SW Lake December 2015 by City Lifestyle

SW Lake DECEMBER 2015

SWLakeLifestyle.com

NORTH BARRINGTON • LAKE ZURICH • HAWTHORN WOODS • KILDEER • DEER PARK • LONG GROVE

Celebrate the Season

™

Lifestyle Letter

What is your true meaning of Christmas? A

n online search found that the most accepted explanation for the “true meaning of Christmas” is that it is a phrase with a long history in American pop culture. It first appeared in the mid-19th century, and is often given vaguely religious overtones that suggest that the “true meaning of Christmas” is the celebration of the Nativity of Christ. In pop culture usage, however, the religious references are mostly avoided, and the “true meaning” is taken to be a sort of introspective and benevolent attitude opposed to the commercialization of Christmas. We’ve all seen or heard about it lamented in Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol (published in 1843) or perhaps in an annual viewing of Charles M. Schultz’s A Charlie Brown Christmas, repeated every year since its 1965 debut.

DECEMBER 2015 publisher

Peter Fetzer | PFetzer@LifestylePubs.com editor

Wendy Willison | WWillison@LifestylePubs.com contributing writers

Rhiannon Bankes, Kathy Bonifazi, Georgia Cawley, Helen Oliveri, Sue Shimkus, Nicole Tardiff, Linda Smith contributing photographers

Kathy Bonifazi, Georgia Cawley, Nicole Tardiff

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

| Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF SALES OFFICER

| Matthew Perry

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

So much of what we do this season stems from our own Christmas’ past; what we do to preserve the customs that are ours. When I think about what is my true meaning of Christmas, I clearly see it in now in my history. Tradition has many different definitions and origins—a tradition can be cultural, based on religious beliefs, societal or, in my case, my parents and their ability to celebrate anywhere, anytime, with anything that was available to make Christmas wonderful for me and my siblings. We moved quite a bit, nothing was really the same year after year, but there was always the celebration of being together. In remembering this, I notice the way each memory makes my heart feel. Here I find joy. The true meaning of Christmas, to me, is the overwhelming and heartfelt joy I have for the family, the friends and the love I have in my life. For this I am truly grateful.

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING ART DIRECTOR EDITORIAL DIRECTOR AD COORDINATORS

| DeLand Shore | Brad Broockerd

| Sara Minor | Nicole Sylvester

| Cyndi Harrington, Chelsi Hornbaker

COPY EDITOR

| Kendra Mathewson

APPLICATION ARCHITECT WEB DEVELOPER

| Michael O’Connell | Hanna Park

Wendy

Wendy Willison, Editor WWillison@LifestylePubs.com

by Community ™

SWLakeLifestyle.com ON THE COVER Mixed Media Snowman by Allison Wu of Lake Zurich (at age 9). Created at Mainstreet Art Center, Lake Zurichunder the instruction of Karen Sako, LGAG Member. 4

SW Lake Lifestyle | December 2015

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P.O. Box 12608 Overland Park, KS 66282-3214 Proverbs 3:5-6 SW Lake Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of SW Lake’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in SW Lake Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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December 2015

Departments

Good Times

Around Town

Artist’s Palette

Home Matters

Locally Owned

Driver’s Notebook

Real Wives

Lifestyle Calendar

Parting Thoughts

28 Around the World Christmas celebration destinations. 42 Keep Your Joy

Wrap less to give more this season.

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Good Times

Celebrating Broken Earth Winery in Long Grove Broken Earth Winery's One Year Anniversary Event & Ribbon Cutting brought regulars and new customers out for the celebration! Guests were treated to raffle prizes and wine gifts, enjoyed wine and lighter fare and toured the tasting room located in Historic Downtown Long Grove.

Co-owner Missy Bernadette cuts the ribbon.

Party gifts included this wine basket and two raffle The location also offers a retail area. winners received a weekend at Blue Harbor Resort in Sheboygan, WI.

Broken Earth Winery offers a California wine The Broken Earth wines originate from family-owned Broken Earth Winery is owned by the Forsythe family in Historic Downtown Long Grove Village. tasting experience right here in Illinois. vineyards in Paso Robles, California.

Lake Zurich Area Chamber of Commerce Event Heats Up

It was a perfect fall night for the LZACC's Annual Chili Cook-Off hosted by the Lake Zurich Fire Department. Guests mingled, enjoyed the entry submissions and awarded first place to firefighter David Santoyo. Congratulations, David!

Guests Tony Tinaglia, Interface Financial Group, Ken Grooms, President of the LZACC and owner of Firefighter David Santoyo is presented with the Jeff Carroll, Hallmark Promotions and Katie Van Grooms Insurance Associates in Lake Zurich, presented coveted First Place Chili Cook-Off Sweatshirt, Diggelen, Achieve Footwear the Certification of Appreciation to John Bzdusek. donated each year by Melon Ink.

Chief John Malcolm and Deputy Fire Marshall John Claire Slattery, owner of Mindful Mix chats with Bzdusek present the 3rd place award to firefighter Deputy Fire Chief John Bzdusek realizes he has Justin Brooks. Lake Zurich Mayor Tom Poynton. taken 2nd place. 8

SW Lake Lifestyle | December 2015

1 8 | 8

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Good Times

Pumpkin Pick Up Event

In gratitude for the continued show of support from the community, The Helen Oliveri Team gave away free pumpkins at their Hawthorn Woods office in the Cherry Hill Plaza at 101 W. Gilmer Road.

Great Barrington Area TasteFest Winners

The Barrington Area Chamber of Commerce (BACC) announced the winners at its 12th annual Great Barrington Area TasteFest. Some of the finest purveyors of food and spirits in the Barrington area showcased their samples and guests voted for Best Taste, Best Entrée, Best Spirit and Best Dessert.

Jennie and Vera’s Sweets + Savories won Best Dessert.

SW Lake Lifestyle | December 2015

The Best Spirit Award was a tie between Garfield’s Beverage Warehouse and Cooper’s Hawk Restaurant & Winery.

Best Taste went to Incontro a Tavola for its Italian meatballs,

Mandile’s Italian Ristorante & Banquets won Best Entrée for its lasagna and manicotti.

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December 2015 | SW Lake Lifestyle

Around Town naming a new IPA, the CFC Oral History by

and place to be announced. You will have all

Tom Vanderpoel and live music by the Un-

winter to tackle the Cigar Box Challenge, cre-

usual Suspects Jazz Trio with Barrington's

ating your own unique piece of art! Are you

own Henry Heine. Tickets are $50 per per-

game? Contact Georgia@LGAMC.org. You

son and only 225 tickets will be sold. To

are invited to help yourself to an empty ci-

request further information please contact

gar box at Neumann’s Cigars & More in Long

CFC@CitizensForConservation.org.

Grove, whenever they are available.

HAWTHORN WOODS ACHIEVES EXCELLENCE IN FINANCIAL REPORTING FOR THE LAST DECADE The Village of Hawthorn Woods has been awarded the Certificate of Achievement for VHW Park District’s Best of the Best Awards Gala

Excellence in Financial Reporting by the Government Finance Officers Association

THE HAWTHORN WOODS PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT AND HAWTHORN WOODS COUNTRY CLUB RECOGNIZED AT THE ILLINOIS ASSOCIATION OF PARK DISTRICT’S BEST OF THE BEST AWARDS GALA The Village of Hawthorn Woods Parks & Recreation Department and Hawthorn Woods Country Club have been named

of the United States and Canada (GFOA) for its Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR) for the 2014 fiscal year. This is the 10th consecutive year the Village has been awarded this honor. The Certificate of Achievement is the high-

THE NUTCRACKER BALLET AT THE LAKE ZURICH PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

est form of recognition in the area of governmental accounting and financial reporting, and its attainment represents a significant

amongst the best of the best within the State

Celebrate the season with the Illinois Youth

accomplishment by a government and its

by the Illinois Association of Park Districts

Dance Theatre (IYDT) and attend the group's 16th

management. Kristen Kazenas, CPA, Chief

for their cooperative efforts. They received

production

Financial Officer for the Village of Hawthorn

the award in the category of "Best Friend of

Tchaikovsky's The

Woods, is primarily responsible for preparing

Illinois Parks-Small Business" for their effort

Nutcracker. Perfor-

this award-winning report and has been pre-

and success in bringing together public and

mances run Thurs-

sented with this distinguishing award.

private entities for the benefit of the public.

day, December 17 Sunday,

cellence in financial management not only for

ually demonstrates its commitment to the

December 20, 2015

Hawthorn Woods but has achieved accolades

Hawthorn Woods community through co-

and tickets are $17-

in her profession receiving state and national

operative programming, participation and

$27

person.

recognitions,” says Pamela O. Newton, Chief

assistance in special events. Staff from both

Group

discounts

Operating Officer. “The Village of Hawthorn

organizations attended an awards gala held

are available. Vis-

Woods prides itself in achieving excellence

by the Illinois Association of Park Districts

it IYDT.org to pur-

for its residents in all areas and appreciates

where they received the award and were

chase tickets and for more information. This hol-

receiving this recognition of excellence in fi-

recognized for their achievements.

iday tradition is sure to please the whole family

nance.” The 2014 Village of Hawthorn Woods

with the battle scene for the boys and the land of

CAFR can be viewed at VHW.org.

Hawthorn Woods Country Club contin-

CFC “CHEERS FOR RESTORATION” EVENT Join fellow CFC members to mix, mingle and share holiday cheer to support the

through

“CFO Kazenas has set the standard for ex-

per

sweets for the girls!

LONG GROVE ARTISTS GUILD'S CIGAR BOX CHALLENGE

STAY FIT WITH YOGA & ZUMBA CLASSES IN HAWTHORN WOODS Join us for a restorative vinyasa flow class

Cigar boxes come in all sizes and shapes.

every Thursday at 6 p.m. at the Hawthorn

day, December 6, 2015 at the Onion Pub

Ponder what you might do with it… Repur-

Woods Village Barn. This class is ideal for

and Brewery in Lake Barrington. Bring your

pose? Restructure? Embellish? You are lim-

those who are just beginning their yoga prac-

friends for a fun night of open bar, beer tast-

ited only by your imagination. Each of you

tice and want to learn fundamental poses as

ing, appetizers, raffles, an auction and more.

will be invited to bring your finished art back

well as seasoned yogis looking to reap the

Entertainment to include participation in

to a Long Grove Artists Guild exhibit, time

benefits of holding poses for a longer period

restoration of Flint Creek wetlands on Sun-

SW Lake Lifestyle | December 2015

of time while refining their practice. Or pick up the pace in Zumba on Saturdays at 9 a.m., also held at the Barn, where you will dance in this dynamic, exciting and effective total body fitness system that is a fusion of Latin and International music. 10 visit passes are available and work for both classes. Visit VHW.org for more information.

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LAKE ZURICH AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE (LZACC) WELCOMES THE NEW PRIMROSE SCHOOL AND EDWARD JONES - BROCK ALLEN • The LZACC held a ground breaking ceremony for the new Primrose School of Long Grove, located on Old McHenry Road. This new preschool is scheduled to open in Spring 2016 and will be owned and operated by Jennifer Wierzchon. • The LZACC welcomed one of its newest members, Edward Jones - Brock Allen, with a grand opening and ribbon cutting. Delicious appetizers, desserts and beverages were provided by Kathy Pedersen, owner of On Occasion Catering & Events/Fat Bottomed Girls.

THE BARRINGTON AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE (BACC) WELCOMES 18/8 FINE MEN’S SALON AND FUNCTIONAL FITNESS • The BACC celebrated the opening of 18/8 Fine Men’s Salon-Barrington with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and after-hours mixer. Guests toured the new upscale mens salon in the Barrington Village Center while enjoying fare from Coopers of Barrington. Owners Jeff and Cathy Eggert enlightened the crowd with fun facts and services available at 18/8 Fine Men’s Salon. The Barrington location is the second franchise in the Chicago area and services include hair styling and coloring, manicures, pedicures, waxing and facial treatments performed at semi-private stations in a male-friendly environment. • Functional Fitness celebrated its new location at 400 W. Northwest Hwy with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and after-hours mixer hosted by the BACC. Owner Paul Brune has been in the field of personal training for more than 30 years and continues to be driven by helping people live better lives. Brune previously owned and operated a franchise of Totally Fit in Barrington. His new space offers art training equipment, free weights and TRX band to offer clients a variety of workout options. In additional to personal training, Functional Fitness offers rehabilitative strengthening and small group classes.

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Artist’s Palette Amy Gatlin of Kildeer with her intricate mosaics.

The

BACK SEAT GALLERY & TRUNK SHOW Dona Blunt of Long Grove with her pastels. Dona braved the elements and actually worked on a pastel through the day.

Mary Beth Bellon of Harvard with her paintings and a hot cup of coffee.

Sandra Peek of Lake Zurich bundled up by her trunk gallery.

THE LONG GROVE ARTS & MUSIC COUNCIL CREATES A NEW ARTIST GUILD ADVENTURE ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY GEORGIA COWLEY

Panoramic view of the art show 16

SW Lake Lifestyle | December 2015

t was a cold and windy day when seemingly regular asphalt was transformed into an "art gallery" by a determined band of artists willing to withstand the elements. As the rain ceased, the trunks and doors opened up and Towner Green parking lot became Towner Green Gallery. Each artists' vehicle served as his or her gallery and the beauty of this outdoor art show was revealed in its simplicity and versatility. Even though the weather was less than ideal, many artists bravely worked on their art while all enjoyed the camaraderie of creating and interacting with those who attended. The Long Grove Artists Guild and their artist friends agreed that the event will continue— in warmer weather!

Marie Roth of Long Grove enjoyed a brief bit of sunshine standing by her recycled barn-wood art.

Mike Wonderlich of Evanston with his wife and his ceramics. This was Mike's first art show.

Cindy Pacyk of Schaumburg and her "installation art" of recycled plastic climbing out of her trunk.

Karen Sako of Arlington Heights with her mixed media paintings and little dog, too.

Pat Hawkins of Wheeling with her vinyl mosaics and ready smile.

Marissa Mazzone of Hawthorn Woods, all smiles, with her art work and little bundled dog, Carmel. Marissa is a youth member of the Long Grove Artists Guild. December 2015 | SW Lake Lifestyle

Home Matters

11 Reasons To List Your Home During The Holidays ARTICLE HELEN OLIVERI

eck the halls for a happy holiday, but why not something more? When your house is decorated for the season it will look beautiful to potential buyers. Many people feel that the holiday season is not a good time to sell, but think about why this might be the best time. 1. SERIOUS BUYERS - People

who look for a home during the holi-

days are more serious buyers. 2. LESS INVENTORY - Serious buyers have fewer houses to choose from during the holidays and less competition means more money for you. 3. HIGHER DEMAND - Since the supply of listings will dramatically increase in January there will be less demand for your particular home. Less demand means less money for your home. 4. SHOWS BETTER - Houses show better when decorated for the holidays. 5. EMOTIONAL BUYERS - Buyers are more emotional during the holidays so they are more likely to pay a higher price. 6. MORE TIME TO SHOP - Buyers have more time to look for a home during the holidays than they do during a working week. 7. TAX BREAKS - Some people must buy before the end of the year for tax reasons. 8. TRANSFEREES - January is traditionally the month for employees to begin new jobs. Since transferees cannot wait until spring to buy, your house must be listed now to capture that market. 18

SW Lake Lifestyle | December 2015

9. YOU CHOOSE - You can still be on the market, but you have the option to restrict showings during the six or seven days during the holidays. 10. CLOSE WHEN CONVENIENT - You can sell now for more money and we will provide for a delayed closing or extended occupancy until early next year. 11. SET YOURSELF UP TO BUY - By selling now you may have an opportunity to be a non-contingent buyer during the spring when many more houses are on the market for less money. This will allow you to sell high and buy low. There are many strategies to selling your home. The winter market is a great way to showcase your property in the best light. To find out what’s best for you and your family, contact a real estate agent today to provide you with solid advice on how to be successful in today’s market.

Helen Oliveri is a 12-year real estate professional who loves our community; helping clients achieve their real estate goals is her priority. She is the managing broker of the newly opened Keller Williams Realty Partners, home of The Helen Oliveri Team in Hawthorn Woods, Illinois, where she also resides. Feel free to visit the new office in Cherry Hill Plaza at 101 W. Gilmer Road. Visit online at HelenOliveri.com.

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Locally Owned

INTERIOR DESIGN

With Integrity MEET CARMEN BOYER OF WHITE OAK INTERIORS

PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF WHITE OAK INTERIORS

WHERE DID YOU GROW UP? HOW LONG HAVE YOU LIVED IN THE AREA?

grew up in Sterling, Illinois, approximately 100 miles southwest. I’ve lived in Algonquin for almost 20 years with my husband Neil and our daughter Jordan. This is the longest time we have lived in one location in my married lifetime. During the first 20 years of our marriage we moved ten times! I can empathize with people who must decorate their homes quickly, resourcefully and beautifully.

TELL US ABOUT EVENTS THAT LED UP TO WHERE YOU ARE NOW.

My degree is in Pharmaceutical Science from University of Illinois, Chicago Medical Center. After practicing pharmacy for 15 years my family moved to Sydney, Australia for three years for my husband’s company. While living there I took the opportunity to follow my passion of interior design and decorating and was able to attend many decorative art classes ranging from antique silver to faux painting. I am also influenced by our many travels throughout the Pacific Asia Rim. Once back in the U.S. we moved to Atlanta. There, I spent an entire year rehabbing a beautiful French Normandy home that had suffered years of neglect. After all of my hard work we moved within 2 months! CONTINUED >

SW Lake Lifestyle | December 2015

Locally Owned

(CON TI N U ED)

WHAT ELSE SHOULD WE KNOW ABOUT YOU, YOUR FAMILY, OR YOUR BUSINESS?

White Oak Interiors prides itself on being able to give back to the community by donating 10 % of its net earnings annually. I feel extremely blessed to have a career I love so much. I am happy to be able to share my blessing in my own small way. With hundreds of successfully completed interior design projects and more than 16 years of experience designing in the Chicagoland area, White Oak Interiors is committed to excellence, innovation and building lifetime relationships. No matter the limit to your budget, there's no limit to the talents of Carmen and her team. Learn more about White Oak Interiors at WhiteOakInteriors.com. However, this experience confirmed that I truly wanted to do interior design and decorating professionally. After moving to Algonquin I quickly seized the opportunity to open my own business.

WHAT IS UNIQUE ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS?

White Oak Interiors offers complete interior design and decorating services. Our service is personalized and comes right to your door. When you hire White Oak Interiors you obtain the benefit of an experienced professional who can solve problems, save you time, help you avoid costly mistakes and most importantly -- create an attractive, affordable space designed specifically to meet your lifestyle needs. In addition to in-depth knowledge of products, materials and finishes, White Oak Interiors has the training and expertise to plan, schedule, execute and manage projects from start to finish. We know and work closely with many vendors, contractors and other service providers, coordinating and orchestrating the entire design team. We also provide specification and purchasing services to procure materials, furniture, accessories and art -- some of which you might not be able to find on your own.

WHAT ADVICE CAN YOU OFFER TO OUR READERS BASED ON YOUR EXPERTISE?

Remember, decorating your home or business is a continuous process. Your space should be uniquely suited to you. As your life changes your environment needs to grow and evolve with you. Your home and business should be a place you love to come to each and every day. Therefore, adjustments to your décor are always necessary for your well-being. The decorating and design process with White Oak Interiors is easy and enjoyable.

SW Lake Lifestyle | December 2015

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December 2015 | SW Lake Lifestyle

Rehabilitation

&Y u Understanding Your Benefits ARTICLE LINDA SMITH

eing hospitalized can be an overwhelming experienceÂ and thinking about insurance coverage during this time can be daunting. Many

times patients are ready to be discharged from the hospital, but are not quite ready to transition back home due to weakness and safety concerns. A rehabilitation setting is a good stepping-stone where someone can work with a variety of therapy services to improve strength and stability before heading home to regular daily activities. Whether you have traditional Medicare, a Medicare replacement plan, or a privately purchased health insurance policy, you may be entitled to rehabilitation benefits following a hospital stay. Â With the increasing number of Medicare replacement plans, coordinating rehabilitation following a CONTINUED >

SW Lake Lifestyle | December 2015

December 2015 | SW Lake Lifestyle

REHABILITATION & YOU (CON TI N UED)

hospital stay can be more difficult. Traditional Medicare allows someone to go to rehabilitation following a three night qualifying hospital stay and therapy orders. There is no pre-certification required. However, private insurance plans and Medicare replacement plans usually require the rehabilitation facility to pre-certify benefits. It is important that the rehabilitation facility gets prior authorization for your rehabilitation stay and that you are made aware of the certification number and any co-pays you the patient may be required to pay. Most rehabilitation centers have contracts with insurance companies that allow them to be in-network with the insurance carrier. This means that the rehabilitation center accepts payment in full from the insurance carrier and usually there is no co-payment due from the patient. However, if you elect to go to a rehabilitation center that is out of network with your insurance, you may be responsible for a large co-pay upon discharge. In addition, most private insurance carriers require that your deductible be met before they begin payment. Usually deductibles are met in the hospital stay period so in most cases the rehabilitation center would be covered fully. While Medicare A patients are required to have a three night qualifying stay in the hospital prior to rehab, some private insurance or Medicare replacement policies offer rehabilitation with no prior hospital stay required. And some policies cover more days in a rehabilitation facility than traditional Medicare. It is important that the rehabilitation center has a staff member who works with your insurance company to obtain the proper preauthorization and help ensure your stay is eligible for coverage. Often times insurance companies request periodic review of inpatient rehabilitation cases to determine if they feel coverage should continue. The rehabilitation center should work closely with therapy to communicate the needs of each patient to their insurance to ensure that coverage is able to continue as long as there is progress to be met toward each patient's individualized goals. Medicare benefits, Medicare replacement plans and private insurance benefits are a difficult road to travel. It is important that you understand your own policy and what benefits are available to you. It is also important that the rehabilitation center that will be treating you is educated and informed on the most up to date changes in the industry. Linda Smith is the marketing director atÂ LutheranHome.org in Arlington Heights, Illinois. 26

SW Lake Lifestyle | December 2015

If you haven’t heard about High Pointe, it’s time you did!

High Pointe of Hawthorn Woods Nestled in the woods will be 22 ranch and two story, villa duplex homes. Don’t worry about mowing the lawn or shoveling the snow - just enjoy your new home, customized to reflect your personal style. For more information, contact Greg Schmitt Rand Realty (847) 612-3978 prestigedevelopment.wordpress.com

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NEW YORK CITY

Yes, it may be an old Yuletide standby, but it is still much more impressive in person. The tree at Rockefeller Center is almost certainly the world’s most famous Christmas tree, but it’s only the centerR o c ke

fell

piece for a city-wide Christmas display. Nothing Ce

beats carriage rides through Central Park, the

elaborate department store displays, and

strolls through the some of the city’s

Ne ork C it wY

classic brownstone-lined streets..

y New Yo

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Holiday

Travel Around The World Festivities ARTICLE SUE SHIMKUS

C h r i st m a s M a

here will you go to celebrate the

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t in

holidays? If your holiday plans in-

Fr a

clude travel to enjoy the festivities around

the world, here are a few choices for you:

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EUROPEAN CHRISTMAS MARKETS

Wonderful, especially when enjoyed on a river cruise. The holidays are pure magic along Europe’s waterways. Storybook villages and snow-capped castles line the river banks. A festive spirit fills the crisp air. In grand cities and charming towns alike, exuberant Christmas markets celebrate the season with colorful crafts, gingerbread and warm, spicy glühwein. Europe’s fairy-tale villages and sparkling cities provide the ideal backdrop for the holiday season. In medieval town squares and down cobbled lanes, children delight in hand-carved toys. Aromas of old-world family recipes waft from kitchens: hot potatoes and chestnuts, grilled sausages and a sweet array of baked treats. Market stalls overflow with handmade crafts, ornaments, nutcrackers and colorful woolen scarves. A river cruise will take you from one festive city to the next without ever unpacking! On board, foster warmth and friendship while enjoying Christmas singalongs, festive gatherings and more. Enjoy regional traditional holiday music with local ensembles who perform on board. 28

SW Lake Lifestyle | December 2015

Ye ar

’s E

ve ,

A us

trali

SYDNEY HARBOUR NEW YEAR’S EVE, AUSTRALIA

Far and away my personal favorite, all-time best New Year’s Eve Celebration took place in the Sydney Harbour. The elaborate pyrotechnic displays, including the 9 p.m. family fireworks and the midnight fireworks, are synchronized to a soundtrack and the fireworks explode off the arches, catwalk, and roadway of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the city buildings. This is generally the first city in the world to reach midnight and therefore the first televised New Year's Eve presentation world wide. I experienced this while sailing on a Crystal Cruise from Auckland, New Zealand to Melbourne, Australia over the Christmas and New Year's week, and spent New Year's Eve on a catamaran in the front row of the harbor while enjoying the spectacular show, listening to a band, and enjoying champagne and an elaborate spread of food! This year Crystal Cruises is sailing to Rio de Janeiro. As always, you will celebrate in style while the two ships are transformed into whimsical holiday wonderlands with more than $100,000 in decorations to celebrate Hanukkah, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s. The festivities include seasonal parties, dances, carols, tree lightings, spirited musical productions, sessions with Santa, holiday movies, religious services and traditional feasts.

CONTINUED >

December 2015 | SW Lake Lifestyle

HOLIDAY TRAVEL

(CON TI N U ED)

SWEET HOME, CHICAGO

Check out the millions of holiday

hic

o ag

lights strung up around the Magnificent Mile, enjoy the Christkindmarket, a large outdoor German crafts market and Navy Pier’s Winter WonderFest, a holiday-themed amusement park with an indoor skating rink. What is your favorite destination for holiday travel? Send Lake Zurich Travel an email and we might include your favorite in our next story! Email Sue Shimkus, president of Lake Zurich Travel and Lakeside Travel Advisors in Wauconda at Sue@LZtravel.com.

Re in

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, Finlan d

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NAPAPIIRI IN LAPLAND, FINLAND

This smart town doesn’t let the natural presence of reindeer, snowy backdrops and a location straddling the Arctic Circle go to waste. The conditions here are prime for CHRISTMAS IN MEXICO

A girl on a donkey leads a candle-carrying procession past San Miguel de Allende’s shops festooned with piñatas and poinsettias. When they stop before a Spanish-colonial building and break into song, you realize you’re witnessing the reenactment of Joseph and Mary’s search for shelter that takes place in the days leading up to Christmas. December events in San Miguel begin in early December and last through the first week in January. The last two weeks in December include the Chamber Music Festival, one of the country’s best classical music fests.

holiday revelers and where Christmas fantasies abound. The region boasts two major St. Nick-themed parks: The Santa Claus Village, a popular amusement park which draws families from all over Europe and Santa Park, which is geared more toward children, but features impressive ice sculptures and quaint shops. Known as “Europe’s Christmas capital," Santa Claus Village and Santa Park are located at the foot of the Arctic Circle. Each draws thousands of visitors every year from all over the world to tour the two different Santa themed parks, which include real reindeer, a tour of Santa’s workshop and a meeting with Santa himself.

SW Lake Lifestyle | December 2015

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Driver’s Notebook

Introducing the 2016

CADILLAC CT6

REINVENTING THE PRESTIGE SEDAN

ow does one reinvent himself? By looking at Cadillac’s all-new CT6 sedan, one would say the process is thoughtful and deliberate. Riding the line between the demands of traditional luxury and modern finesse, the CT6 grasps the past in one fist while pointing towards the future. To start, the CT6 has size, but is no longer weighed down by the demand to be big. The mission was to avoid as much avoidable poundage as possible, which Cadillac did by implementing a considerable amount of aluminum propelled by a lot of mixed-material engineering. The result? The CT6 weighs the same as the smaller CTS and stretches an additional 8.5 inches longer. That means more agility. That means better driving performance without comprising the comfort of luxury. In an un-Cadillac fashion, Cadillac rolled out its luxury sedan without any trace of a V-8 engine. That is to say, for now. The CT6’s base engine is GM’s 2.0-liter turbo inline-four, topping it out at 265 horsepower, followed by two all-new V-6 engines as you climb up the ladder of luxury. The first jump to mid-level lands you with a 335 horsepower 3.6-liter V-6, plus all-wheel drive. If that doesn’t wet your whistle, then jump even farther and get a 400 horsepower 4.0-liter twin turbo charged V-6 engine, and all-wheel drive, again. Like we said, down the road it is expected Cadillac will implement a high-performance twin-turbo V-8 engine, but there’s no word on that yet. 32

SW Lake Lifestyle | December 2015

Cadillac’s attention to modern demands leaves you wanting for nothing as the CT6 is loaded with gadgets. To begin with, its exterior cameras grant it the ability to see 360-degrees around the vehicle. See all around the CT6 via its high definition 10.2-inch touch screen. The CT6 has a plethora of high performing screens, like behind the front seats for a passenger’s viewing pleasure, as well as one installed into the rearview mirror. It also has a state of the art Bose sound system (featuring 34 speakers), wireless phone charging capabilities, and built in 4G LTE with Wi-Fi. Like we said, no modern demand isn’t met in the Cadillac CT6. Critics of the CT6 who were looking for more flash, like Cadillac’s highly anticipated Elmiraj and Ciel models, should be cautioned. The design isn’t reserved; it's composed. While the future isn’t here yet for Cadillac’s luxury expansion, it’s on the way. The new Cadillac CT6 sedan is a stepping stone to the future of a historic vehicle designer. That same idea translates at Motor Werks Auto Group. Whether you buy a vehicle or not, Motor Werks ensures every customer receives exceptional service and specialized attention. The emphasis at Motor Werks has always been on developing long-term relationships with clients based on trust, integrity and honesty. When you combine the best cars with unprecedented training and uncompromised service and amenities, it’s easy to understand how “nobody works like Motor Werks to earn your business.” Visit Motor Werks Cadillac of Barrington to discover a new way of car-buying.

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December 2015 | SW Lake Lifestyle

Real Wives

Introducing JoAnne Vrtacnik REAL WIVES OF SW LAKE COUNTY WHO LIVES IN YOUR HOUSE?

Mark, my husband of 20 years now; our daughters Madelyn (17) and Karleigh (14); my two nieces Aislinn (4) and Kaelynn (3) of whom we now have custody and our two puppies Bella and Colada. DO YOU WORK OUTSIDE THE HOME?

I work as the member relations manager for the Lake Zurich Area Chamber of Commerce. ARE YOU NATIVE TO OR TRANSPLANTED TO THE AREA?

We moved here two and a half years ago from Ohio for my husband’s job with Heinen’s Grocery Store.

WHAT ARE YOUR FAMILY HOLIDAY TRADITIONS?

We go to midnight Mass on Christmas Eve and we hide the ChristWHAT ARE YOUR FAVORITE LAKE COUNTY HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS?

mas Pickle in Christmas tree.

All of the tree lighting celebrations… and the arrival of Santa Clause… and all of the holiday decorations!

WHO IS THE PERSON YOU RESPECT THE MOST, AND WHY?

My husband. Not many people would do what he has done for my YOUR GUILTIEST FOOD PLEASURE?

family, especially by taking in two little ones when our girls will be off

My homemade Kolachky Christmas cookies!

to college soon. His selfless acts, along with his tremendous amount of support and unconditional love, are beyond what words can describe.

HOW WOULD YOUR BEST FRIEND DESCRIBE YOU?

Caring, genuine, outgoing, fun, crazy, smart and sassy. YOUR FAVORITE DATE NIGHT?

YOUR FAVORITE HOLIDAY SONG?

“The Christmas Song” by Nat King Cole. It really makes me think of how fortunate I am to be able to spend the holidays with my chil-

What's that?! LOL! With four kids now, our date nights are being tem-

dren… yet at the same time it also inspires me to go out and be with

porarily stored in the iCloud!

those that don't have family, are lonely or are suffering.

A UNIQUE OR INTERESTING FACT ABOUT YOURSELF?

WHAT IS ON YOUR CHRISTMAS LIST?

I am one of eight children and I grew up on an 87-acre vegetable farm

I don't have a Christmas list. I am blessed to have what I have and

in Ohio where I learned the appreciation for hard work—and great tast-

will continue to work harder to get the things that I want. I just want to

ing produce! I also love to fish and I fillet what I catch myself.

be healthy for my family and set a good example for our children and others. I couldn't ask for anything more.

WHAT WOULD YOU NAME THE AUTOBIOGRAPHY OF YOUR LIFE?

Life's A Dance WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE HOLIDAY MOVIE?

The Santa Clause starring Tim Allen. 34

SW Lake Lifestyle | December 2015

WHAT ARE YOU MOST GRATEFUL FOR THIS HOLIDAY SEASON?

Those that have helped and supported us through the transition of bringing the two little ones into our home. They say it takes a community to raise a child... I truly understand that and am forever grateful.

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Lifestyle Calendar

December THROUGH DECEMBER 24

DECEMBER 4

LONG GROVE'S HOLIDAY FESTIVITIES

LAKE ZURICH'S ANNUAL WINTER

DOWNTOWN LONG GROVE

CELEBRATION AND TREE LIGHTING

Experience a variety of family fun in charming and historic Long

ROTARY PARK

Grove. On weekends enjoy caroling, Santa strolling around for photos

Come start the holiday season at the Lake Zurich annual tree light-

with the children, horse-drawn carriage rides and more! The Visitor's

ing—enjoy an evening of caroling, a visit from Santa Claus and free

Center will provide a free gift to customers that spend $150 in the

refreshments. Admission is free.

Long Grove shops and restaurants.

DECEMBER 4

DECEMBER 2

HAWTHORN WOODS TREE

GINGERBREAD BASH

LIGHTING CEREMONY

LAKE COUNTY DISCOVERY MUSEUM, WAUCONDA

HAWTHORN WOODS

Children ages 2-5 and an adult are invited to join the fun of the small

VILLAGE BARN

discoveries! Join us as we learn about the legend of the gingerbread

Usher in the holiday season and see

man and make a seasonal craft. A great opportunity to learn, make

Santa at the Annual Hawthorn Woods

new friends, and get to know other families.

Tree Lighting Ceremony. Join Mayor Mancino, the Village Board of Trust-

DECEMBER 3 - 6

ees, your Village Staff and your commu-

2015 CHRISTKINDL HOLIDAY FESTIVAL

nity neighbors at this FREE traditional

DOWNTOWN BARRINGTON

holiday event!

Christkindl Festival is an open-air event during the holiday season featuring authentic German food, live entertainment, unique hand-crafted mer-

DECEMBER 5

chandise, drinks, fun activities for families and kids crafts, live reindeer and

GINGERBREAD LANE

even Santa's house! Visit the website for a complete list of entertainment.

AND SLED DOGS NORTON'S U.S.A., BARRINGTON During Barrington’s Holiday Tradition, join our festive time while visiting with sled dogs! Sled dogs will visit the store at 11 a.m., 12 p.m. CONTINUED >

WHOLESALE CARPET DESIGNS Our Service and Selection Will Floor You

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SW Lake Lifestyle | December 2015

LIBERTYVILLE, 1410 N. Milwaukee Ave. Phone: 847-549-9500 • Fax: 847-549-9504

Picture Yourself Here! WE CAN MAKE YOUR DREAM TRIP COME TRUE! CONTACT US TODAY!

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December 2015 | SW Lake Lifestyle

Lifestyle Calendar

(CON TI N UED)

and 3 p.m. Meet the huskies and take a picture in the dog sled! Warm cider and gingerbread will be served.

DECEMBER 5 SANTA'S GRAND HOLIDAY ARRIVAL AT THE ICE HOUSE MALL BARRINGTON Visit the historic Ice House Mall & Village Shops for a performance of the Nutcracker by Midwest Dance and a children's holiday character parade followed by Santa's arrival, cookies and milk, and more!

DECEMBER 5 THE VELVETEEN RABBIT KIRK OF THE LAKES CHURCH, MUNDELEIN This a charming and magical story of the real love that happens between a young boy and his stuffed velveteen rabbit. Scott Davidson's lively adaptation will include fun theater participation games for the

The Law Offices of

DOMINICK DIMAGGIO Concentrating in Real Estate Law and Criminal Defense

youngsters before and after the performance. Visit KirkPlayers.org for ticket and performance details.

DECEMBER 6 THE SANFILIPPO FOUNDATION 2015 CHRISTMAS BRUNCH & CONCERT BARRINGTON HILLS Come out for a Champagne brunch and Christmas concert featuring one of the finest theater organists in the World, Dave Wickerham, and Opera Bass-Baritone William Powers. Tickets go on sale soon and must be bought online, in advance, via the SanFilippoFoundation.org website.

DECEMBER 9 SENIOR MONTHLY LUNCHEON – HOLIDAY EDITION!

call today for your free consultation Dominick DiMaggio is a practicing attorney with over 20 years of experience in Real Estate and Criminal law. He currently serves as a Trustee for the Village of Hawthorn Woods. In regards to real estate transactions, his practice concentrates in representing Sellers, Purchasers and Short Sales. His criminal practice includes representing clients charged with a DUI, Traffic, Misdemeanor or Felony charge.

238 Robert Parker Coffin Rd., Long Grove

(847) 383-5538 · dimaggiolegal.com 38

SW Lake Lifestyle | December 2015

HAWTHORN WOODS COUNTRY CLUB Join us for a special holiday edition of the Senior Group monthly luncheon! Our group meets one Wednesday each month from noon to 1 p.m. Enjoy good friends, good food, memorable moments and holiday cheer. Visit VHW.org for more information. Attendance is complimentary; please bring a dish to pass.

DECEMBER 11 HAWTHORN WOODS MOVIE IN THE BARN HAWTHORN WOODS VILLAGE BARN Gather for a cozy night with friends and family at this FREE Movie- inthe-Barn event featuring Happy Feet 2. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for a

craft before settling in for the feature presentation at 7 p.m. Complimentary popcorn will be available.

DECEMBER 12 ELF DASH 5K "COME CHASE SANTA" INDEPENDENCE GROVE FOREST PRESERVE

Furs by Talidis The Mink Barn

A flat point-to-point 5k course before Christmas most likely with some snow on the ground adding more fun and excitement to the event. It starts and finishes at the Independence Grove Forest Preserve.

DECEMBER 12 - 20 CHRISTMAS PAGEANT BETHLEHEM'S TOWER QUENTIN ROAD BAPTIST CHURCH, LAKE ZURICH Featuring original songs and orchestration by David Clydesdale, take a special holiday journey this season with a 300-voice children-and-adult choir, dramatic lighting, and live animals—including an 8 foot camel—to see what really happened that first Christmas night in Bethlehem long ago. Visit QRChristmas.com for ticket information and performance times.

DECEMBER 15 WINE DOWN AT BROKEN EARTH WINERY DOWNTOWN LONG GROVE Join Broken Earth Winery on Tuesday, December 15th from 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. to create your own work of art! Price is $35 per person and includes paint, canvas and professional artist instruction from Bottle & Bottega of Arlington Heights. Required pre-registration and information at BrokenEarthWineryLG.com .

Our wide variety of furs includes

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business directory AUTOMOTIVE Motor Werks (847) 969-5425 motorwerks.com

CHILD CAMPS, CARE & TUTORING

Wise Balance Lifestyle (847) 712-4949 wisebalancelifestyle.com

HOME BUILDERS & REMODELERS

Boone Creek Cabinetry and Design Goldfish Swim School (815) 385-8414 (847) 371-9000 mundelein.goldfishswimschool.com boonecreekcabinet.com

COMMUNITY EVENTS & ORGANIZATIONS Barrington Area Chamber of Commerce (847) 381-2525 barringtonchamber.com

EDUCATION

St Viator High School (847) 392-4050 saintviator.com

FASHION & ACCESSORIES

Furs by Talidis - The Mink Barn (815) 923-2161 theminkbarn.com House of Betty Jane (224) 677-5234 houseofbettyjane.com Pr3tty Shop (224) 286-1189 pr3ttyshop.com

FINANCIAL SERVICES & PLANNING

MGT Stone, Inc. (Marble and Granite Tech) (847) 713-8023 mgtstone.com Suran Built (815) 444-1293 suranbuilt.com The Fetherling and High Point Developments - Prestige Development, Inc. (847) 612-3978

HOME DESIGN & FURNISHINGS

2 Fancie Girls (309) 265-4227 2fanciegals.wix.com/shop Schwake Stone and Fireplace (847) 566-0799 schwakestone.com Shelf Genie (888) 663-3818 shelfgenie.com

Dorion Gray Retirement Planning White Oak Interiors (847) 894-8852 (815) 459-6800 whiteoakinteriors.com doriongray.com

HEALTH & WELLNESS Illinois Vein Specialists (847) 277-9100 illinoisveinspecialists.com

Wholesale Carpet Designs, Inc. (847) 415-2000 wholesalecarpetdesign.com

SW Lake Lifestyle | December 2015

HOME SERVICES

Eco Automated Designs (847) 475-4442 ecoautomateddesigns.com

SALONS & SPAS Avalon Salon-Spa (847) 726-8855 avalondeerpark.com

Seasonal Landscape Solutions Eighteen Eight Fine (847) 652-8458 Mens Salons seasonallandscape.com (224) 633-2188 The Barn Nursery (847) 658-3883 barnnurserylandscape.com

LEGAL SERVICES Dominick T DiMaggio (847) 452-7992

OTHER

Coyote Marsh & Associates, Inc (847) 277-7353 coyotemarsh.com Epilogue (847) 383-5912 epilogueart.com

PROPERTY & REAL ESTATE Helen Oliveri Team (847) 967-0022 helenoliveri.com

Landmark Partners Commercial Realty (847) 649-2666 lpcommercial.com

RESTAURANTS, FOOD & BEVERAGE Broken Earth Winery (847) 383-5052 brokenearthwinerylg.com

Mandile’s Italian Ristorante, Banquets & Catering (847) 458-4000 mandilesrestaurant.com

Electrology and Skincare by Janet (847) 970-7546 hairremovalbyjanet.com Nisha Skin Spa Med Spa and Laser (847) 805-8043 nishaskinspa.com

SENIOR LIVING & SERVICES Lutheran Home (847) 368-7404 lutheranhome.org

SHOPPING CENTERS Deer Park Town Centers (847) 726-7755 shopdeerparktowncenter.com

SPECIALTY SHOPS Lumberjack’s (815) 337-1451 lumberjax.com

Out of the Box (815) 444-7446 outoftheboxstore.com Whole Foods Market (847) 726-4601 wholefoodsmarket.com

TRAVEL & LEISURE

Lake Zurich Travel & Cruise (847) 438-5551 lztravel.com Midwest Spas (847) 438-3500 midwestspasinc.com

Serve Your Guests The Best shop.wfm.com

Parting Thoughts

Wrap Less, Remember More

CELEBRATING THE HOLIDAY SPIRIT WORDS RHIANNON BANKES

ecember is a month of remembrance and celebrations, but too often it is also a month of overwhelming obligations and rampant commercialism. The combination of guilt, stress, lack of sleep and overspending tend to turn the last month of the year into a whirlwind of overextended schedules. Don’t let negative emotions and unrealistic expectations take over this season. You won’t get a prize if you pack every spare moment with errands, shopping, and trying to make everything perfect. If anything, you will run yourself down and get a cold or worse. Promise yourself that this year you will focus on your family, friends and yourself. Let go of the picture you have in your mind of the perfect holiday setting. Whether that image is of an immaculately set dinner table, your pets gazing lovingly at your Christmas tree or your children delicately lighting the menorah, it’s rarely going to happen. What will happen is someone will spill wine on your antique tablecloth, your dog will chase your cat up the tree, and your child will try to light all the candles on the menorah the first night, not to mention their sibling’s hair. No one will remember how perfectly pressed your napkins were, but they are going to remember the touch football game everyone played in the back yard after the meal. Crank up the holiday music and make cookies. Snuggle on the couch to watch a movie marathon or football game. Make a new tra42

SW Lake Lifestyle | December 2015

dition; sometimes the sillier the better: ice cream sundaes for breakfast or making a snow man without the snow. Pick a craft to make as a family or organize a scavenger hunt. Write letters to each other and yourself. Stick a short note in your holiday decorations box listing this season’s successful and not-so-successful adventures. When you open the box next year, you will remember how frustrated you were that you tried to make home made cranberry sauce when everyone just wanted the canned kind, but how much everyone loved spending a whole Saturday in their pajamas. Volunteer time to a charity or perform a community service project with your friends. Send care packages to military personnel and visit your local nursing homes. This holiday season, vow to spend fewer afternoons fighting the holiday crowds at the mall and more time on fulfilling activities. Make sure to allow yourself plenty of down time. A nice glass of wine or cocoa by the fire, or a hot bubble bath, puts a lot in perspective at the end of a long day. Reflect on all you have achieved in 2015 and decide what your goals are for the new year. Ask yourself what has made you smile the most this year and holiday season. Focus on incorporating those things into your 2016 schedule. Don’t drain yourself this December. Fill yourself with the hope and love of the season… and maybe a few more of those cookies.

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