A Night of Art and Wine

With these chilly and snowy evenings, going to a wine bar and experiencing a flight or two of wine sounds like a good idea. Staying close to home and tasting a bit of local culture sounds like the perfect way to celebrate the holidays.

Stop by Salt Creek Wine Bar in downtown Brookfield - the selection of wines is formidable - champagnes as well and a great beer list - while you are relaxing and sipping, stroll around the room and look at the cartoon art of Charley Krebs.

From 2004 to the present, Krebs has been the Chicago Jazz Magazine monthly featured cartoonist.  You may also have seen his work in the Suburban Life from 1976 through 2006. 

Having been invited to show his work in many venues, he also will be displaying his work at Peace Center Berwyn IL with an opening reception on Saturday, December 11 at 7:00 p.m. There will be a question and answer session about cartooning including performances by guitarist Paul Halvey and cartoon-inspired poetry by Steve Cesario.

A perfect way to spend the evening in the western suburbs.  Enjoy the holidays!

The Season of Thanks

My Thanksgiving rose

The Season of Thanks




When I was a kid, I had a friend, Judi Hoffmeyer, who was one of six children. I loved being at their house, as there was always something going on. It was a different life in the 50’s and 60’s: we kids were pretty much left alone playing outside all day, coming in for lunch and returning home in the evening when the streetlights went on at night. So, when one of the dads asked us to do something with him, it was a special treat.



Each Thanksgiving morning, Judi’s dad would take Judi and a couple of her siblings and me on a hike in the forest preserve. I was thrilled to be included in the event. We would meet up on a frosty Thanksgiving day, bundled up, walking shoes tied tightly and hike on the trails in the forest near our homes. We crunched the leaves, breathed in the autumn smells – we could burn leaves in those days – we felt the chill on our faces, the sun shining brightly on the trail – it was fall at its most perfect. It is one of my fondest memories of Thanksgivings past – and I am sure Mrs. Hoffmeyer was happy to have everyone out of the house.



As it was then, this time of year is still one of my favorites. I love it when it gets cooler, when the clocks get turned back and the leaves are all gone from the trees. This fall, in particular has been spectacular. The sunsets have been magnificent, casting russet tones all over the neighborhood. The leaves, though not burning any longer in the streets, still hold that special scent of autumn and they still crunch under my feet.



Me? I am so thankful for my family, my husband, my kids….my friends, my dog, my health. Backing up into my driveway the other day, I caught a glimpse of pink out of the corner of my eye. Among the brambles, the rose hips and the yellowed leaves, there it was again - my Thanksgiving rose!

Glitter pumpkins by Lizzie

Happiest Thanksgiving.









Things that Need to Come Back

I hate to sound like my parents, but I often find myself saying, "Yup, things are really different - we used to ....."

I am not alone - Lesley M.M Blume started a website in 2007 where she would talk about things that needed to stage a comeback.  That idea resulted in a book - here are some of the more popular items that people would like to see come back:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/lesley-m-m-blume/25-things-that-need-to-st_b_779005.html#postComment

Bike-beer-burger - Public House Elmhurst

We had the first official frost last night. The outside temp read 30 when I got up this morning. It might be time to hang up the pedals for this year.




But before we do, let me tell you about our latest biking adventure to the Public House in Elmhurst. We like to take advantage of those nice warm summer-like fall days and when we heard the weather forecast a few weeks ago, we put aside the yard work and went for a ride.

The Salt Creek Trail on a beautiful autumn day

We got on the Salt Creek Trail at Brainard – we really do like to leave from home, no driving in the car at all if possible – and went under the tollway, onto Canterberry and crossed York Road, rode in front of the church at 31st and York, then continued on past Butler and the ‘public’ Butler along York Road.



We left home about 2:00 in the afternoon and the days were getting shorter, though we figured we had plenty of time to get to our destination, eat and head back home.



We crossed 22nd at York and rode along Cermak Rd and crossed the tollway. We found ourselves in a very well-maintained forest preserve running right alongside Roosevelt Road. What is amazing is how often we travel these roads and streets by car and here we are just a few feet away from the busy roads surrounded by the beauty of nature. Wildflowers were in abundance – bright lavenders and white flowers lining the path – when you see no electrical or phone wires, it is like you are stepping back in time – right in the midst of the busy, burgeoning suburban Chicago network of roads.



We followed the trail along the creek and came upon Eldridge Park. There was a wedding going on in this lovely setting – photos being taken with nature at its finest in early fall.



We continued on the trail – still Salt Creek Trail to its end. We were on the corner of Madison and Fairview in Elmhurst when the trail stopped. We took Fairview north about 5 blocks and got on the Illinois Prairie Path and followed that trail west about one half mile. Then we found a continuation of Salt Creek Trail. We took that north one block to Wildwood and we traveled through a couple of lovely residential streets and came out on St. Charles Road – right across from the Public House at 683 St. Charles Road. The phone number is (630) 834-8989. ‎

The Public House 633 St. Charles Rd., Elmhurst, IL

Don’t get me wrong: even though my husband studies the maps, there is always a slight (sorry, hon) question as to whether we are really going to find our destination. It is a delight when we do – and he really hasn’t missed yet – I just don’t want you to think that these trips are without a little (a lot?) of angst on my part. And usually the mileage is a little off. By the time we arrived at Public House, my odometer read 7.1 miles, a healthy half journey.



We settled into a booth – a little late for lunch, a little early for dinner. By now, though we had to watch the clock, as we figured dusk set in about 6:15. It was about 4:00 when we ordered.



We had the burgers of course – they were great! We gave them a 2B rating – 1B is bike-able; 2B is better; 3B is best and 4B is bodacious. They were hearty, the bread was very good, very soft and the burgers came with really good fries. Beer was cold, lots of draft beers to choose from.



The bar is large with seating and lots of big TVs for sports viewing – there also are banquet facilities and a large dining room. Plenty of room to spread out, have a party, have a beer with folks at the bar. A comfortable spot – a new discovery for the biking adventure.



The ride home was just as picturesque – on the way home, I was able to enjoy the scenery even more than the ride out. It was getting chillier and dusk was upon us as we came upon the public Butler course on 22nd – see photo of “Sunset on Cermak”.



We made it onto the final stretch of the bike path just as the sun was sinking down into the horizon – a great ride on one of the final days of Indian summer.








Sunset Over Cermak











Saturday in the fall

Walking on a Saturday morning, out early. The temperature is in the lower 40’s, the sun is shining – the air is crisp and it smells like autumn, save of course the smell of burning leaves. I do miss that!




The sounds I hear are rakes scraping against the concrete as the homeowners get their leaves out to the curb; I hear a cheer erupting from the stadium at Nazareth – Saturday morning means frosh, soph or junior varsity – must have been a touchdown or a great interception. The cheer goes on for a while. The wind is blowing slightly, nothing like this past week. Neighbors are out picking up branches and twigs that blew down from the trees.



Taking a walk in the forest preserve, entering the Salt Creek trail with my dog – amazingly all the sounds of the neighborhood, the traffic are all gone. It is so quiet and peaceful right when you reach the bridge. You can hear the water rushing under the bridge, hear the birds, the ducks splashing. We walked a bit into the woods, my dog stopping every second to sniff some new exciting smell. He gets burs caught in his fur, but the trip is worth it.



As we are heading back, my dog stops in his tracks: there not 50 feet in front of us, is a big buck. He stares, we stare, Mitch doesn’t know what to make of this huge – what is it? he thought – it’s not a squirrel, his favorite prey, must be a dog – the buck seemed to bow his head slightly, then walk softly through the leaves and the brush onto his destination.



As we headed back into the neighborhood, there were two forest preserve employees pulling up in the truck. I mentioned that we had just seen a buck.



“Yeah, that is the eight-pointer – we just saw him on 31st.”



The sights, the sounds, the smells of autumn in La Grange Park.

Homecoming

Last Friday, as I was frantically trying to finish an extremely tedious mailing (I have a mailing service - Alpha Omega) someone rang the doorbell.  I figured it was more mail to do.  I reluctantly answered the door as the gentleman was walking away from my front door.  I noticed that he had a camera in his hand.

"Hi - can I help you?"

"Oh," he said, "I used to live in this house and I thought I would drop by and say hello.  The house looks great."

I explained that I was tied up at the moment, otherwise I would certainly invite him in.  He nodded, seemed to understand and said well, thanks anyway. 

I returned to my dining room table, where I was in the process of stuffing and sealing 3,000 envelopes where my husband was working next to me, helping me.  I briefly told him of my conversation and he said, "You should let him in."   He had good reason to say what he did:  when returning to his grandfather's house in Wheaton with the original plans, upon knocking on the door, hoping to be invited in, the owner said, "Thanks," took the plans and shut the door.    So, I thought to myself, he's right.  I should invite them in.

I walked to the front door and was able to catch the man and his wife just as they were getting back into their car.

"Folks, if you would like to come in......" I yelled from the front porch.

His face lit up - they came back up onto the porch and walked in the front door.  He looked around.

I gave them the tour - the entire house.  He told me where he kept his toys (in the bottom drawer of the breakfront in the dining room - his brother kept his toys in the next drawer up) - how they used to hide in the closet beneath the attic stairs that is in the bathroom.  He recalled having taken baths in the tub and where the window was - with a slanted roof.  The tub is still here, original to the house - it is stamped on the bottom 'December 19, 1908' -

As the couple walked through the house, the man's love of his former home was evident.  Though the house has changed a lot through the years, the bones are still the same.

Bob Bowman and his wife Nancy were in town from California for his 50th high school reunion from Lyons Township High School.  - Class of 1960.  Bob Bowman and his family lived here from 1946 until the mid 1950's.  Bowman was four years old at the time and the family moved when he was fourteen years old .  This house is still important to him.

"You know," he said as he was walking down the porch steps, "we moved close to here when I was a freshman in high school - just a few blocks away.  But that was just a house - this always was home to me."

A Trip to Platteville: Summer of 1985

It was the summer of 1985. As usual, my stepson Andy would be visiting for the month of July – he was 15 and I was always looking for interesting and new things to do when he came to town.




I read that the Chicago Bears were having their summer camp at Platteville, WI. That sounded like a fun thing to do. My son, Sam was 3 that summer and my brother, Rob was living at home with our folks – time for a road trip.



Rob was supposed to find out when practice started, if we could get in, where it was exactly – I picked him up early on a beautiful July day and he got in the car and said:



“Good news, bad news – the bad news is that practice starts tomorrow. The good news is it’s a good day for a drive.”



I figured he was right – once we got the trip in motion, might at well follow through. So, we hit the road.



And it was FAR to Platteville. I am thinking to myself, “I can’t believe people do this,” as I was barreling down the highway.



We arrived at last at University of Wisconsin, Platteville campus. It was pretty deserted, except for a couple of guys sweeping the grounds outside the stadium. About 17 years later, my son would play on this field for Augustana College.



“Hey, how you doing? Nothing much going on today – practice starts tomorrow. There are only a couple guys in there throwing the ball around.”



Despite the large orange signs that said “Authorized Bear Personnel Only” I was not deterred. I told the group that if anyone stopped us, we could just say Sam had to go to the bathroom.



We walked into the stadium and found that the custodians were right: there were only two lone guys throwing the ball around. Those two guys, however, were Jim McMahon and Kenny Margerum.



My brother played ball at Madison a few years before this, so he went out for a couple passes from McMahon. We talked a bit, laughed about the season coming up and I finally got up my nerve to ask if I could take a picture of them with my little guy.



Sam was not the friendliest of toddlers: if someone would say hello to him at the Jewel where we shopped regularly, he would get mad and demand “Who is that? Why is he saying hello to me? I don’t know him.” So, I was a little concerned about how he would take to Jim and Ken.



The two players were great with my son – talked to him asked him how he was doing, laughing – I took what I hoped was a great photo – who knew? This was 1985, no digital cameras.



As it turned out, the photo was great. I sent it to both McMahon and Margerum with a note saying “Here is a photo of the next Superbowl quarterback and wide receiver plus a future All-American.” I never heard anything in return, but didn’t really expect to.



Since we had been in Platteville, and Superbowl Sunday was to be on my son’s 4th birthday, I clipped every single article throughout the season, taped every game (I have to get those converted from VHS tape!) and kept every Royko, Bob Greene, anything from the year.



We all know what happened on January 26, 1986. The Monsters of the Midway had their way and took New England to task to the score of 46-10. It was a fabulous year, one that is still talked about as possibly the greatest championship ever.



The photo has been hanging in my laundry room/office since that summer. I had it in the back of my mind that I would have McMahon sign it one day. (I would love to have Margerum sign it too) I would read about his appearances, most were golf-related and I am not a golfer – others were charity events and I didn’t want to pay $250 for a place at a table among other people seeking his attention. I did read that he had his 50th birthday party at a club in Chicago recently and if you gave $50 for his charity, you could get in. I seriously thought about going downtown for that, but decided against it – again, the crowds would probably have been too great to catch a few moments of his time.



Then last week I read that Jim McMahon was to be at Binny’s in Highland Park and would autograph a photo or some other memorabilia for the first 250 people in line. Here’s my chance.



My husband drove to Highland Park – we arrived early. The session was to be from noon to 2 p.m. last Sunday, the 26th. We got there at 10:00 a.m. as the doors were opening and I was number 16.



Most of the people in line were autograph hounds – seekers – getting autographs for profit. I had the real thing – a real photo taken 25 years ago.



When it was my turn at the table, I showed him the photo and said, “I have been waiting 25 years for you to sign this.”



He took the picture in his hands, said, “Oh, my God – that takes me back.” I rambled on about how it was my son in the picture and that it was his fourth birthday when we won Super Bowl – Jim then asked what my son’s name is – I said, “Sammy” –



And now that photo is back hanging in my laundry room – a little more complete.

Fall Rummage Sale

It's time for The Village Church Fall rummage sale.


The Village Church of La Grange Park will hold its Fall Rummage Sale on Friday 10/1 and Saturday 10/2.The pre-sale will be Friday from 6:30-8:30pm and has an admission price of $5.00. The rummage sale on Saturday has no admission charge and will be open from 9:00-3:00pm. There will be a $4.00 "bag sale" at 2pm. Rummage donations of clean, usable items will be accepted at the September 27th through September 30th. The church is located at 1150 Meadowcrest Road. 708-354-0900.

Make sure and stop by to check out great bargains!  Friday and Saturday October 1 and 2.

Bears vs. Cowboys 9-19-2010

Bears beat Cowboys 27-20. We traveled to Dallas last weekend for the game. When we left home on Friday morning, the temperature was a fall-like 46 degrees – lovely, crisp.




We arrived in Dallas to hot, very hot sun and temps – 95 degrees. We got into our rental car and went to the condo that we had rented for the weekend through vrbo.com – vacation rental by owner. The owner met us there; it was a great spot only a few (hot) blocks from the stadium. We settled in and decided to get the lay of the land.



We walked over to Cowboys Stadium. From the outside, it looks like a giant space ship landed right in the middle of the concrete city of Arlington TX. In the evening, from the rooftop deck of the condo, we could see the top of the space ship – eerily emitting lights from the underside.

The condo was well-located, as we were able to walk to dinner. It was still hot.



On Saturday, family arrived from Austin – my husband’s son, his wife and our two grandkids. When we went out to dinner that night at a local barbeque place, and it was still 94 at 8:00 p.m. I kept wondering how in the world we were going to sit through a 3-1/2 hour football game in that heat – Bears fan or no fan, I am a heat wimp.



Sunday dawned sunny and – you guessed it – hot. We donned our Bears shirts and headed over to the venue. We go there at 10:45 for a noon kick-off and the place was already swarming with people – lots of Bear fans tailgating in the parking lot.

We stood outside in awe for a few minutes, and then ventured inside. It’s the first time I have been to an indoor football game – doesn’t seem like real football to me, a died-in-the-wool, football should be played in cold weather fan – but it was AIR CONDITIONED.



Originally estimated to cost $650 million, the actual construction cost was $1.3 billion. To help Jerry Jones cover the cost of the stadium, Arlington voters approved the increase of the city’s sales tax by 0.5 percent, the hotel occupancy tax by 2 percent and the car rental tax by 5 percent. The City of Arlington provided over $325 million in bonds as funding and Jones covered all cost overruns. Also, the National Football League provided the Cowboys with an additional $150 million, per the policy of giving teams a lump sum of money for stadium financing. (source: Wikipedia).



The stadium has yet to sell naming rights, so it is referred to as ‘Jerryworld’ among other nicknames. To ensure you don’t miss a play, there are over 3,000 Sony LCD displays throughout the stadium – it really does defy description. Suffice it to say that you have to force yourself to watch the field, as this gigantic screen (about 60 yards long!) is right in front of you, huge Cowboy faces taunting the other team with such things as “Hey, no one beats us in our house.” And noisy – there is a constant din and resembles the atmosphere of a casino.



I was wondering if the players spit indoors – they do.




We found our seats, at the 50-yard line in the 400 section – quite a ways up – and the seats were padded. Two hot dogs, two beers and a small bag of chips was $38.

The national anthem was performed by Jay ‘the voice’ Perez. We all agreed that it was one of the best renditions we had ever heard. When he returned home, my stepson emailed Mr. Perez and much to his delight, he received an answer thanking him for his email. Perez is a huge tejano music star.

…and it was a great game. A really good game – no interceptions for our side. There was a lot of action – and no mistakes. There were quite a few Bears fans in the crowd – and you could often hear the familiar chant of ‘GO BEARS.’ Interestingly, at the start of the game, every time the Cowboys made a first down, the announcer very emphatically stated, “and that’s a Dallas FIRST-T-T DOWN.” As the game went on into the fourth quarter and looked like things were going our way, he wasn’t quite so enthusiastic and was rather stating that Dallas had made a first down in a rather bored monotone.



Knowing that even with one minute and a few seconds to go with the good guys ahead by 7, a seasoned Bears fan knows we don’t celebrate till the fat lady sings. The on-side kick went our way, we hung onto the ball and we are now 2-0 and oh, yeah, the Cowboys are 0-2. Lots of Cowboy fans left the venue, not many Bears fans left early. We won – and it was a glorious win.



We have gone to away games for the past four years – this is the first time I was able to wear my Bears shirt home on the plane.  And is that shirt cool or what - a silk screen of da coach.  Now onto Monday night against Green Bay. Go Bears Go!

On Tap

I walked into the dining room the other night and spied my husband with the bike path map spread out on the table, gazing intently at the trails.  “Uh, oh,” I thought to myself, “He must be planning some big trip.” 

“I have a good trip planned out for us,” he said cheerfully.

I, recently indoctrinated into the biking routine, was skeptical.

“We could drive to Wheaton and park the car and go to Warrenville.”

To me, Warrenville sounds like it is on the other side of the earth.  I had never been there, was only slightly familiar with the town because my son played high school football at Lyons Township in La Grange and we played Wheaton-Warrenville High School.  I know where Wheaton is, how far can Warrenville be?

As it turned out, it was pretty far.  But we had a destination in mind:  Two Brothers Brewery located in none other than Warrenville.

We like to drink indigenous beers.  When in Wisconsin, we look for micro-breweries in that state and go to liquor stores that stock those special brews.  In Illinois, the choice is smaller, but interesting nonetheless.  We also like the stories behind these breweries and if we can bike, eat and drink some beer, it’s a perfect day.

We loaded the bikes onto the car and headed out west.  We hopped on the Illinois Prairie Path in Wheaton.  It is well-maintained and easy to navigate.  It was a nice, cool sunny day and we were looking forward to our adventure to Two Brothers.

I have an odometer on my bike and though my husband figured “round trip about 20 miles,” we were not even AT our destination and we had already clocked 14 miles.  I fiddled with the controls on the Cat thinking that maybe I had a different setting – it read 140 – I thought maybe it was the time….but it was the mileage.

Great, I thought – I often yell from behind him – “Where ARE we?”

We were in the Blackwell County Forest Preserve, admittedly very pretty with lakes, quiet trails and lovely vegetation – but definitely on the wrong path.  We had mistakenly taken a branch of the DuPage River Trail.  We backtracked and got onto the original charted course:  The Fermi Lab Trail. 

We crossed Route 59, went about 4 blocks and then headed south on some residential streets through a schoolyard and a park to the edge of a light industrial park.  We had the address of Two Brothers Brewery, but it didn’t appear that there would be a brewery on this street.  Pedaling further down the road, we came upon a truck that indeed said “Two Brothers” – we arrived.

I had read that Chef Tommy at the Tap House was fantastic and I have to say, the fare does not resemble what we think of as bar food in any way. We both had fish tacos that were out of this world.  Draft beers are $4 and $5 and we each enjoyed two beers, different brews.  In addition to their own brews, they carry a very impressive array of other beers and also have a guest draft beer.  We sat outside at an umbrella table in very quiet surroundings.   The beer was cold, the food was yummy, and the breeze was warm…it was so relaxing…

…until we had to climb onto our bikes again.  We chatted with a couple who had also just finished eating – they were driving a red van – and I was hoping they would take pity upon us and drive us back to Wheaton.  No such luck – we began our return journey. 

We made it back to downtown Wheaton.  It was a Friday, and there was a classic car show in town.  We looked around a little, I thought I was going to drop right there in the street, but somehow made it back to the car.  Our 20-miler turned into a little longer than expected – should have had another beer!

Check hours and directions at the website www.twobrotherstaphouse.com/ 

Two Brothers Tap House
30W315 Calumet Ave.
Warrenville, IL  60555
630-393-BEER

The Stanley Cup

The Stanley Cup made a trip to La Grange Park - ! It was a blast. Pawel Prylinski, the massage therapist for the Chicago Blackhawks, walked into Village Hall on Tuesday evening and told Jim Discipio, Village President, that it was his day to have the cup on Friday, September 10 and did the village want to do something about it?

Jim quickly corralled his resources - and Julia Cedillo quickly put together a flyer and posted it on the e-community briefs. The staff also hung flyers at the Jewel, the library and some other spots in town. Though short notice, the word spread fast and there were more than 600 people in line - some as early as 11:00 am for the 4:00 p.m. showing. The line wound all the way around the front of Village Hall on Catherine to Ashland and down about 2-3 blocks.

Pawel proudly carrying in the Stanley Cup

The Cup, its Hall of Fame handler, Mike and our resident Pawel arrived by limo about 5:10 after getting stuck in traffic. The Cup was carried in by Pawel with police officers forming a lane for him to come in. All fans had a chance to walk by the cup, some got their pictures taken with Stanley, others touched and kissed the trophy. An historic day in La Grange Park.

Me with the Cup!

the limo driver having a ball

Rocktoberfest

You have probably seen the sign on the corner of La Grange Road and Ogden - Rocktoberfest - and may have also received an invitation mailing. Rocktoberfest will be held Saturday, September 18 at Gordon Park located at La Grange Rd and Ogden Ave.  The event runs from 5:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. 

Rocktoberfest is a great way to celebrate fall with the family and also benefit our community.  For a general admission price of only $10, you can enjoy an evening of brats, beer, bands and bags.  A local band rockin' classic covers, The Bad Dads will perform from 5-6:30 pm and Infinity, the ultimate 80's rock and Journey tribute band will play from 7:30 - 10:30 p.m.

The VIP Package, selling for $50, includes VIP tent; general admission; plated dinner by Events by Tommy R's; 2 drink tickets; exclusive bartenders; private potties and rock star parking.  There are only 500 VIP packages available.  There will also be an Edward Jones Bags Tournament in which there will be 24 teams of 2 competing to win a $100 cash prize.  Entrance fee is $25 per team.  Raffle tickets also will be sold for $5 each or 5/$20. 


Partnering with the Women's Auxiliary of Community Nurse is the Park District of La Grange.  Various other sponsors include Adventist La Grange Memorial Hospital; Community Bank of Western Springs; Township of Lyons; First National Bank of La Grange; Brookfield Financial Plans, Inc.; La Grange Business Association; Prime Property Partners; Allan E Power Plumbing; Chariot Automotive; Katrina Ladyga, Prime Property Partners Real Estate; Horizon Wealth Management, LLC; ais; AlphaGraphics; Bannerville USA; Big Top Tents; Chicago Communications LLC; and the Doings.

Rocktoberfest benefits Community Nurse Health Association. Since 1921, Community Nurse has provided comprehensive, quality health care and supportive services to lower income and uninsured residents of the western suburbs of Chicago. The organization benefits individuals who have difficulty accessing health care due a myriad of reasons. Staff consists of  RNs, NPs and volunteers MDs. The vision of the Community Nurse is ahealthy and productive community where all residents have access to quality healthcare.

The service area encompasses the 14 western suburbs of: Brookfield, Burr Ridge, Countryside, Hinsdale, Hodgkins, Indian Head Park, LaGrange, LaGrange Highlands, LaGrange Park, Lyons, McCook, Westchester, Willow Springs and Western Springs.


There was at one time a "community nurse."  She was situated in an office on the second floor of a building in downtown La Grange.  Residents would visit her when they could not see the doctor.  In 1921, the Community Nurse Health Association was founded.  Today, the organization provides an invaluable service to our communities.

So, c'mon out to a neighborhood fest and benefit a neighborhood association as well!

therocktoberfest.com

Patch.com

Patch.com is an on-line newspaper dedicated to local news.  Here in La Grange/La Grange Park, we have an edition of Patch - La Grange Patch. 

Patch is a community newspaper - it is run by a group of professional local journalists who report on stories, events and people with the village.  The local management staff is supported by the team in New York City.

You will see Patch around town, and if you take a look at their home page, you will see that all of the up-to-the minute news are right at your fingertips.  You will find me on their pages bringing human interest stories to La Grange Patch.  Patch also is very interested in having people report on stories, give opinions, post photos and announcements, and add events to the community calendar. 

See you on Patch!
http://lagrangepatch.com/

Fall is in the air

I opened the windows last night to let that wonderful Canadian air breeze into the bedroom. 

My brother tells me that I am the only person he knows that actually likes cold weather - I know this can't be true, there are many of us who prefer to be able to put another piece of clothing on to get warm, rather than shedding everything we have on to the barest minimum and still be hot.

My cute summer jackets and my soft, comfy sweatshirts never  made it off their hangers this summer.  My husband continually says to me, "You are a bit clammy."  NO KIDDING.  I feel like I have been in a seaweed wrap in a sauna all summer  - I even googled 'excessive sweating' because I thought I had contracted a new, rare sweating disease.  I don't need a weather page to tell me that the temperature in the 80's matches the temperature humidity index - my pores give me away.

But this morning.....my ring was slipping around on my finger, unlike the past couple of months when my fingers felt like sausages; I felt like I could breathe - everyone seems to be in a better mood. Great sleeping weather.    I did put on one of my (lightweight) hoodies and it was perfect. 

Snow will be here before we know it!

Burger, beer, bike

Buying bicycles a few years ago has opened up a new world for me. My husband had been an avid bike rider in the 70’s and 80’s putting on hundreds of miles in the Midwest and also had a couple solo bike trips in Ireland.




It was my idea to get bikes. I read an article about biking in middle age and how it makes you feel like a young kid again – wind blowing in your hair, that sense of freedom and independence that you get from powering on your own.



Since I hadn’t been on a bike for 15 years, I figured we were on maybe a 20-minute ride through the neighborhood. We took the Salt Creek Trail first from Brainard to Wolf Rd – I was fine – then we crossed Wolf, went through the picnic grounds, then behind Meadow Lark Golf Course and under the tollway. I was getting worried. We then pedaled down Canterberry Lane onto York Road and we were at 31st and York when he posed the leading suggestion – ‘let’s just see where this goes…..’



We crossed 31st, went along the trail that goes in front of the soccer fields, by the Oakbrook Public Library, picked up the trail again and went through the parking lot of the Oak Brook Bath & Tennis, following around to McDonald’s headquarters – a really lovely bike ride.



Since that maiden voyage, we have biked many places and many miles. Now, before we head out, we take a look at the Illinois Bike Path map and figure out not only where to go, but a route that is easily accessible to a neighborhood watering hole.



One of our favorite destinations for lunch or dinner without getting in the car is the York Tavern on York Road just north of Ogden. It’s an easy bike ride from La Grange Park.



Starting at Brainard on the Salt Creek Trail, you can take the route as I described above and instead of going north to 31st, you can stay on the trail on York Rd. If you stay on York, you do have to cross the street to get on the trail rather than riding on the road.



A more interesting route is crossing York Rd at Canterberry, and then taking the trail to Robin Hood Ranch, a pristine and quiet subdivision. There is a path into Fullersburg Woods. If you take that path south, you are practically at the back entrance of the York.



The York Tavern was built in 1843 by Benjamin Fuller and still stands in its original location north of the Salt Creek Bridge on the west side of York Road. It is believed that the York is the oldest continuously operating privately owned eating and drinking spot in DuPage County. Should you pedal over to the York, you will find it to be a great spot to re-fuel and rest a bit. The burgers are great as are many other sandwich offerings. Beer is ice cold, served in frosty mugs and the selection both on tap and in bottles is substantial. There is something for everyone – even a nice wine list.

The place is comfortable – getting back on the Salt Creek Bike Trail to home is only about 25 minutes. That’s about 500 calories burned to and from the York – takes a substantial bite out of that burger and beer. For further information, a complete history, menu and hours of operations, check out their website at http://www.yorktavernoakbrook.com./

Happy New Year

A calm has transcended upon the neighborhood.  There is a lot of commotion around 8:00 in the morning, then it is dead quiet.  The start of the school year, the start of the new year for me.

As long as I can remember, my year has started with September.  It is time to return to structure, to schedules.  The days are getting shorter, the light looks just a bit different during the day and the moon is so bright in the early evening sky.  Sitting on the porch in the evening now is so different than in June when the anticipation of the summer awaits....now it is time to re-group, evaluate, get out the 'cold weather' recipes - time for change.  Time to reflect, letting the calm wash over me.

Living in the Midwest gives me an appreciation of the weather.  This summer has been hell-ish to say the least.  I know, I know - wait till January.  But me, I love the cold - and I love the autumn with the crunchy, crisp days and the spring with the pastel colors popping out.

Welcome, autumn - maybe the Bears will provide some real entertainment this year!

LuEllen Joy Giera

The Salt Creek Wine Bar of Brookfield, IL

is pleased to welcome award winning artist LuEllen Joy Giera (of Lagrange Park) in a

Solo Fine Art Collage Show during the month of August 2010

"The Periodic Journal - Collage ReDux"

This show is a compilation of images from magazines and other periodics journals assembled into collages on small canvases. This project took over four months to complete. These 'boxes' are one of the most colorful and enjoyable collection of collages she has creted so far. LuEllen creates works in collage, pastels, photography, pen & ink and watercolor and acrylics. She uses her photography in collages and as studies. LuEllen often combines many types of media and frequently experiments with different techniques.



Her art has been shown extensively in solo and group (juried and non-juried) shows in museums, brick & mortar galleries and some virtual galleries. She has cretaed commissioned work for private collections throughout the United States, Mexico and Europe. She earned her Certificate in Drawing from the School of the Art Institute in 2005.

LuEllen founded an international society called Planet Collage (est. 9-2005) and co-founded the Midwest Collage Society. She curates a monthly international postcard collage exchange (est. 4-2006) and a periodic international candy tin exchange (est. 3-2007). She also curates periodic group shows for the members of planetcollage.com. LuEllen co-facilitates “Her Group” which is sponsored by Woman Made Gallery in Chicago, Illinois. She teaches art classes and seminars on a regular basis.



Salt Creek Wine Bar is located at 8900 Fairview Ave - Brookfield, IL 60513 - 708-387-2432
http://www.saltcreekwinebar.com/


Please view LuEllen's web page at http://www.planetcollage.com/

A Week of Saturdays

Why is it that the only time we see our own beloved city is when we have out-of-town guests?  There is so much to see and do and Chicago continues to enchant, amuse and entertain.

My stepson and his family from Tulsa came into town on a Thursday.  They bought Explorer passes - these are passes that can be loaded with the venues and events that you specifically want to see.  Available on line, they offer a discount off the regular admission price.  You may visit each of the venues once in a 30-day time period - it's a great bargain.  www.smartdestinations.com/chicago

The four of them were off and running to see the Art Institute, Shedd Aquarium, Legoland, Museum of Science and Industry and the Skydeck at Sears/Willis Tower.  They also had a wedding to attend on one of the days, so they fit all of that in along with a Cubs game (the Sunday game that they lost to St Louis), a trip to the beach and a trip to Centennial Beach in Naperville where they also had lunch with family. 

We had charge of the kids the day of the wedding - ages 12 and 10.  We met the group downtown and had a hot dog at Millenium Park while we watched the kids run and jump with glee in the fountain.  We then took our charges to see 'The Emperor's New Clothes' at Shakespeare Theatre on Navy Pier.  It is a delightful show - the theatre itself does not have a bad seat and everyone of all ages can enjoy this lively and vibrant performance.

Upon exiting the show, we discovered the USS Hollyhock, a Coast Guard buoy tender ship that was resting at Navy Pier.  The crew were giving on-board tours, so we climbed aboard for a tour of a real Great Lakes ship - then onto another Chicago icon, Uno's for pizza.  At 4:30 the wait was still a half hour and when asked if we wanted outside or inside, we promptly responded with 'inside' as it was that terrible hot day of the big rain - the temperature humidity index hit 104.

They left on Wednesday morning and on the ride back to Tulsa, stopped in Springfield to see the Lincoln Museum.  It was a great trip!

On Wednesday night, my husband's son and his family came for a 4-day visit.  The tour started with a trip to Twin Anchors for the best ribs in the world. 

We purchased Go Cards on line (www.smartdestinations.com/chicago) and found that they include absolutely everything you would want to do in Chicago.  You can purchase either a one-day or multiple day pass.  Included was the trolley and/or double decker tour bus.  After spending the first afternoon at the Shedd, we jumped on a double decker and we all learned a lot about our city that we didn't know before that ride.  The end of the tour is Sears/Willis and we went up to the skydeck. 

Through Goldstar.com (http://www.goldstar.com/) I was able to get half price tickets to the Chicago White Sox.  The Sox had Mullet night and Kid Rock joined some other Mullet Heads in a tour around the park before the game.  We were hoping he would sing the national anthem, but he had to get to Soldier Field to open for Bon Jovi.

Prior to the game, we went to the Museum of Science and Industry and took the on-board tour of the submarine.  It is truly a sight to see.  The U-505 has undergone a 37 million dollar restoration and looks beautiful.  Though the tour costs an additional $8, it is well worth it.  There are retired Navy personnel who serve as docents making the experience all the more authentic.  Having toured the sub many times as a kid when it was outside the museum, I asked about the hatches, as it was easy to climb through them.  The guide told me that as soon as the donor members could not climb thru the old circular hatches, they opened them up. 

They left Sunday - now we can honestly say that we have had a vacation - in our own fair city, Chicago. 

Shopping at home

A while ago, while shopping at Vintage Charm on the west end of downtown La Grange, I picked up a flyer entitled 'the 3/50 project.'  It was of interest to me because its tag line was 'Save your local economy - three stores at a time.'

The 3/50 project involves an individual stopping at three of the independent businesses you would miss if they were not there.  The 50 stands for spending $50 in your favorites haunts.  Just think of the impact of this project is just one half of the population did that.

As recently featured in the Suburban Life, Teri Tabor, formerly of La Grange Park, incorporates this philosophy into her business in Riverside.  Having done hair in her home for many years, Tabor opened a salon in downtown Riverside sic and a half years ago -  Salon D'Amore located at 37 E Burlington St.  When she was asked to speak at the Riverside Junior Women's Charity group, Tabor was trying to encourage people to shop locally. 

"I came up with a shopping bag program:  'Love Riverside, Shop Riverside.'  I wanted to give Riverside businesses a chance.  Even if you don't come into my salon to get your hair done, you might come in for a manicure.  You might not do all of your grocery shopping at Riverside Foods, but you can run in and try their lunchmeat or cheese." 

The bags are a burlap and bright yellow design and sell for $5 each - clearly a bargain, as each bag includes ten coupons giving discounts and free items with purchase at some of the businesses in Riverside. 

I have long been a proponent of shopping locally.  Individuals with families own our local establishments - not huge conglomerates who are trying to improve their bottom line.  According to the 3/50 project, for every $100 spent in independently owned stores, $68 returns to the community through taxes, payroll and other expenditures.  If you spend that in a national chain, only $43 remains here.  Spend it online and nothing comes home.

Take a tour of our local businesses - both La Grange and La Grange Park.  Pick up a little something.  That is what will keep our businesses around. 

For more information on the 3/50 project, visit the350project.net

conduit

So far, I have sent about 3500 postcards to residents in La Grange Park to let them know about my blog.  It seems that there is more and more interest as time goes by - there is so little in the way of real local news that I think we all like to read about what our neighbors are doing and what is happening in our village.

This last postcard mailing resulted in some people in search of events:

1) - Does anyone know of a singles group or is anyone interested in starting one?

2)  - A senior bicycle rider called me and told me that his biking partner can no longer bike - he was wondering if anyone knew of a senior biking group in the area?  I suggested that he call the Wheel Thing downtown La Grange or maybe start one.  Any ideas?

I will post responses here. 

Summertime

I recently participated in one of the focus groups for La Grange Park Public Library.  We were a group of five; four women and one man.  We each lead different lives, therefore use the library for different things.  Ages ranged from 30's to 60's, so there were some preconceived notions about the library - a throwback to when we were kids.


Me, I grew up in Des Plaines where our library was located in the basement of the police station.  Apparently, the collection of books was relatively small, as we could check out only four books at a time.  There were not a great deal of extra programs offered, though in the summer, there was the summer reading club - a participant had to read ten books in order to attend a party at the end of summer.  Also, I took a babysitting clinic when I was in fourth grade.


Libraries and their functions have changed a thousand fold since the 60's.  There are so many programs and things available at La Grange Park Public Library that there is a brochure on the table by the staircase to spread the word.  The brochure is entitled 'Enriching Lives in La Grange Park.' I believe our local library does enrich our lives.


Now with summer in full swing, one of the best things to know about our library is that we are part of the Museum Adventure Pass Program.  Your library card will let you check out local museums at no cost - to name a few -  Brookfield Zoo, Cantigny Park, Chicago Botanic Garden, Morton Arboretum, Bronzeville Children's Museum, Graue Mill, KidsWork Children's Museum, Kohl Children's Museum, Lake County Discovery Museum, National Hellenic Museum, Oriental Institute Museum, St. Charles Heritage Museum and The Children's Museum in Oak Lawn.  We did check out a week's pass in November for Brookfield Zoo when we had out-of-town guests and it's a great deal - ! 


And, remember - the summer is like the weekend:  June is Friday, oh, I have lots of time to do things, I can just relax and enjoy; July is Saturday - didn't do much yesterday, I have to get it in gear today, the time is slipping away; and finally, August is Sunday - YIKES it's Sunday already and I have done nothing.  Don't let that happen to you - check out a pass at our library!


http://www.lplibrary.org/

Where is he?

My husband disappears for hours at a time. This is a relatively new behavior and a noticeable one, as we both work at home and see one another all day long.

Where is he?

Out walking.

His company Kone, Inc., has issued pedometers to employees that wanted them. It is part of the Walkingspree USB Pedometer & Tracking program. Walkingspree is an innovative corporate wellness program that engages the participants, is fun and actually improves morale while promoting a little friendly competition.

He merely puts the pedometer on in the morning, removes it at night and downloads his steps online. Each walker has a name, some are aliases (like my husband's which I will not divulge). At first my husband was dogging it, trying to slip the pedometer to me when I go for my dog walk and my personal walk in the morning. I reneged, saying that was cheating and wasn't he interested to really see how he could do?

While in Texas recently, he even tried to give our granddaughter the device while she was running around a climbing park. We talked him out of it - an eight-year old cheating for you?

Suddenly even he became interested in the program. Especially when he realized that he could actually walk more than some guys who are younger than he is. That coupled with the fact that I was out of town for a couple of days got him really fired up and he started truly walking....and walking.

When a participant walks 300,000 steps, he or she is entered into a raffle. Prizes range from a day off with pay (nice) to a year's worth of health insurance - ! What incentive.

All employees have something in common: walking. Conversations include how many steps did you do? Is he a marathoner or what? Everyone that is participating is buzzing about it. One of the women discovered that even though the pedometer does not register immediately in her spinning class, it races to catch up to give her a proper reading after a few moments.

During the first serious week (i.e., no cheating) he was in the top 10. Last week, he was #6 - oops, maybe I gave up his identity.

Last Sunday, we took a little stroll: from our house through the Bethlehem Woods neighborhood, admired the Grotto, crossed Ogden Avenue, went to the entrance of Bemis Woods on the north side of Ogden, reminisced about the toboggan slide, walked the path back to our place. 9,000 steps = 4.2 miles.

Walk on!

Special Paint

I grew up in Des Plaines and I have a lot of friends who still live in the northwest suburbs. When I heard that Lee DeWyze, currently one of the top 5 on American Idol hails from Mt. Prospect, I figured someone I know knows him.

My phone rang early one morning last week - 7:00 a.m. It was my friend and former co-worker Denise. Though we talk only once every six months and see each other maybe once a year, there is no need for identification.

"Laur, I got a great story for you."

"Hey, Den - what's up?"

Denise is a very fun, fun-loving, gregarious person and usually filled with good stories. She told me that she had been painting her house. Denise lives in Palatine and has been going to a paint store near her home for many years. It is still family-owned, still has coffee and cookies for its customers. Through the past couple of months, she bought a few gallons of paint. Each time, a nice young man waited on her. They got to talking and he asked her to come and see him sing.

Denise recounts the story:

"I'm thinkin - yeah, right, hard rock - so I say to him, okay, I'll do that." I didn't go.

"Then I bought a very expensive paint for my bathroom, it was called spa paint. I did not like the color and so decided I would go back to the store and see if I could donate it. I approached my young friend and asked about the possibility of a donation.

"He said, 'Oh, I can fix it for you - no problem. This will be a one-time, no charge thing.' He made up a little receipt and gave it to me. Something made me keep his note. By this time, we were pretty good buds and he was such a nice kid - very kind. He again mentioned his singing gig and said, 'Hey, you didn't come to see me.' I replied yeah, I know, I will try to make it. I had no intention of going to see him, thinking it was not my type of music.

"Shortly after this, I was walking through the living room, American Idol on the TV. I hadn't been paying much attention, just had it on for background noise. I looked over and whom do I see?"

Lee DeWyze - !

Denise has been doing her fair share to ensure he stays on the show - everyone is texting her after they text their vote. There is a blues bar in Mt Prospect who is selling 'vote for Lee' shirts and giving all of the money to charity. It is a great family event.

Denise says that though the judges say he is 'shy' she sees it differently: "Lee is a very, very nice caring kid - kind and humble."

After last night's show, Lee is still 'safe.' - as Denise says, we didn't get the Olympics, maybe we'll have the American Idol.

Hollywood in La Grange Park

Bob Andorka and his sons were eating lunch one Saturday when they noticed two mini buses pull up to their home. About 16 people holding clipboards got out and were looking around, gesturing and talking. The men thought it was part of the census.



Bob did quip however, "Maybe they are scouting for a movie."


Turns out that Bob was right: it was a crew from Beleaguered Castle Film Productions, Inc. of Chicago. After having looked at a few locations in the immediate area, they decided that the Andorka's driveway was perfect for their scene. They talked about what they were thinking of doing, said the insurance information and contracts would be on the way soon and were gone.



"As fast as they were here, they were gone again," says Bob.




In speaking with Natasha Parker, assistant location manager, she indicated that the crew liked the curve of the street. They had been looking around the quarry, but needed a more residential feel to the scene and after driving through La Grange Park, they decided on the Andorkas.







The production company distributed a memo to all households on the 400 block of Waiola stating that the film is called Source Code starring Jake Gyllenhaal, Michelle Monaghan and Vera Farmiga. The scene that was to be filmed on Waiola was that of a character named Derek who is driving through various parts of the city trying to find a short route to downtown Chicago. The company made arrangements with the La Grange Park Police and the schools in anticipation of the street being closed off for filming. The crew also removed the street signs and cleaned the street as well.

The day arrived - Thursday, April 8.

Everyone forgot about it being garbage day - ! The bins were moved to the backs of the yards for the shoot.

Bonnie Andorka took the day off from work so as not to miss anything. Kate Andorka, currently a student at Illinois State University, had just returned from a semester abroad the night before. Moe, the loyal yellow lab, was only too happy to greet everyone that came into the door. Neighborhood kids came to see the action and their parents were just as delighted that their block was a star.

And it was non-stop activity for the afternoon. The actors and actress who were playing the family arrived about noon. Spo was playing the dad, Laura Atwood was playing the mom and Spo's two sons, Brandon and Logan were the boys in the family. They filled us in on the workings of being in a movie, how you are picked, other things they have starred in and their other jobs.

Stunt man Rick LeFevour arrived to grand fanfare - he performed many stunts in 'The Dark Knight" and kept all of the kids in thrall telling them how he does the stunts, what he needs to suit up, how the cars are padded - he assured us that his mother is not at all surprised with his career of choice - he always was the daredevil.

LeFevour could not have been more gracious - he talked with the kids for about an hour, signing autographs for them all. LeFevour is the guy driving the van down the street.

Left: photo of LeFevour with Kate on his right, Bonnie two to his left and the kids from the neighborhood.

Wardrobe arrived just before the shoot to go over the costumes. The actors bring their own clothing and wardrobe goes through the items to determine which is best suited for the scene. Cameras were set up, directors chairs were in place and it was time for the shoot.

The scene that stars our fair village is this: A white van comes south on Waiola and the family jumps into their Jeep Cherokee that is parked in Andorka's driveway. The scene will play in about 30-45 seconds and we were all there for about 4 hours!

Bonnie Andorka will probably receive a special mention from this crew: she was most gracious, opening her home to all the cast and crew. It was a nippy April day and Bonnie made real hot chocolate (with milk!) for everyone. She received a cap with 'Source Code' on it for her warm welcome from the producer. She assured them all that is was 'midwestern hospitality' but I am sure she will long be remembered by everyone that was in attendance that day.

The film is scheduled for release in 2011.

Ladies Nite Out

There is nothing quite like walking into a store and breathing in all of the new colors of the season. Everyone needs a little pick-me-up this time of year - we need a change, we need to get out, we need to add some color both to our wardrobes and to our look.

A perfect remedy to soothe the soul, add some springtime and spend time with your girlfriends is Ladies Nite Out, being held on Friday, April 9 from 2:00 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.

With all the excitement of the coming spring, here is a really fun event to mark on your calendar. A delightful evening hosted by our very own local businesses; Linnea Jewelers and Studio 180! Plan on attending Friday April 9th from 2:00 to 8:30 . This is the date for you to try out that new spring outfit, grab your girlfriends and go for an exciting Ladies Night Out in Downtown LaGrange.

In the harried hassle of our busy lives, your group could begin their evening at the beautifully remodeled Studio One Eighty at 27 S. Ashland Avenue. Relax with a glass of wine, have a quick complimentary dry style or bang trim from one of their many excellent stylists for that perfect spring pick me up. Maybe you might schedule a "new you make-over" taking advantage of the many specials on services that will be offered that evening. While enjoying the gourmet cheese pairings, you will definitely want to search through their fabulous purse party collection and score that adorable accessory addition certain to be the envy of all your girlfriends! It will be first come, first served at LaGrange's New Studio 180!

Or you and your girlfriends could start your meanderings in Linnea Jewelers at 23 S. Ashland Ave. Famous for their friendly professional service and lots of Red Carpet bling, nothing makes you feel as light hearted as beautiful, sparkling jewelry! Have your own fine jewelry cleaned, polished and inspected while you and your girlfriends peruse all the dazzling temptations. Take advantage of the sale that evening, maybe something shiny and new for the upcoming vacation season? Don't forget to fill out your personal wish list for Mothers Day, birthdays and anniversaries. Even refuel your wallet (and the economy) by selling your old unused gold! Enjoy delicious nibbles from the fabulous caterer Heidi Dellman, while you and a professional goldsmith contemplate a custom creation that is uniquely YOU!
Door prize drawings every hour. Remember Linnea's is LaGrange's Green Jeweler!

Leave the winter doldrums behind and start spring off with a bang! Mark your calendars, make plans with your friends and attend Ladies Night Out on Friday, April 9th Take advantage of the complimentary offerings, getting your hair fluffed, having your jewelry polished & cleaned and try your luck at winning a door prize. Special discounts will apply that evening only, so don't miss out on the advantage of being smart & thrifty while having an evening out and loads of fun with your girlfriends! Only in..... Ahhhh LaGrange!


Denise Oros Master Goldsmith
Linnea Jewelers Inc.
23 South Ashland Avenue
LaGrange IL 60525
PH: 708-482-0007 FX: 708-482-0964
linneajewelers@yahoo.com
Goldsmiths at your service ~ Since 1981 ~
www.ljinc.net

Tuesday-Friday 10-6PM
Saturday 10-3PM

Sit Stay

We graduated...again! Mitch and I have gone through about 5 training classes with Barb Clish and Mary Keeffe through the Community Park District of La Grange Park.

It's not that he doesn't get it - he gets it perfectly and loves to go to class - it is the dog owner, the human, who needs refreshing. Plus it is fun.

I got Mitch from the Lakeshore Humane Society in Manitowoc WI about 5 years ago. When I saw his photo posted on their website, I knew he was the dog for me. He is an English Shepherd. While my kids were growing up, I had an English Shepherd puppy who lived to be 12 years old, so since I had a history with the breed, the shelter was only too happy to let me adopt him. At the time, we had another dog - Sara Alice aka Weenie - who was a loveable, squirrley little white dog. My daughter and I drove up to Wisconsin with Weenie to meet our new addition.

We soon discovered that Mitch did not know how to behave on a leash, in fact, we were doubtful that he had ever walked at all - the pads of his feet were like a baby's skin they were so soft. Since I walk through the neighborhood, and love to have a dog companion, it was paramount that my dog would be able to walk with me - sensibly and with some decorum.

Upon observing totally uncouth behavior, like lunging at kids on bikes, yanking me along (who was walking whom?), one of my fellow dog owners gently recommended dog training through the park district.

Of course, having been a dog owner almost my whole life, I figured I could do this myself. I was wrong.

We enrolled - Mitch and I. At the first class, Barb brought her partner, Millie, a beautiful Golden Retriever. Barb is a sergeant on the Brookfield Zoo police force and a training expert. Mary also has extensive training and experience with dogs. She told us that by the end of the class, each of our dogs would in fact sit and stay even though a chicken would walk in front of them.

We chortled, we gasped - there was a chicken sitting on Millie's back! Wow, I thought - if only......

The eight week session starts with the basics: having your dog sit and stay while you back away and eventually all of the owners go out of the room and the dogs all stay at their spots. We are continually amazed - how - and WHY - do they do it? The actually obey and it is a sight to see.

After going through a basic class, you and your dog can go onto Advanced Training. In the Advanced class, we do rallies, obstacle courses, and have an array of animals introduced to our dogs. In the class that recently ended, there were 8 teams - two Portuguese Water Dogs, a Shztzu, two Goldens, a Border Collie mix, a black Lab and Mitch and their humans.

Dog training is offered through our park district in fall and spring with the possibility of a summer class coming up. The cost is $100 for residents. Each class is an hour long and is jam-packed with activities for you and your dog to continue in your everyday life - as Barb is fond of saying, "It is human training, not dog training." The dogs love to work in this environment, are excited to see their friends and are ecstatic that they are being praised. The dogs love Barb and Mary - both women have to greet each dog individually as they come in.

Just last week, Mitch and I walked across the street to meet a new puppy. Mitch was pulling at his leash, wanting to play with the puppy. I told him to 'sit stay' - he did - and I went to greet the puppy and Mitch sat there till I told him he could come. It works - !

St. Patrick's Day La Grange Park style

If you are near the 600 block of Newberry today around noon, you may wonder what is going on. It is the third annual all-day event called "Just Irish Enough" - some refer to it as a St. Patrick's Day Parade, and a parade does kick off the day, but it is really a huge block party with a purpose.

According to Sarah Mycek, a committee member, last year's event raised more than $23,000 for about 60 shaved heads. Volunteers have their heads shaved bald and the monies raised goes to St. Baldrick's Foundation, an organization who raises funds for children's cancer research.

This year the 'stylists' will also be cutting ponytails to give to Locks of Love.

Head shaving begins at 2:00 p.m. following the parade. Tommy Hawk, the mascot for the Chicago Blackhawks, the Blackhawks Ice Girls and the mascot from the Chicago White Sox, South Paw, will also be on hand at 2:30 p.m. Food and beverages will be sold and there will be a bake sale.

Chris Zuncic, one of the neighbors on the 600 block of Newberry has talked about the event since its inception. "It's a great party - Jim (McCarthy), the guy who organizes the day, does a wonderful job and it gets bigger every year. It's a blast."

As of March 2, the event has raised more than $16,000 with 50 heads set to be shaved.

The festivities begin at noon on Saturday the 13th on the 600 block of Newberry. There is no cost for admission, but donations are appreciated. For more information contact http://www.st.baldricks.org