Downers Grove Magazine Issues
The Power of Unity: How suburban theaters are rewriting the script on collaboration
By Laura Michaud & Melissa G. Wilson Chicago’s western suburbs have long embraced collaboration within individual communities, with local chambers and cities integrating performing arts into events. However, a larger opportunity lies in building a network of cross-community artistic partnerships, potentially transforming the region’s cultural landscape. For example, the Salt Creek Ballet of Westmont performed…
Read MoreMary Braatz Re/Max Enterprises
Downers Grove Magazine (DGM): What made you choose Real Estate as a career, and what keeps you motivated? Mary Braatz (MB): I initially chose Real Estate after working for several years in the Loop. I wanted to work in my local community. I love solving problems and finding the best options for my clients,…
Read MoreWedding Planning Guide
WEDDING DRESS Fifi Papadopoulos, a talented seamstress from Greece, opened Fifi’s Bridal & Custom Tailoring in Elmhurst, Illinois, 16 years ago. Fifi Specializes in wedding gowns and all garment alterations. She offers a stunning selection of bridal and mother-of-the-bride dresses. Fifi’s friendly, expert service makes every client feel like family! 446 N York St, Elmhurst,…
Read MoreDuPage Foundation
In early November, the DuPage Foundation celebrated its Annual Benefit: Through the Looking Glass at The Westin Chicago Lombard, welcoming over 425 guests. The event raised nearly $700,000, with additional contributions expected. These funds are vital to supporting the Foundation’s efforts in addressing community challenges and opportunities while aiding donors and businesses in achieving impactful…
Read MoreClearing the Air: The American Lung Association and the local Fight for Air Climb
By Anna Hughes | Photos courtesy of the American Lung Association It’s not easy having to fight for air. It’s unfair when the most basic human need—breathing—becomes a daily battle. Unfortunately, that’s the reality for tens of millions of Americans living with a variety of lung health conditions: lung and respiratory diseases, asthma, and lung…
Read MoreSnapshot: Montini Catholic High School
Being a teenager today is more challenging than ever and the Lasallian approach to education that Montini Catholic has provided since their founding – knowing, seeing, supporting, and loving each student – is more relevant than ever. Located in Lombard, Montini Catholic High School is a family-centered, coeducational, college preparatory high school rooted in the…
Read MoreThe DuPage County Underground Railroad
Local Underground Railroad stations invite visitors to hear freedom seekers’ stories By Maureen Callahan From the start of slavery, freedom seekers (formerly known as enslaved people) sought a better situation than the one into which they were born or sold. The 1860s found the nation embroiled in the Great Civil War, with slavery as a…
Read MoreSnapshot: Notre Dame School
Under the patronage of Our Blessed Mother, Notre Dame School partners with parents, the primary educators, in the sacred mission of guiding their children to Heaven. Our Catholic classical liberal arts education engages students’ natural desire for truth, beauty, and goodness. Through the integration of faith and reason, we form wise, virtuous, and free students…
Read MoreThe Transformative Power of Live Performing Arts
by Laura Michaud and Melissa G. Wilson Live performing arts have a profound impact on both individuals and communities. From the artists who express themselves through their craft to the children who grow by sharing their talents, everyone involved is touched meaningfully. Audiences, too, benefit by gaining new insights, emotional connections, and life experiences. Whether…
Read More2025 Wedding Trends
Although any wedding should be unique to the happy couple, trends often sneak their way into the celebration. We’ve rounded up a list of some wedding trends to be on the lookout for during the 2025 wedding season. By Anna Hughes Elongated Diamonds For the past few years, oval diamonds have been the leading pick…
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