CHICAGO | NORTH SHORE FALL 2020
W E A S K E D, YO U VOT E D
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Award-Winning
Wallcovering Installation Founded more than 50 years ago, Hester Painting & Decorating is renowned for providing the very best in painting and faux finishing. With the same care and decades of expertise, Hester installs the most intricate wallcoverings, including hand painted Gracie Paper, de Gourney, Zuber & Cie, grass cloths and metallic leafed papers. “Hester did a flawless installation of a silver-leaf wallcovering on a ceiling for me. The only way to keep my clients resting easy is to specify Hester!” – LIZ MCENANEY, E. CLAIRE DESIGN, CHICAGO, IL
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Maya Romanoff – Mother of Pearl
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With Telehealth, there’s no reason to put off the care you need. Get connected to NorthShore experts online or on the phone without leaving home. Telehealth makes it easy to access the care you need, from primary care to consulting with a specialist for a serious health condition. At NorthShore, we’re taking every step to ensure your safety to help you get the care you need—online, on the phone or in person.
Telehealth and e-Visits offer care without leaving home
For in-person visits, we practice the latest COVID-19 safety protocols
Prompt treatment can improve your overall health
Get the care you need—online, on the phone or in person. Schedule an appointment today. northshore.org/telehealth | (847) 570-5020
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Contents
For more up-to-the-minute articles, subscribe to our Better Letter and follow us on Instagram @betterchicago, Facebook and Twitter at @chicagobetter and visit us online at better.net
FALL 2020
FEATURES
IN CHICAGO
24
17
Back to School A look at how schools are pivoting during the pandemic, plus a Q&A with homeschooling parents.
28
Currents Monet takes Chicago; a look at the restoration of the historic Uptown Theatre; a Q&A with Broadway and Netflix star Heather Headley; and more.
Best of 2020 It’s the 10th year we're celebrating your favorite local businesses and organizations with our annual readers' choice awards! So, without further ado, the Best of 2020 winners are...
22
49
DESTINATIONS
Private School Guide A comprehensive list of private schools throughout Chicago and the suburbs.
65
Shop Local Upgrade your home base with these items from local stores.
72
Hiking The best spots for some exercise and beautiful scenery outside of Chicago.
Spaces Glencoe residents team up with Scott Simpson Design + Build to bring their vision to life.
IN EVERY ISSUE
EAT & DRINK
78 Calendar
75
80 Better Makers
Oktoberfest Toast autumn with these seasonal beers from local breweries.
12 View from the Team 14 New in Town
82 Reflections
On the cover: From top left: Arlen Music Productions, The Flower Shop of Glencoe, Julie Kaplan Photography, North Shore Weddings and Events By Eric Floberg Photography, Writers Theatre, Bleach Chicago, Koi, The Flower Shop of Glencoe, Big Blue Swim School, Andreas Hogue Salon, Our Lady of Perpetual Help School, MVFitness, Share Wilmette, Sunda, Honey Bridal, KidSnips, Destination Door County Hotel Julian
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hilary bailes interior design hilary bailes interior design
1866 north halsted street, coach house hilary bailes interior design hilary bailes interior design chicago, illinios 60614 1866 north halsted street, coach house 1866 north halsted street, coach house chicago, illinios773.368.5051 60614 illinioshb@hilarybailesdesign.com chicago, 60614 hilarybailesdesign.com hb@hilarybailesdesign.com 773.368.5051 773.368.5051 hb@hilarybailesdesign.com hilarybailesdesign.com hilarybailesdesign.com
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Our Better Half Is Online
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BETTER.NET
THE POWER OF THREE BRANDS & OUR DIGITAL PLATFORM
FOUNDER, MAKE IT BETTER MEDIA GROUP PUBLISHER, BETTER & MARIN MAGAZINE Susan B. Noyes
Editorial
VIRTUAL EVENTS Winning in 2020 – Growth Through Social Impact & Digital Innovation Best Of 2020 Virtual Event September 30th
Meet the Best Of 2020 winners in Chicago and the Bay Area and learn from visionary business and nonprofit leaders whose organizations do well because they do good and they pivoted digitally when the pandemic hit.
EDITOR IN CHIEF NATIONAL DIGITAL CONTENT DIRECTOR Brooke Geiger McDonald MARIN MAGAZINE EDITOR IN CHIEF NATIONAL PRINT EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Mimi Towle SENIOR DIGITAL EDITOR Jessica Gliddon MANAGING EDITOR – CHICAGO Macaire Douglas MANAGING EDITOR – BAY AREA Kasia Pawlowska DINING EDITOR Julie Chernoff ASSISTANT EDITORS Madison Muller, Sabrina Tuton-Filson EDITORIAL INTERN Sydney Pearson CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Lisa Boquiren, Tate Gunnerson, Carrie Kirby, Karl Klockars, Jackie Pilossoph, Jessica Suss, Shannan Younger
Asaf Bar-Tura Executive Director The SMART Program
Laura Coy Director of Philanthropy Strategy – William Blair
Art
Learn More at better.net/virtualevents/best-of-2020-celebration
GRAPHIC DESIGNER Lisa Hilgers PRODUCTION DIRECTOR Alex French
The Secrets to Reducing Your College Costs A Live Webinar September 24th Marin Magazine, a sister Make It Better Media Group publication, will hold an online webinar on Sept. 24 to help readers understand how to substantially reduce out-of-pocket costs for college, with a focus on reducing college costs for middle and high income families.
If you are wondering how to finance your child’seducation tune in live or, after Sept. 24, check out the recording at marinmagazine.com. Learn More at marinmagazine.com/webinar/ college-cash-secrets/
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS David Duncan Livingston, Todd Rosenberg, Jacquelyn Warner
Administration CIVIC DEVELOPMENT Sharon Krone CONTROLLER Maeve Walsh TECHNICAL OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Jennifer Speaker
For more up-to-theminute articles, tips, trends and things to do, subscribe to our Better Letter and follow us online at @betterchicago and better.net
B et ter i s publ i shed by Ma ke It B et t er L L C, 2 03 N. L a Sa l le S t r e e t , S u i t e 2 1 0 0 , C h i c a g o I L 6 0 6 0 1 . P h o n e : 8 4 7. 2 5 6 . 4 6 4 2 . C opy r ig ht 2 019 by M a ke It B et t er L L C . A l l r ig ht s r e s er ve d . POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Better, 203 N. LaSalle Street, Suite 2100, Chicago IL, 60601. Make It Better is registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Copyright 2019 by Make It Better LLC. All rights reserved.
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Be Better — the rest follows. Be better...everyday. These are serious times. The world is being challenged on so many levels. As with everything, we should navigate through it in a better way. Be respectful and grateful while being smart and empathetic. Those same principles apply to the real estate market. The market is moving aggressively on the North Shore and we are re-evaluating daily as we see properties selling at a faster rate than normal. Proper protocol and a myriad of customized Covid sensitive showing strategies have allowed for houses to continue to go under contract. Strategic insights are more important than ever in this market.
Do Better... Take action. One small way we have to share our gratitude is by donating a percentage of every deal to an organization special thank you to all those on the front lines who have been doing better everyday.
Paige Dooley paige.dooley@compass.com 847.609.0963
The Paige Dooley Team is a team of Real Estate agents afďŹ liated with Compass. Compass is a licensed Real Estate broker and abides by federal, state and local Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only, is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, and changes without notice. All measurements and square footages are approximate. This is not intended to solicit property already listed. Nothing herein shall be construed as legal, accounting or other professional advice outside the realm of Real Estate brokerage. 851 Spruce Street, Winnetka, IL 60093.
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Our Better Half Is Online
better.net
THE POWER OF THREE BRANDS & OUR DIGITAL PLATFORM
BETTER.NET
Media MEDIA DIRECTOR Leah Bronson | lbronson@makeitbetter.com MEDIA CONSULTANT Julie Eldring | jeldring@makeitbetter.com
How to Reduce Your Portfolio’s Carbon Footprint – A Live Webinar October 8th Learn how to make the most of your financial investments and diversify your portfolio for longevity. Patrick Costello has been in the industry since 1994 and is sharing his in-depth knowledge of sustainable investing to strengthen your portfolio while simultaneously helping the environment. Learn More better.net/webinar/green-riverfinancial-webinar
SPACES Newsletter – Living Well by Design Love great design? Want to take your home to the next level? You will find inspiration and expertise to help you live well by design through our newest brand, SPACES Magazine, at spacesmag.com. We curate elevated content that connects you to the leaders in the design, home decor and real estate. Sign up for our bimonthly newsletter at: spacesmag.com/ subscribe-to-spaces Featured Open House Listings + Virtual Tours If you love real estate as much as we do, then you will love the all-new featured open house
listings and virtual tours calendar. Take a look at some of the most luxurious and soughtafter properties in both Chicagoland and the San Francisco Bay Area. Take a tour now at spacesmag.com/events BETTER TOGETHER – COMMUNITYFOCUSED FUNDRAISING INITIATIVES Highlighting Chicago Heroes with the Red Cross The Covid-19 pandemic sadly forced the Chicago Red Cross to cancel its 18th annual Heroes Breakfast fundraiser, at which 14 heroes were to be honored. Better is proud to release their stories online instead, and we hope they will ultimately have even greater impact—for our heroes, the Red Cross and the world. We also hope it will inspire you to donate to the Red Cross, where your impactful gift will be doubled and will support the Red Cross on behalf of a hero at redcross.org/chicagohero. Fun in Film – A Bay Area Instagram Fundraiser to Earn Money for CFI As the Mill Valley Film Festival quickly approaches, Better’s sister publication Marin Magazine is helping raise money for this incredible organization by asking followers on Instagram to snap a photo of themselves in a famous film location in the Bay Area to earn $100 for CFI Education. Check out the hashtags #CFIeducation and #MVFF43 to see how people are getting involved! CFI Education is building the next generation of filmmakers and film lovers through its creative film programs for Bay Area students, serving more than 8,000 students of all ages and backgrounds per year.
MEDIA CONSULTANT Alyssa Armada | aarmada@makeitbetter.com STRATEGIC EVENTS AND MEDIA CONSULTANT Jennifer Woolford | jwoolford@makeitbetter.com MARKETING MANAGER Natasha Romanoff | natasha@makeitbetter.com MEDIA ART MANAGER Alex French
Regional Sales Offices WINE COUNTRY Lesley Cesare | lcesare@makeitbetter.com SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA / TAHOE Leah Bronson | lbronson@makeitbetter.com NEW YORK Karen Couture, Couture Marketing | 917.821.4429 HAWAII Debbie Anderson, Destination Marketing | 808.739.2200
Reader Services MAILING ADDRESS 203 N. LaSalle Street, Suite 2100, Chicago IL, 60601 PHONE 847.256.4642 INQUIRIES subscriptions@makeitbetter.com | 818.286.3111 editorial@makeitbetter.com LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Please send letters to editorial@makeitbetter.com. Be sure to include your full name, city, state and phone number. Better reserves the right to edit letters for clarity, length and style. SUBSCRIPTIONS Rates are $14.95 for out-of-state subscriptions or free for Illinois subscribers. To subscribe, manage your subscription or change your address visit better.net/chicago/better-subscription BULK ORDERS For information on bulk orders of Better, please email circulation@makeitbetter.com
Sign Up Do you receive our weekly Better Letter? It’s filled with ideas for weekend fun and then some. Sign up for our e-newsletters at better.net/newsletters and follow us online. facebook.com/chicagobetter better.net
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Investments in our community yield the greatest return
William Blair is proud to support our 2020-2021 Community Partners: Chicago Children’s Choir, Greenwood Project, and the Golden Apple Foundation. Investing in our community and the mission of each of these organizations truly enriches us all. For more information, visit: www.williamblair.com/About-William-Blair/ Community-Impact.aspx #WBCares
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Finding Better Together
A Reason to Celebrate Welcome to our Best of 2020 issue, the 10th anniversary reveal and celebration of the winners of our annual readers’ choice awards. If you are one of the many thousands of readers who cast an online vote, thank you! It’s never been more important to support the people, businesses and organizations that help make our communities great. Unveiling the winners of this annual competition is one of our favorite parts of the publishing year and we’re thrilled to share with you the exciting mix of newcomers and repeat winners that we celebrate here. Our savvy readers are passionate about their favorite spots in Chicago and on the North Shore, so you can bet that this list highlights the best of the best (p. 28). It was important to us to maintain our annual tradition with this Best Of 2020 issue, but it has certainly been a complicated, challenging time to do so! Our commitment to being a
What we've been up to this summer!
trusted, helpful community resource for our readers remains at the forefront in this magazine. That’s why we’ve also prioritized a topic that’s been top of mind for so many of our readers: education. In this unprecedented time when we face not just a pandemic, but political discord, climate change and social justice crises, it can feel like nothing is secure or enduring. But, the transformative benefits of a good education are lasting, and can never be taken away. That’s why promoting a good education for all is an important priority for us. Our hearts go out to educators who are trying to ensure that children still receive a good education in the face of Covid-19 challenges, and to parents who strive to support this effort, often while working full-time themselves. In this issue, beginning on page 24, we give you a snapshot of the state
Lots of family time this summer for Julie!
Our founder, Susan B. Noyes, participated in the #challengeaccepted movement on Instagram to support and empower other women. •
Macaire enjoyed a Black Is Beautiful beer from Scorched Earth Brewing after running the Walt Disney Birthplace Virtual 5K.
Brooke was interviewed on CNBC’s "Fast Money" about the reopening of Walt Disney World. •
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of Chicago-area education, provide e-learning tips, explore homeschooling, and share our comprehensive guide to private schools (p. 49). It’s a particularly hard time to be a teacher. We’re more grateful for their service than ever. So this month, we will be celebrating great educators online. Please participate by telling us and the world about your favorite teachers via email or through your social network and tagging @betterchicago on Instagram and LinkedIn and @chicagobetter on Facebook and Twitter. Your efforts will lift spirits and shine a light on outstanding educators who’ve made a difference. With the world changing more quickly than ever, there’s no better time to join us online for the latest on what’s happening in your community and beyond. If you haven’t done so already, please subscribe to our biweekly email newsletter—
the Better Letter at better.net/subscribe. Please also join us in celebrating the fantastic work of our Better and Make It Better Media Group staff and contributors. They, too, are the best of Chicagoland, working hard to serve this community they love. As always, we appreciate your feedback and welcome your ideas and suggestions. Your attention is valuable and ideas are important to us. Susan Noyes, Founder & Chief Visionary Officer Susan@Better.net; @SusanBNoyes Brooke Geiger McDonald, Editor in Chief Brooke@Better.net; @Brookeatbetter
• Jennifer enjoyed watching the Chicago Dogs play at Impact field on Jimmy Buffett night with her children.
Sharon and her husband celebrated their 26-year anniversary. • Madison worked with Vashon Jordan Jr., a Chicago-based freelance photographer, on a story about Chicago's protests. At an August demonstration, they met up and snapped this picture with the magazine. •
• Jennifer celebrated her Catalan heritage with her children at none other than Lettuce Entertain You's Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba!
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facebook.com/chicagobetter
Alyssa enjoyed the dog days of summer.
Madison worked with Vashon Jordan Jr., a Chicago-based freelance photographer, on a story about Chicago's protests. At an August demonstration, they met up and snapped this picture with the magazine!
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New in Town
BY MADISON MULLER
space features a large outdoor patio and vendors include Brekkie & Bake Shop, Crockett Cookies, Classic Cobbler and Doc’s Bar. 1811 W Harrison St, Chicago (Located within the Old Cook County Hospital Building) drmurphysfoodhall.com
FOR YOU R H E ALTH
Bright Bowls
Fall in Chicago is the time to soak up the last remaining days of warm sunshine and steel yourself for the cold months ahead. Now’s your chance to enjoy outdoor seating at one of Chicago’s newest restaurants or to start boosting your immunity at one of several new local wellness spots. From women- and minority-owned food vendors to CBD elixirs, here are some of Chicagoland’s newest businesses.
E AT & DRIN K Pizza Friendly Pizza This new pizza hangout in the Ukrainian Village opens to a Chicago dining scene that has been turned upside down by the coronavirus pandemic. A convenient
walk-up window and hidden back-alley patio space allow patrons to easily carry out or sit-down for a slice of the rectangular, Sicilian-style pizza with focaccia-like crust. The restaurant also offers sandwiches, salads and crispy fries with spicy ketchup—and even vegan options. 1039 N Western Ave, Chicago 773.395.2483 pizzafriendlypizza.com Azul Mariscos Chicago’s Goose Island neighborhood has a flavorful new addition to their restaurant scene. Located right on the water, Azul Mariscos presents fresh takes on classic mariscos (seafood). World-renowned Mexican artist, Senoke,
was commissioned to create a mural in the restaurant’s main lounge for a visually stunning dining experience. An innovative drink menu features creations like the Cantarito, a citrusy tequila-based drink served in jarritos (clay pots). The cocktail was created in tandem with Project FIRE, a traumarecovery program for youth injured by gun violence in Chicago. As part of the Firebird Arts Community, Project FIRE participants will make the jarritos and cazuelas (large clay pots) for this signature cocktail, with proceeds directly benefiting the organization. 1177 N Elston Ave, Chicago 773.770.3766 azulmariscos.com
Dr. Murphy’s Food Hall Chicagoans love their food halls, which often bring the best of Chicago’s dining scene together in one place. Women- and minorityowned businesses make up a majority of the impressive vendor list at Dr. Murphy’s. The 10,000-square-foot
Blended Health and Smoothie Bar New to Glenview, Blended serves smoothies and açai bowls to meet every dietary restriction and healthy craving. The menu features keto-friendly, gluten-free and dairyfree smoothies as well as coffee-infused creations for that morning pick-me-up. Just in time for fall, try the Apple Pie Oat Boat Smoothie, made with apples, apple spread, cinnamon, collagen, oats, apple
juice and almond milk. Owned and operated by Glenview native April (Williamson) Doremus and general manager Sam Dexter, a personal trainer and fitness nutrition specialist, Blended is a healthy community hangout for everyone. 950 Harlem Ave, Glenview 847.834.0266 blendedglenview.com Bright Bowls Another new smoothie addition to Chicago’s North Shore, Bright Bowls açai creations take edible art to a whole new level. All of their bowls are gluten and dairy free. Their creations range from the classic açai and pitaya bowls to creative bowls like the “Legally Bronze,” which has everything from bee pollen to banana jam-packed in its superfood mix. Lindsay Meltzer, who grew up in Highland Park, fell in love with the simplicity of healthy eating when she was living in California. When she moved back to Highland Park, she brought a little bit of Cali back with her and is now serving that sunshine to her happy customers at Bright Bowls. 777 Central Ave, Highland Park 847.504.9019 brightbowls.com
Dr. Murphy Food Hall
Get updates about the latest new business openings by subscribing to the Better Letter at better.net/subscribe. To be considered for future listings, email editorial@makeitbetter.com.
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Connect with Us
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EXPLORE • FOOD & DRINK • HOMES • HEALTH • ARTS & EVENTS • STYLE • TRAVEL • COMMUNITY • GUIDES
Top 5 Articles Online These are the stories that got our readers talking. North Shore Dining: Where to Eat and Drink in Evanston. Our Dining Editor Julie Chernoff gave us the rundown on the best places to eat a nd d r i n k i n Eva nston better.net/evanstondining Who Keeps Us Safe? Chicago Pr ote st s Reveal Conte nt ion s Around Safety. Our associate editor, Madison Muller, was on the scene downtown during an Aug. 15 protest. better.net/chicagoprotests
THE BARN EVANSTON
Nav y Pier Is Closing Through Spring 2021 — What It Means for Chicago Tourism Last month, C h i c a g o ’s i c o n i c N a v y P i e r announced that it is temporarily shutting its doors. With hopeful plans to reopen in Spring 2021. better.net/navypier How to Talk Politics With Your Partner Can a Biden supporter a nd a Tr ump suppor ter lea r n to respec t each ot her ’s opi nions and still be happy together? better.net/talkingpolitics
Our Better Half is Online
Our world is changing more quickly than ever and the best way to stay up to date on what’s happening and how it's impacting our community every day is to engage with us online at better.net and on social media. Here, some of the subjects and stories that have our readers talking.
Sign Up Do you receive our weekly Better Letter? It’s filled with ideas for weekend fun and then some. Sign up for our e-newsletters at better.net/subscribe and follow us online. facebook.com/chicagobetter better.net
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On the Market: 4 Hot Chicago and North Shore Properties With Stunning Outdoor Spaces “It’s an exciting time on the North Shore,” said realtor Kelly Rynes, who notes that demand is driving some home prices up. W hether you’re look ing for a suburba n property with room to roam or a city abode, these four Chicago and North Shore properties are worth a look. better.net/outdoorspaces B E T T E R FA L L 2 0 2 0 15
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CLASSIC + FRESH We are Chalet, the North Shore’s lifestyle destination for bringing beauty and an oasis to your life. Discover how Chalet can help you transform your home through our unparalleled landscape design and our one-of-a-kind, natureinspired collections.
www.c ha letnurser y.com 847 -595-0111
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Your Chicago T H E P E O P L E . T H E P L AC E S . T H E C AU S E S .
“Why go to Paris since Paris has come to Chicago?" ”
CLAUDE MONET. ARRIVAL OF THE NORMANDY TRAIN, GARE SAINT-LAZARE, 1877. THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO, MR. AND MRS. MARTIN A. RYERSON COLLECTION.
- CHICAGO DAILY TRIBUNE, 1888
Monet Has Arrived
Just when we needed it most, escapism comes to town via the largest collection outside of Paris of the famed Impressionist’s works—on display now at the Art Institute of Chicago. BY MACAIRE DOUGLAS B E T T E R FA L L 2 0 2 0 1 7
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Your Chicago / CURRENTS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 19
Complete your Monet experience with a beautifully handcrafted cocktail at Travelle at The Langham, a Best Of 2020 winner. The menu of inspired cocktails by mixologist Slava Brisov reimagines Monet’s famous works, which include Arrival of the Normandy Train ($21), Clavados with aromatic smoke, Water Lily Pond ($17), a light summer spritz, and Stacks of Wheat ($16), a combination of wheated bourbons. Reservations are available, and you can grab Stacks of Wheat, which comes in a special wax sealed bottle with a crystal ice cube on the side, to-go. Through January 18th. 330 N. Wabash Ave., travellechicago.com
Just Vote BY MADISON MULLER
With the pandemic far from over and our nation’s response to it destined to be guided by the results of November’s presidential election, casting your ballot this year is more important than ever. Here’s what you need to know to make sure your in-person or mail-in vote counts.
To Vote in Person Do it early! With all of the talk of mail-in voting this year, some people are confused as to whether inperson voting is even an option. If you feel comfortable voting in person, you are free to do so. But, to avoid long lines and crowds on election day, vote early. Early voting begins in Illinois 40 days before the election. Learn more about where and when you can vote early at elections .il.gov.
To Vote by Mail To check your voter registration status, register to vote, and to request an absentee ballot by mail, visit vote.org/state/ illinois. If you do choose to vote by mail, give yourself ample postage time. The USPS recommends at least 15 days to ensure your ballot is counted by Nov. 3.
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TODD ROSENBERG
THE ART OF THE COCKTAIL
TOP: CLAUDE MONET. STACKS OF WHEAT (END OF SUMMER), 1890/91. THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO, GIFT OF ARTHUR M. WOOD, SR. IN MEMORY OF PAULINE PALMER WOOD; LEFT: ARRIVAL OF THE NORMANDY TRAIN COCKTAIL, TRAVELLE AT THE LANGHAM
This month, Better’s 2020 Best Museum winner, the Art Institute of Chicago, welcomes a new exhibition: Monet and Chicago, which will showcase the Art Institute's exemplary holdings alongside Chicago-based collections. No stranger to Chicago, Claude Monet not only sold numerous paintings in the 1880s to Chicago’s elite collectors, sparking a buying frenzy, but in 1903, the Art Institute became the first American museum to buy a painting by the French artist. Running through January 18, Monet and Chicago is the first exhibition to explore Chicago’s pioneering connection to the artist. Guests can view more than 70 paintings in the exhibition, which include rarely seen still lifes, figural scenes, seascapes, and landscapes, spanning from Monet’s early career sketching caricatures to his last canvases, inspired by his garden and water lily pond. In accordance with Covid-19 safety measures, tickets are required. 111 S. Michigan Ave., arctic.edu
The Show Must Go On Tony and Grammy Award winner Heather Headley has been no stranger to the stage—until now. BY BROOKE GEIGER MCDONALD
What did it feel like to perform in such an iconic setting—your first time on stage at Lyric Opera of Chicago, and first time on any stage since the start of the pandemic? We've all been performing from our bathrooms and our living rooms and our basements and everywhere else we can, but this was the first time I was on stage. Seeing the empty seats— this empty, gorgeous theater—was sad. But then I started singing and it was so healing and cathartic. My great hope—my prayer—is that we all get back to performances—live performances within these beautiful theaters. How have you and your family been coping during the pandemic? My family has coped better than I thought we would. Our children have been so amazing. I've fallen in love with my family even more, loved my kids even more, my husband even more.
TODD ROSENBERG
TOP: CLAUDE MONET. STACKS OF WHEAT (END OF SUMMER), 1890/91. THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO, GIFT OF ARTHUR M. WOOD, SR. IN MEMORY OF PAULINE PALMER WOOD; LEFT: ARRIVAL OF THE NORMANDY TRAIN COCKTAIL, TRAVELLE AT THE LANGHAM
Like so many fellow artists, Heather Headley hasn’t been able to share her talents with a live audience since the pandemic began. That changed this month when the Northwestern University graduate, who played Nala in the original Broadway cast of The Lion King and the title role in Aida, for which she won the Tony for Best Actress in a Musical, took the stage to perform as part of Lyric Opera of Chicago’s For the Love of Lyric virtual concert, which was held on Sept. 13. Here, Headley talks family life during the pandemic, starring alongside a powerhouse cast of Broadway stars in Sweet Magnolias on Netflix, and returning to the stage.
Even in the ugliness of being in the quarantine and not loving it, we've grown so much and enjoyed each other. I've watched my children grow up in front of me. I’ve had conversations with them and learned more about me and more about them. I can't believe I might say
this... Goodness, I'm grateful for this part of the pandemic. I want it to be over, but we've fared well. And I say that in all humility and gratefulness and thanks to God. How hard has the suspension of live theater been your fellow artists and the greater artistic community? There are performers who've been hit really hard—and not just the performers—the ushers and musicians, lighting guys and our crews and directors—everybody. The people who work the concessions, the people who take the tickets—there are just all these people who depend on the theater, not only for their creative outlets, but for their bread and butter. What can supporters of the arts do to help? We may lose some theaters, we may lose some shows, but I do pray that if you can donate to the arts, if you can donate in some way, great. And, when the theater does open, I pray that people will rush in and be there so that these shows can come back and people can perform. What was it like to join such a powerhouse cast of Broadway stars in Sweet Magnolias,
which has been picked up for a second season on Netflix? It was really amazing to be a part of the cast. I have just had a quick friendship now with JoAnna [Garcia Swisher] and with Brooke [Elliott] and with our writers and directors. We had a great cast of people, from people who have been on Broadway to people who have done film and theater—Dion Johnstone and Justin [Bruening] and Chris [Klein], Jamie Lynn [Spears]. It was just a great group to be a part of. And we all just kind of created a little family. We're all looking forward to getting back to work on season two, when that starts. As soon as we're told that everything's healthy and safe enough, we will be ready to go. So excited about that. What advice do you have for young artists? Hone your craft. Now’s the time to practice more and to perfect our crafts even more, to be ready when our world opens back up again. This interview has been edited for length. Read the full interview and learn more about Lyric’s For the Love of Lyric virtual concert at better.net/heatherheadley. B E T T E R FA L L 2 0 2 0 1 9
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Your Chicago / CURRENTS
Uptown Rising When the Uptown Theatre opened in August of 1925, the public was finally getting back to normal after enduring the 1918 flu pandemic, which caused 675,000 American deaths over three long years. To woo the weary, owners the Balaban and Katz Theater Corporation touted the theater’s cutting-edge air filtration system and air-conditioning, which offered a safe, cool respite from the scorching summer heat for only a nickel. But the real draw was the grand Spanish Revival architecture by Cornelius Ward Rapp and George Leslie Rapp. Described as “an acre of seats in a magic city,” the Uptown Theatre had
declined over the years, the owners turned to other sources of revenue, renting the space out for corporate meetings and later selling furnishings and fixtures. Then, in 1975, Jam Productions began exclusively producing concerts there, booking acts such as Bob Marley, Frank Zappa, Genesis, Prince and the Grateful Dead. Serving as a venue for chart-topping rock stars would have been a fine fate, but fate had other ideas. In dire need of maintenance, the theatre shut its doors in 1981. But, the Uptown Theatre has never been forgotten: It was added to the National Register of
three spectacular lobbies with soaring ceilings, ornate high-relief plaster castings and 4,300 seats across 46,000 square feet. To describe it as a success would be an understatement: Within five years, more than 20 million people had experienced its grandeur. But perhaps a star as bright as the Uptown Theatre is destined to burn itself out. As receipts
Historic Places in 1986 and named a City of Chicago Landmark in 1991. It’s also served as the backdrop for movies like the 1991 thriller Backdraft, Transformers 4 and most recently, a 2017 video by singer, songwriter and pianist, Regina Spektor, who performed in the grand lobby. According to Linda Winke, a docent at the
Chicago Architecture Center who has led many tours through the neighborhood’s historic architectural sites, the Uptown Theatre has a powerful effect on people. “There’s a lot of love for the building” she says, noting that people often tell stories of their grandparents going there to see movies back in its heyday. “The longer it goes without being restored, the more we worry about it.” Fortunately, in 2018, Mayor Rahm Emanuel, along with 46th ward Alderman, James Cappleman, Jam Productions and Farpoint Development, announced that the theater would finally be restored and reopened. Jam Productions co-founder and current Uptown Theatre owner, Jerry Mickelson, estimates that he needs another $35 to $40 million for the massive restoration project, which will include new seats, concession areas, elevators and mechanicals as well as the restoration of the front façade. He was well on track to reach his goal when, in an odd case of history rhyming, the Covid-19 pandemic struck. Despite the setback, Mickelson remains bullish about its future, confident the Uptown Theatre will once again be the capstone to the burgeoning entertainment district, which is home to venues such as the Riviera Theatre, the Aragon Ballroom and the Green Mill, one of Al Capone’s favorite haunts. “It’s important that other future generations get to experience this masterpiece and marvel in its splendor and magnificence,” Mickelson says. “In the near future there will be a vaccine to treat COVID-19, and when that happens, it’ll be the roaring 20s all over again.”
BETTER ART: Read the full, fascinating story of the Uptown Theatre at better.net/uptown.
LEFT: THE GRAND LOBBY. PHOTO COURTESY OF ERIC HOLUBOW; RIGHT: PHOTO COURTESY OF STEVE MINOR.
Plans for the multi-million-dollar restoration of the Uptown Theatre were progressing steadily. Then the Covid-19 pandemic struck. What’s next for the grand old movie palace? BY TATE GUNNERSON
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The Healing Power of Nature: Openlands Lakeshore Preserve BY MADISON MULLER, PHOTO BY MADISON MULLER
After months indoors, the pandemic has made many of us profoundly more appreciative of outdoor spaces. As we continue to learn about the ways in which Covid-19 transmitted, one fact has remained true: fresh air is good. We’re lucky that in Chicago and the surrounding suburbs, we have plenty of accessible and spacious outdoor spaces to safely enjoy. Founded in 1963, Openlands is one of the oldest metropolitan conservation organizations in the country. Their mission is to protect the natural and open spaces of northeastern Illinois and the surrounding region to ensure cleaner air and water, protect natural habitats and wildlife, and help balance and enrich lives. On the Openlands website, they provide an interactive map with the different Openlands conservation sites in Illinois – there are hundreds! For our readers on the North Shore and in the city, one of our favorites is the Openlands Lakeshore Preserve. Located in Fort Sheridan, on the cusp of Highland Park and Highwood, it is one of the last remaining ravine and bluff ecosystems in the metropolitan area. The long, winding trail that cuts through the preserve is the perfect respite for bikers and naturists, alike. Visitors can enjoy wildlife, botany and a mesmerizing lake view all in one place, giving the illusion of travel far beyond the bustle of the city. According to their website’s
most recent coronavirus update, the preserve is remaining open from 6:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. With this greater appreciation for the outdoors and the haven it has provided us during these troubling times, it is important to prioritize their conservation. Openlands works vigilantly to combat climate change in the Chicago-area and to reduce our carbon
footprint. They also have opportunities for volunteers to get involved in their efforts, such as tree planting programs, school and community gardens and conservation easements. These continued conservation efforts are also supported through donations, which can be made on their website. To learn more, visit openlands.org.
Sallie Krawcheck’s Mission to Get Women More Money Sallie Krawcheck is one of the preeminent women of finance, having run Merrill Lynch Wealth Management and US Trust, Citi Wealth Management and research firm Sanford C. Bernstein and Co. She’s also a straight talker with a pas-
sion for empowering women through investing. To achieve that, she co-founded Ellevest, a digital investment platform for women that offers not just financial services but also career coaching and financial planning. Recently Krawcheck, who serves as Ellevest CEO, shared her vision at Invest for Kids’ annual Women’s Event, this year held online. Invest for Kids harnesses the power of the invest-
BY CARRIE KIRBY
ment industry to benefit underprivileged children in Chicago. In conversation with Jenny Fortner, Director of Impact and Engagement at Goldman Sachs Philanthropy Fund, Krawcheck explained how investing for women intersects with sustainable investing, because, as she likes to say, “Only good things happen when women have more money.” Read the full interview online at better.net/money. B E T T E R FA L L 2 0 2 0 2 1
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Home Base The end of summer — and the beginning of a new school year — is usually our siren call to return to our routines and busy extra-curricular schedules. But this year, back to school means back at home for another season (or three) of work and school from home. Breathe some new life into the monotony with these pieces from local stores. BY MACAIRE DOUGLAS
Payton Rose Suburban Riot Homebody Sweatshirt $68, paytonrose.com We’re all bound to be homebodies, whether we like it or not this year, so your comfy sweatshirt do the talking. We promise this will be a hit on Zoom.
Jayson Home Brass Pencil Holder $75, jaysonhome.com A beautiful and chic piece for the desktop or kids table, this polished brass angular pencil holder comes ready to use with 24 sharpened colored pencils.
The Book Bin Heritage Baking: Recipes for Rustic Breads and Pastries Baked with Artisanal Flour from Hewn Bakery $29.95, bookbinnorthbrook.com As the summer heat and humidity evaporate, we’ll jump back into our pandemic baking. For inspiration, pick up this book by Hewn Bakery, voted 2020 Best Bakery, Suburbs, by Better readers.
Foursided Very Big Hug Blanket $108, foursided.com Because sometimes all we need is a big, warm hug. This 100% cotton blanket, made in the USA, is perfect to cozy up with while enjoying a good book.
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Chalet Nursery Rosy Rings Hand Sanitizer Spray $14.99, chaletnursery.com Arguably one of the best accessories of 2020, this hand sanitizer comes in a pretty glass bottle finished with a hand-tied piece of ribbon and delicate charm. It’s powerful too, containing 80% alcohol.
Warby Parker Butler Eyeglasses in Teal Tortoise $95, warbyparker.com All of that e-learning and working from home on devices puts a strain on your eyes, affecting your sleep and causing headaches. Warby Parker eyeglasses are not only fashionable, but the lenses help filter blue light.
Cowboys and Astronauts Areaware Multicolor Balancing Blocks $48, cowboysandastronauts.com Perfect for the kids, or the young at heart, these aesthetically pleasing balancing blocks are ideal for a tech break and moment of relaxing play. They’re sustainable too, made from rescued scraps of oak and non-toxic, water-based paint.
Hazel Chicago Canine Rescue Charity Candle $24, hazelchicago.com If anything screams fall, it’s a cozy candle. This one, scented with musty herbaceous and floral notes, provides some extra warm and fuzzies. Plus, all proceeds go to the Chicago Canine Rescue.
SHOP BETTER: Supporting local retailers is a great way to lift up your community. For more of our favorite spots to shop local, visit better.net/chicago/style.
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Your Chicago/ FYI
Back to School 2020 Here’s a look at how education is evolving for Chicago-area students, parent and teachers. Buckling up for an unconventional school year.
I
BY JACKIE PILOSSOPH
t’s impossible to predict what the state of play at local schools will be by the time this magazine hits your mailbox, but chances are most students will be faced with some amount of e-learning this year. After what a few described as the unmitigated disaster that was remote learning last spring, everyone’s hoping things go a bit more smoothly the second time around. Shira Schwartz, a North Shore-based educational advocate, says teachers are now more aware of e-learning challenges, and are better prepared to navigate instruction through a screen. “Last March, everything was so last-minute,” says Schwartz, a Highland Park mom of three who spent 25 years teaching elementary school at private schools in Chicago and on the North Shore. “One school district principal told me she gave her teachers 15 minutes on a Friday to gather their things and she let them know they weren’t coming back, so they had such a short time to think about what they needed. There was so much uncertainty and a struggle to implement that kind of learning that teachers weren’t used to.” These challenged placed a lot of pressure on parents, who had to step in and help their kids acclimate, in many cases while also juggling full-time jobs. Schwartz says teachers have learned the importance of providing clearer expectations so that students are left with fewer questions about assignments: Students need to know what the assignment is, how to do it and why they are doing it. “If you’re home, you typically go to your parents. Students need to
understand that they can ask their teacher when they are in school, even if it’s virtually.” Some of the most significant e-learning challenges students face include: •managing time; •initiating and completing assignments; •understanding directions; •paying attention and focusing; •feeling uncomfortable talking in a virtual setting; and •refusing to connect virtually, to show up, or to do any work.
Sound familiar? If so, here are Schwartz’s four e-learning tips for parents: 1 Communicate with teachers. Partner with your kids’ teachers to talk about ways to help them better succeed and stay motivated and happy. Examples might include setting a timer, previewing material and breaking down assignments. 2 Teach kids how to take a break and re-engage effectively. Whether they need to do breathing exercises, take a yoga class, play a game, read a book, or call a friend, taking breaks is important to help kids rest and reset their brains. 3 Create a schedule that works. Break down what needs to get done for the
JACQUELINE WARNER
Making It Work—Remotely
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School in the Time of Covid Of the many challenges Covid-19 has raised, education has been one of the most contentious.
D
BY MADISON MULLER
week and then by day and maybe even by hour. A schedule helps make things seem more manageable. 4 Communicate with kids, especially if they are refusing to participate. Talk to your child to figure out what is causing the refusal. Uncovering the reason first will help parents and teachers identify the best way to get them back on board. Schwartz says e-learning can have some benefits, like teaching students to become independent learners. “This can be a year of really positive
growth and learning skills for many kids,” she says. “Once a student learns to be a learner, the content comes much easier and more quickly. As you move onto post-secondary education or employment, you are able to navigate difficult issues that come your way because you have the skills to persevere, and to use your resources to be independent.” BETTER EDUCATION: For expert tips from top educators, profiles of local schools, and a celebration of some of the best teachers in town, visit better.net/ chicago/education .
espite educators and school boards working tirelessly this summer, the virus’s unpredictability has made efforts to begin the school year with a definitive plan impossible. At the time of publication, most schools on the North Shore and in Chicago were beginning the year remotely. Classes aren’t the only thing affected by Covid-19, as high school sports have also had to adjust their schedules. The IHSA categorized sports based on their risk level and built a 2020-2021 schedule, with higher-risk sports being postponed to the spring season. It has been a difficult few months, with families and educators falling on both sides of the debate about what is best for students. Paul Sally, the superintendent at New Trier High School in Winnetka, explained, “New Trier’s comprehensive reopening plan is based on a continuum, with contingency plans for the different scenarios we may face in this pandemic.” The plan that New Trier adopted for the 2020-2021 school year is based on a six-step ladder that begins with virtual instruction and works its way to inperson learning. Movement between steps is based on an advisory board, which makes decisions by monitoring district and regional
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New Trier will remain at step one of their reopening plan for the first eight weeks of school. Students’ will meet on a blocked schedule, meaning classes meet on specific days, appropriately named, Blue, Green and Trevian Days (the school’s colors and mascot). “It’s really different and will take some time getting used to,” says London McBride, a sophomore at New Trier. “It’s actually less stressful than in-person classes, but also a lot more boring.” Trier adopted for the 2020-2021 school year is based on a six-step ladder that begins with virtual instruction and works its way to in-person learning. Movement between steps is based on an advisory board, which makes decisions by monitoring district and regional positive infection rates, PPE accessibility, and student and staff feedback.”
Curriculum Shifts
Local schools take a hard look at their lesson plans in response to the Black Lives Matter movement, but, some say it’s not enough.
R
esponding to Covid-19 was not the only challenge schools faced this summer. In the wake of George Floyd’s death on May 25, many students, families and administrators across the country called for school policy to better support racial equity, and for school curriculum to be reflective of Black history and literary contributions. At New Trier, the Board of Education adopted a strategic planning document in 2019 called “New Trier 2030,” meant to chart the course of the school’s future over the next decade and beyond. One of the pillars of this initiative is “culture, climate and equity,” and is meant to make New Trier a more inclusive and equitable learning environment. But, in response to George Floyd’s death, the board engaged with current students and alumni to better understand what changes they wanted to see at New Trier. “We’ve had a lot of alumni reach out,” Superintendent Paul Sally says, “which is great.” “I really appreciate advocacy and students using their voice. That’s part of what school is about, learning to become a responsible citizen.” He also said that they’ve had a lot current and past students actively engage in their summer equity work. All of New Trier’s statements and current equity work can be found on their website. One group, Healing Everyday Racism in Schools (HEROS), has been working vigilantly since 2017 to hold North Shore schools accountable to their statements around equity and inclusion. They also host community events and engage in educational dialogue around racial equity on the North Shore. In June, they hosted New Trier Walks for Justice, which drew huge support from the community. In 2018, the group put together a list of eight recommendations as a framework for positive change at New Trier, which can be found on their website, heroes. community. Van Gilmer and Alan Hatchett, two of the group’s founding members, say that while New Trier is welcoming and supportive of their voices and suggestions, they are slow to change. “For there to be Black teachers and families with different backgrounds at New Trier, a whole lot more has to change,” Gilmer explains. “And, the school is responsible for part of that, but the community has some work to do, as well.” MM
NEW TRIER
positive infection rates, PPE accessibility, and student and staff feedback.
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Trends
Homeschool Hits the Big Time
What to know about this increasingly popular approach to education.
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BY SHANNAN YOUNGER
arents around America turned their kitchen tables (and other parts of their homes) into classrooms this past spring as schools closed due to COVID-19. As a new academic year begins and the pandemic continues, many families are officially opting out of their public or private schools and making the switch to homeschooling. Homeschooling had been growing in popularity before COVID-19, but it’s becoming increasingly mainstream. While some parents are choosing to shift education to the home for safety reasons, J. Allen Weston, Executive Director of the National Home School Association, says once parents got a taste of what education at home could be like, they found taking care of the whole process was a better fit. “Parents [are] coming to a realization that they had been looking at homeschooling from a very jaded perspective and now that they understand what it is really like they can’t imagine sending their children back,” says Weston. He is among the experts predicting that homeschooling will stay popular long after the pandemic has passed.
History of Homeschooling
Homeschooling is not a new concept, of course, going back in American history to colonial times through the midnineteenth century, when community schools were not yet constructed or accessible. The first public high school was built in Massachusetts in 1820. Massachusetts was also the first state to enact a compulsory education law in 1852. Due in large part to efforts by Progressives, public schools were seen as increasingly important around the country and every state had compulsory education laws by 1930. Whether the pandemic results in an increase in the numbers remains to be seen, but Weston anticipates an uptick. He believes that those who adopt the homeschooling lifestyle will stick with it even after the threat of the virus recedes.
PODS Forming homeschooling pods of like-minded families and students is a very popular trend in home-based education. Weston notes that it allows flexibility for working parents and single parents who may not be available for the full amount of time necessary. Julie Vassilatos formed a pod with two other families when homeschooling her daughter and found it to be a great way not only to share the work but also to capitalize on the strengths that each educator brought to the home classroom. “It’s a gift to be able to lean on friends and neighbors. It’s also beneficial for homeschool students to have content delivery from several different teachers,” says Vassilatos. She says upfront conversations are essential to the success of the pod, noting, “We agreed in advance that we would have expectations, what they would be and that grades would be based on them.” MICROSCHOOLS Some par-
ents, like Darcy Alkus-Barrow, are taking that further by opting to homeschool and hiring a teacher in a trend sometimes referred to as microschooling. “We’re focused on bringing in the teacher to do more of the heavy lifting,” Alkus-Barrow says. She explains that while the curriculum would be “largely decided by the private educator,” it is also possible to “switch off days where a family will teach something to the whole pod.” Alkus-Barrow said some of the reason for embracing a microschool with an outside teacher was her research of child psychology. “It is really important developmentally for little kids to have a positive example outside of their parental figures,” she says, noting that role is “usually filled by a teacher.” The social-emotional benefits of being around even a small group of other students was also a significant factor in the family’s decision. B E T T E R FA L L 2 0 2 0 27
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Introducing Your W E A S K E D, YO U VOT E D
BESTof
2020 1 0 T H
A N N I V E R S A R Y
This year marks 10 years of celebrating local, and we couldn’t have imagined just how meaningful it would be to champion small businesses during this milestone year. The pandemic has made it exceedingly difficult for many businesses to stay afloat, making it more important than ever for us to support small business owners and their employees. From pivoting to curbside and online shopping, to offering creative takeout and virtual events, these local businesses have responded and adapted to make it work. Now is the time to lift up the businesses that have done so much for us this year. Here are your Best of 2020 winners. Let’s show our love for the places that make us proud to call Chicago and the North Shore home. 2 8 FA L L 2 0 2 0 B E T T E R
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RE ADE RS’ PICKS ✶
BEST ART GALLERY (City):
Catherine Edelman Gallery
A contemporary photography gallery that is hosting Keliy AndersonStaley’s What Is Home? exhibit through October.
(Suburbs):
Anne Loucks Gallery, Glencoe This multi-year winner highlights contemporary American paintings, sculptures and works on paper.
BEST COMEDY VENUE (City):
The Second City The infamous comedy club, theater and school is helping us laugh virtually from the safety of our homes.
Zanie’s, Rosemont A home for up-andcoming stand-up comedians, the venue is open for live shows at reduced capacity.
2019 WINNER
REWIND
LEFT: MADISON MUELLER; THE WRITERS THEATRE
(Suburbs):
Writers Theatre
BEST MUSEUM (City):
The Art Institute of Chicago One of the world’s best art museums is right here in our own backyard, and it has reopened with safety measures in place, including a reservation system.
Hotel Julian Chicago Dealing with the everchanging world and health standards has been both the high and low point of this experience. Making sure our employees and guests feel safe and comfortable is priority number one.
(Suburbs):
Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center, Skokie Remember the Past, Transform the Future. That’s the mission of this museum, and the work it’s doing is as important as ever. With online reservations, you can catch their Notorious RBG exhibit through January.
BEST CHILDREN’S MUSEUM (City):
Chicago Children’s Museum
This repeat winner, and much beloved museum at Navy Pier, is temporarily closed due to Covid-19. Connect with them on Instagram for fun at-home activities to do with the kids!
(Suburbs):
Kohl Children’s Museum of Greater Chicago, Glenview With an amazing selection of interactive exhibits and programs, the museum is offering guided play for small groups in their outdoor Habitat Park and V.I.P. (very important play) private rental options inside.
Auditorium Theatre We quickly began producing online content featuring some of our favorite Auditorium Theatre performers, and our summer camp, Hearts to Art, has gone fully online for summer 2020. It's been a big adjustment, and we've had to cancel or reschedule a lot of productions, but we've been working hard to stay engaged with our supporters and audiences! We've also been doing a lot of work around the theater itself to ensure that it is clean, safe, and refreshed when we are able to open our doors again.
BEST CHILDREN’S THEATER (City):
Chicago Children’s Theatre
Inspiring children to lead lives of adventure, courage and curiosity, the theatre is offering a drive-in Beatrix Potter puppet show this October.
Arlen Music Productions We have done a great job with the human side. The business is definitely suffering because of zero revenue since March 9. We perform for special events that are usually more than 50 people.
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RE ADE RS’ PICKS ✶ (Suburbs):
through the English garden, and more.
The Wall Street Journal has called Writers the top regional theater in the country, and if you haven’t seen their gorgeous, state-of-the-art facility yet, you’ll want to visit when they reopen for performances in 2021. You can also help the theater give back to the community by dropping off supplies at their Donation Supply Drive.
BEST STAYCATION
Writers Theatre, Glencoe
BEST HOTEL (City):
Hotel Julian
BEST CHILDREN’S THEATER (Suburbs):
Children’s Theatre of Winnetka This volunteer organization gives kids in grades 4-8 the chance to star both on stage and behind the scenes, and is offering socially distanced workshops this fall.
BEST LIVE MUSIC VENUE (City):
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
With performances canceled through December 23, you can connect with amazing musicians from home via online concerts and backstage interviews.
(Suburbs): Tie
Ravinia Festival, Highland Park Ravinia is the country’s
oldest outdoor music festival, and a must-visit every summer. With this season canceled, you can tune into Ravinia TV, a weekly variety show airing every Friday at 7p.m.
SPACE, Evanston
Ken Arlen Evolution Orchestra and Indigo.
BEST LIVE THEATER (City):
Steppenwolf Theatre Company With all performances canceled this year, the 2021 season is planned
A small venue for live music, all shows at SPACE have been canceled through September. They are offering live music in their distanced Summer Stage, and even to-go concerts, on the North Shore.
BEST BAND (City & Suburbs):
Arlen Music Productions
A perennial winner, this entertainment company knows how to get your guests moving with dance bands like
Destination Door County
to offer shows such as Good Night, and Good Luck and I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter. During the shutdown, consider donating to help their staff, or become a member.
A repeat winner, this Four Diamond hotel just steps from Millennium Park offers modern design and luxurious amenities.
(Suburbs):
Deer Path Inn, Lake Forest
Center your staycation in the heart of downtown at one of Chicago’s top luxury hotels. With amazing dining, a wellness spa, pool, modern health club, and breathtaking views, you don’t need to travel far to get away.
BEST MIDWEST FAMILY DESTINATION:
Door County, Wisconsin
Jump in the car and spend some time in the upper Peninsula of Wisconsin. A beautiful fall destination, Door County is known for its shoreline, parks, fish boils and charming B&Bs.
Escape to this inn, where you can cozy up next to stone fireplaces, enjoy afternoon tea, stroll
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ANDREAS HOGUE SALON
Anne Loucks Gallery
The Langham, Chicago
ANNE LOUCKS GALLERY; DESTINATION DOOR COUNTY
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Beauty ✶ 2 02 0
RE ADE RS’ PICKS ✶
BEST COSMETIC DERMATOLOGIST (City):
Dr. Jordan Carqueville
Dr. Jordan Carqueville is a board-certified dermatologist specializing in cosmetic, medial, and surgical dermatology. She sees patients in Chicago.
(Suburbs):
Advanced Dermatology, Lincolnshire and Glencoe With two locations on the North Shore, Advanced Dermatology offers the latest in cosmetic and dermatological skincare treatments and procedures.
BEST FACIAL (City):
A research-inspired skin destination, this boutique will give you beautiful skin, using some of the most exclusive treatments on the market.
One Magnificent MedSpa, Winnetka Where mindfulness and medical esthetics are intermingled, this North Shore medspa helps you improve the health of your skin, allowing you to age gracefully.
BEST MASSAGE and BEST SPA (Suburbs):
Egea Spa, Evanston
A repeat “Best Beauty” winner year after year, Egea Spa offers customizable services featuring Egea’s own line of natural products.
BEST MASSAGE (City)
Chuan Spa at The Langham, Chicago Visit the Chuan Spa at The Langham, Chicago for a one-of-a-kind spa experience. Meaning “flowing water” in Chinese, Chuan Spa invites guests to take part in its special bathing ritual prior to treatments. Andreas Hogue Salon
2019 WINNER
REWIND
ANDREAS HOGUE SALON
Leah Chavie Skincare Boutique
(Suburbs):
Andreas Hogue Salon We have felt an abundance of love and gratitude from our staff and clientele since reopening. Everyone really seems to appreciate that we were always available for them—whether it was to deliver needed products or to give hair advice over the phone. The community—and even other salon owners—have praised us for putting in place a really safe, smart system for working.
Egea Spa We closed to help flatten the curve, and reopened June 15. We were overwhelmed by the response we had on Mother's Day to our curbside "Home Facial kit" Giveaway. More than 60 clients stopped by!
Leesi B Cosmetics This time has reinforced how important each and every client is to me, and only energized me to another level of continued personal service, helping each client feel better with makeup and the connection of inner and outer beauty.
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Egea Wellness Spa During Covid: At Egea, we have expanded our Medi-SpaTeam to better serve you with an additional medical director: Adam J. Cohen, MD. Now Offering: Microblading, threads, Pure by Endy Med, and more. Complimentary consultations.
Bleach Hair Salon
The Spa at The Peninsula Hotel The luxury spa offers stunning views of the city with complimentary amenities for guests, including a sun terrace, fitness center, and indoor half-Olympic length swimming pool.
body contouring, and microblading.
BEST MED SPA (City):
The Med Spa at Northwestern Specialists in Plastic Surgery Services here include facials, chemical peels, laser treatments,
(Suburbs):
Trio Med Spa, Northfield
BEST NAIL SALON
A repeat “Best Beauty” winner, Trio Med Spa offers the latest anti-aging technologies with its menu of superb aesthetic procedures.
(City):
BEST HAIRCUT/ SALON SERVICES (City):
(Suburbs):
Bleach Hair Salon Intentionally designed with the customer in mind, this full-service salon believes style should be effortless.
(Suburbs):
Andreas Hogue Salon, Northbrook and Vernon Hills
Dr. Jordan Carqueville
more, and carries the best haircare products on the market.
Andreas Hogue Salon offers a variety of services: haircuts, hair coloring, extensions, and
312 Nail Salon Whether you want a mani or a pedi, you can kick back and relax in this spa-like salon.
Rock Star Nails & Spa, Glenview Dip, no-chip, classic and even aromatherapy— this Glenview spot has it all.
From our Medi-Spa estheticians: Dreaming about a facial in this Covid environment? We are excited to service our clients under our “Exclusive Medical Grade Shield.” Enjoy a safe and relaxing 30-minute HydraFacial totally protected. Deep cleaning, extractions, customized peel, antioxidant serum and finishing creams—all with safety protocols under our medical grade shield. Relax, feel safe, and focus on your face!
From our massage therapists: Don’t worry about ventilation—our upgraded HVAC system with UV air filters goes beyond standard air safety protocols, reducing the possibilities of air particle and pathogen transmission. So, melt away tension, anxiety, and body aches with a 60- or a 90-minute massage in a safe and secure environment. Along with our upgraded PPE, every client still begins their service with a “Spa Experience”...a sanitizing hot towel hand treatment greets you at the door. We can’t wait to see you!
TOP LEFT: BLEACH HAIR SALON, BOTTOM LEFT: DR. JORDAN CARQUEVILLE
BEST SPA (City):
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Dining
✶ 2020
REA D ERS’ PI CKS ✶
Bar Roma
BEST AL FRESCO DINING (City):
Le Sud
BAR ROMA
This Roscoe Village spot will transport you to the South of France, especially when you’re dining outdoors in their flower-and-herb–strewn rooftop patio and sidewalk cafe.
BEST AL FRESCO DINING & BEST ITALIAN (suburbs):
Convito Café & Market, Wilmette It’s official: Our readers love dining outside in Plaza del Lago, drinking glasses of chilled rosé to wash down the perfect Pappardelle Bolognese.
BEST BAKERY (City):
Sweet Mandy B’s There is nothing better than a sweet treat from Sweet Mandy B’s, from
their old-fashioned pies to beautifully decorated cakes and cookies.
(Suburbs):
Hewn, Evanston Hand-forged artisan loaves, made with locally sourced heritage grains, mingle with scones, muffins, croissants, and other delectable treats.
BEST BAR (City):
BEST BAR & GRILL (Suburbs):
This Roscoe Village classic has been the spot to grab a craft beer for over 27 years, and their beer garden is the perfect place for a distanced night out.
Nick’s exemplifies what’s best about a great neighborhood bar: terrific cocktails and a real sense of community.
Village Tap
Nick’s Neighborhood Bar & Grill, Wilmette
BEST BARBECUE (City):
Smoque BBQ
Avondale; you’ll find smoky, luscious, Texasstyle beef brisket and pulled pork.
(Suburbs):
Hecky’s, Evanston This long-standing and beloved spot for classic BBQ on the North Shore is continuing the amazing legacy of its founder Hecky Powell, after his passing this year.
Hit up the original in
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BEST BREAKFAST/ BRUNCH (City):
Travelle at The Langham
Toast the weekend with Travelle’s seasonal American cuisine, which includes bruschetta eggs, skillet cinnamon rolls and avocado and heirloom tomato toast. The view is hard to beat, too.
(Suburbs):
Walker Brothers Original Pancake House, Glenview, Highland Park & Wilmette Better readers just can’t get enough of Dutch Babies and Apple Cinnamon Pancakes, so it’s a good thing there are multiple locations.
BEST BREWERY (City): Tie
Goose Island
What began as a single brewpub in 1988 has become one of the biggest names in beer out of the Midwest.
Revolution Brewing Located in Logan Square, Revolution Brewing is Illinois’ largest independent craft brewery.
(Suburbs):
Temperance Beer Co., Evanston A repeat winner, their reopened Beer Garden is the best spot on the North Shore for a truly unique craft beer.
BEST BURGER (City):
Au Cheval
The hype is real, and this West Loop restaurant is known to sell up to 500 burgers in a weekend. Bon Appetit even declared it the best in America.
(Suburbs):
Grill House, Northbrook The grill house burger is a fan favorite, with melty Merkts cheddar cheese, Nueske bacon, grilled onions, BBQ sauce and a pickle. Perfection!
BEST CHINESE (City):
Ming Hin
With various locations throughout the city, including Chinatown, you don’t have to travel far for Dim Sum, shrimp dumplings and more.
(Suburbs):
Koi, Evanston A winner year after year, Koi has all the authentic Chinese specialties you crave, from spring rolls to roast duck.
BEST COFFEE SHOP (City):
PiniPico
This Brazilian coffee shop has made a big splash in Old Town, with their full coffee bar and classic empanadas.
(Suburbs):
Glenview Grind Pull up to the drive-thru window if you’re in a hurry or grab to go from this local independent coffee shop
BEST FARMERS MARKET (City):
foods, amazing wine and cheese selection, and jaw-dropping organic produce department.
Access and education are the focus of this seminal farmers market championing Midwest producers and local craft food purveyors.
(Suburbs):
Green City Market
(Suburbs):
Evanston Farmers Market From early May to late October, this market boasts beloved local farmers, many of whom have been setting up shop at this market for years.
BEST ICE CREAM (City):
Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams You’ll find this Ohiobased ice cream in local supermarkets, but the scoop shops have all the flavors, and with five Chicago locations, there’s bound to be one nearby!
BEST ICE CREAM/ GELATO (Suburbs):
FRÍO Gelato, Evanston
Evanston is the proud home of this artisanal Argentine gelato store, where people clamor year-round for flavors like Malbec & Berries and Dulce de Leche.
BEST GROCERY STORE (City):
Whole Foods
Everyone loves Whole Foods, with its fresh juice bar, prepared
The Grand, Winnetka & Glencoe The Grand is the hub of the suburbs, where the employees feel like family. A staple in the community, they have been keeping North Shore families fed for years with fresh produce, a huge deli selection and even a sushi bar.
TOP DINING PICKS FROM SANDY CHEN AND THE KOI TEAM:
Sandy Chen, philanthropist, community leader and owner of Koi Fine Asian Cuisine has been serving up award-winning cuisine for 26 years. We at Better, are grateful to her and her dedicated staff for tirelessly providing our community with culinary excellence, dignity and love.
BEST ITALIAN (City):
Bar Roma
Anderesonville's Bar Roma has a fierce following for their updated, but still authentic, take on Italian cucina.
BEST MEXICAN (City):
Frontera Grill
FAVORITE OUTDOOR DINING SPOT
Farm House Evanston
Local, seasonal Midwestern fare and brews. Try the Beer Battered Wisconsin Cheese Curds. 703 Church St, Evanston (847) 492-9700
Chef Rick Bayless’ flagship restaurant serves up some of the best creative Mexican fare in the city.
FAVORITE BREAKFAST SPOT
(Suburbs):
FAVORITE BRUNCH SPOT
Tamales, a Mexican Joint, Highland Park From margaritas to chicken enchiladas, this Highland Park favorite is a crowd pleaser.
BEST PIZZA (City):
Clarke’s Off Campus
All-day diner serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. A Northwestern student’s dream. 804 Davis St, Evanston • (847) 864-1610
Koi Dim Sum Brunch Dim Sum Brunch at Koi is back (and it has bottomless mimosas)! 624 Davis St, Evanston • (847) 866-6969 FAVORITE LUNCH SPOT
Next of Kin Café
Salad bar, sandwiches, coffee and housemade eclairs! 625 Davis St, Evanston (847) 563-8242
Pequod’s
FAVORITE LOCAL COFFEE SHOP
If you are craving deepdish pan pizza, this is hands down your favorite spot.
Strong coffee in sleek digs. Plus, great pastries. 622 Davis St, Evanston (847) 563-8322
Newport Coffee Shop Evanston
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(Suburbs):
Lou Malnati’s, Various Tradition is king in the suburbs, and Lou’s classic pie is a clear winner.
BEST SANDWICHES (City):
Manny’s Cafeteria & Delicatessen One of the last cafeteriastyle delis around, Manny’s award-winning corned beef and no-frills style is what’s kept customers coming back for decades.
(Suburbs):
Stacked & Folded, Winnetka and Evanston Featuring locally sourced meats and fresh seasonal produce in their sandwiches, their menu plays on their name: sandwiches (“Stacked”), tacos (“Folded”), plus, there are salads, too (“Forked”).
BEST SEAFOOD (City):
Joe’s Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab
2019 WINNER
REWIND
KOI
For a truly unique experience, head to the best seafood restaurant in the city, famous for their tuxedo-clad staff and signature stone crab claws.
Koi
(Suburbs):
(Suburbs):
Fresh oysters and woodgrilled fish? Sign us up. This hot spot in the heart of Wilmette will satisfy all your seafood cravings.
Looking for an airy, yet intimate, space with a speakeasy feel? Head to Amy Morton’s The Barn Steakhouse.
Pescadero Seafood & Oyster Bar, Wilmette
BEST STEAKHOUSE (City):
Gibson’s Bar & Steakhouse
A true Chicago icon, there is no better place for a peppercorn steak and martini while people watching on Rush Street.
The Barn Steakhouse, Evanston
BEST SUSHI (City):
Coast Sushi & Sashimi Visit the Bucktown location for colorful and inventive Signature Sushi rolls.
Nick's Neighborhood Bar & Grill Our customers and their incredible generosity have kept us open! During the shelter-in-place mandate, we received so many requests to provide meals to healthcare and frontline workers that we created a "frontline fuel" menu that addressed the specific needs of those employees. We delivered more than 1,500 meals in two months to local hospitals, fire departments and police stations. In addition, we provided more than 250 boxed lunches to local homeless shelters.
(Suburbs):
(Suburbs):
A ramen spot with the best sushi in town? You better believe it.
For 40 years, this seminal restaurant has defined what vegetarian food can be. They’re still keeping it real.
Torino Ramen, Wilmette
BEST VEGAN/ VEGETARIAN (City):
The Chicago Diner The Chicago Diner has been “meat free since ’83,” providing Chicago vegetarians, vegans, and even meat eaters, with amazing dishes year after year.
Sunda Inconsistency of capacity limits definitely sets us back in our plans, but the lowest point for us was when we were looted, and the damage it caused. Highs for us included the support we have received from our loyal guests during the closure and reopening along with our team, who is willing to come back and restore our culture.
Blind Faith Café, Evanston
(Suburbs):
Schaefer’s Wines, Foods & Spirits, Skokie They’ve been “setting the bar since 1936,” and this North Shore institution continues to win your vote.
BEST WINE STORE (City):
Binny’s Beverage Depot You’re a fan of this adultbeverage superstore, with its endless aisles of wines from every region.
Temperance Beer Co. After seeing very troubling numbers and news articles, we officially closed the Tap Room on March 14 . That same day we opened the ultimate American consumer experience: a beer drive-thru. Once we entered Phase Four, we created another essentially American experience in our parking lot: the tailgate.
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Education BEST CHICAGOAREA UNIVERSITY/ COLLEGE:
BEST PRIVATE SCHOOL (Suburbs):
One of the country’s top private research and teaching universities is located in the heart of Evanston.
This school “provides highly individualized education and life strategies for students with complex learning disabilities.”
Northwestern University, Evanston
(City):
Francis Parker
2019 WINNER
REWIND
A top-rated, independent school serving students from junior kindergarten through twelfth grade.
The Cove School, Northbrook
BEST PRESCHOOL (City):
Florence G. Heller JCC Located in Lakeview, this preschool strives “to provide the foundation for children to develop and grow while bringing Jewish values to life.”
(Suburbs):
Our Lady of Perpetual Help School, Glenview A premier private school for students preschool through 8th grade, OLPH is rooted in the Catholic faith.
BEST PUBLIC SCHOOL (City):
Walter Payton College Preparatory High School This selective enrollment public high school immerses students in a global model for learning in downtown Chicago.
How About Learning We need to support
(Suburbs):
each other and come up with new platforms to get our name out there. I appreciate Better providing a space for more people to know we are here and happy to help support families with their children's learning.
This suburban high
Glenbrook South High School, Glenview
Our Lady of Perpetual Help School
school is a learning community “dedicated to students and committed to quality of thought, word and deed.”
BEST TUTOR:
Academic Approach, Highland Park, Lincolnshire, Winnetka From one-on-one customized tutoring to ACT and SAT prep, Academic Approach helps students tackle their
learning obstacles, both online and in person.
BEST ART INSTRUCTION (City):
Art Institute of Chicago The Institute offers a variety of education courses and workshops, including Art History, giving you the opportunity to delve deeper into the museum’s collection.
BEST ART INSTRUCTION & BEST CODING CLASSES (Suburbs)
North Suburban YMCA, Northbrook With a variety of art classes to choose from, the North Suburban YMCA has the suburbs covered. They also have a new SMARTLAB, where kids can learn to code, assemble robots and more.
Windy City Crossfit
This premier strength and conditioning gym in Ravenswood will help you get in shape in no time.
(Suburbs):
ETown Fitness Club, Evanston A repeat “Best Of” winner, ETown Fitness Club is a family-owned business that treats its clients like part of the family.
BEST EQUIPMENT/ ATHLETIC WEAR STORE (City):
Lululemon, Lincoln Park
Integrating technical and performance wear, Lululemon features stylish active and athleisure clothing. Their Lincoln Park location is a beautiful hub for all things fitness, and even offers
studio classes.
BEST EQUIPMENT/ ATHLETIC WEAR STORE & BEST YOGA STUDIO (Suburbs):
The Hot Room North Shore, Glenview
The Hot Room has curated the most effective hot yoga and hot
pilates classes to help you experience physical and mental transformations, helping you jumpstart your most powerful life.
BEST FITNESS CLASSES (City):
AIR® Aerial Fitness
Designed for all levels,
AIR® strengthens your core and tones your physique in record-breaking time by fusing elements of conditioning, Pilates and HIIT (high intensity interval training). It’s pretty fun, too!
(Suburbs):
Studio Spin, Northfield Studio Spin is your North
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BOBBY O’BRIEN/MVFITNESS
BEST CROSSFIT (City):
OUR LADY OF PERPETUAL HELP
Health & Fitness
H E A LT H & W E L L N E S S C AT E G O RY S P O N S O R
Erin Clifford Wellness ERIN'S TOP LOCAL WELLNESS PICKS Erin Clifford brings world-class training and insight to her work as a wellness coach for corporate and one-on-one clients.
Bobby O'Brien/ MVFitness
Shore destination for spin and other fusion classes, like Spin & Yoga or Spin & Boxing.
BEST GYM & BEST SPIN STUDIO (City):
Studio Three
This River North studio offers dynamic workouts that combine strength and cardio for an effective sweat sesh that will get you in and out quickly.
BEST GYM (Suburbs):
Redefined Fitness, Wilmette
2019 WINNER
REWIND
BOBBY O’BRIEN/MVFITNESS
OUR LADY OF PERPETUAL HELP
A repeat “Best Of” winner, Redefined Fitness helps clients meet
their goals in a fun and supportive environment.
BEST PERSONAL TRAINER (City):
Bobby O’Brien/ MVFitness O’Brien’s full-body dance workouts will leave you feeling energized, confident and strong.
(Suburbs):
Eric Smoot/ Redefined Fitness, Wilmette Our readers voted Eric Smoot the best personal trainer in the suburbs for the second year in a row.
Studio SPIN On top of keeping our Northfield location up and running, we are opening our second location right now in Highland Park! We have also brought our studio bikes outside for outdoor classes.
BEST PILATES STUDIO (City):
Solidcore
Their high-intensity resistance training will give you the results you’ve always desired.
(Suburbs):
Pilates Central, Wilmette Combining strength, stability and core in chair or chair/mat formats, the subtle movements of pilates keep you toned and engaged.
BEST YOGA (City): Tie
Corepower Yoga One of the greatest things about CorePower Yoga is that their studios are located across the country. Wherever your travels may take you, CorePower is there.
Zen Yoga Garage A home for the urban fitness enthusiast, this yoga studio offers classes in hot & Vinyasa yoga, barre fitness and meditation.
BEST HEALTH AND WELLNESS COACH
Erin Clifford Wellness
A certified holistic wellness coach, Erin Clifford helps clients create a more fulfilling, happier existence.
BEST CHIROPRACTOR (Suburbs):
Evolution Spine & Sports Therapy, Evanston From back to neck pain, Dr. Ahrens will help you find the underlying cause of discomfort, allowing you to regain your function and live an active life.
Harvest Juicery I’ve been obsessed with Harvest Juicery for years. I love their delicious juices, cleanses and nut milks which literally enhance your beauty from the inside out.
Chill Anywhere The studio might be closed at the moment, but they offer live mediation classes, yoga and mindfulness workshops on Zoom and their app.
Chicago Health Foods This wonderful local health food store on the Gold Coast features top-of-the line supplements, hard-to find brands, and a cafe serving smoothies, juices and healthy meals to go.
Kohler Waters Spa Lincoln Park The relaxing state-of-the-art facility features Kohler’s hallmark water features and treatments. It’s a perfect oasis in the city.
The Peninsula Spa Of all the hotel spas the Peninsula truly does it best. The service and staff is impeccable, and the spa features unique treatments with amazing products. Plus, a hallmark of the spa is the most gorgeous pool in the city.
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Home & Design BEST LANDSCAPER & BEST OUTDOOR/ PATIO DESIGNER:
(Suburbs):
This award-winning, family-run company believes in “hard work, high quality, and uncompromising customer service.”
Britt Carter’s experienced design team will help you create the home of your dreams. Hester Painting & Decorating
BEST ARCHITECT (City):
Michael Abrams Interiors Timeless, comfortable, elegant and personal. Michael Abrams designs every space around the most “important element in the room—people.”
BEST ARCHITECT, BEST BUILDER & BEST KITCHEN DESIGN (Suburbs):
Normandy Remodeling
2019 WINNER
REWIND
Normandy opened a new design studio in Evanston last year and
has earned a Better Business Bureau Torch Award for Ethics and dozens of design awards.
offers a curated collection of beautiful natural wood floors.
(Suburbs): BEST BUILDER (City):
Bulley & Andrews
Lewis Floor & Home, Northbrook
Projects include Wintrust Arena, Lincoln Park Zoo Searle Visitor Center, and The Yard at Chicago Shakespeare Theater.
Shop online or visit the Northbrook showroom to find carpet, rugs, tile, countertops, hardwood, vinyl, window treatments and cabinets.
BEST FLOORING (City):
BEST INTERIOR DESIGNER (City):
APEX Wood Floors
Whatever your project may be, there is no need to look further; APEX
BEST KITCHEN DESIGN (City):
de Giulio kitchen design Mick De Giulio has been doing award-winning work creating and transforming kitchens for more than 40 years.
BEST LANDSCAPING COMPANY (City):
City Escape
A garden center and design studio that does big things, City Escape is ready to inspire you.
Bedside Manor In the heart of Lincoln Park, you’ll find this home oasis, with experts ready to help you tackle that organization project.
(Suburbs): BEST OUTDOOR/ PATIO DESIGNER (City):
Closet Works, Wilmette
Sunday Morning Interiors
There is no better team to help you create the closet of your dreams.
The designers at Sunday Morning Interiors are on a mission to help you love where you live.
BEST REAL ESTATE COMPANY:
BEST PAINTER:
Hester Painting & Decorating, Skokie You love this company’s work — Hester has won every year!
@properties
Find your dream home—or sell your current one—with the help of this firm, one of the country’s top 11 residential brokers.
THIS PAGE: HESTER PAINTING & DECORATING, BEDSIDE MANOR LTD
Britt Carter & Co, Lake Forest
Mariani Landscape, Lake Bluff
BEST HOME ORGANIZATION COMPANY (City):
Hilary Bailes Design Hilary’s work features
de Giulio kitchen design We’ve been operational the whole time and began offering virtual meetings immediately along with visits by appointment. Now, our studio in Wilmette has returned to regular operating hours and our Merchandise Mart location is welcoming visitors by appointment.
NEXT PAGE, FROM TOP: BIG BLUE SWIM SCHOOL, MAYA PAPAYA & TONY MACARONY, KIDSNIPS
“contemporary design yet with a mix of old and new, incorporating art and objects to balance the space.”
Hester Painting & Decorating Our most memorable high points were our "Help Feed Our Healthcare Heroes" fundraiser (12k+) and delivering 1,045 meals to Chicagoland hospitals through a partnership with Gino's East. Low points were definitely the uncertainty for future work and concern for our employees and their health.
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REA D ERS’ PI C KS ✶
Kids BEST KIDS CLOTHING (City):
The Red Balloon Big Blue Swim School
Kiddos outgrown everything in their closet? This Chicago favorite has the coolest clothes for babies, kids and tweens.
(Suburbs):
Maya Papaya & Tony Macarony, Evanston From tops and dresses to coats and PJs, you’ll find fun and funky items for kids ages 0-12 here.
BEST TOY STORE (City):
Building Blocks
Maya Papaya & Tony Macarony
From trains to science kits, this Lakeview shop has a curated selection of the best toys on the market.
(Suburbs):
Becky & Me Toys, Evanston
PHOTO CREDIT
For the sixth year in a row, you have named this toy store, which “is committed to encouraging play that is active and creative, and that is focused on the concerns, ideas and interests of children,” the best of the best.
BEST KIDS HAIRCUT:
KidSnips, Various Make your child’s haircut experience fun with a visit to this salon featuring video games and car-shaped cutting chairs.
BEST KIDS/FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHER (City):
Wildwood Photography
This repeat winner is all about capturing those precious, fleeting moments your family will treasure for years to come.
(Suburbs):
Julie Kaplan Photography, Highland Park From newborn sessions to senior portraits, Julie Kaplan will capture all the stages of your child’s life.
BEST SWIM SCHOOL (City):
Big Blue Swim School
With full-time swim teachers, a 3:1 swimmerto-teacher ratio and time-saving flexibility in scheduling, Big Blue Swim School makes it easy for the busy parent and fun for kids to learn.
(Suburbs):
Goldfish Swim School, Northbrook Goldfish’s The Science of SwimPlay® philosophy builds life skills (both in the water and out). The school is also committed to a max 4:1 student-to-teacher ratio, offers flexible class times, and features a shiver-free 90-degree pool.
KidSnips
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Philanthropy
(Suburbs):
New Mom’s Kitchen Walk, Oak Park New Moms helps young mothers and their children with housing, job training and support. Each year, this organization shows off beautiful kitchens to raise money to further their mission
BEST GIVE-BACK OPPORTUNITY:
Mother’s Trust Foundation Pop Up Prom Shoppe The heart of the Mother’s Trust mission is to provide a resource that can respond quickly and provide immediate assistance to low-income children and families in need. As a result of the pandemic, many families have gone from low-income to no income. In a normal year, Mother’s Trust hosts the Pop Up Prom
Designs for Dignity
Better Sister and Brother Growth Network We were able to donate PPE items to senior citizens and help with grocery shopping.
Twist Out Cancer The hardest part about the pandemic is that our immuno-compromised cancer patients have had to endure additional hurdles to access health care and critical emotional support. Cancer is already lonely and isolating and Covid-19 has made one’s journey with cancer even more overwhelming. At the same time, our decision to pivot to virtual events and programming early has allowed us to reach all types of individuals no matter where they are at in their journey with cancer.
Services BEST CATERER (City):
Butter and Vine
Butter and Vine
Butter and Vine is a relatively new catering company on the scene, but you’d never know it from the seasoned staff comprised of industry
veterans with more than 30 years of experience in full-service corporate, wedding and fundraiser event catering. During the quarantine, they started delivering meals directly to homes all over Chicagoland.
(Suburbs):
Catering by Michaels, Morton Grove Since 1980, Catering by Michaels has aspired to always deliver a truly unique and memorable experience—from start to finish. They believe
that catering is more than just food on a plate; it's about delivering a complete experience for all guests.
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THE FLOWER SHOP IN GLENCOE
Designs for Dignity works with hundreds of nonprofits throughout greater Chicago to transform their spaces through pro bono design services and in-kind donations. This year they celebrated 20 years of impact with a $20 for 20 challenge, and their Virtual Gala takes place September 30th.
Shoppe, where they collect and distribute more than 3,000 dresses, shoes, jewelry and handbags to teens in need. For a child living in poverty, basic needs and ordinary experiences may seem impossible to attain, and we hope to see this important opportunity back in 2021!
LEFT: WAGS ON WILLOW; TOP: DESIGNS FOR DIGNITY BY JILL BUCKNER PHOTOGRAPHY
Every year, participants in this walk/run raise funds for YWCA Evanston/North Shore’s work for racial justice and violence prevention. Because of Covid-19, they had to cancel their largest fundraiser, which usually raises more than $300,000. Facing a significant loss of revenue for YWCA programs, Better was proud to partner on a matching grant campaign with the YWCA, where we helped raise more than $24,000 this summer.
Designs for Dignity
to help young families create their own homes. With this year’s inperson event canceled, they pivoted to a virtual Kitchen Talk! to help keep this event, which accounts for $60,000 of their annal budget, going.
2019 WINNER
YWCA Evanston/ North Shore’s Ricky Byrdsong Memorial Race Against Hate
BEST FUNDRAISER (City):
REWIND
BEST CHARITY WALK/RUN:
Love is in the details at this wedding and event planning firm that specializes in planning, styling and production with more than 12 years of hospitality and event experience.
(Suburbs):
North Shore Weddings & Events, Winnetka A six-time Best Of winner, this business was also named one of the top 50 event planners in the country by Party Slate.
BEST FLORIST (City):
Flowers for Dreams
This company is committed to giving back, with 25 percent of net profits benefiting local charities like Chicago Blackhawks Foundation, Alzheimer’s Association, Ravinia Music Matters, and The Cove School.
(Suburbs):
The Flower Shop in Glencoe
THE FLOWER SHOP IN GLENCOE
This repeat winner creates stunningly gorgeous flower arrangements. Get your loved ones’ favorite bouquet delivered to them to brighten their day.
BEST PHOTOGRAPHER (City):
Phillip Gregory Photography
(Suburbs):
Julie Kaplan Photography, Highland Park A winner since 2014, Julie Kaplan is a portrait photographer with a studio in Highland Park. She shoots on location all over the North Shore and Chicago. She also took home the win for Best Kids and Family Photographer (Suburbs) this year.
BEST STATIONER (City):
Papersource
This is the spot in the city for bespoke wedding stationery suites to create your perfect save the dates, invitations, and more.
(Suburbs):
Calligraphy by Katherine It’s a repeat win (again) for Katherine Glattard, who hand letters all of her creations.
BEST JEWELRY REPAIR (City):
New York Jewelers
Chicago’s leading source for diamonds, fine jewelry and watches since 1890.
Established in 2015,
The Flower Shop in Glencoe
2019 WINNER
Wedicity
Phillip Gregory works to make photography the simplest and most seamless part of your special event, so that you can get to enjoying the day, party, and moment.
REWIND
BEST EVENT PLANNER (City):
The Flower Shop in Glencoe Events have been canceled but flowers haven’t been! We have been doing so much better than we had anticipated, which is why we are so committed to giving back. In June, we made $5,000 in donations to different community organizations.
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R E ADE RS’ PICKS ✶
BEST JEWELRY REPAIR (Suburbs):
Olsky Jewelers, Glencoe Olsky Jewelers is Glencoe's oldest jeweler, serving the North Shore for more than 54 years.
BEST MOVERS (City):
Golan Movers With more than 30 years of expertise, Golan is your go-to for a move in the city.
(Suburbs):
Happ Movers, Inc., Glenview Moving won’t be a pain when Happ Movers are a part of it.
BEST PET GROOMING (City):
Salon Dog
Salon dog is a fullservice boutique and pet store located in the Logan Square neighborhood. When possible, they work with retailers to offer exclusive products.
(Suburbs):
Wags on Willow, Northfield
dog and cat grooming salon and pet boutique offering only the finest selection of healthy products and grooming services to keep your fur babies happy and healthy. Founded by Mary Bowler and her beloved pug, Sushi, her mission is to provide only premier items and experiences to meet all of your pet's needs.
Shopping BEST BRIDAL SHOP (City):
Honey Bridal
Founded in 2017 by sisters Hallie Borden and Dana Karlov, Honey Bridal brings a fresh perspective to bridalwear.
BEST MAKEUP ARTIST:
BEST BOOKSTORE (Suburbs):
Book Bin, Northbrook
For the fourth year in a row, readers have voted that this is the best place to find that new favorite read.
Elise Brill
Repeat winner Elise Brill is a Chicago makeup artist and owner of Leesi B. Cosmetics, a brand committed to natural beauty.
(Suburbs):
Guys & Co. will make sure all husbands, sons, and dads are dressed to the nines.
La De Da
BEST BRIDAL SHOP (Suburbs):
Bella Bleu Bridal, Winnetka This salon offers a unique collection of dresses—everything from sophisticated gowns to boho chic frocks—that modern brides will love.
BEST BOOKSTORE (City):
Women and Children First
Wags on Willow
A beautiful men's lifestyle and supplies shop, they sell a curated blend of apparel, accessories, travel supplies, self-care products, home goods, gifts and more.
Cowboys and Astronauts
Guys & Co., Highland Park
Get Dwell
A seven-time winning Pet Groomer, Wags on Willow is a
right pair. At Warby Parker, they let you try out frames at home—for free.
Superior Optical, Glenview Superior Optical has every type of glasses you could ever need (yes, including glasses dedicated to golfing).
(Suburbs):
BEST HANDYMAN: For generations, Americans have turned to their local familyowned hardware store when they needed DIY help for their home. Now, they can repair, maintain and improve their home in confidence using the local service providers that their favorite hardware store knows and trusts.
BEST MEN’S CLOTHING (City):
A repeat winner, this Andersonville bookstore carries the newest arrivals and bestselling classics.
BEST WOMEN’S CLOTHING (City):
Hazel Apparel & Gifts Pop in to find the perfect outfit for every occasion—stress free.
(Suburbs):
Payton Rose, Northbrook Payton Rose combines the very best of women's and teens clothing and accessories in one convenient location and makes shopping a fun, personalized experience.
BEST CONSIGNMENT/ THRIFT SHOP (City):
Buffalo Exchange Check out Buffalo Exchange to get some steals on pre-loved fashion items and the chance to sell some of your own pieces.
(Suburbs):
Village Treasure House, Northbrook There’s a story behind every piece of furniture, but if you’re ready to let go of yours, put it up for consignment.
BEST EYEWEAR (City):
Warby Parker
Glasses can be a big commitment, so it’s important to pick the
BEST GIFTS (City):
Foursided
Since 2001, Foursided has been the go-to place to shop for gifts—or just to treat yourself.
BEST GIFTS (Suburbs):
La De Da, Northbrook Bring your toughest gifting challenge to this shop and the staff won’t let you down.
BEST HOME FURNISHING/HOME ACCESSORIES (City):
Jayson Home
At Jayson Home, beautiful things aren’t just a passion — they’re an obsession.
(Suburbs):
Share, Wilmette Share prides itself on being inspiring, never ordinary and always moderately priced.
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BEST LOCAL JEWELRY STORE (City):
Rahmanim’s Imports
Not sure what to look for or where to start? Stop by Rahmanim with your questions and walk out with the perfect diamond.
(Suburbs):
Christopher Duquet Fine Jewelry, Evanston Whether you’re looking for a gift for yourself or a loved one, from diamonds to gold and everything in between, Christopher Duquet Fine Jewelry has everything you’re looking for.
BEST PET STORE (City):
Jameson Loves Danger There is nothing you can’t find for your pets at this Andersonville Wpet shop.
Cowboys and Astronauts
(Suburbs):
Wilmette Pet Center
BEST SHOPPING CENTER/MALL (City):
REWIND
Bella Bleu Bridal
2019 WINNER
PHOTO CREDIT
COWBOYS AND ASTRONAUTS
If you’re looking for dog food options, check out Wilmette Pet Center’s food finder tool to help you sort foods based on formula, calories, and fiber amount.
900 North Michigan Shops
Bedside Manor Ltd Having to close the doors completely was very challenging. We are happy we are back open now, our employees are taking precautions and our customers are happy to see us!
Be sure to take in the killer view while you shop.
Westfield Old Orchard, Skokie A beautiful outdoor mall that features a variety of shops and restaurants like Anthropologie, Nordstrom, Roka Akor, and California Pizza Kitchen.
BEST HOME AND GARDEN STORE (City):
Gethsemane Garden Center
This is the place for urban gardeners. Their indoor plant selection is what Instagram dreams are made of, too.
(Suburbs):
Chalet Nursery, Wilmette
your one-stop-shop for everything you need for your garden, and then some.
BEST CANNABIS DISPENSARY (City):
Sunnyside
(Suburbs):
Mad Men, Evanston Mad Men’s knowledgeable staff will help you find what you need, whether you’re a firsttimer or a seasoned regular.
With multiple locations, Sunnyside is like the Apple store for cannabis.
Always a reader favorite, Chalet Nursery is
Book Bin We're in such a great place in the crossroads of our country that we can access four different warehouses of our book wholesaler, reaching across the country and receiving books within the week!
Village Treasure House We offered a new online shopping experience with curbside pick-up during the shutdown once it was allowed. This additional sales outlet continues to grow, and we are finding new customers shopping with us. Once our retail location was able to open, we implemented changes based on guidance from the CDC and the state of Illinois.
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PROMOTION
BEST of 2020 Winners Spotlight
Best Event Planner - Suburbs
Best Facial ONE MAGNIFICENT MEDSPA Where mindfulness and medical aesthetics are intermingled to improve the health of your skin. We pamper you with medical-grade products and treatments: MD peels, microdermabrasion, micro-needling, laser rejuvenation, botulinum toxin and dermal fillers, and other medical skincare regimens to help your skin age gracefully. You owe it to yourself to take care of you, your skin and your wellness – inside and out. Rewarding yourself with moments of serenity is essential to achieving beautifying, rejuvenating results. 570 Lincoln Ave, Suite 4, Lower Level, Winnetka, IL 847.503.9056 1mmspa.com
NORTH SHORE WEDDINGS & EVENTS North Shore Weddings & Events is a luxury national event planning company providing flawless, chic events that will entertain and inspire you and your guests. They provide full and partial planning services for weddings and social events with individual design and attention to details. Photo: Riverbend Photography 990 Green Bay Road, Suite 2, Winnetka, IL 312.546.2360 northshoreevents.com
Best Local Jewelry Store - Suburbs
Best Home Organization Company - Suburbs CLOSET WORKS Closet Works is proud to be the largest Closet company that has been organizing Chicago and Chicagoland one closet at a time for the past 33 years. Our Experienced Certified Designers “Organize your Life” and enhance your personal organized spaces including Custom Closets, Offices, Garages, Pantry, Laundry or Wall Beds. Our designers have an average of 14 years of experience and come out to your home for a complimentary in-home consultation. Our storage systems are custom manufactured under strict quality standards in our 60,000 sq. ft. factory in Elmhurst and installed by our experienced staff of installers. In addition to offering custom storage solutions we also provide Hunter Douglas Window Treatments. Check out our work in our Chicago showroom open 7 days a week. (Free Parking) 2112 N Clybourn Ave, Chicago, IL, 630.592.4333 closetworks.com
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CHRISTOPHER DUQUET FINE JEWELRY This Evanston jewelry studio specializes in restyle, bespoke jewelry design, and engagement rings (and did we mention that they make everything in-house?). Their latest collection was inspired by Christopher’s travels where he designed earrings inspired by architecture from around the world. 1224 Chicago Ave, #102, Evanston, IL 847.733.0656 christopherduquet.com
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PROMOTION
BEST of 2020 Winners Spotlight
BLEACH CHICAGO
Best Haircut/Hair Salon Services - City
Located at 1816 W. Belmont Avenue, our space was intentionally designed with you in mind. Set against a minimalist interior, our guests become the focal piece every day! We believe style should be effortless and that is clear in everything that we do. 1816 W. Belmont Ave, Chicago, IL 773.788.2886 bleachchicago.com
Best Art Gallery - Suburbs
Best Live Theater - Suburbs WRITERS THEATRE For 29 years, Writers Theatre has captivated Chicagoland audiences with inventive interpretations of classic work, a bold approach to contemporary theatre and a dedication to creating intimate theatrical experiences. WT has grown to become a major Chicagoland cultural destination with a national reputation for excellence. 325 Tudor Court, Glencoe, IL 847.242.6000 writerstheatre.org
Best Eyewear - Suburbs
ANNE LOUCKS GALLERY
SUPERIOR OPTICAL
Anne Loucks Gallery specializes in contemporary American art, representing over 50 emerging and mid-career artists who work in a variety of styles and mediums. Since its founding, the Gallery has established a reputation for its exceptional group of artists, innovative exhibitions, knowledgeable client service, and warm, welcoming environment. The Gallery believes whole heartedly in the inspiring power of art, and is committed to providing the best experience to its clients, connecting them with art that enriches their lives.
Superior Optical is a family owned business serving Glenview for over 40 years. From French designers like Anne et Valentine and Face a Face, to Hi-Tech frames like Mykita and Lindberg, you are bound to see something new every time you step in our store. 2723 Pfingsten Road, Plaza Del Prado, Glenview, IL 847.564.3838 superioropticaleyewear.com
309 Park Ave, Glencoe, IL 847.835.8500 loucksgallery.com @anneloucksgallery
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PROMOTION
BEST of 2020 Winners Spotlight
Best Sandwiches - Suburbs
Best Wine Store - Suburbs
STACKED AND FOLDED
SCHAEFER’S FINE WINES, SPIRITS & FOODS
We are in our fifth successful year with busy locations in Evanston and Winnetka. Safety and cleanliness have always been top priorities and that commitment continues. Visit us for healthy, fresh fusion sandwiches, tacos and salads. Both locations offer carryout, delivery, and patios for socially distanced, al fresco dining.
Schaefer’s, a North Shore landmark and family owned since 1936, offers the best in beverage and gourmet foods. Beer, wine, spirits, artisan cheeses, homemade soups and dips, charcuterie, you name it! Nationally recognized cellar. Enjoy the best customer service anywhere. Stop by or shop at schaefers.com. Curbside and home/ business delivery are available.
551 Lincoln Ave, Winnetka, IL 847.386.9100 824 Noyes Street, Evanston, IL 847.328.9100 stackedandfolded.com
9965 Gross Point Road, Skokie, IL 847.677.9463 schaefers.com
Best Coffee Shop - City
Best Women’s Clothing - Suburbs
PINIPICO COFFEE CO.
PAYTON ROSE BOUTIQUE
PiniPico Coffee Co. brings the warm spirit of Brazilians to Chicago, led by our founder Dr. Luciano Dias. In addition to offering Dark Matter Coffee, PiniPico’s menu focuses on Pao de Queijo - a classic Brazilian “cheese bread” with a variety of flavors and fillings.
Payton Rose combines the very best of Women’s and Teens clothing and accessories in one convenient location. Our store is filled with merchandise for women of all ages and sizes from XS - XL. While we offer the brands you love, we strive to keep our prices reasonable. Happy Shopping!
1538 N Clark Street, Chicago, IL 312.624.8389 pinipico.com
2760 Dundee Road, Northbrook, IL 847.498.7673 paytonrose.com
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PROMOTION
BEST of 2020 Winners Spotlight
Best Preschool - Suburbs
Best Haircut/ Salon Services - Suburbs
OUR LADY OF PERPETUAL HELP SCHOOL (OLPH SCHOOL) - PRESCHOOL – 8TH GRADE
ANDREAS HOGUE SALON
For 90 years, Our Lady of Perpetual Help School has provided an outstanding Catholic education within the North Shore community. OLPH is a community bound by a mission of faith and dedicated to designing an individualized program of success for each child with carefully structured classes, allowing for every child to be known and loved. Come discover the distinction that makes us an extraordinary place of learning! 1123 Church Street, Glenview, IL 847.724.6990 olph-il.org
Andreas Hogue Salon is a high-end cut and color salon where you will find creative, passionate stylists who are obsessed with hair. We have been named the “Best Of Chicago” for the past seven consecutive years and want to thank all who voted. We are excited to share our beautiful, new salon—our second location—located in Vernon Hills’ Mellody Farm. Northbrook - 840 Willow Road Suite K, 847.272.1616 Vernon Hills - 901 N Milwaukee Ave, Unit 650, 224.206.8424 andreashogue.com
MEDICAL AND AESTHETIC EXCELLENCE IN DERMATOLOGY Voted Best “Cosmetic Dematologist - Suburbs” 3 Years in a Row by Better Readers Amy Forman Taub, MD, FAAD, and her partners, Anne Marie Leger, MD, FAAD, and Monika Kaniszewska, MD, FAAD are leading the way in innovative dermatology in the greater North Shore and Chicago area. Advanced Dermatology, one of the top medical and cosmetic dermatology practices in the US, is recognized for excellence in dermatological care, skin cancer detection as well as specializing in cosmetic dermatology, such as injectable fillers and neuromodulators, laser surgery including resurfacing, non-invasive body shaping, treatments for acne scarring and procedural treatments for acne, feminine wellness, photodynamic therapy and cosmeceutical-grade skincare. Advanced Dermatology has two locations in the Chicago suburbs, Lincolnshire and Glencoe, IL. (Left to right: Anne Marie Leger, MD, FAAD, Amy Forman Taub, MD, FAAD, and Monika Kaniszewska, MD, FAAD)
Best Cosmetic Dermatologist – Suburbs
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275 Parkway Drive, Suite 521, Lincolnshire, IL 716 Vernon Avenue, Glencoe, IL 847.459.6400 info@advdermatology.com advdermatology.com
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When it comes to quality products, advice and service, Chicagoland homeowners have trusted local, family-owned hardware stores for generations. Who do these stores trust and recommend? Get Dwell.
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847.922.3418 | GetDwell.com 9/2/20 2:17 PM 9/2/20 12:50 PM
Chicago Area
2020
Private School Guide
Produced by
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A WARM WELCOME
We reached out to our Private School Guide
partners to learn more about how they are responding to Covid-19. Here are Visit our private school guide online marinmagazine.com/ private -school-guide
The Cove School How has your school pivoted in response to COVID-19? “In response to COVID-19, Cove providing services for students with special needs, it was important that we provided the live instruction and clinical services our students need through a remote platform. Every day, our students and staff met live over Zoom. Classes were recorded for students to access on their own time if they were unavailable to attend the live Zoom meeting and assignments were made available through Google Classroom.”
How does your school plan to conduct teaching in the fall? Are there any contingency plans for the spring? “For the fall, we plan to provide both in-person and synchronous remote instruction to our students attending from home. To handle both in-person and online instruction, all of our classrooms have been equipped with Padcasters to broadcast the live classroom instruction and interactive displays to bring students attending from home into the classroom group. In addition, to reduce exposure of our students and staff attending in-person, we have implemented a ‘pod’ model of smaller student and staff teams, installed a school-wide bipolar ionization air filtration system, equipped our bathrooms with antimicrobial countertops, increased cleaning and
disinfecting procedures, and implemented protocols for symptom checks and screening.”
What will your school be offering to make its curriculum/educational experience unique? “Our program in the fall will focus on supporting the social/emotional and academic needs of our students. We will continue to offer a daily two-hour literacy block and one-hour math block across all units, elementary through high school. Additionally, we will be focusing on trauma-informed instruction to integrate social/emotional support directly into our curriculum, recognizing the profound impact COVID has had on our students and families.”
Is there is anything else you would like current/potential families to know? “The health and safety of our students, families, and staff remain our top priority. Whether looking at Cove’s investment in new technology to provide high-quality remote instruction or focusing on our facility upgrades that promote health and safety for inperson learning - Cove is prepared to provide the best education to those with special needs under any circumstances. For more information, please contact Mark Ditthardt at mditthardt@coveschool.org.”
Our Lady of Perpetual Help How has your school pivoted in response to COVID-19? “On Friday, March 13 we went from in-person learning to remote learning which began the following Monday, March 16. We had remote learning through the end of the 2019-2020 school year. For the 20202021 school year, the Archdiocese of Chicago has stated that all their schools, which OLPH School is one, will open for in-person learning. We plan to have a staggered start, calling it our Warrior Warm Up for K-8 beginning on August 24. All students (and staff ) will have a wellness check before they enter the buildings. Everyone must wear a mask. Social Distancing will be followed. Students will be grouped in
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cohorts and stay together. Teachers will come to them instead of students traveling to other subject. Preschool will begin and be included in our staggered start on September 1. We will be providing Before & After Care in a larger area to accommodate for social distancing. More details on OLPH School’s Reopening Plans can be found on the COVID-19 page on our website.”
How does your school plan to conduct teaching in the fall? Are there any contingency plans for the spring?“Our contingency plan is to go to Remote Learning, which we are able to do easily and are planning for in case of exposure in a cohort or closing of school. We do not plan to provide Remote and in-
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how the following eight schools are adapting to this unprecedented challenge — visit our website to view updates from the other private schools in our guide.
person learning side by side. It is too much to ask of our teachers to create 2 concurrent curriculums.”
community and the strength we have together to support one another spiritually, academically and emotionally.”
What will your school be offering to make its curriculum/educational experience unique? “We are doing in-per-
Is there is anything else you would like current/potential families to know? “There is a reason we won the NS Choice
son learning when most schools are doing remote or a hybrid. We are prepared for remote learning if a cohort has to quarantine or school has to close. The bigger factor that makes us stand out is our faith
awards as Best Private K-8 School and Best Preschool.”
Sacred Heart Schools How has your school pivoted in response to COVID-19? “In the spring we moved incredibly quickly -- in a matter of days -- to bring our emergency remote learning program to fruition. Over the course of the next few months, our teachers worked tirelessly to provide a meaningful and manageable remote learning experience that nurtured strong, positive connections between students and teachers and emphasized the most essential learning targets in each grade level or subject area. This summer, we have focused on technology, teaching, and learning so that we can support the continued academic and personal growth of our students, regardless of the venue in which learning takes place.”
How does your school plan to conduct teaching in the fall? Are there any contingency plans for the spring? “Of course, the emotional and physical health and well-being of all members of our community is always a top priority. Our school’s Opening of School Task Force members partnered with experts in various fields to establish new health and safety practices to mitigate the transmission of COVID-19. Our Academic Team has reimagined how in-person teaching and learning can flourish and how remote learning can be more robust, should that be necessary. Our current plan is to return to campus for in-person teaching and learning for PK-5, and a hybrid program for our middle schoolers. Families will have an option for Remote Access Learning, should they choose. If we need to pivot to completely remote learning, we are prepared to do so smoothly so we can nurture students’ growth both cognitively and socially, as
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well as prioritize the emotional and physical health and wellbeing of all members of our community, including students, parents, and teachers.”
What will your school be offering to make its curriculum/educational experience unique? “Sacred Heart provides a challenging, modern and remarkable curriculum within a nurturing environment that inspires students to find their own voice and grow in self-confidence. Students enjoy a rigorous, well-rounded educational experience—one that nourishes mind and heart. Our students develop intelligent and compassionate worldviews and are motivated to leave an indelible, positive mark on the world. Students at Sacred Heart develop an awareness that the world is bigger than their own needs. Our deep belief in the pursuit of respect, generosity, empathy, justice and hope guides our community and shapes our culture. We offer many and varied opportunities to serve, which enables students to engage the community and the world with a sense of gratitude and a desire to learn from others’ experiences. Our purposeful blend of single-gender and co-educational learning experiences encourages engagement, dispels gender stereotypes, and builds our students’ confidence.”
Is there is anything else you would like current/ potential families to know? “Our ‘Back to the Heart’ webpage contains additional information that families might find helpful.”
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Wolcott School How has your school pivoted in response to COVID-19? “We are in a unique situation as that we always use technology to help our students learn. Our students are provided a MacBook Air laptop computer and are taught how to use technology to their advantage. Our students are actively engaged in their learning and participate in classroom discussion whether its inperson or remote.”
How does your school plan to conduct teaching in the fall? Are there any contingency plans for the spring? “The majority of our students have opted to attend school each day of the week or in a hybrid manner choosing which day to learn in-person. We also have a community of learners who have opted to learn remotely full time. We have invested in technology so that students learning remotely are still able to participate fully in synchronous LIVE learning.”
What will your school be offering to make its curriculum/educational experience unique? “At the conclusion of each day of school, Wolcott College Prep will host Community Enrichment for our students. Participation in a variety of extracurricular activities including student clubs and sports are available. Academic Coaching is available to all students at the end of the day. Students receive homework support and help with organization and planning.”
Is there is anything else you would like current/potential families to know? “Wolcott College Prep is an exemplary college preparatory high school for students with learning differences, tailored to the strengths and aspirations of each student. Employing best practices, our expert faculty is committed to helping each student achieve academically, communicate effectively, and grow socially as well as develop the self-awareness, confidence, and resilience to thrive in college and beyond.Wolcott College Prep serves students from the surrounding Chicagoland area. Our students attend from the Northern, Southern and Western Suburbs as well as throughout the city of Chicago. 100% of or graduates are admitted into college. Generous tuition assistance available.”
Chicago City Day School How has your school pivoted in response to COVID-19? “The Chicago City Day School community has demonstrated great ingenuity and resilience throughout this experience with COVID-19. Last spring, teachers created a rich online learning program for students that kept our unique academic program moving forward, even with our campus closed. This summer, the School’s leadership team, with assistance from a group of parents, worked tirelessly on a reopening plan that will restore in-person learning while taking every possible precaution to ensure safety for students and staff. We look forward to seeing our students again in September, even though this year will be unlike any other in the School’s history.”
How does your school plan to conduct teaching in the fall? Are there any contingency plans for the spring? “As mentioned earlier, we plan to be open for in-person learning this fall. City Day is fortunate to have a campus that features numerous
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indoor and outdoor learning spaces. We will be able to safely distance students and control flow inside our main building to minimize contact between classes. As we prepare for reopening, we also continue to monitor state and federal health guidelines regarding COVID-19. If conditions require us to go back to remote learning, we have a robust online program ready to go.”
What will your school be offering to make its curriculum/educational experience unique? “The implementation of remote learning last spring reminded us just how unique the educational experience already is here at City Day. Our program has long been built on differentiation — preparing students to achieve academically at a level that is commensurate with their abilities through small-group learning. We’ve seen that approach engage and inspire students in the classroom, and in the spring we saw it work just as well when applied to an online model. We’re confident that our approach will be particularly effective this fall, when a strong relationship between teacher and student, one built on respect and trust, will be paramount.”
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Is there is anything else you would like current/potential families to know? “Chicago City Day School challenges students with a rigorous academic program, and it does so within a culture of kindness. Our curriculum, which combines engaging classroom work with real-world experiential learning, encourages students to stretch themselves and take risks. Our students com-
pose poems, build rockets, cast a critical eye to the past, and design solutions for the future. They run an on-campus business, and they research wildlife habitats in the waters of the Bahamas. City Day prepares students to be active, confident, and knowledgeable citizens of the world.”
Baker Demonstration School How has your school pivoted in response to COVID-19?“Our mission is our strong guide - to champion an exemplary progressive education - and every small and large change has been guided by this mission and the health and safety guidelines from the CDC and IDPH.”
How does your school plan to conduct teaching in the fall? Are there any contingency plans for the spring? “We have created plans that best support the health and safety of our community during an unprecedented time. We have planned a gradual opening of school this fall with many options for our families. Many of our early childhood learners are on campus and some are joining at home via eLearning. Our first though eighth grade have begun in eLearning, and each grade is coming to campus once a week to connect with their classmates and teachers.”
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What will your school be offering to make its curriculum/educational experience unique? “One of the unique aspects of Baker is the way that the teachers are in relationship with students - and the beginning of the year provides so many opportunities for this - even in these circumstances. One unique progra is our@Baker program, which invites each class to campus for a safe and fun outdoor gathering. Our early childhood - preschool and kindergarten - have set up beautiful, Reggio-inspired classroom spaces out of doors. Our learning kits for students learning from home are filled with practical supports as well as fun reminders of their school community.”
Is there is anything else you would like current/potential families to know? “The pandemic and its effects on children and the racial reckonings of this summer remind us that both are intertwined. As we think about our youngest citizens, educators have much work to do to ensure that schools are spaces for healthy dialogue about race and identity and sites of equitable practice. Our youngest learners require our deep commitment to systemic change.”
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RELIGIOUS COUNTY / CITY
SCHOOL
GRADES /GENDER
RATIO /ACCREDITATION
AFFILIATION
Academy of St. Benedict the African
West Englewood, Chicago
PreK-8, Co-ed
Catholic
Aqsa School
Cook County, Bridgeview
PreK-12, Girls
Islamic
Aurora Central Catholic High School
DuPage, Aurora
9-12, Co-ed
Catholic
12:1 NACACSS, ISBE, NCEA, IHSA
Aurora Christian Schools
DuPage, Aurora
PreK-12, Co-ed
Christian
ACSI, ISBE, IHSA,
Benet Academy
DuPage , Lisle
9-12, Co-ed
Catholic
ISACS, Cognia, ISBE, NCEA, NHSSS, IHSA
Bernard Zell Anshe Emet Day School
Lake View, Chicago
Nursery-8, Co-ed
Jewish
5:1 NAIS, ISACS, RAVSAK
Brother Rice High School
Bloomfield Township, Chicago
9-12, Boys
Catholic
18:1
Carmel Catholic High School
Lake County, Mundelein
9-12, Co-ed
Catholic
ISBE, NCEA, Cognia
Chesterton Academy of the Holy Family
DuPage, Lisle
9-12, Co-ed
Catholic
Chicago Christian High
Cook County, Palos Heights
9-12, Co-ed
Christian
10:1 ISBE, Cognia, CSI
Chicago Hope Academy
Near West Side, Chicago
9-12, Co-ed
Christian
10:1
Christ the King Jesuit College Prep
Austin, Chicago
9-12, Co-ed
Jesuit Catholic
Christian Heritage Academy
Cook County, Northfield
Pre-12, Co-ed
Christian
9:1 ACSI, ISBE, IHSA, Cognia
Christian Liberty Academy
Cook County, Arlington Heights
Pre-12, Co-ed
Christian
IHSA
College Preparatory School of America
DuPage, Lombard
K-12, Co-ed
Islamic
Cristo Rey Jesuit High School
Lower West Side, Chicago
9-12, Co-ed
Jesuit Catholic
ISBE, Cognia, IHSA
Daystar Academy
Cook County, Chicago
PreK-12, Co-ed
Christian
IB
De La Salle Lourdes Hall Campus
Bridgeport, Chicago
9-12, Girls
Catholic
Cognia
De La Salle Institute
South Loop, Chicago
9-12, Boys
Catholic
Cognia
DePaul College Prep
Cook County, Chicago
9-12, Co-ed
Catholic
11:1
East Lake Academy
Lake County, Lake Forest
PreK-8, Co-ed
Catholic
6:1
Fasman Yeshiva High School
Cook County, Skokie
9-12, Boys
Hebrew
14:1 HLC
Fenwick High School
Cook County, Oak Park
9-12, Co-ed
Catholic
Furqaan Academy
Will, Bolingbrook
PreK-12, Co-ed
Islamic
Hanna Sacks Bais Yaakov High School
Cook County, Chicago
9-12, Co-ed
Jewish
Harvest Christian Academy
Kane, Elgin
PreK-12, Co-ed
Christian
academystbenedict.org • 773.776.3316 aqsa.edu • 708.598.2700
auroracentral.com/apps/contact • 630.907.0095
aurorachristian.org • 630.892.1551 benet.org • 630.969.6550 bernardzell.org • 773.281.1858
brotherrice.org • 773.429.4300 carmelhs.org • 847.566.3000
chestertonacademyoftheholyfamily.com • 630.442.1424 swchristian.org • 708.388.7656
chicagohopeacademy.org • 312.491.1616 ctkjesuit.org • 773.261.7505
christianheritage.org • 847.446.5252 christianlibertyacademy.com • 847.385.2012
cpsaonline.org • 630.889.8000 cristorey.net • 773.890.6800
daystaracademy.org • 312.791.0001
dls.org • 773.650.6800 dls.org • 312.842.7355
depaulprep.org • 773.539.3600 eastlakeacademy.org • 847.247.0035 htc.edu • 847.982.2500
fenwickfriars.com • 708.386.0127
furqaanacademy.org • 630.914.5015
hsby.org • 773.338.9222
harvestchristianacademy.org • 847.214.3500
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Cognia ISBE, ACOCS
Cognia, ACSI, ISBE, IHSA
B E T T E R . N E T/ P R I VAT E S C H O O L G U I D E
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SCHOOL
COUNTY / CITY
GRADES /GENDER
RATIO /ACCREDITATION
AFFILIATION
Hinsdale Adventist Academy
DuPage, Hinsdale
PreK-12, Co-ed
Adventist Christian
12.5:1 AAA, NCPSA, MSA
Holy Family School
Cook County, Chicago
PreK-8, Co-ed
Lutheran
PreK = 10:1, K-8 = 20:1 Cognia, NASECS/SDE
Holy Trinity High School
West Town, Chicago
9-12, Co-ed
Catholic
12:1
IC Catholic Prep
DuPage, Elmhurst
9-12, Co-ed
Catholic
17:1 ISBE, IHSA
Ida Crown Jewish Academy
Cook County, Skokie
9-12, Co-ed
Jewish
5:1 Cognia
Illinois Lutheran High School
Will, Crete
9-12, Co-ed
Christian
12:1 NCPSA
Islamic Foundation School
DuPage, Villa Park
Pre-12, Co-ed
Islamic
IHSA, ISBE, Cognia, ICNS
Joliet Catholic Academy
Will, Joliet
9-12, Co-ed
Catholic
13:1 Cognia, ISBE, NCEA, NHSSS, IHSA
Lake Baptist School
Lake County, Waukegan
Pre-12, Co-ed
Christian
9:1 AACS, IACS, ISBE
Leo Catholic High School
Auburn Gresham, Chicago
9-12, Boys
Catholic
Logos Christian Academy
Cook County, Niles
K2-12, Co-ed
Christian
8:1 AACS, IACS
Loyola Academy
Cook County, Wilmette
9-12, Co-ed
Jesuit Catholic
21:1 ISBE, Cognia, JSN
Marian Catholic High School
Cook County, Chicago Heights
9-12, Co-ed
Catholic
13:1, IHSA, Cognia, ISBE, NCEA, ICOPS, DASS, NASSP
Marian Central Catholic High School
McHenry, Woodstock
9-12, Co-ed
Catholic
8:1 Cognia
Marist High School
Mount Greenwood, Chicago
9-12, Co-ed
Catholic
IHSA
Marmion Academy
DuPage, Aurora
9-12, Boys
Catholic-Benedictine
15:1, Cognia, ISBE, NCEA, AMCSUS, CASE, NASSP, NHS, SSATB
Marquette Manor Baptist Academy
DuPage, Downers Grove
K5-12, Co-ed
Christian
12:1 IHSA, IACS, AACS
Montini Catholic High School
DuPage, Lombard
9-12, Co-ed
Catholic
IHSA
Mother McAuley Liberal Arts H. S.
Mount Greenwood, Chicago
9-12, Girls
Catholic
13:1, ISBE, Cognia, Mercy Education System of The Americas
Mount Carmel High School
Woodlawn, Chicago
9-12, Boys
Catholic
14:1
Nazareth Academy
Cook County, La Grange Park
9-12, Co-ed
Catholic
24:1 ISBE, Cognia
Northridge Prepatory School
Cook County, Niles
6-12, Boys
Catholic
9:1
Northside Catholic Academy
Cook County, Chicago
PreK-4, Co-ed
Catholic
Pre = 10:1, K = 12:1, 1-4 max 25:1
Northside Catholic Academy
Cook County, Chicago
5-8, Co-ed
Catholic
25:1
Notre Dame College Prep
Cook County, Niles
9-12, Boys
Catholic
IHSA
Our Lady of Perpetual Help
Cook County, Glenview
PreK-8, Co-ed
Catholic
10:1 NCEA, ISBE, ACOCS
Our Lady of Tepeyac High School
Little Village, Chicago
9-12, Girls
Catholic
16:1
Providence Catholic High School
Will, New Lenox
9-12, Co-ed
Catholic
ISBE, NCA/Cognia, NCEA, TASEA
haa.org • 630.323.9211
hfm.org • 773.265.0550 holytrinity.hs.org • 773.278.4212
iccatholicprep.org • 630.530.3460 icja.org • 773).973.1450 ilhs.org • 708.672.3262
ifsvp.org • 630.941.8800
jca.online.org • 815.741.0500
lcbministries.org/school • 847.623.7600
leohighschool.org • 773).224.9600
mylogos.org/wpLogos • 847.647.9456
goramblers.org • 847.256.1100 marianchs.com • 708.756.9758
marian.com • 815.338.4220 marist.net • 773.881.5300
marmion.org • 630.897. 6936
marquettemanoracademy.org • 630.964.5363 montini.org • 630.627.6930
mothermcauley.org • 773.881.6500 mchs.org • 773.324.1020
nazarethacademy.com • 708.354.0109 northridgeprep.org • 847.375.0600
northsidecatholic.org • 773.743.6277 northsidecatholic.org • 773.271.2008 nddons.org • 847.965.2900 olph.il.org • 847.724.6990
ourladyoftepeyac.org • 773.522.0023
providencecatholic.org • 815.485.2136
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COUNTY / CITY
SCHOOL
GRADES /GENDER
RATIO /ACCREDITATION
AFFILIATION
Regina Dominican
Cook County, Wilmette
9-12, Girls
Catholic
15:1
Ressurection College Prep High School
Norwood Park, Chicago
9-12, Girls
Catholic
NCEA
Rochelle Zell Jewish High School
Cook County, Deerfield
9-12, Co-ed
Jewish
15:1 ISACS, NACAC, IACAC, IHSA,
Rosary High School
DuPage, Aurora
9-12, Girls
Catholic
13:1 NCACSS
Sacred Heart School
Cook County, Winnetka
PreK-8, Co-ed
Catholic
9:1, Cognia, ISBE, Chicago Archdiocesan Office of Catholic Education
Sacred Heart Schools
Cook County, Chicago
PreK-8, Co-ed
Catholic
7:1 PreK JK, 9:1 SK-8 ISACS, LMAIS, NAIS, NCEA,
Schaumburg Christian School
Cook County, Schaumburg
Pre-12, Co-ed
Christian
Cognia, AACS, NCPSA, NACSAA, IACS, ISBE
Seton Academy
DuPage, Villa Park
3-12, Co-ed
Catholic Montessori
St. Clement School
Lincoln Park, Chicago
PreK-8, Co-ed
Catholic
12:1
St. Edward Central Catholic High School
Kane, Elgin
9-12, Co-ed
Catholic
13:1 NCEA, Cognia, ISBE
St. Francis de Sales High School
East Side, Chicago
9-12, Co-ed
Catholic
St. Ignatius College Prep
Near West Side, Chicago
9-12, Co-ed
Catholic
17:1
St. Joseph High School
Cook County, Westchester
9-12, Co-ed
Catholic
15:1 NCEA, Cognia
St. Laurence High School
Cook County, Burbank
9-12, Co-ed
Catholic
14:1 NCACS, ISBR, NCEA
St. Rita of Cascia High School
Ashburn, Chicago
9-12, Boys
Catholic
14:1 ISBE, Cognia
St. Viator High School
Cook County, Arlington Heights
9-12, Co-ed
Catholic
14:1 IHSA
The School of Saints Faith, Hope & Charity
Cook County, Winnetka
PreK-8, Co-ed
Catholic
10:1
The Willows Academy
Cook County, Des Plaines
6-12, Girls
Catholic
9:1
Trinity Oaks Christian Academy
McHenry, Cary
PreK-12, Co-ed
Christian
9:1 Cognia, ACSI
Universal School
Cook County, Bridgeview
PreK-12, Co-ed
Islamic
12:1 ISBE, NCA, CISNA
Walther Christian Academy
Cook County, Melrose Park
6-12, Co-ed
Christian
11:1 Cognia, National Lutheran Schools
Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart
Lake County, Lake Forest
9-12, Girls
Catholic
4:1, TABS, LMAIS, ISACS, NAIS, NCGS, Network of Sacred Heart Schools
rdhs.org • 847.256.7660
reshs.org • 773.775.6616
rzjhs.org • 847.470.6700
rosaryhs.com • 630.896.0831 shwschool.org • 847.446.0005 shschicago.org • 773.262.4446 schaumburgchristian.com • 847.885.3230
setonmontessori.com • 630.279.4101 stclementschool.org • 773.348.8212
stedhs.org • 847.741.7535
sfdshs.org • 773.731.7272
ignatius.org • 312.421.5900
stjoeshs.org • 708.562.4433
stlaurence.com • 708.458.6900 stritahs.com • 773.925.6600
saintviator.com • 847.392.4050
faithhopeschool.org • 847.446.0031
willowsacademy.org • 847.824.6900 trinity.oaks.org • 847.462.5971
universalschool.org • 708.599. 4100
walther.com • 708.344.0404
woodlandsacademy.org • 847.234.4300
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INDEPENDENT SCHOOL
COUNTY / CITY
GRADES /GENDER
RATIO /ACCREDITATION
AFFILIATION
American School
Cook County, Lansing
6-12 Co-ed
Independent (Virtual)
MSA-CESS, AI, NCPSA
Baker Demonstration School
Cook County, Wilmette
PreK-8 Co-ed
Independent
ISACS, NAIS, LMAIS, PEN
Black Bear Academy
Cook County, Chicago
Toddler-K Co-ed
Independent
British International School, South Loop
South Loop, Chicago
3-18 Co-ed
Independent
9:1 IPC, IGCSE, IBP, ENC, NIPSA, CIS
Bubbles Academy
Lincoln Park, Chicago
PreK-K Co-ed
Independent
6:1
Chicago City Day School
Boystown, Chicago
Junior K-8 Co-ed
Independent
NCA/Cognia, ISACS
Chicago Waldorf School
Andersonville, Chicago
PreK-12 Co-ed
Independent
AWSNA, ISACS, LMAIS, NAIS, WECAN
Elgin Academy
Kane, Elgin
PreK-12 Co-ed
Independent
ISACS, NAIS
Francis W. Parker School
Lincoln Park , Chicago
Junior K-12 Co-ed
Independent
8:1
Fusion Academy Chicago
Cook County, Chicago
6-12 Co-ed
Independent
1:1 MSA-CESS, Cognia
Fusion Academy Evanston
Cook County, Evanston
6-12 Co-ed
Independent
1:1 MSA-CESS, Cognia
Fusion Academy Lake Forest
Lake County, Lake Forest
6-12 Co-ed
Independent
1:1 MSA-CESS, Cognia
Fusion Academy Oak Brook
DuPage, Oak Brook
6-12 Co-ed
Independent
1:1 MSA-CESS, Cognia
GCE Lab School
Cook County, Chicago
9-12 Co-ed
Independent
7:1 NAIS, Cognia ISBE
GEMS World Academy
Cook County, Chicago
PreK-12 Co-ed
Independent
7:1 NAIS, IB, NEASC Candidate
Hyde Park Day School (Chicago)
Woodlawn, Chicago
6-15 Co-ed
Independent
5:1 NCA, ISACS, LMAIS, IDA
Hyde Park Day School (Lemont)
Cook County, Lemont
6-15 Co-ed
Independent
5:1 NCA, ISACS, LMAIS, IDA
Hyde Park Day School (Northfield)
Cook County, Northfield
6-15 Co-ed
Independent
5:1 NCA, ISACS, LMAIS, IDA
Lake Forest Academy
Lake , Lake Forest
9-12 Co-ed
Independent
6:1 ISACS, NAIS
Lake Forest Country Day School
Lake County, Lake Forest
PreK-8 Co-ed
Independent
7:1 NAIS, ISACS
Latin School of Chicago
Near North Side, Chicago
Junior K-12 Co-ed
Independent
8:1 NAIS, ISACS
Lycée Français de Chicago
Lincoln Square, Chicago
PreK-12 Co-ed
Independent, French
9:1 AEFE, IB, NAIS, ISBE, ISACS, FISNA
Midwest Academy for Gifted Education
Cook County, Chicago
K-12 Co-ed
Independent
8:1
Morgan Park Academy
Morgan Park, Chicago
PreK-12 Co-ed
Independent
8:1 ISACS, NAIS, LMAIS
North Shore Country Day School
Cook County, Winnetka
Junior K-12 Co-ed
Independent
8:1 NAIS, LMAIS, ISACS
Providence St. Mel School
East Garfield Park, Chicago
PreK-12 Co-ed
Independent
americanschoolofcorr.com • 708.418.2800
bakerdemschool.org • 847.425.5800 blackbearacademy.com • 733.244.0700 nordangliaeducation.com • 773.599.2472 bubblesacademy.com • 312.944.7677
chicagocitydayschool.org • 773.327.0900
chicagowaldorf.org • 773.465.2662 elginacademy.org • 847.695.0300 fwparker.org • 773.353.3000
fusionacademy.com • 312.763.6990
fusionacademy.com • 847.868.8693 fusionacademy.com • 847.295.4039
fusionacademy.com • 630.368.0824 gcelabschool.org • 312.643.0991 gemschicago.org • 312.809.8900
hydeparkday.org • 773.420.2550 hydeparkday.org • 630.296.1229 hydeparkday.org • 847.446.7025
lfanet.org • 847.615.3210 lfcds.org • 847.234.2350
latinschool.org • 312.582.6000
lyceechicago.org • 773.665.0066 mage.education • 312.600.5571
morganparkacademy.org • 773.881. 6700 nscds.org • 847.446.0674
psmnow.com • 773.722.4600
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COUNTY / CITY
SCHOOL
GRADES /GENDER
AFFILIATION
RATIO /ACCREDITATION
Roycemore School
Cook County, Evanston
PreK-12 Co-ed
Independent
6:1 ISACS, NAIS, LMAIS
The Chicago Academy for the Arts
West Town, Chicago
9-12 Co-ed
Independent (Arts focus)
4:1 ISACS, ISBE, NAIS, ASN, IHSA
The Chicago Grammar School
Cook County, Chicago
PreK-8 Co-ed
Independent
10:1
The Cove School
Cook County, Northbrook
K-12 Co-ed
Independent
4:1 ISBE
University of Chicago Laboratory Schools
Hyde Park, Chicago
Nursery-12 Co-ed
Independent (University focus)
8:1 CIS, ISACS
Wolcott School
West Town, Chicago
9-12 Co-ed
Independent
7:1, ISACS, NAIS, LMAIS, ISBE, IHSA, NACAC, IACAC
roycemoreschool.org • 847.866.6055 chicagoacademyforthearts.org • 312.421.0202 chicagogrammar.org • 312.944.5600 coveschool.org • 847.562.2100 ucls.uchicago.edu • 773.702.9450
wolcottschool.org • 312.610.4900
MONTESSORI COUNTY / CITY
SCHOOL
GRADES /GENDER
AFFILIATION
RATIO /ACCREDITATION
Beacon Academy
Cook County, Evanston
9-12 Co-ed
Montessori
IB, LMAIS, NAIS, ISACS
Brickton School
O’Hare, Chicago
Nursery, PreK-8 Co-ed
Montessori
AMS, LMAIS, AIMS, ISACS, NAIS, NCPSA, ISBE
Countryside Day School
Cook County, Northbrook
Toddler-8 Co-ed
Montessori
Toddler: 5:1, PreK-5 = 15:1, 6-8 = 20:1 AMI, ISACS, NAIS, ISBE
Forest Bluff School
Lake County, Lake Bluff
Nursery-8 Co-ed
Montessori
AMI, AIMS, NAMTA
Guidepost Montessori
Wicker Park, Chicago
PreK Co-ed
Montessori
Guidepost Montessori
West Loop, Chicago
Nursery-K Co-ed
Montessori
Guidepost Montessori
Old Town, Chicago
Nursery-K Co-ed
Montessori
North Shore Montessori (Deerfield)
Lake County, Deerfield
Nursery-6 Co-ed
Montessori
AMI, ISBE, AIMS
North Shore Montessori (Glenview)
Cook County, Northfield
Nursery-6 Co-ed
Montessori
AMI, ISBE, AIMS
North Shore Montessori (Riverwoods)
Lake County, Riverwoods
Nursery-12 Co-ed
Montessori
AMI, ISBE, AIMS
Ronald Knox Montessori
Cook County, Wilmette
Toddler-K Co-ed
Montessori
AMS, NAMTA, IMS, ICNS, AIMS
beaconacademyil.org • 224.999.1177 brickton.org • 773.714.9361 countrysideday.org • 847.498.1105
forestbluffschool.org • 847.295.8338 guidepostmontessori.com • 773.663.4732 guidepostmontessori.com • 312.883.4090 guidepostmontessori.com • 708.441.3831
montessori.schools.com • 847.945.8661
montessori.schools.com • 847.945.8661
montessori.schools.com • 847.945.8661 ronaldknox.org • 847.256.2922
For accreditation details, visit better.net
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No Tutors Needed. Rigorous academics are anchored by Learning Strategies — a class that teaches students how to understand content, build skills and create an action plan for effective study habits. Assignments. Deadlines. Learning. Nothing falls through the cracks. TM
Contact Rachel Spiro, Director of Admissions, to learn more about a school that gets it. rspiro@wolcottschool.org or 312/610-4900
wolcott college prep
Wolcott_0920_FNL.indd 1
524 North Wolcott Avenue Chicago, IL 60622
wolcottschool.org
8/31/20 1:37 PM
Our Lady of Perpetual Help School A Premier Private Education in the Finest Catholic Tradition
Voted BEST PRIVATE K-8 SCHOOL and BEST PRESCHOOL!
2020 WINNER FAITH • KNOWLEDGE • DISCIPLINE • SERVICE
Celebrating 90 Years of Catholic Education.
1123 Church Street • Glenview, Illinois 60025 • 847.724.6990 • olph-il.org
P R IVATE SC HOOL S
Woodlands Academy EMPOWERED GIRLS CHANGE THE WORLD! Through the transcendent power of relationship, Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart prepares each student to think more deeply, act more courageously, and grow more intentionally to enable her to confidently navigate the world as a powerful force for good. As a member of as worldwide network of Sacred Heart schools, Woodlands offers an education steeped in a global outlook with ties that span six continents. The school’s Center for Global Studies offers students unparalleled access to the world through international exchange, academic scholarship, and global travel. Every seat in a classroom, leadership position, and concert solo is held by a young woman who is learning in an atmosphere that is designed to empower her to lead, to compete, to engage, and to explore. Girls are front and center at Woodlands and the school fully lives the sentiment that empowered girls change the world. 760 E. Westleigh Road Lake Forest, IL
060-063 PSG.ADs.0920_v2.indd 60
847.234.4300 woodlandsacademy.org
9/11/20 11:47 AM
P R O M OT I O N
PR IVATE S CHOOLS
The Cove School CHANGING LIVES. BUILDING FUTURES. OPEN HOUSE - OCTOBER 14 (9:30 AM) Situated in Northbrook (30 min. from Chicago), The Cove School is a private K-12 day school. A national leader in learning disabilities and approved by ISBE (Illinois State Board of Education), Cove specializes in serving those with complex learning disabilities. Cove’s comprehensive clinical services are extraordinary and exceed what is possible in other environments. Working with parents, Cove assures the best individualized educational plan for your student. When students arrive, they feel safe yet challenged to reach their fullest potential. Cove recently upgraded its technology, facilities, and health and safety procedures for onsite instruction and synchronous live-streamed, highly interactive instruction for remote learning. Whether you choose in person or remote learning, the education at Cove is exceptional!
350 Lee Road Northbrook, IL
847.562.2100 coveschool.org
Baker Demonstration School AN EDUCATION THAT PUTS CHILDREN IN THE DRIVER’S SEAT. Our child-centered approach to learning ensures that each child, from preschool to middle school, is uniquely valued, supported and nurtured throughout their educational journey — creating expressive, compassionate students that are eager to help shape the world. Experiential learning has been at the heart of our approach for over 100 years. Baker alumni are successful in high school, college and beyond. Their achievements reaffirm our commitment to providing a progressive approach to education, one that harnesses the spark of your child’s imagination to power a lifetime of exploration, empathy and innovation. Our approach is designed not to prepare your child for just one path that leads into an uncertain future. At Baker, we are preparing children to lead with confidence, able to adapt to whatever life brings.
201 Sheridan Road Wilmette, IL
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847.425.5800 bakerdemschool.org
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PR IVATE S CHOOLS
P R O M OT I O N
Hyde Park Day School SERVING BRIGHT CHILDREN WITH LEARNING DISABILITIES Hyde Park Day School (HPDS) is the leading Chicagoarea, full-day grade school specializing in the needs of children of average to superior intelligence who have learning disabilities such as dyslexia and dyscalculia. The school currently supports students at three campuses: Chicago, Northfield and Lemont. Since its founding, HPDS has enabled 514 students to successfully transition back to schools in their home community. Our 5:1 student teacher ratio ensures that each child gets personalized attention and a customized program of academic support as well as Speech, Social Work, and Occupational Therapy. Hyde Park Day School is a Wilson® Accredited Partner, a status awarded by Wilson Language Training® (WLT). This status affirms that the school meets WLT’s standards for excellence in the delivery of Wilson® professional learning programs. 1980 Old Willow Road, Northfield, IL 13860 Main Street, Lemont, IL 6254 S. Ellis Ave, Chicago, IL
847.446.7025 hydeparkday.org
Regina Dominican High School BE BOLD. BE BRILLIANT. BE A REGINA DOMINICAN PANTHER. Regina Dominican, a college preparatory Catholic school for women, sponsored by the Adrian Dominican Sisters, fosters academic excellence, truth, peace and justice while challenging each student to develop leadership for life and respect for all races, cultures and faiths. With over 15 AP courses offered, 22 Fine Arts courses and 12 athletic teams, Regina Dominican Panthers are able to explore their passions and challenge themselves academically. With the support of our renowned faculty and staff, 100% of students are accepted into a 4-year college or university as well as 91% of students being accepted into their first choice school. We invite you and your daughter to discover the Regina difference by attending an Open House, scheduling a personalized tour or attending a special event!
701 Locust Road Wilmette, IL
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847.256.7660 rdhs.org
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P R O M OT I O N
PR IVATE S CHOOLS
Sacred Heart Schools A REMARKABLE EDUCATION COMES FROM THE HEART
Sacred Heart is a Catholic, independent PK-8 school that warmly welcomes students of all faiths into a joyful and loving community. Founded in 1876, Sacred Heart Schools is Chicago’s oldest independent school. We are also part of an international network of Sacred Heart schools, with 22 schools in the United States and more than 150 globally. Our approach to education combines a dynamic and challenging curriculum within a nurturing environment. Our exceptional teachers and staff inspire students to achieve their best and be their best selves. We are guided by five timeless principles: faith, intellect, service, community, and personal growth. Our students graduate with a strong academic foundation, as well as confidence and values—ready to leave a positive mark on their communities and in the city’s best high schools. Approximately 95% of our 8th grade students are accepted to their first-choice high school. To learn more about Sacred Heart Schools, please join us for a Virtual Information Session. Zoom into an hourlong program with our Head of Schools, Director of Curriculum and Instruction, and current parents. You are also welcome to take a personalized virtual tour of our campus with a member of our Admissions Team. To register for a Virtual Information Session or schedule a Virtual Talk and Tour, please contact the Admissions Office at 773.681.8494 or admissions@shschicago.org. We hope you can visit us virtually this fall!
6250 N. Sheridan Road Chicago, IL
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773.681.8494 shschicago.org
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A SCHOOL THAT
CHALLENGES A SCHOOL THAT
CARES
SMALL CLASS SIZES DIFFERENTIATED CURRICULUM SPACIOUS URBAN CAMPUS
Rigorous education. A culture of kindness.
Discover us at
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PHOTO CREDIT
A stunning custom build in Glencoe, plus the latest trends in home design B E T T E R FA L L 2 0 2 0 6 5
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SPACE S
This page: A pair of nineteenth-century doors from a French chateau adds a rustic sensibility to the master suite. The tub is by Kohler from Studio 41. Opposite page: A pair of hammered polished-nickel pendants illuminate the quartzite island countertop in the spacious kitchen. The reclaimed elm table is from Clubcu, and the chairs are from Design Within Reach.
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DREAM Team
JUBILANT ABOUT THEIR FIRST HOUSE PROJECT TOGETHER, BARRY AND NATALIE SLOTNICK ONCE AGAIN ENGAGE SCOTT SIMPSON DESIGN + BUILD TO BRING THEIR VISION TO LIFE. B Y TAT E G U N N E R S O N • P H O T O S B Y S T O F F E R P H O T O G R A P H Y
BUILDING A CUSTOM HOUSE FROM THE GROUND UP IS NOT FOR THE FAINT OF HEART, BUT GLENCOE RESIDENTS, Barry and Natalie Slotnick, have done it twice in the last decade—not to mention a major remodel of an Evanston bungalow 16 years ago. “Design is my hobby and passion,” says Natalie, a former Spanish teacher turned interior designer. “I never intended to turn it into a business, but it sort of fell in my lap.”
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The couple hadn’t planned to relocate so soon from their first major build—a LEED Platinum house by Scott Simpson Design + Build—but when an environmentally conscious couple made them an offer they couldn’t refuse, they moved into a rental and began looking for a lot. Ultimately, they selected a lush property overlooking a
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ravine just steps away from Lake Michigan. Pleased with their first project together, they once again turned to Scott Simpson Design + Build to build their new abode—a contemporary stucco-clad manse with tons of black aluminum-framed windows and a standing seam metal roof. According to Scott Simpson, the designbuild process requires all parties to be involved and pulling in the same direction from the getgo. “I’m not sure we can say who authored each idea,” he says. “We’re all at the table throwing ideas around at every meeting. That’s what’s interesting, fun and challenging about our process.” To prepare the land for construction, the builders carefully deconstructed the existing house piece by piece, repurposing as much as possible. “Barry wanted it to be as green and eco-friendly as possible,” says firm partner, Tom Kenny. Indeed, they insulated the entire house from top to bottom and used as many reclaimed materials as possible. The oak floors throughout, for example, are salvaged timbers. And reclaimed beams from a barn in Wisconsin adorn the ceiling in the family room. Siting the house on the atypically shaped lot was challenging, says firm architect Amy Mangold, noting that building must be set back so far from the ravine. In response to the site, she placed the guest suite on an angle from the main house, connecting them via a long mudroom. “This house is like a bearhug,” she says. “It feels very gracious and welcoming, which is not the easiest thing to achieve when the architecture is so restrained.” The result of months of meetings, the interior is just as warm and welcoming. In the front foyer, a grass cloth wall covering by Phillip Jeffries reflects the abundant natural daylight. It complements the silk wallcovering in the adjacent dining area, where Slotnick incorporated a table by Christian Liaigre surrounded by custom chairs. A 1940s-era chandelier calls attention to the ceiling, which is covered in
gilded cork by Thibaut. The palette takes a turn in Natalie’s office, which has black molded walls—a graphic backdrop for a curvaceous sofa by Vladimir Kagan and a pair of brass side tables that play off the tiered chandelier. From her iron desk with a chagrin top, she can take in the view of the ravine through the floor-to-ceiling windows. “The landscape is the focal point,” Natalie says. That’s also the case in the spacious kitchen, where custom white-painted cabinetry juxtaposes a black island with a thick Iceberg Maxwell quartzite underneath a pair of hammered polished-nickel pendants. In between a pair of doors that open to the back patio, a cozy built-in banquette and a set of wishbone chairs by Hans Wegner from Design Within Reach surround a handmade table made of reclaimed elm from Clubcu. The white hues flow into the open living area, which is furnished with tailored pieces covered in durable, yet elegant fabric around a
steel cocktail table. A pair of juju hats Natalie picked up while on safari in South Africa add texture and interest. “I love to pull things together from different vendors and places,” Natalie says. “It gives space an eclectic, unique feel. Nothing is off limits.” For example, look no f ur ther than the light-filled master suite, where a pair of early nineteenth-century doors from a French chateau open to the ensuite bathroom, perfectly framing a soaker tub in front of the windows. Particularly during this time of social distancing, the couple and their two children can often be found on the spacious bluestone patio, which was beautifully landscaped by Midwest Arbor. The space boasts both living and dining areas and a fire pit overlooking the ravine. Eager to maintain activities during the fall, the BETTER AT HOME: For hot properties, design inspirationand more, visit better.net/chicago/homes.
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PHOTO CREDIT
Opposite: Brass library fixtures illuminate the black-painted shelves in the moody office. This page: (Clockwise from top left) Exterior of house; Lights from Restoration Hardware lead the way through the mudroom to the guest suite, which is located on an angle from the main house; Classic subway tile has been reimagined in the 14-year-old son’s bathroom. The brass light is from West Elm; A collection of vintage Rolling Stones concert posters enliven the neutral walls in the stairway.
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Shades of
WHITE
FROM CREAMY AND WARM TO COOL AND IRIDESCENT, THE COLOR FOR ALL SEASONS REPRESENTS BEGINNING ANEW. BY LISA B OQUIREN
004 SCULPTURAL CONSOLE TABLE
by Casey McCafferty is designed and hand-carved in Los Angeles. Shown in white-washed ash, also available in ebonized ash. $10,625 at coupdetat sf.com 415.241.9300 TOBIA WALL LAMP
by Ferruccio Laviani for Foscarini is made in Italy from liquid-coated metal and aluminum. $902-$1,175 at luminaire.com (Chicago) 312.664.9582 STELLA COSMOS
by Design for Macha is a large-scale ceiling lamp, handmade in Italy in brass with blown Murano glass. $7,200 lunaria.us 415.461.0588 ORO BIANCO 4-DOOR BUFFET
Made in NYC, this wood and glass piece sits atop a hand-forged metal base in natural steel finish. Price upon request at ercolehome.com 212.675.2218 7 0 FA L L 2 0 2 0 B E T T E R
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Shapes of
METAL SCIENCE AND DESIGN TRANSFORM RAW MATERIALS INTO REFINED OBJECTS OF BEAUTY.
GRAND QUARTZ designed and manufactured in Burlingame, CA, by David Copello Guild features hand-finished, solid brass construction with real quartz points. Price upon request hewnsf.com 415.962.7833 POMMER PENDANT designed by Matthew Fairbank and made in Brooklyn,
NY, features a brushed brass shade, satin brass accents and black ebonized walnut top. $3,300 at ateliergarylee.com (Chicago) 312.644.4400 OPAL BUD VASE by Stephen Serra is machined from a block of aluminum
alloy. $550 (Flower not included) at sloanm.com 415.431.1465 COLUMN TABLE II by Tom Corbin for Corbin Bronze is made in the USA and features a light golden brown patina. $4,970 hollyhunt.com (Chicago) 800.446.1313 LINHA DINING TABLE by Studio MK27 for Minotti features a marble top on a frame with matte black, lacquered-finish aluminum sides and bronzed satin copper finish. Price upon request at arksf.com 415.565.7200
PHOTO CREDIT
BETTER SPACES: For more home decor and design inspiration, expert advice from industry leaders, and stunning pieces by local artisans, visit spacesmag.com.
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Destinations
T H E L AT E ST LO C A L T R AV E L D E A L S A N D G E TAWAYS PLU S J O U R N E YS A RO U N D T H E G LO B E
OUTWARD BOUND As fall’s spectacular colors roll in, it's the perfect time to lace up those hiking boots and explore the great outdoors. If you’re like most of us, you are well and truly tired of staying at home. But, you also recognize that it’s just not safe to do all of your favorite urban activities. Enter hiking, the perfect socially distant way to get out and get active during a gorgeous time of year. Here, we’re highlighting seven exhilarating hikes that are easily accessible from Chicago and the surrounding suburbs. Just make sure to always wear your mask around other happy hikers!
MIGUEL BANDEIRA
BY JESSICA SUSS
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The 606 Trail (aka the Bloomingdale Trail) Length: 5.7-mile loop Dogs: Yes, leashed Difficulty: Easy Location: Downtown, near Walsh Park This loop is right in the city, so it might be more crowded than other, out-of-the-way spots. Make sure to keep your mask on if you can’t keep 6 feet of distance between you and other walkers. Technically, this is still in the city of Chicago, and it’s more of a walk than a hike. But hey, we don’t judge! This trail was built on an abandoned train line, so it gives you incredible city views as you wind your way around the 5.7-mile loop. It’s a great spot for both walkers and runners, and even features a rubberized running surface. There are a number of access points for the trail, and the fun city views and easy trail make it perfect for a family outing or just a quick walk.
Des Plaines River Trail Length: 15.4 miles, point to point Dogs: Yes, leashed Difficulty: Easy Location: Trailheads at Allison Woods Trail (Northfield) and Sunset Bridge Meadow Trail (River Grove) This section of trail is actually part of the far larger Des Plaines River Trail (56.2 miles), but it’s the most easily accessible from the 'burbs and downtown— you can even take public transportation (either the bus or the Blue Line) to get to the trailheads. This gentle trail is very flat and wide, making it perfect for running or biking if plain old walking isn’t your thing. Enjoy the forest preserves and natural wetlands that surround the trail, and say "Aahhhh."
Matthiessen State Park
Make a Night of It
If you’re looking for more than just a day trip, check out Hipcamp (hipcamp.com). The app and website, which has been called “the Airbnb of camping,” was started by California native Alyssa Ravasio and offers various outdoor and camping options at more than 300,000 sites across the country. Private landowners can list their property for camping, glamping, or RV space for users to book based on a variety of factors including listing type, location, landscape, activities offered, and amenities. The site also includes user reviews and photos of public campgrounds in national parks. Learn more about Hipcamp and read our interview with Ravasio at better.net/ hipcamp.
a river, a waterfall, and gorgeous canyons and rock formations. This hike is a little bit more challenging (you’ll have to actually walk up a hill—a rarity in Illinois) and there are some rocky sections of the trail where you’ll need to walk carefully, especially in wet weather. Pro tip: Bring some binoculars—Starved Rock State Park is home to several bald eagle families.
TOP: MATTHIESSEN STATE PARK; BOTTOM LEFT: GABE POPA
Ryerson Conservation Park
Starved Rock Loop Length: 5.1-mile loop Dogs: Yes, leashed Difficulty: Intermediate Location: Deer Park Starved Rock is no secret among the outdoorsy set in Chicago. This gorgeous little loop features rolling hills,
Length: 6.5 miles Dogs: Yes, leashed Difficulty: Easy/Intermediate Location: Riverwoods This pretty little escape through Ryerson Woods feels light years removed from city life, and sections of the trail wind right alongside the banks of the Des Plaines River. You can forge your own route through 561 acres of land via a variety of winding options. Trails can get muddy and sloppy after wet weather, so leave your white sneakers at home.
Length: 5.8 miles Dogs: Yes, leashed Difficulty: Intermediate Location: Utica This is a little bit further afield, but it’s worth the trek to see the variety of canyons, streams, and untouched forest area in this enormous state park. Don’t miss the gorgeous lookout points over the Vermillion River and waterfalls. The best part of the trail is arguably the sandstone canyon, which you can reach on your 5.8-mile hike (it’s a little hilly and can get muddy, but it’s not overly challenging). Feel free to cool off under the chilly cascades of water if you get overheated during your hike.
Hollows Conservation Area Length: 3.6-mile loop Dogs: Yes, leashed Difficulty: Easy Location: Cary This is a pretty darn easy trail, but what really stands out about it is the opportunity for more than just hiking—those among us who enjoy kayaking and fishing will love Lake Atwood, which is stocked every year with bluegill, largemouth bass, and rainbow trout (you can also go ice fishing here in the winter months if that’s your jam). The trail itself is gently rolling and alternates between crushed limestone and a dirt track. Spend a pleasant day wending your way through open, grassy areas and into wetlands and forests.
Indiana Dunes State Park Length: Varied Dogs: Yes, leashed Difficulty: Intermediate/Challenging Location: Chesterton, Indiana You’ll need to cross the border into Indiana for this one, so ensure that there aren’t any new travel restrictions in place before you go. Try the West Beach 3-Loop, a 3.5-mile round trip that offers stunning views of the Chicago skyline as you traverse enormous sand dunes. Or, try one of the park’s other offerings, including the West Beach Trail, Ridge Hollow Loop, Cowles Bog Loop (the most difficult of the three), or the Ly-co-ki-we Trail. You can see everything from the skyline to the dunes to boggy wetlands and a wide variety of waterfowl and other wildlife. BETTER FITNESS: From at-home workouts to virtual races, follow the latest health and fitness trends at better.net/life/fitness.
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Out & About
A R O U N D U P O F T H E H O T T E S T L O C A L E V E N T S , V I R T U A L G AT H E R I N G S A N D P L A C E S T O E AT A N D D R I N K
Raise a Glass
It’s true—2020 hasn’t given us much to toast about. Luckily, despite the cancelation of Oktoberfest celebrations around the world, local breweries are still churning out brews worthy of a big “Cheers!” at home. KARL KLOCKARS
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Out & About / DRINK 2020 IS THE FIRST year without an Oktoberfest in Munich since World War II, and similar celebrations have been postponed or canceled across the U.S. This means that if you want the experience of sitting in a tent and ingesting liter after liter of German-style lager, you’re on your own. (And good luck finding a 30-piece band to play a tuba version of “Take Me Home, Country Roads” every hour.)
Those are wonderful, but don’t let tradition get in the way of the golden Festbier, which is now the official style of the fest (as of 1990) that’s a bit brighter, easier to drink, and a bit lighter on ABV—so you can drink more of it for longer. So strap on your lederhosen, grab a manhole-cover-sized pretzel and get to work— it’s going to be tough to drink the 7-million liters of beer that Munich goes through each year, but let’s give it a shot.
ALTER FESTBIER Owner Mark Hedrick describes Oktoberfest beers as “the hoodie/short combo of the beer world,” slightly warming but still up for some mild fall days. 6-packs available at both locations, (St. Charles and Downers Grove), $10.99; alterbrewing.com GOLDFINGER BREWING This new all-lager brewery wanted to do their Oktoberfest the true traditional way, so they made it their third beer ever brewed back in April and lagered all summer. Draft only at their new taproom (513 Rogers St, Downers Grove); gold fingerbrewing.com. HALF ACRE LAGERTOWN One of Chicago’s oldest breweries has one of the
most under-the-radar Oktoberfests. Look for some honey sweetness on top of a spicy rye-bread kick. 4-packs of 16oz. cans available for pickup at 2050 W. Balmoral, Chicago, $9.99; halfacrebeer.com HAYMARKET FEST BIER Another true traditional take on the classic German style, Haymarket’s Fest Bier is perfect for some socially distanced drinking in Randolph Street’s pedestrian spaces. $9.99 per 6-pack of 12oz cans available at the brewpub (737 W. Randolph); haymarketbeer.com. PIPEWORKS OKTOBERFEST Pipeworks is known to throw just about everything you can imagine
into a beer (and some things you can’t), so the most surprising part about this festbier is just how traditional and respectful it is of one of brewing’s oldest traditions. Releasing early September in 4-packs of 16oz cans; $12.99 at the Dojo (3912 McLean Ave, Chicago); pdubs.net POLLYANNA BREWING’S FRUHAUF In the past decade, only one brewery from Illinois has taken home a medal from the Great American Beer Fest for their traditional German-style marzen. This one. Available for pickup at all three Pollyanna locations (Lemon, Roselle, St. Charles) in 4-packs of 16oz cans, $12.00; polly annabrewing.com
ONLY CHILD’S O.C.TOBEREST This is the second year for Only Child’s festbier, and the first year it’ll hit taproom shelves in cans. Get there quick— they said this was the fastest beer release they’d ever seen when it came out originally. 4-packs of 16oz cans are $13 at the taproom (1350 Tri State Pkwy, #124, Gurnee); onlychildbrewing.com
ADAMS STREET OKTOBERFEST As the house brewery inside Chicago’s famed Berghoff restaurant, it makes sense that they’d have their own special Oktoberfest… but it may be the hardest one to get this year. Why? With the restaurant temporarily closed, the only place to get it is their location at O’Hare Airport. Draft only, Terminal 1, Concourse C. Plane ticket required; adamsstreetbrewery.com
BETTER BEER: On Nov. 10, join the Executives’ Club of Chicago and hear from Anheuser-Busch CEO Michel Doukeris about the brewing giant’s journey through the challenges of 2020. For a registration link, visit better.net/ executivesclub and use the code BETTERBEER for $10 off your registration.
ALTER BREWING
There are actually two kinds of fest-based beers that emerge around this time of year. You’re probably most familiar with the traditional Marzen amber lager, the toasty, sweet, caramelbread-pudding-y, slightly spicy version that was served for over a century at the fest.
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TOP: DRY CITY BREW WORKS; BOTTOM: MORE BREWING COMPANY
We have good news, though—there are plenty of locally produced festbiers around Chicagoland to help fill the void. (Take that, now-nearly-non-existent pumpkin beer.)
S P OT L I G H T
BLACK IS BEAUTIFUL Beer isn’t always the answer to life’s problems, but sometimes it can help in unexpected ways. BY KARL KLOCKARS
After the murder of George Floyd in Minneapolis, Marcus Baskerville, founder and head brewer of Weathered Souls Brewing Company in Austin, TX, wondered what he could do to help. Enter the “Black is Beautiful” beer collaboration. What started as a single beer recipe has become a collaboration of more than 1,000 breweries across the country to help raise funds for police brutality reform and to increase awareness of the daily injustices faced by the BIPOC population. Dozens of Chicago-area brewerie s have signed on to lend a hand and brew their own version of the Black Is Beautiful stout and to donate 100% of proceeds donated to a deserving nonprofit. Each brewery is encouraged to take the basic recipe and get creative with it, so that each brew showcases one of the many different shades of black and brown that a beer can take. Here’s a look at some of the participating local breweries, the unique approach they’ve taken with their own Black Is Beautiful beer, and the organization they’re supporting with the proceeds.
TOP: DRY CITY BREW WORKS; BOTTOM: MORE BREWING COMPANY
ALTER BREWING
DRY CITY BREW WORKS, WHEATON Blackberry stout Proceeds benefit: My Block My Hood My City. drycitybrewworks.com ELMHURST BREWING, ELMHURST Standard stout Proceeds benefit: MBMHMC and the Chicago Urban League elmhurstbrewing company.com KINSLAHGER BREWING COMPANY, OAK PARK “Tropical stout” Proceeds benefit: Chicago Lawyers’ Committee for Civil Rights kinslahger.com
LIQUID LOVE BREWING, BUFFALO GROVE Imperial Stout brewed with cacao nibs, vanilla and Smuggler’s coffee Proceeds benefit: Know Your Rights Camp liquidlovebrewing.com MIDWEST COAST BREWING, CHICAGO Oatmeal stout Proceeds benefit: Mothers Against Senseless Killings and Breakthrough midwestcoast brewing.com MISKATONIC BREWING COMPANY, DARIEN Imperial stout aged in Heaven Hill and Jim Beam barrels Proceeds benefit: NAACP Legal Defense
and Educational Fund miskatonicbrewing.com MORE BREWING COMPANY, VILLA Park & Huntley “Vanilla latte” stout with Ethiopian coffee and Ugandan vanilla beans Proceeds benefit: Chicago Freedom School morebrewing.com SKELETON KEY BREWING, WOODRIDGE Imperial stout with sweet plantains, milk sugar and toasted coconut Proceeds benefit: MBMHMC and the Center for Black Equity skeletonkeybrewery.com
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Calendar
T H E L AT E S T H A P P E N I N G S T H I S FA L L
EDITED BY MADISON MULLER
ILFriendstheexperience .com/chicago
Fall in Chicago: a time for Hocus Pocus reruns, pumpkin-spice everything and some of our most beloved events, like the Chicago Marathon and Chicago Humanities Festival. And, fortunately, as we all have learned to adjust to life during the pandemic—so have many of Chicago’s events. Some have transitioned online, while others are able to operate, with precautions in place, in accordance with CDC/IDPH guidelines. So, throw on your itchiest fall sweater, grab a crisp cider and enjoy! THRU OCT 13 Apple Picking at Apple Holler Apple Holler has become the Chicagoland destination for all things apple: pie, caramel-covered, wine, apparel, and top-notch Apple Cider Donuts, plus acres of pick-your-own orchards. 5006 S. Sylvania Ave, Sturtevant, WI 53177 262.884.7100. appleholler.com
voices via policy change, advocacy, media, storytelling and film. Their flagship event, The International Social Change Film Festival (ChangeFest), is virtual this year and will feature art, music, speakers and films focused on improving the social realities for communities of color. socialchange.site
leaders from politics, the arts, science and beyond to discuss what it means to have a vision—for oneself, country, the world, or the future in general. Here’s a can’tmiss speaker and event; access the full list on their website.
SEPT. 26 – OCT. 24 Change Fest Virtual Film Festival Social Change seeks to disrupt unjust systems and uplift community
THROUGH NOV. 22 Chicago Humanities Festival + Digital Celebration This year’s theme is “Vision” and will bring together
OCT. 20 Digital Celebration 2020 Their Annual Fall Gala will also be held in a digital format. This year’s celebration, held on
OCT. 14 Peniel E. Joseph on Malcolm X and Martin Luther King Jr.
Oct. 20, will honor Liz Glassman, president and CEO of the Chicagobased Terra Foundation for American Art. It is free and open to the public online. chicagohumanities.org OPENS OCT. 1 The FRIENDS Experience Friends fans, rejoice! While we may not be getting the much anticipated remake anytime soon, devoted fans can relive their favorite scenes with set recreations and real props from the show. 540 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago
OCT. 1 – OCT. 18 Beatrix Potter and Friends Outdoor Screening The Chicago Children’s Theatre will turn its West Loop parking lot into a drive-in theatre experience, with the debut of its perennial favorite, “Beatrix Potter and Friends.” The show has been re-created with social distancing and an outdoor movie setting in mind. Tickets are $45/ car (up to six people) or $45 for a socially distant “pod.” 100 S. Racine St., Chicago 312.374.8835 chicagochildrens theatre.org OCT. 5 – OCT. 11 2020 Bank of America Chicago Marathon Virtual Experience One of Chicago’s biggest and most inspirational events of the year, the Chicago Marathon is still happening—virtually. They’ll even be offering shorter distances this year! chicagomarathon.com OCT. 14 – OCT. 25 56th Chicago International Film Festival North America’s longest-running competitive film festival, the Chicago International Film Festival was founded in 1964 to provide an alternative to the commercial Hollywood movies dominating the box office. They are committed to producing their 56th annual festival this October, and are monitoring Covid-19
updates and restrictions accordingly. 212 W. Van Buren St., Chicago 312.683.0121 chicagofilmfestival.com OCT. 16 What’s Fair? Restoring Progress at Home and at Work Amid COVID For many professional working mothers, sheltering in place has meant working full time, home schooling their children and bearing the brunt of parenting duties—all while fearing the loss of their jobs. Join Eve Rodsky, best-selling author of Fair Play, and The Executives’ Club of Chicago President and CEO Margaret Mueller for a powerful conversation on how women can reach their full potential. Virtual event. Registration info plus more on other exciting upcoming Executives’ Club programming at better.net/executivesclub OCT. 16 – OCT. 25 Open House Chicago Always one of the highlights of the season, Open House Chicago is a celebration of architecturally, culturally and historically significant sites across Chicago’s many neighborhoods. This fall, in-person and remote experiences will feature an intentional focus on the city’s South and West Sides. Various locations/Virtual openhousechicago.org OCT. 17 2020 James W. Foley Freedom Run The James W. Foley Foundation’s 6th Annual Freedom Run is going virtual
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HIGHLIGHTS
Editors' Pick: Ways to Give Back This Fall this year. It is a day to remember Jim, who was killed while reporting abroad, and to support the foundation’s mission to advocate for the freedom of Americans held hostage abroad and to promote the safety of journalists worldwide. jamesfoley foundation.org OCT. 21 Invest for Kids Invest for Kids will host their 12th annual investment conference, where top investment managers share their market views and best investable ideas. Co-founders underwrite all of the conference expenses so that all proceeds from the event can go to selected nonprofit organizations serving Chicago-area youth in underserved communities. investforkidschicago.org OCT. 24 Susan G. Komen Virtual Race for the Cure One of the biggest annual events for breast cancer survivors and supporters, Chicago’s local Race for the Cure is going virtual this year. Ww5.komen .org/raceforthecure OCT. 31 Halloween At time of publication, the fate of Halloween and trick-or-treating in Chicago is still unclear. To prepare for the possibility of a virtual or socially distanced Halloween with the kiddos, here are some ideas to check out.
Treat Town App From candy connoisseurs, Mars Wrigley, comes the first virtual trickor-treating experience. Decorate a virtual door, create spooky monster avatars and invite neighbors to join in the fun. Sign up at treattown.com or through the TREAT TOWN Halloween App. Spirit Halloween Social Distancing Costumes From hazmat suit costumes to a wider range of inflatable costumes, Spirit Halloween is providing automatic social distancing options for trick-or-treaters. There are also new treat bags that dangle from an outstretched plastic hand at the end of a stick, so that kids can maintain a 6-foot distance while reaching for candy. spirithalloween.com Trick-or-Treat for Unicef Starting Oct. 1, teachers and parents are encouraged to register children and create profiles online where they will receive a Virtual Collection Box and customized QR code. Children can earn trick-or-treat coins that add up to real-life earnings. As they collect the coins, they will be able to choose where they want them to go—giving them the power to impact other children around the world. unicefusa.org
BETTER : FUgit, unt. esevents sitassiand nciatur? BETTER ?PLANS For theIbus latest local highIt hillit visit hicae nit lati nonsed qui odi quo venimi, sunt lights, better.net/chicago/arts-events
OCT. 2 Brushwood Center Smith Nature Symposium: ThriveTogether Throughout August and into September Brushwood is hosting a series of talks culminating in a livestreamed awards ceremony honoring Bill McKibben and Sue Halpern. Donna La Pietra and Bill Kurtis will emcee and this year’s theme is “Thrive Together: A More Just and SustainablecFuture.” brushwoodcenter.org OCT. 4 Virtual North Shore Senior Center Gala 2020: Unmasked Watch the North Shore Senior Center’s annual gala from the comfort of your own home. Featuring compelling stories and entertainment, like a performance from Ann Hampton Callaway, the gala is sure to be a hit. nssc.org. OCT. 6 Chicago History Museum: 26th Annual Making History Awards The Chicago History Museum’s Making History Awards have honored 113 Chicagoans and thirteen Chicago companies whose contributions to art and culture, sports, business and civic life have made Chicago a more vibrant place to live. For more information and a list of
this year’s seven honorees, visit chicago history.org. OCT. 17 Deeply Rooted 25th Anniversary Season On October 17, Deeply Rooted Dance Theater (DRDT) launches its 25th season with a virtual fundraiser featuring a cinematic history of DRDT, video highlights of past performances, interviews that illuminate the company’s founding and inspiration and their plans for the future. It will also include a silent auction during the film’s intermission. Tickets for the full evening at $150 and GA is $25. deeplyrooteddance theater.org. OCT. 17 Field Museum Virtual Gala This year’s virtual gala will begin at 5:30 p.m. and will honor Connie an Dennis Keller with the Marshall Field V Award for Distinguished Leadership. Proceeds from the event will support the Field Museum’s continued impact as a research, conservation and education leader in Chicago and around the world. pjhchicago.com/ events/thefield museum
OCT. 21 YMCA Metro Chicago Recognition Dinner The YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago will host its 7th Annual Recognition Dinner to honor the people, the purpose and the passion that drives their mission. This year, especially, the Y honors the people that helped as Chicago was hit with the Covid-19 pandemic. ymcachicago.org OCT. 26 Virtual Midtown Education Center 29th Annual Reach for Excellence Awards Dinner This year’s awards will honor John J. Conroy, Jr., principal and former global chair of Baker McKenzie, and Harry M. Jansen Kraemer, executive partner of Madison Dearborn Partners and a professor at Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management.mid town-metro.org OCT. 28 The Chicago Council on Global Affairs 2020 Global Leadership Awards The council’s annual Global Leadership Awards honor the outstanding achievements of individuals in international relations, global thought leadership and philanthropy. This year’s awards will honor
leaders advancing equity in global health and safety and will celebrate the Council’s commitment to a more inclusive, equitable and secure world. globalleadership award.org NOV. 11 4th Annual Above and Beyond Family Recovery Center: Redefining Recovery Virtual Event The virtual “Redefining Recovery” One Night Gala will feature inspiring stories from recent program graduates, speeches from their founder and Johann Hari, author of two New York Times bestselling books. anb.today/2020-gala NOV. 8 St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital Hot Chocolate Virtual 15K/5K America’s sweetest race is back, but this year they’ve gone virtual. And no need to worry, racers will still receive hot chocolate in their race packs! This year’s official charity partner is St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, so proceeds from the Hot Chocolate run will help support their efforts to end childhood cancer. hotchocolate15k.com/ chicago
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Better Makers
R ECO G N I Z I N G C H I C AG O ’ S E V E RY DAY H E R O E S A N D T H E I R I N C R E D I B L E I M PAC T
EDITED BY MADISON MULLER
• MY BLOCK
MY HOOD MY CITY From Aug.
9 through Aug. 16, My Block My Hood My City Virtual 5K took runners on a journey through Chicago’s neighborhoods. Runners could choose one of 10 groups to run with through a randomly assigned neighborhood and were provided route maps and suggested run times specific to the neighborhoods. All participants received a 2020 Neighborhoods 5K race tee and medal.
• GREATER CHICAGO FOOD DEPOSITORY Founded as the first food bank in Illinois, the Greater Chicago Food Depository works tirelessly to help Cook County residents of all ages, races and backgrounds overcome food insecurity and hunger. In the last 40 years, this nonprofit has grown to meet changing needs, becoming the hub for a network comprised of more than 700 pantries, soup kitchens, shelters and programs that share a common goal: make nourishing food accessible. This year, more older adults, working families, and children in Cook County are facing the dire reality of hunger in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. This past summer, Better provided the Matching Grant for the Greater Chicago Food Depository’s COVID-19 Response Campaign. Every dollar donated was matched—up to $25,000—to help provide meals and hope throughout Chicago. The Matching Grant campaign inspired more than 1,000 gifts, totaling $169,000 in revenue and helping them to surpass their goal of $50,000. chicagosfoodbank.org
PHOTOS COURTESY OF EACH ORGANIZATION.
formyblock.org
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PHOTOS COURTESY OF EACH ORGANIZATION.
• MUSIC INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO The Music Institute of Chicago (MIC), which will celebrate its 90th anniversary in 2021, has found that even in the pandemic, the community sees MIC as something very special and wants their music lessons and recitals to continue. The school continues to operate and the familiar faces of MIC’s teachers are valued, even when the lessons and classes are delivered via interactive videoconferencing. In addition, they are working hard to continue to support faculty and staff. To help meet the responsibility, the executive committee of the board of trustees created the Nichols COVID-19 Support Fund. MIC is indescribably grateful to Alexandra Nichols, who started the fund with a leadership gift of $1,000,000. To help donations go further, Susan and Nick Noyes offered $10,000 towards a matching grant campaign, which has raised more than $123,000. musicinst.org
• THE ROTARY CLUB OF EVANSTON The Rotary Club of Evanston formally celebrated its 100th birthday with an online gala and fundraising event May 1, 2020. A full recording of the event is available on their Facebook page: Rotary Club of Evanston. Club members and supporters from all over the world tuned into this year’s gala, which included remarks from Rotary International President Mark Maloney and Jennifer Jones, a member of Rotary International’s Board of Directors and the event’s emcee. More than $25,000 was raised to benefit the club’s efforts. During the event they also launched a new award honoring long-time club member and former Evanston Chief of Police Bill Logan. For more information visit their Facebook page. MAKE IT BETTER For more inspiring success stories, matching grant opportunities, deserving nonprofits to support, and easy ways you can help those in need right now, visit better.net/chicago/philanthropy.
• GIRLS IN THE GAME: Girls in the Game is an organization dedicated to helping every girl to find her voice, discover her strength and lead with confidence through fun and active sports, health and leadership programs. And despite the unusual challenge Covid-19 presented to their programming and fundraising tactics, they managed to expand their impact. Working with board members, long-time supporters and program alumni, they created the #StayInTheGame campaign, which raised $20,000 and became the largest peer-topeer campaign they’ve ever done. The money raised allowed them to keep their coaches on staff to lead virtual programming not only through the end of the school year, but also during the summer. And because they pivoted to online programming, girls from around the country could take part. Over the summer, Better teamed up with Girls in the Game, one of our Philanthropy Award Winners, to help amplify their impact. A social media campaign invited participants to complete and post their at-home Olympic-inspired activities using the hashtag #2020ChicagoOlympics. For each post, Better donated $50 to Girls in the Game. Next on the horizon is their 21st Annual Chip in for Girls Golf Outing that will take place on Sept. 22. girlsinthegame.org B E T T E R FA L L 2 0 2 0 81
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The Bright Side
“When you reach the end of your rope, tie a knot in it and hang on.”
–FR ANKLIN D. ROOSEVELT
We’re more than six months into the Covid-19 crisis and we are continuously amazed and inspired by how our community has come together to support one another. Local businesses, especially restaurants and the arts and entertainment industry, have been some of the hardest hit financially. But, through it all, they have found ways to persevere, stay in business and give back to others. They are our beacon of hope, our bright side in these tumultuous times.
FROM TOP LEFT: ARLEN MUSIC PRODUCTIONS, THE FLOWER SHOP OF GLENCOE, THE BOOK BIN, HESTER PAINTING & DECORATING, ELISE BRILL, NICK’S WILMETTE, SUNDA, TWIST OUT CANCER, TEMPERANCE BREWING.
Ref lections
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Three Generations Expertly Guiding All Your Chicago Moves
With 1,400+ transactions, and a billion dollars in sales the Ballis Group is here to help with every type of move. From first time home buyers to multigenerational homeowners looking to move to the city, they have done it all. With a combined 65+ years of real estate knowledge, the Ballis Group is your trusted team for your every move.
info@ballisgroup.com 312. 210.9797
Ballis Group is a team of Real Estate agents affiliated with Compass. Compass is a licensed Real Estate broker and abides by federal, state and local Equal Housing Opportunity laws. 2350 N Lincoln Ave floor 3, Chicago, IL 60614.
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S I M P L Y E XQ U I S I T E
S I M P LY T H E B E ST O F T H E N O RT H S H O R E .
C e l e b ra t i n g 4 5 Ye a rs O n T h e N o r t h S h o re ! Escape cabin fever, get out and explore everything the Lincolnshire Marriott Resort has to offer. Enjoy 175 acres of outdoor fun plus luxurious accommodations, farm-fresh dining, and championship golf. Make your next adventure Simply Spectacular with uniquely tailored getaway packages. • Craft beer and casual fare at Wright’s Brew & Bistro • 18-hole, par 70, Crane’s Landing Golf Course • Home to the legendary Marriott Theatre • Relax and unwind at The Spa at Lincolnshire* • World-class dining and locally sourced ingredients at Three Embers Restaurant* • Outdoor recreation including hiking, biking, and snowshoeing *These outlets will be open in 2021
MARRIOTT.COM/CHILN 10 MARRIOTT DRIVE, LINCOLNSHIRE, IL 60069 847.634.0100
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