Stephanie Bryant is an Oncology Sales Manager for a leading Biotech company by day and aspiring free-lance writer by night. A certified wanderlust spirit and art junkie Stephanie indulges in global travel with a healthy fascination with all things arts and culture. instilling the same values into her daughter. She is currently penning the memoir of her mother who was the First African American to win a national tennis title. She seeks to combine her education, creative gift and passion for writing about the beauty of the world that ignites conversation about modern cultural and social issues. Follow on Twitter @stephbreal and Instagram, Stephbreal.
Shermin Kruse is a partner at the law firm of Barack Ferrazzano, the author of the critically acclaimed, best-selling novel Butterfly Stitching, a contributor to the Huffington Post, co-founder and director of the peace organization, Pasfarda Arts and Culture Exchange, a director of the international refugee center Heshima Kenya, and a director of the ACLU of Illinois. Shermin, spent her childhood in Iran dodging rockets and the morality police and immigrated with her family. Kruse graduated cum laude from the University of Michigan Law School. In addition, she is a frequent speaker and writer on issues relating to human rights and women in leadership. Kruse is globally dedicated to raising awareness. Shermin was named by BizWomen Magazine as one of the top 100 “Women to Watch” in the US and is one of Chicago’s most influential women in business.
Jennifer M. McGregor is a 20 year veteran in the architectural design industry- serving in many capacities, including her new role as Senior Director of Global Business Development for the renowned hospitality design firm, The Gettys Group, based in Chicago. She also serves on the Executive Committee for the Citadel Theatre and the Advisory Board for the Art & Design School at her Alma Mater in Texas.. She serves as a judge for the prestigious Best of NeoCon Competition as well as the Product Innovation Awards through Architectural Products Magazine. Jennifer is an award-winning designer, philanthropist, runway model, photographer, water-skier, but her favorite role is being the mother of three dynamic children.
I recently had the pleasure of attending a special tasting by this new-to-Chicago world renowned culinary artist. Walking past the opened windows that look out onto the busy pedestrian street and upon entering through the unassuming front doors, the room, filled with acoustic music, immediately felt warm and welcoming. The patrons at the bar were just as welcoming. I ordered a craft cocktail even though the region is known for its beers, and there were plenty of beers from which to choose. With a drink in hand, the comfy couch beckoned me to relax before dinner and enjoy the musical ensemble while taking in the eclectic decor. It was the perfect way to end a busy week and start a relaxing weekend.
With the image of heavy German and Austrian food in my mind, I was hesitant about Czech food, but my reservations were immediately dissolved as I learned about this new Chef, recently relocating to Chicago from the Czech Republic with his family recipes in hand to make and share with Chicagoans. His grandma’s homemade jams accompany not only the desserts but add
flavor to unique
entrees.
Special
seasonings are
blended by the
chef himself
and the cuisine
was nothing
like the heavy
food I had
imagined.