Crystal Lake, IL April 2024

Investing in Your Future: Enriching Your Life Beyond Finances

The Many Variations of Investments

Investment, by definition, is the act of devoting time, effort, energy or finances to a particular undertaking with the expectation of a worthwhile result. We can invest in a lot of things such as our community, our relationships, our finances, and our health with the hope that the effort will have a positive impact. We can invest in our community by supporting local businesses, schools and organizations. We can serve the commu nity through volunteerism and investment in future generations. Investing financially may help create monetary wealth, meet long-term financial goals or secure our retirement.

On a personal level, we can invest in our families and enrich relationships by giving time and effort to the people in our lives that mean the most to us. This type of investment has the most meaningful impact to not only ourselves but to the people closest to us.

One of the things that I’m most proud of is the investment I’ve made into raising my three boys who are now grown men living their own lives.  It was always important to me to have an open dialog with my kids, reinforcing to them that they could talk to me regarding just about any subject.  Sure, there were times when topics were uncomfortable or difficult.  However, by keeping that line of communication flowing, I now enjoy the connection with each of my boys and the often lengthy, meaningful discussions about a wide variety of subjects. And as a result, I really feel that I’m a part of their lives.

While investing in ourselves, relationships, community and finances can look very different from person to person, the effort we put into these areas of our lives are done with the common goal of having a positive impact that yields results. This issue highlights a range of ways we can invest in various areas of our community and our personal lives.  May the payoff be fulfilling and rewarding on a multitude of levels.

Regards,

Steve

| steve.rogers@citylifestyle.com

Patti Noble | patti.noble@citylifestyle.com

Katie Bobrow | katie.bobrow@citylifestyle.com

Patricia Pfaller | patricia.pfaller@citylifestyle.com

Katie Bobrow

STEVE ROGERS, PUBLISHER @CRYSTALLAKECITYLIFESTYLE

city scene

1-7: Board members, staff, volunteers and guests at “Something to Talk About” - A night of music, mingling and more at The Vixen. Proceeds from the event benefit Senior Care Volunteer Network, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting senior community members living independently.

Photography by Jim Knobbe

Want to be seen in the magazine?

Rejuvenate, Refocus, Destress

Harmony Falls Massage Clinic and Spa recently celebrated a grand opening and ribbon cutting at their new location on Mchenry Avenue in Crystal Lake. The philosophy at Harmony Falls is that each person has the right to optimal health and wellness and therapeutic massage and bodywork are a vital component to each person’s wellness and healthcare plan. The goal is to provide opportunity for maximal health benefits designed for individual needs.  Learn more at: harmonyfallscl.com

business monthly

A Change in Name Only

TL Decks , formerly Thayer-Lynn, may have changed their name but their meticulous attention to detail remains. At DL Decks, finding that sweet spot, between wants and needs, to create the perfect outdoor space for their clients is their #1 goal. From screened-in porches to decks, entryways, or replacements, the focus is to maximize outdoor space while meeting individual needs. Whether composite or wood construction, there is an option to suit every desire. For more info: www.thayerlynn.com

Scan to read more

The Right Side of the Tracks

An eclectic Restaurant/ Cafe/ Bar, Crystal Lake Junction, has joined the downtown scene. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner as well late night bites, the Junction provides a pleasant local scene with an eclectic and diverse menu, cool drinks, and friendly service in a relaxed atmosphere. From weekend brunch to date night milkshakes, there is something for everyone. And the welcoming patio awaits as the warmer weather is just around the corner. Check out: crystallakejunction.net

INVEST IN YOURSELF

6 Simple Things Anyone Can Do For a Better Future

ARTICLE BY KATIE BOBROW

We all have that one thing we wish to change about ourselves. Whether it’s a vice that impacts our health or a minor annoyance, a habit can take as little as 21 days to make OR break, so commit to changing one thing that bothers you this month and witness the positive shift in your life.

Tidy up your living space, and watch your mental space follow suit. Focus on one area each week, starting with an area you spend the most time. Free yourself from unnecessary possessions and experience how much lighter you feel in your physical space and your mind.

Is there an old friend you’ve been missing? In the midst of life’s hustle, relationships sometimes take a back seat. Take a moment this month to reach out – a call, a letter, or a simple text can reignite connections and do positive things for our emotional well-being.

1. SMASH A BAD HABIT

2. CLEAR THE CLUTTER, CLEAR THE MIND

3. REDISCOVER CONNECTIONS 1 2

3

Cultivate personal growth with a solo hobby. Start slow if you don’t already have a hobby. Try a walk around the block while listening to a podcast, gardening in your yard, trying a new recipe in the kitchen, or picking up a camera. Whatever it is, invest time in activities that offer rich returns.

Dive into the joy of lifelong learning, whether it’s a captivating book on a new subject or a community college class. No knowledge is too trivial, and every bit broadens your horizons. Invest time in learning, and watch your intellectual wealth grow.

Your well-being is the ultimate investment, however, making health related decisions can sometimes feel overwhelming, so tackle it step by step – schedule that overdue doctor’s appointment, commit to increasing your daily steps, or make a healthy choice for one meal a day. Whether big or small, each health-focused decision is a valuable deposit into your future.

5. NURTURE A SOLO HOBBY

6. PRIORITIZE HEALTH

4. EMBRACE CONTINUOUS LEARNING 5

6

Unlocking Secrets to Maximize Your Auto Investment

INSIGHT TO EXTEND THE LIFE OF YOUR CAR FOR MAXIMUM MILAGE

NAVIGATING AUTOMOBILE CARE:

Rev up your financial know-how! Cars are a massive investment and a large source of stress for consumers. Coming in at the third-largest debt category, trailing only mortgages and coming in just under student loans, auto loans have parked themselves at a whopping $1.595 trillion, according to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York. Beyond the sticker price, the relentless drain of gas, insurance, registration, and maintenance turns our fourwheeled investments into a bottomless money pit. We caught up with Ty Bentley, ASE Certified Service Advisor, and operating partner at Douglas Automotive. We quizzed him on all things auto, and the insights he shared will help you feel more confident in the care of your automobile. Whether you're on the hunt for a new ride or determined to squeeze every last mile out of your current one, we uncovered the keys to maximizing your investment.

DISCUSSING FUEL EFFICIENCY

IS IT TRUE THAT ALLOWING THE FUEL LEVEL ON YOUR CAR TO RUN CONSISTENTLY LOW IS BAD?

With fuel prices hitting the roof recently, it's tempting to put off refueling for another day or two and run that baby into the ground. But of all the car myths going around, this one is true and

ARTICLE BY KATIE BOBROW

should be taken seriously. If your car is running (very low) constantly this can have a detrimental impact on your car's engine, as gunk and sediment that builds up at the bottom of your fuel tank gets sucked up at the very end. Remember fuel economy can only work properly if you actually have some fuel in the tank! Try to not let your tank run consistently less than a quarter of a tank and you should be fine.

T OR F - YOU SHOULD TOP OFF YOUR GAS AFTER THE PUMP SHUTS OFF

False! Your gas needs room to expand inside your gas tank. When you top off your gas, you leave little or no room for gas to expand, causing the gas to collect in the vapor collection system of your car. If the system fails to function properly, your car can have high gas emissions as a result. Topping off your gas tank can also cause various amounts of pressure to build in your car's gas tank, which can lead to flooding the carbon filter vapor collection system, which is only meant for vapor. This is no joke - and we have seen many cars at the shop with bad vapor canisters because people top off their gas tank.

IS IT GOOD FOR THE ENGINE TO TAKE LONG ROAD TRIPS?

Yes, your car's engine will indeed thank you for taking it on a long road trip here and there. The reason for this is simple: longer drives give the engine the chance to burn off any unwanted fuels or water particles in the oil. More generally, a long drive gives your car's engine a thorough workout at proper temperatures - making sure all the moving parts are working healthily.

WHICH IS MORE FUEL EFFICIENT, MANUAL OR AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS?

The way automatic cars are made these days have eliminated the truth that they are less fuel-efficient than manual cars. Thanks to advancements in technology automatic cars of today have more forward gears than cars with manual transmission. This helps in a balanced fuel economy in both versions. The extra gears can help with creating more power at lower engine speed and this saves fuel and creates balance.

WE’VE ALL HEARD THE MYTH

THAT AIR CONDITIONING IS MORE FUEL EFFICIENT THAN OPENING WINDOWS, IS THIS TRUE?

This is false. The myth here is that air conditioning is better than rolled down windows because rolled down windows hurts fuel economy more due to drag. This probably sounds nice for people who enjoy A/C, but air conditioning does use up more gas than rolled down windows. However, if you're absolutely miserable in your car due to heat, we'd still recommend using your A/C to keep comfortable and alert.

DISCUSSING MAINTENANCE

DO I REALLY NEED TO FLUSH MY COOLANT

Yes, coolant flushes remove rust and scale deposits from the reservoir. It's important to get rid of these deposits because any type of build-up can cause clogs and render the coolant less efficient, which results in overheating and damage to your entire cooling system. Flushing your coolant prevents water from boiling during the summer, water from freezing during the winter, metal parts from rust and corrosion, plastic parts from becoming brittle, and prevents overheating during operation. Short answer is, flush your coolant!

HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE A GOOD BATTERY TO DIE WHEN NOT DRIVING?

The battery in your car can die within as little as two weeks when unused. But why does this happen? While our cars are more technologically advanced than ever, this comes at a cost. Due to the various gadgets and computer technology manufacturers include in our vehicles, the newest models coming off the line are always on, continually monitoring the car's systems around the clock. Where does the power come from to do this? Your car's battery. When the car isn't regularly being used, the battery doesn't have a chance to recharge, leading to a dead battery. Make sure to drive your car at least short distances once a week, this should avoid any potential problems with the battery.

T OR F - YOU SHOULD NEVER SERVICE YOUR TRANSMISSION FLUID BECAUSE IT WILL BREAK YOUR TRANSMISSION.

False! Often, when someone asks about having their car's transmission serviced, a novice may relish the opportunity to give feedback: "You don't want to service your transmission; that'll ruin it!" Let's get one thing out of the way up front: A transmission service, performed properly by a qualified technician, will never damage an automatic transmission. Not ever. So why do so many people think there's some type of cause-and-effect relationship between a transmission flush and the transmission failing?

Because the two often seem to occur at about the same time. That's because far too many car owners only consider having

their transmission serviced after they've noticed a problem with the way it's performing. The transmission is already damaged, so they're hoping to "fix" the problem with a transmission service. That's not to suggest that a transmission service can't ever save a transmission that's beginning to exhibit performance problems. Sometimes it can, it depends on what's causing the problem.

DO YOU HAVE TO HAVE YOUR VEHICLE SERVICED AT A DEALER TO UPHOLD YOUR WARRANTY?

This is false. If the service meets manufacturer standards, your warranty should remain intact regardless of where you take your vehicle for service. Always check that the service being provided is up to manufacture’s standards and you should be good to go!

ACCORDING

FYI - TOP SELLING CARS IN 2023

TO CAR AND DRIVER

1. Ford F-Series (750,789 units sold)

2. Chevy Silverado (543,319 units sold)

3. Ram Pickup (444,926 units sold)

4. Toyota RAV4 (434,943 units sold)

5. Tesla Model Y (385,900 units sold, estimated)

6. Honda CR-V (361,457 units sold)

7. GMC Sierra (295,737 units sold).

8. Toyota Camry (290,649 units sold)

9. Nissan Rogue (271,458 units sold)

10. Jeep Grand Cherokee (244,595 units sold)

NOURISHMENT FOR A thriving FUTURE

ARTICLE BY KLAUDIA BURIAN, NBC-HWC

DIVERSIFYING - NOT JUST FOR YOUR PORTFOLIO. SMALL DAILY ACTS CAN HAVE A BIG IMPACT ON HEALTH.

There is no shortage of information on healthy lifestyle interventions and quick fixes. But there's a lot of space between the information and what makes sense for each individual person in their unique landscape. And sometimes, it can feel so big. A good financial investment strategy builds slowly over time and the same approach holds true when it comes to your health. Small adjustments and skills you build over time, add up to big payoffs and exponential growth in a healthy and thriving future.

Nature is talking: As we joyfully roll into spring, and the winter layers peel away, we can feel a shift in our approach. Spring is a wonderful time to focus on whole foods, and little by little, crowd out some of the heavier and more processed meals with fresh produce. This small step can shift the needle in the direction of a healthier body and mind. The air feels lighter, we feel more called to move into the warmer sweet air, and we notice subtle cues from the trees and flowers that it’s time to pay attention to new growth and possibility.

Be like the rabbit:   Nature really knows best. After a winter of heavy meals, grazing on POWERFUL little greens is SO cleansing to the liver and entire digestive system. They are loaded with water and fiber, which is great for moving things along, and super easy on digestion (great for active days when bloat is not invited). Local little strawberries are making their appearance, and draw the eye to signal 'Hey! I have what you need!' Plump berries and sweet crunchy peas are SUPER HYDRATING. As the days get longer and warmer, we lose more water...and quicker (BOO). EATING your water is very effective! Strawberries are over 90% water, and whole foods digest a little slower, to keep some water in reserve as you go about your awesome day. When it comes to your health and wellness, the invitation this spring is to spend some time reflecting on how to best cultivate the garden within. What is one small step one can take today, to make a small shift in the direction of vibrant health?

Budgeting your resources: Taking some time to explore local farms and eating in season can be a powerful ally when it comes to making choices with our dollar. Organic and locally grown produce offers the highest level of nutrition without the unfortunate addition of pesticide residue. The Environmental Working Group offers a pocket guide outlining which produce is important to source organically, and which fruits and veggies are safer options to source conventionally with the lowest levels of pesticides. You can download this pocket guide to keep handy when gathering your nourishment at the market.

ewg.org/foodnews/dirty-dozen.php

Fresh spring greens shine their subtle sweetness with the simplest of dressings.  Enjoy this easy blend over any combination of young lettuces.  The olive oil helps to absorb all the fat soluble vitamins from the lettuce.

A SIMPLE DRESSING

ingredients:

• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice (two lemons)

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

• 1 tbsp. honey or maple syrup

• Salt and pepper to taste

directions:

1. With a whisk, combine ingredients to drizzle over the fresh, plated greens

2. Top with fresh berries, nuts or seeds. chopped or torn fresh herbs and some beans or other protein such as salmon, chicken or hard boiled egg.

3. Keep in the fridge for up to 1 week.

Why parsley you may ask? It is so much more than just a pretty face, decorating platters and plates in every restaurant and on every holiday platter.

Parsley is a mother herb (supports whatever is needed in the body), prolific this time of year, and loved for its healing and culinary diversity. It is loaded with antioxidants, vitamins A, C, K, and folate. These key nutrients in the human body translate to powerful spring energy.

And who doesn’t want that. When kept raw, or added at the end of cooking, the delightful fresh flavor and all of the vitamin and mineral content are kept in place.

PARSLEY PESTO

ingredients:

• 1 large clove of garlic, chopped

• A nice bunch of fresh parsley (stems removed)

• 1/4 cup favorite nut

• Salt and pepper to taste (just a sprinkle)

• 1/2 cup good extra virgin olive oil

• 1/2 cup quality parmesan cheese

directions:

1. Blend all the ingredients in a food processor until smooth.

2. Add more olive oil to achieve a creamy consistency (think chunky peanut butter)

3. Serve tossed with pasta or on top of your favorite grilled protein. The fresh punch of flavor is perfect with fish.

4.  Invite friends, love and feed them. Then go play in the sunshine.

BUILDING BRIDGES

ARTICLE BY PATTI NOBLE

in•de•pen•dent: not requiring or relying on others (as for care or livelihood). While it is human nature to desire connection, it is also an inherent inclination to seek self-sufficiency.  The concept of independence is subject to each person’s individual interpretation.

Clearbrook West fosters autonomy through collaboration and understanding individuals at their current state

Emily Fencl, Vice President of Program Services and Erin Schjerven, Marketing Manager, of Clearbrook West, know all too well the importance of meeting an individual where they are along the continuum to autonomy.  They believe everyone deserves the opportunity to live in the least restrictive environment that meets their needs and abilities.

In fact, that is the mission of Clearbrook West (a division of Clearbrook), a non-profit organization dedicated to "enriching lives and embracing the potential of every human."  Their goal is to empower adults and children with intellectual or developmental disabilities to live their fullest lives possible.  Clearbrook West serves individuals with varying ages and disabilities - from children diagnosed with development delays at birth to the unique needs of seniors with disabilities and all ages in between.

Whether in group homes, day programs or receiving services in their own home, individuals receive personalized care and guidance to attain their goals.  One person may want to obtain a job and earn money to have some financial freedom, while another may want to be able to stay home alone and prepare meals or take their own medicine without assistance.  The objective is to identify the need and desired outcome. Then, offer choices and collaborate with other agencies in McHenry County to identify the best fit for each person.

Take, for example, the young man who works as a dish washer at Cooper’s Hawk.  When he first suggested this to his mom, she resisted, feeling he should set his sights higher.  But what this young man wanted was to earn money of his own, feel he was participating, and contribute to society.  With the help of Clearbrook West staff and counselors, his mother was able to see the benefits of him

“Everyone deserves the opportunity to live in the least restrictive environment that meets their needs and abilities.”

learning to advocate for himself.  Today, he is proud of his occupation and has connected with the chef who has taken him under his wing and is teaching him new skills in the kitchen.

When an elderly man living in a small group home faced the possibility of relocation to a state facility because he could no longer climb the stairs to his second-floor bedroom and his bathroom was not safe for his evolving needs, staff worked to obtain grants and support to remodel; an effort to nurture his self-reliance for as long as possible.

The collaboration with other organizations such as Miss Amazing, a program that focuses

on self esteem and equal opportunities, exemplifies how Clearbrook West truly invests in the community.  A local young woman earned the opportunity to showcase her gymnastics and choreography skills on a national platform in Nashville. She has since encouraged friends to join in and share their uniqueness with the world.

Regardless of ability or stage of development, we each deserve to live our authentic lives.  While some individuals may uncover their true selves independently, others may need additional support along their journey. For many, Clearbrook West is the bridge to independence.

THE COMMUNITY

A Puppy Named Kiley

ARTICLE BY CINDY WIGDAHL

HOW AN ANIMAL SHELTER IS INVESTING IN

The story of Animal House Shelter (AHS) began in the summer of 1996. Lesley Irwin got a call about a dog who was just thrown out of a car on Lake-Cook Road, dodging cars in the Barrington area. Lesley was home on break from the University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign, where she was an Animal Science major.

The little puppy, a six-month-old female American Staffordshire Terrier who was soon named Kiley, changed everything. Irwin, who grew up in a family filled with rescue dogs, horses, cats and even wildlife, never had a pet as special as Kiley. After summer break, Irwin headed back to campus with Kiley in tow.

Over time, Kiley helped open Irwin’s eyes to a new career path leading to the launch of AHS: a nonprofit, no-kill animal shelter for all breeds of dogs and cats. The first few years the rescue was run from her childhood home. As the shelter grew a new home was sought with Huntley being the ideal location for its next phase.

After more than 21 years as a caring place for rescued animals, the shelter is now investing in their community and the lives of the animals they care for, with an

expansion project to help rescue and preserve more animals in need. All operating (and construction) funds are raised from private donations.

The expansion will include an on-site veterinary clinic, not only for residents but for other animals in the community. Currently, veterinary care is outsourced, depleting vital AHS resources needed elsewhere. Every aspect of the expansion better enables AHS to continue with animal rescue and serving the community.

“When we began our mission, Kiley helped us in so many ways,” Irwin said. “Because her temperament was so amazing, she was a natural to help us determine if an animal was dog friendly. She also mothered several orphaned puppies throughout the years as well. Kiley sadly passed in 2008. Because she was such a special soul who impacted my life in ways I can’t fully explain, AHS has now rescued, rehabilitated and found forever homes for over 65,000 dogs and cats to date.”

Cindy Wigdahl manages fundraising and events for Animal House Shelter. Visit AnimalHouseShelter.com to learn more about the organization and its capital campaign to expand its facility and enhance services.

APRIL 2024

events

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

APRIL 5TH

Wine Tasting: Flavors and Red Blends

McHenry County College, Scot Room, B178 | 6:00 PM

Join restaurateur, wine connoisseur, and sommelier Andy Andresky and immerse yourself in the heady aromas and taste sensations of three reds and a white. Epicurean delights will further enhance the experience.  Learn the chemistry behind flavor, tannins, pH, fermentation, aging, and grape varietals.  Then, blend your own unique vintage to bring to the Connoisseur’s Table for judging. Register at:  www.mchenry.edu/events

APRIL 14TH

1858, Once Upon a Tea

Colonel Palmer House, 660 E. Terra Cotta, Crystal Lake | 12:30 PM

At this family-friendly event, you will enjoy several different teas, sandwiches and desserts as you spend a relaxing afternoon at the historic Colonel Palmer House.   Sip warm brews and learn about popular tea topics of 1858.  Presented by the Crystal Lake Park District. Ages 7 & Up.  $30/Resident, $39/Non-Resident.  For tickets, visit:  crystallakeparks.org/special-events

APRIL 18TH

Ladies' Night Out

Downtown Crystal Lake | 5:00 PM

Gather your friends and spend an evening shopping local.  Ladies' Night Out features special deals, treats, sips and more at participating businesses.  Stop by the tent on Brink and Williams Street s to pick up a map and decide where you want to go first.  Then, indulge in dinner or drinks at one of the downtown establishments.  Lean more at:  www.downtowncl.org

APRIL 20TH

Earth Day Race

Veteran Acres main parking lot, Crystal Lake | 8:00 AM

Celebrate Earth Day by running through the woods, Whether you're training for an Ultra or just want to challenge yourself, join Ornery Mule Racing for the 12th Annual Earth Day 50k/15-mile/5-mile Race through Veteran Acres and Sternes Woods in Crystal Lake.  The beautiful 5.2 miles loop course runs through single track, rolling hills. For details and registration, visit: earthdaytrailrace.com

APRIL 25TH

Couture for a Cause

Boulder Ridge Country Club, LITH | 6:00 PM

The Service League of Crystal Lake's annual fashion show will feature the latest styles from many local retailers, modeled by members of the community.  Enjoy amazing food & drinks, raffle prizes, and more. Proceeds will support Service League's mission "To provide discreet, direct, shortterm assistance to residents in our community who need immediate aid."  For more information or tickets, visit: slcrystallake.org/fashion-show

APRIL 26TH

Family Health Partnership's Spring Soiree

Main Beach Pavillion, Crystal Lake | 5:30 PM

Enjoy an evening of cocktails, hearty hors d'oeuvres, stellar conversation with other Clinic supporters, enchanting silent auctions and more!  Attire is "Spring Cocktail Party Casual".  $50 per person. All proceeds benefit FHPC's mission to provide high quality health care to the uninsured women and men of our community with dignity, compassion and respect. Learn more and purchase tickets at: hpclinic.org/news-events