A Season of Giving and Gratitude
Finding Peace
As the season of giving thanks approaches, we may experience gratitude in moments of celebration, but often times it quietly arrives when we accept the present moment and find peace exactly where we are. It isn’t always about the grand gestures or achievements; for me it is in the times I give grace and show up for myself and others. It is in those moments, and the quiet times of self-reflection, that we learn about ourselves and the gifts each experience provides us.
As I have learned through both heartache and triumph, nothing is permanent. I lose track of that sometimes. Then, I get grounded and remind myself of all the good in my life - all the power and strengths I possess, and all the positive things ahead - and keep moving forward. I am 100% better, today, at living in the moment and dealing with what is…but I still have room for growth and improvement.
I’ve discovered so much about myself by listening to the stories of others. In sharing my own, I’ve formed deeper connections with even more people. Our stories are what truly connect us all. And through that we can find acceptance, contentment and, yes, gratitude.
The key is to trust that everything happens as it should and to not let negative thoughts and feelings control you. Forgive yourself for not knowing what you didn’t know before you learned it, and in the words of Maya Angelou: “Do the best you can, and then when you know better, do better.”
Over the past year as Editor, I have been inspired by the grace, resilience, authenticity and commitment to community from the people I have met along the way. It has been my honor to share their stories. My life is richer for it, and for that, I am immensely grateful. I look forward to much more to come.
I leave you with this: In a world that constantly pushes us to do more, be more, achieve more, perhaps the greatest gift we can give ourselves is to pause, reflect, and find peace in what is.
PATTI NOBLE, EDITOR @CRYSTALLAKECITYLIFESTYLE
Discover Crystal Lake City Lifestyle in: City of Crystal Lake, Village of Lakewood, Prairie Grove, and Huntley
November 2024
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, Grace Jackson
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Jamie Housh
city scene
1: Winning bidders in the Caddie Auction at the Northern Illinois Special Recreation Association golf outing. 2: Cheers to the NISRA Foundation Annual Women’s Golf Outing, held at Randall Oaks. 3: Heady Cup Roasters served up hot and cold coffee treats at the Johnny Appleseed Festival.
4: Members and mentors of MCC’s Kids and College program displayed their talents at Johnny Appleseed. 5: Wee Little Paws Inn, joined the fun at the Johnny Appleseed Festival! 6: Girls on the Run staff hosted the Be Well event at Crest Creek Farms 7: Having fun at Girls on the Run Be Well event. Namaste!
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8: Yoga for a cause. Attending the Be Well fundraising event for Girls on the Run. 9: Welcoming ticket holders to the Crystal Lake Chamber Block Party at Crystal Lake Brewing 10: Hamming it up in the photo booth at the Crystal Lake Chamber annual block party 11: Volunteers, and kids alike, loved hanging with Johnny Appleseed! 12: Representing the Crystal Lake Food Pantry in the non-profit area at Johnny Appleseed. 13: Celebrating Sheldon Clark’s 20-year membership anniversary with the Huntley Chamber of Commerce. 14: Enjoying a warm fall day at a festival in Harvest Run in Crystal Lake.
KATHRYN SINDE
KATHRYN SINDE
ROOTED IN COMPASSION
A couple’s journey of giving back and creating lasting impact in their community
ARTICLE BY PATTI NOBLE PHOTOGRAPHY BY SHARMILA TAYLOR
We’ve all heard a version of the saying, what we give to others often returns to us in unexpected and deeper, more fulfilling, ways. But how many of us have actually put that belief to the test?
“Helping others isn’t just an act of kindness; it’s a way of nurturing the best parts of ourselves.”
With busy schedules, family responsibilities, and endless to-do lists, it’s easy to push helping others aside. Yet, for Marilyn and Paul Georgy, giving back is more than an occasional act—it's a way of life. Having once struggled to put food on their own table, they understand firsthand what it means to be in need. This personal experience allows them to truly relate to those they now serve.
The Georgy name may be familiar, as it is synonymous with the Crystal Lake Food Pantry, an organization that, today, serves over 1200 families in the community, 80 new each month. Their bond with the food pantry is deeply rooted in shared successes, challenges, and a passion for making a difference. From the moment you are in their presence, their closeness as a couple is
apparent; finishing each other’s sentences, exchanging playful glances and giggles, naturally relaxing when the other speaks. Their connection - both to the cause and to each other - is undeniable.
Marilyn and Paul Georgy’s story dates back to June of 1972 at a hometown community picnic prior to Paul’s senior year at Southern Illinois University. Marilyn had just graduated high school and the two had an instant connection. So much so that Marilyn told her friend that night, “I am going to marry that guy!” Today, Paul can still recall, in detail, the “cute white top and shorts” Marilyn was wearing on that fateful day. They both agree, that night changed their lives. Their romance blossomed, marrying on November 17, 1973.
To learn more about the Crystal Lake Food Pantry or Community Harvest, or help a neighbor in need, visit: https://clfoodpantry.org/giving/
Marilyn and Paul were both raised in farming communities: Marilyn the seventh of 16 children growing up in Highland, Missouri, near St. Louis, and Paul, the oldest of four from Trenton, Illinois. Both were raised Catholic, have a strong belief in family, and prioritize community.
The values that guided them when they first began their life together remain the foundation of their marriage today; family, trust, honesty, partnership, and making life decisions together.
Career opportunities brought them to Crystal Lake, where they raised their family—two sons and a daughter. Throughout their marriage, they weathered setbacks, career highs and lows, and at times, not sure where their next meal would come from, by consistently relying on their faith and each other for strength.
As they built their life together and found success, they never lost sight of the importance of giving back to the community. Their joint belief that “Helping others isn’t just an act of kindness; it’s a way of nurturing the best parts of ourselves,” is what guided them. With Paul focusing on providing financially and Marilyn dedicating herself to family life and supporting local charities, they instilled in their children the values of hard work and giving back.
Both wear their hearts on their sleeves—Marilyn’s streaked with tears of compassion, as she’s known to cry at the drop of a hat, inspiring others with her empathy. Together, they’ve been steadfast advocates for those less fortunate. Since the 1980s, their efforts have centered on fighting hunger and helping to grow the Crystal Lake Food Pantry into the vital resource it is today. When asked, they’ll tell you that every dollar donated stretches eight times its value in purchasing power and how this year the need will increase 16% and revenue will decrease by 25%.
Marilyn and Paul Georgy’s connection, both to the cause and to each other, is undeniable, reminding us that kindness has a ripple effect.
Paul will personally guide you through the aisles of the warehouse stocked with food, proudly sharing stories told to him by the people they’ve served. He dares you not to shed a tear as you listen. The couple eagerly shares the details of the Inspiration Kitchen, where chefs and community members alike prepare new recipes for shoppers, and the Food Rescue program that collects thousands of pounds of food each month.
Marilyn will direct you to the reading nook, inspired by her mom; a voracious reader who challenged her kids to lose themselves in a book that would take them to places they couldn’t afford to travel to on their own. She
taught them to curl up in a chair (her favorite spot) and escape into another world - getting lost in the richness of the words. It was her guidance that led Marilyn to create the space in the waiting room where kids and parents could snuggle with a book, under the handcrafted pencil drawing of her mom, donated by a dear friend.
The true impact of the Georgys cannot be quantified, but the lives they’ve touched and the sense of purpose they radiate serve as a powerful reminder that helping others creates a lasting ripple effect. They embody the spirit of ‘pay it forward,’ demonstrating that kindness echoes far beyond the moment.
ARTICLE BY KATIE BOBROW
HOW GENEROSITY ENRICHES OUR LIVES AND COMMUNITIES
GRATITUDE AND GIVING
As we approach the season of giving, it's the perfect time to reflect on how deeply intertwined generosity and gratitude are, and how they impact both individuals and the community.
In McHenry County, we see this connection through the work of nearly
“WE
Jessica Rizza, the Community Foundation’s Director of Philanthropy, believes the people of McHenry County have a unique sense of responsibility to one another. “We live in a county that cares about its people,” Rizza says. “Nonprofits here provide life-changing
LIVE IN A COUNTY THAT CARES ABOUT ITS PEOPLE.”
2,000 nonprofits that rely on the kindness of community members to keep their doors open and their missions alive. The Community Foundation for McHenry County is at the center of this generosity, serving as a link between those who want to give and the local organizations that change lives. In 2023 alone, the foundation awarded $1.5 million in grants to support nonprofits, highlighting the impact of community-driven generosity.
The Community Foundation, founded in 2001, exists to ensure that local charities not only survive but thrive. It doesn’t just hand out grants— it helps build long-term sustainability for nonprofits and provides scholarships for individuals. Their transformational grants go a step further, encouraging organizations to collaborate and pursue bold, innovative projects that could be life-changing for the people they serve.
and life-saving services that are not provided privately.” In a community where generosity is so deeply rooted, we can see how helping others uplifts us all.
McHenry County has many opportunities to give back, no matter what your passion or interest may be. From supporting children’s programs to tackling homelessness or advocating for mental health, and numerous other causes, you can find a nonprofit that aligns with your values. Whether you can give time, skills, or money, every contribution helps.
And while financial donations are essential, the beauty of giving is that it comes in many forms, and no contribution is ever too small. On a personal level, even small acts of kindness can create a ripple effect. A one-time donation, offering to help a neighbor with their groceries, or volunteering for an afternoon—these gestures may seem minor, but they help build a stronger, more connected community.
Volunteering also has tangible benefits for the person giving their time. It’s a way to meet new people, gain valuable skills, and reduce stress. Beyond that, helping others often leaves you with a deeper sense of gratitude and fulfillment.
There’s also an economic impact to consider. On average, every dollar invested in a nonprofit, yields an estimated $3 return in services to the community. That’s not just good for those who receive the support—it strengthens the whole county. When members of the community face challenges, the entire community feels the impact. By fostering a culture of service and mutual support, we create a "village mentality" which benefits everyone.
As Thanksgiving approaches, it’s worth reflecting on how each of us can contribute to this spirit of generosity. Whether you make a donation to the Community Foundation, volunteer at a local nonprofit, or simply take a moment to lend a helping hand, every act of giving makes a difference. In McHenry County, where generosity runs deep, and we take care of our own, we all have a role in keeping our community strong. Giving back doesn’t just help others—it strengthens the bonds that make our community a place where everyone can thrive.
ARTICLE BY KLAUDIA BURIAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID BRADBURN AND KLAUDIA BURIAN
A CORNUCOPIA OF GRATITUDE AND VIRTUE
IN CULTURES AROUND THE WORLD, AND DATING BACK AS FAR AS 3000 YEARS, A HORN OF PLENTY AND ABUNDANCE ADORNS TABLES ACROSS THE GLOBE.
A cornucopia's personality and gifts are uniquely native to the region, represented by a diverse collection from the land. She is often filled with flowers and fruit, to celebrate and show gratitude for the harvest, the gracious receipt of nourishment from what was sown. As the year shifts into cooler air, farmers survey and gather the last of their flora.
Tables are set, candles lit, and there’s a sweet hum coming from the front door; it’s time to give thanks.
Each window shows a different scene. Whether a gathering of many or a few, each day of thanks reflects in the light of a loved one’s eyes.
If there’s a tradition, there’s a feeling to go with it. Perhaps aunt Fifi’s pie recipe, scribbled on a sugar stained index card, always filled with intention. Perfectly peeled apples, each slice massaged with sweetness. A sweet dish calling a latent memory from the kitchen is recognized by the enticing aroma. At the kiddo table, siblings wait for the parade to start. They’re antsy with anticipation, awaiting the first appearance of holiday mugs filled with the family’s hot chocolate recipe.
The kitchen has been in full swing for days. Ornate platters, only coming out of hiding a couple of times each year, are stacked on a side table, and the corner of the living room is decorated with an ironing board draped with cloth. As light dims, the morning bustle slowly gives way to fluffed pillows, scented candles, glowing cutlery, and a little girl turning the corner, sliding on her little feet covered in tights.
Around the world, each window shows a different scene. Whether a gathering of many or a few, each day of thanks reflects in the light of a loved one’s eyes.
In celebration of the diversity of one and all, this month’s recipes reflect a spin on the traditional, and offer a familiar taste with a fresh look.
Each of us has something personal we are grateful for. The opportunity to be in a country where anything is possible, is always at the top of my list.
As a little girl in Poland in the late 70’s, I had a strikingly different experience than the one I’ve experienced over the last 40 years. Although resources were sparse, the land was giving and kind, she taught me so much. My summers were spent on my grandparent’s farm, with plenty of sunshine, hay barns to nap in, wheat for bread, cream for butter, and honey for sweetness. Fall harvest was always a time for gathering and celebration. My 1st memory of Thanksgiving was in the early 80’s after coming to the states, with my older sister and parents. A few days after stepping off a plane from Austria, I found myself in Arkansas, with a wonderful American family I didn’t know, in a large comfortable home and a table holding up a feast. What is remarkable, what I do remember, is feeling safe and loved. Even then I recall feeling so blessed. There was a feeling in the air that Thanksgiving, that I feel now as I did then. It was not easy for my family to leave Poland, and risk everything to pursue the 'American dream,' a promise of hope and peace; a sentiment shared by many families. Each of us has something personal we are grateful for. The opportunity to be in a country where anything is possible, is always at the top of my list.
Smoky Squash Soup
Ingredients:
• 1 large white onion, sliced
• 1 large or 8 cups butternut squash, cubed
• 8 cups veggie or chicken broth (2-32oz cartons)
• ⅛ tsp smoky chipotle taco seasoning (chulula)
• 4 T butter
Garnish:
• 3 cups sliced shiitake mushrooms
• 1 large shallot, sliced
• ½ cup sour cream
• ⅛ tsp smoky chipotle taco seasoning
• 1 sliced green onion
• Salt and pepper
• Friend for sharing
Part of the nourishment of the season is being present to the process of creating, and the beautiful scents that fill the air. Take your time, put on your favorite music and grab your favorite pot. Whether sparkling wine or water, pour some in a lovely glass, we’re celebrating, and here we go.
On medium high heat, melt butter and add onion. Saute for 8 minutes. If using whole squash, peel, seed and cube. Add to pot. Season with 1/4 tsp salt, chipotle seasoning, and saute an additional 10 minutes. As these 2 caramelize together, the scent that fills the air is irresistible…enjoy. Add broth, bring to boil, cover and reduce to a low simmer for 25 minutes.
In the meantime, in a frying pan, on medium high heat, add the remaining butter, shitake, shallot, and pinch of salt and pepper. Sautee, stirring often, until a little golden. Set aside.
In a favorite small bowl, stir together sour cream with the remaining ⅛ tsp chipotle and a little water to thin. Take squash off heat, cool a little. With an immersion blender, carefully, blend until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Pour into bowls, drizzle with cream, top with shiitake and onion. Listen to the oohs and aahs when served. Enjoy!
Radicchio with Sweet and Smoky Brussels Sprouts
Ingredients:
• 1 head beautiful radicchio
• 2 handfuls brussels sprouts
• 1 lemon, wedged
• ½ tsp Smoky Chipotle Taco Seasoning (chulula)
• 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 T. butter
• Salt and pepper
Salad Dressing: whisked
• ¼ c. maple syrup
• ¼ c. olive oil
• Squeeze of ¼ lemon
• Pinch chipotle seasoning
• Pinch salt and pepper
This beautiful Italian chicory is crunchy and a little bitter (great for cleansing the liver after a heavy meal), and a perfect complement to the sweet and smoky vinaigrette and warm Brussels. The familiar flavors of the holiday light up in a new way with this fresh and light alternative to a heavy plate dripping with gravy.
Directions:
Wash, dry and chop radicchio, toss with a desired amount of dressing and set aside. Wash and quarter the Brussels sprouts.
In a pan on medium high heat, melt butter, add Brussel sprouts, season with salt and pepper and saute until a bit golden but still a vibrant green. Add the remaining ¼ c maple syrup, and ¼ tsp chipotle seasoning. Cook an additional 3 minutes to heat the syrup through and penetrate the Brussels. Top radicchio with the warm Brussels and serve right away. The smoky sweetness will knock your fuzzy socks off.
Job change?
Whether retiring or changing jobs, you’ll want to know your retirement account options.
There are four potential options for your 401(k) when leaving an employer:
• Leave it in your former employer’s 401(k) plan, if allowed by the plan.
• Move it to your new employer’s 401(k) plan, if you’ve changed employers and your new employer plan allows for it.
• Roll the account over to an individual retirement account (IRA).
• Cash it out, which is subject to potential tax consequences.
We can talk through your financial goals and find the option that works best for you.
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Q&A WITH SHARON FU
Managing the range of emotions that happen during the holiday season
ARTICLE BY KATIE BOBROW
As the colder months settle in, and the chaos of the holidays commence, many people notice shifts in mood and energy. When the focus of the holiday season is supposed to be family, connection, and all things magical, it can be isolating if you are having feelings of sadness or anxiety. However, if you feel this way you are not alone. In fact, there are two common challenges many face this time of year – holiday blues, and Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). If you suffer from either of these, fret not, we spoke with Sharon Fu, who gives some helpful tips for this time of year. Sharon is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and owner of Seeds of Hope Counseling. Her practice is inclusive and welcoming, providing a safe space for all. In this Q&A, Sharon shares practical tips for managing SAD and holiday blues, reminding us that support is available, and these feelings can be managed with the right strategies.
WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SEASONAL AFFECTIVE DISORDER (SAD) AND THE HOLIDAY BLUES?
Sharon Fu: The main difference is that SAD is a form of major depressive disorder that occurs with the change in seasons, typically starting in the fall and lasting through winter. Triggers include reduced sunlight, which disrupts your body’s internal clock, and changes in serotonin and melatonin, both of which can affect mood and sleep. People who already have depression or bipolar disorder may notice their symptoms worsen during the winter months. The holiday blues, on the other hand, are temporary feelings of sadness, loneliness, or stress that people experience around the holidays. For the holiday blues, loneliness, financial stress, and disruptions to your daily routine are common triggers. While SAD requires ongoing management, holiday blues tend to resolve once the holiday season is over.
HOW CAN SOMEONE MANAGE SAD OR THE HOLIDAY BLUES ON THEIR OWN?
Sharon Fu: It’s crucial to prioritize selfcare. Start by setting boundaries and learning to say no to obligations that feel overwhelming. Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and keeping to a sleep schedule can improve both mood and energy. Light therapy, especially for those with SAD, can help regulate your body’s rhythms. Finding a little time each day
for relaxation, whether through yoga, deep breathing, or simply listening to music, can make a big difference.
HOW CAN LOVED ONES PROVIDE SUPPORT DURING THIS TIME?
Sharon Fu: Support from family and friends is incredibly valuable. Empathy is key—avoid criticism and instead focus on listening without judgment. Even small gestures, like inviting your loved one for a walk or cooking together, can help lift their mood. Spending time outdoors during daylight hours is also important, as it can help counter the effects of limited sunlight, which is a big trigger for SAD.
ARE THERE LONG-TERM STRATEGIES THAT CAN HELP WITH MANAGING SAD?
Sharon Fu: Absolutely. A consistent sleep schedule and balanced diet are essential for managing depressive symptoms. For those with SAD, light therapy can be effective, but it’s important to consult a healthcare professional before starting, especially if you have bipolar disorder or certain eye conditions. Working with a therapist, particularly using techniques like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), can help change negative thought patterns. Social connections are also vital—prioritize spending time with friends and family to combat feelings of isolation. By following these steps, individuals can better manage both SAD and the holiday blues, setting themselves up for a more balanced and fulfilling season.
MAKING SPIRITS
Chilled Cheers to Sip and Savor
CRYSTAL LAKE JUNCTION SHARES THEIR TASTY RECIPES. STOP IN OR TEST YOUR SKILLS AT HOME!
ARTICLE BY PATTI NOBLE
PHOTOGRAPHY BY GRACE JACKSON
Boozy Grasshopper Shake
The Junction's take on the indulgent, entertaining drink, popular in the mid-20th Century.
INGREDIENTS
• Vanilla ice cream
• 1 oz light rum
• 3/4 oz Dekuyper Menthe Green
• 1/4 oz Dekuyper Creme de Cacao White
• Whipped Cream
DIRECTIONS
1. In a blender, add one large or two smaller scoops vanilla ice cream
2. Add rum, menthe green and creme de cacao
3. Blend into a milkshake consistency
4. Pour into a fountain glass or mug
5. Top with whipped cream.
Junction New York Sour
A twist on the original New York Sour with a striking visual element and a balance of sweet, sour, and fruity notes.
INGREDIENTS
• 1.5 oz Crown Royal whiskey
• 2 oz lemon juice
• 2 oz simple syrup (see our recipe in the February issue)
• Pinot Noir
DIRECTIONS
1. Fill a short Collins glass with ice.
2. Add whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup, stir lightly
3. Top with a Pinot Noir float by pouring a small amount over the back of a spoon over the top of the drink
4. Garnish with lemon slice.
5th Anniversary Grand Open House Celebration
events
NOVEMBER 2ND
Life's a Journey: Return to the Road
McHenry County | 1:00 PM
The road rally to benefit Senior Care Volunteer Network is BACK! Gather your team and hit the road for this exciting tour of McHenry County. Teams start from a location of their choice and complete missions and trivia and accumulate points on their way to the finish line party at The Cottage in Crystal Lake. Learn more and register at: scvnmchenrycounty.org/LAJ2024
NOVEMBER 8TH
7th Annual Merry Market at The Quarry
The Quarry at Three Oaks, Crystal Lake | 3:00 PM
The Merry Market (Friday, November 8th, 3:00-8:00pm and Saturday, November 9th, 10am-3pm) is the place to find gifts for the season and some favorites for yourself. Sip and Shop 25+ vendors while enjoying a hot cocoa bar, festive decor, fun cocktails, light bites, fire pits and more! $2 Tickets at the Door – Under 18 Free. More info at: thequarrycablepark.com/upcoming-events
NOVEMBER 16TH
Crystal Lake Chamber Community Expo
Crystal Lake Holiday Inn | 10:00 AM
The Crystal Lake Community Expo is back and taking place at Holiday Inn. This FREE admission event will have something for everyone, including exciting entertainment for kids, giveaways, and much more! Don’t miss this opportunity to meet with and support local businesses and discover all the community has to offer! For more information, visit: clchamber.com
NOVEMBER 16TH
Phil Vassar at the Raue
The Raue Center for the Arts, Crystal Lake | 7:00 PM
American country music singer/songwriter and Billboard chart-topper Phil Vassar returns to Raue Center for a night of hits. He has penned songs for Collin Raye, Alan Jackson, Tim McGraw, Jo Dee Messina, and Blackhawk, and he was named ASCAP’s Country Songwriter of the Year in 1999. Ticket prices $39-$69, plus processing fees. For tickets and info, visit: events.rauecenter.org
NOVEMBER 28TH
Hillstriders Running Club Thanksgiving Day 5k Fun Run/Walk
Lippold Park, Crystal Lake | 8:00 AM
The annual Thanksgiving Day tradition continues with the Hillstriders 5k fun run/walk. Make a contribution to the Crystal Lake Food Pantry or bring non-perishable items on race day and enjoy a morning with family and friends. No chip timing, no competition, no entrance fee. Packet pickup at The Running Depot or on race day at Lippold. More info at: hillstriders.com/thanksgiving-day-5k.html
NOVEMBER 29TH
Festival of Lights Parade
Downtown Crystal Lake | 7:00 PM
This year, the annual lights parade theme is: “Wish You Were Here: An Island Christmas." Think palm trees, ukuleles, and Christmas cheer under the stars. And of course Santa will arrive! Bring your family, friends, and all the holiday spirit you can carry to experience a little slice of paradise this season. For parade route and more information visit: downtowncl.org/events/festival-of-lights
