Education

Growing Local Leaders

at the University of St. Francis Article by Nicole Swanberg Wright | Photography by Jean Lachat The University of St. Francis has long been a cornerstone of higher education in Joliet, and under President Dr. Ryan C. Hendrickson, its Franciscan mission feels more connected to the community than ever. Dr. Hendrickson’s journey to USF was shaped by a deep Catholic formation, from studying under Benedictine monks in his Nebraska high school to the Jesuit influence of his years at Marquette...

Finance + Legal Services

Loving Local

with Murray & Regan Law Article by Nicole Swanberg Wright | Photography by Jean Lachat For Murray & Regan Law, community isn’t just a concept—it’s a philosophy that guides every aspect of their work. With deep roots in the Lincolnway area, the firm aims to be more than a legal resource; it strives to strengthen the neighborhoods, schools, and businesses that define the region. “Community is more than just the people you see around or the local businesses; it is a feeling and a shared sense of...

Professional Services

Local Libraries, Lasting Impact

Discover how local libraries connect, inspire, and support the Lincolnway community Article by Nicole Swanberg Wright | Photography by Jean Lachat Libraries across the Lincolnway area have quietly evolved into something far greater than many residents remember. While books remain central, today’s libraries serve as creative studios, learning hubs, community gathering spaces, and gateways to opportunity. In Frankfort, Manhattan, Mokena, and New Lenox, local libraries reflect the unique needs of...

Entertainment

Stories in Song

Custom music, local sound Article by Nicole Swanberg Wright | Photography by Chris Moran   For Tim Camino, music became a bridge between emotion and expression — especially when words felt hard to say out loud. What began as a personal solution to a public fear soon became a powerful way to connect people through their most meaningful moments. Tim, the founder of Songs From the Heart, never set out to start a business. A lifelong songwriter, he had always used music as a creative outlet...

Entertainment

Open Mic Round-Up

Article by Nicole Swanberg Wright For musicians, singers, poets, and anyone who loves live performances, the Lincolnway area offers a lively open mic scene perfect for sharing talent or enjoying a night of local creativity. On Tuesdays, Social 45 in Frankfort welcomes performers to share songs, stories, or spoken word, while New Lenox’s Hickory Creek Brewing Company offers a cozy, intimate weekly open mic. Every other Wednesday, Trail’s Edge in Frankfort gives local artists a chance to shine...

Beauty

Kiwi + Coral

Clean Skincare, Created by Moms Who Get It Article by Nicole Swanberg Wright | Photography by Chris Moran Kiwi + Coral was born from a familiar parenting dilemma: trendy skincare that isn’t made for young, sensitive skin. For longtime friends Sandi Braun and Carrie Diemer, it was one Sephora trip too many that sparked an idea and eventually a brand. The two met more than 20 years ago while working at the same salon and reconnected two years ago when their daughters, Kaitlyn and Olivia Diemer...

Health + Wellness

Dive Into Wellness

How a Home Pool Can Transform Your Health Article by Nicole Swanberg Wright Pools at home offer more than fun in the sun; they provide a convenient way to boost fitness, relieve stress, and strengthen family connections. Even in the middle of winter, it’s the perfect time to plan your backyard oasis and book a consultation with Aqua Pools so you’re ready when warmer months arrive. “Having a pool at home makes it easy and fun to stay active,” says Emily Plaszewski of Aqua Pools. “Whether it’s...

Health + Wellness

Understanding Sensory Integration:

How Kids Can Do Supports Children and Families Article by Nicole Swanberg Wright | Photography by Jean Lachat For many families, the first hints that something feels “off” can be hard to describe. A child who avoids certain clothes, melts down during transitions, or seems constantly in motion may not simply be “misbehaving.” At Kids Can Do in Mokena, those moments are often understood through the lens of sensory integration — the process that shapes how children experience and respond to the...

Health + Wellness

Fit for Life

How Body Tech Total Fitness Supports Long-Term Health and Well-Being Article by Nicole Swanberg Wright | Photography by Jean Lachat For more than two decades, Body Tech Total Fitness has been a cornerstone of the local fitness community, offering what owner Steve Tomczak proudly calls “the most well-rounded fitness experience in the south suburbs.” Established in 2002, the gym has grown into a full-service wellness destination with more than 250 pieces of strength and cardio equipment...

Health + Wellness

A Balancing Act

Article by Nicole Swanberg Wright | Photography by Jean Lachat Staying balanced in the new year (literally and figuratively) can feel like a challenge. But for New Lenox resident and unicyclist Alex Gorusch, balance is a daily practice. Alex’s unicycling story began long before he realized it. For his 11th birthday, his maternal grandfather surprised him with his first unicycle—an unexpected gift sparked by a moment of curiosity after Alex saw someone riding one on his way to school. Only...