Hinsdale Magazine August 2020

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SERVING HINSDALE, BURR RIDGE, CLARENDON HILLS & OAK BROOK

HINSDALE’S FIRST MAGAZINE $5 US VOLUME 10 ISSUE 8 August 2020

PRESERVING HINSDALE Hinsdaleans for Historic Preservation group seeks to salvage historic homes

Local Business

How King Keyser has adapted during the pandemic

Education

Dist. 86 unveils reopening plan

Century of Service

Darvin Furniture & Mattress celebrates 100 years in business


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Peter T. Harnois, DDS Michael J. Kowalczyk, DDS

Patient Care is our Top Priority

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t Hinsdale Dentistry, we understand dental settings have unique characteristics that warrant specific infection control considerations. Therefore, with respect to our valued patients, we prioritize the most critical dental services. This allows us to minimize harm to patients from delaying care, as well as harm to both patients and personnel from potential exposure to COVID-19. Dr. Harnois and Dr. Kowalczak proactively communicate to both personnel and patients the

“We understand the concerns our patients have about COVID-19 and our entire staff wants to make them feel safe and comfortable the moment they walk into our dental practice. To us they are more than just patients. They are family and friends that we have had the privilege of serving for over thirty years.� - DR. PETER HARNOIS, DDS

need for them to stay at home if they are sick. Our staff is trained to know the proper steps to take if a patient has COVID-19 symptoms. Dr. Peter was on the first committees in 1985 to advise OSHA of the best practices & protocol, and has stayed ahead of these guidelines ever since. Per the Center for Disease Control (CDC), anyone can have mild to severe symptoms. Older adults and people who have severe underlying medical conditions, including heart or lung disease, or diabetes seem to be at higher risk for developing serious complications from COVID-19 illness.

911 N. ELM, SUITE 230 | HINSDALE, IL | 630-323-4468 WWW.HINSDALEDENTISTRY.COM


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Caregiver screening All associates are required to wear face masks and screen for symptoms each day before work.

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LETTER from THE PUBLISHER

LOOKING AHEAD FOR THE BETTER August is like a hammock in the lives of most of us, most of the time. The big topics are usually where to go on vacation, back-to-school and the like. The past several months, and for the foreseeable future, are times we have never dealt with. What is school going to be like for our children this August and fall? Besides affecting school, how is COVID-19 going to continue to impact the rest of our lives, our jobs and how we interact with each other; and what is the effect of the pandemic going to be on the upcoming elections? How do we balance the right amount of caution with the right amount of common sense?

SERVING HINSDALE, BURR RIDGE, CLARENDON HILLS & OAK BROOK

HINSDALE’S FIRST MAGAZINE $5 US VOLUME 10 ISSUE 5 August 2020

So, in our August issue, we try to be as helpful as possible, with a look at the unknown and how we are coping, and a look at the past and how we have coped. First, we take a look at District 86's reopening plan, complete with the necessity to be flexible, as noted by District 86 board president Kevin Camden, and superintendent Tammy Prentiss.

PRESERVING HINSDALE

HinsdaleMag.com | HINSDALE MAGAZINE

As another reminder of positivity, we focus on a company that is celebrating 100 years in business: Darvin Furniture & Mattress, with one location in Orland Park, is still going strong.

Hinsdaleans for Historic Preservation group seeks to salvage historic homes

We have also included some comforting reminders of normalcy and how we can cope. For example, not only do we have our regular advertisements, but we also show several businesspeople in their establishments who invite you in. We even share an example of how one business in town--King Keyser in downtown Hinsdale-has successfully adapted to the pandemic. As another reminder, we have a short story of how Burr Ridge recently showed its appreciation for its police force. Thirdly, we have an article on how a group of Hinsdale

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residents is working to hold onto historic homes, to remind us of what has made our community what it has become over the years. While many activities declined during the Coronavirus pandemic, a new group called Hinsdaleans for Historic Preservation formed on Facebook, seeking to preserve historic homes in the village from demolition. The group had advocated for a 180-day moratorium on demolitions of such homes across Hinsdale, but the village board and plan commission rejected this suggestion. However, the group is continuing its efforts to establish incentives for homeowners to preserve historic houses in the village.

Lastly, for good measure, we have included an article on the value of Education critical thinking. In these days of Century of Service more conflicting information than we can possibly absorb, sometimes it is good to step back and think about how we can be smarter about how we think. A common theme these days is “we are all in this together." If more of us can think about these words, more often, going forward, we’ll all be better for it. Local Business

How King Keyser has adapted during the pandemic

Dist. 86 unveils reopening plan

Darvin Furniture & Mattress celebrates 100 years in business

Scott Jonlich Founder & Publisher sjonlich@hinsdalemag.com


CAR 0718-00578


CONTENTS 10 PUBLISHER’S LETTER 29 ON THE WATER

16 COMMUNITY SCENE

Gordy's Marine

36 LOCAL BUSINESS

How King Keyser has adapted

16

46

39 EDUCATION Hinsdale District 86 fall education plan What about college this fall?

54 BURR RIDGE SHOWS ITS POLICE FORCE SOME LOVE 58 SPOTLIGHT

Century of service

42 THE VALUE OF CRITICAL THINKING 46 COVER STORY

Preserving a part of Hinsdale

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58 ON THE COVER: Corlyn Simmons of Hinsdale Photography by Marcello Rodarte

FOR THE LATEST NEWS, HAPPENINGS AND PHOTOS, VISIT HINSDALEMAG.COM 12

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Ronak M. Patel, MD, Orthopaedic Surgeon

Biologic Therapies

Minimally Invasive Joint Preservation The pandemic has changed our activity levels and preferences. With the summer finally here, make sure to enjoy it and be as active as you want! There are non-invasive options to keep your joints healthy.

Dr. Ronak Patel has embraced these fast-growing Biologic Therapies because he believes whole-heartedly in restoring your mobility in the safest, least invasive way possible. Targeted techniques include stem cell injections, PRP injections (Platelet-rich plasma) and injections of other growth factors. Dr. Patel uses ultrasound imaging as well as no-incision in-office arthroscopy to diagnose problems and guide injections to the most favorable locations for maximum effect.

For more, please go to drronakpatel.com.

#maskup #staysafe Biologic Therapies are regeneration techniques which use your body’s natural healing powers by precisely targeting them to your injured joint areas. For a consultation with Dr. Patel to discuss your joint issues, call 630 929 2249 1 550 W. Ogden Avenue, Hinsdale IL 60521


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3 Grant Square, #201 Hinsdale, IL 60521 630-655-3400 www.HinsdaleMag.com Serving Hinsdale, Burr Ridge, Clarendon Hills and Oak Brook. No person, organization or publication can copy or re-produce the content in this magazine or any part of this publication without a written consent from the publisher. The publisher, authors, contributors and designers reserve their rights with regards to copyright of their work. Hinsdale Magazine, Inc. assumes no liability or responsibility for any inaccurate, delayed or incomplete information. The information contained about each individual, event or organization has been provided by such individual, event organizers or organization. The opinion expressed in each article is the opinion of its author and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of Hinsdale Magazine, Inc. Comments are welcome, but they should be on-topic and well-expressed. Copyright ©2019 Hinsdale Magazine, Inc. All rights reserved.


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Hinsdale Magazine | Around Town

Northwest view at Washington Street and Hinsdale Ave. in downtown Hinsdale 16

HinsdaleMag.com | HINSDALE MAGAZINE

Photography by Marcello Rodarte


Phillip’s Flowers features a welcoming entrance for customers of its Hinsdale location on Washington Street. Photography by Marcello Rodarte

Freight train traffic is picking up since the pandemic first hit in March. Photography by Marcello Rodarte

HINSDALE MAGAZINE | HinsdaleMag.com

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Hinsdale Magazine | Around Town

Paula and Doug Fuller, owners of Fuller’s Home & Hardware 18

HinsdaleMag.com | HINSDALE MAGAZINE

Photography by Marcello Rodarte


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Find care right where you need it: near you If you need care now, our Immediate Care centers are open and ready to see you. With the MyEEHealthTM app you can find a location and view wait times online before you go. We’re here to help, and we’ve taken every precaution for your wellbeing and ours. At Edward-Elmhurst Health, we’re driven to make healthcare easier. Download the MyEEHealthTM app or visit EEHealth.org/Easier.

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Hinsdale Magazine | Around Town

Angela Lavelli, owner, CafĂŠ La Fortuna Hinsdale

Chuck Kauffman, owner, The Daily Scoop, Clarendon Hills.

Photography by Marcello Rodarte

Lori McKernin, manager, and Carolyn Saban of Vintage Charm in Hinsdale 22

HinsdaleMag.com | HINSDALE MAGAZINE

Photography by Marcello Rodarte


Nick Rossi, owner, Nick’s Hair Parlor, in business in Hinsdale for 58 years

Photography by Marcello Rodarte

HINSDALE MAGAZINE | HinsdaleMag.com

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Hinsdale Magazine | Travel

ON THE WATER...

Gordy‘s MARINE

320 Lake Street Fontana-on-Geneva Lake, WI 262-275-2163 www.gordysboats.com HINSDALE MAGAZINE | HinsdaleMag.com

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Hinsdale Magazine | Travel

Looking to get out on beautiful Geneva Lake? Gordy’s has added more boats to their ever popular “speed boat rentals”, which rents exclusively Cobalt Boats, as well as kayaks and paddle boards for both hourly and daily rates.

Gordy’s Marine in Fontana, WI has been riding the wave since 1955, when founder Gordon Whowell’s idea of “A millionaire’s thrill for one thin bill” for $1 you could go for a ride around Lake Geneva. While that has changed ever so slightly, they still offer rentals, wake & surf camps, a pro shop, and fantastic dining options.

Suited for all experience levels, Gordy’s Surf/Wake Camps and Ski/Wakeboard Camps run through the summer. Offering both one-day or week-long sessions, campers can work with their highly skilled instructors aboard one of the top ski/wake board surf board boats in the world using the best water sports equipment around. The camps also offer tubing instruction and are available at hourly, half day, and daily rates.

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HinsdaleMag.com | HINSDALE MAGAZINE


Head to Gordy’s popular Boat House restaurant for casual dining in a nautical setting. Known for it’s great lake views (including a second floor private venue) and delicious menu, the Boat House offers a can’t miss Saturday and Sunday Bloody Mary Bar, and convenient come by boat valet parking.

Thirsty for a margarita? Don’t miss Gordy’s super casual Surf Shack seasonal grill, which serves burgers, dogs, brats, ice cream and more. Dine from their lakefront screened porch or outdoor shoreline patio which features live music.

HINSDALE MAGAZINE | HinsdaleMag.com

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200+ Whiskeys & Bourbon 100+ Bottle wine list 18 Wines by the glass 40 Beers + Ciders

provolone, smoked gouda bubbly, golden baked fontina, bacon jam, crostini balsamic onion dip applewood smoked bacon, apricot chutney “the Classic” Jumbo Gulf shrimp in garlic butter

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All sandwiches served with hand cut fries- Gluten free bun now available house blend, Vermont white cheddar, caramelized onions + bacon jam, cabernet aioli Cheddar, thick cut bacon, over easy egg, grape coulis on a pretzel bun cheddar, lettuce, tomato, sweet pickles onion roll, brie, roasted shallot + mushrooms, arugula, horseradish aioli butter poached onion, smoked gouda, chipotle aioli pretzel bun, house made bread + butter pickles, slaw, with zesty sauce honey chipotle slaw, mango salsa served with cajun fries pico de gallo, avocado crema, queso fresco, tortilla strips provolone, smoked gouda bubbly, golden baked fontina, bacon jam, crostini balsamic onion dip applewood smoked bacon, apricot chutney “the Classic” Jumbo Gulf shrimp in garlic butter

white + black sesame seeds, seared rare, ponzu, ginger, wasabi peas red pepper remoulade sauce + grilled lemon breaded cheesy grits with creole sauce add chicken $5 filet $11 shrimp $7 feta, chickpea, kalamata olive, grape tomato, red onion, mustard vinaigrette arugula, toasted almonds, goat cheese, preserved lemon vinaigrette tomato, bacon, blue cheese, red onion, crumbled egg olive oil, aged balsamic, basil, black pepper romaine, tomato, cucumber, red onion, balsamic vinaigrette

All sandwiches served with hand cut fries- Gluten free bun now available house blend, Vermont white cheddar, caramelized onions + bacon jam, cabernet aioli Cheddar, thick cut bacon, over easy egg, grape coulis on a pretzel bun cheddar, lettuce, tomato, sweet pickles onion roll, brie, roasted shallot + mushrooms, arugula, horseradish aioli butter poached onion, smoked gouda, chipotle aioli pretzel bun, house made bread + butter pickles, slaw, with zesty sauce honey chipotle slaw, mango salsa served with cajun fries pico de gallo, avocado crema, queso fresco, tortilla strips

grilled vegetables, charred citrus chimichurri slow roasted beef short ribs, house mashed jumbo Gulf shrimp + Spanish chorizo, scallion, cheesy stone ground grits roasted potatoes + candied brussel sprouts grilled Faroe Island salmon (served medium) with creamy cucumber sauce, sautéed asparagus + tomatoes house blended wagyu meatloaf, crispy fried onion, zesty ketchup, choice of side asparagus, heirloom cherry tomatoes, fresh oregano + basil

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Hinsdale Magazine | Business

Rick Johnson and his daughters Catherine and Elizabeth welcome guests to the store's new bike service.

Photography by Marcello Rodarte

How King Keyser Sporting Goods has adapted

F 36

BY LARRY ATSEFF

or 68 years, King Keyser in downtown Hinsdale has specialized in all things skiing. It has been a very successful run, year after year, with summer sports-gear and sportswear filling in, and the store is well-known as a mecca for snow skiing.

“During the last few weeks of March, I put nothing but zeroes on the sales-tax sheet," owner Rick Johnson said. "I knew the closures and effects of the pandemic were not going to be sustainable. Things were going to have to change."

When the last of another ski season rolled around this year, however, the Coronavirus pandemic's effect on the economy also hit King Keyser.

But first, a bit of background: The store was started by Hal King and Dixon Keyser in 1952.

HinsdaleMag.com | HINSDALE MAGAZINE

This is how Johnson, Jim Loufman, family and employees have adapted.

The two met when both were working at Hinsdale Golf Club, Hal as a tennis pro and Dixon as a swim coach. They had an idea for the perfect niche business that involved products and services that they both were passionate about. Their motto was (and still is): “Skiers helping skiers”. Johnson took over the business in 1996 with partner Loufman.


He admits he had a bit of an inside track to buying the business, as the previous owner Myron Jarosewich treated him like family. An office romance led to him marrying Carolyn Seliga, one of the employees. “Today she still works at the store, and is the employee with more years of service than anyone else," Johnson said. It is still very much a family business, as Rick, Carolyn and their three daughters, Elizabeth, Catherine and Emily, are all avid skiers.

Yet, Johnson said he had respect for the Hartley family and their bicycle store in downtown Hinsdale.

been fixing a lot of them. It is difficult to find bikes to purchase. Inventories are sparse.”

"They have been around for almost as long as us," he said. "I chose not to pursue the bicycle business while they were around.

So today, you can come to King Keyser for bicycle service and expert advice, on a par with the store’s reputation for skiing and sportswear.

But in 2019, Ken Hartley decided to

Some will say King Keyser was just lucky, but success is often timing meeting opportunity.

“During the last few weeks of March, I put nothing but zeros on the sales tax sheet. I knew the closures and effects of the Pandemic were not going to be sustainable. Things were going to have to change.”

Loufman, his wife Mary Ann and their daughter Alexa are also skiers, and at some point in time, everyone has worked in the store.

- RICK JOHNSON

close up shop.

Now, back to the pandemic dilemma. Resorts completely shut down. You couldn’t even ski nearby, except for crosscountry skiing.

As it happens, Henry Deleon, King Keyser’s store manager, had worked for Hartley in the past, and has been a big part of King Keyser’s success at transitioning into bicycle service.

“I started to think about other things we could do," Johnson said. "When growing up, not only did I love to ski, I was also an avid cyclist, and had past bike shop experience working on bikes.”

“With everyone shut-in and staying at home, folks have been looking for something to do," Johnson said. "Many folks have gotten bikes off the wall that haven’t been ridden for years. We have

Johnson still has to contend with the upcoming ski season, and he’s keeping a close eye on what the resorts are doing so he can plan ahead.

If you would like to tell your story of how you have adapted, please give us a call at 708-800-6820, or e-mail larry@hinsdalemag.com.

The Hartley store closed in 2019, giving King Keyser an opportunity to offer bike service and bikes to the community. The response has been encouraging, according to Rick Johnson.

HINSDALE MAGAZINE | HinsdaleMag.com

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Hinsdale Magazine | Education

Hinsdale District 86 fall education plan BY LARRY ATSEFF

For latest updates on the District 86 hybrid plan described here, which was approved on July 23, please visit https://bit.ly/39qQIX3. Updates are provided by superintendent Tammy Prentiss. In addition, for information on District 181 (K-8), go to www.d181.org.

T

his article is to bring readers a review of how educating students will proceed starting Aug. 17 for Hinsdale District 86 students, staff and parents. In addition, it provides a summary of college options parents and students may be considering for this fall and beyond.

District 86 opens school on Aug. 17

Students, parents and staff are following the plan the board of education approved on July 23. Board

president Kevin Camden said it reflects necessary flexibility and caution, given the uncertainties of the COVID-19 pandemic, along with accommodation for students who have traditionally followed individualized schedules. There are many moving parts to this recommendation based on input from the "recoveryrevitalization-restore" committee, a group of 33 parents, district staff and experts who put in considerable time and effort in forming a recommendation. The group took into account state guidelines from state education and health authorities, input from the parentteacher advisory committee and from other local boards. In addition, the board received more than 150 e-mails from interested parents. The main component of the plan is to have students follow a “hybrid” model

without lunch at the outset. Lunch is to be added to the mix sometime during first semester, once safety criteria have been met and space issues for physical education, music and lunch are resolved at Hinsdale Central. The hybrid model divides students into "A" and "B" attendance groups. Classes will meet in-person twice a week and remotely two or three times per week. Wednesdays will be fully remote—classes in the morning, with intervention, remediation and teacher collaboration in the afternoon. On in-person days, to-go lunches will be distributed to the students who want them. Students will not be allowed to eat in school buildings or on buses.

When students are in school buildings, they will be expected to follow these safety protocols: Continued on next page HINSDALE MAGAZINE | HinsdaleMag.com

39


Hinsdale Magazine | Education Continued from the previous page • Participate in a thermal screening when entering the building; • Wear a mask at all times; • Wear a student ID on a District 86 lanyard at all times; • Adhere to social-distancing guidelines of staying six feet apart; • Desks will be disinfected at the end of each class period;

For those students who are unable or are uncomfortable participating in in-person instruction, there will be a 100-percent online/remote program the district is dubbing remote learning 2.0. When students are at home for remote learning, they are expected to check in at class time, visit the Canvas online portal for access to their at-home assignments, and complete the course work on their own or with others, at a teacher’s discretion.

• Adhere to COVID-19 traffic-flow expectations in their building that include hallways, stairwells, entrances/exits and classrooms; and

Camden said the plan has builtin flexibility to move to 100-percent in-person instruction as soon as possible, based on health conditions in the community, county and state; the phase the region is under in the "Restore Illinois" plan; and directives from the county or state. The program is conversely prepared to move to fully remote learning if conditions dictate.

• Adhere to rules and guidelines about food consumption.

Quite a bit was learned at the end of last semester regarding remote learning.

• Sit in assigned seats in designated areas that include buses and classrooms; • Bring personal hand-sanitizer as part of their school supplies;

In addition to extra attention to improve remote-learning skills, students will be encouraged to learn a variety of techniques, such as blogging, online discussions, listening stations/pods, as well as various Internet communication techniques like videos. Throughout the recommendation, there are planning elements to accommodate students with special needs. The plan also covers details on how HVAC systems are to be treated to provide proper air-quality in buildings.

Infographic of Remote Learning 2.0 techniques in District 86

40

HinsdaleMag.com | HINSDALE MAGAZINE


What about college this fall? BY LARRY ATSEFF

For parents and students thinking about college, below are some handy profiles of six leading universities out of nearly 300 in Illinois, plus profiles of eight nearby junior colleges. The data comes from American School Search, a comprehensive online research resource for prospective college students and their parents. It lists over 6,800 colleges across the U.S. Go to american-school-search.com to learn more.

SELECT FOUR YEAR UNIVERSITIES IN CHICAGO, OUT OF 74 Learning Mode: Distance Learning, Study abroad, evening/wknds

Name

Location

Enrollment

Phone

Web Page

# of majors

Concentrations

Student Retention Rate

Grad rate

Transfer Rate

Student/ Faculty Ratio

Tuition/ Fees

Admissions: Acceptance Rates, Ranges for ACT and SAT Scores

Northwestern University

Evanston

21,655

847 491 3741

northwestern.edu

190

Management, Communicatioins, Journalism, Engineering, Business and Medical

97%

95%

NA

7 to 1

$49,200

13% Acceptance Rate, based on ACT and SAT scores, and more

Same

SELECT FOUR YEAR University of Illinois at Chicago UNIVERSITIES IN CHICAGO, OUT OF 74

Chicago

29,050

312 996 7000

uic.edu

147

Medical, Engineering, Biology, Psychology, Nursing

81%

59%

NA

18/1

$27,500

77% Acceptance Rate, ACT Score of 24, SAT of 1130

Same

University of Chicago

Chicago

15,395

773 702 1234

uchicago.edu

Name

Location

Enrollment

Phone

Web Page

91 # of majors

94% Grad rate

NA Transfer Rate

Chicago

16,440

773 274 3000

luc.edu

72%

NA

6 to 1 Student/ Faculty Ratio 14 to 1

$50,300 Tuition/ Fees

Loyola

100% Student Retention Rate 86%

166

Northwestern University

Evanston

21,655

847 491 3741

northwestern.edu

190

DePaul

Chicago

23,540

312 362 8000

depaul.edu

153

University of Illinois at Chicago

Chicago

29,050

312 996 7000

uic.edu

147

Northern Illinois University

DeKalb

20,130

815 752 6800

niu.edu

82

University of Chicago

Chicago

15,395

773 702 1234

uchicago.edu

91

SELECT JUNIOR COLLEGES Loyola AREA IN CHICAGO

Chicago

16,440

773 274 3000

luc.edu

166

DePaul Name

Chicago Location

23,540 Enrollment

Northern Illinois University

DeKalb

20,130

College of DuPage

Glen Ellyn

28,680

630 942 2800

SELECT JUNIOR COLLEGES Elgin CommunityAREA College IN CHICAGO

Elgin

10,340

847 697 1000

Management, Law, Biology, Social Work, Psychology Management, Communicatioins, Journalism, Engineering, Business and Accounting, Finance, Computer Medical Science, Communications and Journalism, Management, Education Medical, Engineering, Biology, Psychology, Nursing Education, Management, Medical, Psychology, Business Business, Management, Social Work, Economics, General Studies

Management, Law, Biology, Social Work, Psychology

Accounting, Finance, Computer Science, Communications and Journalism, Management, Most Popular Education

depaul.edu Web Page

815 752 6800

niu.edu

82

cod.edu

112

Medical, Psychology, Business General Studies, Medical, Nursing, Medical Assistant, and Management

elgin.edu

62

General Studies, Nursing, Biology, Medical Assistant, and Automotive and Mechanic.

Des Plaines Location

Moraine Valley Community College

Palos Hills

9,636

708 974 4300

morainevalley.e du

65

College of DuPage

Glen Ellyn

28,680

630 942 2800

cod.edu

112

jjc.edu

78

elgin.edu harpercollege.e du

62

Joliet Junior College

Joliet

14,945

815 729 9020

Elgin Community College

Elgin

10,340

847 697 1000

Harper College

Palatine

14,535

847 925 6000

Oakton Community College

Des Plaines

9,865

847 635 1600

Morton College

Cicero

4,595

708 656 8000

9,636

708 974 4300

10,515

630 466 7900

oakton.edu Web Page

Medical Assistant, Medical, and 65 # of Computer Science. Most Popular majors

84

oakton.edu

65

morton.edu

33

morainevalley.e du waubonsee.edu

Education, Management,

General Studies, Nursing,

Oakton Community College Name

Moraine Valley Community Palos Hills College Waubonsee Community College Sugar Grove

Concentrations

312 362 8000 Phone

9,865 847 635 1600 Enrollment Phone

#153 of majors

Business, Management, Social Work, Economics, General Studies

65 75

General Studies, Biology, Computer Science, Medical Assistant, Automotive and General MechanicStudies, Medical, Nursing, Medical Assistant, and Management General Studies, Nursing, Automotive and Mechanic and Culinary General Studies, Nursing, Biology, Medical Assistant, and General Studies, Nursing, Automotive and Mechanic. Medical Assistant, Management, Business General Studies, Nursing, Medical Assistant, Medical, and Computer Science. General Studies, Nursing, Biology, Work and Family Studies, Criminal Justice General Studies, Biology, Computer Science, Medical Assistant,Biology, Automotive and Auto General, Nursing, Mechanic and Mechanic, Medical Assistant General Studies, Nursing, Automotive and Mechanic and Culinary

8% Acceptance Rate Admissions: Acceptance Rates, Ranges for ACT and SAT Scores

SameDistance Learning Mode: Learning, Study abroad, evening/wknds

$39,200

71% Acceptance Rate

Same Same Same

97%

95%

NA

7 to 1

$49,200

13% Acceptance Rate, based on ACT and SAT scores, and more

84%

72%

23%

16 to 1

$36,400

72% Acceptance Rate

81%

59%

NA

18/1

$27,500

77% Acceptance Rate, ACT Score of 24, SAT of 1130

Same

72%

53%

NA

15 to 1

$23,900

50% Acceptance Rate

Distance, Study Abroad

100%

94%

NA

6 to 1

$50,300

8% Acceptance Rate

Same

86%

72%

NA

14 to 1

$39,200

Student 84% Retention Rate

72% Grad rate

23% Transfer Rate

Student/ 16 to 1 Faculty Ratio

$36,400 Tuition/ Fees

72% 70%

53%

NA

15 to 1

$23,900

25%

37%

24/1

$13,100

75%

39%

27%

19/1

$12,100

71% Acceptance Rate Admissions: Accept dual credits, credits for life experience 72% Acceptance Rate (independent study, noncredit adult courses, work experience, portfolios, licenses/certificates, advanced placement credit 50% Acceptance Rate Same

Same

Admissions: Accept dual credits, credits for life experience Same (independent study, noncredit adult courses, work experience, portfolios, licenses/certificates, advanced placement Same credit

Same Learning Mode: Distance Learning, Study abroad, Same evening/wknds

Distance, Study Abroad Same

Same

Learning Mode: Distance Learning, Study abroad, Same evening/wknds

Student 73% Retention Rate

23% Grad rate

40% Transfer Rate

Student/ 17/1 Faculty Ratio

$10,900 Tuition/ Fees

66%

26%

31%

21/1

$10,500

70%

25%

37%

24/1

$13,100

Same

Same

66%

17%

35%

22/1

$11,300

Same

Distance Learning, Study Abroad

75%

39%

27%

19/1

$12,100

Same

Same

70%

27%

32%

21/1

$11,300

Same

Same

73%

23%

40%

17/1

$10,900

Same

Same

70%

19%

22%

19/1

$9,900

Same

Distance Learning, Evening/wknd

66%

26%

31%

21/1

$10,500

Same

Same

69%

30%

25%

23/1

$7,600

Same

Same

66%

17%

35%

22/1

$11,300

Same

Distance Learning, Study Abroad

Same

Joliet Junior College

Joliet

14,945

815 729 9020

jjc.edu

78

Harper College

Palatine

14,535

847 925 6000

harpercollege.e du

84

General Studies, Nursing, Medical Assistant, Management, Business

70%

27%

32%

21/1

$11,300

Same

Same

Morton College

Cicero

4,595

708 656 8000

morton.edu

33

General Studies, Nursing, Biology, Work and Family Studies, Criminal Justice

70%

19%

22%

19/1

$9,900

Same

Distance Learning, Evening/wknd

10,515

630 466 7900

waubonsee.edu

75

General, Biology, Nursing, Auto and Mechanic, Medical Assistant

69%

30%

25%

23/1

$7,600

Same

Same

Waubonsee Community College Sugar Grove

HINSDALE MAGAZINE | HinsdaleMag.com

41


Hinsdale Magazine | Education

The value of critical thinking

R

ecently, we read an article on critical thinking for college students by Ransom Patterson of College Info Geek. We thought it was worth sharing, not just for college students, but for everyone else, especially these days, when there are so many unknowns.

“We’re not talking about every day thinking, so automatic you don’t even have to think about it very much,” Patterson writes. Examples of this "automatic thinking" are which brand to choose on the shelf; what to order online; what to have for dinner tonight; and when to get your hair done. He points out it is good that there is automatic thinking, so you have time and energy to think about more important things, such as dealing with personal matters like business decisions for your company; a job change; whether to stay or move; where you work; and how your children will be educated—and, on a larger scale, how to consider the Coronavirus pandemic and how it is affecting our community, the economy and overall direction of the country, now and after the upcoming elections. “We have to be careful not to let our automatic thinking govern important decisions," Patterson said. "For one thing, without critical thinking, it’s easy for people to manipulate us. ... “We also fall into ‘lazy thinking’ like 'ignorant certainty,' the belief that there are definite, correct answers, and all you have to do is find the right source and you take it at face-value. Or we use "naive relativism," the belief that there is no truth and all arguments are equal. Naive relativism is inadequate since it misses the whole point of critical thinking: arriving at a more complete, ‘less wrong’ answer.” As Patterson points out, an important part of thinking critically is evaluating the validity of arguments (yours and others). Therefore, to think critically, you must accept that some arguments are better (and that some are just plain awful). Simply put, instead of using automatic

42

HinsdaleMag.com | HINSDALE MAGAZINE

BY LARRY ATSEFF

thinking on the weighty issues, use critical thinking, a deliberate and systematic processing of information, so that you can make better decisions and generally understand things better. Patterson offers the following seven ways to get better at critical thinking. 1. Ask basic questions Sometimes an explanation becomes so complex that the original question gets lost. To avoid this, continually go back to the basic questions you asked when you set out to solve the problem. Here are a few key basic questions you can ask when approaching any problem, especially weighty ones: • What do you already know? • How do you know that? • What are you trying to prove, disprove, critique, etc.?

" We have to be careful not to let our automatic thinking govern important decisions. For one thing, without critical thinking, it’s easy for people to manipulate us." - RANSOM PATTERSON

• What are you overlooking? Some of the most breathtaking solutions to problems are astounding, not because of their complexity, but because of their elegant simplicity. Seek the simple solution first. 2. Question basic assumptions Some of the greatest innovators in human history were those who simply looked up for a moment, and wondered if one of everyone’s general assumptions was wrong. From Newton to Einstein, questioning assumptions is why innovation happens. You don’t have to be an aspiring Einstein to benefit from questioning your assumptions. That trip you’ve wanted to take? that hobby you’ve wanted to try? changing places of worship? the school for your children when

they graduate? or whether a four-year college is even right—or is college right? All these things can be a better reality if you just question your assumptions, and critically evaluate your beliefs about what’s prudent, appropriate or possible. Patterson also suggests if you’re looking for some help with questioning assumptions, check out "oblique strategies," a tool that musician Brian Eno and artist Peter Schmidt created to aid creative problem-solving. 3. Be aware of your mental processes Human thinking is amazing, but the speed and automation with which it happens can be a disadvantage when you are trying to think critically. A critical thinker is aware of his or her cognitive biases and personal prejudices, and how each influences seemingly “objective” decisions and solutions. All of us have biases in our thinking; becoming aware of them is what makes critical thinking possible. 4. Try reversing things Patterson makes this point: “A great way to get ‘unstuck’ on a hard problem is to try reversing things. It may seem obvious that x causes y, but what if y caused x? The ‘chicken and egg problem’ a classic example of this. At first, it seems obvious that the chicken had to come first. The chicken lays the egg, after all. But then you quickly realize that the chicken had to come from somewhere, and since chickens come from eggs, the egg must have come first—or did it? Even if it turns out that the reverse isn’t true, considering it can set you on the path to finding a solution." 5. Evaluate the existing evidence When you’re trying to solve a problem, it’s always helpful to look at other work that has been done in the same area. There’s no reason to start solving a problem from scratch when someone has already laid the groundwork. It’s important, however, to evaluate this information critically, or else you can easily reach the wrong conclusion. Ask the following questions of any evidence you encounter: • Who gathered this evidence? • How did they gather it? • Why?


Take, for example, a study showing the health benefits of a sugar cereal. On paper, the study sounds pretty convincing, until you learn that a sugar cereal company funded it. You can’t automatically assume that this invalidates the study’s results, but you should certainly question them when a conflict of interest is so apparent. 6. Remember to think for yourself Don’t get so bogged down in research and reading that you forget to think for yourself— sometimes this can be your most powerful tool. Writing about Einstein’s paper “On the Electrodynamics of Moving Bodies," C.P. Snow observed that, “It was as if Einstein ‘had reached the conclusions by pure thought, unaided, without listening to the opinions of others. To a surprisingly large extent, that is precisely what he had done.”

Don’t be overconfident, but recognize that thinking for yourself is essential to answering tough questions. 7. Understand that no one thinks critically 100 percent of the time You can’t think critically all the time, and that’s okay. Critical thinking is a tool that you should deploy when you need to make important decisions or solve difficult problems, but you don’t need to think critically about everything.

successful people are. But it doesn’t hurt to reflect a bit. We hope this quick review helps as you listen to and watch the news, talk to others and contemplate how to make better decisions on important matters. And don’t forget to pass this on—we can use all the critical thinking we can get.

And even in important matters, you will experience lapses in your reasoning. What matters is that you recognize these lapses, and try to avoid them in the future. Chances are you are already a critical thinker; most

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Hinsdale Magazine | Cover Story Hinsdale Magazine | Feature Story

Alexis Braden and Corlyn Simmons

Preserving a Part of Hinsdale Hinsdaleans for Historic Preservation group strives to save historic Hinsdale homes from demolition BY MIKE ELLIS PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARCELLO RODARTE

46

HinsdaleMag.com | HINSDALE MAGAZINE


T

he tear-down phenomenon has been a prevalent aspect of the culture in Hinsdale, Clarendon Hills and surrounding suburbs for the past three decades. The desirability of the schools, safety and convenience of these suburbs have long attracted affluent, successful families, who generally prefer the modern amenities and more spacious interiors of new construction to the older homes that previously stood upon the same lots. In Hinsdale, a community remarkable for its quantity of historic custom homes, a number of residents are trying to encourage the preservation and restoration of these homes, and would like the village to provide homeowners with incentives to do so. Back in late March, while the country was immersed in the heart of the Coronavirus pandemic, a group of concerned residents created Hinsdaleans for Historic Preservation, a private Facebook group dedicated to the preservation of historic homes in Hinsdale, particularly within the Robbins Park Historic District in southeast Hinsdale. Established on the National Register of Historic Places in 2008, this district contains more than 350 properties, and is bounded by Garfield Street and County Line Road to the west and east, and by Chicago Ave. and Eighth Street to the north and south. While most activity stagnated during the pandemic, Hinsdaleans for Historic Preservation flourished, amassing nearly 500 members on Facebook to date, while distributing yard-signs that are visible throughout the village. "The group was started to see if people cared," co-founder Alexis Braden of Hinsdale said. ... "People are sharing their stories of what Hinsdale looked like 50 years ago, 100 years ago." Prior to the group's launch, preservation in Hinsdale was spearheaded by the historic preservation commission, under the leadership of residents such as John and Penny Bohnen, Shannon Weinberger and Sandy Williams. Braden, a current commissioner herself, said Weinberger and other volunteers at the Hinsdale Historical Society

"have devoted countless hours to the preservation of certain buildings in town, and have done an exemplary job bringing [R. Harold] Zook homes and buildings to the forefront." "Just because it doesn't have an open floor-plan doesn't mean it's a tear-down," she said. The prospect of the tearing down of two signature homes—the Dean home, previously owned by the late Howard M. Dean, former chairman and CEO of Dean Foods Co., and the Clarke home, which was owned by an early patriarch of the village—ignited the development of the Hinsdaleans for Historic Preservation group. "These are two of the most iconic homes in Hinsdale," Braden said. "We may lose

" I am 100-percent in favor of restoring historic homes in Hinsdale that are structurally sound. ... There really is beauty to living in an old home—there's nothing quite like it." - CORLYN SIMMONS

these homes, but hopefully they will serve as a wake-up call to residents." Braden said the group's primary objective is to protect homes that are "structurally sound and architecturally significant." The 2008 National Register of Historic Places application lists 11 architects of consequence within the Robbins Park Historic District, two of which are Zook and Philip Duke West. Corlyn Simmons of Hinsdale owns an English Coxwold Tudor that West designed in 1932. Simmons and her husband moved into their current home 22 years ago, and instead of building new, made an effort to restore the home, while balancing the restoration with modern amenities. As part of their project, the

Simmons family conducted historical research, uncovering the original blueprint and a West sketch of their home. Simmons said they found restoration to be a feasible undertaking, and a "very rewarding experience." "We personally had a wonderful experience doing three separate renovations on our home," she said. Upon completing their restoration, Simmons said she was surprised at the number of comments her family received from people expressing pleasure at their undertaking, many of whom they did not know. On the other hand, she said it is disappointing that over the same period, a number of West homes in the village have been torn down. West, the architect of the current Hinsdale police and fire stations, designed upwards of 40 homes in the village about the same period that his more famous counterpart Zook flourished; but more than a dozen of these houses have been demolished since 1998. Simmons said she "sees both sides" to the tear-down quandary, but encourages homeowners to investigate the possibility of preserving their homes, while exhorting the village to provide incentives for restoration. "I am 100-percent in favor of restoring historic homes in Hinsdale that are structurally sound," she said. ... "There really is beauty to living in an old home— there's nothing quite like it." Hinsdaleans for Historic Preservation proposed a 180-day moratorium on tear-downs, which the Hinsdale plan commission opposed by a 4-to-2 vote at its June meeting. Plan commission chairman Steve Cashman said he would prefer leaving more personal discretion with homeowners. "If it's an ugly house, it will go away; but I don't think we should tell our neighbors what their house should look like," Cashman said at the meeting. Commissioners Julie Crnovich and Michelle Fisher supported the moratorium, arguing that more than 2,000 homes in Hinsdale—which translates to

Continued on next page HINSDALE MAGAZINE | HinsdaleMag.com

47


Hinsdale Magazine | Cover Story

"People are sharing their stories of what Hinsdale looked like 50 years ago, 100 years ago." - ALEXIS BRADEN

Continued from the previous page upwards of a third of the village's housing stock—have been torn down. Braden said while the group endorses a moratorium, it is now more focused on providing preservation incentives for homeowners, and showing that "a home worth saving can be saved." "We know not every home can or should be saved," she said. At the June 16 Hinsdale village board meeting, village president Tom Cauley proposed an historic preservation plan to encourage the preservation of homes in Hinsdale. Among the prospective incentives being discussed is a tax rebate for owners of historic homes in the village. Cashman said he would like any question involving possible tax rebates to 48

HinsdaleMag.com | HINSDALE MAGAZINE

be presented to residents as an advisory referendum before it would be voted upon by the village board. For new construction that is undertaken, Braden said the preservation commission would like to work with architects and

builders on "preserving consistency on a given block or within the neighborhood." "Preserving those streetscapes is really important," she said, "because that's what you see when you come to town."



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D I V E H E A RT I N D E P T H

RUTHANNE AVES

Ruthanne Aves loves giving back BY WENDY FOSTER

It was a perfect match. Ruthanne Aves visited Diveheart's booth at a scuba diving expo several years ago. "I had been a special education teacher at a junior high school for 34 years," Aves said. "When I saw what Diveheart does, I was so excited to see how I could put two loves together: diving and working with people with disabilities." Aves first started diving in 1991, but wasn't able to pursue it actively until she retired and moved to Chicago three years ago. She became a certified dive-buddy two years ago on a Diveheart trip to Cozumel, and she volunteers with the organization as often as she is able. "I am usually part of a team assigned to help a specific diver on a given dive," Aves said. "The number of people on a

team varies, depending on the amount of assistance the adaptive diver requires. It's an incredible feeling to watch the look on the face of the adaptive diver as they become weightless and can move in ways that they may never have been able to before. Sharing that experience is so much more intense and satisfying than just diving for recreation had been for me." Aves was happy to roll up her sleeves and produce masks for use during the COVID-19 pandemic. "I heard people were making masks, and I was excited that I could contribute in that way," she said. She learned that Chicago's Shirley Ryan AbilityLab was gratefully accepting masks "so that patients could have their caregivers visit, and receive training to aid

in their recovery." This really resonated with me," Aves said, recalling that she'd been diving with a young man who had spent four months at the ability lab after a severe injury left him a person with quadriplegia. She has since sewn and donated more than 130 masks for the ability lab in his honor, another 30 to a Diveheart volunteer for his daughter's wedding, and is sewing more for a senior living community. She's also made many for friends and neighbors. “Ruthanne is a generous volunteer," Diveheart president and founder Jim Elliott said. "We are so fortunate that Diveheart has benefited from her time and her kindness."

HINSDALE MAGAZINE | HinsdaleMag.com

53


Hinsdale Magazine | Local Appreciation

Officers, left to right, Robert Wirth, Megan Garcia and Ryan Husarik, next to appreciation banner

Burr Ridge shows its police force some love

T

BY LARRY ATSEFF

here has been a lot of talk in the last few weeks regarding how communities regard their police force.

Burr Ridge mayor Gary Grasso decided to step up and show his town’s police force, consisting of more than 30 members, some gratitude and appreciation for the job they do.

In fact, a national survey by Monmouth University in early June asked respondents how satisfied they were with their local police force. The results to one key question—“how satisfied are you with the job your local police department does?”—reveal that 41 percent are "very satisfied" and 30 percent are "somewhat satisfied."

“We want the Burr Ridge Police Department to know that Burr Ridge respects the job they do, and how important they are in supporting and protecting the community," Grasso said. On July 12, just a little before one 12-hour shift finished and another was to begin, community leaders threw a barbecue for the police force and their families right at the police station.

“I knew people in town are appreciative, as they have been bringing meals regularly to the police department, and thanking those on duty," Burr Ridge police chief John Madden said. "This today blows me away.” A lot of the officers and their families were out in full force, enjoying the appreciation. Grasso said, “You can expect the event to grow in the future.”

Completely underwritten by two private citizens, the event was catered by Mission BBQ, located in nearby Downers Grove. This chain takes pride in taking special care of first responders. Indeed, a Mission BBQ team rolled up in a 2.5-ton all-black military truck, and proceeded to put out a delicious spread of barbecue pulled pork, spare ribs, brisket, sides of corn bread, beans and more. Burr Ridge police patch 54

HinsdaleMag.com | HINSDALE MAGAZINE


Police chief John Madden

Deputy chief Mark Loftus

Mayor Grasso enthusiastically thanked the police and their families Some of the police officers and their families listening to words of appreciation from Burr Ridge mayor Gary Grasso

Mission BBQ catering the event HINSDALE MAGAZINE | HinsdaleMag.com

55


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Hinsdale Magazine | Spotlight

58

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Century of service

How and why Darvin Furniture & Mattress is celebrating 100 years in business

T

BY SCOTT JONLICH | HINSDALE MAGAZINE

he century mark is an impressive achievement, whether you are a person, an entity like a community or a business—especially a furniture business—especially in these times.

Think of all the furniture stores that have come and gone over the past 100 years. And, of course, we’re in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic, one of the worst health calamities to affect the entire world since the Spanish flu epidemic of 1918.

After all, furniture and furnishings are not something you buy every day, like groceries. In fact, over time, in a typical family life-cycle, it may buy only one or two sets of living-room, dining-room or bedroom furniture for mom and dad and the kids.

So, how has Darvin not only lasted but grown and prospered to the point where over 300 employees are serving customers every day in its 200,000-square-foot showroom location in Orland Park?

Add to that the fact that Darvin Furniture has only one location.

Hinsdale Magazine met with Will Harris, president of Darvin Furniture since January. Harris joined Darvin,

because he saw parallels with his experience in his family furniture business in New Hampshire. He directs all day-to-day operations in sales and marketing and the distribution center in Mokena, and he works closely with Steve and Marty Darvin, who are still very active in the business daily. According to Harris, there are five reasons for the success of Darvin Furniture: first, the way the company’s founder Louis Darvin served customers from his first days in Chicago; second, keeping ownership and management within the family, from founder Louis Continued on next page HINSDALE MAGAZINE | HinsdaleMag.com

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Hinsdale Magazine | Spotlight Continued from the previous page

to his son David and David’s sons Marty and Steve; third, continually surrounding management with extremely knowledgeable staff; fourth, an unbeatable combination of highquality furniture, many brands to choose from, low prices and attractive finance; and fifth, a loyal following of customers and their families who have come to love the “Darvin experience.”

thing has always remained constant: our commitment to running Darvin Furniture has always been anchored by a heightened focus on integrity. Earning our customers’ business each time they come into our showroom has helped create generations of loyal customers.”

door using catalog pictures,” Harris said, adding that over time, the word spread, and Darvin became known as a furniture expert, offering highquality furniture and low prices. And the customer base began to grow. As soon as he was old enough, son David became Louis's business partner, and they opened their first store in Chicago in the early 1940s.

“We have always been focused on our family-owned principles. To earn the trust and confidence of our customers, we have a longstanding tradition that includes providing a highly-trained staff.”

“We have always been focused on our familyowned principles," Steve Darvin said. "To earn the trust and confidence of our customers, we have a longstanding tradition that includes providing a highly-trained staff. While we have experienced many changes in ten decades, including five different locations during those 100 years, one

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Harris understands and respects the meaning of hard work and dedication to customers is priority number one.

According to Harris, in the 1970s, David's sons Steve and Marty also joined the family business. After David's passing in 2005, Steve and Marty continued their father's and grandfather's tradition of selling quality furniture at low prices, along with exceptional service to their valued customers.

“Louis Darvin began the business in 1920 by selling furniture door to

“Our professional staff of over 300 associates are attentive, knowledgeable

- STEVE DARVIN


and value their customer's business,” Harris said. “There are 75 sales consultants who are experts in their field and always ready to assist customers.”

Canadel, Bernhardt, Daniel's Amish, Stanley, England and Michael Amini, affording them a one-stop furniture shopping experience in a 200,000-square-foot showroom.

Marty Darvin has been there during all the employee hires over the years.

“On top of that, we have a 35,000 square-foot clearance and outlet center right in the building,” Harris said. “Add to that, our Darvin Mattress Store features all the brands like Simmons Beautyrest, Sealy Posturpedic, Serta Perfect Sleeper, i-Comfort, Restonic, Aireloom and Tempur-Pedic mattresses. When it’s all in one place, there’s no need to go from store to store.”

“Our employees are part of our family," he said. "It has always been that way, and we know that to ensure a true Darvin experience, we have to have employees who care enough to provide that effort every day in the

The Darvins have learned from history when it comes to doing right by the customers and business partners. “Our relationship with our vendors and business partners has always played a huge part in our ability to offer the quality and value Darvin is known for,” Steve Darvin said, adding that right after World War II, there were

governmental limits and restrictions put on the availability of merchandise. However, these didn’t hit customers too hard, because Darvin always paid bills on time, and accordingly received full access to merchandise due to its commitment to vendors. Today, Harris guides Darvin in the same tradition. The company’s attention to service starts the moment our customers walk in and make their selection. They can pick up their items at Darvin's distribution center in Mokena, just 15 minutes from the Orland Park location on U.S. Rte. 45. “Our father taught us to run the business with unwavering attention to providing our customers with a great shopping experience," Steve Darvin said, "and to always remain close to our family of employees."

LOUIS DARVIN

showroom and behind the scenes in the office.” Steve said that having a presence in the store was important to him and Marty. “On most days, you could find one or both of us on the showroom floor, where we could meet our customers and reassure our employees that our commitment to the business was not just words," he said. Darvin Furniture also offers free design services when making a purchase. “Our team of design specialists can help customers plan or coordinate customer’s furnishing needs in the store or home," Harris said. "I will stack them up with any group in the furniture business anywhere, not just in Chicago, but anywhere in the country." Customers can find all the highprofile brands like Trisha Yearwood, Century, Lane, Flexsteel, Bassett,

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Hinsdale Magazine | Around Town

Village crosswalk art on Prospect Ave. in downtown Clarendon Hills 62

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Photography by Marcello Rodarte


The Hinsdale Memorial Building, home to the village hall and public library

Photography by Marcello Rodarte

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Hinsdale Magazine | Around Town

A south view of downtown Hinsdale is the backdrop of the new clock tower donated by the Hinsdale Rotary Club. 64

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Photography by Marcello Rodarte


Allison Kapa, manager of Phillip’s Flowers and Gifts in Hinsdale on Washington Street

Photography by Marcello Rodarte

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Hinsdale Magazine | Around Town

Stacy Tanner Lorin, owner of Yankee Peddler, with her shop dog Otto on Hinsdale Ave. Photography by Marcello Rodarte

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HinsdaleMag.com | HINSDALE MAGAZINE


James Nash of James Joseph Salon on Hinsdale Ave. Photography by Marcello Rodarte

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