

MORE THAN JUST HOMES
A PARTNERSHIP IN A PARTNERSHIP IN CRAFTSMANSHIP CRAFTSMANSHIP
Putman Builders has spent more than three decades building Chicagoland homes the right way family-owned, ENERGY STAR certified, and obsessive about craftsmanship. Now they've joined forces with Randi Lynn Quigley of The Randi Lynn Group at eXp Luxury The result: one partnership, one trusted team, one custom home built around how you actually live.




What We Offer
Custom homes from the upper $600s All-inclusive pricing no surprise add-ons Quartz counters, upgraded railings, premium flooring ENERGY STAR certified construction Spec homes and proposed new construction
Listing Exclusively by Randi Lynn Quigley on behalf of The Randi Lynn Group, eXp Luxury


Price starts from $690,000 $690,000


Your Summer of Discovery
Happy Summer, Lincolnway! In our area, there's always excitement when summer arrives. We're outside more, kids are off school, vacations happen, and it's just such a perfect time to explore. The dictionary says explore means to travel through an unfamiliar area to learn about it or to closely investigate a subject, idea or possibility. My definition....JUST TRY.

When my daughter was in 5th grade, she consid ered trying cross country. She wasn't a fan of running but knew it was a great activity. She told me, "Mom, I just don't want to come in last place." She gave it a shot and, during their school meets, her worst placement was fifth to last place. She was so proud and, although she didn’t want to pursue running, she was glad she tried it. Ultimately, that experience set her athletic expectations and she became an NCAA volleyball player. Moral of the story: JUST TRY.
This month we're giving you the opportunity to explore everything from Farmers Markets to short getaways and many experiences in between. Take advantage of all of them, JUST TRY!
Speaking of trying, we have a new intern this summer who is learning the publishing business. Welcome to Emily Noesen, a recent graduate of Lincoln-Way East High School, who will be attending the University of Missouri-Columbia in the fall to study journalism. We are also excited to announce our newest Partners. Welcome Sharefest Will County, Ratliff Accounting and Tax LLC, and Nowakowski & Conner PLLC. We're honored to have all of you join the Lincolnway City Lifestyle family. Now, everyone go EXPLORE!
All the best,

JANET VIANE, PUBLISHER
@LINCOLNWAY_CITYLIFESTYLE
July 2026
PUBLISHER
Janet Viane | janet.viane@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Nicole Swanberg Wright
nicole.swanbergwright@citylifestyle.com
PUBLISHER ASSISTANT
Kenadee Berry | kenadee.berry@citylifestyle.com
SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR
Meg Mueller | meg@socialbutterflysocialmedia.com
INTERN
Emily Noesen | noesenemily@gmail.com
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Jean Lachat, jean@jeanlachatphotography.com
Chris Moran, cmoranphotography@gmail.com
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
President Matthew Perry
COO David Stetler
CRO Jamie Pentz
CoS Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Rachel Kolich
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kelsey Ragain
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell


Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
Proverbs 3:5-6





CREATING THE ULTIMATE BACKYARD OASIS
Every backyard is unique, which is why we tailor each pool project to fit your specific needs. From the start, our sales team meets with you to understand how you envision using your outdoor space. Whether it’s a sports-friendly layout, a tanning ledge for relaxation or a spool for year-round luxury, we’ll help you bring your vision to life. We guide you through all the design elements, features, layouts and finishes ensuring your pool not only looks stunning but also suits the way you live.






1: So much fun was had at the “Get Hooked on Frankfort” Fishing Derby! 2: Manhattan Police Department recently raised money for Illinois Special Olympics at Dunkin’ Donuts. 3: Nature Foundation of Will County donated $55,545 to the Forest Preserve, supporting restoration, programs, exhibits.



Bridging the Gap Between Rehab and Performance
At REBUILT, we don’t just help you get out of pain. We help you stay out of it. By combining modern chiropractic care with rehab and strength training, we get you back to doing what you love and keep you performing at your best.
Voted Southland’s Best Chiropractor

VILLAGE OF FRANKFORT
MANHATTAN POLICE

&
It
oughtfully designed senior living residences o ering personalized care, so you and your loved ones can truly nd your joyful place - close to home.
Discover the Lincoln-Way Area’s Premier Assisted Living Community, Conveniently Located o 159th Street in Homer Glen
At Marian Village, comfort comes to life in our vibrant senior living community through spacious, modern residences and a full range of services supported by community amenities, including:
• Full-service dining in an elegant dining roomwith three chef-prepared meals daily
• Engaging lifestyle with inviting gathering spaces, library, chapel and activity areas
• Wellness-focused amenities including fitness center, on-site physician offices and salon services
• Beautiful outdoor spaces with landscaped courtyards, walking paths and gardens
Start Your Next Chapter
Visit marianvillage.org or call 708 734 6348 to learn more.


Camp Manitoqua Launches Capital Campaign
Camp Manitoqua and Retreat Center, located in Frankfort, IL, serves guests by creating a welcoming setting and meaningful programs for retreating, camping, and outdoor education. The Camp helps people grow in their faith through experiences that foster personal growth and community. Now, Camp Manitoqua is launching a capital campaign to enhance its 100 wooded acres and programs, better serving generations to come. See www.manitoqua.org for details.

Ancient Roots to Host Weekly Qi Gong and Meditation Classes
Ancient Roots will offer outdoor Qi Gong and meditation classes on Friday evenings at 7:30 p.m. throughout the summer and into fall, weather permitting. Each 45-minute session will be held on the east side of the field behind the Patriot Center. Practiced outdoors for centuries, Qi Gong promotes harmony with nature and overall well-being. Space is limited to 25 participants. To reserve your spot, call 815-693-0810.

Body Fountain Unveils New Service
Body Fountain is excited to announce a new beauty service offering: lash clusters and lash strips. Designed to give clients the look of lash extensions without causing damage to natural lashes, the new service provides a lightweight, comfortable alternative for everyday wear or special occasions. The service addition reflects Body Fountain’s continued commitment to offering innovative beauty and self-care services that help clients look and feel their best.

Associated Orthodontists Announces 2026 Scholarship Winners
Associated Orthodontists would like to congratulate their 2026 scholarship winners: Scott Dunn and Martin Dwyer from Lincoln-Way West, Zachary Gruba from Romeoville, Jacob Meyer from Manteno, Brooke Richter from Plainfield, and Sophie Sanders from Morris!

Randi Lynn Quigley Representing Putman Custom Builders
Randi Lynn Quigley is proud to represent Putman Custom Builders and their selection of build-to-suit opportunities. Prospective homeowners are invited to tour the model home, explore available floor plans, and discover the benefits of a custom-built space. Call or text at 708-446-0328 to learn more or schedule a private tour.

You can always count on some unpredictability. Trust our consultants to give you the stable guidance that comes from experience. Call or visit us today.
David Zaycek
Mokena Branch
19214 S. LaGrange Rd. Mokena, IL 60448
708-326-6080
schwab.com/mokena






















Explore... Quick Getaways
ARTICLE BY NICOLE SWANBERG WRIGHT
Summer is the season for adventure. Whether that means soaring through the treetops on a zipline, discovering a hidden hiking trail, relaxing on a sun-soaked beach, or exploring a new town, memorable experiences are often found just beyond the familiar.


Kristen Andretich
with Magical Park Vacations
(@MAGICALTAKRISTEN)
“Some of the most memorable vacations I've helped plan for families started as a long weekend. A few days at Walt Disney World. A short Disney cruise. A few days at Disney’s Aulani while soaking in the beauty of Hawaii. What families discover almost every time is that a taste of this kind of travel only opens the door wider. Start with that 3-4 night trip. But don't be surprised when you start dreaming bigger.”
www.southernillinois tourism.org
(@DO.SOILL)
Whether you're a foodie, nature lover, craft beer fan, or casual adventurer, Shawnee National Forest has something for everyone. Just five hours from Chicagoland, you can trade suburbs for rolling hills, trees, and star-filled skies. Go glamping in a yurt or camp at one of the dozen campgrounds, then explore the Shawnee Wine Trail, Garden of the Gods, Cedar Lake, and Makanda Boardwalk. Catch live music at The Varsity Center, kayak the many lakes, shop boutiques, and unwind in Southern Illinois.
In this Explore issue, Lincolnway City Lifestyle invites you to embrace the spirit of discovery and make the most of the season ahead. Adventure doesn’t have to mean crossing oceans or checking off a bucket-list destination — sometimes it’s as simple as trying a new activity, taking a spontaneous weekend road trip, or seeing a familiar place through fresh eyes. Summer offers endless opportunities to step outside, unplug from routine, and create lasting memories with the people who matter most. Whether you’re drawn to scenic hiking trails, nights
Escape to Hocking Hills, Ohio, for a family getaway that blends outdoor adventure with upscale comfort. Just about a 6-to-7-hour drive from Chicagoland, the region offers stunning waterfalls, dramatic rock formations, and scenic hiking trails. Explore Old Man’s Cave, Ash Cave, and Cedar Falls, then unwind in a luxury cabin with hot tubs and wooded views. Families can enjoy ziplining, canoeing, horseback riding, and stargazing, making Hocking Hills an unforgettable Midwestern retreat for all ages, year round fun.
Charlene Recio
with Marvelous Mouse Travels
“Lincolnway area residents are fortunate to have easy access to several fantastic domestic long weekend destinations. A short flight can have you strolling through Times Square, taking in a Broadway show, or enjoying world-class dining in New York City. For travelers seeking mountain views and outdoor adventure, Gatlinburg offers hiking, scenic drives, and cozy cabin retreats in the Great Smoky Mountains. My favorite destination, Key West, delivers laid-back island vibes, waterfront dining, and spectacular sunsets, all without needing a passport.”
spent stargazing under open skies, family adventures at theme parks, snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs, or simply savoring a slower pace in a beautiful setting, there’s something inspiring waiting to be discovered. To help spark ideas for your own summer plans, we asked two local travel experts to share some of their favorite getaway recommendations and added a few of our own. We hope these destinations inspire your next adventure — and if they do, we’d love to hear where your travels take you.


(@CHARLENEMMT)
(@MYHOCKINGHILLS)











EXPLORE... Farmers Market Finds
In an age of online shopping, self-checkout lanes, and next-day delivery, Lincolnway’s farmers markets remain one of the few places where shopping still feels personal. More than a destination for fresh produce, they serve as gathering spaces that reflect the people, businesses, and traditions that make our area unique.
What makes a farmers market so special is the sense of connection it fosters. Neighbors greet one another, families spend time together, and local business owners welcome familiar faces. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, transforming a routine errand into a shared community tradition.
Part of the appeal is the opportunity to explore. Around every corner is something new to discover, whether it’s a family farm offering seasonal produce, a baker sharing a favorite recipe, or an artisan displaying handcrafted goods. Farmers markets invite visitors to wander, browse, and uncover the stories behind the products and the individuals who make them.
For many vendors, the market provides a chance to share something created with care. Many are small business owners, hobbyists, or family-run farms offering products made with a personal touch. Unlike traditional retail stores, shoppers can speak directly with the people growing, baking, crafting, and producing the items they sell, making each purchase feel more meaningful.
Farmers markets also showcase the changing seasons. Summer produce, fresh flowers, and eventually, autumn-inspired goods, help shape an experience that feels connected to the rhythm of the year. The blend of longtime farm stands and emerging artisan vendors gives the market both a nostalgic charm and a fresh, modern energy.
At its heart, a farmers market is about more than products. It is a place where relationships are built, local entrepreneurs are supported, and community comes together. In a fast-paced world, farmers markets offer something increasingly valuable: an opportunity to slow down, connect with others, and celebrate the people and businesses that make a community like ours thrive.
ARTICLE BY KENADEE BERRY | PHOTOGRAPHY BY KENADEE BERRY & JEAN LACHAT

JEANINE BAKES
Made with gluten-free ingredients, these handcrafted macarons come in a variety of flavors, making them perfect for any occasion.
KLIMA CANDLE COMPANY
Hand-poured in New Lenox using 100% Midwestgrown soy wax, these candles offer clean, inviting scents free of unnecessary additives.


AVOCADO THEORY
Made with nutrient-rich avocado oil, these natural products bring the benefits of avocado to your kitchen, hair, and skincare routine.

Beyond the produce stands, the market is filled with artisan creations and unique treasures that reflect the personality of our community. From handmade products to thoughtfully crafted everyday essentials, these offerings celebrate the talent, passion, and entrepreneurial spirit found throughout the Lincolnway area. These standout finds were chosen because they feel uniquely connected to Lincolnway's character and the people who make it special.
Together, they create a shopping experience that blends creativity, craftsmanship, and hometown charm, bringing residents back season after season.
- Kenadee Berry
PLOVARA
Plant-based dips, oils, and snacks crafted with fresh ingredients and without seed oils, artificial flavors, or preservatives.
BURN & BLOOM COMPANY
Homegrown blooms and floral designs crafted to bring joy and leave a lasting impression.



STOUB FAMILY FARMS
Bring home popcorn grown, harvested, and packed on a local family farm, with four delicious varieties to enjoy year-round.

GRACIE PIE APOTHECARY
Handcrafted products made with local goat's milk, including soaps, scrubs, hair care, serums, and skincare for all skin types.
CHEF HEATLEY’S HOT PEPPER FARM
Creates artisan hot sauces made with fresh, highquality ingredients and heat levels for every taste.

PLOT TWIST BOOKS
Explore a charming mobile bookstore filled with new and used books, plus book-themed gifts like bookmarks, stickers, tote bags, and mugs.






Lindsay Lohrens & Haley Griglione









Cell-in-Cell Construction: The Duette Architella line features a revolutionary honeycombwithin-a-honeycomb design. This creates multiple layers of fabric and air pockets, offering up to three times the insulation of single-cell designs.
Seasonal Temperature Control: During summer, they can reduce unwanted solar heat by up to 80%. In the winter, they can cut heat loss through your windows by 40% to 45%.
We’ve all heard the news: utility rates are jumping 8.5% this summer, but don’t sweat it!





I can do more than make your home beautiful, I will also help you save on energy bills!


EXPLORE... The Next CHAPTER
ARTICLE BY NICOLE SWANBERG WRIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRIS MORAN
For many families, the search for senior living begins during a season of uncertainty. A hospital stay, growing safety concerns at home, or the increasing demands of caregiving can quickly turn future planning into an urgent and emotional decision. In those moments, families are often left navigating unfamiliar terminology, financial considerations, and fear of making the wrong choice.
Nearly 1 in 5 Americans serve as a family caregiver to loved ones. Research also shows that daughters are more likely than sons to assume caregiving responsibilities, often balancing the needs of aging parents alongside careers and their own families.
That’s where Next Chapter steps in.
Serving older adults and families throughout the south suburbs of Illinois, Next Chapter helps guide families through senior living and care options with compassion, expertise, and local insight. Founded by Lindsay Lohrens and Haley Griglione, the company combines more than 20 years of experience in real estate and the medical industry.
As mothers, wives, sisters, granddaughters, and friends, the two understand firsthand the emotional weight that often comes with caring for aging loved ones. Living with their families in Frankfort, Lindsay and Haley, built the company around empathy, integrity, and a commitment to supporting the local community.
At the heart of their work is serving as senior living experts — trusted guides who help older adults and their families better understand options including independent living, assisted living, and memory care.
Independent living offers active older adults a maintenance-free lifestyle with opportunities for social connection and convenience services. Assisted living provides additional support with daily activities such as medication management, meals, and personal care while still encouraging independence. Memory care communities offer specialized support and secure environments for individuals living with Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia.
For many families, simply understanding the differences between these options can ease stress and uncertainty. But Next Chapter’s role extends far beyond explaining terminology.
“We start by simplifying what often feels like an overwhelming and emotional decision into clear, manageable steps,” the team explains. “Most families are trying to make sense of medical needs, finances, emotions, and logistics all at once. Our role is to bring structure, clarify options, narrow choices based on real needs, and walk alongside them through each decision.”
The company believes aging is not an ending point, but a new chapter shaped by evolving needs, preferences, and opportunities. One of the biggest misconceptions they encounter is the belief that senior living means losing independence. In reality, many clients discover the opposite.
One client who reluctantly transitioned to a senior living community after a hospital stay quickly found herself reconnecting socially through daily activities, games, and community events. Equally meaningful was the shift for her family, whose adult

children were able to return to being sons and daughters instead of full-time caregivers.
“People are frequently surprised by how much freedom comes from simplifying their environment,” the team says.
Rather than focusing solely on budget or location, Next Chapter personalizes recommendations by considering health needs, personality, routines, social preferences, and overall quality of life. They also encourage families to begin conversations early, before a crisis forces rushed decisions.
“Gather information early, tour options casually, and have open conversations with family about values and preferences, not just logistics,” they advise. “Focus less on what may be changing and more on what could be gained: safety, community, support, and peace of mind.”
Most importantly, Next Chapter wants families to know they do not have to navigate the process alone. Their free service offers one trusted point of contact to provide support, clarity, and guidance every step of the way.














Explore... With Confidence

Summer has a way of inviting people to say yes: yes to road trips, weekend getaways, backyard projects, spontaneous adventures, and long-awaited life changes. But true freedom to explore often comes from something less visible: feeling prepared for whatever life may bring.
That sense of confidence, according to experts at the Kathy Miller/Roger Kruel State Farm Agency, starts with protecting the things that matter most so families can spend less time worrying and more time living.
Whether it’s traveling more frequently, moving into a new home, or navigating major milestones, people often overlook the practical details that create long-term peace of mind. Liability protection, safeguarding income, and reviewing coverage for homes, vehicles, and recreational equipment are all easy to forget during busy seasons of life — until they’re suddenly needed.
That preparation is becoming increasingly important. According to the National Centers for Environmental Information, the United States has experienced an average of 18 to 23 billion-dollar weather and climate disasters each year over the past five years. Together, those events have caused
more than $740 billion in damages, averaging roughly $150 billion in costs annually. As severe weather and other unexpected disruptions become more common, many families are taking a closer look at whether they are prepared for the unexpected.
“Peace of mind is when you see something on the news — a storm, a fire, a flooded basement — and you can honestly say, ‘We’re covered for that,’” says Ami Patel, Accounts Manager at the Kathy Miller/Roger Kruel State Farm Agency. “When the answer is yes, everyone sleeps a little better.”
The conversation around protection has evolved in recent years. It’s no longer simply viewed as a necessary expense, but as a way to preserve the life families have worked hard to build. Ami says many people underestimate how quickly an unexpected event can disrupt future plans, income, or financial stability.
As summer activity ramps up, now is a good time to pause and ask a simple question: if the unexpected happened, would your family feel prepared?
Because peace of mind may be one of the most valuable things packed for the journey ahead.

FIDUCIARY FINANCIAL GUIDANCE
As we celebrate the freedoms and opportunities that make our country great, it's also a fitting time to reflect on financial independence. In a world where financial matters can feel overwhelming, Dowling Financial serves as a trusted partner, helping families navigate retirement, tax, estate, and risk management planning. With a holistic approach and a focus on each client's goals, Joe helps create a clear path toward long-term success and peace.




through both virtual and in-person therapy sessions. We’re committed to walking alongside you, and empowering your journey forward.
ARTICLE BY KALI KASPRZYK
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
MAKEUP BY MIKAYLA CRANE
The 10% Target Mindset
Jen Cohen ON THE PRACTICE OF ASKING FOR WHAT YOU WANT
Winnipeg in the winter, and a 17-year-old waits 45 minutes in the cold for Keanu Reeves. Her fingers are numb. She is not there for an autograph. She is there to ask him to appear in her audition tape for MuchMusic, Canada’s MTV. When he finally agrees, she writes her number on a gum wrapper with a borrowed lip liner.
He calls days later.
That 17-year-old was Jen Cohen — fitness expert, host of the Habits & Hustle podcast, and best-selling author. She has built a career on the premise her frostbitten afternoon proved. She calls the practice the 10% Target: 10 attempts at whatever you want most in life.
The premise is simple. Most people never make one attempt. Almost nobody makes two. The math works in favor of the person who keeps going.
The top-rated Habits & Hustle podcast has logged hundreds of conversations with high performers and the people who study what the body does to the mind. Her TEDx talk, The Secret to Getting Anything You Want in Life, has traveled widely inside Fortune 500 sales-training rooms. On the Share the Lifestyle podcast, Cohen sits down to share the working rules that are the foundation of her latest book, Bigger, Better, Bolder.
“You have to be the CEO of your own life.”
FEATURING JEN COHEN
Discover the full 10% Target Mindset framework.


1 2
MAKE TEN ATTEMPTS
The door opens, or another door does. The unmade attempt and the refused one leave you in the same place — except one of them teaches you something.
STACK THE DECK
Cohen frames her habits as a wager: How do I stack the deck so I win more than I lose? The workout happens first, and the food decisions follow. The email follow-up gets sent, and the answer arrives. The choices compound in a single direction.
3
DISCIPLINE IS A PRACTICED SKILL, NOT AN INHERITANCE
No one is born with it. The people who look disciplined are running a routine they have rehearsed long enough that it no longer feels like effort. The reps are the skill. Miss them, and the skill fades, the same as any other.
4
SELF-TALK ONLY WORKS WHEN THE BODY BACKS IT UP
Confidence does not arrive by repeating the word. It arrives after the body has done the thing — the workout finished, the cold walk endured, the email sent. The mind takes its cues from what the body proves it can do. Talk follows action, not the other way around.
5
NEVER MISS A MONDAY
The first decision sets the slope of the rest. Skip the Monday workout, and the rest of the week tends to follow. Hold the line on Monday, and the slope tilts the other way.



RESULTS in as little as SIX MONTHS
Proven Invisalign® Aligners | FREE Consultations
0% Interest Payment Plans







EXPLORE...THE STORY BENEATH THE BRAND
HOW PRECISION SOCIAL HELPS BRANDS EARN ATTENTION
ARTICLE BY KENADEE BERRY
The creation of Precision Social began with a sense of frustration. At a time when most companies relied on interruptive marketing, the founders saw a different path forward. They believed marketing should feel like an invitation, not an intrusion. Instead of asking how to get in front of people, they focused on how to create something people would genuinely want to engage with: content that educates, entertains, and provides value.
With that mindset, Precision Social set out to help brands adapt, shifting away from transactional tactics and toward something more human, intentional, and community-driven.

That philosophy begins with curiosity. “To explore, you first have to know where to look,” explains Chase Pickett, co-founder of Precision Social. Every client relationship starts with a kickoff meeting, a 90-minute discussion designed to uncover the story behind the business. “We walk into that meeting with curious minds and a legitimate yearning to know more about the brand we’re representing and the people who run it.”
Those conversations create the foundation for what the team calls “controlled creativity,” allowing them to explore new concepts while staying authentic to each client. The goal is not simply to create content but to help businesses see marketing through a different lens.
“The phrase brand building comes to mind,” says Chase. “Customers, employees, opportunities all start gravitating toward you when you build the brand.” Rather than treating marketing as a tool to use only when more customers are needed, Precision Social focuses on building brands that create lasting value. As Chase puts it, “Building a strong brand is total self-reliance.”
That approach came to life through the company’s partnership with Fuller’s Car Wash, a family-owned business that has served Chicagoland since 1945. For years, Fuller’s had run a promotion called “Dirtiest Car on the Lot,” where one lucky attendee at a Joliet Jackhammers game would receive a free car wash or detail. It was simple, community-driven, and fun. Precision Social saw an opportunity to expand that idea beyond the ballpark and reimagine it for social media.


The concept evolved into a recurring content series in which Fuller’s employees surprise people in everyday settings with free car washes and detailing services while capturing their genuine reactions on camera. What began as a local promotion became a powerful storytelling vehicle, generating hundreds of thousands of organic views in just a few months.
The success of Fuller’s Car Wash illustrates a larger principle: when marketing is rooted in care and community, people choose to engage. It becomes something they want to watch, share, and return to rather than something they actively avoid.
Today, Precision Social remains focused on helping businesses uncover and share the stories already embedded within their brands. “We love a good story, and most people have one, they just don’t know it,” says Chase. “We work our magic to tell it in a way that touches the emotional center of the viewer.” By leading with curiosity, storytelling, and respect for authentic connection, the company continues to demonstrate that meaningful marketing is not about capturing attention, it’s about earning it.

events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
JULY 8TH
IPO Summer Concert Series at OFCC
Olympia Fields Country Club | 6:00 PM
Relax with summer evenings of music with the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra. Doors open 6 PM, with music at 6:30 PM. Enjoy the Bobby Broom Jazz Trio on July 8 and Broadway musicals reimagined via string quartet on July 22. Tickets are $40 and include one beverage, pre-concert light bites, admission, and meet-and-greet. Summer concert packages are also available at www.ipomusic.org.
JULY 11TH
American Big Rig Racing
Dirt Oval 66 | 7:00 PM
Semi trucks on the Dirt Oval! American Big Rig Racing roars into Route 66 for the first time ever! Gates open at 4 PM with showtime starting at 7 PM. Tickets and more info available at www.dirtoval66.com.
JULY 11TH
Frankfort Bluegrass Festival
Breidert Green in Frankfort | 9:00 AM
The Frankfort Bluegrass Festival is an annual celebration of traditional and contemporary bluegrass music held in the charming downtown district of Frankfort. Each summer, the festival brings together talented regional and national performers who fill the streets with lively sounds. Visitors enjoy live concerts, browse vendors, and sample food while experiencing the welcoming, small-town atmosphere that Frankfort is known for.
JULY 18TH
Manhattan's Young Entrepreneurs Market
Manhattan Village Hall | 10:00 AM
Calling all young entrepreneurs! Here's your chance to showcase your creativity and business skills at Manhattan's Young Entrepreneurs Market! This event is designed for kids 17 and under who want to take the leap into the world of business, offering a platform to display their products and ideas. Contact kreinke@villageofmanhattan.org for more information.
JULY 18TH
Food Fight: Taco Fest
New Lenox Village Commons | 11:00 AM
Local restaurants and food trucks have been invited to put up their best taco - traditional, unique, basic, gourmet, you name it - at Food Fight: Taco Fest this summer! Attendees will be encouraged to try as many tacos as possible and then vote for their favorite.
JULY 25TH
Mokena Festa Italiana
Yunker Farm | 11:00 AM
Join us for Festa Italiana in Mokena Saturday, July 25 from 11 AM to 10 PM at Yunker Park. This special fest will feature Italian food, music, and cultural activities, including Enrico's spaghetti eating contest, a classic car show, magic show and balloon artists, and performances from School of Rock, Bottomz Up Band, and more! For more information, visit www.mokenafestaitaliana.org.


