Village's 'warm and cozy' feel is a welcome respite

As I sat at a window seat in Por Tanto, the newest eatery in Arlington Heights, I felt like I was reliving my cafe experiences in Europe. There was a sense of calm enjoying my favorite pastime of people watching while savoring all of the innovative Mediterranean dishes.

The small quaint dining room is what resonates to me in a world of the fast and ever changing business model. Realistically it's paramount to making a financial profit, but equally important it's about making a connection with the community.

I long have craved a space that feels like a hug from a slightly worn favorite sweater. Indeed, we all need "warm and cozy" even if it only lasts for a few hours.

I still enjoy the busy pace that is expected surrounding Harmony Park during the al fresco season. It's become a happening for many people who gather "to see and be seen." The loud chattering from the patrons of the restaurants and shops blends in beautifully with the numerous venues that showcase live music. The sounds from musicians who play at Hey Nonny, Big Shots and other music spots seeps pleasantly out into the streets on a regular basis.

Arlington Heights is not alone in this. Other towns are reinventing themselves to feel the way communities once were before the large box stores and chain restaurants took hold. Small-business owners took a risk to express their creativity by inviting people to a unique experience grass rooted from their passion.

Arlington Heights' motto is "A village of good neighbors," but in lieu of that, it is also a village of innovative small businesses. Let us not allow them to disappear once again.

Helen Gong Weiner

Arlington Heights