21796 Sarah Dr, Lake Villa UNDER CONTRACT! 28 Peter Ln, Hawthorn Woods FOR SALE! 25890 Crest Hill Dr, Barrington NEW!
Barclay
Long Grove
33232 Sears Blvd, Grayslake FOR RENT!
2411 Palazzo Dr #2411, Buffalo Grove
New Year Reset
Here we go again. The calendar flips and it’s 2025. The holiday hangover will soon pass, and next up is the annual opportunity for a reset. I like having the chance to gaze at the horizon, think about the gift of time, more opportunities, new goals and making plans for another year.
Getting a do-over is a blessing, not a curse, but we must have the right mindset.
If January seems gloomy – and not just because of the shortened hours of daylight – try not to live in the past. Forget about failed attempts from the past or the burden of expectation that this year has to be different. The beauty of January is just getting this far.
Our approach to creating this issue of SW Lake was not to come up with quick fixes or to simply check boxes in the near-term. Instead, it’s about what is sustainable over the long haul. What provides inspiration for making lasting, realistic, long-term improvements to physical, emotional and mental health?
For sure, fitness (both physical and mental) and diet are important for overall well-being. So, we’ve got a couple self-help articles to assist with that. But also important for well-being is having fun, taking stock and expressing gratitude. So, we explore those themes, too.
As with mostly anything, it’s not what you do some days that makes the needle move — it’s what you do MOST days. For better or worse!
For instance, taking a vacation every week would be financially and practically unfeasible, but taking a trip a few times a year is doable. So, start planning one this month. Eating a big juicy steak or a cheesy pizza isn’t the best thing for your long-term health but splurging occasionally is good for the soul.
It’s not the sometimes choices we make, it’s the most-of-the-time choices.
Here’s to vacations, regular exercise, entertaining with friends and family, healthy eating, working hard and a good night’s sleep. We’re rooting for you.
MICHAEL BEIGHTOL, PUBLISHER
January 2025
PUBLISHER
Michael Beightol | michael.beightol@citylifestyle.com
EDITOR
Stephen Neilson | stephen.neilson@citylifestyle.com
STAFF WRITER
Christina Sikorski
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Claudia Martin Ayoade, Kim Mikus, Emily O'Brien, Christina Sikorski
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
Michael Beightol, Graham Blus, EB Combs, Elliot Fisher, Janie Jones, Ian Mclellan, Jennifer Nickels, Stephen Neilson, Christina Sikorski, Christopher Sikorski, Kasia Vetter
Corporate Team
CEO Steven Schowengerdt
COO Matthew Perry
CRO Jamie Pentz
CTO Ajay Krishnan
VP OF OPERATIONS Janeane Thompson
VP OF FRANCHISE DEVELOPMENT Erika Smiley
AD DESIGNER Josh Govero
LAYOUT DESIGNER Kirstan Lanier
QUALITY CONTROL SPECIALIST Marina Campbell
city scene
1: Oktoberfests/beer festivals occur around Chicagoland every fall; none’s bigger than Goose Island’s “Prop Day.” 2: Wauconda’s Side Lot features two artificial-ice curling sheets inside a comfy heated tent; info at TheSideLot.com 3: Graham Blus, Michael Beightol, Cassidy Towne and MJ Towne enjoyed the GPF Foundation’s 7th Annual Event. 4: Barrington Junior Women’s Club raised $80,000 for scholarships at their “Runway at the Palm Royale” fashion show. 5: The Lake Zurich Chamber recently welcomed new president Kathy Marrison (center) of Homewood Suites Chicago–Lincolnshire. 6: Winter snowshoeing, hiking & skiing returned to the Lake County Forest Preserves, including a night trail at Lakewood in Wauconda. 7: Teatro Zinzanni has extended their extraordinarily entertaining show’s Chicago run through Feb 16; details at ZinZanni.com/Chicago.
business monthly
The Return of Haberdashery in Downtown Barrington
“We believe that a well-dressed man can make a powerful impression,” said Peter Ostrowski, owner of Elite Clothes for Men, a new apparel shop at 202 S. Cook Street. Elite Clothes for Men has a collection of high-end menswear, including custom suits, casual wear, and bespoke attire, paired with in-house tailoring services. “It’s an honor to welcome Elite Clothes for Men to downtown Barrington,” said Suzanne Corr, President of the Barrington Area Chamber of Commerce.
Never Too Early to Think About a Tux for Prom This Spring
Chad Dershaw, co-owner of Mr. Tux’s Formal Wear (a SW Lake County institution), wants high school students and their moms to know the truth about shopping for a prom tux: Chain stores will not guarantee a first choice. Instead, this year students are being told to pick a 2nd choice. Get the tux you want, plus save $40 by showing your student ID. Enjoy prom more by visiting Mr. Tux first in downtown Lake Zurich.
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content by local creators.
news happening right in your neighborhood.
Photography: Carolyn McNamara
Gym
We have such amazing, innovative business leaders in our community who are proud to serve you, our residents, with class and quality. We’ve compiled some of our top company picks for the services that might be on your mind this month in an effort to make your lives a little easier.
Want to suggest a monthly pick?
The Smart Fit Method smartfitmethod.com | 847.443.3911
Restoration Fitness restorationfitness.com | 847.847.1837
Life Time Fitness lifetime.life | 866.770.1546
Orange Theory Studio - Kildeer orangetheory.com | 224.662.7177
Advocate Good Shepherd Health & Fitness Center facebook.com/GSHPHealthandFitness | 847.620.4500
Spa
Avalon Salon-Spa avalonsalonspas.com | 847.726.8855
Regency Med Spa regencymedicalcenter.net | 847.348.6425
Cara Mia MedSpa - Lake Zurich caramiamedspa.com | 847.238.9895
Body Life LUXE Spa bodylifeluxe.com | 224.347.6884
Main Street Wellness & Skincare mainstwellnessskincare.com | 331.336.6444
smart SWEETS
The beginning of the year is packed with inspiration and motivation to get back on track after a sweet-filled holiday season. It can feel extreme, and it also can be depleting to cut oneself off from everything indulgent after weeks of eating favorite sweet and savory recipes. For sugar lovers who believe going cold-turkey feels intimidating or overwhelming, nutrition-packed desserts are a great way to stick to healthy food goals without the guilt.
Nutrient-Rich Dessert To The Rescue
ARTICLE BY MEL BOBAN
This recipe is a classic favorite. If you cut the bars into 16 pieces, they are around 270 calories each. They are very filling, packed with healthy goodies and taste, oh so delicious. If you can’t finish them yourself (it makes a lot!), bring samples along to your next workout class to share the love. Your accountability group will be asking you for the recipe! These come in handy for a quick breakfast on-the-go or an afternoon snack. You’ll want to taste these out of the oven once they cool a bit... simply scrumptious.
Combine:
• 1 cup wheat flour
• 2 cups cooked quinoa, cooled
• 2 cups oats
• 2/3 cup of your choice of chopped nuts
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 2 tablespoons chia seeds
• 2/3 cup raisins
• Optional: chocolate chips as desired
• Optional: add additional seeds or nuts on hand such as pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, etc.
Notes: Boil quinoa at a 2:1 water to rice ratio. For estimating, 1/3 cup of uncooked quinoa yields 1 cup cooked quinoa.
Add this mixture slowly to combine:
• 2 eggs
• 2/3 cup peanut butter, almond butter or sunflower butter
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1 banana
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
Bake at 375 degrees for 20 minutes, or until when the edges get golden brown. Bake in a 9x13-inch glass dish. After they cool, slice and enjoy. Keep them covered to maintain freshness.
Quinoa BREAKFAST Bars
Frozen PEANUT BUTTER Bites
Danger ahead: this snack is amazing. It’s the easiest of the bunch and also satisfies a sweet tooth craving. This can be whipped together in just 5 minutes and makes just a small amount. Feel free to take creative liberty here with your amounts, but if you make it to this recipe, they are around 90 calories per bite.
1. Cut a banana into 8-10 small slices, around 1/2 inch each.
2. Spread 1/2 tablespoon of peanut butter (or your choice of nut butter) on each banana slice.
3. Drizzle a small amount of melted chocolate chips or caramel over each bite.
4. Freeze for 15-20 minutes and enjoy!
Pro tip: A dash of sea salt flakes on top of these can be *chef’s kiss.*
These are great to keep on hand in the freezer all weeklong. Once they set, add them to a closed container to keep the bananas from browning.
Late night snack cravings are real! When finding yourself rooting through the cabinets for a sweet fix, these protein cookie dough bites are a great way to curb temptation. This recipe yields around 20 small bites, which can be cut into small squares or rolled into dough balls. Each bite is around 105 calories. If you find the dough is a little too dry, add a dash of milk as needed.
Ingredients
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1/2 cup vanilla protein powder
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup peanut butter (or alternate nut or sunflower butter)
• 1 cup almond flour
• 1 teaspoon vanilla
• Chocolate chips as desired
Pro tip: Use mini chocolate chips and for a dash of savory add sea salt flakes on top. Once combined, store the bites in the refrigerator in a covered container to keep them moist.
Protein COOKIE DOUGH Bites
A view of the newly purchased portion of Cuba Marsh.
BUCKING THE TREND: A HEALTHY PUBLIC SPACE GROWS HEALTHIER
LAKE
COUNTY ACQUIRES DEER PARK PROPERTY FOR EXPANSION AND FUTURE PRESERVATION OF CUBA MARSH.
ARTICLE BY KIM MIKUS
BY MICHAEL BEIGHTOL
For the last 36 years the Lake County Forest Preserves Board of Commissioners has pursued the acquisition of a small but critical parcel in Deer Park.
In November – after reaching an agreement with the landowner – the purchase of a 9.4-acre property will complete the expansion of the Cuba Marsh Forest Preserve.
The land, south-adjacent to Cuba Road east of Ela Road, will be acquired for $725,000. “This property aligns perfectly with our mission to protect wildlife habitats, preserve wetlands, prairies and woodlands and expand our existing preserves,” said Executive Director Ty Kovach. “In 1988, we bought 110 acres that wraps around this parcel and have been waiting for the chance to secure this land.”
The landowner demolished buildings planning to plant native species on the land, but ultimately chose to list the property for sale with terms restricting placement of any structures or otherwise developing the property, stipulating it be designated as an Illinois Nature Preserve, buffer or Illinois Land and Water Reserve. Although open to the public, a deed restriction prohibits the construction of trails, parking lots, ball fields, golf facilities or dog exercise areas on this particular parcel.
However, these natural wetlands should contribute considerably to enhancing hydrologic restoration efforts, making it easier to carry out prescribed burns and other land management activities helping protect the entirety of Cuba Marsh, a pristine blend of marsh, woodland and grassland now covering 790+ acres of SW Lake County. This new parcel’s presence as a completely naturalized area of the preserve should strongly contribute to the health of the entire region.
Cuba Marsh already features three miles of trails for hiking, bicycling and cross-country skiing, guiding visitors through open areas of gently rolling hills featuring views of the marsh and groves. Amenities available to all visitors include picnic tables, public parking areas and toilets. A gravel trail winds from the southern loop of the main trail through the southwest corner of the preserve to Barrington’s Citizens Park, a striking sojourn that includes a boardwalk and a 50-footlong timber bridge.
“We are excited to continue the restoration efforts on this new property, further enhancing the preservation of this important area,” said Angelo Kyle, president of the Lake County Forest Preserves.
For further information on Cuba Marsh, visit LCFPD.org/ cuba-marsh online.
PHOTOGRAPHY
West of the new parcel, the Cuba Marsh Preserve has major public access attributes including a lengthy boardwalk used by bikers, hikers & skiers all year long.
YOUR FITNESS GOALS 2025
RELY ON DIET, EXERCISE, WELLBEING, SLEEP, AND FINDING JOY TO NURTURE A BETTER SELF.
As we step into 2025, setting and achieving fitness goals remains a top priority for many. Comprehensive wellness includes a balanced diet, consistent exercise, mental well-being, quality sleep, and, importantly, finding joy in the journey. Here’s a roadmap to help you craft a healthier and more joyful you this year.
ARTICLE BY MICHAEL BEIGHTOL PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
BALANCED DIET
Nutrition is the cornerstone of any fitness plan. A balanced diet fuels your body, aids recovery, and boosts overall health. Focus on incorporating a variety of nutrient-dense foods and healthy practices:
• Whole Foods: Opt for fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats. These provide essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
• Hydration: Drink plenty of water throughout the day. Proper hydration aids digestion, maintains energy levels, and supports bodily functions.
• Portion Control: Be mindful of portion sizes to avoid overeating. Eating smaller, more frequent meals can help maintain energy and prevent hunger.
CONSISTENT EXERCISE
Exercise is vital for physical fitness and mental health. Aim to incorporate different types of physical activities. Whatever you do, remember that consistency is key, so set a workout schedule that includes a variety of activities to keep you motivated and prevent boredom:
• Cardiovascular Exercise: Activities like running, cycling, or swimming enhance heart health and burn calories.
• Strength Training: Lifting weights or performing bodyweight exercises builds muscle and increases metabolic rate.
• Flexibility and Balance: Yoga, Pilates, or stretching routines improve flexibility, balance, and reduce injury risk.
ESTABLISH ACHIEVABLE GOALS THAT ALIGN WITH YOUR LIFESTYLE. CELEBRATE SMALL VICTORIES TO STAY MOTIVATED.
MENTAL WELL-BEING
Mental health is just as important as physical health. Prioritizing mental well-being engages practices that enhance your mental and emotional state:
• Mindfulness and Meditation: Practice mindfulness or meditation to reduce stress, improve focus, and enhance emotional regulation.
• Gratitude Journaling: Keeping a gratitude journal can shift your focus to positive experiences and foster a sense of appreciation.
• Social Connections: Engage in meaningful relationships and social activities. Positive social interactions boost happiness and reduce stress.
QUALITY SLEEP
FIND JOY IN THE JOURNEY
In this new year we should all crave sleep; it's so crucial for recovery and overall well-being. Adequate sleep restores energy, enhances cognitive function, and supports mental health:
• Consistent Sleep Schedule: Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day to regulate your body’s internal clock.
• Sleep Environment: Create a restful environment — dark, quiet, and cool. Invest in a comfortable mattress and pillows.
• Limit Screen Time: Reduce exposure to screens before bedtime as blue light can interfere with sleep patterns.
The ultimate goal is to find joy and satisfaction in your fitness journey. Here’s how:
• Set Realistic Goals: Establish achievable goals that align with your lifestyle. Celebrate small victories to stay motivated.
• Enjoy the Process: Choose activities that you enjoy. Whether it’s dancing, hiking, or playing a sport, doing what you love makes exercise feel less like a chore.
• Self-Care: Treat yourself with kindness and care. Listen to your body and give it the rest and care that it needs.
• Mix It Up: Variety is the spice of life. Mix up your routine to keep things interesting and challenging.
Focusing on these aspects, you can create a well-rounded and sustainable fitness plan for 2025.
Remember, the journey to wellness is unique for everyone — embrace it with positivity and joy. Here’s to a healthier, happier you!
Finding Help: We're better together, so if you think you need guidance and help reaching your fitness goals please check out BlueZones.com, a guide to living better and longer. Author Dan Buettner traveled the world to visit communities with the longest-living residents. He also inspired a 4-part NetFlix series, "Live to 100 - Secrets of the Blue Zones."
Top: Kraken / giant squid exhibit by Light Wall at the Ela Area Public Library. Photo: Christina Sikorski
Middle: "Life-size" unicorn statue with its famous horn at the Ela Area Public Library. Photo: Christopher Sikorski
Bottom: Teen Librarian Sonya Hill on her inflatable dragon laughs with patrons at the giant bone exhibit at the Ela Area Public Library. Photo: Jennifer Nickels.
GIANTS, DRAGONS, and UNICORNS
Here, there be dragons… but only until February 2.
As part of a touring exhibit from the American Museum of Natural History, the Ela Area Public Library is showcasing "Giants, Dragons, & Unicorns: The World of Mythic Creatures," focusing on history and legend.
Mythical creature narratives have existed for centuries, and this exhibit helps shed light on the origins of these tales, including how mythical creature legends were often based on real animals.
For example, the enormous sea monster that frightened mariners may have been the giant squid, a huge animal with an eye the size of a dinner plate. Visitors will find a model kraken rising from the library floor, tentacles extended.
Also from the sea, the spiraled tusk of a narwhal may have inspired the stories of unicorns. Visitors to the library can touch a narwhal tusk, as well as take selfies next to a beautiful “life-size” model of a unicorn.
On land, the fossils of dinosaurs and prehistoric animals like mastodons and mammoths may have influenced legends of giants in ancient Greece. Having never seen an elephant, medieval Europeans did not know to look for eyes on the side of the head. When placed side-by-side with a human skull and its forward-facing eyes, people could not fathom a mastodon skull with side-facing eyes and a large trunk in the middle. They saw a gigantic skull with a large round eyehole: the cyclops.
The exhibit spans both floors of the library and can be enjoyed via a complimentary audio tour. The exhibit is available during library hours,
CONTINUED >
Exploring the Origins of Our Myths, Stories and Legends
ARTICLE BY CHRISTINA SIKORSKI
PHOTOGRAPHY BY JENNIFER NICKELS, CHRISTINA SIKORSKI, CHRISTOPHER SIKORSKI
Mermaid Mami Wata at the Ela Area Public Library. Photo: Christina Sikorski.
Young patron with costumed heroes Maui, Loki, and Thor on Opening Day of the Mythic Creatures Exhibit. Photo: Jennifer Nickels.
9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Ela Area Public Library Deputy Director Natalie Ziarnik says, “This exhibit gives visitors fresh insight into the possible origins of favorite myths, stories, and legends. Visitors of all ages are invited to experience a world where science and fantasy intermingle.” Visitors can rearrange modeled-to-scale mammoth bones to resemble a human skeleton, or build their own digital dragon that comes to life on screen. There are sculptures of mermaids and griffins, the head of a large Chinese parade dragon, as well as a cast skull of the Protoceratops dinosaur.
SPECIAL PROGRAMMING ALERT
Students can earn collector Mystic Medallions by attending special programs or visiting the Children’s Desk to complete an exhibit scavenger hunt. Events in January include:
• Teen Mythical Bingo (everyday).
• Author Talk with Candace Fleming regarding her children’s book, "Giant Squid." (1:30 p.m. Sunday, January 5).
• Dave DiNaso’s Reptile Show (10 a.m. Saturday, January 11).
• “Cryptozoology and Hidden Animals” with David George Gordon. (7 p.m. Wednesday, January 16: teens and adults).
• Chinese Parade Lion Dance. (1:30 p.m. Saturday, January 18).
• Mythical Mystery Quest, a hands-on life-sized “Clue”-like game. (10:30 a.m. Saturday, January 25: all ages).
About the American Museum of Natural History (AMNH), sponsor of this touring exhibit: In New York City, the museum is one of the world’s preeminent scientific and cultural institutions. Since its founding in 1869, AMNH has advanced its global mission to discover, interpret, and disseminate information about human cultures, the natural world, and the universe through a wide-ranging program of scientific research, education, and exhibition.
For more information about the Ela Area Public Library, including registration for all other programs, visit EAPL.org. The library is at 275 Mohawk Trail in Lake Zurich.
Young patrons explore the globe of dragon tales. Photo: Christopher Sikorski
“This exhibit gives visitors fresh insight into the possible origins of favorite myths, stories, and legends.”
A patron views the display illustrating origins of myths regarding unicorns, griffins and giants.
Costumed character Captain Jack Sparrow talks giants with a young patron. Photo: Jennifer Nickels.
Patrons explore the touch screens of the sea monster exhibit as giant squid tentacles rise from the library floor. Photo: Jennifer Nickels.
PLANT-BASED EATING
ARTICLE BY CLAUDIA MARTIN AYOADE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
If you think a plant-based diet is strictly for vegans or vegetarians, think again.
Plant-based eating is more of a lifestyle than a diet. You are simply eating more foods that are closer to their harvested state with minimal processing.
Meatless diets have been shown to improve health outcomes by lowering the risk of developing heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, inflammation, and some cancers. It also improves gut health by adding fiber to your diet.
A plant-based diet still allows you to consume the carbohydrates, protein, fats, minerals and vitamins necessary for good health, with the added benefits of being higher in fiber and phytonutrients.
You do not have to give up meat entirely. There are many labels to identify where you choose to fall in your plant eating journey. Plan ahead and do what is comfortable for you, so you will stick with it.
And remember: a meat-free diet does not automatically mean "healthy", if you replace the meat with highly processed junk food and meat substitutes.
You can choose to be a flexitarian (a middle ground) where you occasionally eat meat but you choose plants as your primary foods, allowing some flexibility with your diet.
If you choose to be a vegetarian, then you do not eat meat, but you can still eat eggs and dairy products.
Or, you can choose to be a vegan, who chooses to eat no animal products.
There is also another reason to add more fruits and vegetables to your daily food intake; it is better for the environment. The industries that produce our dairy and meat products are said to account for a third of the world’s water usage doing so, in addition to producing considerable greenhouse gas emissions.
Eat your greens and help save the planet!
SOME TIPS TO GET STARTED ON YOUR PLANT-BASED JOURNEY:
Make small changes to test your comfort level when reducing meat intake. (There is a risk of being overwhelmed if you suddenly stop eating meat altogether, and it could be harder to stick to your choice long term.) Increase consumption of plant foods you already like.
Plant based diet does not mean boring. You can create a variety of dishes including ethnic meals that are meat-free and delicious. This is a great time to try new spices to add a punch to your vegetables and add green leafy vegetables to your smoothies.
Use the whole plant. There are nutrients in every part of the plant including the stems and leaves. Use the leaves from celery, radishes, beets and carrots, and use the stems from spinach, cilantro and chard. Don’t throw away vital nutrients like potassium, vitamin C and fiber; you'll also reduce waste. Eat the rainbow! Choose different-colored fruits and vegetables to get a variety of nutrients. The color of plant-based foods is often an indicator of the vitamins and minerals they contain; so, more colors mean more nutrients. Example: Orange foods contain beta carotene, the precursor for vitamin A.
If you do not eat any animal products, you will need to take a B12 and possibly an iron supplement. Vitamin B12 is an essential vitamin available naturally only in animal products. Low B12 can cause anemia and damage to the nervous system. Some vegan foods benefit being fortified with vitamin B12.
About the Author: Claudia Martin-Ayoade is a Registered Dietitian, Writer and Public Speaker who is passionate about educating people on nutrition and addressing food insecurity.
2025
events
A SELECTION OF UPCOMING LOCAL EVENTS
JANUARY 3RD
Exploring Historic Diaries
1899 W. Winchester Road, Libertyville | 1:30 PM
See how bookbinding changed over time and bind your own book to bring home. Materials are included for this event at the Dunn Museum. The museum’s collection includes specially bound diaries and journals to explore and touch. Learn more at LCFPD.org
JANUARY 7TH - 19TH
Shucked
18 W. Monroe Street, Chicago
Matinee and evening performances available for “Shucked,” a story about a hero and a swindler deep in Cob County. Writer Robert Horn previously won a Tony Award for “Tootsie” and used his comedic pen for this show in Chicago after a successful run on Broadway. Recommended for ages 10+. Presented at the CIBC Theater by BroadwayInChicago.com.
JANUARY 10TH
The Nielsen Trust
1208 N. Green Street, McHenry | 7:00 PM
Rick Nielsen from Cheap Trick and his talented family will perform at the Vixen in downtown McHenry. Rick, his sons Daxx and Miles, and daughter-in-law Kelly Steward promise to bring the heat with an eclectic mix of Cheap Trick and original tunes. This is an all ages show. Tickets at VixenMcHenry.com.
JANUARY 13TH
Howl at the Moon on a Full Moon Hike
41080 N. U.S. Highway 45, Antioch | 5:00 PM
Meet at the Raven Glen Forest Preserve to learn about nocturnal creatures here in Lake County. Dress for the weather and be prepared for a mile-and-a-half hike. Presented by the Lake County Forest Preserves. Learn more at LCFPD.org/raven-glen
JANUARY 13TH
Navigating the Winter & Holiday Blues
Wauconda Area Public Library, Lincoln Room | 7:00 PM
A representative of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) will provide an overview of the various stressors people can experience over the winter months, symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder, and strategies you can use to mitigate stress. Enroll in this onehour class on or before January 13, 2025 at 7:00 p.m. at no charge at WaucLib.org
JANUARY 15TH
On the Air at Copper Fiddle Distillery
532 W. Illinois Route 22, Lake Zurich | 7:00 PM
Have Amanda, Copper Fiddle's distiller, mix up your favorite cocktail from spirits made and aged right on premise; then, wander on back to enjoy the musical stylings of On the Air, featuring Jim Bartholomew and Rusty Young. More details on the distillery and their music calendar at CopperFiddleDistillery.com.
High Finance Farm is curating a special group of boarders, share boarders and riders to join our barn family. Special attention for our more mature Equestrians from riding instruction to group activities.
CONTINUED
JANUARY 18TH - 19TH
Interactive Treasure Island
121 W. Van Buren Street, Woodstock
Yo Ho, Yo Ho for “Treasure Island.” Children will join either Captain Long John Silver or Captain Smollett as part of their crews. Other audience members will do sound effects, scenery, and props. Don’t be a scallywag, come and find the treasure. Shows both days at 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. Presented at the Woodstock Opera House. Register at WoodstockOperaHouse.com
JANUARY 24TH
Mariachi Herencia de México
19351 W. Washington Street, Grayslake | 8:00 PM
The Latin Grammy-nominated group, La Nueva Generacion, celebrates Mexican music and culture. Simultaneously honoring the past, celebrating the present, and creating the future, this will be an electrifying and unforgettable night of Mexican music and culture. Presented at the James Lumber Center for the Performing Arts at the College of Lake County. Tickets at JLCenter.CLCIllinois.edu
JANUARY 26TH
Elgin Symphony Orchestra Performs "Tchaikovsky’s Pathétique Symphony"
20 DuPage Court, Elgin | 2:30 PM
Chad Goodman, conductor, leads the Elgin Symphony in a compelling program that includes Tchaikovsky's Pathétique, his final completed symphony (1893) finished as the Russian composer faced the inevitable. Guest cellist Matthew Agnew will also perform. For tickets and more go to ElginSymphony.org
JANUARY 27TH
Romeo and Juliet
275 Mohawk Trail, Lake Zurich | 6:30 PM
Meet the Montagues and Capulets in scenes from Shakespeare’s great tragedy, and win a chance for tickets to the full February performance in this one-time preview by the award-winning drama department at Lake Zurich High School. Presented at the Ela Area Public Library; EAPL.org
JANUARY 30TH
Strictly
Self Defense
Wauconda Area Public Library, Lincoln Room | 6:30 PM
The attendees of this two-hour adult class will participate in a series of discussions and be introduced to basic physical self-defense skills and techniques. Training will focus on three key areas: Mindset, Skill Set and Planning. No charge for attendance. Registration is required at WaucLib.org; registration is limited.
FEBRUARY 4TH - MARCH 30TH
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat
10 Marriott Drive, Lincolnshire
See one of Broadway’s most enduring shows of all time. In this reimagining of the story of Joseph, his father Jacob, 11 brothers and the coat of many colors, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s and Tim Rice’s score is packed with pop and musical theatre classics. For showtimes and tickets go to MarriottTheatre.com
