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The St. Regis logos are the trademarks of Marriott International, Inc ., or its affiliates. The Residences at The St. Regis Chicago are not owned, developed or sold by Marriott International, Inc. or its affiliates(“Marriott”). The developer of the residential project, Parcel C LLC,Dev License #2418452, uses the St. Regis marks under a license from Marriott,which has not confirmed the accuracy of any of the statements or representations made about the project. If this license is terminated or expires without renewal, the residential project will no longer be associated with, or have any right to use, the St. Regis tradenames or trademarks. Sales by Magellan Marketing Group.
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Ultra-luxe Gold Coast building with city and lake views and outdoor space! 3,900 sq ft of custom-designed finishes throughout. Christopher Peacock kitchen with white marble island and fantastic natural light. Informal dining in the eat-in kitchen. Oversized westfacing terrace with views of the lake! Huge primary bedroom with marble bath and great closet space. Second bedroom with updated ensuite bath. Library + den and an additional terrace offer multiple spaces to relax. Laundry room plus 2 garage parking spots included! Best Gold Coast location close to the lake, Oak Street and Latin School!
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Luxury boutique living at The Residences at 900! This perfectlyappointed 3800+ sq ft home offers fabulous east views of the lake and city through expansive floorto-ceiling windows. A gracious floorplan allows for open living spaces, plus great natural light throughout! This location cannot be beat with high-end shopping and dining right outside of your front door! A beautiful garden on the 10th level, twenty-four-hour door staff, concierge service, plus access to Four Seasons Hotel amenities make this the perfect home.
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• Joined Brush Pediatric Dentistry in 2019
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Founder &
J.W. CONATSER
Associate Publisher GRETCHEN BARNARD
Managing Editor MICHELLE CROWE
Senior Fashion
THERESA DEMARIA Style Editor LAUREN DEMARIA Beauty Editor ALLISON DUNCAN
Contributing Editors ELAINE DOREMUS DUSTIN O’REGAN KEMMIE RYAN SHERRY THOMAS MEGAN WEISBERG
HURST
ATRINA WITTKAMP
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Happy New Year! If you are experiencing wanderlust, this issue should help as it is filled with wonderful stops around the world.
First up is London, where Hinsdale’s own Viola Pantuso is an Artist with The Royal Ballet of London. You will love getting to know Viola and if you are headed to London in the next few months, do go see her on stage at The Royal Opera House.
The Clarendon Hills chapter of Infant Welfare Society of Chicago Auxiliary is going Hollywood for their Light Up The Night benefit. Read all about that and plan to join the high rolling fun on January 27, 2022.
Our Country vs. Town section introduces us to Jennifer Holton from Burr Ridge. Jennifer shares her family-friendly outing ideas and insider style tips.
We’re taking two armchair Journeys this month. Visit The Ritz Carlton Bachelor Gulch, where they are celebrating a big anniversary and travel with us to the charming city of Québec.
The turn of the calendar from one year to another sometimes brings big changes. Knowing that January often sees an uptick in people filing for divorce, attorney Morgan Stogsdill offers excellent advice in a Publisher’s Profile
It’s very meaningful to us to share photos of the fundraisers that so many in our communities put incredible effort into planning. Flip through for glimpses of lunches, brunches, and dinner dances in our Living + Giving coverage.
Looking forward to telling your stories in 2023.
Enjoy the pictures, and good reading.
J.W. Conatser
Pelvic organ prolapse
Urinary incontinence
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Generations of local children and teens have participated in Trolls, the ski and snowboarding program at King Keyser. Not many things inspire kids to be up and on a bus early on Saturday morning, but the thrill of being with friends is reason enough to fill several coaches for the eightweek season. This month kicks off the 59th season of Trolls. It’s quite an accomplishment with an incredible roster of alumni skiers. kingkeyser.com
Hinsdale’s Maggie Gerth is the genius behind PROPS LUGGAGE, a carry-on approved roller case with built-in legs. This first-of-a-kind suitcase can serve as its own luggage rack, airport work station, or even a dining table. With travel sometimes bumpy these days, choosing a well-designed bag like this can make a big difference in your trips. Props Luggage is lightweight and designed with a top-lid opening, which makes it easy to pack. propsluggage.com
Does White Lotus season two have you pining for an Aperol Spritz and a plate of pasta with a view of the sea? Add this beautiful book to your library for an afternoon of armchair traveling. The lush photography and lively storytelling perfectly captures la dolce vita. assouline.com
If you’ve noticed your favorite celebrities looking extra beautiful recently, they are likely using AUGUSTINUS BADER at home and having facials from the brand’s facial masseur, Lord Gavin McLeod-Valentine. Professor Augustinus Bader is a globally-recognized biomedical scientist, physician, and a leading expert in regenerative medicine. The brand has gone from insider secret to cult classic in record time because of the incredible results people notice in just 27 days. When the winter cold and wind are leaving your skin looking lackluster, try The Rich Cream. Augustinus Bader is available at Blue Mercury, 21 East First Street, Hinsdale.
is a busy Burr Ridge resident, enjoying life as a wife and mother while maintaining a great sense of fashion.
Mantra? You don’t have to sparkle to shine! You shine bright as yourself. On your reading stack? Lucy Foley’s The Guest List is my current read but I really enjoyed The Paris Seamstress, The Paris Orphan, and Paris Secret by Natasha Lester. Favorite workout? I’m a barre junkie. I was a dancer in a company as a girl. Best grooming tip? Cetaphil! It may be inexpensive but has never failed me. Also, something doesn’t have to match, it just has to go. Guilty pleasure? Gardenscapes on my phone. Early memory? I have amazing memories of spending time in a little boutique in Freeport, IL with my mom. The owner would go on to be a mentor and friend. I adored her! She put my mom in her wedding dress, veil, and other accessories. I wore the same veil, which she adored! Music you love? Well, I’m a child of the 90’s so, No Doubt, Aerosmith, Jack Johnson, Dave Matthews Band. I have always been a Beatles fan. My Dad instilled the love in me and it is stronger now that he is gone. Advice you would give to your younger self? Find your fit (friends, school, job) and fight for it, kindly & smartly.
Your style is? Outdoorsy chic. I just bought a new Carhartt olive and sherpa vest I am obsessed with. I wear it with jeans, cozy sweater, Planone rain boots or my ancient white Sorel originals. Let’s be real, as a mom of three boys, I often end up in flare leggings, a cropped ¼ zip sweatshirt & my Stan Smith’s. Mine have snake print on the back & gold tips on the laces, just to keep the edge. Favorite walk? Chasing kiddos around Harvester Park. They like the tractor in the back, we call it “Frank.” Favorite sounds or soundtrack? I love the ducks splashing in the pond in our backyard. Can’t leave the house without? Aquaphor chapstick, water, and my boys! Place to celebrate? My house, I love entertaining and have done most of my kids’ birthdays at our home. If we go out to celebrate it is usually to Jenn’s Guest House in Willow Springs. Best quick bite or hidden gem? My kitchen or Kirsten’s Bakery. Favorite festival or special event? My husband, some friends, and I just did the first annual Willowbrook Park District “Mug Run” with Black Horizon Brew Company. It was a blast! Best thing about the country? I love our property! To have an acre with a pond this close to the city is amazing. I always feel fortunate how close we are to kid’s school & friends. Worst thing about the country? It’s all great. I grew up spending a good amount of time in the city and lived in the northwest corner of Illinois. Burr Ridge is the happy medium. The perfect day is? We have an RV and my favorite mornings often start there. Quiet, except for the birds & a hot cup of French press coffee. Watching the sun slowly stir everything awake is amazing.
Your style is? Eclectic and a little edgy. I recently had a conversation with my 8-year-old son about art. He asked why I love art but don’t practice. I told him fashion is my art, clothing is my medium. I love creating the right look for the occasion for them and myself. Favorite walk? With the kids, the museum campus along the lake to Maggie Daly Park, through Millenium Park to The Gage and back. If it’s just me, I like the walk from Macy’s State Street (which will always be Marshall Field’s to me) to Water Tower or The Merchandise Mart just as the holiday lights are turning on. Favorite sounds or soundtrack? The bell of the “L” followed by “Merchandise Mart.” Can’t leave the house without? My phone, shades, sanitizer. Place to celebrate? BLVD steakhouse. They have great cocktails, great food. It’s cool, luxurious, and not too loud. Best quick bite or hidden gem? Well, it’s not hidden to us but, Fontionos on Polk has BEST breakfast, hands down, The Bongo Room on North Milwaukee! The bar at The Whitehall is quaint & cozy. Favorite festival or special event? We love Taste of Randolf, it reminds me of being 20-something in the City. It’s our tradition to my kids, nieces, nephews to the Walnut Room at the Holidays. We see the Jolly Man, explore the windows, listen to the sidewalk musicians & make wish lists. It is so wonderful to build on a tradition my parents started. We also take the same crew to Broadway in Chicago shows. We get dressed up, have dinner, and see a show. Shop? Logan Square has lots of cool places. Best thing about town? The Energy. Worst thing about town? The traffic. The perfect day is? I like taking my boys. We start at The Shedd and mosey along the lake to play at Maggie Daley Park. Stop at the “Bean”, lunch at The Gage or Cindy’s and back. I also love a Sunday Funday brunch at The Bongo Room followed by a stroll around the funky vintage shops and cool little boutiques.
It’s easy to get caught up in revamping your wardrobe to fit the season’s latest trends. But between the cut-outs, faux fur coats, and low-rise jeans, the fashion trends may begin to seem overwhelming. When you’re standing in the dressing room trying to determine which item to purchase, let me remind you that jewelry is often what makes and completes an outfit. It’s never a mistake to keep your fashion simple, grab your favorite black sweater or white button-down, and shift your energy to focus on a bold piece of jewelry. From these classic sterling silver and 18 karat gold geometric link bracelets to the bold 18 karat white and gold engraved bombe bands, there’s a jewelry trend to add a little extra flair to any look.
The key is to find a balance between trendy and timeless. First and foremost, if you’re looking to invest in your personal jewelry collection, it’s best to prioritize purchasing pieces that will maintain quality and value.
For more information, visit barbaraparkerfinejewelry.com.
With seven chapters and more than 500 members across the Chicago area, the Infant Welfare Society of Chicago Auxiliary has been doing great things since 1913. The Clarendon Hills chapter is a special part of the organization. The members truly enjoy their work and spending time with one another, embodying the Auxiliary’s description of members as both fundraisers and “friendraisers.”
This dynamic group put luminaria on the map, thanks to member Vi Humphries, who returned from a trip to Mexico in 1965 and sparked a new Clarendon Hills tradition.
You’ll see them on The Witches Ride and enjoying workout classes together, always with a charitable component to the activity. And every year, they shine a beacon in the cold, dreary winter months at the annual dinner dance, Light Up The Night.
This year’s event takes place on January 27, 2023, at the recently renovated and very buzzy Drake Oak Brook. It’s a quick turnaround, having hosted the 2022 Light Up The Night in April, but it feels good to be back on schedule.
“There are so many fun new elements this year, even if you’ve attended for years you are going to be surprised,” says chapter president Michelle Speziale.
“The Hollywood Game Night lends itself to lots of glamorous fun,” says co-chair Danielle McNally.
“Whether you love playing cards, rolling the dice, going head-to-head in golf pong, or simply want an elegant evening of dinner and dancing, this is your party,” adds co-chair Jessica Christensen.
Like everything this vibrant group does,
Light Up The Night raises critical funds for IWS Family Health. This integrated and coordinated clinic serves as a one stop shop for health needs. Families are treated by top professionals in everything from prenatal to primary care, dentistry, optometry, and counseling services.
Children between the ages of two and eight can receive occupational therapy, speech therapy, and participate in a social skills group. These are part of the Child-Centered and Advanced Therapies (CHAT) program in partnership with Lurie Children’s Hospital. CHAT services are bi-lingual and take place in a bright open space that’s outfitted with helpful equipment for bringing out each child’s potential.
Two other standout programs are the AngelBaby prenatal care protocol, which combines traditional one-on-one care with a support group of expected mothers with similar due dates and a welcoming dental department. This comprehensive practice offers everything from routine cleanings to orthodontics, oral surgery to emergency treatment.
These spaces and services benefit from the hard work of the Auxiliary chapters and Clarendon Hills is a top contributor. Light Up The Night brings in big numbers, but these ladies never rest on their laurels. Instead, the benefit chairs and members consistently challenge themselves to offer better auction items, a more intriguing grand raffle goodie, or just a more enticing evening.
This year’s event looks to be very special, definitely one to attend.
Light Up The Night with A Hollywood Game Night will be held on January 27, 2023, at 6:30 p.m. at The Drake, 2301 York Road, Oak Brook. Visit clarendonhillsinfantwelfare.org for tickets.
Jessica Christenson, Danielle McNally, Audrey Less, Jenny Pace
BY MICHELLE CROWE
Viola Pantuso backstage at The Royal Opera House
Of all the childhood dream careers, professional ballet dancer might be the hardest to achieve. Viola Pantuso, who was recently promoted to Artist with the Royal Ballet of London, has made it look easy, as the most dazzling ballerinas do.
Before taking the stage in what she calls, “the most beautiful part of London,” Viola grew up in Hinsdale. with her parents and brother. It’s a supportive family with shared traits of creativity and warmth. “I love Hinsdale. I love my home. I love my fireplace,” she says.
Her ballet studies began at the age of three with early training at Salt Creek Ballet, then the Joffrey Academy of Dance in Chicago.
Her incredible talent and drive took her away from the area. She moved on to The Ellison Ballet Professional Training Program in New York City.
During her time in New York, she attended the Youth America Grand Prix (YAGP) and was awarded the silver prize in the NYC Finals. In 2017 she joined The Royal Ballet School at White Lodge. During her time at the Upper School she was awarded First Prize in the Lynn Seymour Competition for Expressive Dance and in 2021 graduated from The Royal Ballet School. “I was an apprentice and and was one of four dancers invited to join the company.”
As a student, she performed in The Joffrey Ballet’s La Bayadère, Othello and The Nutcracker and American Ballet Theatre’s production of Le Corsaire. While at The Royal Ballet School, she performed the main role in Elite Syncopations and danced in Ashley Page’s Mephisto Waltz for her graduation performance. She also performed in Liam Scarlett’s The Cunning Little Vixen at the Royal Opera House and in Didy Veldman’s Is To Be in the 2020 Winter
Youth Olympics in Lausanne, Switzerland.
This dedicated talent apprenticed with The Royal Ballet’s Aud Jebsen Young Dancers Program in the 2021 - 2022 Season and
entered the company as an Artist in the 2022 - 23 Season. “It’s an absolute dream come true,” Pantuso says, adding, “When I was 11, I was trying to figure out how to get to London.” Now she is “dancing with superstars,” as she says.
The days are long, usually 9:00 a.m. until midnight, with one or two shows each day, plus company class, rehearsals, costume fit-
tings, time for make-up, and all the other details that fill a dancer’s time. “Every day there’s something new,” Pantuso says. This might include class on stage at The Royal Opera House instead of in the rehearsal studio so ballet fans can snap up tickets to observe. Or an occasional “dance with the dancers” event where students can come even closer to greatness.
Only four dancers emerged from the apprentice program with full contract offers. Viola is among the most talented artists in the world. She remains remarkably humble and kind, citing the thrill of working each day in the same space as renowned greats like Dame Monica Mason, who danced with The Royal Ballet and served as its artistic director for many years.
This summer, while the company is on hiatus, Viola will travel to Tokyo, a postponed trip from 2020. Until then, she is excited about the season. “It’s eclectic. I’ll be dancing in Mayerling, Frederick Ashton’s Cinderella, and Balanchine’s Diamonds, among other works.” Viola says.
Those with winter or spring plans to visit London should add a performance to their itinerary tout suite. These are wonderful works made even more special by knowing that this local made more than good. roh.org.uk/about/the-royal-ballet Follow Viola on Instagram @violabella_.
Get your ski glam on and hit the slopes in style this season with a stay at The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch , a luxury Beaver Creek resort that celebrates its 20th anniversary this winter with special events and activities.
WORDS BY SHERRY THOMAS / PHOTOS PROVIDED BY THE RITZ CARLTON BACHELOR GULCHFrom the outside, The Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulch looks like it’s always been there, nestled along towering pine trees and breathtaking Rocky Mountains, almost hidden from view.
Black-and-white photos you’ll see of this soaring, log-cabin-style lodge—located four miles from the Beaver Creek ski mecca—might indicate it was built even before Vail Resorts (which also operates Keystone, Breckenridge, Park City, and many more) began buying and developing ski properties in the area more than 40 years ago.
However, the minute you step inside this magnificent, five-star resort in remote Avon, you realize that everything you’re about to experience from here will live up to the legendary brand that is The Ritz. Since 2002, the property has served as the ultimate escape for skiers and non-skiers alike, with multiple snowshoe hikes, unique access to Beaver Creek Mountain (and now, the newly debuted
McCoy Park terrain), a chic après ski scene, divine culinary offerings, a 21,000-square-foot spa, and a Ritz Kids’ program that includes a Ski Nanny (do we need to say more?)
While there is much to do here even in summer months (imagine access to the finest Vail Valley and Beaver Creek golf courses), this year, it’s all about the winter ski season where the property will put the finishing touches on its recent renovation in time to celebrate a milestone 20-year anniversary.
And yes, you’re invited. Now the only question is, what do you want to do first?
Whether you’re craving the thrill of a black diamond slope or are just along for endless spa treatments and boozy concoctions by the fire, this is a place where you can literally choose your own mountain adventure (ask about the in-room camping). We’ve put together a little guide to help you chart your course.
The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch is notorious for exceptional skiing and the most seamless ski-in, ski-out experience in the region. From the resort’s ski concierge to the vast mountain terrain for all ski levels, it really doesn’t get better than this.
With more than 2,000 acres of diverse terrain, Colorado’s Beaver Creek is perfect for making fresh tracks, riding moguls, or cruising down groomed runs. You are literally within moments of the area’s best skiing for all skill levels. Ski-in, ski-out privileges, an in-house outfitter, a ski and snowboard school, and a dedicated concierge are just a few of the perks of staying here.
The resort also now offers premier access to the newly debuted McCoy Park terrain. The expansion includes 17 trails and 250 acres of ski terrain for beginner and intermediate skiers as well as a family-friendly learning area. And if that wasn’t enough, Vail is just 15 minutes away—offering more than 5,000 acres of skiable terrain, including seven legendary Back Bowls spanning seven miles and three terrain parks to cater to skiers of all levels.
If skiing isn’t your thing, the resort offers many other wintery activities that doesn’t require a lift. There are seven different snowshoe hikes, including select routes that are timely for the season.
Want to admire the silhouettes of the Rocky
Mountains, then the sunset snowshoe hike is for you. If you want to get some (snowshoe) steps in, opt for the village-to-village snowshoe hike—a serene four-mile trek from Bachelor Gulch to Beaver Creek village.
But perhaps the most alluring route (and one you’ll be talking about long after you get home) is a stargazer snowshoe tour that reveals the splendor of the mountains at night under a glimmering sky. That epic experience can be followed by warm signature cocktails in The Great Room, which leads us to our next (and this author’s favorite) category.
Sometimes the best part of a Colorado winter getaway is what comes after you give the skis or snowshoes back to the concierge and settle comfortably for some après ski indulgence.
Even if your “active day” was back-to-back spa treatments, there’s something magical about having everyone come together in the evening around a delicious dinner or round of toasty drinks. Stacked stone, rich wood, nature-inspired artwork, a crackling fireplace, and lounge-worthy seating set the mood for mountain cuisine, barrel-aged cocktails, après ski fare and robust coffee.
Among a diverse array of culinary offerings, WYLD presents
the finest from the valley, displaying bold cooking techniques and seasonal ingredients. Sakaba serves as Beaver Creek’s premier sushi restaurant, offering a menu of fresh sushi, sake, and craft cocktails in an intimate setting. Buffalos elevates gastropub cuisine in a Colorado-forward space with rustic wood and grand stone features, presenting a cozy atmosphere and warming appetites with their famous Bison chili.
For an authentic glam après ski or poolside dining experience, check out the Fireside Bar. Surrounded by mountains and forest, this barbeque restaurant features casual meals and signature cocktails. And then there’s The Great Room, a must-see on your Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulch experience. A grand three-story stone fireplace is the centerpiece of this lodge-inspired lounge, where you can end your evening on a cozy couch with live music and decadent après ski offerings.
What’s up for tomorrow? Maybe it’s time to go back to that spa.
Tucked into the mountain, The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Bachelor Gulch mimics the resort’s stunning surroundings with treatments focusing on mind and body. As a guest, you will also have access to a veritable spa oasis of 19 treatment rooms, relaxation lounges
with steam rooms, saunas, yoga rooms, plunge pools, and a stone-lined coed grotto.
Signature spa treatments incorporate locally sourced herbs, plants, and minerals, and address the familiar body aches you veteran skiers experience after days on the slopes.
The Miner’s Mineral Mud Wrap looks particularly appealing, even if you’ve done nothing all day. This mineral-inspired treatment uses indigenous ore that is hand mixed during the treatment to take you on a rejuvenating journey. Foraged from the depths of Colorado’s mines, activated charcoal mud is renowned for its powerful detoxifying properties. Coupled with amethyst oil, rose quartz salt, and shea butter, this is the perfect recipe for a calm mind and uplifted body. (Did we mention it also includes full body exfoliation, body wrap, scalp massage, hydrotherapy bath, and full body massage ... ahhhh.)
Now let’s talk about the children.
Whether they’re your own littles or the grandbabies, the Ritz Kids program is a lifesaver. Catering to children ages 5 through 12, a full Rocky Mountain regime of memorable experiences full of adventure, creativity, and wellness awaits.
The resort’s beloved Ski Nanny program is also back this winter—a resource as amazing as it sounds.
Kids enrolled in the full-day Beaver Creek Group Ski School will be outfitted in gear by their Ski Nanny as well as escorted to and from their lessons on the mountains.
What this means is you have more time on the slopes, at the spa, or (who are we kidding?) the lounge. Last but not least, because the holidays are here and we’ve been invited to help celebrate a milestone, it’s time for a countdown.
Sounds pretty incredible, no? Maybe we’ll see you there.
For more information about The Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulch, call 970-748-6200 or visit ritzcarlton.com/en/hotels/colorado/ bachelor-gulch. You can also follow the resort on Instagram at @ theritzcarltonbachelorgulch.
WORDS BY DUSTIN O’REGAN
Beloved for its Old World character and charm, Québec City is a Francophile’s dream steeped in 400 years of history. North America’s cradle of French civilization is accessible via a two-hour flight from O’Hare airport (about the same time it takes me to drive to Chicago in traffic). A visit to one of Canada’s oldest cities and the only remaining walled city in North America makes you feel as if you’ve traveled back in time to the elegance of centuries past.
Situated on the cliffs overlooking the great St. Lawrence River, Old Québec, a UNESCO World Heritage site, has a
fairytale essence with its narrow cobblestone streets and gorgeous architecture—think stone facades, grand cathedrals, and steeply pitched roofs. With French (the official language of the province) words dancing in your ears, café tables spilling out onto the cobblestones, and scent-filled bakeries dotting every corner, you can hardly believe you aren’t in the Old World. One of the many things that I absolutely loved was the sense of safety. No matter what time of night, we felt completely at ease strolling arm in arm, without a care in the world. Our laughter and philosophical banter were our only focus (as it should be).
We chose the luxury Auberge Saint-Antoine located in the historic district of Québec. The hotel stands on an archaeological site that has links to every stage of the historic district’s evolution. The hotel’s proprietors, the Price family, have masterfully mixed hospitality with history—creating a luxurious hotel that celebrates the centuries of Québec City. More than 500 archeological items are on display in the public areas, corridors, and rooms. Even a simple elevator trip is remarkable because it takes you through three and a half centuries of history; with each floor representing an archeological layer.
Every suite has a name, a signature artifact, and a story. My cheerful river view room, the “Lacy Glass Room,” incorporates the color cranberry—an ode to a fragment of a delicate glass European lamp sold between 1880 and 1925. In addition to the artifacts, the hotel incorporates stones from ancient French structures and the reception’s counters are made from oak timbers once used in 19th-century wharves. While the hotel celebrates the past, it is also outfitted with the most modern of amenities.
The Price family, with plans to expand, recently purchased the building next door. It was under construction when we visited, but when complete it will offer large suites for VIPs and multiroom suites for families. Celebrities flock to Québec City; the next time Celine stays at the Auberge Saint-Antoine, I suspect she will be quite thrilled with her brand-new accommodations. saint-antoine.com
Overlooking the St. Lawrence River, this charming restaurant was named in honor of Muffy Price and exudes cozy elegance. The original stone walls and wooden beams of this former 19th-century maritime warehouse create a welcoming atmosphere in one of Québec City’s most historically significant buildings. The menu is a brilliant composition of Québec gastronomy focusing on savory flavors and ingredients from an organic farm on Île d’Orléans. The presentation is a work of art, and I highly recommend the duck if it is on the menu.
A fan favorite on Rue Saint-Paul, this charming eatery and a fixture in the Old Port of Québec was named in honor of Mr. Rioux and Mr. Pettigrew who opened a general store in the 1860s. Those gentlemen would have surely approved of the restaurant’s focus on “boreal cuisine,” which uses seasonal products from small local producers and farms to assure quality ingredients. We
opted for the blind-tasting menu and were dazzled by each course and wine pairing.
Interested in a three-hour culinary journey that is out of this world? Then book early at this Québec hot spot nestled between the St. Lawrence River and Place Royale. Reservations are essential because guests are texted the combination to the keyed lock on the restaurant’s front door. As you push open the heavy door, darkness yawns before you. A backlit forest motif emerges once your eyes adjust. A labyrinthian hallway delivers you into a barrel-vaulted stone room where the adventure begins with the first three courses of the 16-course meal.
Before we began our 16-courses, the barman arrived with an isotonic beverage brimming with vitamins to prepare us for the many libations to follow. One of which contained a beautifully frozen blueberry slush that spewed fluffy white smoke when dry ice entered the glass— breathtaking in presentation and taste.
The Tanière3 experience is a blind-tasting, boreal cuisine menu. As every menu is different, I won’t describe each devastatingly beautiful and tasty course. I, however, must describe two
experiences that speak to a truly exceptional level of service and attention to detail. First, after moving into the main dining room for the “dinner” courses, a key was placed on my plate. It opened a drawer in the table where I found a note with my name, welcoming words, and prose inspired by the caviar delicacy that was served next. Later, at the evening’s end, we found ourselves in a magical room resembling an enchanted forest of birch trees. Here we were each given a menu with a gold wax seal—a memento of an unforgettable feast. This bastion of excellence was recently awarded the coveted CAA/AAA Five Diamond designation and should not be missed.
The conveniently located Bar Artefact is the perfect place to enjoy the Auberge Saint-Antoine’s signature drinks. We took a mixology class with head bartender Félix-André and enjoyed a fairly boozy afternoon. My favorite? An Aphrodite cocktail made with lycée liquid, vodka, grapefruit, and ginger. The bar showcases relics unearthed on-site during one of the excavation digs—be sure to visit the cannon and the cannonball still attached to the wood it crashed into eons ago.
Hire a guide (we recommend Tommy Byrne 418-999-7096) for an engaging education about the city’s history and culture. Old Québec
is the most intact fortified town north of Mexico, retaining its colonial architecture for more than four centuries. It is the historic and cultural heart of Québec City and the birthplace of French North America. We began our adventure at the foot of the famed Chateau Frontenac perched just above the St. Lawrence River at what must be the city’s highest point. Here you will find the monument of Québec City’s founder Samuel de Champlain. My favorite neighborhood on the tour was Petit Champlain. I adored the architecture—houses with charming dormer windows, gabled roofs, and wide chimneys. In winter, this pedestrian street is decked from cobblestone to rooftop in all things Christmas. Seeing Notre-Dame-des-Victoires, one of the oldest churches in North America, and the immense Québec City trompe-l’oeil mural gives you a glimpse into the city’s history and culture.
This stunning museum contains three buildings offering a vast panorama of Québec’s art history from the 17th century to the present day. We visited the spectacular Pierre Lassonde Pavilion, which houses the museum’s expansive collection of contemporary art dating from 1960 on. During a fascinating tour, we learned about the “King’s Daughters,” the 800 women who immigrated to Quebec in the 1600s under a program designed by Louis XIV and the controversy that surrounds that bit of history. I can’t wait to return to visit the Charles Baillairgé Pavilion, which occupies a former prison and now uses the cells that once held prisoners to hold art.
Rent a car via volvodequebec.com and visit Île d’Orléans known as “the garden of Québec,” located just a half hour from the city. Spend the day experiencing all that this verdant island has to offer. Start with Cassis Monna et Filles, the winner of many international awards for making black currant products. The black currant, known by Quebecers as “gadelle noire,” is a remarkably fragrant, purplish-black berry originally appreciated for its medicinal qualities. The berry is not only brimming with vitamin C and immune system boosters but also creates incredibly tasty libations. Visit the store downstairs to taste the wide variety of products from wines and liqueurs to vinaigrettes and foie gras mousse. Pop into La Monnaguette upstairs for their famous Poutine—an oddly delicious combination of French fries, cheese curds, gravy, and duck. You’ll need something in your stomach for the rest of the day’s tastings. cassismonna.com
Strøm
For a Nordic spa experience beyond compare, make the short jaunt to Strøm Spa Nordique. This is an ideal spot to experience thermotherapy, a thousand-year-old wellness ritual that uses water for therapeutic purposes. Our treatment began with immersions in glorious, outdoor heated pools followed by a variety of cold plunges all while enjoying river views and birdsong. You could easily spend hours here enjoying the various steam rooms, saunas, and serene relaxation rooms—they even offer gourmet regional cuisine, beauty, and spa services. I could actually live there. One thermal experience I missed is the candlelit indoor flotation salt bath. I am dreaming of going back for this meditative experience. stromspa.com
Next, visit the Isle de Bacchus vineyard for a wine tour and tastings. Founded in 1982 in Saint-Pierre de Île d’Orléans, the vineyard is a pioneer in the history of Québec viticulture and produces red, white, rosé, aperitifs, and liqueurs as well as internationally renowned ice wine. This was my very first introduction to “ice wine,” a beautifully fruity dessert wine produced from grapes that have been frozen while still on the vine. The setting is breathtaking with vines cascading from beneath the main house to the St. Lawrence River. isledebacchus.com
The heart of the island is home to a beautiful orchard, Domaine Steinbach. The orchard, set on the St. Lawrence River, contains 3,000 apple trees and soon will be 100 percent organic. I highly recommend tasting the flight of ciders to witness the scale of flavors. The quaint store offers a delightful array of ciders, jams, butters, and mustards. domainesteinbach.com
Our last stop of the day was OhBio-Ferme Jean Pierre Plante, a pristine farm with the most delicious produce. The certified organic producers, Jean-Julien and his wife, are passionate farmers who take extraordinary pride in their products and have a deep respect for nature—pride and respect you can taste. The farm family has a close relationship with the Price family (owners of the Auberge Saint-Antoine), and the farm’s fruits and vegetables are incorporated into the hotel’s cuisine. ohbio.ca
Take a helicopter ride for a phenomenal aerial view of Québec City, the St. Lawrence River, Montmorency Falls, Île d’Orléans, and the mountains. complexecapitalehelicoptere.com
With so much to experience in this extraordinary city just two hours away from Chicago, why am I not there several times a year? Perhaps that is a New Year’s resolution. For you too? Bon voyage!
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Being a REALTOR® is an opportunity to share my passion for real estate while working alongside clients as they find their dream home, sell their existing home, or buy an investment property.
As a REALTOR®, I have a strong focus on customer service and strive to create a seamless, positive, and concierge-like experience. My clients know that I go above and beyond, treating each client with respect, professionalism, and thorough communication. My goal is to help my clients find the right property tailored to their needs or sell their home quickly and maximize profits. My clients trust me throughout the entire process.
Coming from an executive CFO/CEO background made the transition to REALTOR® an easy step. I’ve worked as an Finance Executive for over 15 years. I love to roll my sleeves up, negotiate, crunch numbers, work hard, have fun, and make my clients happy. I also have a MBA, I am a certified Public Notary, and active member on many associations.
From buying, to selling, to investing, to renting — I HAVE YOUR BACK EVERY STEP OF THE WAY.
Heidi Lapczynska
HEIDI LAPCZYNSKA, REALTOR ® ( 773) 308-3886 heidiL@daprileproperties.com | classyconsulting.us
Salt Creek Ballet invited the community to “Partner With Us” in support of the company’s production of The Nutcracker
The result was a beautiful evening of dinner, dance performances, and lively auctions and raffles. Thanks to generous guests and sponsors, this beloved local treasure looks to be well-positioned for continued success.
saltcreekballet.org
Veronica Norman, Lauren Kavanaugh, Katie Storino, Jennifer Chillo
Sahgal Family
LGErica DeLao & Kristopher Wojtera
Alex Brenneman & Julia Rhoads
Malachi Squires, Ella Backus
Hilary & Mike Sefton
Laura & Jason Bier
Love and the spirit of kindness filled the air as Lutheran Child and Family Services supporters gathered to raise funds for children in need. It is the wish of everyone involved that every child have the opportunity for a safe, happy, and meaningful life. The annual Harvest Festival is a wonderful way to celebrate success and ensure continued support for those who need it.
The Service Club of Chicago gives grants to between 40 and 70 non-profit organizations each year. The group’s 132nd annual gala honored Chicago firefighters and the first female Fire Commissioner of the Chicago Fire Department, Annette Nance Holt. It was a lively evening with supporters raising much-needed funds to do even more good in the community.
theserviceclubofchicago.org
Alex Meneses & Scott Benton
Bob & Peggy Devolse
John & Talena Campanile
Karen Sorbo & Francelino Zau
Nick & Marta Hoffman
Matthew Larkin & Kelsey Christiansen
Walter Schroeder, Commander Annette Nance-Holt, Commander Timothy Northcross Jean Antoniou
Photography by Ian McLeod
Philanthropists Dave and Chris Pequet established this patriotic gala to raise money for the military community. Proceeds benefit Operation Support Our Troops – America and the organization’s wonderful programs like Comfort and Care Packages, G.I. Yoga, and Veteran’s Assistance. Chicago Bears legend Gary Fencik served as master of ceremonies and the Chicago Blues All-Stars had the crowd rocking. redwhiteandblues.org
Photography by Jeff Collier
Keith and Danika Beneger
Jan Hammersley, Shirley Tolbert
Dave and Chris Pequet
Courtney and Kimberly Cager
Ernie and Rosalie Battaglia
Chris and Gretchen Barnard
The Hinsdale Auxiliary of Infant Welfare Society of Chicago goes all out for their annual Baby Shower Luncheon. Members contribute swaddle blankets, baby clothes, swings, toys, and a mountain of diapers and wipes for patients of the IWS Family Health Center. Topaz Burr Ridge serves as a lovely backdrop for this beloved tradition.
hinsdaleiws.com
Photography by Ian McLeod
In just five years, Scoreboard Charities has raised over one million dollars for Camp One Step and Lurie Cancer Center at Northwestern Medicine. $300,000 of that came in 2022 and this evening of shopping, bidding, and donating certainly contributed to reaching that bold goal. The Drake Oak Brook made for a glamorous backdrop for this fashion-forward event.
scoreboardcharities.com
Assistance League of Chicagoland West supports neighbors in need throughout DuPage and western Cook counties. Member volunteers identify unmet needs, structure programs to fill those needs, and raise the funds to deliver quality solutions. Each believes a small gesture can influence a life. Books & Brunch raises money to fund many of these projects. Andrea Thome moderated a lively discussion with featured authors Jill Wine-Banks, William V. Taylor Jr., and Betsy Bird. alcw.org
Julie Curran, Kinzie Farrell, Sue Farrell
Jan McGivern, Maureen Haggerty
Paige Logan, Maria Garino, Linda Slepicka
Joan Hehls, Jennifer Gordon, Janet Roxworthy
Jill Wine-Banks, William V. Taylor Jr., Betsy Bird
Dawn Wood, Gina Pekofske
Shaw Kassab, Tracie Main
Nancy Beth, Catherine Schmidt
Other times, people can’t imagine another holiday season together. When the holidays are over, that’s the time many people take a step back and evaluate their marriage and relationships and what they want for the new year. If they do start thinking about next steps of a divorce, Stogsdill says there are a number of things they should keep in mind.
“It’s important for people in a divorce situation to know that they are not alone, and that the process doesn’t have to destroy their family, it can redefine the family, if done well,” Stogsdill says. “It starts with a good lawyer who’s going to tone everything down and strategize your case. I never start in litigation mode, unless I have to, and that’s very rare.”
She adds that if a case starts off on a good foot with open communication and both the client and opposing counsel are agreeable to working together for the best interest of the family, that creates a positive atmosphere for the case to successfully move forward.
“It’s inevitable that in every matter there are going be issues presented that both parties may not agree on, but it’s my job to be creative and figure out a way to bridge those gaps while still maintaining amicability,” she says.
WORDS BY MITCH HURSTIt’s no secret that filing for divorce can create tension and trying times for couples seeking to separate. Because many couples don’t want to start the divorce process during the holiday season, historically there has been a considerable uptick in divorce filings in January.
Family law attorney Morgan Stogsdill, the Head of Family Law at Beermann LLP, says it’s normal when people are unhappy in a relationship to first look inward at the causes for their unhappiness. Sometimes people think something is wrong with them or their life, when really it’s their relationship.
Stogsdill started her professional career as a trial lawyer and has litigated more than 70 jury trials. That experience serves her well when divorce cases land in court but that’s not her preferred path for clients.
“I don’t think court is the answer for a lot of people anymore. Yes, celebrity divorce cases make for good reading in the media, but I strive for my cases never to end up with a Judge making a decision. I do whatever I can to keep them out of court,” she says. ”But I use my litigation skills every day in my family law practice and I’m not afraid to go to court, when necessary. Not many attorneys practicing family law have the same trial experience.”
Stogsdill migrated to family law from litigation primarily because of the interpersonal relationships she’s able to develop with her clients and their families.
“I want to know what matters to the client and also what’s important to their family,” she says. “We are required to understand all the details and I love that part of the work. I also found that if I know my client well enough and I know how the family operates, generally I can figure out a way to get their case settled amicably.”
Stogsdill’s expertise in family law is fully on display with the podcast she hosts with divorcee, television personality, and former comedian, Andrea Rappaport. The podcast, “How Not to Suck at Divorce,” is equal parts entertaining and informational, and breaks down the divorce process, often in the nitty gritty details. She’s been quoted in The New York Times and Crain’s Chicago Business, which named her one of Chicago’s most influential women attorneys.
What’s most important when an individual is considering filing for divorce, Stogsdill says, is to make sure they are approaching the decision—and the process—from a rational point of view with a clear plan from a capable attorney.
“Nobody should make a rash decision when it comes to their marriage and their children,” she says. “I would never want someone to have regrets or feel like they didn’t do everything they could to make it work.”
Morgan Stogsdill is located at the Beermann office at 161 N. Clark Street, Suite 3000, in Chicago. For more information, call 312-6219700, or visit beermannlaw.com.
At American Family Care, we believe that seeing your primary care physician in a convenient manner is just as important as seeing them for an urgent medical need. Focus on your health in 2022 by scheduling your wellvisit, annual physical, and other primary care services at AFC Willowbrook. We’re open seven days a week with extended hours. Plus, no appointment is needed, so come in when it’s convenient.
