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Life + Culture
What Matters Most
A warm reflection on first responder holiday traditions that keep their hearts close to home. Article by Klaudia Burian | Photography by David Bradburn In a charming historic midwestern town, with Main Street and a train running through it, neighbors and window shoppers saunter about town, and relish in the magic of the season. Or take a walk past timeless established lakeside homes noticing warm scenes taking place inside the deeply loved and cared for dwellings along the way. December brings...
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Life + Culture
Capturing Community Through Their Lens
How two local visual artists bring heart, friendship and connection to everything they create Article by Patti Noble | Photography by David Bradburn & Sharmila Taylor Each month, we introduce our readers to individuals who help define our community. Sharing a person’s story so that it may inspire, validate, uplift, or relate to others is one of the greatest joys of my work. As someone who values connection and relatability, this month’s feature is especially meaningful to me because I have...
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Life + Culture
Home for the Holidays
College breaks and rediscovering what home means Article by Katie Bobrow We’ve all been there before, either on the leaving end or the welcoming home end, maybe both. When the shape of home changes, it can feel complicated. The house looks the same, but the rhythm of it has shifted. The rooms that once held daily routines now hold memories, and when everyone returns under one roof for the holidays, it takes a moment to find that groove again. But change, while sometimes bittersweet, can also...
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Life + Culture
Kindred Spirits
Veterans and Wild Mustangs Rebuilding Together Article by Katie Bobrow | Photography by Sharmila Taylor Some people, some places, you just know are special. It’s in the way they speak with sincerity, the way they make you feel the moment you arrive. There’s a place like this in Bull Valley, Illinois. Operation Wild Horse is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit run by Patti Gruber and her assistant director, Megan Townsend. On a blazing August day, I had the opportunity to visit. The winding, tree-lined drive...
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Message from the Publisher
Steve Rogers
Our publication is a community-focused magazine that aims to connect the residents to the people, places and things that make Crystal Lake and our surrounding communities special. We are inspired by the unique atmosphere Crystal Lake has, and we highlight the most positive aspects of living here. From locally owned businesses to inspirational residents, these pages will be your guide.
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