Your go-to guide for all the latest local events this month
10 north shore sports
New Trier's girls' swim team is rock solid in water at the state meet
14 time for giving
Join two Lake Bluff women on their crusade to deliver needed items to Hurricane Helene victims
LIFESTYLE & ARTS
16 handcrafted
A former owner of Teddy O'Brian's in HIghwood shares picks from his new role at Vermont Spirits
18 #hashtag
Meet Paula Carballido and learn how she established a Lake County Honor Flight hub in North Chicago
20 north shore foodie
This Cranberry Orange Curd recipe is a delicious addition to your Thanksgiving dinner table
LAST BUT NOT LEAST
22 sunday breakfast
Highland Park native Mandy Kirsch deserves an apple a day for her work as a fifth-grade teacher at Pleasant Ridge School in Glenview
EDITED
NORTH SHORE DOINGS
NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 8
SANTA’S MAILBOX
WHERE: The Gazebo in Mallinckrodt Park
Mail your letters to Santa at the magical mailbox in Mallinckrodt Park. With your letter, include a selfaddressed and stamped envelope so Santa can write you back. All letters must be dropped into the mailbox by December 8. wilmettepark.org
NOVEMBER 23 TO DECEMBER 31
GAME OF GNOMES
SCAVENGER HUNT
WHERE: Downtown
Wilmette
Set out on a fun adventure throughout Wilmette. Twelve holiday gnomes are hiding among the window decorations of 12 stores throughout Wilmette. Fill out the game card with names as the gnomes are found. Once you have all 12, turn in the game card at the Game of Gnomes drop box at the Wild Child Toy Shop. Entries will be eligible to win a Shop Wilmette Gift Card. A new winner will be picked each week in December. Share your finds on social media for a chance to win extra prizes. wilmette.gov
NOVEMBER 24 TO 25
POTTERY ON THE PRAIRIE
WHERE: Mellody Nature Farm Preserve
Kids ages 6-12 are invited to Lake Forest Open Land Association’s (LFOLA)
Mellody Nature Preserve for Pottery on the Prairie, a twosession, seasonal collaboration between Claire Willis Pottery and LFOLA held from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.
On the first day you’ll collect plants and natural found objects to engage with clay
pottery projects, participate in guided hikes and hands-on project-based learning activities. The second day (at Claire Willis Pottery Studio) will be spent at the studio, glazing, decorating, and learning about backyard nature and pottery. Each participant will have the opportunity to create at least one clay conifer tree, which they can then glaze and decorate back at the studio in part two of the workshop. lfola.org
NOVEMBER 24
THE MUSIC INSTITUTE CHICAGO CHORALE
WHERE: Nichols Concert Hall
At 3 p.m., The Music Institute Chorale opens its 2024–25 concert season with “Clap Your Hands,” featuring music for choir and brass, including Daniel Pinkham’s Christmas Cantata. Admission is free. musicinst.org
NOVEMBER 28
CHICAGO THANKSGIVING PARADE
WHERE: State Street, Chicago
The award-winning Chicago Thanksgiving Parade returns for its 90th anniversary from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. It will travel up State Street from Ida B. Wells Drive to Randolph Street. Witness the best Chicago has to offer including marching bands, festive floats, majestic equestrian units and a diverse array of cultural performance troupes— all led by notable Chicago hosts and a special visitor from the North Pole. chicagothanksgivingparade.com
NOVEMBER 29
LIGHT THE LIGHTS FESTIVAL
WHERE: Wyman Green
From 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., downtown Glencoe will be holding its annual light festival. The festival will include a six foot 3D light up display of Glencoe’s zip code,
live music from Rosie and the Rivets (bring your lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy music on the green), trackless train rides through downtown, a new kids carnival ride, Winter Village, and more. villageofglencoe.org
NOVEMBER 29 TO 30, DECEMBER 6 TO 7 & 13 TO 14
MARIANI LANDSCAPE’S HOLIDAY SHOPPE
WHERE: Mariani
Landscape’s headquarters
The Holiday Shoppe is coming to Lake Bluff from noon to 5 p.m. on November 29, 30, and December 13, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on December 7 and 14. This event will feature an extraordinary selection of Christmas Trees, holiday decor, fresh greenery, and seasonal arrangements. Highlights include Santa and his sleigh making a visit, hot chocolate and cider with a bonfire for s’mores, exclusive holidays decor, and container arrangements. marianilandscape.com
NOVEMBER 30
SMALL BUSINESS
SATURDAY
WHERE: Central Street, Evanston
Shop small on Evanston’s Central Street and show local support in a big way. Shoppers who spend $100 or more will receive a $20 Evanston gift card.
downtownevanston.org
DECEMBER 5
HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE
WHERE: Downtown Wilmette
Enjoy a family-friendly day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. complete with holiday shopping and dining. A breakfast with Santa is available with advanced reservations from 9 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. at Convito Cafe. The day is full of local shopping and dining promotions, visits with Santa, a giant snow globe, carolers, a
scavenger hunt, live performances, and a showing of Elf at The Wilmette Theatre. Bring a recent receipt from a local business of $10 or more and get a free ticket to the movie. Then convene on Village Green for hot chocolate, caroling and the annual tree lighting. wilmette.gov
DECEMBER 7, 8, 14 & 15
ELF INVASION PUB CRAWL
WHERE: Downtown Highwood
Don’t miss Highwood’s 5th annual Elf Invasion Pub Crawl. This fun event starts at 2 p.m. and runs until the affiliated bars close. Participants will start at 28 Mile Distilling Company where they will get their Elf Troupe Assignment and follow their Elf leader to Teddy O’Brian’s, Broken Tee Brewing Company, Toadstool Pub, and the legendary Wooden Nickel. Registration is encouraged for one of the five Troupe groups that leave every 45 minutes between 2 p.m. and 5 p.m. There is a $20 registration fee and space is limited. celebratehighwood.org
DECEMBER 7
TREE LIGHTING AND HOLIDAY MARKET
WHERE: Kenilworth Assembly Hall
Join Santa and Mrs. Claus
from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. for Kenilworth’s tree lighting and holiday market. Carolers will provide music. kenilworthparkdistrict.org
DECEMBER 7
COOKIE & COCOA CRAWL
WHERE: Ravinia District
Kick off the holiday season with warm cocoa, festive cookies, and tons of fun. From 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., kids can pick up their cookie collection bag and tickets in Jens Jensen Park. Visit local participating businesses throughout the district and enjoy the festive decorations. Santa will also be in attendance. enjoyhighlandpark.com
DECEMBER 8
HOLIDAY HOME TOUR
WHERE: Lake Bluff History Museum
Jump start the holiday season with Lake Bluff History Museum’s Holiday Home Tour. From 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., guests can pick up new decorating ideas, visit two holiday boutiques in historic homes, and enjoy the creativity and tradition of their neighbors. Tickets are $50 each. lakebluffhistory.org
DECEMBER 20
WINTER SOLSTICE
WHERE: Shelton Park
Decorate yourself, your family, dogs, strollers, or wagons with lights and things
that glow. Meet at Shelton Park in Glencoe at 5 p.m. to mark the passing of the year’s longest period of darkness. Enjoy Abbot’s Bromley Horn Dance, an ancient musical procession historically performed at this time of year. Stroll the Green Bay Trail to sing songs and celebrate the arrival of longer days. Festivities will end at 6 p.m. with a bonfire, hot chocolate, and refreshments. The parade will be canceled in the event of severe weather; event updates will be posted at gbtrail.org. No candles or open flames, please! Winter Solstice is co-sponsored by the Friends of the Green Bay Trail and the Glencoe Park District. glencoeparkdistrict.com
DECEMBER 31
MIDNIGHT AT THE MANOR
WHERE: Deerpath Inn Deer Path Inn is transforming its English Room and Courtyard into a winter wonderland. Guests will enjoy a New Year’s evening of glamour, fine dining, and live music. Cocktail hour begins at 7 p.m., followed by a lavish buffet dinner. Tickets are available now. thedeerpathinn.com
To submit your event for consideration, please email events@nsweekend.com.
BY CHEYANNE LENCIONI THE NORTH SHORE WEEKEND
Elf Invasion Pub Crawl
JOEY GAULT Broker and Team
BETH WEXLER Broker and Team Lead
LIZ SALINAS Broker and Team Lead mimi goodyear heather siegel lauren rabin
Jolie Friedman Paula Gagerman
cari zweigdriscoll elise dayan
glazer
BY BILL MCLEAN THE NORTH SHORE WEEKEND
PHOTOGRAPHY BY GEORGE PFOERTNER NORTH SHORE SPORTS
Tierney Lenahan was 7 years old and living in Washington state when she wanted her first day as a swimmer to be her last day.
“I hated it,” Lenahan, now a New Trier High School senior, recalls.
“My mom (Amy) made me go to the second practice.”
Mother knew best.
Amy’s daughter looked right at home—
TOP TIERNEY
New Trier Township High School senior swimmer Tierney Lenahan sparkles at her final state meet, leads Trevian to runner-up showing.
and downright formidable, once again—in the pool at FMC Natatorium in Westmont on November 16, pacing New Trier Township High School’s Trevians to a runner-up showing at the girls swimming and diving state meet and setting a pair of program records in individual events along the way.
“Tierney,” New Trier coach Robert Guy says of the Duke University-bound star, “is the epitome of the athlete who thrives in big moments. It’s hard to perform under the pressure of the last day of the state meet and with everybody watching. But she, like so many of her teammates, did just that.
‘They all gave it their all.”
Lenahan, a transfer to New Trier two years ago, won the 100-yard backstroke (program-record time of 53.2), swam the first leg of the state championship 200 medley relay (1:40.65), touched second in the 100 freestyle (program-record 48.79), and helped the 400 freestyle relay—along with senior Zara Bolton, Olivia Safarikova
and Marin Shimkus—clock a third-place 3:20.85 that obliterated the program’s previous top time in the relay.
“We were prepared for this weekend,” says Lenahan, who is thinking about ma joring in Public Policy at Duke. “It took a lot of hard work and dedication, all worth it.”
Freshman Riley McNeal, Bolton, and Maeve O’Donnell swam the other three legs for that first-place 200 medley unit.
Shimkus silvered behind Lenahan in the 100 backstroke with a time of 54.96 after placing fifth in the 50 freestyle (23.25). Bolton also contributed a runner-up showing, going 54.25 in the 100 butterfly. Coach Guy received a fourthplace 1:49.82 in the 200 freestyle from Safarikova and a fourth-place 1:04.08 n the 100 breaststroke from McNeal.
Rosary High School scored 290 points to successfully defend its state title last weekend. New Trier finished with a runner-up total of 272 points St. Charles North HS (251) took third.
SOMETHING TO SAVOR
Loyola Academy senior swimmer Maria Cheng pulls her way to fourth place in the 100-yard backstroke, helps Ramblers place seventh at the state meet.
For Loyola Academy senior swimmer
Maria Cheng, last week’s bittersweet team dinner had nothing to do with flavors and everything to do with feelings.
It was held at a teammate’s house on the eve of the two-day girls’ swimming and diving state meet at FMC Natatorium in Westmont. And it marked the last time Cheng and other seniors convened as active members of the Ramblers’ crew under the direction of coach Greg Hartman.
“Getting together like that, with such a special group, will be one of the many memorable parts of my final season,” Cheng says. “We had so much fun, so much camaraderie.
“I’m going to miss spending time with my teammates.”
The food they consumed on November 14—mainly pasta—served as ample fuel for their state-meet races in the pool November 15-16. But Loyola’s collective talent and fortitude also propelled the squad to its seventh-place finish in Illinois.
“Such a close-knit, dedicated team,”
Hartman says. “The girls had been looking forward to their moments on the final weekend of the season for a while. We got what we expected from our old reliables, namely Maria Cheng and (senior) Reilly O’Hara, and sophomore Sophia Friestedt certainly made a name for herself.
“Freshman Lia Roggi,” he adds, “helped a lot with her versatility and became a fixture on our relays.”
Cheng emerged as the lone Rambler to collect a pair of top-six medals at state, finishing fourth in the 100-yard backstroke (55.49) and serving as the lead-off leg for the sixth-place 200 medley relay (1:44.41); Roggi, Friestedt and senior Georgia Andrew swam the other legs.
Andrew raced in all three relays (200 medley, 200 freestyle, 400 freestyle) at state.
Cheng’s backstroke state medal was her fourth in the event. She had collected 10th-, third-, and sixth-place pieces of hardwood from 2021-2023, respectively.
O’Hara took 12th in the 200 freestyle
Q & A with Loyola Academy football player
Micky Maher
A year after being reduced to that of a spectator because of a serious foot injury, Loyola Academy senior strong safety Micky Maher suffered a torn ankle ligament in the season opener on August 31 and then missed more games.
Maher’s right hand might have saved the Ramblers’ football season on November 9. He used it to block a punt in a Class 8A secondrounder, setting up the go-ahead touchdown in Loyola’s 24-20 defeat of Marist High School.
(1:52.72) at state, matching Roggi’s place in the 50 freestyle (23.72). Right behind Roggi, in 13th place (23.79), was Friestedt.
“Everybody contributed to our success, which doesn’t surprise me,” Hartman says.
“Micky is a glue guy and pound for pound one of the toughest guys on the team,” says LA coach Beau Desherow, whose reigning state champion squad faces Lincoln-Way East HS in a state semifinal this weekend. “He’s resilient, committed to the team, and positive, embodying the values we want in our studentathletes.”
What’s the difference between the regular season and the postseason?
MM: Everyone is more hyped up., even along the sideline. Every play is like the last play of the season. We’re all locked in.
Loyola football, in a nutshell?
MM: Gritty, hard-nosed, disciplined, family. Care to relive your clutch punt block?
MM: I rushed unblocked up the middle and got horizontal to block it.
What was rehab like after your injury in August?
MM: I wanted to return so badly because being able to play that quarter and a half before I got hurt was the best feeling.
Quick thoughts on Coach Desherow?
MM: Awesome. He’s also our special team coach, and he always makes the right calls.
Kate Shanahan of Wilmette is a survivor, an advocate, and a visionary entrepreneur. Her journey takes her through a fierce battle with breast cancer, multiple failed IVF attempts, and three miscarriages could have easily been a story of defeat. Instead, it's one of triumph and empowerment.
How did she do it? She was inspired by the adoption of her daughter, Emme, and the birth of an idea that would change their lives and many others.
Let’s back up though. Kate and her husband Tim have seen their fair share of challenges.
They were married in a hospital in Albany, New York in 2010 after Kate’s father suffered a stroke 10 days before their wedding. Soon after, however, they were blessed with the birth of their baby girl Dorie in 2012. Life brought them another hardship when Kate was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2013. With a five-month-old in tow, Kate’s treatment included surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation.
Following Kate’s intense 12 months of treatment, over the next few years, the Shanahan’s suffered three failed IVF attempts
and three miscarriages—the last of which was on her 40th birthday. But relentless in their pursuit of completing their family with another child, in January 2019, Kate and Tim signed with RG Adoption Consulting and in August 2019, they were gifted with the birth of their daughter Emme, a baby girl of color from Atlanta, Georgia.
Immediately upon bringing home their beautiful blessing, Kate was struck by an instinctive need to ensure she had access to both products and guidance on how to care for her daughter’s hair and skin—which was different from her own.
She quickly realized she was not alone in this quest and recognized there was a significant gap in the market for a one-stop shop for natural beauty products tailored to diverse families like her own. Kate soon co-founded
Sweet Peach Tree in 2021— paying homage to Emme’s birthplace. And today, Sweet Peach Tree is an online marketplace offering high-quality, natural hair and skin care products, inclusive of diverse fami-
lies by providing both guidance and products that foster confidence, pride, and self-love in every customer.
“My experience of coming together as a family through a non-traditional path means that this venture is not just a business; it’s a celebration of heritage, identity, and family— values that are deeply woven into the fabric of every diverse family’s journey,” says Kate.
She believes that the real issue today isn't a lack of beauty products, but finding ones that meet a family's specific needs easily. Despite many options, there's often no guidance to help choose the best—and safest—solutions. Most mainstream products cater to a broad audience, resulting in sub-par results, and many contain harmful ingredients with longterm effects. What’s missing are personalized, reliable solutions that prioritize a family's
wellbeing. And for most families, a combination of products from different brands work best for individual needs.
“We seek to create a joyful, authentic online shopping experience for mothers, fathers, caretakers, and friends to come and find the beautiful hair and skin products they need and trust in one place,” she says. “We curate the best, highest quality, all natural products from brands that know what it takes to care for hair and skin naturally—from tight coils to wavy curls, sensitive or delicate skin types. And if my family doesn’t use it, we don’t sell it.”
And all of Sweet Peach Tree’s products are sourced from Black owned/women owned premium artisanal businesses.
Having worked at places such as BRIDES magazine in New York, Kate experienced the ins and outs of the beauty and publishing industries and garnered skills she has leveraged to nurture her business and advocate for adoptive families. Her story is a powerful reminder of how personal struggles can lead to profound societal contributions.
Sweet Peach Tree offers products for hair and body for individuals of any race and gender. The favorites of the proprietary Sweet Peach Tree brand products include the Sweet Peach Tree Body Butter, Sweet Peach Tree All Things Balm, and Sweet Peach Tree Glow Hydrating Oil.
“We used to be a family of over-the-counter lotion for moisture and now we are body
butter converts. Nothing provides lasting hydration like a natural body butter. And our Sweet Peach Tree All Things Balm is great for eczema and any skin irritation, scrape, or scratch,” she adds. “Emme and I call this her ‘special cream’ and it immediately calms itchy skin and soothes irritations and helps to prevent scarring.”
And for Kate’s glowing skin? She uses the Glow Hydrating Oil morning and night and before an evening out for extra radiance but also on rubs residual on the ends of her hair for shine and smoothness. Other popular products include Stella Simone hair care sprays, “the Heat Protectant and Skip and Re-do are must for everyone and the Aqualime Sugar Body Scrubs sell out as quickly as they come in,” says Kate.
In addition to now being in the beauty business, Kate is an advocate of and passionate about transracial adoption, natural hair and skin care, and supporting other families in embracing their true selves. Whether you are touched by adoption, entrepreneurship, or stories of overcoming adversity, a conversation with Kate promises to inspire and inform.
For more information, follow Sweet Peach Tree on Instagram @sweetpeachtreemarket, on Facebook at SweetTreeMarketplace, or on TikTok at Sweetpeachtree.
Kate and Tim Shanahan of Wilmette with their daughters Dorie and Emme.
TIME FOR GIVING
Two Lake Bluff women are making it possible for North Shore residents to help Hurricane Helene victims, just in time for Thanksgiving.
BY MONICA KASS ROGERS THE NORTH SHORE WEEKEND
Beyond showing gratitude for family and friends, the opportunity to help those in desperate need makes Thanksgiving that much more meaningful.
This year, no one needs help more than the devasted Americans trying to recover in the wake of Hurricane Helene, which caused an estimated $250 billion worth of damage in the southeastern United States and left millions without power and water for weeks.
Two Lake Bluff women—with help from Darek Rosinski of Tykes & Hounds—are making it possible for North Shore residents to aid disaster victims in a hands-on way. A truck filled with goods most needed by North Carolina relief organizations will be heading to Asheville on December 9.
“When Darek heard me talk about the drive, he offered one of his trucks for us to use for the delivery, as well as the warehouse space to receive goods from anyone on the North Shore who wants to donate,” says Megan Jordan, who teamed with Terri Myles to launch the Hurricane Helene relief drive as soon as the pair learned of the devastation. “Darek is the kindest, most caring individual. We are so grateful to him for his generosity and to all of the other individuals in our community who are stepping up to donate items. We will also be bringing needed pediatric care supplies from a drive Pedia Trust physicians organized.”
The list of donations needed for the drive has also been updated.
“Initially, we were asking for clothing, but—with the exception of new winter coats, we are not accepting clothing donations anymore. Other items are needed more.”
Given the hundreds of decimated roads, downed bridges, tons of debris, and the fact that hundreds are camping out or living in shelters, there is an urgent need for chain saws, generators, propane tanks, fire pits (new or used) camping tents and gear, sleeping bags, and warm blankets. This updated list is coming directly from the Asheville Buncombe Community Christian Ministry (ABCCM), the relief consortium that will be receiving the truck load of donations that Jordan and Myles are collecting over the next few weeks. “They are also in need of paper goods,
and cleaning supplies. It’s such an amazing thing when communities come together to help our fellow countrymen,” adds Jordan, who also organized the North Shore’s Operation Outreach drive after Hurricane Katrina. “People really stepped up to help after Hurricane Katrina, and they are coming through now as well. I learned a lot from the first drive, which has helped me in organizing this one. “
One key lesson?
“The needs after each disaster are unique to the event, and evolve, with different things needed at different times, so you have to respond with that in mind,” she explains.
However, one thing has remained constant.
“We have so much bounty here on the North Shore,” notes Jordan. “Gathering what we can from afar to help these people who have nothing right now, is the least we can do.”
Those interested in donating items (see the full list below) for Hurricane Helene disaster reliefs should drop them off in the warehouse at 28401 N. Ballard Drive, Suite F, in Lake Forest before December 8. To request a donation pick-up or for more information, contact Megan Jordan at 847-533-2852. To support ABCCM’s additional relief efforts, visit abccm.org.
HOW YOU CAN HELP
According to Asheville Buncombe Community Christian Ministry (ABCCM), the following items are most in need:
• Generators
• Propane tanks (empty)
• Chain saws
• Fire pits (new or used)
• Camping tents and camping gear
• Sleeping bags and warm blankets
• New winter coats
• Paper goods and cleaning supplies
Megan Jordan, Darek Rosinski, Terri Miles PHOTOGRAPHY BY MONICA KASS ROGERS
HAND CRAFTED
One constant in this world of uncertainty is the role of quality alcoholic spirits in life’s celebrations. Regardless of the occasion, a well-crafted cocktail can embody the moment without a word. Most have a go-to, but the landscape of options is vast, ever-changing, and deserving of scrutiny. Ted Banick, former owner of Highwood’s Teddy O’Brian’s, is now on board with Vermont Spirits ( vermontspirits.com ), Vermont’s oldest craft distillery and New England’s finest purveyor of craft spirits. Established in 1999 and now located in Quechee Vermont, their dedication to smallbatch, hand-crafted spirits with locally sourced ingredients enables them to produce forest-to-bottle award-winning spirits capable of competing with much larger wellknown distilleries. After a successful 22-year run behind the bar, his affinity for the brands and the culture of the company led him to invest in the distillery. As a result, they are now available in Illinois and worth a sip or two.
The line of spirits includes:
Vermont Gold Vodka: Handmade from nature’s most eco-friendly ingredient—the sap of maple trees. The pure maple sap is fermented to preserve the unique characteristics of its sugars. It is distilled in a one-of-a-kind glass column still and blended with pure Vermont distilled water to create an exceptionally clean, uniquely American Vodka. It recently took third in the USA Today Best Craft Vodka reader’s choice competition.
No. 14 Bourbon: Named in honor of Vermont, the 14th state, No. 14 Bourbon unites two American classics: bourbon whiskey and Vermont maple syrup. The strength of the bourbon is softened by the sweetness of the maple, bringing out the subtle notes of cherry vanilla and oaky spice and broadening its appeal to a variety of palates. The result is a wonderfully smooth spirit with a warm lasting finish. Coppers American Gin: This gin is distilled with wild juniper berries, hand-picked in Northern Vermont. The coriander and angelica root build on this base, with
Coppers Sugarwood Gin: A Vermont expression of this classic spirit using handpicked local juniper berries, orange peel, and green tea in the distillation and finished with a light touch of maple for a smooth, lasting finish.
Coppers Barrel Aged Gin: Aged in used bourbon barrels to create one of the most distinctive, yet versatile, spirits available anywhere. The years of barrel aging in the Vermont climate mellows this gin to create a whiskey-like spirit with a slight nose of juniper, mid-palate warmth, and an unexpectedly smooth finish. Truly a gin for whiskey lovers.
Although many popular brands employ celebrities as ambassadors, as an emerging brand in the Midwest, Vermont Spirits relies on the quality of the product and the endorsements of faithful drinkers to spread the word and build the brand. As a former bar owner, Banick, notes how impactful suggestions from regular patrons are. They truly help determine what sits on the back bar and on the shelf at your local liquor store.
The No. 14 Bourbon and select other brands are available at many local restaurants and retailers including select Binny’s Beverage Depots as well as independent retailers including Sunset Foods in Highland Park, Jerry’s Liquors in Highwood, and Courtyard Wines in Lake Forest. Don’t let the holiday season pass without showing how much you care by giving your favorite people a small slice of Vermont in a bottle.
For more information, product samplings, private events or to introduce product to your favorite bar, restaurant or liquor store, contact Ted Banick via email at ted@vermontspirits.com.
cassia, orange peel, and cardamom pods rounding out the body to form a unique, American-style Gin.
With Gratitude from The Shore Group at Compass!
This Thanksgiving, we’re beyond thankful for all of our amazing clients and the chance to help you find the perfect place to call home. If you’re dreaming of a new spot to gather, celebrate, and make memories, we’re here to make it happen! Whether you’re looking to buy, sell, or invest, our dedicated team is here to guide you every step of the way.
ELLEN CHUKERMAN
ellen.chukerman@compass.com 847.507.5086
AIMEE GLOVSKY
BETH ALBERTS
beth.alberts@compass.com 773.991.2560
REBECCA GILBERG
aimee.glovsky@compass.com 312.933.7762 MADA HITCHMOUGH
mada.hitchmough@compass.com 847.732.2970
From Left to Right: Ellen Chukerman, Rebecca Gilberg, Aimee Glovsky, Beth Alberts, and Mada Hitchmough
EDITED BY REDDING WORTH ILLUSTRATION BY TOM BACHTELL
PAULA CARBALLIDO is a beacon of dedication in our community, passionately advancing numerous causes through her work with Mosaic House Ministries, the Exchange Club, and the Rotary Club. In the spirit of giving thanks for those around us, we highlight Paula’s most cherished endeavor—the Lake County Honor Flight. Her journey began in 2011 when she deepened her Exchange Club's connection with the WWII Black Navy Veterans of Great Lakes by orchestrating a trip to Washington, D.C., where they visited the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial and other historic landmarks. This meaningful experience laid the groundwork for a similar “honor flighttype” journey in 2012 for six local veterans, eventually leading Carballido to establish an honor flight hub in North Chicago. Since the inaugural Lake County Honor Flight in 2013, more than 500 local veterans have been honored with a multi-day trip to Washington, D.C., where they visit the memorials that pay tribute to their service and sacrifices. Amidst her numerous charitable pursuits, Carballido shares how she stays current.
#ON MY NIGHTSTAND
On my nightstand, you'll find a box labeled ‘SFGTD,’ which stands for “Something for God to do.” This practice was shared with me years ago by a stranger as a way to manage worry and anxiety. I write down my concerns and place them in the box, symbolically handing them over to God. This allows me to sleep peacefully. Some items remain in the box for days, others for years. It’s remarkable to witness how these prayers are answered over time, bringing me comfort and peace.
#ON MY MOBILE
On my mobile device, I use the Echo app. It serves as a digital journal where I record stories shared with me, prayers, topics to discuss with my therapist, and anything else that catches my interest—be it humorous, educational, or worthy of gratitude.
#IN MY EARBUDS
My earbuds connect me to a carefully curated playlist that adapts to my various needs. It's divided into three sections—a motivational playlist for when I need to conquer challenges, a Spanish music playlist that keeps me connected to my cultural roots, and a worship playlist for times when I need a boost of hope and spiritual connection. This mix allows me to tailor my listening experience to my emotional and spiritual needs at any given moment.
Now in Our New North Shore Location
City of Hope® is a national network of more than 1,600 cancer specialists working toward breakthrough discoveries that impact over 100 million lives each year – personalizing treatment right down to a patient’s DNA.
Now that City of Hope has expanded to Illinois, including our newest North Shore location in Morton Grove as of November 2024, we’re proud to be part of a team that is revolutionizing cancer care here in the Chicagoland area – but what we’re most proud of is giving you hope.
In addition to our new North Shore location, City of Hope is also serving the Chicago area with locations in Lake County and Downtown Chicago. Appointments are available in as little as 24 hours. cityofhope.org • 847-857-6216
CRANBERRY ORANGE CURD
BY MONICA KASS ROGERS FOOD EDITOR THE NORTH SHORE WEEKEND
It’s cranberry season and this delicious spread, brightened with citrus and rich with butter, is perfect for the holidays. A nice alternative to lemon curd, we love it on toast, waffles, or scones. But you can also fill tiny paté sucrée tartlets with it for a dessert treat. To make the curd, you’ll first boil the cranberries in water, and then reduce the collected juice combined with orange and lemon to make an unsweetened syrup. Whisking this with sugar and egg yolks in a pot nested over a second pot of boiling water, you’ll soon have 3 cups of beautiful cranberry orange curd—enough for the family that’s gathered, and to gift to friends. Happy Thanksgiving!
MAKES 3 CUPS
CRANBERRY ORANGE CURD
INGREDIENTS
• 4 cups fresh uncooked cranberries
• 2 cups water
• Zest and juice from 1 lemon and 2 oranges
• 3 sticks (1 ½ cups) butter, cubed
• 2 cups sugar
• 8 large egg yolks
METHOD
MAKE CRANBERRY JUICE: Add 2 cups water and 4 cups cranberries to a large pot over medium high heat. Boil cranberries, slightly covered, until cooked through and soft, (about 10 minutes.) Remove from heat. Pour mixture into a strainer over a bowl to collect the juice. Discard berries and set juice aside.
PREP CITRUS: Wash oranges and lemon. Using a fine grater, zest the outside of the oranges and lemon into a bowl, being careful not to include the white pith as you grate. Set zest aside.
Slice citrus in half and squeeze juice through a strainer into the bowl with the zest.
REDUCE JUICES: Pour cranberry juice, citrus juices, and zest into a medium-sized pot over medium heat. Take care to use a large enough pot as the liquids will bubble up as they reduce. Boil the juice over medium heat until the juices have reduced to ½ cup, occasionally scraping sides of pot to push zest back into liquid. Pour reduced juice through a fine strainer into a bowl. Discard the zest.
MAKE CRANBERRY ORANGE CURD: Separate yolks from eight large eggs. (Refrigerate the whites for another use.) Boil several cups of water and pour into a large pot, filling the bottom several inches. Nest a medium-sized pot
into the larger sized pot, taking care to ensure that the bottom of the top pot isn’t in direct contact with the boiling water in the bottom pot. Set heat to medium high. In the top pot, add the butter, the ½ cup reduced juice, and the sugar. As the butter and sugar melt, whisk the mixture until smooth. Add the egg yolks and whisk vigorously for 7 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly and thickly coats a spoon. It will thicken more as it cools. Pour cranberry orange curd into glass jars and cool to room temperature. Cover with lids or plastic wrap and refrigerate. Serve on toast, waffles, scones, or pancakes, or use as a filling for tiny tartlets.
NORTH SHORE FOODIE
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MONICA KASS ROGERS
EDUCATE AND EMPOWER
BY BILL MCLEAN ILLUSTRATION BY BARRY BLITT
Highland Park native and Pleasant Ridge School fifth-grade teacher Mandy Kirsch knows there’s more to her profession than teaching the ABCs.
as a teacher’s aide at Indian Trail Elementary School in Highland Park.
At the beginning of each day at Pleasant Ridge School in Glenview, students gather in groups for 30 minutes and either play games ranging from cards to tabletop pool or solve jigsaw puzzles.
The half hour is called “soft start.”
A student in Mandy Kirsch’s fifth-grade class grew frustrated as other students fit jigsaw-puzzle pieces together and he could not. Days later, with the puzzle nearly complete, a student handed the final piece to the unhappy boy.
The boy placed it where it belonged. Cheers broke out. Triumphant arms went up. Raise your hand if you thought only reading, writing, and arithmetic occur in schools.
“I smiled,” Kirsch, a Highland Park native and mother of three, recalls. “That jigsawpuzzle moment made me realize everything we’re doing as teachers is paying off. Academics will always be important, but so are acts of kindness, displays of empathy, and taking pride in others’ accomplishments.
“Half my job,” she adds, “is teaching content. The other half is helping students develop into good people who recognize selfworth and adapt to change. Communities with people who have those qualities become stronger ones.”
Kirsch, 49, is in her 13th year at Pleasant Ridge School. She had taught fourth-graders at the diverse elementary school during the previous 12 years, following stints as a gradeschool teacher at Garden Hills Academy in Champaign and at West School in Glencoe.
“I thought I wanted to be an immigration lawyer,” says Kirsch, who graduated from Highland Park High School in 1993 and majored in Political Science and Spanish at Colgate University. “I applied to Northwestern University’s law school and was deferred for two years, which ended up being the biggest favor.”
Her future mother-in-law, Mindy, was a local teacher. Kirsch spent time observing Mindy in a classroom setting at the start of the 1997-1998 school year and later served
“I helped Mindy with grading and bulletin boards,” Kirsch says.
“She gave me good advice. I was based in the library at Indian Trail, helping teach ers and getting valuable handson experiences. I’d worked briefly in PR in Chicago and knew almost immedi ately that it wasn’t for me. I hated being in an office.
in Highland Park and were major influences at the outset of Mandy’s pivot to teaching. Jim is a lawyer and Martha is a Realtor.
“My dad’s work ethic has always been strong,” says Kirsch. “He likes to say, ‘Don’t tell me what you want to be in the future, tell me where you want to be now.’ And my mom has instilled in me the importance of having a sense of community.”
Mr. Michael Rosenzweig was Kirsch’s favorite teacher at Highland Park HS. He taught AP European
Half my job is teaching content. The other half is helping students develop into good people who recognize self-worth and adapt to change. John Conatser
“I loved learning.”
A talk with her second cousin, the late movie critic Gene Siskel, doubled as a nudge to the career path Kirsch ultimately chose.
“He told me, ‘Try things out and see where they take you,’” says Kirsch, who, while working at Indian Trail, earned her master’s degree in Education at National Louis University in Evanston.
History and espoused an approach to teaching that Kirsch emulates today.
“He challenged us and wanted to hear our voice and our opinions,” says Kirsch, who’s on the 2024-2025 Creative Writing committee for Highland Park High School’s biennial “Focus on the Arts. “I always want to hear my students’ voices. The debate-like conversations in Mr. Rosenzweig’s class were exciting.”
Kirsch was shy and quiet back in her fifth-grade days. The fine arts offerings at HPHS—choir and dancing, among others— helped shed her shell.
Her fifth-graders at Pleasant Ridge today?
“They’re fun and funny and spirited,” Kirsch says. “They’re also social and they have that eagerness to learn. They crave structure and engagement.”
Six years ago, Kirsch was one of six teachers to participate in a Flexible Learning Space pilot program in Glenview School District 34. Not all students, the program sought to determine, learn best by sitting in the same chair and listening to the teacher at the front of the classroom.
“Where students sit, and how they sit, in a classroom can have an impact on how productive they are and on how they take in information and engage,” Kirsch says. “Sometimes it's helpful to move around. A boy in my class likes to sprawl across the floor like a bear rug; he’s comfortable learning in that position.
“I like to empower my students to explore ways that help them become the best students they can be in a comfortable and safe classroom.”
Kirsch lives in Highland Park with her husband of 24 years, Bryan. They have three children—daughters Molly, 21, and Sam, 18; and son Charlie, 14. In her free time, Mrs. Kirsch likes to refinish furniture, take walks with friends, play pickleball, and read.
But nothing energizes her more than time spent at Pleasant Ridge School, be it in the hallways between classes or in the classroom with her 26 students.
“The challenges and rewards of teaching are linked,” Kirsch says. “I’m very passionate about my profession. I, like many teachers on the North Shore, consistently advocate for students, mentor colleagues, and collaborate with outside professionals and families to ensure success and the well-being of children in our communities. Watching students thrive and become good citizens thrills me.
“It is time,” she continues, “that educators are valued as powerful members in communities.”
