SW Lake, IL February 2021 by City Lifestyle

F E B R UA RY 2 02 1

I N N O VAT I O N

Celebrating

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Everyday

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

FEBRUARY 2021 PUBLISHER

Michael Beightol | michael.beightol@lifestylepubs.com EDITOR

Celebrating Our Innovators

Stephen Neilson | stephen.neilson@lifestylepubs.com STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Graham Blus | grahamkblus@gmail.com

THIS MONTH WE HONOR LOCAL INNOVATORS. Whether launching a new

AD DESIGNER

clothing shop selling original designs or spending time in the wee hours of the night

Whitney Lockhart

creating art, innovation is all around us.

L AYO UT DESIGNER

Dani Moore

We’ve explored the power of creativity and resilience in many of our articles over the last few months. One positive outcome of the pandemic is that so many have used this abnormal time to take on extraordinary challenges. In this issue we touch base with several creators of art, music, commerce, technology and useful new products to see how they are doing. A museum is a wonderful repository for art, history and culture: much like a walk-in time capsule. We are truly fortunate here in Lake County to have our own cultural resource—the Bess Bower Dunn Museum in Libertyville—operated by the Lake

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Michael Beightol, Brian Blasey, Margaret Bobo-Dancy, Ellene Lammers, Kim Mikus, Stephen Neilson, Mauricio Romy, Nancy Van Broekhoven, Daniel Bruce Wimer, Zach Witt CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Michael Beightol, Graham Blus, Lori Compas, Rafi Jacobs, Whitney Masters, Stephen Neilson, Jeff Ramone, Kasia Vetter, John Weinstein, Sarah Wilson

County Forest Preserve District. While shut down due to the pandemic, you really ought to check it out when it re-opens to better acquaint yourself with the history and luminaries of Lake County. We love art because it gives us a glimpse of someone’s heart, the part of them we don’t see on the surface. The story by sculptor Margaret Bobo-Dancy provides a glimpse into the life of a young artist forging her own path.

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF SALES OFFICER Matthew Perry CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER DeLand Shore ART DIRECTOR Sara Minor OPERATIONS DIRECTOR Janeane Thompson

As you read these stories drawn from our community, we hope that you are inspired

AD MANAGER Chad Jensen

to pursue what you love.

REGIONAL SALES DIRECTOR Eric Williams WEB APPLICATIONS Michael O’Connell

Michael Beightol, Publisher 514 W 26TH ST., KANSAS CITY, MO

CityLifestyle.com/SWLake ON THE COVER Sarah Wilson photo of Margaret Bobo-Dancy. 4

SW Lake Lifestyle | February 2021

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.

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INSIDE THE ISSUE FEBRUARY 2021 FEATURES 12 The Innovators Among Us The Pandemic Has Taught Us That Resilience and Innovation Are More Important Than Ever.

18 Breaking Up is Hard To Do Mediation, Collaboration and Coaching Can Help Guide Couples to Build Their Best Future.

22 The Artist Finds Her Way Artist Margaret Bobo-Dancy Creates Surrealistic Reinterpretations of Reality.

28 The Dunn Museum is Lake County’s Cultural Resource Natural and Cultural History Comes Alive Through Interactive Exhibitions,

28 12

Authentic Artifacts, Reproductions and Technology.

DEPARTMENTS 4

Lifestyle Letter

Good Times

Around Town

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GOOD TIMES 1.

Places Abound to Gather Locally for Art, Music and Culture This month we take a retrospective look at the wonderful local places where we gather to not only enjoy good times, but also appreciate the work of artists and musicians. While the pandemic temporarily has shut down these places and stopped our gathering, we all look forward to when we can visit these and other places safely again.

1. JoAnn Aronds Freeman celebrates her Best of Show award with friends among the clouds at Starline Factory’s 4th Friday Event. | 2. Corky Siegel live at the Woodstock Opera House. | 3. Singer Ron Hawking at Barrington’s White House. | 4. Tim Davis, Jane Lynch and Kate Flannery with SW Lake Editor Stephen Neilson at the Raue Center for the Arts. | 5. Lyle Lovett and his Large Band at Ravinia. | 6. Wind Art Scuptures at Epilogue in Long Grove.

SW Lake Lifestyle | February 2021

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AROUND TOWN

CHICAGO MASTER SINGERS RELEASES NEW RECORDINGS

Lee says, "People act subconsciously based on

The Chicago Master Singers recently released

habit. And when talking about improving health

three new CDs available to order online at

and fitness the habits you have now may not sup-

ChicagoMasterSingers.org/shop, priced at $15

port the new and improved habits you want."

The truth is most people don't act with intent.

each, or $40 for the set of all three. The CDs were

Success in 2021 comes through intention.

recorded during live performances at the Divine

Fitness does not discriminate against anyone. The

Word Chapel in Techny during Alan Heatherington’s

decision to be fitter, healthier and a better you

final two years as Music Director.

comes from within. The process begins with spe-

My Lord Has Come is the new Christmas CD

cific and intentional healthy actions every day. We

recorded in December 2019 with the Ars Viva

all possess "two super powers," Lee says. "At any

Symphony Orchestra, featuring many original

given moment you have the power to choose. Also,

Christmas works by John Rutter, as well as his

you control your effort and attitude."

arrangements of traditional carols. Ralph Vaughan

Put differently, we're all just one decision away

Williams’ Fantasia on “Greensleeves” is performed

from making 2021 the healthiest ever. Learn more

by the orchestra.

at RestorationFitness.com.

Highlights from Handel’s Messiah, recorded in performance with the Ars Viva Symphony Orchestra in November 2017, includes selected choruses, and arias sung by soprano Michelle Areyzaga, mezzo-soprano Sarah Ponder, tenor Klaus Georg and bass Gerard Sundberg.

LAKE COUNTY OFFERS SYSTEM TO NOTIFY RESIDENTS ABOUT COVID-19 VACCINATIONS The

Lake

County

Health

Department

launched an "AllVax Portal" to notify residents

Do Not Be Afraid, recorded in concert in April

when a COVID-19 vaccine is available to them.

2018, features the repertoire Chicago Master

Registering online is easy and secure by visiting

Singers sang on tour in England the following sum-

AllVax.LakeCoHealth.org. Registration is also

mer. In addition to highlights from the Requiem by

available over the phone by calling 847.377.8130.

Herbert Howells, the CD features three works by Philip Stopford, including the title track.

GET OUT AND PLAY IN THE LAKE COUNTY FOREST PRESERVES

“We want to assure our residents that their safety is our top priority,” said Mark Pfister, Executive Director at the Lake County Health Department. “The COVID-19 vaccines indicate remarkable effectiveness in preventing COVID-19 with low risk

From ice fishing to sledding to cross-country

of serious side effects. This is an exciting moment

skiing, the Lake County Forest Preserves offer an

in science and an important step toward ending the

array of reasons to get outside to enjoy winter.

COVID-19 pandemic.”

"There are so many great ways for people and

By entering basic information and answering

families to recreate outside in nature during winter,

a few screening questions on the portal, a resi-

and there's no better place to experience the sea-

dent will be notified when a COVID-19 vaccine

son and improve your physical and mental well-

becomes available. Registrants can sign-up others,

ness than in your forest preserves," said Angelo Kyle,

too. Once notified, participants can schedule vac-

president of the Lake County Forest Preserves.

cination appointments through Lake County clinics

For a full list of winter activities, visit LCFPD.org/ winter-sports.

BE INTENTIONAL TO ACHIEVE HEALTH AND WELLNESS GOALS

or other facilities when a vaccine is available. The portal also includes answers to frequently asked questions on COVID-19 vaccination.

Intentional actions determine results, according to Sean Lee of Restoration Fitness in Lake Zurich.

Why intentional? Because when being inten-

Would you like to get in touch with us? We would love

tional a person takes action with conscious

to hear from you! Contact us at CityLifestyle.com/

awareness of what they are doing and trying

SWLake using the Get In Touch link and let us know

to accomplish.

what you think.

SW Lake Lifestyle | February 2021

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LOCAL LIMELIGHT ARTICLE MICHAEL BEIGHTOL

DANIEL BRUCE WIMER

IF THE PANDEMIC HAS TAUGHT US ANYTHING IT’S THAT RESILENCE AND INNOVATION ARE MORE IMPORTANT THAN EVER.

DIBI MENSWEAR DIBI (pronounced “D-B”) was launched in 2010 with just 14 styles of skinny ties. At the time I also had a boutique event production company in Chicago and was modeling for the FORD agency. With DIBI we promote individuality among customers and encourage them to express their unique sense of style. As a lifestyle-driven company we hold ourselves to the highest standards of creativity, quality and customer service. I always planned to open a physical location, but with so many North American and international boutiques cancelling orders or closing their doors due to the pandemic, I sped up my timetable. I believe we are ahead of the curve because local retail will come back stronger than ever. In many ways digital shopping is great, but online can’t duplicate the physical experience of brick-and-mortar. I have been involved with the international fashion industry for the past 15 years, and I draw on that experience to help guide a client. The most important element to anything I design or sell is physical comfort. Whether formal or casual, apart from looking amazing, it must also feel amazing. Raised in Palatine, and married with two young sons, I have extended family in the area. We live in Lake Barrington and enjoy outdoor activities and spending time together in the kitchen. Learn more at ShopDIBI.com.

SW Lake Lifestyle | February 2021

T h e I n n o vat o r s Among Us

MAURICIO ROMY OVENBIRD I began the Ovenbird project in June 2020 after launching our toy store—Happki—in Deer Park in late 2019. I know how difficult it is to start a business and manage it with limited resources. Small business owners wear many hats, and it can be overwhelming when you’re not seeing growth. After opening Happki, I learned that technology is a great tool, but often only affordably accessible to large enterprises. I knew Ovenbird was needed to provide a solution for small business owners like me. Our platform is in the early stages of development by our small, dedicated team in Illinois, Columbia and Spain. We plan to release our platform in modules that allow business owners to start using our tools as they are released. We look to launch an Inventory Management module by April and a CRM module in June. Our target is to have five main modules, adding Point-of-Sale, eCommerce and Analytics by November. My goal is to create something that caters to Main Street businesses that for too long have been neglected. Small businesses don’t need lots of bells and whistles, just something simple and affordable. We want to build a community of small business owners and provide them with the tools they need to be successful. To contact Mauricio Romy visit Ovenbird.io. CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/SWLake

LOCAL LIMELIGHT (CONTINUED)

ZACH WITT ILUMEN: SOLAR POWER PRODUCTS AND INSTALLATION The foundation of our business is to educate and promote solar energy in the area. We started in 2016 when I realized there wasn’t a big presence of solar here. I changed that with ilumen Solar. We specialize in highly aesthetic solar installations. Our goal is to make the install look as seamless as possible, while maintaining a quick return on investment. We do this with meticulous design, all-black panels, a 25-year warranty, hiding conduit in attics and clean electrical work. We go aboveand-beyond so that a customer is 100% happy. The business continues to grow and evolve, almost by the day. Before this I was in IT and Telecom sales. I was good at my job but wanted to make the world a better place. Now is a good time to go solar because the sooner we can get off fossil fuels the better. Every home in SW Lake County that goes solar makes a difference in reducing carbon in the atmosphere. Even if you can’t do an onsite system, you can still subscribe to a nearby community solar farm. I’m born and raised in Barrington so it’s exciting to be making a positive change here. I went to Montana State University for Business Management and Entrepreneurship (and also “studied” snowboarding). Learn more at ilumenpv.com.

SW Lake Lifestyle | February 2021

N A N C Y VA N B R O E K H O V E N PARTY POUCH: SHAREABLE READY-TOSERVE PREMIUM COCKTAILS Launched in 2019 with my partner, Dominic Voso, Party Pouch develops and packages multi-serving, ready-to-drink cocktails in a convenient one-liter pouch. The pouch is lightweight, portable, won’t break or spill, and is easy-to-share. We use only premium spirits mixed with all-natural ingredients, no added sugars and gluten free. We have three versions: Vodka, lemonade & tea; “Sex on the Beach” (vodka and tequila based); and Blue Agave Margarita. Dominic and I come from different backgrounds. I was in banking, airlines and consulting. Dom launched an energy drink and was in franchise development and management. Our first products are in 125 locations in Illinois. We’ve done fairly well considering our original marketing plans were canceled due to the pandemic. This year we are poised to go national having used 2020 to develop new products and distributor contacts. In our pipeline are more flavors, an expanded selection of spirits, and a Party Pouch Light with lower alcohol. Among our most valuable lessons is that consumers respond to innovation more than we expected. We strive for a “2 + 2 = 5” mentality where partnering with retailers create more revenue and profit for them, and more demand and exposure for us. Learn more at PartyPouch.com and use the store locator to find retail locations. CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/SWLake

LOCAL LIMELIGHT (CONTINUED)

H E AT H E R M O R A N SINGER

Heather Moran is a veteran of the local music scene. The bands she has played with are too numerous to name. Suffice it to say if you’ve been to any local hangout before the pandemic, and heard this amazing voice rising above the instruments, you’ve probably fallen under her musical spell. 2020 was a tough year for Moran as it was for all local performers. Economically it was a wash for most as they scrambled to find other sources of income. Heather—like her colleague Gina Gonzalez—turned to online performances. With the talent to tackle not only the American Songbook but rock, folk, country and more, Heather lives for her live performances. During the shutdown of musical venues, she has been refining her skills as a pianist. Heather Moran also supports efforts in the community to promote local businesses. Watch her fabulous performance of “Auld Lang Syne” on New Year’s Eve (https:// fb.watch/2Pq2YSJT0L/).

GINA GONZALEZ SINGER-SONGWRITER

Local performers were hurt more than most when the shutdown occurred last year. Losing the opportunity to get up on a stage meant more than a loss of income; it also excised a performer’s creative outlet. Gina Gonzalez, who’s performed for decades including tours as a singer with the Gary Sinise and the Lieutenant Dan Band, knew she had to play. So, she leaned into doing something she never thought possible—performing live online. From a comfortable set-up in her living room, often joined by her husband Leo and pet dog, Bella, Gonzalez signs on to Facebook and off she goes. Her playing is subsidized by a virtual tip jar so that fans can pay for her performance. Does this replace the income she generated before the shutdown? Not even close, but it’s a nice way to stay connected to a fan base, perform music, and have a few laughs with fans while collectively hoping for better days soon. Gina Gonzalez performs on Facebook at 8 p.m. most Fridays, at facebook.com/GinaGonzalezMusic. Her original music can be streamed on Spotify. 16

SW Lake Lifestyle | February 2021

Brian Blasey (L) & Chuck Miller of NeverMeasure.

BRIAN BLASEY NEVERMEASURE

After 20+ years at Motorola I joined a small manufacturing company. After a while I was able to sell my share and start working with Chuck Miller on NeverMeasure, a simple device to help homeowners hang things straight on a wall. Our first product came out in 2018. Last year, we experienced a missed opportunity. NeverMeasure had been selected as a finalist for an International Hardware Show Design and Innovation Award just as Covid reared its ugly head. The show ultimately was cancelled. As it turned out we won the award and would have received our trophy in front of all major retailers. Ultimately, winning the award was great but had little impact on sales. Our biggest lesson learned: you never know who you are talking to and where it may lead. For example, while at a show two years ago I met a guy who liked my pitch and recorded it. He shared it with somebody he knew and long story short, it ended up with us appearing on QVC. We have a roadmap in 2021 for new products that revolve around the concept of making home improvement simple, less intimidating, and even fun. Executing that roadmap takes capital and that is what we’re focused on. Learn more at NeverMeasure.com. CityLifestyle.com/SWLake

BR E A K I NG UP IS HARD TO DO

MEDIATION, COLLABORATION AND COACHING CAN HELP GUIDE COUPLES TO BUILD THEIR BEST FUTURES

SW Lake Lifestyle | February 2021

Ellene Lammers, Divorce Coach.

ARTICLE ELLENE LAMMERS, LCSW

MEGASTAR JENNIFER LOPEZ ONCE SAID, “THERE

and cooperation. Both partners agree to work together

IS NO PAIN OR FAILURE LIKE GOING THROUGH

to create an agreement that is “good enough.” The

A DIVORCE.” It can affect everyone, even the very

mediator is a third party who helps guide you through

wealthy, famous, and beautiful. No one is immune. The

the process with education and support. You and your

true goal is to learn constructive ways of dealing with

partner, however, will make all necessary decisions. You

your feelings and to learn from the experience in some

know yourself and your children better than anyone else,

way big or small.

so you keep control of the decision making.

The first step, once a decision has been made, is to

The process is non-judgmental and future focused.

decide which process would be best for you. Before

The goal is for you both to be able to coparent effectively.

contacting an attorney, you must educate yourself so

“Good enough” means that there will be no winner or

that you can ask the attorney about the pros and cons

loser. Both must be flexible and understand there will be

of each method to dissolve a marriage, while consid-

some give-and-take. There is no costly discovery, unlike

ering your own unique circumstances. If you have chil-

what occurs in the litigated realm, as with mediation

dren, the best gift that you can give them is to get along

each believes the other will voluntarily agree to reveal

with your ex-spouse, both during the divorce process

everything that is asked of him/her. Attorneys can be

and after it’s completed.

involved in the process; however, they are consulted on

You owe it to yourself and your family to learn more about mediation and collaborative divorce.

an as-needed basis as questions arise. Mediation results in an uncontested divorce and is also faster and more cost-effective than other methods.

Mediation is one of two techniques that can help you

The couple goes to court one time only—at the very end

divorce and at the same time teach you communica-

to receive the Marital Settlement Agreement. It is more

tion skills so that you can get along and coparent your

likely that a couple that has crafted their own agreement

children constructively. Mediation promotes respect

will follow through on the commitments they have made. CONTINUED >

CityLifestyle.com/SWLake

BREAKING UP IS HARD TO DO (CONTINUED)

Collaborative divorce is another voluntary process available to couples. This is a

not be easy, as what has happened to break down the marriage is still so fresh.

team approach to divorce. Each member of

Many people expend a great deal of energy

the couple has an attorney. There is one finan-

dwelling on what happened even years after

cial person, who is neutral and works with

their divorce. The past cannot be changed,

both, and also a mental health professional, a

and so it is important to figure out ways to

“coach”, who is there to help the couple learn

move forward for a healthier and more enjoy-

constructive ways of dealing with their emo-

able future. Mediation and collaboration are

tions. When impasse occurs, it is usually based

both techniques that can help with this.

on the underlying emotions rather than a sur-

We encourage divorcing couples to look

face issue, and the coach works to help the

at their relationship differently, more like

couple understand and resolve the impasse.

a business relationship. You must be cordial

The coach also attends settlement meetings.

and respectful, and decisions can no longer

Collaborative divorce requires that both mem-

be based just on what is best for you or your

bers of the couple communicate directly with

feelings. In your heart, you know what is best

each other and make the necessary decisions

for your children, and decisions can become

that will work best for them. While making

easier to make knowing this. Your ex-spouse

decisions together, you will be learning some

does not have to be your friend, but you must

new tools that will help you communicate

work together for your children.

more constructively, not only in the present but also into the future.

The issues that caused the breakdown of your marriage should be between the two

As in mediation, collaboration is also

of you. Your children, no matter their ages,

a non-judgmental process and is future

have one mother and one father. They love

focused. The team works together in a very

you both and do not want to be put in the

transparent way to help guide you. Settlement

position of having to choose between their

meetings can occur in an attorney’s confer-

parents. Mediation and collaboration can

ence room, or via Zoom. Couples need go to

teach you better ways of navigating the world

court only one time, as in mediation, at the

of divorce and how to be better coparents

end of the process.

moving forward.

Those who choose collaborative divorce

understand the importance of being able

Ellene Lammers is a Licensed Clinical So-

to preserve some part of their relationship

cial Worker with many years of experience

moving forward. Coping with a divorce is like

working with individuals of all ages. She is

coping with a death. It is the death of what

based in Vernon Hills, and specializes in

you thought your future would be. Having

discernment counseling, collaborative di-

constructive outlets for your feelings is crit-

vorce coaching and divorce mediation. Call

ical. Being future focused at this time may

her at 847.421.6827.

SW Lake Lifestyle | February 2021

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artistic journey

ARTICLE MARGARET BOBO-DANCY

FINDING THE SURREAL IN THE REAL

AS FAR BACK AS KINDERGARTEN I KNEW I WOULD

Winston-Salem, N.C. is where I grew up. It is a great

BE AN ARTIST. One day when working on a watercolor of

place to be from, and when it was time for college, I knew

a friend our teacher saw what I was doing and said, “You

I wanted to be in a big city. After receiving a scholarship

should be an artist when you grow up.” I remember being

offer from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago (SAIC),

proud and excited to tell my parents that I was going to be

I was on my way. Lucky for me Chicago was the big city I

an artist. Teachers, including my mom, have always been

was looking for. I am proud now to say I am a Chicagoan.

an influence in my life. I owe a debt of gratitude to all my

When you go to SAIC you are encouraged to explore

teachers and especially my parents for their support.

Critter at Fire Fest.

SW Lake Lifestyle | February 2021

lots of things. They don’t really have majors which was

fortunate for me because after a while some great professors steered me to my career. One teacher really stands out—Preston Jackson. He helped by encouraging me to become what I am today. Before graduating in 2013, I focused on foundry work; SAIC is one of the

important part of the human experience. I want to ravenously create

only schools in the country that has a foundry program.

an interpretation of my life to inspire others to do the same.

I used to be an avid painter, live-and-die by my brush, working into

Of course, other artists have influenced me greatly along the way.

the wee hours painting. I had a very powerful personal manifesto

Claude Lalanne is a French metal surrealist born in 1924. Along

about what I thought painting should be, but then in school after

with her husband, Francois-Xavier, she created a poetical and

taking different classes I came to realize that the world is better inter-

dreamlike universe inspired by the natural world. Sometimes I feel

preted through sculpture, a three-dimensional representation of life.

when I am working on a new piece that I am channeling Lalanne, a

My work is best described as creating a collage of the natural

very powerful female sculptor. Another big influence is Nick Cave,

world by reinterpreting reality through mold-making and metal cast-

a Chicagoan and SAIC instructor who is a fabric sculptor, dancer,

ing to make a more surrealistic vision. There are a lot of things that

and performance artist. Recently, he’s done metal work that is just

my work has dealt with—like mental health and art history—but I

so beautiful. In my opinion Cave is one of our most important con-

feel that what I want to inspire the most is curiosity. Art making is an

temporary artists today.

CONTINUED >

Bronze hair pin. (Jeff Ramone photo)

Ecdysis #1.

CityLifestyle.com/SWLake

ARTISTIC JOURNEY (CONTINUED)

Chimera. (Whitney Masters photo)

My work is best described as creating a collage of the natural world by reinterpreting reality through moldmaking and metal casting to make a more surrealistic vision. My time in the studio is very important to me. I love it but the

the other is for the products I am starting to design, make and sell

hours can be tough on my body. What I do is very process oriented.

(OddAlchemy.com, right now featuring bronze hairpins with more

It takes a long time to complete a project—doodling, sketching,

designs to come).

drawing, mold making, casting, welding, grinding and finishing. A lot

The pandemic has been very difficult for galleries due to safety con-

of the time I am working on several projects at once since some

cerns. Early in 2020, after months of work and preparation, I had a great

of my larger pieces can take up to five months to complete. After I

opening night at a gallery but then Covid hit and shut everything down.

leave my studio, I head home to spend time on my websites. One is

In 2021 I will be saving all I can with an eye on opening my own

essentially a gallery for my sculpture work (BoboDancy.com) and

shop so that I can offer more jewelry designs in my body of work. Follow Margaret Bobo-Dancy on Instagram: @bobo_dancy.

SW Lake Lifestyle | February 2021

Transverberate crystal mask. (Rafi Jacobs photo)

CityLifestyle.com/SWLake

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A rt & History: The Dunn Museum i s L a k e C o u n t y’s C u l t u r a l Re s o u r c e

SW Lake Lifestyle | February 2021

ARTICLE KIM MIKUS

PHOTOGRAPHY JOHN WEINSTEIN & LORI COMPAS

C U LTU R A L 28

First People Exhibit.

THE BESS BOWER DUNN MUSEUM IN LIBERTYVILLE IS NAMED IN HONOR OF LAKE COUNTY’S FIRST OFFICIAL HISTORIAN, BESS BOWER DUNN (1877–1959). Her determination to preserve the early history of Lake County resulted in a significant and lasting contribution—and one of the best cultural offerings in the Chicago area. The Lake County Forest Preserves, which operates the museum, is con-

woman in motion pictures, the first assistant

tinuing her mission and sharing her innovative

probate clerk for Lake County, and one of the

spirit with visitors of all ages.

county’s earliest genealogists.

“Bess did more to preserve and protect the

The Dunn Museum continues to care for the

county’s history than any other individual,” said

heritage of the county through its distinguished

Andrew Osborne, superintendent of educational

historic collections, and innovative special exhibi-

facilities for the Lake County Forest Preserves.

tions inspired by art, history and popular culture

“Bess was passionate about documenting the

in gallery settings. Museum educators, curators

county’s heritage at the turn of the century and

and historians provide the public with cultural

personally acquired some of the items that are

context through public and school programs.

now part of our collections.” Bess was ambitious, and a woman of firsts. She was the first

Opened

1976

the

Lake

County

Discovery Museum in a converted farm building at Lakewood Forest Preserve in Wauconda, in 2018 the museum moved to its current location

Dunn Museum lobby entrance.

at 1899 W. Winchester Road in Libertyville. The central Lake County location provides more than twice the gallery space for exhibitions about Lake County’s past than its previous site. It also offers dedicated teaching areas and a public research center, as well as convenient access for all visitors. The nationally accredited Dunn Museum—a distinction held by only 3% of American museums—cares for a treasure trove of history about our region. Other area-accredited museums include the Art Institute of Chicago and the Museum of Science & Industry. Lake County’s natural and cultural history is brought to life through a balance of interactive exhibitions, authentic artifacts, reproductions and audiovisual displays.

CONTINUED >

R E S O U RC E

NATURAL AND CULTURAL HISTORY IS BROUGHT TO LIFE THROUGH A BALANCE OF INTERACTIVE EXHIBITIONS, AUTHENTIC ARTIFACTS, REPRODUCTIONS, AND AUDIOVISUAL DISPLAYS.

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ART & HISTORY (CONTINUED)

Lake County Lotus Boat.

SW Lake Lifestyle | February 2021

Visitors are invited to take a chronological walk through Lake County’s past from prehistoric times to the present. Each gallery includes a touch screen that directs visitors to different forest preserves to see firsthand where history took place. (Currently these screens are disabled due to COVID-19 protocols.) Galleries also include animations narrated by Bill Kurtis, Chicago’s legendary television journalist, that illustrate stories of Lake County. A major attraction of the Dunn Museum is a lifesized Dryptosaurus dinosaur. She welcomes visitors from her position at the entrance. No other institution in the world has one like it. This replica is both a work of art and a contribution to science. “What is unique about the Dunn Museum is our

Dunn dino.

ability to tell the inspiring stories of Lake County’s heritage and then direct visitors to the exact land where history happened, such as the Adlai E.

enables us to show more of the collection and con-

Stevenson Historic Home in Mettawa,” said Angelo

nect visitors to our collective history,” Buckardt said.

Kyle, president of the Lake County Forest Preserves.

The work of renowned comic book artist Alex

“We like to consider ourselves a 31,000-acre

Ross was a popular exhibit last year featuring Ross’

museum because not only do we care for historic

portraits of Marvel Comics’ heroes and villains,

artifacts that embody Lake County stories, but we

sculptures and childhood pieces.

also care for the land where those stories occurred.” Permanent exhibitions include Prehistoric Lake

COLLECTIONS

County; The First People; An American Frontier;

In the exhibit galleries, objects from the collec-

Civil War; Innovations and Preservation; and the

tions are rotated on and off display to share new

Woodland Theater. Special exhibitions offered at

stories and care for the collection, said Diana

the Dunn Museum are sometimes national tour-

Dretske, curator at the Dunn Museum. The collec-

ing exhibitions and sometimes curated by Dunn

tions comprise nearly 20,000 artifacts and 1,000

Museum staff, which is the case with the current

linear feet of archival materials housed in a modern,

exhibition, “Breaking Barriers: Women in the Military.”

environmentally controlled care and storage facility.

“This allows us a chance to really delve into what

“The storage facility assists us in the preservation

makes Lake County and its residents so special,”

of the collections the Dunn Museum holds in the

said Director of Education Nan Buckardt. The Dunn

public trust,” Dretske said.

Museum has a large collection of objects and archi-

For example, an impressive hand-carved wooden

val materials that provide a rich resource for Lake

model of a cathedral in the collections embodies

County history. However, only a small percentage of

the story of Charles Warner’s immigration in 1908

the collection can be on display at one time. “When

to Mundelein from Prussia. Warner was just 13, and

Dunn Museum staff members curate an exhibition it

taught himself to read and write English. After his retirement as a carpenter for American Steel and Wire in North Chicago, he took up woodworking as a hobby. In 1955, he began carving wooden cathedrals by hand with a jackknife and jigsaw, using templates of his own design.

CONTINUED >

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ART & HISTORY (CONTINUED)

The cathedrals he created were made in remembrance of his childhood in Prussia, and to teach his children their heritage. His daughter donated her father’s folk-art cathedrals to the Dunn Museum in 1982. “When someone offers to donate an item to our collections, it goes through a thoughtful review process before a decision is made,” said Dretske. Curators and other museum staff review the item to gauge how well it represents the people, places and events of Lake County and if it enhances the museum’s ability to tell the county’s history. INNOVATION The coronavirus pandemic has forced the Dunn Museum to temporarily close, prompting staff to develop innovative methods to continue sharing stories and exhibitions with the public. “We are developing ways to stay connected and keep people engaged in history education,” Buckardt said. An array of virtual programs about the history of Lake County are being offered, and history research services continue to be provided via email. Museum staff is also working to add a dedicated YouTube channel to its mix of strategies to engage an audience they have been unable to consistently serve due to COVID-19 closures. “The channel, called DunnTV, will serve as an important tool for regular content delivery. It has the capacity to expand our audience significantly beyond our capacity for on-site visitation,” Buckardt said. The channel will feature informative videos about the museum’s collections, exhibitions, educational programming, and behind-the-scenes operations. The filming equipment for DunnTV was purchased through a grant made possible by the Preservation Foundation, the charitable partner of the Lake County Forest Preserves. In February, the Dunn Museum will introduce an entirely virtual exhibition created in partnership with the College of Lake County. “The exhibit profiles African American voices of Lake County,” Buckardt said. “It Charles Warner's handcarved model of Prussian cathedral.

SW Lake Lifestyle | February 2021

explores multigenerational stories through graphic design, poetry, writing, art and video interviews done by students from CLC’s Black Student Union.”

Dunn Museum Backstage. (Photo: Lori Compas)

Dunn Museum namesake Bess Bower Dunn in 1896.

Virtual visitors will be able to experience the exhibit gallery using an interactive StoryMap, a web application that combines interactive and static displays with rich multimedia. “We are excited to launch this new virtual exhibit,” Buckardt said. “We are proud of the innovative tools and creative ideas we’ve implemented to expand our reach and visitor base despite COVID-19 restrictions. We plan to integrate many of these new innovations into our standard operations even after we are able to reopen the Dunn Museum to walk-in visitors once again.” Kim Mikus is a Communications Specialist with the Lake County Forest Preserves. To comply with COVID-19 mitigations, the Dunn Museum was closed at the time this story was prepared. Please visit DunnMuseum.org to check the current open/closed status, and to find virtual programs and exhibition information.

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December 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

Barrington

$750,000

$775,000

103%

1/0

Eleanora Estates

$574,000

$565,000

98%

277

4/2.2

Herons Crossing

$549,900

$555,050

101%

4/2.1

Hawthorn Place

$539,900

$529,900

98%

370

3/3

Eleanora Estates

$775,000

$780,000

101%

5/4.1

Royal Melbourne

$789,000

$773,000

98%

4/4.2

Glenstone

$539,500

$542,000

100%

4/2.1

Heritage Trails

$619,000

$605,000

98%

4+1/4.2

Wynstone

$599,000

$600,000

100%

5/4.1

Mardan

$527,500

$515,000

98%

138

4/3

Hawthorn Woods Country Club

$525,000

$520,000

99%

4/2.1

Tallgrass

$748,000

$730,000

98%

6/5.1

Preserves of Long Grove

$750,000

$739,000

99%

5/3.1

MLS statistics from 12/1/20-12/31/20. 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.