Issuu

Health and Wellness Issue

F O O D + B E V E R AG E

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JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C RYSTA L L A KE

LIFESTYLE LETTER

Welcome to 2024 For many of us, this time of year is full of excitement. It presents us with a reset, new horizons and goals to pursue. But for others, January can be a reminder of failed attempts from years past and the burden of expectation that this year will be different. When it comes to anything in life - business, finance, food, home and personal health – it’s not what you do some days that has the greatest effect it’s what you do most days. Balance is the key! For instance, taking a vacation every day would be financially and practically unfeasible, but taking a trip a few times a year is doable. Having a gourmet steak dinner with a few cocktails and creme brulee every night for dinner may not be the best for your health, but doing so once in a while might be fine! Remember it's those most-of-the-time choices that have the greatest, most long-lasting impact. So, it’s okay to plan the vacation AND work to establish more regular rest in your work week. Join a fitness community or gym AND enjoy that dessert you’ve been wanting to try. Combining the things you do just sometimes and those you do most days will lead to a more peaceful, fulfilling and fabulous year. Here’s to you! We’re rooting for you.

January 2024 PUBLISHER

Steve Rogers | steve.rogers@citylifestyle.com E D I TO R

Patti Noble | patti.noble@citylifestyle.com P U B L I S H E R AS S I STAN T

Patricia Pfaller | patricia.pfaller@citylifestyle.com CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Katie Bobrow C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S

David Bradburn, Patty Bell

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson

STEVE ROGERS, PUBLISHER @ C R Y S TA L L A K E C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E

TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein AD DESIGNER Rachel Chrisman LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh

Discover Crystal Lake City Lifestyle in the towns of Crystal Lake, Village of Lakewood, Prairie Grove, and Huntley.

Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise. Proverbs 3:5-6 Crystal Lake City Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the Crystal Lake area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle

Visit our Instagram C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E . C O M / C R Y S TA L L A K E

L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

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 Crystal Lake City Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

inside the issue JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | HEA LT H & W EL L N ES S

12 18

Featured

18 22 28 6

Healing with Heart and Hands

The Inspiring Journey of Chiropractor Ron Robinson and Mission 516

Staying Curious and Leading with Compassion

Carolyn Johnson, NP uses an integrative approach to women’s healthcare

Comfort Foods

Three hearty meals to warm you from the inside out!

Books for Every Mood

5 books recommended to stave off the winter blues

28 On the Cover

Departments

Warm soup on a cold winter day”. David Bradburn, forktheman. com, is a local filmmaker and photographer dedicated to community and inclusion. Cover shoot styled by: Pat Pfaller

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Must See HEALTH + WELLNESS

Local Limelight HEALTH + WELLNESS

Culinary Creations FOOD + BEVERAG E

How To HEALTH + WELLNESS

Trend Setter ENTERTAINMENT

Healthy Lifestyle FITNESS

Locally Sourced WELLNESS

Events

Photography: David Bradburn

JANUARY 2024

city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

DAVID ELLINGER

ART PICCHI

7 6

1: Even the Grinch had fun at the annual Lights Parade downtown Crystal Lake 2: Pioneer Women’s Network welcomes guests to the annual Pioneer Center for Human Services’ luncheon 3: Gobble, Gobble! Participants in the Turkey Trot to benefit The Crystal Lake Food Pantry 4: Crystal Lake Hillstriders cross the finish line at the Thanksgiving Day fun run/walk 5: Dr. Ron and family at The Thanksgiving Day Parade in Chicago 6: Senior Care Volunteer Network staff and volunteers ready to deliver poinsettias for their annual sale 7: Realtor Marj Carpenter competes in the Schaumburg Turkey Trot. Way to go, Marj!

CONTINUED >

C I T Y SC E N E

Real Estate Report Recently Sold Properties in the Crystal Lake Area ADDRESS

SOLD PRICE

SOLD DATE

% SOLD/ORIG

DOM

BDRMS

BATHS

0000 Haligus Rd

$1,500,000

9/5/2023

83%

109

3301 Berry St

$900,000

10/31/2023

100%

5.1

5800 Edgewood Rd

$735,000

10/30/2023

98%

3.1

5408 Rita Ave

$730,000

11/16/2023

93%

5.0

8520 Trevino Way

$717,500

9/20/2023

103%

3.1

716 Saddle Ridge

$676,000

11/13/2023

102%

3.1

6215 Stonecastle Ln

$660,000

11/17/2023

91%

4.1

650 Woodland Dr

$645,000

11/9/2023

98%

3.0

9708 Palmer Dr

$638,000

10/21/2023

99%

4.1

9316 N Muirfield Dr

$630,000

11/15/2023

93%

4.1

2735 Crystal Way

$619,000

9/1/2023

100%

2.1

6609 Colonel Holcomb Dr

$610,000

9/11/2023

98%

3.0

6520 Colonel Holcomb Dr

$600,000

11/21/2023

86%

100

4.0

8330 Watson Cir

$599,999

10/11/2023

99%

3.0

8510 Trevino Way

$590,500

11/30/2023

92%

4.1

3.1

1165 Overhill Ct

$590,000

10/31/2023

100%

139 Center St

$590,000

9/22/2023

100%

3.1

3712 Sutton Woods Dr

$589,000

11/29/2023

100%

3.2

4115 S Il Route 31

$575,000

9/14/2023

85%

404

1.1

1195 Williamsbury Dr

$569,600

11/22/2023

100%

3.1

1199 Williamsbury Dr

$567,700

11/22/2023

100%

3.0

1240 Larswood Ct

$560,000

11/15/2023

100%

3.1

1245 Larswood Ct

$555,000

11/16/2023

94%

2.1

1220 Buckeye Cir

$550,690

12/1/2023

97%

2.1

7105 Marsh Dr

$550,000

11/6/2023

100%

2.1

This representation is based in whole or in part on data supplied by Midwest Real Estate Data Multiple Listing Service (MRED MLS), which does not guarantee nor is in any way responsible for its accuracy. Data provided by MRED may not reflect all real estate activity in the market. Properties listed may have been represented by various brokerages as indicated in MRED MLS data. This data is a sampling from 9/1/23 - 12/1/23. DOM is Days on Market.

MARJ CARPENTER Licensed Managing Broker

Cell: 815-444-MARJ (6275) Marj@MarjCarpenter.com www.MarjCarpenter.com 7107 Pingree Road Crystal Lake, IL 60014

I donate to Children's Miracle Network with every closing.

621 N Concord Drive, Bull Valley, IL

city scene CONTINUED

8: Enjoying the lighting of Woodstock Square 9: Options & Advocacy staff enjoying their “Roaring 20s” gala event 10: All dressed up, Roaring 20s style, to attend the Options & Advocacy gala

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business monthly A R O U N D U P O F N E W S F R O M LO C A L B U S I N E S S E S

Hope, Inclusion and Compassion...Empowering Individuals with Mental Illnesses Leading the charge of mental wellness through compassionate support, education, and advocacy to improve the quality of life of our community at no cost is the mission of the National Alliance on Mental Illness of McHenry County (NAMI MCH). NAMI-MCH provides non-clinical mental health referral and linkage support in partnership with all community-based systems of care. NAMI's services complement those of clinical mental health providers. Services include: groups, workshops, direct support and more. Visit: namimch.org

Making Strides to Reduce Stigma and Harm Live4Lali works to reduce stigma and prevent substance use disorder among individuals, families, and communities, and minimize associated health, legal and social harms. Born out of a tragic situation fueled by a lack of information, Live4Lali focuses on education, prevention and advocacy for individuals and families. The goal is to provide compassionate support and harm reduction through community outreach programs, free Narcan training and supplies, and support groups. Learn more, seek support, donate or volunteer: live4lali.org

The Strength of a Sparrow Home of the Sparrow’s mission is to provide hope, opportunity and support that empowers women and children from homelessness to self-sufficiency. Recently relocating the headquarters from McHenry to a larger facility in Woodstock enables HOS to better serve clients with more programming and classes. HOS continues to manage its transitional shelter, affordable housing, subsidized apartments, and six Sparrow's Nest Thrift Stores. Additionally, HOS operates a rapid rehousing program for those in crisis. Learn more: hosparrow.org

Want to be featured? G E T I N T O U C H AT C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E . C O M / C R Y S TA L L A K E

JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C RYSTA L L A KE

N LI

ND S

HE A

E A H RT A H T I

THE INSPIRING JOURNEY OF CHIROPRACTOR RON ROBINSON AND MISSION 516 ARTICLE BY KATIE BOBROW | PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID BRADBURN

M UST SE E | HEALTH + W ELLN E SS

“Chiropractic care has the power to do great things” In a humble corner of a local strip mall right here in our community, a chiropractor named Dr. Ron Robinson stands out not only for his commitment to full-spectrum chiropractic care but also for his inspiring passion to give back to his community. Dr. Ron believes that when you have a gift you should share it, and alongside his wife Dana, Dr. Ron has built a foundation of healing and generosity through their business, Mission 516, which they established in 2021. The journey of Mission 516 began long before its official inception. In 2007, Dr. Ron and Dana embarked on their first mission trip to Kenya, where they witnessed firsthand the transformative power of compassionate healthcare in underserved communities. Motivated by this experience, they continued their mission work,

extending their reach to Mexico, aiming to make a positive impact on the lives of those in need. While Dr. Ron provided adjustments for locals, Dana led yoga classes for children, sharing both the fun and the benefits. Together they served hundreds of individuals and provided much needed services to the local community. Dr. Ron knew that he had a calling beyond chiropractic care. A mission that he had yet to fulfill. He continued the chiropractic work he was passionate about until the timing felt right and Dr. Ron and his wife embarked on their adventure to open Mission 516 and spread health and generosity to individuals not just locally but globally as well. Dr. Ron's passion for mission work goes beyond the chiropractic adjustments he performs in his local practice. It emanates CONTINUED >

JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C RYSTA L L A KE

M UST SE E | HEALTH + W ELLN E SS

from a deep belief in kindness and connection. "I like to show what the power of generosity and love can do," he says, encapsulating the essence of Mission 516. This belief is not just a slogan for Dr. Ron and Dana; it's a guiding principle that fuels their efforts to bring healing to communities far beyond the borders of McHenry County. The name "Mission 516" holds a profound significance. It's a combination of Dr. Ron's belief that his life's work is to make a positive impact, coupled with a reference to his favorite Bible verse, Matthew 5:16, which reads: "Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven." This biblical verse perfectly epitomizes the spirit of Mission 516, and the Robinsons' family values, echoing the idea that through selfless acts of kindness, one can inspire and uplift others. Dana contributes to community well-being through her yoga studio, Sweet Feet, operating out of the same location. Offering prenatal, baby-and-me, young child, and tween classes, Sweet Feet seamlessly integrates with Mission 516, reflecting the couple's whole-body approach to health and wellness. Through Sweet Feet, Dana creates a space for individuals to explore the benefits of yoga, aligning the mind, body, and spirit and empowering children and families to be the best version of themselves. The Robinsons are not only dedicated to promoting physical well-being but also to inspiring others to give back. Their passion for community service is contagious,

and they firmly believe that everyone possesses unique gifts that can be used to make a positive impact. By leading through example, they encourage others to find ways to give back within their own spheres of influence. Dr. Ron advocates for what he terms "full spectrum" chiropractic care. He speaks passionately about what chiropractic care can do for all people. His youngest client is just a few days old, highlighting the versatility of chiropractic care. Dr. Ron emphasizes that it’s not just a standalone solution but can be a crucial piece of the overall health puzzle; "sometimes it is the missing piece, and sometimes it is an additional piece to the whole puzzle," he asserts. This philosophy underscores the comprehensive nature of Mission 516's approach to healthcare, recognizing that physical well-being is interconnected with mental and emotional health. Beyond the physical benefits, Dr. Ron passionately believes in the mental and emotional transformations that chiropractic care can facilitate. He notes, "Chiropractic care has the power to do great things, not just physically but mentally as well." This holistic perspective aligns with the Robinsons' commitment to fostering a sense of well-being that extends beyond the adjustments made within the four walls of their practice. Dr. Ron Robinson and his wife Dana exemplify the true essence of community care. Through Mission 516, they have created a platform that pushes the boundaries past chiropractic care and healing. CONTINUED >

JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C RYSTA L L A KE

“I like to show what the power of generosity and love can do”

Their mission trips, yoga classes, and commitment to their local community demonstrate their dedication to holistic health. Inspired by their experiences and guided by a belief in the transformative power of generosity and love, the Robinsons invite our community to join them in making a positive impact, one adjustment at a time.

M UST SE E | HEALTH + W ELLN E SS

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Staying Curious and Leading with Compassion CAROLYN JOHNSON, NP USES AN INTEGRATIVE APPROACH TO WOMEN’S HEALTHCARE

Since becoming a nurse practitioner in 1995, Carolyn Johnson has worked in Labor and Delivery/ICU, NICU, and postpartum before opening Serenity in 2015, with the goal of helping women live a full and healthy life through functional medicine. In 2021, she moved her practice to a new space in Crystal Lake and now, with a team of specialized healthcare professionals, she is helping change the lives of many women in and around McHenry County.

Serenity WHY THE NURSING PROFESSION?

When Carolyn was 10 years old, both her mother and grandmother went to nursing school. It was a bold step for two women from a modest background. She watched them work to achieve their goals and learned what it meant to be of service. All the while, she witnessed family and friends make unhealthy choices often leading them down a path of self-destruction and broken relationships. She, herself, experienced her own harmful or traumatizing relationships which she had to learn to navigate and set boundaries around. These experiences strengthened her deep compassion for people. She learned to be curious, inquisitive and analytical, all skills she now adds as “tools in her toolbox”. And because she had her own story, she had a strong yearning to learn other women’s stories and to help and heal where she was able. For Carolyn, the nursing profession felt like the right fit. And she has since evolved into a holistic practitioner who listens first.

ARTICLE BY PATTI NOBLE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY PATTY BELL AND ROBBEYE JEPSON PHOTOGRAPHY

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | HEALT H + WE LLN E SS

WHO IS CAROLYN?

Upon meeting Carolyn, you are immediately drawn to her warm, welcoming aura. Her wide smile and laid-back way create the feeling that you’ve known each other for years. Within minutes of speaking with her, you feel her empathic, detail-oriented nature. Whether it’s the way she leans in when speaking or listening or the way she shares her perspective with ease or how she puts your comfort before hers, you feel her genuine desire to connect. She believes that the best healing comes from a collaboration between practitioner and client. Building that rapport is at the core of who Carolyn is. She explains, “My goal is to always meet a person where they are at. Empowering them to discover and bring forth the inner knowing that they had never before explored is what fulfills me most.”

WHO IS THE IDEAL CLIENT?

While, in the past, Carolyn’s practice has included men and children, it has evolved to focus more exclusively on women’s health. She does this through a wellness-based functional medicine approach which seeks to find the root causes of health issues and emphasizes preventative care. In Carolyn’s experience, “Oftentimes it’s an illness or other ailment that forces women to seek support for their healthcare and many of them have no idea where to begin.”

HOW IS CAROLYN’S APPROACH UNIQUE?

Carolyn believes the key is balance. As a holistic practitioner, she designs a plan that is exclusive to each client and their specific need. These plans include bio-identical hormone replacement pills, creams, patches and pellets which Carolyn suggests women should seek out,

“Oftentimes it’s an illness or other ailment that forces women to seek support for their healthcare and many of them have no idea where to begin.” CONTINUED >

JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C RYSTA L L A KE

“My goal is to always meet a person where they are at. Empowering them to discover and bring forth the inner knowing that they had never before explored is what fulfills me most.”

NOT fear; high-dose, immunity-boosting vitamin infusions; supplements; and occasionally, pharmaceutical medications. This self-described perfectionist with a strong attention to detail puts her skills to work when consulting with women who turn to her, often in a time of desperation when they feel they have exhausted all their options and think they have to settle for the way things are. A client’s comfort is first and foremost on her mind. If a woman can feel relaxed, heard, and understood, when in her office for a consult, a treatment or just a quick check-in, then she can rest easier knowing she provided that space for each of them.

WHAT ABOUT SELF CARE?

To squash that little voice of skepticism, the “imposter syndrome,” telling us we are not worthy, capable, or deserving, Carolyn continues her education to build confidence in her women’s health services. To ground herself and remember who she is, she turns to her artistic side, cooking and creating healthy meals or painting and drawing as her own form of art therapy. Recently she has discovered EFT tapping as a way to calm the nervous system and hit the reset button. And most of all she remains curious.

LOCA L LIM E LIGH T | HEALT H + WE LLN E SS

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JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C RYSTA L L A KE

Comfort Foods

THREE HEARTY MEALS TO WARM YOU FROM THE INSIDE OUT!

ARTICLE BY PATTI NOBLE & PAT PFALLER

C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

HE ART Y LENTIL SOUP

TUSCAN CHICKEN, BE AN & S P I N AC H S O U P

ingredients • 1 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil • 1 tbsp Unsalted butter • 2 garlic cloves, minced • 1 cup carrots, chopped • 1 medium onion, chopped • 2 cans Cannellini beans, rinsed and drained • 4 cups Chicken broth • 2 cups Vegetable broth • 3 cups chicken, cooked and chopped • 10oz. fresh spinach • 2 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled • Italian Seasoning • Salt and pepper • Fresh Parmesan cheese directions 1. Heat extra virgin olive oil and butter. Add onion, garlic, and carrots. Saute 3 minutes. 2. Add beans, broths, 1 tbsp. Italian Seasoning. Simmer 10 minutes 3. Add chicken, spinach, salt & pepper to taste. Simmer for 1 hour. 4. Top with crumbled bacon and shaved parmesan cheese. Serve with warm, crusty bread.

ingredients • 1 lb green lentils, rinsed and drained • 4 cups yellow onion, diced • 3 garlic cloves, minced • 1/4 cup olive oil • 1 tbsp. kosher salt • 1 1/2 tsp. black pepper • 1 tsp. dried thyme • 1 tsp. cumin • 3 cups carrots, chopped • 3 quarts chicken stock • 1/4 cup tomato paste • 2 tbsp. red wine or vinegar • Fresh Parmesan directions 1. Bring a medium pot of water to a boil. Pour over large bowl of lentils. Cover 15 minutes 2. Saute onions, carrots, garlic, thyme, cumin, salt and pepper in olive oil. 20 minutes 3. Stir in chicken stock, tomato paste, and lentils. Cover and bring to boil. 4. Add red wine/vinegar, reduce heat, simmer 1 hour. 5. Serve topped with Parmesan

JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C RYSTA L L A KE

ingredients • 4 tbsp. Extra virgin olive oil • 2 lbs. Chuck roast, cut into 1-inch pieces, patted dry • 2 medium leeks (white and light green parts, only), cut into 1/2-inch pieces • 4 large garlic cloves, minced • 1 cup low-sodium chicken stock • 2 cups tomato juice • 2 medium carrots, peeled, diced into 1/2inch pieces • 1 large red pepper, sliced into 1/2-inch strips • 1 large potato, peeled, diced into 1/2-inch pieces • Salt • Freshly cracked black pepper • 1/2 cup fresh minced basil • 3/4 cup dry elbow macaroni, cooked al dente

directions 1. Preheat oven to 325 degrees. 2. Lightly coat a heavy casserole with oil, place over medium-high heat. 3. Working in batches, brown beef on all sides, adding oil as needed. Do not overcrowd the pan. Once browned, use tongs to transfer the meat to a plate. 4. Add the leeks and garlic to casserole. Reduce heat to medium-low. Cover casserole, cook until tender - about 15 minutes - stirring occasionally. 5. Pour in chicken stock and tomato juice. Increase heat and bring to a boil, stirring to release any browned bits on the bottom. 6. Return the meat and any juices to casserole, stir in the carrots. Cover and bake for 1 hour 7. Add potato and peppers, continue to bake until meat is tender - approx. 1.5 hours 8. Season with salt, pepper and basil 9. Serve over macaroni

P R OV E N C A L-S T Y L E B E E F S T E W 24

C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

At Mission 516 and Sweet Feet Yoga we are inspired to serve

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the “m”

SHEDDING LIGHT ON MENOPAUSE SYMPTOMS AND STRATEGIES TO COMBAT THEIR EFFECTS ARTICLE BY PATTI NOBLE

o w rd 26

H OT SP OT | HEALTH + W ELLN E SS

ONE When hormone levels drop, serotonin levels also fall. Because of this, women often experience increased irritability, anxiety and depression. Exercise promotes endorphins, natural mood-boosters that can lessen depression and suppresses cortisol the stress hormone that can keep us in a state of fight-or-flight. Even just 20 minutes a day of light to moderate exercise can have a positive effect.

TWO Studies suggest decreasing estrogen levels are the main culprit of hot flashes, those menacing feelings of intense warmth through your upper body. Never mind the night sweats! Want to reduce the effects? Drink more water and less caffeine, eat more water-rich foods like berries, cucumbers and avocado and supplement with Black Cohosh which can help regulate body temperature. BONUS: it also has pain-reducing properties.

THREE Decreasing hormones are behind most menopausal symptoms and replenishing them could help lessen their stronghold. Synthetic forms have risks that often outweigh the benefits. However, Bio-identical hormones, in the form of creams, pills, patches, and pellets, are derived from plants chemically identical to those our bodies produce. Consult with a holistic approach practitioner to learn more about these options.

JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C RYSTA L L A KE

BOOKS FOR 3

e ve r y mood ONE: Greenlights, By: Matthew McConaughey Fascinating account of McConaughey’s life TWO: The Book of Lost Friends, By: Lisa Wingate Historical fiction

THREE: Remarkably Bright Creatures, By: Shelby Van Pelt Beautiful story about hope in unlikely places

5 5 books recommended to stave off the winter blues. ARTICLE BY KATIE BOBROW

T R E N D SE T T E R | ENTERTAIN ME N T

FOUR: Think Again: The Power of Knowing What You Don’t Know, By: Adam Grant Learning about yourself and others FIVE: The Storyteller: Tales of Life and Music, By: David Grohl For the music lover

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We know what we’re doing! Our company does driveways, patios, sidewalks, walls, Residential foundations, garage foundations & slabs. We are a company that is trustworthy, efficient, steadfast, competent, diligent with our work and with our communications with customers..and have been doing so for 35+ years.

815-459-0261 sunriseconcreteinc.com

linda380292@aol.com Crystal Lake, Illinois 60014

JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C RYSTA L L A KE

IMMUNITY

BOOST Color and variety are the secret to a healthier winter. ARTICLE BY KLAUDIA BURIAN, MYTULSI-TUNE IN

H EA LT H Y LIF E ST Y LE | FI T N E SS

1 1. A LLIUMS: ONIONS A ND GA R LIC These thicker-skinned friends can nourish your health in a season that can bring some health challenges (think cold, flu and the unknown). Revered by ancient cultures, they’re packed with antioxidants, as well as boast anti-viral, anti-inflammatory, and anti-aging properties. And the sulfur, which provides their intense flavor, can fight illness.

2. PLA NT PROTEINS: BEA NS & LENTILS

3. OLI VE OIL A ND H E A LT H Y F A T S

Our cute-yet-mighty friend, the bean, concentrates protein, minerals, fiber, and complex starches (which are food for a healthy gut and flora). The protein from these legumes is a powerful healer for all tissues and muscles. Adding this perfect little package to your weekly meals strengthens immunity.

“First cold pressed extra virgin” olive oil is a result of pressing the pure and whole olive fruit right after harvest. This preserves the integrity, antioxidants, flavor, and healthy unoxidized fat (which your body needs). Drizzle on greens, along with lemon, and you absorb the fat-soluble vitamins, which protect your blood vessels and regulate inflammation.

JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C RYSTA L L A KE

SMOOTHIE BOWLS ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

LOCA LLY SOU R C E D | W ELLN E SS

Start your day with a nutritious and vitamin-packed breakfast. Smoothie bowls are a great way to add a variety of fruits and vegetables. Top with chia or flax seeds for an extra omega-3 boost, nuts or seeds for added protein, or sliced fruit for additional vitamins and fiber. Including a hint of turmeric or ginger can aid in digestion and has anti-inflammatory properties. Eating a variety of fruits and vegetables can aid in cellular repair and gut health, and smoothie bowls are a delicious way to incorporate more into your day. Try this simple recipe, or create your own combination to give your health a boost.

ShineSalon.Net

847.503.0000 - 103 S. 1st St., West Dundee 847.683.0000 - 11710 W. Coral St., Huntley

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Carrot Orange Bowl INGREDIENTS: • 1 orange or 2 clementines • ½ cup carrots • 1 cup frozen mangos • 1 cup frozen peaches • ½ banana • ½ cup vanilla yogurt • ½ teaspoon turmeric, ground • small pinch of pepper

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Blend all ingredients until smooth. Top with desired toppings. TOPPING SUGGESTIONS: • granola • sliced almonds • berries • ground flax seeds

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Crystal lake City lifestyle™ JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C RYSTA L L A KE

JANUARY 2024

events A S E L E C T I O N O F U P C O M I N G LO C A L E V E N T S

JA NUA RY 7 T H

McHenry County Cruise, Tour & Honeymoon Travel Show Holiday Inn Chicago NW Crystal Lake Convention Center | 11:00 AM Cary Travel Express presents this 26th annual travel show. This ONE-day event boasts over 35 Travel Suppliers. Take advantage of special offers available only at the show. Meet with travel Designers on-site for reservations. Doors are open 11:15am-3:00pm. Destination Seminars start at 11:30am. Find more details at: facebook.com/carytravelexpress JA NUA RY 1 8T H

A History of Blues Culture McHenry County College, Luecht Auditorium | 6:00 PM This lecture/live music presentation explores the role oppression played in the development of the blues, from slavery to Jim Crow laws and civil rights struggles. The spirituals, work songs, and slave songs are performed live with visual depictions. Plus, Delta Blues style, the migration North, and the development into Classic Blues. For tickets, visit: https://www.mchenry.edu/events/2024/01/experts-01-18.html JA NUA RY 2 6T H - 2 8T H

14th Annual LVVA Ice Fishing Derby Bang’s Lake, Wauconda It’s time for the ice fishing event of the year! The 2024 Derby, supporting veterans organizations and programs, has become one the largest and most successful ice fishing events in Northern Illinois. There are plenty of door prizes, raffles, and big fish contests. $25 to enter, under 14 are free. Learn more or register at: waucondaicefishingderby.com JA NUA RY 2 7 T H

Journeyman - a tribute to Eric Clapton Raue Center | 7:00 PM As the ONLY nationally touring Eric Clapton tribute band, this gifted group of musicians channel the spirit, passion and musicianship of Clapton himself and have been selling hundreds of tickets per night. With over 50 years of music to choose from, they cover it all. Member tickets: $24.50 - $31.50 Non-Members: $35 - $45. Reserve your seat at: events.rauecenter.org JA NUA RY 2 8T H

Kiwanis Freeze Fest Hickory Hall, Woodstock and Oak Streets, Crystal Lake | 10:00 AM Enjoy a frosty good time during this day filled with adventures, laughter, and fun. Whether you're a kid or a kid at heart, there's something for everyone at this winter extravaganza! All the best parts of a Midwestern winter and beyond - dog sledding, ice sculpting demonstrations, a hot chocolate bar, Frozen movies, and indoor games. Purchase tickets at: eventbrite.com/e/kiwanis-freeze-fest-tickets JA NUA RY 3 1 ST - F E BR UARY 4TH

29th annual Winterfest Flat Iron Park and Riviera Plaza, Lake Geneva | 1:00 PM As the only national snow sculpting championship in the United States, Winterfest welcomes the most talented and award-winning sculpting teams from across the country. The snow sculpting competition is FREE to attend. Also enjoy the Downtown Ice Sculpture Walk, bonfires on the beach and more family fun. For information, an official event program, activities schedule and more visit: visitlakegeneva.com/winterfest

EVE N TS

Clearbrook West enriches the lives of 250+ individuals in the McHenry County area impacted by intellectual and developmental disabilities. With eight locations in 39 communities, Clearbrook empowers those entrusted to them to live their fullest lives possible.

PERSONALIZED SERVICES

Residential

Employment

Clinical

Home-Based

Respite

Community Day

At Thayer Lynn Carpentry, family is at the heart of everything we do. We even decided to use our children’s middle names for the name of our company. Our experienced family of craftsmen and designers work together with commitment and enthusiasm to produce the quality work that your home deserves. You’ll enjoy years of creating family memories in your new outdoor space.

thayerlynn.com | 224.888.4088 | Crystal Lake, Illinois 60014

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YO U R D I G I TA L D E S T I N AT I O N FOR LOCAL LIVING

SHOP LOCAL JANUARY 2 0 2 4 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C RYSTA L L A KE

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.

10% OFF

YOUR NEXT PAINTING PROJECT OF $2,000 OR MORE* *Offer applies to your residential painting project of $2,000 or more. Must be presented at time of estimate. Not valid with other offers. Not valid on current estimates or proposals. Available at CertaPro Painters® of McHenry. Expires 2/28/24.

815-893-6388 certapro.com/mchenry Each CertaPro Painters® business is independently owned and operated.