Country Magazine, December/January 2026 by JWC Media

AskConnie

e Case for Smart Risk in a Changing Market

Q: Everyone says today’s market rewards people who think differently. What does that actually mean for Real Estate Advisors—and how can we use it to our advantage here?

A: Thinking differently isn’t about leaping without a parachute; it’s about packing the parachute, checking the wind, and then taking a conﬁdent jump. In Barrington, Lake Zurich, and our nearby luxury pockets, smart risk starts with timing and message. If most sellers wait for spring, consider a December or January launch when competition is thinner and motivated buyers pay closer attention. Lead your marketing with a lifestyle hook—golf, lake, schools, commute—so the home’s story lands before the stats do. Test what you try, track the results, and keep what works. Science… but make it real estate.

Network like it matters, because it does. Expand your circle to include local attorneys, inspectors, designers, club and community contacts, and strong agent-to-agent relationships. Show up with something useful—a quick market stat, a trusted vendor name, a short video update. Consistency beats heroic bursts every time. Most of all, be real.

Build a weekly rhythm so your “risks” are actually informed moves. Set aside time for outreach, same-day follow-ups, a rapid scan of new actives, pending, and closed comps, and one polished piece of content. With that foundation, you can price inside the comp band, launch tightly, and still sleep at night.

Let technology be your very punctual teammate. Use premium media—daylight, twilight, and drone—interactive ﬂoor plans, targeted social, polished email, and AI-assisted drafts to sharpen copy and speed response. Tech won’t replace expertise; it just makes your expertise look like it had a great night’s sleep.

For Sellers this December, think lean-competition launch, accompanied showings, a clear feature sheet, and proof of care like pre-inspection notes, receipts, and utility history.

For Buyers, widen the search logic to adjacent streets and off-market conversations, and keep paperwork ready.

Bottom line: smart risk is a process. Question assumptions, commit to the work, let technology do the heavy lifting behind your human touch, and you’ll turn a changing market into an advantage—with a smile.

holidays in barrington ®

More Than Storage. It’s a

Lifestyle

Luxe Corsa Auto Suites isn’t just a place to store your cars— it’s an elite community where speed, style, and sophistication converge. The development features 121 meticulously crafted luxury auto suites, each o ering a private, secure, and customizable space to showcase and store your prized vehicles.

Available Units & Features

Fully climate controlled • Modern pedestrian door • Stylish curated bathroom with walk-in shower • LED lighting throughout • Insulated walls, ceilings and garage door • 100 AMP electric service • Commercial-grade overhead garage door • Wood staircase & railings to mezzanine level • Upgrades & customization via onsite designer • Multiple units can be combined “pre-construction” only

PREMIUM TYPE A UNITS

30’ x 50’ + mezzanine 30’ x 31’ = 2,430 total square feet ( ts approximately 6 cars and 3 motorcycles)

STANDARD TYPE B UNITS

23’ x 50’ + mezzanine 23’ x 31’ = 1,863 total square feet ( ts approximately 4 cars and 2 motorcycles)

The rst 50 buyers Will be automatically entered for a chance to win a trip to the 2026 MONACO GRAND PRIX*

Email or call for current availability info@luxecorsa.com (224) 662-0000 Images of customized units.

AIROOM KNOWS ADDITIONS

YOUR FURNACE and BOILER EXPERTS

Locally Owned & Operated Since 1973 “ I’m a long time North Shore Realtor and Cahill is the only company of its kind that I recommend. They are honest, friendly and knowledgeable. All my clients who have used them feel the same way.

5 Star service! ”

TIMELESS TREASURES

For nearly two centuries, CD Peacock has de ned Chicago luxury with an unparalleled collection of ne jewelry and timepieces. Family-owned since 1837, e Mansion at Oakbrook Center continues this storied legacy, o ering an extraordinary destination to celebrate life’s most meaningful moments. Discover the art of gifting with elegance this holiday season.

CD Peacock is located at 298 Oakbrook Center in Oak Brook, 630-571-5355, cdpeacock.com.

FOPE Flex'it Bracelet with a Black Diamond FOR HIM:

CD PEACOCK Chicago Cubs Double Dogtag with Sapphires

BLANCPAIN

Villeret Quantième Complet Watch

PARMIGIANI FLEUIER Toric Petite Seconde Watch

JOHN HARDY Classic Chain Bracelet 12 8

ZENITH Defy Skyline Skeleton Black Ceramic Watch

PEACOCK

Chicago Cubs Scoreboard Watch (Limited Edition)

GLASHUTTE ORIGINAL Seventies

Chronograph

Panorama Date Watch

FRANCESCA VILLA Being Furry Oval Ring

MONICA RICH KOSANN Slim "Rae" Locket Necklace with White Diamonds

ROBERTO COIN 18K Verona Medium Width Bangle with Diamond Accent

CHANEL

Première Édition Originale Watch

FOR HER:

910

1112

PASQUALE BRUNI Petit Garden EarringsWhite Gold

ANITA KO Diamond Pave Snake Coil Ring

Panthère De Cartier Watch

ANITA KO Classic Leaf Diamond Necklace

13 19

17 1514

MARK HENRY

Initial "A" - "Z" Diamond Pendant

CD PEACOCK 18K White Gold 7-inch North South Emerald-Cut Diamond Bezel-Set Tennis Bracelet

HEARTS ON FIRE Barre Floating Diamond Ring

CARTIER

DECEMBER/JANUARY 2026

Force of Nature

Petite Floral Creations Owner

Hagar Duel Finds a Sense of Community in Barrington.

In Search of a Match

Northbrook native Amy Manelli is living with polycystic kidney disease. Now, she’s sharing her story in hopes of ﬁnding a living donor and inspiring others to learn more about organ donation.

Cents of Style—With Purpose

Barrington’s Jenny Welsh built a business that connects families, empowers sellers, and celebrates sustainability.

Bailey’s Battle

A Barrington family ﬁghts to raise awareness of Marfan syndrome.

Hearts in Action

Fill a Heart 4 Kids ﬁlls foster children’s hearts with love and inspires a community to give.

Roger Vivier x Mytheresa Campaign

Holiday Glam with Roger Vivier x Mytheresa DEPARTMENTS

EDITOR’S NOTE UP FRONT THE BUZZ CLOSER LOOK BEAUTY LIVING & GIVING ON OUR RADAR COUNTRY VS. TOWN LOOK FASHION FOOD & TRAVEL COCKTAIL RECIPE FIRST

ON THE COVER

Hagar Duel of Petite Floral Creations.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARIA PONCE BERRE HAIR AND MAKEUP BY LEANNA ERNEST STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA

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JWC Media accepts freelance contributions; however, there is no guarantee that unsolicited manuscripts, photographs, or graphics will be returned. All rights to the contents of this magazine are owned in full by JWC Media. COUNTRY Magazine may not be reproduced in whole or in part, including but not limited to advertisements and articles, without written permission from the publisher. COUNTRY Magazine assumes no responsibility for statements made or opinions expressed by contributing writers, editors, or advertisers. However, comments or corrections or diﬀering opinions are welcomed. e publisher reserves the right to edit and place all editorials and ads. © 2026 JWC Media

FRESH WAYS TO WEAR YOUR FAVORITE JEWELRY THIS HOLIDAY

WORDS BY CHRISTINE RAZNY-PORTER, RAZNY JEWELERS

With the holidays approaching, now is the perfect time to reimagine how you style the jewelry you already own and love. e beauty of thoughtful styling lies in its ability to make each piece feel fresh and intentional, transforming your collection into something uniquely yours. Whether dressing for a gathering, soirée or a quiet evening by the ﬁre, these styling tips can help add a festive ﬂair to any look.

Embrace mixed metals

Combine the warmth of yellow gold, the sleek sheen of white gold and the romantic glow of rose gold for a look that feels elevated and on-trend. Layering diﬀerent tones adds depth and individuality, allowing each metal to beautifully complement the others. Start with your preferred base and accent it with contrasting hues for a polished, modern ﬁnish.

Personalized and meaningful jewelry

e best initial necklaces oﬀer a subtle way to add a personal touch to everyday style. Delicate yet meaningful. e letter you wear can symbolize whatever holds the most signiﬁcance: your own name, a child’s name or a meaningful word. Today, jewelry customization has reached a new level of self-expression. You can design your own piece by choosing the metal, gemstones, engraving, style, size, or shape.

Mix, match, and layer necklaces

Create dimension by pairing necklaces of diﬀerent lengths, textures, and styles. Mix delicate chains with pendants or add a bold link to anchor the look. A good guideline is to vary necklace lengths by

about 2 to 4 inches between each layer. is spacing creates enough separation for each piece to stand out while still feeling cohesive. For example, try pairing a 16-inch choker with an 18-inch pendant and a 20-inch chain for natural movement and balance.

Unexpected pairings

e holiday season is the perfect time to embrace your personal style through unexpected combinations. Mix diamond shapes— round, emerald, or pear cuts—for a more distinctive look. Try stacking rings across different fingers or adding a diamond to your pinky for a modern, celebratory touch. ese creative pairings bring a sense of self to your style, proving that luxury shines brightest when it reflects you.

For more styling inspiration, expert advice or to select a new piece to add to your collection, visit Razny Jewelers in Addison, Highland Park, Hinsdale, or Chicago’s Gold Coast or online at razny.com

Christine Razny-Porter is Razny Jewelers’ third-generation owner, a graduate gemologist and the creator of Re ned by Razny, a collection of modern diamond essentials that beautifully transition from casual to dressy. Razny Jewelers has been Chicago’s leading family-owned and operated source for natural diamonds, ne jewelry, and Swiss timepieces for nearly 75 years.

Christine Razny-Porter

EDITOR’S NOTE

The December/January issue

is one that is always near and dear to my heart. Celebrating the holidays is always a magical time of year, one in which I try to pause and ﬁnd ways to give back to the community around me. is issue is chock full of just such opportunities. Like me, you will be moved greatly by Amy Manelli’s story—a young mom living with polycystic kidney disease (a genetic disorder) who is actively looking for a kidney donor to prolong her life. Jess Milburn returns to share her family’s journey with Marfan syndrome in order to raise awareness of its impacts. And in Hearts in Action we learn how Annie McAveeney is changing foster children’s lives, one thoughtful gesture at a time. Each of these stories presents an opportunity to give back to those in need as we celebrate all the blessings we have.

As we move into the New Year, keep in mind the ﬂoral talents of cover star Hagar Duel for the year ahead. And learn all about Meg Cappel’s many pursuits in Closer Look. Looking forward into the New Year, it’s also important to look back—which we do in One Last ing as we celebrate the recent historic Chicago river swim, truly a remarkable feat for all the participants.

Cheers, Megan Weisberg Editor-in-Chief megan.weisberg@jwcmedia.com

Closer Look’s Meg Cappel is a baker and new author. Find out more on page 28. Here Cappel wears Balmain light blue dress and TOCCIN sweater, neimanmarcus.com.

SHANA VITEK

EQUITY PARTNER

BEERMANN

LLP

Shana Vitek is an Equity Partner at Beermann LLP, the largest family law firm in the country. For more than 20 years, she has practiced divorce and family law exclusively. She handles a wide range of cases, including divorces for business owners, high-profile and high-net-worth clients. Vitek’s ability to handle any type of case has allowed her to become one of only a few attorneys in Illinois to be Board Certified in Family Trial Law by the National Board of Trial Advocacy. She is also a Fellow of the American Academy of Matrimonial Lawyers and serves on the Board of Governors for the Illinois Chapter. “Every family is different, so each case that I handle needs an individualized approach,” she says. “All initial consultations include information about the alternatives to litigation and keeping the divorce process out of court.” In addition to being a litigator, Vitek is also a trained mediator, arbitrator, and collaborative attorney. If a case can be handled using a cooperative approach, that is her preferred process. “It is more respectful, allowing the parties to decide what is best for their family while maintaining confidentiality and keeping sensitive personal details out of the public record.” Vitek believes it is important to give back to the community. She is Chair of the Beermann LLP Family Law Clinic. In partnership with Chicago Volunteer Legal Services, this first of its kind family law clinic provides pro bono legal services to individuals going through domestic relations proceedings who could not otherwise afford legal representation. “We feel strongly about giving back to the community, and given the size of our firm, we are in a unique position to make a big difference for clients who would otherwise go unrepresented in family law matters,” says Vitek. For more information visit beermannlaw.com/team/shana-l-vitek.

CULTURE, MURMURS & STYLE

AIR JORDAN

Written by bestselling author Adam Bradley and with a foreword by Michael Jordan himself, this new book is a celebration of the 40-year (and counting) partnership between Michael Jordan and Jordan Brand. Exploring diﬀerent facets of the partnership, Air Jordan provides rich context to this collaboration through striking interviews from key insiders, rare materials from Nike’s private corporate archives alongside exclusive images of Michael Jordan’s personal keepsakes. e book will be available in Assouline’s Classics and Ultimate collections. Find your copy at Assouline.com.

© NIKE, Inc. Collection of Department of Nike Archives

© NIKE, Inc.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHUCK KUHN

Air Jordan Published by Assouline

ARCTIC WINTER BAR ON THE MARINA

Broken Oar Marina-Bar & Grill brings back its Arctic Winter Bar with even more festive fun, cozy vibes, and seasonal surprises. Running now through February 1, guests are invited to experience this limited time pop-up, a one-of-akind enclosed outdoor bar, lounge, and barn that blends cozy comfort with holiday cheer. This year brings rotating live music on the Oar Stage, festive craft cocktails, and a full menu of comfort food favorites. The Broken Oar, Port Barrington

STRIKING NEW HIGH AND FINE JEWELRY

Ti any & Co. has unveiled a new jewelry collection, Bird on a Rock by Ti any. At the heart of the Bird on a Rock collection is the wing motif— graceful, sculptural, and symbolic. Inspired by the layered beauty and delicate tension of a bird’s plumage, the designs take ﬂight in radiant diamonds and precious metals. The collection includes two exceptional high jewelry suites. One is centered around tanzanites—an iconic Ti any & Co. “legacy gemstone” that the House introduced in 1968—while the other celebrates turquoise, a gemstone deeply embedded in Ti any & Co.’s design heritage. From intricate texturing to various diamond-setting techniques, Ti any & Co.’s craftsmanship signatures are evident throughout the collection. Find your perfect piece to gift at ti any.com

HOLIDAY SING-A-LONG

Celebrate the holidays with a joyful program of carols, including voices, brass, and bells, featuring the professional vocal ensemble, Vox Madonna. Revel in the performances and readings, and then join in singing familiar carols. Following the program, a Christmas cookie reception will take place in Fellowship Hall.

Sunday, December 14, 2025 3:00 PM

Presbyterian Church of Barrington 6 Brinker Road

Ti any & Co., Bird Ring in Platinum and Gold with Diamonds, ti any.com

Ti any & Co., Wings Rings in Platinum with Diamonds, ti any.com

Professional

High-End Photography

Digital Marketing & Online Exposure

Contract Negotiation

Celebrate the season with extraordinary color and timeless brilliance. From classic staples to rare statement pieces including our breathtaking 33-carat heart-shaped yellow diamond pendant our ready-to-gift jewelry is available in a range of price points to make every holiday moment unforgettable.

847-381-7900, info@mjmillerjewelers.com

Meg Cappel lives in Barrington with her husband, Jake, and children Betty (4.5), Max (2.5), and Milo (6 months old). Cappel is a proud stay-athome mom, award winning hobby baker, and aspiring author. She’s involved in Heritage Church in Lake Zurich, Barrington Junior Women’s Club, and also volunteers at her daughter’s preschool, Saint Anne.

EDITED BY MORGAN HOGERTY / PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAMES GUSTIN

HAIR AND MAKEUP BY LEANNA ERNEST / STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA

Actress to play you in a movie?

When we ﬁrst met, my husband told me I resembled a younger Sherilyn Finn

Person from history to travel with? Jesus

Look for inspiration?

My dad, Stan, he has a natural ability to make life fun

Favorite book? 11/22/63

Most beloved cookbook? Art of the Pie by Kate McDermott

Dinner party hack?

Lean into what you’re good at. I like to bake so I’ll focus on a showstopper dessert and outsource the rest

What’s in your bag?

Tatcha Lip Mask, Buxom Plump Shot Gloss, Ray-Ban sunglasses, YumEarth Fruit Snacks, and a small stick my son brought to me at the park

Gadget:

MEG LOVES

Scent: Barrington spot:

Neoteca at night, Ambrosia in the morning

Hostess gift to receive:

Cappel wears Balmain light blue dress and TOCCIN sweater, neimanmarcus.com.

DR AAM

EDITED BY MEGAN WEISBERG Be bold this holiday season.

Clockwise: 1 Charlotte Tilbury, Bigger Brighter Eyes Eyeshadow Palette, nordstrom.com 2 Sisley Paris, Phyto-Sourcils Design 3-in-1 Eyebrow Pencil, nordstrom.com 3 MAC Cosmetics, Powder Blush, nordstrom.com 4 DIOR, Rouge Dior Liquid Sequin Duo Lipstick, nordstrom.com 5 La Prairie, Skin Caviar Essence-in-Foundation, nordstrom.com 6 MAC Cosmetics, Connect in Color 12-Pan Eyeshadow Palette, nordstrom.com 7 Tom Ford, Lip Color Lipstick, nordstrom.com 8 Sisley Paris, Ligne Noire Eyeliner, nordstrom.com

POWER OF THE PURSE 2025

PHOTOGRAPHY BY WIDIA VITI

On November 2, Women United, an a nity group of United Way of Lake County, hosted Power of the Purse 2025 at Royal Melbourne Country Club in Long Grove, welcoming over 200 Lake County women for a lively and impactful afternoon. Guests enjoyed brunch and bubbly, bid on designer handbags and ra e prizes, and helped fund programs that prepare local children for kindergarten and beyond. uwlakeco.org/wu

Maggie Dudzinska, Jessica Obiala

Janette Damian, Mara Grujanac, Elizabeth Suerth

Lynne Bergero, Dr Venoncia M Bate-Amrus, Nadine Johnson, Althea Bate, Destiny McCain

Mavi Thakkar, Wendy Warren, Stacey McNeely, Mary Coduti, Thea Colwell, Pearl Lawson

Kathy Sarri, Kelly Desino

Susan Snyder, Laura Spector

Patrice Maloney-Knau , Tricia Eckland

Kelly Spratt-Szarzynski, Beth Krenzer

Maggie Ma, Arlyn Franklin, Paula Jenkins, Mandy Inian, Beth Krenzer

Northwestern Medical Nurses

Merri Lazerby, Silvya Blizniak, Pam Paglia, Nancy Hudlun

Mariam Bond, Erin Cartwright Weinstein

Heather Lytle, Jeannett Hodgkinson

Tricia Eckland, Maggie Dudzinska, Jessica Obiala

Sandy Hovey, Patti Melican, Debbie Wol , Heather Kenny, Kari Paul, Kathy Barbosa, Chrystal Tourt

Lindsay Levine, Michelle Hansen, Jessica Ceisel

Estate

RUSH WOMAN'S BOARD FALL BENEFIT

PHOTOGRAPHY

BY NOAH GELFMAN

The Woman’s Board of Rush University Medical Center hosted its 9th annual Fall Beneﬁt at Artifact Events in Chicago. Themed “Une Soirée d’Automne,” the event drew inspiration from Paris in the 1920s and featured casino games, a mime duo, French-inspired cuisine, Art Deco décor, and a cabaret lounge with a beguiling jazz chanteuse. Proceeds from the event help to advance groundbreaking research, innovative treatments, and exceptional patient care at Rush University Medical Center. thewomansboard.org

Event chairman Beverly Birck with Grace Birck

Dave and Christina Kline

Rush President and CEO Dr. Omar Lateef

Mimes entertained guests

Woman’s Board

President Kate Peterson and George Rohrer

Wendy and Tom Herb

Mike Klein and Jackie Hoskins at the casino table

A fun game of roulette

Dr. Bob Higgins, Michelle Boardman, Meredith Boardman

WINGS PURPLE TIE BALL

PHOTOGRAPHY BY GOSIA PHOTOGRAPHY

In honor of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, WINGS 25th Annual Purple Tie Ball raised more than $1.18 million to support the agency’s domestic violence programs. Co-chaired by Kim Frezados and Shanna Nikolic, the sold-out a air welcomed over 670 attendees to join in celebrating WINGS four decades of impact in an enchanted garden atmosphere. During a night of surprises, special guest Christy Martin, boxing legend and inspiration for the ﬁlm Christy starring Sydney Sweeney, promoted an exclusive live auction experience and WINGS announced the upcoming nationwide launch of its Traumatic Brain Injury Toolkit. www.wingsprogram.com

Julie Heldring, Mag Phelan

Kim and Greg Frezados

Christy Martin

Helen Kalantzis, Marcela Giegerich, Shanna Nikolic

Lori Paris, Kim Frezados, Shanna Nikolic, Joanne Castle, event co-chairs and décor co-chairs

Lynn Cirrincione, Carol Lundahl, Megan Hargitt

Gray Hulick, Leah Gordon, Atour Sargon, Debbie Miceli, Sumedha Bhattal

Katherine and Terry Banich, Matt and Megan Weisberg

Craig Holick, Tamara Solarich, Beth Horowitz Steel, Ken Hopps, Frances Hopps

Tom and Cynthia Bridges, Eric and Kate Christman

Rebecca Darr, Christy Martin, Ellaine Sambo-Reyther

Brian and Alyssa Quinlan

Kim Frezados and Shanna Nikolic, event co-chairs

“We just installed all new windows at our house and we love them! Before we made our decision we went to the manufacturer’s plant to see how the windows were made. We were concerned at ﬁrst because Russ’s price was more than half of his competitor’s quoted price. After our tour we were very comfortable with our decision. Installation day was quick and painless. Our house was left in great condition. I highly recommend this company!”

Chicago-born Jill Ostrowski has been married to her husband, Peter, for 26 years. With her two children, Isabella and Nikolas (both now adults), family remains the center of her life. A registered dental hygienist at Lake Forest Smiles, Ostrowski has had the privilege of caring for patients for over 31 years and takes pride in educating and supporting her patients to maintain healthy, confident smiles. In 2024, she and her husband opened Elite Clothes For Men, a boutique menswear store in downtown Barrington. At Elite, Ostrowski focuses on ensuring every client finds clothing that fits perfectly and reflects their style. Deeply committed to the Barrington community, she cherishes the friendships, professional relationships, and collaborations she has developed here.

EDITED BY MORGAN HOGERTY

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAMES GUSTIN

HAIR AND MAKEUP BY LEANNA ERNEST

STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA

Jill Ostrowski wearing Cinq à Sept tweed jacket, alice + olivia pant, neimanmarcus.com

Mantra? True power lies in balance and strength but always expressed with elegance and class Best grooming tip? Keep it simple, always use face SPF and a good eye cream Guilty pleasure?

A great bottle of Italian Brunello di Montalcino with my husband Favorite foods? Warm almond croissant with a hot café latte, Lou Malnati’s Chicago Classic Deep Dish with pepperoni, gigi’s smash burger with crispy hot fries and their mayo Music you love? Country music and Coldplay Best advice ever given to you? Don’t take people too personally. Live your own life. Best advice you’ve given? Be your best advocate. Don’t ever stop searching for the right answer Earliest memory?

Family road trips to Florida and my dad buying me my ﬁrst Cabbage Patch doll Before bed, you? ank God for my day, say goodnight to my children, and kiss my husband goodnight What’s on your bookshelf? Self-improvement books and Country Magazine, of course You can’t live without?

My family, sunglasses, lip gloss, and dental floss Love to escape to? Cabo San Lucas and our best friends’ house at Miramar Lakes in Florida Advice you would give to your younger self? Talk less, listen more, and don’t take people so personally

WHEN IN THE COUNTRY

Your style is? Snappy casual, always put together and elegant with a pop of color Can’t leave the house without? Sun glasses, ﬂoss, and lip gloss Transportation? White Mercedes SUV Driving music?

Sirius XM Cody Allen Place to eat? gigi’s Wine Bar, Region Kitchen and Bar, e Greggory, and LAGO Best thing about e amazing supportive community Worst thing about country?

It needs more outdoor dining e perfect day is? A great workout, a long walk with my 15-year-old puppy Chloe, followed up by a great dinner with my husband

WHEN IN TOWN

Your style is? Chic and elegant. Signature jewelry, bag, and a beautiful heel Can’t leave the house without? Phone, lip gloss, sunglass es, and ﬂoss Transportation? Train or Uber Driving music? Cold play or country Place to eat? Tre Dita, Fioretta, and La Scarola Shop? Michigan Avenue, Oak Street shops, and my all-time favorite boutique, Contessa Bottega Best thing about town? e incredible vibe, restaurants, and beautiful skyline Worst thing about town? Traﬃc e perfect day is? A lake walk, shopping, a massage at e Langham, and a beautiful dinner with the perfect city view

Ostrowski in Dorothee Schumacher, neimanmarcus.com

Look

Carolina Bucci, Pineider Jewelry Box, carolinabucci.com

Empowered when the outcome is crucial.

NAVIGATING THE COMPLEXITIES OF HIGH NET-WORTH-DIVORCE

Divorce is a complex and emotionally charged process with significant financial and legal ramifications. The stakes are undeniably high, making it crucial for individuals to maintain clarity and a strategic approach throughout. High-net-worth divorce involves intricate asset divisions, complex tax implications, and often, the involvement of multiple professionals such as financial advisors, forensic accountants, private investigators and asset valuation experts.

CLARITY AND SUPPORT

Partnering with Family Law Solutions can provide the clarity and support needed to navigate this challenging terrain. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and experience the difference our approach can make when the outcome is crucial.

Janet E. Boyle Founder and Principal 40 years in Family Law

EDITED BY MEGAN WEISBERG

1 Dolce & Gabanna, mytheresa.com 2 Etro, Paisley Silk Maxi Dress, mytheresa.com 3 Etro, DoubleBreasted Cotton Velvet Blazer, mytheresa.com 4 Dolce & Gabbana, Feather-Trimmed Printed Silk Minidress, mytheresa.com 5 Etro, 120 Velvet Platform Sandals, mytheresa.com 6 Jimmy Choo, Love 100 Crystal-Embellished pumps, mytheresa. com 7 Etro, Talk XS Studded Leather Clutch, mytheresa.com 8 Vivienne Westwood, Long Fond Draped Satin Gown, mytheresa.com 9 Dolce & Gabbana, Cropped Cotton-Blend Velvet Blazer, mytheresa.com 10 Dolce & Gabbana, High-Rise Satin Pencil Skirt, mytheresa.com 11 Carolina Bucci, Pineider Travel Case, carolinabucci.com 12 Gianvito Rossi, Heels, mytheresa.com 13 Maria Lucia Hohan, Camilla Metallic Silk Tulle Bustier Gown, mytheresa.com 14 ALAÏA , Second-Skin Jersey Midi Dress, mytheresa.com 15 Rene Caovilla, Spark 105 Embellished Velvet Sandals, mytheresa.com 16 Tom Ford, Cotton Velvet Flared Pants, mytheresa. com 17 Tom Ford, Single-Breasted Cotton Velvet Blazer, mytheresa.com 18 Carolina Bucci, Girandola Ring in 18k Yellow Gold, carolinabucci.com 19 KHAITE, Audrey Calf Hair Clutch, mytheresa.com

Hagar Duel in Badgley Mischka, neimanmarcus.com

Nat ure

Petite Floral Creations Owner Hagar Duel Finds a Sense of Community in Barrington.

WORDS BY TRICIA DESPRES

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARIA PONCE BERRE STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA HAIR AND MAKEUP BY LEANNA ERNEST

Hagar Duel was almost named Daisy –– a name as sweet and delicate as the blooms she now arranges daily in her Barrington ﬂoral studio.

“ e plan was for me to be named after my grandmother,” Duel tells Country in a recent interview.

“My parents immigrated here from Panama, and two months after they arrived in Chicago, my mom went into labor, but my parents didn’t know they were having twins until my mom was giving birth.”

In the chaos of that already crowded delivery room, it was decided that the twins would carry biblical names — one of which became a lifelong symbol of perseverance and faith and strength. And it is that powerful name––Hagar––that now seems to ﬁt the creative powerhouse perfectly.

“I’ve always had a passion for creating things with my hands,” explains Duel, a Senior Project Manager at Comcast and a wife and a mother of three who discovered her ultimate creative outlet back in 2018 when she opened Petite Floral Creations. “Plus, ﬂowers spark conversation and community. I’m from the Caribbean, so we just naturally gravitate to nature.”

Indeed, flowers have served as a form of artistic expression for Duel since she was just a little girl growing up in Chicago. “ e first flower I ever fell in love with was the gardenia,” gushes Duel, who met her husband, Eric, in Chicago while working in advertising sales together. “ ere’s just something feminine about the gardenia. I think it’s just the beauty and the delicacy of that particular flower that just reminds me of a woman. It holds so much potent fragrant power, but it is so delicate inside. I think that’s something that is truly reflective of me.”

Her love for all things ﬂoral is also somewhat reﬂective of her mother.

“I love perfumes, and especially love the scent of ﬂoral perfume,” Duel explains. “My mom worked at Christian Dior in the Panama Canal Zone for many years. And she also loved perfumes. So much of who I am now goes back to my mom and what she too loved.”

It’s these loves that seem to materialize amongst each and every one of Duel’s floral creations—bouquets and blooms that seemingly hold within it her beautiful spirit. “I feel like floral designs need to have rhythm,” she explains. “And with that rhythm, what choreography can I bring into it? Are the flowers dancing? Are the flowers moving?”

It is this philosophy that makes Petite Floral Creations truly something special.

“It’s all about bringing in something that is not normal to the eye, but that can create visual interest,” explains Duel, who also serves as the co-founder of Yo Soy Ella, Inc., a domestic violence nonproﬁt organization established in 2012 that speciﬁcally serves teen girls and women. “ at’s just part of my personality. I’m in-

tentional about bringing that philosophy into my designs.”

While designing weddings and special events, Duel also seems dedicated to ﬁnding ways in which ﬂoral design can serve as a form of therapy for those eager to discover something tangible in an increasingly intangible world.

“It can serve as a form of calming,” says Duel, who looks forward to creating more community wide events moving forward. “You can ground yourself just by touching and feeling and seeing ﬂoral creations come to life. My dream goal is to be able to utilize and leverage that art and share it. at’s part of my ﬂoral philosophy.”

“So much of who I am now goes back to my mom and what she too loved.”

It’s this approach that her clients have fallen in love with—much in the same way Duel says she ﬁnds herself totally in love with Barrington as a whole.

“ is business has already blossomed into something so beautiful, and that’s because of the Barrington community,” concludes Duel, who served as a PTO Board member at the Roslyn Road Community School while also serving on the Special Education Parent Advisory Committee. “ is place has allowed me to showcase my artistry, collaborate with diﬀerent farms, and connect with so many entrepreneurs. I love pairing the modern edge of Chicago to the small-town charm of Barrington. It just creates a story for me to tell.”

And as far as Duel is concerned, her story and the story of Petite Floral Creations will always include the town of Barrington.

“We are not going anywhere,” she states. “ e kids are grounded in the community and so are we.”

For more information, visit petite oralcreations.com.

IN SEARCH OF A MATCH

Northbrook native Amy Manelli is living with polycystic kidney disease. Now, she’s sharing her story in hopes of ﬁnding a living donor and inspiring others to learn more about organ donation.

WORDS BY ANN MARIE SCHEIDLER

When Amy Manelli talks about her life, the words that rise to the surface are gratitude, family, and perspective. She’s upbeat and calm, even when discussing something as daunting as living with endstage kidney disease. “I feel pretty good,” she says with a gentle smile. “I’m really healthy otherwise. My biggest challenge is fatigue—but I think a lot of busy parents can relate to that.”

Manelli, who grew up in Northbrook, has lived with polycystic kidney disease (PKD) for all of her adult life. PKD is a genetic disorder that causes ﬂuid-ﬁlled cysts to grow inside the kidneys, gradually enlarging them and diminishing their function over time. ere is no cure, and the disease often leads to kidney failure. Manelli’s father and uncle both battled PKD and underwent two kidney transplants each.

She ﬁrst learned she had the same disease as a teenager. “When I was a

senior in high school, my dad had kidney failure and went on the transplant list,” she recalls. “I was a good match for him, but when they did an ultrasound, they saw that I had the same disease as he did.”

ough her oﬃcial diagnosis didn’t come until her 20s, Manelli began seeing a nephrologist early on and managed her health carefully. Her proactive approach—combined with the care of Dr. Arlene Chapman, one of the nation’s leading experts in PKD at the University of Chicago—has helped her stay strong for decades. “Dr. Chapman’s care has made such a diﬀerence,” Manelli says. “Her deep knowledge of this disease has been invaluable.”

Today, Manelli is in stage 5 renal disease, with her kidneys functioning at about 15 percent. Despite the seriousness of her condition, she remains remarkably positive. “It’s

a progressive disease,” she says, “and even if you’re doing everything right, it’s like a train on a track that keeps going. But I’m doing all I can to stay healthy. I’m active, eating well, and managing my fatigue.”

Manelli, a ski instructor who has an avid love of the outdoors, and her husband moved to Utah in 2021 after living in Chicago for nearly two decades. “It was such a good move for our family,” she says. “Utah has all the things we enjoy.” eir two daughters are thriving in their new home. And after undergoing genetic testing, Manelli and her family were relieved to learn that the girls do not carry the PKD gene, something they had a 50-50 chance of having.

Now, Manelli is facing the next big step in her journey: ﬁnding a kidney donor.

“Because this disease runs in my family, ﬁnding a living

Amy Manelli and her family, 2023.

Manelli and her daughter Nicole at Walk for PKD, 2023.

Manelli at age 12 with her Dad, Chad Geiger.

“...everyone I’ve talked to who has donated a kidney says it was one of the most positive experiences of their lives.”

Manelli hiking in Utah, 2025.

donor outside of my own family is my best option,” she notes.

Dr. Chapman has encouraged Manelli to be proactive in looking for a donor.

“ e process of ﬁnding a donor can take months or it can take years,” Dr. Chapman explains. “ e good news is that Amy has time to ﬁnd one that is best for her. My experience has been that when a match is found, the donor is so happy that they are able to give.”

A kidney from a living donor typically lasts twice as long—15 to 20 years or more—compared to one from a deceased donor. “ e sooner I can ﬁnd a living donor, the better my chance of avoiding dialysis,” Manelli says. “ e best outcomes are when the transplant happens before dialysis is needed.”

When a donor is found, Manelli’s surgery will be complex. “Each of my kidneys is about seven to eight pounds,” says Manelli, who is only 5 feet 3 inches tall and weighs about 120 pounds. “Because they’re so large, both would need to be removed during the transplant. ey’re just too heavy and too dense for me to safely keep them. But I’m healthy, and my doctors think I’m a strong candidate for this more

diﬃcult surgery.”

Now, Manelli is sharing her story publicly in hopes that someone might consider becoming a kidney donor—whether for her or for someone else waiting for a transplant. “It’s such a personal decision,” she says. “But everyone I’ve talked to who has donated a kidney says it was one of the most positive experiences of their lives.”

For those interested in learning more about kidney donation, the process is conﬁdential, and all medical expenses are covered by the recipient’s insurance. Donors must be in good health and can schedule surgery at a time convenient for them.

“I have so much gratitude for the support around me,” Manelli shares. “My dad always told me to be proactive with my health and to research the best options available because knowledge is power when you’re ﬁghting this disease. And that’s what I’m trying to do now.”

If you or others would like to learn more, contact Amy Manelli at agmanelli@gmail.com or visit: https://unos.org/transplant/ living-donation/.

Manelli skiing in Canada Manelli with daughters Quinn and Nicole, 2019.

Cents of Style— With Purpose

Barrington’s Jenny Welsh built a business that connects families, empowers sellers, and celebrates sustainability.

WORDS BY ANN MARIE SCHEIDLER

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATRINA WITTKAMP

STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA

When Jenny Welsh launched Growing Cents of Style in 2006, she was a stayat-home mom with four daughters, a traveling husband, and a desire to contribute ﬁnancially to her family. What began with six clothing racks and a few folding tables in a small storefront on Cook Street in Barrington has grown into one of the region’s most beloved consignment events, now entirely online and reaching shoppers across the country.

“I started Growing Cents of Style as a way to help other families earn a little extra money and ﬁnd great clothes for less,” Welsh says. “I never imagined it would become what it is today.”

Welsh’s entrepreneurial journey started with a wish to help. In 2005, as she watched coverage of Hurricane Katrina, she felt compelled to do something. Drawing on her background in event planning and fundraising, she organized a massive neighborhood garage sale in Barrington. Neighbors divided up responsibilities—one handled toys, another home goods, Welsh took children’s clothing—and

they filled garages and driveways with donations. “People showed up with bins and bins of things,” she recalls. “We raised $20,000 for families affected by the storm.” at moment sparked something. “I realized how much high-quality stuff people had in their homes that they just didn’t know what to do with,” she recalls. Having sold on eBay before, Welsh began exploring new ways to connect sellers and buyers locally. After a friend told her about consignment events popular in the South, an idea clicked.

By fall 2006, the first Growing Cents of Style sale was ready. Welsh and a friend-turned-business-partner collected items in her garage and rented space through the park district. Word spread quickly through their preschool network, and the response was overwhelming. “ e hardest part of any consignment sale is finding the space to host it,” Welsh says with a laugh. “ ankfully, our Barrington connections helped us find places as we grew.”

Over the years, Growing Cents of Style expanded from a small local event to ﬁlling the massive 12,000-square-foot Canlan Sportsplex, with shoppers traveling long distances to browse the 32,000

items on the sales ﬂoor. “It would take 250 three-hour shifts to run one of our six-day events,” Welsh recalls. “It was massive—but it worked.”

en came 2020. With their biggest event ready to launch and thousands of items already set up, the pandemic shut everything down overnight. “It was such a traumatic experience,” Welsh says. “It forced us to rethink our entire model.”

Working with a marketing team, Welsh (now the sole owner of Growing Cents of Style) transitioned the entire sale online—an experiment that became the future of her business. e ﬁrst virtual sale, held in fall 2020, was a runaway success. “We realized we could solve so many of the challenges that came with in-person events—rising costs, staﬃng shortages, limited space,” she says. “ e online model just made sense.”

Today, Growing Cents of Style hosts two online sales each year, with hundreds of sellers uploading photos, setting prices, and selling items to shoppers across the country. Sellers drop oﬀ only what’s sold, and Welsh and her team organize the items for pickup or shipping.

“I love that this business has evolved alongside my life,” Welsh says.

“When I started, my twins were in preschool. Now, they have graduated from college. It’s allowed me to be present as a mom while still building something meaningful.”

For Welsh, Growing Cents of Style has always been about more than resale. “A lot of the families I work with, this truly makes a difference for them,” she explains. “And for shoppers, it’s a way to ﬁnd the brands they love at prices they adore.”

As Growing Cents of Style approaches its 20th anniversary next fall, Welsh’s favorite part of the business hasn’t changed. “It’s the people,” she says. “ e sellers, the shoppers, the families who’ve been with me all these years—they’re why I do it. Watching my daughters grow up helping with the sales, seeing them understand what it means to build something from the ground up—that’s what I’m most proud of.”

Registration for the next Growing Cents of Style online event opens in January, with the sale running March 3–7. To learn more, visit growingcentsofstyle.com.

Jenny Welsh, founder of Growing Cents of Style, standing in front of gentlyused items ready to be cataloged and sold online.

Bailey’s Battle

A Barrington family ﬁghts to raise awareness of Marfan syndrome.

WORDS BY MONICA KASS ROGERS

PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATRINA WITTKAMP

STYLING BY THERESA

DEMARIA

Standing just under six feet tall, 14-year-old Bailey Milburn has the lean frame and long limbs of a fashion model. But ask and she’ll tell you she’d much rather sew stuﬀed animals, read dystopian fantasy novels, or hang out at the mall with friends than walk a runway. “And on ursdays I’m with Barrington High School’s Soul Buddies Animal erapy Club,” she says, “because I really love animals.”

Just a few months ago, Bailey couldn’t do any of those things. She was recovering from the Park procedure—surgery that placed metal bars inside her chest to protect her heart. It was just one complication of Marfan syndrome; a genetic connective tissue disorder Bailey has lived with since birth. “Due to weak tissues in Bailey’s chest, her sternum had caved in and was squishing her heart and lungs so much her right ventricle was double the size of her left,” says Bailey’s mom, Jess Milburn, co-owner of Chicago’s North & Madison interior design ﬁrm.

e condition is often marked by tall stature, long arms, ﬁngers, and toes, nearsightedness, and loose joints—but those signs are easy to dismiss. “ ey don’t test for it before birth, and even afterward, doctors often miss it,” Jess explains. “We sure did.”

At birth, Bailey was oﬀ the charts for length, with unusually long ﬁngers and toes. But since her dad is tall, the family didn’t think much of it. Over time, other Marfan symptoms emerged—but it wasn’t until Jess picked up e Husband’s Secret by author Liane Moriarty that she had a breakthrough.

“I really had to

push for testing... Awareness

is everything.”

Aﬀecting roughly 1 in 5,000 people, Marfan can go undiagnosed for years—often until it’s too late. “Many die from its heart complications without even knowing they had it,” says Jess. “It’s crazy to me how under the radar it still is.”

“I was at a store right before a ﬂight and saw the book standing alone on display like some sign from the universe,” Jess recalls. “So, I bought it. Near the end, a character is described with Marfan syndrome—and it was like reading about Bailey. I couldn’t shake it.”

But despite Jess’s suspicions, getting a diagnosis for Bailey wasn’t easy. “Our pediatrician and geneticist were hesitant. I really had to push for testing,” Jess recalls. Finally, on New Year’s Eve 2019, when Bailey was 9, the results conﬁrmed it: she had Marfan.

Since then, the Milburns have dedicated themselves to spreading awareness. Discovering there were no local Marfan fundraisers, they launched the HeartWorks Chicago Gala, now in its ﬁfth year. Jess also serves on the board of the Marfan Foundation.

James, Bailey, Libby, Dylan, James, and Jess Milburn

“I really love that my mom cares so much about what I’m going through... that she’s trying to help others who have this. .”

The Milburn family.

“Awareness is everything,” she says. “Marfan aﬀects so many systems—eyes, spine, joints, heart—but symptoms often show up separately. Doctors may treat nearsightedness or scoliosis without realizing there’s an underlying condition.”

e most dangerous complication is aortic rupture—especially for undiagnosed athletes who appear ﬁt but are at risk of sudden death. Sadly, Olympic volleyball player Flo Hyman passed this way, as did University of Maryland basketball star Chris Patton.

Fortunately, Bailey has a strong medical team and hasn’t faced the most severe eﬀects. But the ﬁght isn’t over.

“It’s hard watching Bailey and others with Marfan suﬀer,” Jess says. “ at’s why we stay involved—to raise funds, share stories, and hopefully save lives.”

As for Bailey? “I kind of just take things day by day and deal with whatever comes,” she says. “I really love that my mom cares so much about what I’m going through with this, and that she’s trying to help others who have this. In my perfect world, I really hope that people with Marfan can make peace with it, stay positive, and not let it control them. We are so much more than this condition.

For information on the 5th Annual Chicago Heartworks Gala on February 20, visit https:// give.marfan.org/event/2026-chicago-heartworks-gala/e703149.

The Milburns with Charlie and Rosie

Jess and Bailey Milburn

Hearts in Action

Fill a Heart 4 Kids ﬁlls foster children’s hearts with love and inspires a community to give.

WORDS BY JANIS MVK / PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARIA PONCE BERRE

STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA / HAIR AND MAKEUP BY DORIA DEBARTOLO

It was 2007, and for the McAveeney family, what began as a single, instinctive act of compassion—opening their family’s home to a child in need—would go on to not only shape their own lives, but also to touch thousands of hearts across Chicagoland.

Having always wanted to make a diﬀerence for those in need, Annie McAveeney’s love for children led her to volunteer as a temporary foster parent, welcoming baby Mikey into her family. When it came time to return him to his family, the goodbye was painful, but it led to an outpouring of love that would go on to touch countless lives.

After dropping oﬀ baby Mikey, the McAveeneys walked down a hallway where Annie noticed a little girl quietly crying.

“ e little girl was conﬁding in a boy who was also waiting for a family,” shares Annie. “I

Annie McAveeney chose to make a di erence in foster children’s lives by founding Fill A Heart 4 Kids.

remember her saying, ‘I don’t want to go to my Valentine’s party because there will be mommies and I don’t have one.’ !e boy then gently told the girl, ‘Pretend the room mom is your mommy so you don’t cry. !at’s what I do.”’

!at heartbreaking interaction stayed with Annie.

“Our car ride home was hard,” she recalls. “We tried to help our daughters, Lilly and Ellorie, process the heartbreak by sharing, ‘When you see hardship or something that needs to change, you have the power to help.”’ I then asked, ‘How can you help the little girl who was crying?’”

Her daughter Lilly responded, “Who’s going to make kids without families feel loved like you make me feel on Valentine’s Day? Can we help the kids?”

!at same day, Lilly and her friends created 38 handmade Valentine cards and WeCare Packages for children living in

foster facilities. “ !e response was overwhelming,” Annie remembers. “ !e little girl who cried that day told us, ‘I knew we could ﬁnd someone to love us. Please don’t forget me.’”

Later, Ellorie asked, “Who’s going to help kids feel special on their birthdays?”

!is moment became the catalyst for Fill a Heart 4 Kids (FAH4K).

What started as a family project is now a 501(c)(3) nonproﬁt organization. Today, FAH4K supports more than 2,800 homeless and foster children annually, with the numbers rising to over 4,000 during the winter. FAH4K provides clothing, toiletries, and school supplies—along with educational support, life skills programs, and holiday gifts. Partnering with more than 80 schools and social service agencies, FAH4K ensures children in crisis remain fed, safe, and in school.

Dedicated, compassionate volunteers are central to the nonproﬁt’s success, and the Barrington community is especially supportive. “Families here consistently volunteer and spon-

sor WeCare packages for children in desperate need, especially over the holidays, which are scary times for children who rely on schools for safety and nourishment,” explains Annie. “ !ey support our !anksgiving and winter break food box events to help children without access to food pantries get through the holidays.”

“Many children arrive withdrawn, carrying the weight of abandonment, abuse, and trauma,” she observes. “ !rough consistent support, peer shaming and social isolation are reduced. School attendance rises when kids have hope. None of this would be possible without our volunteers and donors— they make dreams come true! Seeing how families, schools, and businesses step forward once they learn about the children, that ripple eﬀect of kindness is extraordinary.”

Annie eagerly shares FAH4K’s many success stories. “One

of the most joyful moments was receiving a thank you note from a foster youth, who was once homeless and part of our Brighter Futures program, but is now in school to become a dentist! And a Barrington family began volunteering at children’s events through FAH4K and formed a deep bond with a young boy in the program,” she shares. “After two years of nurturing that relationship, they adopted him. Watching him ﬁnally feel safe enough to be adopted and have a family he always dreamed of was life-changing.”

Her next big dream is to open a Fill a Heart 4 Kids foster home—a safe space where children can heal, dream, and rebuild. “Beyond basic needs, children need hope and support to feel dignity so they can build brighter futures. Seeing a child’s face light up because you know their name, to give a child a home where they feel loved and safe—you cannot put a price tag on that.”

To learn more about Fill a Heart 4 Kids, visit llaheart4kids.org.

A winter wonderland during the holiday season.

JOURNEYS & INDULGENCES

Enjoy a wild destination, one decadent dessert, and a cocktail to toast the season.

An African lion.

Photography by Laurent Denis. This month’s First Class feature highlights a private plane tour of Tanzania.

Pomegranate Mimosa

RECIPE AND PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF TWISTED ALCHEMY

Tiwisted Alchemy transforms fresh fruit into cold-pressed juices relied on by bartenders and enthusiasts for exceptional ﬂavor and consistency. is cocktail recipe showcases two signature ﬂavors ideal for the celebratory season.

INGREDIENTS

• 2 ounces Twisted Alchemy 100 percent ColdPressed Pomegranate Juice

• 4 ounces chilled Champagne or sparkling wine

• 0.5-ounce Twisted Alchemy 100 percent Cold-Pressed Valencia Orange Juice (optional)

• Fresh mint and pomegranate seeds for garnish

INSTRUCTIONS

Pour Twisted Alchemy Pomegranate Juice into a chilled champagne ﬂute. If desired, add Twisted Alchemy Valencia Orange Juice. Slowly top with Champagne or sparkling wine. Gently stir to combine. Garnish and serve immediately.

CROQUEMBOUCHE

WORDS, STYLING, AND PHOTOGRAPHY

BY FOOD EDITOR MONICA KASS ROGERS

Biting into one of the crispy-caramel-coated cream pu!s that make up a croquembouche is very much like breaking into that ﬁrst crackle-topped bite of crème brûlée. So, the French name for this dessert, which translates to “crunch in the mouth,” makes total sense. I’d seen these fairy-tower confections before, but when my kids came home from a wedding in France where a croquembouche was served, I decided to make one.

While the recipe requires patience, the result is truly worth it. To ease assembly, I made a paper cone to use as the base for the croquembouche, which helps a lot. But the most challenging bit is working with molten sugar caramel. You’ll dip the cream pu!s in this to stick them to the tower and then spin some in ethereal threads around the ﬁnished piece. Molten caramel is really hot stu!, so I used small kitchen tongs to hold

the pu!s during the dipping process to avoid getting burned. Because the caramel cools quickly, you may have to make a second batch to complete the entire tower. And to clean the pots, don’t panic! Just immerse and soak in hot water—the sugar will eventually dissolve and come o!

SERVES 8 – 10

INGREDIENTS

FOR THE CREAM PUFF DOUGH (PÂTE À CHOUX)

METHOD

MAKE THE PÂTE À

CHOUX

• 1 ½ sticks (12 tablespoons) unsalted butter

• ¾ cup whole milk

• ¾ cup water

• 1 ½ teaspoon sugar

• Pinch of salt

• 1 ½ cups bread ﬂour

• 5 eggs

FOR THE PASTRY CREAM

• 2 cups whole milk

• 1 vanilla bean, sliced in half lengthwise

• 6 large egg yolks

• 2/3 cup sugar

• ¼ cup cornstarch

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter

FOR THE CARAMEL

• 2 ½ cups sugar

• 2/3 cup water

Sift the flour. Line two half-sheet pans with parchment paper. Make a paper cone to serve as a base for the cream puffs and set aside. In a heavy saucepan over medium heat, combine the butter, milk, water, sugar, and salt and heat to boiling. Remove from heat and add the flour all at once, stirring hard until blended. Return to heat and keep stirring until the mixture forms a ball. Place in stand mixer bowl with paddle attachment and beat to cool for a few minutes. Whisk one of the eggs in a small bowl. Beat into the dough well. Whisk the second egg in small bowl and beat into the dough well. Repeat, scraping sides and bottom of bowl as needed until all eggs are added and the dough is a smooth paste. Cool for 5 minutes.

MAKE THE PUFFS Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Fill a pastry bag fitted with a 3/16-inch plain tip with the paste. Form little mounds, piping about 2 teaspoons for each puff. (Note: Make a few bigger and a few smaller because the little ones help fill in any gaps in the tower when you assemble the croquembouche.) Leave about 2 inches between each. Smooth any “peaks” by dipping your finger in water and smoothing the tops. Bake until puffed for 20 minutes; lower heat to 325 degrees and continue baking for 10 to 15 minutes until puffs are completely dry and golden brown.

MAKE PASTRY CREAM In a heavy saucepot over medium heat, combine milk and the halved vanilla bean and heat to boiling. Remove from heat, cover, and steep for 10 minutes. Fish out the vanilla bean, scraping vanilla seeds into the milk, and then discard the bean. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg yolks, sugar, cornstarch and salt. Temper by adding ½ cup of the warm milk to the mixture. Whisk in the rest of the milk; return whole mixture to saucepot over medium heat and cook, stirring constantly for about 7 minutes until thickened. Stir in the pat of butter. Cool and then pop in fridge until thoroughly chilled.

FILL CREAM PUFFS While cream is cooling, poke a small hole in the bottom of each puff. Fill a pastry bag fitted with a 3/16-inch plain tip with the cream. Squirt a little cream into each puff Set aside.

MAKE CARAMEL In a heavy pot, combine sugar and water over medium heat, stirring only for one minute. Cook until the mixture boils vigorously and begins to turn a light golden color. Remove from heat. Place the paper cone you made in the center of a plate. Working quickly, dip a filled cream puff bottom into the molten caramel and place at the base of the cone, sticking it to the plate and the side of the cone. Repeat until puffs circle the cone. Working upwards, continue dipping and placing until you have completed the tower with the last puff poked onto the tip. Now, dip a fork in the caramel and, touching one of the puffs, pull away and spin to create a thin caramel thread. Keep doing this until you have spun a pretty cage of threads around the tower.

SERVE e ﬁnished croquembouche should be served right away—no more than two hours after it’s completed.

THE HARMONY OF TANZANIA

Join me on a Tanzanian excursion where nature orchestrates its wild, exquisite rhythm across a breathtaking landscape.

WORDS BY DUSTIN O’REGAN

Tanzania stirs the soul in ways both quiet and grand. Harmony hums through the land, where animals move with quiet ease. From the continent’s tallest peak to the planet’s largest intact caldera, Tanzania enthralls and enchants.

is East African country doesn’t whisper its beauty—it roars. However, what stays with you isn’t just the scale of the country’s otherworldly landscape—it’s the rhythm. Everything working together to perform a seamless, choreographed dance. e stars of this performance? Every creature, great and small. Harvester ants clean the bush and aerate the soil. Elephants forge paths others follow. Oxpeckers ride buﬀaloes, plucking parasites. Termites build microhabitats that sustain aardvarks. Hyenas ensure nothing goes to waste.

ere’s a staggering eﬃciency to it all—no role too small, no gesture without meaning. is raw, seamless balance is just one of the things that took our breath away.

We traveled with Elewana and SkySafari, traversing the country by private plane—trading hours on the road for deeper moments in the bush. It was an awe-inspiring journey experienced in tandem with luxurious accommodations and unrivaled service.

Timing shapes every journey, so when dreaming of a Tanzanian sojourn, it helps to understand the seasonal diﬀerences. e dry season (June to October) oﬀers crisp air and clear views—animals congregate at shrinking waterholes and sightings come easily. But the green season (March to May) reveals another kind of magic; the

landscape awakens in full color, grasses ripple across the plains, and blossoms spill like confetti.

Our adventure, which began in May, meant we would encounter this latter, rain-kissed landscape.

First Stop: Elewana Arusha Co ee Lodge

Our journey unfolded under the watchful eye of Mount Kilimanjaro, nestled in the foothills of Mount Meru. After a fast-tracked arrival at the Kilimanjaro International Airport, we were whisked away to Elewana Arusha Coffee Lodge—an oasis tucked within a working coffee plantation. Lush, leafy, and aromatic, the property offered a serene welcome to Africa—an ideal place to ease into Tanzania’s relaxed rhythm.

Our suite—a luxurious wooden chalet—exuded East African warmth. At its heart, a white-canopied bed, framed in rich dark wood, felt lifted from the pages of a fairytale.

Be sure to sign up for the coﬀee tour—it is a fascinating, detailrich experience. A quick note: in Swahili, the word “coﬀee” means

Lioness in Tarangire National Park

Arusha Co ee Lodge at sunset

“slap,” so best to ask for a “kahawa” instead. Both wake you up—one is just a more pleasant start to your day!

Another must-visit is Shanga, a heartwarming workshop employing Tanzanians with disabilities. !ere, we tried our hand at making bracelets, crafted shopping bags from recycled newspapers, and attempted to blow glass (we left that to the pros—who impressively produce more than 100 glasses a day).

Second Stop: Elewana Tarangire Treetops

From Arusha, we took to the skies with SkySafari bound for Tarangire. Our private plane offered beautiful views and felt like a “sky drive” or a “game fly” as we spotted herds of animals below. Upon landing, giraffes threaded through the brush, elephants cooled off under ancient baobab trees, and darling dik diks (the smallest antelope species) scurried about.

Tarangire is a haven for wildlife; more than 3,000 elephants—one of the largest populations in East Africa—roam the bush. Our guide, Moses, pointed out that the African elephant’s ear looks like a map of Africa! And for bird lovers, it’s a paradise; more than 550 species ﬁll the swamps and skies, their calls creating an ever-present symphony.

Elewana Treetops lives up to its name: the main lodge—home to the dining room, lounge, and reception—is built around an 800-year-old baobab tree, its branches piercing the roof and reaching toward the expansive blue sky. Our spacious standalone “treetop” suite combined natural materials with contemporary Africana décor and featured a decadent bathroom with a silvercrowned shower overlooking miles of golden savannah. From the balcony, we watched birds wheel overhead and monkeys swing through the branches.

One day, we walked with a Maasai guide on a morning safari, dined in the bush for a beautiful lunch, and enjoyed Sundowners (sunset cocktails) atop Sunset Hill, where the sky turned to ﬁre over a breathtaking landscape. As the sun dipped below the horizon, a little family of warthogs hurried home. It never failed that every time we spotted a warthog, someone in our group would excitedly exclaim, “Pumba,” a nod to e Lion King

Another morning, we visited a Maasai village where my daughter quickly became a favorite among the children, who were particularly mesmerized by her rings. We danced with the women and browsed beautiful, beaded jewelry and handmade carvings.

At our last Tarangire meal, the staﬀ led us all in a farewell song before we headed to the ﬁre pit for the chef ’s glorious take on s’mores.

Third Stop: Elewana Serengeti Pioneer Camp

Taking to the skies again, we looked down

on perfectly circular Maasai villages nestled in the bush, built by a people who have coexisted with wildlife for generations. We landed at the “busiest” of our bush airports, where our guide Chambo welcomed us with a breakfast on the hood of our openair Land Rover and an introduction to the Serengeti. !e area is vast beyond comprehension—14,763 square kilometers of rolling plains and scattered kopjes. It is no surprise that the word “Serengeti” translates to “endless plain” in Maasai. Nowhere was the green season’s presence more evident than in the Serengeti. Leaving the airport, Chambo expertly navigated the ﬂooded roads with a thrilling mix of skids and splashes—equal parts terrifying and exhilarating. Despite the challenging terrain, the scenery was lush, electric, and alive with animals and birds, especially the dazzling blue starlings. !e soil had shifted from the red hues of Tarangire to a rich brown, marking the subtle change in landscape.

Our ﬁrst wildlife sighting was a massive watering hole teeming with hippos. Slightly jarring, however, was the sight of two enormous crocodiles feasting on the carcass of a hippo that had recently met its demise. I was struck by how unbothered the rest of the pod seemed—frolicking nearby, some even ﬂoating on their backs, their stocky legs poking playfully out of the water. It was a wild and unforgettable welcome to the Serengeti. Shortly after experiencing that circle of life moment, we arrived at our new camp. Set on a hilltop with sweeping views, Elewana Serengeti Pioneer Camp feels like a throwback to another era. With canvas tents inspired by 1930s safari explorers—think steamer trunks, writing desks, and framed sepia prints—it blends nostalgia with luxury. One thoroughly modern touch, however, is the camp’s dedication to a “zero footprint” philosophy, allowing guests to experience nature intimately while treading lightly on the land.

Each day brought new wonders. One morning, we witnessed three lions feasting on a wildebeest, zebras frolicking across the plains, and elephants moving with a slow, meditative grace (their footsteps so soft it feels as if the earth is holding its breath). Tanzania’s lions are known tree-climbers; seeing them splayed in the branches of sausage trees that dangle fruit-like ornaments— tails swinging, paws dangling—was somehow both majestic and endearing.

One morning, from a respectful distance, we observed a male

Lionesses sleeping in a sausage tree in the Serengeti.

Photography by Michael G Ennis

Aerial view of Tarangire Treetop room

Bedroom at Tarangire Treetops

Interior of tent at Serengeti Pioneer Camp. Photography by Enrico Constantini

FOOD & TRAVEL |FIRST CLASS

elephant in musth—massive and moody. Giraﬀes towered gracefully in groups, ostriches bobbed across the plains, and baboons swung through yellow acacia trees (one leaping onto our truck).

Another afternoon, excitement rippled through our group when a member called out “cheetah”—only to realize it was a serval and not its more elusive relative. at same day, two seated warthogs were misidentiﬁed as noble lionesses. at’s one of the great joys of safari: the thrill of spotting wildlife and the playful mix-ups along the way.

We also frequently encountered “Tanzanian roadblocks,”—a wall of wildebeest, a giraﬀe crossing at its own pace, or elephants staging a full-blown mud bath right in the middle of the track. e only thing to do was watch, wait, and revel in the moment.

A true treat was glimpsing the early stirrings of the Great Migration—herds on the move, calves in tow, the air alive with sound and dust. Our guide joked that wildebeests are like “spare parts” animals: a grasshopper’s face; a hyena’s body; an antelope’s legs; a giraﬀe’s tail; and a lion’s mane all pieced together.

At dusk, the Serengeti glowed golden. Nights came alive with the guttural calls of big cats and the rustling of hyenas denning just beneath our rocky outcropping. By dawn, the view from the reception felt nothing short of spiritual.

e Serengeti wasn’t merely beautiful—it was awe-inspiring.

Fourth Stop: Elewana The Manor at Ngorongoro

Hopping back on our comfortable SkySafari plane for a brief 45-minute ﬂight, we enjoyed magniﬁcent views of the Ngorongoro Crater. is UNESCO-listed sanctuary, shaped by ancient volcanic activity, is the largest intact caldera on Earth and a remarkable haven of biodiversity.

Our accommodation was an opulent estate nestled in the highlands, with whitewashed cottages dotting manicured grounds surrounded by coﬀee plantations.

With its Cape Dutch architecture, roaring ﬁreplaces, and elegant gardens, the estate felt like a European compound.

e Manor boasts a full-service spa, pool, charming horse stables, and plantation rides. As horses grazed nearby, we often relaxed in Adirondack chairs overlooking the vast vegetable garden.

Inside our cottage, a wood-burning ﬁreplace crackled beneath vaulted ceilings, a carafe of sherry waited on a tray, and the bathroom was palatial.

Refreshed and ready the next morning, we descended the switchback roads into the Ngorongoro Crater, where more than 30,000 animals thrive.

We saw lounging lions, scores of elephants, pink ﬂamingos wading in Lake Magadi, and seven black rhinos—including a baby. On a previous trip to Botswana, I’d been told rhinos in that country were under military protection due to poaching. To see them move so freely in Tanzania felt remarkable.

We ended our crater safari with a gourmet picnic beside a hippo-ﬁlled lake, the air full of the bush’s musical calls. at evening, a rose-scented bath awaited in our Victorian tub, windows open to the crisp evening air.

On our last night, we dined ﬁreside in the Manor’s grand dining room, savoring a ﬁve-course tasting menu. e night

culminated with a wonderful serenade, followed by a danceoﬀ between the staﬀ and fellow travelers. A heartfelt end to an extraordinary stay.

Final Night: Elewana Arusha Co ee Plantation

Our return by plane to Arusha was bittersweet as it meant our private plane adventures and time in Tanzania were coming to an end. However, we were so happy to see Simon, our Arusha butler, and partake once again in the generous and delicious breakfast served at the reception building’s Bistro Café. For our ﬁnal dinner in Tanzania, we opted for a garden-side meal where we dined amid the aroma of coﬀee beans and the chattering of monkeys.

Elewana

From coffee plantation to treetop perch, from vintage-style tent to European-style manor, each Elewana property has its own unique charm. Yet across these varied settings, two things remained constant—the exceptional cuisine and impeccable service. Every meal was fresh, flavorful, and artfully presented, and at each stop, the gracious staff and attentive butlers made us feel not just welcomed but pampered.

As we boarded our ﬂight home, the rhythm of Tanzania lingered within us. We came seeking adventure and left with something deeper: reverence for the beauty and interconnectedness of nature.

So, say jambo (“hello” in Swahili) to a land where everything is taken poli poli (“slowly, slowly”) and where each day is met with a heartfelt asante (“thank you”). Hakuna matata (“no worries”), indeed.

SKYSAFARI

We found SkySafari to be a seamless, luxurious way to experience Tanzania that maximized our time in the bush. With fast-track airport service, private plane travel, and handpicked camps, every detail was expertly managed. Even better? SkySafari supports community-led initiatives through the Land & Life Foundation, which ensures that tourism delivers tangible beneﬁts by building schools and clinics, funding conservation education for local children, mitigating human-wildlife conﬂict, and helping safeguard East Africa’s iconic landscapes for generations to come.

For more information, visit elewanacollection.com and skysafari.com.

SkySafari plane

The Manor’s swimming pool

Aerial view of The Manor

Relentless Advocacy. Proven Results. Strategic Representation.

When the stakes are high, you need more than a lawyer. You need a strategist. At The Law Office of Fedor Kozlov, P.C., we represent clients throughout the Northwest Suburbs whose divorces involve complex financial and personal matters.

Divorce can be one of life’s most challenging transitions. Our firm is known for precise preparation, strategic thinking, and a commitment to achieving the best possible outcome. Whether your case involves business interests, property division, or contested financial issues, we bring clarity and strength to every stage of the process.

Attorney Fedor Kozlov is respected for his litigation skills and practical approach to negotiation. When cooperation is possible, he helps clients reach efficient resolutions through mediation. When it is not, he is prepared to fight for your interests in court with focus and determination.

We provide representation that combines strength with discretion, ensuring your rights, assets, and peace of mind are protected from start to finish.

RUG CLEANING

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Rugport has an inventory of over 10,000 rugs. We are the largest handmade rug store in the Midwest and are among the top ten in the nation. We offer a wide range of handmade rugs from around the world, including antique, traditional, modern, contemporary, and transitional styles.

In addition to our extensive selection of rugs, our services include custom handmade rug creation, repair, restoration, stair rug installation, nano rug protection, and cleaning.

We are also pleased to feature unique antique accessories and furniture curated by Lee Youngstrom of Barrington, in collaboration with Irongate Designs, exclusively at RUGPORT.

SQUEEZE ME

An ode to the simple, sunny brilliance of the lemon, this is a oneof-a-kind cookbook and collaboration between Ruthie Rogers, the celebrated chef behind London’s River Café, and Ed Ruscha, one of the most inﬂuential contemporary artists and bookmakers of our time, who cultivates a lemon grove at his home in Los Angeles. In the hands of Rogers and Ruscha, the humble lemon is transformed into the ultimate kitchen hero. Packed with 50 inventive recipes, the book casts the lemon as the star of sweet and savory dishes alike. Whether you are whipping up a creamy risotto al limone, baking a showstopping lemon tart, or brightening a salad with a burst of citrus, Rogers’s signature style makes every recipe, from appetizers to mains, approachable and unforgettable.

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Squeeze Me. Published by Assouline.

CBLUEPRINT FOR SUCCESS

WORDS BY DR. JAMES T. GAVRILOS

the dentist has all of the information, the patient’s teeth are scanned and emailed to the laboratory for the next step.

osmetic and restorative dentistry is like many other ﬁelds. It requires planning and execution with a talented team that can perform their individual responsibilities. One of the members of this team is the laboratory technician that helps create the blueprint for a new smile.

When creating a new smile for a patient, the dentist listens to the patient’s concerns and reviews expectations with them. ey will sit together and look at close-up photographs of the “before” smile and list all the changes that need to be made. is includes length, width, color, shape, translucency, position, and gum relationships. e patient is encouraged to bring photographs of smiles they like so we can use it as a communication tool. Once

Dental technicians had to use impressions of teeth when making the blueprint for a new smile. ey used wax that they added to the models of the teeth and then carved the wax into the shape of what the new teeth should look like. is was called a “wax-up.” Today we use a digital scan of the teeth and the blueprint is created digitally. e technician can merge the new design into photographs of the patient so that we can see if our cosmetic goals are being met. Once the dentist approves the digital blueprint, the technician digitally prints models and guides for the dentist to use while he is preparing the teeth for their new cosmetic restorations. is process is such an advantage for the patient. When they visit for their preparation appointment, they leave with temporary restorations that look exactly like the blueprint. ey get an entire week to smile with them, eat with them and speak with them. At their one week follow up visit, we ask if there are any changes they would like to make. In most cases, the answer is no but if they wish to make a change in length or shape, we can make those changes in the temporary restorations. Once the patient approves, we scan the temporary restorations and send it to the lab so that they know exactly how to make the ﬁnal porcelain restorations. is way there are no surprises and the patient ends up with the smile of their dreams.

Dr. James T. Gavrilos is accredited with AACD. His o ce is located at 129 Park Avenue in Barrington. For more information, call 847-381-4040 or visit barringtondentist.com.

Vacation Legs are Made in the Winter

Have your legs looking and feeling great in time for spring vacations.

Vein Specialists of Illinois, a locally owned, independent medical practice is a leader in non-surgical, personalized treatment of venous disorders. VSI serves your community with two convenient locations in Lake Zurich and Elgin. Trusted professionals Dr. Sorenson and Dr. Lutz are double Board Certified, and Diplomates of the American Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine with a combined 35+ years experience. Utilizing the most current equipment and latest techniques to treat varicose and spider veins, VSI professionals will change the way you look and feel with minimally invasive procedures.

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Varicose Veins • Spider Veins • Venous Ulcers

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25 ROLLING HILLS DRIVE

$3.15 million BARRINGTON, ILLINOIS

Discover contemporary elegance in this custom home on over 5 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds. A striking glass entry opens to 10-foot-ceilings, European windows, and rich engineered hardwood ﬂoors.

The Details: 5 Bedrooms, 5.1 Baths • 6,000 square feet, $525 per square foot • Saltwater pool, hot tub, ﬁve-car heated garage with dual EV chargers and 14-foot ceilings Contact: Jacqueline Harding, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Starck Real Estate, 847-436-5254

e gourmet kitchen boasts high-end appliances, custom cabinetry, a Miele coﬀee station, and a 12-seat island. Smart home features include Sonos audio, Lutron lighting, and gated entry. e ﬁnished lower level features a wet bar, gym, guest suite, and steam bath.

CAPE TOWN $3.3 Million

SOUTH AFRICA

n a picturesque location on the outskirts of Cape Town, this exclusive estate on an approximately 90,000-squarefoot property features expansive outdoor spaces including a swimming pool, covered veranda, sun terrace, and BBQ area. Spanning multiple levels, the residence oﬀers six en-suite

The Details: 6 Bedrooms, 6 Baths • 11,786 square feet, $279 per square foot Contact: Paul Turner, Engel & Völkers Camps Bay, 27(0) 84 986 5924

bedrooms, a grand entrance hall, and several living areas with direct access to the outdoors. A particular highlight is the integrated equestrian infrastructure, including stables and a riding arena.

$3.3 million

Located just steps from downtown Cascais in a very quiet area, this detached house, fully renovated with top-quality materials, sits on a generous lot. It oﬀers tranquility

The Details: 3 Bedrooms, 4 Baths • 3,186 square feet, $1,036 per square foot Contact: Engel & Völkers Cascais, +351 214 860 176

combined with proximity to vibrant Cascais, with all its shops and beaches just a few minutes’ walk away.

Healthy Mouth → Healthy Body

Your mouth is the mirror of the rest of your body. What is your body trying to tell you?

Your oral health directly impacts your heart health, immune system, fitness, mental health, and risk for chronic illness, among other things.

How does Root Dental do dentistry differently?

A whole-body approach to dentistry

More time with each patient

Focus on getting to the root cause

The most up-to-date technology. 3D CBCT X-Rays Saliva Testing Digital Intraoral Scans

Dental care built to last!

We believe in personalized treatment based on what you WANT and need!

OFFICE OF MAGGIE GROTHE, DMD

What our Patients are Saying:

“Root Dental has now become my new dentist. Their attention to detail, professionalism, courtesy and understanding of the new technology that’s emerged in the field of dentistry is unmatched.

Dr. Grothe is my dentist for life!” - Matt

“Root Dental continues to offer outstanding dental care appointment after appointment. I know that they will work with me to address my dental needs in a systematic way that is supportive to all of my other needs as well! Thank you, Root Dental!” - Nicole

Physical Activity is Essential to Healthy Aging.

WORDS BY CHIRAG PATEL, M.D., CEO, HANSA MEDICAL GROUPE

As we get older, our energy levels decrease, our bones become frail, and our risk of falling increases. Having a smart exercise regime is a recommendation for our senior patients to prevent some of these problems.

It’s important for seniors to stay active and move more and sit less during any given day. Moderate intensity activities include walking briskly (3-miles-per-hour speed), water aerobics, biking, tennis, ballroom dancing, and general gardening. Vigorous intensity exercise includes race walking, swimming laps, jump roping, heavy gardening or uphill hiking.

A good way to measure your intensity is by the target heart rate. We estimate between 64-76 percent of the maximum heart rate. For moderate-intensity physical activity, the age-related heart rate would be calculated as 220-50 = 170 beats per minute (bpm). 64 to 76 percent of that level would be 109 to 129 bpm. For vigorous-intensity physical activity, the percentages are higher at 77 to 93 percent or

142 to 172 bpm in that same example.

It is important to know how to check your heartrate. First, stop exercising brieﬂy to take your pulse. You can take your pulse at your neck, wrist, or chest. We recommend the wrist. You can feel the radial pulse on the artery of the wrist in line with the thumb. Place the tips of the index and middle ﬁngers over the artery and press lightly. Do not use the thumb as it has its own pulse. Take a full 60-second count of the heartbeat or take for 30 seconds and multiply by two.

e recommendation for older adults is around 30 minutes, ﬁve days per week of moderate intensity activity like brisk walking. Along with this, two days a week of muscle strengthening and improving balance type exercises.

Seniors may have limitations to exercise from medical problems like hip fractures, stroke, or osteoarthritis. Physical therapy can be an important resource to help design a speciﬁc exercise program that ﬁts the limitations. Many of the senior communities we visit our patients in have great exercise programs, gait and balance activities, and on-site physical therapy.

ere are great ways to be physically active while still socially distancing. ese include household chores, increased activity or exercise while watching TV, or outdoor activities like walking, light to moderate yard work, and housecleaning.

Working closely with your physician is also very important. is will help maximize exercise goals while protect you from further potential injury. Hansa Medical Groupe has o ces at 5250 Old Orchard Road, Suite 300, in Skokie, and in Chicago, 847-920-0902, hansamedicalgroupe.com.

WITH @JWCMEDIAGROUP ON INSTAGRAM

Ashcraft’s Watercraft— Herself

Barrington High School graduate and Barrington Middle School Prairie Campus science teacher Kate Ashcraft races in the historic Chicago River Swim.

WORDS BY BILL MCLEAN / ILLUSTRATION BY TOM BACHTELL

The former “slowest runner on the Barrington High School girls’ cross-country team” swam fast enough to earn a spot in September’s historic Chicago River Swim.

Kate Ashcraft, a Class of 1993 Barrington High School (BHS) graduate and a seventh-grade science teacher at Barrington Middle School Prairie Campus, now has something in common with Tarzan.

More precisely, Ashcraft shares a bond with Johnny Weissmuller, the actor who portrayed the Ape Man in 12 movies and competed in the Chicago River Swim in 1927—the last time the event was held.

“ e energy was amazing that day,” says Ashcraft of September 21, when she churned two miles with some 500 other qualiﬁed open-water swimmers.

With the river at its cleanest levels on record, the Chicago River Swim was a milestone for the City of Big Shoulders, celebrating environmental progress, community impact, and a renewed connection to the river.

e swimmers heard the start gun at the Dearborn State Bridge and ﬁnished under the Clark Street Bridge.

“To get to see the city and its wonderful architecture, from the perspective of a Chicago River swimmer, is something I’ll never forget,” Ashcraft recalls. “Plus, we raised funds for ALS research and promoted youth swimming safety.

“It ranks way up there, top three, in the experiences I’ve had as an athlete,” adds the triathlete and regular Ironman racer.

e ALS-research component of the Chicago River Swim has a Barrington connection. Barrington’s Doug McConnell—a worldclass open water swimmer and co-founder of the nonproﬁt A Long Swim—served as the event’s organizer. ALS is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that often begins with muscle twitching and weakness in an arm or leg. Fittingly, A Long Swim and the Chicago River Swim raise money for ALS research through a sport that engages all muscles.

When Ashcraft was a sixth-grade teacher, one of her students was McConnell’s son, Gordy.

Ashcraft and her husband, David, have two daughters, Abby and Cici. Abby is a freshman at the University of Denver; Cici is a freshman at BHS.

Kate and David, a Californian, ﬁrst met while shopping at the Runner’s High ‘n Tri store in Arlington Heights. ey later trained together ahead of an Ironman race.

As Ironman racers swim 2.4 miles, bike 112 miles, and run 26.2 miles, the future Mr. and Mrs. Ashcraft proved to be a match made in endurance.

“I love training, especially as an open-water swimmer,” Kate says. “I get up early, see the sun rise, and swim. It’s peaceful. Life is hectic, busy. I get to escape from all that when I train.”

In 2000, Ashcraft completed her ﬁrst Ironman at the oval of the speed skating venue used at the 1980 Winter Olympics in Lake Placid, New York.

“I remember thinking, as I ﬁnished running, ‘I’ll never feel this close to being an Olympian as I do now,’” she says.

Another feather in Ashcraft’s proverbial cap is her distinction as the student who brought back the school’s performing mascot, Bronco Billy. So, it is easy to imagine a certain mascot must be snorting and kicking for joy whenever Ashcraft crosses a ﬁnish line.

For more information about the nonpro t A Long Swim, visit alongswim.org.