Food + Beverage

Autumn's Cozy Cravings

Fall's fresh offerings nourish the soul and perfectly attune with what the body craves Article and Photography by Klaudia Burian Jean jackets and scarves are making their way out of the closet, and a deeper dive reveals well-loved, fuzzy boots, tucked lovingly under a pile of flip flops and summer toys. The fleece just hangs on the banister now. It's a rare day when a leaf doesn’t blow in, ride along in the car, or perhaps even end up in a friend's hair. All around, there is a tapestry of...

Food + Beverage

Baking With a Purpose

How Mary Disomma blends family influence and her skills with her passion for giving back Article by Patti Noble For Mary DiSomma, baking has been woven into the fibers of her life for as long as she can remember.  Growing up in an Italian-American family, where food was a love language, she watched her mother create hundreds of cookies to share with friends, neighbors, and family during the holidays, and later learned to bake traditional Italian sweets herself. Today, Mary is an enthusiastic...

Life + Culture

Serving Up Leadership

Exploring How the Mayor's Love for Traditional Cooking Reflects His Unique Approach and Dedication to Service and Community Connection. Article by Patti Noble | Photography by Sharmila Taylor Leading a city and managing a successful business requires dedication, adaptability, and versatility; qualities that define Mayor Haig Haleblian.  Add to that, passionate, inclusive, eclectic, and open-minded, and you have a window into the man who, beyond his professional roles, is known for his...

Life + Culture

Dining in Retirement

When food is more than just a meal—it’s a way to bring people together Article by Katie Bobrow At Huntley Springs, dining is more than just a meal—it's an experience that combines luxury, comfort, and exceptional service. Led by Executive Chef Ryan Byrnes, who brings over 25 years of culinary expertise, the community offers a unique dining program that brings joy to residents daily. Alongside Community Managers Colleen and Dwayne Bosse, who have a deep passion for hospitality, Huntley Springs...

Food + Beverage

Hibiscus Hiatus

Sip on something different while supporting a local non-profit providing services in our community Article by Patti Noble | Photography by Grace Jackson When the your taste buds are yearning for something more than the usual iced tea or lemonade, this vibrant, non-alcoholic drink stands out.  What makes this drink even more special is that you'll find it, and many others, at The Other Side, downtown Crystal Lake.  Owned and operated by the nonprofit, New Directions Addiction Recovery...

Life + Culture

Heady Cup Coffee Roasters

The Journey of Two Childhood Friends Chasing A Dream Article by Katie Bobrow We've all heard some version of the saying, "Find a job you love, and you'll never work a day in your life." It might sound a bit like an exaggeration, but for Michael Kivland and Kevin Foglesong, it's a mantra that rings true. The two friends met in middle school, bonding over a mutual love of baseball and the legendary Wu-Tang Clan. Their friendship grew from there, spanning years, cities, and career changes. From...

Style + Beauty

Versatile Fall Fashion Trends

How one pair of must-have jeans can be styled to fit your mood and lifestyle Article and Photography by Patti Noble With summer winding down and the fall season upon us, what better time to refresh your closet with the hottest trends? A popular look this fall is wide-leg, raw hem jeans. Regardless of your budget, you’re sure to find a pair that fits your wallet as well as your style. To showcase their versatility, we asked Stephanie and Molly, the mother-daughter team behind Wear Did You Get...

Home + Design

Blending Classic and Modern: Embracing Transitional Design

Simple and Impactful Changes to Refresh Your Space Article by Katie Bobrow | Photography by David Bradburn As we transition from summer to fall and head into the colder months, we’re reminded of the transformations we’ve been meaning to make to our indoor spaces before winter arrives. Many people are considering shifting from a traditional style to something more contemporary or modern, but knowing where to start can be challenging. This is where transitional design can play a vital role. ...

Life + Culture

Kindred Spirits

How a destined friendship blossomed into a thriving business partnership and enduring bond Article by Patti Noble | Photography by Sharmila Taylor Friendships take on many forms and come into our lives for different reasons—some last only for a season, while others go the distance. Sometimes, what starts as a "friendship for a reason" evolves into a lifelong bond.  Julia Pucci and Lauren Schubert, co-owners of Shine Salon and Dry Bar in Huntley, are certain that's the kind of connection they...

Food + Beverage

Pass the Puttanesca

Standing the test of time - The history and virtue of dining family style Article by Klaudia Burian Sharing meals with loved ones is not only timeless, but as essential to the human spirit as the quality of the food itself. For connoisseurs of cuisine, exploring new dining trends is a favorite pastime. Whether the trend is farm to table, alfresco, formally plated or casual, family or friends breaking bread together never goes out of style.  Deeply rooted in cultures across the globe...