'I'm Here. I'm Going to Stay Here': John Salvi's Journey from a Brain Tumor to a Broken New Trier Rowing Record

Living with an inoperable brain tumor, 16-year-old John Salvi faced numerous obstacles, and of them, the most ordinary also was the most devastating: A mirror. Fifteen pounds lighter, with no hair and a medical access port sticking out of his chest, the Wilmette resident often struggled to look at his reflection. “To see this frail […]

Metropolitan Family Services 'Mpowers' Children, Families Across Skokie Valley Communities

Editor’s Note: Some names have been changed to protect identity. Daniel is 77 years old and lives alone at an independent senior apartment building. Though he is alert and oriented, his self-neglect manifested in his lack of housekeeping. As his living conditions deteriorated, the Adult Protective Services program at Metropolitan Family Services’ Skokie Valley Center […]

Better Makers: Chicago International Film Festival Honors Filmmaking, Raises Nearly $35K for Cinema/Chicago

The Chicago International Film Festival celebrated its 58th year with a hybrid event running October 12- 23, 2022. The 12-day fest raised $34,818 for its presenting organization, Cinema/Chicago, a nonprofit enriching the community through year-round programming devoted to international and independent cinema.  As the longest-running competitive film festival in North America, the Chicago International Film […]

8 Best Places for Afternoon Tea in Chicago

Good times are a-brewing!  It’s been a few years since we revisited the proper afternoon tea situation in Chicagoland, and a lot has changed. Post-pandemic, many old favorites have curtailed the tradition, and some have even closed. But fear not! We’ve found some special options — some new, some old — that carry on this wonderful tradition of […]

New In Town: Amy Morton's 'Unconventional French' in Evanston, Butter and Baked Treats in Winnetka, Bistro Fare and Fine Wine in Chicago and More

‘Tis the season for eating, drinking and shopping! The latest new openings around Chicago and the North Shore bring us Amy Morton’s unexpected take on the French brasserie, a new bakery with a curated butter collection, the latest “pour-your-own” beer spot, and more. Here’s what’s new in town in Chicago and the suburbs. LeTour   […]