Kids & Pets
This issue holds a special place in my heart. Children are more than just the future—they are the heartbeat of our communities today. Their laughter, their curiosity, and their potential shape the world in ways we can’t fully measure.
As parents and caregivers, we put so much effort into nurturing their growth, teaching them, and investing in their futures. But let’s not forget that children also shape us—they bring joy, laughter, and meaning to our everyday lives.
But we also cannot overlook the powerful role pets play in our families. They offer unconditional love and teach us valuable lessons in empathy, responsibility, and companionship. The bond between kids and their pets can be transformative, fostering deep emotional connections that last a lifetime.
At the core of both children and pets is a simple truth—they need us. Our care and attention shape who they become, and in turn, they shape us. This issue is dedicated to celebrating the kids and pets who fill our homes with joy and love.
I hope this month’s issue inspires you to pour a little extra love into the children and pets in your life. They are the ones who remind us of the simple joys and the importance of unconditional love.
Here’s to our future, our little ones, and the pets who make everything better.
Cheers!
CHELSEY JUAREZ, PUBLISHER @SWLAKELIFESTYLE
August 2025
PUBLISHER
Chelsey Juarez | chelsey.juarez@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Michael Beightol | michael.beightol@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Michael Beightol, Angela Broockerd, Joanne Dalessandro, Beth Del Ville, Pam Reid, Amy Salvagno
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Michael Beightol, Janie Jones, Qiana Kelsch
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
We are open to service all your jewelry needs at both locations.
business monthly
Networking Group Sets Milestone in Year One
P3 Referrals, a business networking and lead-sharing group drawn from business owners in Lake and McHenry counties, made more than 40 referrals in it's first year (ending June 30). This resulted in nearly $105,000 in shared business revenue for members. The group meets weekly at the Norge Ski Hill Clubhouse (Fox River Grove) and welcomes new members and guests to all meetings. Learn more on Facebook (@P3Referrals).
Award-Winning Film Producer Will Keynote the GPF Foundation Annual Event
Northshore native Diane Quon will be the keynote speaker at “Lens & Light - An Evening of Illumination,” the annual event for the GPF Foundation to be held at October 16 at Northmoor Country Club. Quon was nominated for an Academy Award for her documentary about skateboard culture in small town America. Funds raised at the event support the Foundation’s life saving work. Learn more at GPFFoundation.com .
Hawthorn Woods Community Bank Checking Accounts That Checks Every Box
Looking for a sign to switch to a better checking account? Here it is, coupled with a better all-around banking experience. The approach taken at Hawthorn Woods Community Bank includes innovative products and exceptional customer service — bringing you the best of both worlds. Different Approach, Better Results® Explore our checking account perks. Learn more at hawthorn woodsbank.com/betterchecking. Hawthorn Woods Community Bank is a branch of Barrington Bank & Trust Company, N.A.
CHILD’S EDUCATION
Rosey Madulara, bank manager, shows Reilly Meier the vault at Hawthorn Woods Community Bank
START THE PLANNING PROCESS NOW FOR SENDING YOUR CHILD OFF TO COLLEGE
As the cost of college continues to rise, parents are eager to start saving early and strategically. That’s where we come into play. We’re here to help you plan and save for all of life’s biggest goals. Whether you’re 18 years away from sending your infant off to college or a few years out from packing up your teen, it’s always a good idea to speak with a financial expert.
BY
PHOTOGRAPHY
MICHAEL BEIGHTOL
We work with a wide range of clients and can help you navigate saving for college no matter where you’re starting from.
Here are a few things to consider.
529 COLLEGE SAVINGS PLANS
529 plans are a way to save money for the cost of education without that money being taxed while you save. And, as long as the money saved is used for qualified education expenses, it won’t be taxed when it’s withdrawn for use.
The earlier you can start putting money into a 529, the longer it has time to grow and reap all the benefits the plan offers. But even if college is just around the corner, a 529 plan can still be a great tool.
BUILD FINANCIAL LITERACY WITH BANK ACCOUNTS FOR MINORS
Saving for education goes beyond tuition and room and board. It’s helpful for your child to have an account of their own to help them navigate discretionary spending.
Michelle Meier and her daughter, Reilly, relax in the bank lobby.
“OUR CLUB FOR ADOLESCENT ACCOUNT HOLDERS WHO WANT TO LEARN ABOUT FINANCIAL LITERACY, AND THEIR COMMUNITY, THROUGH ENJOYABLE ACTIVITIES.”
JUNIOR SAVERS STATEMENT
SAVINGS ACCOUNTS (1)
From Treat Dollars (2) to spend at local favorite restaurants to year-round clubs and activities, we try to make saving fun while instilling healthy financial habits. Best of all, Junior Savers accounts grow with children. (No minimum to open. For customers under age 22. $200 daily minimum balance to avoid a $5 monthly maintenance fee once the Junior Saver turns 22.)
“As a banker, it’s rewarding to see how financial education shapes the future of our young children. I’ve had the opportunity to teach financial literacy classes to school-age children in the community,”
says Vice President and Branch Manager at Hawthorn Woods Community Bank (HWCB) Rosemarie Madulara. “Our team loves to share their knowledge with the children as they grow into Student Checking accounts in middle school.”
Young savers can participate in our Junior Savers Club (3) and Teen Banking Club (3). Think pizza parties, holiday meet and greets, financial literacy opportunities — our clubs have it all.
STUDENT CHECKING
Your teen can receive a debit card of their own while you maintain parental access by setting spending limits, direct-depositing
gifts or allowances, tracking account usage, and more. (No minimum deposit to open, and no minimum monthly balance or monthly maintenance fees. These accounts are available to students 13 to 25 years of age. Applicants under age 18 may be required to open an account jointly with a parent, legal guardian, or other adult.)
Get started! Stop by HWCB and see how you can set your child up for a successful college experience.
Publisher's Note: This article was provided by Hawthorn Woods Community Bank. For the Junior Savers Statement Savings Account (1), child(ren) must be accompanied by a parent or guardian & present valid Social Security number(s) at account opening. Fees may reduce earnings. We may change the interest rate on your account at any time. The Earning Treat Dollars (2) program allows youngsters to Earn 2 Treat Dollars when opening the account, 1 Treat Dollar for every $25 deposited with a maximum of 7 Treat Dollars per visit, and 1 Treat Dollar when a Junior Saver celebrates a birthday. The Junior Savers/Teen Banking Club (3) provides memberships for customers under age 22. Hawthorn Woods Community Bank is a branch of Barrington Bank & Trust Company, N.A. MEMBER FDIC. EQUAL HOUSING LENDER
Rosey and Reilly visit the teller counter at Hawthorn Woods Community Bank
Reilly and Rosey get to know each other a little more
ARTICLE BY JOANNE DALESSANDRO
North Barrington Woman
Leads Local FSHD Fundraising Efforts
Momentum Building
to Find a Cure
In support for my journey to find a cure for FSHD (Facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy) a series of governmental proclamations were declared to help raise awareness about the disease. We are grateful to Governor JB Pritzker who kicked off things on behalf of the State of Illinois. Those were followed by both Illinois House and Senate proclamations. Capping it off were proclamations from Lake County and my hometown of North Barrington, spearheaded by my friend and Village President Eleanor Sweet McDonnell.
It’s been a magical journey of advocacy to help others in the entire state of Illinois and beyond. To honor, celebrate and create awareness for June 20th, World FSHD Day,
four major Chicago buildings flipped orange in support. The John Hancock, Blue Cross/Blue Shield, the Prudential, & Tribune Tower were awash in orange light to create a ray of hope for the FSHD community.
Earlier this year a “Fido Fights FSHD” campaign kicked off in Palm Springs, CA to raise awareness of this rare, genetic muscular dystrophy that affects about one million people worldwide. Locally, we hosted the first ever “Yappy Hour” The Club of Wynstone with 155 attendees and 45 well behaved dogs. It was an evening of fun, friendship and creating awareness with all things “orange,” including doggie giveaways, lite bites, dog-shaped cookies, and Aperol Spritz cocktails.
For the annual Barrington Fourth of July Parade more than 35 local supporters marched alongside a classic ‘57 Chevy handing out bandanas to spectators helping build momentum for the upcoming Chicagoland FSHD Walk to be held at Citizen’s Park in Barrington on September 13.
Please join my team – “Joanne’s Warriors” – to support the fight and rally for a cure.
To learn more visit Give.FSHDSociety.org/team/658263 or send an email to joanne@fshd-cure.org.
Left page: Supporters surround Joanne Dalessandro during the Club at Wynstone “Yappy Hour,” a kick-off event to build awareness for FSHD. This page, top: Joanne & Eleanor Sweet McDonald, North Barrington Village President. Bottom: Governor JB Pritzker & Joanne in Springfield.
FOR HOLLIS BROTHERS, CAR CARE IS A FAMILY AFFAIR
Gilbert and Allen Khoshaba
Continue the 40-Year Legacy of Car Care in Downtown Barrington.
ARTICLE BY MICHAEL BEIGHTOL
While the neat two-story building at the corner of Main & Ela streets in downtown Barrington has been there for years, what happens inside has certainly changed.
Nestled in a tidy white brick building near the Metra Station on Lake-Cook Road, brothers Gilbert and Allen Khoshaba are continuing the legacy of the Hollis Brothers who founded the auto repair shop a generation ago.
In Downtown Barrington a Second Set of Brothers Are Continuing the Care for Family Automobiles
Hollis Brothers Auto Werkz continues to be a cornerstone of reliable automotive care. The building is a familiar sight, but the expertise and dedication found within its walls are constantly evolving, making it one of the most trusted names in local auto repair.
The Khoshabas have had a thing for European cars – especially BMWs – since they were soccer-loving kids growing up in Iraq. Whether you drive a BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, or another prestigious brand, ASE-certified technicians combine advanced training and experience to deliver unparalleled care. Utilizing genuine parts and state-of-the-art diagnostic tools, Hollis Brothers tackle everything from preventative maintenance, such as oil changes and brake replacements, to complex repairs involving engines and transmissions.
“Our commitment to convenience sets us apart,” Gilbert says. “We know life doesn’t pause for car troubles, so we offer services like loaner vehicles
and shuttle transportation. Additionally, our secure lockbox system allows customers to drop off their cars outside regular business hours, ensuring flexibility and peace of mind. Operating Monday through Friday from 7:00 AM to 4:30 PM, our team works diligently to get you back on the road with confidence.”
CAR CARE EXTENDS BEYOND EUROPEAN VEHICLES
Asian-made cars such as Honda and Toyota hold their reputation for reliability, and Hollis Brothers ensures they remain in peak condition. Again, ASE-certified technicians use cutting-edge diagnostic tools and genuine parts to maintain the long-term performance these vehicles are known for. From routine maintenance to in-depth repairs, the Khoshabas approach every service with precision and dedication to quality.
Drivers of Asian vehicles appreciate the shop’s transparency and commitment to keeping them
informed throughout the repair process. Whether it’s a simple tune-up or more advanced work, the whole team ensures customers understand what their vehicle requires and why, fostering trust and satisfaction in every interaction.
American brands such as Chevrolet, Cadillac, and Dodge are celebrated for their innovation, power, and durability. Hollis Brothers Auto Werkz also works with domestic brands with the same care and attentions, including original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts to maintain their peak performance.
Whether you drive a Suburban, Charger or Escalade, the Hollis Brothers team handles routine maintenance and significant repairs with the care and expertise these vehicles demand. They ensure long-lasting results, allowing you to enjoy the blend of comfort and performance American automakers are known for.
Chevrolet, Cadillac, and Dodge vehicles represent the best of American automotive design, combining innovative technology with rugged reliability. Owners of these vehicles trust Hollis Brothers Auto Werkz to provide the specialized care needed to preserve their unique characteristics, ensuring they remain dependable for all driving needs.
Passion and dedication are the hallmarks for exceptional service that begin with a genuine passion for cars and a commitment to customer satisfaction. Their approach is built on three pillars of excellence. First, they employ talented professionals who
“Our commitment to convenience sets us apart,” Gilbert says. “We know life doesn’t pause for car troubles...”
guarantee your car is in the best hands. Second, genuine parts and cutting-edge tools help to deliver accurate diagnoses and reliable repairs. Third, Gilbert says they believe in transparent communication, keeping customers informed from start to finish. Whether discussing a simple oil change or complex transmission work, they ensure a customer understands every step of the process.
The dedication to quality is backed by a 7-year or 77,000-mile warranty, providing peace of mind and assurance that repairs are completed to the highest standard. This
commitment to excellence is complemented by a customer-focused approach, making Hollis Brothers Auto Werkz a trusted partner for automotive care.
Discover why drivers across Barrington and in the northwest suburbs choose Hollis Brothers Auto Werkz for their automotive needs. Learn more by visiting their website (HollisBrosAutoWerkz.com) or call 847.440.3275 with any questions. Whether you’re seeking routine maintenance or complex repairs, the Khoshaba brothers are ready to deliver exceptional service with a smile.
WHISKING UP CONFIDENCE
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Why Cooking with Kids is More Than Just Making Meals
There’s something truly special about inviting your child into the kitchen—not just for the cookies or cupcakes, but for the confidence, creativity, and connection that come with it. Cooking with your children isn’t just a fun way to pass the time; it’s an opportunity to build lifelong skills and memories that stick.
Sure, teaching a young child how to crack an egg or measure flour can test your patience—but hang in there. With a little trial and a fair amount of error, they’ll start to develop the fine motor skills that allow them to prep a recipe all on their own one day. The best part? They’ll gain confidence along the way, one scoop, stir, and sprinkle at a time.
Cooking together also taps into something a little magical—memory. The smell of cookies baking or chili simmering on the stove can instantly transport us back to childhood. That’s not just nostalgia talking—science backs it up. Our sense of smell is closely tied to autobiographical memory, especially memories formed early in life. So those sweet, savory scents? They’re more powerful than you might think.
The key is to start simple. Let your toddler play with mixing bowls, spoons, and measuring cups. These little moments of pretend play actually help build the fine motor skills needed for real kitchen tasks. Begin with small jobs—scooping flour, flattening cookie dough with a rolling pin—and gradually add more steps as your child becomes more confident.
It won’t be perfect. The flour might fly, the sugar might spill, and the measurements might be slightly off—and that’s okay. Embrace the mess, stay patient, and focus on the fun. A dash of encouragement and a sprinkle of praise go a long way in keeping your little chef engaged and excited.
Over time, you’ll see the magic unfold: a child who’s not only learning how to cook but also growing more independent, capable, and proud of what they’ve created. And who knows? Maybe one day, they’ll pass those same recipes—and memories—on to their own kids.
CONTINUED >
ANIMAL Crackers
Ingredients:
• 1 cup and 2 tablespoons white flour
• 1/4 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/2 cup oatmeal
• 4 tablespoons honey
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla
• 4 tablespoons buttermilk
• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup whole wheat flour
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, room temperature
• Optional: add 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg or cinnamon
CONTINUED >
Steps:
1. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.
EMBRACE THE MESS, STAY PATIENT, AND FOCUS ON THE FUN.
2. Put the oatmeal in a blender or food processor and pulse for about a minute, until it’s reduced to a rough powder. Add the ground oatmeal to the whole wheat and 1/2 cup of the white flour, baking soda and salt to the bowl of an electric mixer affixed with a paddle attachment, and turn on to mix. Add butter and blend on medium speed until the butter has been incorporated and the mix looks a little like wet sand. Add the buttermilk, vanilla, honey and almond extract and blend. If the dough looks too wet to roll, add the remaining flour 1/4 cup at a time until the dough forms a ball and pulls away from the sides of the blender.
3. Turn the dough out onto a piece of plastic wrap and flatten into a disc. Cover completely and chill in the fridge for at least one hour, up to overnight.
4. When ready to bake, preheat the oven to 400 degrees and place dough on a lightly floured surface (using the remaining 2 tablespoons of flour). Roll out until 1/8 inch thick. Cut out with desired cookie cutters and bake for five to seven minutes, based on your preference. Five minutes will get you a softer cracker, while seven will get you a crisp cracker.
Enjoy!
FAMILY TIME is the Best Investment
These simple, yet intentional ideas can make the best memories.
EAT DINNER TOGETHER AS A FAMILY.
This meaningful time around the table is where connections happen. Let everyone share good moments from the day or something they struggled with. Create a jar of conversation starters, exchange giggles and cook up something delicious.
CREATE SURPRISES
Everyone likes to feel special – and surprised. The littlest things make the biggest impact: A backyard picnic; a sleepover in an indoor fort; an after-school ice cream treat; a bathroom spa day.
CREATE FAMILY TRADITIONS
Build weekly or monthly traditions –movie nights with popcorn, board game marathons, a gratitude jar, evening bike rides, living room dance parties, even a family book club to discover old favorites and new reads.
EXPRESS LOVE AND GRATITUDE
In busy seasons, it’s easy to forget to let a loved one feel appreciated and thought of. Tuck a hand-written note in a lunch box or give an unexpected hug; spend time sharing what you’re thankful for about them.
KEEP GENERATIONS LINKED
Consider Sunday meals with grandparents or weekly phone calls if distance separates. Invite them to share their childhood stories and treasured memories. Start a yearly family scrapbook filled with favorite photographs and vacation souvenirs.
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Birthday in a Box
Looking for a fun, easy and creative way to help those in need celebrate their special day? Put together a Birthday in a Box! The main element is a birthday cake, and the best part is that no perishable items are needed; all you need is one can of lemon-lime soda to take the place of the oil, water and eggs.
And what is a birthday celebration without decorations? Get the kids to help decide what fun party decorations to include – think candles, banners, confetti, ribbon and more. These are great to make in batches when items are on sale at the grocery store. Stock up and make someone’s day!
ARTICLE BY BETH DEL VILLE |
PHOTOGRAPHY
QIANA KELSCH
PREP:
Collect all materials. Makes one Birthday in a Box.
• 1 Box of cake mix
• 1 Container of frosting
• 1 Can of lemon-lime soda
• 1 Disposable 9x13 aluminum baking pan with lid
• Cardstock or heavy paper, for baking directions and note (printed or handwritten)
• Party decorations of choice, including candles
STEP ONE:
Gather cake mix, container of frosting, can of lemon-lime soda, aluminum baking pan with lid and party decorations. Carefully place each item in the bottom of the baking pan, ensuring everything fits snugly.
STEP TWO:
Print or handwrite the instructions on cardstock, letting the recipient know to replace the oil, eggs and water with the can of lemon-lime soda, following the directions on the back of the cake mix box. You can also include a birthday wish.
STEP THREE:
Once all the items are in the pan, secure the lid and tie the package with a ribbon for an added festive touch. Deliver to your favorite food pantry.
ADDITIONAL ITEMS TO CONSIDER :
Include candles; balloons; a birthday banner; noisemakers; a blank card for friends and family to sign; a small, gender-neutral gift or a gift card; birthday-themed paper plates and napkins. You don’t have to make each box the same –choose a different cake mix and frosting flavor for each box!
1. THE ELEMENTS
Collect your essentials and special decorations
2. PUTTING IT TOGETHER
Place each element in the baking pan, including directions, and cover with the lid
3. TIME TO DELIVER
Collect your birthday cake boxes together and drop it at your favorite food pantry
UNPLUG HAVE FUN! &
ARTICLE BY PAM REID | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
Summertime is the best time for kids to disconnect and enjoy being outdoors.
Long, long ago, in a time before technology, children entertained themselves and played endlessly with nothing more than ... wait for it ... their imagination. They played outdoors for hours with friends, balls, jump ropes, buckets, chalk, bicycles, you name it! The level of creativity saw no limits in the minds of these children. While some families have plans for getaway vacations, there are those planning to stay home and scrambling for things their children can do. We’d like to share some ideas that don’t include technology or cost a boat load of money for that matter. The benefits of spending time outdoors and unplugged outweigh complaints about temperature or those annoying creepy crawlers. The added bonus is that many outdoor games secretly teach life skills. Technology is used only to confirm game rules.
Ready or not, it’s time to play! A day - or two or three - full of outdoor games will invoke a trip down memory lane for some adults, or a “this is great” thought for others. In either case, playing these games has tremendous benefits - young people can fully embrace human connection, get a break from the instant gratification associated with technical devices and social media, and enjoy some good wholesome, age-appropriate fun. Many adults admit they played many of their favorite childhood games well into their teen years, and still others say they relish in a good game of dodgeball or tug of war today. This list is not all-inclusive, but it certainly gets the games started!
“READY OR NOT, IT’S TIME TO PLAY!”
CHILDHOOD GAMES
TUG OF WAR - contest between two teams at opposite ends of a rope; each team trying to drag the other across a center line.
SACK RACE - stand in your sack, hold on to the top of your sack and hop as fast as you can to the finish line!
FREEZE TAG - each player freezes when tagged and can be unfrozen only by a player who is not yet frozen. Game ends when all players are frozen.
RED LIGHT GREEN LIGHT - shout “green light” and all players run towards you, shout “yellow light” and they are allowed to walk, but when “red light” is shouted, they must stop and freeze. If player moves at “red light”, they go back to start line.
MUSICAL CHAIRS - walk to music around a group of chairs containing one chair fewer than number of players, and rush to sit down when music stops. The player left standing in each round is eliminated.
KICK THE CAN - find players in their hiding spots and put them in “jail”. Once a player is “jailed” the only way to be freed is for another player to beat the “IT” person to the can and kick it.
DODGEBALL - team sport in which players on two teams try to throw balls and hit opponents, while avoid being hit themselves. Consider water balloons instead of balls on a hot day.
There are more great outdoor games. Get unplugged and get outside!
