AskConnie
Today’s market, tomorrow’s move –Q&A
Question: Dear Connie, rates are noisy and headlines keep changing. Should we list now or wait for spring – and what does your team actually do that moves the needle?
Answer: Great question. Today’s Barrington market isn’t boom-or-bust – it’s selective. Well-prepared, well-presented homes still win attention and strong results. Under-prepared listings linger and invite discounting. Inventory is uneven by price band and micro-neighborhood, so precision beats wishful thinking. And no, real estate doesn’t hibernate for the holidays.
Here’s how we create that precision. We start with a white-glove pre-listing inspection to catch surprises before buyers do, prioritize fixes with real ROI, and package receipts and warranties. Then we commission laser-measured floor plans so buyers understand scale and flow in advance – less guessing, more “this works.” Next comes luxury photography and drone, for a magazine-cover look.
You’ll also get personal consultations – roomby-room guidance on what matters now:
mechanicals, roof, comfort and efficiency, and kitchens/baths that photograph and show beautifully. When showings are requested, we require a preapproval letter or (POF) proof of funds and we personally accompany appointments. No lockbox roulette. We highlight upgrades, answer questions in real time, and protect your privacy. (We bring booties and floor mats; you hide the waste-baskets and dog bowls.)
Strategy ties it together. We price to the online search bands buyers actually use, launch midweek to stack weekend demand, and target outreach to top local agents and relocation channels.
For buyers, we apply the same concierge approach: private previews, neighborhood intel beyond comps, contractor access for quick quotes, and negotiation, that balances payment comfort with long-term value.
Bottom line: list when your home is truly launch-ready. With our inspection, laser plans, luxury media, personal consults, and agent-accompanied showings, we don’t just list – we launch. Send your question to “Ask Connie,” and we’ll tailor a game plan that fits your needs.
AIROOM KNOWS KITCHENS
Designed & Built by Airoom
Number One
BROKERAGE FIRM IN BARRINGTON
Barrington’s #1 brokerage f irm is now the world’s leading luxury real estate brand, connecting af f luent buyers and sellers across the globe through Christie’s International Real Estate.
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! ”
CAHILL OWNERS
BRANDON DELFINO & CHRIS MCNELLY
What clients are saying...
“Working with Caroline Cerbus from @properties was an absolute pleasure. She is truly one of the best in her field. She went so far above and beyond throughout the entire process—always responsive, kind, and genuinely caring. Caroline made herself available at a moment’s notice, no matter what we needed, and consistently guided us with expertise and thoughtfulness. Her dedication and professionalism made a potentially stressful experience smooth and enjoyable. I can’t recommend Caroline highly enough—she is truly exceptional!”
K. HOPPE, SEPTEMBER 2025
NOVEMBER 2025
Where the Heart Writes
Santa Burke Trades Real Estate Closings For Book Chapters––And Finds Her Ultimate Fairytale on her Barrington Hills Farm.
Dual Brilliance
Local talent shines in two spotlights: rock vocals and celebrity gems.
Suite Sensation
Former professional race car driver Romeo Kapudija of North Barrington is one of the visionaries behind the eye-popping, Lake Zurichbased Luxe Corso Auto Suites, set to open to wowfilled reviews in 2026.
Romeo Kapudija of Luxe Corsa Auto Suite.
BY KATRINA WITTKAMP
Country vs. Town’s Katie Barry wearing Cinq à Sept, neimanmarcus.com
SHARE #JWCMOMENTS AND MORE
J.W. CONATSER Founder & Publisher
KEMMIE RYAN Executive Projects Director MEGAN WEISBERG Editor-in-Chief
Contributing Editors
Style Director
Contributing Writers
Production Manager
Advertising Account Manager / Graphic Designer
Graphic Designer
Contributing Photographers
Illustrator
Advertising Sales
MICHELLE CROWE, ERIN DONALDSON, MORGAN HOGERTY, DUSTIN O’REGAN
THERESA DEMARIA
THOMAS CONNORS, TRICIA DESPRES, BILL MCLEAN, JANIS MVK, MONICA KASS ROGERS, ANN MARIE SCHIEDLER
DIANE IKO
NATALIE PHILLIPS
ABDON LOERA, SAM SUAREZ
JAMES GUSTIN, IAN MCLEOD, RUNVIJAY PAUL, MONICA KASS ROGERS, EMIL SINANAGIC, KATRINA WITTKAMP
ROBERT RISKO
GRETCHEN BARNARD, JENNIFER STURGEON
How to reach COUNTRY Magazine
ADVERTISING INQUIRIES: ADVERTISING@JWCMEDIA.COM / 847.926.0911
EDITORIAL INQUIRIES: MEGAN.WEISBERG@JWCMEDIA.COM / 847.370.5840
Corporate Headquarters
671 ACADEMY DRIVE, NORTHBROOK, ILLINOIS 60062 JWCMEDIA.COM
COUNTRY Magazine is published 10 times annually by JWC Media.
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. © 2025 JWC Media
EDITOR’S NOTE
Our November issue is one to impress with the amount of local talent highlighted in our community. For starters, there’s Santa Burke, the queen of reinvention who is living her best life as a talented author. Read all about it in “Where the Heart Writes” and then pick yourself up a copy of her newest novel to read on any holiday vacations, or to gift. We dive deep into a conversation with famed Marc Scherer—a wildly talented singer who equally shines as a jeweler; a true multi-faceted creative.
And cover star Romeo Kapudija, a former professional race car driver, is one of the visionaries behind the eye-popping, Lake Zurich-based Luxe Corsa Auto Suites, set to open to in 2026. Look at @countrymagstyle for behind the scenes footage from the photo shoot.
And truly in a nod to the holiday season, all three of the above stories share intel on remarkable gifts for your loved ones this holiday season. And if a surprise getaway is on your holiday wish list, look no further than First Class where we showcase the gorgeous Fairmont Kea Lani on the shores of Maui.
Cheers, Megan Weisberg
Editor-in-Chief megan.weisberg@jwcmedia.com
Views galore at the Fairmont Kea Lani in Wailea, Maui.
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.
Chappy Wrap
UP FRONT
Founded by mother-daughter duo, Beth Dwyer and Christina Livada, the brand’s blueprint was a well-loved family blanket that became more of a family heirloom. From there, ChappyWrap was born, with the mission of creating the best blankets in the world. Uniquely woven with a plush, natural-cotton blend and highperformance fibers, ChappyWrap blankets are crafted in Germany and Poland, and are made to last for the moments that matter. In addition to the stunning classic style, they have created special pieces for babies, childrens, pets, and lightweight blankets in a variety of designs, sizes, and all personalizable. Perfect for the holidays. Find your perfect gift at chappywrap.com.
TEATRO ZINZANNI DEBUTS NEW CHICAGO
Teatro ZinZanni, Chicago’s most unique theatrical and entertainment experience, is thrilled to announce it has debuted a new show, in their antique Spiegeltent located on the 14th floor of the Cambria Hotel in downtown Chicago. Running through spring 2026, the production entertains with a high-flying spectacle, music, and laugh-out-loud comedy. Audiences can expect an international cast that includes Chicago powerhouse vocalist Liv Warfield (recent America’s Got Talent standout), award-winning clown and director Joe De Paul, and world-class cirque artists from across the globe. A new dining program lets guests choose between a full four-course gourmet meal or à la carte small plates and desserts to enjoy during the show. Teatro ZinZanni invites audiences to experience a joyful, unforgettable evening of laughter. Tickets available at zinzanni.com/chicago.
LA PRAIRIE UNVEILS PURE GOLD REVITALIZING ESSENCE
La Prairie, the Swiss luxury skincare house renowned for elevating science to art, proudly unveils its latest creation: the Pure Gold Revitalizing Essence. The newest addition to the iconic Pure Gold Collection, this groundbreaking formulation marks a bold evolution in La Prairie’s pursuit of performance and innovation. Inspired by the complex e ects of hormonal aging—especially the changes that accompany menopause—the Pure Gold Revitalizing Essence is designed to replenish what time and biology may diminish: density, nourishment, comfort, and light. Powered by an advanced delivery system composed of La Prairie’s Exclusive Cellular Complex™, Gold & Peptide Powered Meno Complex, and time-released Glabridin, the Essence addresses skin’s natural loss of density and resilience. This triad of potent ingredients is designed to stimulate collagen-boosting mechanisms, strengthen the skin’s barrier function, and calm sensitivity, all while awakening skin with a luminous, revitalized glow. With consistent use, the skin is visibly transformed: firmer, smoother, comforted, and radiantly alive. Available at laprairie.com.
Venue of Teatro ZinZanni Chicago
PHOTO
HEN PARTY
From one of Britain’s bestselling garden writers comes Hen Party: A Celebration of Fancy Fowl—a lovingly illustrated guide to keeping beautiful chickens, both familiar and rare. In this wonderful collection, gardener, artist, and author Arthur Parkinson distills everything he has learned about his feathered friends into one bite-sized volume, featuring his own watercolor portraits of nearly 60 breeds.
Perfect for backyard keepers, gardeners, or anyone dreaming of a gentler, more sustainable life, Hen Party is part manual, part love letter—and a charming gift for any host. Purchase your copy at rizzoliusa.com.
“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!”
Kacie Ruggio wearing Cinq à Sept, neimanmarcus.com
Originally from Nebraska, Kacie Ruggio moved to Illinois to attend Midwestern University where she received her master’s in Physician Assistant Studies. She met her husband, Nick, shortly after starting her graduate program, and after living in the city for five years they relocated to Barrington. Now, with two children, Caroline (8) and Will (5), Ruggio works as a cardiac surgery physician assistant for Northwestern Medicine Bluhm Cardiovascular Institute and is the Vice President of Fundraising for Roslyn Road Elementary’s Parent Teacher Organization.
EDITED BY MORGAN HOGERTY / PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAMES GUSTIN HAIR AND MAKEUP BY DORIA DEBARTOLO / STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA
Actress to play you in a movie?
Margot Robbie
Person from history to travel with?
Julia Child
Look for inspiration? I go for a long walk outdoors
Favorite book? e Glass Castle
Most beloved cookbook? Anything from Ina Garten
Dinner party hack? No cook appetizers and prepping ahead
What’s in your bag? Supergoop! sunscreen stick, Vaseline, claw clip
Gadget:
KACIE LOVES
Barrington spot:
Scent:
Hostess gift to receive:
Gift to give:
Clockwise: 1 Maison Francis Kurkdjian, Baccarat Rouge 540 Extrait de Parfum, nordstrom.com 2 Monastery, Attar Floral Repair Concentrate, modaoperandi. com 3 Pat McGrath Labs,Skin Fetish Sublime Perfection Foundation, nordstrom.com 4
OAK-TOBERFEST 2025
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF BARRINGTON AREA CONSERVATION TRUST
Under a glowing harvest moon, more than 175 guests gathered for the Barrington Area Conservation Trust’s Oak-Toberfest 2025 at Far Field Nature Preserve—an oak savanna now 11 years into restoration and rarely open to the public. The Biergarten featured craft beers by Wild Onion Brewery, fresh pretzels on arrival, and a hearty German-inspired menu by The Canteen. Guests enjoyed lively performances by Pat McKillen and Wrought Iron Soul, with the bonfire casting a warm glow across the prairie. Board President Matt Vondra and Executive Director Melissa Kinast spoke about BACT’s mission and lasting impact during a night that became the organization’s most successful fundraiser yet. Bactrust.org
Pat McKillen
Ella Redfern, Jenna Trzaska, Monica Redfern
Trzaska Family
Wrought Iron Soul
OAK-TOBERFEST 2025
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF BARRINGTON AREA CONSERVATION TRUST
The Barrington Area Conservation Trust’s Oak-Toberfest 2025 at Far Field Nature Preserve continued into the next day with the Oak-Toberfest Family Restoration Event. Featuring animals in conservation, native seed collection, oak tree planting, expert demonstrations, and children’s crafts, families enjoyed themselves while supporting the cause. Bactrust.org
28 oak trees were planted at Far Field Preserve lead by Davey Tree
Native seed cleaning
Native seed collecting lead by Sarah Voska and Bluestem
Student volunteers collecting native seeds
K+H: Your Multi-State Legal Bridge
When your world extends beyond one state, your lega guidance should too. K+H attorneys are licensed in 19 states, including Arizona, Tennessee, Texas, and Florida. We align property taxes, residency benefits, and estate planning into one seamless strategy—maximizing opportunities and avoiding surprises.
Wherever you go, K+H is the
Winter-Proof Your Windows
Chicago Window Guys helps homeowners beat winter chill with fall window installations.
WORDS AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY MONICA KASS ROGERS
When the owners of a 100-year-old Lake Forest home decided they couldn’t face another drafty winter, they called Russ Armstrong, owner of Chicago Window Guys (CWG).
“ ey’d been thinking about replacing their windows for years,” says Armstrong. “But with 25-year-old, leaky windows and another brutal winter on the way, they didn’t want to wait any longer.”
Quotes from other providers had come in sky-high. But Armstrong—who personally handles all sales calls—was able to offer a significantly better price. By eliminating sales commissions, manufacturing windows locally, and using a trusted in-house crew, CWG keeps overhead low and quality high.
While price mattered, keeping the integrity of the home’s design intact was also important. CWG’s experienced installers carefully maintained the original woodwork and interior casing, preserving the home’s character while dramatically improving energy efficiency.
“ e homeowners were thrilled,” says Armstrong. “And their referrals brought in a dozen more window jobs. at’s the kind of word-of-mouth we’ve built our reputation on.”
Although CWG installs windows year-round, Armstrong says autumn is a great time to have the work done. “You want to get the new windows in before it gets too cold,” he says. “ at way, you enjoy a warmer, more comfortable winter—and start saving on energy bills right away.”
High-quality windows offer more than just curb appeal and clear views. ey’re critical to a home’s energy performance and can reduce heating and cooling costs by up to
30 percent. ey also eliminate drafts, leaks, and moisture problems like mold—issues common in older windows. All CWG windows are custom measured, and custom made—whether you’re replacing classic double-hung windows or upgrading to bow, bay, garden, or projection styles. e products incorporate the latest energy-efficient technologies, including:
• Argon/Krypton gas fills
• Triple low-E silver coatings
• Foam-filled frames
• Non-metal spacing systems that prevent seal failure
“We build a barrier to keep your energy in and the elements out,” Armstrong explains. “We can’t stop the polar vortex from hitting Chicago—but we can definitely keep it out of your living room.”
With a manufacturing facility in Chicago and decades of experience throughout the city and suburbs, CWG understands the demands of Midwest weather and architecture.
e company backs its work with a lifetime warranty on all parts and labor—including glass breakage—and offers a price-match guarantee. “We don’t play the ‘buyone-get-one-free’ game,” says Armstrong. “ at’s just a gimmick. Our prices are fair from the start—for a better product and better installation.”
Armstrong emphasizes that expert installation is just as important as window quality. at’s why CWG doesn’t use subcontractors. “You can have the most expensive window in the world, but if it’s installed poorly, you’re back to square one,” he says. “We use our own crew— people we know and trust—so we can ensure every job is done right.”
He also cuts the fluff from the sales process.
“No three-hour presentations. No pressure to ‘buy today.’ I handle all sales calls myself, so you get straight answers, not sales tactics,” says Armstrong. “Over the years, we’ve built a loyal customer base,” he reflects. “People refer their friends and family, and many become friends themselves. at means everything to us.”
Ready to winter-proof your home with new windows? Call Armstrong directly at 847-302-9171 or visit chicagowindowguys.com.
Russ Armstrong
THE ONE ACRE FUND
PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF THE ONE ACRE FUND
The One Acre Fund hosted its annual Gala at the iconic Café Brauer in Chicago, bringing together more than 240 supporters, partners, and community members for an evening of celebration and impact. Guests enjoyed a vibrant interactive drum performance by world-renowned Senegalese artist Massamba Diop, inspiring stories directly from African farmers whose lives have been transformed by One Acre Fund’s programs, and the opportunity to connect with others committed to advancing food security. The event surpassed all expectations, raising an impressive $1.2 million. These funds will directly expand One Acre Fund’s services to reach more than 67,000 individuals across Kenya, providing access to quality seeds, fertilizer, training, and support. By strengthening smallholder farmers and their families, this investment fosters long-term food security, healthier communities, and greater resilience in the face of economic and climate challenges
Oneacrefund.org
Cafe Brauer
Massamaba Diop
Cocktail Hour
Katie Petric, Tom Petric, Steven Alessandro, James Wesner
Jenny Mehlmen, Kristen Hull, Shilpa Hosler, Jordan Shiels, Andrew Youn, Daniel Hosler, Kristen Hull, Kevin Hull, Matt Forti, Keech Combe-Shetty
mytheresa.com
After seven years in Chicago, Katie Barry and her husband, Brandon, chose Barrington to raise their children, seeking a more grounded lifestyle. A Wisconsin native with a master’s in counseling, Barry’s background as an art therapist informs her current passion for holistic wellness. This led her to practicing and teaching Pilates, where she helps others in the community find strength and balance. It’s a philosophy she also applies to her own life as a busy mom of three.
EDITED BY MORGAN HOGERTY / PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATRINA WITTKAMP HAIR AND MAKEUP BY LEANNA ERNEST / STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA
Katie Barry wearing Dolce & Gabbana, neimanmarcus.com
Mantra? I am grateful for today Best grooming tip? Consistently using a red light mask for glowy skin Guilty pleasure? Dark chocolate and peanut butter Favorite foods? Avocado toast, a big green salad, a perfectly grilled steak Music you love? Kygo and Coldplay are my top two favs; saw both in concert this past summer—so fun! Best advice ever given to you? Let go and and let God Best advice you’ve given? I tell my kids to be kind and be a helper to everyone they meet. Earliest memory?
WHEN IN THE COUNTRY
Your style is? Athleisure Can’t leave the house without? Lip gloss, electrolyte water, snacks for the kids (and myself) Transportation? Jeep Wagoneer Driving Music? Whatever my kids are requesting from the backseat Place to eat? Organic Roots Shop? Bente Vintage Best thing about country? Our neighborhood. It is why we fell in love with Barrington Worst thing about country? Getting stuck at the train tracks e perfect day is? Getting outside with my family—whether its riding our bikes through the marsh, playing golf or tennis, or just playing in the backyard
Spending time with my two younger brothers; they are the best Before bed, you? Read What’s on your bookshelf? Romances recommended by Katie @beachreadsandbubbly You can’t live without? My morning matcha and reformer Pilates, both teaching and taking class Love to escape to? Northern Wisconsin and Michigan with family Advice you would give to your younger self? Have faith that it will all work out the way it is meant to
WHEN IN TOWN
Your style is? When we go down to the city it is fun to dress up— wear some pieces that I wouldn’t wear day to day Can’t leave the house without? A small fun bag (that isn’t full of the above mentioned snacks for the kids) and cute comfy shoes so we can walk to all of our favorite spots Transportation? We like to drive into the city, then park the car for the day and walk everywhere Driving music? Best of Kygo on Spotify Place to eat? Fare Shop? Neiman Marcus and the shops on Armitage Best thing about town? e energy. Also visiting our old neighborhood and favorite spots Worst thing about town? Traffic and park ing e perfect day is? Revisiting some of the best memories of living in the city! Lincoln Park Farmer’s Market and Lincoln Park Zoo with the kids, walking around the park and the DePaul neighborhood where my husband and I lived for many years, shopping on Armitage, and ending with dinner at Sapori Trattoria
Coldplay
Look
Petite Frites, Champagne Necklace in Yellow Gold and Sky Blue, petite-frites.com
1 KHAITE, Remo Leather Gloves, mytheresa.com 2 KHAITE, Nevada 85 Calf Hair and Leather Ankle Boots, mytheresa.com 3 DeMellier, Miami Midi Leather Shoulder Bag, mytheresa.com 4 Magda Butrym, Flared Denim Midi Dress, mytheresa.com 5 Valentino Garavani, Locò Mini Embellished Velvet Clutch, mytheresa. com 6 Balenciaga, Fargo 80 Suede Knee-High Boots, mytheresa.com 7 Dries Van Noten, Checked Scarf-Detail Halterneck Top, mytheresa.com 8 Dries Van Noten, Belted High-Rise Wide-Leg Pants, mythersa.com 9 Amina Muaddi, Iris 95 Leather Ankle Boots, mytheresa.com 10 Loewe, Checked Mohair and Wool Miniskirt, mytheresa.com 11 e Row, Leather and Mesh Ankle Boots, mytheresa.com 12 Miu Miu, Mohair and Wool Blouson Jacket, mytheresa.com 13 Alaïa, Le Click Small Suede Shoulder Bag, mytheresa.com 14 MARIE MAS, Aura Ear Jewel Sapphires, mariemas.com 15 Loewe, Logo Aviator Sunglasses, mytheresa. com 16 MARIE MAS, Radiant Ring in Full Pavé, Rose Gold & Diamonds, mariemas.com 17 Oscar de la Renta, Floral-Appliqué Cotton-Blend Tweed Midi Dress, mytheresa.com 18 Acne Studios, Canda Wool Scarf, mytheresa.com 19 McQueen, Carnation Knuckle Satin Clutch, mytheresa.com 20 ROKSANDA, alys Sequined Maxi Dress, mytheresa.com 21 Prada, Petit Sac Re-Nylon Bucket Bag, mytheresa.com 22 Manolo Blahnik, Aliera 50 Suede Ankle Boots, mytheresa.com 21 22 19 20 14 17 18 16 15
Strength. Strategy. Sophistication
High-Asset Divorce Representation
When a marriage involves significant wealth, businesses, or complex investments, divorce becomes more than an emotional transition; it becomes a financial crossroads. The Law Office of Fedor Kozlov, P.C. helps high-net-worth individuals protect what they’ve built and preserve what matters most.
High-asset divorces require discretion, precision, and strategy. Our team handles business valuations, asset tracing, real estate division, and uncovering hidden income with the same sophistication and attention to detail our clients bring to their own success.
Attorney Fedor Kozlov brings balance to every case—resolving disputes through negotiation when possible and litigating when necessary. His focus is not only on results but also on providing peace of mind throughout the process.
For those who have built a life of success, experience matters. At The Law Office of Fedor Kozlov, P.C., you will find legal excellence and a trusted advocate for your financial and personal future.
In high-stakes divorces, every detail tells a story, our job is to ensure yours ends with strength, dignity, and clarity
Where the Heart
Santa Burke in model’s own with Cedric, her horse.
Writes
Santa Burke Trades Real Estate Closings For Book Chapters––And Finds Her Ultimate Fairytale on her Barrington Hills Farm.
WORDS BY TRICIA DESPRES PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAMES GUSTIN STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA HAIR AND MAKEUP BY DORIA DEBARTOLO
Santa Burke spent her childhood under the bright lights of the stage and her adulthood amid the quiet beauty of her Barrington Hills farm. But perhaps she’s happiest when she’s in her office that overlooks her pastures, giving voice to the stories she’s long tucked away in her own heart.
“ at office is my writing sanctuary,” Burke shares. “ is is by far the best chapter of my own life.”
Known best to friends and family as the “queen of reinvention,” Burke recently put a longtime career in real estate behind her in favor of a life not only as an equestrian, but also an author. Her debut novel Friendly Betrayal tells the story of Sabrina, a devoted wife and loyal friend who finds herself at a crossroads when she is drawn into a passionate affair with a handsome stranger––a man who was meant to be her best friend Caroline’s new love interest.
“I was driving home back to Barrington from Lake Bluff after a wine night with a friend, and I was just thinking about our conversation about her finding a man, and all of a sudden, I knew I had a story, this story, to write,” she remembers of the backbone of Friendly Betrayal. “I opened up my computer and I sat down and I wrote, and I wrote, and I wrote. And for some reason it just all came to me––like it was a story I was always meant to tell.”
It was also a story that hit close to home for Burke.
“Life isn’t all about white picket fences,” she says quietly. “Everybody’s got a story. Nothing in life goes that easily. e majority of us are far from perfect.”
But on the outside, life did look perfect for Burke, whose creative career began as a child actress, singing in piano bars on Rush Street at the age of 9. “I did plays and commercials, but it was in this children’s acting class that I took that really sparked my imagination,” remembers Burke, who grew up on the West Side of Chicago. “ ere was always improvisational time, where we would just get up and make up stories. And I lived for that. I loved it.”
very differently.
“I remember one day, I was sitting on the deck and noticed that a robin had built a nest back there in a honeysuckle bush,” she recalls of a time shortly after her divorce. “I watched her lay eggs and have babies, and one by one, I watched them leave the nest.”
It was a similar story to the one Burke says she found herself living at the time, as her children too were finding their own ways in their own lives. So, she wrote a story about it. And with that her love of writing returned.
“My resilience has gotten me through a lot of things that I have faced,” Burke explains. “I’ve always told my children––when you hit a wall, bounce. Because life is going to throw a lot at you, and you’ve got to go with it. Nothing is forever. Even the bad times are going to pass.”
“Everybody’s got a story. Nothing in life goes that easily.
The majority of us are far from perfect.”
As a teen, Burke loved modeling and going to her English classes in high school and her journalism classes in college––and even had one of her stories published in a Chicago newspaper. But soon, those dreams of writing took a back seat to marriage and kids and the complexities that come with both.
“I was living that life, and I kind of just let everything else go,” Burke says quietly.
In 2000, Burke divorced.
“When I got married, I was judgmental about divorced people and thought this is never going to be me,” she remembers. “And then, one day I woke up and I was like, ‘ is isn’t working. I need to move on.’”
So, she did. And soon after she did, Burke says she found herself looking at the world around her
Today, the 63-year-old finds herself remarried to her high school sweetheart and loving on her horses and writing a much-anticipated sequel to Friendly Betrayal called Call to Forgive. But at the very same time, as she now finds herself surrounded by five horses, three chickens, three dogs, and one cat, Burke admits that she often wonders aloud if she can truly make it as a self-published author in this overly connected world.
“I still have moments where I doubt myself,” she concludes. “ ere was a time when I had imposter syndrome big time. But that feeling passed, and I now feel comfortable saying ‘I wrote a book and I am an author.’ I think the universe has put all these pieces for me together in the third trimester of my life, and it’s the best feeling in the whole world to finally be settled.”
Purchase your copy of Friendly Betrayal at barnesandnoble.com.
DUAL BRILLIANCE
Local talent shines in two spotlights: rock vocals, and celebrity gems.
WORDS BY MONICA KASS ROGERS
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JAMES GUSTIN
STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA
As a kid growing up on the family farm in Pea Ridge, Arkansas, Marc Scherer spent his free time searching for hidden treasures. After the chores were done, he unearthed everything from Native American arrow heads and Civil War buttons to quartz crystals—relics that sparked a lifelong fascination with both history and gemology.
But young Scherer never imagined those childhood discoveries would set the stage for a double life in the spotlight—as a rock vocalist touring with legends, and as a celebrated jewelry designer whose creations have adorned Hollywood greats and graced major museum collections.
As a designer, Scherer has done jewelry for stars from Uma urman to Michael J. Fox. And several of his stunning necklaces, including one he designed for a 56-carat, color-change sapphire, are part of the Chicago Field
Marc Scherer
Museum’s Grainger Hall of Gems.
As a singer Scherer has worked with stellar talents such as Jennifer Batten (Michael Jackson/Jeff Beck), David Pack (Ambrosia), Bill Champlin (Chicago), Mindi Abair, Sammy Hagar, and John Wetton (Asia, King Crimson, Uriah Heep.) And Scherer’s musical talent recently meant teaming with Grammy-winning songwriter Jim Peterik on the title track for a new action-Western drama. Called Black Creek, the movie—by martial artist and action star Cynthia Rothrock, is now streaming on Prime Video, Fandango At Home, Apple TV, and Tubi TV.
Scherer’s first move into these careers came when his family relocated to the Chicago area. “It was like stepping into another world,” he recalls. Fascinated by precious stones, he studied gemology at the Gemological Institute of America and learned jewelry making under a master jeweler and sculptor, honing his craft at the Evanston Art Center. At just 16, he moved into a crowded Chicago brownstone with other young artists across from the studio— claiming a space under the stairs for a bedroom. “I was basically the original Harry Potter,” he laughs. en came the music. One day, singing along to the radio in his friend’s sister’s car, Scherer caught the sister’s attention. “She turned the radio down to hear me,” Scherer says. “I was embarrassed, but she insisted on introducing me to this band that needed a frontman.” at band became Lovecraft, and Scherer’s powerhouse voice soon took center stage.
a four-to-five octave range.) Jim and I liked the effect. It struck a familiar chord with Rothrock, and she branded it as her theme song.”
But Scherer’s movie connections didn’t stop at soundtracks. anks to friendships forged in the music world—including a former Pink Floyd sound engineer— he began designing custom jewelry for film productions. His work has appeared in movies such as e Muse, Gattaca and Mercury Rising, and he even designed an elaborate ceremonial chalice for Game of rones is high-profile work led to an invitation to submit designs for jewelry pieces using historic gems in the Field Museum’s collection. “ e museum wanted to make its rare gems more accessible to people by having jewelers set the stones in jewelry to be included in the Grainger Hall of Gems, and they liked my designs,” Scherer explains. One of the gems, a very large sapphire, had been one of the original donations to the museum from the Chicago World’s Fair. “As I spent time with that million-dollar gem, I realized I was seeing something that no one else had ever noticed. It was an extremely rare color-change sapphire—one of the world’s largest. So, then the museum staff started calling me Indiana Jones, credited me with the discovery and gave me the opportunity to name the gem the Serendipity Sapphire. It was one of my proudest moments as a jeweler.”
“I think of our minds as an open window that you allow light to enter...”
Scherer’s talent caught the attention of iconic guitarist and songwriter Jim Peterik (founder of Survivor and co-writer of “Eye of the Tiger”). e two met in recording studios throughout the ‘80s, but it wasn’t until years later—through a chance meeting at Peterik’s home studio—that they finally began working together.
“Jim walked in, and as he had done three times before, said I had a great voice and asked for my number. is time though, I said, ‘No!’ reminding him he’d asked for my number several times but never called,” Scherer laughs, remembering. at broke the ice, and the two went on to collaborate on two albums and numerous songs—Scherer often serving as Peterik’s demo vocalist, and Peterik as chief songwriter on Scherer’s records.
eir most recent collaboration—the title track for Black Creek, was a Peterik-Scherer experiment in falsetto. “More pop than rock, the song, ‘You’re Scaring Me,’ featured something I had never tried before,” says Scherer. “Falsetto on notes I could easily hit in natural voice. (Scherer has
But the movie connections paved the way for even more. “I think of movie companies as a kind of traveling circus,” says Scherer. “Once they know you are creative and reliable they call you for all sorts of things.”
Scherer has been cast in several of the films he’s contributed to, including Black Creek, where he rides into battle with the cavalry atop a horse named Black Powder. In the upcoming sequel, Black Creek II, Scherer will return to the screen, reprising that role, but also with a fight scene.
Whether he’s on stage, behind the studio glass, or at the jeweler’s bench, Scherer sees a common thread in all his creative work: inspiration.
“ e act of creation is an inspired work whether in music or visually,” he says. “I think of our minds as an open window that you allow light to enter and then try to do something meaningful with” he says. “Singing, for me, is a gift—and like all gifts, it’s best when you give it back. Honestly, I’d do it for free. (But shhh, don’t tell anyone!)”
Marc Scherer and his designs can be found at LuxuryBridge@ gmail.com.
BLESSING OF THE HOUNDS
Lord, we gather in Your creation, humbled by its beauty and the life You’ve placed within it. We thank You for the morning light, for the strength to ride, and for the fellowship that binds us in Your care. Bless this land we cross, and the hands that guide horse and hound alike. Let every breath and hoofbeat give glory to You—the Maker of all things wild and good. Keep us safe in body and steady in spirit, that our joy in the field would honor the One who gave it.
Cerbus wearing alice + olivia red jacket and white pants, neimanmarcus.com, Kapudija in model’s own.
SENS ATION Suite
For former racing driver Romeo Kapudija, precision never retired with the helmet. Luxe Corsa is his next circuit drawn in glass, steel, and intent.
WORDS BY WOLFGANG WALTERSON
PHOTOGRAPHY BY KATRINA WITTKAMP
STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA
For North Barrington’s Romeo Kapudija, the year 2026 looms like the double apex of a perfect corner—one line personal, the other professional. e former professional racing driver will marry fiancée Caroline Cerbus in Split, Croatia, and—almost in the same breath—watch the culmination of a long-held ambition take shape in concrete, glass, and gasoline: Luxe Corsa Auto Suites, a 21-acre automotive sanctuary rising on Rand Road in Lake Zurich, Illinois.
“Corsa” in Italian means “race,” but the Latin root carries a subtler meaning—precision and performance—the twin ideas that have governed Kapudija’s life. He is the mind behind a new breed of car culture campus: part private club, part engineering cathedral, part art installation dedicated to the motorcar and those who truly understand it.
At its address—24455 US Route 12—Luxe Corsa will house 11 buildings containing 121 bespoke auto suites. ere will be a 20,000-square-foot clubhouse fitted out like a modern grand-touring hotel: bourbon and cigar rooms, a tranquillity spa, flexible offices, high-tech conference suites, even racing and golf simulators. Outside, pedestrian paths thread through manicured acreage; inside, there’s talk of an independent hyper-car dealership and a partnership with a Formula 1 team.
Adding caffeine and conversation to the mix is Imperial Moto Café, the Miami-born roaster and motoring-community brand bringing its petrol-scented sociability north. “We wanted a place where serious enthusiasts could meet, talk, and live the car life year-round,” says Kapudija. “Luxe Corsa isn’t storage—it’s belonging.” e obsession began when Romeo was 7, pedalling furiously around BMX tracks before graduating to the far more combustible world of go-karts. By his late teens, he was in open-wheel racing, debuting in the Toyota Atlantic Series at e Long Beach Grand Prix and later competing in CART events across the country.
Between 1999 and 2010, he raced professionally for a dozen teams, including one co-owned by the late Walter Payton. For two seasons his teammate was actor-driver Patrick Dempsey, the pair campaigning under the Supercuts Racing banner. In 2010, he drove full-time in the American Le Mans Series’ GTC class with Alex Job Racing, taking second at the 12 Hours of Sebring—a team sweep that still raises eyebrows in the paddock.
At 6-ft-2, Kapudija was never the archetypal jockey-sized pilot, but his touch was pure finesse: smooth inputs, mechanical sympathy, unflappable in the rain. “I felt one with the car,” he recalls. “Euphoria—that’s the word. When everything’s working, you’re at peace, laser-focused and calm.”
Speed wasn’t his only inheritance. e son of Croatian immigrants, he learned early the quiet satisfactions of fixing what was broken. “We had little money,” he says. “My father helped me start a development company. We built condos in Chicago’s East Village when I was barely out of school.”
From those modest beginnings grew a portfolio that would make an architect envious. Kapudija converted churches and schools into award-winning residential spaces, developed e Sanctuary of Lake Zurich—23 townhouses that married craftsmanship with restraint— and later collaborated with celebrity chef Fabio Viviani on LAGO, the Italian steakhouse that opened in 2024 to a packed house. He also co-owns Paintball Explosion in East Dundee, a curious but thriving enterprise expanding to Gurnee in 2026.
“When everything’s working, you’re at peace, laser-focused and calm.”
For him, building and racing were never separate pursuits. “Both are about reading conditions and reacting fast,” he says. “If you get the setup right, everything else flows.”
Kapudija met Caroline Cerbus in 1995. A former state-champion soccer goalkeeper for Libertyville High, she went on to a career in marketing before founding her own agency. Today she serves as Luxe Corsa’s Director of Sales and Marketing—and, as Romeo cheerfully admits, his counterbalance.
“Romeo’s the visionary,” she says. “I’m the one making sure each detail lines up. He sees beyond the horizon; I make sure the wheels stay on the ground.”
Together they’ve built a partnership that runs on equal
parts creativity and discipline—the same chemistry that fuels the project itself. eir wedding in Split will be a pause between laps; the flag drops again the moment they return to Illinois.
Every corner of Luxe Corsa bears Kapudija’s fingerprints. e main artery is christened Road America Lane, a nod to his beloved circuit in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin. “It’s my favorite track,” he says. “Fast, flowing, honest. Naming the road after it felt right.”
Construction drawings reveal a campus that’s more sculptural than industrial: glass façades, steel ribs, low horizontal lines echoing a long-bonneted GT at rest. Each suite can be customised—mezzanines for lounges, glass walls for viewing, humidity-controlled bays for preservation. “We’re honoring the collector’s passion,” he says, “but we’re also giving it an environment worthy of that passion.”
Unlike many storage concepts that isolate owners behind roll-up doors, Luxe Corsa aims to create interaction. “It’s about community as much as cars,” Kapudija says. e inclusion of Imperial Moto Café underscores that philosophy: a place where enthusiasts can trade laps
and lattes, share stories, plan drives. Miami’s Imperial Moto has spent a decade nurturing exactly that atmosphere—equal parts espresso and octane—and will now bring its cultural horsepower to the Midwest. “Cars, coffee, conversation—it’s universal,” says Kapudija. “ at’s what we’re importing: authenticity.”
Luxe Corsa’s progress has been buoyed by the Village of Lake Zurich’s cooperative spirit. Kapudija is quick to credit Mayor Tom Poynton and his staff for their receptiveness. “ ey’ve been fantastic,” he says. “Lake Zurich’s growing fast, and they understand what this can bring—jobs, visibility, pride. We’re building something the community can point to and say, ‘ at’s ours.’”
Kapudija’s dual identity—Croatian grit and American drive— threads through every decision. “My father used to say, ‘Work until what you imagine becomes real,’” he recalls. “ at’s still the goal.”
With investors that include members of the Duchossois and Fortino families, Luxe Corsa carries the quiet weight of legacy—a meeting point between speed, structure, and faith in what endures.
Luxe Corsa is less a vanity project than a summing-up of everything that’s defined him: competition, craftsmanship, and the pursuit of perfection. It’s also a way of giving back to the culture that shaped him. “Racing taught me precision; development taught me patience. is place joins the two.”
Scheduled to open in 2026, Luxe Corsa will debut alongside a host of expansions, new restaurants, new developments—but few projects
Cerbus wearing alice + olivia red jacket and white pants, neimanmarcus.com.
Kapudija wearing model’s own.
will so neatly fuse speed and sophistication. e renderings alone have sparked a buzz usually reserved for supercar launches.
If all goes to plan, by late 2026 the engines will echo again in Lake Zurich—not in competition but celebration. “We’re creating a destination,” says Kapudija, standing amid the hum of groundwork and machinery. “It’ll be the place where car culture meets architecture. A place where passion has a home.”
Cerbus calls it their shared masterpiece. “When I see the designs, the spaces, the energy, I think—this is us,” she says. “It’s everything we love, built to last.”
Kapudija smiles. “I’ve driven with legends,” he says. “Now I get to build something for the next generation of dreamers. at’s the real victory.”
In 2026 he’ll cross two finish lines—one with Caroline in Croatia, the other in Lake Zurich. Both, in their way, are about precision, performance, and heart.
Keep your eye on the horizon: Luxe Corsa Auto Suites is already accelerating toward first place.
For updates, visit luxecorsa.com or follow on Instagram @LuxeCorsa. O cial partners include Imperial Moto Co ee.
Kapudija in racing gear with Cerbus wearing an Oscar de la Renta dress, neimanmarcus.com.
FOOD & TRAVEL
FIRST-CLASS DINING AND TRAVEL EXPERIENCES
Experience the magic of Maui and upon return, bake a scrumptious Italian apple cake.
Golden hour at the Fairmont Kea Lani in Wailea Maui.
ITALIAN APPLE CAKE
(Torta di Mele)
WORDS, STYLING, AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY MONICA KASS ROGERS
RECIPE|
“Eight Red Astrakan, two Wilton Twig, three Hubbardston Nonsuch, one Keswick Codlin …” e orchard plan from a page in Joseph Gundry’s 1869 daybook reads like a fantasy of heritage apples. But if you visit Gundry’s former estate in Mineral Point, Wisconsin, these apples no longer exist—gone along with three quarters of the 17,000 apple varieties that used to thrive in the United States. In ongoing efforts to turn this around, orchardists and plant geneticists have succeeded in bringing some heritage apple varieties back from the brink.
at means you’re more likely to find them at farmers markets this season! is beautiful, easy-to-make vintage apple cake is the perfect showcase for any of them. Made with simple ingredients that allow the apple flavors to stand out, the cake is tall and tender.
Known as Torta di Mele in Italy, the cake goes back centuries, with all sorts of regional variations. Some mix in nuts or dried fruit. Others add cinnamon or a fancy spiral of sliced fruit on top. But all versions keep apples at the cake’s core.
several cakes as part of our testing. One shown in the main photo was made with easily obtainable Honeycrisp. Another (shown in the ingredient photo) was made with heirloom Discovery apples from Nichols Farm in Marengo, Illinois. ese apples originated in Essex, England in 1949 and are a cross between Worcester Pearmain and Beauty of Bath apples. Our tests showed that any apple will do.
Our delicious version requires just one mixing bowl and a handful of ingredients: butter, flour, sugar, eggs, milk, yeast and plenty of fresh chopped apples. Oh, and a sprinkling of lemon zest, of course! We baked
SERVES 8 (MAKES ONE, TALL 9-INCH CAKE)
INGREDIENTS
• 1, 9-inch springform cake tin
• Baking parchment paper
• 2 cups flour
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1 pkg. instant yeast to measure just under 1 Tbsp
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 ½ sticks (3/4 cup) softened butter
• Zest of two fresh lemons
• 3 eggs
• 1/3 cup lightly warmed (room temperature) milk
• 6 small or 4 large apples
• 1/4 cup turbinado sugar
If you want to make the cake look fancier, you can spiral slices of some of the apple on the top of the cake before baking, but we opted to simply chop the apples into bite-sized pieces and stir them all in. Not too sweet, this cake works well for coffee or tea, or—with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.
METHOD
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Butter sides and bottom of a 9-inch springform cake pan. Line bottom and sides with baking parchment and butter the parchment. Set aside. In a bowl, stir flour, ¾ cup sugar, yeast and salt together. Set aside. In a stand mixer with the paddle attachment, or by hand, beat butter until very smooth. Add lemon zest. Beat in eggs, scraping the sides of the mixer bowl. Stir in the flour/sugar/yeast/salt mixture, adding the warm milk to make a smooth batter. Allow batter to rest while you core and chop apples into bite sized pieces. Fold in the chopped apples until well dispersed through the batter. Spoon the batter into the prepared springform cake pan. Sprinkle the ¼ cup of turbinado sugar over the surface of the cake. ( is will look like a lot, but it adds perfect crunch to the cake once baked.) Place in oven and bake for 55 minutes to one hour at 350 degrees until the cake has crowned, is golden brown, and a toothpick inserted in cake comes out clean. Do not over bake. Remove from oven. Rest cake to cool for 20 minutes. Remove from springform tin. Discard parchment. Place cake on serving platter. Slice and serve warm.
HO‘OMAHA
FIRST CLASS| FOOD & TRAVEL
Alegend whispers that the Hawaiian Islands were gifts from the gods to the people of Hawai‘i, with Pele, the goddess of fire, transforming her fire into volcanoes to create the islands. It is also said that Maui, a Polynesian demigod, pulled the islands from the ocean using a magical fishhook. Seemingly floating in a cerulean blue sea more than 2,200 miles from any continent, the incredible beauty of the Hawaiian islands inspires a belief in these supernatural tales. As the northernmost group of the Polynesian islands, the Hawaiian islands formed 65 million years ago and are the third corner of the Polynesian triangle (the other two being New Zealand and Easter Island).
e entrance of the Fairmont Kea Lani in Maui’s Wailea frames perfectly the glistening vast ocean and palm trees swaying in a gentle, warm breeze. Hawai’i’s only all-suite and villa oceanfront resort, the Fairmont Kea Lani is Maui’s premier choice for rest and relaxation.
Each two-story villa offers 1,800 (or more) square feet, a fullyequipped kitchen, dining area, and cozy living room to watch movies after a day spent in the sun outside. Luxuriate in the deep soaking tubs, unpack at leisure in one of the many walk-in closets, and take advantage of the private laundry facilities and pack light—a true luxury. Order e Villa BBQ Experience for a private barbeque on the villa’s airy patio while watching the sun set over Polo Beach. Or enjoy a casual meal of to-go salads, poke bowls, and pizza from the on-site Makana Market + Café, as the kids splash in the private plunge pool.
A few steps from the villas is Pilina, Maui’s newest bar and lounge, an open-air, oceanfront bar and sushi restaurant with unobstructed views of the sun setting over Lāna i on the horizon. Connecting Hawai‘i’s culture with cuisine the restaurant uses the freshest ingredients focusing on ‘āina (from the land) and makai (toward the sea). Dishes range from A5 Wagyu sliders, to the most delicious, and fresh-from-the sea sushi one has ever tasted
Makana Market & Cafe
Kō’s cocktails
(presented with local edible flowers and seaweed), to a hot rock where guests cook a simple piece of protein tableside. Paired with signature cocktails like the smoky, citrusy Aloha, Vaqueros, featuring the Hawai’i-made Waikulu Smoke Pepa Agave Spirit and rimmed in black Hawaiian lava salt, it makes for a transformative culinary experience.
An abundant breakfast buffet nourishes guests each morning with a wide array of classics (pancakes, eggs, hash browns) and local delights (poke, pineapple bread, and the island’s specialty of banana bread made from Hawaiian bananas; smaller and sweeter than found stateside).
In the evening, guests can indulge at Kō, the award-winning signature restaurant of Fairmont Kea Lani, recently reopened after a renovation under the creative direction of Executive Chef Matt Dela Cruz. Inspired by generations of Hawai‘i’s sugarcane plantation era, the menu celebrates the island’s multicultural culinary heritage with dishes rooted in Hawaiian, Chinese, Filipino, Portuguese, Korean, and Japanese traditions. With open-air seating and warm Wailea breezes, dining at Kō is both a connection to Hawai‘i’s past and a taste of its vibrant present.
e Fairmont Kea Lani offers its guests a vast menu of adventure experiences. Take a complimentary shuttle a short distance to the
Wailea Golf Club, where Fairmont Kea Lani guests can play at three 18-hole championship golf courses and enjoy the award-winning full-service tennis club. Explore the property’s Hale Kukuna, the resort’s “house of enlightenment,” to explore Hawai’ian culture and learn about the island’s traditions through lei making, hula, ‘ukulele, and more.
Stroll to the beach and play in the ocean with boogie boards, snorkel equipment, or stand-up paddling. Arise early and participate in e ala e, when the Hawaiian people call to the sun to rise from the ocean to the sky. An unforgettable experience is a traditional Polynesian canoe outrigger ride at sunrise—paddling in the Pacific in the shadow of Haleakalā (Maui’s dormant volcano) as the sun rises above its majestic crest. Canoers are invited to dive into the Pacific and snorkel in the clear morning waters, hopefully spotting a turtle or two. For a broader snorkel experience, guests can take a boat to Molokini—a crescent-shaped volcanic crater peeking above the Pacific Ocean that is home to the clearest waters in all of Hawai‘i and 250 species of fish. ere, an abundance of wildlife can be viewed in an otherworldly environment.
On the famed road to Hana–a journey, not a destination–pull off the side of the road into the aptly named Garden of Eden Arboretum, where Steven Spielberg shot the opening scenes of Jurassic Park, for an adventurous afternoon in an extraordinary setting. A highlight is Maui’s only waterfall rappelling tour, where experts from Rappel Maui carefully guide you down cascading waterfalls. While no skill is required, it will test your mental bravery. After completing this adrenaline-pumping excursion, stop to explore the shops in Paia, dine at Mama’s Fish House (make a reservation), or
Villa dining room
Villa primary suite
Ocean cabana spa
Neverending views throughout the resort.
FIRST CLASS| FOOD & TRAVEL
Paia’s Fish Market for a more casual alternative. Just a short distance away is Ho’okipa Beach. Stop here to spy more turtles and catch a glimpse of Jaws, a legendary surf break akin to California’s famous Mavericks.
In ancient Hawai‘i, well-being was achieved by honoring the deep connection between nature, people, and spirit. After a day spent pushing one’s limits or relaxing in a private cabana at one of the Fairmont Kea Lani’s three pools, guests can experience the award-winning Fairmont Spa, offering locally-inspired treatments to restore your mana (energy). A guest favorite is the lomi lomi massage, which uses long rhythmic strokes to ease muscle tension, release blockages, and leave guests with a sense of calm and peace. At times, the afternoon trade winds can pick up, reminding visitors of the greater world and nature which these majestical islands are a part of. Should the winds, or a gentle rain, drive you inside, head to your villa to watch on-demand movies and play games, exercise in the state-of-the-art fitness center, or watch the storm
pass from Pilina with a drink in hand. With so many options to choose from at the Fairmont Kea Lani, the only question that remains is “How quickly will you book your visit?”
For more information and to book your vacation, visit fairmont-kea-lani.com.
Sushi boat from Pilina
Villa pool
AN INSIDE LOOK AT CHICAGO’S MOST EXCLUSIVE ADDRESS—THE
HONFLEUR
Introducing Honfleur, Nina Campbell’s latest collection of fabric and wallpaper. Inspired by the colorful seaside town of Honfleur in northern France, which is famed for attracting Impressionist painters.
Explore the collection at shop.ninacampbell.com.
8 BROOKE LANE
$3.995 million SOUTH BARRINGTON
Steeped in luxury and sophistication, this Hidden Lakes of South Barrington home seamlessly blends timeless craftsmanship, premium designer finishes, and state-of-the-art technol-
The Details: 5 Bedrooms, 5.2 Baths • 11,600 square feet, $344 per square foot • Four car garage Contact: Kim Schmidt, RE/MAX Liberty, 847-401-8478
ogy. oughtfully designed for comfort, wellness, and entertainment, every element reflects precision, care, and refined living.
$4 Million PRIMROSE HILL, LONDON
TThe Details: 5 Bedrooms, 2 Baths • 2,301 square feet, $1,738 per square foot Contact: Elias Raymond, Savills, +44 (0) 20 3428 2900
his beautiful period home on Gloucester Crescent, offers flexible living accommodations, including a stunning double reception room on the raised ground floor with a wood-burning stove, large sash windows, and a study area. e floor below leads to a fully fitted kitchen that opens onto a dining room, as well as a utility room, guest cloakroom, ample storage, and direct access to both front and rear patio gardens. e upper floors accommodate five double bedrooms and two bathrooms. Further benefits include wooden flooring, bike storage in the front garden, and an abundance of natural light.
GRANGE ROAD
$3.7 million
CAMBRIDGE, ENGLAND
Originally dating from the 19th century, Cloderton House is a beautifully presented country residence that has been thoughtfully extended, modernized, and meticulously maintained. Today it offers a rare combination of elegant period character and versatile, modern family living, enhanced by extensive ancillary accommodations and leisure facilities. A welcoming entrance hall leads into a series of well-proportioned reception rooms, ideal for both formal entertaining and
The Details: 7 Bedrooms, 4 Baths • 5,473 square feet, $676 per square foot Contact: Ed Meyer, Savills, +44 (0) 1223 347 261
day-to-day life. ese include a drawing room, sitting room, dining room, and a spacious living room, complemented by a large kitchen and breakfast room, and adjoining orangery which together create an exceptional heart to the home. A study, utility, and guest cloakroom complete the ground floor. On the first floor, the principal bedroom suite enjoys its own bathroom and dressing space. ere are six further bedrooms, two with en-suite shower rooms, plus a family shower room.
VITAMIN D DEFICIENCY
WORDS BY CHIRAG PATEL, M.D., CEO, HANSA MEDICAL GROUPE
As the fall season turns into winter, our sun exposure diminishes significantly, especially in the Chicago area. is also affects how much vitamin D we obtain from the sun.
Vitamin D deficiency is a very common finding on patients’ labs. Almost 80 percent of my patients are vitamin D deficient. So why is treating and obtaining normal vitamin D levels important? We know the deficiency can adversely affect our bones, insulin production, immune function, and even worsen our memory according to some studies. In recent years, more primary care physicians are checking patients’ vitamin D levels, especially in those older than 65. Dark skinned or higher pigmented individuals have a higher risk of vitamin D deficiency.
ere are 2 types of vitamin D. Ergocalciferol is obtained from dietary vegetable sources and oral supplements. Cholecalciferol is obtained primarily from skin exposure to ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation in sunlight or the ingestion of food sources. e Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for adults is 600 international units (IU) per day or 800 IU daily for those older than 70. However, in my experience, many patients require a much higher dose of 1,000 to
5,000 IU per day. Foods that are rich in vitamin D include fish like salmon, trout, tuna and halibut and dairy products like milk and yogurt.
You are considered vitamin D deficient, when your blood level is below 20 ng/ml, insufficient between 20 and 30, and normal between 30 and 80 ng/ml. When your levels are 30 or less, it’s almost impossible to correct from just sun exposure and food. Supplementing vitamin D comes in various strengths, forms, and dosing considerations.
Your dosing may require adjustments based on factors like prior gastrointestinal surgeries, kidney conditions, osteoporosis, malabsorption syndromes, taking steroids, or eating disorders. Most supplements come in tablet or gel-cap forms, are over the counter, and are typically well tolerated. Occasionally I prescribe a higher weekly dose when levels are extremely low. Most patients also require the supplement to maintain a normal vitamin D level.
Most reading this article probably have a low vitamin D level. e good part is that it’s easy to diagnose via blood test levels, treat with an over-the-counter supplement, and has a low side effect profile. Before starting any treatment, always consult with your trusted health care professional. So, as you head south for the winter, remember to supplement your vitamin D and protect yourselves with sunscreen.
Hansa Medical Groupe has o ces at 5250 Old Orchard Road, Suite 300, in Skokie, and in Chicago, 847-920-0902, hansamedicalgroupe.com.
Plan Ahead for Healthy Legs
Everything Old is New Again: Buying at Auction with Confidence
WORDS BY APRIL MATTEINI, SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT AND HEAD OF DEPARTMENT FOR JEWELRY AT FREEMAN’S | HINDMAN
The Freeman’s | Hindman September 16 Important Jewelry auction achieved an impressive $3,543,316 total with 91 percent of lots sold and a 117 percent sell-through by value. is auction featured distinguished collections from the Estates of Phyllis Pressman, Carol Hardin Davis, and Mary L. Bundy—all achieving white-glove results—alongside notable property from private collectors. is has only served to confirm something that we in the auction world have known for a while now: the estate jewelry market is thriving.
Everything Old is New Again
e September results perfectly illustrate the ongoing strength of the estate jewelry market, including high demand for signed pieces and exceptional colored gemstones. ese top lots also featured impeccable provenance, once again showing that jewels with stories are highly valued by collectors. Among these top lots were a Bulgari yellow gold necklace and bracelet, from the 1980s, a Van Cleef & Arpels Burmese ruby and diamond brooch, and an Edwardian emerald brooch.
Jewelry Staples
ere are a few essential pieces that every jewelry collection
should include: a chunky bracelet, a gold necklace, hoop earrings, and a great watch. If those descriptions seem a bit vague, that’s intentional. e pieces in your collection should showcase your personal style in these foundational pieces. And what better way to do that than with a unique piece of estate jewelry? Wear them alone or layer them with other statement jewelry pieces.
Collecting Signed Jewelry
Signed jewelry usually refers to a piece that bears a maker’s mark or signature of the designer, manufacturer, or house behind the jewelry. is small mark on the back of a piece can increase its value. Some marks are more significant than others because its presence shows that the piece was created with the highest standards of design, craftsmanship, and stone selection. is makes purchasing signed jewelry at auction a great way to both start building a jewelry collection that will be the envy of your friends, or to take those first steps toward a five- or six-figure purchase with confidence.
Buy What You Love
Last but certainly not least, buy what you love and want to wear. When buying at auction, it is important to utilize the pre-sale services that are offered by the auction house, such as requesting condition reports and additional photographs of any piece you have your eye on. Freeman’s | Hindman welcomes you to our West Loop gallery to view and try on pieces for our upcoming auctions. Chicago previews will be held: e Holiday Edit: Jewelry & Luxury Handbags and Couture: November 15, 16, and 17; Important Jewelry: December 1, 2, and 3. For more information, visit hindmanauctions.com.
From Beautiful Beginnings to Everlasting Ends
Mary Howard retires after 30 years of dedicated service to St. Anne’s, leaving a lasting legacy.
WORDS BY JANIS MVK
ILLUSTRATION BY ROBERT RISKO
Mary Howard’s life has been beautifully entwined with St. Anne’s Catholic Church and School long before she became a fixture of its community. Little did she know that when she exchanged vows at St. Anne’s and later sent her first son— and eventually her second and third—to their first day of kindergarten there, she would spend the next three decades shaping the lives of families and building a legacy within the very walls that had marked her own milestones.
It was in these meaningful moments that Howard’s connection to St. Anne’s only continued to grow. “When our oldest son was ready to begin his first year, my husband and I wanted our family friend, Cheryl Grelle, to be his teacher, and that’s when my involvement with the school really began.”
For many years, Howard dedicated herself as a volunteer mom, and when it came time to return to the workforce, her journey at the school continued to unfold—from working in the before-and-after school program to becoming an instructional assistant, and ultimately landing a full-time role as a fixture in the front office for generations of students and families to come.
“Working at the school has been such a blessing,” she reflects. “I’ve learned something new every day, and I’ve recognized how important it is to be a positive influence in each student’s life.”
Having a knack for making those around her feel valued, she became a steady presence and source of support, always seeking ways to make a difference. “One of the most valuable lessons the school taught me is how important giving back is,” she says. “It inspired me to find ways to do just that. Being there for everyone made me a better person, and my faith continued to grow each day working here.”
e impact of Howard’s presence can be felt in countless small, meaningful moments. “I know my work mattered, but I didn’t consider it work at all—it was something that made me happy,” she recalls.
Her dedication and warmth did not go unnoticed. In 2022, she was honored with the Character Counts award for citizenship. “I was so surprised and touched. I am just me, who tries to be positive, kind, and compassionate, always there with a smile or to listen to anyone who may need me,” she says.
Now, after 30 years, as she prepares to retire, Howard reflects on the values she hopes will continue to guide St. Anne’s. “I hope others
always remember to be kind, respectful, and compassionate to each other. I hope everyone keeps smiling and making others feel special,” she says. Although retirement promises a slower pace and more time for rest, family, and travel for Howard, her heart remains intertwined with the school and community she has nurtured for decades.
She leaves with a simple message: “Be there for others. Take care of yourself, be kind, and make someone smile. Live your faith and know how much each of you means to me—I will always hold you in my heart.”
