When Laurie Richter’s son was beginning his college search a few years ago, he wasn’t just seeking an academically challenging and socially rich environment in which to spend four years. A high school athlete, he was also looking for a place to play basketball. The Richters quickly discovered, however, that navigating the recruitment process was […]
It’s impossible for us to know who we truly are without knowing something of our mothers. That’s why Fern Schumer Chapman, a former reporter for the Chicago Tribune and Forbes, has spent years unraveling the enigma that is her mother, who was orphaned by the Holocaust. Fern’s first book, “Motherland: Beyond the Holocaust: A Mother-Daughter […]
Parneshia Jones’ parents were set on her becoming a doctor or a lawyer. So, when she transferred from pre-med to become a creative writing major at Chicago State University, “They were horrified,” she says. But Parneshia, who was raised in Evanston, grew into a highly accomplished poet and was able to channel her talents into […]
Annie Burnside is a soul nurturer on a mission to help people feel closer and more connected to God. Her particular calling is teaching parents to help their families develop spirituality together. Annie glows as she discusses this and her strong connection to God. She feels a divine energy that flows through and connects her […]
From the moment you spot Carolyn Crimi’s feet—she’s sporting hot pink Chuck Taylors with sparkly laces—you know you’re in for a dose of fun, whimsy and creativity. Crimi puts these qualities to use as an author of award-winning children’s picture and chapter books. “I started writing kids’ books in first grade and never stopped,” she […]
Google “blind organization,” and you will generate 13 million results in less than a second. Google “low vision organization,” and your hits will drop to 2.2. million. Two Deerfield mothers, Wendy Baum and Susan Ballis, are trying to change that. In 2006, they started Vision for Tomorrow Foundation, a national nonprofit dedicated to helping families […]
Loved ones with severe memory loss often retreat to inner worlds. A recent international documentary, “I Remember Better When I Paint,” co-directed by Berna Huebner of Highland Park, shows how art therapy can bring them back. The film is based, in part, on personal experience. Huebner’s mother, Hilda Gorenstein, also known as Hilgos, was an […]
One of the country’s last remaining community centers, Gorton, a nonprofit organization in Lake Forest, appears to be in danger of closing its doors. The Board of Directors is appealing to the community for $250,000 in cash donations by Thursday, August 5. Donations should be made payable to Gorton Community Center and either mailed or […]
Is a 3-day music fest too much for you? Then come to GALApalooza, the official kickoff party of the Lollapalooza weekend. Scheduled for Thursday, August 5, GALApalooza is an upscale party geared toward adults—a private concert and cocktail party under the stars at the Petrillo Band Shell in Chicago’s beautiful Grant Park. It’s a sneak peek […]
At Chicago Botanic Garden’s World Environment Day, a small but dynamic group of children determined to make the earth a healthier place manned one of the popular community displays. The Highland Park Green Kids were eager to discuss their mission and demonstrate energy-saving projects. They are part of a local grassroots organization founded by kids […]
