Travel

Another Side to Las Vegas

Skip the Gaming and Take a Hike, Ride a Bike, See a Show and More. Article and Photography by Michael Beightol The skyline of Las Vegas became even more distinctive in 2023 with the addition of a 366-feet tall spherical building that represents a new form of entertainment. Aptly named The Sphere, it adds to the ever-growing collection of non-gambling attractions in one of the fastest growing metros in the United States. Casinos are still big business, but an increasing number of visitors are...

Life + Culture

For the Love of Horses

High Finance Farm Is the Place Locally Where Lifelong Bonds are Forged and Equestrian Dreams Come True. Article by Michael Beightol | Photography by John DiTallo, Chris Rossman Driving on Gilmer Road in the northeast corner of Hawthorn Woods there is a distinctive looking fence that seems to go on forever. Past the fencing there are a variety of paddocks and pastures that signal the presence of horses.  I almost missed the driveway but saw it at the last second, drawn by fluttering banners...

Wellness

Local Spaces for Personal Wellness

Seek Out Your Own Spaces or Learn More About What We Like. Article by Michael Beightol | Photography by Stephen Neilson, Bob Berellez and Provided Personal wellness takes many forms. It’s not just a good night’s sleep, regular exercise and a healthy diet; it’s also self-care, spending time outside, practicing mindfulness, continuous learning and much more. We're blessed with an abundance of spaces and businesses locally making it easier to engage in wellness, and we are proud to share a...

Arts + Culture

What We Love Locally

Places to Spark Imagination and Introspection. Article by Michael Beightol | Photography by Michael Beightol & Stephen Neilson Wandering SW Lake County reveals something new and charming nearly every time. Stray off of Rand Road with its ever-increasing (and needed) commercialism to visit classic small towns and hidden off-the beaten-track spaces where whole new worlds are revealed. What we love locally is often found in quiet places and spur-of-the-moment fun. Lucky for us there is an...

Arts + Culture

Giants, Dragons and Unicorns

Exploring the Origins of Our Myths, Stories and Legends Article by Christina Sikorski | Photography by Jennifer Nickels, Christina Sikorski, Christopher Sikorski Here, there be dragons… but only until February 2. As part of a touring exhibit from the American Museum of Natural History, the Ela Area Public Library is showcasing "Giants, Dragons, & Unicorns: The World of Mythic Creatures," focusing on history and legend. Mythical creature narratives have existed for centuries, and this...

Fitness

Your Fitness Goals 2025

Rely on Diet, Exercise, Well-Being, Sleep, and Finding Joy to Nurture a Better Self. Article by Michael Beightol | Photography by Janie Jones As we step into 2025, setting and achieving fitness goals remains a top priority for many. Comprehensive wellness includes a balanced diet, consistent exercise, mental well-being, quality sleep, and, importantly, finding joy in the journey. Here’s a roadmap to help you craft a healthier and more joyful you this year. Balanced Diet Nutrition is the...

Wellness

Plant-Based Eating

Eat Fresh Fruits, Vegetables and Grains to Get Benefits Adding Years to Your Life. Article by Claudia Martin Ayoade | Photography by Janie Jones If you think a plant-based diet is strictly for vegans or vegetarians, think again. Plant-based eating is more of a lifestyle than a diet. You are simply eating more foods that are closer to their harvested state with minimal processing.  Meatless diets have been shown to improve health outcomes by lowering the risk of developing heart disease...

Life + Culture

Bucking the Trend: A Healthy Public Space Grows Healthier

Lake County Acquires Deer Park Property for Expansion and Future Preservation of Cuba Marsh. Article by Kim Mikus | Photography by Michael Beightol For the last 36 years the Lake County Forest Preserves Board of Commissioners has pursued the acquisition of a small but critical parcel in Deer Park. In November – after reaching an agreement with the landowner – the purchase of a 9.4-acre property will complete the expansion of the Cuba Marsh Forest Preserve.    The land, south-adjacent to Cuba...

Sports + Recreation

Burling: It's a THING.

A Candid Conversation with the Commish, at a Critical Crossroads Article by Stephen Neilson | Photography by John Bader, Aaron Hechtman, Stephen Neilson Let it never be said that the locally-born-and-bred winter sport of competitive Burling could possibly be considered a mere excuse for people to gather together, drink beer and other wonderful winter-inspired beverages, and while away the wilding winter weather with friends flinging frozen jugs at cans of corn careening across...

Arts + Culture

Art/Farm D'Tour: The Gift of Experience

Traveling the Wisconsin Driftless Region on a Day Off Rewards in So Many Ways. Article and Photography by Michael Beightol It was a drop-dead gorgeous Wednesday in mid-October during an otherwise pedestrian workweek when we piled the dogs in the car and pointed the Buick to points north and west; destination known but not yet imagined. A little more than two hours later we were driving at a leisurely pace along the hilly farm roads of the Wisconsin Driftless Region. This is the land west of...