theYOUjournal february 2015

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February 2015

Beyond

Welcome to the Year of the Sheep!

by Long Hwa-shu Mien-nnnnn…..

Happy Chinese New Year! It’s the Year of the Sheep, ramming the previous Year of the Horse out of the picture.

Occidentally, the New Year falls on Thursday, Feb. 19.

The Year of the Sheep promises to be a good year. On the Chinese 12-animal zodiac, the sheep ranks Number 8, which the Chinese believe a very lucky number. Besides the sheep, the 11 other animals are: monkey, rooster, dog, pig, rat, ox, tiger, rabbit, dragon, snake and the exiting horse.

You are a sheep if you were born in 1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003 and, of course, this year on or after Feb. 19. By the way, sheep is pronounced “yang” in Chinese.

Sheep people are said to be artistic, creative, generous, compassionate and hard-working. They possess attributes that make them good artists, actors, actresses and scientists. And they generally won’t budge when cornered, so the Chinese say.

Among famous people born in the Year of the Sheep: Michelangelo, Mark Twain, Thomas Edison, Rudolph Valentino, Mikhail Gorbachev, Barbara Walters, Gene Hackman and George Harrison. In Chinese history, Emperor Taizong of the Tang Dynasty (618-907) was a sheep. China was strong and prosperous during his rule. The Chinese treasury was so filled with gold and silver that he thrice waived taxation.

Locally, both Kevin Lin and his wife, Vickie Yang, were both born in the Year of the Sheep in China, although several months apart. It is a rarity, considering they are husband and wife.

They and Vickie’s brother, George, are owners of the Asian Gourmet, an all-you-can-eat buffet restaurant in Gurnee.

Kevin, with 17 years of experience in cooking, is the chef whose signature dish is the sumptuous, rich-flavored Peking duck. He also surprises diners with his baking talents as shown by his delicious New York-style cheese cake. His wife is the congenial, always smiling general manager. As sheep people, they are a truly hard-working couple. George is the sushi chef, always on the job rolling out delicate, eye-appealing Japanese specialties.

Asked how it feels to be a sheep person, Kevin politely said, “I don’t feel any different.”

His wife chimed in, “We always work hard. It’s our habit. We consider the restaurant our home.”

The Chinese New Year is celebrated not just in China, but in Chinese communities throughout the world. In China it is celebrated as the Spring Festival which lasts 15 days. Government offices and stores are closed for at least three days to allow employees to go home for the holiday. Airlines, trains and buses are packed as people travel home for the family reunion. With more people owning cars, the roads are clogged. In the streets, firecrackers explode day and night, and the sky at night is painted with fireworks.

Good food in abundance is essential for the New Year celebration, especially the New Year’s Eve family reunion dinner. It is not unusual for a family to have 10 or 12 courses for the dinner. Even the poor will manage to save enough money for a spread because a bountiful New Year’s Eve dinner portends a prosperous New Year.

Indispensable on the dining table is a whole fish because, according to tradition, it symbolizes surplus. Surplus is pronounced “yu,” same as fish. After dinner, children are given red envelopes containing money. And New Year day is the time to wear new clothes and shoes.

Pam Lockowitz of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory in Libertyville, is gearing up to mess around with melted chocolate.

Pam, who owns the place with her husband Tom Lockowitz hand-dips abundant amounts of plump strawberries in milk, dark and white chocolate for the yearly lovers’ celebration which takes place February 14.

“It’s our busiest day of the year,” said Pam, who added that December happens to be the busiest month.

Giving chocolates, she says, “is a tradition—a sign of love and care.”

While her store boasts loads of heart-shaped boxes containing melt-inyour-mouth delights including the very popular truffles, the chocolate-dipped strawberries still rank No. 1.

“They are really the product of the day,” said Pam. “It’s what everybody asks for, and we sell them in the thousands.”

And showing your love does not come cheap. The chocolate-covered strawberries here sell for $26.95 per

What’s inside?

Chairman Lawlor, brings fresh ideas pg. 3

A black-faced sheep on a farm in Trevor, Wis. According to the Chinese calendar, 2015 is the Year of the Sheep. - Photo by Dr. Steven Brucki Dog Show Photos to delight! pg. 9

The Chinese character for sheep.

The New Year celebration usually ends on the 15th day with the Lantern Festival when children are given paper mache lanterns which come in various shapes like lotus, rabbit, tiger and, of course, sheep.

Dumplings, made of sweet rice flour with fillings from meat to shrimps to sweets, are eaten. It’s a delicious tradition that warms you when it’s cold outside.

Sheep people Vickie Yang and Kevin Lin own Asian Gourmet Restaurant in Gurnee. - photo by

pound, yet lovers are apparently more than willing to dole out for them.

But for those who wish to spend more on dinner than dessert – Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory offers another popular treat – scrumptious handdipped caramel apples.

The big Granny Smith’s on a stick range from $4.55 for just caramel, up to $9.55 for the Specialty apple boasting four toppings plus caramel. “We probably can make 25 different types of caramel apples,” said the owner.

Continued on page 10

Remember him?

Read “Where are they Now?” pg. 18

Tina Johansson

For businesses, Valentine’s Day is one of the sweetest

by Tina Johansson

Serving the North Shore

Chocolate-dipped strawberries are the biggest seller for Valentine’s Day at Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory in Libertyville. - photo courtesy of Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory

Innovative personal flat heater debuts pg. 5

State-of-the-art, urgent-care medical clinic opens pg. 5

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theYOUjournal

February 2015

theYOUjournal Established 2014

Publisher Long Hwa-shu Hwa-shu@theYOUjournal.com Editor in Chief Tina Johansson Tina@theYOUjournal.com Contributing Writers Dr. Jeannie Aschkenasy Michele Batz, Ph.D. Alisa Bay Hope Forcier Kyle Jones Kathleen King Odie Pahl -

A host of guest writers

Relay for Life meeting

at

River Trail School in Gurnee February 7th, 11:30 a.m.

Are you ready to kick off your 2015 by making a difference in the fight against cancer?

Invite your family and friends to join you on Saturday, February 7th at 11:30 AM at River Trail School in Gurnee as we share information about our Relay For Life event.

Come learn how you can help the American Cancer Society make a difference in the fight against cancer by participating in the Relay For Life of Gurnee Wadsworth!

We hope to see you there! The more of us there are the bigger the impact we can make!

For more information contact Kelly at relaygurnee@comcast.net.

Peeking sheep

Please contact us at:

US@theYOUjournal.com 847.293.7028 theYOUjournal P.O. Box 540 Wadsworth IL 60083

www.theYOUjournal.com

Your suggestions, comments and story ideas are welcome.

A Dragon-Tiger Enterprises Publication

Curious sheep peek out from inside a barn in Trevor, Wis. Sheep are considered good luck by the Chinese this year as 2015 is the Year of the Sheep according to the lunar calendar. - photo by Dr. Steven Brucki

Attorney’s gather at LCPIA

Quotables Three local attorney’s gave separate presentations at the Lake County Property Investors Association meeting held at In-Laws Restaurant in Gurnee.

From left is Jeff Frost who discussed various types of business entities; Lake County Circuit Clerk of Courts Keith Brin, talked about his office operations; and far right Melburn Laundry, a Living Trust Estate Planning attorney gave a presentation on creditor protection trust planning. His wife Suzanne Laundry, third from left, is a Lake County Republican precinct committeeman. - photo by Tina Johansson

This month we celebrate the birthday of the Father of our Country George Washington. He was born 283-years ago on February 22.

Here he speaks of the virtues of discipline:

“Discipline is the soul of an army. It makes small numbers formidable; procures success to the weak, and esteem to all,” - George Washington, first president of the United States of America

theYOUjournal

February 2015

3

The County Beat

Culture of Change

Youngest county board chairman implements fresh ideas

by Long Hwa-shu As befitting the youngest County Board chairman of Lake County, Aaron Lawlor, 32, is full of ideas to make the county forge ahead as an ideal place to live and work in the Chicago area.

He has, in fact, started to change the culture on how the various municipalities can work together, instead of competing against one another in procurement, for instance, for road salt and office supplies. One of his priorities is to consolidate the 911 services, currently scattered all over the county.

The reason behind the consolidation and the pulling together of all the buying power is to save money, especially when municipalities are faced with the need to tighten their budgets, if not struggling with shortfalls.

“By banding together, we can build an economy of scale to save money and get things done more quickly and efficiently,” said Lawlor who has been on the county board five years and as chairman for the last two years.

A 2000 graduate of Libertyville High School, Lawlor of Vernon Hills where he grew up has a bachelor’s degree in political science from Lake Forest College and an MBA from the Lake Forest Graduate School of Management.

For seven years he worked as a top aide and political director for former 10th District Congressman Mark Kirk, now a U.S. senator from Illinois.

Modestly, Lawlor, tall and affable, acknowledged that some of these money-saving ideas were not his originally, but he said he is determined to try to translate them into realities.

There are, according to him, over 20 public safety answering points (911 call centers) spread all over the county. Municipalities, police and fire departments spend an estimated $33 million a year operating them.

“With new technology in communications, calls can be handled at fewer locations without compromising the quality of services,” said Lawlor who broached the idea and others at a recent Lake County Leadership Summit he chaired. The meeting, held at the Gurnee Holiday Inn, drew more than 150 government, business and civic leaders for an exchange of views and ideas.

By consolidating the 911 call centers, as much as $10 million could be saved, Lawlor pointed out.

The county, he said, is forming a task force of mayors, police chiefs and other key leaders to find out whether it should have four call centers with each serving a quadrant of the county or less.

“We want to see what options are available for consolidation and what the best model could

be,” he said.

Until the county under him spearheaded a collective effort for the 27 municipalities and townships to purchase road salt together, there was “little collaboration” inter-governmentally.

They had relied on the state for a procurement process that not only cost more but also caused delays in delivery.

By banding together in salt purchase this year, the county was able to fetch a contract price of $67 per ton, versus the $75 - $130 price range from bids through the state.

To leverage its massive buying power on office and janitorial supplies, the county uses national cooperative purchasing contracts through National Joint Powers Alliance not only for itself, but also for participating municipalities and other government bodies. The United Way has made it possible to achieve savings up to 62 percent, he said.

To save money and to gain efficiency, several villages including Lindenhurst, Hainesville, Indian Creek and Round Lake have entered into an agreement with the county whereby the county will provide all or some of their planning services and review followed by code enforcement. These services are being made to them by the Lake County Planning, Building and Development Department at cost without additional staff.

“When you add it all up, we are working to make the process as efficient and cost-effective as possible,” Lawlor said.

Several municipalities including Highland Park and Lake Forest, he said, have already joined together in elevator inspection by adopting the same set of safety requirements and by contracting the inspection services out through joint bidding.

Lawlor said he is leading an effort to make the county a place for young people to stay and work. With the healthcare industry the bedrock, he said he wants to see startups in bio-tech and life science.

He pointed to the choice by AKHAN Technologies of Hoffman Estates to locate its semiconductor operations to Gurnee and the acquisition by Zebra Technologies of Motorola’s barcoding business as prime examples of the expansion of Lake County’s economic base.

AKHAN is expected to create 80 new jobs initially in its Gurnee plant.

Meanwhile, Lawlor said he is trying to stem the flow of area companies across the border to Wisconsin.

Lake County, he stressed, has a superior labor force in that “42 percent of its population (703,000 people) has a bachelor’s degree.”

“Lake County is a great place to live and work,” he said, pointing out that it has a forest preserve “that’s second to none” with 31,100

acres of land and 182 miles of trail, plus other amenities.

The county board chairman explains the need to consolidate 911 call centers to save money. The move, he said, would not affect the quality of service.

Chairman Aaron Lawlor speaks of the need for municipalities to band together to increase purchasing power.

Publisher Long Hwa-shu conducts an interview with Lake County board chairman Aaron Lawlor at the Lake County Central Permit Facility in Libertyville. - photos by Tina Johansson

Lake County’s economic power at a glance * 89 percent of residents have graduated high school * 42 percent of residents have a bachelor’s degree or higher * Four of Illinois’ top ten school systems are here * Median income = $79,085 ---The highest in the state * Home to 30,000 businesses

* Eleven of the Fortune 500 companies are here * Home to Navy Station Great Lakes, the nation’s largest training facility * Three County-Wide government agencies that all have “Triple A” Bond Rating --- The Highest Possible --- are: Lake County, Lake County Forest Preserves, and College of Lake County.

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theYOUjournal

February 2015

Local Business

Growing its business, Highwood maintains small-town charm

by Tina Johansson For Jennifer Zanotti Ori, there’s no place like home.

The second year Highwood Chamber of Commerce president and six-year board member says she feels drawn to the little, charming town like no other.

“I attended Highland Park High School and all my friends went there,” she said. “Today I love living in Highwood and being president of the chamber of this tight-knit community. It has a special place in my heart.”

She grew up “just down the street” from Highwood, though her family made downtown Highwood their own. Restaurants, shopping, and the Highwood Bocce Club were all places they frequented.

And while a number of her classmates eventually moved away to big cities, Zanotti Ori stayed close by, albeit living in Los Angeles for a short time to learn film and television makeup.

“Now a lot of them want to come back,” she said. “I think people like it here because it’s like a little city, but you get that small town feel.”

Residential real estate in Highland Park’s little brother, has been selling like hot cakes. “It’s a great area, especially with the train passing through,” she said.

As chamber president, Zanotti Ori said she gets to highlight events and business in Highwood—something she enjoys. “It’s really important for me to see that people get that experience so they know what it is we have to offer.”

Highwood is recognized by many as the most prominent dining spot in Lake County. The chamber president estimates that for all the businesses in the city of 5,500, approximately 75-percent are eateries.

Though the unique Highwood business community appears to be growing bigger and better each year, the goal for 2015, said Zanotti Ori, is to drive more traffic to the doors of businesses, and to have more ribbon cuttings and networking mixers.

The chamber president who is married to Michael Ori, a construction superintendent, said she expects to see new “fabulous” restaurants open and a planned music venue this year. On her wish list are clothing boutiques and an organic grocery.

Zanotti Ori’s own business, Z’s Beauty Ser-

Among the other events the Highwood Chamber of Commerce has a hand in the Garlic Fest, Bloody Mary Fest and the Evening Market.

There are about 90 members in the Highwood Chamber of Commerce, with room for more.

“It’s only $175 a year to join,” said Zanotti Ori, who noted the many benefits that accompany membership.

For more information visit: www.Highwood ChamberofCommerce.com and www.CelebrateHighwood.com.

Jennifer Zanotti Ori, Highwood Chamber president. - photo courtesy of Jennifer

Because of the many eateries here, Highwood came to be known as the dining capital of Lake County.

Left, samples at the annual Bloody Mary Festival, one of the Chamber’s popular events. -photo courtesy of the Highwood Chamber of Commerce

Zanotti Ori

Highwood Bocce Club

Highwood Chamber of Commerce president Jennifer Zanotti Ori is hopeful the city gets some clothing boutiques and an organic grocery. -photos by Tina Johansson vices, is technically located in Highland Park “a skip” from Highwood. However she included it in the wildly popular Girls Night Out last fall which brought more than 150 Highwood and Highland Park shoppers together for one night.

Another is planned for this spring.

Gearing up for Valentine’s Day

The Highwood Bocce Club was the site of the recent annual Highwood Chamber of Commerce dinner and meeting. The private Club was formed in 1969, where Bocce was first played outdoors. In the early 70s the court was enclosed.

Recently the Club brought in Aurelio Colleoni, a prestigious firm from Gorgonzola, Italy, to install world-class regulation surfaces.

It has played host to the U.S. National Championships and World Cup. The Club has given multiple generations of players the opportunity to enjoy the finest courts and equipment in the country. - photos by Tina Johansson

What’s This?

“I used this low tech pocket postal scale as a promotional gift for clients in the 1970s. It was produced by the Triner Scale and Manufacturing Company, Chicago. If you put your letter in the clip and hold the loop the wire indicator will swing to the proper weight up to four ounces. In spite of its low tech nature it came with a five-year warranty. I have two or three of these left and they still work! The scale has a carrying case with the postal rates included – First Class 13 cents, Air Mail 17 cents.” - Betty Nicholas of Libertyville Left, Michele Balmes, owner Laura Sherrick, and Valerie Barrett with red roses and cuddly Teddy bears for Valentines Day at Balmes Flowers in Gurnee. - photo by Tina

Johansson

Please send a photo and descripton of your gadget, gizmo or any unusual item to US@theYOUjournal.com and we may put it in our paper!

theYOUjournal

February 2015

5

Local Business

State-of-the-art clinic offers affordable urgent care

by Long Hwa-shu Injured with cuts, scrapes, burns and fractures, the place to go may well be PromptMed at 724 N. Green Bay Road in Waukegan.

It grand-opened Jan. 15 with Mayor Wayne Motley cutting the ribbon and welcoming the owners for locating the spic and span, state-ofthe-art facility in Waukegan.

As the name suggests, it provides urgent care fast but at affordable rates. PromptMed, an independent, privately-owned clinic, treats nonlife threating injuries with hardly any wait, according to Hunter A. Davis, president and CEO. The average wait time at a hospital emergency room can be as long as four hours, he said.

With emergency rooms often crowded, the new facility can help ease such crowding, “We can get you out as quickly as possible, and our cost is about one-sixth what a hospital would charge,” said Davis of Chicago, who has an MBA from the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania.

In addition to injuries, PromptMed treats colds and viral illness such as flu, bronchitis and pneumonia, as well as asthma and allergic reactions. It also treats ear, eye and urinary infections. Flu shots and other vaccinations are also available.

PromptMed is located in the former BlockBuster Video store across from Starbucks. The

3,700-square-foot facility includes five examination rooms, two procedure rooms where patients are treated, a radiology room and a lab for testing blood, urine and other samples.

It is staffed by seven people with Dr. John V. Jurica as the medical director. Dr. Jurica, formerly of Rockford, has 20 years of experience as a family physician.

Davis and Dr. Jurica are among seven investors who have spent over $700,000 for the venture including extensive remodeling and installing what they describe as state-of-the-art urgent

Waukegan Chamber members and officials including Mayor Wayne Motley, fourth from left and president and CEO of PromptMed Hunter Davis, in red tie, cut the ribbon.

Physician Assistant Melissa Schramm looks over a chart in the brand new stateof-the-art urgent care clinic - PromptMed in Waukegan. -photo by Tina Johansson

care equipment.

“We looked around in the Chicago area and saw a need here. Waukegan is under-served in urgent care,” said Davis who previously worked on Wall Street in private equity funding and investment.

PromptMed is open 8 a.m. - 8 p.m., Monday through Friday; and 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Saturday and

Sunday. The phone number is 847.901.8400.

All major insurance plans are accepted.

However, medical insurance is not required. Affordable discounted self-pay rates are available, said the company.

If the venture proves successful, Davis said the company may branch out with other locations in future.

People warming up to thin, leading-edge heater

by Long Hwa-shu & Tina Johansson A heater using molecular technology is expected to revolutionize the space heating industry, starting right here in Chicago.

It is ultra-thin, about one inch in thickness, and light weight. It is environmentally friendly and energy efficient. The main heating element is a carbon crystal panel embedded with carbon molecules. When activated by a small electric current, the molecules become agitated. They vibrate and collide with one another—movements the eyes can’t see.

In the process, they generate far infrared radiant heat.

Sean Liu, a Chicago medical research physician, who imports the heaters from China, was reluctant to get into the business at first. Dr. Liu is an anesthesiologist and also an oncologist, trained both in China and at the University of Chicago.

He was in Jinan in north China a couple of years ago, attending a medical meeting. An executive from the Shandong Dexiang Electrical Technology Co., manufacturer of the carbon crystal space heaters, spotted him after noticing the name tag he was wearing showing that he was from Chicago.

The executive, a woman, was looking for an importer. She asked him if Chicago was cold in winter. “Very much so,” he told her.

The woman, with a chauffeured car waiting, talked him into taking a tour of the company plant. He demurred but finally obliged. Liu was impressed by what he saw.

The company was making a variety of space heaters for different applications including models for use in an office, bedroom and bathroom. Some can hang from the ceiling or mount on the wall. Others are for use on the floor or for room dividers.

Carbon crystal heaters, he was told, had been hot-selling in China for nearly five years then.

“I was wondering why I had never seen one or heard about it in America,” Liu recalled of his initial reaction.

Back in Chicago he did some research about the industry, and after due diligence decided to go into the business full time. He formed WXY Partners LLC with four partners and began importing the heaters from the manufacturer. As the principal owner of WXY, Liu is the president of the company based in Bensenville where they plan to assemble the products eventually.

“Currently, we’re selling direct to our customers. But we’re in talks with some mass merchandisers to carry them,” said Liu who was manning a booth at the recent Home Building & Remodeling Expo at the Lake County Fairgrounds in Grayslake. With him were three of his four partners: Noel Zucek of Schaumburg, Stephen Csar of Morton Grove and Mark Evans of Chicago. The fourth, Gene Ahner was absent from the show.

Their booth attracted many a show-goer who apparently marveled at the heater which can double as a decoration when the facing is fitted with a picture, a photo or a painting.

“It can easily be a conversation piece,” said Zucek.

The heater is environmentally friendly and ultra-safe because the heating panel is non-flammable and has built-in temperature sensors, Csar pointed out.

“It’s totally green and completely quiet,” he said.

Evans pointed to the heater’s energy efficiency. It consumes less than 10 percent of the energy used by a traditional heater. One model with a wattage of 150 is one-inch thick, 16 inches-tall and 24-inches wide – ideal for office, bedroom or bathroom. The cost of energy consumption is about one cent per hour for the model.

“We’re hoping to find desk manufacturers to integrate the heaters into office furniture,” said Evans.

The partners are trusting their heaters will be selling like hot cakes in Midwest’s long, cold winter.

The heaters can be viewed via the company’s web site: www.CrystalComfortHeat.com or call 888.288.2386 for more information.

Four of the five partners for Crystal Comfort innovative, flat heaters. From left is principal owner Sean Liu, Noel Zucek, Stephen Csar, and Mark Evans. Not present is Gene Ahner.

Above, Crystal Comfort partners sell the heaters at a recent Home Show in Grayslake. Note the heaters behind which look like paintings. The personal heaters can be outfitted with special art work.

Noel Zucek, right, displays a carbon crystal panel like the ones used in the heaters.

- photos by Tina Johansson

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theYOUjournal February 2015

Fund-raiser to honor Artis Yancey Feb. 3

Someone You Should Know

Julie Ludwick offers healing through Art Julie Ludwick is a registered art therapist and a licensed clinical professional counselor in the State of Illinois. With a Master of Arts in Art Therapy from The School of the Art Institute in Chicago, Julie has worked as an art therapist at Equestrian Connection since 2006. Located in Lake Forest, Equestrian Connection is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization offering therapy primarily (although not exclusively) with the use of horses. The organization serves children and adults with special needs from all over the greater Chicagoland area, ranging in age from 16 months to 85 years old.

by Alisa Bay

Artis Yancey, first African-American coroner of Lake County and Waukegan clerk died one year ago.

What did you want to be when you were a little girl?

I always wanted to be a Walt Disney animator.

Before he died last year, Artis Yancey, former Waukegan chief of police and the first African -American coroner for Lake County, took 20 teens last year on a tour of historically black colleges and universities.

He did it because he wanted to inspire them to go to college to better themselves.

Mr. Yancey passed away March 19, 2014 after collapsing in his home. He was just 54 and at the time, the first African-American city clerk of Waukegan.

Yancey himself is an inspiration. A 1978 graduate of Waukegan High School, he received a bachelor’s degree from Northeastern University and a master’s degree in criminal justice from Lewis University. His public service included 21 years in law enforcement.

Soft-spoken and mild-mannered, he was, by all accounts, a gentleman law man.

To honor and continue his legacy, the Waukegan Township and its partners will inaugurate the Artis Yancey Historically Black Colleges and Universities Tour to raise funds for its mission on Feb. 3 at the Waukegan Yacht Club. The event begins at 5 p.m.

Jesse White, secretary of state, will be the keynote speaker.

Tickets are $50 which will include hors d’oeuvres. There will be a cash bar. Live music will be by the Thomas Brothers Band. Among other programs will be a silent auction for items including a 50-inch flat screen TV, a professional golf bag and gift certificates. Donations will be tax-deductible.

Proceeds will benefit and help defray costs for the planned tour which will cover colleges and universities on the east coast.

For more information about the event, call Cheryl Dunlap at 847-244-4900. – by Long

What was your favorite childhood television program, and why?

Winnie the Pooh was my absolute favorite. I loved all of the characters, especially Tigger!

Hwa-shu

If you could live anywhere in the world, where would it be?

I would love to live on the Galapagos Islands.

What motivates you to work hard?

My motivation to work hard comes from wanting to continue growing as a person and trying to bring light to the people around me.

What is your proudest accomplishment?

One of my proudest accomplishments is implementing the Art Therapy program at Equestrian Connection. The program has grown considerably since I helped start it in 2006 and now employs two art therapists.

If you couldn’t be an art therapist, what would you be?

I’d probably be a wildlife photographer or an illustrator.

What’s your favorite book or movie, and why?

Most recently, it would have to be Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail. I couldn’t put it down! It’s the true story of one woman’s journey to self-discovery, and was made into a movie with Reese Witherspoon.

The book reached No. 1 on the New York Times Best Seller list, and I can understand why.

If you could only eat one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?

I never get tired of pizza! I just wish it was

Julie Ludwick, ATR and LCPC, is an Art Therapist at Equestrian Connection in Lake Forest. -photo courtesy of Julie Ludwick healthy for me!

What are some of your hobbies?

I enjoy nature and all outdoor activities including hiking. I also like games, art and animals.

Wow, I have so many! If I had to pick one, it would be my family’s vegetable stew.

What’s your favorite family tradition?

It’s very simple. Just being active together.

Aside from food, water, and shelter, what one thing could you not go a day without?

I could not go a single day without creativity!

Do you collect anything?

Oh, yes! I collect rocks, shells, sticks, sea glass and many other objects in nature.

Would you rather win the lottery or work at the perfect job?

That’s a tough one. My answer would be, BOTH!

Which of the five senses would you say is your strongest?

Without a doubt, it would be touch.

If you could be any animal, what would it be?

I’d have to say, an elephant. They are truly amazing creatures.

What three words best describe you?

Creative, driven, and friendly.

Where do you see yourself in 10 years?

I see myself continuing to be an artist and working to create positive change.

If you were a super-hero what powers would you have?

To teleport! I commute from Chicago every day, so it would be incredible if my super-hero powers would allow me to be transported in an instant!

Who was your favorite teacher in school and why?

My favorite teacher was Dr. Steven Schlossman. He inspired me to apply to the graduate program at The School of the Art Institute of Chicago, leading me to Chicago, art therapy, and then Equestrian Connection!

How many languages do you speak and what are they?

I speak one and a half languages: English and some basic American Sign Language.

For more information about Julie Ludwick, the art therapy program at Equestrian Connection and other programs that are offered, please visit www.equestrianconnection.org.

What is your favorite family recipe?

Out on the Town Genesee Theatre

Spank! The Fifty Shades Parody : Thursday, February 12, 2015 at 7:30 PM. Tickets $29.50$37.50 Spank! The Fifty Shades Parody is the whip smart comedy that takes on the naughty fun of the best selling book and highly anticipated movie, and brings it to outrageous life!

John Tartaglia’s ImaginOcean: Saturday, February 14 at 11:00am & 2:00 pm. Tickets $9 & $12 Tony-Award nominee, John Tartaglia starred in the acclaimed musical Avenue Q, appeared

on Broadway in Shrek the Musical, and in Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. Now he has grown some creative gills with the production of John Tartaglia’s ImaginOcean. This is a one-of-akind show for kids of all ages.

Black Violin: Friday, February 20 at 8:00 pm Tickets $20-$35 Voted Top 5 New Bands at SXSW in 2013! To most people, jazz, hip-hop, funk, and classical are musical genres. But to revolutionary music group, Black Violin, they’re nothing but ingre-

dients. Combining a daunting array of musical styles and influences to produce a signature sound that is not quite maestro, this group of two classically trained violinists and their DJ is redefining the music world one string at a time.

With influences ranging from Back to Jay-Z, Black Violin breaks all the rules, blending the classical with the modern to create something rare.

Rodney Carrington: Here Comes the Truth (Mature Audiences Only) : Sunday, February 22, 2015 at 7:00 pm. Tickets are $38 & $48

Rodney Carrington has been making audiences laugh for almost twenty years with his unique brand of stand-up comedy. The Country Singer-songwriter has recorded eight major label comedy albums selling more than two million copies. VIP Meet & Greet packages available!

Genesee Theatre is at 203 N. Genesee St., Waukegan. Tickets are available by visiting the Genesee Theatre box office, all Ticketmaster outlets, Ticketmaster. com & Ticketmaster charge by phones at 800.982. 2787

theYOUjournal

February 2015

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Flower child look blooms again Ami Ami fashionista recalls the day

by Long Hwa-shu The Baby Doll look is back!

Merrie Spade, owner of Ami Ami, a high fashion boutique in Highland Park, said the trend to bring back the flower child of the early 70s was evident at the spring fashion shows.

“It’s fun and nostalgic of the early 70s,” said Spade who fondly recalled that she herself was dressed like a flower child in those days.

“I’m happy it’s back in style. Fashions do run in cycles,” she added, all but conceding that there are only so many styles to go around.

But the brushed-up new look will be in full bloom this summer, highlighted by tie-dye, trapeze dresses, baby doll outfits with flower power floral in burgundy, blue, coral and pink.

The skirts will either be short to amply show the knees or maxi-long for fall.

“Crop-tops, fringe and straw bags are on their way back in,” said Spade, who was born in Teaneck, N.Y., but has been a fashion guru for many years on the North Shore. She started Sauvage, her first store, in 1984 in Glencoe. In 1992 she opened a store in Highland Park, and later Ami Ami in Deerfield. She also managed Scarborough Fair in Glencoe. The Ami Ami at 668 Central Avenue in Highland Park opened in September.

For the latest look, jackets will be loose and less structured, sporting the “my boyfriend’s jacket look,” said Spade, who as a teenager helped design shoes for her late father. And wear boots, she said, pointing out that they nev-

er go out of style.

The net result is a look with Bohemian chic with just enough edge to mix things up to bring out “the flower child in us all.”

On the North Shore and beyond, Spade has her loyal following – buying from her since they were young, she said. After they got married, they would bring their children to her.

Like fashion, the cycle keeps turning. Ami Ami carries clothing from everyday wear to upscale outerwear to evening attire, plus jewelry.

Spade has brought in her daughter, Stacey Skolnick, as a co-owner to the 1,000-squarefoot store with a much larger basement.

“Mom has always had a talent for seeing the future of fashion,” said Stacey, a teacher, who received her bachelor’s degree from the University of Missouri and master’s from National Lewis.

“She knows the community, the North Shore style, and brings a competitive knowledge to Highland Park,” she added.

The mother-daughter partnership adds to the uniqueness of the family-owned business when many stores are part of a chain these days.

Spade, by the way, looks incredibly young for her age.

Asked about her secret, she said, “I exercise, watch my diet and try to stay away from sugar.

And I’m not a chocolate-person.”

“I’m young-spirited and believe in a higher power,” she added.

Left, a babydoll/vintage-inspired look from the Rachel Zoe Resort 2015 collection.

-photo www.rachelzoe.com

Left, Stacey Skolnick, co-owner of Ami Ami with her mother Merrie Spade, in their store at 668 Central Ave., Highland Park.

Out on the Town Influential economist to speak at Lake County Partners March 4 Diane Swonk, chief economist at Mesirow Financial and an advisor to the Federal Reserve Board and regional Reserve Banks, will be the keynote speaker at the breakfast meeting of Lake County Partners Wednesday, March 4, at the Lincolnshire Marriott Resort in Lincolnshire.

The theme this year is “Expanding the Lake County Economy” which urges business and community leaders to work together toward strengthening, sustaining and leveraging the county’s business assets. Lake County Partners is a not-for-profit organization which helps businesses to transform opportunities into success through a wide range of economic development services.

Swonk is reputed as one of the most quoted economists in the financial press.

As an advisor to the Federal Reserve Board, she regularly briefs the Congressional Budget Office and the White House Council of Economic Advisors. She has been named one of the top economic forecasters in the country by The Wall Street Journal.

At Mesirow, an independent diversified financial services firm headquartered in Chicago, she is also the senior managing director.

Registration for the event begins at 7:15 a.m. with the program starting at 8 a.m. Cost is $50 per person. For more information call 847597-1220.

Waukegan’s Annual Mardi Gras Casino Night Saturday, February 7; 6-10pm It’s never too early for Mardi Gras. That’s why Waukegan’s Annual Mardi Gras Silent Auction and Casino night is what you’re waiting for. This staple of Waukegan features a Vegas-style casino and $500 cash raffle, a jazz band, dancing and more.

The Glen Flora Country Club will have you Soc Au’ Lait in French or Wow!

The Orchid Show at Chicago Botanic Garden Saturday, February 14 – Sunday, March 15; Sunday through Saturday 10 am – 4 pm Craving the beautiful flowers that spring brings? There’s no place like the Chicago Botanic Garden. During the last full month of winter, the Orchid Show comes to town featuring 12,000 of the most brilliant and unusual orchids from all around the globe. These orchids will be showcased in the Regenstein Center. The flowers aren’t the only thing that will make you sing, there’s also music and a lot more as you gaze at this wondrous plant life. There will be a slew of presentations within the greenhouses of Chicago Botanic Garden for you and the family to enjoy!

Vernon Hills’ Craft Beer Festival Saturday February 21; 5-9 pm Ales, Stouts lagers and more is what this festival features for you. The master brewers of Lake County will come together to showcase

their tastiest micro suds. All in attendance must be 21. This second annual festival at the Sullivan Community Center will also include live music and beer-inspired grub.

Tasting Room at North Shore Distillery Tues-Thurs 12-6pm; Fri-Sat 12-9, Sun 12-6 Tradition never dies, when you are the catalyst of an entire state. Come visit Lake Bluff’s first and best craft distillery in the Land of Lincoln. Tastings and purchases are welcomed Tuesday-Sunday, while the cocktail bar is open Friday-Sunday. Saturday you can receive the grand tour of the entire process. Warm up with a drink and they will provide you with knowledge of the first Illinois distillery!

Celebrate the life and times of Jack Benny at Clockwise Theatre This highly acclaimed one-man show, called Mr. Benny stars Tim Newell.

Jack Benny was known for his days as a Vaudeville actor, radio personality and movie and television actor.

The show runs through Sunday February 15.

Clockwise Theatre is located at 221 N. Genesee Street Waukegan, IL 60085

Merrie Spade on a recent shopping trip to New York where she checks out some new jackets. Jackets are among the biggest trends for 2015, she says. Ami Ami features designer pieces to compliment any outfit. - photo courtesy of Merrie Spade

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theYOUjournal

February 2015

As I See It - Valentine’s Day by Odie Pahl

I love Valentine’s Day and always have. Even as a child, I was so excited to give and receive cards at school, I made those decorated bags or special shoeboxes to receive the treasure trove of the latest and the greatest in popular cartoon characters, and gobbled up the Fannie May chocolates in the red velvet heart (still a favorite) my parents gave to me.

So, I always made it special for my daughters and now my granddaughters, as well.

Unfortunately, my husband does not share my enthusiasm. With his typical comment, “ah, Valentine’s Day is just one of those Hallmark holidays created to sell cards,” Mike feels totally justified to ignore February 14th completely.

I can count on one hand the times he acknowledged the day with a card or gift. After almost 40 years of marriage, I know he will never be Mr. Romance. Yet, he is a good guy in other ways, which I guess is what counts in the long run.

However, Mike is wrong about Valentine’s Day. This is not a calendar date like Sweetest Day or Secretary’s Day that have become popular in the last twenty years. Recognizing

the day goes back to the Middle Ages and the day’s namesake was a Christian martyr who was killed around 270 A.D. after he continued marrying young couples against Roman law. I guess the Emperor felt young soldiers needed to be emotionally unencumbered.

Valentine cards were pieces of art often accompanied with elaborate poetry given to woo and celebrate young love.

Supposedly, St. Valentine of Rome was killed on February 14th, marking the date. The whole history is a little unsettling, but it did evolve into something lovely. Just ignore its predecessor on February 15th, a pagan holiday called; Lupercalia where sacrificed goats for fertility and dogs for purification were the norm. Couples were chosen by being touched with the strips of the goat’s skin in some lustful ceremony and they continued to couple for the following year, if you know what I mean.

After reading the sordid details on the history of St. Valentine’s Day, what are your traditions?

My husband and I, though successfully married for a really long time are on the opposite spectrum of probably most of you. Either way,

how you celebrate while dating or married is not a guarantee that the relationship will last through the next year. The point being be true to yourself.

If the spirit moves you and you want to celebrate go for it with dinner, dancing, a little getaway from the kids, party with the family, candy, flowers, and champagne on ice. Whatever floats your boat, it is your gig.

The way you treat your significant other throughout the year probably shows how you truly feel anyway.

Me? I will have the Hallmark Channel on, watching all those romantic movies I love with happy endings. Fairy tales, maybe, but I eat them up.

Until next time…

Freelance writer Odie Pahl is a life-long resident of Lake County. She lives with her husband Mike in the Waukegan/Gurnee area. Find out more about her at: http://odiepahl.blogspot.com

Odie Pahl and her husband have two daughters and two granddaughters, and says she “loves every minute of it.” Last summer, she finished her BS in psychology and is set to start graduate studies this month. Odie loves to write, dabbles in photography, and reads voraciously. In 1998 she began a column in a local weekly newspaper and continues to feed her passion as time allows. She has some interesting projects in the works, including children’s books and local history. Odie is thrilled to be part of theYOUjournal publication.

Dog People

by Jackie Jennings

‘I’ve found Miniature Poodles to be amazing!’

Guest Writer Before meeting Saddie, a miniature poodle, and her owner Dick Herbert in the summer of 2008, I had always believed small poodles and their owners were push-overs. Boy did they prove me wrong!

Saddie was just getting out of puppy-hood and was very active. She jumped, barked and licked me. And I also discovered both the dog and the man (Dick) were loving and protective companions.

It wasn’t long before Saddie was enrolled in the Zion Park district beginning agility class with instructor Georgene Knight. Because of the classes, I quickly learned miniature poodles are miniature athletes. They often excel in both advanced obedience competition where retrieving and jumping skills are required, and in agility (obstacle course) competitions where they fly over, under, and through obstacles with a strength and grace that is breathtaking to watch.

A miniature poodle is one of the smartest and most trainable of all the dog breeds. He learns quickly, and responds eagerly to his/her owner, especially if they use positive training methods.

Poodles need mental stimulation to be happy dogs. They enjoy hide and seek, fetch, and attention from their owner(s). This is not a breed to sit quietly in the back yard. Stimulation and exercise make for a happy poodle. Miniature

poodles are also great watch dogs with a sharp bark, yet are polite and generally non-aggressive towards people.

Most believe poodles need expensive grooming. Not so. Poodles can be clipped to look like any other dog. I’ve learned that using a hand held clipper every six weeks takes about 20 minutes and will give you a short haired dog that is easy to brush. Poodles love to be brushed. I also pull hair out of their ears and clip their nails at the same time. All is rather easy to do.

Miniature poodles need daily companionship, are sometimes hypersensitive and do not like to be startled. They prefer peace and harmony and may get upset with roughhousing or too much activity or conflict. The most sensitive of them are not good with small children.

After meeting Dick, and becoming a couple, we added two more poodles to our household: Parsons Jewels, and Lacey, whom I purchased from a breeder in 2009.

Lacey has five generations of AKC registered heritage. I saw an ad in a local newspaper and met the breeders at a gas station who brought two poodles. I expected just a chocolate female and they also brought a cream colored female (Lacey) which clung to me. I chose to buy Lacey who had to be nursed back to health—she had infections in both her ears and eyes, and she was underweight from recently delivering a litter.

I had no idea that this dog whom I paid $125 actually came from such impressive stock. Six weeks after I got her she was healthy and happy.

A year later we added another poodle to our brood. (It took some begging to get Dick to concede). The latest is Sammy, a 9-pounder who loves competing in agility with the girls.

All the dogs have successfully completed puppy school and agility through the Zion Park District Recreation Program. Lacey and Saddie have completed Agility I and Agility II competition and have achieved United Agility Champion honors. Sammy has complete Agility I and Agility II with the United Kennel Club.

These small packaged-dogs are intuitive and smart enough to read the owners’ body language and almost their minds. They have brought much joy and many benefits to my life: Companionship, exercise, love, attention, affection—these are just some of what I get from my Poodles.

And while they may not be a breed for small children because they are often high-strung and sensitive, much depends on the training they receive from their owners.

They are great for allergy sufferers because they do not shed, and they are just great companion animals.

Knight makes dog training fun Longtime dog trainer Georgene Knight is an evaluator for Therapy Dogs International and a United Kennel Club judge for agility.

She has many years experience in the field and is the owner of several Border collies which excel in Agility.

Through the Zion Park District she teaches classes in Obedience for puppies and adult dogs from beginner on up. She also has Agility classes for beginner, intermediate and advanced.

Dog lovers in Lake County love her popular Dog trainer Georgene Knight with one of her champion Border collies. - photo courtesy of Georgene Knight

classes, as well as their canine counterparts. “ People tell me all the time that as soon as they see the building, they are whining and crying to get here,” said Knight.

“I try to make the classes fun -- this way the dogs think they are just having fun but in the process they are learning.” Knight said dog owners often come to the classes after being referred by others.

For information about her upcoming classes call the Zion Park District at 847.746.5500.

Jackie Jennings with Saddie when they first met in Colorado.

Lacey, Sammy and Saddie at home showing off their many ribbons. -photos courtesy

of Jackie Jennings

Lake Villa Township Job Fair February 19

On February 19, from 2 to 6 p.m. Lake Villa Township is sponsoring a JOB FAIR at the Lake Villa Township West Campus, 37850 N Rt. 59, Lake Villa 60046 (¼ mile south of Grand Avenue).

A wide range of career and job opportunities will be represented including professional, hourly, technical and non-technical jobs, in addition to seasonal and part-time.

The event is free. If an employer has job openings or expects to have openings in the coming months, this is an opportunity to interview and screen candidates.

Please contact Dan Venturi at 847-356-2116 or at Supervisor@LakeVillaTownship.org or visit our Web site at www.LakeVillaTownship.org

theYOUjournal

February 2015

The wonderful world of dogs!

Hundreds of dog owners from all over the country brought their dogs to the three-day all-breed shows and competitions at the Lake County Fairgrounds in Grayslake late in January.

A Pekingese, named Chelsea, came from the Philippines, according to her handler, Ted Lee of Indianapolis, Ind. He has taken the 2 ½-yearold to a dozen shows seeking a grand championship, he said.

The show, Jan. 23-25, was sponsored by the Park Shore Kennel Club of Deerfield and Chain O’ Lakes Kennel Club of Grayslake.

Among the uncommon breeds at the show were a Leonburger, a working dog that weighs 130 pounds owned by Beth and Mark Markham of Brohead, Wis.; and Eagle, an Afghan hound with long silky hair and a tail with a ring curl at the end, owned by Lynn Mercer of Fox Lake.

There were a few Russian wolfhounds, a breed called Borzoi, meaning fast, distinguished by its aristocratic look with an arched back.

To make their dogs show their best foot, so to speak, owners and handlers were busy brushing, grooming and trimming their charges.

Some were even using hair spray to make their fur shine. It was a beautiful show.

Photos by Tina Johansson

“Carly,” a Russian Wolfhound a.k.a.

Borzoi, is a head-turner. She is with owner Dee Swan of Antioch.

Right, a standard poodle from Chicago is waiting to be prettied up.

Above, Ted Lee from Indianapolis with Chelsea, a Pekingese who came all the way from the Philippines for the show.

Above, Beth Markham gets her Leonburger ready for the show. The 130-pound canine is a lion of a dog!

Above, Lynn Mercer of Fox Lake grooms “Eagle,” her 9-month old Afghan hound.

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February 2015

theYOUjournal

Romantic Eats

Restaurants Welcome You with LOVE This Valentine’s Day!

by Alisa Bay

Ah, decisions, decisions! With so many restaurants throughout the North Shore, it can be difficult to choose the right one for your special someone. Thanks to feedback from our readers, theYOUjournal has compiled a list of Valentine’s Day favorites to help make the decision a bit easier. From romantic out-of-the-way hideaways to hustling and bustling neighborhood hot spots, you’re sure to find just the right place for you and your sweetheart!

Abigail’s American Bistro

493 Roger Williams, Highland Park 847-780-4862 www.abigails493.com

In the heart of the beautiful downtown Ravinia neighborhood sits Abigail’s American Bistro, offering an affordable regional menu with honest and simple preparations. The restaurant’s soothing earth tones with splashes of color, wooden bistro chairs, long banquettes and joint tables, all lend themselves to Abigail’s vibrant social atmosphere. For Valentine’s Day, the chef will be preparing a variety of specials all geared toward sharing and twosomes! The regular menu will also be available.

Blind Faith Café

525 Dempster Street, Evanston 847-328-6875 www.blindfaithcafe.com If you and your sweetheart are vegetarians, then the Blind Faith Café is the right choice for you! For the past 30

years, they have been changing the way people think about vegetarian cuisine and are committed to exceptional food and outstanding service.

Come indulge in a three-course Valentine’s Day “Celebration Menu” coupled with a complimentary glass of champagne. Available on Friday and Saturday, February 13th and 14th, the cost is $38 per person. Wine pairings are available for an additional $18 per person.

Bobby’s

695 Deerfield Road, Deerfield 847-607-9104 www.bobbysdeerfield.com A true neighborhood spot with an inspired take on inventive food and drink, Bobby’s is described as an American bistro with influences from all over the world. If you prefer an exciting, lively, upbeat ambiance to a quiet table for two, then Bobby’s is a great place for Valentine’s Day! In addition to their regular menu, the chef will be offering special entrees, as well as innovative “his and her” cocktails. Complete the evening with a scrumptious dessert and one of their specialty coffee drinks.

Found Kitchen and Social House 1631 Chicago Avenue, Evanston 847-868-8945 www.foundkitchen.com

After spending most of her life in the restaurant business, Amy Morton opened Found Kitchen and Social House to rave reviews. Chef Nicole Pederson’s mouthwatering, multi-course Valentine’s Day dinner, inspired by famous lovers throughout time, will be available on both Friday and Saturday, February 13th and 14th for $65 per person. Be sure to save room for the chocolate New York style cheesecake with red velvet Whoopee Pies! Readers of theYOUjournal rate this among their favorites!

Longitud315

315 Waukegan Avenue, Highwood

847-926-7495 www.longitud315.com Longitud315 is the lifelong dream of Venezuelan-born Chef Tony Castillo, whose childhood memories of cooking side-by-side with his grandmother prompted him to open a restaurant where he could share his passion.

Offering a South American cuisine that fuses the flavors of Venezuela, Argentina, Brazil and Peru, the menu is bold and exciting! For Valentine’s Day, Chef Tony invites you to celebrate love, friendship and life by choosing from his regular menu or a 5-course meal for $65 per/ person (with a glass of champagne) or $149 per couple with a bottle of champagne.

MH Fish House

670 Bank Lane, Lake Forest 847-234-8802 www.mhfishhouse.com Overlooking Lake Forest’s historic Market Square is MH Fish House, one of the most romantic restaurants on the North Shore! Committed to being a fresh “Sea to Table” restaurant, MH Fish House features a variety of fish, oysters and uniquely prepared entrees, along with a creative wine list. For Valentine’s Day, guests can choose from their expansive menu (featuring Atlantic Cod, Pacific Salmon, Hawaiian Hamachi and other delicacies from the sea) or from several specially created items in celebration of Valentine’s Day.

stripes! Mom, dad and the kids can all enjoy an evening of bowling, Bocce and heart-shaped pizzas to celebrate the holiday.

Couples who head to Pinstripes on February 13th, 14th, or 15th will receive complimentary Frangelico Chocolate Cake and champagne.

On Friday and Saturday evening, Ray Silkman, one of the best “Sax Men” in the business, will be performing beginning at 7 p.m.

The Noodle Cafe

708 12th Street, Wilmette www.thenoodlecafe.com If you don’t feel like getting dressed up and you and your sweetie prefer a laid back kind of Valentine’s Day, then The Noodle Café is an outstanding choice!

Since 1990, the European café-style eatery has been one of Wilmette’s most popular restaurants. Featuring homemade pasta and sauces and a variety of chicken, steak and seafood entrees, The Noodle Café will be offering a Surf & Turf special on Valentine’s Day along with their regular menu. They will also be featuring high-end champagne by the glass to accompany your meal.

Happy Valentine’s Day from theYOUjournal!

Pinstripes

1150 Willow Road, Northbrook 847-480-2323 www.pinstripes.com Valentine’s Day can be a family affair at Pin-

Ray Silkman will perform at Pinstripes in Northbrook Feb. 13 & 14 at 7 p.m.

Lovers willing to spend on Valentine’s Day Continued from page 1

The lovers’ holiday is one where smiles are big, kisses are frequent, and few bat an eye at spending. And for florists around the country it is also a time where additional help is needed.

Katie Larsen, co-owner of Larsen Florist & Greenhouse in Waukegan knows all too well what is to be done for Valentine’s Day. “Our business increases and we have to hire more drivers (to make deliveries). We also have to have additional design staff.”

“It’s probably the single busiest day for us, with Mothers Day being a week long holiday. So we have to be on the ball,” said Larsen.

Giant teddy bears, singing

balloons and keepsake red vases are among items on hand for February 14. But for the floral arrangements, customers are not only asking for the typical longstemmed roses in red, pink and white these days, their repertoire has evolved to include natural hues of lavender and orange, said Larsen.

She added that tulips are becoming increasingly popular for Valentine’s Day, as well as “fancy” arrangements including orchids and other tropical flowers.

At one time the 141-year-old business grew all the cut flowers on the premises. Today they are flown in fresh from all over the world including South America for the roses, Holland for tulips,

and California for snap dragons.

Larsen’s is part of the Teleflora network that can have flowers shipped all over the world.

Because Valentine’s Day falls on a weekend this year, many customers send flowers a day or so early, usually to places of employment, explained Larsen. “I think they like to make a statement, especially when they’re sending flowers to the office.”

The price for one dozen roses in Lake County, depending on how they are arranged, typically run $80 to $100, said Larsen.

Add that to dinner and candy, and you’ve got yourself a bill. “I think it’s a holiday that people save up for,” she said.

Katie Larsen of Larsen Florist in Waukegan arranging roses in her store. The Mylar balloon at the top sings “Crazy Little Thing Called Love.” -photo courtesy of Larsen Florist & Greenhouse

Restaurant Row

theYOUjournal

February 2015

11

At Taste on Chestnut, Diners ‘Taste with their eyes’

By Tina Johansson Steve Leviton, the chef/owner of a new culinary experience aimed at giving diners fare that is both attractive and delicious, is proud to open in Winnetka.

Appropriately named, Taste on Chestnut, the 110-seat restaurant, boasting three distinct dining rooms, is located at 507 Chestnut Street in this affluent suburb.

The grand opening of Taste on Chestnut was held February 2. Among those invited were village officials, community leaders and other VIPs. And they enjoyed delightful tastings offered by Chef Leviton.

Leviton is a highly accomplished culinarian with a degree from Johnson and Wales College. He was trained in culinary arts and has earned certificates from Auberge Du Lion D Or in Geneva Switzerland and Stagiere/Moulin de Mougin in Mougin, France.

His longtime—more than two-decade career—in the food industry spans working in

According to Leviton’s web site, he made a “gentle evolution” towards modernizing and upgrading the former Jerry’s Corner Cooks which he had operated in the same location for several months prior to opening Taste on Chestnut. During this time he and the staff worked side by side testing new culinary creations for customers, and learning what it is the diners in this locale enjoy best.

The new owner decided to keep the original staff whom customers have grown familiar with. A few new faces were added as well. “It has been a fabulous transition, as we have been operating since I took over the restaurant and I have really gotten to know the clientele,” said Leviton.

In three weeks while the business was closed, renovations took place to include opening up the interior, and giving the atmosphere a sleek, sophisticated treatment. Warm woods, copper tones, and a hint of teal provided an inviting appearance.

The restaurant boasts three dining rooms: The Chestnut Room featuring expresso floors and banquettes; the Savory Room with an open

Beef Bourguignon

Smoked salmon, ciabatta crisp, sous vide egg, red onion

Sea bass with fried rice

Steven Leviton, chef/owner of Taste on Chestnut in Winnetka restaurants, country clubs, and catering.

Leviton has held titles including executive chef at Kiki’s Bistro in Chicago and Exmoor Country Club in Highland Park. He was also the food and beverage director for many years at Briarwood Country Club in Deerfield and regional executive chef for Wolfgang Puck Catering in Chicago.

The elevated American fare at his new Winnetka restaurant is said to appeal to the fussiest of diners. “Our customers will ‘Taste’ with their eyes as well as their palate, as they enjoy the overall dining experience and our presentations of familiar foods with an uptempo twist,” said Leviton.

The Chestnut Room, one of several dining rooms at the restaurant.

kitchen where customers can interact with the chef or take a seat along the cooking bar; and the Fireplace Room with a cozy dining area.

Taste on Chestnut is a good choice for Valentine’s Day. Please call to make a reservation at 847.441.0134. For more informatoin visit www.TasteOnChestnut.com.

Crab cake

Taste on Chestnut is at 507 Chestnut Street in Winnetka.

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theYOUjournal February 2015

Forget the snow and focus on future gardens Time to ignore the weather and start planning your spring, summer and fall perennial gardens.

Whether you’re starting a whole new garden, renovating an existing one, or just adding a few plants, you need to hit the books, catalogs, and magazines.

Your local library has a wealth of information and suggestions; here are some basic things to keep in mind as you plan.

Climate North America is divided into hardiness zones based on the weather extremes in each zone.

North Eastern Illinois is in Zone 5, meaning that perennial plants suitable for growing in zones one through five will stand a better chance of thriving here than plants recommended for zones six and greater. Plants for zones 7 and above will not survive our winters unless you bring them inside, and even zone 6 should only be planted in sheltered areas.

Sunlight Plants that are listed as requiring: full sun need sunlight for six to eight hours a day, partial sun/ partial shade plants want four to six hours of sun, and full shade plants can grow with 2 hours or less of sunshine. �The right plant in the right place� saves a lot of trouble later on. Over time

the amount of sunlight vs. shade in your garden can change due to trees either growing or being cut down.

Plant Size and Bloom Time The mature width and height of each plant determines spacing, and the bloom time information allows you to plan a continuum of flowers from spring to frost. Perennials tend to have one extensive bloom time, such as spring bulbs but some will continue to flower on and off throughout the summer like roses.

The foliage of spring bulbs looks sad as it dies down but must be allowed to turn brown before you remove as it feeds the bulbs for next year.

The placement of early blooming perennials such as hellebores, columbines or peonies can be used to distract the eye.

The summer is when the majority of perennials such as lilies, roses, penstemon and nepeta (cat mint) bloom. Fall color can be supplied by chrysanthemums, asters and Autumn Joy sedum.

Plants such as hostas, ornamental grasses and the brightly colored heucheres (coral bells) provide interesting foliage through out the entire growing season.

Soil and Water The plants which require acidic soil, Blueber-

ries, azaleas, holly and hydrangeas need special fertilizers specifically for acid-loving plants to keep them healthy. Most plants struggle with our clay soils requiring you to add organic amendments such as compost, aged manure or peat moss.

Plants have different water requirements from a lot of water to barely moist, well-drained soil.

Planting moisture-loving plants, astilbe, sweet flag iris, or rose mallow in wet spots gives the plant an environment it enjoys and can solve a problem for you.

Plan your garden using books, magazines and catalogs to enjoy all the beautiful pictures. But before you buy, do your homework to ensure success.

Hope and Kathleen are Master Gardeners through the University of Illinois Extension Service, Lake County. Originally from England, Hope now lies in Wadsworth.

Kathleen lives in Gurnee.

Top right are mums. Lower are daffodils. - photos by Hope Forcier

theYOUjournal

February 2015

13

Going Places

Hometown Hero

Corbin Hill is a Warren Twp. High School graduate

Corbin Hill, a graduate of Warren Township High School, is honored by the RLA Exchange Club.

U.S. Army Corporal Corbin Hill of Round Lake Beach was honored recently by the Round Lake Area Exchange Club and sponsor Judy Armstrong. He was given the title Hometown Hero.

Hill is a 2010 graduate of Warren Township High School in Gurnee.

His mother Cindy of Round Lake Beach said her son is a gunner to the M1A1 Abrams and the Humvees that are driven in Iraq for patrols.

Among the many honors bestowed on Hill are Expert Medal in Shooting, meritorious service while assigned to funeral detail, Outstand-

ing Achievement of a Distinguished Qualifying score on Gunnery Table-VI during the Abrams NETT Gunnery, Medal of Achievement for Outstanding Performance while serving as Driver for C13 during Tank Table VI and Commanders Coin for Bandido Marksman.

Sponsor of the award, Judy Armstrong, made sure Hill received a “Hanging with the Heroes” care package including snacks, a personalized t-shirt (donated by Artrageous of Hainesville), letters from Round Lake Area School District 116 students, a specially made rosary for the military from Legion of Mary from St. Joseph’s in Round Lake and a piece

of home.

The Round Lake Area Exchange Club presented a plaque to his family.

The Exchange Club needs the community’s help in getting local heroes signed up. Any and all military personnel serving overseas or in the USA from any of the Round Lake Areas, Hainesville, Fox Lake, Ingleside or surrounding areas qualify for the program.

You can register your loved ones by going on line and visiting www.rlaexchange.org/ hero. For more information visit the web site or contact program chair Sherry Ridge at 847740-2379.

Walgreens’ Infusion Services to become independent company Walgreen Co., a wholly owned subsidiary of the new Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc. has signed a definitive agreement with Madison Dearborn Partners (MDP), a leading private equity firm based in Chicago, under which MDP will acquire a majority interest in Walgreens Infusion Services.

With more than 30 years of experience, Walgreens Infusion Services is one of the nation’s largest providers of home and alternate treatment site infusion services and is considered an industry pioneer. Walgreens Infusion Services’ broad geographic footprint includes 89 infusion pharmacies and 110 alternate treatment sites in 40 states, approximately 4,700 employees and the ability to serve more than 90 percent of the U.S. population. Its clinical personnel, including nurses, pharmacists, technicians and dieticians, treat patients who are managing a broad range of acute and chronic conditions.

“This agreement will enable us to continue to strengthen the Walgreens infusion offering

as part of our broad health care portfolio as we work closely with the new company, which will have a dedicated focus on this $14 billion and growing U.S. market,” said Mike Ellis, vice president, Walgreens specialty pharmacy and infusion services.

“With Walgreens and MDP’s expertise, capabilities and resources, the new company will have an opportunity to play an even greater role in improving the quality and cost of infusion services.”

When the transaction closes, Walgreens Infusion Services will become a new independent, privately-held company. MDP will own a majority interest in the new company.

Walgreens Boots Alliance will own a significant minority interest and have representatives on the company’s board of directors.

The transaction supports Walgreens focus on accelerating its core retail and specialty offerings. Walgreens Infusion Services will receive the additional investment and focused support it needs to continue to grow, while

also benefiting from Walgreens Boots Alliance purchasing efficiencies.

Paul Mastrapa, current divisional vice president of Walgreens Infusion Services, will serve as the new company’s CEO. Financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed. The transaction is not expected to have a material impact on the earnings per share of Walgreens Boots Alliance in fiscal year 2015.

“The new company, which will have an industry-leading management team supported

by MDP and Walgreens, will be positioned to provide even greater value to patients, local health systems, health plans and pharmaceutical manufacturers,” said Mastrapa.

Over the past 30 years, the principals of MDP have focused on investing in companies in partnership with outstanding management teams to achieve significant long-term appreciation in equity value. MDP has a long history of successfully investing in health care across a range of sub-sectors including hospitals, home and community-based care, skilled nursing fa-

cilities, life sciences, specialty pharmaceuticals and medical products. Investments in health care services companies include Team Health, National Mentor Holdings and Valitas. The firm’s most recent health care investments include Kaufman Hall, Ikaria and Sage Products.

“MDP looks forward to our business relationship with Walgreens, and we are confident the new company is well positioned to continue to grow in the alternate-site infusion services industry,” said Tim Sullivan, managing director, Madison Dearborn Partners. “Working in close collaboration with Paul Mastrapa and his team, and also with Walgreens, we plan to invest in additional resources and new technology to enhance the company’s preeminent capabilities as an alternate site provider of critical health care services.”

The transaction is subject to satisfaction of regulatory requirements and other conditions and is expected to close during the second quarter of calendar year 2015.

Kid Fun! The Marriott Theatre for Young Audiences’ first show of the season!

From the Kingdom of Ipslonia comes The Marriott Theatre for Young Audiences’ first show of the season, THE PRINCESS AND THE PEA, previewing February 26, running through May 3, with a press opening on Saturday, March 7 at 10 a.m. at 10 Marriott Drive, Lincolnshire.

Scott Weinstein makes his Marriott Theatre directorial debut, joined by Musical Director Ryan T. Nelson, with a modern spin on the classic Hans Christian Andersen fairytale.

An imaginative story for all ages, THE PRINCESS AND THE PEA is a celebration of everlasting love and staying true to oneself no matter what the circumstances. A Question & Answer session with the cast will follow the one-hour presentation.

When Prince Wellington (Jeff Award winner Alex Goodrich) is forced into choosing a bride by his mother, Queen Evermean (Jeff Award winner Susan Moniz), all the princesses in the land line up to pass the “Princess Test.” Trouble arises when the Prince falls in love with a commoner, Ruth (Jeff Award nominee Dara Camer-

on), instead of a “true” princess! To satisfy the Queen, Ruth must prove her worth by passing her own test, which requires her to sleep on a giant stack of mattresses piled on top of a single pea. If she endures a sleepless night due to the pea – of which she has no knowledge – she must be sensitive enough to be a real princess.

THE PRINCESS AND THE PEA stars Alex Goodrich (On the Town and HERO at The Marriott Theatre) as Prince Wellington, Dara Cameron (HERO and South Pacific at The Marriott Theatre) as Ruth, Susan Moniz (Mary Poppins and Now & Forever at The Marriott Theatre, Thoroughly Modern Millie at Drury Lane Theatre) as Queen Evermean, Don Forston (HERO at The Marriott Theatre; A Christmas Carol and Oliver! at Drury Lane Theatre; A Midsummer Night’s Dream at Chicago Shakespeare) as Papa and TV Reporter, Samantha Pauly as Buffy, and Derrick Trumbly as Chester.

The Marriott Theatre for Young Audiences team will be headed up by Lead Artistic Director Andy Hite, with Costume Designer Nancy Missimi, Lighting Designer Brian Hoehne, Sound Designer Bob Gilmartin, Set and Props

Designer Jeff Kmiec and Musical Supervisor Patti Garwood.

THE PRINCESS AND THE PEA plays most Tuesdays through Sundays at 10 AM and 12:30 PM. Visit MarriottTheatre.com or call 847.634.0200 for exact schedule, as show times and dates vary. Single ticket prices are $17.23 per person (includes fees and taxes).

Groups of 20 or more receive a discount by calling 847.634.5909. Free parking is available at all shows. To reserve tickets, call the Marriott Theatre Box Office at 847.634.0200 or visit www.MarriottTheatre.com.

Gurnee’s Frosty Fest Friday, February 27 S’mores, snowmen, and horse-drawn carriage rides Did you think you missed this fest in early January? This family fun festival was postponed from due to the biting cold and was rescheduled!

Bring the whole family around for an evening of family fun in the snow at Bittersweet Golf Course.

The Gurnee Park District offers dog sled demonstrations, horse-drawn carriage rides, ice sculpting, music, arts and crafts.

What better way to spend your Friday evening than playing in reindeer games while munching on some S’mores.

There’s also no fest in Gurnee without the likes of Frosty the Snowman. Visit with this jolly happy soul.

You can help Frosty make Snowman friends with a corncob pipe and a button nose and two eyes made out of coal.

No pre-registration is required in this snowy affair.

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February 2015 theYOUjournal

Mind, Body and Soul Become a Medical Reserve Corps Volunteer - Feb. 10 Meeting Lake County residents seeking a volunteer opportunity with free training for widespread emergency situations may want to join the Lake County Medical Reserve Corps (MRC).

A medical background is not required for those wanting to volunteer. An informational meeting about what the volunteer group does is scheduled from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, February 10, in Room C002, Building C, at the College of Lake County, 19351 West Washington Street, in Grayslake.

Affiliated with the Lake County Health Department’s Emergency Response program, the MRC is in place to support the existing health care system in situations of public health emergencies. For instance, MRC volunteers assisted with the H1N1 outbreak in Lake County and

10 traveled to Louisiana to assist after Hurricane Katrina in what was the first national activation of MRC volunteers.

“If you want to volunteer, we will find a job for you,” said Chet Splitt, MRC Coordinator.

Locally there are 375 members and the goal is to double that number.

Volunteers must be at least 18 years old and a resident of Lake County or one of the adjacent counties. In case of a large-scale emergency wherein medication needs to be distributed, volunteers and their immediate family will receive the medication first to help ensure the volunteer’s ability to respond. Medical or non-medical students who meet the age and residency requirement are encouraged to be volunteers as well.

Volunteers are asked to complete less than 10 hours of training a year and each person is required to attend one four-hour exercise to practice what they learn. The training includes learning how to assist in distributing medication to all residents of Lake County within 48 hours during a public health emergency.

Those who volunteer will not only be better prepared at home and work in case of an emergency, but they also will be part of a nationally-recognized group of volunteers.

In 2014 the Lake County Medical Reserve Corps received the FEMA Community Preparedness Award for Local Communities and in 2012, the group was recognized as an Active Partner in the Illinois Heart Rescue Project which focuses on forming community, emer-

gency management system (EMS) and hospital partnerships across the state to measure and improve cardiac arrest survival.

There are 77 Medical Reserve Corps units and more than 4,500 members in Illinois.

For more information about the Medical Reserve Corps, visit the website at: http:// health.lakecountyil.gov/Population/Pages/ Lake-County-Medical-Reserve-Corps.aspx.

Questions about how to volunteer or the training may be directed to Chet Splitt at: csplitt@lakecountyil.gov. Or, contact him at: (847) 377-8358.

Miscarriage: Always a loss, no matter how early, no matter what number

by Dr. Jeannie Aschkenasy, Licensed Clinical Psychologist I have been working with individuals and couples who have experienced miscarriages, treatment for infertility, and loss of a baby, for about ten years now.

There are many paths that lead them to my office, but it usually involves multiple miscarriages, failed Artificial Reproductive Techniques (In Vitro Fertilization; use of a sperm or egg donor), and a referral from an obstetrician/ gynecologist or infertility doctor. Some women are able to pass through the cycle of loss and easily move on, while others feel stuck in the grieving process, and need help and permission to grieve their loss. And a tragic loss it can be.

According to Mayo Clinic, 15-20% of confirmed pregnancies end in miscarriage. However, miscarrying is a topic that is not easily or frequently talked about, and the emotional toll it takes is often underestimated.

In addition, those individuals and couples undergoing a failed In Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

also experience a similar loss.

Even when the miscarriage is preceded by, or succeeded by the birth of a healthy child, unresolved feelings around the miscarriages can linger. Whether the loss is early or late in the pregnancy, it is still a loss, and “early” losses are no less traumatic than “late” losses. In addition, with today’s technology, women know right away whether they are pregnant.

Each of these situations involves the loss of someone(s) potential child, potential motherhood, potential fatherhood, and is likely to be shocking, and involve grieving.

Everyone grieves in different ways and communication in this emotional time can lead to difficulties in the marriage or partnership. Individuals who are used to being in control, experience a loss of control in one of the most important and personal areas in their lives.

In addition, the hormones and drugs that are meant to help with the pregnancy are likely to exacerbate feelings of anxiety and sadness. If the sadness or anxiety becomes debilitating, it may be time to seek some professional help and

support, or seek a support group. Know that you are not alone.

A piece of advice I frequently share with individuals who are struggling to become parents, or have experienced miscarriages or loss, is to be kind to themselves – and to give themselves permission to excuse themselves from baby showers if it is too difficult for them to go. People who they are close to will understand, and those they are not close to, well it probably isn’t so important.

Feelings of envy and sadness are normal, and babies and pregnant women will be noticed everywhere. Permission to grieve is essential to healthy healing.

Reach Dr. Jeannie Aschkenasy at: 180 N. Michigan Ave. #2201 Chicago, IL 60601 312-726-4464 docjeanniea@gmail.com docjeanniea.com

Jeannie Aschkenasy, Ph.D. (“Dr. Jeannie”) is a licensed clinical psychologist, with more than 25 years of experience in private practice and at Rush University Medical Center working with children, adolescents, adults and families. Dr. Jeannie graduated from Smith College and earned her Ph.D. from Vanderbilt University. Her post-doctoral training was at the Piaget Institute in Geneva Switzerland, Michael Reese Hospital in Chicago and the University of Chicago.

Dr. Jeannie is on staff at John H. Stroger, Jr. Hospital of Cook County.

Be your Best with Batz: Habits of the Healthy

by Michele Batz, Ph.D.

Have you ever wondered why some people are rarely sick and they look happy all the time?

Do you know people like that? When they show up to work, do they look like they enjoy it?

I believe you too can have this type of outlook on life! By making simple changes today, hopefully by the time you finish reading this article, it will not seem impossible to become a healthy, happy person.

First, consider what gives you energy, and what makes you get excited like a cheerful child? Well write it down and decide how you can do more of this in your life today.

Make a list of four more activities or habits that make you feel healthy and alive.

Write those down too. Post this list in three places that you frequent everyday in your house. Look and that list everyday and act on it. You will soon find yourself a little happier and wiser for it. Really!

Second, list at least 5 energy-draining activities or habits that really zap your drive. For instance, do you really have to go to all those

meetings? Make a priority on which ones are absolutely necessary and attend only those.

Does it seem that you are filling your calendar with “to do” items, just to say you are doing them? That in itself is draining and you must stop to take a look and say, why am I doing that?

The very next step is to take that list and replace it with something that will inspire you to do more for yourself. And that could be just by doing nothing.

Where is it written that we must be busy all the time? If we don’t give ourselves time to recharge we are going to feel it.

It is healthy to take time for yourself, chill out a little, laugh a little or just have some peace. You may likely find this to be a good energy-charger for any task that you would like to complete the next day.

Take a look at the list below and try to make some of these small changes. You may find yourself a happier, healthier individual. People will start to ask, what have you done to yourself lately?

Some of these good ideas, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Office of Women’s Health are:

1. Eat healthy – Enjoy a variety of fruits, vegetables and whole grains daily.

2. Limit those foods and drinks high in calories, sugar, salt, fat, and alcohol.

3. Eat a balanced diet to help keep a healthy weight.

4. Get active! For a minimum of 2 ½ hours per week you should be performing activities that raise your heart rate, and breathing rate, and strengthen your muscles.

5. Help kids and teens be active for at least 1 hour each day. Include activities that raise their heart and breathing rates, and those that strengthen muscles and bones.

6. Manage stress -- Balance work, home, and play.

7. Wash hands regularly to stop the spread of germs.

8. Avoid smoking and breathing other people’s smoke.

9. Build safe and healthy relationships with family and friends.

10. Stay positive and take time to relax.

Michele Batz has been an educator for 32 years and presently teaches physical education at Kenneth Murphy Elementary School in Beach Park. Her love of learning has earned her masters degrees in both education and administration. She also has a Ph.D. in Holistic Nutrition.

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Mind, Body and Soul

Zion hospital one of few to offer lymph node transfer surgery

by Long Hwa-shu A breast cancer patient from Michigan City, Mich., said she made a vital and wise decision to travel to Zion for treatment and surgery.

“They treat the whole person medically and spiritually. They take care of everything, my travels and accommodations,” gushed Karin Nowatzke who had undergone breast reconstruction in December at the Cancer Treatment Centers of America at Midwestern Regional Medical Center.

“The doctor even gave me his cell phone and told me to call him if I needed to ask him any questions. The nurse called me after I got back home,” said Karin, who is back on her job as senior operations manager of the U.S. Postal Services in Pontiac, Mich.

“I feel wonderful,” she added, her voice tinged with gratitude and satisfaction.

Karen, 60, went to the Zion cancer treatment center in November 2012 for “a second opinion” after she was diagnosed with breast cancer in September 2012 and had the cancer-ravaged breast removed in Michigan. She said she had learned about the hospital from television commercials and wanted to find out what it could do in breast reconstruction to match her remaining breast.

She was so impressed by her visit that she decided to have the reconstruction done in Zion and also to receive chemo-therapy there.

Meanwhile, she found out she had developed lymphedema, a side effect common after cancer surgery.

Karin underwent the reconstructive surgery at the cancer treatment center in December.

Dr. Daniel Liu, and Dr. Aaron Pelletier, both plastic and reconstructive surgeons, spent more than six hours operating on her. Dr. Liu also performed vascularized lymph node transfer on her.

Liu who received his medical doctor’s degree from Washington University in 2006, specializes in vascularized lymph node transfer and lymphaticovenular bypass surgery – procedures so

new that few hospitals offer. Liu interned at the University of Washington in Seattle.

Lymphedema is an abnormal accumulation of fluids beneath the skin, usually in the extremities. The condition, a side effect of cancer treatment, is often accompanied by hardening of the skin and painful swelling.

“We explore non-surgical options first so we can limit stress on the body following an already rigorous cancer treatment regimen,” said Liu. “Patients who do not realize the benefits of physical therapy after six to 12 months may be a candidate for surgery,” he added.

Both surgeries were declared a success.

“I went back to work a month after the surgery. I feel great,” said Karin, adding, “I would recommend the hospital to anybody in need of cancer treatment.” Her husband, William, is a security officer at a nuclear plant in Bridgman, Mich.

Dr. Liu said lymph node transfer and bypass surgery procedures were developed in Japan but refined in America. Liu who joined the Zion cancer treatment center in August said both procedures are still emerging and not yet widely available. Lymphticovenular bypass, in particular, is an intricate procedure requiring highly advanced skills. Because of that, it is often described as “super microsurgery.” The Zion hospital is one of a few hospitals offering the procedure.

“Microsurgery is intricate and requires highly specialized training and experience. We are proud to have Dr. Liu at the helm of our lymphedema program so we can offer leading edge treatment to our patients,” said Scott Jones, president and CEO of the CTCA in Zion.

“Cancer treatment does not end once a patient is physically free of cancer cells in their body,” said Liu. Karin has recovered from both surgeries so well that now she only has to go back to the hospital for an annual checkup, according to hospital officials.

Dr. Daniel Liu, left, and Dr. Aaron Pelletier performing new lymph node transfer surgery and lymphaticovenular bypass. Cancer Treatment Centers of America in Zion is one of few to offer such procedures. - photos courtesy of CTCA

Dr. Daniel Liu, plastic and reconstructive surgeon at CTCA Patient Karin Nowatzke underwent successful lymph node transfer and breast reconstruction surgery.

Can vitamins play a role in a healthier 2015?

by Dr.Arielle Levitan & Dr. Romy Block The New Year is a great time to refocus and get a fresh start with your health. After holiday indulgences many of us feel like we need to hit the reset button.

A great way to jump start your health in 2015 should include the right vitamins.

Certain vitamins can play a key role in your healthy new year for a variety of reasons. This is a time of when many of us choose to start or increase our exercise regimen. he right vitamins can be important in supporting your efforts at fitness. Vitamins such as magnesium and certain B vitamins can support nerve and muscle function. They can make all the difference in feeling your best when you exercise!

Likewise vitamins can be an essential part of energy. Many of us lack energy because of deficiencies in iron, Vitamin D and essential B vitamins.

Supplementing with adequate doses of these nutrients can help replenish the energy that often falls short this time of year. In fact, Vitamin D levels tend to plummet during winter months because of lack of natural sun exposure.

Restoring the right nutrients can help build up

energy. In turn, energy is key to motivating us to exercise, eat a healthful diet, and to follow a proper sleep schedule.

In addition to struggling with fatigue, this time of year we are often fending off illness.

Influenza has been epidemic as well as many other viruses and infections. It is important to put up your best defenses before being exposed to germs.

The immune system can be supported with proper vitamins including Vitamins C, D and E. Should illness strike, other nutrients including Zinc can be added to help shorten the duration of an infection. Avoiding and minimizing sickness during these months is key to work on other areas of your health. It’s hard to work out when you are sick in bed, hiding under the covers.

A good diet is the cornerstone of great health.

However, it is challenging to get all we need from our food for many reasons. In part this is because today our food supply is lacking in many nutrients, due to soil demineralization.

We are hopeful this will improve as better farming practices are employed. However, it will take decades for us to benefit. In the interim, we may need to look to other sources for

some of our nutrition.

Sometimes a diet that is healthy in many ways can still be lacking. For example, eating less red meat has resulted in many of us having iron deficiency. Striving for a healthful diet focused on vegetables, fruits, whole grains and lean protein is essential but sometimes a few things are needed to supplement even the best eater.

Those who do not use table salt are at risk for iodine deficiency which then helps to support the thyroid gland (vital in regulating metabolism). Iodine deficiency is a huge issue world wide, but taking the right amount of a supplement is essential (too much can also cause harm).

Taking the right vitamins can make us feel better. We may crave less junk food, have more motivation to eat well and exercise. Weight loss may follow!

We are all different in our vitamin needs. We do not all eat the same, live the same or have the same health issues. Taking the right combination of vitamins can be an essential part of feeling your best. A Personalized Multivitamin is a sensible way to start getting your health on track.

Romy Block specializes in Endocrinology and Metabolism and is mother to three elementary age boys.

Arielle Levitan is a doctor of Internal Medicine with a special interest in Preventive Medicine and Women’s Health. She is a mother of three active adolescents.

As professional women with active family lives, they recognize that women, in their many roles, often neglect their own health needs and are uncertain about what vitamins to take.

Each woman is different in her diet, exercise and health history, and will benefit from different nutrients.

After years of advising their patients about the proper vitamins to take, Drs. Block and

Levitan created Vous Vitamin™ to provide people everywhere with quality vitamins that are suited to their individual needs.

Nothing contained herein is intended to be a diagnosis or constitute medical advice. The symptoms described in this article may be a result of a serious medical condition which requires medical treatment.

You should consult with your doctor if you are experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned in this article and before beginning any vitamin or supplement regimen.

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theYOUjournal

New eatery gets big welcome in North Chicago Youth among those trained here

by Tina Johansson “Shop North Chicago, Grow North Chicago (and Dine North Chicago),” was a quote from North Chicago Mayor Leon Rockingham which became the mantra of the day at the recent official ribbon cutting for a new eatery here where well-wishers packed the house.

Plenty of love was shown in the sunny, black and white-tiled restaurant—The Lasagna Stop—where owners Ed and Pinkie Cato of Wadsworth were all smiles.

“I am so humbled to be a part of The Lasagna Stop, and I am with you to the end,” said Billy Vaughn, manager of the place.

The mayor said as a boy he came to the same building where he got ice cream cones and hamburgers. “Now I will come here and get my lasagna,” he said to applause.

The place offers a menu featuring four different kinds of lasagna including Taco, Veggie and Meat Lovers, as well as Greek-style. “We are always looking for more kinds,” said Mr. Cato, who offers customers a chance to win a family meal package if their special lasagna recipe gets adopted onto the menu.

And something quite unique here are the fried BBQ ribs. “As far as I know, we’re the only ones who have them,” said Cato, explaining the three-step process of frying, barbecuing and finally caramelizing them in an oven makes for some very tasty ribs. “(This restaurant) has been a dream of mine for 10-years,” said Cato, 52 who works in the nuclear field for Zion Energy Solutions. From age 18 on into his 30s, he held jobs in various restaurants and cafeterias, including Abbott Laboratories, across the street from the place.

Second ward Alderman Bonny Mayfield said she is impressed with what the owners are doing to employ people. Her cousin State Representative Rita Mayfield of the 60th District

added, “You are really to be commended for training our youth, and I thank you.”

Mr. Cato explained that since he and his wife opened the place several months ago, they’ve been working with young people, veterans, and others to get them trained in working in commercial kitchens as well as managing restaurants.

“We want to reach out to them, and we want to help out others less fortunate that may have had problems in the past. We are offering them the stepping stone they need and helping them get the things it takes to build a resume,” said Cato.

“A lot of people want to be restaurant managers. But I tell them they cannot do that without the proper training,” said Cato, originally from Newport News, VA., a self-described “Army brat.”

“They have to start from the bottom up.

They have to learn how to wash dishes, and all the other things, like I had to do.”

The Fuller Center in Waukegan, a faith-driven non-profit has been bringing teens and preteens to The Lasagna Stop occasionally after school, where they are given tours and lessons about the ins and outs of working in restaurant kitchens: from the proper techniques of handling utensils, to very important sanitation methods. The experience is invaluable.

Before officials, friends and family lined up to cut a billowy red ribbon out in front of the place on this icy afternoon last month, a small group of construction workers donning neon yellow vests made their way to the front counter to place orders for Italian beef sandwiches, chicken wings, and of course the soon-to-befamous fried barbecue ribs.

The Lasagna Stop is at 1536 Sheridan Road, North Chicago. Call 847.672.9049 for more information.

Above, well-wishers gather before a ribbon cutting is held. From left is State Representative Rita Mayfield, Lasagna Stop manager Billy Vaughn, owners Ed and Pinkie Cato, and North Chicago Mayor Leon Rockingham.

Left, young adults learn the basics of working in a professional kitchen at the Lasagna Stop. - photo courtesy of Fuller Center

Below, a plate of fried BBQ ribs.

Left, students stop by after school with staff from the Fuller Center so they can learn restaurant operations. - photo

courtesy of the Fuller Center

The Lasagna Stop held a formal grand opening with a ribbon cutting including friends, family and officials including Mayor Leon Rockingham. - photos by Tina Johansson

theYOUjournal

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Go TO JJ Blinkers for the unique and memorable Romance, Beads, Bunnies & Shamrocks!

What do these things have in common? You can find all these at JJ BLINKERS Joke, Magic & Costume Shop in Downtown Antioch!

What Mother Nature throws our way regarding the weather in the Midwest during the first quarter of the New Year, we have found ways to overcome it. Fun ways to get out and celebrate!

JJ BLINKERS is here to help!

Valentine’s Day! Sure, you can find Candy and Teddy Bears and Cards everywhere... but here is where the REAL romance starts! All of you Romantic Lovers out there will surely find things you don’t find in too many places.

Pick out one of the pre-made Romance Baskets or create your own--- we’ll help put it all together for you! If you are one of those parents who give their kids Valentines, create one with Tricks & Gags!

Mardi Gras! Not able to fly to New Orleans this time of year? There are lots of places to go around in your own neighborhood! Mardi Gras Themed parties are a big hit not only at Mardi Gras time, but year-round! Find your favorite Beads & Masquerade masks at JJ BLINKERS! From feathers and sequins to intricate laser-cut lace masks...beads by the piece or bag...wear them or decorate your walls with them. Come see our amazing selection!

Easter Bunnies! Hippity-Hoppity Easter’s on it’s way! Easter Bunnies are always fun while you are doing your Easter Egg-Hunt! At JJ BLINKERS you can Rent or Buy a big-headed bunny suit! We also have bunny ears and tails or get a bonnet to make your own Easter Bonnet!

St. Patrick’s Day! You don’t have to be Irish to enjoy this day! We have top hats, derby’s, beads, buttons, bow ties, red whiskers and LOTS more to dress yourself up and celebrate the day in style!

Life is what your make it....so make it more fun with JJ BLINKERS! We are much bigger than we look from the outside and if you haven’t had a chance to stop in during the last 30 years of business...we hope you will soon.

Tell us if it’s your first time here, and you will get to have a pair of our silly, fun paper glasses.

GREAT FOR SELFIES!

JJ Blinkers is located at 896 N. Route 83 in charming downtown Antioch, six blocks north of Rte. 173. So pack up the family and head on over. There’s always something going on! (Ample parking in front and back) For more information call: 847.395.3770 or visit them at www.JJBlinkers.com.

Beautiful visitor

To our surprise this lovely Red Fox came to pay us a visit on a recent Sunday morning.

What a joy it was to witness this creature as it laid down to rest, then jump up as it spotted its breakfast. - photos by Tina Johansson

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The Best of Everything (in our opinion)

Aldi’s Chocolate Creme Cake

Indulge in cost-saving and delicious cake from Aldi stores. The triple chocolate crème cake is chocolaty, moist and decadently good. It is drizzled with slender ribbons of dark chocolate and topped with baby semi-sweet chocolate chips. But the cake alone, if it had no toppings, would be well worth eating. It is moist and creamy – hence the name.

The 20-ounce cake, nearly three inches thick and about five inches across, is enough to satisfy eight to ten. Per slice servings carry 230 calories.

At $2.99, the 20-ounce cake is not only sinfully delicious but inexpensive. It comes in a sturdy plastic container which can be closed to preserve its freshness.

It’s shelf life is longer than you might think; but take it from us—it won’t be on your counter very long! - Long Hwa-shu

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February 2015

theYOUjournal

Where are they now?

He was a rockin’ county board member

She was the first female coroner Barbara Richardson, Lake County’s first woman coroner who retired in 2003 after more than 26 years on the job, has recently downsized, moving to a townhouse in Gurnee.

She is on the board of the Midwestern Regional Medical Center of the Cancer Treatment Centers of America in Zion.

“It’s pretty hard for me to enjoy retirement.

I’ve worked all my life. I had a newspaper route when I was 12,” said Ms. Richardson, 86, a lifelong Republican who graduated from Warren Township High School.

“I enjoyed every job I had,” she recalled fondly a life of fulfillment of public service.

She was one of the first seven employees of the College of Lake County when it was first started in Waukegan.

A pioneer in the women’s movement, she is the founder of the Lake County Women’s Coalition and also the Women in Government Wing in Lake County.

The coalition, she said, will celebrate on March 7 the National Women’s History Month by honoring 15 area women for their achieve-

Barbara Richardson, the first female coroner of Lake County keeps busy with library and church work. -photos courtesy of Barbara Richardson

ment. It will be held at the Brae Lock Country Club in Grayslake.

Richardson achieved another first. She was the first woman elected to the Grayslake Grade School istrict 46 in the early 60s.

In the same cul-de-sac where she lives, she counts among her close neighbors former Gurnee Mayor Richard Welton and his wife, Debbie; George Anne Depke, widow of Robert Depke, former Lake County Board chairman and Warren Township supervisor.

Richardson’s late husband, Don Cannon, passed away in 2007. Mr. Cannon owned a service station in Third Lake. They were married for 20 years.

Richardson has one son and two daughters.

Jim is a facility engineer for Abbott Laboratories. The two daughters are Jill who lives in Los Angeles and Jodi in Atlanta. She has six grandchildren and three great grandsons.

To keep herself busy, she is active as a member of the Gurnee Exchange Club, the Friends of Warren-Newport Library and the Gurnee Community Church. - Long Hwa-shu

Larry Leafblad, 22, center on sax, performing with the Scotch Lads at the former Wing ‘n Fin club on Sullivan Lake Road in what is now the Village of Lakemoor.

At age 72, former Lake County board member Larry Leafblad doesn’t look far from the baby-faced, blondie he once was.

Now an independent consultant for Ambit Energy, Leafblad of Highland Lake in Avon Township, held a county board seat from 1990 – 2008. He did run for District 31 state senate in 2012 (defeated in the primary by Joe Neal), but said he has no plans to run for office again.

Instead he is focusing on his passion – performing rock and roll shows. Leafblad holds several titles: lead singer and saxophone player.

“Everybody in the band doubles on something,” he said. “(My band) the Scotch Lads has been around 50 years this March,” said Leafblad, who grew up in Grayslake and is currently president of his Highland Lake homeowners association.

“It’s really a phenomenon. We’re almost as old as the Rolling Stones.”

He recalls his first gig like it were yesterday.

“We performed at the Grayslake Fire Department dance in 1965. Back then we did wedding receptions and fireman’s dances.”

The Scotch Lads are “a rock and roll band with horns,” performing five decades of music, explained Leafblad.

Playing gigs whenever they have time, is something the band craves. “We might be old geezers now but the folks like to come out to the park and hear us, so we’re still playing.”

Leafblad noted that he’s the only original band member left in the group, and he’s also the oldest.

While a member of the Army Reserves who also played in the Army bands from 1964 1970, Leafblad met two of the current players of the Scotch Lads: Ray Trusky (drummer) of Waukegan and Bob Schmidt (keyboards) from Antioch. Jerry Kuta (bass) is from Wisconsin and John Vitale (guitar) of Chicago.

Last summer the Scotch Lads performed a concert in Veteran’s Memorial Park in McHenry, and also had some gigs in Madison, Wis. “We do have to practice before hand so we can remember the words,” quipped Leafblad.

The band has plans to perform a show for the

Waukegan High School Class of ’65 reunion this summer.

And in the meantime he continues to work, maybe slowing down a bit, but no plans for retirement. “I’m having a blast,” he said of working for the alternative energy company.

The same goes for his musical career. “We will continue with the band until the day we die,” he said.

Always light-hearted, Leafblad added, “We might have to be propped up by our walkers, though.”

Above, Barbara Richardson during a campaign interview in the early 80s.

Larry Leafblad, former county board member has performed with his band for 50-years. - photos courtesy of Larry Leafblad

theYOUjournal

February 2015

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February 2015

theYOUjournal