Sheridan Road, February 2020

BACKER GETS TO THE HEART OF THE MATTER

FEBRUARY BLOOMS AT CHESTNUT STREET FLOWERS LOVE SPEAKS

“

Love is that condition in which the happiness of another person is essential to your own.

LAURA SUMMERS ADVOCATES FOR ALLERGIES ENCHANTING SOUTHEAST ASIA

NATALIE KONSTANT DESIGN DYNAMO

Gelberg, Private Mortgage–Banking Sales Supervisor ; Ellen Topel, Senior Private Banker ; Tom Hulick, WBS Financial Advisor*; Irma Parada, Private Banking Client Associate ; Mark Majoros, Wealth Advisor Client Associate

The personal approach to wealth management

Everything we do is built around you. In fact, we’re committed to working closely with you and your advisors to create a plan that fits your unique needs and goals. Ready to get started? Come meet the team of specialists at your local Northbrook Wells Fargo Private Bank.

wellsfargoprivatebank.com

Wells Fargo Private Bank provides products and services through Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., the banking affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company, and its various affiliates and subsidiaries. Brokerage products and services are offered through Wells Fargo Advisors. Wells Fargo Advisors is a trade name used by Wells Fargo Clearing Services, LLC, Member SIPC, a registered broker-dealer and non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. Trust services available through banking and trust affiliates in addition to non-affiliated companies of Wells Fargo & Company. Insurance products are available through insurance subsidiaries of Wells Fargo & Company and underwritten by non-affiliated Insurance Companies. Not available in all states.

© 2019 Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. Member FDIC. NMLSR ID 399801. IHA-B17087

(Left to right): Andrew Zimmerman, WBS Financial Advisor*; Colleen McCaffery, Wealth Advisor ; Brandon Johnson, WBS Client Associate ; Lisa Bertagna, WM Private Banking Advisor–Market Leader ; Joseph Karam, WBS Financial Advisor*; Shanise Evans, Fiduciary Advisory Specialist ; Russ

Individuals denoted by the asterisk (*) are employed by Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC and are registered with Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC, and work in conjunction with The Private Bank but are not employed by Wells Fargo Bank, N.A.

159 E WALTON PL, 16A

3 Beds | 3.1 Baths • $2,850,000 159EWaltonPl16A.info

Enjoy outstanding lake and beachfront views from this premier unit at the Palmolive! The home boasts three bedrooms with one of the most luxurious master suites in the city, offering a separate dressing room/seating area, walk-in closet, and a spa bath. The sensational views begin in the foyer and continue into the living spaces with three sides of windows. The updated kitchen opens to the dining room with great views. The kitchen offers Wolf, Sub-Zero, and Miele appliances. Additional bedroom suites each with luxe finishes. Fabulous storage, laundry room, and valet parking for two cars! Full service, concierge building with a spa & fitness center.

1555 N ASTOR ST, 30W

4 Beds | 3.2 Baths • $1,200,000 1555NAstorSt30W.info

Spectacular views of Chicago in this half floor residence, ideally located on picturesque Astor Street. The living room offers endless views of Lake Michigan and the park with a wet bar that connects the living room & dining room. An expansive master suite has oversized windows showcasing views of Navy Pier and the dramatic downtown city skyline. 3 additional bedrooms complete this wonderful home. This service-oriented building offers on-site management, an engineer, and has an indoor pool, sundeck, tennis court, and fitness center. Enjoy living steps from Lincoln Park, Lake Michigan beaches, and bike paths.

2455 N GREENVIEW AVE

4 Beds | 3.1 Baths • $1,750,000 2455NGreenviewAve.info

Sleek and contemporary, like-new construction home in the perfect Lincoln Park locale. This sophisticated home offers exceptional outdoor living, a modern floating staircase, and motorized blinds throughout. The chef’s kitchen has a huge center island, highend appliances, custom cabinetry and Carrera marble countertops. An adjacent family room with fireplace opens to the outdoor living spaces. The luxe master suite and 2 additional bedrooms are on the 2nd level. Lower level has a theater room, wine cellar, entertainment room, and the 4th bedroom. Radiant front steps and a 2-car garage!

2112 N HUDSON AVE, C

4 Beds | 3.1 Baths • $919,000 2112NHudsonAveC.info

Rarely available, end-unit townhome, located on one of East Lincoln Park’s most coveted and quiet one-way streets. Main level offers spacious living spaces, including a living room with high ceilings and built-in bookcases. An updated kitchen features white cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, and granite countertops with pocket doors that open to a family/ dining room. 3 gracious bedrooms are located on the second level. The third level Is a 4th bedroom, and also makes a great office or rec space as it opens onto the large west-facing terrace with treetop views. Huge lower level. Steps from Lincoln Park and the zoo!

real estate

BEYOND THE ORDINARY.

1291 ELM TREE ROAD, LAKE FOREST

Exquisite craftsmanship and luxurious finishes elevate this special home to a class of its own. A few doors from Lake Michigan, the spectacular ravine setting is unparalleled with hand-hewn trails, steps and breath-taking natural vistas; all blending with a series of natural gardens that connect the ravine and the estate grounds. Graciously sized rooms, five ensuite bedrooms, finished basement, guest house, lap pool with pool house and separate exercise gazebo all make this a one-of-a kind property.

This spectacular estate is the perfect blend of comfort and elegance as it embraces a spectacular natural setting.

A new listing to match your lifestyle. Contact me for more details.

•

•

Interior Design by Studio Gild

Grand Braeside Home on 1 acre with large backyard and lots of table land backing up to ravine.

Offered at $1,175,000 | 205PINEPOINT.INFO

Glamorous first floor master suite with den, 4 additional rooms upstairs plus in-ground pool surrounded by nature.

Offered at $1,150,000 | 1981PARTRIDGE.INFO

Gorgeous classic Georgian home with spectacular architectural detail on beautiful wooded acre lot.

Offered at $1,075,000 | 390HAZEL.INFO

1981 PARTRIDGE LN, HIGHLAND PARK

205 PINE POINT DR, HIGHLAND PARK

390 HAZEL AVE, HIGHLAND PARK

The Circle

Since 1971, Motor Werks has been a staple of the Barrington community, and has grown into one of the largest, automotive retailers in the midwest.

But we haven’t forgotten what got us here. We take pride in offering an outstanding customer experience with every service we perform, to every customer, inviting you into something we call the circle Visit a place where excellence isn’t a goal, it’s the standard, and see for yourself what the circle is all about.

MOTOR WERKS welcome to the circle

1475 Barrington Rd, Barrington, IL 60010

is North Shore

MAKEUP

CAROLINA RITZLER JUMPSUIT PROVIDED BY NEIMAN MARCUS NORTHBROOK

EVANSTON & CHICAGO 847-733-0933 | Lawyers@bsbpc.com

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Founder & Publisher

Editor-in-Chief

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REDDING WORTH

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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.

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 differing opinions are welcomed. The publisher reserves the right to edit and place all editorials and ads. © 2020 JWC Media

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

EDITOR’S NOTE

WEARING

Montelliana Clara boots

Happy New Year! I am so excited to see what 2020 brings and am filled with anticipation for all the great stories we will share. The first features of 2020 will warm your heart as many have a nod to this month’s Valentine’s Day.

Speaking of warm, our first feature highlights Winnetka’s Laura Summers. Taking a break from selling ads worldwide, Laura is now spending her time advocating for those with food allergies. Most recently, she put her talents to use in business development for Spokin—an app to help manage food allergies.

to help. This Shred415 trainer shares her city and shore faves in Shore vs. City

Exchanging workout routines for card games, SR Teen features Highland Park’s Hannah Frazer who hopes to get kids talking with her interactive card game Question Connection.

Art & Artist spotlights Highland Park photographer Larry Simon. I am sure you will love his images as much as I do.

Swapping photographs for advice, Trending shares how Highland Park’s celebrated Dr. Alexandra Solomon stays on trend. Her new book Taking Sexy Back just might be your prescription for a new lease on love.

Dinner Date visits Lake Forest’s Kuro Bistro and explores its Japanese fusion cuisine. Sushi anyone?

VISITING

Deplar Farms in Iceland

READING

Laura Snyder’s Eye of the Beholder about Dutch artists in the 17th century

Moving from allergies to heart-starting surgeries, our second feature showcases Lurie Children’s Hospital Cardiovascular-Thoracic Surgeon Dr. Carl Backer. I had the great pleasure of dining with Carl and his wife Julia and after hearing his amazing stories of life-saving triumphs I had to share them with you.

Even though the ground is frozen, our final feature is coming up roses. Winnetka’s Allison Cassato and Michelle McKenna recently took ownership of Chestnut Street Flowers and business is blooming.

Does the New Year have you thinking about a new you? Wilmette’s Jenny Sloan might be able

If you are hungry for an escape, First Class satisfies with a mystical tour of Southeast Asia. Pack your bags and travel east to a land of temples, exotic cuisine, and awe-inspiring adventures.

Returning to the North Shore, Home Tour reveals a house that strikes the perfect balance between formal, traditional, cozy, and family friendly. Interior designer and this month’s cover, Natalie Konstant of Konstant Home, achieved this result with a brilliant touch. Well done.

Parting Words concludes the issue with the beloved Sally Lou Loveman and her business lovespeaks. I hope you love the issue.

Dustin O’Regan dustin@jwcmedia.com

THIS MONTH I WILL BE

Natalie Konstant

Dr. Carl Backer

YOUR GUIDE to the latest on PEOPLE, PLACES, and THINGS on the North Shore

Chantecaille’s luminescent eye shade—Lion. These Chantecaille eye shades were created to pay tribute to—and benefit—six of Africa’s most endangered species.

SAVE the DATE

FEBRUARY 6–MARCH 8

MADAMA BUTTERFLY

WHERE: Lyric Opera, Chicago

WHEN: Matinee and evening performances available.

TICKETS: Starting at $49. Lyric Opera presents Giacomo Puccini’s heartbreaking tale. Cio-Cio-San, an enchanting geisha in Japan, marries an American naval lieutenant but falls into utter despair when he returns and reveals he’s married an American woman while away, and he’s come to take their son back with him. lyricopera.org

FEBRUARY 22

ROARING 2020S SPEAKEASY & CASINO NITE

WHERE: Speakeasy in downtown Highwood to be announced.

WHEN: 6:30 p.m.

TICKETS: $75

Celebrate 2020 with a trip back to the 1920s. Guests are encouraged to don their best Gatsby era attire while enjoying casino games and delicious drinks and cuisine. In true speakeasy fashion, the location of the event will be announced (along with a secret code for entry) after ticket purchase. celebratehighwood.org/casino-nite

FEBRUARY 22

HOPE THROUGH CARING GALA

WHERE: Radisson Blu

Aqua Hotel, Chicago

WHEN: 6 p.m.

TICKETS: $450

The Les Turner ALS Foun-

dation will honor Matt Creen and Ed Rapp during the evening, emceed by WGN-TV’s Dina Bair. Complimentary tickets for persons living with ALS and one caregiver available. lesturnerals.org

FEBRUARY 25

EBB & FLOW OPENING RECEPTION

WHERE: The Gallery, Lake Forest

WHEN: 5 p.m.

New Orleans artist Elise Allen debuts her exhibit, Ebb & Flow, on Fat Tuesday. Art Director Vicki Marasco of Lake Forest curates the collection of beach and seascape-influenced scenes with a contemporary feel. thegallerylf.com

FEBRUARY 29

TRINITY IRISH DANCE COMPANY

WHERE: Auditorium Theatre, Chicago

WHEN: 2 and 7:30 p.m.

TICKETS: Starting at $35. Chicago’s own Trinity Irish Dance Company returns to the stage for the world premiere performances of three works— American Traffic, Home, and Listen trinityirishdancecompany.com

MARCH 1

TREASURE HUNT

WHERE: Art Institute of Chicago, Modern Wing

WHEN: Five start times of 10:45 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 1:30 p.m., or 2:30 p.m.

TICKETS: $40 adults and children (under two free); Treasure Hunt and lunch $75 adults and

children. Explore the galleries and create a kaleidoscope of art at this family favorite program. Engage in STEAM activities and learn all about selected works as you visit five stops to complete an activity book and participate in hands-on crafts. Treasure Hunt sparks a love of art in children and families, reveals the best of the Art Institute of Chicago, and provides attendees with a new vocabulary to talk about art and creativity. artic.edu/events/4783/ treasure-hunt

MARCH 4–8

ALVIN AILEY AMERICAN DANCE THEATER

WHERE: Auditorium Theatre, Chicago

WHEN: 7:30 p.m.

TICKETS: Starting at $35. World-class dance company, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater, presents its spring program featuring twelve stunning works and the Midwest premieres of Ounce of Faith, Greenwood, and Ode. Mixed works will be featured over four days at Auditorium Theatre. auditoriumtheatre.org

MARCH 4–8

DANCEWORKS 2020

WHERE: Wirtz Center for the Performing Arts, Evanston

WHEN: Matinee and evening performances on select dates.

TICKETS: $25

Northwestern University’s annual showcase of dance featuring new works by this year’s chosen choreographers—Nicole

Clarke-Springer, Miguel Angel Gamero Ortega, Jeff Hancock, and Joel Valentín-Martínez. wirtz.northwestern.edu/events/ event/danceworks-2020

MARCH 5

2020 YOUTH OF THE YEAR

COMPETITION AND DINNER

WHERE: Aon Grand Ballroom at Navy Pier, Chicago WHEN: 5:30 p.m.

TICKETS: Starting at $250. Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago award the organization’s highest honor during this essay and speech competition, given to a young man or woman who inspires Chicago’s youth to develop character, leadership, and a willingness to serve their community. bgcc.org/yoy

MARCH 6

ENCHANTED EVENING AT THE BOTANIC GARDEN

WHERE: Chicago Botanic Garden, Glencoe WHEN: 6:30 p.m.

TICKETS: $125

Counseling Center of the North Shore (formerly Family Service of Winnetka-Northfield) presents its annual benefit at the Chicago Botanic Garden featuring cocktails, heavy hors d’oeuvres, and exclusive access to the annual Orchid Show. ccns.org/benefit

MARCH 7

THE MAGIC BALL

WHERE: Swissôtel Chicago WHEN: 6:30 p.m.

TICKETS: $250

Enjoy cocktails, dinner, an exciting program, and the op-

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

WORDS BY KEMMIE RYAN

portunity to support a child through and beyond their parent’s cancer at Camp Kesem. events.campkesem.org/chicago

MARCH 7

JACKIE—TIMELESS STYLE FROM AN AMERICAN TREASURE

WHERE: Deer Path Inn, Lake Forest

WHEN: 10 a.m.

Fashion Matters Chicago hosts its signature 2020 event with plenty of beauty, fashion, and all-things Jackie O. fashionmatterschicago.com

MARCH 8

LAUNCH: DRIVING FASHION FORWARD

WHERE: Autohaus on Edens, Northbrook

WHEN: 4:30 p.m.

TICKETS: $80 general admission; $100 VIP. A look at spring fashion during an evening fashion show benefitting The Josselyn Center. launchfashionshow.com

MARCH 12

2020 HUMANITARIAN AWARDS

WHERE: Hyatt

Regency Chicago

WHEN: 5 p.m.

TICKETS: $500

The Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center hosts Chicago’s largest gathering of Holocaust Survivors, civic, and business leaders, including keynote speaker—former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley. ilholocaustmuseum. org/humanitarian-awards-dinner-registration

MARCH 14

MYAC’S MASQUERADE GALA

WHERE: Westin Chicago North Shore, Wheeling

WHEN: 6 p.m.

TICKETS: $350

Midwest Young Artists Conservatory (MYAC) presents its annual gala featuring themed performances and more. e.givesmart.com/events/eM2

MARCH 18–22

CHICAGO FLOWER & GARDEN SHOW

WHERE: Navy Pier, Chicago

WHEN: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday; nighttime events vary by day.

TICKETS: $20 adults; $5 children 5 to 12 years old.

The Chicago Flower & Garden Show returns, this year with more than 700 plant varieties, floral fashions by local designers, and more. chicagoflower.com

APRIL 3

THE ROARING ‘20S: HPDS’

ANNUAL GALA

WHERE: Rockwell on the River, Chicago

WHEN: 6:30 p.m.

TICKETS: $225

Hyde Park Day School (HPDS) hosts its annual gala, celebrating the school’s 20th anniversary, with promises of a roaring good time. hydeparkday. org/annual-giving-gala

APRIL 4

HADLEY CENTENNIAL GALA

WHERE: The Dalcy, Chicago

WHEN: 6:30 p.m.

TICKETS: $350

The Woman’s Board and Board of Trustees of Hadley Institute

for the Blind and Visually Impaired invite guests to celebrate 100 years of making a difference. hadley.edu/centennial

APRIL 17

THE MAGIC OF GIVING

WHERE: Park West, Chicago

WHEN: 6 p.m.

TICKETS: Starting at $200. Prepare to be mesmerized by magician and star of Netflix’s Magic for Humans, Justin Willman, during the Winnetka Board of the Northwestern University Settlement’s signature fundraiser. winnetkaboard.com

APRIL 17

CENTER STAGE

WHERE: Auditorium Theatre and The Old Post Office, Chicago

WHEN: 6:30 p.m. performance; 8 p.m. dinner and dancing.

TICKETS: $1,000

The Women’s Board of the Joffrey Ballet and gala chairs April Daly and Miguel Blanco, Greg Jenkins, DL and Jazelle Morriss, Eric Schieber and Tony Priore, and Lauren Streicher and Jason Brett invite guests to an experiential dinner experience. The evening will begin at Auditorium Theatre with a

performance by the award-winning ballet company. Guests will then be transported to The Old Post Office for cocktails, dinner, and dancing. joffrey.org/centerstage

APRIL 25

ART OF CARING

WHERE: Deer Path Inn, Lake Forest

WHEN: 6 p.m.

TICKETS: $250

The Women’s Board of Catholic Charities, Lake County Services presents its 31st annual signature event with a gourmet dinner, craft cocktails, live auction, entertainment, and more. catholiccharities.net

APRIL 25

UNICEF GALA CHICAGO

WHERE: The Geraghty, Chicago

WHEN: 6:30 p.m.

TICKETS: $1,000

The Midwest Regional Office of the U.S. Fund for UNICEF hosts its 13th annual gala, this year presenting its Chicago Humanitarian Award to Chance the Rapper. The evening supports UNICEF’s work for children in more than 190 countries and territories around the world. unicefgalachi.org

MARCH 4–8

Performers Sarah Daley-Perdomo and Vernard Gilmore for ALVIN AILEY AMERICAN DANCE THEATER. Photography by Todd Rosenberg

CINCORO TEQUILA

As a result of years of research, blending, tasting, and development, CINCORO was released with one goal in mind: to create the new gold standard in tequila. e signature Cincoro taste pro le is derived from a unique process created to highlight the highest quality highland and lowland 100 percent Blue Weber agave, blending them after separately distilling to showcase the best each plant can o er. e agave is hand-selected, slow-cooked, and distilled in separate small batches, creating two distinct distillates, which are then mixed together to create an innovative new blend. e result is a one-of-a-kind tequila experience akin to a cognac or ne wine, making for the perfect Valentine’s Day gift for any wine or spirits lover. Available at Binny’s Beverage Depot, 153 Skokie Valley Highway, Highland Park; or visit cincoro.com.

BOLD EYES

Good behind the Glam introduces BOTANICAL LASH a plant-based organic mascara that actually works. e nourishing formula will leave your lashes fuller, stronger, and bolder. No need to sacri ce performance for pure ingredients. is mascara contains a volumizing formula powered by natural elements that is 85 percent organic, is long-lasting, and non-clumping. Made in the USA with sustainably sourced and organic ingredients, this mascara leaves you looking glam and feeling good.It is paraben-free, soy-free, sulfate-free, gluten-free, lead-free, and contains no nano-particles. Using Vitamin E derived from sun ower oil, the formula may help nourish and strengthen lashes. Unlike traditional ber mascaras, which use synthetic materials for a volumizing e ect, Botanical Lash mascara achieves this using organic plant extracts and natural waxes. For more information, visit goodbehindtheglam.com.

WILD COLOR

I just discovered CHANTECAILLE luminescent eye shades created to pay tribute to—and bene t—six of Africa’s most endangered, vanishing species: the elephant, rhinoceros, cheetah, gira e, lion, and pangolin. All of these wild animals face common threats from shrinking habitats, con ict with humans, and illegal poaching, which make their long-term survival uncertain. ese shades are not only a great way to give back but are pearlescent, light-catching eyeshadows that wash the eye with multi-dimensional shimmer. is gel-powder formula is infused with sophisticated pure-pearl particles to create a wash of color with a dash of dazzle on the eyelid. Talc-free and utterly blendable, the shades have an emollient, smooth application set with a featherweight cream-like nish that never falls or creases. I am just wild about the collection. For more information, visit a Blue Mercury store near you, or chantecaille.com.

Emilia Fazzalari, CEO of Cincoro Tequila. Photography by Suzanna Hallili.

SHOR E CITY

WILMETTE’S JENNY SLOAN CAN

OFTEN BE FOUND PEDALING AROUND TOWN WITH HER THREE KIDS IN TOW OR ENCOURAGING HER SHRED415 CLIENTS TO GIVE IT A GO. WHATEVER ROLE SHE CHOOSES TO PLAY, SLOAN IS GRATEFUL FOR THE GIFTS SHE HAS BEEN GRANTED EACH AND EVERY DAY. THIS BUSY AND FIT MOM SHARES HER CITY AND SHORE FAVORITES WITH SHERIDAN ROAD

EDITED BY DUSTIN O’REGAN

What’s on the horizon? Continuing renovations on our 100-year-old home Mantra? I’m grateful for where I am and excited about where I’m going Best grooming tip? Dry shampoo and EltaMD tinted moisturizer Guilty pleasure? Bravo TV and online shopping Favorite foods? Mexican food and dark chocolate Music you love? Top 40 and Country Best advice ever given to you? If you see someone without a smile, give them one of yours—Dolly Parton Best advice you’ve given? I tell my kids every day to try your best and be kind Earliest memory? Moving into my childhood home in Glen Ellyn When you wake up, you? Snuggle with whichever child woke me up Before bed, you? Read What’s on your bookshelf? Amy Harmon’s What the Wind Knows and Rhys Bowen’s e Tuscan Child You can’t live without? Co ee

ON THE SHORE

Your style is? Workout gear and a top knot Can’t leave the house without? Snacks and my phone charger Transportation? Minivan or my Yuba Cargo bike Driving music? K-love radio. Great messages for little ears Place to eat? Depot Nuevo, Fuel (their chilaquiles are heavenly) Shop? Alexis Vintiques in Kenilworth, Bookends and Beginnings in Evanston, and Nordstrom Rack Best thing about the Shore? Great schools, a wonderful sense of community, and beautiful old houses Worst thing about the Shore? Jimmy Johns doesn’t deliver to my house e perfect day is? Teach or take a class at Shred415, brunch, shopping, and dinner out

and naps Love to escape to? St. Kitts Advice you would give to your younger self? e moment that you start to wonder if you deserve better, you do

IN THE CITY

Your style is? Jeans, heels, and statement earrings Can’t leave the house without? A great lipstick and Google Maps; my sense of direction is less than desirable Transportation? Metra there and Uber home Driving music? e Chainsmokers Place to eat? Left Coast, Pasta Palazzo, and RPM Steak Shop? Southport Corridor boutiques Best thing about the City? Great restaurants, the lake path, and the beautiful skyline Worst thing about the City? If it weren’t for our brutal winters, everyone would live here. Chicago has it all e perfect day is? Room service in bed, visiting a museum, and dinner at a new restaurant

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBIN SUBAR HAIR, MAKEUP & STYLING BY CONSTANTINE JAMES

Yuba Cargo Bike

St. Kitts

WE NEED TO TALK

Find out why a Highland Park High School Senior believes the answer to improving communication is in the cards.

WORDS BY ALEXA BURNELL PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBIN SUBAR

Despite increased methods to communicate, Highland Park High School (HPHS) Senior Hannah Frazer believes that authentic human connection is at an alltime low, prompting her to create a nonprofit geared toward getting the conversation going.

Two years ago, Frazer founded Question Connection a 501(c) (3) that she hopes will help reduce feelings of isolation and incidents of bullying, as well as improve interpersonal communication skills and create more meaningful relationships.

Day in and day out Frazer witnessed students flocking to the cafeteria, sitting with the same peer groups, and making more effort to check their Instagram than talk to one another. She also observed students who lacked a friend niche who found comfort from a sterile iPhone rather than remaining open to the world around them.

“I started to wonder how this lack of true human connection was impacting overall happiness. This gave me the idea that turned into Question Connection—a card game designed to spark real conversation with a series of get-to-know-you types of questions,” Frazer explains.

When she presented her concept to the District 112 school board, they shared some of their findings of increased incidences of teen anxiety and depression and how technology misuse may be part of the problem. Frazer felt she had to do something and sought out an independent study with HPHS psychology teacher, Chris Kean. Under his guidance, she worked on the beginning stages of Question Connection. Frazer developed a series of conversation starter prompts, including, “If elected to office, the first law I would enact or change would be . . . ,” and “The most surprising thing about me is . . . .” Frazer also added an advanced section, motivating players to step a bit further outside of their comfort zone, by challenging participants to make up a funny dance or tell a silly joke.

As Question Connection took flight, Frazer had cards professionally printed and took her product to market. She began visiting local middle schools and Boys & Girls Clubs where more kids embraced the concept, choosing face-to-face conversation over social media while in her presence.

Frazer is taking the concept international. Question Connection is now available in Spain, Columbia, China, and Korea. While the games have already been translated into Spanish, Chinese, and Korean, Frazer plans to have the cards translated into Hebrew as well. As Frazer looks forward to college, she is eager to take Question Connection to the next level. Having come this far, she knows that the word impossible is not in her vocabulary.

For more information, visit questionconnection.com.

Question Connection cards

Hannah Frazer

EDITOR’S SELECTS

ÃRGREEN SNOW GOGGLES, available at Blink Optical Lake Forest, 847-234-6541

JAR BAR MAKE A STATEMENT shade in new mini gloss, available at The Lake Forest Shop in Lake Forest, 847-234-0548

CANADA GOOSE KENSINGTON PARKA, available at Canada Goose Chicago, 312767-0544

RUBY & DIAMOND 3 SIDED EARRINGS by Graziela, available at Razny Jewelers in Highland Park, 847432-5300

EDITED BY DUSTIN O’REGAN

OPERA LIMITED EDITION PENDANT NECKLACE in 18k yellow gold set with coral and round brilliant-cut diamonds, available at Buccellati, 312600-9224

PAJAMAS BY PJ HARLOW, available at Bedside Manor Ltd Lake Forest, 847-295-8370

LOVING these perfect little somethings for that special someone. 12 5 8 6 7 34

ANDREW GN DRESS, available at neapolitan collection, 847-441-7784

CHANEL JOURNAL, available at Style Shack in Highland Park 847-579-4525

Our Harvard and Yale trained medical director and Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Gregory Turowski, MD, PhD, is not only specialized in cosmetic surgery, but also in the most innovative non-invasive medical spa treatments. Dr. Turowski closely supervises our team of highly trained professional Aestheticians and provides on-site advice and consultations.

A GEM IN YOUR OWN BACKYARD

Celebrating over 20 years of providing our clients with the most advanced medical spa technology

NON-SURGICAL TREATMENTS FOR FACIAL REJUVENATION

• Fractional CO2 Laser®

- Strongest FDA approved laser that reduces wrinkles/fine lines and improves skin texture

• Fraxel Dual®

- Improve textural surface, fine wrinkles and sun damage

• Ultherapy® - Lift and tighten

• Thermage® and J PLASMA®

- Minimally invasive treatments to smooth, tighten and contour skin

• Microneedling with PRP®

- Minimizes appearance of fine lines, acne scars and improves the skin’s texture, tone and color

BODY SCULPTING

• MiraDry®- Permanently reduce under arm sweat and odor

• Coolsculpting®- #1 non-surgical fat reduction treatment

• Emsculpt®- FDA-approved non invasive treatment for muscle toning and body sculpting

heart these

EDITED BY ALLISON DUNCAN

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.

EDITED BY KEMMIE RYAN / PHOTOGRAPHY BY LARRY MILLER, RHONDA HOLCOMB, AND ROBIN

SUBAR

NICOLETTE ROCKWELL 2020 Legacy Go Red Reception

LILLY MCAVEENEY Fill a Heart 4 Kids’ Gratitude Luncheon

KATIE MOOR Antiques + Modernism Winnetka Show

ANXIETY

• PTSD

Chicago’s first private facility to offer clinically proven intravenous ketamine therapies for the treatment of depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, pain and other ailments.

• Potential to eliminate your medications and their unwanted side effects

Chicago’s first private facility to offer clinically proven intravenous ketamine therapies for the treatment of depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, pain and other ailments.

Chicago’s first private facility to offer clinically proven intravenous ketamine therapies for the treatment of depression, anxiety, PTSD, OCD, bipolar disorder, pain and other ailments.

• Potential to eliminate your medications and their unwanted side effects!

• Potential to eliminate your medications and their unwanted side effects!

• Minimal downtime and no lingering side effects

• State-of-the-art medical facilities in River North and Lincolnshire

• Minimal downtime and no lingering side effects

• Minimal downtime and no lingering side effects

• Customized therapy in a private, luxurious setting

• State-of-the-art medical facility in River North

• State-of-the-art medical facility in River North

• Customized therapy in a private, luxurious setting

• Onsite anesthesiologist, registered nurses, and skilled staff

• Customized therapy in a private, luxurious setting

• Onsite anesthesiologist, registered nurses, and skilled staff

Hailed as “The most significant advancement in mental health in half a century”, ketamine is up to 80% effective in relieving treatment resistant depression (TRD). It is also effective in treating chronic pain (CRPS and fibromyalgia), migraines, OCD, PTSD, neuropathy, and more. Additionally, Chicago Ketamine Centers is now offering SGB (Stellate Ganglion Block), the breakthrough instant treatment for PTSD. As featured on “60 Minutes,” this treatment is transforming lives.

• Onsite anesthesiologist, registered nurses, and skilled staff

Hailed as “The most significant advancement in mental health in half a century”, ketamine is up to 80% effective in relieving treatment resistant depression (TRD). It is also effective in treating chronic pain (CRPS and fibromyalgia), migraines, OCD, PTSD, neuropathy, and more. Chicago Ketamine Centers is now providing this proven therapy utilizing proven protocols. 844-9-IVMEDS

Hailed as “The most significant advancement in mental health in half a century”, ketamine is up to 80% effective in relieving treatment resistant depression (TRD). It is also effective in treating chronic pain (CRPS and fibromyalgia), migraines, OCD, PTSD, neuropathy, and more. Chicago Ketamine Centers is now providing this proven therapy utilizing proven protocols. 844-9-IVMEDS

BLUSHING BEAUTY

We’re saying “be mine” to blush this season.

EDITED BY ALLISON DUNCAN

01 Flesh Powder Blush in Fever, available at Flesh, eshbeauty.com 02 Flesh Powder Blush in Rub, available at Flesh, eshbeauty.com 03 Lune+Aster Creamy Cheek Duo Sunset Bronzer & Blush, available at Bluemercury Highland Park, 847-432-7200 04 Dior Rouge Blush in Actrice, available at Nordstrom Old Orchard, 847-677-2121 05 EM Cosmetics Color Drops Serum Blush in Pink Nectar, available at EM Cosmetics, emcosmetics.com 06 Lune+Aster Sunset Bronzer & Blush Palette, available at Bluemercury Highland Park, 847-432-7200 07 Honest Beauty Creme Cheek Blush in Plum Berry, available at Honest Beauty, honest.com 08 Honest Beauty Creme Cheek Blush in Peony Pink, available at Honest Beauty, honest.com 09 Honest Beauty Creme Cheek Blush in Coral Peach, available at Honest Beauty, honest.com 10 trèStiQue Blush Stick in Bora Bora Coral, available at trèStiQue, trestique.com 11 trèStiQue Blush Stick in St. Barths Pink, available at trèStiQue, trestique.com 12 Lune+Aster Horizon Bronzer & Cheek Palette, available at Bluemercury Highland Park, 847-432-7200 13 Patrick Ta Beauty Monochrome Moment Velvet Blush in She’s Passionate, available at Sephora Old Orchard, 847-568-0323 14 EM Cosmetics Color Drops Serum Blush in Soft Amethyst, available at EM Cosmetics, emcosmetics.com 15 Patrick Ta Beauty Monochrome Moment Velvet Blush in She’s Seductive, available at Sephora Old Orchard, 847-568-0323 16 Lila Moss for Marc Jacobs Beauty Liquid Highliner, available at Sephora Old Orchard, 847-568-0323

CHANGING LIVES WITH KETAMINE

WORDS BY DR. BAL NANDRA

If you struggle from major depression, anxiety, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and haven’t found antidepressants and other medications to be effective, or if stress usually worsens your depression, there may be a solution that can get you relief in just a few days. I’m Dr. Bal Nandra, Medical Director of IV Solution and Ketamine Centers and I want to tell you how ketamine infusions can change your life in a few days.

Recent FDA data supports ketamine infusion therapy treatment for depression, chronic pain, fibromyalgia, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), anxiety, PTSD, and even chronic pain and migraines. As part of this revolution, IV Solution is the first and most experienced private medical facility to offer this treatment in Chicago, offering customized therapy in a confidential setting with anesthesiologists, registered nurses, and skilled staff.

Supported by clinical studies, many from the National Institute of Mental Health, ketamine has been called “the most significant advancement in mental health in half a century.” It has been shown to be up to 80 percent effective in relieving treatment resistant depression (TRD), among other conditions.

Developed in the 1960s as an anesthetic drug, ketamine has been used to successfully treat depression for more than 10 years. It has a safe profile when administered by an experienced anesthesiologist. It works by blocking the brain’s NMDA cell receptors, which raise levels of the neurotransmitter glutamate. Ketamine also remaps and stimulates growth of nerve elements for longterm relief of clinical depression and essentially does a “reboot” of your brain.

IV Solution is also now proud to offer the stellate ganglion block (SGB) for the treatment of PTSD in both veterans and others. This procedure is performed by one of the world’s foremost doctors and pioneers of SGB can eliminate your symptoms almost immediately after one injection.

Ketamine is effective within hours to days with minimal side effects, as opposed to oral antidepressants which are only effective in about 40 percent of patients, take a month or longer to work, and have many undesirable side effects. Most of our patients have improvement after their first or second ketamine infusion and feel very relaxed while they are receiving the treatment. Many patients, with the guidance of their psychiatrist or physician, may be able to decrease or even eliminate their other medications after the treatments.

After the series of six 45-minute infusions for depression done over a period of two to three weeks, patients typically report relief of symptoms for many weeks, and months, after which time booster infusions may be scheduled as needed. Patients can inquire directly for the treatment or can be referred by their physician or mental health professional.

Chicago Cubs national anthem singer and anti-bullying activist, John Vincent, is one of our most outspoken advocates for ketamine treatment. He sums it up well by stating, “Before ketamine, I felt like I was standing in front of a wall, and ketamine has brought me a ladder to get me over that wall. It’s changed my entire life. I feel alive again and am so grateful.”

IV Solutions and Ketamine Centers is located at 300 Village Green Road, Suite 225 in Lincolnshire and at 712 N. Dearborn Street in Chicago. For more information, call 844-9-IV-MEDS (948-6337) or visit chicagoivsolution.com or ketaminechicago.com to watch and listen to our many patient testimonials, news, and radio stories.

Ketamine infusions can help provide relief from a host of symptoms.

Dr. Bal Nandra and the staff of IV Solution and Ketamine Centers

CULTURE & ARTS

THE NORTH SHORE’S MOST CREATIVE PURSUITS

FREEZE FRAME

FROM MOMENTS FROZEN IN TIME TO TAKING SEXY BACK , HERE IS THE HOTTEST TICKET TO WHAT IS TRENDING

Art & Artist feature Larry Simon’s photograph “One Morning, Frozen in Time”

BEHIND t h e LENS

Photographer Larry Simon reveals the artistic process behind his visual storytelling.

WORDS BY ALLISON DUNCAN / PHOTOGRAPHY BY LARRY SIMON

Larry Simon spent a few decades finding ways of using words to tell a story: as a sportswriter, advertising copywriter, voiceover announcer, and an architecture tour guide. And it’s that final role which allowed Simon the opportunity to travel the globe and ignited his passion for photography.

Today, Simon continues to pursue storytelling, just through a visual medium. He takes inspiration from seemingly everyday objects, surfaces, and scenes to create what he describes as “composed narratives shrouded in a sense of the unknown, or the inner world residing in our subconscious, a place where we cannot fill in the blanks.” The translation? Photography, for Simon, is a meditative experience, one in which he can press the metaphorical mute button on the noisiness of life.

In fact, Simon even uses a rangefinder camera to force himself to slow down and to truly consider a scene, and he often finds himself in perfect silence as he focuses on a subject. The key, he says, is to set out without an agenda in an effort to let the subject capture him, instead of vice versa.

That philosophy has helped Simon develop his own form of artistic photography, with the influences of painter Gerhard Rich-

ter for the “breadth of his work;” pianist Alfred Brendel for “refusing to do things according to the status quo;” author Haruki Murakami whose novels have a “surreal quality;” and legendary photographer Saul Leiter, who captured dreamlike New York scenes, mostly within blocks of his Greenwich Village apartment.

Simon also counts the Japanese concept of wabi-sabi, a worldview centered on the acceptance of transience and imperfection with a beauty that’s often considered imperfect, impermanent, and incomplete, as inspiration for his work.

“Japan is painfully aesthetic,” says Simon. “Going there changes your life. It can be a tough society in many ways, but there’s a lovely rhythm and beauty to it. And I’m attracted to the surreal quality of contemporary Japanese prints.”

Often working with a blend of sharp and soft focus, Simon presents his work as digital prints or in photo collage form, a process by which Simon takes two unrelated photographs from two different places and puts them together to tell a story.

Storytelling is part of Simon’s DNA. Referring to himself as “100 percent right brain,” the Highland Park native fell in love with art after a high school field trip to the Art Institute of Chicago, where Edward Hopper’s “Nighthawks” caught his eye. After

“Passing Alexander Calder”

ART & ARTIST

“Kitchen of a Trattoria, Venice”

“Kitchen Door”

“Blue Boat”

“Homeward Bound”

“Pausing on a Landing”

ART & ARTIST

majoring in journalism at Northwestern University in Evanston, Simon was able to translate that love of art into a verbal medium for communication, first in a variety of creative fields before landing on photography.

“I take pictures of what I don’t see, which is different than recording a moment,” says Simon. “I’m fascinated by dreams, though I never remember my own.”

This fascination has led Simon to affect a dream-like quality in his own work.

“With dreams, there’s a sense of surrealism,” he says. “When I look at things outside, in the real world, I look for—and notice— dreamlike moments. Using a rangefinder camera allows you to set up a scene and wait for that moment to arrive. You can see it developing. It’s exciting.”

“I love shooting through surfaces, like a car window,” says Simon. “I only shoot on the run, and when I’m roaming around. I never use filters or Photoshop, and I don’t stage shots. I’ll blur through the camera’s focus, not after the fact with editing tools.”

He explains that when you’re focused on the detail of a surface you’re shooting through, what’s on the other side can take on a different, almost magical, quality. While he doesn’t always shoot in soft focus, and doesn’t think it’s necessarily needed to make an image impressionistic or surreal, he does try to make his photos as “painterly” as possible.

In some ways, Simon’s work could be interpreted as lyrical, perhaps a reflection of his classical piano training. An early client termed his photographic art a form of “digital impressionism.”

All this contributes to Simon’s strong sense of narrative and composition, which is currently on display at Vivid Art Gallery in Winnetka. And he’s working on a mixed media collection comprised of small pieces, in contrast to his larger scale work.

“For me, a photograph must have an idea, a story,” says Simon, “that hopefully gives the viewer something to dream on.”

For more information, visit larrysimon.net. Or visit vividartgallery.net.

Larry Simon. Photograph by Robin Subar

LOVE POTION

Highland Park’s DR. ALEXANDRA SOLOMON is a thought leader in the world of intimate relationships, sexuality, and self-empowerment. A practicing licensed clinical psychologist at The Family Institute at Northwestern University and a clinical assistant professor at Northwestern University, her insights and wisdom have been featured in many media outlets including the TODAY Show, The New York Times, Vogue, O Magazine, and Psychology Today. Her TEDx talk, “Relational Self-Awareness: The Key to Navigating Modern Love” reached over 60,000 views in its first month. Her newest book, TAKING SEXY BACK: How to Own Your Sexuality and Create the Relationships You Want, hit the shelves on February 2. Here is this busy doctor’s prescription for staying on trend.

EDITED BY DUSTIN O’REGAN / PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBIN SUBAR

ON HER NIGHTSTAND

“I have always been a book nerd, and one of the best parts of my work is that I need to stay current on all things love, sex, and marriage. I just started reading Dr. Cheryl Fraser’s new book, Buddha’s Bedroom: The Mindful Loving Path to Sexual Passion & Lifelong Intimacy. There is so much for us to learn about the intersection of love, sex, and mindfulness. I am a lifelong fiction lover as well, so I am also reading Elizabeth Gilbert’s book, City of Girls. It is colorful, subversive, transporting, and masterfully written. The perfect escape.”

IN HER EARBUDS

“I listen to a lot of news these days but when it gets too much, I switch over to Lizzo’s album, Cuz I Love You. I am captivated by her messages of self-compassion, empowerment, and body positivity. Plus my two teens love her, so we can all rock out together. A former student recently sent me an email (I love hearing from former students) encouraging me to check out the neo soul duo, Kindred the Family Soul. She thought I’d like them because they are a married couple whose songs are ‘supportive, healthy, and beautiful.’ Their 2003 Surrender to Love album is rich and romantic, and I can’t stop listening.”

ON HER MOBILE

“My friend, Esther Perel, has a magnificent podcast, Where Should We Begin? Each episode is Esther in conversation with a couple. The success of her podcast is proof positive that there’s a collective hunger for a deeper understanding of sex, love, and couple’s therapy.

I also listen to the podcast, Making Your Heart Make Sense, created by my friend, Mark Groves. He brings on wonderful guests, and they always dive deep into the art and science of relationships. My favorite people to follow online are Glennon Doyle, Dawn Serra, Jaclyn Friedman, Roxane Gay, Amy Siskind, Jen Gunter, Elizabeth Lesser, and The Gottman Institute.”

FOOD & TRAVEL

FROM KURO BISTRO’S SUSHI TO AN ENCHANTING TOUR OF SOUTHEAST ASIA, HERE IS YOUR GUIDE TO THE FINEST OF LOCAL CUISINE AND LUXURY TRAVEL

Monks visit Angkor Thom in Siem Reap, Cambodia

KURO BISTRO

Kuro Bistro opens the doors to tremendous sushi and a warm, family feel.

WORDS BY JAKE AND ELIZA JARVI PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBIN SUBAR

HAWAIIAN TACOS

A pitch-perfect twist on contemporary cuisine’s obsession with tacos. This Sushi Bar Starter uses a crisp wonton shell to hold a chopped sushi salad of tuna, masago, mango, jicama, red onion, and cilantro, sprinkled with white and black sesame seeds and served with honey wasabi, citron marinade, and unagi sauce. The fresh ingredients deliver fantastic sushi flavors and a chill that masks a delightful building spiciness that lasts on the lips for several minutes. A highlight of our night.

Though Kuro Bistro has only been open for a few months, word has gotten around. When we arrived for a very early dinner shortly after they opened on a Friday night, the tables were rapidly populating and the bar was already working on a steady rhythm of cocktails and cosmos. The atmosphere is all dark woods and clean, contemporary lines. The extensive menu was refined over years in the business and several iterations, originating in the heart of downtown Chicago before migrating to the North Shore. We’re very glad that their delicious menu is now available without the commute.

Kuro Bistro is located at 950 N. Western Avenue in Lake Forest, 224706-6090, kurolakeforest.com

DINNER DATE

We tried several delicious sushi mainstays during our visit, but our favorite was the Crazy Salmon Signature Maki—spicy salmon and avocado rolled in rice topped with a slice of seared salmon, sesame oil, vibrant pink salmon roe, and chopped scallions on top of a balsamic reduction. It’s a lux, creamy roll with a diversity of flavor and texture, light on the palate but nicely filling, perfectly complemented by fresh wasabi and ginger. If, however, you prefer nigiri to maki, we really enjoyed sampling the trio of tuna offerings—Bluefin, ChuToro, and O-Toro—experiencing the textural journey from fatty to lean.

CHILEAN SEA BASS

The magic of this dish comes from a pistachio crust that teases out a deep nuttiness in the sea bass combined with a lovely tanginess and element of heat from a slaw of fennel, celery, and onion in brown butter. A side of black rice in red wine sauce is almost fruity, acting as a wonderful counter agent to the spice in the slaw and balancing the richness of the fish beautifully while also providing a welcome element of visual contrast to the plate. Even though the sea bass is served on top of the rice, these two flavors shine brightest side by side rather than combined into one bite. All in all, an elegant and scrumptious centerpiece to a meal.

CRAZY SALMON SIGNATURE MAKI

The Captivating Charm of SOUTHEAST ASIA

An exotic sojourn explores the ancient temples and modern streets of three Southeast Asian countries.

WORDS BY DUSTIN O’REGAN

One adjective comes to mind with the mention of Southeast Asia—magical. Perhaps because there is something incredibly special about this part of the world. Its exquisite natural beauty, the gentleness of its residents, ancient temples, and spirituality converge to create an experience that alters something in visitors.

I recently ventured through this area with a group of intrepid companions hailing from all corners of the globe. We dubbed ourselves the “Avani Five”—a reference to the Avani properties we visited in each country. Our extraordinary adventure carried us through Thailand, Laos (pronounced “Lao”), and Cambodia. Although ours was a merry band of travelers, our itinerary is well suited for the lone sightseer seeking introspection, a young couple on a romantic quest, a family hoping to broaden its cultural horizons, or a seasoned pair seeking a history-steeped thrill.

Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Cambodia

FIRST CLASS

First stop … BANGKOK

After a 15 hour nonstop flight from Chicago to Hong Kong and a quick jaunt to Bangkok on Cathay Pacific—my new favorite luxury airline—I met my driver who darted through the hustle and bustle of this city of 8 million to arrive at the Avani+ Riverside Bangkok Hotel. Rising above the banks of the lively Chao Phraya River, the hotel boasts a smooth blend of contemporary style and modern warmth while providing a bird’s eye view of the sprawling city. Any hints of jet lag were dispelled by a delicious breakfast of pressed vegetable juices, Singaporean-style noodles, and jackfruit and pitaya—two succulent local fruits.

I always say the way to really see a city is with a local. So, in step with our resident guide, we set off to explore ornate ancient temples and traditional flower markets, which vividly contrasted with the hip vintage boutiques and ultra-cool coffee shops in the design district. First-time visitors to Bangkok should certainly

explore The Grand Palace complex, home of the fabled Emerald Buddha. Arrive early to beat the crowds and allow ample time to appreciate the acres of gold—you will not be disappointed. We ended our evenings at the hotel’s rooftop restaurant and bar—the aptly named SEEN as it is the place to be seen in Bangkok. Bespoke cocktails and aromatic cuisine overlooking the brightly lit city affirm the classic 80s lyric, “one night in Bangkok and the world’s your oyster.”

Avani+ Riverside Bangkok Hotel rooftop infinity pool

Avani+ Riverside Bangkok Hotel lobby

Avani+ Riverside Bangkok Hotel SEEN cocktail lounge

FIRST CLASS

A short flight from Bangkok delivers you to Luang Prabang, Laos’ capital. Located in the north-central part of the country, it’s surrounded by mountains on a narrow peninsula at the intersection of the Nam Khan and Mekong rivers. The Avani+ Luang Prabang Hotel rests in the heart of the city while seemingly existing in a world of its own. Built within a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the intimate 53-room hotel boasts a French neo-classical design erected in the style of the city’s grand villas.

The suites encircle a sparkling black-bottom pool surrounded by flowering trees. During my daily swim, fragrant white flowers often floated down from above. Feeling every bit like Esther Williams, I tucked the fragrant blossoms behind my ear as I glided across the water. Just to the south of the pool—and contributing to the mystique of the surrounding courtyard—stands an enormous ancient tree that, according to local lore, contains spiritual inhabitants. Evidence of the locals’ belief in the tale’s veracity are the remnants of candles surrounding the tree’s trunk, apparently lit to please said residents.

When hunger calls, the hotel’s Main Street Bar and Grill offers a fusion of French colonial and authentic Lao cuisine. After savoring divine desserts like mango sticky rice and chocolate volcano cake, we often ventured out to the night markets. With our wallets full and our bellies fuller, we strolled the stalls in search of gifts for those we had left behind.

One early morning we donned ceremonial attire, knelt atop

mats, and participated in an alms giving ceremony as a silent stream of orange-clad monks passed en route to the temple. We followed this with a trek up Mount Phousi for sweeping views of the lush jungle. At the entrance, we purchased caged birds to release at the mountain-top Buddha’s feet with the promise of good luck. Little cage in hand, I joyfully headed up the mountain.

LAOS

Avani+ Luang Prabang Hotel, Luang Prabang, Laos

Markets, Luang Prabang, Laos

FIRST CLASS

My appreciation of the lush jungle views quickly dimmed when I noticed one of my birds appeared to have taken an unexpected trip to heaven. Horrified at the prospect of bad luck, I hurriedly opened the cage. My heart pounded with relief as both little birds took flight under the gaze of the mammoth Buddha.

One evening as the sun slowly descended behind the mountains, we drifted down the Mekong River. Passing local fishermen wearing conical hats and silently guiding ancient skiffs, the scene made me wonder—was I an American woman traveling with friends in the 21st century or a French woman floating along the river in the 19th?

Back on dry land, we dined at a local favorite—Mando de Laos.

The restaurant is surrounded by three lily ponds so beautiful they are classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Overlooking floating lilies and dining by candlelight, we devoured local Lao cuisine highlighted by a very spicy mango salad.

One day in Laos was an explosion of activity, first visiting the Kuang Si Waterfall where we jumped in for a swim. Uproarious laughter followed when we realized the fish were well versed in the art of pedicure. Afterward, we were off to the Laos Buffalo Dairy to sample delicious house-made cheeses, cheesecake, and ice cream all crafted from water buffalo’s milk. Approximately 94 percent of the Asian population is lactose intolerant. Water buffalo milk, however, contains a different protein strain than cow’s milk and can be tolerated. Using this milk, the Lao people can easily add dairy to their diet. The farm’s benefits are not merely dietary; it helps provide a steady income to farmers by renting and caring for their buffalo and offers English classes to school children.

Pha Tad Ke Botanical Garden was the third stop of the day. We arrived on a local fisherman’s skiff because the river’s water level was abnormally low due to Chinese dams to the north. Our initial apprehension about boarding the tiny skiff was quickly forgotten when we encountered the exotic beauty of native Lao flora.

Our final day took us to the riverside Ock Pop Tok Living Crafts Center. Here we learned about the history of silk and the methods employed for weaving and dying. Gifted artisans spun silk before our eyes and all of us took a little something home to remember the experience. That afternoon it was off to Cambodia’s Siem Reap and its famed temples.

Avani+ Luang Prabang Hotel pool, Luang Prabang, Laos

Mekong River, Laos

FIRST CLASS

SIEM REAP

“When Angkorian society began, Paris and London were not much more than elaborate villages.” – Kim Fay

As the plane touched down, I was so excited to arrive in this thriving city—and to follow in the footsteps of countless journalists, movie stars, and tomb raiders. Avani’s FCC Angkor, our home base, is nestled alongside the languid Siem Reap River and exudes colonial charm. Journalistic tools of the trade dot the property and hint at the history behind the letters FCC, which stands for Foreign Correspondents’ Club. In my suite, a vintage typewriter held a typed letter welcoming me to Siem Reap—a clever touch. The Mansion (a former residence of the French Governor) houses Scribe, a glorious watering hole offering strong libations and a refurbished restaurant serving authentic Khmer cuisine and Asian fusion dishes.

Bright and early the next morning, we met our guide, a veteran photojournalist, for a tour of Angkor Wat, Ta Prohm, and several other legendary Cambodian temples. Although the 4:45 am start seemed impossibly early, a delightful journey through time ensued as we stood in awe of these ancient masterpieces. Angkor Wat, built over a thousand years ago, was even more impressive than I had imagined. My first glimpse was a faint silhouette through the marsh’s foggy breath. As the fog receded, five lotus bud temples stretching toward the Hindu Gods were revealed. Built by 50,000 artisans and laborers over forty years and constructed with more stone than all the Egyptian pyramids combined, scholars believe

FCC Angkor by Avani Hotels, Siem Reap, Cambodia

Ta Prohm temple, Siem Reap, Cambodia

FIRST CLASS

Angkor Wat is the world’s largest religious structure. Today it stands as a faded version of its once glorious self, but is awe-inspiring nevertheless.

My favorite temple, Ta Prohm, was both romantic and haunting as fig, banyan, and kapok trees entwined their enormous limbs around the ancient stones—simultaneously holding the temple together and tearing it apart. I left with feelings of awe and admiration for the Khmer people.

Our hunger for history sated, we headed for lunch at HAVEN, where “helping tastes good.” HAVEN is a social enterprise and training restaurant for vulnerable young adults. Students learn valuable work and life skills while patrons are treated to delicious cuisine. This was my favorite meal of the trip—the banana flower salad and fragrant curries were divine. Founder and Swiss native Paul Walliman was the consummate host and with each bite, you feel the love he has for this country, its people, and the community.

Before heading back to our Avani haven, we explored the creative and cool neighborhood of Kandal Village where contemporary art and creative artisans are tucked between the lively Old Market and leafy French Quarter.

We ended our evening and our trip with the fantastical Phare Cambodian circus. Perched ringside, we were dazzled with Cambodian stories brought to life via theater, music, dance, and acrobatics. It was a spellbinding experience, and the perfect farewell to our Southeast Asian adventure.

If you haven’t visited this part of the globe, what are you waiting for? You already have your itinerary. Book your tickets and pack your bags—magic awaits.

For more information visit, avanihotels.com/en/riverside-bangkok, avanihotels.com/en/luang-prabang, avanihotels.com/en/Angkor-siemreap, laosbuffalodairy.com, havencambodia.com, or pharecircus.org.

Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Cambodia

Monks walking in Angkor Wat, Siem Reap, Cambodia

Queen Elizabeth in Deep Purple Wallpaper, available at Flavor Paper, flavorpaper.com

DYNAMIC DESIGN

Natalie Konstant of Konstant Home designs for modern day.

WORDS BY ALLISON DUNCAN / INTERIORS PHOTOGRAPHY BY

KATHLEEN VIRGINIA

Natalie Konstant. Photography by Katrina Wittkamp, Makeup by Kelly La Banco, Hair by Hanna Oh, Service Bar Salon

As the daughter of architect Paul Konstant, of Konstant Architecture & Planning, Natalie Konstant grew up immersed in the design world and received an education in the subject at a young age. Fast forward to today and that same background is what gives Natalie her edge. As the principal designer of Konstant Home, a full-service interior design firm that originally started within Konstant Architecture, Natalie understands the value in cohesive design and the impact it can have on a space.

“One of the great things about working with Konstant Architecture is that it’s seamless,” she explains. “We can ensure all aspects of the interior design and architecture relate to one another.”

The father-daughter duo joined forces on a recent North Shore renovation—“If you can call it that,” says Natalie, who only recognizes the red brick on the family room’s fireplace from the initial structure— to restore an original neo-classical colonial home in Evanston. The goal? To update the house for a modern-day family of five, including three boys and a dog.

“I use the term ‘new traditional’ when describing my style—modern, yet timeless.

It is really just an honest response to the times and how people are living today,” she says. “This home’s original floorplan was very chopped up and consisted of a lot of little rooms. It lacked flow. The second floor was dormitory-like, with many small bedrooms. The house was meant for lots of staff, with maids’ quarters and a tiny kitchen. It was built for a different time, designed for a more formal way of living.”

Architect Paul Konstant made the space more efficient with an open floorplan, anchored by a large kitchen open to the family room, breakfast room, and screened porch. The architecture was designed to reflect the house’s vintage ... with a few fun

Living room

Guest room bench

upgrades, like a full-size basketball court in the basement. For the interiors, Natalie worked to achieve a balance between formal and family-friendly, making sure that all selections were conducive to an active lifestyle, while still responding to the original aesthetic.

“What we’re doing is so intimate,” says Natalie. “We’re creating spaces for people to live their lives in. So, while it’s our job to make it beautiful, it also has to function and work for their lifestyle.”

The homeowners took Natalie to the Ralph Lauren showroom in Chicago, where they found inspiration in the store’s grasscloth wall coverings, sisal stair runner, signature plaids, roll arm sofas, oversized tufted wing chairs, and brass nailhead trim. While many of these aspects were incorporated in the design, “It was really the warmth and coziness in such a traditional setting that they were responding to,” says Natalie. In achieving this, she upholstered traditional silhouettes in textured

indoor-outdoor fabrics that mirrored the look and feel of real wools and linens.

In the kitchen, the warm tones of the red brick fireplace are what led to the selection of the ebony island and mahogany countertop. “It’s that play of texture, material, and color that really bring the space to life,” she adds.

In the master, a custom-designed four poster bed sits in front of bookshelves that allow the owners, who she describes as “avid readers,” easy access for a nighttime

Guest vignette

Master bath

Master bedroom chaise

HOME TOUR

read. The array of books also enhances the room’s otherwise calming palette, which has Benjamin Moore’s Blue Lace paint on its walls and Konstant White molding (the same throughout the entire home). Natalie designed the master bedside tables, set in front of windows, to have two lower drawers and a shelf to ensure they wouldn’t block the room’s light, or what she calls “the best accessory.”

“My dad has always designed every aspect of a house himself,” she notes. “So when a room calls for a particular design, like the master nightstands, I love to create a one-of-a-kind piece.”

While custom design is beneficial when it comes to the function and personalization of a space, Natalie notes the importance of incorporating the old with the new. “There is such a thing as ‘too perfect.’ It can make a space feel sterile,” she explains. For this project, she sourced a vintage fire truck wheel from an Evanston antique store, which hangs above the fam-

ily room sofa, and a game table from Maze Home in Winnetka. “It’s the character of those pieces that really bring the room to life,” she adds.

Another essential to finishing a space, “the owner’s personal items,” says Natalie. Never over accessorizing, she leaves space for the client to add their own personal touches and room for them to grow into. “That’s what really turns a house into a home,” she notes. In this case, that meant hanging a large Richard Misrach photograph, which the client purchased at a gallery during a trip to New York, above the living room sofa. Natalie then complemented the piece with a George Constant—yes, her great uncle—which hangs above the fireplace.

Ultimately, Natalie helped the family build a home that will stand the test of time, one that will never go out of style.

For more information about Natalie Konstant, visit konstanthome.com.

Breakfast room looking south

Master bedroom

FABRIC THAT FITS

Loomcraft Fabric Outlet in Vernon Hills provides custom upholstery solutions for pieces in all rooms in the home. Additionally, Loomcraft is the best place in the Midwest for window treatments and drapery installation.

WORDS BY MITCH HURST

Visitors to Loomcraft Fabric Outlet in Vernon Hills will find more than 300,000 yards of fabric in stock, all priced under $29.99 a yard. Loomcraft is one of six family owned fabric stores across the country that are together one of the largest retailers of decorative fabrics and supplies in the U.S.

While shopping at Loomcraft might seem daunting at first, given the huge selection of fabric, the staff at Loomcraft make it easy by offering customized creation of drapery/window treatments, bedding, headboards, and other upholstery and slipcover services for the home.

“We are a one-stop-shop. You can come in anytime and we will work with you to find the perfect fabric for your home,” says Andrew Frankel, Loomcraft’s head of retail operations. “Then, we handle everything with our fantastic workrooms and you are all set.”

It may sometimes be a challenge for homeowners to envision the right fabric for drapery or bedding for the guestroom, but the staff at Loomcraft bring their expertise to you. They’ll come to your home with swatches and work with you to find just the right color and pattern. Measurements will be precise for customized

drapery or other window treatments to be installed with care by Loomcraft professionals.

As spring approaches, the snow melts, and green grass starts to emerge, homeowners might be motivated to bring a fresh look to the living room, the bedroom or to the entire home. Perhaps some sunnier colors will brighten up the house and make visitors feel welcome. With Loomcraft’s unparalleled selection, there is sure to be something to liven up the house.

With over 30 years of serving Vernon Hills and Chicago’s north suburbs, Loomcraft is a key partner in the region’s business community.

“Whether you are an experienced interior designer or looking to redecorate your home for the first time, Loomcraft is the North Shore’s must-stop-shop for every home decor project,” Frankel notes. “Loomcraft staff are trained and eager to help you design the home of your dreams.”

Loomcraft Fabric Outlet is located at 645 Lakeview Parkway in Vernon Hills, right near the Vernon Hills Police Department, Open 7 days, 847-680-1119, thefabricoutlet.com.

HOME STYLE

10 Mellanni 1800 Collection Sheet Set, available at amazon, amazon.com 11 India Bedding by Matouk, available at Bedside Manor Ltd Lake Forest, 847-295-8370 12 Gretel by Missoni Home, available at Bedside Manor Ltd, 837-295-8370 13 Fitzrovia Decorative Pillow Lifestyle by Designers Guild, available at Bedside Manor Ltd Lake Forest, 847-295-8370 14 Brynn Lamp, available at Hudson Valley Lighting, mitzi.hvlgroup.com 15 Overlook Orchid row, available at CB2 Chicago, 312-787-8329 16 Amoeba Medallion Pillow, available at Jonathan Adler Chicago, 312-274-9920 17 Jericho Dining Chair, available at High Fashion Home, highfashionhome.com 18 X-Bench, available at Jonathan Adler Chicago, 312-274-9920

DESIGN

ZEN OASIS

Interior

designer KIM FLASHNER infuses various elements and colors of Mount Kilimanjaro, the American West, and Asia for a one-of-a-kind home.

WORDS BY ALLISON DUNCAN / PHOTOGRAPHY BY APRIL GRAVES, LIGHT DRAWN STUDIOS

Kim Flashner

Interior designer Kim Flashner, who recently expanded her eponymous firm from Winnetka to downtown Chicago, has executed both residential and commercial interior design projects across the country for more than two decades. But because she keeps her personal style out of her work, believing instead to find inspiration in the aesthetic direction of the client, Kim Flashner looks for ventures where she can provide a unique point of view.

Such was the case in a recent gut renovation of a 5,000plus square-foot Chicago home on West Eddy Street in the Southport Corridor. The homeowners, a young couple with two children, had lived in the house previously before ultimately deciding to tear it down and rebuild something new in the same footprint and location.

Kim Flashner, who has been consulting on the home with the family and Casagrande Architects, stepped in to help with everything from the original plans and hardware selections to built-in cabinetry ideas and, of course, the interior design scheme.

“The homeowners honeymooned in Mount Kilimanjaro and are into nature and hiking,” says Kim Flashner. “Although they have differing styles—the husband is more traditional and the wife skews contemporary—they both wanted to bring the feel of Colorado into an urban setting, so we generally used all-natural materials and lots of Earth tones. Just because you live here doesn’t mean you have to have a Chicago space.”

In the open concept kitchen, dining and family rooms—walls were knocked down to eliminate separation—Kim Flashner used natural stone and wood in components like the neutral-stained cut oak built-ins that extend throughout the entire space and in the live-edge oval-shaped Rustic Trip dining table centered under a recycled glass chandelier. On the couch and an ottoman that doubles as a coffee table, she incorporated blue and gray tones that feel warm and inviting.

In the “formal” living room at the home’s entrance (Kim Flashner describes the couple as inherently informal), light and bright thanks to two-story windows, she created a hub for entertaining versus the traditional living room concept of years past that she believes is “falling by the wayside.” With a dramatic fireplace and four cozy recliners, perfect for a day spent chatting or reading, the tone is set for the rest of the home.

The couple expanded the house’s footprint from three stories to four to add a full basement, complete with a wine cellar, bedroom and bathroom, entertainment area and a playroom for the kids. On the top floor is a bar and a home office with walnut built-ins and on the second floor is the laundry room, kid’s bedrooms and bathrooms and, Flashner’s favorite space, the master bed/bath. Plus, there’s a Zen garden in the backyard.

“The master bath is the focal point of the house,” says Kim Flashner. “For a city home with limited space, sometimes the master bath gets pushed to the side. But, in recent years, people have started taking space from the bedroom and closet to make it more of a standout. Here we used a marble tub enclosure and kept the tub within the shower in one big piece. The bedroom itself is Asian-inspired with pink cherry blossom wallpaper.”

Kim Flashner says they could have accomplished a similar look with porcelain but really wanted the “Zen vibe” of marble. “There’s a big difference aesthetically between using natural carved marble versus man-made,” she says. While upgraded elements like marble and wall-to-wall built-ins are expensive—the homeowners ended up spending triple their original budget on cabinetry—Kim

Flashner believes they’re worthwhile and “make or break” the space. That said, decorating takes time. In fact, Kim Flashner has been working on this home for nearly 24 months and is only just now approaching the finish line.

“Everything in the house makes a statement, which elevated the design and made it fun,” she says. “It wasn’t another project with a stark white European kitchen. I’ve been doing this for 25 years and don’t want to work in just one style. I always like a new element. That’s why I’m still doing this.”

Kim Flashner Interior Design Group is located at 1851 W. Grand in Chicago. For more information, call 847-208-5411 or visit kimflashnerinteriorsgroup.com.

Master bath

LAURA SUMMERS SAYS NO TO NUTS

Laura Summers. Chiara Boni La Petite Robe Jumpsuit and Magda Butrym Jacket, provided by Neiman Marcus Northbrook

SUMMERS ADVOCATES FOR ALLERGIES.

WORDS BY ALLISON DUNCAN / PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBIN SUBAR HAIR, MAKEUP & STYLING BY CONSTANTINE JAMES

hen Laura Summers’ son Wyatt, now 15, was just under two-years-old, he snuck a peanut M&M from a bowl that had been set out for a party. After breaking into hives and struggling to breathe, Summers and her husband A.J. rushed Wyatt to the hospital where he was eventually diagnosed with a severe peanut and tree nut allergy. And when the couple’s daughter Ava, now 14, was born just 13 months later, they had her tested immediately. Turns out, she, too, has the same life-threatening allergies.

Fast forward to today, after a 20-year career in digital media sales for big-name corporations like CBS and Hearst, Summers recently dove back into the workforce as the chief growth officer for Wicker Park-based Spokin, a mobile application and website that aids its users in managing food allergies. The app helps users navigate tricky food labels, find restaurants that cater to their specific needs, explore new cities with curated city guides, and even message other users who share the same allergies or who are navigating a similar experience. The app has the look and feel of Instagram combined with the reviews of Yelp.

“Every three minutes, a food allergy reaction sends someone to the emergency room, and 32 million Americans are affected by life-threatening allergies,” says Summers.

“Spokin tapped into my passion for making life easier and safer for my kids. We manage their condition 24/7, and resources like Spokin make that management so much simpler.”

Summers’ role helped build the app’s user base, secure new partners, and build a roadmap for continued success. Just before Thanksgiving, she helped launch a new feature for Spokin, Verified Brands, which lets participating brands verify their packaging, labeling, facility information, answer frequently asked questions, and more directly in the app.

“Spokin is the only app offering this directly from the manufacturer,” explains Summers. “In the past, people with severe allergies had to contact companies directly. We’ve already heard great feedback, and it’s been incredibly rewarding to be part of launching something new.”

It’s that same entrepreneurial mindset that led Summers to Spokin’s founder and CEO Susie Hultquist, whose oldest daughter was diagnosed with life-threatening food allergies at the age of three. After Summers’ sister sent her Susan Jeffers’ Feel the Fear and Do It Anyway, a self-help book about overcoming fear, Summers tried to start her own business. While it didn’t pan out, that

Wleap of faith put Summers on a path to meeting Hultquist and to potentially finding inspiration for the “next big thing” in the future.

“Susie and I both believe in the power of tech,” says Summers. “Susie ran a $2 billion fund on Wall Street prior to Spokin, and I was in corporate sales for so long, so it’s both incredibly empowering and gratifying for us to be in a category with other trailblazing female founders trying to make change.”

Originally from Colorado and, more recently, San Francisco, Summers never thought she’d end up in the Midwest. She met A.J. on a blind date while he was working as a pilot flying out of Travis Air Force Base in California. After flying in two wars— Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan and Operation Iraqi Freedom in Iraq—A.J. started flying for American Airlines, which led the family to Chicago (specifically, Winnetka) 12 years ago. (Recently, American Airlines led the charge in allergy safety with the announcement that it would stock epinephrine auto-injectors in the emergency medical kits of its main fleet of airplanes, which Summers calls a “game changer.”)

“I never thought we’d move,” says Summers. “After September 11, the airline business changed dramatically, and American Airlines closed its base in San Francisco. We had the choice of Chicago, Miami, New York, or Dallas, and we chose Chicago because I had friends from college here. I love Chicago but I also love the warm weather of California and secretly hope my kids will head west, just so I can follow them.”

While her children grew up, events like birthday parties or playdates caused the family “a lot of anxiety” because of Wyatt and Ava’s allergies. Today, however, apps like Spokin and organizations like Food Allergy Research & Education (FARE), a nonprofit dedicated to food allergy awareness and advocacy, have helped lessen the burden.

Both Summers and Ava are involved with FARE, along with Henry’s Heroes Foundation, an organization that builds awareness and raises funds for children with epilepsy. But, when not working or volunteering her time, Summers practices yoga, her “go-to stress reliever,” often at the 6 a.m. class at Shri Yoga Center in Highland Park or at Yogaview in Wilmette. She and her family also love Guildhall in Glencoe and Mino’s in Winnetka.

With Spokin, Summers no longer has to worry (as much) about her children trying a new restaurant when out and about without her. Instead, she can now focus that energy on manifesting a move to the West Coast, on hopefully starting her own company or, she says, on continuing to help promote the Spokin app as the go-to source for people with food allergies.

For Summers, the sky’s the limit.

Dr.

Matters of the HEART

Pediatric heart surgeon DR. CARL BACKER brings hope for the littlest hearts.

WORDS AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY MONICA KASS ROGERS

It was the day after Christmas, 2007, a blustery Chicago morning. Dr. Carl Backer was heading to Children’s Memorial Hospital (now the Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago) to perform a heart transplant on baby Fintan Schiltz. Grabbing a coffee on the rush to the hospital, Backer glimpsed the cover of the Chicago Sun Times

“There was Fintan, in a story about his family’s desperate hope for the miracle of a new heart. And here I was, on my way to perform the surgery,” says Backer. “I’ll never forget it. The donor heart call came right before that story appeared, just hours after Cardinal Francis George had made his Christmas visit to the hospital, and given Fintan a blessing.”

The next day, in his morning coffee queue, Backer saw another Sun Times cover, this one emblazoned: “Baby Fintan gets his heart!” with a photo of Backer and his team conducting the intricate, successful surgery.

“The satisfaction that comes from seeing a child come through this, and then watching that child go home with his or her family with all that behind them ... it makes a deep impression,” says Backer.

For Backer, who has performed an astounding 300 pediatric heart transplants in the last 30 years, giving children a shot at a healthy life has been at the heart of his existence. That Backer, who resides with his wife Julia and their four children in Winnetka, became a surgeon, has its roots in his childhood. Backer’s father was an eye surgeon who served with the Navy in Seattle and Florida, before settling back in Minnesota. “He was an ophthalmology resident in Rochester,” says Backer, who, as a boy, made rounds with his dad to visit patients. By high school, he would scrub in with his dad on some surgeries, to observe. “I knew by that point that I wanted to become a surgeon,” he recalls. “It seemed a very worthwhile profession, to see people who were sick and then to have a hand in helping them get better.”

Backer studied first at Northwestern University where he got his B.A. He then completed medical school at Mayo Medical School—an epicenter of congenital heart surgery origins. He returned to Chicago for his internship and residency in cardiothoracic surgery, coming to Children’s Memorial Hospital for his

fellowship, and then, longtime career.

In the United States, just over 30,000 patients undergo heart surgery each year, and less than 1,000 of those surgeries are heart transplants. Successful outcomes for those surgeries rest on a host of factors, from the provision of a healthy donor heart to the complicated logistics that have to happen very quickly while the clock is ticking, to the vast team of experts required to get tiny recipients through the surgery and recovery.

Building the teams and the expertise to do pediatric heart transplants, started a long time ago. The first successful neonatal heart transplant was done in 1985 by famed surgeon, Dr. Leonard L. Bailey, in Loma Linda, California. Three years later at Children’s Memorial, Dr. Backer flew to Texas to get the donor heart that Cardiovascular-Thoracic Surgery Chief Dr. Farouk Idriss, transplanted into 18-month-old Shavell Arnold—the first pediatric heart transplant in Illinois. Staying on as part of the team at Children’s, Backer worked in tandem with Dr. Idriss, and then with Dr. Mavroudis, who replaced Idriss in that role in 1990.

“We were on call 24/7 doing surgeries—in the beginning, about five to ten pediatric heart transplants a year,” says Backer, who became chief of the division in 2008.

With each pediatric transplant and heart surgery Backer and the team at Children’s Memorial completed, the crucial base of knowledge and understanding of the intricate procedures grew, forming the solid base upon which successful outcomes rest. At the same time, the hospital built the critical mass of specialists to take care of these very challenging patients—not just the transplants but everything leading up to the surgery, and then the care afterward.

“Technically, it’s extremely challenging,” Backer explains. The tissues of a newborn heart are very delicate. The surgeons use specialized instruments, wear magnifying glasses and head lamps, and use surgical suture filaments fine as silk. In addition, “You have to have a lot of resources ... transplant cardiologists, pathologists who can read biopsies, immunologists, infectious disease experts, and more, on the care team,” he notes.

Lurie Children’s, which replaced Children’s Memorial in 2012, is now the only medical center in Illinois that conducts pediatric heart transplants. Nationwide, Lurie Children’s is ranked as

the number two center in volume of children’s heart transplants performed each year. As leaders in the field, Backer and his team have shared their knowledge in forums such as the Congenital Heart Surgeons’ Society, and multiple books. (Backer is currently editing the fifth edition of Pediatric Cardiac Surgery.) With Lurie Children’s new Stanley Manne Children’s Research Institute in place to fuel new medical research in conjunction with Northwestern University, the potential for the development of cures, procedures, and devices, suggests that Lurie Children’s contributions to pediatric heart surgery, and children’s health in general, will continue to grow.

As if to illustrate the advances research can bring, Backer, who became Lurie Children’s Chief of Medical Philanthropy in 2018, places a walnut-sized object in my hand. “That,” he says, “is the exact replica of a neonatal heart.” It is tiny, unimaginably delicate. Then Backer hands me an even tinier, button-shaped disc. “And this,” he says, “is the smallest mechanical heart valve made. It’s been in the works for more than 10 years, and we’ve been working with the team that developed it. We have put this into babies as young as three to four months of age.”

“But frankly,” says Backer, gesturing to an array of ventricular assist devices, at his side, “even though these are better than what we used to have, they are still not perfect, and improved devices are needed.”

The holy grail, in Backer’s opinion, would be the invention of an artificial heart (mechanical or genetically engineered) for children that would make the need for human heart transplants obsolete.

While such a heart does not yet exist, Backer is hopeful. Currently, in addition to performing transplants, Backer places a lot of his energy into raising research funds that make such miracles reality. Lurie Children’s Vision 2025 campaign—a push to raise $500 million—will gather funds that will go to advance pediatric medicine and science through research, and care for more children, in addition to other objectives.

“We raised a lot of money to build Lurie Children’s,” says Backer. “Now, we need to ensure that we have the right experts and resources for the research to create not only new devices, but cures for diseases, and, to do community outreach.” In summary? “We don’t want to just treat sick kids, but to keep kids from getting sick in the first place,” Backer concludes. “The Chicago area has amazing philanthropists who understand the importance of this. The fact that we have such a great hospital is testimony to that.”

For more information on how to support Lurie Children’s Vision 2025, visit luriechildrens.org/en/ways-to-help.

“NOW, WE NEED TO ENSURE THAT WE HAVE THE RIGHT EXPERTS AND RESOURCES FOR THE RESEARCH TO CREATE NOT ONLY NEW DEVICES, BUT CURES FOR DISEASES...”

Julia and Carl Backer

CONTEMPORARY HOMES. ICONIC ARCHITECTURE.

tribunetower.com 312.967.3700

All floor plans shown are for illustrative purposes only. Floor plans may not depict final design of units as constructed and may not be drawn to scale. All sketches, renderings, architectural models, materials, plans, specifications, terms, prices, conditions and statements, including estimated timeframes and dates, contained herein are proposed only and are not intended to constitute representations. Developer reserves the right to make modifications in its sole discretion and without prior notice. All photographs and renderings are merely intended as illustrations of the activities and concepts depicted therein as interpreted by the artists. Developer makes no representations regarding any view and/or exposure to light at any time including any existing or future construction by either owner or a third party. Square footage and ceiling heights are approximate and may be based on various measurement methodologies, subject to construction variances and tolerances, as well as redesign, and vary from unit to unit (and may vary from floor to floor). This brochure shall not constitute a valid offer in any jurisdiction where prior registration is required and not yet fulfilled. Where used, developer shall mean Tribune Tower West (Chicago) Owner, LLC and its affiliated entities and their respective managers, members, directors, shareholders, partners, agents, affiliates and employees. Developer License #2556130.

DL# 2556130

WORDS BY ALEXA BURNELL PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBIN SUBAR

BLOOMING AMBITION

Everything is coming up roses for Winnetka’s Allison Cassato and Michelle McKenna who recently took a leap of faith by taking ownership of the former Chestnut Street Florist in August of 2019.

Cassato’s right-brained creativity in partnership with McKenna’s left-brained sensibility makes their business—Chestnut Street Flowers—one that blends artistry with unmatched customer service. Best of all, the meeting of the minds means that similar to the business, each woman is flourishing.

For Mckenna, the day-to-day bookkeeping is enhanced by the beauty that flowers bring. “Running a business is one thing, but learning about the world of plants is a whole new experience,” McKenna shares. “Thankfully, I have the best teacher and have learned so much about how and why certain flowers pair well with one another. There is so much more to this business than I ever knew. Each and every day, I tap into my imagination and learn something new which is incredibly fun.”

For Cassato, the chance to be in charge has been life-altering for this creative type. “I feel so fortunate to call this space my own. I have spent years teaching local floral design classes and running my own garden container business. The experience, however, of being at the helm of my own brick and mortar space and learning how to

run a business has been nothing short of amazing,” Cassato shares. Each week, the pair spends a great deal of time sourcing unique antique vases and containers to store their picture-perfect blossoms. They are believers in the power of the premium flower, making bi-weekly trips to wholesalers, discovering how flowers across the globe add joy to one’s home.

“I love the whole process. When I visit the wholesaler, I get to see what’s special and what is in season. I never tire of seeing what comes from different parts of the world; I can’t wait to get back to the store to begin arranging what I’ve found,” Cassato exclaims. “I typically start with a focal flower, adding greenery for height and dimension. I love spray roses and look for unifiers to tie it all together. Best of all, our business makes people happy. Whether someone just wants to pop in and ask us to put together the perfect bouquet or talk about floral arrangements for a special event, the job is always fun.”

As for customer service, Cassato and McKenna even make home deliveries, adding a personalized touch that is seldom offered these days. Deliveries often turn into a chance to reconnect with neighbors and friends, bringing cheer and joy along with beauty to each and every interaction.

Chestnut Street Flowers is located at 547 Chestnut Avenue in Winnetka. For more information, visit chestnutstreetflowers.com/home.

When a passion for florals turned into an opportunity for a new beginning, best friends Allison Cassato and Michelle McKenna decided to take their chances to see what would bloom and grow.

Allison Cassato and Michelle McKenna

LIVING & GIVING

PEOPLE, PHILANTHROPY, AND EVENTS

The Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago raised a recordbreaking $6 million at its annual benefit. PAGE 92

BRUSHES WITH CANCER GALA, PAGE 93

Twist Out Cancer hosted more than 600 guests during its annual Chicago benefit, unveiling new works of art inspired by 37 Inspirations in 2019.

MOONLIGHT MASQUERADE, PAGE 94

Guests dined under a canopy of lights and florals during Winnetka Community Nursery School’s masquerade-themed fundraiser.

BREAKTHROUGH BALL: LIGHT THE PATH, PAGE 96

The Women’s Board of the University of Chicago Cancer Research Foundation raised more than $2.2 million for cancer research.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARCELLO RODARTE

Anne Kaplan, Cari Sacks, Dia Weil

& LIVING GIVING

MCA’S 2019 BENEFIT ART AUCTION

mcachicago.org

The Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago (MCA) raised a record-breaking $6 million at its annual fundraiser sponsored by Sotheby’s. Cochaired by Cari B. Sacks and Kenneth C. Griffin, the evening featured bold red and bright white colors accented by artists’ names in the lobby leading to the MCA’s sculpture garden. The 400 guests in attendance were truly immersed in the museum’s contemporary artworks, inspiring a lively auction with the highest winning bid of the night being $1,150,000 for the 2018 painting “Untitled” by American artist Richard Prince.

PHOTOGRAPHY

Larry Gagosian, Kenneth C. Griffin

Eric & Liz Lefkofsky Marilyn Fields, Nick Cave

Cari B. & Michael Sacks Anne Kaplan, Dia Weil

& LIVING

BRUSHES WITH CANCER GALA

twistoutcancer.org/brushes/chicago bulbul

Twist Out Cancer hosted more than 600 guests during its annual fundraiser at Moonlight Studios. The sold-out evening served as the grand unveiling of artwork that was created by accomplished artists paired with their Inspirations—previvors, survivors, fighters, and caregivers. This year’s event featured 37 Inspirations as well as celebrity guests and entertainers touched by cancer.

Dan Hindin, Erica Moore

Rebecca Whitener, Davey Turok

Andrew Edelston, Gudrun Snyder, Jenna Benn Shersher, Mardi Kaplan

Ashley D’Amico, Hilary Rikower

& LIVING GIVING

A + M WINNETKA SHOW PREVIEW PARTY

thewinnetkashow.com

Guests from all over the Chicago area seized the opportunity to preview exquisite home furnishings, artwork, clothing, and jewelry during a preview party hosted by the Woman’s Board of the Community House of Winnetka. The Antiques + Modernism Winnetka Show (A + M) was chaired by Elyse Hahner and Kim Ronan and featured more than 40 nationally recognized dealers.

MOONLIGHT MASQUERADE

winnetkacommunitynurseryschool.org

Guests at Winnetka Community Nursery School’s masquerade-themed fundraiser dined under a canopy of lights and florals designed by Flowers by Katie Ford, bid on one-of-a-kind experiences, and danced the night away to the tunes of D’lite Duo. Items auctioned off to benefit the school included a downtown date night at the Thompson Hotel, club seats for a Chicago Bears game, and “teacher treasures” including a sensory walk at the Chicago Botanic Garden, and more.

PHOTOGRAPHY

Melanie Panchal, Ronnie Noethlich

Laura Glick, Sarah Boulos, Katie Flanigan

Becky Stilp, Kathryn Mangel, Lee Thinnes

Kim Ronan, Elyse Hahner

PHOTOGRAPHY

Josh & Natalie Earnest

Jenna Downing, Maro Zrike Danny & Maggie Abramson

Meagan Holliday-Smith & James Smith

THE CURATED HOME BEGINS HERE

Beauty and detail result from thoughtfulness and planning. Professional interior designers guide you through your design project coordinating furnishings, drapery, floor and wall coverings, lighting and accessories to create your dream room. The possibilities are endless – the quality, impeccable. Schedule a consultation in-store or at home today.

& LIVING GIVING

BREAKTHROUGH BALL: LIGHT THE PATH

uccrf.uchicago.edu/womens-board

Co-chairs Elizabeth Luttig and Elizabeth Eugenio hosted by the University of Chicago

Cancer Research Foundation (UCCRF) Women’s Board’s 53rd annual Breakthrough Ball, raising more than $2.2 million for cancer research. The evening had more than 500 civic and philanthropic leaders in attendance and featured several inspiring moments including a powerful dinner performance where the lights were turned down low and a single singer began a powerful performance of “This Little Light of Mine.”

AUX PORTES DU PASSÈ

evejewelry.com

Fans of local jewelry designer, Eve Alfillé, turned out for an afternoon with the artist and unveiling of her newest collection, Aux Portes du Passé. Guests enjoyed champagne and hors d’oeuvres while perusing the artists collection inspired by the “Belle Epoque” period of French history. Stunning pieces feature color and light elements inspired by Alfillé’s summer travels through France.

Michael Werner, Linda Levin, Jill & Lee Pollock

Annemette Clausen, Elizabeth Luttig, Annette Carroll

Kimberly Duchossois, Larry & Margaret Benjamin

PHOTOGRAPHY

Sarah Pooler, Christine Reimers

Becky Arden, Eve and Diane Alfillé

Barbara Parker and Molly Curley hosted North Shore guests for a holiday peek of their fine jewels. Guests perused the carefully created pieces while chatting with the makers at Deer Path Inn and sipping champagne.

Genevieve Dolan, Molly Curley, Emma Faucher

Molly Curley with Charlotte and Rosie

European Swim by Bra Size

LONG-TERM EFFECT

WORDS BY MITCH HURST / PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBIN SUBAR

North Shore high school students who have benefitted from Academic Approach services in their Winnetka and Highland Park locations are well aware of the company’s one-on-one test prep for the ACT and SAT exams. What they might not know is that Academic Approach is the preferred test preparation vendor for Chicago Public Schools, preparing thousands of CPS students for their tests as well.

“No one approaches test preparation quite like us,” says Matthew Pietrafetta, Ph.D., Academic Approach’s founder and CEO. “For 18 years, we’ve been focused on providing effective preparation as well as equity and access to a broad range of students throughout Chicagoland.”

Founded in 2001, Academic Approach is the antidote for “drill and kill” test prep. Rather than teaching specifically to the tests, Academic Approach provides more well-rounded, skills-based training that teaches vital academic and critical thinking skills.

“When students learn essential college readiness skills, both their scores and grades increase,” Pietrafetta says. “Unfortunately, most test prep focuses on tips and tricks but doesn’t teach much of lasting academic value.”

The idea to launch Academic Approach was born out of Pietrafetta’s experience as a Ph.D. student at Columbia University in New York City. He was teaching logic and writing to freshmen, and it occurred to him that he was conveying knowledge students could and should possess prior to their college years.

“If you’re 16 or 17 and you want to attend a rigorous college program, you’re going to have to argue and write for demanding faculty who won’t accept poor reasoning or grammar,” he says. “If you master the most high-impact skills, you’ll be able to post impressive ACT and SAT scores as well as reason and write with discipline and sophistication at a college level.”

Undergirding Academic Approach’s two-pronged mission— helping individual students and working with school systems, administrators, and teachers—is a robust curriculum developed for students with varying levels of academic experience and success.

“As an educator I saw a clear relationship between what was assessed on the standardized tests and what skills teachers were instructing in the classroom,” says Pietrafetta. “I thought we could put our heads together and collaborate.”

It was initially a tough sell.

“A lot of teachers think test prep is bad—that it’s not really teaching, or only for the wealthy,” Pietrafetta says.

Over time he built bridges with Chicago Public Schools and other districts and was able to show how Academic Approach can help prepare students not just for tests but for college and career success. What the company provides is critical in states like Illinois that have mandated testing requirements.

The company has expanded over the past 18 years and now also

works with the Detroit Public Schools. In addition to its Lincoln Park headquarters, Academic Approach has offices throughout Chicagoland and on the East Coast.

This growth and the ongoing collaborations with public schools show that the vision Pietrafetta had back at Columbia University for Academic Approach was rooted in an innovative, sound idea.

“We want our students to graduate successful and independent problem-solvers, no longer needing tutorial,” he says. “In the end, students take these tests themselves. Our job is ultimately to help them no longer need us.”

Academic Approach is located at 144 Green Bay Road in Winnetka, 847-521-4956, academicapproach.com.

Academic Approach prepares students for college entrance exams by providing instruction that helps both on and beyond the exam.

Founder and CEO Matthew Pietrafetta, Ph. D and Director of Client Services Andrew Ferguson

CARING FOR YOUR PARENTS AND FAMILY

WORDS BY CHIRAG PATEL, MD PHOTOGRAPHY BY FRANK ISHMAN

Ihave been practicing for over 20 years, focusing primarily on geriatric medical care. One common theme I have noticed is the stress, sons and daughters go through caring for their aging parents.

Part of my job is diagnosing diseases, making treatment recommendations, and guiding patients through the path to feeling better. More importantly the other part is advising and helping families navigate the complicated health care system, manage expectations, and hopefully improve outcomes. Here are some of the challenges I encounter on a day to day basis in my practice.

Don’t ignore warning signs. If you notice something about your parents medically related, seek medical advice sooner rather than later. It is always better to know things early in a disease process, which can affect the prognosis. Balancing time to care for your family, career, and parents can be very challenging. As folks slowly lose their abilities, logistics, and emotions become the focus. Most of you won’t have the experience with these situations until you are dealing with your own parents.

The geriatric population sometimes doesn’t make it easy to help them as they try to hang on to their independence. They may not share medical issues, and this can complicate your ability to help. It is tough han-

including keeping them entertained and not bored. Having intellectual stimulation and regular activities in their life is vital to their quality of life and maintaining independence. Taking the car keys away can be a very traumatic moment for them and you.

On top of this, while caring for your parents, knowing aspects of the health care system can be complex and frustrating. Everything from insurance coverage, medication charges, equipment paperwork, and making sure they are safe in their living environment creates tremendous stress and anxiety. Many services like home health care, hospice, and physical/occupational therapy are important, when utilized in the proper and timely way.

Finally, over the years, I have realized that it takes a team approach to help the geriatric population like our parents. This includes not only the physician, but great staff at senior housing locations, visiting nurses and therapists, family members, and even others in the community. Working together as a team and having great communication with families, has really made a difference for patients in my practice.

Hansa Medical Groupe has offices at 5250 Old Orchard Road, Suite 300, in

SPECIAL NEEDS ADVOCATES

WORDS BY MITCH HURST / PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBIN SUBAR

There may be no more frustrating experience for parents than being unable to successfully advocate for their children. Whether it’s not getting the right services at school or dealing with the legal system, parents of children with special needs have few places to turn for support.

Attorneys at Northbrook-based Hansen & Cleary bring decades of experience working with children with special needs to help families facing important educational, health, or legal challenges.

“We advocate for children who need special education services or who need to have their educational services improved,” says Lara Cleary, a partner at the firm.

Cleary and her partner at Hansen & Cleary, Jennifer Hansen, pride themselves on a personal approach to their practice. Many of the firm’s clients live on the North Shore and the attorneys have a deep knowledge of the schools, health, and legal systems in the region. It’s likely they’ll already have a relationship with officials who might be involved in their clients’ cases.

Cleary always wanted to work with individuals with special needs and started her professional career as a special education teacher in the Chicago Public Schools before attending law school. Both of Hansen’s parents worked in the education field and aided people with disabilities, so she grew up around people with special needs. Hansen and Cleary started practicing law together in 2005 and launched their current firm in Northbrook in 2017.

Because of their backgrounds, the two attorneys bring a unique perspective to their work with clients. As an educator, Cleary learned firsthand of the challenges faced by those with special needs and their families.

“We are extremely responsive to our clients,” Cleary says. “We definitely have a level of empathy and understanding and are very accessible. We really want to help get clients where they need to be.”

The approach to their practice was well-designed from the outset.

“We thought really hard about what we wanted our firm to be,” Hansen says. “We recognize that who we’re dealing with are children. Parents already have so much stress and we’re trying to alleviate that so they can work collabortively with their school districts in the future.”

In addition to providing legal services to children and their families, Hansen and Cleary also represent mental health practitioners who may be facing legal issues or issues related to professional licensing. Their knowledge of the law and licensing requirements is a major asset for those clients. They also have extensive litigation experience.

“We’re not afraid to litigate,” Hansen says. “Clients want to hire professionals with a lot of litigation experience.”

While unmatched knowledge and experience are keys to Hansen and Cleary’s success, it’s bringing both head and heart to their practice that most benefits clients.

“We like to problem solve and offer a solution,” Hansen says. “It’s not fun to hire an attorney and we want to make the process as painless as possible. We just want to help and make it better for our clients.”

Hansen & Cleary, LLC is located at 555 Skokie Boulevard, Suite 250, in Northbrook, 847-715-2801, hansencleary.com.

Attorneys at Hansen & Cleary bring a deep knowledge of the law regarding special needs education to advocate for clients and their families.

Lara Cleary and Jennifer Hansen

Publisher’s Profile

WORDS BY STEVEN BLOCH, M.D.

Plastic Surgery Update: I HATE EXERCISING

Ido it but I hate it. What if you could achieve the results while lying down? Interested?

We are excited to introduce CoolTone to our practice. This technology will bring a new dimension to help patients achieve their body contouring goals of improving muscle strength and tone.

CoolTone is the latest device to be introduced by CoolSculpt the leader in non-invasive fat reduction. CoolTone’s magnetic muscle stimulation or MMS technology penetrates the muscle layers and induces involuntary muscle contractions. The body’s response to these contractions is to strengthen its muscle fibers resulting in improved muscle conditioning. After treatments, the abdomen will be firmer and have a more defined and toned appearance. Buttocks will have a more toned appearance and will be firmer.

CoolTone has 50 percent more magnetic intensity than the leading competitor. With the backing of Allergan, I expect it to become the gold standard.

Typical protocols are four sessions over a two week period. Results are immediate. There is no downtime. CoolTone can be combined with CoolSculpt or after liposuction to achieve that athletic toned appearance. CoolTone can also be a standalone procedure in that individual who is already in good shape but wants more definition.

Typical treatments only take a half-hour. As part of our introduction of this exciting technology, we are offering it at a substantial discount.

For additional information visit our website skindeepmedicalspa.com or to schedule a consultation call Skin Deep Medical Spa in Highland Park 847-432-0426, or Glenview 847-901-0800.

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BodyByBloch bodybybloch Steven Bloch MDBodybybloch

LOVESPEAKS

SALLY LOU LOVEMAN is connecting with audiences and debuting a new book.

WORDS BY ALLISON DUNCAN / ILLUSTRATION BY ROBERT RISKO

How would you start your story in 10 words or less? What are the words you would choose to capture who you are and the purpose of your life? ose are the questions Sally Lou Loveman poses to the audience of lovespeaks, the business she founded to connect audiences with their greatest talents and to design professional and personal experiences that embrace innate joy. e purpose? To connect truth, talent, and a life’s work.

Loveman should know: She’s spent a lifetime doing what she loves. At just 14-years-old, after sitting in the audience with her mother during a taping of e Mike Douglas Show, Loveman discovered her passion for television. “I spotted a girl with a clipboard and a headset who looked o cial. I didn’t know what she was doing, but this was 1976 and she was a woman and it looked cool, so I knew I wanted to do it, too,” Loveman recalls.

When she started as an audience coordinator with e Oprah Winfrey Show in 1987, a year after the show went national, she knew she had landed her “girl with the clipboard,” moment.

In 1991, she took a break, had three children, and freelanced for the next decade. Until, in 2003, an audience producer job opened up, perfectly suited to her interest in working with people and one in which she would stay until 2014.

“I grew up there,” says Loveman. “What happened in that building was pure magic. I would sometimes work 15 hours a day, but I loved it so much that I felt sel sh. It’s no accident that all three of my children now work in entertainment. My daughters have both sent me photos holding their own clipboards.

Once you work for Oprah, it’s hard to work for anyone else. Unless of course, that person is yourself. When Oprah ended after its 25th season, Loveman stayed on for a few more years before taking the skills she had learned to launch lovespeaks, which started as a speaking and speaker workshop business and is now soon-to-be Loveman’s debut book, Speak: Love Your Story, Your Audience is Waiting

“Oprahwas very participatory,” says Loveman. “We wanted the audience to feel both connected to her as well as to each other.

e book is the same. With each chapter, the reader has a prompt to do something related to the lesson. Because before we love our story and speak our story, we should know how to start our story.”

Loveman describes the book as a love letter to the people who helped her listen to her heart and gave her a stage to use it, people like her parents, siblings (she’s one of three girls) and, yes, Oprah. She’d been loosely working on Speak for ve years but, in 2018, promised herself to nish it after nding inspiration in Michelle Obama’s memoir. Alas, she dedicated the book to her father.

“When you’re in your purpose, fear has no access,” explains Loveman. “If my message lands on someone else’s heart, then I’m good. I’m satis ed.”

For more information, visit lovespeaks.com.

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