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The Art of Style S E P TE M B E R 2 02 6

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CELEBRATING

25 YEARS OF BRINGING OUR COMMUNITY TOGETHER

ENT H E A R TER RAFUOER TC S 25 Anniversary th

For 25 years, Raue Center has been a place where our community comes together to enjoy great performances, learn, laugh and create lasting memories. This milestone belongs to everyone who has supported our mission, including our patrons, members, donors, volunteers, sponsors, community partners and dedicated Board of Directors. We are especially grateful to the City of Crystal Lake and Home State Bank for their continued partnership and commitment to the arts. As we celebrate 25 remarkable years, we are proud to welcome eight new members to our Board of Directors and recognize the many volunteer leaders whose vision and service have helped shape Raue Center into the community treasure it is today.

RAUE CENTER FOR THE ARTS 26 N. WILLIAMS STREET, DOWNTOWN CRYSTAL LAKE

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Thank you for helping shape our story. We can't wait to share what's next.

WELCOMING OUR NEW BOARD MEMBERS BOB ATKINSON JOHN DACOSSE MEREDITH FLOWERS JOHN GREEN PAUL LEECH COURTNEY PETROCCI REAGEN SHEPLEY MATT TURK A SINCERE THANK YOU TO OUR LONGTIME BOARD MEMBERS WHOSE LEADERSHIP HAS SHAPED RAUE CENTER OVER THE PAST 25 YEARS.

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LIFESTYLE LETTER

More Than Style

September 2026 PUBLISHER

Tracey Joyce | tracey.joyce@citylifestyle.com

The September issue is all about style. Many people hear the word style and immediately think of fashion, home décor, or the latest trends. While you'll find plenty of those throughout these pages, I've come to realize that true style is about much more. It's reflected in how we carry ourselves, how we treat others, and the passion and authenticity we bring to everything we do. True style is reflected in the people around us, and I'm fortunate to work alongside some of the very best. This magazine wouldn't exist without an incredibly talented team whose professionalism, creativity, and grace inspire me every single month. Each of them brings their own unique style–not only in their work but also in the kindness, dedication, and professionalism they show every day. Their talent is undeniable, but it's their character that impresses me most. As someone still relatively new to this role, I feel incredibly fortunate to be surrounded by people who have welcomed me, encouraged me, and shared their knowledge so generously. They have made this journey both rewarding and enjoyable, and I am sincerely grateful for every one of them. Their hard work often happens behind the scenes, but it never goes unnoticed. Without each of them, there would not be a magazine. To my Editor, Patti Noble, thank you for your leadership and your remarkable ability to bring every story to life. Lead Writer Katie Bobrow and Contributing Writer Klaudia Burian, thank you for sharing the stories that make our community so special. To Photographers, Sharmila Taylor and David Bradburn, thank you for capturing the moments, people, and places that give this magazine its heart. Steve Rogers, my Co-Publisher, thank you for your partnership and incredible support. And to our readers, I hope you enjoy this month's celebration of style–and perhaps you'll discover that the most memorable style is found not only in what we wear, but in how we live and serve our community.

E D I TO R

Patti Noble | patti.noble@citylifestyle.com STAF F W R I T E R

Katie Bobrow | katie.bobrow@citylifestyle.com AC C O U N T M AN AG E R

Steve Rogers | steve.rogers@citylifestyle.com CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Klaudia Burian C O N T R I B U T I N G P H OTO G R AP H E R S

David Bradburn, Sharmila Taylor

Corporate Team CEO Steven Schowengerdt President Matthew Perry CRO Jamie Pentz CoS Janeane Thompson AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell

T R AC E Y J OYC E , P U B L I S H E R @ C R Y S TA L L A K E C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E

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 SE PTE M B E R 2 02 6 | STYL E

16 Featured

16 22

Print Prestige Meets Digital Power.

WHY CHOOSE BETWEEN PRESTIGE AND PLACEMENT?

Departments

Light Discipline

Lifestyle Letter

From military precision to holiday displays, one veteran continues serving others in a new way.

City Scene

House Call HOME SERVICES

Home Update HOME + DESIGN

More than Light

Must See ARTS + CULTURE

How To LIFE + CULTURE

Chef ’s Selection HOME + DESIGN

Events

Designing a home that reflects your personality

The More Things Change...

Though uses have changed, Crystal Lake’s historic storefronts and beloved parks continue serving the community

On the Cover This month we focus on evolving style. And the Jaster’s building embodies both. Thank you to the team at Vine & Plate for welcoming us for this cover shoot! Photography: Sharmila Taylor

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SEPTEMBER 2026

city scene WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

SHARMILA TAYLOR PHOTOGRAPHY

KATIE SINDE

7 5

1: Annette Hammortree and her team at Hammortree Financial Services celebrates 40 years in business. 2: Celebrating a Legacy of Relationships at Hammortree Financial Service's 40th Anniversary Open House. 3: Braving the ice bucket challenge at IBC Ales for ALS event at Crystal Lake Brewery. 4: Welcome to the neighborhood, Roan Solutions. Your work with families is invaluable 5: Crystal Lake Brewing brews a beer for Ales for ALS and fundraises for ALS Greater Chicago. 6: Enjoying a cold drink on a warm day at Grounds Coffee, downtown Crystal Lake. 7: Have you been to the library lately? Friendly librarians and staff are waiting for you!

Want to be seen in the magazine? TA G Y O U R I N S TA G R A M P H O T O S W I T H @ C R Y S TA L L A K E C I T Y L I F E S T Y L E

C I T Y SC E N E

Real Estate Report Recently Sold Properties in the Crystal Lake Area ADDRESS 691 Lake Ave 9315 N Muirfield Dr 9605 S Muirfield Dr 2813 Bergren Ct 795 Oak Ct 7155 Fairway Dr 5606 Winding Rd 2907 Fawn Trail Ct 1581 Grouse Way 6535 Woodland Hills Dr 6932 Cambria Cv 9530 Nicklaus Ln 4210 Belson Ln 3517 Oakleaf Ln 3735 Thunderbird Ln 808 Wedgewood Dr 6709 Oakwood Manor Dr 7540 Farrell Dr 8960 Shade Tree Cir 85 E Terra Cotta Ave

SOLD PRICE $1,300,000 $1,226,999 $1,216,000 $1,195,000 $1,127,000 $1,125,000 $879,900 $875,000 $825,000 $820,000 $801,681 $800,000 $800,000 $799,900 $775,000 $767,500 $760,000 $740,000 $738,000 $725,000

SOLD DATE

% SOLD/ORIG

DOM

BDRMS

BATHS

7/8/2026

93%

230

6.2

5/20/2026

103%

4.3

5/7/2026

90%

3.1

6/1/2026

100%

5.2

4/30/2026

107%

2.0

5/29/2026

102%

4.1

6/30/2026

101%

4.0

6/15/2026

103%

4.1

6/3/2026

106%

3.1

7/13/2026

109%

3.1

6/29/2026

151%

231

2.0

7/14/2026

100%

3.1

5/12/2026

100%

4.1

5/20/2026

100%

4.0

6/29/2026

103%

4.0

6/10/2026

99%

4.0

6/16/2026

103%

5.1

3.1

6/3/2026

98%

3.1

6/16/2026

100%

5/27/2026

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 5/1/26 - 7/31/26. DOM is Days on Market.

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ARTICLE BY PATTI NOBLE | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

Light Discipline From military precision to holiday displays, one veteran continues serving others in a new way.

H OU SE CA LL | HO M E S ERVICE S

The irony isn't lost on Joshua Jacobs. For years, the Army veteran lived by the military principle of light discipline—the practice of limiting visible light to protect troops in dangerous environments. Today, the former infantry paratrooper and veteran police officer has built a business around creating light instead. As the owner of Light Discipline, a holiday lighting company established in 2020, Jacobs spends his days transforming homes and businesses into custom displays that brighten neighborhoods and mark life's biggest celebrations. Josh grew up in Algonquin and graduated from Jacobs High School before enlisting in the U.S. Army in 2002. Assigned to the elite 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg, he deployed to Afghanistan and twice to Iraq as an infantry paratrooper. Those years shaped his discipline and resilience, but they also came at a cost. Like many combat veterans, Josh experienced the lasting effects of war after losing fellow soldiers during deployment. Rather than letting those experiences define him, they reinforced something that had always been important to him—service.

After earning a degree in Criminal Justice from Illinois State University, Josh entered law enforcement, where he spent more than a decade serving his community as a police officer specializing in investigations, crisis intervention, and SWAT operations. Inspired by a former colleague in Bloomington who had launched a holiday lighting company, Josh saw an opportunity to create something different when he returned to the Algonquin area. As a proud single father with full custody of his daughter, he wanted to build a business that offered both stability and the flexibility to be present for the moments that mattered most. Mission accomplished: you'll often find Josh on the sidelines coaching his daughter's softball team. For Josh, Light Discipline isn't simply about holiday décor—it's about creating moments of joy. "People get excited," he says. "They don't have to worry about climbing ladders or untangling lights. They can simply enjoy the season." That peace of mind is something he takes seriously. Every installation is carefully planned and customized to the home

or business, reflecting the same attention to detail that has guided him throughout his military and law enforcement careers. Unlike many holiday lighting companies that operate as seasonal side businesses, Light Discipline is a full-time operation, specializing in custom-cut holiday lighting. Josh begins installations as early as September, offering incentives to customers who reserve their place before the holiday rush. Customization is at the heart of every project and no two designs are alike. Each display is designed specifically for the property's architecture and the client's vision. Low-voltage lights are ordered for each customer, carefully labeled, and organized into dedicated storage crates after the season ends. The homeowner simply stores the bins until the following year, when every strand is ready to be reinstalled exactly where it belongs. For Josh, the name Light Discipline carries special meaning. In the military, light discipline refers to controlling or limiting light so soldiers remain concealed during combat operations. Today, the phrase has

“Josh uses light not for concealment, but to create warmth, celebration, and lasting memories for the families and businesses he serves.” taken on a new meaning. Through his business, Josh uses light not for concealment, but to create warmth, celebration, and lasting memories for the families and businesses he serves. Service hasn't disappeared from Josh's life—it has simply taken a different form. Each year, Light Discipline honors a local veteran, active-duty service member, police officer, firefighter, or first responder by providing complimentary holiday lighting installation and removal through the company's Hometown Heroes program. It's a small gesture that reflects the values that have guided Josh throughout every stage of his life. For Josh Jacobs, the work has never been just about holiday lights. It's about creating something that brings people together, sparks joy, and makes life a little brighter. In many ways, Light Discipline reflects the journey that brought him here—discipline, service, and finding new ways to brighten the lives of others. S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C RYSTA L L A KE

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S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C RYSTA L L A KE

MORE ARTICLE BY PATTI NOBLE PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID BRADBURN & PROVIDED

than

LIGHT

Designing a home that reflects your personality Lighting has long been one of the defining elements of a well-designed home and there was a time when homeowners carefully matched every light fixture to a specific decorating style—traditional, farmhouse, industrial, or mid-century modern. Today, those design rules are becoming more fluid. Instead of decorating around a label, homeowners are choosing pieces that reflect their personality, mixing materials, finishes, and styles to create spaces that feel uniquely their own. Whether it's a sculptural chandelier that commands attention over the dining table, a dramatic pendant above a kitchen island, or a sleek sconce that doubles as wall art, lighting has become one of the most expressive elements of home design. It's no longer just about function; it's about creating mood, adding personality, and making a statement. Rather than asking, "Is this farmhouse or modern," many homeowners are asking, "Do I love it?" The result is a home that feels more personal, layered, and uniquely reflective of the people who live there. That isn't just true of lighting—it's true of interiors as a whole. Helping homeowners discover that personal style has been the mission of Crystal Lake Lighting & Design since 1986. As a third-generation, woman-owned business, the local showroom, at 150 S. Virginia Road, has evolved alongside changing design trends while remaining focused on one thing: helping customers find lighting that complements not just their home, but the way they live.

H OM E U P DAT E | HO M E + D E SIGN

Over the years, Crystal Lake Lighting & Design has grown from a specialty lighting showroom into a full-service interior design studio offering lighting, furnishings, window treatments, artwork, and complete-room design. Through nearly four decades, the philosophy has remained unchanged: quality matters, timeless design never goes out of style, and every home should reflect the people who live there. Today, owner Jessica Trinkus and lead designer, Jennifer Robbins, continue that philosophy, helping homeowners look beyond trends, choose lighting that reflects how they live, and think of lighting as one of the most personal design decisions in a home. More than ever, lighting is being treated like art. A sculptural chandelier over a dining table, an oversized pendant above a kitchen island, or a dramatic wall sconce can become the focal point of a room just as easily as a painting or statement piece of furniture. Rather than asking whether a fixture fits a particular style, designers encourage homeowners to choose pieces that resonate with them—fixtures they'll still love years from now. Part of that freedom comes from the remarkable variety of materials and craftsmanship available today. Homeowners have more opportunities than ever to combine finishes and textures in ways that feel both timeless and deeply personal. It's one reason visiting a design showroom can be so valuable—seeing finishes, scale and the quality of light in person often reveals details that simply can't be appreciated on a screen.

Photo by: David Bradburn

Metals play an important role in defining the personality of a fixture. Warm brass develops a rich, natural patina over time, while bronze brings depth and warmth to a space. Hand-forged iron celebrates traditional craftsmanship with its organic character, and timeless nickel offers a clean versatility that complements a wide range of interiors. Glass has evolved well beyond the simple clear globe. Seeded, fluted, ribbed, etched, frosted, and hand-blown glass each interact with light differently, creating everything from a soft ambient glow to dramatic sparkle and texture. Designers are also incorporating alabaster, marble, stone, wood, leather, linen, ceramic, and even mother-of-pearl into fixtures that blur the line between lighting and sculpture. Natural stone, wood textures, artisan metalwork, and handcrafted finishes add warmth and authenticity that transcend changing trends. For Jessica and Jennifer, however, the materials themselves are only part of the story. They believe the most memorable fixtures aren't necessarily the most elaborate—they're the ones that feel authentic to the home and become part of everyday life. CONTINUED >

S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C RYSTA L L A KE

That philosophy is reflected in one of today's biggest design shifts: the willingness to mix materials rather than perfectly match them. Brass paired with walnut, forged iron softened by alabaster, or crystal accented with warm bronze creates depth and character that feels collected over time. In kitchens especially, designers are combining artisan lighting, natural stone, wood textures, and one-of-a-kind details to create spaces that feel warm, personal and distinctly their own. Beautiful homes rarely rely on a single overhead fixture. Instead, Jessica suggests layering pendants, sconces, recessed lighting, under-cabinet lighting, accent lighting and table lamps to create warmth while highlighting artwork, architectural details, natural wood and stone. The result is a home that feels inviting throughout the day and easily adapts from everyday living to entertaining. While today's lighting offers more possibilities than ever, Jessica and Jennifer encourage homeowners not to get caught up in chasing the latest trend. Instead, they recommend choosing fixtures that feel authentic to the home and the people who live there—pieces that complement the architecture, reflect personal style, and will

Photo by: David Bradburn

still feel just as meaningful years from now. Thoughtfully selected lighting should evolve with a home, becoming part of its story rather than simply following the latest design movement. In the end, the best lighting isn't simply what brightens a room. It's what makes the space feel unmistakably yours. Trends will come and go, but thoughtfully chosen fixtures—like any well-loved piece of art or furniture—can become part of a home's story for decades.

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Photo by Sharmila Taylor

THE MORE THINGS CHANGE..

"The more things change, the more they stay the same." The familiar French proverb, attributed to Jean-Baptiste Alphonse Karr, speaks to the consistent patterns of life and human nature. But it also feels remarkably fitting when looking at the history of Crystal Lake. Buildings have risen and fallen. Businesses have opened, closed, and reinvented themselves and farmland has become neighborhoods, parks, and recreation areas. Yet through all of that change, many of the places that define the community remain surprisingly familiar. Although Crystal Lake officially became a city in 1914, it was incorporated as a village in 1874, and the area's first permanent settler arrived in 1835. That early pioneer would hardly recognize today's thriving community, yet there would still be unmistakable landmarks: the clear lake that ultimately gave the town its name, the rolling hills, mature oak trees, and stretches of prairie that still stand in places like Veteran Acres and Sterne's Woods are reminders that some things last.

M UST SE E | ARTS + C ULT U RE

ARTICLE BY KATIE BOBROW | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHARMILA TAYLOR AND PROVIDED

THOUGH THEIR USES HAVE CHANGED OVER TIME, CRYSTAL LAKE’S HISTORIC STOREFRONTS AND BELOVED PARKS CONTINUE SERVING THE COMMUNITY, JUST AS THEY ALWAYS HAVE

J.J. Jaster standing behind the counter

Settlement came quickly, and by the late nineteenth century Crystal Lake had become a bustling village with a railroad depot, a growing downtown, working farms, and businesses lining Virginia Street. Many of those original businesses have disappeared, but some of the buildings that housed them continue serving the community in new ways. Virginia Street, now also known as U.S. Route 14, has always been one of Crystal Lake's defining corridors. Long before cars, the route followed an old Indian trail connecting Fort Dearborn (Chicago) with Wisconsin. When European settlers arrived via this trail, many hailed from Virginia, hence the name. Route 14 still takes you to Chicago ending at Lake Michigan itself, and while there are more efficient ways to get there now, some things stay the same. It was along this historic corridor that Joseph J. Jaster built his business. Born in Germany in 1892, Jaster immigrated to Crystal Lake with his family at the age of 11. In 1914, he purchased

property adjacent to the site of the Ashton House, one of the community's earliest hotels, which had been destroyed by fire a decade earlier. The hotel's former livery stable once occupied the lot where Jaster chose to build, and he incorporated handhewn timbers salvaged from the livery into the support beams of his stone building. More than a century later, those original beams can still be seen in the basement. From the building's first floor, Jaster operated a grocery that became a neighborhood staple. Customers could purchase fresh meat, pantry essentials, canned and fresh fruits and vegetables, candy for children, and practical necessities such as overalls and rope. After Jaster's death in 1951, the grocery closed and the building was sold. It stood vacant for a time before beginning a new life under successive owners and businesses. Though its purpose has evolved over the decades, most recently home to Vine & Plate, the sturdy stone building remains exactly where Jaster built it in 1914, continuing to serve the community in new ways, along the same historic road. Just about a mile away, another familiar landmark tells a similar story. Old Towne Hall has continually adapted to meet the community's changing needs while remaining a place where people come together. Its story began in 1911 when local real estate developer C.L. Teckler constructed the impressive twostory building, at the time, a project significant enough to make the front page of the Crystal Lake Herald. Teckler spared little expense, incorporating 15-foot ceilings and steel beams, features that were remarkable for the time and reflected both the owner’s ambition and the building’s intended permanence. CONTINUED >

J.J Jaster and his family outside the grocery in the early years S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C RYSTA L L A KE

North Main St. - 1906 shortly after Town Hall was built

While the first floor has been home to Heisler's Bootery since the 1960s, becoming a Crystal Lake institution in its own right, the second floor has continually evolved over the past century. Originally built as a meeting hall for the Modern Woodmen of America, it later served the community in many capacities, as a meeting place for numerous churches, the American Legion, a dance hall, and print shop. Over the decades, it has also functioned as a social club, a retail warehouse and, according to local legend, even a neighborhood speakeasy tucked away above Main Street. Currently, it is a stunning banquet hall, restored to its original beauty. Though its occupants have changed with the times, its purpose has remained remarkably consistent: providing a place for the community to gather. Not every landmark that has stood the test of time is made of brick and stone. Veteran Acres, once Walkup Woods, has witnessed nearly every chapter of Crystal Lake's history. Long

M UST SE E | ARTS + C ULT U RE

before they became beloved public parks, portions of the land were privately owned by the Walkup family, namely Christopher and his sons Josiah and John. Today, visitors hike the same hillsides, walk beneath many of the same mature trees and enjoy the same pond that generations before them experienced. Even when the property was privately owned as Walkup Woods, the famous Big Hill had already become a favorite winter destination. Children gathered to race downhill on everything from homemade sleds and cardboard boxes to steel-runner toboggans, filling the woods with laughter long before the land officially became a park. The property had a brief stint in the 1920’s as a golf course, however the great depression hit and the club closed its doors in 1935. When the Crystal Lake Park District acquired Walkup Woods in 1939, the landscape began another chapter. Renamed Veteran Acres in 1946 in a contest, the name was chosen to honor the community’s WWII veterans.

PRESERVING CRYSTAL LAKE’S STORY

For decades, the park has welcomed hikers, cross-country skiers, baseball players, tennis enthusiasts, playground explorers, and families simply looking for a quiet walk. There was once a warming house for skaters and annual fireworks displays. Today those features have given way to a splash pad, updated playgrounds, and expanded trails. While the activities may have evolved, the purpose has not. Veteran Acres continues to be a place where the community gathers outdoors, just as it has for generations. The Nature Center reflects that same evolution. Built in 1968, by the park district and D47 as a cooperative outdoor education site, it has also served as the park district’s preschool before becoming the Nature Center it is today. Throughout each chapter, it has remained dedicated to connecting people with and educating them on the wonders of nature. Perhaps nowhere in Crystal Lake is transformation more dramatic than at Three Oaks Recreation Area. What is now one of the city's most popular destinations began as productive farmland. At one time, as many as nine family farms occupied the property before parcels were gradually sold for gravel mining. The proposal sparked significant opposition. Residents worried about increased traffic, noise, and the loss of productive farmland, while city leaders challenged the project through years of legal battles that ultimately reached the Illinois Supreme Court. Mining eventually moved forward, and for decades the landscape was defined by gravel pits. However, when mining operations ended, those excavated lakes made possible something few could have imagined: one of the area's best recreation areas. Today, Three Oaks offers swimming, fishing, kayaking, hiking, and community events, transforming what was once viewed as an unwelcome change into one of Crystal Lake's greatest treasures. Perhaps that is the lesson these places quietly teach us. Buildings may change hands and parks may add new amenities. Farmland may become lakes, and businesses may reinvent themselves. But the role these places play within the community remains consistent, they continue bringing people together. Families still gather to share fresh food, however now in the form of served meals, in the Jaster Building, now Vine and Plate. Children still race down Big Hill with the same excitement they did generations ago. Residents continue celebrating at Old Towne Hall, exploring the Nature Center and spending summer days at Three Oaks. The settings evolve, but the memories they create remain familiar. Communities are built on connection, not simply on buildings or landscapes. Crystal Lake has changed tremendously since its earliest days, but the feeling of community and the fact that these places are still a part of everyday life, remains unchanged. And maybe that's why, here in Crystal Lake, the more things change, the more they really do stay the same.

The history shared in this article would not have been possible without the generosity and dedication of the organizations committed to preserving Crystal Lake’s past. Special thanks go to the Crystal Lake Historical Society for providing research materials, historical context and the archival photographs featured with this story. Their ongoing work ensures that the people, places, and stories that shaped our community continue to be remembered and shared with future generations. Additional thanks to the Crystal Lake Park District, particularly Sarah Taylor, Colonel Palmer House Supervisor, for her time, expertise and assistance in researching the history of Veteran Acres, Sterne’s Woods, Three Oaks Recreation Area and other community landmarks. If this article sparks your curiosity, the Crystal Lake Park District is offering a wonderful opportunity to learn even more. On Saturday, October 10, from 3–5 p.m., the Nature Center will host Nature Center History, an all-ages program exploring local history through a presentation and interactive activities. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or new to the area, it’s a chance to discover the stories that continue to shape Crystal Lake today.

A group of tobogganers - 1955 enjoy a snowy day at Veteran Acres S EP TEMB ER 2 0 2 6 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C OM/C RYSTA L L A KE

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FALL-FRESCO BEACH PICNIC ARTICLE BY KLAUDIA BURIAN

THE BEACH IS STILL CALLING. BUTTON UP A COOL DAY WITH A SIMPLE MEAL LAKESIDE.

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“As fall turns the page, it’s time to trade in that beach towel.” Late 19th century naturalist and environmental activist John Muir famously wrote “The mountains are calling and I must go." His advocacy, through his many writings about his time spent in the natural lands of the United States, helped to preserve much of the national parks enjoyed by so many today. And thank goodness. According to the EPA, the average person in the US only spends about 7% of their time outdoors, and the impact is clear. Humans need nature. The research and evidence around forest bathing, the need for natural morning light, and grounding (walking barefoot on natural land like grass or sand) is solid. As the months cool, it can be tempting to spend even more time indoors. Finding a little time each day outside can gradually acclimate the body to the shifts in temperature and air pressure, making

the transition seem less oppressive. And as the air cools, the mosquitoes seem to chill out a bit, and time in the woods or at the beach feels a little bit more enjoyable. As fall turns the page, it’s time to trade in that beach towel and sunscreen for some blankets and pillows, and still hit the beach for some much needed space, wind, movement, and natural light. This is where easy and simple alfresco dining becomes part of an irresistible fall routine. Alfresco simply means outdoors or in the open air. It was adopted as a style from an Italian phrase meaning "in the fresh air". There’s plenty of opportunity to locally explore a beach or family-friendly forest preserve. If looking for a combination of woods and sand, look no further than the magical dunes of Indiana and western Michigan lakeshore. A weekend day trip hits all the marks. The arc of this magical experience starts with a hike along a sandy ground floor, over gentle hills, under a canopy of leaves shifting their hues. Over a dune or two, the lake appears, and the sound of the waves welcome you in. Many gather there for a light nibble, and to mark the end of a day worth living. A community of people coming together to watch the sun, and all her glory, take her evening bow. All sharing in this precious, moment, with faith, proven over and over again, that tomorrow, like always, she will rise. "The beach is calling, and I must go." CONTINUED >

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Most people have a lot on their plate, and spend little time just being. Taking a break from the usual surroundings, often filled with visual reminders of endless to dos, can be a powerful intervention for settling the mind, and feeding the soul. Beaches offer a visual vastness unlike any other, calming the senses and relaxing the nervous system. This month, we're sharing a "recipe" for an experience: a thoughtfully curated fall picnic that's as easy to assemble as it is to enjoy. Keeping a small bin in the back of the car with a couple of essentials, that will be there standing by when the mood strikes, makes this always within reach; blankets (one for sitting, one for wrapping or cuddling), two yummy pillows, a string of battery powered pixie lights, a cutting board for a stable surface for drinks, hand wipes, reusable or disposable cutlery, and a flashlight (in case it gets dark, it may be hard to leave). There’s a reason why canning jar soups and salads are so popular. The container is versatile, travels well without spilling, and comes in various sizes to satisfy the appetite of papa, mama and baby bear. Since September tends to lean towards warm days and cool evenings, the menu can accommodate a warm afternoon with individual salads, layered with grains, beans, and colorful fall veggies, perfectly in season and budget friendly, that are individually preferred. For a cooler evening, try some warm creamy squash soup and pita, or individual sandwiches on fresh baguette with some warm sipping broth in a thermos. For dessert, any treat that travels well. Brownies, parfaits, or a simple gooey pastry, hot cacao, or the fall favorite, spicy hot apple cider. And when all the planning falls apart, some takeout on the way still hits the point. When the beach or forest is calling, listen. And go.

H OW TO | L I FE + C ULTUR E

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interested in materials that offer lasting performance and timeless style, and she has carefully curated a collection that reflects that growing appreciation for quality craftsmanship. “People are buying differently today and looking for quality pieces that will last, rather than the least expensive option,” Sarah explained. The beauty of these materials is that they aren't limited to one type of product. From cookware and cutting boards to everyday utensils and food storage, choosing quality materials can make even the simplest kitchen tasks more enjoyable. Stainless steel cookware remains a favorite among both professional chefs and home cooks for its versatility and durability. While it takes a little practice, allowing the pan to fully preheat before adding oil and food helps create a naturally nonstick cooking surface that's perfect for everything from sautéing vegetables to achieving a beautiful sear.

Carbon steel cookware, like the Made In griddles featured at Kitchen Outfitters, offers another option for serious cooks. Lighter than cast iron but capable of developing a naturally seasoned surface over time, carbon steel heats quickly, responds well to changes in temperature, and transitions easily from the stovetop to the oven. Even everyday kitchen tools are getting an upgrade. Epicurean cutting boards, made in Wisconsin, from a durable wood fiber composite, are knife friendly, lightweight, dishwasher safe, and built for years of everyday use. Wooden and stainless steel utensils stand up to daily cooking while adding timeless style to the countertop, and glass food-storage containers offer a durable alternative for storing leftovers without absorbing stains or odors. Even small tools, like mini stainless steel tongs, prove that thoughtful design can make everyday tasks—from turning vegetables to plating delicate garnishes—a little easier.

While kitchen trends may evolve, the tools we choose help shape the moments we create there. By investing in quality materials that balance beauty, function, and durability, you're building a kitchen that's ready for whatever comes next.

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SEPTEMBER 2026

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SE PT E M BE R 6T H

7th Annual Crystal Lake Half Marathon, 12K and After Party Crystal Lake Main Beach and Depot Park | 7:30 AM Whether racing or spectating, this day is for everyone. Beginning at Crystal Lake Main Beach and ending at the newly renovated Depot Park, the course winds through the streets and paths of Crystal Lake. The after-party at Depot Park features post-race entertainment by hometown band, Pearlsnap. Register, check out the course, details, and current pricing at: raceroster.com/events/2026/113777/ 2026-crystal-lake-half-marathon-and-12k SE PT E M BE R 1 1 T H

McHenry County Mental Health Board Community Connections Summit McHenry County College | 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM Attend a day of building community through connection by moving beyond surface-level interaction to engage in the kind of honest, transformative communication that creates lasting bonds. Includes a keynote speech by Shira Greenfield, LCPC, Clinical Director for Pivotal Counseling Center–who will discuss ways people connect and disconnect in the digital age, and exhibits by 40 area resources. Information at: mc708.org/ccsummit/ SE PT E M BE R 1 2 T H - 1 3TH

Art on the Fox Main Street, Downtown Algonquin | 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM The Village of Algonquin invites you to get artsy at Art on the Fox! Browse original creations from 75 artists, visit the Kids Art Zone for art projects and games, or enjoy face painting, giant bubbles, and live painting classes! Pop into any of Algonquin’s bistros, taps, or pubs for refreshments. More information about this family-friendly event at: amdurproductions.com/art-on-the-fox/ SE PT E M BE R 1 8T H

Service League of Crystal Lake Annual Housewalk Various | 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM & 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM The Crystal Lake Service League is once again partnering with homeowners of four amazing homes within the Crystal Lake community to give Housewalk attendees a peek inside and experience each of their unique styles. Service League members and volunteers are on hand to point out notable details, history, and personal stories unique to each home. Tickets and information at: slcrystallake.org/housewalk/ SE PT E M BE R 1 8T H

A Million Dreams: From Hope to Home Gala Elara Ballroom, Holiday Inn of Crystal Lake | 6:00 PM Home of the Sparrow presents a magical evening inspired by a vintage circus theme and the magic of life-changing possibility, where every detail evokes the nostalgia, spectacle, and heart of a classic big top. Guests will enjoy a delicious dinner, open bar, circus performances, and electrifying live entertainment by Heatwave. Tickets: $150/person; $1100/table of 8; $1300/ table of 10. hosparrow.org/ events/a-million-dreams-from-hope-to-home-charity-gala

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