The North Shore Weekend, September 23rd, 2023

“The heat of autumn is different from the heat of summer. One ripens apples, the other turns them to cider.”

-Jane Hirshfield

President Gillian Growdon is grateful for the

Fall Area Rug Sale

NEWS

7 signature soirée

A signature Soiree raises more than $350,000 for Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center programming

8 lederson optional Elkhart Lakes hosts its second annual Elktobe fest, a salute to German heritage that's fun for the entire family

LIFESTYLE &

10 more than she imagined Peyton Merrill, owner Bunny & Babe, expands her Winnetka retail space to women of all ages

12 fall preview

We bring you the latest fashion trends for a season of style

14 #hashtag

Meet John Maxson, lifelong antique car enthusiast and co-chair of the upcoming "Then & Now” Auto Show

16 material pursuits

Must-have bags from Hermes and Gucci plus a decadent spritz you won't want to miss

LAST BUT NOT LEAST

22 sunday breakfast

Why incoming Lake Forest Country Day School Board of Trustees Presiden Gillian Growdon says it's an exciting time be a part of the school

John Conatser FOUNDER & PUBLISHER

ADVERTISING @NSWEEKEND.COM

Jennifer Sturgeon

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

Michelle Crowe, Allison Duncan, Dustin O'Regan, Kemmie Ryan, Sherry Thomas, Megan Weisberg

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Mitch Hurst, Bill McLean, Ann Marie Scheidler

DESIGN

Linda Lewis PRODUCTION MANAGER/GRAPHIC DESIGNER

Chris Geimer ADVERTISING COORDINATOR/GRAPHIC DESIGNER

PHOTOGRAPHY AND ART

Lisa Sciascia

PHOTOGRAPHY

Tom Bachtell, Barry Blitt

ILLUSTRATION

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INQUIRIES SHOULD BE DIRECTED TO EDITORIAL@NSWEEKEND.COM

On Saturday, October 14th, Engel & Völkers will be hosting our fourth annual 60 Minutes for Special Olympics fundraising event. All Engel & Völkers Americas’ shops and network members are participating in the fundraiser and pledge to spend 60 minutes engaged in any form of exercise to support the cause. We invite you to join us in supporting this incredible organization by making a donation to Special Olympics. Your donation goes towards providing tennis rackets, basketballs, soccer balls, and other sports equipment, as well as sending athletes to the Special Olympics Games.

Thank you to all who are participating, donating, and supporting this fundraiser!

BY MITCH HURST

NORTH SHORE WEEKEND

It’s not hyperbolic to say Harry Hirsch, at the ripe young age of 13, is a fundraising legend.

For his birthday parties, since he was just 2 years of age, Harry has foregone the Thomas the Tank Engines and other birthday presents, instead asking his pals (and parents, obviously) to donate to KaBOOM!, a national organization that builds or refurbishes playgrounds in underserved communities throughout the country.

This summer, in lieu of receiving gifts for his bar mitzvah, Harry asked that donations instead be made to KaBOOM! to build a playground outside Avalon Park Fine and Performing Arts School on Chicago’s south side.

A quick pro at grassroots fundraising, Hirsch also reached out to loved ones, distributed flyers at school, delivered speeches to his father’s business colleagues, and created videos on social media to solicit donations.

Hirsch is a big playground fanatic, you could say.

Even now, he’d find it tough to walk past one without climbing some bars or hopping on a swing. And that passion for playgrounds has paid off in a big way. Hirsch raised more than $20,000 in donations for the Avalon Park school project, helping to cover the financial gap needed with corporate sponsor Discover Card and Chicago Public Schools for the KaBOOM! playground equipment, and also enough to donate indoor play equipment and STEM games for the winter months. He also recently helped to build the new playground on a rain-drenched day this summer.

“I played on playgrounds a lot when I was 2 and then my mom heard about KaBOOM! and she was interested in it,” Hirsch, a 7th grader at Edgewood Middle in Highland Park says. “She noticed how much how much I loved playgrounds, and she couldn’t imagine a kid’s life without one.”

Hirsch’s mom, Sarah, says when Harry was 2, KaBOOM! was running a challenge at the time where it had you find how many different playgrounds parents could go on with their toddlers,

“I was so fascinated by the way I would watch him at a new playground and see how his brain would work trying to climb up a different climbing structure or try a new slide or just figure out the lay of the land at a new playground,” she says. “The

more playgrounds he did that summer the more his speech started improving and I thought, ‘I wonder if there’s something to this’. I just felt like going to the playground was having such a big impact on him.”

Hirsch says she was thankful for the KaBOOM! challenge that summer when Harry was 2, and that was what originally prompted her to think instead of bringing a present to Harry’s birthday party to ask guests to donate to the organization. Eventually, after a few years, Harry caught on to the idea of no presents and became a fundraiser and spokesperson for other kids

The Washington Post showed a lack of sufficient play areas in low-income communities throughout the area.

“Our founder saw this story and just decided to mobilize the community resources to get the community a playground,” says Lysa Ratliff, KaBOOM!’s CEO. “Fast forward 28 years later only to realize there are communities all across our country that don't have play spaces. Imagine going to school and there's no playground, there's just a black top.”

Ratliff says the organization’s work is about making sure that it is bringing

“Our focus is making sure all kids have access to amazing places to play. There's something really special about our process,” she says. “We're trying to move the needle to make sure any kid that goes to school, any kid that lives in their community, has all the benefits that come from a playground and a park that they can kind of live out their childhood and be with their families and friends.”

What's special about KaBOOM! is that its process involves engaging kids and community members in designing what they want to see in their playground.

It’s not top down, but rather a partnership with community residents and families. The organization works closely with school principals, Boys and Girls Clubs, and YMCAs and other child-service organizations that might not have the resources build play spaces.

“What's really special about it is that the community builds it. Volunteers like Harry come out and the community is there, and they get their hands dirty and work together to build that play space.” Ratliff says. “We've built or improved over 17,000 spaces, and our focus is really figuring out how can we lock arms with our child-serving organizations and system partners to focus on where they don't have play spaces that need them and get them built.”

As for the young Mr. Hirsch and his passion for playgrounds, Ratliff says he really is one of a kind.

to donate their birthday for the cause. He’s something of a pioneer.

KaBOOM! was founded nearly 30 years ago when a young brother and sister died while playing in an abandoned car in Washington, D.C. Subsequent reporting by

together resources and investments to bring community designed play spaces to communities that don't have them, and 99 percent of the time those are communities that have been historically disinvested and mostly communities of color.

“Harry is very special and has been supporting us since he was two. There are no other Harrys, just one of him,” Ratliff says. “He’s not just raised money for us; he's come out and spent his time helping support us in building play spaces. His energy is the essence of what we think is important about childhood.”

Harry Hirsch of Highland Park raised funds and helped build a playground for Avalon Park Fine and Performing Arts school in Chicago.

KaBOOM! provides funding for playgrounds in low-income communities across the country.

The Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center Women’s Board raised more than $350,00 at a fundraiser earlier this month with a Jewish deli theme.

The Women’s Board (WB) of the Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center (IHMEC) raised more than $350,000 at its annual signature Soirée. More than 400 guests came together on Sept. 7 at Bryn Mawr Country Club to support the Museum’s mission to preserve the stories of Holocaust Survivors and continue their legacy into the future.

“We were thrilled to have everyone come together for such a wonderful night,” said Sue Spinello, Women’s Board co-president. “We appreciate everyone’s support of the Soirée as these critical funds will go a long way in helping the Museum achieve its mission,” said Leslie Schaffel, co-president.

The evening kicked off with a piano bar as guests mingled, enjoyed hors d’oeuvres and cocktails, and bid on Silent Auction items.

The Soirée paid tribute to Survivors with photo displays at every table and a short video featuring Survivor testimony on the Museum’s importance and impact. Kelley Szany, Senior VP of Education & Exhibitions, gave personal remarks drawing from her 20-plus years with IHMEC, sharing how the resilience of its Survivors formed a foundation for the Museum’s groundbreaking holography and virtual reality exhibitions.

“With the rise of antisemitism and other hate crimes, connecting the lessons of the Holocaust to present day continues to be as urgent as ever,” said Bernard Cherkasov, Museum CEO.

“While our primary focus is on education and awareness, social events such as the Soirée are another way to work toward our mission.”

Guests also got a sneak peek at what’s next at IHMEC: “I’ll Have What She’s Having”: The Jewish Deli, an exhibition opening on October 22. Presented by Once Upon a Bagel, “I’ll Have What She’s Having” reveals how Jewish delicatessens became a cornerstone of American food culture and how delis served

as a lifeline for many Holocaust Survivors and refugees who came to the United States.

In conjunction with the exhibition, the event featured a deli station with mini corned beef sandwiches and pickles. As they left, guests pulled their favorite flavors from the event’s Signature Donut Wall and received special “I’ll Have What She’s Having” branded jars of mustard. All guests also received complimentary admission to visit the exhibition.

The Soirée raises funds to support the Museum’s mission to combat hatred, prejudice, and indifference, and to inspire visitors to become Upstanders who speak out for what’s right—turning powerful lessons of history into positive actions today. The WB specifically earmarked funds from this event to support upcoming special exhibitions, field trips to the Museum (virtual and in-person) for students in under-served communities, and Law Enforcement Action and Democracy (LEAD) Training.

The Women’s Board was formed 14 years ago with the goal of increasing awareness for the Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center. It provides fundraising support to the Museum with a focus on educational programming.

Past sponsored events include book and author discussions, film screenings, private exhibition openings, art discussions, and more. The Soirée is the signature fundraising event for the Women’s Board.

Presented by Redcap Music and Records tomfuller.rocks

LEDERHOSEN OPTIONAL

Don your favorite German attire and head north next weekend as the resort town of Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, puts its own spin on the traditional Oktoberfest.

BY SHERRY THOMAS THE NORTH SHORE WEEKEND

Hoist a stein and join the German-themed revelry next weekend as Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, hosts its second annual take on a Munich tradition—Elktoberfest.

“This area of Wisconsin has such a strong German heritage so it’s fitting for Elkhart Lake to extend its event season with a fun, family friendly version of Oktoberfest,” says Kathleen Eickhoff, Executive Director of Elkhart Lake Tourism. “We launched this as a new event last year and people really got into it, dressing up in dirndl and lederhosen and dancing to polka bands.”

With live music, German food, and Oktoberfest brews from Elkhart Lake’s own SwitchGear Brewery available throughout the weekend, this free event offers something for everyone. There’s even a 5K Wine & Beer Run/Walk and a Root Beer Garten with children’s activities and games at Village Square Park. The famous Elkhart Lake farmer’s market will also be running next Saturday morning with special Elktoberfest touches.

“The thing that really sets our event apart is that it’s very family oriented,” says Eickhoff. “The 5K is a more of a fun run. Some people dressed up in German attire last year for what is a very relaxed, low-key run through the village.”

Elktoberfest festivities officially kick off at 5:30 p.m. next Friday with a Stein Social at Siebkens Resort, one of the original properties that helped establish Elkhart Lake as a retreat for well-heeled “resorters” more than a century ago. Its founders, Herman and Laura Siebken, opened their resort in 1916, drawing from experience operating hotels in Germany to instill the old world traditions that continue to this day.

Purchase your commemorative Elktobertfest stein here and keep it full all weekend long with SwitchGear brews offered at other event sites all weekend long. The Stein Social also features live music, food, and games in the alley and yard of Siebkens Resort with picnic tables set up for German beer hall-style socializing.

“It’s a lot of fun,” says Eickhoff. “Elkhart Lake is very lively destination and our community really shines on event weekends.”

New this year is a bratwurst eating contest arranged in partnership with the Sheboygan-based Miesfeld’s and a potato salad cookoff similar to another popular Elkhart Lake culinary contest—the big (and very competitive) chili cookoff held each year as part of Schnee Days (the German word for snow). Both events will take place on the lawn of The Shore Club, another popular lakefront resort.

“Whether people are making German, Polish, or American potato salads, we know that a contest creates a lot of comradery,” says Eickhoff, explaining that Elktoberfest activities are being held throughout the village to provide visitors with the full range of Elkhart Lake experiences. “The Root Beer Garten will be held at Village Square Park, which is right off the square. Culver’s is also going to be here serving ice cream floats with SwitchGear root beer.”

Another entertainment highlight for children of all ages

PROST!

Elktoberfest runs September 29 through October 1 in the idyllic resort community of Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin. Here’s the full line-up of events to begin planning your German-infused retreat.

FRIDAY, SEPT 29

Kick off Elktoberfest at the Stein Social, held 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. in the Siebkens Alley & Yard with live music by The Polka Masters. Other highlights of the evening include a 6 p.m. “community prost” featuring a local celebrity guest.

Those staying at or near The Osthoff Resort can also enjoy live music by the Abler McManus Duo in the Elk Room from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m.

SATURDAY, SEPT 30

The Elkhart Lake Farmers Market is a Saturday morning tradition, held from 8 a.m. to noon at the Elkhart Lake Depot & Square. Pick up fresh seasonal vegetables, flowers, cheeses, local art, and specialty products from a variety of vendors. You can also pick up your preordered Elktoberfest tshirts at the Elkhart Lake Visitor Center at this time.

Those participating (or ready to be a spectator) in the Elktoberfest Wine & Beer 5K Run should report to the Vintage Elkhart Lake Wine Shop at 9 a.m. Get ready to savor postcard-perfect lake views and wine provided by shop and local craft beer from SwitchGear.

will be the presence of Elkhart Lake’s official mascot—Elroy, the elk. This lovable costumed character will be joined by Charlie, the mascot from Miesfeld’s, along with Culver’s mascot, Scoopie. Get the cameras ready for photos while the kids enjoy face painting, pumpkin decorating, bouncy house, and other crafts.

And let’s not forget the thing that began luring visitors to Elkhart Lake more than 100 years ago—that big, beautiful lake. Literally carved from ancient glaciers in the heart of the Kettle Moraine State Forest, the 292-acre spring-fed lake stretches four miles around, with natural springs and a sandy bottom that turn its waters an almost otherworldly shade of blue.

In addition to Elktoberfest festivities and luxury resort accommodations, you and your family will also be able to arrange golf, swimming, paddle boarding, canoeing, and fishing excursions on what is shaping up to be the quintessential fall weekend getaway.

“Our resorts will be having special packages available for overnight stays and some of the other activities people love to do here, including watersports on the lake, will still be available,” says Eickhoff.

Hiking trails also abound, whether you opt for a shorter Ice Age Trail or a longer, more challenging loop in the Kettle Moraine State Forest. Also popular is the 30-acre Sheboygan Broughton Marsh Park and Tower, which boasts at 228-mile trail system and the Sheboygan Marsh Wildlife Area.

“I find that September is one of our most spectacular times of year,” she adds. “Days are warm but nights are cool. Colors are starting to change so for families and people coming up for the weekend, Sunday would be a great day to take a trail hike or get out on the lake. We really do have it all.”

For more information about Elktoberfest, including themed resort hotel packages, visit elkhartlake.com/elktoberfest.

The fun continues at 11 a.m. (continuing to 10 p.m.) with SwitchGear Brewing’s Oktoberfest Party, featuring live music by The Waltzmeisters, giant German pretzels, and a game of Hammerschlagen. For a different kind of brew, head over to the Root Beer Garten at Village Square Park. From noon to 3 p.m., kids can enjoy free root beer (and root beer floats), face painting, games, and a special appearance by Culver’s mascot, Scoopie. If hoisting a stein has worked up your appetite, find your way over to Miesfeld’s Elktoberfest tent at The Shore Club lawn from 3 to 8:30 p.m. for the potato salad cook-off and/or brat eating contest. Potato salads for the cookoff will be dropped off at 2 p.m. for judging to commence at 2:30. Potato salad (including some of the potato salad contest entries) will be for sale after the winners are announced. The Miesfeld’s Brat Fry kicks off at 4 p.m. (and goes until 8:30 p.m.) with grilled brats and burgers for sale. If you’re feeling brave and ready to compete in Miesfeld’s inaugural brat-eating contest, gather around at 4 p.m. Eat as many brats as you can in 10 minutes for your chance to be the 2023 Miesfeld’s champion. In the midst of all of this good food and comradery, you can also dance the night away to live music (from Motown to hip hop) by Boo! The Band at the Miesfeld’s tent. Live Music by Super Dave will also be playing from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. in the Elk Room at The Osthoff Resort.

SUNDAY, OCT 1

You played hard this weekend and what’s a better than cure for that Elktoberfest hangover than a hearty breakfast. The following Elkhart Lake restaurants will be ready for you Sunday morning with special offerings during these times:

All Seasons Family Restaurant (6 a.m. to 3 p.m.)

Amasa Mexican Bakery & Eatery Food Truck (9 a.m. to 10 p.m.)

Brown Baer (11 a.m. brunch)

Concourse Restaurant & Lounge (11 a.m. to 2 p.m.)

Elk Room at The Osthoff Resort (7 a.m. to 10 p.m.)

Off The Rail Cafe (8 a.m. to 2 p.m.) Breakfast sandwiches, coffees, smoothies, homemade muffins, bakery, and more!

Otto’s at The Osthoff Resort (7 to 11 a.m.) Breakfast buffet featuring bacon; sausage, biscuits, and gravy; French toast; quiche; fruit; pastries; scones; and more.

Quit Qui Oc Golf Course (9 a.m. to 1 p.m.) Bloody Mary cocktails; omelets; skillets; pancakes; French toast; and more.

Route 67 Saloon (11 a.m. to 10 p.m.)

Siebkens Stop-Inn Tavern (11 a.m. to 10 p.m.)

MORE THAN SHE IMAGINED

Bunny & Babe owner Peyton Merrill expands her fashionable retail space to deliver top-notch customer service to women of all ages.

BY ANN MARIE SCHEIDLER THE NORTH SHORE WEEKEND

W innetka’s Peyton Merrill grew up in the fashion world. Having worked her way up the ladder of a national retailer to running its 10,000-square-foot store on Michigan Avenue and managing its 40 employees—she dreamed that one day she might have her own store.

That time finally came in February 2020.

“Can you believe my timing?” Merrill says with a quick laugh. But even a pandemic couldn’t stop her.

“My store manager and I used social media creatively and did our best to stay connected to our customers even when our store was closed,” she says. “So, when COVID was over—really over—our business exploded. I felt like we just outgrew our original space at 555 Chestnut.”

When a retail neighbor, two doors down, decided to close, the timing was in Merrill’s favor.

“The store space was just an amazing shell,” Merrill says. “With a little decorating, we were able to open in three months.”

But Merrill’s desire to expand still wasn’t satisfied.

Bunny & Babe owner Peyton Merrill

Photography by Lisa Sciascia

“Once we opened, I realized how much I wanted the storefront in the middle,” she says. “Having the two stores separated by another tenant wasn’t easy. It was hard for our customers—and hard on our staff—to go back and forth between the two. I was finally able to negotiate with the neighboring owner and now Bunny & Babe is as I always hoped it would be.”

Today, Bunny & Babe can dress young

women from the seventh grade into their seventies and beyond. They also offer beautiful home accessories and gifts.

“We really are known for our dresses,” Merrill explains. “Everything from casual day dresses to cocktail and wedding attire. We try to visit New York six times a year on buying trips, in addition to Dallas and Atlanta. The root of who we are is very classic, but we keep our finger on the pulse

of new, feminine lady-like brands that are just emerging so that we can offer them before anyone else.”

The expansion has lent itself to Bunny & Babe unveiling its newest concept for its younger customers—Violet.

“Violet is a focused collection for our high school to college-aged girls,” Merrill explains. “We think the name Violet fits so nicely with our signature colors of lavender and light blue.”

Merrill and her team work tirelessly on their merchandise displays. “I think one of the reasons the store does so well is because we pay careful attention to aesthetics,” she notes. “We try to keep things fresh because we know the details matter.”

Merrill also believes the extra space will support the level of customer service her team strives to provide.

“We do our best to welcome each customer into our store and find out how we can be of assistance,” she shares. “If a customer just wants to come in, look around, and not be bothered—that’s fine with us. But most people who walk into our store are looking for something. Our goal is to be helpful. I think this makes such a difference to our customers, and this is a huge priority for us. We don’t like a customer to leave without feeling completely satisfied.”

2. VISIT A PUMPKIN PATCH FARM. And if you can’t make the trip outside the city, Jack’s Pumpkin Pop Up in River West is open through November.

3. CATCH A BEARS GAME and enjoy the early season tailgating.

4. GO HIKING at one of the many forest preserves around the Chicagoland area and take in the fall foliage. Or be bold and visit Starved Rock!

While Merrill knows that many women want an in-store shopping experience, some value the convenience of an e-commerce site.

“We’ve completely revamped the website for our store and have a dedicated e-commerce team,” Merrill explains. “Customers can literally buy just about anything we have in our store from the website. Instagram is the main feeder for our e-com business. Everything is always linked as we try to make it easy for our customers to shop. We’re happy to make free local deliveries and are so excited to see our business grow nationally. This is such a great opportunity for us.”

The next logical question for Merrill is, what’s next?

“You know what? I’m excited to slow down a bit and hone in on the details that we haven’t even had time to think about yet,” she says. “It’s time for the fun stuff— improving the flow of the store, hosting more pop-ups, perfecting our space—focusing on all of the little things that will make shopping at Bunny & Babe special. I can’t wait.”

For more information, visit bunnyandbabe. com or follow their Instagram @bunnyandbabewinnetka. Bunny & Babe is located at 555 Chestnut in Winnetka.

7. VISIT THE CHICAGO BOTANIC GARDEN in Glencoe, for their Fall Festival, October 6—10

8. VISIT LINCOLN PARK ZOO, we recommend checking out their Fall Festival, September 29— October 29

9. RIDE A DIVVY E-BIKE and Cruise around the city or down the lakefront trail. Make sure to wear a helmet!

1. GO APPLE PICKING. There are many locations, but we especially love Apple Holler Orchard (5006 S Sylvania Ave, Sturtevant ,WI) just over the state line, in Wisconsin. Lots of fun things to do.

5. VISIT MILLENIUM PARK and check out a free concert or movie or just hangout and enjoy the beauty of this great city.

6. VISIT A ROOFTOP BAR and sip on a cocktail while taking in the changing colors of fall.

10. GO FOR A WALK ON THE 606 and dont’ miss the awesome colorful murals by local artists.

FALL PREVIEW

The season’s newest arrivals.

EDITED BY ALLISON DUNCAN THE NORTH SHORE WEEKEND

01 Carolina Herrera Dress, neapolitan collection Winnetka, 847-441-7784 02 Veronica Beard Crosbie Crop Corduroys, Nordstrom Old Orchard, 847-677-2121 03 Nike Dunk Low Next Nature, nike.com 04 Anine Bing Hilda Boots, Anine Bing Gold Coast, 21 E Chestnut, Chicago 05 Anine Bing Lydia Jacket, Anine Bing Gold Coast, 21 E Chestnut, Chicago 06 Andrew Gn Pink Floral Dress, neapolitan collection Winnetka, 847-441-7784 07 Eric Javits Sun Hat, Nordstrom Old Orchard, 847677-2121 08 Berlinger Jewelry x Kris x Kaitlynn Solstice Morganite Stud Earrings, berlingerjewelry.com 09 Lafayette148 Walden Reversible Coat, Nordstrom Old Orchard, 847677-2121 10 Jenni Kayne Cocoon Sweater, Jenni Kayne Chicago, 872-829-0202 11 Barrie Floral Pullover, neapolitan collection Winnetka, 847-441-7784 12 Saint Laurent Bag, Saint Laurent Chicago, 312-202-0166 13 Anine Bing Beck Jean, Anine Bing Gold Coast, 21 E Chestnut, Chicago 14 Old Navy Fall Denim, oldnavy.gap.com 15 Isabel Marant Sunglasses, Nordstrom Old Orchard, 847-677-2121 16 Chloe Marcie Embellished Tote, neapolitan collection Winnetka, 847-441-7784 17 Saint Laurent Printed Pants, Saint Laurent Chicago, 312-202-0166 18 Chloe Marcie Loafer, neapolitan collection Winnetka, 847-441-7784 19 Saint Laurent Jacket, Saint Laurent Chicago, 312-202-0166 20 Vince Blazer Cardigan Jacket, Nordstrom Old Orchard, 847-677-2121

“HE SAVED MY LIFE”

Peripheral Neuropathy is the pain, discomfort and numbness caused by nerve damage of the peripheral nervous system. Linda explained that daily tasks like opening doors and using the bathroom were overwhelmingly painful. “How can you live for the next 30 years when you don’t even want to get out of bed to do simple things?”

Linda hasn’t worn socks in five years and was wearing shoes two sizes too big so that nothing would ‘touch’ her feet. She was experiencing the burning, numbness, tingling, and sharp pains that those suffering from neuropathy often describe.

Highland Park resident Linda S. had been experiencing the painful side effects of Peripheral Neuropathy, “my feet and legs were extremely painful and my doctor told me there was nothing they could do. That I would have to take Gabapentin for the rest of my life.”

Then she met Dr. Su.

“The way that I would describe it, it’s equivalent to walking on glass.”

Unfortunately Linda’s story is all too familiar for the over 3 million people suffering from Peripheral Neuropathy.

If you are unfortunate enough to be facing the same disheartening prognosis, you’re not sleeping at night because of the burning in your feet. You have difficulty walking, shopping, or doing any activity for more than 30 minutes because of the pain. You’re struggling with balance and living in fear that you might fall. Your doctor told you to ‘just live with the pain’ and you’re taking medications that aren’t working or have terrible side effects.

Fortunately, four months ago Linda read an article about a new type of clinic in Northfield that works with difficult to treat cases such as Peripheral Neuropathy sufferers, without invasive surgeries and medications.

Dr. Kuan Su, DACM, L.Ac., Dipl.OM founder of Acupuncture North Clinic is using the time-tested science of Acupuncture and technology originally developed by NASA that assists in increasing the blood flow and expediting recovery and healing to treat this debilitating disease.

“Now when I go to bed at night I don’t have those shooting pains. I don’t have that burning sensation. I don’t have pain coming up my legs,” Linda enthusiastically describes life after receiving treatment with Dr. Su. “I can wear socks and shoes!”

Dr. Su has been helping the senior community for over 10 years using innovative integrative medicine. Specializing in chronic pain cases, specifically those that have been deemed ‘hopeless’ or ‘untreatable’, he consistently generates unparalleled results.

Now Linda and her sister operate a successful dog walking business, sometimes covering up to 5 miles a day.

“It’s life altering. As far as I’m concerned, Dr. Su saved my life!”

Dr. Su has been helping the senior community for over 10 years using innovative integrative medicine.

Specializing in chronic pain cases, specifically those that have been deemed ‘hopeless’ or ‘untreatable’, he consistently generates unparalleled results.

What was once a missing link in senior healthcare is now easily accessible to the residents of Northfield and the surrounding Northshore area. If you missed too many tee times because of pain or you’ve passed on too many games of pickleball because you’re afraid of falling, it is time to call Kuan at Acupuncture North Clinic.

Dr. Su is now accepting a limited number of new patients. In an effort to protect his patients, both current and future, he has made the difficult decision to limit the number of patients seen in his clinic. Only 10 new neuropathy patients will be accepted before the end of October 2023.

It’s time you let your golden years BE GOLDEN!

EDITED BY SHERRY THOMAS ILLUSTRATION BY TOM BACHTELL

JOHN MAXSON is a life-long antique car enthusiast who co-chairs the Lake Forest “Then & Now” Auto Show on October 1 at the West Lake Forest Train Station. He purchased his first car in February 1964 while he was a senior in high school—a 1931 Ford Model A Sport Coupe, which he still owns and has restored twice. Over the years the Ford has shared the garage with various other collector cars, the current one being a 1941 Packard Convertible Coupe.

Born in 1946, he grew up in the Washington, D.C. area, graduating from MacMurray College in 1968 with a major in Physics. Following a short stint in teaching, he joined Commonwealth Edison Company in 1970 and a few years later earned an MBA at night from Northwestern University. After holding various management positions at ComEd, he become president and CEO of the Illinois Coalition in 2002, and then in 2004, became president and CEO of the Greater North Michigan Avenue Association. He retired in 2009 to enjoy more family time and pursue his lifelong interests in history, vintage automobiles, and music. Currently, along with Lake Forest resident and car enthusiast Ed Russ, he serves as co-chair of the Advisory Board of the Lake Forest “Then & Now” Auto Show. He is also a member of the Advisory Board for the Geneva Concours d’Elegance. Both are premier Chicago area invitationonly special interest car shows. He has been married to Jennifer Lloyd Maxson for 46 years, has two adult children, and three grandchildren.

#ON MY NIGHTSTAND

I like biographies and recently finished Oppenheimer: American Prometheus by Kai Bird and Martin Sherwin and The Last Man Who Knew Everything by David Schwartz. Next on the list is Judging Edward Teller: A Closer Look at One of the Most Influential Scientists of the Twentieth Century by Istvan Hargittai. I am in the middle of Reading Between the Lips, a fascinating narrative by writer and creative thinker Lew Golan about how he made it in Chicago’s highly competitive advertising industry despite being totally deaf.

The upcoming presidential election has my attention! The Democrats seem to have locked in on President Biden while something like 25 Republicans, including a former president who pollsters say leads the pack by more than 40 percent, are at war with each other to secure the nomination.  As a former corporate director of government affairs who worked in Washington and thought he had seen it all, this is really something!

I am a singer and guitar player in North Shore Line, a local classic rock band, and am always listening to the next set list. This includes songs by Eric Clapton, Billy Joel, Peter Greene, the Eagles, the Beatles, The Who, Steve Miller Band, Doobie Brothers, and others that people under the age of 20 have never heard of.

#ON MY MOBILE

#IN MY EARBUDS

MATERIAL PURSUITS

This weekend’s curated luxury trends

APPRECIATE IT

Have you ever been curious about the intricate process behind the creation of the iconic Kelly bag by Hermès? Now is the perfect opportunity to satisfy that curiosity. When Hermès unveils its extensive renovation on Oak Street this coming October, the renowned French design house will provide Chicago with a glimpse into its rich heritage. Hermès in the Making is a unique opportunity for an intimate view of the skilled artisans who transform craftsmanship into true artistry. Taking place at Union Station from Friday, October 27 through Wednesday, November 1, Hermès in the Making, will bring the brand’s master leatherworkers, porcelain craftsmen, watch artisans, silk specialists, and exquisite jewelers into a single space. Here, they will not only showcase their techniques but also engage in real-time creation of their pieces. This extraordinary experience is a Midwestern exclusive, with Chicago following a wildly successful stint in Troy, Michigan. It’s a testament to the devotion of local customers to the brand, for which the company is grateful. How wonderful to experience the artistry behind these icons of style. Truly special, and just a train ride away. Make a day of it with a visit to the refreshed boutique and lunch along the river for the ultimate parallels between sister cities Chicago and Paris. hermes.com/us/en/ content/300493-hermes-in-the-making-troy/

GIDDY UP

The house of Gucci is reinterpreting one of its most recognizable motifs this fall with the maxi Horsebit Chain shoulder bag. This revived equestrianinspired design with double ring and bar hardware is available in quilted leather in all the essential colors or the signature Gucci web stripe. First made popular in the early 2000s, this thoroughly modern Maxi Horsebit bag comes with two detachable straps— one in leather and the other in chain— and a magnetic snap closure. There is also a clever card slot and inside pocket. We love this bag in deep red leather, made in Italy of course. Available for $3,490 at gucci.com.

As the leaves fall, cashmere comes out of the closet, and backyard fire tables blaze, it’s time to switch to a lush fall fragrance. An exquisite choice from Cartier’s high perfumery is Oud Vanille Les Heures Voyageuses fragrance. The combination of two key ingredients, two accords that echo one another, united by some of their facets: oud wood, with its woody, animal notes and its evocative power, and vanillin, with its powdery, sweet, olfactory, and highly addictive notes. It’s perfect for every power woman. cartier.com

FALL FRAGRANCE

Extensive Local & Global Reach

At Engel & Völkers our goal is not to be #1, but to be the best. Part of what makes us the best is our global reach. As an international company and brand, we have a reach throughout the World unlike any other brokerage. With 1,081 shops globally and 295 shops in the Americas, we have a broad network of advisors working to give our clients the highest standard of service. Combined with our personalized approach to real estate, I can pick up the phone to call an advisor in any of our shops throughout the World to market a home or connect my clients with a trusted advisor when their adventures take them elsewhere. Add in our digital reach to places as far as Asia and my reach to potential buyers is endless.

Closer to home, I have a broad and extensive network in the community of other real estate agents and community members. It is all about the relationships and how they are fostered. I am proud to have the local and global reach of E&V behind me. Learn more at carlyjones.evrealestate.com.

ODE TO SCHOOL

Former Lake Forest Country Day School student Gillian Growdon—the mother of a seventh grader at the school and a pair of LFCDS graduates—is thrilled to exalt the school’s mission as its new president of the board of trustees.

BY BILL MCLEAN ILLUSTRATION BY BARRY BLITT

When she was a Lake Forest Country Day School (LFCDS) student from kindergarten to third grade, Gillian Growdon wrote a poem that touched on love.

No, not that kind of love.

Think “love,” as the word denoting “zero” in a sport involving a court and yellow balls.

“It was an ode to my tennis racket,” Growdon recalls. “I wrote it from my racket’s perspective.

“Terrible poetry,” she adds with a smile.

Growdon began taking a swing at her duties as the new Lake Forest Country Day School President of the Board of Trustees in July. Look for her to connect often—with sweet-spot shots.

The Lake Forest resident adores the place up and down, from its mission and faculty and staff to its students and parent community and alumni.

“To know and love every student is at the core of our school’s mission, and it strengthens Lake Forest Country Day School’s sense of community,” says Growdon, who previously served the school as vice president of the board of trustees and as a co-chair of the Head of School search that brought John Melton to the post last summer. “We have a happy, fully engaged faculty. Some teachers have been here for more than 30 years. And we have talented people on our board.

“I like to be very organized and linear with how I use my time. As board president, I want to bring out the best in each board member.”

Gillian and her husband, John, are parents of LFCDS graduates Stewart, 17, and Reese, 15. Their other son, Lewis, is a seventh grader and a soccer player at the school, a coeducational, independent private school—founded in 1888—for students ages 2 to eighth grade, “I’ve heard Stewart and Reese use words like ‘special’ and ‘perfect experience’ when describing Lake Forest Country Day School,” Growdon says, adding Stewart now attends Wayland Academy in Beaver Dam, Wisconsin, and Reese is a student at Loomis Chaffee School (Gillian’s alma mater) in Windsor, Connecticut. “They truly feel lucky and grateful for having gone to a school that prepared them so well for where they are now.

“They were in the car with me this summer as I drove past the school. Both looked at it

of Barry and Mary Ann MacLean’s five children, attended Libertyville High School for her freshman year before enrolling at Loomis Chaffee School, where she took journalism, satire and philosophy courses, among others, and ran for the Pelicans’ track and cross country teams.

Barry served Mettawa as its roads commissioner before becoming a longtime mayor of the village. Mary Ann, who died in 2016, was an Illinois State Board of Education member.

“My parents were a dynamic duo,” says Growdon, who turns 50 later this month

and chose to hike the Inca Trail in Peru with friends this past spring to mark the looming milestone birthday. “Mom and Dad loved to travel together. Mom had a great laugh, a wonderful sense of humor. She was always very generous with her time and valued all of her many friendships. She also was strong and a straight shooter.

“Mom needlepointed belts for the males in her lives,” the daughter continues. “I love needlepointing, too. I’ve had the hiking bug for quite some time, and I enjoy yoga. I learned how to golf, but I’m terrible. I bake. I cook. I make a killer gravy.”

Growdon majored in geology at Dartmouth College and earned her MBA at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business. She met her future husband for the first time when both were employed in Silicon Valley. She worked for six years as a finance manager for a tech company and served on the board of trustees of Trinity School, an Episcopal day school (preschool through fifth grade) in Menlo Park, California. The nonprofit Random Acts of Flowers later hired her.

The Growdon family moved to Lake Forest in 2017.

“It’s such a great place to raise a family, and it’s beautiful, as you walk around it and see the lake,” Growdon says. “I remember ice skating at Winter Club of Lake Forest as a child, right around the time I was working on my poetry book. I saw Miss Sally, one of my teachers, there. Third grade is the year when students typically begin to truly bond with their teachers. I bonded with Miss Sally.

“I also remember another Lake Forest Country Day School assignment, this one food related. I brought Scotch eggs (because of her Scottish heritage) to school.”

But Growdon embraces present day Lake Forest Country Day School as much as she cherishes its past. It’s time for her to work hard and creatively with a brilliant team of trustees, rather than to figure out—all on her own—what rhymes best with “tennis” or “strings” or “grip.” The 2023-2024 LFCDS curriculum and the challenges of devising sound strategic planning genuinely excite her.

“We’re all about the whole student at Lake Forest Country Day School,” Growdon says. “There’s more to education than academic excellence. As trustees, we are committed to provide full support for the school’s mission. My family, while I was growing up, valued education highly. Parents of Lake Forest Country Day School students value what the school offers their children.

“We have a strong, caring leader in (Head of School) John Melton, who never gets rattled. Our faculty members and students are gearing up for trips to Springfield, Costa Rica, and Quebec. It’s an exciting time to be a part of the school.”

Lake Forest Country Day School is located at 145 South Green Bay Road in Lake Forest. For more information, visit lfcds.org or call 847234-2350

To know and love every student is at the core of our school’s mission, and it strengthens Lake Forest Country Day School’s sense of community.

A class act to the end

CHERYL CHAMBERS

chambers cross were the women trailblazers of the north shore... and i thank you for showing me the way.

As you would aways say CC, “you only get to do this once so make sure you choose well.”

Love, the girl who called you, at times, before her own mom