Crystal Lake, IL October 2023

At

New Beginnings

Earlier this year, while on vacation with my wife, Jennifer,  a chance encounter introduced me to an opportunity to expand a local magazine to my community.  My mind started to race with excitement that I could take my years of media experience, use it in a local environment, and own my own business.  I knew that taking this leap of faith into a new career would mean leaving the security of my comfortable corporate position. But once I learned more about this publication, the choice was obvious.

The decision was made easier because of the encouragement, understanding and support of my wife.  I am grateful, from the bottom of my heart, for her always being by my side.  I remind myself what I have always worked to instill in my three sons (Jack, Scott and Alex): “Live your life to the fullest and find a career that you are passionate about.”  Watching them transform, over the last few years, has been inspirational.  They’ve taken three different paths, unique to their own personalities.  Now, I am on a new path and embracing the challenge and rewards I know it will bring.

My editor, Patti Noble, and I are excited to bring this first edition of Crystal Lake City Lifestyle to you.  I’m thrilled to take this journey with Patti.  We’ve only been working together for a few months, but her passion for our community is contagious.  Together, we look forward to growing our local team and sharing stories that will connect the community on a deeper and more personal level, while highlighting why Crystal Lake and the surrounding communities are such great places to live!

A heartfelt thank you goes out to our generous Founding Partners for believing in the vision for Crystal Lake City Lifestyle.  I am humbled by their journeys as local business owners and how much this community means to each of them.

As I closed the door on Corporate America after 30 years, I was reminded of a line from Stairway to Heaven , one of my favorite Led Zeppelin songs:  “Yes, there are two paths you can go by, but in the long run, there ’s still time to change the road you ’re on.”

Life has a lot of twists, turns, and tough decisions, but you truly can change the path you’re on if you believe in yourself, take the risk and have support around you.

October 2023

PUBLISHER

Steve Rogers | steve.rogers@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Patti Noble | patti.noble@citylifestyle.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Patti Noble

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Patty Bell, David Bradburn

Corporate Team

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry

VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES Tiffany Slowinski

EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson

DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein

CONTROLLER Gary Johnson

AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman

LAYOUT DESIGNER Jayme Emery

STEVE ROGERS, PUBLISHER

@CRYSTALLAKECITYLIFESTYLE

Thank you to our Founding Partners.

Steve Rogers Crystal Lake City Lifestyle Publisher Angel Collins | Berkshire Hathaway Starck Real Estate angelcollinshomes.com

ASAP Garage Door Repair garagedoorsasap.com

Best Image Career Services bestimagecareerservices.com

Black Diamond Plumbing & Mechanical Inc. blackdiamondtoday.com

Blackstone Cabinetry

CertaPro Painters of McHenry, IL certapro.com/mchenry

Dream Q Mattress dreamqmattress.com

Edward Jones | Financial Advisor Sheldon R Clark, AAMS™ edwardjones.com/us-en/financial-advisor/ sheldon-clark

Kathleen Rietz - Fine Artist & Instructor kathleenrietz.com

Lakeside Healing Arts Boutique vagaro.com/lakesidehealingartsboutique

LM Cosmetic Tattoo lmcosmetictattoo.com

Marj Carpenter RE/MAX Suburban marjcarpenter.com

Mary Kay Cosmetics | Monica O’Neill marykay.com/mmoneill

Mission 516 Chiropractic mission516chiro.com

PUCCI LAW, LLC puccilaw.net

Quality Services & Repair qsrepairs.com

SerenityNP Integrative Health serenitynp.com

Shanti Canine Spa shanticaninespa.com

Shine. Salon & Dry Bar Huntley shinesalon.net

Sunrise Concrete Inc. sunriseconcreteinc.com

Thayer Lynn Carpentry LLC thayerlynn.com

TriStone Development tristonedev.com

TruFitness trufitnesstribe.com

Unique Smiles Dentistry uniquesmilesdentistry.com

Wee Little Paws Inn Crystal Lake weelittlepawsinncl.com

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen.

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @crystallakecitylifestyle

1: The Care4 family and Kiswaukee Brewing handcrafted a special beer for Care4 Breast Cancer Month. 2: Alex Larson, Thayer-Lynn Carpentry, shares his love of biking with his son. 3: Members of Hillstriders Running Club participated in RAGBRAI bike ride across Iowa. 4: Attendees of "4th Fridays at The Dole" enjoy artwork from local artists. 5: Crystal Lake Fire and Rescue kept everyone safe at the Crystal Lake Aquathon. 6: Golfers enjoyed a day supporting Home of The Sparrow at Bull Valley Golf Club. 7: Volunteers all set to check in the runners at the Crystal Lake Half Marathon/12K.

PATTY BELL

DAVID ELLINGER

ADDRESS SOLD PRICESOLD DATE% SOLD/ORIGDOMBDRMS

Volunteers Support Elders in Our Community

Senior Care Volunteer Network supports senior residents who live independently.  SCVN connects over 200 community volunteers with seniors who require assistance to maintain their dignity and quality of life.  The volunteers provide services such as transportation to life-critical, life-sustaining, and life-enriching destinations, friendly in-home visits, minor home repairs, yard work, and shopping  at no charge to the senior.  Plus the largest medical equipment loan closet in McHenry County. Learn more at about SCVN at: www.scvnmchenrycounty.com

Providing Access to Health Services For All

Family Health Partnership Clinic reduces the negative impact of poor access to healthcare by compassionately and respectfully providing a broad spectrum of services to underserved and uninsured women and men in McHenry County. Support of generous sponsors, donors and volunteers makes this possible, as do fundraisers such as the annual Care 4 Breast Cancer Walk which takes place this year on October 22nd. Learn more about the clinic and 5K at: www.hpclinic.org or www.care4breastcancer.org

DANIEL TONYAN OWNER

A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Want to be featured?

Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/CrystalLake

Doing Their Part to Enrich a Child's Future

Kids In Need McHenry County identifies and provides children from high risk situations important resources necessary for a happy and healthy childhood. Their Family Visitation & Resource Center provides families the opportunity to connect in a safe, comfortable, and supervised environment. Second Bridge, their resource program for caregivers, social workers and organizations working with children, has a distribution center filled with clothing and supplies where identified families may shop free of charge.  Learn more at: www.kinmc.org

CONSTRUCTING FUN

Growing up in and around Crystal Lake gave Alex Larson a sense of community and connection.  Both he and his wife, Danielle, decided that they wanted to raise their family in the same community in which they were brought up.  Their ties run so deep that they recently called off their decision to move out of state in favor of continuing to grow their business and plant roots right here at home.

HOW DID THE COMPANY START?

Thayer Lynn Carpentry (named after the middle names of each of their two children) came into being in April, 2020, a time of uncertainty, due to a raging pandemic, when people were confined to their homes.  Alex realized, maybe more than ever, the importance of outdoor spaces that are multifunctional and comfortable for the whole family.

As a former union carpenter, he decided to take the leap of faith, in partnership with Danielle, and create custom outdoor spaces to help bring people together and enjoy their time connecting in their own environment.  What they learned from talking to the community is that most people wanted a space that invited connection and fun. Out of that, Thayer Lynn found purpose:  Design outdoor living spaces

“Mountain biking gives me that adrenaline rush I look for while providing me a healthy outlet to manage stress and enjoy the outdoors.”

Alex Larson, co-owner of Thayer Lynn Carpentry, Finds Joy in His Work and Play

that attract the homeowners and their family and friends to spend more quality time together.

WHAT ARE YOUR OTHER PASSIONS?

While creating beautiful outdoor decks, porches and three season rooms are rewarding professionally, Alex desires a balance in his personal life.  He doesn’t just construct fun for others, he engages in activities that are exciting and fulfilling for himself.  That used to be racing BMX and Motocross bikes but injuries, lack of time to train and becoming a dad led him to mountain biking - something he can do close to home or in places like Arkansas, where he and his family spent time in August.

HOW DO YOU ESCAPE FROM THE DAILY GRIND?

Alex explains, “Mountain biking gives me that adrenaline rush I look for while providing me a healthy outlet to manage stress and enjoy the outdoors.”  Sometimes he squeezes in 30 minutes at Veteran’s Acres on the trails just to clear his head.  Other times he participates in competitive races.  But every time he rides, he remembers how much he loves the feeling of connecting with nature.  It is a joy he now shares with Danielle.  She is not a competitive rider, but together they have experienced some amazing parts of our country from the seat of a bike.  It has become a family affair as they have equipped their bikes to hold their two young children so they, too, can see the outdoors from their parents’ perspective.

WHAT ARE YOUR FUTURE PLANS?

Alex finds joy in hitching up the camper, loading up the bikes and traveling to new biking destinations, such as Iowa, Wisconsin, Colorado and Arkansas.  But he also loves the exhilaration of getting out on the trails close to home.  He is so passionate about mountain biking that it is a goal of his to work to enhance and expand the trail systems in Crystal Lake and the surrounding areas. He would like to see more single lane tracks that thrill-seekers like him can enjoy as well as the more novice riders looking for something a little more challenging than the paved bike paths.

And, when it comes to ThayerLynn, his goals are to design living spaces beyond decking and create atmospheres that encourage families to spend more time outside.

HOW DO YOU THINK PEOPLE WOULD IDENTIFY WITH AND RELATE TO YOU?

The words that Alex and Danielle use to describe their business also reflect who they are as people:  Integrity, Fairness, Passion, Community, Respect. And, oh yes, FUN! Whether building outdoor spaces for clients or hitting the trails with his family, one thing is clear, Alex doesn’t just talk about spending time outdoors, he lives it.

Blending Lives and Merging Styles to Create a New Oasis

Local Designer Helps a Newlywed Couple Achieve a Home Unique to Them

ARTICLE BY PATTI NOBLE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY PATTY BELL

New beginnings.  An opportunity to start fresh.  The excitement of possibilities.  And when it comes to blending families and home decor it can also be filled with a variety of challenges, emotions, and difficult decisions about what to keep from the past and what to replace and refresh so as to create a home that reflects who you are now.

This is where Jeff Rice, owner of Decor Designs, Inc., comes in.  Jeff Rice’s motto is: “Everyone deserves a beautiful home.”  Jeff is a Certified Interior Decorator & Re-designer, Real Estate Stager & Color Specifier.  He takes pride in repurposing and reusing as many existing elements as possible. He believes in “using things in ways you may never have

considered.”  Not only does he design from scratch and completely overhaul existing spaces, he also helps clients find new life in some of their existing pieces.  Sometimes, rearranging a room to change the flow is all it takes. And  most importantly, he has a knack for listening and connecting with his clients. One project that merged all of Jeff’s expertise is a continuation of work for a Crystal Lake couple.  While they have been together for 8 years, they have only recently tied the knot and officially blended their families.  They knew it was time to create a home that was reflective of their joint style and future lives together.  One problem…they weren’t even sure what their style actually was!  And to

add complication, these newlyweds had been reusing furniture from previous homes and marriages.  So, now, moving on from the past, they wanted to create a space styled especially for their exciting future together.

The family room, along with the attached kitchen, is the heart of the home.  For these homeowners, it was important to redesign the space to suit the needs of their large family, as they have seven children between them.  Since they had worked with Jeff in the past, they knew he was exactly the right person to help them achieve this.  From the minute you step into this home, you feel the warmth and connection. Walking into the family room, it is easy to imagine the gatherings around the stone fireplace, full of conversation and laughter.  Jeff was able to merge some of the couple's existing furniture and decor with new and refreshed pieces to create a space truly reflective of this family.

Jeff’s tip:  For a more designer look, avoid ‘matchy-matchy’!  Mix & Match creates a more custom look in any space.  Weary of mismatched?  Try mixing finishes from the same collection.

The goal of the primary bedroom was a bit different.   These newlyweds had been reusing furniture from previous homes and marriages. It was time to indulge in an oasis that was new and unique to them.  As Jeff explains, "A beautiful bedroom sets the tone for your day and welcomes you back after a hard one.  It is the last thing you see at night and the first sight in the morning.  Updating your bedroom is the best way to pamper yourself."  And in this case, exemplify their new beginning.  While many times Jeff specializes in reusing clients’ existing furniture, times like these call for a complete overhaul.

Jeff’s Tip:  Sometimes, updating only a few items can actually make the ones you don’t change look worse.  In order to enjoy your update, make the most of it by being open to replacing your existing furniture.

By listening to this couple’s story and journey together, Jeff guided them through decisions that resulted in a house designed not only to meet their needs but also reflect their personalities and love for one another.  And now they all feel more like family than just client and designer.  Blended lives, indeed.

Family Room

Designer Jeff Rice

THE FLAVOR OF FALL

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

Apples are the trademark fruit of fall, and with the many varieties to choose from, there is an apple that is sure to please any palate. They can be included in both sweet and savory dishes and are delicious and incredibly healthful. We all have heard the saying, “An apple a day keeps the doctor away.” While they aren’t a cureall, apples are packed full of polyphenols, antioxidants, vitamin C, B vitamins and fiber. Make the most of autumn’s best produce and the flavors of fall with these simple recipes.

APPLE GALETTE WITH CARAMEL DRIZZLE

Easier than pie but with all the same textures, this gooey warm dessert is sure to please. For simplicity, this can be made with a premade crust.

INGREDIENTS: INSTRUCTIONS:

Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups flour

• 1/4 cup sugar

• 1/4 teaspoon salt

• 1 stick cold unsalted butter, cubed

• 1/4 cup iced cold water

Filling:

• 2 apples, peeled and sliced into thin slices

• 1/4 cup packed dark brown sugar

• 1 1/2 tablespoons flour

• 1 1/2 teaspoons lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg

• Caramel sauce

• Optional: 1/4 chopped walnuts or pecans

Crust:

(Note: If running short on time, store bought crust works great, too.)

Mix flour, salt and sugar together in a bowl. Cut in the butter. Add water and mix until moistened. Lightly knead the dough and then form into a ball. Next, flatten dough into a thick circular form and refrigerate for one hour.

Filling:

Mix the apples, flour, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg and brown sugar together in a bowl.

Assemble and Bake:

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Roll the dough into a circle and set on parchment paper. Arrange apples in center of dough, leaving about one inch of space for the edges. Fold crust over the apples and press to seal edges. Drizzle with caramel sauce and sprinkle with pecans or walnuts. Bake for 35 minutes. Serve with caramel sauce and ice-cream.

ELEVATED GRILLED CHEESE

This take on the classic grilled cheese is sure to satisfy your fall cravings. With the combined flavors of savory and sweet, it packs a punch for your taste buds.

INGREDIENTS: INSTRUCTIONS:

• 1/4 red onion, sliced

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• Sliced sourdough bread

• 1-2 tablespoons butter

• 4 ounces Brie, sliced

• Fig jam, or preferred choice of jam

• 1 Granny smith apple, sliced

• Arugula

• Thinly sliced ham, optional

Heat olive oil in the skillet and add sliced onions. Cook for a few minutes and then add brown sugar. Sauté until soft. Set aside. Butter the outside of the sourdough bread. Next, spread jam on the inside of both slices. Add cheese, apples, onions and arugula. If using meat, add as well. Top with slice of bread and grill on skillet until both sides are toasted and cheese is melted. Serve and enjoy!

APPLE CHUTNEY

This Indian-inspired dish is the perfect fall topping for pork chops and also pairs nicely with ham. This is so easy to make and will fill your kitchen with the aroma of fall.

INGREDIENTS:

• 4 tablespoons butter

• 2 cups Granny Smith apple, chopped

• ¼ cup pecans or walnuts

• 1/3 cup apple juice

• 3 tablespoons brown sugar

• 3 tablespoons dried cranberries

• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

• ¾ teaspoon cinnamon

• ½ teaspoon nutmeg

INSTRUCTIONS:

Heat butter in saucepan, then add remaining ingredients. Cook over medium heat until the sauce has cooked down and the apples are tender. Serve over pork chops. Enjoy!

Hosting the Perfect Dinner Party

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

Your next event, served alfresco

Catering experts Chef Kyle and Hannah Williams, owners of Savor & Swirl culinary company, create an outdoor dinner party with chef-driven perennial dishes served in beautiful seasonal settings. For this alfresco dinner party, Chef Kyle draws on his favorite recipes updated for a modern palate and paired with wine selections to complement the bountiful feast.

Insider Tips for Hosting:

• Build a menu around the season. Start with what produce is available locally based on the season for the most authentic meal experience. For instance, Chef Kyle says “In November, people crave turkey, sage stuffing and cranberry sauce,” but that meal served in the heat of Summer wouldn’t hit the same. In-season fruits and vegetables will always be of highest quality and best taste.

• Always greet guests with a beverage and appetizers. “Offer champagne for wine-lovers or a sparkling drink or signature cocktail. It’s all about serving guests to the highest caliber,” Kyle says.

• Draw inspiration from the season’s colors and temperatures. For Spring and Summer, think flowers, fresh herbs and linens. For Fall, think flannel blankets, wooden tables, fire pits, open grills, string lights and candles to create a really cool environment you haven’t been able to do all summer.” For Winter, head indoors to create a cozy environment for guests to connect.

• “You can’t go wrong with fresh flowers,” Hannah says, “but keep bouquets low to not interfere with conversation flowing. For fall, I like richer, jewel-toned florals to mix and match and keep whimsical. I vary glass vases with bur - nished brass for warm fall vibes.”

• An easy but thoughtful detail is to put a simple menu at each place setting, so guests know what to expect. “Add a pen, so guests can jot tasting notes, especially for wine pairings or multiple courses,” Hannah says. “Guests can share comments, then take the menu home as a sweet reminder of the event.”

• Follow the French principle of mise en place or everything in place before your event. “This is actually our company’s name,” Kyle says. “It’s that important to us. Make sure the wines are all open, cocktails are pre-made, place settings are out, candles are lit and music is playing. When guests arrive, it gives that wow-factor and shows you intentionally made them feel special.”

• To build confidence as a host, start small and practice. “Keep the menu and guest list small,” Kyle says. “Choose recipes you already have confidence in. If you make a great Beef Stroganoff, then go with that. People will love it!”

• As fun as it is to dine outside, always have an indoors back-up plan. “We’ve had to bring it indoors before,” Hannah says. “It’s still fun.” Insider Tips for Hosting: “Think flannel blankets, wooden tables, fire pits, open grills, string lights and candles to create a really cool environment you haven’t been able to do all summer.”

Read on for some of Chef Kyle’s favorite recipes.

Fresh Roasted Brussels Sprouts & Hardwood Smoked Bacon

Yield: 6 servings

• 4 cups Brussels sprouts, raw, halved

• 1-2 tablespoons olive oil

• ¼ cup yellow onion, sliced

• 1 tablespoon garlic, sliced thin

• 1-2 cups bacon, smoked, thick cut, large dice

• Salt, pepper to taste

• 2 tablespoons real butter, unsalted

• Optional garnish: 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped

METHOD OF PREPARATION:

1. Preheat oven to 400 °F for convection setting, (425 °F conventional).

2. In mixing bowl, add oil and cut raw Brussels sprouts. Season with salt and pepper.

3. Place seasoned sprouts on baking sheet and bake in oven until done, about 20-40 minutes (soft yet still with good texture and crispy edges with some dark brown color). Remove from oven.

4. Place large sauté pan on medium heat and render bacon. Add a splash of olive oil to get it going, if needed. Cook until bacon is crispy and golden brown, 5-10 minutes.

5. Add onions to pan and cook until soft, 5-8 minutes.

6. Turn heat to high and add garlic and butter and cook for 1 minute.

7. Add roasted Brussels sprouts to pan and toss all together. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

8. For optional garnishes, add fresh chopped parsley.

9. Serve and enjoy!

CHEF NOTES:

• If Brussels sprouts are large, cut in quarters.

• Rendering bacon means extracting the bacon fat which adds a lot of flavor to the dish.

Heirloom Root

Vegetable Hash

Yield: 6-10 servings

• 2 cups heirloom carrot, cubed

• 2 cups heirloom rutabaga, peeled, cubed

• 2 cups heirloom parsnip, cubed

• 1 cup heirloom turnip, cubed

• 2 cups heirloom marble potatoes, halved

• 3 tablespoons rosemary, fresh, de-stemmed, chopped

• 1 tablespoon thyme, fresh, de-stemmed, chopped

• 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• Salt – to taste

• Pepper – to taste

• Optional garnish: 1 tablespoon parsley, chopped

METHOD OF PREPARATION:

1. Pre-heat oven to 400°F on convection setting (425°F conventional).

2. In mixing bowl, add oil and raw cut vegetables. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

3. Place seasoned vegetables on oiled baking sheet and bake in oven until they are caramelized and tender, about 30-60 minutes. Will be soft yet still with good texture and crispy edges with some lightly charred areas.

4. Remove from oven once finished cooking.

5. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley.

6. Enjoy.

Cranberry Orange

Zest Sauce

Yields 4 cups

• 3 cups cranberries, fresh or frozen

• 1 cup cranberry juice, sweetened

• 1 piece orange peel

• 1 each orange for zesting

• ½ cup orange juice, freshly juiced

• 3 each cinnamon stick

• ¼ teaspoon clove, ground

• ¼ teaspoon allspice, ground

• ½ cup sugar

• Pinch salt

METHOD OF PREPARATION:

1. In medium saucepot on high heat, add everything except orange peel and orange zest. Bring ingredients to boil, then reduce to a simmer with lid.

2. While simmering, stir occasionally with rubber spatula ensuring bottom does not burn. Simmer for 30 minutes or until sauce thickens.

3. Remove lid and add orange peel and season to taste. Can add more sugar or spice if needed.

4. Once sauce is thickened and most liquid has evaporated, remove orange peel and cinnamon sticks and remove pot from heat.

5. With hand-held blender, puree sauce, keeping some texture.

6. Freshly grate in orange zest, stir and season to taste.

7. Transfer sauce to jar and place in refrigerator to cool overnight.

8. Enjoy!

CHEF NOTES:

• Enjoy with all types of poultry and game birds.

• Do not use ground cinnamon.

• Can puree with blender if you do not have hand-held blender.

• Consistency should be thick sauce and not a jelly.

ELEVATE YOUR CLOSET 01

8 WAYS TO ORGANIZE AND INJECT STYLE INTO YOUR SPACE

ARTICLE BY HALEY WILLIAMS | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CASSANDRA CASTANEDA

Every woman dreams of an organized and beautiful closet space, but it often comes last on the list of places that get their time and attention. Follow our nine tips for transforming and elevating your closet. How you organize your closet will of course differ based on the size of your space, the size of your wardrobe, and the kind of life you lead. But applying these guidelines will result in a much more organized and aesthetically pleasing space.

FACE CLOTHES THE SAME DIRECTION

It may seem silly, but when dealing with a small space, little things count. Hanging all clothes the same direction is a no-brainer for continuity in your closet.

BY KIND AND COLOR 02 03 04 05

NEGATIVE SPACE HIDDEN STORAGE

Hidden storage is a game changer in keeping a closet visually clean. Tuck folded clothes behind closed cabinet doors if the space is multipurpose. The floor-toceiling built-ins in Keri’s closet contain folded clothes, athleisure and other items she needs as she gets ready each day. Tuck away the least-used items: Use hidden storage and the very top of the closet for out-of-season items and stuff only worn a few times a year.

Using space efficiently is important, but keep in mind every good design includes some negative space. For instance, consider adding built-ins on the long wall of your closet but keep the short wall open with a mirror.

CONTINUED > 29 | CITYLIFESTYLE.COM/CRYSTALLAKE OCTOBER 2023

UPGRADED HANGERS

The simplest and fastest way to make a BIG difference in your closet organization is to get matching hangers that go beyond the traditional plastic or wire hangers. And for sure ditch any with paper from the dry cleaner!

07

BAG & SHOE STORAGE

Alternate the way shoes are facing. This ultimately helps fit more on each row and provide a visually appealing way to display those prized possessions.

Everyone understands the frustration of searching for that one clutch when rushing out for the evening. Bags benefit from a space all their own. Get clear container storage for small bags and purses so you can locate and access them easily.

06 08

MAKE A STATEMENT

Why use an armchair when you have room for a sofa? Slide up a stool and colorful area rug to complete the look. If you have excessive wall space, consider a mini gallery wall or a statement wall with wallpaper to polish things off.

There is nothing more precious than time...

815-444-097 BlackDiamondToday

For your plumbing, electric, heating or air conditioning emergencies, count on Black Diamond

And you can spend more time doing what you love with the ones you love.

Grooming in the Lap Of Luxury

With over 33 years of experience in the grooming industry, Amanda opened Shanti Canine Spa to give your furry family member the best possible grooming experience. Shanti Canine Spa has a peaceful relaxed atmosphere with one to two dogs present at a time.

THE POWER OF FRESH COLOR

Let CertaPro Painters® of McHenry paint your home with the care and attention to detail that only a local neighborhood company can offer. Rejuvenate your real estate! And it all starts with a FREE, no-obligation estimate.

A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

OCTOBER 7TH

10th Annual Woodstock Ale Fest

CORNER OF CLAY & NEWELL STREETS, WOODSTOCK, IL | 1:00 PM

Enjoy American craft beer while supporting Independence Health & Therapy in their mission to improve the lives of people in McHenry County. Pre-purchase tickets then enjoy a day of tasting from local brewers and distillers, food for purchase from local vendors and live music, raffles and more!  21+ event. 1:00-5:00pm rain or shine. Learn more and purchase tickets at:  www.woodstockalefest.org

OCTOBER 8TH

Walk to End Alzheimer'sMcHenry County

CORNER OF WILLIAMS & BRINK STREETS, DOWNTOWN CRYSTAL LAKE | 8:00 AM

At the Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s®,  we’re fighting for a different future. For families facing the disease today. For more time. For treatments. We’re closer than ever to stopping Alzheimer’s. But to get there, we need you. Join us for the world’s largest fundraiser to fight the disease. Register today at www.act.alz.org/McHenryCounty

OCTOBER 15TH

Witches Ride & Run

THE DOLE MANSION, CRYSTAL LAKE | 10:00 AM

Bring your broomstick (or bike) to Dole Mansion for a wicked 4.5 (or 2.6) miles ride or walk through the Gates and Wedgewood.  Enjoy a Witches Brew from Farmer's Market+, mini tacos from Antigua,

Each

Painters® business is independently owned and operated.

and donuts from Joe + Dough. $25/ person.  Must be 18+. Proceeds benefit McHenry County’s Big Brothers Big Sisters. Check-in: 10am.  Ride/walk begins: 12pm.  Learn more: www.facebook.com/ 2ndAnnualWitchesRide/Walk

OCTOBER 19TH

Ladies Night Out

DOWNTOWN CRYSTAL LAKE | 5:00 PM

Ladies Night Out is FREE to all ladies.  5:00-9:00pm.  Enjoy shopping, special deals, treats, and MORE at many Downtown Crystal Lake businesses.   Pick up a map and list of participating businesses and promotions at the tent by the corner of Brink and Williams Streets.  Then, indulge in dinner at one of the downtown restaurants. Learn more at: www.downtowncl.org

OCTOBER 22ND

Care4 Breast Cancer Hybrid 5k

WOODSTOCK NORTH HIGH SCHOOL, WOODSTOCK, IL | 8:30 AM

The Care4 Breast Cancer 5K honors breast cancer survivors, warriors and loved ones we have lost too early. The Care4 5K raises critical funds to support Family Health Partnership Clinic, specifically, for breast cancer education, early diagnosis & detection, annual screenings and other women's health programs. Register or volunteer at:   www.care4breastcancer.org

OCTOBER 28TH

48th Annual Country Christmas Arts & Crafts Show

CRYSTAL LAKE SOUTH HIGH SCHOOL | 8:30 AM

Stop by the largest indoor arts & crafts show in McHenry County, presented by the Crystal Lake South Boosters.  See what’s new plus check out all your favorites. Find unique gifts or something for yourself.  Saturday 8:30am-4:00pm, Sunday 9:00am3:00pm.  Free Parking. $3 per person ages 12 and older. More info at: www.clsboosters.org/craft-show-html

Meet the

Check out some of Steve's favorite things

ARTICLE BY PATTI NOBLE

PHOTOGRAPHY BY PATTY BELL, DAVID BRADBURN

When my wife and I decided to relocate from a suburb in Lake County to McHenry County, I quickly realized this was home!  From the welcoming, community-oriented vibe to all the great outdoor opportunities to great dining and entertainment experiences, I am excited every day to be a resident here.  One of my favorite things is meeting the people.  I have met long-time, generational residents who share stories of how Crystal Lake and surrounding towns have evolved.  I have spoken with young couples just starting out their lives together and hopeful for the future with their children.  Everyone I speak to is proud of this community and it is clear to see.  I count myself as one of them. I am hooked!  Spend a little time and I am sure you will see why!

01 A go-to, trendy space for weekly editorial meetings with tasty coffee, mocktails and more. The Other Side Cafe. www.the-other-side.org // 02 When not in McHenry County, fishing in Canada is a MUST for catching the Muskies! // 03 So much to see from behind the handlebars of a Harley. Beautiful open roads and scenery, just a quick ride outside of town. // 04 Pontoon rides with friends is a great way to relax! // 05 Summer festivals with live music are good, old-fashioned fun. // 06 The City of Crystal Lake