|
|
Dear Downers Grove Businesses,
Summer is one of the best times to experience everything that makes Downers Grove a vibrant destination for residents, visitors, and businesses alike. From nationally recognized hotels and distinctive local restaurants to unique retail shopping opportunities throughout our downtown and commercial corridors, the hospitality sector plays a vital role in supporting our local economy and enhancing the community's quality of life.
In this issue of SPARK, we celebrate the businesses and destinations that help make Downers Grove a place where people choose to stay, dine, shop, and gather. You'll learn more about the rich history and continued impact of the iconic Tivoli Theatre, discover investments and developments within our hospitality industry, and explore how these amenities contribute to the community's appeal for both visitors and employers.
The coming months also bring exciting opportunities to showcase our region. Golf fans from around the world will turn their attention to DuPage County as Medinah Country Club hosts the prestigious President's Cup, highlighting the area's ability to welcome world-class events and visitors. Closer to home, we encourage you to Save the Date for the DGEDC Annual Luncheon on October 14, one of our premier opportunities to connect with local businesses and community leaders.
Thank you for being part of the SPARK community and for your continued investment in the businesses, places, and experiences that help make Downers Grove a premier destination to live, work, and visit.
Respectfully,
Bryan Gay
President & CEO
Downers Grove Economic Development Corporation
Downers Grove Visitors Bureau
| | INVESTOR HIGHLIGHT: TIVOLI ENTERPRISES, INC. | | The Tivoli Theatre – A Downtown Icon with Lasting Impact | | |
Few landmarks embody the spirit and history of Downers Grove quite like The Tivoli Theatre. Located in the heart of downtown, The Tivoli has served as a community gathering place since opening in 1928. Remarkably, it was only the second theatre in the United States designed specifically for sound films – yet the first movie ever shown there was a silent film, a unique reminder of the entertainment industry's transition into a new era.
The Tivoli's story took on a new chapter in 1976 when Willis and Shirley Johnson purchased the historic building. Their commitment to preserving the theater's character led to the founding of Classic Cinemas in 1978. What began as a passion project has grown into a thriving family-owned company operating 16 locations and 141 screens throughout Illinois.
| | |
Over the years, The Tivoli Theatre has been carefully restored to maintain its architectural beauty while incorporating modern sound and projection technology.
Today, it stands as both a treasured piece of Downers Grove history and a vibrant destination for residents and visitors alike.
Nearly a century after opening its doors, The Tivoli remains much more than a movie theater. It is a symbol of investment, preservation, and community connection, continuing to create shared experiences that enhance the vitality and charm of Downtown Downers Grove.
| | BOARD MEMBER HIGHLIGHT: FADI OSMANO | | |
Fadi Osmano
General Manager, DoubleTree Suites by Hilton
Fadi's career began in real estate and finance, where he worked across residential, commercial, and agricultural properties and helped clients navigate complex financing challenges. During the housing crisis, Fadi assisted more than 200 homeowners in avoiding foreclosure, developing a strong foundation in asset value, negotiation, financial strategy, and problem-solving.
He later brought that experience into hospitality, expanding his experience across hotel operations, development, acquisitions, capital projects, engineering, renovations, construction, food and beverage, and asset enhancement.
A significant part of his career has been leading the DoubleTree by Hilton in Downers Grove, a 247-room full-service hotel with more than 13,000 square feet of meeting and event space. As General Manager, his responsibilities have included hotel operations, capital improvements, engineering oversight, renovations, food and beverage development, guest experience, and financial performance, while coordinating ownership, management, vendors, and department leaders.
At Cicero Hospitality Group, Fadi has led development and acquisition initiatives, managing projects that include the revitalization of all 245 guest rooms at Hilton West Palm Beach, more than 60,000 square feet of office renovations, improvements to over 150 multifamily units, and the development of a 5,000 square-foot medical practice.
Fadi believes great hospitality is built through strong teams, thoughtful design, operational discipline, and a focus on both guest experience and long-term asset value. He is proud to serve on the Downers Grove Economic Development Corporation Board and support the continued growth of the local business community.
| | Golf Is In Full Swing In Downers Grove | |
Golf season is in full swing, and Downers Grove is at the center of the action.
This fall, golf fans from around the world will turn their attention to nearby Medinah Country Club, host of the prestigious President's Cup. The international competition will bring global attention to DuPage County and further reinforce the region's reputation as a premier golf destination.
Downers Grove is also home to the PGA TOUR Superstore, which recently celebrated its grand re-opening. The updated location offers golfers access to the latest equipment, apparel, technology, and expert instruction, making it a go-to destination for top players of all skill levels.
The community's connection to golf extends well beyond the present day. Belmont Golf Club holds a special place in golf history as the site of the nation's first 18-hole golf course. Established in 1892 by the Chicago Golf Club and shaped by golf pioneer Charles Blair Macdonald, the course helped introduce and grow the sport in America. Today, Belmont Golf Club continues to honor that legacy while providing a modern golf experience for players and visitors alike.
From a historic course that helped shape the game to nationally recognized golf retailers and world-class tournaments just minutes away, Downers Grove offers a unique blend of golf history and innovation. Whether you're playing a round, shopping for new gear, or attending a championship event, there's never been a better time to celebrate golf in Downers Grove.
| | Introducing the New DGEDC.com! | |
We're excited to announce the launch of the new DGEDC website at DGEDC.com!
Designed to better serve businesses, site selectors, developers, investors, and the community, our new website offers an updated look, improved navigation, and expanded resources that make it easier than ever to discover why Downers Grove is a great place to do business.
Whether you're exploring available sites, learning about our programs, reading success stories, or connecting with our team, you'll find a more user-friendly experience built with today's business community in mind.
| |
More Ways to Connect with The DGEDC!
Connect with the Downers Grove Economic Development Corporation on Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn to stay informed about Downers Grove businesses, available resources and DGEDC news and events!
| | |
Downers Grove Economic Development Corporation
5159 Mochel Drive, Downers Grove, IL 60515 | 630.729.0380 | dgedc.com
| | | | |
