Private Bank experience and expertise—now even closer to home
Come visit our new Private Bank office in Northbrook!
Fifth Third Private Bank has the unique skills and experience required to provide financial guidance and consultation for high and ultra-high net worth individuals and businesses. Our local Chicago team is committed to bringing together a comprehensive strategy that helps you and your family meet your financial goals—today, tomorrow and for future generations.
We are well positioned to provide you with expertise in:
• Comprehensive wealth solutions
• Custom investment advice and management
• Holistic financial planning
• Sophisticated wealth planning
• Custom credit
• Trust, Estate and Guardianship services
We’ve designed our solutions and services to address complex financial needs, and to provide the utmost flexibility to help meet your personal wealth management goals as they evolve over time.
This is your story, and we’re here to help ensure the best is yet to come.
OAKBROOK CENTER | WOODFIELD MALL
#1 in luxury north shore
@properties Christie’s International Real Estate is the #1 brokerage for luxury sales on the North Shore and across Chicagoland. Our leading market share creates maximum opportunity for buyers and sellers, while our partnership with the world-renowned Christie’s auction house seamlessly connects clients to the premier market for art and luxury goods.
Glencoe, Highland Park, Lake Forest, Lake Bluff, Northfield, Glenview, Northbrook, & Deerfield).
FEBRUARY 2025
FEATURES THE PLAYMAKER
Former NFL athlete Ryan Mundy is tackling gaps in healthcare with his company Alkeme Health.
TIMEOUT
Child Development Specialist Marissa Kates helps parents and children to thrive in their busy lives.
NATURAL GROWTH
The continuing evolution of Leah Bostrom’s brand—Chia Leah.
GUTS AND GLORY
Lifeway Foods CEO Julie Smolyansky has been creating milestones and setting trends for a quarter-century.
ON THE COVER
Ryan Mundy featured in The Playmaker. Photography by Katrina Wittkamp, styling by Theresa DeMaria
Marissa Kates featured in Timeout. Kates is wearing a Simkhai dress, Neiman Marcus Northbrook. Photography by Katrina Wittkamp, styling by Theresa DeMaria, hair & makeup by Leanna Ernest
Founder & Publisher
Editor-in-Chief
Associate Publisher
Executive Director of Operations
Contributing Editors
Style Director
Style Editor
Social Media Director
Contributing Writers
Art Director
Production Manager/ Graphic Designer
Senior Graphic Designer
Graphic Designers
Contributing Photographers
Contributing Illustrator
Advertising Sales
Advisory Council
J.W. CONATSER
DUSTIN O’REGAN
JENNIFER STURGEON
KEMMIE RYAN
MORGAN HOGERTY, MEGAN WEISBERG
THERESA DEMARIA
ALLISON MELONE
REDDING WORTH
THOMAS CONNORS, MONICA KASS ROGERS, JOE ROSENTHAL
JORDAN WILLIAMS
LINDA LEWIS
AMIN QUTTEINEH
ABDON LOERA, SAM SUAREZ
IAN MCLEOD, MARIA PONCE, MONICA KASS ROGERS, KATRINA WITTKAMP
ROBERT RISKO
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
Cheers to our first issue of 2025—the Health & Wellness issue! The start of a new year naturally inspires reflection while fueling anticipation for the future. And while I love nostalgic ballads from my teen years like Jack & Diane or the Summer of ’69, I’m setting my sights forward this year, ready to embrace new opportunities and stories, eager to spotlight the extraordinary men and women of the North Shore.
Art & Artist highlights the creative journey of Matt Schaefer, whose paintings have captured the hearts of many North Shore collectors. Exhibition visits the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry to see the popular James Bond exhibition through the eyes of curator Dr. Voula Saridakis.
In First Class, we explore Europe’s happiest capitals, Copenhagen and Helsinki, home to breathtaking architecture, elevated cuisine, warm hospitality, and scenic vistas. In Recipe, Food Editor Monica Kass Rogers serves up her favorite vegetarian dish—a Russian Vegetable Pie with Whole Wheat & Nut Flour Crust. A perfect choice for a cozy and guilt-free meal.
Our cover star is Ryan Mundy, former NFL athlete turned tech entrepreneur. Ryan is on a mission to make therapy accessible to all, especially for clients who’d like to see a therapist who looks a little more like them. Next up, we sit down with Child Development Specialist Marissa Kates, mother of three and founder of Playroom Pro, a boutique counseling service for young families. Our third feature highlights Leah Bostrom, known as “Chia Leah,” whose small-batch, health-focused products make nourishing your body a treat. Our fourth feature introduces Julie Smolyansky CEO of Lifeway Foods, the leading U.S. Brand of kefir with a worldwide distribution. Julie explains how she made Chicago the kefir capital of the world. We round out our features with a compilation of the North Shore’s top doctors.
Heading to Winnetka, Home Tour takes us inside a breathtaking estate designed by Cindy Rinfret. Finally, we introduce Dr. Sandra Scheinbaum, founder and CEO of the Functional Medicine Coaching Academy. In Parting Words, she discusses how her company bridges the gaps in traditional healthcare, where factors like nutrition, stress, and sleep aren’t always addressed. Wishing you all a healthy 2025.
WEARING
Moncler on the slopes
In this month’s Shore vs. City, we meet Winnetka’s Emily Reynolds, founder of Emily Reynolds Wellness, who shares what gets her heart racing—whether in the city or on the shore.
Veriphy “cleanical” skincare is featured in Newsworthy
Marissa Kates with her daughters. Kates is wearing an ALC blouse and Simkhai pant, Neiman Marcus Northbrook. Girls are wearing Zara Kids. Kates is featured in Timeout
Invest with Intention
MAKE THE SHIFT FROM DREAD TO DREAM
Coach Dave partners with middle-aged high-achievers struggling with:
• Feeling stuck or lost
• Leadership roadblocks
• Self-doubt
• Loss and grief (job, relationship, family)
• Indecision or worry about what’s next
• Imposter Syndrome
DAVE O’CONNOR Owner, Coach
AGENDA
SAVE the DATE
Sheridan Road provides the North Shore’s comprehensive social calendar.
EDITED BY DUSTIN O’REGAN
THROUGH FEB 23
FRIDA...A SELF PORTRAIT
WHERE: The Alexandra C. and John D. Nichols Theatre, Writers Theatre
Iconic Mexican painter Frida Kahlo was a woman who lived boldly, loved wildly, and painted prolifically to see herself and the world around her more clearly. Witness this extraordinary figure come to life onstage through playwright and performer Vanessa Severo, who brings breathtaking physicality and raw honesty to this stunningly creative production directed by Joanie Schultz. writerstheatre.org
THROUGH FEB 23
POSITIONS: NEW LANDSCAPES
WHERE: The Hyde Park Art Center
The Hyde Park Art Center presents a group exhibition featuring works by six Chicago-based artists–Lydia Cheshewalla, Kelly Kristin Jones, Norman Long, Zakkiyyah Najeebah Dumas O’Neal, Elsa Muñoz, and Leticia Pardo–who explore the potential of landscape in contemporary art to contribute to timely conversations about relationships between sites and history, place and belonging, and environmental justice and land stewardship. Working in a diverse range of media including photography, sculpture, sound, installation, and painting, the artists in the exhibition curated by Mariela Acuña reinvent the traditional genre of landscape to explore its capacity to intervene in civic dialogs rooted in place. This exhibi-
tion is generously supported by the Abakanowicz Arts and Culture Charitable Foundation Research and Production Fund. hydeparkart.org
THROUGH FEB 28
THE BIG PICTURE: PHOTOGRAPHY 2025
WHERE: Anne Loucks Gallery, Glencoe Acclaimed Canadian photographers Joshua Jensen-Nagle and David Burdeny take viewers on an inspired journey with their stunning, large-scale images from all corners of the world. The two artists offer distinct perspectives exploring global landscapes, iconic settings, memory, and the natural world in the gallery’s annual fine art photography exhibition. Toronto artist Jensen-Nagle is well known for his captivating photographs of beaches, mountains, parks, and other grand spaces. In his work, details of romantic vistas and dramatic architecture become a distant memory as he transforms his images into a dream state for the viewer.
Vancouver artist Burdeny explores both opulent and austere settings, as well as meditative landscapes and vistas, always using the sensuality of color and light to its full, dramatic effect. loucksgallery.com
FEBRUARY 7
FIRST LOOK FOR CHARITY
WHERE: McCormick Place
First Look for Charity stands as one of Chicago’s greatest one-day fundraisers, regularly generating nearly $3 million for 18 area nonprofits. Guests can direct the proceeds of their ticket purchase to any or all of
the 18 charitable organizations that benefit from this extraordinary night. Held at McCormick place the evening before the Chicago Auto Show opens, it is anticipated by socialites and car buffs alike. Enjoy drinks, elegant hors d’oeuvres, and desserts while being the first to explore the nation’s largest auto show. chicagoautoshow.com/first-look-for-charity
FEBRUARY 15
CHICAGO YOUTH SYMPHONY
ORCHESTRA GALA
WHERE: Four Seasons Hotel Chicago Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestra celebrates the power of music at its 2025 Gala. Proceeds from the Spanish Rhapsody-themed evening directly support CYSO’s acclaimed programs, which engage students from throughout the Chicago area. This support enables CYSO to provide exceptional musical education to the next generation of talented musicians, nurturing a lifelong love of music while ensuring access to world-class training for all regardless of financial circumstances. cyso.org
FEBRUARY 15
BLACK CREATIVITY GALA
WHERE: Griffin Museum of Science and Industry
The Black Creativity Gala honors the indispensable and significant contributions of Black creators, innovators, and artists who bring their esteemed talents and vision to science, technology, engineering, the arts, and mathematics. Guests will enjoy live musical
performances, dancing, daring culinary adventures, and the 2025 Black Creativity Juried Art Exhibition, the nation’s longest continuously running African American art show. This evening of elegance carries out Griffin MSI’s mission to be a resource of learning and creativity for the entire city of Chicago and beyond, through inspiring the next generation of Black leaders. msichicago.org
FEBRUARY 21
ART IN MOTION
WHERE: Wildman BT, Chicago Hosted by the Associate Board, the 22nd annual Art in Motion event aims to raise more than $500,000 for Shirley Ryan AbilityLab’s Art Therapy and Therapeutic Recreation programs—unique and healing programs supported exclusively through philanthropy. Enjoy a lively cocktail party with music, refreshments, and patient artwork on display. Meet the artists and bid on their artwork throughout the night. sralab. org/artinmotion
FEBRUARY 22
2WENTY 5IVE: ARTS OF LIFE BIRTHDAY PARTY & BOOK LAUNCH
WHERE: Seven Star Venue Space, Rogers Park Arts of Life celebrates its 25th anniversary with a kick-off event for its new book 2wenty 5ive – Arts of Life 2000-2025 The book launch event will honor Wilmette resident and arts supporter Cindy Shanker for her commitment to the Arts of Life community. Arts of Life is a studio/gallery with locations in Chicago and Glen-
AGENDA
view that advances the creative arts community by providing artists with intellectual and developmental disabilities a collective space to expand their practice and strengthen their leadership. artsoflife.org
FEBRUARY 22
APRÈS SKI/ASPEN
WHERE: Conway Farms
Golf Club, Lake Forest
The 118-year-old Allendale Shelter Club is hitting the slopes this winter with a new name, Allendale Women’s Board, and an exciting fundraiser, “Après Ski/Aspen.” The indoor/outdoor party will bring this beloved post-ski celebration to Lake Forest with cocktails and champagne, fire pits, and VIP yurts paired with a menu designed by Chef Paul Kahan of One Off Hospitality. Allendale Association is a nonprofit child welfare agency based in Lake Villa dedicated to the care, education, treatment, and advocacy of disadvantaged youth in Illinois. allendale4kids.org
FEB 20 – MARCH 2
GOLDEN HOUR
WHERE: Lyric Opera House, Chicago
The Joffrey Ballet presents Golden Hour, a radiant mixed repertoire program of warmth and splendor. Featuring world premieres by Dani Rowe and Yuri Possokhov, the return of Cathy Marston, and an audience favorite by Nicolas Blanc, the curated program welcomes audiences in from the cold to experience the light of these four immersive works. Golden Hour will be presented in ten performances only. joffrey.org
FEB 26 – APRIL 9
GLENCOE NEW MOMS
GROUP
WHERE: Takiff Center, Glencoe
Join ParentConnect’s new moms group to meet local moms and connect about the inevitable ups, downs, joys, and struggles of early motherhood. Each of the six sessions will focus on a parenting topic, with
organic discussion facilitated by two local moms and child development experts. Learn about your baby’s development, share knowledge mom-to-mom, and build a support network to lean on as your child grows. The group meets weekly on Wednesdays (with no class on March 26) and is open to moms with babies 0–6 months old. joinparentconnect.com
FEB 28 – MARCH 1
NEJLA YATKIN DANCE PERFORMANCE
WHERE: Studio5, Evanston Nejla Yatkin, a Guggenheim fellow, choreographer, and global artist, brings an interactive, solo dance theater performance, Ouroboros, that takes the audience on a transformative journey. Inspired by her nomadic ancestry, Yatkin incorporates original composition, multiple languages (English, German, Turkish, movement, and ASL), live music, and a fusion of dance styles, including contemporary and
Middle Eastern dance. Similar to a nomadic gathering, the performance weaves together and invites active audience participation in a journey of memory, place, and paradoxes. studio5dance.com
FEBRUARY 28
HPDS GALA
WHERE: Bryn Mawr Country Club
Hyde Park Day School celebrates 25 years of serving bright children with learning disabilities at its annual gala. All proceeds are allocated to the school’s Bright Futures Scholarship Fund. hydeparkday.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 6
YOUTH OF THE YEAR COMPETITION AND DINNER
WHERE: Aon Grand Ballroom at Navy Pier, Chicago
Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago award the organization’s highest honor rewarding leadership, service, and academic standing to one exemplary member. bgcc. org/yoy
Joshua Jensen-Nagle, Floating Over the Hamptons, 43 x 57 in. On view in The Big Picture: Photography 2025. Anne Loucks Gallery, Glencoe. Through February 28
CLEANICAL SKINCARE
Veriphy is redefining skincare with an approach called “cleanical”—clean, natural ingredients that yield proven clinical results. For Veriphy, it’s not just about keeping ingredients pure; it’s about delivering real, visible results. The journey began with a groundbreaking discovery of PhytoSpherix®, a vegan form of glycogen, known for its impressive anti-aging and hydration benefits. This powerhouse ingredient became the foundation for a brand built on purity and proof. Veriphy prioritizes high concentrations of PhytoSpherix® in every product, carefully combining it with other natural, sustainably sourced ingredients for maximum effectiveness. Veriphy’s transparent approach means rigorous lab testing, sharing clinical results, and letting the products speak for themselves. For anyone seeking skincare that’s fresh, fun, and seriously effective, Veriphy’s “cleanical” line has it all. For more information, visit veriphyskincare.com.
WELL BEING IN A BOX
Source & Self offers an extraordinary world of brands curated to nourish your body, mind, and soul. The wellness company sources clean-living favorites plus indie brands from around the globe, cultivating sustainable solutions for people and the planet. Visit Source & Self to find everything you need to elevate your health and well-being. For more information, visit source-self.com.
HAIR RAISING
Balmain Hair marked its 50th anniversary with a collection of three luxurious hair perfumes, crafted by award-winning perfumer Cécile Zarokian. These unisex fragrances are designed to elevate your hair’s natural allure while leaving a lasting impression. Cardamom 1974 offers a sophisticated yet accessible blend of cardamom, rose, patchouli, and vanilla, balanced by bright citrus and fruity notes, evoking the confidence of wearing a Balmain blazer. Vetiver 1974 reflects Balmain’s core values of empowerment through robust woody notes of vetiver, cedarwood, and balsams, complemented by florals and zesty rhubarb for an exciting, grounded scent. Ginger 1974 embodies the iconic Balmain silhouette with a bold, sensual fragrance of ginger, fir balsam, suede, and white musk, ensuring you stand out. Each fragrance is carefully formulated with premium ingredients to provide an elegant and captivating olfactive experience for your hair. For more information, visit balmainhair.us.
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
CAHILL OWNERS
BRANDON DELFINO & CHRIS MCNELLY
SHORE CITY
EMILY REYNOLDS, a Winnetka native, lives in her hometown with her childhood sweetheart, their three children, and two beloved dogs. After years of struggling with autoimmune challenges and finding limited success with traditional treatments, Reynolds took charge of her health. By transforming her diet, embracing consistent movement, and mastering stress management, she achieved a near-complete recovery, feeling her best since her teenage years. Inspired to help others, she became an Integrative Nutrition Health Coach and founded Emily Reynolds Wellness to empower women to better their health through sustainable lifestyle changes. Reynolds set aside her appointment book 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 DORIA DEBARTOLO
What’s on the horizon? Expanding my coaching business where I work one-on-one with women of all ages and stages Mantra? Nourish to Flourish Best grooming tip? Wear SPF and floss your teeth daily Guilty pleasure? A tie between my sauna blanket and red light face mask Favorite foods? Blueberries and salmon Music you love? Goose, Khruangbin, and Gracie Abrams Best advice ever given to you? “Life is choices” Best advice you’ve given? Your vibe attracts your tribe Earliest memory? My little sister sneaking into my room to chat when we were supposed to be asleep When you wake up, you? Stretch and drink a giant glass of water Before bed, you? Silence my phone
and pick up a book or needlepoint What’s on your bookshelf? Good Energy by Dr. Casey Means, Atomic Habits by James Clear, and a stack of cookbooks. You can’t live without? My husband and kids Love to escape to? Our cabin up north—it’s my happy place where I feel most grounded Advice you would give to your younger self? Don’t be so hard on yourself. You are enough just as you are
ON THE SHORE IN THE CITY
Your style is? I’d love to say something chic, but typically sneakers and workout gear—I’m always on the move Can’t leave the house without? My to-do list and water bottle Transportation? Preferably my feet or my bike—in almost all-weather Driving music? Podcasts. I love Wiser Than Me with Julia Louis-Dreyfus and The Mel Robbins Podcast Place to eat? Tala Coffee Roasters, Towne & Oak, Sophia Steak Shop? The Lake Forest Shop, Arch, The Classic Stitch Best thing about the Shore? Being close to our parents, sisters, and extended family Worst thing about the Shore? No hills The perfect day is? Walking the dogs with my husband, watching my kids’ games from the bleachers, and cooking a big dinner for family and friends. I’m happiest with a crowded dining room table
Your style is? Easy! Jeans, sweater, flats, great coat, and bag Can’t leave the house without? My phone and sunglasses Transportation? Metra and Uber Driving music? We love concerts, so whatever band we’re heading to see Place to eat? Aba, Le Colonial, Chicago Cut Steakhouse Shop? SPACE 519, Credo Beauty, Jayson Home Best thing about the City? The energy, the people, the sports teams Worst thing about the City? Trying to get there The perfect day is? Seeing belugas at the Shedd Aquarium, eating dinner somewhere new, and catching a good show with friends at The Salt Shed
Emily Reynolds wearing Akris fluted sleeve dress, Neiman Marcus Northbrook
HEALTH CARE
RETHINK THAT RESOLUTION
Admit it. You were one of millions of people who woke up on January 1 with the best of intentions: Get to the gym, go to barre, hit the Pilates studio, fill-in-the-blank. Let’s be honest, life gets in the way. There’s already enough pressure in our lives, so no need to add more. Resolutions can feel like an all-or-nothing proposition, and most people ditch them by February.
Let’s rethink the whole equation. Sleep. Spend time with friends. Limit scrolling, and instead, close your eyes and breathe slowly. Does this sound more doable? Good. Those are three major things you can do to improve your health. Yes, major. They represent a newer wellness practice called lifestyle medicine.
Lifestyle medicine (LM) puts lifestyle change as the foundation of health care—using evidence-based therapeutic interventions to prevent, treat and even reverse diseases by replacing unhealthy behaviors with positive ones. While components of lifestyle medicine are incorporated in other types of medicine, LM practitioners see it as the first treatment option for many patients, prioritizing healthy behaviors to prevent, treat and reverse chronic illness.
Many consider lifestyle medicine to be where medicine is headed: shifting from sick care to well care, reactive to proactive. It comprises six pillars or ways, as shown in the illustration on this page.
“What it takes to improve our overall wellness is just some time and movement,” says Dr. Jeffrey Damaschke, an associate professor and chair of the Lifestyle Medicine Department at Rosalind Franklin University (RFU) of Medicine and Science. He challenges people to “perform at least 150 minutes per week of aerobic activity. This would mean 30 minutes of moderate aerobic activity at
least five times per week. Moderate physical activity would be anything that makes your heart beat faster and includes brisk walking, water aerobics, riding a bike, dancing, doubles tennis, pushing a lawn mower or hiking.” Moving more and sitting less—even just a little—can really improve your physical and mental health.
That’s just one pillar. Here’s another: “Eating more whole, minimally processed plant foods is a great way to achieve a nutrient-rich diet while minimizing excess calories, added sugar, processed fats and potentially harmful substances that could contribute to increased risk of chronic and degenerative diseases,” says Dr. Melissa Bernstein, associate professor and chair of RFU’s Department of Nutrition. She adds that good nutrition can combat chronic diseases, including obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, chronic kidney disease, gastrointestinal conditions, cancer and autoimmune diseases.
Think about some of these pillars: Sleep, movement, friends, food. Lifestyle medicine is shifting the way people think about and implement wellness and health care. There’s no need to make (or break) a resolution. It’s just a lifestyle, and it can change everything.
Lifestyle medicine programs are just one way Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science is solving tomorrow’s health care challenges today for the people and communities they serve. Learn more at rosalindfranklin.edu.
Sponsored content provided by Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science.
WHY REVISING YOUR ESTATE PLAN DURING DIVORCE IS CRUCIAL
WORDS BY MICHONE J. RIEWER
PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATRINA WITTKAMP
STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA
As a divorce attorney, I’ve seen firsthand how critical estate planning is during and after the divorce process. The truth is, no one wants to think about their own mortality, especially during the emotional upheaval of a divorce. But failing to update or create an estate plan can lead to devastating consequences for your loved ones, especially children.
Recently, one of our clients passed away unexpectedly in the middle of their divorce. Unfortunately, she hadn’t updated her will or powers of attorney. Her estranged spouse, still legally married, inherited everything—money, assets, even control over medical and legal decisions before her death. This wasn’t the outcome she wanted, and her surviving family was left with no legal recourse. Even the assets that went to the children were controlled by the estranged spouse.
This heartbreaking situation serves as a stark reminder: your estate plan is just as important as dividing assets and creating parenting plans. In Illinois, revising your will, and creating or updating powers of attorney for health care and property, is not only wise but essential to protect your wishes.
Why Act Now?
In Illinois, if you pass away without a will while your divorce is pending, your estranged spouse will inherit a significant portion of your estate under the state’s intestacy laws. Even after your divorce is finalized, certain trust provisions may remain in effect if not proactively addressed.
• A Will Protects Your Intentions:
While Illinois law (755 ILCS 5/2-8) allows an ex-spouse to be removed as a beneficiary automatically after a divorce is finalized, the same protections don’t apply during the divorce process. Without an updated will, your spouse will inherit under default laws.
• Powers of Attorney Safeguard Your Decisions: Powers of attorney for both health care and property allow you to designate someone you trust to make decisions for you if you’re unable to do so. If these documents haven’t been updated, your estranged spouse could still have the authority to make medical and financial decisions on your behalf.
Can a Spouse Challenge a Will?
Under Illinois law, a spouse has the right to challenge a will by renouncing it and claiming their elective share, which is typically one-third of the estate if there are children, or one-half if there are none. While this might seem like a complication, having a will still provides clarity and limits the spouse’s ability to claim more than the statutory share. Without a will, the entire estate could
pass to the spouse under intestacy laws, leaving all of your assets to the spouse you are trying to divorce, instead of your children or other family members.
What Steps Should You Take?
If you’re going through a divorce, here’s what you need to do to protect your estate and ensure your wishes are honored:
• Draft or Revise Your Will: Work with an attorney to ensure your assets go to the right people, even during the divorce process.
• Update Powers of Attorney: Name someone you trust to handle medical and financial decisions for you.
• Review Beneficiary Designations: These are separate from your will and govern who inherits retirement accounts, life insurance, and other payable-on-death accounts.
The Bottom Line
Revising or creating an estate plan during a divorce isn’t just about money—it’s about ensuring that the people you care about are taken care of according to your wishes. Without a plan, the law will decide for you, and those decisions might not align with what you would have wanted.
As painful as it might feel to think about, taking these steps is a way to protect the future of your loved ones. Don’t leave your estate to chance. Consult with an experienced family law or estate planning attorney to make sure everything is in order.
Strategic Divorce is here to guide you through every aspect of your divorce, including ensuring your estate plan reflects your new reality and protects your family. Contact us to protect your rights and your legacy.
Michone J. Riewer is an attorney with Strategic Divorce in Lake Bluff, 847-234-4445, strategicdivorce.com.
Michone J. Riewer
THE BEST REPLACEMENT WINDOWS
We are a window & door company dedicated to delivering outstanding services from the first consultation to the last inspection.
WINDOW INSTALLATION
No matter if you have one window or 1000, our team of licensed experts will help you each step of the way. All of our windows feature fully customizable hardware recessed into the frame for a modern appearance and state of the art functionality.
DOOR INSTALLATION
We offer a large selection of colors, styles, and high-quality materials for exterior doors for your home. Our team of knowledgeable experts will help you select the best door for your home.
“We just installed all new windows at our house and we love them! Before we made our decision we went to the manufacturer’s plant to see how the windows are made. We were concerned at first because Russ’s price was more than half of his competitors quoted price. After our tour we were very comfortable with our decision. Installation day was quick and painless. Our house was left in great condition. I highly recommend this company!”
The One for You Now in Lake Forest
At Jameson Sotheby’s International Realty, we are curators of the unique —connecting the world’s most unique homes with the buyers who appreciate their potential. Our commitment to crafting unparalleled experiences for our clients and advisors sets us apart as a global luxury real estate leader. We are proud to announce the expansion of our North Shore footprint, with an office now open in Lake Forest.
THE ATHLEISURE EDIT
FASHION
ASPIRATIONAL ATHLEISURE
EDITED BY ALLISON MELONE
GRAND OPENING
SMITH’S MEN’S STORE RECEIVES A WARM WELCOME IN WINNETKA
Trey
Gonzales and Kip
Helverson continue to bring timeless fashion to the North Shore.
WORDS BY JANIS MVK PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATRINA WITTKAMP
For 88 years, Smith’s Men’s Store in Lake Forest has been a pillar of refined men’s apparel. Now, with five successful years notched in their fine Italian leather belts since reopening, owners Trey Gonzales and Kip Helverson are thrilled to bring their carefully curated selections and sophisticated offerings to Winnetka.
When Gonzales and Helverson took ownership of the men’s clothier cornerstone, their goal was clear: to preserve the timeless tradition of a classic men’s store at the heart of the community. Their commitment to offering exceptional products and services, and the positive feedback from local communities and clients, reinforced the idea of expanding to Winnetka to do just the same.
Many customers from the surrounding areas of and in Winnetka were already making regular trips to the Lake Forest men’s shop. “There was clear market demand for a men’s clothing store in that area,” says Helverson. “They often asked when we would open a store closer to their neighborhood, which signaled a strong appetite for what Smith’s has to offer.”
“We’ve also noticed a shared culture and sensibility between Winnetka and Lake Forest,” says Gonzales. “While each community has its own distinct personality, many of the men share similar lifestyles and dress in comparable ways.”
The owners decided to take that next step in polished oxfords, and in November, opened the doors to their Winnetka shop. “The timing felt serendipitous as this expansion aligned with the fifth anniversary of our reopening of the Lake Forest store,” says Gonzales.
Known for classic American style for the modern man, Smith’s styles draw heavily from American and English influences while introducing new Italian lines. The stores feature an extensive range of sportswear and casual attire, as well as sports coats, suits, and tuxedos. Additionally, Smith’s has long been a trusted provider of formalwear rentals. For those seeking a more personalized fit, Smith’s provides made-to-measure programs for shirting, trousers, blazers, and suits.
“We’re particularly proud of our bespoke offerings, crafted by our team of skilled tailors, including a Master Tailor,” says Helverson. “Bespoke clothing is designed, cut, and stitched in our shop for a truly custom experience.”
Customers can expect a mix of their favorite sportswear brands, including Peter Millar, johnnie-O, Alan Paine, and Martin Ding-
man shoes alongside expertly tailored clothing from Samuelsohn, Oxxford Clothes, and Alden shoes. “Whether shopping for casual clothes or looking for the perfect suit, Smith’s offers a refined, yet approachable style designed for every occasion,” says Gonzales.
Smith’s Men’s Store continues to uphold the tradition of being a true men’s haberdasher, offering clothing and services for every aspect of a man’s wardrobe. As they make their mark in Winnetka, Gonzales and Helverson remain focused on excellence, providing the same high-quality, personalized experience that has defined the Lake Forest location. “A key part of our success in Lake Forest has been hiring employees who are deeply connected to the community. They live and work here, actively participate in local organizations, and many are parents with children attending nearby schools. We aim to continue this approach in Winnetka. When you walk through our doors, you’ll likely be greeted by someone you know or share a connection with, fostering a sense of familiarity and community,” says Gonzales.
Smith’s Men’s Store is located at 839 Elm Street in Winnetka, 847881-3380, and 770 N. Western Avenue in Lake Forest, 847-2345866, smithsmensstore.com, @smithsmensstore.
Owners Kip Helverson and Trey Gonzales in Smith’s Men’s Store’s new Winnetka location.
Smith’s Men’s Store’s Winnetka location.
With Merrill, the bull always has your back.
We’re bullish on your future. When we work together, you get personalized guidance, insights and financial planning — all designed to connect your life with your finances and to help make the path toward your goals even clearer.
Artist Matt Schaefer shares his pursuit of the inexplicable presence of beauty
Artist Matt Schaefer at his studio in Evanston.
Photography by James Gustin
ART & ARTIST
TRAVELING HOPEFULLY
Evanston artist Matthew Schaefer tunes into his powerful creative impulse.
WORDS BY THOMAS CONNORS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAMES GUSTIN
Hungry Kitty
, 66 x 48 in., oil on canvas
STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA
ART & ARTIST
“I seek further knowledge about existence and life, and I think where you find that is in beauty, the inexplicable presence of beauty.”
Art isn’t always easy on the eyes. From Wassily Kandinsky to Willem de Kooning, Anselm Kiefer to Jean-Michel Basquiat, painters have long challenged the concept of a “proper” picture. Tweaking form and content, they’ve expanded our visual reality, opening our eyes to new ways of seeing. Casual museum or gallery-goers often dismiss seemingly extreme works of art as bids for attention, a selfish need to shock. But for Evanston artist Matthew Schaefer, the creative process can’t be categorized so simply. As he explained in a video produced by the Skokie Public Library, “As I apply the pigment, I try to enter a meditation state where I bring my focus to that point where the paint is touching the canvas at that moment, to hold my focus there while I am doing this and I think that helps transfer what might loosely be termed intuitive energy to the canvas.”
Raised on the East Coast in an art-appreciating family that regularly visited museums, Schaefer attended Silvermine College of Art in New Canaan, Connecticut, where the curriculum included drawing, painting, design, and art history classes. Thanks to the encouragement of his family and his experience at Silvermine in the late ‘60s, which he describes as “Very progressive for the times … rebellious in its own nature,” he pursued art with a passion, moving from a dark palette to an almost Fauvist exuberance. Along the way, his consciousness and artistic sensibility were expanded by various encounters, including a depiction of the Crucifixion by Rembrandt that presented him with the “realization of a visual order beyond the intellect.”
Essentially abstract but embedded with representations of the female form, “a muse that has haunted me through my life, haunting because of its elusive behavior between desire and understanding” and the built environment, Schaefer’s work possesses a shattered, vibrating quality, a kind of impressionistic-meets-ex-
Matt Schaefer in his studio
Western Avenue, 56 x 38 in., oil on canvas
ART & ARTIST
pressionistic tension. These works don’t resolve quickly to the eye, but neither do they repel our glance. “The nature of my style,” he explains, “refers to my inner self, which unconsciously energizes my artistic decisions. The use of color is completely inspired by the moment.”
There is an “of-the-moment feeling” in every aspect of his work, a sense of spontaneity, an immediacy that underscores the essence of painting as action, as gesture. “In my painting world, there are two types of paintings,” he observes. “One represents objectivity. One represents subjectivity. One is material, one is immaterial, one is illusion, one is medium … it’s really how our brain takes it in, whether we go to an illusionistic space, when we’re seeing a scene, or whether we’re present with a surface.”
Decades into his career, Schaefer still delights in the process of art making, the uncertainty—adept as he is—that accompanies the search for a true image. “I seek further knowledge about existence and life, and I think where you find that is in beauty, the inexplicable presence of beauty.” Pursuing beauty, finding a way to pin it down in paint, is an ongoing journey. “I continue to develop the skill,” he shares, “and you do that by pushing your skill, always pushing your skill to the limit, or even a little bit beyond, especially that little bit beyond, because that little bit beyond what you don’t know, makes you edge your way along. What are you edging toward? I guess, a clearer idea of how to live your life in a positive way.”
For more information, visit artisallshesaid.com.
Red Rider, 36 x 48 in., oil on canvas
To Stand Still, 50 x 60 in., oil on canvas
“Do one thing every day that scares you.”
– ELEANOR ROOSEVELT
FAMILY CENTERED APPROACH
SHANA VITEK is an Equity Partner at Beermann LLP, the largest family law firm in the country. For more than 20 years, she has practiced divorce and family law— handling a wide range of cases, including divorces for business owners, high-profile, and high-net-worth clients. Her ability to handle any type of case has allowed her to become one of only a few attorneys in Illinois to be Board Certified in Family Trial Law by the National Board of Trial Advocacy. “Every family is different, so each case that I handle needs an individualized approach,” she says. “All initial consultations include information about the alternatives to litigation and keeping the divorce process out of court.” In addition to being a litigator, Vitek is also a trained mediator, arbitrator, and collaborative attorney who serves as Chair of the Beermann LLP Family Law Clinic. “We feel strongly about giving back to the community,” she says. “Given the size of our firm, we are in a unique position to make a big difference for clients who would otherwise go unrepresented in family law matters.”
Most rewarding part of what you do? Helping people through a very difficult time and watching them get to a more positive place in their lives.
How should women support other women? By forming relationships with each other, both at the peer level and through mentorship. Women have unique career challenges, so it is extremely valuable to connect with other women in similar professional and personal situations.
Powerful woman you admire the most? Ruth Bader Ginsberg. She stayed true to herself and her goals, while being a wife and mother in a time when she had to fight for every opportunity.
For more information, visit beermannlaw.com and follow @shanavitek on Instagram.
Dress by Burberry from Neiman Marcus
TRENDING
ARTFUL LIVING
Highland Park native DEB LUND has long appreciated the vibrancy of Chicago’s downtown and its suburbs. A single mother, she finds immense joy in raising her two children—Jasper, 17, and Fiona, 16. Her cherished Golden Retrievers, Queenie and Bebe, complete the family. A seasoned interior designer with over three decades of experience, Lund is the founder and creative force behind Deb Lund Interiors, a boutique design studio. Renowned for her sophisticated approach and intuitive understanding of design and decor, she brings a refined aesthetic to every project. An avid collector of contemporary art since her early 20s, Lund collaborates with curators and experts, guiding her clients to build meaningful, personalized art collections. For her, integrating fine art into a home’s design is the cornerstone of creating inspiring and enduring spaces. Outside her professional pursuits, Lund channels her creativity into the culinary arts, crafting wholesome, imaginative dishes like her celebrated tofu tomato sauce. Her home is a warm gathering space for family and friends, where she hosts dinner parties marked by laughter and connection. Beloved weekend activities include park outings with her dogs, bike riding on the lakefront trail, attending the opera, the Chicago Shakespeare Theater, and various art exhibits, and rooting for the Bulls and Blackhawks. Lund takes a break from her art curation and fabric samples to share how she stays on-trend.
EDITED BY MORGAN HOGERTY
PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATRINA WITTKAMP
STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA
HAIR & MAKEUP BY FRANCES TSALAS
ON HER NIGHTSTAND
“Table For Two by Amor Towles. Towles writes with such wit, humor, and sophistication. I’ve enjoyed reading his other novels and was excited to start his newest. Also, Don’t Just Sit There! by Biet Simkin, who weaves the world of pop culture and spirituality, teaching practical applications of ancient spiritual wisdom to everyday life. It’s important for me to work on my full self—mind, body, and spirit.”
“The Free Press. I appreciate the honesty and integrity of the articles and the writers, who publish investigative and provocative commentary about the world. Also, Duolingo—I have always wanted to speak French and began taking lessons a year ago. Duolingo is a convenient way to practice between classes.”
IN HER EARBUDS
“Death of an Artist podcast tells fascinating stories about the lives (and deaths) of American artists. They are suspenseful, informative, and expertly produced. Be My Guest with Ina Garten is another favorite. I enjoy cooking, and Ina has fantastic ideas for delicious, practical recipes. Her conversations with her featured guests are often very amusing! I also love The Row’s Spotify Playlists. I enjoy listening to various music genres including jazz, folk, indie, and classical. The Row’s carefully curated playlists offer a unique combination of great pieces.”
Deb Lund wearing TOCCIN dress, Neiman Marcus Northbrook
ON HER MOBILE
MORE SPY CRAFT MAGIC
The Griffin Museum of Science and Industry extends its blockbuster 007 Science: Inventing the World of James Bond exhibit.
WORDS AND PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY BY MONICA KASS ROGERS EXHIBITION IMAGES COURTESY OF GRIFFIN MUSEUM OF SCIENCE AND INDUSTRY
Curator Dr. Voula Saridakis
When staff at the Griffin Museum of Science and Industry (Griffin MSI) first proposed exploring the intersection of science fiction and science fact through James Bond films, they didn’t know if the concept would fly. But Eon Productions, the UK-based owner of the Bond film franchise, “loved the idea from the start,” says Dr. Voula Saridakis, one of Griffin MSI curators who helped bring the exhibit to fruition.
Public response to the resulting exhibit has been phenomenal. Since opening on March 7, 2024, more than 150,000 visitors have come through 007 Science: Inventing the World of James Bond, making it one of the most popular exhibits in Griffin MSI history. The museum has extended the exhibit’s run through the spring and added new artifacts, giving more viewers a chance to see the science behind the cool cars, spy wear gadgets, nifty gizmos, and stunts featured in the Bond films.
“This is the first exhibit ever,” explains Saridakis, “to explore the science, technology, and engineering behind the James Bond films’ stunts, cars, and artifacts,” with an emphasis on how the movie franchise took ordinary objects and gave them extraordinary properties to help solve challenges.
Partnering with the Ian Fleming Foundation, Eon Productions, the International Spy Museum, and others, Griffin MSI filled the exhibit with nearly 100 artifacts and 14 cars. Many of the items foreshadowed technologies that are real science today.
Those suction cup wall-walkers Bond used to lower himself into the villain’s lair in You Only Live Twice (1967) didn’t exist in the real world when the film was made. The exhibit pairs them with gecko-inspired gloves developed by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency that truly can support the weight of a human body scaling a glass wall.
Another display features the jet suit from Thunderball (1965) that Bond used to fly from a chateau to his car in the film’s opening sequence. Developed by Bell Labs as a prototype, decades later it inspired Richard Browning, CEO and founder of Gravity Industries, to develop his popular Daedalus Flight Pack jet suit.
And then there’s the pager Bond uses in From Russia with Love (1963). “In the 1960s, these pagers were only used by hospitals
and first responders and weren’t really recognized by the general public,” Saridakis explains. “So, to see that technology in a movie before pagers became quite common is another great example of how these artifacts prefigured science that came to be.”
“Our hope,” says Saridakis, “is that people will come away from the exhibit inspired to think outside the box to find solutions, just as characters in Bond films do, using resourcefulness and ingenuity to solve challenges in their own lives, communities, and the world at large.”
To create this inspiration, the exhibit’s interactive displays go far beyond the typical. “Each interactive display gives a goal; some kind of mission objective,” Saridakis explains. “You are then tasked to meet the requirements for that mission by creating a specific gadget, vehicle, or stunt, and at the very end you learn whether you were successful or not.”
For automobile aficionados, the chance to design a vehicle is a big draw. So too is seeing many of 007’s magnificent rides up close including the battered Aston Martin DBS V12 from Casino Royale (2006), which is in the Guinness Book of World Records for performing the most barrel rolls in any movie. “In the exhibit, we demonstrate how the stunts with that car were performed and the engineering behind them,” notes Saridakis. “A screen behind the car shows how the stunt looked in the finished movie, and how it looked in real life as it was being filmed. Connecting one with the other is a great insight into movie stunt magic.”
The chance to peek behind the curtain at the science of making the unreal real has universal appeal. “It’s fascinating for people to see that intersection between science fiction and science fact with a healthy dose of popular culture thrown in,” sums Saridakis. “The appeal is multigenerational. The James Bond movie franchise is the longest-running in cinematic history. So, for more mature visitors there’s a sense of nostalgia. And younger visitors who may not have seen the films still come away inspired to find ways they can take the ordinary and make it extraordinary. Our mission at Griffin MSI is to inspire the inventive genius in everyone, and this exhibit does just that.”
For more information, visitmsichicago.org.
Griffin Museum of Science and Industry 007 Science: Inventing the World of James Bond exhibit.
FIRST CLASS TRAVEL EXPERIENCES AND DINING
A JUBILANT JOURNEY
Tour two of Europe’s happiest capitals— Copenhagen and Helsinki—in this month’s First Class
Colorful houses along a canal in Copenhagen. Photography by Jolkesky.
COZY COPENHAGEN AND HOT HELSINKI
Join me on a journey through two European capitals consistently ranked among the happiest in the world. In this adventure, we explore Copenhagen and Helsinki, where stunning architecture, delicious cuisine, friendly people, and picturesque water views await at every turn.
WORDS BY DUSTIN O’REGAN
Our Scandinavian adventure began in Copenhagen, a city bursting with charm. Its winding canals, cobblestone streets, bridges, and colorful facades create a storybook setting, while its many neighborhoods each offer a distinct personality.
We made the NH Collection Copenhagen, (nh-collection.com) perched on the Inner Harbor in the Christianshavn neighborhood, our home base. Translated as “Christian’s Harbor,” this area is named after King Christian IV who created artificial islands hoping to draw Dutch merchants to Copenhagen. Today, it is an idyllic, high-end district within walking distance of almost everything.
Originally built in 1957 by Danish architect Palle Suenson as the headquarters for shipyard Burmeister & Wain, the five-star NH Collection Copenhagen opened in 2021 following an extensive renovation that includes subtle maritime nods to the building’s original tenant. For example, the entryway art installation Ever Mighty—Forever Transforming is named after the last ship built at the shipyard.
Sustainability plays a key role in NH Collection Copenhagen’s operations. The hotel is committed to reducing its environmental
impact, featuring a Green Sedum Roof and a Seawater Cooling System. These initiatives have earned the hotel prestigious DGNB Gold and Green Key certifications.
The hotel’s decor is fresh, modern, and distinctly Danish. My spacious suite featured enormous windows offering a beautiful view of the city and Christian’s Church. All guest room windows are equipped with black-out curtains to help guests adjust to the famed Scandinavian “white nights,” when sunlight lingers long into the night. In July, for instance, the sun rises around 4:30 a.m. and sets at approximately 10:00 p.m. Although this phenomenon gives you more time to enjoy the city, it would make for little sleep without the aid of said curtains.
After a blissful slumber, each morning I would enjoy a hearty Nordic-inspired breakfast at the hotel’s restaurant. I adored the traditional koldskål made with buttermilk, yogurt, mint, and lime and topped with a tiny biscuit. The attentiveness of the hotel staff was another reason for my daily return. Their every gesture reflects the hotel’s motto “Feel the extraordinary.”
After catching glimpses of dapper Danes bicycling to work— with a hat or scarf placed just so—through the restaurant’s windows, I was not surprised to learn there are more bicycles than
FIRST CLASS
people in Copenhagen. The city promotes cycling (imposing hefty taxes on automobiles) and has recently pledged to become the world’s first carbon-neutral capital city.
On our first day, we opted for a guided walking tour with Slow Tours Copenhagen (slowtourscopenhagen.dk), a smart choice as it gave us a deeper understanding of the city’s rich history and culture and made later navigation a cinch.
At our first stop, the Vor Frelsers Kirke, we learned a wonderful way to admire the sweeping city views is to scale the spiral outdoor staircase of the Baroque church’s gilded tower. Note that this memorable climb is not for the faint of heart.
Just beyond this magnificent church lies Freetown Christiania, a unique area that once served as an autonomous hippie commune. Founded in 1971 and long controversial for its drug trade, the district is undergoing renovations as longtime inhabitants aim to push out the “troublemakers.” The area’s fascinating history, vibrant murals, and eclectic shops make it an intriguing place to visit.
We continued our exploration north to the island of Holmen, the former grounds of the Royal Naval Base now filled with boutiques, design centers, and the new Royal Danish Opera House.
This massive cultural center, funded by the owners of the shipping company Maersk, is the most expensive opera house ever built, costing over $500,000,000.
For lunch, we dined at Væksthuset in Opera Park (væksthuset.dk), enjoying traditional smørrebrød—open-faced Danish sandwiches (a staple of Scandinavian cuisine) made from sustainable, locally foraged ingredients. The restaurant’s sundrenched interior and grass-covered roof enhanced the feeling of being embraced by nature.
After lunch, we took to the water, booking a canal cruise with Goboat Cruise (goboat.dk) to take in the city’s neighborhoods. Our boat tour highlighted the city’s deep connection to the sea. Copenhagen’s clean waters (the cleanest in Europe according to our guide) are perfect for swimming, but only in designated areas (visitcopenhagen.com).
Sated with sightseeing we headed to Il Bucco (ilbucco.dk) for dinner. A local favorite (opened in 2011), this eatery serves seasonally focused, Italian-inspired cuisine (made with 99 percent locally sourced ingredients) in a hip, industrial setting. My main course was a delicate ravioli in a house-made yogurt sauce, so delicious that I used the homemade bread to lap up every remaining bit. Dessert was a geranium ice cream topped with fresh berries (Denmark’s berries are otherworldly)!
The next morning, I ventured out alone to explore Slotsholmen, home to Folketing, the massive and stately Danish Parliament, and the historic Børsen, a 400-year-old stock exchange. Børsen was built in 1625 by King Christian IV. Once, this Dutch Renaissance-style building boasted red bricks, a teal green copper roof, a richly decorated interior, and a fanciful, distinctive spire formed
Copenhagen Opera House. Photography by alxpin
Vor Frelsers Kirke. Photography by steffie82
FIRST CLASS
by the intertwined tails of four dragons. For years it was said that the dragons protected Børsen from destruction. Sadly, in April 2024, an inferno engulfed large parts of the structure and toppled the spire. On that fateful spring day, even the dragons couldn’t put out the flames.
A heartwarming tale came out of the tragedy as soldiers, museum conservators, and even members of the public, ran into the burning building and climbed on each other’s shoulders to pull down artworks mounted high on the walls. This effort saved almost all the art except for a King Christian IV bust that weighed 4,000 pounds and could not be carried out. The city has promised to rebuild the beloved structure.
Crossing the street, I entered Strøget—the world’s longest pedestrian and shopping street. Running between Town Hall Square and The Kings New Square (“Kongens Nytorv”), the approximately 2-mile stretch includes a maze of small side streets and offers fabulous shopping and people-watching.
I then rejoined my friends at the Designmuseum Denmark (designmuseum.dk). This shrine to Danish design is located in a beautiful building originally built as the city’s first public hospital. The museum’s four wings house an extensive collection showcasing Danish textiles and fashion and furniture pieces from iconic Danish designers like Arne Jacobsen and Kaare Klint. I highly recommend getting the Copenhagen Card (copenhagencard.com), which offers free access to Designmuseum Denmark, other museums, and public transportation.
With our cultural curiosity satisfied for the day, we rode the incredibly clean subway to Tivoli (tivoli.dk), Copenhagen’s famous amusement park, which opened in 1843 and offered the inspiration for Walt Disney’s Disneyland. Tivoli isn’t your typical amusement park—you’ll find Michelin-starred restaurant pop-ups, one of Copenhagen’s priciest hotels (the Nimb Hotel, a stunning example of Moorish architecture), performances from the New York City Ballet and stars like Diana Ross, and a charming lake for boating. After hearing Denmark’s 84-year-old Queen Margrethe had recently ridden the park’s most popular attraction, “The Roller Coaster,” I had to try it myself. Built in 1914, it’s one of the world’s oldest wooden roller coasters and was indeed a thrilling ride. A huge fan of Tivoli, the Queen spends most of her time here working with the ballet on costumes and set design.
For lunch, we opted for Tivoli’s charming Kilden (kildenihaven. dk), a cozy restaurant with long wooden tables in a lush garden setting. I indulged in more smørrebrød—one a combination of potato and herbs and the other a delight of smoked salmon on herbed cream cheese crowned with a mountain of dill. It was gastronomy at its finest, a far cry from the Six Flags’ funnel cake.
That evening we dined at Meyers i Tårnet (meyers.dk), which is perched within a tower of the Danish Parliament building. The expansive city views coupled with a menu of seasonal ingredients and an impressive wine and cocktail list, made for an unforgettable dining experience. Since the restaurant sits in a government building, all guests must pass through security so be sure to allow extra time before your reservation.
On our last day in Copenhagen, we visited the iconic Little Mermaid statue. We began with a stroll through the picturesque Nyhavn (translated as “New Harbor” even though it was built more than three centuries ago). Lined with colorful townhouses and historic yachts moored in the canal, it is the city’s most touristy area and you might recognize Nyhavn as its image is universally found on Danish postcards. Along the way, don’t miss Frederik’s Church, also known as the Marble Church. Modeled after St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, its stunning Rococo architecture and grand dome dominate the Frederiksstaden neighborhood skyline. Nearby is the royal family’s winter residence, Amalienborg Palace, a collection of four Rococo buildings symmetrically arranged around an octagonal courtyard, with a statue of King Frederik V on horseback at its center. Continuing through a lovely park and passing the beautiful Gefion Fountain depicting a Norse goddess, you’ll arrive at Copenhagen’s most famous symbol—the small bronze statue of the Little Mermaid, perched on a rock at the water’s edge at Langelinie Pier. The statue was inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s beloved fairy tale and pays tribute to the city’s most cherished storyteller.
On our final night, we headed up to NH Collection Copenhagen’s rooftop eatery/bar, ROOF (roofcph.com). Our eyes were the first to feast as we admired the breathtaking views of Copenhagen’s copper roofs, waterways, and many spires. Once seated, we savored an assortment of seductive cocktails and exquisite dishes crafted by the hotel’s talented chefs.
Danish culture is centered around the concept of hygge—a feeling of cozy contentment and well-being—which we experienced throughout our stay. With hearts full, we bid farewell to our beautiful hotel and to Copenhagen, one of the cleanest and safest capitals in the world, as we set off for Finland, Denmark’s Nordic neighbor.
Colorful houses behind ancient bridge. Photography by Viacheslav Chernobrovin
NH Collection’s ROOF eatery and bar
FIRST CLASS
HELSINKI
After a smooth flight to Helsinki, the drive to our hotel offered a delightful introduction to the EU’s youngest capital, showcasing its Neoclassical and Art Nouveau architecture. Helsinki features a bustling harbor front, a grand main boulevard, towering cathedrals (en route to the hotel you’ll pass the massive Uspenski Cathedral), a myriad of islands, and a vibrant design scene.
When I began writing about this city, the first phrase that popped into my head was “Helsinki is hot.” After all sauna, pronounced “sownah,” is a Finnish word. Saunas are ingrained in Finnish culture; the first written record of the Finnish sauna dates to 1112, making it a way of life for more than 2,000 years and there are as many saunas in Finland as there are people. The Helsinki Ferris wheel, known as the SkyWheel, even comes complete with a sauna cabin, the only one of its kind in existence. In sum, the Finns love heat!
Finns are incredibly friendly and love coffee, consuming more coffee per capita than any other nation, averaging five cups a day. Perhaps this helps them adjust to the long days of the aforementioned Scandinavian “white nights.” Helsinki is home to countless charming coffee shops, and I highly recommend Kaffa Roastery.
We stayed at the NH Collection Helsinki Grand Hansa (nh-hotels.com), a perfectly located, historically significant hotel that merges two iconic Art Nouveau-style properties: the New Student House, built in 1910, and Seurahuone, Helsinki’s oldest continuously operating hotel. Over a 100-year history, the buildings have hosted countless dignitaries, from presidents to grand dukes.
The New Student House was designed by Armas Lindgren and Wivi Lönn, Finland’s most prominent female architect, while
Seurahuone is considered one of Lindgren’s greatest works. The Seurahuone building’s grand exterior is crowned by enormous soapstone sculptures by Johannes Haapasalo.
Inside the hotel, you are greeted by a rich heritage burnished by modern hospitality. Original architecture and finishes coexist with sleek, contemporary touches like the stunning lobby bar, metal-clad reception pods, and a decorative glass wedge wall. Finnish contemporary art by artists such as Tapani Mikkonen and Kristian Krokfors adorns the rooms and public spaces. My suite was the perfect blend of old and new, featuring an Art Nouveau glass shower, a small balcony overlooking the promenade, and modern furniture by noted interior designer Carola Rytsölä crafted in local workshops.
NH Collection Helsinki Grand Hansa’s Presidential Suite living room
The iconic domes of Uspenski Cathedral overlooking the SkyWheel and redeveloped warehouses on the waterfront of Helsinki harbour in the heart of Finland’s vibrant capital city. Photography by fotoVoyager
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The hotel’s Hansa Café Bar & Brasserie takes guests on a culinary journey, blending classic French cuisine with sustainably sourced local ingredients (hansacafehelsinki.com). For cocktails, the Kupoli bar, located in the historic dome-shaped tower, offers 360-degree views of the city (kupolibar.com/en). Here you will find meticulously curated cocktails that take libations to new “heights.” The USVA spa, inspired by the ethereal mist that drifts over Finnish lakes, offers a modern wellness experience rooted in ancient Finnish traditions. It includes a Finnish sauna, steam sauna, infrared sauna, and a serene relaxation room. We enjoyed a multi-sensory wellness experience, complete with a foot bath, face mask, and salt scrub in the steam room—deeply therapeutic. Adjacent to the spa, you will find an enormous gym—with every machine imaginable.
On our first night, we had an elegant dinner in the hotel’s Presidential Suite—a spacious, 646-square-foot apartment fit for royalty. We dined on fresh fish, foraged vegetables, and local wines, with a view of the Helsinki Central Railway Station, regarded as one of the world’s most beautiful train stations. Designed by Eliel Saarinen in 1919, the station’s entrance is flanked by colossal male sculptures, and its soaring clock tower is a marvel of ornate glass and metalwork.
The next morning, we dove into Helsinki’s famed Design District, full of hip furniture stores (Artek), design studios (Studio Sarpaneva), art galleries (Lokal Gallery), and museums (Designmuseo). Many of these facades feature Art Nouveau architecture, making the exteriors as captivating as the treasures you’ll find inside. After satisfying our design cravings, we strolled to Kaivopuisto Park and visited the charming former home of actress Ida Aalberg, now Restaurant Elm, known for its zero-waste philosophy and delicious sustainable fare.
In the evening, we wandered through Market Square or Kauppatori, browsed its vibrant fruit stalls, and took a ferry to Lonna Island to experience Lonna Sauna (lonna.fi). The public, woodfired saunas offer spectacular views of the Baltic Sea and neighboring islands. Like the locals, we alternated between the intense heat of the sauna and a refreshing dip in the icy sea. Our meal at the Lonna Restaurant, featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients, was equally unforgettable.
On our last day, we embraced Finland’s love of foraging at the Seurasaari Open-Air Museum, where we gathered wild herbs in a forest surrounded by the Baltic Sea (foraginginfinland.com). Our guide introduced us to the benefits of various plants like stinging nettle (an aphrodisiac) and creeping Charlie (rich in vitamin C).
NH Collection
Helsinki Grand Hansa’s Presidential Suite
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Afterward, on a rocky outcrop overlooking the sea, we enjoyed a traditional Finnish picnic of new potatoes, salmon, herbed butter, and blueberry pie, prepared by Chef Filip Forsberg of the Hansa Café Bar & Brasserie.
For our final dinner, we dined at Savoy (savoyhelsinki.fi), one of Helsinki’s most prestigious restaurants, designed by the famous architects Aino and Alvar Aalto. Our meal, a blend of Finnish and French flavors with a Russian twist, was enjoyed on the top floor’s glass balcony with a stunning view of the city. We capped off the evening with a stroll through the lively Esplanade Park, reminiscing about our wonderful trip to this energetic city.
Helsinki, with its friendly people, vibrant culture, beautiful design, and fresh food, deserves its accolades as one of the happiest cities on earth. Whether you’re soaking in the city’s rich history, indulging in its exquisite cuisine, sweating in its saunas, or simply enjoying a cup of coffee in a charming café, Helsinki offers a memorable experience. Don’t forget to pick up a Moomin mug or two for loved ones back home. Kippis!
Craving a European getaway to two Norse capitals rich in culture and brimming with warmth? This itinerary is sure to delight every traveler.
Helsinki South Harbor. Photography by Niklas Sjöblom
The NH Collection Helsinki Grand Hansa’s impressive exterior is crowned by enormous soapstone sculptures by Johannes Haapasalo
One of NH Collection Helsinki Grand Hansa’s Spa Saunas
RUSSIAN VEGETABLE PIE WITH WHOLE WHEAT & NUT FLOUR CRUST
WORDS
AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY FOOD EDITOR MONICA KASS ROGERS
Anna Thomas’ The Vegetarian Epicure-Books
One and Two were the first cookbooks I ever owned. Originally published in the early ‘70s, I bought them more than a decade later when I was out of college and eager to cook vegetables in a fresh and delicious way. Her Russian Vegetable Pie, filled with cabbage, onion, and mushrooms over a slather of cream cheese, was one of my first baking triumphs. I’ve made it many times since. But I altered the recipe to replace the butter with olive oil in the filling, switched to Neufchâtel instead of cream cheese, added a swirl of Dijon mustard at the base, and tucked the filling into a healthier whole wheat and nut flour crust.
I believe Thomas would approve. In her 1996 cookbook, The New Vegetarian Epicure, Thomas wrote that her earlier books, which would sell more than a million copies, were written when
vegetarianism was a popular idea, but vegetarian food was “pretty awful.” That first Vegetarian Epicure and its sequel captured the geist of a certain time. As Thomas wrote it was “a guilt-free era when butter and cream were used without a care and cheese ruled. Today, of course, our attitudes are different … we are all finding healthier ways to eat and enjoy lighter food.”
To make the pie, you’ll need a nice, small head of savoy cabbage, some cremini mushrooms, a good-sized yellow onion, and some fresh snipped French tarragon, basil, and dill. I like the texture and sturdiness of a whole wheat pastry flour crust (with almond flour added for a little extra nuttiness,) but you can make it gluten-free by substituting gluten-free flour for the whole wheat flour and omitting the mustard. If you need the pie to be dairy-free, substitute coconut oil (chilled until solid) for the butter in the crust and use vegan cream cheese-style spread instead of Neufchâtel in both the crust and to spread in the bottom of the pie.
RECIPE
Makes 1, deep-dish 9-inch pie
INGREDIENTS
For the pie crust
• 1 1/2 cups whole wheat pastry flour
• 1/2 cup almond flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 4 ounces Neufchâtel cheese (you’ll use the other half of an 8-ounce package in the pie filling)
• 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) ice-cold butter, cut into pieces
For the filling
• 4 large eggs, hard-boiled
• 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1 large yellow onion, peel discarded, finely chopped to make 1 cup
• 1 small head of savoy cabbage, roughly shredded (after cooking with the onion, you should have 4 1/2 cups) OR small head of regular cabbage
• 1 teaspoon salt, divided
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, divided
• Small sprig fresh French tarragon, leaves snipped to make 2 tablespoons
• Small sprig fresh basil, leaves snipped to make 2 tablespoons
• Small sprig fresh dill, snipped to make 2 tablespoons
• 1/2 pound cremini mushrooms, washed and sliced
• 4 ounces softened Neufchâtel cheese
• 2 tablespoons good quality Dijon mustard (Maille is very nice)
METHOD
Make pie crust
In a large wide bowl, combine flours with salt. Cut in butter and Neufchâtel cheese, using fingertips to lightly break butter and cheese into the flour until it resembles wet sand. Add 1/4 cup of water (plus small amounts more as needed) and mix until dough
gathers up into a ball. Divide dough in half. Roll 1/2 of dough into a large circle and fit into 9-inch pie dish, leaving excess dough overhanging rim of dish. Chill. Wrap second half of dough and chill.
Make filling
Place 4 eggs in their shells in pan of water. Boil for 6 minutes. Remove pan from heat to cool. Once cool, peel eggs. In a large sauté pan over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and chopped onion. Cook until onion is softened and translucent. While onion cooks, discard core from cabbage head. Cut head in half and roughly shred. Add 1/2 of the shredded cabbage to softened onion in sauté pan with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Cook, stirring until cabbage has cooked down and is tender. Remove to a bowl and set aside. Add another 1 tablespoon of oil to pan with remaining half of the cabbage, stirring until cooked down and tender. Remove to the bowl with the first portion of cooked cabbage and onion. Stir in snipped tarragon and basil. Add remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to sauté pan with sliced mushrooms. Add remaining 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Stir, cooking until mushrooms are cooked through. Remove from heat and set aside.
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Remove dough-lined pie plate and the other half of the pie dough from fridge. Spread 4 ounces Neufchâtel cheese on the bottom of the pie crust. Spread 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard over the cheese. Place half of the cabbage/ onion/herb mixture into the pie. Slice eggs and arrange over the cabbage. Sprinkle with the fresh snipped dill. Layer remaining cabbage/onion/herb mixture over this. Top with mushrooms, slightly mounding at the center. Roll out remaining pie crust. Place over pie, tucking and rolling top crust over the bottom crust around the edge. Flute and press edge to seal. Cut a few knife slits in top of pie to vent steam. Bake pie in preheated oven for 15 minutes. Reduce oven temperature to 350 degrees and continue baking for an additional 20 to 25 minutes until pie crust is golden brown. Remove from oven. Slice and serve.
INFINITE POSSIBILITIES
LAKE FOREST BRITT CARTER
HOME TOUR
ALLOFAPIECE
New York designer Cindy Rinfret infuses a Winnetka home with beauty and comfort.
Family room
vignette
WORDS BY THOMAS CONNORS / PHOTOGRAPHY BY WERNER STRAUBE / STYLING BY HILARY ROSE
HOME TOUR
There’s real joy in a beautifully balanced room, a sense-pleasing satisfaction in a space composed, yet far from constrained. Hitting that sweet spot is no minor achievement. And when a designer brings it all together, you could hardly ask for anything more. Case in point: this utterly perfect Winnetka residence fashioned by New York interior designer Cindy Rinfret.
Educated at the Rhode Island School of Design and the University of Copenhagen, Rinfret is an award-winning designer recognized for her “Classic Greenwich Style.” A reference to the comely Connecticut town on the Long Island Sound, Rinfret describes the aesthetic “as similar to Ralph Lauren or Hermès, a design that never looks dated, a collected look that reflects a life well lived.”
Rinfret’s task in Winnetka was to enhance the existing charm of her client’s traditional home while updating it to meet the needs of an active, young family. “This wonderful client, for whom I’ve since designed a second home in Arizona, had seen my own
house in the pages of Traditional Home magazine and called me because she loved the collected feel of it,” says Rinfret. “I think she liked seeing my Golden Retrievers in the article, too, because we both love dogs and feel that a home filled with children and animals can still be beautiful. This family did not want any room to be too precious and off-limits. Which dovetails perfectly with my belief that you should use and enjoy every room in your home.”
Rinfret begins every project by establishing a strong, workable floor plan so that each space has a clear function and then makes sure the rooms’ bones—moldings, ceilings, and cabinetry—are just right. “After that,” she says, “We go for the ‘jewelry’—beautiful rugs, fabric, and art.”
Shades of blue pervade the residence, from the foyer—where a console table from Holland MacRae is outfitted with a cushion at floor level for the family dog to enjoy—to the millwork of the wet bar, the wallpaper adorning the primary bathroom, and the living room’s chenille sofa. The family room is a sea of blue, with contrasting hints of gold in the carpet and upholstery piping. The sunroom’s coffered ceiling sports a whitewash highlighting a pale blue “sky.”
Looking into the living room
Breakfast room Living room
HOME TOUR
Rinfret orchestrated a rich play of wood and upholstery throughout the home, punctuating each space with unique accent pieces. The living room displays a wide variety of sumptuous fabrics, from the cotton-lined Roman window shades to the hand-knotted, antique Agra rug that spans the floor to the faux snakeskin pattern on the seat of an armchair with fluted legs.
Rinfret’s informed furniture and accessories choices provide a pleasing sense of visual weight and geometry. An antique French trumeau mirror makes a dramatic focal point in the foyer. Curves rule in the living room, from the rounded arms of the sofa and easy chairs to the John-Richard accent tables with etched, gilded detail and the oval iron coffee table from Salvations Architectural Furnishings. The seating in the sunroom—gathered around a large, iron-based ottoman with a tufted, faux leather top—sports a sofa with a unique, almost crenelated back. She anchored the family room with a sectional sofa and added beams to the vaulted ceiling to create a comforting, cocooning effect. “Family rooms are places to gather to watch the ball game or Netflix as a large group, with the dog and the kids curled up with you. I always love a large sectional in a family room to cuddle into with a great throw blanket,” notes Rinfret.
Blending beauty with real life, this Winnetka home epitomizes Rinfret’s design style. “My design motto is that ‘your home should feel like jeans with a silk shirt and a cashmere sweater.’ To me, that means a casual yet luxurious design that feels comfortable and inviting.”
For more information, visit rinfretltd.com.
Primary bedroom vignette Family room
Sunroom vignette
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HOME STYLE
GO GREEN
Girls THRIVE at Woodlands.
A Catholic, Independent, College-Preparatory Day and Boarding High School for Girls
SAY YES TO THE ADDRESS
WHAT CLIENTS ARE SAYING
“We have bought and sold multiple homes across the US and Susan was by far the BEST agent we have ever worked with. Her attention to detail and suggestions for preparing the property for sale were great. The negotiations, paperwork, and closing was seamless. We highly recommend her for all your real estate needs! The property sold in 5 days, $55,000 over asking!” – Steve, Highland Park
THE PLAYMAKER
Former NFL athlete Ryan Mundy is tackling gaps in healthcare with his company Alkeme Health.
Alkeme Health founder Ryan Mundy
WORDS BY JOE ROSENTHAL / PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATRINA WITTKAMP STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA
Throughout his football career, Ryan Mundy racked up one impressive stat after another. At Woodland Hills High School outside of Pittsburgh, he set a school record with 54 career receptions and earned USA TODAY All-American Prep Honors.
After playing at Michigan as a true freshman and transferring to West Virginia University, Mundy was drafted by the Steelers in 2008, was a member of the Super Bowl XLIII championship team, and also played in Super Bowl XLV against the Packers in 2011. After a stopover with the New York Giants, Mundy landed with the Bears, where he started all 16 games of the 2014 season, logging 108 tackles, 4 interceptions, and 4 broken-up passes.
But when his career abruptly ended at age 31, hastened by a back injury, Mundy found himself struggling with what to do with life after football and was dealing with anxiety and depression.
“I found myself in this very peculiar situation. I had money and resources, but I was not finding providers or spaces that were designed for me,” he recalls. Not surprisingly, he says, his personal experience is shared by others in the Black community.
“Sixty percent of the Black community say it’s hard to access quality healthcare, and almost 80 percent lack trust in the healthcare system,” Mundy explains. He adds that “78 percent of Black patients need insurance to access mental healthcare, but 60 percent of therapists don’t accept insurance.” The trends were troubling and personal. In his extended family, Mundy had also been watching his relatives deal with type 2 diabetes, heart attacks, stroke, and Alzheimer’s.
His awareness of these dismal numbers and his own frustrating experiences pointed to an opportunity in the healthcare sector for this businessman and entrepreneur (Mundy took advantage of the NFL’s education programs, earning an executive MBA from the University of Miami with additional studies at Notre Dame and Wharton). The timing was also fortuitous. The pandemic was shining a light on mental health like never before, and the Black Lives Matter movement was simultaneously prompting “a conversation about the importance of Black health in the country,” Mundy recalls.
And so, in late 2020, Mundy secured his first round of funding for Alkeme, a mental health platform dedicated to the needs of the Black community. With grit and determination that echoed his days in the NFL, Mundy solicited investment partners, built the platform, and captured the media world’s attention with coverage by TODAY, Forbes, and Entrepreneur magazine, among other outlets.
Alkeme’s initial offering was “like Calm or Headspace, with a more culturally aligned approach,” notes Mundy. The product quickly grew, but Mundy knew his team was just starting to move down the field. Last month, Alkeme took the next crucial step in Mundy’s quest to create generational health for the Black community by expanding into virtual health care.
“Visitors to Alkeme Health will be able to connect with a Black therapist who accepts insurance,” Mundy says, the excitement tangible in his voice. “We’ve been making a meaningful impact over the last several years, and now we’re just really focused on taking it to the next level.”
Mundy, former NFL athlete
“I definitely see a day where we expand our services beyond mental health into nutrition and weight management, into primary care, and into specialty care, to become a comprehensive platform focused and specialized in serving the unique needs of the Black community.”
“The opportunity presents itself for us right now to increase the number of therapists who accept insurance and create pathways for better accessibility and connection to those therapists,” observes Mundy. In addition, Alkeme will take on the burden of nonclinical activities like billing and claims submissions so that therapists can focus on helping patients. The virtual care offering will launch in Illinois this year and expand geographically in 2026.
Last summer, Mundy was joined in these efforts by Neechi Mosha, an M.D. by training whose experience includes Clarify Health Solutions and Boston Consulting Group. He’s the kind of teammate Mundy appreciated on the field back in his football days, someone with complementary skills and eager to play. With Mundy as CEO and Mosha as President, they plan to help course-correct health care for a population that’s faced mistreatment and misdiagnosis for more than 400 years.
“We’re starting with mental health, and that’s a beachhead and a wedge into the market for us, but I don’t see us stopping there,” Mundy says. “I definitely see a day where we expand our services beyond mental health into nutrition and weight management, into primary care, and into specialty care, to become a comprehensive platform focused and specialized in serving the unique needs of the Black community. That’s our big vision. But again, we are starting with a focus on mental health because a healthy life starts with a healthy mind.”
It’s a mission that resonates strongly with this husband, father of two girls, and resident of Highland Park. “When I came to Chicago in 2014, we didn’t know many people. And it has been probably one of the best things that has ever happened in my life. At this point, I can’t really see myself leaving.”
Now, with his playing field shifting well beyond the 100yard gridiron, Mundy has created a playbook for a healthy and vibrant community.
For more information, visit alkemehealth.com.
Mundy at home in Highland Park
TIMEOUT
Child Development Specialist Marissa Kates helps parents and children thrive in their busy lives.
Marissa Kates wearing ALC blouse and Simkhai pant, Neiman Marcus Northbrook
WORDS BY THOMAS CONNORS / PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATRINA WITTKAMP STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA / HAIR & MAKEUP BY LEANNA ERNEST
As any harried parent will tell you, children don’t come with an operating manual. While some parents may wish to raise their children the way they were raised, others opt for a different approach altogether. And of course, neither path may appeal to the child. Instituting discipline while encouraging personal freedom isn’t easy. This is especially true for young children who learn and experience many new things at once. Sometimes a little assist is in order; that’s where The Playroom Pro comes in.
Founded by Marissa Kates, LCSW, a licensed clinical social worker and child development specialist, The Playroom Pro provides parent counseling and parent coaching to support the various needs of families with young children. “My approach is centered on fostering a positive connection between parents and children,” says Kates. “I emphasize the importance of noticing and reinforcing the positive behaviors a child displays, creating a foundation of trust and mutual respect. Instead of immediately focusing on consequences, especially for first-time behaviors, I work with parents to uncover the underlying reasons or motivations behind a child’s actions. Consistency and routine are also pillars in my approach, as they provide a sense of security and predictability that supports both the child’s and the parent’s well-being.”
One might almost claim Kates was destined for this career. Raised in Buffalo Grove with a brother almost three years younger (“I was passionate in my role of older sister”), in her teen years she worked as a babysitter, camp counselor, and after-school nanny. Her grandmother, mom, and aunt all worked as therapists, and Kates earned a Bachelor of Science in Psychology from the University of Wisconsin–Madison, and her Master in Social Work from the Jane Addams College of Social Work at the University of Illinois Chicago.
Kates began her career working for the Early Intervention Program of the Illinois Department of Human Services at PlayWorks Therapy Inc. in Chicago. “We provided in-home therapy for children all over the city from a diverse array of neighborhoods. It was incredible to connect with parents and see how the dynamics of the home environment impacted the development, routines, and behavior of the children.” As her own family began to grow—she and her husband, Rich, are the parents of three girls under ten— Kates cut back on her workload and began to refocus, launching The Playroom Pro in 2020.
“Some of my favorite clients,” shares Kates, “are the ones who come in with a list of concerns about their children’s behavior, yet this behavior solely happens with the parents. The children’s teachers do not have any concerns, and the children are thriving in other environments. We know that there is something about the dynamic at home that can be influencing this behavior. Together, we take a look at the entirety of a child’s functioning—sleep, eating, sibling dynamics, peer relationships, and daily routine. Typically, there are several areas that might be supporting the behavior that we are looking to change, and by modifying the environment, we decrease the behavior. The magic is that this happens in a positive and nonconfrontational way.”
One of the biggest challenges Kates faces as a parent is managing sibling dynamics. “My husband and I each have a sibling of the opposite gender so while we think that three children of the same gender is magical, it is so foreign to us,” she shares. “There can be competition, and a lot of ‘that’s not fair’, and we want to increase our daughters’ empathy toward each other.”
Like Henry David Thoreau, who urged people to “Simplify, simplify,” Kates is big on cutting back. “Too many fights at
“Typically, there are several areas that might be supporting the behavior that we are looking to change, and by modifying the environment, we decrease the behavior.”
breakfast? Simplify by making a breakfast schedule—and have the kids participate in making it. Same thing with choosing outfits in the morning. Remove most of the clothing in the closet to make choosing easier.” And it doesn’t hurt for adults to edit their lives, either. “The idea of more, more, more is pervasive in our culture,” observes Kates. “We are more available and reachable. We have more information, more opinions being fed to us daily, making it harder and harder to know who or what to trust. Set boundaries for the time you’re available to others so that you can focus on your priorities.” Sounds like a plan for life in and out of the playroom.
For more information, visit theplayroompro.com.
Kates with her daughters. Kates is wearing Simkhai dress, Neiman Marcus Northbrook. Girls are wearing Zara Kids.
NATURAL GROWTH
The continuing evolution of Leah Bostrom’s brand— Chia Leah.
WORDS BY THOMAS CONNORS
PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARIA PONCE
STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA
HAIR & MAKEUP BY DORIA DEBARTOLO
Leah Bostrom wearing Burberry dress, Neiman Marcus Northbrook
Chia Leah Beet Hummus and Crackers
Change can come slowly or suddenly. It can be random or planned. It can be minute or monumental. But when it makes us feel better or more fulfilled, there’s nothing quite like it.
Leah Bostrom was staying home with her kids in Wilmette when “as a mom of young kids with food allergies, I was interested in learning more about nutrition,” shares Bostrom. She pivoted to become a health coach and healthy snack line creator, developing a brand identity as “Chia Leah.”
As a health coach, Bostrom recognizes getting in shape and eating well isn’t always easy. Bostrom, who received her health coaching certification through the Institute for Integrative Nutrition, didn’t get serious on this score until she was in her 30s. So, she understands the challenges but notes that no matter the individual’s genetics, health history, or lifestyle, three key elements drive success. “First,” she says, “it is imperative that we understand and trust the power of our intuition. What is your body saying yes to, what is your body saying no to? Second, to make a successful and sustainable change, we must be specific and consistent. This takes time. So many of us get frustrated because we don’t see change quickly enough. Third, habit change should not be
an overhaul of one’s entire lifestyle but a small daily change. For instance, one client used to come in from work exhausted and stressed and she’d go straight to the pantry looking for a salty snack. We identified that if she grabbed the leash for the dog before she even stepped into the kitchen, a quick walk around the block with her beloved pooch would leave her energized and ready to think about making dinner instead of mindlessly eating something from the cupboard.”
Like anything worthwhile, becoming a better you takes work. And sometimes, a mental reset is required. “Most client’s original goal is losing weight,” notes Bostrom. “Instead, if we shift the mindset to an overarching goal of longevity, so we can do the things we want to do now and for a lifetime—like someday lifting up our grandkids, traveling to exotic places—it takes the pressure off of ‘losing weight.’ Focus on what you gain in making changes, such as more energy, less stress, better sleep, happier joints.”
Bostrom’s foray into nutritional snacks began in 2015 when she debuted an oatmeal breakfast cookie at a farmers market. Vegan and gluten-free, her products are made with a host of healthy ingredients, including quinoa flakes, nutritional yeast, chia seeds, and fruit. In addition to that original breakfast cookie, the Chia Leah Clean Eats line-up includes Sweet & Spicy Granola, made
Chia
Leah Rachel Salad
Chia Leah Breakfast Cookies
with Himalayan pink salt, cayenne pepper, and organic cinnamon, Sublime Mango, dried mango slices drizzled with dark chocolate and lime, and the Rosemary Clean Cracker. Today, Chia Leah Clean Eats products are available online and at 30 local retailers, including Central Station Coffee & Tea, Sunset Foods, and The Grand. They are also on sale at Bostrom’s space at 3217 Lake Avenue in Wilmette, which she has dubbed Chia Leah Headquarters. “It houses our Chia Leah team, our commercial kitchen, our storefront market where we sell all of our offerings, plus other locally owned emerging brands that are in line with our health and wellness mission, and my coaching office, where I meet oneon-one with people or to coach small groups.”
“Our team has worked creatively and collaboratively to build the brand through networking, cold calling, lots of sampling, and learning from other local brands,” explains Bostrom. “My motto in learning about the food business has been, ‘I don’t know yet, but I’ll figure it out.’”
Figuring things out never ends. That goes double when trying to grow a business. “It’s time-consuming and stressful,” acknowledges Bostrom, whose latest endeavor is catered wellness workshops for corporations. “I prioritize my mental health by exercising each morning and by setting boundaries with work. I love what I do, but to stay sane, I don’t respond to emails or calls between 8 p.m. and 7 a.m. Instead, I hang out at home with anyone who will spend time with me, call my daughter away at college to discuss Survivor, and get to bed early. I also lean heavily on our Chia Leah team. I am lucky enough to work with absolutely incredible, dynamic people. We all care a lot about each other, and our motto is ‘family first.’ If we take care of ourselves and our family, we can come to work focused and dedicated. It helps that we always have healthy food here to nosh on.”
No time to nourish yourself and family the way you want to? Then stop by Chia Leah and grab healthy ready-to-go salads, hummus, crackers, energy bites, tea, coffee, and more. Find all these goodies and other local brands at Chia Leah 3217 Lake Avenue in Wilmette. For more information on Bostrom’s health coaching services, visit chialeah.com.
Bostrom wearing Veronica Beard, Neiman
Marcus Northbrook
Chia Leah Superfood Bark
GUTS AND GLORY
Lifeway Foods CEO Julie Smolyansky has been creating milestones and setting trends for a quarter-century.
WORDS BY JOE ROSENTHAL
Julie Smolyansky, CEO of Lifeway Foods. Photography courtesy
If fortune favors the bold, it should be no surprise that Lifeway Foods CEO Julie Smolyansky finds herself in her 22nd year at the helm of the leading kefir company in America. The path that led her family from an embattled Kyiv to the suburbs of Skokie to the height of business success has been anything but easy or ordinary.
It is worth surveying some highlights of her story as the breadth and depth of it are worthy of a book: Her great-grandparents were murdered in the 1941 Babi Yar massacre perpetrated by the Nazis. Somehow, her grandma managed to survive the rest of the war before marrying in 1946 and giving birth to Smolyansky’s father, Michael, in 1947. In 1976, he and Smolyansky’s mom arrived in Chicago with 1-year-old Julie.
While she was too young to remember, she’s told they landed here on a blistering summer day. They came with one suitcase packed with a few belongings including a “little pan to make farina and kasha.” Her dad was wearing a black leather jacket in the sweltering heat, holding fast to his Eastern European past but looking optimistically toward the future.
They settled at Morse and Greenview and wasted no time before getting to work. Smolyansky’s mom opened the first Russian deli in Rogers Park. Amid a five-location expansion of the deli business, in 1985 her parents attended a trade show in Cologne where her dad took a swig of kefir and suddenly realized “America has everything, but it doesn’t have kefir.” Her mom said, “Well, you’re an engineer. Why don’t you design a plant, start making it, and I’ll sell it through my distribution network?” And with that brief exchange, a groundbreaking company was born.
Lifeway Foods was launched in 1986 during perestroika when thousands of Soviets immigrated to the United States. They formed a built-in customer base for the 2,000-year-old cultured milk drink from the Caucasus Mountains. “They didn’t need marketing and advertising campaigns to consume kefir or farmer’s cheese,” Smolyansky says. “They grew up on it. It was nostalgic for them, and they were buying it like crazy. So, this became our bread and butter.” (Fun fact: At the height of the Cold War, to illustrate the effect of the Soviet “brain drain,” President Ronald Reagan brought a case to a meeting with Mikhail Gorbachev.)
Fast forward a few years. Flavors were added after a fortuitous meeting with the buyers at Dominick’s; distribution exploded and the company grew rapidly. Her dad, who was never formally schooled in business, visited the Skokie Library to research how to take the company public. In 1988, he became the first former Soviet immigrant to undertake an IPO.
“I remember trying the very first batches that my dad made in our basement in Skokie,” Smolyansky says. “I went to my very first demo at Treasure Island when I was 11 years old and attended my very first convention and trade show when I was 12 years old.”
Little did Smolyansky know, but the stars were aligning for her to take the reins of the family business. Smolyansky studied psychology at the University of Illinois Chicago, but ultimately fate intervened and propelled her back to Lifeway. “I came into my dad’s office and just said, ‘I need a break from mental health stuff, and I’m going to work in your office in data entry.’ And he said, ‘Sure, I’ve been waiting for this. Come on in.’”
Her father had focused on the Russian-speaking community, but Smolyansky saw an opportunity for a new audience. “I thought, ‘Kefir is so healthy. All of my friends should be drinking it. Why aren’t teenagers drinking this? Why aren’t yoga enthusiasts or runners drinking this?’” Following this opportunity, she led an expansion into California where the health food craze was on its strongest footing. This move led to nationwide distribution, consistent growth, and international expansion.
“My warrior spirit came out, and I said failure is not an option. I brought the company from $6 million in revenue to almost $200 million today.”
Tragically, in 2002 at age 55, her father had a sudden heart attack and passed away. A battle for control of Lifeway ensued, with some believing a twenty-something woman couldn’t lead the company.
“Of course, I was really angry and that gave me fuel for my fire. It sparked protectiveness. All the things that my dad taught me came out in that moment.”
An emergency meeting was held and the board elevated 27-year-old Smolyansky to CEO. She became the youngest woman ever to helm a publicly traded company, echoing the stock market milestone her father had achieved 14 years earlier.
“My warrior spirit came out, and I said failure is not an option. I brought the company from $6 million in revenue to almost $200 million today. And, in a category we pioneered, we’re the 95 percent category leader.”
Her pride is palpable when she lists some of the company’s accomplishments.
“We were the first company to launch a pouch product for kids in 2007. Now, 50 percent of baby food originates from a pouch product. Products made in Chicago are exported to Mexico, South Africa, and recently we announced a new distribution deal in UAE and Dubai, which is really exciting because of the people migrating to these countries from Russia and Ukraine. These migration patterns are creating a massive influx of people who know this product and don’t need much marketing.”
The health benefits of kefir, a probiotic, for mood, memory, and skin health are increasingly supported by science. Awareness of the “gut-brain connection” is growing. In fact, Smolyansky says, “During the filming of the movie Barbie, they hired a nutritionist on set, and she recommended kefir to all the actors and actresses to help them get beautiful glowing skin.”
These are the tailwinds that companies dream of. Against a backdrop of market excitement, Lifeway recently launched single-serve bottles of unique flavors like pistachio, matcha latte, and pink dragon fruit. They’re distributing Farmer’s Cheese, a low-calorie, small-batch, soft cheese (now popping up on TikTok), in 1,400 more stores and launching a new collagen smoothie product.
“We have a long runway and a playbook on how to get there. We’re very excited. We have improved shareholder value in the last five years by almost 1,200 percent. We increased our gross profit by 115 percent. Our revenue has almost doubled in size,” she shares.
Perhaps unsurprisingly, the plot twists haven’t stopped. At press time, current shareholder Danone had come bidding for the com-
pany, but the board quickly rejected two of the French giant’s offers, considering them undervalued.
Considering the battles she’s faced, Smolyansky brushes off this latest pursuit as par for the course. Thinking back to those early days as CEO, she recalls, “Everything was kind of crumbling underneath my feet, and I had no choice. You either sink or swim. And I decided to swim against the current, against all odds, against everybody laughing at me, saying you can’t do it. You can’t do it. I just said, ‘Watch me’ and I persevered.”
With all the emphasis on the business, one is left to wonder what else this CEO does to unwind. She’s a mentor (who acknowledges her own debt to Chicago trailblazers Oprah and Christie Hefner), author (The Kefir Cookbook), music fan (100 Pearl Jam shows and counting), runner (13 marathons), filmmaker (including The Hunting Ground, which covered the incidence of sexual assault on college campuses and October H8te about October 7 and how rape is used as a weapon of war), and founder of Test400K, a nonprofit working to resolve the backlog of 400,000 untested rape kits in the U.S. and end violence against women both domestically and globally.
For a leader in the health food space, it’s a track record that begs the question of sleep. “Honestly, I don’t watch TV,” she says with a laugh. “The last show I saw was a Sex and the City episode 25 years ago. But I’m proud of how I have used my time. I’ve been a social justice advocate all my life and have found ways to weave activism into both the nonprofit and for-profit realms of my life.”
For more information, visit lifewaykefir.com.
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Premier Doctors
Health and well-being deserve nothing short of exceptional attention, and these local physicians are delivering world-class care. Combining cuttingedge expertise with the latest advancements in medical technology—from cardiology to oncology and dentistry to dermatology—these doctors are redefining health care by putting the needs and goals of their patients at the forefront of every visit. Through personalized care strategies, they are dedicated to addressing the root cause, not just treating the symptoms. Join us in celebrating the North Shore’s talented doctors and discover the difference their individualized, top-tier care can make in promoting health, vitality, and overall well-being.
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MANOJ K. MEHTA, M.D., FACG, FASGE, AGAF; LAURA K. BIANCHI, M.D.
ENDOSCOPY CENTER OF THE NORTH SHORE
SPECIALTY: Gastroenterology
EDUCATION:
Dr. Manoj K. Mehta: Medical school, residency, and Gastroenterology fellowship, Rush-Presbyterian-St. Luke’s University Medical Center
Dr. Laura K. Bianchi, M.D.: B.S., University of Notre Dame; medical school and Internal Medicine residency, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine; fellowship in Gastroenterology and Chief Gastroenterology Fellow, Cleveland Clinic
Dr. Manoj K. Mehta is a Castle-Connolly and Chicago Magazine Top Doctor. He founded the Endoscopy Center to offer a personalized, cost-effective alternative to hospital-based GI care. He emphasizes studies that show colonoscopies can cost twice as much in a hospital setting. “Patients are led to believe that’s the best place for all routine care, and that’s not necessarily true,” he says.
Dr. Laura K. Bianchi, a trusted name in the community for more than 17 years, recently joined the practice after building a thriving career at Evanston Hospital. Known for her compassionate approach, she focuses on creating a collaborative patient experience. “Patients who have a good experience with their visit become more positively engaged in the teamwork that goes into keeping them healthy,” she says. Together, they are committed to the philosophy that patients come first. Both physicians are known for providing high-quality care, taking the time to listen to their patients, and empowering patients to make informed health care decisions. “Having our own facility allows us the ability to provide the personalized care that patients see slipping away,” Dr. Mehta says. “We have the flexibility to treat patients as everyone would wish to be treated—as we would want our own families to be treated.”
Drs. Mehta and Bianchi provide comprehensive consultations, endoscopy, and colonoscopy services in their fully accredited, ASGE-certified GI Lab. An on-site anesthesiologist and luxurious atmosphere ensure your safety and comfort.
The Endoscopy Center of the North Shore is located at 1732 Central Street in Evanston, 847-256-1855, ginorthshore. com, info@ginorthshore.com.
Dr. Laura K. Bianchi and Dr. Manoj K. Mehta
EDWARD KAPLAN, M.D.; MARLON KLEINMAN, M.D.
CITY OF HOPE® CANCER CARE NORTH SHORE
SPECIALTY: Oncology
EDUCATION:
Dr. Kaplan: M.D., Loyola University Chicago Stritch School of Medicine, Maywood; internal medicine residency and subspecialty training in hematology-oncology, Northwestern University as a Galter Fellow and a Bill Veek Fellow
Dr. Kleinman: M.D., Northwestern University Medical School; internal medicine residency training, Rush Presbyterian St. Luke Medical Center; hematology/oncology fellowship, Northwestern University
AWARDS/HONORS:
Dr. Kaplan: Board certified in medical oncology and internal medicine, American Board of Internal Medicine; appointed as assistant clinical professor in the City of Hope Department of Medical Oncology and Therapeutic Research
Dr. Kleinman: Board certified in medical oncology, hematology, and internal medicine, American Board of Internal Medicine; appointed as assistant clinical professor in the City of Hope Department of Medical Oncology and Therapeutic Research
Drs. Edward Kaplan and Marlon Kleinman are leaders in hematology and oncology, deeply committed to transforming cancer care through innovation, empathy and personalized medicine. Both are inspired daily by their patients—individuals who display extraordinary resilience in the face of life-altering challenges.
Dr. Kaplan emphasizes the importance of treating the person, not just the disease, believing in honest communication paired with optimism. With oncology advancing rapidly, Dr. Kaplan is excited about therapies targeting molecular and genetic changes. “They have provided a basis for an explosion in new therapies targeting those markers and providing better outcomes and cures, usually with less toxicity,” he says. “Biologic and immunologic therapies have augmented the benefit of traditional chemotherapy or even replaced chemotherapy in some situations.”
Dr. Kleinman shares this passion for precision medicine, hailing next-generation sequencing as a game-changer in understanding and treating cancer at its molecular core. “This has revolutionized our approach to diagnosis and therapy, allowing researchers and clinicians to study what drives the disease,” he says. “I believe that artificial intelligence will augment this to a scale and speed that was previously impossible.”
Together, Drs. Kaplan and Kleinman champion leadingedge care with compassion, redefining what’s possible in modern oncology.
City of Hope® Cancer Care North Shore is located at 9300 Waukegan Road in Morton Grove, 847-675-3900, cityofhope.org/northshore, @cityofhopechi.
Dr. Edward Kaplan and Dr. Marlon Kleinman
LORI HALVORSON, AUD; KRISTEN HALVORSON
DUET HEARING PRESERVATION
SPECIALTY: Hearing health care
EDUCATION: Loras College; Bradley University; Master’s in Audiology, Rush University; Doctor of Audiology, Arizona School of Health Sciences
AWARDS/HONORS: Doctorate and board certification in Audiology, American Board of Audiology; Mensa Member; Certified in Tinnitus; Crain’s Chicago Business Notable Healthcare Hero 2021; Road America Hearing Safety Partner; Humanitarian Hearing Leader
Dr. Lori Halvorson, founder of Duet Hearing Preservation and Lake Forest Hearing, has a mission that’s crystal clear: protect and preserve hearing for a lifetime. Along with her team, including COO Kristen Halvorson, she combines cutting-edge research with compassionate patient care to preserve the vital connection between the ear and the brain.
“New research has proven that hearing needs to be cared for before hearing cells die from noise exposure, medications, and diseases,” says Dr. Halvorson. “We can monitor the health of these cells and teach every ear, every age, everywhere how to keep these cells healthy for a lifetime.” Her groundbreaking ear-tobrain hearing fitness program emphasizes the brain’s role in processing sound. “Like keeping your muscles fit, our program keeps the brain fit, to quickly process the difference between consonant sounds,” she says. “Recent research has proven faster processing, not just louder, helps improve speech understanding in noise which will help reduce listening effort and the risk for dementia decline.”
This mother-daughter team’s commitment extends globally through humanitarian missions, where refurbished hearing aids transform lives in underserved communities. “Hearing is the most complex processing our brain must do. We treat hearing from the inside out to preserve hearing cells and help the brain age stronger,” she says.
Duet Hearing Preservation is located at 267 E. Westminster Road in Lake Forest, 847-295-1185 and Lake Forest Hearing is located at 400 Central Avenue in Northfield, and 1030 North Avenue, in Chicago, 847-295-1185, lakeforesthearing.com, @duethearing, @lakeforesthearing.
Kristen Halvorson, COO of Duet Hearing Preservation and Dr. Lori Halvorson with Bernard.
VLADA NAKHLIS, O.D.
EYESEE OPTOMETRY CLINIC
SPECIALTY: Optometry
EDUCATION: Illinois College of Optometry, University of Illinois Chicago
CERTIFICATIONS/PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS:
Board certified and member, Illinois Optometric Association; American Optometric Association; American Diabetic Association; American Academy of Orthokeratology and Myopia Control; College of Optometrists in Vision Development; OD Excellence; IDOC Professional Eye Care Associates of America; Illinois Optometric Association, Society of Contact Lens Specialists; Contact Lens Society; Ukranian Medical Association
Dr. Vlada Nakhlis is known for her expertise, dedication, and compassionate approach to eye health and patient care. With nearly 20 years of experience, she blends her medical, wellness, and prevention experience with ocular aesthetic treatments to provide an integrated approach to enhance overall physical well-being and appearance.
Specializing in myopia management therapy and ocular surface disease, her comprehensive expertise for all ages also treats inflammatory or obstructive eyelid disorders like rosacea and eczema, and complex eye conditions like glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, and macular degeneration. Using state-of-the-art technology and innovative treatments such as IPL, Low-Level Light Therapy, Thermal Pulsation, Radio Frequency, and Blepharo Exfoliation she ensures her patient’s eyes are not only healthy but feel good and look beautiful. An active member of professional organizations like the Illinois Optometric Association and the American Academy of Orthokeratology and Myopia Control, Dr. Nakhlis is equally committed to community service raising awareness about myopia, dry eye syndrome, and general eye health by hosting educational seminars and partnering with local organizations. In her surrounding communities, she offers pro bono services such as vision screenings for children at multiple athletic organizations and optical services for seniors at several local nursing homes and assisted living facilities. “I am proud to have built a reputation within the local medical community through a combination of providing accurate, evidence-based information, and collaborating with many health care professionals from primary care physicians to ophthalmologists,” she says.
EyeSee Optometry Clinic is located at 275 Parkway Drive, Suite 415, in Lincolnshire, 847-243-3330, dreyesee.com, @eyesee_optometry_clinic.
KRISTI TOUGH DESAPRI, M.D.
BONE & BODY WOMEN’S HEALTH
SPECIALTY: Internal Medicine, Women’s Health
EDUCATION: B.S., Tufts University; M.D., University of Texas Health, San Antonio; internship, New York University; residency, Lenox Hill Hospital, Zucker School of Medicine Hofstra University; fellowship, Specialized Women’s Health, Cleveland Clinic
AWARDS/HONORS: Board certified, Internal Medicine; Menopause Society Certified Provider; Certified Clinical Densitometrist; International Society Clinical Densitometry
Dr. Kristi Tough DeSapri, founder of Bone & Body Women’s Health in Winnetka, is a nationally recognized expert in perimenopause, menopause, and osteoporosis. Bringing more than 15 years of experience, she offers a compassionate, evidence-based approach to midlife women’s care. Her mission is to educate, prevent, and tailor therapies to meet each woman’s unique needs. She strives to provide solutions that empower them through perimenopause and menopause with confidence and strength. “Celebrity and media attention has galvanized women to pay attention to menopause with few doctors specializing in women’s health in the post-reproductive years,” she says. “As a physician, nationally certified menopause specialist, and perimenopausal woman, I cut through the noise by sharing information, and evidence-based solutions that make differences in women’s quality of life.”
Committed to helping women thrive in their careers, families, and communities, she encourages her patients to prioritize their health during this life transition. Her comprehensive, membership-based program also offers cutting-edge diagnostic tools, like a Hologic DXA scanner for bone mineral density, to develop effective prevention and treatment strategies for osteoporosis.
Dr. DeSapri is passionate about helping women age with grace and maintain vitality.
Bone and Body Women’s Health is located at 570 Lincoln Avenue in Winnetka, 847-999-7171, boneandbodywh. com, @boneandbodywh.
JEREMY WARNER, M.D. FACS
WARNER AESTHETIC & RECONSTRUCTIVE INSTITUTE
SPECIALTY: Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
EDUCATION: M.D., George Washington University School of Medicine & Health Sciences; plastic surgery residency, University of Wisconsin – Madison; facial plastic surgery fellowship, Adamson Associates – University of Toronto
AWARDS/HONORS: Board-certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery; board-certified, American Board of Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery; Clinical Associate, University Of Chicago Section of Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery; Director and Founder, Chicago Rhinoplasty Symposium; Director, Warner Institute Fellowship Program; Mission Director of Nepal Surgical Mission, Face The Future Foundation; Member of Board Of Directors, Face The Future Foundation; National American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons Instructor in Rhinoplasty; Patented SWIFT LIFT ™ Procedure; The Volunteer Center Superhero Award Recipient
Dr. Jeremy Warner embodies professionalism and personality. He is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the Founder of the Warner Aesthetic & Reconstructive Institute, a world-class aesthetic and reconstructive surgical practice, fellowship training center, and provider of global volunteer surgical services. Dr. Warner is nationally and world-renowned for his surgical expertise in facial plastic surgery, particularly rhinoplasty, revision rhinoplasty, and in-office facial rejuvenation. Dr. Warner provides the highest quality surgical and non-surgical procedures, including the in-office SWIFT LIFT ™ procedure – a proprietary procedure that offers the natural results of a traditional facelift/necklift with the benefits of being performed safely and completely comfortably under local anesthesia without drains and cutting the average operating and recovery times in half. “Our expertise in facial procedures sets us apart in the world of plastic surgery,” explains the doctor. “Being able to perform these procedures safely and effectively in the office is the wave of the future – this will be the standard. And we are leading the way in this evolution with our patented and proven techniques.”
Warner Aesthetic & Reconstructive Institute is located at 436 W. Frontage Road in Northfield, 847-558-8888, warnerinstitute.com.
ERIC DREY, O.D., FAAO
LAKE FOREST FAMILY EYECARE
SPECIALTY: Optometry
EDUCATION: B.A. in Biology from the University of Iowa; Doctor of Optometry from Illinois College of Optometry; post-doctorate residency in ocular disease from Illinois College of Optometry
Dr. Eric Drey, founder of Lake Forest Family Eyecare and Franklin Eye Care in downtown Chicago, is dedicated to advancing eye health while providing exceptional patient care. With more than 15 years of experience, he provides comprehensive eye care for all ages and practices full-scope optometry, emphasizing the diagnosis and treatment of ocular diseases and preventative care using innovative technologies combined with personalized service.
Dr. Drey specializes in advanced treatments for pediatric myopia management and dry eye disease—conditions that impact millions. “Over 50 million Americans suffer from dry eye, and the prevalence is increasing with digital screen use,” he says. To address this growing issue, he offers innovative in-office therapies like Intense Pulsed Light and Radiofrequency. These cutting-edge treatments provide effective relief from ocular irritation and reduce reliance on lifelong medications. “These two treatments have been the most significant advancement in managing ocular irritation and dry eye,” he says. Additionally, he offers non-surgical aesthetic benefits for the eyelids and face. Beyond his clinical skills, Dr. Drey sets his practices apart with a broad scope of services, including specialty contact lens fittings, orthokeratology, and glaucoma care. His mission is to combine innovation, expertise, and compassionate care to improve the lives of his patients.
Lake Forest Family Eyecare is located at 825 S. Waukegan Road in Lake Forest, 224-706-6835, lakeforestfamilyeyecare.com, @lffamilyeyecare. Franklin Eye Care is located at 111 S. Franklin Street in Chicago, 312-265-0444, franklineyecare.net, @franklineyecare.
CLAUS J. FIMMEL, M.D.; KRISTHINE FIDEL NAGUE, A.P.N.
COMPREHENSIVE GASTROINTESTINAL HEALTH
SPECIALTY: Gastroenterology and Hepatology
EDUCATION:
Kristhine Fidel Nague: Registered Nurse, University of the Philippines Open University College of Nursing, Manila; Advanced Practice Nurse, Olivet Nazarene University, Bourbonnais, IL
Dr. Claus J. Fimmel: M.D., Philipps University Marburg (Germany); Internal Medicine internship and residency, UCLA/VA Combined Training Program; Gastroenterology fellowship, University of California Los Angeles
AWARDS/HONORS:
Dr. Fimmel: Castle Connolly “Top Doctor” (since 2015), Chicago Magazine “Top Doctor” (2021, 2022, 2024)
Dr. Claus J. Fimmel and Kristhine Fidel Nague (A.P.N.) have joined Comprehensive Gastrointestinal Health to expand the group’s involvement in the care of patients with liver diseases. They previously collaborated for over a decade, providing comprehensive liver care for patients in the Northern suburbs of Chicago. They are excited to share their expertise with their new colleagues.
Chronic liver disease has been recognized as an important and growing priority, both in the United States and internationally. In particular, metabolic liver disease (often referred to as “fatty liver”) is affecting a growing percentage of the U.S. population. Approximately 40 percent of Americans currently have excess fat in their livers. While most of them do not develop serious liver disease, up to 20 percent will develop progressive liver inflammation and scarring (cirrhosis) over a period of years or even decades. Identifying patients who are at risk for the development of cirrhosis, liver failure, and primary liver cancer is critically important. Dr. Fimmel and Mrs. Nague will utilize cutting-edge diagnostic tests, including a novel ultrasound-based elastography test (“Velacur”), for an accurate, non-invasive assessment of the patient’s liver. Next, they will apply specific treatment strategies to reduce liver injury and promote liver healing, including dietary and lifestyle modifications. Comprehensive Gastrointestinal Health has a team of dietitians, health psychologists, and physical therapists who will help the patient establish and maintain a healthy lifestyle, using a one-stop shop approach. Potential treatment options for patients with more advanced disease will include a variety of medications, including weight loss drugs and a unique new drug that specifically targets the liver. Dr. Fimmel anticipates FDA-approval for additional breakthrough medications that will revolutionize patient care in this important area over the next few years.
Dr. Fimmel and Mrs. Fidel Nague are seeing liver patients at the Libertyville offices of Comprehensive Gastrointestinal Health, 950 Technology Way, Suite 250, in Libertyville, 224-407-4400, compgihealth.com, info@compgihealth.com.
Kristhine Fidel Nague and Dr. Claus J. Fimmel
HEATHER DOWNES, M.D.
LAKE FOREST DERMATOLOGY
SPECIALTY: Dermatology
EDUCATION: B.A., University of Virginia; M.D., Cum Laude, Loyola University Chicago; internship, Internal Medicine, Northwestern Memorial Hospital; residency, Dermatology, University of Southern California
AWARDS/HONORS: AOA Medical Honor Society; Better Chicago Magazine Best Cosmetic Dermatologist, Chicago suburbs, 2022
Dr. Heather Downes, founder and owner of Lake Forest Dermatology, is on a mission to help patients age gracefully while celebrating their natural beauty. With years of expertise and a steadfast commitment to quality over quantity, she has become a trusted and empowering presence in dermatology. She takes a deeply personal approach, seeing every patient without relying on nurse practitioners or physician assistants. This hands-on care allows her to form meaningful connections and create customized treatment plans tailored to each individual’s unique needs and goals. Her dedication ensures every patient feels seen, heard, and confident in their care.
Renowned for her mastery with Dysport, a leading Botox alternative, Dr. Downes offers a range of cosmetic procedures, including microneedling, chemical peels, Ultherapy for skin tightening, and Vanquish ME body contouring. “I want my patients to look refreshed but still look like themselves,” she says, reflecting on her focus on natural, refined results.
A pioneer in direct-pay dermatology, Dr. Downes eliminates the insurance middleman to offer affordable, transparent pricing and extended, comprehensive visits. Combining medical and cosmetic expertise, she delivers exceptional care with honesty and compassion. “Health care should be an unconflicted, direct relationship between a physician and a patient,” she says.
Lake Forest Dermatology is located at 2101 Waukegan Road in Bannockburn, 847-615-8700, lakeforestdermatology.com.
DR. SARA DICKIE
SURGICAL AESTHETICS + RECONSTRUCTIVE ARTS
SPECIALTY: Aesthetic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery of the Face and Body
EDUCATION: University of Chicago, Pritzker School of Medicine; University of Chicago Hospitals Integrated Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Residency AWARDS/HONORS: Board Vice President of Development, American Society of Plastic Surgery and the Plastic Surgery Foundation; Diplomat, American Board of Plastic Surgery; Maliniac Fellow, Plastic Surgery Foundation; Volunteer Surgeon for Medical Aid of Children of Latin America; Volunteer Surgeon, Fresh Start Surgical Gifts; Medical Director, One Magnificent Med Spa in Wilmette
For more than a decade, Dr. Sara Dickie has specialized in cosmetic and plastic surgery, achieving industry leadership, in a landscape where new trends and technologies are continuously emerging. “We are in the midst of the ‘looking as good as you feel’ movement and seeing men and women seeking to extend their health spans,” says Dr. Dickie.
Dr. Dickie plays an important role in helping patients embark on new ventures, careers, and relationships with newfound confidence gained by her aesthetic expertise. “Plastic surgery is not just limited to a physical transformation,” says Dr. Dickie. “I listen and help patients make empowering life changes that boost their self-esteem and mental well-being which in turn impacts their life trajectory.” Patients benefit from this collaborative approach with the combined knowledge, skills, and experience of the Surgical Aesthetics and Reconstructive Arts (SARA) team. This ensures a personalized approach and realistic results that are natural looking.
Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS), Dr. Dickie demonstrates a distinct knowledge of surgical advancements, while taking an analytical approach to aesthetic trends. “Women, especially are becoming increasingly empowered to choose how they wish to approach and direct their aging, reflecting more deeply on the things in life they have come to appreciate, and the things they would rather do without,” she says.
When you meet Dr. Dickie you instantly feel her no-nonsense approach to surgery, professionalism, and empowering directness. Her insights have been quoted by the highly selective Plastic Surgery News and American Society of Plastic Surgery, where she is highly regarded among her peers.
SARA, located in Morton Grove, offers patient-centered care with surgical and non-surgical solutions such as facelifts, neck lifts, eyelifts, injectables, and a variety of laser therapies. For the body, SARA offers breast enhancement and lift, tummy tuck, liposuction, and fat transfers.
In addition to her medical practice, Dr. Dickie dedicates her time as a board member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery (ASPS). Expect to see her adopting a more preeminent role in the coming years!
Surgical Aesthetics + Reconstructive Arts is located at 9000 N. Waukegan Road, Suite 130, in Morton Grove, 847-999-7800, website: sara.surgery, scheduling@sara.surgery.
MEENA T. MALHOTRA, M.D.
HEAL N CURE MEDICAL WELLNESS AND ANTIAGING
SPECIALTY: Functional and Integrated Medicine
EDUCATION: ABIM, ABOM
Dr. Meena T. Malhotra’s journey into medicine began with a passion for healing and a belief in the power of the patient-doctor relationship. However, the reactive modern medical system left her questioning its focus on treating symptoms rather than addressing root causes. Realizing that true healing required a holistic approach, she adopted best practices from Eastern and Western medicine and founded Heal n Cure Medical Wellness and Anti-Aging Clinic. She empowers patients to achieve optimal health through a personalized, patient-centered approach using custom-designed nutraceuticals and bioidentical hormone replacement therapy. She believes that the “absence of disease is not the presence of health” and is dedicated to guiding her patients toward sustainable lifestyle changes including chronic stress management by balancing the autonomic nervous system.
Specializing in managing chronic conditions like obesity, hormonal imbalance, diabetes, perimenopause, menopause, urinary incontinence, fibromyalgia, and more, Dr. Malhortra uses an integrative approach that considers genetics, lifestyle, and emotional well-being. “This holistic approach sets functional medicine apart from traditional medical practices,” she says. Her signature “NewU: Reclaim your Life” program strives for optimal body composition by utilizing state-of-the-art technology and hormonal balance utilizing bioidentical hormones. Dr. Malhotra helps patients navigate their health journeys and rediscover vitality and balance.
Heal n Cure is located at 2420 Ravine Way in Glenview, 847-686-4444, healncure.com, @healncure.
ANTHONY P. TERRASSE, M.D., FACS
TERRASSE AESTHETIC SURGERY & ERASE MEDISPA
SPECIALTY: Plastic Surgery
EDUCATION: B.S., University of Notre Dame; M.D., Vanderbilt University School of Medicine; M.D., Surgery and Plastic Surgery, Northwestern Medicine; certification, American Board of Plastic Surgery
AWARDS/HONORS/ACCOLADES: Top Doctor, plastic surgery, Newsweek and U.S. News & World Report ; top aesthetic surgeon, Castle Connolly; guest expert, radio and TV broadcasts including ABC, CBS, Fox, and NBC, as well as People, Fitness, Satisfaction , Crain’s Chicago Business, Chicago Sun-Times, and Chicago Tribune
Throughout more than 25 years in practice on the North Shore, Dr. Anthony P. Terrasse has been motivated by the desire for positive patient results while respecting the integrity and natural beauty of each individual.
Inspired by artistry and form, he is recognized locally and nationally for his leadership, experience, and expertise in aesthetic and reconstructive plastic surgery and skin care. “I derive great satisfaction in providing my patients with improved self-esteem and confidence,” says Dr. Terrasse, whose credentials include serving as past chairman of the Department of Surgery of Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital, working as a Clinician of Surgery there, and being on staff at Endeavor Health and Advocate Aurora Health hospitals.
ERASE MediSpa’s team includes licensed aestheticians, Autumn Breen and Angela Morrill, who are both revered for their knowledge, care, and skill.
ERASE MediSpa offers noninvasive procedures that provide effective skin care and laser treatments for body contouring, skin tightening and rejuvenation of the face and body, and hair removal.
“For many potential cosmetic surgery patients, looking at their reflections is like peering in an amusement park mirror—what’s portrayed on the outside is not what’s felt on the inside,” he says. “I understand the effect of body image on self-esteem, and I treat it seriously by designing patient refinements with the newest effective technology, keeping the whole individual in mind.”
Dr. Terrasse’s practice is located at 700D North Westmoreland Road in Lake Forest, 847-234-2400, terrasse.com.
IRINA FRENKEL, FNP; SARAH BROWN, WHNP, CNM
RETREAT CARE GROUP, PLLC
SPECIALTY: Functional Medicine
EDUCATION:
Irina Frenkel: BSN, Loyola University; MSN, DePaul University
Sarah Brown: BSN, University of Florida; DNP, University of Illinois at Chicago
AWARDS/HONORS:
Frenkel: Member of North American Menopause Society
Irina Frenkel, a family nurse practitioner and dedicated wellness advocate, teaches patients how their bodies function at the cellular level. She empowers clients to take charge of their health with intentional, holistic choices. As the co-founder of Retreat Care Group, Irina’s vision is to inspire true preventive care with ways to optimize your body naturally. Drawing inspiration from her daughter by teaching her healthy habits early, she believes it’s essential to educate and inspire people to take control of their health. “I guide people in understanding and recognizing what their bodies truly need to optimize their health,” she says.
Sarah Brown, a certified nurse midwife and women’s health nurse practitioner, integrates reproductive and functional health to guide women through every stage of life from puberty to menopause. “I hold the education and experience in traditional medicine while practicing through the lens of holistic-based, functional health,” she says. “These approaches can coexist and complement each other. Our bodies do not function in separate specialties, but rather as interconnected systems that impact one another.”
Retreat Care Group is redefining health care by using advanced diagnostics to address root causes, cellular deficiencies, and creating personalized plans that reverse chronic conditions and promote lasting wellness.
Retreat Care Group is located at 495 Central Avenue in Northfield and 21660 W. Field Parkway in Deer Park, 847-220-7386, tryretreat.com, @retreatcaregroup.
Sarah Brown, WHNP, CNM and Irina Frenkel, FNP
GREGORY TUROWSKI, M.D., PH.D., FACS
NEW HORIZONS CENTER FOR COSMETIC SURGERY
QUALDERM & ROBOTIC HAIR RESTORATION CENTER
SPECIALTY: Cosmetic Plastic Surgery
EDUCATION: Harvard Plastic Surgery; Yale Medical School Affiliate General Surgery
AWARDS/HONORS: Castle Connolly Top Doctor, Top Doctor Chicago Magazine, North Shore Premier Doctor
Dr. Gregory Turowski is one of a few double board-certified plastic surgeons—combining a European background with knowledge and technical expertise acquired through years of surgical training at the world’s most prestigious Ivy League institutions. “Experience and natural results are keys to successful outcomes. I offer more than 25 years of experience and results from many thousands of operations,” says Dr. Turowski, who has been practicing on the North Shore for over 20 years. He has built a reputation on compassion, innovation, and a dedication to perfection. “Predictable results and quality patient care is what matters most,” he adds. “I have hundreds of before and after photos to prove it.”
Dr. Turowski specializes in cosmetic surgery of the face and body, including natural mid and full deep plane facelifts, rhinoplasties, and “mommy makeovers.” He is also a renowned expert in performing endoscopic breast augmentation, offering breast enhancement without any breast scarring. “I regularly perform minimally invasive procedures such as internal breast lifts and endoscopic face and forehead lifts. I am also proud to be a world pioneer of robotic hair restoration,” Dr. Turowski adds. “My goal is to help you look the best you can.”
New Horizons Center for Cosmetic Surgery/Qualderm & Robotic Hair Restoration Center is located at 9843 Gross Point Road in Skokie, 847-674-4646, drturowski.com.
JANA MECHUROVA, M.D.
DEDICATION HEALTH
SPECIALTY: Primary Care Physician
EDUCATION: M.D., Univerzita Komenského v Bratislave; residency and Faculty of Medicine, Comenius University in Bratislava; residency, John H. Stroger Hospital of Cook County
AWARDS/HONORS: Board certified by the American Board of Internal Medicine
Dr. Jana Mechurova thrives on building strong connections with her patients at Dedication Health, ensuring they feel heard, supported, and cared for. As a concierge physician, she values the opportunity to connect with each patient. “I get to know my patients on a more personal level, and I am able to connect with each individual patient emotionally,” she says. “Feeling a sense of pride and fulfillment after helping my patients—their smiles and the positive impact I have made in their lives—truly drives me.”
Passionate about primary care, Dr. Mechurova believes it serves as the cornerstone of a healthy community. “Primary care is crucial in the health care landscape because it serves as the foundation for preventive care,” she says. By focusing on early disease detection, chronic condition management, and promoting healthy lifestyles, her work ensures that patients receive proactive, coordinated care that can prevent complications and improve outcomes.
She credits her success to a positive and collaborative team environment, which motivates her to strive for excellence. “I am very lucky to have a positive and supportive team environment,” she says. “I feel welcome and appreciated, which motivates me to keep pushing forward and encourages me to continue striving for excellence.”
Dedication Health is located at 710 Oak Street in Winnetka and 1625 Sheridan Road in Wilmette, 847-986-6770, dedication-health.com.
V. GEETA BANSAL, M.D.
A RAY OF HOPE: NEUROLOGY AND PSYCHIATRY
SPECIALTY: Neurology, Psychiatry, and Neuromuscular Medicine
EDUCATION: Neurology and Psychiatry residencies, University of Pennsylvania; fellowship, Neuromuscular Medicine, Northwestern University
Dr. Geeta Bansal, Chief Medical Officer at A Ray of Hope: Neurology and Psychiatry, believes the integration of neurology and psychiatry is more critical than ever. “Disorders like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and epilepsy, alongside mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and schizophrenia, not only cause profound personal suffering but also place an immense burden on families and health care systems.” And with conditions on the rise globally, it’s imperative to her that patients don’t have long wait times to get the care they need.
As a dual specialist, she is uniquely positioned to address the complex, interconnected challenges facing our health care system today. “The mind and brain are inextricably linked, and breakthroughs in neurology and psychiatry are increasingly showing that many associated disorders share common biological pathways,” she says.
She takes a holistic, scientific, and integrated approach to treatment for her patients. “I am inspired by positivity and negativity, and by God in all facets of my life,” she says. “My goal is to understand the full scope of each patient’s experience.” This approach allows her to create personalized care plans that address both the physical and psychological aspects of her patient’s conditions, ultimately leading to a better quality of life.
A Ray of Hope: Neurology and Psychiatry are located at 1850 and 1860 W. Winchester Road in Libertyville; 9327 N. 3rd Street in Phoenix, Arizona; and 1600 Green Bay Road in Kenosha, Wisconsin, 847-816-6335, bansalneuro. com, @arayofhopegreatlakes.
STEVEN BLOCH, M.D.
BODY BY BLOCH AND SKIN DEEP MEDICAL SPA
SPECIALTY: Plastic Surgery
EDUCATION: B.S., Syracuse University; M.D., Downstate Medical Center; General Surgery residency, Northwestern University; Plastic Surgery residency, University of Wisconsin
AWARDS/HONORS/DISTINCTIONS: Top Doctor, Castle Connolly; Top Doctor, U.S. News & World Report ; Former President, Chicago Society Plastic Surgery
With an appreciation for classical art and sculpture, Dr. Steven Bloch is a master at working with the form and function of the human body. It’s this infusion of art and science that expertly guides his work as a leading plastic surgeon in the Chicago metropolitan area. “Our appreciation for beauty remains steadfast in our desire to create the perfect ‘line,’” says Dr. Bloch. He is the founder of Body by Bloch and Skin Deep Medical Spa in Highland Park where his patients, each with varying visions for what they hope to achieve, come to him for his distinct craft and industry knowledge. “The trust that the patient puts in me to alter their appearance is a bond between us,” he shares. “I usually start my consultation with a new patient by asking them what bothers them and what their expectations are.” It’s this degree of care and expertise that has fueled Dr. Bloch’s stellar reputation in the industry, resulting in appearances on The Oprah Winfrey Show, Discovery Health Channel, NBC, CBS, WGN, and Fox News, as well as print features in Vogue and Allure
With four decades of experience in plastic surgery, Dr. Bloch has a unique ability to understand a patient’s vision based on skill, art, technique, and experience. He finds that his work offers patients added confidence to engage with the world around them. In younger patients, Dr. Bloch works with integrity to modify their anatomy and match their vision for how they wish to look. Working to undo the ravages of time is typically the ambition for his older patients, in which case, Dr. Bloch expertly restores a more youthful body, which, as he shares, can “translate into a more vigorous and engaged interaction with the world around them.”
Body by Bloch and Skin Deep Medical Spa are located at 1160 Park Avenue West, Suite 2E, in Highland Park, 847432-0840 (Body by Bloch), 847-432-0426 (Skin Deep Medical Spa), bodybybloch.com, skindeepmedicalspa.com.
DANIEL BRIGGS, M.D., FAAOS; ELLEN KROIN, M.D.
NORTHWESTERN MEDICINE ORTHOPAEDIC SURGERY
SPECIALTY: Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Surgery and Adult and Pediatric Hand and Upper Extremity Surgery
EDUCATION:
Dr. Daniel Briggs: B.A., Syracuse University; M.D., Jacob’s School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences; Orthopaedic Surgery Residency, Corewell Health East Beaumont (Royal Oak and Taylor); Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Fellowship, McGaw Medical Center of Northwestern University
Dr. Ellen Kroin: B.A., Northwestern University; M.D., Rush Medical College; Orthopaedic Surgery Residency, Loyola University Medical Center; Hand, Upper Extremity and Microsurgery Fellowship, University of California Davis; Pediatric Hand Fellowship, Shriners Hospitals for Children Northern California
AWARDS/HONORS:
Dr. Briggs: Board certified, American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery; Fellow of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
Dr. Kroin: Board certified, American Board of Orthopaedic Surgery; Subspecialty Certificate in Orthopaedic Surgery of the Hand; Loyola University Certificate of Excellence in Research; Sofield Traveling Fellowship Scholar; Jewish Leaders Fellow
Drs. Daniel Briggs and Ellen Kroin exemplify dedication to improving lives through innovative, patient-centered care at Northwestern Medicine. Specializing in foot and ankle care, Dr. Briggs discovered his passion for orthopaedics after witnessing life-changing surgery. “A family friend was hosting a child from El Salvador recovering from surgery to correct deformities in her legs, and I thought how amazing it would feel to restore a person’s function so dramatically,” he says. Fulfilling his passion, he is a leader in his field. “Orthopaedics continues to become increasingly subspecialized and practicing in a specific area allows me to provide the best care possible in the types of problems and conditions I treat,” he says.
Dr. Kroin is a dedicated, skilled hand surgeon, who treats patients of all ages. She values collaboration with families to create personalized treatment plans.
“Family means everything to me and I strive to include my patients and their families in the decision-making process,” she says. Passionate about restoring hand function, especially with the increase in hand pain with the rise of smartphone use, she says, “Patients are often severely disrupted while coping with a hand issue, and I am driven by seeing my patients’ relief and joy upon recovery—it’s everything to me.”
Northwestern Medicine Orthopaedics is located at 1000 N. Westmoreland Road in Lake Forest, 847-535-8500, nm.org.
Dr. Daniel Briggs and Dr. Ellen Kroin
JAY HURH, M.D.; DAVID S. CHANG, D.O.
NORTHWESTERN MEDICINE PAIN MANAGEMENT
SPECIALTY: Anesthesiology & Pain Management
EDUCATION:
Dr. Jay Hurh: B.S., Michigan State University; M.D., St. Georges University School of Medicine; MPH, University of Illinois at Chicago College of Public Health; internship, Ascension Illinois/St. Joseph; residency and fellowship, Medical College of Wisconsin Affiliated Hospitals, Interventional Pain
Dr. David S. Chang: B.S., University of Pennsylvania; M.D., University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey; residency, The Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine; fellowship, Pain Medicine, Virginia Mason Medical Center
AWARDS/HONORS:
Dr. Hurh: Board certified, Anesthesiology, American Board of Anesthesiology; Board certified, Pain Medicine, American Board of Anesthesiology; Illinois Mentorship Award from Governor State of Illinois, Jim Edgar; University of Illinois Research Scholarship; Geoffrey Borne Scholarship, St. George’s School of Medicine; Teaching Intern of the Year Award, Northwestern University; Intern of the Year Award, St. Joseph Hospital, Dept. of Medicine; Robert J. Schultz Chief Resident Award
Dr. Chang: Board certified, Anesthesiology, American Board of Anesthesiology; Board certified, Pain Medicine, American Board of Anesthesiology
For Drs. Jay Hurh and David S. Chang, compassion, innovation, and expertise form the pillars of patient-centered care at Northwestern Pain Management. Together, they deliver personalized solutions that address not only the symptoms but also the root causes of pain, empowering patients to reclaim their quality of life.
Dr. Hurh sees medicine as more than just a profession— it’s a profound calling rooted in the trust and honor his patients place in him. Having been a patient himself, he embodies a “never give up” mentality, approaching each case with empathy and determination. He views the physician-patient relationship as built on mutual trust and shared commitment to healing. “My goal is to provide the best care to those who have entrusted me with their health and to improve their lives.”
Dr. Chang specializes in pain medicine, using minimally invasive procedures to help relieve pain and improve overall well-being. “Witnessing my patients’ strength in the face of adversity motivates me to provide the best care possible,” he says. Thanks to advancements in neuromodulation, especially spinal cord stimulation, chronic pain management has taken a big leap forward, offering new, targeted solutions for patients who haven’t found relief with traditional treatments bringing hope and new possibilities for healing.
Northwestern Medicine Pain Management is located at 1000 N. Westmoreland Road in Lake Forest, 847-535-6793, nm.org.
Dr. David S. Chang and Dr. Jay Hurh
FARAH KHAN, M.D.; SUEMIN JASMINE YOON, M.D NORTHWESTERN MEDICINE NEUROLOGY
SPECIALTY: Neurology, Clinical Neurophysiology
EDUCATION:
Dr. Farah Khan: M.D., Chicago Medical School; residency at Loyola University Medical Center; fellowship, University of Chicago Medical Center
Dr. Suemin Jasmine Yoon: M.D., Chicago Medical School; residency in Neurology at University of Chicago; fellowship in Neurology at Rush University Medical Center
AWARDS/HONORS:
Dr. Khan: Board certified, American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology; Chief Resident, 2022, Loyola University Medical Center
Dr. Yoon: Board certified, American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology; Chief Resident, 2021, University of Chicago; Arnold P. Gold Foundation Humanism; Excellence in Teaching Award
Dr. Farah Khan and Dr. Suemin Jasmine Yoon are distinguished neurologists at Northwestern Medicine Neurology in Lake Forest, dedicated to addressing conditions that impact nearly every aspect of the human body and countless lives worldwide.
Dr. Khan is thrilled with the expansive growth in treatment options for headaches, epilepsy, and multiple sclerosis. “This is wonderful news for patients who have been dealing with chronic neurological diseases and provides opportunities for improved patient care,” she says. “Neurology is an ever-expansive field involving the entire human body and most people are affected by a neurological disease whether it be headache, dementia, epilepsy, stroke, and so on.”
Dr. Yoon draws inspiration from her mother’s battle with a brain tumor. “I saw from the patient and family’s perspective how life-changing it can be to have competent, compassionate, and thoughtful doctors on your team,” she says. Her mentorship with Dr. Thomas Kelly during her residency has shaped how she thinks as a clinician and neurologist. These influences have impacted her approach to care, where she views each patient as a whole person, not just a diagnosis. Together, they represent a new era of neurology, defined by compassion, innovation, and an unyielding commitment to their patients.
Northwestern Medicine Neurology is located at 1000 N. Westmoreland Road in Lake Forest, 847-535-7658, nm.org.
Dr. Suemin Jasmine Yoon and Dr. Farah Khan
RIZAMARIE EMPEÑO, M.D.;
RYAN WANG, M.D.
NORTHWESTERN MEDICINE NEUROLOGY
SPECIALTY: Neuromuscular Medicine and Movement Disorders
EDUCATION:
Dr. Rizamarie Empeño: M.D., American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine; internship, Temple University Hospital; residency, Temple University Hospital; fellowship, Neuromuscular, Johns Hopkins Hospital
Dr. Ryan Wang: M.D., University of Virgina School of Medicine; internship, Boston University Medical Center; residency, Boston University Medical Center; fellowship, Movement Disorder, Boston University Medical Center
AWARDS/HONORS:
Dr. Wang: Board certified, American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology
Drs. Rizamarie Empeño and Ryan Wang are skilled neurologists at Northwestern Medicine specializing in neuromuscular medicine and movement disorders. Together they are dedicated to improving mobility and quality of life for their patients.
Dr. Empeño practices in neuromuscular medicine. She addresses the growing need for advanced care as an aging population faces complex neurological conditions. “Neuromuscular medicine requires more of a demand for specialized care in diagnosing, treating, and managing complex neurological conditions as well as understanding the advances in genetic and emerging therapeutic options,” she says. “The role of neuromuscular medicine in the health care system is more critical than ever in improving patient outcomes and advancing medical knowledge.”
Dr. Ryan Wang, a dedicated movement disorder neurologist, specializes in treating conditions that disrupt or diminish mobility. He finds inspiration in the visible transformation his patients experience after treatment, particularly those living with Parkinson’s disease.
“There is still no cure for Parkinson’s, and we largely focus on treating the symptoms it causes,” he says. “We take the time to listen to our patient’s individual symptoms and what aspects of life are important to them.”
Their shared passion for personalized care and medical innovation drives meaningful impact for their patients.
Northwestern Medicine Neurology is located at 1000 N. Westmoreland Road in Lake Forest, 847-535-7658, nm.org.
Dr. Rizamarie Empeño and Dr. Ryan Wang
JOHN Q. COOK, M.D.
WHOLE BEAUTY INSTITUTE
RUSH UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER, ATTENDING SURGEON, DIVISION OF PLASTIC AND RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY
SPECIALTY: Plastic Surgery
EDUCATION: B.A., cum laude, Yale University; M.D., Northwestern University Medical School; M.S., Surgical Research, University of Illinois; post-graduate training, Rush University Medical Center and Northwestern University Medical Center
AWARDS/HONORS: U.S. News & World Report Top Doctor; Castle Connolly Top Doctors (over 15 consecutive years); Best Doctors in America; America’s Best Surgeons; Healthgrades Recognized Doctor; New York Times Super Doctors List; Marquis Who’s Who List
The foundation of Dr. John Q. Cook’s approach to plastic surgery and aesthetics is a passionate commitment to naturalism. For both surgical and aesthetic treatments, his goal is to create a result that looks like it belongs to the patient’s natural structure. “I love making people feel better about themselves. When we make a person look better, this enhances their self-image, and they take better care of themselves,” he says, explaining that his purpose is to be a trusted advisor to his patients. “In this way, plastic surgery and aesthetic treatments can be a gateway to better health and well-being, especially if we provide gentle encouragement along the way. As someone who is deeply interested in aesthetics, I want to find a way to help each person achieve their very best form, and always in a way that respects each person’s natural structure.”
Dr. Cook has lectured at national and international meetings about his facelift technique under local anesthesia, the structural technique of breast lift, which repositions natural tissue, the integration of facial surgery with medical aesthetics, and advanced techniques of body contour.
“I am very pleased to say that much of my surgery is done under local anesthesia, which significantly improves safety and the overall patient experience,” says Dr. Cook, who along with his team at the Whole Beauty® Institute in Chicago and Winnetka offers a continuum of surgical and medical aesthetic treatments individualized to each patient’s needs.
Whole Beauty® Institute is located at 737 N. Michigan Avenue, Suite 760, in Chicago, and at 118 Green Bay Road in Winnetka, 312-751-2112 (Chicago), 847-446-7562 (Winnetka), johnqcookmd.com, wholebeautyinstitute.com, skinshopmd.com.
DR. AMBER MAY; DR. JEHU STRANGE
NORTHSHORE WELLNESS CENTER
SPECIALTY:
Dr. Amber May: Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatry (Double Board-Certified)
Dr. Jehu Strange: Family Medicine (Board-Certified) and Lifestyle Medicine
EDUCATION:
Dr. May: B.A. in Biological Sciences with specialization in Neuroscience, University of Chicago; M.D., Southern Illinois University School of Medicine (SIU SOM); residency in General Psychiatry, University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC); fellowship in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry, UIC
Dr. Strange: B.S. with dual majors in Chemistry and Biochemistry & Molecular Biology and a minor in Biological Sciences, summa cum laude, Illinois State University; M.D., SIU SOM; residency in Family Medicine, MacNeal Hospital AWARDS/HONORS:
Dr. May: Chief Fellow, UIC Child and Adolescent Psychiatry Fellowship; The Hirsch Memorial Award from the Illinois Council of Child & Adolescent Psychiatry (ICCAP); The Helen Beiser Resident Membership Award from the ICCAP; Trainee Scholarship Award, 9th International Congress of the International Neuropsychiatric Association
Dr. Strange: Resident Scholarship Award from the Association of Family Medicine Residency Directors and the North American Primary Care Research Group, 2015
Northshore Wellness Center (NSWC) sets the gold standard in medical and mental health care offering comprehensive evaluations and personalized treatment plans with a holistic approach. Founded by the visionary physician couple Drs. Amber May and Jehu Strange, NSWC embodies their shared passion for revolutionizing patient care both within the clinic and throughout the community.
Inspired by their colleagues, patients, and families, Drs. May and Strange established NSWC as a premier medical-psychiatric practice where lifestyle physicians and psychiatrists work together to provide collaborative assessments—ensuring a more efficient, empathetic, and effective care model. Dr. May shares, “We are continuously discussing how to maximize whole brain and body wellness.”
NSWC is dedicated to optimizing clients’ social, occupational, and academic success through accurately diagnosing and treating conditions such as ADHD, anxiety, mood disorders, and medical issues. Dr. Strange explains, “We integrate the best of lifestyle medicine alongside precision prescribing when necessary to enhance our patients’ lives.”
NSWC offers a hybrid model of virtual and in-person visits, increasing accessibility for busy patients. As the practice grows, NSWC is currently accepting new patients. Drs. May and Strange agree, “We are grateful to work with great clients every day and to make a meaningful difference in our community.”
Northshore Wellness Center is located at 480 Elm Place in Highland Park and 4633 N. Western Avenue in Chicago, 847-220-7660, northshorewellnesscenter.com.
Dr. Amber May and Dr. Jehu Strange
MICHAEL A. HOWARD, M.D.; CHAD M. TEVEN, M.D., MBA, FACS, HEC-C; BRIANNA SELIMOS, PA-C; CAITLIN STOCKSLAGER, PA-C
NORTHWESTERN MEDICINE PLASTIC SURGERY
SPECIALTY: Plastic Surgery
EDUCATION:
Dr. Michael A. Howard: B.A., Illinois Wesleyan University, cum laude; M.D., Emory University School of Medicine; residency, Plastic Surgery, Georgetown University; fellowship, Microsurgery/Breast Surgery, Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center
Dr. Chad M. Teven: M.D., University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine; residency, University of Chicago; fellowship, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
Brianna Selimos: B.S., University of Kentucky; MPAS, Rosalind Franklin University
Caitlin Stockslager: B.A., Miami University; M.S., Northwestern University
AWARDS/HONORS:
Dr. Howard: American Association of Plastic Surgeons; Martin R. Sullivan Teaching Award; Northeastern Society of Plastic Surgery, Outstanding Paper, Resident/Fellow Competition; Medical Director Plastic Surgery, Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital; 2024 Castle Connolly Top Doctors
Dr. Teven: Healthcare Ethics Consultant-Certified; HCEC Certification Commission; Young Fellows Association Liaison Representative, American College of Surgeons Commission on Cancer; Faculty Research Mentor Award, Department of Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine; Judicial Council Member, American Society of Plastic Surgeons; 2024 Castle Connolly Top Doctors
Selimos: Certified Physician Assistant, National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants
Stockslager: Certified Physician Assistant, National Commission on Certification of Physician Assistants
At the forefront of aesthetic and reconstructive plastic surgery, the team at Northwestern Medicine combines exceptional skill, advanced techniques, and compassionate care, dedicated to restoring both the body and the spirit.
Dr. Michael A. Howard, Medical Director of the Microsurgical Breast Reconstruction Program, leads a highly specialized team focused on breast reconstruction after risk-reduction or cancer surgery. With extensive training from top institutions, including Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center and Georgetown University, Dr. Howard is recognized for his expertise in aesthetic breast surgery,
Dr. Michael A. Howard, Brianna Selimos
autologous reconstructive surgery and microsurgery. His innovative approach to breast reconstruction helps restore a woman’s natural form and confidence. Inspired by personal and family experiences with breast cancer, Dr. Howard is committed to advancing the field with cutting-edge techniques and compassionate care.
Dr. Chad Teven, a skilled reconstructive surgeon, specializes in life-changing procedures using advanced microsurgical techniques, including the latest innovations in lymphedema treatments. His dedication to improving patients’ quality of life through personalized care and his involvement in academic research set him apart as a leader in the field. Dr. Teven’s approach is guided by a deep understanding of the emotional and physical impact of surgery, offering patients hope and restoration.
Brianna Selimos, Certified Physician Assistant, brings empathy and understanding to her patients, inspired by her own personal health experiences. Selimos’ focus is on building strong, supportive relationships with patients, ensuring they feel heard, cared for, and empowered to achieve the best possible outcomes in both body and mind.
Caitlin Stockslager, Certified Physician Assistant, has nearly a decade of experience in plastic and reconstructive surgery. Her patient-centered approach ensures that every individual receives personalized care at every stage of their journey. Stockslager works closely with patients to foster a supportive, collaborative environment, always treating patients like family.
Together, Northwestern Medicine’s team delivers world-class, patient-focused care, utilizing the latest advancements in surgical technology to help patients restore their health, confidence, and quality of life.
Northwestern Medicine Plastic Surgery is located at 1000 N. Westmoreland Road, Pavilion B, Level 2, in Lake Forest, 224-271-4250, nm.org.
Dr. Chad M. Teven, Caitlin Stockslager
VI DUONG, M.D.;
DOUGLAS LUCHRISTT, M.D., MPH
NORTHWESTERN MEDICINE UROGYNECOLOGY & RECONSTRUCTIVE PELVIC SURGERY
SPECIALTY: Urogynecology & Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery
EDUCATION:
Dr. Vi Duong: B.A., Biology with distinction, University of Virginia; M.D., Georgetown University School of Medicine; residency, MedStar Washington Hospital Center; fellowship, Massachusetts General Hospital/Harvard Medical School
Dr. Douglass Luchristt: M.D., MPH, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine; residency, McGaw Medical Center of Northwestern University; fellowship, Duke University Hospital
AWARDS/HONORS:
Dr. Duong: Board certified, American Board of Obstetrics & Gynecology; American College of Obstetrics & Gynecology, American Urogynecologic Society; Echols Scholar; AUGS Outstanding Resident Achievement Award; Clinical Assistant Professor at Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital
Dr. Luchristt: Fellow, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists; Board certified, American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology; Alpha Omega Alpha Honors Medical Society, Northwestern University; Delta Omega Honorary Society in Public Health, Northwestern University; Top Ten Percent Reviewer, Obstetrics and Gynecology; Top Ten Reviewer, Urogynecology; Duke University Medical Student Teaching Award
At least one in four women experience discomfort and reduced quality of life due to pelvic floor disorders. At Northwestern Medicine, Drs. Vi Duong and Douglas Luchristt provide expert care and advanced treatments to address these challenges. Dr. Duong has expertise in minimally invasive procedures, including vaginal, laparoscopic, and robotic techniques. Beyond pelvic floor disorders, she treats conditions like urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse. “I take pride in providing personalized care, tailored to each patient’s unique needs,” she says. “I focus on understanding my patients beyond their symptoms—learning about their lifestyle, goals, and what matters most to them in treatment.” Passionate about raising awareness, she understands each patient’s lifestyle and goals to provide care that restores comfort, confidence, and control.
Dr. Luchristt specializes in comprehensive care for pelvic floor disorders, from non-surgical therapies to advanced minimally invasive surgeries. “More individuals are seeking care for pelvic floor disorders,” he says. “The need for treatment makes it critical to have access to a provider offering the full scope of options, including advanced surgical technologies.” His individualized care empowers patients to make informed decisions. “My goal is to craft care plans tailored to each patient’s needs and preferences, providing top-notch care.”
Northwestern Medicine Urogynecology and Reconstructive Surgery is located at 1000 N. Westmoreland Road, Pavilion B, Level 2, in Lake Forest and 676 N. St. Clair Street in Chicago, 312-694-7337, nm.org. Dr. Duong sees patients in Lake Forest. Dr. Luchristt sees patients downtown and in Lake Forest.
Dr. Vi Duong and Dr. Douglas Luchristt
SALEH M. EFTAIHA, M.D. FACS; HINA ALAMGIR OMAR, M.D.
NORTHWESTERN MEDICAL GROUP AND NORTHWESTERN MEDICINE
GASTROENTEROLOGY GRAYSLAKE OUTPATIENT CENTER
SPECIALTY: Gastroenterology
EDUCATION:
Dr. Saleh Eftaiha: B.S., Loyola University; M.S., Rush University; M.D., University of Illinois; residency, General Surgery, University of Illinois at Chicago; Rutgers University Salvati Colorectal Fellowship
Dr. Hina Omar: M.D., Chicago Medical School at Rosalind Franklin University of Medicine and Science; residency, Advocate Lutheran General Hospital, fellowship, Advocate Lutheran General Hospital
AWARDS/HONORS:
Dr. Eftaiha: Board certified, General and Colorectal Surgery
Dr. Omar: American Board of Internal Medicine, Internal Medicine; American Board of Internal Medicine, Gastroenterology
At Northwestern Medical Group and Northwestern Medicine Gastroenterology Grayslake Outpatient Center, Dr. Saleh M. Eftaiha and Dr. Hina Alamgir Omar are at the forefront of gastroenterological innovation and patient care.
With the rising incidence of colon and rectal cancer among younger populations, Dr. Eftaiha has observed increased adoption of preventive measures, treatment options, and robotic surgical technology for minimally invasive abdominal procedures. “Colorectal surgery encompasses surgical treatments for colon, rectal, and anal cancers, inflammatory bowel diseases, and diverticulitis,” he says, “and robotics has greatly enhanced the precision of surgery in the pelvis.” Committed to establishing robotic minimally invasive colorectal surgery at Lake Forest Hospital, he prioritizes patient care with kindness, respect, and compassion. Highlighting the importance of colonoscopy, Dr. Omar notes its ability to detect colorectal cancer early and prevent it by removing precancerous polyps. “This proactive approach makes gastroenterology essential in reducing cancer-related mortality and improving patient outcomes,” she says. Passionate about improving patients’ lives through gastroenterology, she helps patients navigate and overcome complex digestive health issues—giving her a sense of purpose. “What sets me apart is my dedication to educating patients about their health conditions and treatment options, ensuring they feel empowered and involved in their care,” she says.
Northwestern Medical Group is located at 800 N. Westmoreland in Lake Forest, and Northwestern Medicine Gastroenterology Grayslake Outpatient Center is located at 1475 E. Belvidere Road in Grayslake, 847-234-4310, nm.org.
Dr. Hina Alamgir Omar and Dr. Saleh M. Eftaiha
HAWKINS C. GAY, M.D., MPH, MSAI
BLUHM CARDIOVASCULAR INSTITUTE OF NORTHWESTERN MEDICINE
SPECIALTY: Cardiac Electrophysiology
EDUCATION: B.S., Economics, UNC-Chapel Hill, M.D., Emory University; MPH, Epidemiology, Emory University; M.S., Artificial Intelligence, McCormick School of Engineering, Northwestern University; residency, Internal Medicine, Northwestern University; fellowship, Cardiology and Cardiac Electrophysiology, Northwestern University AWARDS/HONORS: Various teaching and research awards while in residency and fellowship
Dr. Hawkins Gay is a triple-boarded expert in internal medicine, cardiology, and cardiac electrophysiology, practicing at Northwestern Medicine and the Feinberg School of Medicine. With his diverse background in public health, focusing on epidemiology, and his expertise in artificial intelligence (AI), he is uniquely positioned at the intersection of cutting-edge medicine and technology.
The complexity of cardiac arrhythmias and the integration of clinical expertise with advanced technology fuel his passion for innovation in the field. “Every case presents a new challenge, and the ability to combine my clinical skills with advanced technologies to improve patient outcomes is incredibly motivating,” he says. “The multidisciplinary collaboration between electrophysiologists, engineers, and data scientists drives us to explore new frontiers in both treatment and research.”
His clinical expertise in electrophysiology, advanced training in epidemiology, and background in artificial intelligence allow him to offer a holistic approach to patient care that is both innovative and personalized. “I am focused on treating the immediate issue and understanding the underlying factors that contribute to each patient’s arrhythmia using data-driven insights to guide treatment decisions,” he says. “My goal is to provide patients with the best possible outcomes, utilizing the latest technologies while maintaining a compassionate, patient-centered approach.”
Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute, Northwestern Medicine, Lake Forest Hospital is located at 1000 N. Westmoreland Road, 847-534-3278, nm.org.
ARIF JIVAN M.D., PH.D., FACC, FSCAI; COLLEEN SIVRIGHT, R.N.,
BSN, CCRN
BLUHM CARDIOVASCULAR NORTHWESTERN LAKE FOREST HOSPITAL AND NORTHWESTERN MEMORIAL HOSPITAL
SPECIALTY: Interventional Cardiology
EDUCATION:
Dr. Arif Jivan: BSE, Biomedical Engineering Duke University; Ph.D., Biomedical Sciences UT Southwestern Medical Center; M.D., Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine; internship and residency in Internal Medicine, Northwestern Memorial Hospital; General Cardiology fellowship, Northwestern Memorial Hospital; Interventional Cardiology fellowship, Northwestern Memorial Hospital Colleen Sivright: Bachelor of Science in Nursing, Marquette University
AWARDS/HONORS:
Sivright: Nursing Excellence Award Recipient 2022
Dr. Arif Jivan is an esteemed interventional cardiologist with the Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute of Northwestern Medicine and an accomplished clinical assistant professor of medicine and cardiology at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine. As director of the Cardiac Catheterization Laboratory at Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital, he leads advancements in heart care, spearheads a system-first multidisciplinary Heart Brain Team at Northwestern Medicine, co-directs the Pulmonary Embolism Response Team, and is actively developing the Structural Heart Program at Lake Forest Hospital. Colleen Sivright, a registered nurse at Lake Forest Hospital, has extensive experience working in the cardiac intensive care unit, peri-anesthesia care unit, COVID ICU, and outpatient endocrinology clinic.” As the nurse navigator, I am the patient’s primary contact while they are receiving care in the Heart Brain Clinic,” she says. “Our team works closely with physicians, advanced practice providers, and community physicians including primary care, neurology, hematology, and ophthalmology to ensure patients are being referred and treated with the utmost care.”
Together, they find fulfillment in interventional cardiology’s innovative strides, where complex heart treatments now often have minimally invasive solutions. Balancing cutting-edge technology with compassion, Dr. Jivan and Sivright build lasting relationships and perform life-saving procedures with precision and heart.
Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute, Northwestern Medicine, Lake Forest Hospital is located at 1000 N. Westmoreland Road, 847-534-3278, nm.org.
Dr. Arif Jivan and Colleen Sivright
DANIEL DAVILA, M.D.;
MICHAEL KELLER, M.D.
NORTHWESTERN MEDICINE AND CANNING THORACIC INSTITUTE, NORTHWESTERN LAKE FOREST HOSPITAL
SPECIALTY:
Dr. Daniel Davila: General Surgery/Minimally Invasive Surgery
Dr. Michael Keller: Pulmonary and Critical Care
EDUCATION:
Dr. Davila: M.D., Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine; residency, Medical College of Wisconsin; fellowship, Emory University Advanced MIS/Foregut
Dr. Keller: BSE and M.D., University of Iowa; residency, Internal Medicine, Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine; fellowship, Pulmonary and Critical Care, Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine
AWARDS/HONORS:
Dr. Davila: Northwestern Medicine Medical School Teaching Award, Northwestern Physician Assistant Best Rotation Award
Dr. Keller: Alpha Omega Alpha Honor Society, Lewis Smith Award for Outstanding Performance, Pulmonary and Critical Care Fellow, Board certified in Pulmonary Medicine and Critical Care Medicine
Dr. Daniel Davila, a leader in minimally invasive surgery, specializes in laparoscopic and robotic techniques at Northwestern Medicine in Lake Forest. “Robotic surgery has been a game changer for minimally invasive approaches,” he says. “While not every intervention benefits from the technology, it has expanded our abilities to perform especially intricate surgeries much to the benefit of the patient.” Known for his patient-centered approach, he takes the time to explain diagnoses and create individualized care plans for each of his patients. “Every patient has a story and goals. Factor those in, and the impact will be immeasurable,” he says.
Dr. Michael Keller, a pulmonary and critical care physician at the Canning Thoracic Institute in Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital, specializes in Pulmonary Hypertension (PH). Trained at Northwestern before joining Suburban Lung Associates, he helped establish a PH program in Chicago’s northwest suburbs. Now, he’s developing a regional PH program at Northwestern. “The field of pulmonary hypertension has grown immensely with new therapies and is poised for continued advancements with innovative research underway,” he says. “I am motivated by my patients and work to help them achieve their goals and manage their disease with a personalized approach to their care.”
Dr. Daniel Davila: Northwestern Medicine is located at 800 N. Westmoreland in Lake Forest, 847-234-4310, nm.org.
Dr. Michael Keller: Canning Thoracic Institue of Northwestern is located at 1000 N. Westmoreland Road in Lake Forest, 847-535-7647, nm.org.
Dr. Daniel Davila and Dr. Michael Keller
TAEHAN PHILIP KIM,
M.D., PH.D.
NORTHWESTERN LAKE FOREST DERMATOLOGY
SPECIALTY: Dermatology
EDUCATION: B.S., University of Toronto; Ph.D., Yale University; M.D., Stanford University
AWARDS/HONORS: Medical Scholars Research Fellowship, Stanford University; Dox Fellowship, Yale University
At Northwestern Lake Forest Dermatology, Dr. Taehan Philip Kim is deeply committed to prioritizing each patient’s well-being. He values collaborative relationships with his medical peers that enhance patient outcomes—whether a primary care physician expediting treatment or a radiologist taking extra time to discuss a complex case. These experiences inspire Dr. Kim’s guiding philosophy: “To provide the quality of care I would want for my family.”
In his practice, Dr. Kim embraces advancements in immunodermatology, which have ushered in a new era of targeted therapeutics.” “There are a whole slew of novel immunomodulatory medications for skin disorders such as eczema, psoriasis, vitiligo, and alopecia areata among others,” he says. “Compared to older immunosuppressive medications, these drugs are much more selective, safe, and effective.” Looking ahead, he envisions even more breakthroughs, including novel therapeutics for treatment-resistant skin disorders and the use of genetic markers and artificial intelligence to better diagnose and manage complex skin cancers. With advanced imaging, laboratory, and infusion centers, he works closely with specialists to offer comprehensive and personalized care. His quality-focused approach ensures that every patient, whether facing a routine issue or a complex case, receives thorough, compassionate treatment designed to meet their unique needs.
Northwestern Lake Forest Dermatology is located at 800 N. Westmoreland Road in Lake Forest, 847-535-7664, nm.org.
RIA D. DESAI, M.D.; ALEX B. LABBY, M.D.
NORTHWESTERN MEDICINE LAKE FOREST
HOSPITAL AND GRAYSLAKE OUTPATIENT CENTER
SPECIALTY:
Dr. Ria D. Desai: Medical Retina
Dr. Alex B. Labby: Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery; Subspecialty: Rhinology, Advanced Sinus and Skull Base
Surgery
EDUCATION:
Dr. Desai: B.S., Magna Cum Laude, Duke University; M.D., Distinction in Research, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine; residency and fellowship, Northwestern University, Feinberg School of Medicine
Dr. Labby: B.A., Pitzer College (Honors); M.D., Oregon Health and Science University School of Medicine; residency, University of Illinois College of Medicine, Chicago; fellowship, Vanderbilt University Medical Center
AWARDS/HONORS:
Dr. Desai: Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine Resident Teaching Award; American Academy of Ophthalmology; American Society of Retina Specialists
Dr. Labby: University of Illinois - Chicago Otolaryngology
Resident Teaching Award
Dr. Ria Desai is breaking ground as the first Northwestern Medicine retinal specialist in the Northern Suburbs. Offering state-of-the-art technology with compassionate care for patients with vitreoretinal diseases, she diagnoses and treats macular degeneration, diabetic retinopathy, and retinal vascular occlusions. With many retinal conditions impairing vision permanently, she emphasizes the importance of early detection, timely treatment, and patient education—alongside trust and communication. “Vision care is an essential component of quality of life, and retinal health is key,” she says. “My goal for every patient is to feel my commitment to providing them with the absolute best retina care.”
Dr. Alex Labby, an ear, nose, and throat surgeon at Northwestern Medicine, is the first in the Northern Suburbs group with fellowship training in advanced sinus and skull base surgery. His own experience with severe sinus issues gives him unique empathy and understanding with patients. “I know what it’s like to recover from these types of surgeries, and understanding how helpful they can be for increasing one’s quality of life provides me with insight that patients find valuable,” he says. “Every patient is unique in their individual case, and being a physician offers endless challenges and learning opportunities that make for a rewarding career.”
Dr. Ria Desai: Northwestern Medical Group is located at 800 N. Westmoreland Road in Lake Forest, 847-535-6440, nm.org.
Dr. Alex Labby: Northwestern Medical Group is located at 800 N. Westmoreland in Lake Forest and Northwestern Medicine ENT Grayslake is located at 1475 E. Belvidere Road in Grayslake, 847-535-6464, nm.org.
Dr. Alex B. Labby and Dr. Ria D. Desai
VALERIE NELSON, M.D.
NORTHWESTERN MEDICAL ONCOLOGY, LAKE FOREST HOSPITAL AND GLENVIEW OUTPATIENT CENTER
SPECIALTY: Hematology/Oncology
EDUCATION: B.S., Psychology, University of Illinois at Champaign-Urbana; M.D., University of Chicago, Pritzker School of Medicine; MBA, University of Chicago Booth School of Business; residency, Internal Medicine, McGaw Medical Center of Northwestern University; fellowship, Hematology/Oncology, McGaw Medical Center of Northwestern University
AWARDS/HONORS: Chief Fellow, Division of Hematology/Oncology, Northwestern University; Resident Teaching Award, Feinberg School of Medicine; Steven J. Weiner Merit-Based Scholarship; Bronze Tablet Scholar, University of Illinois (top 3 percent of graduating class)
Dr. Valerie Nelson, Medical Director of Clinical Trials at Northwestern Medical Oncology in Lake Forest Hospital and Glenview Outpatient Center, navigates patients and families through the complexities of cancer care with compassion and understanding. “It is a privilege to help patients and their families through difficult diagnoses so they can be as comfortable as possible with the best quality of life possible,” she says. “Thankfully, the majority of cancers can be either cured or made to be chronic diseases that we can successfully treat while maintaining excellent quality of life for our patients.”
As a hematologist and medical oncologist, she has witnessed the power of immunotherapy. “For many patients, immunotherapy does not have many side effects,” she says. “Now is a wonderful time to be an oncologist because new cancer treatments improve our patients’ cancer outcomes every year.”
Known for her honesty, she ensures her patients are informed and empowered. “I am flexible in my thinking and am very happy to meet my patients where they are,” she says. “I am a guide on their unwanted cancer journey—here to help them make the best decision about their care rather than to dictate what we should or should not do for treatment.”
Northwestern Medicine is located at 1000 N. Westmoreland in Lake Forest, 847-582-2134, nm.org.
RACHEL E NORRIS, M.D.
BRAIN HEALTH RESTORATION OF ILLINOIS
SPECIALTY: Medical Director of Ketamine/TMS Clinic
EDUCATION: B.A., Art History, University of California; B.A., Biological Sciences, University of California; M.A, Bioethics, Case Western Reserve University; M.D., University of Pittsburgh; residency, Emergency Medicine, Northwestern University; fellowship, Hospice and Palliative Medicine, University of Chicago; Ketamine Assisted Psychotherapy Training, Polaris Insight Center; Ketamine Medical Provider Training, Integrative Psychiatry Institute; Building a Psychedelic Medicine Clinic, Psychedelic Research and Training Institute; Psychedelic Psychopharmacology, Fluence
AWARDS/HONORS: Founding Board Member, Illinois Psychedelic Society
Dr. Rachel Norris’ journey began on the volleyball courts of UCLA, where she balanced the demands of being a student-athlete with her enthusiasm for art history. While chasing a career in art restoration, a life-changing trip to Cuba revealed her true calling. It wasn’t art she longed to restore—it was people.
As a palliative care and mental health leader at Brain Health Restoration of Illinois, she takes a holistic, scientific, and integrated approach to patient care. “Every day, my patients show up to face their struggles headon, even when it seems as though the world is against them,” she says. “Their willingness to take the smallest steps forward, even in the midst of overwhelming darkness, speaks to a deep well of perseverance and hope.” It is this quiet, persistent strength that drives her as a physician.
Mental health disorders are reaching crisis levels, with millions of people struggling to find relief from conditions that can feel isolating and debilitating. Dr. Norris’ goal is to understand the full scope of each patient’s experience enabling her to create personalized care plans that address both the physical and psychological aspects of her patients’ conditions—ultimately leading to a better quality of life.
Brain Health Restoration of Illinois is located at 1111 N. Plaza Drive, Suite 101, in Schaumburg, bhrillinois.com, @bhrillinois. For your complimentary, no obligation EEG call, 224-208-1247.
DR. TINA VENETOS
NORTHSHORE DERMATOLOGY CENTER
SPECIALTY: Dermatology
EDUCATION: B.S., Cum Laude, Loyola University; M.D., University of Illinois; Internal Medicine residency, Evanston Hospital, Northwestern University; Dermatology residency, University of Illinois Hospital, Chicago
AWARDS/HONORS: Member of the American Academy of Dermatology; Chicago Dermatological Society; Women’s Dermatologic Society; and The Dermatology Foundation
Dr. Tina Venetos of Northshore Dermatology Center has been a trusted name in dermatology since 1996, earning her reputation through exceptional care and word-of-mouth recommendations. As a board-certified dermatologist, she blends a medically based approach with an eye for aesthetics, offering treatments that are both state-of-the-art and tailored to individual needs. A passionate advocate for skin cancer prevention, Dr. Venetos emphasizes the importance of regular screenings. “Yearly skin checks for early detection and treatment allow for better outcomes, especially early detection of malignant melanoma,” she says. Her approach goes beyond health. “Not only do I stress the importance of yearly skin checks to ensure healthy skin, I also encourage various cosmetic procedures to diminish the signs of aging,” she says, a philosophy that motivates patients to stay proactive about their skin’s well-being. Excelling in anti-aging and cosmetic treatments, Dr. Venetos offers a wide range of advanced options, from body sculpting procedures like EmSculpt Neo and Coolsculpting Elite, and injectables and fillers like Juvaderm, Restylane, Botox, Dysport, Xeomin, Daxxify, and Kybella, to groundbreaking techniques like The Halo, a non-invasive hybrid fractional laser that addresses discoloration, fine lines, wrinkles, and more.
Dr. Venetos’ dedication extends to community education, where she organizes skin cancer screenings and events, inspiring individuals to prioritize both skin health and confidence.
Northshore Dermatology Center is located at 925 Sherwood Drive in Lake Bluff; 1850 W. Winchester, Suite 106, in Libertyville; and 3612 Lake Avenue, Suite 2B, in Wilmette, 847-234-1177, northshoredermatologycenter.com, @northshorederm.
Dr. Ivie Okundaye: M.D., University of Wisconsin Madison School of Medicine & Public Health; residency, Internal Medicine, Loyola University Medical Center; fellowship, Nephrology, Stanford University Medical Center
Dr. Veronica Zamora-Olivencia: M.D., Ponce Health Sciences University; residency, University of Chicago; fellowship, McGaw Medical Center of Northwestern University
Dr. Zamora-Olivencia: Board certified, Internal Medicine; Board certified, Nephrology
Drs. Ivie Okundaye and Veronica Zamora-Olivencia of Northwestern Memorial are specialists in nephrology and hypertension focusing on managing kidney health and related conditions.
With a clinical interest in obstetric nephrology, Dr. Okundaye combines compassionate listening with a commitment to clinical education. Known for her integrative approach, she works closely with care teams to provide the best outcomes. “Collaborating with other physicians and members, I strive to understand the latest research and advancements in the field,” she says. Armed with a unique focus on obstetric nephrology, she specializes in fertility, pregnancy, contraception, and menopause issues among kidney disease patients— staying at the forefront of advancements.
Dr. Zamora-Olivencia also brings a collaborative approach to patient care. “By partnering closely with my patients and educating them on how their disease may be affecting their kidney function, I help them take an active role in managing their health,” she says. Fascinated by the kidneys’ vital role, she combines empathy, proactive strategies, and a multidisciplinary mindset to deliver individualized treatment. Fluent in multiple languages, she ensures inclusive, culturally sensitive care. As kidney disease rises alongside diabetes and an aging population, she believes nephrology plays a central role in connecting specialists to improve overall health outcomes.
Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital is located at 800 N. Westmoreland in Lake Forest, 847-535-7647, nm.org.
Dr. Veronica ZamoraOlivencia and Dr. Ivie Okundaye
AMIT SACHDEVA, M.D.
BLUHM CARDIOVASCULAR INSTITUTE, NORTHWESTERN LAKE FOREST HOSPITAL
SPECIALTY: Interventional Cardiology
EDUCATION: B.A. with distinction in Music, Yale University; M.D., University of Michigan; Internal Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles; Cardiology and Interventional Cardiology, Kaiser Permanente, Los Angeles Medical Center
AWARDS/HONORS: Alpha Omega Alpha Honors Society; Fellow, American College of Cardiology; Fellow, Society of Angiography and Interventions; Diplomate, National Board of Echocardiography; Top 30 Poster, Transcatheter Therapeutics, 2011; Commendation for Excellence in Medical Student Teaching, UCLA, 2007 and 2008
Dr. Amit Sachdeva, an interventional cardiologist at Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute, Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital, is deeply committed to patient care. Drawing inspiration from his family’s legacy in medicine, he is guided by his father, a dedicated primary care physician for over 40 years, and inspired by his wife and daughter. Dr. Sachdeva combines technical expertise with a compassionate understanding of how heart health impacts patients and their families. Specializing in the treatment of coronary artery blockages in both acute and chronic settings, Dr. Sachdeva is driven by the ongoing fight against heart disease—the leading cause of death not just in the U.S. but worldwide. He is particularly passionate about advancing protocols for acute heart attack care, where team-based approaches and innovations like angioplasty have significantly reduced mortality. He envisions a future with faster treatment times and groundbreaking therapies for blood clots and shock.
Committed to excellence, he works alongside outstanding teams to deliver the highest standards of care. A lifelong learner and educator, he thrives on teaching future medical professionals and staying at the forefront of advancements in cardiology. His advice for aspiring physicians is “Read, work hard, learn from your mistakes, and don’t be too hard on yourself.”
Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute, Northwestern Medicine, Lake Forest Hospital is located at 1000 N. Westmoreland Road, 847-534-3278, nm.org.
CARDIOLOGY
PREMIER DOCTORS DIRECTORY
Amit Sachdeva, M.D., Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute, Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital, Specialty: Interventional Cardiology, 1000 N. Westmoreland Road, Lake Forest, 847-534-3278, nm.org
Arif Jivan, M.D., PH.D., FACC, FSCAI, Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute of Northwestern Medicine, Specialty: Interventional Cardiology, 1000 N. Westmoreland Road, Lake Forest, 847-534-3278, nm.org
Colleen Sivright, R.N., BSN, CCRN, Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute of Northwestern Medicine, Specialty: Interventional Cardiology, 1000 N. Westmoreland Road, Lake Forest, 847-534-3278, nm.org
Hawkins C. Gay, M.D., MPH, MSAI, Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute of Northwestern Medicine, Specialty: Cardiac Electrophysiology, 1000 N. Westmoreland Road, Lake Forest, 847-534-3278, nm.org
Taehan Philip Kim, M.D., PH.D., Northwestern Lake Forest Dermatology, Specialty: Dermatology, 800 N. Westmoreland Road, Lake Forest, 847-535-7664, nm.org
Dr. Tina Venetos, Northshore Dermatology Center, Specialty: Dermatology, 925 Sherwood Drive, Lake Bluff; 1850 W. Winchester, Suite 106, Libertyville; 3612 Lake Avenue, Suite 2B, Wilmette, 847234-1177, northshoredermatologycenter.com, @northshorederm
FAMILY MEDICINE
Dr. Jehu Strange, Northshore Wellness Center, Specialty: Family Medicine & Lifestyle Medicine, 480 Elm Place, Highland Park; 4633 N. Western Avenue, Chicago, 847220-7660, northshorewellnesscenter.com
FUNCTIONAL MEDICINE
Irina Frenkel, FNP, Retreat Care Group, PLLC, Specialty: Functional Medicine, 495 Central Avenue, Northfield; 21660 W. Field Parkway, Deer Park, 847-220-7386, tryretreat.com, @retreatcaregroup
Meena T. Malhotra, M.D., Heal n Cure Medical Wellness and Anti-Aging, Specialty: Functional and Integrated Medicine, 2420 Ravine Way, Glenview, 847-686-4444, healncure.com, @healncure
Sarah Brown, WHNP, CNM, Retreat Care Group, PLLC, Specialty: Functional Medicine, 495 Central Avenue, Northfield; 21660 W. Field Parkway, Deer Park, 847-220-7386, tryretreat.com, @ retreatcaregroup
Hina Alamgir Omar, M.D., Northwestern Medical Group and Northwestern Medicine Gastroenterology Grayslake Outpatient Center, Specialty: Gastroenterology, 800 N. Westmoreland Road, Lake Forest and 1475 E. Belvidere Road, Grayslake, 847-234-4310, nm.org
Laura K. Bianchi, M.D., Endoscopy Center of the North Shore, Specialty: Gastroenterology, 1732 Central Street, Evanston, 847256-1855, ginorthshore.com, info@ ginorthshore.com
Manoj K. Mehta, M.D., FACG, FASGE, AGAF, Endoscopy Center of the North Shore, Specialty: Gastroenterology, 1732 Central Street, Evanston, 847-256-1855, ginorthshore.com, info@ginorthshore.com
Saleh M. Eftaiha, M.D., FACS,
Northwestern Medical Group and Northwestern Medicine Gastroenterology Grayslake Outpatient Center, Specialty: Gastroenterology, 800 N. Westmoreland Road, Lake Forest and 1475 E. Belvidere Road, Grayslake, 847-234-4310, nm.org
GENERAL SURGERY
Daniel Davila, M.D., Northwestern Medicine, Specialty: General Surgery/Minimally Invasive Surgery, 800 N. Westmoreland, Lake Forest, 847-234-4310, nm.org
HEARING HEALTH CARE
Lori Halvorson, AUD, Duet Hearing Preservation and Lake Forest Hearing, Specialty: Hearing Health Care, 267 E. Westminster Road, Lake Forest (Duet Hearing Preservation); 400 Central Avenue, Northfield (Lake Forest Hearing); 1030 North Avenue, Chicago (Lake Forest Hearing), 847-295-1185 (Duet Hearing Preservation); 847295-1185 (Lake Forest Hearing), lakeforesthearing.com, @duethearing; @lakeforesthearing
INTERNAL MEDICINE
Kristi Tough DeSapri, M.D., Bone & Body Women’s Health, Specialty: Internal Medicine & Women’s Health, 570 Lincoln Avenue, Winnetka, 847-999-7171, boneandbodywh.com, @boneandbodywh
KETAMINE/TMS
Rachel E Norris, M.D., Brain Health Restoration of Illinois, Specialty: Medical Director of Ketamine/TMS Clinic, 1111 N. Plaza Drive, Suite 101, Schaumburg, 224-208-1247, bhrillinois.com, @bhrillinois
NEPHROLOGY
Ivie Okundaye, M.D., Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital, Specialty: Nephrology and Hypertension, 800 N. Westmoreland, Lake Forest, 847-535-7647, nm.org
Veronica Zamora-Olivencia, M.D., Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital, Specialty: Nephrology and Hypertension, 800 N. Westmoreland, Lake Forest, 847535-7647, nm.org
NEUROLOGY
Farah Khan, M.D., Northwestern Medicine Neurology, Specialty: Neurology, Clinical Neurophysiology, 1000 N. Westmoreland Road, Lake Forest, 847-535-7658, nm.org
Rizamarie Empeño, M.D., Northwestern Medicine Neurology, Specialty: Neuromuscular Medicine & Movement Disorders, 1000 N. Westmoreland Road, Lake Forest, 847-535-7658, nm.org
Ryan Wang, M.D., Northwestern Medicine Neurology, Specialty: Neuromuscular Medicine & Movement Disorders. 1000 N. Westmoreland Road, Lake Forest, 847-535-7658, nm.org
Suemin Jasmine Yoon, M.D., Northwestern Medicine Neurology, Specialty: Neurology, Clinical Neurophysiology, 1000 N. Westmoreland Road, Lake Forest, 847-535-7658, nm.org
V. Geeta Bansal, M.D., A Ray of Hope: Neurology and Psychiatry, Specialty: Neurology & Neuromuscular Medicine, 1850 and 1860 W. Winchester Road, Libertyville; 9327 N. 3rd Street, Phoenix, Arizona; and 1600 Green Bay Road, Kenosha, Wisconsin, 847-8166335, bansalneuro.com, @arayofhopegreatlakes
ONCOLOGY
Edward Kaplan, M.D., City of Hope® Cancer Care North Shore, Specialty: Oncology, 9300 Waukegan Road, Morton Grove, 847-6753900, cityofhope.org/northshore, @cityofhopechi
Marlon Kleinman, M.D., City of Hope® Cancer Care North Shore, Specialty: Oncology, 9300 Waukegan Road, Morton Grove, 847-6753900, cityofhope.org/northshore, @cityofhopechi
Valerie Nelson, M.D., Northwestern Medical Oncology, Lake Forest Hospital and Glenview Outpatient Center, Specialty: Oncology & Hematology, 1000 N. Westmoreland, Lake Forest, 847-582-2134, nm.org
OPTHAMOLOGY
PREMIER DOCTORS DIRECTORY
Ria D. Desai, M.D., Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital, Specialty: Medical Retina, 800 N. Westmoreland Road, Lake Forest, 847-535-6440, nm.org
OPTOMETRY
Eric Drey, O.D., FAAO, Lake Forest Family Eyecare; Franklin Eye Care, Specialty: Optometry, 825 S. Waukegan Road, Lake Forest and 111 S. Franklin Street, Chicago, 224-706-6835 (Lake Forest Family Eyecare); 312-265-0444 (Franklin Eye Care), lakeforestfamilyeyecare. com; franklineyecare.net, @lffamilyeyecare; @franklineyecare
Vlada Nakhlis, O.D., EyeSee Optometry Clinic, Specialty: Optometry, 275 Parkway Drive, Suite 415, Lincolnshire, 847-243-3330, dreyesee.com, @eyesee_optometry_clinic
ORTHOPAEDIC SURGERY
Daniel Briggs, M.D., FAAOS, Northwestern Medicine Orthopaedic Surgery, Specialty: Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Surgery, 1000 N. Westmoreland Road, Lake Forest, 847-535-8500, nm.org
Ellen Kroin, M.D., Northwestern Medicine Orthopaedic Surgery, Specialty: Adult and Pediatric Hand and Upper Extremity Surgery, 1000 N. Westmoreland Road, Lake Forest, 847-535-8500, nm.org
OTOLARYNGOLOGY
Alex B. Labby, M.D., Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital and Grayslake Outpatient Center, Specialty: Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery; Subspecialty: Rhinology, Advanced Sinus and Skull Base Surgery, 800 N. Westmoreland Road, Lake Forest and 1475 E. Belvidere Road, Grayslake, 847-5356440 (Lake Forest); 847-535-6464 (Grayslake), nm.org
PAIN MANAGEMENT
David S. Chang, D.O., Northwestern Medicine Pain Management, Specialty: Anesthesiology & Pain Management, 1000 N. Westmoreland Road, Lake Forest, 847-5356793, nm.org
Jay Hurh, M.D., Northwestern Medicine Pain Management, Specialty: Anesthesiology & Pain Management, 1000 N. Westmoreland Road, Lake Forest, 847-5356793, nm.org
PLASTIC SURGERY
Gregory Turowski, M.D., PH.D., FACS, New Horizons Center for Cosmetic Surgery; Qualderm & Robotic Hair Restoration Center, Specialty: Cosmetic Plastic Surgery, 9843 Gross Point Road, Skokie, 847-674-4646, drturowski.com
Jeremy Warner, M.D. FACS, Warner Aesthetic & Reconstructive Institute, Specialty: Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, 436 W. Frontage Road, Northfield, 847-558-8888, warnerinstitute.com
Anthony P. Terrasse, Terrasse Aesthetic Surgery and ERASE MediSpa, Specialty: Plastic Surgery, 700D North Westmoreland Road, Lake Forest, 847-234-2400, terrasse.com
Brianna Selimos, PA-C, Northwestern Medicine Plastic Surgery, Specialty: Plastic Surgery, 1000 N. Westmoreland Road, Pavilion B, Level 2, Lake Forest, 224-2714250, nm.org
Caitlin Stockslager, PA-C, Northwestern Medicine Plastic Surgery, Specialty: Plastic Surgery, 1000 N. Westmoreland Road, Pavilion B, Level 2, Lake Forest, 224-2714250, nm.org
Chad M. Teven, M.D., MBA, FACS, HEC-C, Northwestern Medicine Plastic Surgery, Specialty: Plastic Surgery, 1000 N. Westmoreland Road, Pavilion B, Level 2, Lake Forest, 224-271-4250, nm.org
John Q. Cook, M.D., Whole Beauty Institute; Rush University Medical Center, Specialty: Plastic Surgery, 737 N. Michigan Avenue, Suite 760, Chicago and 118 Green Bay Road, Winnetka, 312-751-2112 (Chicago); 847-446-7562 (Winnetka), johnqcookmd.com; wholebeautyinstitute.com; skinshopmd.com.
Michael A. Howard, M.D., Northwestern Medicine Plastic Surgery, Specialty: Plastic Surgery, 1000 N. Westmoreland Road, Pavilion B,
Level 2, Lake Forest, 224-2714250, nm.org
Dr. Sara Dickie, Surgical Aesthetics + Reconstructive Arts, Specialty: Aesthetic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery of the Face and Body, 9000 N. Waukegan Road, Suite 130, Morton Grove, 847-999-7800, Website: sara.surgery, scheduling@ sara.surgery
Steven Bloch, M.D., Body by Bloch and Skin Deep Medical Spa, Specialty: Plastic Surgery, 1160 Park Avenue West, Suite 2E, Highland Park, 847-432-0840 (Body by Bloch); 847-432-0426 (Skin Deep Medical Spa), bodybybloch.com; skindeepmedicalspa.com
PRIMARY CARE
Jana Mechurova, M.D., Dedication Health, Specialty: Primary Care, 710 Oak Street, Winnekta and 1625 Sheridan Road, Wilmette, 847-986-6770, dedication-health. com
PSYCHIATRY
Dr. Amber May, Northshore Wellness Center, Specialty: Child, Adolescent and Adult Psychiatry, 480 Elm Place, Highland Park; 4633 N. Western Avenue, Chicago, 847-2207660, northshorewellnesscenter.com
V. Geeta Bansal, M.D., A Ray of Hope: Neurology and Psychiatry, Specialty: Psychiatry, 1850 and 1860 W. Winchester Road, Libertyville; 9327 N. 3rd Street, Phoenix, Arizona; and 1600 Green Bay Road, Kenosha, Wisconsin, 847-816-6335, bansalneuro.com, @arayofhopegreatlakes
PULMONARY
Michael Keller, M.D., Canning Thoracic Institute, Northwestern Lake Forest Hospital, Specialty: Pulmonary and Critical Care. 1000 N. Westmoreland Road, Lake Forest. 847-535-7647, nm.org
UROGYNECOLOGY
Douglas Luchristt, M.D., MPH, Northwestern Medicine Urogynecology & Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery, Specialty: Urogynecology & Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery, 1000 N. Westmoreland Road, Pavilion B, Level 2, Lake Forest and 676 N.
St. Clair Street, Chicago, 312-6947337, nm.org
Vi Duong, M.D., Northwestern Medicine Urogynecology & Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery, Specialty: Urogynecology & Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery, 1000 N. Westmoreland Road, Pavilion B, Level 2, Lake Forest, 312-694-7337, nm.org
MEREL FAMILY LAW
Compassionate Advocacy for Navigating Life’s Toughest Moments
WORDS BY JANIS MVK / PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAMES GUSTIN / HAIR, MAKEUP, AND STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA
Since the firm’s inception nearly 16 years ago, Merel Family Law has grown to become one of the elite family law firms in Chicago. Headquartered in the Loop, with suburban offices in Highland Park and Hinsdale, the firm, with more than 20 hardworking attorneys builds exceptional client relationships with high-net-worth individuals navigating complex family law issues.
Specializing in all facets of family law, from divorce to child custody, property division, pre- and post-nuptial agreements, orders of protection, and everything in between, the firm is dedicated to understanding each client’s unique needs and exceeding their expectations. “We treat each client as an individual, not just another case,” says Jonathan Merel, founder and managing principal. “We take what clients want and formulate an individualized plan of attack for each case.”
“Our philosophy is to take a holistic approach to our cases. We get to know our clients well, making an effort to understand them and what motivates them, as well as understanding what seems to motivate their spouse,” says Melissa Caballero Dunn, managing partner. “It helps us develop a strategy that is tailored and unique to that particular case and that particular client—helping us deliver the most specific results you possibly can that are in line with their goals.”
Trailblazers in the industry, Merel Family Law takes a modern, client-focused approach to family law. Their state-of-the-art headquarters reflects this commitment, featuring fully equipped Zoom courtrooms for virtual proceedings, a dedicated children’s room for cases involving minors, and even a meditation room to provide a calming space during challenging moments. Every detail is purposefully designed to support client success and enhance the overall experience. “We know this can be a stressful process, and our goal is to go the extra mile to make sure our clients are the most prepared they can be, mentally and emotionally,” says Merel.
Supporting clients through emotional challenges is a key focus at Merel Family Law. To address these challenges, the firm recently hired Chicago’s first in-house divorce coach, Kristina Lindsay. “We brought her on to bridge the communication gaps that appear between clients and attorneys during these types of cases,” says Merel. “She is able to help emotionally prepare clients and empower them to take control in this process.”
Moreover, the firm uses podcasts and social media to educate and engage both industry leaders and potential clients. “On podcasts, I discuss being a thought leader in family law, sharing ideas to advance the profession and provide colleagues across the country with access to my experiences and insights to support them in their careers,” says Merel. “Alongside that, I think it goes a long way with assisting our clients and giving them the knowledge that they may need as they embark on a divorce.”
Active in various charities and organizations through bar associations, Merel Family Law is committed to making a positive impact in the communities they serve. Additionally, all of the firm’s attorneys are encouraged to participate in pro bono cases. “This allows us to give back to our community, providing repre-
sentation to those who might not otherwise have access due to financial constraints,” says Dunn. Many attorneys at the firm have embraced this goal, staying active in the community, and offering resources to those who need them most.
By offering clear communication, constant support, and a compassionate approach, Merel Family Law helps clients navigate the complexities of family law and transition into the next phase of their lives with confidence. “People turn to us when they’re not in a great place, and we have the privilege of helping them move forward and making things better,” says Dunn.
Merel Family Law is located at 440 W Randolph Avenue, 5th Floor, in Chicago; 595 Elm Place, Suite 225, in Highland Park; and 40 E Hinsdale Road, Suite 202, in Hinsdale. For more information, call 312-408-7000, visit merelfamilylaw.com, and follow @merelfamilylaw on social media.
Jonathan Merel, Melissa Caballero Dunn
LIVING & GIVING
FUR BALL
PHOTOGRAPHY BY EVAN COBB AND SYD AND THE CITY
PAWS Chicago, the city’s largest No Kill humane organization, hosted its 23rd Annual Fur Ball, presented by Nan and Wayne Kocourek. More than 550 guests and about 100 canine companions—many dressed in gowns and tuxes like their guardians—walked the red carpet and enjoyed an elaborate dinner buffet at The Drake Hotel. Event sponsors and guests raised crucial funds supporting the medical care of more than 22,000 at-risk cats and dogs at the PAWS Chicago Nan & Wayne Kocourek Medical Center, the nation’s largest and most advanced hospital for homeless pets. PAWS Chicago’s lifesaving programs have played a pivotal role in reducing the euthanasia of homeless pets in the city by more than 90 percent since the organization’s founding in 1997. pawschicago.org
Fur Ball Co-Chairs Jordan Fisher and Laura Sachs
Melissa Canning with newly adopted Lassie
Fur Ball Co-Chairs Lindsay Hawkins and Laura Sachs with PAWS Chicago Founder and Chairman Paula Fasseas (center)
Louie
Sam Lim Achatz, Chloé Mendel Corgan
Fur Ball Presenting Sponsors Nan and Wayne Kocourek
LIVING & GIVING
SPACE 519 BOOK SIGNING
PHOTOGRAPHY BY KELSEY CAMPBELL
Guests gathered at Chicago’s SPACE 519 to meet prominent national fashion journalists Lauren Sherman and Chantal Fernandez. SPACE 519 owners Lance Lawson and Jim Wetzel hosted the party to celebrate the release of Sherman and Fernandez’s new book Selling Sexy: Victoria’s Secret and The Unraveling of an American Icon . Sherman, in from Los Angeles, and Fernandez, in from Brooklyn, signed books and chatted with the crowd of fashion enthusiasts. Guests enjoyed wine and signature bites from the store’s popular cafe The Lunchroom, including Miss Lucie’s Pimento Spread and “It’s Greek to Me” flatbread bites. space519.com
Jaklin Lynch, Katie Moor
Lance Lawson and Jim Wetzel with their new puppy, Lois
Signature Miss Lucie Pimento Bites from The Lunchroom
Whitley Bouma Herbert, Claire Concannon, Karen Anderson
Evelyn Loomis, Elle Cashin, Fallon Ryan
Freddy Foote, Samantha Lula
Cathy Busch, Jenny Brown
LIVING & GIVING
THOOSIER BOSS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY COLLIN PIERSON
he Lyon Family Foundation hosted the 7th Annual Hoosier Ball to benefit the University of Chicago Medicine Comer Children’s Hospital Adolescent and Young Adult (AYA) oncology program raising more than $700,000 for the cause. This year’s “Hoosier Boss” theme transformed RPM Events into “Robert’s,” an old-world Italian restaurant complete with nods to some of pop culture’s most famous bosses. Sergio Vellati and his 7-piece band provided the headlining entertainment and serenaded guests with the Rat Pack classics during an upscale Italian dinner. The decor featured custom artwork from JH Mintz, a New Yorkbased illustrator, including a custom charger at each place setting and a wall-to-wall mural of VIP guests. After a record-breaking auction and paddle raise led by celebrity guest Bill Rancic, guests enjoyed the Ferrari Lake Forest After Party dancing into the night with LA-based musicians Mojave Grey. lyonsway.org
Jackie Shannon, Allyson Montalto
Alexandra Singer
Kelly Casaccio, Laura Kosmorsky
Jack and Madeline Cascio
Kelly Schroeder, Sloane Ferraioli, Brette Borow, Cassie Mancuso Carver, Sarah Bass, Joanna Slusky, Joanne Boufis
Brit and John Bowen
LIVING & GIVING
A+M WINNETKA SHOW
PHOTOGRAPHY BY BRIAN CAREY
The Antiques + Modernism Winnetka Show, chaired by Kathryn Kish, began with a Preview Party where guests enjoyed a first look at the spectacular pieces from more than 40 dealers, some of whom traveled from across the globe. Presented by the Woman’s Board, all proceeds benefitted Winnetka’s Community House. thewinnetkashow.com
Laura Senner, Kelly Laszlo, Kathryn Kish
Kathryn Kish, Samantha DeCarlo
Carol and Jim Hansen
Stephanie Wheat, Adrianna Stasiuk
Glen Leroux
Melissa Carter
LIVING & GIVING
INTO THE WOODS GALA
PHOTOGRAPHY BY IAN MCLEOD
The North Shore Board of the Northwestern Settlement hosted its 2024 Gala at The Hilton Chicago. The North Shore Board supports the Northwestern Settlement’s mission to disrupt generational poverty by raising funds for the award-winning House In The Wood Camp, which provides a residential summer camp experience in Lake Delavan, Wisconsin, and a year-round outdoor education program for atrisk youth. northwesternsettlement.org
he American India Foundation’s (AIF) Chicago Chapter hosted its 19th annual gala at the Field Museum, welcoming 350 guests and raising more than $1 million for its Women’s Empowerment initiatives in India. The evening, hosted by Northwestern Professor Mohanbir Sawhney, featured a moving program, a live auction, and first-class musical performances. The AIF is the largest US-based international development organization dedicated to poverty alleviation in India. Established in 2001 as a collective philanthropy platform to build a bridge of engagement between India and the United States, its multidimensional public health, education, and livelihood programs have positively affected over 18 million lives across 35 Indian states and union territories. aif.org
Gala Master of Ceremonies Professor Mohanbir Sawhney
Varsha Kaura
Anchal Kaura modeling the Diamond Eternity Necklace
Bulbul and Vimal Bahuguna, AIF Chicago Chapter Founders
Jasma and Rahul Ghai
Kailash and Mukta Purohit, Sohil Purohit
AIF Gala youth volunteers
LIVING & GIVING
TECH RISE
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOSHUA LUNA OF AMERICAN EXECUTIVE MEDIA
The TechRise Season 4 Finale brought together Chicago’s vibrant startup ecosystem to celebrate innovation and entrepreneurship. Six exceptional startups pitched their transformative ideas to a panel of distinguished VC judges, competing for a $100,000 grand prize. The event featured dynamic pitches, meaningful networking opportunities, and highlighted the city’s commitment to uplifting underrepresented founders. Laura Epstein, founder of Pulse Charter Connect, a company reimagining organ transportation logistics, claimed the grand prize. TechRise opens doors for innovators to thrive, empowering them to shape a future that is more inclusive and fuller of opportunity. Season 5 will kick off in April 2025. techrise.co
Desiree Vargas Wrigley, founder of TechRise, announces the launch of the Velocity Catalyst Fund onstage
Ayesha Kazi, Founder of ASL Aspire
Stephane Manuel, Founder of TrueFiktion
Laura Epstein, Founder of Pulse Charter Connect
Jasmine Minor, a 3x Emmy-Winning Anchor/Reporter for ABC 7, hosted the TechRise Season 4 Finale
Event producer Marcy Manley of WPI Event Partners and John & Andrew Landan, “The Landan Twins” of Hardly Water
LIVING & GIVING
CAMP IS GOLD GALA
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JACK FELTES
More than 490 guests gathered at The Ritz-Carlton Chicago for the Camp is Gold Gala celebrating Camp One Step, a nonprofit offering free yearround camp experiences to kids with cancer and their families that foster joy, confidence, and lifelong friendships. The evening opened with a cocktail hour featuring live music, followed by the main event in a ballroom aglow with the “Golden Hour” theme. Highlights included a lively auction, a moving video showcasing camper stories, and an energizing paddle raise. The event raised over $1,000,000, ensuring more children can experience camp’s transformative magic. camponestep.org
Camp One Step President Jeff Infusino, Chair-Elect Jan Kuklenski, Board Chair Jon Leiman
Former camper and host Ryan Sartori
Board Chair Jon Leiman and Gala Committee Chair Kerry Leiman
(Back Row Left to Right) Waihay Wong, Matt Lawton, John J. Foley, Braden Martinez (Middle Row Left to Right) Dan Macalinao, Pat Lawton (Bottom Row) Andy Lawton, Geraldine (Nana) Fotsch, Colleen Lawton, Grace Lawton
Auction Co-Chairs Joe Guzzardi, Rachel Keesey, Gala Committee Chair Kerry Leiman, Director of Philanthropy Paige Hoesley, Development Manager Hannah Smith
11-year-old camper Colin
LIVING & GIVING
JOFFREYNEXT
PHOTOGRAPHY
BY
PURPLE PEOPLE GROUP
The Joffrey Ballet’s Women’s Board hosted the inaugural JoffreyNEXT fundraising event at the Lyric Opera House. In celebration of the incredible talent of Joffrey’s students, JoffreyNEXT featured performances by Community Engagement students and the Grainger Academy, followed by an inspirational discussion between The Mary B. Galvin Artistic Director Ashley Wheater MBE and 2024 Winning Works Choreographer Houston Thomas on Thomas’ journey through the Community Engagement Academy to dancing professionally. Guests enjoyed refreshing cocktails, exquisite bites, and luxurious raffle prizes while supporting Joffrey’s education programs and championing the future of dance. joffrey.org
Dana Hokin Garvey, Ashley Wheater
John and Jane Chapman, Greg Cameron
Suzanne Lopez, Anna Assenmacher, Greg Cameron, Farissa Knox, Kyoko Crawford
Melinda Lagrange, Sarah Geocaris, Karen Peters, Bethany Florek
Patti Eylar, Ashley Wheater
Grainger Academy students with Houston Thomas
LIVING & GIVING
SGRAND OPENING
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBIN SUBAR
mith’s Men’s Store owners, Kip Helverson and Trey Gonzales, celebrated the grand opening of their Winnetka location with an enthusiastic crowd, who enjoyed light bites and cocktails. Building on the success of their Lake Forest store, the dynamic duo has created an elevated shopping destination that combines luxurious apparel with expert in-house tailoring. Whether in Lake Forest or Winnetka, Smith’s Men’s Store offers a thoughtfully curated selection of men’s sportswear, business attire, casual pieces, and formalwear designed to suit every generation. smithsmensstore.com
Trey Gonzales and Kip Helverson, owners of Smith’s Men’s Store
Ceil Barrie, Smith’s Style Consultant Ed Barrie
Patrick Kelly, Daphne Shoemaker, Christoper Loucks, David and Anne Loucks
Penny Greenspan, Jena Radnay, Tyler Greenspan, David Greenspan
Charlie Schenk, Peter Millar Account Executive, and Heather Schenk
Patti Shuma, Craig Fox
Bess Perry, Rick Peterson
LIVING & GIVING
JUF WOMEN’S PHILANTHROPY LION EVENT
MPHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBERT KUSEL
ore than 500 women gathered at Ateres Ayala in Skokie for the JUF Women’s Philanthropy 2025 Lion Event, raising over $3.3 million for the JUF Annual Campaign. Jane Cadden Lederman was honored for her decades of leadership with the 2025 Kipnis-Wilson/Friedland Award, presented by JUF Board Chair Wendy C. Abrams. Guest speaker Noa Tishby, New York Times bestselling author and Israel’s former Special Envoy for Combating Antisemitism and Delegitimization, was featured in a discussion with JUF Chief Public Affairs Officer Dan Goldwin. juf.org
Debra Kramer Marcus
Attendees were enthralled by Noa Tishby’s remarks
Noa Tishby, Abby Polin
Allie Davidson, Martha W. Davidson
Terri Freeman, Joyce Rabinowitz, Stephani Perlmutter, Gail Joseph
Four generations in attendance to see Jane Cadden Lederman (second from left) receive the 2025 Kipnis-Wilson/Friedland Award.
The Founders’ Board of Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago hosted its Winter Wishes Holiday Cocktail Celebration presented by Sterling Bay at a private club in Chicago’s Gold Coast. Proceeds from this year’s Winter Wishes support the Board’s fundraising commitment to the Lurie Children’s Heart Center. More than 350 guests made gifts to Lurie Children’s through the evening’s Wish List, which included funding items and services to help ensure proper training and access to lifesaving devices to treat sudden cardiac arrest along with preventive education programs to promote better heart health. foundersboard.luriechildrens.org
Arnett and Greg Faulkner
Event Co-Chair Libby Holdren, Board
President Margie Stineman, Event Co-Chair Ginger Hecht
Sarah Vihtelic, Catherine Hurley, Haritha Dukkipati, Lindsay Walters Carlton, Mary Watts
Bethany Sage, Amanda Soelberg
David and Jane Rowe, Jaclyn and Jeff McNamara
Carolyn Dammrich, Jessica Lemmon, Andrea Chadwick
LIVING & GIVING
PORSCHE EVENT
PHOTOGRAPHY BY IAN MCLEOD
The Porsche Exchange hosted an electric garden soirée to unveil the all-new Porsche Macan Electric. The venue was transformed into a lush oasis, with vibrant florals and greenery creating an enchanting atmosphere. Guests indulged in themed cocktails, savored exquisite passed hors d’oeuvres, and had the exclusive opportunity to experience the Macan Electric up close following its dramatic unveiling. A live DJ added to the dynamic energy of the night, ensuring an unforgettable celebration. porscheexchange.com
John Manikas, John Kalyviaris, Tom Manikas
Eric and Wendy Wilmouth
Del Civitella, Dimitri Dimakos, William Maloney
Porsche Macan 4 EVTaylor Sharp, Alyssa Suriano
Sean and Cathy Curran
Porsche Exchange General Manager Bruce Semersky
GILDED GALA
PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBIN SUBAR
The Driehaus Museum’s Gilded Gala, themed “Preserving the Future,” celebrated the evening’s honorees, Barbi and Tom Donnelley—dedicated Chicagoans and passionate preservationists. The event commenced in the Museum’s historic Nickerson Mansion, where guests enjoyed light bites, cocktails, and a performance by musicians from the Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestra. The mansion came alive with a dynamic activation of its spaces by dancers, choreographed by renowned multi-disciplinary artist Brendan Fernandes. Following cocktails, attendees moved to the Murphy Auditorium for a three-course dinner and program. The space was transformed with exquisite floral arrangements by Flower Child, creating a stunning backdrop for the evening. Highlights of the program included remarks by Executive Director Lisa M. Key, Gala Chair Joe Gromacki, and Board Chair Zach Lazar, all celebrating the Museum’s mission and its commitment to preservation. driehausmuseum.org
Joe Gromacki, Barbi and Tom Donnelley, Lisa Key
Brian Hieggelke, Greg Thompson, Jan Hieggelke, Greg Cameron, Katy O’Malley
Ron and Julie Allen, Francia Harrington, Barry Litwin
Larry and Marilyn Fields, Nina and Brant Yung
Gary Metzner, Suzette Bulley, Scott Johnson
LIVING & GIVING
TRUNK SHOW
PHOTOGRAPHY BY IAN MCLEOD
Nicole Carrabine and Meredith Melling curated an exclusive shopping experience at The Lake Forest Shop with La Linge, Arch Vintage, and Marfa Stance. Guests savored light bites and sipped cocktails while exploring the unique collections. The evening’s festivities culminated with a seated dinner at Le Colonial, where attendees celebrated the hosts and brands while dining on French Vietnamese cuisine. thelakeforestshop.com
Nicole Carrabine, Meredith Melling
Sally Brown Thilman
Wendy Franzen, Laura White
Jenny Morehead, Jenn Phillips, Molly Weinlander
Katie Donovan, Jen Buettner, Meredith Melling
Whitley Bouma Herbert, Abby Dunn
Liz Prior, Cathy Busch
TREATING “OZEMPIC FACE”
WORDS BY STEVEN BLOCH, M.D.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY MONICA KASS ROGERS
With the use of semiglutide, commonly known as Ozempic, and tirzepatide, referred to as Mounjaro, many patients have experienced rapid weight loss. This has led to changes in the face referred in the media as “Ozempic face.” Basically, this is caused by a loss of facial fat. The skin of the face and often the body loses its ability to contract sufficiently due to reduced collagen and elastin in the skin. This becomes particularly acute in an older patient as a natural progression of aging.
Signs of “Ozempic face” are gauntness, sagging, hollowing out of the temples, cheeks, and wrinkles. Fortunately, treatments can mitigate some of the effects. These treatments consist of readily available procedures used to treat the naturally aging face.
• Fillers: The role of fillers is to restore volume. There are a host of dermal fillers that either stimulate collagen production (which takes time) or instantly adds volume. The objective is to create a natural, youthful appearance that does not look injected. It requires the eye of an artist and skill of a sculptor.
• Neurotoxins or Botox: Typically used around the eyes, forehead, and neck, to reduce the wrinkles and activity of underlying muscles which become more apparent in the thinner face, particularly if the skin is thin. Advanced Botox injections
require a thorough understanding of the underlying facial muscles to create a naturally balanced appearance.
• Non-Invasive Skin Tightening Procedures: There is an explosion of non-invasive technologies. The premise behind them is to deliver energy which translates into heat either to the skin or just beneath it to stimulate collagen or elastin production. The trick is to deliver it comfortably and safely so that you don’t damage the skin. At Skin Deep we have many technologies including Sofwave, Genius, Thermage, and Venus. The type will be discussed during the consultation.
• Muscle Toning/Non-Invasive Tightening: As a result of rapid weight loss there is often a loss of muscle mass and resulting in laxity. As part of aging there is also loss of muscle mass resulting in laxity. To improve muscle tone we have several technologies. Emface stimulates the facial muscles resulting in increased muscle tone, a shortening of the muscle and lifting of the overlying soft tissue. Pure Impact and CoolTone can be used on the body to stimulate the underlying muscles and increase muscle tone.
• Laser Resurfacing: As a result of rapid weight loss and loss of fatty tissue combined with lack of elastin and collagen one is often left with a wrinkled face and body. This is not the reward one has to accept for weight loss. Lasers are often very effective in minimizing the appearance of wrinkles. At Skin Deep we have a full complement of non-invasive and invasive lasers including Fraxel, CoolPeel, Tetra, and Plasma Pen.
• Surgical Tightening: Depending on the severity of sagging and laxity of skin we offer minimally invasive procedures such as FaceTite, BodyTite, and Renuvion. Finally at Body by Bloch we offer the gold standard facelift, tummy tuck, thigh lift, breast lift, and arm lift.
All these procedures can be combined. As part of a consult, a customized plan is created for each patient and a program can be created to fit most budgets.
For additional information, visit bodybybloch.com or skindeepmedicalspa.com. To schedule a consultation, call Dr. Bloch at his Highland Park office at 847-432-0840, Skin Deep Medical Spa Highland Park at 847-432-0426, or Glenview at 847-901-0800.
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Cory helped us sell a very particular house during a brief lull period in the market. He went above and beyond in all steps of the selling process. He gave us advice on how to prepare our house for sale, hosted around 5 or more open houses, actively marketed our home, led us through the negotiations during the offer process and was always available for questions. Additionally, once the house was under contract and the inspection period started, we needed a contractor to come over to our house when we were out of town and he offered to meet the person and let them into the house and represent us. In addition to being professional, transparent, patient, and helpful, he is someone we completely trust. He is a genuinely nice guy and a great person to work with. We highly recommend Cory!” —Katsnelson Family, Ravinia
PARTING WORDS
RE-THINKING THE ROAD TO WELLNESS
Dr. Sandra Scheinbaum shows the way through functional medicine.
WORDS BY THOMAS CONNORS / ILLUSTRATION BY ROBERT RISKO
Robotic surgery. Genome editing. Cell therapy. These are just a few of the milestones that have reshaped modern medicine in recent years. But not every innovation springs from a lab. And not every road to wellness begins with a prescription pad. Functional Medicine, a patient-based, individualized approach to ascertaining the root cause of disease, is playing an increasing role in how patients and their physicians determine the best approach to managing their healthcare. As founder and CEO of the Functional Medicine Coaching Academy, clinical psychologist Dr. Sandra Scheinbaum trains nurses, doctors, dietitians, physical therapists, and mental health professionals in examining the gaps in traditional healthcare, which doesn’t always address factors like nutrition, stress, and sleep. “They want to expand their toolkit and learn how to support patients more holistically by focusing on behavior change and sustainable lifestyle improvements,” explains Scheinbaum. The academy’s student body is diverse and includes some without a background in healthcare, career changers, and retirees.
The functional medicine model was developed in 1990 by renowned nutritionist Dr. Jeffrey Bland. While not immediately embraced by conventional medical practitioners, its tenets have been more widely adopted in the past decade. “There’s growing research and clinical evidence supporting its effectiveness, particularly for chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes, autoimmune diseases, and gut disorders where traditional methods often fall short,” notes Scheinbaum. “Institutions like the Cleveland Clinic have established functional medicine centers, lending credibility and driving broader acceptance within the medical community.”
in the classroom as a special education teacher, before joining the faculty at National Louis University to train future educators. In the early 1970s, she began offering workshops to help educators and parents manage stress and reduce burnout. “These workshops introduced practices rooted in what we now call mind-body medicine, such as breathing exercises and guided imagery,” Scheinbaum recalls. “At the time, this was considered unconventional, even radical. But I saw how these strategies made a tangible difference, improving resilience and well-being for teachers and parents alike. This early work deepened my commitment to holistic approaches.”
Patients, who in the past might have deferred unquestioningly to their physicians, are getting onboard, too. “Patients are becoming more informed and proactive about their health,” observes Scheinbaum. “Many are frustrated with conventional practitioners who rely heavily on medications without addressing underlying issues. Functional medicine offers a more personalized approach that considers the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual components of well-being.”
A Lake Forest resident, Scheinbaum began her professional life
Scheinbaum went on to work as a clinical psychologist, and over her 35plus years in practice, became intimately aware of the shortcomings of traditional psychology, which, she says, “focused too heavily on diagnosing problems rather than cultivating strengths.” At the same time, she was developing a greater interest in the relationship between nutrition and mental health. “It became clear to me that psychotherapy alone often fell short, and that true well-being required a more comprehensive approach, one that included the food we eat and an understanding of how it affects both mind and body. This realization drew me to functional medicine and to eventually create a new specialty—functional medicine health coaching, which empowers individuals to take charge of their health through sustainable lifestyle changes.”
Indeed, many of Scheinbaum’s student coaches experience profound change during their training. “An often-surprising outcome for all students, regardless of their background, is the personal transformation they undergo during the training. Many enter the program primarily seeking knowledge about functional medicine content. While they do gain this knowledge, they also learn the principles of positive psychology and coaching skills, which impact not only their professional lives but their personal relationships as well. Through self-reflection exercises and coaching practice, they start applying what they ’ve learned and report improved communication with their family, friends, and colleagues, finding that they listen more attentively and respond with greater empathy.” Now that’s a win-win.
For more information, visit functionalmedicinecoaching.org
For my clients, owning the iconic “Home Alone” house was more than a dream—it was an opportunity to embrace a piece of cinematic history and nostalgia. When this extraordinary property became available for the first time in 12 years, we navigated a competitive market with multiple offers and crafted the perfect strategy to turn their dream into reality.
Now, as proud stewards of this cherished home, they look forward to creating their own memories while honoring its legacy and continuing its spirit of family and connection.
