Published by the Highland Park Chamber of Commerce
SUMMER 2013
HELLER NATURE CENTER: A HONEY OF A PLACE P/10
The Briergate Business District: Open for More Business P/26
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V E R Y D A Y
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IT’S ALL THERE
AT THE SQUARE ADESSO BLUE CAT CAFÉ DAIRY QUEEN EDWARD JONES FLYWHEEL SPORTS HIGHLAND PARK CHIROPRACTIC MATHNASIUM
NEW BALANCE NORTH SHORE PORT CLINTON JEWELERS REAL URBAN BARBEQUE STATIONERY STATION SUSHI BADAYA TALES & TOYS WALKER BROTHERS
ALX HAIR SALON
PORT CLINTON SQUARE THE SQUARE IN THE CENTER OF DOWNTOWN HIGHLAND PARK ON CENTRAL AVENUE Indoor Parking, 3 Hours Free
847.433.5306 www.PortClintonSquare.com
HIGHLAND PARK CHAMBER OF COMMERCE www.chamberhp.com 508 Central Avenue, Suite 206 Highland Park, Illinois 60035 847-432-0284 • fax 847-432-2802
[email protected] Chamber Staff Virginia Anzelmo Glasner | Executive Director Alycia Margolis | Communications Renee Diedrichs | Bookkeeper board of DIRECTORS Executive Committee President | Sue Monhait, The Ribbon Print Company VP | Scott Weinstein, Scott Weinstein, Esq. VP | Gurv Anand, Amber Insurance Services Treasurer | Bruce Babbini, Highland Park Bank & Trust directors Larry Bloom | ATI Graphics, Inc. Hania Fuschetto | NorthShore University HealthSystem, Highland Park Hospital Victoria Henderson | United States Post Office Evan Kane | Nina Weiss / Art Endeavors Fine Art Studio Ryan Newberry L’Heureux | @ Properties Mindy Moore | Ravinia Festival Sheryl Oberman | The Stationery Station Olivia Paitich | High Power Electrical Services, Inc. Julie Yusim | Duxler Complete Auto Care EX OFFICIO Alyssa Knobel | City Councilman Steve Meyer | Park District of Highland Park Ghida Neukirch | Deputy City Manager PUBLICATION NOTES
[email protected] Editorial | Virginia A. Glasner, Executive Editor Maureen Liebenson, Editor Chamber Staff, Editorial Support Graphic Design | Bohringer Creative, Inc. Bohringer.com Cover Photo | Park District of Highland Park Printing | Vogue Printers Sales & Marketing | Michael Bloomquist,
[email protected] Ian Glasner,
[email protected] Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this publication. The publishers cannot guarantee the correctness of all the information available to them at the time of publication, and assume no liability arising from error or omission. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use of any part of this publication without the prior expressed written permission of the Highland Park Chamber of Commerce is strictly prohibited.
six00threefive TM © 2013 Highland Park Chamber of Commerce, published to promote the diverse business community
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Becker Architects Limited Photo credit © 2012 Darris Lee Harris
SUMMER 2013
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Summer Splash
dive into summer style at renaissance Place, where you’ll find the season’s latest styles, dazzling home décor, pampering services and more, right in the heart of downtown Highland Park. look for the newly renovated renaissance place cinema’s Grand re-opening this summer chico’s chipotle mexican Grill D.h. mattix Francesca’s collections Jamba Juice • Jos. a. bank kenzy GiFts & Décor l’occitane • m salon pottery barn renaissance place cinema starbucks Verizon Wireless Williams-sonoma
On Our Cover Heller Nature Center: A Honey of a Place……………12-15 Photo of Heller Nature Center Beekeepers courtesy of Park District of Highland Park Features
Hot Fun in the Summertime: Sidewalk Sale…………16-17 HPHS Theatre Department: Acting Lessons = Life Lessons…………………………18-19 Ravinia’s Steans Music Institute: 25 Years of Music Magic………………………………… 25 The Briergate Business District: Open for MORE Business…………………………… 26, 28 It’s New To You……………………………………………30-31 Takin’ Care of Business: A Conversation with Carolyn Hersch and Ghida Neukirch……………………… 32 Columns
Speaking Professionally …………………………………… 6-7 Welcome, New Members………………………………… 8-9 Contractors’ Corner………………………………………22-23 Contact Us
Please call 847-432-0284 or email
[email protected], and be sure to make your subject line helpful! Contact Our ColumnistS
Please call 847-432-0284, or email
[email protected] with the column name in your subject line. “Speaking Professionally” announces honors, awards, and other news about service and non-profit organizations ~ by Wes Wenk “Contractors’ Corner” offers news of our fine building, designing, mechanical, and contracting professionals ~ by Rick Glickman “It’s New to You”
three hours of
Free parkinG in our underground garage. In downtown HIgHland Park 1849 green Bay road • 847.926.4208 regUlar HoUrS: Mon – Sat 10aM – 6PM tHUrS 10aM – 8PM • SUn 12 – 5PM renaissanceplaceonline.com
Professionally Managed by
highlights new businesses in our community ~ by Maureen Mostyn Liebenson Write Now!
We have assignments for freelance writers and community volunteers. Please call 847-432-0284, or email
[email protected]. Advertising Information
Six00threefive magazine is published three times a year and mailed to all the homes and businesses in Highland Park, Highwood, and Town of Fort Sheridan. To receive a complete Media Kit, please call the Highland Park Chamber of Commerce at 847-833-6768 or email
[email protected]
201,000 MAGAZINES MAILED MONTHLY TO SELECT HOMEOWNERS - TO ADVERTISE CALL: (847) 719-8429
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SUMMER 2013
Index of Advertisers @ properties - Robin Wilson…………………………… 24 @ properties - Ryan Newberry L’Heureux…………… 14 Amdur Productions……………………………………… 23 The Art Center—Highland Park………………………… 21 Becker Architects………………………………………… 1 Bishop Heating ………………………………………… 31 Bluegrass………………………………………………… 12 CapTel…………………………………………………… 31 Carefree Comfort………………………………………… 27
Beauty begins with
beautiful skin and a healthy body
College of Lake County………………………………… 15 Crossroads Carwash…………………………………… 23 D & R Autoworks………………………………………… 27 Dream Kitchens………………………………………… 3 Dunkin’ Donuts…………………………………………… 20 Duxler Complete Auto Care…………………………… 21 Fresh Skin………………………………………………… 5
At FreshSkin we combine evidence-based internal and external treatments to help you achieve the goal of looking as good as you feel and feeling as good as you look!
Highland Park Bank & Trust…………………………… 19 Highland Park Community House……………………… 29 Infinity Foundation……………………………………… 12 Irina Makkai Classical Ballet & Dance School………… 29 Keyth Security Systems, Inc.……………………… 13, 15 Lash L’Heureux Coterie………………………………… 15 Little Tommy’s Plumbing………………………………… 21
Call
847-380-3673 or visit MyFreshSkin.com
for a complimentary consultation!
Loree’s Closet…………………………………………… 14 North Shore Chinese Medicine ……………………… 9 North Shore College Counseling……………………… 28 North Shore School of Dance………………………… 4 NorthShore University HealthSystem……… Back Cover Paint JAR………………………………………………… 27 Park District of Highland Park………………………… 14 Port Clinton Square…………………… Inside Front Cover Pure Air…………………………………………………… 30 Renaissance Place……………………………………… 2
face magic Dr. Josie Tenore is MD, MSc performs one of the most natural liquid face lifts in the area utilizing a number of services including wrinkle relaxers, fillers, laser treatments and medical grade skin care products.
Rick’s Auto Care & Collision Repair…………………… 29 State Farm Joe Palminteri……………………………… 24 Therapeutic Kneads …………………………………… 24 Wenk Insurance Agencies……………………………… 20 Whitehall of Deerfield………………… Inside Back Cover
Reach 70,000 people today! with print and online versions of 60035
email
call Michael at 847-833-6768
[email protected]
to get started!
body magic Dr. Ryan Lombardo, DAOM is the weight loss, wellness, & longevity expert. He combines hormones, nutrition, herbal medicine and acupuncture to help you get your “mojo” back.
Aesthetic Medicine Center • 806 Central Park, Suite 203 Highland Park, Illinois SUMMER 60035 2013
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Speaking
PROFESSION
Heard About The Hearing Wellness Center? The Highland Park business community continues to add and expand all types of professional services, from new medical and dental offices, to rehab and fitness facilities. Now the North Suburban Wellness Center at 1723 First Street is proud to announce the Photo: HP Chamber of Commerce 6
SUMMER 2013
Dr. Kaye recommends musicians wear custom high-fidelity earplugs known as “musician plugs” as often as possible. She also urges musicians to attend regular hearing screenings and to listen to recordings with external speakers instead of ear buds.
PLUGIN workspace: Everything but a Secretary
Dr. Kaye has wide-ranging experience in the diagnosis and intervention of hearing loss caused by a myriad of reasons (loud music is certainly not the singular culprit). In addition, she has been a leader in the advancement of auditory processing disorder testing, which includes vestibular (balance) disorders. It’s easy to ignore or dismiss hearing loss in this age of email and other forms of non-oral communication. But it can sneak up on you, so we’re fortunate to have a professional like Dr. Kaye joining the community to help with hearing issues when they do occur. Call
How many times have you heard someone brag, “my office is anywhere that has Wi-Fi”? It’s someone like that that you’ll find taking up a table all day with their laptop at a coffee shop. If you don’t want to be that guy or that gal, but you don’t have a traditional office to go to, check out PLUGIN workspace at 1770 First Street. Owner Mark Rosen explains that “today’s North Shore independent and freelance professionals, consultants, and startups have a new resource for working. Our innovative shared-office concept is a growing trend worldwide. Memberships range from full-time to occasional use, and offer shared desks and work areas, as well as conference rooms equipped for presentations, phone and Skype calling, and training.” “Our goal,” explained Rosen, “is to provide a modern professional workplace that caters to highly productive workers whose business tools consist of a laptop computer, a cell phone, and their knowledge and skills. These shared workspaces have been located in large urban centers
Photo: ATI Graphics, Inc.
“Consider a student and her flute. During several hours of practice each day, the student is exposed to between 95 and 112 decibels, roughly equivalent to the sound of an active construction site or the noise experienced from close proximity to a jet engine. Even a violin generates between 84 and 103 decibels, therefore because the instrument is held so close to the violinist’s ear, maximum daily exposure should be limited to one hour (which is
her at 847-266-8000 or email her at
[email protected].
“Music-induced hearing loss can occur when someone of any age is repeatedly exposed to high decibel sound levels generated by musical instruments,” she points out. “The problem is often compounded by long periods of exposure to music played at high volume levels using headphones or ear buds, and a digital playback unit such as an iPod or MP3 player.”
Dr. Alison Kaye
addition of The Hearing Wellness Center, founded by Dr. Alison Kaye, a practicing audiologist since 1994. Her practice includes clients ranging in age from the elderly to the very young. Of the latter, music students—even those playing seemingly “quiet” instruments like the violin and flute—are particularly at risk for significant hearing loss because of the hours and hours of practice they undertake, says Dr. Kaye.
well under the typical time devoted to practicing by a serious student).”
Freelancers, entrepreneurs, part-timers, and others share space at PLUGIN workspace.
ALLY
By Wes Wenk, Wenk Insurance
as well as small cities. It was time to bring this concept to Highland Park, as the number of independent and freelance workers, entrepreneurs, and part-timers is growing dramatically due to competitive and economic pressures and business trends.”
Be pampered at bluemercury.
Welcome to bluemercury The southwest corner of Central Street and Second Street is the new location for bluemercury, a spa and beauty product boutique that carries over 100 indulgent beauty brands. Once the home of HP’s Corner Bakery, the building is now painted with bluemercury’s signature colors, blue and white. bluemercury, Inc., is the country’s largest luxury beauty products and spa retail chain. The company’s founders and owners, Barry and Marla Beck, aim to bring customers the best
Wes Wenk
personal care products in the world, and to provide an exceptional spa experience. “bluemercury offers a truly unique shopping experience. Clients receive valuable product knowledge and friendly service,” Marla Beck points out. Barry Beck adds, “In addition to skincare, makeup, hair care, and fragrance products, clients can book a small makeup session or party for friends or family, and be pampered by skincare experts in our spa, which is home to the ultimate in results-oriented treatments such as our world-renowned oxygen facials, glycolic peels, waxing, and microdermabrasion.”
Our town gives new meaning to the term “Dog Days of Summer” this year. Downtown Highland Park has been home to over 20 eight- by ten-foot steel dog sculptures created by nationally known artist Dale Rogers. The works are a big hit with residents and visitors as they shop and stroll through Port Clinton Square and Renaissance Place, up and down Central Avenue, and in front of City Hall. Photo: Dale Rogers
Photo: Jamroz Photography
The shared workspace business segment has been expanding with triple digit growth over the last few years. If you’re a member of this category, PLUGIN workspace might be just what you’re looking for. Come take a look, or call PLUGIN workspace at 312-493-7129. You can also email Rosen at
[email protected].
Fun Unleashed in Highland Park
But don’t think all the store’s luxe products and treatments are intended solely for women. bluemercury also caters to a male clientele, offering services and products geared to men’s hair care, skincare, and shaving needs. The Becks invite you to visit the new store and browse your favorite sections. For more information on bluemercury spa services or makeup application appointments, or to inquire about hosting an event at the HP location, stop by or call 847-432-7200. Wes Wenk covers professional endeavors, including nonprofit organizations and financial, medical, legal, and consulting businesses based in homes or offices. He can be reached at wenkinsurance.com or by fax at 847-433-1345.
SUMMER 2013
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Welcome, NEW MEMBERS as of JUNE 2013
Taste of
Highland Park
Apex Kitchen & Bath Kitchen and bath design showroom. Lou Plevritis, Manager 9346 N. Waukegan Road Morton Grove, IL 60053 847-965-8330
apexkitchens.com
B Beautiful Salon & Spa Luxury salon and spa. Beata Vaynberg, President/Owner 784 Central Avenue 847-650-2700
bbeautifulhp.com
Highland Park’s most festive weekend is kicking off early this year with the Taste of Highland Park opening at 11:00 AM on Friday, August 23rd on Central Avenue in Downtown Highland Park and running in conjunction with the Port Clinton Art Festival all weekend long. Enjoy 260 artists, lunch and dinner al fresco, live music and libations from many of Highland Park’s most notable restaurants, as well as live music from celebrated bands and performers all weekend long at the Taste of Highland Park and the Port Clinton Art Festival. This year, festivalgoers will get to enjoy a true “taste” with many of the participating restaurants offering “bites for a buck” all weekend long! And, be sure to visit the Chamber’s Beer & Wine Tent at the Taste! All proceeds from this booth will be used to provide quality Chamber programs and services for Highland Park businesses and community.
Benjamin Tapas Restaurant specializing in the “Tastes of Spain.” Benjamin Brittsan, Executive Chef/Owner 1849 Second Street 847-748-8737
benjaminrestaurant.com bloOuts
: blow dry bar Hair styling. Vivian Arpino, Owner 1872 Sheridan Road 847-681-9180
bloouts.com
Blue Cat Café Serving Intelligentsia coffees, lunch, pastries, beer, and wine. Jack Borys, Owner 600 Central Avenue, Suite 115 847-875-3201
bluecatcafe.net
Career Resource Center
Confidence-building, re-employment resource featuring individualized attention and coaching by industry professionals. Jan Lahey, Executive Director 40 E. Old Mill Road Lake Forest, IL 60045 847-295-5626
careerresourcecenter.org
College of Lake County Offering associate and career degrees, business training, workforce development, English as a second language, and continuing education. Jan Bauer, Director, Ill. Small Business Development Center 19351 West Washington Street Grayslake, IL 60030 847-543-2059
clcillinois.edu/cps
Cos Bar of Highland Park Beauty boutique that carries a collection of the world’s best luxury cosmetic and perfume brands. Oliver Garfield, VP 662 Central Avenue 847-432-6249
cosbar.com
Creative AV Concepts Offering video and audiotape services, including transfer of home videos to DVD and audiocassettes to CD-R. Don Chapman, Owner 1500 Old Deerfield Road Suite #13 847-831-5830
creativetransfer.net
Dijis Home Tech Solutions Providing designs and installs for homes and business of audio, video, and phone systems; networks; video surveillance; digital signage; HVAC lighting; and more. Devin Stites, Owner Northbrook, IL 60062 847-520-1348
www.dijis.com
Helping Hands Massage & Chiropractic, Inc. Chiropractic and massage therapy. Jose Aguilar, Chiropractic Physician 332 Skokie Valley Road, Suite #104 847-322-2807
helpinghandsmassageandchiropractic.com Highland Park BP Full-service station with over 50 years servicing Highland Park. Donald Mclellan, Manager 695 Central Avenue 847-433-1866
highlandparkbp.com
Homewatch Caregivers Northshore Offering in-home care services and homemaker support for people recovering or rehabilitating in their own residence or at a facility. Denise Beaufait, Community Relations Liaison 900 Skokie Blvd. Suite 126 Northbrook, IL 60062 847-480-5700
thehomecarespot.com
Knit with Nat Fundamental knitting instruction. Natalie Miller, Owner 1220 Park Avenue West, #125 847-432-5216
knitwithnat.com
Maverick Software Design Computer programmers specializing in the design and development of database applications for businesses of all sizes. Ken Tempkin, Owner 508 Central Avenue, Suite #200 847-864-3600
mavsoft.com
Merlo’s Italian Restaurant.
John Merlo, President 581 Roger Williams Avenue 847-266-0600
merlosrestaurant.com
Nina Weiss/Art Endeavors Fine Art Studio Fine art painting studio; teaching and creative meeting space. Nina Weiss, Owner, Artist 3150 Skokie Highway, Suite #12 847-840-0527
ninaweiss.com
North Shore College Consulting Providers of comprehensive guidance through the college preparation, selection, and application process. Debbie Kantor, Independent College Consultant P.O. Box 341 Highland Park, IL 60035 847-609-6112
nscollegeconsulting.net
North Shore Photo Booth
State-of-the-art photo booth for parties and other events. Jonathan Schoenberg, President 1500 Bluestem Lane Glenview, IL 60026 847-922-5466
northshorephotobooth.com
Call the Highland Park Chamber of Commerce at 847-432-0284 to be referred to a local resource or browse an up-to-date directory at: www.chamberhp.com. North Star Benefits, LLC
North Star Benefits provides comprehensive insurance and benefit planning solutions for personal & corporate clients, specializing in the areas of life, health, disability & long term care insurance. Michael Mazursky, President 332 Skokie Valley Road Suite 221 847-831-8831
nsinsure.com
PLUGIN workspace Offering shared office space for independent, freelance, dislocated, start-up, and other professionals. Mark Rosen, Founder & Owner 1770 First Street, # 200A 312-493-7129
pluginworkspace.com
Primerica Advisors Investment Advisor Representative for life insurance, securities, mutual funds, and annuities. Stephen Prior, Senior Representative 1601 Feehanville Drive, Suite #600 Mt Prospect, IL 847-780-4330
primerica.com/smprior Pure Air Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc. Specializing in keeping families on the North Shore warm and cool, safe and comfortable since 1974. 3010 N. Lake Terrace Glenview, IL 60026 847-724-8188
pure-comfort.com
Ragsdale, Inc. Residential and commercial painting and decorating; furniture and cabinetry finishing.
Grace Ragsdale, Business Manager 709 Sheridan Road Lake Bluff, IL 60044 847-234-4567
Renaissance Chicago North Shore North Shore luxury hotel with meeting space and event venues. Rik Blyth, General Manager 933 Skokie Boulevard 847-498-6500
marriott.com/hotels/travel/ chinb-renaissance-chicago-northshore-hotel/ Royal Appointments A unique specialty store featuring gifts for women, men, babies, and the home. Debra Brody, Owner 447 Central Ave 847-559-8111
royalappointmentsonline.com Scott Weinstein-PHH Home Loans A full service residential mortgage lender, offering conventional, FHA, VA, jumbo loans and more. Scott Weinstein, Senior Mortgage Consultant 707 Skokie Blvd. #707 Northbrook, IL 60062 224-803-2525
mymortgageguyscott.com
Spectrum Training Services Providing effective workplace safety training to ensure a decrease in job site injuries, accidents, and deaths. Tami Gilbert, Owner 947 Harvard Court 312-218-1744
illinoisoshatraining.com State Farm Brian Shamash Agency Providing insurance and also banking and other financial services to individuals and small businesses.
The Tranel Financial Group Offering full-service financial strategies.
Jason Mims, Financial Advisor 1509 N. Milwaukee Ave Libertyville, IL 60048 847-680-9050
TranelFinancial.com
Urban Balance Offering comprehensive counseling and therapy services to individuals, couples, families, and groups dealing with mental health, addiction, relationships, and career issues. Bridget Levy, Psychotherapist and Director of Business Development 580 Roger Williams Avenue Suite #2 888-726-7170
urbanbalance.com
Winger Marketing An integrated marketing communications firm offering marketing solutions to meet businesses goals.
Karolyn Raphael, President & Owner 580 Roger Williams Avenue Suite #23 312-494-0422
wingermarketing.com
Zzz’s by Ashley Providing insightful information to guide the mattress selection process. 85 Skokie Valley Road 224-250-2202
zzzsbyashley.com ashleyfurniturehomestores.com
Brain Shamash, Agent/Owner 1910 First Street, #300 847-926-7123
northshoreinsuranceagent.com
ragsdaleinc.com
Ravinia Green Country Club Member-owned private country club. Rick Coffey, Membership Sales & Marketing Director 1200 Saunders Road Riverwoods, IL 60015 847-945-6200
raviniagreen.com
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Heller Nature Center: By Leah Holloway
Tucked away in the northwest corner of Highland Park, Heller Nature Center is owned and operated by the Park District of Highland Park. Almost 100 acres of oak-hickory savanna, pine forest, and tallgrass prairie offer three miles of winding trails and so much more. It is an ideal place to experience and learn about nature.
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Now that we are in the middle of summer, large colorful dragonflies patrol the Center’s prairies and Overlook Pond, scooping up insects and keeping the mosquito population down naturally. It is also the season of honey at Heller. The bees have worked hard all spring and summer to collect pollen and nectar from local wildflowers and have turned these into the sweet, nutritious honey that Heller’s beekeepers harvest and bottle.
Heller Honey is available for sale in one-pound jars at the Center. All proceeds go back into the beekeeping program that helps staff to care for the bees and to educate the public on the importance of honeybees in our ecosystem. “We will harvest again at the end of July,” said Heller Naturalist and Beekeeper Jessica Soto. She added that the upcoming harvest will result in “from 800 to 1200 pounds of honey. Each hive has about 60,000 bees. About 200 are males, there is one queen, and the rest are female worker bees called drones. These girls do all the work!” In addition to learning about honeybees, visitors to Heller’s Interpretive Center can find out about other animals that live in the three primary biological communities—Woodlands, Flatwoods, and Prairie—found at the Nature Center. Along with
A Honey of a Place an observation honeybee hive, other interactive exhibits include a 450-gallon aquarium filled with fish and aquatic plants native to Illinois. Heller Nature Center staff are fond of saying, “There is no such thing as bad weather; just bad clothing!” Exploration and educational programs are all year-long at the
An exhibit called “Design in Nature” is housed in the log cabin at Heller Nature Center.
naturalists lead hikes and campfires; offer archery instruction, and promote such outdoor adventures as camping and canoeing. Naturalists also can introduce visitors to geocaching, a treasure hunting game in which participants use a GPS to find hidden objects. Bee boxes are used to breed bees and accumulate “Heller honey.”
Center, rain or shine or even snow. The grounds are open from dawn to dusk daily, and they include a log cabin with an interactive exhibit, picnic areas, campfire rings, butterfly garden, herb garden, honeybee apiary, picnic shelter, and two classrooms in which staff conduct programs and camps. The Center’s bright, spacious MultiPurpose Room, which is
available to rent for parties and other gatherings, has a rotating display of nature-related artwork from local artists.
Heller also offers nighttime astronomy programs that feature a Starlab Planetarium.
Heller’s staff is always happy to answer any questions, share a favorite hiking trail, and hand out free, seasonal scavenger hunt suggestions to help visitors explore the area. Guests to Heller can enjoy the Center on their own or participate in a wide variety of nature programs offered through the Park District. Heller
(Continued on page 12) SUMMER 2013
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Heller Nature Center: By Leah Holloway (Continued from page 11)
Starlab is a large inflatable structure in which participants enter, sit down, and learn about constellations
projected on the walls and domed ceiling. It’s an experience that adults enjoy as much as kids! Young children enjoy attending the Center’s early childhood programs, which are designed to increase youngsters’ comfort in and awareness of nature. Older students can discover the science of nature or hone exciting outdoor adventure skills in an afterschool program. Campers can learn to build a fire, canoe a sparkling river, or camp out under the stars in one of several age-appropriate, adventurebased summer camps. Parents can celebrate their child’s birthday by hosting a party at Heller. A naturalist will lead party guests on a hike through the forests and prairies, then
use games and activities to introduce partygoers to a variety of different outdoor themes. Parties can include an insect scavenger hunt, a geocache trail to follow, a campfire, or natural treasures to find. Though we are enjoying mid-summer now, September is just around the corner. Fall at Heller means colorful trees, campfires, and white-tailed deer. Look straight up while walking along the trails on a sunny day for an unexpectedly beautiful perspective of the bright colors framed against the blue sky. Keep an eye open for the deer silently moving through the forest. Each fall, male deer grow an impressive rack of antlers that they use to gain favor with the doe and to fend off other males. Look for spots on trees that have
Talk about your antioxidants!
Bluegrass Martinis. A table for two. The sun sinking in all its glory over the police station. Does it get any better than this? Let us shake you out of your routine.
847-831-0595 www.bluegrasshp.com 1636 Old Deerfield Road in Highland Park 12
SUMMER 2013
The best bar in town. Bar none.
A Honey of a Place been stripped of bark. In fall, deer rub their antlers against rough tree bark, often removing tree bark as well. Mark your calendar now to come to Heller in the winter to build snow critters on the back lawn and cross-country ski on the trails. Skis are available to rent whenever there are four or more inches of snow on the trails. The Nature Center has skis in sizes for youth and adults. While you ski or hike the trails, be sure to check for tracks in the snow and nests and in bare trees. Winter’s end means the debut of forest wildflowers and noisy amphibians. Carpets of trout lilies and wild geraniums cover the forest floor in the spring, and tiny white toothwort and pink spring beauties dot the landscape
while large jack-in-the-pulpits and May apples stand above the rest. Visitors should roll down their car windows as they travel the winding driveway to the Center and listen for chorus frogs and American toads chirping to their mates near the edges of the road.
is
free. For more information, call 847-433-6901
or visit www.pdhp.org
Heller has a little piece of nature for everyone, from the very young to the well seasoned, from city-dwellers to nature junkies. Whether you experience the Nature Center with family and friends or enjoy a quiet walk through the woods alone, be sure to come and enjoy this honey of a place.
Heller Nature Center, located at
2821 Ridge Road, is open from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, and from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday. Admission
Leah Holloway is a Naturalist at Heller Nature Center.
What’s Behind This Sign of Security?
10,000 Families & Businesses TRUST In KEYTH ® Security Alarm Services Secure Technologies Since 1975
800.831.0000 SUMMER 2013
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Come play with us this summer! Experts in Play baseball, basketball, camps, fitness, fourth of july, golf, gymnastics, hiking, martial arts, parties, softball, swimming, star gazing, tennis, and more!
www.pdhp.org 14
SUMMER 2013
Love where you live!
“
Helping clients with their important life decisions in a creative and personable way.” Ryan Newberry L’Heureux
(o) 847.432.0700 (c) 847.999.8433 607 Central Ave. Highland Park, IL 60035
College of Lake County Southlake Campus in Vernon Hills
CLC offers a variety of educational options at our
Vernon Hills campus • Credit courses that transfer to a four-year college or university • Career programs to start a new career right away • Cutting-edge classes to enhance professional and business entrepreneurial skills • Free English as a Second Language (ESL) classes
You won’t believe your eyes! superior lash extensions • luxurious cosmetics botanical-based skin care 1745 Green Bay Rd • Highland Park, IL 60035 847.748.8745 • www.lashlheureux.com
• Discovery! and Quest programs for adults over age 50 to enjoy leisure learning opportunities
College of Lake County – Southlake Campus www.clcillinois.edu/southlake 1120 S. Milwaukee Ave. Vernon Hills, IL 60061 | (847) 543-6501
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Hot Fun in the
Summertime
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Photos: HPHS
HPHS Theatre Department: From the high expectations of teachers (and parents) to the social pressures to fit in, high school can be a stressful four years. One of fastest and most rewarding ways I found to ease that pressure and to help me feel like I had a true place at school was to get involved in the Highland Park High School theatre community.
of each year. There also are three years of acting classes, including a Directing Course and an Honors Advanced Theatre Production Course in which students write and perform a 30-minute solo performance piece.
Theatre students performed Cyrano De Bergerac last spring at HPHS.
On my first day of school, I became immersed in that community at auditions for STUNTS, which is the Theatre Department’s annual full-length musical that is written, produced, directed, and acted in solely by students. At the audition, all of the older students welcomed the freshman with open arms; I immediately felt at home. In addition to STUNTS, each year the HPHS theatre program puts on two plays and a musical, along with the Short Play Festival, which is a collection of student-written short plays that are cast and directed by seniors at the end 18
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From the moment I stepped foot in the studio theatre, which is essentially just a big black box of a room, I wasn’t only friends with students in my grade, but rather with students of all ages. We shared a common bond of love and understanding, and to this day I still am extremely close with those friends. As I grew up from that eager freshman stage, a lot changed in my life, but theatre was constant. I was encouraged to take on larger roles, lead the younger students, and work harder than ever before. In doing so, I found that I became a better actor and performer— but this only stemmed from the fact
that I was forced to be a better listener, leader, and person. In large part, this happened because of the instruction and leadership offered by the talented and inspirational Theatre Director Scott Shallenbarger. Shall (as he is known by all of his students) has the ability to create meaningful relationships with all of his students, making sure everybody feels important and bringing out the best and the confidence in all of them. It was no surprise to me that Shall recently was awarded the Dave Peterson Outstanding Educator Award for 2013, voted on by a committee of NSSED parents and staff. This honor could not have been given to a more amazing educator with a special ability to reach deeply into the hearts of students and the community. Creating a family-like essence for every class he
By Burton Chaikin
Acting Lessons = Life Lessons teaches, Shall’s insightful knowledge of the human condition awakens his students to the world around them. He finds meaning in all aspects of our lives, and through the art of becoming another human being—acting—he teaches us that we must listen to and understand others in order to take care of each other; we are allowed to learn and heal together. I can’t urge future or current students enough to get involved in the HP theatre program. Its classes don’t just offer just acting lessons—they offer life lessons. Tim Conway and David Solotke, who are the department’s other gifted directors, and Shall work together to create a theatre program that is both vigorous and enriching. The amount of respect that students are shown is unparalleled, and the pieces chosen do not shy
away from relevant topics that may be controversial. Recent productions have included Lisa Loomer’s “Distracted,” a play about attention deficit disorder; and Tracy Letts’ Pulitzer Prize-winning “August: Osage County,” a dark comedy about a dysfunctional family whose characters suffer from alcoholism and other demons. I have just finished my first year of college, where I’ve met students from so many different high schools, programs, and curriculums. I feel I can confidently say that none of them had the arts or life education that I was lucky enough to experience. People I have met at college are talented and were able to hone those talents, yes. But they did not experience the magic that happened in that small black box theatre in Highland Park.
Burton Chaikin
When you are in that space, it’s as if every difficult part of high school washes away and you’re aware of a higher purpose in this big world of ours. And even when I was halfway across the country this past year, I still tried to return to that feeling. Being a part of the HP theatre program taught me to better understand what it means to take care of another person, to listen to others, and to be a part of something bigger than myself. And those are lessons for which I will be grateful forever. Burton Chaikin is currently studying film at the University of Southern California School of Cinematic Arts.
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Photos: Dream Kitchens, Inc.
Contractors’
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While the economy is showing definite signs of improvement, many of us have concluded that we live in a ‘new reality’ as far as home prices go. This is a great time for buyers, but not so great for those homeowners who feel they would take a loss if they moved. If you are among the latter group and decide to stay put, this can be the ideal time to update your home. Not only will you benefit from and enjoy a beautiful new kitchen, but according to Remodeling Magazine’s Cost vs. Value 2013 Report, you’ll most likely recoup a high percentage of your investment when you eventually do sell your home. The recouped percentage of a minor kitchen remodel in our area is over 68%, and the recouped percentage of a major kitchen redo is more than 62%.
thumb used to be about 10% of the home’s value for an average kitchen remodel. However, since the price of the products and labor has not dropped by the same percentage as real estate, that percentage may be a little higher. The good news is, many manufacturers of quality cabinetry have
has had years of design experience. In addition to his or her background, an expert kitchen designer knows how to get the most from the parts and pieces offered by the cabinet manufacturers. A professional designer can use less expensive stock and semi-custom cabinet lines to give a kitchen a very high-end look. So, share your priority list of elements with your designer. After laying out the most workable plan for your cooking style, the designer then will add in the elements that you prioritized, one by one, until your budget is reached.
High-End Kitchens on Low-End Budgets So, how can you achieve that ‘dream’ kitchen without spending more than is appropriate for the property and still get a great looking and performing remodel? Here are some things to consider: First, what is a custom kitchen to you? When you open a kitchen magazine and see those beautiful custom kitchens, think to yourself ‘what is it about this kitchen that makes it look so great?’ Sit down and make a list. Is it the color, staggered heights of cabinets, crown molding and trim, or maybe the backsplash? The list could be quite long. When it is complete, prioritize the list. Second, come up with a reasonable budget! What are you willing to invest in your home? The general rule of 22
SUMMER 2013
responded to this reality by coming out with special, less-expensive series of their cabinets. They have limited, but the most popular, choices in door styles, colors, and wood species but at their same great quality level. Third, hire a qualified kitchen designer. No matter how much you’ve read or watched on TV, about kitchen design, your knowledge cannot compare to that of a professional who
Fourth, use a skilled, reliable installer. Whether $10,000 or $100,000 is spent on cabinets and other materials, professional cabinet installers helped create those gorgeous kitchens showcased in magazines. Professionals indeed make all the difference. For example, if your cabinets are not installed plumb and level, your doors will always be crooked and your countertops could break. Only a real craftsman can take the materials that
By Rick Glickman
at projects they have done. An installer should be part of a legitimate company, not just working out of a pickup truck. Many kitchen cabinet retailers take the responsibility of installing what they sell. That may be a slightly more expensive way to go, but the peace of mind is well worth it. Either way, keep in mind that the more money you save by piecemealing portions of the construction, the more responsibility you take for yourself. Let’s review the steps one more time: you buy—regardless of their price— and make them look great.
Don’t Forget to Check References When picking a designer or an installer, ask for and check references, and look
• What is a custom kitchen to you? • Come up with a reasonable budget! • Hire a qualified Kitchen Designer. • Use a skilled, reliable Installer. • C heck references. These tips should help you through this sometimes confusing process. Stay in your home, and enjoy it!
Rick Glickman is Founder and President of Dream Kitchens, Inc., 806 Central Rick Glickman Avenue, Highland Park. For more information on his company, go to www.DreamKitchens.com, or call 847-433-2400.
For a list of Chamber members that specialize in building materials, kitchen equipment, or contracting, consult the Highland Park Chamber of Commerce Community Guide, or the online Business Directory at chamberhp.com.
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Ravinia’s Steans Music Institute: 25 Years of Music Magic
Photos: Ravinia Festival
By John Schauer
Ravinia’s Steans Music Institute (RSMI) is marking its 25th anniversary this summer. In honor of this milestone anniversary, no fewer than 30 RSMI alumni signed on to give Ravinia main-stage performances throughout the 2013 season. Ravinia also has commissioned composers to create new works that will receive their world premieres on August 12. A post-performance party will be open to the public in celebration of RSMI’s anniversary. Each summer Ravinia fully funds as many as 70 fellowships for the world’s most talented young professional musicians to attend RSMI. Selections are made from a pool of hundreds of applicants from around the world. After receiving one-on-one coaching with Ravinia’s esteemed world-class faculty,
Soprano Nadine Sierra and pianist Bryan Wagorn work with internationally acclaimed opera star Kiri Te Kanawa.
the young musicians headline concerts throughout the season in the festival’s BGH Series. This set of concerts is given in Bennett Gordon Hall, Ravinia’s most intimate performance space. To date, Ravinia’s summer conservatory maintains a prominent place on the resumés of nearly 1,200 musicians from 58 countries, musicians who have won countless major competitions and who today enjoy positions with prestigious chamber ensembles and orchestras, on concert stages, and in opera houses around the world.
Although the summer conservatory first opened its doors 25 years ago, the seeds of its inception can be traced back considerably further, to the passionate vision of a very visionary man. Almost as soon as Edward Gordon (1930 – 1996) became executive director of Ravinia in 1968, he began developing plans for a unique training program for young professional musicians. As early as 1972, he arranged to present a series of master classes, lecture-demonstrations, and seminars in collaboration with Northwestern University’s School of Music (now the Bienen School of Music). The initial plan for the program was to refurbish one of the original structures from the park’s 1904 opening—a socialgathering hall—to house the new music institute. Unfortunately, the building was deemed too fragile structurally to withstand extensive renovation, and in 1984 a new building was proposed and approved. The ambitious new building, which was eventually named in memory of the son of Dorothy and Richard Harza in recognition of their major gift, was to include practice rooms, teaching studios, recording facilities, a library, and office space in addition to an appropriately sized concert hall that was to be acoustically insulated so as to permit its use while other events transpired in the park. Made possible by a generous gift from Arlene and Marshall Bennett, the concert hall was originally named Bennett Hall but its name was expanded to Bennett Gordon Hall at their request after Ed Gordon’s passing, thereby insuring that his name would be permanently linked to the fruits of his vision. The entire enterprise was able to reach completion thanks to a matching grant offered by Harrison Steans, for which he was given the opportunity to bestow his own family name on the institute in honor of his wife, Lois.
Pianist Brent Funderburk and Baritone Jorell Williams
In 1992 RSMI established a program for singers. Unlike vocal programs elsewhere, which tend to focus on opera repertoire, the RSMI program concentrates exclusively on art songs, which are songs written to be sung in recital. Among the vocal luminaries who have worked with RSMI fellows over the years are Thomas Hampson, Dmitri Hvorostovsky, Frederica von Stade, Kiri Te Kanawa, Dawn Upshaw, and Benita Valente. Also working with RSMI fellows have been Ravinia’s former Music Director Christoph Eschenbach and the current Music Director of the CSO Residency at Ravinia James Conlon. The program is now headed by Kevin Murphy. In 2000 a third program, for jazz, was added. Rather than auditioning, as do participants in the programs for piano and strings and for singers, the young jazz artists who come to attend RSMI are hand-picked by the professional jazz musicians who act as faculty for the program, which in its inaugural year included current Program Director David Baker, saxophonists Nathan Davis and James Moody, and bassist Rufus Reid. What began as a dream over a quartercentury ago has become a glorious reality that looks boldly ahead to the infinite opportunities of the next generation of classical and jazz superstars—truly something for not just our community, but for the world to celebrate. John Schauer is Ravinia Associate Director of Communications, Publications.
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The Briergate Business District: Open for MORE Business Photo: Evan Kane Photography
by Mira Temkin
For some Highland Parkers, the Briergate Business District, located on the northwest side of town just west of Highway 41, is the area where their family businesses have operated for years—several for three or four generations. For others, this district houses some of their favorite businesses, some they could consider hidden gems. But for most of us, it’s simply the area off Highway 41 that we wiz by while traveling north or south, not really knowing exactly what’s back there. But regardless of why anyone is traveling in or around Briergate, everyone is bound to notice the greater visibility in the area, as well as the increase in directional signage.
BBAD Helps Pave the Way Over the years, Briergate had become overrun with the invasive plant called buckthorn, as well as with other brush and debris. In response, the Briergate Business Association District (BBAD) was created, spearheading a series of
improvements, with more planned in the coming months. Working with the City of Highland Park, the city’s Business and Economic Development Commission (BEDC), and the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT), BBAD’s leaders helped develop a plan to make the area more accessible with greater visibility. “This project demonstrates the benefits of multiple governments working together to achieve a common goal,” said Mayor Nancy Rotering. “It’s a win-win situation for Highland Park.” Two business owners who have been highly instrumental in Briergate’s revitalization are David Brunjes and Mark Williams. Brunjes, who owns Craftwood Lumber and Hardware, is President of BBAD. Williams, who is the group’s secretary, is owner of Williams Ski and Patio, which has been in its present location since 1969. “My father, Richard, liked it because it was visible from the highway,” he said.
Briergate’s revitalization “project started around two years ago,” said Brunjes. “A group of us wanted to clear out the buckthorn, undergrowth, and garbage from east of Old Skokie Road to Route 41. The brush was so thick that it hid a lot of businesses. Volunteers worked to pick up trash that included old cell phones, cans, and more.” Last spring, crews began clearing away trees, shrubs, and refuse. Brunjes said, “Now that the area has been cleared, most of the tenants are pleased with the results. Once people got over the initial shock, they liked the exposure.” Over the next few years, a diverse mix of native grasses, sedges, and wildflowers will be planted, closely monitored to assure the native plants take root. More signage is also coming, and Williams said increased lighting, road upgrades, and additional parking are also planned.
Views on the New Look Bill Clark, owner of Bishop Heating, participated in the initial clean-up. In business since 1943, Bishop Heating has been located in several Briergate locations. Clark said his father Tom purchased the present location in 1988. “The increase in visibility has definitely prompted an increase in traffic since the improvements,” he said.
David Brunjes of Craftwood Lumber and Hardware and Mark Williams of Williams Ski and Patio
Bluegrass owner Jim Lederer likes the location of his restaurant, which is kitty corner from the Highland Park Police Station. “When we were looking at sites in 2004, we never wanted to be in the mainstream,” Lederer said. “We wanted to be a little off the beaten path, and then this site became available. It was close to our home and had good parking.” Lederer feels that Jewel and Toys R Us have always been a draw for Briergate, but the rebirth of the area has definitely increased his traffic. “The (Continued on page 28)
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The Briergate Business District: Open for MORE Business (Continued from page 26)
Photos: Evan Kane Photography
renovation also has led us to embark on our own improvements. By beautifying the entire area, it makes our customers feel better about coming here,” he said.
“With the number of retail businesses that have opened back there, plus the re-development of (the former) Opportunity, Inc., and of Solo Cup, Briergate has a bright future, and I’m happy to be part of it,” Buss added.
The Wine Discount Center…ready for business!
almost 20 years. “This was a way to be a part of the Highland Park business community that was consistent with my business model,” he said. He was surprised by the impact of the clean up. “One new customer who lived right across the street from WDC said she had no idea we were here until they cleared away the trees,” he said. Owner Ray Schuler of Rover’s Place with some of his cuddly clients.
Ray and Lindsay Schuler bought Rover’s Place, a dog daycare and boarding facility, from the previous owners in 2006. Ray said the removal of the trees has opened up the whole area. “I like it because you can now see our sign from the highway, giving us greater visibility. It’s made our facility much brighter.” Loree Wasserman who opened Loree’s Closet, a luxury consignment business, two years ago chose her Briergate location because it offered warehouse as well as office space. In addition, it was convenient for her North Shore customers. “The increase in traffic since they’ve cleared the area will help all of the businesses back here,” she said. Wine Discount Center owner Peter Schwarzbach has been in Briergate for
Still there are others not as happy with the project. Wedding planner Linda Alpert of Affairs with Linda has been in Briergate for more than 15 years. She opened her business in the area because of its easy access to the highway for her clients. “I also loved the privacy,” she said. “Now it’s all out in the open.” While she sees the new signage and some of the other improvements as positive, she’s anxious to see what else is planned.
Positive Signs Also Sprouting Up Dan Buss of D&R Autoworks is moving his auto repair business into a new 14,000 foot facility at the corner of Old Skokie and Old Deerfield Roads. Buss said the new bigger facility, scheduled to open this fall, will offer expanded services.
Amy Herzog 847-363-9201
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Carolyn Hersch, Economic Development Coordinator for the City of Highland Park, added that the property owners of the former Opportunity, Inc., site “have come to the city with a plan to convert it into a self-storage facility for now, and with hopes for re-development for retail in the future.”
So What Else Is Back There? In total, there are more than 119 offices, light industrial, and retail establishments located in Briergate. Did you know you can take piano lessons, buy a baby gift, take kickboxing, send cookies, eat, drink, and be merry…then lose weight and work out? You can also have your car repaired, get business cards printed, and have artwork framed. Now that the buckthorn is gone and the new signs are up, take a drive and check out all that Briergate has to offer. You may discover a whole new part of Highland Park to love. Community members interested in keeping up with the latest developments of the area’s revitalization are invited to visit the Briergate Business Association District’s Facebook page. Mira Temkin is a North Shore freelance writer whose articles have appeared in Lakeland Boating, What’s Happening, and Long Island Woman. She also assists small businesses with marketing communications. She can be reached at
[email protected].
Debbie Kanter 847-609-6112
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It’s
The Ravina neighborhood’s newest eatery, Merlo’s, certainly has the recipe for success: attentive wait staff, delicious food, and a fun, neighborhood atmosphere. Owner John Merlo is a 20-year veteran of the restaurant-bar biz, having worked at and operated a variety of Chicago venues, including Bacchus—a big nightclub in Lincoln Park—and River North steakhouse Avenue M. But he picked a spot on Roger Williams for his new restaurant, because he said, “I love the Ravinia neighborhood. It is centrally located, making it easy to draw from the surrounding suburbs. And the community has been amazingly supportive. We see so many return visitors from the neighborhood.” He added that because he’s from the North Shore, “it is nice to be back up here, operating a business. It’s great for me to be operating so close to home, so I can have more time with my kids.” Merlo described his menu as “Chicagostyle Italian.” He explained, “Certain dishes we serve, like Chicken Vesuvio,
Merlo’s is open Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., on Saturday from 4 p.m. to 11 p.m. and on Sunday from 4 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Photo: Merlo’s
Merlo’s Italian Restaurant
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The Cos Bar
Merlo’s is a bustling new restaurant and a welcome addition to the Ravinia Business District.
really don’t exist in Italy. To me, ‘Chicago-style Italian’ means big familystyle portions of these recipes that have evolved here over time.” Also on the menu at Merlo’s are such traditional Italian dishes as homemade ravioli and linguine in a spicy tomato sauce. Pizza is also served, as is one of Merlo’s personal favorites, Nanna’s Gravy, which is slow-roasted pot roast served in a red wine and crushed tomato sauce and tossed with rigatoni. Just remember to leave room for dessert!
Owner and President Lily Garfield opened the first Cos Bar luxury beauty boutique in Aspen, Colorado, over a quarter of a century ago, but she said the choice of Highland Park as another location for her business had “been on my radar for close to 25 years. A lot of customers at our other stores live in Highland Park and the Chicago area, and they love the Cos Bar experience. . . Highland Park was a natural fit,” she said. The Cos Bar features a distinguished level of service and top quality products. “We are here for our customers, and we have the best interests of every individual’s needs in mind; we do not just push vendor’s products. Our staff members are cosmetic experts trained in every brand we carry. We listen to our
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By Maureen Mostyn Liebenson
Photo: Steve Handwerker
The Highland Park store is similar to the other 12 Cos Bar boutiques located in upscale communities across the country. It offers a modern, open environment with a classic white color scheme. Customers enter to an inviting warm aroma. The walls are filled with floor to ceiling product displays with countertop builtins, clearly distinguishing each brand. Running down the center of the store is The Cos Bar’s “play bar”, where the shop provides makeup for customers to touch and sample—and doesn’t that sound like a fun way to try out a great new look? The Cos Bar features top quality products and service.
customers and offer products to meet their needs,” said Garfield. When it comes to makeup, Garfield’s philosophy is “less is better—you don’t need a lot. Keep it simple.” That’s particularly good advice in the carefree days of summer, when “women strive for a very natural sun-kissed look, rather than a heavy bold city look. Moisturizers serve dual purposes, acting as a sunblock and foundation,” she said, adding that “skin care and proper cleaning are the key elements to maintaining a summer glow.”
In addition to helping both men and women look healthy and beautiful, Garfield said that “The Cos Bar is notoriously famous for holding a variety of after-hours parties and charity events. We love community outreach.” Hours are Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday 10a.m. to 6 p.m.; Thursday 10 a.m. 8 p.m.; and Sunday noon 5 p.m. 662 Central Avenue 847-432-6249 cosbar.com
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SUMMER 2013
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Takin’ Care of Business:
A Conversation with Carolyn Hersch and Ghida Neukirch
What is the City’s role in business development? The City of Highland Park assists businesses to start, relocate, expand, and enhance their business in the community. The City’s Economic Development Work Plan includes the following business goals as its foundation: 1. To promote and retain existing businesses; 2. To attract new business to the City; 3. To seek opportunities to rejuvenate and revitalize the City through strategic economic development efforts; and 4. To coordinate economic development efforts with business districts, organizations, and regional and state partners. The closing of Saks Fifth Avenue in the downtown district creates a large vacant store. What is the City doing to fill that space? Saks was part of Renaissance Place, which is a private development. The City does not own or manage the property, and thus we do not negotiate the lease or sale of it. We, however, are working very closely with the property owner and the property manager, and we provide them with business leads that we believe would both complement the community and be viable at that location. When the owner has secured a lease for the site, the City will work with the applicant to obtain a building permit and pursue any necessary zoning for the property. Can you comment on business closings in Highland Park? There’s an impact any time a business closes in Highland Park. On a quarterly basis, the City receives an occupancy report from Lake County Partners, a regional economic development corporation. The Q4 2012 occupancy report indicated that the City’s retail occupancy rate was 93.6%; up 6.4% from the low of 87.1% in Q4 2009. Highland Park has fared better than most as the City’s retail occupancy rate is 1.9% higher than the regional average. Highland Park is an extremely attractive community in which to do business, as 32
SUMMER 2013
Photo: HP Chamber of Commerce
Less than a year ago, Ghida Neukirch started in her position as Deputy City Manager of the City of Highland Park. Carolyn Hersch has been the City’s Economic Development Coordinator since 2006. We invited Neukirch and Hersch to explain the services and programs that the City of Highland Park provides to support local business.
Carolyn Hersch, Economic Development Coordinator and Ghida Neukirch, Deputy City Manager
evidenced by the continual influx of inquiries from businesses seeking to locate here. Leasing or selling property in the community is dependent on many factors – for example, the property owner’s sale price or lease of the site, the City’s permit process, and the zoning regulations. Success of a business also is related to the business owner’s marketing and customer service. The City works closely with the Chamber of Commerce, the Downtown Highland Park Alliance, property owners, business owners, and others in the industry. Working together ensures the continued success of our business community. Why doesn’t the City prevent two very similar businesses from locating near each other? The City’s Zoning Ordinance sets forth regulations and laws that define how property in specific geographic zones can be used. Zoning ordinances specify whether zones can be used for residential or commercial purposes, and may regulate lot size, bulk (or density), the height of structures, and whether uses are permitted, conditional, or prohibited. If a use is permitted, the City does not have the authority to prohibit another comparable use from locating near a competitor.
Does the City provide any incentives for businesses? Yes! New businesses making minimum capital investments of $250,000 and generating a minimum of $1,000,000 in sales tax dollars annually may be eligible for a sales tax rebate. Existing businesses investing a minimum of $75,000 in capital improvements and generating a minimum of $1,000,000 in sales tax dollars annually may also be eligible for a sales rebate. The goals of the Sales Tax Rebate program are to stimulate sales tax growth and create jobs in Highland Park by incentivizing retail businesses to locate or expand in the City, and to preserve existing level of sales tax revenues. The City also offers a Small Business Façade Improvement Grant Program. Businesses receive information about this program with their business registration, as well as periodically throughout the year. The goal of the Facade Improvement Program is to provide assistance and incentive to property owners and local businesses to improve the look and functionality of their property and place of business. Applicants may receive 50% of their project cost (up to $5,000) as part of this program. The grant is not retroactive; the work cannot be complete at the time of application. How can someone find out additional information about business in Highland Park? He or she should sign up to receive the City’s Bi-Weekly Business & Economic Development Newsletter; special event information; and citywide news and other info. Anyone interested should visit the City’s website at www.cityhpil.com, and then click on “Subscribe to Newsletters and Announcements” at the top right corner of the screen. Anyone with questions, comments, or recommendations should contact us though the City Manager’s Office, 1707 St. Johns Avenue, or call 847-432-0800.
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