Lincolnway, IL November 2025

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THE HEART BEHIND THE SPLASH

We are incredibly thankful for our Aqua Pools Family—the heart and soul of everything we do. From our dedicated team who brings passion and expertise to every project, to our loyal customers who trust us to create their backyard dreams, you are what makes this journey so rewarding. Your continued support, smiles, and shared summer memories inspire us every day. Thank you for being an essential part of our Aqua Pools Family!

Gathering & Giving Back

In this season of gratitude, we often find ourselves reflecting on the many blessings in our lives. Thanksgiving encourages us to slow down, embrace the present, and appreciate the people and moments that bring us joy.

Our November issue is dedicated to stories of gathering, giving back, and celebrating the people and organizations that make Lincolnway such a special place. We’re endlessly thankful for our advertising partners, whose support allows us to bring inspiring stories to your doorstep/email box each month, and for the readers who make it all worthwhile.

As we prepare to gather with loved ones, let’s take a moment to reflect on what truly brings meaning to our lives. For our family, it's celebrating grandchild #11 coming to us in January...beyond grateful! This holiday season, may we find contentment not in possessions or accolades but in the connections we nurture and the good we do for others. And speaking of others, please make sure to see our article on City Lifestyle's National Giving Campaign - Hope Begins With Youwhich offers you a chance to truly do good for others.

Wishing you and your family a season of gratitude. All the best,

JANET VIANE, PUBLISHER

In our "From Coffee to Cocktails" article in the October issue, the owner's son was incorrectly identified as Tim Gerner. His correct name is Jonathan Tough. We regret the error and extend our sincere apologies for any confusion it may have caused. Please also note a small correction to the business monthly section in October: the correct organization is Freedom Hearing and Speech. We apologize for the oversight.

November 2025

PUBLISHER

Janet Viane | janet.viane@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Nicole Swanberg Wright

nicole.swanbergwright@citylifestyle.com

SOCIAL MEDIA COORDINATOR

Meg Mueller | meg@socialbutterflysocialmedia.com

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER

Jean Lachat | jean@jeanlachatphotography.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

NOVEMBER 2025

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: Ballet 5:8 presented bilingual performances, discussions, and workshops tied to The House on Mango Street. 2: The team from Charles Schwab (Mokena) pictured with magazine Publisher Janet Viane at the launch party. 3: Harry D’Ercole (Enrico’s) hosted the Lincolnway City Lifestyle launch party at his restaurant. Thanks Harry! 4: The team from Right Choice Home Care celebrated at the Lincolnway City Lifestyle launch party! 5: Julie Gardner (Associated Orthodontists) pictured with Peggy Alexa (Re/Max Group 10) at the launch party. 6: Body Fountain owner Krystal Wilson and front desk associate Nicole at the launch party. 7: Frankfort Mayor Ogle receiving game tickets during the party at Enrico’s.

Want to be seen in the magazine?

JEAN LACHAT
JEAN LACHAT JEAN LACHAT
JEAN LACHAT
JEAN LACHAT
JEAN LACHAT

Marian Village Proudly Announces the

Opening of

Discover a new chapter in compassionate care at Ancora Memory Care, now open at Marian Village in Homer Glen. This thoughtfully designed neighborhood is redefining Alzheimer’s and dementia care— restoring hope, happiness, and peace of mind to residents and their families. By embracing each resident’s unique needs and abilities, Ancora Memory Care ensures they continue to live with purpose, dignity, and security.

The Ancora Memory Care neighborhood features:

• Ancora Integrated Wellness Approach

• Highly trained and compassionate care team

• Spacious studio apartments

• Inviting living spaces, open kitchen and dining concept

• Secure outdoor space

Join us in celebrating a new era of memory care at Marian Village where innovation meets heartfelt compassion.

Schedule a personal tour or for more information call 708.734.6348 or email adoherty@franciscancommunities.org

A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES

Ballet 5:8 Drives Art in Orland Park

Jeremy Slager, Executive Director of Ballet 5:8, has been appointed to the Commission charged with developing a new walkable arts district in Orland Park. Ballet 5:8 has also received a prestigious National Endowment for the Humanities grant to create curriculum and educational resources around The Curious Life of Edgar Allan Poe, premiering at the Harris Theater April 2026. To unlock the federal funds, the organization must raise $25,000 in matching support. Learn more at www.ballet58.org/give

by Ballet 5:8

Photography

Body Fountain Voted #1 for Massage

Body Fountain is pleased to announce they have won Best Massage for the fifth year in a row in Southland’s Best! Congratulations! Body Fountain also launched a new website that offers a streamlined navigation and a refreshed design.

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.

708-326-6080

schwab.com/mokena

Photography by Lincolnway City Lifestyle

Thankful for Movement

How Body Fountain Helps Lincolnway Stay Well

For many, gratitude in November centers on family gatherings, holiday traditions, and warm meals around the table. But for Krystal Wilson, owner of Body Fountain in Mokena, there’s another gift to be thankful for: movement.

“Massage can help keep bodies feeling and performing years younger by reducing muscle tension,” she explains. “When stiffness decreases, joints move more freely, circulation improves, and oxygen and nutrients flow more easily through the body. That’s how we keep people moving well— and moving longer.”

Krystal sees the impact of modern lifestyles every day. Hours spent sitting at desks often lead to tight hamstrings and low back pain, while rounded shoulders from constant use of the chest and front shoulder muscles can create numbness and tension that extend all the way into the hands. “We rarely balance that out with activities that strengthen our back muscles,” she notes. “Massage helps correct those imbalances before they turn into chronic problems.”

That’s why she encourages clients to think of massage not only as recovery, but as preventive care. “I always say, let us undo what you do to yourself,” Krystal says with a laugh. “Just like your car needs an oil change, your body needs maintenance. Routine massage reduces tension, minimizes wear and tear, and keeps your body moving the way it’s supposed to.”

The benefits extend beyond mobility. Massage therapy is also a powerful antidote to stress, helping regulate the hormones that influence mood, sleep, and even connection with others. “When we’re stressed, cortisol runs high. We don’t sleep well, we hold on to anger, and our muscles tighten,” Wilson explains. “Massage enables the release of serotonin, dopamine, and oxytocin. Those are the hormones of joy, motivation, and bonding. Receiving a massage really can improve your appetite, your mood, and your ability to love life.”

Wilson has seen firsthand how transformative massage can be. One client came in struggling with frozen shoulder, unable to dress themselves or lift their arm overhead without excruciating pain. “Through targeted massage, hot stones, and cupping, we were able to reduce stiffness and restore full movement,” she recalls. “They didn’t need medication or surgery as their doctor had suggested. The human body wants to repair itself, sometimes it just needs the right help.”

That sense of restoration extends to the entire Body Fountain community. What began as a passion for healing has grown into a thriving wellness center with 34 employees,

each dedicated to helping clients leave lighter, looser, and happier than when they arrived. “I’m thankful not only for the family we’ve created among our staff, but for the joy we get to share with our community,” Krystal says.

“Clients may walk in stressed, worn out, or in pain, but when they leave floating on a cloud, we know we’ve done our job. Life is hard; rejoicing in the comforting hands of our therapists just makes life better.”

This season of thankfulness, Krystal encourages everyone to pause and honor the everyday miracle of movement. “Being able to get out of bed, reach for a glass, or hug your child without pain - that’s something to be grateful for,” she says. And at Body Fountain, helping people rediscover that gratitude is at the heart of everything they do.

CELEBRATING OUR POLICE DOGS

BEYOND THE BLUE

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JEAN LACHAT

Across Lincolnway, a quiet but powerful partnership is on patrol — one built on loyalty, dedication, and four paws. The K-9 units of Mokena, New Lenox, Manhattan, and Frankfort

Though new to the force, Kong lives with Criscione full-time and has his own room and fenced yard at home. “He’s not just a tool, he’s a partner. Together, we’re helping remove nar-

“BEING HER HANDLER IS THE MOST REWARDING ASSIGNMENT I’VE EVER HAD" - CANDANCE GUIDRY

aren’t just enhancing public safety. they’re deepening connections between departments and the people they serve. This Thanksgiving season, we take a moment to celebrate these remarkable teams and the gratitude that drives them.

For Officer Richard Criscione of the Mokena Police Department, becoming the village’s first K-9 Handler is more than a career milestone: it’s a calling. His partner, Kong, is a black German Shepherd from the Czech Republic. At just under two-years-old, Kong has already undergone intense training in narcotics detection, tracking, and article searches.

“Our typical day starts with training,” says Criscione, who recently completed the K-9 academy with Kong. “We go out to the forest preserve to track, then do narcotics detection drills with vehicles, lockers, or rooms. We always end with obedience.”

cotics from the streets and potentially saving lives.”

Criscione credits the launch of Mokena’s K-9 program to the support of the Will County State’s Attorney James W. Glasgow. “I’m thankful to be chosen for this role. Kong and I are putting in the work so that when we’re needed, we’re ready.”

Officer Candace Guidry of the New Lenox Police Department describes her K-9 partner, Harlie, as more than a working dog — “She’s my shadow, my best friend, and my therapist on four legs.”

Harlie, a two-year-old yellow Labrador Retriever, began her career as a shed hunting dog in Indiana before being paired with Guidry. The two completed a six-week police K-9 course and now log at least 16 hours of training each month to maintain certification in narcotics detection, tracking, and evidence recovery.

Harlie is the only K-9 Officer in New Lenox and plays a multi-faceted role. Whether tracking missing persons, searching parcels, or visiting schools, her impact goes far beyond crime-fighting. “She brings joy wherever she goes,” says Guidry. “She also helps our Officers decompress after stressful shifts.”

Off-duty, Harlie lives a life full of trail walks, farmer’s markets, and hot dogs. “Being her Handler is the most rewarding assignment I’ve ever had,” Guidry adds. “I’m thankful every day to have her by my side.”

For Chief Ryan Gulli of the Village of Manhattan Police Department, leadership takes on a unique dimension: he not only manages the department, but also serves as Handler to Apollo, a German Shorthaired Pointer born in Hungary.

“Every day starts with training,” says Gulli. “Then Apollo gets some downtime before we hit the road. He roams the department when we’re not responding to calls.”

Trained in narcotics detection, article recovery, and tracking, Apollo proved his skills early on. “Just two shifts after returning from training, he tracked and helped apprehend a retail theft suspect. That was our first real call, and he nailed it.”

Apollo is also Manhattan’s first-ever K-9. “His presence elevates every part of our department,” Gulli reflects. “He’s a deterrent, a crime fighter, and a bridge to the community. At home, he’s family, especially with my daughters. He knows when someone needs comfort.”

"APOLLO IS FAMILY AND MY MOST TRUSTED PARTNER."— RYAN GULLI

Officer Rafal Krupa and K-9 Pax are the newest addition to the Frankfort Police Department. Pax, a black Labrador Retriever, graduated from an 8-week academy in July 2025, trained in narcotics detection, tracking, article searches, and obedience.

“Every shift starts with training,” says Krupa. “Then we’re ready to respond to calls where Pax’s nose can make a difference.”

Pax, like his fellow K-9s, lives with his Handler and enjoys down time with his “two pit bull brothers.” But his impact on duty is profound. “He can cover large areas quickly and detect concealed threats. He’s a deterrent and a valuable resource in safety and community outreach.”

For Krupa, the partnership is personal. “Pax is more than a partner. He’s my best friend.”

These K-9 teams are redefining what it means to serve. They’re not only making our streets safer, but also bringing comfort, compassion, and connection, one paw print at a time.

As we give thanks this season, we recognize the dedication of Officers Criscione, Guidry, Gulli, and Krupa, and of course, their incredible K-9 partners: Kong, Harlie, Apollo, and Pax. Together, they embody the spirit of service and the silent strength of loyalty that can’t be measured, only felt.

Ready, Set, Shine

Holiday Hosting Tips from Cynthia’s Cleaning Service

The holidays are a season of warmth, joy, and connection, but they can also bring stress when preparing your home for guests. Sharon Newman of Cynthia’s Cleaning Service offers advice to help families create a clean, welcoming space without losing the spirit of the season.

“It always starts with creating a feeling,” Sharon says. “The holidays are about warmth, so focus first on the spaces guests notice right when they enter. Tidy the entryway, add a wreath, or refresh the welcome mat; it sets the tone before anyone even steps inside.”

Next, she emphasizes the heart of the home: the living and dining areas. “These are where laughter and memories happen. Giving them a deep clean make decorating and entertaining effortless. And when there’s family coming over, don’t hesitate to hire a professional cleaning company, it can be a lifesaver for handling the mess!”

Timing is key. Sharon recommends starting at least two weeks before the big

day, breaking cleaning into manageable stages. “By spacing it out, you avoid the holiday rush and get to enjoy the process. The final days are just about small touchups and adding festive details.”

For last-minute touch-ups, Sharon recommends the five-minute sweep: gather clutter, wipe counters and tables, light a candle, and ensure seating and flow are comfortable. “These small touches help guests settle in, feel cared for, and enjoy the celebration.”

This season, Sharon is grateful for the trust her clients place in Cynthia’s Cleaning Service. “Every time a family opens their door to us, they’re saying, ‘Come into our space, help us care for it.’

We see our role as more than a service; we’re part of creating spaces where love, comfort, and connection can thrive.”

With thoughtful preparation and a few expert tips, Sharon reminds hosts that the holidays are about people, not perfection, and a well-prepared home helps memories last long after the season ends.

The Quiet Heroes: Nurses

At Lewis University, nursing is more than a career path: it’s a calling to serve, heal, and bring comfort during life’s most vulnerable moments. This spirit of compassion and resilience shines through in the voices of faculty and students alike, who embody the quiet heroism that defines the profession.

For Dr. Pam Taylor, Chair of the Department of Nursing, watching students choose this path inspires deep hope. “Seeing so many students choose to begin or return to nursing at this time fills me with a deep sense of pride and reassurance for the future of healthcare,” she says. “To see so many students choosing this path tells me the values of caring, service, and resilience are still drawing people to the profession.”

Dr. Daisy Sherry, Interim Dean of the College of Nursing and Health Sciences, encourages those considering the profession to seek perspective directly from nurses. “Talking to a nurse and even observing what a nurse does would shed some light on ‘if they’re cut out for it,’” she explains. “It is those that recognize early the responsibility nurses carry that tend to thrive in this career.”

Lewis’s program stands out for its balance of technical mastery and compassionate care. “Our faculty uphold the mission of serving a diverse community, especially those ‘in the peripheries,’” Sherry says. “Students practice not only hands-on skills but also holistic care that addresses physical, mental, social, spiritual, and emotional health. They participate in simulations, role play, and clinical rotations that allow their compassion to shine.”

Pam emphasizes the breadth of these clinical experiences. “Lewis has a large and diverse network of clinical sites. Students rotate through many specializations, from fundamentals and patient safety to advanced care and community health. Small clinical

sizes allow for personalized mentorship and help bridge classroom theory with real-world practice.”

That mentorship defines the culture at Lewis. “Because of our small class and clinical sizes, we are able to truly get to know our students,” she says. “This allows us to provide personalized feedback and encouragement, especially when students are facing real-life patient situations for the first time.”

The impact of this education is perhaps best expressed through the students. Guadalupe Honorato, a Bachelor of Science, Nursing student, recalls a powerful moment in the Labor and Delivery unit. “I noticed a patient was visibly anxious before a C-section. I gently held her hand, and she held on tightly in return. In that moment, I realized that providing comfort and reassurance is just as important as clinical skills. Small acts of compassion can have a profound impact.”

Guadalupe also reflects on her growth. “When I first started at Lewis, I was shy and unsure of myself. Over time, I grew more confident, disciplined, and passionate about patient-centered care. I developed resilience, adaptability, and the skills to connect with patients on a human level. I feel prepared to transition from student to registered nurse.”

For Pam, this generation of nurses embodies hope. “I see students who value compassion, advocacy, and human connection as much as clinical skill. Despite challenges, they persevere with determination and creativity. They are resilient, adaptable, and ready to collaborate across disciplines. That gives me immense hope for the future of healthcare.”

At Lewis University, nurses are more than students preparing for a profession; they are the quiet heroes of tomorrow, carrying forward a legacy of skill, compassion, and service that transforms lives.

"In that moment, I realized that providing comfort and reassurance is just as important as the clinical skills we practice. Small acts of compassion can have a profound impact."

At Kids Can Do, children receive customized-to-theirneeds therapy. After a thorough assessment, our specialized pediatric therapists create an individualized therapy strategy and support plan. Our "play with purpose" therapy sessions are designed to be fun and deliver meaningful results. Working closely with families, our team approach leads to faster progress and meaningful results.

Serving Families in the South Suburbs Since 1988 www.kidscando.org | (708) 478-5400 | info@kidscando.org 19100 S. Cresent Dr., Mokena, IL 60448

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Porch Chats & Life Lessons in Gratitude

At The Cottages of New Lenox, gratitude is more than seasonal—it’s part of daily life. From the moment you step onto the beautifully landscaped grounds and into one of the five intimate cottages, a sense of warmth, connection, and purpose is felt. Each cottage houses just 16 residents, creating a personal, community-centered environment that feels like home rather than a large senior living facility.

“Everyone here is family—from our care team to residents and their loved ones,” shares Laykyn Blackburn, Director of Sales and Marketing. The Cottages honors each resident’s life story and legacy, fostering connection through courtyard gatherings, family events, and programs that encourage purposeful engagement.

Whether it’s a veteran celebrated in Hero Hall, a resident leading the Council, or someone helping after meals, each person has a meaningful role. Personalized care plans reflect individual histories, needs, and desires, ensuring dignity and respect.

Gratitude extends to families, who are active partners in caregiving. Monthly dementia support groups, frequent celebrations, and ongoing communication reflect the team’s commitment to holistic care for residents and their loved ones.

“We are so thankful to be trusted with the care of such special individuals,” Laykyn says. “Our mission is to enhance the human spirit, and we live that every day.”

In this spirit, I sat down with three residents to hear, in their own words, what gratitude means to them and how The Cottages has helped them find joy, connection, and purpose in this stage of life.

CARYL SCHAER

CARYL, PICTURED ON THE LEFT, CAN OFTEN BE FOUND IN HER FAVORITE SPOT: ON A PORCH!

Caryl Schaer is grateful for a life surrounded by family, friends, and neighbors. “I thought I’d miss my house, but I don’t. I’m very happy here,” she shares, enjoying the porches, games, and companionship. She’s thankful to her nephew for finding a home that feels right. Reflecting on her 50+ year marriage, she offers simple advice: “Give things a chance. It can turn out nice.”

JAMES “RABBIT” HAYES NORMA BLOUNT

RABBIT, PICTURED ON THE RIGHT, LOVES ENJOYING AFTERNOON COFFEE WITH FRIENDS.

James “Rabbit” Hayes, from Arkansas, served three years in the Army, including two in Alaska. A proud father and grandfather, he treasures raising a good family. Known by his childhood nickname, he still chuckles that coworkers never knew his real name. Grateful for loved ones and daily routines, he shares simple advice for younger generations: “Do what my wife did—live clean. It made my health better.”

NORMA SHOWS OFF HER LATEST NAIL ART CREATION.

For Norma Blount, gratitude begins with family and faith. Raised in West Virginia, she fondly recalls working at her dad’s restaurant, where chili dogs with coleslaw were a favorite. After moving to Illinois with her husband, she built a life rooted in love and support. At The Cottages, she’s grateful for her son’s visits and eagerly joins activities. Her advice: “Live for the Lord. That’s always been my life.”

GRATITUDE STARTS WITH PEACE OF MIND

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EVERYONE BELONGS

On the Dance Floor

At Momentum Dance, inclusivity isn’t a buzzword— it’s the foundation of everything. Since opening the studio in 2016, owner Lauren Skiniotes has been committed to ensuring that every dancer, regardless of age, ability, size, or experience level, has a place to belong.

“Inclusion has always been at the forefront of our minds and hearts,” Lauren shares. “Adapting our space, teaching styles, and performances to include

dancers of all abilities doesn’t just benefit those students, it enriches the entire community.”

That spirit of belonging begins with conversation. Before a student enters the studio, Lauren and her team connect with parents or caregivers to understand each dancer’s needs, goals, and expectations. Some students are looking for technical training, while others come for social connection or simply to try something new. From there, the studio tailors

support, whether that means one-on-one assistance, adaptive classes for dancers using mobility aids, or technique lessons emphasizing stability, coordination, and strength. No matter the class, fun and confidence are always central.

Lauren acknowledges that not every dancer has experienced such welcome. “Unfortunately, the dance world can be full of cliques and exclusivity,” she says. “We’ve met many students who came to us feeling overlooked, judged, or even bullied in previous programs. Everyone wants to feel considered and safe. Here, they can light up, rediscover their joy for dance, and find community.”

Momentum’s mission extends beyond movement. Dance is celebrated as both a powerful art form and a tool for mental and physical health. “Movement is the bedrock of wellness,” Lauren explains. “When you add community, music, and opportunities for growth, you have a recipe for a joyous life.”

Gratitude also plays a central role. Whether it’s dancers thanking their teachers at the end of class, appreciating their own bodies’ progress, or celebrating peers’ achievements, thankfulness is woven into every rehearsal and performance. Momentum extends that gratitude to parents and caregivers, offering appreciation events and recognizing their vital role in helping dancers thrive.

Reflecting on nearly a decade of Momentum, Lauren’s voice fills with pride and warmth. “What stands out most is the opportunity to witness transformation, seeing hesitant beginners grow into expressive, passionate artists. I’m endlessly grateful for our dedicated team of educators and for the trust families place in us. Dance is bigger than technique; it’s about connection, expression, and leaving students with something lasting in their hearts.”

At Momentum, the message is simple yet profound: everyone truly belongs on the dance floor.

H O P E

with YOU

The holidays have a way of calling us back to what matters most—faith, family, compassion, and the quiet but powerful act of giving. As lights go up and calendars fill, there are still many who sit in silence, carrying burdens too heavy to bear alone. But what if this season, you could be the spark that changes everything for someone else?

The founders of City Lifestyle, through their private foundation, are once again launching its annual Christmas Giving Campaign—a heartfelt effort to seek out and support individuals and families who have quietly fallen through the cracks. The mission is simple: to bring light, dignity, and hope to those who need it most.

Since its beginning just four years ago, this initiative has grown from a humble idea into a life-changing movement. Last Christmas alone, more than 200 families across the country received unexpected support—financial relief, but also something even more powerful.

“We don’t just send checks,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”

Together with City Lifestyle President Matthew Perry, Steven has helped shape this into a tradition that goes far beyond charity. “This is about community,” Matthew adds. “We believe we’ve been blessed, so now we get to be a blessing.”

Every story begins with a nomination. Often, it’s a neighbor, coworker, friend, or teacher—someone who’s been quietly carrying too much for too long. One past recipient, after receiving unexpected support during a time of deep personal struggle, wrote:

SCAN TO NOMINATE

“We send a message: You are seen. You are loved. And you are not forgotten.”

“Beyond the very practical solution of receiving funds to fix my car, this thing you guys worked together to do is bigger than that. I carry the Christmas card you sent in my purse. When things get really hard, I pull it out and remember what it felt like to be seen. That card represents hope— that change for the better is possible. I’m not sure how many people get to carry hope around in their purse. But I do.”

Another wrote in after her husband was diagnosed with aggressive brain cancer and unable to work:

“This support has blessed our family not only financially, but emotionally and spiritually as we trust God to meet our needs throughout this difficult time. Thank you to our anonymous friend and to your foundation. What a joy and gift to be part of God’s family!”

Each year brings countless stories like these—real lives touched by simple acts of kindness. Some use the funds to pay overdue bills, others to afford groceries, medication, or repairs. But no matter the circumstance, the impact is the same: hope is restored.

This season, you have the opportunity to be part of that. The campaign is now open to nominations—completely confidential and prayerfully considered. Whether it’s someone battling illness, facing unemployment, or just in need of a helping hand, you can bring them a moment of grace that will ripple far beyond Christmas morning.

“Knowing my mom was chosen filled my heart with indescribable joy,” said another past recipient. “Your generosity doesn’t just brighten her life; it inspires hope and faith in all of us. It enables her to stay in her home and get back on her feet.”

Nominations are open from November 1st to December 5th, 2025. To submit someone you know, simply scan the QR code or visit @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the nomination form in the bio.

This holiday season, let’s give more than gifts. Let’s give each other the gift of being seen. Because sometimes, the smallest gesture becomes someone’s greatest miracle.

To nominate someone in need, visit: KingdomBuildingFoundation.org or scan the QR code.

NOVEMBER 19TH

Secure Your Legacy: Learn Essentials of Estate Planning Online | 11:30 AM

Join Murray & Regan Law for a free webinar to discover how to protect your assets, ensure your wishes are honored, and secure a brighter future for your loved ones. Register online at www.murrayreganlaw.com/ estate-planning-101-webinar.

NOVEMBER 22ND

NIGHT MOVES: The Planets, E.T. and Star Trek Center for Performing Arts at Governors State University | 3:00 PM

Experience Star Trek Through The Years as the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra takes you on an auditory adventure, joined by John Williams’ E.T. Adventures on Earth and Holst’s The Planets. With stunning visuals by Adrian Wyard, this cosmic journey is truly out of this world. Tickets available at www.ipomusic.org.

DECEMBER 6TH

Ballet 5:8:

Beyond the Nutcracker

Lincoln-Way North Performing Arts Center | 2:00 PM

Embark on a journey through time to discover the true meaning of Christmas. Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra joins Ballet 5:8 to present Tchaikovsky’s score on December 13 at 2 and 7 p.m., and December 14 at 3 p.m. Performances with recorded score December 6 at 2 and 7 p.m., and December 7 at 3 p.m. For tickets, visit www.ballet58.org.

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