Hinsdale Living, November 2022

-CHARLES DICKENS

JONNY CABS celebrates wine, music, and food in Burr Ridge

BALL Making the Holiday Ball Merry and Bright to raise spirits all year round at The Community House

Jay

Krehbiel

“Reflect upon your present blessings—of which every man has many—not on your past misfortunes, of which all men have some.”

Opposing viewpoints.

The most difficult decisions require the most trusted attorneys.

WHERE YOU ARE

Experience Transcendent

Enter a world of comfort and ease, where each day begins with boundless pleasure. Timeless elegance meets modern convenience in this 101-story s scraper designed by award-winning architect Jeanne Gang. Revel in exquisite interiors, exceptional finishes and panoramic views of Chicago and Lake Michigan. The Residences at The St. Regis Chicago. Live high above it all, right in the middle of it all. Learn more at srresidenceschicago.com or by calling +1 312 779 0392.

DR. LYNNA GRIPENTROG

DR. MAGGIE RIZZO

DR. ANDREINA KARMANCHANDI DR. STEPHANIE BOLLOW

N MOHAWK

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!

30 W OAK ST 23A

2 Beds + Office | 2.1 Baths • $5,500,000

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!

lot home with in a premier Lincoln Park locale! Huge top floor 850sq ft addition to the home makes this totally unique. Incredible outdoor space with oversized side yard, hardscaped patio, and garage roof deck all with southern exposure! Main level offers multiple spaces to host and entertain with a freshly updated eat-in kitchen. Amazing natural light from the south-facing windows overlooking the spectacular side yard. 3 bedrooms on second floor, including oversized primary suite with attached office! Rec room, guest bed, and sunny top floor addition make the ultimate penthouse level!

Extra-wide, fully remodeled home in a fab Bucktown location! Main level has wide open spaces with multiple areas for hosting. Huge east/west facing windows with treetop views. The eat-in kitchen is ultra-chic with 13’ ceilings, an oversized marble island and top-end appliances. Landscaped side yard with an outdoor kitchen! Second level with 3 gracious bedrooms and laundry room. Penthouse level access to southwest roof deck! Huge rec room, 2 guest beds, and wine cellar in lower level, plus 3 car attached garage!

the aficionado

There's nothing Jeff loves more than retreating to his multi-media loft to enjoy the classic sounds of his record albums.

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

Diamonds

a joyous

and a Happy Holiday Season!

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.

THE WINE CELLAR OUTLET OAK BROOK

our store and explore over 500 bottles of premium-quality wine from all over the world.

our curated assortment of craft spirits.

also

Insane outlet prices (up to 45% off our Cellar Collection)

Free shipping on a case or more

WINE STORE

OUR CUSTOMERS SAY IT ALL

“What a great find! Bargains bargains bargains! You can find some amazing wines & deals. I’ll be back” – Laura B.

“If you like wine, visit this boutique and shop! Located in the Oak Brook Promenade off of Butterfield Rd. The store itself is very clean, good lighting and well-organized. They have tons of unique wines from around the world at great prices!” – Daniella C.

IN 3 HOURS

LESS

ENJOY

BLACK FRIDAY IS COMING SOON

biggest sale

JAY

Founder & Publisher J.W. CONATSER

Associate Publisher

GRETCHEN BARNARD

Managing Editor MICHELLE CROWE

THERESA DEMARIA

Senior Fashion Editor

Style Editor LAUREN DEMARIA

Beauty Editor ALLISON DUNCAN

Contributing Editors ELAINE DOREMUS

NORA KEENAN TONN

DUSTIN O’REGAN

KEMMIE RYAN

SHERRY THOMAS

MEGAN WEISBERG

Contributing Writers THOMAS CONNORS

MITCH HURST

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

HOW TO REACH Hinsdale Living Magazine

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

General inquiries: 847-926-0911

Editorial inquiries: 630-271-7991

Editorial email: MICHELLECROWE@JWCMEDIA.COM

On the web: HINSDALELIVINGMAG.COM

Mailing Address: 445 SHERIDAN ROAD, PENTHOUSE

HIGHWOOD, ILLINOIS 60040

over fifty-five acres of idyllic grounds highlighted by large stands of mature trees, wetlands, ponds and Bronswood Creek, Templeton Reserve is comprised of 20 Estate Lots ranging in size from three to four plus acres.

PUBLISHER’S NOTE

November

reminds us to express our gratitude.

As art collectors and enthusiasts, we are thankful for 40 years of Hindman Auctions. In celebration of this milestone, we have a lively, informative Q&A with Jay Krehbiel, Co-Chairman, and CEO of the house, who has much to say about the exciting expansion into cities across the country and digitally.

We preview The Holiday Ball, everyone’s favorite first Saturday in December tradition, and learn from the cochairs about this year’s theme, “Merry & Bright”.

Dinner Date finds us at Jonny Cabs, a new Burr Ridge venue with good food, live music, and a focus on California wines.

Our Country vs. Town section introduces us to Hinsdale's Jennifer Weil, a wife and mother of three who wows us with her

recommendations of where to go around Hinsdale and in downtown Chicago.

We are always grateful for the stellar advice of attorney Brendan Hammer in Esquire and the wise words for the college bound from Matthew Pietrafetta and Academic Approach.

We are thankful for so many organizations that gather supporters to raise money for worthy causes. The good you do is so beneficial, and we are glad to offer glimpses in our Living + Giving coverage.

Wishing you and yours a wonderful Thanksgiving.

Enjoy the pictures, and good reading.

J.W. Conatser

BY ROBIN SUBAR

Talk of the Town

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

CAFÉ LA FORTUNA turns 10 this month. Owner Angela Lavelli sees the café as an extension of her own kitchen and legions of fans stop by several times a week—or several times a day—for delicious drinks made with small batch coffee beans that are roasted daily. Café La Fortuna has been wonderfully supportive of area schools and philanthropic organizations. It’s also the perfect place to stop and enjoy a moment of peace while sipping a Café con Leche or Mayan Coffee, both local favorites. Cheers to another ten years of sips and smiles. Café La Fortuna, 46 Village Place, Hinsdale, 630.537.1586, cafelafortuna.com.

NOVEMBER 5

RED, WHITE & BLUES

WHERE: Pinstripes Oakbrook Center

WHEN: 7:00 p.m.

TICKETS: $150

This popular patriotic event in support in support of Operation Support Our TroopsAmerica (OSOT-A) returns. “Red, White, and Blues” is the brainchild of local leaders Dave and Chris Pequet, who launched the evening of music and fun in 2014 in honor of the men and women who serve our country. The evening will feature music by Chicago Blues All Stars, surprises, and storytelling, plus returning emcee Gary Fencik, a devoted friend of the organization and a beloved member of the Superbowl-winning 1985 Bears team. redwhiteandblues.org

NOVEMBER 11

UNCORKED

WHERE: The Drake Oak Brook

WHEN: 6:00 p.m.

TICKETS: $150

For its sixth consecutive year, Scoreboard Charities is hosting its annual fundrais-

AGENDA

ing event, Uncorked, Pull a Cork for Cancer. This year’s much-anticipated event, themed, It ALL Adds Up, is returning stronger than ever with its first in-person event after going virtual for the past two years. Supporting cancer research for Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center of Northwestern University and aiding free programs for Camp One Step by Children’s Oncology Services, Scoreboard Charities has raised and donated an impressive $1 million to these centers since Scoreboard’s inception. This year, Uncorked is expected to bring in close to 300 guests in-person at The Drake Oak Brook. However, supporters who wish to continue to participate virtually will still have the option to do so— including enjoying the coveted swag bag. scoreboardcharities.com

NOVEMBER 15 BOOKS & BRUNCH

WHERE: The Abbington Glen Ellyn

WHEN: 10:00 a.m.

TICKETS: $100

With author conversations, boutique shopping, book stalls, raffles, live and

silent auctions, and authors Betsy Bird, Bill Taylor, and Jill Wine-Banks in conversation with moderator Andrea Thome about their writing experiences, this lovely event is one not to miss. Assistance League Chicagoland West volunteers transform the lives of children and adults through community programs. They seek to meet essential needs and help families flourish. Books & Brunch is the organization’s signature fundraiser and helps meet these goals. alcw.org

NOVEMBER 29

MISTLETOE MEDLEY

WHERE: Drury Lane

WHEN: 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. TICKETS: $90

The Oak Brook Chapter of the Infant Welfare Society of Chicago Auxiliary hosts their annual shopping event and luncheon, a beloved tradition. This year’s theme is “Hearts of Gold”, chosen to celebrate the Oak Brook Chapter’s 50th year of friendship and fundraising and acknowledge the outstanding contributions of members, donors, sponsors, and friends. The event supports IWS Family Health, which provides high-quality

health care for Chicagoans. The luncheon and fashion show begin at noon, with shopping before and after. oakbrookchapterinfantwelfare.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 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

PHOTOGRAPHY BY IAN MCLEOD

Liz Iozzo, Georgia Chulos, Kim Jerich, Michelle Edmonds, Nirali Amin at Mistletoe Medley.

Golden Goose Super-Star Sabots

STAR IT

The new Golden Goose store at Oakbrook Center is a drop of Venice in our favorite luxury shopping center. Housing ready-to-wear, accessories, and footwear, the boutique offers exclusive styles and personalization for collectors who want each pair of Superstar sneakers to be theirs alone. Since its founding in 2000, GG designers Alessandro Gallo and Francesca Rinaldo have brilliantly merged American city chic with Italian sartorial traditions, creating an irresistible brand that brings the fun into fashion. 296 Oakbrook Center, goldengoose.com, 331.282.2340

WRITE IT

Your gorgeous designer bag deserves better than a Bic. Upgrade your pen with a Faber-Castell pen.

AMBITION

made of precious resin, with leaf design produced by a 3D printer and a cap and grip made of chrome-plated polished metal. This winning combination is both tactile and attractive, with the bonus of the texture making it easier to find in your bag. Stockpile these for holiday gifting.

Jewelers Hinsdale.

READ IT

Jewelry fans, philanthropists, and those looking for inspiration will all enjoy Kendra Scott’s new book. With a voice that’s vulnerable, wise, funny. and poignant, this dynamo takes us on a journey of personal stories and tough life lessons in her new memoir BORN TO SHINE: DO GOOD, FIND YOUR JOY, AND BUILD A LIFE YOU LOVE. From her humble beginnings as a bullied middle schooler in small-town Wisconsin, to launching her billion-dollar business in her spare bedroom with $500, to the devastating accident that turned her world on its axis, Scott shares how she built a life and career grounded in joy, kindness, purpose and giving back. Through the ups and downs, her struggles and triumphs, Scott reminds us that not all that glitters is gold, that life is as messy as it is magical and that even in our darkest of days, there is always a light to shine. Available at Kendra Scott Oakbrook Center and Barbara’s Bookstore Burr Ridge Village Center.

Born to Shine by Kendra Scott

WHAT IS SENIOR CRISIS MANAGEMENT?

You don’t understand the term “senior crisis management” until you and your loved ones are in the middle of it. This is the time for an understanding of Kastle Keeper services. Senior crisis situations come in all shapes and sizes, and life is more often filled with unexpected circumstances. The Kastle Keeper team is trained and certified to help you navigate the senior journey.

Managing the next steps might include “Aging in Place.”

This term is used when a senior decides to stay in their home and requires assistance with accessibility living design and project management. Our certified Aging In Place experts help your loved ones age in place by creating a personalized home designed for safety, accessibility and happiness. Management often includes sourcing equipment, installing safety features, removing mobility hazards, along with other requirements depending on the specific needs of the seniors. Alongside Aging-In-Place, how are you maintaining your home? It is imperative for the senior family to manage the daily operations of the home for optimal efficiency and safety. Kastle Keeper will immediately handle all these concerns.

As the needs of the senior change, the family may require “senior transitioning services.” At Kastle Keeper, our certified specialists start by listening and learning about the senior and their family. Kastle Keeper personalizes every transition plan, including packing, relocating, downsizing, and inevitability rightsizing for the senior. In addition, our team provides full estate planning along with all donations, full scale clean-out, repairs, staging, and sale of the home. Our certified specialists ensure whiteglove services unique to each senior. If your family is in the middle of a senior crisis, the Kastle Keeper team is available with experienced empathetic professionalism.

COUNTRY VS. TOWN

Mantra: “Just Be Kind”. And also, “Love Wins”. On your reading stack: I’m des perately trying to keep up with my book club but haven’t been very successful lately. I read a lot with my kids and have loved re-reading some of my childhood favorites: Judy Blume, Beverly Cleary, E.B. White, and a lot of Harry Potter. Podcast: You’re Wrong About. Favorite workout: I like to do lots of different things, but Club Pilates is the only thing that gets me out of bed at 5:30am! It’s amazing. Best grooming tip: Mascara, lip gloss, and a smile can make a big difference on those days when you are rushing out of the house. Guilty pleasure: Dark Chocolate covered caramels with sea salt and anything covered in buttercream frosting. Early memory: The day my sister was born, I had just turned four and my grandmother took me to buy new shoes to wear to the hospital. I insisted on black patent leather Mary Janes, with a matching purse, even though it was July. Music you love: When I’m the DJ, I love nostalgic 80s and 90s, but my husband and kids love Country, and I’ve surprised myself with how much I like it too. We usually have The Highway on Sirius XM on in the car. Advice you would give to your younger self: Stay true to yourself and don’t worry so much about what other people think.

WHEN IN THE COUNTRY

Your style is? If I’m in anything other than workout clothes or jeans & a t-shirt, my kids ask why I’m “so dressed up?”

I rely on Vintage Charm and Meredith Jaye for great everyday pieces. Favorite walk? Dropping the kids at school and then walking the dog to Café La Fortuna. Favorite sounds or soundtrack? The Sirius XM app for music or news, depending on the day. Can’t leave the house without?

Phone, sunglasses, lip gloss, water bottle, and my “to do” list of errands Place to celebrate? The Kohler Water Spa in Burr Ridge Best quick bite or hidden gem? Standard Market and Kirschbaum’s Bakery, brunch at Yia-Yia’s. Favorite festival or special event? Seeing Santa, decorating cookies, and riding in the horse-drawn wagon at Christmas is one of our family’s favorite Hinsdale traditions. Best thing about the country? Friends and neighbors who have become family and supported us during some hard times Worst thing about the country? Getting back into the city has been harder than I imagined when we moved to the ‘burbs. The perfect day is? A Pilates class, cup of coffee, time with my kids, and dinner, wine, and dessert with my husband and friends on our patio.

WHEN IN TOWN

Your style is? During the day my style is the same as in Hinsdale, but I like a cute dress and heels for an evening out. Favorite walk? Visit ing our old neighborhoods to show our kids where we used to live and our favorite restaurants and shops. I also love walking along the lake and seeing the skyline. Favorite sounds or soundtrack? I love the sounds of the city: the honking, the talking, hear ing people eating outside, the El and busses, etc. It still feels like home even after being a suburban resident for over 10 years. Can’t leave the house with out? My phone for the Uber app, lip gloss, and a great cross-body bag that can go from day to night. Place to celebrate? Sai Café, where my husband took me on one of our first dates, or RPM Seafood, where we celebrated our birthdays with our first post-Covid lockdown restaurant meal. Best quick bite or hidden gem? La Pasadita for street tacos, Chicago Pizza and Oven Grinder, or Dee’s Mandarin & Sushi, all old neighborhood favorites before we had kids! Favorite festival or special event? Broadway musicals with my daughters, Old Town Art Fair, and Zoo Lights at Lincoln Park Zoo. Shop? The boutiques on Armitage and Sheffield for unique pieces, and Nordstrom for everything else! Best thing about town? The food! And the excitement from being around so many different people, in a lessfamiliar environment than home. Worst thing about town? Traffic and parking. The perfect day is? Shopping, spa, and brunch with girlfriends, then dinner and a play or concert with my husband. And if I’m really lucky, a great night of uninterrupted sleep at The Peninsula.

Brown vegan leather puff sleeved top by GANNI, Silk wool wide leg pant by Piazza Simpione, all avail able at Neiman Marcus.

JENNIFER WEIL spent the early years of her life in Rockford, MI, a small town outside of Grand Rapids, where she could walk to school, ride a bike to friends’ houses, and visit her grandparents anytime she wanted. She credits this with shaping her desire for her kids to have a similar experience, which makes Hinsdale the perfect spot for raising her own family. Jen earned a Business degree from the University of Michigan and moved to Chicago after graduation, where she worked in advertising and media sales for 13 years on both the agency side and for Real Simple magazine.

She and her husband Chris live in Hinsdale with their three children, ages 13, 9, and 7, and a Covidpuppy named Frankie. The family has lived in the same house since moving to town in 2011 but are in the process of building a new home a few blocks away. Jen puts the multi-tasking skills from her corporate life into play keeping everything running smoothly. Her day might find her putting on any or all these hats; carpool driver, chef, laundry master, new house project manager, organization guru, dog walker. She is a devoted soccer mom who loves watching her kids perform in musical theater and never misses a sporting or arts event. She has served on the Madison PTO Executive Board and chairs the Education ministry at Union Church of Hinsdale. Jen was involved with HJWC for several years and is on the board of the Mend a Heart Foundation, which raises money to support research and enrichment programs for children with congenital heart disease. It’s a busy, beautiful life made better by Jennifer’s ever-present smile and willingness to jump in and help anyone. She is a ray of sunshine. Here are her words of wisdom and a few favorites.

EDITED BY MICHELLE CROWE PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAMES GUSTIN STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA HAIR & MAKEUP BY CATHLEEN HEALY

Jennifer wears a charcoal gray wool dress by Georgio Armani, available at Neiman Marcus Oakbrook Center

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BY NORA KEENAN TONN PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBIN SUBAR

OUT OF AFRICA

The Razny Family, owners of Razny Jewelers since 1951, took the trip of a lifetime to visit their diamond supplier in Africa.

EDITED BY ANN MARIE SCHEIDLER / PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF RAZNY JEWELERS

Razny Jewelers, with four locations throughout the Chicagoland area, is the leading family-owned and operated source for loose diamonds, bespoke jewelry, and Swiss timepieces. In business since 1951, the third generation of this family business is entirely devoted to the future of luxury.

Stan, Ingrid, and Michael Razny were recently invited to the South African nation of Namibia by their direct diamond supplier to experience the country’s beauty. “Razny is one of the very few jewelers to have access to the direct supply of diamonds,” notes Ingrid, “securing our customers the best value by eliminating the middleman.”

Even more important than learning about where their diamonds are sourced, the Raznys gained a greater appreciation for the good that comes from the sale of natural diamonds. “There is no question that the people of Namibia and South Africa benefit from the diamond industry as it is a key component of the economy,” says Ingrid. “This industry has taken great effort to harvest these natural wonders from the land and sea in the most environmentally

Stan, Ingrid, and Michael Razny

Stan Razny at the cutting and polishing facility

friendly way. Seeing the process and meeting Africa’s people has given us the ability to tell the story of natural diamonds. We are honored to be the ambassadors for the natural diamond industry.”

The main source of natural-colored diamonds, as well as a majority of the fancy yellow diamonds, Namibia also produces gems of pink and blue. “Many of these stones are retrieved from the sea using a vacuum mining process that leaves little disruption to the ocean floor,” says Ingrid. “We were so lucky to experience this first-hand.”

The Raznys also visited the cutting and polishing facility of their diamond supplier while visiting the country, which gained its independence from South Africa in 1990. Opened in 2008, this facility has grown to include 60 employees, many of whom began as trainees and have since moved into management roles.

In addition to getting a firsthand understanding of the sourcing and processing of diamonds, the Raznys visited a kidney dialysis clinic equipped with machines donated by their direct diamond supplier in collaboration with Razny Jewelers and met children from the Eros Primary School, which has also received substantial support from their supplier.

Before coming home, the Raznys traveled to South Africa where they visited the Nelson Mandela Foundation. There they saw the cell where the Nobel Prize winner was imprisoned for more than 27 years before becoming the nation’s president in 1994. They also went to Soweto, the Johannesburg township whose residents played a key role in the anti-apartheid movement. Kliptown,

the oldest township in Soweto and historically important as the place where the 1955 Freedom Charter was

adopted, is home to 44,000 people but lacks the most basic needs such as schools, health clinics, electricity, and proper sanitation. The

Raznys are committed to supporting such empowering initiatives as the Kliptown Youth Program, an after-school center and mentoring program serving students from first grade through high school. “The Kliptown Youth Program was really amazing,” says Ingrid. “The children looked happy and healthy and we are even more determined to increase our support.” Clearly, what began as a business trip turned out to be much, much more.

To learn more about Razny Jewelers, visit razny.com. To learn more about the Kliptown Youth Program, visit kliptownyouthprogram.org.

Visiting the Kliptown Youth Program

GRATEFUL FOR THE OPENINGS THAT A CLOSING PROVIDES A Thanksgiving REFLECTION

WORDS BY BRENDAN HAMMER PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBIN SUBAR

This Thanksgiving will mark the 8th post-divorce holiday feast dedicated to gratitude, family, and tradition that I have celebrated with my ex-wife/coparent and our son. This year, we will be celebrating in Southern California. In previous years, we have enjoyed the holiday in Mexico, Canada, England, and elsewhere. Particularly relevant this year, we will spend the day with our son’s older cousin, a smart and caring young woman who herself married just last year. In my wedding to her aunt over a decade and a half ago, she served as our flower girl. In her wedding, our son served as her ring bearer. Now, she and her husband are expecting their own child, who is due in the same month our son was born.

Almost none of my clients spend holidays with their ex-spouse and their ex-spouse’s family. The formal distance and separation works for them because a chapter has definitively closed for them in almost every meaningful way. I am glad that at this point in their lives these clients can create and curate a holiday experience for themselves and their kids. I am also glad that I have been able, working collaboratively with my ex-wife, to also fashion a holiday routine (and a daily one as well) that works for us. Some people look at divorce and are thankful for the proverbial “fresh start.” After years spent in an often-contentious marriage that was rife with bitten tongues and bruised feelings, the brave new world of life after marriage presents a kind of new frontier for them to reinvent themselves.

For others who choose it, there can be a no less bold, rewarding, and daunting territory to navigate. To understand that world one must first appreciate what it is and is not. The world of divorce is often depicted as a kind of terra incognita that begins from the entry of the divorce judgment as an inevitable, total, and irreversible point of departure. In law we refer to divorce as the dissolving or dissolution of a marriage. Colloquially, we refer to divorced homes as “broken” homes. Divorce, then, is always and already laden with the concept of breaking, ending, departing, and distancing.

But does divorce necessarily entail all those things? In some ways, yes, or it wouldn’t be a divorce. In many other ways, the answer is not necessarily. For everything that divorce ends, that

ending opens a terrain to reimagined ways of living and interacting. Rather than a one-size-fits-all option, divorce allows spouses (particularly with younger children) to thoughtfully press the reset button. Spouses can choose a bespoke approach to post-divorce life. They can elect to maintain all or only certain traditions, they can agree to particularized living arrangements, they can maintain agreed-upon financial entanglements and joint ventures, and they can establish schedules that work for their children AND for them. While the canvas is not blank by any means, it is double sided and in divorce it can be turned over for a new creation to be made from what preceded it. In this way, the raw material of what worked can be salvaged and repurposed to new ends.

As I write this, my iPhone just updated to iOS 16. In many ways it is similar to the multiple earlier versions of the Apple operating system that powered my phone. My same physical phone can now do things it could not before, and it does so in a manner that looks different on the surface but is still wholly familiar. That’s an apt metaphor for marriage and divorce. In my own life, for the past eight years, my coparent and I have worked together on attempting to program a new operating system for ourselves and our son. In panoply ways, that system has components erected and refined during the time we were married. In other ways, we have added, deleted, and revised things along the way. Ultimately, though, we are still a family, together although apart. As we prepare to celebrate the holiday once again, I am thankful that out of the inevitable closing and disruption that divorce brought to our lives as a married couple, we nonetheless preserved the pieces of that relationship that worked and oriented our post-divorce commitments and efforts to finding a new way forward the biggest shared interest we have—our son, and his well-being.

Brendan Hammer can be reached at BJH@hammer.llc or 312. 372.6058. His website is www.hammer.llc.

GAVEL EXCITEMENT

Jay Krehbiel photographed at Hindman headquarters.

Andy Warhol, (American, 1928-1987)

$ (Quadrant), 1981, screenprint on Lenox Museum Board, signed and inscribed ‘to Bob love Andy Warhol

81 HC’ in pencil, verso 40 x 32 inches.,

Property from the Collection of Mr. Robert Denison

Price Realized: $118,750, offered in Hindman’s September 29th

Prints & Multiples auction

Jay Krehbiel , CoChairman and CEO of Hindman celebrates the institution’s 40th anniversary while leading the house towards more success in the coming years.

WORDS BY MICHELLE CROWE PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATRINA WITTKAMP STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA

Occasionally, in the life of a city or on the international stage, an influential figure emerges. Not with a fuss, but with a reassuring smile, striking intelligence, and the curiosity that defines every extraordinary person. Enter Jay Krehbiel, Co-Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Hind

man, a leading fine art auction house that is celebrating its 40th anniversary as we speak. Mr. Krehbiel joined the firm in 2017 and became CEO in 2019.

During his time as CEO, Mr. Krehbiel has led the continued expansion of Hindman including the opening of offices in Detroit, San Diego, and Washington, D.C., for a total of 13 locations throughout the country. He has also played an integral role in pro moting the digital growth of the company.

Like the founder, Leslie Hindman, Krehbiel was raised in Hins dale before setting off to earn his BA from Dartmouth College and an MBA from Northwestern University.

When not at one of the Hindman locations around the country, Mr. Krehbiel serves on the Board of Trustees of the Art Institute of Chicago, where he is the Treasurer and Chair of the Finance Com mittee. He also serves on the boards of the Irish Georgian Society, the American Friends of the National Gallery of Ireland, and St. Chrysostom’s Church, and previously served on the boards of The

HL: How do you describe your role as Co-Chairman and Chief Executive Officer?

It can shift a lot, especially as our team is continuing to rapidly grow! It’s thrilling to be able to work with 170 dedicated profes sionals everyday across the US, but of course my schedule is contin uously full and surprising in the best of ways. We have experts and leaders in their fields. With that comes strong, informed opinions, and as CEO I find myself trying to hear out everyone’s point of view and then plot the best path forward.

HL: Is there any one aspect of your role that you can single out as your favorite? Or is the variety in your day to day what you love?

Easily, it is the variety. The nature of the job is that you sit across every part of the business, whether it is client service, marketing, technology or understanding why and when it is appropriate to sell a particular object. That is what makes the job so gratifying.

HL: What the house puts on the block depends on what people wish to sell, on the one hand, and what people wish to buy, on the other. Is there one department that is seeing more activity than another these days?

Yes and no. In the end, we cannot sell something that we do not have. Now, if a market is particularly strong in a certain category, this will, as you suggest, pull inventory into the market, but that is always a conversation with our consignors.

Over the last several years we have seen a surge of interest in

Taft School and The Newberry Library.

Post-War & Contemporary Art works, particularly a sub-set of the Chicago Imagists who were called the ‘Hairy Who.’ This interestand the impressive prices achieved at auction - is tempting works onto the market that were very comfortably sitting on a collector’s wall.

HL: Will you speak about art and antiques as a component of wealth management?

While all sorts of arguments might be made for art as part of a portfolio, I believe collectors should focus on what brings them joy. You should buy what you want to live with, which often ties in with what you love.

HL: You have led the expansion of Hindman into multiple locations in the U.S.; can you share a little on how taste and buying habits may vary from place to place?

Hindman’s nationwide expansion was very much Leslie’s vision, and we have simply built upon that. We are excited to be operating out of 16 cities nationwide now. Collecting habits do vary from city to city and state to state, either because of the style of the

houses - think Chicago townhouse versus Mediterranean-revival in Palm Beach versus mid-century modern in Scottsdale - but also because of taste. And there are cities where we operate where ‘bling’ is much more sought after than in some Midwestern cities, for example.

HL: Is there a Hindman office you particularly enjoy visiting?

While I love all my offices equally, I do have a soft spot for Cincin nati. The city is home to some of our most well-established collect ing categories like Native American Art, whose director has been with the company for over 20 years. Additionally, we just opened a new office in the city this year, so it’s certainly worth checking out an auction preview or event in the space. This year I even visited for the annual Hindman team outing to a Cincinnati Reds game, but unfortunately the opposing Chicago team got trounced!

HL: You have led significant digital advancement for Hindman. Is that encouraging a more international client base? Where are you seeing the most action outside the U.S.?

We have invested massively in our technology platform, and it has

Alexander Calder, (American, 1898-1976), Stars Over Mountains, 1965, gouache and ink on paper, signed Calder and dated (lower right), 29 1⁄2 x 42 1⁄2 inches., Property from a Prominent St. Louis Estate Price Realized: $87,500, offered in Hindman’s September 28th Post-War & Contemporary Art auction

encouraged increased bidding both nationally and globally. The days of 200 people packing into the sale room are over; today you are lucky if there are five people in the room. Instead, everyone browses and buys online, which allows you to reach bidders everywhere.

HL: Some may still think of auctions as a kind of elite club. How are you continuing to demystify the auction experience?

It’s funny, I am often asked: can anyone bid at auction? My re sponse is always: do you have a credit card? If so, then yes. The big houses have incredible brands and have cultivated an air of exclu sivity around them. But, let’s just state the obvious, it is an exclusive group that is able to purchase a nine-figure painting.

However, another thing that Leslie beat into all of us – the importance of a client-centric business model, one that focuses on everyone from the novice to the seasoned collector. Our target price of $5,000 to $500,000, is much more approachable for a collector, and we sell items below $1,000, too. Hopefully, and most importantly, regardless of the price point you are buying at, our team makes you feel valued and welcome.

HL: Do you have a favorite memory of growing up in Hinsdale or a beloved tradition when you spend time in Hinsdale now?

Hinsdale was a wonderful town to grow up in. My parents lived in the same house where I was brought home from Hinsdale Hospi tal for 49 years. I cannot think of that house without thinking of

Christmas, and I cannot think about Christmas without thinking of my parents and that house.

HL: Could you share some thoughts and reflections as Hindman celebrates the important milestone of your 40th anniversary?

Reflecting upon the past 40 years, I cannot help but think of how amazing Leslie was to start this business from scratch, at a young age, with very little initial support. She made it happen through her incredible determination and force of will. We’ve been honored to extend the roadmap she so clearly set in motion when establishing this company, whether it is expanding our footprint or continu ing to seek out new ways of utilizing technology. She was really a visionary, and I am proud that she is my partner-in-crime.

HL: What have been some particularly memorable moments during your time at Hindman? Surprises?

Auction houses surprise all the time! One of the most exciting things to happen is what is called in auction parlance ‘a sleeper’. For whatever reason - and this happens at houses both large and small - you may not have noticed something that takes a work from being nice to be particularly special, but the bidders do see it. Suddenly, a small work that you estimated at $1,000 is selling for $400,000. That is always exhilarating to see.

HL: Looking to the future, are there any plans that you are particu larly excited about?

We are very excited to be opening in New York and Boston this year. The Northeast was an area that we had not previously served and to be able to connect with new clients - buyers and sellers - is an exciting prospect for the entire team.

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Below average looks, above

Sarah LeStrange, Jeanne Hendrie, and Kiersten Tomson photographed at The Community House.

and Merry Bright

WORDS BY MICHELLE CROWE / PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAMES GUSTIN STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA / HAIR BY ADRIENNE DONTES-KIRSCH OF STUDIO 11 SALON / MAKEUP BY CATHLEEN HEALY

The stately building at Eighth and Madison is practically a home away from home for many locals. With athletic and art experiences, cultural and educational programming, and a welcoming atmosphere for people of all ages,

The Community House is an absolute treasure.

There are two surprising things to know about The Community House. The first is that it’s a privately funded non-profit organization that receives no tax dollars. “Many people aren’t aware that we’re supported by generous families and individuals, not taxes,” says Dan Janowick, Executive Director of The Community House. The second is that this special place also provides high-quality, caring mental health services through The Counseling Center.

For uninsured, underinsured, and especially young people, who are under unprecedented stress and strain these days, The Counseling Center is a true beacon of hope. Which is exactly why the co-chairs agreed on year’s theme, “Merry & Bright.”

“We wanted something upbeat and exuding vibrance,” says Jeanne Hendrie, who is co-chairing with her husband Andrew. She adds, “We hope people will wear color and arrive ready for the most exciting evening of the year.”

“Guests will enjoy cocktails in Kettering Hall in a “Merry” environment, then move into the fieldhouse for “Bright” dinner and dancing,” explains Sarah LeStrange, co-chairing with her husband Ryan.

Rounding out the dream team of fundraising powerhouses are Kiersten and Andrew Tomsom. Kiersten shares, “The majority of clients of The Counseling Center are under 24-years-old. It’s

extraordinary that we have this wonderful resource right in our backyard.”

The Holiday Ball really kicks off the festive season. It has been the place to be on the first Saturday in December since 1961. Many of the event’s beloved traditions will be a part of this year’s gala, and some new touches offer a nod to a new generation of revelers.

“There will be a tented whiskey lounge with televisions tuned to the SEC and Big-10 championship games,” says Kiersten. Another addition is a 360-photo booth to capture memories.

“This is a celebration that needs to make a big impact. It’s important that we’re successful in raising a significant amount to fund the incredible work of The Community House, especially The Counseling Center,” Sarah says.

To this end, the co-chairs have put a great deal of energy into securing sponsors. “Everyone is so generous and happy to be a part of this important event,” says Jeanne.

Expect some lively raffle items, including home organizing and original artwork. Tickets and tables for The Holiday Ball are sold out, but even those who aren’t attending will have the opportunity to purchase raffle tickets and make financial contributions. Every donation helps in ways seen and unseen as people’s lives are so positively impacted by the good work of The Counseling Center and all the programs at The Community House.

The Holiday Ball takes place Saturday, December 3, 2022, at The Community House, 415 West Eighth Street, Hinsdale, beginning with cocktails at 6:30 p.m., thecommunityhouse.org.

The Holiday Ball transforms The Community House for one night a year, and lights up valuable programs and essential counseling programs all year.

Luxe booth at Jonny Cab’s

Here’s … Jonny’s

The new Jonny Cab’s dining room and concert venue is bringing great steaks and a foot-tapping vibe to Burr Ridge.

WORDS BY PETER WREN / PHOTOGRAPHT BY IAN MCLEOD

If I may be so brash as to butcher a famous lyric from the immortal Johnny Cash: I’ve eaten everywhere, man. Taquerias. Teppanyaki. Trattorias. Taverns. Tea Rooms. Pubs, Pop-ups and private lounges. Bistros. Brauhauses. Brasseries. Buffets. From greasy spoons to golden spoons, I’ve seen my share, man. But noting quite like what we experienced in Burr Ridge a few weeks back.

It’s the most action I’ve seen in a swanky dining room in long, long time. There we were sitting at a prime table—front row, about 15 feet from the main stage—at Jonny Cab’s, the new restaurant and live entertainment venue, having a grand old time, sipping and noshing away.

Slick cocktails. A smart yet inexpensive wine list. A great burger— try the house special, dressed to the nines with caramelized onions, a thick blanket of provolone, and lots of crispy bacon. Killer flatbreads. And to top it all off, a balsamic-glazed strip steak that would make old Arnie Morton’s blush with envy.

Normally, that would be more than enough to make for an enjoyable Saturday evening. Only Jonny Cab’s is committed to giving everyone a little something more. A daily double, so to speak—dinner and dancing.

The transformation will happen suddenly. The lights will dim.

Jon “Jonny Cab” Metcalf

DINNER DATE

Musicians with take the stage. And the whole timbre of the place will instantly change.

During our visit, everyone’s napkins were initially planted politely in their laps, feet practically cemented to the floor. But as soon as the evening’s musical act—a talented rock-n-roll tribute band named Jonny Lyons & the Pride—started strumming and drumming and crooning, the whole place just erupted with motion.

The band played some Johnny Cash. Covered a few hits from the Temptations. And a little something, something from The King. And quicker than you could say Graceland—couples were tossing aside their napkins and making a beeline to the dance floor. They sprung from their chairs, some leaving their steaks and flatbreads and salads waiting patiently on the table, and just started partying like it was 1959.

It’s like Elvis—God rest his well-coiffed pompadour—has returned to the building.

Some slow danced. Some did their best Chubby Checker

impression. And a few folks shaked and shimmied enough to work up a real sweat.

Twenty-somethings. Forty-somethings. Fifty-somethings. Hell, there might have been a few folks up there who actually knew Elvis back in the day, for all I know.

“I love this,” my wife whispered to me, somewhere between a soulful take on Can’t Take My Eyes off of You and what I’d describe as a rather soulful slice of carrot cake. “It’s like being invited to someone’s wedding, only they’re serving good food and sprang for live entertainment, rather than a boring old DJ.”

Truth is, I think that about sums up the appeal of the place. You eat well. You drink well. You dance—sometimes not so well. But you’re guaranteed to smile a whole lot.

When I slipped back, somewhere in the middle of Jonny’s set, to ask a hostess whether the dance floor was always this busy, she just nodded her head and said, “Whenever there’s music’s playing, someone’s dancing.”

It’s precisely the way the ownership team—Jon “Jonny Cab” Metcalf, Patrick Magnesen and Gene Halleran—mapped it out.

You can thank Patrick and his father, Scott, for the entertainment. Not only have they poured their heart and soul into making sure the space was acoustically pure, but they’re also responsible for selecting all the performers.

Dueling pianos. Motown. Salsa nights. Contemporary cover artists. You’ll have your pick as the year rolls on. Originally, the idea was to create a sports bar concept, only Metcalf knew that he also wanted to provide locals a place where they could enjoy more nuanced sit-down meals paired with plenty of great wine.

The space itself, is sharp, especially the cobalt-blue bar. but to the side of the restaurant sits the members-only Bin Club lounge and

Caption

Herb dijon pork chops

The Santa Fe salad

Cocktails

Although wine is the drink of choice at Jonny’s, the bar serves seltzers, a limited beer list and plenty of colorful cocktails.

The Lovey:

Some bartenders, of late, seemed to have fallen a little too much in love with everyone’s favorite elderflower liquor: St. Germain. But at Jonny’s the hints of passion fruit and plumeria from the liquor infuse a lilt of springtime into a citrusy vodka drink that’s topped off with a touch of prosecco.

dining room.

The good news: For a one-time $2,500 membership fee—plus $300 a year— you’ll claim a wine locker, which holds roughly 15 bottles. Members are invited to complimentary wine tastings, given access to the restaurant’s exclusive bottle list and, on occasion, are free to order bottles from Metcalf’s wholesale wine list.

The bad news: Membership to the Bin Club sold out immediately, requiring Metcalf to already start a waiting list.

Metcalf, himself, used to be a beer drinker. Then, decades ago, he watched a segment on 60 Minutes about the link between longevity and good vino. He started tasting and sipping and has never looked back. He’s spent decades scouring Sonoma, Napa, and Mendocino for great finds, which is why the restaurant’s wine list is so heavily weighted toward California producers.

His regular wine list doesn’t have a single bottle over $100, but he’s gone to great lengths to ensure his selections marry well with Chef Jeff Stahulak’s approachable menu.

We loved, for instance, our carne asada flatbread. Which reads as if Stahulak decided to throw the proverbial kitchen sink into it—mozzarella, pesto aioli, sliced prime rib, pico de gallo, lime crema—but it works splendidly. Imagine a fully loaded bowl of gourmet nachos set on a flatbread that cracks and snaps just like a huge tortilla chip.

The restaurant’s philosophy regarding food is to give customers whatever they want. You can opt for something casual, including sandwiches, chicken wings, salads, and the occasional funnel-cake inspired dessert. Or you can order like you’re at a steakhouse:

Dijon-glazed bone-in pork chop, Vera Cruzstyle red snapper or rib-eyes and filets.

In a welcome throwback, all entrées come with your choice of two sides. The twomust-try accompaniments are the mashed potatoes—rather impressive spuds that deliver the color and flavor of a rich pot pie gravy—as well as a simple grilled vegetable medley composed of squash, zucchini and other seasonal selections.

As previously mentioned, you can’t go wrong with the skirt steak, which benefits from a fine chimichurri. But mostly, I think it’s the sum of all these parts—the wine, the food, the friendly service, and all that great sound pouring forth from the stage—that’s bound to win people over.

As my wife said, “I don’t think there’s any place like this in Chicago.” She’s right, but thanks to this plucky group of wine-lovers and entertainers, there’s now one sitting right in the heart of Burr Ridge.

Jonny Cab’s is located at 212 Burr Ridge Parkway, Burr Ridge. Visit jonnycabs.com or call 630.468.2125

Lucid Dream:

We recommend pairing this tequila-based treat, which comes adorned with a flower and a tangle of lemon peel, with the carne asada flatbread. Lots of smoke, a little citrus and a hint of that semi-sweet prickly pear juice is a perfect partner for Latin flavors.

Blackened ahi tuna tostada

Red snapper Vera Cruz

Kris Berger Presents

Mockingbird

Oak Brook

New!

& GIVING

Fire & Ice

Celebrating 50 years of Red Devil Hockey and raising money for player scholarships were two very good reasons for members and friends of the Hinsdale Central Hockey Club to gather at the home of Jeffrey and Tina Weller. Thanks to generous sponsorships and donations, the next few years look to be some of the very best for the Ice Devils. hinsdalecentralhockey.net

Photography by Ian McLeod

Stacy & Mike Devine

Sam & Carrie Sharp

Stephanie Hannan, Lauren Houder, Dotti Martin, Parita Singla

Molly & Nate Lucht

Dane Sana & Alexandra Coletto

Rebecca & Spencer Anderson

Dr. Jeffrey & Tina Weller

LIsa & Tim Romberger

Craft Beer Fest

Connoisseurs and casual fans gathered to sample beers from 20 distinct breweries offering 50 varieties. Best of all, this lively event raised money for Wellness House and The People’s Resource Center. Sponsored by Hinsdale Bank and Trust, this was the third annual Fest. wellnesshouse.org

Photography by Ian McLeod

Mitch Jensen, Christina Fallstick

Scott & Stephanie Carey

Laura & Jeff Preusser

Ann Marie Hayes, Karen Eck, Kathy Washburn

Liza Larsen, Deborah Lenchard

LIVING & GIVING

Butler International Cup

A glorious sunny Sunday was just what a large group of polo fans ordered. The Butler Invitational Cup drew families, friends, and a festive group of Hinsdale Junior Woman’s Club (HJWC) revelers welcoming new couples. The centennial season of Oak Brook Polo was a divotsmashing success. oakbrookpoloclub.com

Photography by Ian McLeod

Gina Duman, Andrea Reo, Lindsey Tate

Lance & Virginia Phillips, Katie & Steve Marcotte

The Holtzman Family

Julia Belden, Viktoria Stasishin, Maryana Dyachuk

Jaclyn McNamara, Lauren Glandt

Elizabeth & Van Ewing

Olga Kha & Jeet Singh

Dr. Sonal Gupta, Dr. Puja Sethi

Eriq & Lisa Harris

& GIVING

Ritz-Carlton Residences at Estero Bay

A fashionable crowd joined The Dawn McKenna Group for a sneak peek at The Ritz-Carlton Residences at Estero Bay. This refined tower in Southwest Florida is set to welcome owners wishing to live within nature while experiencing the finest service in 2025.

dawnmckennagroup.com Photography by Ian McLeod

Lauren Walz, Ashley Baird

Stephanie & Freddie Brzozowski

Dawn McKenna, Catherine Johnson, Ardel McKenna, Kathleen Thanas

Kristin Burton, Marta Petrushcha, Katie Isadore

Vishal & Smreti Didwania

Isabella Rico, Karen Rico, Matthew Rico

Kelly & Julie Nash

Kayla Weiss, Dawn McKenna, Jordyn Morris

Sandblasting

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LIVING & GIVING

Illuminate

The Woman’s Board of RUSH University Medical Center hosted its annual Fall Benefit, themed “Illuminate,” at Theater on the Lake in Chicago. Nearly 400 guests gathered to raise funds for the RUSH University Medical Center’s education, research, and community service programs, as well as The Woman’s Board Fund for Excellence in Cellular Therapy. thewomansboard.org

Photography by Robin Subar

Jeff and Corlyn Simmons, Richard and Andrea Burridge, Jill McNichols

Event co-chairs Sonja Smith and Erin Ritchie

Kurt Mancillas and Cindy Clark Mancillas

Dr. Najia Shakoor and Dr. Omar LateefDina Brown, Melissa Brown

Illusionist Mike O’Donnell entertains guests

Weller

Group Welcomes

Family Care we know how valuable

time is, that’s why our experienced staff is waiting to

for

and your family. We know being sick takes a toll on

body,

finances, and your life—so the next time a cold or flu visits you, visit us. We’re open every day with

Mike McCurry, Local Real Estate Expert

For 32 years, Mike has served 1,600+

a full-time

the

He has

in

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.

his

being

Assessing Your Student’s Academic Performance and Potential

WORDS BY MATTHEW PIETRAFETTA PH.D.

The National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), the largest continuing and nationally representative assessment of what American students know, recently released its 2022 report card on 9-year-old students. The results were concerning: reading showed the largest drop since 1990 and math dropped for the first time since NAEP testing began in the 1970s.

The headline from a New York Times article about the NAEP report, “The Pandemic Erased Two Decades of Progress in Math and Reading,” delivers a clear message: pandemic-related deficits in academic progress are real, and, most likely, this is just a glimpse of what is to be revealed by the forthcoming 2022 report cards for 13-year-old students and 17-year-old students.

As an education company that has seen multiple massive overhauls in the education and test preparation industries since we started in 2001, Academic Approach takes a tempered, bigpicture, research-driven approach when considering industry trends or viral articles. Is the 2022 NAEP report card reason to panic? Absolutely not.

However, this initial NAEP report card does reinforce something we’ve seen in both our data on individual student progress and school-wide testing: achievement is down. Students in the past two years are simply scoring lower and growing more slowly.

What does this suggest?

Interrupted learning means that—in many cases—less academic material has been covered and less personalization of instruction has taken place. Therefore, the need for supplementing education has intensified.

The NAEP report highlights this reality. Students across the board have lost ground. When looking at students in the 90th percentile, the data show a 2-point drop in reading and a 3-point drop in math; students in the 10th percentile register a 10-point drop in reading and a 12-point drop in math. The overall concern is that once a student falls behind at any level, it becomes harder and harder to catch up.

Future Academic Potential

What does this mean for your student?

It’s always been important—but perhaps more so than ever— to properly assess how well students have mastered essential college readiness skills. Parents can help by talking with teachers, gathering feedback from quizzes and tests, and observing students’ academic behaviors and mindsets.

Try to get granular in your understanding of the specific skills your student needs to master.

If you’re not sure where to start, contact us. We’ll help you assess your student by taking the following steps:

• Administer a practice test (high school entrance exam, ACT, PSAT, or SAT) that covers essential reading, grammar, and math skills

• Provide you with a complimentary consultation to analyze your student’s results

• Perform a quantitative analysis (score-driven, skills-driven) as well as a qualitative analysis (identifying your student’s learning style and personalized needs)

• Help you determine the type and timing of any supplement needed to address your student’s learning needs and help your student maximize their learning potential

Understanding your student’s current academic performance is the crucial first step in helping your student make up for any learning loss and reach their full academic potential. We expect more data on learning loss to continue to illuminate the challenges students are facing and may continue to face in the coming years. Academic Approach is ready to meet these challenges and is here to help.

For more information, visit academicapproach.com/hinsdaleliving or call 630-454-9873.

Thinking

make buying a home as easy as you can imagine. From start to finish, I’ll be there to guide you through the entire home buying experience. I myself transitioned from an Illinois resident to a Florida resident. Now my goal as a professional is to make that transition as easy as possible for my clients.

me if you want to

Paradise

home!