Sam Cook is an art teacher at McClure Junior High in Western Springs.
Q: Where did you grow up?
A: Homer Glen.
Q: Do you have any pets?
A: Two Pugs.
Q: What was your first job?
A: Working at Mr. Beef in Homer Glen.
Q: As a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
A: An artist, a dog groomer or a teacher.
Q: What dashed the dog grooming hopes?
A: It was something my best friend and I were going to do together, but we grew up.
Q: Do you play an instrument?
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A: I am a huge music lover. As a hobby, I play the ukulele. I am self-taught.
Q: What is your favorite charity?
A: St. Jude. They do a fantastic job with younger families and kids in need.
Q: What reality show would you be on?
A: “Face Off” (a Syfy channel competition/elimination show where special effects make-up artists participate in challenges).
Q: Who would play you in a movie about your life?
A: Uma Thurman. She’s a strong woman.
Q: What’s your favorite local restaurant?
A: Buona Beef
Q: What’s your favorite local store?
A: Lush in Oak Brook for its organic cosmetics.
Q: What’s an interesting fact about you?
A: I do dog paintings. I’ve done both my Pugs a couple of times. I love to paint.
Q: What words of wisdom woudl you share?
A: Create magical experiences. Be different and do what you want to do.
Shout Out is a weekly feature where we get to know and introduce our readers to their fellow community members and local visitors throughout suburban Chicago. Check out more online at ChicagoTribune.com/ShoutOut.