Me: IN FOCUS February 2010 by The LB Group

:IN FOCUS FEBRUARY 2010

+ SPOTLIGHT ON

MODEL + ACTRESS

JERRITA HALL

HEART TO HEART LOVE YOUR BODY

PUCKER UP! SEAL A KISS WITH THE SEASON`S HOTTEST LIP COLORS

DIVINE OR DEVIOUS LINGERIE TO MATCH YOUR MOOD

ROMANCE +REALISM: CONVERSATION WITH AUTHOR BRENDA DELLA CASA

WHERE RUNWAY MEETS REALITY, STYLE MEETS SUBSTANCE + HAUTE MEETS HEART™ www.meinfocusmag.com

EDITOR’S LETTER

CONTENTS

ME: IN FOCUS

Bian “Bee” Li Shares Her Thoughts

What’s Inside This Month

Who We Are

Dear Readers,

Scenes: Out & About and On the Town 4

This issue is all about love. From Valentine’s Day hot spots to heart health, from romance to realism, we focus on the loves in our lives - love for our passions, significant others, family and friends - and more importantly, love for yourself - your body, mind and soul. If you open your heart, love will find you. In addition, we pass on our love to those most in need - for every purchase of this issue and every subscription ordered in February, 10% of all proceeds will go to the International Medical Corps for their relief efforts in Haiti. Be Good. Bee

b e

e B STYLE ME. ENTERTAIN ME. INFORM ME. INDULGE ME. INSPIRE ME. EMPOWER ME.™

For single issue or subscription purchases, please visit: www.meinfocusmag.com

FOUNDER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Bian Li

Rants + Raves: 6 Divine or Devious: Lingerie to Match Your Mood 8 Chinese New Year: Year of the Tiger 10 Heart to Heart: With Our Model Role Model Jerrita Hall 12 Pucker Up!: We Send Our Love to You With the Hottest Lip Colors of the Season 18 Cinderella Was a Liar: Conversation with Author and Romance Guru Brenda Della Casa 19 Fabulously Single + Fabulously Attached: 20 Fond-ooh!: The Perfect V-Day Indulgence 22 Hot Spots: Cozy Places to Find Tables for Two 24 Fitness: Keeping Your Promise to Yourself in the New Year 26 Two Olympians: Interviews with Our Hometown Athletes 28 Jet Set: Grab Your Honey and Go 32 A Midsummer’s Night: Merida, Mexico 34 Portrait of a Life: by Student Photographer Emily Maehl 36 Calendar: February Never Looked Better with Artwork by Illustrator Peter Breese 38

MANAGER SPONSORSHIP & EVENTS Christine Nicholls DESIGN DIRECTOR Diana Dittmer CREATIVE CONSULTANTS Alex Albrecht Ricardo Ford OFFICE MANAGER Arlene Gutierrez CONTRIBUTORS Iya Bakare Kerry Sayers Olivia St. Clair CONTACT Advertising adsales@meinfocusmag.com christine@meinfocusmag.com Content editor@meinfocusmag.com Subscriptions subscribe@meinfocusmag.com Submissions submissions@meinfocusmag.com General Inquiries info@meinfocusmag.com info@meinfocusstudios.com www.meinfocusmag.com www.meinfocusstudios.com

Buzz: The Lovely Bones Film Review by Brianna Calkin of Chick Flick Reviews 39

ON THE COVER Jerrita Hall Jerrita lets loose and reveals her true, beautiful self. We asked her to show off her natural hair: simple, chic and understated. Photography by Danny Finley

Copyright© 2010 Me: IN FOCUS/The LB Group LLC. All Rights Reserved. All text, images, graphics and other materials in this publication and the website are subject to the copyright and other intellectual property rights of Me: IN FOCUS/The LB Group LLC and other respective contributors, affiliates and/or submitters. These materials may not be reproduced, distributed, modified or reposted to other publications or websites without the express written permission of Me: IN FOCUS/The LB Group LLC or other respective copyright holders. The photos on the following pages of this issue, unless otherwise credited, are copyrighted property of The LB Group LLC and express written permission must be granted for any usage. Any photos not noted above, and not specifically credited, are obtained from publicly shared/open license sources and/or databases. The marks appearing in this publication and/or the website including, but not limited to: (i) The LB Group LLC; and (ii) Me: IN FOCUS and its respective logos, images, emblems, phrases, slogans, designs, and mottos; are trademarks of The LB Group LLC, its brands and affiliates. The information contained herein is designed to be as contextual and factual as possible, per our best efforts and the information and/or resources available and/or provided to us at the time. We reserve the right, however, to make changes at any time, without notice, in the editing of the publication therein for clarity, brevity, content, and purpose. Some links and/or contact information provided in this publication may lead to websites and/ or establishments/businesses by independent third party owners. The information presented therein is the sole responsibility of those independent third party owners. The LB Group LLC and Me: IN FOCUS have no control or responsibility for the content of independent sites and/or nature of third party establishments/businesses and we provide these links and/or contact information to our readers solely for their convenience.

FEBRUARY 2010 ME: IN FOCUS 3

SCENES ME: IN FOCUS OUT AND ABOUT AND ON THE TOWN! Where we’ve been and what we’ve been doing since last issue

Me: IN FOCUS Studios has now officially opened to the public due to popular demand. www.meinfocusstudios.com

Me: IN FOCUS magazine mixes work and play. Having a blast with photoshoots in our studio space!

We enjoyed Evanston native Jessie Arlen’s CD Launch concert titled ‘Certain Surprise’. Check out her interview in the March issue. http://jessiearlen.com

4 ME: IN FOCUS FEBRUARY 2010

Hush Magazine pre-production celebration. Me: IN FOCUS Editor Bee Li was interviewed for a segment on Cover Chicago TV.

Our January interview with rising star and Chicago plus size model Lauren A. Koenig was featured on Madisonplus.com, a premier fashion website for plus size women. www.madisonplus.com

BURIED CARS

FROZEN PIPES

For those of us not lucky enough to have designated parking, it’s never fun to walk out to your car only to find that the street is clean, but your car is beneath a thick layer of snow and ice from the plows.

Apparently this happens more than we think. During winter months, always remember to never turn off the heat entirely to avoid flooding from frozen pipes bursting.

RANTS WHAT’S ANNOYING US While there’s much to love about Chicago, here are some things that could be better

LACK OF HEALTHY LATE NIGHT DELIVERY If only we had more healthy options, then we wouldn’t feel bad in the morning after giving in to our 3am cravings.

FROZEN PARKING METERS It’s bad enough that it’s so expensive. Parking meter problems are never ending.

6 ME: IN FOCUS FEBRUARY 2010

BROKEN HEAT LAMPS ON EL Can we say BRRRRRRR?

ALL-IN ONE COMPUTERS This stylish and affordable Acer desktop model is sleek and completely wireless. The 23-inch touch screen is perfect for designers. All-In-One Desktop PC $899.00 www.acer.com

EXOTIC SCRUBS Bath & Body Works® Signature Collection offers this seductive, floral scent inspired by the gardens of Japan. Exfoliating sugar crystals combined with aloe and jojoba + almond oils leave skin feeling silky smooth.

RAVES WHAT’S THRILLING US Here are some of the practical things in our lives that make our day better

Japanese Cherry Blossom Body Scrub $15.00 www.bathandbodyworks.com

CHIC LAPTOP BAGS This ultra stylish laptop bag by Juicy Couture combines fashion and function. You will surely turn heads as you tote your laptop around town. Laptop Sleeve in Fuchsia $98.00 www.chiclaptopbags.com www.juicycouture.com

STYLISH COMMUTE BOOTS Gabriella Rocha’s comfortable and hip boots are perfect for the winter commute. The full side zipper makes them easy to slip on when you’re running late in the morning. Gabriella Rocha Pauline Boots $129.95 www.zappos.com

a a + a a Editor’s Pick

Sales Director’s Pick

Design Director’s Pick

Stylist’s Pick

LOVELY SCENTS The Body Shop® offers a light, candy scent. It’s the first Eau De Parfum to feature alcohol made from a fair trade and organic ingredients, promoting environmental sustainability and biodiversity. 100% of the profits are donated to EPCAT, an organization that aims to End Child Prostitution, Child Pornography and Child Trafficking. LOVE ETC...™ $29.50 ~ 1.69oz $24.00 ~ 1oz www.thebodyshop-usa.com

a Editor’s Pick

FEBRUARY 2010 ME: IN FOCUS 7

7 SILK RUFFLE TRIM BABYDOLL Victoria’s Secret $42

ALL DOTS BABYDOLL Frederick’s of Hollywood $36

RACHEL MCADAMS

LINGERIE TO MATCH YOUR MOOD

LUXURIOUS SENSUAL HIP BABYDOLL THE HIP G THONG Underthings $68/$16

Shown here as Allie Hamilton from The Notebook, Rachel represents our picture perfect vision of peaches and cream

THEA BABYDOLL THEA LR THONG Underthings $68/$16

8 ME: IN FOCUS FEBRUARY 2010

DIVINE

SEXY LITTLE THINGS Victoria’s Secret $58

GIRL IN EVERY PORT BRA RUFFLE HIGH WAIST BLOOMER G Boutique $64/$14

MARINA CUTOUT TEDDY G Boutique $58

SHEER RIBBONS COUNTOUR BRA/THONG Underthings $60/$22

DITA VON TEESE

DEVIOUS

Sweet but sultry queen of modern day pin up and burlesque bombshell, Dita is our inspiration and the undisputed definition of the word

BACK TO BASIC CORSET Frederick’s of Hollywood $54

ALL TIED UP BABYDOLL G Boutique $82 KOHL FLORAL CAMIDOLL/THONG G Boutique $52/$16 BOUDOIR TORSOLETTE/THONG Underthings $145/$40

8 FEBRUARY 2010 ME: IN FOCUS 9

SHOP FOR THESE ITEMS: Frederick`s of Hollywood: www.fredericks.com, G Boutique: www.boutiqueg.com, Victoria`s Secret: www.victoriassecret.com, Underthings: 773 472 9291

NEVER SAY NEVER CUTIE THONGS Underthings $20

YOUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;RE INVITED! Like many holidays, Chinese New Year is about peace, prosperity and being with friends and family. As part of the Me: IN FOCUS family, you're invited to join us on February 12 as we celebrate good fortune with great food at our favorite restaurant in Chinatown. For more details and to RSVP, please visit our website: www.meinfocusmag.com

HAPPY CHINESE NEW YEAR YEAR OF THE TIGER Coincidentally, February 14 is also Chinese New Year, the most important holiday in the Chinese culture. Here are some of the ways it is celebrated throughout the world. PHOTOGRAPHY BY BIAN LI

Lanterns light up the night. They come in all shapes and sizes.

Jiaozi (Potstickers) are a popular dish. They symbolize togetherness as families reunite for the holiday.

恭喜发财

The Chinese zodiac is based on a 12-year lunar cycle. This year is the Year of the Tiger. People born in this year are said to be brave, competitive and engaging.

Stuffed with money, red envelopes are given to children and subordinates as a token of good fortune.

Lighting firecrackers are one of the most popular activities during Chinese New Year.

A traditional custom includes visiting a local temple to bless loved ones and wish for good luck in the new year.

新年快乐

PHOTOGRAPHY

Danny Finley www.dannyjive.com CLOTHING

Bryan K. Osburn Collection www.nationalitiesbeautyfirm.com

Fox’s www.foxs.com STYLIST

Ogi Merzier MAKEUP

Malgorzata Gorniak

HE RT HE RT WITH MODEL + ACTRESS JERRITA HALL February is American Heart Month. Heart disease is the number one killer of women in the country. It’s never been more important to take control of our health, starting by improving our daily habits. Chicago native Jerrita Hall, 29, shares her inspiring story of how she transformed her life from 245 pounds (size 22) to a healthy 155 pounds (size 8). In addition to modeling and acting, Jerrita is also a personal trainer and hopes to inspire others to be healthy.

12 ME: IN FOCUS FEBRUARY 2010

JERRITA`S FAVORITE QUOTE

“In order to succeed, your desire for success should be greater than your fear of failure.” ~Bill Cosby

Q: Were you always overweight and how did that affect you growing up? A: I have always been overweight as a child, into adolescence and my early adult years. I had low self confidence and low self esteem. I had a rough childhood; my mother became disabled when I was 10 years old so I had to take on a large responsibility of helping my parents. It was beyond difficult, so in turn I would eat to make myself happy. Q: Was there a particular moment when you decided to finally take control of your weight problem? A: I was 21 years old when I decided that I wanted to lose weight. I remember going shopping one day and trying on jeans. I was normally a size 18/20 but this particular day going shopping was different. I had been depressed and wanted a quick fix, and shopping always helped! I tried on the 18/20 but they were too small, so I tried on a size 22/24, which fit just right. I pur-

chased the pants and as I left the store I vowed to myself to never let my pants size exceed my age. Q: How hard was it to begin the process of losing weight? Did you ever find yourself tempted to go back to your old ways? A: It was extremely hard to begin the process of losing weight; the education, dedication and lack of support were the biggest hurdles I had to overcome in order to get started. I had to read and understand what I needed to do and how I needed to do it. I had to dedicate myself to sticking to my plan of eating healthy and making a lifestyle change - not dieting. Dieting works for a vacation or a short term fix. The decision to lose more than 40 to 50 pounds requires a lifestyle change to maintain results. I did not find myself tempted to go back to my old ways once I gave up those habits, but I found it harder to keep up with doing more and more to stay healthy.

“I was 21 years old when I decided that I wanted to lose weight…I vowed to never let my pants size exceed my age.”

Before/ Jerrita in High School at her heaviest weight. FEBRUARY 2010 ME: IN FOCUS 13

This look is custom designed by Bryan K. Osburn: 773 673 0067

JERRITA`S OWN ROLE MODELS

A PERSONAL ROLE MODEL would be my mother; she had three strokes at age 36. Her livelihood was cut short though she is still living and getting around well with assistance from family, friends and me. She is my inspiration for exploring my passions in life. If you never try you never know the result. My mom had dreams and could not accomplish them due to her disability. I tell people that you never know how it feels to want to do the simplest things and can't because of a physical handicap. Therefore, if you have the ability, don’t let any obstacles stop you from achieving your dreams in life. A PROFESSIONAL ROLE MODEL would be Oprah. Oprah has accomplished so much, but she started with a dream, a genuine heart and a strong spirit. These three important attributes are the foundation for success. She impacts lives of so many by being ‘free’. Healing, overcoming stereotypes and following her own path are great inspirations in my own life.

“My mother became disabled when I was 10 years old. I had to take on a large responsibility of helping my parents...it was beyond difficult, so I would eat to make myself happy.” Q: How did you stay motivated to lose the weight and how long did it take? What type of exercises were most effective? A: I stayed motivated because of my family history of certain diseases, which was always in the back of my mind. I also desired to lose the weight and look like a young lady would want to: healthy and fit by her own standards. I found that cardio, weight training and getting outside worked best. I love cardio because it gets my heart rate up and allows me to burn more calories when 16 ME: IN FOCUS FEBRUARY 2010

I reach my target heart rate. Weight training allows me to tone and lengthen my muscles and also increases my strength and endurance. Getting outside is more for a therapeutic experience more than anything, allowing me to become one with nature. Activities such as hiking, bicycling and walking are also great forms of exercise. Q: What is your life like now? Were you treated any differently after you made the transformation?

A: My life at this present time is on a positive journey. I noticed some people treating me differently along the way because I was doing something different and trying to better myself in the process. Women usually commend me for losing weight and ask how they could do what I did. Men would do the same and sometimes were a bit more supportive in the process. Q: What has been the biggest personal change in your life after losing weight? Do

you still have body image issues or are you comfortable with yourself?

“As women, we shouldn’t worry too much about ‘What we should be’ or ‘What we ought to be’ in terms of weight. As long as you are healthy and comfortable with your body, then embrace it and love yourself—Mind, Body and Spirit.”

A: The biggest personal change in my life has been the level of confidence, self esteem and determination I gained. I do sometimes still feel like a ‘fat’ girl stuck in a smaller body but I have lost 90 pounds and am proud of myself. I am just starting to grasp the mental adjustment that needs to happen for me to look in the mirror and be comfortable with what I see. Although its very difficult for women not to get sucked into the societal expectations for a certain weight, I believe that as long as you are proud of yourself and your accomplishments with your body, embrace it and love yourself- mind, body and spirit. Q: What's your fitness routine now and how do you keep the weight off?

activities. I have a busy schedule but I always manage to fit in my exercise, healthy eating, meditation and prayer. I keep the weight off now by maintaining a healthy lifestyle. I don’t overeat like I used to. I take healthy snacks with me if I’m not at home. I also have more self control. Q: For those that want to make a lifestyle transformation, what’s your advice? A: I have overcome the past and the struggles that held me back. Life is about change; nothing stays the same. Still, many people allow certain things in their lives to hold them back from making a change for the better. When we realize that change must come from within ourselves, it allows us to be free. This is how I keep the weight off now. I am free of the old me and am ready for the journey ahead.

A: My fitness routine now consists of a workout three to four days out of the week. Some days, I even work out twice a day, whether it’s a DVD workout, cardio, Pilates, yoga, weight training, or outdoor

“I do still feel like a fat girl stuck in a smaller body, but I have lost 90 pounds and I am very proud of myself. I am just starting to grasp the mental adjustment that needs to happen for me to look in the mirror and be comfortable with what I see.”

FEBRUARY 2010 ME: IN FOCUS 17

STYLE

PUCKER UP! We send our love to you with the hottest lip colors of the season SELECTIONS BY MAKEUP ARTIST MALGORZATA GORNIAK

M A C LIPSTICK Russian Red MAC COSMETICS $14 www.maccosmetics.com

SMASHBOX LIP ENHANCING GLOSS Pout SEPHORA $18 www.sephora.com

SMASHBOX PHOTO FINISH LIPSTICK Delightful SEPHORA $22 www.sephora.com

GIORGIO ARMANI ARMANISILK LIPSTICK No. 43 NORDSTROM $25 www.nordstrom.com

18 ME: IN FOCUS FEBRUARY 2010

Love, Love, Love, Love,

CINDARELLA WAS A LIAR

BRENDA DELLA CASA

CONVERSATIONS WITH AUTHOR & ROMANCE GURU BRENDA DELLA CASA

Is an internationally published author who specializes in romance, lifestyle and wellness features. Brenda has written for and been featured in dozens of major publications. She is a recent transplant to Chicago.

For her book, Brenda spent a year interviewing over 1,500 single, married and coupled men and women worldwide. We sat down with Brenda to get her expert opinion on body, sex, dating and love. Brenda shares some realistic words of wisdom below.

cinderellawasaliar.com

BODY

DATING

Ladies, relax. The truth is that most men are so much more forgiving of our bodies than we are ourselves. Most of the time, they don’t even notice the cellulite, the love handles or the perceived physical imperfections that we are so insecure about and try so hard to cover up. They are just so grateful and thrilled that we are willing to be with them that they could care less. Confidence is the sexiest characteristic of all. And don’t forget - men are insecure about their bodies too.

Men are uncomplicated. His sense of self worth is not attached to whether or not he gets a second date. Neither should yours. Don’t go into a relationship with unrealistic expectations or a sense of entitlement. You should always offer to pay on the first date. He may not accept your offer, but it shows that you were gracious and not using him for a free meal. Date yourself first. Once you are personally fulfilled, you become a happier and a more confident you. And that, to a man, is very attractive.

SEX

LOVE

Men love the hunt and the mystery. If you give it up too soon, the allure is gone. The more they have to earn the reward, the more they’ll appreciate it. Most men watch porn because they are visual creatures, not because they are attracted to you any less. If he only calls you between 11pm and 3am, especially from Thursday through Saturday, then you’re only a booty call. There’s no golden rule of when you should sleep with someone. However, NEVER sleep with someone unless you TRULY want to sleep with him and understand your motivations for doing so.

True love is never about giving up your own life to be a part of your partner’s. It’s about sharing your lives together. Ask yourself: “Does he fit into my life?” Carry yourself with dignity and respect. The biggest mistake that women make is not being their authentic self. Ask yourself: “Do I feel respected?” When taking the plunge, remember that your time and energy is better spent on being married, not getting married. Don’t over-share your intimate details with others. It hurts your brand as a couple and makes it easier for others to come between you. Happiness should never come from someone else. It comes from inside of you.

FEBRUARY 2010 ME: IN FOCUS 19

BUY YOURSELF SOMETHING NICE

THROW AN ANTI VDAY PARTY

www.lorisshoes.com

www.lincolnkaraoke.com www.bowlluckystrike.com

GO TO BRUNCH WITH FRIENDS

FABULOUSLY SINGLE

JUST THE GIRLS Who said being alone means being lonely? Here are some other ways to have a good time

www.orangerestaurantchicago.com

GIVE YOUR LOVE

BOUDOIR OR GLAMOUR SHOTS

www.pawschicago.org

Show off your sexy and single side with a one-of-a-kind photoshoot. A perfect treat for yourself and for that special somebody who's yet to come along.

studios

WATCH A GIRL POWER MOVIE :IN FOCUS

FEELING FIERCE?

The LB Group LLC, Home of Me: IN FOCUS 4256 N. Ravenswood #203, Chicago 773 935 9888 www.meinfocusstudios.com

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TAKE A COOKING CLASS TOGETHER

COUPLES MASSAGE

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FABULOUSLY ATTACHED

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JUST THE TWO OF US If you do have a honey, here are some ways to get closer BE CREATIVE

DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY

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COUPLES PHOTOS A creative way to capture your love for each other and to show off your personalities. Choose any theme you like: fun, sexy or serious.

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FEBRUARY 2010 ME: IN FOCUS 21

MANY THANKS to Pastoral Artisan for their expertise and recommendations PAIRINGS BY Pastoral Artisan Sommelier Jan Henrichsen INGREDIENTS BY Pastoral Artisan Fromager Cesar Olivares

22 ME: IN FOCUS FEBRUARY 2010

FOND-OOH! DINNER OR DESSERT, IT’S THE PERFECT V-DAY INDULGENCE

Go ga ga for your mate (or your single friends) over a gooey, warm fondue meal and a comforting drink (or two)

CHEESE OPTIONS

RECIPE

DOMESTIC/ INTERNATIONAL

Serves 2 to 4

COMTE France $25.99/lb CAVE AGED EMMENTHAL Switzerland $24.99/lb PLEASANT RIDGE RESERVE Wisconsin $25.99/lb

BEVERAGE PAIRINGS

SMALL BATCH WINE HICKORY CREEK APPLE WINE Hickory Creek Winery, Michigan $18.99

ARTISAN BEER GOOSE ISLAND PERE JACQUES Chicago, Illinois $8.99 JK’S SCRUMPY HARD CIDER (ORGANIC) Michigan $8.99

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

1 1/2 cups shredded COMTE or CAVE AGE EMMENTHAL cheese (4 oz. approx.) 1 1/2 cups shredded PLEASANT RIDGE RESERVE cheese (4 oz. approx.) Coarse sea salt Freshly ground black pepper Pinch of nutmeg 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon cornstarch PASTORAL ARTISAN 1 clove garlic Pastoral Artisan is an authentic 4 oz. white wine neighborhood cheese shop in the European tradition offering artisanal, 1 teaspoon lemon juice international and domestic cheeses, freshly baked breads and selected wines. Cubed bread, for serving Boiled, chopped potatoes, for serving All of the cheeses, small batch wines and artisan beers featured are available Mushrooms, for serving at all three locations. Asparagus, for serving 2945 N. Broadway,Chicago 53 E. Lake St., Chicago Cooked shrimp, for serving 131 N. Clinton, Chicago 800 721 4781 Sausage, for serving www.pastoralartisan.com Chopped apples and pears, for serving

1. Place 1 teaspoon salt in a fondue pot or a 2-quart stainless steel saucepan. Rub cut end of garlic over inside of pot, starting in the sea salt and coating the entire surface; discard garlic. 2. In a large bowl, mix together both cheeses and cornstarch until well combined; set aside. 3. Add wine and lemon juice to fondue pot and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Gradually add cheese mixture, whisking constantly, making sure each addition is melted before adding the next addition. 4. Reduce heat to medium and cook for 1 minute. Season with nutmeg and pepper; remove from heat and enjoy with your serving selections.

FEBRUARY 2010 ME: IN FOCUS 23

TWO TO TANGO RITZ TANGO CAFÉ Nothing says romance like the sensuality of Argentine Tango. Co-owners Dinah D’Antoni and Jorge Niedas combined their passion for dance and food into the Ritz Tango Café. The café is a tiny bit of Buenos Aires right here in Chicago, where coffee lovers and milongueros (tango dancers) share the floor.

933 N. Ashland Ave., Chicago 773 235 CAFÉ (2233) www.ritztangocafe.com

24 ME: IN FOCUS FEBRUARY 2010

Photograph by Bian Li of Me: IN FOCUS Studios

For more information and to join one of their many milongas (mixers), call or visit the website.

a Editor’s Pick

Good food, good company and good conversation.

SOCCA

HOT SPOTS BEST FOR LOVE BIRDS Cozy places to find tables for two

A stylish Mediterranean inspired restaurant in Lakeview that’s perfect for both late night dining or a Valentine’s Day brunch. 3301 N. Clark St., Chicago 773 248 1155 www.soccachicago.com

YES THAI

WEBSTER’S WINEBAR

A modern restaurant in the heart of Andersonville with exceptional service and yummy curries. Great for both singles and couples. Vegan Friendly.

Dimly-lit venue with gourmet, smallportioned food selections and extensive wine list. Their global wine flight menu is a must try and a deliciously fun way to start a lovely evening.

5211 N. Damen, Chicago 773 878 3487 www.yesthaichicago.com

1480 W. Webster Ave., Chicago 773 868 0608 www.websterwinebar.com

ROSE ANGELIS

FRANCESCA’S AMICI

BISTRO CAMPAGNE

Located in a quiet part of Lincoln Park, this hidden gem boasts a charming patio and an intimate setting.

A small, quaint restaurant located in the heart of Elmhurst. Perfect ambiance and lighting for a romantic night. Winner of OpenTable.com’s Diner’s Choice Award last year.

A charming, simple French restaurant in Lincoln Square known for its organic menu and easy atmosphere.

1314 W. Wrightwood Ave., Chicago 773 296 0081 www.roseangelis.com

174 N. York Rd., Elmhurst 630 279 7970 www.miafrancesca.com

4518 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago 773 271 6100 www.bistrocampagne.com

FEBRUARY 2010 ME: IN FOCUS 25

INFORM NFORM

FITNESS KEEPING YOUR PROMISE TO YOURSELF IN THE NEW YEAR This month, it's all about staying focused so we can stick to our resolution BY KERRY SAYERS

As February begins, we often find that the fitness resolutions we made in January are getting off track. According to Health Net, more than 100 million Americans make a New Year’s resolution to lose weight or get fit. Unfortunately, about four of every five people who make resolutions fail to keep them. This year, why not keep your resolution by permanently eliminating the ‘D’ word– diet—from your vocabulary. “A lot of people have tried diets - Weight Watchers, Jenny Craig, Atkins - and it’s just a cycle. They go on it, they lose weight, stop and then most gain the weight right back. Rather, we must work on behavior change,” says Registered Dietician Jennifer Vimbor of Nutrition Counseling Services in the Loop. “You don't have to fail.

n 26 ME: IN FOCUS FEBRUARY 2010

Failing in the past has been a result of those diets. We focus more on overall behavior when it comes to nutrition.” Vimbor insists that those expecting instant results will be disappointed and that everything worth while takes time and hard work. “We like to take things one step at a time. Focus on taking it slow and work on one behavior until it becomes habitual. Then, it’s ok to start introducing other behaviors. It’s a slow process so they're not returning within a year with the same problem.” An example of behavioral change is water intake. If you're not drinking enough water, which is very important because it flushes your food through, you should pinpoint exactly how much you need based on your lifestyle. Buy two to three water



bottles; bring one to work and keep one at home. Commit to drinking up to 64 ounces a day - more if needed, and then try to incorporate something else along the way. Remember to keep in mind that it’s important to introduce a new behavior rather than take something away. “There’s nothing that you have to eat or absolutely cannot eat - that’s where people go wrong. If you’re doing well and can’t get pizza out of your mind, then by all means have the pizza,” Vimbor says. “If you’re doing well the rest of the time, it won’t make a difference. It’s when you repeat the bad habit every day that it becomes a problem.” Another habit Vimbor tries to help clients lose is being consumed with counting everything they eat.

BEHAVIOR CHANGE IS THE KEY Registered Dietician Jennifer Vimbor of Nutrition Counseling Services in the Loop suggests a focus on overall behavior when it comes to nutrition. To learn more, visit: www.chicagonutritionist.com

“Whether it’s counting calories, or counting fat - I don’t want them to develop poor habits,” she says. “And counting calories, can be dangerous behavior since it can lead to eating disorders. Therefore, we work on not counting so you can live without thinking about food all the time.” One of the best ways to keep your resolutions is to set reachable goals, whether it’s regarding food or exercise habits. Jen DePaulo, a certified personal trainer and manager for Women’s Workout World in Chicago, offers a few other tips to stay on track. 1. If significant weight loss is a priority, break the number down into smaller goals. For example, focus on losing a number of pounds per month rather than focusing on an overall final number.

2. Center a program around activities you like to do instead of those you find grueling so that you are more likely to keep doing them. 3. Work out with a friend. Workouts are more fun and you can motivate each other. 4. Incorporate cross training into your routine, which means not only working out with equipment, but taking classes as well. 5. Vary the types of classes you take. Learning something new prevents you from hitting plateaus and keeps your program fresh. 6. Write your goals down and post them at home and at work so you are constantly reminded and motivated to achieve them. 7. Determine where you’d like to be in 2011 so if you fall off pace, you won’t be down for long. If the thought of starting

over after breaking your normal routine over the holidays is daunting, DePaulo offers good news. “Muscle has memory, so its not going to take you as long to get back to where you were before,” she says. “Don’t worry. Everyone gets derailed and everyone takes the wrong turn sometimes. You just have to get back on the road.” “Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and fitness routine is a lifelong journey. You’re never going to reach the destination because it’s an ongoing process.”

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TWOOLYMPIANS GOING FOR THE GOLD INTERVIEWS WITH TWO OF OUR HOMETOWN ATHLETES

Photograph by Tre Scott

BOBSLED + WEIGHTLIFTING

INGRID MARCUM Q: Weightlifting is typically thought of as a non-traditional sport for women. How did you get into it? A: I was actually a gymnast for 20 years. After I finished competitive gymnastics at the age of 21, I still wanted to continue competing since I always was a very strong athlete. I took a weight lifting course, discovered that I loved it and was told by the instructor that I had potential to compete. At the first meet, I qualified for secondary nationals, and I havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t looked back since. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been a great experience for me since I never realized that unlike a lot of other sports, there might be things you can start on in your twenties. Q: How did you get into bobsledding? A: I was at a strength coaching convention. When I was on the expo floor, two bobsled coaches saw me lifting. They try to recruit athletes who have built up strength and endurance in other sports, like weightlifting. Then they apply these skills to bobsledding.

A: I’m the brakeman. The brakemen lets the driver do his or her job. Count the curves, memorize the track and know where all the big turns are. We train a lot for the push at the start of the race. You can lose a race with a poor start. Q: What’s it like to be an Olympic hopeful and what have been some highlights of your career so far? A: All together, it’s been amazing just to have the opportunity, especially since not a lot of people in two sports get to achieve their dreams. I love to travel the world and meet people. One of the big highlights for me so far was when I won the National Weightlifting Championships in Chicago at UIC last June. After that win, I went straight into bobsled season. It’s an honor to represent my country in international competition and to have support of the fans. Q: What’s your training regimen as the Olympics approaches? A: I left home on August 31. Between then

and now I have literally been home for two weeks. During the actual competitive season from November to February we’re in a different city every week. The tour is different every year. So far I’ve had two weeks training in Whistler. We also went to Park City and Lake Placid. From there we flew to Europe to race. Q: Of all the bobsled tracks you’ve raced on, do you have a favorite? A: The track in St. Moritz, Austria, is pretty amazing. It’s the only natural track in the world. Most tracks look like a concrete waterslide that they ice over. In St. Moritz, however, they actually build the track out of ice and snow each year, so it’s a little different each season. Q: For your weightlifting events, how much can you lift? A: There are two types of lifts – the Snatch and the Clean and Jerk. Both lifts start with the bar over your head. The Snatch is the first lift event and is considered the most technical lift. On a Snatch lift, I can lift 205 pounds. With the Clean and Jerk, my best lift has been 245 pounds. Q: What is some advice that you would give to young women athletes? A: Don’t be afraid to go in the gym and work hard. Being strong is very empowering. I’m able to do the things I do because I lift, because I take care of my body. It’s a great addition to your life. You’re going to keep everything strong. FITNESS IS THE ONLY FOUNTAIN OF YOUTH THAT WE HAVE. Having muscle on my body

Photographs on left and right: Claus Willemer website: artistphoto.de

Photograph by Tre Scott

Q: What’s your role on the bobsled team?

makes me feel feminine and sexy. I really want to educate women on the benefits of weight training. They shouldn’t have to fear gaining muscle will make them bigger or less attractive.

INGRID MARCUM

PERSONAL SPECS HOMETOWN Elmhurst, IL AGE 34 HEIGHT/WEIGHT 5’6”/165 lbs. EVENTS WEIGHTLIFTING BOBSLEDDING PERFORMANCE 2009 + 2010 WORLD CUP BRAKEWOMAN FOR BREE SCHAAF 4th (Park City, 11/09) 5th (Winterberg, 12/09) 2009 NATIONAL BOBSLED PUSH CHAMPIONSHIP 4th 2008 + 2009 AMERICA’S CUP Bronze (Park City, 10/08) Bronze #2 (Park City, 10/08) Gold (Calgary, 11/08) Gold #2 (Calgary, 11/08) Bronze (Lake Placid, 11/08) Bronze #2 (Lake Placid, 11/08)

FEBRUARY 2010 ME: IN FOCUS 29

Photographs on right and left: courtesy of Katherine Reutter

KATHERINE REUTTER SHORT TRACK SPEEDSKATING

Q: Have you always been a competitor? When you first started skating, were the Olympics always your goal? A: I started skating at the age of four. I originally was a figure skater, but transitioned to speed skating at age 5, which I liked better. I never really began competing with the Olympics as my ultimate goal, but as I started doing well in competitions, I sort of fell into the Olympic track and began seriously training for the event. Q: What types of sacrifices did you have to make growing up as an athlete from a young age? A: When my hometown training facility closed, I had to travel every other weekend, and soon after every weekend to train in St. Louis. I spent so much time training that I missed a lot of things, like dances, other extracurricular activities, normal teenage stuff. However, I wouldn’t trade a thing since it made me who I am today and given me so many other opportunities. Q: What was it like when you found out you made the Olympic team? A: When I found out in September, I didn’t really have time to process the fact that I made the team. We immediately flew to China for the World Cup. It’s an honor to represent my country. Q: Does your family travel with you when you train? Are any of them athletes?

A: My dad was a big influence – he was a skater and coached me early on. After I moved to Salt Lake City to train, I lived on my own since it would have been too difficult to have my family travel with me everywhere I went. Q: What’s your regular daily training regimen? Has it become more intense in the weeks leading up to the Olympics? A: It’s intense. We usually train six to 10 hours a day. Summer training is actually more intense. Between March and April we get a couple weeks to go home and visit my family. Q: What are some of the most memorable experiences you’ve had in your career so far? A: I’ve really enjoyed the opportunities to travel – to see so many new places, difficult cultures and meet so many new people from all over the world at my competitions. For example, I got to travel to China and Japan, places I would never probably have traveled to on my own as a small town gi rl from the Mi dwe st. You realize that despite all our differences, people are people. Q: What advice would you give to young girls who want to become an Olympian? A: Anything worth it is worth sacrificing and working hard for. I TRULY BELIEVE IN THE PHILOSOPHY THAT IF BETTER IS POSSIBLE, THEN GOOD IS NOT ENOUGH.

KATHERINE REUTTER

PERSONAL SPECS HOMETOWN Champaign, IL (same hometown as her inspiration and six-time Olympic medalist Bonnie Blair) AGE 21

HEIGHT 5’7”

EVENTS 500, 1,000 + 1,500 METER 3,000 METER RELAY PERFORMANCE

Photography by of Mark Maziark

2009 WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS 4th (1500m) 5th (1500m) 13th (500m) 2008 WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS Bronze (300m) 4th (1500m) 5th (500m + relay) 19th (1000m) 2007 + 2008 Two-time Overall US Champion

FEBRUARY 2010 ME: IN FOCUS 31

PENANG This tropical, coastal Malaysian city is a calmer alternative to the bustling capital. Known for its cultural and ethnic diversity, Penang is a paradise for food lovers..

PRAGUE Old and modern Europe mesh in this bewitching Czech city. Known for its stunning fairytale-esque cityscape, Prague is a place to fall in love.

BARCELONA Bursting with Catalan pride, Barcelona is a city for the true romantic. Spectacular views, scrumptious Spanish and Basque cuisine and world renowned architecture and museums.

MERIDA Escape from the cold to the heart of the Yucatan. With its Mayan heritage, colonial influence and genuine hospitality, Merida is a place for both young lovers and old souls.

VERONA It`s easy to see how Romeo and Juliet fell in love in this idyllic setting. An easy day trip from Rome, Verona`s antiquated streets and Italian charm take you back in time.

32 ME: IN FOCUS FEBRUARY 2010

JET SET

GRAB YOUR HONEY AND GO We all know Paris is the city of love and lights, but here are a few other cities where sparks will fly...

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MORE SPECTACULAR PHOTOS of romantic Merida, Mexico

FEBRUARY 2010 ME: IN FOCUS 33

A MIDSUMMER`S NIGHT

All photographs by Bian Li of Me: IN FOCUS Studios

MERIDA, MEXICO

34 ME: IN FOCUS FEBRUARY 2010

A cultural performance in the town square

FEBRUARY 2010 ME: IN FOCUS 35

PORTRAIT A LIFE

BY EMILY MAEH Emily Maehl, 20, is a Sophomore attending the University of Illinois at Chicago. When Emily contacted us, we knew we had to share her photo essay about a woman in her life whom she admires.

Here is Emily's story, in her own words:

“MY NAME IS EMILY Joanne Maehl. I had a beginner photography course this past semester and that’s when my talent started to surface. My self-portrait work was my most successful, and my professor told me the photos had a fashion quality to them. I surprised myself by having a natural eye for fashion photography and I don’t want it to go to waste. Working for a magazine is what I envision myself doing after college. I want to be one of those lucky people whose profession is also their passion.”

A TYPICAL DAY My submission is about my friend’s mother. Her name is Jan Horner, and she runs a babysitting service out of her home while having five children of her own. Many of her children have special needs at various levels, and Jan has made it a priority to tend to each of their individual needs. Her lifestyle inspired her to start a support group for parents in similar situations called H.E.L.P, which stands for Helping, Encouraging and Listening to Parents with special needs children. The group provides aid for parents struggling to educate, discipline or even love their children. A regular meeting opens with prayer and moves onto a guest speaker and open discussion. I have witnessed the kind of pressure Jan is under, from the never-ending pile of laundry to the stress of paying the bills. However, her kind, positive spirit separates her from the rest. I visited Jan at her home to document a ‘typical day’ while she is babysitting.

FEBRUARY 2010 ME: IN FOCUS 37

Love Your Pet Day

National Organ Donor Day

Chinese New Year

National Condom Awareness Day

Superbowl XLIV

Martyrs' Benefit for Haiti Jazz Concert 8pm/$10

15 Susan B. Anthony’s Birthday

FEBRUARY 2010

www.meinfocusmag.com

STYLE ME. ENTERTAIN ME. INFORM ME. INDULGE ME. INSPIRE ME. EMPOWER ME.™

National Friendship Month

Mardi Gras

Groundhog Day

Black History Month

Random Acts of Kindness Day

American Heart Month

Rosa Park’s Birthday

Me: IN FOCUS Dinner at Lao Szechwan in Chinatown 7pm/$20

National Wear Red Day for Heart Health Awareness

27 Purim

Hubbard Street Dance at Art Institute of Chicago

BUZZ BUZZ

FILM

From our friends at:

Saoirse Ronan

Stanley Tucci

Mark Wahlberg

Rachel Weisz

Susan Sarandon

THE LOVELY BONES BY BRIANNA CALKIN

aaaa Director Peter Jackson has transformed Alice Sebold’s novel, The Lovely Bones, into an emotionally intense film about the life and afterlife of Susie Salmon. Susie (Saoirse Ronan) was murdered at the lively young age of 14. She was crossing the cornfield to her Pennsylvania home after school when her awkwardly friendly, yet creepy neighbor Mr. Harvey (Stanley Tucci) lured her into an underground, playhouse-like shack. Susie narrates most of the film as we see her family struggle over their tragic loss. While her family is in turmoil, Susie is stuck in the ‘in between’, a fantasy-like place before reaching heaven. Susie’s ‘in between’ is not all butterflies and rainbows. It is a place where she is having an inner battle with letting go versus her strong desire for revenge on her murderer. She can often see and hear her family, friends and murderer. Susie’s parents, Jack (Mark Wahlberg) and Abigail (Rachel Weisz), find it hard to reconnect with one another because they are both healing in different ways after losing Susie. Jack’s obsession with solving Susie’s murder pushes Abigail away and in return brings Abigail’s mother, crazy Grandma Lynn

(Susan Sarandon), to help care for the two other children. The film meshes Susie’s vengeance for her murderer with her father’s intent to solve the mystery, her sister’s suspicions of the creepily chilling neighbor and Mr. Harvey’s skewed behaviors. The Lovely Bones is one of the most emotionally driven films I have seen in a long time. Some of the scenes were so intense that you could tell everyone’s hearts were racing with anticipation. The suspense was thrilling and is definitely key to the success of the film. Additionally, the filming of The Lovely Bones was creatively captivating. It illustrated the drastic ranges in emotion perfectly. One scene would be a horrible struggle while the next would be Susie’s fairytale-like world. The filming was very appealing and kept the audience entertained and curious. Additionally, the realistic features of the fantasy world were outstanding including images of supersized glass bottles crashing into the shore, a pug driven sleigh and larger than life ice sculptures. Saoirse Ronan played a beautifully curious Susie Salmon. She exemplified energy and hope that there is a fairytale life after death.

Likewise, Susan Sarandon played an excellent kooky grandmother. Her constant drinking and smoking while taking care of the household chores were hilariously entertaining. I really enjoyed this film. It was very heartbreaking, yet intriguing. I have not read the novel but I will definitely add it to my list. I feel like most films never live up to the expectations of the book so I’m interested to see if the book will live up to my expectations after seeing the movie first. This film is definitely geared more toward women and I would strongly recommend adhering to the PG-13 rating; at times it was quite frightening and I’m sure it would be scarier for someone younger.

IN THEATRES NOW

MUSIC

BLOGS WE LOVE

SITES SITES

http://materialgirlsblog.com/chicago

http://secondcitystyle.typepad.com

TONI’S BACK

http://www.chicagonow.com/blogs/frugalista

http://strollwithoutshoes.com

Pop diva Toni Braxton is back on the scene. The album brings back the old Toni that we’ve all missed: powerful pipes and soulful ballads. Her latest album Pulse is released this month.

FEBRUARY 2010 ME: IN FOCUS 39

studios

:IN FOCUS

Photographer: Bian Li www.meinfocusstudios.com