Hinsdale Living, June 2020

By your side.

The Barry Wealth Consulting Group thanks those who are on the front lines taking care of our community, our families and our friends.

We’re living through an unprecedented time in which there seem to be more questions than answers—a time characterized by uncertainty about our safety, our health and the world around us. One thing remains certain, we are here for you.

At a time when we’re all being asked to put greater distance between each other, now is the time we need to come together even more. Working together, we will get through this, just as we have during other difficult periods in our nation’s history.

The Barry Wealth Consulting Group UBS Financial Services Inc. One North Wacker Drive, Suite 2600 Chicago, IL 60606 312-525-4393

laurie.barry@ubs.com

ubs.com/team/barrywealthcg

As

a firm providing wealth management services to clients, UBS Financial Services Inc. offers both investment advisory services and brokerage services. Investment advisory services and brokerage services are separate and distinct, differ in material ways and are governed by different laws and separate arrangements. It is important that clients understand the ways in which we conduct business and that they carefully read the agreements and disclosures that we provide to them about the products or services we offer. For more information, please review the PDF document at ubs.com/workingwithus.

1316 N ASTOR ST

6 Beds | 6.3 Baths • $5,900,000 1316NAstorSt.info

Architecturally significant Potter Palmer mansion in a prestigious Gold Coast locale. Grand room sizes, high ceilings, cool modern lines throughout, & elevator access to all levels. The main level offers voluminous open spaces for living & dining. The kitchen features granite countertops & SS appliances. 2nd level boasts a huge bedroom suite and access to the garage roof deck. The full-floor, 3rdlevel master suite features an exercise room, a huge white marble bath & 2 dressing rooms. 2 additional ensuites & a built-in office space are on the 4th level with skylights. Finished LL, 3-car garage & close to everything!

654 W WEBSTER AVE

5 Beds | 5.1 Baths • $2,350,000 654WWebsterAve.info

Exceptional, completely renovated Lincoln Park home overlooking Oz Park! This sophisticated residence offers a bright and open living & dining room with a gas fireplace and two sets of French doors. A butler’s pantry connects the dining room and kitchen. The superb kitchen features top-of-the-line appliances and an oversized island. An adjacent great room overlooks the garage roof deck. 3 beds + a custom office space are on the 2nd level. The master suite has a private terrace, dual walk-in closets, and a luxe bath. Lower level offers a full kitchen, 2 bedrooms & a private entrance – great for nanny quarters.

1229 W MONTANA ST

5 Beds | 5.1 Baths • $2,750,000 1229WMontanaSt.info

60’ wide lot home flooded with sunlight! The main level offers a fabulous layout with a living & large formal dining room with an adjacent sunroom overlooking the side yard & deck. The large kitchen has granite countertops, top-of-the-line appliances, & a built-in banquette overlooking the great room with 3 walls of windows! 3 spacious bedrooms, including the master, on the 2nd level. The sunny master suite has 2 walk-in closets & a spalike bath. 2 additional bedrooms on the top floor + a terrace. Lower level boasts a mud room, media/rec room, office/exercise room, & a wine cellar!

2668 N GENEVA TERR

7 Beds | 4.1 Baths • $2,295,000 2668NGenevaTer.info

Sensational custom home in coveted Geneva Estates! Located on a cornerlike lot with spectacular outdoor space. Main level features an open living & dining room with a fireplace and built-in buffet– great for entertaining. The highend kitchen has granite countertops, SS appliances & a large island. An adjacent great room overlooks the garage deck. 4 bedrooms, including the master, are on the 2nd level. The master suite features a wall of builtins, a fireplace & a spa bath. PH level has a bedroom, full bath, family room & 2 terraces. Fully finished LL, attached heated 2-car garage and close to shopping & dining!

NO ONE WITH GOOD HAIR WEARS A HAT HAT'S OFF

COME SEE THE LEADING EXPERT IN HAIR RESTORATION TODAY!

William D. Yates M.D., F.A.C.S. Leading Hair & Anti-Aging Surgeon in the Nation

Summer Market is the

This year, we’re experiencing a summer market with fantastic properties, motivated sellers, and excited buyers. If you have any questions about the current state of the market, feel free to reach out so we can help you explore all of your options.

Hinsdale Homes with Gorgeous White Kitchens!

664 E 6th St., Hinsdale | Offered at $1,799,000

European inspired masterpiece with exquisite details, expansive rooms, flexible floor plan and first floor master suite. Located in southeast Hinsdale on an 118 ft wide lot affording privacy and room for a pool if desired. 3 Car Garage.

119 Minneola St., Hinsdale | Offered at $1,224,000 Picture perfect custom-built home with spacious kitchen and family room, volume ceilings, striking finishes and all the ’must haves’. Enjoy relaxing on oversized bluestone front porch. Ideal in town location just a short walk to town.

Founder & Publisher J.W. CONATSER

Associate Publisher GRETCHEN BARNARD

Editor-in-Chief KEMMIE RYAN

Editorial Stylist THERESA DEMARIA

Contributing Editors ELAINE DOREMUS

DUSTIN O’REGAN

SHERRY THOMAS

Contributing Writers MITCH HURST

Production Manager / Graphic Designer LINDA LEWIS

Advertising Coordinator / Graphic Designer AMANDA ALVARADO

Graphic Designer AMEEN QUTTEINEH

Contributing Photographers BRIAN BRIGGS

FRANK ISHMAN

IAN MCLEOD

ROBIN SUBAR

Assistant to the Publisher MINDY KOVCO

Advertising Sales JENNIFER STURGEON

Illustrator ROBERT RISKO

Hinsdale Living Magazine

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

General inquiries: 847-926-0911

Editorial inquiries: 847-651-8558

Editorial email: KEMMIE@JWCMEDIA.COM

On the web: HINSDALELIVINGMAG.COM

Mailing Address: 445 SHERIDAN ROAD, PENTHOUSE HIGHWOOD, ILLINOIS 60040

More Than Just a Dazzling Home!

With the latest “Smart Home” appointments and capability to control door locks, lights, audio-visual, cameras, temperature, irrigation system... It’s way ahead of today’s convenience curve. Six bedrooms, 5.1 baths on four exquisitely finished levels. All set on a less traveled street of Hinsdale, walking distance to train, schools, parks and community pool.

911 Red Fox Lane Oak Brook, IL

An impressive street portrait opens to a fabulous 5600+SF home of many charms and surprises. Designed for the ultimate in multi-generational living opportunities. All award winning Oak Brook Schools and Hinsdale Central High School right in the middle of Oak Brook.

52 // SEASONS OF CHANGE

Marianna and Jimmy Bannos Jr. open up about their lives in Oak B rook, and why putting their family first keeps them grounded and ready to face any challenge life brings their way.

57 // THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE HOME

30

33 Talk Of

EDITOR’S NOTE

Summer is here! Ok, not officially until June 20, but I’m ready to move my home office outdoors. I’m also excited to share our first issue of Summer 2020 with you. My family has been itching to get outside … and eat a meal that isn’t cooked by me.

Speaking of cooking, we have Marianna, Gianna, Olivia, and award-winning chef Jimmy Bannos Jr., who live in Oak Brook, on our cover this month. The family shares how they are adjusting to their “new normal”— as a family and at Jimmy’s restaurant, The Purple Pig in Chicago. Next, we switch from food and family, to an update on the local real estate market. Area professionals share how they’ve adapted to create success for clients, despite restrictions during the Covid-19 pandemic. From safety precautions and virtual showings to utilizing social media and new technology, home buying and selling is alive and well in Hinsdale and its neighboring communities.

In our Talk of the Town section, we share the area’s most intriguing events, including local favorite Walk for Wellness House, this year adapted into a virtual fundraiser. Prepare to celebrate Independence Day in style with some of our favorite fashions in red, white, and blue. Stefanie A. Ali, M.D.— a clinical dermatologist and dermatopathologist, mother of three (soon to be four), and lover of all-things

country music—shares a few of her favorites in country and in town. In Giving Back, 100 Women Making it Happen—Hinsdale’s newest nonprofit—seeks to simplify fundraising and raise $10,000 in just one hour. Make sure to snap a photo of your “new normal” and include the hashtag #HinsdaleAtHome or #HinsdaleHistory to help the Hinsdale Historical Society document tomorrow’s history, today. And don’t forget to tag @hinsdale_living on Instagram so we can see what you’re up to.

In our Publisher’s Profile section this month we have the Dawn McKenna Group. Now with offices in Hinsdale, Winnetka, Lake Forest, Chicago, and Naples, Florida; McKenna reflects on her past success and aspirations for the future in real estate.

Local philanthropist and businesswoman Kimberly Arquilla shares her love of ballroom dance, family, and community in One Last Thing. After moving to the area in 1995 and raising her three children in the community, she became a single empty-nester—until COVID-19 brought her children home to quarantine. Don’t miss a few of Arquilla’s favorite lasts.

I hope you will join me in welcoming the change in seasons. Be sure to follow us on Instagram and let me know what you are looking forward to the most this summer.

Warmest wishes,

Kemmie Ryan Editor in Chief Kemmie@jwcmedia.com

THERE'S NO PLACE LIKE HOME

Talk of the Town

Louis Vuitton Trunk, 1890-1900s

Louis Vuitton monogram canvas trunk, with white quilted interior on inside of the lid. Includes a removable storage shelf. Stamped E.C.E. Salt Lake City on two sides.

Estimate: $2,000 - $3,000

Sold for: $5,888

COUTURE FINDS

Chicago-based fine art auction house, Hindman, served up some of the country’s most exclusive designer pieces during its Spring Couture Fashion and Accessories auction. Despite uncertain circumstances and social distancing protocols, the sale was able to continue—remotely. More than 700 registered bidders participated either through live internet bidding or absentee bidding. Featured designers included Louis Vuitton, Chanel, and Hermès.

Offerings included a Chanel denim shoulder bag with embroidery and appliqué, a Chanel faux pearl and black bead necklace with flowers, a Chanel black velvet skirt, a 19th Century Louis Vuitton steamer trunk, an 1890-1900s Louis Vuitton trunk, and a Hermès brown leather bag—all surpassing their pre-sale estimates.

Hindman has auctions scheduled through the end of June, including its Essential Jewelry sale on June 17 and Summer Fashion and Accessories sale on June 19. Don’t miss your chance to snag a fashionable find just for you!

For more information, visit hindmanauctions.com.

THE BUZZ

Tomorrow’s History

You can become an important part of history—today. The Hinsdale Historical Society, whose mission is to bridge the past, present, and future through documenting and educating, is welcoming submissions of pictures, videos, drawings, journal entries, and phone interviews to document the “new normal.” You can submit your contribution via email or on Instagram and Facebook using the hashtag #HinsdaleAtHome or #HinsdaleHistory. Why not share your favorite quarantine snack or home workspace with future generations?

Firecracker

Summer is here and it’s time for a wardrobe updates. Waterlemon, a unique children’s boutique and indoor play space in downtown La Grange, has you covered. We found the most adorable, high-quality rompers, shorts, shirts, and more in Waterlemon’s collection. This Mayoral Girls Red Ruffle Top Dress is the perfect look for Independence Day. Don’t forget to pick up a curated Birthday Bash Box. For more information, visit waterlemonkids.com.

Walk This Way

For 30 years, Wellness House has served the community, providing support and comfort for those living with cancer. Wellness House depends on funds from its Walk for Wellness House fundraiser each spring. This year, the nonprofit decided to get creative and reinvent the event as a virtual walk in light of the COVID-19 pandemic and social distancing guidelines. The Virtual Walk for Wellness House will be on June 28. Participants are invited to participate in their own way, anywhere and everywhere. Be sure add the tag #NeverWalkAlone on social media. For more information or to register, visit walk.wellnesshouse.org.

HINSDALE

S. Monroe Street HINSDALE

HINSDALE

BEFORE MAKING HER WAY TO DOWNERS GROVE

STEFANIE A. ALI, M.D.

GREW UP IN HERMISTON, OREGON, A SMALL FARM TOWN IN THE NORTHEASTERN CORNER OF OREGON. THE MOM OF THREE—SOON TO BE FOUR— CHILDREN, ATTENDED SANTA CLARA UNIVERSITY IN CALIFORNIA BEFORE CONTINUING ON TO MEDICAL SCHOOL AT LOYOLA UNIVERSITY, WHERE SHE MET HER HUSBAND, ADNAN. ALI IS A CLINICAL DERMATOLOGIST AND DERMATOPATHOLOGIST AT DERICK DERMATOLOGY. ALTHOUGH HER MEDICAL TRAINING HAS TAKEN HER MANY PLACES, ALI HAD ASPIRATIONS TO MOVE BACK TO THE CHICAGO AREA. WHEN SHE’S NOT WITH CLIENTS, ALI ENJOYS SPENDING TIME WITH HER HUSBAND AND DAUGHTERS—ZARA ANN (5), LANA ROSE (4), AND ARYA GRACE (1). “WE ALSO HAVE A FOURTH BABY ON THE WAY, WHICH WE ARE EXCITED TO ANNOUNCE IS A BOY!” ALI ENJOYS EXERCISING AT ORANGE THEORY IN WESTMONT, AS WELL AS DABBLING IN ART AND TENNIS. SHE IS A PROUD MEMBER OF THE HINSDALE JUNIOR WOMAN’S CLUB.

EDITED BY KEMMIE RYAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBIN SUBAR

Mantra? Life is to be enjoyed, but we are at our best when we are kind and serve others. Best grooming tip? I am a dermatologist, so this is a loaded question. In a nutshell, sunscreen every single day!! Guilty pleasure? Dancing to Taylor Swift with my daughters. Favorite foods? Banana pancakes with peanut butter. Music you love? Halsey, Taylor Swift, One Republic, Bebe Rexha, and country music! Best advice ever given to you? You will never regret being kind. Best advice you’ve given? Don’t give up on your dream You’ll find a way to get there. What’s on your bookshelf? Decorations, but I am listening to a great podcast called, “Things you missed in history class.” You can’t live without? A water bottle, lip gloss, sunglasses, and my cell phone. Love to escape to? Capri, Italy. Advice you would give to your younger self? Just keep swimming—thank you, Dori.

WHEN IN THE COUNTRY

Your style is? Soccer mom chic. Can’t leave the house without?

A water bottle, lip gloss, sunglasses, and my cell phone. Transportation? Either the BMW X7 or the Honda Odyssey … depends on if just the hubby or kids too. Driving music? 103.5

Kiss FM with special attention to “waiting by the phone.” Place to eat? Vie, Pierce Tavern, Foxtail, Nabuki, Il Poggiolo. Shop? Marcus, Alixandra Blue and Collections, and RedE Mas. Best thing about the country? Friends and community! We have made lifelong friends in both Downers Grove and Hinsdale. Some of my best memories include unplanned neighborhood gatherings, holiday parades, and Hinsdale Junior Woman’s Club fundraising events. Worst thing about country? Honestly, nothing! We are such a short drive or train ride from the city that we get the best of both worlds. The perfect day is? A warm sunny day barbequing and swimming in our backyard with friends or sitting at a restaurant outside with friends.

WHEN IN TOWN

Your style is? Classic modern chic. Can’t leave the house without? Lip gloss, sunglasses, and my cell phone. Transportation? We have three—almost four—kids, so when we can get out a professional private driver is worth every penny! Driving music? Halsey and Bebe Rexha. Place to eat? Fig and Olive, Cindy’s, Maple and Ash, Merlo on Maple, the Hoxton Hotel. Shop? I love wandering the shops at Rush and Oak Streets. Best thing about town? The hustle and bustle. Worst thing about town? The hustle and bustle. The perfect day is? Staycation at the Langham Hotel, spending the day with the kids at Maggie Daley Park and the Lincoln Park Zoo, then a night out with my hubby at one of our favorite restaurants, and a nightcap with our city friends at Tao.

Fig & Olive

you need a team

Our attorneys never lose sight of the fact that divorce is both serious business and raw emotion. As you go through the most difficult time in your life, you need a law firm that is dependable, accessible, skilled, and proactive. You need a firm that listens to you and understands your objectives and fears.

Our team of attorneys bring experience to the table. Whatever the issue, we work to provide our clients with complete information and sound counsel, so that they can make informed decisions on settlement or trial. We resolve matters amicably where possible or through assertive trial work when necessary.

Not content to be like other firms, RCA attorneys distinguish themselves by providing unsurpassed customer service in the greater Chicagoland area and on an as-needed basis through its affiliated offices in France (Lyon) and Italy (Rome and Milan).

For more information about our firm, please visit our website at recent-law.com. It would be our pleasure to meet with you in Hinsdale or Chicago.

REED, CENTRACCHIO & ASSOCIATES, LLC. is a forward thinking, full-service family law firm, that maintains offices in Chicago, Hinsdale and o verseas.

WE CONTINUE TO BE HERE FOR YOU

If your personal crisis occurs in the midst of this global crisis, please know that we are here for you. With offices in Chicago and Hinsdale and an IT infrastructure that allows us to securely work and video conference from anywhere, we are prepared to help with your divorce and family-law issues, no matter the event.

CONSULTATIONS

We are still able to provide the same services remotely as though we were meeting with you in our office. We are happy to provide consultations via Zoom or telephone and do screen share strategy sessions. We continue to move cases forward through the court system.

MEDIATION

Nicole Centracchio is available for any mediation or parent coordination services that may be needed. With courts having restricted physical access, alternative solutions to ongoing family law crises are more important now than ever.

ONGOING COURT MATTERS

Courts now utilize virtual platforms to conduct pretrial conferences and hearings, and to deal with emergency motions. If you have an issue, now is the time to take action.

SUPPORT MODIFICATION

If you receive child support or maintenance or if you pay child support or maintenance and you are now facing an unexpected financial loss, including reduction of hours, reduced pay or unemployment, we urge you to call or email our office (info@recent-law.com) to discuss how these unexpected life changes could affect these payments. With issues such as these, time is often critical, as relief is usually measured retroactively to the date that a formal request was placed on file with the court. Here, time really is money.

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE RECOURSE

Both courts and local governments have been extremely sensitive to cases of domestic violence. In fact, such cases have been given clear priority since the shelter in place orders went into effect and are being heard promptly. There are measures to protect victims and there is reason to hope that justice will still be carried out. Of course, the current pandemic has made matters more complicated, but do not hesitate to reach out to us, should you find yourself in need of help.

At Reed, Centracchio & Associates, LLC our clients really feel like extensions of our own families. Your stresses are our stresses. Though times may be difficult, we have been helping clients through crises for many years. You might say it has become our specialty. Please let us know if we can help. We would love to hear from you and help ease your burdens. We are, as always, here for you.

The RCA Team wishes you good health and an excellent outcome on all of your family-law matters.

Make Meaningful Moves

Let’s be real: 2020 had a rough start.

You’ve held it together through a global pandemic, homeschooling your children, working remotely, on the front lines, or not at all...

Thanks to sheltering in place, you’ve spent an abundance of time at home, and you may be wondering: is this still the right place for us?

But embarking on a real estate journey when you’re already feeling the exhaustion of the past few months? Don’t worry, I’ll take it from here.

“Mike McCurry is a great man and a great professional. We deeply appreciated his experience and integrity.”

– James B. Bought a home in Clarendon Hills in 2019

AMERICAN DREAM

EDITED BY KEMMIE RYAN

Lapima Carlota Round-Frame Acetate Sunglasses, available at Moda Operandi, modaoperandi.com

Stine Goya Serena Faille Taffeta Shift Dress, available at Moda Operandi, modaoperandi.com

Mayoral White Dress with Navy Bows, available at Waterlemon Kids waterlemonkids.com

Anemone Open-Back Swimsuit, available at Moda Operandi, modaoperandi.com

Frescobol Carioca Perforated Knit Wool Polo, available at Moda Operandi, modaoperandi.com

IRO Ashville Leather Jacket, Colby T-Shirt, Amore Pumps, and Elyse Jeans, available at redE Boutique, redeboutique.com

Prada Small Leather-Trimmed Raffia and Canvas Bucket Bag, available at Moda Operandi, modaoperandi.com

Mayoral Red & Blue Set White Shorts, available at Waterlemon Kids waterlemonkids.com

Onia Charles Gingham Yarn Shorts, available at Moda Operandi, modaoperandi.com

Mayoral Baby Boy Navy Moccasins, available at Waterlemon Kids waterlemonkids.com

Shades of red, white, and blue to celebrate Independence Day— whether poolside at home or out with friends.

CANCER SCREENING GUIDELINES

WORDS BY CHIRAG PATEL, MD PHOTOGRAPHY BY FRANK ISHMAN

For both men and women over age 50, recommended cancer screenings include colon cancer and in certain cases lung cancer. Men also test for prostate cancer and women for breast and cervical cancers.

Colon cancer screening starts at age 50, although screening is recommended at an earlier age in high-risk family history cases. Various testing options are available including fecal immunochemical test (FIT), guaiac-based fecal occult blood test (gFOBT), stool DNA test, or MT-sDNA, CT colonography or virtual colonoscopy, and the colonoscopy. Capsule endoscopy is a newer procedure where the patient swallows a capsule with cameras on each end taking thousands of pictures, transmitted wirelessly to a recorder. Although less invasive than the colonoscopy, it is not the first choice for cancer screening and more often is used for small intestinal surveillance, where scopes cannot reach.

Lung cancer is the second most common cancer in both men and women. Each year, more people die of lung cancer than of colon, breast, and prostate cancers combined. Lung cancer screening is considered on a case-by-case basis. In patients with a chronic

smoking history, low-dose CT scans are recommended for early lung cancer detection. The frequency of these scans should be determined by your primary physician or lung specialist (pulmonologist).

For men, prostate cancer screening is recommended at age 50 onward. The common blood test called the prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is often ordered with routine blood testing performed on a yearly basis. However, the PSA is not specific for prostate cancer as its level can be elevated due to other conditions such as infection, elevated parathyroid hormone, or an enlarged prostate. Physicians have varying opinions on whether to test and how frequently testing should occur.

Women with an average risk of breast cancer should undergo regular screening mammography starting at age 45. Women aged 45 to 54 years should be screened annually. Women 55 years and older should screen every other year. Screening should continue biennially with a life expectancy of 10 years or longer. Other newer testing includes blood marker tests and MRI of the breast, although these tests should not replace the mammogram screening.

All women should begin cervical cancer testing (screening) at age 21. Women aged 21 to 29, should have a Pap test every 3 years. At age 30, a Pap test is combined with an HPV test every 5 years. This interval testing should continue until the age of 65. The testing interval changes based on test results, high-risk factors, and other medical conditions based on your primary care and/or gynecologist’s recommendations.

There are always exceptions to the rule, so be sure discuss your personal health and cancer screening with your primary care physician.

Hansa Medical Groupe has offices at 5250 Old Orchard Road, Suite 300, in Skokie, and in Chicago, 847-920-0902, hansamedicalgroupe.com.

Cedar Rooong Company, LLC

125 HILLCREST AVENUE, HINSDALE

$2,749,000

Exquisite designer’s custom home with beautiful appointments and wonderful warm appeal. Situated on a gorgeous tree lined street this stunning two story enjoys fabulous walkout lower level. Elegant entry, massive great room with large limestone fireplace and rich custom paneling, beautiful vaulted dining room with cerused wood flooring, spectacular kitchen and baths, wonderful first floor master suite with sumptuous marble bath, finished walkout lower level with family room, large kitchen, workout room, additional bedroom suite. Inviting large stone balcony with fireplace and lower patio to enjoy the beautiful lot. Easy walk to train and town.

130 E. THIRD STREET, HINSDALE

$2,499,000

Stunning stone three story with spectacular quality. Slate roof, copper gutters, magnificent moldings and paneling, 6 fireplaces, leaded windows, heated floors, generator. Dramatic entry and gallery with stone floors and incredible paneling, beautiful cherry library, fabulous great room with massive fireplace, gorgeous large kitchen and butler’s pantry, spectacular large sunny breakfast room, six bedroom suites, great finished lower level, inviting media/family room, impressive bar, wine cellar, workout room, full bath, and even a dumb waiter. Beautiful large lot, stone patio, 3 car heated garage, top Southeast location near town and train.

413 QUINCY STREET, HINSDALE

$1,125,000

What a value! Beautiful five bedroom home in Monroe School, lovelyformal rooms, beautiful dark hardwood floors, attractive new fixtures, spacious open family room with fireplace, large white kitchen, open breakfast room, and first floor office/ bedroom with full bath. Huge master suite with tray ceiling, two walk-in closets, elegant marble master bath, finished lower level with playroom, recreation room, bedroom, full bath, daylight windows, full bath. Very large private lot backing to no other homes, pretty landscaping, huge new deck, 3 car attached garage.

SEASONS OF CHANGE

Marianna and Jimmy Bannos Jr. open up about their lives in Oak Brook and why putting their family first keeps them grounded and ready to face any challenge life brings their way.

WORDS BY SHERRY THOMAS / PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRIAN BRIGGS STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA WITH DISTINCT ARTISTS HAIR AND MAKEUP BY SARA SALTANOVITZ WITH DISTINCT ARTISTS

The Bannos Family sits down for a meal of Greek chicken—a recipe handed down by Jimmy’s grandmother—and a fresh Greek salad.

When Marianna Shubalis Bannos was a little girl, her mother taught her to always look on the bright side of life, to seek out the goodness in any situation, even if it felt hard or uncertain.

Those lessons, and those family bonds, stay with the Oak Brook mother today as she navigates challenges no one could have seen coming—from changes in her marriage to award-winning chef Jimmy Bannos Jr. to the impact of COVID-19 on her husband’s restaurant business.

“Whether it’s the current pandemic or any life circumstance, we have to remember that the sun is going to continue to rise,” says Marianna. “The seasons will change. We can’t always control the outcome, but we can do our best to move through it gracefully.

Sometimes, she says, it’s not the crisis that defines us, but how we overcome it.

One of the things she and Jimmy Jr. had in common from the beginning was the bond that they had with their families. Hers was of the close-knit Greek type, and a big part of the reason she moved back to Illinois after working in the New York fashion industry.

Jimmy Jr., owner of The Purple Pig in Chicago and a 2014 James Beard Rising Star Chef winner, is from a similar background and is of both Greek and Italian heritage. He grew up cooking with his legendary chef father, Jimmy Bannos Sr., at Heaven on Seven, where

he learned the recipe to success in life was always to put family first. So that’s what he does today, in good times and in bad.

“Jimmy and I both agree that our greatest blessings in life are our children, Gianna and Olivia,” says Marianna, explaining that the couple is in the midst of a separation. “That sentiment doesn’t change, regardless of what may change around us. With that said, we will always partner to raise them with endless love and support to be healthy and happy children.”

Marianna says while she and Jimmy Jr. lived just a short walk from The Purple Pig when the couple was newly married in 2012, she always knew she wanted to move back to her hometown of Oak Brook.

“Having grown up in this suburb, I have always felt attached to Oak Brook because of its beauty, peacefulness, and sense of community,” she says, explaining that they bought a 1960s fixer-upper here in 2016. “In addition, my parents still live in my childhood home, which happens to be only a few doors away from us now.”

While Marianna and Jimmy Jr. continue building their business ventures, which now in-

Marianna Bannos in the family’s kitchen Dress courtesy of Neiman Marcus

Jimmy Bannos Jr.’s 2014 James Beard Rising Star Chef award

clude The Purple Pig, Piggie Smalls Mediterranean, The Salumeria (at Wells Street Market), and a new concept that will be opening in Los Angeles next year, Marianna has also found her creative outlet in renovating the house.

“Though it was well-kept, we completely renovated the interior and went from yellow shag carpet to a much more contemporary look,” she says. “Working on the house was a new creative outlet for me, which gave me something to be inspired about outside of work and motherhood. It was something that I put my heart in to and I really enjoyed managing the planning and watching the progress unfold.”

How does the celebrity chef spend time outside the kitchen?

“For him, family time with our daughters means engaging in activities outside of the kitchen, giving him an opportunity to recharge his batteries from the long restaurant hours,” explains Marianna. “However, because of my Greek heritage and Jimmy’s Italian and Greek heritage, food is an important part of our culture. So, having the ability to cook, eat good food, and host loud family dinners is a big part of our family life.”

While their home lives are changing, some things will always remain the same. One of those is their devotion to 6-year-old Gianna and 4-year-old Olivia, not to mention the family’s Cocker Spaniel, Roma. Even though Jimmy Jr. has been keeping busy at the restaurant during the pandemic, he sees them as much as his busy schedule will allow.

“Getting Jimmy back into the kitchen has served multiple purposes,” she adds. “In a time when the world feels so changed, it has given him an opportunity to offer his talents to lighten the burden of others. It has kept people from having to make that one extra trip to the grocery store or experiencing the frustrating attempts to order groceries online. It has saved busy moms like me from having to come up with yet another meal to cook—and wash yet another round of pots and pans. It has brought the city dining experience into homes across Chicagoland. And in turn, it has kept Jimmy at his happiest and healthiest, allowing him to do what he does best and create some amazing dishes at The Purple Pig.”

Jimmy Jr. says tips made from delivery orders or any gift card purchases to The Purple Pig are being gifted to his staff, currently on furlough, to support their financial needs during the pandemic.

Meanwhile, Marianna admits that she enjoys the special oneon-one time she has at home with her girls.

“It has influenced me to push my creative boundaries. While some days have been more for reflection and being cozy in our pajamas all day, others have been about creating and capturing special moments together,” she explains. “We’ve enjoyed our time with home schooling, doing science experiments, crafts, baking, and having our daily dance parties with the Alexa speaker blasting.”

Just as her mother taught her and her two sisters to find the good things in any situation, she’s similarly showing her daughters that as long as you keep a positive attitude, you can be happy anywhere.

“I hope that one day my daughters will tell stories about how in the spring of 2020, while they were physically distanced from family and friends, that their world didn’t stop otherwise,” she adds.

When not spending time on a new house project or taking a walk around Ginger Creek with her daughters, Marianna devotes herself to local charities. One of her favorites is Operation North Pole (ONP), a volunteer-based nonprofit that provides a fantasy trip to the North Pole for young people who are battling lifethreatening illnesses in Chicago’s major children’s hospitals. Each year, she sponsors a child by fulfilling their personal wish list. The Purple Pig also provides donations to help expand ONP’s mission for the care of children.

Marianna also supports Samaritan’s Purse: Operation Christmas Child at Christ Church of Oak Brook as a way to teach her girls about giving each year. She is also a member of the Philoptochos fundraising group at her parish, Holy Apostles Greek Orthodox Church.

With summer finally here and restrictions lifting in the village, Marianna says she’s looking forward to sunnier days ahead for everyone and playdates with cousins and friends.

“Gianna recently learned how to ride her bike without training wheels, so I expect we’ll be making laps around Ginger Creek a bit quicker this summer,” she adds. “And because my parents live in our community and are such an integral part of my life and our daughters’, we like to visit them regularly or ‘ding-dong ditch’ them on our bike rides, too.”

You would never know that snow had just fallen in May or that the world as we’ve known it was just forever changed.

It’s all about perspective. Marianna Bannos says, “Finding a new way of seeing things, refocusing on the positive, and being grateful for life’s blessings—no matter how great or small—will give you a new outlook on life and the ability to refocus on relationships and the things that matter most.”

“Finding a new way of seeing things, refocusing on the positive and being grateful for life’s blessings...”

Jimmy Bannos Jr. in the kitchen at The Purple Pig

THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE HOME

The irony of the “shelter in place” COVID-19 mandate we’ve been living in since March is that many people were simultaneously in a state of transition, either with their home currently on the market or needing to find a new home to hunker down in. As we emerge into a “new normal,” local real estate professionals share survival stories about how they kept their clients safe during the shutdown and predictions about how it will continue to influence the market for years to come.

WORDS BY SHERRY THOMAS

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Before the COVID-19 pandemic swept through our country, Megan McCleary admits that she had never even heard of a trendy videoconferencing app called Zoom. But months later, the real estate broker with Berkshire Hathaway Home Services says she has had more Zoom meetings than she can keep track of.

“We had various tools in place before the pandemic but are using them now more than ever,” says McCleary. “Listing appointments and showings have been conducted via FaceTime, and paperwork is completed electronically, so there is no physical contact.”

And that’s just one of the many ways that real estate professionals like McCleary have had to readjust and rethink the way they do business since the state was literally shut down by Governor JB Pritzker on March 21.

“I have been using social media for live, virtual open houses since the quarantine started,” she adds. “They are interactive and prospective buyers can ask

questions. Once the tour is completed, I can save the tour and share it with prospective buyers as needed.”

A practice created out of necessity has evolved into a valuable resource, and that, McCleary says, is one of many silver linings.

“During this time, we are doing business differently, but activity is still happening,” she explains. “I have multiple new listings across all price ranges and have closed multiple transactions.”

This success speaks to the reality of the real estate market during the coronavirus. While most of non-essential Illinois was told to put life on hold, the essential need to buy and sell homes did not stop. If anything, the impact of the pandemic is skewing the market in favor of West Suburban homeowners.

VIRTUAL REALITY

“We are working harder than ever,” says Chris Pequet, Vice President of Residential Sales for Jameson Sotheby’s International Realty. “Social media and online marketing have exploded. We are seeing five times more online activity than last year at this time.”

Like McCleary’s group, Pequet and her

team set up shop at home and changed to an all-virtual and online atmosphere.

“We have Zoom meetings for meeting new clients, touching base with old clients, and staff meetings. Our company is even holding weekly Town Hall virtual meetings to keep all the agents up to date with everything going on in the market,” she says, adding: “With virtual open houses and online brochures, along with all of the other marketing tools we have always offered, the activity has been outstanding in what could have been a very quiet spring market.”

Zoom and other digital tools are similarly trending at Dawn McKenna Group (DMG), not just to keep business moving but also to foster support during these unprecedented times.

“My team has been having biweekly meetings via Zoom to stay connected and up-to-date on each other’s market activity and deals in progress,” says Dawn McKenna, founder and principal of the luxury real estate enterprise. “But we are also doing it just to see each other and share our lives. We are all friends and care about each other. We miss that personal interaction, and it is an important

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part of our success as a team.”

DMG also launched a new initiative on its Instagram called “DMG Instagram Live,” where live online presentations of their properties are hosted on a rotating basis.

“This gives prospective buyers a firsthand look at our homes, allows them to interact with the DMG team member hosting, and ask questions about the featured homes,” McKenna adds. “Additionally, we have hosted several ‘Deep Dives with DMG’ where we invite experts in real estate and related industries to come together to discuss market insights, trends, and more. Our clients have made it very clear to us that even now they want to be kept up-to-date on the real estate market and so that is what we are doing.”

Mike McCurry of The McCurry Group quips that like his colleagues, he had to shift marketing gears into a virtual reality dominated by “Zoom and blue jeans.”

“The biggest adjustment that we have made is making appointments to show homes. Now we can easily see which sellers and buyers are motivated by their

flexibility to allow showings or go see properties,” he says. “We have been able to keep our clients safe during showings but some have not been out of their homes at all so it can be scary to allow people into your home.”

To counter that fear and ensure the safety of all, McCurry’s group also proceeded following new protocol to any face-to-face contact.

“We have created an environment for excellent virtual meetings. Face-to-face meetings have dropped by 70 percent so honoring our clients’ time has been a high priority,” he adds.

THE “NEW NORMAL”

Even as we transition into the unknown waters of this next phase of recovery, Beth Burtt, a Hinsdale-based agent with Baird & Warner, says she and her partners will continue to uphold the safety precautions that were put in place when the pandemic started.

“We wear masks, gloves, and carry Clorox wipes. We also ask the seller if they would be comfortable with us

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turning on lights, opening closet doors, and arranging everything so nothing is touched,” says Burtt. “The buyers are asked not to touch anything, and we will be the only one to touch the light switches and the doorknobs. Then, as we leave, we wipe down the front door and key. It has evolved into a comfortable situation for everyone.”

It’s also translating into good news for business.

“We are having an increase in showings, and there are homes going under contract,” she adds. “It has started to be fun to do short live tours and I am getting much more relaxed filming! We are doing FaceTime tours for buyers who are not comfortable coming into a home or cannot come in from out of town. In the last few days, I rented a home and a colleague sold a home based on the FaceTime tours.”

Tracy Anderson, founding broker with Compass real estate in Hinsdale, says there are things about this “new normal” that she hopes are here to stay.

“The strategy has shifted more to try to give the potential buyer as much in-

formation and visualization of the home as possible before making an actual appointment. And I have to say, I see this shift as a positive outcome of shelteringin-place,” she explains. “Buyers are less likely to be out kicking tires. They are much more focused. I am doing virtual showings via FaceTime, using Matterport 3D technology, video recording the neighborhood so buyers who are out of town or can’t drive by are able to see what the surrounding area looks like.”

At press time, Anderson was also poised for a notable first.

“Well, if our offer gets accepted, it will be the first time my buyers bought 100 percent without personally seeing the home,” she says. “I have FaceTimed one spouse in the past but this time, we did everything via Facetime.”

Another agent with Compass, Kris Berger, says while she and her team have heavily relied on virtual tools for some time, going through the shutdown has resulted in more teamwork and collaboration.

“My two transaction coordinators and I have always worked somewhat virtually

because I’m usually out and about and talk through text and calls all day anyway. We’ve always been a well-oiled machine, so this has kind of streamlined it even more so now,” she explains. “I have asked that they take the time they need with their kids, and I am doing more of the day-to-day than I had usually been doing. If I have the time, I am doing more of the daily tasks myself and trying to give them time to be with their kids at home, teaching and homeschooling. We are working together and giving each other what the other needs.”

Another local agent, Emily Sachs Wong of @Properties, shares similar stories. Like her colleagues, she and her team embraced Zoom and similar digital resources to take their business online.

“We are doing Zoom open houses, Zoom meetings, virtual showings … basically whatever we have to do to assist in getting the house sold,” says Wong, sharing a prediction that could change the face of the West Suburban real estate market for years to come.

“In the wake of this pandemic, I would plan on more city buyers moving in,” she

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explains. “People want space now, so this is good news for all suburbs.”

STATE OF THE MARKET

Berger also foresees an “exodus out of the city” as a result of COVID-19.

“I think the Hinsdale area is going to be busy once this all lifts. If you have the means to move from another town or the city, why wouldn’t you want to live in this area? We have everything,” she says. “I really think the younger families that have stayed in the city with kids are realizing that they actually need a house with grass space or an area where parks are in abundance—and more elbow room than their city dwellings.”

Linda Feinstein, a managing broker and team leader at Compass in Hinsdale, is already seeing that trend emerge with her clients.

“We have found that many city residents have decided they are no longer comfortable with the density of downtown,” she says. “With the charm of our village, great schools, spacious parks, and easy commute to the city, Hinsdale and surrounding areas are a popular choice

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right now.”

While the market never truly lost momentum, our local real estate experts only see it heating up later this summer and fall.

“Home is such a huge component to this pandemic, and people have had this time to analyze it, all of which, I think, will result in change,” Berger says.

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“That means purchases.”

Anderson agrees, anticipating a new focus on making sure every room is as functional as it is beautiful.

“Rooms that didn’t previously get as much use as they did pre-COVID-19 are getting a workout. I see exercise rooms or at least a designated space for exercise becoming more important, space for

each member of the family to work and school from,” she says. “Home offices going forward are going to be of extreme importance, as I imagine many businesses have discovered their employees can productively work from home more so than they thought.”

Based on her team’s current sales during these “worst of times,” Burtt sees nothing but potential ahead.

“We are optimistic about the Hinsdale market. We headed into the spring with a stronger market than in the last few years, so we hope to gain back much of the strength fueled by demand and unbelievably low interest rates,” she says. “Many of the city families will now head to the suburbs, and Hinsdale has always been an attractive area with top schools, 18 miles distance to the city, express trains that are only 20 minutes, easy access to two airports, a strong community, and a great village.”

McCurry also anticipates an increased demand as a result of this crisis.

“I see the end of the second quarter ramping up, then, going into our best

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third quarter that we’ve experienced in years,” he says. “There will be a lot of pent-up demand after staying in our homes, working out of our living rooms and small home workspaces.”

Does this mean that Hinsdale and surrounding communities could see a new influx of younger residents?

Absolutely, according to McKenna.

“The Hinsdale market has always been strong and has proven resilient despite the stay-at-home order, and I believe it will stay strong. Suburban living is in high demand right now, and Hinsdale is among the best suburbs in the country,” she says. “Lately we have been fielding a lot more questions from younger buyers beginning to think about starting families outside of the city.”

Julie Sutton, principal of The Julie Sutton Group at Compass, says this new

crop of urban buyers also realizes the joy of the suburban backyard after being forced to stay inside for months.

“We are seeing increased numbers of city buyers who are wanting more square footage and more outdoor space,” she says, offering an even more inspiring story that bodes well for our collective future.

“At the start of the shelter-in-place, we sold a home in a price point that hasn’t had a closed sale in over 18 months. The confidence of that buyer, that the market would quickly rebound, has been witnessed in all of our buyers and sellers,” explains Sutton. “I don’t think the market activity will dip between the Fourth of July and Labor Day but will pick up and remain steady into the fourth quarter. This could result in one of the best years for real estate in a long time.”

W hile the pandemic has brought turmoil and uncertainty to our lives these past few months, McCleary and her colleagues acknowledge the positive things they already see coming from this.

Zoom, for example, isn’t going away anytime soon. Shifting to digital marketing strategies and virtual showings reveals an efficiency that some real estate professionals are only planning to build on in the months ahead.

And yet there are some things—vital things—about the real estate business that we may never want to lose.

“I expect we will continue to use the technology we have implemented during this time,” says McCleary. “But nothing can replace the in-person showing. A home is a big investment and people want to experience it when making a decision this important.”

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A REALTOR FOR LIFE

Often the best strategies are doomed by forces outside of a business owner’s control or by poor execution. Other times, a well-executed plan meets the right market conditions or a pressing need, and great results follow. If recent history is any indication, super-realtor Dawn McKenna and her Dawn McKenna Group have the perfect plan for today’s market.

Having achieved as much success as possible in Hinsdale, including regularly ranking since 2007 as Coldwell Banker Realty’s No.1 agent in Hinsdale, the state of Illinois, and the Midwest by 2016, McKenna’s clients started asking for help elsewhere. Most often requested were Western Springs, Chicago’s downtown neighborhoods, North Shore suburbs, and Naples, Florida. Sensing an opportunity, McKenna formed the Dawn McKenna Group. Choosing local agents that shared her vision, McKenna built one of the nation’s most successful real estate teams with 19 agents and offices in Hinsdale, Winnetka, Lake Forest, Chicago, and Naples.

McKenna’s strategy is simple—expand into feeder and destination markets with local experts and help them leverage McKenna’s stylish marketing, award-winning website (dawnmckennagroup.com), powerful social media presence, and global reach.

“We wanted to be there for our clients’ whole life cycle, from their first Chicago apartment to their move to the suburbs, and then when they’re ready for Naples’s sun, taxes, or both,” McKenna says.

It looks like McKenna was right. With over $249 million in transactions and more than 500 satisfied Chicago renters in 2019, the Dawn McKenna Group was Coldwell Banker Realty’s No.1 team in not only Hinsdale, but Western Springs, the state of Il-

linois, and the Midwest, as well as the No. 3 team nationally. The group’s new rental team shot to No. 1 in Illinois and No. 10 nationally among Coldwell Banker Realty’s large rental teams, while the Naples office is now Coldwell Banker Realty’s No. 2 Naples small team and a Coldwell Banker International President’s Circle top 100 Florida small team.

Then COVID-19 broke out and, despite real estate being deemed essential, many realtors froze. Not McKenna.

“Whether due to job changes, financial issues or pre-COVID-19 plans, our clients still needed to buy, sell, and rent,” said McKenna. “We told them we’d do what it would take to be there for them.”

Rapidly adopting new techniques and technologies to proven practices, the Dawn McKenna Group has been there. Since March 1, the Dawn McKenna Group has closed more than $76 million in sales with more than $46 million under contract.

“We’re not nurses or doctors or first responders. They’re heroes. But I’m very proud of my team,” McKenna says. “Our clients need us and we’re finding ways to help them.”

Whether it was the booming stock market, the disparity in taxes between Illinois and Florida, or a global pandemic, McKenna’s strategy met a market primed and ready for a truly fullservice real estate team. When this crisis passes many things may be forever changed, but it will always be true that when a smart, well-executed strategy meets a market opportunity or a critical need, great results follow. McKenna and the Dawn McKenna Group prove that point.

From first condo to retirement, Dawn McKenna Group aims to be the only realtor families will ever need.

WORDS BY MITCH HURST

Dawn McKenna Group is located at 8 E. Hinsdale Avenue in Hinsdale, 630-546-3763, dawnmckennagroup.com.

Dawn McKenna Group

Just Listed by the Julie Sutton Group

KIMBERLY ARQUILLA is a born and raised Texan—yes, she loves a good steak! And although she hails from a long line of attorneys, she decided on a career in accounting, spending most of her career with PricewaterhouseCooper. In 1995, she was transferred to Chicago and decided to plant her roots in Hinsdale, where she raised three amazing children—Isabella (22), Primo (20), and Giorgio (18). “I love Hinsdale and am grateful for lifelong friends here,” exclaims Arquilla. Recently she became a single empty nester, but the stay-at-home order brought her children back home for some extra bonding time. She says, “I am blessed that my young adult kids enjoy spending time with me—and I say that even after this long quarantine closeness!” Arquilla enjoys ballroom dancing, racing her car on a private track, and visiting her children when they are away at college. She is also a passionate supporter of helping women succeed in the community—founding Work+Shop, a unique concept boutique designed to educate and empower local women entrepreneurs to succeed in business and life. Arquilla exlplains, “While going through the divorce process, I was struck by the need for women to support each other. It has become my newfound passion.” Work+Shop provides a variety of resources, including in-store display space, online shopping, empowerment events, and more. All of the items in the boutique are from women-owned companies and a portion of the proceeds are donated to the B&B Foundation, whose mission is to provide an array of resources to needy women facing difficult life transitions.

EDITED BY KEMMIE RYAN ILLUSTRATION BY ROBERT RISKO

LAST GREAT READ?

Seeds of Intention by Andrea Thome.

LAST TIME ON THE DANCE FLOOR?

It was the last night of freedom before the COVID-19 stay-at-home order.

LAST FAMILY TRIP THAT YOU WILL CHERISH FOR A LONG TIME?

Ever since the kids were little, we have traveled to Colorado to ski and celebrate Christmas. However, last year my oldest wanted to go somewhere warm. We chose Hawaii and it turned out to be such a wonderful trip that we will repeat.

LAST EVENT THAT MADE YOU GRATEFUL TO BE PART OF THIS COMMUNITY?

The Community House Holiday Ball is such a wonderful time to connect with friends—old and new. This past event, Work+Shop purchased a table for local women entrepreneurs to gather for some much-needed holiday fun. We laughed and danced the night away!

Dr. Hanna, who personally performs all dermal injectables using Restylane fillers and Dysport to soften lines, can restore facial volume, reduce wrinkles, plump up thin lips, and recreate a more youthful facial appearance.

As a Facial Plastic Surgeon, he has the expertise and experience to restore a natural more youthful appearance to the face. Experience Matters.

STAY CONNECTED WITH

In the last month, we have had a front row seat to what is possible when community, compassion, commitment and commerce come together.

VIRTUAL GIVING ROOM EVENT

NEW WAYS TO CONNECT...

We look forward to spotlighting the good and continuing to connect our tenants with customers virtually and, most importantly in person, when we get back to business in the very near future. Visit ShopBurrRidge.com for more resources on how to stay engaged while social distancing.