Pilot creates furniture from plane parts
A love of history and airplanes is the driving force behind Kurt Eldrup's business, Phighter Images.
Eldrup's business focuses on creating furniture from old or damaged airline parts. He also makes novelty items as well as strollers and swings designed to look like airplanes.
"The kids don't want to get out of the strollers, they're so fun," Eldrup said. The strollers range in price from $300 to $425.
He operates the business from his home on Rand Road in Deer Park where his wife runs Muddy Paws, a dog boarding business.
Eldrup, 40, went to school for aviation maintenance. He served in the National Guard as an aircraft mechanic.
"I like airplanes and World War II history," said Eldrup, who also has his pilot's license.
The idea for his business developed about three years ago when he discovered some damaged airplane parts at the home of his father, who served in the Air Force. In fact, Eldrup was born at the former Hahn Air Force Base in West Germany.
Eldrup, who grew up in Mount Prospect, cleaned up the old parts, designing them into functional furniture. He makes a coffee table out of a restored wing and table lamps out of tail hooks and other parts.
The entrepreneur works full time in an auto body shop.
"I'm doing the business on the side. It's all kind of related," Eldrup said.
Some of his work is on display at Chicago Rockford Airport in Rockford. The rest can be found on his Web site at www.phighterimages.com.
Eldrup obtains old parts from contacts in the industry including air show performer Dave Dacy.
"It's something I love and I'm trying to expand on it," he said.
Growing up: After 10 years of success in Arlington Heights, Arlington Pediatrics is expanding to Algonquin and will open as Algonquin Pediatrics later this month.
Dr. David Brottman was one of the founders of the practice. He is leading the charge to bring the philosophy of excellence in pediatrics and "on-time" care to his patients in the western suburbs.
Partner Dr. Medaline Santiago, says by scheduling patients for the actual amount of time their sick visits or checkups may require, they are able to stay on schedule.
Other doctors working in the firm include Kathy Seskiewicz, Kathleen Grady and Nazia Sheriff. All the physicians work in both offices and are on staff at Sherman Hospital, St. Alexius Hospital, Northwest Community Healthcare and at The Children's Memorial Hospital.
The new practice will be opening in the Sherman Medical Healthcare Building, 600 S Randall Road.
kmikus@dailyherald.com