The North Shore Weekend EAST, Issue 9

NO. 9

NORTHSHOREWEEKEND.COM

SATURDAY DECEMBER 8 | SUNDAY DECEMBER 9 2012

FEATURING THE NEWS AND PERSONALITIES OF WILMETTE, KENILWORTH, WINNETKA, NORTHFIELD, GLENCOE, HIGHLAND PARK, & LAKE FOREST

Giving Back Julie Floyd’s Lovies bring smiles to children —and also absorb their tears. >

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Inside This

North Shore Weekend NEWS 08 Climb every mountain A couple of Highland Park residents are set to climb Mount Kilimanjaro in Africa for a good cause

10 Giving back

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Winnetka businesswoman Julie Floyd has helped bring sanity to troubled kids.

REAL ESTATE

12 Put a stop to it What are North Shore schools doing to prevent bullying?

26 Finding the best Many on the North Shore offer their services as a contractor.

Here’s what to think about when hiring one.

14 Doggone helpful Tails of Hope in Highland Park is one of a few agencies on North Shore where dogs are rescued and can be adopted.

27 North Shore Offerings Take a look at intriguing houses in our towns.

LIFESTYLE & ARTS

16 Grape time A North Shore group enjoys making and drinking its own wine.

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Wednesday Bridie Burger day

18 Social whirl Take a look at some of the top parties attended by North Shore residents recently.

20 Your Weekend Agenda Find out about the top events coming up this weekend on the North Shore.

28 Open House A large list — complete with map — of where to find your next home on the North Shore this weekend.

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trim more than just the tree.

Don’t procrastinate

on giving back

S

uccess is to be admired. Talent gets an appreciative nod. But what truly deserves the highest praise is giving back.

So many adults on the North Shore are busy. It is easy to put giving back far down the list, well after going to work, helping the kids with their homework, paying bills and other important commitments. Once we’re retired and the children are through college, the thinking goes, then we’ll give back. Who has time before then?

Julie Floyd is one. The owner of Classic Photography in Winnetka has helped bring sanity to children who, through no fault of their own, have endured the worst. Her poignant and powerful story is crafted by Bill McLean in these pages.

In fact, by chance, this issue features other giving-back stories. Some Highland Park residents are poised to climb Mount Kilimanjaro — not for their own edification, but to help out paramedics in Israel by raising money through their venture. Not only do those brave medics help the wounded, they’re often under fire while doing so.

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Enjoy the weekend.

David Sweet Editor in Chief david@northshoreweekend.com

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DAVID SWEET, Editor in Chief

Contributing Writers

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PERFORMANCE highland park residents to climb mt. kilimanjaro to aid israel Howard Zavell and his two sons, Max, 15 (right) and Ben, 12, have trained at Fort Sheridan for their upcoming trip to climb Mount Kilimanjaro.

photography by j.geil ■ by

angelika labno

Amidst the clashes and violence in Israel, there is one group that is readily available to care for the injured — regardless of the afflicted’s sex, religion or nationality.

That group is Magen David Adom (MDA), Israel’s national aid society. One Highland Park resident has found a way to raise awareness for MDA that reaches new heights, literally: Howard Zavell, his sons, Max, 15, and Ben, 12, and his cousin, James Milin, plan to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro in Africa before the end of the year while raising donations through his project, Operation Climb.

“With the situation in Israel today, it makes it even more relevant and important,” said Zavell, referring to the country’s troubles with Hamas. “They need our support.”

The idea hatched from Max’s bar mitzvah project, where he worked to raise money for MDA’s Red Bag of Courage (younger brother Ben is participating in the same program). A donation of $1,000 buys a bag for paramedic use, containing medical supplies such as oxygen masks and syringes. In December 2010, the family traveled to Israel and got a chance to visit an MDA station.

“In America, paramedics respond to an

accident and don’t have to worry about being under fire; there, it’s a different story,” said Zavell. “We quickly recognized how important their work is.”

Climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro has long been an ambition for Zavell. A friend suggested he turn the climb into something bigger, leading Zavell to collaborate with friends and prominent members of the Jewish community, and eventually coming up with Operation Climb. People can visit www.opclimbmda. com to read more about the climb, MDA and to donate directly to the organization.

Zavell and his boys have been preparing to climb the Africa’s tallest mountain (19,336 feet high) for over a year. They have gotten their vaccinations, including yellow fever and Hepatitis A and B, and plan to take malaria pills throughout the course of the trip.

Their survival kit includes a portable water filtration system, UV light system and a first aid kit filled with various over-the-counter medicines and iodine tablets. Keeping their backpacks under 40 pounds will be no easy feat, as they also have to prepare for the various climates.

“It’s a very unique climb, because it takes you through so many different ecosystems,” said Zavell. The route starts in montane

forest, weaves through rain forest, hits an alpine desert and ends in arctic conditions.

The clearest and warmest conditions are from December to February, according to Tanzania National Parks.

The hardest part of the trip is getting over the emotional boundaries; we’re going across the world,” — Max Zavell “The hardest part of the trip is getting over the emotional boundaries; we’re going across the world,” said Max, with Ben following up in agreement.

The family’s physical training consisted of stair climbing the bluffs by Fort Sheridan, up to three hours at a time at various paces, and rapid hiking with a backpack. Zavell, a former athlete, lost 25 pounds in the process. His sons also are athletes and former Boy Scouts, and the three camped together last winter.

They plan to spend seven days ascending the mountain and two days coming down.

Having his sons with him makes Zevell want to ensure everything is in place for a positive, successful and safe climb, thus making the boys a top priority when creating and preparing for the trip.

“The longer that you make the ascent, the better opportunity you have to summit and to avoid altitude sickness,” said Zavell.

Ben hopes to blow his Shofar at the top of the mountain, as the Judaist instrument is a symbol of strength for him. The group agrees that summiting the mountain and raising awareness for MDA is of equal importance.

Israel’s recent Operation Pillar of Defense put MDA on high alert to protect civilians.

Six days into the violence, MDA teams treated 252 casualties, according MDA’s official website. Israel also heavily relies on MDA’s high inventory in blood banks. According to MDA, the estimated daily costs to operate on a full scale during similar conflicts are more than $250,000. Today, the limited operation functions on a daily cost of more than $115,000.

“Any penny we raise will be helpful,” said Zavell. “The more people we can get involved, the greater impact we can make.” ■

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COVER STORY

Julie Floyd, who owns Classic Photography in Winnetka, has helped bring smiles to children who rarely have anything to smile about.

photography by julie floyd

PICTURE PERFECT ■ by

bill mclean

The original stuffed Lovie animal in “The Lovie Project” no longer has eyes, and its nose is either under the owner’s bed or in one of five states.

But the balding dog is still around, providing comfort as a tattered, faded, floppynecked companion who never talks back and does an excellent job of absorbing teardrops for all occasions.

“It’s a family member,” said Julie Floyd, the project’s founder and owner of Classic Kids Photography in Winnetka.

“A Lovie is also a best friend,” she added.

“It has been loved so hard it’s threadbare.”

A Lovie to Floyd is any object a child

cherished while growing up. Or still cherishes as an adult. It could be a stuffed animal, a doll, a small antique car, a blanket — or, as Floyd likes to say, “a blanky.”

Floyd planted the seed of “The Lovie Project” after watching a segment on WTTW that spotlighted Primo Center, a shelter for homeless women and children located on Chicago’s West Side.

“Each of those children needs to have a Lovie,” Floyd said. “Those kids … They have nothing, and they’re living in a scary world.

“When things are horrible,” she added, “a kid should be able to go to a room or a corner and embrace a great source of comfort.”

In 2011 Floyd launched her creative project, waiving the sitting fee (which can run several

Julie Floyd’s ‘The Lovie Project’ brings smiles to children who have seen the worst hundred dollars) for clients who wanted their Lovies photographed at Classic Kids — as long as each client had purchased a new Lovie for a child at Primo Center.

Floyd and her staff collected the storebought Lovies and (floppy-)earmarked a portion of the print sales to buy even more Lovies.

“What’s also so special about the project is how involved the kids are … the kids from the suburbs,” said Natalie Hartung, head photographer at Classic Kids in Winnetka. “So many of the kids up here pick out the Lovies

When things are horrible, a kid should be able to go to a room or a corner and embrace a great source of comfort.”

— Julie Floyd

for the homeless kids and get to be a part of such a wonderful mission. It’s real cool.”

Shortly after a homeless child enters Primo Center for the first time, the child gets to pick out a donated Lovie and keep it forever.

“Homelessness disrupts any sense of routine and security for people who call Primo Center their temporary home,” said Christine Achre, the center’s director. “Choosing something like a stuffed animal begins the process of building a secure and safe attachment.

“Julie,” she added, “is truly an exceptional woman who connects naturally with children.

She has been so generous with her time and resources to help improve the lives of our women and children.”

Floyd recently dropped off a small village of brand-new Lovies at Primo Center. One of the first to greet her was a 2-year-old named Trey, holding a stuffed Lovie dog he named Two. Trey and Two were one … inseparable.

“You should have seen this little boy,” recalled Floyd, a Winnetka resident and mother of four sons (ages 6 to 21). “He was the most beautiful, smiley, happy boy in the

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world at that moment, clutching his Lovie while looking up at me. I couldn’t help but think, ‘A real tough life would eventually encroach on him and his mother.’

“A Lovie, for some, is such a small thing,” she added. “But for Trey, it is such a huge thing. That was clear to me that day.”

Floyd owns three Classic Kids shops in Illinois and one each in California, New York and Connecticut. Floyd figured some 400 families donated more than 600 Lovies in 2011. Those numbers are down in ’12, but The Lovie Project has also resulted in other donations, such as funds to buy strollers, car seats, toys and furniture for Primo Center inhabitants.

“We are tremendously grateful for having been selected a recipient of Julie’s project,” Primo’s Achre said. “The families we house aren’t just homeless; unfortunately close to

100 percent of them have also experienced some form of trauma.

“These additional stressors,” she added, “place even more of an emphasized need for this type of project.”

One of the unusual Lovie subjects Floyd and her staff photographed was that of a stuffed turtle. But that Lovie had lost its shell.

“It looked like a green worm,” Floyd said.

Another Lovie owner dropped off three stuffed Grovers. Each looked nothing like the “Sesame Street” staple, and one of the stuff puppets was too fragile to pose.

“Practically every strand of hair on those three Grovers had been pulled off,” Floyd said.

“Nobody would have been able to recognize them as Grovers.”

To donate or for more information on The Lovie Project, please contact Julie Floyd and her staff at (847) 446-2064. ■

COVER STORY SIDEBAR

Breakfast Crew opens eyes, fills stomachs — and hearts ■ by

bill mclean

It’s the world’s best alarm clock. But it doesn’t make a sound.

It’s the aroma of sausage links and eggs — all set to be consumed.

“That usually wakes them up,” Jim Seymour said.

Seymour heads a fifth-year Breakfast Crew from First Presbyterian Church in Lake Forest. Once a month — sometimes twice — its members hear the blare of traditional alarm clocks at 3 a.m., climb out of bed and drive to Wesley Free Methodist Church in Waukegan, where PADS (Providing Advocacy, Dignity and Shelter) relies on the crew to cook for up to 44 homeless folks. Contingents from six other local parishes help in the same way at other times.

People in need are in our backyard, not just in the inner city.”

— Jim Seymour “People kind of forget how close in proximity people in need are,” Seymour said. “People in need are in our backyard, not just in the inner city.”

Among Seymour’s fellow earlier risers who crack eggs before the crack of dawn are Curt Stanton, Carl Stevens, Joe Burger, Kemper Ryan, Jaime Wildman, Dewey Winebrenner, Dan O’Neil, Mike McGlynn, John Gescheidle, Chris Coffin, Corey Nelson, Jeff Hinch and Nick Burlew.

The crew’s original “Egg Man,” Seymour noted, is Archie Fletcher, a member of PADS’

board of directors.

“It’s one of the many great mission works being done at First Presbyterian, with a nice legacy,” said Seymour, adding many crew regulars head to full-time jobs after preparing the breakfasts. “We tend to overdo it a little, making around 120 eggs, between 100-150 sausage links and I don’t know how many pieces of toast.

“We do enjoy serving.”

The group likes to have fun shortly after entering Wesley Free Methodist Church’s kitchen. Some are usually half-asleep upon arrival.

Others are in various stages of punchiness.

“We love to razz each other,” Seymour said.

“We’ve held fun debates; we’ve argued about the number of eggs you can cook in a pan at once. And we burn toast all the time. We usually put the new guy in charge of the toast, not an easy duty. It’s hard, with all those pieces of bread, to keep up with the toasters.”

At 6 a.m., an hour after waking up, the fully sated recipients hop on a bus for a return trip to a PADS facility in Lake County. Some then head to work, where they don’t have to worry about going hungry at lunch – thanks, again, to the good people at First Presbyterian in Lake Forest.

“We pack them a lunch and give it to them after breakfast,” said Seymour. “Our Sunday School kids decorate the lunch bags and put cards in the bags. On the cards are messages, written by the kids.

“The people we serve are very appreciative.”

But Seymour and his bleary-eyed cooks don’t do what they do in the wee hours for looks of appreciation.

“It’s not about getting thanked,” he insisted.

“It’s about helping the homeless get off to a good start that day.” ■

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SCHOOLS WORKING TO FACE DOWN BULLIES Social media adds new twist to an age-old problem Each day 160,000 students in the U.S. miss school because of bullying, according to the Centers for Disease Control.

photography by jim prisching ■ by

bill mclean

Wilmette Junior High School Principal Dave Palzet stood before hundreds of students at an assembly early last fall and ordered them to take out their cellphones.

Palzet then announced a cellphone number and asked them to add it to their contact lists.

A discordant chorus of beeps and boops and pings followed.

The students’ newly loaded cell number was … Palzet’s.

“He did that because he was concerned about bullying,” recalled Josh Andrews, a physical education teacher/athletic director at the school. “Bullying … It’s been a hot topic for years. Our principal wanted the kids to text him immediately if they were ever bullied at school or knew of someone getting bullied.

“He was nervous, thinking he’d get 800 or so random texts that had nothing to do with the issue,” Andrews added. “But he didn’t. What he did was a great move; it’s been effective.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control, each day 160,000 students in the U.S. miss school because of bullying.

Every 30 minutes, a teenager attempts suicide due to bullying.

There are many kinds of bullying at elementary, middle and high schools. Four of them: physical, verbal, cyber and social alienation.

“The awareness of bullying is up, and most schools have anti-bullying policies,” said Cara Novy-Bennewitz, a physical education teacher at Old Orchard Junior High

School in Skokie. “Bullying has been shift- Hoffman Estates high schools have been in ing lately from overt forms, like physical and the news lately. But not because of gamewinning goals or slam dunks. verbal, to online forms and texting.

School districts are investigating allega“Kids are getting sneaky as bullies,” she tions of hazing by athletes at both schools. added. “They’re able to hide while bullying Hazing is an egregious form of bullying. because of technology. But when our school Alienation – deliberately and regularly becomes aware of bullying, even if it’s done through Facebook from a student’s home, shunning a student at, say, a table in a school the kid gets called out cafeteria or at a playand there’s mediation at ground – is not. school.”

But it’s also hurtful One million children and it often shrinks They’re able to hide were harassed, threata target’s self-esteem, ened or subjected to while bullying because much to the delight of other forms of cyber the bully. bullying on Facebook of technology. But when “The best way to in 2010, according to a our school becomes prevent bu llying,” Consumer Reports sursaid Wilmette Junior vey conducted in early aware of bullying, even High’s Andrews, “is 2011. to have constant conLake Forest Academy if it’s done through Face- versations about it. In senior Porter Veach book from a student’s homerooms we discuss recently read a caustic it with students, espeTwitter tweet authored home, the kid gets called cially if it’s in the news. by an LFA student and Conversations, though, directed at another out and there’s mediahave to start when a student. kid is in kindergarten. tion at school.”

He confronted the Parents and educators tweeter the next day. need to start talking — Cara Novy-Bennewitz with kids about it then “What was tweeted for all to see was awful, and start encouraging so awful,” Veach said. “We were all given a kids to stand up for themselves.” guidebook at the beginning of the school Unfortunately bystanders to “bully year, and there’s zero tolerance here for moments” at schools often do exactly that: drugs, alcohol and bullying. stand by.

“It’s in a lot of our brains now that any And do nothing. kind of bullying should never be tolerated “We’re concerned about those students, on our campus or anywhere.” too,” Andrews added. “What they’re doing Sports programs at Maine West and – what they’re not doing, really – is almost

as bad as what the bully is doing. It’s important that students stand up for others as well as for themselves.”

Lake Forest High School senior Sam Downey, all 6-foot-9 of him, has never had to stick up for an overmatched student who is in a no-win situation with a bully at school.

But if he ever faces such a scenario, he knows what he’d do.

“I’d intervene,” Yale-bound Downey said. “What’s been encouraging at our school is the great job the people running our Emotional Wellness Program are doing.

I’ve noticed people at our school tend to be more inclusive around people now than they were when I was a freshman.”

Joanne Yorro serves as program manager at Committee Representing Our Young Adults (CROYA) in Lake Forest. She and other staff members work closely with schools in Lake Forest and Lake Bluff, and she’s well aware bullying is being addressed in each.

Her organization focuses on helping youth develop positive skills.

“We emphasize the importance of such skills as active listening, effective leadership and developing good, lasting friendships,” Yorro said. “Everything we do is geared toward the positive, geared toward kids treating their peers the right way.”

Bullies will never go the dinosaurs’ route and disappear completely. But there’s a good chance they’ll reach endangered species status before long.

On the website Kids Against Ridicule, Meanness and Aggression (KARMA), one of the bully facts listed is, “In schools that have a bullying program, bullying is reduced by 50 percent.” ■

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THE NORTH SHORE WEEKEND

SOCIAL MEDIA

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Allison Godwin Neumeister

photography by jim prisching

Neumeister is on the go with humanitarian work ■ by

katie rose mceneely

Allison Godwin Neumeister has a background in corporate communications and a passion for humanitarian work; now she travels to East Africa twice annually to support the health and educational needs of villagers in rural Uganda and speaks about her experiences when she’s back home. She’ll return to Uganda in January to assist at a health clinic. Learn more about her work and her speaking engagements on her website, africaoffline. org Reading: Currently I’m reading, “Why Nations Fail,” “White Man’s Burden,” and “The Strength in What Remains.” I’m concerned about China’s expanding role in Africa, and “Why Nations Fail” [discusses a lot of the issue associated with that]. It’s an extraordinary insight into core political and economic systems.

Listening: Bach’s cello suites.

Music is a big part of my life, and the cello suites are on my top ten list. I also like global influences in modern rock music—the Rolling Stones and the Beatles did some of that. I love the soundtrack for “The Inside Man.” Watching: My favorite movie happens to be a foreign film.

“Incendies” is on my top three. It speaks to

me on a personal level and I’ll go back and watch it again and again. I look to these foreign films for inspiration, but sometimes I just want to zone out and laugh.

Following: I follow Doctors Without Borders and their efforts to provide healthcare in some of the most dangerous parts of the world. I’ve give up on major network news, but have recently discovered great information on Al Jazeera English (AJE).

Activity: I hope I can find time to sail this summer. I grew up in Minnesota and love being on a sailboat or in a canoe. During the winter, I try to stay in shape for the physical demands of climbing up and down the slopes of Mt. Elgon in Uganda.

I’m really not that tough, so I have to work on endurance.

Eating: What I love the most is steak with mushroom sauce and a bottle of Brunello di Montalcino.

I can’t think of a better combination—I dream about this meal when in Africa, eating beans and rice every day. It’s an indulgence for special occasions.

Favorite Mistake: I was really naïve when I first went to Uganda.

I, like many young idealists, went into it with a preconceived idea, and was quite startled by the realities on the ground. Doesn’t matter what movies you’ve seen or what book you’ve read: it’s hard to imagine how corrupt and sad the situation is. ■

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A pet’s best friend Tails of Hope has saved more than 3,500 dogs and cats — and countinga

Kelly Moyer, owner of Tails of Hope dog rescue in Highland Park, gets together with her pet Great Dane, Samson.

photography by j.geil

Tails of Hope has saved more than 3,500 dogs and cats — and counting ■ by

angelika labno

This past year, Kelly Moyer placed her non-profit nokill animal rescue and adoption organization in its own facility in Highland Park. In June, the nine-year-old organization was put to the ultimate test: saving more than 20 Persian cats from horrid conditions.

“There are no words to describe it,” said Moyer. “I have never seen conditions like that before.”

Highland Park residents Jorjick and Agnes Badalpour were fined more than $21,000 for mistreating 21 cats in the garage next to the house. Upon entry, Moyer recalls feces and urine covering the floor, one litter box

There are no words to describe it.

I have never seen conditions like that before.”

pat byrnes/the new yorker collection/www.cartoonbank.com

— Kelly Moyer

and no vent to bring in fresh air.

One of the cats was pregnant and was taken in for immediate surgery. Several more had tails amputated.

Tails of Hope spent more than $10,000 rehabilitating the cats and has seen all but seven cats adopted.

“Just seeing the transformation was incredible,” said Moyer. “We didn’t think they’d come around the way they have.”

The rescue is just one of the heartfelt stories the organization routinely produces. Moyer’s original conception stemmed from her dying father’s wish of ensuring his pets would be taken care of after he passed on. She then carried out the mission to help the elderly and

terminally ill no longer able to care for their pets by placing their cats and dogs in a loving home.

In its early days, volunteers and foster homes took in the pets until they were adopted out. It has since evolved into a rescue shelter, with an increase in cats and dogs from all over, which Moyer said is a reflection of the economy. Boarding services are also a new addition. Over the years, Moyer has saved more than 3,500 dogs and cats.

The facility strives to create a “warm, homey environment” with two outdoor, three indoor play areas, and rooms with sofas for volunteers and adopters to get together. Moyer also gets dogs on a schedule to make it feel like a real home. Unlike other shelters, the adoption process is quite selective. After filling out an application, Tails of Hope does a home visit, gets to know the adopter, and then starts recommending dogs.

“There’s a greater likelihood for successful adoption that way,” said Moyer.

Tails of Hope relies on volunteers and donations, and regularly runs fundraisers and events to raise money.

As the holidays are usually a time that people are inspired to give, be it with their time and/or money, Moyer hopes to raise more awareness for Tails of Hope.

“If people did a little bit of something, whether it’s volunteer, donate, foster or adopt, it all makes a huge difference,” said Moyer.

Pet owners can do holiday shopping for their pets or other pet lovers at Tails of Hope’s Holiday Boutique from Dec. 7-9. The temporary space at 806 Central Ave. was donated to the organization for that weekend There are 50 dogs and 20 cats available for adoption. Donations can be made through www.tailsofhope.org and all proceeds from the gifts will benefit its homeless cats and dogs. ■

12/08-12/09/12

news | 15

THE NORTH SHORE WEEKEND

STANDOUT STUDENT

SOLID

NEWS DIGEST REVIEW

MECHANICS

PREVIEW

LAKE FOREST

GLENCOE

The City of Lake Forest and The Deerpath Garden Club of Lake Forest just completed a transformation of the area known as Settlers Square.

Deerpath Garden Club began to raise funds directed toward the east side of the train station off Waukegan Road in 2007.

Included are new pedestrian walkways, street lighting, plant materials, better access to the pedestrian drop-off landing at the Telegraph Train Station, handicap access to sidewalks and two benches for outdoor seating.

A number of events will take place on Saturday, Dec. 8 as part of the Glencoe Chamber of Commerce Saturdays of the Season.

From 10 a.m.-noon, the New Trier Swing Choir will perform; from 11 a.m.-3 p.m.

Books on Vernon will offer hot pretzels.

The Salvation Army Youth Band will perform from 1 p.m.-4 p.m. Saturdays of the Season will be at the northeast corner of Park and Vernon.

Contact glencoechamber@yahoo.com for more information.

WILMETTE

GLENCOE

The Village of Wilmette is hosting a collection site for the Chicago Marine Toys for Tots Foundation at Village Hall.

Residents can drop off new unwrapped toys at Village Hall, located at 1200 Wilmette Ave. Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Wednesdays from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Toys can be dropped off through Wednesday, Dec. 12.

For more information on the Toys for Tots Foundation, please go to www.toysfortots.org.

The Glencoe Village Caucus and Glencoe School Board Caucus will present their slates for Village Board, Park Board, Library Board and School Board at a Town Hall Meeting on Tuesday, Dec. 11 at 7:30 p.m. at Central School’s Young Auditorium.

The Town Hall meeting will provide a chance to sign petitions to put candidates’ names on the ballot for the April 2013 election. The Caucus is funded entirely by residents’ private contributions.

WINNETKA The New Trier Republican Organization moved its headquarters to Winnetka Dec. 1 after 33 years in Kenilworth.

NTRO’s new address is 460 Winnetka Ave. — Suite 1, Winnetka, IL 60093.

“We take great memories from our time in Kenilworth,” NTRO Committeeman Bill Cadigan said. “Our Kenilworth headquarters served as a springboard to launch the careers of John Porter, Mark Kirk and Robert Dold. We look forward to making some history in the years to come in Winnetka.”

LAKE FOREST On Dec. 12, the two parcels of land purchased by the Society of the Sacred Heart in 1901 will be reunited, as the 23-acre former Barat College property is accepted by Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart as a gift.

According to a Woodlands press release, a master plan designed by Perkins and Will will guide the development of the campus. Task forces will decide the best use of the 30,000-square-foot library on the property.

Other items that are part of the gift include the demolition of the Old Main building, the creation of roads and parking areas, and the planting of grass for a lawn area and athletic fields.

Highland Park’s Burroughs shines in robot programming ■ by

angelika labno

When someone knows a foreign language, one’s mind immediately jumps to Spanish, German, or French— otherwise known as the languages offered in high school.

Jacob Burroughs, junior at Highland Park High School, is fluent in a different kind of language—the language of robot programming.

As the chief programmer of his school’s Robotics Team for the second year in a row, Burroughs writes the code for a robot, typing out commands that the robot is to perform.

He explains two ways to learn the language: through tutorials that come with software or in online forums where people explain how to accomplish certain things. The team’s supervising teacher, Jonathan Weiland, notes that Burroughs uses advanced programming techniques using a “protoboard” and that Burroughs posts his programs on national forums for others to use.

“He volunteers to learn everything about the program,” said Weiland, noting that Burroughs knows virtually everything about building a robot and the rules that follow, acting as the “rules guru” of the team. “He balances many activities and roles and does them all well.”

Burroughs’ expertise contributed to his team winning the INSPIRE award, the highest award at the regional level, for the past two years at the FIRST Tech Challenge, a national tournament.

“When the robot works as it’s supposed to, it’s exciting to see all the hours that we put in after school pay off,” said Burroughs, who estimates about 50 hours just to get to the first version of a robot.

Once competition season is over, Burroughs spends the last two months of the school year mentoring a group of middle school students as part of the Rising Stars program, specifically teaching them how to program a robot.

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Jacob Burroughs

photography by j.geil Also, when his school hosts robotics tournaments, Burroughs, a field technical advisor, helps run the technology.

“It’s a nice experience to be able to do something with my knowledge from robotics; otherwise, it’s not really that useful if it doesn’t benefit other people,” said Burroughs.

This year’s academic course load includes Calculus B.C., computer science and a variety of AP/honors classes. Aside from Robotics, Burroughs is on the math team. At one of this year’s meets, Burroughs wrote a perfect paper; in other words, he correctly answered five out of five questions. The questions are designed to be hard, he says, so he usually answers three to four correctly. The personal achievement also helped the overall team score.

Outside of school, Burroughs is the student representative of the Highland Park Library Board of Trustees. One of his calls to action was helping the board decide to stay open later during finals so that students can study in a safe, quiet environment. Burroughs acquired a sense of how government functions on the local level and experienced just how much work goes into managing an entity like the library. Burroughs also helps out at the library’s Get Tech Savvy program, which helps community members with various technology issues, from sending a text message to using electronic gadgets.

“I sign up for as many things as I have time for,” said Burroughs. “It’s all a learning experience.” ■

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16 | LIFESTYLE & ARTS

Lorenzo DiVito learned how to make wine from his Italian immigrant grandfather.

photography by j.geil

HAVING A ■ by

angelika labno

It is a Sunday night, and six guys on the North Shore are working in a cold cellar under a garage.

For hours, they use tubes to siphon wine from a few giant containers into several five-gallon jugs, just so they can put it back in once the containers are cleaned out. The process is arduous, but some meats and cheeses keep up the morale, along with playful jibes and a genuine comradeship. At the end, they will have completed the first of several rackings of wine.

“Some guys get together and play cards, but this actually creates something,” said Jim Hayes. “It’s fun and different.”

Hayes, along with Jim Hanson, Lorenzo DiVito, Charlie Pecaro, David Putlak and Will Tepens, has been making wine at DiVito’s home on the beach at Fort Sheridan since 2009. It all started when one night, out of the blue, DiVito came up with the idea.

DiVito had been previously been making wine on his own; he learned from his Italian immigrant father, who even used to grow his own grapes back in Italy. When DiVito built his home, he planned in the underground cellar specifically for

TIME |

North Shore friends gather to make Merlot and other wine

winemaking to keep the tradition.

It begins with the delivery of two refrigerated vans of California grapes in September. After being placed in barrels, the free-run juice, which comes from grapes settling on themselves, is gathered from the top, as it is considered the best wine. The remaining juice is pressed or crushed out.

Some guys get together and play cards, but this actually creates something.”

— Jim Hayes The guys let their kids have fun by letting them stomp on the grapes in barrels, “I Love Lucy”-style. The juice is left to ferment for a few weeks before getting stored in 26-gallon containers. Another few weeks later is the first racking, or filtering. After a few more rackings, the wine is finally stored

in bottles and left to age.

“Ideally you store it for three years, but we get a little anxious,” said DiVito, sipping some of last year’s Cabernet. This year, they made Merlot in addition to the Cabernet and will blend the two to produce Bordeaux.

The wine is for personal consumption, and at 70 bottles apiece, there is plenty to entertain with. Some of them have personal wine cellars or otherwise store it at DiVito’s.

“There’s a real sense of accomplishment when people drink it and are like, ‘You made this? Did you buy the juice?’” said Pecaro.

With each year, the guys improve from what they lovingly refer to as “the rusty-nail batch.” Like old pros, they sniff it, critique on tastes throughout rackings, and announce corrections for the upcoming year. After a night of labor, the friends gather around DiVito’s kitchen and devour boxes of pizza, discussing kids and work while watching Sunday Night Football. It starts to look like any old “guy’s night” — only they know it could be a long time before they meet again.

Winemaking gives them something definite to look forward to, as their busy schedules sometime make get-togethers few and far between.

As DiVito simpy put it, “This is a story of friendship.” ■

12/08–12/09/12

lifestyle & arts | 17

THE NORTH SHORE WEEKEND

SUNDAY BREAKFAST ■ by

Marcusson helps guide WTTW in competitive landscape

david sweet

As the chief financial officer of Chicago-based WTTW, which offers programs such as Sesame Street, Reese Marcusson did not expect Big Bird to be a focus of a U.S. presidential debate.

“When I first heard it, I cringed,” said Marcusson, referring to candidate Mitt Romney’s suggestion to moderator Jim Lehrer Oct. 3 that though he liked him and loved Big Bird, he would stop the federal subsidy to PBS if elected.

“But it raised our awareness. The social media outpouring was amazing after the debate. It galvanized our support.”

Over oatmeal, a fruit plate and coffee at The Deer Path Inn, the Lake Forest resident explained that public broadcaster WTTW — which aired its first program in 1955 — is not government supported to the extent that, say, a public school is.

“We have a variety of revenue streams, and more than 50 percent comes from members, donors, corporations and foundations,” said Marcusson, who noted WTTW also receives about $3 million a year from the federal government.

WTTW (Channel 11) is a PBS member station. It’s required to run a number of PBS-produced programs — Downton Abbey, American Experience, and Frontline among others — in certain time slots. The rest of the programming — well-regarded shows such as Chicago Tonight and Check, Please — are created by WTTW itself.

Thanks in part to 12 hours of programming daily dedicated to children, WTTW boasts the largest kids’ audience in Chicago.

“Quality educational media is important,” says Marcusson, whose daughters — Courtney, 19, and Taylor, 15 — enjoyed shows such as Sesame Street growing up.

Not everything WTTW has created has been a hit.

Broadcasts of high-school basketball games on Saturday afternoons never garnered a big audience. And with Milwaukee Public Television (MPTV) broadcast in the Chicago area, competition is keen.

“There are a lot of strong public television stations running a lot of the same programs,” said Marcusson, who pointed out there are nine public television stations in Illinois alone.>

Reese Marcusson

illustration by barry blitt >“There’s probably a better way to do it, but there’s an incen-

Robert Mankoffthe new yorker collection/www.cartoonbank.com

tive for PBS to have more stations to sell products.”

WFMT radio is also in the WTTW fold — but surprising to some, it is a commercial radio station. WBEZ is the station that runs programs such as NPR in Chicago.

Marcusson grew up in Melrose Park. As a youngster, “it was all about sports,” he said. “Anything organized or unorganized, I just wanted to play — morning, noon and night.

To be the 25th man on the worst team in baseball would be the best job in the world.”

After graduating from DePaul University as an accounting

major, Marcusson was hired by KPMG, where he worked for a decade. He joined the non-profit media world at WTTW 22 years ago. In his spare time, he helps the Boys & Girls Club of Lake County and serves on the board of the Lake Forest Library. His wife, Debbie, has been on the Lake Forest High School Foundation Board among other commitments.

At WTTW, Marcusson pitches in as well – answering phones during telethons, for instance.

“It’s a great place to work,” he said as he prepared to leave the Deer Path Inn for his Chicago office. “Everyone’s creative and passionate about what they do. It’s a lot of fun.” ■

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12/08–12/09/12

Misericordia Women’s Board

Heart of Mercy Ball photography by bob kusel The Misericordia Women’s Board “Heart of Mercy Ball” took place last month at the Fairmont Hotel, Chicago. More than 600 people attended the gala, with nearly $500,000 raised for Misericordia. A home on Chicago’s North Side, Misericordia supports more than 600 children and adults with developmental disabilities. Gregg and Sue Hartemayer received the Heart of Mercy Award, and guests enjoyed a cocktail reception and silent auction followed by dinner. ■

FRANK & SUE STONE

JOHN PAUL GRAZIANO & JENNY FRAIN

Correction: In the Nov. 24-25 issue, photos of the Pritzker Military Library Gala had an incorrect caption and should have read “Col (IL) James N. Pritzker (Retired).”

MARY ALICE & DAN HOULIHAN

PATRICK & BENETTA KELLY

LOIS & DR. DENNIS GATES

FATHER JACK CLAIR, LOIS GATES, SISTER ROSEMARY CONNELLY, MARY PAT O’BRIEN, KEVIN CONNELLY

GEANA & KEVIN CONNELLY

CAROL WHITING & MARY BETH SCHWEIHS

12/08–12/09/12

THEATER REVIEW ■ by

lifestyle & arts | 19

THE NORTH SHORE WEEKEND

jill soderberg

Surely there is no more dramatic setting for an interrogation than a small space — in this case, the 50-seat black box theatre where Writers’ Theatre is currently staging John W. Lowell’s Stalinist-era political thriller “The Letters.”

In this 75-minute drama with no intermission, the atmosphere is charged from the outset when a visibly anxious Anna (Kate Fry) has been summoned to the office of The Director of the ministry where she works. The Director (Mark L. Montgomery) arrives with questions for Anna — about her personal life, her work, her colleagues — and, perplexingly, even talks of a promotion for her. Her answers are circumspect, and the interview seems to be going fine, though it’s a tense back-and-forth.

Precisely why is not yet clear, but Anna proves herself a nimble verbal adversary.

“You have a parry for my every thrust,” The Director says at a point while the conversation is still pleasant enough, when he’s attempting to appear lighthearted. But his feelings of resentment and inferiority are exposed when The Director reveals that he has risen through the ranks from the cavalry and lacks the education of his subordinates.

And his charming tone acquires an edge as he queries Anna about the ministry project of sanitizing homoerotic letters penned by a leading Soviet composer, about a colleague who has covertly copied the offending letters and hidden them, and about her love affair with the subversive colleague.

As The Director’s insinuations escalate, Anna cries out, “Why am I here?” Which is the very question gripping the audience, who is bursting with curiosity fueled by the abstruse conversation interposed with incendiary comments: The Director’s single-sentence command in response to a phone call when he says only, “Seal the apartment,” or his suggestion to Anna that her colleague might be less appealing when she sees him with no teeth.

To reveal too many details risks diffusing the intensity, but at some point Anna, realizing the life-and-death stakes of the situation, moves from prey to pursuer. With that shift, any pretense of asking questions in pursuit of truth is abandoned, and the focus of the conversation becomes merely survival.

Kate Fry’s Anna beautifully balances the duality of her character, both subservient and steely, and her gradual transition from hunted to hunter is masterful. Mark L. Montgomery gracefully portrays The Director’s veneer of charm, which belies his desperation and malevolence. Director (of the play, not the ministry) Kimberly Senior, well known to Chicago audiences but making her Writers’ Theatre debut, entertains us with edge-ofyour-seat drama set in 1930s Russia, but the play’s themes resonate in 21st century America. Today “The Letters” would be deleted e-mails and missing hard drives, but

the issues of state security, truth telling, obfuscation, and shifting loyalties are disturbingly contemporary.

Engagement with the drama is enhanced by proximity. The audience, flanking the set, is practically in the ministry office, where portraits of Stalin and Trotsky, a grand Palladian window, and a floor of parquetry and Oriental carpet combine to establish an aura of intimidating authority. The filing cabinets are almost within reach. And Anna’s discomfiture

Intrigue ignites Stalinist-era thriller ‘The Letters’ is ours. This, because we are so close to the action in the small space in the theatre at the back of the bookstore.

Writers’ Theatre has engaged the awardwinning, internationally renowned Studio Gang Architects, led by Jeanne Gang, to design a new Glencoe home for the company. (Conceptual designs for the new construction are part of an exhibition at the Art Institute of Chicago through February 2013.)

This is a theatre company that has built its

reputation on making intimate connections with its audience, and they are committed to maintaining their trademark intimacy in the new space. That said, “The Letters” offers the limited chance to savor the original backof-the-bookstore experience as well as to be stirred by an evening of compelling theatre.

“The Letters” will run through March 3, 2013 at Books on Vernon, 664 Vernon Ave, Glencoe.

For more information, contact 847-242-6000 or visit www.writerstheatre.org ■

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Day of Sales

Your

MARIANI LANDSCAPE’S HOLIDAY MARKET | 300 ROCKLAND RD., LAKE BLUFF 9AM – 5PM |

What to do on the North Shore in your leisure time

12/08–12/09/12

Located outside of Bloomingdale’s, this new ice skating rink will remain open daily through February, with adjusted hours during the holidays.

MARIANILANDSCAPE.COM

Paddy Homan’s “An Irish Christmas”

Mariani Landscape will donate 10% of the day’s sales to Lake Forest Open Lands Association, a non-profit organization whose mission is to conserve the natural environment through land acquisition, habitat restoration and environmental education. The market runs seven days a week through Dec. 19.

WILMETTE THEATRE | 1122 CENTRAL AVE. WILMETTE | 8PM | TICKETS $18 IN ADVANCE, $20 AT THE DOOR | WILMETTETHEATRE.COM OR 847-251-7424 Irish tenor Paddy Holman will perform an evening of stories and songs in the traditional Celtic style.

The Harmonizers WILMETTE PUBLIC LIBRARY AUDITORIUM | 1242 WILMETTE AVE., WILMETTE | NOON FREE

SATURDAY DECEMBER 8

WILMETTE.LIB.IL.US

FRIDAY DECEMBER 7

The Harmonizers, an independent women’s a cappella chorus in the barbershop tradition, will present a special holiday concert at the Women in Business lunch, sponsored by the Wilmette Chamber of Commerce. The event begins at noon at the Wilmette Public Library in the lower-level Auditorium.

Paddy Homan’s “An Irish Christmas”

Ice Skating

WILMETTE THEATRE | 1122 CENTRAL AVE., WIL-

WESTFIELD OLD ORCHARD MALL | 4905 OLD OR-

METTE | 8 PM | TICKETS $18 IN ADVANCE, $20 AT

CHARD CENTER, SKOKIE | NOON – 9:30PM WEEKEND

THE DOOR | WILMETTETHEATRE.COM OR 847-251-

HOURS VARY | $12 PER PERSON WITH SKATE RENTAL;

7424

$10 IF YOU BRING YOUR OWN SKATES |

Irish tenor Paddy Holman will perform an evening of stories and songs in the traditional Celtic style.

WWW.WESTFIELD.COM 847-673-6800

It’s Christmas, Charlie Brown! (The Musical) ACTORS TRAINING CENTER AT WILMETTE THEATRE | 1122 CENTRAL AVE. WILMETTE | 10 A.M. AND NOON | TICKETS $15 | WILMETTETHEATRE.COM OR 847-2517424 Despairing of the holiday commercialism he encounters around him, Charlie Brown attempt to find the true meaning of Christmas. The animated special has been transformed into a live-action musical by the Actors Training Center.

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12/08–12/09/12

lifestyle & arts | 21

THE NORTH SHORE WEEKEND

AVE. WILMETTE | 4PM | FREE | TRINITYWILMETTE.

SUNDAY DECEMBER 9

COM OR 847-251-7333 Doors open at 3:30 for this retelling of the Christmas story with costumed characters, music, congregational singing, and live animals. Refreshments will be served following the event in the church’s Social Hall.

Beer Tasting GOOD GRAPES | 685 VERNON AVE. GLENCOE |

“It’s A Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play” by Joe Landry

1–5PM | ADMITTANCE $10 | GOODGRAPES.COM OR 847-242-9800

OIL LAMP THEATRE | 1723 GLENVIEW RD. GLENVIEW | 8 PM | TICKETS $30 | OILLAMPTHEATRE.COM OR 847-834-0738 In this adaptation of the famous movie, the Oil Lamp Theater is transformed into the 1940s radio studio of New York station WBFR. Five actors portray the characters of Bedford Falls. Oil Lamp Theater is a BYOB establishment; glasses are provided and there is no corkage fee.

Hanukkah with Beth Hillel Congregation Bnai Emunah Wilmette WESTFIELD OLD ORCHARD MALL, CHILDREN’S SERPENT AREA | 4905 OLD ORCHARD CENTER, SKOKIE | 5:30PM | FREE Beth Hillel Congregation Bnai Emunah – Wilmette invites the community to help usher in the first night of Hanukkah by lighting the menorah at Westfield’s Old Orchard Shopping Center.

Rabbi Allan Kensky, Cantor Pavel Roytman and Rabbi Michael Cohen will conduct; the BHCBE Academy Children’s Choir will sing holiday songs. Hot cocoa and cookies will be served.

Twelve brews will be available for tasting at Good Grapes, which sells more than 25 small and craft beers.

A Hammered Dulcimer Holiday NORTHFIELD PUBLIC LIBRARY | 1785 ORCHARD LN. NORTHFIELD | NOON | FREE; REGISTRATION REQUIRED | WINNETKALIBRARY.COM OR 847-446-5990 Phil Passen showcases his hammered dulcimer skills in this installment of the library’s “The Pleasure of Your Company” concert series. He will perform traditional and modern melodies and songs celebrating Christmas, Chanukah, Kwanzaa, and the winter solstice. Contact the library for registration details.

“West Lake Forest” Lecture and Book Signing

Everett, a place settled 25 years before the incorporation of Lake Forest, was home to early pioneers and homesteaders living the “American Dream.” Authors Susan L. Kelsey, Arthur H. Miller, and Shirley M. Paddock will sign books and give a lecture with an overview of West Lake Forest’s fascinating history.

The Harmonizers THREE CROWNS PARK RETIREMENT HOME | 2323 MCDANIEL AVE. EVANSTON | 3PM | FREE The Harmonizers, an independent women’s a cappella chorus in the barbershop tradition, will present a special holiday concert at Three Crowns Park Retirement Home.

A Special Memory with Santa NORTHBROOK COURT SHOPPING CENTER | 2171 NORTHBROOK COURT, NORTHBROOK | 11AM–NOON | NORTHBROOKCOURT.COM OR 847-498-8161 Santa will travel from the North Pole to the North Shore for a visit at Northbrook Court. Children with special needs have the opportunity to visit with Santa before the line opens to the general public.

ELAWA FARM | 1401 MIDDLEFORK DRIVE, LAKE FOREST | 2PM | FREE – BOOKS AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE AT THE EVENT | 847-234-5253 OR LFLBHISTORY.ORG

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Alexakis champions innovation in cuisine ■ by

Louie Alexakis

katie rose mceneely

Louie Alexakis is owner and menu developer of Avli Estiatorio.

Did you cook growing up?

I didn’t start cooking until I was in college.

It was at get-together with a bunch of high school friends, and it was my turn to cook for 15 people. I had no idea what to do, so I called my family and they walked me through.

What made you decide to become a professional chef?

My training was more in the practice of owning numerous restaurants. What I found was I enjoyed the fact that Greek food was popular in Chicago, but we weren’t moving forward.

It’s important to be creative with a cuisine.

Best advice?

The best thing someone can do is to explore foods they’re not really comfortable with. It may lead to doing something very differently.

Favorite dish on the menu?

My favorite is fried zucchini chips. It’s a vegetable made crispy and flavorful. I also like the Avli flatbread—it’s a culmination of all the classic Greek flavors.

Favorite food to make?

Using a rotisserie and cooking an entire lamb for Easter. It’s a great time. Something very much like out of “My Big Fat Greek Wedding.”

What do you like to eat at home?

At home, when I do cook, it’s mostly to please my kids. What I enjoy making most is my kids’ favorites—omelets or stir-fry dishes.

Favorite tool?

12/08–12/09/12

Probably an immersion blender.

Favorite cookbook?

“Meze,” by my consulting chef Diane Kochilas, which is amazingly still in print, and “The Family Meal: Home Cooking with Ferran Adria.” This book is life changing.

Funniest kitchen incident?

In my first Greek restaurant in 1995, we did not expect to be as busy as we were. We cooked everything to order and we had 150 people ordering, and our kitchen exhaust stopped working. We literally soaked tablecloths in ice water and draped them over our necks so we could work. It was brutal, but we couldn’t stop laughing.

Avli Estiatorio is located at 566 Chestnut in Winnetka. For more information or reservations, visit avli.us or call 847-446-9300. ■

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THE NORTH SHORE WEEKEND

SO

LD

12/08-12/09/12

NORTHSHORE DERMATOLOGY CENTER, S.C. Allumera Photofacial Ultherapy - Lunchtime Face Lift Coolsculpting by Zeltiq Cutera Pearl Laser Resurfacing and Rejuvenation Laser Hair Removal Botox速 & Dysport Fillers TM

(Restylane , Perlane, Juvederm, Sculptra) TM

Facial Chemical Peels Microdermabrasion New Laser for Stretch Marks Laser Scalp Hair Enhancement for Men and Women

Leg Spider Vein Treatment Sun & Age Spots Skin Surgery - Moles & Skin Cancer General Dermatology for All Ages LAKE FOREST 800 N. Westmoreland Rd. Suite 100C 847.234.1177

WILMETTE 3612 W. Lake Ave. 2nd Floor 847.853.7900

TINA C. VENETOS, M.D. BOARD CERTIFIED DERMATOLOGIST On Staff at Evanston, Glenbrook, and Lake Forest Hospitals

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lifestyle & arts

THE NORTH SHORE WEEKEND

12/08–12/09/12

Key for the Cure photography by nan stein

NADINE WOLDENBERG, GLORIA CATANESE & SUSAN GINSBERG

LUCY & CECILY CASEY

ABBE SPARKS, MAYOR NANCY ROTERING & BARBARA PAGET

STACY AUSLANDER, JAMIE SIEGEL & JENNIFER EVAN

MARK NEAMAN, KAREN BRAUN & JESSE PETERSON HALL

Members and friends of The Auxiliary of NorthShore University HealthSystem at Highland Park Hospital shopped for a cause at Key to the Cure, a charity shopping weekend dedicated to raising funds and awareness for women’s cancers. . More than 300 guests, a silent auction and raffle helped the organization raise more than $37,000 for Kellogg Cancer Center at NorthShore Highland Park Hospital. In addition to the funds raised at the kick-off event, NorthShore Kellogg Cancer Center will also receive a percentage of sales made throughout the charity shopping weekend. ■

CORY TABACHOW, BRUCE BROCKSTEIN, CAROL ROSENBERG LEON DRAGON & MATT ADESS,

LEANITA RAGLAN-BROOKS, & MARLA BAGAN

MATT ADESS, CAROLYN SINGER & LEON DRAGON

12/08-12/09/12

THE NORTH SHORE WEEKEND

Lake Forest Frame & Design Studio Open Tuesday–Friday 10 a.m.–5 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m.–2 p.m., or by appointment 204 East Westminster, Lake Forest | 847.234.0755 | framedesigns@ameritech.net

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26 | real estate

putting one’s house in order What to know when hiring a North Shore contractor ■ by

joanna brown

On a scale of personal fears, home remodeling falls somewhere between monsters under the bed and air travel with a python snake.

Nevertheless, local homeowners continue to tackle significant projects.

In fact, the Des Plaines-based National Association of the Remodeling Industry recently reported that third quarter business was up more than 2 percent over the previous quarter. A similar report from the Joint Center for Housing Studies of Harvard University suggests that the improving housing market and record low interest rates will keep contractors busy well into 2013.

Success in these projects on the North Shore, local experts agree, comes from finding the right contractor for the customer and their project.

“Some customers need a lot of hand holding, and others need none. Some like to look at a lot of sample, others can pick from three,” said John Tsarpalas, who retired after more

than 30 years as a Wilmette-based general contractor. “You need to know yourself as a customer and discuss your needs with the contractor you’re interviewing. Tell them what you need, and ask if they can work with it.”

The best way to find a contractor, he continued, is through friends and neighbors who have done similar projects.

“Or, if you like your electrician and need a carpenter, ask the electrician who he likes.

Good contractors know other good contractors because they’ve worked together. Plus, an electrician doesn’t want to get his work held up by a carpenter who’s not doing his job; it’s in his best interest to recommend someone good.”

But comparing two or three recommendations from trusted sources can still be a challenge. Margaret Spaan, co-founder of Northfield-based Restore North Shore and a realtor, recommended calling references and examining each contractor’s portfolio.

Tsarpalas agreed. When talking to references, he said, ask how many samples the

robert leighton/the new yorker collection/www.cartoonbank.com

contractor brought to the customer, if the contractor called to explain why he wouldn’t be working that day, and how frequently the supervisor was on site.

Spaan recommended asking references if it was a pleasant experience to have the contractor in their home every day.

“Quite honestly, part of it is chemistry – either you trust the crew or you don’t, for no rhyme or reason,” she said. “There’s an emotional element to having people working in your home that takes business sense completely out of the equation.”

As well, ask how closely the contractor stayed to the proposed budget.

“How much over budget did they go? What surprises should you anticipate? Especially in the older homes in our area, there are always surprises, and that’s where the stress comes from,” she said.

But cost is a big factor in any construction project — no matter how minor or quick the job. A close examination of each bid will save homeowners some of the strife.

“Each contractor bids differently, and breaking bids down to figure out exactly what’s included in each one is difficult,” Spaan said. “It’s easy to get out of budget because you didn’t know your cabinets were going to cost you more, but in the end you can be left holding a bag that’s bigger than your pocketbook.”

Tsarpalas added that the way a contractor requests payment speaks volumes about his business.

“I’m not comfortable with contractors who ask for 50 percent down because they need materials and the like. If they don’t have credit to go out and get what they need, I don’t want to do business with them,” Tsarpalas said.

Once the construction team and terms of payment are in place, construction permits complete the puzzle.

Cathy Czerniak, director of Community Development for the City of Lake Forest, said that most communities post information online to help homeowners, architects and contractors determine what permits they’ll need.

For large projects, Czerniak likes to have pre-application meetings with the homeowner and contractors so that everyone understands how best keep a project moving forward under variable circumstances.

“It helps everyone to understand the timing of the project and everything that needs to come in with the permit application,” she said. “Every city has a standard turn-around time for completed application; in Lake Forest, it’s 15 working days for a complete application, but if the application is missing something the clock stops.

I’m not comfortable with contractors who ask for 50 percent down because they need materials and the like. If they don’t have credit to go out and get what they need, I don’t want to do business with them.”

— John Tsarpalas “If we get hit with a lot of applications in the spring, the pre-application meeting helps us all to manage a project appropriately because we all understand what’s going on.”

And as the project progresses, she recommended keeping in touch with the building department so that inspections can be done at the appropriate time – before the drywall has been hung and obscures the electrician’s work.

Worse still, she said, is when the inspection is forgotten until it’s time to sell the house.

“When you go to sell the house seven or 10 years later and we find that a permit is still open, it causes delays in the sale,” Czerniak said. ■

12/08-12/09/12

THE NORTH SHORE WEEKEND

real estate | 27

HOUSES OF THE WEEK

900 MAPLEWOOD ROAD, LAKE FOREST, IL 60045

$2,750,000 EXCLUSIVELY PRESENTED BY: MEGAN JORDAN & CHRISTINE ASHMORRE 847.295.0700

Exquisite estate surrounded by 1.88 acres of professionally landscaped ravine property. Gorgeous gourmet kitchen with new granite counters, Viking stove, Sub-Zero fridge, and new hardwood floors. New breakfast bar opens to seperate breakfast area. New brazilian cherry hardwood floors throughout the second floor and in the study. Paneled living room with secret speakeasy includes leaded glass windows! A 10!. Presented by Megan Jordan & Christine Ashmorre @PROPERTIES

899 ROSEMARY ROAD LAKE FOREST, ILLINOIS 60045

$2,395,000 EXCLUSIVELY PRESENTED BY: DEDE BANKS 847.542.0700

Serenity and enchantment await in this hidden jewel of a property. A private drive leads to the historic home on 1+acre. Details include the newer slate roof, arched doorways, curved walls, gracious formal rooms and an inviting rustic family room. The arrival court and coach house were designed by Thomas Rajkovich in 2001, and Craig Bergmann’s exquisite landscape plan completes the picture. A captivating setting! KOENIG & STREY REAL LIVING

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real estate

THE NORTH SHORE WEEKEND

12/08-12/09/12

LAKE BLUFF 1.

Sunday 1-4

$825,000 Prudential Rubloff - Rina Du Toit

55 GREENWICH CT. 847-814-8648

LAKE FOREST 2.

Sunday 2-4 3.

Sunday 1-3

1

$365,000 Prudential Rubloff - Kiki Clark $1,089,000 Prudential Rubloff - Daria Andrews

836 EVERETT RD. 847-804-0969 366 SCOTT ST. 847-477-3794

BANNOCKBURN 4.

Sunday 1-3

$1,049,475 Koenig& Strey - Eileen Campbell

2115 STRILING RD. 847-441-6300

NORTHBROOK 5.

Sunday 1-4

3

$449,000 @properties - Greg Fisher

118 WELLINGTON 847-881-0200

WINNETKA 6.

Sunday 12-2

$2,199,000 @properties - Voris/Childs

718 HIBBARD 847-881-0200

KENILWORTH 7.

Sunday 12-2

$729,000 @properties - Colleen McGinnis

539 BRIER 847-881-0200

NORTHFIELD 8.

Sunday 12-2

2

$525,000 Koenig& Strey - Jim Davis

1985 VALLEY VIEW 847-441-6300

WILMETTE 9.

Sunday 1-3 10.

Sunday 1-3

$259,000 Prudential Rubloff - Marguerite Dooley $549,000 @properties - Laura Fitzpatrick

1500 SHERIDAN RD. 1G 847-881-8000 2515 LAKE 847-881-0200

EVANSTON

11. $799,000 Sunday 12-2 @properties - Amy Knepper 12. $365,000 Sunday 1-3 Koenig& Strey - AG Krone (not shown on map)

4

824 ROSALYN TERR. 847-763-0200 1519 MONROE 847-441-6300

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10 11

Please email your open house information, include the info listed above, 1 week prior to: openhouse@northshoreweekend.com

12/08-12/09/12

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THE NORTH SHORE WEEKEND

featured home: 775 Sumac Lane, winnetka, illinois Exclusivley Represented By:

Geri Emalfarb 847.602.6771 geri@atproperties.com

775sumac.info

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THE NORTH SHORE WEEKEND

The best

really did get better!

Thank You to Our Agents #1 Market Share in The New Trier Communities*

568 Lincoln Avenue Winnetka, IL 60093

ColdwellBankerOnline.com/winnetka * November 1, 2011 - November 1, 2012 - all data based on volume + units sold in New Trier Communities information from MRED.

12/08-12/09/12

12/08-12/09/12

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THE NORTH SHORE WEEKEND

Luxury Lives Here ColdwellBankerOnline.com

(847) 446-4000

Winnetka $9,400,000 Kenilworth $8,950,000 Winnetka $6,499,000 Northbrook $4,954,000 Blanche Romey / Maureen Mohling Barbara Mawicke (847) 917-7345 Eve Bremen (847) 373-6091 Lori Stiff (847) 784-7325 (847) 209-6106 / (847) 363-3018 326Essex.com 36Woodley.info 34Bridlewood.info 300Birch.com

Winnetka $3,995,000 Winnetka $3,499,000 Winnetka $3,495,000 Kenilworth $3,250,000 Barbara Mawicke (847) 917-7345 Jann Tyler (847) 373-0505 Ann George (847) 989-8012 Barbara Mawicke (847) 917-7345 920Hill.com 945PrivateRd.info 335Woodley.info 211Leicester.com

Kenilworth $3,195,000 Barbara Mawicke (847) 917-7345 322Kenilworth.com

Winnetka $2,999,500 Winnetka $2,795,000 Kenilworth $2,795,000 Eve Bremen/Janet Schiff Kathy Almond/Barbara Mawicke Barbara Mawicke (847) 917-7345 (847) 373-6091 / (847) 347-1118 (847) 542-9599 / (847) 917-7345 154Kenilworth.com 260WhiteOak.info 999Hill.com

Northbrook $2,793,000 Wilmette $2,395,000 Kenilworth $2,279,000 Kenilworth $2,199,000 Lori Stiff (847) 784-7325 The SFC Team (847) 652-2312 Barbara Mawicke (847) 917-7345 Barbara Mawicke (847) 917-7345 38Bridlewood.info 939Romona.info 304Cumnor.com 257Woodstock.com

Knowledge Is The Difference

Wilmette $2,195,000 Anne Malone (847) 912-4806 1121Chestnut.info

Bringing out your home’s exceptional qualities and skillfully marketing them to the widest audience of qualified luxury home buyers – that’s the winning combination of experience, expertise and resources that Coldwell Banker Previews International® Property Specialists employ to consistently deliver the exceptional results you desire. Uniquely qualified to represent your interests, they’ve mastered the fine art of Handling Exceptional Properties.

Winnetka Office

|

(847) 446-4000

©2012 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker® is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity.

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568 Lincoln Avenue

Each Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Office is Operated by Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate LLC.

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THE NORTH SHORE WEEKEND

718MOUNTAIN.INFO

LAKE BLUFF 5bed/7.1ba $5,200,000 O’Neill/Scully 847.295.0700

410WAUKEGANROAD.INFO

1540HAWTHORNE.INFO

LAKE FOREST 5bed/5.2ba $2,150,000 Christine Ashmore 847.295.0700

HIGHLAND PARK 6bed/4.1ba $1,395,000 Debbie Scully 847.432.0700

1091BEINLICHCT.INFO

GLENCOE 5bed/4.1ba $1,375,000 Susan Maman 847.881.0200

12/08-12/09/12

610THORNWOOD.INFO

NORTHFIELD 5bed/4.1ba $1,350,000 Baylor/Shields 847.881.0200

LUXURY LISTINGS atproperties.com 840SHERIDANROAD.INFO

1173TOWERROAD.INFO

486GREENLEAF.INFO

GLENCOE 5bed/4.1ba $2,450,000 Baylor/Shields 847.881.0200

GLENCOE 6bed/6.2ba $2,395,000 Katie Traines 847.881.0200

125EVERGREENLANE.INFO

WINNETKA 6bed/5.2ba $2,375,000 Andy Herrmann 847.763.0200

718HIBBARD.INFO

1831SALISBURY.INFO

16CANTERBURYCT.INFO

WINNETKA 5bed/4.1ba $3,500,000 Leslie Maguire 847.881.0200

775SUMAC.INFO

WILMETTE 6bed/6.1ba $2,350,000 Burton/Grant 847.881.0200

190MAPLEHILL.INFO

1066CAHILL.INFO

SUN 12-2

WINNETKA 7bed/6.1ba $2,199,000 Voris/Childs 847.881.0200

1242GREGORY.INFO

WILMETTE 4bed/4.1ba $1,575,000 Glenn Gutnayer 847.881.0200

LAKE FOREST 5bed/5.2ba $1,649,000 Andra O’Neill 847.295.0700

GLENCOE 6bed/4.2ba $1,599,000 Elise Rinaldi 847.881.0200

310CENTRAL.INFO

WILMETTE 6bed/3.2ba $1,575,000 Lori Neuschel 847.881.0200

WINNETKA 6bed/7.2ba $3,099,000 Geri Emalfarb 847.432.0700

218IVY.INFO

2587ROSLYN.INFO

429CHESTNUT.INFO

HIGHLAND PARK 4bed/5.2ba $1,450,000 Ted Pickus 847.432.0700

HIGHLAND PARK 4bed/3.2ba $1,399,000 Debbie Scully 847.432.0700

333 WAUKEGAN #D

272NDEEREPARK.INFO

WINNETKA 5bed/5.1ba $1,399,000 Cheryl Chambers 847.881.0200

147MAPLEAVENUE.INFO

888ELM.INFO

18675WCASEYRD.INFO

1532SHERIDAN.INFO

LIBERTYVILLE 3bed/3ba $1,500,000 Barbara Redszus 847.295.0700

HIGHLAND PARK 5bed/5.1ba $1,500,000 Debbie Scully 847.432.0700

231WOODLAWNAVE.INFO

WINNETKA 5bed/4.1ba $1,395,000 Gutnayer/McGuire 847.881.0200

507LOCUST.INFO

COMMERCIAL

GLENVIEW Office $15/SF/Y Levin/Agnew 847.881.0200

®

HIGHLAND PARK 6bed/4.2ba $1,375,000 Wexler/Gault 847.432.0700

WILMETTE 5bed/4.1ba $1,299,000 Jodi Serio 773.432.0200

WILMETTE 4bed/5.1ba $1,099,900 Susan Maman 847.881.0200

atproperties.com

LAKE FOREST 4bed/5ba $1,595,000 Andra O’Neill 847.295.0700

WINNETKA 5bed/5.2ba $2,695,000 Moran/McEneely 847.881.0200

12/08-12/09/12

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THE NORTH SHORE WEEKEND

824ROSLYNTER.INFO SUN 12-2

EVANSTON 3bed/2ba $799,000 Amy Knepper 847.763.0200

2515LAKE.INFO SUN 1-3

800GREENBAY.INFO

WILMETTE 3bed/2.1ba $549,000 Laura Fitzpatrick 847.881.0200

WINNETKA 3bed/2ba $529,000 Monica Childs 847.881.0200

NEW

NEW

610 OAK | WINNETKA

115 MEADOW | WINNETKA

6BED/6.1BA $3,175,000

6BED/6.3BA $5,375,000

• 199 SHERIDAN | WINNETKA

• 171 FRANKLIN | GLENCOE

539BRIERST.INFO

1618SHERIDANROADF.INFO

33

new construction for $6,975,000 6bed/6.1ba $3,595,000 • 514 ABBOTSFORD | KENILWORTH 6bed/6.2ba, lakefront • 120 MEADOW | WINNETKA 6bed/6.2ba $3,375,000 7bed/8.2ba $6,749,000 • 1561 ASBURY | WINNETKA • 561 CIRCLE | LAKE FOREST 6bed/6.2ba $2,975,000 NEW 7bed/7.3ba $4,275,000 • 120 HARBOR | GLENCOE • 120 MARY | GLENCOE 5bed/5.1ba $2,975,000 NEW 6bed/6.2ba $3,975,000 • 1020 BLUFF | GLENCOE • 155 HARBOR | GLENCOE 6bed/5.1ba $2,575,000 NEW 6bed/6.3ba $3,875,000 • 561 GLENDALE | WINNETKA 6bed/5.1ba $1,699,000 WWW.HERITAGELUXURY.COM

FEATURED LISTINGS atproperties.com 1866BALSAMROAD.INFO

2091TRENTON.INFO

376WOODLAWN.INFO

SUN 12-2

HIGHLAND PARK 4bed/2.1ba $899,000 Debra Weinberg 312.254.0200

GLENCOE 4bed/3.1ba $875,000 Leslie Maguire 847.881.0200

110NEWPORTCT.INFO

295ASPEN.INFO

KENILWORTH 4bed/3.1ba $729,000 Colleen McGinnis 847.881.0200

3MARTHALANE.INFO

WILMETTE 2bed/2ba $695,000 Carole Rosenberg 847.881.0200

118WELLINGTON.INFO

SUN 1-4

LAKE FOREST 2bed/2.1ba $599,000 Ted Pickus 847.432.0700

337WAGNER.INFO

NORTHFIELD 3bed/1.1ba $425,000 Natasha Miller 847.881.0200

1121ELMWOOD.INFO

EVANSTON 3bed/2ba $385,000 The Thomas Team 847.763.0200

LIBERTYVILLE 5bed/4.1ba $989,000 Julie Pawl 847.295.0700

HIGHLAND PARK 5bed/3ba $599,000 Ted Pickus 847.432.0700

1503OAK512.INFO

EVANSTON 3bed/2ba $399,000 The Thomas Team 847.763.0200

587MELODY.INFO

HIGHLAND PARK 3bed/1.1ba $399,000 Amy Dowell 847.432.0700

1640MAPLE1101.INFO

EVANSTON 2bed/2ba $374,500 Cummins/McDonald 847.881.0200

1230NWESTERNAVE312.INFO

LAKE FOREST 2bed/2ba $349,000 Megan Jordan 847.295.0700

1100PINEJ.INFO

811HINMANAVE3.INFO

NORTHBROOK 2bed/2.1ba $449,000 Greg Fisher 847.432.0700

112WOODLAND.INFO

EVANSTON 3bed/2ba $395,000 Carolyn Castellini 847.763.0200

41249SURAYA.INFO

ANTIOCH 4bed/3ba $325,000 Sheila Montet 847.432.0700

2521HYBERNIADR.INFO

GLENVIEW 3bed/2.1ba $319,000 Benson/Cunningham 847.881.0200

WINNETKA 4bed/4.1ba $950,000 Sarah Lyons 847.881.0200

1700SECOND507.INFO

1501OAKAVE105.INFO

HIGHLAND PARK 3bed/2ba $299,900 EVANSTON 2bed/2ba $189,000 Pickus/Abreu 847.432.0700 Thomas Walsh 847.763.0200

605DEERPATH.INFO

LINDENHURST 3bed/1ba $130,000 Montet/Wilkowski 847.432.0700

EVANSTON 3bed/2.1ba $589,000 The Thomas Team 847.763.0200

1205PINTOLN.INFO

HIGHLAND PARK 2bed/2.1ba $899,000 Deanne Nissen 847.881.0200

atproperties.com

GRAYSLAKE 2bed/2ba $125,000 Julie Pawl 847.295.0700

600NAPLES508.INFO

GLENVIEW 2bed/2ba $105,000 Brian Parker 847.763.0200

34 | BUSINESS AUTO CARE BUSINESS NEVER TIRE-SOME FOR MOAKS ■ by

bill mclean

When you’re the infant son of an auto care center owner, playpens are so amateur.

Brian Moak hung out for hours in stacks of tires. While his peers in baby enclosures at homes shook rattles and wondered when they would get to enjoy freedom, Moak scaled and explored radials in front of his father’s employees and customers.

“I grew up in the business … grew up in tires,” Moak said.

Moak is 30, all grown up now, and he bought three Duxler Complete Auto Care shops from his father Glenn in 2009. They’re located in Evanston, Northbrook and Skokie.

Glenn, 54, owns the Duxler in Wilmette.

“My dad,” Brian said, “is larger than life, the greatest adviser I know.”

A 21-year-old Brian, after graduating from Indiana University with a degree in business management, was put in charge of running the Skokie Duxler.

“I thought I knew everything at that age,” Brian recalled. “Who doesn’t think that at that age?”

Brian struggled as a rookie owner. He visited his parents’ home in Deerfield one Sunday afternoon, several months after Glenn allowed Brian to steer matters in Skokie.

Dad Moak made an observation in the family room that day.

“He told me, ‘You look miserable,’ ” Brian

said. “I was. I was failing. I then said to him, ‘I made a terrible mistake, thinking I could do this job well.’ ” Glenn listened and made a deal with Brian: “Go to work tomorrow and call me if any problem comes up. I don’t care if you call me 100 times.”

Brian didn’t dial that many times. But he grew more comfortable in the business and the shop-related calls to dad ceased after six months.

“Now,” Brian said, “most of our conversations are about my 2-year-old son (Noah, current tire enthusiast).”

Among the four Duxlers owned by the Moaks, only the Wilmette shop on Green Bay Road could pass the Mayberry test. Energetic, friendly employees not named Gomer Pyle actually pump gas and wash car windows for customers.

“Part of what separates us from other auto care places is our workers’ warmth,” Brian said, adding every Duxler employee is a salaried employee. “They’re not paid hourly and they don’t work on commission; they’re true professionals.”

And they’re not just concerned about customer service.

Brian Moak believes “customer service” is too vague, too cliché.

“We look at it as customer care, customer education,” said Brian, who was raised in Buffalo Grove and lives in Highland Park.

MAIN STREET Baha’i House of Worship impressive from all angles

■ by

bob gariano

Because the prevailing winds in the Chicago area are from the west, aircraft landing at O’Hare Airport most often line up to the east to make their final approach to the field.

Even on flights from the West Coast, the aircraft will lumber past the city and out over Lake Michigan before turning around to form a linear constellation of arriving aircraft. During this maneuver, a passenger in a window seat on the left side of the aircraft can look south along the lake shore to see Gold Coast high rises and the skyscrapers in the Loop.

Closer in, an alert passenger can observe a substantial and ornate temple tucked in among the homes on the North Shore. It is an

ethereal structure that almost seems to be an apparition because of its other-worldly architecture and shimmering white color. It is the Baha’i House of Worship at 100 Linden Ave. in Wilmette — and it is even more impressive when viewed from ground level.

The temple is one of eight continental temples that have been built around the world as places of worship for this global religion.

Construction was begun in 1921 and was completed in 1953. It remains today the largest and oldest Baha’i temple in existence.

Designed by Louis Bourgeois, the building includes architectural elements from a number of the world’s other religions. Clad in white Portland cement concrete with both clear and white quartz panels, the temple’s scale and structural balance is sublime. The

Brian Moak and Glenn Moak are working hard at the Duxler Complete Auto Care shops on the North Shore.

photography by jim prisching

“We stress educating our customers before doing any work on their cars. When a customer is educated, the customer feels empowered and a part of the process.

“We even hold clinics on auto care for our customers.”

On a recent busy Friday morning at Duxler’s Wilmette location, three customers waiting for their cars to be serviced sat

and read in the reception area. About 10 employees worked briskly around the gaspump islands.

Another customer, after making eye contact with Glenn Moak, looked relieved as she exited the reception. She had been educated.

“I feel much better,” she said.

“That’s what we’re here for,” Glenn Moak said. ■

building includes an auditorium that seats 1,200 people. The gathering area has a ceiling that is 138 feet high and the building is topped by a dome 90 feet in diameter.

The number nine has important symbolic meaning in the Baha’i faith. The Wilmette temple has nine entry alcoves, and each is adorned with a sacred verse engraved into the portico of that entrance. The most impressive design elements might be the stone carvings on the nine towers on the outside of the structure. These complex and abstract designs include symbols from the great religions of the world including the cross, the Star of David, and the star and crescent. A careful look also reveals several representations of the swastika, not as a symbol of the 20th century political movement but as the bent armed cross that for thousands of years has been a symbol of ancient religions like Buddhism and Hinduism. Like many Abrahamic religions, the Baha’i faith avoids iconic imagery and the architecture and carvings are based on rich but abstract geometric symbols and constructions. There are no images of people or places decorating the temple.

The Baha’i faith is inclusive and people of all religions are welcome to visit the temple where devotional services are held three times each day. The services involve readings, prayers, and meditations. No instrumental music or sermons are included in the services.

Bahai scriptures stipulate that the temples will not contain altars or pulpits. In the Wilmette temple, there is a visitors’ center under the main auditorium which includes a library, bookstore, audio video room. The temple is part of a global network of Baha’i temples.

More than five million people around the world are part of the Baha’i religion.

The religion originated in Iran in 1844 and remains today as the largest non-Muslim religious minority in that country, with 300,000 Iranians attending the Baha’i services. The faith is a monotheistic religion that emphasizes charity, service to the community, and an acceptance of all people. Baha’i writings have been translated into more than 800 languages. The philanthropy of congregations includes support of approximately 600 social and economic programs including consultative work with UNICEF and other international charities.

The temples, mosques, and churches of North Shore communities stand as reminders of America’s piety and religious freedom.

The physical structures of these religions, like Baha’i temple’s beautiful architecture, are also a symbolic reminder of the charity and human stewardship that is integral to these religious beliefs. ■ Main Street columnist Bob Gariano is at bob@ northshoreweekend.com.

sports | 35

LETHAL WEAPONS Loaded Lake Forest features three stellar all-arounders

Lake Forest’s Katherine McKeon moves through her uneven bars routine in last week’s meet against Libertyville.

photography by j.geil

■ by

bill mclean

Brittany Moccia landed a toe-front dismount off the uneven bars a handful of times last winter.

Don’t expect anywhere near that rate of success from the Lake Forest High School junior gymnast this winter.

“She now hits those dismounts two or three times … every practice,” Scouts coach Robin Straus said.

Moccia ranks third all-time in the allaround in program history, after achieving a 9.413 average for four events at a meet in the 2011-12 season.

The program’s top two all-arounders of alltime — Kylie Carlson (9.5) and Kat McKeon (9.425) —also have some eligibility left.

They’re seniors.

The New York Yankees boasted a Murderers’ Row in 1927.

The Lake Forest Scouts own a Lethal 1-2-3.

They hit, too.

Routine after routine after routine.

“We have maturity and experience,” Straus said after her club topped visiting Libertyville

139.45-126.65 in its season opener Nov. 28.

“I’m excited.”

Current senior Carly Schmidt and sophomore Laura Blake also were members of last year’s fifth-place team (144.5 points) at the state meet.

Schmidt will likely pole-vault for four years at a Division-I college. In her final year as a gymnast, she’ll soar on vault and throw bars routines for the Scouts.

“She’s an outstanding leader,” Straus said.

Moccia, off to an outstanding start in 201213, went 4-for-4 at last month’s Blue-Gold meet and followed that up with a first-place 37.45 in the all-around against Libertyville.

“Everything felt good,” said Moccia. “I had lots and lots of adrenaline. I was worried I had too much, especially on my first tumbling pass (a double full on floor); I thought I’d overdo it.”

Moccia did something else: She won the event with a 9.5, just head of runner-up McKeon (9.4).

“This is such a fun time in the school year for us,” said McKeon, who dances and tumbles on floor to “Jai Ho,” a song from the

movie “Slumdog Millionaire.”

LF essentially relied on five varsity gymnasts last year.

It will count on five again this winter.

“We’re still small but mighty,” McKeon said, referring to the squad’s 2011-12 motto.

Carlson sustained a shin stress fracture late last season. But she still managed to finish third on floor and fifth on bars at state.

“Kylie,” Straus said, “is still dinged up.”

It would have been prudent for Carlson to skip last week’s season opener. Straus considered resting her.

Carlson insisted on competing.

“She’s stubborn, but in a good way,” said Straus. “Kylie wanted to perform and help the team.”

Carlson placed third in the all-around (34.15) and third on the balance beam (8.85).

McKeon was second in the all-around (37.3).

“It’s nice having three 37-point all-arounders like we have,” Straus said, adding the three are serving as tri-captains. “They push each other, work hard.”

Scouts JV sophomore Tabby Jeffers filled in

for Blake (flu) in the dual with Libertyville.

Moccia (vault, 9.65; bars, 9.2) and McKeon (beam, 9.5) executed the other first-place

She’s stubborn, but in a good way. Kylie wanted to perform and help the team.”

— Robin Straus LF Coach efforts at the season-opening dual.

At Saturday’s 19-team Rolling Meadows invite, Lake Forest finished fourth (67.35) behind Carlson’s first-place 9.4 on beam and McKeon’s runner-up 9.2 on bars. Moccia took fourth on floor with a 9.4, and Schmidt contributed an 8.35 (seventh place) on bars.

Blake scored a 7.35 on beam, while Jeffers competed on floor (7.45) using upgraded tumbling passes; sophomore Diana Mzyk and freshman Anika Boyd each scored an 8.1 on vault. ■

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SPORTS | 37

THE NORTH SHORE WEEKEND

Reversal of fortune?

Good turnout numbers at freshman level lift Highland Park’s hopes for future

show more of less

Highland Park’s John Ciancio (left) battles Deerfield’s Brian Spinello during 126-pound action on Nov. 30.

photography by j.geil

■ by

kevin reiterman

The numbers game.

Highland Park High School wrestling coach Chris Reilly has been grappling with that problem for some time.

But the “cavalry” — 30 freshman strong — has arrived.

Reilly, who is in his 10th season as head coach, believes the wrestling program at HP can return to its “long, storied tradition.”

“We’re headed in the right direction,” said Reilly.

He’d like to erase one word from his team’s vocabulary: forfeit.

“We’ve never had a surplus of wrestlers (at the varsity level),” said Reilly. “But it’s as bleak as it’s ever been.

“That’s what happens when you have four years of low numbers. And right now, you can see the result of it on the varsity level,” said Reilly, referring to his team’s seven forfeits in Friday night’s “showdown” at Deerfield. “It’s hard not to have it rear its head.”

But things are changing.

“Thirty freshman. That’s the most we’ve had since I’ve been head coach here,” Reilly said.

Having a solid — and stable — coaching staff is starting to pay dividends.

“We were having a revolving door with coaches,” said Reilly. “We had a lot of turnover, which sends mix messages to wrestlers.”

But things have settled in that department.

Reilly has five dedicated instructors in Chris Volpe, Marco Porcelli, Matt Ferrari, Brent Horvey and Mike Nowacki.

The HP head coach also credits the work of

the HP feeder system: Little Giants Wrestling Club, which is headed up by Matt Irvin, and Northwood Junior High, which is coached

by Tony Ohlwein.

“The youth programs are become more popular,” Reilly said. “We’re getting kids who have more exposure to wrestling. More experience.”

All of a sudden, it’s cool again to be a wrestler.

“A lot of kids in our program are acting like Pied Pipers, helping to recruit other kids (in school),” added the Giants coach.

Senior Nate Kessler (113), junior Brandon Garcia-Galvan (138), junior Dom Ciancio (145) and sophomore John Ciancio (126) are the team’s top returners.

Kessler, who finished 32-8 last year and fifth at the Barrington Sectional, is off to nice start: 7 wins, 1 loss.

He’s a returning all-conference performer along with Garcia-Galvan, who is off to slow start (2-2) due to illness. Garcia-Galvin’s highlight last winter was winning a regional crown.

Dom Ciancio has opened the season with seven wins in 10 matches.

“He’s doing some of our best wrestling,” said Reilly.

John Ciancio is just under .500 (4-5). He lost a tough 7-5 to Deerfield’s Brian Spinello.

The varsity lineup also includes senior Guy Preskill (120) and juniors Jared Korn (152) and Jeffrey Karros (160).

Korn, who sat out with an injury last season, went 3-0 in Saturday’s triple dual against Fremd, Lane Tech and Elk Grove. His overall record is 5-3. ■

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SPORTS

THE NORTH SHORE WEEKEND

name: Jack Byrne position: Guard school: Loyola Academy

12/08-12/09/12

SENIOR

JACK BYRNE

He’s got the team thing down.

Jack Byrne has the ability — and the good intention — of checking his ego at the door.

As one of the team captains, the 6-foot-1 guard plays a unique role on the Loyola Academy boys basketball team. He’s one of the vocal leaders — and he does it with vim and vigor.

“My role is to bring leadership,” said the Glencoe resident. “So it’s important for me to be vocal. And I’m comfortable with that.”

“He’s evolving in the role. He’s learning as he goes,” Loyola head coach Tom Livatino said. “He’s got the ear of the team.

Guys listen to him.

“His role as a team leader is just as important as our leading scorer,” the coach added.

Livatino is one of those equal-opportunity coaches. He likes to get a lot of players involved. He likes having an expanded bench.

Byrne is a key member of Loyola’s “bench mob”.

“When I’m in the game, I want to play hard, play smart, keep everybody working and make the open shot,” said Byrne, who comes from a basketball family (his dad, Dan, and older brother, Sam, played at Loyola, while his sister, Mary Kate, plays on the school’s freshman team).

Byrne is not afraid to fire up a shot.

He came off the bench to score 12 points in the team’s easy win over Rauner in game two of the Thanksgiving Tournament.

Livatino is not afraid to insert Byrne into the starting lineup.

After playing limited minutes in the final two games of the Loyola/New Trier Thanksgiving Tournament, Byrne got his shot on Friday. He made his first start of the season and played extended minutes in a 46-37 road win over Hales Franciscan.

And the Ramblers, who improved to 4-1, didn’t miss a

name: Steven Cook position: Guard/Forward school: New Trier

beat. Byrne aided the LA cause by scoring six points, pulling down five rebounds and taking two charges.

“Jack is a good catch and shoot guy,” said Livatino. “If he’s open, he’s got the green light. Shooting is one of his strengths.”

Byrne, who shares the captain duties with senior Austin Morton and junior James Clarke, loves the make-up of this Loyola team. Having guys with big egos is not an issue.

When I’m in the game, I want to play hard, play smart, keep everybody working and make the open shot.”

— Jack Byrne “I don’t think there’s a selfish player on the team,” said Byrne. “That’s one of our biggest strengths.”

And he believes the wins will continue to come for the Ramblers, who finished 7-18 last year.

“I think we’re capable of flipping that record and making a run in the playoffs,” Byrne said.

STEVEN COOK

Here’s Scott Fricke’s take on Steven Cook.

“One night he might only score seven points, but when you walk away from the game you say, ‘Wow, he played great,’ ” the New Trier High School boys basketball coach said.

“The number of points he scores doesn’t tell you everything,” Fricke added.

Cook, a 6-foot-4 senior guard/forward, is one of the special talents on the North Shore.

name: Austin Curren position: Guard school: North Shore Country Day

The Princeton University recruit, who averaged 10 points and five rebounds per game during his junior season, plays with a high basketball IQ and finds it cool to be the ultimate team player.

“I’m always looking to score and stay aggressive,” said Cook.

“But I’m also looking to get everybody involved.

“The most successful teams at New Trier are the ones where there’s no selfishness,” he added. “I’m trying to add a little bit of everything, depending on what we need as a team.”

Cook has plenty of upside on offense. He’ll come up with his share of scoring bursts — especially with his ability to hit the three-ball and convert inside.

“Opposing teams know where he’s at — at all times,” said Fricke. “He’s one of those kind of players.

“We want the ball in his hands,” the NT coach added.

But what sets him apart is his skill set on defense.

“He’s so versatile,” Fricke said.

In the 1-3-1 zone defense, Cook plays out on top. When the Trevians go man-to-man, he can handle either a point guard or a big man.

“I’m used to pressuring guards,” said Cook, who got his growth spurt during his sophomore year. “That’s what I will do in college.”

According to his club coach, Michael Weinstein of Fundamental U, the sky is the limit for Cook when he steps onto the college court.

“The Princeton coach (Mitch Henderson) told me that he’s already defensive ready for college basketball,” said Weinstein.

“And that’s a monstrous compliment. Most kids get to college and don’t know how to defend.”

Cook will take care of the business at hand — his senior season at New Trier — but he’s got high hopes for his future.

“I’m looking to contribute right away (at Princeton),” he said.

“He’s the type of kid that (Princeton) is looking for,” said

12/08-12/09/12

SPORTS | 39

THE NORTH SHORE WEEKEND

photography by j.geil

SPOTLIGHT

name: Sam Downey position: Center school: Lake Forest

Fricke.

Weinstein is convinced that the Tigers will uncover a gem in Cook.

“I’d be surprised if he’s not an all-conference player for them.”

AUSTIN CURREN

Austin Curren shared a couple of his likes after a boys basketball at North Shore Country Day last week.

The NSCD senior guard stood out of bounds at the time, near a basket in the Raiders’ cozy gym.

“I like to do what most high school kids like to do,” the 6-foot-3, 190-pounder said. “Hang out with friends and eat.”

What he doesn’t like to do: sit during basketball games.

But that’s what he had to do during each of the Raiders’ first five games this winter.

A pulled right hamstring — sustained on a basketball court last summer — hasn’t completely healed. Curren aggravated the stubborn injury on a football field three times since then.

He didn’t play a down as a NSCD wideout this past fall.

“I won’t guess,” he said of his return date to the hoops fold.

“It’s been frustrating,” the Wilmette resident added.

Curren averaged 17 points and eight rebounds for the Raiders in 2011-12, after pouring in a career-high 32 points against Mooseheart in a varsity game as a sophomore.

“Austin knows his game, pushes his teammates, and his basketball IQ is pretty high,” NSCD coach Rashid Smith said after his club routed visiting Northtown 66-40 Nov. 27 for its first win of the season.

“Our perimeter defense,” he added, “is a little porous without Austin out there.”

NSCD lost its first four games, all at last month’s Maine West Thanksgiving Tournament.

name: Sam Shrago position: Forward school: Highland Park

I do my best to boost the morale of my teammates during games.”

— Austin Curren The Raiders aren’t just missing Curren’s significant stats.

They’re also battling without two of his intangibles.

“I play hard, and I do my best to boost the morale of my teammates during games,” Curren said. “I’ve always liked the competitiveness of basketball, and I enjoy being a part of a team.”

Two of his inspirations at NSCD have been Smith and former Raiders head football coach Adam Mangana. “(Mangana) was good at motivating me, and I respect Coach Smith, who has coached me since I was 12,” Curren said.

Raiders senior guard/forward Riley Hall respects Curren’s game.

“He’s our go-to, a very good finisher,” Hall said after netting 21 of his game-high 22 points in the first half and finishing with a team-best 13 rebounds in the defeat of Northtown.

“Austin is also a relaxed guy, one of my friends. He’s a good guy.”

SAM DOWNEY

He owns a left hook now, to go with his effective right hook.

Lake Forest High School senior Sam Downey also floors people with an assortment of other moves.

But Downey doesn’t box in rings.

He boxes out on courts and scores points for the Scouts’ boys basketball team.

name: Porter Veach position: Guard school: Lake Forest Academy

“Any team we play in our conference (North Suburban Lake) won’t be able to match up with Sam,” Lake Forest senior guard Ben Simpson said of the 6-foot-9 Downey.

Mundelein, an NSC Lake team, attempted to contain Downey Friday night in the teams’ division opener at LF. Downey dropped 15 points on the Mustangs and came down with eight rebounds in LF’s 69-61 victory.

“Sam has improved tremendously,” Scouts coach Phil LaScala said last month, a couple of days after Downey overwhelmed Urban Prep’s post players with a 26-point effort in a 77-37 rout at the Niles West Thanksgiving Tournament.

Downey weighs 215 pounds.

Last year he was a 190-pounder, and he saw only ounces of playing time in the 2011 portion of the 2011-12 season.

“That was tough, getting to play only a little at the end of games at the beginning of the season,” Downey recalled after Friday night’s game. “But we had very good seniors and they helped me gain some confidence.

“I worked hard in practice.”

Downey’s minutes in games grew last winter as the temperatures outside fell.

By mid-July Yale expressed an interest in Downey, who developed his game as an AAU player for Fundamental U and eventually committed to the Ivy League school.

Among his AAU mates: Mundelein senior Sean O’Brien and 6-8 Glenbrook North senior Andrew McAuliffe.

“It was a great experience and it helped my game, going up against talented players like that,” Downey said.

Against Mundelein Friday night, Downey got creative in the paint — without a brush, without a canvas.

The big man executed an impressive array of moves SPOTLIGHT >> PAGE 41

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THE NORTH SHORE WEEKEND

12/08-12/09/12

BASKETBALL ROUNDUP

HALL PUTS RAIDERS IN THE WIN COLUMN ■ by

bill mclean

All hail Hall.

Riley Hall, that is.

The North Shore Country Day senior guard/forward struck for 21 of the Raiders’ 41 points in the first half of a 66-40 defeat of visiting Northtown Academy Nov. 27.

“We scored down low, which was big,” Hall said after NSCD’s first win of the season.

Hall finished with team highs of 22 points and 13 rebounds in the rout. Classmate Jamie Swimmer popped for 13 points, with nine coming from three-point land in the first half.

“They know the gear it takes to win … against any team,” Raiders coach Rashid Smith said of his boys, who had lost their first four games at last month’s Maine West Thanksgiving Tournament.

Smith’s squad vroomed to a 41-22 halftime advantage against Northtown and led 53-26 after three quarters.

Raiders senior Elias Butler finished with nine points and six boards.

NSCD improved to 2-4 when it downed Chicago Latin School 59-46 Friday night.

NSCD GIRLS

Annie Kroll is off to a terrific start for the Raiders (2-3).

The sophomore guard is averaging 17.6 points and 6.4 rebounds per game.

Kross tallied 16 points in a 38-27 setback to visiting Elgin Academy on Nov. 30. She also scored 16 in a 43-37 loss to Woodlands Academy on Nov. 27.

The team’s leading rebounder is Meghan Nolan, who played at Loyola last year. She averages 10.3 per game.

Junior Rebecca Slotkin is pulling down 6.0 rebounds per outing. She had nine boards against Elgin Academy.

HIGHLAND PARK BOYS

The Giants (2-4, 1-0) applied some shut-down defense and took down Maine East 50-34 on Nov. 30.

The host Blue Demons tallied only three points in the second quarter.

On the offensive end, senior Brandon Krawitz had a big night, scoring a game-high 20 points on 7 of 15 shooting.

Sophomore Luke Norcia finished with 10 points to go along with six assists.

Sam Iden and Jordan Krawitz helped the HP cause with eight points apiece. Sam Shrago led the team in rebounds (seven), while David Sachs had nine assists.

On Nov. 27, Highland Park dropped a 40-35 decision to visiting Evanston. The Wildkits were limited to only five points in the third quarter.

Sachs led the Giants with 10 points. He was 4 for 4 from the foul line. The sophomore guard also came up with five assists.

Brandon Krawitz wound up with nine points.

HIGHLAND PARK GIRLS

Highlighted by Lena Munzer’s 30-point performance, the Giants (3-5, 1-0) claimed a CSL North win over host Maine

North Shore Country Day senior Riley Hall leads his team on a fastbreak during last week’s win over Northtown Academy.

photography by j.geil

West 53-51 on Nov. 29.

The senior standout also recorded 14 rebounds and five assists.

Lizzy Logrande also scored in double figures (10), while Tina Berardi pulled down 10 rebounds.

In other action, HP fell to Palatine 62-50 on Dec. 1 and 60-35 to host Glenbrook South on Nov. 29. Against Palatine, Munzer had 22 points. She tallied 17 at GBS. Logrande had nine points against GBS. LAKE FOREST BOYS

Carter Bass stung the ’Stangs.

The Scouts’ 6-foot-4 senior guard tallied 16 of his gamehigh 23 points in the second half of LF’s 69-61 defeat of Mundelein’s visiting Mustangs in the teams’ NSC Lake opener on Nov. 30.

LF (5-0, 1-0) outrebounded Mundelein 33-22 and withstood the visitors’ 26-point fourth quarter.

Scouts senior center Sam Downey scored 15 points and grabbed eight rebounds, while sophomore forward Evan Boudreaux finished with 10 points and 13 boards.

LF senior guard George Quall contributed nine points, one more than senior backcourt mate Ben Simpson’s total.

LAKE FOREST GIRLS

Annie Keller scored 16 points and Brooke Green added 12 points but it wasn’t enough. The Scouts (2-5, 0-1) dropped a 40-38 decision to Mundelein on Nov. 29.

In other action, Lake Forest played well for a half in its 50-32 setback to Regina Dominican on Nov. 27. Keller led the way with 10 points and 10 rebounds. Green had eight points and five assists.

LF ACADEMY BOYS

The Caxys are in the win column.

After going 0-5 in the Mundelein/Warren Thanksgiving Tournament, LFA topped CICS Longwood 54-38 on Dec. 1

Dejan Brissett had two dunks and paced the Caxys with 17 points. Ryan Clammage also scored in double figures (11 points), while Porter Veach and Daniel Joseph scored nine points each.

LOYOLA BOYS

The Jack Morrissey show continues.

The junior standout made six three-pointers and finished with 24 points in Loyola’s 46-37 victory at Hales Franciscan on Nov. 30. He also pulled down five rebounds.

Senior Jack Byrne helped the LA cause with six points, five rebounds and two steals. He also took two charges.

LA, which improved to 4-1, went on a 19-1 run to erase a 30-23 second-half deficit.

NEW TRIER BOYS

A mixed bag.

The Trevians (5-2) split their weekend action, falling 66-62 to visiting Warren and beating Julian 61-32 in the Notre Dame Shootout.

Stas Banas (14 points), Steven Cook (13) and Reid Berman paced the New Trier offense in the win over Julian.

Banas also was NT’s leading scorer (13 points, three threepointers) against Warren. Cook tallied 12 points (two threes).

In other action, the Trevians took down Maine West 62-34 on Nov. 27. Jordan Thomas led the team with 15 points. Ricky Samuelson had nine points, while Cook had eight.

NEW TRIER GIRLS

The Trevians had very little trouble with Glenbrook North.

Led by Alexa Czyzynski (15 points), Marisa Fear (12 points), Jackie Welch (five assists) and Jennie Boehm (five rebounds), New Trier topped visiting Glenbrook North 58-22 on Nov. 27 However, things didn’t work out so well for NT on Nov. 30.

The Trevians fell to host Maine South 47-42. Meg Neuhaus led New Trier with nine points. Isabella Bosco scored eight points. ■

sports | 41

THE NORTH SHORE WEEKEND

SPOTLIGHT >> FROM 39

underneath.

And he was about as predictable as Chicagoland weather.

A righty hook there, a lefty hook there, a fade-away jumper in the middle of the lane as time expired in the third quarter.

Downey made the fade-away to put the hosts up 44-35.

Made it look easy.

“I’m at the point now where I have a better feel for making post moves, and I’m getting more and more comfortable with the moves,” said Downey. “What also helps is my competitiveness.

“I’ve always been competitive.”

He was active — and instrumental — in the first quarter Friday night, scoring six of the Scouts’ first 13 points.

Mundelein appeared wobbly, as if it needed a standing eight count. But the contest went the full four rounds (quarters).

SAM SHRAGO

Coach Paul Harris is amazed by the kid.

“How can you not be inspired by Sam Shrago?” said the Highland Park High School boys basketball coach.

During the past 12 months, Shrago has head-faked and juke-moved his way through some difficult hurdles in order to play his senior season with the Giants.

“Sam has gone through some tough ups and downs,” Harris said.

He sustained a torn ACL last December in a game at Grant High School. And then, he suffered a torn meniscus in the summer “on a jump shot.” But the 6-foot-3 forward has put his head down and his heart into overcoming the barriers.

“I felt the crack in my knee,” said Shrago, of his meniscus injury. “Just bad luck.”

Shrago is not pain free yet.

I’ve always loved playing basketball and I believe that I’m meant to play.”

— Sam Shrago “I still get sore,” he said. “But I try to forget about it. I try not to dwell on it.”

He’s more than willing to put on jersey No. 23 and play through it.

“I’ve always loved playing basketball and I believe that I’m meant to play,” said Shrago. “These are just obstacles that I have to get past.”

He was in the starting lineup in HP’s season opener — at the St. Viator Tournament — on Nov. 19. And he didn’t exactly tear it up. In a 46-39 loss to Prospect, his stat line was 20 minutes, 0 points and 1 rebound.

“It was tough to get back in the flow of the game,” said Shrago.

Things were different in games two, three and four of the tourney. Shrago came up with a 10-point outing in a 44-42 loss to St. Viator.

And, in a 39-38 win over Conant, Shrago produced “ah, yes” move in the second half, when he took the ball at the top key, drove the lane, deked a defender and scored a layup.

“That,” Shrago said, “felt good.”

Harris is convinced that Shrago’s game will continue to improve as the season moves along.

“He’s long and athletic,” said the HP coach. “He provides us with scoring punch. He’s one of those guys who can be a threat inside and outside.”

The Giants also look for him to rebound.

“He’s got a nose for the ball,” Harris said. “He’s good off the glass.”

Shrago knows his role.

“I’m trying to do all of the little things,” he said. “Do some scoring, get some rebounds and take some charges. All of the things that our coaches stress.

“I’ve never been happier,” he added.

PORTER VEACH

Porter Veach was in Chicago doing what he loves to do — playing basketball, at a fitness center — when he was discovered by Hollywood.

Holly Medley of Hollywood Dreamers, actually.

The former DePaul women’s basketball player is a hoops development coach/trainer for Hollywood Dreamers.

“I happened to be down there, in an open gym workout,” recalled the 6-foot, 165-pound Veach, a senior guard at Lake Forest Academy. “Some college players were also there.

“Holly happened to see me.”

Veach started working with Medley after his sophomore season at New Trier High School. The Winnetka resident transferred to LFA the summer before his junior year, after playing on an undefeated Trevians freshman team and a one-loss sophomore squad.

“I like to focus on three basics,” said Medley. “Intelligence, ability and hunger. Through hunger, Porter is using his intelligence to build his ability.”

Veach is averaging eight points, four assists and one steal for the 1-5 Caxys this winter, after serving LFA’s varsity as an integral role player in 2011-12.

“He plays hard and I know he really loves the game,” said LFA coach Matt Vaughn. “His shooting is much more consistent than it was last year, and his ball-handling is stronger.”

Veach first developed his “handles” in his basement, dribbling a basketball for countless hours.

Only hunger or bedtime probably interrupted the incessant bounce-bounce-bounces.

Is he a righty?

Is he a lefty?

It’s too hard to tell, if you just watch him handle the ball.

“It’s like the ball,” Medley said, “is an extension of his hand when he dribbles. Add his great vision and you have an outstanding guard.”

Veach shoots right-handed.

But he also looks quite comfortable driving for left-handed layups.

“I’m kind of a finesse player, a pass-first guard, and I know the importance of moving well without the ball,” Veach said.

“Holly,” he added, “is so good at breaking the game down, so good at helping me with the mental aspects of the game. I approach the game differently because of sessions with her.”

Medley taught Veach there’s a way to score often without appearing to be a ball hog.

“You try to be a scorer on one possession and then do what you can to get your teammates involved in the next two possessions,” Veach said.

“After those,” he added, “try to become a scorer again.”

Veach is trying to help develop a young LFA crew this winter.

He’s 18.

The average age of the Caxys on varsity is 15.8.

His teammates aren’t calling him “Gramps.”

Yet. “Porter gets along with everyone; he’s pretty mild-mannered,” Vaughn said.

Added Medley: “He’s a fun-loving, outgoing kid, and he’s very welcoming.”

Veach is thinking about completing a post-grad year, perhaps on the East Coast. He then would love nothing more than to play significant minutes at the college level.

Don’t be surprised if he gets discovered a second time. ■ — Bill McLean and Kevin Reiterman

Market Square Holiday Events Saturdays in December ➢ Saturday, December 1 12–3 p.m.

Farmers Market at the Market Square train station

➢ Saturday, December 8, 15, 22 11–2 p.m.

Santa visits Baytree Bank’s “Winter Garden” in the Courtyard 12–3 p.m. Farmers Market at the Market Square Train Station 1–2 p.m.

Carolers in Market Square including the Red Rose Children’s Choir (12/8)

➢ Saturday, December 15 10–2 p.m.

Santa and his Reindeer In Market Square

Sundays in December ➢ Sunday December 9, 16, 23 12–3 p.m.

FREE Horse & carriage rides compliments of the Market Square Merchants (at the fountain)

Photo by Kerri Sherman Photography in Market Square Court yard http://www.bloomandfocus.com

12/08-12/09/12

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The Perfect Weekend

THE NORTH SHORE WEEKEND

12/08-12/09/12

Sonja Fedderman runs The Salon in Lake Forest, while Matt Feddermann is a musician whose band plays across the North Shore.

photography by jim prisching

For Sonja and Matt IT’S A LITTLE BIT COUNTRY, A LITTLE BIT ROCK N’ ROLL IN THE CITY

Then we’d have the great brunch in the lobby. They have beautiful fireplaces and board games to play.”

W

e’d drive up to Grand Geneva in Wisconsin on a Friday evening and let Peri (6) ride her favorite horse Blue. We have a favorite suite up there. It’s close enough to the indoor pool that Peri can run over but not close enough to be loud.

We’d go to the Geneva ChopHouse for dinner.

On Saturday we’d have Peri have a ski lesson while we’d go snow shoeing. Then we’d have the great brunch in the lobby. They have beautiful fireplaces and board games to play.

We’d check out in the afternoon and deliver Peri to one

of her grandparents. Then we’d drive to the Four Seasons in the city. We’d go have dinner at Purple Pig, then we’d go see live music at the House of Blues.

We’d wake up the next morning and have the Four Seasons brunch and sit around for far too long. They have the most beautiful spread. You can have a mimosa and eat for hours.

Then we’d probably wander around Millennium Park or go to the Art Institute. ■ Sonja and Matt Feddermann, as told to David Sweet

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THE NORTH SHORE WEEKEND

Shop this holiday season!

2012

12/08-12/09/12

Visit 125+ unique retail locations Dine at 30+ exceptional restaurants Treat yourself at 40+ of the finest fitness

and salon businesses on the North Shore

Discover dozens of hot holiday finds and more in the Downtown Highland Park Gift Guide at www.downtownhp.com

Downtown Highland Park

downtownhp.com

Downtown HP

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T:8.625�

THE NORTH SHORE WEEKEND | SATURDAY DECEMBER 08 | SUNDAY DECEMBER 09 2012

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