Hinsdale Living, December 2022

Opposing viewpoints.

The most difficult decisions require the most trusted attorneys.

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The St. Regis logos are the trademarks of Marriott International, Inc ., or its affiliates. The Residences at The St. Regis Chicago are not owned, developed or sold by Marriott International, Inc. or its affiliates(“Marriott”). The developer of the residential project, Parcel C LLC,Dev License #2418452, uses the St. Regis marks under a license from Marriott,which has not confirmed the accuracy of any of the statements or representations made about the project. If this license is terminated or expires without renewal, the residential project will no longer be associated with, or have any right to use, the St. Regis tradenames or trademarks. Sales by Magellan Marketing Group.

Ultra-luxurious lakefront residences, from 1,097 SF pieds-à-terre to full floor, 6,800 SF, 360°-view penthouses.

CREATE THE HOME OF YOUR DREAMS RIGHT WHERE YOU ARE

American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry • Board Examiner and Diplomate of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry • University of Michigan-BA and DDS • University of Illinois-Chicago MS and Diploma Pediatric Dentistry • Northwestern University-MBA

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

• 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

• Joined Brush Pediatric Dentistry in 2022 • University of Illinois- BS • University of Illinois-Chicago, DMD, MS, and Diploma Pediatric Dentistry

DR. ANDREINA KARMANCHANDI DR. STEPHANIE BOLLOW

2026 N MOHAWK ST

7 Beds | 6.4 Baths • $9,500,000

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Double lot, 11,000 sf home on coveted East Lincoln Park block. Amazing interior width with custom windows, tall doors, high ceilings, and elevator. Fantastic design for entertaining with gracious living and dining rooms. Easy access to outdoor space from large kitchen/great room. 2nd level with 4 bedrooms, 3 ensuite baths, playroom, powder room and laundry. Top floor primary suite with 2 walk-in closets, white bath, exercise room, + bedroom and den. LL with guest suite, theater, game room, and play space. Attached 4 car heated garage with fab mud room. Close to Oz, Parker, Latin and Lincoln!

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This one-of-a-kind 3/4 floor home at 30 W Oak offers luxurious living with truly unbelievable views and outdoor space. Completely redesigned by interior designer Kara Mann and builder Rick Juneau, with absolutely no detail spared. 10’ high ceilings, heated concrete flooring, and panoramic city views compliment wide-open living areas, creating the perfect space to live and entertain. Custom white kitchen offers top-of-the-line appliances plus a built-in breakfast table leads to the spacious terrace. 2 generously-sized bedrooms, plus a fab office and wine room. Premiere parking for three cars!

the architect

Siblings Wallace and Julie enjoy a favorite winter tradition in their front yard, where they take on the challenge of building the neighborhood's best snowman.

What do you love most about your home? Share with us on Instagram.

TACORI Crescent Eclipse Collection

Classic and timeless design with a modern twist

Let Fresh Twist Studio be your go to destination for all things home, whether you are a homeowner, a designer, or a builder. We are a strong team of interior designers who specialize in new home builds, furniture, and window treatments.

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Happy Holidays

RIO LEWIS

Hinsdale’s own American Girl. The beloved company’s newest doll, Claudie Wells, is modeled on this vivacious local star.

Rio Lewis

Photography by Katrina Wittkamp

Styling by Theresa DeMaria

Hair and Makeup by Cathleen Healy

Dress by Ava and Yelly at Neiman Marcus

Rio Lewis Dress by Zara

Founder & Publisher J.W. CONATSER

Associate Publisher GRETCHEN BARNARD

Managing Editor MICHELLE CROWE

Senior Fashion Editor THERESA DEMARIA

Style Editor LAUREN DEMARIA

Beauty Editor ALLISON DUNCAN

Contributing Editors ELAINE DOREMUS DUSTIN O’REGAN KEMMIE RYAN SHERRY THOMAS MEGAN WEISBERG

Contributing Writers TRICIA DESPRES MITCH HURST JANIS MVK

Production Manager / Graphic Designer LINDA LEWIS

Advertising Coordinator / Graphic Designer CHRIS GEIMER Graphic Designer SAM SUAREZ

Contributing Photographers IAN MCLEOD ROBIN SUBAR K ATRINA WITTKAMP

Administrative Assistant CHEYANNE LENCIONI

Advertising Sales JENNIFER STURGEON

My Clients Say it Best -

“

Linda is amazing! I worked with her 20 years ago when I purchased a house from her and again recently when she sold my house. She really listens to her clients and delivers exactly what you want and need. She made selling my house stress and hassle free. She’s reliable, honest, trustworthy, and easy to work with, plus has a keen sense of the market. Her support team is just as great. Overall, I can’t express my gratitude for not only selling, but finding my family a beautiful home . ” — Haydee Muse, M.D.

December always arrives with style, all twinkling lights and mailboxes overflowing with holiday cards. It’s such a wonderful time of year, with the Hinsdale Christmas Walk, Clarendon Hills Christmas Walk and special events filling the calendar at both Oakbrook Center and Burr Ridge Village Center.

In between the hustle and bustle of parties and good deeds, we hope you’ll spend a bit of time with this issue, which is positively packed with some of the most interesting people around.

A star is born in Rio Lewis, the Hinsdale Middle School student on whom Claudie Wells, the newest American Girl doll is modeled. Rio, like Claudie, is a multi-hyphenate. She dances, acts, sings, plays the trumpet, and is an avid reader. She is the perfect Claudie, who has a backstory set in the

section introduces us to Hinsdale's

Kristin Maggio, a working mother of four who is so stylish and amusing you’ll likely find yourself re-reading her tips for where to go.

Dinner Date takes us to Il Mio, the downtown Clarendon Hills hot spot, where the food is fresh and the service is old school.

Some of our favorite professionals offer excellent advice to appreciate. Dr. Mira Albert and her team at Brush Pediatric Dentistry are such a valuable resource for parents and children. Our friends at Hindman have excellent tips in Collector’s Corner

The season has been incredible for fundraisers and gala goers. We’ve captured many of the highlights in our Living + Giving coverage.

Wishing you the happiest of holidays.

Enjoy the pictures, and good reading.

J.W. Conatser

Pelvic organ prolapse

Urinary incontinence

Overactive bladder

Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTI)

Talk of the Town

After picking the perfect presents, make sure they look simply spectacular under the tree. Some wrap stars save this task for themselves, stocking up on pretty papers, lovely ribbons, and lavish gift tags. As with anything during the month of December, if you don’t love it, don’t do it. Many local boutiques will wrap gifts for you or visit the enterprising junior boards whose members volunteer their wrapping services to raise money for important organizations. If all else fails, drop off your goodies at Sass-NClass for full-service wrapping. Take all the credit. They’ll never tell. 19 West First Street, Hinsdale, 630.655.2420, sass-n-class.net.

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

DECEMBER 1

HAVANA NIGHTS

WHERE: Drury Lane Oak Brook

WHEN: 6:30 p.m. TICKETS: $150 The Simply From The Heart Gala invites supporters, strong and inspiring survivors, community leaders, family and friends to don their Havanainspired best and celebrate the mission of providing inner healing to hospitalized patients. sftheart.org

DECEMBER 3

THE HOLIDAY BALL

WHERE: The Community House

WHEN: 6:30 p.m. TICKETS: $400 Ring in the season at The Community House. This formal event, which features dinner, dancing, and fun traditions that strike the perfect

AGENDA

note between nostalgia and now. This year’s theme “Merry and Bright” will be brought to life through brilliant decorations and the high spirits of attendees. The Community House delivers quality recreational, social, educational, cultural programs, and equitable access to social services. This treasured resource is privately funded, and your support of The Holiday Ball will support the mission of The Community House and continue to provide counseling services and resources to those who need them. Start your holiday season at the best party of the year. thecommunityhouse.org

DECEMBER 10 HINSDALE’S JOLLY BOYS

WHERE: Hinsdale Public Library

WHEN: 3:00 p.m. TICKETS: Free Enjoy a cup of hot chocolate and a performance of holiday favorites by the Jolly Boys. Founded by servicemen returning home from World War II, the Jolly Boys have been entertaining listeners for 75 years. hinsdalelibrary.info

DECEMBER 11

JUNIORS JINGLE DASH

WHERE: Robbins Park

WHEN: 8:00 a.m. TICKETS: $40

Dress in your most festive holiday gear and join Hin sdale Junior Woman’s Club in supporting area students in their college education endeavors. The second run ning of the Juniors Jingle Dash Community 5K Walk and Run is a great excuse to

get some fresh air and raise money for college scholar ships for area high school students. The race will begin and end in Robbins Park with post-race snacks and a special photo opportunity with Santa and Mrs. Claus at the finish line.

runsignup.com/Race/IL/Hins dale/JuniorsJingleDash

DECEMBER 28

TEAS & TIARAS

WHERE: The Drake Oak Brook

WHEN: 2:00 – 5:00 p.m. TICKETS: $32/children $58/ adults

This first-ever princess tea party will include tiaras and special teacups for young royals. Enjoy chef’s special holiday treats served in traditional high tea style in a beautiful setting.

thedrakeoakbrookhotel.com

THE HOLIDAY BALL DECEMBER 3

Real estate agents affiliated with Coldwell Banker Realty are independent contractor sales associates, not employees. ©2022 Coldwell Banker Realty. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Realty fully supports the principles of the Fair Hous ing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Owned by a subsidiary of Realogy Brokerage Group LLC. Coldwell Banker, the Coldwell Banker logo, Coldwell Banker Global Luxury and the Coldwell Banker Global Luxury logo are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. *Source: #1 Team in Illinois among all brokerages ranked by Wall Street

BOOK IT

The Swissôtel Chicago Santa Suite is back and it’s the perfect spot for a city chic staycation with an extra sprinkle of magic. For its ninth consecutive season, Jolly Old Saint Nick will be checking in to Swissôtel Chicago’s 2,000-square-foot Presidential Suite, debuting an overthe-top Chicago theme. Guests are invited to visit Santa’s Presidential Pad to enjoy the numerous glistening Christmas trees complimented by sweeping views of the magical cityscape, Chicago River, and Lake Michigan. Stay where Santa calls home when he visits the Windy City and cozy up in your very own penthouse guestroom overlooking the most magical winter cityscape. Guests will be welcomed with a cheerful pop of Champagne, holiday treats, toys, games, holiday crafts, letter writing to Santa, cookie decorating and a build your own Swiss hot cocoa bar. Wake up to daily in-room breakfast. In addition, overnight parking and a $50 donation to SOS Children’s Villages Illinois are included in the package, available to book Mondays through Thursdays until December 28. www.swissotelchicagosantasuite.com

GIFT IT

Here Here Market is the next generation marketplace for true food enthusiasts and go to website to purchase food gift boxes, artisan food products and other culinary delights from your favorite chefs, restaurateurs and food artisans, a large majority of which are from Chicago favorites like Monteverde, El Che, Galit, and many more. Here Here Market also offers a huge selection of curated gifts like the Gourmet Pantry Collection, an incredible gift for a new neighbor, Books ‘n’ Bites for the avid reader, a Chicago High Tea offering, and the Tiny Tour of the city. Bookmark Here Here Market to stock your pantry for holiday entertaining and send everyone on your list unexpectedly fabulous gifts, all while supporting small and emerging brands. hereheremarket.com

The Swissôtel Chicago Santa Suite

Elevated Italian American Essentials

Here Here Market delivers

TRUST, TENURE , TRANSPARENCY

what my clients are saying:

“Many people come into the process of house hunting with a perception of what they’re looking for, without the eye to see what something can become. Shelly is the ‘eye’ for those people. She is quick to point out all the possibilities of a space that are not often seen by the everyday buyer. We enlisted Shelly to sell our property, knowing that it might be a hard sell because of an outdated treatment we had on our walls. Within a matter of days, our property was sold! Her creativity and positive attitude add an amazing touch to the experience of searching out the perfect space for her buyers. She is on top of everything, ready to respond at a moment’s notice and she was an absolute pleasure to work with on our sale. Her name would be the first I would give if anyone asked for the name of a REALTOR® who is professional, equally suited to buys or sales, and who makes it happen FAST! Thank you Shelly, for making this happen!” - Beth R. Whether

COUNTRY VS. TOWN

Kristin Maggio wears a black blouse and skirt by Ralph Lauren, Neiman Marcus Oakbrook Center

KRISTIN MAGGIO

grew up on the South Side of Chicago in the very Irish-Catholic neighborhood of Beverly. Living on the same block as her entire family kept everyone very close with Sunday dinners at her Grandparents house creating cherished memories. After elementary school, Kristin attended Culver Academies, a boarding school in Indiana, where she found a love of reading and her dearest friends. College in Iowa followed. Kristin majored in Elementary Education and served as a 4th grade teacher before becoming a paralegal at an iIntellectual property law firm. Kristin met her husband, J, on a blind date set up by her cousin in 2007. The couple married and started their family shortly thereafter. The Maggio family includes four children: Maddie (12), Jasper (9), and twins Rocco and Duke (6), plus two Bernedoodles named Oreo and Marty McFly. This power couple experienced the privilege of being part of the Burr Ridge and Clarendon Hills communities before settling in Hinsdale in 2018. When Kristin is not at home, she works in the sales office of a steel manufacturing plant. Work life balance is important to her, and she likes having the best of both worlds with a job that allows her to still be at events for her kids during the day when needed. Kristin enjoys volunteering with various organizations, including past stints with Hinsdale Junior Woman’s Club and Union Church Early Childhood Program and lots of time currently with Monroe School. Life with four kids and two dogs can be busy, but when not moonlighting as an Uber driver for the four Maggio kids, she and J love to cook and host friends for dinner.

EDITED BY MICHELLE CROWE / PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATRINA WITTKAMP STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA / HAIR & MAKEUP BY CATHLEEN HEALY

Mantra? Always be kind. You never know how a small interaction can change your life or someone else’s life. On your reading stack? James Pat terson is always a go to for me. I also enjoy Laine Moriarty, Shari Lapena and anything in the murder mystery genre. Podcast? I am a podcast junkie! My Favorite Murder, Crimi nal, This is Actually Happening Favorite workout? Pilates at Energie. Best grooming tip? There are too many… but dermaplaning is a must and you will rarely find me without

WHEN IN THE COUNTRY

Your style is? Preppy, Comfy, trying to look good while working, schlepping kids to and from activities ain’t easy. Favorite walk? Taking the dogs through Downtown Hinsdale, stopping at Café La Fortuna for coffee. Favorite sounds or soundtrack? Silence. Did I mention we have 4 kids and 2 dogs? Place to celebrate? Gibson’s Oakbrook. Best quick bite or hidden gem? Frankie’s Deli. Favorite festival or special event? Hinsdale’s Independence Day Parade. Best thing about the country? The friends and tightknit community. Worst thing about the country? Twoway stop signs. The perfect day is? Dropping off the kids at school, going for a walk and grabbing a coffee, get a no-chip manicure and pedicure at Nail Time, hair done by Matthew at Salon Lofts, then going to Nabuki for dinner.

a fresh manicure. Guilty pleasure? Dateline, Unsolved Mysteries, pretty much any true crime show. Have you noticed a theme? All the Real Housewives shows, which my husband pretends he doesn’t like. Music you love? David Gray, Lil’ Wayne, and what ever new music my husband has discovered. Advice you would give to your younger self? No child has ever died from crying.

WHEN IN TOWN

Your style is? Sleek, and a little edgier. Favorite walk? In and out of an Uber Black. Favorite sounds or soundtrack? Whatev er J is playing on Spotify. Place to celebrate? Joe’s Stone Crab. Best quick bite or hidden gem? Tu fano’s. Favorite festival or special event? Bull’s Games at the United Center. Shop? I love stopping in boutiques in all the different neighborhoods. Best thing about town? The energy. Worst thing about town? Traffic. The perfect day is? We don’t go downtown that much, but when we do, I love a quick staycation that typically involves some shopping, dinner at Joe’s Stone Crab, breakfast in bed, spa and then head back home.

Joe’s Stone Crab

Kristin wears a blue dress by Cinq et Sept, Neiman Marcus Oakbrook Center

BY ALLISON DUNCAN

EDITED

BY IAN MCLEOD

JIESI

PHOTOGRAPHY

COLLECTING WITH CONFIDENCE

EDITED BY MORGAN HOGERTY / PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATRINA WITTKAMP / STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA

Ahead of Hindman’s December Fine Art Sales, we spoke with Hindman’s Vice President and Senior Specialist of Fine Art Joe Stanfield and Director and Senior Specialist of Post-War & Contemporary Art Zack Wirsum about how to approach buying at auc tion and developing a collection.

Where does one start with buying at auction?

Joe Stanfield: Auction is one of the best ways to start collecting and is more fun than people might expect. I would recommend attending an auction preview and discussing the process with a specialist. We love nothing more than welcoming clients into the galleries after spending so much time selling virtually during the pandemic.

Zack Wirsum: Bidding at auction is quite simple and there are several different ways to do it. You can still bid live with a paddle during the sale, as many people might imagine when they think of an auction. Prior to the auction, you can also leave an absentee bid—the maximum amount that you would be willing to pay—that will be executed on your behalf by the auctioneer during the sale. Another option is to telephone bid. One of our team members will call you and bid as your proxy in real-time. Recently, more and more of our clients bid online using Hindman’s Digital Bid Room. No matter how you choose to participate, we love to see new bidders compete for property in our sales.

How does one know which artworks will be a good investment for their collection?

JS: We rarely suggest buying artworks specifically for investment. The best collections are built from the heart with love, time, and research on the artists that form the collection. That said, if you are interested in buying works that you hope go up in value, it is wise to see what market trends are happening. In recent years, there has been a well-overdue amount of attention paid to female artists and artists of color in the art market which is one area we see a lot of potential for growth. For example, we were blown away by the prices achieved in September’s sale of Gertrude Abercrombie paintings from the collection of Laura and Gary Maurer. With the major

ity of works selling for well above their estimates, it was clear that this female surrealist is continuing to rapidly gain attention. As an Abercrombie collector myself, it’s been very special to see how her market has flourished.

What are the pros of buying at auction?

ZW: Auction is an incredible place to buy art. But, of course, there are a number of venues where collectors can begin today—the choices can be overwhelming for everyone from the novice collector to the experi enced one. If you are interested in buying from a gallery, dealer, or an online platform so you can have the painting immediately irrespective of an auction calendar, that is certainly understandable. Most of our clients buy from auctions, art fairs, galleries, and more. I recommend that collec tors buy from both the primary and secondary markets to build a rich collection.

What are you looking forward to of fering this December?

JS: I am particularly excited about two works we have by Doris Emrick Lee, a renowned American figura tive painter and printmaker, that will be included in our December 7 American & European Art auction. The Art Institute of Chicago has one of her best paintings in its col lection which I have always loved. To top it off, we also had a large consignment of paintings by Lee in the very first sale I worked at Hindman in 2006 so I am somewhat nostalgic about her as well.

ZW: The December 14 Post War & Contemporary Art auction will feature a plethora of compelling works. I’m eager to see how a number of charming Abercrombie works will perform, and we also have outstanding works by Henry Moore, Sam Francis, Joan Snyder, and Alexander Calder to name just a few.

Hindman will present five Fine Art sales this December beginning with two photography sales on December 6: Eugène Atget Photographs Sold by the Museum of Fine Arts Houston; and Photographs. The following day on December 7, Hindman will present its American & European Art auction. The Post-War & Contemporary Art and Prints & Multiples auctions will take place the next week on December 14 and 15, respec tively. For more information, visit hindmanauctions.com.

Home for the Holidays

For decades, Mike McCurry has connected people with their homes. With the magic of the holiday season upon us, he has a special message for us all...

As the father of four hurdling-toward-adulthood children, it’s fair to say the day-to-day life inside our home is beginning to look a bit different. My oldest has left for college and the others are so engrained in activites and our community that is rarely feels like they’re home.

But that’s the beauty of home, isn’t it? No matter where our life takes us, no matter what season we are in - literally or figuratively - home is always our haven we can return to.

As you move through the busyness of this holiday season and its celebrations, whether you are the host or the guest, I encourage you to take a moment to appreciate your home. Reflect upon all it provides, the people it protects, the memories it houses, and the comfort it brings.

There really is no place like home.

A Living Doll

Hinsdale’s Very Own Triple Threat Rio Lewis Shines in the Spotlight of Stardom

WORDS BY TRICIA DESPRES PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATRINA WITTKAMP HAIR AND MAKEUP BY CATHLEEN HEALY

Seldom will one find Rio Lewis without a book in her hands.

“I love to read,” the 11-year-old with the beaming smile exclaims, adding, “Right now, I am re-reading the Keeper of the Lost Cities series of books because there’s a new volume coming out soon.”

The Hinsdale Middle School student then pulls the massive book out of her backpack, flipping through the pages as if she can’t wait to delve back into its imaginary places once again.

“During the process of working with American Girl, the team asked for a quick video of Rio talking about either her favorite historical figure or her favorite book,” Rio’s mom Didi Lewis says with a smile. “I knew that she would pick that book.”

What a full-circle moment for Rio’s work with the beloved brand to culminate in her likeness not only illustrating a book, as they thought it might, but that her image is the inspiration for American Girl’s newest doll Claudie Wells, and she appears on the cover of the hardcover book Meet Claudie, An American Girl, writ ten by New York Times bestselling author of The Vanishing Half Brit Bennett, and illustrated by Laura Freeman.

“That just might be the coolest part,” Rio gushes.

Granted, Lewis’ life thus far has in fact read like a storybook of sorts, as the sixth grader has found herself in the spotlight since she was just a little girl.

“She’s been modeling since she was four years old,” says Didi, whose son RJ Lewis also started modeling at a young age and is now starring in Amazon Prime’s new series A League of Their Own. “We found out about American Girl on the first day of school this year. I dropped Rio off at school and suddenly, my phone started blowing up because friends had received an American Girl email featuring a new doll that looked just like her.”

“I think I was reading when my mom told me,” adds Rio, who is now in the trumpet section of the school band after learning how to play it during the 20’s inspired American Girl shoot.

There is much to juggle right now for the Lewis family, who moved to Hinsdale just around the time Rio was entering kindergarten. Currently, both RJ and Rio are in demand across the country for a wide array of acting and modelling jobs.

“We don’t really talk about it too much,” Didi says quietly, admitting to the fact that the American Girl story did end up taking on ‘a life of its own,’ both locally and nationally. “So, a lot of times

our friends end up being surprised at what they see our kids doing.”

“One of my friends once texted me said, ‘That’s a big secret you kept,’” laughs Rio, who got to travel with her mom to New York City earlier this year to see her face firsthand, beaming all over the flagship store touting the brand’s newest character. “They never know where I might be.”

But make no mistake – the Lewis family is aware of the significance of the accomplishments of RJ and Rio, especially when they think about the fact that Rio is now the face of a black American Girl doll.

“Claudie Wells is the first black character with a positive backstory,” explains Didi of the American Girl character who grows up in the Harlem neighborhood of New York City in the early 1920s. “So, I think that’s really cool for Rio to be associated with that. For little black girls to see faces that look like them in the dolls and in the media and in a positive light? For a character to come out of an artistic period in black history?”

Didi stops for a moment to draw in a deep breath.

“It’s just pretty awesome for Rio to be a part of that.”

What might turn out to be even more awesome is the life that just might lie ahead for the talented Lewis family.

“I want to go to The Julliard School and get a degree in dancing,” a somewhat breathless Rio explains when asked what she wants to be when she grows up. “I want to act and sing and then I’m going to do some animal rights activism while I like write songs and stuff. I might also want to perform in a Broadway show while I’m in New York, and then I’m going to get a record deal and have a number one single on the charts.”

But for now, Rio’s dreams are solely focused on Christmas morning.

“I want another dog,” she says before going on with reciting of a lengthy Christmas list that also includes ‘an acrylic nail set’ and maybe some ‘fun makeup.’ “We have one dog, but she is very naughty. I’m pretty sure she’s barked in every single interview I have ever done.”

Rio Lewis

feel great in

1992.

1992. The retirement plan began over two cups of black coffee. Not by coincidence, it was toasted with a 30-year-old single malt in 2022.

The retirement plan began over two cups of black coffee. Not by coincidence, it was toasted with a 30-year-old single malt in 2022.

A toast-worthy plan does more than ensure you can maintain your lifestyle, now and well into the future. It also helps you be prepared for what’s next. Whether that’s managing your legacy through a well-crafted estate plan or making the most of charitable giving, the Lazzara Investment Advisory of Raymond James can help lay the groundwork with your next chapter in mind. LIFE WELL PLANNED.

ALAN A. LAZZARA, CFA® Managing Director Senior Vice President, Investments D 630.203.1177 // C 312.718.7188 alan.lazzara@raymondjames.com Raymond James and its advisors do not offer any tax advice. ©

LEAH A. KO, AWMA®, CFP®

Senior Registered Client Service Associate D 630.203.1176 // T 844.706.4608 leah.ko@raymondjames.com

One Parkview Plaza, Suite 250 // Oakbrook Terrace, IL 60181 F 844.345.3520 // alanlazzara.com

Caption

with

Celebrate the New Year Style

The Curated Concierge Rings in the New Year

WORDS BY JANIS MVK / PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBIN SUBAR HAIR AND MAKEUP BY LEANNA ERNEST

The countdown to the new year is on and the stakes to throw an extraordinary party is high. Start 2023 off right by setting the stage for all celebrations to come, by hiring an event planner for your next event.

Enter The Curated Concierge. Founded in 2020 by Amanda Corley, The Curated Concierge is a full-service event planning agency, servicing clients throughout the United States, specifically the Chicago suburbs, specializing in Hinsdale, Naperville, and St. Charles. With more than 15 years of experience, Corley has planned everything from private dinner parties to corporate conferences. “Socially, I plan all types of events from two-person date nights to large gatherings and everything in between,” Corley says. “For businesses, I plan a wide range of events including executive board meetings, ribboncutting ceremonies, product launches, client-employee appreciation events, sales meetings, and educational conferences.” Corley offers day-of coordination for weddings, too, but not full-service wedding planning.

“I absolutely love planning social events because of the sentiment and emotion involved,” Corley says. “When hiring me, my clients are inviting me into their most personal space and I essentially become family throughout the process,” As for planning business events, it’s rewarding for Corley in that she takes the client’s goal and helps them achieve it through intentional and tactical planning, and many times in the form of something they had never imagined. “They welcome me in as part of their team through the process and rely on my expertise to navigate them through to the end,” Corley says. “Again, the trust involved is not lost on me and is one of the most fulfilling aspects of my business.”

With New Year’s Eve soirees upon us, Corley forecasts social celebrations rather than a private night in. If hosts are staying in instead of going out, the trend is to still keep it more social by hosting a small get-together with close family and friends. “For food and beverage, I expect butter boards will still be having a moment along with Insta-worthy signature drinks,” Corley says. “It’s always more fun to celebrate with a pretty drink in your hand, edible glitter, and sexy garnishes are always a win on New Year’s Eve.” Aesthetically, she also says you’ll continue to see the use of varying textures with lots of sparkles. “I couldn’t be happier about any of this,” she says. “I absolutely love that these trends are following us into the new year.”

As for last-minute advice, Corley says to start by making a list and then prioritizing each item by importance. “The aspects that are most important to you as the host deserve the most time, budget, and attention.” This approach applies whether hosts just need some last-minute cleaning before guests arrive or whether they decide to host at the eleventh hour and have an entire party to plan. “And while it is a very busy time of year for all event professionals, it never hurts to check last-minute availability.”

If you’re considering throwing a party, Corley advises to never pass up an opportunity to celebrate. “It doesn’t always have to be big, grand, themed, or over-the-top, but life is short, so throw the party,” she says. Enjoy being the guest to your own party by hiring an event planner. “We are here to advise from concept to design through the sourcing, hiring and management of vendors, and finally to execution,” she says. “Hiring a planner alleviates so much stress and allows the host to actually enjoy themselves.”

The Curated Concierge, www.thecuratedconcierge.co.

Amanda Corley is ready to ring in 2023.

With over 65 properties

Italian Lessons

WORDS BY PETER WREN / PHOTOGRAPHT BY ROBIN SUBAR

If you’re interested in waxing nostalgic about the golden age of Italian-American dining—the good old braciole and bocce ball days, when all the sauces were red and every table came topped with a carb-bomb of crusty pane, Rich Ciota can go yarn for yarn with pretty much anyone in town.

The man has restaurants and raviolis in his veins. Both sides of his family. His maternal grandfather started a meat company. His paternal grandfather ran grocery stores. His uncle owned a banquet hall where Ciota got his start, working as a busboy, before he earned his culinary school degree from Kendall College and managed a slew of Italian spots.

Visit Ciota’s new place, Il Mio in Clarendon Hills, and you’ll see some photos from those good old days.

They’re not particularly easy to find, though. You’re going to have to snake your way to the back end of what’s an undeniable snazzy-looking dining room to get there.

Very California chic in here. Just head past the woodsheathed, brass-plated bar, complete with all globe lights, built-in flat-screens, and retro-cool Three’s Company ferns. You’ll pass floating shelves lined with earth-toned pottery and a gorgeous hand-painted mural of a giant olive branch.

Il Mio proves that change, even for Italian trattorias, can be a very good and tasty thing.

Pesto Burrata Flatbread

California chic dining room

Keep on going, toward the back. When you pass beneath a bright orange Vespa, the one suspended from the ceiling, you’ll see the photos.

Snapshots of old butcher shops. An old Nonna leaning against the hood of a car. There’s an image of old men spraying down what looks like a giant bull with a garden hose. And handwritten recipes—all scrawled in Italian—for a few dishes that can make Ciota and his partner, Sam Palumbo, feel like they’re nine years old again.

It’s enough to make you hum an old mid-century modern Italian love ballad from Perry Como or Dino. But Ciota’s

decision to lead with the modern glitz in the front and house the endearing memories way in the back is deliberate.

“Look,” Ciota tells me, “People just don’t eat the way they used to anymore. People still expect old-school service, but when it comes to food, you have to adapt to the times.”

And there you have it: Ciota’s secret formula. Treat everyone—“yes, sir” and “yes, ma’am”—like they’re Sophia Loren and Marcello Mastroianni. Only his kitchen is dishing up the kind of nouveau-style Italian food that diners crave these days.

Oh sure, there are plenty of old standards—bruschetta and fried calamari, and chicken parm and pork Milanese—but there’s an equal number of offerings that marry with the modern décor.

If I were to tell you, for instance, that Il Mio’s meatballs are gluten-free, what would you say? Pure apostasy? Or Thank the Lord?

Suffice to say they’d be welcome in our house any day of the week. They’re not those little marble-shaped polpette that are suddenly in vogue. They’re actual meatballs. Softball-sized and dense. They taste like a rich Italian meatloaf molded into spherical form. Plus, they come wreathed in a slightly sweet tomato sauce, which goes down particularly easy—more like a silky pomodoro than a thick Sunday gravy.

Pizzas, you say? Ciota doesn’t really serve pizzas. He says there are plenty of pizza parlors around—thick, thin, Chicago-style

Italian Lemon Cake

Branzino

Cocktails

Il Mio’s cocktail list artfully embodies the bright, airy vibe of the restaurant by looking cute and leaning into soothing Mediterranean flavors.

and Neapolitan—so he’s serving “flatbreads.”

Truth be told, they’re actually Romanstyle pinsas.

The name pinsa derives from the Italian verb “pinsare,” which means to push. The dough itself is pushed and pushed and pushed until the end product looks like focaccia cross-pollinated with a tavernstyle cracker crust pizza. They’re crunchy as breadsticks at the ridge line with middle section firm enough to hold all sorts of goodies. You can order a sausage pinsa or a mushroom pinsa, but your best bet is probably the homemade pesto flatbread blanked with burrata.

By leaning into light bodied yet richly flavored dishes, Ciota hopes everyone will view Il Mio as more than just a special-occasion spot. He wants it to be a place equally suited for a night out with family as a romantic date night.

miss, it’s the branzino, which is by some miracle, made without flour. It’s sautéed in a breezy lemon sauce with tomatoes and artichokes, conjuring up that wonderfully subtle citrus flavor that one associates with Meyer lemons.

Ditto for the Italian lemon cake, which is so good that some of Ciota’s customers still can’t believe he orders it from the outside. Tastes like a first-class glass of limoncello wrapped in a crust and dusted with powdered sugar. Old World meets New World. Rustic yet sophisticated. Rich and light. Just the way Rich Ciota like it.

Il Mio is located at 30 S. Prospect Ave. in Clarendon Hills. Call 630.526.4646 or visit eatilmio.com.

30 Spritz: Pure peach blossoms here. We loved how the undercurrent of citrus (aperol, orange blossom vodka and lemon) married so well with the toasty bread notes of the Prosecco and all that peachiness. We’d call it Better than a Bellini.

His plan seems to be working. We noticed just as many sit-down diners order the filet mignon sliders—charred on the grill, then topped with a tantalizing one-two blast of balsamic and aioli—as at the bar. You’ll certainly recognize Il Mio’s pastas— orecchietti with sausage, gnocchi alla vodka, ricotta-spinach ravioli—but you might be surprised at how light they are on your palate.

Our pappardelle with short rib ragu was pure late-2000s Cal-Italian. Sort of like a pot roast with pasta ribboned in between. The accent marks are on the sweetness of the carrots rather than the richness of the short ribs.

If there’s a dish you can’t afford to

Daisy: Sometimes you take a sip of a tequila cocktail and wonder if the bartender bothered to mix anything with it. Not here: a heavy pour of Cointreau and fresh lime juice wrestle the smokiness of the Casamigos Blanco into submission.

Pappardelle with Short Rib Ragu

All In

The annual Wellness House ball, ALL IN, attracted nearly 400 guests who enjoyed an inspiring evening featuring long community-style tables, a meaningful live program of storytelling by Wellness House participants and a lively auction and paddle raise. CoChairs Lauren and Matt Houder and Dottie and Todd Martin, and Wine Chairs Tina and Jeffrey Weller presented a magical dinner followed by an expansive dessert and candy bar

Jeff & Laura Preusser, Melissa & Matt Goebel Dr. Jeffrey & Tina Weller

Sachin & Puja Gupta

Tora & Curtis Reed

Sarah & Dr. Alix Charles

Liz Oliverio, Mindy Cox, Shelly Perkowski

Kirsten & Paul Douglass

and dancing until midnight with music by Time Chicago. “Having us All In a room together really made us feel like a Wellness House family; that’s what we are and why we are together. My family always says when we gather - thank you for bringing us together and we certainly miss those who are not here,” said cochair Lauren Houder. wellnesshouse.org

Photography by Ian McLeod

Dragan & Marina Gastevski, Diana & Doug Wagenbach

Ryan & Angie Prendergast, Danny & Soraya Freeman

Sonja Grujic, Ghadeer Yacoub, Luciana Butera

Lisa Kolavennu, Tina Weller, Lauren Houder, Dottie Martin

Lauren Houder, Dottie Martin

JJ & Maritrese Chaudoir

Mary Cate Kuhl, Molly McGinnis

The Polo Ball

Members of the Chicagoland area polo community put away their boots and britches for a few hours to dress up and celebrate the men and women who helped put and keep Oak Brook Polo on the map. The Polo Ball was a wonderful finale to the 100th anniversary of the Oak Brook Polo Club.

oakbrookpoloclub.com

Photography by Ian McLeod

Donald Romano, Annette Bochener, Nicholas Srivastava

The Onetto Family

Larry & Ausra Misiukevicius

Karl & Gayle Maurer

Stephanie Kraml Suttle, Allison Suttle

Herndon Radcliffe & Rachael Favret

Cindy & Toni Sekera

Ian Schnoebelen & Stef Lueders

Hall of Fame

The Hinsdale Central Foundation inducted four outstanding alumni into the Hall of Fame during Homecoming week. Douglas Newbury, Kerstin Regnery, Jeff Tolbert, and Dave Stone joined other graduates and friends of the school who have distinguished themselves through their accomplishments and who exemplify the values and traditions of Hinsdale Central.

hinsdalecentralfoundation.org

Photography by Ian McLeod

Cynthia & Jeff Tolbert

Caption TK

Joe Varela, Peggy Hoover, Linda Anderson, Steve Burrows

Douglas Newbury, Kerstin Regnery, Carol Bobo, Jeff Tolbert, Dave Stone

David Inglis, John Elting

Dave Stone, Amanda & Matt Stone

Peyton Regnery, Gordon Austin, Logan Regnery, Peggy Austin, Riley Regnery Kerstin Regnery, Megan Pack, Linda Anderson, Lisa Meakins

Dr. Jeffrey Weller

Dr. Ayesha Sultan

Welcome to Wonderland

Hinsdale Junior Woman’s Club members donned their prettiest floral frocks and eagerly gathered to learn the theme of the 2023 benefit. The club will go down the rabbit hole to Wonderland on April 22, 2023. This event unlike any other will feature exciting entertainment, tempting cocktails, and delicious bites, all to raise funds for community grants. Don’t be late for this very important date. hjwc.us

Jill Giglio, Theresa Whitehead, Alison Kozlow

Amanda Mancini, Chelsea Urban, Ashley Keeley

Jiesi Patrevito, Natalie Heitmann

Caitlyn Hazlett, Jaclyn McNamara

Jori Horn, Julie Langdon

Nadia Shansi, Lyuba Roseri, Emily Burns

Lauren Glandt, Sena Slavik, Lynn Loman, Marina Gastevski, Katie Jones

Jennie Patricoski, Molly Sikora, Alyssa Doorhy, Nadia Shansi

Photography by Ian McLeod

Fall Fashion at Burdi

A chic, high-energy crowd piled into BURDI Clothing for a runway show of the best fall and winter looks in support of the Hinsdale Humane Society. With women’s looks from Sweet William, incredible food from Chef Paul Vivrant, rare cars from Continental Ferrari, and adoptable animal ambassadors, it was an evening to remember. hinsdalehumanesociety.org

Sarunas Brazdeikis, Maurice Guzman

Iva Zinker, Christine Zinker, Sylvia Kuzel

Jim McNichols, Kris & John Berger

Kristina Augustyniak, Karina Lazov, Emilia Augustyniak

Peter & Dana Burdi

Milania Raleva, Julia Duda

Rino Burdi, Steven Holtzman

Denise Marron, Amy Prame

Photography by Ian McLeod

Hinsdale Wine Walk

The air was chilly, but the festive groups who snapped up tickets to the third annual Wine Walk bundled up and made their way around town to mix, mingle, and sample wines at Hinsdale’s favorite shops and businesses. The Hinsdale Chamber of Commerce plans the Wine Walk and the entire community looks forward to this October evening. hinsdalechamber.com

Gretchen Barnard, Rino Burdi

Michelle Darin, Puja Patel

Natasha Valls, Karin Rohn

Jackie Flaherty, Courtney Robinson

Erin Ring, Amy Prame

Gretchen Barnard, Boyce Moffitt, Dory Kenna, Cathy Propati

Renee Sobieraj, Marina Fricilone

Photography by Ian McLeod

Hummingbird Pediatrics Halloween

A morning of sensory-friendly Halloween fun brought joy to many as children and families enjoyed trick-ortreating, trucks, open gym time, and more at the incredible Hummingbird Therapy and Enrichment Center.

hummingbirdpediatrictherapies.com

Photography by Ian McLeod

Laura Cottrell, Lindsay Bishop, Kate Letourneau

Nicole Fox, Katie Hensley, Kaitlyn Zielinski, Iliana Caso

Christina Morrissey, Melissa Kane, Olivia Morrissey, Marissa Hohman

Anna Brekke, Katie Coulter

Hummingbird Staff

Big Smiles for Kids

WORDS BY MITCH HURST PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATRINA WITTKAMP

The team at Brush Pediatric Dentistry in Hin sdale is led by a nationally recognized doctor and is one of the best pediatric specialists in the area. They are defined by the “Brush experi ence,” which focuses on educational, compas sionate care provided in a fun, light-hearted environment uniquely designed to make a trip to the dentist comfortable for kids and parents.

Dr. Mira Albert is owner of Brush Pediatric Dentistry, a practice she founded in October 2011. An accomplished doc tor, Albert is a national spokeswoman for American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry, a trustee and committee chair of the American Academic of Pediatric Dentistry Foundation, and an Examiner of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry.

“We stay on the cutting edge of delivering optimal oral healthcare for all children,” Albert says. “I carefully selected an incredible team of expert doctors and staff to ensure we deliver the most compassionate care possible to our Brush families.”

Brush focuses on building relationships with children that eliminate the fear that can sometimes accompany a trip to the dentist. Making a child smile, helping a scared child get through a tough procedure, and reassuring parents that diagno ses such as cavities can be part of everyday life are core to the practice’s mission.

Albert, who has two children, says she had an amazing child hood dental experience and that drives both how she runs her practice as well as how she wants to influence others in the profession. It guides how she leads her team at Brush and how she relates to parents. It also compels her to be an example to young women (and men) who want to enter the profession, in fluencing them to not shy away from becoming high achievers, have a career, and still balance a family and the most important friendships.

“One of my favorite Kellogg professors said it best when he said, ‘You are all smart and talented, but you are also fortu

nate’,” she says. “It’s important to recognize others who are smart and talented but maybe not be as fortunate, and always help.”

This recent advice provided while she was studying for an MBA at Northwestern University has been a guidepost for how Dr. Albert has approached her career. She finds great joy in other’s success and accomplishments, and when a young person proactively reaches out to her with a genuine interest in the profession, she takes them under her wing.

“I am proud to say that two of my mentees who each worked with me as chairside assistants prior to applying for dental school, Dr. Stephanie Bollow and Dr. Maggie Rizzo, have since completed the 10 years of rigorous training required to become a pediatric dentist and are now working alongside me to help carry out the mission of Brush Pediatric Dentistry,” Albert says. “Two more, Milan Stokes and Greta Kumskies, are well on their way and in dental school now.”

Brush’s five doctors work collaboratively with each other and a trusted team of other specialists in dentistry and pediatric healthcare to make sure patient’s needs are comprehensively met. The Brush emphasis is on prevention and education in a compassionate and fun way, beginning at age one.

Albert believes that not only is it Brush’s mission to provide the highest quality of care for its patients, it’s also important to give back to the community. The practice provides sponsorships and financial support for numerous local events and organiza tions, even offering a form on its Website for organizations to apply for funds.

“Brush has always been a leader in community support,” Al bert says. “We are proud to donate to and sponsor local sports teams, organizations, events, and schools that align with our mission to help children.”

Brush Pediatric Dentistry is located at 911 North Elm Street, Suite 228 in Hinsdale, 630.504.2223, brushforkids.com.

Dr. Mira Albert and her team at Brush Pediatric Dentistry are experts in providing the best quality oral health care for children.

Dr. Rizzo, Dr. Karam Chandani, Dr. Albert, Dr. Gripentrog, Dr. Bollow