Hinsdale Living, August 2024 by JWC Media

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Source: BrokerMetrics LLC/MRED, 7/1/2023-6/30/2024. #1 market share in Hinsdale based on closed sales volume, residential properties, all price points.

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Brush is now open in Downers Grove!

We are excited to warmly welcome Pediatric Dentist, Dr. Alexa Pulli to the Brush Team. She can’t wait to meet YOUR family!

MEET OUR DENTISTS

American Board of Pediatric Dentistry

• University of Michigan-BA and DDS

• University of Illinois-Chicago MS and Diploma Pediatric Dentistry

• Northwestern University-MBA

DR. ANDREINA

KARMANCHANDI

• Joined Brush Pediatric Dentistry in 2016

• University of Central Florida-BS

• Arizona School of Dentistry-DMD

• Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children’s HospitalResidency in Pediatric Dentistry

• Diplomate ABPD

DR. LYNNA GRIPENTROG

• Joined Brush Pediatric Dentistry in 2014

• University of Illinois-Champaign Urbana-BS

• Southern Illinois University-DMD

• Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital-Residency in Pediatric Dentistry

• Diplomate ABPD

DR. MAGGIE RIZZO

• Joined Brush Pediatric Dentistry in 2019

• University of Michigan- BS

• University of Illinois-Chicago, DMD

• Ann and Robert H. Lurie Children’s HospitalResidency in Pediatric Dentistry

• Diplomate ABPD

WELCOME TO OUR NEWEST MEMBER!

DR.

STEPHANIE

BOLLOW

• Joined Brush Pediatric Dentistry in 2022

• University of Illinois- BS

• University of Illinois-Chicago, DMD, MS, and Diploma Pediatric Dentistry

• Diplomate ABPD

DR. ALEXA

PULLI

• Joined Brush Pediatric Dentistry in 2024

• Boston College-BS

• University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine-DDS

• University of Illinois at Chicago-Residency in Pediatric Dentistry

// THE COMPASSIONATE TRAILBLAZER

Dr. Mira Albert is a great example of always reaching for new goals, she recently earned her MBA, and is expanding her pediatric dentistry practice.

56 // PHILANTHROPISTS, ASSEMBLE

Hinsdale Assembly nurtures the philanthropic spirit of its young members, deepening their commitment to service, community, and family.

// M ONEY MATTERS

The Western Suburb’s leading wealth managers, estate planners, and insurance experts with whom to consult about every financial goal.

// L AW & ORDER

From the state’s largest, most celebrated law firms to boutique practitioners, a trusted directory of attorneys.

Founder & Publisher J.W. CONATSER

Associate Publisher GRETCHEN BARNARD

Editor-in-Chief MICHELLE CROWE

Executive Projects Director KEMMIE RYAN

Contributing Editors ERIN DONALDSON ELAINE DOREMUS

DUSTIN O’REGAN

SHERRY THOMAS MEGAN WEISBERG

Contributing Writers MITCH HURST

Senior Fashion Editor THERESA DEMARIA

Production Manager / Graphic Designer LINDA LEWIS

Advertising Coordinator / Graphic Designer CHRIS GEIMER Graphic Designer SAM SUAREZ

Contributing Photographers JAMES GUSTIN IAN MCLEOD

RUNVIJAY PAUL MARIA PONCE ROBIN SUBAR K ATRINA WITTKAMP

Administrative Assistant CHEYANNE LENCIONI

Advertising Sales JENNIFER STURGEON HOW TO REACH Hinsdale Living Magazine

Advertising inquiries: INFO@JWCMEDIA.COM 630-200-9027

General inquiries: 847-926-0911

Editorial inquiries: 630-270-7991

Editorial email: MICHELLECROWE@JWCMEDIA.COM

On the web: HINSDALELIVINGMAG.COM

Mailing Address: 671 ACADEMY DRIVE NORTHBROOK, ILLINOIS 60062

Hinsdale

EDITOR’S NOTE

In a year that is flying by extraordinarily quickly it’s time to savor every beautiful moment August offers. This issue reflects the bittersweet feeling of time passing, of shifting gears from the traveling and big plans of July, August brings languid dinners at home and fall routines on the horizon.

We are delighted to visit with Dr. Mira Albert in The Compassionate Trailblazer. This incredible woman is expanding Brush Pediatric Dentistry, with a second location in Downers Grove. My own son loved visiting Brush from a young age and was always delighted to see “his dentist” on the sidelines at Falcon Football games. How lucky that even more children will experience the magic of Brush.

Philanthropists, Assemble offers a peek into the Hinsdale Assembly just as invitations are arriving for the newest class of debutantes and honor guards. These young people are in for a year to remember as they complete service projects, spend time with family, and raise funds for the NICU at Hinsdale Hospital.

A lovely connection in the issue is our beautiful Country Vs. Town star, Christine Gebauer, calling out how meaningful she found Hinsdale Junior Woman’s Club’s grant to the Hinsdale Hospital NICU as her younger son spent time there. Christine speaks of the magic of community and it’s lovely to read about the support from many groups of this important initiative at the hospital.

We have some fabulous news in Dinner Date—Petite Vie is open and just as glorious as all the foodies and Paul Vivrant fans have been hoping it would be. Journeys takes us sailing, the quintessential August activity.

Living + Giving is an absolute feast for the eyes this month, filled with galas and neighborhood events that are doing the most good for so many. Special congratulations to Susan and Jim Draddy, who were honored at The Chicago Rita Hayworth Gala for their significant contributions to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Enjoy the month, enjoy the issue, and please be in touch.

Gratefully,

MICHELLE CROWE Editor-in-Chief michelle@jwcmedia.com

STYLE

52 COMPASSIONATE

Find

Talk of the Town

Hinsdale Living’s guide to the area’s people, places, and things that you must know about

“Be the arbiter and instigator of joy.”

— JAMIE VARON

SAVOR THE SUMMER SUNSET

Make August epic at every opportunity. In addition to feasting on fresh corn and juicy farmers market peaches as often as possible, press pause on routine with a special outing or two. There’s something so special about being out on Lake Michigan in the hazy, waning days of summer. Wrangle an invitation from friends or rent a vessel up to 105’ for the ultimate adieu to summer. yachtlife.com

AUGUST 4

STEMPOWER

WHERE: LaBagh Woods Hernandez Family Picnic Grove, Chicago

Make the most of a summer Sunday by participating in a 5k fundraising event hosted by high school students who are part of the Junior Board of the American India Foundation (AIF). Money raised through ticket sales and donations will provide STEM education to students in rural India. my.aif. org/STEMPower

AUGUST 10

DANCE FOR LIFE

WHERE: Auditorium Theatre, Chicago

“Dance for Life” is a one-of-a-

AGENDA

kind annual performance and benefit event that for more than three decades has showcased over 50 Chicago-based dance companies, as well as numerous choreographers, artists, and designers. The celebratory performance funds grantmaking through the Chicago Dance Health Fund, and those who participate graciously donate their time, energy, and artistry. cdhf.org

AUGUST 17

3 ON 3 BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT

WHERE: The Community House

The 3 on 3 Basketball Tournament encourages athletes from DuPage County and beyond to play like champions on

more than 15 outdoor and indoor courts. More than 70 teams will bring their best to the ultimate hoop showdown. Every entry supports athletic and recreation services at The Community House, where 3,000 children participate in 300 programs each year. thecommunityhouse.org

AUGUST 25

ICE CREAM SOCIAL

WHERE: Burlington Park, Hinsdale

The Hinsdale Hospital Junior Board welcomes the community to the 70th annual Ice Cream Social. In addition to sweet treats, there will be games, crafts, entertainment, and activities. This beloved event is always a terrific time

for the whole family. uchicagomedicineadventhealth.org/foundations/hinsdale-hospital-foundation

SEPTEMBER 8 ANTIQUES & TREASURES

WHERE: East Lake Forest Train Station

The Lake Forest Chapter of the Infant Welfare Society will host its 56th annual event supporting healthcare services to medically underserved families in Chicago. The event features over 35 dealers from across the Midwest, showcasing furniture, textiles, glassware, garden accessories, vintage jewelry, and clothing. All funds raised support the IWS Family Health Center. lakeforestiws.org

The Hinsdale Hospital Junior Board presents the 70th annual Ice Cream Social

RITZ IT

On the 12th floor of The Ritz-Carlton, Chicago, the Rooftop at Torali boasts stunning city and lake views, providing an elegant alfresco ambiance perfect for enjoying seasonal cocktails and light bites. The hotel celebrated the start of the season on June 6 with a “Summer Soirée” featuring live music by DJ Eliana and Tamila Viola. All summer long, guests and locals can indulge in sharable plates, handcrafted cocktails and scenic vistas while supporting Anti-Cruelty, a Chicago-based nonprofit at the forefront of animal welfare and humane education. For every Tito’s Vodka Blueberry Shandy cocktail sold, the hotel and Tito’s will each donate $1 to the organization (up to $3,000). Rooftop at Torali will also feature live music every Friday from a rotating lineup of local talent, including Annalee Hooson, Matt Kysia and DJ Eliana. ritzcarlton.com

THE BUZZ

BEJEWEL IT

Helen Yarmak’s jewelry collection has an extraordinary origin story. In the 1990s, she was invited to a gala at Buckingham Palace. With no jewelry to wear, this resourceful artist went to a stone store where she bought several Topaz specimens. These bacame her first ring, necklace, and earrings. The Helen Yarmak Summer Jewelry Collection is perfect for an Olympic year, with its gold, silver, rubies, and diamonds, celebrating dance, acrobatics, and the human form.With figures dancing on rings, earrings, keyrings, and bracelets, it’s a celebratory, artistic collection to wear on summer travels. This collection of treasures is carefully handcrafted in Italy from gemstones, 18 karat gold, pearls, and diamonds. Many pieces feature the turquoisecolored Paraiba Tourmaline stone, a rare gemstone that is found in Brazil that is renowned for its bright, neon-like blue hue that is breathtaking in its beauty. helenyarmak.com

COUNTRY VS. TOWN

CHRISTINE

GEBAUER

grew up in Elmhurst, during a transitional time, which left her with memories of both the very old and very new cornerstones of the community. “I remember spending hours reading, exploring and volunteering at the maze-like old library building, then by the time I was in high school, I was studying for finals at the stunning new library building, where I now take my own children to explore,” she says.

Her childhood was a wholesome suburban idyll, filled with the freedom of roaming around with friends. Without cell phones, social media, or streaming services, the excitement was walking home along the hidden Prairie Path.

Christine’s early art teachers encouraged her, and she enrolled in every art class she could find, even attending summer courses at the Elmhurst Art Museum as a child. Not knowing any full-time artists, she did not envision a creative career, and took a practical path in life, moving into retail buying and planning for Ulta Beauty after graduating from Illinois State University.

In a wonderful bit of symmetry, she now exhibits at the Elmhurst Art Museum in the Artist Guild Gallery, living her true calling as an artist and gallery-owning entrepreneur.

Christine says, “This example of life coming full circle illustrates that what is meant for you will always be there for you when you’re ready for it. It’s never too late to do what you’re meant to do and to become who you’re meant to become.”

She acknowledges that her foray into business continues to help her as a small business owner, and even helps create forecasts for fundraising efforts. “Having a strong left and right brain definitely give me an advantage as an artist and entrepreneur,” Christine says.

Christine Gebauer wears a blouse and skirt by Franco Ferrari from Sweet William.

COUNTRY VS. TOWN

She works hard to create opportunities for artists to prove to both her younger self and the next generation of creatives that you can have a successful career in the arts, saying, “Let’s put the starving artist stereotype to rest and chart a new path where artists are valued and well compensated for their contributions.”

Christine, her husband Eddie, their two young boys, Matthew and William, and a tornado of a Bernedoodle named Buttons live in a pocket of Hinsdale where they can walk to Madison School, the Hinsdale Community Pool, and The Community House. The family spends lots of time in their backyard, growing vegetables in raised beds built by Eddie and the boys, and native plants and flowers to support the pollinator population.

They are nearby Christine’s mother in Elmhurst, Eddie’s office in Oakbrook, and the medical team at Hinsdale Hospital, who supported Christine through a period of health challenges that included a neardeath experience, which has forever changed her outlook on life. “When I returned to good health, my outlook was forever changed, all my previous worries and fears evaporated, and in their place emerged a laser-focused drive to accomplish and experience everything I almost didn’t get to do. My priorities, my passions, and my purpose are crystal clear-and I don’t let fear get in the way of anything I want to do.” Christine shares.

That means returning to the art world, first as an artist, and now as an art dealer with a Hinsdale art gallery, Celestial Art Curation, where Christine’s work and the work of 14 other local artists is on view.

“I am fulfilling dreams that were too big for me to even imagine as my younger self. However, with an expressive soul, love of creativity, and a corporate retail background it’s not too hard to see how the dots have connected,” she says.

EDITED BY MICHELLE CROWE / PHOTOGRAPHY BY IAN MCLEOD

STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA / HAIR AND MAKEUP BY LEANNA ERNEST

Mantra? “If your dreams don’t scare you, you’re not dreaming big enough!” And boy do I live by this one! And boy am I scared sometimes! On your reading stack? The Boldly Inclusive Leader, by Minette Norman. It is important to me as a business owner, and as someone who works on a lot of volunteer teams, to create an environment where everyone is respected, heard and valued. The way I treat people and the working environments that I help create reflect my character and my values and it’s something I take very seriously. I hold myself to a high standard of leadership and I’m always learning. What organizations do you support? Joining Hinsdale Junior Woman’s Club (HJWC) and later the Hinsdale Auxiliary of Infant Welfare Society has enriched my life beyond words. The friendships, sense of belonging, and fulfilling work has been such a blessing to me and my family.” I’m also the fundraising chair for the Union Church Early Childhood Program (UCECP) and chaired the biennial fundraiser for the school this past February. We never miss Brightpoint’s Derby Day party, and I make it a point to attend as many Hinsdale Historical Society and Clarendon Hills Auxiliary of Infant Welfare Society events as possible. What has surprised you about living in this area? How close knit the community really is. I’ve met so many kind-hearted people and have seen first-hand how much affection and support people hold for our schools, non-profits, and neighbors. Any daily rituals that make you feel centered? I carve out a bit of quiet alone

time in the morning and in the evening to center my thoughts and intentions. I often wear noise cancelling headphones and journal a bit while enjoying a cup of tea. In the morning it’s cocoa, then matcha, chai, sometimes turmeric-ginger or elderberry, always ending the day with reishi. Music you love? I have not turned off Taylor Swift’s TTPD since it dropped! I wasn’t even necessarily a fan of Taylor Swift’s music before, but this album made me a “Swiftie”. Now I’m following all the fan accounts and trying to figure out the hidden messages behind her tour outfits! Favorite summer traditions? S’Mores! We always have marshmallows, chocolate and graham crackers on hand and this year we got a solo mesa tabletop fire pit. Now we have s’mores with a side of firefly chasing every night! What advice would you give to your younger self? Do not to fear being unapologetically yourself. When you are just radiating your truth, the people who resonate with you will find you and those who don’t fall away. Everyone in my orbit is kind, thoughtful, and super talented. You attract what you put out into the world. By being myself, I’ve created a life that’s truly fulfilling, and I get to spend my days with the most incredible friends and collaborators.

COUNTRY VS. TOWN

WHEN IN THE COUNTRY

What’s your go-to outfit? In summer I’m in white or oatmeal-colored linen separates, chunky cotton sweaters, Hermes Oran sandals, and a bum bag. This little uniform takes me from client appointments, grocery runs, park playdates, and to dinner, great when those all happen in the same afternoon. When going out for the evening I love a vibrant pop of red or orange with an otherwise monochromatic white or black outfit. I accessorize with layering of meaningful gold necklaces. First is a “M” & “W” necklace. Then a December birthstone Blue Zircon pendant. Me, Eddie, both boys and even our dog were all born in December. A medallion that I had custom made to represent mind, body, and soul working to bring heaven to earth. I always wear three gold rings along with my wedding and engagement rings. Where is your favorite place to walk? My favorite walk is from our home to downtown Hinsdale. We’ve been doing this walk with the boys since we moved to town; first in strollers and now on scooters. We usually stop by Toni’s so my cookie connoisseurs can try the latest offerings and I window shop and plot my return visits for when the boys are both in school. You might catch me on my E-Scooter alongside the boys - SO much fun! Is there anything you can’t leave the house without? My phone, specifically for the calendar. I have alarms on my phone for every pickup for the boys and all my appointments and meetings outside of those. Where do they know you by name? Studio W Interiors! Diana Wagenbach and her team are my go-to interior design firm that I have worked with to design my own home and to design my new art gallery. Do you have a favorite memory of living in the area? Last Halloween, when my boys were finally old enough to walk down the street hand in hand in their sweet Paw Patrol costumes with orange pumpkin buckets in their other hands. Watching them go door-to-door down the picturesque streets covered in freshly fallen leaves with the kindest neighbors felt like something out of a movie. Another is from our last HJWC “voting night”. We funded a grant for the Hinsdale Hospital NICU where William spent the first week of his life in 2020. The hospital now has a brand-new state-of-the-art piece of equipment that is the first of its kind in DuPage county. I am so proud to be a part of that legacy. Favorite festival or special event? The Christmas Walk is just straight out of a Hallmark movie and every year I can’t believe we get to experience this wonderful event right in our hometown. It also usually falls on either my or William’s birthday. It feels extra special to celebrate with cake at home and then a ride on a merry-go-round in the center of our town.

WHEN IN TOWN

Do you wear any outfits or accessories that like too much day to day but is perfect for the city? I typically wear a wide-leg trouser and jacket with a cross-body wallet on a chain and a cool pair of sneakers so I can walk as far as I’d like. We usually bring the boys to the city when we go so our days are full of adventures! What is your favorite walking route? I love to walk through Lincoln Park, it feels like a little natural oasis in the middle of the city. You can wander down paths through beautiful natural areas and right into a zoo or a nature museum. What’s in your bag? Phone, keys, wallet, gloss, and LENS WIPES! I can’t live without them, for sunglasses and phone camera lenses. I can always tell if a photo was taken with a dirty camera lens. View that never gets old? The city skyline from the lake. Eddie and I charter a small sailboat at night to see the city at night with champagne in hand. We’ve also taken the boys on the architecture boat tour during the day and it’s just as beautiful. Best quick bite or hidden gem? The boys LOVE to go to Chicago, so we usually bring them when we visit the city. For them, it’s like Richard Scarry’s Cars and Trucks and Things That Go has come to life. We find a restaurant along the river where they can watch the boats and bridges. My cousin is an only child like me, we are closest person either of us has to a sibling. We visit her to grill burgers and take in the views of towering buildings and beautiful parks from her Streeterville rooftop. Do you have a favorite museum? If you invite me to the city there is a 99% chance I am going to try to add a stop at the Art Institute of Chicago to the itinerary. It fills me with a rush of emotion, inspiration and excitement that makes me want to race home to my studio to paint before it wears off. What is your favorite movie filmed or set in Chicago? Ferris Bueller’s Day Off. it was filmed in Chicago the year I was born and even features scenes filmed at the Art Institute. My mother let me watch movies beyond my years when I was younger, so I grew up with a crush on Matthew Broderick. Those brown eyes and charming smile just may have influenced my choice of husbands.

WHO WORE IT WELL, WONDERFULLY, AND WHERE

Who wore it well, wonderfully, and where at The Hinsdale Kitchen Walk

PHOTOGRAPHY BY IAN MCLEOD

CRISSY WILSON

KEKA COBB

COURTNEY CASEY

BEST DRESSED

MIMMI EBONG

SASMITA CRAMER

TORAL TULI

LAEL FALLS

Superficial

01 Lip Butter Balm - Conditioning Lip Mask summerfridays.com $28 02 ELTAMD UV Clear Broad-Spectrum SPF 46 $46 sephora.com 03 JAN MARINI Bioglycolic Face Cleanser $48 dermstore.com 04 Fruit Enzyme Hydrating Mist $25 mychelle.com 05 ARMANI Beauty Prisma Glass Lip Gloss color nude glow $38 neimanmarcus. com 06 Chantecaille Limited Edition Sunstone Lip Sheer $36 bergdorfgoodman.com 07 La Mer - The Mouisturizing Cream $570 neimanmarcus. com 08 CAUDALIE Beauty Elixir Face Mist $20 sephora.com 09 Sisley-Paris Sunleÿa SPF 50+ $355 neimanmarcus.com 10 Acqua Di Parma Mirto di Panarea Limited Edition Eau de Toilette, 3.4 oz. $212 neimanmarcus.com 11 Aeternum Luxe Ampoule Mist $20 franzskincareusa.com

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DIVORCE – DO YOU NEED A NEW PERSPECTIVE?

Navigating the nuances of family law should consider the advice of a skilled professional.

WORDS BY MICHONE RIEWER

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATRINA WITTKAMP

STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA

HAIR & MAKEUP BY LEANNA ERNEST

Big life events often call for advice beyond your own circle of friends and family. Among those are divorce and pregnancy, which surprisingly have a lot of similarities. Friends, family, even strangers want to give you advice. Free, unsolicited advice is often worthless and almost always alarming. Some want to scare you with their overinflated horror story. Others want to impress you with their overinflated success story. It is painful. And while most mean well, you really need a trusted professional—a physician or midwife in one case and a well vetted family law attorney in the other—to guide you through it.

With the ever-changing landscape of family law, just like prenatal care, you need advice from a professional who knows exactly where you are and can guide you to where you’re going. Since 2017, I have found that most of the people sharing their experience, advice, and criticism weren’t even divorced at a time that the current statute was in place. The fact that your neighbor’s brother’s wife received $10,000 per month of maintenance for life is obviously irrelevant when you finally find out she was divorced in California in 1980. But the story, as it was being told, made you feel inadequate and made you question whether your attorney was protecting your best interest. In fact, the story made you feel as though you should probably go get another attorney because what if your attorney’s strategy, plan, or lack thereof, was fatally detrimental to your divorce, and therefore, your future success.

Each divorce has its own unique circumstances and nuances. While all must follow the same laws, each divorcing couple will have a unique arrangement and it’s your attorney’s responsibility to help guide you to your best outcome. Please do not judge the success or failure of your current divorce attorney, based on a success

story of another couple. However, if you have concerns about your attorney’s strategy, focus, plan, or the lack thereof, getting a second opinion—a new perspective—is a good idea. Before you decide to switch attorneys, hire a different family law attorney to review where you are at and determine if your case strategy makes sense and whether you’re on track to meet your goals.

When you need a new perspective, the attorneys at Strategic Divorce can be retained to review your situation, discuss your current strategy, review documents and give you advice—even before you decide whether you want to make a change.

Michone J. Riewer is an attorney with Strategic Divorce in Lake Bluff, 847-234-4445, strategicdivorce.com.

Michone J. Riewer

Congratulations to the Class of 2024!

Congratulations to our St. Isaac Jogues Alumni! These high school graduates, Class of 2024, are now headed to some of the best and brightest colleges in the country! A graduate of SIJ can be found in many of the leading universities in the country. We’re proud of our students, our graduates, and the leaders they become.

The Difference is Christ 421 South Clay Street, Hinsdale

When Expertise Meets Excellence

Choose Tracy Anderson for Success

With a proven track record in the real estate industry, Tracy Anderson brings unparalleled expertise and a commitment to excellence to every client interaction. With a keen understanding of market trends and a dedication to personalized service, Tracy ensures that each client receives tailored guidance and support throughout their real estate journey.

Whether you’re buying, selling, or investing, Tracy’s meticulous attention to detail and unwavering professionalism guarantee a smooth and successful transaction. Trust Tracy Anderson to navigate the complexities of the real estate market and turn your property aspirations into reality.

Tracy Anderson, JD Founding Broker Hinsdale Office

Real Estate Broker Luxury Specialist M: 630.452.3108 tracy.anderson@compass.com tracyandersonrealty.com One Grant Square #201, Hinsdale, IL 60521

The COMPASSIONATE Trailblazer

Dr. Mira Albert’s is one of the nation’s leading pediatric dentists. Her approach to building a beautiful life and exceptional practice holds lessons for patients and parents.

WORDS BY MICHELLE CROWE

PHOTOGRAPHY BY RUNVIJAY PAIL

Dr. Mira Albert at home in Hinsdale.

Change is inevitable, be it the world around us or children as they sprout up from year to year. Touchstones, like twice a year visits with a favorite dentist, keep us grounded and help create the warm memories of living in a caring community.

A favorite member of this community is Dr. Mira Albert, the much-admired pediatric dentist, spokesperson for the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry (AAPD), trustee of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry Foundation (AAPDF), poised spokesperson for pediatric dentistry, philanthropist, and Kellogg MBA entrepreneur. This multi-tasker has been in high demand her entire career. Fresh out of her residency she balanced weekdays leading a dental clinic in an underserved neighborhood on Chicago’s South Side with Saturdays in a leading Gold Coast practice.

From there she excelled in a busy suburban practice, where she was soon invited to partnership. “I was thrilled and honored to receive that offer. I admired everything the partners had built, but it wasn’t right for me, ” she says, adding, “I wanted to be a part of my own community, to be able to support my children at their games and school activities,” Mira says.

“I wanted to be part of my own community, to be able to support my children at their games and school activities.”

These early career experiences sparked an idea for a different kind of practice, one with serious dentistry in a lighthearted environment. Brush Pediatric Dentistry, founded in 2011, was a success from the moment the doors opened. Parents appreciated the fresh approach and children responded to the whimsical environment and kind staff.

Brush quickly became one of the area’s most beloved businesses, and as the first cohort of Brush kids reach high school and college, a new crew of babies and toddlers are poised to be a part of the Brush magic in Hinsdale and the new Downers Grove office.

They will discover what their big brothers and sisters did, that the caring women who work there are the best at teaching tooth care habits and life lessons at each visit.

Hidden in each child’s bi-annual appointments are other lessons, too.

COURAGE

One of Mira’s mantras is “being fearless doesn’t mean you have no fear, it means you are strong enough to face your fears.” This is helpful advice for children in the dental chair who might be feeling apprehensive. It’s also good advice for adults making decisions as exemplified by Mira herself. One example is choosing to open Brush instead of joining that established practice. Expanding to a second office is another. Earning a Kellogg MBA is a third. She

sums it up by saying, “I think waking up and facing the fears that come with running a business and finding strength within yourself and from those around you are the best ways to navigate challenges and emerge stronger than before,”

TEAMWORK

Trailblazers keep moving forward, meeting challenges and bringing ideas to life. The best do not go it alone, they bring others along for the ride, elevating careers, experiences, and sometimes even whole professions. For Dr. Albert, this continues to include the best dentists, dental hygienists, and office staff around.

Each of the pediatric dentists have built incredible CVs. Dr. Maggie Rizzo, who will lead the Downers Grove office, did so alongside Dr, Albert. For a year between Dr. Maggie’s undergraduate tenure at the University of Michigan and her enrollment at University of Illinois Chicago for Dental School, she worked closely with Dr. Albert as her dental assistant. This experience sparked her passion for the field of pediatric dentistry. Dr. Maggie is thrilled to be providing care alongside the wonderful team at Brush Pediatric Dentistry.

She has been appointed to the Department of Surgery Division of Dentistry of the Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago to help train the current pediatric dental residents. She understands that each child has specific and unique needs. Dr. Maggie dedicates her career to treating each child with compassion and is dedicated to instilling healthy oral habits in children at a young age. Dr. Maggie is a board-certified pediatric dentist and a Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. “I respect and implicitly trust Dr Maggie. I am thrilled to be growing with her,” Mira says.

FAMILY

Dr. Albert has followed through on her promise to attend her boys’ games and events. She and her husband, also a dentist, can be spotted on sidelines cheering for them. The fantastic effect of this is that hundreds of children have seen their beloved dentist out and about, rooting for their success as well as that of her own children.

Brush Pediatric Dentistry sponsors many area events, from school fundraisers to hospital initiatives and more. You’ll find the staff at the Fall Family Fest handing out toothbrushes to fight the sugar bugs from all the candy. Clever parents will bring the excess into the office, where it will be shipped to military bases in early November.

LOOKING AHEAD

Thank goodness Dr. Albert turned down that offer years ago. She has enriched this community in countless ways. As Brush Pediatric Dentistry enters a new phase, it will be delightful to see what she and her team accomplish next.

For anyone seeking pediatric dental care, Brush should be on the short list. For babies, special needs children, routine and emergency care this is the place where children are nurtured and inspired by women who care about their wellbeing and are determined to create a positive experience around going to the dentist.

brushforkids.org, 630.504.2223

Dr. Ahmad exclusively does cosmetic eyelid surgery and specializes in cosmetic blepharoplasty for the upper and lower eyelids as well as ptosis repair. Dr. Ahmad and Daisy, his nurse and licensed aesthetician, also use non-invasive treatments such as neurotoxins (Botox etc.), RF micro needling, chemical peels and fractional CO2 laser to improve the eyelid appearance, color and symmetry.

It’s our pleasure to care for patients in Chicago and the Western suburbs. Dr. Ahmad and his staff take great pride in being the cosmetic eyelid surgeon of choice of many of his medical peers.

AMJAD Z. AHMAD, MD

630-505-8888 or 773-799-8883

3100 Ogden Ave, Lisle, IL 60532 | 3000 N. Halsted St, Suite 609, Chicago, IL 60657 www.chicagoeyelids.com

DR. AMJAD Z. AHMAD & STAFF

PHILANTHROPISTS, Assemble

Since 1963, the Hinsdale Assembly has funded a variety of worthy causes for Hinsdale Hospital while fostering a love of service in young people.

WORDS BY MICHELLE CROWE PHOTOGRAPHY BY IAN MCLEOD

Emily Van Houtte and Kim Hart in the NICU at Hinsdale Hospital

One of the greatest joys of parenthood is guiding children towards their passions. From the first enrichment class through school, sport, and artistic pursuits, it is thrilling to help our young people develop through worthy endeavors.

TRADITION

For more than 60 years, parents of rising high school seniors have had the opportunity to support their children in an organization that encourages family time, strengthens the community, and instills a deep love of service.

The Hinsdale Assembly Board, comprised of a dedicated group of quiet movers and shakers about town, summons young women to be debutantes and young men to the honor guard via gorgeous, oversized invitations that confer the significance of joining this storied group. This extraordinary piece of mail and the Assembly Ball are the two gilded moments that bookend a year of extraordinary experiences.

“The invitations are beautiful because we hope each invitee knows how special we think they are and how deeply we are hoping the family will accept and be a part of our organization,” says Assembly President Emily Van Houtte.

SERVICE

The efforts of the Hinsdale Assembly have contributed over $3.4 million directly benefitting the Hinsdale Hospital Foundation. This much-appreciated total has funded the purchase of state-of-the-art medical equipment and special projects. Hinsdale Assembly has endowed the Wellness Garden, Digital Mammography Initiative, Third Floor Family Surgical Center of the Patient Pavilion, and contributed $1,000,000 toward the AdventHealth Cancer Institute Hinsdale.

In 2021, Hinsdale Assembly completed a timely and critical two-year commitment benefiting Hinsdale Hospital’s Behavioral Health Services.

This was followed by the 2022 announcement of a five-year, $250,000 commitment to help fund the very much-needed renovation of the Neo-Natal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) at Hinsdale Hospital. This incredibly vital area of the hospital has not been renovated in over 20 years. The Assembly Board is determined to help directly impact the hospital’s, and our community’s, smallest and most frail patients.

COMMUNITY

In addition to the significant work on behalf of Hinsdale Hospital, the participating young adults work together on several community service projects throughout their year with Hinsdale Assembly. The group has cared for the land by clearing invasive plants at local forest preserves and gardening at the hospital.

There are several projects assisting at the Hinsdale Community Services Food Pantry, an organization that many Assembly members go on to support for a lifetime.

Debutantes and honor guards get to know neighbors of all ages as they play bingo with seniors at Bethlehem Woods Retirement Community and execute activities to cheer up children whose lives have been affected by cancer with a project for the Wellness House.

“Spending time improving places and making life better for people from all walks of life creates deep connections to the community and fosters a lifelong sense of responsibility,” says Assembly Past President Kim Hart.

FAMILY

Hinsdale Assembly also celebrates family and friends through special events and class bonding activities. At the Three Generation Tea, debutantes, their mothers and aunts, and grandmothers have an afternoon all to themselves. The years fall away as the senior generations tell tales from their own high school and college experiences.

The Father Daughter Waltz offers dads and debutantes time to themselves, a rarity in the whirlwind of adolescences. Harkening back to daddy daughter dances of years past, this occasion is a core memory maker for all. It also ensures that everyone is light on their feet when the year culminates with the magical Hinsdale Assembly Ball on December 23rd every year.

FUTURE

The best traditions last because they evolve. Hinsdale Assembly is a prime example of this truth. Over the years, the debutantes, honor guards, and their families have become evermore impressive. They are caring, committed to bettering the world around them, and devoted to excellence. The Ball is still highly anticipated and enjoyed by all, yet if you ask recent participants what made the year meaningful, they’ll say the friendships, time with family, the satisfaction of helping others, and their deepened connection to the community. “It’s a pivotal year for these young people as they move from high school to college, and we’re here to support them and hopefully grow their commitment to philanthropy,” Van Houtte says.

YES TO THE BEST

When one of those oversized envelopes lands in your post box, consider the and the enjoyment that accepting will bring. The time requirement is manageable, allowing for academics, essay writing time, college visits, sports, shows, and senior trips. The benefits will last a lifetime. “We are so looking forward to working with this year’s class, please join us,” says Hart.

hinsdaleassembly.org

Money Matters

Hinsdale Living ’s annual finance issue features the Western Suburb’s leading wealth managers, estate planners, and insurance experts who help us build the lives we dream of. Whether you’re a young family charting your children’s higher education goals or a retirement-aged couple that seeks to secure the future of the next generation, the experts profiled in the following pages have garnered a national reputation for helping high-net-worth residents and business owners achieve short and long-term financial goals. When money matters, these are the professionals to turn to.

PRODUCED & EDITED BY KEMMIE RYAN

WORDS BY SHERRY THOMAS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY IAN MCLEOD, KATRINA WITTKAMP, & ROBIN SUBAR

STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA

HAIR & MAKEUP BY FRANCES TSALAS, LEANNA ERNEST, MARGARETA KOMLENAC, & RONNIE PRINCE

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT: CHEYANNE LENCIONI

ANTHONY PELLEGRINO

FOUNDER & CEO

GOLDSTONE FINANCIAL GROUP

Recognizing the limitations in many advisory firms, Anthony Pellegrino was driven by a commitment to providing unparalleled service tailored to each client’s unique needs. He observed that traditional approaches often fell short, leaving highnet-worth individuals without the customized planning essential for their financial success. In response, Pellegrino founded Goldstone Financial Group. At Goldstone, the focus extends far beyond numbers and portfolios; it encompasses the realization of clients’ most ambitious visions--not just for their finances, but for their lives as well. Understanding that the challenges faced by high-net-worth individuals are unique, Pellegrino and his team at Goldstone specialize in navigating the intricacies of wealth management. By prioritizing personalized strategies and fostering a culture of innovation, Pellegrino has established Goldstone Financial Group as a beacon of excellence in the industry. Under his leadership, Goldstone empowers clients to envision futures larger than they ever imagined, ensuring that their financial legacies reflect not just wealth but true prosperity and fulfillment in all aspects of their lives. “Building true wealth goes beyond finances and financial planning, and that is who we are,” he says. “We love nothing more than helping our clients and their families live confidently.”

For more information, visit goldstonefinancialgroup.com/anthony-pellegrino.

ELIZABETH ESAREY, CPA

JESSICA B. DEBOLD, CFP®, EA

GOLDSTONE FINANCIAL GROUP

Jessica B. DeBold, a Certified Financial Planner ™ (CFP) and Enrolled Agent (EA) with Goldstone Financial Group, grew up running numbers with her father, who ran a family-owned business. “As a child, I remember him talking to me about their 401(k) plan and how he encouraged his employees to participate. He used an old financial planning calculator and explained compound interest to me,” says DeBold, who now has more than 18 years of experience in the financial industry. “I was immediately drawn to the power that financial planning could provide to people.” She currently works with Elizabeth Esarey at Goldstone Financial Group, which was founded on the belief that comprehensive financial planning should be included in every investment advisory relationship. DeBold is a CFP® professional and an Enrolled Agent. The IRS Enrolled Agent status is the highest credential the IRS awards. Enrolled Agents, like attorneys and certified public accountants (CPAs), have unlimited practice rights. Esarey, a CPA who brings more than 20 years of experience as a partner in a public accounting firm, specializes in working with small business owners and individuals. “I was an owner in a firm, so I have firsthand knowledge of what it takes to run a small business,” she explains. “I have advised many clients over the years on ways to reduce their tax burden.” DeBold, who is also a forward-thinking tax planner, says both she and Esarey know that financial planning is about more than managing assets. “At Goldstone Financial Group, we have a team of specialists in the different disciplines of financial planning that allows us to provide a very high level of detail and service to all of our clients.” Both Esarey and DeBold joined Goldstone after being part of a tax team for the largest Registered Investment Advisory firm in the country which managed nearly $300 billion in assets. Their goal is to bring high level tax planning and mitigation strategies to Goldstone clients.

For more information, visit goldstonefinancialgroup.com.

ANTHONY CHIARITO

ANTHONY CHIARITO & ASSOCIATES AMERICAN FAMILY INSURANCE

After 12 years as a Futures Trader at the Chicago Mercantile Exchange, Oak Brook resident Anthony Chiarito took a leap of faith in 2008 to open a new American Family Insurance agency in Westmont that has empowered him to assist clients during life’s most challenging moments. “Transitioning into my agency career allowed me to tap into my strength of team building and the satisfaction of helping clients make better and more educated decisions. My unwavering trust in AmFam’s commitment to doing what’s right fuels my confidence and contributes to my success,” says Chiarito, explaining that the Westmont office was so successful that he was asked to run the Dupage County sales district—managing 37 independent insurance agents for five years. “I then had the opportunity to acquire a long-term highly respected agency located in Lemont that serves the entire Hinsdale area and 10 states. Our customer experience is top of class. We work hard to exceed our customers’ expectations.” Chiarito and his colleagues specialize in providing tailored insurance solutions for personal home, auto, liability, and life insurance. The agency also provides expertise in small to mid-size businesses. In addition to representing American Family Insurance, it also offers coverage from other top carriers such as Chubb, AIG, Openly, Travelers, AmTrust, and Hartford through its Brokerage and Alliance department. “Being proactive, candid, responsive, and providing impactful advice is a standard we bring each and every day,” he adds. “Our clients feel the difference and feel our value.” Chiarito, who is recognized as a top producer for American Family Insurance, earning the Million Dollar Round Table designation for life insurance sales, gives back to the community he serves through contributing to Misericordia and supporting other local nonprofits with his family.

For more information, visit amfam.com/agents/illinois/lemont/ anthony-chiarito.

SERGIO GIANGRANDE

SENIOR MORTGAGE ADVISOR PREFERRED RATE

Sergio Giangrande is a Senior Mortgage Advisor with more than 22 years of experience helping clients finance their dream homes. A love of real estate and finance has made him an expert in residential mortgage lending—with experience originating both purchase and refinance transactions and extensive knowledge of loans ranging from Conventional and Jumbo to government programs such as FHA and VA. His core beliefs are rooted in product expertise, sincere respect for his clients and partners, and a commitment to delivering on promises. “This is what elevates our service level above the rest,” explains Giangrande, who approaches every transaction with an unmatched level of professionalism. He and his team are committed to providing clients with the highest quality financial services by tailoring a financial solution that is suited to meet each client’s specific financing needs. Whether you are purchasing your first home, your dream home, refinancing an existing loan, or consolidating debt, Giangrande and his team can help you find the right loan program to meet your needs.

For more information, visit giangrandeteam.com.

CHRISTOPHER PATTERSON, CFP ®

BRANCH MANAGER

FIRST VICE PRESIDENT/INVESTMENTS STIFEL

Christopher Patterson, Branch Manager at Stifel, says his 27 years of success in finance is proof that a hard work ethic always pays off. “I was working six days, 50 to 60 hours a week, when I first got into the industry in my mid-20s while also starting a family,” says Patterson, who raised two children, Mercedes and Cozette, in the Hinsdale community with his wife, Juhl. “I built a practice through teaching investment classes to communities because I loved educating the public about investing.” His expertise in fixed income, private equities, portfolio management, regulatory supervision, private equities, and alternative investments is put to work for the clients he serves—investing the same time and care into their goals as he does the ones for his own family. “Being in the industry for so long, I’ve built long standing relationships with my clients, seeing them and their own families grow throughout the years,” he says, explaining that he works to balance the goals of the client, the company, and the financial advisor all within the framework of the regulatory system. “I believe in valued guidance in a cost effective manner with a golden rule of ‘treat others as you would like to be treated’.” This level of dedication and discipline can also be seen in Patterson’s personal passion as a triathlete and cyclist, sports he has been engaging in since the 1990s. “I continue cycling to this day and lead a community cycling group,” he adds, “channeling my love for the sport and community engagement.”

For more information, visit stifel.com.

WILLIAM R. WHITE, CFP ® , CIMA ®, CPFA ®

MANAGING DIRECTOR/INVESTMENTS

PORTFOLIO MANAGER –SOLUTIONS PROGRAM

WRW WEALTH MANAGEMENT GROUP

STIFEL

William R. White is a Managing Director and a Portfolio Manager – Solutions Program at Stifel. He leverages his over 37 years of experience in investment planning and wealth management to deliver personalized comprehensive wealth management strategies. He holds the CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ certification and the Certified Investment Management Analyst™ and Certified Plan Fiduciary Advisor® designations. White integrates sophisticated wealth management with tax-efficient investment strategies as part of his overall approach while providing a wide range of services, such as risk mitigation and transfer, retirement planning, estate planning strategies, and private equity investments. For clients who choose discretionary advisory services, he adapts strategies designed to combine customized investment management with the ability to quickly react to market conditions. This may incorporate individual stocks and bonds, customized portfolios, and third-party investment strategies. He leads the WRW Wealth Management Group, a highly qualified and sophisticated team that seeks to bring a positive impact to the lives of their clients. White was named to Forbes’ Bestin-State Wealth Advisors list in 2022 and 2023. It is the team’s mission to help clients pursue their financial goals through every stage of their lives by empowering them with customized, time-tested financial guidance. Active in the community, White is a trustee for The Community House in Hinsdale, Illinois, and serves on the finance committee. He is also an associate member of the Chicago Blackhawk alumni association. White has been married to his wife, Pam, for 37 years and has two adult daughters, Brooke and Devon, who grew up in Hinsdale.

For more information, visit stifel.com.

Stifel does not provide legal or tax advice. You should consult with your legal and tax advisors regarding your specific situation.

Forbes’ Best-in-State Wealth Advisors rankings are based on the 12-month period ending June 30 of the year prior to publication and selected by SHOOK Research, LLC from a pool of nominations as indicated in the methodology. The rankings may not be representative of any one client’s experience and are not indicative of the financial advisor’s future performance. For more information, see www.stifel. info/award-disclosures.

The Solutions program requires a minimum investment, which varies by strategy. Ask your Financial Advisor for a Disclosure Brochure, which further outlines the fees, services, exclusions, and disclosures associated with this program. Since all investment decisions in a Solutions account are made by the Financial Advisor without having to receive prior client approval, it is important that Solutions clients have detailed knowledge of the Financial Advisor’s individual investment philosophy and decision-making process before entrusting him or her with their portfolio. You should consider all terms and conditions before deciding whether the Solutions Program and any particular strategy are appropriate for your needs.

MATT PEQUET & DAVE PEQUET

MPI WEALTH MANAGEMENT, LLC.

After serving in the Navy and being a stock and bond broker for 10 years, in 1986, Dave Pequet founded MPI Wealth Management, LLC, a registered investment advisory firm. “We are independent and do not sell any financial products and therefore can act as a client’s fiduciary. Our compensation is not commission-based and structured so that when you are successful, we are successful,” explains Pequet, who welcomed his son, Matt, into the business 21 years ago. Together they provide conservative asset management always prioritizing what is in the best interest of the client. “Risk is relative and perceived differently by each and every investor. Our firm has successfully navigated through good markets and bad for 38 years.” Dave says he is grateful to the family friend who convinced him to go to Wall Street after leaving the Navy. “It turned out to be a very valuable piece of advice,” he says. “We are very proud that the firm has a long-standing, successful track record and has remained independent, family-owned, and active in the community for nearly four decades. In 2015, the Pequets founded the charity event, Red, White & Blues, supporting veterans and active-duty military personnel. Dave adds, “I invite you to allow us to utilize our experience to help you design an investment approach that meets your goals and allows you to sleep at night.”

For more information, visit mpiwealthmanagement.com.

FRANK SCHROEDER

FOUNDER & CEO

CAMPUS 2 CAREER TRANSITION SERVICES

It was at the height of the 2009 financial crisis that Frank Schroeder founded Campus 2 Career Transition Services (“C2C”) to help parents protect their most precious investment—their children. “I recognized the need for this high value, high touch service,” explains Schroeder, who serves as CEO of what has blossomed into a successful enterprise. “The company was created to provide young college graduates with the coaching and hands-on assistance they need to define their career objective and land a meaningful job or internship in the field of their choice. Our success rate is 98 percent.” Schroeder brings a diverse background to the company, including more than 40 years of sales, marketing, corporate development, and general management for leading U.S. organizations. “This track record allows me to assist young adults in finding the right first job in the field of their choice,” he says, adding that his experience and dedication to this demographic sets his business apart from the competition. “Our process is hands on starting with assessments to on-boarding advice and salary negotiations following an offer.” Each client has a primary coach who is the day-to-day contact. “Just like financial advisors, our coaches build strong bonds of trust,” says Schroeder. “Other members of the C2C team our clients meet include specialized coaches in strategic résumé development and interviewing skills. Searching the job market is often bewildering, formidable, and can be confidence shattering. Having a solid, logical plan and dedicated seasoned coaches who are invested in success take away much of the stress and allows the client to focus on the task at hand.”

For more information, visit campus2career.org.

Law & Order

Whether you need an expert to help manage your estate or an advocate who will fight for your rights in a family law or personal injury case, the Western Suburbs are lucky to have some of the most accomplished attorneys in the nation. This special issue of Hinsdale Living highlights some of our region’s leading experts in personal injury, family law and divorce, estate planning, and other matters of law and order. From the state’s largest, most celebrated law firms to boutique practitioners, this section serves as a trusted directory of award-winning attorneys who have a track record of securing the best outcomes for their clients.

PRODUCED & EDITED BY KEMMIE RYAN

WORDS BY SHERRY THOMAS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY IAN MCLEOD, KATRINA WITTKAMP, & ROBIN SUBAR

STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA

HAIR & MAKEUP BY FRANCES TSALAS, LEANNA ERNEST, MARGARETA KOMLENAC, & RONNIE PRINCE

EDITORIAL ASSISTANT: CHEYANNE LENCIONI

SHANA VITEK

EQUITY PARTNER

BEERMANN LLP

Shana Vitek is an Equity Partner at Beermann LLP, the largest family law firm in the country. For more than 20 years, she has practiced divorce and family law exclusively. She handles a wide range of cases, including divorces for business owners, high-profile and high-net-worth clients.

Vitek’s ability to handle any type of case has allowed her to become one of only a few attorneys in Illinois to be Board Certified in Family Trial Law by the National Board of Trial Advocacy. She is also a Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers and serves on the Board of Governors for the Illinois Chapter. “Every family is different, so each case that I handle needs an individualized approach,” she says. “All initial consultations include information about the alternatives to litigation and keeping the divorce process out of court.” In addition to being a litigator, Vitek is also a trained mediator, arbitrator, and collaborative attorney. If a case can be handled using a cooperative approach, that is her preferred process. “It is more respectful, allowing the parties to decide what is best for their family while maintaining confidentiality and keeping sensitive personal details out of the public record.”

Vitek believes it is important to give back to the community. She is Chair of the Beermann LLP Family Law Clinic. In partnership with Chicago Volunteer Legal Services, this first of its kind family law clinic provides pro bono legal services to individuals going through domestic relations proceedings who could not otherwise afford legal representation. “We feel strongly about giving back to the community, and given the size of our firm, we are in a unique position to make a big difference for clients who would otherwise go unrepresented in family law matters,” says Vitek.

For more information visit beermannlaw.com/team/shana-l-vitek.

COLLEEN M. BREEMS

PARTNER BEERMANN LLP

Colleen M. Breems has been devoted to matrimonial and family law since the beginning of her legal career, working tirelessly to deliver results to the client in need. “I feel most rewarded when I work with individuals in the middle of crisis, and I can shepherd them to a better place than the one in which I found them,” says Breems, a partner at Beermann LLP. “It is also especially rewarding when I get happy and proud updates from the children I have represented. They all hold a special place in my heart.” In fact, fighting for the rights of children is what initially inspired Breems to become a lawyer. In addition to being an expert litigator, she is trained in collaborative divorce and often acts as a Guardian ad Litem (GAL), child representative, mediator, or parent coordinator.“I have always worked with children, and I have always had a passion in working with those who most need advocacy—including victims of domestic violence and children in the middle of family law disputes. I love being a voice for those who need it. Becoming a family law attorney felt like a natural choice, and being an attorney who advocates for children has been a calling. I could not imagine doing anything else.” One of her many philanthropic endeavors is serving as Vice President of the Advocacy Council of the Junior League of Chicago—a women’s voluntarism organization that trains women leaders. “I am passionate about this work, and all of the community service we provide to local women, children, and families,” she adds. “This work dovetails nicely with the work I do as a family law attorney, and allows me to expand my work into serving not just individuals, but the community.”

For more information, visit beermannlaw.com/team/colleen-m-breems.

MARGARET P. BATTERSBY BLACK

MANAGING PARTNER & TRIAL ATTORNEY

LEVIN & PERCONTI

Growing up in a family of lawyers, Margaret P. Battersby Black had a strong sense of justice and fairness from a very young age. “As early as I can remember, I advocated for myself and others,” says Black, an award-winning trial attorney who has played a key role in a number of nursing home and medical malpractice cases at Levin & Perconti.

“Seeing the work that my father did helping injured victims inspired me to take his pathway when it came time to narrow down the field.” Today, she specializes in a variety of personal injury cases— from medical malpractice and birth injury to nursing home abuse and neglect, wrongful death, and physical and sexual abuse. “As a woman, I have compassion and empathy for the sad times my clients find themselves in when they come to me. I am able to hear their stories and their perspectives and understand the human aspect of their suffering in addition to the legal nuances of their case,” says Black, who received the 2023 Carole K. Bellows Women of Influence award, which honors those who are advocates for action addressing women’s issues and promote involvement by women in the legal community at all levels. She says that being a mother only fueled her desire to help other women and children who are less fortunate or have become victims of medical negligence. “It makes me proud to be able to tell my children that I helped a child who was disabled,” she adds, explaining that her life mission is to bring justice to victims and families who truly deserve it. “They have hit the lowest point in their lives when they come to me and giving them a voice and making sure that justice is done is the best part of my job.”

For more information, visit levinperconti.com/attorneys/margaret-pbattersby-black.

JANET BOYLE,

FOUNDER AND PRINCIPAL

ARIN FIFE,

PARTNER

FAMILY LAW SOLUTIONS, P.C.

Navigating the complexities of family law requires adept guidance, and at Family Law Solutions, clients receive unwavering support every step of the way. As the Founder and Principal of Family Law Solutions, Janet Boyle personally invests herself in the journey of each client, particularly during pivotal moments in their cases. With a profound ability to empathize and comprehend her clients’ needs, Boyle leverages her extensive experience to provide clear and strategic guidance. “Many clients need us to be their strength, and some need us to give them a second perspective,” Boyle affirms. “Some may just need someone to bounce ideas off of, and some need us to just do it all.” At Family Law Solutions, they firmly believe that knowledge is power. They recognize the importance of informed decisionmaking and future planning for their clients. With a commitment to excellence, Boyle and her colleagues strive to tailor solutions that align with each client’s unique priorities and expectations. Arin Fife, Boyle’s esteemed colleague, shares this commitment, ensuring her clients play an active role in shaping their destinies throughout the divorce process. “My greatest strength is helping my clients with both compassion and determination,” Fife emphasizes. “People need to be educated and listened to, and I make it my priority to do both.” While divorce can present significant challenges, Boyle, Fife, and the entire team at Family Law Solutions work diligently to provide clarity and guidance. They understand that each client’s needs are different, and their approach is centered on active listening and transparent communication. At Family Law Solutions, they are committed to explaining the best and worst possible outcomes to their clients, empowering them to make informed decisions about their futures.

For more information, please visit familylawsolutionschicago.com.

SAMUEL T. CZERVIONKE

ASSOCIATE BEERMANN LLP

With cornerstones of competence, compassion, and civility, Beermann LLP associate Samuel T. Czervionke focuses his practice exclusively in the area of family and matrimonial law. “I obviously pride myself on being able to provide effective and creative answers to people’s legal questions. However, the most rewarding aspect of my job is being a source of comfort and certainty to someone going through one of the most uncomfortable and uncertain times of their life,” says Czervionke, who earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and a J.D. from Chicago Kent College of Law. His dedication to detail allows him to provide sophisticated and nuanced solutions to complicated and overwhelming problems. “There is a fine line between reacting and responding. I spend a lot of time working with clients to address issues with pragmatic responses rather than impulsive reactions,” he says. “This is the best way to keep a client’s goals in focus and ensure the right results are being achieved.” Czervionke admits that becoming a lawyer was not originally part of his life plan. “I do not come from a family of lawyers, nor did I grow up dreaming of being one, but I had the opportunity to work in a law office after college,” he explains. “This experience showed me that the practice of law was not as cold and distant as I had been led to believe from TV and movies. I learned that law could be practiced competently, creatively, and compassionately, and quickly decided that this was the job for me.”

For more information, visit beermannlaw.com/team/samuel-tczervionke.

JOHN M. D’ARCO

MANAGING PARTNER BEERMANN LLP

John M. D’Arco, known nationwide to prominent figures and their spouses, is one of the highest profile divorce lawyers in the country recognized for handling the most complex and contentious family law disputes. In his more than 25 years as a trial lawyer, D’Arco has litigated every type of complex family law case, achieving major victories in cases involving disputes over custody, financial issues involving business valuations, non-marital claims, dissipation, enforcement of prenuptial agreements, child support, and maintenance. While a tenacious litigator, he’s known to be the calm in the storm, allowing him to negotiate excellent settlements for his clients. His reputation follows him as an astute and powerful lawyer by colleagues, judges, and clients; and he handles the most intricate cases needing a keen sense of the law, craftmanship, and precision, when everything is at stake. It is probably why he is the attorney behind the largest divorces in the state, but also why you never know about those divorce details. It’s also one of the very reasons why, his partners at Beermann, the largest family law firm in the country appointed him to be the Managing Partner of the illustrious firm. “Listening to what is important to clients and tailoring our strategy to their needs is the key to getting results that are favorable for the client and the sanctity of their family,” D’Arco says. “I knew at an early age that I wanted to work in a profession that enabled me to help people get through the most difficult times in their lives.” In recognition for his work in divorce and family law, D’Arco is consistently awarded accolades and recognized within the legal community throughout Illinois and beyond. He has been honored consecutively each year, since 2015, in Best Lawyers in America , the oldest and most respected peerreviewed publication of its kind. He has additionally been selected by his peers as an Illinois Super Lawyer ; a recognition designated to the top five percent of lawyers in Illinois, and The Leading Lawyers Network, since 2008.

For more information on D’Arco, visit beermannlaw.com/team/john-m-darco.

TIMOTHY J. CAVANAGH STACEY FEELEY CAVANAGH MICHAEL J. SORICH

CAVANAGH SORICH LAW GROUP

Cavanagh Sorich Law Group is a leading personal injury and medical malpractice law firm located in downtown Chicago. Led by founding partner Timothy J. Cavanagh who launched the firm in 1997, Cavanagh Sorich Law Group has successfully represented clients in many high-profile cases in Illinois and across the country for more than three decades. Cavanagh Sorich Law Group has obtained $750 million in verdicts and settlements for its clients including recordbreaking triumphs in Illinois in a number of areas. The attorneys at Cavanagh Sorich Law Group have expertise in every facet of personal injury law from medical malpractice and wrongful death cases to catastrophic railroad crashes and trucking cases. The firm has obtained more than 75 verdicts and settlements exceeding $1 million. “When I started the firm, I wanted to work with attorneys committed to the cause for our clients. Our attorneys are not only outstanding trial lawyers, but they are also all very empathetic people who are accessible to our clients at all times,” says Tim Cavanagh. Tim’s wife Stacey Feeley Cavanagh is also a partner at the firm. The Cavanaghs have been married for 24 years and have two sets of triplets who are a year apart in high school. Before joining Cavanagh Sorich Law Group in 2009, Stacey was a partner at another prominent Chicago law firm. “I realized when I began working with Tim that I find it more fulfilling to represent people than corporations,” says Stacey Feeley

Cavanagh. To be able to obtain justice for those who have lost loved ones or to give those who have been seriously injured the possibility of a better future is tremendously rewarding for all of us.” In March 2024, Michael J. Sorich was elevated to named partner. He joined the firm 10 years ago as a partner after working 13 years at the Cook County State’s Attorney’s office where he tried more than 50 cases and served as the youngest supervisor ever in the county’s civil division. Cavanagh and Sorich handled the landmark $20 million “code of silence” against the City of Chicago in federal court. The lawyers uncovered evidence at trial that the City of Chicago withheld critical evidence in discovery that should have been produced— which ultimately led to a $20 million settlement during Cavanagh’s closing argument. Recently, Cavanagh and Sorich obtained a $27 million wrongful death settlement in a trucking case, a $12.5 million medical malpractice settlement, and an $11 million settlement in a complex product liability case. “One of the things that sets us apart is our trial experience. This allows us to get the best results for our clients,” says Michael Sorich. “When a client loses a loved one or suffers another devastating loss, I cannot bring that person back but we can get our clients answers and provide them with financial security moving forward. That gives me tremendous satisfaction.” All three attorneys are active in professional organizations and their community. Timothy is the First Vice President of the Illinois Trial Lawyers Association and will serve as President of the organization beginning in June of 2025. He also serves on the Board of his alma mater John Carroll University, and on the Ambassadors Board of Mercy Home for Boys & Girls. Timothy is active in the Western Golf Association’s Evans Scholars Foundation. Stacey serves on the Guild Board of the Boys & Girls Club of Chicago and volunteers at St. Ignatius College Prep, co-chairing a 2023 fundraiser with Timothy that raised more the $3.5 million for academic scholarships. Sorich is a sought-after public speaker on legal issues and is president of the Marist High School Law Association and serves on its board of directors as well. For more information, visit cavanaghlawgroup.com.

MOLLY HAUNTY

PRINCIPAL

BERGER SCHATZ

For more than 13 years, attorney Molly Haunty has helped families and individuals in divorce and postdivorce matters, as well as representing clients with their assisted reproduction needs. A Principal at Berger Schatz specializing in family law, she thrives on leveling a couple’s power dynamic that often reveals itself as unbalanced during the divorce process. “It’s rewarding to help give someone his or her voice and confidence back,” says Haunty, a Northwestern University graduate who also received her J.D. from Northwestern Pritzker School of Law. “I take great pride in tailoring creative solutions to help each family get to the next chapter.” One thing that sets her apart from other divorce attorneys is her ability to seamlessly and successfully navigate between alternative dispute resolution and litigation. “My litigation skill set, negotiation skill set, and extensive knowledge of family law allow me to confidently and creatively represent my clients in both areas,” she says, noting an experience she had during law school that had a profound influence on the attorney she is today. “I had the privilege of holding a judicial externship with The Honorable Magistrate Judge Morton Denlow. He taught me that to succeed in mediation, clients must look forward, not backward, and that lesson helped shape my practice,” explains Haunty. “My goal is to help my clients understand that winning isn’t the only objective in divorce. Instead, to the extent a settlement can be worked out, the objective is to reach an acceptable agreement that allows everyone to move on. If litigation is necessary, my goal remains the same: helping clients achieve a resolution.” In addition to her practice, she is passionate about giving back to the Hinsdale area community through her involvement with Wellness House and the Hinsdale Historical Society.

For more information, visit bergerschatz.com/attorneys/molly-hhaunty.

MEIGHAN HARMON

MANAGING PARTNER

SCHILLER DUCANTO & FLECK LLP

While no two divorces are the same, Meighan Harmon believes that the key to every successful case lies in looking forward to the future. She firmly believes that dwelling on the past hinders progress and prevents clients from achieving their best results. “There are few opportunities we have as adults to reinvent ourselves and get a fresh start. Divorce provides that opportunity, should you choose to take it—my goal is to get clients excited about their new future” says Harmon. A versatile attorney, she offers her clients a myriad of options for resolving their disputes and possesses the skills necessary to provide the right solution for each unique situation. Harmon is an experienced litigator who can be fierce in the courtroom, but many of her cases are resolved in mediation where the parties can privately and efficiently devise creative solutions and amicably settle even the toughest cases. She focuses on complex family law cases involving the distribution of high-net-worth estates and represents successful business professionals and their spouses from a variety of industries, as well as individuals with multigenerational wealth. Harmon is part of an elite group of leaders in family law and is the Managing Partner of one of the largest family law firms nationally. Her impressive reputation as a trailblazer in family law has garnered international recognition with Chambers and Partners USA ranking her in the top tier (Band 1) for Family/Matrimonial Law: High Net Worth 2019-2024. Harmon has also been recognized as a Top 50 Women Lawyers in Illinois and Top 100 Lawyers in Illinois since 2016, and she was recently named a “Lawyer of the Year” in Family Law by Best Lawyers in America. Harmon is a Diplomate of the American College of Family Trial Lawyers (limited to 100 Diplomates Nationally), and an active Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers (and was President of the Illinois Chapter of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers in 2011) and the International Academy of Family Lawyers.

For more information, visit sdflaw.com/team/detail/meighan-harmon/bio.

MICHELE M. JOCHNER

PARTNER

SCHILLER DUCANTO & FLECK LLP

After nearly 16 years of service as a Judicial Law Clerk to two Chief Justices of the Illinois Supreme Court, Michele M. Jochner is keenly aware of what it takes to be on the winning side of cases, and has used that unique expertise as a partner at the internationally-recognized law firm of Schiller DuCanto & Fleck LLP to help her clients navigate some of life’s most difficult challenges. An accomplished writer and problem-solver, she represents high-asset clients in the Illinois Appellate Court and the Illinois Supreme Court who seek to protect hard-won trial victories or reverse adverse rulings.

“My appreciation of effective communication and a desire to help people in difficult times led me to family law,” says Jochner, who has been recognized by the Chicago Daily Law Bulletin as one of the top 50 Women in Law. Jochner—who handles the appellate matters for her firm’s three offices across Chicago, Lake Forest, and Wheaton—is known for her legal scholarship, having authored more than 200 articles appearing in publications nationwide. She has also earned respect and recognition from the bench and bar for the excellence of her work, mastery of the written word, and talent to craft compelling arguments to achieve a winning track record for her clients. Recognizing that divorce is a watershed moment because day-to-day life will never be the same, Jochner strives to be a compelling voice for her clients. She says, “Every client’s story is unique, and I carefully listen so that I can be the strong voice to tell that story so that it resonates with the court. That, combined with rocksolid research, writing, strategy and credibility is tough to beat.”

For more information, visit sdflaw.com/team/detail/michele-jochner.

TANYA STANISH

SENIOR PARTNER

SCHILLER DUCANTO & FLECK LLP

Tanya Stanish describes her profession as a family crisis manager, otherwise known as a divorce lawyer. Practicing for nearly 30 years, she has become a highly experienced negotiator and formidable litigator who represents a wide array of clients, from high-profile executives and Chicago’s talented athletes and music artists to business owners, spouses with generational wealth, and stay at-home parents. Her work includes every aspect of complex family law, including executive compensation plans, trusts and business interests, and high conflict child custody and parenting issues. Stanish’s combination of litigation and settlement expertise is rare among family law attorneys. If settlement fails, she has the skills and ability to handle intricate cases in the courtroom that many lawyers avoid or find difficult to present. She’s also taken over many cases from other divorce attorneys who prefer not to litigate against a contentious spouse or aggressive opposing counsel. “I am often sought out to represent a client who has a difficult spouse or a litigious attorney on the other side and sometimes you have to fight fire with fire,” Stanish says. “While my litigation skills are preeminent, I successfully negotiate most of my cases to resolution to the client’s satisfaction. Only a handful of cases need the courtroom.” Her strong integrity helps a client get to a resolution by way of facts and law. Stanish appreciates the many “best lawyers” awards she has received for her work as an attorney, but what’s most important to her are the letters and notes of appreciation from clients for the work she’s done for them. “They really touch me because I know that I have made a positive difference in someone’s life and have successfully gotten them through one of their toughest moments,” Stanish says.

For more information, visit sdflaw.com/team/detail/ tanya-stanish/bio.

JEFFREY J. KROLL

KAVENY

+ KROLL, LLC

Award-winning trial attorney, Jeffrey J. Kroll, has represented injured victims or deceased family members throughout the state and country in the areas of transportation law, medical malpractice, premise liability, product liability, and other disciplines of personal injury law. Kroll has obtained well over $550 million dollars in verdicts and settlements, including a record breaking $148,000,000 verdict on behalf of a dancer paralyzed by a shelter collapse at O’Hare International Airport. This is the highest compensatory award to an individual in Illinois history. Kroll regularly handles complex damage cases and has received multi-million-dollar verdicts and settlements. Kroll obtained a $15.2 million verdict on behalf of a man who was seriously injured when he was struck and run over by a forklift at McCormick Place Convention Center in Chicago. He obtained a $5.25 million dollar verdict in the first U.S. bike share death. During his career, he has obtained verdicts or negotiated settlements on over 80 occasions where the results have exceeded $1 million, including six cases which have exceeded $10 million. Kroll has also published more than 140 articles for lawyers and lectured to lawyers and bar associations groups throughout the country on more than 170 occasions. He is well known in not only the Chicago media but is a highly sought-after legal commentator, making frequent national media appearances to provide in-depth legal insight and analysis of trial topics and current events. He has been interviewed in countless television and radio segments, podcasts, and publications. In the past, he has taught at Northwestern, DePaul and John Marshall Law Schools. “I have been fortunate to have taken to verdict over 100 cases in my career. I still love doing it. It is the greatest rush knowing that you represent an individual and you are competing against a large corporation or hospital when they have denied any wrongdoing,” he says.

For more information, visit kavenykroll.com.

MICHAEL L. LODERMEIER

MICHAEL L. LODERMEIER, P.C.

Michael L. Lodermeier has been named an Illinois Super Lawyer since 2008 and is an active member of the Illinois State Bar Association, DuPage County Bar Association, and Kane County Bar Association. He received his Juris Doctorate from The John Marshall Law School, and a bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin, Eau Claire. For more than 20 years, Lodermeier has been successfully practicing family and divorce law, where he uses his considerable expertise in divorce, paternity, custody, child support, and asset discovery. He has worked on countless cases, skillfully and efficiently conducting trials, depositions, hearings, and emergency hearings. His diverse client base ranges from high-net-worth individuals to clients with more modest means, and he treats each client with the same dedication to success. “I identify with and understand all of the aspects of a divorce, encompassing both the legal and nonlegal factors,” he says. “Then I develop and execute on a plan to maximize the results for my clients.” By listening closely to his clients and understanding what is important to them, Lodermeier has built a solid book of business primarily through referrals from colleagues and past clients. “It was early in my career that I found that divorce and family law allowed me to be a positive and guiding light for someone living through one their darkest moments,” he says.

For more information, visit mllfamilylaw.com.

FRANK MORRISSEY

FOUNDING PARTNER

MORRISSEY LEGAL GROUP LLC

Frank Morrissey, founding partner of Morrissey Legal Group LLC in Chicago and Oak Brook, has been told by judges, juries, and lawyers that he conducts himself as if every case was the most important in his life. “It is very rewarding to help families and individuals find a way to get answers when and if their loved ones have suffered a medical or personal injury—then being able to get them fair and just compensation for their loss,” says Morrissey, whose firm specializing in malpractice, birth injury, and personal injury has helped secure more than $200 million in settlements for individuals and families. He is known for his ability to empathize with the families he works with, which in part could be attributed to his Jesuit education. “I was educated by the Jesuits throughout my entire academic career,” says Morrissey, who attended the College of the Holy Cross in Massachusetts and Loyola University Chicago School of Law. “Jesuits educate students to be ‘persons for others.’ This motto means we have work to do to help each other heal and build up the world. I believe I am playing my small part in doing this by being a lawyer.” Today, he is licensed in Illinois and admitted to practice before all the U.S. District Courts in Illinois as well as before the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 7th Circuit. In addition to serving as past president of the Illinois Society of Trial Lawyers and the Celtic Lawyers Society, he gives back to the community by volunteering at a “Saturday Meals Program” at a local church. “We plan the meals, cook, and serve others in our community,” adds Morrissey. “It is a good way to spend quality time with family and neighbors while helping others in the community.”

For more information, visit morrisseylegalgroup.com.

ALLYSON RUSSO

RUSSO LAW OFFICES LLC

Allyson Russo has practiced law for more than 20 years and holds a B.A. from Boston College, a J.D. from the University of Michigan Law School, and an LL.M from Northwestern Pritzker School of Law. Russo Law Offices assists individuals, families, and businesses in preparing for the future. “Life has unexpected obstacles, so it’s our mission to help make sure your family and livelihood are secure,” she says. Her practice is focused on the areas of estate planning, estate administration, and probate. Russo credits her success to being a good listener and to assessing challenges in an unbiased way, leading to good outcomes for clients. Over the last nine years Russo has grown the Russo Law Offices, and she says she is always a person who is looking for what’s next, which has helped her business expand and allows her to best serve clients. “I focus on providing a good balance of listening, working to achieve my client’s goals, and offering 20-plus years of experience to navigate difficult family situations,” Russo says. Estate planning, she adds, is about taking control and making choices. “I want my clients to know that they have a plan in place for protecting their family, so that they can live and enjoy life to the fullest.”

For more information, visit russolaw.com.

NADIA SHAMSI

OWNER

SILA FAMILY LAW LLC

Attorney Nadia Shamsi prides herself on helping people navigate some of the hardest chapters in their lives. “I want to be there to support their goals, protect their families, and get them to the end of the tunnel,” explains Shamsi, a Hinsdale resident whose practice is focused exclusively on family law. “I truly care about the people in my neighborhood, what they are going through, and I care about their families.” With legal expertise that ranges from complex high-asset divorces, post-decree modifications and enforcement, contested parentage cases, custody and visitation issues, grandparent visitation, maintenance and child support, pre- and post-nuptial agreements, and orders of protection, Shamsi has been recognized as a Rising Star by the American Institute of Legal Advocates and named an Emerging Lawyer four years in a row. A Certified Financial Litigator and a member of the American Academy for Certified Financial Litigators, she was inspired to become a lawyer after watching the struggles her father endured more than 20 years ago when someone stole money from his business. “My father had formed his company with his best friend shortly after arriving in the United States from England. This business was my dad’s entire world— his livelihood,” she explains. “My father retained an incredible attorney, who helped him navigate a difficult time in our lives as a family. When the matter was done, and my dad got his money back, I remember him telling me to become an attorney, and help people like his attorney helped our family.” That’s exactly what she did and she continues to help others, whether it’s through her practice or service to the community. In addition to volunteering at the Hinsdale History Museum and her involvement with the Hinsdale Historical Society, Shamsi is on the Ambassador’s Board of Legal Aid Chicago, which provides free civil legal services to people living in poverty.

For more information, visit silafamilylaw.com.

WILL STOGSDILL

STOGSDILL LAW FIRM, P.C.

Like all of the attorneys at the Stogsdill Law Firm, P.C., Will Stogsdill is deeply connected to the community, and possesses strong family values. As a teenager, Stogsdill worked summers and school breaks at the Stogsdill Law Firm, P.C., before returning in 2012, as an attorney. Stogsdill graduated from Clemson University with a degree in financial management, which provides him with the background to help clients navigate complex financial cases. Prior to joining the firm as an attorney, Stogsdill was an Assistant State’s Attorney for the Criminal Prosecutions Bureau in DuPage County, where he honed his trial skills and represented the people of DuPage County with integrity and a strong moral compass. Stogsdill understands how overwhelming the divorce process is for most people, and prides himself on his ability to devise a strategy tailored to his client’s needs, from the first meeting to the conclusion of the case. His strategic planning, excellent trial skills, and strong financial background make Stogsdill an outstanding advocate for his clients and their families. Stogdill’s most fulfilling reward in representing clients is when he obtains the best results for his clients, due to his strategic planning in guiding his clients through the divorce process. Consistently selected and recognized with awards from peer selection organizations as a top attorney in family law, including Super Lawyers, Leading Lawyers, and various other organizations, Stogsdill continues to focus on his client’s needs to resolve issues including, but not limited to, complex financial issues, business valuations, parental decision-making and parenting time, asset tracing, division of retirement benefits, and income identification.

For more information, visit stogsdilllaw.com.

Kris Berger Presents:

208 E 6th Street, Hinsdale

Nestled in Southeast Hinsdale, 208 East 6th Street is a timeless, historic residence. Designed by architect Benjamin H. Marshall, this home offers elegance and convenience, near town, train, schools, and more. It features an old-world English Tudor design with a brick exterior from old Madison Street, a red terracotta roof, and formal English gardens. The property includes an in-ground pool, a 2-car garage with a 2-bedroom coach house, and a spacious corner lot.

Inside, you’ll find exquisite details like English oak flooring, leaded glass windows, and antique wood doors. The living spaces are highlighted by a carved oak fireplace, a sun room with heated floors, a chef’s kitchen, and a library with a wood-burning fireplace. Designed by Craig Bergmann, the English gardens feature a sunken fountain, stone pathways, and lush plantings. This nearly one acre property is truly a oncein-a-lifetime offering.

A SMALL WONDER

It’s time to come out of mourning. Although Paul Virant’s immortal Western Springs restaurant Vie is no more, its French cousin, Petite Vie Brasserie, will remind you why there’s no place quite like a great French brasserie.

WORDS BY PETER AND KATE MICHAEL / PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBIN SUBAR

When word reached my Instagram feed last year that chef Paul Virant planned on shuttering his farm-to-table miracle, Vie, in Western Springs, I didn’t take the news particularly well. Restaurants come and great restaurants go, but I’d argue Vie was one of the most remarkable suburban restaurants of the last two decades.

Although Virant immediately announced that Vie would return in a new form— i.e., his new French brasserie, Petite Vie, located less than two minutes away from the original—the memories of past delicacies came rushing back to me.

You had to be there, back in the mid-2000s, to understand just how bold and beguiling Vie’s opening menus truly were. No one— and I do mean no one— was cooking quite like Virant back then, especially not in the western suburbs. I wrote an early review of Vie that heralded Virant as a Michelin-star talent with a Cracker Barrel soul. And I meant every syllable.

Virant invented, or in the very least resurrected, a sub-genre of Midwestern cooking I’d call modern prairie-style fare. The man loves pickling things, pan-frying seafood and—my Lord— what that boy could do with a wood-fired oven and some odd bits of pork. Although Vie’s posh interior felt like it was inspired by a wing at Versailles—crystal chandeliers throwing rainbows against stark white banquettes—his menus tasted like he was trying to ghostwrite a cookbook for Willa Cather.

Slow-roasted pork belly served with whole-grain mustard jam. Salads dressed with pickled tomato vinaigrettes. Charcuterie plates smeared with malty beer jams. A French-style cassoulet made with

Halibut Veronique

A corner of Paris sans overnight flight

Midwestern beans and homemade sausage. And who could forget Virant’s gooey butter cakes, a relic of his early days growing up in Missouri?

Virant can cook with the best of ’em—note his four James Beard nominations—but he’s also as disarmingly earnest as the local farmers and food artisans he used to list, night after night, on the bottom of his menus.

The good news, after recently visiting Petite Vie, is that he hasn’t lost his deft touch.

It was ultimately a dispute with his old landlord, Virant says, that led him to shutter his flagship restaurant and open Petite Vie Brasserie in a new building, which he now owns. Virant’s wife, Jennifer, along with interior designer Jody Tate , have filled the space with a few of my favorite things. Classy black-and-white etchings of European streetscapes. Shelves lined with Frenchinspired curious, including statues of rabbits in mid-gallop and giant French mushrooms. There’s a clock that looks as if it was plucked from a Victorian-era train station. And a cozy backroom that pays tribute to the original Vie’s look and feel, only this time every table

DINNER DATE

is illuminated, Barry Lyndon-style, with flickering candles.

And then there’s the menu, which is unabashedly French but filled with plenty of “Virant-isms.” A brasserie must serve roasted chicken—it’s a veritable French commandment—but how many places near us serve their birds with a sauce made from vin jaune, a crisp, bone-dry white wine from eastern France? Or for that matter make homemade Grand Marnier ice creams that taste like a frosted version of a sidecar cocktail from the bar?

As a young chef, Virant worked under

Cocktails

Cesser:

How many different herbal notes can you fit in one coupe glass? If this blend of Herbal green chartreuse, brambly crème de cassis noir and straight gin doesn’t win the prize, we don’t know what will. It’s slightly sweet— liquified sugar plums and macerated berries—but may be the best dessert cocktail around to pair with Virant’s gorgeous citrus tarts.

An incredibly breezy and tropical sipper, the real star of this summer cocktail isn’t the tequila or ginger liqueur or Cointreau, it’s the inclusion of Giffard pineapple liqueur, which adds notes of candied pineapple and spiced rum. The French tropics, indeed.

Lever Du Soleil:

Tourtons du Champsaur

Scallops Grenobloise

Pork Chasseur

DINNER DATE

three legendary chefs—Gabino Sotelino of Ambria, Jean Joho of Everest and Charlie Trotter—but he logged those shifts decades ago. So, in preparation for launching Petite Vie, which is helmed by one of his longtime kitchen collaborators, chef Vinny Gerace, Virant and his team flew back to France this past February.

The dishes Virant chose to import are telling. Full confession: I’ve never eaten tourtons du Champsaur before. They are tiny frieddough snacks often enjoyed during the holidays in the southern French Alps. At Le Petite Vie, each little pillow looks like a crispy beignet but conceals a little pocket of mashed potatoes blended with Tomme cheese. Imagine a toasted ravioli cross-pollinated with a Spanish croquette. Addictive, exotic, delicious.

Although Virant says he wants to keep things unapologetically rustic—“not a lot of components, not a lot of manipulation,” he says—I think he’s working very hard to bring a lighter touch to some old-school Escoffier classics. Normally, I tend to make my sole veronique with a touch of heavy cream or crème fraiche; Virant swaps in halibut for the sole and excises the cream, using a silky vermouth butter instead. His pork tenderloin chasseur isn’t the least bit stewy, but you must appreciate the addition of sundried tomatoes, which adds an undercurrent of umami and smoke.

And then there’s his foie gras mousse, which doesn’t have the airy texture of whipped butter; it’s looser and more velvety, like a partially set pudding. Spread it on a toast point, making sure to add some of Virant’s sauternes gelée or a touch of his apricot-honey compote, and you’ve got a slick variation on a French peanut butter and jelly sandwich.

If Vie’s offerings challenged us, year after year, to consider the possibility that there was more to Midwestern cooking that

steak and taters, Petite Vie’s menu is more wistful and nostalgic. Interesting, isn’t it, that the word “vie” in French means “life?”

And that Virant, in launching this second iteration of Vie, has resurrected homespun French cooking for a new generation in the very same suburb that changed his professional career.

Something tells me that my old memories of Vie meals long past will never fade and that new and delicious ones will, in typical Virant style, help preserve and enhance the flavors of those that came before.

Petite Vie Brasserie is located at 909 Burlington Ave, Western Springs. Call 708.260.7017 or visit petite-vie.com/.

Profiteroles

Seasonal Tart

Judy Tate’s collected interior design

Caption

BEYOND THE HORIZON

Unveiling the Charms of

Newport Harbor Island Resort

WORDS BY GENEVIVE DUREAU

As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the tranquil waters of Newport Harbor, I found myself immersed in the serene beauty of Goat Island. Nestled within this idyllic setting stood Newport Harbor Island Resort, a beacon of seaside luxury beckoning travelers to indulge in the quintessential New England coastal experience.

Surrounded on three sides by shimmering waters and boasting panoramic views of Newport Harbor, the resort exuded a sense of timeless elegance. Its recent transformation, spearheaded by Dawn Design Associates, had breathed new life into every facet

of the property. From the expansive guestrooms and suites to the contemporary Spa, reimagined culinary offerings, and the newly refurbished 22-slip marina, every detail had been meticulously curated to ensure an unparalleled guest experience.

Stepping foot onto the grounds of Newport Harbor Island Resort felt like entering a world of refined luxury and understated sophistication. The lobby, adorned with nautical accents and subtle maritime touches, welcomed me with open arms, setting the tone for a memorable stay ahead. As I made my way to my accommodations, I couldn’t help but marvel at the seamless blend of modern

View of Newport Harbor from Guest Room

JOURNEYS

amenities and historic charm that permeated every corner of the resort.

Over the course of my stay, I had the pleasure of partaking in a myriad of activities and experiences tailored to my interests. From leisurely strolls along the waterfront promenade to exhilarating sailing excursions on the bay, there was no shortage of ways to immerse myself in the natural beauty of Newport.

One of the highlights of my time at Newport Harbor Island Resort was the array of dining options available to guests. Whether savoring locally sourced seafood at the upscale 1639 restaurant or enjoying light bites and cocktails at the laid-back Pineapple Club, each meal was a culinary delight. The Torpedo Bar & Lounge, with its contemporary maritime

decor and panoramic views of the harbor, quickly became a favorite spot to unwind after a day of exploration.

In between activities, I took full advantage of the resort’s world-class amenities. The state-of-the-art fitness center provided the perfect opportunity to stay active, while the indoor and outdoor pools offered a refreshing escape from the summer heat. For moments of relaxation and rejuvenation, the Spa beckoned with its menu of indulgent treatments and serene atmosphere.

As the days turned into evenings, I found myself drawn to the vibrant energy of downtown Newport. Just a short walk from the resort, the charming streets were lined with quaint shops, art galleries, and historic landmarks waiting to be discovered. From sunset cruises on the bay to live music performances at local pubs, there was always something exciting happening in this bustling seaside town.

But amidst the hustle and bustle of downtown Newport, Newport Harbor Island Resort remained a serene sanctuary, offering a welcome retreat from the rigors of daily life. Whether lounging by the pool with a thirst quenching cocktail in hand or enjoying a leisurely

Torpedo Lounge

Private terrace with an ocean breeze

Suite layout

JOURNEYS

bike ride along the waterfront, I reveled in the simple pleasures of island living.

As my time at Newport Harbor Island Resort drew to a close, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of gratitude for the memories made and experiences shared. From the breathtaking beauty of Goat Island to the warm hospitality of the resort staff, every moment had been nothing short of magical. As I bid farewell to this coastal paradise, I carried with me the promise of returning one day soon, eager to once again lose myself in the timeless allure of Newport Harbor Island Resort.

Guest Bathroom

Resturant 1639

First floor of suite

LIVING & GIVING

Chicago Rita Hayworth Gala

More than 350 guests gathered for an energetic evening filled with Hollywood glamour at The Old Post Office. This year’s gala paid homage to Rita Hayworth’s illustrious legacy and her battle with Alzheimer’s disease. Emceed by Chicago Bulls’ assistant coach John Bryant, the gala was hosted by Princess Yasmin Aga Khan, daughter of legendary Rita Hayworth, alongside chairs Lori and Craig Stern, longtime champions of the Association’s mission and raised nearly $900,000 for the Alzheimer’s Association. Every year, the Alzheimer’s Association recognizes and honors individuals who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to the cause. This year, Hinsdale residents Susan and Jim Draddy received the prestigious Philanthropy Award for their outstanding contributions spanning 15 years. As they were being honored, each member of the Draddy family shared their personal reflections on the profound impact of Alzheimer’s in their lives and underscored the crucial role played by the Alzheimer’s Association. “Many of you have experiences similar to ours,” said Jim Draddy. “Early on you recognized how critical funding is to broaden the effort to find a cure. Your support and contributions make possible the extensive and wide-ranging types of research that have brought us to this critical junction.” alz.org/chicagogala

Photography by Purple Photo Group

The Draddy family

Jim & Susan Draddy, Fifi & Ron Levin

Steve & Gina Brescia

LIVING & GIVING

Princess Yasmin Aga Khan

Monte & Lisa Henige, Peggy Fuechtman, James & Kim Mercurio

The Draddy family with friends on the dance floor

Sara Draddy, Elizabeth Dziedzic

Cathleen Healy, Theresa DeMaria

Heather Shalgos, Kirsten Kapelinski, Gina Brescia

Chris & Peggy James, James & Kim Mercurio

LIVING & GIVING

It’s A Wrap

Hinsdale Junior Woman’s Club (HJWC) members spilled onto the La Barra patio to celebrate hundreds of hours of service to the community in the 2023-24 year. HJWC raised more than $300,000 for local charitable organizations and scholarships for young women. Philanthropy Chairs Michelle Riley and Jori Horn shared an incredible list of what the grants funded; from adult sport wheelchairs to mattresses and bedframes, the hard work of many will positively impact hundreds of people for years to come. Look for more inspiring events and fabulous fundraisers from HJWC when the 75th anniversary year kicks off in September. hjwc.us

Photography by Ian McLeod

Ha-Andza Young, Michelle Riley, Jori Horn, Alex Laroia

Erica Weaver, Rosemary Rojas

Simona Garcia, Emily Iantosca

Kayla Schumacher, Olya Borsuk

Denise Marron, Kristin Dudek, Emily Campbell

LIVING & GIVING

Graceful Gatherings

From the early birds at the Premium Preview, to the VIPs aboard the trolley, hundreds of beautifully dressed ladies kicked off Mother’s Day weekend at the Hinsdale Kitchen Walk. Chaired this year by Stephanie Tuthill, Alicia O’Brien, Amanda Mancini, and Anne Otzen, it was as lovely a day as could be and wildly successful. The presenting organization, the Women’s Board of the Hinsdale Historical Society (HHS) currently has a special focus on raising funds to insulate the R. Harold Zook Home and Studio. With this incredible day, HHS is closer to this noble goal. kitchen-walk.com

Photography by Ian McLeod

Emily Bower, Anne Otzen, Alicia O’Brien, Stephanie Tuthill, Amanda Mancini

Erica Kallman, Lauren Patzer, Mandy Steinmetz, Sonia Kolzow

Sabrina Potempa, Maureen Potempa

Meghan Piercy, Lauren Jebsen

Sasmita Cramer, Mimmi Ebong, Toral Tuli

LIVING & GIVING

Katie Schaefer, Anjoli Siller

Kate Huntley, Sharon Malone

Yvonne Sopp, Allie Sopp

Alison Kozlow, Courtney Casey, Aubrey McCarthy

Christine Gebauer, Dana Martin George, Christina Angelos, Jen Diver

Ashley Campbell, Robin Moore, Elise Wozniak, Gina Hardy

Mistie Psaledas, Allison Dolph

Colleen Bentley, Sarah Johnston, Lexie Cooper, Kathleen Pesa

Gina Duman, Lauren East

LIVING & GIVING

Walk for Wellness House

One of the most meaningful days of the year is always a Sunday in May, when people of all ages band together to Walk for Wellness House. Many have deeply personal stories of resilience, remembrance, or both from their own cancer battle or that of a relative or friend. Chairs Mahrukh Hussain and Dr. Arpi Thukral led the crowd in honoring all. This year featured new engagement features for young walkers alongside familiar faces including Presenting Sponsor, The Inland Real Estate Group of Companies. The walk, which itself is always special, is particularly meaningful to Inland in honor of lead founder and committed philanthropist, Dan Goodwin. To honor Dan, this year’s walk shirts carried a DAN emblem over the heart, and each member of the Inland Team of employees and affiliates wore special caps with the DAN emblem to honor his dedication and support of Wellness House over the years. wellnesshouse.org

Photography by Ian McLeod

The Murray Family

The Grzelakowski Family

Lauren Houder, Lori Naccarato

The Allegra Family

Event Dignitaries

Team “‘Marvelous F2”

David Coulombre, Hariklia Horwath, Yanet Espitia, with Solis

The Ignace-Neddermeyer Family

The Tessalone Family

LIVING & GIVING

Meet Me In Manhattan

Supporters of Scoreboard Charities filled Ruth Lake Country Club to enjoy a bourbon tasting experience like no other. This spirited evening was a rousing success, adding to the impressive $1.7 million the organization has raised over the years. Funds support Camp One Step and research at Northwestern Medicine. Founders Rick and Dianna Heinz want to see cancer defeated in this lifetime, and their tireless efforts are truly making an impact.

scoreboardcharities.com

Photography by Ian McLeod