North Shore Living Magazine

spring 2013 INAUGURAL ISSUE

tips for

garden success

& • • • •

Uncovering Dark Secrets of the North Shore Summer Camp: Finding the Right Fit Insights into Elder Care VIP Tennis & Swimming Giveaway Inside!

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Clients come to us for breathtaking landscapes—and keep coming back for unmatched personal service.

From lush, inviting plantings to stone patios and other outdoor living spaces, our landcape architects will work closely with you to create a truly extraordinary environment that reflects your individual taste and lifestyle. Let us help bring your vision to life.

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Staff CO-PUBLISHERS Rand E. Arons and Jeremy D. Forman Creative Director Fran Sherman

inaugural issue THOUGHTS ON OUR

Dear Friends and Neighbors, our Readers: Welcome to the inaugural issue of North Shore Living, the new home and lifestyle magazine created for those of us who live on Chicago’s north shore and in like-minded communities.

We both grew up and have spent our lives on the North Shore. We share the values, lifestyle and experiences that make us a community. Our vision for this publication is to serve community by providing content centering on the home, lifestyle and happiness of our readers, while including a narrow spectrum of vetted advertisers whose products and services enhance the North Shore living experience.

The goal of each quarterly issue is to produce an informative, educational and entertaining publication that offers value to your life and can be enjoyed at your leisure.

We thank you for welcoming us into your home and look forward to your comments, suggestions and contributions.

Rand and Jeremy

reader advisory board Burt Levy – Community and Industry Advisor John Colletti – Lincolnwood | Hal D’Orazio – Lake Forest Marianne Doan – Wilmette | Patty Erd – Evanston Heather Farnham – Northbrook | Ron Grais – Winnetka Lenny Innocenzi – Highwood | Randy Josephs – Deerfield Barry Meister – Lincolnshire | Jerry Roper – Barrington Tony Schor – Highland Park | Laur Szkatulski – Glenview Charlie Wachs – Long Grove

mission statement North Shore Living magazine is an exclusive publication dedicated to providing select north suburban households with content that informs, educates and entertains. Our magazine centers on the home, lifestyle and happiness of our readers while including a narrow spectrum of vetted advertisers whose products and services will enhance the North Shore experience.

www.NSLMagazine.com Publishers@BespokePublishingLLC.com

Printing Advisory Creative Printing Services Printing RR Donnelly Distribution Management Avala Marketing staff photographer Valerie Booth editor Alexa Wolson sales assistant Marcia Clark Special thanks to Todd Abrams and Tyler Travitz North Shore Living is published by Bespoke Publishing, LLC 1001 Green Bay Road, # 116 Winnetka, IL 60093 847.881.6150 BespokePublishingLLC.com North Shore Living is published 4 times per year and distributed to subscribers and selected households. Articles are selected to provide information related to home, lifestyle, health, family, community, fitness, career, travel,technology, food and dining and other areas of interest for our select readership.

We are very interested in your comments and suggestions with regard to content in this publication and/or future publications. We would like to hear from you.

Opinions expressed in articles and EdutorialsTM are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view or opinions of North Shore Living nor Bespoke Publishing, LLC. While every effort is made to assure accuracy, we are not responsible for how information found in North Shore Living is used.

All rights to the contents of this magazine are owned in full by North Shore Living and Bespoke Publishing, LLC. Reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. All submittal materials, including images, logos and text for advertising, editorial and EdutorialTM are assumed to be the property of the provider and North Shore Living and Bespoke Publishing, LLC does not take responsibility for unintentional copyright infringement. North Shore Living and Bespoke Publishing, LLC has the right to refuse advertising deemed inappropriate for this publication.

North Shore Living accepts freelance contributions, however, there is no guarantee that unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or graphics will be either published or returned.

Circulation is verified by U.S. Postal receipts.

Subscription Information

Annual subscriptions can be obtained for $10 per year. For subscription information, please e-mail info@BespokePublishingLLC.com.

contents

volu m e 1 i s s u e 1 IN AUG UR AL ISS U E

ON THE COVER 14 22 40 46

Summer Camp: Find the Right Fit Tips for Garden Success!

Dark Pasts of Market Square and Plaza del Lago Special Section on Elder Care

H OME 06 08 10 18 20 28 34 36 42 44 52 53 54 58

Custom Dream Home: it's in the details Fine Antique Repair and Restoration Don't Be Left in the Dark!

Turning Your Basement Into a Dream Space Amazing Sunrooms What's New in Home and Lifestyle Technology Toughen Up Your Home's Exterior Thinking of Remodeling?

Three Generations of Customer Service Painting Outside the Lines Aging in the Home You Love Smart Window Treatments Restoring Natural Beauty Save $300 or More on Your Energy Bill

L IFESTYLE 24 25 32 51 56

Philanthropy Through Flowers Kicking Up Your Spring Salad Build a Bicycle To Reflect Your Personality Indoor Air Quality and Your Health Live Life Balanced

22 14 40 F AMILY 30 Solving the Mystery of Chronic Conditions 41 When Your Child Needs Extra Help in School 50 Planning‌to Help Your family

C OMMUNITY 12 Getting Out in Downtown Highland Park 26 Lessons in Small Business Lending 37 North Shore Dog Paradise

I t ’ s All in the

D

An Eye

for

Detail Brings Form and Function to Historically Inspired New Homes

iscerning homeowners and those house hunting have an extensive list of must-haves in their dream home. While square footage and number of bedrooms make a space a “house,” it’s the details that make it a “home.”

As the housing market improves, homebuyers continue to face challenges with lower than usual home inventory.

Furthermore, many potential buyers are finding that homes that are on the market do not offer the class and sophistication of the more historically inspired homes on the North Shore.

North Shore Builders, a home builder based in Winnetka, has seen a rise in the number of people searching for land to build a new home after being disappointed in their search of existing homes. “We recognize the importance of not only finding the right piece of property in the best neighborhood, but also the importance of design details,” explains Therese Schaefer, sales manager of North Shore Builders. “Families on the North Shore pay attention to design details and when they can’t find the home of their dreams; they turn to us for options.”

North Shore Builders’ homes are built

6

Det ails

with the tastes and lifestyles of today’s busy families in mind. They report that kitchens, bathrooms and living spaces always get the greatest attention in the design process as these rooms typically serve as the most utilized space in the home.

However, other details often never thought of by the general home-buying community are addressed in custombuilt homes as well. Schaefer says, “It’s amazing how in a conversation with a new client we can develop both functional and aesthetic ways to make their home so much more enjoyable. For instance, we created a custom built-in around the fireplace in a family room specifically for the clients’ Asian collectibles, while the built-in cubbies in the mud room where detailed to fit the entire family’s winter wear, backpacks and brief cases – not to mention a cell phone charging station for all.”

While a discerning palette and clear vision drives some house hunters to custom build their dream home, environmental factors and home value also plays a part.

Historically inspired new homes built by companies such as North Shore Builders use modern materials to enhance the home’s energy efficiency and

North Shore living magazine | inaugural issue

meet “green” standards. With environmental aspects becoming more and more important to home owners, the “green” factor not only makes the home owner feel good, but it also improves the value.

For more information about custombuilt homes by North Shore Builders or to see a list of their homes slated for delivery this summer and fall, visit www.nsbgreen.com.

To learn about selecting home-sites or to schedule a consultation, contact Therese Schaefer at 847.220.6741, or tschaefer@nsbgreen.com.

North Shore Home Financing Let us be your trusted mortgage professional for life.

Whether this is your first home, next home, second home, or a refinance we are fully dedicated to maintaining a flexible and innovative product line to help you meet your full financial potential. We work with over 20 different lenders to find you the loan program that works best for your needs and offer competitive rates. You can rest assured that your loan package will be securely processed as we underwrite and fund most of our loans in-house.

More Great Benefits: Lock & Shop: Lock in today’s low rate without a property selected. Take up to 90 days to shop for your house.

Rate Lock Insurance: Should the sales contract fall through—Transfer your rate to the next property of similar value.

Cathy L Schneider 1st Advantage Mortgage A Draper & Kramer Company 2 Northfield Plaza, Suite 320 Northfield, IL 60093 D. 847.239.7830 C. 847.363.7321 F. 630.261.3829 cathy@theschneiderteam.com

Numerous Loan Options: Fixed Rate, Adjustable Rate, FHA, VA, Interest Only, Condos, Jumbos, HARP Refinances, and more!

NMLS# 220197

Jim Rubel

Senior Vice President 1st Advantage Mortgage A Draper & Kramer Company 2 Northfield Plaza, Suite 320 Northfield, IL 60093 Office 847.239.7825 Cell 847.502.6819 Fax 630.261.3841 jim@jimrubel.com www.jimrubel.com NMLS# 222147

EQUAL HOUSING LENDER Cathy Schneider (NMLS: 220197) and Jim Rubel (NMLS: 222147) are agents of Draper and Kramer Mortgage Corp. dba 1st Advantage Mortgage an Illinois Residential Mortgage Licensee (NMLS:2551) located at 701 E. 22nd St. Suite 125, Lombard, IL 60148. Telephone 630-376-2100. Regulated by IDFPR, 122 S Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60603. Telephone 312-793-3000. 01159-01.

From Old World Craftsman to Fine Antiques Repair

Modern Day Techniques

F

ilip Marona is an old world European craftsman. He’s an antique furniture repair and restoration expert whose journey started nearly 20 years ago with the famous Robert Benveniste and has taken him from his native Poland, to France, to his current workshop in the historic Carson Pierre Scott warehouse building located on the South Branch of the Chicago River.

In 1994 Marona began working as an apprentice under Robert Benveniste. Benveniste made a name for himself in both art and science; devoting the first half of his professional life to biochemistry and the second half to his love of French antiques. It was in Benveniste’s workshop that a young Marona was given the chance to learn the fine art of furniture restoration from several older, master craftsmen. Marona blossomed in his craft and after years of proving himself, was asked to supervise the workshop. He took a greater role in developing the restoration business while also taking frequent trips to purchase and

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and

Restoration

sell fine antiques. After Robert Benveniste’s unexpected death in 2001, Marona purchased the business from his mentor’s estate with the support of the Benveniste family.

Since arriving in Chicago, Marona has established a thriving business taking repair and restoration projects of all sizes from private homes, museums, insurance claims, architects and designers, while also finding the time to regularly exhibit in a number of Chicago, North Shore and national antique shows. Additionally, he spends one week each year at the vaunted Winterthur Museum in Delaware to learn and practice advanced conservation techniques.

Filip Marona is the owner of Ile de France Restoration Guild. To discuss a repair or restoration project, visit www.MaronaAntiques.com or contact Filip at 773.727.1699 or MaronaFilip@comcast.net.

EXHIBITING AT THE CHICAGO BOTANIC GARDEN ANTIQUES AND GARDEN FAIR APRIL 19-21 2013, BOOTH 614

FINNEGAN GALLERY FINE GARDEN AND ARCHITECTURAL ANTIQUES

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS • TEL. 312.738.9747

www.finnegangallery.com

Spring And Summer Are Coming—

Don’t Be Left In The Dark With

increasingly volatile weather events, extended power outages threaten the North Shore.

Y

ou may remember last summer’s extended power outage. Thousands of North Shore families waited days, some more than a week, for power to be restored. Air conditioners sat idle, food spoiled in warm refrigerators and basements flooded due to stalled sump pumps.

The year before, the North Shore sat in the dark on at least two other occasions.

In July 2011, a summer storm knocked out power to 280,000 homes in the northern suburbs. In September, 1,400 Highland Park residents lost power again, increasing residents’ frustration.

These increasingly volatile weather events, paired with an overburdened and outdated power grid, make outages throughout the year inevitable. As 108 million viewers saw this past February, even the biggest professional football game of the year is not immune. It can happen anywhere, at any time.

When a power outage lasts a few minutes, it’s an inconvenience. When it

10

stretches to several hours, it’s annoying. If the outage stretches for days, it becomes quite costly and potentially dangerous.

Disabled security systems, non-functional medical equipment, dead cell phones and the inability to conduct business or do school work are real concerns. Losing power to your home for an extended period of time can have major impacts on your income, peace of mind, or even the survival of a loved one.

To avoid these issues, many North Shore homeowners have taken matters

North Shore living magazine | inaugural issue

into their own hands by having an automatic standby generator installed. These luxury appliances look similar to a large air conditioning unit, blending into the background of your home’s exterior. They are reliable, they are safe, they are quiet, and they are surprisingly affordable.

Automatic standby generators provide power by using the same natural gas line already available at your home and are always waiting, always watching – in the event that the power goes out, the generator kicks in automatically within twenty

seconds, keeping critical aspects of your home functioning smoothly.

They are also convenient.

If you happen to be out when the power fails, your home is still protected. Your security system remains operational.

Your medications remain refrigerated. Your garage door still opens when you arrive home. And thanks to remote monitoring capabilities, your system can be observed and managed, if necessary, by a system expert miles away.

While we all hope to avoid losing power this year, there is only one way homeowners can guarantee it. A good resource to turn to for assistance is Get Power Now! Owner and licensed electrician Steve Kruzich specializes in automatic standby generators and has 10 years experience installing every major brand, including industry leader Generac®, throughout the Chicagoland area.

Contact Steve at 630.742.4263, or visit his website at www.GetPowerNow.com.

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11

Enjoy the Stroll in Downtown

by Jessica Weglarz

Highland Park

Walk

our unrivaled Promenade on the North Shore with more than boutique retail shops, restaurants, salons and spas

W

e are all looking forward to spring – it cannot come soon enough.

Once the snow clears and flowers begin to bloom, it’s time to get out of the house and enjoy all that our communities have to offer. As the Executive Director of the Downtown Highland Park Alliance, I would like to invite you to visit Downtown Highland Park this spring to enjoy our special events such as Restaurant Week and Fitness Month while also having a unique, personalized shopping experience that’s unparalleled on the North Shore. Downtown Highland Park offers an unrivaled “boutique” atmosphere that allows you to stroll throughout our shopping district and enjoy more than 130 retail shops, restaurants, salons and spas.

Many major Metropolitan areas celebrate their culinary scene with Chef Weekends and Restaurant Weeks. Highland Park also houses a vibrant and diverse restaurant scene and invites you to kick-off spring by venturing out and trying someplace new during Highland Park’s second annual Restaurant Week. Beginning Thursday April 18 and continuing through Sunday, April 28, explore and enjoy the delicious entrees and distinctive treats that make Highland Park a destination for foodies on the North Shore. Whether you’re craving a martini ‘neat’ or something sweet, 30+ participating restaurants will be offering tasting menus, unique bites and specials throughout Restaurant Week.

After indulging in your favorite 12

culinary delights, get your body and mind in shape for summer during Fitness Month in Downtown Highland Park. Coinciding with National fitness month, participating gyms and studios will be offering free classes and seminars throughout the entire month of May. You will not want to miss this terrific opportunity to get out and try some of the hottest and most talkedabout fitness classes on the North Shore, for free!

If you are not too tired after your workout, partake in some shopping for spring wears and accessories. Whether you’re searching for a personal luxury item or the perfect gift for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day or graduation, Downtown Highland Park is your one-stopshop with countless stores, restaurants and amenities sure to satisfy. Offering gifts as unique as your loved one, our retailers have something for everyone, whether their interests include cooking, fashion, sports, salon services, fitness or crafts.

Looking for an activity the whole family can enjoy?

Celebrate the Dog Days of Summer in Downtown Highland Park as we welcome twenty, ‘Big Dogs’ by artist Dale Rogers to our central business district. Consisting of twenty, 8 foot high by 10 foot long cor-ten steel “American Dog”

North Shore living magazine | inaugural issue

130

sculptures, this one-of-a-kind traveling exhibit will make its home in Downtown Highland Park throughout the month of July. Come out and attend one of the numerous special events, fundraisers and doggy socials which will be held in the ‘Big Dogs’ honor!

For more information on special events and promotions in Downtown Highland Park, visit downtownhp.com and sign up for our newsletter.

Jessica Weglarz is Executive Director of the The Downtown Highland Park Alliance, a public-private partnership of the Highland Park CBD Property Owners Association, the City of Highland Park and the Highland Park Chamber of Commerce. The Alliance was founded in 2008 to enhance the economic vitality of Downtown Highland Park. The operations and promotions of the Alliance are funded by a Special Service Area commercial property tax currently authorized through 2013.

A Blueprint

for

Choosing

the

best

p am

c r e m

m u s

F

or decades, North Shore parents have sent their children to summer camps for a variety of reasons. Some want their kids to gain the confidence of being away from home and learn self-reliance in a new situation. While other parents may want them to receive skillbuilding instruction in horseback riding or water-skiing - things they don’t usually experience in their everyday lives. However, the true benefit of going away from home surpasses even the best of these intentions.

Camp provides a positive opportunity for growth that should not be underestimated. It can be an integral part of a child’s educational and social development. It certainly is not a vacation in the strictest sense of the word. Parents must realize that there is more to the camp experience than learn14

ing how to slalom ski or cantor around a ring. Kids learn to challenge themselves on levels that they have never previously explored.

For the first time, they are forced to leave their secure surroundings. They must deal with campmates that may have different values or behaviors than they find

North Shore living magazine | inaugural issue

acceptable. They must learn to negotiate and resolve conflict, deal with stress in a socially acceptable manner and learn to include instead of exclude. They must learn to be responsible for themselves and others. In essence, they learn about a stronger sense of self. Camp provides the background

tein ens

Ros aith f y b

for this growth in a safe and controlled environment.

Here are some ways to gather information about good summer programs for your child: • Talk to other children and parents. Referrals from other families with camp experience are a great way to get the real scoop.

Remember it is sometimes difficult to recognize when your child may need a different program than his or her best buddy.

• Search the Internet. The Internet is full of camp “Yellow Pages” that offer

(continued on page 56)

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15

(continued from page 54)

links to a variety of camp websites.

• Attend a camp fair. There are typically several camp fairs held in the Chicago metropolitan area well prior to the summer camp season.

• Talk to camp directors.

Each director should have a clear sense of what children should gain from their experiences and how to go about teaching these skills. If the director cannot adequately answer your questions about camp philosophy, home communication or supervision, then it is probably not the right camp for you.

Whichever method you choose, the following considerations should be given to the process:

All Camps are not created equal.

The Right Program can make or break your Child’s Summer Experience Let us help you make the Right Choice!

A Free Expert Consulting Service Since 1971

Faith Rosenstein 312-909-1009 Faith@tipsontripsandcamps.com

16

North Shore living magazine | inaugural issue

• Prepare for camp together. This is a decision that should be made with the child and the guidance of the family. Ask yourself some questions such as, what is my child ready for and should they build on existing strengths and interests or be exposed to something new? The child should feel free to discuss the general parameters that would make his/her summer successful. Evaluate your child’s needs as well as your own. Talk over his/her interests; be open to the unexpected.

• Do not superimpose parental preferences into the equation.

For example, a mom may want a warm and fuzzy atmosphere but the child may be intensely competitive and therefore not thrive in this environment. The parent also may want to re-create their own summer camp experience. Although this is tempting to do given the success many of us have had, it is a dangerous area to tread. What works for one may not work for another.

• Be leery of sending your child to camp with a good friend. What initially may seem to provide a safety net, and your child will have a friend so they don’t have to worry about being alone, can be dangerous. All too often, one of the pair has a difficult time. The other child then feels responsible for the happiness of his/her friend. This can be extremely burdensome. Additionally, a friend can act as a barrier to your child making new friends – the urgency is just not there.

Camp can be the experience of a lifetime. I encourage you to explore the options available for your children. There are programs that meet the everyone's needs. The camp experience is not one of mere crafts and sports but of social growth, development and opportunity that cannot be replicated elsewhere. Happy camping!

Faith Rosenstein is the Midwest consultant for Tips on Trips and Camps.

If you would like a free consultation, contact Faith at 312.909.1909 or Faith@ TipsonTripsandCamps. com.

nslmagazine.com | North Shore living magazine

17

from to

storage dream

room room

Mining

your underground treasure

I

n many homes, basements are often used as little more than storage or utility spaces. However, below the surface of many houses are beautiful, functional spaces just waiting to be discovered.

Today, savvy homeowners are finishing and expanding their basements, converting rooms into useful extensions of their upstairs living areas. “From wine tasting rooms to ‘man caves,’ today’s basement conversions are limited only by the homeowner’s imagination,” reports Denis Buch, co-owner of Boone Creek Cabinet Company.

Specializing in basement conversions, Denis and his wife Michele have more than 38 years of home remodeling experience and have built many beautiful, creative spaces. “Whether it’s a place to explore a personal hobby or a unique living area to entertain family and friends, today’s basement conversions are all about creating a place of adventure in your own home,” explains Michele.

The Buchs have helped hundreds of homeowners convert their basements into spectacular spaces. Some of their favorites include a home in Evanston where they built a “man cave” complete with game tables, wet bar and jumbo televisions.

They also worked with a family in Libertyville to create a wine tasting room with seating for 20 that features custom cabinets

18

North Shore living magazine | inaugural issue

for wine storage and display.

Another standout is a Long Grove home where the Buchs constructed a lower-level apartment with full bathroom, kitchen and home office. “Of course, we have also built several spacious home gyms, media rooms and kids’ playrooms,” Denis notes.

While the Buchs may have an eye for basement conversion and design, many people struggle with conceptualizing the many available conversion possibilities. For these individuals, Denis and Michele suggest visiting www.Houzz.com and searching printable images to see a tangible vision of your dream basement and also to spark new ideas.

For others, exploring your space with a knowledgeable professional may be more beneficial to clarify your thoughts and plan your creative remodel. Experts like the Buchs can steer you in the right direction and help you figure out exactly what will work for your space. In either case, start by collecting your wish list and assembling your ideas into plans.

With some help from the pros, it’s easy to make your basement more functional, fabulous or fun to best fit you and your family.

To learn more about Boone Creek Cabinet Company, visit their showroom located at 764 Ridgeview Dr in McHenry, or contact Denis Buch for a complimentary consultation at 815.385.8414 or denis@boonecreekcabinet.com.

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nslmagazine.com | North Shore living magazine

19

Room With A

View Y our family and your home go hand-in-hand as two of the most important and valuable things in your life. In today’s fast-paced world, families look for ways to slow things down and spend quality time with each other. However, finding the time and finding the space to gather together present two different challenges.

One way that many homeowners are addressing the challenge of space is by adding a Four Seasons Sunroom.

Historically, home additions have been the traditional option when deciding to add space. However, rather than a standard addition, more and more North Shore homeowners are turning to Four Seasons Sunroom. Sunrooms offer a bright, relaxing, therapeutic environment and a unique component to any home. Four Seasons Sunrooms are also being utilized in new, creative ways.

When entertaining, where do most people hang out?

The kitchen of course! A sunroom can be built as an extension of the kitchen, whether used to add seating for holiday dinners, hosting afternoon lunch with

20

friends, or gathering the family for a Sunday morning brunch. Sunrooms are also often used to expand

North Shore living magazine | inaugural issue

Sunrooms

offer new ways to expand the home and gather the family

the home by adding space to the family room or as an extension of an outside deck or patio. Some homeowners

have even installed sunrooms as inhome greenhouses.

Sunrooms are comprised primarily of glass, which lends to tremendous views.

Whether you like sitting and enjoying a sunny day, watching a beautiful snowfall or being mesmerized by a summer storm, a sunroom can be enjoyed by all and often becomes the favorite, most used room in the house.

However, because of the sunroom’s glass structure, using the proper materials during the building process is extremely important.

Today, there are very sophisticated materials such as ConservaGlass Select that block harmful sunrays, insulate against hot or cold weather and have the strength to withstand major impact from any disaster on the outside…or mishap from the inside.

To learn more about how to expand your home to fit the needs of your family and to receive your own personal brochure, call Creative Concepts Home Improvements at 847.428.7800 or visit their website at www.amazingsunrooms.com.

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Water Attractions

Light Attractions

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s

garden success tips for

by Sara Gasbarra

Some of my fondest childhood memories are of summers spent gardening with my Italian-born father. We grew edibles like Sylvetta arugula, Melrose peppers, heirloom tomatoes and unique varieties of basil, which later became ingredients in special family meals.

To ensure you have a bountiful garden this year, or to get started with your first time planting, follow my tips for garden success!

22

North Shore living magazine | inaugural issue

Select the Right Location: The first task is to select the location of your garden plot – an ideal space gets six-to-eight hours of full sun each day. When walking your backyard looking for that perfect site, remember that what looks like a sunny corner now, might be full shade when the trees are lush in mid summer. Seek out a spot with level ground and avoid areas of the yard that retain water and are “marshy” – good drainage and run off is important.

Irrigation: During the height of the season, your garden may need to be irrigated twice daily. For those gardeners who may find keeping up with the watering schedule a bit of a challenge, think about installing a simple drip-line irrigation system run on a battery operated timer. California-based Dripworks (www.dripworks. com) is a great resource for supplies and online tutorials.

Soil Health: Now that you’ve selected the right location, it’s time to select the proper soil – pref-

erably a high-quality soil/ compost mix. For smaller spaces, you can purchase convenient bagged soil and for larger areas, you can coordinate a bulk soil drop off. Buy the Yard (www.buytheyardinc.com) in Evanston and DK Organics (www.dkorganics.com) in Lake Bluff have an excellent product and can provide a bulk drop to your home. For an important boost to your soil, add nutrients and active microorganisms like earthworm castings or bat guano – these products go a long way, and you only need a small amount. Find them online at Chicago-based Brew & Grow (www.brewandgrow.com).

Fencing: Families aren’t the only ones who love to eat from the garden – so do the bunnies and deer in your neighborhood. To protect your crops, gardeners should install a barrier fence along the perimeter. For deer-proof fencing, Benners Gardens (www.bennersgardens.com) has easy to install eight-foottall fencing kits available online. If rabbits are the only concern, a simple T-post fence can be installed with

materials sourced from your local hardware store. When building the fence, always remember to dig a six-inch trench around the perimeter of the garden and bury the fencing to prevent burrowing critters from feasting on your veggies.

Plant and Seed Selection: It’s time to purchase plants, and the largest variety and healthiest plants can often be found at your local farmer’s market. Another excellent resource for plants is Anton’s Greenhouse (www. antonsgreenhouses.com) in Evanston, which offers a spectacular variety of edible starts as well as an impressive selection of annual and perennial flowers.

Garden Favorites: Selecting the crops you’d like to grow can prove challenging and for first-time gardeners, perusing your collection of seed catalogs can be overwhelming. A good rule of thumb is to grow easy, common edibles that are high yielders and select only one or two challenging, risky crops.

A native of the North Shore, Sara Gasbarra is the founder/owner and “lead garden girl” for Verdura; a full-service garden design company that cultivates edible gardens for Chicago-area restaurants, bars and hotels.

Her work has been featured in a variety of media outlets including Zagat, Chicago Sun Times, Chicago Magazine, Chicago Parent, TimeOut Chicago and others.

For more gardening tips and to find a list of vendors approved by Ms. Gasbarra, visit www.NSLMagazine. com/garden.

nslmagazine.com | North Shore living magazine

23

Philanthropy through

U

rbanMeadows looks like any other flower shop at first glance – beautiful arrangements, fragrant lilies, ready-to-grab bouquets by the door. High-quality arrangements are sent out each week to brighten corporate offices, celebrate anniversaries, or decorate large weddings and events.

But UrbanMeadows is not simply a flower shop – it’s one of a growing number of social enterprises that exist across Chicagoland and beyond. Social enterprises use commercial strategies for social good, and every day, UrbanMeadows is accomplishing that goal.

Founded by Thresholds, Illinois’ largest community mental health agency, UrbanMeadows was originally a place for Thresholds’ clients to gain valuable work experience while also enjoying the proven benefits of horticulture therapy. Employment is many times the single most effective treatment for mental illness, providing not only economic independence, but self-worth, direction and dignity.

Today, UrbanMeadows provides the highest quality floral services to customers in Chicago and the suburbs, ranging from small bouquets to full event floral services. With a personal touch and wide range of services, UrbanMeadows offers customers the added benefit of having their dollars support Thresholds’ ground-breaking work for those with severe mental illness. Thresholds assists thousands of people each year who are living with a severe mental illness. From homeless outreach to supported housing, Thresholds’ wide range of community-based services allows clients to live independent, productive lives in their communities.

“UrbanMeadows’ customers love that they’re helping a great cause, but they wouldn’t keep coming back if our

product was not excellent. We take pride in providing top-notch floral arrangements, and customers certainly enjoy the bonus of supporting a social enterprise,” says Mark Ishaug, CEO of Thresholds.

“Choosing UrbanMeadows is an act of charity, but it’s much more than that – our goal is to always exceed the customer’s expectations with quality, value and professional service.”

UrbanMeadows currently operates in a downtown space at 120 South LaSalle St. They will expand in January 2014, with a new storefront in Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood at the new Fred & Pamela Buffet Place. Online orders at www. urbanmeadows.org can be delivered nation-wide.

Flowers

24

North Shore living magazine | inaugural issue

UrbanMeadows services include: • Seasonal and Fresh Floral Arrangements • Floral Subscriptions and House Accounts • Reception and Lobby Arrangements • Wedding and Corporate Event Flowers • Sympathy and Memorial Flowers www.urbanmeadows.org • Flowering Plants and 120 South LaSalle Street Unique Planters Chicago, IL 60603 • Gift Baskets for Any Toll Free: 866.632.3797 Occasion Local: 312.377.3993

Kale Salad with pine nuts & currants D

ining alfresco is one of life's great pleasures, especially when the air is balmy, the breeze mild and the company pleasant.

Now that Spring is upon us, its time to clean your patio, buy tickets for Ravinia and set aside some of your favorite recipes for dining outdoors.

One North Shore Favorite is a healthy blend of sweet and savory that’s easy to make and a pleasure to serve.

What You'll need • • • • • • • •

1/2 lb fresh kale 2 tbs black currants 1 1/2 tbs balsamic vinegar 1 1/2 tbs rice wine vinegar 3 tbs honey• 2 tbs extra virgin olive oil 2 tbs pine nuts, toasted 2 tbs parmesan cheese salt & pepper to taste

preparation Whisk balsamic vinegar, rice wine vinegar, honey and olive oil in a large mixing bowl. Wash and chop the kale into larger pieces. Add chopped kale, pine nuts & parmesan cheese to dressing. Season with salt & pepper to taste.

For additional recipes, please visit: www.foodstuffs.com or come explore other specialty items at any one of the Foodstuffs locations

glenview

lake forest

evanston

glencoe nslmagazine.com | North Shore living magazine

25

Lessons In

Small Business Lending How I Found Financial Support to Grow my Business

by Matthew Walker

I

own one of the few businesses that benefitted from the housing crisis. In 2008, my friend and I started a company that serviced foreclosed properties called Property Cleanout Services, Inc. As the economy slowed, our business accelerated.

In our first year, we developed our two-man do-it-yourself operation into a real business with a fleet of vehicles and a full payroll of employees. We wanted to keep growing and needed assistance to finance that growth.

We decided to look into establishing a line of credit with a bank that would allow us to maintain our operation when we had gaps in cash flow. This revolving credit would be a great resource that we could rely on as needed, without putting us into immediate debt.

Our first stop was a large national bank headquartered in New York. We were handed an application to fill out, which the bank would then send to New York for approval.

Our second stop was to North Shore Community Bank, a community bank that’s part of Wintrust Financial’s family of local banks in the Chicagoland area and southern Wisconsin. There, a banker sat down with us to learn more about our business. She also helped us complete the application before submit-

26

ting it to be reviewed locally.

Our experiences at each bank were very different. Before meeting with North Shore, I didn’t think a community bank could provide the same services of the big banks. But I quickly learned that’s not the case. Not only did North Shore Community Bank provide the financial solution we needed, they also provided a much higher level of customer service, taking the time to get to know me and my business.

Nine weeks later, the big bank we applied to finally gave us the good news…

We were approved for a $30,000 line of credit as long as we pledged $30,000 of cash as collateral. Did you have to read that sentence twice? So did I. The bank actually offered to loan me my own

North Shore living magazine | inaugural issue

money and charge me interest!

By then, we had already made the decision to work with North Shore Community Bank. North Shore provided better customer service, processed our application faster and approved us for a larger line of credit based on our existing business assets.

For information about North Shore Community Bank’s business accounts, loans and lines of credit, please contact Jolie Horen at 847.251.4519. For more information about other Wintrust Community Banks, please visit www. wintrust.com.

North Shore Community Bank & Trust Company is a Member FDIC and Equal Housing Lender.

Enter to Win! Midtown Athletic Club Logo Basics Logo C olor U sa ge

Complete a brief survey for your chance to win a one month Family VIP Guest Experience at the Midtown Athletic Club in Bannockburn. Enjoy Complimentary tennis, swimming, fitness and more. Just in time for summer!

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Log on to www.NSLMagazine. com/VIP and tell us what you think R ev er sof e o u our t o f M i dmagazine. to w n O r an g e

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LogoEntry Color period Formulasbegins at on 4/1/13 and ends at 11:59 p.m. CDT on 5/14/13. Open to legal residents of Illinois who are at least No purchase necessary to enter or win.

18 years of age. To enter, go to www.NSLMagazine.com/VIP and complete the survey. Limit one entry per household. All federal, state and local laws apply. Void where IN T CREEN prohibited. One winner will receive a onePRmonth VIP family guest membership at the Midtown Athletic Club in Bannockburn (ARV: $809).SMembership and club restrictions apply. Odds of winning depends on the number of entries received. For full rules visit www.NSLMagazine.com/VIP-Rules. Sponsored by Bespoke Publishing LLC., 1001 Green Bay Rd., Suite 116, Winnetka, IL 60093.

nslmagazine.com | North Shore living magazine

27

Upgrades, Must-Haves and

by David Welles

What You Might Be Missing

Expert David Welles

talks about today’s latest and greatest home and lifestyle technology

J

ames Bond may have had cool cars, great suits and of course those bond girls, but I was always fascinated by his gadgets. From the first radio-enabled wristwatch to the more recent (and less popular) bagpipe-flamethrower, Bond movies were always so imaginative in coming up with creative new technologies.

However, in the latest film, there was a very apparent lack of gadgetry. Maybe that was by design, or maybe it’s just getting harder and harder to imagine new technology that doesn’t already exist. These days, seeing a phone that can remotely turn on the music, lower the lights and start a fire in the fireplace is no longer a feat of movie magic — it actually exists.

But far more practical technology to enhance your home and lifestyle exists as well. Record and watch TV from your iPad. Monitor your security system and view your cameras from any Internet-enabled device. Turn on the exterior lights to welcome guests with the touch of your smart phone. Every home has the ability to host these innovative features and every person has the ability to use them.

Other great devices people are falling in love with are baby monitoring systems that allow parents to view and hear everything from their smartphone or laptop. It's also a great system for grandparents who want a chance to peek in on their grandchildren and form a connection even if they live thousands of miles away.

Gone are the days of complicated set-ups and handwritten notes reminding you how to use the remote control. Today’s

28

North Shore living magazine | inaugural issue

technology has been streamlined to allow for simple and intuitive use. Now, with the right set-up, just one button on the remote can turn on the TV, dim the lights to a comfortable “movie watching” mode and adjust the temperature in the upstairs bedrooms where you won't be for a few more hours.

Furthermore, installation is a breeze. Many of these devices can be installed using the existing wiring in your home or using no wires at all. Once installed, experienced technicians will work with you to tailor your set-up for easy use and custom functionality — making them even easier to use than a bagpipe-flamethrower.

The following page contains cutting-edge technologies that are favorites of mine and find a more realistic use among North Shore homeowners.

David Welles is the owner and founder of Tunnel Vision Technology — a home and lifestyle technology company. Tunnel Vision Technology specializes in the sales and installation of home automation, lighting & climate control, automated door locks, interior & exterior home security surveillance, home theaters and distributed audio and video. Mr. Welles is considered an expert in his field and has worked on projects ranging in size from entire city skyscrapers to single-family suburban homes.

For more information on these devices and more, contact David Welles and his company at 847.220.6743 or info@tvti. com.

Coded Door Locks: Want to know when your kids get home safely from school? The locks text you that they’ve arrived. Sick of waiting up to make sure they get home by curfew?

Have your bedroom light turn on if they’re late. Coded door locks are a parent’s new best friend.

Energy Monitoring:

Energy monitoring takes green technology to the next level, communicating with your house to track and report energy usage. Use this data to lower energy costs and reduce your carbon footprint.

Lighting Control/Climate Control: Turn off unused lights without leaving your couch, light up the backyard without leaving the party or create custom pre-sets to help set the mood for dinner, movies, mornings or date nights. You can even upgrade your thermostat with intelligent climate control to have inside temperatures adjust based on outside weather.

Control 4: Installing Control 4 is like giving your house a brain. Tie all of your home’s technology together with one simple and easy device. Lighting control, whole-house audio distribution or full home automation, Control 4 has a low entry level pricing and gives homeowners a foundation to customize at their own pace.

Installation of these devices usually takes only a few hours. Learning to use them takes only a few minutes.

The joy they bring on a daily basis is immeasurable. nslmagazine.com | North Shore living magazine

29

Functional Medicine Solving

M

the

Mystery

of

illions of Americans are plagued each year by chronic conditions such as headaches and migraines, diabetes, thyroid disorders, peripheral neuropathy, fibromyalgia, IBS, Crohn's Disease and GI disturbances.

Patients who suffer from these or similar issues are often directed to address their condition with a quick fix – attempting to find relief through prescription medication or long, drawn-out processes intended to add comfort to the condition rather than addressing a solution.

Most people ignore the fact that the human body is selfsustaining and self-healing. Dr Kim Martin of North Shore Health Solutions explains, “The body, in essence, is completely controlled by the brain through its connection via the spinal cord and the vast networks of nerves that make up the

Your Chronic Condition body. When this system is not functioning at its peak, the overall performance of the human body is lacking.�

Dr. Martin is a Northbrook chiropractor and considered an expert in the field of chronic conditions and functional medicine. In the world of functional medicine, drugs and medicine are not utilized as a form of treating a patient; whereas supplementation and nutrition are almost always a part of the bigger picture. While it's often perceived that a chiropractor is solely here to treat back and neck pain, this is simply a small piece of what the profession is actually capable of handling. For instance, Dr. Martin completes a full evaluation upon meeting each new patient to identify the root cause of their chronic condition and offer solutions to the patient.

Dr. Martin's treatments start with a review of systems and health history, complete blood work, and an exam of the structural, neurologic and metabolic pieces of the puzzle that makes up the whole person. It is only then, after all of these components are complete, that she is able to create an individualized treatment plan for nutrition and any other therapies needed for her patients. "You cannot treat just one part of your body and make yourself whole again" says Dr. Martin.

Dr. Kim Martin BS, D.C, F.A.S.A., B.C.I.M. is board certified in integrative medicine, a certified gluten practitioner, and a member of American Functional Neurology Institute. For more information or to ask Dr. Martin a question, contact her at: 847.715.9060 or visit: www.

NorthShoreHealthSolutions. com

30

North Shore living magazine | inaugural issue

Park District of Highland Park’s

Sunset Valley Golf Course A welcoming North Shore Golf Destination Mon-Thu 18 holes 9 holes Twilight Senior (age 65 & up) Junior Fri-Sun & Holidays 18 holes 18 holes Twilight

$41/45 $30/33

Golf Car Fees: 18 holes: Senior (Mon-Thu only) 9 holes: Senior (Mon-Thu only)

$17/person $14/person $12/person $10/person

$36/38 $24/27 $24/27 $27/29 $20

Open all year : 5:30am-dusk, weather permitting Reserve your tee time today: www.SunsetValleyGolfCourse.org • 847.432.7140 1390 Sunset Road, Highland Park, IL 60035, minutes from Hwy. 41 off Deerfield Rd.

a fe

tured i n

o

2013 h

in

n

rt

g

best of

i shore l

v

Look for North Shore Living’s seal on the windows and vehicles of only the finest businesses servicing the North Shore and neighboring communities.

don't settle for anyone else's If

bike

you can dream it, they can build it.

Employing & empowering people with significant disabilities for over 35 years

Our high-quality line of remanufactured ink and toner cartridges provides businesses of all sizes with the solutions, value, and reliability they deserve.

773-754-3100 www.TRI-Industries.org

Solutions that work: from the community to your desktop.

F

or those who dream about bikes, Trek salutes you. Trek’s new Project One bike program allows bike enthusiasts to customize, personalize and sensationalize their next road or tri bike. Whether your taste is simplistic or elaborate, Project One offers an array of customizable options to help you stand out from the pack.

Alter stem lengths and angles, seat post offset and saddle and even upgrade your drivetrain to enhance performance. From the hue of your cable housing to the sizing of your cranks and headset, Project One gives you a say in virtually every aspect of your bike’s assembly.

To start designing your new bike, visit www.trekbikes.com/projectone or stop in to Evanston’s Wheel & Sprocket.

They have experienced staff who can work with you one-on-one to perform a fit analysis (critical for ensuring the correct sizing of each element), answer technical questions and assist you in the creation process.

Once you’ve completed your design, Trek will build the bike to your exact, customized specifications. Imagine — a bike that uniquely fits your body, reflects your personality and is truly unlike any other.

For more information about Project One, to schedule a fit analysis or for any of your other biking needs, contact Wheel & Sprocket at 847.846.7660 or visit their new location at 1027 Davis St. in Evanston.

The New Age In

Exterior Wall Coating B reakthrough ceramic coating system lowers energy costs and provides long-lasting protection for your home.

H

omeowners are breaking the endless cycle of painting and repainting their homes with a significantly advanced option. Ceramic exterior coating is a revolutionary product that combines the natural appearance of a freshly painted surface with the permanence and durability associated with vinyl or aluminum siding.

Ceramic coating looks like fresh rich paint, and is available in virtually any color. It can be applied over wood, brick, stucco, Masonite, concrete blocks and more. This coating forms a thick, protective shield that will never chip, crack or peel.

Not only does it waterproof, soundproof and insulate a home, but you will never need to paint your exterior again.

These unique exteriors also provide energy saving and environmental benefits. While solar radiation significantly raises a wall’s surface temperature, ceramic coatings reflect solar rays away, lowering surface tem-

peratures by more than 30 degrees and reducing energy consumption by helping keep the home cool.

Furthermore, some ceramic coating brands also protect against mold, mildew and fungus. For instance, Rhino Shield, the market leader in the ceramic wall coating industry uses a proprietary EPA-registered three-part-additive to protect against these plant pathogens from growing on your home and prematurely aging its exterior.

This new-age, breakthrough product also contains ceramic microspheres

before

34

North Shore living magazine | inaugural issue

after

that replace the inexpensive filler products found in conventional paints. These microspheres provide an insulating barrier for walls to protect against heat, UV rays and material breakdown.

To apply their ceramic coating, Rhino Shield uses a three-step process as seen on the home improvement show “This Old House” and HGTV’s “Curb Appeal.”

First, they power wash and scrape the home’s surface to remove all the dirt, grime, mold and mildew from the exterior, filling in any cracks with an elastomeric caulk.

Next, they apply an adhesive

primer sealer that permeates the substrate and completely waterproofs the surface.

This also acts as a bonding agent for the durable ceramic finish coat, which is applied in the final stage to all exterior surfaces.

When the application process is complete, the home is protected from the elements and will never have to be painted again.

For more information about exterior wall coatings visit www.ChicagoRhinoShield. com. For a free inspection and estimate, contact Rhino Shield at 847.999.0604, toll free at 888.744.6664 or info@chicagorhinoshield. com.

Serving the North Shore for over 20 years • Wood & Gas Fireplaces & Stoves • Glass Doors – Gas Logs • Gas Inserts – Wood Inserts • Tool Sets & Accessories • Direct Vent Gas Fireplaces • Vent Free Gas Fireplaces • Chimney Sweeping, Repair, Rebuilds and Liners Our Service department is fully trained to service all brands and types of hearth appliances

American Heritage Fireplace & Chimney Specialists

773-862-8200 |

www.AmHerFire.com

Call Today for Spring Chimney Work Special Pricing!

Visit our Showroom at 3054 N. Western Ave, Chicago

Thinking of

Remodeling but Don’t Know Who to Trust?

Find

the

A

Right Leader

and the

Team

major home addition or remodeling project can be a daunting process for a homeowner. Defining your specific needs, finding an architect, communicating your vision and refining the design are just the first steps. Once plans are in place, you must still find, vet, choose and manage a qualified builder to carry out the project per your wishes and according to your budget.

This process is time consuming and frustrating.

There can also be pitfalls and unforeseen expenses along the way. So, who do you Additions or Updating Existing Space. trust?

The popular alternative to this selfmost importantly, delivering the project management nightmare is to follow the on time and on budget. They also offer Architect/Builder approach. The Archi- their expertise to you on a personal tect/Builder approach streamlines the level when selecting materials, conprocess of a custom project by working sidering paint colors, detailing design with a single point of contact who com- components and talking through cost pletes the architectural work as well as considerations. the construction. They act as a friend, a However, because you will be so guide and a support mechanism for the reliant on the character and expertise homeowner through each stage of the of the Architect/Builder firm, it is project. important to thoroughly research any This professional partner is with you company you are considering. “Make from the very first drawing to the very sure they have done similar projects last nail; taking full responsibility for on homes like yours,” explains 30-year the design process, on-site construction industry veteran and award-winning coordination, quality workmanship and architect Michael Gould. “Contact the

36

North Shore living magazine | inaugural issue

will

Follow

firm’s references to inquire about their satisfaction with the process, cost controls and of course the end result.

Find out if the project manager they worked with communicated well and acted as a professional partner or if they behaved more like a salesperson trying to up-sell at every opportunity.”

Gould says not to be afraid of asking questions and stresses the importance of meeting and speaking with the person managing your project as well as visiting previously completed projects for yourself. Finding the right leader for your project puts a trusted partner in your corner to reduce your stress, manage a smooth transition from design through construction and ensure the outcome you deserve.

Michael Gould, President of Michael Gould Architect/Builders, has been assisting homeowners on the North Shore for more than 30 years. To find additional information, testimonials and noteworthy projects, visit www.MichaelGould.net.

To contact Michael, call: 847.220.6742 or email Michael@michaelgould.net.

DOG P

RKS

of the north shore

By Beatrice mANNING

An upscale pet boutique for the very best in food, fashion, and fun toys for your furry friends

Now Open!

A

fter what felt like an endless Chicago winter, spring has finally arrived and North Shore dogs are ready to get out of the house and play…just like their owners. Fortunately, the North Shore has some wonderful places for dogs to be dogs. Some of our favorites include:

DOG BEACHES

Highland Park Dog Beach Moraine Beach, 2501 Sheridan Road The beach area is completely fenced in and dogs can run leash-free, swim ‘till they shiver, and meet other dogs and their owners. Our favorite part – the cleanup area for drying off and getting sand out of paws and fur before your pooch heads home for a long nap.

Gillson Park Dog Beach Wilmette, just off of Sheridan Road at Michigan Avenue You’ll find the dog beach at the southern end of Gillson Park. The dog area is well fenced for you and your best friend to enjoy the sand and surf. But remember to keep them on leash while walking through the park to the beach.

Evanston Dog Beach North of the Church Street Launch Facility, where Church meets Lake Michigan This slice of doggie heaven is open for running and swimming, weather permitting. To make sure you don’t disappoint your pooch, visit the City of Evanston’s website to sign up for text alerts on days when there is a dog beach closing.

Dog Parks

Prairie Wolf Dog Exercise Area In Lake Forest, on the east side of Waukegan Road between Half Day and Old Mill Roads This is a 44-acre dog paradise. It’s entirely fenced in, has restrooms, dog and human drinking fountains, fields, trails, a training enclosure and even a swimming pond. Daily permits can be purchased at the self-pay station located in the parking lot.

Independence Grove Dog Exercise Area Located just outside of the Independence Grove Forest Preserve just off of Milwaukee Avenue, north of Buckley Road Giving Prarie Wolf a run for its money, this 30-acre property is fenced on three sides and suited for off-leash fun on its trails, fields, wooded areas and large pond. Day permits can be purchased at the self-pay in the parking lot.

Pooch Park 3220 Oakton Street at the Channel-Side Park in Skokie The site for the annual Woofstock event held each June, this a 2.7-acre recreational dog park is fenced for off-leash activities. Permits are available for residents and non-residents.

A FULL SERVICE DOG GROOMING SALON Open Tuesdays-Saturdays, call for an appointment.

Come in and check out our fine selection of collars, leashes, beds, toys, pet related gifts, and so much more. Take advantage of our food loyalty program. Spend $250 on food, treats, or bones, and receive $25 toward a future purchase! And don't forget to register your pet for our $10 birthday gift certificate!

LIVING HSHOREGET T R O N N MENTIOAGAZINE AND TICK! M ULLY S

4" B A FREE

VISIT OUR WEBSITE AND 'LIKE' US ON FACEBOOK FOR THE LATEST NEWS AND EVENTS

840 Willow Road, Suite J Northbrook, IL 60062 (847) 272-2918 www.wagsonwillow.com Retail Store Hours: Mon., Tues., Wed., Fri., Sat.: 10a.m.-6p.m.

Thurs.: 10a.m.-7p.m. Sun.: 11a.m.–5 p.m.

nslmagazine.com | North Shore living magazine

37

From Disgrace and Honky Tonk to

Vibrant Commercial Hubs

By Sue Masaracchia-Roberts

B

efore becoming the pleasant European-styled marketplace that visitors see today, accounts say that Lake Forest’s Market Square resembled an old 1880s Wyoming mining town.

Along the Western Avenue railroad tracks, a motley assortment of ramshackle buildings abutted mud and gravel streets. Behind them was a dump, the city weight scale, a dog pound and other eyesores. Aside from being unsightly, these streets and

40

the buildings’ uneven wooden stairs were hard to maneuver – even on good days.

Yet, located across from the railroad station, this was the first and last vision of Lake Forest that visitors would see. In a 1917 article in The Western Architect, architect

North Shore living magazine | inaugural issue

and architectural critic Peter B. Wight called this area “a disgrace to civilization.”

Local residents, architect Harold Van Doren Shaw and businessman Arthur T. Aldis – who worked in real estate management -- shared a vision. In 1912, the pair decided to spearhead change by organizing several local businessmen to purchase the land and revise the area.

The collaboration, called the Lake Forest Improvement Trust, was the earliest known instance of an organization formed to demolish a wellestablished town center and replace it with something more lucrative and aesthetically pleasing. However, the idea was not without its adversaries.

Initially, the local reaction

was rather cold, according to a 1940 Freehold article. Some local merchants charged that the project was by and for the elite. To counter objections, Shaw and Aldis provided space for a Young Women’s Christian Association and a Young Men’s Club.

Despite the opposition, the Trust raised enough money by 1915 to buy the land.

Between 1916 and 1917, using mostly horses and manpower, they completed construction. According to the National Register of Historic Places, Market Square is the first planned American shopping center to exist – especially one that catered to automobile traffic.

The subtitle of a Christian Science Monitor article by (continued on page 50)

When Your Child Needs Extra Help

in School

R

aising a child on the North Shore with learning differences is challenging, often leaving

by Margot parents overwhelmed. UnderAndersen, MSW standing your child’s needs, navigating the special education maze and learning the range of services available can be daunting. Having a skilled companion on this journey can be helpful and enlightening.

Quality advice on the local schools and resources can make this process less intimidating. For these reasons, many North Shore families seek the guidance of an educational consultant or advocate.

Knowing your child’s unique learning and emotional strengths and weaknesses is critical. An advocate can help the family interpret test findings and professional reports.

It is important to properly assess, diagnose and understand learning issues. Often there is a neurobiological basis for learning disorders, ADHD, anxiety and emotional disorders, also called “no fault” brain disorders.

Once you understand your child’s needs, the educational consultant/advocate can help you apply the state and federal

laws that protect children who are struggling in school.

Whether your child needs services under the Response to Intervention model, IDEA (special education) or Section 504, a skilled consultant will explain how to match needs to school and community resources. The advocate partners with the parents to build a strategic plan that will assist parents in obtaining the services they are entitled to from the school, such as extended time on tests, individualized instruction and other accommodations.

Having a third party accompany parents to school meetings offloads the emotions of the meeting from the parents to the advocate who can successfully lobby for the child’s needs.

For parents, this guidance and emotional support is a lifeline during stormy times. For the child, an educational advocate can be the difference between a school and social life of struggle or success.

Margot Andersen, MSW, ACSW, RYT is a social worker who has successfully advocated for families with special education needs for more than 16 years. Contact Margot at 847.272.4090 or visit www.margotandersen.com for additional information.

Install Cleanliness 847.220.6745

Cleaner Air, Reduced Allergies, Whisper Quiet Call now for Spring Cleaning Specials or visit us at: www.jcvacs.com nslmagazine.com | North Shore living magazine

41

American Dream Embodying the

86 years ago, John T. Iskalis opened the doors to his American Dream

Iskalis way.”

Iskalis American Floor Show has since expanded to serve the North Shore both out of its original location in Waukegan and their Evanston based location Central Rug & Carpet. John, the third generation owner of the family business, incorporates the same beliefs that his father and grandfather had before him.

With is philosophy of “give your customer a good product with quality installation at a fair price, you have a happy customer for life,” John has grown the family business into the premier floor covering retailer in Cook, Lake and McHenry County as well as several parts of Wisconsin and other neighboring other States.

A

n immigrant from Albania, John came to the U.S. to pursue a better life. After entering through Ellis Island, John moved across the country to start his first business in Waukegan, Illinois.

In 1927, Iskalis' American Floor Show began serving its first customers.

John separated himself from the competition by promising his customers fast and courteous service at the lowest pricing he could afford. Over the years, John worked with home owners, contractors, hotels and property management customers while teaching his son Tom the ropes of the business.

“My Father had a vision to continuously expand his standards of performance and labor,” explains Tom. “He was focused on perfecting our ability to offer resources that embraced the highest level of quality in product, installation and customer service.”

That vision served the Iskalis’ well, and in 1971, when Tom took over, the Iskalis American Floor Show expanded its services and quickly became recognized as one of the premier floor cover-

42

For additional information about the Iskalis story, Central Rug & Carpet or Iskalis American Floor Show, visit www.

CentralRug.com or call Central Rug & Carpet at 847.475.1190 or Iskalis American Home Show at 847.662.7900. ing retailers in the North Shore. Tom's constant pursuit of 100% customer satisfaction and mission to provide the highest-quality and cost-effective services became an iconic mantra in the family-owned business.

Tom’s son John (named after his grandfather) recalls growing up in the family business and the importance of customer happiness. “One year, a customer ordered new carpet from us that was scheduled to be delivered on my Dad’s birthday. Back then, my Father went out on many of the deliveries. But this time, our family encouraged him to stay home and celebrate instead. Before blowing out the candles, Dad insisted on calling his customer to check on her satisfaction with the job. It’s just the

North Shore living magazine | inaugural issue

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43

painting fine interior and exterior

A

great way to update your home is with a fresh new paint scheme. But not just any contractor should be entrusted with your home.

Getting your home properly painted inside and out can affect the experience you and your guests have in your home each and every day, and it also provides protection for one of your most important investments.

A quality painting experience is about the process, integrity and customer service a contractor provides.

A painting contractor should provide a detailed estimate, identify the products they will be using, stick to the budget and schedule, and go through an inspection with the homeowner before requesting final payment.

If they are not willing to readily provide a list of references, either they don’t have that much experience or they don’t have many satisfied customers.

What really makes the difference in the quality of the finished job is the prep work.

Skilled painting professionals spend the necessary time sanding, caulking and

44

patching so that the finished surface is perfectly smooth, without imperfections and blemishes that will show up as time goes on. Exterior surfaces that aren’t properly prepped are more susceptible to dry rot, water intrusion and premature wear.

A credible painting contractor uses quality paints and other materials. There is a difference between the top brands and what are referred to as “builder grade” prod-

ucts that cost less. Again, it is a difference that appears over time, in the ability of the paint to wear well, clean well and resist fading.

But what really distinguishes painting contractors that provide the most satisfying experience are those whose skills go above and beyond just painting. It can be very helpful to have a painting contractor with a decorator’s eye, who can con-

North Shore living magazine | inaugural issue

sult on color selection and complementary accent colors, and who can help with things like custom wood trim or adding features like crown molding to upgrade the finish in a room.

Another set of skills that separates top painting contractors is specialized painting such as faux finishing. This involves using paint, stains, glaze and similar products to create the illusion of luxurious materials like fine-grained wood, antiqued finishes, natural stone and other surfaces.

Kitchen cabinets or other woodwork can be updated by staining, glazing, distressing or by using other faux painting techniques for a

French country, Tuscan or rustic look. These techniques can be used to complement furniture, flooring and accessories to create a desired ambiance and signature style in your home.

There are only a few painting professionals working on the North Shore whose expertise goes beyond simple paint and wall covering work. Skilled in faux finishes as well as related woodwork carpentry, Red Feather Painting is an example of a local full-service painting and decorating contractor – with more than 25 years of experience in both interior and exterior painting projects.

For more information about faux finishes and fine exterior painting visit www. redfeatherpainting.com or contact John Sochacki, President of Red Feather Painting, at 847.724.4936 or info@ RedFeatherPainting.com.

Father-Daughter

Cabinet Makers Doing

custom woodworking from design to installation

Most of our business is in the North Shore, where the homes and their owners demand the highest quality. We excel at what we do, and it shows though our work. When a project is completed, we both love to sit back and look at our work with pride. We only use high quality craftsmanship and materials. We are accurate, careful and considerate. This is what has kept us busy on the North Shore, primarily through word of mouth, for over 28 years.

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mike benstein: “I love creating beautiful builtins along with my daughter”

jen benstein: “It occurred to me that we make Focal Points for nice homes”

Custom made, built-in cabinetry adds beauty to your home, while giving your cherished items and books a well-deserved designated place.

Jen has always been interested in my workshop. In fact “Shop” was one of her very first words.

She built her first cabinet when she was only 10 years old!

Comfort Square Custom Cabinetry 28th Year

nslmagazine.com | North Shore living magazine

45

Senior Housing Selecting

by Jennifer Prell

D

Identifying

the

Right Community

eciding which senior community best suits your needs, or those of a loved one, is a difficult task.

Not only is there a transition in lifestyle to consider, but there are many different levels of care to consider as well. Below are informative descriptions of the various types of communities to help you get started.

Independent Living Communities are built to accommodate seniors who are independent with minimal medical requirements. Meal packages are available once, twice or three times per day depending on individual preference. Housekeeping is often included, but not usually laundry service.

to

Meet Your Needs

Assisted Living Communities such as Belmont Village of Glenview offer apartment-style living for seniors with some medical needs and some independency issues. Medication assistance is available as are activities, programs, laundry service, housekeeping, on-site nursing care, scheduled transportation and a central dining area where all meals are served.

Memory Care Communities are built with safety in mind.

They are secure properties that provide seniors with cues to help them complete activities of daily living. Alzheimer's and dementia patients are often treated here. All activities, meals, programs, and daily routines are structured to accommodate the (continued on page 48)

Celebrating the Golden Age Belmont Village residents enjoy exceptional hospitality, luxurious amenities and premier programs for health and well-being. It's no wonder they feel as good as they look!

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(continued from page 46)

individual senior’s conditions.

Nursing Homes are for seniors who require high-level medical care and are completely dependent on the staff.

These facilities are intended for those with long-term care needs including complex medical conditions and immobility.

Skilled services may be covered by Medicare for a short stay and rehabilitation.

Supportive Living Facilities provide apartment-style assisted living to low-income older persons, persons with disabilities, and anyone over 65 needing care. Residents live independently while 24-hour staff is available to deliver personal care and services. Private pay and Medicaid are generally accepted here.

Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRC) or Life Care Communities such as Vi at the Glen encompass multiple levels of care. They offer independent living, assisted living and nursing care all on the same campus. Some CCRCs only allow new members of the community to enter at the independent living level, others are more flexible. Many, but not all CCRCs require an entrance fee.

For assistance with identifying the right community and

proper level of care, many North Shore residents choose to work with a senior care referral service. These free referral services are staffed with senior care industry experts who consider medical history, location requirements, budget and family when advising seniors on the best fit for their new home and lifestyle. Advisors can schedule and coordinate tours of different options for you and even accompany you to help answer questions and provide support throughout the process.

Jennifer Prell founded and manages two agencies that provide senior care assistance and is considered one of Illinois' foremost experts on senior care and senior housing.

For complimentary assistance related to senior housing, senior care, or for referrals to other professionals supporting our older adults, contact Elderwerks toll-free 855.462.0100 or Jennifer.Prell@ Elderwerks.com.

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49

Planning....To Help Your Family Think

about some of your life’s most memorable milestones: beginning your first job, getting married, starting a family and retiring; they all take planning.

T

oday, many people also plan their final arrangeby John W. Haben ments. While no one enjoys considering their own mortality, prearranging funerals is becoming as common as creating a living will, powers of attorney, estate planning and family trusts.

Each year, more than 2 million people prearrange and prefund their funeral. By taking the time to plan ahead, you can leave a little peace of mind for your family in an otherwise difficult time. In addition, you ensure that your life is remembered just as you would want it.

Making your final arrangements ahead of time will allow you to express your personal preferences for the type of service, type of disposition and type of legacy you will leave. Whether you prefer a large formal gathering, a simple, intimate ceremony, or something in between, preplanning provides you with an exact cost well in advance, and allows you to make these important decisions when you have the time to give them the consideration they deserve.

The comfort you get from making a tough transitional period a little easier on those closest to you makes the discomfort of thinking about it seem minor.

Ever since our founding in 1923, my family has helped the North Shore plan and preplan final arrangements. As a third generation, family-owned business that has serviced the North Shore for 90 years, we understand the community and its family-oriented values.

Haben Funeral Home & Crematory has made community service, professional integrity and high ethical standards a tradition. As we welcome the fourth generation into our family-owned-and-operated business, Haben continues its legacy of servicing the North Shore and will commemorate these milestones by undergoing a complete remodeling of our full-service facility.

John Haben is the owner of Haben Funeral & Crematory.

For additional information visit www.habenfuneral.com, or contact John at 847.220.6746 or infor@habenfuneral.com.

(continued from page 40)

Ruth Powell Wenban, published in 1923, describes evolution, saying, “Mr. Shaw’s plan transforms undignified little street into civic center of rare beauty.”

In the 1960s, with the appearance of more shopping centers and Market Square looking tired and worn, revitalization became imperative for its survival. Broadcare Management Company, known for redeveloping other National Historic Register Chicago structures like North Pier, took an interest in the Square. In 1984, the firm acquired the property from original trust-forming family descendants and not only restored its original appearance, but added nationally known merchants, like Marshall Fields, to the local merchant mix. This helped enhance the Square’s small town atmosphere, which has helped sustain it through today.

Another former eyesore in an unincorporated area called No Man’s Land, had a more unusual background.

Plaza Del Lago’s colorful connection with No Man’s Land Sandwiched between Kenilworth and Wilmette and once known as “No Man’s Land,” this area’s reputedly unsavory beginnings were the stuff of rumors and gossip. In the 1920s 50

North Shore living magazine | inaugural issue

and ‘30s, this solitary 22- acre triangle of former farmland owned by the Gage family was left undeveloped and isolated, displaying an array of haphazard development.

During the ‘20s, No Man’s Land lacked police and fire services, as well as restrictions and municipal control. This allowed it to foster a hotbed of what was considered unsavory behavior, like visitors patronizing speakeasies and engaging in gambling.

In George D. Bushnell’s Wilmette: A History, the area was described as “an unincorpor-ated strip of gasoline stations, hot dog and barbeque stands, tacky buildings where fireworks banned in Wilmette were sold, and where syndicate gambling and slot machines went undercover when investigators” appeared. Conservative Wilmette remained ‘dry’ (no alcohol allowed) well into the 20th century.

Between 1926 and 1928, despite development of the area facing strong opposition -- as well as talk of the enclave becoming a separate village also being hotly contested, developers began construction of a multifaceted entertainment area, including a club called Vista del Lago and the Breakers Beach Club, as well as the Miralago ballroom and casino.

The ramifications of the triangle’s isolation were best il(continued on page 54)

Allergies, Asthma, Lung Disease Your Home’s Indoor Air Quality Could Be

A

a

Problem

llergy and asthma are epidemic, affecting one of five Americans, and one in thirteen school-age children. One major contributing factor for American allergy, asthma and lung disease sufferers could be breathing the air inside their own homes. Dust, pet dander, mold, mites, pollen and other allergens make millions of allergy and asthma sufferers miserable.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency, indoor air is up to five times more polluted than outdoor air. Six out of ten homes are actually hazardous to occupants, and homes built after 1979 have tighter insulation, so they trap even more smoke, odors and contaminants than older homes.

Effective Solutions Central vacuum systems provide cleaner indoor air by removing particles without re-emitting microscopic dust into the home. The systems carry dirt, dust and allergens away from living areas to a collection canister in the garage or basement. HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filtration systems trap biological contaminants such as allergens, mold spores and bacteria. They can be installed on the furnace’s air return or independent of the home’s furnace in an attic, closet or storage room.

For more information about central vacuum systems visit www.jcvacs.com or call Just Central Vacuums at 847.220.6745.

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Learn more on page 8. nslmagazine.com | North Shore living magazine

51

Age Proofing

Your Home

by Steve Heideman

Increase the Livability of Your Home.

Keep Your Future Self in Mind when Remodeling

I

n December 2011, at the age of 35, I suffered a severe spinal cord injury while rock climbing, which forever limited the mobility that I took for granted. Instead of selling our home and creating more life-changing events for my family, we modified our home to make it accessible for all.

Not wanting our home to look or feel institutional in any form or fashion, finding the right remodeler was an extremely difficult and lengthy experience.

Hence my passion for helping others and my involvement with AIP (Age In Place) Custom Builders, a partnership of family-owned, award-winning builders and remodeler that specialize in creating aesthetically pleasing home renovations and innovative barrier-free living environments.

Plan Ahead!

There will be a time that you or a loved one’s mobility will be become limited; unfortunately for me it was sudden. When remodeling your home, think about your future self and age-proofing your home. Adding Universal Design principles makes a home more livable for all and makes it more appealing when it is time to sell. Done right, Universal Design elements are desirable and value enhancing. According to recent studies

by AARP and the National Association of Home Builders (NAHB), 50% of adults ages 44-62 plan to age in place, and 45% of all homeowners will be over 55 by 2020.

Hire an Expert When it’s time to hire, make sure to work with a reputable Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS). These builders

52

North Shore living magazine | inaugural issue

and remodelers and have been trained in Universal Design elements by the NAHB to understand aging-in-place needs and make educated design suggestions.

“A bench in a zero step shower is spa-like and popular with all ages. Install cabinets with pull-out drawers and handles versus knobs. Widening hallways, adding lighting, and removing sunken rooms will add to a home's Universal Design appeal,” says Art Wehnert, a CAPS instructor for the NAHB, and owner of Country Construction, an AIP Custom Builders partner. “Most contractors would not understand the impact of these suggestions.”

Accessible = Chic By fusing innovative design techniques with the highest craftsmanship, customized mobility renovations Know your options If you live in a multistory home, can it be retrofitted with an elevator or can a master bedroom be added on the first floor? Adding an elevator or even a convenient dumbwaiter is not as expensive as one might think, and studies show that they enhance home value.

It’s Prudent!

Alternatives to aging gracefully in your own home can cost $40,000 per year and up. Spending $50,000, $100,000 or more on value-adding improvements makes financial sense, and more importantly allows you to stay in the home you love.

For additional information about remodeling your home and increasing its functionality and livability visit www.AIPCustomBuilders.com or contact AIP (Age In Place) Custom Builders at 847.830.0570 or info@aipcustombuilders.com.

Home Control

Photo Courtesy of Graber & Somfy

At Your Fingertips!

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E

ver wonder how you got along before your cell phone or GPS? Technology is such a part of our daily lives that it’s hard to remember such things as pay phones and printed directions. Sure, we got along for years without remote controls and garage door openers, but would you ever want to go back?

Today, new technologies are providing even greater control over our daily lives, especially in the home. Home automation systems like TaHomA® are the latest devices that once installed, you could never again imagine living without. These systems give you control over your lights, ceiling fans, outlets, thermostats and motorized window treatments through any smartphone, laptop or tablet.

Left the house and forgot to turn the lights off? Worried about your home looking unattended while on vacation?

Interested in conserving energy and saving money with better control over your thermostat? Systems like TaHomA® puts home control at your fingertips from anywhere in the world and do not require a large investment to do so.

The majority of existing window treatments can be motorized using hard-wired, plug-in, solar or battery powered options. New or existing treatments can also be outfitted with or without switches and remote control options.

For more information about TaHomA® or other motorized window treatments visit www.MotorizedWindowTreatments.net or contact Mathew Kandl at 847.732.4104 or info@MotorizedWindowTreatments.net.

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847-220-6377 nslmagazine.com | North Shore living magazine

53

Keep your marble looking

N

Spectacular!

atural stone such as marble, granite, terrazzo, limestone and travertine may be durable, but it is not indestructible. Fortunately, because most problems are repairable, properly maintaining natural stone costs substantially less than replacing it.

The addition of any one of these quality materials refines the surfaces of your home. Whether it’s in the foyer, kitchen, bathroom or fireplace, natural stone adds a beautiful and luxurious architectural element.

Although beautiful, natural stone is susceptible to stains, spills and damages from everyday occurrences. In the kitchen, cranberry juice spills across the granite counter, leaving a reddish hue.

A housekeeper using multipurpose cleaner diminishes a bathroom’s shine.

A pebble caught

in a guest’s shoe creates scratches throughout your marble flooring. Hard water in a shower causes the marble's finish to be dulled over time.

However, scratches, dull spots and etches caused by chemicals or sharp objects can be honed and polished to their original shine. Regardless what problem you may encounter with your stone surfaces, there is a solution.

To learn more about care for your natural stone or to schedule a free estimate for restoration, maintenance or cleaning, contact Dan Lundstedt, owner of Sir Grout at 847.220.6344, e-mail Dan@ sirgrout.com or visit www.sirgrout. com. Sir Grout has won consecutive Super Service Awards from Angie's List and Dan has been featured in Entrepreneur Magazine!

(continued from page 50)

lustrated during the 1932 Miralago fire, which largely destroyed the twostory entertainment center. Shortly before this, Wilmette withdrew fire protection and, shortly thereafter, shut off the water supply when property owners refused to pay for water in advance. Evanston was the first town to respond to the fire, but Kenilworth police chief shut off the hydrant they were using. By the time other villages stepped in, the building was lost.

Around the same time, developers also built the Teatro del Lago and a Spanish-style shopping center constructed along a driveway. This motor vehicle-friendly mall was called “Spanish Court,” the second shopping mall in the US to provide onsite parking. With the onset of the Depression in 1929, much of the development, like Vista del Lago, halted. However, the theater remained in operation for 39 years, finally closing only in the early 1960s, when developer Plato Faufas bought the Spanish Court property. It was torn down to make room for additional parking.

As for the reconfigured shopping center with a fountain at its center, although renamed Plaza del Lago, the mall and its 54

North Shore living magazine | inaugural issue

specialty shops retained its original Spanish design. Although having little else in common with its No Man’s Land past, It remains a shining remnant of that time.

From 1927 until 1942, area residents engaged in an intermittent but ongoing battle over annexation, which ended with Wilmette absorbing No Man’s Land, ending a heated struggle summed up in a 1938 issue of Alumni News: “Primitive individualism has its advantages – for some people some of the time, at least, but civilization with all its annoying restrictions and expenses, has more.”

Sue Masaracchia-Roberts is a freelance writer and public relations consultant specializing in health care, profiles and small businesses, Sue has been published in a variety of local and national newspapers and magazines. These include the Chicago Tribune, the Lake County Journal, Vital Times, Examiner.com, the Business Ledger, the Daily Herald and Pioneer Press, and is a member of the Midwest Writers Association and Publicity Club of Chicago. Sue can be reached at 847.680.6583 or suemas@comcast.net.

Aesthetics improved

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nslmagazine.com | North Shore living magazine

55

What Clients Say After Chakra Balancing!

I first met Janet in the beginning of summer 2009. My life wasn't balanced; I was depressed, sad, in love with someone who would never love me back and going nowhere in my job.

What a change the last 7 weeks has brought about. I am no longer depressed, or sad. I am completely over the man I was in love with and have let go of any hopes or thoughts of him. I have moved up in my job, bringing with that even more financial stability. It is amazing, truly amazing.

I think that best part of the Chakra Balancing would have to be Katherine. I feel blessed to have met her at all and to have been able to work with her, but I feel I can truly call her a friend. She was always understanding and comforting about my issues, and yet, was very honest at all times, whether I liked what she said or not. I cannot thank her enough for helping me through this process and just introducing it to me to begin with. Because of Katherine and her amazing abilities, everything has changed and it feels awesome!

— Anonymous A few months ago I was wondering around feeling broken and hopeless, more like a guest in my life than the star. I had been robbed of my self-confidence, happiness, and feelings of worth. What I needed to do, Katherine said, was balance my Chakras.

I was sick of being miserable and tired. I needed to change.

By the end of the first week I felt better than I had in years. Even my friends and family noticed a difference. Throughout the balancing treatment I felt everything fall into place. Things that would have depressed me for months rolled off my back. I was less stressed. I could feel a sense of calm throughout my body. I no longer worried about things that were out of my control, but instead focused on my reactions, which I could control. Best of all, I recovered my self-confidence.

After completing the Chakra Balancing treatment I can tell you this—feeling this good about myself, feeling like I can do anything I want to, feeling whole—is priceless!

I recommend everyone go see Katherine. She is funny, caring, compassionate, helpful, supportive, and most of all real. Put your trust in her and follow her directions and I guarantee you will not be disappointed.

— Cassie I have no way of explaining why I feel 200% better! I just have an overall sense of well being that I've never had before. I think Katherine is doing something real and unexplainable. If you're thinking about seeing her, I say go. I don't think you'll regret it.

— Chris Within the week I felt energized and motivated. I was constantly humming and dancing in my chair at work. I had a nice strut in my walk and showed purpose. The words ‘I can’t were replaced with ‘I can’, always finding a solution and not quitting and throwing in the towel. My smile was present more than ever and the positivity was spreading like wildfire.

I had never imagined that meditation could be so soothing and with Katherine’s help, guidance, and generosity I have been able to cleanse my spirit, soul and heart.

It’s hard to put into words how extremely grateful I am to Katherine. She is my friend, my spirit sister, and my angel. If you feel lost and need help then rely on Katherine.

You’ll experience first-hand the tremendous gift she has. Just listen and do as she says. She will never lead you down a wrong path. She will help you find yourself.

— Linda

A Few Words with Katherine— How do our Chakras physically effect us?

Our Chakras are reflective of who we are. In the same way that our physical organs (heart, lungs, kidneys etc) have jobs to do, our Chakras have specific functions.

Whilst our physical organs keep us running on a physical level, our Chakras keep us running on a spiritual level. Even non-spiritual people have Chakras; they are our connection to our inner selves.

However, if we lead an unhealthy lifestyle our Chakras can fall out of Katherine Merino frequency or worse still, become blocked. This causes a disruption to our bodies energy flow and we either fall prey to illnesses, feel under par, or we lose our emotional equilibrium.

How do you perform Chakra Balancing work?

As a gifted clairvoyant, Chakra balancing is a means to help my clients unleash their energy and let their life force flow. Our energy, our life force flows through our Chakras. If we cling on to an unresolved or unprocessed emotion, what happens is less energy can flow through our bodies. Our life force is restricted. Basically when we do not fully express and process our emotions, we are storing things up inside us. Our Chakras then enforce our bodies to deal with it.

That which you do not deal with emotionally, WILL get dealt with physically.

My clients choose what type of session they want and I take it from there. I will ask that they not ask questions or make comments during the session."

Clients may employ me for many different reasons - advice, confusion, curiosity— but all abide by the same guideline: Don't set foot in the door unless you want honesty.

When people come to me, they're coming to hear the truth. And once they have that truth, they are better able to process their emotional blocks and get on with a rewarding life.

What is your background and training?

The ability to see beyond the range of ordinary perception is a fact of life for the Merino family.

Like those who pass down freckles, dimples or the ability to curl ones tongue, this insightful ability has been passed through generations of women in her family, including my mother and grandmother.

To contain and better control my abilities, I began training with my mother when I was very young. You develop your abilities and then you have to balance them.

Balancing, or gaining that control, is achieved through hours of meditation.

I would wake up in the morning, brush my teeth, wash my face, grab a quick breakfast and meditate.

I didn't realize that Chakra Balancing would help make the issues in my life more manageable by making me calmer, happier, more confident and give me an overall sense of peace.

— Amy In less than three months, I have become a new person. The weight of the world has been lifted off my shoulders. I am now a participant in life rather than watching it from the sidelines. I can honestly say I am happy. I am a better mother and friend.

— Laura

Initial Chakra Balancing Consultation $125 the

Suburban Woman of the Northwest Suburbs

®

00

©March, 2013 - April, 2013

The Balanced Chakra $5 of every session will be donated to Breast Cancer Research

Live

•

Life

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Balanced

Seven Week One-On-One Chakra Balancing and Training What is Chakra ?

The Chakras are respons responsible for directing and distributing this energy throughout our body. There The are 7 major Chakras running from the base of the spine to the crown of the head, each Chakra being responsible for different organs, nerves and muscles. When each distributing energy to diffe perfect frequency emotions are centered and balanced Chakra spins at its perfec sense of peace. and we enjoy a deep sen

SYMPTOMS OF F YO YOUR OU CHAKRA BEING IMBALANCED 1. Lack of motivation 2. The feeling of being N NUMB 3. Depression 4. Low/No sex drive 5. Untidy home 6. Fearful 7. Lacking confidence 8. Low self esteem

9. Unable to maintain positive communication in relationships 10. Self-doubt 11. Feeling unable to move forward 12. Unable to have a committed relationship/friendship 13. Feeling unable to express your true feelings due to the fear of judgment 14. The feeling of being alone 15. Feeling unheard and misunderstood 16. Lack of energy 17. Feeling like you are going in circles

847.277.7900 • www.thebalancedchakra.com 654 S. Northwest Hwy, Barrington IL 60010 the

Suburban Woman of the Northwest Suburbs

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©March, 2013 - April, 2013

the

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t’s the most wasted space in your home – the one room that never warms up in the winter nor cools off in the summer. It’s uncomfortable and inhospitable. However, it’s no longer unfixable.

Rooms typically vary in temperature due to gaps and holes in a home's ductwork. These issues prevent heated or cooled air from reaching the rooms furthest from the furnace and result in an unbalanced distribution of heated or cooled air.

This inefficiency also makes your system work harder, resulting in higher energy costs and more stress on furnaces and air conditioning systems. "Homeowners usually call us because they want to better heating or cooling for a particular room”, says Joseph St. Pierre of Aeroseal Solutions. “But when they find out the added benefits to their air quality, they can’t book us fast enough” According to the Environmental Protec-

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tion Agency, 90% of dust circulating in a home is comprised of insulation particulates. The gaps and holes that negatively effect efficient air delivery also pollute the home’s breathable air.

St. Pierre, who has been working with the Aeroseal system for more than ten years explains, "Homeowners are taking a double hit by wasting 30-40% on their energy costs and also breathing in pollutants and allergens. Aeroseal was designed to fix all of those problems in a matter of hours".

Aeroseal, which has been approved

by Underwriter's Laboratories, the EPA and the U.S. Department of Energy, is a clean, safe, water-based vinyl polymer

North Shore living magazine | inaugural issue

Room in the House

sealant similar in consistency to chewing gum or hair spray.

The process takes four to eight hours and starts with trained technicians sealing all the vents in a home and then pressurizing the HVAC system.

Once prepped, the vaporized sealant is blasted through the ductwork, plugging any gaps or holes that exist. The entire process is monitored by a sophisticated computer system involving pressure tubes inserted throughout the ductwork and homeowners receive certified reports on ductwork leaks before, during and after the application.

Aeroseal, which provides a 10-year guarantee on all the work performed, has been recognized by the U.S. Department of Energy as one of the 23 “most beneficial technologies” for American consumers and was honored an Energy 100 award.

The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that in the Midwest, homeowners who invest in the Aeroseal process will save between $300 and $500 per year on utility costs alone, not counting the reduced wear and tear on their heating and cooling systems," explains Lauren Schubert, marketing coordinator for Aeroseal Solutions.

To see a video of an Aeroseal installation or for more information about Aeroseal Solutions, visit www.AerosealSolutions.com. To schedule a consultation and free estimate call 847.220.6371.

Since 1973

847.381.1245 • www.barrington-pools.com

Christopher Designs

PH OT OGRAPH Y: BART O SZ P O TO C KI

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North Shore living magazine | inaugural issue