Sheridan Road, December/January 2019

heart that every day is the best day

in the year.

RACHEL BROSNAHAN ON ACTING AND ATC

LORD & MAR’S FANCIFUL FLORALS TRENDING with CHANEL DORÉE

MODERN FAMILY

MYAH IRICK TALKS

CULTURE AND ETHNICITY

CINESPACE IS CHICAGO’S HOLLYWOOD HANSA

MEDICAL GROUPE OFFERS PATIENTCENTERED CARE

ABBVIE’S $100 MILLION GIFT

–RALPH WALDO EMERSON

From left to right: Tom Hulick, WBS Financial Advisor*, Jeff Steinberg, Private Mortgage Banker, Colleen McCaffery, Wealth Advisor, Russ Gelberg, Private Mortgage Banking Sales Supervisor, Ellen Topel, Senior Private Banker, Greg Danziger, Wealth Advisor, Kim Kropke, Administrative Assistant, Shanise Evans, Fiduciary Advisory Specialist, Alan Myers, WBS Financial

, Irma

, Lisa Bertagna, Senior Private

, Jim Sturgeon, Senior Private Banker, Mark Majoros,

2314 N CAMBRIDGE AVE

5 Beds | 4.2 Baths • $3,950,000 2314NCambridge.info

Modern living on a double lot in the heart of Lincoln Park! No detail was spared in creating dramatic, sun-filled living spaces on three levels. The main level of the home opens onto a beautiful central yard and has double ceiling heights and a custom staircase. The state-of-the-art kitchen features a built-in work space and a large island with ample seating. 4 beds on the second level, including the well designed master suite. The penthouse level is flooded with light & o ers a 5th bed suite, rec room, exercise room & a home o ce or ensuite bed + a true laundry room. Fabulous rooftop deck. 3-car attached gar.

2248 N BURLING ST

6 Beds | 4.1 Baths • $3,250,000 2248NBurlingSt.info

Rare opportunity for a spectacular custom limestone home on a quiet one way street leading to Oz Park w/ studio coach house over the garage! This home has the finest finishes throughout & many recent updates. Gorgeous DeGiulio kitchen & butler pantry w/ high end appliances & oversized island w/ breakfast bar. The adjacent great room overlooks the backyard/patio & has access to the mudroom w/custom built-ins. The 2nd level of the home has 3 spacious beds, plus a den/family room that o ers easy potential for a 4th bedroom. The full floor master suite is a sanctuary w/ an extra large spa bath, great closets, co ee bar, & a deck. Spacious lower level rec/media room w/bar, 2 guest bedrooms. Lincoln Schools.

2238 N MAGNOLIA AVE

5 Beds | 5.1 Baths • $3,300,000 2238NMagnolia.info

Fabulous & nearly new home by Platinum Homes, styled and designed with upgrades galore. Located on one of the finest one way streets in Lincoln Park, this home o ers a great floorplan and designer selections throughout. Amazing chefs kitchen & butler pantry with beautiful white millwork. Backyard space w/ fireplace and built in kitchen, garage roofdeck & fireplace, plus a huge rooftop terrace w/ 3rd outdoor fireplace + wiring for TV. 4 ensuite beds on upper levels + a fab penthouse den w/ wet bar. Luxe master suite w/ spa bath. Rec/ media room on lower level w/ wet bar & custom wine storage, o ce with built-ins, & a guest bed/bath. Steps from Oscar Mayer School and DePaul!

322 W WILLOW ST

4 Beds | 4.1 Baths • $1,690,000 322WWillowSt.info

Spectacular Old Town “new” construction home w/ sustainable and health conscious design materials throughout. Custom glass/wood staircase, 4” rift & sawn hardwood floors, heated upper bath floors and basement, Lutron lighting system, & top end AV system. Main level is exceptional space w/ combined living/ dining with fireplace. Spacious master suite w/ 2 walk-in closets, sauna, & spa like bath w/steam shower + jet tub w/heated back rest. 2 additional ensuite beds and laundry on master level. Lower level rec room has a built in media center, wet bar, custom wine cellar & home theater. Steps from the lake, Lincoln Park Zoo & Green City Market. Lincoln Schools! Parking!

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CONTENTS

December/January 2019

FEATURES

RISING STARS

Highland Park native and award-winning actress Rachel Brosnahan sits down with Sheridan Road magazine and Carole Dibo, founder of Wilmette-based Actors Training Center, where e Marvelous Mrs. Maisel earned her acting stripes.

CINESPACE

Alexander Pissios brings Hollywood to the Midwest.

CULTIVATING CURIOSITY

e Iricks are a family with local roots and a global, adventurous mindset.

MYAH IRICK WARDROBE PROVIDED BY NEIMAN MARCUS NORTHBROOK

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MONICA KASS ROGERS STYLING, HAIR, AND MAKEUP BY CONSTANTINE JAMES ON

RACHEL BROSNAHAN AND CAROLE DIBO PHOTOGRAPHY BY FRANK ISHMAN

SOME GIFTS ARE MEANT TO BE PLAYED WITH

Founder & Publisher

Editor-in-Chief

Editorial Director

Social Editor

Staff Writer and Photographer

Special Projects Editor

Style Director

Style Editor

Contributing Writers

Art Director

Production Manager/ Graphic Designer

Senior Graphic Designers

Visit Imperial Motors Jaguar of Lake Bluff for special offers at the Unwrap a Jaguar Sales Event, now through January 2, 2019. All our new vehicles come with Jaguar EliteCare, our BestIn-Class coverage, including complimentary scheduled maintenance.

Editorial and Digital Assistant

Contributing Photographers

Contributing Illustrator

Director of Sales Advertising Sales

Advisory Council

J.W. CONATSER

DUSTIN O’REGAN

SHERRY THOMAS

KEMMIE RYAN

MONICA KASS ROGERS

ELAINE DOREMUS

CONSTANTINE JAMES

ALLISON DUNCAN

TRICIA DESPRES, ALLISON DUNCAN, ELIZA JARVI, JAKE JARVI, AND ALICE YORK

JORDAN WILLIAMS

LINDA LEWIS

DOUG ADCOCK, AMANDA ALVARADO, AMEEN QUTTEINEH REDDING WORTH

FRANK ISHMAN, JOEL LERNER, LARRY MILLER, ROBIN SUBAR

ROBERT RISKO

JULIE YOVITS

GRETCHEN BARNARD, M.J. CADDEN, BRETT EVERETT

RAHEELA ANWAR, EILEEN BENNIN, RENEE CROWN, JEFFREY EISERMAN, MAUREEN GRINNELL, DANA HUGHES, JOYCE BRUCE JIARAS, JILL KATZ, LEXIE KNOX, YOANNA KULAS, ARTHUR MILLER, MEREDITH MITCHELL, SANDRA CASPARRIELLO MURPHY, RONI MOORE NEUMANN, IBBY PINSKY, AND MONIQUE WATTS

How to reach Sheridan Road

ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: 847.926.0957 / ADVERTISING@SHERIDANRD.COM

GENERAL INQUIRIES: 847.926.0911 / INFO@SHERIDANRD.COM ON THE WEB: SHERIDANRD.COM

445 SHERIDAN ROAD, SUITE 100 / HIGHWOOD, ILLINOIS 60040 Sheridan Road is published 10 times annually by JWC Media.

*Class refers to luxury auto brands. For complete details regarding Jaguar EliteCare, please visit imperialmotors.com.

JWC Media accepts freelance contributions; however, there is no guarantee that unsolicited manuscripts, photographs, or graphics will be returned. All rights to the contents of this magazine are owned in full by JWC Media. Sheridan Road may not be reproduced in whole or in part, including but not limited to advertisements and articles, without written permission from the publisher. Sheridan Road assumes no responsibility for statements made or opinions expressed by contributing writers, editors, or advertisers. However, comments or corrections or di ering opinions are welcomed. e publisher reserves the right to edit and place all editorials and ads. © 2018 JWC Media

EDITOR’S NOTE

THIS MONTH I WILL BE O

READING

ur December/January issue celebrates the holiday season with tales of movie stars, movie studios, and the life of a cosmopolitan family on the shore. Our rst feature highlights Highland Park native and award-winning actress Rachel Brosnahan. Rachel catches up with her acting coach ATC’s Carole Dibo to chat about ATC, life on the shore, and fame. Swapping on screen for behind the screen, our second feature introduces Alex Pissios owner of Cinespace—the largest movie production space outside of Hollywood. Cinespace produces Empire, Chicago Med, Chicago PD and was the location for Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice. Leaving movie magic, we round out the features at home with Myah and Jaime Irick and their three adorable kids. Myah reveals how her family explores the histories and traditions of their

about Lake Forest’s newest jewelry store. Trading jewels for ballet slippers, Milestone showcases North Shore School of Dance and its 30th anniversary of their Nutcracker.

Moving from the stage to the studio, Art & Artist sits down with omas Benjamin delving into his multimedia body of work. Putting the camera down, Trending catches up with Chanel Dorée who is on standby to help you invest smarter with RMB Capital and its new Lake Forest o ce.

Craving comfort food in a cozy spot this winter? Dinner Date brings us Northbrook’s House 406 for a farm-to-table feast. Leaving the cold behind, First Class whisks us o to St. Lucia’s Marigot Bay—book your get-away now.

WEARING

Returning to Glencoe, Home Tour showcases the lakefront estate of the Hoover family. e vacuum cleaner magnate H. Earl Hoover and his family called this Glencoe stunner home for over 90 years. It is now on the market and could be yours for the next 90. Holiday Decor introduces oral maestro Arturo Mar of Lord & Mar.

CELEBRATING

My birthday and the holidays with my family

WISHING

You all Happy Holidays and a very Happy New Year!

diverse ethnic and cultural heritage and how she has often found herself acting as a bridge between cultures.

Shore vs. City introduces jewelry designer Nicole Sugarman who shares her raves on the shore and in the city. Continuing with the jewelry theme, Shiny and New catches up with Lisa Swayze DePrisco (yes, Patrick’s widow) to chat

We close the issue with CBS anchor Ryan Baker—an avid supporter of Ronald McDonald House—who shares the impact of AbbVie’s recent $100 million gift.

Happy holidays.

Dustin O’Regan dustin@jwcmedia.com

Sally LaPointe Airy Cashmere Silk V Neck Sweater with Fur, available at neapolitan collection, 847-441-7784

Myah, Fionna and Aiden Irick

Your guide to the latest on people, places, and things on the NORTH SHORE

Alex Soldier’s Astra line, available at Lake Forest’s newest jewelry store

DePrisco. For more information, visit amdeprisco.com

SAVE the DATE

EDITED BY KEMMIE RYAN

DECEMBER 1-30

THE NUTCRACKER

WHERE: Auditorium eatre, 50 East Congress Parkway, Chicago

WHEN: Evening and matinee performances on select dates.

TICKETS: Starting at $35. Journey to Chicago’s 1893 World’s Fair for choreographer Christopher Wheeldon’s take on this classical holiday masterpiece. Magic is on the horizon for young Marie and her mother, a sculptress creating the iconic Statue of the Republic. As they prepare for their annual holiday celebration, a visit from the charming but mysterious Grand Impresario sets o a Christmas Eve dream of whirlwind romance and adventure. jo rey.org

DECEMBER 15

FALLEN HERO WREATH CEREMONY

WHERE: Fort Sheridan Cemetery

WHEN: 11 a.m.

TICKETS: Volunteer for free or purchase a wreath for $10. Honor American heroes at Fort Sheridan Cemetery with local volunteers and the family of the late Lake Forest soldier Daniel Trew. e wreath laying and ceremony honoring fallen soldiers will begin at 11 a.m. eventbrite.com/e/2018-honordaniel-trew-and-others-at-fallen-hero-event-fort-sheridantickets-49369003017

DECEMBER 15

A CHICAGO CHORALE

CHRISTMAS

WHERE: Bennett Gordon Hall, Ravinia

WHEN: 4 or 6:30 p.m.

TICKETS: $12

Enjoy a full program of holiday tunes including audience singalong-songs. Holiday classics performed during the back-toback performances will include “Ave Maria,” “O Come, All Ye Faithful,” and more. ravinia.org

DECEMBER 15 & 16

BREAKFAST WITH SANTA

WHERE: Chicago Botanic

Garden

WHEN: 8:30, 9:30, or 10:30 a.m.

TICKETS: Adult member/nonmember $32/$37; child/senior member/non-member $24/$29; children under 2 are free. Enjoy a morning with e Big Guy at the Chicago Botanic Garden with a ticket that includes parking, a visit with Santa, and exclusive access to the beloved Wonderland Express train exhibit. chicagobotanic.org

DECEMBER 16,

JANUARY 5 & 6

ICE SCULPTING

WHERE: Chicago Botanic Garden

WHEN: 11 a.m. and 2 p.m.

TICKETS: $13 for adults; $10 for seniors and children ages 3-12. Members receive a discount and children 2 and under are free.

Ice sculptors set up shop outdoors in the courtyards of the Regenstein Center, with blocks of ice, chainsaws, and carving tools. Watch their progress

with two carving sessions, snow or shine. Tickets will include access to Wonderland Express. chicagobotanic.org/ wonderland

DECEMBER 24

HOLIDAY SING

WHERE: Village Green, 535 Maple Street, Winnetka

WHEN: 6 p.m.

TICKETS: Free Gather around the Village Green in Winnetka for the 23rd annual Holiday Sing with friends and neighbors. winpark. org/event/holiday-sing

JANUARY 12

INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE BENEFIT CONCERT

WHERE: Metro, 3730 North Clark Street, Chicago WHEN: 7 p.m.

TICKETS: $20 in advance; $22 at the door. VIP tickets available in advance for $125 and VIP tables start at $400 in advance.

Sons of the Silent Age will perform hits by David Bowie during a bene t concert with a portion of the proceeds supporting NorthShore Kellogg Cancer Center patients. foundation.northshore.org/IMConcert

JANUARY 19

PURPLE AFFAIR FOR THE BEAR

WHERE: eater on the Lake, 2401 N Lake Shore Drive, Chicago WHEN: 8 p.m. to Midnight

TICKETS: $100

Bear Necessities Young Profes-

sionals Board hosts an evening of mixing and mingling while raising funds to support pediatric cancer patients and their families. bearnecessities.org

JANUARY 25 & 26

TELLURIDE MOUNTAINFILM FESTIVAL

WHERE: John & Nancy Hughes eater at Gorton Community Center, Lake Forest WHEN: 7 p.m.

TICKETS: $15 in advance; $18 at the door.

Leading documentary lms come to Lake Forest for the third year as part of one of the longest running lm festivals in America. e adventurous and conservation-driven festival brings lms from around the world to the local audience. mountain lm.org/tour/schedule

JANUARY 26

SNOWBALL 2019

WHERE: e Field Museum, Chicago

WHEN: 8 p.m.

TICKETS: Starting at $150. Snowball, Chicago’s premier black tie event for young professionals, will raise money for the Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago’s Special Infectious Diseases Clinic, which includes the Pediatric & Adolescent HIV/AIDS Program. juniorcouncil.org

JANUARY 27

OCTET MAGIC

WHERE: Highland Park Community House WHEN: 3 p.m.

Sheridan Road provides the North Shore’s comprehensive social calendar to see what’s doing and who’s doing it.

TICKETS: $20 adults; $16 seniors; $8 students. Enjoy works by Handel, Halvorsen, Dvorak, and Mendelssohn including the exciting String Octet with Pilgrim Players’ Desirée Ruhstrat, Yerim Lee, Rabia Brooke, Rachel Hsu, Carol Cook, Aurelien Pederzoli, Calum Cook, David Cunli e, and Carol Honigberg. pilgrimplayers.org

FEBRUARY 8

BIG LAUGHS FOR BRIGHT FUTURES

WHERE: Artifact Events,

AGENDA

4325 North Ravenswood Avenue, Chicago

WHEN: 6 to 10 p.m.

TICKETS: $250

e Winnetka Board of e Northwestern University Settlement present an exciting new signature fundraiser. Expect big laughs with comedy by none other than Chicago’s own Second City. winnetkaboard. ejoinme.org/biglaughs

FEBRUARY 8

2019 FIRST LOOK FOR CHARITY WHERE: McCormick Place,

Chicago

WHEN: 7 to 11 p.m.

TICKETS: $275

Be among the rst to view the 2019 Chicago Auto Show and raise funds for the 18 area charities chosen as bene ciaries. Sip champagne, indulge in hors d’oeuvres, and view the newest cars, trucks, and SUVs at the nation’s largest auto show. is is a blacktie event. chicagoautoshow.com/ rst-look-for-charity

FEBRUARY 23

MARDI GRAS MASQUERADE

WHERE: Morgan Manufactur-

ing, 401 North Morgan Street, Chicago

WHEN: 6:30 p.m.

TICKETS: $500 per individual; Table sponsorships start at $4,000.

e Boys Hope Girls Hope of Illinois Women’s Board celebrates its 39th annual gala with a winter cocktail-chic event in Chicago. Guests will enjoy dinner by Food for ought, an exciting program and auctions, and live music by Ken Arlen Productions’ Indigo. chicagobhgh.org; facebook.com/ boyshopegirlshopeillinois

FAIRY

TALE

LYRIC OPERA OF CHICAGO continues its 2018/2019 season with the Midwest premiere of a beloved production of Cendrillon based on the Cinderella story, in the opera’s rst-ever performance on the Lyric stage. Massenet’s work features an intelligent blend of wit, sensitivity, and elegance against the backdrop of a familiar storybook kingdom. “I am thrilled that we are introducing this enchanting and magical piece to Lyric audiences for the rst time,” says Anthony Freud, Lyric’s general director, president & CEO. Cendrillon opens on Saturday, December 1, and runs for six performances at the Lyric Opera House. Sung in French with projected English translations. Tickets may be purchased at lyricopera.org/cendrillon or by calling 312-827-5600.

OH BABY

Trying to shop for the holidays with toddlers in tow is often less than a great experience for you and your little ones. In need of a lifesaver so that you and your kiddos make the most of the season?

DATE NIGHT BOUTIQUE (DNB) is a premier childcare service based in Lake Forest. Founder, Bridget Madden McManus, a lifelong North Shore resident and her team have been serving busy families from Chicago to Lake Forest since 2010. DNB provides sitters and nannies for date nights, overnights, party assistants, pet and house sitting and so much more. When you need a lifesaver during the busy holiday season (or anytime) DNB is ready to provide trustworthy, quality help and has cultivated a team of fabulous child care professionals who are devoted to making the DNB experience enjoyable and hassle free for the whole family. For more information, contact bridget@ datenightboutique.com or call, 773-706-4889.

ON EXHIBIT

An ambitious new exhibition will showcase the splendor and power of the lost kingdoms and commercial centers of Africa, using centuries-old artifacts from sites around the Sahara Desert and artwork from West and North Africa, Europe, and the Middle East that reveal the reach of Saharan networks, in a rst-of-its-kind show. e Block Museum of Art’s CARAVANS OF GOLD, FRAGMENTS IN TIME: ART, CULTURE AND EXCHANGE ACROSS MEDIEVAL SAHARAN AFRICA is the rst major exhibition to highlight West Africa’s global reach in the medieval period of the 8th to 16th centuries by looking directly at its material remains through loans from Mali, Morocco, and Nigeria. By exploring the global impact of Saharan trade routes on a medieval economy fueled by gold, the exhibition upends historical misconceptions and demonstrates Africa’s in uence on medieval Europe, North Africa, the Middle East, and beyond. Caravans of Gold will debut at the Block Museum January 26 through July 21, 2019, before traveling to the Aga Khan Museum in Toronto (fall 2019) and the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African Art in Washington, D.C. (spring 2020). For more information, visit blockmuseum.northwestern.edu

Cendrillon. Photography by Bill Cooper

Almohad ten dinar coin ruler: Abū Hafs Omar al-Mortadhā, date of ruler 1248–1266, gold, Collection of Bank al-Maghrib, Photograph by Fouad Mahdaoui

Helping you achieve your goals has always been ours

Source: Barron’s “Top 1,200 Financial Advisors” list considers advisors with a minimum of seven years financial services experience and have been employed at their current firm for at least one year (March 12, 2018). This is a list of the top advisors in each state, with the number of ranking spots determined by each state’s population and wealth. Other quantitative and qualitative measures include assets under management, revenues generated by advisors for their firms, and the quality of the advisors’ practices, regulatory records, internal company documents, and 100-plus points of data provided by the advisors themselves. Rankings are based on the opinions of Barron’s and not representative nor indicative of any one client’s experience, future performance, or investment outcome and should not be construed as an endorsement of the advisor. For more information, visit https://www.barrons.com/report/top-financial-advisors/1000/2018. Barron’s is a trademark of Dow Jones & Company, Inc. All rights reserved.

Source: The Forbes ranking of “Top 250 Wealth Advisors,” by SHOOK Research ranks thousands of wealth advisors with a minimum of seven years of experience and weighs factors like revenue trends, assets under management, compliance records, industry experience and best practices learned through interviews. Rankings are based on the opinions of Forbes and not representative nor indicative of any one client’s experience, future performance, or investment outcome and should not be construed as an endorsement of the advisor. For more information, visit https://www.forbes. com/top-wealth-advisors. All rights reserved.

Source: Forbes “Best-in-State Wealth Advisors” by SHOOK Research is based on due diligence meetings to evaluate each advisor qualitatively, a major component of a ranking algorithm that includes: client retention, industry experience, review of compliance records, firm nominations; and quantitative criteria, including: assets under management and revenue generated for their firms. Rankings are based on the opinions of Forbes and not representative nor indicative of any one client’s experience, future performance, or investment outcome and should not be construed as an endorsement of the advisor. For more information, visit https://www.forbes.com/top-next-gen-advisors/#c7072b16df01. Forbes is a trademark of Forbes Media LLC. All rights reserved. Merrill Lynch Wealth Management makes available products and services offered by Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated, a registered broker-dealer and Member SIPC, and other subsidiaries of Bank of America Corporation.

Investment products: Are Not FDIC InsuredAre Not Bank GuaranteedMay Lose Value

The Bull Symbol and Merrill Lynch are trademarks of Bank of America Corporation. CRPC® is a registered service mark of The College for Financial Planning. © 2018 Bank of America Corporation. All rights reserved.

GLENCOE’S

NICOLE SUGARMAN

SHINES BRIGHT WITH HER LUXURY JEWELRY LINE ORA NICOLE.

For more information about Sugarman, visit oranicole.com

What’s on the horizon? Just launched a beautiful and contemporary jewelry line called Exposed Mantra? Never let fear dictate your future Best grooming tip? Wear SPF sunblock Guilty pleasure? Red velvet cupcakes with cream cheese frosting Favorite foods? I am a foodie and love to try different foods Music you love? U2, Rolling Stones, Springsteen, Radiohead, Coldplay Best advice ever given to you? To not base decisions on what other people think is right for you. If you dig deep, you know what is right Best advice you’ve given? Al-

ON THE SHORE

Your style is ... ? Jeans and a tee, little make-up, hair pulled back, and sunglasses Transportation? Range Rover Sport Driving music? “Whatever it takes ... ” Imagine Dragons, “Beautiful Trauma ... ” Pink Place to Shop? Forward by Elyse Walker online when I do not have time to shop Best thing about the Shore? e schools and community are amazing and the beach is so close Worst thing about the Shore? Few restaurant options e perfect day is ... ? Watching my son’s tennis tournaments. en snuggle in sweats, relax, and watch movies with my family, order dinner in, a glass of wine, and chill

ways choose strength—you can overcome any obstacle in life no matter how di cult it may seem Earliest memory? Times with my grandparents—it is when I truly became aware of unconditional love and acceptance When you wake up, you ... ? Go straight to the co ee machine Before bed, you ... ? Read to my kids, watch TV with my son. en take a bath What’s on your bookshelf? Gillian Flynn’s books. I have read them all, from Gone Girl to Sharp Objects You can’t live without? My kids, Reed and Arielle Love to escape to? Aspen, New York City, Cabo Advice you would give to your younger self? You are amazing. Do not let anyone ever make you feel that you are not. If they do … walk away. You deserve better

IN THE CITY

Your style is ... ? Dresses and stilettos. I have nally reached an age where I embrace it all and am lucky to feel great and healthy Can’t leave the house without? Co ee, phone, and keys Transportation? Range Rover Sport Place to eat? Monteverde Place to Shop? Intermix, Louboutin, and Yves Saint Laurent Best thing about the City?

e energy, diversity, culture, and restaurants

Worst thing about the City? Crime and gun violence e perfect day is ... ? Date night with my husband, a stroll on the Gold Coast, dinner at Monteverde, and a night at the Four Seasons

EDITED BY DUSTIN O’REGAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBIN SUBAR HAIR, MAKEUP, AND STYLING BY CONSTANTINE JAMES

Rolling Stones

2019 Range Rover Sport

Ora Nicole Moon Struck cu

Ora Nicole Valentina earrings

RARE GEM

Lisa Niemi Swayze DePrisco opens up about loss, nding love again, and a new venture with the opening of A.M. DePrisco Jewelers in Lake Forest.

WORDS BY ELAINE DOREMUS PHOTOGRAPHY BY ALEX PEREZ

Throughout her 34-year marriage to the beloved late actor and dancer Patrick Swayze, Lisa Niemi Swayze (herself an acclaimed dancer, actress, producer, and best-selling author) wore the simple gold band from their wedding day. She favored more eclectic, ethnic jewelry that she found on trips all over the world, and, in short, she didn’t really go for bling. Now, with new husband and owner of his eponymous jewelry business, Albert DePrisco, Niemi has quickly gained an appreciation for every girl’s best friend. DePrisco proposed to Niemi with a 5-carat radiant diamond engagement ring.

“Hanging around with Albert is very fun,” says Niemi from her southeast Florida home, one of several around the country (including Wellesley, Massachusetts, Los Angeles, and New Mexico) that she shares with DePrisco. “He’s sentimental and is always bringing something home. He sees things and puts them aside. I have four di erent wedding rings, but I have to say my favorite is my engagement ring.”

Now, Niemi and DePrisco are bringing their shared appreciation for precious gems and ne jewelry to Lake Forest with the opening of A.M. DePrisco Jewelry in the former location of Jewels of Lake Forest. e opening on the North Shore marks

A.M. DePrisco’s rst venture into the Midwest. It currently has presences in Los Angeles, Boca Raton, and Wellesley, Massachusetts (location of its agship store and DePrisco’s home). A.M. DePrisco’s style combines expert jewelers and gemologists with attention to detail and customer privacy, specializing in merchandise and services including ne designer collections, custom jewelry, vintage jewelry, and timepieces.

Niemi says that DePrisco selected Lake Forest for several reasons. “It’s an incredibly lovely community with a wonderful vibe. It feels very much like Wellesley,” says Niemi. Also, the new salon will be owned and operated by Chicago natives and Lake Forest residents Jon and Jennifer Smoter (Niemi’s niece) “Albert is very family- minded, and he wants to continue keeping it in the family,” adds Niemi.

And, Niemi has a particu-

lar a ection for the Chicago area. “Patrick and I spent time there when he was shooting e Beast and undergoing treatment at Northwestern for his pancreatic cancer,” says Niemi, who became an ambassador for the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network after Swayze’s death in 2009. “He was working 14 to 16 hour days, and you’d think that would be extremely stressful, but Patrick and I knew that every day was a victory to be alive. I got to see him as a true hero in real life. He was wise, and possessed a quiet bravery with wisdom, kindness, and humility. It was absolutely heroic the way Patrick faced his disease, and we were so aware of the gift we got every day to open our eyes and see the sun stream in. If anything, Chicago has a little bit of magic for me.”

e last piece that cemented the Lake Forest salon was when A.M. DePrisco Jewelers secured Chicago master jeweler Marc Scherer to manage the store on a daily basis. Scherer is best known for discovering a magical element to the famous, 56-carat one-of-a-kind “Serendipity” color-changing sapphire, which was deemed priceless after Scherer, who won a global competition to set the gemstone over a number of other prominent designers, discovered its uniqueness. e Serendipity sapphire is now on exhibit at the Field Museum.

“Marc and Albert have the same philosophy and mindset, and a way of looking at custom creations,” says Smoter. “We are excited to bring the legacy of A.M. DePrisco and Marc Scherer’s talent to customers. And we look forward to growing the business together with Lisa and Albert.”

DePrisco Jewelers will carry collections from international and celebrity designers Alex Soldier, Roberto Demeglio, Atelier Tom Munsteiner, Sutra, Mastoloni Pearls, and Benny Sofer NYC.

“Jon and Jennifer are going to be wonderful in this new endeavor,” adds Niemi. “I’m so impressed with their fun attitude, attention to detail, industriousness, hard work ethic, and great sense of community.”

A.M. DePrisco Jewelers is located at 284 E. Deerpath Road in Lake Forest, 847-615-2900, amdeprisco.com.

Lisa Niemi Swayze DePrisco and Jennifer Smoter

SUMMIT

HIGHLAND PARK

PLEASANT AVENUE HIGHLAND PARK 1787 SPRUCE STREET HIGHLAND PARK

NORTHBROOK

THIRTY YEARS of THE NUTCRACKER

Sheridan Road congratulates North Shore School of Dance on their 30th production of e Nutcracker.

WORDS BY ALICE YORK PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVE SIEVERT

It has been 30 years since Lisa Gold rst brought e Nutcracker to the North Shore School of Dance, a Highland Park institution founded by Carol Walker in 1971. “I’ve truly grown up here,” says Gold, who was handed the reins in 1989 by her mentor Rory Foster, and who has herself been a part of the school since she rst began attending classes at age 11.

“ e year I took over, I decided we should put together a winter show. It was a uke idea!” Gold shares. “I’d only been running things since that summer! But I knew we just had to do e Nutcracker.” e result was a small production, a modi ed version from the full-length production, with simple costumes, held at the old church location in Highwood.

After that rst year, Gold realized how important staging e Nutcracker was to the training of her students. It soon moved to her alma mater, Barat Conservatory of Dance in Lake Forest, which helped to develop the production, incorporating the college students as performers and as tech support. e sets just kept getting bigger, and the costumes more elaborate. Gold brought in professionals to do the choreography, ne tuning everything as they went along, and watching it all grow.

is concept of growth is crucial to the mission and philosophy of the school: “We value where our training comes from, starting at age two through adulthood. We aren’t competitive—

we train for the stage and we help our dancers become the very best they can be.”

“ ere have been so many generations that have come through the school,” she adds. “We have former students now bringing their children and grandchildren. It’s a warm history.”

And to this new generation of dancers, she has this piece of advice: “Take ballet. It is the foundation of all dance. Even if you don’t want to become a ballerina, ballet will help you build technique, strength, alignment, and placement. It is a tool for success.”

To learn more about NSSD, visit northshoredance.com.

NSSD’s The Nutcracker

NSSD’s The Nutcracker

Find the Care You Need

Whether it’s struggling through any one of life’s many stages, healing from trauma, repairing a broken relationship, or learning to understand ourselves and loved one better – taking care of our behavioral health is vital to our whole health and well-being.

As we celebrate our 50th anniversary at The Family Institute, we continue to evolve our treatment and mental health care, as families and relationships evolve – to serve Families, Couples, Children and Individuals in the Chicagoland area.

Find a therapist:

847 733 4300

family-institute.org

FASHION & BEAUTY

SNOW DAY

Cool looks to heat up the slopes

Karen Morris Millinery Tora, available at Karen Morris Millinery, kmhats.com

SKI BUNNY

Whether on the mountain or in front of the re, these are our ski trip FAVORITES.

EDITED BY ALLISON DUNCAN

Chicago, 312-651-4415 at

Ban.do Lilac Pu er Jacket, available at Ban.do, bando.com 02 Eberjey Nordic Stripes Eye Mask, available at Eberjey, eberjey.com 03 Ban.do Furry Stripe Coat, available at Ban. do, bando.com 04 Sally LaPointe Pant and Bomber, available at neapolitan collection, 847441-7784 05 THE GREAT. Alpine Ski Sweater, available at Nordstrom Old Orchard, 847-677-2121 06 Warby Parker Holiday Percey, available at Warby Parker, warbyparker. com 07 Dior diorcamp Low Boot in Black Rubber with Double Lacing, available at Dior Chicago, 312-651-4415 08 Adam Lippes Brushed Cashmere Knit Circle Skirt, available at neapolitan collection, 847-441-7784 09 Tory Sport Cropped Apres Ski Sweater in Snow White, available at Tory Burch Chicago, 312-280-0010 10 Tory Sport Down Satin Pullover Jacket in Conifer-Cotton Pink, available at Tory Burch Chicago, 312-280-0010 11 Smith Drift Snow Goggles, available at Nordstrom Old Orchard, 847-677-2121 12 UGG Classic

Short Patchwork Fur Boot, available at UGG, ugg.com 13 Outdoor Voices MegaFleece Short in Oatmeal, available at Outdoor Voices, outdoorvoices.com 14 Madewell Packable Pu er, available at Madewell, madewell.com

Short Patchwork Fur Boot,

“I

Dr. John Q. Cook

BEST DRESSED

WHO WORE IT WHEN, WHERE, AND WONDERFULLY

Sheridan Road delivers the season’s inspired looks—worn by you— as seen on the North Shore.

MELISSA

TRANDEL Lela Rose at Neiman Marcus

STACY ANDREASEN House In The Wood Gala

LESLIE WEIGANDT House In The Wood Gala

NANCY LEDINSKEY House In The Wood Gala

KELLY AZIM House In The Wood Gala

Women with a Cause

Legion of Young Polish Women celebrates 80 years of grace, philanthropy, and heritage

CULTURE & ARTS

THE NORTH SHORE’S MOST CREATIVE PURSUITS

DASHING THROUGH THE SNOW

The Joffrey Ballet and Chicago Shakespeare Theater offer hot performances to keep you out of the cold

The Jo rey Ballet’s Anna Karenina dancers Victoria Jaiani and Alberto Velazquez

A DIALOGUE OF DUALITY

Artist omas Benjamin creates harmony between photography and painting in his hybrid works with a language all their own.

WORDS BY ALICE YORK

PHOTOGRAPHY BY THOMAS BENJAMIN

Thomas Benjamin’s background in architecture undoubtedly comes through in his layered, intricate, and structural landscapes and industrial scenes. A former student of the Frank Lloyd Wright School of Architecture (now e School of Architecture at Taliesin), Benjamin followed his brother to the University of New Mexico

and into photography. “All of a sudden I was getting good grades,” he says of the switch, laughing. “Photography felt natural.”

Benjamin says he can’t remember a time when he wasn’t making art, be it visually or through music (he has played bass semi-professionally since high school): “I’ve always been artistic—I’ve always loved drawing, particularly architectural drawing and design. I knew at an early age that I wanted to create.”

After his time in Albuquerque, he pursued a multimedia major in photography and painting at the University of Illinois. From there, he applied to the School of the Art Institute, interviewing with iconic Chicago artist Ray Yoshida. Benjamin received his masters from the famed institution in photography and painting. is duality he explored at both schools, this hybrid approach, would set the tone for his life’s work: “Ever since exploring the dialogue between photography and painting, I’ve learned one doesn’t need to exert power or dominance over the other. I try to create equality between the two—I let them inform each other.”

Steel bridge at Selwyn Trail, Charlotte, North Carolina

A product of his SAIC thesis exhibit was his rst big show, taking place at the John Michael Kohler Art Center. Later, he was shown at the Joy Horwich Gallery (which also represented Judy Chicago), a relationship that continued for years. e following decades included a move to North Carolina, where he served as professor of photography of the Art Institute of Charlotte for ve years, and back to Illinois to care for his 93-year-old father (a long time resident of Lake Blu and publisher for Cen o, Inc. since 1953), who was dying of cancer.

e self-described “Northsider from birth” who grew up in Lake Blu and was part of Lake Forest High School’s Class of ’81, now lives in Florida, a move which has greatly informed his current work: “I paint what I see,” he explains. In this current iteration, he is able to devote himself to his art and music full time and says he is relishing in it.

Benjamin counts the Impressionists among his greatest in uences, particularly Manet, Monet, and Degas: “ ese guys, this collective of great minds, sitting around a table talking about painting and philosophy and life—I feel really connected to that. How they turned the art world onto its head—they were seeing the world in an incredibly new way thanks to photography. It changed painting forever. It’s changed the way we see things.” He also counts the work of Van Gogh and Seurat among his other inspirations, saying, “I used to sit in front of A Sunday on La Grande Jatte for hours. How the dot created an image, that’s comparable to photography.”

Benjamin’s work is not only the conversation between photography and painting but between man, technology, and nature. His process begins with photography: he takes hundreds of images, from factory to forest, sometimes using a pinhole lens to create a dreamlike image. He then reinterprets the scene, combining images, piecing and blending them together, manipulating what is seen by using Photoshop. e result is an altered reality and change of perspective.

After printing the nal product, he paints on the photograph

with oil paint, using rags not brushes, so as not to leave a mark: “I try to avoid marks—the mark doesn’t make the image, the image makes the mark,” he says. He plays with transparency versus opaqueness, control, and respect, letting the image tell him what it wants him to paint and what it wants him to leave untouched. “Photographs capture detail,” Benjamin relates, “but humans add emotions.”

For more information, contact thosbenjamin@gmail.com, or call 224436-1946 or visit facebook.com/tbenjamin neart.

Cemex Titusville, FL 3.24.2018

Ballantyne Greenway

Thomas Benjamin, Self-portrait

THEATER

FAIRY PHENOM

A triple-threat of the stage, sound, and page, Alexandra Silber has roles from Broadway to the West End, a Grammy nod (and live performance), and two published books under her belt. is winter she shines as Titania, the Fairy queen, in Chicago Shakespeare’s riveting new run of A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

Growing up in the Detroit area, coming to see theater in Chicago was a big part of Alexandra Silber’s life. As an introverted child dealing with her father’s cancer diagnosis, Silber learned that acting was a productive way to work through big feelings.

As a teenager, she played Annie Sullivan in e Miracle Worker, rst in Detroit and then at Interlochen, the themes of su ering and healing relating heavily to her own life and father’s battle. “I realized, even at 16, how important approaching acting from an authentic, connected place was, and how powerful the work is when it’s deeply personal.”

Silber’s father passed away when she was only 18. “I never really got to say goodbye, but the theater allows you to breathe life in and experience things in a new way—it creates alternate universes.” is was especially pronounced during her long run as Hodel in Fiddler on the Roof on the West End (she later played Tzeitel in its Tony-nominated Broadway revival)—the impact of that role inspired her book After Anatevka: A Novel Inspired by Fiddler on the Roof, followed by White Hot Grief Parade, a memoir about losing her father.

Many more prestigious roles followed, including Maria in West Side Story. e recording of this presentation, accompanied by the San Francisco Symphony, led to a live performance at the 57th Grammy Awards alongside Cheyenne Jackson and a nomination. But it was during Silber’s junior year of high school, when she saw A Midsummer Night’s Dream, directed by Joe Dowling, that the stage was set for her current role. is time around, it will be Silber performing the dual role of Titania and Hippolyta in Dowling’s acclaimed interpretation of the Shakespeare classic: “It feels so full circle now, as an adult actor, to be a part of this production.”

Running through January 27, 2019, this reimagining of the production that inaugurated Chicago Shakespeare eater’s very rst season, will weave together original music—a wild blend of styles as varied as jazz and doowop—humor, and the visionary staging the theater has become known for. “ is won’t be the typical pastoral scene you’re used to,” explains Silber. “ e design and concept of the fairy world is going to be fun, subversive and slightly dark.”

“I’ve always dreamed of being some part of the Chicago theater world—it’s internationally known as a crucible of creativity and innovation. Everything important that’s happening creatively is happening here.”

She adds, “And as a Midwesterner, I’m just excited to come home.”

For production information and ticketing, visit chicagoshakes.com. To learn more about Silber, and to purchase her books, visit alexandrasilber.net.

WORDS BY ALICE YORK / PHOTOGRAPHY BY JEFF SCIORTINO

DOLLARS & SENSE

CHANEL DORÉE is a wealth advisor, Lincoln Park resident, and Lake Forest native who splits time between RMB Capital’s new Lake Forest o ce and its Chicago headquarters. Dorée is also chairwomen of RMB’s “Women Invested”—a network celebrating women and money, which includes all of the company’s female employees. e network provides opportunities for professional growth, mentoring, and relationship building, and looks for ways to engage communities of women outside the rm. Here is how this busy advisor stays on trend.

EDITED BY DUSTIN O’REGAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBIN SUBAR

ON HER BOOKSHELF

“I am typically drawn to suspense thrillers and Karin Slaughter’s Pieces of Her does not disappoint. I often nd myself reading late into the night collecting the clues she leaves for me as each page turns.  e meatier Hillbilly Elegy: A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis by J.D. Vance, has been collecting dust as I plot to read Karin’s Will Trent Series next.”

ON HER MOBILE

“I start most mornings with e NYTimes Morning Brie ng, arriving in my inbox promptly at 5:45 a.m. e snippets of information keep me current on the day’s headlines as I head into meetings with clients. You will also nd me reading recipes on the eKitchn. com and scanning Red n for the latest gems in the neighborhood.”

IN HER EARBUDS

“I rely on Spotify to craft playlists to t the mood of the moment. As we work to plan a trip to Paris over the New Year, I have rediscovered an old favorite YELLE. She tests my basic French skills and pushes my tempo at the gym.”

ON POINTE

e Jo rey Ballet presents Anna Karenina February 13 through 24 as choreographed by Yuri Possokhov.

EDITED BY DUSTIN O’REGAN / PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF THE JOFFREY BALLET

genius, and so we are looking to amplify the music by nding the love and passion through movement. Every dancer in this company is unique and sometimes seeing di erent people dance completely changes my vision.

Can you describe IIya Demutsky’s music in the ballet? He has a tendency toward minimalism. He’s a unique person. It’s hard to nd someone with a symphonic background. He knows how the music is orchestrated. He’s doing music with a contemporary twist, but his background is symphonic, which is rare. He is unique in this time.

Russian-born choreographer Yuri Possokhov is among the most active and imaginative choreographers working in ballet today. After receiving his early training at the Moscow Ballet School, Possokhov danced his way to the San Francisco Ballet and joined as a principal dancer in 1994. Following his retirement as principal dancer in 2006, Possokhov was named choreographer-in-residence. As a choreographer, Possokhov has amassed a long list of credits including the Isadora Duncan Dance Award for Outstanding Choreography. In addition to Anna Karenina, Possokhov has choreographed e Jo rey Ballet’s Bells, Adagio, Don Quixote, and e Miraculous Mandarin. Lake Forest’s Melissa Trandel—a women’s board member—asks Possokhov about his vision for Anna Karenina, his work with e Jo rey, and his long friendship with Artistic Director Ashley Wheater.

Trandel: What is your vision for this version of Anna Karenina?

Possokhov: As a choreographer, I think it’s so important to start ballet from ground zero and music is number one. is music is

What qualities do Victoria Jaiani and Alberto Velazquez possess that make them perfect to portray Anna and Vronsky? Without them, I wouldn’t know how to start choreographing this ballet. If you don’t know the perfect people for the roles, it is hard to create and teach. ey have a certain individuality that’s matched to these roles, even if we never discuss the book … it’s not necessary. People read Tolstoy their own way and I don’t want to bring that into it. I’ll give them my interpretation of what the characters are thinking—and sometimes, on purpose, I don’t want to push them to do what I feel, because it is much more natural coming from them.

You and Jo rey’s Artistic Director Ashley Wheater danced together in the San Francisco Ballet. How is it to be working together again? How has the relationship evolved?

I think our friendship grows stronger and stronger. It doesn’t matter how much we talk or how often we see each other, inside the feeling is strong. It’s like a heartbeat. I like having him in my life. is is a very touching moment for me.

Is there an aspect of e Jo rey you admire most?

e dancers. I’m also so impressed with the ballet masters and principal coaches, but most important for me is the artists. It’s not always easy for me to choreograph, but it is with Jo rey because the dancers are so openminded, they easily pick up choreography, and musically, they are amazing. ey are so helpful. I credit that to Ashley. He built this.

For more information, please visit jo rey.org.

Yuri Possokhov

FOOD & TRAVEL

From a farm-to-table favorite to faraway fantasy lands, here is a guide to the best of LOCAL cuisine and LUXURY travel

HOUSE 406

WORDS BY JAKE AND ELIZA JARVI PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBIN SUBAR

Garlic Butter Poached Lobster Crostini

verything we needed to know about House 406, we learned when the cocktails arrived. A rye-based drink called Good Hunting arrives swimming in a haze of wood smoke encased in a bell jar. We pulled the jar away, releasing a deep camp re scent that lingered as we took our rst sip. e Raspberry Margarita arrives as a glass of straight tequila with three ruby globes suspended within. e globes are frozen spheres of muddled raspberry and brandy that dissolve slowly over the experience of the drink, creating an evolution of color and avor. Beverage Director Justin Di Lorenzo’s attention to visual air and avor narrative beautifully set the stage for an evening of thoughtfully considered and perfectly designed culinary delights.

ough House 406 projects the air of an updated take to an upscale modern steakhouse, they made sure to preserve elements of approachability at every turn, both in the presence of delectable comfort cuisine—like the cheeseburger and the onion rings— and a nice weeknight price point. e wait sta and Proprietor/ General Manager Jenn Elsen brought a similar warmth to every interaction, injecting the rich cognac, slate, and espresso tones of the environment with a spirit of inviting hospitality.

A petite, sumptuous bite to begin the meal. is decadent starter pairs buttery lobster with the satisfying crunch of toasted crostini. A bold kick of garlic aioli with a building Cajun spice

House 406 is located at 1143 1⁄2 Church Street in Northbrook, 847714-0200, house406restaurant.com.

House 406 has a very simple recipe for success. Everything that comes to the table is unique and exceptional.

rounds out the avors and is bolstered by the creaminess of Swiss cheese.

Chef Eloin Amador and his son

DINNER DATE

Ground Short Rib & Brisket Burger

is was unlike any cheeseburger we’d ever experienced, starting from the most elemental ingredient: a ground and grilled patty of short rib and brisket. is combination made for an intensely savory base, then ampli ed by crisp, thick-cut strips of smoky bacon and a slice of provolone cheese. e burger is accompanied by thick, crispy potato wedges and a ramekin of housemade ketchup, which are the perfect combination to reset the palate and make the most of every bite of the entree.

Grilled Lamb Chops

e picture speaks for this one. e elegant bone-in cuts of lamb are grilled to perfection and served on a bed of Moroccan-inspired vegetables and couscous. In our experience, lamb is never better than when prepared with the avors of the Mediterranean and Proprietor/Chef Eloin Amador somehow nails it. It’s succulent, tender, and absolutely addictive. e accompanying eggplant, onions, and chickpeas make for a dish steeped in smoky avors, lots of paprika and cumin, and the couscous adds a lovely element of subtlety both in avor and texture.

AH CAPELLA

Whether arriving by land or by sea, there is a resort and marina in Saint Lucia’s Marigot Bay that o ers everything you might need to explore this beautiful Eastern Caribbean country in style. Grab a rum drink and prepare to set sail for an adventure.

WORDS BY SHERRY THOMAS

The luxury begins within minutes of stepping o the plane. And trust us, you may need what is awaiting you here in the small and steamy bustle that is the Saint Lucia international airport. e air is heavy and warm and the journey from Chicago requires a few stopovers, so you’re tired. People are coming up to you and your suitcase asking if you need transport, or help nding a place to stay, with local entrepreneurs almost outnumbering passengers. Potentially overwhelming, yes. But you can keep walking because (as your personal assistant has already emailed you in advance) the kiosk for Capella Marigot Bay Resort and Marina is straight ahead, and there is a woman

Capella Marigot Bay Marina

waiting there with a fresh, scented towel and a cold drink.

You are told that a driver will be fetching you shortly for the hour drive up the side of the mountain and in the meantime, would you like your signature iced tea that awaits at the resort to be with rum, or without? at’s when you know this journey will be a good one. In the world of luxury travel, thoughtful details like that matter, and aside from four days of stunning views and unexpected adventures on the mainland, it’s the small things at Capella that make a big impression.

On the winding drive up past banana trees and coconuts—windows down—you will learn more about the island of Saint Lucia and what makes it unique among its Caribbean counterparts. Your driver is a local who has traveled the world but always comes back home (because that’s what Saint Lucians do, he says). Family is important and community is celebrated, as is a proud culture rooted in the towering Piton volcano peaks and mountains that are so dramatic they almost don’t look real.

And yet, it’s this massive dormant volcano and the island’s unusual topography that makes it so attractive. Adventure-seekers love the hidden beaches, volcanic mud spas, and reef diving; luxury-seekers love the international yacht-hopping vibe and stunning ve-star resorts. Besides that, the unusually high mountain cli s and minimal tidal changes make the island of Saint Lucia almost hurricane proof, hence Marigot Bay’s nickname as “hurricane hole” and its reputation as one of the safest places to drop anchor during the stormy season.

Your sojourn at Capella gives you a taste of it all, from an award-winning indigenous spa (with a treehouse) and suite-style villas (with private hot tubs) to restaurants with “farm to fork” cuisine designed to please the most discriminating foodie. Recently inducted into the Preferred Hotels & Resorts network, the property appeals to a diverse list of clientele. Couples seeking solitude and privacy will enjoy the attentive sta (who leave a personal,

hand-written note every day) and nightly amenities (ranging from chilled Piton beer to a complimentary bottle of the resort’s house rum) and families will appreciate suite options (including six penthouse suites with private plunge pools) that live like private homes—with enough bedrooms and bathrooms for all, a gourmet kitchen with Ne appliances, Bose sound system, and a sleek dining and living room area with abundant views.

If you want to get a taste of local life, chart a private yacht or sailboat to the edge of the Pitons with sunrises and sunsets you only see on postcards. If you prefer to stay in, grab a cabana by the pool, order fresh sushi from the Brut bar, and enjoy the sunshine into the evening.

While there are several ve-star resorts in Saint Lucia, one thing that sets Capella Marigot Bay apart from the rest is its recently-renovated marina. ose fortunate enough to own a mega yacht can plan to wait out hurricane season at Capella, anchoring ship in a place where they can not only go through customs without leaving the resort, but take care of all the necessary waste removal, engine maintenance, refueling, hull cleaning, and polishing before heading back out to the ocean. ere are 20 mooring locations anchored in the bay with the capacity to berth 42 yachts (or 28 at maximum yacht size, which is 280 feet), making it a popular destination for elite travelers from around the world.

e new marina even has a small market (great for nding local products and groceries, if you feel up to cooking in that gourmet kitchen) and upscale boutiques for the nest designer resort wear. Another attractive feature is that guests staying on their own private yachts can also opt into the amenities enjoyed by guests staying at the resort guest rooms and villas—from the decadent Auriga Spa to the restaurants to the double-decker pools and exclusive concierge-arranged outings. Like you, they can also get their own 24/7 personal assistant.

Speaking of which, your itinerary awaits...

St. Lucia

Here are just ve things you can do while visiting Capella Marigot Bay Resort and Marina (marigotbayresort.com):

RUM TASTING

e production of rum is integral to the colonial history of Saint Lucia, with fabled tales of rum-runners and pirates. If you’ve ever wanted to learn more about how it’s made and what makes it the drink of choice on the islands, there are several ways to educate yourself. e obvious (and very fun) choice is right on the resort with an intimate Rum Cave that houses specialty local rums and o ers rum tasting classes in a space reminiscent of an authentic distillery. Once you get a taste for it and learn the di erence between aged white rums and infused dark rums, go one step further with a guided tour of a working rum distillery. No ip ops or open-toed sandals are allowed on the Saint Lucia Rum Distillery tour for safety purposes and when you’re done with the tour, you’ll get to taste more di erent types of rum than you even knew existed—including some that are so potent only the bravest dare try.

e Rum Cave also o ers food and is noted for its cigar bar. Hurricane Hole by the water is a full-service restaurant with a more casual vibe, featuring ve at screen televisions and food that Executive Chef Billy Boyle describes as “fun food.” But your very favorite may end up being the Brut Bar by the pool, where fresh sushi is prepared before your eyes and you can take your drinks and snacks straight to your cabana. Just say “ahhhh.”

LAND LUBBERS

e beautiful Marigot Bay is at the heart of just about every activity you embark on here, even if it’s just taking in the views of yachts and sailboats from your marina-side table near the dock. But there are many adventures that take you o the boat and into the rain forests and volcanic landscape that has made Soufriere so famous (did we mention the Caribbean’s only “drive-in volcano” is located here?) Our journey included a hike up to an outdoor spa where you can bathe in volcanic mud at Sulphur Springs amidst a botanical garden and dramatic waterfall. Another land and sea combo option to consider is a Gros Piton Nature Climb and Swim that takes you to the base of one of the island’s most iconic landmarks—the UNESCO World Heritage Gros Piton—and then on a guided hike up to 2,619 feet above sea level. You can also choose to take a boat ride to the northern part of the island to explore the fort and military ruins used during 14 battles between the French and the British or zip line into panoramic vistas along the historic Morne Fortune and enjoy a creole lunch at a 140-year-old plantation nestled in lush tropical gardens.

ON THE WATERFRONT

INDIGENOUS SPA TREATMENTS

What’s a luxury resort without a luxury spa? e award-winning Auriga Spa does not disappoint. Inspired by Saint Lucia’s natural environment, the spa utilizes indigenous ingredients, with signature treatments connected to the phases of the moon and their impact on the body. Your itinerary for this journey includes the Fiksyon Fwote, an invigorating experience that includes a fusion of traditional “rub” techniques and warm bamboo sticks with a native potion to stimulate natural healing powers of the body while relaxing the muscular system. Other popular spa treatments include facials, enzyme peels, and a variety of massages. Ask your personal assistant about the private treehouse for an experience you’ll never forget.

GOURMET DINING

Dining options abound with a menu option for almost every palate (not to mention 24-hour in-room dining and beverage service). e resort’s signature restaurant is e Grill at 14 (degree symbol) 61 (degree symbol), an open-air show kitchen with breathtaking views of Marigot Bay. e chef utilizes a hand-crafted wood burning grill to create what can only be described as culinary theater with exquisite local ingredients.

When it comes to water-based adventures from Capella, the question isn’t what can you do but what can’t you do. Up for kayaking on the Roseau river, ask your personal assistant to book you for a two-hour tour to a banana plantation guided by a personal instructor. If you prefer snorkeling, a tour (including snacks and non-alcoholic drinks) to the breathtaking coast of Soufriere will have you snorkeling at the base of the Pitons in a reserve that is home to a variety of colorful tropical sh. Other water options include scuba diving into diverse coral reefs and underwater cli walls; coast shing and snorkeling on the western side of the island, led by a personal skipper; or a group deep sea shing expedition where you can cast for Blue Marlin, Sail sh, Tuna, Wahoo, King sh, Snapper, and Dorado. Or you could opt for our favorite, a private sunset cruise that includes sparkling wine and your own crew.

Most land and water adventures leave from the Marigot Bay Marina but are organized by Salt Water Services, available via your personal assistant or by emailing saltwaterservices@gmail.com directly.

GENERATIONS IN GLENCOE

e Hoover estate is an enduring love letter to its beloved village of Glencoe, its Tudor walls revealing the story of philanthropy, dedication, and family.

WORDS BY ALICE YORK / PHOTOGRAPHY BY PLANOMATIC

Rear facade

In 1926 H. Earl Hoover, chairman of Hoover vacuums and nephew of its founder, W.H. Hoover, purchased a Dutch-style farmhouse on Green Bay Road. With headquarters in Canton, Ohio, Glencoe kept him in the Midwest but a orded plenty of privacy, space to raise a family, and proximity to the company’s Chicago o ces.

In the late 1920s and early ’30s, Hoover embarked on extensive renovations of the property, converting it into a proper English Tudor, spanning over 10,000 square feet, and adding a coach house and a stable house. A second oor was added to the main house, with a large great room the family adored and lovingly referred to as e Studio. For this space alone, Hoover imported wood oors from England—no attention to detail was spared. Intricate wood trim abounds—nearly every component of the estate, it seems, has been touched by expert craftsmen. e slate-clad roof is adorned with copper gutters. Every element was approached thoughtfully and executed with great consideration.

Magni cent beamed cathedral ceilings and 12-foot glass windows on each side of the house showcase the home’s vast surroundings: an expanse of green that seems to go on forever, punctuated by mighty trees. ese sprawling grounds span across more than 12 acres, complete with walking trails and a sunken garden (best viewed through the sunroom’s oor-to-ceiling windows). From the moment you enter through the gates and make your way down the wooded driveway, the e ect is serene, secluded, and nothing short of magical.

It was just this past March when Miriam Hoover, the widow of H. Earl who died in 1985 at age 94, passed away—after over

90 years in the family, the house would nally hit the market, one of the largest privately-owned pieces of property in Cook County (at press time, it is listed at $15.9 million). “Once you land on the property, you can feel how special it is. e character of the place has been so well-preserved—you can feel the history,” explains Dreamtown’s Hadley Rue, noted by the agency and the Chicago Association of Realtors as a Top Producer, who holds the exclusive listing for the estate.

e Hoovers, though private, entertained regularly at the house, and were particularly known for their jolly Christmas parties. But this welcoming nature and generosity of spirit extended far beyond opening their doors for holiday festivities—H. Earl and Miriam are most remembered for their dedicated philanthropic e orts. Over the years the Hoover family has been major supporters of the Chicago Botanic Garden, Ravinia (Mrs. Hoover also served on its Woman’s Board), e Field Museum, CSO, e Lyric, Art Institute, Glencoe Public Library, Glencoe Historical Society, their church, and numerous other organizations, with particular emphasis in the arts.

“It feels like the closing of chapter of a bygone era,” says Rue. “But it’s a testament to this family’s love for and loyalty to Glencoe. rough so many eras, they chose to stay right here. It really shows how much they loved this village and this property.”

He continues, “It’s a home with heart. e minute you open the front door, you are brought in. You are enveloped in warmth. You can see it was well-loved.”

“It’s not just a house, it’s a legacy.”

To learn more about the property, visit hadleyrue.com or call 773852-4478.

Front gates

01 Hermes Luggage Tags and Key Holder, available at Hermes Chicago, 312-787-8175 02 Curiosity Box, available at Style Shack Highland Park, 847-579-4525 03 Ceramic glazed bookends, available at Style Shack Highland Park, 847-579-4525 04 Carlen Parfums Pompeii 79 Objet D’Art Candle, available at Carlen Parfums, carlenparfums.com 05 Eye of the Moth pillow, available at Style Shack Highland Park, 847-579-4525 06 Mina Two-Piece L-Shaped Sectional, available at Anthropologie Old Orchard, 847673-0721 07 Leopard canister, available at Style Shack Highland Park, 847-579-4525 08 Custom co ee table book, available at Style Shack Highland Park, 847-579-4525

09 Firewood Tote, available at CB2 Chicago, 312-787-8329 10 Rhys Bench, available at Anthropologie Old Orchard, 847-673-0721 11 Poltrona Frau Pura Bowl, available at Poltrona Frau, poltronafrau.com 12 Custom co ee table book, available at Style Shack Highland Park, 847-579-4525 13 Floris Cinnamon & Tangerine Collector’s Edition Large Candle, available at Floris London, orislondon.com 14 Gray Malin Puzzle, available at Gray Malin, graymalin.com 15 Allswell Boho Linen Striped Duvet Cover, available at Allswell, allswellhome.com 16 Bar tray and curiosity box, available at Style Shack Highland Park, 847-579-4525 17 Custom co ee table book, available at Style Shack Highland Park, 847-579-4525 18 Handcarved Delhi Side Table, available at Anthropologie Old Orchard, 847-673-0721

PIED-À-TERRE

North Shore interior designer Kim Flashner helps a Winnetka couple transform a downtown condo into the ultimate urban retreat.

WORDS BY SHERRY THOMAS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY FRANK ISHMAN HAIR, MAKEUP, AND STYLING BY CONSTANTINE JAMES

When a Winnetka couple rst relocated to the area from southern California, they had a familiar decision to make—live in downtown Chicago and enjoy the splendors of the city, or live on the North Shore for the amazing schools and family life.

e choice was obvious. But when their children went o to college, the couple knew it was time to make a change and nd a luxury pied-à-terre in the heart of downtown Chicago. “We reached a point in our lives where we could split our time between Winnetka and downtown without worrying about the kids,” says the wife, explaining how she found the condo in the Bloomingdale’s building and then found Winnetka-based Kim Flashner

Interior Design Group LLC to transform it into the property of their dreams. “Working with Kim was such a pleasure because she’s very good about keeping things moving, which is important because whenever you’re doing a project like this where you’re ordering custom furniture, it takes time.”

Knowing the couple’s deadline of having the apartment ready to entertain friends and enjoy winter in the city, Flashner jumped in and got started right away. “She saw an article about my last project in Sheridan Road and we had a mutual friend so I started

Interior Designer Kim Flashner in front of a piece of art by Spanish contemporary artist Juan Genovés. That piece and the one shown on the top right are part of the collection that was selected for the Winnetka couple with help from art consultant Lauren Rosen.

working with her immediately. “ e clients had given me an overall idea of what they wanted and I allocated the funds to create a balanced look of city sophistication.” To get that urban vibe, she brought in art consultant Lauren Rosen to build a collection of original artwork. Flashner also worked with Bennett Byk on custom window treatments and Oscar Isberian Rugs for some customized oor coverings with modern, geometric designs.

“Her place in Winnetka is completely di erent,” Flashner explains. Coming from California, the North Shore home re ects their prior Spanish-style design in uences. But for the downtown place, they wanted something sleek and glamourous—with the feel of a luxury hotel suite. “ at’s what they wanted and that’s what I gave them.”

at luxury hotel vibe doesn’t stop there. e wife says one of the unexpected bonuses of living in the Bloomingdale’s building is being able to order room service from the Four Seasons Hotel, which is just upstairs. “We love it,” she adds. “We’ve had out of town guests staying there with us almost every weekend since we nished the project. e building has so much to o er. We feel very lucky that we found this place, and that we found Kim.” roughout the ten-month process, Flashner worked hand in hand with her client to make sure they got exactly what they wanted.

“For me, the color scheme was new. I’ve never done anything in purple before, which I love,” says

Flashner, who took the wife to e Merchandise Mart in Chicago several times to tour showrooms and art galleries. “We did a lot of Romo fabrics and created custom furniture pieces with Holly Hunt, Bright, and Bradley. A lot of the artwork came from Richard Norton Gallery at the Mart.”

But one of the signature art pieces by Spanish contemporary artist Juan Genovés required a eld trip to New York. “His work is in a lot of museums all over the world but he was having a big show in New York,” Flashner explains. “It kind of makes the room and gives it that overall city feel.”

e wife says she and her husband could not be more pleased with the overall result. “ e color scheme started with a piece of art that I saw in the window at Anne Loucks Gallery in Glencoe. I took a picture of it and sent it to Kim and said ‘this is what I’m envisioning the colors to be.’”

Color was certainly a key part of the process but Flashner says she often starts a room design with fabric. A Romo gray (with oral pattern) fabric set the tone for the master bedroom, in uencing everything from the art to the paint color to the rug.

How in uential were the city views? Less than you might think.

“I have done a lot of city places but I don’t think of the views when I do the interiors because the city is forever changing,” she says. “While I focus more on interiors, this building does have stunning oor to ceiling windows, which add their own layer of color and energy throughout the year.”

Kim Flashner Interior Design Group LLC is located at 874 Green Bay Road in Winnetka. For more information, call 847-208-5411 or visit kim ashnerinteriorsgroup.com.

A custom dining room chandelier (shown left) introduces geometric elements that reflect the sophisticated urban landscape. Purple custom chairs anchor a window in the master bedroom, creating a vignette perfect for reading on winter afternoons.

FESTIVELY FLORAL

Florist and event planner Arturo Mar of Lord & Mar brings sparkle to holiday homes.

WORDS BY MONICA KASS ROGERS PHOTOGRAPHY AND INTERIOR DESIGN BY S.C. MURPHY L.L.C.

One by one they parade up the path, like an army of elves bearing gifts. One carries wreaths, another garlands, two more wobble under great swaths of ribbon, baubles, and bows. Behind them come more helpers with crates and crates of owers: ere is delicate lisianthus, pale pink rice ower, creamy white roses, and ranunculus. And here comes white hydrangea, amaryllis, tulips, and orchids, plus fragrant eucalyptus, and magnolia leaves.

Quickly, quietly the workers scurry about, climbing ladders, spreading tree skirts, hanging ornaments, and curling ribbons, all under guidance by the holiday-decor maestro himself: Arturo Mar, owner of longtime Lake Forest oral studio, Lord & Mar, Ltd.

“We are just about there!” Mar beams, speeding about, never in just one place for more than a minute, but somehow in all of them at once.

Room by room a transformation occurs, until the entire space—

HOLIDAY DECOR

from entry hall, to living room, to dining room, kitchen, den, and study, glitters with holiday light, scent and spangle.

“Oh, I just love my job!” Mar enthuses, as the homeowners take it all in.

at much is readily apparent. What’s lesser known is that this former McAllen-Texas boy, who has owned and operated his Lord & Mar oral and event orchestration business for more than 20 years, built that business into a thriving, relied-upon venture solely by word-of-mouth.

“We’ve never advertised or had a website,” says Mar. “I just grew the business by caring for each client’s needs one by one, always doing my best to not only give them what they needed but to exceed expectations.”

Each family Mar worked for came to rely on his artistic talents not just for ower arranging, but for his ability to accessorize an entire home in a cohesive, but non-redundant fashion, attentive to client tastes and preferences.

“You develop relationships with your clients over the years,” says Mar, “as you work with them through the timeline of celebrations, baptisms, proms, engagement parties, weddings, and all of the seasonal events in between. I get to know their homes, their likes and dislikes. And in turn, they respect me as an artist and look to me for insights on new trends in oral arranging, and in colors and accessories.”

is year for example, “Muted tones are very popular,” says Mar, “soft shades of blue and aqua, light browns, creams, and grays.”

Mar gestures to velvet ocked reindeer, fawn-colored fur trees, and robins-egg blue baubles.

When decorating a home for the holidays, Mar rst meets with clients to view their home and learn about their preferences in color. “How they live, what they like, traditional, avant-garde, etc.”

Once the scope of a project has been determined, Mar will work with colors in the various rooms (hues in paint, rugs, wall treatments) to create a plan for everything from the main living room tree, to decorated railings, replace mantles, family rooms, and kitchens.

While some clients still ask for fresh greenery for the holidays (garlands, wreaths, and trees) most have now moved to “permanent botanical” arrangements (the new term for silk or otherwise arti cial plants).

“People want to invest in something that will last through the season, and, that can be repurposed the next season with a refreshed color scheme, ornaments, and ribbon,” says Mar.

“I feel very blessed and thankful to have a talent that my clients rely on in order to create a joyful and festive setting for their gatherings with family and friends,” he concludes. “Nothing makes me happier.”

Lord & Mar is located at 836 North Western Avenue in Lake Forest, 847-295-5456. For more information about the interior design, visit scmurphyllc.com.

RISING STARS

Highland Park native and awardwinning actress Rachel Brosnahan sits down with Sheridan Road magazine and Carole Dibo, founder of Wilmettebased Actors Training Center, where e Marvelous Mrs. Maisel earned her acting stripes.

WORDS

BY ELAINE DOREMUS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY FRANK ISHMAN

What do Rachel Brosnahan ( e Marvelous Mrs. Maisel), Katie Chang ( e Bling Ring), and Raii and Whitney (America’s Got Talent) have in common? ey all grew up on the North Shore or near Chicago, took acting classes at the Actor’s Training Center in Wilmette, and call ATC founder Carole Dibo a teacher, mentor, manager, and friend.

at’s where this story begins—with Dibo, a former actress, who founded ATC in 2007 with an unwavering commitment to o er aspiring actors the tools they need to hone their craft and survive in the industry.

“I wanted to open up an acting school for young actors to train to work and empower them to be great actors, be true to themselves, and understand the business,” says Dibo.

Rachel Brosnahan and Carole Dibo

One of Dibo’s protégés, and huge success story is Rachel Brosnahan—the 27-year-old Highland Park native and star of the critically acclaimed, hugely popular Amazon series e Marvelous Mrs. Maisel. Earlier this year, Brosnahan won both a Golden Globe and a Primetime Emmy Award for her role as Midge Maisel, the irreverent and cheeky aspiring stand up comedienne, circa 1950s New York City. Among her other roles and credits, Brosnahan also won a Primetime Emmy Award nomination for her work on Net ix series House of Cards and is currently lming Ironbark (a Cold War spy thriller) with Benedict Cumberbatch in London.

Despite her busy schedule and meteoric rise to fame, Brosnahan is so committed to her roots at ATC and her mentor and friend Dibo that she came into town in October to headline ATC’s fundraiser at Highland Park Community House.

Brosnahan took her rst acting class at age 16 with Dibo at ATC, and the two established a lasting bond— rst as mentor-student, then as manager-actress, and now as colleagues and lifelong friends. We sat down with Dibo and Brosnahan to learn about their special relationship, and what makes ATC stand out above the rest.

What was it like growing up in Highland Park?

Brosnahan: I love that Highland Park is a community that is focused on and encourages the arts. e community encouraged me and this enabled me to believe at a very young age that I could pursue a career in the arts. Also, Chicago is such a rich arts city.

Was it acting classes at ATC where you decided you wanted to be an actor?

Brosnahan: Deep down I always knew it was something I wanted to do, but I wasn’t sure it was something I could do. You have to know from the bottom of your heart that there is nothing else that will make you happy. Carole had no ego and she was very straightforward with me about what she knew and didn’t know. She coached me for my college auditions, became my manager, and introduced me to my rst agents. ATC’s program is equally focused on developing young artists and helping them to understand the needs of the business, which is an important thing to be able to teach young actors.

Tell us about meeting at ATC and your relationship.

Dibo: Rachel came into my life just as I was leaving the city and opening ATC. She’s so grounded and has this perspective; she’s resourceful, ercely intelligent, and motivated, and she’s always been an old soul. We took a risk on each other and grew up together. Even then, she could juggle ten balls in the air. You could throw almost anything at her, and we rarely saw her crack. I started my career quite late, and this has been a tremendous growth period for me. We have been through a lot together.

Brosnahan: I knew that Carole was immediately someone I could trust, and she’s been like another parent to me. Carole and ATC provided me with a support system that helped me nd my voice, taught me the power of saying no, and how to hold onto my own artistic integrity and advocate for myself. She helped shape me into a much more grounded and self-empowered adult and that’s something I can hold onto even in moments of chaos or when I’m feeling uncertain. She has supported and encouraged me through so many phases of my life and career. We are kindred spirits, and it’s really nice to be home.

What sets ATC apart from other acting schools?

Dibo: I started ATC when I was an actor raising young kids. People would ask me how they could get their kids into the

business. And, I had heard someone, maybe Oprah, say that you should nd what you love to do and then nd a niche within it that no one else is doing. It seemed to me that no one was o ering industry-grade training. One of my goals has always been to teach actors how to work both sides of their brains—the creative side and the business side. With ATC, students get the coaching that they don’t get elsewhere. We tape audition videos in our studio here, Skype with students to prepare them for auditions, work with our actors and the big studios to teach them what to ask for and how to negotiate. We also work with agents in New York and Los Angeles and put forward our students. And now, we have a hip new agship studio in Wilmette and a board of directors that is equally focused and committed to arts education and to helping us ful ll our philosophy: Train to Work and Learn for Life.

Tell us about landing and playing the role of Midge Maisel.

Brosnahan: is role is a dream that I didn’t know I had. I never thought in 12,000 years that I’d be doing comedy let alone doing standup on television. It’s fantastic and it’s the hardest thing I’ve ever done. I feel like we are shooting a play a day with no rehearsals. It feels like choreography that won’t work if even one element is out of place. We are in constant movement, in and out of rooms, walking backwards. It’s like a dance.

Dibo (laughs): When Rachel got the audition, I told her, ‘You’re not really funny. You’re not going to get this.’

Sheridan Road and e Marvelous Mrs. Maisel fans are really glad she did. e second season airs this month.

For more information about Actors Training Center, visit actorstrainingcenter.org.

CINESPACE

WORDS BY ALLISON DUNCAN / PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBIN SUBAR

Since the Illinois Film Tax Credit program was initiated, the Illinois lm industry has experienced a boom in production, contributing over $1 billion in direct production spending and thousands of job hires to the Illinois economy.

e goal of the Tax Credit Act is to grow, sustain and provide economic and job opportunities for local vendors, crew, and lmmakers, and part of the reason the program has been so successful is because of Alexander Pissios.

Pissios is the CEO and co-founder of Cinespace Film Studios in Chicago, the largest independent movie studio outside of Hollywood, specializing in the development, management, and operation of studio space and support facilities for the lm, television,

and digital media production industry. e 70-acre lm campus, located on the site formerly occupied by the Ryerson Steel plant in Chicago’s Lawndale neighborhood, o ers 31 soundstages, production o ces and more than a dozen on-lot businesses, including lighting, camera, animation, casting, and post-production companies.

Perhaps that’s why Cinespace has been able to work with producer Dick Wolf’s Chicago Med, Chicago Fire, and Chicago PD along with FOX’s Empire, Showtime’s Shameless, and productions from Net ix, Amazon, and Hulu. It’s also been home to several feature lms, like Divergent and Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice

It also explains how Cinespace has helped create 15,000 lm-related jobs since it opened and how it has contributed bil-

ALEXANDER PISSIOS brings Hollywood to the Midwest.

lions of dollars in revenue to the local economy.

“Chicago has the best labor in the country, and it’s the most beautiful city in the world,” explains Pissios of how he’s gained the con dence of producers to move their projects to the city. “We also have four seasons for variety, great food and hotels and, of course, the best soundstages in the world.” But, Pissios remembers Wolf with a better explanation when he said the best part of his hit television shows is Chicago, as Chicago is really the main character.

Funnily enough, though, Pissios’ late uncle Nick Mirkopoulos founded Cinespace in Toronto rst, in 2007. en, at a cousin’s wedding, Pissios shared a few life updates with Mirkopoulos— mainly that, Pissios and his wife Patricia, along with their four children, were facing bankruptcy and eviction from their family home because of the real estate collapse. Mirkopoulos would eventually help Pissios get back on his feet, and the two would later go on to launch a Cinespace outpost in the Windy City.

“My uncle taught me to work hard every day, to always try to make a di erence in someone’s life, and to take the high road,” says Pissios of Mirkopoulos, who passed away in 2013. ose are lessons that Pissios learned growing up on the North Shore, too.

e son of Greek immigrants, Pissios’ father was a special education teacher for Chicago Public Schools, and his mother always gave back to the community.

Now, Pissios does the same. In 2015, Cinespace launched Stage 18, a lmmaker incubator to provide workspace, programming, and event space to help develop the local lmmaking community with the goal of keeping talent local. Cinespace also established the CineCares Foundation, providing Chicago residents with education and job training in TV and lm, and it o ers DePaul

University space for classes that teach lmmaking to the next generation of artists. is May, Pissios was honored by the Anixter Center for his charitable contributions to the community during the seventh annual Bene t for Ability held at one of the studio’s soundstages.

But it hasn’t always been smooth sailing. At points throughout his career, Pissios has faced both nancial and legal troubles, with allegations of bankruptcy fraud a few years ago. “Life is full of ups and downs,” says Pissios. “I know it’s a cliché, but what’s important is how you get up after you’re punched in the gut. I am proud of the ups and downs in my life because they’ve molded me into the man I am today.”

at man is a family man, who loves to spend weekends watching his kids play sports, try di erent restaurants in the city, visit museums, and walk the lakefront. His family also, Pissios smiles, loves the Marvel lm franchise. Pissios, however, won’t disclose if he has a favorite Cinespace project. “ at’s like picking a favorite child,” he says. “I love them all. Seeing them all grow each and every year is great.”

In terms of what’s next for Cinespace, Pissios is focused on creating a backlot, a closed campus like the studios in Los Angeles, that will have street scenes featuring New York, London, and Main Street U.S.A. He’s also excited about shows Amazon and Net ix are bringing to Cinespace in 2019.

“My goal is to keep on growing the lm industry in Illinois and to create more jobs, revenue and goodwill for the people of this great state,” Pissios concludes.

To learn more about Cinespace, visit chicago lmstudios.com.

Come Home to Highland Park

Highland Park is the progressive, vibrant heart of Chicago’s North Shore. A city where the quality of life is second to none, known for its idyllic beauty, distinguished character, and dynamic arts and culture. Stroll the walkable and lively downtown offering unique shops and exceptional restaurants. Enjoy scenic parks, award-winning Rosewood beach and world-class entertainment at the renowned Ravinia Festival. With a desirable combination of top-rated schools, low crime, and highly educated residents, Highland Park has all the features that families look for when selecting a community to raise their children. These are just some of the reasons to call Highland Park home.

Cultivating CURIOSITY

THE IRICKS ARE A FAMILY WITH LOCAL ROOTS AND A GLOBAL, ADVENTUROUS MINDSET.

WORDS AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY MONICA KASS ROGERS STYLING, HAIR, AND MAKEUP BY CONSTANTINE JAMES WARDROBE PROVIDED BY NEIMAN MARCUS NORTHBROOK

Fionna Irick is ve years old with huge amber eyes and a pu y brown ponytail. Her blond, blue-eyed brother Aiden, a three-year-old mini version of the character Dash from e Incredibles, has stopped running in circles to announce that his mom Myah—in a gilt brocade gown that sets o her deep brown eyes and luxurious black hair is, “a princess.”

is amuses tall, athletically-built Jaime, pater familias for this brood, who is just now bouncing six-month-old Quinn on his knee.

So di erent in looks, so similar in powerhouse adventurousness, the Irick family has made Winnetka its home base for two-years now. It’s the launch pad for Myah’s professional role as Executive Director of J. P. Morgan’s Private Bank, for Jaime’s position as the president of one of America’s largest consumer goods companies

and, for the family’s exploration of the wide blue yonder.

“Whether we’re riding the train downtown, visiting a farmer’s market in Evanston or taking the kids with me on a business trip, we are very intentional about constantly opening their world to new people, places and experiences,” says Myah.

So important for growing and expanding any child’s intelligence and cultivating curiosity and openness, this intentionality around life experience is also crucial in the con dent structuring of mixed-race children’s identity development, something Myah—whose mother is Korean, Dutch, Irish, French, Scottish, and English, and whose father is Black and Cherokee, and Jaime, whose father is Black and mother is White, know a lot about.

After years of travel with the Navy, that included stints in many parts of the United States, Myah’s parents put roots down in Hawaii because its cultural and ethnic diversity made it open and welcoming to mixed-race families.

Fionna and Jaime Irick

“In Hawaii, so many families are multiracial, it’s just the norm,” says Myah.

So when Myah headed to Oregon for studies at Lewis & Clark College, living in a place where it rained eight months out of the year was an adjustment. But the bewildering atmosphere of disconnectedness around cultural and ethnic diversity she found on the mainland was more unexpected.

“It was a bit of a shock,” she says. “I quickly discovered that part of my calling in life was to be a bridge between cultures. To help people connect the dots and eliminate the divide.” at calling has informed Myah’s life ever since. It led her to found a multicultural residence hall at Lewis & Clark, to become president of the school’s black student union and Hawaii Club, and to launch and gain funding for a research project as part of her psychology degree that took her to six college campuses to interview multiracial students about their identity. It was the reason she competed for and won the Miss Oregon pageant in 2003, an adventure she set upon so that she could pay for an M.A. at Columbia University in New York. e experience also provided her with an audience to talk about diversity, race and multi-cultural education.

It has informed decisions she makes to hire diverse candidates and promote inclusiveness at work. It has impacted her volunteer and philanthropic work with the Chicago Foundation for Women, United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF), and Social Venture Partners (SVP). It prompted her to establish endowments for the scholarships she and Jaime provide to give underrepresented populations access to higher education. And perhaps most importantly, it shapes the culture for the family she and her husband are now raising to be globally conscious, empathetic, and respectful individuals without prejudice or fear.

“Our children have had passports since they were very young.

Jaime and I love the vistas that traveling opens to us, and we want our children to have the same experience,” says Myah who has brought her kids along on business trips in the U.S. and plans to broaden that to more global travel as the children mature—perhaps even to Madrid, where she did a joint MBA program between Instituto de Empresa and Brown University.

But cultivating an open mindset doesn’t have to mean getting on a plane.

“We are always looking for family experiences that stretch us,” says Myah. “Cultural institutions, college campuses, even public transportation are key.”

At home, establishing con dence in her children around their diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds can be as simple as spending a lot of time with extended family.

“My four siblings all married spouses with di erent cultural backgrounds,” Myah adds.

e Iricks also explore the histories and traditions of the family’s heritage through books, music, and food.

“I’d say at least a third of the time, the foods we eat at home are some version of Asian fusion or Southern fare,” she laughs.

Externally, navigating questions from friends and community members comes down to understanding that, “People just know what they have been exposed to. It’s important to nd and celebrate our di erences, as well as our similarities,” she says.

“Little one, whoever you are, wherever you are, there are little ones just like you all over the world,” Myah reads, turning the pages in one of her children’s favorite books, Whoever You Are, by Mem Fox.

“We are so fortunate to raise our children amongst family and friends with the same values we believe in: respect, empathy, and a strong work ethic,” Myah concludes. “Providing our children with that foundation will serve them well throughout their lives.”

Aiden Irick

BY

LIVING & GIVING

PEOPLE, PHILANTHROPY, AND EVENTS

The House In The Wood Gala drew a crowd of 250 to Venue SIX10 Chicago for Northwestern Settlement’s outdoor education program. PAGE 116

DANCE

FOR

LIFE GALA, PAGE 104

More than $275,000 was raised for e Dancers’ Fund and the AIDS Foundation of Chicago at the 27th Annual Dance for Life Gala.

VIVA VERSACE, PAGE 106

On the heels of Sheridan Road’s September fashion issue, Leslie Hindman Auctioneers hosted an exclusive look at items from fashion icon Gianni Versace before they went to auction.

ROCKY WIRTZ AT MAZE HOME, PAGE 118

Maze Home hosted a book signing with Chicago Blackhawks owner and Winnetka resident Rocky Wirtz for his new novel e Break Away.

PHOTOGRAPHY

ROBIN SUBAR

Niki Campbell, Laura Ahlering

& LIVING GIVING

IN SEARCH OF GROUND OPENING RECEPTION

reneschuler.com

Lake Forest based artist René Romero Schuler hosted an opening reception for her newest exhibit, In Search of Ground, at Zolla Lieberman Gallery in Chicago. The exhibit featured pieces created by Schuler on an emotional journey that reflect on life’s many challenges while attempting to stay grounded.

SHERIDAN ROAD 102

Holly Dicken, Rob & Gail Mancuso, Pat DeChaut

Derrick Williams

Sharon & Bill Lear

René & Rick Schuler

Dr. Lisa Walt, Eamon Cummins

Ed & Jill Rossini

& LIVING GIVING

GLENKIRK’S 21ST ANNUAL BENEFIT BASH

glenkirk.org

Friends and supporters of Glenkirk raised more than $250,000 at the organization’s annual benefit in mid-September. With 220 in attendance, guests enjoyed a cocktail hour featuring artist Lindsay Knoblauch, followed by dinner and fundraising.

27TH ANNUAL DANCE FOR LIFE GALA

chicagodancersunited.org

Dance for Life, which mobilizes Chicago’s dance community by raising funds through dance, welcomed more than 2,700 guests at the 27th annual Dance for Life Chicago performance. Nearly 500 guests attended a pre-performance gala reception at the Hilton Chicago. More than $275,000 was raised during the evening to support The Dancers’ Fund, which provides assistance to members of the dance community coping with critical health issues, and the AIDS Foundation of Chicago.

Laura & Fred Mujica Eileen Bennin

Kim Berenberg, Jan Frystak, Lindsay Knoblauch

Harriet & Stan Rosenthal

Dr. Je rey & Suzie Draluck

Mark Ferguson Gomez, Tom Ferguson Gomez

Ken Sliwa, Veronica Guadalupe

Glenn Edgerton, Julie Burman Kaplan, Lou Conte

Timothy Whaley & Associates Photographic Artists

Wedding Designed By Régine Danielle Events

& LIVING GIVING

lesliehindman.com

On the heels of Sheridan Road’s September fashion issue, Leslie Hindman Auctioneers hosted an exclusive look at items from fashion icon Gianni Versace before they went to auction. The exhibit featured more than 350 pieces of clothing and accessories for the designer’s 1990s collection, which were auctioned o on September 21.

Mary Shearson, Dawn Butler

Clay Maxfield, Miranda Luce

Cindy Nicolaides, Anne Trout

Rachel Cannon, Wendy Franzen, Dustin O’Regan

Frank Ishman, Madelyne Harry, Alena Brook, Constantine James

Evan Marshall, Ammo Dauksa, Allan Weinberger, Kaylie Plauche

Jillian Gri th, Alena Brook

& LIVING GIVING

2018 COOKS’ TOUR

nscookstour.org

More than 600 supporters toured five beautiful properties on the North Shore, raising more than $100,000 during the 2018 Cooks’ Tour. Funds raised will be used for community outreach programs supported by Rush University Medical Center including the expansion of the Rush Education and Career Hub (REACH). The REACH program is committed to advancing educational attainment, developing a pipeline of STEM talent, and improving the overall health and well-being of the underserved West Side communities surrounding the Medical Center campus.

SHERIDAN ROAD 108

Sarah Levi, Ellen Heinbach

Beth Robinson, Heather Martin

Alyson Aron, Julie Rocap

UNICEF USA’s Midwest Regional o ce hosted its eighth annual luncheon, honoring Dr. Colleen Cicchetti, executive director of the Center for Childhood Resilience at Lurie Children’s Hospital, and Phyllis Glink, executive director of the Irving Harris Foundation, for their contributions locally and internationally to the improvement of children’s lives. This year’s luncheon, which hosted more than 435 guests, focused on early childhood development under the theme #EatPlayLove. Sherrie Rollins Westin, president of Global Impact and Philanthropy for Sesame Workshop delivered an inspiring keynote address.

Elizabeth McCostlin, Jennifer Zaugh, Amy Brown, Cecilia Pikul

Phyllis Glink, Sherrie Rollins Westin, Dr. Colleen Cicchetti Ashish Prasad

& LIVING GIVING

JOFFREY BALLET CHICAGO’S ANNA KARENINA LUNCHEON

jo rey.org

and

of the

Women’s Board hosted a luncheon celebrating the upcoming world premiere of Yuri

Anna

debuting in February 2019. More than 350 guests gathered for a reception and mingling, while perusing select costumes from the newest Jo rey ballet. After the reception, guests enjoyed lunch and an intimate panel conversation between the Jo rey’s artistic team and company artists.

Melissa Trandel

Chrissie Walker

Jo rey Ballet’s

Possokhov’s

Karenina

Jerri Ho mann, Ashley Wheater

Shelley Farley, Marty Higgins, Cidney Golman, Jerri Ho mann, Shauna Montgomery, Maria Smithburg

Melissa Trandel, Christina Walker, Noren Ungaretti

Polina Herman, Jennifer Zandpour, Annie Doll

& LIVING GIVING

ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO WOMAN’S BOARD LUNCHEON

The Art Institute Woman’s Board hosted an unforgettable day during the board’s second annual lecture and luncheon with artist Je Koons. The first part of the program included a meet & greet reception with Koons, followed by his personal and insightful lecture and Q & A with President and Eloise W. Martin Director of the Art Institute of Chicago James Rondeau. The day ended with a Koons-inspired luncheon in beautiful Gri n Court.

Connie Coolidge, Lisa Roberts, Susan Canmann

Betsy Bergman Rosenfield, Je Koons, Paula Crown

Pam McCambridge, Nancy Crown Je Koons, Cathy Busch

John Krehbiel, Kay Krehbiel, Stephanie Sick

Pam Hutul Ross, Pam Phillips Weston

& LIVING GIVING

LELA ROSE AT NEIMAN MARCUS

lelarose.com; neimanmarcus.com; winnetkaboard.com

North Shore fashionistas mixed and mingled over lunch with fascinating fashion designer Lela Rose at Neiman Marcus Northbrook Court in early October. After lunch, Sheridan Road’s Editor-in-Chief Dustin O’Regan talked upcoming fashion trends with the designer during a Q & A while models walked the runway in Rose’s famous designs. The event was hosted by Neiman Marcus and The Winnetka Board of Northwestern Settlement in anticipation of the group’s upcoming February 8 fundraiser, “Spotlight on the Settlement, Big Laughs for Bright Futures.”

Dustin O’Regan, Lela Rose with models

Lela Rose

Linda Piepho, Diane Winho er, Lela Rose, Patty Gahlon

Jeannie Balsam, Patty Mosele, Molly Randle

& LIVING GIVING

HOUSE IN THE WOOD GALA

northshoreboard.org

Inspired to give the joy of camp to 1,000 children, the House In The Wood Gala drew a crowd of 250 to Venue SIX10 Chicago on Oct. 13, raising $400,000 for Northwestern Settlement’s outdoor education program. Greeted by beaming campers, guests celebrated the achievements of Valerie Hall, were entertained by Artbeat Live, and danced to the rhythms of The North 41. The North Shore Board of Northwestern Settlement Gala co-chairs were Sarah Boulos, Jessica Fleming, and Diana Peterson.

SHERIDAN ROAD 116

Ommid & Amber Farashahi, Michele & Steve Giczewski

Jessica Fleming, Sarah Boulos, Diana Peterson, Alice Scha

Beth Brauen, Kim Half, Jennifer Stricklin, Julie Rocap

Jessica Fay, Nancy Ledinsky

Jim & Amy O’Donnell

Brad & Carrie Hughes

& LIVING GIVING

CHICAGO FESTIVAL OF ISRAELI CINEMA OPENING NIGHT

israelifilmchi.org

The Chicago Festival of Israeli Cinema kicked o its thirteenth annual festival of feature films, documentaries, shorts, and TV series with an opening night reception. The festival features films that document Israel’s fascinating, diverse everyday culture. This year’s opening night featured a special Q & A with Ran Tal, director of featured film The Museum, James Snyder, director of the Israel Museum 1997 to 2016, and Ido Bruno, current director of the Israel Museum, and a screening of Tal’s The Museum

Eli Ran, Mika Mashiach

Rachel Lertzman, Cindy Stern

Ran Tal, James Snyder, Ido Bruno, Cindy Stern

Avia Hay, Yeara Schwartz, Dekel Vered, Katya Lipovetsky

Helene & Dr. Bert Herbstman

Strategic support, creative guidance, effective leadership: these are the qualities we offer our clients as they work through their challenges.

& LIVING GIVING

BOOK SIGNING WITH ROCKY WIRTZ AT MAZE HOME

mazehome.com

Cindy Galvin’s Maze Home hosted a book signing with Chicago Blackhawks owner and Winnetka resident Rocky Wirtz for his new novel The Break Away. The book reveals the untold story of the Wirtz Family and how their empire came together—fell apart—and came back together again with going to the Blackhawks Charities. Maze Home regularly holds a myriad of special events in its store.

Mike & Kelly Golden with Grace, George, and Caroline

Jenny Sheehan, Marisa Gingeskie

Peyton Merrill, Maggie Meiners

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& LIVING GIVING

READING FOR LIFE

Reading for Life brings lovers of literature into the depths of great fiction that often go unexplored. Facilitated by Michael Verde and hosted by Roger and Sandra Deromedi, these literary salons o er an irresistible mixture of entertainment, stimulating discussions, and good wine. Thornton Wilder’s The Bridge of San Luis Rey was the topic of discussion at the fall salon.

Liam Connell, Laura Kramer, Jeanna Park

Lindy & Paul Anderson, Sandra Deromedi

Roger & Sandra Deromedi, Michael Verde, Dustin O’Regan

Kathleen Murphy, Dr. Thomas & Suzanne O’Regan

Claudia Batillo, Diana Deromedi, Anna-Lena Schmidt

*Awarded by @properties. Includes all @properties brokers at all locations, 2017.

LASTING LEGACY

WORDS BY TRICIA DESPRES PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBIN SUBAR

In a world that seems to get more complex with each and every day, the future can seem somewhat uncertain and sometimes just plain scary. Yet, Wells Fargo Senior Vice President and Senior Private Banker/Market Leader Lisa Bertagna is here to remind her high net worth clients one thing.

Everything is going to be okay.

ere are many complexities within the nancial planning and wealth management eld these days,” says Bertagna. “But that’s why we are here: to help our clients to understand those complexities and, in turn, to reach all of the goals they have dreamed of.”

“

Of course, determining those goals in this ever-changing world can be harder than it looks. How do you want to live out the rest of your life? What do you want to leave to your children and grandchildren?

“Our approach is really to ask more questions than to provide solutions,” says Bertagna. “Our true role is to lead our clients through some deep conversations with their families about their nancial goals and values and how they want to ensure that those goals and values are passed down to the next generation.”

Wells Fargo has long helped their clients realize their nancial dreams. More than ten years ago, a small team of six nancial professionals started the Midwest o ce of Wells Fargo Wealth Management in Chicago. e o ce now has more than 140 team members and has been ranked No. 1 out of 42 markets nationwide for Wells Fargo for many years.

Responding to the needs of their customers, Wells Fargo Private Bank then opened a new o ce in Northbrook and will soon open up an additional location in the Western Suburbs.

“Our growth has been fast, but it’s been driven by the needs of our high net worth Chicago families,” says Bertagna, who has worked with Wells Fargo for more than six years. “ ey want to leave a legacy, and we can help them with that.”

Often, that means having some eye-opening conversations.

“Leaving a legacy is the joy that comes out of a life’s worth of work,” says Bertagna, who has worked in the banking industry for over 25 years. “Knowing that you are able to leave a legacy for future generations is a very powerful moment for my clients. It’s like they have this aha moment in their eyes when they realize that, together, we can help a family achieve that legacy. It’s really a phenomenal moment that I feel lucky to experience with them.”

Still, Bertagna admits that she realizes that any sort of nancial planning can often be a confusing process. Yet, Wells Fargo strives to make things easier.

“We are very agnostic in the way that we have a long list of products and services all in house,” says Bertagna. “Another thing that our clients appreciate is having a series of benchmarks that we look at from month to month that can show on our customers that they are on the right track. For most people, that provides so much comfort.”

It also helps to act as much as a friend as a nancial advisor.

“In order to have some of these somewhat tough conversations, there needs to be a comfort level in place,” she says. “Once the conversation ows freely, we can go from need to need and watch how the simple act of unlocking one door is going to open another door to another goal.”

Lisa Bertagna, Senior Vice President and Senior Private Banker/ Market Leader for Wells Fargo Private Bank is located at 400 Skokie Boulevard, Suite 510 in Northbrook, 224-306-5111, wellsfargo.com.

e nancial advisors at Wells Fargo help clients navigate their nancial futures with comfort and peace of mind.

Lisa Bertagna

IT TAKES A VILLAGE

For more than forty-four years, Over the Rainbow (OTR) has helped to provide independent living solutions to countless numbers of individuals who are not only dealing with income issues, but also with physical disabilities. One of those individuals goes by the name of Chris.

“Chris has not only been able to live in an accessible barrier-free apartment independently, but has also improved the quality of his life through securing a job, participating in adaptive sports, traveling, writing and publishing numerous books of poetry, and holding his own art show,” explains OTR Executive Director Eric Hu man. “ rough his success at OTR, Chris has become an integral part of his community and is also empowered to advocate for others with disabilities to live independently, have improved access to services, and choose how they would like to spend their day.”

Of course, it cannot go understated what might have happened to Chris if OTR was not there to o er the helping hand he needed.

“One out of three OTR residents would be forced to live in a nursing home or state institution if they were unable to live with us,” says Hu man.

e story of OTR began all the way back in 1974, when a group of parents were looking for a housing solution for their physically disabled children as they got older. rough the years, OTR would open housing developments such as Belden Apartments in Lincoln Park and Hill Arboretum Apartments in Evanston.

Today, OTR has 11 barrier-free apartment communities across Northern Illinois with the 12th, 13th, and 14th buildings opening in the next year.

“Demand for our newest development was ve times the available number of apartments,” explains Hu man. “ e need for the type of housing and services OTR provides goes far beyond what we are able to accomplish due to funding, land availability, and community support. OTR believes every municipality with 10,000 or more could bene t from an OTR-style apartment community.”

Yet, OTR goes far beyond providing housing. Indeed, the group puts as much emphasis on their residents’ daily life within the building as they do outside of the building. OTR is known for its vast o ering of person-centered services and enrichment programming.

“ ese services include but are not limited to advocacy, health care management, budgeting, con ict resolution, and monthly programming classes such as, art, yoga, sign language, cooking and nutrition, and many more,” Hu man says. “OTR is able to give our residents the skills and resources they need to be active members of their community.”

In fact, residents of Evanston in particular have long known the contributions that OTR residents, such as Chris, o er to the community with each and every passing day.

“Many of our residents at the Hill Arboretum apartments in Evanston volunteer, have jobs within the community, attend city meetings, and have sat on City commissions,” says Hu man. “Plus, just being apart of OTR brings an incredible joy. It’s just such a great cause.”

WORDS BY TRICIA DESPRES PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBIN SUBAR

Over the Rainbow Association is located at 2040 Brown Avenue, Evanston. For more information, call 847-328-6633 or visit otrassn.org.

Over the Rainbow provides barrier-free housing for people with disabilities across northern Illinois.

Eric Hu man

PERFECT GEM

Bella Cosa Jewelers’

WORDS BY TRICIA DESPRES PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY BELLA COSA JEWELERS

After more than 60 years in business, Wilmette Jewelers closed its doors for business back in January. At the time, owner Gayle Inbinder expressed her hope that she could nd the right buyer for the property—someone who shared the family-based values that the long-time jewelry store had always been known for.

Soon after, she found that right buyer in Bella Cosa Jewelers. “Having a second store is a natural progression for us,” explains Joseph Molfese, who is the proud owner of Bella Cosa Jewelers in Wilmette alongside his wife Amy. “We had been looking on the North Shore for two years when Wilmette Jewelers announced that they would be retiring, and we felt as if it was meant to be. e building and the space was really the perfect t for us.”

Located at 1149 Wilmette Avenue, the new location of Bella Cosa Jewelers opened in mid-November and Molfese says he is eager to greet many new customers during the always-bustling holiday season.

“ e holidays are the time of year where shoppers are looking for that perfect gift, so I’m excited that many people will be coming in to see the new jewelry store in town,“ he says.

Of course, Bella Cosa Jewelers have long considered the North Shore as home to an important segment of their existing customer base, with many of them travelling to Bella Cosa’s Willowbrook location for their ne jewelry needs throughout the years.

“We have clients in the area and they were always so warm and friendly,” says Molfese, who opened Bella Cosa back in 2000 and moved to his current location in Willowbrook in 2008. “ is new location already feels like home because of that.”

Bella Cosa has long been known to carry a large selection of GIA graded loose diamonds, beautiful ne jewelry, and gemstone jewelry including prestigious lines such as Tacori, Simon G., Jack Kelege and Tag Heuer However, Wilmette’s Bella Cosa Jewelers will be a bit di erent from the Willowbrook store.

“ ere is a consistent look and feel of both of our stores,” says Molfese. “However, the Wilmette location has an open concept where it will be easier to walk around with a client to separate areas. To me, it’s just that much more inviting.”

It’s this inviting feeling that has always been part of the success of Bella Cosa, which is a family business.

“I love that my kids are able to see us grow this business,” says Molfese, who is a father of four. “Being a role model to my kids is very important, and I love that I can ignite a re in them with our entrepreneurial spirit.”

And yes, Bella Cosa not only values their customers, but the community in which they work.

“Wilmette residents are known to value their local businesses and in turn their local businesses support local community organizations,” he says. “Giving back is an important part of being a local business. We expect to be a permanent part of Wilmette. We made a signi cant investment in the building itself and did that because we are expecting to be here for a very long time.”

Bella Cosa Jewelers is located at 1149 Wilmette Avenue in Wilmette. For more information, visit mybella.com.

open-concept boutique in Wilmette opens just in time for the holidays.

Joseph and Amy Molfese

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THE LOVE OF JEWELRY

Evanston’s Eve J. Al llé Gallery & Studio continues tradition of custom pieces.

WORDS BY TRICIA DESPRES

There is an electricity that runs through Eve J. Al llé Gallery & Studio that can only be felt in the charming con nes of one of Evanston’s most beloved family owned businesses.

And during the holiday season, that electricity is like no other.

“Saturdays can get very busy around here at this time of the year,” chuckles owner and award-winning international artist Eve J. Al llé. “My granddaughter Becky, who is a sophomore at Evanston Township High School, is often here helping. She has been designing jewelry since she was just nine years old. And of course my daughter Diane is always here as the resident glass artist. It’s a lovely thing to be able to gather my family around me.”

Indeed, the love of family runs through this business like a heartbeat not only during the holidays, but all throughout the year. Joining in that heartbeat is a loyal customer base that has long-loved Al llé and her skilled team of craftsman since the very moment they rst opened their retail store in 1987.

“I never intended to have a retail gallery,” recalls Al llé, who also previously worked as a teacher and sculptor. “But back then, people didn’t work from home, and I loved creating jewelry so I opened for business. But it was frightening to say the least. I remember our rst day open for business and thought, I’m going to have to be here every day?”

e French-born jewelry designer laughs at the sheer thought. But make no mistake, Al llé continues to love each and every day spent in her gallery lled with rare and exotic pieces, from pearls to gemstones to high karat metals and diamonds.

She also continues to love creating timeless pieces. Her and her team of talented craftspeople actually reveal a new design series every six months for their discerning clientele, including the current series titled Sacred Geometries.

“I used to work in archeology, so I have always been keenly aware of how things begin and why we do the things we do,” explains Al llé. “I have long researched shapes and forms and numbers that have had special meaning not only here, but around the world. ere is nothing like the moment that a customer is touched by something they see.”

Of course, the magic of Eve J. Al llé Gallery & Studio truly takes ight when customers come in looking to create a unique piece from something they already love.

“I would say 60 percent of my customers come in to look at my collections, but then 40 percent is made up of those customers

that have something like their grandma’s diamond and they don’t know what to do with it,” she says. “ ey simply can’t let it remain in their drawer anymore. ey almost have an obligation to make something beautiful out of it.”

Al llé also loves working alongside her customers to discover a priceless piece.

“I encourage people to bring in things that they already possess,” “ ere is nothing I love more than sitting down in a comfortable chair with a glass of wine to go through a box of old treasures that we can often make beautiful jewelry from.”

And when it comes to nding the perfect gift, there is nothing like a piece of custom jewelry.

“I encourage my customer’s to make an appointment to come sit with me and discuss what they are looking for,” she says. “I want to know who the person is and what their life is like. And most of all, I want to be sure that we create something that the person will love forever.”

Eve J. Al llé Gallery & Studio is located at 623 Grove Street in Evanston. For more information, call 847-869-7920, or visit evejewelry.com.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBIN SUBAR

JOURNEY OF CARE

Hansa Medical Groupe is committed to a high-touch level of compassionate, patient-centered care in its treatment of senior patients.

WORDS BY TRICIA DESPRES

Longtime Glenview resident Claudia Baker was a wife, a mother and a cherished grandmother. She was an avid golfer and loved going to church, and yes, she could give anyone a run for their money playing bridge. In her free time, she served as a volunteer for organizations such as Meals on Wheels and the Boys and Girls Club in her second home of Naples, Florida.

“She was always vibrant and full of life,” remembers Baker’s daughter Jennifer Preston. “She was just always that kind of person.” But just three days before her 76th birthday, her life ended after a valiant battle against Corticobasal Degeneration and Progressive Supranuclear Palsy.

“It was a death sentence from the moment we got the diagnosis,” explains the Glenview resident. “ ere was no hope that she would be able to beat this.”

e nal three months of her life were spent juggling diagno-

ses and medications, hospice teams, and insurance jargon. But it wasn’t until Wilmette internist Dr. Chirag Patel walked into Baker’s room at a North Shore assisted living community that Preston and her family nally began to realize that the nal journey of her life could be one lled with dignity and respect.

“I remember calling (Dr. Patel) on a Sunday around noon and he was in my mom’s room by 6 pm meeting with her and helping her understand the disease,” recalls Preston. “He helped us understand and appreciate the role he could play in this journey.”

From that moment on, Dr. Patel became a crucial member of Baker’s care team, often providing as much emotional support as medical guidance.

“He was just the most compassionate and devoted person to my mom,” explains Preston. “He was so loving and so very interested in her story. It was as if he treated her like his own mom.”

It’s this philosophy of medicine that is seldom seen these days,

Dr. Chirag Patel with Jennifer Preston

especially as pre-existing conditions, intense regulations, and prescription costs make it that much more di cult. In fact, Dr. Patel says that the medical eld in which he signed up for is greatly di erent than what many of his peers are doing at this point.

“Sometimes I feel as if the global experience of healthcare by patients and providers is one of frustration,” explains Dr. Patel, who currently works as managing partner at Hansa Medical Groupe. “ ere are so many issues to handle in the medical eld, besides caring for the patient. ings like insurance variations, prior authorizations, and electronic medical records charting has bogged down part of the healthcare system. As far as I am concerned, the ideas of communication and empathy with patients has been lost by healthcare professionals due to the current turmoil of practicing medicine. Hence, the quality of care gets compromised, increasing my own and my peers’ frustration level.”

But for Dr. Patel, he is committed to changing the way he himself spends his days in medicine. With more than 20 years in practice, his sta now focuses much of their care within the senior communities in which his patients reside, leaving them with better control of his day-to-day practice. e practice specializes in geriat-

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rics, neuro cognitive diseases, geri-psych/behavioral medicine, and many of the other common health issues that seniors contend with.

“We control how many patients we see, which allows us to spend more time with them and have the ability to be much more sensitive to the family who is going through all of this right along with the patient,” he says. “We train our sta to focus, not only on providing great quality medical care, but also the delivery of that care.”

“He wasn’t looking to make rash decisions,” adds Preston. “He was the kind of doctor you could text from morning till night. He wanted to stay intimately involved in everything that had to do with the wellbeing of my mom. He took an interest and care in everything.”

As the family prepares to head into their rst holiday season without their mom by their side, Preston says she feels blessed to have Dr. Patel now as a part of their family. And for Dr. Patel, the role he played in the life of Claudia Baker makes him and his sta want to continue serving his patients in every way.

“I didn’t solve anything for Claudia,” he says quietly. “I didn’t cure her disease. But I was there. I held her hand. I talked to Claudia’s kids and husband. And to me, that was a valuable part of her treatment and my journey with them.”

Dr. Chirag Patel is Senior Managing Partner at Hansa Medical Groupe, which services patients residing in senior communities/facilities located on the North Shore and in the Chicagoland and Northwest Indiana area. For more information, call 847-920-0902 or visit hansamedicalgroupe.com.

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Claudia Baker

PEACE OF MIND

WORDS BY ELAINE DOREMUS

for estate planning. Before establishing her own rm, Witt was vice president and Trust Counsel at BMO Harris Bank, and then a partner in a large Chicago law rm.

Witt and Stern represent corporate duciaries and individuals in estate planning as well as executives, entrepreneurs, and small to medium size business owners. eir services range from the management of trusts and estates to philanthropic planning and business transaction planning, as well as premarital agreements and estate and tax issues raised by divorce or separation.

It’s that time of the year—to re ect on 2018 and celebrate holidays, start thinking about New Year’s resolutions, and acknowledge that nagging feeling that there is something you’ve been putting o that needs to be addressed: estate, tax, and small business planning.

“ e best time to do your plan is now, just do it,” says Mark O. Stern, business partner alongside Melanie Witt of Witt Law, P.C., and a North Shore native and current Lake Forester who understands the needs of discerning North Shore residents. Often, the rst hurdle (and one that leads to putting it o ) is in nding the right rm to represent you. It seems like a daunting task but it doesn’t have to be. Now, there is a law rm servicing the North Shore, northwest suburbs, and Chicago that o ers the perfect blend of a high-touch boutique o ce with the services and caliber of a downtown law rm.

Melanie Witt and Mark Stern, attorneys at Witt Law, P.C., are celebrating the rst anniversary of the rm, which has o ces downtown and in the North suburbs.

“We o er a level of personalized attention that distinguishes us from a large rm, yet we have the big law rm expertise,” says Witt, a University of Michigan and Notre Dame graduate, who was recently named one of the “10 Best Attorneys” in Illinois

“ e majority of my work is with entrepreneurs and small businesses needing responsive legal services with a nimbleness to respond to what people in the area deserve,” adds Stern, who brings a University of Chicago Law School degree and more than 20 years experience to the table, having practiced at the same Chicago rm with Witt. e fact that Witt and Stern have worked together for 17 years brings its own level of synergy to the equation. She says, “Our experience working together o ers a perfect blending of specialties for what most people need. Everyone needs an estate plan; everyone needs help with real estate from time to time; and business owners need and deserve the same level of expert legal advice and careful planning as large companies.”

“Yet, we are much more responsive and cost-e ective for individual and small business clients,” adds Stern.

Witt says that the estate planning eld in particular has changed immensely throughout the years, as people’s lifestyle and expectations have evolved at a rapid pace. “People want to not only live a full life, but they also want to leave a legacy for future generations,” she says.

“People tend to be busy at end of year,” adds Stern. “Having said that, I encourage everyone to make a resolution to get their plans organized and gain comfort in knowing that their a airs are in order.”

Call today and ring in 2019 with comfort and joy.

Witt Law, P.C. is located at 127 E. Main Street in Barrington, 847387-3946, and at 77 W. Washington Street, Suite 1014, in Chicago, 312-613-6305, wittlaw.net.

Witt Law, P.C. o ers the caliber of a big city law rm in a high-touch boutique rm catering to individuals, families, and small business owners on the North Shore.

Melanie Witt

Mark Stern

LIVING AND SELLING THE DREAM

As thoughts turn to the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, @Properties Senior Broker Brandie Malay Siavelis has her thoughts centered directly on springtime, and for good reason.

“I already have a handful of lovely listings I am preparing for sale that will come on after the holidays,” Siavelis says. “It should be a solid sales cycle in 2019 with mid-term elections behind us and interest rates still very low.”

And while spring may still seem very far away, the fact is that in the real estate market, it really is just around the corner. If you are even considering entering the market come 2019 as either a buyer or a seller, Siavelis says its time to start doing your homework.

“More than ever before, buyers really make an e ort to educate themselves and understand what is a value and what is not,” says Siavelis, who has appeared as the real estate expert on HGTV’s Designed to Sell and Hidden Potential, and on Bravo’s Property Envy. “ at means that sellers have to really bring their ‘A’ game when they enter into the marketplace.”

It’s this inside knowledge that makes enlisting an experienced broker essential to ensuring a successful real estate transaction. While it may be tempting for buyers and sellers to make decisions based on websites and hearsay when entering into a market, it’s important to tread carefully.

“Some of these aggregate websites, for example, use computer algorithms to estimate the value of your home, and sometimes that value is just not accurate,” she says. “We as brokers are in and out of homes every single day and we understand the nuances of a particular home. We know if a home has top-of-the-line nishes or has deferred maintenance or if its next door to something undesirable. You need an experienced broker to know that sort of information.”

Of course, Siavelis says she feels extra lucky to be able to work and live in a place such as Chicago, whose long list of amenities continues to attract buyers.

“Chicago is an amazing place to live,” she says. “From the restaurant and the theater scene to our sports teams to being so close to Lake Michigan, it really is hard to beat in terms of value. In fact, the cost of living is still very reasonable compared to other major metropolitan cities.”

With 17 years in real estate and more than $200 million in closed transactions behind her, Siavelis says there are still some things that she would love to cross o her real estate bucket list.

“I feel like I have accomplished a lot in my eld and I am very grateful,” she says. “But if I had to choose something, I would love to do a television show that xes up homes for our veterans. is segment of the housing population can be overlooked and it goes without saying that they are very deserving. Having a show like that on television would hopefully bring more light to the subject.”

And while Siavelis may have her business-savvy mind already focused in on the spring, she also looks forward to spending the holiday season with those she loves.

“I always love watching my boys play hockey, and I’m hoping that my husband and I can carve out some time to take a special trip sometime soon. I would also love to try and run a half marathon. It’s been a whole decade since the last one so I really feel like it’s time I do it.”

WORDS BY TRICIA DESPRES PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBIN SUBAR

Brandie Malay Siavelis is a senior broker at @Properties, located at 30 Green Bay Road in Winnetka. For more information, call 773-9684550, or visit chicagototheshore.com.

@Properties Brandie Malay Siavelis continues her run as one of the area’s most dynamic real estate agents.

Brandie Malay Siavelis

WORDS BY STEVEN BLOCH, M.D.

Plastic Surgery Update: Tummy Tuck

One of the most frequent requests that I get is for a “Tummy Tuck.” Many patients nd that despite diet and exercise they cannot achieve the shaped, toned, at abdomen they desire.

In assessing a patient for a “Tummy Tuck” multiple factors are taken into account:

• What is the status of the overlying skin and the degree of laxity? Is the laxity con ned to the lower or upper part of the abdomen or both?

• What is the status of the underlying muscles? Do they meet in the midline or are they separated from pregnancies or intra-abdominal fat.

• What is the distribution of excess fat? Is it di use or localized in the lower upper abdomen? Does it extend to the anks?

Depending upon the above assessment a customized operation can be performed to address these concerns. ere are multiple procedures and techniques that can be employed.

e procedures vary from non-invasive to full abdominoplasty or some combination.

Methods include:

• Non-invasive Coolsculpt, SculpSure, or Ultrashape;

• Minimally invasive Bodytite for skin tightening;

• Vaser Liposuction for fat reduction;

• Modi ed abdominoplasty for lower abdomen; and

• Full abdominoplasty combining liposuction, repositioning umbilicus, skin tightening, and underlying muscle repair.

ese above procedures can often be combined to give you a customized operation to achieve the results you desire.

For additional information, visit bodybybloch.com or Dr. Bloch can be reached at his Highland Park office at 847-432-0840.

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BodyByBloch bodybybloch Steven Bloch MDBodybybloch

A HOME RUN

AbbVie’s remarkable $100 million gift to Ronald McDonald House Charities has made headlines as the largest single contribution in both corporations’ long histories.

WORDS BY ALICE YORK / ILLUSTRATION BY ROBERT RISKO

platform to bring more awareness to the work that we do.”

As far back as his high school days, Baker, who now lives on the North Shore with his wife and two young daughters, knew journalism was his calling. Reading Sports Illustrated growing up, he was particularly drawn to the stories happening both on and o the eld. With a degree in broadcast journalism from University of Illinois and experience in several di erent markets, born-andbread Chicagoan Baker got to ll his lifelong dream working in the Windy City as a sportscaster, rst at WMAQ 5 in 2003, and on to CBS 2, where he has been for the past decade.

“Sports are part of the fabric of this city, and every day, every season, is di erent. at’s what excites me,” Baker explains. “To be able to cultivate a story and share it with the public, to make them a part of it, is such an amazing experience.”

Baker rst became involved with RMHC-CNI when he got the call to emcee the Navy Pier banquet preceding the McDonald’s All American High School Basketball Game, replacing Mark Giangreco, who had fallen ill. Following that experience, Jim De Maria, whom Baker knew from the Chicago Blackhawks, reached out o ering to get Baker involved with the charity. From there, Baker dived right in, joining the RMHC- CNI board: “My tenure on the board coincided with opening the new house downtown. You go to the houses and see that this is real—it’s not just some noble mission. You understand you can easily be in that position. Having children now, I appreciate how tenuous it all is. Keeping your kids healthy and protecting them is everything, so providing a sense of home, of relief, in these times of crisis is so important.”

The second Ronald McDonald House Charities chapter in the world, founded in 1977, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Chicagoland & Northwest Indiana (RMHC-CNI) set the stage for how the organization would evolve into its current mission: providing comfort and compassion—and, most important, a place to stay—for families of children with complex medical needs.

Ryan Baker, longtime and much loved sports anchor for CBS 2, has been a supporter of RMHC-CNI for many years through generous nancial contributions and lending his time as emcee for fundraising events such as the All American Games, Annual Gala, and Golf Classic.

“Ryan really gives his heart and soul,” says RMHC-CNI CEO, Holly Buckendahl. “We’re so grateful to him for using his public

Further enabling this crucial work is the record-breaking, headline-grabbing $100 million donation to RMHC recently made by AbbVie. With a whopping $3 million earmarked for RMHC-CNI, by the end of 2019, they will be able to add eight more bedrooms to one of the ve houses they’ve built across the Chicagoland area. With construction plans already in place, this gift has helped accelerate the process, getting these rooms opened up for the families that need them.

is astounding donation is just the most recent vow of support for the charity—locally, AbbVie has shown its dedication over years of dedicated volunteerism. “You’ll see AbbVie employees making meals or delivering goodie bags for families, engaging through our board, lending their time and resources—they’ve been such a great community partner, fully engaged with the mission,” says Buckendahl.

Baker echoes this sentiment: “With RMHC, it’s all about the relationships. ey’ve inspired me to make others’ lives better. And that’s what charity is all about—lending a hand and doing what you can.”

For more information, visit ronaldhousechicago.org.

Ryan Baker

Cory delivered top notch service enabling the sale of our home. We completed a cross country move while our home was being prepared for sale and we greatly appreciate his personalized support during this process. Cory was highly professional, thoughtful, and very responsive. AM

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