Our Investment in Print Media
Since 2016 the magazine you hold right now has continuously invested in our communities by producing without fail a monthly magazine full of positive content. While doing this we've bucked a trend that has seen circulation of national magazines in a decline. Some folks have even suggested that print media has possibly died. On the contrary, print media is in fact seeing a resurgence. As business people with ink in our veins, this is good news. The reasons for the uptick don't surprise us, but the folks behind an increase in print popularity are noteworthy.
For about two decades marketers, brands and consumers moved away from print to the shiny object that was new—Social Media. Cheaper, faster & better were simplified reasons why. A whole generation has grown up with Social Media as a primary source for news and information.
For lots of reasons it's clear why more people are pumping the brakes on Social Media. Tops on the list of concerns is the rampant sowing of misinformation, over-the-top political discourse, lies and general toxicity.
Another reason to re-think Social Media is that a swamp of sponsored content (ads that look like innocent posts) are filling our feeds.
Print media offers an almost soothing balm for many, including Millennials and Gen Z. The younger folks who brought us Dry January are also taking extended breaks from Social Media (or dropping out entirely). The reasons for hitting pause or saying buh-bye center around mental well-being; Social Media makes some folks too darn anxious.
Media pros have a lot of responsibility. Perhaps most importantly we are charged with sharing the truth, building trust & connecting people. These days print media feels good again. Why? Print is relatable, tactile, sharable, simple to navigate, and easy to eye swipe past unwanted content. Oh yeah, it's recyclable and made from sustainable resources.
Print—like the magazine you now hold in your hands—is ultimately authentic. And isn't that an investment worth making?
MICHAEL BEIGHTOL, PUBLISHER @SWLAKELIFESTYLE
April 2025
PUBLISHER
Michael Beightol | michael.beightol@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Stephen Neilson | stephen.neilson@citylifestyle.com
STAFF WRITER
Christina Sikorski
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Brittany Anas, Angela Broockherd, Michael Kurowski, Carolyn McNamara, Kim Mikus, Brooke Milton, Patti Noble
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
David Bradford, Janie Jones, Alex Larson, Carolyn McNamara, Mark Roberts, Claire Slattery
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
THE RIGHT BANKING PARTNER MAKES ALL THE DIFFERENCE.
Wintrust and Hawthorn Woods Community Bank offer customers the “best of both worlds” — the product selection and technology of the big national banks paired with the customer service, personal attention, and community focus that can only be provided by a true, locally managed community bank.
Across our four specialized wealth management groups, we have the financial products, services, and technical specialists to meet the needs of private clients, business owners, and institutions.
HELPING PRIVATE CLIENTS AND THEIR FAMILIES:
• Plan for retirement
• Financially care for loved ones
• Pay education expenses
HELPING BUSINESS OWNERS AND INSTITUTIONS:
• Gain access to credit
• Optimize cash balances
• Manage employee retirement plans
• Defer taxes on real estate gains
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Local businesses gather regularly at Lake Zurich Chamber networking events called “Business After Hours.” 2: Susanne Dershaw (Volle’s and Mr. Tux) and Jennifer Kipp enjoying the hospitality at Eddie Merlot’s in Lincolnshire. 3: John Tolomei and Bruce Wittmeyer, chamber immediate past president. 4: Eddie Merlot’s is a prime steakhouse offering an unparalleled dining experience and great wine list. 5: Kathy Marrison, chamber president, thanks Tim Sherlock, general manager of Eddie Merlot’s, for hosting After Hours. 6: Peter Salerno and Agnieszka Moroni. 7: Sandra Frampton, Renee Clark of @Properties & Ronna Streiff.
Photography by Claire Slattery
business monthly
Sergeant Honored for Life-Saving Action
Sgt. James Harrison, Lake County Forest Preserves Ranger (at right), was presented with an honorable mention award in February for exceptional bravery and quick thinking. While on routine patrol, Harrison encountered a vehicle on fire and an injured and trapped driver. Sgt. Harrison and Officer Brittany Fears from the Round Lake Park Police Department put out what Lt. Shane Page of the Round Lake Fire Department called a fire "that was spreading fast and was sizeable.”
Happy 50th Anniversary to the Marriott Theatre
Founded in 1975, the Marriott Theatre is today an acclaimed venue selling more than 400,000 tickets annually with more than 180 productions presented to an estimated 11 million patrons since opening. For its efforts Marriott Theatre has earned a record 599 Joseph Jefferson Award nominations—Chicago’s highest theatrical honor. In addition to the presentation of classic American musical theatre, Marriott Theatre has become a driving force in the development of original and re-imagined musicals.
New Brewery Opens with Equal Emphasis on Beer and Food
Now open in The Arboretum of South Barrington is Tangled Roots Craft Beer & Kitchen. Serving both fresh craft beer and classic dishes from locally sourced ingredients, the team there seeks to create an experience that caters to both craft beer aficionados and culinary enthusiasts. There is a wide selection of house-brewed craft beers and elevated pub favorites, fresh salads, hearty entrees and indulgent desserts. And on weekends, brunch!
Photorgaphy: Carolyn McNamara
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Outdoor Living Elevated
Transform your property with a custom deck—created by a professional builder—designed for comfort, style and lasting durability.
ARTICLE BY PATTI NOBLE
PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID BRADBURN AND ALEX LARSON
David Bradburn, Fork the Man
With Spring arriving this month and warmer weather just around the corner, thoughts turn to spending more time outdoors, and for many homeowners, that means maximizing outdoor living spaces. Whether a cozy front porch, a sprawling deck for summer gatherings, or a versatile three-season room that seamlessly merges indoor with outdoor, having the right outdoor space can enhance both your home’s value and your lifestyle.
But creating the perfect open air retreat starts with careful planning—choosing the right design, materials, and layout to fit your needs. And working with a team who specializes in creating outdoor living spaces is key. So, we sat down with Alex Larson, owner of TL Decks in Crystal Lake, to talk design trends, materials, aesthetics, and why he is passionate about creating spaces that reflect each homeowner’s unique lifestyle.
While Alex has a lifelong appreciation for natural surroundings and outdoor activities, the past few years have reinforced just how valuable our homes— and the spaces surrounding them—truly are.
David Bradburn, Fork the Man
As he explains, “If there’s one lasting lesson from the COVID era, it’s that the ability to gather comfortably and create a functional and inviting outdoor space to extend our living areas isn’t just a luxury; it’s a priority.”
With years of experience in designing and building custom decks and porches, Alex and his team at TL Decks have built a reputation for transforming backyards into stunning, functional spaces, guiding homeowners through the process of choosing the best materials and layouts for their specific needs.
While traditional wood decks were once the standard, today’s trends are increasingly turning to composite decking (a blend of wood fibers and plastic) and poly-resin materials for durability and low maintenance. Railings, too, have evolved with a variety of styles and finishes from traditional to low profile and everything in between. With a wide range of prices, finishes, and styles, having guidance from someone whose business focuses on decking makes all the difference.
Alex takes pride in his dedication to meeting the clients where they are at. He stresses the importance of open communication between the homeowner and the contractor; an opportunity for each to ask questions and provide clarity. To create a space that reflects the homeowner’s vision, it is essential to understand how they plan to use the space. For instance, do they enjoy their morning coffee on their front porch? Do they regularly eat dinner in their backyard where the late day sun beats down? Do they like to walk around on their deck barefooted?
In turn, homeowners would benefit from educating themselves about the products, including maintenance, longevity, and the amount of heat they produce. Alex explains, “If we don’t have these conversations up front, the homeowner may end up disappointed with the finished product.” He also adds that when considering contractors, look for someone innovative with up-to-date knowledge of, and experience with, the current products and trends.
A thoughtfully designed deck can transform your outdoor space, creating a beautiful and inviting retreat. Whether you’re looking to refresh an aging structure or create something entirely new, don’t go it alone; trust a specialist to bring your vision to life. With the right design and materials, your backyard or front porch can become a haven for quiet mornings, lively summer evenings, and everything in between.
“Creating a functional and inviting outdoor space to extend our living areas isn’t just a luxury; it’s a priority.”
Alex Larson
ARTICLE BY BROOKE MILTON
How to Edit Your Home
SIMPLE STEPS TO DECLUTTER YOUR SPACES AND CREATE A MORE INTENTIONAL, STRESS-FREE LIFESTYLE
Brooke Milton, edit+design
If you’re not thinking about spring cleaning, it’s time to put it on your radar.
Start by taking a holistic view of your house, room by room, to see where you can edit. Space organization is life organization. Streamlining can absolutely influence less-healthy habits to create more intentional lifestyles. There’s an important connection between mental health and clutter. Stuff affects anxiety, depression, eating habits, focus, productivity, relationships, stress—everything.
Here are some steps to start your process:
There’s
an important connection between mental health and clutter. Stuff affects anxiety, depression, eating habits, focus, productivity, relationships, stress—everything.
Choose Need vs. Want
We need very little. Separating the two is a hard concept, though. Spend some time thinking about what’s important to you, in the physical sense. What you need day-to-day isn’t the same as what you want. Decide to surround yourself with only useful objects. Let go of the rest.
Start Small
Set small, attainable goals. Set a timer for 20 minutes and go to town on “editing,” whether it’s tackling a junk drawer or sorting through a stack of papers on a counter. Don’t let yourself get overwhelmed. You’ll be amazed at what you can accomplish in a short period of time. Seeing each project through to completion will give you the confidence you need for the next one.
Add and Subtract
If one comes in, one must come out. If you buy a new sweatshirt, for example, get rid of one or two. If you buy a new dress, get rid of one. Now. Don’t wait until your closet or drawers are stuffed. The idea of editing later becomes daunting.
Be a Conscious Buyer
Becoming a more conscious buyer goes a long way toward reducing your clutter. It’s a choice to “add to cart.” Next day delivery is certainly enticing, but I encourage you to be careful to not overbuy. Focus on household necessities before gadgets and gizmos. Toilet paper, garbage bags and shampoo take precedence over anything social media sneakily tries to convince you to buy.
Create a Routine
It’s much easier to keep up than to catch up, so establish a routine to edit your spaces on a regular basis. Grab a laundry basket and make the rounds— maybe once a week—tossing in anything that needs a home. As you sort through off-season clothing, get rid of anything you didn’t wear. Check food labels and toss out expired products from your pantry before heading to the grocery store. Recycle newspapers and magazines that haven’t been read. Once you find a rhythm that works for you, editing will become less of a challenge and more of a source of pride.
Brooke Milton is the founder of edit + design, a boutique interior design firm specializing in whole home organization and custom woodworking. She’s been proudly serving the North Shore since 2010. Learn more at editanddesign.com and @editanddesignco on Instagram.
De-cluttering and organizing on a routine basis helps reduce mental stress.
The kitchen, considered the heart of the home, is typically the most important, family-centric room for every family. To protect your investment in your home, take note of the following turnoffs that buyers hate seeing when looking to buy a house.
Real estate agents always remind sellers that a house needs to project an image to potential buyers as being a place to host a dinner party, prepare a family meal and while away a snowy winter day with holiday baking. Sophisticated buyers know it’s a straightforward thing to swap cabinet hardware or change the color of paint, but that there are other things that too big to ignore.
Here are six kitchen problems that should be addressed before putting a home on the market:
BUTCHER BLOCK
As beautiful as they can be, butcher blocks are cheaper than stone, which is why so many flippers use them in renovations, says Remington Rand, a real estate agent. While these counters look great when new, they turn off buyers who know that they scar easily. Also, “around sinks, it can be challenging to seal and can allow water to creep in, causing rot,” he says.
The exception here: When butcher blocks are used as actual cutting surfaces on a small section or island, it’s practical and
develops a natural patina. If you do buy a home with butcher block counters, Rand recommends you make sure you know what kind of sealant was used on the wood so you can maintain it.
MISMATCHED APPLIANCES
Sellers don’t need to have the trendiest kitchen appliances to win over buyers, but the large appliances in the kitchen should at least match, says Broker Sean Adu-Gyamfi. A white refrigerator paired with a stainless-steel oven or dishwasher may seem like a minor issue, he says, but buyers will perceive clashing appliances as an extra expense to achieve the cohesive and aesthetically pleasing kitchen that they expect.
OLDER APPLIANCES
Kitchen appliances have varying lifespans. So, when a buyer notices a kitchen full of outdated appliances, they’ll immediately
CONTINUED >
Opposite
Opposite
Above:
Opposite Left Top: Butcher block countertops are a no-no.
Bottom Left: Brittany Anas
Bottom Right: Mismatched appliances can be a turn-off.
Older appliances raise a red flag.
“WHEN PREPARING A HOUSE TO PUT ON THE MARKET, KEEP IN MIND THAT A POTENTIAL BUYER NEEDS TO BE ABLE TO PROJECT THEIR LIFE INTO YOUR SPACE.”
start seeing additional dollar signs, says Ebony Boudreaux, a kitchen and bath designer. “If there are old appliances in a home, chances are they either do not work or they are on their way to the appliance graveyard,” she says. “Appliances can be a big-ticket item in a home.” Also, if those appliances are built-in, buyers could be looking at a partial or complete kitchen remodel in the future.
“Many homebuyers prefer to have a kitchen with newer appliances — even if the appliances are not high-end,” Boudreaux says. “The peace of mind in knowing that they don’t have to make this type of purchase after buying a home can be a major selling point.”
FLUORESCENT BOX LIGHTING
Mood lighting is among the top kitchen trends designers are betting on to be big in 2025. Buyers tend to prefer warm lighting and can be put off by the harsh institutional lighting of fluorescent box lights, which creates an unwelcoming atmosphere and casts unflattering shadows, says Anna Tatsioni, an interior designer. Layered lighting with recessed LEDs, statement pendant fixtures, and under-cabinet lighting are all on-trend for 2025, she says.
OAK CABINETS
Popular in the 1990s, when oak cabinets age they tend to look orangey. This dates a kitchen and can lead a buyer into thinking that the entire kitchen needs a makeover. Heavy grain wood and outdated color
also make a smaller kitchen feel cramped, Tatsioni says. Today’s buyers are gravitating towards cabinets that are warm white, “greige” (gray-beige), or sage green with clean lines and minimal graining. “Buyers also appreciate soft-close hardware and organized storage solutions,” Tatsioni says.
OVERLY THEMATIC
A strongly themed or over-accessorized kitchen that seems too personal gives buyers an “ick” feeling, explains designer Elissa Hall. “Most buyers go in expecting to find a blank canvas where they can
picture their own family get-togethers, and excessive décor — like a brilliant red “diner-style” theme replete with fake neon signs — may destroy that idea before they’ve even had a chance to investigate the rest of the room,” she says.
Hall once saw a kitchen that was outfitted with a colorful nautical theme, including fishnet stretched over the ceiling and faux portholes on the cabinets, which distracted from the high-end appliances. It’s fine to add personality to your space but be sure to keep it more neutral when you’re hoping to sell your home and cash-in on your investment.
Brittany Anas is a former newspaper reporter in Colorado. A version of this article was previously published in Apartment Therapy.
Left: Florescent light is harsh, uneconomical & environmentally unfriendly.
Top: Kitschy kitchen design is overly personal.
Bottom: Oak turns orange over time.
Hollywood Discovers Us
ARTICLE BY MICHAEL BEIGHTOL & STEPHEN NEILSON | PHOTOGRAPHY BY MARK ROBERTS
WHY HOLLYWOOD HAS FOUND LONG GROVE AN IDEAL MOVIE SETTING FOR THE QUINTESSENTIAL AMERICAN SMALL TOWN.
Filming in Long Grove gives productions a distinctive look that stands out from the stereotypical urban backdrops often seen in Hollywood.
Long Grove has been long recognized as a quaint village located just northwest of the capital of the Midwest—Chicago. The historic downtown with lovely covered bridge lacks the glitz and glam of Hollywood, but a picturesque setting still attracts filmmakers seeking to create films with a distinctly Midwestern backdrop. With its cobblestone streets, 19th-century architecture, cute shops and semi-rural surroundings, Long Grove serves as an ideal location for films requiring small-town ambiance, seasonal backdrops, and a romanticized version of America.
From its collection of shops, galleries, and restaurants in the heart of the village to its wideopen fields and tranquil woods, Long Grove offers a range of settings for both romantic dramas and lighthearted comedies. The village has developed into a go-to filming location for several local and independent productions, and its aesthetic can provide the kind of atmosphere that filmmakers look for to portray life in an authentic yet cinematic way. Filming in Long Grove also gives productions a distinctive look that stands out from the stereotypical urban backdrops often seen in Hollywood.
With easy access to Chicago with its growing film industry, there’s access to technical talent that every producer needs.
In 2024 Long Grove was abuzz with excitement over a film being shot starring Mario Lopez. With his impossibly appealing dimples, the 51-year old son of Mexican immigrants has been a Hollywood mainstay for most of his life. He has appeared on several television series, in films, and on Broadway. He is known for his portrayal of A.C. Slater on “Saved by the Bell,” “Saved by the Bell: The College Years,” “Dancing with the Stars” and as host for the
syndicated entertainment news magazine shows “Extra” and “Access Hollywood.”
Making its debut during the holidays last year, “Once Upon a Christmas Wish” featured not just Mario, but also his wife, Courtney Lopez (portraying his love interest), as well as their son, Dario (in a darling role as a middle school journalist). It’s a sweet-aspie holiday movie with oodles of small-town charm.
The producer of the Lopez film is Mark Roberts, a 30-year veteran of the entertainment business. This isn’t the first time he’s teamed up with Lopez; previously the pair worked on “The Expanding Universe of Ashley Garcia” for Netflix (two seasons) and “Steppin' into the Holiday” for Lifetime Television.
When he chose to shoot last year’s film in Long Grove, Roberts’ production company joined the ranks of other movie makers who have invested in the local economy in a significant way. Film productions bring in not only direct revenue but also secondary income for surrounding businesses. An estimate of the economic impact depends on various factors such as the scale of production, the duration of the shoot, and the extent to which local vendors and talent are employed.
For example, a typical film production might hire local crew members, set designers, caterers, and equipment suppliers, all of which create employment opportunities within the village and SW Lake County. The influx of production staff also drives business for local hotels, restaurants, and shops. In many cases, local businesses can see a rise in sales and foot traffic as film crews and their associates frequent these establishments during their stay.
An estimate of the local economic impact of a film shoot in Long Grove could range from several
Opposite page, left: Cast and crew moved in to Long Grove for three weeks last year. | Top right: Mark Edwards, producer of “Once Upon a Christmas Wish” on set in Long Grove. | Bottom right: Mario Lopez takes the wheel.
hundred thousand dollars for small-scale productions to over a million dollars for larger projects.
This would include direct spending on location fees, local service providers, housing, and catering.
For his film, “we likely spent close to $1 million dollars in three weeks in the area for hotels, cars, crew, actors, equipment and more,” says Roberts.
Additionally, a successful film like “Once Upon a Christmas Wish” raises the village’s profile, leading to tourism boosts and long-term economic growth as more people discover the area through its on-screen presence. And the success of just one film helps draw other production teams to Long Grove.
The titles for other films recently shot locally seem to center on a very particular segment of the movie business:
• “Christmas on the Ranch” (2024) - a Hulu romcom filmed in Long Grove, Mundelein, and Hawthorn Woods. Lots of scenes were shot onsite at High Finance Farm, an equestrian center on Gilmer Road.
• “Reporting for Christmas” (2023) - a holiday movie filmed in Long Grove.
• “Christmas with Felicity” (2021) – yet another holiday movie filmed in, you guessed it, Long Grove!
The State of Illinois Film Office plays a crucial role in making Illinois, including Long Grove, a welcome destination for filmmakers. The office provides a range of services, such as assistance with permits, location scouting, and connecting filmmakers with local vendors. Most notably, the Film Office administers the Illinois Film Tax Credit, which incentivizes film productions to choose Illinois as their filming destination.
The Illinois Film Tax Credit is a refundable credit of up to 30% of qualified production expenditures, including costs related to labor, supplies, and rentals. It’s an incentive program designed to make Illinois more competitive with other states, such as California and Georgia. It’s a win-win for both filmmakers and the state economy. While filmmakers benefit from reduced production costs, the state benefits from the substantial economic activity generated by the film industry, as well as increased tourism and potential job creation in the long term.
As Hollywood continues to look for fresh filming locations, Long Grove has established itself as a charming alternative to urban settings and largescale studio productions. The village’s quaint charm, combined with state financial incentives through the Illinois Film Office, makes it an attractive option for filmmakers seeking a Midwestern aesthetic with easy access to Chicago’s extensive production resources. It’s likely that Long Grove will see more investments by Hollywood and independent film productions in the future, further cementing its place as a sought-after film location.
Last year the village was buzzing when Hollywood's Mario Lopez and his spouse, Courtney, filmed in and around Long Grove.
INVEST IN YOUR GREENS
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD
PHOTOGRAPHY BY
JANIE JONES
Boost your health by adding a generous serving of fresh greens to your daily diet. While both cooked and raw vegetables offer health benefits, consuming them raw often provides the most nutrients. Raw greens are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and essential vitamins, helping to lower inflammation and reduce the risk of disease.
DANDELION GREENS:
Dandelion greens are a nutritious and easy addition to any meal, perfect for salads or cooked dishes. They are rich in vitamins A, C, K, chlorophyll, and fiber, making them a great choice for digestion and overall health. Their light flavor and texture enhance salads and sandwiches.
BROCCOLI:
Broccoli is often hailed as a nutritional powerhouse, packed with a variety of vitamins and minerals that support overall health. Known for being high in vitamins A, C, and K, it also contains important minerals like potassium, iron, and calcium. In addition, it’s a rich source of beta-carotene, flavonoids, and fiber. Whether raw or cooked, broccoli is an excellent choice for immune system support, making it one of the most nutrient-dense vegetables available.
BRUSSELS SPROUTS:
Brussels sprouts are a highly nutritious cruciferous vegetable, known for their vitamin C, K, and folate content, as well as carotenoids and fiber. These vegetables can be shaved, sliced, sautéed, boiled, or grilled, offering a range of flavors from mild to bitter, depending on preparation.
KALE:
Kale is loaded with essential nutrients such as vitamins C, B6, E, K, and manganese. It contains twice as much selenium as spinach and is an excellent source of calcium. Kale’s unique properties help bind to cholesterol and lower oxalate levels, which promotes calcium absorption and makes it suitable for those prone to kidney stones. Additionally, it provides eye health benefits, thanks to lutein, and its disease-fighting properties make it a great addition to salads, smoothies, and more.
ARTICHOKES:
Artichokes are not only delicious but also packed with fiber, which aids in digestion. They are a great source of plant protein, potassium, and antioxidants like polyphenols. Artichokes also provide essential nutrients, including vitamins C, K, folate, magnesium, and B vitamins.
ASPARAGUS:
Asparagus is versatile and can be enjoyed grilled, sautéed, baked, or even raw. Packed with vitamins C, E, B, K, folate, and copper, it’s a great source of fiber. It also helps lower cholesterol and provides a variety of antioxidants that aid in healing. Asparagus is a perfect side dish that complements both light and robustly flavored meals.
SPINACH:
Spinach is a popular green known for its mild flavor and impressive nutritional profile. Rich in vitamins A, C, K, as well as magnesium, potassium, and iron, spinach is great for overall health. It also provides antioxidants that support eye health and includes calcium for stronger bones. However, because spinach has a higher oxalate content, it should be consumed in moderation by those with a history of kidney stones.
events
ALL MONTH LONG
Cats: Predators to Pets
1400 South Lake Shore Drive, Chicago
How did the king of the jungle evolve into an adorable internet meme? Learn all about cats and their unique biology and behaviors in this special exhibit. Can’t make it downtown? Enter your feline family member in the online “That’s My Cat” photo contest with winners chosen monthly. Presented at the Field Museum (FieldMuseum.org). Timed tickets required.
APRIL 3RD
“Hey, There” — The Music of Rosemary Clooney
111 West Campbell Street, Arlington Heights | 1:00 PM
Actor Kaity Paschetto, who has performed in regional favorites like Cabaret, brings to life some of Rosemary Clooney’s great songs of the 1950s and 1960s, like “Mambo Italiano” and “Tenderly.” Presented at the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre (MetropolisArts.com).
APRIL 4TH
Second Hand News: A Tribute to Fleetwood Mac
111 West Campbell Street, Arlington Heights | 7:30 PM
Witness how Melissa Brausch, Josh Chicoine, Mike Holtz, Dan Ingenthron, Mike Vanier, and Lindsay Weinberg channel the harmonies and sounds of Stevie Nicks, Lindsey Buckingham, Christine and John McVie, and of course Mick Fleetwood on Fleetwood Mac hits like “Go Your Own Way” and “Everywhere.” Presented at the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre (MetropolisArts.com).
APRIL 9TH
Bunny Hop
145 Old McHenry Road, Long Grove | 11:00 AM
Bring a basket and your sense of fun to a free family event featuring face painting, crafts, and candy treats. From 11 A.M. to 2 P.M. be ready to meet and take photographs with the Easter Bunny, as well as visit with some real bunnies as we celebrate springtime in downtown historic Long Grove (LongGrove.org).
APRIL 11TH - 13TH
Pick an Evening with David Sedaris
1490 Chicago Avenue (Evanston) & 23 East Galena Boulevard (Aurora)
You know his sense of humor and his work with sister Amy; now see him in person! David Sedaris comes to town for three local shows to share his special brand of wit and wisdom. Take your pick: Matinee and evening performances available at Evanston’s Nichols Concert Hall and Aurora’s Paramount Theater. Learn more at DavidSedarisBooks.com.
APRIL 15TH
The Buzz About Bees
145 West Main Street, Barrington | 11:30 AM
Honey bees are thriving all across backyards and public spaces in SW Lake County, thanks to Karen & Brian Thomson, owners of Honey Lake Bee Company. Learn about their journey as beekeepers, and better understand the important role bees play in our local environment. Presented at Barrington’s White House (BarringtonsWhiteHouse.com).
CONTINUED
APRIL 16TH
Mississippi River Adventures
275 West Mohawk Trail, Lake Zurich 7:00 PM
Enjoy Illinois this spring as John Kokoris takes you on a trip from Galena to St. Louis, with tips and tricks on dining, special events, architecture, and the history of the Mighty Mississippi River. Presented at the Ela Area Public Library (EAPL.org). If you're not familiar with Kokoris, check out his story about downstate Illinois from last summer (CityLifestyle.com/articles/final-fling).
APRIL 22ND - 26TH
Riverdance
151 West Randolph Street, Chicago
Hard to believe it’s the 30th anniversary of Riverdance. The thunder roars again with music and dance back in Chicago. Composed by Bill Whelan and directed by John McColgan, this special anniversary tour boasts new choreography and costumes with music influenced by the sounds of Ireland. Presented at the Cadillac Palace Theatre (BroadwayInChicago.com), with evening and matinee performances offered.
APRIL 23RD
Monet Lives!
275 West Mohawk Trail, Lake Zurich 7:00 PM
What if Claude Monet came back and could tell us about life in Paris in the 1800s? Come “meet” Monet and hear about his triumphs and failures in this special live presentation, which includes 4” x 4” Tiny Tributes of great Impressionist art from Monet, Van Gogh, Degas, and Renoir. Presented at the Ela Area Public Library (EAPL.org).
APRIL 24TH
Cocktails and Conversation:
Dr. Todd Jones on CRISPR Technology
145 West Main Street, Barrington 5:00 PM
Learn from Dr. Todd Jones, Distinguished Laureate and leader of Ag Equity Initiatives at Corteva Agriscience, about the opportunities and challenges of how CRISPR technology can be used to positively change agriculture. A cash bar will be available, and your ticket includes one beverage of choice. Presented at Barrington’s White House (Barringtons WhiteHouse.com).
APRIL 26TH
Long Grove's
Annual Craft Beer Fest
145 Old McHenry Road, Long Grove 12:00 PM
Join with friends for an afternoon of enjoying local craft beer at Long Grove's Brothers Field. Your ticket includes a souvenir tasting class, top-tier craft beer samples, live music by Sunflower Headlights, and access to food vendors galore. Specials for designated drivers. Buy advance tickets at LongGrove.org. No kids or pets. Presented by Historic Downtown Long Grove.
APRIL 30TH
Jazz by the James Callen Trio
275 West Mohawk Trail, Lake Zurich 7:00 PM
April is Jazz Appreciation Month! Celebrate with the James Callen Trio playing new interpretations of songs from The Eagles, The Beatles, Bob Dylan, John Denver, Queen, Eric Clapton, Cyndi Lauper, and more. Please register online at EAPL.org or by calling 847.438.3433. Presented at the Ela Area Public Library, meeting rooms A & B.
Your child is growing fast, and by the time they’re 5 years old, their brain will be 90% developed. That’s why it’s so important to nurture the cognitive, physical and emotional skills now that will set them up for success in the future.
MichaelKurowski
Curb Appeal
What Investments Drive the Highest Value for Home Improvement Projects.
Investing in home improvements can increase the value of your property significantly. Here are the top five home improvements that tend to hold or add value:
1. Kitchen Remodel: The kitchen is often seen as the heart of the home. Upgrading appliances, countertops, cabinets, and fixtures can greatly enhance the aesthetic appeal and functionality. A minor kitchen remodel can yield a high ROI (return on investment), often recouping 70-80% of the cost.
2. Bathroom Renovation: Updating bathrooms, particularly the master and guest baths, can significantly boost your home's value. Improvements might include new tile, fixtures, vanities, and energy-efficient toilets. A mid-range bathroom remodel often sees a 60-70% ROI.
3. Curb Appeal Enhancements: First impressions count! Improvements like landscaping, exterior painting, new siding, or a new front door can enhance curb appeal. Simple changes, such as adding flower beds or improving outdoor lighting, can yield substantial returns in a range of 85-130%.
4. Energy-Efficient Upgrades: Installing energy-efficient windows, HVAC systems, or insulation can attract eco-conscious buyers and reduce utility costs for homeowners. These upgrades can sometimes offer a payoff that exceeds the installation cost, often increasing the home’s desirability.
5. Outdoor Living Spaces: Adding a deck, patio, or outdoor kitchen can extend your living space and is especially attractive in warmer weather. Features like fire pits, landscaping, and outdoor lighting can also enhance the value significantly, with some studies suggesting that a well-executed deck addition can recoup around 70-80% of its cost.
When considering home improvements, it’s wise to research local trends and consult with a real estate professional to understand what buyers in your market prioritize.
About the Author: Michael Kurowski is with Jameson Sotheby’s (Barrington). Learn more at linktr.ee/kurowski.properties or call 847.804.7350. Please note that ROI projections are derived from the “2024 Cost vs. Value Report” by Zonda Media.
Choose wisely: Improvements that enhance a home’s curb appeal typically pay back with the highest return on investment.
ARTICLE BY MICHAEL KUROWSKI
