N OV E M B E R 2 02 1
ARE YOU THINKING OF MOVING?
BEN CADOT, YOUR LOCAL REAL ESTATE PARTNER
HOME EVALUATION • Comparative Market Analysis
• Strategic Pricing
MARKETING STRATEGY • • • •
Free Home Staging Consultation Professional Photography • Video Tour MLS Private Market Listing • Social Media Ads Open House & More
BEN CADOT REALTOR ®
224-212-0516 ben@enchantegroup.com
enchantegroup.com
FVB @enchantehomes
Boone Creek CABINETRY & DESIGN
LIFESTYLE LETTER
NOVEMBER 2021 PUBLISHER
Michael Beightol | michael.beightol@lifestylepubs.com EDITOR
Our Season of Gratitude
Stephen Neilson | stephen.neilson@lifestylepubs.com STAFF WRITER
Christina Sikorski
"TO EVERYTHING THERE IS A SEASON, AND A TIME FOR EVERY PURPOSE
AD DESIGNER
UNDER HEAVEN." —Pete Seeger, “Turn Turn Turn,” paraphrasing Ecclesiastes 3:1.
Whitney Lockhart
I love the seasons. Growing season. Harvesting season. Football season. Outdoor
L AYO UT DESIGNER
concert season. Picnic season. Sweater season. Both seasons of Bridgerton, and certainly all nine of Seinfeld... and count me in on both seasons of Ted Lasso, and the debut season of Only Murders In the Building. Some seasons have brutally-hard starts or stops (see: Tax season); some slide in subtly, riding the weather or other shifting trends (see: Flu season). Some are species-specific (see: Mating season). While living in Arizona I experienced its three-season weather
Dani Moore CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Michael Beightol, Stephen Neilson, Christina Sikorski CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Diane Bodkin, Steve Husak, Stephen Neilson
rotation: the OMG-How-Beautiful season, the Monsoon season, and the I-Just-BurnedMy-Hands-Touching-The-Steering-Wheel season. I prefer our local version of the more traditional Spring, Summer, Fall, and (wish it were shorter!) Winter. Some seasons mount (hostile?) takeovers of bordering seasons, spawned by profit-driven marketing efforts (note Christmas season's encroachment on Thanksgiving, Halloween's swallowing the entire month of October, and Oktoberfest spanning both September and October). We all celebrate our own seasons, driven not by calendar but personal experience. To again quote the immortal Pete Seeger: "A time to build up, a time to break down; a time to dance, a time to mourn... a time to laugh, a time to weep." And, most
CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore
hopefully: "A time for peace, I swear it's not too late."
ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor
But perhaps my favorite season is grounded in Thanksgiving, and its call to us to
OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson
experience, live, and share gratitude.
AD MANAGER Chad Jensen
I'm grateful to be Editor of SW Lake for its platform to share the amazing stories of those
REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams
in our local neighborhoods. In our feature story, Christina Sikorski paints a vivid portrait of
WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell
the lives of John and Bobbi Sfire, whose efforts to address hunger in our community make a difference for so many. Also featured: 14 local residents' personal reasons for being thankful, plus a celebration of our Farm-To-Table charity dinner. Gratefully yours this season, 514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO
Stephen Neilson, Editor
ARIZONA | CALIFORNIA | COLORADO | CONNECTICUT | FLORIDA | GEORGIA IDAHO | ILLINOIS | KANSAS | MARYLAND | MASSACHUSETTS | MICHIGAN MINNESOTA | MISSOURI | MONTANA | NEVADA | NEW JERSEY NORTH CAROLINA | OHIO | OKLAHOMA | OREGON | PENNSYLVANIA SOUTH CAROLINA | TENNESSEE | TEXAS | VIRGINIA | WASHINGTON
ON THE COVER Boots-and-Bluejeans at Milk & Honey Farmstead with Bonnie Conte (Avalon Salons and VIBE) Annie Sadowski and Anna Sanfilippo.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY STEPHEN NEILSON 4
SW Lake Lifestyle | November 2021
CityLifestyle.com/SWLake
Proverbs 3:5-6 SW Lake Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the SW Lake area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in SW Lake Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.
WWW.TIMOTHYGRANTS.COM
155 N RAND RD, LAKE ZURICH (847) 726-1556 • 10 S ROSELLE RD, SCHAUMBURG (847) 524-00
155 N RAND RD, LAKE ZURICH (847) 726-1556 10 S ROSELLE RD, SCHAUMBURG (847) 524-0033
INSIDE THE ISSUE NOVEMBER 2021
FEATURES 12 Local Experiences From Antioch to Chicago and Points In Between, Check Out These Seasonal Holiday Markets.
16 Farm to Table Fun Milk & Honey Farmstead, ZIN Gastro Pub & SW Lake Host a Charity Dinner.
22 Grateful By Example John & Bobbi Sfire Living a Life of Giving Back.
28 What Gratitude Means Community Members Share Their
28
Thoughts on What Gratitude Means to Each of Them This Year.
22
16 12 DEPARTMENTS 4
Lifestyle Letter
8
Around Town
12
Local Experiences
16
Food & Wine
22 Giving Back 28 Inspired By 34 Lifestyle Calendar
! g in v gi s k n a Happy Th me to g in w o ll a r fo Thank you y to find il m a f r u o fy be apart o home. t c e f r e p e th
“Sandra was great to work with. We relocated from Wisconsin to Chicago, and she was always there for us. It was around a 3-month process, and she was always available for us. When it came time to put in an offer, she knew the market and helped us negotiate a great deal. Would highly recommend Sandra.” — J.N.
43+
$16.5M+
17 Years
TRANSACTIONS *
TOTA L S A L E S *
S ELLING RE AL E STATE
SANDRA FRAMPTON 847.207.7551 sandraframpton@atproperties.com
Source: *MRED LLC BASED ON CLOSED LISTING DATA 01/01/2021 - 10/15/2021
AROUND TOWN and Harp, while enjoying music from the Shannon Rovers Pipe Band and dancing by the Hogan, Trinity and McNulty Irish Dancers. Live music was also provided by Burnt Biscuits, The Dooley Brothers and The Chancers.
BARRINGTON FOURTH GRADERS ON THE PRAIRIE In September fourth grade students from Barrington Schools partnered with Citizens for Conservation to help care for local habitats. The “Fourth Graders on the Prairie Program” provided students with hands-on training in field studies such as seed collecting, measuring and drawing,
FIRST RESPONDERS HONORED, 9/11 REMEMBERED
and discovery walks. Before going out to the field,
Lake Zurich’s annual Rock the Block coincided
students attended presentations on the impor-
with the 20th anniversary of the terrorist attacks of
tance of prairies and identification of various prairie
September 11, 2001. The band, Bella Cain, paused
plants. Data collected by the students is shared
their concert to remember first responders. A Lake
year-over-year. (Diane Bodkin photo.)
Zurich firefighter and Lake Zurich police officer were welcomed onstage and given a standing ovation. Lake Zurich Police Chief Steve Husak said, “I have to say that the ovation and support that the officers and departments received from the crowd were overwhelming." (Steve Husak photo.)
HAWTHORN WOODS POLICE CHIEF ENDS HER WATCH After a career spanning 24 years in law enforcement, Chief Jennifer Paulus retired from the Village of Hawthorn Woods Police Department on September 30. In a letter to residents, Chief Paulus said: “During my tenure, I have enjoyed working with so many exceptional members of the law enforcement community. It has been an honor
PUTTING ON THEIR IRISH IN LONG GROVE
8
and privilege to serve the extraordinary men and women of the Police Department and the citizens
Long Grove celebrated all things Irish includ-
of Hawthorn Woods. It has been an amazing jour-
ing dancers, live music, Irish-inspired food and
ney and career, and I extend my deepest gratitude
drink, and a contest for the best Irish Dog, while
to all those people I have come to know and serve. I
noting that all dogs are Irish during Irish Days in
am proud to be the first female Police Chief in Lake
September. For the long Labor Day weekend visi-
County and the longest serving Chief in Hawthorn
tors enjoyed fish and chips, corned beef, Guinness
Woods’ history.”
SW Lake Lifestyle | November 2021
A NOTE ABOUT OUR OCTOBER BACKTO-SCHOOL STORY Sometimes as deadlines loom things that make their way into print get a wee mangled. That's what happened when we ran the wrong photo for a Lake Zurich High School student. Callie Ackerman is a freshman, following in her parents footsteps and playing volleyball as a Bear. We regret the error.
LA MULA ON LA MOVE-A In last month’s issue we celebrated the near-universal embrace of the mighty Taco, and
䄀一䐀 䌀愀瀀琀甀爀攀 琀栀攀 䴀漀洀攀渀琀℀
highlighted several places to enjoy some of the best in SW Lake. Just as our October issue hit the presses, slid into your mailbox and onto your gotta-read-it stack, and whetted your appetite for some of La Mula’s signature tacos (perhaps the delicious duck taco, or the Korean taco with skirt steak, kimchi cabbage, scallions and serrano chiles... or their straight-down-the-middlestyle tacos with ground beef, carnitas pork or short-rib barbacoa), La Mula announced that they’re moving to a new location that will feature full-service dining and a full margarita and tequila bar. Great news, La Mula! Readers, keep an eye on La Mula’s social media sites for the grand reopening announcement and their new location. Visit LaMulaMexicanGrill.com or @lamulamexicangrill on Facebook for the delicous details.
Would you like to get in touch with us? We would love to hear from you! Contact us at CityLifestyle.com/ SWLake using the Get In Touch link and let us know what you think.
匀琀攀瀀栀攀渀 一攀椀氀猀漀渀 䴀攀搀椀愀 夀伀唀刀 倀爀椀挀攀氀攀猀猀 䔀瘀攀渀琀猀Ⰰ 匀吀䔀倀䠀䔀一一䔀䤀䰀匀伀一䴀䔀䐀䤀䄀⸀䌀伀䴀 爀攀渀搀攀爀攀搀 䤀洀洀漀爀琀愀氀⸀ 倀爀漀昀攀猀猀椀漀渀愀氀 倀栀漀琀漀最爀愀瀀栀礀 愀渀搀 䌀甀猀琀漀洀 嘀椀搀攀漀 倀爀漀搀甀挀琀椀漀渀 䌀漀渀琀愀挀琀 匀琀攀瀀栀攀渀 愀琀 䴀㨀 ⠀ 䴀㨀 ⠀㠀㐀㜀⤀ 㐀㠀㜀ⴀ匀䤀一䜀 ⠀㜀㐀㘀㐀⤀ 䔀㨀 猀琀攀瀀栀攀渀渀攀椀氀猀漀渀䀀洀愀挀⸀挀漀洀 圀㨀 猀琀攀瀀栀攀渀渀攀椀氀猀漀渀洀攀搀椀愀⸀挀漀洀 琀漀 搀椀猀挀甀猀猀 栀漀眀 礀漀甀爀 甀瀀挀漀洀椀渀最 氀椀昀攀 攀瘀攀渀琀 漀爀 挀漀洀瀀愀渀礀 攀砀琀爀愀瘀愀最愀渀稀愀 挀愀渀 氀椀瘀攀 漀渀 椀渀 氀攀最攀渀搀℀ 伀渀ⴀ氀漀挀愀琀椀漀渀 瀀栀漀琀漀⼀瘀椀搀攀漀Ⰰ 倀漀爀琀爀愀椀琀甀爀攀Ⰰ 愀渀搀 洀漀爀攀⸀
CityLifestyle.com/SWLake
9
residential design & remodeling services
847.387.3088 north barrington info@briggs.design
ROCK YOUR HAIR VIBE Salon landing this November. Cool hair for vibrant people.
1217 S. RAND RD., LZ. NEXT TO LOU’S.
JOIN THE VIBE TRIBE:
CAREERS@VIBESALON.COM
VIBESALON.COM 10
SW Lake Lifestyle | November 2021
Should I follow my head, or my heart? If you’re conflicted about investing more now that the economy is strong, you’re not alone. 86% of investors surveyed for UBS Investor Watch* say the crisis still affects how they think about money. How can you overcome this inner struggle? 98% of investors tell us a comprehensive financial plan is the key to confidence in any market. Your UBS Financial Advisor can help. For some of life’s questions, you’re not alone. Together we can find an answer. Benjamin J. Miller, CFP®, CEPA® Senior Vice President– Wealth Management, USA Wealth Advisor, Senior Portfolio Manager 847-277-2124 benjamin.miller@ubs.com
Miller Wealth Management UBS Financial Services Inc. 303 East Main Street, Suite 300 Barrington, IL 60010
ubs.com/team/millerwealthmanagement
*The Conflicted Investor, 1Q2016. As a firm providing wealth management services to clients, UBS Financial Services Inc. offers investment advisory services in its capacity as an SEC-registered investment adviser and brokerage services in its capacity as an SEC-registered broker-dealer. Investment advisory services and brokerage services are separate and distinct, differ in material ways and are governed by different laws and separate arrangements. It is important that clients understand the ways in which we conduct business, that they carefully read the agreements and disclosures that we provide to them about the products or services we offer. For more information, please review the PDF document at ubs.com/relationshipsummary. Certified Financial Planner Board of Standards, Inc. owns the certification marks CFP® and Certified finanCial PlannerTM in the US. © UBS 2021. All rights reserved. UBS Financial Services Inc. is a subsidiary of UBS AG. Member FINRA/SIPC. CJ-UBS-1412753366 Exp.: 03/31/2022
Do you want to transform your overall health but not sure where to start?
THE #1 CHOICE
Artificial Christmas Trrs
Be Well 360 takes a holistic approach to wellness because every aspect of your life is connected to your overall health, well-being, and happiness. Why this approach works: We’ll create a customized wellness plan tailored to your unique goals and hormonal health. • Personalized tools to make mindful dietary choices • Support as you examine your relationships and lifestyle habits • A sustainable foundation for continued success
Let's work together! Contact me for a FREE Discovery Session: Over 200 trrs on display Enjoy countless gift ideas, trees, wreaths, and garland all in a unique Christmas wonderland setting. Treetime is a local treasure filled with friendly staff waiting to serve you and pick the perfect tree!
KRISTEN M. TODOROFF CERTIFIED HOLISTIC HEALTH COACH Be Well 360
BEWELL360.COM/LIFESTYLE KRISTEN@BEWELL360.COM 818.926.7815 bewell360holistichealth
CityLifestyle.com/SWLake
11
LOCAL EXPERIENCES
THANKFUL THIS MONTH, WE CELEBRATE THANKSGIVING, A TIME TO REMIND OURSELVES OF THE BOUNTIFUL BLESSINGS WE HAVE IN OUR LIVES. November is an opportunity to spend time with the ones we love during this holiday season and give more of ourselves to those around us.
HOLIDAY MARKETS + Hometown Gift Shop in Main Street Center is the place to shop for a wide assortment of hard-to-find holiday gifts. Learn more at ThreadsVIPShop.com. 118 S. Main Street, Wauconda + It’s the 25th anniversary of the free, outdoor Christkindl Market with unique shopping, seasonal food and mulled wine in a collectible mug. Learn more at ChristkindlMarket.com. 50 West Washington Street, Chicago + Come for twinkling lights, carolers and special visits from Santa Claus as the Village of Long Grove celebrates Vintage Holidays. Learn more at LongGrove.org. 308 Old McHenry Road, Long Grove + The Dickens Holiday Village in Antioch is a free, re-imagined holiday village to take you back to Victorian England. Learn all about it at CM.AntiochChamber.org. Kringle's Christmas Village at 510 Orchard Street, Antioch + A Ribbon Cutting will kick-off the holidays in Barrington for viewing festively decorated Holiday Windows while shopping the collection of downtown shops. 200 S. Cook Street, Barrington 12
SW Lake Lifestyle | November 2021
Photo: Stephen Neilson
scan for more city-wide tips
It’s not just what they know. It’s who they become.
Primrose School of Long Grove 3985 N. Old McHenry Road Long Grove, IL 60047 847.438.3175 | PrimroseLongGrove.com
Bring in this ad for complimentary registration. Each Primrose school is a privately owned and operated franchise. Primrose Schools is a registered trademark of Primrose School Franchising SPE, LLC. ©2019 Primrose School Franchising SPE, LLC. All rights reserved.
CityLifestyle.com/SWLake
13
as seen on
HGTV WINDYCITY REHAB
1160 Dato Lane, Wauconda, IL 60084
847-744-8176
www.rigshowerdoors.com
20% OFF any purchase of $400 or more!
Offer Expires 11/30/2021 Must book between 8/1/17 - 8/21/17
BEST OF SW LAKE –WINNER–
28-Day FRESH Start
Take CHARGE of Your Body! For a Slimmer, Happier, Healthier YOU! 12 small group personal traing sessions Train with us in studio or online Personalized workouts 30 minute nutrition success session
A Special Price for SW Lake readers for the Month of November
297 $197
First time clients only. Offer expires November 30, 2021.
$
“I FEEL I’M IN THE
BEST SHAPE OF MY LIFE. I CAN ACTUALLY SEE CHANGES IN MY BODY. MY ONLY REGRET IS THAT I DIDN’T JOIN SOONER! ”
R E S TOR ATIONF I TNE S S .C OM/F R E SH-S TAR T 847-847-1837 | restorationfitness.com
14
SW Lake Lifestyle | November 2021
Designs with you in mind
THE EVOLUTION OF INTERIOR DESIGN YOUR HOME
SHOP. DESIGN. CREATE.
DESIGNED WITH YOU IN MIND
LOREN REID SEAMAN ASID, IIDA, State Licensed
847.550.6363 | 479 ELA ROAD WWW.LRSINTERIORS.COM
Dedicated to
EXCEPTIONAL client service.
KNOWLEDGE. EXPERIENCE. COMMITMENT. Business Law • Real Estate • Trusts Estates & Probate • Tax Appeals 1699 E. Woodfield Road, Suite 400, Schaumburg, Illinois 60173
(847) 466-5280
winkler-law.com CityLifestyle.com/SWLake
15
FOOD & WINE ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY STEPHEN NEILSON
FA R M TO TA B L E F U N MILK & HONEY FARMSTEAD, ZIN GASTRO PUB AND SW LAKE HOSTED A FIRST-EVER EVENT TO RAISE FUNDS FOR LOCAL CHARITIES.
Michael Beightol, Zach and Liz Witt, Cassidy Towne & Jenny Beightol Susanne & Chad Dershaw, Sandra & Al Frampton and Renee & Tom Clark
Steve Mincica and Kristen Todoroff
Ron and Pat Niemaszyk
Michael Beightol awarded Susanne Dershaw her raffle prize
Smiles aplenty
Pat Ryan, Heather Moran & Steve Gritman
THE SUN BROKE THROUGH DAY-LONG CLOUDS TO SHINE BRIGHTLY AS GUESTS GATHERED ON A SUNDAY IN OCTOBER AT MILK & HONEY FARMSTEAD, WAUCONDA, TO SHARE A FARM TO TABLE MEAL WHILE RAISING FUNDS FOR NICASA BEHAVIORAL HEALTH SERVICES AND STAR CHARITIES. Musicians Heather Moran, Steve Gritman, Pat Ryan and SW Lake’s editor, Stephen Neilson, entertained the throng of more than 110 guests. 16
SW Lake Lifestyle | November 2021
Tom Lombardo of Diamond Dental Services
Kristen Todoroff, Be Well 360
Zach Witt from ilumen Solar Elizabeth Thielen from Nicasa
Pete Wodarz (far left) of Gardenbau Group
Co-host Bob Kryscha, ZIN Gastro Pub and Milk & Honey Farm
Glenn Starkey of STAR Charities
With guidance from co-host Bob Kryscha (ZIN Gastro Pub), students from Wauconda High School delivered plates of locally produced organic food, including roasted acorn squash, beef tenderloin and chicken limon. Conversation was lively and laughs plentiful. And then the rains came. First a soft-then-steady drizzle, followed by a thorough soaking, the crowd scrambled to make sure everybody was safe under tents.
CONTINUED >
CityLifestyle.com/SWLake
17
FOOD & WINE (CONTINUED) Sandra & Al Frampton
Lisa Gilchrist-Gritman
DJ Mikey Mike a/k/a Mike Moran
When the rain lightened, a crowd-pleasing Apple Cobbler was served. Due to dampness the band couldn’t risk plugging in, so a hero in the guise of DJ Mikey Mike (Mike Moran) emerged. Thanks to his battery powered rig, the music played on. When the last guests found their car in a pasture by the dying embers of a bonfire, it was clear a memorable night had been created by everyone there. 18
SW Lake Lifestyle | November 2021
Bergers, Slatterys, Kelly Porcaro & guest
Heather and Mike Moran
Bonnie Conte, Annie Sadowski & Anna Sanfilippo
Wauconda High volunteers vibing
Team Diamond Dental
Companies that generously sponsored the evening included American Garage Floor Systems (Wauconda), Be Well 360 (Wauconda), Diamond Dental Services (Lake Zurich), Gardenbau Group (Barrington), ilumen Solar (Lake Barrington) and Reflections in Glass (Wauconda). Special assistance came from Sharon Flaim of Catherine’s Community Closet, a not-for-profit party and event organization that provided tables, chairs, cutlery, glasses, linens, decorative items and more. Learn more at CatherinesCommunityCloset.org. CityLifestyle.com/SWLake
19
You Deserve a 5-Star Smile The Area's Premier Cosmetic and Family Dental Studio Smile Makeovers ⌔ Veneers ⌔ Invisalign ⌔ Whitening ⌔ Dental Implants ⌔ Botox Evening and Saturday Appointments ⌔ Insurance Welcomed ⌔ Kids Love Us
754 S. Rand Rd., Lake Zurich, IL ⌔ (847) 550-3134 ⌔ www.LZdentist.com
GET INSPIRED
Creating environments that celebrate our daily life Peter “Bau” Wodarz
EAT + DRINK SHOP LOCAL
View our most recent projects at gardenbaugroup.com or call 847-366-5286
City Lifestyle YOUR DIGITAL DESTINATION FOR LOCAL LIVING
20
SW Lake Lifestyle | November 2021
We are grateful to everyone who joined us for our first farm to table charity dinner! The Best Quality in Locally-Grown Organic Produce & More!
PASTURED PORK & BEEF
PASTEURIZED EGGS & POULTRY
HEMP-BASED CBD
Mention this ad for a
HALF DOZEN FRESH EGGS FOR FREE! 27451 West Illinois Route 176 Wauconda, Illinois 60084
(224) 388-6456 milkhoneyfarmstead.com
Hemp-Based CBD Products
Q UALI T Y SE R V I CE AT A R E A S ONAB LE PR I C E
ROOF REPLACEMENT, ROOF REPAIR, SIDING INSTALLATION, SIDING REPAIR, WINDOW REPLACEMENT,
10-year labor warrant y on all roofing & siding projects Wo rk cl o s e l y wi th insuran c e c omp an ie s
SOFFIT/FASCIA REPAIR, PATIO DOOR REPLACEMENT, GUT TER INSTALLATION & REPAIR
MAKING YOUR HOUSE A F A M I LY - O W N E D S I N C E 1 9 8 0 5 5 4 W. R O U T E 2 2 L A K E Z U R I C H
Home 847-550-5200
The first-ever Farm to Table Charity Dinner we co-hosted was a big success.
Many Thanks for Your Generous Support
MULLERE X TERIORS.COM
Zin •
GastroPub Unique Wines, Spirits and Cuisine Farm To Table • Locally Sourced
847.946.4167
583 N. Rand Road • Lake Zurich
ZinGastroPub.com CityLifestyle.com/SWLake
21
GIVING BACK
ARTICLE CHRISTINA SIKORSKI
PHOTOGRAPHY STEPHEN NEILSON AND PROVIDED
Sfire Family Education Center
GR AT E F U L BY E X A M PL E 22
SW Lake Lifestyle | November 2021
JOHN AND BOBBI SFIRE LIVING A LIFE OF GIVING BACK
JOHN F. KENNEDY SAID, “AS WE EXPRESS OUR GRATITUDE, WE MUST NEVER FORGET THAT THE HIGHEST APPRECIATION IS NOT TO UTTER THE WORDS BUT TO LIVE BY THEM.” For North Barrington residents John and Bobbi Sfire, living a life of gratitude is deeply personal; they live gratefully by example, generously donating time and resources to serve the broader community of SW Lake. One of Sfire’s primary influences was his father, Sam, who came to America from Lebanon and instilled in his family the importance of giving back. Sfire recalls him as the type of person who would literally give the shirt off his back: “He gave so much to so many, and he was always thankful, even when life wasn’t great. I’m convinced my benevolences in my life come from my relationship with my father.” Throughout his childhood, Sfire spent each day with him, working at the family business when he wasn’t at school. Sam passed away when John was just 19 years old. “It was a sadness to lose him, but it was a joy to have him for 19 years,” Sfire says.
CONTINUED >
Deacon John Sfire
CityLifestyle.com/SWLake
23
GIVING BACK (CONTINUED)
St. Frances de Sales School
Sam prized education. “My father always felt education was the most important thing to give children,” Sfire says, a value the son has deeply embraced. He has supported Lake Zurich School District 95 in many ways, from serving as a founder of the District 95 Foundation and participating in Leadership Summit Roundtable discussions to providing a building to the District that would become the Sfire Family Education Center. The Foundation’s mission is to “raise funds and provide resources for additional innovations to empower all learners to achieve personal excellence,” beginning with “innovation grants” for teachers and expanding over the years. Sfire continues to work with the Foundation as Trustee Emeritus and speaks glowingly of how it has had a positive impact in the community. John and Bobbi’s children attended District 95 schools, and now their grandchildren do as well; their daughter Niki teaches here also. Foundation Executive Director Erica Chianelli says, “You will not find more generous people than John and Bobbi Sfire. Their passion and dedication to this community is inspiring. Not only do they share their blessings, but they are active and engaged in the community. We are so lucky to have John on our board as a Trustee Emeritus, where his insight is valued tremendously. The Foundation is so grateful for their continued support.” In addition to his zeal for education, Sfire has a passion for his Catholic faith, striving to live as Christ taught. In his teens he considered entering seminary, but the death of his father put his spiritual career on hold. Later in life, as Sfire’s construction firm was building the church Our Lady of Lebanon in Lombard, he grew
24
SW Lake Lifestyle | November 2021
St. Frances de Sales lectern where Sfire gives the homily
close to its pastor, Father Alfred, and again felt a
Wallace, had previously fed hundreds of residents,
calling to preach and participate in spiritual life
and its leaders were concerned about feeding the
more fully. With Father Alfred’s support he enrolled
hungry that Thanksgiving.
in classes at Mundelein Seminary, and some years
After reading of the disastrous fire in the week-
later was ordained a deacon; he currently serves at
end newspaper, the Sfires called the food pantry
St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church. His favorite
asking how they could help. Monday, they drove to
ministry is visiting the sick. “To walk into a hospital
Zion and met with Rev. Wallace at the pantry, where
room and see someone’s eyes lift with a smile is
the embers were still smoldering.
so gratifying,” John says. His pastor, Father David
“I told Bobbi, ‘We need to build this man a new
Ryan, says, “In the letter of St. James, if you encoun-
pantry.’ So I called my son and had him organize our
ter someone who is cold and has no coat, you can’t
contractors—architect drawings, HVAC, flooring.”
just walk by; you need to stop and help. That is what
Rev. Wallace secured an expedited building permit
John and Bobbi do. As soon as something comes to
in 24 hours. With work done by The Fidelity Group
their attention, they always stop and help.”
(John’s construction business) and donations from
That generosity and support is evidenced out-
the various contractors, the new building was
side SW Lake as well. In November 2000, a Lake
completed in just seventeen days. After being dev-
County food pantry was destroyed by fire. Faith
astated by fire days earlier, the newly-constructed
Food Pantry in Zion, founded in 1975 by Rev. Jesse
food pantry fed 2,000 families Thanksgiving dinner. CONTINUED >
CityLifestyle.com/SWLake
25
GIVING BACK (CONTINUED)
The Sfires were committed to continue supporting families and working toward ending hunger in Lake County. After meeting again with Rev. Wallace, they dove right in. “Giving money is easy, getting involved is harder,” John said. They continued to donate time and food, ultimately leading the organization for more than ten years after the rebuild. “We made the decision: we can’t leave; we have to stay here. So, Bobbi ran the pantry. I drove the forklift, bought the food and sought donations. It was all volunteers, including kids from Zion-Benton High School. Eventually we had to build another warehouse and had four tractor trailers to fit all the pallets of food. We instituted meat pick-ups at local grocers, sometimes 4,000—5,000 pounds of meat weekly. We would pick up 10 or 15 pallets of baked goods from other grocers. None of our clients ever paid for food,” John says. John eventually served as President of the Northern Illinois Food Bank for four years. He and Bobbi worked at the pantry three or four days a week, overseeing over 50 volunteers and overhauling the inventory and computer systems. In the eleven years they ran the pantry, they gave away 17 million pounds of food to 875,000 Lake County residents. “We had a budget of about $150,000 annually, and what I didn’t raise in donations, we just wrote a check,” recalls John. Rev. Wallace was astounded at the generosity to support and feed the local community. At the time, he told the Daily Herald, “I don’t have words for it. I can’t tell you. I’m about to break into tears right now.” How can we live a life of gratitude? In the Merriam-Webster dictionary, gratitude, from the
Volunteering at a local Food Bank: a great way to be grateful by example
Latin root gratus, is defined as a feeling of appreciation or thanks. Sfire expands this definition further. “For me, and I’m just talking about me, being
spiritually. He lives and affirms his gratitude
thankful is an outward sign. Gratitude is a con-
each morning when he wakes up and gives
stant, a mindset, different than being temporarily
thanks. “If everything didn’t happen this way—
thankful. Gratitude is an emotion stirred within us.
the challenges, the heartache, the joys over 76
It needs to be ingrained in you,” John says.
years—I wouldn’t be in this moment today. We
In a challenging time, after more than a year
26
have to share our blessings,” he says.
of loss throughout the pandemic, what does
To live a full life of gratitude, we need to go beyond
gratitude look like? How can we still be grate-
words to actions. John and Bobbi Sfire live by both,
ful? After some serious health challenges, John
appreciating both the trials and the treasures, shar-
is grateful to be alive and to continue to grow
ing their blessings and giving thanks for all of it.
SW Lake Lifestyle | November 2021
M A K ING GR ATITUDE A MINDSET 01
02
03
WRITE
CONNECT
VOLUNTEER
Take a few minutes every day
Reach out to your loved ones.
Volunteer with children, seniors,
to write down three things you
Offer a cup of coffee and a long
animals or at local community
are grateful for. Use a sticky
walk. Send an old-fashioned
events. Consider a food
note, a special journal, or an
thank you note to a dear friend
donation to the local pantry,
app on your phone. Keep this
or a former teacher, coach, or
like St. Vincent de Paul Pantry
list handy and feel free to start
mentor. Smile more. You can
in Lake Zurich. Form a group
simple; you can be grateful for
still tell someone is smiling,
to help pack meals at Feed My
a crisp, fall day.
even under a mask.
Starving Children in Libertyville.
John & Bobbi Sfire receiving the Spirit of St. Martin de Porres Award from Bishop George Rassas CityLifestyle.com/SWLake
27
INSPIRED BY
JEFF & KATIE GRUND FAMILY
W h at G r at i t u d e Means
01
“We’re grateful for friends who are like family. From our school and parish community at St. Francis, to our neighbors and all the parents, grandparents and coaches together with whom we cheer on our kids at the football and baseball fields or basketball courts. My family is fortunate and grateful to live in a community where we get involved, get to know each other, and
COMMUNITY MEMBERS SHARE THEIR THOUGHTS ON WHAT GRATITUDE MEANS TO EACH OF THEM THIS YEAR ARTICLE STEPHEN NEILSON & CHRISTINA SIKORSKI
make great memories together.”
“Our family is grateful for our community. As the saying goes, it takes a village, and we love our village! It has made a world of difference while raising four boys with boundless energy and chaotic schedules. Neighbors, coaches, teachers, friends, and family have made us so thankful that we call Lake Zurich home.”
IN WHAT FOR MANY FAMILIES HAS BEEN A
NATASHIA & CRAIG DANNEGGER FAMILY
CHALLENGING YEAR FOLLOWING UPON AN EVEN-MORE CHALLENGING ONE, WE AT SW LAKE REJOICE AT THE RESILIENCY AND SPIRIT SEEN IN ABUNDANCE ACROSS THE COMMUNITY. We asked a few folks to share share what they’re most grateful for, from Lake Zurich, Hawthorn Woods, Wauconda, Kildeer, Barrington and beyond. We thank everybody for their contributions which remind us of how special the neighborhoods and opportunities in our community are, and help us count our blessings in this season of being thankful.
28
SW Lake Lifestyle | November 2021
02
05
MIMI MCLAUGHLIN
03
DITPI & NIKHIL MULYE FAMILY
“This pandemic forced us to take a pause. It helped
“I am grateful for the chances I have to spend time
me focus more on important aspects of my life: my
together with my friends and my family. I cherish the
health and my family... my attention has been drawn
moments we have to be with each other and make
to the simple blessings of the day. I am so grateful
memories that last!”
for working-from-home, spending more time with my family and watching my kids (6-year-old son Aadit and 10-month daughter Aarya) grow in front of my eyes.”
04
“This year has been a season of loss and sadness but there’s still so much to be grateful for! I am choosing to see my blessings instead of focusing on my loss. This little baby boy brings me so much joy, and I’m so thankful for this season of life loving on my new grandson, Brooks.”
CONTINUED >
JUDY WILSON (PICTURED: GRANDSON BROOKS)
CHIEF STEVE HUSAK, LZPD
06
“I’m grateful for the support our agency receives from our community. The anti-police narrative that many of us saw on national news this year can be disheartening to our officers. With that said, I can’t tell you how many people wave at our officers, say hello, say thank you, and generally show their support every day—which makes our officers smile and feel good about their chosen vocation.” CityLifestyle.com/SWLake
29
INSPIRED BY (CONTINUED)
ANGELA & KEVIN O’BRIEN FAMILY
07
“We’re forever grateful to our first responders, who responded heroically in the middle of the night 4 1/2 years ago. When Lake Zurich paramedics safely deliv-
JASON KRAUS, LZFRD
ered our daughter, Paige, in a complicated emergency
“This year I am thankful for my family, work and friends.
birth, little did we know the lead paramedic, Jason
The past year has made me truly appreciate the oppor-
Kraus, would remain our dear friend years later. This
tunity to watch my family grow, see my work family take
family photo with Jason (left) with Paige (now a pre-
on new challenges to help the community we serve,
schooler) reminds us we’re grateful to those who serve
and appreciate the time I get to spend with my friends.”
and protect us when we need it most.”
08
“According to the kids, Jason and Joey: ‘We are grateful for our family and for each other. We have so much fun together, we don’t know what we would do without each other. We are also grateful for candy.’” JASON VAN PUYMBROECK FAMILY
NICHOLE ALIVIA FAMILY “What am I grateful for this year? The gift of having a large family and the ability to have time together to really enjoy and appreciate each other. My kids Tino, Gabe, Francisca, Ela and Leo are participating in our in-home version of a cooking competition, as pictured here.” 30
09
SW Lake Lifestyle | November 2021
10
13
JOSE FLEITA
11
“I’m grateful for every day I get to enjoy coaching the
LT. BENNY YEE, LZFRD
kids of our community for Ela Soccer. Seeing their
“I am grateful for friends and family who encourage me
smiling faces, and watching them develop and enjoy
and love me for who I am. I am also grateful for my faith
their time out on the fields with their teammates is truly
and the grace of God.”
rewarding and keeps me doing what I do everyday.”
12
“We are grateful for both our families and our customers staying healthy in these crazy pandemic times. We are also grateful for our network of professionals—the contractors and tradespersons who have continued to work on Briggs Design projects inside of our customer’s homes— respecting all work requirements and doing it with a great attitude. We know it’s not easy to work in a mask, and some of our customers have required this.” JOHN & KERRY BRIGGS
KASIA & ZAC ZYCH FAMILY
14
“This year we’re especially grateful for our family, that all our loved ones are healthy, and for the community we’ve lived in for over 10 years now. We are so thankful to be part of a neighborhood where friends and neighbors support one another and where our children are growing up having the same wonderful experiences we remember from our childhood.” CityLifestyle.com/SWLake
31
VOTED BEST BARBERSHOP 2017, 2018 AND 2019 BY READERS OF SW LAKE LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
HAIRCUTS & STYLING | SHAVES | THINNING HAIR SOLUTIONS COLOURING | MANICURE | FACE TREATMENTS | SCALP TREATMENTS
BARRINGTON VILLAGE CENTER 120 S. HOUGH STREET BARRINGTON, IL 60010 224.633.2188 Book Online at
WWW.188BARRINGTON.COM www.Facebook.com/188Barrington
FIND OUT WHAT LOCAL TEENS SAY ABOUT GAMBLING, SPORTS WAGERING & BETTING ON NCAA GAMES.
WE DO SOLAR DIFFERENT
SCAN THIS FOR A SHORT VIDEO.
RESIDENTIAL · COMMERCIAL
FIND OUT HOW: INFO@ILUMENPV.COM | 847-852-3370 847-546-6450
gamblingservices@nicasa.org | nicasa.org 32
SW Lake Lifestyle | November 2021
Funded by Illinois Department of Human Services, Division of Substance Use Prevention and Rehabilitation
NEW ONLINE STORE threadsVIPshop.com
NEW ONLINE STORE threadsVIPshop.com Be Sure To Shop The
HOMETOWN GIFT SHOP Across the Hall from Threads! Find Us at Our 2 nd Location:
Painted Tree Boutiques 20771 N. Rand Rd. • Kildeer
Use code
S AV E 1 0
for 10% OFF your order
WOMEN’S & MEN’S CLOTHING • GIFTS • ACCESSORIES
847-526-2058
118 S. Main Street • Wauconda
Are You Ready For Some Football?
After
Installed by ECO professional technicians
Before
Typical do-it-yourself Installation
We have all your top brands such as OUR CONTROL4 SHOWROOM IS OPEN. Sony, Samsung, & Sonos to name a few! Make An Appointment Today To See the Benefits of Home Automation from ECO Automated Designs!
Home Technology, Simplified.
847.475.4442 ecoautomateddesigns.com
Consultations are always free. Contact us today! CityLifestyle.com/SWLake
33
NOVEMBER
LIFESTYLE CALENDAR
2-7 BEAUTIFUL: THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL the
amazingly
true
and
empowering story of Carole King and hear some of her most wellknown
songs
including
"I
experience or watch virtually as
sure to check online for final details:
Barrington’s White House presents
ShopDeerParkTownCenter.com.
jazz enthusiasts performing their favorite tunes in an “open mic” set-
CIBC Theatre (Chicago)
Enjoy
safety and health guidelines. Be
Feel
14
ting alongside the popular Marianne
THE KILLER B’S: BRAHMS, BARBER, BERNSTEIN & BEYOND
unforeseen circumstances, includ-
Kim Jazz Duo. $10 In-Person or
Barrington's White House
The Earth Move," "One Fine Day,"
American
"(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural
Areyzaga will perform the music
Woman," "You've Got A Friend" and
of
the title song, "Beautiful." Tickets at
Berlioz,
BroadwayInChicago.com.
and purchase tickets by visiting
3-27 THE MAGIC FLUTE
Lyric Opera of Chicago
Come meet Prince Tamino and Princess Pamina in the Lyric Opera of Chicago's
soprano
Brahms, and
ing those related to COVID-19. Visit BarringtonsWhiteHouse.com.
Michelle
Barber, more.
Virtual; subject to change due to
Bernstein, Learn
more
BarringtonsWhiteHouse.com.
DEC 23 A HOLIDAY TRADITION RETURNS Woodstock Opera House
The Woodstock Christmas Guitar
26-DEC 5
Night returns from hiatus as three
‘TWAS THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS
taining arrangements for the guitar,
internationally acclaimed musicians will present an evening of enteras well as popular holiday favor-
Chicago Theater
ites in the intimate setting of the
production featuring the timeless music
Cirque du Soleil has a fresh take on
Woodstock Opera House. Learn more
of Mozart. This is a wonderful way to
characters inspired by the original
at WoodstockOperaHouse.com.
kick-off celebrating the holiday season.
poem, featuring young Isabella whose
Learn more at LyricOpera.org.
world is turned upside-down. Every performance by Cirque du Soleil cre-
3
ates lasting memories. Learn more and
TAKE A BAKING CLASS TO ENJOY FALL'S BOUNTY
26-DEC 31
Baker Bill Reichman returns to share
HOLIDAY LIGHTS
Ela Area Public Library
a seasonal family favorite recipe
get tickets at CirqueDuSoleil.com.
Brookfield Zoo
made with fresh cranberries, Granny
Witness more than one million LED
Smith apples, and tart cherries.
lights. Take selfies in a gingerbread
Learn more and reserve your spot in
house, a 20-foot-tall orb, or with
the class at EAPL.org.
Santa. The North Gate will feature a 41-foot tree that “dances” in time
13
to holiday music. Various animal
SANTA BRINGS THE FIREWORKS
CZS.org/HolidayMagic.
exhibits will also be open. Check the website for actual show times.
Deer Park Town Center
Pack up the kiddos so not to miss Santa arriving in his sleigh as fireworks light up the night sky at Deer Park Town Center. Please note this event is subject to change based on weather and 34
SW Lake Lifestyle | November 2021
DEC 9
Would you like to get in touch with
SECOND THURSDAYS JAZZ CABARET Barrington’s White House
Enjoy
an
in-person
cabaret-like
us? We would love to hear from you! Contact us at CityLifestyle.com/ SWLake using the Get In Touch link and let us know what you think.
GARAGE FLOOR • BASEMENT • PATIO
WE’VE GOT YOU COVERED! FANCY FLOORS FOR FANCY CARS
GAR AGE ST OR AGE • WAR EHOUSE FLOORS • HOSPI TAL FLOORS • COMMERCI AL FLOORS
#1 POLYASPARTIC FLOOR COATING! Stronger than Epoxy Can be applied at low temperatures even down to -20 degrees!
HOME OF THE ONE DAY FLOOR! Walk on it in 4 hours ~ Drive on it in 24 hours! Many Colors Available
20% OFF
New Floor Coating Order before November 30, 2021
Family Owned & Operated
847.744.8518 www.agschicago.com
We have moved: 1160 Dato Lane, Wauconda , IL 60084
THANK YOU
FOR TRUSTING US WITH THE SALE OF YOUR HOME AND RECOMMENDING US TO YOUR FRIENDS AND FAMILY! SOLD!
SOLD!
SOLD!
SOLD!
SOLD!
6307 Valley View Circle, Long Grove
4133 Three Lakes Drive, Long Grove
4583 Pamela Court, Long Grove
4532 Eleanor Drive, Long Grove
1145 Steeple View Drive, Lot 7, Long Grove
FOR SALE!
FOR SALE!
Steeple View Estates
only 4 lots left Buy and Build!
1143 Steeple View Dr, Long Grove
1146 Steeple View Dr, Long Grove
Co-Listed with Julie Brown
“What made working with Renee a real joy is her personality. At once calm, cheerful, poised, and in-tune with our needs and feelings and those of the potential buyers, she proposed creative alternatives. She has a strong network of professionals that we enjoyed working with, including house stagers, attorneys, etc.” - M.K. 847.612.0027 | renee@reneeclarkhomes.com
September Sales in Southwest Lake County Subdivision
List Price
Sold Price
SP:LP
LMT
Beds/Baths
Subdivision
List Price
Sold Price
SP:LP
LMT
Beds/Baths
Avery Ridge
$594,530
$704,800
119%
1
4/2.1
Acorn Acres
$679,900
$693,000
102%
5
4/2.1
West Brookside Ridge
$725,000
$801,000
110%
6
5/4.0
Country Corners
$525,000
$535,000
102%
3
4/2.2
Tower Lakes
$499,000
$540,000
108%
16
4/3.1
Wicklow Village
$625,000
$635,000
102%
1
4/3.1
Flint Creek
$624,900
$658,888
105%
3
4/3.0
Prairie Creek
$850,000
$860,000
101%
5
4/3.1
Prairie Creek
$999,000
$1,050,000
105%
12
6/6.1
Long Grove Valley
$570,000
$575,000
101%
11
4/2.1
Fairhaven
$495,000
$517,500
105%
3
4/3.1
Jewel Park
$975,000
$980,000
101%
5
5/4.0
Rambling Hills
$699,900
$725,000
104%
4
4+1 bsmt/5.1
Avery Ridge
$579,630
$579,640
100%
13
4/2.1 5/4.2
Bishops Ridge
$649,900
$672,000
103%
3
4/3.1
White Oak Estates
$1,035,000
$1,030,000
100%
40
Woods End
$899,900
$930,000
103%
4
4/4.1
White Oak Estates
$1,250,000
$1,250,000
100%
4
4+1 bsmt/6.2
Red Bridge Farm
$495,000
$510,000
103%
18
4/2.1
Country Club Estates
$795,000
$772,500
97%
102
3+1 bsmt/4.1
MLS statistics from 9/1/21-9/30/21. All information herein has not been verified and is not guaranteed. Featured properties may not be listed by the agent/office providing this data. Supplied by Renee Clark, @properties.