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Honoring the legacy of Joyce Piven:
A Visionary Leader Who Shaped Generations of Artists
Joyce Piven is the beating heart of Piven Theatre Workshop. She was a visionary artist, educator, actor, and director who profoundly impacted generations of performers and storytellers. As the co-founder of Piven Theatre Workshop with her late husband Byrne, she had a profound impact on the shaping of Chicago theatre as we know it today. She created a space where creativity, collaboration, and empathy flourished, fostering the talents of countless students who went on to shape the world of theatre, film, and television. Joyce’s ground breaking work in improvisation and ensemble-based techniques lives on in her many students, including her children, Shira Piven and Jeremy Piven.
The theatre that she and Byrne created was housed in a repurposed public school, the Noyes Cultural Arts Center in Evanston. We are still there. An idiosyncratic space, like so many blackbox theatres in Chicago. There they lead, taught, and encouraged countless artists such as Joan Cusack, John Cusack, Anne Cusack, Lecy Goranson, Harry Lennix, Lily Taylor, Jonathan Turley, Sarah Ruhl, Aidan Quinn, Kate Walsh and the list goes on and on. She had a unique ability to bring to the surface the talents of others.
We remember Joyce, not just as a pioneer in the world of theatre, but as a guide who nurtured the hearts and minds of countless artists. Her legacy will continue to shape the future of theatre for generations to come.
The Piven Theatre Workshop is the place where I began my lifelong love of theatre. It was the catalyst for my journey into acting and remains today one of my most treasured spaces. Joyce was my teacher, mentor and friend. Now, as President of the Board of Directors, I serve them as they have served me in life. – Glo Rolighed 847-452-7480 | glo@atproperties.com
SCAN HERE to support the Joyce
Piven Memorial Fund
Mike Golden & Thad Wong
MARCH 2025
FEATURES
CUTTING-EDGE CONSERVATION
Field Museum scientists are leading the way in protecting the world’s great rainforests.
HOPE & ACTION
National Geographic’s Preserving Legacies’ Victoria Herrmann safeguards threatened cultural heritage sites.
NATURAL PROGRESSION
From rock band drummer to corporate sustainability officer, Dorothea Emery-Duenow has drawn upon the lessons of a childhood spent playing in nature.
SURF, SAND, AND STYLE: SPRING FASHION UNVEILED
As spring awakens along the tranquil shores of Lake Michigan, the shoreline’s wild beauty is a dramatic backdrop to a symphony of flowing fabrics, vibrant hues, and graceful silhouettes celebrating the season of renewal.
& ARTS
& CUISINE
Breck Gambill and Gina Magro of Select Model Management showcasing spring fashions featured in Surf, Sand, and Style: Spring Fashion Unveiled. Breck is wearing silk blouse with belled Chloé Jean, JACQUEMUS bag, Ray-Ban sunglasses, Neiman Marcus Michigan Avenue. Gina is wearing Lapointe low v-neck blouse, Missoni slitted skirt, Ray-Ban sunglasses, Neiman Marcus Michigan Avenue. Photography by Adam Mayer/Styling by Theresa DeMaria/Hair & Makeup by Leanna Ernest
Petra, Jordan, 1998 – Tombs carved into the sandstone.
Photo by Annie Griffiths/National Geographic. Petra is one of the sites being protected by National Geographic’s Preserving Legacies featured in Hope & Action
Founder & Publisher
Editor-in-Chief
Associate Publisher
Executive Director of Operations
Contributing Editors
Style Director
Style Editor
Contributing Writers
Art Director
Production Manager/ Graphic Designer
Senior Graphic Designer
Graphic Designer
Contributing Photographers
Contributing Illustrator
Social Media Director
Advertising Sales Advisory Council
J.W. CONATSER
DUSTIN O’REGAN
JENNIFER STURGEON
KEMMIE RYAN
MORGAN HOGERTY, MEGAN WEISBERG
THERESA DEMARIA
ALLISON MELONE
THOMAS CONNORS, MONICA KASS ROGERS, JOE ROSENTHAL
JORDAN WILLIAMS
LINDA LEWIS
AMIN QUTTEINEH
ABDON LOERA, SAM SUAREZ
ADAM MAYER, MARIA PONCE, MONICA KASS ROGERS, KATRINA WITTKAMP
ROBERT RISKO
REDDING WORTH
GRETCHEN BARNARD
RAHEELA ANWAR, EILEEN BENNIN, RENEE CROWN, JEFFREY EISERMAN, MAUREEN GRINNELL, DANA HUGHES, JOYCE BRUCE JIARAS, JILL KATZ, LEXIE KNOX, YOANNA KULAS, ARTHUR MILLER, MEREDITH MITCHELL, SANDRA CASPARRIELLO, RONI MOORE NEUMANN, IBBY PINSKY, MONIQUE WATTS, AND REDDING WORTH
This month we celebrate spring’s arrival with a salute to environmental stewards and a seasonal fashion spread. Our features begin with Nigel Pitman and Lesley de Souza, a husband-and-wife team of Field Museum scientists who recently returned from a groundbreaking research expedition in the Amazon. The worldwide impact of their fieldwork is fascinating. Our second feature takes us behind the scenes with National Geographic’s Victoria Herrmann, who sheds light on the organization’s vital work protecting cultural landmarks from the growing impact of weather pattern changes.
Our third feature spotlights Highland Park’s Dorothea Emery-Duenow, Director of Corporate Sustainability at UL Solutions. Headquartered in Northbrook, this global, independent safety science company boasts over a century of expertise in pioneering safety innovations. We wrap up the features with a stunning fashion shoot on the shores of Lake Michigan. One afternoon Cheryl Berman and I were lunching in her Wilmette beach house when she offered her property for a photoshoot—my response, “How about next week?” Over the next 10 days, we assembled a talented team and then spent a fun day capturing spring’s most beautiful lakeside looks. (Keep an eye out for a story about Cheryl—an advertising guru—in Sheridan Road ’s June issue).
Swapping spring looks for paintbrushes, Art & Artist highlights Hector Hernandez and his inspiring artwork. Interested in honing your artistic skills? Book a class with Hector at his Lake Forest studio.
Continuing the artistic thread, Trending features Ana Kane, an artist who draws inspiration from her Mexican heritage and the natural beauty surrounding her Wilmette home.
Ready for an adventure? Pack your bags for Cameron House Hotel on the shores of Scotland’s Loch Lomond and traverse the Scottish landscape in 4x4s, yachts, and planes—a bonnie good time. Or perhaps you are looking for a cozy meal close to home? Dinner Date highlights Ballyhoo Hospitality’s newest venture, DeNucci’s of Highland Park. Like its sister restaurants, Sophia Steak and Pomeroy, this Italian American restaurant is sure to become a North Shore favorite. Heading to Winnetka, Home Tour showcases Lj Savarie’s stunning transformation of a historic
Tudor into a modern, comfortable home that retains its timeless charm.
Christopher Howe, President of Corpus Christi College at University of Cambridge, shares his electrifying algae research in Parting Words. This fall, I visited my dear friends Shawn Donnelley and Christopher Kelly, Master of Corpus Christi College at University of Cambridge. One extraordinary evening, Shawn and I shared a High Table Dinner at Cambridge with Chris Howe whose enthusiasm for his research was so exhilarating that I had to share it with you.
In Scotland on 4x4 Adventure’s guided tour of the Highlands with Iain Braithwaite and Ross McKinnon. See First Class to read all about my journey through Scotland.
Chicago Botanic Garden’s The Orchid Show: India Blooms
MUSIC MATTERS
MAY 17, 2025 • 5:00 PM
Cocktails | Auction | Dinner | Live Music
SUPPORT MUSIC EDUCATION
All proceeds benefit Ravinia and its Reach Teach Play programs, which directly serve over 20,000 students annually in Lake and Cook Counties.
FINDS, OPINIONS, OBSESSIONS
The Chicago Botanic Garden’s “The Orchid Show: India Blooms” explores the vibrancy of India through blooming displays that echo the country’s diverse regions, landscapes, people, and cultures. Look for a blooming peacock, a colossal banyan tree, and 10,000 orchid blooms all inspired by the beauty of India. The Show transports you to a place where India’s rich cultures are felt in every bloom. The show is featured in Agenda and runs through March 23.
AGENDA
SAVE the DATE
Sheridan Road provides the North Shore’s comprehensive social calendar.
EDITED BY DUSTIN O’REGAN
THROUGH MARCH 23
THE ORCHID SHOW
INDIA BLOOMS
WHERE: Chicago Botanic Garden
The Orchid Show explores the vibrancy of India through blooming displays that echo the country’s diverse regions, landscapes, people, and cultures. Look for a blooming peacock, a colossal banyan tree, and 10,000 orchid blooms all inspired by the beauty of India. The Show transports you to a place where India’s rich cultures are felt in every bloom. chicagobotanic.org
THROUGH APRIL 5
POSTMEMORY
WHERE: The Art Center
Highland Park
Postmemory describes how the “next generation” relates to the personal, collective, and cultural trauma of their predecessors. Nicole Gordon’s latest body of work is inspired by intimate interviews of her family history of immigration and assimilation from Eastern Europe to South Africa, Cuba, and ultimately to the United States. These stories, while at times rife with displacement and emotional upheaval are ultimately filled with hope, aspiration, resilience, and pride. theartcenterhp.org
MARCH 6
HUMANITARIAN
AWARDS DINNER
WHERE: Hyatt Regency
Chicago
The Illinois Holocaust Museum and Education Center hosts Chicago’s largest gathering of Holocaust Survivors and
civic and business leaders. The Museum will commemorate the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II and the Holocaust at the 2025 Humanitarian Awards Dinner. Honorees are Ann and James Goodman and Sidley Austin, and the guest speaker is General David H. Petraeus. ilholocaustmuseum.org/ humanitarian-awards-dinner/
MARCH 14 – 23
15TH ANNUAL
WINNING WORKS
WHERE: MCA’s Edlis Neeson Theater
The Grainger Academy of The Joffrey Ballet presents five world premieres in the culmination of a national call for ALAANA (African, Latinx, Asian, Arab, and Native American) artists to submit applications for the Winning Works Choreographic Competition. This year’s winners—Karley Childress, Roderick George, Shota Miyoshi, Alejandro Perez, and Keelan Whitmore—each will choreograph an original work created for the Grainger Academy of The Joffrey Ballet Conservatory, Trainees, and Joffrey Studio Company. Winning Works will be presented in nine performances. joffrey.org
MARCH 15
BRUSHES WITH CANCER
WHERE: Writers Theatre, Glencoe Twist Out Cancer hosts its Brushes with Cancer Art Exhibition and Celebration where guests will have the opportunity to view 20 pieces of unique art that are reflective of personal journeys with cancer. Guests
will also enjoy food, drinks, music, and dancing. Twist Out Cancer provides psychosocial support to cancer survivors and their loved ones through creative arts programming. twistoutcancer.org
MARCH 15 – APRIL 12
LA BOHÈME
WHERE: Lyric Opera of Chicago
Puccini brings unique beauty and sensitivity to this tale of young lovers in 19th-century Paris. With the famous arias of the ardent poet Rodolfo, the fragile seamstress Mimì, and the good-hearted party-girl Musetta, matched perfectly to the romance and heartbreak of this universal story, La Bohème is operatic perfection. Two dazzling sopranos, Ailyn Pérez and Gabriella Reyes, are paired with the shining-voiced tenor Pene Pati (in his Lyric debut) and the vibrant baritone Will Liverman, in a production that will be a truly memorable moment in the company’s longstanding tradition of great La Bohème performances. lyricopera.org
MARCH 15
THE ROARING TWENTIES GALA
WHERE: Cuneo Mansion, Vernon Hills
Join the Midwest Young Artists Conservatory at its annual gala at an historic mansion and enjoy a gourmet dinner, silent auction, live music, and dancing! Proceeds support the transformative music education opportunities provided by MYAC, including need-based financial aid and scholarships,
enriching the lives of students and the community. mya.org
MARCH 30 – APRIL 11
THE LISTENERS
WHERE: Lyric Opera of Chicago
Lyric Opera of Chicago presents The Listeners, expected to be one of the most significant operatic events of the 2024/25 Season. Missy Mazzoli and Royce Vavrek, the renowned composer/librettist team, tell the story of Claire, who is driven nearly mad by an unending, low-frequency hum that she hears. In desperation, she joins a community organization, “The Listeners,” formed to discover the origin of the noise and destroy it. The group becomes frighteningly cult-like, ultimately leading to catastrophic consequences. Lyric’s vocally and dramatically brilliant cast will be conducted by Music Director Enrique Mazzola and directed by one of the most gifted theater artists of her generation, Lileana Blain-Cruz. lyricopera.org
APRIL 3
CHAMPAGNE & SHOPPING
WHERE: North Shore Exchange, Glencoe North Shore Exchange welcomes spring with an elegant evening of designer fashion and styling. Join fellow fashion enthusiasts for an exclusive preview of new-in luxury pieces complemented by refreshments and personalized styling guidance. As the North Shore’s premier luxury resale destination, North Shore Exchange pairs exceptional fashion with
AGENDA
purpose, directing 100 percent of the organization’s profits to selected Chicagoland charities. northshoreexchange.com
APRIL 3 – MAY 4
TRANSLATIONS
WHERE: Writers Theatre
In 1833, life in County Donegal, Ireland, follows a timeless rhythm. Irish-speaking youths gather at the hedge school, where their verbose schoolmaster teaches Latin and Greek. This calm is upended when the schoolmaster’s son returns with British soldiers tasked with mapping the land and anglicizing place names. Political, cultural, and personal tensions ignite, transforming this quiet community. A revered Irish classic, Translations celebrates language’s power to spark love, fuel conflict, and forge understanding. writerstheatre.org
APRIL 4
PAWS CHICAGO
ANIMAL MAGNETISM
WHERE: Morgan
Manufacturing, Chicago
Hosted by the PAWS Chicago Professional Board, Animal Magnetism welcomes more than 700 of Chicago’s urban
professionals, animal lovers, and their canine companions for a night of food, drinks, dancing, entertainment, a fabulous silent auction, and more! Funds raised will help PAWS Chicago save the lives of countless homeless dogs and cats. pawschicago.org/ animalmagnetism
APRIL 11
PAWS FOR A CAUSE BENEFIT
WHERE: Pinstripes, Northbrook
Paws for Patrick hosts its third annual benefit with an open bar, heavy hors d’oeuvres, and music from The Modern Day Romeos. During the event, you will have the opportunity to bid on both live and silent auctions with exciting items and experiences. All proceeds support Paws for Patrick’s mission to improve the mental health of young people through the emotional support of animals. pawsforpatrick.org
APRIL 24
WINGS BLOSSOM FASHION SHOW
WHERE: 21c Museum Hotel, Chicago Nigel Barker returns to cele-
brate WINGS’ 2nd annual BLOSSOM Fashion Show honoring Whitney Reynolds and featuring designs by Janet Mandell. Proceeds support survivors of domestic violence. wingsprogram.com
APRIL 24
VERNISSAGE
CHAMPAGNE BRUNCH
WHERE: Festival Hall, Navy Pier
The Women’s Board of the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago hosts Vernissage, the opening day benefit of EXPO CHICAGO. Enjoy a champagne brunch, complimentary cocktails, and special early access to EXPO CHICAGO, which presents artwork from more than 170 leading galleries across the world. Tickets also include access to the fair from April 24 – April 27. mcachicago.org
APRIL 24 – APRIL 27
EXPO CHICAGO
WHERE: Navy Pier Festival Hall
The International Exposition of Contemporary & Modern Art features leading international galleries alongside the highest quality platform for
contemporary art and culture. This year EXPO CHICAGO will host the 12th edition of the in-person exhibition. The exposition draws upon the city’s rich history as a vibrant and international cultural destination while engaging the region’s contemporary art community and collector base. expochicago.com
APRIL 26 – MAY 25
(TUESDAYS THROUGH SUNDAYS) THE LAKE FOREST
SHOWHOUSE & GARDENS
WHERE: Guests arrive via free shuttle service from downtown Lake Forest
Forty-five interior and landscape designers will transform a limestone, Georgian-style, 30-room Lake Forest estate set on 3.5 acres for the 20th production of the Lake Forest Showhouse & Gardens. Originally built in 1895, the home was historically known as Pembroke Lodge and includes a pool house and pool designed by David Adler in 1935, a tennis court with a warming hut, and a reflecting pond with English walled gardens. lakeforestshowhouse.com
EXPO CHICAGO April 24 – 27.
Photography by Evan Jenkins
NEWSWORTHY
CONCORSO ROMA
The inaugural Anantara Concorso Roma is a world-class automotive “spectacle” in the heart of Rome, celebrating Italian automotive artistry, culture, and luxury. The new car exhibition hosted by Anantara Hotels & Resorts in April will showcase the rarest Automobili Italiane from across the globe, featuring iconic marques like Alfa Romeo, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, and Bugatti. Available VIP packages include the Pacchetto Tiberius Package, which combines a two-night stay at Anantara Palazzo Naiadi Rome, a 19th-century marble palace, with several VIP experiences including transfers to the Concorso event location at Rome’s neoclassical masterpiece Casina Valadier located in the gardens of the Villa Borghese. Register now to experience the spirit of Italian automotive heritage and Roman indulgence. For more information about schedules and full packages, visit anantaraconsorsoroma.com/en.
NATURAL BEAUTY THE PICTURE-PERFECT SIP
For more than 50 years, Biologique Recherche has pioneered a revolutionary approach to skincare, blending cutting-edge science, potent formulations, and bespoke treatments that deliver both immediate and lasting results. Crafted in its French laboratories, Biologique Recherche’s extensive skincare line features highly concentrated botanical, marine, and biological active ingredients, free from artificial fragrances. Lake Forest’s Magdalena European Med Spa proudly partners with Biologique Recherche, offering the complete product line alongside professional treatments, including the state-of-the-art Remodeling Face Machine. For more information, visit magdalenamedspa.com
Wine, like photography, is both deeply personal and universally resonant. Andy Katz, celebrated as one of his generation’s greatest photographers, traveled the world with his son Jesse. Over the years, they both benefited from an international wine education. Now, Aperture Vineyards & Winery brings their talents together—Jesse crafts critically acclaimed wines, while Andy’s imagery captures their essence. Aperture highlights Bordeaux varieties produced in the cooler pockets of Sonoma, where warm, sunny days and brisk nights ensure that every bottle bursts with freshness, no matter how generous the fruit making. Jesse’s cool-climate Bordeaux varietals reflect two decades of learning from the best producers in the world including Pétrus and Screaming Eagle. Father and son invite you to experience a sensory masterpiece with Aperture’s range of expressive Bordeaux-style wines from Sonoma County. For more information, visit aperture-cellars.com.
WARNER INSTITUTE
WELCOME DR. KRISHNA PATEL
TO WARNER INSTITUTE
Warner Aesthetic & Reconstructive Institute is proud to welcome Dr. Krishna Patel, a highly skilled and compassionate plastic surgeon dedicated to helping patients achieve their aesthetic goals by enhancing natural beauty and restoring youthful confidence. With years of rigorous general and plastic surgery training at prestigious institutions, including Tufts Medical Center in Boston and the University of Illinois in Chicago, as well as specialized training in aesthetic surgery through a dedicated fellowship, Dr. Patel brings a wealth of expertise to The Warner Institute.
COMPREHENSIVE EXPERTISE IN BODY, BREAST, AND FACIAL PROCEDURES
Dr. Patel offers a comprehensive range of sophisticated plastic surgery procedures, with extensive experience in:
• BODY CONTOURING: Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck), Arm Lift, Thigh Lift, Liposuction and Liposculpture, Fat Grafting (Hip Dips, Buttocks, Breast) -- Achieve a sculpted silhouette with natural looking results. A special focus on body contouring after significant weight loss including surgery and Semaglutide treatments.
• SURGERY AFTER WEIGHT LOSS: Whole body sculpting procedures to address excess loose skin for patients who have had significant weight loss from surgery, medications such as Ozempic®/ Semaglutide or other weight loss methods.
• BREAST ENHANCEMENT: Breast Augmentation, Breast Lift -- Enhance your natural curves with customized techniques that emphasize subtle elegance and balance.
• FACIAL REJUVENATION: Upper and Lower Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery), Rhinoplasty, Facelift, Necklift, Browlift -- restore a youthful and refreshed appearance with minimally invasive techniques that preserve your unique features.
SCHEDULE YOUR CONSULTATION TODAY
Take the first step towards achieving your aesthetic goals. Call 847-558-8888 to schedule your consultation with Dr. Krishna Patel at Warner Aesthetic & Reconstructive Institute.
DR. KRISHNA PATEL, DR. JEREMY WARNER
EDITED BY DUSTIN O’REGAN
SHORE CITY
After more than a decade as Director of Marketing for two of Chicago’s premier restaurant groups, Lindsay Goldberg moved to Glencoe with her family in 2021 and reimagined her role in the culinary world. What started as offering guidance to contacts in her network quickly evolved into the launch of her company LRG MKTG. Today, Goldberg produces events spanning every format imaginable— from intimate chef dinners and multi-restaurant tastings to nonprofit galas and high-profile brand activations. Her recent portfolio includes Grubhub’s 20th-anniversary Food Festival, Culinary Care’s Gourmand Gala, and Capital One x James Beard Foundation’s national dining series “A Taste of the James Beard Awards.” At the heart of Goldberg’s success is her ability to create meaningful connections between brands and talent and craft experiences that resonate long after the last plate is cleared. Goldberg takes a break from event production to share her city and shore favorites with Sheridan Road
EDITED BY MORGAN HOGERTY PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARIA PONCE STYLING BY THERESA
DEMARIA HAIR & MAKEUP
BY
LEANNA ERNEST
What’s on the horizon? Kicking off 2025 event planning with new and returning clients, focusing on business development, and soaking up the final months of school with the kids Mantra? How you do anything is how you do everything Best grooming tip? Book appointments for the year so you don’t fall behind Guilty pleasure? MTV’s The Challenge Favorite foods? Oversized BYO salads and omelets Music you love? Taylor Swift. I’m proud to be an OG Swiftie Best advice ever given to you? If it doesn’t fill your bucket or bring you joy, say no Best advice you’ve given? Take the advice you’d give to your best friend Earliest memory? Beach days with my parents When you wake up,
Aspen, CO
you? Snuggle in bed with my kids Before bed, you? Sweep the kitchen and wipe down the countertops What’s on your bookshelf? The Wedding People You can’t live without? A sweat-filled workout and my therapist Love to escape to? Florida to see my parents and childhood friends; New York and London to visit my sisters and their families; Aspen in the summer—it’s our happy place Advice you would give to your younger self? Be kind to yourself
ON THE SHORE IN THE CITY
Your style is? Athleisure. I’m usually going from a workout to calls to carpool Can’t leave the house without? Iced coffee Transportation? Kia Telluride aka “The Telly” (per my son) Driving music? SiriusXM The Highway, Taylor Swift, Kidz Bop Place to eat? EJ’s Place, Psistaria, AO Sushi, Kaufman’s Deli Shop? LuxLab for great basics and special pieces; ZARA for the kids Best thing about the Shore? The community. Our friends have become family and my in-laws live minutes away Worst thing about the Shore? The parking in downtown Glencoe The perfect day is? A hard workout followed by a lazy day at home, then a fun dinner with friends
Your style is? Jeans, leather jacket, boots. I like outfits that can go from work to fun Can’t leave the house without? Snacks. A lot of them Transportation? Metra or car Driving music? I usually use the time to call family or friends; otherwise, it’s Taylor Place to eat? KAI ZAN, Monteverde Chicago, avec, Daisies, La Serre; Beatrix, or La Colombe for coffee Shop? Credo Beauty, Reformation, Aritzia Best thing about the City? The culinary scene Worst thing about the City? Some of my favorite places are now closed The perfect day is? Checking out a new restaurant opening or a special event like the Windy City Smokeout—great food, great people, great music—what could be better?
Beatrix Fulton Market
Lindsay Goldberg wearing L’Agence blouse and pant, Neiman Marcus Northbrook
UNDERSTANDING DIVORCE: OFFERING EMPATHY OVER JUDGMENT
WORDS BY MICHONE J. RIEWER PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATRINA WITTKAMP STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA
Michone J. Riewer
No one enters marriage expecting it to end. No one dreams of making the painful decision to divorce. Yet, for many, life doesn’t go according to plan. Marriages sometimes fail, often for reasons that aren’t visible to the outside world. As a divorce attorney, I see this pain up close. Unfortunately, those going through divorce often face not only personal heartbreak but also judgment from others.
Here’s an important truth: People marry with the best of intentions. They hope for a lifetime together. When someone seeks legal advice about divorce, it’s never a decision they’ve made lightly. In most cases, they’ve spent years trying to save their relationship. Despite their efforts, they have reached a point where, to envision a happier future, they feel they must let go of the marriage.
Divorce is never as simple as it seems. Often, clients will give surface reasons at first, such as growing apart or falling out of love. But as their story unfolds, deeper struggles emerge—trauma, neglect, or years of emotional abuse. I’ve had clients who initially mentioned minor complaints, only to later reveal they’d endured tremendous pain for decades. Please don’t judge someone’s stated reasons for divorce.
In my experience, nearly all my clients have worked hard to avoid this outcome. They’ve tried counseling, self-help strategies, and heart-to-heart discussions. Divorce, for most, is a last resort. It’s a difficult and frightening step, but one they feel is necessary to move forward.
What makes this journey even harder is the criticism people often face. Divorce is already an emotional and financial challenge. The last thing anyone needs is more guilt or shame. As a community, we can do better. Please offer support and compassion to friends, family, and colleagues going through this process.
If someone you care about is getting divorced, be there for them. Listen without judgment. Offer a helping hand—whether it’s with childcare, errands, or simply sharing a meal. Let them know they aren’t alone. Small acts of kindness provide comfort during this overwhelming time. Compassion is free and so valuable.
Divorce is not the end of the story; for many, it’s the start of a new chapter. But in those early stages, when fear and uncertainty are at their peak, people need empathy and compassion. By offering your support, you can help them navigate the painful process and move toward a brighter future.
Two years from now, things will likely be much better for them. But today, your understanding could be the light they need most.
Michone J. Riewer is an attorney with Strategic Divorce in Lake Bluff, 847-234-4445, strategicdivorce.com.
FASHION & BEAUTY
LIVING AND DRESSING WELL
Biossance Squalane + Firm and Lift Serum, Sephora Old Orchard, 847-568-0323
NATURE’S GLOW
Embrace natural beauty and sustainable style this spring
EDITED BY ALLISON MELONE
BEAUTY AU NATURALE
EDITED BY ALLISON MELONE
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We are thrilled to celebrate Ted’s induction into the Christie’s International Real Estate 2025 Masters Circle! This prestigious honor recognizes his impressive success over the past year and his unwavering commitment to delivering exceptional results for his clients.
As a proud agent with @properties Christie’s International Real Estate, Ted exemplifies the tradition of excellence and innovation that defines our brand.
Here’s to more milestones and continued success in 2025!
CULTURE & ARTS
THE NORTH SHORE’S MOST CREATIVE PURSUITS
CREATIVE PULSE
Meet Ana Kane and Hector Hernandez, two artists bringing cultural richness to the North Shore
Artist Ana Kane wearing Oscar de la Renta, Neiman Marcus Northbrook. Photography by Maria Ponce/Styling by Theresa DeMaria/ Hair & Makeup by Leanna Ernest
ART & ARTIST PAINTING WITH VALUES
Artist Hector Hernandez keeps ancient painting techniques alive at his Lake Forest studio.
WORDS AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY MONICA KASS ROGERS STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA
At 10:30 a.m.the light filtering through the windows in Lake Forest is beautiful. “Yes,” artist Hector Hernandez says, smiling appreciatively, “David Adler designed this estate so that every room is perfectly lit by natural light. It’s so helpful when I paint.”
One of few artists still working in technique mixte, the 15th-century painting technique that made works by Da Vinci, Raphael, and other Renaissance painters so glowingly beautiful, Hernandez uses a mixture of egg tempera and oil to create his painting’s underlayers first, allowing each to dry for days. “This indirect method of painting is like creating a foundation for a house before you start building on top of it,” Hernandez explains. “With technique mixte, we paint with values (lights and darks) first, and then on top of those we apply color in very thin coats so that light penetrates each color and bounces back, illuminating the work.”
Upstairs, Hernandez leads the way to the studio where he is putting the finishing touches on a vibrantly rich, life-sized painting depicting the cautionary tale of Apollo and Marsyas. In the story, the satyr Marsyas, famous for expertly playing an oboe the goddess Athena had tossed down to earth, became so prideful about his musicianship that he challenged Apollo to a musical
Hector Hernandez wearing Theory pant, Zegna shirt, Brunello Cucinelli sweater
ART & ARTIST
contest. Apollo wins, of course, and exacts harsh punishment on the satyr for his hubris. “It’s the classic pride comes before a fall story,” says Hernandez, who has painted the figures in an epic wrestling match.
While technique mixte is laborious, difficult, and time-consuming, Hernandez believes this painting method transcends others. The first paintings he saw created this way were by Patrick Betaudier, a technique mixte master and founder of The Atelier Neo Medicis in Montflanquin, France. “I was blown away when I saw Patrick’s work,” Hernandez recalls.
Just out of high school and a student at The American Academy of Art, Hernandez spent five years studying with Betaudier in France and the United States during summer breaks from school.
Once he gained some mastery of the technique, Hernandez set off on a personal quest. Born in Mexico to a family that immi-
grated to Chicago when he was very young, Hernandez heard important stories about his ancestor’s lives in Mexico but wanted to know more. “I wanted to connect with my family’s roots,” Hernandez explains. “My great-grandfather and other relatives were among the thousands who lost their lives in the Cristero War in the 1920s, a rebellion set off by the government’s persecution of Roman Catholics and a ban on their public religious practices,” says Hernandez. “Because of this persecution, my family held more tightly to their faith rather than rejecting it and that shaped my own value system and ultimately, my interest in art.”
What was intended to be a six-month sojourn to Jalisco, Mexico, turned into an 11-year stay, during which Hernandez painted works commissioned by individual clients and the church.
“Things just opened up before me,” says Hernandez. “Understanding more about my family’s experience encouraged me to go down the path of traditional painting I have taken.”
Jake, oil on canvas, 24 x 18 in
St. Sebastian, oil on board, 40 x 18 in
ART & ARTIST
Now permanently back in the States and serving as a resident artist, Hernandez is busy both painting and teaching. All of his work is by commission. In particular, he loves painting portraits because they allow him to “capture the essence of a person’s soul at a fixed moment in time.” Hernandez also paints allegorical and religious works for clients here and in Mexico.
Like the painting of Apollo and Marsyas in his studio, his work is often inspired by stories with universal meaning. “There are so many stories that resonate universally—stories rich in innate values, concepts, and metaphysical necessities that go beyond the material to touch who we are as human beings. Those are the stories I want to use as subject matter.”
Hernandez’s painting of St. Sebastian, for example. A Roman soldier who was also a Christian, Sebastian was martyred for his beliefs in a story eerily similar to that of Hernandez’s ancestors.
“It’s true,” Hernandez smiles wistfully. “St. Sebastian became a symbol of righteous rebellion in the same way that my great-grandfather and others in the Cristero War were. But I think all memorable art takes us to the larger questions. I seek to be a painter who tries to capture these bigger truths because I believe that is part of art’s role in society. Ultimately, I’m searching for the good. Values, concepts, and ideas that have existed throughout history. I want to preserve these things in my work.”
To commission artworks from Hector Hernandez or to take oil painting classes at the studio (offered from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Mondays and Wednesdays), email hectormhernandez29@gmail.com or call (224) 507-2270.
Shelly Marks, Sharon Eklund, Elzi Bunten at work on paintings at the studio as Hernandez instructs.
Apollo and Marsyas, oil on canvas, 68 x 48 in
Hernandez’s drawing of the Smiths’ grandson
TRENDING
CULTURAL EXPRESSION
Born in Mexico, artist ANA KANE now lives in Wilmette with her family. Passionate about uncovering beauty and design in every corner of life, Kane’s work is deeply rooted in her Mexican heritage. Her vibrant pieces weave narratives inspired by culture, textiles, the female form, wildlife, and vegetation. A hallmark of Kane’s artistic expression is her signature headless portraits, which encourage viewers to explore human identity through body language, clothing, and other visual elements, bypassing traditional reliance on facial expressions. Her paintings, crafted primarily in tempera grassa on canvas, exude texture and depth, while her delicate watercolor drawings on paper showcase her meticulous attention to detail. After earning a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the University of Monterrey, Kane expanded her artistic education at institutions including Parsons School of Design in New York City and the Central Academy of Fine Arts in Beijing. While her travels have significantly shaped her perspective, Kane now draws much of her inspiration from her immediate surroundings. Her Illinois backyard, brimming with squirrels, rabbits, and intricately woven bird nests, offers a constant source of inspiration. These natural elements fuel her exploration of the interconnectedness between nature and human expression, bringing a fresh lens to her art. In between painting and raising her young daughter and son (both an inspiration and an occasional distraction these days), Kane shares how she stays current in a colorful world.
EDITED BY REDDING WORTH
PHOTOGRAPHY
BY
MARIA PONCE STYLING
BY
THERESA DEMARIA HAIR & MAKEUP
BY
LEANNA ERNEST
ON HER NIGHTSTAND
“I keep a drawing of our family, made by our 5-year-old daughter, as a bookmark in Fernando Corominas’ Positive Education. While I deeply admire the author, finding time to read is a challenge. When my kids are asleep, I often use that quiet time to paint.”
IN HER EARBUDS
“I’m a big fan of country music and sometimes dive into Broadway musicals for a change of pace. I also enjoy podcasts that fuel my passion for education and creativity, like the Painters Today Podcast and Arts Entrepreneurship Podcast. They keep me motivated and inspired.”
ON HER MOBILE
@alexproba
“I follow several artists who inspire and challenge me, pushing me to create more, including @tomassanchezstudio, @littlepurpleflowers.art, @mestizmx, and @monicafernandezb. Interior design is another passion—I follow accounts that showcase color, patterns, and unique elements that make homes truly special including @sophierobinsoninteriors and @alexproba Lately, I’ve been nesting in our new home, creating a sanctuary that reflects my style. Having spaces where I can model objects for painting has made a huge difference in my focus and creative momentum.”
Ana Kane wearing Lovebirds dress, Neiman Marcus Northbrook, photographed with her children and dog.
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& CUISINE
Enjoy adventures in the Scottish Highlands and a Dinner Date at DeNucci’s Highland Park
4x4 Adventures’ Land Rover Defender Adventure in the Scottish Highlands. Photography by Sydney Lapin
SCOTTISH SOJOURN O
Terrestrial, aerial, and nautical adventures abound at Scotland’s famed Cameron House Hotel.
WORDS BY DUSTIN O’REGAN
n a cool, misty evening last fall, while standing on the shore of Scotland’s Loch Lomond watching dusk’s descent, a stanza from the Scottish folksong “The Bonnie Banks o’ Loch Lomond” echoed in my mind—“where in soft purple hue, the highland hills we view, and the moon coming out in the gloaming.”
I found myself here after a 90-minute trip from Edinburgh through West Dunbartonshire on ancient, narrow roads bordered by moss-covered stone walls. The drive was my first introduction to the country’s charm—from my driver’s lilting brogue to the views of farmland dotted by sheep to glimpses of grand manors crowned by chimneys spouting curling wisps of smoke.
After entering through an impressive stone gate and driving around a bend, we arrived at the five-star Cameron House Hotel, a grand baronial estate perched proudly along Loch Lomond— Great Britain’s largest stretch of fresh water, known as the “Queen of Scottish Lochs” and the gateway to the Highlands.
Originally built in the 1700s, Cameron House stands on 400 acres of woodlands and is home to championship golf courses, a gorgeous spa, and deluxe accommodations ranging from expan-
Cameron House Hotel viewed from Loch Lomond. Photography courtesy of Cameron House.
FIRST CLASS
sive suites in a mansion dubbed the Auld House to stand-alone cottages overlooking The Carrick Golf Course. No wonder dignitaries and celebrities have long found sanctuary here—Sir Winston Churchill was a regular, and Cristiano Ronaldo and the Portuguese football team were in residence when we visited.
My suite, the Inchcruin, named in honor of one of Loch Lomond’s many islands, sat just above the entrance to Cameron House and offered beautiful views of the lake. Recently renovated by the renowned Scottish design studio Timorous Beasties, the décor combined rich Scottish fabrics, furnishings, and artwork with just the right touch of modern luxury. Sheathed in Carrera
marble from floor to ceiling, the expansive bathroom sported a rain shower and a grand bathtub that became my nightly retreat.
In addition to a focus on architecture and design, sustainability plays a key role in Cameron House’s operations. The hotel is committed to reducing its environmental impact and was the 2024 recipient of the Green Tourism Gold award honoring its deep commitment to preserving Scotland’s natural beauty.
Scotland is an outdoorsman’s paradise, and Cameron House has activities aplenty. My first adventure, a lesson in falconry, brought me face-to-feather with Scotland’s wildest residents. Graham, an expert falconer, introduced our band of merry travelers to several fine feathered fellows including Sorin, a charming barn owl with an impressive head swivel, and Artemis, a golden eagle so mighty I had to brace myself for his landing. I will admit it was a bit terrifying to have a giant bird of prey fly toward my outstretched arm, but my fears were outweighed by the thrill of interacting with these brilliantly trained raptors.
Another signature experience is the 4x4 Land Rover Defender Adventure (4x4adventures-scotland.com), a white-knuckle, off-road tour of the Loch Lomond area. Our knowledgeable and kilted guides, Ross and Iain, taught us Scottish terms like “glen” (valley)
Scotland’s Highland cattle. Photography by Sydney Lapin
Cameron House Hotel’s Celtic Warrior yacht. Photography courtesy of Cameron House
4x4 Adventures’ Land Rover Defender Adventure in the Mulea Forest. Photography by Sydney Lapin
FIRST CLASS
and educated us about the wonder of sphagnum moss, nature’s flash flood deterrent. After ascending a steep rocky path, we paused for a photo op, but the dramatic landscape was obscured by a cloudy veil of mist. Ross shared a bit of Scottish wisdom: “If you don’t like the Scottish weather, just wait for 10 minutes.” Sure enough, the clouds parted to reveal the Highlands in all their glory.
Taking the wheel on our descent, while Ross called out alternating commands “clutch, brake, and gear,” I had us barreling down the rugged hills and into the ancient Mulea Forest, where emerald moss drapes every branch and rocks peek through streams like stony sentinels.
We ended the adventure with a stop at a local farm to see the legendary Highland cattle. These woolly, sweet-tempered creatures with their ginger-colored, bushy bangs, are a beloved Scottish icon symbolizing the country’s strength, endurance, and rustic beauty. You’ll find these gentle giants’ faces emblazoned on everything from sweaters and coffee mugs to ties and socks.
After traversing the terrain, we took to the skies in Cameron House’s seaplane—the only one of its kind in the UK. Soaring above the loch provided unparalleled views of peat and fern-covered hills that rise and fall like waves.
After land and sky, we ventured out on the waters of Loch Lomond on the Celtic Warrior, the hotel’s luxury cruiser. Leaving from the property’s marina, we glided across the loch catching views of fairytale castles nestled in the mist-shrouded hills and indulged in free-flowing champagne.
All the escapades built up our appetites. Fortunately, Cameron House offers something for every taste. The Cameron Grill presents a buffet breakfast to start off the day—the traditional haggis was a fan favorite. Steak lovers will want to return to the Cameron Grill for dinner; the menu offers Scottish grass-fed steaks that are dry-aged for a minimum of 21–45 days. For dinner starters, I highly recommend the pan-seared Orkney scallops with rhubarb chutney. For dessert, try the Cameron Pink Lady Apple Tarte Tatin with Madagascan Vanilla ice cream (the creamiest ice cream I have ever encountered – de-lish!).
Afternoon Tea in The Lobby Bar was a delightful way to experience the most British of traditions. We nibbled on tea sandwiches and savory scones while sipping a perfectly steeped cup of tea. Feeling festive, we added a glass of Veuve Clicquot and agreed that everything tastes better with bubbles.
If you are in the mood for something more casual, visit The Tavern for the best burger with a side of truffle fries. For a chic repast, La Vista serves up delicious Italian fare that is only surpassed by the sweeping lake views through the restaurant’s floor-to-ceiling windows.
Cameron House Hotel suite.
Photography by Sydney Lapin
Cameron House Hotel’s Great Scots Bar. Photography courtesy of Cameron House
FIRST CLASS
Looking for a nightcap? The famous Great Scots Bar has more than 250 whiskeys to explore, along with a curated list of wines, spirits, and cocktails. Images of Scottish icons like Rod Stewart and Sean Connery line the walls so you will be able to say that you drank with Scotland’s greats. When you aren’t scanning the walls for a familiar face, relax on the lakeview deck outfitted with heaters and cozy blankets.
My final day at Cameron House featured a visit to the spa. The Spa offers a thermal & hydro experience that includes an array of
“I heard it one night, beneath the owlet’s flight,
Across the soft air of the lowland,
But I knew not who sang, nor how often it would hang
Above the still deeps of Loch Lomond.”
— JOANNA MALONE
saunas, steam rooms, and pools. Soaking in the rooftop infinity hot tub, as I watched the lake glisten and the pines sway, was a serene experience. I topped off my visit with an ESPA Express Facial, the perfect complement to my afternoon indulgence. Scotland should be top on your travel wish list. It’s a gem too good to miss. If you’d like to extend your trip, the historic cities of Edinburgh and Glasgow are a short drive from Cameron House.
As my bags were tucked into the car, the tartan-clad doorman bid me farewell with a cheerful “Haste ye back!” I surely will heed his advice and return soon to Scotland where adventure beckons from the Bonnie Banks of Loch Lomond.
For more information, visit cameronhouse.co.uk.
Aerial view of Cameron House Hotel’s golf course and Loch Lomond. Photography courtesy of Cameron House Hotel
Falconry on the grounds of Cameron House Hotel. Photography by Sydney Lapin
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We are also pleased to feature unique antique accessories and furniture curated by Lee Youngstrom of Barrington, in collaboration with Irongate Designs, exclusively at RUGPORT.
Invest with Intention
DELIZIOSO DENUCCI’S
Ballyhoo Hospitality’s DeNucci’s brings the best of Italian American cuisine to Highland Park.
WORDS AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY
FOOD EDITOR MONICA KASS ROGERS
The pride Chef Salvatore “Sal” Lo Cascio takes in his handiwork is apparent. Stepping from the kitchen with a fresh-baked pesto pizza held aloft, Lo Cascio sets the pie down on a table at the recently opened DeNucci’s in Highland Park, and says with grin, “And there you go!”
It’s no surprise that Lo Cascio’s pizzas are among the menu mainstays at DeNucci’s—Ballyhoo Hospitality’s newest North Shore restaurant. Lo Cascio’s pizzaiolo skills, honed in his Sicilian homeland, led to pizza triumphs at Ballyhoo’s Coda di Volpe in Chicago, then at Pizza by Sal in Wilmette, and now at DeNucci’s.
“I become obsessed,” says Lo Cascio, “especially when I am working on a new crust. I work on it every day. It’s not easy because there is so much to balance with time, temperature, and stretch. All of the pieces have to match perfectly to create a winning recipe and procedure.”
At DeNucci’s, the pizza is New York-style. The dough for the crust goes through a three-day fermentation cycle that gives it the perfect crisp and chewy texture and sourdough flavor when baked.
It comes in three “white” varieties (pesto pomodorini, mushroom, and tartufo) and four “red” varieties (Margherita, sausage & onion, spicy pepperoni, and good veggie.)
All of that, plus the gluten-free Sicilian-style pizza Lo Cascio first created as an act of love for his wife. “She’s celiac,” says Lo Cascio, “and it was heartbreaking for me that she couldn’t eat the things I could eat.”
Thicker than the New York-style crust, with a pillowy top, nice crispy bottom, and gorgeously fresh toppings (ricotta, mozzarella, blistered cherry tomatoes, and basil pesto), the pesto version was one of the best gluten-free pizzas we’ve had.
But there’s more to DeNucci’s than pizza. Warm, convivial, with plenty of red sauce on top, DeNucci’s is restaurant powerhouse Ballyhoo Hospitality’s first entry into the Highland Park dining scene. Opened in November, the 220-seat restaurant is classier than the typical Italian joint but not as pricey as the steak houses (Beelow’s Steakhouse and Rosebud) that preceded it in this location. DeNucci’s gives Highland Park residents an inviting evening destination right next door to the recently refurbished Wayfarer Theater.
Maine Lobster Agnolotti Del Plin
DINNER DATE
Like its sister DeNucci’s, which opened last summer in Lincoln Park, the menu at DeNucci’s Highland Park is sans steak. Entrees are either fish or poultry, except for one veal dish. The hearty “Nonna-styled” specials featured throughout the week are Italian American favorites, like the five-layer lasagna Bolognese offered on Tuesday. Classically prepared, this delicious dish is not too cheesy, with its rich sauce layered between delicate pasta sheets handmade in the restaurant that morning.
Our culinary foray began with the mushroom-truffle arancini. The crisp-tender morsels of nutty, 7-year-aged carnaroli rice blended with minced chives, mushroom duxelles, pecorino Romano, and mascarpone cheese were very good on their own, but even better twirled in the truffled aioli on the plate beneath them.
Another favorite starter? The platter of grilled calamari dotted with bright, pickled peppadew and banana peppers in a thickened red wine vinaigrette. The combination made me think “acid and spice, and all things nice,” which pretty much sums up the dish.
From the pasta offerings, we tried one of the four fresh handmade selections and one of the five dried and imported pasta offerings.
From the fresh handmade choices, the agnolotti del plin is pure decadence. The bite-sized pasta purses are filled with minced shallot, mascarpone, Maine lobster, and herbs and bathed in a creamy fennel-accented sauce dotted with more lobster pieces.
The lumache arrabbiata (lumache means “snail” in Italian) is a creamy, yet spicy dish with a sauce Ballyhoo V.P. of Culinary Jaysen Euler calls “Ballyhoo’s version of vodka sauce.” As the name suggests, the noodles were snail shell-shaped, perfect for cupping and holding the sauce.
Our group included some guests with dietary restrictions (dairy and gluten intolerance). Thankfully, DeNucci’s menu had plenty to offer that met their needs. The fish dishes, for example, were especially good.
The branzino piccata is a must. The nicely crisped and charred fish is bathed in a lemony caper sauce, with surprise bursts of flavor delivered by tiny lemon supremes.
DeNucci’s cocktail options were sampled throughout dinner. We found the Amaro Manhattan especially good, and the fun, non-alcoholic Phony Negroni equally tasty. DeNucci’s wine selection is robust, with more than 50 selections, and the dessert menu includes another 14 after-dinner drink options—from the Grappa di Sassicaia to the Ramazzotti.
And to close? DeNucci’s pistachio blondie sundae—a mountain of pistachio ice cream, whipped cream, and blondie pieces, with an amaro cherry on top is very shareable. We couldn’t even finish it between the four of us.
We look forward to trying DeNucci’s recently introduced mozzarella sticks on our next visit. The mozzarella is freshly made and hand-pulled in-house, before being breaded, fried, and served with marinara sauce. We’ll also pay close attention when the server lists the verbal specials, anticipating the introduction of the tavern-style pizza Lo Cascio is working on now. “That day will come,” laughs Lo Cascio. “But not until it’s perfect.”
For more information visit denuccisitalian.com.
Starters including Garlic Knots, Bruschetta Pomodoro, and Chopped Salad
Pesto Pizza
Ballyhoo’s Pizzaiolo Chef Salvatore “Sal” Lo Cascio
HOUSE & HOME
AN INSIDE LOOK AT CHICAGO’S MOST EXCLUSIVE ADDRESS—THE NORTH SHORE
Family room of a Savarie Interiors’ project where designer Lj Savarie revitalized the historic Tudor featured in Home Tour. Photography by Heather Talbert/Styling by Kimberly Swedelius
HOME TOUR
HOME TOUR WELL-MANORED
A Winnetka Tudor receives a thoughtful refresh by Lj Savarie that blends classic charm with modern functionality.
WORDS BY THOMAS CONNORS / PHOTOGRAPHY BY HEATHER TALBERT / STYLING BY KIMBERLY SWEDELIUS
When it comes to a fine home, nothing telegraphs stateliness quite like a Tudor Revival residence. Popularized in the 1920s and 1930s, this architectural style captivated Americans with its romantic gravitas. From sprawling estates to charming suburban streets, the Tudor Revival became a hallmark of elegance and timeless appeal. The wood paneling, handsome fireplaces, decorative brickwork, and casement windows that characterize the style still charm, but like our wardrobes (more relaxed) and what we whip up in the kitchen (cleaner, healthier), Tudor interiors often benefit from a little lightening up. Such was the case when North Shore interior designer Lj Savarie of Savarie Interiors took on this Winnetka project.
“This project was all about transforming a 1922 house into a functional and inviting home for a family of six,” says Savarie. “Our goal was to make it cozy, beautiful, and comfortable while honoring its original charm.” Rather than discarding the home’s architectural character, Savarie skillfully balanced preservation with thoughtful updates. The result is a harmonious blend of timeless elegance and relaxed, everyday livability—where formality and comfort coexist effortlessly.
Initiated during the days of COVID, when our homes had to do double duty, Savarie’s redesign was focused on making every bit of her clients’ house user-friendly. One of her driving decisions was to transform the formal living room into more of a family room, a space that could move from cocktail party to game night with ease. “The lead for this was the big, beautiful bay window,”
HOME TOUR
says Savarie, “where we put a large-scale table that can serve multiple purposes.” The hexagonal shape of the custom table— paired with chairs from Villa & House—mirrors the angles of the lead glass windows. An adjacent seating area, situated under a timbered ceiling, is amply outfitted with sofas and easy chairs in shades of blue upholstery that work beautifully with the pale green drapery she selected for the floor-to-ceiling windows.
The butler’s pantry linking the family room to the dining room is painted in a lacquered navy from Fine Paints of Europe, and its cabinetry is appointed with brass hardware that will patina over time. “It’s a generous and welcoming space,” observes Savarie, “and a really nice moment before you enter the dining room through a pretty archway.” Anchored by a STARK rug with a deep blue and white pattern reminiscent of an astral constellation, the dining room epitomizes Savarie’s commitment to honoring the home’s original details. She celebrated the beautiful arched windows by keeping them drapery-free and paid homage to the streamlined profile of the limestone fireplace with a simple white console table. “I wanted the room to feel updated and current, but still respect the bones of the home,” says Savarie. “The modern chandelier and rug are a nice complement to the antiques in the space.”
Savarie’s most eloquent gesture linking past and present is the wall treatment she introduced in the dining room, a vertical botanical motif created by artist Julie Lawrence, which subtly incorporates the first letter of the family’s surname. This element was inspired by the home’s original owners who left their mark by adding the letter “P” to a window.
When invigorating an older home, it’s a slippery slope between giving in and getting on, between aping the past and banishing it. Savarie wasn’t stumped by what was and possessed the foresight to imagine what could be. The result is an elevated, unfussy home that’s very easy on the eyes. And no doubt, easy to live in, even for a family of six.
For more information about Savarie Interiors, visit savarieinteriors.com.
Family room looking into dining room
Library
SHANA VITEK
DIVORCE WITHOUT COURT
Divorce is a very personal and emotional process that often involves children. However, anyone with an internet connection can access most divorce court documents. Additionally, divorce court often takes place on Zoom and is broadcast on YouTube where anyone can log on and watch.
It is concerning that children can go online to read the details of their parents’ divorce, or that a nosy neighbor could pull up another family’s divorce paperwork on their phone.
There is simply no reason the details of any divorce need to be public. Even the most contentious divorces can be handled without going to court. Better options are available if both parties agree they want to keep their divorce private. Alternative dispute resolution processes like mediation, arbitration, and collaborative divorce are very effective ways to accomplish this goal in the most efficient manner possible.
Shana Vitek is an Equity Partner at Beermann LLP, the largest family law firm in Illinois. For over 20 years, she has practiced family law exclusively and is trained in mediation, arbitration, and collaborative law.
For more information, visit www.beermannlaw.com/team/shana-l-vitek.
NEW NATURAL
Hermès Ash Tree Stool, Hermès Chicago, 312-787-8175 04 Tuckernuck
Rattan Placemat, tnuck.com 05 Paloma & Co Large Rectangular Rush Basket, shoppalomaandco.com 06 Sonder & Holliday Raffia Coasters, modaoperandi.com 07 Roanoke Mirror, Jayson Home Chicago, 773-248-8180
Hemp Settee, Jayson Home Chicago, 773-248-8180 09 Parachute Heirloom Tencel Linen Bedding, Parachute Home Chicago, 872-588-8107
oomcraft Textiles, the North Shore’s premier destination for all things fabric, upholstery, and drapery window treatments, has just completed an exciting transformation at their location in Vernon Hills (645 Lakeview Parkway). The store has undergone a stunning renovation, and customers can now explore a refreshed space filled with new inventory and enhanced offerings. The retailer is proud to offer the most competitive pricing in the area for custom window treatments and upholstery, with world-class workroom quality.
This month, they are also offering a 20 percent discount on book fabrics, making it the perfect time to refresh your home for the spring season. Whether you’re tackling a small update or a large-scale project, Loomcraft is the North Shore’s go-to one-stop shop for window treatments, reupholstery, and more.
What’s New at Loomcraft Textiles?
• Brand-New Flooring: The newly renovated space features modern flooring that creates a warm and inviting atmosphere.
• Improved Displays: Redesigned displays make it easier for customers to browse the extensive fabric collection, from timeless classics to the latest trends.
• Expanded Inventory: Loomcraft has stocked even more luxurious upholstery, drapery options, and high-quality fabrics to help bring design dreams to life.
Spring is the perfect time to breathe new life into your furniture. Loomcraft’s custom upholstery services offer a variety of durable fabrics to refresh cushions and frames, allowing customers to create the perfect outdoor oasis for the season.
Refresh Your Windows with Sunshades, Roman Shades, Panels, and More:
Whether updating window treatments or designing custom drapery, this expert team will guide customers through selecting the perfect textures and colors to brighten any space and bring fresh spring energy indoors.
Custom Bedding for a Spring Awakening:
Transform any bedroom into a relaxing retreat with a new custom bedding set. With a wide selection of fabrics to choose from, it’s easy to create a stylish, comfortable sleep environment.
Loomcraft Textiles has been the North Shore’s home décor hub for 35 years, and the newly renovated showroom is ready to help customers bring their spring visions to life. Visitors can walk in (Monday to Saturday, 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.) or call to schedule an appointment. Home appointments are also available upon request.
Loomcraft Textiles is located at 645 Lakeview Parkway in Vernon Hills. For more information, call 847-680-1119 or email vhstore@loomcraft.com.
AFTER TWO DECADES IN REAL ESTATE
and over $400 million in closed transactions*, consistently selling clients' properties faster and for more money means that Brandie delivers results, from the listing to the closing table. Indeed, as the real estate expert on HGTV's top-rated shows, "Designed to Sell" in Chicago, "Hidden Potential," as well as "Property Envy" on Bravo, Brandie's expertise in design and staging complements her real estate know-how, bringing a unique blend of talent, energy and client focus not only to TV but to her daily work helping buyers and sellers find success.
With expertise in both Illinois and Wisconsin, Brandie adeptly serves a broad range of clients but especially loves opening doors to homeowners who want to plant roots where Brandie personally calls home and raises her own family.
• Nationally recognized real estate expert, appearing on Today Show, CNN, and Fox Business News
• Multiple industry awards and recognitions
• 100% referral-based business, but first-time clients always welcome
• Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR)
• Accredited Staging Professional (ASP)
• 24/7 dedication to client response, service, and personal attention
• Bachelor of Arts, Miami University, Oxford, Ohio
Field Museum Scientists Lesley de Souza wearing Vince sweater and skirt and Nigel Pitman wearing Theory suit, Neiman Marcus Northbrook
CUTTING-EDGE CONSERVATION
Field Museum scientists are leading the way in protecting the world’s great rainforests.
WORDS
BY THOMAS CONNORS / PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATRINA WITTKAMP
STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA / HAIR & MAKEUP BY LEANNA ERNEST
Last November, when most of us were savoring a piece of pumpkin pie, Lesley de Souza and Nigel Pitman could only dream of a home-cooked meal.
Conservation scientists with Chicago’s famed Field Museum, the Evanston couple was deep in Guyana’s rainforest conducting one of the most comprehensive studies of the area’s ecological and biodiversity ever performed. “People spend years in a landscape doing research,” says de Souza, Senior Conservation Ecologist at the Field. “We do what are called rapid inventories, where we are in the field from three to four weeks, then come back and synthesize the data we’ve gathered so that we can give that information quickly to governments to advance conservation in that area.”
“If you think of a typical expedition,” says Pitman, Senior Conservation Ecologist at the Field since 2013, “scientists would come back to Chicago from whatever interesting place they’d explored and study their specimens and organize their data with the goal of maybe writing an article or organizing an exhibition. The thing we want most of all to generate is conservation action. We want to convince governments that the place we just came back from is really valuable and deserves to be protected.”
The Field is one of the only natural history museums dedicated to conservation. Since 1999, its rapid inventory program has helped governments establish 17 new conservation areas in the Andes-Amazon region, comprising more than 21 million acres of forests and rivers. “Many people probably don’t realize that the Field Museum is a major player in Amazonian conservation,” suggests Pitman. “If you ask South Americans active in the conservation community who’s really a leader in providing the biodiversity science that sustains some of these protected area proposals, the answer is not the Smithsonian, it’s not the Natural History Museum in London, it’s the Field.” That perception is built on years of work in Peru, Colombia, Ecuador, and Bolivia using a multi-disciplinary, highly collaborative approach that not only involves an international roster of experts in geology, plants, fishes, reptiles, amphibians, birds, mammals, soils, and local ecology but also indigenous community members and local experts. As de Souza noted in a recent statement, “The Amerindian communities know more about these areas than the foreign scientists who come to study the region’s biodiversity. Our goal is to marry these two bodies of knowledge.”
The 3 million acres targeted for conservation in Guyana represent one of the largest, uncompromised rainforests on the planet. More than 95 percent of the Guyanese territory is covered in standing forest, and the country is a world leader in protecting its forests. “We are so used to getting our information about the
rainforest from gloomy newspaper articles that give the impression that the whole thing is on fire or in tatters,” observes Pitman, an expert on Amazonian trees. “We are lucky enough to go to places that remind us that that’s not the case at all. There are still vast, vast areas of the Amazon that are in incredibly good shape. This 3-million-acre patch in Guyana is one of them, incredibly wild and intact, untouched forest to the horizon in every direction.”
Nonetheless, as Pitman notes, “Conservation biology is a crisis discipline,” and scientists compete with oil, mining, and logging interests eager to extract what they can from unspoiled environments. Plus, a change in government can send support for conservation efforts out the window. “In 2003, I was doing an inventory in northern Peru, where the idea was to create a national park,” recalls Pitman. “It wasn’t created until 15 years later. In those years there were lots of moments when it seemed it was about to happen and then plenty of times when the government told us there was no chance this park was going to be created. One of the strengths of our program is that it is 25 years old and growing strong. So, when we do a rapid inventory and make arguments for the protection of a place, we are prepared to make those arguments for as long as it takes to get that area protected.”
Pitman wearing Bugatchi jacket and de Souza wearing Samantha Sung dress, Neiman Marcus, photographed with specimens at the Field Museum.
mimi goodyear heather siegel lauren rabin Jolie
cari zweigdriscoll elise dayan
scott glazer
HOPE & ACTION
National Geographic’s Preserving Legacies’ Victoria Herrmann safeguards threatened cultural heritage sites.
WORDS
BY THOMAS CONNORS
National Geographic Explorer
Victoria Herrmann at Petra, Jordan.
Photo by Michael O. Snyder/ National Geographic
PHerrmann’s first step in keeping that commitment was to study international relations and human rights. “It was only when I got to university,” she shares, “that I realized climate change was the existential threat facing my generation. It was then that my being a granddaughter of Holocaust survivors and the realization of climate change as our generation’s biggest threat came together and inspired my lifelong determination to ensure every single community that calls this planet home has a vibrant and viable future and that their voices are heard in the halls of power in every country and in our global climate negotiations.”
olar geography specialist Dr. Victoria Herrmann traces the course of her career to an early acquaintance with the hard facts of history. “I grew up hearing the stories of my grandparents who are Holocaust survivors and the devastation that came from a silent world as their communities faced an existential threat. From a young age, I knew that I wanted to do something to make sure that no one, no family, no community ever faced the same silence that my grandmother and grandfather and their families faced.”
Herrmann earned a Ph.D. in Geography from the University of Cambridge and served there as president and managing director of The Arctic Institute from 2016 to 2021. While leading the National Geographic-funded America’s Eroding Edges project—which identified climate vulnerabilities in coastal communities and coastal ecosystems—she spoke before the Senate and House and at the 22nd United Nations Conference of the Parties. Named one of the “World’s 100 Most Influential People in Climate Policy” by Apolitical (a roster that ranged from UN Secretary General, Antonio Guterres, to broadcaster and natural historian, Sir David Attenborough), Herrmann is currently co-founder and executive director of Preserving Legacies, a National Geographic Society-supported initiative that works with communities worldwide to help adapt cultural heritage sites to the challenges of climate change.
Petra, Jordan, 1963 – Elaborate sandstone structures cut in relief.
Photo by Luis Marden/National Geographic.
Petra, Jordan, 2023 –Herrmann (left) working with Preserving Legacies site custodian Taher Falahat. Photo by Michael O. Snyder/National Geographic.
Petra, Jordan, 2023 – Herrmann exploring ancient ruins. Photo by Michael O. Snyder/ National Geographic.
“I remember that it was a bleary February day when I received an email from National Geographic saying that they had a new funding opportunity focused on protecting threatened cultural heritage sites from being lost,” shares Herrmann. “The email said to ‘think big’, that if we had access to the people and tools we needed, what was our biggest idea for the long-term protection of cultural heritage sites in collaboration with local Indigenous and descendant communities?” Herrmann immediately asked her friend, Andrew Potts, who is now the Director of Community at Preserving Legacies, to start brainstorming. He in turn reached out to Dr. Will Megarry, who became the team’s Principal Investigator, and Julianne Polanco, Senior Advisor, to put in their two cents.
“From the start, Preserving Legacies was built on co-creation, on all our work from the different dimensions of safeguarding the places we love most,” says Herrmann. “I drew directly from my past storytelling and research work at America’s Eroding Edges. Andrew brought in the climate policy dimension, Will brought in his experience leading vulnerability assessments for heritage sites in Europe and Africa, and Juli came in with decades of experience as the Historic Preservation Officer for California.”
Each year, Preserving Legacies selects 10 climate-impacted communities from a pool of global applicants and works with
local leaders who serve as “custodians” in a three-year program built on climate science and risk assessment.
“In their first year,” explains Herrmann, “custodians are enrolled in a comprehensive training program designed to increase their climate literacy and equip them with the technical skills and tools necessary to assess climate risks, implement effective climate actions, and monitor the progress of resilience-building efforts. In their second year, they conduct a climate risk assessment for their community, leading focus groups to identify the economic, social, and environmental values of their heritage site.” This process leads to the creation of a comprehensive Risk Assessment and Action Plan, which is implemented in the third year.
Rice Terraces of the Philippine Cordilleras, Philippines, 2023 - Herrmann visits the rice terraces of Ifugao, Philippines. Photo by Khansa Bouaziz/National Geographic.
Preserving Legacies worked with 22 communities in 2024 and expects to work with 10 more in 2025. “These populations care for heritage that is tangible—such as historic buildings, archaeological sites, and agricultural landscapes—and intangible,” relates Herrmann, “traditions, languages, and practices passed down through generations. This includes communities like the cross-border spiritual landscape of Koutammakou across Togo and Benin and remote Indigenous communities with rich intangible heritage, like the Guató Barra in Brazil’s Pantanal.” In Hreymiya, Jordan, Preserving Legacies Site Custodian Taher Falahat is leading a project to revitalize and update the ancient terraces that punctuate the landscape, an ancient water management solution. These efforts not only maintain the physical integrity and historical significance of these structures but address how best to respond to future flash flooding. This is critical not only for the structures but for the community of Wadi Musa as well, where more than 70 percent of the population relies on Petra for their economic wellbeing.
Between melting ice and rising oceans, record-breaking rainfalls and flooding, devastating forest fires, and crop-killing droughts, the planet is facing increasing challenges on all fronts. “I’m the first to admit, in the context of climate change and accelerated loss of biodiversity, hope is hard to come by these days,” says Herrmann. “Things may seem hopeless, but we are not helpless. Every individual has a skill, a voice, a career to wield as a tool to address climate change. We must prioritize uplifting every individual to see themselves as a climate champion and empower them through government policy, private sector opportunity, and public investment to be part of climate solutions. It is up to each of us—those involved in Preserving Legacies and those reading this article—to create the hopeful pathway for all to act, together.
For more information, visit heritageadapts.org.
Herrmann at Petra, Jordan.
Photo by Michael O. Snyder/ National Geographic
Ifugao Province, Luzon Island, Philippines, 1940 – Women work in rice terraces that climb the hills of Luzon Island. Photo by Baylor Roberts/National Geographic.
Modern Composite Horizontal with Metal Posts
Traditional with Modern Top
Shadowbox with 1x4 Cap Board
Black Chain Link
Arched Picket
Chesterfield in Almond
Shadowbox with Lattice
Spectacular Spring Event
Since 1967, Fenceworks has been the North Shore’s trusted partner for beautiful fences, premium trampolines, custom playgrounds, and professional basketball hoop installations. Founded by Stan Ascher—affectionately known as “The Guy on 41”—our third-generation, familyowned boutique business remains dedicated to creating safe and joyful spaces where families can thrive.
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Led by Stan, Sandy Diamond (2nd Generation), and Jake Stotter (3rd Generation), the Fenceworks family continues to evolve while honoring our core values: transparency, quality, and unmatched service. Whether you’re safeguarding your property, designing the ultimate backyard oasis, or creating a space for kids to play and grow, Fenceworks is here to turn your vision into reality.
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Dorothea Emery-Duenow wearing Monique Lhuillier dress, Neiman Marcus Northbrook
NATURAL PROGRESSION
From rock band drummer to corporate sustainability officer, Dorothea Emery-Duenow has drawn upon the lessons of a childhood spent playing in nature.
WORDS BY JOE ROSENTHAL / PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATRINA WITTKAMP STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA / HAIR & MAKEUP BY DORIA DEBARTOLO
There’s a reason why environmentalists like Jane Goodall, Rachel Carson, and Graham Nash say that young people are the key to preserving the planet (“Teach your children well,” as the old song says). Our childhood beliefs about nature often define our later relationship with the environment. Director of Corporate Sustainability at UL Solutions Dorthea Emery-Duenow can trace the roots of her current position back to an idyllic, outdoorsy childhood.
Emery-Duenow grew up—along with her parents and many siblings—on sparsely inhabited Wadmalaw Island in South Carolina at her grandfather’s house. Living off the grid, they bathed in salt water, grew their own fruits and vegetables, sailed the Atlantic coast, and did their best to learn all the species around them by studying the old books that lined the home’s walls.
“That’s the kind of stuff that just passes onto you naturally as a kid,” Emery-Duenow says. “You just think that’s how grandparents are. That’s how grownups behave. And then when you move into other parts of society, you’re like, ‘Oh, that was very special!’”
From an early age, she felt the power of nature. “ I was always in the elements, getting tons of exercise and sunlight every day, climbing trees, and using my imagination to play with sticks and mud.” Over those formative years, Emery-Duenow felt her surroundings were more than just beautiful views; they were becoming part of her.
As she grew older, Emery-Duenow hopscotched around the world as her professor father landed in different teaching roles. Improbably, the sunlight-loving high schooler found herself visiting colleges in the Midwest. Looking back, she can’t help but laugh about her trip to the University of Chicago. “It was 40 degrees, freezing rain, and everything gothic and gray. And I thought, ‘Yeah, this is where I need to be!”’
Chicagoland became Emery-Duenow’s home, and she’s been here ever since. After graduation, she tried her hand at a number of different careers. The roles may have been different, but creativity was a common thread. She co-owned a web design agency, wrote copy for nonprofits, and even drummed in a touring rock duo. Ultimately, the physical and mental burden of running a two-person band and living out of a van proved too much, and
the music came to an abrupt end one night somewhere outside of Austin, Texas.
She returned to Chicago to embark upon her next chapter. “I went back to full-time work, had kids, and moved to the suburbs.” It was in those suburbs, sitting in her Highland Park home, that the epiphany hit. Perhaps it was the reality of having young children, new responsibilities, or the hangover of her creative sojourns. Emery-Duenow saw a position listed at UL Solutions and decided to give it a shot. She pulled together her portfolio and landed a role at the global, 130-year-old, Northbrook-headquartered company that provides safety, security, and sustainability services to businesses.
Emery-Duenow got the job and found herself working side by side with the head of corporate sustainability. “It was the right place, right time.” She suddenly found herself combining her greatest skill—writing—and her greatest passion—nature.
“We look at our own processes,” she explains. “Where can we make positive reductions? We look at the health and well-being of our employees, our customers, and anyone else impacted throughout the value chain.” It’s a mission she can get behind because it’s something she’s believed in since those childhood days with her seafaring grandfather.
“What’s cool and different about this company is the engineering mindset and our scientific approach,” she says. “If the data is there, and the facts are showing us things, we’re not ignoring it. We understand how to read data and know what it means.”
As for the big picture, Emery-Duenow thinks a lot about her children and the world they’ll inherit.
“We all know there’s too many screens, too much indoors,” she observes. “Not knowing what we’re putting into our mouths. We are woefully out of balance. I think change starts with something as simple as walking your neighborhood every day of the year. Getting into the woods here has really changed the way I see living on the North Shore. I’m connected to it in a way I never was before.”
And when it comes to the circuitous path she’s taken from a small coastal island to living the itinerant life out of a van to corporate America in the Windy City, Emery-Duenow takes it all in stride. “ I do trust the way, ‘the Tao,’ because I always seem to end up in a place that’s fitting.”
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SURF, SAND, AND STYLE: SPRING FASHION UNVEILED
As spring awakens along the tranquil shores of Lake Michigan, the shoreline’s wild beauty is a dramatic backdrop to a symphony of flowing fabrics, vibrant hues, and graceful silhouettes celebrating the season of renewal.
WORDS BY DUSTIN O’REGAN
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ADAM MAYER
STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA
HAIR & MAKEUP BY LEANNA ERNEST
MODELS: GINA MAGRO AND BRECK GAMBILL FROM SELECT MODEL MANAGEMENT
Gina wearing Zimmermann dress, Chloé sunglasses, Fendi sandals, and Canned Goods earrings, Neiman Marcus Michigan Avenue
Gina wearing Veronica Beard navy and white stripe top and pant. Breck wearing Brunello Cucinelli taupe and white stripe top and pant. Eugenia Kim sunhats, Marc Jacobs tote bag, and Valentino sandals, Neiman Marcus Northbrook
Breck wearing Viktor&Rolf dress, ikram
Breck wearing Christopher John Rogers green multi-colored dress, ikram and Ray-Ban sunglasses. Gina wearing Gucci sunglasses, L’Artiste silk striped blouse and pant, ikram
Gina wearing Self-Portrait dress
Gina wearing Zomer dress, ikram and YSL sandal, Neiman Marcus Northbrook
Gina wearing Alexander McQueen long sleeve blouse and skirt, Alaia embellished ballet shoe, Neiman Marcus, Michigan Avenue. Breck wearing Simone Rocha tulle dress, FOLOV embellished bag, ikram
Gina wearing Chloé peach silk dress and Breck wearing Burberry purple and gold silk dress, Neiman Marcus Michigan Avenue
Gina wearing L’artiste silk striped blouse and pant, ikram
Breck wearing Oscar de la Renta yellow fringedhem crepe dress, Neiman Marcus Michigan Avenue. Gina wearing Zomer, multi-colored silk and cotton top and skirt, ikram
MEREL MINUTE
DIVORCE FOR BUSINESS OWNERS
WORDS BY DAVID ZWASKA PHOTOGRAPHY BY CONNOR LANE
Divorce is already a scary proposition for anyone. But divorce for someone who owns a business sound like a nightmare, right? It doesn’t have to be. There are things that can be done alongside an experienced attorney to keep you and your business protected in a divorce case.
What are the key factors a business owner should consider in a divorce?
In divorce, assets acquired during the marriage are generally presumed to be marital property. This includes businesses started during the marriage, outside of a few exceptions.
Another factor the court may consider is each spouse’s contribution to the business. For example, if one spouse founded and grew the business, they may argue for a larger share. Conversely, if the other spouse focused on raising children or supporting the family, they could argue for a more equitable split of the business’s value.
Can a pre-nuptial or post-nuptial agreement help?
Good news here: yes. In fact, most of the pre-nuptial agreements (“prenups”) we negotiate involve protecting businesses in the event of a divorce. As a refresher, a prenup is a legally binding contract that spouses sign before a marriage that outlines what happens to property and debt in the event of a divorce. A post-nuptial agreement (“postnup”) is similar, except that it is signed during the marriage instead of before the marriage.
What is going to happen to my business?
There are several ways in which parties (and judges) address a marital business in a divorce action, including the following:
1. Buyout: In a divorce, marital businesses are valued by a neutral expert or opposing experts for each party. Once a value for the business is established, a buyout of one spouse’s interest in the company can take place at the time of divorce or over a period of years after the divorce.
2. Sale: Another option for parties with a marital business is to sell the business. This option typically will not require a valuation of the business as it will be sold for fair market value, the best indicator of value. Upon the sale, the proceeds from the sale of the company can be divided as agreed by the parties or otherwise ordered by the court.
3. Maintaining Shared Ownership: In some, albeit limited, situations, spouses can continue as partners in the business post-divorce. Both parties can remain as de-facto owners of the company and one spouse’s ownership in the company might be held in a “constructive trust,” ultimately allowing both to maintain an interest in the company until a future sale or buyout.
With thoughtful legal strategies, business owners can protect their interests while achieving equitable divorce outcomes.
How is this helpful for you?
At Merel Family Law, we take pride in protecting our clients and their assets from all angles. We’ve researched the case law and we’ve done the work. When it comes to your business and assets, you’re in excellent hands. If you have questions about anything I didn’t cover here, please reach out. Call today at (312) 408-7000.
Merel Family Law has offices in Chicago, Highland Park, and Hinsdale in Illinois and in Michigan. For more information, call 312-4087000 or visit merelfamilylaw.com.
MASTERFUL DETAILS
Russ Armstrong
CHICAGO WINDOW GUYS
Customized window and door solutions that go above and beyond.
WORDS BY JANIS MVK PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY CHICAGO WINDOW GUYS
Throughout the greater Chicago area, where architectural beauty meets extreme weather challenges, homeowners turn to Chicago Window Guys for reliable window and door solutions. Founded more than a decade ago by Russ Armstrong, the company has earned a reputation for delivering high-quality, energy-efficient products and exceptional service at competitive prices.
Chicago Window Guys’ dedication to personalized service sets them apart from others in the industry. From the initial consultation to the final installation, the team ensures that each project aligns with the homeowner’s vision and needs. They offer a wide array of products, including double-hung windows, casement windows, bay windows, and custom designs, all handcrafted in the USA with high-performance materials. “Our windows feature fully customizable hardware recessed into the frame for a modern appearance and state-of-the-art functionality,” says Armstrong. “We offer countless design possibilities and colors, and our design team is ready to take notes on everything you need. Whether you want to add more natural light into your home with brand new skylights or invest in residential security products, our team of experts can deliver exactly what you need.”
Their doors range from elegant French styles to robust modern steel entry options, catering to diverse aesthetic preferences and security requirements. “We offer a large selection of colors, styles, and high-quality materials for exterior doors for your home,” says Armstrong. “Our team of knowledgeable experts will help you select the best door for your home. Whether it’s fiberglass doors, a collection of patio doors, wood entry doors for an elegant touch, fiberglass entry doors for enhanced security, or composite entry doors for improved energy efficiency, we provide tailored solutions to match every preference and requirement.”
Energy efficiency is a cornerstone of their offerings. In a city known for its harsh winters and hot summers, Chicago Window Guys provides solutions that enhance home comfort and reduce energy costs. Their windows feature fully customizable hardware recessed into the frame for a modern appearance and state-of-the-art functionality. With countless design possibilities and colors, their design team is ready to tailor products to each client’s unique style.
The company’s service area spans the entire Chicago region, including suburbs like Arlington Heights, Naperville, and Evanston. Their comprehensive approach encompasses sales, installation, and post-installation support, ensuring a seamless experience for homeowners.
Chicago Window Guys is committed to quality, honesty, and prioritizing customers. With years of experience, they help homeowners find the right windows and doors, whether for better energy efficiency or a fresh look. By working directly with the owner and keeping everything local—no subcontractors—they deliver top-notch products and expert installations at up to half the cost of big national brands. Better quality, better service, and a better warranty, all at a price that’s hard to beat.
Chicago Window Guys, 847-512-3472, chicagowindowguy.com, @chicagowindowguys.
LIVING & GIVING
THE CHILDREN’S BALL
PHOTOGRAPHY BY CLARE
BRITT AND MARIAH SMITH
The Children’s Research Fund’s signature event, presented by Epsilon Economics | Epsilon Life Sciences, Jewel-Osco, and investment firm OCEANM19, returned to the Hilton Chicago in December. More than 700 guests came together for the black-tie gala hosted by 2024 Children’s Research Fund Campaign and Children’s Ball Co-Chairs Mohan Rao, Ph.D. and Maria Yen, Ph.D. More than $2.6 million was raised at the event, helping to reach a total of $4.4 million for the Board’s annual campaign. The funds raised benefit the Children’s Research Fund’s current three-year, $9 million commitment to Advanced Therapeutics at the Stanley Manne Children’s Research Institute at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago. crf.luriechildrens.org
John Holmes, Jenni Sorenson, Jennifer Beeson, Roxanne Martino, Gerald Beeson
Advisory Committee: Devanee Washington, Nancy Berberian, Tonya Geesman, Lori Gersten, Mimi Sherman, Donna Drescher, Rachel Drescher Smith, Heidi Wagman, Peter Bensinger Jr.
Jeff and Alexis McCall
Dr. Abigail Schwaede
Victoria, Nadia, and Devanee Washington
Katelyn and JJ Lewis
LIVING & GIVING
A CONVERSATION WITH LISA GENOVA
HPHOTOGRAPHY BY IAN MCLEOD
arvard-trained neuroscientist and New York Times bestselling author Lisa Genova came to Lake Forest’s Gorton Community Center to discuss More or Less Maddy , her new novel about a young woman trying to navigate the complex effects of bipolar disorder. The conversation was moderated by Megan Stielstra, the author of The Wrong Way to Save Your Life . More than 200 guests attended the event and book signing presented by Ragdale and hosted by Sandy Deromedi and Jeanna Park. lisagenova.com
THE MACPHERSON GROUP covers a large expanse of Chicago and multiple suburbs, bringing your listing a massive network of buyers. Buying or selling, we assist with every aspect of the process with 5-star customer service, full decluttering and staging services, in-depth market research, and fierce negotiating.
I can’t say enough about The MacPherson Groups excellent client service . We literally would not have a finished house to call home without their dedication to seeing it through construction. | MS
The MacPherson Group were fantastic in all phases of the real estate process: staging, contractors (painters / electricians), marketing, communication, negotiation, and working with the attorneys. I highly recommend them if you are in need of a full-service team! | HC
Girls THRIVE at Woodlands.
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MORE THAN JUST DÉCOR
Rugport leads the way in home glamour, comfort, and style.
WORDS BY JANIS MVK / PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATRINA WITTKAMP
For more than four decades, Rugport has been a trusted name in fine handmade rugs, offering timeless pieces that bring warmth and style to homes across Illinois, Michigan, and beyond. Established in 1979 by Ali and Houshi, Rugport now operates in three locations including Palatine, Illinois, and Petoskey and Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Ali and Houshi have a deep understanding of what makes a home special. They recognize that a home is a place of comfort, where individuals feel most relaxed and at ease. This appreciation is reflected in every piece their showrooms offer, with a commitment to providing décor that is both respected and cherished. Rugport believes that the floor is much more than a place to rest one’s feet. It’s a blank canvas just waiting for beautiful décor.
However, Rugport is more than just a destination for exquisite rugs. The Palatine location offers a comprehensive range of services, including expert cleaning, restoration, and repairs—even for the most challenging projects. Additional offerings include customizations to ensure each rug complements any home’s style, alterations to refresh older rugs, professional stain removal, and top-tier appraisals. Rugport also serves as a trusted resource for rug education, assisting first-time buyers and seasoned collectors alike at every step of the buying or restoration process.
With over 60,000 square feet of space and an inventory valued at more than $20 million, Rugport offers pieces to suit any home. Whether the style leans toward fashionably avant-garde,
aligns with current trends, or reflects a transitional aesthetic, the selection is designed to meet a variety of needs. Specializing in hand-knotted modern, contemporary, antique, masterpiece, and traditional oriental rugs, Rugport provides stunning options for any room.
Striving to ensure that every client leaves one of the three showrooms confident, Rugport ensures their clients are in good hands. The team is committed to going the extra mile in customer service and takes pride in educating clients on the purpose, style, and functionality that rugs bring to a home.
Rugs are not just floor coverings or places to wipe off shoes during the cold winters—they are the center point of any room. Just like the homes people live in, they hold memories. They are placed at the center where families gather around the dining room table each night after routine days of work and school. They are set in living rooms or dens while groups of friends have game nights or catch up after time away. They provide comfort when we climb the staircase at the end of a long day, warm our feet after an unwinding shower, and guide us through hallways during the night.
Rugport knows this. With this intention, they ensure each client leaves their showrooms with not just a new rug, but a piece that will hold their memories for years to come.
Rugport, 23 S. Northwest Highway in Palatine, 847-202-0600, rugport.com, @rugportorientalrugs
LPublisher’s Profile
WORDS BY STEVEN BLOCH, M.D. PHOTOGRAPHY BY MONICA KASS ROGERS
PLASTIC SURGERY UPDATE: Bespoke Facelift
ooking your best takes work. Aging is inevitable. At some point, our reflection in the mirror looks older than we feel. This creates anxiety. We can either ignore it or seek the advice of a plastic surgeon.
As part of a consultation, a thorough evaluation is made of the face. Not everyone ages the same. Factors to be assessed include laxity of skin; loss of volume; excess volume; underlying bone structure; skin texture and wrinkles; position of eyebrows; position of cheeks; appearance of eyes; laxity of neck including platysmal bands and submental fat; and appearance of the lips.
The patient’s desires and concerns are paramount. A mutual plan must be agreed upon, costs must be considered, and risks assessed. I must also determine if the patient is realistic.
A bespoke facelift involves more than just tightening the skin. To create a natural look, what is done beneath the skin is important. At a deeper plane the soft tissue may need to be repositioned. Platysmal neck bands should be addressed. Jowls are lifted. Buccal fat may need to be reduced. Volume or fat grafting may be indicated. Excess fat needs to be removed and the area sculpted. Repositioning of the eyebrows, usually elevation may be warranted. Occasionally the upper lip needs to be shortened. I might have to remove excess skin and underlying bags around the eyes, and this is typically done at the same time. Sometimes fat is added along the rim or upper cheek. Finally, the skin may need to be resurfaced to address fine lines and wrinkles. If everything is done correctly, the result should be a more youthful, refreshed look. It should not look “operated” on.
Once you’ve completed your facelift it’s important to maintain it. At our Med Spa, we have a host of treatments that can slow the aging process and enhance one’s appearance. If that person in the mirror is older than you feel, perhaps it’s time to come in for a consultation.
For additional information, visit bodybybloch.com or Dr. Bloch can be reached at his Highland Park office at 847-432-0840.
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PARTING WORDS
THE GOOD, THE BAD, AND THE ALGAE
University of Cambridge’s Christopher Howe shares the health and environmental benefits of algae.
WORDS BY MONICA KASS ROGERS / ILLUSTRATION BY ROBERT RISKO
Decades before Christopher Howe became a venerated University of Cambridge biochemistry professor, he was a young boy so fascinated with science that his parents allowed him and his brother to convert the family’s spare bedroom into a chemistry lab. “They were great about it,” Howe recalls with a smile. “It was pretty clear by the time I was 7 or 8 that my life’s work would be in science.”
What wasn’t yet clear was that 30-plus years of Howe’s research would be dedicated to the study of photosynthesis in plants and algae.
Howe chose this twin focus because photosynthesis, at a biochemical level, is “one of the most important processes on the planet” and algae organisms are unsung heroes with a lot of potential for planetary good.
“About half of the CO2 removed from the atmosphere each year is used by oceanic algae, which is amazing,” explains Howe. “Also, the ocean’s coral reefs owe their health to a symbiotic relationship with algae: The algae live within corals’ cells, nourishing them. If environmental changes disturb the symbiosis, the algae are lost, and coral bleaching occurs.”
Yet, despite the benefits of algae, people tend to think more about algae’s darker side—particularly, the blooms of blue-green algae in lakes and rivers that can be toxic. And so, algae are relegated to a “nuisance” status.
To reshape such perceptions, Howe enjoys doing the occasional “algae image-building” presentation for the public. He highlights algae’s importance as a food and food additive noting that the food-safe blue dye used in many foodstuffs is from algae and that agar jelly is derived from algae. Howe also explores algae’s potential for reducing the use of fossil fuels.
“My aim with such talks is to persuade people that although algae may be an inconvenience in their ponds or lakes, it has a lot of big economic and environmental benefits,” says Howe.
When Howe first began his career as a research scientist, he was interested in understanding how photosynthesis worked and how the genes for it developed over billions of years. To gain these insights, he initially focused on plant photosynthesis. After a colleague shared her studies on photosynthesis in bacteria, including blue-green algae, Howe broadened his research.
“I really fell in love with how beautiful algae are,” he recalls. “At the time, algae were seen as a quirky, niche thing to study, but I was convinced, and rightly so, that we could learn a lot from quirky, niche things.”
Among the outgrowths of these studies, Howe and his team began looking at applications for algal photosynthesis. Realizing that algae can produce small amounts of electrical power, Howe and other researchers are now studying how to harvest that power. He theorizes that algal photosynthesis could provide an alternative to photovoltaic cells and could even power computer chips. Other teams have developed environmentally friendly food packaging made from algae.
Howe is excited by the potential positive impacts of algae on our planet’s future. “Next time you dismiss algae as just slime in your pond, please think instead of them as our friends. They are on our side.”
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4 0 W O O D L E Y R O A D, W I N N E T K A listed at $5,350,000
