






As we embrace the spirit of spring, one topic stands out to me: personal investment. While many often associate the term "investment" with finances, the most valuable investments we can make are those that enrich our lives, our well-being, and our growth as individuals.
At Crystal Lake City Lifestyle, we believe that investing in yourself is the foundation for building a fulfilling and successful life. This month’s issue is dedicated to exploring the many ways we can all invest in ourselves as well as others.
Investing in personal growth can take many forms, and each one brings its own rewards. Supporting veterans’ mental health is a crucial investment in not only their well-being but also in strengthening the fabric of our communities. Likewise, improving your golf putting game might seem like a small effort, but the discipline and focus you develop can extend to other areas of your life. Building a strong resume for work is an investment in your future, setting the stage for career growth and new opportunities. And don’t forget the importance of nourishing your body—cooking a healthy meal is a simple yet powerful way to invest in your physical health, providing the energy and vitality needed to tackle all your goals. Each of these investments, no matter how small, creates lasting benefits for your mind, body, and future.
Thank you for being a part of our community, and we’re excited to continue bringing you content that encourages personal growth and empowerment.
Regards,
STEVE ROGERS, PUBLISHER
PUBLISHER
Steve Rogers | steve.rogers@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Patti Noble | patti.noble@citylifestyle.com
STAFF WRITER
Katie Bobrow | katie.bobrow@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Klaudia Burian
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
David Bradburn, Sharmila Taylor
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF SALES Andrew Leaders
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Megan Cagle
Learn how to start your own publication at citylifestyle.com/franchise.
1: The dedicated team behind My Sister’s Dress. 2: My Sister’s Dress team and volunteers helped raise money to be split between two non-profits. 3: State Representative Bill Foster joins the team from Family Health Partnership Clinic at their Chamber Mixer. 4: Crystal Lake Chamber members celebrate with Working World Staffing Services at their ribbon cutting. 5: The team behind the inaugural Mchenry County Brand Builders Summit. 6: Local business owners and representatives attended the McHenry County Brand Builders Summit. 7: Behind the scenes: photo shoot at Aroma Coffee & Wine, with Sharmila Taylor and Monica O’Neill
Want to be seen in the magazine?
2/11/2025
12/5/2024
2/24/2025
2/18/2025
2/28/2025
2/26/2025
12/5/2024
1/15/2025
2/18/2025 12/17/2024
American Legion, Connecting Veterans Through E-Gaming and Community
ARTICLE BY KATIE BOBROW PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHARMILA TAYLOR
For over a century, William Chandler Peterson American Legion Post 171 has served the Crystal Lake community, supporting veterans and their families since its founding in 1919. As one of the first American Legion posts in the country, its commitment to service has remained strong and steady, evolving over the years to meet the changing needs of veterans.
“As the years pass by, the way we fight wars has changed, and so has the way we connect with veterans.”
Today, Post 171 continues that mission by expanding outreach, increasing awareness of veteran issues, and embracing new ways to support mental health through many different programs.
Over the years, the post has strengthened its presence in the community through initiatives like the Be the ONE suicide prevention campaign, participation in local parades, and Wreaths Across America, which honors veterans killed in conflict. They’ve also played an active role in the county’s Suicide Prevention Task Force and regularly engage with the public through events like the Johnny Appleseed Festival and community expos. And they host coffee talks every Friday at 8:30am at The Other Side Café in Crystal Lake where all are welcome.
Through the years, the way wars are fought has changed and so has the way we connect with veterans. One of the most innovative programs Post 171 has introduced is E-Gaming, an effort to reach veterans
through a familiar and engaging activity. The program is led by Army veteran and Program Outreach Liaison for Veterans Path to Hope, Josh Deron. The idea grew out of his own experience using video games to stay connected during and after military service. When deployed, troops often created makeshift gaming setups to unwind after long missions. Deron and a group of veterans brought that same sense of camaraderie to Crystal Lake, hosting gaming events for veterans and their families.
What started as a single event has expanded into a long-term support system for veterans struggling with isolation, PTSD, and other mental health challenges. The program is now part of Veterans Path to Hope Outdoors and the SSG Fox Suicide Prevention Grant Program. In addition to gaming, Josh leads weekly hikes with veterans, helping them connect through nature while providing a safe space to talk and check in on each other.
For Josh, this mission is personal. Like many veterans, he struggled to adjust to civilian life after service, balancing his roles as a husband and father while dealing with the weight of his experiences. “When you come home, you hope you will just fit back into life, but it’s not that simple,” he says. “You miss the people who understand what you’ve been through, that’s why programs like this matter. They give veterans a reason to show up, and a way to connect.”
Funding has been one of the biggest challenges. High-end gaming systems cost around $10,000 for four units. To make the program more affordable, Deron developed a cost-effective gaming case that includes everything needed for $1,500, which is much less than the $2,500 alternative used by other groups. These mobile units allow gaming to reach veterans beyond Post 171, expanding access throughout McHenry County and beyond.
The gaming systems are currently owned by Veterans Path to Hope, American Legion McHenry and other contributing organizations. Post 171 plays a key role in fundraising and advocacy, including the upcoming Raue Center Concert on May 3rd, which will help raise funds for more game cases and a planned gaming trailer to expand the program further.
Senior Vice Commander Bob Dorn sees the impact of these programs firsthand. "The gaming and coffee talks keep us out of the tavern," he jokes, but you can also sense the seriousness behind his statement. It’s about providing veterans with healthier alternatives, positive spaces where they can bond, share experiences, and find support without the risk of self-destructive habits. Charlie Morgan, commander of Legion 171 and another key figure in the veteran community, has
“Whether through advocacy, gaming programs, outdoor activities, or suicide prevention efforts, the post remains dedicated to supporting veterans in every way possible.”
been instrumental in connecting veterans to resources and helping grow these initiatives. His dedication, alongside that of Josh and others, continues to make a difference in the lives of those who have served.
The success of the gaming initiative shows what can happen when a community comes together. American Legion Post 171, Veterans Path to Hope, the Suicide Prevention Task Force, the Mental Health Board, Kiwanis, and other veteran organizations have worked side by side to make sure veterans get the support they need. Local businesses, civic groups like the Rotary and Lions Clubs, and media outlets such as STAR 105.5 and the Northwest Herald have helped spread the word, showing how much Crystal Lake cares about its veteran community.
Beyond gaming, the program highlights a larger goal: meeting veterans where they are. Many who might never attend a traditional Legion event feel comfortable in the gaming space, where they can connect and open up about their struggles in a way that feels natural.
William Chandler Peterson American Legion Post 171 continues to adapt, finding new ways to serve those who served. Whether through advocacy, gaming programs, outdoor activities, or suicide prevention efforts, the post remains dedicated to supporting veterans in every way possible. With a strong community behind it, the mission is clear: helping veterans and their families, no matter where they are on their journey.
• Giclée
• Canvas
• Large Format Prints
• Banners & Yard Signs
• Architectural Plans
• Small Format Prints
• Scans & Copies (Large & Small Format)
• Laminations (Large & Small Format)
We print & laminate things you might not have thought of! Including some of the following:
• Sewing Patterns
• Stained Glass Patterns
• Family Trees
• Maps (fantasy & antique!)
No matter your skill level or project, we have what you need to succeed!
• 40% OFF Stretched Canvas & Wood Panels
• 30% OFF Fine Artist Acrylic, Oil, Gouache, & Watercolor Paints
• 20% - 40% OFF Fine Artist Brushes (including Silver Brush, Winsor & Newton, and Isabey Brushes!)
Did you know that we are an authorized Games Workshop Retailer?
We have all the Warhammer Series lines & gaming accessories, full Citadel Paint selection, and carry the new releases as well. Need a certain figure? We can order it!
CONNECTED BlessedEventsParties.org | 847-802-4183 | BlessedEventsParties@Gmail.com
Across from Marino’s, Behind the Autozone. Mention this ad for 10% off your next print order of $50 or more! Valid for April 2025 only, excludes sales tax.
ARTICLE BY KATIE BOBROW PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHARMILA TAYLOR
A Conversation With Career Coach Monica O’Neill on Why Investing in Yourself and Career is Always Worth it
In today’s fast-paced job market, whether you’re aiming for a promotion, transitioning to a new industry, or striving to stay competitive, investing in your career is one of the most powerful steps you can take toward long-term success. Beyond the financial benefits, it can lead to greater job satisfaction and a sense of fulfillment. By actively developing your expertise, you build confidence in your abilities, making work more engaging and meaningful. Lifelong learning, professional branding, and strategic networking are just a few ways to ensure that your career continues to grow and evolve.
Monica O’Neill understands this firsthand. For over 15 years, she has been using her experience in HR to informally help people refine their resumes and perfect their interview skills. As her passion for helping people grew, she realized that guiding professionals through career transitions could become her full-time mission. After spending over 30 years in corporate America, she decided to take a chance and make the leap, stepping away to officially launch Best Image Career Services. With decades of hands-on experience in human resources and career services, Monica understands exactly what recruiters and hiring managers are looking for. Now, as a career coach and resume writer, she uses her wealth of knowledge to help individuals put their best image forward in the job market.
While speaking with Monica her passion and excitement for career development is unmistakable. During our conversation, it was clear that she truly cares about her clients and is deeply invested in their success. She reflected fondly on one of her most rewarding client success stories involving an individual who had been with the same company for 20 years and was looking to relocate to another state. Despite having extensive
experience, the client needed a fresh, updated career brand to reflect his expertise and future goals. Monica worked closely with him to craft a compelling resume and cover letter that highlighted his skills and aspirations. After identifying a promising company in a desired location, the client secured an interview. Monica guided him through both virtual and in-person interview preparations and followed up with a professionally branded thank-you letter. The result? The client landed the job, secured his desired salary, negotiated financial relocation assistance, and set the stage for a successful transition.
Taking risks in life is often intimidating, and the uncertainty of the future can keep us from taking the leap needed to move forward. But as Teddy Roosevelt once said, “Nothing worth having comes easy,” and while investing in yourself, whether through education, personal development, or career growth, may seem daunting, it is always worthwhile. This is where working with a professional career coach can make all the difference. With the right guidance, what once seemed overwhelming becomes a strategic and empowering journey.
Through Best Image Career Services, Monica emphasizes the importance of proactive career investment. She shared with us some practical strategies for professionals looking to advance their careers and achieve long-term success:
1. Commit to Lifelong Learning: Staying competitive means continuously enhancing your skill set. Monica encourages professionals to pursue certifications, attend industry webinars, and broaden their expertise beyond their core roles.
2. Build a Strong Personal Brand: A well-crafted LinkedIn profile and professional online presence can set you apart. Sharing insights, writing industry-related articles, and networking with peers can position you as a thought leader.
3. Develop a Supportive Professional Network: Attending conferences, joining professional associations, and fostering mentorship relationships can open doors to new career opportunities.
4. Refine Soft Skills: Technical expertise is valuable, but strong communication, leadership, and emotional intelligence are just as critical for career advancement.
5. Find a Mentor: Learning from seasoned professionals provides guidance and insight that can be invaluable throughout your career journey.
6. Master Industry-Related Technology: Staying ahead of technological advancements, such as AI tools and project management software, can enhance efficiency and make professionals more adaptable.
7. Practice Effective Time and Productivity Management: Using organizational tools and setting daily goals can boost productivity while preventing burnout.
8. Prioritize Physical and Mental Well-Being: Career success is closely linked to overall well-being. A balanced lifestyle that includes regular exercise, rest, and mental wellness practices leads to sustained professional effectiveness.
9. Maintain a Professional Appearance: A polished, modern wardrobe and a well-groomed presence reflect confidence and professionalism.
10. Seek Feedback and Self-Reflection: Constructive criticism helps identify areas for growth, while self-assessment enables individuals to continuously refine their approach.
Monica’s message to job seekers and career professionals is clear: investing in your career is essential for long-term fulfillment. Whether you’re starting fresh, advancing in your field, or transitioning into a new role, working with an experienced career coach can make all the difference. So, if you have been feeling stagnant in your career or have your eye on your dream job but have been holding back, here is your sign to take the leap, or at the very least, the first step.
For more tips and information visit: bestimagecareerservices.com
ARTICLE BY DR. AMY HINZ HORN PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID BRADBURN
Sometimes, the best opportunities arise from the most unexpected encounters—chance conversations or serendipitous experiences. Fueled by innovation, perseverance, and the commitment to stay invested, even when the path ahead feels uncertain, these moments have the power to lead to something greater. Consider the journey of the HammY Putter, for example.
The HammY Putter was born back in 2004, after the founder and owner, Jim Alvarez, hurt his hamstring (a hint to where the name “HammY” originated) on the softball field. Understanding that the putting stance, in particular, would be aggravating to an already injured leg muscle, thus possibly pulling him off the golf course, he was determined to overcome this obstacle.
So, through trial and error, he discovered an effective open stance, and developed an innovative center-shafted putter head with a triple bend shaft. That winning combination led to success on the putting green for Jim and, later, for others who put a HammY in their hands to putt.
While the HammY Putter came into existence quite intentionally, Frank Horn’s involvement with the company was happenstance.
“I COMPLETELY BELIEVE IN THE concept , AND THOSE WHO KNOW ME, KNOW THAT I keep my commitments .”
A slight delay at O’Hare Airport led to some small talk between Jim and Frank, and by the time Frank returned home from his trip, he was a part owner and a full believer in the HammY Putter. Frank wasn’t the only one who bought into this unique putter at the time. It also caught the eye of golf pros, industry insiders, and amateurs alike. Golfers were putting the innovative putter to the test, and it was proving its worth.
While the HammY Putter was hitting its popularity peak with golfers everywhere, it was also piquing the interest of Natalie Gulbis, a rising star on the LPGA tour. Gulbis turned pro in 2001 and enjoyed moderate success in her first four
years on the tour. But with her putting game slowly sinking, she made the switch to the HammY Putter in 2005. That switch seemed to make all the difference. By the end of the 2005 season, Gulbis had jumped to 19th in putting and had qualified for her first Solheim Cup.
And then in 2007, with the putter in the spotlight, Gulbis sank a putt in sudden death and won the Evian Masters in Evianles-Bains, France. Things were good, really good, for Gulbis and HammY as 2007 came to a close. Putter sales for HammY were on the rise. Career earnings for Gulbis were soaring.
Until they weren’t.
When a big name golf company came calling for Gulbis, promising her a big paycheck and lots of publicity if she would use their putter, she answered the call. Gulbis continued on the tour without the HammY, although she never won another championship. The putter continued on the market, but it never shot to fame like the other giants in the putter industry.
That, Frank Horn thought, was the perfect time to move in on all things HammY. While Jim stayed on as owner of HammY, he stepped away from the day-to-day operations. So Frank decided to step into the role of president and CEO, taking over all of the operations and all of the existing inventory. When asked why he wanted to take all of that on, when he was already busy as the business owner [and sole employee] of his IT company, Frank said the answer was simple: “I completely believe in the concept.” Adding, “I made a commitment to Jim and to myself when I bought into the HammY 20 years ago. Those who know me, know that I keep my commitments. I knew that it would be a challenge to keep HammY afloat, but I also knew that I would do whatever it took to keep it going until there was nowhere else to go.”
Frank did just that. He spent countless weekends at golf shows across the country to get as many eyes and hands on the HammY Putter as possible. He peddled the HammY to local golf courses. He donated it to worthy charity events. Frank sold putters online through the the HammY website, various vendors, and online marketplaces. And then in 2022, fifteen years after Frank took the reins of the company, he was down to an inventory of 50 left-handed putters and was ready to pack it in, knowing that he kept his commitment and saw HammY through until the end.
As it turned out, what seemed like the end was just a new chapter waiting to unfold. Because in October of 2022, while Frank was watching his beloved White Sox take on the Twins, just hoping that the Sox would show some heart that day (they lost 10-1), Frank’s “side hustle” was getting jolted back to life.
It was that fall when Spencer Levin – a professional golfer on the Korn Ferry Tour who was tired of missing
“OVER 300,000 PEOPLE WERE WATCHING SPENCER sink putts THANKS TO A PGA TOUR POST THAT WENT VIRAL.”
putts – pulled a HammY Putter out of his dad’s golf bag and decided to give it a shot. While Frank was watching the Sox get crushed on the field, over 300,000 people were watching Spencer sink putts thanks to a PGA Tour post that went viral. Fast forward a few months to when Spencer won the Veritex Bank Championship in spring of 2023, and the HammY Putter was sprung back to life.
According to Frank, “Social Media is an absolute game changer. I’m able to share the how and why of HammY with people in an instant and in a way that I wasn’t able to do 20 years ago.” Not only has Frank fully stocked his inventory with the original milled-face and polymer-insert blade putters, but he has also added a new line – the mallet-style head – to the
HammY family. Ask Frank why he has decided, 20 years later, to take on the HammY all over again, and he’ll tell you the answer is simple once more: “I still believe in it. And, I’m having a lot of fun.” That approach has served Frank well, on and off the green. Frank has high hopes for the HammY Putter. And yes, he’s holding out hope for his White Sox, too.
What makes the HammY story compelling isn’t just its innovative design or viral resurgence—it's the unwavering passion behind it. Frank’s dedication to the putter goes beyond business. It's a testament to the belief that sometimes the best ideas simply need the right time, the right people, and a little bit of luck to thrive again.
Article edited by Patti Noble
A return on investment that pays daily dividends where it matters most. At home.
Whether someone is new to the Midwest, or has called it home for years, it’s hard to miss the ‘Midwest charm’ congeniality, and heartfelt awareness of the generational diversity in the surrounding towns. It feels reassuring to see the conversation taking place on the steps in front of the little white church on Main Street or the bustling library. There’s a comforting familiarity when looking
through the family restaurant store front windows. It’s easy to imagine the coffee that’s always hot, and the seats that are always warm and full, where everybody seems to know each other. The local restaurants tend to honor the mature residents with classic favorites, and entertain the littles with a local balloon animal artist on a Tuesday when kids eat free.
Restaurateurs invest in the surrounding farming community for their raw ingredients, and in turn, care for their patrons with locally sourced delicious comfort food, creating a loving eco system of reciprocity, and a healthy and nourished hometown. There’s a certain ease to the contents of the hometown menu, those irresistible favorites that have stood the test of
time, and always a reliable choice. So reliable in fact, it would be difficult to distinguish which menu belongs to which town’s family restaurant. This month, we recreate one of these favorites. And since investing in our personal health is as important as that of our community, we elevate the ingredients with some vitamin and mineral rich options.
5 people 1hr 15 minutes
Ingredients:
Base for a delightful meatloaf or meatball
• 1.5 cups fresh or ¾ cup dried breadcrumbs
• 2T chopped fresh or 1T dried parsley
• 1.25 tsp sea salt
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp pepper
• 2 T (plus 1T for topping) no sugar added ketchup
• 2 pasture raised or local eggs
• Add 1 lb of meat to this base (We tested 85% ground beef, turkey, chicken, and meat substitute).
Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. If making fresh breadcrumbs, pulse your favorite bread in a food processor until fine. This method is perfect if you’re gluten free, prefer whole grain, or have some stale bread around. Place all ingredients in a bowl and gently mix until just blended. Mold into a rectangular baking pan (we used a stoneware bread pan), drizzle with 1T ketchup, and bake on center rack for 1 hour. Remove and allow to rest, covered, for 15 minutes before slicing into serving size pieces. You can double this recipe to make and freeze meatballs, or make two loaves for delighted family members when there’s extra for a meatloaf sandwich the next day (trust us on this one).
5 people 40 minutes
Ingredients:
• 5 large organic Yukon gold potatoes
• 1 large organic sweet potato or ½ head cauliflower (this addition adds minerals and fiber)
• 6 whole, long, and fat organic carrots, sliced ¼ inch on the bias
• 4 T organic butter or butter substitute
• ¼ cup organic cream
• Salt and pepper
• Pinch of sugar or tsp maple syrup
Directions:
Peel the Yukon potatoes, or leave the skins on for extra minerals and fiber. Peel sweet potato. If substituting cauliflower, wash well. Chop potatoes and cauliflower into equal sized pieces. For this recipe and cooking time, we chopped everything into golf ball size pieces. Place in a pot, cover with just enough water to cover potatoes and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, checking for doneness. Drain, add 3T butter, cream, ½ tsp salt, and a sprinkle of pepper. Mash with potato masher, or for smoother potatoes, use hand mixer. In a small saute pan, add ¼ water, carrots, 1T butter, pinch of salt, pepper, and sugar. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer, stirring occasionally for 12-15 minutes or until water evaporates. Serve with your favorite gravy. And just like at the local diner, we sprinkled everything with parsley (which adds vitamins and also freshens breath). Share this comforting hometown classic meal with those you love.
APRIL 4TH
Rockin' the Spectrum's Forget-Me-Not Gala
Holiday Inn, Crystal Lake | 6:00 PM
Rockin’ The Spectrum is a not-for-profit company that helps special needs individuals of all ages and their loved ones. This year's Gala aims to make a difference in the lives of those who need it most. Get ready for a meaningful and memorable evening with food, drinks, raffles, dancing and more. For tickets and information, visit: facebook.com/rockinthespectrum
APRIL 6TH
Courthouse Square, 101 N Johnson St., Woodstock | 2:00 PM
This delightful tea party celebrates the strength, confidence, and connection of girls and women! Enjoy an afternoon of fun, meaningful conversation, and delicious treats—all while learning more about ChatterGirls, a 501(c)3 non-profit girls' empowerment program. Bring a girl (8+ years) or come with your adult friends. Sip, celebrate, and empower the next generation—one cup at a time! Tickets and info: chattergirls.org
APRIL 12TH
McHenry County College, Luecht Auditorium, B170 | 8:00 AM
Explore gardening trends, techniques, and tools during this daylong series of seminars and breakout presentations for gardeners of every skill level, sponsored by MCC and the University of Illinois Extension McHenry County Master Gardeners. Enjoy GardenFaire featuring garden-themed vendors selling products such as: pottery, birdhouses, plants, garden art, and more. Gardening advisors will be on-site to answer questions. More info: mchenry.edu/gardenfest
APRIL 24TH
Avante Banquets | 6:00 PM
The Service League of Crystal Lake annual Fashion Show promises to showcase the latest styles provided by many local retailers and modeled by members of our community. Check out what's hot this season while enjoying food, drinks, and raffle prizes. Proceeds support their mission to provide direct, short-term assistance to community residents. Tickets and info at: slcrystallake.org/fashion-show
APRIL 26TH
McCormick Park, 427 W. Virginia St, Crystal Lake | 8:00 AM
Grab your family or neighbors and join the Crystal Lake Park District and Crystal Lake Chamber of Commerce to help clean up our community parks and neighborhoods. Hot coffee and donuts are provided at check-in. Dress for the weather as this event is rain or shine. For groups larger than 8, please contact pskultety@crystallakeparks.org. More details at: clchamber.com
APRIL 27TH
Senior Service Associates Annual Fashion Show: Diamonds Are Forever
Holiday Inn, Crystal Lake | 11:00 AM
This 31st Annual Fashion show features top of the line attire from local McHenry County shops modeled by women, men and children of all ages. Tickets include 3 course lunch and cash bar. Browse the silent auction tables, 50/50 raffle, and enjoy a door prize. Plus games of chance and a live auction featuring diamonds! Tickets $20-$50. Details at: seniorservicesassoc.org