HEALTH + WELLNESS
AT SANTÉ, DR. FARIS MURAD IS MOVING NORTH SHORE MEN AWAY FROM REACTIVE CRISIS CARE TOWARD A MODEL OF PRECISION HEALTH AND CLINICAL OPTIMIZATION.
A Toast to the Modern Gentleman
Dear North Shore City Lifestyle Readers,
There’s something powerful about redefining what it means to be a modern gentleman—and in this issue of North Shore City Lifestyle, we’re exploring exactly that. Today’s gentleman is not defined by outdated archetypes, but by intention, self-awareness and the way he shows up for his health, his family and his community.
Our Gentleman’s Issue is rooted in a new era of men’s wellness, purpose and presence. We’re proud to feature insights from Dr. Murad of Santé 360 Wellness, alongside Wellness and Dr. Daniel Domoleczny, who both shed light on how men are approaching health today—not just physically, but mentally and emotionally as well. Their perspective challenges long-held norms around masculinity and invites a more intentional, holistic approach to longevity, resilience and clarity.
Of course, June also brings with it a meaningful opportunity to celebrate the men who shape our lives. Our Father’s Day Gift Guide is thoughtfully curated with elevated ideas and experiences that go beyond the expected—chosen for their craftsmanship, story and lasting value.
For those who appreciate a great story, we’re honored to highlight bestselling author Scott Turow and his latest novel, Presumed Guilty. His work continues to captivate readers with its moral complexity, intellectual rigor and enduring relevance—proof that great storytelling only deepens with time.
And in a conversation that’s equal parts inspiring and refreshingly honest, Mike Johnson—Air Force veteran and familiar face from The Bachelorette—shares what it really takes to build something meaningful. His reflections on integrity, discipline and purpose serve as a reminder that true success isn’t measured by visibility alone, but by substance, consistency and values.
This issue is about more than style or success—it’s about character, evolution and the quiet confidence that defines today’s gentleman. We hope these stories inform, inspire and encourage you to raise a glass to growth, intention and living well.
As always, thank you for being part of our community.
Warmly,
June 2026
PUBLISHER
Keely Conrey | keely.conrey@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Cat Rolfes | cat.rolfes@citylifestyle.com
PUBLICATION DIRECTOR
Katie Bode | katie.bode@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Juliann Brown | juliann.brown@citylifestyle.com
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Peter Heisinger | peter.heisinger@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Cat Rolfes | cat.rolfes@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Maria Ponce Berre, Audrey Snow Owen
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich
LAYOUT DESIGNER Lillian Gibbs
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
KEELY CONREY, PUBLISHER @NORTHSHORECITYLIFESTYLE
Curated
Scott Turow revisits Rusty Sabich in Presumed Guilty
The Precision Health Strategist Dr. Faris Murad is redefining longevity for the North Shore man. A Mayo Clinic–trained physician and founder of 369 Wellness, Murad moves beyond the reactive "check-engine light" model of medicine toward a data-driven era of internal optimization.
WELCOME TO WILD MOON COLLECTIVE
WHERE WELLNESS MEETS LUXURIOUS CARE
There are moments when life calls for a pause - a chance to slow down, check in, and return to the practices that truly support you. Radiance begins when care becomes intentional and consistent, rather than occasional or rushed. At Wild Moon Collective, we believe self-care is a ritual - one that nurtures your skin, body, and overall well-being over time.
5 STEPS TO RADIANCE
A Simple, Intentional Guide to Caring for Yourself
Here are five simple steps to support your skin, body, and well-being and cultivate lasting radiance.
1. Make Time for Yourself - Intentionally
Caring for yourself doesn’t require grand gestures or perfection. Sometimes it’s as simple as creating space - space to breathe, to reset, and to focus inward. When time for yourself becomes intentional and protected, it shifts how you show up everywhere else. Self-care isn’t something to fit in when life slows down, it’s something that supports you through it.
2. Commit to a Monthly Facial Ritual
Healthy, radiant skin is built through consistency. Monthly facial services support skin renewal, improve texture and tone, and help maintain long-term skin health. When facials become a ritual rather than an occasional indulgence, the results are deeper, longer-lasting, and more meaningful. Our Monthly Radiant Ritual Membership was created to support this consistency - combining customized facial treatments that evolve with your skin’s changing needs, month after month.
3. Support Your Skin at Home
In-office treatments are powerful, but what you do at home plays an equally important role. A medical-grade skincare regimen tailored to your skin helps maintain results, protect the skin barrier, and keep your complexion balanced and resilient between visits. Simplicity and consistency are key - thoughtful products used well will always outperform complicated routines.
4. Move Your Body in Ways That Feel Good
Movement is essential - not for perfection, but for vitality. Whether it’s walking outdoors, strength training, yoga, Pilates, or something entirely your own, movement supports circulation, hormone balance, stress reduction, and overall well-being. Choose movement that brings you joy and fits naturally into your life. Your body (and skin) will thank you.
5. Set Boundaries & Protect Your Energy
Radiance is influenced by more than skincare alone. Learning to protect your time, energy, and peace is one of the most powerful forms of self-care. It’s okay to say no. It’s okay to create space. Boundaries allow you to prioritize what truly supports you and that balance shows from the inside out.
business monthly
Pilatesville Opened at Plaza del Lago
Pilatesville opened April 2 at Plaza del Lago, 1515 Sheridan Road in Wilmette, marking the boutique reformer studio’s third Chicagoland location. The studio offers small-group reformer classes, private sessions and flexible membership options rooted in classical Pilates principles and refined through modern programming. With a focus on alignment, strength and long-term practice, Pilatesville provides an approachable, form-driven experience for students of all levels. Learn more at pilatesville.com
Zippy’s Burgers & More Opens in Northbrook
Zippy’s Burgers & More has opened at 2659 Shermer Road in Northbrook, offering a family-owned, made-from-scratch take on classic burgers and hot dogs. Known for friendly service and bold flavors, the menu features standouts like the Chorizo Jalapeño Burger, the No Manches Burger and the Onion Ring Bacon Cheeseburger. The new spot brings a playful, comfort-food-driven addition to the neighborhood’s dining scene.
Hotel Chocolat Opens in Winnetka’s Hubbard Woods District
Hotel Chocolat has opened at 912 Green Bay Road in Winnetka, bringing the British chocolatier’s signature confections to the Hubbard Woods business district. The new shop features a “chocolate wall” showcasing a wide range of flavors, along with curated gift boxes, seasonal offerings and a menu of hot chocolates. The addition contributes to the continued growth of the neighborhood’s retail mix and offers residents a new destination for premium sweets. us.hotelchocolat.com
Photography by Plaza del Lago
Photography by Glenview Chamber
Photography by WNG Chamber
Heirloom photographic art for your home. Because time flies & family is everything. Starting with an in-home design consultation to plan a unique portrait session or curate your existing images, we create artwork to celebrate the beauty of your most precious relationships. NEW CLIENTS RECEIVE A COMPLIMENTARY 16X20 PRINT
THE PRECISION HEALTH STRATEGIST
Dr. Faris Murad is moving North Shore men away from reactive crisis care and toward a data-driven era of internal optimization.
ARTICLE BY CAT ROLFES PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARIA PONCE BERRE
Men on the North Shore are quietly renegotiating their relationship with health, asking harder questions: How long can I keep doing this? Why am I exhausted when nothing is technically wrong? What does “aging well” actually look like?
For decades, the dominant model of men’s health has been reactive. You went to the doctor when something hurt badly enough to demand attention. A tight chest. A blown-out knee. A blood test that finally tipped from yellow into red.
Dr. Faris Murad is trying to intervene much earlier in that narrative. A Mayo Clinic–trained physician and founder of Santé Integrated Health and Wellness, Murad replaces the fragmented loop of specialists with a coordinated lens that connects digestive health, metabolism and cardiovascular risk.
“In the current medical system, doctors are often pushed to see patients for five minutes,” Murad says. “I wanted to go back to the roots of medicine, where you can slow down, listen, and really understand what’s happening beneath the surface.”
THE COMMAND CENTER
Murad’s approach begins at the “command center”: the gut. He views digestive health not as an isolated concern, but as the foundation influencing metabolic
stability, hormonal balance and systemic inflammation through the gut-brain axis.
When that system is compromised by chronic stress, disrupted sleep, alcohol, or a diet that looks fine on paper but fails in practice, the consequences ripple outward. Systemic inflammation rises. Blood glucose becomes erratic. Early warning signs often show up as stubborn weight gain or chronic reflux.
“What we often uncover is the impact of the modern American diet,” Murad says. Disrupted gut bacteria fuel systemic inflammation, which over time contributes to weight gain, liver disease, reflux and increased cancer risk.
Most men have heard this before. Hearing it from their physician, grounded in their own data, makes it actionable. Even small, targeted changes can reduce inflammation and shift the trajectory before disease takes hold.
FROM NORMAL TO OPTIMAL
One of Murad’s sharpest critiques of conventional care is its reliance on “normal” laboratory ranges. Lab
values often fall within a broad statistical average, and patients are told they are fine. Murad argues that “fine” is not a meaningful health goal.
“The biggest myth in men’s health is that feeling fine means you’re healthy,” he says.
Many serious conditions, including cardiovascular disease and metabolic dysfunction, develop silently over years. By the time symptoms appear, the disease process is often established, and the opportunity for prevention has narrowed.
Murad’s Executive Physical is designed to catch risk early. For men who have not seen a doctor in years, he recommends three foundational steps:
1- Advanced cardiovascular assessment: This includes a coronary artery calcium scan and a comprehensive lipid profile, and markers such as ApoB and lipoprotein(a), which provide a more accurate picture of heart disease risk than standard cholesterol testing.
2- Metabolic and hormone evaluation: Measuring insulin, HbA1c and testosterone offers insight into energy levels, body composition and long-term metabolic resilience.
3- Age-appropriate cancer screening: Colon cancer screening begins at 45, along with PSA testing for prostate health. Murad also offers a blood test that analyzes circulating tumor DNA, which can identify the presence of underlying cancers before symptoms appear.
“If I can get someone to test before it becomes a crisis,” Murad says, “treatment is more manageable, outcomes are better and longevity becomes far more attainable.”
For men ready to go deeper, Murad adds tools like DEXA scans and resting metabolic rate testing. These reveal how the body is actually functioning—how much muscle you’re carrying, how efficiently you burn energy—rather than relying on weight alone, which often tells the least useful story.
THE SYMPTOMS WE NORMALIZE
A recurring theme in Murad’s practice is how quickly men dismiss early warning signs. Fatigue becomes “getting older.” Expanding waistlines are blamed on stress. Declining strength or slower recovery is written off as a busy season that never quite ends.
“These are patterns I see all the time,” Murad says. Persistent low energy can reflect hormonal shifts, poor sleep quality, or early metabolic dysfunction. Increasing abdominal fat despite stable weight often signals insulin resistance, particularly visceral fat identified through body composition analysis. Reduced exercise tolerance or slower recovery can be early indicators of cardiovascular or hormonal issues.
And from a gastroenterology perspective, symptoms like chronic reflux, bloating, or changes in bowel habits should never be ignored. They are often early signals that something deeper needs attention.
“The subtle changes are your first opportunity,” Murad says. “Waiting until symptoms are severe removes that advantage.”
THE NON-NEGOTIABLE
If Murad could prescribe one habit to every North Shore man this summer, it wouldn’t be a supplement or a wearable. It would be muscle.
“Muscle is one of the most powerful predictors of longevity, metabolic health, and functional independence,” he says. Beyond
aesthetics, muscle plays a central role in glucose regulation, bone density, balance and resilience as we age.
His recommendation is simple and deliberately unflashy: resistance training two to three times per week. Not extreme. Just consistent.
“Many men focus on cardio without resistance training,” Murad says. “But without muscle, you lose the foundation that allows you to stay active over time. If you protect muscle, you protect your future mobility and independence.”
LOOKING AHEAD
What excites Murad most about men’s wellness in 2026 is the mindset shift. Men are becoming more open to engaging in their health earlier. For him, the goal isn’t aggressive optimization, but early risk identification and thoughtful prevention guided by clinical judgment rather than symptoms alone.
“The goal isn’t just to live longer,” Murad says. “It’s to maintain clarity, strength and independence for as long as possible.”
In that sense, precision health isn’t about chasing youth or perfection. It’s about paying attention sooner, using better data and making informed choices while there’s still time for them to matter.
More at sante360health.com.
THE LONGEVITY ARCHITECT
If the internal chemistry of a man is the roadmap, then the physical body is the vehicle that must carry him forward. Alignment matters. So does balance, breath, and the quiet strength to recover well. At Point Zero Wellness, Dr. Daniel Domoleczny focuses on that external architecture: the structure that allows longevity to feel not just possible, but livable.
A Doctor of Acupuncture and Chinese Medicine and performance specialist, Domoleczny resists the reductive definition of health as the absence of pain. Vitality, in his view, is active. It is resilience under load, clarity under pressure, and the ability to move through decades with curiosity intact.
THE BALANCE BLIND SPOT
On the North Shore, many men are proudly active. They golf early, play paddle through winter and squeeze in tennis between meetings. Yet Domoleczny sees a consistent blind spot in even the most athletic routines: balance.
“Balance is the point where power and focus meet,” he says. “If you don’t have it, you can’t translate strength into performance.” He sees it clearly in scratch golfers whose strength and flexibility are excellent, yet whose swings falter when balance is compromised. The same principle applies to life. Without balance, effort leaks.
His prescription is disarmingly simple. “Shut your mouth,” he says, smiling. Nasal breathing,
At Point Zero Wellness, Dr. Daniel Domoleczny builds the structural resilience and mental clarity required for a lifetime of vitality.
ARTICLE BY CAT ROLFES
practiced consistently, is one of the fastest ways to regulate the nervous system. No equipment. No classes. Just discipline. It slows the stress response and sharpens focus. This is an immediate recalibration for men who live in a perpetual rush.
BREAKING THE WIRED-BUT-TIRED CYCLE
That rush has a cost. Domoleczny frequently works with men caught in what he calls the wired-but-tired cycle. These individuals are chemically alert, deeply fatigued and dependent on caffeine to start the day and alcohol to end it. The result is a state of borrowed readiness that erodes true recovery.
“Strength today looks more like resilience,” he says. “It’s not how hard you can push. It’s how efficiently you can recover.” Preparation, sleep, breath and nervous system regulation form the foundation of that resilience. Without them, injuries linger, stress compounds, and energy becomes erratic.
THE SOUL BIOMARKER
Domoleczny’s view of health extends beyond tissue and technique. A musician and one of the organizer of the Full Moon Jam, he believes creative expression and community are essential muscles. They are often neglected, yet always necessary.
“Creative expression is like bloodwork for the soul,” he says. “Bloodwork shows internal health. Creativity shows whether you’re alive on the outside.” Men who lose touch with expression, he observes, often feel unmoored long before their bodies break down.
INVESTING FOR THE LONG TERM
As men approach retirement, Domoleczny reframes health as an investment rather than a status symbol. Physical capacity, mental clarity and emotional steadiness are what allow a man to move gracefully from provider to participant.
“Meditation is the greatest hack we have,” he says. “It’s a daily software update.” Invest in the body and mind in your forties and fifties, and the dividends arrive later. These are measured in independence, presence and the quiet confidence to inhabit the life you worked so hard to build.
More at pointzerowellness.com.
Conference rooms in the Chicago suburbs, designed for focused work, polished presentations, and gatherings that feel anything but ordinary.
dayhousecoworking.com | (847) 579-9378 | Vdayhousecoworking Downtown Highland Park | Old Town Schaumburg
The Modern Dad
Curated gifts beyond the expected and ordinary
ARTICLE BY CAT ROLFES
Father’s Day gifts tend to fall into familiar territory, but the dads worth celebrating rarely do. This year’s guide leans into that idea, curating a mix of elevated essentials, immersive experiences and design-forward indulgences that feel considered rather
Oarca Luxury Handmade Rowing Machine
For the dad who appreciates exceptional design as much as exceptional performance. The Oarca rowing machine is a sculptural, hand-built piece of fitness equipment crafted from sustainable hardwood plywood, bringing a warm, architectural presence to any home gym or living space. But its beauty is matched by engineering: Oarca’s patented Dynamic Oscillation Technology recreates the balance, flow and precision of rowing on open water, delivering a smooth, scull-like stroke that feels effortless and fluid.
Every detail—from the sliding seat to the foot stretcher to the custom-designed whisk that drives the vortex motion—is built for authenticity and refinement. The machine folds real rowing mechanics into a quiet, meditative workout that’s as satisfying for seasoned athletes as it is for design lovers who want their equipment to look as good as it performs.
A statement piece with substance, it’s the rare fitness gift that elevates both form and function. $3,700. oarcarower.com
Hairmax PowerFlex 272 Laser Cap
For the dad who prefers solutions rooted in science, Hairmax’s PowerFlex 272 offers a more considered approach to hair maintenance. The FDA-cleared device uses low-level laser therapy—via 272 medical-grade lasers—to support the hair’s natural growth cycle in men experiencing early to moderate thinning.
The appeal is as much about ease as efficacy. Lightweight, cordless and designed for hands-free use, it integrates into a routine without much disruption. Just three short sessions per week while reading or winding down.
Hairmax has built a reputation around clinical validation, with studies showing measurable increases in hair density over time. It’s not an overnight fix, but for those willing to commit, it represents one of the more credible at-home options in the category. $1,799.00. hairmax.com
than conventional. From statement pieces that redefine the home gym to quiet luxuries he’ll reach for every day, each selection is rooted in craftsmanship, performance
and a strong sense of place. The through line: gifts that don’t just impress in the moment, but earn their keep long after the day is over.
AIRE Ancient Baths Chicago + Himalayan Salt Ritual
For the dad who could use a full-day reset. AIRE Ancient Baths Chicago offers an immersive, old-world spa experience that feels worlds away from the everyday. Set inside a restored historic building, the journey begins with a tranquil thermal bath circuit—warm, hot, cold, saltwater, jet, and steam—each designed to slow the mind, release tension, and restore the body. It’s a meditative, candlelit escape that invites him to unplug completely: no phone, no schedule, just deep, restorative quiet.
Elevate the experience with the Himalayan Salt Ritual, a grounding full-body exfoliation and massage using warm Himalayan salt stones. The treatment melts away stress, boosts circulation, and leaves him feeling lighter, looser, and deeply renewed. Together, the bath circuit and ritual create a transportive, all-day getaway—perfect for athletes, high-stress professionals, or any dad long overdue for some real downtime.
A gift he’ll remember long after Father’s Day. Bath Circuit + Himalayan Salt Ritual from $285. beaire.com/en
The Shack – Golf Simulator Experience
For the dad who loves a little friendly competition. The Shack in Glenview offers a high-energy, high-tech golf experience that feels like a getaway without leaving town. Dad can step into one of their state-of-the-art simulator bays and play world-class courses, sharpen his swing, or challenge friends to a closest-to-the-pin showdown—all with craft drinks and a relaxed, clubhouse-style atmosphere.
It’s the perfect pick for the sporty, social dad who’d trade another tie for an afternoon of play. Whether he’s a seasoned golfer or just loves a good hang, The Shack delivers a fun, low-pressure escape he’ll actually use. Start at $55 per hour (weekday) and $65 per hour (weekend). theshackglenview.com
Schaefer’s Private Bourbon Barrels Basket
For the bourbon enthusiast, this curated trio is a standout Father’s Day indulgence. Schaefer’s hand-selected private barrels of Maker’s Mark, Old Elk and Knob Creek make this set especially distinctive—each bottle labeled to reflect its exclusive single-barrel origin. The basket also includes Luxardo maraschino cherries and Angostura bitters, providing everything needed to mix a summer’s worth of elevated cocktails. $229.95. schaefers.com
Bricoleur Vineyards
Father’s Day Gift Set
For the dad who values craftsmanship—in both wine and the keepsakes he keeps. Bricoleur Vineyards’ Father’s Day Gift Set pairs exceptional Sonoma winemaking with a design-forward presentation that feels elevated and enduring. At its center is the 2023 Russian River Valley Pinot Noir ($65), opening with cherry, hibiscus tea, and a hint of tobacco, then unfolding into pomegranate, red currant, and subtle five-spice. Bright, balanced, and effortlessly drinkable, it elevates any meal or moment. The presentation makes it memorable: the wine arrives in a Toyo Y-350 steel toolbox, a keepsake he’ll use long after the last pour. Since 2020, Bricoleur has earned acclaim for its hands-on, artisanal approach, with Tom Pierson and Bob Cabral crafting standout wines from sustainably farmed vineyards. $120. bricoleurvineyards.com
Velvetiser Intro Pack + 29 Everything Chocolate Box
For the dad who appreciates a little everyday indulgence. This duo elevates his chocolate ritual from simple treat to full sensory experience. The Velvetiser uses patented vortex technology to fold real chocolate flakes into milk for an ultra-smooth, barista-grade drink—hot or iced—at the touch of a button. The Intro Pack includes the Velvetiser, a curated selection of drinking chocolates, and Hotel Chocolat’s signature mug and glass, giving him everything he needs to craft his own café-worthy drink at home.
Paired with the 29 Piece Chocolate Everything Box, it becomes a celebration in itself. Brimming with milk, dark, fruity, nutty, tipsy and patisserie-inspired chocolates, this generous assortment is made with high-quality cacao and other ingredients like real pressed raspberries and warming rum. Presented in embossed, foiled packaging with a gift sleeve ready for a handwritten note, it’s a wow-factor unboxing that feels personal and thoughtful. And because Hotel Chocolat is committed to driving positive change in the cacao industry through its gentle farming initiatives, it’s a chocolate gift that gives back. $229. us.hotelchocolat.com
Scott Turow’s Unfinished Business
Indie and local books that are bound to inspire.
Scott Turow has spent decades exploring the uneasy space where law and human behavior collide. In Presumed Guilty, published Jan. 14, 2025, he returns to Rusty Sabich, the character who first defined his voice and helped shape the modern legal thriller.
The novel marks the third installment in the Rusty Sabich trilogy, following Presumed Innocent and Innocent. Now in his 70s, Rusty is drawn back into the courtroom, confronting not only a new case but the accumulated weight of a life lived in and around the law. At more than 500 pages, the book carries the scope and density readers expect from Turow, but its real force comes from something quieter: a reckoning with time, consequence and the possibility of change.
Turow did not return to Rusty out of convenience or nostalgia. The impulse was both creative and personal. “Rusty remains what feels like my truest voice,” he says, describing the character as the one that emerged when he first understood his strengths as a storyteller. But just as important was the sense that Rusty’s story had been left unresolved. At the end of Innocent, the character had come to recognize his own self-destructive behavior but had not yet tested what might come next. “His story wasn’t over,” Turow says. “He had not seen if he could make anything good for himself out of that knowledge.”
ARTICLE BY CAT ROLFES
PHOTOGRAPHY BY AUDREY SNOW OWEN
That tension between recognition and redemption sits at the center of Presumed Guilty. It also reflects the questions that continue to animate Turow’s work more broadly. After a lifetime in the legal world, he remains focused on its central promise and its inherent limitations. “The law establishes a set of common ground rules whose ultimate goal is fairness to all,” he says. “The question is how committed we are as a society to that idea.” It is a system, he notes, that’s always being tested and never succeeds perfectly—a reality that gives his fiction its enduring sense of moral complexity.
For many readers, Turow’s work is defined not only by its intellectual rigor but by its deep humanity. His characters rarely operate at extremes. Instead, they exist, as he puts it, “somewhere between their best actions and their worst,” shaped by competing impulses, obligations and desires. The themes that have long
drawn him—parents and children, ambition, regret and the constant negotiation between who we are and who we hope to be—remain firmly in place.
That sense of continuity extends beyond the page. Turow’s connection to the North Shore stretches back to his teenage years when he moved to the area for high school. Over time, it has become a place layered with memory and meaning. He speaks of “the utter familiarity that comes with a place that has been home for most of my life,” a landscape that now includes not only his own past but the presence of family across generations. The lake itself, he adds, plays no small role, magnifying daily life with “beauty, tranquility and the presence of a vast supply of the essential liquid of existence.”
Chicago, too, remains central to his work. Turow has long argued that it is “the most American of our big cities,” grounded less in spectacle than in the enduring values of work, family and faith. It’s a city, he suggests, that reflects the broader national experience more honestly than coastal counterparts driven by speed or image. That sensibility runs through Presumed Guilty, where ambition and restraint, success and failure coexist in uneasy balance.
Even as he revisits one of his most enduring creations, Turow continues to engage with his earlier work in new ways. He recently served as co-executive producer and consultant on the Apple TV+ adaptation of Presumed Innocent, a project that required reexamining a story first published more than 40 years ago. “Rethinking a story that is 40 years old is intriguing,” he says, particularly in determining what still resonates and what feels dated. He credits collaborators David E. Kelley and Dusty Thomason with leading that effort, noting that their shared understanding was that the story needed to evolve for a contemporary audience.
The result is a career that remains active across multiple forms, from novels to television, without losing its grounding. Turow continues to write from the same place, both geographically and creatively, even as his audience expands and shifts.
Looking ahead, he shows no signs of slowing. He has recently completed a draft of a new novel, tentatively titled Presumed Dead , centered on an aging lawyer confronted with a newspaper obituary that appears to contradict a crime he witnessed decades earlier. The premise suggests a familiar interest in time, memory and the instability of certainty: themes that have defined his work from the beginning.
For readers discovering Turow through the recent television adaptation, he still points back to Presumed Innocent as the best place to start, calling it “time-tested” and widely appealing. But with Presumed Guilty, he offers something more than a return to form. It’s an extension, a deepening and, in many ways, a reconsideration.
Rusty Sabich is older now. So is the world around him. The questions, however, remain as urgent as ever.
Know a local author? Email cat.rolfes@citylifestyle.com.
Rockin’ Rotary Ribfest
July 9–12
Sunset Park hosts the 20th anniversary of this smoky, fourday tradition. It’s a classic summer trifecta: award-winning ribs, a full-scale carnival, and community-driven fundraising. rockinrotaryribfest.com
Evanston Art & Big Fork Festival
August 22–23
A walkable art experience featuring 150 juried creators. Refuel at “The Big Fork” with an eclectic mix of food trucks while exploring original sculptures and mixed-media works. amdurproductions. com/evanston-art-and-big-fork-festival
Lake Forest Day
August 4–5
A cherished relic of 1919, this American Legion-hosted event is the epitome of hometown charm. The Wednesday parade remains the most anticipated neighborhood reunion of the year. lakeforestday.com
The Wilmette Block Party
August 29
What began as a milestone anniversary celebration has become an essential late-summer staple. It’s high-energy community spirit at its finest, drawing thousands to the heart of downtown. wilmettepark.org/the-wilmette-block-party
THE SIDEWALK SALES
The Tri-Village Circuit
June 19–20 (Glencoe), July 10–11 (Northfield) & July 17–18 (Winnetka)
A storied tradition of open-air commerce. Expect seasonal markdowns from premier boutiques and, in Winnetka, a charming glimpse at our future leaders in the Kid-Entrepreneur section. wngchamber.com
Wilmette Sidewalk Sale
July 10–11
Over 35 retailers and artisans line the streets. Arrive early for “Acoustics on the Corner” and look for designer early-access wristbands via the North Shore Exchange. wilmettepark.org
Downtown Evanston Sidewalk Sale & Chalk Art Contest
July 25
A creative explosion where retail therapy meets street art. Watch the pavement come alive with color while browsing the city’s unique boutiques. downtownevanston.org
FARMERS MARKETS
Evanston Farmers’ Market
Saturdays, May 2 – November 21
For over 50 years, this has been the North Shore’s pantry. With 70+ vendors, it remains the gold standard for regional produce, local cheese, and the community “Spud Club” for the kids. evanstonfarmersmarkets.org
Highwood Evening Gourmet Market
Wednesdays, June 3 – August 26
The Wednesday “Ravinia-style” picnic ritual. This isn’t just a market; it’s a mid-week gala of global eats and themed nights under the trees of Everts Park. celebratehighwood.org/ highwood-evening-gourmet-market
Winnetka Farmers’ Market
Saturdays, June 6 – October 31
Entering its 8th season, this Metra-side market is a masterclass in curation. From organic dahlias to Mexican cuisine, it is the quintessential Saturday morning stroll. wngchamber.com
The Market at Elawa Farm
Thursdays – Sundays, beginning April 30
A thoughtfully curated Lake Forest experience. Shop housemade kitchen favorites like quiches and preserves in the historic, scenic setting of Middlefork Drive. elawafarm.org
Wilmette & Glencoe French Markets
Saturdays, April 18 – October 31
European-style charm lands on the North Shore every Saturday. These markets function as weekly mini-festivals featuring artisan food makers and rotating gourmet treats. wilmette.gov/443/ French-Market
Deerfield Farmers Market
Saturdays, June 13 – October 14
A Saturday destination for regional abundance. Beyond the Wisconsin cheeses and small-batch honey, keep an eye out for the September “Touch-a-Truck” event. deerfield.il.us/301/ Farmers-Market
Northbrook Farmers Market
Wednesdays, June 17 – October 14
A Wednesday mission-driven market that celebrates sustainable living and small farming families in the heart of downtown. northbrookfarmersmarket.org
AN EXCERPT FROM EPISODE 6 OF SHARE THE LIFESTYLE, A CITY LIFESTYLE PODCAST
Photographer: Brittany Dawn Short
Creative Director: Jen Birn
Stylist: Stephanie Coultress O’Neill
Location: Hotel Saint Cecilia, Austin, TX
MIKE JOHNSON HAS BUILT HIS LIFE AROUND ONE QUIETLY RADICAL IDEA: THE STANDARD YOU SET PRIVATELY IS THE ONLY ONE THAT MATTERS.
After eight years in the Air Force, a celebrated run on national television, and a health crisis abroad that sent him deep into supply chains and ingredient certifications most founders never touch, the result is Oshun — a luxury ritual brand built on provenance you can trace and integrity you can verify. In an exclusive conversation for the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Mike shares what it actually takes to build something worth putting your name on. Read the highlights below, then scan the QR code for the full episode.
Q: YOU BECAME A FAN FAVORITE ON THE BACHELORETTE AND THEN LEFT THE SPOTLIGHT. YOU MOVED TO MEXICO, LEARNED SPANISH, THEN COSTA RICA, AND BUILT A COMPANY. WHAT DID THAT EXPERIENCE TEACH YOU ABOUT HUMAN BEHAVIOR?
A: “If you’re a good person going in, that shows. If you’re not, that shows too. I also learned that people form this parasocial relationship with you — they assume things about you. When in all actuality, different circumstances bring out different parts of who you are. I was on TV trying to find love. The kindness people were showing after felt a bit fake, because they wanted to be a part of something that isn’t who I am individually, but a part of what they saw on TV. And so I had to get away from everybody and everything and the noise.”
THE QUIET STANDARD:
MIKE JOHNSON
“Too many people have prayed for me. So I’ve got to get up and do the walking.”
— Mike Johnson
Q: YOU JOINED THE AIR FORCE RIGHT OUT OF COMMUNITY COLLEGE. WHAT WERE YOU ACTUALLY RUNNING TOWARD?
A: “There was something in me that was saying: I’m not living up to my full potential. I was being a follower. My uncle said, ‘What’s going to make you become an adult the fastest?’ I said, obviously, the military. The Air Force broadened my thought process more than anything. We’re so caught up in our own perception — when you learn to understand different people’s perspectives, it adds to you in so many ways.”
Q: WITH OSHUN, YOU OWN YOUR MANUFACTURING, YOU EMPLOY A CHEMIST, EVERY PRODUCT HAS A BATCH NUMBER TRACEABLE TO ITS ORIGIN DATE. WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO GO THAT DEEP WITH THE BRAND?
A: “The EU bans 1,100 ingredients in personal care products. The U.S. bans nine. That’s my starting point. Oftentimes, it might be the same ingredient, but it comes from a place where it doesn’t have the highest purity. And 60% of what we put on our skin is absorbed. Every product Oshun makes carries a batch number that goes back to the exact day it was created — I can show you every single supplier, the date, the origin. I own more than one part of the supply chain because that’s the only way I can stand behind what’s in the bottle.”
This conversation is just the beginning. Mike goes deeper into why he’s buying land up north, the family in the Philippines who prayed over his factory floor, and what he’d tell every person ready to stop performing and start building. Scan the QR code for the full, exclusive City Lifestyle interview on the Share the Lifestyle podcast.
MIKE JOHNSON
JUNE 4TH - JULY 12TH
Catch as Catch Can: A Chicago Premiere
Steppenwolf Theatre Company, 1650 N Halsted St., Chicago | Times Vary
In this virtuosic Chicago premiere, three actors inhabit six roles to navigate a New England family’s spiraling crisis. Directed by ensemble member Amy Morton, Mia Chung’s genre-bending production masterfully pivots between hilarity and emotional horror. Don't miss this high-stakes exploration of identity and home. steppenwolf.org
JUNE 10TH
“For
giving”
Sculpture Dedication during Celebrate Highwood’s Gourmet Market
341 Waukegan Ave., Highwood | 5:30 PM
Witness the unveiling of Forgiving, a new public sculpture by internationally recognized artist Chris RWK, at Highwood’s Gourmet Market. The work features his iconic robot figure holding a heart, symbolizing connection and empathy. The celebration continues the following day with RWK’s solo exhibition I Left My Heart in Illinois at Collect With Lulu & Silvertuna Studios (524 Sheridan Rd.), 6 p.m. collectwithlulu.com
JUNE 19TH
Inspire: Breathwork & Cacao Ceremony
The Art of
QUIET LUXURY
CONTINUED
JUNE 20TH
Summer Solstice Harvest Dinner: A Celebration at Elawa Farm
Elawa Farm, 401 Middlefork Dr., Lake Forest | 6:30 PM
Celebrate the longest day of the year with an elevated outdoor dinner at Elawa Farm. The evening features a signature pig roast by Rob Levitt of Publican Quality Meats and a seasonal menu from Elawa’s kitchen. Proceeds support the Elawa Farm Foundation’s food-access and educational initiatives. Tickets available under Programs & Events — Annual Fundraisers. elawafarm.org
JUNE 25TH
Soundtracks of a Generation: 30th Anniversary Tribute
North Shore Center for the Performing Arts, 9501 Skokie Blvd., Skokie | 7:30 PM
The North Theatre’s major debut arrives with a yearlong celebration of iconic music. Launching June 25th with the Sons of Seger, this monthly series honors legends from Aretha Franklin to Tom Petty. Join a vibrant community tribute to the sounds that defined a generation. northshorecenter.org
JUNE 27TH - JUNE 28TH
Lisa Steele: “In Season”
Book Signing
Barbara’s Bookstore (Chicago and Lombard locations) | 1:00 PM
Bestselling author and fifth-generation chicken keeper Lisa Steele brings her In Season tour to Chicago. Meet the TV host as she shares over 125 sweet and savory recipes from her latest cookbook. Purchase required for entry to signing events at Barbara’s Bookstore in Macy’s (111 N. State St., Chicago) on June 27 and at Yorktown (120 Yorktown Center, Lombard) on June 28. barbarasbookstore.com
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