Berwyn anniversary ISSUE!
February 2017 Issue 1
MAGAZINE
BERWYN’S BEST
SOUP CELEBRATING
BUSINESS
MILESTONES
THE PULL OF WORLD'S LARGEST LAUNDROMAT
HOT DEALS
A quarterly publication by the Berwyn Development Corporation 3322 S. Oak Park Ave. • Berwyn, IL 60402 708-788-8100 • berwyn.net
Estimado residente de Berwyn… nuestro boletín comunitario ya esta en Español Quédese en contacto con su comunidad Si quisiera recibir este boletín (GRATIS) en su idioma, por favor de llamar 2017, Issue 1 al BDC y preguntar por Erika al 708-788-8100 o sobre e-mail a: erikao@berwyn.net
$5 OFF $25 Purchase Not valid with any other discount. Dine in only. Berwyn only. Must mention coupon when ordering. Coupon expires July 31, 2017.
Pizzeria & BAR
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6226 W. Ogden Avenue, Berwyn • 708.484.5325 • paisanspizza.com
THE BDC ISSUED PHILANTHROPIC GRANTS IN 2016, TOTALING
Learn more: Berwyn.net/philanthropic-grants
PROUDLY SERVING WITH OUR PARTNERS
BDC Investors
BDC Leaders
BDC Trustees
President
Berwyn
The
in his own words
As the shadows of Winter begin to fade and the nuances of Spring are peaking toward the horizon, expect another year of success and prosperity for our community. My past addresses have focused on the great accomplishments of our City. Because numbers and statistics actually do matter, it is my privilege to share the contributing factors that have led to those accomplishments. With each year, the benchmark for achieving key success initiatives rose, as have the respective results! According to CMAP and as reported by Crain’s, Berwyn topped Cook County for median income growth at 10.8%, which outpaced the nation’s growth as well as that of neighbors like Oak Park and Chicago. What’s more, Berwyn is just one of only 10 townships in metro Chicago to overtake the inflation rate of 10.3%. In a phrase, the Why Berwyn? campaign has been the dominant mechanism that has yielded such progress. Since the start of the campaign in pre-recession 2007, Berwyn’s annual sales volume has grown 47% to approximately $30.6M in 2016 only to be complemented by Berwyn’s residential investment growth of 71% to approximately $24.8M over the same time period. The campaign is noted among economic development professionals and serves as a platform from which the BDC’s business attraction efforts are continuously recognized as proof positive by way of the number of new businesses opening each year.
ribbon cuttings last year have further solidified Berwyn as the destination area that it is. Of special recognition, this publication features 21 businesses celebrating milestone anniversaries, which have been instrumental in paving the way for sustainable economic impact. An example of this legacy leadership is this year’s George W. Ashby Award recipient, Vesecky’s Bakery. Great recognition is also given to John Aranza as this year’s Charles E. Piper Award recipient. John’s commitment and contribution to Berwyn has elevated the City’s presence and stature. Congratulations Nancy Vesecky and John Aranza, well deserved! In closing, I am confident that the significant gains achieved in 2016 will continue to be enhanced in 2017 as a result of the progressive partnership and collaboration between the BDC and the City of Berwyn. The foresight and trust born and supported by the city’s leadership continues to make a tremendous impact for why Berwyn is truly Nothing Like A Suburb!
REGULARS 03 06 07 10 11 13 16
President’s Column Grand Openings New Members “Hot Deals” Coupons “Hot Deals” Coupons “Hot Deals” Coupons Partners in the Community
FEATURES 04 08 12 14 18
Business Milestones The Pull of World's Largest Laundromat
Depot District Mini-Golf Pub Crawl Piper & Ashby Award Honorees Berwyn’s Best Soup
BOARD OF DIRECTORS OFFICERS PRESIDENT
Jousef Mondragon VICE PRESIDENT
Andy Sotiropoulous VICE PRESIDENT
Anthony Belcaster TREASURER
Guy Hollis SECRETARY
Jennifer Mitchell EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
DIRECTORS Christine Tully Aranza Dorothy Chiero Mary E. Cleary Melissa Kowalski Tony Laureto Scott Lennon Alba Lovero Loren Middleton Brendan O’Connor Gilbert Peña Angela Tomassetti
Anthony Griffin STAFF
SPECIAL EVENTS COORDINATOR
RICHARD “JOUSEF” MONDRAGON
Sande Brennan
DIRECTOR OF CHAMBER SERVICES
Amy M. Crowther
ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
Megan Strama
ACCOUNTANT
Bob Hodgetts
PROJECT MANAGER, ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Paul Ruane
PROGRAM ASSISTANT, CHAMBER SERVICES
Also of note, the WhyBerwyn.com website effectively reached locals both within Berwyn (41% page views) as well as Chicago (26% page views) with 55% of new site visitors coming from social media. This organic, digital exposure in combination with nine networking events, five seminars and 19
Judy Saraceno-Swenson
PROJECT MANAGER, COMMUNICATIONS & DESIGN
Elaina Chastain PROJECT MANAGER, CHAMBER SERVICES
Erika-Corona Owens
JOUSEF MONDRAGON President BDC Board of Directors
2017, Issue 1
MAGAZINE
Want to learn more about the City of Berwyn’s Tax Increment Financing (TIF) incentive, microloans, commercial loans or looking for properties that are for lease or sale? Visit Berwyn.net and click on “Economic Development” for information on the programs that can assist your existing or new business.
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Craig's Shoes 6548 W Cermak Rd | 10 years Offering national brands, service, and selection in a comfortable family atmosphere.
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3208 S Grove Ave |10 years Serving buyers and sellers, Melissa Kowalski and her agents are committed to providing exceptional service to clients.
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Central Federal Savings & Loan 6940 W Ogden Ave | 40 years Federally chartered savings and loan association. Mortgage loans originated and serviced locally.
Laura Hendrix/Healthcare Solutions Team 7001 W 43rd St (Stickney, IL) | 10 years Offering a personalized approach with individual care and attention for medical health care insurance.
Entire Marketing Group, LLC. 6900 W Cermak Rd |10 years Entire Marketing Group produces Detour Community Maps, an innovative collective advertising platform that creates unique community maps to connect residents with local businesses.
6545 W Stanley Ave |15 years Providing maintenance and service for all vehicles at an exceptional value.
Del Galdo Law Group, LLC. 1441 S Harlem Ave |10 years Providing legal services to both public sector and private sector clients in the metropolitan Chicago area.
JEAH Communications, LLC. P.O. Box 231 (Menomonee Falls, WI) | 20 years Developing superior online marketing strategies, interactive website designs and fine-tuned hosting services.
A.W.E.S.O.M.E. Pest Service, Inc. 3118 S Oak Park Ave | 20 years *Coupon p. 11 Targeting a variety of pests from roaches to raccoons for commercial, residential and industrial properties.
Concordia Little Lambs Preschool
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3144 S Home Ave | 25 years *Coupon p. 13 Providing Christ-centered early education licensed by DCFS for children ages 3 and 4.
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www.berwyn.net
Chicago Glass Blocks 6036 S Central Ave (Chicago, IL) | 30 years Family business specializing in assembly and installation of American made glass block windows.
PHS Locksmiths 6810 Roosevelt Rd (Oak Park, IL) | 35 years Family owned and operated business providing locks, keys and locksmith services.
Gina's Italian Ice 6737 W Roosevelt Rd | 40 years Serving "Berwyn's Best" homemade Italian Ice, lemonade and ice cream since 1977.
Celebrating our past is one of the most powerful actions we can take to shape our future. Join us in marveling at these milestones. MB Financial Bank N.A. 7222 W Cermak Rd (North Riverside, IL) | 105 years MB is proud of their tradition of providing outstanding relationship banking services.
Adolf Berwyn Funeral Home 2921 S Harlem Ave | 115 years Providing service expertise, guidance and understanding during one of the most difficult times in an individual’s life.
Physicians' Record Co. Benny's Pizza 6806 W 26th St | 45 years *Coupon p. 10 Benny's Pizza is a family owned and operated eatery serving pizza, pasta, ribs and sandwiches.
3000 S Ridgeland Ave | 110 years Printing company specializing in business forms, record sheets, cut sheets, continuous and snap-out forms, indexing sets, letterheads and envelopes.
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Solutions for Care 7222 W Cermak Rd Ste 200 (North Riverside, IL) | 45 years Striving to find resources that preserve independence, dignity, self-sufficiency, and a higher quality of life for adults aged 60 and older.
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Friendly Tap 6733 W Roosevelt Rd | 50 years An ''old school'' meets ''new school'' bar, promising ''you are a stranger but once."
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James & Williams Jewelers 7020 W Cermak Rd | 55 years *Coupon p. 11 Full-service jeweler featuring fine jewelry, watches and giftware.
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Turano Baking Company
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MB Financial Bank, N.A
6501 W Roosevelt Rd | 55 years Family-operated authentic European and artisan baking company specializing in partial and fully-baked hearth breads.
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WELCOME TO THE NEIGHBORHOOD! Be among the first to know about business openings by following us on Facebook @WhyBerwyn.
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6840 W WINDSOR AVE
3245 S GROVE AVE, STE 107
CAREPLUS DISCOUNT PHARMACY
MINDFUL WELLNESS, LLC
A full-service pharmacy providing discount pricing, free home delivery and friendly, personal service. Located within Primary Care Associates.
High quality mental and behavioral health services for the whole family, ages 3 through 90.
6319 W ROOSEVELT ROAD
7122 W OGDEN AVE, STE B
KREW ROCK LOUNGE
TOP CUT COMICS
6,000 sf bar, restaurant, lounge and music venue. Full kitchen coming soon!
This establishment brings players and gamers of all kinds together in a 5,000 sf space brimming with a variety of products and on-site events.
7102 W CERMAK ROAD
6711 W 26TH STREET
SPRINT CONNECT, LLC
THE ALLEY FITNESS BOXING GYM
Sprint Connect offers a comprehensive range of wireless and wireline connections to consumers, businesses and government users.
Local fitness boxing gym offering a wide variety of fitness boxing and kickboxing classes, personal training, Tabata bootcamp and self defense seminars.
www.berwyn.net
6735 W STANLEY AVE
2514 HARLEM AVE, NORTH RIVERSIDE
STRIVE 4 FITNESS
RAISING CANE'S CHICKEN FINGERS
Independently owned and operated studio fitness facility holding multiple classes, including personal training and partner training.
Always fresh never ever frozen® premium chicken fingers marinated for 24 hours, hand battered and cooked to order.
NEW MEMBERS, NEW FRIENDS
Trustee Spotlight
November 2016 - January 2017
BROWS BY LUCY 6834 W Windsor Ave, Unit B Berwyn, IL 60402
708-856-7017 browsbylucy.com
Beauty-Skincare, Nails & Spa CHANCE TO DANCE 2947 S Oak Park Ave Berwyn, IL 60402 708-214-5009 chancetodancechi.com Dance Studios COMMUNITY BANK OF OAK PARK RIVER FOREST 1001 Lake St Oak Park, IL 60301 708-660-1000 cboprf.com Financial Institutions ESCAPE FACTOR 711 South Blvd Ste 2 Oak Park, IL 60302 708-943-7227 escapefactorchicago.com Live Entertainment 2017, Issue 1
GOLDILOXX HAIR STUDIO 3214 S Grove Ave Berwyn, IL 60402 708-536-8501 Hair Salons & Barbers MORTON FAMILY DENTAL OF BERWYN 6931 W Cermak Rd Berwyn, IL 60402 708-484-6847 mortonfamilydental of berwyn.com
2137 S OAK PARK AVE
BERWYN TECH ENTREPRENEURSHIP CENTER Berwyn Tech is a shared office space that provides technology and entrepreneurship training programs designed for students, workforce and business professionals. 708.317.5720 | berwyntech.com | Organizations - Business
Dental Office RAISING CANE'S CHICKEN FINGERS 2514 S. Harlem Ave North Riverside, IL 60546 708-442-3433 raisingcanes.com Restaurants & Catering STRIVE 4 FITNESS 6735 W Stanley Ave Berwyn, IL 60402 708-415-0389 strive4fitness.zenplanner.com
Gyms, Trainers & Fitness Instruction
THE ALLEY FITNESS BOXING GYM 6711 W 26th St Berwyn, IL 60402 708-516-2025 thealleyfitness.com Gyms, Trainers & Fitness Instruction
VAULT ESCAPE 3234 S Harlem Ave Riverside, IL 60546 708-990-3029 vaultescapechicago.com Live Entertainment
TOP CUT COMICS 7122 W Ogden Ave Ste B Berwyn, IL 60402 708-317-5589 topcutcomics.com Retail-Books, Music, Video Games, Movies & Hobbies
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T
he World’s Largest Laundromat has over 300 machines, a bird aviary, sixteen flatscreen TVs and thirty-six solar panels. It sets precedents in technology, service, innovation and philanthropy. But more importantly, it has a gravitational pull. This iconic Berwyn business, which is true to its name, is the flagship store of one of the most vital small-business industries in the nation. After all, you don’t get very far without clean clothes. Its gravitational pull starts with drawing customers from every town that neighbors Berwyn and from miles away in Chicago and ends with the opening of successful businesses around it, each of which feeds off this influx of people. From diners to dollar stores, the east end of Cermak Road is its own economic solar system with the laundromat at its center.
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While most laundromats employ one or two full-time employees, World’s Largest has over twenty. With thousands of customers a week, it’s no small feat to keep the 13,500-square-foot facility clean, especially since it never closes…ever. The rundown facility was purchased by Tom Benson in 1999. Years of renovations went up in smoke in 2004 when the facility burned to the ground. But it was so vital to the community that without any advertising or advance notice, lines of people with laundry formed outside the day it reopened. Utility bills are the underlying monster of the industry. For example, over twenty-four million gallons of water are used each year, and much of that is heated for wash cycles. That led the laundromat to invest heavily in green energy. Thirty-six solar panels heat the water, lighting has been upgraded to www.berwyn.net
efficient LEDs, and state-of-the-art “express” washers spin out so much water that drying, aka natural gas, time has been cut in half. Even the laundromat’s new private-label detergent, Gigi, is sold by the ounce in recycled bottles provided by customers. At the core of the ownership’s decisionmaking process is being part of the community it serves. Read-to-Ride is a summer reading program where kids get a raffle ticket for each book read during the summer. In August, 20 lucky tickets are pulled and those kids ride off on brand-new bikes. Since its inception, over 100,000 books have been read and more than 300 bikes awarded. The laundromat recently added a writing contest, too. Santa Claus makes three visits each December, giving away hundreds of free pictures and presents to neighborhood kids. But the laundromat’s philanthropy doesn’t 2017, Issue 1
stop with children. It has organized and hosted information sessions on federal immigration policy and the Affordable Care Act. Last winter, the laundromat reached a milestone: 12 years since the fire. To celebrate, they needed an idea: something big, loud and fun for all ages. And that idea was to bring back Berwyn's Independence Day fireworks. It wasn’t a one-time party, though. The Benson family has committed to providing the fireworks for as long as the laundromat is still washing, drying and folding. From jobs to conservation and community-based philanthropy and engagement, the World’s Largest Laundromat embodies the driven and fun-loving character of its neighborhood.
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CLIP AND SAVE COUPONS!
For online “hot deals” coupons, visit WhyBerwyn.com and select Shop & Dine
Book your special event & receive a
COMPLIMENTARY SLIDESHOW or 50% OFF your linen package
Connie's Family Restaurant & Cocktails
Voted “Berwyn’s Best” Top 5 Soups in 2017!
conniesberwyn.com 3271 S. Harlem Ave., Berwyn 708.484.3447 Coupon expires 5/31/2017
DOUBLE DELUXE BUY ONE,
BUY ANY 90-MINUTE SERVICE & receive
HALF OFF on second service or 20% OFF a single treatment*
GET ONE FREE*
Culver's culvers.com 6943 W. Roosevelt Rd., Berwyn 8211 W. Ogden Ave., Lyons
Face2Face Spa Studio face2facespastudio.com 6805 W. Roosevelt Rd., Berwyn c: 708.737.1200 o: 708.427.6898
*Valid only at locations mentioned above. Coupon expires 4/30/2017
*Not to be combined with any other offer.
Coupon expires 4/30/2017
89 GRAND OPENING PROMO
$
ONE FREE
introductory lesson on piano, guitar, voice or drums or
Exam, cleaning & necessary x-rays*
$
Morton Family Dental of Berwyn mortonfamilydentalofberwyn.com 6391 W. Cermak Rd., Berwyn 708.484.6847
20 OFF
any computer repair Horse-Drawn Productions horse-drawnproductions.com 6519 W. 26th St., Berwyn 773.463.7970 ext. 3
*Excludes deep cleaning. $250 value.
Coupon expires 4/30/2017
Coupon expires 4/30/2017
RECEIVE 4TH HOUR FREE
20% OFF
your household rental needs*
with purchase of a 3-hour rental of Proksa Activity Center*
Jack’s Rental jacksrental.com 6638-44 W. 26th St., Berwyn 708.788.4300
Berwyn Park District berwynparks.org 3001 S. Wisconsin Ave., Berwyn 708.795.2892
*Contractor/commercial rentals not included. Coupon expires 4/30/2017
*Limit one per household. Call for details. Coupon expires 4/30/2017
5.00 OFF
3.00 OFF
$
$
on all new or transferred prescriptions
any purchase of 30 or more $
Benny’s Pizza bennyspizzaberwyn.com 6806 W. 26th St., Berwyn 708.749.1771 Coupon expires 4/30/2017
Free home delivery service, Most insurance plans accepted
Careplus Discount Pharmacy cpdprx.com 6840 W. Windsor Ave., Berwyn 708.956.7105
Voted “Berwyn’s Best” Top 5 Pizzerias in 2015!
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www.berwyn.net
To advertise, please contact: Judy Saraceno-Swenson Telephone: 708.788.8100 Email: JudyS@berwyn.net
CLIP AND SAVE COUPONS! $
5 OFF
your order of $25 or more* Lavergne's Tavern lavergnes.com 6546 W. Windsor Ave., Berwyn 708.956.7405 *Dine in only. Excludes alcoholic beverages. Coupon expires 4/30/2017
50% OFF
OPEN FOR LUNCH: $
James & Williams Jewelers jwjewelers.com 7020 W. Cermak Rd., Berwyn 708.788.9200
Bodhi Thai Bistro bodhithaibistro.com 6211 W. Roosevelt Rd., Berwyn 708.484.9250
7.95 SPECIAL*
Officina Bernardi Jewelry*
*In-stock merchandise only. Coupon expires 4/30/2017
MONDAY - FRIDAY FROM 11AM - 3PM
*Dine in only. Coupon expires 4/30/2017
CLOSED ON TUESDAY
A.W.E.S.O.M.E. Pest Service Inc.
Berwyn, IL 60402
10 OFF
10% OFF
$
any service
purchase of $50 or more*
A.W.E.S.O.M.E. Pest Service, Inc. awesomepestservices.com 3118 S. Oak Park Ave., Berwyn 708.484.6126
Extreme Soccer, Inc. 6611 W. 26th St., Berwyn 708.484.8657
Coupon expires 4/30/2017
USE THIS COUPON
to make your order of hot wings EXTRA BIG! Cigars & Stripes BBQ Lounge stripesbbq.com 6715 W. Ogden Ave., Berwyn 708.484.1043
*Excludes sale items. Coupon expires 4/30/2017
5.00 OFF
$
purchase of $20 or more* Old Fashioned Candies oldfashionedcandiesinc.com 6210 W. Cermak Rd., Berwyn 708.788.6669 *Excludes sale items. Coupon expires 4/30/2017
Coupon expires 4/30/2017
MIKE & SONS Auto Services
10 off any service over $100 & $25 off brake job
$
2017, Issue 1
25 OFF
$
10 OFF
$
any service over $100 or $
plumbing $
25 OFF
sewer excavation
brake job
Mike & Sons Auto Services 6333 W. Ogden Ave., Berwyn 708.484.1767
Morning Noon & Night Plumbing & Sewer thyplumber.com 8557 44th St., Lyons 708.447.9640
Coupon expires 4/30/2017
Coupon expires 4/30/2017
100 OFF
More coupons on page 13!
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Depot District Mini-Golf Pub Crawl
D
EP
T
Save the Date for the annual Depot District Mini-Golf Pub Crawl on Saturday, April 22 from Noon to 6:00 PM. OT D IS T RI
C
This event takes a spirited crowd along a mini-golf tournament staged at the Depot District’s repertoire of taverns and restaurants. Each venue has a handmade mini-golf putting green to challenge even the most athletic four-somes. Free trolley will be available. Grab your putter and your 3 favorite friends to contend for prizes for lowest – and highest – scores! After the golfing concludes, participants can enjoy an after-party with music, food, drawings and more! Registration is now open at WhyBerwyn.com.
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| www.chicagoglassblocks.com | www.berwyn.net
For online “hot deals” coupons, visit WhyBerwyn.com and select Shop & Dine
CLIP AND SAVE COUPONS! 25 OFF
$
income tax preparation
Ron Peters
Member of the Illinois CPA Society for 35 years
Ron Peters 6940 W. Ogden Ave., Berwyn 708.771.6665 Coupon expires 4/15/2017
Taxes done right.
5 OFF
$
20% OFF
purchase of $25 or more*
new student’s first month’s tuition
Lalo's Restaurant lalos.com 3011 S. Harlem Ave., Berwyn 708.484.9311
Concordia Little Lambs Preschool littlelambs.concordiaberwyn.org 3144 S. Home Ave., Berwyn 708.795.7563
*Dine in only. Excludes alcoholic beverages Coupon expires 4/30/2017
Coupon expires 4/30/2017
Now offering FULL DAY program
Voted “Berwyn’s Best” Top 5 Soups in 2017!
STOP BY FOR A FREE RAND McNALLY ROAD ATLAS* Agent Jim Finnerty Serving Berwyn since 1989
5 OFF
$ BY MARTHA SANTOYO
purchase of $30 or more* AVON by Martha Santoyo youravon.com/MarthaSantoyo 708.220.1871
State Farm Insurance Jim Finnerty jimfinnerty.com Jim@jimfinnerty.com 6643 W. Ogden Ave., Berwyn 708.788.3868
*For Spanish call Elena: 312.401.3888 Coupon expires 4/20/2017
*$8 value. Coupon expires 4/30/2017
100 OFF
20 OFF
$
$
new student family registration fee
Berwyn flood program
St. Leonard Parish School stleonardschool.org 3322 S. Clarence Ave., Berwyn 708.749.3666 Coupon expires 4/30/2017
708-795-0700
7018 W. 16th Street Air Conditioning Berwyn, IL 60402 Sales • Service • Parts Coupon expires 4/30/2017 www.sullivans-plumbing.com Air Conditioning No Job Too Small
Sales • Service • Parts No Job Too Small
GET 1 LESSON FREE when you sign up for 3 music or voice lessons*
Above & Beyond Music Store thenitelight.org 7009 W. Ogden Ave., Berwyn 708.484.4444 *Piano, guitar, voice, drums, violin, flute, trumpet, saxophone, ukelele, banjo.
Sullivan’s Plumbing & Heating, Inc. sullivans-plumbing.com 7018 W. 16th St., Berwyn 708.795.0700
Water Heaters
Sump Pumps
4 OFF
$
your next order of $12 or more Michael Anthony’s Pizzeria Restaurant & Bar mapizzaberwyn.com 6434 W. Ogden Ave., Berwyn 708.484.2222
Offer valid upon initial enrollment. Coupon expires 4/30/2017
2017, Issue 1
More coupons on pages 10 & 11!
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JOHN ARANZA HONORED WITH THE 32ND ANNUAL CHARLES E. PIPER AWARD The BDC is proud to present John Aranza with this respected community award to honor his achievements and contributions towards the growth and development of Berwyn’s business community. Each year, the BDC membership selects an individual who best exemplifies the spirit of one of Berwyn’s original developers, Charles E. Piper. When John Aranza recognized Berwyn’s residential and business growth, as well as the city’s potential given its proximity to western suburbs and Chicago, he knew it was a prime location for opening a business. Committed to the Berwyn community, John established two businesses and eventually bought a home in Berwyn. His business ventures include Horrorbles, a horror and collectibles memorabilia store, and the award-winning Autre Monde Café & Spirits, which he operates with his wife Christine Tully Aranza and former colleagues and chefs Dan Pancake and Beth Partridge. John has cultivated success in each of his respective businesses. Horrorbles, which has been in business for 12 years, attracts numerous Hollywood actors for visits and signings—they’re
34th Street Dental Care 708.484.6576 www.34thstreetdentalcare.com Free Orthodontic Consultation Free Exam and Xrays for new patients
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www.berwyn.net
even the official rubber chicken supplier for the Svengoolie Show. Autre Monde Café & Spirits won best new restaurant from the Chicago Tribune during its opening year, has been touted by Michelin Bib Gourmand, Time-Out Chicago and Chicago Magazine, and was nationally recognized by Wine & Spirits and Wine Spectator for their wine program. John himself has received multiple nominations for Jean Banchet’s Best Sommelier distinction and has been recognized for playing an influential role in bringing attention to Balkan Wines in the United States.
Learn more about the awards at Berwyn.net/awards. Celebrate with the business community at Berwyn Above & Beyond on March 25. Tickets available at Berwyn.net.
2017, Issue 1
VESECKY’S BAKERY HONORED BY PEERS WITH BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARD
Vesecky’s Bakery will be recognized as the recipient of the annual George W. Ashby Award for Business Excellence. The award is is a local honor named after one of Berwyn’s distinguished early architects. It is given annually to one Berwyn-based business. Vesecky’s Bakery, a truly authentic Czech bakery, has been a purveyor of handmade Eastern European delicacies for the past 112 years. The bakery was started by Bohemil and Anna Vesecky in 1905 in Chicago. Thirty years later, their son James and his wife Alice took over the business and brought it to 6234 Cermak Road in Berwyn. In the 1960s, Vesecky’s moved down the street to its current home at 6634 Cermak Road.
By 1995, the business was owned by the fourth generation of Veseckys— Dave and his wife Nancy as well as Randy and his late wife Diane. This small storefront with its friendly, artisan bakers and unassuming mid-century décor has painstakingly maintained a charming “old neighborhood” look and feel. Now a regional destination for those seeking bona fide Bohemian goodies, Vesecky’s is known for their kolacky, houska, Czech apple strudl, Hungarian strudl, hot cross buns and cookies. While true to their roots, Vesecky’s also uniquely reflects the change within the community and has opened up their menu to include seasonal products such as guava items and various Mexican cookies. They also take special orders. “We are so pleased to be the recipient of this award. Receiving this award is such an amazing honor to be given to us by the BDC!” commented Nancy Vesecky.
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Partners in our community EDUCATION
bn98.org BERWYN NORTH SCHOOL DIST. 98
Berwyn North School District 98 would like to congratulate our three 3rd graders from Jefferson Elementary School that placed 1st, 2nd, and 3rd in the Annual Berwyn Fire Poster Contest. The contest was open to all Berwyn residents in 3rd grade. This year's topic was checking your smoke detector batteries, "Don't Wait! Check the Date!” The winners are 1st Place Ailton Roman (Ms. Pena's), 2nd Place Guillermo Mora (Mrs. Sorensen's) and 3rd Place Carolina Rocha (Mrs. Castillo's). All three students were recognized at the Berwyn City Council Meeting on Tuesday, January 10, 2017. Congratulations to our winners and all the participants for embodying their personal, academic and civic potential within this contest. bsd100.org BERWYN SOUTH SCHOOL DIST. 100
Berwyn South School District 100’s Board of Education, at their 12.21.16 meeting, appointed Mary Havis as Superintendent, effective immediately. Mrs. Havis has been working since last spring on a District
Improvement Plan (DIP) that will guide District 100 in improving all aspects of instruction district wide. The process began with a thorough analysis of data by a diverse group of staff, parents and Board members who have worked for the past several months to establish district goals and common assessments that will increase student achievement throughout the district. Goals in literacy, math and language acquisition programs have been developed and will be implemented with results expected as early as next year. morton201.org MORTON WEST HIGH SCHOOL
J. Sterling Morton High School District 201 was recently recognized by Solution Tree for its success in raising student achievement. Responding to news of the recognition, Jeff Pesek said, “We continuously work with our educators to ensure we’re on the right track to improvement as we work toward our mission: every student succeeds.” According to champions of PLC at Work™, Morton educators have shown “a sustained commitment to helping all of their students achieve at high levels.” Morton is one of about 200 schools and districts in the U.S. and Canada to receive this honor.
morton.edu MORTON COLLEGE
Morton College welcomes the community to our annual Campus Visit Day: Imagine Yourself @ MC on Saturday, March 11, 2017 beginning at 9 a.m. in Building A, JPAC Theatre. Prospective students will be able to engage with faculty and staff, attend informational workshops, and receive a campus tour. This event is free and open to everyone. We will have giveaways and new students will be entered in a raffle to receive a $500 Morton College Foundation Jump Start Grant. Registration is required for the Visit Day. Visit morton.edu for details.
LIBRARY
berwynlibrary.org BERWYN PUBLIC LIBRARY
Outsmart the winter weather! Whether you’re stircrazy and need to go out, or you don’t want to open your door, the Berwyn Library is there for you. Our climate-controlled three floors offer free Wi-Fi throughout, computers to use, books, movies, music and magazines to borrow, and there is often a program going on. Or stay safe and cozy at home and download thousands of books, movies, and music from our website with your Berwyn Library card! Receive a monthly email with upcoming programs, news and events for all ages by registering at http://eepurl.com/coNq1.
Located at the Liberty Cultural Center 6445 W. 27th Pl, Berwyn Doors open at 4 P.M. Bingo starts at 6 P.M. Food/Refreshments Available Over $2000.00 in Prizes
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www.berwyn.net
PARKS
HEALTH
nbpd4fun.org NORTH BERWYN PARK DISTRICT
With every new year comes new resolutions! Learn a new skill. Become fit. Learn new dance moves. Play a sport. Become more involved in your community. Whatever your choice, let the North Berwyn Park District be your resource. Featuring special events such as Dr. Seuss’ Birthday Bash on March 4, Easter Activities on April 15 and Think Green on April 22. Programs for children, adults and seniors such as theater, sports, art, dance, fitness and martial arts. The North Berwyn Park District has the right program for you. berwynparks.org BERWYN PARK DISTRICT
The Berwyn Park District has the perfect summer plans for you and your children! Adventure Camp is a great way to stay active and have fun throughout the summer. Campers participate in sports, crafts, swimming twice a week, field trips every Friday and much more. Registration and payments can be made at Proksa or Freedom Parks. The fees for our camp include all activities, trips, breakfast, lunch, afternoon snack and events. Camp is Monday through Friday for children ages 5 to 13.
toi.org/berwyntownship TOWNSHIP OF BERWYN PUBLIC HEALTH DIST.
The Berwyn Public Health District (6600 W. 26th Street) will be holding its annual Well Woman fair on Wednesday, May 10 from 8am-12pm for Berwyn residents by appointment. Free services include: height, weight, BMI, blood pressure, hemoglobin, oximetry, pulse, and a basic bone density screening. Blood draws for a comprehensive metabolic panel (CMP), thyroid, lipid and Vitamin D levels will also be done – all free of charge. Fasting at least eight hours prior to the screening is required for accurate results. A return appointment on Wednesday, May 17 is required to obtain results and a medical consultation. To schedule an appointment, please call 708-788-6600.
ENTERTAINMENT
CHECK OUT THE FULL CALENDAR AT WHYBERWYN.COM Quinceañera Expo
Berwyn Park District 12pm - 6pm
Campus Visit Day Morton College 9am - 1pm
Into the Beautiful North 16th Street Theater running through May 20
16thstreettheater.org 16TH STREET THEATER
16th Street Theater celebrates their 10th anniversary of telling the stories of all in our community by presenting excellent and engaging live theater at 6420 16th Street in Berwyn. Presenting BLIZZARD '67 by Jon Steinhagen, extended thru March 11! Next up is INTO THE BEAUTIFUL NORTH, adapted by Kane Zacarias from the novel by Luis Alberto Urrea April 13 - May 20, 2017. Call (708) 795-6704 for tickets.
Think Green
North Berwyn Park District 9am - 12pm
Dia de los Ninos Party Berwyn Public Library 3pm - 4pm
HALL RENTAL FOR ALL OCCASSIONS Plan your next event at our affordable & accommodating venue that has served Berwyn for decades FULL BAR BARTENDER HOURLY RATES
ITALIAN AMERICAN CIVIC ORGANIZATION OF BERWYN 6710 W. 16th St. Berwyn Il. 60402 Tel:(708) 803-CLUB Email: IACOB6710@Gmail.com
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Tacos Y Salsa walked away with another Berwyn's Best title under their belt! Their Caldo de Camaron is made with a tomato base, cabbage, carrots, medium shrimp, celery, onions, garlic and secret family spices. The bowl is garnished with avocado, cilantro, onion and lime and served with warm bread or tortillas. "We have a great team. I’m proud of what we’ve achieved. It isn’t my win, it’s a team win. Although we are small, we serve up a big flavor,” says owner Laura Guerrero.
Coupon on pg. 13!
3011 S HARLEM AVE
LALO'S RESTAURANT Their Caldo de Res is made with short ribs, potatoes, zucchini, cauliflower, green beans, corn and carrots. It is garnished with cilantro, onion and lime and served with tortillas.
Coupon on pg. 10!
7016 W CERMAK RD
3271 S HARLEM AVE
CZECH PLAZA RESTAURANT
CONNIE'S FAMILY RESTAURANT & COCKTAILS
Their Sauerkraut Soup is made with smoked sausage, sauerkraut, sour cream and a secret blend of spices. It is served with bread.
Their Cream of Chicken & Rice Soup is made with a cream base, chicken, rice and a secret blend of seasonings. It is garnished with a lemon wedge and served with bread rolls, crackers and butter.
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3249 S OAK PARK AVE
MACNEAL HOSPITAL CAFE Their Greek Lemon Soup is made with chicken stock, celery, onions, carrots, chicken, cream, eggs and lemon. It is served with bread or crackers.
www.berwyn.net
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Berwyn
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This ain’t your average pizza place
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6226 W. Ogden Ave • Berwyn, IL 60402 • 708-484-5325