Finance + Legal Services

More Than Finance

A Father and Son Duo Investing in Their Community Article by Katie Bobrow | Photography by Sharmila Taylor Tim O’Connor, with 40 years of experience under his belt, proudly works alongside his son, Patrick, at their Ameriprise Financial Services firm in Huntley. Tim often jokes that Patrick is on a 15-year internship, but behind the humor lies a deep pride and hope that one day, Patrick will carry on the family business. Watching Patrick grow into his role as a financial advisor is something...

Food + Beverage

Festive and Bright

No matter the holiday, celebrations commence around brightly lit tables and winter's delightful playground Article by Klaudia Burian What makes this time of year so festive and meaningful? Between the end of November and the 1st few weeks of January, the calendar is a kaleidoscope of holiday gatherings, celebrations, and traditions. Taking a step back from the bustle of it, and really settling in with loved ones, around some delicious food and warm drinks, can be the best gift. Hitting the...

Life + Culture

Winter Wonderlands

Exploring McHenry County's Great Outdoors Article by Katie Bobrow | Photography by Patty Bell This season, why not explore serene trails, frozen lakes, and winter wildlife at Glacial Park, Marengo Ridge, Fox Bluff, and Pleasant Valley. McHenry County offers plenty of outdoor winter fun with breathtaking natural spaces maintained and preserved by the McHenry County Conservation District. For picturesque, snow-covered scenery, Glacial Park in Ringwood is a top spot with expansive trails...

Life + Culture

Bringing Joy to Children in Need

A Look Inside the "Shop With a Cop" Program Article by Katie Bobrow December is here, and for many, it comes with a sense of cheer, hope, and anticipation. Making memories filled with cozy fires, Christmas trees, sugary cookies, and brightly wrapped packages. However, there are some in our own community who face this season with worry and uncertainty, wondering how to provide a holiday for their families. Each year, for those whose reality may be heavier during the holiday season, Crystal...

Life + Culture

Gratitude and Giving

How Generosity Enriches Our Lives and Communities Article by Katie Bobrow As we approach the season of giving, it's the perfect time to reflect on how deeply intertwined generosity and gratitude are, and how they impact both individuals and the community. In McHenry County, we see this connection through the work of nearly 2,000 nonprofits that rely on the kindness of community members to keep their doors open and their missions alive. The Community Foundation for McHenry County is at the...

Life + Culture

Rooted in Compassion

A couple’s journey of giving back and creating lasting impact in their community Article by Patti Noble | Photography by Sharmila Taylor We’ve all heard a version of the saying, what we give to others often returns to us in unexpected and deeper, more fulfilling, ways. But how many of us have actually put that belief to the test?    With busy schedules, family responsibilities, and endless to-do lists, it’s easy to push helping others aside. Yet, for Marilyn and Paul Georgy, giving back is...

Food + Beverage

A Cornucopia of Gratitude and Virtue

In cultures around the world, and dating back as far as 3000 years, a horn of plenty and abundance adorns tables across the globe. Article by Klaudia Burian | Photography by David Bradburn and Klaudia Burian A cornucopia's personality and gifts are uniquely native to the region, represented by a diverse collection from the land. She is often filled with flowers and fruit, to celebrate and show gratitude for the harvest, the gracious receipt of nourishment from what was sown. As the year...

Food + Beverage

Chilled Cheers to Sip and Savor

Crystal Lake Junction shares their tasty recipes. Stop in or test your skills at home! Article by Patti Noble | Photography by Grace Jackson Junction New York Sour A twist on the original New York Sour with a striking visual element and a balance of sweet, sour, and fruity notes. Ingredients: 1.5 oz Crown Royal whiskey 2 oz lemon juice 2 oz simple syrup (see our recipe in the February issue) Pinot Noir Directions: 1.  Fill a short Collins glass with ice. 2.  Add whiskey, lemon...

Life + Culture

Q&A with Sharon Fu

Managing the range of emotions that happen during the holiday season Article by Katie Bobrow As the colder months settle in, and the chaos of the holidays commence, many people notice shifts in mood and energy. When the focus of the holiday season is supposed to be family, connection, and all things magical, it can be isolating if you are having feelings of sadness or anxiety. However, if you feel this way you are not alone. In fact, there are two common challenges many face this time of year...

Food + Beverage

Baking With a Purpose

How Mary Disomma blends family influence and her skills with her passion for giving back Article by Patti Noble For Mary DiSomma, baking has been woven into the fibers of her life for as long as she can remember.  Growing up in an Italian-American family, where food was a love language, she watched her mother create hundreds of cookies to share with friends, neighbors, and family during the holidays, and later learned to bake traditional Italian sweets herself. Today, Mary is an enthusiastic...