patrick.oconnor@ampf.com ameripriseadvisors.com/ patrick.oconnor
Summer’s Sweetest Companions
Dear Readers,
August always feels like summer’s warm embrace—a month of playful moments, late sunsets, and family memories that last a lifetime. And what better way to celebrate this special time than by shining a spotlight on two of life’s greatest joys: kids and pets.
In this month’s issue, we cover everything from choosing the perfect family dog to match your lifestyle, to understanding why families with kids should consider insurance. We also highlight a local spot where your children and pets can happily spend hours together, as well as creative, kid-friendly food ideas that are sure to delight.
What stands out most to me about this issue is the reminder of how kids and pets alike bring out the best in us: patience, laughter, and unconditional love. They teach us to slow down, to see the world through fresh eyes, and to treasure the simple moments—a walk around the block, an afternoon at the lake, or the joy of a new discovery.
As you turn these pages, I hope you feel the warmth and community that makes our town so special. Thank you, as always, for welcoming us into your home and heart each month. Here’s to a season filled with wagging tails, muddy paws, giggles, and sun-soaked memories.
Sincerely,
STEVE ROGERS, PUBLISHER
@CRYSTALLAKECITYLIFESTYLE
Discover Crystal Lake City Lifestyle in the towns of Crystal Lake, Village of Lakewood, Prairie Grove, and Huntley.
August 2025
PUBLISHER
Steve Rogers | steve.rogers@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Patti Noble | patti.noble@citylifestyle.com
STAFF WRITER
Katie Bobrow | katie.bobrow@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Jamie Kayser, Klaudia Burian
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
David Bradburn, Sharmila Taylor
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
From
Lessons
Explore
AUGUST 2025
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Decked out at Clearbrook’s Shining Star Ball which was held at the Four Seasons Hotel. 2—4: Celebrating The Salvation Army National Donut Day, delivering donuts to first responders, to commemorate the work of the Donut Lassies who provided soldiers with supplies, clothing, and, most importantly, sweet treats beginning during WWI. 5—6: Teeing it up at the 4th annual McHenry County Sherrif Robb Tadelman Golf Outing fundraiser held at the Golf Club of Illinois. 7: Celebrating Service League of Crystal Lake’s 100 year anniversary at a Ravinia style evening on the lawn of the Dole Mansion.
RYLEIGH TADELMAN
RYLEIGH TADELMAN
SHARMILA TAYLOR PHOTOGRAPHY
6703 Colonel Holcomb Dr
Ln
Colonel Holcomb Dr
Real Estate Report
Recently Sold Properties in the Crystal Lake Area
5/28/2025
5/2/2025
6/6/2025 4/4/2025
6/10/2025
6/18/2025
5/27/2025
6/4/2025
6/27/2025
5/23/2025 5/16/2025
4/28/2025 5/5/2025
6/18/2025 6/16/2025
5/1/2025 6/9/2025 6/4/2025
8—9: Celebrating Service League of Crystal Lake’s 100 year anniversary at a Ravinia style evening on the lawn of the Dole Mansion. 10: Crystal Lake Chamber board members celebrate our publisher Steve Rogers with the “Pride in Crystal Lake Award” 11: Leadership Greater McHenry County alumni showed up to honor fellow alum, Steve Rogers 12: This crew had the best time at Downtown Crystal Lake’s inaugural wine walk. 13: Out for sips and nibbles at 13 local businesses at the Midsummer Wine Walk downtown. 14: Congratulations to the Midsummer Wine Walk committee on a successful wine walk. Cheers!
SHARMILA TAYLOR PHOTOGRAPHY
SHARMILA TAYLOR PHOTOGRAPHY
KATIE SINDE
KATIE SINDE
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From everyday mishaps to life’s biggest challenges, the right coverage––from home and auto to liability and life––can safeguard your family’s future
INSURE YOUR PEACE OF MIND
It usually starts as an ordinary day. One moment you’re sipping coffee and packing lunches. The next, your teen calls from the school parking lot with a dented bumper or tells you they accidentally backed into a mailbox after dropping off their friend. Maybe after a summer storm you discover a leak in the ceiling right before guests arrive. Life has a way of throwing curveballs that aren’t always joyful, especially when you’re juggling family, career, and a home full of memories. That’s why having the right insurance protection isn’t just smart–it’s one of the most caring ways to show up for the people you love most, especially when things don’t go as planned. We recently chatted with Ted Orzehoskie, a local State Farm agent with over 20 years of experience helping families in our community and beyond, who shared his insights on why an insurance protection plan—whether for your car, home, health, or future—can offer peace of mind and real security when it matters most.
After graduating college with an Applied Computer Science degree, he found his way to State Farm Insurance, not as an agent but as a programmer. From there he went on to own three computer reseller franchises. That experience taught him about owning a business, managing employees, and listening to the needs of his clients. All skills that have served him well as he has grown his agency––the last 15 years in Crystal Lake––to include eight fully licensed agents in addition to himself.
When we sat down with Ted, it was immediately apparent that he not only loves what he does but truly wants to support people in taking care of themselves, their loved ones, and their assets in the event of emergency and life altering events. He spoke about insurance as a form of care and preparation, not just protection. He shared stories of clients who found comfort in knowing their families would be supported during times of unexpected loss and grief.
Ted pointed out that coverage goes beyond the ‘usual suspects’. “Most people understand the need for health and auto insurance,” he said, “but many overlook things like liability insurance—or whether their coverage truly fits their lifestyle.” We tend to avoid thinking about worst-case scenarios because they’re overwhelming—but Ted sees his role as helping families
navigate those fears by breaking things down into simple, understandable terms.
A common misconception about life insurance, for example, is that it’s only necessary for the primary earner. “Even if you're a stay-at-home parent, your role carries incredible value,” Ted explained. “Imagine the financial strain of replacing everything you do — childcare, household management, emotional support. Coverage isn’t about income, it’s about impact.”
As Ted gently reminds us, while no one wants to imagine the worst, it’s often in the “what-ifs” that real love and responsibility show up. “There are five events that can change everything in a moment” he explained. “A major car accident, a serious illness, a house fire, an unexpected death, or being held responsible for someone else’s hardship.” As a father of three—one son and two daughters—Ted doesn’t just talk about protecting families—he lives it. “When I think about coverage, I think about my own kids,” he shared. “It’s not about fear, it’s about making sure that, no matter what happens, they’re taken care of.”
That’s where the right coverage becomes more than just a policy—it becomes a promise. A promise that when life takes an unexpected turn, your family has a safety net to land on.
Imagine this: a distracted driver runs a red light, and your car is totaled. Or a routine checkup turns into a serious diagnosis. Maybe it’s a kitchen fire that spreads too fast, or a sudden loss that leaves your family reeling. Sometimes, it’s not even your crisis—it’s someone else’s injury or accident, and suddenly you’re the one being held responsible. These aren’t pleasant scenarios to think about, but they’re the very moments when having the right protection in place means everything.
That’s where different types of coverage are designed to meet your family at various points of need. Auto coverage helps you recover from that car accident, so one moment doesn’t derail your everyday life. Health insurance ensures you’re not choosing between care and cost when illness strikes. Home insurance can be the difference between heartbreak and rebuilding when
disaster hits. Life insurance provides peace of mind that your loved ones will be cared for, even in your absence. And liability coverage? That’s the one most people overlook—but it protects you financially if someone else’s crisis becomes your responsibility.
Each type of coverage plays a role in safeguarding what matters most—your people, your peace, and your plans. It’s not just about policies on paper; it’s about the comfort of knowing that, come what may, your family has a safety net.
At the end of the day, protecting your family is about more than policies — it’s about peace of mind. Insurance isn’t about expecting the worst. As Ted puts it, “It’s about loving your family enough to be ready––just in case, and honoring the role each person plays in your family’s life — making sure they are protected no matter what. You can’t predict the future, but you can prepare for it.”
Finding the Right Family Dog
Lessons We Learned and Expert Advice
We thought we wre ready. Years ago, we adopted a one-year-old mix from a shelter, part German Shepherd, part mystery, and in hindsight, not the right match for our family with two young children. We knew it would take work, and we were up for the challenge. We loved him and tried everything: vet checks, hiring a trainer, consulting with others, and careful consistency at home. Despite our efforts, things didn't click. He snapped at both our kids and eventually, in a terrifying moment, he nipped at our oldest. After talking with the shelter, we made the heartbreaking decision to return him so he could find a home without children, and one that was better suited to his needs.
We were not first-time dog owners, we'd even owned a German Shepherd mix before, and considered ourselves capable pet owners. However, this experience taught us that love and effort alone aren’t enough if the match isn’t right for both the dog and the family. It was an important, painful lesson to learn.
ARTICLE BY KATIE BOBROW PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHARMILA TAYLOR
A year later, when we were ready to try again, we approached things differently. This time, we found a puppy through foster care, giving us the opportunity to meet her in a natural environment, learn about her personality from the foster, and ensure that our children were comfortable. As an avid runner, I made personal sacrifices in what I wanted in a dog, giving up athleticism and independence in exchange for a dog who loves children, enjoys affection, and fits seamlessly into our family. We found the perfect family dog, and to set everyone up for success, we immediately contacted Kim RyanMueller, owner of Quality Canines by Kim, whose expertise was invaluable in ensuring we raised a well-rounded, socialized, and happy dog.
With many families considering adding a dog to their home, I reached out to Kim to share her insights to help others avoid the heartbreak we experienced.
Kim emphasizes that the decision to adopt a dog or puppy should always take into consideration the ages of your children, your lifestyle, and your family’s current capacity to take on the responsibilities of dog ownership. “Getting a puppy or dog is an investment of time, money, and responsibility,” she says. “Some families are ready for the challenges, while others may feel overwhelmed.”
One practical tip she offers is to observe your children’s interest in dogs, whether it’s your family’s dog or a neighbor’s. This can give insight into how they might adjust to having a puppy at home and influence which type of dog or puppy that is right for your family.
When it comes to breed selection, it’s essential to match the breed’s needs with your family’s lifestyle. If you’re an indoors-focused family, a laid-back, low-energy pup may be best. On the other hand, if you love hiking, parks, and outdoor adventures, your options expand to breeds that will enjoy and thrive with an active lifestyle.
Kim warns against adopting high-drive breeds like Border Collies or Malinois unless you’re prepared to meet their intense mental and physical needs, noting that “each breed was meant for a job, and if we don’t fulfill or supplement that need, the pup can become frustrated and develop bad behaviors out of boredom.”
Another key consideration is whether to adopt a puppy or an adult dog from a shelter or go through a breeder. Kim encourages families to consider rescue, noting it can be a wonderful choice, but she also acknowledges the concerns families may have about bad habits or unknown behavioral issues. If you choose a puppy from a breeder, she advises selecting one who performs temperament testing to help match the puppy’s personality to your family.
Other factors to keep in mind: Puppies come with sharp baby teeth, sleepless nights, and the need for
consistent potty training, while adult dogs often skip these stages but may require extra socialization and training, particularly if they’ve been in a shelter environment. We can personally attest to both of these scenarios, while our first shelter dog was one-year-old and a breeze in the chewing and potty department, he obviously struggled adjusting to life in a home with children. A perfect example of choosing your problem.
No matter what route you choose, preparation is key. Kim recommends setting up a designated potty spot, using safe toys (ones that pose no choking risk) and crates, and establishing a consistent routine to help your new dog feel secure while involving your children in the process. “Structure helps kids take charge and learn responsibility while building a bond with the dog,” Kim says. “It’s important for children to learn that a dog isn’t just a play toy, but a living being with feelings and needs.”
Training, Kim notes, is critical from the start. Dogs typically spend the first three weeks in a new home “people-watching” to ensure they are safe and loved before they show their true personalities and begin testing boundaries. This period is an ideal time to establish house rules, teach them how to alert you for potty needs, and build a foundation of trust and communication.
“Miscommunication is the number one reason people re-home their dogs,” Kim shares. “The dog doesn’t understand what the family wants, and the family doesn’t know how to help the dog understand. Training helps bridge that gap, ensuring a happier life for everyone.”
Looking back, while it was painful to return our first dog, it was the right decision for him and for our family. Our second experience, guided by intentional choices and Kim’s expertise, led to a dog who truly completes our family.
If you’re considering adding a dog to your family, take your time, do your research, and prepare your home and your hearts for the responsibilities ahead. When the right match is made, a dog can enrich your family’s life in ways you never imagined. Owning the right dog creates memories, teaches responsibility and empathy, and becomes a beloved part of your family’s story.
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FUN TIMES “FUR” ALL
at Lippold
Explore what the gem of Crystal Lake has to offer you and your whole family!
ARTICLE BY JAMIE KAYSER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY VARIOUS
Photo Credit: David Bradburn
What looks like a sports complex at first glance, is actually a hub of activity with layers of outdoor discovery. Tucked just off Route 176 in Crystal Lake, Lippold Park is more than a sports destination—it’s a local treasure. Known for its sprawling baseball, soccer, and football fields, it has even more to offer than what first meets the eye. Whether you're cheering from the sidelines, teeing it up at the driving range or mini golf, wandering scenic trails, or practicing your half-pipe skills, Lippold offers something for everyone.
With over a century of Park District history behind it, Lippold Park stands as a testament to the area's commitment to recreation, nature, and community connection. The park hosts batting cages, multiple athletic fields, a skate park, fishing, and over 300 acres of nature. Whether you're out for a jog or a gentle wander, more than five miles of crushed stone paths invite you to slow down and soak in the serenity of nature. As Claire Naughton, the Manager of Recreation Facilities at the Crystal Lake Park District (CLPD), shared “The paths are also used for several 5k races and walks throughout the year.”
Lippold Park itself was named after the family who originally farmed the land, particularly Harold L. Lippold, President of the Park District from 1966-1968. According to the CLPD, this past year alone over 30,000 athletes, residents, and spectators visited Lippold Park, as it is home to Crystal Lake Little League, Babe Ruth Baseball, MCYSA World Series, The Soccer Federation, CL Raiders Football, and most recently, the Crystal Lake Youth Lacrosse League. This multifaceted “gem” has so many unique and renovated areas within it, it’s sure to please the whole family–including your 4-legged family members!
How can one location be so popular? Well, besides having dozens of sporting fields/courts, Lippold has amazingly fun and affordable activities for nearly everyone. To start, the family-friendly Mini Golf features two exciting and challenging courses with 18 holes each. Near these courses, you can brush up on your golf skills at the driving range–which offers lessons as well.
Photo Credit: Jamie Kayser
Photo Credit: Sharmila
Taylor Photography
Disc-Golf (played with frisbees and baskets), was introduced to Lippold in 1992 and revamped in 2008 with the assistance of the Crystal Lake Park Foundation. Claire shared with us that recent upgrades, such as new baskets and signage, have improved this course even further. Whether you are a serious competitor or just out for a leisurely game, it’s fun for all ages.
Relax and enjoy a sip and nibble at one of the five picnic pavilions located throughout the complex. For our canine pals, possibly the most important aspect of Lippold Park is the Hound Town Dog Park, a fenced, multi-acre space. Your furry friends can enjoy running, playing, socializing, and hanging out with the whole family here, year-round, sunrise to sunset. Now, the ‘dog days of summer’ will be a thing of the past because your furry friends can join in on the fun, too! Registration and fees apply so make sure to check that out before heading over to the dog park.
Brimming with opportunity, Lippold Park continues to be a local landmark with a variety of free and affordable activities for every age, interest, and season. From sunrise hikes to under-the-lights sporting events, Lippold Park invites us all to simply enjoy the beauty of the outdoors. See you there!
These are just some of the exciting things to enjoy, the list of amenities goes on! For more information on Lippold Park, visit their website: crystallakeparks.org/lippold-park . To support the Crystal Lake Parks Initiative Foundation, register for the “Glow-in-the-Dark Mini Golf Fundraiser” held on Saturday, September 6th. Adult teams can sign-up here: eventbrite.com/saturday-night-lights-mini-golf-tickets-1287477021429
Photo Credit: Jamie Kayser
Photo Credit: David Bradburn
Photo Credit: Sharmila Taylor Photograpy
Comfort Outside, No Compromises
More Time to Play!
KIDDO FRIENDLY CREATIONS
Adding new foods to familiar favorites is a crafty way to help kids explore new flavors
Growing up in today’s food culture presents a unique set of bumps in the road and also offers opportunities for families looking to include nutritious meals, stay on budget, and actually find something everyone will agree on. If the goal is to shift towards a more nutritious way of eating, or spend more time enjoying easy meals together as a family, adding and crowding out (rather than replacing with more variety) offers
a little something for everyone, and allows the less adventurous eaters an opportunity to get curious. Sometimes being a picky eater has to do with much more than flavor. Often there can be some preference with textures as well. Being patient and offering new ingredients that can be added to familiar favorites, can be a wonderful way to invite everyone at the table to make their meal just how they like it.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY
KLAUDIA BURIAN
Even if the kiddos don’t jump on board right away, modeling for them is a wonderful way to create some curiosity. Kids learn what they see as much as what they’re told (actually more). This month, we take a couple of favorites, ramen noodles and fruit salad, and create a fun exploration of flavors and textures for everyone––beyond just noodles and broth, or simple watermelon. The combinations here are endless, and involving all the voices around the table can open a world of new flavors for everyone to try.
CHOOSE YOUR ADVENTURE RAMEN
This easy recipe is ready in about 20 minutes and each ingredient is served in its own cute container to make it fun to explore.
SERVES
4 people
Ingredients:
• 2 pkgs favorite ramen
• 3 cups bone broth
• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
• 8 boiled eggs
• 4 cups baby greens
• 1 large onion chopped
• 1 scallion, chopped
• Miso (optional)
• Mushrooms, chopped
• Carrots, sliced thin
• Salt and pepper
Directions:
Use the same pan to sauté each veggie separately. Chop scallion and set aside. While eggs cook, sauté onion with salt and pepper, 10 minutes until golden. Sauté mushrooms 3-4 minutes.
For perfect soft boiled eggs, bring cold eggs in cold water up to a boil. When water bubbles, remove from heat and cover for 4 minutes. Drain and rinse with cold water. Peel while still a little warm, cut in quarters.
Sauté four handfuls of baby greens in a little olive oil with a pinch of salt for 3 minutes. Combine 4 cups water and bone broth or homemade stock, add carrots and bring to a boil. Add noodles and cook for 3 minutes. Remove from heat, stir in 1T miso and 1 packet seasoning. Split between 4 large bowls, with plenty of room to add other ingredients. Sprinkle with scallion.
‘YOUR NAME’ FRUIT COCKTAIL
SERVES
4 people
Ingredients:
• 2 large Mangos, peeled and chopped
• 2 Dragon Fruit, shelled
• 2 kiwi - peeled and chopped
• 1 pomegranate or seeds
• 1 Cup Blueberries
• 1 lemon
• 2 T honey
• 1 T chia seeds
Directions:
Collagen is all the trend in supplements, and what’s important to note is that your body really needs a good amount of vitamin C in order to convert the proteins into the collagen it needs. Best source? Fruit of course!
The possibilities are endless here. In the spirit of exploring, start with fruit you know and love, and add something new at a pace that feels good to you. Cut up fruit on a Sunday, and you have a powerful snack for a couple of days. On day 3, put in your oatmeal, and on day 4, in your smoothie or freeze for another day. For an added punch, sprinkle your favorite seeds (chia, pumpkin, hemp) over the top. For this recipe, we combined tart and sweet. Cut the dragon fruit in half and you can even use the shell as a fun bowl. Mix all the fruit or let everyone choose. Mix the juice of 1 lemon with honey for an added kick of flavor and to support digestion and absorption of these powerful nutrients. When kiddos come up with their own special combinations, they can put their name on it.
JULY 29TH - AUGUST 3RD
McHenry County Fair
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
McHenry County Fairgrounds, 11900 Country Club Road, Woodstock
It's that time of year again...McHenry County’s favorite past time, the McHenry County Fair, Enjoy six days of live music, carnival rides, fair food, farm animals, and all of your other favorite fair entertainment. Entry tickets available online, starting at $4.50, or at the gate. Additional fees required for some Grand Stand events. For more information visit: mchenrycountyfair.com
AUGUST 7TH
National Night Out with Crystal Lake Police Department
Downtown Crystal Lake | 5:00 PM
Enjoy a free, family-friendly event focused on building community and strengthening the relationship between residents and local law enforcement. National Night Out is a great chance to connect, have fun, and promote a safer, stronger community together. Enjoy games and activities for kids, music and entertainment, touch-a-truck with police and fire departments, raffles, giveaways, and more. More info at: downtowncl.org/events/national-night-out
AUGUST 10TH
Monarchs and Music
Crystal Lake Main Beach | 12:30 PM
Migrate to the beach for Monarch Mania! A free event, from 12:30-4:30pm, loaded with games, activities and everything butterflies. Learn about Monarch butterflies and other pollinators from local organizations, check out the Creative Arts fairy houses and butterfly art. Plus kids’ face painting and more, Dress in your best butterfly shirts, wings, or hats. Live music from 1:00-4:00. More info: crystallakeparks.org/calendar-of-events
AUGUST 23RD
Palmer’s Party
Colonel Palmer House, | 10:00 AM
This free event has activities for all ages! Head over to Colonel Palmer House for a day of live music, clay oven demos, garden party crafts, historic games, storytelling and more! 10:00am-2:00pm. Sponsored by the Crystal Lake Park District and Colonel Palmer House. Event detail at: facebook.com/events/colonel-palmer-house/palmers-party/1796696964223935/
AUGUST 29TH - 31ST
Lake in the Hills Summer Sunset Fest
Sunset Park, 5200 Miller Road, LITH
This annual 3-day FREE event offers the community an opportunity to enjoy a wealth of activities, food, and entertainment as the summer season comes to a close. The Main Stage hosts a full line-up of music entertainment while you purchase food and beverages from the various vendors and check out the carnival. Learn more at: summersunsetfest.com
AUGUST 31ST
6th Annual Crystal Lake Half Marathon & 12k
Main Beach and Downtown Crystal Lake | 7:30 AM
Enjoy the sites of Crystal Lake in either the scenic half marathon or 12k race. Both start at Main Beach and finish on Grant Street downtown. This is a point to point race with buses dropping off at the START. Celebration and awards at the after race party at Crystal Lake Brewing. For more information or to register visit: rpbytrudy.com/c-l-half-marathon-1
