Beauty

The Future of Hair Restoration

Article and Photography by Krystal Wilson’s journey into business ownership is deeply personal. After 14 years as a massage therapist with a loyal clientele, she felt ready to take the next step and open Body Fountain . But her decision wasn’t just about career growth—it was about family. With a special needs daughter who requires a lot of her time, owning her own business gave Krystal the flexibility to schedule around doctor’s appointments and daily needs. “I also knew that if she ever had...

Health + Wellness

Adventure Awaits

Your Guide to Getting Outdoors Locally Photography by Will County Forest Preserve District The Forest Preserve District of Will County offers something for everyone—from peaceful nature walks to exciting outdoor adventures. With over 41 preserves to explore, you’ll find scenic hiking and biking trails, fishing spots, campgrounds, birdwatching areas, and a variety of year-round events. Public Information Officer Cindy Cain encourages newcomers to start with nearby preserves and expand as they...

Auto + Marine

Road Trip Ready

Article and Photography by Summer is the perfect time to hit the road—whether you’re heading for the lake, the mountains, or just exploring backroads. But before you pack the snacks and cue up your playlist, it’s essential to make sure your vehicle is ready for the trip. We spoke with the team at Menard Automotive in New Lenox to get expert advice on summer car care—and why now’s the time to schedule that pre-trip checkup. Start with the essentials, the team advises: tire pressure and tread...

Fitness

Father's Day Activity Roundup

Article and Photography by Enjoy a few rounds of golf, at Sanctuary Golf Course in New Lenox, where beautifully maintained fairways and scenic landscapes create the perfect setting for golfers of all skill levels.  Adrenaline junkie? Head to The Forge: Lemont Quarries for nonstop thrills and family-friendly fun! From archery, paddleboats, and laser tag to sky-high ziplines, jungle gyms, and rock climbing, adventure awaits all day long! Explore the ruins of a 19th-century steel mill at Joliet...

Arts + Culture

Building Better Players:

Coach Jake Zajc's Approach to Building Character Through Baseball Article and Photography by At Lincoln-Way West, coaching baseball is about far more than balls and strikes. For Head Coach and Assistant Athletic Director Jake Zajc, it’s a daily opportunity to help young athletes become disciplined, resilient, and team-minded individuals prepared for life both on and off the field. "I just read this the other day and really liked it," Zajc says. "'Your actions have to back up your desires.'...

Professional Services

Connecting the Dots

How Steve McGarry Simplifies Business Technology Article and Photography by For Steve McGarry, helping businesses make sense of their internet, voice, and data services isn’t just a job—it’s a calling. “McGarry Consulting is a technology and telecom consulting firm focused on helping small to mid-sized businesses better understand and manage their internet, voice, and data services,” he says. “We specialize in inventory and billing analysis to uncover cost savings, increase capacity, and...

Life + Culture

In Their Words

The Heart of Fatherhood Article and Photography by Fatherhood comes with no handbook, but it does come with plenty of memorable moments, hard-earned wisdom, and unexpected laughs. It's a role that challenges, rewards, humbles, and inspires—often all in the same day. Whether it's navigating sleepless nights, cheering from the sidelines, or offering advice (solicited or not), dads show up in countless ways that shape the lives of their children and families. To celebrate the men who fill this...

Health + Wellness

Why More Women Are Turning to Traditional Chinese Medicine

Introduction: The Quiet Revolution in Women’s HealthAcross the globe, women are increasingly turning to Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)—not just for alternative relief, but as a primary source of deep, systemic healing. Why? Because TCM has been dedicated to women's health for over 2,000 years, long before modern medicine recognized hormonal health as a specialty.From PMS to PCOS, fertility support, and menopausal care, TCM offers individualized, holistic care that works in harmony with the...

Fitness

From Passion to Profit

Article and Photography by Turning a passion into a thriving business takes more than just talent—it requires vision, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to growth. In our community, four women have done just that, transforming what they love into successful careers. Amy Nielsen, one of the founders of Spenga, built a fitness brand that’s redefining the industry. Margie Janes turned her love of storytelling into a published author’s journey. Dr. Lauren Mansell empowers women through...

Fitness

Beyond the Glass Slipper

How Cinder Ella and Ballet 5:8 Empower Women Through Dance Article and Photography by For centuries, Cinderella has been a story of transformation, typically focused on a young woman whose fate changes through magic and a prince’s affection. But in Cinder Ella , Ballet 5:8’s latest production, the transformation is her own—a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and empowerment. Ballet 5:8’s Artistic Director, Julianna Slager, describes Cinder Ella as more than a retelling—it’s a...