Home for the Holidays STARTS HERE
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Happy Holidays!
Here we go friends... the rush to the end of the year. In the spirit of the holidays we offer you the December issue, our gift to help survive the most festive month of the year.
Looking to shake up the routine and start a new holiday tradition? The team here has researched and in most cases personally vetted a group of events in the city and suburb that represent the holidays. Whether it's the Joffrey Ballet downtown or Lincolnshire's Marriott Theatre, you're sure to have a ball making memories.
Don't forget to take a day (or two) to get some serious baking done. We've got a few pages of cookie recipes for you (all taste-tested to be sumptuous).
Jammed for time and need to wrap up gift shopping? We've got a short list of gift choices to give you back a little time.
This issue we also revisit and do a deeper dive on a remarkable art show of sorts from two months ago that included the work of three remarkable local women. We took a drive up to Wisconsin’s Sauk County to cruise the 50-mile route of Farm/Art D'Tour and now report on the experience.
If you've never heard of "Burling", Editor Stephen Neilson sheds light on this fun-looking new sport enjoyed by a growing cadre of fans, born on Wauconda's Bangs Lake and spreading into the great icy beyond.
And finally, we need to set the record straight on a recent story. In November we told the story of Leo Burnett, the legendary ad man, and that his home was in Lake Zurich. According to Pam Newton, Chief Operating Officer for the Village of Hawthorn Woods, the Burnett homestead and farm was technically in unincorporated Lake County near the intersection of Old McHenry and Fairfield Roads. In 1962, Leo and Naomi Burnett were among the first families that incorporated into Hawthorn Woods. We thank Pam for her insight, and always welcome feedback from readers.
Merry Christmas, Happy New Year and all the best of the season to you and your family.
MICHAEL BEIGHTOL, PUBLISHER @SWLAKELIFESTYLE
December 2024
PUBLISHER
Michael Beightol | michael.beightol@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Stephen Neilson | stephen.neilson@citylifestyle.com
STAFF WRITER
Christina Sikorski
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Stephen Neilson, Christina Sikorski, Cassidy Towne
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
John Bader, Michael Beightol, Graham Blus, Aaron Hechtman, Stephen Neilson, Stacey Reilly, Cassidy Towne, Kasia Vetter
Corporate Team
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Steven Schowengerdt
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER Matthew Perry
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF HR Janeane Thompson
AD DESIGNER Mary Albers
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier
city scene
WHERE NEIGHBORS CAN SEE AND BE SEEN
1: Don Winslow at GPF Foundation’s 7th Annual Event told how libraries shaped his career as a novelist. 2: Larry Potash (WGN-TV news anchor), Ross Friedman (GPF Foundation Board president), Janna Berk (GPF Foundation Board member), Don Winslow and Frey Hoffman (GPF Foundation program manager). 3: Ross & Nancy Friedman (Board treasurer) shared an update on the Foundation’s progress on its life-saving work. 4: Lea Bacci accepted the 2024 GPF Foundation Harm Reduction Award on behalf of the Lake Co. Health Department. 5: Iris and Dennis Bailen (Advisory Board member). 6: Ross Friedman and Don Winslow, New York Times best-selling novelist, shared a light moment before the crowd gathered at Northmoor Country Club. 7: Lynn Pearlstein and Melany Shaftal. Photography by Graham Blus
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Holiday Shows & New Traditions
Here’s a Short Guide on Starting (or Continuing) a Holiday Tradition By Gathering the Tribe and Going to a Show.
ARTICLE BY MICHAEL BEIGHTOL & STEPHEN NEILSON PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED
The Christkindl at Christkindlmarket Chicago.
The holidays are all about spending time with family and friends. Here’s a short guide of some of the best ways to get out-and-about with the family (or the family that you chose) in Chicago and the suburbs this month.
Christkindlmarket, the annual German-style Christmas market at Chicago’s Daley Plaza and Aurora’s RiverEdge Park, provides a safe, free outdoor experience for the whole family. The smell of roasted nuts, fresh pretzels, bratwurst and hot spiced wine, the sound of festive music, and the glimmer of sparkling Christmas ornaments takes all your senses on a journey.
The unique shopping experience, cheerful live entertainment, and original/imported food and beverages make Christkindlmarket a preferred popular destination, mentioned by big media outlets such as Chicago Tribune, Choose Chicago, and Chicago Magazine. Participate in special events and enjoy the unique shopping experience; visit ChristkindlMarket.com for details.
CONTINUED >
When it comes to recent classic holiday films, "elf," starring Will Ferrell and James Caan, is a family favorite. Now imagine watching it in the splendor of Chicago’s Symphony Center with the luminous music performed live by members of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra.
We remember the story of how Buddy is accidentally transported to the North Pole as a toddler and raised to adulthood among Santa’s elves. Unable to shake the feeling that he doesn’t fit in, the adult Buddy travels to New York, in full elf outfit, in search of his real father. Relive this heartwarming story projected on a giant screen that looms large above the orchestra playing John Debney’s wonderful score.
Be forewarned, tickets go fast for each show (December 13, 14 & 15). Order online by visiting CSO.org.
Another one of America’s most cherished silver-screen classics comes to the Lincolnshire Marriott stage in the holiday favorite, Irving Berlin’s “White Christmas.” Packed with dazzling hits like “Blue Skies,” “Count Your Blessings,” “I Love a Piano” and the title song “White Christmas,” your entire family will celebrate this magical time of year with this uplifting story.
"White Christmas" tells the story of showbizbuddies Bob Wallace and Phil Davis, former war comrades, who stage a winter pageant to save their old commanding officer’s struggling Vermont inn and meet their ideal matches, two talented performing sisters. With dazzling costumes, captivating dance numbers, and unforgettable score, "White Christmas" exemplifies a timeless tradition enjoyed for generations. Shows Wednesday - Sunday through December; see MarriottTheatre. com for showtimes and tickets.
Inspired by yet another all-time classic film, “It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play” is performed as a 1940s live radio broadcast in front of a studio audience.
“I grew up in Chicago, and nobody does Christmas like Chicago. We would play the same albums over and over every Christmas.” (Jane Lynch)
Five actors perform dozens of roles onstage alongside a Foley artist providing live sound effects.
The play is a retelling of the story of George Bailey (in the film portrayed by James Stewart), a man from small town Bedford Falls who is down on his luck on Christmas Eve. This version remains true to the original with the added element of being a show-within-the-show. There’s lots of action as actors morph between the beloved film script and the behind-thescenes drama of an old-time radio show.
Visit AthenaeumCenter.org for show times and tickets. The Athenaeum is in Chicago’s Lakeview neighborhood (2936 N Southport Ave.).
After several years visiting Crystal Lake’s Raue Center, Jane Lynch’s “A Swingin’ Little Christmas” sashays into Chicago’s Steppenwolf Theater for six performances December 12-15. Featuring music from her album of the same name, Lynch performs with
friends Kate Flannery (best known as Meredith on NBC’s "The Office") and Tim Davis (a producer on Fox TV's "Glee" and an industry-leading vocal arranger) as both featured soloists and as part of a classic-sounding vocal group (under Mr. Davis’ direction). The trio, accompanied by The Tony Guerrero Quintet — a nationally-recognized jazz ensemble — performs holiday classics, snappy and lighthearted humor, and sparkling new seasonal songs reminiscent of the classic Christmas albums of the 1950s and 60s. Tickets at Cart.Steppenwolf.org
Performances of “The Nutcracker” at Chicago’s Lyric Opera House begin December 9, ending December 28. The Joffrey Ballet’s magical retelling of the story opens on Christmas Eve, mere months before the start of Chicago’s 1893 World’s Fair.
In this adaptation Marie and her mother, the sculptress who created the fair’s iconic Statue of the Republic, attend a festive celebration including a surprise visit from the mysterious Great Impresario. That night, after awakening to an epic battle between Toy Soldiers and a Rat King, Marie is swept away by a Nutcracker Prince on a whirlwind journey to the dreamlike fairgrounds of the World’s Columbian Exposition.
Set to Tchaikovsky’s classic score, this Nutcracker features a celebrated creative team of Tony Award winners. Show times and tickets at Joffrey.org
The holidays are all about spending time with family and friends.
Jane Lynch's "A Swingin' Little Christmas" is appearing at the Steppenwolf.
Christmas Cookie Cookin’
STARTING A NEW FAMILY TRADITION FOR GRANDKIDS, GRANDMA AND A GREAT AUNT.
ARTICLE BY CASSIDY TOWNE
PHOTOGRAPHY BY STACEY REILLY, CASSIDY TOWNE, & PROVIDED
Great Aunt Cassidy with grand nephews Colin and Reilly.
Butterballs (Russian Teacakes)
INGREDIENTS
• 1 cup softened butter
• ½ cup powdered sugar
• 2¼ cups flour
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ¾ tablespoon finely chopped nuts
DIRECTIONS
1. Heat oven to 400°F.
2. Mix butter, sugar & vanilla. Work in flour, salt & nuts until dough holds together.
3. Shape dough into 1” balls and place on ungreased baking sheet.
4. Bake 10-12 minutes; then cool on wire rack.
5. Roll in confectioners’ sugar.
Finished treats straight from the oven.
Chocolatey Christmas Cookies
INGREDIENTS
• 1½ cups plus one tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• ½ teaspoon baking soda
• ¼ teaspoon salt
• ½ cup unsalted butter, softened but still cool
• ½ cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup brown sugar, lightly packed, make sure it’s fresh and soft
• 1 large egg
• 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract
• 1½ cups M&Ms (green & red) and chocolate chips, divided
• ¼ cup holiday sprinkles
DIRECTIONS
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Whisk together flour, baking powder, baking soda & salt.
3. In second bowl, beat butter and both sugars, until light and fluffy. Mix in egg and vanilla extract. Add flour mixture until just combined.
4. Gently stir in M&Ms and chocolate chips, reserving some M&Ms. Place the sprinkles in a shallow bowl.
5. Scoop balls of cookie dough (about 2 tablespoons each). Press a few M&Ms and sprinkles on top of each ball. Chill in fridge 15+ minutes.
6. Space dough balls on parchment-lined baking sheets about an inch apart.
7. Bake for 8-11 minutes until edges set and center is slightly underdone. Cool on wire rack.
Eggnog Cookies
INGREDIENTS
• 1 cup butter
• 1½ cup sugar
• 1 egg
• 2 teaspoons vanilla
• 3 cups sifted flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon baking powder
• ½ cup eggnog
DIRECTIONS
1. Cream butter, sugar, egg & vanilla until light & fluffy.
2. Re-sift flour with salt & baking powder.
3. Blend butter mixture & eggnog with dry ingredients.
Form into a dough; cover and chill.
4. Split chilled dough into 4 parts. Roll each part to about 1/8” thickness on lightly floured surface.
5. Use festive cookie cutters and place each shape on cookie sheet.
6. Bake for 8 minutes at 350°F. Let cool completely before decorating.
The OG himself. Steady
"Preserve" by Shari Gullo, Cathy McCauley & Pamela Self: Lake Zurich.
TRAVELING THE WISCONSIN DRIFTLESS REGION ON A DAY OFF REWARDS IN SO MANY WAYS.
ARTICLE AND PHOTOGRAPHY
It was a drop-dead gorgeous Wednesday in mid-October during an otherwise pedestrian workweek when we piled the dogs in the car and pointed the Buick to points north and west; destination known but not yet imagined.
A little more than two hours later we were driving at a leisurely pace along the hilly farm roads of the Wisconsin Driftless Region. This is the land west of Madison that sprawls southerly into northwest
BY MICHAEL BEIGHTOL
"Threshold" by Brian Sobaski: Falcon Heights, MN.
Illinois (Galena Territory) and past the Mississippi River into northeast Iowa.
It’s called the driftless due to never being covered by ice during the last ice age. That means the land rises and falls without glacial deposits known as drift. Instead, the landscape is characterized by steep hills, forested ridges, deeply carved river valleys, limestone bluffs, small spring-fed waterfalls and cold-water streams teeming with the craftiest of trout.
It’s a region where cell towers don’t penetrate valleys. Birds of prey float on thermals spiraling up from black-dirt fields dotted with cows, goats and sheep. And once a year a pilgrimage is made by folks who want to see what happens when agriculture and art mash-up.
The colorfully-named Wormfarm Institute celebrates “tabula verde” every October to “acknowledge how for thousands of years farmers in cultures around
"There Be Dragons" by Alicia Cosnahan, Brian Sobaski, Peter Krsko & Tory Tepp: MN, WI + FL.
“INSPIRING RESPONSES TO THE LAND BY ARTISTS FROM ACROSS THE COUNTRY.”
the world have interwoven dance, music and art through rituals of planting and harvest in celebration of the land, soil and those who care for it.” So writes Donna Neuwirth, Executive Director of the institute. What does this mean in practical terms? Pilgrims take a 50-mile slow roll through a tiny part of the Driftless to see original works of art created on farmland set aside for just this week by local farmers.
Come hell or high water, no matter the weather, the route is marked, artwork is selected and installed by winning entrants,
and the Farm/Art D’Tour is underway through verdant Sauk County farmland.
Since digital wayfaring is sketchy an old-fashioned paper map is the surest way to see the sights, including 15 different art installations. Visitors come for the art but get more than they bargained for since there are roadside markers that educate about the land, sky, water, geology and more. Included is a cheesemaker shop where the crew smiles broadly and mugs for photos as travelers see firsthand how cow juice is transformed into lots of
deliciousness at Cedar Grove Cheese; try the 10-year aged cheddar.
Other stops are an old church camp, pottery shop, farm stands, one-room school & museum, farmstead bakery, and this being Wisconsin, an eclectic, goodtimes tavern (don’t ya know).
What made this year’s tour so special for SW Lake County folks is three of our own – Shari Gullo, Cathy McCauley and Pamela Self – were chosen to display their artwork titled “Preserve,” inspired by Aldo Leopold, considered by many to be the father of wildlife ecology and modern conservation.
As we reported in the November issue of SW Lake, with assistance from their families the trio of artists created an installation of reclaimed wood and chicken wire that included 1000 glass jars holding images and specimens of Sauk Co. species. A few jars were empty, an homage to creatures and plants no longer around. The artwork sat high above the road on a lonely plot of farmland providing a view down a long valley. The sound of the breeze whistling through the wire provided an eerie soundtrack to contemplate what’s occurred and might yet happen to this part of the midwest impacted by a changing earth.
Learn more by visiting WormFarmInstitute.org.
"World of Alebrije" by Gabriela Jimenez Marvan, Ryan Rothweiler & Leonardo Linares: Viroqua, WI & Mexico City, MX.
"Framework" by Matthew Vivirito: Milwaukee.
A CANDID CONVERSATION WITH THE COMMISH OF THE CHILLEST SPORT EVER
Burling is a Wintertime Vibe.
ARTICLE BY STEPHEN NEILSON
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN BADER, AARON HECHTMAN, STEPHEN NEILSON
Kali, official mascot of Burling at its dawn, examines the Jugrnauts' ice sheet before play.
At right, Burler Tim Howe: the inspiration for the Burling Logo found on BurlingMerch everywhere.
The Winterfest Burling Open, with 20 teams participating on multiple ice sheets.
“Regardless of weather conditions, no forfeits over the years from teams, come rain or shine.”
Let it never be said that the locally-born-and-bred winter sport of competitive Burling could possibly be considered a mere excuse for people to gather together, drink beer and other wonderful winter-inspired beverages, and while away the wilding winter weather with friends flinging frozen jugs at cans of corn careening across carefully-curated competitive courses of slitheringly-slippery ice having an absurdly great time together.
Or perhaps, upon further review, let it absolutely be quite exactly that. (I’ll call, and raise you two jugs.) Turns out it’s crazy fun to get yourself a team, coin a clever team name and correspondingly-killer logo, print it up on winter-weather hoodies and a team flag, and get y’all selves down to the ice and go Knuclear™.
So, what exactly is “Burling”? Let’s try to take a bite out of this sporty meal: start with a main course of curling (minus the brooms), add a salty side of shuffleboard (hold the cue sticks) and toss in a bare bit of bocce (sans balls). Burling is served up on ice just a jug at a time, with a hefty hunk of hominy and plenty of grit.
To describe it less metaphorically and more precisely: it’s a game where competing teams fling their jugs (common grocery store one-gallon plastic jugs filled with frozen water, branded to represent their teams) down the ice sheet (a conditioned, snow-cleared stretch of ice) attempting to land as close as possible to their target (see next paragraph to decipher).
The Burling target (which for example in Bocce ball is called the Palino, aka the Jack) required time to establish its identity. It’s not a markedout, lined area on the undersurface (as in curling or shuffleboard); instead, like bocce, it’s a target that free-floats on the surface, subject to incoming bombardment and subsequent repositioning; in many matches, it gets knocked around considerably. Early attempts to create the Burling target using various Tupperware items proved too fragile, breaking up upon impact by the solidly-frozen jugs. Subsequently-tested affordable and conveniently available options ultimately landed
on an extra-large, 111-ounce can of hominy, aka in Burlingspeak “the Hominy” (also known as nixtamalized corn), justly anointed due to its weight/ density and resistance to impact.
(To thoroughly explore what “nixtamalized corn” is or can become, please pour yourself a generously-sized adult beverage, seat yourself in a comfortable space, and commence the Googleage. You’ll eventually find it starts with corn, involves some harvesting of kernels and such, some soaking in an alkali solution, and eventually being ground either into grits or masa harina that’s later formed into tortillas. Burlingfolk buy it in the pre-ground stage while it’s incredibly dense and canned in water.)
Burlers hurl their jugs at the Hominy attempting to ultimately land their jugs the closest to it, while knocking their opponent’s jugs away from it. Points are awarded based on several logically skill-based and results-oriented factors, including double points if the jug finishes in an upright position, and additional double points if the jug lands touching against the Hominy.
Creator and Commissioner of Burling John Bader sat down with me recently over a leisurely Lindy’s Landing lunch to demystify his wildly popular locally-spawned sport.
John mentioned an interview he’d taped featured on WGN-TV highlighting Burling:
“Ironically, it was a sport born out of the dog days of winter… we were watching Curling at home on TV, watching the Olympics with my son-in-law Joe Sovran. I lived on Bangs Lake, and we’re looking out the window, watching the Curling and side-glancing at the lake, and we looked at each other and said, ‘We can do this!’… so I got on my phone and started Googling… and [soon] said, “We can’t do this… these curling stones are like a couple thousand dollars each!”… and so [later], we basically went out and froze [some gallon water jugs] and then went at it.”
Over the next several years, John (with family and friends) worked to evolve the nascent
sport-in-waiting into a workable, family-friendly, sensible way to engage with winter weather and get outdoors and have fun. Tracy Lehmann, owner of Bungalow Printing, is a member of Burling’s official Board that works out logistics and communications, and is the official provider of Burling related merchandise. As a burler herself, she testifies: “It’s fun! It gets me off the couch in the winter… I’m not one to go out in the cold, but I’ll bundle up and go to Burling. Everyone is so welcoming to the players.” A proudly woman-owned business in the community, Bungalow Printing was bustling during my brief interview, busy printing T-shirts for the upcoming local Turkey Trot.
Fleshing out this inspired game-of-the-people has involved considerable effort from its organizers. Bader early-on formed an LLC with a set of rules establishing the sport’s guidelines and administration, and engaged its Board members to protect and promote the sport.
There are now about 20 Burling Houses (teams), some of which create and maintain their home “ice sheets” and host Burling matches. Others are “traveling houses” that travel to play on other team’s ice sheets. Maintaining an ice sheet on a lake, pond, river, or other nearby body of water takes quite some work — it’s a bit like creating and maintaining a small hockey rink minus the Zamboni — but the fun of the sport motivates a number of lakeside-dwellers on Wauconda’s Bangs Lake, as well as several nearby local businesses such as Lindy’s Landing, Docks, Side Lot and others to support the sport as they can. Teams from other nearby communities have already joined BurlingNation expanding its reach and highlighting its opportunity.
It's been tricky, but tremendously rewarding, according to Bader.
“Burling is considered an extreme sport and as such will be a different game/experience every time depending on the weather and ice conditions,” cautioned Bader while sharing details of managing BurlingNation’s growth and challenges. Several recent years, based on warmer winters and shorter freezing seasons, necessitated shortened season schedules, cancellation of matches and planned playoffs, and awarding season-winning accolades early ahead of schedule (similar to the effects of the 2020-2021 pandemic years in many sports). Participants supported the go-with-the-flow changes and remain loyal to the spirit of the sport.
BurlingNation’s rules fearlessly require teams to play on regardless of competition-time temperature. A telling testimony to the sport’s strong grip with its teams and players: regardless of weather conditions, John remarkably reports no forfeits over the years from teams previously scheduled to compete, come rain or shine or holy-heck-batten-the-hatches. People seem to love this game and the camaraderie it inspires.
The Burling leadership team is now open to future growth. In particular, they are very interested in partnerships that could expand Burling to communities that would fully embrace it with appropriate infrastructure for its local support: for example, park districts that may have existing infrastructure to support local ice sheets for matches and tournament play.
For additional information, visit Burling’s website at GoBurling.com
BurlNation at Lindy's Winterfest.
It’s been tricky, but tremendously rewarding. “ ”
Burl Power, one of the original Burling Houses.
Burling Founder and Commissioner John Bader, burling for the Jugrnaughts, the original Burling House.
Tracy Lehmann of Bungalow Printing, BurlingNation's merchandise czar and original Board member, proudly displays the official BurlingNation hoodie.
Burling at the Dudey Delta, home ice sheet of the Lumberjacks and Lumber Jills.
Last-Minute Gifts
ARTICLE BY MICHAEL BEIGHTOL
CHRISTMAS DAY COMES FAST THIS MONTH. HERE ARE GIFT IDEAS FOR ANYBODY SHORT ON TIME.
Traveling. Shopping. Decorating. Visiting. Cooking. Entertaining. Seems like time gets short every December. We’ve scoured the Internet and checked out local shops to curate a quickie gift guide to suit family, friends and Fido, too.
To find an online or local retailer, just search using the title (in bold) for each gift item listed. Everything here is affordably priced ($48 - $140+).
1. Âme Atendre totes are luxury items that are great for heavy gifting season. | 2. GoCube (think Rubik’s) is Bluetoothenabled for a new speed cube experience. | 3. Âme Atendre teal glass carafe and drinking glass set is a perfect blend of classic form and modern function. | 4. Trot’s Elevated Complete Set revolutionizes pet dining with specially designed slow feeder bowls. | 5. Snap Grip Luxe is ultra-thin, magnetic, with MagSafe® charge-thru for any phone. | 6. Leaf People’s Complete Men’s Skin Care Set includes everything for skin & hair. | 7. V Coterie’s Self-Love Pill Double Cord Bracelet is a stylish reminder to prioritize mental well-being | 8. Montana Silversmiths – the go-to brand for all things Western – has intricately designed belt buckles and beautifully crafted jewelry. | 9. Formulary 55’s Shea Butter Soap Gift Set has all the holiday scents to delight lovers of luxury goods.
Making Spirits
JOIN OUR MISSION TO SPREAD WARMTH AND COMPASSION BY NOMINATING SOMEONE WHO DESERVES A CHRISTMAS BLESSING
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way.”
As the Christmas season approaches, we’re reminded of the power of community and kindness. This year, through City Lifestyle’s nonprofit, The Kingdom Building Foundation, we will help people who may be struggling quietly without the support they need. But we need your help to find them.
Over the past three years, this campaign has grown into something truly beautiful, touching the lives of more than 150 families nationwide last year alone. Each year, we’ve seen firsthand how generosity can bring relief, hope, and a renewed sense of faith in others.
One person we had the opportunity to help was an 11-year-old boy diagnosed with a rare eye cancer. After he had to undergo chemotherapy and surgery to remove his eye, his doctors recommended a prosthetic one, but insurance wouldn’t cover the cost, calling it “cosmetic.” When we heard his story, we knew we had to help. Because of this campaign, he got his prosthetic eye and a piece of his childhood back with it.
Another was a wife and mother of two who fought a yearlong health battle and was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Just days before Christmas, she underwent surgery but passed away due to complications. Before her surgery, she received one of our cards and, in tears, told us this gift gave her some peace, knowing her family would have help in the difficult times ahead. It wasn’t just about the financial support but knowing that someone cared.
These stories remind us why this campaign is so meaningful. It’s not just
about writing checks; it’s about telling people they aren’t forgotten and that someone is there to lend a hand. It’s about giving families a moment of relief when the world feels unbearable.
“We believe in giving back and serving the communities where we live in a real and tangible way,” says Steven Schowengerdt, CEO and founder of City Lifestyle. “This Giving Campaign is about personally impacting the lives of people we know with an unexpected check in the mail just to say that someone thought of them this holiday season.”
Together with Matthew Perry, President, Steven adds that the gratitude from recipients was overwhelming, affirming this tradition’s importance. “We believe God has blessed our company with success,” Matthew adds, “so we want to be a blessing to others.”
We know many more people could use a little help this Christmas, and that’s where you come in. Do you know someone who could use a blessing? We want to hear about them.
To nominate someone, scan the QR code or follow @CityLifestyle on Instagram, where you’ll find the form in our bio. Nominations are open from November 27 to December 10, 2024. Let’s bring hope to those who need it most.
The City Lifestyle Giving Campaign is completely confidential. No identities will be revealed or publicized. All entries will be read, and selections and the amount given to each recipient will be based on the severity of the need. For more information, visit KingdomBuildingFoundation.org
events
EVERYDAY IN DECEMBER
Vintage Holiday
Downtown Long Grove
Come for holiday walks, horse-drawn carriages, Santa visits, caroling, and special old-world charm all around the village and look for merchant specials and discounts. Presented in the Historic Village of Long Grove. Learn more at LongGrove.org
THROUGH DECEMBER 30TH
A Christmas Carol
170 N Dearborn Street, Chicago
Charles Dickens' play is a Christmas classic and consistently listed as one of the best things to do in town during the holiday season. This year the Goodman Theatre welcomes Christopher Donahue in the role as Ebeneezer Scrooge. Visit GoodmanTheatre.org for matinee and evening performance times & tickets.
DECEMBER 6TH
Hometown Holiday
5 Park View Lane, Hawthorn Woods | 4:00 PM
This free community event includes a giant inflatable gingerbread bounce house, holiday music, and cocoa and cookies. Don’t leave without a visit with Mary DiMaggio and Santa. Presented by the Village of Hawthorn Woods. Details at VHW.org
DECEMBER 7TH
Holly Jolly Gingerbread Party
8400 31st Street, Brookfield | 11:00 AM
Enjoy a brunch and dessert buffet, including cocoa, mimosas, and a Blood Mary bar, at the Zoo Discovery Center. Experience close encounters with Animal Ambassadors and gingerbread decorating. Presented at the Brookfield Zoo (BrookfieldZoo.org).
DECEMBER 7TH
Miracle on Main
Main Street & Old Rand Road, Lake Zurich | 3:00 PM
Witness the lighting of the big tree in downtown Lake Zurich with family, friends, and neighbors while enjoying crafts, live music, and maybe a reindeer visit. Presented by the Village of Lake Zurich.
DECEMBER 19TH - 22ND
Rocky Mountain High Experience: A John Denver Christmas
175 E Chestnut Street, Chicago
Rick Schuler, a John Denver tribute artist, performs some of Denver’s biggest hits including “Rocky Mountain High” and “Take Me Home Country Roads” along with holiday favorites like “Joy to the World” and “Silver Bells.” Presented at the Broadway Playhouse at Water Tower Place. Show times & tickets at BroadwayInChicago.com.
DECEMBER 30TH
Noon Year's Eve Party
275 Mohawk Trail, Lake Zurich | 11:30 AM
Dress in your best to ring in the new year with friends at the library! Help us count down to a mid-day balloon drop and celebrate with crafts, music and games! For children ages 3-8 with an adult. Presented at the Ela Area Library (EAPL.org).
