May:june2017 issuu

M AY/J U N E 2 0 1 7

CHICAGO AND NORTH SHORE M AY/J U N E 2 0 1 7 T H E D I N I N G I S S U E

THE DINING ISSUE

CHICAGO AND NORTH SHORE

VOLUME 8, ISSUE 3

5thAnnual

POWERFUL . POSITIVE. CONNECTORS.

ALSO INSIDE

shore to shore

1420 MAIN STREET, LAKE GENEVA, WI / $2,549,000

200 CONFERENCE POINT RD, WILLIAMS BAY, WI / $1,695,000

13173 FLYNN ROAD, SAWYER, MI / $1,396,000

13173 FLYNN ROAD, SAWYER, MI / $1,396,000

8353 FOX RIVER ROAD, SALEM, WI / $1,250,000

WISCONSIN Lake Geneva 880 West Main St., Lake Geneva, WI MICHIGAN AND INDIANA St Joseph 3399 S Lakeshore Dr • St. Joseph, MI Harbor Country 225 N Whittaker St Ste 4 • New Buffalo, MI

Invest In What Lasts How do you pass down what you’ve spent your life building up? A Morgan Stanley Financial Advisor can help you create a legacy plan based on the values you live by. So future generations can benefit from not just your money, but also your example. Let’s have that conversation. www.morganstanleybranch.com/Chicago

© 2015 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC. CRC 1134840 04/15

MOVE THE PARTY OUTSIDE!

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WE CAN DESIGN YOUR PERFECT OUTDOOR KITCHEN FOR COOKING AND SUMMER ENTERTAINING

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Experience the music, art and fashion of the world’s greatest rock and roll band at Exhibitionism—The Rolling Stones exhibit at Navy Pier April 15 – July 30. This blockbuster interactive event features over 500 rare Stones items including vintage guitars, lyric books, unseen footage and a 3D concert finale.

For more information, visit navypier.com

FEATURES M AY/J U N E 2 0 1 7 • VO LU M E 8 , I S S U E 3

Santa Sangre brunch cocktail from Cindy’s at the Chicago Athletic Association Hotel.

For more great brunches, see page 62.

The Dining Issue

60 Fresh-Grown Convenience:

34 Be a Foodie For Good

By Julie Chernoff

By Julie Chernoff

54 All in The Family:

The Best CSA Boxes

62 Let’s Do Brunch!

By Julie Chernoff

Chicago Restaurant Families

By Julie Chernoff

58 Spoilt For Choice: Navy Pier Dining

By David Hammond

64 Global Groceries

68 Get Grilling!

By Maddie LaKind

72 Brew Masters: Chicago’s 9 Best Breweries

By Karl Klockars

109 Cookbooks = Love: Our Favorite Cookbooks For Every Kind Of Cook

By Maddie LaKind

By Julie Chernoff

66 The Best New

Photo by Kelsey Sullivan Cover Photo by Julie Chernoff

Burgers in Chicagoland

By Julie Chernoff

THOMAS COFFEE - PROUD SPONSOR OF CHURCHILL DOWNS

Available at a store near you

www.thomascoffee.com

Co l

Listings

’s er

ell Bank dw on the

north Shore *

Glencoe Market Share 1235 Whitebridge Lane, Winnetka | $5,899,000 Jody Dickstein/Julie Deutsch | 847.651.7100

885 Sheridan Road, Glencoe | $4,275,000 Jody Dickstein | 847.651.7100

684 Greenleaf Avenue, Glencoe | $2,895,000 Mike Mitchell | 847.910.0146

505 Jefferson Avenue, Glencoe | $2,200,000 Gloria Matlin | 847.951.4040

500 Greenleaf Avenue, Glencoe | $2,150,000 Laurie Gross | 847.337.2217

536 South Avenue, Glencoe | $2,049,900 Gloria Matlin | 847.951.4040

803 Sheridan Road, Highland Park | $1,995,000 Iris Garmisa | 847.287.0405

301 Keystone Court, Glencoe | $1,799,000 Jody Dickstein | 847.651.7100

90 Hawthorn Avenue, Glencoe | $1,799,000 Mike Mitchell/Carma Baker | 847.910.0146

752 Brookvale Terrace, Glencoe | $1,799,000 Mike Mitchell | 847.910.0146

920 Bluff Street, Glencoe | $1,625,000 Gloria Matlin | 847.951.4040

*Midwest Real Estate Data LLC for the period 1/1/17 through 3/22/17 Market Share Our Sold Listings

Glencoe Office 640 Vernon Avenue

250 Mortimer Road, Glencoe | $1,499,000 Gloria Matlin | 847.951.4040

210 Franklin Road, Glencoe | $1,285,000 Jessica Rosien | 608.320.9833

253 Walden Drive, Glencoe | $1,125,000 Gloria Matlin | 847.951.4040

714 Foxdale Avenue, Winnetka | $889,000 Peggy Glickman | 847.212.4610

415 Kelling Lane, Glencoe | $799,000 Eve Bremen | 847.373.6091

947 Rollingwood Road, Highland Park | $729,000 Peggy Glickman | 847.212.4610

534 Oakdale Avenue, Glencoe | $645,000 Jenni Gordon/Cheryl Waldstein | 847.778.0359

1688 Sunnyside Avenue, Highland Park | $625,000 Peggy Glickman | 847.212.4610

1025 Bluff Road, Glencoe | $1,595,000 Jody Dickstein/Sara Cohen | 847.651.7100

Discover the Good Life on the

North Shore Explore‌

Friendly Communities | Boating and Swimming Beaches | The Botanic Garden | The Writers Theatre | Miles of Running and Biking Paths Boutique Shopping | Easy Commute to City | The Ravinia Festival | Great Kids Parks | Golf Courses | Excellent Schools | Art Festivals

Š2017 Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Operated by a subsidiary of NRT LLC. Coldwell Banker and the Coldwell Banker Logo are registered service marks owned by Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. Real estate agents affiliated with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage are independent contractor sales associates and are not employees of Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage

★ ★ the ★ ★

SCIENCE to get your

life back

BRAIN INJURIES: SCIENCE HAS LANDED.

Here comes 26 stories of scientific-powered hope for patients facing life-altering injury or illness. Built on the shoulders of the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago, this shining new hospital has 10x more dedicated researchers than any other rehabilitation hospital.

Like never before, researchers work directly alongside doctors and therapists, surrounding patients to collaborate in real time, not theory time. Faster, better outcomes. Do you hear us coming?

BRAIN I SPINAL CORD I NERVE, MUSCLE & BONE I PEDIATRIC I CANCER

This is Stewart Greenberg.

Lawyer. Husband. Grandfather.

Stewart was diagnosed with stage 4 melanoma in 2012.

Top US doctors gave him just three months to live.

“Miracles do happen,” Stewart says. “They happen at Hadassah.”

Dr. Michal Lotem of the Hadassah Medical Organization saved his life with a unique Hadassah immunotherapy vaccine.

This is what we do.

Stewart wants the world to know that Hadassah hospitals are changing the way we fight cancer with cutting-edge new treatment protocols.

This is what we do.

Stewart is asking you to help Hadassah do what we do best: Save lives and get closer to a cure for cancer.

Donate.

To learn more about Hadassah and the ways you can help, contact

Hadassah Chicago-North Shore

847.205.1900 chicago-northshore@hadassah.org HADASSAH THE WOMEN’S ZIONIST ORGANIZATION OF AMERICA, INC.

hadassah.org/Melanoma

Financial and other information about Hadassah may be obtained, without cost, by writing the Finance Department at Hadassah, 40 Wall Street, New York, NY 10005, or by calling 212.355.7900. ©2017 Hadassah, The Women’s Zionist Organization of America, Inc. Hadassah, the H logo, and Hadassah the Power of Women Who Do are registered trademarks of Hadassah, The Women’s Zionist Organization of America, Inc.

DEPARTMENTS 80

Mosquitoes Really Suck!

By Heather Blackmore

43

84

Kitchen Alfresco

75

ENTERTAINMENT

43

By Megan Craig

The Summer Go Guide

By Anna Carlson

By Jessica Suss

110

Star-Studded Stages

By Robert Loerzel

TRAVEL & TRANSPORTATION

75 Lake Escape

By Kendra Thornton

Get Rolling! Family Cycling Guide

102

By Brittany Anas

A BETTER YOU

88 The Not-So-Sweet Side of Sugar 84

By Shannan Younger

94

Summer Style: Trend Report

By Tracy Clifford

97 It’s All About Mom: Mother’s Day Gifts

By Jessica Suss

98 Beyond The Tie: Father’s Day Gifts

100

By Jessica Suss

Your Top 7 Summer Hair Problems — Solved!

By Jenny Muslin

FAMILY & FINANCE

90 Money Talk: How to Raise Your Kids To Be Money Geniuses

100

By Anna Carlson

MAKE A DIFFERENCE

114 Give Time, Give Things, Give Support

By Will Mendelson

116

Make It Better’s 5th

Annual Philanthropy Awards

By Will Mendelson

Better Makers and Their Impact 120

By Anna Carlson

Chicago’s Top Philanthropists 124

By Make It Better

5thAnnual

SUE 3 VOLUME 8, IS

2017 Winnetka Music Festival

ALSO INSIDE

.

50

ORE D NORTH SH CHICAGO AN

ON THE COVER Photography and food styling by MIB Dining Editor Julie Chernoff Julie says, “This Israeli-inspired Shakshuka is essentially a tomatobased vegetable stew seasoned with cumin and harissa. Eggs are poached or baked in the mixture; I like to serve it with garlic-rubbed whole-grain toast, crumbled feta, chopped avocado and cilantro. I shot this in the perfect late-morning light of my mother-inlaw’s New Haven, Connecticut, kitchen using my trusty iPhone 6! #nofilter #shotoniphone”

IN EVERY ISSUE

20 founder’s letter 24 contributors 26 you said it 28 from the web 30 fresh 32 community celebrations 38 event listing 126 closing thoughts The views expressed in sponsored content are the opinions of advertisers and not the views of Make It Better.

FIRST PHOTO COURTESY OF CHICAGO BOTANIC GARDEN; SECOND PHOTO COURTESY OF WALTER E. SMITHE; THRID PHOTO COURTESY OF LAKE GENEVA

By Megan Craig

NECTORS OSITIVE. CON POWERFUL . P

Real Estate: At The Lake

017 M AY/J U N E 2

RE D NORTH SHO CHICAGO AN

36

ISSUE THE DINING ISSUE 7 THE DINING M AY/J U N E 2 0 1

HOME

TIME TO ENJOY THE OUTDOORS NO MATTER WHERE YOUR ADVENTURE TAKES YOU...

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LIVE THE MOMENT TELL THE STORY

June is Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness month. Visit Rivers Casino to learn how you can support the mission of the Alzheimer’s Association® to advance research to end Alzheimer’s and dementia while enhancing care and support for those living with the disease and their families.

RIVERSCASINO.COM | 888.307.0777 | 3000 S. River Road | Des Plaines, IL 60018 Alzheimer’s Association is a 501(C)(3) organization and is proud to benefit from this program. Must be 21 years of age or older. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537).

CUSTOM DOORS THE NORTH SHORE GALLERY

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UNIQUE LUXURY WINE CELLARS

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520 W Erie Street , Chicago, IL 60654 312.337.2440

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FOUNDER’S LET TER

Want to find love, raise better kids, negotiate an important contract, foster world peace and make an impact on others? Then it behooves you to prioritize dinner — because your dinner table is also your power table.

Mounting evidence proves that children who regularly eat dinner with their family develop better:

• grades

• vocabulary

• self-esteem

• resilience

• leadership skills

• connection to family history They also are more likely to avoid obesity, eating disorders, intoxicants, smoking, teenage pregnancy and depression.

I still enjoy Power Dinners with my kids.

YOUR POWER TABLE

BY SUSAN B . NOYE S

Intriguingly, growing up with regularly scheduled family dinners is the single most common characteristic of corporate CEOs — even more so than earning Eagle Scout badges or achieving significant athletic success. The evidence of the power of family dinner is so compelling that retired AT&T senior corporate executive Shelly London and Harvard Medical School Professor of Psychology Dr. Anne K. Fishel founded the Family Dinner Project, a nonprofit with online resources to help every family enjoy better food, fun and conversation around the family dinner table. When corporate America meets the Ivy League to promote something, it must be powerful.

It’s not just family dinners that make life (and business) better, but any meal that provides thoughtful, engaging experiences. Our high notes in life are celebrated with great dinners; our lows are made tolerable with comfort food. Our best conversations are almost always over something to eat or drink.

The dinner table you create, host or join is truly your power table. This magazine and our online content will help you make the most of it.

As always, our content not only connects you to the best ideas and resources in your community, it but also makes it easier for you to help others.

If you are reading this, you likely own a beautiful home in a relatively safe neighborhood. Wherever possible, you choose to put your money toward products that are organic, sustainable and locally sourced, from family-owned businesses. You are also naturally inclined to help others. That’s probably why you choose to read this magazine — because everything Make It Better does creates virtuous circles and amplifies social impact.

Just by reading this, following us online, coming to our events, sharing your thoughts with us, and sharing our articles and recommendations with others, you are helping others.

You are important to us and to the world. Thank you for sharing your valuable attention here. We hope our annual dining issue finds a seat at your power table.

Susan B. Noyes

MAKEITBETTER.NET @MAKEITBETTERNS

@MAKEITBETTERNS

MAKEITBETTERMAG

MAKEITBETTER.NET

MAKEITBETTER2009

The Mission of Make It Better is to be the most trusted, easiest-to-use community resource that helps you make your life and the lives of others better—online, in print and in person.

We accomplish this by providing the highest quality lifestyle content for our audience and connecting them to the businesses and nonprofits they support.

2 0 M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 7

makeitbetter.net

Congratulates TEAM MANGEL ON THEIR 2016 SUCCESS

Top #5 Overall New Trier Brokers* New Trier and Winnetka Office #1 Kenilworth Brokers

We provide a personal approach to selling your home and look forward to hearing from you!

KATHRYN BADER MANGEL, CRS 847.372.5801 KELLY O’CONNELL MANGEL 847.910.2621

K2@TEAMMANGEL.COM

| TEAMMANGEL.COM

*#1 Winnetka, Kenilworth, New Trier team represents MRED top sales volume as a team in Kenilworth from 1/1/2016-12/31/16.

SPONSORED CONTENT

NORTHSHORE ORTHOPAEDIC INSTITUTE

GETTING PATIENTS BACK TO HEALTHY, PAIN-FREE LIVING For everyone from professional athletes to weekend warriors, serious runners and busy people running errands, joint pain can get in the way. NorthShore Orthopaedic Institute is using the latest treatment techniques and comprehensive coordinated care to help patients reclaim their lives.

NorthShore provides a full spectrum of services for every orthopaedic challenge. Their integrated team brings shared expertise in a wide range of specialties, including Back & Spine, Sports Medicine, Hand & Upper Extremity, Foot & Ankle, Pediatrics, Trauma, and Arthritis Care & Joint Replacement.

NorthShore’s sports medicine expertise is particularly robust.

NorthShore University Health System is the official healthcare partner of the Chicago Bears and Blackhawks. Their doctors are on the field at every Bears game. Those same orthopaedic specialists treat NorthShore patients.

From the latest nonsurgical and minimally invasive treatments to computer- and robot-assisted surgery, NorthShore explores every option for each patient. The team works with patients to precisely diagnose the source of pain and provide the optimal treatment plan for long-term recovery.

“We’re pioneering advanced techniques at NorthShore,” says Dr. Jason Koh, Chairman of the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and an internationally recognized sports medicine expert in knee, shoulder and elbow reconstruction. “One exciting thing we’re doing right now is regenerating patients’ own cartilage to repair their damaged knees.”

NorthShore is regenerating patients’ own cartilage to repair their damaged knees, and Dr. Jason Koh, Chairman of the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, is leading those efforts (top). Dr. Lalit Puri, Division Head for Adult Reconstruction at NorthShore, consults with a patient about joint replacement (bottom).

Recovery is a vital part of the post-surgery process. Specialists precisely tailor pain management to each patient’s needs. Patients get moving the first day to ensure quicker, long-term recovery.

To learn more, call NorthShore Orthopaedic Institute at (855) 929-0100 or visit northshore.org/ortho today.

Specialists are also using 3D printing to create precise anatomical models that perfectly replicate a patient’s unique anatomy. This enables surgeons to plan complex surgeries more precisely.

Joint replacement is another important area of expertise. People are living longer today and looking forward to remaining active and physically fit as they age. But joint damage can slow them down, whether it is caused by arthritis, injury or years of wear and tear. NorthShore’s orthopaedic surgeons are leaders in total hip and knee replacement, utilizing the latest in arthritis treatment, advanced surgical technology and care options.

22

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makeitbetter.net

(855) 929-0100 | northshore.org/ortho

Get back to speeding.

Orthopaedic care for what’s next.

At NorthShore Orthopaedic Institute, we’re regenerating knee cartilage to help runners regain their pace.

The same doctors who treat professional athletes take care of you, exploring every option, from the latest nonsurgical and minimally invasive treatments to computer- and robot-assisted surgery and customized joint replacements. Just as important, we create a coordinated treatment plan, including physical therapy, to get you back to doing the things you love.

For urgent orthopaedic issues, take advantage of our Walk-In Clinics—no appointment needed.

(855) 929-0100 northshore.org/ortho

#CONTRIBUTORS

CONTRIBUTORS We asked some of this issue’s contributors: What’s the one meal you can’t stop thinking about?

Julie Chernoff, Make It Better’s dining editor since its inception in 2007, graduated from Yale University with a degree in English — which she speaks fluently — and added a professional chef’s degree from the California Culinary Academy. She has worked for Boz Scaggs, Rick Bayless and Wolfgang Puck (not all at the same time); and sits on the boards of Les Dames d’Escoffier International and Northlight Theatre. She and husband Josh are empty nesters since adult kids Adam and Leah have flown the coop. Rosie the Cockapoo relishes the extra attention.

“When we were in London visiting friends last summer, we cooked a meal together that involved all the major food groups, including prosciutto and quail eggs; burrata with tomato, peaches and arugula; leg of lamb with wild mushrooms; crispy smashed potatoes and crême brûlée … and copious amounts of amazing French wine. It was delicious, sure, but the act of cooking together with much-loved friends and sitting down to a meal together really made it super special.”

David Hammond is dining and drinking editor at Newcity and contributes to Chicago Tribune and other publications. In 2004, he co-founded LTHForum.com, the 15,000-member food-chat site; for several years he wrote weekly “Food Detective” columns in Chicago Sun-Times; and he writes weekly food columns for Wednesday Journal.

He has written extensively about the culinary traditions of Mexico and Southeast Asia and contributed several chapters to “Street Food around the World.”

“The meals I always think about are the simple ones my Italian grandmother made for me. Just good ingredients, prepared with love. What three-star chef doesn’t want to do exactly that?”

Karl Klockars has been covering food, drink and travel throughout the Midwest since 2008. He began focusing on the craft beer business in 2010 when he helped launch GuysDrinkingBeer.com, which was nominated as one of the nation’s best beer blogs for three straight years by Saveur Magazine. His work has also appeared in Chicago Magazine, Draft Magazine, Thrillist and Time Out Chicago, among others. If you’re buying, he’s having a porter or a pale ale.

“Until we can get a Hattie B’s up here (which strikes me as unlikely), I’ll be counting the seconds until my next plate of Nashville hot chicken from The Budlong Hot Chicken.”

Maddie LaKind is a Chicago-born personal chef, caterer and writer. Her love of gastronomy began with an introduction to the Food Network as a teenager and has since blossomed into a deep-rooted passion. She spent her early career in the food world working at the famed Zingerman’s Deli in Ann Arbor, Michigan, before moving on to other notable spots including Detroit’s Sister Pie bakery, and Floriole bakery, Read It and Eat bookstore and The Social Table in Chicago. In her spare time, she can be found practicing yoga, hosting dinner parties for friends and sifting through her ever-growing cookbook collection.

“The one meal I haven’t been able to stop thinking about to this day is a lunch I ate in Tuscany. The meal began with a small platter of fried zucchini blossoms (picked that day) followed by a lineup of pan-seared pork with fennel seed, slow-cooked pasta Bolognese, homemade gnocchi with cherry tomatoes and basil and, for the grand finale, a simple pine nut tart. I’m counting down the days until I can return!”

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In response to “Better Makers: Blazin’ Babes Masquerade Ball Raises $9,100 for Refugee Children” (makeitbetter.net/masquerade): Thank you! We loved helping @onerefugeechild and the amazing group of women that launched this awesome nonprofit! We can’t wait to see the new playground being built overseas at one of the refugee camps! —@blazinbabesnetwork on Instagram

I just read “How to Raise More Money for Your Favorite Nonprofit” from your website. Great, informative article! —Vee Likes

In response to “Ready to Run: How to Train for a 5K” (makeitbetter.net/5K): A great article on spring running and gearing up for your first 5K of the season. —Kimberly Romic Thanks for the inspiring article. I appreciate your training plan. I plan to sign up for the local 5K races.

—Kathryn Hartrick

2 6 M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 7

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In response to “Neat Method: 5 Tips for an Organized Home” (makeitbetter.net/neat): What fabulous ideas!!!!

—Laure Leigh Miller

In response to “Row With It” (March/April): I just read the story and it’s fabulous. Thank you for capturing ROW in such a beautiful article .... many, many thanks, and GO ROW!! —Jenn Junk, Executive Director of Recovery on Water

Read more “You Said It” online at MAKEITBETTER.NET/YOUSAIDIT

TOP LEFT PHOTO BY JORDAN K. FULLER PHOTOGRAPHY; MIDDLE PHOTO BY JOHN KALAD PHOTOGRAPHY; BOTTOM PHOTO COURTESY OF RACE AGAINST HATE

Thanks for all the emails, letters, tweets and Facebook messages this month! Here’s what you had to say:

321 N. Clark, Suite 500 Chicago, IL 60654 | 847-256-4642 Founder & Editorial Director Susan B. Noyes

Publisher Michelle O’ Rourke Morris

President & Chief

Francia Harrington

Strategy Officer

Chief Operating Officer Sandy Tsuchida

Editor In Chief Brooke McDonald Managing Editor Anna Carlson Digital Editor Will Mendelson Art Director Erica Barraca Designer January Thomas

Executive Sales Planner Gabrielle Tasiopoulos

Beauty Editor Jenny Muslin

Dining Editor Julie Chernoff

Fashion Editor Tracy Clifford

Contributing Writers Brittany Anas Heather Blackmore Megan Craig Amber Gibson

David Hammond Karl Klockars Maddie LaKind Robert Loerzel Kendra Thornton Shannan Younger

Technical Advisor Jennifer Speaker

Image Š Linda Oyama Bryan

Senior Account Executives Denise Borkowski

Julie Carter Barbara Baisley Murray

Manager of Sales Lynne Madorsky perations & Client Relations O

GOT FEEDBACK? Email susan@makeitbetter.net TO ADVERTISE: Contact michellemorris@makeitbetter.net HAVE AN EVENT? Email anna@makeitbetter.net

S PA C E T H AT I S U N I Q U E LY Y O U .

Make It Better North Shore (ISSN No. 2151-0431) is published 6 times per year by Make It Better LLC, 321 N. Clark Street, Suite 500, Chicago, IL 60654 Phone: 847.256.4642. Copyright 2017

by Make It Better LLC. All rights reserved.

Application to Mail at Periodicals Rates is pending at Chicago, IL and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Make It Better, 321 N. Clark Street, Suite 500, Chicago, IL 60654. Make It Better is registered in the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Copyright 2017 by Make It Better LLC. All rights reserved.

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6 Tips to Triple Your Wardrobe and Feel Like New (Without Spending a Dime) As the temperature warms up, it’s tempting to shop ‘til you drop for some new summer outfits. Before you do that, we’ll tell you how to triple your wardrobe and make it feel new without once using your credit card.  MAKEITBETTER.NET/TRIPLE

Credit Card Companies That Encourage Giving What’s better than a shopping spree with your best friends? When you shop and swipe with a credit card that gives back! We’ve rounded up credit cards that encourage donations, and tell you how you can make a difference next time you shop.  MAKEITBETTER.NET/CREDITCARD

what’s hot on makeitbetter.net ENTERTAINMENT

FASHION

8 Nonfiction Books That Highlight Awesome Women

Stylish and Sustainable Swimwear

GUIDES

2017 Best of Fitness: Workouts, Classes and Tips for Better Exercise

28

M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 7

BETTER YOU

What You Need to Know About End-of-Life Documents FOOD

4 Must-Try Locally Owned Bakeries in Chicago

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Best Cosmetic Companies That Give Back What’s better than pampering your skin with great beauty products? Finding beauty products that “do good” not just for your skin, but for the world. We’ve rounded up the best beauty companies that give back.

Trust us — your skin and your soul will be grateful.  MAKEITBETTER.NET/ COSMETICS

YOU WANT IT, WE GOT IT, IT’S ALL HERE...

ROSEMONT

COM

# W H AT S N E W

BY JULIE CHERNOFF AND WILL MENDELSON

From Hawaii with Love

Kitchen 2.0

TasteBuds Kitchen, which opened in May, offers fun, unique and creative classes and events for kids, teens, adults and families alike. Owner Amanda Marijanovic opened the kitchen with a mission of striving to create a lifestyle around connecting, learning and growing in the culinary playground of the kitchen.

From field trips and birthday parties, to adult BYOB workshops and corporate events, there’s something everyone can learn at TBK. They also offer a fun summer camp for kids, where campers bake sweet treats every Thursday, have a bake sale and donate proceeds to Cookies for Kids’ Cancer. Now that’s sweet. TASTE BUDS KITCHEN: 2521 Waukegan Road, Bannockburn, 847-230-0330, tastebudskitchen.com —WM

Get Lucky

We All Scream

Graeter’s Ice Cream, a family-owned ice cream maker, opened its new Winnetka location on March 20. Chip Graeter, a fourth-generation owner, cut the ceremonial ribbon at the shop’s grand opening. Since 1870, Graeter’s has used French Pots, a small batch, artisanal method of making ice cream, which allows for their signature, scrumptious flavors. The new Winnetka location features the creamery’s famous sundaes, milkshakes, sodas and candy. We’re betting this new location in the Hubbard Woods area will be a hot spot this summer.

GRAETER’S: 940 Green Bay Road, Winnetka, 847-441-1725, graeters.com —WM 30

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The Bread & Buddha Kitchen is a new concept on the North Shore that delivers prepared, good-foryou organic food to fill your fridge. Founded by Certified Holistic Health Coach Pam Gross, The Bread & Buddha Kitchen was created to answer her clients’ pleas to “just cook for them.” Gross encourages her clients to use her healthy recipe blog, The Bread & Buddha, to plan, shop and cook on her 30-day wellness program.

Along with Personal Chef Tim Carden, customers get the wellness team of their dreams. Cooked locally within hours of delivery, each menu contains flavorful lean proteins, healthy fats, healthy carbs and loads of veggies to be mixed and matched for nutritious lunches, dinners and snacks. BBK also offers a weekly vegan menu and uses minimal plant-based packaging to take convenient, conscious living to a new level. THE BREAD & BUDDHA KITCHEN: 1788 2nd St., Highland Park, 312-972-4347, thebreadandbuddhakitchen.com —WM

PHOTOS COURTESY OF EACH BUSINESS

Hawaiian pokē (pronounced “po-kay”) has made it to the North Shore! Aloha Pokē Co. opened in Evanston in mid-March, and Northwestern students and residents alike are lining up for a taste of sashimi-quality seafood combined with flavor-packed ingredients (think ginger, jalapeño, pineapple, avocado and seaweed) and umami-laden sauces (yuzu ranch, wasabi, sesame vinaigrette). Pick a size ($7.50/$9.50/$14.50), then pack your bowl with a base of mixed greens, or white or brown rice; add a “marinated or naked” protein (ahi tuna, salmon or tofu); then choose your own add-ons, or try a house creation. The fastcasual pokē concept from Deerfield native Zach Friedlander has been tearing it up at Aloha’s Loop and Lakeview locations; Chicagoans seemingly can’t get enough of this light new meal option. Fresh, healthy and fast — what’s not to love? ALOHA POK Ē CO.: 630 Davis St., Evanston, alohapokeco.com ­—JC

n at i o n a l

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# C E L E B R AT E

BY WILL MENDELSON

Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago

K.I.D.S.S. for Kids, an affiliated organization of Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago, celebrates its 25th anniversary throughout 2017. In January, they hosted their signature event, Aon Step Up for Kids, which raised $770,000 for the Lurie Children’s Department of Family Services. Learn more at kidssforkids.org. Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago: 225 E. Chicago Ave., Chicago, 312-227-4000, luriechildrens.org

School of St. Mary The School of St. Mary is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year. From the first day the Sisters of Mercy opened the school doors in 1917 to the present, the School of St. Mary has set a standard of excellence. Though active boards have replaced chalkboards and computers have supplanted notebooks, one thing has remained constant through the years: a rigorous academic curriculum firmly grounded in the Roman Catholic faith.

To commemorate this occasion, several events are planned for students, alumni and the entire parish community, culminating in a Centennial Celebration on Sept. 23, 2017. School of St. Mary: 900 West Everett Road, Lake Forest, 847-238-9800, schoolofstmary.org

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF EACH ORGANIZATION

YWCA Lake County YWCA Lake County celebrates its 95th anniversary in 2017 with a special luncheon celebration featuring a keynote speech by New York Times best-selling author Rebecca Skloot on May 18. Besides this 39th annual Women of Achievement Leadership Luncheon, other special anniversary events include the Drive Fore Change charity golf classic on July 28; a cocktail party in October; and a holiday open house in December. Learn more about upcoming events at ywcalakecounty.org. YWCA Lake County: 1425 Tri-State Parkway #180, Gurnee, 847-662-4247, ywcalakecounty.org

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#MAKEADIFFERENCE

BE A FOODIE FOR GOOD

BY JULIE CHERNOFF

Chicago is an obsessive foodie town to its core, but it’s also a city of big-hearted people who are eager to give back. What happens when the two ideologies collide? The foodie charity event, and Chicago has perfected it.

Most people love a good auction, especially to raise money for a reputable cause. But when you add in gourmet experiences that go far beyond the gift certificate — such as dinner for 10 in Rick Bayless’ garden, a personal cooking lesson with Paul Kahan or Carrie Nahabedian, or perhaps tagging along on a review with Breakfast Queen Ina Pinkney — the bidding can go sky-high, and the charity benefits.

The key piece of the puzzle, though, is the celebrity chef angle.

When else would you get to sample the cuisine of numerous nationally known chefs and restaurants all at one go? Or sip your way through a plethora of lush wines, craft beers and artisanal distilled products? The foodie charity event brings it all together in a neat package.

To be fair, the trend didn’t start here. In 1981, then-New York Magazine restaurant critic Gael Greene joined forces with the legendary James Beard to raise funds for feeding New York City’s homebound elderly on weekends and holidays when deliveries weren’t otherwise happening. They financed Citymeals on Wheels largely through friends and colleagues in the hospitality industry. In 1985, NYC chefs Jonathan Waxman and Larry Forgione planned a birthday party for Beard that became a memorial, bringing in notable chefs from around the country to honor him. That was the first Chefs’ Tribute to Citymeals on Wheels; the 32nd will be held at NYC’s Rockefeller Center on June 12.

By this point, you should be both hungry … and inspired. So be sure to check out these annual charitable events that feature the food and beverages of your dreams, all for a good cause.

GREEN CITY MARKET CHEF BBQ July 20, 2017 This is one of the hippest events around. Each summer, more than 100 of Chicago’s top chefs and craft beverage suppliers set up shop in Lincoln Park, offering tasting portions of comestibles featuring the local and sustainable produce, meat and dairy products found at the market. When the weather is cooperating, it’s like the best picnic ever. Proceeds go to GCM’s educational programs, including Edible Gardens, Club Sprouts and Compost

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Charity comes from the heart … but sometimes via the stomach.

Program, and access initiatives (Link/SNAP) for underserved populations. greencitymarket.org CHICAGO GOURMET Sept. 22-24, 2017 This year marks the 10th edition of Chicago Gourmet, an outdoor fine food and beverage festival held in Millennium Park.

Spearheaded by the Illinois Restaurant Association to showcase Chicago’s incredible restaurant scene, it’s grown exponentially with the addition of title partners Bon Appetit and presenting sponsor Southern Glazer Wine & Spirits. Pre-events like the Hamburger Hop have drawn huge crowds; special tickets are sold for the Grand Cru tent, which houses some of the world’s best wines. Proceeds from the online auctions and raffles will be donated to the Illinois Restaurant Association Educational Foundation, which provides scholarships to culinary students and continuing education for industry professionals. chicagogourmet.org MARCH OF DIMES SIGNATURE CHEFS AUCTION Oct. 20, 2017 This culinary showcase features Chicago’s top chefs sampling their best dishes, combined with craft cocktails, beer and wine, special auction packages and live music. This year’s event, held at the Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel, raises funds for the March of Dimes’ campaign to end premature births, thereby increasing a baby’s odds for survival and good health. marchofdimes.org MEALS ON WHEELS CHICAGO CELEBRITY CHEF BALL Nov. 10, 2017 Inspired by the success of NYC’s Citymeals on Wheels, this longstanding event brings in all-star chefs from Chicago and around the country to cook for a two-part event: the Tasting Party, a dine-around event with 40 restaurant and cocktail stations and silent auction; and an earlier six-course VIP Chef’s Table dinner that pairs three chefs with their own table of ten guests. Each cluster has its own theme and menu, culminating in a VIP dessert buffet and live auction. This year’s event will once again be held at Morgan Manufacturing. Proceeds support Meal on Wheels Chicago, bringing food to homebound seniors and those with disabilities. mealsonwheelschicago.org

Read more MAKEITBETTER.NET/PHILANTHROPY

PHOTO COURTESY OF MEALS ON WHEELS

Meals on Wheels Celebrity Chef Ball

# R E A L E S TAT E

Sweeping views of Lake Geneva from four-bedroom home; listed by Keefe Real Estate for $1,999,900. (top left) Five-bedroom home on Lake Geneva with 128 feet of water frontage; listed by Keefe Real Estate for $7,995,000. (top right) Homes surround Powers Lake in summer as a sailboat race takes place. (bottom left)

AT THE LAKE

BY MEGAN CRAIG

From the obvious (Lake Michigan) to the fancy (Lake Geneva) to the quaint (any of dozens of other lakes in far northern Illinois or southeastern Wisconsin), second-home buyers in the Chicago area know where they want to be, and it’s “at the lake.”

drive of your primary residence. That allows the family to spend full days together on the lake while still being able to get back for kids’ sporting events, or to spend Sunday nights at the lake house and drive home in time for work on Monday morning.

“Lake Geneva is the most well-known, of course, and I think that’s why it gets everyone’s attention,” says Tom Keefe of Keefe Real Estate, which has offices spread throughout southeastern Wisconsin. “But people come looking and realize there are dozens of other beautiful options up here, depending on their particular interests and what they want to get out of being on the lake.”

“You can spend more time in your lake home that way and get more use out of it,” Keating says.

It’s all about location. Not everyone can afford a home on Lake Michigan or Lake Geneva — in fact, most people have to look elsewhere when considering a second-home purchase.

“Lake Geneva demands higher prices,” says Gina Nocek, an agent with @properties in Lake Geneva. “There are so many other lakes in the area where you can have a lakefront property for a much more reasonable price.”

On average, Nocek sells homes on Lake Geneva for between $2-3 million. The least expensive listing right now is about $1 million, for a “teardown property,” and the most expensive is more than $14 million.

And price isn’t the only reason to consider buying a home on one of the other lakes in the area. In fact, Keith Keating of Keating Real Estate in Twin Lakes says he would urge people to go for another nearby lake — for example, Powers Lake ­— simply because those lakes tend to be more family-friendly and less busy.

“A lot of my clients come from Lake Geneva. They’ve been there, done that for the prestige, but when it comes down to having quality family time, they’re looking for something else,” Keating says.

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According to Keefe, the best way to meet that two-hour time limit — and get everything else the buyer might want out of a second home on the lake — is to work directly with a lakefront expert. An agent will help the buyer determine not only where to buy, but what kind of property to buy.

Some people want high-end appliances in a large home, while others want quaint, cottage-style homes, Nocek says. Some buyers are looking for a home on a large piece of land, while others don’t mind close neighbors, as long as there are trees and a great view.

Keating says he advises people to pay more attention to the property itself than to the house: “We can always remodel the house, but you can’t change the property — they’re not building any more lakes,” he says.

Buying a second home isn’t like buying a primary home, Keefe says, because the buyer usually doesn’t absolutely need the second home. That means buyers can take their time to find exactly what they’re looking for.

“Because it’s a second home, I think it’s something you have to fall in love with,” he says. “But I think it all comes down to the lake. The draw is always going to be getting near the water and having access to it.”

Read more at MAKEITBETTER.NET/REALESTATE

BOTTOM LEFT PHOTO BY KEATING REAL ESTATE; OTHER PHOTOS BY KEEFE REAL ESTATE

When it comes to getting a second home in Chicagoland, many potential buyers are looking to spend their weekends on the water.

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Steps from the lake, enjoying 37 feet of level frontage on Fontana’s South Lake Shore Drive. You will find this beatuiful 7+ bedroom custom designed home.

W5573 ORIOLE DR, ELKHORN | $1,399,900

75 HILLSIDE DR, LAKE GENEVA | $1,299,000

927 W MAIN ST, LAKE GENEVA | $650,000

Jerry Kroupa | 262-949-3618

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Rob Edwards | 262-903-0566

Affordable lakefront getaway with private pier, room for boat and 2 jet skis. 21 feet of frontage, large deck, just steps from downtown Lake Geneva. Don’t miss this!

Built in 1908 the Historic John Jennings Home is a brick American Foursquare located across the street from Geneva Lake in the midst of downtown Lake Geneva.

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552 SAUK TRL, GENEVA LAKE | $5,595,000

637 TREVINO DR, GENEVA NATIONAL | $289,000

LOT 116 HWY 89, WHITEWATER | $995,000

Tricia Forbeck | 262-745-1145

Deb Schroeder | 262-745-2661

Tom Martin | 262-215-0806

Dont’ miss this sought after Fontana lakefront property with 102’ of frontage & views from every vantage point. Fully furnished 9000 sq.ft. home; 5BR’s, 6 full baths, (2).5 baths.

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Lovely 3-4BR unit with wall of windows overlooking patio and pond. First floor master suite and 2nd BR & BA. Features FP, granite and walnut floors. Finished LL.

116 acres M/L. Currently rented for $250 per acre per year with a good rental history. Large 100x200 free span pole building with electric and water.

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Headquartered in Lake Geneva, WI since 1943, Keefe Real Estate has seven offices across Southeastern Wisconsin and over eighty highly experienced agents to serve you.

Our family-owned company is the market leader and has served Chicagoland buyers for 3 generations. With over forty lakes, dozens of charming towns, and boundless beautiful countryside, your perfect Wisconsin get-away awaits.

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ILLINOIS REALTOR REFERRALS WELCOME AT (262) 248-4492

#EVENTS

MAY/JUNE HIGHLIGHTS

BY ANNA CARLSON

Bus Tour of Ludwig Mies Van der Rohe’s Farnsworth House and McCormick House May 3 Depart from the Historical Society, 509 E. Deerpath, Lake Forest | lflbhistory.org One Book, Everybody Reads: Author Affinity Konar Discusses “Mischling” May 7 Wilmette Jr. High School Auditorium, 620 Locust Road, Wilmette | wilmettelibrary.info Touch a Truck Family Festival May 7 NIPSTA, 2300 Patriot Blvd., Glenview kohlchildrensmuseum.org Book Lovers’ Lunch Featuring Melanie Benjamin May 12 Bernie’s Book Bank, 917 N. Shore Drive, Lake Bluff berniesbookbank.org/bookloverslunch Vet for a Day May 13 Historic Wagner Farm, 1510 Wagner Road, Glenview | glenviewparks.org Chicago Craft Beer Week May 18-25 Chicago | chibeerweek.com Chicago Sky vs. Atlanta Dream May 19 Allstate Arena, 6920 N. Mannheim Road, Rosemont | sky.wnba.com Wright Plus 150 May 20 Oak Park | flwright.org Malott Japanese Garden Children’s Festival May 20-21 Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe chicagobotanic.org

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Collectors’ Car Garage’s Cars & Cops May 21 Collectors’ Car Garage, 2500 W. Bradley Place, Chicago | ccgchicago.com

Audra McDonald in Concert May 22 Steppenwolf Theatre Company, 1650 N. Halsted St., Chicago | steppenwolf.org

Illinois Holocaust Museum Young Professional Committee’s Race for Humanity 5K and 1K Kids Fun Run May 21 Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center, 9603 Woods Drive, Skokie ilholocaustmuseum.org

“King Liz” Opens May 24 Windy City Playhouse, 3014 W. Irving Park Road, Chicago | windycityplayhouse.com

Make It Better is a proud media sponsor of these events: 2017 Volunteer Center Recognition Event: Growing Volunteerism Through Inspiration May 4 Winnetka Community House, 620 Lincoln Ave., Winnetka | volunteercenterhelps.org A Safe Place’s Wine, Women & Shoes May 6 Ravinia Festival, 418 Sheridan Road, Highland Park | asafeplaceforhelp.org Mother/Daughter Blow Out Event May 10 Pascal Pour Elle, 368 Park Ave., Glencoe pascalpourelle.com Rush University Medical Center Woman’s Board’s 23rd Annual Spring Luncheon May 11 Hilton Chicago, 720 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago | thewomansboard.org Lincoln Park Community Shelter’s Metamorphosis May 12 Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, 2430 N. Cannon Drive, Chicago | lpcsonline.org Chicago Child Care Society’s Spring Luncheon May 18 The Casino, 195 E. Delaware Place, Chicago | cccsociety.org Worldwide Fistula Fund’s An Evening to Restore Dignity May 18 Moe’s Cantina, 155 W. Kinzie St., Chicago worldwidefistulafund.org

Baker Demonstration School’s 2017 Baker 5K May 26 Gillson Park, Sheridan Road and Michigan Ave., Wilmette bakerdemonstrationschool.org Lake Geneva Restaurant Week June 2-11 Lake Geneva, Wisconsin visitlakegeneva.com Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago’s Move for the Kids 5K Walk/Run June 10 Soldier Field, 1410 Museum Campus Drive, Chicago luriechildrens.org/moveforthekids Fresh Start Caring for Kids Foundation’s 2017 Celebrity Golf Classic Hosted by Jermaine Dye June 12 The Glen Club, 2901 W. Lake Ave., Glenview freshstartkids.org Winnetka Music Festival June 23-24 Winnetka | winnetkamusicfestival.com Northfield Township Food Pantry’s Pantry Palooza June 24 Metra parking lot at Lehigh Street, Glenview | twp.northfield.il.us/pantry.html North Shore Art League’s Art in the Village June 24-25 Hubbard Woods Park, 939 Green Bay Road, Winnetka northshoreartleague.org

PHOTO COURTESY OF STEPPENWOLF THEATRE COMPANY

Audra McDonald

2017 Lake Forest Showhouse and Gardens Ends May 21 Lake Forest | lakeforestshowhouse.com

WHI S T LE R’ S Mother An American Icon Returns to Chicago Through May 21 James McNeill Whistler. Arrangement in Grey and Black No. 1 (Portrait of the Artist’s Mother) (detail), 1871.

Musée d’Orsay, Paris, RF 699. © RMN-Grand Palais / Art Resource, NY.

2017

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#CHICAGOSUMMER

Jurassic World: The Exhibition

THE

SUMMER GO GUIDE

PHOTO © THE FIELD MUSUEM

PHOTO BY HOSSEIN FATIMI

BY ANNA CARLSON

Another summer stretches out before us — 99 days ready to be filled with festivals, outdoor movies, museum visits, live music, sporting events and more. But before you head out and start enjoying everything this season has to offer, start planning with our Summer Go Guide.

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#CHICAGOSUMMER

Origami in the Garden

Model Railroad Garden Opens May 13 Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe chicagbotanic.org This favorite family-friendly attraction is back with 18 model trains, almost 50 mini American landmarks, 5,000 plants and more. Plus, take advantage of the Garden’s Summer Family Fun Pack, which includes parking and five tickets to both the Model Railroad Garden and Butterflies & Blooms.

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“T.” May 18 to June 25 American Theater Company, 1909 W. Byron St., Chicago | atcweb.org This “darkly funny and unrelenting” play, making its world premiere in Chicago, takes a look at the Tonya Harding/Nancy Kerrigan saga.

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Origami in the Garden Opens May 19 The Morton Arboretum, 4100 Illinois Route 53, Lisle | mortonarb.org Santa Fe artists Kevin and Jennifer Box created this exhibition of large-scale metal sculptures, which can be seen throughout the Arboretum (perfect for those who want to explore the entire grounds). An opening celebration will take place May 20-21.

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Jurassic World: The Exhibition Opens May 26 The Field Museum, 1400 S. Lake Shore Drive, Chicago | fieldmuseum.org “Jurassic World” comes to life in this can’t-miss exhibit, which is making its M AY

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Midwest debut at The Field Museum and runs through Jan. 7, 2018. Get an up-close look at Brachiosaurus, Velociraptor and Tyrannosaurus rex as you explore interactive educational areas.

Aon Summer Fireworks May 27 27 Begins Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago | navypier.com On Wednesdays and Saturdays from Memorial Day to Labor Day, head out to Navy Pier for a fantastic fireworks show. You might even consider catching the show from the water with Tall Ship Windy, Entertainment Cruises, Waterriders Kayaks or Shoreline Sightseeing.

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Stories in the Woods June 1 Heller Nature Center, 2821 Ridge Road, Highland Park | pdhp.org A naturalist will lead story time and a short hike during this Park District of Highland Park event. Plus, kids will work on a craft they can then take home.

JUNE

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PHOTO COURTESY OF MORTON ARBORETUM

“Black Pearl: A Tribute Josephine Baker” 6 to May 6 to June 25 Black Ensemble Theater, 4450 N. Clark St., Chicago blackensembletheater.org Black Ensemble Theater’s latest show will take audiences on a journey through the life of singer and activist Josephine Baker.

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AFTER-SCHOOL SEMESTER CLASSES MAY 9-JUNE 1 Ages 5-8 / Tues 4pm Ages 9-13 / Wed 4:30pm Ages 2-4 with caregiver / Thurs 10am

KIDS NIGHT OUT! FRI MAY 19 FRI JUNE 16 Ages 5-12, 5-8pm

TEEN WORKSHOP THURS MAY 25 THURS JUNE 29 Ages 13-18, 5-7pm

SUMMER COOKING CAMPS June 5-August 25 Ages 4-8 / 9:00-12:00 Ages 9-13 / 1:00-4:00 Every day is a new culinary adventure!

Register by the week or the day.

Mother’s Day Tea Party SAT MAY 13, 9am (Ages 5-8) SUN MAY 14, 9am (Ages 2-5)

Mother’s Day Brunch SUN MAY 14, 11am (Ages 9+ family)

Father’s Day Pizza Party SAT JUNE 17, 5pm (Ages 5-8) SUN JUNE 18, 5pm (Ages 9+ family)

ADULT BYOB WORKSHOPS Multiple classes each week - Register today!

Reserve our entire Kitchen Studio for your next private event! Perfect for birthdays, bridal/baby showers, corporates, or any occasion worth celebrating.

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D E PA RT I N G F R O M M I C H I G A N AV E N U E A N D WAC K E R D R I V E O N C H I C AG O ’ S R I V E R WA L K

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#CHICAGOSUMMER

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Garden Chef Series May 27 27 Begins Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe chicagobotanic.org On Saturdays and Sundays throughout the summer, Chicago Botanic Garden will host favorite chefs who will demonstrate cooking skills and prepare dishes in the open-air amphitheater of the Regenstein Fruit & Vegetable Garden.

You’ll then be able to make these recipes at home all season long.

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Chicago Bandits vs. Akron Racers June 1-3 The Ballpark at Rosemont, 27 Jennie Finch Way, Rosemont | chicagobandits.com Chicago’s women’s professional softball team will open their 2017 season against the Akron Racers.

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Garden Chef Series at Chicago Botanic Garden

JUNE

PHOTOS COURTESY OF CHICAGO BOTANIC GARDEN (TOP); THE DUSTBOWL REVIVAL (MIDDLE); AND MARGIE KORSHAK INC. (BOTTOM)

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Northshore Concert Band: “On The Town” June 4 Pick-Staiger Concert Hall, 50 Arts Circle Drive, Evanston | northshoreband.org For their season finale, the Northshore Concert Band will present pieces from the U.S. and Latin America. Highlights include Leonard Bernstein’s “On the Town” and H. Owen Reed’s “La Fiesta Mexicana.”

JUNE

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Chicago Red Stars vs.

4 Seattle Reign FC June 4 Toyota Park, 7000 S. Harlem Ave., Bridgeview | chicagoredstars.com The Red Stars will take on Megan Rapinoe and Seattle Reign FC in their first June match.

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The Dustbowl Revival

Central Street Art Walk 2017 9-11 9 June Evanston | centralstreet-evanston.com Spend a day exploring Evanston’s Central Street (and discovering new artists while you’re at it).

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Lake Geneva Paint-In June 10 Downtown Lake Geneva, Wisconsin visitlakegeneva.com Get out of town for a day this summer and explore Lake Geneva as local artists set up shop on the sidewalks of the downtown area.

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Exhibitionism — The Rolling Stones

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Concerts in the Park June 14 14 Begins Jackman Park, 1930 Prairie St., Glenview | glenviewparks.org Glenview’s outdoor concert series kicks off with the Glenview Concert Band, so pack a picnic, grab a blanket and head out to Jackman Park Wednesdays through Aug. 2.

JUNE

Park at Wrigley’s Free Summer Series 14 Movies Begins June 14 Park at Wrigley, 3637 N. Clark St., Chicago parkatwrigley.com The new Park at Wrigley will host free movie screenings, presented by Music Box Theatre, throughout the summer.

It all kicks off with (what else?) “The Sandlot.”

JUNE

Promenade of Art 10-11 10 June Arlington Heights amdurproductions.com In its 15th year, Promenade of Art will feature around 125 juried artists showcasing paintings, photographs, jewelry, furniture and more.

JUNE

Author Event: Fredrik Backman June 14 Barnes & Noble, 55 Old Orchard Center, Skokie | barnesandnoble.com Fredrik Backman, author of “A Man Called Ove” and “My Grandmother Asked Me to Tell You She’s Sorry,” returned in April with “Beartown,” set in a small town that’s rallying around their junior ice hockey team. Add the book to your summer reading list and then meet Backman at Barnes & Noble at Westfield Old Orchard.

Movies in the Park 2017: Queen of Katwe” 17 “The June 17 The DuSable Museum of African American History, 740 E. 56th Place, Chicago dusablemuseum.org Spend a day at DuSable and then spend the evening under the stars with a free screening of Disney’s “The Queen of Katwe,” starring Madina Nalwanga, David Oyelowo and Lupita Nyong’o.

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The Dustbowl Revival 22 22 June SPACE, 1245 Chicago Ave., Evanston | evanstonspace.com This group returns to SPACE with “velvety vocals over a sea of quick-picking strings,” as our music columnist Lyndsey Havens wrote back in May 2016.

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Summer Nights June 16 16 Begins Brookfield Zoo, 8400 31st St., Brookfield | czs.org On Fridays and Saturdays through Aug. 12, Brookfield Zoo will host the fourth season of Summer Nights. Visit the zoo after dark for enhanced dining options, a beer and wine garden, live music, kids’ activities, a laser light show and more.

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Festival of Fine Arts 24-25 24 June Highland Park amdurproductions.com This festival will return this summer to highlight artists in categories like ceramics, glass, print making, drawing, stone, watercolor and more.

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Promenade of Art

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PHOTO COURTESY OF AMDUR PRODUCTIONS

Pilsen Food Truck Social June 10-11 Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood pilsenfoodtrucksocial.com Enjoy live music and a variety of eats from local food trucks for a $5 optional donation.

A portion of proceeds will benefit the Illinois Food Truck Owners Association, Saint Procopius Church’s food bank and soup kitchen, and Yollocalli Arts Reach.

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#CHICAGOSUMMER #CHICAGOSUMMER

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“Shakespeare in Love” June 11 11 Ends Chicago Shakespeare Theater, 800 E. Grand Ave., Chicago | chicagoshakes.com Don’t miss the Chicago premiere of this stage adaptation of the Oscar-winning film. The Sunday Times (UK) called it “riotously funny.”

JUNE

Evanston Chamber Artisan 24 SummerFest June 24-25 Church St. and Sherman Ave., Evanston chicagoevents.com Fountain Square Art Festival is now Evanston Chamber Artisan SummerFest, which will feature eco-friendly art created with recycled and found materials.

Plus, enjoy beer and wine tastings both afternoons from 2-6 p.m., live music, food and FamilyFest.

JUNE

Ribfest 2017 June 30 to July 3 724 S. West St., Naperville ribfest.net Naperville’s Ribfest is celebrating 30 years with delicious food and drinks, live music from national bands, and family activities like carnival rides, inflatables, magic shows and more.

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raised more than $15.5 million to support the prevention of child abuse and domestic violence?

Exhibitionism — The Rolling Stones Closes July 30 Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago stonesexhibitionism.com The Rolling Stones’ first major exhibition has made its way to Chicago with more than 500 items from the band’s archive. Fans will see instruments, clothes, handwritten lyric books, unseen photos and more, including a “backstage-to-onstage 3D concert experience.”

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If you haven’t yet visited this exhibit, make sure to visit the Museum of Science and Industry this summer to see the Golden Gate Bridge, International Space Station, Roman Colosseum and more made entirely of LEGOs. Disney’s “Aladdin” Closes Sept. 10 Cadillac Palace Theatre, 151 W. Randolph St., Chicago broadwayinchicago.com Take a trip to Agrabah this summer as Disney’s “Aladdin” comes to Chicago.

You’ll be dancing in your seat thanks to favorite songs from the animated film, as well as new hits you won’t be able to get out of your head. Plus, Adam Jacobs, who originated Aladdin on Broadway, will play the role again on this tour.

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2017 WINNETKA MUSIC FESTIVAL EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE COMMUNITY’S HOTTEST MUSIC EVENT OF THE SUMMER

BY JESSICA SUSS

Winnetka is getting ready to host its first-ever music festival on June 23 and 24. Make It Better is thrilled to be the media sponsor of this groundbreaking event, which will be jam-packed with a lineup of rising stars in the music industry (and one very special main event, but that’s still a secret!). In addition to handpicked artists, the festival will also feature tons of food, live street performances, and much more.

Here’s what you need to know.

First, check out the amazing lineup of top emerging bands, who have played important stages at SXSW, Firefly Music Fest in Delaware, The Grand Ol’ Opry, and have shared stages with top artists such as John Legend, John Mayer, Carly Simon, Vince Gill and more.

The Friday night kickoff concert will feature The Accidentals, an indie trio from nearby Traverse City, Michigan. The Saturday lineup will include Alabaster, a psychedelic blues-rock jam; The War on Peace, an electronic indie-pop band; Heather Maloney, a folk-rock singer-songwriter; Great American Canyon Band, an indie-folk duo; Joe Hertler & the Rainbow Seekers, a funk, soul, R&B band; Brendan James, a piano-based singer-songwriter; Logan Brill, Nashville-based country artist; and Phoenixbased Jared & The Mill, a self-described "western indie rock band" that has shared stages with the likes of Zac Brown Band, Barry Gibb, Boy & Bear, War on Drugs, Wildfeathers, Cake, Flogging Molly, The Killers, Allen Stone and more.

There will also be a Family Stage on Saturday, featuring CREW, a kid-rock band from our very own Glencoe; Jess Godwin, a pop singer-songwriter from Chicago; and Manny Torres of “American Idol” and Ethan Butler of “The Voice.”

“These are established, touring artists … we’re bringing in vetted acts that tour all over the country. It’s not just local music,” says Val Haller, founder of boutique music website Valslist.com, and one of the creators of the Winnetka Music Festival. “We’re bringing this hand-picked lineup of bands to showcase a variety of genres and to showcase our beautiful town at the same time. It’s a true 'destination festival.'"

The official concert headliner will be announced on May 13 on makeitbetter.net, so keep your eyes peeled! We can’t say any more here, but they’ve been featured on CONAN, The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon, and Lollapalooza … so that’s exciting.

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Fans of Mumford & Sons and The Lumineers won’t want to miss Jared & The Mill (pictured), whose music WUWM public radio Milwaukee describes as “ripe with plenty of instrumentation including: guitars, a banjo, mandolin, accordion, keyboard, bass and a beautiful range of vocals."

In addition to professional acts, the festival will also feature street buskers from local schools. These young performers auditioned for the honor of playing in and around the streets and businesses of Winnetka. “They’re going to be the spice sprinkled on top of the main stage acts,” Haller says. “It all ties in with how the village wants to be a host in every way — to the bands and the concertgoers in our town.”

If you’re headed to the fest for the music, you’ll definitely stay for the food. The festival will feature a number of food trucks, and local restaurants will be playing a big role in making sure concertgoers are fed and watered. There will be opportunities to sample new craft beers and plenty of wine as well.

If the idea of this music festival really speaks to you, you can even get a personalized Winnetka Music Festival street banner. These will sell for $500 each (a contribution to the festival), and will be hung on the lampposts on Green Bay Road from May 26 through June 24. Each banner can be personalized with a family name and a message — think Father’s Day or graduation present for a family member who loves music.

“I think what differentiates this festival from many others is this is a curated list of artists,” Haller says. “This festival is an emerging artist showcase. These are some of the newest artists out there who are getting major traction in the industry. I’m excited to bring that to a big audience … introducing a dozen new artists to busy adults who might not have time to find out about those bands on their own.”

Basically, if you want the hip lowdown on the hot new bands to listen to (and who doesn’t?), you’ll want to be at the Winnetka Music Festival. And stay tuned for the reveal of the big headliner by Make It Better on May 13!

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ALL IN THE FAMILY

BY JULIE CHERNOFF

Is blood thicker than water? For these three multi-generational Chicago restaurant families, it’s all relative.

Growing up in the restaurant industry can be a grounding experience.

While schoolmates may spend their weekends running around the neighborhood or meeting friends at the mall, restaurant kids are learning how to work the front and back of the house. For the progeny of the three families profiled here, those early weekend and summer days spent seating guests, wiping down menus and bussing tables were formative in many ways, instilling a lifelong love of and respect for the family business — and each other.

THE STEFANIS Mom Karen and daughter Gina

Their restaurant business was soon booming, with Lino’s on Ontario and Stefani’s in Northbrook following the success of the original Stefani’s on Fullerton. Tuscany on Taylor opened in 1990, another strategic placement in a then-transitional neighborhood.

Riva Crab House, Tavern on Rush, 437 Rush, Tuscany Oakbrook and Tuscany Wheeling, and seasonal North Street Beach favorite Castaways Bar and Grill all followed. Karen, who "wanted her own thing,” opened a clothing store with some partners, while Stefani family life at the Lincolnwood homestead was a happy tumble of school, work, friends and relatives.

Gina started working at Castaways at age 15, and every summer through college. During school breaks, she worked at Riva on Navy Pier. “It was important to our parents that we figure out our own passion,” she shares. So after graduating from DePaul in 2008, Gina interned on the events team of a Chicago-based public affairs company, then did freelance event work for a few years, overseeing site logistics and helping clients realize their vision while refining her own. By 2013, she was ready to come back and commit herself to the Stefani restaurant world.

Karen followed a different path back to the family business. In 2003, her mother was diagnosed with dementia, and Karen dropped everything to spend all the time with her she could.

As a distraction, she started working with the catering arm part-time in 2006. At loose ends after losing her mother in 2008, Karen realized she truly loved people and planning parties. Soon, she was working full-time with the senior catering sales manager building up the Phil Stefani Signature Events catering division — and never looked back.

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Gina returned in 2013 to partner full-time with Karen in what then became Inspired Catering & Events by Karen and Gina Stefani. Karen, as president of the company, is the networker, and Gina handles the operations. In 2016, Gina opened MAD Social, the first new Stefani restaurant in 14 years, where she works closely with her father. “People whose parents used to go to Stefani’s on Fullerton, their kids live in the West Loop and come into MAD Social,” says Gina. It’s the Chicago dining scene come full circle in more ways than one.

The whole family talks every day, including Anthony, who works full-time for the Chicago Blackhawks in their sponsorship department, but also makes time to help out with the Stefani Restaurants’ social media and gives Gina “business ideas.” Says Karen, “As a mother, I’m in the middle of the whole mixture, so it’s hard, but it’s working.”

Building a family business together means finding the right balance of family and work. “I love that my weaknesses are her strengths,” says Gina. “One thing my mom has always instilled in me is the importance of confidence. I keep this thought in mind whenever I am working on a new project/event or attending a function. Instead of getting intimidated or nervous, I remind myself that I am where I am today because I have put in the time and worked hard and strongly believe I am good at what I do.”

When asked how her daughter inspires her, Karen’s answer is heartfelt. “Having a daughter taught me what unconditional love is all about. I was on the other side of it with my mom, but now I understand it from both perspectives. Since the moment Gina was born, no matter what life has sent our way, she has been my best friend and I’m so proud of the woman she has become.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF GINA AND KAREN STEFANI

When Karen and Phil Stefani opened their first restaurant, Stefani’s on Fullerton, in 1980, they didn’t realize it was the cornerstone of a future hospitality empire, Phil Stefani Signature Restaurants. Phil, then working in the travel business, wanted to open an authentic Northern Italian place where his father Luigi and uncle Lino could work together. Karen worked in the office batching credit cards, which she juggled with daughter Gina, born in 1984, and son Anthony, who came along in 1987.

#THEDININGISSUE

THE BANNOS BOYS Dad Jimmy and son Jimmy Jr. Jimmy Bannos (Heaven on Seven) and Jimmy Bannos, Jr. (The Purple Pig) are third- and fourth-generation Chicago restaurateurs. Both Jimmy’s maternal grandfather and paternal grandmother owned restaurants — in what Jimmy calls “the twin cities, Berwyn and Cicero” — while his father, Gus, had the Corner Grill at 35th and Western.

Jimmy started working in the family restaurant at age 9, later graduating from the Washburne program and working in kitchens around town before opening Heaven on Seven in the Garland Building in 1980. From the beginning, it was a family restaurant in every sense, with Jimmy and Gus in the kitchen, and brother George and mom working the front.

Jimmy married Annamarie, and kids Jimmy Jr. and Anjelica soon followed.

Starting at age 4, Jimmy Jr. would spend Saturdays with his dad, stopping at the Randolph Street Market for produce, then head to Heaven on Seven, where he would go to “work” washing down table legs, sifting flour, and filling salt and pepper shakers, and then head to Toys R Us to be “paid.”

All through their formative years, both Jimmy and Anjelica helped out at the restaurant. Even at that tender age, Jimmy Jr. wanted to pursue the kitchen life. “I watched my dad work and got to see all of the challenges that came with operating a restaurant,” he says. “I also got to see all of the happiness it brought him.”

Even so, Jimmy says, “I always knew I wouldn’t pressure my kids to come into the ‘family business,’ because if you don’t love, eat, breathe, drink this business, you won’t make it. It’s very unforgiving.”

PHOTO BY JED PHOTOGRAPHY

When it was time for college, Jr. wanted to go to cooking school, ending up at Johnson & Wales in Providence, Rhode Island. From there, he staged in Europe, and then headed to New York, where he worked at Mario Batali’s Esca and Del Posto restaurants. But he always intended to come back home to Chicago, and returned in 2009 to open The Purple Pig, a Mediterranean wine bar in the heart of the Mag Mile — and a massive hit from the word go.

At the 2014 James Beard Awards, when Jimmy Jr.’s name was announced as the Rising Star Chef, Jimmy was one proud papa. “It was amazing. I felt like I had won! It’s just all his hard work. I pointed him in the direction of things I wished I could have done — work in NYC, go cook in Italy. He doesn’t want anything handed to him; he’s got a tremendous work ethic. But he’s also humble and low-key.”

Grandpa Jimmy has no intention of slowing down. After closing his Rush Street location a few years ago, he took a hard look at the original Heaven on Seven and decided to reinvigorate the restaurant — and the brand. In an effort to bring in more millennials, he taught himself the art of social media, especially Instagram, on which he posts daily.

Anjelica, now a makeup artist, still works in the restaurant a few days a week; Annamarie still runs the register. Brother George continues as a partner in Heaven on Seven, and his son has joined in as well.

These days, Junior is married to Marianna, who works in the Purple Pig office a few days a week and does most of their social media. They have two kids — Gianna, 3; and Olivia, 1 — and a thriving restaurant that pulls people like a magnet from the hustle and bustle of Michigan Avenue. “My dad really inspired me, personally and professionally,” says Jimmy Jr. “He taught me to be mentally tough, every single day.”

“If you can do better than your father, you’re in a good place,” says Jimmy. “My dad gave me opportunities, and I took it to a new level. I gave Junior opportunities, and he took it beyond me to new levels. We enjoy spending time together, working together. It gives me energy. He teaches me new techniques, and I share my expertise and knowledge of the industry. I love it more now than I ever did.”

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THE MORTONS Siblings Amy and David The late, great Chicago restaurateur Arnie Morton left a big imprint on the city he loved. Of course, there is his signature restaurant chain, Morton’s The Steakhouse (now grown to 74 locations worldwide), and Taste of Chicago, the megaevent he first brainstormed and long championed. But his most enduring legacy? His seven children, many grandkids, and the work ethic, creative spirit and gift for hospitality that many of them have inherited.

Peter Morton, the son of his first marriage, is best known as the man behind the Hard Rock Café chain, while Michael Morton, the middle son of Arnie’s second marriage, operates the Morton Group (CRUSH, La Cave Wine & Food Hideaway and La Comida) in Las Vegas.

Closer to home, Amy Morton (Found Kitchen & Social House, The Barn) is the oldest and David Morton (DMK Restaurants, which include DMK Burger Bar, Fish Bar, Ada St., Henry’s, and the newly opened Werewolf Coffee) the youngest child of Arnie and his second wife, Zorine.

Amy remembers heading downtown from their Highland Park home on Saturdays to visit the build-out of Arnie’s. “We would sweep out the space after the week of construction,” she remembers. “I loved the sound of gravel under his shoes.”

Their father, born in the 1920s, was of a different generation.

“Everything about him was unworldly,” says David. “He always dressed like it was New Year’s Eve, always made people feel great, yet he was also very modest and shy.”

In terms of working for their father, David thinks that while he might have logged the least time working for his father (although his first restaurant job was at Taste of Chicago), extensive time was spent with Arnie while he was developing restaurants, attending concept development and design meetings. Conversely, Amy worked in the restaurants for years, from her first gig as “crêpe girl” at Arnie’s North in Highland Park to waiting tables and managing other properties.

She was director of recruitment and training for six of her dad’s restaurants when she left in 1989 to open Mirador, her own place in Old Town. She closed it in 1993 and took 10 years off to raise her three daughters with husband Neal Levin before starting a new restaurant concept in Evanston.

David, a serial entrepreneur, started his first business while still studying economics at University of Wisconsin. His

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holdings now include DMK Restaurants, his restaurant business with partner Michael Kornick; 2 to 5 Design, an interior design firm where he partners with wife Jodi; and a real estate investment company. Amy owns Evanston’s popular Found Kitchen & Social House and The Barn, a “modern meaterie” that is an homage to her beloved father.

A life-size black-and-white photo of young Arnie on a pony (circa 1930) adorns the wall of the bar.

“My dad was incredible. I learned so much from him,” she says. “No one could work a room like my dad. He had an idea a minute. I think I’m like him in those ways.” David remembers his father’s strong work ethic and tries to model that, along with Arnie’s “passion for creativity, structuring businesses the right way, giving back to your community and treating people as you would like to be treated.” Both Amy and David give back significantly to their Evanston and Chicago communities, both personally and professionally.

Looking toward the future of the Morton family, David is optimistic. “I hope I’ve taught [my kids] the value of a great work ethic, which I learned from my father,” says David.

“They can follow those footsteps into any field and enjoy success. To me, it’s all about happiness and having the freedom to create.”

Read more at MAKEITBETTER.NET/DINING

PHOTO BY RUBY RAE LEVIN

Both Amy and David have strong recollections of going to work with their father. “I spent countless hours in my father’s restaurants with him,” says David. “I have memories of every facet — from him pitching landlords on new concepts, to attending construction meetings, to joining him on table visits while he visited with regulars.”

I M AG I N E T H E P O S S I B I L I T I E S .

exquisite cuisine ² impeccable service ² extraordinary creativity ² since 1967 424 north wood street | chicago, illinois 60622 | 312.829.3663 | georgejewell.com

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SPOILT FOR CHOICE:

SOMETHING FOR EVERY TASTE AT NAVY PIER B Y DAV I D H A M M O N D

Chicago’s Navy Pier is the city’s largest tourist attraction, so it hosts many different kinds of people with many different tastes. To satisfy those tastes, the Pier has food-to-go, food to enjoy in a casual atmosphere, and food that’s best appreciated in more refined surroundings.

Goddess and the Baker “Dessert all Day” is the inviting mantra of this higher-quality spot for baked goods, including scones, seasonal breads and the divine Goddess Granola Bars. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are available, as are wine and beer. Craft coffees can be prepared pour-over, drip, French press or Nitro Cold Brew (infused with nitrogen for extra creaminess — without dairy!).

America’s Dog The hot dog is quintessential American street food. In Chicago, there’s a lot of hometown pride riding on this simple sausage dressed with mustard, relish, onion, tomato, sport peppers, pickle and celery salt. Have your American Dog Chicago-style or in about 10 other ways (this wiener is nothing if not versatile). This casual stand has been made famous on the Food Network, The Travel Channel, NBC Nightly News, ABC and CBS. Frankie’s by the Slice As the name implies, this is a grab-and-go place where you can scarf a slice while moving on — or down a whole personal pizza (you may want to sit to eat that). Also offering hot sandwiches and frozen lemonade (a Chicago standby), Frankie’s spin on the classic Neapolitan crust is worthy, and Frankie’s pizza proves that eating something other than deep dish will not get you run out of town.

YOU’LL WANT TO SIT DOWN FOR THIS: CASUAL RESTAURANTS If you walk to the end of the Pier and back, your Fitbit will tell you you’ve gone more than a mile. You don’t have to keep moving, of course, and at some point you may want to sit down (read: collapse). Many of the sit-down restaurants at the Pier are suitable for casual meals, some with table service; here are a few of the best.

Harry Caray’s Tavern “Elevated pub food” is what they serve at this outpost of one of Chicago’s most popular sports and steak bars, with a massive collection of sports memorabilia and a family-friendly menu.

When the weather’s nice, you can sit on the patio, and although this is a restaurant and not a stand, you’ll be comfortable whether you’re in a suit or shorts. Holy cow! (Do make sure you exclaim that Harry Caray-ism at least once in this restaurant.)

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Big City Chicken It’s all about the bird at Big City Chicken, where they prepare it for you by the piece or in a sandwich. Operated by Chicago’s Lettuce Entertain You team, this unpretentious chicken joint has been hailed by the Chicago Tribune as one of the best restaurants on the Pier and one of the best chicken places in the city. It’s only available fried, but hey, you’re probably on vacation, right? Live a little.

Billy Goat Tavern Though the menu at this location has expanded significantly beyond the cheeseburger-and-Pepsi-only combo made legend on Saturday Night Live, let’s face it: You’re probably going to order the cheeseburger. (See if you can avoid saying "Cheezeborger, cheezeborger." You can’t!) This sprawling outpost of the original retains a touch of the gruff Chicago attitude made legendary at the much tinier first location, founded in 1934.

PUT YOUR FANCY PANTS RIGHT HERE: FINER DINING Though the Pier is definitely geared to visitors coming to Chicago to relax, there are several places designed for finer dining. No jacket required, of course, but expect a higher level of service, perhaps more thoughtful preparations … and even silverware (!).

DMK Burger Bar/Fish Bar Nominated for five consecutive years as James Beard Best Chef/ Midwest, Michael Kornick runs a number of restaurants around Chicagoland. Kornick brings to the Pier “eclectic gourmet burgers” that showcase the chef’s fine-dining creativity as well as a more seafood-centric selection. French fries are some of the best around, and the shakes, if you like, can go “boozy.”

Tiny Tavern The Pier’s only crafted cocktail destination, Tiny Tavern also has a full menu of bites and sandwiches, as well as braised short ribs and mushroom risotto. Low lights and comfortable banquettes make this the place to go to have a few drinks and get away from the madding crowds.

Riva Crab House With expansive windows allowing dramatic views of Lake Michigan, Riva is a sophisticated place to stop for seafood as well as meat-centric dishes. Chef Luigi Garcia is schooled in traditional techniques while keeping up with culinary trends and innovations. And if you come to the Pier to catch a Shakespeare play, there are prix fixe and other pre-play specials.

For more information visit NAVYPIER.COM

PHOTOS COURTESY OF NAVY PIER

MOVING YOUR FEASTS: FOOD ON THE GO Unless you’re going to the Pier to attend a play at the magnificent Chicago Shakespeare Theater, you probably plan to walk around, feel the cool lake breezes, enjoy the panoramic vistas of Chicago … and eat. Definitely eat. Here are some options for those who come to the Pier intending to get something quick and then keep moving while they nosh.

#DIN I NI N GING #D

DMK Burger Bar

Tiny Tavern

Harry Caray's Tavern

Riva Crab House

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Angelic Organics

FRESH-GROWN CONVENIENCE: THE BEST CSA BOXES

BY JULIE CHERNOFF

Ah, summer … it’s that magic time when orchards and gardens are full-to-bursting with ripe fruits and vegetables, soon to be found in the bounteous displays at your local farmers market or roadside farm stand. Both offer great ways to show your support for independent farmers, ranchers and dairies.

If it’s important to you to know and support your growers, CSA boxes are absolutely worth looking into. Drop-off and delivery options vary, as do price and share size. Here are some great choices. (Be sure to check the websites for the most up-to-date availability and pricing information.)

But have you ever considered a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) share box? Farmers make a set number of “shares” available to the buying public, and in return, the consumer is guaranteed a box of delicious vegetables, fruits and other farm products at regular intervals during the growing season. The boxes are seasonal and filled with all sorts of produce that you might not purchase on your own. It’s the original subscription box!

ANGELIC ORGANICS An organic, bio-dynamic farm located in Caledonia, Illinois, Angelic Organics has been serving Chicago-area CSA customers for the past 25 years. Their delivery season starts in early June and runs through late October; they also offer an extended season share, which runs to mid-November. Both fruit and vegetable shares are available. They offer more than 40 pickup locations throughout Chicagoland.

CSAs also guarantee an early source of income for the farm because they are purchased at the start of the growing season; this helps the farmers purchase supplies and equipment.

It’s a win-win for all. As a bonus, CSA members often receive newsletters and invitations for farm visits and events, especially popular for younger family members.

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Pricing: Full Vegetable Share (20 weeks) is $740; Half Vegetable Share (10 weeks, every other week) is $400; Fruit Share (10 weeks, every other week) is $500. angelicorganics.com KINGS HILL FARM You’ll find this certified organic vegetable farm in the gorgeous

PHOTO COURTESY OF ANGELIC ORGANICS

Does your mouth water just thinking about the abundant summer produce the season has in store? If you strive to eat local, seasonal, farm-fresh food whenever it’s available, CSA share boxes can provide you with a great way to get top-quality, straight-from-the-producer fruits, vegetables, meat and dairy.

#DINING

Three Sisters Garden

SLAGEL FARM If you are looking for interesting and varied restaurant-quality meat, this is the CSA for you. Raising livestock for many generations, the Slagels have made a name for themselves with their wholesome, USDA-inspected, naturally processed meats, including chicken, goat, beef, pork and lamb. Pickup for their monthly baskets is on the second Wednesday of the month at either Doves Luncheonette in Bucktown or Blue Frog Local 22 in River North. You’ll get five or six different items valued at $60, plus a $5 fee to the pickup location.

This CSA is available year-round.

Pricing: $65 per month. slagelfamilyfarm.com Farmbox Direct

rolling hills just south of Mineral Point, Wisconsin. It’s an area untouched by the glaciers, and the land is rich and fertile.

June through mid-October pickups are available at many Chicago-area locations on Thursdays, including the AON Building, Oak Park and Glencoe.

FARMBOX DIRECT PHOTO BY ELIZABETH TENWOLDE

Pricing: Large Share (20 weeks) is $615; Small Share (20 weeks) is $400; refer to the website for quantities. kingshillfarm.com NICHOLS FARM & ORCHARD The Nichols family has been operating their certified organic sustainable family farm in Marengo, Illinois, for nearly 40 years. You’ll find them at many area farmers markets, including Evanston and the Green City Market. As a Nichols CSA member, you’ll also get a 20 percent discount at all of their market stands during the growing season. They will also pro-rate your share if you join after the start of the season. Pickups (June–October) are available at numerous sites throughout Chicagoland, including Evanston, Highland Park, Barrington and Lake Bluff as well as the city. Home delivery available for $12/week.

Pricing: Summer Fruit & Vegetable Share (22 weeks) is $880; Half Fruit & Vegetable Share (11 weeks, every other week) is $440. Fall Share also available; refer to website for quantities. nicholsfarm.com

TOMATO MOUNTAIN FARM Direct to you from Brooklyn … Wisconsin, owner Chris Covelli produces quality, certified organic produce with a focus on tomatoes. They make and bottle their own fresh salsas, preserves, Bloody Mary mix, pasta sauce and soups.

Shares are available on a sustaining or season-to-season basis; the delivery season is 42 weeks. Fresh farm egg add-on available; home delivery.

Pricing: Shares priced by season or full year; Solo Share, Small Share, Medium Share and Large Share available; check website for greater detail. tomatomountain.com A different idea: While not a CSA, this is another option that would make a thoughtful gift for an out-of-town family member or friend who lacks easy access to fresh produce, and doesn’t have the option of a local CSA share.

FARMBOX DIRECT Farmbox Direct is a national door-to-door service that sources whatever is seasonal and fresh from organic farms around the country. It’s available year-round, and can be ordered one box at a time. Choose between three different seasonal box sizes, which can be customized. Ships via FedEx PeriShip with biodegradable insulation and ice packs.

Prices range from $38 for the All-Natural Small Box to $64 for the Only Organic Large Box. Juicing Boxes available for $51. farmboxdirect.com Read more at MAKEITBETTER.NET/DINING M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 7

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The Publican

LET’S DO BRUNCH! 12 BRUNCH SPOTS WE’RE LOVING RIGHT NOW

BY JULIE CHERNOFF

Actually, to be honest, every woman’s — and every man’s — thoughts turn to brunch, each weekend on the regular.

Basically, I’m telling you that brunch is essential to modern civilization. Because life is simply better when you’re in a sun-filled room with people you love (or at least tolerate), your cup is refilled promptly with good, strong coffee, and a stack of tender pancakes, dripping with melted butter and real maple syrup, is in front of you, with maybe a side of Nueske’s superior bacon, extra crispy. Am I right?

Here are some of our current favorites.

BLUE DOOR KITCHEN AND GARDEN Celebrity chef Art Smith revisits his own Table 52 space with a new farm-to-table concept while maintaining his Southern accent. Opt for the Southern Benedict ($17) with shrimp, andouille sausage, stewed veggies and hollandaise, or the excellent BDK Omelet ($14) with bacon, Hook’s cheddar and kale. But whatever God-forsaken diet you’re on, make sure someone at the table gets the Fried Chicken & Waffles ($22) with rosemary-maple syrup — and share. 52 W. Elm St., Chicago, 312-573-4000, bluedoorkitchenchicago.com CINDY’S Dining in a group for brunch? Don’t mind family style? Want a kick-ass view any time of year? Cindy’s ticks each box. Grab a craft brunch cocktail and order up a storm: the Biscuit Board ($15/30), complete with hams, jams and gravy; seasonal Cast Iron Quiche ($34) for a crowd; spicy Israeli Shakshuka ($30) with eggs and fried chickpeas; or a Lox & Bagels platter 6 2 M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 7

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($32) for the traditionalists. Don’t panic — for those who can’t share nicely, there are individual items as well. Chicago Athletic Association, 12 S. Michigan Ave., Chicago, 312-792-3502, cindysrooftop.com CODA DI VOLPE This Italian delight in the Lakeview neighborhood will seduce you with Risotto “Oatmeal” ($12), a warm rice porridge with crispy oats, roasted fruit in season, and caramelized honey milk, or perhaps the decadent Bombolini ($9), Italian donuts to be eaten with candied orange syrup, chocolate sauce and concord grape jam. Peppery baked Eggs in Purgatory ($14), served with polenta cake and fennel sausage, are simply perfetto with a Classic Bellini ($10) or a double espresso.

3335 Southport Ave., Chicago, 773-687-8568, cdvolpe.com DUCK INN Head south to Bridgeport, people. Of course, homage should be paid to the restaurant’s namesake, so the Duck Confit Hash ($15) with its chunks of roasted sweet potato, smooth Calabrian Hollandaise and softly scrambled eggs, is a must. For vegetarians, the Roasted Mushrooms ($14) with green garlic, red grits and a perfect golden-yolked duck egg — topped with porcini powderdusted popcorn — is just the thing. And did I mention the Fried Cheese Curds ($8)? Not for the cholesterol-phobic, obviously.

2701 S. Eleanor, Chicago, 312-724-8811, theduckinnchicago.com EDEN An on-site urban greenhouse that furnishes much of their produce is just one of many features that sets this new farWest Loop resto apart. Standouts include Quinoa Cakes ($13) with lemon, almond and buttermilk ricotta and a

PHOTO BY AYSEGUL D. SANFORD

In spring, a young woman’s fancy turns to brunch.

#DINING

Cindy’s

Imperial Lamian

TOP LEFT PHOTO BY ANTHONY TAHLIER ; TOP RIGHT PHOTO BY NEIL BURGER; BOTTOM RIGHT PHOTO BY KERRI SHERMAN

caramelized pineapple syrup, and the decadent Grilled Skirt Steak & Eggs ($18) topped with Calabrian salsa verde and served with roasted fingerling potatoes and a soft-cooked egg.

1748 W. Lake St., Chicago, 312-366-2294, edeninchicago.com GROWLING RABBIT A bigger and better version of this Edgewater favorite is now open, and brunch can be had Tuesday – Sunday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. There’s a lot to love on this huge menu, but standouts include the Vegan Skillet ($9.99) made with potatoes, tofu, sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, onions and red peppers; the “Bomb Mi” sandwich ($11.50), with hoisin-glazed shredded pork, jalapeños, pickled daikon and carrots, cilantro, sriracha and a fried egg on a pretzel bun; and the Biscuits and Gravy ($9.35), which can be had with house-made pork sausage or a vegan patty. Lots of options for every palate. 5938 N. Broadway, Chicago, 773-654-1444, thegrowlingrabbit.com IMPERIAL LAMIAN This is not your average River North drunken brunch. Start with a light Wok-Fried Prawn Salad ($15) with sprightly notes provided by lemongrass, pomelo, mango and Thai chili sauce, then move on to the Wagyu Oxtail XO Fried Rice ($16) with asparagus and egg. The hand-pulled noodles (la mian) are both brunch theater and toothsome, delicious treat; I love the Minced Pork ($14) version in a spicy pork broth with black garlic, truffle oil and shiitake and wood ear mushrooms. It’s an umami bomb. 6 W. Hubbard St., Chicago, 312-595-9440, imperial-lamian.com MAD SOCIAL The globally inspired menu at this mad popular West Loop spot shines at brunch with Havarti Mac & Cheese ($13), extra cheesy and filled with sweet corn, wild mushrooms and crispy Brussels sprouts under a butter-crumb crust. The Koreaninspired Short Rib Benedict ($19) features braised short ribs, Brussels sprout kimchi and togarishi hollandaise on a pretzel bun. The cool kids are hanging out here without you. Isn’t it time to fix that? 1140 W. Madison St., Chicago, 312-243-2097, madsocialchicago.com MARKET HOUSE ON THE SQUARE Lake Forest is a “classics” kind of town, and you’ll find them here, prepared beautifully and with enough of a spin to keep things interesting, like the Lemon Ricotta Pancakes ($12), light and fluffy, topped with wild black raspberry compote,

Market House

lemon curd and maple syrup. The standard hash is updated with Amish Chicken ($12), the Benedict with smoked salmon ($15). All this, plus Avocado Toast ($18), gilded with a lovely crab salad? This could be habit forming. 655 Forest Ave., Lake Forest, 847-234-8800, themarkethouse.com PECKISH PIG If your heart can take it, you’ll find a Full English Breakfast ($12) here, consisting of two eggs, English bacon, sausage, black pudding, tomatoes, mushrooms, baked beans and fried bread. For the slightly more health conscious, opt for the classic Kedgeree ($9), a mild Indian curry rice with smoked fish, chopped egg and peas, or the House-Made Scone ($5) with Irish Kerrygold butter, jam, whipped cream and fresh strawberries. Happily, no Brexit thus far in Evanston.

623 Howard St., Evanston, 847-491-6778, thepeckishpig.com PRESIDIO Named for one of San Francisco’s toniest neighborhoods, this Bucktown hideaway likes to mix it up, from killer Huevos Rancheros ($14) made with confit chicken, black beans, salsa verde, cabbage slaw, tortilla and egg, to Thai Shrimp & Grits ($14) in a spicy coconut curry sauce. The Breakfast Burrata ($4) side dish is a must, as are the delectable craft cocktails, like the Love & Haight ($10) with gin, amaro and fresh berry juice. Peace, man. 1749 N. Damen Ave., Chicago, 773-697-3315, presidiochicago.com THE PUBLICAN There will be pig. That’s a given. But there’s also the Peekytoe Crab Scramble ($14) with crème fraîche, espelette pepper, dill and pickled shallots, served with toast; soul-warming Sorrel Spätzle ($13) tossed with celery root, sour cream and a soft egg; and decadent Lemon Pound Cake ($9) with ricotta, citrus curd and ginger. Plus, lots of perfectly brewed Intelligentsia coffee, so life is good. 837 W. Fulton Market, Chicago, 312-733-9555, thepublicanrestaurant For more information on these restaurants, visit MAKEITBETTER.NET/BRUNCH2017 M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 7

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Eataly

GLOBAL GROCERIES CHICAGO’S BEST INTERNATIONAL FOOD MARKETS

BY MADDIE LAKIND

EATALY (Italian) Ever since its arrival in Chicago back in 2013, Mario Batali and Joe Bastianich’s Eataly has been enticing locals and tourists alike with its expansive collection of Italian specialties. One could very easily spend an entire day at this food mecca, dining in the food court; roaming through aisles of unique artisanal items and Italian staples, like pasta in every shape under the sun from producers ranging from the familiar Barilla to those rarely seen outside Italy; and taking classes in the art of baking pizza, wine tasting or preparing mozzarella from scratch. As if all of that weren’t enough, there is an all-Nutella counter that only serves sweet treats featuring everybody’s favorite chocolate-hazelnut spread. 43 E. Ohio St., Chicago, 312-521-8700

PATEL BROTHERS (Indian) Anybody who has ever visited Devon Street can attest to its seemingly endless array of vibrant restaurants and ethnic markets. But perhaps no grocery store has garnered more of a beloved following than Patel Brothers. Founded in 1974, this family-run spot, specializing in hard-to-find Indian ingredients, has expanded from the original Devon Street location into a thriving franchise with 52 stores nationwide. The original location is still a must-visit for anybody with an interest in exploring the flavors of India. With brimming shelves of chutneys, curries, pickles, spices, bulk grains, teas and exotic fruits and vegetables, all at incredibly reasonable prices, Patel Brothers is an Indianfood-lovers paradise. 2610 W. Devon Ave., Chicago, 773-262-7777

LATINICITY (Latin American, Spanish and Portuguese) There aren’t many places where you can find the flavors of Latin America, Spain and Portugal all under one roof, but Latinicity is one such spot. Chef Richard Sandoval’s majestic Latin Food Hall houses an impressive collection of 10 eateries, bars and markets that aims to celebrate the diverse street food cultures of the aforementioned locales. In the span of a visit, diners can experience everything from Peruvian ceviche to Brazilian mixed grill, Mexican tortas and tacos as well as a bountiful beverage menu of Latin cocktails, beers and wines. Come hungry, bring friends and let your taste buds guide the way through this Latin food wonderland. 108 N. State St., Chicago, 312-795-4444

JOONG BOO (Korean) Most of you have probably passed the prominent green Joong Boo sign (just past Kimball off I-94) at some point on your morning commute. For those of you who have yet to pull off the road and pay a visit, it's time to change that. This Koreancentric market is a place to get lost in, with retail items for days. In addition to pantry items like noodles and rice, Joong Boo carries a wide array of internationally sourced meat cuts and seafood, as well as farm-grown produce and too many types of sake to count. Don’t forget to stop by the in-store snack corner, especially Wang Mandoo (which translates to King Dumpling) for a plate of house-made pork or black rice and red- bean dumplings. 3333 N. Kimball Ave., Chicago, 773-478-5566

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PHOTO COURTESY OF EATALY

Like any great food city, Chicago’s culinary vibrancy is rooted in an eclectic and dynamic range of food offerings inspired by cultures around the globe. Our city’s Über-inventive chefs take advantage of the many international grocery stores both in the city proper and Northern suburbs — and so should you. To take a trip around the world without breaking the bank — or leaving the state for that matter — ­ be sure to add some or all of these notable spots to your list.

#DINING

Joong Boo Market

Gene's Sausage Shop Super H Mart

xx

Kaufman's

PHOTOS BY MADDIE LAKIND

SUPER H MART (Asian) Are you one of those people that could roam the aisles of the grocery store for hours on end? If yes, than Super H Mart in Niles must be on your radar. Situated right next to the famed King Spa, Super H Mart is the ultimate Asian grocery store, with products sourced from all around the continent. Think endless varieties of noodles, rice, chili pastes, seasonings and possibly the largest kimchi selection you’ve ever encountered.

After shopping, take a load off in the full-service food court and treat yourself to seafood pancake or a steaming bowl of pho.

Your feet and your stomach will thank you. Civic Center Plaza, 801 Civic Center Drive, Niles, 847-581-1212 GENE’S SAUSAGE SHOP AND DELICATESSEN (German/European) Tucked away in the middle of Lincoln Square, Gene’s Sausage Shop and Delicatessen will transport you back to a simpler time. This European sausage market and deli prepares more than 40 different types of sausage in-house plus another 30 varieties of smoked meats. Gene’s also houses an entire Euro-centric grocery collection, with hard-to-find international products as well as cheeses, fresh produce and a full liquor section. The shop has its very own rooftop bar and garden where you can try some of these tasty creations on site.

4750 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago, 773-728-7243

MIDDLE EASTERN BAKERY (Middle Eastern) Andersonville’s Middle Eastern Bakery, situated at the intersection of Foster and Clark, epitomizes the corner store feel. While much smaller than many of its counterparts on this list, what Middle Eastern Bakery lacks in size, it more than makes up for in incredible product selection. Delicacies here range from imported cheeses and olives to bulk dry goods, sweets like Baklava and Turkish Delight, and a crazy impressive spice collection. Pita is also baked daily in all shapes and sizes and serves as the perfect accompaniment to the rest of your grocery treasures. As if all of this weren’t enough, the store also runs a neighboring café where you can indulge in some of the best falafel sandwiches, shawarma and stuffed grape leaves around.

1512 W. Foster Ave., Chicago, 773-561-2224 KAUFMAN’S (Jewish/Eastern European) No trip to Skokie is complete without a visit to the famed Kaufman’s Delicatessen. Half restaurant, half grocery store, Kaufman’s churns out an astounding array of traditional Jewish and Eastern European fare fit for any meal of the day. In-house specialties include smoked fish, baked goods, cold cuts (including pastrami, corned beef, tongue and brisket), and comforting meals to-go like chicken paprikash, stuffed cabbage, goulash, kugel and blintzes. Packaged grocery items are also in abundance and feature favorites like dill pickles, classic sodas and old-timey candies. Like so many of the fellow spots on this list, patrons can indulge their appetites in-house and choose from a staggering menu of deli sandwiches, soups, sides and desserts. 4905 W. Dempster St., Skokie, 847-677-6190.

Read more at MAKEITBETTER.NET/DINING

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Found Kitchen & Social House

THE BEST NEW BURGERS IN CHICAGOLAND

BY JULIE CHERNOFF

MEATY BURGERS Boltwood Boltwood Burger ($14) Super juicy, grilled just right and topped with cheddar, lettuce, onion, and house sauce, this beefy beauty comes with the garlic schmaltz crispy potatoes, and as God is my witness, there will be calories. Damn you, Chef Brian Huston! 804 Davis St., Evanston, 847-859-2880 Busy Burger Stuffed Burger ($8.45) This enormous burger — available in either beef or turkey — is replication worthy. It’s a half-pound of all-natural beef stuffed with smoked bacon, BBQ sauce and Wisconsin cheddar, grilled and topped with lettuce, tomato, onion, dill pickles and spicy Busy sauce on a butter-toasted bun. Bonus points for the hand-battered onion rings and the lettuce-wrap option. 1120 W. Taylor St., Chicago, 312-226-7760, eatbusyburgerchicago.com 66

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Chop Shop Butcher’s Burger ($15) The beef here could not possibly be fresher; it’s ground daily by the in-house butcher, grilled and served on a just-right bun with aged cheddar, charred red onions, smoky bacon and Chop Shop sauce. Excellent skinny fries, too (and if you are so inclined, they also do a spicy Sriracha Chicken burger). 2033 W. North Ave., Chicago, 773-537-4440, chopshopchi.com Earl’s Lincoln Park Bacon Cheddar Burger ($14.75) This Canadian import sure understands what Americans love. Their version of our national obsession comes with cured bacon, aged cheddar, vine-ripened tomatoes, fresh onion, pickles, mayo and mustard piled high on a freshly baked brioche bun. Now if only it came with Justin Trudeau on the side … 1538 N. Clybourn Ave., Chicago, 312-929-3952, earls.ca

PHOTO BY GALDONES PHOTOGRAPHY

Chicago has long been home to some phenomenal burgers (hello, Edzo’s, Kuma’s, DMK, Bop ‘n Grill, Au Cheval, et al.), but with such a dynamic food scene, it’s no surprise that newcomers also worthy of our attention are regularly churned out. Here are the new burgers around Chicago (including some killer turkey, lamb, and veggie burgers) that shouldn’t be missed.

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Good Stuff Eatery

Rockit Bar & Grill

PHOTOS COURTESY OF EACH RESTAURANT

Eight Bar Downstairs Burger ($14) Downstairs from where, you might ask? The happy answer: sister restaurant Maple & Ash, and let me tell you, they know their meat. So this is a seriously beefy burger, topped with cheddar cheese, pickles, red onion and Dijonnaise. Bring on the Moscow Mule! 8 W. Maple St., Chicago, 312-944-8888, eightbarchicago.com

Busy Burger

special sauce, dill pickle and Bibb lettuce, and an ice-cold craft martini with which to wash it down. 145 N. Dearborn St., Chicago, 312-384-1242, thedearborntavern.com

Found Kitchen & Social House Beef & Mushroom Burger ($14) Is it the ground mushrooms in chef Nicole Pederson’s Slagel beef burger that make it so effusively juicy? Add 12-hour onions, Dijonnaise and melty fontina, put it on a pillowy brioche bun, and you have a showstopper. Lunch menu only. 1631 Chicago Ave., Evanston, 847-868-8945, foundkitchen.com

TURKEY BURGERS Good Stuff Eatery Michelle Melt ($6.98) Michelle Obama inspired a lot of healthy eating as part of her eight-year tenure in the White House; Top Chef fave and Good Stuff owner Spike Mendelsohn honors her with this swoon-worthy free-range turkey burger topped with caramelized onions, melted Swiss cheese, tomato, lettuce and “Southlawn Herb Garden Mayo” on a whole-wheat bun that will fill you up, but hopefully not out!

22 S. Wabash Ave., Chicago, 312-854-3027, goodstuffeatery.com

Holt’s House Burger ($11.95) This umami explosion is topped with wine-marinated, garlicky sautéed mushrooms and cheddar cheese and served on a sturdy pretzel bun. Comes with choice of superb skinny hand-cut fries, house salad or soup.

Who are you kidding? You know you want those fries. 43 S. Prospect Ave., Park Ridge, 847-720-4484, holtsparkridge.com

Just Turkey Jerk Burger ($5.50) Gobble gobble. That’s all you’ll find here, whether it be ribs, links or burgers; this place is as advertised.

The butter-crusted Jerk patty is infused with Jamaican herbs and spices; top it with BBQ sauce, lettuce, pickles and onions, all on a whole-wheat bun. 2430 Main St., Evanston, 847-859-6331; 1234 N. Halsted, Chicago, 312-337-3600, originaljustturkey.com

Publican Anker Pub Burger ($11.50) It may just be the best new burger in Chicago. Paul Kahan’s Wicker Park darling takes Slagel Family Farms beef, griddles it, slaps it on a soft brioche bun and tops it with caramelized onion, American cheese and mildly spicy special sauce. Lord, have mercy. 1576 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago, 773-904-1121, publicananker.com

VEGGIE BURGER The Amazing Kale Burger Ben Burger ($7) Kale is a major ingredient (along with mushrooms, potatoes, black beans and chick-pea flour) in this scrumptious vegan burger. They started at the Evanston Farmers Market but have added a cute little lunch counter serving these beauties on house-made whole-wheat buns.

The Ben is my fave; it’s topped with garlic mushrooms and herbed sunflower-seed cheese. 741 Howard St., Evanston, 847-660-4330, amazingkaleburger.com

Rockit Bar & Grill Lamb Burger ($16) Rockit is in the business of bar food, and they make a fine beef burger, but this little lamby from their new Mediterranean-themed offerings is what I’ll return for.

Topped with fried saganaki cheese (opa!), tzatziki sauce and lettuce on an onion bun, it made me yearn for the Aegean. 22 W. Hubbard St., Chicago, 312-645-6000, rockitbarandgrill.com The Dearborn The Dearborn Burger ($16) There’s no better pre-Goodman Theatre snack than this über-juicy, grilled wagyu-grind burger on a pillowy brioche bun topped with Wisconsin cheddar,

Bad Hunter Bad Hunter Burger ($15) This is a very meat-reminiscent, nicely textured black-bean burger on a brioche bun with cheddar, tomato jam, onion and mustard aioli. But they aren’t doctrinaire, so if you feel the urge to add bacon ($4), go for it. No one will judge.

802 W. Randolph St., Chicago, 312-265-1745, badhunter.com Check out more reviews online at MAKEITBETTER.NET/DINING M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 7

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#RECIPE

GET GRILLING! MIDDLE EASTERN LAMB BURGERS WITH GREEK YOGURT FETA SAUCE

BY MADDIE LAKIND

Summer in Chicago means it’s time to pull off that grill tarp and whip up a batch of homemade burgers.

But, since grilled meats can contain cancer-causing carcinogens, make sure you follow these healthy grilling tips to minimize your exposure.

Before you grab that charcoal and lighter fluid, consider this: According to Cancer Treatment Centers of America (CTCA), cooking foods — specifically meats — at high temperatures on a grill can actually lead to the release of potentially harmful carcinogens known as heterocyclic amines (HCAs). In order to help reduce the release of said carcinogens, I’ve created a flavorful and vibrant burger recipe that highlights many of CTCA’s tips for healthy grilling.

1 Use lean meat. Meats with higher fat content tend to lead to a higher carcinogen concentration when cooked than leaner cuts of meat. This relates to a different type of carcinogen called polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, or PAHs, which are released when fat drippings come into contact with fire. Ergo, less fat, less likelihood of dripping, less carcinogens released. In place of a traditionally rich ground beef burger, opt for lean ground lamb, which delivers substantial flavor and body but with much less fat.

2 Incorporate herbs and spices into your burger. Meat mixtures containing fresh herbs and ground spices have been shown to help lower their overall carcinogen content. This is most likely due to their high concentration of antioxidants, which act as counter agents to HCAs. 3 Marinate, marinate, marinate. Instead of going right from mixing your burgers to grilling, let the combined mixture marinate in the fridge for a few hours. This resting period allows the meat mixture to absorb the antioxidants present in the herbs and spices, helping to counter the release of HCAs.

PHOTO BY MADDIE LAKIND

4 Cover your grill with punctured tinned foil before cooking your burger. This may seem like an odd step in the grilling process, but it can actually make a world of difference in terms of limiting carcinogens. The higher the heat on your grill, the higher likelihood of PAHs being released. By covering your grill grate in tinned foil, the heat becomes more diffused and limits the threat of splatter.

5 Avoid the char. By keeping your grill at medium rather than

high flame, you limit charring and splatter, which will further help keep PAHs at bay.

6 Cook to rare or medium rare. Well-done meats have significantly higher levels of HCAs than medium-rare meats.

Lamb is best eaten rare or medium rare already so it’s a win-win!

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BURGER

11/2 pounds ground lamb 2 cloves garlic, minced 1 tablespoon fresh mint, finely chopped 1 tablespoon ground coriander 2 teaspoons ground cumin 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper A pinch of cinnamon 1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1 1/2 tablespoons olive oil Greek Yogurt-Feta Sauce (see recipe below) 6 burger buns 1 red onion, thinly sliced 1 tomato, thinly sliced Lettuce leaves, washed Mix lamb, spices and herbs together in a bowl until just combined. Form into 6 even-sized patties and place in the refrigerator. Let marinate for at least 2 hours.

Light your charcoal grill according to your preference.

Cover the grates of the grill with a layer of punctured tinned foil to prevent grease splatter. Cook the burgers on top of the tinned foil for 4-5 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature of the burger reaches 130 degrees for rare and 140 degrees for medium rare. Let rest for at least 10 minutes before eating.

Start building the burger by placing the sliced tomatoes atop the bottom half of the bun. Place the burger on top of the tomatoes and then layer on the red onion and lettuce. Spread two tablespoons of Greek yogurt sauce on the top half of the bun, sandwich the whole thing together and enjoy!

GREEK YOGURT FETA SAUCE

1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt 2 tablespoons feta cheese, crumbled 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice 1 tablespoon fresh dill, finely chopped Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste Mix all ingredients together in a bowl until combined.

Season to taste with salt and pepper. Chill until ready to use.

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Goose Island Beer Co.

BREW MASTERS

CHICAGO’S 9 BEST BREWERIES

BY K ARL KLOCK ARS

With nearly everyone in Chicagoland now no more than a few miles from their nearest brewery or brewpub, fresh, fun, creative brews are easier than ever to enjoy. Pretty much all the breweries in Chicagoland have a beer worth celebrating, but there are a few making a notable variety of truly incredible beers. From city to suburbs, here are some of the best breweries around, in no particular order.

HALF ACRE BEER COMPANY One of the first breweries to kick off the most recent wave of Chicago beer production, Half Acre is still one of the best. They started selling six-packs of their lager in 2007, and opened their own brewery in Chicago’s Lincoln Square neighborhood in 2009, with a store and taproom following soon after. Finally, in 2015, Half Acre opened a huge new facility a couple miles north so they could produce the massive amounts of beers like Daisy Cutter and Pony Pilsner that Illinois was clamoring for.

One of the greatest beers produced in Chicago today is their Daisy Cutter pale ale, a big, aggressively hoppy and bitter brew that’s still supremely drinkable year-round. However, IPA fans look forward every year to the return of their GoneAway India Pale Ale, literally one of the greatest IPAs in the country (they took silver at 2014’s Great American Beer Fest, beating out hundreds of other entries nationwide, though the beer was named Senita at the time). 4257 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago, halfacrebeer.com 72

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FLOSSMOOR STATION BREWING COMPANY This south-suburban brewpub just off the Metra tracks (and in fact, located in an old train station) is often overlooked in favor of other more mainstream and widely available breweries, which makes it easy to forget that Flossmoor has been making great beers for longer than basically everybody in the state.

Very few operations are ever named Brewpub of the Year at the Great American Beer Festival, but Flossmoor took home that honor in 2006, and that’s just one of the many medals and awards they’ve earned for the hundreds of beers they’ve created over the years. They recently announced they’d be adding a beer garden and a smokehouse soon — more reason to hop on a train and head down. 1035 Sterling Ave., Flossmoor, flossmoorstation.com GOOSE ISLAND BEER CO. Chicago craft-brewing pioneer Goose Island is still one of the top outfits in town, even five years after being purchased

by Anheuser-Busch. It’s impossible to calculate the effect that Goose has had on the city’s beer scene, as many former employees have gone on to start their own breweries. But as a good example of the many different ways a brewery can succeed in beer, Goose is a great test subject. You want an easy drinking summer beer even non-craft drinkers can enjoy? Simple — you want their 312 Urban Wheat. Maybe you’re looking for a food-friendly Belgian-style beer to serve

PHOTO COURTESY OF GOOSE ISLAND BEER CO.

It wasn’t that long ago that the idea of “Chicago beer” started with Old Style and ended with a draft from Goose Island’s brewpub. In the past few years, however, local breweries have been starting up in the city and suburbs at an astounding rate — from just a handful in the late ‘90s to about 200 today, scattered across Illinois.

# D IRNI N I NKG

with dinner? Grab their Sofie or Matilda. Craving something a bit crazy? How about their forthcoming cucumber-lime radler or a coffee pale ale? You want a beer that defined a style and made Chicago synonymous with barrel-aged stouts? Grab a Bourbon County Stout (if you can find one). Goose has still got the goods. 1800 W. Fulton St., Chicago, gooseisland.com METROPOLITAN BREWING Dedicated to truly doing things their own way, Metropolitan is still a happy anomaly of a brewery despite being the first production brewery to open in Chicago in a decade back in 2009. Other Chicago breweries may make all those bigger, hoppier, crazier beers, and that’s fine. Metro does what they do — true-to-style, dialed-in lager beers — extremely well, and we couldn’t (and shouldn’t) ask for anything more. Their dedication to clean, spot-on perfect beers like their Dynamo Copper Lager and Krankshaft Kolsch (a year-round offering but a perfect summer-heat beer) makes them a great brewery, and their devotion to furthering Chicago’s culture of phenomenal craft beer makes them important members of the brewing community. 5121 N. Ravenswood Ave., Chicago, metrobrewing.com OFF COLOR BREWING It’s sort of hard to explain Off Color to people since most casual beer fans wouldn’t recognize many of the styles they create.

Kottbusser? Sahti? Gose? In spite of brewing beers many can’t pronounce, Off Color quickly emerged as a brewery that churns out the wild, weird stuff that makes its brewers happy without worrying about having the hoppiest IPA in all the land.

Their brewers honed their talents while working with Chicago stalwarts like Two Brothers, Goose Island and Metropolitan and those skills show in their fan favorites like Dino S’mores (yes, it tastes like s’mores) and their Apex Predator farmhouse ale, perhaps the perfect brunch beer with its light, creamy, juicy, citrusy beermosa-esque-ness. 3925 W. Dickens Ave., Chicago, offcolorbrewing.com

PHOTOS COURTESY OF EACH BREWERY

PIPEWORKS BREWING COMPANY Imagine the craziest beer you can think of, and Pipeworks has probably made something close to it. Of all the new breweries that opened in the past five to six years, only Pipeworks has earned the title of “Best New Brewery in the World,” bestowed upon them

by RateBeer in early 2013. Since then they’ve blasted out hundreds of different beer recipes like their super-hopped Ninja Vs. Unicorn, their multi-flavored Abduction series of stouts and crazy-creative stuff like beers made to resemble cocktails such as a Dark & Stormy or an Old-Fashioned. Their new line of canned offerings are actually the first beers they’ve chosen to make year-round, and continue the hop-happy focus with brews like the instant classic Lizard King Pale Ale. 3912 W. Mclean Ave., Chicago, pdubs.net REVOLUTION BREWING Now one of the biggest craft breweries in the country, Revolution started in 2010 as a brewpub in the city’s Logan Square neighborhood. Demand for their hophead/socialist beers surged throughout the city prompting the opening soon after of a huge production facility just a short distance north (with one of the coolest taprooms in town). Beers like the Anti-Hero IPA, Bottom Up Wit and Eugene Porter quickly became staples in bars and restaurants across the city, while a rotating variety of specialty beers like their Rosa hibiscus ale and A Little Crazy Belgian-style pale ale became reasons to look forward to the changing seasons. 2323 N. Milwaukee Ave., Chicago revbrew.com

Spiteful Brewing

Revolution Brewing

SPITEFUL BREWING Once one of the smallest breweries in the state, Spiteful started as a nanobrewing operation working from a basement space in Chicago’s Ravenswood neighborhood. They quickly became known more for their aggressive, creative beers as opposed to the relative closet they brewed them in. Spiteful’s beers include the happily hoppy Alley Time Pale Ale and the God Damn Pigeon Porter (which boasts variants that feature ingredients like raspberry and peanut butter). They recently announced they’d be expanding to a new, larger space but that hasn’t taken their eye off the brewing ball — they took home two big medals at the 2015 Festival of Barrel Aged Beer, for their bourbon-barrel-aged barleywine and their spicy, cinnamony barrel-aged Chocolate Caliente Malevolence Russian Imperial Stout. 1815 W. Berteau Ave., Chicago spitefulbrewing.com THREE FLOYDS Just a few minutes from the Illinois border in Munster, Indiana, sits one of the most well-known, polarizing, soughtafter, talked-about (and argued-about) breweries of the past two decades. Three Floyds has helped pioneer what American beer has come to be — extreme flavors, massive amounts of bitter hops and a healthy dose of sharp-edged thrash-metal attitude. It doesn’t get any more Three Floyds-y than their annual Dark Lord Day — the one day you can purchase their now-legendary Russian Imperial Stout — which is now a full-on festival of extremely hard-to-find beer, metal bands, communal beer-geek exuberance and even more beer. 9750 Indiana Parkway, Munster, Indiana, 3floyds.com.

Read more at MAKEITBETTER.NET/DRINK M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 7

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YOU BRING THE COMPANY

We’ll Bring the Food!

10 DAYS OF DELICIOUS DINING • JUNE 2 - JUNE 11

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# T R AV E L

Lake Geneva Cruise Line

LAKE ESCAPE

BY KENDR A THORNTON

Lake Geneva and the surrounding area offer endless opportunities for summertime food, fun and relaxation.

When most people picture summer fun, it likely includes a sandy beach, a boat cruise, dining al fresco and lazy sunny days.

One of the reasons Lake Geneva and the surrounding area is so popular with summer vacationers is because it offers all of the above, and more. With a plethora of indoor and outdoor activities, plus world-class dining and entertainment, this summer paradise, an easy two-hour drive northwest of Chicago, offers lake living at its best.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF LAKE GENEVA

Where to Eat and Drink

Lake Geneva’s dining options are abundant to satisfy all levels and ages of taste buds. The seasonal Lake Geneva Farmer’s Market runs from May 4 to Oct. 26 at Horticultural Hall and is the perfect place to pick up fresh produce, flowers and, of course, Wisconsin cheeses.

A great time to visit is during Lake Geneva Restaurant Week, this year taking place June 2–11, when thousands of residents and visitors take advantage of special fixed-price menus at some of the area’s best restaurants for significant savings. Participating restaurants throughout the area include those set in luxury resorts and the walkable downtown area, overlooking the lake, and everything in between. Visit

visitlakegeneva.com/restaurantweek for a list of participating restaurants, special events and hotel deals.

Sometimes the best moments of summer are spent sipping a cocktail watching the sunset. Some favorite local watering holes are: Pier 290 Pier 290’s menu of handcrafted cocktails made with fresh ingredients ranges from the Pisco Sour (a classic from Peru) to the Whiskey Cider featuring house-made cider and whiskey infused with cinnamon and spices. The house drink, called Happy Ending, is a creation by Bill Gage, thirdgeneration steward of Gage Marine and owner of Pier 290.

This refreshing drink made with vodka, fresh lemon, lime and orange, a dash of bitters, and topped with Squirt is perfect after a day in the sun.

The Hunt Club The Hunt Club’s martinis are a must. Tito’s Cosmopolitan is a friendly pink drink shaken with upscale Tito’s vodka, triple sec, fresh lime juice and a hint of cranberry. The zesty fresh lime juice turns this everyday Cosmo into a fun and flirty version M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 7

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# T R AV E L

just right for party time. The Chocolate Martini is decadent and delish. The vodka and Kahlua mixed drink is laced with Lady Godiva dark chocolate, creating a dessert and drink all in one. Served beautifully with a chocolate-etched starburst design, this is a chocolate lover’s dream.

Ristorante Brissago An awesome spin on a traditional Midwestern favorite, the Wild Cherry Old Fashioned at Ristorante Brissago at Grand Geneva Resort & Spa is a must. The Old Fashioned is made with imported Amarena Fabbri cherries (dark cherries in a heavy syrup) and blood orange bitters combined deftly with Woodford Reserve Bourbon.

The Brute

Sopra Bistro Known for its specialty martinis, Sopra’s The Omen is a must for those seeking to go beyond the traditional vodka or gin martini. The specialty martini is made with Cody Road Bourbon, Amaro Nonino, a splash of simple syrup and lemon juice.

Apothecary Bar Cocktails at the Apothecary Bar at historic Maxwell Mansion 1856 will take you back in time with their creative twists on traditional drinks. Their Tom Collins is the best grown-up lemonade! Made with gin, fresh squeezed lemon juice, simple syrup, club soda, a dash of bittercube cherry bark vanilla bitters, and garnished with a thin slice of lemon, this is a fantastic spring/summer cocktail.

Apothecary Bar

To satisfy your sweet tooth, head to Constant Cravings for mouth-watering fudge and freshly made specialty popcorn, or to Kilwin’s for old-world chocolates and ice cream.

Where to Play

Of course, the nonstop lake fun is the biggest draw for those heading to Lake Geneva and nearby in the summer. Both offer boating options and water sports activities galore. On Lake Geneva, you can rent a speedboat, jet skis, kayaks or standup paddleboards from many watercraft rental businesses including Fontana Paddle Company, Gage Marine, Gordy’s Lakefront Marine, Jerry’s Majestic Marine, Clear Water Outdoor or Marine Bay Boat Rentals. Take a boat tour with Lake Geneva Cruise Line for relaxed sightseeing, dining or to see mail jumpers deliver letters and packages to waterfront homes. On Lake Delavan, the marina at Lake Lawn Resort is a great spot to rent speedboats and other watercraft.

Looking for outdoor fun off the water? Unique to the area is a 26-mile path that winds along the shore of Lake Geneva and passes the beautiful estates built by Chicago notables after the city’s Great Fire in 1871.

Golfers will enjoy the area’s 11 courses offering championship to par-3-level experiences. The Brute, one of two 18-hole courses at Grand Geneva Resort & Spa, features huge rolling greens and 68 bunkers. Majestic Oaks at Lake Lawn Resort is set amid 250 plush, tree-lined acres and is known for its deep sand bunkers and subtle undulations. Geneva National Golf Club features 54 holes of legendary golf designed by Arnold Palmer, Gary Player and Lee Trevino. Beginners, families and kids enjoy a walkable par-3 experience on the Barn Hallow course at Hawk’s View Golf Club.

While the outdoor fun is endless, there is plenty to do indoors as well. Some favorites around the greater Lake Geneva area are: 7 6 M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 7

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The Ridge Hotel

See a magic show at the world’s smallest permanent magic venue devoted to large-scale illusion. The Tristan Crist Magic Theatre seats 50 so you are close to the action.

See Tristan cut a lady in half, and make a real HELICOPTER appear on stage only a few feet away.

Decode clues and solve puzzles at the Lake Geneva Clue Room. The Clue Room has three different escape rooms (Capturing Capone, Cold War Clash — where U.S. and Soviet teams must complete the challenges and prevent Armageddon — and C&NW Railroad Room to prevent a train robbery) for indoor family fun.

Tour Ten Chimneys, the estate lovingly created by Broadway legends Alfred Lunt and Lynn Fontanne. Tours of Ten Chimneys celebrate the one-of-a-kind collection the Lunts amassed during their lifetimes, but also honor the values found in every facet of the Lunts’ lives, both on the stage and in the house they called home for more than half a century.

Explore the Geneva Lake Museum’s Archaic and Potowatomi Indian artifacts, 19th-century brick Main Street featuring historical

residences and nautical vessels, exhibits on historic lakeshore estates, and Frank Lloyd Wright’s Geneva Hotel artifacts and photographs.

Where to Stay

Lake Geneva is full of excellent waterfront and near-water lodging options. Here are some favorites: The Abbey Resort Spa in Fontana is the only full-service resort on the shores of Lake Geneva and boasts a breathtaking setting on 90 acres of beautifully manicured grounds, multiple indoor and outdoor swimming pools, and direct access to the Fontana beach and marina slips. The Ridge Hotel is sleek and edgy with a twist of Wisconsin tradition.

It recently completed a multi-milliondollar contemporary redesign, including a welcoming tech-savvy lobby, new Crafted Americana restaurant and poolside bar plus a sprawling veranda with 12′ fire pit, outdoor lounge and picturesque shoreline views.

The Lake Lawn Resort is nestled along two miles of Lake Delavan’s shoreline and features an 18-hole championship golf course, water sport rentals, outdoor and indoor swimming pools, a fitness center, activity center, live entertainment and more.

Stoneterracebb.com |1622 Forest Pl. | Evanston | 847.859.2198

Grand Geneva Resort & Spa is 1,300 acres of AAA four-diamond resort. With luxurious guestrooms and suites, decadent dining options, and a Well Spa & Salon, guests who choose to stay active can golf on two championship courses, horseback ride, hike and bike.

Bella Vista Suites is an all-suite, boutique hotel in downtown Lake Geneva, making it easy to take a short stroll and enjoy the walkable downtown for shopping or to get on the Shore Path. All suites feature private balconies and Jacuzzi tubs.

Built in 1865, T.C. Smith Historic Bed & Breakfast is located two short blocks north of downtown and offers several spacious whirlpool and fireplace rooms with fine period antiques, museum paintings and oriental carpets. Breakfast is served in High Victorian style. Guests enjoy the lush, immense private garden complete with wooden swing and comfy outdoor furniture.

For more information, go to VISITLAKEGENEVA.COM or contact Royal Travel & Tours at WWW.ROYAL-TRAVEL.COM. Read more at MAKEITBETTER.NET/TRAVEL

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MOSQUITOES REALLY SUCK! B Y H E AT H E R B L A C K M O R E

Nothing puts a damper on summer fun quite like a swarm of pesky mosquitoes. We asked the experts for their top tips on keeping the little biters around your home at bay.

Just when the weather breaks and you’re finally able to enjoy the outdoors, that familiar, aggravating hum arrives. You can’t see her but she’s there, waiting for that perfect moment.

You slap your ear, swat the air and ultimately decide to head back to the safety of the great indoors, the very place you couldn’t wait to escape only weeks before.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as of Sept. 3, 2016, approximately 2,382 cases of Zika virus had been confirmed or suspected in the United States.

Ninety-nine percent were travel-related. Aedes albopictus, a mosquito species found in Illinois, is less likely to carry the virus than Aedes aegypti, which populates the southern states.

Once a female mosquito mates, she has one thing on her mind: blood. It provides the protein needed for egg maturation.

Unless you stop breathing (she’s drawn to carbon dioxide, lactic acid and octanol, which are present in every exhalation), there’s little chance you’ll go unbitten this summer. Research has revealed that consuming one beer makes you even more attractive. Pregnant? Your elevated body temperature and 21 percent more carbon dioxide in each breath are beacons.

8 0 M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 7

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And those with Type O blood are two times tastier than Type As. Taking a proactive approach to mosquito management, especially in concert with neighbors, can help make landscapes as inhospitable to pests as possible.

WALK THE YARD Every week, take a stroll around your property and be on the lookout for standing water. It only takes one bottle cap of water for her eggs to find a home. Empty pot saucers and check for water in sandbox toys. Drill a few holes in the bottom of tire swings to allow drainage and empty birdbaths. It’s also a good idea to give them a good scrub to dislodge larva that might be attached to the basin. Make sure gutters and downspouts are free of debris.

Rain barrels properly fitted with screening at the opening will prevent mosquitoes from entering and a few mosquito fish added to a pond or water garden will keep populations in check. A Mosquito Dunk is also an effective addition to small ponds and birdbaths where its active ingredient kills larvae and lasts for 30 days or more. It’s safe for birds and fish, too.

#LANDSCAPE

PUNGENT PLANTS Jennifer Brennan, horticulture information specialist at Chalet Nursery, says customers are often disappointed that plants said to repel mosquitoes seem to fall short.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE NATIONAL GARDEN BUREAU

“You cannot just plant them in your yard,” she says. “A plant’s fumes and essence have to be dispersed by rustling the leaves.”

She says containerized plants placed on a table beneath an umbrella are especially effective as the umbrella helps the scent to linger in the seating area. Even rubbing the leaves will release the plant’s oils that can then be dabbed on various parts of the body to help repel mosquitoes. Herbs like mint (mojito anyone?), basil, lavender and rosemary are great choices and can do double duty. Brennan’s favorite, lemon balm, releases a fresh lemon scent when walked on or rustled, but she cautions its aggressive nature, a common quality in the mint family. She recommends sinking containers planted with mint into the garden so that the lip of the container sits about 1.5 inches above the grade of the soil.

Depending on the chosen method, treatments are effective for 14 to 21 days, and he recommends having the yard treated 24 to 48 hours before an event.

“The stems are easily cut when they jump the edge,” says Brennan. “It’s a neat trick for any invasive plant.”

“Just like anything else, if we get four days of rain, the application window is less,” says Dunbar.

SPECIAL OCCASIONS Jim Dunbar, owner of a Chicago-area Mosquito Joe franchise servicing the northern suburbs, sees an uptick in business around major summertime events like the Fourth of July and graduation parties, when customers are looking for a little extra help. The company offers two types of barrier sprays, one derived from the extract of chrysanthemum flowers and an all-natural treatment he says is safe for pollinators. Both are effective against fleas and ticks.

As part of his service, Dunbar says he likes to walk the property with the homeowner to help them identify possible nesting sites for mosquitoes.

Lavender is an excellent addition to an outdoor seating area. Running the hand along a stem will release the oils and disperse the scent that will repel mosquitoes.

“Homeowners don’t realize just how much they can do themselves,” he says.

Read more at MAKEITBETTER.NET/LANDSCAPE

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CALL ILT VIGNOCCHI TODAY AT 847.487.5200 TO BEGIN THE JOURNEY. Quality Honesty Pride Teamwork Cleanliness Safety M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 7

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SPONSORED CONTENT

PREVENT COSTLY PROBLEMS BEFORE THEY HAPPEN

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF HESTER HOME MAINTENANCE

This home maintenance program takes care of the tasks homeowners forget or ignore, which can lead to expensive consequences.

Hester Home Maintenance is a quarterly service visit that helps homeowners avoid expensive headaches by following a proven checklist of more than 30 tasks that reduce risks and save money for your home. “While some items are obvious, others may come as a surprise and are probably never done,” says Steve Hester.

“We realized there is a growing need, and we wanted to provide a service that combines the Hester expertise and customer experience with the goal of protecting our clients’ homes and families.”

Home maintenance is constant and crucial to preserve the safety and value of your home. There is always something that needs to be addressed. Some of these tasks, if ignored, can be extremely costly, potentially even causing a fire or flooding. We are all so busy that many of these important tasks are left unattended, including: • Check the operation of the sump pump and battery back up — to help avoid flooding.

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KITCHEN ALFRESCO

BY MEGAN CRAIG

When summer in Chicago finally hits, we all want one thing: to be outside 24/7.

No need to head indoors when it’s time to cook — just take the kitchen out with you!

Welcome to the most popular summer gathering space: the outdoor kitchen.

After all, why settle for a stand-alone grill and paper plates when you could have an entire kitchen in your backyard — refrigerator, oven, sink, countertop and cabinets included?

We asked area experts for their top tips on creating the perfect outdoor kitchen.

Start with the perfect design There’s no end to how spectacular — and upscale — the space can be. The ideal outdoor kitchen design will take into account the space constraints, as well as the specific tastes and cooking styles of whoever is doing the grilling, basting, roasting and broiling, says Rick Glickman, founder and president of Dream Kitchens, Inc. in Highland Park.

Space constraints “When the customer comes in, we first talk about the area.

I don’t even see it as a design yet,” says Ray Kulinski, highend appliance salesman with Abt Electronics & Appliances in Glenview. “I give them an idea of available appliances, and as we go, we start tweaking.”

Cost, of course, plays heavily into design choices — just because someone wants a pizza oven doesn’t mean they can afford the $5,000 price tag. Mostly, though, the design depends on how a particular buyer plans to use the outdoor kitchen space.

PHOTO COURTESY OF WALTER E. SMITHE

“Basically, how much use will it get, and how much space are you looking at?” says Marion Gorski, senior designer with Ruffolo Landscaping Inc. in Indian Creek. “Some people want to build much larger than others based on how they entertain, so it’s customized to how customers want to use the space.”

Gorski generally starts with the grill area, focusing on where to position it based on the quickest way to get from the kitchen inside the home to the outdoor kitchen. Most people want to make that a short distance, he says, to make it easier when anything is being carried from one kitchen space to the other (dishes, for example, or a marinade or salad that was prepared in advance).

As with an indoor kitchen, an outdoor kitchen usually consists of four components, says Kulinski: cooking, refrigeration, cleaning and storage.

An outdoor kitchen like this one by Walter E. Smithe provides the perfect space for dining and entertaining all summer long.

For cooking, of course, homeowners can choose from a variety of grill areas in brick or stone, and sometimes a charcoal-heated wall oven and burner accessory, like an open burner for side dishes. Some people opt for full refrigerators, while others stick with more basic drinks-only coolers. (“Most people typically bring out the refrigerated food as they go,” Kulinski says.) Cleaning components include some kind of sink area and a trash/recycling bin that can be pulled out from under a cabinet. Those cabinets, of course, also serve as storage for grilling tools and other cooking utensils, although Kulinski suggests drawers, since they make it easy to reach all the way to the back.

Once the buyer chooses appliances and the designer arranges them in the space, the last piece of the puzzle is making it all work.

“We have to figure out, how do we facilitate this?” says Gorski. “Do we have a gas line running from the house out to the grill area? How do we wire everything in?”

Make it tough Installing an outdoor kitchen typically costs more than a new indoor kitchen would, and that’s because materials have to be heavier-duty — and are therefore more expensive to make — to withstand the elements, Glickman says. In Chicagoland, that means being able to stand up to extreme temperatures, high winds, snow, rain and humidity.

Outdoor cabinetry also is made by a different process to hold up over time and through the seasons. That can mean stainless steel cabinets with wood framing or, for less maintenance, stainless cabinets that are coated with a heartier, synthetic substance that looks like wood.

Even stone — a building material known to stand the test of time — erodes when exposed to the elements, says Glickman. The fissures in granite can expand in heat, for example. To avoid this problem, Glickman suggests creating countertops with Dekton, a compact blend of raw materials (porcelain, glass, quartz and others) that’s temperature-resistant, waterproof and weatherproof.

In addition to building with sturdy materials, making an outdoor kitchen strong enough also means doing without some common indoor amenities that would either break or be difficult to maintain.

Ice makers, for example, aren’t common in outdoor kitchens because they require a lot of maintenance, Kulinski says. Instead, he recommends installing a M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 7

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#HOME

drawer with a drainage plug. That drawer can be filled with ice for an event or an evening in the outdoor living space, then easily drained at the end of the day and forgotten until its next use.

Dishwashers also are uncommon in outdoor kitchens because of the difficult plumbing installation and drainage system they require, according to Gorski. More likely, people will install a simple sink used to rinse dishes before bringing them inside for a full cleaning.

Make it useful When it comes to making an outdoor kitchen super functional, a galley sink is the way to go, Glickman says. These sinks, which come in several lengths, actually work as a prepping/cooking/serving system, with two tiers of accessories that slide back and forth.

“There are so many ways you can use it. This is revolutionary to making kitchens work,” Glickman says. “If you cook right next to it, you can even set it up as a buffet.”

Kulinski suggests starting simple — just one counter, a grill unit, a small fridge and some cabinets — and then building up to the more elaborate. Because slow cooking is popular, some customers are mixing both gas and coal-fired grills, then also adding a slow cooker for longer days outdoors.

Like indoor kitchen appliances, outdoor kitchen appliances come in a wide range, from average to super premium.

Average brands would be the lowest-cost, and would be considered “one step under Weber,” which is a well-known premium brand, Kulinski says. Premium products tend to be built better, cooking quality increases (thanks to more consistent heat) and warranties are better. Super-premium

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In addition to the classic grill, this outdoor kitchen includes a sink and faucet, ceramic smoker egg, double-drawer refrigerator and stainless-steel cabinetry.

products, like Wolf or Viking brand outdoor grills, will have the highest-quality burners and best results — as well as the highest price tags.

Kamado Joe is Kulinski’s go-to grill maker, because the lids are spring-loaded and super light, allowing for a better grilling experience. “Nobody wants to have to lift a heavy lid over and over, but you want it to be sturdy enough so it lasts,” he says.

Delight in the details It’s imperative that an outdoor kitchen be easy to work in and around — but that doesn’t mean the design can’t be fun and include several outdoor-specific touches, Glickman says.

For a homeowner who considers himself a true grillmaster, a full grill might not be enough. That person may decide to put in an additional round griddle for making side dishes. A beverage connoisseur might consider adding a full bar with an ice chest and a rail to hold various bottles, as well as a tap in the fridge.

Pizza ovens are a particularly popular add-on, Gorski says.

Freestanding fireplaces linking a bar area with the cooking area are common as well.

“If you’re having a party, it’s no different from when you’re inside — people like to congregate in the kitchen,” Gorski says.

And once the kitchen itself is perfect, the homeowner may want to add a full entertainment space, complete with fire pit, dining table and lounge furniture.

“The sky is the limit — you can really make it fancy,” Glickman says.

Read more at MAKEITBETTER.NET/HOME

PHOTOS COURTESY OF RUFFOLO LANDSCAPING INC. (LEFT) AND DREAM KITCHENS (RIGHT)

This comfortable “L”-shaped kitchenette features a grill, Green Egg and refrigerator.

The countertops are made of limestone.

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Schedule an appointment with one of our cancer specialists to start discussing your treatment options. cancercenter.com/Appointment | 800.950.2822 Located in Zion just off Sheridan Rd. Š 2017 Rising Tide

# H E A LT H

THE NOT-SO-SWEET SIDE OF SUGAR

BY SHANNAN YO U NGER

Women should limit themselves to 25 grams of added sugar per day.

Added sugar is public enemy number one to a healthy diet, and it’s hiding in plain sight. Here’s what you need to know about what might be the most dangerous thing you put in your body.

Americans are consuming a lot of added sugar, around 89 grams per day. That’s two to three times the amount recommended by the American Heart Association, who advises women to consume no more than 25 grams of added sugar per day and men no more than 38 grams per day. To put that into perspective, one teaspoon equals four grams of sugar. There’s a reason health professionals across the country are working hard to raise awareness about the dangers of added sugar, and even governments are stepping in to curb sugar consumption by imposing a “soda tax” on sugary drinks: Sugar is bad news for a healthy diet, and sometimes can be downright deadly.

Why is added sugar so dangerous?

“Sugar comes up daily with my patients,” says Dr. Chung-Kay Koh, an endocrinologist at Advocate Lutheran General. “When we can’t use sugars, our body turns them into fats which clog our arteries and become belly fat.”

Those extra calories that come with added sugar, which lurks everywhere from the obvious desserts and baked goods to the sneakier sources like salad dressings and barbecue sauces, contribute to obesity. Obesity can increase an individual’s risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease as well as many different kinds of cancer.

“Data suggests half of Americans aren’t aware of the link between obesity and cancer, but obesity is connected to 13 different kinds of cancer. One third of the most common cancers can be prevented with lifestyle changes, including weight loss,” says Carolyn Lammersfeld, vice president of integrative medicine at Cancer Treatment Centers of America and author of “Cancer Nutrition & Recipes for Dummies.”

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Should you cut sugar out completely?

Those with a sweet tooth can exhale with relief, because cutting out all added sugar isn’t necessary.

“You don’t need to completely eliminate added sugar, but you do need to moderate your consumption of it,” says Lammersfeld.

Koh agrees, particularly in light of how prevalent sugar is in the American diet.

How to reduce added sugar in your diet There are many ways that you can reduce your intake of added sugar. Lammersfeld developed a multifaceted approach that she defines with the acronym SLASH: • Stay in for meals instead of eating out.

• Look at labels.

• Alternate sugar sources by making your own condiments and sauces without added sugar.

• Sweeten yourself, meaning buy unsweetened products and sweeten them yourself to use less.

• Hydrate with water and rethink what you drink.

“Start by making small changes,” suggests Lammersfeld.

Lynn Tucker, registered dietician at NorthShore University HealthSystem, notes that knowing yourself is instrumental when it comes to making any significant changes to your diet, especially how much sugar you consume. “For some people, quitting sugar cold turkey is a good thing. There are those for whom moderation doesn’t work well. For other people, though, restricting it all together is bad because then they do the opposite and have a ton of sugar. You have to know yourself and know if you can eat just one, or if eating one leads to eating more,” she says.

# H E A LT H

She recommends going through the food in your pantry, examining the labels to determine sugar content, and getting rid of the worst offenders. She notes that ingredients are listed by weight, and often sugars, high-fructose corn syrup, cane syrup and other are listed near the top. Pay attention to items like breakfast cereal and granola bars, which are often loaded with hidden sugar.

Another tip from Tucker is to purchase sweets at a bakery instead of buying a box of cookies from the grocery store. This makes portion control easier as you’re more likely to purchase just one.

Beware of beverages Many people making the effort to reduce sugar focus on food, but don’t forget about drinks. The largest contributors of added sugar and calories to the American diet are sugar-sweetened beverages, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control.

In 1965, sugar-sweetened beverages accounted for 2.5 percent of calories consumed among adults in the U.S. In 2010, they accounted for 9 percent of calories consumed by adults and 11 percent of calories consumed by youth.

“Beverages can be some of the worst offenders for added sugars. That’s the first thing to go when you’re trying to reduce sugar,” says Tucker, who cautions that even drinks that appear healthy, like vitamin water, have a lot of added sugar. Lammersfeld suggests trying to cut back the number of sodas one consumes each day or, instead of drinking the 20-ounce option, go for the 12- or 8-ounce option. Instead of a sugar-laden drink at the coffee shop, try a black coffee or tea.

Being aware of what constitutes added sugar is also important.

Corn syrup in its various forms is an added sugar, as are many ingredients ending in “-ose.” Tucker cautions that natural items can still be used as added sugars, including fruit juice concentrates, honey and maple syrup.

What about natural sugar in fruit?

Some popular diet plans eschew fruit given that it is high in natural sugar, but such a step may not be necessary.

“Fruit has sugar in it, but you’re also getting vitamins, minerals, fiber and phytochemicals that are good for your health,” says Tucker. The fiber in fruit helps you feel full longer.

Like everything, moderation is key, and the experts advise that while fruit certainly has a place in a healthy diet, eating excessive amounts of it, or anything, really, is not advisable.

What about eating out?

While eating in is one of the best ways to control the amount of sugar you consume, there are strategies you can use when eating out to keep added sugar in check. “When eating out, failing to plan is planning to fail,” says Lammersfeld. “Do research ahead of time so you go in knowing the best choices.” She notes that many restaurants have their menus ­— some even with nutritional information — ­ online so it’s easy to do advance research.

In addition to planning ahead, other practical tips include: • Ask for toppings and sauces on the side • If dessert is part of a celebration, share one serving with someone else.

One teaspon equals four grams of sugar.

• Use oil and vinegar in place of other salad dressings.

• Stick with mustard as a condiment instead of those that often have high sugar content, like ketchup and BBQ sauce.

• Drink water, sparkling water or unsweetened tea.

• Watch your portion size.

Labeling matters The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved a change in food labels that includes a separate line stating the amount of added sugar. The change will take effect in July 2018.

“Right now, it’s hard to distinguish between natural and added sugar, and it’s not reasonable to expect people to put a lot of thought into it,” says Lammersfeld.

While it’s a step in the right direction, Koh wonders if the label changes will be enough information for people to significantly reduce added sugar given how ubiquitous it is.

Artificial sweeteners While they don’t have the calories of sugar, artificial sweeteners should also be avoided. “They continue to increase the desire for sweet foods, which is a problem,” cautions Koh. Moreover, Lammersfeld says the data suggests that artificial sweeteners don’t necessarily help people trying to lose weight and may impact the gut biome in ways that are not helpful.

What are the results of reducing added sugar?

“It’s difficult to stop craving sugar,” says Koh. But the good news is that it is not only possible, but it also may get easier over time.

As people consume less sugar, often their taste buds will change.

After a bit of time away from them, processed foods start to taste too sweet, as David Leonhart noted in his article “A Month Without Sugar” in the New York Times.

While people reducing their added sugar intake may initially feel sluggish, in the long term they often find that they have more energy, sleep better, have better blood sugar levels and may also lose weight. Koh also says patients report feeling that their mind is sharper.

“Data suggests that in the long term [reducing added sugar] reduces the risk of chronic diseases, and losing weight means less risk for 13 cancers,” says Lammersfeld.

For someone considering reducing sugar, Koh says, “Think about the positives associated with cutting out the added sugar. They are significant.” The health benefits that come from limiting sugar can be sweet in their own right.

Read more at MAKE ITBETTER.NET/HEALTH M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 7

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#FINANCE

Kids can start getting money smart with their first piggy bank.

MONEY TALK

HOW TO RAISE YOUR KIDS TO BE MONEY GENIUSES

Beth Kobliner

BY ANNA CARLSON

Think your kids are too young to talk to them about money? Think again. New York Times best-selling author Beth Kobliner says it’s never too early to begin introducing financial responsibility to children. Here’s how to get started.

“Parents know they have to talk about sex, they have to talk about drugs, they have to talk about alcohol, but money is one of those that we all probably feel we can slide by without talking about it,” Beth Kobliner says.

Kobliner is the New York Times best-selling author of “Make Your Kid a Money Genius (Even If You’re Not): A Parents’ Guide for Kids 3 to 23,” which she wrote to help parents as they begin teaching kids about money. She is also the creator of the site MoneyAsYouGrow.org and was selected by President Barack Obama for the President’s Advisory Council on Financial Capability for Young Americans. She recently spoke at a Family Action Network event.

“Talking with parents throughout my career, they always express an anxiety about money,” Kobliner says. “Most of the time people are worried about whether they’re doing the right thing. They’re concerned about their own credit card debt or the fact that they haven’t been investing in the market. And I think the idea of revealing that to your kids, the idea that they really aren’t very good about money, I think is a lot of baggage to carry.”

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Despite this, Kobliner thinks teaching kids about money should be easier than talking about other topics like sex and drugs.

“I think unlike the sex talk, when your kid asks you and you kind of have to take that moment in time to have a good long talk about it or respond to questions, I think money should be easier because it’s so integral in everything you do.”

For example, Kobliner’s editor told her that he would never have considered taking his 10-year-old car shopping with him. But, after reading her book, and after his daughter asked questions about what he was doing, he brought her along. They discussed car prices, how he could negotiate and what interest rate he was looking for. He said the experience was fun and interesting for his daughter.

“It was a way for him to comfortably talk to her rather than saying, ‘Let’s sit down and talk about compound interest,’” Kobliner says. “I don’t think it really works that way.”

But what if your kids have grown up?

“This is one of those things when it’s never too late,” Kobliner says. “Even though the research shows that it’s great to talk early and

BETH KOBLINER PHOTO BY BEN BAKER

Parents, it’s time to talk about money.

that has a big impression — starting at age three they understand many concepts, and by eight some of those behaviors are set — there are always ways to reinforce or do the opposite, try to break them of [bad] habits […] I think that goes on forever. As long as there are children and parents, there are lessons you can teach them and things to discuss about money. But I do think starting earlier makes it less of a volatile subject or less of a strained thing to talk about.”

To raise a money genius, it’s also important to talk about giving. Kobliner even dedicates an entire chapter on this subject in her book. In addition to sharing giving tips for preschoolers up to young adults, Kobliner points to six organizations that will allow a child’s small donation to make a big impact: • Heifer International (heifer.org) • No Kid Hungry (nokidhungry.org) • KaBOOM! (kaboom.org) • The Nature Conservancy (nature.org) • Pencils of Promise (pencilsofpromise.org) • DonorsChoose (donorschoose.org) “In the case of giving, I think that’s part of a person’s entire financial outlook,” Kobliner says. “In terms of young children, one of the best recommendations they made for years was put a third of your money in savings, a third of it in money for the future and a third of it in money for giving. That is an excellent way of introducing the idea and it gives kids perspective.

“Kids see advertising in so many ways. It’s not just on TV anymore, but it’s on their phones, on their computers. Advertising is sort of omnipresent. So some kids are left with thinking everybody else is having a great time and spending lots of money and wearing great clothes and why can’t I? And I think now more than ever it’s really important to counter that and say, ‘You know what, there might be things that your friends have or other people have, but there are also people who have nothing of what you have.’

It’s about money, but I also think it’s about values and what’s important to you.”

In her book, Kobliner writes, “If you can, find a project that your whole family can participate in that will make a meaningful impact. Volunteering is a great way to show that money isn’t everything.” And even though she thinks the organizations above are wonderful, she also suggests staying local, choosing “activities that children can see through from contribution to payoff.”

Read more at MAKEITBETTER.NET/ YOURMONEY

Distinction through dedication Proud to be recognized as a 2017 “Forbes Top 200 Women Advisors” for an unwavering commitment to clients Teri Conklin Senior Vice President–Wealth Management 847-498-7800 teri.conklin@ubs.com Conklin Team UBS Financial Services Inc. 5 Revere Drive, Suite 500, Northbrook, IL 60062 847-498-7722 ubs.com/team/conklinteam Accolades are independently determined and awarded by their respective publications. Accolades can be based on a variety of criteria including assets under management, revenue, compliance record, length of service, client satisfaction, type of clientele and more. Neither UBS Financial Services Inc. nor its employees pay a fee in exchange for these ratings. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. For more information on a particular rating, please visit ubs.com/us/en/designation-disclosures. In providing wealth management services to clients, we offer both investment advisory and brokerage services, which are separate and distinct and differ in material ways. For information, including the different laws and contracts that govern, visit ubs.com/workingwithus. UBS Financial Services Inc. is a subsidiary of UBS AG. Member FINRA/SIPC. © UBS 2017. All rights reserved. EXC_0061_Conklin IS1701629 EXP 3/31/18

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BY MAE PL A STIC SU RGERY

As a busy parent, you may not have a lot of time for yourself, but that doesn’t mean a tight, toned body has to be a thing of your pre-kid past.

Children are wonderful, but pregnancy can take a toll on the body.

Skin stretches. Abdominal muscles loosen and separate. Breasts swell and then deflate and sag. Changes to the labia, butt and thighs are common. No amount of diet and exercise can reverse these issues. If you’re looking to restore your pre-mommy body, there are treatments that can help.

Breasts can be lifted, reduced or augmented with round or shaped “gummy bear” implants. Tummies can be tucked with muscle tightening for a flatter, more contoured appearance.

Strategic buttock fat grafting can create a round, lifted appearance without cellulite. Fullness in the abdomen, back and thighs can be reduced with liposuction, or noninvasively with BodyFX. Extra labia skin can be removed to increase confidence during intimacy, allow bikini bottoms to fit better, and prevent irritation during exercise.

Nonsurgical facial rejuvenation can take years off of your appearance.

Botox and Dysport can smooth wrinkles. Injectable fillers restore volume and youthfulness. Advanced skincare techniques like HydraFacial, Dermaplaning and state of the art Laser Technology will restore your skin’s glow after countless sleepless nights.

Dr. Krochmal, Dr. Epstein, their licensed aestheticians, nurse injector and the rest of the MAE staff are here to assist. Visit our website at maeplasticsurgery.com to see before/after photos, and call 847-205-1680 to schedule your consultation. We are offering $1,000 off “Mommy Makeover” and “Daddy Do-Over” surgeries through July 31. Why wait any longer?

Kids don’t just impact a mother’s body. While some may appreciate the “dad bod,” others just aren’t ready for that. Kids can affect workout and eating habits leading to “softening.” Targeted liposuction, with abdominal etching to accentuate the abs, may be a great option for fathers.

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#FA SHION

SUMMER STYLE TREND REPORT

BY TR AC Y CLI FFO R D

Make It Better Fashion Editor Tracy Clifford always has an eye on the runway. Here are her favorite must-have pieces for summer.

IN THE BAG "This is one of my favorite finds for spring/ summer! Truss bags, like this Small Crossbody Bag, are fun, lightweight and well priced without looking it. Shh..." $160, Barneys New York, barneys.com

EARN YOUR STRIPES "Stripes were all over the runways for spring/summer 2017. This Stripe Knit Skirt can be dressed up or paired with a comfy tee and your favorite summer sneaker or slide." $398, Worth New York, worthnewyork.com

SLIDE INTO SUMMER "The mule is definitely the musthave shoe right now. If you make one splurge this season, you should consider these magnificent Capri Metallic Snakeskin Slides from The Row at Barneys New York. They're the definition of luxury." $1,090, Barneys New York

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PHOTO <CREDIT>

FRINGE BENEFITS "This Cashmere Fringe Poncho by Margaret O'Leary Inc. is the perfect topper for cool nights. It adds a pop of color and delivers on the fringe trend. It works on everyone with everything. You know it's right when one size actually does fit most." $295, Juniper Boutique, juniperboutique.com

#FA SHION TOP IT OFF "Finally a hat you can pack! It is a rare fashion find that serves multiple purposes — glamour, skin protection, sun shielding and travel ease. This head candy is a must for summer." $25, Londo Mondo, londomondo.com

LOAFING AROUND "This might be the most versatile men's shoe that I have found. The Swims Breeze Loafer is cool, sporty and fits everyone — and the price is right." $130, Swims, swims.com

WHITE HOT "White denim is always a summer staple. These Le Skinny De Jeanne Jeans from Frame are the perfect wardrobe update. You cannot beat the fit and wash. Plus, the modern hem offers a fresh take on this warmweather basic." $205, Barneys New York

LADIES LIKE "Valentino has given us a WOW bag that is totally worth the investment. Available in black or THE pink hue of the season, the Rockstud Small Double Handle Leather Tote will complement just about everything in your closet." $2,295, Nordstrom, nordstrom.com

FOR THE GIRLS "It's the perfect time of year to embrace Lilly Pulitzer! She offers fun, colorful prints that are just precious on our little ones! This Girls Rue Fit and Flare Dress is absolutely darling and a tastefully playful option for summer dressing." $88, Lilly Pulitzer, lillypulitzer.com

SUNSATIONAL "These Chloé Nate shades are perfection. They somehow manage to feel so new while giving off a vintage vibe. Not to mention they actually fit and won't get caught in your hair." $330, Barneys New York

A FRESH COAT "This is one of the most useful jackets I've seen in a long time. A versatile piece not limited to a season or activity, you can toss this Easy As Jacket over everything from athletic wear to jeans." $168, Lululemon, lululemon.com OH HELLO Everything does not always have to be so serious, especially when it comes to fashion! This Jeweled Camel iPhone 7 Plus Case case is just fun! It's a great conversation piece and easy to spot in your purse." $45, Kate Spade, katespade.com

Tracy Clifford is one of the nation's leading fashion stylists.

She has developed deep experience in the fashion industry through buying and selling for top designers and luxury boutiques, representing designers in showrooms, styling photo shoots and styling individual clients. Tracy loves to help clients feel beautiful and confident in clothes that are complementary, stylish and perfect for their lifestyle.

When Tracy is not working, you can find her shopping, reading up on the latest trends and spending time with her husband and family. Learn more at tracycliffordstyle.com.

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# M O T H E R S DAY

IT’S ALL ABOUT MOM

7 MOTHER’S DAY GIFTS AS SPECIAL AS SHE IS

BY JESSICA SUSS

What in the world do you get the woman who did literally everything for you for the first 20 years (minimum!) of your life? Well, have no fear. We rounded up seven presents that are truly for Mom’s enjoyment (no dustbusters or mixers in sight).

Sweet Mandy B’s Sweet Treats

The “Rejuvenator” Package at the Four Seasons Hotel Chicago

Does mom have a sweet tooth? If so, Sweet Mandy B’s makes some of the best custom cakes, cookies and cupcakes around — perfect for an after-dinner treat.

Prices vary; Sweet Mandy B’s, sweetmandybs.com

Treat Mom to the ultimate indulgence. The Rejuvenator package includes a Four Seasons signature massage (55 minutes of bliss), the Radiant Facial (another 55 minutes of pure “aah”), a classic manicure and a mini pedicure. $395; Four Seasons, fourseasons.com

VIP Wrigley Field Tour

Take an amazing behindthe-scenes tour with your own guide inside the Friendly Confines and see the field, the dugout, the press box and more! If Mom bleeds blue and red, this is the perfect present. $500 for 1-10 people; MLB, mlb.com

PHOTOS COURTESY OF EACH BUSINESS; FOUR SEASONS PHOTO ©FOUR SEASONS HOTEL

SodaStream Power

If your mom is a LaCroix addict (and let’s face it, who isn’t?), then this gadget is exactly what she needs.

The SodaStream Power makes carbonated water at the touch of a button, and you can even select your ideal level of fizz. $129.99; SodaStream, sodastreamusa.com

Soul Cycle Package

For the mom who loves to work out, a Soul Cycle package is the perfect gift.

Use the classes at any of the locations downtown, or at the new one in Old Orchard.

Try a few classes together for extra bonding (and calorieburning!) time. Prices vary; Soul Cycle, soulcycle.com

Yves Delorme Etoile Robe

This cushy cotton and modal-blend robe, available in a gorgeous range of elegant colors, is made for Sunday morning lounging with a cup of coffee. A warning: We can’t promise you won’t want to buy one for yourself. $330; Bedside Manor, shopbedsidemanor.com

Bikes, Bites and Brews Tour

Join Mom for a spin around the city sipping brews, eating snacks and enjoying a gorgeous Chicago day. Sample all of the Chicago classics: hotdogs, cupcakes, beer and, of course, pizza! You’ll get a history lesson on how these foods made Chicago famous as you pedal through Wrigleyville, Gold Coast, Old Town, Lakeview and Lincoln Park. $65.50 per person; Bobby’s Bike Hike, bobbysbikehike.com

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# FAT H E R S DAY

BEYOND THE TIE

7 FATHER’S DAY GIFTS DADS WILL LOVE

BY JESSICA SUSS

Father’s Day can be a tricky one. How are you supposed to let your dad know how much you care without the appropriate gift? And does he really need another golf-related something?

Probably not. So here are seven gifts that he’ll actually love.

Every man needs a great wallet, and this is one of the best. This sleek option made of soft leather tanned

by Horween in Chicago keeps everything together in a tight little bundle Dad can slide in his front pocket — this means no sitting on a lumpy billfold. $50; Ezra Arthur, ezraarthur.com

So high-tech, it basically does everything short of grow the grass for you, Rachio can adjust your watering schedule based on local weather reports, connects to an app (obviously) and can even help you save up to 50 percent off your monthly water bill ­— good for the globe and your grass. $199.99 or $249.99; Rachio, rachio.com

Collectors’ Car Garage Membership

If Dad has a special ride he doesn’t want to keep in the driveway, the Collectors’ Car Garage offers storage, concierge and detailing services, a clubhouse with couches and big-screen TVs, air purification, and video surveillance of the car. Bonus: Make it Better readers get three months of storage free, per vehicle, with a one-year lease. $400 a month; Collectors’ Car Garage, ccgchicago.com

Xtreme Xperience

Send Dad to the Autobahn Country Club in Joliet for a few screaming-fast laps around a real racetrack in a supercar.

Definitely more exciting than a trip downtown for brunch.

Starting at $288; Xtreme Xperience, thextremexperience.com

Gentleman’s Cooperative

Founded by former “Bachelorette” contestant Nick Roy, send Dad here to collaborate with high-end tailors to create a bespoke suit. Gents can also get a haircut, massage, manicure and shoe shine in a swanky setting complete with pool tables, cigars and drinks. Prices vary; Gentleman’s Cooperative, gentlemanscooperative.com

Cooking Classes at The Chopping Block

For the gourmand dad, The Chopping Block offers classes in everything from a steakhouse dinner to the food and wines of California. It’s really a present for the whole family when dad decides to make short ribs. Prices vary by class; The Chopping Block, thechoppingblock.com

Atlas Coffee of the Month Club

Make sure Dad always has a fresh cup of Joe made from single-origin beans waiting for him in the morning. We love Atlas’ sustainable practices and global reach (one month Kenya, the next month Costa Rica!). Prices vary between $14 and $42 every two weeks; Atlas Coffee Club, atlascoffeclub.com

PHOTOS COURTESY OF BUSINESS

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#BEAUTY

YOUR TOP 7 SUMMER HAIR PROBLEMS — SOLVED!

BY JENNY MUSLIN

We love when summer’s long-awaited warmth and sunshine finally arrive, but aren’t exactly thrilled at the toll that summer heat takes on our hair. Here are the best fixes for summer’s most common hair dilemmas.

The number-one hair complaint during the summer months is frizz, caused by humidity in the air. To reduce puff, Andreas Hogue Salon stylist and Education Director Carla Makowski recommends switching to a microfiber towel to dry hair. It absorbs water quickly without roughing up the hair.

Makowski also favors smoothing products like Pureology Smooth Perfection Shampoo and Conditioner (starting at $28, Andreas Hogue Salon, 840 Willow Road, Northbrook, 847-272-1616).

When combatting frizz, oil is your friend. Try a weekly deep-conditioning treatment that’s oil-infused, like Moroccan Oil Restorative Hair Mask ($48, moroccanoil. com), and limit how often you’re washing your hair, as too much washing will deprive hair of its natural oils.

2 Chlorine Build-Up “If your hair is dry and brittle from sun exposure, or if you’re a swimmer with chlorine build-up, a customized hair regimen will help improve hair and scalp condition,” says Ten Friends Blow Dry & Style House Artistic Director Lindsay Zito, who recommends the salon’s re-plumping and detoxifying prescriptive treatments once every four weeks to nourish and replenish.

Be proactive and hit the shower before you get into the pool. Let your hair get really wet during a pre-swim rinse. This minimizes the amount of chlorinated water your hair will absorb in the pool. For added protection, apply a leave-in conditioner.

3 Burnt Scalp Don’t forget about your scalp when slathering on sunscreen! Apply a protective product like Clarins Sunscreen Care Oil Spray ($36, nordstrom.com) or Paul Mitchell Sun Shield Conditioning Spray ($13.75, amazon.com). If you don’t want to use a 100

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product, a hat is always in fashion!

Damage already done? Tea-tree oil is anti-inflammatory and will soothe skin (find it at any Whole Foods). Fill an 8-ounce container 3/4 full with olive, almond or coconut oil. Next, add 10 to 15 drops of tea-tree oil. Massage onto scalp and hair.

Leave it on overnight and shampoo out in the morning.

4 Color Fading To prevent fresh color from fading, Makowski recommends products with UV protection. Pureology’s entire line is sulfate-free and has an anti-fade complex, which makes it her top choice.

It’s vital to add moisture to your hair to keep strands hydrated and lift dull color. Use a moisturizing product after washing hair but before drying it such as Macadamia Professional Nourishing Moisture Oil Spray ($32, macadamiahair. com). A water filter for your shower head is a small investment but will reduce chlorine and other impurities that can strip strands.

Get one with a water-saving feature and you’ll save your hair and conserve water!

5 Hair That Falls Flat If your hair is naturally straight or smooth, it probably tends to fall flat in the summer.

Use a clarifying shampoo once a week to remove product build-up. If you like to let hair air dry, at least blow dry your roots to maintain some volume in your hair.

Finally, go easy on the products, as they can add weight to your hair. If you must use a styling product, instead of a cream or gel, try a hair powder like Label.M Resurrection Dust ($28.50, Pascal Pour Elle, 368 Park Ave., Glencoe, 847-501-3100), favored by Brenda Bonomo, stylist and salon educator at Pascal Pour Elle Salon.

6 Split Ends Dryness from the sun can result in split ends. For prevention, detangle hair with a wide-tooth comb, go easy on the heating

tools and skip everyday hair washing.

A product like Living Proof Perfect Hair Day Fresh Cut Split End Mender ($24, sephora.com) will heal ends while creating a polished finish.

For truly stressed-out hair (due to heat damage, color and chemical processing, and general exposure to the sun), Teddie Kossof Salon offers two incredible professional treatments to instantly transform hair at the mid-shaft and ends. “Nigelle improves natural texture, helps tame frizz, detangles and softens unmanageable rough hair,” explains co-owner Alan Kossof. “The other treatment, Inphenom, deeply restores moisture from the inside out, leaving hair shiny and color vibrant. It revitalizes dull, dry, brittle or porous hair, reversing damage caused by heat or chemical processes.”

Both have results that last up to five weeks.

To book treatments, Teddie Kossof Salon, 281 Waukegan Road, Northfield,847-999-9500

7 Greasy Locks We sweat more during the summer and our hair can become greasier from added perspiration. Clean out your hairbrush to rid it of styling product build-up and avoid washing your hair too frequently. This will only make the problem worse. Instead, try a dry shampoo like Amika Perk Up Dry Shampoo ($22, sephora.com), recently praised by InStyle as the best dry shampoo on the market.

Read more beauty tips online at MAKEITBETTER.NET/ BEAUTY

PHOTOS COURTESY OF MANUFACTURERS

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A FAMILYFRIENDLY GUIDE to THE BEST BIKE CITY in AMERICA B Y B R I T TA N Y A N A S

#FITNESS

It’s summer in Chicago, which means it’s time to get outside and enjoy all that our amazing city has to offer. Instead of packing into the car, get on those bikes! Here’s all you need to know to pedal your way through an amazing summer.

Your family probably has a few summer bucket-list items to get excited about: a trip to the zoo, a pool day, a night at the baseball park. But how about some family bike rides thrown in the mix? Whether you start a new tradition of postdinner bike rides around the neighborhood or take weekend adventures to discover your favorite trail in this bike-friendly city, biking is a quintessential summertime activity.

Another reason to trade out four wheels for two? Chicago is extremely bike-friendly. In fact, this city ascended to the No. 1 spot of bicycle-friendly cities, as ranked by Bicycling Magazine. And, there’s no cooldown in sight as the city plans to add even more trails to the already-existing 200 miles of on-street, protected shared lanes. (That doesn’t even include all of the off-street paths, like the famed 18.5-mile Lakefront Trail.)

Need some incentives to get you rolling?

PHOTOS COURTESY OF BIKE AND ROLL CHICAGO

After the up-front investment in biking and safety gear, getting around by bike can save you money on gas and parking expenses. Plus, Mother Earth thanks you for two-wheeling it because you’re lessening your carbon footprint. Biking also counts as a heart-pumping cardio workout, not to mention it’s way more fun to whizz down a hill or explore a new trail than sit in traffic.

It gets even better: Taking family bike rides is also a great way to bond with your family.

Lesley Tweedie, co-owner at Roscoe Village Bikes in Chicago and the mother of two children, ages 1 1/2 and 4 ½, takes frequent rides with her family. Her eldest is now starting to ride on her own.

“We prefer to go places by bike because then the journey itself becomes part of the activity,” Tweedie says. “Riding gives us fresh air, exercise and an opportunity to experience the world more closely than we do in the car.”

Ready to ride? Here’s your comprehensive guide to bike riding in Chicago.

3 great bike rides

Looking for a fun route?

We asked local bike and rental shops to share their favorite routes for families.

THE RIDE: Bike to the Garden THE ROUTE: Along this route, you can stop and smell the roses …

or the tulips or the lilacs. The North Branch Trail of the Forest Preserves of Cook County extends 20 miles north from Chicago, but you can make this ride as long or as short as you want. A multiuse path connects the North Branch Trail with the Green Bay Trail at the Braeside Metra station in Highland Park, and then the path winds down the south side of Lake Cook Road to the entrance to Chicago Botanic Garden. Bike racks are near the parking lots if you want to take a garden stroll.

THE RECOMMENDATION: Jim Versino, an owner at Wilmette Bicycle

& Sport Shop, likes this nature trail as it rolls through the Turnbull Woods as well as Chicago Botanic Garden’s McDonald Woods.

Versino, who has logged many rides with his children, and now his grandchildren, offers this pro tip: “When the kids were young, I’d try to pick a spot out where we could get donuts or ice cream or a fun destination or park to play at.” Those incentives can help break up a long ride, he says.

THE RIDE: The Chicago River THE ROUTE: You can pick up a trail that starts near W. Argyle Street

and North California Avenue and ride it all the way to W. Petersen Avenue without having to get off to cross streets, says Tweedie.

That ride is about 1.5 miles, but you can take the trail farther north or south if you’d like, she says.

THE RECOMMENDATION: Tweedie classifies this as an easy ride.

She and her family love it because there are playgrounds along the way, including River Park, which has a splash pad and pool if you’re in need of a cool down.

THE RIDE: The Lakefront Trail THE ROUTE: Chicago’s lakefront boasts 18.5 miles of car-free bicycle

paths, which are a fun way to play tourist in your own town. Bike and Roll, a Chicago bike rental and tour company, leads an easy ride that’s less than 6 miles, but takes about 2.5 hours because of stops at cool places like the Lincoln Park Zoo and Conservatory.

THE RECOMMENDATION: Ryan Lawber, general manager at Bike and

Roll, says those who go on this guided ride especially enjoy the stop at the zoo, where you’re greeted by polar bears and rhinos.

“Our tour guides know the city and love telling people about the history and architecture,” he says.

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work it out

Biking is an excellent cardiovascular workout, says Tyler Spraul, a C.S.C.S.-certified head trainer at Exercise.com. It also falls in the low-impact exercise category (read: no pounding the pavement like running, so it’s easier on your joints, Spraul says.)

Beyond the spin class at your gym — which is great when you can’t get outside on a bike — Spraul shares some other ways you can condition yourself for the road and shares tips for torching more calories once you hit the trails.

To prepare for a summer on the bike, Spraul recommends focusing more on endurance than pure strength. When you’re working with free weights or doing bodyweight exercises like squats and lunges, you can increase repetitions in each set and decrease the resting time between those sets.

Add some jump roping into your workouts. The basic workout you can do just about anywhere is a major endurance booster.

Hit the yoga mat. “Since you’re in a hunched posture during biking, doing some yoga workouts to ‘open up’ a little bit would be beneficial as well,” Spraul says.

Once on the trails, choose a route with frequent inclines and hills and pick up your speed when climbing to increase your calorie burn.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE ACTIVE TRANSPORTATION ALLIANCE

If your route is always going to be flat, you can do frequent sprint intervals on your bike. This turns your regular bike ride into more of a High Intensity Interval Training (or HIIT) workout with repeated cycles of work and rest. HITT workouts, Spraul says, are great for weight loss because they create an oxygen deficit that your body has to work to overcome in order to recover. Because of that, he explains, you’re torching extra calories, leading to increased weight loss.

BIKE for GOOD

A few of our favorite rides for a cause 1

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BIKE THE DRIVE May 28 The length of Lake Shore Drive is open to cyclists and closed to auto traffic.

This event benefits the Active Transportation Alliance, a nonprofit that works to make biking, walking and public transit safe, convenient and fun.

More info: bikethedrive.org

BIKE COMMUTER CHALLENGE June 16 - 23 Leave your car at home and commute to work on a bike. Bonus if you can run errands on your bike, too. The week will include rallies, parties and contests. More info: bikecommuterchallenge.org

VENUS DE MILES July 22 This women-only bike ride, 5k run and finishline festival help raise money for Greenhouse Scholars, which provides scholarships for lowincome students. More info: venusdemiles.com

SNACK ATTACK!

Whether you’re a commuter, a weekend warrior or both, here’s a guide to buying the right bikes and gear for your family.

You don’t want any crashes — energy included. Here are three registered-dietitian-approved snacks to pack on your bike from Christy Brissette, owner of 80 Twenty Nutrition.

A BIKE SEAT: Thule makes child

bike seats you can attach to both the

front and the back of a bike — helpful if you’ve got two kids in tow. The Thule Yepp Maxi is a smart and functional bike seat that’s shock-absorbing. ($199.95, thule.com)

A BIKE FOR FITNESS AND MORE: Built for speed and comfort, the Trek FX series is a line of urban road bikes great for a workout, commute to work or if you just want to ride up to a coffee shop. (Starting at $379, Richard’s Bicycles, rbikes.com)

ENERGY BARS During your bike ride, you need quick energy from carbohydrates that your muscles can use right away. “Plus you want to keep your blood sugar levels stable to avoid the dreaded energy crash.” Carbs are great for a long ride, defined as anything over an hour, she says. An ideal energy bar has dried fruit, like raisins, some rolled oats and banana. “You want this bar to be lower in fiber and fat, so it doesn’t sit in your stomach,” Brissette says.

A PERFECT COMMUTER BIKE: You’re doing your part to keep cars off the road and the air clean. But no one wants to arrive at work sweaty and tired. Enter the ebike, with electric assist to help you power along. If money is no object, it’s tough to beat the Haibike XDURO Trekking 4.0 ($4,399.99, Kozy’s Cyclery, kozy.com). At a lower price point, we love the retro-chic Raleigh Superbe iE ($1,699.99, Richard’s Bicycles).

PB&J SANDWICH

PHOTOS COURTESY OF EACH MANUFACTURER

The bread and jelly give you quick carbs to fuel your ride, and the peanut butter or almond butter gives you a bit of protein and fat for more sustained energy, she says.

A TRAILER FOR THE KIDS: Until the kids can ride on their own, you’ll be their chauffeur.

Transport them safely with a trailer. We love the Thule Chariot Lite 2-Child Multisport Trailer ($799.95, thule.com) and the Burley Honey Bee Bike Trailer ($399, burley.com).

AN ALL-IN-ONE BIKE: The Raleigh Alysa 4 for women and Raleigh 2017 Redux 3 for men are ready for all of your adventures, from getting to and from work to going for weekend rides with your family. (Starting at $899.99, raleighusa.com).

TRANSPORT: Once you’ve got great bikes and gear, you’ll want to go places. You’ll need a good transport system to get from point A to point B. Thule has an awesome “fit my car” feature on its website to help you determine which bike racks, cargo carriers and roof racks are your best bet. (Thule.com)

TRAIL MIX Raisins, prunes and dried apricots are packed with potassium to replace losses from sweat, Brissette says.

Salted nuts and seeds replace sodium. “Plus, you’re getting quick sugars from the fruit and slowerburning energy from protein and fat thanks to the nuts and seeds,” she says. We love Niloofar Persian Trail Mix, created by Winnetka Native Niloo Mirani ($11 for an 8-oz. bag, niloofarmix.com).

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“NELL”

By Ron White

Before you get those little ones pedaling, make sure these safety tips are being followed.

Wear a helmet. And, make sure it fits. It should sit on the top of the head in a level position, not rocking backward or forward or side to side. Safe Kids recommends kids take the Helmet Fit Test at SafeKids.org.

Vibrato Boutique Plaza del Lago 847-853-1434 VibratoBoutique.com

Make sure the bike fits. When children are sitting on the seat of a bike, their feet should be able to touch the ground. Before the ride, make sure reflectors are secure, brakes are working, gears shift smoothly and the tires are properly inflated and secure. Also, long or loose clothing can get caught in bike chains or wheel spokes, so make sure kids are appropriately dressed.

Model good behavior. Wear a helmet; teach your kids to ride on the right side of the road with traffic, not against it; use appropriate hand signals and obey traffic laws. Also, stop and look left, right and left again before entering a street, crossing or intersection.

For more tips, visit safekids.org

rent a bike

No bike? No problem. Chicago’s bike-share program Divvy has 5,800 bikes and can loan you one. Here’s how it works: You can become an annual member ($99 a year) or buy a 24-hour pass ($9.99) from a Divvy station kiosk or Transit App. Altogether, there are 580 bike-dispensing stations across the city. Learn more at divvybikes.com

PHOTO BY BROOKE MCDONALD

Supervise the ride. It can be hard for kids to judge the speed and distance of cars until age 10, so limit riding to sidewalks, parks or bike paths. Children should be able to demonstrate riding competence and know the rules of the road before cycling with traffic.

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#BOOKS

COOKBOOKS = LOVE

OUR FAVORITE COOKBOOKS FOR EVERY KIND OF COOK (AND EATER)

BY JULIE CHERNOFF

The best cookbooks are far more than a compilation of recipes, or a roadmap to tonight’s dinner. Really great cookbooks can be read like novels, remembered, savored and treasured. They’re a window into a different time, culture or lifestyle.

They’re filled with recipes you just have to make, that provoke unbidden salivation, propel you out of your chair to make a shopping list, grab your keys and head to Whole Foods or Trader Joes. If you’re looking for the perfect gift to show your love for mom, dad or a soon-to-be graduate, look no further. Expand their world with a cookbook.

For the One Who Puts Dinner on the Table Small Victories: Recipes, Advice + Hundreds of Ideas for Home-Cooking Triumphs Julia Turshen It’s worth noting that Turshen also did the gorgeous food styling for this book filled with useful and doable recipes that you’ll make again and again.

For the New York Times Devotée Dinner: Changing the Game Melissa Clark New York Times food columnist Clark shares this all-new collection of recipes that reveals her own home-cooking habits, putting a welcome spin on familiar favorites that even your kids might eat.

For the Open-Minded Thinker Victuals: An Appalachian Journey with Recipes Ronni Lundy Culinary historian Lundy was born and raised in Kentucky, and she knows the recipes and traditions of Appalachia like the back of her hand. A fascinating read.

For the Avid Reader Deep Run Roots: Stories and Recipes from My Corner of the South Vivian Howard Howard, star of PBS’ “A Chef’s Life,” tackles the flavors and stories of the Carolina coast, from favorite family entrees to decadent desserts and seasonal preserves. The woman can tell a tale.

For the Veggie Lover Vegetable Butcher: How To Select, Prep, Slice, Dice and Masterfully Cook Vegetables from Artichokes to Zucchini Cara Mangini A fabulous how-to book for any cook, with useful tips (and fabulous photos!) on how to prepare any vegetable, from selection and storage to cooking methods and recipes.

For the Cocktail Aficionado The Curious Bartender’s Gin Palace Tristan Stephenson The history of gin is fascinating, from medicinal juniper through the growth of the spice trade to the toast of London society. You’ll find plenty of gin-soaked recipes here. I’ll have another.

For the Food Blogger Fan Molly on the Range: Recipes and Stories from an Unlikely Life on a Farm Molly Yeh The irrepressible Yeh, a Glenview native and Juilliard-trained classical percussionist, gives us a cookbook that’s serious fun, a joyous mash-up of her Jewish and Chinese heritages.

For the Cookie Fanatic Dorie’s Cookies Dorie Greenspan Greenspan is finally devoting an entire book to her single favorite food: the cookie. Cookies for breakups, for every day, for holidays, for weekends, even for cocktails … and you’ll desperately want every one.

Read more book recomendations online at MAKEITBETTER.NET/BOOKS M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 7

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# T H E AT E R

Mike Nussbaum in “Relativity”

Stacy Keach in “Pamplona”

STAR-STUDDED STAGES

BY ROBERT LOER ZEL

“RELATIVITY”

May 11 – June 18 | Northlight Theatre, 9501 Skokie Blvd., Skokie 847-673-6300 | northlight.org The 93-year-old Mike Nussbaum is a marvel to behold, commanding stages with his nuanced performances. After playing Sigmund Freud in Mark St. Germain’s play “Freud’s Last Session,” Nussbaum is back as another intellectual giant, Albert Einstein, in another script by St. Germain. Directed

by BJ Jones, this drama presents a reporter who interviews Einstein about secrets from his personal life.

“PAMPLONA”

May 19 – June 18 | Goodman Theatre, 170 N. Dearborn St., Chicago 312-443-3800 | goodmantheatre.org Stacy Keach won a Golden Globe for his performance as Ernest Hemingway in the 1988 TV miniseries “Hemingway.”

Nearly three decades later, he’s back in the same role, playing the legendary author as he faced depression and declining health near the end of his life. In Jim McGrath’s new play, Hemingway is holed up in a Spanish hotel, struggling to write about matadors. The 75-year-old Keach will play Hemingway at age 56, with direction from the Goodman’s artistic director, Robert Falls, who memorably collaborated with Keach on an audacious “King Lear.”

“PARADE”

May 24 – July 9 | Writers Theatre, 325 Tudor Court, Glencoe 847-242-6000 | writerstheatre.org 110

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Originally staged on Broadway in 1998, this show focuses on an unusually somber and serious topic for a musical: the true history of Leo Frank, a Brooklyn-born Jewish man falsely accused of murder in Atlanta in 1913. One of the Chicago area’s most esteemed directors, Gary Griffin, will guide this production of the Tony Award-winning musical by composer Jason Robert Brown and playwright Alfred Uhry.

“CANDIDE”

June 3 – 11 | Music Theater Works, at Cahn Auditorium, 600 Emerson, Evanston | 847-920-5360 | musictheaterworks.com Formerly known as Light Opera Works, this North Shore company has been rechristened Music Theater Works. As the new name suggests, they do more than just operettas. This musical

by Leonard Bernstein, based on Voltaire’s satire on humanity’s foibles, should offer a perfect chance for this group to show off its strengths. It’s an enjoyable and sophisticated show straddling the line between classical music and Broadway entertainment.

“DANCE FOR BEGINNERS”

May 13 – June 11 | Piven Theatre, 927 Noyes St., Evanston 847-866-6597 | piventheatre.org The centerpiece of a Piven season devoted to women’s voices, this new drama by the female Chicago playwright MT Cozzola takes an intimate look at the beginnings of a relationship in the third act of life.

LEFT PHOTO BY MICHAEL BROSILOW; OTHER PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE GOODMAN THEATRE

The Chicago theater scene has serious star power in May and June — with Stacy Keach embodying Ernest Hemingway in one drama, while Mike Nussbaum portrays Albert Einstein in another play.

Objects in the Mirror

Other shows worth checking out: “Ah, Wilderness!” June 17 – July 23, Goodman Theatre, 312-443-3800, goodmantheatre.org “The Bridges of Madison County,” June 21 - Aug. 13, Marriott Theatre, 847-634-0200, marriotttheatre.com “Hir,” June 29 – Aug. 20, Steppenwolf Theatre, 312-335-1650, steppenwolf.org “Moby Dick,” June 7 – Sept. 3, Lookingglass Theatre, 312-337-0665, lookingglasstheatre.org “Objects in the Mirror,” April 29 – June 4, Goodman Theatre, 312-443-3800, goodmantheatre.org “Pass Over,” May 25 - July 2, Steppenwolf Theatre, 312-335-1650, steppenwolf.org “Stick Fly,” May 12 - 21, Northwestern University’s Josephine Louis Theater, 847-491-7282, communication.northwestern.edu/tic/ Read more at MAKEITBETTER.NET/THEATER

SPONSORED CONTENT

YOU CAN SAVE A LIFE

BY THE AMERICAN RED CROSS OF CHICAGO & NORTHERN ILLINOIS

Whether you’re at a restaurant with your family or relaxing at home, lifesaving skills like CPR can protect your loved ones in an unexpected emergency. For more than a century, the American Red Cross has prepared people to respond to emergencies, big and small.

American Red Cross first aid training classes give you the information and the skills you need to help adults and children during many emergency situations.

Available online, in person, and via our blended training method, which combines online work with hands-on skills sessions, our first aid training delivers the latest information in the format that suits you best.

One week after 17-year-old Reid Heiser completed his Red Cross CPR training, he needed to use it. Reid saved the life of Jim

Hammer after he collapsed at the recreation center where Reid worked. “I had to just give him a big hug,” says Reid. “It was one of the coolest times in my life, being able to talk to the guy after I gave him CPR.” Join the millions we train every year and learn the skills that can save a life no matter where you are. Take a Class: redcross.org/ take-a-class/first-aid

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At her granddaughter’s sixth birthday, Judy Bardouche began choking on some food. Luckily, her daughter-in-law Amber was Red Cross trained and able to save her life. Olivia, Judy’s granddaughter, remembers how scared she was, “I’m really glad she survived that.”

Show your love on June 21. help end Alzheimer’s.

On the summer solstice, team up with the Alzheimer’s Association and select any activity you love — or an activity loved by those affected — to help end Alzheimer’s. Together, we will raise funds and awareness for care and support while advancing research toward the first survivor of Alzheimer’s.

Register at alz.org/thelongestday.

#PHILANTHROPY

BY WILL MENDELSON

GI V E T I M E

GI V E T H I NGS SUPPORT STUDENTS Horizons for Youth 312-627-9031 | horizons-for-youth.org Horizons for Youth enables Chicago students of all academic ability levels to become the first in their families to graduate from college. Horizons for Youth serves 250 students from Chicago’s low-resource neighborhoods, grades K-college.

Students are always in need of school supplies as they work toward and through college. Specifically, students would benefit from zipper binders, calculators and gift cards to Barnes & Noble, Amazon or local bookstores. In addition, both students and their families would benefit from prepaid gas cards to help get students to and from school and parents to work. Mail to Horizon’s main office at 703 W. Monroe, Chicago, IL 60061.

VOLUNTEER TO READ WITH A CHICAGO PUBLIC SCHOOL STUDENT Innovations for Learning 800-975-3452 | innovationsforlearning.org Innovations for Learning’s mission is to help primary grade teachers be more effective in their pivotal task of teaching students to read. The TutorMate online literacy program seeks volunteers who are able to commit just 30 minutes per week. Tutor from your desk and help a young Chicago Public Schools student learn to read. All you need to participate is a phone, an internet connection, and the desire to change a child’s life. To learn more and schedule a tutoring time, visit innovationsforlearning.org.

1 1 4 M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 7

Since 1981, the James B. Moran Center for Youth Advocacy has been dismantling the school-to-prison pipeline with a lifeline of integrated, holistic legal and social work programs.

Join the Center’s “Justice League” by contributing to the Justice Challenge Campaign. Your donation will help leverage the transformative potential of a matching grant, helping to close the justice gap and provide kids with meaningful chances at success. Gifts of $5,000 or more will be matched, but donations at any level are appreciated. Donations can be made online at moran-center.org or mailed to 1123 Emerson St., Suite 203, Evanston, IL 60201.

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PHOTOS COURTESY OF EACH ORGANIZATION

GIVE SUPPORT

DONATE TO CLOSING THE JUSTICE GAP James B. Moran Center for Youth Advocacy 847-492-1410 | moran-center.org

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# M I B P H I L A N T H R O P YAWA R D S

5

th

Annual

BY WILL MENDELSON

Nothing matches the excitement we share as a team at Make It Better when it comes time for the Make It Better Foundation to bestow its annual Philanthropy Awards on outstanding and deserving nonprofits. This year, for the Fifth Annual Philanthropy Awards, MIBF honors — and we celebrate — three impactful and inspiring organizations that join the illustrious group of 37 previous winners.

Each winning organization is showcased through a special video and coverage across all Make It Better platforms. Winners also receive vital marketing training and networking opportunities to help them spread awareness of their mission and garner support. This year’s winners will be heonored in our special celebration, generously emceed by CBS 2 Chicago, at Wintrust’s Grand Banking Hall on May 3. MIB most gratefully thanks our presenting sponsor Wintrust, as well as Imperial Lamian and Tracy Clifford Style, for their support of this celebration.

MIBF’s Academy of Judges — a vibrant community of esteemed venture philanthropists, past winners, sponsors and thought leaders — selects winners based on excellence, scalability, efficiency, leadership and effectiveness. MIBF is also grateful for the generous support from award sponsors Patrick G. and Shirley W. Ryan Foundation in honor of pathways.org and Kellogg Nonprofit Executive Education Team.

So which three organizations take home this year’s big prize? Read on to find out, and congratulations to the winners!

Watch winner videos and learn more about MIBF’s Academy of Judges at MAKEITBETTER.NET/PHILANTHROPYAWARDS

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# M I B P H I L A N T H R O P YAWA R D S

EDUCATION

ONE MILLION DEGREES Since its inception in 2006, One Million Degrees has served as the only organization in Illinois that empowers low-income, highly motivated college students to succeed in school, work and life.

CEO Paige Ponder leads a staff of 23 who work to help community college students — who make up more that 60 percent of all public college students in Illinois — graduate and flourish in the “real world”.

One Million Degrees’ innovative Scholar Development Program aims to “transform academic and professional outcomes for community college students by providing layers of support that address students’ complex and diverse challenges.”

The program’s core components include personal support in the form of monthly coaching from a business professional and case management from trained program coordinators; professional support which includes leadership development and monthly professional development sessions; academic support that includes free weekly tutoring; and financial support, specifically up to $1,000 a year in tuition assistance and stipends.

In OMD’s first 10 years, 66 percent of program participants have either received their associate’s degree and/or earned sufficient credits to transfer to a four-year university. As of spring 2016, 89 percent of those who have transferred have either received their bachelor’s degree or are still pursuing it currently.

As OMD rapidly expands, the organization is excited to be piloting a group coaching system that will provide both scholars and coaches “with a more robust experience.”

Location: Illinois

HUMAN SERVICES: EMPOWERMENT

NEW MOMS, INC. New Moms offers an array of transformative programs, such as housing and supportive services for 40 homeless families, education reenrollment and job skills training, prenatal support groups and parent support and education. At the core of New Moms is its commitment to help young mothers “foster positive family relationships, while supporting transformation in the areas of education, health, employment and housing.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF EACH ORGANIZATION

President and CEO Laura Zumdahl, along with 28 other employees, helped 82 pregnant and parenting adolescents and their 89 children in 2016, providing both doula and parenting services.

Since 1983, New Moms, Inc. has provided unconditional and meaningful support to young moms who “want to find a safe place to live, get a quality job, and give their children a brighter future — even if they have no idea of where to start.” Nearly 70 percent of these young moms are victims of sexual or domestic abuse, and many are homeless.

Location: Chicagoland

After the initial assistance participants receive, the organization continues to provide doula services, parent support groups and family engagement activities, remaining a strong support in participants’ lives.

New Moms recently acquired Parenthesis Family Services, a similar organization in Oak Park, which has an extensive donor network in its own right. Parenthesis is now “a program of New Moms,” making 2017 one of the most exciting years in the organization’s history.

Award Sponsor: Patrick G. and Shirley W. Ryan Foundation in honor of pathways.org M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 7

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# M I B P H I L A N T H R O P YAWA R D S

SOCIAL JUSTICE

BUILD, INC. Founded in 1969, BUILD, Inc. has been engaging at-risk youth both in and out of the classroom to help realize their full career potential, and also to contribute to the overall safety of their neighborhoods.

Executive Director Adam Alonso has been working closely with BUILD, Inc., first as a volunteer and currently as executive director, for 25 years, during which he’s “observed BUILD’s mission in action as the organization invests each year in more than 2,000 young people who have the highest intensity of need and risk, and who live in communities that face the greatest challenges.”

BUILD’s Intervention Program serves youth ages 11-14 in five of Chicago’s most challenged communities with high risk of gang involvement. This special program “addresses the individual and social risk factors associated with participation in gangs, crime and violence, mitigates their impact and promotes resiliency.”

The program’s Intervention Specialists, including former offenders with strong ties to the community, mentor the program’s youth and work with them on academic engagement and support, life skills, the arts and gang detachment.

What makes BUILD truly so incredible are the success stories of the young people the Intervention Program has helped over the course of BUILD’s nearly 50 years in operation. Jabriel, an 18-year-old college student who is now thriving at Kishwaukee College in Malta, Illinois, entered BUILD after being in and out of foster homes for seven years. With the help of his BUILD mentor Booney, he found someone to count on, and his successes are a reflection of BUILD’s astounding work.

Location: Chicago

PHILANTHROPY AWARDS

BY THE NUMBERS

5thAnnual

Build, Inc.

New Moms, Inc.

One Million Degrees

$1 invested in court and gang-related youth saves the community $46 More than 2,000 young people at

A $5 contribution would provide one family meal 40 homeless families served by the center’s housing 82 pregnant and parenting adolescents helped by New Moms’ support services in 2016 89 children helped in 2016 by the center’s parenting services

A $5 contribution provides one scholar toolkit, textbook and programming $1,000 per year in financial support in the form of stipends, grants and tuition assistance 700 scholars empowered for the 2016-2017 year 1,000 scholars expected to be served by 2018

highest risk and with greatest need have been helped.

274 youths involved in the Intervention Program in 2016 Nearly 50 years in operation

THANK YOU TO EVENT SPONSORS

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I need you to help me transition to independence.

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JCFS is a partner with the Jewish United Fund in serving our community.

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We nurture children!

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Structured, language-enriched curriculum Small class in a caring and developmentally appropriate setting Compassionate therapists who strive to enhance each child’s social, emotional and cognitive growth Access to our other pediatric interventions (speechlanguage, occupational and developmental therapies) in our state-of-the-art facility with therapeutic gym and sensory awareness room

Now enrolling for Fall 2017 To enroll in the nationally renowned Virginia Frank Therapeutic Preschool call 773.765.3100 or email ask@jcfs.org Abe and Ida Cooper Center Esther Knapp Campus 6639 N. Kedzie, Chicago

Jewish Child & Family Services is a partner with the Jewish United Fund in serving our community. 5.2017

#BETTERMAKERS

BETTER MAKERS AND THEIR IMPACT

ILLINOIS HOLOCAUST MUSEUM & EDUCATION CENTER’S 2017 HUMANITARIAN AWARDS DINNER • MARCH 8 , 2017 Hyatt Regency Chicago • More than $2.5 million

ILLINOIS HOLOCAUST MUSEUM

PHOTO BY CHRIS STRONG

The 2017 Humanitarian Awards Dinner honored Dr. Richard A. Chaifetz of ComPsych Corporation and E. Scott Santi of ITW. Former First Lady Laura Bush served as keynote speaker.

Money raised at this event will support the educational mission of the Museum.

The Museum’s Immediate Past Board of Trustees Chair J.B. Pritzker, Former First Lady Laura W. Bush, and Museum President and Holocaust survivor Fritzie Fritzshall

PHOTOS BY RON GOULD STUDIOS

The Chaifetz family of Lake Forest: Ross Chaifetz, Dr. Richard A. Chaifetz, 5 Jill Chaifetz, Jessica Schachter, Andrew Schachter

Museum CEO Susan Abrams of Highland Park

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The Santi family of Winnetka: Richard Santi, Josie Santi, Nancy Santi, E. Scott Santi, and Casey Santi

#BETTERMAKERS

JEWISH FEDERATION OF METROPOLITAN CHICAGO

“DEFIANT REQUIEM: VERDI AT TEREZIN” • MARCH 23, 2017 Symphony Center • More than $4.6 million Lead sponsors: the Crown family and Pritzker Family Philanthropic Fund

PHOTOS BY ROBERT F. KUSEL

Ambassador Stuart Eizenstat, Chairman of the Board of the Defiant Requiem Foundation; Frances Clark Eizenstat; Deborah Sidlin; and Maestro Murry Sidlin

Jack Mangurten, survivor of Terezin, with son-in-law Michael H. Zaransky, Chairman of the Board of the Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago

Nearly 2,300 people attended the sold-out Chicago premiere of “Defiant Requiem: Verdi at Terezin.”

THE COVE SCHOOL ANNUAL BENEFIT • FEB . 25, 2017 The Loews Chicago O’Hare Hotel • More than $500,000 Corporate sponsors included: Academic Approach, BMO Harris Bank, Grane Transportation, Dr. Pepper Snapple, Bank of America Merrill Lynch, American Chemet Corporation, HCI Equity Partners, Lyfe Kitchen, MB Financial, Michael Best, G&O Thermal, LG Construction, Miller Cooper & Co. Ltd. Seyfarth Shaw and Winston & Strawn. “Friends of Cove” included: The Davishoff Family, Eyes on the Lake, Gonnella Baking Company, The Medel/Wiedmayer Family, Queue Marketing Communications Group, Rubin Law, and The Sampson Family.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE COVE SCHOOL

THE COVE SCHOOL

Money raised at this event will benefit the Jewish Federation of Metropolitan Chicago’s Holocaust Community Services program.

Front row from left: Beverly Petersen, Debra Johnson, Lisa Flanagan, Sue Gottfred, Ann Marie Novar, Courtney Jack and Betsy Ellen; Back row from left: Carol Finnegan, Becky Blase, Betsy Crosswhite, Ann Erie and Amy Walsh

Cove parent Karen Vangalis with Board of Trustee and Golden Paddle winner Ross Vangalis of Lake Forest

Amy McCormish (left) and Chris McCormish (far right) from Lake Bluff with Cove parents Maureen and Kim Klatt of Lake Forest

Money raised at this event, which celebrated Cove’s 70th anniversary, will benefit the school in order to continue providing the highest-level of support to students with learning disabilities.

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#BETTERMAKERS

INSTITUTO DEL PROGRESO LATINO’S ALTA COCINA: A SPRING CHEF’S GALA • MARCH 25, 2017 Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel • $390,000

INSTITUTO DEL PROGRESO LATINO

PHOTOS COURTESY OF INSTITUTO DEL PROGRESO LATINO

Presenting Sponsor: Greeley and Hansen Title Sponsors: Allstate Insurance, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois, BMO Harris Bank, Comcast and JPMorgan Chase

Money raised at this event will support Instituto del Progreso Latino’s programs and school in Chicago.

Mexican Folkloric Dance Group Chicago performing for Alta Cocina guests

Guests of Presenting Sponsor Greeley and Hansen

Bidders participating in the evening’s auction

A SILVER LINING FOUNDATION’S GLITZ AND GLAMOUR FASHION SHOW • MARCH 3, 2017 The Peninsula Hotel • More than $35,000

A SILVER LINING FOUNDATION

PHOTOS COURTESY OF A SILVER LINING FOUNDATION

This event was presented by A. Marek Fine Jewelry. Participating fashion designers included Mark Roscoe, Borris Powell, Julie Mersine, Elena Bobysheva, Leandro Mulet, Gigi, Diego Rocha and J. Toor.

Maria Ledezma, Ron Hoffman and Jean Hoffman, all of Chicago

Micah Materre of WGN News

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Adiat Baker and Dr. Sandy Goldberg, both of Chicago

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Money raised at this event will provide 280 mammograms to uninsured or underinsured women and men.

#BETTERMAKERS

INAUGURAL VIP DINNER TO BENEFIT THE SCHOLARSHIP FUND AT FRANCIS W. PARKER SCHOOL • FEB. 21, 2017 Spiaggia • $10,000

WANSAS TEQUILA

This event, hosted by Wansas Tequila and Alberto Rojas, raised money for The Scholarship Fund at Francis W. Parker School in Chicago.

Steve Dolinsky served as emcee.

PHOTOS BY MICHELLE MORRIS

Michael Santoro, National Sales Director, Thomas Coffee; and Michelle Morris

Dan Uslan, Publisher, Michigan Avenue magazine; Michelle Morris, Publisher at Make It Better; Lorrie McDaniel, Regional Director, The RealReal; and Steve Dolinsky of ABC 7 and The Feed Podcast

Alberto Rojas of Wansas Tequila and Dan Frank, Principal, Francis W. Parker School

The Oscar-winning film returns to its true home—the stage!

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Kate McGonigle & Nick Rehberger; photo by Jeff Sciortino

based on the screenplay

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and Tom Stoppard

adapted for the stage by Lee Hall directed by

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# L O C A LT R E A S U R E

THE TOP CHICAGO FEMALE PHILANTHROPISTS

BY MAKE IT BETTER

The word philanthropy means love of humanity. Therefore, donating service or money qualifies anyone to be considered a philanthropist. Women are particularly powerful philanthropists because they are inclined inherently to donate their time and connections, as well as their dollars, to support causes. The 31 women on this list are leading that charge in Chicago.

The biggest philanthropic news in Chicago recently is the merger of the Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago with Pathways to become the new world-class hospital Shirley Ryan AbilityLab. The subtext has to be the power of RIC’s Women’s Board. Follow the lead on most major gifts and you will quickly see the connection: Women’s philanthropy is changing the world for the better, faster than ever.

The following philanthropists donate prodigious time, talent, connections and dollars. Others may donate more time, connections or dollars, but this group rolls up their sleeves and does whatever it takes to do the most good expediently.

1 Ellen Alberding Joyce Foundation President 1 2 4 M AY / J U N E 2 0 1 7

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2 Carol Lavin Bernick CEO of Polished Nickel Capital Management; Principal of Carol Lavin Bernick Foundation; Executive Committee of Chicago Community Trust; Trustee of Northwestern and Tulane Universities 3 Carolyn “Kay” Bucksbaum Founder of University of Chicago’s Bucksbaum Institute; Board member of Art Institute of Chicago, Museum of Arts & Design in NYC and National Public Radio Foundation; Benefactor of Grinnell College

PHOTOS COURTESY OF EACH WOMAN; TOP PHOTO BY ROBERT F. KUSEL; CAROL LEVIN BERNICK PHOTO COURTESY OF CHICAGO COMMUNITY TRUST; CAROL “KAY” BUCKSBAUM PHOTO COURTESY OF THE BUCKSBAUM INSTITUTE

Margot Pritzker and Renee Crown

4-7 Renee, Susan, Paula and Nancy Crown The Crown Family is renowned for its philanthropic support in Chicago and around the world. The family tends to give as a block, rather than as individuals.

Paula Crown

8 Shawn Donnelley President of Strategic Giving, Chicago Community Trust Executive Committee; Board member of United States Artists, Northwestern Memorial Foundation and American Associates of the National Theatre 9 Janice Feinberg President of the Joseph & Bessie Feinberg Foundation; Spertus Board of Trustees 10 Mary Galvin Benefactor of music and arts initiatives at Northwestern University, in Chicago and around the world; Founder of Stradivarius Society 11 Phyllis Glink Executive Director of the Irving Harris Foundation 12 Joyce Green Trustee and/or Benefactor of Chicago Symphony Orchestra, Orlando Performing Arts Center, Depauw University

MARY GALVIN PHOTO BY JOHN KRINGAS; SHAWN DONNELLEY PHOTO COURTESY OF CHICAGO COMMUNITY TRUST; MELLODY HOBSON PHOTO BY JOI ITO/FLICKR; SHIRLEY RYAN PHOTO COURTESY OF RIC

13 Caryn Harris Trustee or significant supporter of a plethora of Chicago civic organizations 14 Joan Harris Patron Saint of Chicago and U.S. performing arts: Founder of Harris Theatre; Co-Founder Harris Policy Center at University of Chicago; Past Chair of Irving Harris Foundation 15 Mellody Hobson President of Ariel Investments and board member of numerous Chicago and national organizations; with husband George Lucas, she donated millions to build the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art in Los Angeles, as well as recent gifts of $10 million to USC School of Cinematic Arts and $1 million to the Smithsonian.

16 Lindy Keiser RIC/Shirley Ryan AbilityLab Womens Board member and $10 million donor; significant education philanthropy 17 Kim Keywell Giving Pledge signer, Keywell Foundation Executive Director; Vice Chair of OneGoal

18 Nancy Knowles President and Treasurer of Knowles Foundation; Director of CellCeuticals Skin Care, Inc; donated $12 million to RIC for “Nancy’s Garden;” record-setting gifts in recent past to Lyric Opera of Chicago and Edward-Elmhurst Healthcare 19 Liz Lefkofsky Giving Pledge signer, Co-Founder Lefkofsky Family Foundation; Board member for Teach for America, Museum of Contemporary Art, Ravinia Festival and Human Rights Watch; Founder of the Success Project 20 Rika Mansueto Giving Pledge signer, gave $35 million gift with husband in 2016 to the University of Chicago to found the Mansueto Institute for Urban Innovation, which will address issues such as violence, housing and the well-being of youth 21 Alexandra Nichols Chair of Harris Theater; Board member of the Art Institute of Chicago and WTTW; endowed multiple civic spaces and places in Chicago with her husband 2226 Gigi Pritzker Pucker, Colonel Jennifer Pritzker,

Margot Pritzker, M.K. Pritzker, Penny Pritzker As members of Chicago’s wealthiest family, they support diverse causes, but are all big benefactors to multiple nonprofits.

27 Susan Regenstein Chair of Regenstein Foundation; prodigious donor to Chicago institutions, including recent donations of $10 million to RIC, $10 million to Lurie Children’s Hospital, and at least $45 million to Chicago Botanic Garden 28 Nancy Reinsdorf President of Chicago Bulls Charities, whose fundraising efforts are amplified with additional donations from the McCormick Foundation 29 Shirley Ryan Founder of Pathways; namesake of Shirley Ryan AbilityLab; co-founded Ryan Opera Center at Lyric Opera and Ryan Education Center of the Art Institute of Chicago with husband Pat; endowed multiple facilities at Northwestern University 30 Julia Stasch President of the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation — at $6.3 billion, one of our nation’s largest philanthropic institutions 31 Helen Zell Executive director of Zell Family Foundation; first female Chair of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra Association; Vice-Chair of Chicago Public Education Fund; Trustee of Steppenwolf Theatre Company; Director of Ounce of Prevention and Teach For America Boards Read more at: MAKEITBETTER.NET/TOPPHILANTHROPISTS

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# C LO S I N GT H O U G H T S

2 5

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“We all eat, and it would be a sad waste of opportunity to eat badly.” — ANNA THOMAS

CHECK OUT THESE TASTYGRAMS 1. Afternoon tea at Deer Path Inn by @amberyv.

2. Red currants at the Daley Plaza

Farmers Market by @steffieking917.

3. Homeade kabobs by @bheuer.

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4. Breakfast is served at Dove's Luncheonette by @p.a.maass.

5. Texas Chili Mac at Texican by @dchammond.

6. Variety of donuts from Joe Donut by @lovegriefandwonder.

7. Deviled eggs with caviar, watermelon

pickle and micro greens at 610 Magnolia by @juliechernoff.

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Grand Kremlin Palace

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Trek the Wadi Rum

During a sojourn through the southern Jordan valley, commonly called “Valley of the Moon,” you can venture through the cliffs weathered crimson and black, through the mountainous wilderness to the camp of a local Bedouin tribe.

Most modern residents of Wadi Rum claim a strong Bedouin heritage, and this excursion presents a fascinating opportunity to learn about the traditionally nomadic people.

The Arts During an exclusive, complimenta-

ry Crystal Signature Event offered on all Crystal Bach voyages, guests will be transported to the Royal Concertgebouw in Amsterdam, considered

6

one of the finest concert halls in the world, for a private tour and concert.

Far East Exploration Journey to the Far

East as you explore China and Japan. Experiences include a visit to the Tokaido Hiroshige Art Museum’s exclusive collection of wood-block prints. Stop at Yui Honjin Memorial Hall, the resort home of the late Emperor of the Meiji era, to attend an elaborate tea ceremony in a room used by the early Emperor. Also explore Miho no Matsubara, an ancient pine grove that overlooks the sea. Framed by Mt. Fuji towering in the distance, it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

www.lakeshoretravel.com/specialty-travel | 800.835.5090

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Culinary Journeys

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South & Central America Hike amidst the skyrocketing mountains and deep blue glaciers in Chile’s Patagonia. Cycle along quiet rural roads through Argentina’s spectacular vineyards and fruit orchards at the foothills of the Andes range. Participate in an ancient Inca ritual as you go off the beaten path with Peru’s highland indigenous communities. Spend time with family exploring the rich wildlife native to the Galapagos Islands, encountering species like 100-year-old giant tortoises and blue-footed boobies.

These are only a sampling of tailor-made experiences we offer to help you discover Latin America’s colorful engaging cultures, exotic wildlife, majestic landscapes and genuine traditional hospitality.

Contact a Lake Shore Travel advisor for a hassle-free, satisfying and enriching customized trip & experiential travel experience in South & Central America with Alluring Americas.

800-835-5090

Alluring Americas’ trips are meticulously designed to protect the environment, respect native cultures, benefit local communities and conserve natural resources.

Ask about our complimentary Virtuoso Active and Specialty Catalog

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LAKE SHORE TRAVEL We make a world of difference in the way you experience travel.

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LynchConstructionCorp

Lynch Construction Corp

SERVING CHICAGO, WASHINGTON, D.C. METRO, AND SOUTH FLORIDA

APerryHomes.com︱847.549.0668

WE’RE DREAM BUILDERS From childhood daydreams to more grown-up aspirations for their family, everyone has thought about their dream home. Whether we’re creating something new or improving an existing home, our passion is to learn, understand, and use a family’s dreams as inspiration for every project we do. We enjoy a fun, engaging, and truly custom process together as we identify unique lifestyle needs, family traditions, or those things that “you’ve always wanted.” These personal touches are then seamlessly designed into our projects through the creativity, expertise, and unique perspective of our team. We handle all of the details involved as we design and build a home that is uniquely yours and continue a long-term relationship as we provide lifetime care and maintenance. The consistent result for the families that choose our award-winning firm is an exciting experience that begins with a dream and ends with a dream home.

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DESIGN MEETING

SCHEMATIC DESIGN

THE A. PERRY EXPERIENCE We have designed our process with you in mind. Often, our clients are concerned about budget, so we provide continuous budget updates to reflect the latest discussion or any revisions. There are no surprises. For clients who have a difficult time imagining the finished product, we offer beautiful colored renderings, 3D walkthroughs and full size mock-ups. Improved communication is guaranteed with a simple to use smart phone app that handles every detail of your project. No detail is missed.

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BEFORE

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AFTER

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CLIENT TESTIMONIALS

“We truly enjoy the incredible home delivered to us and had a lot of fun throughout the design and building process. The A. Perry team of professionals incorporated many creative ideas seamlessly into our plan and the building superintendent was wonderful to work with and kept us apprised of everything on site. The options available in home projects are infinite, and we thought the process was going to be overwhelming. But as it turns out, it was nothing but a pleasure and we looked forward to selections meetings. We continue to attend the many charitable events and fun functions they host throughout the year.”

- Mary, New Home Client “I travel internationally for business and often my destinations take me to some beautiful locations. My schedule required that I hire an architect and builder that respected my time, was trustworthy, and had a detailed process. A. Perry was that and more. Of all the beautiful places I travel to, none compares to coming back to my very own A. Perry home.”

- Dave, New Home Client

1220 WASHINGTON AVE, WILMETTE, IL | APERRYHOMES.COM | 847.549.0668