Issuu

D E C E M B E R 2 02 3

S N A P S H OT O F H O M E S S O L D I N 2 0 2 3

Reflecting on a year of moving milestones... We are beyond grateful for your continued support and friendship and giving us the opportunity to serve your real estate needs

WHEN MARKETING MATTERS CONTACT RENEE CLARK HOMES! • FREE STAGING • Custom Tailored Marketing • Local and Global Exposure • Concierge Service from Initial Contact through Final Sale (and longer)

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“Our experience with Renee exceeded our expectations. She is extremely professional, delivers a great service and does what she says she will. She represented us on both the sale of our home and purchase of our new one. Renee goes above and beyond to ensure you get the best result. Her communication skills are exceptional, and she takes the time necessary to communicate all components of the complex process of buying or selling a home. We are thrilled to have selected her to represent us.” - Rick and Linda

A Snapshot of October Home Sales in SW Lake County SUBDIVISION

LIST

SOLD

SP:LP LMT BD/BA

SUBDIVISION

LIST

SOLD

SP:LP LMT BD/BA

Lakewood Estates Ponds of Kildeer

$650,000 $984,900 $525,000 $600,000 $650,000 $629,900 $495,000 $899,000

$737,000 $1,075,000 $572,500 $650,000 $700,000 $660,000 $515,000 $930,500

113% 109% 109% 108% 108% 105% 104% 104%

Lakewood Estates Royal Melbourne

$879,900 $1,024,900 $539,900 $829,000 $1,050,000 $1,890,000 $1,599,000 $825,000

$905,000 $1,050,000 $551,000 $840,000 $1,062,500 $1,900,000 $1,599,000 $825,000

103% 102% 102% 101% 101% 101% 100% 100%

Knottingwood Lakes

Chestnut Corners Tower Lakes Park Place Estates Forest Lake Promontory

10 1 3 15 7 4 4 12

4/3.2 4+1/4.2 4/2.1 4/2.1 4/3.1 4/2.1 3/3.2 4/3.2

Villas at The Commons

Sanctuary Club Hawthorn Trails Wynstone The Enclave Herons Landing

23 3 6 5 4 15 1 15

MLS statistics from 10/01/23-10/31/23. All information herein has not been verified and is not guaranteed. Featured properties may not be listed by the agent/office providing this data. Supplied by Renee Clark, @properties Christie’s International Real Estate.

4/3.1 4+1/4.1 3/2.1 4/3.1 4/4.1 4+1/5.1 5/4.1 5/4.0

December 2023 LIFESTYLE LETTER

The Holidays: the Hallelujah, and the River It’s coming on Christmas / they’re cutting down trees They’re putting up reindeer / and singing songs of joy and peace Oh, I wish I had a river / I could skate away on… —Joni Mitchell, “River” The holidays are here, and that oft-cherished yet oft-elusive “spirit of the season” wafts among us. We each yearn for it (or not), experience it (or not), and express it (or not) in our own time, in our own ways. It’s a time when a little kindness can go a very long way. In these times of tragedy and conflict near and far, it’s hard. Many can still embrace cherished family traditions and childhood memories of special holiday celebrations; many also view life through newer lenses prescribed by personal experience, filtering changes of circumstance into a new here-and-now of reshaped and sometimes shrinking circles of loved ones — creating new observances, and letting others go. Some sing songs of joy and peace. Some wish they had a river to skate away on. For some (like me), well… it’s both sides, now. (Thanks again, Joni.) Here in SW Lake County, I’m grateful for the rich variety of experiences in the towns where we live, and those nearby. Each December we connect you with the best people, places and activities to make your holidays special, and this year’s fully loaded. We highlight four unique local shopping experiences: the design wizardry and extraordinary jewelry at Timothy Grant; the stylish-yet-greatvalue fashion offerings at Threads (and the Santa-sized surplus of gift goodies at its companion store, Hometown Gift Shop); the meticulously-curated menswear at DIBI including the owner’s original designs and killer international brands; and the funtastic, eco-friendly, health-positive e-bikes now available at Pedego Wauconda. Wishing you a gaggle of grace, a preponderance of peace, a jellicle of joy, some sharpened skates, and all the river you need when you need it,

STEPHEN NEILSON, EDITOR @SWLAKELIFESTYLE

Scan QR code to visit our Instagram CIT YLIFEST YLE.COM/SWL AKE |

PUBLISHER

Michael Beightol | michael.beightol@citylifestyle.com EDITOR

Stephen Neilson | stephen.neilson@citylifestyle.com STAFF WR ITER

Christina Sikorski CONTR IBUTING WR ITER S

Angela Broockerd, Sean Lee, Stephen Neilson, Christina Sikorski CONTR IBUTING PHOTOGR APHER S

Graham Blus, Janie Jones, Sean Lee, Stephen Neilson, Peggy VaGenius

Corporate Team CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson DIRECTOR OF FIRST IMPRESSIONS Jennifer Robinson TECHNICAL DIRECTOR Josh Klein AD DESIGNER Whitney Lockhart LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier

Learn how to start your own publication at: citylifestyle.com//franchise Proverbs 3:5-6 SW Lake Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of the SW Lake area’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in SW Lake Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the

L I F E ST Y LE LE T T E R

accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

Thanks to our amazing clients for helping us shine this year!

Grateful to all our friends, families and clients for another record breaking year! Thank you once again for your unwavering support. It is because of you that we are able to do what we love every day. With our combined 50 years of results-oriented guidance, we can help you navigate these turbulent and confusing times. Please give us a call and check out our website for some of our most recent sales. Wishing you a joyous holiday (whichever ones you celebrate), and a prosperous and healthy New Year.

Heidi Seagren Founding Agent | Barrington Top Producer for 27 Years

847.306.0600 | heidiseagren@compass.com

Seagren Fine Homes is a team of real estate agents affiliated with Compass, a licensed real estate broker and abides by federal, state and local Equal Housing Opportunity laws.

DECEMBER 2023

inside the issue The Holidays & Giving Issue

F E ATU R E D

D E PA RTM E NTS

14 Thrive During the Holidays

Lifestyle Letter

City Scene

Business Monthly

Local Experiences

Healthy Lifestyle HEA LT H + W E L L N E SS

Local’s Choice S HO PPI NG

Must See LI FE + C U LT U R E

Culinary Creations FO O D + B E V E R AG E

Giving Back LI FE + C U LT U R E

Events

Making The Holidays a Little Less Stressful and a Lot More Enjoyable.

16 Unique Local Shopping Experiences

This Month Think About Supporting Family-Owned Businesses During the Holidays.

22 Christkindlmarket is a Holiday Tradition

With Three Locations Across Chicagoland, Visiting an Authentic German Holiday Market is Perfect for Families.

26 Holiday Entertaining Boards

The Holidays Are Here and Entertaining is in Full Swing. Here Are Two Perfect Options.

O N T H E C OV E R

Photography: Stephen Neilson Holiday wonders, captured at TreeTime Christmas Creations in Lake Barrington.

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DECEMBER 2023

city scene

Where neighbors can see and be seen. 1

7 5

1: “An Evening of Enlightenment,” the GPF Foundation’s Sixth Annual Event, featured best-selling author Don Winslow. 2: GPF Foundation’s commitment to harm reduction is supported by board members Karen Perlman and Lise Eliot. 3: Jeff Nack, Annette Kelly and Robi Drell enjoyed the setting at Northmoor Country Club. 4: Ross and Nancy Friedman (board president and treasurer) gave a remarkable progress report. 5: Nail Sabanagic and Fabiola Serrano, teachers from Hubbard High School. 6: Erica Rogina and Barry Goldberg share a laugh. 7: Lois Scheyer (with Paula Shopiro) is grandmother to Jon Scheyer, Duke University men’s basketball coach, who shared an inspiring video message. Photography by Graham Blus

Want to be seen in the magazine? Tag your Instagram photos with @SWLakeLifestyle

C I T Y SC E N E

WWW.TIMOTHYGRANTS.COM

Happy Holidays!

155 N RAND RD, LAKE ZURICH (847) 726-1556 10 S ROSELLE RD, SCHAUMBURG (847) 524-0033

155 N RAND RD, LAKE ZURICH (847) 726-1556 • 10 S ROSELLE RD, SCHAUMBURG (847) 524-

DECEMBER 2023

business monthly A round-up of exciting news from local businesses.

Grand Frame Expands to Downtown Barrington Downtown Barrington welcomed a new retailer recently – Grand Frame – at 235 E. Main Street. “We appreciate the warm welcome and feel so lucky to be a part of the community,” said co-owner Christina Grana. Specializing in custom framing, photo and art printing, picture hanging, photo restoration, fine art restoration, jersey framing, custom shadowboxes, and artwork curation, this is Grand Frame’s second location; the original shop is in Arlington Heights. More info at GrandFrameBarringtonIL.com.

New Spa, Avanti Body, Celebrates Lake Zurich Opening Avanti Body is a med spa with a full toolbox of innovations and specialized offerings – Red Light Therapy, Weight and Fat Loss, Cellulite Loss, Body Sculpting, Reverse Aging and Pain Relief – that powers progress in clients’ wellness goals. As part of a national expansion, the Lake Zurich spa (165 S. Rand Road) is the first Avanti Body in the Midwest, according to Andrea Dobkin, company president. Learn more at AvantiBody.com.

Event Venue Under Construction in SW Lake The Barn at Timber Pointe, a largescale event venue, is in the early stages of construction at the corner of Gilmer Road and Route 176. This is the second venue for the developer; their first project, The Barn at the Bog, is north of Milwaukee. Featuring farm rustic décor in a soaring space with a full-service bar, the SW Lake County venue will be popular for weddings, corporate events and larger gatherings. Learn more at TheBarnatTimberPointe.com.

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Get in touch by heading over to our landing page to connect: CityLifestyle.com/SWLake

B USIN E SS M ON T H LY

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Your Family’s Lawyer You’ve seen the barn on Rand Road. Now, meet the attorney who has his office there. Joe Menges specializes in family law at all stages of your life. Buying or selling a home? Updating your estate? Need to appeal a property tax assessment? Want to have a Living Will? Joe is qualified, experienced and prepared to help you. Real Estate Transactions & Negotiation • Property Management & Tenant/Landlord Issues • Estate Documents & Living Will Preparation Comprehensive Property Assessment Review

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DECEMBER 2023

local experiences The best places and things to do in our area.

‘Tis the season for tinsel, twinkling lights, and celebrating the holiday season! Partake in any one of our picks for local holiday happenings and rejoice in the joy and festive spirit around town.

Our Picks for Holiday Happenings HOMETOWN GIFT SHOP: Annually transforms into a holiday shop, perfect

for decor and gifts to suit anybody on your list. 118 S. Main Street, Wauconda. BAR R INGTON'S WHITE HOUSE: Be sure to check the online calendar for all the

holiday events at this convenient downtown venue. 145 W. Main Street, Barrington. MAGGIE DALEY PAR K ICE SKATING R IBBON: Sharpen your blades and head downtown for this ticketed (online) one-of-a-kind winter skating experience. 337 E. Randolph Street, Chicago. BR UNCH WITH SANTA: Lindy's Landing invites kids to bring parents and grandparents to this annual holiday event. Photos, too, with Santa! 115 Park Street, Wauconda. R UTH PAGE'S THE NUTCR ACKER : Uniquely-choreographed, classically-Chicago version of "The Nutcracker" at College of Lake County, December 16-17.

Scan for more photos and the full list. Hometown Gift Shop

Want to recommend a local experience? Scan the QR code and message us on Instagram.

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D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / S W L A KE

Thrive During the Holidays Simple Steps to Take for Making This Holiday Season a Little Less Stressful and a Lot More Enjoyable. ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY SEAN LEE

Stress. It’s everywhere. And it easily can kill your mood, energy, motivation, waistline and (especially this month) your holiday spirit. The question is: how will you manage it? Will you park yourself on the couch and down unhealthy treats, then beat yourself up and go into 2024 desperate to get in shape FAST (not a good strategy)... or will you find balance by enjoying everything the holidays have to offer, while still taking time to care for yourself? Shift your perspective to enjoy the holidays without losing sight of your health and well-being. Here’s how: Know Thyself: If tempting foods are at an upcoming party, manage your hunger beforehand. What foods/drinks fuel temptation for you? Who will you be there with? Are you hungry, stressed, or bored? With answers to these questions, you know your own “kryptonite” and can plan to succeed. Stay hydrated. Eat breakfast and lunch. Include protein, healthy fat, and some veggies. The protein and fiber will increase satiety (your body’s satisfaction

with what you’ve eaten) and quiet your hunger hormones. A protein snack an hour before a party helps keep hunger at bay. If friends or relatives pressure you, stress you out or try imposing their love through food, focus on what you can control – you! Set boundaries, and pick your pleasures wisely. Have a drink... or, if you know you’re going to have dessert, skip the drink. With a game plan, you can enjoy the things you love guilt-free. Exercise: Any time of the year stress is best managed with exercise. Choose something you enjoy to clear your head, calm your nerves, and stimulate feel-good endorphins. Decide how many days a week you’re going to exercise, and put it on your schedule. The benefit of exercising occurs in as little as 30 minutes. Exercising lowers stress, and boosts youth-enhancing hormones, energy and mood while burning calories. Be Consistent: Sounds too simple to work? Think again. Simple is the best approach because simple gets done!

A B O U T T H E AU T H O R : Sean Lee has been in the health and fitness indus-

try for 23 years as a speaker, author, and founder of Restoration Fitness. Lake Zurich’s award winning small group personal training studio. Visit RestorationFitness.com to learn more. Call 847.847.1837 to schedule a complimentary consultation.

D E PA RT M E N T | CATEG ORY

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D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / S W L A KE

Unique Local Shopping Experiences THIS MONTH THINK ABOUT SUPPORTING FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESSES DURING THE HOLIDAYS.

ARTICLE BY MICHAEL BEIGHTOL | PHOTOGRAPHY BY GRAHAM BLUS

ONE-OF-A-KIND Tim Siefert (a jeweler since 1985), is an award-winning gold and platinum expert. While he specializes in the design and crafting of custom pieces, his stores sell a broad line of manufacturer products, too. Make no mistake, this is not a mall jewelry store. Pursuit of a childhood fascination with gems meant leaving behind rock star and radio personality dreams, as Siefert learned the jewelry business from the ground up. With stops in Quincy and St. Louis, he eventually came to Chicago to manage a store. In 1992, Siefert started his business working from home. A few years later, after taking over a jewelry store in Lake Zurich, Timothy Grant Jewelry opened a retail shop. The second location opened in 2010 in Schaumburg.

LOCA L’S CH OICE | SHOPPI NG

Linda Starkey (owner of Threads and Hometown Gift Shop) is ready for the holidays.

Timothy Grant Jewelry provides classic design, as well as non-symmetrical shapes and extraordinary colors and textures. Visit them at 155 N. Rand Road (Lake Zurich) or 10 S. Roselle Road (Schaumburg).

HOMETOWN ROOTS Established in 2013 in downtown Wauconda, owner Linda Starkey says what sets her shop, Threads, apart is the selection of fashions, absent the high price tags found at most boutiques. Starkey and her team look for value for customers and have built trust over time by delivering the goods at a reasonable price. For the holidays Linda said she is especially proud of Threads’ “amazing sweaters that are very chic and fun to give... and receive.” Her favorite holiday memory occurred during a Wauconda Area Chamber Holiday Walk a few years ago. “The whole Threads team rode a toy train down Main Street dressed up like elves,” she said. “We had an absolute blast.”

Threads, and its companion Hometown Gift Shop, are located at 118 S. Main Street in the Main Street Center, a former bank building that Starkey and her husband, Glenn, bought and remodeled.

FASHION AND SERVICE Daniel Wimer founded DIBI in 2010 as a men’s fashion brand, designing, manufacturing and selling wholesale to shops across the country. Ten years later he opened his brick & mortar store on Highway 14 in Lake Barrington. “This year I added some great international brands that have resonated with my customer base because you can’t just find these in any store,” Wimer said. “My formal category now has more sport coats and suiting for those special occasions.” New and long-time customers remark about how easy and comfortable it is to shop at DIBI. “I like to think it’s a combination of style, careful curation, seasonal merchandising, CONTINUED >

D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / S W L A KE

When relaunching SW Lake in 2016 we committed to local support. Online or big box stores don’t keep money in the community like a family owned business does. Shop Local. and most importantly, a personalized and welcoming shopping experience for every customer whether you need wedding attire or a new outfit for dinner tonight,” Wimer said. Shop DIBI Menswear at 28686 W. Northwest Highway. New for the holidays are cold-weather accessories and contemporary layering pieces. Also, there’s “an athletic chino” for maximum comfort.

ROLLING AND ROCKING Four years ago Paul Wheatland opened a Pedego shop with top-of-the-line electric motorbikes, backed by great customer service and a 5-year warranty. “I’m thankful to be in the business of fun,” Wheatland said.

He’s especially proud of his Google reviews from customers: “My business motto is leave a trail of happy customers.” In 2024 Wheatland wants to continue serving fun and friendship: “Pedego e-bikes have changed the lives of so many of my customers.” Tops for his fondest holiday memories are spending time with his grandmother. “Christmas presents oozing out from under the tree,” Wheatland said. “Tremendous food and treats, and hours of card playing and Trivial Pursuit... the first edition.” Pedego Wauconda is at 513 S. Main Street, next door to Wheatland’s Main Street Outfitter which features live music four days a week, plus great home-cooked meals and adult beverages.

Paul Wheatland displays some of the new e-bikes at Pedego Wauconda.

LOCA L’S CH OICE | SHOPPI NG

Daniel Bruce Wimer features a variety of stylish menswear items for the holidays at DIBI.

Heirloom jewelry is brilliantly reinvented by Timothy Siefert at Timothy Grant Jewelry.

D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / S W L A KE

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Celebrating Threads' 10th Anniversary

SHOP THREADS FOR THE HOLIDAYS

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Painted Tree Boutiques 20771 N. Rand Rd. • Kildeer

WOMEN’S & MEN’S CLOTHING GIFTS & ACCESSORIES « FOR HOLIDAY GIFT GIVING

118 S. Main Street, Wauconda • 847-526-2058 B D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / S W L A KE

CHRISTKINDLM ARKET IS A HOL I DAY T R A DI T ION

ARTICLE BY MICHAEL BEIGHTOL PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY CHRISTKINDLMARKET

With Three Locations Across Chicagoland, Visiting an Authentic German Holiday Market is Perfect for Families.

Now in its 27th season, Christkindlmarket Chicago is the most authentic traditional holiday market of its kind outside of Europe, offering a special shopping experience, family-friendly events and intercultural activities. Originally established in downtown Chicago, the popularity of the market has prompted expansion to two other locations: Gallagher Way outside of Wrigley Field at Clark and Addison, and the banks of the Fox River in Aurora (360 N. Broadway). While different in scale – Daley Plaza is vast and crowded with holiday revelers – each offers a unique family-friendly experience. All three markets kick off on November 17. Daley Plaza and Aurora wrap up on December 24. The Wrigleyville market has an extended run until December 31.

M UST SE E | L IFE + CU LTURE

The Christkindlmarkets in the Chicago area unite cherished German and European traditions with international flair and local charm. The markets here take their inspiration from the 16th century in Nuremberg, Germany, one of the first outdoor markets of its kind. All three local venues are known for their vendors’ high-quality gifts, food and drink, holiday cheer, and for being an ideal place for families to make endearing memories. In 1995 the German American Chamber of Commerce of the Midwest Inc. (GACC Midwest) wanted a new way to promote bilateral trade between the USA and Germany. The leaders of the chamber initiated a partnership with city officials in Nuremberg. In 1996 a few companies from Germany, along with others based locally, launched the first Christkindlmarket at Pioneer Court in Chicago. A hit was born, so for the second year then-Mayor Richard M. Daley proposed moving the holiday market to the more spacious Daley Plaza. It has been a staple event on the plaza ever since.

CONTINUED >

D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / S W L A KE

With success comes growth, first at Wrigley Field and now in downtown Aurora. Expect crowds on the weekend, so a weekday visit, especially in the morning or late afternoon, provides a more leisurely experience and easier browsing for the perfect holiday gift at the gingerbread-like vendor stalls. Food is a big part of the experience, from giant pretzels to bratwurst and potato pancakes, and imported chocolates and tasty raclette (melted cheese served on a baguette). Why “Christkindlmarket?” The Christkind is a creature from folklore dating back to the 1500s. She’s (take note Santa)

FIVE HUNDRED YEARS AGO AT PARADES DURING THE HOLIDAY SEASON ONE “GRAND ANGEL” GUIDED THE WAY. SINCE THEN, AND STILL TODAY, SHE IS THE BEARER OF GIFTS TO MOST CHILDREN IN GERMANSPEAKING COUNTRIES, LEAVING PRESENTS UNDER A TREE AND DISAPPEARING WITHOUT SO MUCH AS A GLIMPSE BY ANYONE.

M UST SE E | L IFE + CU LTURE

a fairy-like being dressed in gold and white with a crown upon her golden locks. Since then, and still today, she is the bearer of gifts to most children in German-speaking countries. Traditionally, gifts are exchanged on December 24th and delivered by the Christkind, who leaves them under a Christmas tree and disappears before children can see her. An enduring feature of the Christkindlmarket Chicago are the ceramic mugs filled with glühwein, a warmly spiced red wine. Each year a new mug is commissioned, and long-time visitors happily collect the mugs for their own holiday gatherings. Find hours of operation and learn more about Christkindlmarket Chicago by visiting Christkindlmarket.com. Each of the Christkindl Markets are free to enter. Again this year the Chicago Cubs will host “Winterland at Gallagher Way” which includes the ice skating rink and a host of activities and rides inside Wrigley Field. Tickets are needed to get inside the ballpark (GallagherWay.com). Happy Holidays and Prost!

D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / S W L A KE

Holiday Entertaining Boards The holidays are here and entertaining is in full swing. If you are looking for the perfect appetizer to easily feed a crowd these simple and beautiful boards are sure to please.

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

Holiday Wreath Charcuterie Board • • • • •

Fig Jelly Honey Variety of Cheeses Salami or meat of choice Olives (provide a variety)

• Walnuts, Pecans, Pistachios and any favorite nut • Grapes, berries, persimmon • Crackers

Place the jars of sauces and olives on the board first. Next place the cheeses on opposing sides. Add meats and fruits next. Layer in crackers, nuts and seeds and fill in any spots with extra nuts. Use fresh Rosemary or fresh greenery to add wreath accent in the center of the charcuterie board. Garnish with fresh cranberries. CONTINUED >

D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / S W L A KE

Sweet Treat Cocoa Board • • • • • • • • •

A variety of fresh berries or desired fruit Marshmallows Hot Cocoa Mix Chocolate Covered Pretzels Chocolate Covered Cherries Chocolate Covered Graham Crackers Chocolate Covered Biscotti Hot Cocoa Bomb Holiday Cookie Cutter

C ULIN A RY C R E AT ION S | F OOD + BE VE RAGE

Place your favorite holiday cookie cutter on the board first. Fill the cookie cutter with mini marshmallows. Next, layer the large items first. Begin with the chocolate covered Biscotti and build around that using berries. Pile the berries high. Next add a variety of chocolate covered treats on opposite sides of each other between the mounds of berries. Be sure to add touches of berries around the edges. If space allows, place hot cocoa on board. Otherwise, set bowl full of hot cocoa mix and any additional hot cocoa fixings adjacent to the board.

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The City Lifestyle

Giving Campaign

2023 30

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This Giving Campaign is all about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”

The annual City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is in its 4th year. Last holiday season we gave away over $300,000 to help 116 individuals and families in need, but we need your help to make it happen again this year. With nominations flooding in from community members and leaders such as judges, police officers, teachers, nurses, social workers, mentors and readers like you, we were able to reach people who might otherwise go unnoticed. Perhaps you know of a single parent struggling to provide for their family, an elderly person who has experienced loss, someone enduring a health issue, a co-worker suffering a sudden, unexpected tragedy or a neighbor with a financial hardship who has fallen between the cracks of getting assistance. Chances are you know someone with a specific need, even if no one else does. “We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them during this holiday season.” “We believe God has blessed our company with continued success, so we in turn want to be a blessing to others,” Matthew Perry, President of City Lifestyle adds. City Lifestyle has also enacted an internal giving program whereby every employee in the company receives $100 to give away to someone in the community. “The idea is to encourage our employees to keep giving on their own,” Steven says. “Taking care of one another and blessing others is truly rewarding and it perpetuates a cycle of giving. It’s extremely important to me as a person and as a company to foster a culture of generosity.”

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Nominate Nominations accepted Nov. 27 – Dec. 10, 2023

Follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram for reminders! To submit a nomination, follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram and fill out the form found in the bio link. All entries will be read, and because this is not a raffle, there is no need to nominate someone more than once. The amount given to each recipient will be based on need. All nominations and recipients will be kept confidential. D ECEMB ER 2 0 2 3 | C I TYL I FE STYL E . C O M / S W L A KE

DECEMBER 2023

events A curated selection of the most intriguing upcoming events in our area.

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ZooLights!

2 001 N . CLARK STREET, CHICAG O Hear the lions roar and wolves howl among thousands of twinkling lights. Bundle up, grab a warm beverage, and be ready for festive photo ops, music, and holiday cheer while walking through the Lincoln Park Zoo's annual outdoor celebration — ZooLights. Learn more at LPZoo.org.

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Illumination: Tree Lights at Morton Arboretum

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Hometown Holiday

4100 ROUTE 53, LIS LE When the sky goes dark the park lights up. Be immersed in nature as you walk along a fully accessible 1-mile path among 50 acres of trees beautifully lighted for the holidays with musical accompaniment. Fire up the s'mores, or enjoy fare from local food trucks. Tickets and more at MortonArb.org .

5 PAR K VIEW LAN E, HAWTHOR N WO O DS | 4 :0 0 P M The holiday season kicks off with a community tree-lighting and a visit with Santa, plus cookies, cocoa, and carolers. Please consider bringing an unwrapped gift for Toys for Tots. Presented at Hawthorn Woods Community Park. Learn more at VHW.org .

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Barrington Holiday Fest

DOW N TOWN BARRIN GTON | 5 :0 0 P M This downtown Barrington tradition features holiday music, ornament decorating, letters to Santa, a petting zoo, and a community tree lighting. Check online for more details at Barrington-il.gov. CONTINUED >

Where Active Families Turn For Positive Local News That's Always Helpful, Useful and Informative. CityLifestyle.com/SWLake 32

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EVENTS CONTINUED

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Miracle on Main Street

DOW N TOWN LAKE ZUR ICH | 3 :0 0 P M Take a sleigh ride down Main Street in downtown Lake Zurich while listening to entertainment provided by Barevoices and the Peace Lutheran Bell Choir. Tree lighting at 6 p.m., food trucks, adult beverages, and crafts for kids. Plus, Santa! Presented by the Village of Lake Zurich (LakeZurich.org ).

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Bronze Handbell Choir

2 75 MOHAW K TRAIL, LAKE ZUR I C H | 2:30 P M Back for the holidays, the Bronze Handbell Choir performs classical, jazz, and holiday favorites, both sacred and secular. The concert is at the Ela Area Public Library (EAPL.org ).

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Lunch and Learn: The Appalachian Trail

145 W MAIN STR EET, BAR R IN GTO N | 1 1 :30 A M Barrington resident Steve Raseman talks about his 2100-mile journey along the Appalachian Trail. Lunch will be served during the presentation. Please register in advance at BarringtonsWhiteHouse.com .

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Welcome Christmas

4555 OLD G RAN D AVE, G URN E E | 7 :30 P M Delight in a musical performance from the only professional symphony orchestra in Lake County. VIP tickets include reserved seating and hors d'oeuvres. Please reserve online at LakeCountySymphonyOrchestra.com . The Gurnee Community Church hosts this event.

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A Carpenters’ Christmas

2 6 N WILLIAMS STREET, CRYSTA L L A K E | 7 :0 0 P M Recommended for all ages, Lisa Rock and her six-piece band play the hits of the Carpenters, including holiday favorites like "Merry Christmas Darling" and "Santa Claus is Comin' to Town." Presented at the Raue Center for the Performing Arts; tickets at Events.RaueCenter.org .

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