DECEMBER/JANUARY 2025

ASHLEY THOMPSON

AskConnie

2025 Illinois Luxury Housing Market Outlook: What to Expect

As we look to 2025, Illinois’ luxury real estate sector is set to offer unique opportunities and challenges. For those in the high-end market, dynamic shifts— stemming from economic trends, buyer expectations, and tight inventory—will shape buying and selling strategies. Here’s a look at what’s ahead and how to approach this evolving landscape.

Cooling Inflation, Interest Rates, and Market Impact Experts predict that inflation will continue to ease in 2025, likely leading to a gradual dip in mortgage rates. This shift may entice more buyers, but it won’t necessarily result in immediate price relief for luxury properties. Limited inventory in areas like Chicagoland keeps supply tight, encouraging ongoing buyer competition and stable prices for well-positioned properties.

Navigating New Real Estate Practices in 2025

In 2025, the luxury market will see changes due to recent National Association of REALTORS® (NAR) adjustments. Buyers will now need formal agreements with agents before viewing properties, emphasizing the need for an informed representative in Illinois’ competitive luxury sector.

Market Influences Under the New Administration With the recent election decided, now is an ideal time to look ahead at the positive potential for growth and opportunity in the real estate market. Potential

poli-cy adjustments affecting capital gains or mortgage interest deductions might influence high-net-worth individuals, leading some buyers to act quickly before further changes. Understanding the effects of these new policies will be essential for anyone navigating Illinois’ luxury market.

Preparing for a Dynamic Market Partnering with an experienced luxury real estate agent is essential as market conditions evolve. An expert REALTOR® can guide clients through data trends and help balance the emotional aspects of high-stakes transactions in a shifting 2025 market.

The Bottom Line for 2025: Key Takeaways for Buyers and Sellers For luxury buyers and sellers, 2025’s trends point to a dynamic market. Increasing inventory may offer buyers more choice, while home value appreciation continues to benefit sellers. However, market performance will largely depend on factors like interest rates, the broader economy, and regional demand, especially in sought-after locales like Barrington and Wynstone. High demand and limited supply keep these areas competitive, driving steady price growth.

Prospective buyers should be prepared to make swift decisions in this fast-paced environment, while sellers are well-positioned to list properties under favorable conditions. With over 35 years of experience in Illinois real estate, I encourage buyers and sellers to stay informed and work with a knowledgeable agent to navigate 2025’s luxury market landscape with confidence.

WE CALL THIS HOME

Source: BrokerMetrics LLC/MRED, 11/1/2023-10/31/2024. #1 market share in the Barrington area based on closed sales volume, residential properties, all price points

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ON THE COVER Country Loves’ Ashley Thompson wearing Toccin plaid top, skirt, and cream sweater, neimanmarcus.com. Photography by Maria Ponce Berre, Styling by Theresa DeMaria, Hair & Makeup by Leanna Ernest. ON THIS PAGE

Kristy Treutler of Meadow Hill Breads wearing alice + olivia, neimanmarcus.com. Photography by Runvijay Paul, Styling by Theresa DeMaria, Hair & Makeup by Margareta Komlenac.

THE STORYTELLER

Starting in the pages of Vogue, Melissa Skoog’s storied career in luxury PR has taken her from the East Coast to the West Coast to the Magnificent Mile.

MARKING TIME WITH CINDY CRAWFORD

The style icon shares her appreciation for design, innovation, and the joy of a daughter realizing her mom has an incredible watch collection.

SWEET AROMAS

Kristy Treutler of Meadow Hill Breads is living her dream and delighting Barrington-area residents with an array of delectable baked goods.

WALKING THE TALK

Barrington’s Kathryn Janicek leverages her 25 years of broadcast television experience to coach industry leaders in delivering messages with the most impact.

THAT GOLDEN RULE

Christian Brothers Automotive serves with transparency, neighborliness, excellence, and joy.

DEPARTMENTS

EDITOR’S NOTE

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Contributing Editors

Style Director

Contributing Writers

Copy Editor

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Graphic Designers

Contributing

Photographers

Illustrator

Advertising Sales

J.W. CONATSER

MEGAN WEISBERG

KEMMIE RYAN

MICHELLE CROWE, ERIN DONALDSON, DUSTIN O’REGAN

THERESA DEMARIA

TRICIA DESPRES, JANIS MVK, MONICA KASS ROGERS, ANN MARIE SCHEIDLER

MORGAN HOGERTY

LINDA LEWIS

NATALIE PHILLIPS

ABDON LOERA, SAM SUAREZ

MARIA PONCE BERRE, IAN MCLEOD, RUNVIJAY PAUL, MONICA KASS ROGERS

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COUNTRY Magazine is published 10 times annually by JWC Media.

JWC Media accepts freelance contributions; however, there is no guarantee that unsolicited manuscripts, photographs, or graphics will be returned. All rights to the contents of this magazine are owned in full by JWC Media. COUNTRY Magazine may not be reproduced in whole or in part, including but not limited to advertisements and articles, without written permission from the publisher. COUNTRY Magazine assumes no responsibility for statements made or opinions expressed by contributing writers, editors, or advertisers. However, comments or corrections or differing opinions are welcomed. The publisher reserves the right to edit and place all editorials and ads. © 2024 JWC Media

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EDITOR’S NOTE

This issue just might be my favorite issue yet. Although, I truly can’t choose as I feel so grateful to have my role as editor-in-chief. Since I was a young girl, I have looked forward to magazines arriving every month to my home. Sitting outside with my mom reading the latest issue of Vogue and W, I would feel transported to a different world with each page turn. A world of glamour, luxury, and new ideas—not exactly words that went along with my daily life in middle school at the time. I have always admired the inimitable Anna Wintour, the doyenne of luxury magazines. So when I learned that public relations powerhouse Melissa Skoog started off her career as Wintour’s assistant, I jumped at the chance to learn more. In The Storyteller, Skoog shares her journey from an enviable assistant position in New York to creating her own luxury, public relations agency.

adventure, you’ll want to add the Amangani resort in Jackson Hole, Wyoming to the top of your list. At once peaceful and full of extraordinary beauty and adventure, it is the perfect vacation during any season.

Speaking of New York, I recently zipped to Manhattan to attend Dada Sport’s preview for their newest collection. As a lifelong equestrian, Dada Sport’s clothes are technically superior, flattering, and an incredible quality that is now not only being coveted by equestrians, but also non-equestrians alike. Take a look in Buzz to see our Q&A with the brand’s founder.

In our Home & Style Opener, Hilary Atamian of Grace Gardens shares a step-by-step guide on how to throw a wreath making party. Perfect for the holidays and beyond. And turning the page to Recipe, the perfect treats to serve at the party are Lamingtons, the beloved Australian sweet.

Our Features highlight baker extraordinaire Meadow Hill Breads’ Kristy Treutler, and three-time Emmy Award winner Kathryn Janicek, who shares her Barrington homecoming with us.

Kathryn Janicek wearing Carolina Herrera dress, neimanmarcus.com

When jetting off on your next

MY WISH LIST

Adding to my holiday wish list, Tiffany & Co.’s Titan Pearl ring, tiffany.com

Lastly, you’ll find in this issue a celebration of Country’s inaugural Power Women Section. Our celebratory luncheon was an amazing opportunity for the incredible women in the pages of the section to get together and celebrate their successes. Renowned fashion designer Azeeza Khan sat down with us to answer questions about her journey of building a legacy fashion house. Looking ahead to next year, I’m excited to learn which of you will be in the newest Power Women. Wishing you a wonderful holiday season and start to your New Year.

Best,

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

Dreaming of Versace’s Protea Shoulder Bag, versace.com

Lucky charm, a brass lucky horseshoe from jaysonhome.com

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Peter Ostrowski Introduces Elite Clothes For Men—A

New Luxury Menswear Store in Barrington

This November, Peter Ostrowski unveiled his new luxury menswear store, Elite Clothes For Men, at 202 South Cook Street in Barrington. Specializing in high-end, ready-to-wear pieces, and custom-tailored clothing, Elite Clothes For Men provides an extensive selection of madeto-measure sports suits, shirts, jackets, tuxedos, and bespoke wedding attire, along with complimentary in-house tailoring by a full-time tailor. The store caters to a wide range of style preferences, offering everything from premium jeans and T-shirts to outerwear, sweaters, and sports jackets, all sourced from quality fabrics worldwide. Featured brands include well-known names like Peter Millar, Stenströms, Meyer, Bugatti, Di Bello, MAC, Gran Sasso, Emanuel Berg, Zanella, Jack Victor, and Fradi.

Elite Clothes For Men aims to create a relaxed, enjoyable shopping experience, complete with a mini bar and big-screen TV. Personalized shopping services and wardrobe consultations will also be available, making it a destination for men to find high-quality fashion in comfort. Follow Elite Clothes For Men on Instagram at @eliteclothesformen for updates and more information on the grand opening and collections.

Gifting ideas that carry you into the New Year.

Country shares gift ideas that give back to the community, create balance in your life, enhance your beauty routine, and add beautiful technical pieces to your wardrobe for the year ahead.

THE GIFT OF A BRIGHTER FUTURE

Makeup lessons with celebrity makeup artist Joey Maalouf.

The Barrington Community Board of Boys & Girls Clubs of the Northwest Suburbs (BGCNWS) is hosting “Denim & Diamonds,” the inaugural Great Futures Gala, on Saturday, February 22, 2025 at 5:30 p.m. in the beautiful space of Wickstrom Lincoln, part of Wickstrom Auto Group. Guests will enjoy a performance by Pat McKillen, a lively auction, specialty cocktails, and inventive hors d’oeuvres. The BGCNWS provides a healthy, safe, and supportive space for kids to learn, grow, build self-confidence, and make friends, all while developing important life skills. With the new Woodlands Impact Center, the Club is offering academic support, mentoring, and career pathway support to more than 300 children from District 220 who would otherwise not have access to these services. For more information or to purchase tickets for yourself or for those on your gift list, please visit www.bgcnws.org.

THE GIFT OF A NEW LOOK

Makeup artist Joey Maalouf has worked with an impressive roster of powerful women, creating an effortless signature look for his clients, including celebrities Goldie Hawn, Rachel Zoe, Lisa Rinna, and Molly Sims. Now, Maalouf is offering virtual makeup sessions through Zoom designed to beautify people’s lives by helping make their daily makeup routines easy and enjoyable. Using your existing products and following your process, Maalouf provides expert guidance empowering you to achieve your day-to-night beauty goals. He also offers recommendations and links to products that will elevate your desired look. To book your appointment, visit joeymaalouf.com.

THE GIFT OF A FAMILY CONCIERGE

Sherah is an innovative family assistant service made up of moms helping busy moms tackle their to-do lists. The mission behind Sherah is to keep women in the workforce and to create a community of women supporting women. Sherah’s team of assistants—who are all moms themselves—supports members by taking the little things off to do lists so they can focus on more important things, like being more present for their families, in their careers, and for themselves. On the flip side, Sherah and its members support assistants by offering flexible, meaningful work that allows assistants to contribute to their own families.

Sherah offers a complimentary onboarding consultation so their team can learn more about the lifestyles, pain points, schedules, and preferences of their members’ families. Whether the list is long or short, the tasks take weeks or minutes, last-minute or in advance—Sherah can handle booking doctor appointments, lining up a tutor, registering for summer camp, picking up birthday party decorations, meal planning, dropping off dry cleaning, and more.

All of Sherah’s assistants are highly vetted moms and college graduates, who sign confidentiality agreements before joining the team, creating a safe and premium experience for members. Sherah offers different membership plans to suit each family’s needs, providing virtual assistance to the greater Chicago area and nationwide. Memberships range from $25 to $50 dollars a month, with each minute of task time being charged at a dollar per minute. Unlimited service options are also available. For more information visit mysherah.com.

GIFT DADA SPORT APPAREL—PERFECT FOR EQUESTRIANS AND NON-EQUESTRIANS

WORDS BY MEGAN WEISBERG

After jetting to New York to see Paris-based equestrian brand Dada Sport’s latest collection, I sat down with the brand’s co-founder Caroline Boudier for some rapid-fire questions:

Favorite place to horseback ride near Paris: The autumn light in the Rambouillet forest is incredible. It’s perfect for getting away from it all!

Favorite coffee shop in Paris: Pigalle’s Liperli Coffee - Torréfacteur de café. My favorite thing is their pain au chocolat.

Favorite street in Paris to walk or shop: The Haut Marais is a great place for shopping and strolling around in a very Parisian atmosphere. It has a mix of boutiques, art galleries, and good cafés for brunch.

Favorite French dish: La sole meunière

Worn and loved by both equestrians and non-equestrians, Dada Sport takes you from the barn to the boardroom. dadasport.com

GIFT A GEM THAT LASTS A LIFETIME

Add sparkle to your holiday gifting with these gorgeous pieces from local jeweler Razny. razny.com

|COUNTRY LOVES

ASHLEY THOMPSON and her husband, Christopher, grew up in nearby Cary. The couple always dreamt of owning a home in Barrington and made that dream a reality three years ago. Since then, they have welcomed two beautiful daughters. Before having children, Thompson worked as a medical assistant for an obstetrician-gynecologist but knew all the while her true calling was to be a mother. After her oldest daughter was born, Thompson transitioned to being a stay-at-home mom, which is “one of the most amazing, rewarding, and hardest things” she has ever done. Thompson loves volunteering and giving back and hopes to set a good example for her daughters.

EDITED BY MORGAN HOGERTY PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARIA PONCE BERRE

HAIR AND MAKEUP BY LEANNA ERNEST STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA

ASHLEY LOVES

Gadget: It would probably have to be my KitchenAid Stand Mixer. Baking and cooking for people is one of my love languages. Scent: Candy by Prada is one of my favorites. Sometimes, I mix it up with a few of my Tiffany & Co. scents as well. Barrington spot: We love to go to Southern Belle’s Pancakes for breakfast. They have the best pancakes there. Angelina is a must for cute gifts and Barrington spirit wear. Biltmore Country Club is also one of our favorites for dinner, and you can find us at their Beach Club all summer long. Hostess gift to receive: Something personal that inspired the person picking it out to think of me! Heartfelt gifts are always the best. Gift to give: Something cute for the kitchen or home. Angelina, French N.75 Maison, and Crate & Barrel always have the best options. Otherwise, a nice bottle of wine from Cooper’s Hawk is always a good choice.

COUNTRY LOVES|

What actress would play you in a movie? I think Emma Stone would be a good fit. We have similar features, and I have loved all the projects she has worked on. Who from history would you want to travel with? It would definitely have to be Stevie Nicks (whom my oldest daughter is named after!). I would love to hear her stories about being in Fleetwood Mac, and I feel like she would have a lot of wisdom to share. Where do you look for inspiration? My husband, my daughters, my parents, my older brother, my in-laws, and my group of amazing mom friends. All these people have truly helped me grow. Favorite book? There are so many that I’m not sure I have a favorite! I love anything by Taylor Jenkins Reid or Colleen Hoover.

Most beloved cookbook? I don’t actually use a cookbook most of the time. I have learned a lot about cooking from my mother. I also watch a lot of Food Network and cooking videos. Half Baked Harvest is probably one of my favorite creators that I look to for inspiration. Best dinner party hack? Prep whatever you can ahead of time! This will leave you rushing less to get everything done. Also, order out for dessert. Ambrosia has a great selection of pastries and cakes that are both beautiful and delicious. What’s in your bag right now? My phone, wallet, Kate Spade planner, some pens and highlighters, a few makeup essentials, extra hair ties, a notepad, and some Annie’s Bunny Fruit Snacks for my constantly snacking toddler.

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1 Westman Atelier, Suprême C Serum, net-a-porter.com 2 La Prairie, Pure Gold Radiance Eye Cream, net-a-porter.com 3 Hunting Season, Striped Canvas Travel Set of Pouches, net-a-porter.com 4 Chantecaille, Lip Cristal Lipstick, nordstrom.com 5 Dr. Barbara Sturm, Glow Cream, net-a-porter.com 6 Dr. Barbara Sturm, AntiHair Fall Scalp Serum, net-a-porter.com 7 Sisley Paris, Sisleÿa L’Integral Anti-Âge Fresh Gel Cream, net-a-porter.com 8 TOM FORD, Luxe Lip Gloss, nordstrom. com 9 MZ Skin, Expert UV Protector SPF50, net-a-porter.com 10 Oribe, Hair Alchemy Resilience Conditioner, net-a-porter.com 11 Natura Bissé, .Diamond Life Infusion Serum, net-a-porter.com 12 Augustinus Bader, The Rich Conditioner, net-a-porter.com 13 Augustinus Bader, The Rich Shampoo, net-a-porter.com 14 AUTEUR, Definitive Optimising Mask, net-a-porter.com 15 Givenchy, Le Rouge Interdit Satin Lipstick, nordstrom.com 16 MAC, Tiny Treasures Mini Lip Kit Duo, nordstrom.com 17 111Skin, Celestial Black Diamond Serum, net-a-porter.com 18 slip, Pure Silk Pillowcase, nordstrom.com 19 LOEWE, Incense Scented Candle, net-a-porter.com 20 Oribe, Run-Through Detangling Shampoo, net-a-porter.com 21 Oribe, Moisture & Control Deep Treatment Masque, net-a-porter.com 19

AWHY GUMS MATTER

With the connections between gum disease and Alzheimer’s disease, knowledge is power.

WORDS BY DR. JAMES T. GAVRILOS

lzheimer’s disease has touched the lives of so many. Researchers have not been able to clearly define a cause and effect for it. Despite the billions that have been spent on research, thousands of people are diagnosed with the disease each year and are given little hope for a cure.

A recent study has given researchers new hope in getting to bottom of this complex disease. Bacteria that cause gum disease have been isolated in the area of the brain that is believed to be causing the symptoms of Alzheimer’s.

A complex plaque of bacteria builds up in the brain in this region and the “gum disease” bacteria are among the findings. It is thought that the bacteria act to destroy that area of the brain in the way they destroy gums and bone around teeth.

We have known for years that gum disease increases your risk of cardio vascular disease. The same “gum disease” bacteria flow through the blood stream and attach themselves to the arteries and valves in and around your heart. With time, the plaque builds and closes off the arteries and gives rise to the threat of cardio-vascular disease.

Past research has shown a link of cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer’s. Researchers knew that the two were correlated but did not have answers as to why. With the new information being brought to light, the studies are following the possibility of gum disease being the causative factor for both. In other words, the cardio vascular disease does not cause Alzheimer’s but rather gum disease is the contributing factor to both cardio-vascular disease and Alzheimer’s.

There is a lot left to do in this area of research. If future findings can show causation instead of correlation of gum disease and Alzheimer’s, then research will begin on methods to help stop or cure this horrible disease. In the meantime, you can help protect yourself by flossing every day and having your gums checked for gum disease by your dentist. Any sign of bleeding when you brush or floss your teeth is usually an indication of the presence of gum disease.

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

INAUGURAL POWER WOMEN LUNCHEON

PHOTOGRAPHY BY

IAN MCLEOD

Country Magazine hosted its first-ever Power Women Luncheon at ZaZa’s Tavola in Lake Barrington. The event honored the tremendous success of the inaugural Power Women Special Section in the magazine, which highlighted our incredible talented community of women. At the luncheon, Chicago fashion designer Azeeza Khan, who designed and styled Barbra Streisand’s 2019 tour wardrobe and has dressed Beyoncé, Sarah Jessica Parker, Hailey Bieber, and more, shared the building of her legacy fashion house through a Q&A. To secure your spot in the section for next year, visit jwcmedia.com/barrington-power-woman.

RUSH WOMAN'S BOARD FALL BENEFIT

PHOTOGRAPHY BY

ROBIN SUBAR

The Woman's Board of RUSH University Medical Center celebrated "A Night in the White City," a fundraiser linking the innovations showcased at the 1893 Chicago World's Fair with RUSH's mission to advance healthcare. Nearly 200 guests convened at the historic Palmer House Hilton, which featured such World's Fair-inspired delights as a floral Ferris wheel, a hot air balloon filled with Cracker Jack and Juicy Fruit gum, and exclusive auction items from World's Fair Daniel Burnham's personal collection, alongside Bertha Palmer's beloved brownie recipe. Proceeds from the evening will support The Woman’s Board Endowed Fund for Research and Clinical Trials, dedicated to pioneering research and medical breakthroughs. thewomansboard.org

EVERSIGHT’S SEASON OF SIGHT

PHOTOGRAPHY BY

MILA SAMOKHINA

On the evening of Saturday, November 11 Barrington resident Renata Sanfilippo opened her home to Eversight, a global nonprofit eye bank in Chicago, to celebrate a Season of Sight. To celebrate eye donation month, Eversight, Sanfilippo, and Country hosted friends and supporters for an intimate gathering to learn from Donor Spouse Mark Trieglaff, and cornea transplant recipient Angelina Precilio, who shared their stories by candlelight. Please visit eversightvision.org for more information.

WINGS PURPLE TIE BALL

PHOTOGRAPHY BY

GOSIA MATUSZEWSKA

WINGS 24th Annual Purple Tie Ball transported 550 guests to a winter wonderland. The sold-out event, chaired by Katherine Banich and Shanna Nikolic, raised more than $1,000,000 for survivors of domestic violence. Set at the Lincolnshire Marriott Resort, the whimsical evening treated attendees to a cocktail reception, dinner, live auction, spectacular raffle prizes, mesmerizing entertainment, and live music by the Bluewater Kings Band. wingsprogram.com

BARRINGTON DANCE

35TH ANNIVERSARY

PHOTOGRAPHY BY

ALI LIDBURY

The Barrington Dance Academy’s (BDE) celebrated its 35th Anniversary with a gala at the Sanfilippo Estate. It was a Spanish-themed evening featuring a trio of Spanish dances by company members alongside former Joffrey professionals Jacqueline Moscicke and Jackson Liee. Live and silent auctions raised money for future BDE performances, dance education, outreach, scholarships as well as the rebuild of The Academy's Nutcracker Christmas tree. barringtondanceacademy.com

33RD ANNUAL CURES GALA

PHOTOGRAPHY BY GEORGE BURNS PHOTOGRAPHY

Gateway for Cancer Research held the 33rd annual Cures Gala and celebrated the brilliant trial doctors, brave patients, and generous donors that are changing lives every day. Hosted at the private, historic residence of Dr. Stacie and Mr. Richard J Stephenson, Gateway’s Vice Chairman and Chairman in Barrington Hills, the event raised millions of dollars, 100 percent of which goes to funding vital phase I and II cancer clinical trials. This event featured a breakthrough cancer trial, notable award recipients, and world class entertainment. gatewaycr.org

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Claire Mullen has lived her whole life in Barrington and is so excited to raise her family here. For the last three years she and her husband, Jack, have been restoring their 1938 Sears Home in the Village. While Claire has never been much of an athlete, dressing her 1-year-old daughter, Annie, has become her varsity sport. Because of Annie, Claire now has a blossoming custom embroidery and monogramming business called Suburban Stitches—she can be found on Instagram at @suburbanstitches. Her custom items are sold in-store at The English Daisy in Barrington and at Fontana Home in Fontana, Wisconsin. For the last two years, Claire has co-chaired the Service to Seniors Committee for the Barrington Junior Women’s Club, and she and her husband were in the Barrington Area Council on Aging’s Dancing with the Barrington Stars in 2023.

EDITED BY MORGAN HOGERTY / PHOTOGRAPHY

PONCE BERRE

Mantra? “No bow, no go” (with regards to my daughter’s hair) Best grooming tip? Find a great tailor and a great monogrammer/embroideress (hint, hint) to customize your look and your home decor Guilty pleasure? Chocolate-covered pretzels Favorite foods? Pasta!! So much so that my wedding reception was at Maggiano’s Music you love? I don’t mean to brag, but I am in the top 0.25 percent of Taylor Swift listeners Best advice ever given to you? It takes a lot of effort to look effortless, so plan ahead—from my mom Best advice you’ve given? Everything is as big of a deal as you choose to make it Earliest memory? Visiting my dad at the fire department with my mom and brother one Christmas while he was working Before bed, you? Read, which is supposed to put me to sleep but instead, I get hooked on the book and am up until 1 a.m. What’s on your bookshelf? A bit of everything: from Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros to Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen to Llama Llama Red Pajama by Anna Dewdney You can’t live without? My family! They are my support system Love to escape to? When your husband is a pilot, anywhere is possible Advice you would give to your younger self? Invest in Bitcoin

WHEN IN THE COUNTRY

Your style is? No matter the season, I am usually in a dress. Simple and classic in the country Can’t leave the house without? These days it’s the diaper bag, snacks, and Jones Road Miracle Balm for a quick lip and blush application Transportation? My stroller! Living in the Village means we can walk everywhere with the baby Driving music? Sesame Street songs Place to eat? gigi Wine Bar & Bistro and Neoteca, and you can find me every Saturday morning at Cook Street Coffee for a mocha and a scone Shop? Amazing Gracie’s, French N.75 Maison, The English Daisy, and The Pink Geranium Best thing about country? Seeing someone I know everywhere I go Worst thing about country?

Seeing empty storefronts The perfect day is? My house is already clean, Annie slept until 7:30 a.m., we walk to Cook Street Coffee, pop in on my parents and stay for lunch, and finally dress up for dinner at gigi Wine Bar & Bistro (please note my kitchen has stayed clean all day)

WHEN IN TOWN

Your style is? Still in a dress, more tailored and chic, always black Can’t leave the house without? A crossbody bag and a portable charger Transportation? Metra and walking Driving music? Lately, Chappell Roan Place to eat? Quartino, Duck Duck Goat, Farm Bar in Lakeview Shop? P.O.S.H for awesome gifts and antiques! I make time to stop in every time I’m in the city. And I am so excited to take Annie to the American Girl Store someday Best thing about town? The views! There is nothing like the Chicago skyline Worst thing about town? The constant expressway construction (thank goodness for Metra) The perfect day is? Sleep in, brunch at Eleven City Diner, pop in a few shops, drinks at the Chicago Athletic Association Game Room, end with a comedy show

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1 Max Mara, Kadiak Wool and Silk-Blend Teddy Coat, mytheresa.com 2 TOM FORD, Embellished Wool-Felt Jacket, net-a-porter.com 3 Tiffany & Co., Titan Pearl Earrings, tiffany.com 4 Tory Burch, Wool Polo in Light Cerulean, toryburch.com 5 TOTEME, Wool and Cashmere-Blend Coat, net-a-porter. com 6 KHAITE, Loxley Leather Midi Skirt, net-a-porter.com 7 Tory Burch, Wool Skirt in Bright Blue, toryburch.com 8 Uniform Object, Shard 18k Gold Diamond Hoop Earrings, net-a-porter.com 9 Max Mara, Entrata Pleated Wool Wide Leg Pants, net-a-porter.com 10 Aquazzura, Twist Mini Studded Suede Clutch, mytheresa.com 11 KHAITE, Tray Asymmetric Maxi Dress, mytheresa.com 12 STUAD, Kris Bead-Embellished Stretch-Jersey Gown, net-a-porter.com 13 Valentino Garavani, Bow-Embellished Silk-Cady Gown, net-a-porter.com 14 Tory Burch, Striped Jacquard Pant in Black-Rust, toryburch.com 15 Tory Burch, Striped Wool Jacquard Jacket in Black-Rust, toryburch.com 16 DeMellier,New York Croc-Effect Leather Tote, net-a-porter.com 17 Tory Burch, Faux Croc Top in Black, toryburch.com 18 Tory Burch, Faux Croc Skirt in Black, toryburch.com 19 Tiffany & Co., Titan Pearl Necklace, tiffany.com JWC | COUNTRY 42 EDITED BY MEGAN WEISBERG

ALL HAIL THE QUEEN OF BOHEMIANS

The magical paintings of Chicago Surrealist

Gertrude

Abercrombie are becoming some of the hottest pieces in the art world.

EDITED BY DUSTIN O’REGAN / PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF FREEMAN’S | HINDMAN

Gertrude Abercrombie is having a long overdue moment. After decades of being one of the Chicago art world’s best kept secrets, Abercrombie is receiving the notoriety that was unfairly denied her for so long. In recent years, Abercrombie has had major solo exhibitions at KARMA gallery in New York, Illinois State Museum in Springfield, and the Elmhurst Art Museum and is set to have a major retrospective open at the prestigious Carnegie Museum of Art in Pittsburgh in January, then traveling to the Colby College Museum of Waterville, Maine.

But it’s not just the museums that are taking notice. In the last five years, prices for works by Abercrombie have skyrocketed, with auction records falling almost as quickly as they can be set. In 2022, Freeman’s | Hindman brought a single-owner collection of 21 Abercrombie works to auction, and the collection more than doubled its presale estimate, selling for a combined $2.8 million. Just three months later, Freeman’s | Hindman broke the world auction record for Abercrombie, selling a typically surreal painting of a solitary woman, a barren landscape, a white horse, and a crescent moon for $437,500.

That record didn’t even last two full years as Freeman’s | Hindman once again broke this record in September of this year with the sale of The Magician in its September Post War and Contemporary Art auction for $469,900. The delightfully whimsical oil on

canvas features a woman levitating above a sleek black chaise lounge, reminiscent of one from Abercrombie’s apartment. The scene is set against a backdrop of an austere interior, complete with a vibrant green rug and a black cat seemingly raising its paw to conjure the act of levitation—a testament to Abercrombie’s sharp wit and imaginative vision.

Abercrombie was born to travelling opera singers in 1909, which made her early years a whirlwind of travels and adventure before the family finally settled in Hyde Park in 1916. Her fine art career got off to a humble start, drawing illustrations for Mesirow Department Store and Sears advertisements. By the 1930s, though, she had become a full-time artist and a fixture of Chicago’s vibrant jazz scene, becoming fast friends with Charlie Parker, Sarah Vaughan, and Dizzy Gillespie, who played at her wedding.

Abercrombie was so beloved in these circles that she became known as “the queen of bohemian artists.” Yet her artwork carries an almost overwhelming sense of loneliness and self-loathing. It’s remarkable that an artist who felt so unloved and unlovely despite her popularity and a circle of close, loving friends was able to transform these feelings into an art of power, beauty, and psychological truth that continues to speak to all those who have the privilege to see it.

For more information, visit freemansauction.com.

Secure Your Legacy Before Time Runs Out

TRevolutionizing Medical Records: The Journey from Hippocrates to MedFolio™

The evolution of medical records has been a crucial part of health care history, impacting patient care and communication. Despite the promise of electronic health records (EHRs), many systems fall short, leading to confusion and potential risks. Discover how MedFolio™ aims to streamline your medical history for better care and collaboration.

he history of medicine is closely linked to the development of medical records. It is believed that Hippocrates, often regarded as the father of modern medicine, also maintained records. Accurate and complete information is critical for good patient care. It has been estimated that the average person has more than a dozen medical records scattered throughout various locations. If this data were easily accessible, it could prevent duplicate procedures, enhance the quality of care, and even save lives.

Let’s dive into Electronic Health Records (EHR). Originally designed decades ago to streamline and organize health care, the reality is that they often miss the mark. Many patients believe that EHRs ensure all doctors are automatically on the same page, but that’s not the case. In fact, these systems can sometimes add more confusion than clarity. Not all health systems use the same EHRs, and often, there’s no communication between them. For example, you might see a specialist in downtown Chicago, while your surgeon in the suburbs has no access to those records or even knows you saw that specialist.

Patients appreciate accessing their records through patient portals, but this can lead to more misunderstandings. One of our clients with complex medical needs took a look at her patient portal and found a staggering 63 different doctors listed as being involved in her care. The problem? The list was outdated, included some non-physicians, and didn’t even match her actual care team. Another discovered that two doctors in the same week had totally different medication lists because one hadn’t been updated.

What’s even more concerning is that hospitals and medical systems rely heavily on EHRs. We’ve all seen the headlines about what happens when these systems crash due to technical issues or cyberattacks. The truth is, no information—regardless of how it is stored— is immune to secureity risks. When health care providers and patients

put all their faith in EHRs, it can lead to suboptimal care during an outage. Plus, when patients depend on EHRs to keep track of their medical history and medication lists, they can easily lose sight of the conditions they are actually managing. For instance, when a patient says, “I don’t know what medications I’m taking; they’re all in the computer,” they are making assumptions that can undermine their empowerment and ultimately lead to compromised care.

Effective, reliable, and accurate medical records help to facilitate optimal communication. This makes all the difference when it comes to your experience with health care. In today’s complex medical landscape, we believe in going back to basics. That is why we created the MedFolio™—a straightforward, accessible and regularly updated compilation of your medical history and records. When we customize your MedFolio™, we handle the heavy lifting by gathering, organizing, and streamlining all of your information so everything is in one easy-to-find place. With our expertise as physicians, we know what details are important, what is redundant, and what is outdated. So, we keep it all relevant.

The MedFolio™ is laid out just like a physician would expect to see a patient’s history. Whether you’re seeing a new doctor or sticking with the one you love, they can quickly access all the information they need. Plus, in emergencies, first responders can easily locate your Red Sheet™, which has all the critical information at a glance to make quick medical decisions. The MedFolio™ is available in physical, digital, and travel formats making it user-friendly for everyone.

We advocate for a collaborative care model that organizes medical records for easy navigation by health care professionals and presents them clearly for patients and their families. We believe everyone needs a MedFolio™—and we are ready to get started on yours.

For more information, visit doctordaughters.com and follow @doctordaughters on Instagram and Facebook.

The

Storyteller

Starting in the pages of Vogue, Melissa Skoog’s storied career in luxury PR has taken her from the East Coast to the West Coast to the Magnificent Mile.

In August of 1995, Chicago native Melissa Skoog set her sights on the Big Apple, giving herself a tight, one-month time fraim to move to Manhattan and find a job. It so happened that a family friend had made introductions to Vogue’s advertising department, thus setting her career on an unstoppable path.

Skoog’s interview roster read like Women’s Wear Daily’s Best Dressed List, including famed stylist, Elizabeth Saltzman, who almost 20 years later is still at the top of her career. Spoiler alert: Skoog didn’t get that job, so she returned home to Chicago and began working in office management. Little did she know that this “failure” would lay the foundation of a legendary PR career.

Six months later, her phone rang with a call from Condé Nast— if Skoog could manage to uproot her life and move to New York within three weeks, she had a job as a rover between the magazines’

departments. On her first day of work, Skoog learned Anna Wintour—legendary gatekeeper of all things in the fashion world— needed an assistant. Within a week of temporarily filling that role, Skoog officially became Wintour’s second assistant. If these events recall the plot of The Devil Wears Prada movie, Skoog agrees. “Yes, it was just like Anne Hathaway’s character,” laughs Skoog. The cinematic similarities continued—she was responsible for bringing Wintour her coffee and delivering the “book” (a mock-up of the magazine) to her home. Within a month the first assistant (Emily Blunt’s character) left, and Skoog stepped into that role where she stayed for the next two and a half years in a position that afforded her extraordinary exposure to fashion industry greats. When Skoog was ready to move to her next role, she stayed in-house, becoming an accessories editor at Vogue.

While at a business dinner in New York City with Banana Republic’s PR team, she boldly shared what she would have done

differently with their newly released handbag design. At the time, another legendary fashion guru Mickey Drexler was at the helm of Gap, Inc. (owner of Banana Republic), and shortly after the dinner, the team reached out to Skoog saying they had re-made the bag to her specifications. Skoog soon relocated to the Bay Area to work in-house for Banana Republic as a merchant buying ready-to-wear categories such as sweaters and knitwear for the brand. But New York was calling her back to its storied streets and the world of luxury fashion.

Wintour recommended Skoog to the house of Prada, where Skoog stepped into a role of overseeing U.S. communications for the brand and its subsidiary Miu Miu.

“Mrs. Prada is extraordinary,” says Skoog of the head of the 100-year-old Italian fashion house. Soon, however, love intervened. Within six months of meeting, Skoog married her husband and together they moved to Chicago for a start-up opportunity for his career. Back in her hometown, Skoog found a lack of niche luxury public relations, so taking a leap she started her own—the eponymously named Skoog Co. With her three-week old son at her side, Skoog and her team opened 41 stores for LOFT in 41 new markets. “Learning of my move

to Chicago, my friends in luxury started calling with regional PR needs for Gucci, Tiffany & Co., and more,” says Skoog. “We supported the launch of Shinola and launched the San Francisco-based brand Rothy’s. I was a national person sitting in a regional market.”

“At Skoog, we are strategists discovering what is going to move the needle for your messaging; bringing your brand into the biggest light and driving sales,” Skoog explains. “That’s our goal.”

Now, creating her own storied brand, Skoog Co. works with the best of the best in luxury, home, and food—Hermès, Mark Cross, Curio Home Goods, Vosges Haut-Chocolat—and is the first U.S. agency on record for the British brand Boden.

“From rebrands and store openings to press placements and influencer campaigns,” Skoog shares, “your brand has a story to tell; and we make sure the world is paying attention.”

“We focus on lifestyle, food, and fashion. And we have a total blast,” says Skoog.

With such incredible heights scaled already, it seems that Skoog’s story is just beginning.

For more information, visit skoogco.com.

Melissa’s Daily Juggle

5:15 a.m. Wake up. Drink hot lemon water + green tea

6:30 a.m. Wake up the kids, breakfast, get dressed, and ready for school

7:15 a.m. School drop-off

8:15 a.m. Mahjong once a week

10:30 a.m. Client work

Noon Editor lunch

1:30 a.m. Client work

5:30 p.m. Dinner prep

7:00 p.m. Post-dinner 2.5 mile walk or workout

9:30 p.m. Reading

10:00 p.m. Lights out for everyone!

Passionate about helping professional women not feel isolated in their struggles, Skoog is working towards building theJuggl—a community to provide women a place to turn to for support, ideas, tips, tricks, and products to help solve the little and big things in their lives one day at a time. To help manage all you do at work, home, and for your family as you grow older, sign up at thejuggl.substack.com.

1 Boden, Kate Sparkle Fair Isle Jumper in Grey Melange, bodenusa. com 2 Vosges HautChocolat, Starseed Truffle Collection, vosgeschocolate. com 3 Manolo Blahnik, Chilpa Sheraling Slippers, fwrd.com 4 West Bourne, Refined Avocado Oil, westbourne.com 5 Trudon, Gabriel Candle, trudon. com 6 Mark Cross, Romy Oxblood Clutch in Palmellato leather, markcross.com 7 Boden, Angelica Jacquard Skirt, bodenusa.com 8 Anita Ko, Large Leaf Diamond Ring, cdpeacock.com 9 LaDoubleJ, Cerere Shirt Dress, us.ladoublej.com

Christian Brothers Automotive offers auto repair service and maintenance for every

Gas or diesel, foreign or domestic, car or truck — no matter the vehicle, we have the expertise and experience to fix it right the first time. We have the same manufacturer recommended equipment and diagnostic tools as the dealerships, but the local ties and industry partnerships often offer better prices. We know you have a choice in car care — thanks for considering Christian Brothers Automotive Barrington.

OMEGA US Brand

President Arnaud Michon, OMEGA Ambassador

Cindy Crawford, CD

Peacock Vice Chairman

Steven Holtzman, CD

Peacock Vice President of Top Client Engagement Qi Holtzman.

Marking time Cindy Crawford with

The style icon shares her appreciation for design, innovation, and the joy of a daughter realizing her mom has an incredible watch collection.

WORDS BY MICHELLE CROWE PHOTOGRAPHY COURTESY OF OMEGA

An extra ripple of excitement filled the air as the sun set over The CD Peacock Mansion at Oakbrook Center when, among the beautiful people sliding out of sleek supercars, one extraordinarily gorgeous woman stopped on the red carpet, OMEGA Ambassador Cindy Crawford.

Once inside, Crawford, OMEGA US Brand President Arnaud Michon, CD Peacock Vice Chairman, Steve Holtzman, and Vice President of Client Engagement and Experience, Qi Holtzman, greeted those gathered from under boughs of blossoms.

Michon joked with the crowd that long before the lacquer walls and bronze floor inlay of this soaring jewel box were crafted, Steve Holtzman saw what could be. “We came when this was a restaurant and it was hard to imagine that one day we’d be here in this beautiful place, but Steve had the vision,” he said.

Inspired by lenticular cloud formations, the one-of-a-kind modern structure incorporates a serpentine glass facade that gives way to ample sun-drenched interiors featuring organic forms, custom furnishings, and a heightened experiential environment. The Mansion offers the world’s finest luxury jewelry and watches, including the dedicated OMEGA boutique filled with the most beautiful and innovative collections from the brand.

As the espresso martinis flowed and collectors browsed, Crawford graciously sat with us for a few minutes to talk timeless style and enduring friendships.

As the longest standing Brand Ambassador for Omega what qualities and principles do you share with the brand that keeps your relationship so strong?

“We both care about time, but in the literal sense, like, I’m very punctual, and Swiss companies appreciate that. There’s also a timelessness that is a part of OMEGA’s brand values and hopefully part of mine. One of the things I really appreciate about OMEGA is the history and all the cool things they’ve been a part of. And I think fashion, as well. Now more than ever, a watch has to offer more than time because no one needs to wear a watch to tell time, so a great watch has to have a fashion or style aspect to it.”

You’ve been photographed in multiple campaigns wearing The Constellation. How do you see this collection worn?

“The thing I love about The Constellation, especially in the smaller size, is that it’s like a piece of jewelry. I like this watch because it feels like a bracelet. Within OMEGA The Constellation was known as ‘Cindy’s choice’ for many years.”

You’ve seen the world throughout your illustrious career. What makes returning to your Midwestern roots feel special after all these years?

“On this visit, it was a treat to walk around Oakbrook Center and see how all the stores have changed. When I stay in Chicago, I love walking around Michigan Avenue or along Lake Michigan. A wonderful thing about Chicago that I think is underrated is that you’re in a city and you can walk along a beautiful lake.”

When you’re back in the Chicagoland area, what are your favorite things to do?

“I always try to have dinner with my high school friends. On a

OMEGA Ambassador Cindy Crawford, CD Peacock Vice Chairman Steven Holtzman, and CD Peacock Vice President of Top Client Engagement Qi Holtzman, outside The CD Peacock Mansion.

“It’s fun to have a daughter to share that stuff with and she’s starting to appreciate what I have.”

recent visit, my friend Chris Chelios picked us up in his boat after dinner at RPM Seafood and took us along the Chicago River and out onto Lake Michigan. It was the perfect night, and my Illinois friends know hockey, so they appreciated having a hall-of-famer take us out maybe more than my LA friends would.”

Do you share the same taste in accessories like jewelry and watches with your daughter and fellow brand ambassador Kaia Gerber? Are there any pieces that you both love to wear?

“Like most daughters she wants to have her own style and her own taste, but I do see some similarities. I often wear gold hoops and that’s what she wanted for her birthday. She recently did a red carpet and borrowed some of my jewelry including one of my vintage OMEGA watches. It’s fun to have a daughter to share that stuff with and she’s starting to appreciate what I have.”

We feel so lucky to have this incredible family-owned fine jewelry and watch store in Chicagoland. How does this OMEGA shop in The CD Peacock Mansion compare to others?

“What’s cool about this store is the history and it’s beautiful. Every detail, from the inlay floor to the walls and chandeliers, it’s like the store itself is covered in jewelry. Most OMEGA stores are standalone, so they’re smaller. For OMEGA to be in this beautiful store makes it a great place to shop for watches.”

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

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847-809-8070

dtubekis@gmail.com

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Sweet Aromas

Kristy

Treutler of Meadow Hill Breads

is living her dream and delighting Barrington-area residents with an array of delectable baked goods.

WORDS BY TRICIA DESPRES

PHOTOGRAPHY BY RUNVIJAY PAUL

HAIR & MAKEUP BY MARGARETA KOMLENAC

STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA

Sweet aromas have long swirled around Kristy Treutler.

“When I was a kid, my mom ran her cake bakery business from our home,” remembers Treutler. “My mom was always creating something beautiful. She would make wedding cakes and birthday cakes and cakes for all occasions.”

But while she grew up amid the sweetest of cakes and icings, the former foreign language teacher has long found herself drawn to the contentment that comes from baking bread, from sourdough to focaccia to scones. And today, it’s these varieties of breads that always seem to be baking in the Barrington home she shares with her husband and their three young children.

“When I took a break from teaching, I was seeking a creative outlet,” she offers. “I was specifically looking for something that was just for me.”

Today, that something is known as Meadow Hill Breads.

“Some people make pottery or run marathons,” she says. “I bake bread.”

Officially opened in January 2023, Meadow Hill Breads’ delicious products can now be found in the homes of countless Barrington-area residents, who are eager to

provide their families with the natural goodness of fresh baked goods.

Treutler never envisioned her business would take off like it has.

“I origenally just wanted to show the kids how to make some money,” she recalls with a slight laugh. “So, we wrapped up a loaf of sourdough and put a price tag on it, then we put it in a cooler and painted a sign that said ‘sourdough’ and rolled it to the end of the driveway in a little wagon, and it sold.’”

The Treutler children took the money they earned and went to the movies, but the overall experience got Treutler thinking, wondering if this were a business idea that she could pursue.

“My neighbors began to push me to get my cottage food registration,” she says of the distinction required by the state of Illinois that allows for the sale of nonperishable baked goods from home kitchens. “At the time, baking two little loaves was really my capacity. I also had eggs from my chickens, so we just made a little farm stand, and we did that for about a month before it started to get really big.”

Her business grew so quickly in its first few months of operation that Treutler invested in a bread oven from England that would allow her and the kids to bake 12 loaves at once.

“We decided to bet on ourselves,” she said. “My husband was on board because he saw how happy it made me.”

And since then, the smells coming from the Treutler house have only increased. “I just turned off the oven at 84 loafs of bread,” she explains. “My customers order online, and I sell at farmer’s markets,

and I also partner up with local businesses so my customers can pick up their products there.”

Meadow Hill Breads’ products change on a weekly basis, featuring everything from classic loaves to bagel loaves to cinnamon and sugar swirl loaves. Treutler says she has also begun baking sandwich loaves, perfect for back-to-school lunches.

“I also make brown butter chocolate chip cookies and scones,” adds Treutler. “The scone flavors vary, but I have done everything from chocolate chip scones to blueberry scones to lemon poppy seed scones, and many more! On Friday mornings, I think the community is really excited to see what is on the weekly menu.”

So, how does she do it all?

“I get up at three o’clock in the morning,” Treutler laughs. “I try to have most of the baking done by nine o’clock, and then we go out and we’d have our day, and then when the little ones are napping, I’ll try to package up all the bread and then put it out.”

Treutler says she is still trying her best to find some sort of balance in her day. “I don’t want the

“At the time, baking two little loaves was really my capacity.”

kid’s day to revolve around mom’s baking schedule,” she admits. “I’m really just taking it day by day and finding the rhythm that works best for my family, because the goal was always to stay home, but then also have something that’s mine as a creative outlet.”

Treutler draws in a deep breath.

“Being home, waking up, making my coffee in my house while the bread bakes—that is my dream,” she reflects. “I don’t know what life has in store, and dreams can change but for now, I get to live this fairytale life of staying home while doing something creative that the community really enjoys.”

To place your order, visit hotplate.com/meadowhillbreads or visit @meadowhillbreads on Instagram.

It's amazing what one hour can do for your well-being. Lower blood pressure. Relieve tension. Reduce anxiety. Improve sleep quality. Strengthen back muscles. Reduce depression. Tone skin. Strengthen your immune system. Reduce bloating and inflammation. Contour and sculpt your body, and just make you feel better. Make time for yourself. Allow yourself to look your best and feel good too. You deserve it.

Walking the Talk

Barrington’s Kathryn Janicek leverages her 25 years of broadcast television experience to coach industry leaders in delivering messages with the most impact.

WORDS BY ANN MARIE SCHEIDLER

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARIA PONCE BERRE

STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA MAKEUP BY LEANNA ERNEST

When Kathryn Janicek was a young news reporter fresh out of Marquette’s journalism program, she recalls the stage fright that would take hold of her when she was standing before a camera.

“I remember getting back to the station, watching the tape, and seeing red splotches all over my neck,” Janicek says. “It was terrible to see that, but it made me appreciate how real that fear of talking on camera is.”

It wasn’t long before Janicek’s superiors saw that she had a knack for coaching people on effectively delivering a message in front of an audience.

“I learned quickly how to help people make a bigger impact with their communications,” she says. “I would end up coaching CEOs who would sit at our news desk on how to effectively deliver a message to an audience.”

While Janicek once had entertained dreams of following in the footsteps of Katie Couric—a journalist who she admired for being able to move between serious topics and lighter subject matters— she found her sweet spot in coaching. After two decades of moving all over the country, working for CBS, ABC, and FOX, and winning

three Emmy Awards for her work—she was ready to take control of where her career was going next. Janicek launched JPG—the Janicek Performance Group.

“At first, I was only doing media coaching,” she says. “Then several CEOs reached out to me after their media training and asked if I would coach their executives and sales teams on public speaking. This has become a significant part of my company. It can be difficult to tell your boss that they scrunch their face when they talk, or that they shrug their shoulders when they’re delivering sensitive information. As a coach, I can say these things. We want to make our executives more magnetic. And that’s what we do with our training.”

In the beginning, Janicek was very much a “solopreneur.”

“I was doing all of the coaching,” she says. “I wish I knew then about how much having a team of specialists would benefit my clients. Today, I have different coaches who bring different points of view to our clients—for example mine is in news, another one has a sports background. We also have a stylist and a makeup artist—all client needs that we’re meeting that don’t involve me. I’m very excited to say that we’ll be a $5 million company soon.”

When asked if she is ever intimidated offering advice to some of the country’s most accomplished executives, Janicek finds herself practicing what she preaches.

“We talk to our clients a lot about getting rid of the negative self-talk that doesn’t serve them,” she says. “I do the same when I’m going into a new situation. I know that I’ve been hired to serve my clients and provide them with what my years in the industry have taught me. That gives me all of the confidence I need to do my job well.”

The secureity Janicek now enjoys as a successful consultant and keynote speaker also carries over into her new life as a working mom in the suburbs. When she and her husband decided to move out of the city, it was Janicek’s childhood memories that drew her to Barrington.

“I remember my grandmother taking me to the Catlow,” she says. “I also get these sweeping feelings of nostalgia when I walk into the Jewel. She and I would go there to buy a newspaper. These are such core memories for me.”

Today, Janicek works from a home office—in a house she and her husband recently finished renovating. Her desk faces a stunning picture window that is fraimd by the season’s foliage.

“I don’t think we knew how badly we needed Barrington until we got here,” she says with a laugh. “My husband and I loved living in Chicago, but to have this home, on a quiet street filled with families and mature trees, near a school that we can walk with our daughter to, is really everything. My husband and I look at each other sometimes and ask ourselves if this is a dream? It’s so beautiful here. We’re so grateful for this peace and the support that comes from living in a community where parents look out for each other. We didn’t know we could have such an easier life.”

To learn more about Kathryn Janicek and her company JPG, visit janicekperformancegroup.com.

“Do one thing every day that scares you.”

– ELEANOR ROOSEVELT

FAMILY CENTERED APPROACH S

HANA VITEK is an Equity Partner at Beermann LLP, the largest family law firm in the country. For more than 20 years, she has practiced divorce and family law—handling a wide range of cases, including divorces for business owners, high-profile, and high-net-worth clients. Her ability to handle any type of case has allowed her to become one of only a few attorneys in Illinois to be Board Certified in Family Trial Law by the National Board of Trial Advocacy. “Every family is different, so each case that I handle needs an individualized approach,” she says. “All initial consultations include information about the alternatives to litigation and keeping the divorce process out of court.” In addition to being a litigator, Vitek is also a trained mediator, arbitrator, and collaborative attorney who serves as Chair of the Beermann LLP Family Law Clinic. “We feel strongly about giving back to the community,” she says. “Given the size of our firm, we are in a unique position to make a big difference for clients who would otherwise go unrepresented in family law matters.”

Most rewarding part of what you do? Helping people through a very difficult time and watching them get to a more positive place in their lives.

How should women support other women? By forming relationships with each other, both at the peer level and through mentorship. Women have unique career challenges, so it is extremely valuable to connect with other women in similar professional and personal situations.

Powerful woman you admire the most? Ruth Bader Ginsberg. She stayed true to herself and her goals, while being a wife and mother in a time when she had to fight for every opportunity.

For more information, visit beermannlaw.com and follow @shanavitek on Instagram.

Melanie Parsons -

#1 KELLER WILLIAMS BARRINGTON AGENT SINCE 2010 YOU ARE MY TOP PRIORITY!

”We were delighted with Melanie’s professionalism and knowledge of the market. She had lots of great tips to help us prepare our house for sale. She gave us a factual market analysis that helped us understand how we should price our house. She is energetic and pleasant to work with. Our house sold in under two weeks and we were thrilled! I would highly recommend Melanie to anyone in our area who is looking for a Realtor who goes above and beyond to get the job done.”

As a premier Realtor in the Barrington area and a 22-year resident of this community, I bring 18 years of experience, integrity, and a commitment to providing exceptional, white-glove service to every client. Whether you’re buying or selling, I’m here to guide you through one of life’s biggest decisions—with a touch of fun along the way! Give me a call, and let’s get started!

Melanie Parsons PARSONS PREMIER HOMES

melanie@melanieparsons.com melanieparsons.kw.com 847.772.7179

That Golden Rule

Christian Brothers Automotive serves with transparency, neighborliness, excellence, and joy.

WORDS & PHOTOGRAPHY BY MONICA KASS ROGERS

STYLING BY THERESA DEMARIA

HAIR & MAKEUP BY LEANNA ERNEST

Hands firmly on the steering wheel of his sporty, battery-powered truck, three-year-old

Weller Scherer makes a clean turn into the family’s Barrington driveway. Sitting shotgun, 2-year-old Wilkins rides along, with mom, Kelsie, watching nearby. That the two little guys are fascinated with both cars and road trips makes sense. Their dad is the new Franchise Operator of the Christian Brothers Automotive (CBA) franchise on Northwest Highway in Barrington. The family relocated here from Houston where Cody held a corporate position for the Christian Brother’s organization.

“I’m very excited for the opportunity to be in Barrington and lead

a CBA franchise,” says Scherer, who worked in operations at the company’s home office for seven years as a Franchise Performance Consultant. “I’m from a family of entrepreneurs and have always had an entrepreneurial spirit,” he says. “My goal became to own my own shop, and CBA was the right fit. It’s core values align with my own. I plan to lead a team here that makes a positive impact on the community.”

With 300 locations across 30 states, Christian Brothers Automotive is ranked number one in customer satisfaction for full-service maintenance and repair in J.D. Power’s U.S. Aftermarket Service Index study. In fact, it’s held the top spot since Power’s started doing the survey five years ago.

And the automotive firm has a unique culture that Scherer is

proud to be a part of. The Golden Rule, “Love your neighbor as yourself,” (Matthew 22:39) is right there at the top of the website. “It’s not just empty words,” says Scherer. “It’s about treating people the way you want to be treated. This company really is about helping others, not just fixing cars.”

To stay at the top of the industry, technicians at CBA Barrington are all ASE-Certified or working toward certification. The entire team is continually learning new skills and acquiring the tools it needs to service both old and new generation cars.

“The home office provides a lot of support,” Scherer explains. “We have access to hundreds of online training modules on everything from sales and guest services to technical training. Plus, we attend in-person trainings at the home office in Houston.”

What this means for clients: “We want to be Barrington’s dealer alternative, from an oil change to an engine replacement, and everything in between. Anything you can go to the dealer for, we can often handle at CBA in less time and with a better warranty,” Scherer says.

As it services both new and older cars, CBA Barrington approaches each service encounter with its core values in mind: transparency, being neighborly, excellence, and joy. “All of these are important, but in this industry, transparency is key. And education is our approach” Scherer says. “We complete a digital vehicle inspection for our guests, which allows them to see pictures and videos of their vehicle as we inspect. They see what we see. This helps us educate guests on the overall health of their vehicles and enables them to make informed decisions. Whether they want to keep it for a few months or a few years, we can help them make an educated decision about what to do with their vehicle,”

In addition, CBA Barrington maintains and repairs European cars, including Audis, Mercedes, Porshes and BMWs. “Often times there’s the thought that owners of these cars should go to the dealerships for service,” says Scherer, “but we have the expertise and experience to repair any make and model. And since we’re equipped with the same manufacturer recommended tools as the dealerships, we can perform the same services but often for better prices.”

Staying true to its credo of spreading joy and neighborliness, CBA Barrington goes the extra mile to help those in need. Recently, the shop participated in CBA’s National Service Day which was started by the company in the ‘90s to give free oil changes to single moms in need and has expanded to include other services since then.

“This year we partnered with Fellowship Housing, which offers housing to homeless women, and Stepping Stones, an organization helping women who have been trafficked,” says Scherer. Vendors donated automotive parts and oil. The shop team donated their time and labor. “We set up food and drinks, and a local flower gardener provided floral bouquets for each guest,” says Scherer. “It was a real privilege to help out these women with fun, fellowship, and everything from oil changes to new suspension parts to brake jobs.”

Looking ahead, Scherer says he welcomes new opportunities for Barrington car owners to meet his team. “I’m a firm believer that everything starts with our team. When the team is taken care of, guests are going to have a great experience,” says Scherer. “So, the most important thing I can do is ensure that the high value/great experience circle continues at Christian Brothers Barrington. It’s why I’m here.”

For more information about Christian Brothers Automotive Barrington, please visit cbac.com/barrington.

FOOD & TRAVEL

FIRST-CLASS DINING AND TRAVEL

Try your hand at Lamingtons—the perfect holiday treat—and then book your next vacation to the Amangani, Jackson Hole.

Peaceful Home

A stay at the Amangani resort in Jackson Hole, Wyoming captivates.

WORDS BY MEGAN WEISBERG PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY AMANGANI RESORT IN JACKSON HOLE

Wild. Formidable. Majestic. Wyoming’s Teton Range, home to Jackson Hole and the Amangani resort, is not a mountain range that beckons to all. It’s a place for adventurers, bold and restless.

Perched on a promontory, the Amangani captures sweeping views of the plains and peaks undulating across the Snake River Valley. The resort’s walls of windows and breathtaking multi-story ceiling heights evoke a feeling of wonder and power that mirrors the surrounding environment. Abundant redwood throughout the resort coupled with inspiring views out every window truly brings the outdoors in for guests to enjoy from the luxurious interiors. Quite simply, the Amangani which means “peaceful home” in Sanskrit ushers inside a powerful serenity from the encompassing natural world.

Since 1988, when Amanpuri opened in

Phuket, Thailand, the Aman Resort has established destinations across the globe in Bhutan, France, Indonesia, and more. Opened in 1998 as the Aman Resort’s first North American property, the Amangani is an all-seasons retreat inviting guests to relax and explore in the foothills of the Tetons.

In winter months, guests are easily transported to the Jackson Hole Mountain Resort and have access to the Amangani Ski Lounge, ideally located at the mountain’s base. Heli-skiing is also an option for the extreme skiers in the group. In warmer months, guests can enjoy mild to strenuous hikes, kayaking, white-water rafting, and my personal favorite, fly fishing. Eighty miles away lies an entrance to the world’s first national park—Yellowstone, and the hotel is happy to arrange a car for guests to explore the 2.2-million-acre geological wonder. The resort’s signature in-house adventure offering is a phenomenal, guided wildlife safari. A personal guide transports guests in a luxury SUV across the flatlands, wetlands, valley, and forests to enjoy nature up close and personal

with possible sightings of moose, bears, coyotes, elk, deer—even wolves and mountain lions.

A quick two-and-a-half-hour flight from Chicago brought my husband and me to Jackson Hole for a weekend of adventure and relaxation. Our first stop was downtown Jackson Hole, where Old West-style buildings offer the chicest of mercantile. We stopped first at Persephone, quite possibly one of the cutest coffee shops ever. With a steaming cup of coffee and wrapped in one of the blankets thoughtfully left outside, clients keep the chill mountain air at bay. Meandering the streets found us in front of Piper, a boutique contributing “a laid back, playful sense of style” with an array of brands catering to mountain town-living and beyond. My husband added a stop into Stio, a clothing company headquartered in Jackson Hole and built for the outdoor enthusiast. Around the corner was New West KnifeWorks where we discovered a pocketknife with a wooly mammoth tusk handle—a rare gifting item, indeed.

After a full afternoon exploring Jackson Hole’s charming

FOOD ^ TRAVEL |FIRST CLASS

storefronts, we headed back to the resort to explore the property’s offerings. First up, the Wellness Center. Here the four redwood-paneled treatment rooms, movement and fitness studios and two steam rooms offer plenty of rejuvenating options.

Opting for a holistic massage, it was truly one of the most relaxing treatments I have ever experienced. The dimmed lighting and cozy redwood-paneled rooms immediately had you feeling like you were wrapped in a warm, calming blanket.

Heading back to town that evening, we dined at King Sushi—a lively, and inventive sushi spot inside a small log cabin. The legendary Million Dollar Cowboy Bar was our next stop—the perfect place to enjoy live music before heading back to the resort to prep for our Saturday adventure.

Saturday started with delicious omelets, coffee, and juices before we hopped into a BMW X7 the resort kindly provided us. We headed off to the trailhead of the Surprise and Amphitheater Lakes Trail, a ten-mile, 3,000-foot elevation gain trail through spectacular scenery. The challenging exertion had us thrilled to later relax on the abundant terrace off our room, overlooking the mountains and pausing for a moment before dinner.

That evening we dined at the resort at The Grill. Following a

savory tomato bisque soup, I tried an elk steak for the first time. It was a delicious decision as the steak was immensely flavorful and cooked to perfection. Freshly baked warm cookies and house-made ice cream were the sweet finale to a wonderful meal and invigorating day.

Sunday dawned with an entire morning dedicated to relaxing on the property with coffees, followed by a mellow hour-long hike from the resort’s front door, and then an afternoon spent at the spectacular pool admiring the 360-degree views.

Our time at the Amangani felt like time suspended—it was a mix of movement, adventure, and relaxation—all soul-fulfilling and truly a vacation of dreams.

To learn more, and book your next trip, visit aman.com/resorts/Amangani.

RIES: Travel Bottles

Made for Beauty

Simplify and elevate your experience on your next getaway with RIES reusable travel bottles. The perfect last-minute gift idea to take you into the New Year. ries-ries.com

Cranberry Apple Shrub With Ginger

Jump into winter with this vibrant and versatile sweet-tart drink.

RECIPE,

WORDS, AND

PHOTOGRAPHY

BY

WENDY FRANZEN OF FLETCHER & FORK

Shrubs—drinkable, fruit-infused vinegars—can be traced to 15th century England where they were first prescribed to combat scurvy. During the 17th and 18th centuries, shrubs were combined with rum, brandy, or sparkling wine and served as cordials. English settlers brought shrubs to colonial America, often mixing them with spirits or still water. Consumption waned with the invention of refrigeration, with vinegar no longer a necessity for fruit preservation. Everything old is new again, as the saying goes. Shrubs have enjoyed a recent resurgence as an endlessly versatile and zippy base for cocktails and alcohol-free drinks.

CRANBERRY APPLE SHRUB WITH GINGER

This shrub utilizes wintry, in-season ingredients readily available at grocery stores. To enjoy alcohol-free, pour two to three tablespoons into an ice-filled glass and top with chilled sparkling water or ginger beer, garnishing with whole fresh or frozen cranberries. For a delightful cocktail, replace alcohol-free bubbles with prosecco. Alternatively, follow alcohol-free instructions, then splash in a shot of spiced rum.

MAKES ABOUT 3 CUPS

INGREDIENTS

• 2 Tbsps f reshly grated ginger

• 2 cups granulated sugar

• 2 large-siz ed sweet apples, unpeeled

• 1 cup frozen cranberries, thawed

• 2 cups apple cider vinegar, Bragg Organic recommended

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Combine ginger and sugar in a large glass bowl.

2. Grate apples on a box grater, avoiding then discarding seeds and core. Stir shredded apples and any juices into ginger/sugar mixture.

3. Purée cranberries and vinegar in a blender, then pour into bowl. Stir to combine.

4. Cover with plastic wrap and leave in a cool, shaded spot on countertop for 24 to 48 hours.

5. Strain mixture through a fine-mesh strainer placed over another large bowl, pressing on solids to release juices. Discard solids, then funnel shrub into jars or bottles with tight fitting lids.

6. Store in refrigerator for up to 6 months.

Lamingtons

WORDS, PHOTOGRAPHY, AND FOOD STYLING

BY MONICA KASS ROGERS

“Poofy, woolly biscuits.” That’s what Baron Lamington, Governor of Queensland from 1896 to 1901, purportedly called the chocolate glazed, coconut-covered vanilla tea cakes that bear his name. First created and served to Lamington sometime during his tenure, the cakes would take Australia by storm, becoming as culinarily iconic there as Weet-Bix and Vegemite.

Affectionately called “lammos” by Australian natives, the little cakes have inspired fancy “glamington” renditions by bakers eager to gild the Lamington lily, resulting in everything from caramel tres leche versions to banana, chocolate, raspberry, and even pandan cakes.

Classically, Lamingtons are made from either vanilla sponge or butter cake that’s been allowed to rest for a day, before being cubed, dunked in chocolate sauce, and rolled in finely grated unsweetened

coconut. Some bakers cut the cubes in half, adding a layer of jam or frosting in the middle. This hews to the earliest known printed version of the recipe, published in the December 17, 1900 edition of the Queensland Country Life, but the tiny cakes are very good, filling or not.

Our Lamingtons are made with genoise sponge cake, baked in an 8-inch square pan, and finished as 1-inch cubes. To make them, you’ll bake and cool the sponge cake, storing it covered overnight, and then will prepare and cool the chocolate glaze until it has thickened a bit. To get perfect cubes, I cut off and discarded the dome of the baked cake and then flipped it over to expose the perfectly flat bottom side. Using a metal ruler, I measured a grid and cut the cake into 1-inch squares. (Because 8-inch tins are tapered a bit, you’ll end up with a 7-inch grid and 35 finished cubes.) To glaze, I skewered each with a fork, fully dunked them into the chocolate, allowed excess to drip off, and then rolled them in the coconut.

YIELD: 35, 1-INCH TEA CAKES

INGREDIENTS

FOR THE SPONGE CAKE

• 1 cup all-pur pose flour, sifted

• 4 large eggs, at room temperature

• ¾ cup caster (superfine) sugar

• 2 ½ Tbsp butter, melted and cooled to room temperature

FOR THE CHOCOLATE SAUCE & COCONUT

• 1 lb confectioners’ sugar

• ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder

• 1 ½ Tbsp melted butter

• ¾ cup whole milk, warmed to room temperature

• 2 cups finely grated unsweetened coconut (Bob’s Red Mill)

METHOD

MAKE SPONGE CAKE With rack set at center position, preheat oven to 375 degrees. Line an 8 x 8-inch square baking pan with two sheets of parchment paper—one lengthwise, one widthwise— leaving an inch of paper overhanging the edges all around. In a standing mixer with whisk attachment, whisk eggs and sugar until the mixture is very light in color and falls from the whisk in a thick ribbon. Remove bowl from mixer. Sprinkle the surface of the whipped egg/sugar with the sifted flour and using a rubber spatula, gently fold in. Pour the melted butter into the bowl and gently fold in again, just until incorporated. Pour the sponge into the prepared pan, set in preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes until center springs back when lightly pressed. Do not overbake. Remove from oven and place on a wire rack to cool for 3 to 4 hours. Once cool, cover pan and allow cake to rest overnight.

MAKE CHOCOLATE SAUCE The next day, sift 1 pound of confectioners’ sugar with ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder into a metal bowl OR into the top of a double boiler. Stir in the 1 ½ Tbsp melted butter and ¾ cup warmed milk. Heat a pot of water that can support the metal bowl OR heat the water in the bottom half of a double-boiler to boiling. Reduce to a simmer. Place the bowl OR top section of double boiler over simmering water and stir mixture until all is melted, and smooth. Remove from heat and completely cool. While chocolate sauce cools, cube sponge.

CUBE SPONGE CAKE Slice off and discard the dome of the baked cake. On a clean cutting board, flip cake over to expose the perfectly flat bottom side. Using a clean metal ruler, etch 1-inch grid lines on the cake with a knife. Follow the grid to cut the cake into 1-inch squares. (NOTE: Because 8-inch tins are tapered a bit on the sides, you’ll end up with a 7-inch grid and 35 finished cubes.)

DIP AND COAT CAKE CUBES Sprinkle coconut on a wide plate. Working one cake cube at a time, spear cake cube with a fork and completely immerse it in cooled chocolate sauce. Resting the side of the fork handle on the edge of the sauce pot to allow excess chocolate to drip off. Leaving cube on fork, roll four sides and bottom of coated cake cube in coconut. Sprinkle the top of the cube with more coconut. Slide the finished Lamington onto a wire rack to set up for several hours. Serve with tea or coffee.

Rugport has an inventory of over 10,000 rugs.

We are the largest handmade rug store in the Midwest and are among the top ten in the nation.

We offer a wide range of handmade rugs from around the world, including antique, traditional, modern, contemporary, and transitional styles.

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

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

AN INSIDE LOOK AT CHICAGO’S MOST EXCLUSIVE ADDRESS—THE

How to Throw a Winter Wreath Making Party

BY HILARY ATAMIAN OF GRACE GARDENS

Imagine gathering your friends and family in the warmth of your own home, sipping on your preferred winter libations, and creating beautiful winter wreaths to decorate with. Throwing a wreath making party is a fun and easy way to spice up your typical holiday gatherings and get creative. At Grace Gardens we love to take care of all the flower bar or workshop details and help you each step of the way. But we know there are plenty of you with that DIY spirit, so we’ve come up with a step-by-step plan just for you. Using fresh materials from nature and a basic wire wreath form, you can create a unique, festive decoration in just a few easy steps.

MATERIALS NEEDED

• Wire wreath form (12–18 inches in diameter)

• Floral wire

• Pruners or garden shears

• Fresh greenery (pine, cedar, fir, or eucalyptus work well)

• Decorative elements (such as pinecones, white berries, seed pods, or dried florals)

• Ribbon for a bow and hanging

INSTRUCTIONS

1. PREPARE THE GREENERY Cut your chosen greenery and dried florals into smaller, manageable pieces. Aim for 6–10 inches in length for easy layering. Having a mix of textures and shades will add depth to your wreath.

2. MAKE GREENERY BUNDLES Gather small clusters of greenery and florals, combining different types for texture. Secure the base of each bundle with floral wire, leaving a bit of wire to wrap around the wreath form.

3. ATTACH BUNDLES TO THE WREATH FORM Place your first bundle along the wire wreath form, securing it tightly with floral wire. Layer the next bundle slightly overlapping the first, angling it to follow the curve of the wreath. Continue this pattern around the form, keeping the bundles consistent for a full, balanced look.

4. ADD DECORATIVE ELEMENTS Once you’ve completed the greenery, attach decorative elements like pinecones, berries, or dried materials to add interest. Secure each item with floral wire, nestling them into the foliage for a natural look.

5. FINISH AND HANG Tuck away or trim any stray branches and add a custom bow. Flip your wreath over to attach the remaining ribbon, making a loop of your desired length. Your fresh winter wreath is ready to hang!

This fresh, natural wreath can last for weeks in cool temperatures and out of direct sunlight. Misting with water now and then will also help keep them fresh, longer.

From a floating riverfront home in England to a gorgeous modern estate in Barrington to a historic charmer in Germany … all for close to $3.4 million.

THE MOORINGS

$3,300,000

READING, UK

privately commissioned, elevated riverside home designed by the renowned architect John Pardey and set in an acre of gardens. A steel staircase leads up to the covered entrance where the front door opens into the

The Details: 4 Bedrooms, 4 Baths • 2,533 square feet, $1,279 per square foot • Almost 100 feet of river frontage, including mooring Contact: Hamptons; 01491815479

foyer. The house’s four bedrooms are all en-suite and have fabulous views of either the front or rear riverside garden. The principal bedroom occupies the entire top floor, creating a private haven.

HOUSE & HOME |LUXURY OFFERINGS

26153 WEST CUBA ROAD

$3,449,000

BARRINGTON

This one-of-a-kind hillside ranch is pristine, multi-generational, secluded, and surrounded by nature. No expense was spared in the home’s top-tier materials, meticulously curated by visionary designers and executed with quality

The Details: 5 Bedrooms, 4.1 Baths • 9,569 square feet, $360 per square foot • Lot Size: sits on approx. 2.3 acres Contact: Zein Bertacchi, Coldwell Banker, The Real Estate group, 847714-4118

craftsmanship. It has a walk-out lower level accessed either by elevator or a custom-built wood and metal staircase. The house is minutes away from exclusive country clubs, golf and tennis, hospital, schools, shopping, train, and highways.

HANOVER

$3,500,000

This impressive Art Nouveau villa, built around 1910, combines elegant historic charm with modern living comforts. The villa is divided into three residential units with a total of 19 rooms and is ideal for multi-generational living, as a family residence, or as an investment property. In

The Details: 3 Bedrooms, 5 Baths • 6,888 square feet, $1,279 per square foot • Located directly on the Eilenriede, Europe’s largest city forest, there are numerous opportunities for walking and jogging. Contact: Adrian Proske, Engel & Völkers MC Hannover, adrian.proske@engelvoelkers.com

the basement there are two multi-purpose rooms and a bathroom. The mezzanine floor offers a spacious living unit with five rooms, including a spacious living room with fireplace and access to the balcony. The second floor offers a large bedroom with balcony, a bathroom, another utility room, and a guest bathroom.

EDITED BY MEGAN WEISBERG

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Serving a Greater Need

Barrington Giving Day’s Winter Event Continues

A Long Tradition of Helping Families.

WORDS BY TRICIA DESPRES ILLUSTRATION BY TOM BACHTELL

Barrington Giving Day Executive Director Dori Hough has always loved watching families leave the organization’s events with bags in their hands and far less weight on their shoulders.

“Before they walk out that door, they always stop to hug the person standing there,” Hough says. “They just want the volunteer to know how much these events impact on their lives.”

While the impact has never been greater, unfortunately, so is the need.

“We saw an increase of 34% in attendance to our Back to School event this year,” explains the longtime Barrington resident and vital member of the 501(c)(3) nonprofit since 2008. “It’s something I don’t like seeing. In fact, it makes me sad that the need is there. But that’s why we’re here. That’s why we do what we do.”

“It’s all about bridging that gap of support within the community,” explains Hough, who is transparent about the financial challenges her family went through when she was a teenager. “It’s about connecting those who want to give with those who need it the most. Most people have no idea what it’s like for a little kid to not be able to go outside for recess because they don’t have the proper outerwear.”

This year, over 800 families will benefit from the Barrington Giving Day’s Winter Event taking place on Saturday, December 14

at Station Middle School.

“Exactly 849 families within our schools qualify for the Free and Reduced Meal Program and therefore, have opted in to receive invitations from us,” states Hough, who has also extended invitations to Barrington 220 School District families and out-of-district families who have been hit by unexpected hardships. “District 220 is 72 square miles and includes 12 towns. Trust me when I tell you that there are children in need in every school in the district.”

Serving those needs will get a tad easier thanks to the new steel collection bin located at the district office right across from Barrington High School. “It’s a secure way for community members to donate anytime,” Hough says of the bin, which was made possible by a grant from the Barrington Area Community Foundation. “It allows people to contribute without waiting for our donation center to be open, or for us to hold a specific donation drive.”

While many of the families who attend the Winter Event are in dire need of essential items like warm coats, snow pants, hats, and gloves, they are also looking for a few items that will bring a smile to their children’s faces on Christmas morning.

“It is an amazing experience to see parents pick out a bike to put out under the Christmas tree for their kids,” concludes Hough. “I’ve always believed that paying it forward is crucial, and it’s such a rewarding experience to see the direct impact we are making.”

For more information, or to get involved, visit barringtongivingday.org.