5 + 1 BEDS, 6.3 BATHS, GARAGE SPACE FOR UP TO 22 CARS // $27,500,000
Once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own this spectacular Lake Forest estate spanning 5.27 breathtaking acres with 570 feet of Lake Michigan frontage and a private cove beach. Completed in 2019 after four years of planning and construction, this magnificent home includes 5 en-suite bedrooms, a Christopher Peacock kitchen, library, theater, amazing wine cellar, luxurious spa room, elevator, pool, spa, and a boathouse accessed by a gated driveway or historic grand staircase. Heated garage space for 22 cars—ideal for collectors. Smart home features, geothermal HVAC systems, radiant heat floors, and panoramic lake views complete this masterpiece of luxury living and craftsmanship. Absolute perfection!
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WITH
Lake Forest’s Heidi Clifton, board president and tireless volunteer, is reshaping community engagement and helping feed Chicago’s most vulnerable. THE REEL DEAL
Educator Shannon Dey turns a side passion into a growing visual storytelling enterprise for businesses, nonprofits, and families alike. FOURTH-GENERATION
Maddie Dugan— granddaughter of A.B. Dick Jr.—continues a proud family legacy
her
Hudson Brill takes the plunge as part of Allendale Youth Board’s first
Plunge,
Heidi Clifton wears an Alix of Bohemia coat and Linda Richards hat from The Lake Forest Shop. Photography by James Gustin Styling by Theresa DeMaria Hair and Makeup by Leanna Ernest
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Editor’s Note
As winter settles over the North Shore, we're warmed by the stories of residents whose contributions are making our community better every day.
In Leading with Heart, we introduce Heidi Clifton, whose dedication to Lake Forest Open Lands Association (LFOLA) and Meals on Wheels Chicago exempli es the power of purposeful giving. As LFOLA's Associate Board president, Clifton is reimagining community engagement, while her tireless work with Meals on Wheels—which raised over $1 million at last year's Celebrity Chef Ball—is rooted in a moving family story that reminds us why dignity matters at every stage of life.
Maddie Dugan continues a remarkable fourgeneration legacy of philanthropy in our feature FourthGeneration Philanthropist. As the granddaughter of A.B. Dick Jr., whose family donated the land that is now Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital, Dugan's work on the Women's Board scholarship committee honors her family's commitment to health care.
Shannon Dey's journey from educator to sought-after visual storyteller unfolds in e Reel Deal. What began as documenting a home renovation has blossomed into e Reel North Shore, a creative platform that captures the beauty, emotion, and quiet moments that de ne life on the North Shore. Dey's ability to bottle feelings through lm has made her an invaluable partner to local businesses, designers, and families alike.
eater director Beth Wolf brings provocative storytelling to Citadel eatre in Behind the Scenes. e two-
time Je Award nominee opens Admissions this month, a challenging play that tackles the complex politics of college admissions at elite universities.
In e Portrait, Lake Forest native Shelby Caparelli shares how leaving her corporate career to become a tness instructor at Toned Yoga reconnected her with her hometown roots and allows her to make a meaningful impact in just 45-minute increments.
In e Last Word, we highlight the great work of Paws for Patrick, a Lake Forest-based nonpro t whose mission is to improve the mental health of young people through the comfort and connection of animals. On February 27, the organization celebrates its ve-year anniversary at its Paws for a Cause bene t.
We hope these stories inspire you as much as they've inspired us.
ERIN DONALDSON Editor in Chief
erin@jwcmedia.com
@forest&blu mag
Shannon Dey
Heidi Clifton
Where playful hearts and little hands make wonder.
Give your child a magical space to create and shine. Step into a world of color, creativity, and make-believe at Lucy & Lolly’s Whimsy Workshop where little ones are free to explore, create, and grow through imaginative, colorful, and sensory-flled play. Sessions are now open, visit our website to book your child’s spot today!
Forget Perfect: How to Help Your Athlete Overcome the Pressure to Be Flawless
Release your athlete from the burden of perfectionism and unlock their freedom to play. words by Dr. Elizabeth Lombardo / photography by Maria Ponce Berre styling by Lillie Alexander / hair & makeup by Rabecca Ann
Each month, peak performance sports psychologist (and fellow parent) Dr. E tackles your toughest questions head-on.
Dear Dr. E.—
My athlete holds themselves to incredibly high standards, and when they fall short, even slightly, it’s like the world is ending. One missed shot, one bad rep, and they shut down. I want them to push themselves, but this perfectionism is draining all the joy out of their sport. How do I help?
—Tired of All-or-Nothing
Dear All-or-Nothing—
You’ve named one of the most common (but least recognized) performance traps in youth sports: perfectionism. Not the “I want to be great” kind. e “If I’m not perfect, I’ve failed” kind. is mindset looks like high standards, but it’s fueled by fear. Fear of letting people down. Fear of being judged. Fear of not being enough. And when that fear kicks in, it doesn’t drive performance, it chokes it.
Here’s how perfectionism sounds inside an athlete’s head:
• “One mistake means I’m not good enough.”
• “If I don’t play my best, I’ve let everyone down.”
• “ ere’s no point if I can’t do it perfectly.”
at’s not motivation. at’s mental quicksand. And even the most talented athletes can get stuck.
Why this mindset back res:
Perfectionism puts the brain in a constant state of threat. It creates an all-or-nothing loop: perfect or failure, success or embarrassment. And the moment something goes wrong (as it always does in sports), the Red Zone takes over.
Your athlete might tighten up, play small, or shut down—not from lack of skill, but because their selfworth is hooked to perfection.
So, what can you do? Here are three tips: 1. Reframe the “perfect game.”
Instead of asking, “Did you play well?” try:
• “What challenged you today, and how did you respond?”
• “What did you learn that will help you grow?”
• “What’s one moment you’re proud of, even if it didn’t go perfectly?”
ese questions help shift the scoreboard from outcome to process. From pressure to progress.
2. Normalize mistakes, so they don’t trigger the Red Zone.
When your athlete ties their worth to being awless, even a small misstep can send them into the Red Zone, where their subconscious feels like it’s drowning. And no one plays well in that state.
Remind them: every athlete makes mistakes—even the pros. What sets great athletes apart isn’t perfection; it's how fast they recover. Celebrate resilience over stats, and progress over perfection. at shift rewires the pressure and rewrites performance.
3. Introduce mindset skills training. is is where real change happens. When athletes learn to spot perfectionistic thoughts, regulate the spiral they trigger, and reframe them in real time, they unlock the freedom to perform. Not perfectly. But fully.
Because here’s the truth: perfectionism feels like a strength—but it steals the very thing it promises: con dence.
Let’s help your athlete trade pressure for purpose.
—Dr. E
Talent may open the door, but mindset determines who walks through it. Dr. E equips athletes with the mental skills to rise under pressure and compete at their full potential. Learn more at EleVive.com.
Dr. Elizabeth Lombardo
The Good Life
Musings on What’s Doing And Who’s Doing It
The HOW on living your best life, engaging in meaningful activities, and building relationships in the community
Maddie Dugan discusses her longstanding passion project in Fourth-Generation Philanthropist.
EXPERIENCE MATTERS... A TRADITION OF TRUST SINCE 1903
My family has been selling real estate locally since my grandfather’s uncle founded John Griffth, Inc. in 1903. Our business is recognized as the longest continually operated family business in both Lake Forest and Lake Bluff. In 2021 we partnered with Compass and are now known as the GGL Group.
The GGL Group at Compass operates with the same principles upon which we were founded. Five generations of my family have been fortunate to call Lake Forest and Lake Bluff home. My son, Brady, joined us 10 years ago and is carrying on our family tradition.
We serve our clients with honesty and integrity and have always been committed to the communities we serve. As a past president of the LF-LB Rotary and Lions Club I have gained a true appreciation for the efforts of so many volunteers who make a real difference in the lives of so many. Thanks so very much to those who have placed their trust in me over the last 32 years. I look forward to continuing our “tradition of trust” in the future.
Feel free to reach out at any time if I may be of assistance.
February Favorites
SOUP & BREAD NIGHT
WHEN: Wednesdays in Winter
WHERE: Elawa Farm
Enjoy an evening of warmth, good food, and great company at Elawa Farm’s Soup & Bread Night—a family-friendly, cozy community dinner celebrating the spirit of sharing and connection. Gather around the table with friends and neighbors to enjoy a comforting seasonal meal prepared by Elawa Farm’s culinary team. For every ticket purchased, Elawa Farm will donate a serving of the evening’s menu to families supported by North Chicago Community Partners. elawafarm.org
VALENTINE’S DAY DESSERT DEMO & TASTING
WHEN: February 10
WHERE: Lake Forest Library
Join Chef Susan Maddox in person to discover perfect Valentine's Day dessert ideas. Maddox will demonstrate a few recipes, explain various techniques, and provide delicious tasting samples. Admission is free, but registration requested. lakeforestlibrary.org/events
rector of the Penn Center for Neuroaesthetics—examines how the neuroscience of aesthetic experience intersects, and at times con icts, with the ethical questions raised by brain science. Pre-seminar reception, 4 p.m.; seminar 4:30–5:45 p.m., Brown Hall. lakeforest.edu/ community
RENDEZVOUS ARTS
WHEN: February 13
WHERE: Gorton Center
On Valentine’s week, Rendezvous Arts is turning up the romance with a concert that feels like a love letter in sound. e Kaia String Quartet joins forces with guitar virtuoso Fareed Haque for an unforgettable evening of passion, precision, and pure joy. gortoncenter.org
ADMISSIONS
WHEN: February 14 to March 15
WHERE: Citadel eatre
NEUROAESTHETICS AND NEUROETHICS MAKE FOR STRANGE BEDFELLOWS
WHEN: February 10
WHERE: Lake Forest College Lake Forest College presents an engaging exploration of art, beauty, and the brain. Dr. Anjan Chatterjee, MD—Professor of Neurology, Psychology, and Architecture at the University of Pennsylvania and Di-
Lake
At an elite prep school, Sherri Rosen-Mason is leading the charge for change—until her own son’s Ivy League dreams put her ideals to the test. is sharp, compelling drama digs into the lengths we’ll go to protect our children, and the complicated truths that surface when personal stakes get too close to home. citadeltheatre.org
LADIES NIGHT
DANCE PARTY
WHEN: February 20
WHERE: Gorton Center
Ladies Night Out is the ultimate women-only dance party where you can let loose, own the dance oor, and still be home by 10 p.m. Expect a DJ, dancing, cocktails and fun. Must be 21 years or older. gortoncenter.org
LECTURE: RETHINKING TECH’S “MOVE FAST” CULTURE
WHEN: February 23
WHERE: Lake Forest College Join data ethics scholar Dr. Brandeis
Marshall, founder and CEO of DataedX Group, LLC, for a conversation on how the tech industry’s “move fast and break things” culture has shaped today’s digital world— and how we can build a more humane path forward. e event includes a presentation, moderated discussion, and book signing. From 4 to 5:30 p.m., Brown Hall. lakeforest.edu/community
PAWS FOR A CAUSE BENEFIT
WHEN: February 27
WHERE: Loft 21, Lincolnshire Paws for Patrick celebrates ve years of love and legacy at its Paws for a Cause bene t. Guests will enjoy a seated dinner by Jordan’s Food of Distinction, open bar, live and silent auction, and entertainment. All proceeds bene t erapy Dog, Emotional Support Animal (ESA), and Facility Dog programs. pawsforpatrick.org
APRÈS SKI – VAL D’ISÈRE
WHEN: February 28
WHERE: Conway Farms Golf Club Allendale Women’s Board is hitting the slopes again this winter, transporting guests to Val d’Isère in the French Alps where the revelry after a day of skiing is legendary. e indoor/outdoor a air will feature the best in après ski costumes and attire, a deejay spinning club beats, VIP yurts and incredible decor by ESP Presents. Chef Paul Kahan of One O Hospitality is designing an alpine-themed menu highlighting avec restaurant. Allendale helps children and families heal, build resilience, and nd hope through comprehensive care, specialized education, and steadfast advocacy. allendale4kids.org
O'HARE IRISH DANCE SHOWCASE
WHEN: March 8
WHERE: Lake Forest Academy O'Hare School of Irish Dance celebrates St. Patrick's Day with a 4 p.m. performance showcasing traditional Irish dance and music with a modern twist. ohareirishdance.com
About Town
Forest Library hosts a Valentine’s Day Dessert Demo & Tasting on February 10
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The Good Life
Leap of Faith
Lake Forest native Shelby Caparelli reflects on the journey that brought her back to her hometown and led her to a new career as a fitness instructor.
edited by Bronte Starling / photography by James Gustin
styling by Theresa DeMaria / hair and makeup by Leanna Ernest
Shelby Caparelli says wellness was always top of mind when she was growing up in Lake Forest—in part from watching her father run his Marshall’s 584 Strength Training Studio. “Seeing his commitment to helping clients build and maintain their strength ignited my own desire to pursue a career in health and !tness,” says Caparelli, who left her 15-year corporate career as an Executive Assistant at a private equity !rm in Chicago to pursue !tness full-time as an instructor at Toned Yoga in Lake Blu". “Taking that leap changed everything. I love that I'm able to play a small role in helping members feel strong, con!dent and ready to take on their day, in the 45 minutes we’re together in class.” She moved back to Lake Forest with her husband in 2018 with a dream of giving their future family the same meaningful experience she had as a child. “I have so many fond memories,” Caparelli adds. “Soon after moving back, we welcomed our two sweet boys—Max (5) and Leo (3.5)—who keep us busy and permanently tired!” She credits her family’s love and support for making this new chapter possible. “ is is really just the beginning!” Caparelli took time out of her busy schedule recently to share a few of her favorite things.
Next passport stamp will be? Italy for a trip to Tuscany. Best winter beauty hack? Hydrafacials at Terrasse's in Lake Forest. Favorite candy? Milk chocolate-covered almonds. Favorite Lake Blu or Lake Forest restaurant? Le Colonial. I crave the spicy chicken stir fry. What do you listen to when driving? My Toned Yoga playlist for the week. Fashion brand or item you can't live without? HYDROJUG. It goes where I go. Favorite way to stay t? Weight training, teaching, and taking !tness classes; balancing macronutrients. What’s at the top of your bucket list for 2026? Seeing Backstreet Boys in Las Vegas at the Sphere with my girlfriends. Favorite way to celebrate Valentine’s Day? Candlelit dinner with my husband that includes a heart-shaped pizza from Lou Malnati’s. Best way to beat the winter blahs? Weekends at the Jump Zone with my kids ... just kidding! Hands down, it’s a girls night out. Celebrity you most admire? Leonardo DiCaprio. From Titanic onward, he’s always chosen roles in movies that leave a mark. Band or musician you can’t stop listening to? Golden, by K-Pop Demon Hunters— not by choice, but thanks to my 5 year old. Dream car? Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon. Favorite way to spend a day o ? Running errands in peace. Added bonus is a massage at Flotstone in Lake Blu" Best piece of advice you ever received? "Get comfortable with being uncomfortable." In other words, recognizing that comfort can lead to stagnation, while discomfort pushes you to learn and achieve your goals.
Next passport stamp will be? Italy for a trip to Tuscany.
Favorite Lake Blu or Lake Forest restaurant? Le Colonial.
What’s at the top of your bucket list for 2026? Seeing Backstreet Boys in Las Vegas at the Sphere with my girlfriends.
Favorite way to celebrate Valentine’s Day? Candlelit dinner with my husband that includes a heart-shaped pizza from Lou Malnati’s.
Dream car? Mercedes-Benz G-Wagon.
The Portrait
Shelby Caparelli wears Cinq a Sept from Neiman Marcus Northbrook.
STEVEN ESPOSITO
PRESIDENT & MANAGING DIRECTOR
YELLOWSTONE WEALTH MANAGEMENT
Steven Esposito is the President & Managing Partner at Yellowstone Wealth Management.
Esposito first discovered his passion for finance in high school when a stock market class sparked his lifelong interest in investing. at early curiosity set him on a path that has become a distinguished career. In 1983 he began as a financial advisor at a time when trades were handwritten, markets were smaller, and client relationships were deeply personal.
Since then, the industry has changed dramatically. Today’s wealth management landscape is increasingly digital, algorithmic, and impersonal. roughout four decades of bull runs and bear markets, Esposito has remained focused on what matters most: providing clients with clarity, confidence, and the experience of a seasoned veteran.
As founder of Yellowstone Wealth Management, affiliated with Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network, Esposito offers the best of both worlds—personalized, boutique-level service powered by the capabilities of a leading financial institution. is model allows his team to deliver customized advice, with the resources and technology to match. His steady approach and hands-on style have earned him the trust of multiple generations of families.
Esposito’s market insight and commentary have been featured on WGN-TV/Radio, WBBM Radio, ABC, NBC, and Fox News. His clients know they can count on him—not just for expert guidance, but for accessibility, responsiveness, and unwavering commitment.
rough changing times, Esposito remains a constant: a trusted advisor devoted to helping clients preserve, grow, and feel confident in their financial futures.
For more information, please visit yellowstonewm.com.
Steven Esposito’s minimum account value starts at $1,000,000. Investment products and services are offered through Wells Fargo Advisors Financial Network, LLC (WFAFN), Member SIPC. Yellowstone Wealth Management is a separate entity from WFAFN. Yellowstone Wealth Management is located at 100 N. Field Drive, Suite 120 in Lake Forest, 224-880-0850, yellowstonewm.com
French Country Pâté
words and photography by
Monica Kass Rogers
When friends come over for a social gathering, nothing goes faster than the charcuterie board. I cover mine with ne cheeses, cured meats, olives, dried fruits, and nuts, often wishing these expensive treats went a bit further. Although I’d considered it, the idea of making my own pâtés seemed just out of reach. So, I was delighted to nd David Leite’s easy-to-follow adaptation of a classic country pâté like those in my vintage cooking books. Altered just a bit, our version makes two lovely 3/4-quart pâtés—plenty for your next party. Feel free to play around with the spice blend, substituting allspice for the cloves for example, or leaving out the mace or juniper. Just be sure to keep the pepper, thyme, nutmeg and ginger in there. Serve the nished pâté with cornichons, whole grain mustard, and crusty bread.
MAKES 2, ¾-QUART PÂTÉS
INGREDIENTS
EQUIPMENT:
• 2 terrines, ¾-quart (I used Le Creuset Stoneware Pâté Terrines with Press)
• Meat grinder attachment for stand mixer
FOR THE SEASONING BLEND:
• 1 Tbsp white peppercorns
• 4 dried bay leaves
• 1 tsp dried juniper berries
• ½ Tbsp paprika
• 2 tsp dried thyme leaves
• 1 ½ tsp nutmeg (1small nutmeg, freshly ground)
INSTRUCTIONS
PRE-PREP: Place the bowl of a stand mixer in the fridge to chill. Place chicken livers and pork shoulder chunks in freezer to quick chill.
MAKE SEASONING BLEND: Place peppercorns, bay leaves, and juniper berries in a spice or co ee grinder and pulse to a ne powder. Remove to a bowl and stir in remaining spices. You will use just a half teaspoon of the blend for the recipe, so there will be some left over for next time. Set aside.
PREP PÂTÉ MOLDS: Line two 3/4-quart terrines with plastic wrap, leaving a few inches of overhang all around. Now, line the terrines with bacon slices, letting the
• 1 ½ tsp mace
• 3 tsp powdered ginger
• 1 tsp ground clove
FOR THE PÂTÉ:
• 12 to 14 slices bacon
• 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder, with some fat and marbling, cut into 1-inch chunks
• ½ cup fresh chicken livers, trimmed of veins and connective tissues
• ½ medium white onion, nely diced
ends of the bacon strips overhang the sides of the terrines. Set aside.
MAKE PÂTÉ: Preheat oven to 325 degrees. Remove chilled stand mixer bowl from fridge. Place mixer bowl in a bowl of ice in kitchen sink. With meat grinder attached and tted with 3/8-inch die, set stand mixer with grind attachment extended over the bowl in the sink. Grind the chilled chunks of pork. Replace the 3/8-inch die with the 1/8-inch die in the grinder attachment. Leaving the bowl in the sink, remove 1/3 of the pork you just ground, placing it in a new bowl. Add onion, garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, and ½ teaspoon of the seasoning blend. Remove the chicken livers from the freezer and add those to the mixture. Now grind this chicken liver mixture back
THE DISH
to make ½ cup
• 6 cloves garlic, minced to make 2 Tbsp
• 1 cup fresh at leaf parsley leaves, chopped to make ½ cup
• 2 Tbsp kosher salt
• 2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
• 2 Tbsp our
• 2 large eggs
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 3 Tbsp brandy
• 1 cup diced smoked ham
• ½ cup pistachio nuts
into the bowl with the remaining 2/3 of the ground pork. Blend eggs, our, cream, and brandy and stir in. Add chopped ham and pistachios and mix well until sticky. Divide pâté mixture between the two terrines. Fold overhanging portions of bacon strips back over the top of the pâtés. Add an extra strip or two of bacon to cover any exposed portions of pâté. Fold plastic wrap aps over the bacon. Place lids on terrines and fully wrap each terrine with foil
COOK PÂTÉS: Place terrines in a deep roasting pan. With rack in center position place pan on rack. Fill pan with 2 inches very hot water or enough so that water comes ½ way up the sides of the terrines. Cover pan with foil. Carefully close oven. Cook for 1 hour and 30 minutes or until internal temperature of pâté reaches 145 degrees. Remove pâtés from water bath. Drain water. Remove foil and lids from terrines and place terrines back in pan. Cut a thick piece of cardboard to t inside edges and on top of each pâté. Place heavy weights on top of cardboard to compress pâtés in fridge overnight. (Do not skip this step.)
To serve, remove weights and cardboard. Flip pâtés onto serving board, remove plastic wrap, and slice.
Behind the Scenes
Beth Wolf wears Giorgio Armani from Neiman Marcus Northbrook.
California native Beth Wolf has earned two Je nominations for her directing work at Citadel Theatre in Lake Forest. This month, she is taking on a provocative play that challenges the tricky politics of college admissions.
words by Bronte Starling / photography by Maria Ponce styling by Theresa DeMaria / hair and makeup by Leanna Ernest
GROWING UP IN THE ENTERTAINMENT
MECCA of southern California, Beth Wolf says she had “no designs on being a director.”
Her dream was to be on stage as an actor—a goal that led her to study theater at Northwestern University. She enjoyed some success there, performing in plays on campus and in Chicago. However, she had a big decision to make after graduating from Northwestern with a double major in theater and gender studies.
“I was faced with a choice of whether to stay in Chicago or go home to L.A.,” says Wolf, explaining that she knew if she left then, she may never return. “So, I stayed, went on some auditions, and took improv classes.” e decision changed her life in more ways than one. It was at iO Chicago (formerly known as Improv Olympics) that Wolf would meet husband and fellow actor, Dave Urlakis. Several years later, after performing in theaters in and around Chicago, a friend asked her to go behind the scenes and direct a small festival project.
It was what she now calls an epiphany moment.
perfectly with my other projects,” says Wolf, who commutes back and from her home in Chicago to Lake Forest. “People think of Chicago as being the center of everything but there’s some really great work happening outside the city center. Citadel is really exemplary of that.”
Written by Joshua Harmon, the play for this year’s “winter slot” is likely to inspire some challenging conversations. Set at an elite prep school, Admissions explores the complicated truths that surface around selective enrollment programs and what they can mean for Ivy League dreams.
“I’m really excited about this play because it is challenging,” she says, adding. “I will also say candidly that it’s challenging for me on a personal level as well. I have two children. ey’re younger than the teenagers in the play but in a few more years, I’ll be in the same position in wanting the best for my kids.”
We’ve reached over 20,000 audience members over the years and it’s something I’m really proud of.
“ at’s when I realized that I’m better at this job than being an actor,” Wolf says, explaining how that one project changed the direction of her career and ultimately led her to Lake Forest’s awardwinning Citadel eatre.
“I was incredibly grateful that a dear friend of mine spoke my name in a room with [Citadel founder] Scott Phelps,” she continues. “He was looking for some new directors to ll out a season and asked if she knew anyone. It was out of that initial meeting that he hired me to direct e Roommate.” at was 2019 and Wolf has since directed two more plays at Citadel—earning Joseph Je erson Award nominations for best director for Silent Sky and Outside Mulligar. When we spoke to Wolf late year, she was getting ready for rehearsals of her fourth play at Citadel, Admissions, which opens on February 13.
“By accident, this winter slot has become my Citadel slot. Every show I’ve directed for them has been in this same slot, which works
When she’s not directing at Citadel or working as an acting coach, Wolf runs Midsommer Flight—a theater company that has been bringing Shakespeare to Chicago parks since 2012. She also cofounded and is the former Artistic Director of Promethean eatre Ensemble.
“With Midsommer Flight, we went from one park to six parks,” explains Wolf, who serves as Producing Artistic Director. “We’ve reached over 20,000 audience members over the years and it’s something I’m really proud of. e Shakespeare work makes my other work stronger and vice versa.”
Decades after that fateful decision to make the Chicago area her home, she’s left with nothing but gratitude for the opportunities she has both received and created for other actors—particularly in her work as director at Citadel eatre.
“Citadel has a dedicated audience base and it attracts wonderful talent,” Wolf adds. “I feel really lucky that they keep asking me back.”
Admissions will run at Citadel eatre from February 13 to March 15. For more information, visit citadeltheatre.org.
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Leading with Heart
Heidi Clifton walks Lake Forest Open Lands wearing an Alix of Bohemia coat and Linda Richards hat from The Lake Forest Shop.
Lake Forest’s Heidi Cli on, board president and tireless volunteer, is reshaping community engagement and helping feed Chicago’s most vulnerable.
words by Ann Marie Scheidler / photography by James Gustin styling by Theresa DeMaria / hair and makeup by Leanna Ernest
FROM THE MINUTE YOU SIT DOWN with Lake Forest’s Heidi Clifton, it’s clear that she lives her life the same way she gives her time—generously and joyfully.
Clifton currently serves as president of the Lake Forest Open Lands Association (LFOLA) Associate Board, a role she naturally stepped into after years of involvement. But even before she held that title, she was immersed in the organization’s mission.
“I’ve always wanted to contribute because I think Open Lands is such a gem in our community,” she says. “It’s not something many towns have.”
In her rst year as president, Clifton has brought a fresh, lively energy to the board— one rooted in connection, education, and getting people back out on the land. Instead of traditional classroom-style meetings, she has reimagined the gatherings as experiences.
ink sunset hikes at Middlefork Farm; family-friendly outdoor meetups; barbecues after board activities; and educational walks with longtime LFOLA experts. Her goal? To make stewardship feel social and accessible.
“It’s been fun to get the board outside and really integrate more families into our efforts,” she says. “We want people to understand the preserves and to really know them. Because once you’re out there, you fall in love with what we have.”
Under her guidance, the Associate Board is seeing an in ux of younger families—crucial for the organization’s longterm future. With programs, camps, and volunteer opportunities for kids, Clifton sees LFOLA as a bridge between generations—inspiring young parents to foster a new relationship with the preserved spaces in their backyard.
But as meaningful as her LFOLA work is, Clifton shares her heart with Meals on Wheels Chicago (MoWC)—one that carries a deeply personal story.
Last October, she chaired the organization’s largest annual fundraiser, the Celebrity Chef Ball, an event she had led twice before. But this time was di$erent, as she chaired it alongside her husband, Jim, who recently joined the MoWC board. His background in nance, paired with her creativity, relationships, and years of experience, proved to be a powerful combination. Together, with the help of their amazing planning committee, they restructured sponsorships and brought in new corporate partners. e result was unprecedented: MoWC raised more than $1 million.
“It was incredible,” Clifton says. “Rais-
Heidi and Jim Clifton
ing over $1 million dollars was the rst time in MoWC history and we couldn’t be prouder.”
But the most unforgettable moment of the night came when Clifton shared the story of her grandfather, Charlie, who received Meals on Wheels after a long hospitalization in the early 1990s.
“He left the hospital without his voice and without his wife,” she says, o ering how her grandmother had passed away while he was ill. “We were living an hour away from my grandpa, and we couldn’t be there every day. Getting him Meals on Wheels gave him dignity, independence, and it gave our family peace.”
Clifton’s parents ew in for last year’s Celebrity Chef Ball, not knowing their family’s story would be featured.
“My Mom was so surprised,” Clifton says gently. “It meant everything for her to see how Grandpa Charlie’s story has had an impact on the lives of so many.”
Before Clifton took on the role as event chair,
"It meant everything for (Mom) to see how Grandpa Charlie’s story has had an impact on the lives of so many."
she played a vital role behind-the-scenes as the chef liaison, working directly with Michelinstarred, James Beard–recognized, and awardwinning chefs to design the multi-course menus that make the fundraiser one of Chicago’s most celebrated food events.
“I work with all the chefs directly,” she says with a knowing laugh. “ $e ticket price is high, but the experience is extraordinary. Each pod (3 tables of 12) is assigned a di erent team of three chefs who work together to create a six-course meal right in front of guests, which makes it one of the best culinary nights in the city.”
Her eyes light up when she talks about it. It’s clear how meaningful this work is to her.
Clifton’s creativity doesn’t stop there. Since 2017, she has quietly raised more than $65,000 for MoWC through her photography business, donating a portion of every session fee—and often receiving direct donations from families she photographs.
“It’s a great trade,” she says. “People get their holiday card photos, and I have the opportunity to raise money for those who need it.”
When asked why she gives so tirelessly to LFOLA, to Meals on Wheels, and to the community—Clifton answers with conviction.
“Every human being deserves dignity,” she says. “Whether it’s protecting the land we all share or making sure a senior can stay independent in their own home, that’s what matters. $at’s why I do what I do.”
Heidi Clifton as a girl with her Grandpa Charlie
Heidi and Jim Clifton chaired this year’s Celebrity Chef’s Ball, raising over $1 million dollars for Meals on Wheels Chicago.
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Shannon Dey wears Carolina Herrera from Neiman Marcus Northbrook
The
Reel Deal
Educator Shannon Dey turns a side passion into a growing visual storytelling platform for businesses, nonprofits, and families alike.
words by Ann Marie Scheidler / photography by Maria Ponce styling by Theresa DeMaria / hair and makeup by Leanna Ernest
WHEN LAKE BLUFF’S SHANNON DEY hits record on her phone, something unusual happens. Everyday life— whether a beautifully designed powder room, a mother and child mixing cookie dough, or a tness instructor greeting her class—suddenly feels cinematic. at instinct, that quiet ability to see what others miss, is the foundation of e Reel North Shore—a passion project that has quickly become one of the most sought-after creative services for small businesses, designers, and families across the North Shore.
But Dey never set out to start a business. In fact, she’ll tell you she “stumbled into it.”
A career educator with degrees from Marquette University and Teachers College at Columbia University, Dey has always been a storyteller. She teaches English, creates multimedia projects with her students, and studies how art deepens our understanding of literature.
“I’ve always been drawn to noticing things slowly and intentionally,” Dey says. “It’s about building a relationship with what you’re looking at so you can see it in a deeper way.” at skill—of paying attention—became the seed of her future business.
Long before Instagram reels existed, Dey was the friend who made iMovie compilations from weekend adventures. Later, while living in New York, she captured snowy walks through Central Park, street jazz musicians, and everyday snap-
shots of life in the city.
“I love that I can look back at those memories,” she says. “ e visuals and sounds bring me right back to that moment in time.”
After her family moved to Lake Blu , Dey began documenting their home renovation on her personal Instagram—simply because she found
Shannon Dey with her muse, son Teddy
beauty in the details. She posted a reel of her son’s bathroom remodel, set it to music, and hit publish.
Her neighbor, designer Katy Evans, messaged almost instantly: “You need to teach me how to do that.”
!at comment led to a casual lming session. Which led to another. And another.
Within weeks, Dey created a separate Instagram account dedicated to short-form video. She named it !e Reel North Shore, posted a call to action for designers, and soon found herself working with clients like interior designer Annie Liddle.
“ !e idea was never to be an in uencer,” Dey explains. “I don’t want my page to be about me. I want it to be about what I see— the light, the movement, the emotion.”
What makes !e Reel North Shore immediately recognizable is its mood: soft, warm, and unhurried. It is intentionally the opposite of noisy, fast-cut, trendy content.
“I was trying to break away from what Instagram wanted,” Dey explains, acknowledging that logic doesn’t really make sense when she wanted her account to be successful. “But my hope was to create something that o ered people ease—something beautiful and calm in the middle of all the noise.”
Her early reels were interiors-focused, but she quickly realized where the real joy existed.
“I literally grin ear to ear whenever there are people in the footage,” she says. “I love capturing those tiny moments— someone hugging a friend, a parent reaching for their child. When do we ever get to see ourselves in moments like that? When I lm one of those, it’s like bottling up a feeling.”
!ose small, human gestures have become Dey’s hallmark.
What began as a few practice reels for friends has grown into a steady stream of clients—interior designers, tness studios, boutiques, estheticians, community organizations, and more.
While Dey still teaches, !e Reel North Shore has given her a creative outlet she didn’t realize she needed.
“As a new mom, I needed something beyond work and motherhood,” she says. “ !is has been empowering. I never thought I would create a business.”
Entrepreneurship also exposed her to a community of women she nds endlessly inspiring.
“Almost everyone I work with is a working mom or entrepreneur,” she says.
“ !eir energy and passion motivate me every day.”
Dey dreams of lming newborn nursery moments— tiny toes, warm light, quiet mornings. She also hopes to continue expanding into product work and brand storytelling. And yes, she unapologetically follows Architectural Digest home tours for fun.
“ !at would be the dream,” she laughs. “To lm AD home tour. Someday!”
As she prepares for baby number two this summer, Dey plans to continue balancing teaching, motherhood, and a business that has grown both organically and beautifully.
“ !e Reel North Shore allows me to capture moments people themselves don’t see, and I get to share those with them,” she says. “How lucky am I?”
To learn more, visit @thereelnorthshore on Instagram
Shannon Dey at work
Shannon Dey's ability to capture the little moments is the hallmark of her work.
Fourth-Generation Philanthropist
Maddie Dugan
Maddie Dugan—granddaughter of A.B. Dick Jr.— continues a proud family legacy of giving through her work on the Women’s Board of Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital scholarship committee.
words by Bronte Starling / photography by Maria Ponce styling by Theresa DeMaria / hair and makeup by Leanna Ernest
WHEN A 14-YEAR-OLD MADELEINE “Maddie”
Bronson Dugan began working as a candy striper at Lake Forest Hospital back in 1965, she admits to being somewhat oblivious to the role her family had in building the state-of-the-art facility.
In her mind, she was merely following in the footsteps of her mother, Helen Dick Bronson, and grandmother Helen Aldrich Dick—who had been volunteering at this hospital and at Rush Presbyterian Hospital for decades.
Dugan says she was probably in her 20s when she learned that it was her own grandfather—A.B. Dick Jr.—who convinced her great-grandmother to donate 60 acres of the family’s estate on Deerpath Road, Westmoreland Farm, to build a new hospital for the people of Lake Forest.
“I didn’t really know the history of the property and the family’s gift when I was working as a candy striper,” says Dugan, who continues to serve what is now Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital as a volunteer and as a member of its Women’s Board. “ at was just a thing to do when you are a teenager in Lake Forest. I started at 14 and continued on vacations from boarding school and college. When I came back in 1976, I started up again and have been at it ever since.”
One of Dugan’s passion projects is helping future health care professionals through the Women’s Board scholarship committee. Among the ve scholarships being o ered for 2026 is one established in 1952 in honor of her late grandfather, A.B. Dick Jr. and another established in 2009 in memory of her mother, Helen Dick Bronson.
“My family has been involved in this scholarship program since it started over 60 years ago,” says Dugan, who joined the Women’s Board in 1977. “In that time, these funds have helped countless employees and community members pursue advanced degrees in various medical elds. My vision is to see it continue to grow to help even more students.”
Scholarships are made possible through private donations and fundraisers such as the annual spring bene t being held April 18 at Shore Acres Country Club.
“ ese nancial gifts were created to promote the education of young men and women who want to go into medicine,” says Dugan. “We’ve also been able to help sta who wanted to further their education and get more advanced degrees in nursing, radiology, or medicine and that’s been wonderful too.”
While funds are awarded based on need and merit within speci c guidelines for each scholarship, Du-
A.B. Dick Jr
Building A Healthier Tomorrow
Five 2026 scholarships o ered by the Woman’s Board of Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital help fund health care careers.
Since its founding more than 75 years ago, the Women’s Board of Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest has awarded more than 1,150 higher education scholarships to employees, their children, and Lake Forest Hospital volunteers who are pursuing careers in the health care eld.
e deadline to apply for the following 2026 scholarships is February 15.
• e A. B. Dick Jr. Scholarship, established in 1952, is named for the rst chairman of Lake Forest Hospital Board of Directors. ese scholarship awards range from $1,500 to $2,000 for each recipient.
• e Marion Warner Hodgkins Scholarship was established in honor of the rst president and founder of the Women’s Board. is scholarship awards up to $5,000 to a scholarship applicant who shows exceptional talent and promise.
• e Helen Dick Bronson Scholarship was established in 2009 in memory of the daughter of A. B. Dick Jr., Helen Dick Bronson. An amount from $2,500 to $4,000 will be awarded to a scholarship applicant who is currently employed at Lake Forest Hospital.
• e Christina Schulte Fisher Scholarship was established in 2007 to honor the exceptional volunteer service of Mrs. Fisher. ese scholarships each range in amount from $1,750 to $3,500 and are awarded to as many as three recipients per year.
• e Susan omas Skinner Scholarship was established in 2024 to honor Sue and her commitment to Lake Forest Hospital and the community. Sue serves as an honorary member of the Women’s Board. Recipients of these scholarships will be awarded up to $5,000.
Applicants are advised to submit only one application as the committee will determine which scholarships are the best match. Two reference forms are required along with the application.
For more information, visit lfhwomensboard.nm.org/scholarships.
gan cites two examples when the recipients had a meaningful personal connection to her family.
“A couple of sta members in the cancer department who took care of my mother when she was struggling with cancer subsequently applied for scholarships and it was wonderful to be able to help them,” she explains. “And then this last year, we gave the Helen Dick Bronson scholarship in my mother’s memory to the daughter of a physical therapist who helped rehabilitate me when I had my knees replaced. I recognized the name and realized who she was. She was very deserving of the scholarship so I was very happy to give it to someone we knew.”
In addition to her work on the scholarship committee, Dugan volunteers at the front desk of the hospital one day each week—greeting patients, pushing wheelchairs, and answering questions as they arise. Her cousin, John Dick, is also involved with the Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital at the board level. His father, A.B. Dick, III, was on the board of directors and served as president of the board for many years.
It’s a family legacy she’s proud to continue.
“I never knew my great-grandparents and my grandfather died when I was 3. But I knew my grandmother and her philanthropic work very well,” says Dugan, who has also held board positions for other community organizations, including Allendale Shelter Club, Elawa Farm Foundation, and the History Center of Lake Forest-Lake Blu . “I remember her volunteering in the Rush gift shop every week. She also hosted Lake Forest Hospital Women’s Board teas at her home on Lake Road. We were always involved in Lake Forest Hospital on all levels and these are memories I hold dear.”
Helen Dick Bronson
2024 scholarship award winners
SOCIAL LIFE ALLENDALE YOUTH BOARD
POLAR PLUNGE
photography by Widia Viti and Max Van Dusen
On November 22, 150 plungers and stair climbers took to Forest Park Beach to raise funds at Allendale Youth Board’s (AYB) rst annual Polar Plunge. Friends and family turned out to show support and enjoy hot chocolate, cider, and donuts. Founded on the concept of students helping students, AYB raised more than $15k for a program to help prepare students for life after graduation. Allendale is a school in Lake Villa supporting the behavioral, emotional, and mental health needs of children in need. allendale4kids.org
Kathleen Brill, Whitley Herbert, Maureen Bennett, Dawn Talma
Allendale Youth Board members and friends
Allendale Youth Board m embers and friends
Megan Olson, Mimi and Michael Doyle
David Popo , Charlie Sommers, Anthony Popo , Grant Gundlach
Henry Anderson, Will Doyle
Tommy O’Neil, Chris Bennett
Phoebe Reaumond, Whitley Herbert, Karen Anderson, Chris Bennett
SOCIAL LIFE
CELEBRITY CHEF BALL
photography by Ian McLeod and Ken Carl Photography
Meals on Wheels Chicago (MoWC) hosted its 35th annual Celebrity Chef Ball on Friday, October 24, uniting more than 50 of the city’s top chefs and hundreds of supporters to raise vital funds for home-delivered meals and wellness programs that serve vulnerable seniors and people with disabilities. Led by event CoChairs Heidi and Jim Clifton of Lake Forest, the evening surpassed its $1 million fundraising goal, marking a record-breaking year for Meals on Wheels Chicago. mealsonwheelschicago.org
Joe Magliochetti, Brian DeNicolo, Veronica DeNicolo, Courtney Magliochetti
Josh and Raquel Jackson, Courtney and Pat Turner
Lauren and Nate Kelly, Raquel and Josh Jackson
John Plant, Cory Sexson
Jim and Heidi Clifton
Michael and Jennifer Fiocco
Lindsay and Lou Jon Nero
Brenda Murray and Brent Jones
Katie and Mike Salgat
SOCIAL LIFE
FUNDRAISER FOR THE FERE FAMILY
photography by Widia Viti and Max Van Dusen
The Racquet Club of Lake Blu hosted a highly successful fundraiser for one of its junior protégés, Gabriel Fere, on December 7. e evening drew 130 guests for tennis, entertainment, and community spirit. e highlight came during opening remarks by Master of Ceremonies Rod Schroeder. Gabriel, diagnosed with stage 4 Sarcoma in May, was discharged from Lurie Children’s Hospital to attend. His arrival received a long standing ovation, a testament to the community’s support. gofundme.com/f/stand-with-gabriel-and-his-family
Sarah Taylor, Janie Priola, Phoebe Hickie, Keala Hallerberg
Jake Nadeau, Gri n “The Goat” Eckert, Max Axus
The Fere and Doux families
The Junior Tennis Group
Sarah Halperin, Giana Paradowski, Nina Loiacano, Charlie Axus
The Taylor Family
SOCIAL LIFE
HOLIDAY BOUTIQUE
photography by Randy Belice
The Women’s Board of Northwestern Medicine Lake Forest Hospital held its 46th Annual Holiday Boutique Preview Party at e Forester Hotel on November 20. Proceeds from the event will bene t Palliative Medicine and Supportive Care Service. lfhwomensboard.nm.org
Elizabeth Alkon, Lisa Chang, Ingrid Michael, Lindsay Bianco, Mila Sobinsky, Cristina Abbagnaro
Brianna Ma oli, Shannon Shader, Michelle Taubensee, Lindsey Anderson, Erin Henkel, Marie Wood
Maddie Dugan, Rachel Karnani, Felicia Elliott
SOCIAL LIFE PADDLE PARTY
FOR A PURPOSE
photography by Widia Viti
On November 21, more than 150 guests gathered at Exmoor Country Club for a sold out Paddle Party for a Purpose in honor of Team Ryan Scott O’Connor. e event celebrated Ryan, an 11-year-old from Lake Blu who lives with Angelman syndrome, and brought the community together for paddle, dinner, drinks, and live music. Signi cant funds were raised in support of the Foundation for Angelman Syndrome erapeutics (FAST) and its pursuit of a cure. cureangelman.org
Leslie Leonardi, Trish Sheridan, Liz Aktar, Elizabeth O’Connor, (Ryan), Maggie Topalian, Mary Anderson, Mary Claire Kadison, Carrie Oates
Kate Burke, Shelly Reynolds, Kim Danciu, Ashley Madson
Julie Gottshall, Liz White, Maribeth Corbett, Ellen Ley
Adam Freda, Scott O’Connor, Tessa Schenkel, Beth O’Connor
Aram and Maggie Topalian, Catherine Birch
Quinn Ford, Caitlin Ford, Steve Jadison
Elizabeth, Patty & Ben O’Connor
Richard and Stephen’s Kramer
Kristen Starr, Lauren Kuetemeyer, Shirley Serbin
SOCIAL LIFE
HOLIDAY HOME TOUR
photography by Ian McLeod
The Lake Blu History Museum’s annual Holiday Home Tour welcomed a record turnout on December 7. Guests wandered through festively decorated homes and browsed holiday boutiques discovering everything from elegant home accents and ne jewelry, to gourmet treats. lakeblu history.org
Jude Sharp, Susan Sands, Sharon Eklaund, Jean Mills, Holli Volkert
Maria Etling, Leslie Mulso , Dawn Kasten, Anne Hardy
Kelly Pasquesi, Ann Marie Colletti, Gillian Goodfriend, Ann Kiesling, Kate Hanson
Jessica Corcoran, Brooke Schiewe, Ashley Latta, Mary Beth Marsh
Jen Manning, Krista Hugill, Morgan Noon
Jeanine Sek Chyna, Megan Sek
Amy Marsch, Biana Catalano
Mary Knochel, Brittany Asta
Ann Marie McGoldrick, Brittny Walters, Megan Crowe, Emily Frame, Haley Ardell
SOCIAL LIFE
LFPF HOLIDAY PARTY
photography by Ian McLeod
The Lake Forest Preservation Foundation celebrated two milestones last month—its own 50th anniversary and the 100th anniversary of F. Scott Fitzgerald’s e Great Gatsby, a novel which was shaped, in part, by the time he spent in Lake Forest. e holiday event was held at the former home of Ginevra King, Fitzgerald’s inspiration for Daisy Buchanan. lfpf.org
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Welcome 2026 with a Fresh Look
This spring, Loomcra Textiles continues to help North Shore homes feel fresh, functional, and beautifully designed.
As 2026 begins, Loomcraft Textiles is pleased to continue serving the Lake Forest and Lake Blu community with inspired design solutions that make homes feel both beautiful and functional. With spring on the horizon, it’s the ideal time for homeowners to refresh their spaces with thoughtful updates that deliver impact without the cost of moving. ere’s no need to buy a new home—Loomcraft helps clients achieve a complete makeover within their existing space.
For more than 35 years, Loomcraft Textiles has been the North Shore’s trusted destination for custom window treatments, performance fabrics, and home décor projects. Its 16,000-square-foot showroom in Vernon Hills (645 Lakeview Parkway) has been fully reimagined, introducing brand-new spring displays that highlight the latest window treatments, innovative performance fabrics, and elevated design concepts for modern living. A single visit to Loomcraft can save homeowners thousands, o ering high-end results without the high-end price tag.
Spring signals renewal, and Loomcraft’s newest collections make it easy to lighten and elevate interiors. e showroom features more than 5,000 fabric options sourced from the world’s leading suppliers, including airy linens, sophisticated sheers, plush velvets, and durable performance fabrics designed for busy households. ese materials balance beauty and practicality, making them ideal for living rooms, dining spaces, bedrooms, and whole-home updates. Whether working alongside an interior designer, collaborating with a decorator, or seeking guidance from Loomcraft’s experienced in-house team, clients enjoy a seamless and inspiring design process. Newly curated displays allow visitors to easily visualize custom drapery, Roman shades, reupholstered furniture, and other bespoke solutions tailored to their homes.
What’s New at Loomcraft?
• Fresh Spring Displays oughtfully designed vignettes showcasing the latest window treatments and fabric pairings.
• Expanded Focus on Performance Fabrics—Stylish, durable textiles ideal for everyday living.
• Renovated Showroom Experience—A studio-style environment designed to inspire creativity and con dence.
• World-Class Workroom—Custom window treatments, upholstery, and bedding crafted with exceptional quality and e$cient turnaround times.
• Exceptional Value—Among the best custom window treatment pricing on the North Shore.
Loomcraft remains eager to help homeowners create spaces they love without breaking the bank. e design experience is collaborative, approachable, and tailored to each client—whether re ning a single room or reimagining an entire home.
Visit Loomcraft Textiles
Homeowners are invited to explore the showroom which underwent a recent $70,000 renovation including new fabrics, new work tables, and more, and discover how easy it can be to refresh a home for spring and beyond. e showroom is open Monday through Saturday, 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., with personalized home appointments available. Mention Forest & Blu to receive 20 percent o custom labor orders.
Loomcraft Textiles is located at 645 Lakeview Parkway in Vernon Hills, 847-680-1119, vhstore@loomcraft.com.
The Last Word
Paws for a Cause
On February 27, Paws for Patrick celebrates its five-year anniversary with the “Love & Legacy” benefit— honoring the life of a Lake Forest teen and raising key funds to help improve the mental health of young people through the comfort and connection of animals.
edited by Bronte Starling / illustration by Tom Bachtell
In 1764, Voltaire’s Dictionnaire Philosophique famously described the faithful canine as the “best possible friend of man.” e French philosopher was the "rst among his 18th century contemporaries to recognize the unique emotional bond between dogs and their humans. From that point forward, dogs of the world became known as loyal companions, useful helpers, and a source of comfort in good times and bad. For Patrick Roemer of Lake Forest, that four-pawed “best friend” was named Cici. It is through this relationship that Patrick found light in times of darkness as the Lake Forest High School senior braved the challenges of depression and anxiety. In May 2020, at the age of 18, Patrick’s struggle tragically took him from the ones he loved, including parents Fronzie and Steve, and siblings, Mags and Ben. To cope with his loss and help others experience the comfort that animals brought him, the family founded Paws for Patrick—which has grown from a local tribute to a nationwide movement. According to the website, pawsforpatrick.org, the nonpro"t’s mission is to help improve the mental health of young people through the comfort and connection of animals. “Inspired by Patrick’s legacy, we connect young people living with anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges with the comforting presence of animals.”
Five years later, Paws for Patrick o ers three key programs, including an Emotional Support Animal Program that helps families access ESA letters, adoptions, and training; a erapy Dog Program that brings trained dogs into schools, mental health facilities, and community spaces; and a Facility Dog Program that places highly skilled dogs with professionals who work with youth, enhancing
therapeutic and learning environments. On Friday, February 27, Paws for Patrick invites the community to join the cause for an unforgettable night of purpose and celebration. Titled “Love & Legacy,” the annual Paws for a Cause Bene"t will be held at Loft 21 and feature a seated dinner by Jordan’s Food of Distinction, open bar, live and silent auction, and entertainment. In addition to therapy dogs greeting guests, the event (cocktail attire recommended) includes auctions packed with sought-after travel, golf, food, and spa experiences; the organization’s legendary wine pull; and mindbending entertainment by mentalist Sidney Friedman. " is night is an opportunity to honor the impact and reach of Patrick’s legacy," says Darrin Utynek, Executive Director of Paws for Patrick. "His story and the comfort he found through the connection with his dog Cici has grown into a mission that’s brought comfort, connection, and hope to tens of thousands of young people when they need it most. We can’t wait to share his story and a fabulous night with our community.” Paws for a Cause also marks a major milestone as the nonpro"t celebrates its "ve-year anniversary and the impact it has made so far—helping to improve the mental health of more than 33,000 young people nationwide. As Voltaire himself discovered all those centuries ago, a dog’s presence can be lifechanging, whether it’s through the mere wagging of a tail or the emotional connection that can provide comfort in di cult times. Paws for Patrick and its mission carry Patrick’s spirit and his love of Cici forward—transforming young lives, one animal at a time.
