SW Lake, IL May 2025

May We?

Having Marched right through April, well… I certainly think we May!

Spring has fully sprung into her natural beauty. Persephone, the goddess of spring according to Greek myth, was described by Cicero as “the seed of the fruits of the fields”, and her new green growth abounds. Spring embodies the natural essence of nature and nurture, and I can think of no finer season to celebrate the women who make our lives special and meaningful.

Of course, this month's Mother's Day celebration brings special focus to moms—but it’s not just the biological mothers, but all the mother-figures in our lives who have made an indelible impact on us. Family members, teachers, friends and neighbors doing awesome things in our communities and contributing to our lives make themselves unforgettable and irreplaceable.

I vividly remember Mrs. Caldwell, my high school music director, who helped me focus my talent and interest in music and is largely responsible for me finding myself waving my hands in front of various choirs for the next 35+ years. She went out on a limb allowing me to student-conduct one of her choral classes, directing a piece in concert that I’d set to music of a poem by one of the group’s members; her encouragement, validation and allowing me to take risks and learn from them led to decades of creative pursuits that have greatly enriched my life.

The impact of women in influential leadership roles, gratefully, continues to grow. By my (very) rough count of those running for elective office in Lake County alone last month, approximately 45% were women. The women in SW Lake Co. are movers and shakers, builders and makers—both seen and unseen. Their silent service blesses those who are under their care. Their attention to detail shows us something about beauty that isn't seen or understood any other way. I hope you enjoy the stories in this month’s pages of the exceptional women among us—and perhaps take a few minutes to send a text, make a phone call or get your kids on a video call with the women in your own life who deserve recognition. It only takes a minute to brighten someone’s day and remind them of what they mean to you.

In closing, I hope each of you spend plenty of time on those special, favorite elements of life where, indeed: you May!

STEPHEN NEILSON, EDITOR @SWLAKELIFESTYLE

SW Lake serves families in nine communities including Hawthorn Woods, Kildeer, Lake Zurich, Long Grove, Barrington, Barrington Hills, Deer Park, Lake Barrington & North Barrington.

May 2025

PUBLISHER

Michael Beightol | michael.beightol@citylifestyle.com

EDITOR

Stephen Neilson | stephen.neilson@citylifestyle.com

STAFF WRITER

Christina Sikorski

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Angela Broockerd, Monika Lajewska, Carolyn McNamara, Stephen Neilson, Christina Sikowski

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Michael Beightol, Janie Jones, Carolyn McNamara, Stephen Neilson, Kasia Vetter

Corporate Team

CEO Steven Schowengerdt

COO Matthew Perry

CRO Jamie Pentz

VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson

VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders

AD DESIGNER Josh Govero

LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier

QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell Learn

inside the issue

Residential Sales Volume | Northwest Suburbs

city scene

WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN

1: The Lake Zurich Chamber hosted its first-ever Civics Bee, a national competition for middle-school students. 2: Contestants from area schools initially submitted essays on what civics means to them. 3: Then, the students gathered in the LZHS Performing Arts Center for a live competition. 4: Judges included (L-R): Amanda Howland (College of Lake), Michael Karner (Lake Co. Regional Superintendent) and Anne Hurst (Hawthorn Woods). 5: The top 5 finalists were quizzed by the judges. 6: Scott Demuth, G2 Revolution, sponsored the Civics Bee. 7: Top 3 contestants were Winston (Quentin Road Christian School), Diamond (Kimball Middle School) and Shaivi (Hawthorn Middle School North).

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business monthly

A ROUNDUP OF NEWS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES

Amy Casper Named Chamber Rising Star

At the Lake Zurich Chamber’s annual awards event, Amy Casper, Director of Sales at Hampton Inn & Suites (Deer Park), was named recipient of the annual "Rising Star Award." This honor is given to a younger chamber member who demonstrates a willingness to go above-and-beyond as a volunteer. “I’ve worked my way up,” Casper said, “and am proud to lead as a woman in business.”

Tammi Malinowski Wins Distinguished Business Leader Award

Lake Zurich’s Tammi Malinowski was honored with the Distinguished Business Leader Award by the Lake Zurich Area Chamber of Commerce at its annual event. She was recognized for her dedication to the community and for countless hours spent fostering relationships with chamber members. Formerly a Client Relationship Officer at First American Bank, Malinowski is now with Barrington Bank & Trust as a Community Relationship Manager.

New Era, New Name for Long-Time Barrington Pet Food Shop

"At Healthy Paws & Provisions, we believe pets are family and deserve the very best care," said Sylwia Spirala, owner of Healthy Paws & Provisions. Spirala (center) is pictured with her daughter, Kaia, and Jennifer Hissa (left) representing the Barrington Chamber. "We are committed to providing high-quality products and expert guidance so that every pet can thrive.” Spirala purchased Rick’s Healthy Pet Foods and continues to provide dog and cat owners food, snacks and accessories.

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Avalon Named Top Salon for the 20th Time

Bonnie Conte (at left in photo, together with team member Jennifer Neurauter) recently announced that for the 20th year Avalon Spa in Lake Zurich has been named to the "Salon Today Top 200" nationally. This is one of the highest honors in the hair care business, and 20 years running is an impressive winning streak. Conte deflects praise directed to her, instead heaping it on her impressive staff, some of whom have been at Avalon since 2001.

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Boone Creek Means Excellence in Home Remodeling

With more than 25 Five-Star reviews on Houzz  and decades in the remodeling business, Michele Buch continues to guide Boone Creek Cabinetry & Design, the business she founded with her husband, Denis. Clients share their dreams and the team at Boone Creek brings them to life. Whether it’s updating a kitchen, remodeling an entire home or helping a client make a dream come true, Boone Creek is a trusted local resource. Scan the QR code to learn more.

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Barrington High School Students Recognized as Young Entrepreneurs

Classmates Rishi Patari, Julie Gonzalez, Sree Nara and Dylan DeLeon won the 2025 Young Entrepreneurs Award from the Barrington Area Chamber. Suzanne Corr, chamber president/CEO, said “we hope to… encourage them to grow as business leaders in the Barrington area.” The students are in the Barrington High School incubator program. They launched Fresh Cornucopia, an online marketplace that connects more than 25 vendors with shoppers seeking local, quality foods.

SEED banking

Embarking on the journey of starting a vegetable garden can be both exciting and rewarding. An excellent way to ensure the success of your garden is by using seeds from a local seed bank.

Unlike store bought or catalog seeds, local seeds are crucial as they are adapted to the climate and soil conditions of Lake County.

Local seeds support biodiversity and contribute to the conservation of local favorite plants. Moreover, plants grown from these seeds are typically more resistant to local pests and diseases, reducing the need for chemical interventions.

The University of Illinois Extension and College of Lake County host an annual seed exchange. Each year the exchange has grown, with more garden clubs and master gardeners providing seeds for the throng of people crowding into the CLC field house. In addition to CLC, some local libraries offer free seed banks.

When it comes to planning a garden, consider sourcing your seeds locally. It's a sustainable and meaningful choice that benefits both family and community.

Jumpstart Your Garden with Seed Favorites Donated by Local Master Gardeners.

ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BEIGHTOL

ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES

From Stem To Vase:

TRANSFORMING FLORALS INTO ART

Flowers have a rich history of symbolic meanings. As far back as the 19th century, they were used to convey secret messages. Stories throughout history recount how flowers were used to send hidden messages between people. French publishers began producing flower dictionaries that cataloged the many floral codes that had been gathered over time. Some of these meanings were linked to the flower’s root name, often derived from mythology, while others were drawn from the flowers themselves. The colors, medicinal properties, and even the superstitions

associated with these flowers all contributed to the creation of this secret language.

In addition to their symbolic significance, flowers bring natural beauty to any interior, enhancing spaces with their color, texture, and mood-boosting qualities. Floral arrangements not only create a cozy atmosphere but also infuse a room with personality, elevating the overall ambiance. There are multiple ways to creatively integrate florals into your home, and whether using fresh or artificial flowers, creative displays can make quite the statement piece.

Flower Frogs

Using a frog to display flowers creates a minimalist yet elegant look that highlights the individuality of each bloom. It helps the stems stay in place. To set it up, place the frog on your chosen display base, whether it’s a vase, bowl, platter, or any container you prefer. Then, simply insert the flower stems by gently pressing them into the prongs. Tip: Flowers with sturdy stems and a lighter top work best in a frog, as delicate blooms tend to lose their shape more quickly.

CONTINUED >

“Tip: Flowers with sturdy stems and a lighter top work best in a frog, as delicate blooms tend to lose their shape more quickly.”

Florals and Fruit

“Not only will the flowers’ fragrance fill the air, but the citrus notes from the fruit will add a refreshing scent.”

Add an extra burst of color and texture to your floral arrangement by layering fruit around the edges of your vase. To achieve this, place a smaller vase inside a larger one, ensuring the flowers stay contained in the inner vase to preserve their shape. Fill the surrounding space with water and then arrange sliced fruit along the vase’s outer sides. For a fresh touch, add ice cubes to keep the fruit looking vibrant longer and to hold them in place. Not only will the flowers’ fragrance fill the air, but the citrus notes from the fruit will add a refreshing scent.

Hanging Florals

For a dramatic effect, try creating a hanging floral display. Floral cones are available for this style, or you can craft your own for a more personalized, organic look. The contrast between long-stemmed white flowers and a dark wall creates a striking visual impact.

No matter how you choose to display them, flowers are a wonderful addition to any room. They boost mood, improve air quality, spark creativity, and bring a decorative charm to any space.

“They boost mood, improve air quality, spark creativity, and bring a decorative charm to any space.”

W O M EN OFDISTINCTION

In every May issue we celebrate women of distinction in our community. The women profiled here have different professional backgrounds and charitable passions. The ties that bind them are devotion to raising kids, celebrating family and being a guiding light for family and community.

LOCAL WOMEN CELEBRATED FOR BEING GUIDING LIGHTS FOR FAMILY AND COMMUNITY.

ARTICLE BY MICHAEL BEIGHTOL

PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL BEIGHTOL AND STEPHEN NEILSON

Rosey Madulara

Banker and Community Advocate

With a career in banking that started in 1999, Rosey Madulara is a vice president and branch manager of  Hawthorn Woods Community Bank, supervising a team of relationship bankers and senior tellers. She says she loves that every day is different. “At times, you will see me in the banker and teller areas helping clients with various needs,” she said. “Then I might be working closely with my business partners, or building strong relationships with personal and business clients, and then promoting Wintrust within our community.”

Rosey and her husband, Arnel, moved to Lakemoor 18 years ago to raise four children (Andrew, Ashley, Alex, and Arianna). “We are a proud military family. My husband and son Alex are Marine Veterans,” she said. When not at work or a community function you will find Rosey cheering on her daughter, who is a high school athlete.

Her passion for helping others is an important part of her life, including support for HOPE Center, Lake Zurich Purple Plunge, Caring Women’s Connection, and America in Bloom in Hawthorn Woods.

“Rosey is the epitome of customer service and community engagement,” says Brad Stetson, Chairman of Barrington Bank & Trust, “and importantly, she does it by involving and developing her team around her.”

Hawthorn Woods Community Bank is a branch of Barrington Bank & Trust Company, N.A. MEMBER FDIC. EQUAL HOUSING LENDER.

Sherrise Trotz

Business Owner and Womens Advocate

Pink Sage is a holding company for the two businesses that Sherrise Trotz founded and runs: Sage Elite Studios in Kildeer and Sage Leadership Academy. More recently, she launched a non-profit, Club XXXI. The common theme for all these businesses is to provide resources and empower women to fully operate and find freedom in their purpose to impact others.

With an undergraduate degree from Howard University, an MBA from the Keller School of Management and a doctorate from Howard University, Sherrise’s corporate career also included a long management stint with Walgreens.

“Her kindness and compassion are at the core of everything she does, and her faith is the guiding light in her life,” says Fauzia Somani, a Vice President at Walgreens. “Sherrise embodies grace and resilience, carrying herself with a quiet strength that draws people in and makes them feel safe, valued, and heard.”

Sherrise has been married to Maximiliano Trotz for 21 years. They have three daughters, including Adriana, a senior at Mundelein High School (MHS) who is graduating Summa Cum Laude and planning to attend the University of Illinois-Urbana; Alessandra, a MHS junior; and Alana, a student at Fremont Middle School.

Kimber Ditallo

Equestrian Entrepreneur

Owner, Founder, and Head Trainer of High Finance Farm (HFF) on Gilmer Road, Kimber Ditallo runs a family-run business specializing in Hunter/Jumper equestrian training and breeding of quality young horses, which operates out of Zia West LLC in Hawthorn Woods.

Kimber was one of the first to be named a ‘Certified Trainer’ by the United States Hunter Jumper Association (USHJA). She has taught clinics and participated in the prestigious USHJA Emerging Athletes Program, including hosting the 2010 National Finals. Kimber, who previously worked as an HR Executive and corporate trainer, brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to HFF. Her kind nature and leadership abilities allow her to craft personalized lessons so riders exceed their goals. She leads with enthusiasm, encouragement, and a true passion for riders’ success.

Kimber and her husband, Michael, have been married for 38 years. Michael is the owner of Dynamic Safety LLC in Lake Zurich, an engineering firm specializing in traffic crash reconstruction. Their son, John, works for Dynamic Safety and is also a hockey referee. Their daughter, Lauren, has been an integral part of HFF; she is currently on sabbatical after a successful run as a competitive equestrian on the international stage.

MONIKA LAJEWSKA Owner of Ensure Inc.

What Servant Leadership Looks Like

Monika Lajewska’s Journey to Opening Her Insurance Agency, Ensure Inc.

ARTICLE BY MONIKA LAJEWSKA

Ensure Inc., a Barrington-based independent insurance agency, was founded by Monika Lajewska 10 years ago. Her career in the industry started in 2005 when she began at another agency.

“Where I started from was really the very bottom,” Lajewska says. “I was helping with personal lines and commercial businesses. I learned a lot with time, by reading insurance policies and assisting with claims. I became more involved and committed to this business as time passed, however after 10 years I felt like I had hit a ceiling. It was time for a change.”

What happened next? “My family and friends pushed me into this adventure of having my own agency,” she said. We caught up with Monika recently to learn more about her life and career. This transcript has been edited for length.

SW LAKE: HOW MANY EMPLOYEES ARE CURRENTLY WORKING FOR YOU?

Monika Lajewska: We have 11 great individuals eager to assist and support clients with their insurance needs, present options, and allow our clients to make informed decisions.

SWL: HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE THE AGENCY?

ML: We are a boutique agency that was launched to specialize in transportation accounts, but we’ve expanded to provide other commercial products, as well as personal lines like home and auto. Because we are independent, we shop around for the best products possible tailored for the client’s needs. It’s not always about the price, but instead the policy. We feel obligated to give clients options, so they know what is covered and what is not included.

SWL: WHAT’S YOUR EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND?

ML: I have a master’s degree in mathematics from Warsaw University in Poland. For continuing education, I belong to industry groups and attend conferences with multiple insurance carriers and wholesale brokers to stay on top of changes.

SWL: CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT YOUR CHILDHOOD?

ML: I grew up in Poland where we were not poor but never rich. My parents were hard workers who emphasized that my siblings and I got a good education. In the summer we spent time at Grandma’s away from the city. I really cherish my small-town memories as kids with the freedom of running around, playing with cousins and taking care of one another. When we wanted a snack Grandma made us the best sandwiches, crispy bread with butter and fresh sliced tomato straight from the garden or bread with sour cream and a sprinkling of sugar.

SWL: IF YOU WEREN’T AN ENTREPRENEUR, WHAT WOULD YOU BE DOING INSTEAD?

ML: I’ve thought about this before. Perhaps I’d be a missionary. It has always felt like I’ve been called to serve others. I don’t really associate the word entrepreneur with myself.

SWL: WHEN YOU ARE NOT WORKING—OR SPENDING TIME WITH FAMILY—WHAT DO YOU LIKE TO DO?

ML: I love travel, sailing, gardening and being rather outdoorsy. Spending time in my garden quiets my mind and I get to see instant results from my work. It’s very satisfying.

SWL: YOU MENTIONED TRAVELING. WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE PLACE TO VISIT?

ML: I love sun and warm places… but each place I travel to brings back great memories. I will not hide that Africa and the Serengeti plains are a special place for me. It was a dream come true to visit there.

SWL: CAN YOU SHARE WITH US YOUR GOALS FOR ENSURE?

ML: We want to maintain the quality of the service we provide while always seeking ways for improvement. Don’t be lost in the drift of rush and routine. We want to help others in need and give back to the community. The market is changing rapidly right now. In the home insurance market carriers are tightening their rules with all the catastrophic events happening. Our goal is to make sure our clients stay informed of the changes. Overall, I am optimistic. Sure, the market must adjust as it has in the past. Through history change is constant and it’s how we adapt to the evolving circumstances that define us as humans.

Learn more about Ensure Inc. by visiting yourensure. com or call 847.316.9933 to schedule a no-obligation policy review.

OUR PICKS FOR GIRLFRIEND GETAWAYS

Four Destinations for Female Bonding Away from Home.

There’s nothing quite like a girlfriend trip to rejuvenate the spirit, create unforgettable memories, and strengthen friendships. For adult women seeking adventure, relaxation, or culture, the United States boasts a variety of destinations offering everything from vibrant cityscapes to serene getaways.

A girlfriend trip can provide a much-needed getaway that deepens the bonds of friendship while making unforgettable new memories.

Here are four top destinations for an unforgettable trip with your best friends.

Scottsdale—Desert Beauty and Luxury: Located in the heart of the Sonoran Desert and easy to get to via Phoenix Sky Harbor airport (on average, 12 flights daily from O’Hare), this desert oasis is home to upscale resorts, world-class spas, and stunning desert landscapes, making it perfect for a serene escape. If you're looking to unwind, spend a day at one of Scottsdale’s many high-end spas where you can indulge in treatments, yoga sessions, and fine dining.

Scottsdale has lots of outdoor activities, from hiking up Piestewa Peak or Camelback Mountain to exploring the picturesque Desert Botanical Garden. Old Town Scottsdale is full of charming shops, art galleries, and southwestern boutiques. If you’re looking for some culture, the Museum of the West

and Scottsdale’s ArtWalk are great places to explore regional history and art. Wanting some nightlife?

Scottsdale features everything from upscale rooftop bars to trendy dance clubs, ensuring the nights are just as lively as the days.

Santa Barbara—Coastal Charm and Relaxation: For a more laid-back and picturesque getaway, Santa Barbara is darn near perfect. Located along the sunny SoCal coast 100 miles from LAX, this charming city with a Mediterranean feel offers a mix of beachside relaxation and upscale sophistication. With stunning ocean views and the wine country a stone's throw away, Santa Barbara exudes an atmosphere of sophisticated calm and beauty.

Start your trip with a visit to the historic Santa Barbara Mission and enjoy the view: it's as if the whole town is reaching south to the sea. Downtown

Top: Planning how best to ride a Santa Barbara wave.

Bottom: Old Town Scottsdale.

Next page: Cruising Lake Tahoe surrounded by mountains.

along State Street you'll find boutique shopping and outdoor cafés. Santa Barbara’s proximity to some of California’s best vineyards means you’ll likely want to spend a day wine tasting in the nearby Santa Ynez Valley. If you don’t want to make the trek out of town you can still sample local wines in the Funk Zone, a neighborhood between downtown and the waterfront.

Speaking of the water, Santa Barbara is a biking town with miles of paved paths from the park atop the Mesa neighborhood and east along the Shoreline path. Stop along the way to spy paddle boarders and surfers getting gnarly, especially if the wind is blowing in from the offshore Channel Islands National Park.

Whether you're lounging on the beach, sipping wine in the sun, or exploring local art galleries, Santa Barbara exemplifies the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure.

Moab—Squeezed Between National Parks: Moab, UT is a special destination for a girlfriend’s weekend, offering a blend of adventure and relaxation in a purely natural setting. It’s not easy to get here; options are a four-hour drive south from Salt Lake City International Airport or a three-hour drive west from Montrose Regional Airport (western Colorado). But surrounded by dramatic red rock landscapes, Moab is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, with opportunities for hiking, biking, and exploring Arches and Canyonlands National Parks.

For an active group there’s exploring iconic sites like Delicate Arch or taking a thrilling off-road Jeep tour. Afterward, unwind with a visit to local spas or cozy cafes. The town of Moab also has boutique shops and informal dining spots to enjoy together. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, Moab provides the perfect panorama to create unforgettable memories and deeper bonds with your best friends.

Seeking adventure?

Needing retail therapy?

Looking to explore someplace new? A girlfriend getaway delivers—whether you’re close to home, perched on a rock or sailing away on a mountain lake.

Lake Tahoe—an Idyllic Destination: With its harmonic convergence of adventure, relaxation and luxury in the Sierra Nevada mountains, this picturesque locale is known for its crystal-clear waters and breathtaking alpine scenery, providing the backdrop for a memorable escape.

Foodies will enjoy the array of quality restaurants serving everything from gourmet cuisine to casual bites. Savor delectable dishes at lakefront bistros or cozy up in rustic mountain lodges for hearty comfort food. The region's wine bars and craft breweries offer perfect spots to chill with a local Pinot Noir or a refreshing local pint after a day of exploration.

For outdoor enthusiasts, Lake Tahoe is world class. Hiking trails and ski resorts cater to all skill levels. Trek through lush forests, along a serene lakeshore, or ascend to panoramic viewpoints for stunning vistas. The lake itself offers easy opportunities for sailing, paddleboarding, and kayaking. When you’re ready for a dip in the lake be prepared for an exhilaratingly chill (a/k/a, cold) experience. Shopping aficionados will find plenty to indulge in, with charming boutiques and eclectic shops scattered from the bustle of South Lake Tahoe to the charm of Tahoe City on the lake’s western shore.

events

MAY 1ST - 25TH

Rock of Ages

111 West Campbell Street, Arlington Heights

Journey back to the 1980s with this jukebox musical with your favorite songs from Styx, Twisted Sister, Europe, Bon Jovi, Def Leppard and more. Recommended for ages 16+. Presented at the Metropolis Performing Arts Centre. Check website for days of performances, as well as evening and matinee showtimes (metropolisarts.com).

MAY 2ND

Opening Night at Brothers’ Field

340 Old McHenry Road, Long Grove | 5:00 PM

Come out and play to officially open the third season at Brothers’ Field in Long Grove. The fabulous tiki bar opens at 5 PM. Enjoy outdoor seating, fire pits, legendary artisan grilled cheese sandwiches from the famous Toasty Cheese Mobile Eatery and “no dance floor - no pressure.” It’s an unofficial summer kick-off; visit brothersfieldlonggrove.com for details.

MAY 3RD - 4TH

Central States Dahlia Sale

1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe

This annual sale includes the different varieties and sizes of the gorgeous dahlia flower. Society members will be on hand to give advice on dahlia care and answer any questions. Presented in Burstein Hall at the Chicago Botanic Garden from 10 AM to 4 PM both days. Learn more at chicagobotanic.org

MAY 6TH - 18TH

Hadestown

18 West Monroe Street, Chicago

Matinee and evening performances of Hadestown presented at the CIBC Theatre (broadwayinchicago.com). This gorgeous show returns to Chicago as a past Tony-winner for Best Musical, following the story of romance and politics combining well-known ancient Greek myths. Songs include "Road to Hell", "Hey, Little Songbird" and "Wait for Me."

MAY 8TH

An Evening at the Cuba Marsh

24205 West Cuba Road, Deer Park | 7:00 PM

Join a park ranger for an "Evening Woodcock Walk." For ages 8 to 99, this is a guided walk through Cuba Marsh to see the amazing aerial acrobatics of the woodcocks. Service animals on lease are permitted; please leave pets at home. Presented at Cuba Marsh by the Lake County Forest Preserves (LCFPD.org).

MAY 10TH

Firefly Family Theatre

505 North Northwest Highway, Barrington | 10:30 AM

Barrington Area Library hosts Firefly Family Theatre's production of "The Kindness Garden." Spark the Firefly and all her friends share stories and songs about Spring and the power of kindness. Includes puppets, music, interactive movement and lots of springtime fun for the youngest of kids (newborn to pre-K). Everyone is welcome, but with priority admission for Barrington Area Library cardholders.

MAY 16TH - 18TH

Yum, Yum Get You Some... Chocolate!

145 Old McHenry Road, Long Grove

Chocolate Fest is one of the sweetest events on the Historic Long Grove calendar, featuring chocolate, music, and family fun. General admission tickets are available at the gate or in advance online. Remote parking with shuttles is available Saturday and Sunday at the Buffalo Grove Golf Dome (801 McHenry Road). See website for main stage showtimes (longgrove.org).

MAY 17TH

The Evolution of Joni Mitchell - featuring Lauren Fox

121 West VanBuren Street, Woodstock | 7:30 PM

Experience "Both Sides Now" as Lauren Fox performs the greatest hits of the iconic Joni Mitchell. Travel through Mitchell's life and work in a performance based on author David Yaffe's book, "Reckless Daughter." Grab a drink at 6 PM; doors open at 7 PM. Presented at the Woodstock Opera House; advance tickets at woodstockoperahouse.com.

MAY 21ST

Lunch 'n Learn Series at Barrington's White House

145 West Main Street, Barrington | 11:30 AM

Barrington resident Richard Siegler shares his personal story and lessons learned of saving maternal lives and newborn babies in East Africa. Hear about how Siegler's humanitarian work is now his life's focus. Learn more and register at barringtonswhitehouse.com.

MAY 24TH

Where Barnophiles Gather

275 Mohawk Trail, Lake Zurich | 10:00 AM

In partnership with the Ela Historical Society, photographer John Rouse takes us on a visual tour of the barns of Southwest Lake County including Ela, Wauconda and Fremont townships. Presented by the Ela Area Public Library. To learn more please go to eapl.org.

MAY 28TH

Fishing 101

275 Mohawk Trail, Lake Zurich | 7:00 PM

Get hooked by fishing enthusiast Eugene Kim's program "Fishing 101" for ages 8 and up.  Whether a beginner or a long-time fisher, learn tips and tricks to catch fish. Presented by the Ela Area Public Library (eapl.org).

Maximize

MAY 29TH

MainStreet Libertyville Farmers Market

413 North Milwaukee Avenue, Libertyville | 7:00 AM

It's incredible. The Libertyville Farmers Market celebrates its 75th anniversary this year, held every Thursday in Cook Memorial Park from 7 AM to 1 PM. More than 50 vendors arrive before sunrise to set up their stands, offering a wide array of fresh fruits, vegetables and locally produced goods. Arrive early for the greatest selection because top producers sell out quick.

MAY 30TH

For One Night Barrington is "The Second City"

145 West Main Street, Barrington

An Evening with the Second City comes to Barrington's White House with two shows: 7 PM is family friendly and 9 PM is adult only. Be ready to laugh with Chicago's favorite improv troupe, Second City, with warm-up act Queen B Improv. Arrive early to mix, mingle, and enjoy a cash bar in the lobby. Tickets at barringtonswhitehouse.com.

MAY 30TH

Havana Night's Season Opener

340 Old McHenry Road, Long Grove 6:00 PM

For years, Havana Nights has been a oncea-season tradition at Brothers’ Field— but now, we’re turning up the heat and bringing it back all summer long. May 30 will be the season's first Havana Night when Brothers' Field is transformed into a Cuban-inspired oasis filled with live music, dancing, incredible food, and tropical drinks—all for FREE. Learn more at brothersfieldlonggrove.com

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