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...

September 2024

Food + Beverage

Autumn's Cozy Cravings

Fall's fresh offerings nourish the soul and perfectly attune with what the body craves Article and Photography by Klaudia Burian Jean jackets and scarves are making their way out of the closet, and a deeper dive reveals well-loved, fuzzy boots, tucked lovingly under a pile of flip flops and summer toys. The fleece just hangs on the banister now. It's a rare day when a leaf doesn’t blow in, ride along in the car, or perhaps even end up in a friend's hair. All around, there is a tapestry of...

September 2024

Life + Culture

Heady Cup Coffee Roasters

The Journey of Two Childhood Friends Chasing A Dream Article by Katie Bobrow We've all heard some version of the saying, "Find a job you love, and you'll never work a day in your life." It might sound a bit like an exaggeration, but for Michael Kivland and Kevin Foglesong, it's a mantra that rings true. The two friends met in middle school, bonding over a mutual love of baseball and the legendary Wu-Tang Clan. Their friendship grew from there, spanning years, cities, and career changes. From...

September 2024

Life + Culture

Serving Up Leadership

Exploring How the Mayor's Love for Traditional Cooking Reflects His Unique Approach and Dedication to Service and Community Connection. Article by Patti Noble | Photography by Sharmila Taylor Leading a city and managing a successful business requires dedication, adaptability, and versatility; qualities that define Mayor Haig Haleblian.  Add to that, passionate, inclusive, eclectic, and open-minded, and you have a window into the man who, beyond his professional roles, is known for his...

September 2024

Food + Beverage

Hibiscus Hiatus

Sip on something different while supporting a local non-profit providing services in our community Article by Patti Noble | Photography by Grace Jackson When the your taste buds are yearning for something more than the usual iced tea or lemonade, this vibrant, non-alcoholic drink stands out.  What makes this drink even more special is that you'll find it, and many others, at The Other Side, downtown Crystal Lake.  Owned and operated by the nonprofit, New Directions Addiction Recovery...

September 2024

Life + Culture

Dining in Retirement

When food is more than just a meal—it’s a way to bring people together Article by Katie Bobrow At Huntley Springs, dining is more than just a meal—it's an experience that combines luxury, comfort, and exceptional service. Led by Executive Chef Ryan Byrnes, who brings over 25 years of culinary expertise, the community offers a unique dining program that brings joy to residents daily. Alongside Community Managers Colleen and Dwayne Bosse, who have a deep passion for hospitality, Huntley Springs...

September 2024

Life + Culture

Kindred Spirits

How a destined friendship blossomed into a thriving business partnership and enduring bond Article by Patti Noble | Photography by Sharmila Taylor Friendships take on many forms and come into our lives for different reasons—some last only for a season, while others go the distance. Sometimes, what starts as a "friendship for a reason" evolves into a lifelong bond.  Julia Pucci and Lauren Schubert, co-owners of Shine Salon and Dry Bar in Huntley, are certain that's the kind of connection they...

August 2024

Life + Culture

Motorcycles: More Than Metal and Rubber

A Journey of Adventure, Freedom, and Brotherhood Article by Katie Bobrow Motorcycle riding is more than just a mode of transportation. For many it is a passion that transforms into a lifestyle. Riding becomes a way to express individuality, a bond shared with others, and an exciting journey that brings relief from the mundane. Riders come from diverse backgrounds; their motorcycles telling a unique story, reflecting the rider's personality and style. From adventure motorcycles to road glides...

August 2024

Food + Beverage

Pass the Puttanesca

Standing the test of time - The history and virtue of dining family style Article by Klaudia Burian Sharing meals with loved ones is not only timeless, but as essential to the human spirit as the quality of the food itself. For connoisseurs of cuisine, exploring new dining trends is a favorite pastime. Whether the trend is farm to table, alfresco, formally plated or casual, family or friends breaking bread together never goes out of style.  Deeply rooted in cultures across the globe...

August 2024

Food + Beverage

Peas, Please

From side dish to main meal, this tasty combo is sure to delight Article and Photography by Klaudia Burian Creamy eggplant, a sweet crunch of peas and freshness of lemon awakens the senses in this vibrant dish Snow Peas with Eggplant Ingredients: 2 handfuls snow peas 6 baby eggplants, halved 2 cloves garlic, chopped Zest of 1 lemon Juice of half a lemon Salt and pepper 1 tbs butter Olive oil   Directions: Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Step 1. Coat eggplants with oil, salt...

August 2024