Chicago Woman December 2016 Issue

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

WOMAN chicago-woman.com INTERVIEW:

DESIREE VARGAS WRIGLEY

FOOD TRENDS FOR 2017

HOLIDAY GUIDE

+

WISHLIST ENTERTAINING EVENTS AND MORE!

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STYLEMAKERS

What to Wear this Holiday Season

Love Your Career Again

THE POWER IN

PHILANTHROPY

K. Sujata leading Chicago Foundation for Women

PLUS: 9 OTHER EXCEPTIONAL WOMEN PAYING IT FORWARD

Come take a closer look!

RSVP for our Open House!

Come see our state-of-the-art five-story, 75,000 square-foot campus located in the heart of Chicago and meet our highly-trained team of teachers and staff at British International School of Chicago, Lincoln Park.

Here, your family will be able to learn about our STEAM collaboration with MIT, participate in a variety of activities, and learn how we can help your child invent the future.

January 8, 2017 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.

814 W. Eastman St. admissions@bischicagolp.org 773-907-5000 www.bischicagolp.org/open-houses

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our thoughts

EVERYDAY ACTS OF FEMINISM

WOMAN chicago-woman.com

DECEMBER 2016/ JANUARY 2017

W

“The worst thing that we can do as women is not stand up for each other, and this is something we can practice every day, no matter where we are and what we do— women sticking up for other women, choosing to protect and celebrate each other instead of competing or criticizing one another.”* AMAL CLOONEY My commitment is to make sure that this magazine is here for you, for our children—especially our daughters—and for our city.

So, I ask you this: What is your everyday act of feminism?

Back to the issue at hand—our 9th print edition features several exceptional women who share their philanthropic passions and commitments. These women, including K. Sujata, CEO of Chicago Foundation for Women, are living their purpose by giving back to our communities and causes that enrich lives.

We hope you find their stories as inspiring as we have.

On behalf of the Chicago Woman team, I want to wish you the best of the holiday season and the new year. Our holiday section— with tips on style, events, and entertaining—is sure to put you in the spirit of the season!

Kendra Chaplin Publisher + Founder kendra@chicago-woman.com

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chicago woman

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

Kendra Chaplin kendra@chicago-woman.com

Editorial Director Jennifer Smith Tapp jennifer@chicago-woman.com

ith the election now behind us, the subsequent weeks of high emotion, and the new year before us, I have reflected on what it means to be a voice for women, especially Chicago women. Our mission to empower and inspire women is more important than ever. I recently read an article in which Amal Clooney expressed her thoughts, and they rang loud and clear with me. She conveyed the need for women to commit to “everyday acts of feminism:”

Publisher + Founder

Managing Editor Mahjabeen Syed mahjabeen@chicago-woman.com

Contributing Style Editors Brandon Frein

Arlene Matthews

style@chicago-woman.com

Design Director Travis Rothe travis@chicago-woman.com

Digital Manager Molly Koeneman molly@chicago-woman.com

Social Media Manager Alia Rajput alia@chicago-woman.com

Account Executives Amy Lapine amy@chicago-woman.com

Kimmy Steinback kimmy@chicago-woman.com

Event Manager Bryant Von Woodson III bryant@chicago-woman.com

Interns Michele Behrens michelle@chicago-woman.com

Morgan Forst morgan@chicago-woman.com

Bailee Penski bailee@chicago-woman.com

Marygrace Schumann marygrace@chicago-woman.com

Contributing Writers Gemma Allen Kate Barrata Laurie Barry Theresa Cantafio Emilia DiMenco Annette Findling Bela Gandhi Kathleen Henson Consuelo Martinez-Quattrocchi Andrea Metcalf Katie Schuppler ON THE COVER: K. Sujata, shot on location at the Chicago Foundation for Women

by Kris Kasperek.

ADVERTISING sales@chicago-woman.com PR + EDITORIAL SUBMISSIONS chicago-woman.com/editorial-submissions SOCIAL LIFE SUBMISSIONS chicago-woman.com/social-life EVENT POSTINGS chicago-woman.com/events/submit.html Copyright 2016 FW Publishing, LLC. All rights reserved.

Chicago Woman is published by FW Publishing, LLC. Materials may not be reproduced in whole or in part without written permission. The opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of Chicago Woman.

*SOURCE: The Hollywood Reporter

www.chicago-woman.com

WORLD

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from the board

THE FUTURE IS FEMALE

by Dorri McWhorter, CEO of YWCA Metropolitan Chicago Last month, individuals came out to vote and in doing so made a statement about the issues that are important to them. While many of you may be disappointed with the outcome, and there is a great deal of uncertainty ahead, I take comfort in knowing that we have a great opportunity to stand together for racial justice and the advancement of women.

We are on the brink of major change in the city of Chicago. You can hear it in the streets. You can see it on your television screens. You can certainly read about it in this magazine. Change is coming and women are at the forefront of this change.

It is a privilege to be a member of the Chicago Woman Board. This collective comprise of the influencers and change-agents in Chicago; they are the women behind the scenes advancing our city. I am merely one member, but together we are a force to be reckoned with.

While leading the YWCA, I have seen firsthand what change and evolution can do for an organization and those we serve. Together with my team, we have transformed YWCA Chicago from a 140 year-old social service agency to a 21st century social enterprise. A healthy dose of innovative and creative out-of-the-box thinking was necessary to embark on this journey. This ingenuity has paid off in dividends. We have served our 1000th member at our Innovation Technology Institutes in the past year. We are now serving more than 300,000 clients across services in the Chicagoland area. We are taking women from surviving to thriving at a rate of which hasn’t been seen before. And the YWCA believes in a world where collaborative enterprise can create a marketplace that benefits everyone.

Chicago Woman shares this perspective. We know that by bringing together the best our city has to offer we can uplift our readers, our communities, and make Chicago the best place in the world for women and families.

Together, and with the right investments, we will bring about the positive change Chicago needs. We see mothers standing hand-in-hand declaring that there needs to be an end to the violence. We see women entrepreneurs breaking records for start-up successes. We see women breaking all kinds of glass ceilings. There is no denying that the Future Is Female. cw

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chicago woman

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

EXECUTIVE EDITORIAL BOARD Laurel Bellows Principal, Bellows Law Group, and Past President, American Bar Association Kate Bensen CEO, The Chicago Network Terri Brax CEO, Women Tech Founders, and CEO, TeacherCare Emilia DiMenco CEO, Women’s Business Development Center Ana Dutra CEO, Executives’ Club of Chicago Luisa Echevarria Director, Community Relations, Univision Kathleen Henson CEO, Henson Consulting Kathy Herbert Business Consultant and Investor Erica Kane General Manager, Reserve Dorri McWhorter CEO, YWCA of Metropolitan Chicago Amanda Signorelli CEO, Techweek Julie Smolyansky CEO, Lifeway Foods Dr. Lauren Streicher Associate Clinical Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology and Medical Director Northwestern Center for Sexual Health and Menopause

How do I move beyond the election?

It’s been a long, divisive election season. And now that the people have spoken, what do the results mean for your financial future?

Your UBS Financial Advisor is able to look beyond current events and see the bigger picture, not only in terms of the long-term market forces at work, but also through understanding how all the moving pieces of your financial life work together. It all starts with a conversation and the financial plan you create together.

For some of life’s questions, you’re not alone.

Together we can find an answer.

Laurie P. Barry, CFP® Senior Vice President - Wealth Management Wealth Advisor 312-525-439 laurie.barry@ubs.com Everly Champion Senior Wealth Strategy Associate 312-525-4399 everly.champion@ubs.com Emily Duerr Registered Client Service Associate 312-525-4395 emily.j.duerr@ubs.com The Barry Wealth Consulting Group UBS Financial Services Inc. One North Wacker Drive ste 2600 Chicago, IL 60606-2807 312-525-4393 800-621-0684

ubs.com/team/barrywealthcg As a firm providing wealth management services to clients, we offer both investment advisory and brokerage services. These services are separate and distinct, differ in material ways and are governed by different laws and separate contracts. For more information on the distinctions between our brokerage and investment advisory services, please speak with your Financial Advisor or visit our website at ubs.com/workingwithus.

Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP®, Certified Financial PlannerTM and federally registered CFP (with flame design) in the U.S., which it awards to individuals who successfully complete CFP Board’s initial and ongoing certification requirements.

2016/JANUARY 2017 chicago woman 7 ©UBS 2016. All rights reserved. UBS Financial Services Inc. is a subsidiary of UBS AG.DECEMBER Member FINRA/SIPC. D-UBS-46EEE89D

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DECEMBER 2016/ JANUARY 2017

ON THE COVER

IN EVERY ISSUE

K. Sujata is leading the Chicago Foundation for Women and the 100% Project.

OUR THOUGHTS 4

30 NEW YEAR

6 FROM THE BOARD

HEALTH KICK

The Future Is Female Dorri McWhorter

32 STUCK AT WORK? Lisa Frank 37 POWER OF

PHILANTHROPY 9 women share their passion for giving back

42 TECH CONVERSATIONS: DESIREE

VARGAS WRIGLEY

! r e e h c y a d holi 47 CALENDAR 48 FINDING LOVE

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PAGE 54

STYLEMAKERS

ON WHAT TO WEAR THIS SEASON

50 HIGH-RISE HOLIDAYS Coffee table entertaining

52 WISH LIST Season’s best just for you

11

CALENDAR

12

CULTURE WATCH

14

NEED TO KNOW

17

BEAUTY BEAT

18 W HAT’S IN HER BAG? Laura Faith Korpal, Dine|Amic Group

22

MOVERS + SHAKERS

THE MENTOR 24

Kathleen Henson

INSPIRING WOMEN 26 Emilia DiMenco

BUSINESS OF LIFE 38 Laurie Barry MEN WE LOVE 44

Ashley Wheater, Creative Director, Joffrey Ballet

SOCIAL LIFE 64 CLOSING THOUGHTS 66 Don’t Tell Me to Smile Valerie Groth

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chicago woman

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

Surprise and delight in every bite!

Irresistibly, deliciously crunchy chips made from real pizza dough!

DISCOVER MORE DELICIOUS AT WWW.HELLODELICIOUS.COM DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

chicago woman

9

Purchase with Purpose

TM

YShop [why shop]: An online store offering a curated selection of goods and services with a portion of every purchase benefitting YWCA Metropolitan Chicago.

Find holiday gifts from Akira, Accessory Mercado, Gail’s Brownies, Pierce Footwear, Thrive Market, t+j designs and more!

Join us on November 17th from 2-4pm for a YShop Pop Up at the Hyatt Regency Chicago!

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chicago woman

www.yshop.org

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

calendar DECEMBER 7, 2016

Adults Night Out

Lincoln Park Zoo isn’t just for kids! Join a night of fun just for grown-ups. Cash bars and live entertainment will be located throughout the zoo. Must be 18 or older to enter after zoo hours. Tickets are $15. lpzoo.com

6:30 p.m., Lincoln Park Zoo, 2001 North Clark Street

DECEMBER 14, 2016

Progressive Networking Luncheon Be part of The Professional Women’s Club of Chicago’s mostattended event of the year. Make valuable professional connections to carry your success through 2017. pwcc.org

JANUARY 11, 2017

Maria Pinto Luncheon The famed fashion designer and owner of M2057 will speak about her entrepreneurial experiences in a talk entitled Evolution: The Business and How It Evolved. pwcc.org

11:30 a.m. — 1:30 p.m., Union League Club of Chicago, 65 West Jackson Boulevard

JANUARY 14, 2017

Go-Woman 2017 Chicago Woman magazine hosts its first annual health and wellness event to usher in a healthful and prosperous new year with inspiring speakers, fitness classes, and healthy snacks and products. Tickets start at $25. chicago-woman.com/go

11:30 a.m. — 1:30 p.m., Union League Club of Chicago, 65 West Jackson Boulevard

JANUARY 16, 2017 DECEMBER 19, 2016

MLK Day Breakfast

Culinary Fight Club Culinary Fight Club brings the passion of a high-energy kitchen and the thrill of a timed competition in partnership with Fight2Feed.

Contestants have 60 minutes to create a dish that represents their take on our monthly theme. culinaryfightclub.com

6:00 p.m., Bottled Blonde Chicago, 504 North Wells Street

This annual gathering honors the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. Hip hop activist Rosa Clemente will serve as the keynote speaker. Buffet breakfast will be provided. Event is free.

events.depaul.edu 10:00 a.m. — 12:00 p.m., DePaul Student Center, 2250 North Sheffield Avenue

Enjoy a Taste of

Tuscany This Holiday Season

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

chicago woman

www.villagraziellaorganic.com

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CULTURE WATCH

IN WAR & PEACE: HARMONY THROUGH MUSIC December 9, 2016 Joyce DiDonato explores the dichotomy of discord and harmony in times of war through her powerful interpretation of Baroque arias. During the Baroque era, such vocal masters as Monteverdi, Purcell, Handel, Leo, Jommelli, and others expressed these striking contrasts in music of great power. Now audiences can experience DiDonato’s interpretation.

In War & Peace: Harmony Through Music will feature accompaniment

by Il Pomo d’Oro. For more information, visit harristheaterchicago.org.

MARIA PINTO

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TATTOO

PROVOKE

Through January 8, 2017

Through April 30, 2017

Opens January 28, 2017

Pinto, a celebrated Chicago fashion designer, is featured in this exhibit displaying works from couture to her high-tech fabric collections.

Admission is free.

The art of marking skin with ink is over 5,000 years old. This exhibit explores the cultures and practices of tattoos featuring more than 170 objects. General admission is $38.

This Art Institute of Chicago exhibition is the first of its kind to represent protest and performance through photography in postwar Japan from 1960 to 1975.

For more information, visit cityofchicago.org

For more information, visit fieldmuseum.org

For more information, visit artic.edu

chicago woman

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

check it out Be Financially Fearless.

MASTER YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH MONEY.

We Are a Community of Women who are gaining confidence in the matters of money and investing. We are taking control of our financial future by attending learning events and taking advantage of support resources designed especially for women.

RISING TO THE OCCASION In the wake of the recent election, Genevieve Thiers, founder of SitterCity was inspired to take action. Together with Ellie Bahrmeisel and Dan Ratner, they created the RISE Movement meant to heal the divide that caused this past election and give new life to a struggling Democratic party.

This is what the movement stands for:

RETAKE: We work to give ALL Americans—including

women, minorities, and the underrepresented—a voice. We will find and support candidates in packs for every national opening for office, amplifying each other, with funding and shared learnings, until that voice is retaken.

INNOVATE: We believe in tech innovation, but with a human-first tech approach. If jobs are going to be affected by disruption, it is the responsibility of both the government and also companies to take a human-first approach to that disruption, and to provide retraining and new jobs.

Same with outsourcing.

SHELTER: America has women, minorities, immigrants, and those with special needs and those parties are particularly scared under the new administration. Our planet is also in grave danger, with climate change being tossed to the side under the current administration. We must protect both the planet and those at risk, at every level.

EVOLVE: Several aspects of our political process, including the electoral college and voting districts, need evolution.

We believe the most popular candidate in each election should win.

FOR UPCOMING EVENTS, VISIT

PURSESTRINGS.CO 14

Learn more at www.riseparty.org.

cw

THE BROAD CAST Mika Stambaugh (right), formerly with city’s Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection, joined forces with Becky Carroll to kick off “The Broad Cast,” a podcast featuring professional women talking about public affairs, media and business.

Stay tuned for more at cstrategiesllc.com.

WOMEN’S MARCH ON WASHINGTON

CUPCAKES & COCKTAILS

If you are anything like us, cupcakes and an after-work cocktail are near the top of the list of our favorite things.

Combine the two and you really have our attention.

Founded by Brittney McCoy, Cupcakes & Cocktails is a Chicago-based luxury bakery that specializes in spiked cupcakes available for events. For those who prefer a more fun, hands-on experience, there are also private cupcake and cake decorating classes available.

Learn more at cupcakesandcocktailschi.com.

On January 21, 2017 women will unite at the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, DC for the Women’s March on Washington. The ogranizers of the event have a mission to “send a bold message to our new administration on their first day in office, and to the world that women’s rights are human rights. We stand together, recognizing that defending the most marginalized among us is defending all of us.”

There are several groups organizing transportation to Washington from Chicago. To learn more about the march, visit the official Facebook page by searching “Women’s March on Washington-Illinois”.

Divorce Need Not Be

Destructive the collaborative approach to divorce allows spouses to work with specially trained professionals in a non-destructive manner to reach an agreement tailored to the priorities of the family. our mission is to help couples resolve their issues through a collaborative Process, rather than fighting in court.

Have insights and ideas to share?

Let us know! editor@chicago-woman.com

CoNNeCt ANd LeArN More CollabLawIL.org

/CollabLawIL

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

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DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

BEAUTY BEAT A collection of the best salons, spas, and services in the city.

by Michele Behrens

Allyu Spa offers an array of treatments for not only physically, but internally. Offering from spa body treatments, reflexology, manicures and pedicures, to Chakra balancing. Does the harsh winter air bother your sensitive skin?

ALLYU SPA 600 W. CHICAGO AVENUE Their Soothing Rosehip facial treatment is best for sensitive skin, including people with rosacea.

Chuan Spa, located in The Langham hotel, has it’s treatments based on traditional Chinese medicine, striving to get clients to achieve mind-body balance. To warm up in the cold season, one of CHUAN SPA Chuan’s signature offers is 330 N. WABASH AVENUE Chuan Serenity Shen, which consists of a stone therapy massage, skin renewing facial, and a refreshing foot treatment. Chuan’s Spa guarantees skin nourishment, soothing of the soul, and calming of the mind.

Azul Holistic Spa uses thousand year old techniques from India to make sure of body balance with nature’s rhythm. They call their medicine, Ayurveda, which promotes good health and fight disease. Azul AZUL HOLISTIC SPA spa wants the client to have an Ayurveda experience 118 N. CLINTON STREET by immersing you through healing ritual and music, essential oils, herbs and teas. Something new to try for the stressful gift giving season is the Shirodhara Therapy (Third-Eye Therapy). This particular session purifies the mind, and expands awareness. The client first gets a warm oil scalp massage. Then, warm herbal oil is poured on the forehead, the sixth chakra, to invigorate the sense and mind.

cw

Sine Qua Non is a community of artists working together to create the perfect hair salon experience.

From vibrant, flattering color to sculpted wearable haircuts, we deliver exceptional individualized looks to each guest.

www.sinequanonsalons.com West Town 773-252-4700 Andersonville 773-649-0101

Lincoln Park 773-871-2280 Lakeview 773-404-8789

Everyday glamour for the busy & beautiful Call 312.929.3078 or visit www.andblowdry.com for appointments.

1315 South Michigan Avenue DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

chicago woman

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G A B R E H IN

Laura Faith Korpal is partner and brand director for Dine|Amic Group—the comapny behind such restaurants as Siena Tavern, Bar Siena and Public House. Being in the hospitality industry, means you are always on the go and moving from kitchen to event to the boardroom.

Take a peak to see what she always has on hand.

LOUIS VUITTON BUSINESS CARD HOLDER A very cute gift from my bosses when I was promoted to a partner, It’s a reminder to always carry business cards on me and network everywhere I go. $250, us.louisvuitton.com L’OCCITANE SHEA BUTTER HAND CREAM A must-have for dry winter skin. $12, usa.loccitane.com SMITH’S MINTED ROSE LIP BALM The perfect amount of tint for a natural daytime look and stays on for hours. And tastes good! $7, sephora.com EMERGEN-C For an extra immune system boost! $4.49, target.com

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DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

DERMOLOGICA SKIN HYDRATING BOOSTER Just a small dab of this in the middle of the day keeps my face feeling soft and hydrated all day.

It’s incredible in the dry Chicago winters. $56, nordstrom.com YSL MON PARIS ROLLERBALL I love how rollerball fragrances made a debut recently! It’s a great way to try out new scents without committing to a full bottle.

I swap these out every couple months and always have one in my purse to spritz after work when heading to an event or dinner. $29, ulta.com

BOBBI BROWN MINI SHIMMER BRICK I have been using these shimmer bricks for years on my cheeks as an added glow to my blush and always get compliments. I love the compact version because it fits in my makeup bag and I can’t keep the fullsize in one piece. Ever. $46, bobbibrowncosmetics.com ORIBE DRY TEXTURIZING SPRAY A quick hair refresh is much needed when heading to the restaurants or off-site catering events after work. Keeps my hair looking fresh and waves (when done) tousled. $22, beautylish.com

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

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WE KNOW YOUR SECRET NOT ABOUT THE CUPCAKE. GO AHEAD INDULGE, HONEY! IT’S ABOUT THE MAGAZINE YOU ARE READING! YOU LIKE PRINT, YOU ALWAYS HAVE, YOU ALWAYS WILL. SUBSCRIBE. ONLY $3.99 PER ISSUE.

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CHICAGO-WOMAN/ILOVEPRINT chicago woman

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

SPONSORED CONTENT

A HOW-TO FOR PHILANTHROPIC GIVING

By Annette Findling, CFP® Founder of Stonebridge Wealth Advisors, LLC

Donating your time to a charity about which you are passionate is a wonderful and fulfilling activity that can change your life. Financial donations, however, are the lifeblood of charities. They are also a terrific addition to your own financial plan as they will qualify you for tax deductions that will reduce your liability come April 15.

THINKING ABOUT GIVING? START HERE: Consider what kind of charity you are most interested in donating money to and then do your research. You want to make sure that your charity is a tax-exempt 501c3.

Also, give your money to financially responsible charities.

These charities will focus your cash on their cause, not their internal fundraising and administration fees. A 35%/65% administration to charity ratio (or better!) is usually an acceptable guideline.

Then, consider what “tax year” you want your charitable donation to count towards. You will want to make the donation and receive a receipt within the appropriate calendar year. You can donate via your credit card, (a great way to earn miles!)

Check with your employer since some employers will match donations. It’s nice to double your contribution and make a greater impact.

You can give cash, but also consider giving securities. You can receive a tax deduction on the full market value of a

donation -- real estate or stocks. And income tax will be waived all together if the asset is sold by the charity. Certain rules apply based on the asset. Please review your ideas with your tax professional.

Finally, you can consider a Donor Advised Fund. That is a fund that has been developed to collect donations and allocate them to a list of charities that work under their umbrella.

You can gift cash or securities and the Fund will allocate your donations accordingly.

As we head into the season of giving, you will have fun knowing how much you helped both the charity AND your own bottom line, too!

The opinions voiced in this material are for general information only and are not intended to provide specific advice or recommendations for any individual, nor intended to be a substitute for specific individualized tax advice. We suggest that you discuss your specific tax issues with a qualified tax advisor.

Securities offered through LPL Financial, Member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advice offered through HighPoint Advisor Group, a registered investment advisor. HighPoint Advisor Group and Stonebridge Wealth Advisors are separate entities from LPL Financial.

Be sure to visit RichWomenRock.com for more great articles and insights from Annette Findling.

JUNE 2016

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s r e k a h s + movers

by Kate Baratta

DIANE LATIKER FOUNDER KIDS OFF THE BLOCK

WHY DID YOU START KIDS OFF THE BLOCK? I believed I could make a differ-

ence. I hoped to create a place where youth from all over the city of Chicago could find a “safe space” with resources and opportunities in one place.

Starting with 10 kids, Latiker founded the award-winning and internationally recognized organization Kids Off The Block in 2003. KOB now effects thousands of lives through love, compassion, nurturing, and respect, earning national recognition for its enrichment, empowerment and personal development, of youth.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT YOUR WORK? I love when

the youth I serve begin to believe in themselves. They start to hope and dream again.

YOU WERE NAMED A “WOMAN OF WORTH” HONOREE BY L’OREAL PARIS USA—ONE OF ONLY 10 WOMEN IN THE COUNTRY. THIS COMES WITH A $10,000 GRANT. WHAT DO YOU PLAN TO DO WITH IT? I want to purchase and rehab the building that houses KOB headquarters. We hope to expand classrooms and mentor and add a music production space and a technology center. This will triple the number of students we can serve there.

WHAT IMPACT DOES KOB HAVE ON THE COMMUNITY?

I’ve had kids tell me: “Ms. Diane, if your door wasn’t open, I would probably be dead or in jail.” We give them hope for a tomorrow filled with opportunity. cw .

JENNIFER BAYON

VICE PRESIDENT, INTERNATIONAL SALES, PARIS PRESENTS INC. Jennifer leads Paris Presents Inc.’s business development in more than 60 countries outside the US—and during her tenure, she has helped grow their international business six-fold. She oversees the company’s UK subsidiary and a network of distributors to develop leading brands in global food, drug, mass, and perfumery retailers.

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DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

IS THIS YOUR DREAM JOB? Without a doubt. My

work combines my two passions: beauty and international business. I love the high-growth environment and am fortunate to work with an incredibly talented team that’s expanded our presence around the world.

WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT THE BEAUTY INDUSTRY?

They’re more than just products. They’re essentials that allow me to exude more confidence and put a better attitude out into the world. It’s a dream for me to be able to work in an industry that gives such power and confidence to millions of women.

WHAT INSPIRES YOU? I’m inspired most by

opportunities to learn, whether it’s about new people, new languages, or new business concepts.

WHAT IS THE BEST ADVICE YOU’VE EVER RECEIVED?

Embrace your strengths and be authentic.

Remember to listen—you never know where a new idea is going to come from—and be humble. The advice I give to others: Know your way around the numbers. cw

KELLY HARRINGTON NICHOLL CMO, INTERSECT ILLINOIS

After expanding her marketing prowess in Indiana at the Indiana Economic Development Corporation, Kelly made the transition to Illinois, landing at Intersect Illinois. She works to bring more jobs and prosperity to the future of our great state.

WHY ILLINOIS? Illinois

is a fantastic place to live, work, and grow a family. I want to remind people of the terrific things this state has to offer.

WHAT DO YOU FIND MOST COMPELLING ABOUT YOUR WORK? Learning about new industries,

technology, and business. When we work with a company looking to expand or a prospect we’re recruiting to the state, we need to learn as much as possible about their business. It’s fascinating for me to constantly be exposed to new things.

Save $20 On Your First Airbrush Tan! Look great for all of your holiday parties!

1-877-ORTANIC | Ortanic.com

WHY DO YOU DO WHAT YOU DO? Making a

positive impact in someone’s life—it’s why I love my job. Recruiting and bringing more good paying jobs to Illinois can literally change an individual’s or a family’s life.

It’s what motivates me every morning on my way to work.

WHAT FULFILLS YOU? New challenges of all kinds. Everything from helping family and friends figure out how to address personal or professional challenges to mentoring a new team member to, in this job, marketing a state with its own set of attributes and challenges. cw

Kate Baratta is a Chicago writer and blogger.

Learn more at peoplewithpanache.com.

Know an amazing Chicago Woman? Let us know! editor@chicago-woman.com

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

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R THE MENTO

GIVE BACK AND GIVE BACK OFTEN

by Kathleen Henson Have you ever heard the phrase “If you want to get something done, ask a busy person?” Some people I’ve encountered have told me they don’t have time or know how to go about getting involved with a charity in a meaningful way. I have found that my life has been greatly enriched by not only being busy in my work and family life but also by the work I’ve done through acts of service.

As a 21 year-old kid right out of Purdue, I learned what “pro bono” actually meant when I managed the publicity for the Walter Payton Foundation and its annual golf outing for several years. While I was donating my time on behalf of the PR firm where I worked, I experienced the awesome privilege and joy of working with the Chicago Bears great in supporting underserved students. In my next job, as a new Communications Manager at Chicago Title Insurance Company, I also led the Bowl-a-Thon for United Way, which spurred my interest to lead their Women’s Leadership Council 20 years later and brought me to now serving as a strategic advisor and sitting on the Chicago Cabinet with other CEOs. My love of the arts and culture within this great city prompted me to get involved with the Joffrey Women’s Board, which has helped me develop deep and meaningful relationships with other women I may never have met otherwise. Each experience

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Put more kindness and good in the world. Leave your mark and “do good.” has been worthwhile and taught me a lot.

Our agency’s account work also has given me the opportunity to support so many great causes and shaped my understanding of the plights of others. It has given me empathy and compassion for individuals who are a lot like me but going through a trial or difficulty in their life. I subscribe to the belief that we’re only one situation or challenge away from being just like our neighbor in need.

With five kids and a business that I lead, people always ask me how I can possibly have time to support a number of great causes, work, and still be effective at anything. I always answer that the positivity and joy I get out of serving others makes it all worthwhile. I actually enjoy my life being crammed full of events and activities—many that involve giving back to Chicago and the people here. It’s incredible to watch what the work of many hands can do to change a lot of lives for the better.

So how do you get involved, you ask? You pay attention to what your passions are and find a cause

that supports them. Ask your kids or your friends or family members for suggestions. It’s not just about giving a check or going to a gala or sitting on a board. It is about finding a way to make a tangible impact.

In this often negative landscape we live and work in, don’t waste a chance to serve others. Put more kindness and good in the world.

Leave your mark and “do good.”

Trust me, you won’t regret it. cw

Kathleen Henson is the proud mother of five incredible kids, ages 7-17 and the founder and CEO of Henson Consulting, an award-winning PR and marketing firm based in Chicago that employs more than 40 women and two brave men. Her company has been recognized by Entrepreneur Magazine for its unique corporate culture rooted in kindness, and the firm was recently named 2016 national Small PR Firm of the Year by PRNews. Follow her at @KathleenHenson on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

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HAVE A FINANCIALLY HAPPY NEW YEAR

by Emilia DiMenco Whether you’re starting a business or looking to grow, you must have a handle on your company’s finances to succeed. You need to know your profit margins, fixed and variable costs, seasonality in your cash flows, employee benefit trends and costs, and other risk factors that can create unexpected costs.

To improve your company’s financial health in 2017, consider these five tips for helping you reach your goal.

BE AWARE OF YOUR DAY-TO-DAY FINANCIAL SITUATION. If you don’t know on any given day your profit margins on new and existing customers and the cash flow from these customers, your business could be in danger of failing rather quickly. You need to create and use financial statements and forecasting tools. For help, turn to community resources such as the WBDC.

SPEED UP CASH FLOW. Managing your cash flow is critical, not only for daily operations but to qualify for financing. Are you collecting from your customers quickly enough? Are you paying your suppliers faster than you need to? A cash flow analysis, combined with an effective cash flow system, will help you manage funds to cover operational costs and identify potential problems.

LIMINATE UNNEEDED E EXPENSES. Some expenses can be delayed or postponed altogether.

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Know Your End Game and Have a Plan to Reach That Destination.

Do you need your own office, or would it make more sense to begin by operating from your home or a co-working space? Do you really need that splashy, costly marketing campaign, or can you accomplish the same results more inexpensively?

Be ruthless in your assessment of what to eliminate.

CONSIDER A SMALL BUSINESS LOAN. If you’re serious about business growth, you’ll likely need financing to help with cash flow for additional salaries or new equipment.

If traditional lenders are not an option at this time, consider financing from a community-based organization, including the WBDC, until you qualify for a traditional bank loan. In the meantime, develop a relationship with a banker, improve your personal and business credit score, and update your business plan.

grow? As the old saying goes, “begin with the end in mind” but start planning for it now. Effective transitions can take 5-10 years depending on the size and complexity of your business.

The year 2017 can be a banner year for you and your company if you have the right mindset and financial knowledge, know your end game, and have a plan to reach that destination. Above all, know that financial acumen is a learning process. Keep asking yourself how you can continue to create value through your company and pat yourself on the back as you steadily make progress. cw

-

KNOW YOUR LONG-TERM VISION. Is your goal to maximize the value of your company so you can merge it, sell it, or pass it on to the next generation? Do you want to operate the company yourself for the rest of your career? Is your vision to stay relatively small or

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

Emilia DiMenco is president and CEO of the Women’s Business Development Center, an organization that provides services to prospective, emerging, and established business owners, including workshops, business counseling, and annual events.

For more information, visit wbdc.org.

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YEAR-END FINANCIAL PLANNING Laurie Barry Yes, it’s already that time of year again—year-end. How did it get here so fast? So NOW on top of baking cookies, frequenting many holiday parties, and your holiday shopping list—you should definitely consider yet another thing to do: Your Year-end Financial Checklist. As we approach the end of 2016, it’s a good time to take stock of the past year and plan for the future. On the one hand, the economy seems to be improving—the U.S. stock market is at or near an all-time high, unemployment is low, and consumers are spending money.

On the other hand, we are in year seven of a sluggish economic recovery, we have just merged from an election year that featured the two most controversial candidates in recent history.

Investment in business is shrinking, worker productivity is down, and some Wall Street insiders believe stocks and bonds are overvalued.

However, as Benjamin Franklin said, there are two certainties in life—death and taxes. We are wellequipped to help you plan for the latter. Here are some year-end tax and estate planning strategies you should consider along with your tax advisor based on the UBS 2016 year-end planning guide, which is available upon request.

Net gains and losses. Examine your 2016 short-term gains and losses and determine your capital gains and loss carry forwards to ensure that you are aligning them to the greatest extent possible. You may be able to use up to $3,000 of net capital losses to offset ordinary income for 2016.

REVIEW DEDUCTIONS. Consider

with your advisor whether to accelerate deductions that may result in less tax payable this year or whether you might realize the greater benefit from deferring those deductions in future years when income tax rates could be higher. Coordinate the payment of the deductible expense to accommodate timing issues i.e. unreimbursed medical expenses and property taxes.

ANNUAL EXCLUSION GIFTS.

Consider making annual exclusion gifts on or before December 31 each year. The annual exclusion is $14,000 ($28,000 for married couples) in 2016; annual gifts up to this amount can be made to an unlimited number of individuals free from gift tax and without using any of the estate and gift tax exemption. Contributions made to 529 plans by December 31 can qualify for 2016 annual gift tax exclusion treatment. These can be “front loaded” be making 5 years’ worth of annual exclusion gifts to a 529 plan (i.e., in 2016, an individual could transfer $70,000—a married couple could contribute $140,000—to a 529 plan without generating gift tax or using any of the estate and gift tax exemption).

ESTABLISHING AND FUNDING IRAS FOR NEXT GENERATION.

A gift up to $5,500 can be made to a traditional or Roth IRA for children or grandchildren who are not funding their own, but have enough earned income to do so.

Contributions to IRAs for family members are taxable gifts and

should be coordinated with other gifting. While IRA contributions for the 2016 tax year may be made until April 15, 2017, the gift must be completed by December 31, 2016 in order to qualify for 2016 annual gift exclusion treatment.

CHARITABLE INCOME TAX DEDUCTIONS. Gifts must be

made by December 31, 2016 to obtain a tax charitable deduction.

Also, along with cash, consider giving certain types of appreciated property may provide an income tax deduction equal to fair market value of the property (subject to AGI limitations). The charity can then sell the property and pay NO capital gains because it’s a tax expert entity. Always speak with your tax professional before implementing these strategies.

The timing is right—so take a serious look at some of these year-end strategies before it’s too late and make it part of your ritual each year. And as always, the end of the year is a great time to review various aspects of your financial and estate planning strategies, including budgets for 2017, getting a free complimentary annual credit report, and updating your financial plan. cw Laurie Barry CFP®, Wealth Advisor Senior Vice President, Wealth Management, The Barry Wealth Consulting Group.

[Laurie Barry is a Financial Advisor with UBS Financial Services Inc. a subsidiary of UBS AG. Member FINRA/SIPC in Chicago, IL. Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards Inc. owns the certification marks CFP® and CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ in the U.S.The information contained in this article is not a solicitation to purchase or sell investments. Any information presented is general in nature and not intended to provide individually tailored investment advice. Investing involves risks and there is always the potential of losing money when you invest. The views expressed herein are those of the author and may not necessarily reflect the views of UBS Financial Services Inc. Neither UBS Financial Services Inc. nor its employees (including its Financial Advisors) provide tax or legal advice. You should consult with your legal counsel and/or your accountant or tax professional regarding the legal or tax implications of a particular suggestion, strategy or investment, including any estate planning strategies, before you invest or implement. In providing wealth management services to clients, we offer both investment advisory and brokerage services which are separate and distinct and differ in material ways. For information, including the different laws and contracts that govern, visit ubs.com/workingwithus.

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NEW YEAR HEALTH KICK How to get the max benefits from your workouts.

Many people work out on a regular basis but don’t feel like they are getting all the benefits, such as increased energy, better sleep, better weight maintenance, improved attitude and outlook, and even a better shape.

This year, make sure that changes.

Follow these simple tips and you’ll be sure to get more out of every workout in no time. by Andrea Metcalf

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Get a second opinion

Don’t just do cardio

If you have never had a personal trainer or strength coach, you may not be working out to your full potential. Hiring a personal trainer to review your current training program can help you maximize your workouts. He or she can make sure you use good form, or tweak a movement that you’re currently doing and make it more difficult. If you’re currently working with a personal trainer, seek a second opinion. Trainers can get used to seeing your body move and results can start to slow down.

Although the American Heart Association guidelines recommend 30 minutes of vigorous exercise daily to reduce the risk of heart disease, many people make the mistake of only doing cardio workouts. Running, walking, biking, and swimming are wonderful for the body. But including strength training in your workout routine is key. One Harvard study showed that men “who increased the amount of time spent in weight training by 20 minutes a day had less gain in their waistline (-0.67 cm)

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DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

compared with men who similarly increased the amount of time they spent on moderate-to-vigorous aerobic exercise (-0.33 cm), and yard work or stair climbing (-0.16 cm).” This means that adding strength training to your workouts can go a long way in fighting the aging process of muscle loss and increased waistlines and weight gain.

Fatigue with intervals High-intensity interval training (HIIT) or burst training is key to getting the most out of your workouts. If you’re still doing steady-state workouts or not

finishing out each set to fatigue, you’re leaving room for improvement. Including high-intensity work intervals with alternating periods of rest helps your body reach new levels of fitness. Tabata, HIIT, and boot-camp classes tend to offer this type of training, or you can do it on your own.

Focus on eight to 12 reps of each exercise followed by a controlled sprint set. For example, perform slow biceps curls followed by rope-cable curls for a timed set.

Give the Gift of Motivation This Season!

Fuel up before your workout Carb loading before a race is a common practice, but eating carbohydrates before your workout may help you push yourself a bit more during your workout to get to the next level of training and/or burn more calories. Oatmeal, potatoes, Greek yogurt, fruits, and vegetables are all great choices— the more your muscles are fueled, the longer you may be able to push yourself. The American Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics recommends eating before a workout versus fasting before one, and suggests choosing carbs over just protein. Protein is best consumed after a workout to help rebuild muscle tissue and enhance muscle recovery.

Drink water A simple glass of water before, during, and after your workout will help improve performance. Experts recommend drinking 15 to 20 ounces of water one to two hours before your workout and again 15 minutes before you begin. During your workout, drink 8 ounces of water for every 15 minutes of intense exercise. And follow up with more water after you have finished exercising.

Sleep in Sleep is the body’s time to rest and repair. Without adequate rest your body experiences changes in hormones that affect lean muscle mass and weight gain. This means that if you’re putting your exercise program in high gear but ignoring the amount of time you sleep at night, you won’t get the results you want. Sleeping six to eight hours per night is key to performance in work and exercise, mental acuity, and attitude. cw

As the year comes to a close and we get ready for a fresh start, there’s never been a better time to restart your routine or get into an entirely new one. Having a tough time by yourself? Enlist the help of a workout buddy! Check out our top 3 reasons to sweat with a partner: Motivational Support Having a workout buddy will help you push past limits you may have not surpassed otherwise! Having someone dedicated to helping you succeed will make all the difference.

Safety A sweat session spotter is a MUST when it comes to safety and injury prevention.

Commitment & Consistency When workouts become fun, forming good habits becomes easier. Plus, a workout buddy acts as a built-in accountability partner who will be relying on you to show up!

Check out blog.ffc.com for even more tips, workouts & recipes to make 2017 your best year yet!

ffc.com

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STUCK AT WORK? 5 Ways to Get Your Career Back on Track 32

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FRANKLY SPEAKING

As this year comes to a close, we look toward the New Year with a fresh start. Especially if you’re feeling stuck in your career, this an in ideal time to assess, evaluate and set new goals for the months ahead. Carve out time for yourself—and keep with it. Reflect. Make a plan. Put the balls in motion. And keep them moving until you find what you’re looking for. Here are some tried and true tips to get you moving forward and headed toward your next stop on your journey. By Lisa Frank

EMOTIONS ASIDE First things first, get out of your own head.

Things tend to be so much worse when we are highly emotional about them—and feeling stalled in a job you don’t like can certainly be emotional.

Get back to the facts with questions like: why did you initially choose to come to this current role/ company? Have you achieved those things? Your boss might be a nightmare, but what aspects of your job do you like?

Is there another role at your current company that would be a great new fit? What accomplishments have you had during your time here and how does this experience fit into your larger goals?

FIGURE OUT WHERE YOU’RE RUNNING

KNOCK ON YOUR NETWORK’S DOOR

Are you running away from something or towards something right now?

Often, when we are running away from something, we are so desperate to leave that we don’t take time to figure out where we really WANT to be. Make time to uncover passions, interests and goals about where you want to be in 5-10+ years. Refocus your energy on where you are going and the value that you will bring, rather than on the quickest way out.

This is key! Once you start your exploration process, reach out to your network and connect. I promise— people will help you if they can. Call your mentors. Find ways to meet other professionals and reconnect with those you haven’t seen in a while. Grab a cup of coffee or an after-work beverage, or meet up for lunch or even to watch a game. Catch up, tell them what you are looking to do, ask for their insights or ideas, and identify ways you can help each other. You will be amazed at the opportunities that will come from it.

But, you never know until you ask!

TAKE INVENTORY This is a big one. Get familiar with your skills, strengths, and successes.

Start out easy. Grab a sheet of paper and have a freestyle brainstorm session with yourself (remember— there are no rules in brainstorming!).

Once you start jotting stuff down, you’ll be surprised at how they start to flow. Keep the list handy—you’ll want to add to it over time. All of this information will eventually help you clarify your job search direction and will be helpful in networking, interviewing, and writing resumes and bios.

PHONE A FRIEND Or a relative, mentor, spouse— anyone that loves you but will be brutally honest with you at the same time. Someone who can commit to being “your person” during this process. Someone who will give you solid feedback, brainstorm with you, keep you accountable, prep you for interviews, attend networking events with you, and remind you how great you are when you need it most. cw

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THE POWER IN

PHILANTHROPY K. Sujata leading Chicago Foundation for Women

In light of current events, there is no better time to assess the current state of women and women’s issues in Chicago than right now. When one thinks of women and organizations that have been crucial in the fight for equal pay and gender equality, and major advocates for the overall rights of women and girls in the city, K. Sujata unequivocally comes to mind.

by Mahjabeen Syed photo by Kris Kasperek

PHOTO CREDIT: KRIS KASPEREK

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S

ince 2011, Sujata has made many strides as the president and CEO of grant-making organization Chicago Foundation for Women (CFW). One of the CFW’s most important efforts is the 100% Project. The initiative launched in September 2015 and, through dialogue between both genders, aims to increase women’s economic security and put an end to gender bias in metropolitan Chicago by 2030.

This massive undertaking is an ambitious one, and if you would have told Sujata years ago that this would be her future endeavor, she may not have believed you. With her formal training in Materials Science and Engineering, she started her career in nonprofits and advocacy as a volunteer at Apna Ghar, an organization that helps battered immigrant women and children to end gender violence. Seated in her office near a wall adorned by colorful paintings and a beautiful quilt purchased by CFW’s founder Lucia Woods Lindley in 1985, Sujata talks humbly about her time at Apna Ghar and how what she saw herself doing for perhaps a year turned into nearly five, remaining “a truly transformative experience.”

Sujata and CFW continue to pay it forward through outreach and research, and two of the things that remain at the forefront of issues they want to tackle are the current state of child care and healthcare. With the state budget crisis and the Child Care Assistance Program in Illinois almost being cut last year, the organization is trying to get a handle on the specific impact the budget has on women and girls—who make up over half the population—and compare it to where it was five years ago.

“It used to be that more than 50,000 children were left without child care1, and my sense of this is that if you want us to be productive members of society, we have to have good, safe and reliable child care for our children so that we can go to work, whether you are a man or a woman.”

The average income in 2015 for a single mother in Cook County was roughly $26,0192, with the average cost of childcare in Illinois being anywhere from $11-$13,000 a year3. The majority of income that remains goes to rent, which leaves little for food, clothing, or much else. “It’s not just rent burden,” Sujata explains. “They’re rent-distressed.”

WOMEN

BY THE NUMBERS Nearly

1 out of 4 children in Chicago live with a single mother

According to Women Employed,

nearly 2/3

of minimum wage workers are women

According to a 2016 McKinsey&Company report, inequality is high or extremely high on six indicators in work and society: LEADERSHIP AND MANAGERIAL POSITIONS UNPAID CARE WORK SINGLE MOTHERS TEENAGE PREGNANCY POLITICAL REPRESENTATION VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN

There are

only 66 women for every 100 men in business-leadership and managerial positions.

There is one incident of

sexual violence for every two women in the United States.

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The present state of women and education is less bleak. Women, even those coming from low-income households, understand that the pathway out of poverty is education, so more are going to college and getting degrees.

Yet problems in the workforce remain as women are still predominantly working in low-wage jobs, and the opportunities for promotion, if you happen to be hired, are slim and even more so for women of color. “We are seeing more and more women getting into managerial positions but then they’re not getting the promotions that they need. So economic security is impacting women at all ends of the spectrum, right from the top to women who are just entering the workforce” Sujata says.

I want to see a world where every girl child has the chance and opportunity... and that you are not restricted to your class and status.

Whether it is about women’s economic parity or gender bias— two of the biggest issues facing Chicago women right now—the conversation is inclusive and having male advocates is just as important as having the support of women. CFW calls them “male champions of change,” and they are fortunate to have many. Troy Henikoff, managing director of Techstars, Tom Alexander, COO for 1871, Kurt Summers, treasurer of the City of Chicago, and Greg Cameron, executive director of The Joffrey Ballet, are just a few people Sujata commends as advocates for gender parity. As champions of change, each of them influences peers and shares policies that might be useful for others to learn from as they share metrics and progress toward the goals they set for themselves.

As 2016 comes to a close, the ultimate American glass ceiling remains unshattered with Hillary Clinton’s loss in the presidential election. For it to take so long as it has for one of the richest and most progressive countries in the world to elect a female president is shocking, Sujata says openly, as someone who grew up in India where there was a female Prime Minister (Indira Gandhi) in 1966.

With the arduous 2016 election finally behind us, one can’t help but wonder what it would have been like to have our first female president. Laughing at her optimism, Sujata shares her hopes that with Theresa May and Angela Merkel in powerful leadership roles, it gives us an opportunity to really begin thinking about world peace. What she fears is that people will think that the job is finished, when in fact, there is still so much to be done. “We haven’t ended violence against women, we haven’t ended health disparities, we don’t have reproductive health and justice for all women, we don’t have pay equity, we don’t have income equity… All of those things are not going to shift overnight, but the opportunities for the next generation to see role models that are like them, will grow. I want to see a world where every girl child has the chance and opportunity that I had even though you don’t come from a wealthy family, and that you are not restricted to your class and status.” cw To learn more about the 100% Project, visit, cfw.org/100-percent.

Footnotes. 1. Progress Illinois- Illinois Child Care Assistance Program Serves 55,000 Fewer Children After Rauner Budget Cuts, Union Claims. 2. U.S. Census Bureau’s 2015 American Community Survey 1-Year Estimates, Table B19126. 3. Economic Policy Institute- Child care is out of reach for working families earning the minimum wage.

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THE POWER IN

PHILANTHROPY The benefits of volunteerism and philanthropy are many—not only for the receiving organization, but for you as well. Stduies have shown that paying it forward makes you happier, reduces stress and aniety, increases your confidence, and provides a sense of purpose. Here, nine exceptional women tell Chicago Woman about the organizations they support and why.

Board of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, The Board of Managers of the YMCA of Metropolitan Chicago, McCormick Theological Seminary, Executives’ Club of Chicago, and the Metropolitan Club Board of Governors. I served on the National Board of Girl Scouts of the USA for nine years and served as national president and board chair for six of those years. I was the highest-ranking volunteer of the approximately 2.6 million member organization.

I started Girl Scouts as a Brownie and continued through Cadet. Being a lifelong Girl Scout has informed my approach to leadership, intellectual rigor, advocacy, and community engagement.

connie lindsey EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT AND HEAD OF CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY AND GLOBAL DIVERSITY & INCLUSION, NORTHERN TRUST The focus of my philanthropy and the organizations with which I choose to serve are based on my faith and some of my core values of service, leadership, and inclusion. I have a strong interest in the economic empowerment, education, and leadership development of women and girls.

Another important part of my philanthropic service is broadening cancer research and access to cancer treatments in underserved communities.

This focus informs the way I direct my investments of time and money. I believe that talent is universal, but opportunity is not, therefore, I look for opportunities to utilize my gifts and talents in ways that provide opportunities and access for others.

I serve and have served on several local and national non-profit boards. I currently serve on the National

Some wise person said, “What we get is how we make a living, what we give is how we make a life.”

My philanthropic work allows me to have influence and impact on issues that matter to me and to affect positive outcomes on the lives of others and society as a whole. Gaining access to the governance and the leadership of nonprofit boards allows me to influence inclusion and outcomes.

Furthermore, research shows that the benefits of “giving back” actually have a positive physiological impact—including at the cellular level—which boosts everything from psychological outlook to the heart and immune system. I learned to give not only because I have been given much but also because I know what it feels like to have less or to be seen as “less than.”

My reasons for serving and making significant financial investments in causes I care about are not done for personal recognition. I am always grateful when I am acknowledged for service given and hear great stories of how my service or involvement has made a difference in the work of an organization or the life of a recipient; but what matters most to me is that my life’s purpose meets a need in the world and my community. cw

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

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THE POWER IN

PHILANTHROPY

merri dee

kathy hopinkah hannan

LEGENDARY BROADCASTER AND AUTHOR

GLOBAL LEAD PARTNER, KPMG

As I begin to celebrate my 50th broadcast year in radio and 38 years in television spent at WGN-TV, I take a moment to reflect on a career that has given me possibly more than I have given it. Such a privilege it has been to raise much needed dollars for so many in need. I have had a calling to assist others in need since my teenage years, and my work allowed me the privilege of exposure to many organizations. The choices have been many, and it seems that nothing has changed in that arena of need.

I am passionate about advancing women in leadership, and what better organization to lead than Girl Scouts of the USA, which for more than 100 years has ensured a pipeline of female leadership in the United States and beyond. I, too, was a Girl Scout, and to this day I still use the skills I gained from Girl Scouting. I have served on the National Board of Directors of GSUSA for over five years and currently serve as chairman of the board.

Along with the National Board, I am responsible for the governance of the organization and setting its strategic direction in addition to raising financial support.

I currently work with GOODCITY, an organization dedicated to assisting young entrepreneurs in minority or under-served communities. Many of them are brilliant but lack the know-how and resources to move forward. GOODCITY reaches, teaches, raises funds, and encourages excellence in entrepreneurship, making Chicago a better place to live.

Fifteen years ago, I stood with the mayor and other legislators as we broke ground to build Chicago Children’s Advocacy Center, where children who had been physically abused would come, tell their story, and receive immediate care. It’s located on “MERRI DEE WAY” (13TH & Damen Ave.). What a privilege!

Because I still love the little children and believe they, in their innocence, need the most guidance and positive models, I have joined the board of trustees at the Kohl Children’s Museum.

Many have said “thank you for all you do for others,” I can honestly answer, “the privilege is all mine.” cw

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I make it a point to spend time with the diverse girls we serve at every age. We need new leadership in this country. We need a diversity of ideas and talent to maintain our standing on the global stage, and I am optimistic of the future when I see firsthand what our girls are doing and how they are leading and making a difference in their communities. Investing in girls is an investment in our future. I am most honored and humbled to be at the helm of Girl Scouts of the USA, as we tirelessly work to ensure we are addressing the needs of tomorrow’s girls. cw

THE POWER IN

PHILANTHROPY

elizabeth connelly

gail d. hasbrouck, sr.

INDUSTRY HEAD, HEALTHCARE HIGHER ED., NOT-FOR-PROFIT, JP MORGAN COMMERCIAL BANK

VICE PRESIDENT, GENERAL COUNSEL, AND CORPORATE SECRETARY, ADVOCATE HEALTHCARE

My interest in philanthropy started at a young age. My parents expected us to volunteer and help others as they had done throughout their lives. I have served as a volunteer and a trustee for many organizations, with a few key themes in mind.

First, as a mother of four, I am compelled to work to improve the lives of children who don’t have the same opportunities as my children. That is the reason why I became involved in the Shedd Aquarium and Children’s Home & Aid Society.

Second, I believe the arts are essential to a vibrant community, so I serve as a board member for Steppenwolf and Harris Theater. Finally, I serve on the Polk Bros. Board because I believe foundations play a critical role in providing leadership, strategic direction, and continuity in the nonprofit community.

It sounds cliché, but I have received so much more than I have given in my volunteer work.

The non-profit board room has proven to be a great training ground for me. I attribute much of my success to all that I have learned through my work with these world-class institutions. One of my greatest achievements and the ultimate reward as a parent has been to see my work come full circle as my children have begun to follow in our family tradition and become involved as volunteers in our community. cw

“LIFE IS WHY” is the phrase that the American Heart Association uses to explain the reason for its vital work to improve cardiovascular health in our communities. That phrase explains why I volunteer with the AHA. They are improving our lives through initiatives such as getting defibrillators placed in airports; supporting legislation that significantly reduced cigarette smoking in public areas; working with the city to have 12-lead EKGs installed in ambulances; and, most recently, mandatory CPR training in high schools.

My work with the AHA began in 2010 when I was asked to chair the Metro Chicago Heart Walk.

I reached out to other general counsels and law firm partners, expanding the number of companies involved with the Heart Walk. I have been a member of the Metro Chicago Board of Directors since 2010 and, from 2015 through 2017, board chair. As chair of the board I wanted to contribute to AHA’s mission in a new way. Last year, we created “Counsel for a Cause”—a fundraising event for the legal community featuring an evening with a celebrity chef at popular restaurants. The inaugural event was at Perennial Virant and this year at Balena.

I am most proud that my connection to the legal community has helped to better inform lawyers about heart disease and given them an opportunity to support the work of the AHA. cw

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THE POWER IN

PHILANTHROPY

kapila anand

KPMG SEGMENT LEADER FOR TRAVEL, LEISURE AND HOSPITALITY My parents, who were doctors, worked with UNICEF for many years. I have always had a passion around the protection and empowerment of women and children, which aligned so well with the mission of UNICEF. It was a big jump from trick or treating for UNICEF as a child to working with their board, but it felt like a natural next step. Every time that UNICEF jumps into a crisis from protecting migrant children or assisting child victims of war I feel like my work and resources have been put to good use.

Additionally, I lost a nephew to cancer and remember how the Ronald McDonald house helped him in his time of need. It put a smile on his face when he was in between radiation treatments. Volunteering to provide food, toys and comfort for families and their children in medical distress in Ronald McDonald houses feels like I am paying it forward in some small way and brings a smile to my face. cw

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sharon oberlander

MANAGING DIRECTOR AND WEALTH MANAGEMENT ADVISOR, MERRILL LYNCH It was a happy coincidence of being passionate about opera and working for Merrill Lynch, an opera sponsor. In my experience, passion helps you find time. This explains how I went from regular subscriber to board member in a few years. As a board member, I participate on the Endowment Investment and Civic Engagement committees. But my true pleasure is exposing people to the opera for the first time. Whenever I’ve been brought together with kindred spirits who are united in the cause of giving back, I’ve reliably felt a sense of joy. I’m truly grateful for that. I am especially proud of Lyric Unlimited, which expands our education programs and brings opera to communities across Chicago.

One of our programs, Chicago Voices, celebrates the intersection of storytelling and opera with all musical genres. Expect some exciting events around town in January with Chicago Voices Fest and Talk! cw

THE POWER IN

PHILANTHROPY

maureen schulman

christie hefner

My father-in-law Eli Schulman’s mantra was “Charity will never bust you.” Our family has always operated on this premise. I am involved with two organizations: The U.S. Memorial Holocaust Museum, with a very large national presence, and The Happiness Club, a much smaller local group. They both strive for peace, tolerance, and the well-being of the world.

I first got to know the Black Ensemble Theater as a member of the audience. I loved the energy and spirit of the shows and the engagement of the audience. Founded by Jackie Thomas in 1976, B.E.T. produces all original musicals showcasing stories that work to eradicate racism—-a part of their mission.

Additionally, Jackie has created outreach programs helping 10,000 kids a year through the public schools that use theater to develop conflict resolution skills, train future actors, writers and directors, and give kids another reason to stay in school.

DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC RELATIONS, ELI’S CHEESECAKE

The Happiness Club is a diverse group of Chicago kids who encourage positive values and social change through the creation of original hip-hop and pop music, dance and rap. Artistic Director Tanji Harper is a talented choreographer and runs the group on a shoestring of a budget. I am the board chair, overseeing a very small board, so every member’s efforts are incredibly important. Each year my husband, Marc Schulman, and I co-chair the annual benefit at Park West, raising half of the annual budget. I am very proud that many of the graduates stay on as assistant teachers and mentors, and that all of the kids go on to college or some form of secondary education or training.

I have always been interested in the subject of The Holocaust, as both a time in history that must never be forgotten as well as a warning of what could happen in the future. The museum not only educates its millions of visitors each year but also attempts to educate extremists around the world through an aggressive social media initiative. Thinking that I may, in some small way, be helping the museum carry out its powerful mission is certainly gratifying. cw

After a few years of knowing Jackie, she approached me and my then-husband, Senator William Marovitz, about co-chairing a capital campaign for B.E.T. so that they could have their first permanent theater.

We agreed to take on the task of raising the funds as capital campaign co-chairs and, in 2011, the new B.E.T. Cultural Center was opened and Jackie’s dream became a reality.

For me, working on behalf of unique organizations that are not already well-supported is especially rewarding. I had done it before in chairing the effort to raise $30 million to build the Ruth Rothstein Core Center, which integrates education, prevention, access to clinical trials, outpatient care, and support services for people with HIV/AIDS and other infectious diseases.

In these cases, being able to help facilitate the physical manifestation of a dream---whether Jackie Taylor’s or the doctors and nurses at County and Rush---is an amazing gift. cw

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D DESIREE VARGAS WRIGLEY, CO-FOUNDER OF GIVEFORWARD, A MEDICAL CROWDFUNDING PLATFORM, AND FOUNDER AND CEO OF PEARACHUTE, A SUBSCRIPTION SERVICE FOR KID’S ACTIVITIES, IS THE PROUD MOM OF TWO AND A CHICAGO TECH SUPERSTAR. THIS MONTH, WE’RE CATCHING UP WITH THE UNSTOPPABLE MOMPRENEUR TO HEAR HER EXCITING JOURNEY AND THE LESSONS SHE’S LEARNED ALONG THE WAY.

TECH CONVERSATIONS

Desiree Vargas Wrigley INTERVIEW BY TERRI BRAX, FOUNDER OF TEACHERCARE AND WOMEN TECH FOUNDERS

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THE STORY ABOUT THE EARLY GIVEFORWARD DAYS IS INSPIRING ON MANY LEVELS. CAN YOU SHARE THE JOURNEY THAT TOOK YOU FROM A COLLEGE GRADUATE WAITING TABLES TO RUNNING ONE OF CHICAGO’S MOST SUCCESSFUL SOCIAL IMPACT TECH START-UPS? While in college, I fell in love with corporate social responsibility.

Unfortunately, finding a job as a Latin American Studies major post-college was tough. I ended up waiting tables at a bar, where one lunch, I waited on someone from the Kauffman Foundation. He introduced my resume to the VP of Entrepreneurship who happened to be running a new entrepreneurship program on college campuses and needed someone to help her navigate the campuses.

In the beginning, no one believed in the idea of GiveForward. People asked me “why would people give if there’s no tax deduction?” And everyone thought it should be a non-profit. I was committed to making this a company that could do good and do well at the same time and held firm to that conviction. My co-founder, Ethan Austin, came on board early in 2008 and had the same desire. But honestly, that decision made the business hard. We slogged for two years trying to get fundraisers on the site. We decided that we couldn’t afford a ton of advertising, so instead we would create magical customer experiences so they would tell their friends. And they did. By March of 2010, we’d helped people raise $1M and by the time I left last November, we were at almost $190M. I REMEMBER SEEING THE PASSION IN YOUR EYES WHEN YOU FIRST TOLD ME ABOUT PEARACHUTE. WHAT DROVE THAT PASSION? I never thought about what was next after GiveForward, because I could never imagine doing anything else. But a couple of years ago, I started to doubt myself. The company wasn’t growing as quickly as anyone would like, and I was stressed all of the time. I started to think about what might be next for me and for GiveForward.

Ultimately, we decided to bring in a new CEO to try to accelerate the business. And honestly, it was hard to watch someone else run my first baby. It was a hard decision to leave, but in the end, I’m grateful that I did.

Pearachute is a monthly membership club that makes it easy for parents and caregivers to discover, book, and drop into the best kids’ classes in your city. But it’s so much more than just offering parents convenience and choice. It’s so easy as

parents to let nights and weekends slip by filled with social obligations and trips to Target. But by taking 45 minutes over the weekend to sing silly songs with your kids or do messy art in some place that isn’t your home, you create specific memories with your child and increase your sense of presence as a parent.

WHAT LESSONS DID YOU TAKE AWAY FROM GROWING GIVEFORWARD THAT HELPED YOU DRIVE PEARACHUTE? There are so many lessons that you learn as a first-time founder, many of which I’m sure I take for granted. But the two most important to me are: First, build a great team that you can trust and give them the room to make mistakes and wow you, because they will do both if you let them. Second, fear and self-doubt weaken the entire organization. Your team takes its cues from you, and if you lead from a place of insecurity and doubt, it will trickle down to your entire company. This time around, I’m not even letting that little voice speak.

YOU’VE BEEN A STRONG ADVOCATE FOR WOMEN TECH FOUNDERS, SHARING YOUR STORY WITH MANY ENTREPRENEURS. WHY DOES THIS CAUSE MATTER TO YOU? I firmly believe that the reason we don’t have many women founders has little to do with access and has far more to do with our own insecurities. For a long time, we hid behind our own subconscious or conscious image of what we thought founders were like—20 year-old guys in hoodies.

Now, as I mature in my ambitions, I have bigger goals for women tech founders. I want to see more exits. We need more women selling their businesses and feeding back into the eco-system as investors and second-time founders. We can only do that by building amazing companies that we position for acquisitions and IPOs. That’s what is going to ultimately change the image of what tech founders look like.

WERE THERE ANY DEFINING MOMENTS THAT LED YOU TO REALIZE YOU WERE AN ENTREPRENEUR? My mom gave me a magnet when I was starting GiveForward that said, “Leap and the net will appear.” I think that the moment I decided to pursue GiveForward full-time was the moment I became an entrepreneur. I did whatever it took to make it possible, from waiting tables five nights a week to borrowing money through every channel I could. cw

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MEN WE LOVE

Ashley Wheater ARTISTIC DIRECTOR THE JOFFREY BALLET

B

orn just outside of Edinburgh, “on the lonely moors of Scotland,” Wheater began his ballet training at the age of six, after his family moved to the Midlands region of central England. Wheater credits his teacher with encouraging him to audition, for the Royal Ballet School. “She really pushed me to audition and it was an amazingly intimidating experience,” he recalls. Wheater was accepted, but his parents could not afford to send him. A local grant program that supported the pursuits of talented children allowed Wheater to embark on his training at the Royal Ballet School.

Wheater’s professional career included stints at London Festival Ballet (now called English National Ballet), Australian Ballet, and San Francisco Ballet.

It was while dancing at the Australian Ballet that Wheater met Gerald Arpino, the co-founder (with Robert Joffrey) of The Joffrey Ballet. “We got on really well,” Wheater recalls. “He was such a fun

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Widely regarded as one of the top dance companies in the world, The Joffrey Ballet is uniquely American, both in terms of geography and its commitment to a diverse repertoire and community outreach. On the eve of the highly-anticipated debut of Christopher Wheeldon’s Nutcracker, Artistic Director Ashley Wheater talks to Chicago Woman about his transition from dancer to company leader and the exciting new version of the holiday classic.

by Jennifer Smith Tapp

man. He told me that I needed to come to New York to meet Robert Joffrey.” Wheater took Arpino up on his offer, landed a contract with The Joffrey Ballet in 1984, and danced there for four years before moving on to San Francisco Ballet in 1989.

Wheater retired as a dancer in 1997 while at San Francisco Ballet but stayed on there as ballet master and later assistant to the artistic director. It was in 2007 that Wheater received a phone call informing him that he made the short list in the search for the new artistic director of The Joffrey Ballet, which by

THE NEW NUTCRACKER that time had already made the move to Chicago.

Wheater remembers that he didn’t exactly jump at the opportunity at the time. “I said that I was so incredibly honored, but that things we really good for me in San Francisco and as honored as I was, I think that you should continue the search.” It was Lar Lubovitch, founder of the Chicago Dancing Festival, who persuaded Wheater to come meet the Joffrey board and take the position. The considerable charms of the city as well as the enthusiasm of the board eventually won Wheater over. “I have always loved Chicago and the people that I met on the board were people who really cared. They care about the arts and they care about Chicago. By the end of that week, they offered me the job, and I didn’t hesitate.”

Since his involvement with The Joffrey Ballet in the late 80’s, Wheater kept up to date on what was happening at the company and was able to ease into his tenure as leader. But that doesn’t mean that it wasn’t daunting. “When you are given the responsibility, it’s a huge responsibility.

And there are many lives involved. The goal has always been to do what is right for the company.

How do you nurture people and keep the artistic plan moving forward and move the company forward?” When asked about how he would describe what separates the Joffrey from other companies, Wheater explains that the Joffrey is a company “for everyone, as Robert Joffrey had originally intended it to be.” Through the company’s community engagement programs, children from the city’s under-served neighborhoods are given the chance to experience the joy of dance through instruction and performance opportunities. cw

During a press conference in April, it was announced that The Joffrey Ballet will premiere a new version of The Nutcracker, choreographed

by Tony Award winner Christopher Wheeldon.

The updated version will have the 1893 World’s Fair as a backdrop, celebrating the city while providing a more working-class family setting.

Wheater, who danced in the first performance of Robert Joffrey’s Nutcracker in 1987 when it premiered in Iowa, mentions that kids from CPS who saw the performances of the Joffrey Nutcracker struggled to relate to Clara’s privileged background. “They would tell us that the story didn’t make sense to them. They think it’s pretty, but they don’t relate to it.” Nine years ago while working together in New York City, Wheeldon mentioned to Wheater that he wanted to do a Nutcracker and that he wanted to stage it at the Joffrey. “We talked about how to make it relevant, how to engage people and make it thoughtful” Wheater recalls. “We have it set during the winter before the Chicago World’s Fair from a worker’s point of view.” In a sharp departure from the original narrative, the mother is a single mom of two who creates sculptures for the World’s Fair. Far from the opulent celebration we are used to seeing, this party scene is sparse and is more akin to a potluck, with toys that have seen better days but are no less magical. An award-winning creative team of set designers, puppeteers, lighting and set designers helps to reimagine the story for a modern audience.

CHRISTOPHER WHEELDON’S NUTCRACKER RUNS DECEMBER 10–30 AT THE AUDITORIUM THEATRE.

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t s o m e h t l u f r e d n o w f o e tim r a e y the HOLIDAY GUIDE

MAKING THE MOST OF THE SEASON

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r a d n e l a c r mark you NUTCRACKER OPENING NIGHT CELEBRATION

A CHRISTMAS CAROL

Through December 31, 2016

December 11, 2016

The Goodman Theatre brings the classic story from Charles Dickens’ to life with messages of hope, charity and kindness towards others which means more than ever this season. Share this heartwarming tradition— chock full of festive music, glorious costumes and more stage magic than ever—with friends and loved ones. goodmantheatre.org

Celebrating The Joffrey Ballet and Christopher Wheeldon, The Nutcracker post-performance gathering features an open bar and hors d’oeuvres. Tickets are $250. joffrey.org

HOLIDAY BAROQUE December 11, 2016

A CHARLIE BROWN CHRISTMAS Through January 8, 2016

HE FOR T E O WH L Y FAMIL

Tis the season to celebrate everyone’s favorite Peanuts pals as they dig past the commercialized gimmicks of presents and decorations to rediscover the true meaning of Christmas. Through a pageant and a spindly tree, Charlie Brown and friends bring the holiday spirit back to life for families once again! Best for families and children ages 3-13.

Tickets start at $24. broadwayinchicago.com

DECEMBER 10, 2016

Rembrandt Chamber Players is hosting its annual holiday concert featuring classics by Bach and Handel in a glorious setting where audience members will be surrounded by beautiful stained glass. Tickets are $38. rembrandtchamberplayers.org

TWISTED DICKENS December 2-30, 2016 The Second City’s irreverent and interactive seasonal satire, Twist Your Dickens returns to Goodman Theatre for its third year with new yuletide yuks and favorite faces bringing to life the skewered version of Charles Dickens’ classic story through parody and improv. goodmantheatre.org

DECEMBER 16, 2016

THROUGH DECEMBER 24, 2016

Holiday Remix 2016

Ugly Sweater Dance Party

Holiday Magic 2016

This eco-friendly market features more than 50 artists working with recycled/ repurposed materials. There will be “do it yourself” workshops where ornaments will be made. Food and beverages will be served. remixchicago.com

The Duet Dance Studio is hosting an event where attendees will have a chance to wear their ugliest Christmas sweaters and take a beginner salsa class. Event is BYOB. Admission is $20.

The 35th annual light festival is the largest one of its kind, with over one million twinkling LED lights around the Brookfield Zoo. General admission is $17.85 for adults and $12.50 for children. czs.org

11 a.m.-4 p.m., Broadway Armory Park, 5917 North Broadway Street

9:00 p.m.-10:30 p.m. at Duet Dance Studio, 2412 West North Avenue #201

DECEMBER 12, 2016

Little Women Family Christmas Event 20% Theatre Company is hosting a pre-performance event with hot chocolate, carols, and creation of Civil War era decorations. Autograph and photo session with the cast.

twentypercentchicago.com 12:30p.m. at The Conservatory, 4210 North Lincoln Avenue

duetdancestudio.com

Brookfield Zoo, 8400 West 31st Street, Brookfield

THROUGH MARCH 5, 2017 DECEMBER 18, 2016

Feast of the Seven Fishes Buone feste! This Southern-Italian celebration of Christmas Eve, Feast of the Seven Fishes, includes a sevencourse sharable feast. $75 per person.

spiaggiarestaurant.com 4:30 p.m. and 7 p.m. seatings.

Cafe Spiaggia, 980 North Michigan Avenue

McCormick Tribune Ice Rink In its 16th season, the ice rink has become a winter tradition in Chicagoland drawing over 100,00 skaters annually.

Admission is free. Skate rental is available for $12. cityofchicago.org

Millennium Park, 201 East Randolph Street

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Whether you are single in the city or married with kids, keep your love life hot during the holiday season and through the winter.

y a d i l ho love

line new on Marilyn’s ithin hoto. W p g in at d nching” of “relau s th n o m new r e h with herself t her she me s, to o h p y just e th d an match, one-year ted their celebra y. ar annivers ’s : Marilyn BELOW hoto. profile p original

FINDING YOUR MATCH

Add Some Sparkle to Your Dating Profile!

By Bela Gandhi

One in three marriages in 2015 happened because of online dating connections! And 43 percent of the adult population is single—almost half of us!

So if it feels like you are the last single woman left in Chicago, or you have a friend that feels like she is, it’s not true! Online dating can work—and this is the perfect time of year to make some changes that will work!

GO SOLO. No other people—family or friend—pets, or kids should be in your shots.

DRESS TO IMPRESS. Look like the best version of yourself. Pretty blouses with nice necklines and dresses and skirts in solid jewel-toned colors photograph best.

Photos will determine 90 percent of your success in online dating. Here are five easy photo tips to add some sparkle to your online profile.

BE YOURSELF. Post photos that look like you!

Make sure they are not more than one year old.

People want to date the person in the picture— so don’t include pictures with different hair colors, lengths, etc. Look like you, today.

HEADSHOTS AND BODYSHOTS. Five or six photos are all that you need. Your opening photo is the most important picture. Make direct eye contact with the camera. Go for a close up of your face (headshot) with a great smile.

KEEP IT FRESH. Change at least one photo per week on your profile. Online dating sites favor and prioritize singles who are including new photos to look at! cw Bela Gandhi is founder and president of Smart Dating Academy. Learn more at smartdatingacademy.com.

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ROMANCE

DIVORCE

Don’t Forget Date Nights!

Turn Your Break-up Into a Gift

by Jennifer Smith Tapp

by Gemma Allen

With the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, its easy to forget to take the time to connect with your significant other. Make the time and keep your date nights on the calendar.

For those who are living in love, the upcoming holidays will be joyous. It can be more difficult to “deck the halls” when your relationship is under stress, but here are some positive steps to make this holiday season merrier.

TAKE IN THE LIGHTS. Head to the Mag Mile. Start with a carriage ride down Michigan Avenue. Stop at the Allium in the Four Seasons to warm up with a cup of tea or try a Sea Salt Caramel Hot Cocoa at Ghirardelli.

SEASONAL STRESS RELEASE. Book a relaxing spa treatment for you and your partner. Make a visit to the Spa at The Waldorf Astoria for a Lava Shell Massage as an alternative to a hot stone massage.

ESCAPE. Get away from the chaos of holiday planning and shopping by getting out of the city. New boutique hotels a few hours from the city are your best bets. Try the newly renovated Delafield Hotel for contemporary luxury. It’s located in Delafield, Wisconsin, just 90 minutes from the city and nestled in a small town.

Dine in the lobby restaurant I.d., which rivals any Chicago hot spot in cuisine and ambiance. cw

JOYFUL TRADITIONS. If you have children together, make some new traditions while honoring the old. Do the usual holiday dinner at grandmother’s, but follow it with a gooey dessert party or family movie binge at home.

BE INCLUSIVE. Extend as much holiday spirit of inclusiveness to the children’s other parent as you can find in your heart. Invite him or her to open presents Christmas morning or share one or two nights of Hanukkah.

SHARE SPECIAL ACTIVITY TIME. Work around parenting schedules to maximize the children’s experience at both homes. If the other parent is decorating the tree or lighting the candles, then you be the one wrapping gifts or making cookies.

SPEND TIME WITH FRIENDS. If you are suddenly single, shamelessly invite yourself to OPFs (other people’s families or friends).

GIVE BACK. Say yes to those holiday charities or soup kitchen opportunities.

Remember that the holidays celebrate not just the end of the old year but also can herald a bright, shiny new one— one where happiness (and romance) can be just days or weeks away. cw Gemma Allen is a partner in the Chicago family law firm of Ladden & Allen, Chartered. She can be reached at gemmaallen@laddenallen.com.

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TRY THIS AT HOME

THE HOLIDAY

Coffee Table

DINNER PARTY

C

Written & Photographed

by Marc J. Sievers

offee table entertaining is something I have been doing for years, and you probably have been too, but maybe just never realized it! Think about it, whenever we have people over, we set out a few nibbles, typically on a coffee table, so that our guests can sit, relax, sip a drink, and get caught up with one another. We lay out cocktail napkins, place a vase of flowers, light candles, and so on. Now, if we just go about it in a new and more thoughtful way, you can have an entire dinner party on your coffee table! This is especially useful when the space you call home doesn’t have a dining room or even a dining table—like some of us city dwellers!

I love entertaining around a coffee table so much that my husband Ryan and I have arranged our main living space to be able to accommodate two sitting areas, each with a coffee table for entertaining! Whether I have over-extended the amount of people our apartment can accommodate (yes, I do this all the time!), or I just want to entertain a friend and change things up—a coffee table acts as not only a place for overflow during a holiday party but also a fabulous cozy spot for me and my +1!

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With a few small holiday-inspired details it is amazing how fabulous a setting you can create on a coffee table that will impress even the most sophisticated guest.

Elevated Coffee Table. Just as you would set a traditional dining table, do the same using everything you would normally use: tablecloth (or placemats), stemware, flatware, dinnerware, candles, flowers, etc. This applies to a get-together any time of day—remember, a tabletop is a tabletop, so don’t let this hinder how simple or elaborate you want to make it!

High and Low.

Create a visual focal point for your soirée by using different heights of unscented candles, multiple sizes and variations of flowers and vases, a collection of holiday ornaments nestled into branches strung with colored LED lights (no plug required!), or even the same lights wrapped around a candelabra—can we say drama?!

Get a Side Piece. If you want to serve hors d’oeuvres or nibbles, have them organized on a tray, on a side table, or other surface so as not to interfere with the place settings on the coffee table.

Creative Settings. Designing place settings for two allows you to mix and match pieces! I love collecting antique plates, glassware, and flatware. This is the perfect opportunity to showcase certain collections you have with fewer settings that you may not be able to use if you were entertaining a larger group.

Tailored Menu.

The menu can really make or break a soirée like this, so be careful!

Choose a menu that is easy to eat (this isn’t the place to serve piping hot noodles that are already tricky to eat!). Try serving soup in large mugs so that you and your guest can sit back and sip and relax. Serve the entrée and sides pre-plated so that you don’t have extra clutter from pans and serving dishes crowding the table. I will say that preplating for two people is actually doable and doesn’t require the counter space that it does for ten! cw

For more ideas on food and entertaining for you and a +1, visit MarcSievers.com and your copy of Sievers’ latest cookbook Table for Two: Cooking and Entertaining for You and Your +1.

TIME TO TOAST!

By Consuelo Martinez-Quattrocchi

This holiday season consider something different from your usual cellar picks.

Leave your comfort zone when choosing wine as a gift, for a family gathering, or casual get together. Remember it does not need to be expensive to be delicious. Be thoughtful: understand your guest or recipient’s taste preferences or favorite cuisine. Here are three wines worth giving and serving.

VIOGNIER. For the white wine drinker, try Viognier. Originally a French grape varietal, it is now grown from California to Virginia to Argentina. Viognier is well-suited to festive foods like crab legs, shrimp cocktail, and lobster tail and great as a single sipper.

PROSECCO. For the lover of luxury but with a thin wallet, think sparkling Italian Prosecco.

Bright, clean, and crisp, it is made from Glera grapes with secondary fermentation. Unlike French Champagne, Prosecco’s fermentation is in large steel tanks. Effervescent and lighter tasting than French Champagne, it pairs perfectly with smoked salmon appetizers or on its own for midnight toasting.

ORANGE WINE. For the undecided, try “Orange” wine, which are the result of skinfermented white grapes for an extended period of 2 weeks to 9 months. Butterscotch-colored to bright copper, usually full-bodied with a unique aroma and cider like vibrancy, orange wines are good “go-between” wines, lighter than red, fuller-bodied than white. Rich holiday dishes like rack of lamb, beef tenderloin, and smoked pork loin marry well with the acidic and tannic structure of orange wines.

Needs help choosing? Consult your local wine merchant for their recommendations. cw

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t s i l h s i w

Checking off holiday wish lists for others is a lot of work.

We wanted to shake things up a bit by sharing some of our favorite gifts to get for yourself this season. Here, a few fabulous items to covet for you and you alone. Because you’re worth it. by Katie Schuppler and Jennifer Smith Tapp

UNICORN SQUARE SILK SCARF $34.50, loft.com Unicorns are a major trend this year so why not wear a beautiful watercolorinspired printed scarf with them on it!

ANKLE BOOTIES BY CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN $995, barneys.com Louboutins have become a classic label.

These ankle booties are a perfect staple to anchor your shoe collection.

JOURS HANDBAG BY FENDI $2,650, fendi.com This brand is one of the hottest handbag labels to carry into the next year! We love the classic style of this option with the pop of pink to add some edge.

DOUBLE BREASTED COAT $228, anntaylor.com This comfy and modern take on a traditional look is one of our favorites.

Try it in the “Stellar Blue” color to stay on the jewel-tone color trend.

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TABLE FOR TWO, $39.00, marcsievers.com.

Marc Sievers’ latest cookbook features recipes and entertaining ideas for you and your plus one. Perfect for new couples!

AMT JEWELRY 18K GOLD AND DIAMOND ROSE SOLEIL DROPS $5,820, amtjewelry.com.

Conflict-free jewelry collection.

HERMÈS TERRE D’HERMÈS EAU DE TOILETTE $125, sephora.com.

MIneral notes give root to woody tones and warm resins flow behind rich green notes and clear dewy water to bloom into the air with the vivacity and sparkle of citrus scents enhanced by a note of shiso.

Let your personal Stella & Dot Stylist, Amy Lapine, take on your endless gift list! www.stelladot.com/amylapine amylapine@gmail.com DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

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WHAT TO WEAR

TRY THIS AT HOME

The Holiday Office Party

KATIE SCHUPPLER, OWNER AND PERSONAL STYLE CONSULTANT, KS STYLE CONSULTING COLETTE MALOUF MESH BARRETTE

$248, saksfifthavenue.com

N E O END K TA TR , E R N M INI WEA GLA M S E S, A F MEN LAS HION E N C E TH DES D FAS IN O U L EX Y, AN D AL SEX WAR R FO FIT! T OU JIMMY CHOO LOCKETT PETITE HANDBAG $1,595, jimmychoo.com

CHRISTIAN LOUBOUTIN PUMPS

$1,195, barneys.com

OLIVIA PALERMO CROP SUSPENDER PANTS $90,

shop.nordstrom.com

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ALICE + OLIVIA VELVET AND LACE TOP $265,

neimanmarcus.com

KAT VON D INK LINER EYELINER $20,

katvondbeauty.com

HOT LIPS, TELL LAURA LUMINOUS MODERN MATTE LIPSTICK

$32, charlottetilbury.com

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

WHAT TO WEAR

Shopping the Neighborhoods

J.CREW STADIUM CLOTH COCOON COAT

$350, jcrew.com

JEANNINE ADAMS, PERSONAL STYLIST AND FOUNDER, READY PRETTY

LOFT RIBBED TWO-IN-ONE SWEATER

$70, loft.com

COLLECTION XIIX RETRO BIAS KNIT WRAP

$38, collection18.com

AYR ‘THE SKINNY’ JEANS

$165, ayr.com

MATT & NAT ‘VOLTA SLIM’ VEGAN LEATHER BACKPACK

$150, mattandnat.com

SPERRY WOMEN’S SALTWATER DUCK BOOTIES

$120, sperry.com

PROTECT YOUR SKIN FROM THE COLD

GIRL’S BEST FRIEND FACE MOISTURIZER

$34.49, avivapurebeauty.com

LANCOME HYDRA ZEN DAY CREAM

$56, bloomingdales.com

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

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WHAT TO WEAR

TRY THIS AT HOME

The Haute Hostess

KRISTIE JORFALD, CELEBRITY + PERSONAL STYLIST

DOLCE & GABBANA EMBELLISHED SUEDE MARY JANE PUMPS

$995.00, net-a-porter.com

ROKSANDA, MARGOT CREPE DRESS OSCAR DE LA RENTA JET BOUQUET RING

$1,365.00, net-a-porter.com

$175.00, modaoperandi.com

DAY N R E ED $265.00, MOD EATUR modaoperandi.com E TH EM F E BY IT T PIEC RN D E Y R R I O E N P INS AN—EV ESTME N BE W ON S V A M WO AN IN THAT C LL SEA IS A OSCAR DE LA RENTA JET BOUQUET C EARRINGS

GIFTS FOR THE HOSTESS

GALANT CHEESE SET

$25.00, onekingslane.com

DIPTYQUE HOLIDAY CANDLE TRIO

$100.00, nordstrom.com

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LSA INTERNATIONAL CELEBRATE CHAMPAGNE SAUCER GOLD,

$65.00 set of two, us.amara.com

WHAT TO WEAR

Opening Night at the Joffrey’s Nutcracker JESSICA MOAZAMI, STYLIST AND FASHION EDTIOR

BIYAN LISELA EMBELLISHED FIL COUPÉ DRESS

TS FLA H WIT DRESS D E T R PAI ULEN RN P DE SO THI IS MO UL. THF U O Y AND

$2140, net-a-porter.com

CARRERA Y CARRERA PRISMA MAXI YELLOW AND WHITE GOLD, ONYX AND DIAMOND RINGS

amarekfinejewelry.com ALEXANDER MCQUEEN EMBELLISHED LEATHER CLUTCH

$2995, net-a-porter.com

ZARA LEATHER SLIDES WITH BOW

$69.90, zara.com

YOUR DAUGHTER’S FIRST TIME AT THE NUTCRACKER Frankie’s on the Park has everything your tween needs for the holiday season!

BARI LYNN PATCH CLUTCH/ CROSSBODY BAG $42

ZOE LTD. GIRLS ROSE BROCADE FIT-&-FLARE DRESS

$265

SPECIAL OFFER RECEIVE 20% OFF YOUR FIRST ONLINE ORDER USE CODE: CHICAGOMAG FRANKIESONTHEPARK.COM 2322 N. CLARK ST. CHICAGO, IL 60614 • 773.248.0400 3708 N. SOUTHPORT AVE. CHICAGO, IL 60613 • 773.661.9060

YOSI SAMRA GIRLS CHUNKY GLITTER FLAT $66

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017 DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

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WHAT TO WEAR

TRY THIS AT HOME

New Years Eve Out on The Town JULIE HIGHTOWER, HOST, A BETTER DAY WITH JULIE

INC INTERNATIONAL CONCEPTS TAMME CLUTCH

$60, macys.com

THE LIMITED, VELVET TASSEL CHOKER $29.95,

thelimited.com

S, LIC L A MET ND D E MIX OUTS A D FUR S N I CUT HER A KE TH T A LEA ILS M ERING A D — DET SMOL LOOK A E LUX ALL 0!

AND R $15 E UND METALLIC CUTOUT JUMPSUIT

$130.00, topshop.com

STEVE MADDEN CARRSON STRAPPY SANDAL $100,nord-

strom.com

URBANCODE FAUX FUR LEPEL COLLAR WITH CHAIN FASTENING

$96, asos.com

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PERVERSION FALSE LASHES GLITTER DIP $15,

urbandecay.com

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

MAKEUP FOREVER GLITTERS

$15, sephora.com

WHAT TO WEAR

‘tis e thson sea

Seeing the Lights on Michigan Avenue MEL MUOIO, STYLE DIRECTOR

TORY

RS O COVE INTRO T ERE. GOES H

CHLOE ICONIC HOODED WOOLBLEND CAPE

$2,195, net-a-porter.com

E MOST KING TH ON A M O T TIPS Y SEAS HOLIDA ’S OF THE HICAGO F ME O C IN G WITH SO IN S WEIGH EXPERT

E VERYON S FOR E T IF G T S BE R LIST ON YOU ASY MADE E DECOR Y A ID L HO ’S RACKER EY NUTC R F F O J THE ASON FINAL SE M PROBLE ONE, NO S U L P NO

J BRAND LUXE VELVETEEN SUPER SKINNY JEANS $198,

saksfifthavenue.com

LEITH RIBBED COLD SHOULDER SWEATER $75,

nordstrom.com

LIZZIE FORTUNATO TINY TASSEL EARRINGS $140, lyst.com

VANS CHUNKY GLITTER SK8-HI SLIM ZIP

$85, vans.com

WINTER MUST HAVES

MONARCH LEATHER WRAP CHOKER $375,

fallonjewelry.com

LAURA MERCIER SILK CRÈME MOISTURIZING PHOTO EDITION FOUNDATION

$48, sephora.com NARS BUENOS AIRES VELVET GLOSS LIP PENCIL

$26, narscosmetics.com

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

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BEYOND THE COOKIE TRAY 4 Unique Uses of Cacao During the holidays, we turn to chocolate for desserts and cookies. The purest form of chocolate you can consume—cacao— can bring a new dimensions to your holiday entertaining without the sugar. Cacao is raw and significantly less processed than cocoa powder or chocolate candy bars.

100 percent cacao—such unsweetened baking chocolate — is free of sugar or other ingredients and adds bold, unadulterated chocolate flavor. by Theresa Cantafio

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FORMS OF CACAO Cacao butter is rich, buttery texture that resembles white chocolate in taste and appearance.

Cacao nibs are edible chopped cacao beans.

Cacao paste comes from cacao nibs that have been melted into a bark known that is a less-processed form of dark chocolate bars.

Cacao powder contains more fiber, nutrient and calories than cocoa powder.

SOURCE: www.onegreenplanet.org

Cacao and Brown Spice Pork Rub 5-pound pork shoulder butt, with bone

2 Tablespoons cacao, grated on a microplane 2 Tablespoons kosher salt

2 Tablespoons ground ceylon cinnamon 1/2 Tablespoon coriander, ground

French-Inspired Charcuterie with Cacao Nibs Gjetost Cheese

Cacao, chopped into small nibs

Fleur de Sel (or any coarse salt)

Tarragon, fresh leaves, torn (or dry)

2 teaspoons ground white pepper

1 teaspoon pink peppercorns, freshly grated 1 teaspoon nutmeg, freshly grated 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom

Preheat oven to 300°F. Whisk the salt, peppers, Ceylon cinnamon” is and spices together until mild, with citrus-like evenly blended. Sprinkle spice rub on large sheet of aromatic topnotes, foil. Roll pork in rub, pressing warm, floral-vanilla to coat (you will have some nuance and trace extra spice rub). Set pork on rack in large roasting cedar flavor. pan and roast for about 3 hours. Continue to roast pork about 2 1/2 hours longer, until very tender and thermometer inserted into center registers 165°F. Transfer pork to platter.

WINE PAIRING Gentle spice, dark fruit forward wine such as a Sangiovese.

Cured Jambon (or Prosciutto) Marcona Almonds

This is an easy, creative, winter charcuterie platter.

Slice wedges of the Gjetost cheese, then sprinkle with cacao nibs, torn tarragon, and fleur de sel — serve with paper-thin slices of cured jambon and Marcona almonds.

Gjetost (in the “Brunost” category, meaning “brown cheese”) is a common, Norwegian cheese-type product. A sweet, caramelized, nutty goat milk product that looks like soft, cheese-like fudge.

Winter Mezcal Cocktail with Cacao Garnish 1/2 ounce Grenadine 1 1/2 ounces Mezcal

Warm Dates Stuffed with Shaved Cacao Dates, Pitted

Blue Cheese

Rosemary, Fresh Cacao, thinly sliced with a sharp chef’s knife

WINE PAIRING Bold, velvety red wine such as a Burgundy or Red Bordeaux.

Preheat oven to 325°F. Slice pitted dates vertically, stuff with 1/2 rounded teaspoons of blue cheese, a pinch of fresh rosemary leaves, and a “chunk” of shaved cacao. Bake for about 30 minutes, until dates are soft to touch.

Herbaceous rosemary is a classic pairing with chocolate and can be incredibly beautiful, if done correctly. The addition of salty-caprylic acid forward character of blue cheese, the savory nature of warm, slow-cooked dates makes this a knockout appetizer.

WINE PAIRING Robust, plummy red wine such as a Red Zinfandel.

3/4 ounce Port

1/2 ounce Amaro Lucano Pinch Ground Sumac

Pinch Cacao, grated on microplane

Did you know that “Grenadine” is actually a pomegranate syrup, not cherry?

Fill a pint glass with ice.

Add Grenadine, Mezcal, Port, and Amaro Lucano — stir well. Strain into a coupe glass and top with finely grated cacao and a pinch of ground Sumac.

Chocolatey cacao brings all the flavors home in this hip winter cocktail. The smokey “here I am” Mezcal, bold Port, bitter rounding of Amaro Lucano, red-fruit-pop of Grenadine, and pinch of Sumac makes this an iconic 2017 libation. Perfect to serve at a winter cocktail party...er enjoy after a long day of work. . cw

DECEMBER 2016/JANUARY 2017

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coming to a plate near you Interesting trends are emerging in the culinary world this year. The landscape is shifting with our palate, cravings, and ethics.

Here are seven emerging food trends to watch out for. by Theresa Cantafio

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FOUND FOOD

“Found food” is the act of maximizing a food waste stream. In this world where consumption is at an all time high, some companies are investing significant chump change (billions to be precise) in finding ways to reduce waste and increase sustainability—some are even solving overarching social justice issues along the way. Carole Widmayer, VP marketing at Coffee Flour™, refers to this as, “A triple bottom line: economy, environment, and nutrition.”

Keshir is a great example of a “found food”—it’s the discarded husk from the whole coffee cherry, a once massive waste from coffee processing. Chefs and food scientists are loving this new ingredient, because it doesn’t just aid global sustainability, it also contributes novel flavor—citrus top-notes, earthy sweetness, fermented sour cherry, smoked cacao, subtle tobacco, sherry cask scotch.

CALABRIAN CHILI

Dominant sriracha has become so commonplace, that it’s no longer viewed as a unique heat-contributing ingredient. The southern Italian ingredient, Calabrian chili paste, is expected to largely replace sriracha in many markets.

CLEAN LABEL MOVEMENT “Clean label” has built such strong momentum and cross-market frequency that it can’t be considered just a trend anymore. It’s a movement and expected to be a $180B global market by 2020. What does “clean label” exactly mean?

It’s a consumer demand for transparency and authenticity. Consumers have put their foot down; they don’t want artificial ingredients or synthetic chemicals in their food anymore.

They’ve requested a return to “real food” through natural ingredients that are familiar, simple and easy to recognize, understandable and pronounceable— exhibited via food labels.

DEMERARA SUGAR

These sparkly, translucent, crunchy sugar granules add nutty, toffee-like sweet character to beverages. Although “honey” and “agave” are still extremely common sweetener sources, you’ll start to see “demerara sugar” gaining popularity in uncommon cocktails, mocktails, and dessert menus.

CHESTNUTS

Gaining noteworthy attention from influential chefs in savory and sweet applications, Chestnuts are coming onto menus in interesting ways, such as: chestnut custards paired with maitake mushrooms, chestnut ravioli with black truffles and parmigiano reggiano, brown-butter chestnut financier with pumpkin seed brittle.

Hazelnut products have filled up retail shelves over the past several years, but we anticipate Nutella® (also known as gianduja or gianduia) and Nutella® knock-off ’s will take the back seat to make room for some chestnut SKU’s.

BITTERNESS AND THE AMERICAN PALATE You’ve

certainly seen this trend at high-end restaurants with the words “char,” “ash,” “burnt.” This flavor trend is particularly exciting for chefs and food industry professionals. The sentiment behind this trend demonstrates that the American palate is willing to accept bitterness in a whole new way—with the understanding that bitterness can round, amplify complexity and provide beautiful flavor depth to a dish.

There’s no longer an angry, visceral reaction to burnt toast, rather a childish curiosity and intrigue towards this “just try it” burnt-bamboozlement.

CULTURED DAIRY DESSERTS The Greek yogurt US

market share has increased from 1% in 2007 to 50% in 2015. So, naturally it makes sense when people think “cultured dairy” they often think yogurt. But there are so many other ways to incorporate thoughtful cultured dairy flavor in desserts: back-of-the-house fermentation, various sour creams, cultured butters, etc.

Cultured dairy can brighten and fill-in some serious flavor voids in heavy chocolate pastries and fruity desserts by adding a funky kick of tart, creamy tang. cw

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SOCIAL LIFE LUXEHOME 10TH ANNIVERSARY CHILL EVENT On Thursday, November 10, more than 2,500 guests flocked to the state-of-the-art LuxeHome boutiques and showrooms, located on the first floor of the iconic Merchandise Mart, to celebrate the tenth 1 anniversary of CHILL, an International Wine & Culinary Event. The dynamic event raised a record amount of over $225,000, which directly benefited The Lynn Sage Foundation, Saturday Place and the Respiratory Health Association. The evening offered culinary delights from more than 50 of Chicago’s top restaurants and tastings of more than 150 wines, spirits and beers from around the world.

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1. Latavia Johnson, Cheslea Harvey.

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2. Alisha Serras, Tony Mantuano, Nikki Serras.

3. Blair Loftspring, Patricia Logarakis, Erika Fletcher.

4. Kate Flaherty, Kim Rode, Tracey Biesterfeldt, Jen Cal.

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The 61st Annual Gold Coast Fashion Award show raised more than $1.1 Million to benefit patients at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago. All proceeds from the evening will be used to recruit a physicianscientist to lead the Molecular Oncology and Bioinformatics Program. Designer Michael De Paulo’s red-carpet inspired collection earned the Honorable Gold Coast Fashion Award. Michael De Paulo specializes in beautiful evening wear with an innovative edge, focusing his collection on sculptural silhouettes and geometric design.

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PHOTO CREDIT: JANICE TERRY.

61ST ANNUAL GOLD COAST FASHION AWARD SHOW 2

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1. Scott Sheridan, Tommy Sheridan, Co-Chair Kristina Nicolas, Co-Chair Schulyer Levin.

2. Aaron Brown, Monica Laronda and Marleta Reynolds.

3. Megan Boyd and Tehemina Richardson.

4 Dr. Diane Holms, Dr. Barbara Johnston, Dr. Connie Blade & Dr. Dori Kazdin.

5. Julie Lakonishok, Ceta Walters.

5 PHOTO CREDIT: ROBERT CARL.

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WBDCELEBRATE In celebration of its 30th anniversary, the Women’s Business Development Center (WBDC) honored women, minority, and veteran business owners; corporate and elected officials at an evening reception, WBDCelebrate, at Wintrust Grand Banking Hall, Chicago, on November 15. More than 400 guests enjoyed live music, including a performance by the Black Ensemble1 Theater. The WBDC has helped some 78,000 clients start and grow a business.

1. Francine Manilow, Sharon Avent. 2. Hedy M. Ratner and S. Carol Dougal. 3. Emilia DiMenco, Leslie Sawyer.

4. Honorees Pamela Jones, Caren Schweitzer. Kara Yokley, Michelle Vondrasek

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3RD ANNUAL WOMEN’S DREAM CONFERENCE

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On November 4, 2016, the 3rd Annual Women’s Dream Conference, hosted at Germania Place, brought together nearly 200 women for an afternoon of three engaging panel discussions featuring over fifteen female entrepreneurs and businesswomen. With networking and post-event cocktails, the conference connected, inspired and empowered.

Panelists Kathy Hart, Shruthi Reddy, Sara Fix, Tori Ulrich, and Angie Lee with host Andrea Metcalf. PHOTO CREDIT: SHELLY NIGEL

CHICAGO WOMAN ISSUE RELEASE PARTY On October 18, 2016, Chicago Woman celebrated the launch of the October/ November 2016 issue, in which fashion powerhouse Maria Pinto graced the cover. The event was held at Acebounce.

Glasses of wine clanked all around as 300+ friends and supporters of the magazine came out to for the evening.

As always, thank you to everyone who attended and those who continue to support our mission and vision.

1. Carolyn Leonard, Maria Pinto. 2. Lisa Gunderson, Rebecca Borges, Kendra Chaplin, Melissa Dondalski, Dr. Joanna Slusky. 3. Cristal Thomas, Dorri McWhorter, Jasmine Allen, Amy Jaeschke, Molly Silverman.

4. Featured designer Elena Bobysheva.

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CLOSING THOUGHTS

DON’T TELL ME TO SMILE

by Val Groth, Founder of the Ryan Banks Academy

LEFT: Photo of Val Groth referenced. ABOVE: South Loop mural by Brooklyn Artist Tatyana Fazlalizadeht, tlynnfaz.com.

I recently ran across this photo from a shoot last fall that I never posted online. I remember not sharing it publicly at the time because I didn’t like that I wasn’t smiling, but today when I ran across this photo, I saw it in a completely different light and that’s exactly why I DO want to post it. It reminded me of the amazing new mural in downtown Chicago (South Loop/Printers Row neighborhood) by Brooklyn artist Tatyana Fazlalizadeht who founded the Stop Telling Women to Smile campaign. It’s a movement that makes a hell of a lot of sense to all women but is a concept that many men still find perplexing (“what could be so wrong with telling someone to smile?”), so allow me to elaborate.

Here’s one great way of encapsulating what she calls a form of gender-based street harassment: “The sexualization behind telling women to smile is alarming. It makes women feel that we are only meant to be happy and pretty, and it’s a passive way to engage into an unwanted conversation.

Asking a woman to smile is a selfish act and it’s rarely in a caring tone; it’s condescending and

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it turns a simple gesture into something sexual.

Instead of asking a woman how she actually feels or being open minded to the idea she might not be interested, there are men that will berate a woman into doing something that she isn’t comfortable doing. That is unacceptable.”— Erica Harrison of the The Huffington Post.

This has been on my mind a lot in relation to Hillary Clinton and the judgments and critiques we heard against her based on personal characteristics she possessed (the ones that allowed her to be a powerful and effective leader), that made her appear unfeminine and “grating” to some, even though those same characteristics would have been accepted and applauded in her male counterpart.

I love smiling as much as the next person (or Buddy the Elf) but let’s shift the cultural dialogue around forcing women and girls into boxes that say we have to consistently present as pretty and happy at all times. We are humans, not Barbie dolls, thank you very much. Can you tell the election has me slightly riled up? cw

ffc.com/cw

JOANNE NEMEROVSKI CONSISTENTLY PRODUCING TOP RESULTS IN CHICAGO’S LUXURY MARKET

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550 N ST CLAIR ST #1903 | $865,000

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Thank you, chicago, for another great year!

Make your moving dreams a reality in 2017 - call Joanne (312) 720 - 4505 today!

Joanne Nemerovski 312.720.4505 • JoanneSellsChicago@gmail.com JoanneSellsChicago.com

experience • integrity • results © BHH Affiliates, LLC. An independently operated subsidiary of HomeServices of America, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, and a franchisee of BHH Affiliates,LLC. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices and the Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices symbol are registered service marks of HomeServices of America, Inc.® Equal Housing Opportunity. *HSF Affiliates LLC Operates Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, highest individual GCI, U.S. Midwest, 2014