Food + Beverage

Explore Local Nourishment

The whimsy and diverse nature of a local farmer’s market invites curiosity, imagination and exploration. Article and Photography by Klaudia Burian Once upon a time, there was a little boy named Jacob. Jacob’s mama loved to nourish his curiosity, grow a love in him for exploring nature’s nourishment, and create space for him to explore his wild. When Jacob was 5, he was already a pro at eating his way through a garden. He knew to hold up the fruit or veggie and ask if it was ok to eat. When he...

July 2024

Real Estate

Going All In

A realtor's journey from business owner to dedicated realtor, highlighting her commitment to clients, family, and community. Article by Katie Bobrow In a town full of realtors, it is often hard to figure out which one to use when you are buying or selling a home. And while there are many wonderful realtors here in Crystal Lake, we were able to sit down with one of them and talk about not just her business but her life, her journey into real estate, her time here in Crystal Lake and her travels...

June 2024

Home Services

A United Front

How Aaron and Shelly's Partnership Blends Business Success with Adventure, Exploration and Playfulness, Inspiring Everyone Around Them Article by Patti Noble | Photography by Sharmila Taylor [Page 2] If you ever need evidence that true partnerships exist, look no further:  Meet Shelly and Aaron Poling, undeniably destined to be together.  Not only do they share a life, but they also run a successful garage door installation, service, and repair business side by side. Their union is marked...

June 2024

Food + Beverage

Vodka Berry Smash

A delicious and refreshing cocktail, perfect for sunny days and warm summer nights Article by Patti Noble | Photography by Grace Jackson   Looking to elevate your summer gathering?  This refreshing cocktail combines the sweet and tangy flavors of fresh berries with the smooth kick of vodka, making it the perfect companion for your backyard BBQs and summer parties. Whether you're hosting a casual cookout or a festive celebration, this Vodka Berry Smash is sure to impress your guests and bring...

June 2024

Home + Design

Grills for Every Budget

Don't let the stress of choosing a grill keep you from enjoying BBQ this Summer Article by Katie Bobrow As we approach the season of sun tans and sprinklers, warm nights and laughing neighborhood children, we also approach the time of year that has everyone dusting off their grills and their smokers for those backyard BBQs.   As the days grow longer and the temperatures rise, there is something magical about the aroma of sizzling meats and vegetables in the air. Outdoor cooking is often...

June 2024

Home + Design

A Safety Exploration

Essential tips for enjoying injury-free celebrations this 4th of July and beyond Article by Patti Noble | Photography by David Bradburn & Grace Jackson This summer season, it is essential to prioritize safety to ensure your celebrations remain joyful and accident-free.  While enjoying personal fireworks is often a popular way to celebrate, it’s crucial to handle them with care to prevent injuries.  According to the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, 73% of personal firework injuries...

June 2024

Health + Wellness

Breaking Barriers

Empowering Men to Take Charge of Their Health Article by Katie Bobrow In today’s busy world where there are an infinite number of things to keep track of, from managing a household and finances, and juggling numerous tasks, to the never-ending list of things that are “good” for us or “bad” for us (that seem to be constantly changing). It is unsurprising that men frequently prioritize other matters over their physical health. According to the Cleveland Clinic, more than 50% of men do not see a...

May 2024

Food + Beverage

Summer Grill Recipes

These Delicious Recipes are Light, Bright and Feel Like Summer Article by Katie Bobrow The sun has returned, and grilling season is upon us. With the nice weather comes vegetable gardens and fresh produce, along with the overwhelming desire to be outside as much as possible. We’ve compiled some fresh and light dishes that you can shop for at your local farmers market and whether you’re looking for a quick mid-week meal or something to grill for a crowd on the weekend these dishes won’t...

May 2024

Life + Culture

If I Could Turn Back Time

Men reflect on their younger selves and share their words of wisdom through the lens of experience Article by David Bradburn & Patti Noble Men, like all individuals, navigate a complex journey of self-discovery, face unique challenges and triumphs, and gain diverse perspectives along the way.  What if they could journey back to pivotal moments in their lives and offer guidance to their younger selves?  Would they find kinship through shared circumstances?  We asked Crystal Lake City Lifestyle...

May 2024

Life + Culture

A Path Toward Understanding Dad

Embracing complexity and finding peace in an evolving relationship Article by Steve Rogers, Publisher February 21, 2024.   A date that will forever be marked as the day my dad died, just 6 days after his 85th birthday, from pancreatic cancer that had spread to his kidneys and liver. The man with a handshake you could never forget, the family provider who ruled his home with authority, someone who outwardly seemed unconcerned with others’ opinions of him, and who was competitive at his core...

May 2024