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...

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.'...

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...

Home + Design

The Spring Refresh

Article and Photography by As the seasons shift, many homeowners feel inspired to refresh their living spaces. Diane DeCero, an expert interior designer, shares some easy and effective ways to breathe new life into your home this spring. Her first suggestion? Start with a fresh coat of paint. "A home should be repainted every 5 to 7 years, though it’s often overlooked," Diane says. Painting not only revitalizes a space but can also spark a chain reaction of updates. After a fresh coat on the...

Food + Beverage

Enrico's Celebrates 50 Years of Flavor and Tradition

Article and Photography by This year, Enrico’s Italian Restaurant celebrates its 50th anniversary. What began as a small carry-out pizza place in Frankfort has grown into a beloved local institution known for its authentic Italian cuisine, welcoming atmosphere, and strong community ties. We sat down with owner Harry D’Ercole to reflect on the restaurant’s journey and enduring success. The D’Ercole family’s restaurant journey started in 1969 when Harry’s parents bought a small truck stop, the...

Fitness

Breaking Barriers

The Lincoln-Way Girls Wrestling Team's Historic First Season Article and Photography by Four years ago, the Illinois High School Association (IHSA) officially sanctioned girls’ wrestling as an independent sport. Since then, participation has surged across the state, and Lincoln-Way has quickly emerged as a powerhouse. Under the leadership of Coach Josh Napier, the inaugural Lincoln-Way girls wrestling team has not only established itself but has dominated in competition, setting the stage...