Family Focus Travel

You have reached the travel planner who believes every family deserves a vacation filled with wonder, laughter, and zero stress. With over 30 years in the corporate arena, I know firsthand how precious your time is—and how critical it is to step away from deadlines, meetings, and overflowing inboxes. That’s why I’ve made it my mission to create vacations where you get to relax, recharge, and simply enjoy the magic. I’m not just passionate about Disney destinations, Mickey Mouse and I are basically best friends. My daughter and I have spent countless vacations exploring Disney parks and resorts, learning all the little secrets that turn a good trip into an unforgettable one. From the perfect parade spot to the must‑try snacks to the hidden gems most guests miss—I’ve lived it, loved it, and can’t wait to share it. Think of me as the human version of Tinker‑Belle: I fix things, I build things, and I sprinkle a little pixie dust and enchantment when I plan Disney Vacations. Whether you’re dreaming of a multigenerational adventure, a first‑time visit, or a return to your family’s happy place, me and my pixie dust are ready to craft a vacation that fits your family perfectly. No stress. No guesswork. No endless planning tabs open on your laptop. Just magic—tailored to you.

Will County

Lauren Traut

Chicago Metropolitan Area

Mokena

Illinois

You have reached the travel planner who believes every family deserves a vacation filled with wonder, laughter, and zero stress. With over 30 years...

WindyCity Security is a WBE-certified, woman-owned security

WindyCity Security

WindyCity Security is a WBE-certified, woman-owned security system provider based in Frankfort, Illinois. Since 2009, the company has specialized in comprehensive security solutions for retail, industrial, financial, and educational clients across Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, and Michigan. They serve as a single point of contact for the design, installation, and ongoing maintenance of integrated security infrastructure. The firm offers a specialized suite of services including security fog systems, anti-shatter window film, high-definition IP camera systems, and remote monitoring. Their expertise extends to advanced access control and biometric locking systems, with a focus on navigating complex local ordinances and BIPA compliance requirements. By managing every element from cabling to software dashboards, they ensure that security hardware remains functional and effective long after the initial installation. Customers can expect a transparent, consultative approach that begins with a complimentary site walkthrough to identify specific vulnerabilities. WindyCity Security differentiates itself through a commitment to long-term reliability, ensuring that maintenance and support are readily available to keep systems performing at their peak.

Andrea Earnest

Frankfort

WindyCity Security is a WBE-certified, woman-owned security system provider based in Frankfort, Illinois. Since 2009, the company has specialized...

Smile Obsession in Frankfort, IL, provides high-quality gene

Smile Obsession

Smile Obsession in Frankfort, IL, provides high-quality general, family, and cosmetic dental care in a modern, family-friendly environment. Located at 10085 W Lincoln Hwy, the clinic serves patients of all ages with a commitment to comfortable and accessible dental health services. The office maintains extended hours Monday through Thursday until 8:00 PM to accommodate busy schedules. The practice offers a comprehensive range of services, including dental exams, teeth cleaning, whitening, implants, root canals, and restorative treatments like crowns and bridges. Dr. Oleksii Negreskul, who holds a CAGS in Operative Dentistry from Boston University and completed a preceptorship in Oral Medicine at Rutgers, leads the clinical team with a focus on patient-centered care and advanced digital workflows. Patients can expect a transparent and supportive experience, with the office accepting all PPO insurance plans and offering flexible financing through CareCredit and Sunbit. New patients are invited to take advantage of a $59 special that includes a comprehensive exam, digital X-rays, and a professional cleaning.

Smile Obsession in Frankfort, IL, provides high-quality general, family, and cosmetic dental care in a modern, family-friendly environment. Located...

Come shop our fresh selections of rotating seasonal produce.

Dean’s Greens Farmstand at Boley Farm

Located on the scenic Boley Farm in Orland Park, IL, Dean's Greens is your go-to destination for fresh, locally grown plants and produce. We offer a vibrant selection of annuals, perennials, hanging baskets, vegetable plants, and finished vegetables—perfect for gardeners and food lovers alike! You’ll also find artisan breads, local organic honey, and seasonal favorites, all curated to support a healthy, sustainable lifestyle. Visit us - open 7 days a week - at 8101 W 151st St to experience friendly service, farm-fresh products, and a charming rural atmosphere.

Cook County

Orland Park

Located on the scenic Boley Farm in Orland Park, IL, Dean's Greens is your go-to destination for fresh, locally grown plants and produce. We offer...

Scoliosis and Orthopedic Physical Therapy Private Practice

The Curve Clinic PLLC

At The Curve Clinic, we provide specialized physical therapy services for children, teens, and adults with a focus on scoliosis care through the Schroth Method, as well as pediatric and adult orthopedic rehabilitation. Our mission is to deliver individualized, evidence-based care that helps every patient move better, feel stronger, and improve confidence in their daily lives. We specialize in the Schroth Method, a non-surgical scoliosis approach designed to improve posture, breathing mechanics, spinal alignment, strength, and overall function. Each treatment plan is tailored to the unique needs of the individual, empowering patients and families with education and exercises that support long term success. In addition to scoliosis-specific care, The Curve Clinic provides comprehensive orthopedic physical therapy to a wide range of conditions including posture-related pain, sports injuries, developmental concerns, joint and muscle pain, mobility limitations, and recovery from injury or surgery. We are committed to creating a supportive and compassionate environment where patients of all ages can achieve their goals and return to the activities they love. At The Curve Clinic, we believe movement matters, and every patient deserves personalized care that promotes strength, function, and quality of life.

At The Curve Clinic, we provide specialized physical therapy services for children, teens, and adults with a focus on scoliosis care through the...

country concrete inc

We are a family owned and operated business, serving Frankfort and surrounding communities. Wewe specialize in stamped and decorative concrete. We also do pools, driveways, walks and much more. Our reputation is strong and our goal is quality craftsmanship and exceptional customer service. 

We are a family owned and operated business, serving Frankfort and surrounding communities. Wewe specialize in stamped and decorative concrete. We...

Clearway Promise providing a seamless process!

Clearway Exteriors

Clearway Exteriors is a professional roofing and exterior remodeling contractor serving homeowners across Illinois and eastern Iowa. With primary locations in Tinley Park, IL, and Clinton, IA, the company specializes in protecting and enhancing residential properties through expert installation and repair services. Their team is dedicated to providing a seamless customer experience, ensuring every project is handled with clear communication and professional care. The company offers a comprehensive suite of exterior services, including roof replacement, repair, and inspections, as well as siding, gutter, window, and door installations. They also provide professional exterior painting and soffit and fascia services to maintain the structural integrity and curb appeal of homes. With specialized expertise in storm damage restoration, Clearway Exteriors is well-equipped to handle complex insurance claims and urgent exterior needs. Customers can expect reliable, high-quality workmanship backed by a commitment to transparency and 24/7 emergency availability. By combining premium materials with honest, detailed estimates, Clearway Exteriors ensures that every homeowner receives a durable, cost-effective solution tailored to their specific property requirements.

Tinley Park

Clearway Exteriors is a professional roofing and exterior remodeling contractor serving homeowners across Illinois and eastern Iowa. With primary...

Hope, healing & justice for abused children.

Will County Children's Advocacy Center

The Will County Children's Advocacy Center was founded in 1995 by State's Attorney James Glasgow to partner with multidisciplinary teams (MDTs) comprised of law enforcement, DCFS investigators, medical personnel, prosecutors, and Will County CAC forensic interviewers, family advocates, and trauma therapists in response to reports of severe physical abuse, sexual abuse, commercial exploitation, neglect, and exposure to violence of children, in Will County, IL. Our Will County CAC intake/MDT coordinator, forensic interviewers, family advocates, and trauma therapists provide the following services: * Forensic Interviews: After a child is referred to the Will County CAC by law enforcement or the IL Dept. of Family Services (DCFS), our Intake Coordinator schedules a forensic interview for the child. One of our 4 forensic interviewers listens to the child’s story and asks non-leading, developmentally-appropriate questions as the child talks about the trauma he/she has experienced. Law enforcement, prosecution, DCFS, and mental health professionals observe the interview from a separate room. This reduces trauma for the child and provides a stronger foundation if the case goes to court. * Family Advocacy: Our family advocates are committed to helping each family navigate the complex systems that a family enters when a child makes an outcry of abuse. As each case goes through the investigation, prosecution and healing process, the team is there to help the family understand the process, learn about their rights and successfully access resources that will help their family during crisis. * Trauma-Focused Therapy: Our team of licensed clinical social workers provide short-term, trauma informed therapy to children who have received a forensic interview. Since child abuse affects the whole family, the services are available at no cost to both the child and their non-offending family members. Individual and group therapy is offered in English and Spanish.

Will

Crest Hill

The Will County Children's Advocacy Center was founded in 1995 by State's Attorney James Glasgow to partner with multidisciplinary teams (MDTs)...

The Franciscan Sisters of the Sacred Heart announce its new leadership and new Mandatum. The 2024-2029 Mandatum is: Set ablaze the fire of God's newness…community, church, cosmos. With the Word in my heart, I cannot keep quiet. With the Word in our heart, we cannot keep quiet. We thank our outgoing Leadership Team for five years of faithful service (2019-2024): Sr. Joyce Shanabarger, General Community Leader; Sr. Norma Janssen, Vicaress; Sr. Judith Plumb, 2nd Councilor; Sr. Nancy Roberta Schramm, 3rd Councilor; Sr. Christina Fuller, 4th Councilor The congregation asks for prayers for both outgoing and incoming leadership.

The Franciscan Sisters of the Sacred Heart announce its new leadership and new Mandatum.

The 2024-2029 Mandatum is: Set ablaze the fire of God’s newness…community, church, cosmos. With the Word in my heart, I cannot keep quiet. With the Word in our heart, we cannot keep quiet. We thank our outgoing Leadership Team for five years of faithful service (2019-2024): Sr. Joyce Shanabarger, General Community Leader; Sr. Norma Janssen, Vicaress; Sr. Judith Plumb, 2nd Councilor; Sr. Nancy Roberta Schramm, 3rd Councilor; Sr. Christina Fuller, 4th Councilor

The congregation asks for prayers for both outgoing and incoming leadership.

Frankfort Sisters Announce New Leadership

Franciscan Sisters Elect new Leadership Team

Neighbor News

New Lenox

Oak Forest

Manhattan

Homewood-Flossmoor

Chicago Heights

Lorraine Swanson

Palos

Homer Glen-Lockport

Don't miss the chance to save on the biggest names in lighting and home decor during our Annual Storewide Sale. Shop our in-store discounts of -25% off all regular retail prices on in stock and special ordered items in categories of lighting, ceiling fans, home decor and more, as well as unbeatable deals starting at -70% off under our tent. 
This is the biggest sale we run all year, you don't want to miss it! Sale Days and Hours- Thursday September 17th, Friday September 18th 9am-5pm and Saturday September 19th 9am -4pm&nbsp;

Local Event: Annual Storewide Sale and Clearance Event 

Annual Storewide Sale and Clearance Event 

Don't miss the chance to save on the biggest names in lighting and home decor during our Annual Storewide Sale. Shop our...

The CLRC Will Celebrate America 250/239 at the September Open House
The Club’s first open house of the 2026-27 season, September 19, will celebrate America 250/239. The open house date falls during the Congressionally established Constitution week (September 17-23 of each year) and will celebrate the 239th anniversary of the signing of the U.S. Constitution on September 17, 1787, and the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. To celebrate the two anniversaries:
·The clubhouse will be specially decorated for the day
·In the morning a George Washington reenactor will circulate among the visitors and discuss the Constitution
·From 1:00 p.m. until 2:00 p.m. Revolutionary War reenactors who are descendants of actual Revolutionary War soldiers will be present in the dress of the era and will circulate among the visitors
·There will be a special photo area where visitors can take their pictures with a life size George Washington cut out
·In recognition of our country’s 250th anniversary all rolling stock and engines in the retail shop will be discounted 25% 
Tell your family and friends about the event and give them an opportunity to enjoy watching model trains while learning about our nation’s history. 
September 19th Open House details:
-​The Open House will be on Saturday, September 19, 2026, from 9:00 am until 3:00 PM.-We are located at 1311 South Schoolhouse Road Unit 4, New Lenox, IL. 

-Admission – $6.00 per person, $15.00 for the whole family.Food and beverages are available for purchase, but the popcorn and parking are free. For more information about our club check out our Facebook page or website at Chicagoland Lionel Railroad Club. 



<hr>

Local Event: Chicagoland Lionel Railroad Club September 19th 2026 Open House 

Chicagoland Lionel Railroad Club September 19th...

The CLRC Will Celebrate America 250/239 at the September Open House
The Club’s first open house of the 2026-27 season,...

Chicagoland Lionel Railroad Club September 19th 2026 Open House 

Pints &amp; Pork 9/19/26 
 This Saturday, September 19th. Head to our website www.pintsandpork.com to see what it is all about. You will not want to miss this event. St. Joseph School&nbsp; in Manhattan IL is serving up the best pork and beer in Will County. Under the big tent on the West lot, enjoy all the smoked pork and craft beer samples, plus you get to vote for best beer, best pork and best pairing. That's right our smokers have paired up with craft beer vendors for a most savory tasting. We will have pop, water and even some seltzers as well. Enjoy live music from the amazing Grace &amp; John and some great chances to win baskets and 50/50 split the pot. Tickets are available at the link below and by accessing the QR on the flyer below and attached. This is an amazing fall night out that you won't want to miss. It is a 21 and over event. No minors please.Or go to our website pintsandpork.com for tickets. 

https://PintsandPorkSJS2026.eventbrite.com

Local Event: Pints and Pork 

Pints and Pork 

Pints & Pork 9/19/26 
 This Saturday, September 19th.  Head to our website www.pintsandpork.com to see what it is all about....

Flipside Brewing

Flipside Bazaar: Beers, Burgers &amp; Shopping. returns to Tinley Park September 20 ! Come sip and shop small, enjoy some craft beer and check out the smash burgers!Where? Flipside Brewing - 7144 183rd St, Tinley Park, IL 60477 When? 9/20/2026 from 11am to 5pm. What? Flipside Bazaar: Beers, Burgers &amp; Shopping.Home Décor, Local Art, Jewelry, Self Care and unique one-of-kind items is what the artists and makers bring. The brewery brings a wide assortment of delicious food items, spirits including Malort and their own craft beers. All of this will combine to make an amazing afternoon at this Tinley Park brewery. Since the last show, the brewery has expanded their outdoor patio so there is more seating, and more chances to have a relaxing sip &amp; shop adventure! This event is hosted by the Streetz Artz Alliance. The Streetz Artz Alliance is an advocate for small, local artists and handmakers and the breweries of the Chicagoland area. Share this with your friends, plan to attend and invite a few people to the event. No reservations are required. Artist List: Abearcub Wraps Accents by Rosey Adrix cositas &amp; crochet Bosco's Marketplace Cookie's Gluten Free Kitchen Crafty Creations DK Custom Woodwork Co. FeFe’s pickles and peppers Honey Grove Jeannine’s Jems La Rosa Escobedo Masterclass Savory Sweet Foods Robin Monique Rios Art Snowingstars Event is all ages and it is free. I will never charge for entry at one of the Streetz Artz Alliance shows. Let's support the brewery and the artists first. In addition, the parking lot is huge so parking won't be an issue. Come one, come all. See you soon

Local Event: Flipside Bazaar: Beers, Burgers & Shopping!

Flipside Bazaar: Beers, Burgers & Shopping!

Flipside Bazaar: Beers, Burgers & Shopping. returns to Tinley Park September 20 ! Come sip and shop small, enjoy some craft...

North Central College

Our Voices, Our Minds: BIPOC Youth Navigating Discrimination in Education
ALMAS and North Central College invite students, families, educators, and community leaders to an evening of dialogue, reflection, and empowerment focused on the lived experiences of BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) youth navigating discrimination in educational spaces. The event features an interactive panel discussion with BIPOC youth — including first-generation high school and college students — sharing personal stories alongside mental health professionals offering clinical insight. A community resource fair runs alongside the panel, connecting attendees with local youth-serving and mental health organizations, plus entertainment, interactive activities, and complimentary food.
Free and open to the public. Spanish interpretation provided.
📅 Wednesday, September 23, 2026 | 🕔 5:00–8:00 p.m. 
📍 North Central College, Wentz Science Center – Stevenson Hall (2nd Floor), 131 S Loomis St, Naperville, IL

Local Event: Our Voices, Our Minds: Bipoc Youth Navigating Discrimination In Education

DuPage County

Naperville

Our Voices, Our Minds: Bipoc Youth Navigating...

Our Voices, Our Minds: BIPOC Youth Navigating Discrimination in Education
ALMAS and North Central College invite students,...

Our Voices, Our Minds: Bipoc Youth Navigating Discrimination In Education

🕯️ Bootanical Bash at Alsip Nursery
Saturday, October 17 | 6–9 PM | Ages 21+ Alsip Home &amp; Nursery
Step into the greenhouse after dark for a night of plants, potions, prizes, food, drinks, and Halloween fun! Join us for the Bootanical Bash, an adults-only evening surrounded by the eerie atmosphere of our greenhouse after dark.
Come dressed to impress, grab a drink, and get ready for a night unlike anything else at the nursery.
🍂 Your Bootanical Bash Ticket Includes:
🌱 Plant Bingo — 3 Prize Rounds Test your luck with three rounds of Plant Bingo, with plants and botanical prizes up for grabs!
🍝 SPoOoghetti Dinner Fill your plate with our spooky spin on a classic spaghetti dinner.
🍺 Three Drinks Included Each guest receives three drink tickets, redeemable for:
<ul><li>Beer</li><li>Wine</li><li>Seasonal non-alcoholic cider</li></ul>
🎃 Mini Cauldron Party Favor Every guest takes home a mini cauldron planted with String of Pearls, creating a bubbling botanical treat!
💃 Monster Mash We'll be keeping the party going with great beats that go bump in the night!
👻 Costume Contest Come dressed in your best Halloween costume for a chance to win! Prize Categories Are:
🕷️HAUNT OF THE NIGHT Scariest Costume
🍄CREATURE OF THE CONSERVATORY Best Botanical Themed Costume
👻THE WICKED GARDEN PARTY Best Group or Couple Costume
🌿 40% OFF HOUSEPLANTS Your ticket gets you access to a one-night-only 40% OFF Houseplant Sale during the event. Stock up on your favorite creepy-cool plants while you're here!
🎟️ Tickets
$40 per person 2 for $70
Space is limited, so grab your tickets and join us for a night of botanical mischief, spooky cocktails, dinner, dancing, and plants galore.
The greenhouse hits different after dark. Come see for yourself at the Bootanical Bash!

Local Event: Bootanical Bash - Bingo & Costume Contest

Bootanical Bash - Bingo & Costume Contest

🕯️ Bootanical Bash at Alsip Nursery
Saturday, October 17 | 6–9 PM | Ages 21+ Alsip Home & Nursery
Step into the greenhouse after...

🌱 Patch AM: Parents Pull 6 Lincoln-Way East HS...

Spotted on the Frankfort calendar: Annual Storewide Sale and Clearance Event 

🌱 Patch AM: Parents Pull 6 Lincoln-Way East HS Students Linked To Racist Taunts, Avoid Expulsion

Community Corner

Parents Pull 6 Lincoln-Way East HS Students...

Six students involved in racist harassment at a Homewood-Flossmoor High School football game have been allowed to voluntarily withdraw. 

Parents Pull 6 Lincoln-Way East HS Students Linked To Racist Taunts, Avoid Expulsion

6 Lincoln-Way East HS Students Dodge Expulsion, Voluntarily Withdraw From School

Schools

🌱 Patch AM: Spirit Halloween Opens Frankfort...

Make time for Multi Family Garage Sale 9/17-9/19 on the Frankfort Patch calendar

🌱 Patch AM: Spirit Halloween Opens Frankfort Location

Spirit Halloween Opens Frankfort Location

Spirit Halloween will open 56 stores in Illinois this year.



Business

Frankfort Acupuncture Clinic Opens Its Doors...

Complimentary acupuncture treatments will be offered, focusing on supporting stress, anxiety and grief.

Nearby Communities

State Edition

National Edition