SW Lake, IL March 2024

The Annual Home Issue

We are open to service all your jewelry needs at both locations.

Be It Ever So Humble...

There's no place like home. Let's put aside for a moment the physical and focus first on the emotional. Home is our grounding, our base, our launchpad and where we start and end every day. And while the particulars look different for each of us, the meaning and value that home holds for all is undeniable.

Now imagine that you're hungry, tired, broke and bewildered by a long journey on a crowded bus from down south. A plastic bag with water, a few snack bars and a train ticket was shoved in your hands. After nearly a day's worth of travel over endless highways heading north the bus pulls up next to a small-town train station. Everyone onboard is told to get off the bus and take the next train to the big city.

A bewildering journey to a new home is not over. It's likely a long strange trip from a home that no longer provides the promise of security, steady work, and a fair shake. This scenario with passengers being dropped off in winter weather happened right here in the place we call home.

Author Wendy Wunder said, “The magic thing about home is that it feels good to leave, and it feels even better to come back.” Were that the case for all of us.

As you read the stories, peruse the photography and consider the advertisers in this issue, we hope you’ll feel encouraged and connected to the people around you — in your community, neighborhood and most all of, your home.

If so inclined, search online for nonprofits that provide services to new arrivals in the Chicago area, such as Upwardly Global, Chicago Refugee Coalition and the Evangelical Immigration Table.

March 2024

PUBLISHER

Michael Beightol | michael.beightol@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Stephen Neilson | stephen.neilson@citylifestyle.com

STAFF WRITER

Christina Sikorski

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Mollee Johnson, Sean Lee, Stephen Neilson, Christina Sikorski

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Michael Beightol, Mike Kaskel, Shannon Loud, Liv Melchers, Stephen Neilson, Kasia Vetter, VHT Studios

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 Laura Williams LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier

Exceptional vs. Transactional Heidi Seagren

Heidi Seagren

Founding Agent • Barrington

Top Producer for 27 Years

847.306.0600 | heidiseagren@compass.com

With 27 years of experience and nearly $550M in closed sales, Heidi’s proven track record is what makes her stand out in today’s market. Here are the risks if you don’t have her on your side.

• Guessing vs. Knowing - Heidi navigates the complexities of the process by taking the guesswork out of timing and pricing.

• Hoping vs. Experience - With a proven track record over decades, Heidi has her pulse on local and national trends and dynamics.

• Hesitancy vs. TenacityNegotiation is a paramount skilled art. Let a seasoned broker guide you through this often mishandled process.

• Transactional vs. RelationalSelling is an emotional, yet business decision. Heidi doesn't let the transaction or her success get in the way of the trust, listening skills and business acumen necessary to complete the sale.

Scan for a free home valuation

TE'AMO Boba Bar Opens in The Arboretum

TE’AMO Boba Bar has opened in The Arboretum of South Barrington. “This is a great location for customers to relax and enjoy our teas and treats,” said owner Mia Wan.

TE'AMO's drinks are all organic and made from shaken cold tea, milk, water and sugar with tapioca pearls (bubbles) added before serving. Other dessert treats include cakes, mochi donuts, coconut jellies and more. This is the company's tenth location in the Chicago area.

Photography: BACC

Chamber Celebrates Service and Longevity

In a combination of deja vu, nostalgia and gratitude, "A Legacy of Appreciation" was the theme for the Lake Zurich Area Chamber annual celebration. More than 150 companies have been members for 10 years or more and dozens have held memberships for up to 30 years. Retiring board members Amanda Howland (left) and Petra Croneigh (right) accepted tokens of appreciation from 2023 Chair Kent Smith. The chamber was founded in 1910.

Photography: Michael Beightol

Family Owned Spa Opens in Downtown Lake Zurich

New business activity in downtown Lake Zurich has increased with another new business launch — Pure Beauty Organic Spa. In a completely remodeled space in the offices of a former State Assembly member, the family of spa owner Maggie Mrozicki, along with friends and businessowners, crowded into the spa for food and drink after a spectacular twilight ribbon-cutting ceremony. The spa is located at 92 E. Main Street at the intersection with Midlothian Road.

Photography: Michael Beightol

the CITY LIST

We have such amazing, innovative business leaders in our community who are proud to serve you, our residents, with class and quality. We’ve compiled some of our top company picks for the services that might be on your mind this month in an effort to make your lives a little easier.

Home Remodeler

Boone Creek Cabinetry & Design boonecreekcabinet.com | 815.385.8414

Closets by Design - Chicago North chicagonorth.closetsbydesign.com/?source=gmap | 630.501.0190

360 Painting

360Painting.com/lake-county | 872.225.4952

Vanguard Construction Services vanguardbuildingservices.com | 847.334.0790

Barrington Roof Doctors barringtonroofdoctors.net | 847.404.9801

Landscaper

The Barn: Landscape + Architecture barnlandscape.com | 847.658.3883

DJ Landscaping dj-landscaping.com | 847.532.8632

Poul's Landscaping pouls.com | 847.949.6667

Want to suggest a monthly pick?

Schmechtig Landscapes schmechtiglandscapes.com | 847.566.1233

A.M. Woodland Outdoor Design amwoodland.com | 847.224.2167

Spring Into Health and Fitness

Embrace the Outdoors, Savor Seasonal Foods, Set Realistic Goals, Socialize and Stay Active, and Prioritize Mind-Body Connections.

As winter’s chill begins to fade, and nature awakens with new colors, there’s no better time to revitalize your health and fitness routine than spring, the season of renewal and growth. Now’s a perfect time to shed the winter blues and embrace a healthier and active lifestyle.

EMBRACE OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

One of the best things about March are the days when you can step outside to enjoy fresh air. Take advantage of more daylight hours by incorporating outdoor activities into your fitness routine. Whether it’s going for a walk, jogging in the park, or riding a bike, being in nature invigorates both body and mind.

HEATHIER SEASONAL EATING

Spring is also synonymous with new foods in the produce section when grocery shopping. Choose a variety of leafy greens, berries, and other seasonal fruits to infuse your meals with vitamins,

antioxidants, and color. Consider visiting local farmers’ markets to explore the array of fresh, locally sourced produce that can add vibrancy and flavor to springtime meals.

SET REALISTIC FITNESS GOALS

As you embark on your spring fitness journey, it’s essential to set realistic and achievable goals. Assess your current fitness level and mindfully increase the intensity and duration of workouts. Whether your goal is to improve cardiovascular health, build strength, or enhance flexibility, clear and attainable objectives will keep you motivated and on track.

SOCIALIZE AND STAY ACTIVE

Spring provides the perfect backdrop for socializing while staying active. Invite friends or family to join you in outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, or playing sports. Group activities not only make fitness more enjoyable but also create a supportive environment to help you stay committed

ABOUT THE AUTHOR: Sean Lee has been in the health and fitness industry for 23 years as a speaker, best-selling author, and founder of Restoration Fitness, Lake Zurich’s premier wellness studio. Visit RestorationFitness.com to learn more or call 847.847.1837 to schedule a free consultation.

to your health goals. Consider joining local fitness classes or sports leagues to connect with likeminded individuals and make your fitness journey a social affair.

MIND-BODY CONNECTION

Spring is a season of renewal not just for the body but also for the mind. Take time to explore meditation and deep breathing exercises. Engaging in activities that promote mind-body connection can

reduce stress, improve mental clarity, and enhance overall well-being. Consider incorporating activities like tai chi or outdoor yoga sessions to experience the calming effects of nature while nurturing your inner self.

Spring is the perfect season to embark on a journey towards better health and fitness. So, lace up your sneakers, step outside, and let the spirit of spring propel you towards a healthier, fitter you.

“I’ve been a member of Restoration Fitness for a year and half now and it’s one of the best investments I’ve ever made in myself.”

- Marc Cacioppo

The

FIRST FLOOR REMODELS

A Fresh New Look for Your Home Starts with the First Floor.

Watch any of the countless home renovation shows and you’ll likely hear somebody say, “I wish it had more of an open concept.” And in non-televised real life, this trend has homeowners wondering about tearing down walls to create larger multi-functional spaces.

Whenever a homeowner starts to think of renovating an outdated kitchen it quickly becomes a question of creating more functional space, not only for cooking and dining, but more importantly the rhythms of daily life as a more open kitchen “spills into” the home’s first floor.

At this point homeowners tend to become overwhelmed with that “spill out” effect; they want the end result, but are unsure how to get there. (If only there were 30-minute magic wands in real life!)

CONTINUED >

In one of the comprehensive first floor remodels I’ve designed and managed, the changes were centered around a stunning kitchen overhaul. The design sought to integrate spaces for cooking, dining, and living while reinventing the heart of the home. This approach simultaneously enhanced the visual appeal and functionality of the first floor of the client’s home while fostering a more interactive and social environment, which perfectly aligned with a busy family lifestyle.

My goal for every first-floor remodel is to work closely with the client to understand how they use spaces, so that we can create a custom design that suits the individual needs of their family.

In my experience, every remodeling project begins with a candid conversation about needs. You need to be prepared to share how you use the space, including details about your family’s daily routines. As a parent of two busy teenagers, I know this firsthand. After too many episodes of “This is driving me crazy” and the realization that “This isn’t working,” we launched our own firstfloor remodel that helped restore sanity to our everyday life.

After you’ve chosen your designer, the actual process begins: the diagramming, space design, contractor selection and bidding, material selection and ordering, and finally demolition and construction. A typical first floor remodel can run anywhere

“The entire process with Style 1519 exceeded our expectations. Attention to detail was impeccable, and the entire process was a breeze. Our outdated kitchen and the first floor is now an absolute dream!”

— Mark and Stacy Repkin

from $60,000 — $200,000 and most generally takes 6 to 12 weeks depending on scope (those 30-minute shows are all TV magic!).

Families make the most memories on the first floor in the heart of the home. It’s absolutely essential to have a first floor that works for your family.

About the Author: With more than 20 years of experience as an interior designer, Mollee Johnson works with area families to create homes that suit each client’s personal needs. Learn more at Style1519.com.

green AWAKENING

RAIN BARRELS, SOLAR PANELS, COMPOSTING, VEGGIE GARDENING, UPCYCLING & MORE.

This month, our thoughts turn to spring and the season’s glorious “green awakening.” Given the dramatic swings experienced with the weather, personally adopting a green way of living seems sensible; maybe you’re already doing a few things that put you solidly on the path for a greener lifestyle.

RAIN BARRELS LOWER WATER CONSUMPTION

Rain barrels capture water from roofs, holding it for later use on lawns, gardens or indoor plants. Collecting roof runoff reduces the water flowing away from your property. Outfitting a house with wellplaced rain barrels can save money, helping cut utility costs, providing free water for gardening, lawn watering or even

washing the car. Google “where to buy a rain barrel near me” and find scores of options under $100, whether online or at a local Home Depot or Tractor Supply.

Pro tip: Collect rainwater by diverting a downspout to a barrel. Position the barrel on a high spot — even an elevated deck — so gravity and a hose returns the water to your plants.

SOLAR ENERGY

Installing solar panels on a home is a surefire way to achieve carbon-free electricity production, but it doesn’t have to be a whole-house (all-in) proposition.

Solar panel kits can be used to provide power for an RV, boat, camper, or spot power for a gazebo or shed. A quick online search reveals a 400-watt solar panel system ($699) DIY setup to power lighting, an overhead fan and a stereo for a shed or gazebo.

Solar farms are another way to get the power of the sun without panels on a roof. Several local providers want subscribers for solar power produced nearby and released into the grid, thereby offsetting carbon-generated electricity. Again, a quick Google search reveals options that can save about 15% on energy costs without changing your relationship with ComEd to deliver the power to your home.

REDUCING THE WASTE STREAM

Composting has been around for a long time. Kitchen composting is relatively new; it’s important for several reasons, including reducing the waste stream (the garbage that’s sent to a landfill) and subsequent harmful methane gas emissions from those same landfills.

Getting started is easy and inexpensive. First, look for a seal-tight container for

your kitchen. There are attractive ones for sale, but any large Tupperware-like container will do. Instead of tossing trimmings and peels from veggies and fruit down the disposal or into the garbage, store them in the container; when it’s full, transfer the organic materials (no fats, meat or packaging) to an outside composter or compost pile.

Composters vary, but have one thing in common – they come in basic black. Why? Have you ever gotten into a black car on a sunny day? A black composter absorbs heat, speeding decomposition of organic matter. An ideal composter has a simple crank allowing you to rotate a drum to help with decomposition. Compost in a sunny spot with good airflow in your backyard; in time you’ll have super-rich, nutrient-full, homemade compost to add to your flower beds and vegetable garden.

GROW YOUR OWN

Speaking of veggies, even a small 8’ x 8’ plot can produce a nice crop of tomatoes, beans, peppers and herbs. No place for a garden? How about a collection of containers on a sunny deck? Some villages and gardening clubs have shared community gardening areas; check near you. Think about visiting or possibly joining a local gardening club: learn and socialize simultaneously.

Best of all, you can get your seeds for free. Several area libraries run seed banks with seeds shared by area gardeners. You’ll save a few bucks and know the seeds you plant have been tested locally by gardeners like you. Also, look for special events like Round Lake Beach’s annual Seed Expo; get a garden’s worth of free seeds and advice from local Master Gardeners.

Transitioning from flora to fauna: an increasing trend in local suburbs is raising chickens. There’s a bit of legwork to get started (local suppliers are ready to help you with gear and know-how), but nothing beats plucking fresh, healthy eggs straight from the hen’s nest for breakfast. (Note photo of celebrity chef Fabio Viviani nuzzling his favorite hen, Red, near his home chicken coop).

UPCYCLING GIVES DISCARDS NEW PURPOSE

If you haven’t heard about upcycling... listen up! So many ways, so many things.

In keeping with the gardening theme, cardboard egg cartons and eggshells are a perfect way to germinate seeds for your garden. Crack eggs carefully so just over two-thirds of the shell remains intact. From a small bag of purchased seed-starter mix, fill the eggshells, bury a few seeds in each, place in an egg carton, keep watered and put in a sunny spot indoors; within a few days you’ll see sprouts. Mark each shell with what you’ve planted. Once we’ve had a week of warm days, transfer the plants to your garden or containers. Crush the eggshell and plant it, too, for extra nutrients as your plants take root.

Donate things you have, but no longer need or treasure, for others to discover, repurpose, and enjoy. Your “old/out-ofstyle” is someone else’s “vintage/just my style!” After freeing some of your extra stuff, find new treasures at outstanding, unique local upcyclers like Lake Barrington’s All American Retail, or ABLE Shoppe just down the road in Elgin, where furniture and fashion become art.

Hilltop Living

Before World War II the community now known as Kildeer was largely farms and undeveloped property.

With the return of GIs from Europe and the Pacific, this part of southern Lake County began to experience the same sort of development pressure as elsewhere.

Resident Harry Bosch, Jr. submitted a plan to the Lake County Board for a residential subdivision of primarily two-acre lots. In 1955 Bosch won approval for Boschome Farms and sought to hold tight to strict approval of all homes built.

A few years later a plan was hatched for “a billion-dollar city” numbering 20,000 homes across nine square miles in the still-unincorporated area. This ambitious plan from a Chicago builder troubled the locals who coalesced around long-time resident Dorothea Huszagh to stop it. In 1958, residents held a referendum on the question of establishing the Village of Kildeer. Area residents voted to incorporate the new village with a population of 153, making it the 32nd municipality in Lake County.

The actions of residents from 66 years ago preserved the rolling terrain and streams, ponds and wetlands that continue to give the area a distinctive rural feel.

Today there’s a stately French Provincial home set high on a hill in the Farmington of Kildeer neighborhood, just south of Harry Bosch’s original subdivision. On nearly one-and-a-half acres, a long curving driveway up from the road brings visitors to this three-level home of more than 7300 square feet.

Past the front door is a grand marble foyer with curved bridal staircase that welcomes family and friends into the home. Inside there are four bedrooms, 3.1 baths, a fully finished basement, and large kitchen with granite counters, newer stainless-steel appliances & under-cabinet lighting.

A first-floor library — perfect as a home office — has built-in bookcases and rich wood beams leading out to a screened Florida sun room with serene views of nature. In the family room there’s a fireplace and a wall of sliding doors leading to an oversized deck that’s delightful for outdoor entertaining. The living room also includes a fireplace.

In a huge primary suite there’s yet another fireplace, plus new hardwood flooring, spacious sitting area and a private balcony. A dual vanity bath has heated floors, soaker tub, large shower and dual walk in closets.

The finished basement has a large bar, lots of seating space for gaming or exercise, plenty of storage and a full bath.

Renee Clark of @Properties Realty represents the seller. Learn more by visiting ReneeClarkHomes.com or call 847.381.0300.

“In the family room, there’s a fireplace and a wall of sliding doors leading to an oversized deck that’s delightful for outdoor entertaining.”

FOREVER HOME

On a hilltop in the Farmington neighborhood, a mystery is buried beneath the trees. Not far from the Farmington Bath and Tennis Club and just north of the intersection of Middleton and Andover roads is a small cemetery overlooking a picturesque pond. This is the final resting place for Herman and Catherine Pahlman. Herman died in 1900, and Catherine in 1916. There are two more occupants resting peacefully, but who they are, and how and when they got there, remains a mystery. What we do know is that the Pahlman home, likely built before 1850, was nearby on Long Grove Road. The vacant property is just under 1.5 acres.

To learn more about this unique property now available, contact Renee Clark (847.381.0300) or visit ReneeClarkHomes.com

TRANSFORM YOUR LIVING SPACE INTO A

ZONE BLUE

What’s the secret to a happy, healthy, and long life? Believe it or not, it’s actually quite simple: There are no secret ingredients, no sizable expenditures, and absolutely zero manufactured elements of any kind. Dive in with us as we share insights from our interview with the internationally renowned Blue Zones Founder, National Geographic Explorer, and award-winning journalist who is revolutionizing the way Americans make choices that can lead to living your best life.

For more than 20 years, Dan Buettner has been fully committed to studying the health and longevity of Americans, as well as influencing the proper and attainable health-centric environments our communities should embody. What started with identifying five “blue zones” around the world—where people are living longer, as well as enjoying a higher quality of life in their elder years— has now also evolved into proactively creating ecosystems where our communities engage in setting the standard for clean health.

Buettner’s first cookbook, The Blue Zones Kitchen, is a fantastic resource, featuring ingredients and cooking methods that can increase longevity, wellness, and mental health. The recipes also include lifestyle tips such as proper portion sizes and the best times to eat dinner. Plus, check out his additional seven books that dig deep into everything from the exact foods you should eat to how your circle of friends and family can influence your quality of life.

Every time you go out to eat, you will consume an extra 300 calories that are laden with more sodium, sugar, and oil than eating at home. “Get your hands on a plant-based cookbook, pick a dozen recipes, and cook those with your family on Sundays. If you make the effort to cook it with your family, you will gain the skills and learn to make some good and whole food plant-based recipes.”

New York Times Best-Selling Author and Netflix Producer, Dan Buettner, Inspires a Better Life Based on Research From the World’s Healthiest Cultures

Tap into Dan’s wisdom that is creating a new category of places that are not merely the legacy of a healthy culture, but more consciously created by enlightened individuals that are intent on supercharging healthier communities!

“GET YOUR HANDS ON A PLANT-BASED COOKBOOK, PICK A DOZEN RECIPES, AND COOK THOSE WITH YOUR FAMILY ON SUNDAYS.”

A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS

MARCH 2ND, 3RD, 9TH, 10TH, 16TH & 17TH

Guided Maple Syrup Hikes

Ryerson Conservation Area, Riverwoods | 12:00 PM

View the annual tapping of the sugar maple trees, learn how trees work and about the sweet science of maple syrup, and enjoy a taste of locally-made syrup! For all ages. Thirty-minute time slots between noon and 2 p.m. are available. Tickets are free but required; get yours at LCFPD.org/maple-syrup

MARCH 11TH

History of Irish Music

275 Mohawk Trail, Lake Zurich | 7:00 PM

Ready to visit the Emerald Isle? Listen to a lecture on the history of Irish music and enjoy the sounds of Ireland. Presented at the Ela Area Public Library. Learn more by visiting EAPL.org

MARCH 13TH

Courageous Conversation with Isabella Wilkerson

145 W Main Street, Barrington | 7:00 PM

Join bestselling author Isabel Wilkerson as part of the Courageous Conversations lecture series focusing on building bridges across our community. Presented at Barrington's White House; learn more and register online at BarringtonsWhiteHouse.com.

MARCH 16TH

Flower Arranging: St Paddy’s Day Theme

Wauconda Community Center | 10:00 AM

A local florist,  The Blooming Traveler,  leads you step-by-step as you create your very own St. Patrick’s Day themed mason jar fresh flower arrangement filled with assorted holiday-hued blooms. Ages 16 through adult; $42 residents, $53 non-residents. Visit WaucondaParks.com for event and registration details.

MARCH 18TH

Something Wonderful

10 Marriott Drive, Lincolnshire | 7:30 PM

A star in Funny Girl, Wicked, Hello, Dolly! and Disney's Beauty & the Beast, Heidi Kettenring sings pop hits and musical theater favorites while sharing tales of her journey to Broadway. This is a special presentation at the Marriott Theatre Lincolnshire. For details and tickets go to MarriottTheatre.com.

MARCH 21ST

Women's Wellness Expo

3 Tennis Club Lane, South Barrington | 5:00 PM

Connect with other local women to network and share knowledge. This event includes a complimentary wine tasting along with a cash bar. Check online for a list of health and wellness vendors attending. Hosted by the South Barrington Club and presented by the Barrington Area Chamber of Commerce. Learn more at BarringtonChamber.com

MARCH 22ND

Queen Sing-Along

121 Van Buren Street, Woodstock | 7:30 PM

Ready for a sing-along? "I see a little silhouetto of a man, Scaramouche, Scaramouche, will you do the Fandango?" Prep your pipes for "Bohemian Rhapsody — A Movie Sing Along" to the music of Queen. Presented at the Woodstock Opera House; visit Woodstock OperaHouse.com for tickets. Start prepping your best 1970s outfit now.

- Steven (Owner/Operator)