Beyond the Book, A Literary Experience

Bookstore • Coffee • Podcast Studio Step into Beyond the Book, a cozy literary haven where stories, coffee, and community come together. More than a bookstore, we’re a creative hub for readers and writers—celebrating diverse authors, hosting inspiring workshops, and nurturing the next generation of storytellers. From our South Suburban Literary Book Award to our Aspiring Authors Workshop, we honor the power of words to connect and transform. Whether you’re writing your first page or sipping your favorite brew, you’ll find your place, and your story, Beyond the Book. Through collaborations with thought leaders, nonprofits, and corporations, Beyond the Book weaves together a community where the love of reading, writing, and authorship is celebrated and cultivated with intention.

Cook County

Lauren Traut

Chicago Metropolitan Area

Homewood-Flossmoor

Illinois

Bookstore • Coffee • Podcast Studio Step into Beyond the Book, a cozy literary haven where stories, coffee, and community come together. More than...

We bake the best desserts and cookies in Tinley Park!

Crumbl Tinley Park

With a delicious variety of gourmet treats, we’ve got you covered with in-store pickup, delivery, and catering options from our locally-owned dessert bakery. Our desserts in Tinley Park are made fresh daily with a weekly rotating menu of over 300 flavors! From the best chocolate chip cookies to delectable pies and cakes, our desserts are perfect for gifting and sharing with friends and family.

Tinley Park

With a delicious variety of gourmet treats, we’ve got you covered with in-store pickup, delivery, and catering options from our locally-owned...

Become a Volunteer Meal Driver: Just 2 Hours a Week

Meals on Wheels for Northern Illinois

For thousands of older adults across Illinois, a knock at the door is more than just a food delivery—it is a vital lifeline. At Meals on Wheels for Northern Illinois (MOWFNI), we are dedicated to helping our senior neighbors live independently, safely, and with dignity in the homes they love. We achieve this through nutritious food, wellness checks, and the power of human connection, but we cannot do it alone. The Power of Our Volunteers Our volunteers are the heartbeat of MOWFNI. If you have just two hours a week to spare, you can make a profound difference. Delivering meals fits seamlessly into a midday routine or lunch break. As a volunteer driver, you do far more than hand over a meal; you provide a friendly smile, a warm conversation, and a crucial safety check for a senior who might not see anyone else that day. We offer flexible scheduling that allows you to volunteer weekly, monthly, or as part of a team with coworkers or friends. Our Core Programs: Home-Delivered Meals: We provide hot, dietitian-approved meals delivered directly to the doorsteps of those who cannot cook or shop for themselves. Community Cafes: Beyond home delivery, our vibrant Community Cafes offer a welcoming space for active older adults to gather, enjoy a delicious lunch, socialize, and build meaningful friendships that combat senior isolation. Make a Local Impact Today When you support or volunteer with MOWFNI, you are directly investing in the health and happiness of older adults right here in our neighborhood. Whether you are looking to give back during retirement, connect with your community, or get your local business involved in a meaningful cause, there is a place for you in our volunteer family. Join us in delivering more than a meal. Visit mowfni.org/volunteer-sign-up to fill out a brief volunteer application, or call us today to learn how you can start changing lives—one hour, one smile, and one senior at a time.

Will County

Andrea Earnest

Bolingbrook

For thousands of older adults across Illinois, a knock at the door is more than just a food delivery—it is a vital lifeline. At Meals on Wheels for...

Book now for spring exterior painting and deck staining

Orland Painting and Decorating Service LLC

Local family owned painting contractor with 36 years experience specializing in interior and exterior painting, drywall and plaster repair, wall covering installation , interior window refinishing, power washing and deck repair and staining.

Orland Park

Local family owned painting contractor with 36 years experience specializing in interior and exterior painting, drywall and plaster repair, wall...

A Calm, Inclusive Space for Mental Wellness

Step-by-Step: The Spa for Your Mind

Step-by-Step: The Spa for Your Mind is a modern mental wellness practice focused on therapy, emotional balance, and personal growth. We provide a calm, affirming, and inclusive environment where clients can explore their mental health at their own pace. Our approach centers on compassion, self-awareness, and individualized care rather than pressure or one-size-fits-all solutions. We support individuals experiencing stress, anxiety, burnout, life transitions, and emotional overwhelm. Step-by-Step is committed to culturally responsive and LGBTQ+ affirming care, ensuring that all clients feel safe, respected, and heard. Mental wellness is a journey, and we are here to walk it with you, one step at a time. Two locations to serve you: • Evergreen Park Location: 9730 S Western Ave, Suite 203, Evergreen Park, IL 60805 • Homewood Location: 1820 Ridge Rd, Suite 303B, Homewood, IL 60430

Lorraine Swanson

Evergreen Park

Step-by-Step: The Spa for Your Mind is a modern mental wellness practice focused on therapy, emotional balance, and personal growth. We provide a...

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/homewoodford" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Ford of Homewood</a> is hosting their Spring Adoption Event Saturday, June 21st, from 12pm-3pm! <a attributionsrc="/privacy_sandbox/comet/register/source/?xt=AZWKBIN-vLNlzM8PeveecLZw9I5QwFnFPt-SX9SjMbuB6l1PPKPqgpUOg-HnoCyO5imsNebDfSAgTzgKkfD99ZHk3Ep3FPkCv2kMnT_dp54eM6-Rp_rwhsRnxIlK0evc_qJ85kS1roW7gvDiA2kz8mx-pqtwfYrStNZMsMRCRCp9s9Olh7hGRlcQgLWIhiw5wokmbuBqbbz6LluEu_575d3feOpzEea3_6Dn3mJBoUPXqqWBOZE4oNIEU4Gx8cIXRNpoppQIZ9a_SSvCFlWuD1wxB-SLvt9kqwleeDYJRBFuD7MVIYtrnqtSqhvzgFd0uFh8cgI1tmbfW8kBekoKBvpP7lvecc189JFRG0YyUzYCh3TEEH1lFKScbg9bf-iLcKcR__lRsivVddkO2Tc9CTOcFMHMk2XnzUgY9VlIWo90WpjnsiVzbcCzfXmr854EyY7Os0aX0AiuSv_XumMjIaXP1eyAXb0ufahocvapouLuA3NVJcxhplzWSflXarm6b0wsH9Y0wn8JS5-hUfF2sznaVj_ZVSWjH4FPiUJVp-zMiVFAkNjitMcmO8G-Xh6I4BZyo2U-XxaiZrxjQq6hxSQ_gob1jHkt_M5O2fakIjQCauBrk8xKKm43V59kWG--ZcIsy7T9GTko30oTkXnIYG_R7-WUZLLL2bGaRmh5qtUlKAZILjF9EU12EvmLXCJFrVlmDPyclr_Ou3KrkuZKJulm37TLKzwZ77asOkx4xvpZF64zD2S2B3u4hNekWDd3WGtNfNEeLMMFDa-XHy6Iy9gMz03spt9YVMDCrD3DuTwGjwtwlo4fj2OsMob94LSbM-MRRSErNt5A-n9zCmy4tdq0yG45kBjIr2XmKlHhnn3aywatRP9vx4NyRnadzU2eGaruLivKgrQ0Ys_QXvdEjHBiWBKgaqWv7LUuu359dJfhehFq6I1AwOuzqUyUx8kVHai_kKEJfcMEg5-WLCCEDo57iES3DCuOsASwk6sw-tyabCg4zmRNUpaMMLcupF6GJf11dBAz-mb8b0cuk-rsjRf1yA0757YViTvBeQpiCBEDfEzv6bN5B0CCDY93OOBWTq43HNeKqwcTyvMUDUFGkU6IwTxhrcGDMYTowy8sS5Xpg26Q_LVCfswkK55m3HKiH3NG0YdJS6vMX55t4ZC6CZyILSPKLFGclmVGercWaTqlkY9521II4RtFBhD0e2OWqVHPeYJEUItmAnwT4_iAc7H2SqT-3xNk1uYC7dE14ZNrKo5q2GrHuGvPtxB0aatlSLRbI72BegbNCYDjuY3p7vS2-3PoE4oMSjDV2nub0Ylj9OjogaA5ogdy-Do6gf3261HKtnl-TAqXtEmjciBzL88wB3v533N-eef0qA-cZKs3TaR7Ntinh4X_eaPxKotmCCKMdqVjUYn-_hd0hxVD6vmc" class="x1i10hfl xjbqb8w x1ejq31n xd10rxx x1sy0etr x17r0tee x972fbf xcfux6l x1qhh985 xm0m39n x9f619 x1ypdohk xt0psk2 xe8uvvx xdj266r x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r xexx8yu x4uap5 x18d9i69 xkhd6sd x16tdsg8 x1hl2dhg xggy1nq x1a2a7pz x1sur9pj xkrqix3 x1fey0fg xo1l8bm" href="https://www.facebook.com/SouthSuburbanHumane?__cft__%5B0%5D=AZVNPAOHhir_dyy4YSQ7PPhVyuVRkcrZ16tIx-3cNWq2I9Ehfl6VASINGHFn_U9v1otq5ijYvpQIey1BKHMziSGjLaawUP6pDGbM76tuFe_0sSTbwKjV-nYT05gDjkZ7Ji2hZT3VC4IEofb_Lh4_6BYjp0HYhygAu41DGkiNFtpz_Q&amp;__tn__=-%5DK-R" role="link" tabindex="0" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">South Suburban Humane Society</a> will be at the dealership with kittens and dogs of a variety of breeds and ages, but with one thing in common: They are all looking for a home. As Ford of Homewood's gift to you, all adoption fees will be covered by the dealership! This will mark the eighth adoption event hosted by the dealership since starting up in September 2023, during which nearly 3 dozen rescue pets have found loving homes. Stop by their newly renovated showroom, and find a new buddy for summer!3233 W. 183rd St, Homewood IL 60430 (708)798-1668

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/homewoodford" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">Ford of Homewood</a> is hosting their Spring Adoption Event Saturday, June 21st, from 12pm-3pm! <a attributionsrc="/privacy_sandbox/comet/register/source/?xt=AZWKBIN-vLNlzM8PeveecLZw9I5QwFnFPt-SX9SjMbuB6l1PPKPqgpUOg-HnoCyO5imsNebDfSAgTzgKkfD99ZHk3Ep3FPkCv2kMnT_dp54eM6-Rp_rwhsRnxIlK0evc_qJ85kS1roW7gvDiA2kz8mx-pqtwfYrStNZMsMRCRCp9s9Olh7hGRlcQgLWIhiw5wokmbuBqbbz6LluEu_575d3feOpzEea3_6Dn3mJBoUPXqqWBOZE4oNIEU4Gx8cIXRNpoppQIZ9a_SSvCFlWuD1wxB-SLvt9kqwleeDYJRBFuD7MVIYtrnqtSqhvzgFd0uFh8cgI1tmbfW8kBekoKBvpP7lvecc189JFRG0YyUzYCh3TEEH1lFKScbg9bf-iLcKcR__lRsivVddkO2Tc9CTOcFMHMk2XnzUgY9VlIWo90WpjnsiVzbcCzfXmr854EyY7Os0aX0AiuSv_XumMjIaXP1eyAXb0ufahocvapouLuA3NVJcxhplzWSflXarm6b0wsH9Y0wn8JS5-hUfF2sznaVj_ZVSWjH4FPiUJVp-zMiVFAkNjitMcmO8G-Xh6I4BZyo2U-XxaiZrxjQq6hxSQ_gob1jHkt_M5O2fakIjQCauBrk8xKKm43V59kWG--ZcIsy7T9GTko30oTkXnIYG_R7-WUZLLL2bGaRmh5qtUlKAZILjF9EU12EvmLXCJFrVlmDPyclr_Ou3KrkuZKJulm37TLKzwZ77asOkx4xvpZF64zD2S2B3u4hNekWDd3WGtNfNEeLMMFDa-XHy6Iy9gMz03spt9YVMDCrD3DuTwGjwtwlo4fj2OsMob94LSbM-MRRSErNt5A-n9zCmy4tdq0yG45kBjIr2XmKlHhnn3aywatRP9vx4NyRnadzU2eGaruLivKgrQ0Ys_QXvdEjHBiWBKgaqWv7LUuu359dJfhehFq6I1AwOuzqUyUx8kVHai_kKEJfcMEg5-WLCCEDo57iES3DCuOsASwk6sw-tyabCg4zmRNUpaMMLcupF6GJf11dBAz-mb8b0cuk-rsjRf1yA0757YViTvBeQpiCBEDfEzv6bN5B0CCDY93OOBWTq43HNeKqwcTyvMUDUFGkU6IwTxhrcGDMYTowy8sS5Xpg26Q_LVCfswkK55m3HKiH3NG0YdJS6vMX55t4ZC6CZyILSPKLFGclmVGercWaTqlkY9521II4RtFBhD0e2OWqVHPeYJEUItmAnwT4_iAc7H2SqT-3xNk1uYC7dE14ZNrKo5q2GrHuGvPtxB0aatlSLRbI72BegbNCYDjuY3p7vS2-3PoE4oMSjDV2nub0Ylj9OjogaA5ogdy-Do6gf3261HKtnl-TAqXtEmjciBzL88wB3v533N-eef0qA-cZKs3TaR7Ntinh4X_eaPxKotmCCKMdqVjUYn-_hd0hxVD6vmc" class="x1i10hfl xjbqb8w x1ejq31n xd10rxx x1sy0etr x17r0tee x972fbf xcfux6l x1qhh985 xm0m39n x9f619 x1ypdohk xt0psk2 xe8uvvx xdj266r x11i5rnm xat24cr x1mh8g0r xexx8yu x4uap5 x18d9i69 xkhd6sd x16tdsg8 x1hl2dhg xggy1nq x1a2a7pz x1sur9pj xkrqix3 x1fey0fg xo1l8bm" href="https://www.facebook.com/SouthSuburbanHumane?__cft__%5B0%5D=AZVNPAOHhir_dyy4YSQ7PPhVyuVRkcrZ16tIx-3cNWq2I9Ehfl6VASINGHFn_U9v1otq5ijYvpQIey1BKHMziSGjLaawUP6pDGbM76tuFe_0sSTbwKjV-nYT05gDjkZ7Ji2hZT3VC4IEofb_Lh4_6BYjp0HYhygAu41DGkiNFtpz_Q&amp;__tn__=-%5DK-R" role="link" tabindex="0" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">South Suburban Humane Society</a> will be at the dealership with kittens and dogs of a variety of breeds and ages, but with one thing in common: They are all looking for a home. As Ford of Homewood's gift to you, all adoption fees will be covered by the dealership!

This will mark the eighth adoption event hosted by the dealership since starting up in September 2023, during which nearly 3 dozen rescue pets have found loving homes. Stop by their newly renovated showroom, and find a new buddy for summer!3233 W. 183rd St, Homewood IL 60430 (708)798-1668

Ford of Homewood Hosting Summer Adoption Event

The dealership is hoping to mark 35 adoptions during this event!

Neighbor News

Chicago Heights

Oak Forest

Lake County

Munster

Indiana

Alsip-Crestwood

Hammond

Frankfort

Chicago

Beverly-MtGreenwood

Mokena

New Lenox Village Commons

WE NEED YOU&nbsp;&nbsp;to join us for our 7th Annual Warriors Walk Ruck March on Saturday,&nbsp;September 19, 2026. <figure><img src="https://cdn20.patchcdn.com/users/3443549/20260830/113807/ruck-march___30113806463.jpg" id="Ruck March.png" data-image="Ruck March.png"></figure>The Warrior’s Walk
The Warrior’s Walk is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit corporation based in Illinois, uniting a network of VFWs, American Legions, businesses, and schools throughout the Chicago area. Together, we are dedicated to ending Veteran suicide and raising awareness of the mental health challenges faced by our nation’s heroes. 
 
Founded in 2019 by Ryan Brazel, the Warrior’s Walk has been proudly supported by the Harry E. Anderson VFW Post #9545 and has grown exponentially. 
 
In 2024, the Thomas E. Hartung American Legion Post #1977 transitioned from a lead supporter to a contributing partner, playing a pivotal role as we grew into an independent organization. 
 
With the support of our community, we are determined to make a lasting impact on Veteran suicide. Together, we can work toward a brighter future for those who have served.
<a href="https://form.jotform.com/252563467991167" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">form.jotform.com/252563467991167</a>
$169,500 has been donated to Combat Veterans Suicide<figure><img src="https://cdn20.patchcdn.com/users/3443549/20260830/113615/your-paragraph-text-1-1024x663___30113614878.jpg" id="Your-paragraph-text-1-1024x663.jpg" data-image="Your-paragraph-text-1-1024x663.jpg"></figure>About the March
The Warriors Walk is a FREE event dedicated to raising awareness of Veteran suicide prevention through a ruck march. A ruck march, a longstanding military tradition, involves walking while carrying a backpack or weighted pack, symbolizing strength, perseverance, and unity.
DISTANCE OPTIONS:
- The Memorial Mile (1 mile)- 5K (3.36 miles)

- 5 miles (4.8 miles)
- 10 miles (9.96 miles)
- 20 miles (19.5 miles)
WHEN &amp; WHERE
The third Saturday of September at 9:00 AM at the New Lenox Village Commons (1 Veterans Parkway, New Lenox, IL). Registration begins at 8:00 AM.
ROUTE
East along the Old Plank Road Trail toward the Frankfort VFW at Pfeiffer and Sauk Trl Rd. Halfway points for each distance will be marked, and participants will turn around and march back to the New Lenox Village Commons.
Making a Difference
The Warriors Walk supports Veterans and their families by raising funds for essential mental health care. Every dollar raised through fundraising, events, sponsorships, and partnerships goes to organizations that promote positive mental health for Veterans.
Our Commitment to Veterans
We collaborate with organizations that provide accessible, stigma-free mental health services for Veterans, Service Members, and their families. These organizations offer:
* Free and affordable therapy sessions tailored to trauma treatment.
* Ongoing access to mental health care through in-person and telehealth services.
* Personalized support through a network of experienced mental health professionals.
By participating in The Warriors Walk, you directly contribute to life-changing mental health services for those who have served our country.
Sponsor or donateCreate a Team and have friends sponsor you for every mile you walk. Check with your workplace to see if they will match the donations you raise. Remember, we are a 501c(3) not-for-profit corporation

Local Event: New Lenox 7th Annual 2026 WARRIORS WALK for Veterans Suicide Prevention

New Lenox

New Lenox 7th Annual 2026 WARRIORS WALK for...

WE NEED YOU  to join us for our 7th Annual Warriors Walk Ruck March on Saturday, September 19, 2026. The Warrior’s Walk
The...

New Lenox 7th Annual 2026 WARRIORS WALK for Veterans Suicide Prevention

🌱 Patch AM: How Homewood’s extended disaster...

And on the Homewood Patch calendar - Ayurvedic Practices for Early Autumn 

🌱 Patch AM: How Homewood’s extended disaster declaration changes tornado cleanup in September

Community Corner

🌱 Patch AM: Yin Yoga Foundations | Yin for the...

Coming up on the Homewood Patch calendar: Ayurvedic Practices for Early Autumn 

🌱 Patch AM: Yin Yoga Foundations | Yin for the Spine and 15 more events

Across Illinois

Sexual Conduct With Dog | Rescued Beluga Whale...

Rabid bat found | Judge deports six "abandoned" kids | Starving dogs found in home with dead animals | Teacher runs Mississippi River

Sexual Conduct With Dog | Rescued Beluga Whale Dies | Police Memorial Defaced: IL News

Across America

Sleeping Woman Wakes To Bat In Her Mouth: Weird...

Classroom catches fire and, of course, the snake was blamed; human skull donated to thrift; ‘Chucky’ suspect nabbed; that’s a big fish, man.

Sleeping Woman Wakes To Bat In Her Mouth: Weird News & Oddities

Woman Wakes To Bat ‘Kiss’: Weird News & Oddities

This Is The Stuff Of Night Terrors; Woman Wakes To Bat ‘Kiss’: Weird News & Oddities

River Run, Dog Day, Triathlon Triumph: Good...

This week, we revel in good news that includes the story a teacher who raised money for cancer research by running the Mississippi River. 

Nearby Communities

State Edition

National Edition

Neighbor News

Ford of Homewood Hosting Summer Adoption Event

The dealership is hoping to mark 35 adoptions during this event!

Sarah Maier, Neighbor

Find out what's happening in Homewood-Flossmoorfor free with the latest updates from Patch.

More from Homewood-Flossmoor

Multi-Agency Resource Center Coming To Homewood For Residents Impacted By Tornado

Son's Diagnosis With Heart Condition Inspires Homewood Woman's Fundraising Effort

South Suburban PADS To Celebrate Homewood Expansion With Ribbon Cutting