Make It Better October 2013

OCTOBER 2013

D I G I TAL E D I T I ON

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SNEAK PEEK AT THE TECH MAMMA LOUNGE WISCONSIN TRAVEL: THE AMERICAN CLUB INVESTMENT PIECES PIE-APALOOZA

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contents VOLUME 4, ISSUE 11

O C TO B E R 2 0 1 3

features

31 44 52 54

64 78

Sophisticated Living

By Tate Gunnerson and Kelly Konrad Preparing for your Parent-Teacher Conference

By Melanie Kalmar Family Fun at The American Club

By Kelly Konrad Flying Colors Teaming up to transform Make It Better’s new office in Winnetka

By Tate Gunnerson

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Worth the Investment

By Evangeline Politis Rockin’ Food at Roka Akor

By Julie Chernoff

on our cover Gold Coast pied-á-terre, designed by an elite design team, including Michael Abrams Photo by Scott Shigley

CORRECTION:

Our sincere apologies to WNBA Chicago Sky’s Swin Cash, who was incorrectly identified as a mother in our last issue.

Her nonprofit, Cash For Kids, makes her a mentor and inspiration to kids in her childhood communities.

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48 62

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family

dining and entertainment

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Teen Boy 101

By Jenny Muslin

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Should you Charge your Adult Child Rent?

By Melanie Kalmar

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home

60

Small Changes, Big Difference

By Kristina Tober

a better you

62 68 69 70 72 74 76

Daytripper: Oak Park

By Laura Hine Arm Candy

By Evangeline Politis

Love Rules in a Spooky Season

By Robert Loerzel Booklist: Silly Season

By Kelly Konrad

make a difference

90 96

Better Makers and Their Impact

magazine

MISSION STATEMENT The mission of Make It Better is to be the most-trusted, easiestto-use community resource and magazine that helps you make your life, and the lives of others, better.

Woodlands Academy Learning beyond textbooks

By Alex Hay

in every issue 16

editor’s letter

7 Fall Beauty Trands to Try

By Evangeline Politis

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you said it

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new in the northern suburbs

Is Your Daughter Ready for Makeup?

By Jenny Muslin

24

make it better column

Fall into a Run

By Christy Coughlin

82

theatre guide

87

music by val

Is an Interior Designer Worth the Cost?

By Meghan Streit

88

give time, give things, give support

98

closing thoughts

26

recommended events

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events listing

Make It Better North Shore (ISSN No. 2151-0431) is published 12 times per year by Make It Better LLC, 588 Lincoln Avenue, Winnetka, IL 60093. Phone: 847.256.4642. Copyright 2013 by Make It Better LLC. All rights reserved.

Application to Mail at Periodicals Rates is pending at Wilmette, IL and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Make It Better, 588 Lincoln Avenue, Winnetka, IL 60093. Make It Better is registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office.

Copyright 2013 by Make It Better LLC. All rights reserved.

Sexy Resources, Classes and Retreats for Couples

By Marjie Killeen

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Carrying forward the best of Pie-apalooza: Top Pastry Picks

By Julie Chernoff

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e di tor’s l et t e r

living well …

B y Tat e G u n n e r s o n

about covering the interiors beat is peering into other people’s homes and finding out what makes them tick. Without a doubt, the most interesting and engaging homes are the ones that came together slowly over time. That might mean antiques collected over a lifetime or carefully chosen custom furnishings that take weeks or months to receive. As it turns out, the slow movement extends to the design world as well, and living well requires time, consideration and often a little patience. “Living well” might have been the mantra for the homeowners featured in this year’s Home issue.

For the Glencoe resident who owns the Gold Coast pied-à-terre (A Room with a View, p. 37), living well meant assembling an elite design team that includes interior designer Michael Abrams, art consultant Patti Gilford, and architects Stuart Cohen and Julie Hacker. The project took nine months and resulted in a spectacular retreat filled with custom furnishings and carefully chosen artwork that never fails to please the owners, who use the space to entertain friends and relatives.

Tom and Connie Duckworth took a different approach for the design of their Lake Forest estate (Slow Design p. 33), cohabitating for a decade with their four children in just three rooms while Tom identified the finest craftsmen in England to handcraft historically accurate moldings, paneling and furnishings. It took another five years before they finished the exterior landscaping. I think you’ll agree that the spectacular result was well worth the wait.

I, along with everyone at Make It Better, invite you to savor what you see and read in this issue, think about what really makes your house a home, and celebrate those elements every day.

Thank you,

“Think about what really makes your house a home, and celebrate those elements every day.”

$$ raised for not-for-profits : $2,023277

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Photo courtesy of tate gunnerson

One of the best things

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con t r i bu tor s

With this month’s issue focusing on the home, we asked our contributors, “If home is where the heart is, where’s home for you?”

1 | julie chernoff Evanston Julie’s heart is always in her kitchen, where she spends most of her time feeding the people (and doggy) she loves most. It’s without a doubt the heart of her home.

2 | Christy Coughlin Wilmette Christy’s heart is at peace in her “home” outdoors, especially while enjoying the sunrise at the Lake Michigan shore or hiking with her family in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado.

3 | Melanie kalmar Elk Grove Village Anywhere there is family around, feels like home.

4 | marjie killeen Wilmette Home for Marjie is anywhere with a Lake Michigan view, all the way from Gillson Beach in Wilmette to Harbor Springs, Mich.

5 | Kelly Konrad Glenview For Kelly, home is on the football field, soccer field and swimming pool, watching her kids march, run and swim.

Good stuff.

6 | Jenny Muslin Chicago Jenny’s home is wherever her son and husband are.

7 | Sarah philippart Chicago Sarah’s home is many places— the Chicago apartment she shares with her husband, her parent’s house in Michigan where she grew up, and the many shared residences in Indianapolis where she spent her college years.

8 | kristina tober Lake Forest After moving almost 300 boxes, home for Kristina is definitely not packed with the tschotskes, but with the sheets and towels.

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588 Lincoln Ave. Winnetka, IL, 60093 | 847-256-4642

Founder & CEO Susan B. Noyes

Managing Editor Kelly Konrad

Art Director Sarah Philippart Designer Lesley Smith

Dining Editor Julie Chernoff

Fashion Editor Evangeline Politis

Finance Editor Meghan Streit

Fitness Editor Christy Coughlin

Home Editor Tate Gunnerson

Senior Living Editor Stuart Greenblatt Sex & the Suburbs Editor Marjie Killeen

Contributing Writers Alex Hay

Laura Hine Melanie Kalmar Robert Loerzel Jenny Muslin Kristina Tober

Photographers John Reilly Photography Scott Shigley

Illustrator Megan Arenson

Digital Editor Lindsay Roseman

Editorial Assistant Anna Carlson

Proofreader Julie Chernoff Creative Director Cheryl Berman

Publisher Kimberly Carroll

Co-Founder & Vice

President of Marketing Mindy Fauntleroy

Chief Operating Officer Sandy Tsuchida

Ad Sales Manager Megan Holbrook

Senior Account Executives Patti Augustyn Julie Carter Account Executive Jenny Newman

make it better foundation

Director Sharon Krone Editor Coco Keevan

Got feedback? E-mail susan@makeitbetter.net To advertise: Contact megan@makeitbetter.net

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ON L I N E

OUR BETTER HALF IS ONLINE

preschool readiness guide Did the start of the school year get you thinking about preschool for your littlest ones? Use this comprehensive guide to help navigate the preschool process and find the best local resources.

pinspiration

Our followers can’t get enough of these pins. Follow Make It Better on Pinterest to repin your faves and read more.  PINTEREST.COM/MAKEITBETTERMAG

what’s hot on makeitbetter.net

register for tech mamma classes

FOOD & DRINK

Online registration is now open.

Fabio Viviani’s Eggplant Caponata

BLOGGING FOR BEGINNERS

HEALTH & WELLNESS

How to Talk to Your Teen Boy About Health and Hygiene

with Laura Hine

DIY beauty treatments we love: cleansing peppermint face & body wash. Click for 5 more homemade, all-natural product recipes.

TWITTER 101

with Julie Chernoff

ORGANIZED HOME

10 Steps to an Organized Home

BRAND BASICS, BUILDING YOUR BRAND AND ONE-ON-ONE COACHING

YOUR MONEY

with Betsy Westhoof

10 Questions to Ask a Financial Advisor: When You’re Pregnant

“ASK MARJIE” SERIES

with Marjie Killeen HELLO WINE! FOR WOMEN

with Melanie Wagner HOW TO RAISE MORE MONEY FOR YOUR NONPROFIT

with Susan B. Noyes Hpnotiq Glow Halloween Martini HOW TO WRITE A PRESS RELEASE AND WHERE TO SEND IT

with Julianne Beck  MAKEITBETTER.NET/CLASSES

must-read op-ed LINDA YONKE, NEW TRIER HIGH SCHOOL SUPERINTENDENT: GIRLS SHOULD DRESS TO IMPRESS THEMSELVES

After Miley Cyrus’ racy VMA performance, there’s no better time than now to encourage your daughters to get ahead using their brains—not their bodies.

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Beetlejuice Halloween costume for kids

BEETLEJUICE PHOTO COURTESY OF INESSA MIKHAILOV, CREATOR OF DIAPER STYLE MEMOIRS; COCKTAIL PHOTO BY LINDSAY ROSEMAN

 MAKEITBETTER.NET/PRESCHOOL

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On the fence about attending RE:WORK IV? Here’s one testimonial from a former attendee who is now back in the workforce:

“Because your RE:WORK seminars have been so fabulous for me the past couple of years, there is no need for me to attend this year (sadly … because I loved that day!). I have really RE:LAUNCHED my career path thanks to you and your fabulous team! I still keep in touch with one of your panel guests and have worked closely with her on several projects. I just LOVED what you have created for so many of us finding a path of our own in the workforce.”

—Lisa Aiken For more information or to register, visit:  makeitbetter.net/rework4

in response to 9 Ways to a Better Life After Cancer:

Cancer survivor Mindy Ugolini offered inspiring insight about what helped her turn a devastating diagnosis into the launch pad for a better life.

“Thank you to Mindy Ugolini for this article and for personally being a resource for me through many of the same experiences.

Your openness, thoughtfulness and support were a real blessing to me.”

—Karen Wenger Cho “As fellow mom and cancer survivor, I love Mindy’s advice and am glad to hear she is doing well. I have two additional resources for your readers. The first is thelicoriceproject.com, which is a community for everyone affected by breast cancer: newly diagnosed patients, survivors and their families and friends. The second resource is workingoutcancer.com, a website focusing on helping you stay active before, during and after a cancer diagnosis.”

—Cara Novy-Bennewitz We love to hear from you, so please keep sending us your stories, comments, opinions, ideas and reviews!

Facebook

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@makeitbetterNS

Email

Online

susan@makeitbetter.net

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FR E SH

BY JULIE CHERNOFF AND ANNA CARLSON

SHOP ‘TIL YOU DROP

5220 Fashion Outlets Way, Rosemont, 847-928-7500, fashionoutletsofchicago.com It’s hard to miss the 530,000-square-foot Fashion Outlets of Chicago in Rosemont—and equally hard to not find something for everyone. Open since August, with 120 stores ranging from Saks Fifth Avenue OFF 5TH to Bloomingdale’s The Outlet Store to the Disney Store Outlet, Fashion Outlets of Chicago is the newest place to one-stop shop for deals. Purchase a Green Savings Card for $5 to save even more from each store and restaurant you visit. You can also enjoy the outlet’s partnership with The Arts Initiative, which brings interactive visual art to public areas. —AC

EVANSTONIANS REJOICE! TRADER JOE’S: 1211 Chicago Ave., Evanston, 847-7330690, traderjoes.com. After a year of construction and anticipation, the new Evanston outpost of Trader Joe’s finally opened in early September. Located on busy Chicago Avenue, just blocks from both the El and Metra stops, and with parking for 80+ cars, the new store is continually packed with eager shoppers, from grandmas to college students. And of course, they’re stocking all of your favorite TJ products, like Edamame Hummus, frozen Breaded Eggplant and Roasted Corn, Pomegranate Greek Yogurt and just about anything you can imagine covered in dark chocolate. You’ve gotta love that! —JC

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OCTOBER 2013

THE BURGERFI-CATION OF GLENVIEW BURGERFI: 1735 Milwaukee Ave., Glenview, 847376-8014, burgerfi.com. Want to know what an environmentally sustainable burger joint looks like? Head to Glenview for an education in tasty.

Chairs are made from recycled Coke bottles, tables from compressed and recycled wood, and the carbon footprint is surprisingly small. Not to mention the enormous Crispy Onion Rings and the juicy Brisket Burger, or the uber-creamy frozen custard (Red Velvet Concrete, anyone?) and be sure to ask for the “Secret Menu.” All that, and craft beers too! It’s fast(ish) food you can feel good about. —JC

GRACEFUL SHOPPING

GRACIE’S: 1939 Central St., Evanston, 847-859-2527. Whether you’re

shopping for a dress, scarf or jewelry, you can find all the latest trends at Gracie’s, located in Evanston’s Central Street shopping district. Opened last winter by John Liberty, the store carries brands such as Bryn Walker, Moonlight and Oh My Gauze. Liberty, who previously owned Handle with Care in Chicago, says the store caters to everyone from teenagers and grandmothers. The boutique is also a great place to find that perfect gift for someone special. —AC

TRADER JOE’S PHOTO BY SARAH PHILIPPART, ALL OTHER PHOTOS COURTESY OF EACH BUSINESS

FASHION OUTLETS OF CHICAGO:

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m a k e i t bet t e r colum n

learn • grow • connect

Educational & Entrepreneurial Community Space Now Open We opened the Tech Mamma Lounge —a

vibrant, interactive community classroom and entrepreneurial space—in response to requests from our audience, advertisers and nonprofit partners for more ways to connect, learn and grow. We carefully vet our teachers and partners so you can be certain that your time is well spent when you sign up for one of our classes or activities. We limit class size to ensure everyone leaves having learned well, with energy to move forward. Our first sessions are listed below. Please let us know what else you would like to learn about or do in the Tech Mamma Lounge!

Twitter 101

Intro to Facebook

with Julie Chernoff

with Lindsay roseman

October 3

October 10

Blogging for Beginners

Hello Wine! For Women

with Laura Hine

October 17 Brand Basics, Building Your Brand and One-onOne Coaching with Betsy Westhoff

“Ask Marjie” Just for Her with Marjie Killeen

October 16

Wine Basics: October 8 France in a Nutshell: October 15 Pinot Noir Intensive: October 22 Napa vs. Bordeaux: October 29 Bubbles!: November 5 Holiday Food Pairings: November 12 How To Raise More Money For Your Nonprofit with Susan b. noyes

October 24

“Ask Marjie” Just for Him with Marjie Killeen

October 30

with Melanie Wagner

How To Write A Press Release And Where to Send It with Julianne Beck

October 8 & 10 Full class descriptions are available online.

register for classes:

makeitbetter.net/classes 588 Lincoln Ave., Winnetka • 847-256-4642

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e v e n ts

r e c o m m e n d e d

B y K e l ly K o n r a d

Fall Color Festival October | Morton Arbore5 Weekends, tum, Lisle | mortonarb.org Looking for a place to catch great fall foliage? Head west to Lisle one weekend this month. And while you’re there, take part in a Dracula-themed Theatre Hike or tour the Glass Pumpkin garden. Simply beautiful. oct

editor’s pick Chicago Fine Chocolate and 18 Dessert Show October 18–20 | Navy Pier chicagochocolatefestival.com So, you need more than the word “chocolate” in an event name to convince you to go? I don’t even want to know you. Alright—it’s family-friendly fun and tasty. Live pastry demos and a chance to learn how to really pair chocolate with beer or wine makes this an educational outing, too! oct

Northwestern University Homecoming Weekend October 4–5 | Evanston | nusports.com It’s Homecoming weekend for Chicago’s Big Ten team. Show your Purple pride this weekend by attending the parade, a bonfire or the big game against The Ohio State University. oct

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Chicago International Festival 10 Film October 10–24 | various Chicago locations | chicagofilmfestival.com Lights, camera … action! Hollywood comes to Chicago for two weeks this month— get your tickets now and catch a world premiere or two. Us? We’re all about some red carpet-watching fun. oct

2013 Kitchen Walk 12 October 12 | Harbor Country, MI designsfordignity.org Make a date with Harbor Country this October. Grab some girlfriends and join a fantastic daylong kitchen walk that supports a great nonprofit, Designs For Dignity. oct

Circus in Progress 12 | The Actors Gymnasium, 12 October 927 Noyes St., Evanston actorsgymnasium.com Here is why we live in such a great place: circus classes in our own backyard! Catch oct

the latest group of aerialists show off their talents at this annual show.

Great Highwood Pumpkin 17 Festival October 17–19 | Downtown Highwood highwoodpumpkinfest.com Can Highwood win the title of World’s Largest Jack o’Lantern Wall again? It’s everything we love about fall, with music, food, a great fall 5K and more. oct

Antiques + Modernism Show  18–20 | 620 Lincoln Ave., 18 October Winnetka | thewinnetkashow.com It’s a signature event on the North Shore— the marriage of multiple genres in form and function. This year? We are all over the Downton Abbey cocktail party. oct

Maze ‘Til Midnight 18–19 | 9407 Richardson 18 October Rd., Spring Grove | richardsonadventurefarm.com This year’s maze celebrates 50 years of The Beatles—reason enough to go—but if that’s not adventure enough, you should try Zorb-ing or the zip line. Richardson’s can scratch that fall adventure itch. oct

Photos courtesy of chicago chocolate festival and antiques + modernism show

An Evening with Patti LuPone 5 and Mandy Patinkin October 5 | Pick-Staiger Concert Hall, 50 Arts Circle Dr., Evanston | pickstaiger.org A concert not to be missed—Patti LuPone and Mandy Patinkin each offer show-stopping performances. Together? Guaranteed entertainment. oct

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Spooky Pooch Parade October 19 | Chicago Botanic Garden, Glencoe | chicagobotanic.org This parade proves Halloween is for everyone, including the dogs. It’s the only time you can take your pooch to the Garden. Make it an event to remember, dress ‘em up, and don’t forget the camera.

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CROCtoberfest 19 October 19 | Wildlife Discovery Center, 1401 Middlefork Dr., Lake Forest cityoflakeforest.com Skip the trip to the Everglades—here’s a chance to get up close and personal with live crocs. Learn more about these amazing creatures at this family-friendly festival.

Hallowed Haunts October 26 | Symphony Center, 220 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago | cso.org What a cool way to treat your kid to the symphony—in costume. Catch the Civic Orchestra of Chicago in action, and enjoy a few ghoulish tunes on a Saturday afternoon in the city.

Wagner Farm Corn Harvest Festival October 19 | Wagner Farm, Glenview wagnerfarm.org It’s a day at the farm, and just in time for the harvest—with fall colors, wagon rides, animals and even the chance for the kids to learn what it’s like to work the land.

Lyle Lovett & John Hiatt  October 31 | North Shore Center for the Performing Arts northshorecenter.org Two music powerhouses on one stage for one night. Don’t miss the ex-Mr. Julia Roberts and Hiatt in this great evening of awesome music.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF CHICAGO BOTANIC GARDEN AND NORTH SHORE CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS

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BOO-ze! Haunted Pub Crawl 23 October 23 | Chicago | chicagohistory.org Looking to be properly spooked? Learn more about Chicago’s supernatural past on this trolley tour to some of the city’s haunted hangouts.

OCT

HallowFest October 26–27 | Chicago Botanic Garden, Glencoe | chicagobotanic.org Spooky fun for families is on tap all weekend at the Chicago Botanic Garden. Catch the pumpkin display, trick or treat with the kids and don’t miss the aptly-decorated train garden.

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e v e n ts l ist i ng

october highlights B y K e l ly K o n r a d

october 1–7 Fall Bulb Festival October 4–6 Chicago Botanic Garden | 100 Lake Cook Rd., Glencoe| chicagobotanic.org

Scream Scene Haunted House Opens October 5 Oakton Park | 4701 Oakton St., Skokie screamscene.org

Forest Fitness October 5 Cuba Marsh | Cuba Rd., west of Ela Rd., Barrington | lcfpd.org

Beekeeping October 6 Heller Nature Center | 2821 Ridge Rd., Highland Park | pdhp.org

october 8–15 Autumn Brews: Seasonal Beer Tasting October 10 Chicago Botanic Garden 100 Lake Cook Rd., Glencoe | chicagobotanic.org

Lewis Black October 11 North Shore Center for the Performing Arts 9501 Skokie Blvd., Skokie northshorecenter.org David Bromberg Quintet October 12–13 SPACE | 1245 Chicago Ave., Evanston evanstonspace.com

october 16–22 Adler After Dark October 17 Adler Planetarium | 1300 S. Lake Shore Dr., Chicago | adlerplanetariumc.org

Modern Vintage Chicago October 19–20 1340 W. Washington St., Chicago randolphstreetmarket.com

Citadel Theatre Hike: Jenny and the Old House October 17–21 Mellody Farm Nature Preserve | 350 N. Waukegan Rd., Lake Forest | lfola.org

Northwestern University vs.

Minnesota: Football October 19 Ryan Field, Evanston | nusports.com

october 23–31 Opening the Vaults: Wonders of the 1893 World’s Fair Opens October 25 Field Museum | 1400 S. Lake Shore Dr., Chicago | fieldmuseum.org Rocky Horror Picture Show October 25 27 Live | 1012-1014 Church St., Evanston 27live.com

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Northwestern Symphony Orchestra October 26 Pick-Staiger Concert Hall | 50 Arts Circle Dr., Evanston | pickstaiger.org Graceland Cemetery Architecture Tour October 27 Graceland Cemetery | Clark St. and Irving Park Rd., Chicago| architecture.org

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ongoing Jellies Shedd Aquarium | 1200 S. Lake Shore Dr., Chicago | sheddaquarium.org The Universe: A Walk through Space and Time Adler Planetarium | 1300 S. Lake Shore Dr., Chicago | adlerplanetarium.org Dinosaurs Alive Ends October 27 Brookfield Zoo | 1st Avenue and 31st St., Brookfield | brookfieldzoo.org Creatures of Light: Nature’s Bioluminescence Field Museum | 1400 S. Lake Shore Dr., Chicago | fieldmuseum.org Play, Pretend and Dream: Caldecott Medal and Honor Books, 2010 - 2013 The Art Institute of Chicago | 11 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago | artic.edu Changing Views of American Indian Fine Art Mitchell Museum of the American Indian | 3001 Central St., Evanston | mitchellmuseum.org

sponsored listings

NAMI Cook County North Suburban Walk Saturday, Oct. 5, 9 A.M. Blue Star Memorial Woods | 701 E. Lake St.,Glenview | 847-716-2252 | namiccns.org NAMI, the National Alliance on Mental Illness, is the nation’s largest mental health organization that provides support, advocacy and education dedicated to building better lives for people affected by mental illness. Join us as we “Change Minds One Step at a Time.”

Babette Pre-Spring/ Spring 2014 Trunk Show Thursday, Oct. 10 to Saturday Oct. 12, 10 A.M. to 5:30 P.M. Mattie M | 990 Green Bay Rd., Winnetka 847-784-8701 This clothing line, well known for its pleated fabrications, makes it perfect for travel.

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sophisticatedliving b y t a t e g u n n e r s o n a n d k e ll y k o n r a d

“Home is the nicest word there is.”

—Laura Ingalls Wilder

Those few words sum it up.

Home implies comfort and love in physical form. Whether it’s your childhood manse, your own family abode or the retirement retreat that awaits you on long weekends, home is, indeed, where your heart is.

In these pages we offer two ends of the spectrum in city and suburban living—very different in form, yet similar in their sophistication and functionality. The custom feel to these spectacular homes feels likes a fantasy, but as you’ll see, it’s well within your reach.

Read, be inspired, and make your home a piece of art.

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slowdesign Tom and Connie Duckworth’s decade-long home renovation was well worth the wait. s t o r y & p h o t o s B y Tat e G u n n e r s o n

When Tom and Connie Duckworth bought their brick and limestone Gothic Revivalstyle lakefront home in Lake Forest more than 20 years ago, they knew that it would be a work in progress. Originally built in the late 1920s as an art gallery for a manor house that has since been torn down, the space had been added to over the years, which doubled its size. The Duckworths demolished those additions, leaving the original structure, which had just three rooms—a grand 20-by-50-foot living room, a dining room and a secondfloor artist’s studio, which the growing family shared as a bedroom while Tom planned a new addition. “We started with three of us living in one room, and by the time we finished, there were six of us,” Tom explains. continued on page 35

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The ceiling in the living room originally had no moldings. After much research, Tom had them handcrafted in England to match the original wall paneling. “The paneling and flooring in this room are original up to about 12 feet high,” Tom says.

“We’ve added everything above that, including all the carving and ceiling beams.”

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Design with Purpose above: “In the early days of paneled rooms in England, the paneling would be installed in a mud-walled or other crude exterior structure,” Tom says. “The paneling was held together with wooden plugs so that it could be taken apart and moved.”

During those early days, the house functioned quite differently for the Duckworths and their four children than it does today. Melamine storage cabinets lined one wall in the living room, and the other side was full of exercise equipment, which often held coats. “We used the dining room as a playroom, and we had a TV in the fireplace,” Connie says. “Those days, when the kids were young and we were literally camping in one room, were really fun. It was, in some ways, carefree living.”

Tom reckoned that it would take time and much research to create a seamless addition that respected the home’s history and architecture. “It probably took 10 years to complete the interior,” he says.

“If I don’t know exactly what I want to

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do or how I want to do it, I wait until I figure it out.” Indeed, Tom estimates that it took him nearly two years to determine the best way to panel the dining room. Ultimately, he had the paneling, along with ceiling moldings, furnishings, chandeliers and light fixtures, designed and manufactured in England.

Walking through the home, it’s nearly impossible to discern the addition from the original structure. Although they have more than doubled the size of their home, the Duckworths say that it never feels empty. “There’s almost always somebody sleeping in the guest room,” Connie says, noting that she has an open door policy for family friends and enjoys cooking for the whole brood. “We love having a full house.”

The Duckworth home is filled with stunning Afghan rugs made by Arzu Studio Hope, the organization that Connie founded in 2004 after visiting the war-torn country and witnessing for herself the poor living conditions of Afghan women and children. The organization provides not only employment and a market for their hand-woven rugs, but also education, maternal health and an array of community programs.

“We operate in Bamyan Province, a very barren, remote area with very little economic activity,” Duckworth says. “Arzu Studio Hope has made a significant difference.” The nonprofit organization has partnered with designers such as Frank Gehry, Michael Graves, Zaha Hadid, Robert A.M. Stern, Margaret McCurry and Stanley Tigerman, who have created a wide array of patterns, which are then hand-woven by Afghan women in their own homes. “Here is global iconic architecture married with the poorest, most vulnerable group of women in the world, and it’s the artistry bridging these two worlds,” Duckworth says. Arzu Studio Hope rugs are available direct from ARZU and from Minasian Rug Company of Evanston.

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A Glencoe couple assembles an elite design team to transform their Gold Coast pied-à-terre. s t o r y B y Ta t e G u n n e r s o n | p h o t o s b y Sc o t t S h i g l e y “Our vision was to create a beautiful space that would be elegant for enter-

taining clients and friends, yet casual enough to have all the children and grandchildren feel comfortable to stay with us,” explains the owner of a two-level penthouse in Chicago’s Gold Coast neighborhood. The owners, who have resided in Glencoe for 30 years, purchased their urban pied-à-terre so they could be closer to their children and grandchildren, who live in the city. To help them customize their home, they engaged the help of an elite design team that includes interior designer Michael Abrams, who created a luxurious environment that emphasizes the view. “There isn’t a lot of color,” Abrams notes, pointing to the white walls and warm gray palette with black and silver accents. Custom furnishings upholstered in luxurious materials, such as leather and mohair, create interest without detracting from the spectacular skyline views. “The view provides the excitement, while the interior is soothing, relaxing and a good backdrop for the owners’ collection of fine art, sculpture and books,” Abrams says. continued on page 39

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Abrams designed a plush headboard upholstered in Romo silk. The drapery is from Dhongia. The chandelier and bedside lamps are from Remains Lighting.

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above: Abrams reoriented the large great room into three bays with areas for conversation, TV watching and dining. A long custom rug made of silk and hemp ties the living and dining areas together.

Indeed, the white walls create a gallery-like feeling for the owner’s extensive art collection, which includes pieces by Renate Wolff, Mike Andrews and Matthew Rich. For help, the owners turned to art consultant Patti Gilford.

“Patti visited our primary home to get a feel for who we are and what we collect and then joined in the task of adding to the artwork that we had already acquired for our city apartment,” the wife says, noting the collection of 75 blackand-white works by Andres Bally, which they display in the two-story stairwell. Their collection also includes a glazed ceramic mask by Asger Jorn, which is displayed in a Lucite box in the living room—one of several modernist pieces from Arts220, the Winnetka design gallery owned by Fern Simon. “Her store reflects her global perspective and is filled with both fine and decorative arts,” says the wife.

The owners also have high praise for architects Stuart Cohen and Julie Hacker, whose contributions include redesigning the master

bathroom, reconfiguring the master bedroom closet as an office space, and designing built-in cabinetry (made of rift-sawn white oak with a dark stain) for the family area. “We contacted this team as soon as we purchased the apartment, as we have completed many renovation projects with them during the past 20 years,” the wife says. “They are truly visionaries in the field of architecture.”

According to Abrams, the owners are dream clients who know what it takes to complete a home. “It’s that last 10 percent—art and accessories—that make all the difference, and these clients get it,” he says. “They surrounded themselves with the right team to make that happen.”

For the owners, every visit is an unforgettable experience. “Each and every time we walk into the apartment it takes our breath away,” the wife says. “The view is outstanding, but it is also the renovation, furnishings and artwork that make the picture complete.”

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Heather Hancock. The goal for this project was to add a dynamic element to this sophisticated kitchen.Â

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top & middle: Work by Workroom Inc.

Window covering in the coupleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s kitchen; handcrafted bedspread and window coverings in the bedroom.

right: Stairwell

mural painted by Patrick Roullier.

top & middle Photos by patty carroll; mosaic photo courtesy of heather hancock,

left: Mosaic backsplash by

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Use custom resources to give your space a personality B y K e l ly K o n r a d

what you put into it that makes it a home.

Whether it’s your first or your forever home, the choices you make about how to decorate and furnish it significantly impact your enjoyment of the space. Often, people make decisions based on a single catalog—without really exploring the entire breadth of decorating options available to them.

Here’s what you need to know: Exquisite, custom interior design is within everyone’s reach.

You buy a house. It’s

Think artfully “From a cognitive perspective, we need a dynamic visual experience,” says Heather Hancock, artist and owner of her own studio.

“It’s what our brain thrives on.”

Hancock works with glass to create not just stand-alone pieces of art, but beautiful backsplashes and mosaics in residential settings.

Always an artist, Hancock transitioned from a career in the neuro-sciences to exclusive studio work. Her clinical background remains a huge influence, but art, glass and custom design are her true passions.

Hancock’s work runs the gamut, from small backsplashes to larger installations inside a home at a variety of price points.

“(Some people think) fine art should be in a museum, and that’s really a mistake,” she says. “We live in context—we need to be surrounded by beauty; we need to be engaged.”

Designer John Diekmann concurs, and adds that too many people equate “custom” with “expensive.”

“Custom” doesn’t have to be expensive “I think the very first thing people need to realize is there is a huge misconception about custom—people think it’s expensive, but it doesn’t have to be,” he says. “There’s pretty much something for every budget.”

Diekmann, who owns Workroom Inc. with Joel Klaff, focuses on working with individual clients to choose custom fabrics that bring a home’s function to life.

“My whole purpose is to edit (for the client),” he says. “Form follows function—if it doesn’t do what you need it to do, it’s useless.”

Diekmann is also a big believer in accessibility to custom design. “There are things you can do with mid-range fabrics to make them look couture,” he says. “I focus on things that are accessible to people that they can get longevity out of. If they’re going to put their money into something, they’re going to have longevity.”

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Consider design a process, not just a project Custom interior design doesn’t have to have an end date. If a larger project is either too daunting or too pricey, artist Patrick Roullier suggests breaking it down into more manageable pieces, or just looking at design from a different perspective.

“Maybe they inherit a piece of furniture where the color doesn’t work, or a mural they like but isn’t the right scale,” he says. Rather than dump the furniture for a new piece or dismiss the artwork because of its size, “Using professionals can sometimes make a project suddenly become more reasonable.”

“Choosing a focal point as opposed to an entire room is one way to start,” says Roullier, who specializes in hand-painted floors, walls and furniture. “I’ve gotten calls from younger people and they want to do part of a mural to begin with and then add to it when they are able to—something that would be expensive for a client, the designer can sort of break it up a bit.”

Custom design is more than just a personal investment Choosing to use custom design makes a powerful statement. “I think there is a different kind of quality that comes across when something is handmade, hand painted, or hand drawn,” Hancock says. “People are interested in that element of craftsmanship.”

And the impact isn’t limited just to how your home looks—it messages your support of creative professionals.

“Even children say, ‘Oh, that’s going to be mine someday,’” Roullier says.

“They automatically identify something they want (that) their parents have, and they now know that an artist has a role in their life just like a dentist or a doctor. That gives me hope.”

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FA M I LY

preparing for your parent-teacher conference

BY MELANIE KALMAR TEACHERS SEE IT HAPPEN ALL the time. Parents come to conferences unprepared and ask a broad array of questions.

Suddenly, time is up and the opportunity to have a productive meeting has passed.

Take advice from the experts and avoid this scenario with these tips to make the most of your limited face-toface teacher time.

you want covered, ranked by order of importance, Livesay says. It ensures that the conference will be productive, regardless of how much time you are allotted.

1 What’s going on at home?

Be open to telling teachers what’s going on at home that could be affecting your child’s performance at school, says Melanie Horowitz, an administrator at Wilmette School District 39, and a former elementary school principal. “We want to get to know your whole child. Withholding information is a piece missing out of a puzzle.”

3 Don’t dwell on grades At the conference, a big mistake parents make is dwelling on a child’s grades. The conference should center on learning, Horowitz says. Even if your child is doing “fine,” the teacher should explain what that means and share ways to build on his or her strengths.

• Request work samples • Raise any issues your child would like addressed • Ask if the teacher has questions for you

ASK QUESTIONS LIKE:

• How does the child get along socially? Because it affects how she perceives the school day.

• Is the child resilient?

• How are his or her problem-solving skills?

• Are there any other skills that could contribute to their success at school?

YOUR OBJECTIVE SHOULD BE TO:

• Build on strengths. Don’t just talk about struggles.

4 Don’t accuse; instead question When a teacher presents a problem, such as, “Your son is disorganized,” replace accusations with questions, such as, “What are you doing to help him get organized?” or “What can I do?”

5 Special needs take special meeting preparation Parents of special-needs children might prepare by consulting with advocates, like former special education teacher Jonathan Carroll of Northfield or Highland Park attorney Micki Moran. They can untangle the red tape and put the focus back on the child. If time runs out, ask for another meeting.

6 Communicate the results Share what was good and what can be improved—with your child.

Above all, tell your child about the conference because he is part of the team, Horowitz says. If the teacher suggested ways he can improve, share it with him.

PHOTO <CREDIT>

2 Pre-send bullet points Prior to the meeting, think about the information you need and make sure the people who have it will be in attendance, says Stephanie Livesay of the National Association of School Psychologists in Maryland.

Prepare the teacher or team in advance by emailing bullet points of what

IN THE EMAIL, YOU SHOULD ALSO:

• Set specific goals that are attainable by next marking period.

• Work as a team.

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fa m i ly

By Jenny Muslin

If you’re the mom of a tween or teen boy, there’s no doubt that at some point, you’ve asked youself, “Just what the heck is that smell?”

What is it about boys on

the verge of hitting puberty that makes them think it’s OK to skip a shower and instead cover up their stink with an overdose of Axe body spray? When it comes to boy basics, we have some words of wisdom.

Middle school English teacher Dana Taylor is no stranger to the smelly boy issue, particularly when her students have just returned from

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gym class. She believes the responsibility is truly up to the parents. “At many schools, the health and gym teachers sit the kids down and talk to them about hormone changes, but it’s the parents who need to actually go out and buy their teen deodorant and show them how to apply it, or give them a razor and teach them how to shave,” Taylor says.

Dr. Peter Lechman, the medical director for Northwestern Physicians Group Pediatrics, explains, “At around age 10 or 11, boys are still developmentally little kids, yet entering the early stages of puberty. Their hair and skin are becoming oilier and they are starting to perspire. It’s up to the parents to find a way to motivate their child to take ownership over their

changing bodies.” Lechman has a few suggestions on how parents can do this.

• Start by sitting down with your son and explaining that part of growing up is about gaining responsibilities.

Ask him how he can behave like an adult in regards to hygiene, and make an actual list together. This will engage your child right away.

If there’s a father in the house, ask your son to consider his father’s daily routine. He brushes his teeth, puts on deodorant and changes his underwear and socks daily. Put it on the list.

• Around this age, boys start to care about what other people (particularly their peers) think about them.

Try to appeal to that desire. You can tell them about the health benefits of taking care of themselves, but they won’t care. Instead, you might emphasize that they’re going to turn off others if they don’t take care of themselves.

• Give them the tools they need and show them how to use them. This is another step a same-sex role model can teach them.

If your son is educated about grooming and hygiene as a young man, he’ll carry these habits into his adulthood.

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bet t e r you | finance

should you charge your adult child rent?

Melanie Kalmar

Your “boomerang kid” has moved back home. Now the question is: Should they pay rent?

You may be surprised—the answer depends on a number of variables, according to Dr. Tom Olkowski, author of “Helping Children Cope with Moving” (Kindle Edition, 2011): • Why is the adult child moving home?

• How long will they stay?

• Do they have a plan of action for moving out?

• Do they have a history of being responsible or irresponsible?

Parents should also consider: • What do they want from the child? If it’s a second chance, it will only lead to trouble.

• How do they perceive the event? Is it an imposition?

If you’re still on the fence about charging rent and your child is responsible, you can barter services, like grocery shopping or cooking, Dr. Olkowski says.

Help your young adult leave the nest Prepare your child—starting in their freshmen year of college—for life after graduation, says financial expert and North Shore native Terry Savage. Let them know how long they can live at home before they have to pay rent or move out. The rent doesn’t have to be market rate, Savage says, just enough to motivate them to get a job.

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Parents who charge their kids rent only to give the money back when they move out are not helping them.

It doesn’t happen that way in the real world, and you want to give them a life lesson, says Dan Gill, a counselor at The Family Institute at Northwestern University. Instead, teach your child how to become financially independent by helping them create a budget or hiring a financial planner to do it with them.

It’s not about the money The real issue is not rent, it’s figuring out a living arrangement that works for everyone, says Dr. Florence Kaslow, author of “Divorced Fathers and Their Families,” (Springer, 2012). “It would be pretty coldhearted to tell a child, ‘Sorry, go be homeless,’ if they are not lazy and they are looking for a job.”

To avoid conflict, write a contract with your child that specifies what you expect from them, Dr. Olkowski says. Include in it: • Their responsibilities around the house • How long they’ll stay • Their plan of action for moving out • If they break the agreement, they lose privileges, have to pay rent or move out.

Like any official contract, it too should come with an expiration date.

Need more reasons to encourage your 20-something child to make the most of this important decade? Don’t miss Meg Jay’s wildly popular TED talk “Why 30 is not the new 20.” bit.ly/17fjdSe

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sponsor e d con t e n t

the strain of sports injuries

By Eric L. Chehab, MD, O r t h o p a ed i c P h y s i c i a n , Ill i n o i s B o n e & J o i n t I n s t i t u t e

With the start of school sports, orthopaedic injuries—those involving muscles, tendons, ligaments, bones and joints—are common. Use these helpful tips for identifying and handling three of the most common injuries.

1. Ankle sprain/fractures

Ankle sprains occur when the foot rolls or twists awkwardly, overstretching ligaments that support the ankle. R.I.C.E.—rest, ice packs, compression, and elevation– are recommended initially, but talk to an orthopaedic doctor to see if further evaluation is needed, as growth plate fractures in kids are nearly indistinguishable from sprains. An ankle that’s been sprained or injured once is more likely to sprain again and lack of proper care can lead to chronic instability and dysfunction. Physical therapy will typically restore full motion, flexibility, strength and balance helping athletes return to sport more quickly and safely.

2. ACL injury

Tearing of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) inside the knee joint often occurs in sports involving sudden stops and pivots. A “pop” may be felt or heard at the time of injury, and the knee may swell, feel unstable or become too painful to bear weight. An orthopaedic physician can provide proper diagnosis. Treatment may include ACL reconstruction surgery and physical therapy.

3. Wrist Fracture

For minor orthopaedic injuries, the ER is not your only choice. Illinois Bone & Joint Institute’s OrthoAccess immediate care clinics treat simple fractures, sprains, strains, dislocations, work and sports injuries. Care is faster and costs up to 80% less than an ER visit.

IBJI OrthoAccess is staffed by orthopedic specialists and offers advanced diagnostic imaging and a full range of rehab services. For more information, visit ibji.com.

IBJI OrthoAccess Locations Walk in or call ahead for a same day appointment.

Glenview 2350 Ravine Way, Suite 600 | 847-832-6006 M-TH 12 to 8p.m., Fri 12 to 6p.m., Sat 8a.m . to 12p.m.

Gurnee 350 S. Greenleaf, Suite 405 | 847-693-2160 M-F 7:30a.m. to 7p.m.

Lake Forest 900 Westmoreland, Suite LL-72 | 847-693-2160 Sat 8a.m. to 11a.m.

Libertyville 720 Florsheim Dr. | 847-816-0656 M-TH 7a.m. to 6p.m., F 7a.m. to 4p.m.

Morton Grove 9000 Waukegan Rd., Suite 200 847-745-BONE(2663) M-F 8a.m. to 5p.m.

A distal radius fracture or wrist fracture often occurs when outstretched hands break a hard fall. If the fracture is simple (few bone pieces), an orthopaedic surgeon may reposition the bones and place a cast or splint. More complex fractures may require surgery and the use of implantable devices to hold the bone in correct alignment.

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fa m i ly | travel

family fun at the american club B y K e l ly K o n r a d

Vacations shouldn’t be that much work, right?

explore by bike, go horseback riding, canoe, fish, play tennis, swim, work out, and of course, play golf.

Planning that perfect getaway—

What to do

a little adventure and a lot of relaxation—can be a challenge, especially when it’s for a family full of different interests. Our advice? Drive just two hours north, where there’s something for everyone.

Golf: While you may not tee off on Whistling Straits with your toddler, The American Club’s four courses

Across the border

Kohler has long been a destination for golfers and girlfriend getaways. But The American Club (419 Highland Dr., Kohler, WI, 866-887-8455, americanclubresort.com) offers adventure opportunities for great family fun. If you like the outdoors, your dance card’s full—you can trapshoot, paddleboard,

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offer a truly top-notch experience for you and your older kids. Just learning?

Check out Kohler’s Golf Academy.

Swim and sun: The Sports Core is just a walk, bike or shuttle ride away from your hotel room. Guests can rent a tennis court, take a paddleboard lesson, kayak around Wood Lake or relax on the beach or in the outdoor, fireside hot tub.

Nature-based adventure: River Wildlife is great for kids of all ages.

Younger ones can fish, canoe and take nature walks, while older kids can try trapshooting.

all Photos courtesy of the american club

From luxurious to laid back, Kohler’s toprated resort has something for everyone.

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Mommy’s morning out: Kohler Waters Spa. Let Dad take the kids so you can sneak two hours to go to the spa and get pampered like you’ve never been before. The Complete Harmony Treatment is 80 minutes of heaven.

Don’t discount the Kohler Design

You’d think there is nothing less exciting for kids than a plumbing showroom, but you would be wrong.

Turns out, there is a design maven in everyone, including 12-year-old girls and 17-year-old boys. Infinity tubs made everyone’s wish list.

Center.

What to eat

I can’t emphasize this enough: At The American Club, you can’t go wrong when it comes to a great meal.

For families, River Wildlife, Cucina and The Horse & Plow offer the most family-friendly environments, where-

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as The Immigrant Restaurant and Blackwolf Run are more appropriate for couples.

For those that really want to take advantage of the culinary experience, check out the wildly popular Food & Wine Experience, October 17-20. Says Chicago chef Tony Mantuano, of Bar Toma, Terzo Piano and Spiaggia fame, “I love the Kohler Food & Wine Experience for

many reasons. One is that it is truly an ‘experience.’ Guests can mingle with the chefs and vice versa like no other event.

Two is that it may be the most relaxing of any food and wine event because of its setting within the Kohler campus. And lastly, the most important reason is the enthusiasm from each and every guest that attends the weekend; there is a wonderful energy surrounding the event.”

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hom e

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FLYING COLORS Bardes Interiors/Maze Home and Hester Decorating team up to transform Make It Better’s new office in Winnetka S T O R Y & P H O T O S B Y TAT E G U N N E R S O N

“THIS OFFICE MAKES A STATEMENT,” explains Cindy

Galvin, of Bardes Interiors and Maze Home in Winnetka. Galvin and her assistant, Chris Williams, designed and installed Make It Better’s brand-new office in just six short weeks. The light and airy second-floor space is a far cry from the windowless first-floor office space that the magazine’s staff shared for the first few years of its existence. Make It Better founder and CEO Susan Noyes, says that she envisioned the space as a creative, inspiring and fun environment for her staff, the readers and participants in classes at the Tech Mamma Lounge, a new community space where, starting in October, Make It Better writers and experts on a variety of topics will teach courses that are open to readers. Upcoming sessions include Wine Tasting, Brand Management, Creating a Website and Blogging 101 (see p. 24). “This is intended to be an entrepreneurial space,” Noyes says. “If you have an idea or business that you’re trying to grow, I think that you can do that in partnership with us here, and I’m excited about that.”

The first thing visitors will see is a wall in the entry stairwell that has been painted with blackboard paint and covered with chalk-written messages. “It’s a giant graffiti wall that feels very welcoming,” Galvin says. “Susan told me that she wanted the staff to be in an environment that’s happy and cheerful.” Ac-

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In the Tech Mamma Lounge, Galvin paired a set of Louis XVI cane-back chairs with a vintage kitchen table. “I mixed traditional and contemporary to create a really fun setting for the staff, who works very long hours,” Galvin says.

The design team: Christine Williams, Cindy Galvin and Jeff Hester.

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Galvin selected wood and aluminum desks from IKEA for the staff. “The IKEA furniture is my neutral,” Galvin says. “It helps to keep the balance and the harmony in the room.”

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cording to Jeff Hester, of Hester Painting & Decorating in Skokie, the paint comes in several different colors and is just one of the many interesting finishes available these days. For example, in the Tech Mamma Lounge, he covered one wall with a dry-erase finish that transforms it into a giant erasable idea board. “We painted every surface in the office,” says Hester, who did the work pro bono. “Our company makes an effort to give back to the community, so working with Make It Better was the perfect marriage.”

For the bullpen, which is shared by editorial and production staff, Galvin selected 10 matching wood and aluminum desks from IKEA. “It’s one big room, but I wanted each of them to have their own space,” Galvin says. A pair of upholstered screens separates the staff area from Noyes’ desk, a glass and chrome Italian design with a double pedestal. Nearby, Galvin created a lounge area with furniture that she donated along with her time. “I anchored the seating area with a white sofa, so I could pop the colors on the two chairs, the lamps, the pull-up cubes, accessories and artwork,” Galvin says, noting that the area can double as an office extension for group meetings.

For artwork, Galvin hung framed Make It Better mementos, including the cover of the first issue and a banner poster from a fundraiser.

The colorful design has been a hit with the staff. According to the magazine’s managing editor, Kelly Konrad, the new space provides for a much more collaborative environment. Likewise, art director Sarah Philippart can’t say enough about the new space. “It’s light and bright, so it puts you in a good mood,” Philippart says, noting that the windows can be opened to bring in fresh air. Noyes is thrilled at the response and appreciative of Cindy Galvin, Jeff Hester and Wilmette-based Kashian Brothers Flooring, who provided the office carpeting at wholesale cost. “Walking into this office lifts you up and makes you feel better,” Noyes says.

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maze home

Maze Home is the North Shore’s source for custom furniture, home accessories and gifts. Owner and interior designer Cindy Galvin travels the world to bring the best in style home to Winnetka.

“My staff is so great at understanding our customers’ needs and knowing our products as well as interior design,” says Galvin. “They can help each one with personal care and thoughtfulness.

We have a wonderful team that makes our culture at Maze Home.”

Maze Home keeps their fingers on the pulse of what’s new in the field of home goods and accessories. With 30 years of experience in the interior design business, the staff is keenly aware of what works, what doesn’t, and why—and the product mix appeals to all price points. Galvin’s motto? “Everyone should be able to walk out of Maze with a new treasure for their home.”

735 Elm St. , Winnetka | mazehome.com | 847-441-1115

hester painting & decorating

For 45 years, Hester Painting & Decorating has offered interior and exterior painting, faux and other specialty finishing, Venetian plastering, staining, wallcovering—just about any kind of painting and decorating need for a home. From expert paint finishes to hand-painted silk paper and grasscloth installation, Hester has done it all.

Owners and designers of the finest homes in the Chicago area routinely turn to Hester for their extensive options for finishes and textures, as well as the highest quality craftsmanship.

The most often repeated praise that the firm receives from clients is about its unparalleled customer service and professionalism. For Hester Painting & Decorating painters, this is not just a job, it is a career—and they are constantly working at learning and improving their craft.

Hester Painting & Decorating creates walls that customers refer to as works of art. The dedication to precision, from the prep work stage through the final product, is superior.

7340 N. Monticello Ave., Skokie | hesterdecorating.com | 847-677-5130

kashian bros

Specializing in carpet, area rugs, wood and vinyl flooring, along with carpet, rug and upholstery Cleaning, dust-free wood refinishing and air duct cleaning, Kashian Bros. is your go-to source for floor and home care needs.

Kashian Bros. offers a unique collection of flooring that’s personally selected from mills around the world. Each collection is chosen for its style, color, quality and value. The friendly and knowledgeable staff has the best combination of experience and creativity when helping customers find just the right floor for homes. And when it comes to installing floors, no detail is overlooked.

Kashian Bros. installers are expert craftsman that custom fit your flooring. Find out why so many customers have trusted their floors to Kashian Bros since 1910.

1107 Greenleaf Ave., Wilmette | kashianbros.com | 847-251-1200

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HOM E

Change is good—but it doesn’t have to take a lot of time or effort.

We asked architect Amy Courage for ideas on what you can improve today that will add real, aesthetic value to your home without having to pull a permit.

molding to lighten the mood in a period home. Add some heft to ugly builtins or cabinets by adding crown molding, base and a seamless coat of paint.

Lighten up window treatments Nothing dates your space like over-styled window treatments with heavy hardware. Ditch the valances and swags, replace the carved wood

WINDOW TREATMENT PHOTO COURTESY OF ROOM AND BOARD

BY KRISTINA TOBER

Make a statement with your doors Don’t underestimate the face value of your front and garage doors. Swap out a builder-grade front door for quality materials that suit your home’s architecture. If your garage faces front, install decorative doors that not only match your home’s style, but also aesthetically minimize the scale of the doors.

Update molding and trim Start with your home style and amp up or pare back the molding as appropriate. Don’t be afraid to paint wood

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Upgrade the bathroom Updating a bathroom can be as simple as a coat of paint and new countertop. Courage loves the look of high-gloss black with heavily veined black marble. Swap out dated plumbing fixtures (easy to do when you keep the same set-up), light fixtures and mirrors.

Particularly in a historic home, you can get creative with existing traditional details and either move or repurpose them.

Bring your floors to life You might not have the time, budget or desire to rip up existing floors.

Explore your options with paint, or opt for a dark stain to hide flaws on dated wood floors. For a quicker fix, consider a neutral cover-up with a seagrass or sisal rug.

Organize your stuff Nothing hampers style more than clutter. Create a system where everyone can dump their stuff in an organized fashion. Look for an open wall in your laundry room or garage (or wherever your family enters most frequently) and install a locker system (either builtin or with a furniture piece).

window treatment Photo courtesy of room and board

photo courtesy of wisteria.com

with simple metal, and layer simple, natural fabrics for a lighter, brighter touch.

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bet t e r you

Daytripper

Oak Park shares tree-lined streets with the North Shore, but where we got the lake, they got Frank.

That

would

be

Frank

Lloyd

Wright, arguably

the world’s most famous architect, who lived and worked in Oak Park from the beginning of his career until 1909. Signs of Wright’s influence are everywhere—starting with his own home and studio, and extending to stores filled with Mission- and Prairie-style furnishings. In less than an hour’s drive from the North Shore, you can sightsee, get a little culture, a great meal and even sneak in some shopping.

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Frank Lloyd Wright Home & Studio Start with a guided tour of Wright’s home and studio. Even kids will enjoy this tour because a lot of the details of the home were created with Wright’s children in mind—check out where he put the kids’ grand piano! For the truly interested, the self-guided neighborhood audio tour covers a lot more ground—it’s a lot of walking.

For most families, the house and studio tour will be enough. For adults, add the neighborhood tour. 951 Chicago Ave., 312944-4000, gowright.org Alternatives to Walking Tours If all that walking isn’t going to make your family happy campers, Oak Park does have several other options. Greenline Wheels rents bikes (with maps) for a self-guided tour. There’s also Oak Park Segway, which you must reserve in advance and the minimum age is 14; but if you don’t mind the goofy helmet, you’re zipping around on a Segway! Finally, Rickshaw Rick’s Tours and Taxis will take you on a guided Rickshaw tour of the ‘hood.

Greenline Wheels, 105 S. Marion St., 708-725-7170, greenlinewheels.com Oak Park Segway, 715 Lake St., 708-574-1134, oakparksegway.com Rickshaw Rick’s Tours and Taxi, 521 Thomas St., 773-771-3922, rickshawrick.com

Oak Park Antiques When you’re surrounded by Frank Lloyd Wright houses, it makes sense to specialize in Mission-and-Arts-and-Crafts furniture, and that’s exactly what Oak Park Antiques does. They’re helpful with shipping and transportation—just in case you fall in love with that dining room set that looks like the one in Wright’s museum — but aren’t sure how to get it home. 125 N. Marion St., Oak Park, 708-386-9640, etsy. com/shop/OakParkAntiques

candle photo courtesy of carefu peach boutique, all other Photos by fred bledsoe

By Laur a Hine

makeitbetter.net

9/9/13 11:47 AM

Marion Street Cheese Market Focusing on local, seasonal cuisine, the lunch menu has beautiful salads and sandwiches—plus a nice wine list!

Any sandwich with cheese as an ingredient is an excellent choice, but they have plenty of other options as well. 100 S. Marion St., 708-725-7200, marionstreetcheesemarket.com

CarefulPeach Boutique With French influences, CarefulPeach Boutique has lovely goods for home and gift giving. Linens, European treats, tableware (love the Juliska line) and vintage items are all beautifully displayed in this cozy store. 1024 North Blvd., Oak Park, 708-3833066, carefulpeach.com

Unity Temple For those smitten with Wright—book clubs who are reading “Loving Frank” for instance—add on a tour of Unity Temple. It’s an icon of modern architecture, and the story of its ongoing restoration is a testament to the devotion Wright inspires. It’s a stop on the walking tour, but admission is extra. 875 Lake St., 708383-8873, utrf.org

Prairie Bread Kitchen This local restaurant bakes its own sandwich breads, and then fills them with clever combos. Try the Cajun Chicken and Cheese as a hot, pressed sandwich, or the Greek Veggie. 103 N. Marion St., 708-445-1234, prairiebreadkitchen.com

For more shopping options, visit shopchicagochic.com for a rundown of Laura’s favorite boutiques.

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bet t e r you | fashion

Classic pieces can fortify your wardrobe for years to come. From the perfect bag to that gala-ready dress, we asked North Shore beauties and “Best Dressed” winners Cynthia La Schiazza and Robin Doerge to show off these timeless looks.

Professional advantage on cynthia

Sportsmax black and gray dress, $850, Frances Heffernan Kate Spade bag, $298, Kate Spade New York Dana Rebecca earrings, $6,600, Shirise Julieri bracelets, $3,410–4,230 each, Frances Heffernan Manolo Blahnik pumps, $625, Neiman Marcus on robin

Missoni dress, $895, Frances Heffernan Dressage bag with buckle, $2,295, Frances Heffernan Paloma Picasso Villa Paloma palm earrings in 18-karat gold, $2,250, Tiffany & Co. Tiffany Atlas bangle in 18-karat rose gold, $5,800, Tiffany & Co. Tiffany Atlas bangle in 18-karat rose gold with diamonds, $5,500, Tiffany & Co. Yves Saint Laurent Tribute Platform Pump, $795, Nordstrom

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Casually Classic on cynthia

Fabiana Filippi sweater, $1,670, Frances Heffernan Fuzzi black shirt, $200, Frances Heffernan Joe’s Jeans bootcut jeans, $185, Frances Heffernan Burberry bag, $1,495, Neiman Marcus Tiffany Atlas circle pendant in 18-karat white gold with diamonds, $2,800, Tiffany & Co. Tiffany Atlas earrings in 18-karat white gold with diamonds, $4,800, Tiffany & Co. Ring, model’s own Manolo Blahnik pumps, $625, Neiman Marcus

on robin

Chanel coat, $7,965, Neiman Marcus Majestic knit top, $110, Neiman Marcus Joe’s Jeans colored skinny jeans, $165, Frances Heffernan Tiffany Ziegfeld Collection pearl necklace in sterling silver, $1,000, Tiffany & Co. Tiffany Atlas earrings in 18-karat white gold with diamonds, $4,800, Tiffany & Co. Tiffany Atlas bangle in sterling silver, $875, Tiffany & Co. Tiffany Atlas bangle in 18-karat white gold with diamonds, Tiffany & Co., $9,000 Aquatalia “Upstart” brown leather and suede boot, $598, Shirise

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gala ready on robin

Burberry dress, $1,795, Neiman Marcus Kotur black and silver clutch, $495, Shirise Tiffany Ziegfeld Collection pearl necklace in sterling silver, $1,000, Tiffany & Co. Tiffany Ziegfeld Collection pearl tassel necklace in sterling silver, $1,200, Tiffany & Co. Tiffany Ziegfeld Collection ring in sterling silver with black spinel and diamonds, $1,500, Tiffany & Co. Tiffany Ziegfeld Collection bead ring in sterling silver, $175, Tiffany & Co. Tiffany Ziegfeld Collection pearl earrings in sterling silver, $450, Tiffany & Co. Jimmy Choo stilettos, $695, Neiman Marcus

on cynthia

Tom and Linda Platt sequin dress, $1,990, Lake Forest Shop Tiffany Circlet bracelet in platinum with diamonds, $17,500, Tiffany & Co. Victoria Diamond Stud Earrings in platinum, $7,800, Tiffany & Co. Ring, modelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own Valentino two-tone leather pump, $745, Shirise

styling by E va n g e l i n e P o l i t i s

photos by J o h n R e i l ly P h o t o g r a p h y

hair and makeup by SALON VOL E â&#x20AC;&#x2122; M a k e u p : J o s i e V o l epe n t e s t a Hair: Anthony and Danny V o l epe n t e s t a

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bet t e r you | fashion

armcandy by e va n g e l i n e p o l i t i s

The need to layer goes beyond clothing nowadays with the focus on how much you can stack on your wrist. A few selections from this collection of carefully curated wristwear is the perfect way to pick up the trend without overdoing the look.

Tiffany Atlas bangle in 18-karat rose gold, $5,800, Tiffany & Co.

Gramercy Crystal Watch, $250, Kate Spade New York

Tiffany Atlas bangle in 18-karat rose gold with diamonds, $5,500, Tiffany & Co. Tiffany Atlas bangle in 18-karat white gold with diamonds, $9,000, Tiffany & Co.

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Photo by john reilly photography

Julieri bracelets, $3,410â&#x20AC;&#x201C;4,230 each, Frances Heffernan

makeitbetter.net

9/10/13 10:54 AM

BY JENNY MUSLIN

Navy and Metallic Eyes

Regina Sneor, makeup artist and owner of D’Works, says, “Along with your basic black, navy is going to be huge this fall, from clothing to makeup. Incorporate the metallic trend by adding touches of silver for blondes and gold for brunettes.” To get the look: Pair navy eyeliner with metallic eye shadow.

Matte Nails

Tibi, Diane von Furstenberg and Karen Walker all sent models down the runway with no-shine manicures. Achieve this edgy look with matte polishes in rich shades like wine and charcoal.

To get the look: Try Deborah Lippmann’s “Red Silk Boxers” or OPI’s “Matte Nail Lacquer in Lincoln Park After Dark.” Or make any color matte with Essie’s “Matte About You” matte finisher.

Monochromatic Hair Color

It’s time to ditch the ombré highlights and colored streaks. This season, hair should look natural and all one color. According to Kim Avino, a senior colorist at Pascal Pour Elle in Glencoe, “Since your skin tone is paler in the fall, tone things down and go a bit deeper with your color to create some contrast. Rich chocolate and auburn are always in style.”

PHOTOS COURTESY OF MANUFACTURERS

Dark Lips

Sneor suggests layering a lip stain with your lipstick to create a stronger color. When the lipstick wears off, you’re still left with a gorgeous stain underneath. To get the look: For stain, try Serge Lutens Water Lip Color, and for lipstick, try Tom Ford Beauty’s array of highly pigmented shades.

For three more of the hottest trends in hair and makeup, visit makeitbetter.net/fallbeauty BELOW: Serge Lutens Water Lip Color in “Chardon,” $65, Barneys New York; Deborah Lippmann nail polish in “Red Silk Boxers,” $19, deborahlippmann.com; Essie “Matte About You” Finisher, $10, Nordstrom; Bobbi Brown Metallic Eye Shadow in “Burnt Sugar,” $21, Sephora; Retractable Waterproof Eyeliner in “Shimmering Midnight Blue,” $12, Sephora.

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BET T E R YOU | beauty

is your daughter ready for makeup?

quick tips for teens

BY JENNY MUSLIN

Frosted eyeshadow.

Raccoon-lined eyes.

Sound like your teenage daughter? She may have started wearing makeup but needs some pointers.

We’re here to help!

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Shimmer and Kiehl’s Tinted Lip Balm are all great options.

Visit a department store or Sephora makeup counter. The store makeup artist will do your daughter’s makeup for no cost but will expect you to purchase at least a product or two. Don’t spend your money on high-end mascara and lipgloss, and instead invest in a multi-functional makeup brush, quality powder or tinted moisturizer with SPF. A high school dance or important occasion is the perfect time to have a professional application. The makeup artist should let your daughter hold a hand mirror so she can learn the steps as the makeup is applied.

Teenage girls LOVE eyeliner. A thin coat along the upper lash line only in a neutral shade, such as dark gray or brown, works best. A liner “pen” goes on smoothly and is easiest to use.

Give your daughter Bobbi Brown Teenage Beauty or the Bobbi Brown Beauty Rules book. Brown’s philosophy is about wearing minimal makeup to enhance your natural beauty. These books cover the basics of makeup application and offer valuable skincare and makeup tips your daughter can apply to her routine.

TRY THESE:

1 Bobbi Brown Beauty Rules, $17, amazon.com 2 Maybelline Volum’ Express® The Falsies™ Mascara, $7.50, drugstores 3 Burt’s Bees Lip Shimmer in Watermelon, $5, drugstores 4 Clinique Acne Solutions Clearing Moisturizer, $20, Bloomingdales 5 Eyeko Skinny Liquid Eyeliner, $16, Sephora 6 Stila “one-step #33” complexion brush, $32, Nordstrom

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE MANUFACTURERS

GET YOUR TEEN IN THE habit of taking care of her skin from an early age. Start with an SPF moisturizer and daily cleanser. There are many on the market and each combat different skin types, from dry to oily. Clinique and Neutrogena make good, affordable versions.

A good eyebrow grooming can instantly open up eyes. Most salons, day spas, and some makeup counters (like Benefit) will tweeze or wax brows for a reasonable cost. Better that your daughter has her brows professionally plucked as opposed to her attempting it on her own and possibly over-tweezing.

Let her begin with the basics. Mascara and blush are a good place to start.

You can find quality mascara and blush at your drugstore. Also, a tinted lip balm, as opposed to lipstick, is easy for her to apply and age-appropriate.

CoverGirl Wet Slicks, Burt’s Bees Lip

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9/9/13 11:50 AM

sponsor e d con t e n t

Alan and Teddie Kossof

celebrating the best of 2013

teddie kossof salonspa Readers love Teddie Kossof, and

here’s why—they love making women (and men, too!) look and feel their best.

Teddie Kossof SalonSpa is an allencompassing salon and spa, offering head to toe beauty services. They are the only “concept” salon on Chicago’s North Shore, offering the very best in just about every beauty service available, and employing only the very best in highly-skilled, experienced staff. Clients have come to expect nothing but on-trend, top-notch style and service from a Teddie Kossof experience.

281 Waukegan Rd., Northfield 847-999-9500 • teddiekossof.com

BEST Photo by nathaniel perry

2013 Best no-chip mani Best mani/pedi Best facial Best hair color Best blow out Best Haircut

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9/10/13 2:14 PM

BET T E R YOU | fitness

5 cool accessories to keep you warm

BY CHRIST Y COUGHLIN MORNING TEMPERATURES ARE COOLER as

fall takes over—and you may be skeptical about carrying your workout forward into a chillier season.

Most runners will tell you: Fall weather will make your workouts feel easy and comfortable.

Our advice? Resist the urge to overdress. Dress in breathable layers you can shed as your body warms and the sun peeks out.

Consider these five cool options for the changing weather:

ARM SLEEVES

Wear these stylish half sleeves rather than committing to long sleeves for your workout. You can easily remove the sleeves and be left with your tank or a short sleeve—great for biking and running. Choose black, bright pink or even patterned options.

Zensah Arm Sleeves, available at Road Runner Sports, 3232 Lake Ave. Wilmette, roadrunnersports.com

HYDRATION HANDHELD

The drinking fountains are shut down for winter, but you still need to hydrate. This handheld water bottle fits easily in your palm and has a small pocket for an ID and a few dollars.

You won’t even notice it after a mile. Nathan Sprint Handheld Bottle Carrier, available on amazon.com

CAPRI TIGHTS

If shorts are a bit too brave when it is 40 degrees outside, pull on a pair of 3/4-length tights.

Your legs will stay warm but you won’t feel as restricted as you would in full-length tights. Sugoi Jackie Knicker, available at sugoi.com

NEOPRENE BIKE BOOTY

Biking in brisk conditions can cause your toes to go numb as your body keeps your core warm. These neoprene toe covers will prevent the cold air from penetrating your shoes, keeping your toes pedaling.

Pearl Izumi Elite Thermal Toe Cover available at biketiresdirect.com

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF EACH MANUFACTURER

LIGHTWEIGHT GLOVES

Your body keeps the core warm first, which often leaves your hands a little icy. These superlightweight gloves will get you through the chilly part of your workout. Tuck them away as your digits warm. Many pairs have a finger that allows use of your mobile device without removing the glove. Choose a bright color with reflective accents for added safety. Nike Women’s Lightweight Tech Run Gloves, available at runningwarehouse.com

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9/10/13 11:30 AM

SPONSOR E D CON T E N T

no more excuses: spend less time in the dental chair B Y W I L LO W F E S T I VA L D E N TA L MANY PEOPLE FEAR A TRIP to the dentist. The prospect of a cavity and the resulting need for a filling can weigh heavily on the mind. Add in the possible need for a crown or veneer to repair damaged teeth, and the dental visit quickly goes to the bottom of the to-do list.

Thankfully, innovation in dentistry has made tooth restoration easier, more convenient, more accurate, and overall less worrisome for patients. Willow Festival Dental’s office successfully uses CEREC® equipment, which provides for on-site creation of natural-looking ceramic fillings— in a single visit. Dr. Yuryk uses a digital camera to take an optical impression of the damaged tooth, designs the appropriate restoration using CAD software and mills it in the office. The milled restoration is extremely precise, very durable and made with biocompatible, tooth-colored material. In addition, the procedure allows the practice to treat patients more conservatively, as modern bonding techniques allow more healthy tooth structure to be saved. There’s no need for a temporary filling or crown and a return visit. From tooth preparation to placement and bonding, a patient can have his or her smile restored in less than an hour.

If you have any questions or would like to schedule an introductory visit, please give our office a call at 847-559-9550.

Willow Festival Dental 840 Willow Rd., Suite H, Northbrook dentistinnorthbrook.com

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9/9/13 12:15 PM

bet t e r you | finance

Meg Caswell, Kenilworth decorator, HGTV Star

worth the cost?

We all want our homes to be comfortable and beautiful, but what price will you pay for a highly functional and expertly decorated abode? Chicago interior designer Julia Buckingham Edelmann, who’s worked on many North Shore houses, says you generally can expect to spend 10 percent of your home’s purchase price for full interior design. Of course, many designers, including Edelmann, take on smaller projects like color consultation or space planning, and fees can range from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars.

Not only can professional interior design be costly, but homeowners now have access to more free decorating resources than ever before. HGTV and websites like Pinterest and Houzz are available 24/7 to inspire and inform us about how to create stylish spaces. So, we have to ask: Is an interior designer worth the cost?

Chicago public relations executive Orly Telisman reads design magazines and is an HGTV fan.

To Telisman’s delight, she was selected by HGTV to have her kitchen renovated by Meg Caswell, a Kenilworth native who hosts “Meg’s Great Rooms” and is a former winner of “HGTV Star.” After working with Caswell, Telisman says she’ll never redecorate another room without professional help. Telisman is interested in design, but considers paying a pro to be well worth the cost.

“Designers have training to think of this stuff differently,” Telisman says. I wouldn’t be able to watch Law and Order and become a lawyer, so why would I think I could watch HGTV and become a designer?”

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Experienced designers may actually help control the cost of renovations because of the resources they bring to the table. HGTV’s Caswell says part of the value she offers to clients is her long list of trusted carpenters, painters and other contractors.

“A lot of homeowners get in trouble when they hire the wrong [contractors] to bring their designs to life,” Caswell says. “[Designers] have access to furniture companies, lighting companies [and other vendors] that normally the general public cannot order from or don’t even know they exist.”

Deerfield designer Linda Eisenberg says professionals might be able to trim costs with solutions that are creative and stylish.

“Sometimes you have a great chair in the bedroom and you can reupholster it and put it in the entryway,” Eisenberg says. “A designer will see with a clear eye how to repurpose pieces.”

DIY-ing a home renovation means hours of scouring the web for inspiration photos and afternoons driving from one furniture store to another. If your time is money, Highland Park designer Paula Winter says hiring a professional may be worth the cost just for the hours you’ll save.

“I will put in hours and hours on a project, but we only need to sit around [the client’s] kitchen table for two or three hours to make decisions,” Winter says.

Photo courtesy of meg caswell

By Meghan Streit

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9/9/13 12:17 PM

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bet t e r you | sex & the suburbs

By Mar jie Killeen

have a better connection with their partners, but they don’t always know how to go about it.

Here’s a list of resources, ranging from websites to exotic retreats, that can help revitalize your relationship and make life more exciting.

Women and men long to

The James Hotel

Sexy Website: GetLusty.com

Sexy Field Trip: Weird Chicago’s Red Light District Sex Tour

Billed as the only sex tour in America, Weird Chicago’s three-hour bus tour with colorful guide and sexpert Sunny Megatron has received rave reviews. The tour includes stops at a number of blush-worthy Chicago locations you never knew existed, such as secret sex clubs, historical red light districts, S&M dungeons and more. Explore the naughty side of the city, and perhaps each other. If you have a group of like-minded, curious friends, this

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entire bus can be booked as a charter.

The cost for the tour is $40 per person.

(888-446-7859, weirdchicago.com) Sexy Workshops: TantraNova Institute, Chicago

Tantric yoga is not about crazy sex positions; it’s about connecting to and controlling sexual energy for greater pleasure in lovemaking and life.

Founders and life partners Dr. Elspeth Mueth and Freddy Zental Weaver offer a number of couples’ workshops in their spacious Chicago studio that are designed to create lasting intimacy, love and fulfillment. I attended their two-hour Introduction Workshop and it was relaxed, enlightening and not one bit embarrassing or graphic. (2031 Warner Ave., Chicago, 773-525-5006, tantranova.com) Sexy Hotels: Downtown Chicago

I’ve been a longtime fan of booking an evening at a hotel for an extraspecial date night. In Chicago, intimate boutique hotels like The James

(55 E. Ontario St., Chicago, 888-5263778, jameshotels.com/chicago) and The Dana (660 N. State St., Chicago, 312-202-6000, danahotelandspa.com) get high marks for sex appeal and romance.

Sexy Retreat: Esalen, Big Sur, Calif.

Esalen is a retreat center located on the beautiful Big Sur coast that offers all types of seminars, including a variety of courses designed for couples to strengthen communication, intimacy and sexuality. Many notable sex therapists and practitioners come to Esalen to teach. My sources recommend instructors Michaela Boehm and Caroline Muir, both with upcoming workshops, but there are many courses to choose from. The breathtaking spot is famous for its hot springs, discovered by the Esalen Indians and used for healing and rituals for more than 6,000 years. The springs are “clothing optional,” which makes any visit a sensuous experience. (55000 Highway 1, Big Sur, CA, 831-667-3000, esalen.org)

Photo courtesy of the james hotel

Founded by Chicagoans Erica Grigg and her husband Tim Walton, GetLusty is a website designed to put an end to boring sex. Couples can peruse articles focusing on five key areas of an amazing relationship: communication, technique, health, dates and adventure. Once you see an article that gets your pulse racing—for example, the pizza delivery role-play idea—you can note it on the site so your partner (privately) gets the message. GetLusty’s content is well-written, sex-positive and comprehensive. If you have a hankering to expand your knowledge or your repertoire, this is a fun place to start.

Membership prices range from free to $19.99/month.

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9/9/13 12:19 PM

Sexy Retreat: Getting the Love You Want

Harville Hendrix and Helen LaKelly Hunt, both Ph.D.s and authors of the new book “Making Marriage Simple,” give frequent seminars that help couples reach new levels of communication and awareness through spiritual growth. Seminars are held on the East Coast and in Arizona (harvillehendrix. com/events.php).

Other resources for couples: •B ooks, audio and workshops by

spiritual growth and sacred intimacy expert David Deida, author of “The Way of The Superior Man.” • The Center for Mindful Living, helmed by sex therapist Emily Harrell, conducts intensive couples’ retreats in Barrington similar to the one depicted in “Hope Springs.” 330 E. Main St., Barrington, 312-813-7701 • Psychologist and sex therapist David Schnarch offers intensive retreats in Evergreen, Colo. for couples looking to resurrect their relationship and sexual connection.

Marriage & Family Health Center (MFHC), 2922 Evergreen Parkway, Suite 310, Evergreen, CO, 303-6702630, crucibletherapy.com • Perhaps the most well-known marriage therapist and researcher, Dr. John Gottman and his wife, Julie Gottman, hold private couples’ retreats at their home on Orcas Island near Seattle designed to repair past hurts and help couples communicate better. (gottmancouplesretreats.com) • For a sexy afternoon outing, visit G Boutique in Bucktown to shop sex toys and lingerie. (2131 N. Damen Ave., Chicago, 773-235-1234, boutiqueg.com)

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BET T E R YOU | finance

at

BY JULIE CHERNOFF

Orchard. It’s really about the shopping; food is secondary. So while I thoroughly enjoy me some CPK and Maggiano’s, it’s not exactly destination dining—more like really tasty sustenance.

The landscape has changed with the arrival of Roka Akor. Started in Scottsdale in 2008, with newer outposts in San Francisco and Chicago’s River North, it’s a welcome addition to the North Shore dining scene.

The space is also much smaller than I had originally thought—only 72 seats indoors, with an outdoor seating area that faces the parking lot. Inside is where you want to be, with a view of the sparks flying off the robata grill, and the sushi chefs slicing and dicing the pristinely fresh fish.

And unlike the bustling, scene-y Chicago location, this place has a zen-like calm that I love. Even though the room was filled on recent visits, the sound level was pleasantly low, making it easier to focus on the food. Trust me, you will want to do just that.

Shochu? Don’t Mind if I Do. Creative, Asian-influenced specialty cocktails are a great way to start. Take the Shochu Smash ($12), a play on the Mojito. Here, a mango-thai Chile infused shochu (a liquor distilled from sweet potatoes or barley) is added to muddled mint, orange and lemon and served over crushed ice. I could say the same for the Roka 75 ($11), a refreshing sparkler that combines gin, blood orange bitters, lemon and lychee juice with sparkling wine.

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Are you a sake lover? You’ve come to the right place.

The list reads like poetry: “Melody of Water,” “Radiant Dew Drops” and “Drunken Whale?” Refer to the menu tasting notes to make your decision. If you’re still at sea, the servers are helpful and knowledgeable without fussiness.

The Waving Bonito I’m still haunted—in a good way—by the bonito flakes that twisted in the heated air atop the Grilled Shishito Peppers ($7.50), one of my favorite starters. You can eat the peppers whole, but beware … about one in 10 is going to be spicy, and there’s no way to tell until it announces itself in your mouth. Swig a little shochu if that happens.

Tuna Tataki ($16), ruby-red slices of ahi tuna lightly seared on the outside, are topped with pickled red onions, crispy garlic chips, and a crunchy tangle of shaved and julienne fresh veggies. Delish. We also loved the Omaha Prime Beef and Kimchee Dumplings ($9) with a vinegary dipping sauce, giving serious thought to a second order. The only disappointment was the Vegetable Tempura ($8); apparently the fryer wasn’t hot enough, because the normally crisp exterior crust was soggy with oil, although the whole shiso leaf was gorgeous.

Maki rolls were beautifully presented on long ceramic plates. I highly recommend the Crispy Prawn and Chirashi Roll ($18), tempura shrimp rolled in tempuraflaked rice with avocado, asparagus and cucumber, all topped with a mix of cubed raw fish (tuna, salmon and hamachi) and shaved root vegetables. It’s a meal in itself.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ROKA AKOR

THERE’S A CERTAIN EXPECTATION WHEN dining at Old

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Fireless Charcoal The real draw for me is the Robatayaki (“fireside cooking”), a uniquely Japanese style of slow grilling skewered morsels over blazing hot charcoal, ideally white oak. It sears in all the goodness. You can’t go wrong with any of the vegetable side dishes ($4.50 each), like the Sweet Potato in ginger teriyaki, or the charred Brussels Sprouts with grainy Japanese mustard and those sinuous bonito flakes.

The Yuzu-Miso Black Cod ($32) was a revelation; I can’t remember ever having fish this buttery. It arrives wrapped in a charred leaf, which helps seal in the moisture. The addition of yuzu to the miso adds a lovely, perfumed element to the dish. The pickled onions cut the richness of the fish in just the right way.

While the Chicken Teriyaki ($15) with shiitake mushroom salad and the Ginger Teriyaki Salmon ($19) are solid options, and the steaks smelled amazing, we were surprised by the depth of flavor found in the Wild Mushroom and Mountain Vegetable Rice Hotpot ($12). For an additional $5, they will gild it with real truffle oil, which plays off the mushrooms in a very yummy way. It was like a funky but delicious Japanese risotto.

Lunch is a viable choice here, and the specials are a bargain for the quality. The Maki Set ($16), a threesome of Salmon-Avocado, Tuna Maki and spicy, Crispy Butterfish, comes with miso soup, pickles and salad; Omaha Prime Beef ($18) from the robata grill is served with miso soup, rice and grilled veggies.

My favorite, though, was the Assorted Sashimi Salad with Chirashi Soy and Mixed Greens; it was incredibly fresh and flavorful.

Not Quite Done!

There are three desserts available, all made in house. The best was the fragrant Sesame Cake ($8), served warm, topped with mixed berry compote and paired with a scoop of coconut-lime sorbet. It was a lovely ending in a totally unexpected location—who knew one could eat so well at a shopping mall? I’m a doubter no more.

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DI N I NG

Top Pastry Picks

BY JULIE CHERNOFF

Fat Elvis pie from Hoosier Mama Pie Company

PIE, YOU WONDER? WHY, THERE’S always been pie, you insist. Pie just IS. To a degree, that’s true. It’s easy as pie…American as apple pie…what a cutie pie. But hold on to your hats, ‘cuz you haven’t seen nothin’ yet. Pie is about to EXPLODE, like cupcakes and doughnuts in years past. Don’t you want to be on top of the trend?

And not just any pie will do. Sure, you could head to Baker’s Square, where you’ll find no shortage of variety, but not a lot of originality, either. Let’s talk local. Where are the Chicago-area pie specialists?

Chi-Town is Pie Town

Michigan Sour Cherry Pie from First Slice Café

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The city is ahead of the suburbs on this particular curve. Chicago is quickly becoming a pie town, with some places built largely on a pie platform. Take, for instance, Bang Bang Pie & Biscuits in Logan Square (2051 N. California, Chicago, 773-276-8888, bangbangpie.com). They make just four flavors daily (fruit, chocolate, cream and savory) based on seasonal availability, and they often sell out, so I’d advise you to pre-order before driving down. While you’re there, stock up on their warm, from-scratch biscuits.

First Slice Pie Café in Andersonville (5357 N. Ashland Ave., Chicago, 773-275-4297) and Ravenswood (4401 N. Ravenswood Ave., Chicago, 773-506-7380, firstslice.org), run by the irrepressible Mary Ellen Diaz, a well-known Chicago pastry chef, is another great option, but with one difference. It’s more than just a restaurant; Diaz has made a commitment to feed the needy and homeless. So when you buy their delicious Raspberry Pear Balsamic or decadent

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French Silk Pie, you’re providing hope to a family that needs it. The best store name undoubtedly belongs to Hoosier Mama Pie Company (1618 ½ Chicago Ave., Chicago, 312-243-4846, hoosiermamapie.com) in Bucktown. You might have seen them at the Green City Farmer’s Market, which is where I first experienced them years ago. I’m thrilled because they’re opening a store in South Evanston this month; you can never be too close to this pie (named one of Bon Appetit’s “Top 10 Best Places for Pie” nationwide)! They make three different kinds of Chess Pie (Chocolate, Lemon or Vinegar), and their Fat Elvis Pie will cure any ill. I love their savory pies and quiches, too.

For the true pie fanatic, mark your calendar for Sunday, Oct. 20. That’s the date of the 9th Annual Bucktown Apple Pie Contest (bucktownapplepiecontest.com) at Holstein Park, and they mean business.

The Suburbs Love Pie, Too We’ve got some great pie options in the Northern Suburbs, too. Skokie’s Sweety Pies Bakery (8042 Lincoln Ave., Skokie, 847-213-0900, sweetypiesbakery.com) is just adorable. This family-run favorite has a Chocolate Cashmere Pie that will make you weep. And the Apple Pie Crisp…don’t get me started. You can also find them at the Evanston Farmers’ Market on Saturdays through the fall.

If you’re up in the Highwood area, you’ve got to stop in to the Bent Fork Bakery (335 Waukegan Ave., Highwood, 847-926-4483, thebentfork.com). I especially love their Fresh Fruit Crostatas, a rustic version of pie that comes in two sizes (as do their regular pies).

You’d expect Three Tarts Bakery (301 S. Happ Rd., Northfield, 847-446-5444, threetartsbakery.com) to excel in all things tart—or pie for that matter— and they certainly don’t disappoint. Summer meant

FAT ELVIS PHOTO BY COUSIN & COUSIN PHOTOGRPAHY; MICHIGAN SOUR CHERRY PIE PHOTO COURTESY OF FIRST SLICE CAFÉ

I present to you the next dessert craze: pie.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF DEERFIELD’S BAKERY

Coconut-Custard Whipped Cream pie from Deerfield’s Bakery

Peach Frangipane Tart, but weekends bring market-driven, fresh-fruit pie.

Stop in for “Pie Day Friday” or visit them at the Lake Bluff or Northfield farmers’ markets.

Deerfields Bakery (813 N. Waukegan Rd., Deerfield, 847-520-0068, 201 N. Buffalo Grove Rd., Buffalo Grove, deerfieldsbakery.com) has long been a favorite for pies on the North Shore.

The Banana-Whipped Cream or Coconut Custard Whipped Cream pies are my faves.

Evanstonians flock to Bennison’s Bakery (1000 Davis St., Evanston, 847328-9434, bennisonsbakery.com) for the Sack Apple Pie, which owner Jory Downer describes as pie crust filled with sliced fresh farm apples, topped with cinnamon and sugar, with a special shortbread dough on top to seal it. It’s put in a paper bag and baked, which seals in the juices and locks in all the flavor.

I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention the incredible pie at Prairie Grass Café (601 Skokie Blvd., Northbrook, 847205-4433, prairiegrasscafe.com), made from family recipes passed down by Chef Sarah Stegner’s talented mom, Elizabeth (who for many years actually made the pies herself). When it’s rhubarb season, you’ll find me there.

Pie-apalooza: No music, just good old-fashioned pie in its myriad forms.

Count me in.

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E N T E RTA I NM E N T | theatre

CADILLAC PALACE THEATRE “We Will Rock You” October 22–27 broadwayinchicago.com

ONCE October 9 – 27 | Oriental Theatre, 24 W. Randolph St., Chicago | 312-977-1700 broadwayinchicago.com The low-budget 2006 film “Once” charmed audiences with its tale of music and romance on the streets of Dublin. It seemed like a natural fit for the stage, and this adaptation won eight Tony Awards after hitting Broadway last year. The Tribune’s Chris Jones called it “gorgeously crafted and intensely moving.” Now, those of us who haven’t seen it in New York will get a chance in Chicago. (Don’t forget to tip any actual buskers you hear on the streets outside the theater.)

COMPULSION October 10–November 17 | Next Theatre, 927 Noyes St., Evanston | 847-475-1875 nexttheatre.org Meyer Levin wrote “Compulsion,” a novel about Chicago thrill-killers Leopold and Loeb, but this new play is about a different compulsion experienced by the author himself: his obsession with Anne Frank’s diary, which he helped bring to the world’s attention. The world-premiere play by Rinne Groff is directed by Devon de Mayo, who did a wonderful job at Next last year with “Everything Is Illuminated.”  THE NORTH CHINA LOVER September 25–November 10 | Lookingglass Theatre, 821 N. Michigan Ave., Chicago | 312337-0665 | lookingglasstheatre.org It’s the French Quarter of Southern Indochina in the 1930s. A poor 14-year-old 82

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schoolgirl captivates a wealthy 27-year-old Chinese aristocrat, who becomes her first lover. Marguerite Duras’ 1991 novel was inspired by her actual experiences growing up in that colonial milieu, and now Lookingglass ensemble member Heidi Stillman has adapted and directed this story of love, secrets and taboos.

NORTHANGER ABBEY October 2–November 10 | Remy Bumppo Theatre (at Greenhouse), 2257 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago | 773-244-8119 The first novel completed by Jane Austen concerns a 17-year-old girl who’s a little too obsessed with Gothic novels. And that makes this send-up of the genre perfectly timed for Halloween season. The estimable director Joanie Schultz directs this U.S. premiere of a new adaptation by Tim Luscombe for Remy Bumppo, a company that knows how to bring literature to life on the stage.

MARY POPPINS October 23–December 29 | Marriott Theatre, 10 Marriott Dr., Lincolnshire | 847-634-0200 marriotttheatre.com The magic umbrellas, chimney sweeps and nannies of Disney’s classic 1964 movie—and P.L. Travers’ children’s books— have made for a popular stage musical ever since this show debuted in 2004 in London. If this local production is up to the Marriott’s usual standards (and with Gary Griffin directing and Jeff winner Summer Naomi Smart in the title role, that’s a good bet) it should be a supercalifragilisticexpialidocious time for the whole family.

DRURY LANE “Hello, Dolly!”

October 17–January 5 drurylaneoakbrook.com GOODMAN THEATRE “Smokefall” October 5–November 3 goodmantheatre.org NEO-FUTURISTS “The Sovereign Statement” October 17–November 23 neofuturists.org PROFILES THEATRE “Wrecks” September 27–November 17 profilestheatre.org RED TAPE THEATRE “The Life and Death of Madam Barker” October 14–November 10 redtapetheatre.org STEEP THEATRE “Motortown” October 3–November 9 steeptheatre.com STEPPENWOLF THEATRE FOR YOUNG ADULTS “Lord of the Flies” October 16–November 10 steppenwolf.org THEATRE SEVEN OF CHICAGO “Unwilling and Hostile Instruments” September 30–October 27 theatreseven.org

PHOTO BY SEAN WILLIAMS

Halloween’s on the horizon, but there isn’t anything scary about the variety of plays planned on local stages in October. The dominant theme here is romance—not horror.

CHICAGO SHAKESPEARE THEATRE Blind Summit’s “The Table” October 16–27 chicagoshakes.com

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SPONSOR E D CON T E N T SPONSOR E D CON T E N T

nurturing creativity in your child through music

BY MUSIC INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO

children. It is a quality we value because it can be applied in virtually every area of life. Applied learning in music and other art forms presents a great opportunity to nurture creativity in our children. Here’s how it works: EARLY EXPOSURE AND EXPLORATION

It is well known that kids who experience being read to aloud from the earliest of ages tend to develop into fine readers in time for school. The same is true with music. When listening to, moving to and making music is a part of the family routine, children develop the basic skills and neurologic pathways that enable them to make music themselves.

Instead of wondering whether your children are gifted in music, go ahead and give them that gift yourself. This can be accomplished in the home by demonstrating your own love of music and also through dynamic music classes for parents and toddlers such as Musikgarten®.

ACQUISITION OF SKILLS

As children get older, it is important that they work to acquire basic musical skills. This is best accomplished through private instruction on a musical instrument. This can be compared to the acquisition of basic reading and writing skills in the early grades. Suzuki training, a method of teaching which involves close collaboration with parents, is often the best path for children ages four to six. If you prefer to wait until your child is in school, then regular private mu-

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sic instruction can begin in the early grades. Once a child has acquired a library of music skills, they can begin to express those skills in a creative way.

PERFORMANCE AND WORKSHOP ACTIVITIES

Musicians demonstrate their creativity by solving musical problems, incorporating a sense of aesthetics in their playing and by working and performing with other musicians in a musical context. Creativity blossoms in learning a great piece of music and playing with friends in chamber music ensembles. Creativity can also be developed through musical theater, especially a program where there is an emphasis on process rather than product.

The Music Institute of Chicago offers all these opportunities and more at conveniently located campuses in Winnetka, Lincolnshire, Lake Forest, Evanston and Chicago. In addition to private lessons (including Suzuki), instruction for all ages is available in Musikgarten®, chamber music, jazz studies and musical theater.

For more information visit musicinst.org or call 847-905-1500.

MUSICAL THEATER PHOTO COURTESY OF KATIE BARTHELEMY, ALL OTHERS COURTESY OF MIC

CREATIVITY IS AN ATTRIBUTE WE all hope to develop in our

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book l ist

sillyseason b y k e l ly k o n r a d

Just like a good chef appreciates a Twinkie once in a while, so it goes with book lovers.

Serious stories and true-life tales are immensely satisfying—but so is a good chuckle.

Here are eight great choices that deliver the funny:

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William Shakespeare’s Star Wars Ian Doescher You only thought you had every Star Wars book ever written. Now there’s one more—a super spiffy parody of the battle with the Dark Side, all in iambic pentameter.

Zombie Survival Guide: Complete Protection from the Living Dead Max Brooks Consider it the companion piece to Brooks’ “World War Z”—the guide is a how-to manual if you find yourself mano a mano with a brain eater.

Pride and Prejudice and Zombies Jane Austen and Seth Grahame-Smith A parody of a classic that launched a series of others, including “Sense and Sensibility and Sea Monsters.” Elizabeth Bennet is a badass.

Nightlight: A Parody The Harvard Lampoon If you are looking for quality satire, look no further than the Lampoon, with their quick-witted roast of the Stephanie Meyer trilogy.

Fifty Shades of Mr. Darcy William Codpiece Thwackery The wildly popular E.L. James trilogy is lambasted in this takeoff featuring Lizzy Steele and Christian Darcy.

A Game of Groans George R.R. Washington and Alan Goldsher Summer is coming. And with it, a send-up of almost every plot point from George R.R. Martin’s hit science fiction/fantasy series.

The Stinky Cheese Man and Other Fairly Stupid Tales Jon Sciezka and Lane Smith Don’t wait to introduce your kids to the art of parody. Sciezka and Smith’s work is imaginative, hilarious and wonderfully illustrated.

The Wit and Wisdom of Tyrion Lannister George R.R. Martin Proving even authors have a sense of humor about what’s popular and what’s not, Martin has penned an ode to fiction’s favorite little person of the moment, Tyrion Lannister.

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housemusic by va l h a l l e r

kids what house music is, they’ll be happy to tell you all about the music at the club last night. The sound is loud, repetitive, beatdriven electronic dance music created around 4/4 beats, drum machines, synthesized bass lines and offbeat hi-hat cymbals.

This style of music originated in Chicago and was popularized in the ‘80s at discotheques and dance clubs. It’s great dance music, if you’re of a certain age (not mine).

For me? House music means something completely different. It is music in my house. A house concert.

Some great perks come with my job, and this is one of them. I host house concerts in my living room. It’s Valslist in its purest form, bringing artist and fan together. I invite the artist and I invite my friends. We usually do Saturdays at 4 p.m., a time when everyone can come even if they have evening plans. These are special live concerts, in an intimate and comfortable setting, that last about an hour. For a music lover (artist and fan), an acoustic set in the quiet of someone’s living room, with artists sharing stories in between songs, taking questions from the audience, or trying out a new one they just wrote, is a rather magical gig. An artist’s manager once told me, “We’d rather play to a quiet room of 50 people versus a noisy bar of 200.” That says it all.

We host all types, from new emerging artists (rock band Flypaper), to those whose careers are skyrocketing (Andrew Belle), to an American Idol star (Crystal Bowersox), to a ‘70s legend (John Oates). Chatting with the artist after the show in an un-rushed setting, fans buying CDs and taking photos, makes for a solid connection between artist and fan. I’ll take music in my house anytime.

If you’d like more information about Valslist-sponsored house concerts, email us at val@valslist.com.

If you ask your older

OTHER ARTISTS we’ve hosted

Pat McKillen* (rock, singer/songwriter) Zach Heckendorf (alt-rock guitarist) Stone Blind Valentine* (bluegrass) Jann Klose (singer/songwriter)

Brad Cole* (alt-rock) Katie Todd Band* (alternative) Communist Daughter (rock) Anne Heaton* (singer/songwriter)

* local—would love to play in your living room too!

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BY CO CO K E E VA N

EMPOWER STUDENT-ATHLETES  Beyond Sports Foundation 847-748-8190 | supportbsf.org Develop young student-athletes into responsible, successful adults by donating to the Beyond Sports Foundation. BSF supports disadvantaged high school and collegiate student-athletes with academic, social, athletic and career development resources. BSF provides participants with academic tutoring and mentoring, career readiness, social and life skills support and sport-specific training.

One hundred percent of the graduates from BSF’s high school program have been accepted into college. Funds raised pay for school, test preparation, tutoring and athletic camps.

Checks can be made payable to Beyond Sports Foundation and mailed to 1350 Old Skokie Rd., Suite 205, Highland Park, IL, 60035.

SUPPORT AWARENESS OF MENTAL ILLNESS NAMI CCNS 847-716-2252 | namiccns.org Help educate and advocate on behalf of mental health by donating to NAMI-CCNS. As the North Suburbs’ chapter of the National Alliance on

Mental Illness, this organization aims to support and inform individuals struggling with mental illness, while offering their families resources to understand and cope. Donations fund hospital presentations, family courses, informational pamphlets and school presentations. For more information, contact development director Susan Ockerlund at susanockerlund.namiccns@ gmail.com.

PROMOTE LITERACY AND THE ARTS StudentsXpress 773-344-7123 | studentsxpress.com Support creativity and literacy in Chicago Public Schools by helping cover production costs for StudentsXpress, a magazine that showcases the original artwork and writing of students in Pre-K through eighth grade. Each issue focuses on a topic that directly affects elementary and middle school students, including teamwork, bullying and courage, and is distributed four times a year in 21 schools. To keep the magazine free, StudentsXpress is looking for donations to cover the costs of printing, production and delivery. For more information or to donate, visit studentsxpress.com or contact founder Rachel Switall at rachel@studentsxpress.com.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ASSOCIATION OF HORIZON AND THE BEYOND SPORTS FOUNDATION

M A K E A DI FFE R E NCE

DONATE CAMP SUPPLIES TO DISABLED ADULTS  Association of Horizon 847-452-0474 | associationofhorizon.org Association of Horizon, a summer camp for disabled adults, needs donations to help offset the cost of their programming. The camp, where people with and without physical disabilities transcend barriers and overcome limitations by combining recreation, learning and fun, is funded by private donations and fundraising events.

Donations of medical supplies, old holiday decorations and gift certificates can help empower and support campers.

For more information or to make a donation, contact Lori Moore at lori.moore@associationofhorizon.org or call 773-477-5170.

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Photo courtesy of Reading Power, INC.

required. A certified reading specialist offers ongoing training to volunteers, who must be available one half-day per week, either morning or afternoon, during the school year. Visit their website, readingpowerinc.org or contact Rebecca Mullen, M.S. Ed., at readingpowerinc@gmail.com for more information.

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Teach Children to read p Reading Power 815-867-7476 | readingpowerinc.org Reading Power, a literacy tutoring program serving elementary school children in the North Chicago public schools, District 187, needs volunteers. No experience is necessary; a love for children and reading is

Shop for a cause The Lake Forest Shop 847-234-0548 | thelakeforestshop.com Make your fall wardrobe revitalization count by shopping at The Lake Forest Shop. One of the North Shoreâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s specialty stores, The Lake Forest Shop is celebrating more than 90 years in business with its annual Shop the Cause event. Take the time to explore the cocktail, business casual or gala couture that makes The Lake Forest Shop one of a kind, and contribute 10 percent of every sale to a community nonprofit partner.

The event kicks off October 9, with a special appearance from Magaschoni President Denise Seegal. For more information, call 847-234-0548 or visit the shop at 265 Market Square in Lake Forest.

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M A K E A DI FFE R E NCE

better makers and their impact

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Spring Gala April 19, 2013 Auditorium Theatre, Roosevelt University and Grand Ballroom, Chicago Hilton $1,230,000 raised (1) Marilyn Slattery of Chicago, Women’s Board President Melissa Babcock of Kenilworth, Gala Co-Chair Astrid McKinnon of Kenilworth; (2) Annie McIntosh Atzeff with daughter and Joffrey Academy performer Eloise Atzeff of Lake Bluff, Academy Artistic Directors Anna Reznik and Alexei Kremnev; (3) Anne M. Bosio and Joffrey Board Member Andrew Appel of Northbrook; (4) Chairman of the Joffrey Ballet Board of Directors Zachary Lazar of Lake Forest, Chicago Mayor and Honorary Board Chairman Rahm Emanuel, Joffrey Artistic Director Ashley Wheater; (5) The Joffrey Ballet’s Community Engagement programs have provided quality arts-in-education to Chicago’s communities since 1996.

Make It Better was the media sponsor of this event.

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF BOB CARL AND HERBERT MIGDOLL

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M A K E A DI FFE R E NCE

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Ravinia Festival Women’s Board Gala July 27, 2013 Ravinia, Highland Park $1,200,000 raised

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(1) More than 75,000 people are served annually through Ravinia’s Reach*Teach*Play education programs, which include school and community outreach, lectures and family concerts; (2) Guests enjoying the cocktail reception; (3) Former Chairman of the FCC Newt Minow and wife Jo of Chicago with Senator Dick Durbin and wife Loretta; (4) Gala Co-Chairwoman Caroline Huebner and husband Charlie of Chicago.

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CHICAGO FORCE

“Decoding Annie Parker” Film Benefit July 25, 2013 Muvico Theater, Rosemont $50,000 raised

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(1) FORCE volunteers Heather Fineman, Paul Kredow and Sivan Schondorf, all of Highland Park, film director Steven Bernstein, Annie Parker, FORCE volunteers Stephanie Hlywak of Chicago, Tracy Snyder of Northbrook, Ziva GreenKredow of Highland Park; (2) Director Steven Bernstein also wrote the screenplay for “Decoding Annie Parker”; (3) Real life film inspiration Annie Parker and husband Michael with Dr. Kambiz Dowlatshahi and Valerie Landes from Novian Health, a developer of breast cancer therapy; (4) Women sporting the characteristic pink ribbons to support breast cancer awareness.

Make It Better was the media sponsor of this event.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF CHICAGO FORCE

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M A K E A DI FFE R E NCE

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CASA LAKE COUNTY

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Golf for a Child Invitational June 17 and June 24, 2013 North Suburban YMCA, Kemper Lakes $150,000 raised

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(1) CASA Lake County Executive Director Terri Zenner Greenberg of Chicago, Dan Brennan of Lake Forest, Jeff Persin and Ed Hartigan, both of Libertyville, and Jerry Stricker of Grayslake; (2) Long Drive Champion Mick Yelovich of Mt. Zion, CASA Lake County Director of Development and Communications Joanie Bayhack of Wilmette, Robert Mosky of Evanston; (3) Helene Berger of Glenview and CASA Advocate and Donor Susan Ardell of Northbrook; (4) CASA Lake County recruits, trains and supervises volunteer advocates for children in Lake County.

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SUDDEN UNEXPLAINED DEATH IN CHILDHOOD

Moves Like Tori July 20, 2013 North Suburban YMCA, Northbrook $30,000 raised

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(1) Tori’s family, aunt Emily Sandberg of Deerfield, parents Eric and Heather Wilensky of Northbrook, cousin and siblings, addressed the crowd about Tori and SUDC; (2) TOP ROW: Event committee volunteers Tiffany Sybert, Erin Denk, Sari Glazebrook, Nancy Mosko, Heather Wilensky all of Northbrook. Bottom row: Kim Klinghofer of Vernon Hills, Lisa Rome of Northbrook, Emily Sandberg of Deerfield; (3) DJs from Bizar Entertainment of Deerfield led the crowd dancing to Tori’s favorite song, Maroon 5’s “Moves Like Jagger”; (4) Tori Reese Wilensky passed away in her sleep from SUDC in August 2012, just a few days before her second birthday.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF NORTH SUBURBAN YMCA

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M A K E A DI FFE R E NCE | local treasure

woodlands academy Learning beyond textbooks B Y A L E X H AY

and recent high school graduate just returned from a 10-day service trip to Uganda with the organization KidsUganda, and she plans to pursue finance and international business at Georgetown University this fall.

“I want to combine work with businesses and nonprofits to improve economic growth in developing countries like Uganda,” she says. “I never would have been involved with anything like this if it wasn’t for Woodlands.”

McCarthy credits her serviceoriented education from Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart as the driving force behind her passion for helping people in need.

“At school, they will teach us about world problems, and then we go and discuss these issues with our friends,” she says. “Woodlands really promotes education on social issues. They want us to form opinions on these issues and then go act on them.”

THIS WINNETKA RESIDENT

WOODLANDS ACADEMY

BY THE NUMBERS

• More than 6,500 combined hours of service are completed by Woodlands Academy students each year.

• 70 hours: the minimum required number of service hours for each student over the course of the four years (though many students volunteer much more than that).

• 180 girls attend Woodlands Academy each year.

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A Catholic tradition Nestled on 41 wooded acres in Lake Forest, this private Catholic girls’ college preparatory and boarding school requires every one of its 180 students to complete 70 hours of community service before graduation. As part of a network of Sacred Heart schools in the United States, its education and service work are based around five goals: a personal and active faith in God, a deep respect for intellectual values, a social awareness that impels to ac-

tion, the building of community with Christian values, and personal growth in an atmosphere of wise freedom.

“Sacred Heart’s mission from the 1800s informs us today, and helps to restore hope,” says Head of School Gerry Grossman. “Our goal is to educate young women to lead others, to be attentive to the poor, to study injustice, and to create action to help people in need and learn from them. The girls learn to have a responsibility to justice, peace, and equity for all.”

The focus on service at Woodlands Academy often makes an impact on its students that stays with them throughout their lives, as evidenced at the annual spring Congé fundraiser, where parents and alums gather to raise money for scholarships for girls in need with great academic merit.

“It’s here that people show their continued faith and belief in the school and its mission,” says Tami Rocha, events coordinator at Woodlands Academy.

A commitment to service The approach that Woodlands Academy of the Sacred Heart takes towards service work brings to mind a quote from Gandhi: “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.”

“Woodlands treats service as a community project, to be together and enjoy each other while we do service together,” McCarthy says. “It’s really its own lifestyle.”

Service is more than just a requirement at Woodlands Academy—it is a way of life, and the commitment the girls make to serve others is one that they hold onto long past high school graduation.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF CAITLIN MCCARTHY

Caitlin McCarthy has big dreams.

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speci a l a dv e rt isi ng sect ion

local marketplace Plastic Surgery and Med Spa of Dr. Michael Byun Awarded “Best Plastic Surgeon” in 2012 and 2013 by Make It Better, Dr. Byun has locations in both the North Shore and downtown Chicago.

He specializes in procedures for the face, breasts, body and skincare.

1775 Walters Ave., Northbrook 847-513-6899 chicagocosmeticsurgery.com

Chelich’s Studio of Fine Art Classical artist Michael Chelich will be featured in a one man art show at the North Shore Art League, 620 Lincoln Ave., Winnetka, from Oct. 1st – 31st. Come by to see beautiful portraits, still lifes, landscapes and figurative paintings.

219-513-6039 Michaelchelich@hotmail.com Michaelchelich.com

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Dr. David Center, DDS Delivering experienced cosmetic and family dentistry for 30+ years.

Services include new laser dentistry, in-office laser whitening and Invisalign orthodontia. Check out our National Dental Reviews on our website.

Call about our New Patient offer!

9933 Lawler Ave., Skokie 847-677-0080 davidcenterdds.com

Personal Fitness Training, LTD. Providing personal training since 1991, it is our mission to motivate clients to achieve their personal fitness goals at our studio, or in their homes.

50% off a Comprehensive Fitness Assessment (reg. $80) 350 Linden Ave., Wilmette 847-251-6834 PFTL.net

9/10/13 4:32 PM

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made with love

Your best art will always be those made by the ones you love best.

Many thanks to our readers for sending in artwork from their children!

Clockwise from top left submitted by: Grace Federighi, artwork by Luca; June Murphy, artwork by Pat; Kerri Daniels, artwork by Churchill; Alison Olsen, artwork by Will; Nancy Rotering, artwork by Pete.

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