Life + Culture

Beyond the Ballfield

Cultures Connect, Bonds are Built, Friendships Take Root Article by Patti Noble | Photography by Provided When a teenager from halfway around the world arrives with a suitcase, a baseball glove, and a mix of nerves and excitement, it’s not just the start of a tournament—it’s the beginning of something much bigger. Local host families might begin the week eager to share their corner of the world, but they often find themselves just as enriched by what they receive in return. What unfolds over...

Life + Culture

Adventure Calling

Seeking Adventure Wherever That May Be Article by Katie Bobrow | Photography by Alex Rogers Adventure. A word that means many different things to different people and often shifts in meaning as we move through life. What once seemed mundane or boring at twenty may sound exhilarating at forty-five. But no matter how you define it, adventure always means stepping outside your comfort zone and embracing something new. For Alex Rogers, that meant hitting the road in his van three and a half years...

Food + Beverage

Artisan Grilled Cheese

This month’s invitation is to elevate a traditional sandwich to a worthy new level. Article and Photography by Klaudia Burian Artisanal fare has made a powerful resurgence in towns around the country. Food and drink made in traditional simple ways, offers a moment of paying homage to culinary creators of the past, reviving their legacy. Bread, cheese, heirloom vegetables and small batch beers offer an opportunity to awaken the senses and please the palate. A variety of microbrewed beers can...

Local Services

The Heart of the Work

Grounded in service, lifted by compassion and shared purpose Article by Patti Noble | Photography by Sharmila Taylor & Samantha Murphy In a company built on service calls, it’s the quiet call to serve and the way employees pour into their community that really stands out.  The spirit of giving, support, and ‘paying it forward’ is deeply woven into the culture at Black Diamond Plumbing and Mechanical.  What began in 1999 as a plumbing and sewer company, today has grown into a multi-division...

Food + Beverage

Awaken the Palate

Crafted layers of taste, that unfold beautifully, creating a multi-sensory dining delight Article by Patti Noble | Photography by Patti Noble & Katie Bobrow In recent years, microbreweries have surged in popularity, becoming gathering hubs where every brew tells a story. Robust and zesty, velvety smooth, or hoppy–the flavors and combinations seem endless and when thoughtfully paired, craft beers can transform a simple meal into a symphony of flavors, enhancing the nuances of both and creating...

Health + Wellness

Nourishing Men's Wellness

A spotlight on foods for optimal health for men Article by Klaudia Burian NBC-HWC Take care of your body when you’re young, and it will take care of you when you’re old” –Jack Burrian, 87, when asked about longevity. This month takes a closer look at what men really want at any age. When interviewed, the common threads became clear. Most men want to be respected, provide for their family, have fun, connect with their partner, build and maintain muscle and strength, eat tasty food but not have...

Style + Beauty

Styled for HIm

From laid-back looks to grooming goods, we’ve got him covered this June. Article and Photography by Gina Jasovic June is often a time to honor the father figures in our lives — the ones who teach, support, and show up in countless quiet ways. Whether you're celebrating a dad, grandpa, stepdad, or someone who's simply stepped in with love, we’ve rounded up a few thoughtful gift ideas to make them feel seen and appreciated.   Help him start the morning celebrating the joy of Italian...

Life + Culture

Bond Between Brothers

How three brothers learned to move from rivalry to respect—and why strong male friendships matter. Article and Photography by David Bradburn Relationships, much like the tides, experience a natural ebb and flow—periods of closeness followed by times of distance.This rhythm is also true  between brothers, whether connected by blood or shared experiences. While the dynamics may shift over time, the significance of brotherhood remains steadfast. These bonds and their evolving nature, the...

Life + Culture

Living With Purpose

Four remarkable men reflect on full lives shaped by love, resilience, and meaningful connections Article by Katie Bobrow | Photography by Sharmila Taylor At Huntley Springs, a retirement community in Huntley, Illinois, time seems to slow down just enough to let stories of yesteryear take center stage. And if you listen closely, the men who live there will take the time to tell you what really matters. Their lives are filled with chapters of service, family, loss, reinvention, and joy, not just...

Food + Beverage

Springtime Cheer

Celebrate the season with a vibrant white sangria Article and Photography by Patti Noble Whether you're catching up with your closest friends on a sunny spring afternoon or savoring a well-spent day with your mom, sister or aunt, there's something special about gathering over a pitcher of crisp, refreshing white sangria. This bright, flavorful, fruit-filled cocktail is the perfect companion for laughter, stories, meaningful conversation, and making memories with the ones who know you best...