Downers Grove Magazine Issues
Navigating Seasonal Allergies: When to treat at home and when to call a doctor
By Hinsdale Magazine Group Staff As the flowers bloom and trees bud, the annual struggle with seasonal allergies begins. Pollen fills the air, triggering sneezing, congestion, itchy eyes, and runny noses for millions. While over-the-counter medications provide relief for most, some cases require professional medical attention. Knowing when to visit the drugstore and when to…
Read MoreDuPage County Historical Architecture A few local architectural gems
A few local architectural gems By Maureen Callahan Old DuPage County Courthouse, Wheaton This building, opened in 1896, replaced the original structure from 1868. It was built on land purchased from Warren L. Wheaton and is one of the rare Richardsonian Romanesque styles in northern Illinois. The duration of this design was short-lived as buildings…
Read MoreThe Power of Unity: How suburban theaters are rewriting the script on collaboration
By Laura Michaud & Melissa G. Wilson Chicago’s western suburbs have long embraced collaboration within individual communities, with local chambers and cities integrating performing arts into events. However, a larger opportunity lies in building a network of cross-community artistic partnerships, potentially transforming the region’s cultural landscape. For example, the Salt Creek Ballet of Westmont performed…
Read MoreMary Braatz Re/Max Enterprises
Downers Grove Magazine (DGM): What made you choose Real Estate as a career, and what keeps you motivated? Mary Braatz (MB): I initially chose Real Estate after working for several years in the Loop. I wanted to work in my local community. I love solving problems and finding the best options for my clients,…
Read MoreWedding Planning Guide
WEDDING DRESS Fifi Papadopoulos, a talented seamstress from Greece, opened Fifi’s Bridal & Custom Tailoring in Elmhurst, Illinois, 16 years ago. Fifi Specializes in wedding gowns and all garment alterations. She offers a stunning selection of bridal and mother-of-the-bride dresses. Fifi’s friendly, expert service makes every client feel like family! 446 N York St, Elmhurst,…
Read MoreTeen Trailblazer Ava Dorsey & Ava’s Pet Palace
Some of the best ideas are inspired by small things. For Downers Grove North senior, and founder of Ava’s Pet Palace, Ava Dorsey, that small beginning was a little orange tabby cat. “I was two years old when my parents adopted Pumpkin,” said Dorsey. “He was the first animal I ever had and the inspiration…
Read MoreChef Showcase: Local Flavors
Q&A with Chef Ian Schlegel of Cadence Kitchen & Co. Who influenced you early on? Food has always been a big part of my life. Growing up, I spent a lot of time in the kitchen with my mom, where helping cook was the rule if you were around. Cooking quickly became second nature to…
Read MoreA Heart Warming Story
A local teen with a congenital heart condition is surprised with a VIP Bears Experience By Valerie Hardy O’Neill Middle School eighth-grader Jonah Davis was born with only half a functioning heart, but he is a wholehearted football fan. However, Jonah cannot play football or other contact sports because of his critical congenital heart condition:…
Read MoreMelissa Gorman creates a supportive resource for people living with cancer
By Valerie Hardy United by Unique” is the three-year theme for the annual World Cancer Day, which is held on Feb. 4. The alliterative credo reflects the fact that behind every diagnosis is a distinctly individual human story. The campaign aims to raise awareness and inspire action, specifically toward placing people at the center of…
Read MoreBeverly Kim’s journey from Downers Grove to becoming one of Chicago’s top chefs
Beverly Kim’s path to becoming a James Beard Award-winning chef began at the Barnes & Noble in Downers Grove in the 1990s, back when she was a student at Downers Grove South High School and still “trying to figure out [her] own place in the world,” she said. One of her sisters suggested she would…
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