I've never woken up and thought, "Gee, I'm feeling good, I might go buy some art today." But that's…read morebasically how my day ended up unfolding this past Saturday. While doing the Groundhog Day walking tour, we decided to check out the Old Courthouse/current Arts Center just for the hell of it. I'm not really into art unless it involves renderings of cute animals or my favorite celebrities (I wouldn't mind a nice over-the-fireplace portrait of Bill Murray or Bernie Mac or David Letterman), but for the most part, when I hear people talk about art I just have to drift off to another place to keep myself from rolling my eyes at the pretension, but here, I didn't get that... at all. We walked around and were shocked with the collection of works here as well as the quality and lessn't we forget price. They had handmade unique pottery that was unlike any pottery I'd ever seen before and pretty much priced for a limited budget person such as myself. There were many rooms to roam though, leading in a circle around the main room with register and beautiful older ladies with long, stringy grey hair - exactly the way you'd picture older, artsy, free-spirited women. In the second to last room in the round-about gallery, I found something that basically stopped me in my tracks. It was titled 'Fortune Teler' and it was a relatively giant framed canvas, full of color, it had hanging beads, mini-lightbulbs, little sequins set into the partial gold-filigree'd frame with a the work itself being completely covered in bright but shadowy colors that had an orange/yellow-haired boy flipping over two unreadable tarot cards for a big, green cat and a magenta rhino (that at first I admittedly though was an aardvark - my favorite animal next to manatees). I couldn't be torn away from it. And it was only (and normally I would've shit my pants over this price) $150. I took a pics of it, spent another 4-hours with it on my mind while we walked the town and went back 15 minutes before close to seal the sale. The woman said she was sad to see that painting go but could tell from looking at me that we were a right match, which may have all been pillow-talk, but it really does feel like it was made for me. I do wish they'd had a bit more information on the artist and painting but, it was right on the dot when they were closing and they were able to take down my info so hoping I'll hear back, and if not, I'm fine with just having the painting, too.

I'm not really an art gallery person, but this was one of only a couple places open on a Sunday…read moreafternoon, so my husband and I walked around. The historic building holds several rooms with assorted paintings and sculptures from local and national artists. Some are landscape paintings while others are strange mobiles made of wood. One display was a large photo of a naked obese woman laying on a pile of books, along with an actual pile of books below the photo! It was kind of cool walking around and seeing some of the local talent, plus some part of the building itself (we found a heavy metal door that said "McHenry County Records" from the 19th century. If you're around, drop in for a few moments. You'll be entertained.

This pantry is filled with love and support! It is supported by the community for the community!read more

Today, I was denied food because I didn't have my ID card that was given to me last time I was…read morethere. The lady in charge spoke to me in front of other people, like I was a child. She ordered me to go back to my car and look for the card. I tried explaining that I must have lost it. Then she told me to go home and look for it and then come back. She said I could not get any food without that card. I felt berated and humiliated. I went back to my car and cried. I am 69 yrs old and I can't believe a person working for a Community service would treat someone like this. Is it her food? What right does she have to decide who gets food and who doesn't. I've only been there 2 or 3 times because I hate asking for help, but I really could have used some food today. I will never go back there again. I would rather go without than ask for food again.

I have been a volunteer for this organization for some time now and I am continually amazed by how…read moremany lives are positively impacted by the efforts of such a small group. Small activities like their backpack drive in August and the Toy Drive in December reach hundreds of kids in McHenry County. What;s more, they are 100 volunteer driven, so every dime goes to fund their programming and community outreach. April is Child Abuse Awareness month and the group kicks of the Blue Ribbon Campaign with events and activities for the whole family, ending with a charity 5K race to benefit the organization. Volunteers are always needed and are a big part of what makes this group so special. It's an example of what a few dedicated people can do together- have a huge impact on the community! From the web site: It's Our Little Secret (IOLS) is a non-profit organization comprised of volunteers dedicated to providing a voice to emotionally, physically, and sexually abused children and teens through advocacy, creative expression and various programs. It is IOLS' mission to promote a healthy recovery for the abused children and youth, and to stop the destructive future behavioral patterns of the abused towards their own and other children. It's Our Little Secret's goal is to make a difference in the lives of the children and youth through our various programs and services. It is our goal that the youth that we serve will learn to love themselves and enjoy life, learn to LIVE and not just survive.

This should be anybody's first stop when furnishing or updating a new home. The selection of…read morefurniture, lighting, appliances, and more is phenomenal.

Wow, this store has amazing things, came with my friend and i love the merchandise . They had a lot…read moreof hidden treasures at decent prices. From antiques to gardening tools . Even large appliances.

New Morning is a beautiful place for an individual or small group retreat. (I've done both.) The…read moreindoor space is a bright and beautiful 19th Century farmhouse. The outdoor space offers several gardens, a fire circle, and a pool! Jenny and Matthew are incredible hosts. They served delicious meals, were easy to communicate with, and took care of all our questions and needs. Highly recommended.

Mane in Heaven is a truly special organization. Not only is what they do incredibly special, but…read morethe volunteers are very special too. Everyone is very friendly, welcoming, and compassionate. You can really tell these volunteers love what they do.

LOVE Jill's workmanship and attention to detail!read more

This pantry is a lifesaver…read more Having been laid off in Feb 2023, it has been a challenging experience, and this food pantry has greatly eased our anxieties and fears. I had never been to a pantry before, so I don't know if the process is similar to others, but what they have going on here is a mix of formality and yet an air of dignity and respect. Here's the general process: - Grab a ticket at the sign and wait for your number to be called - If it's your first visit, you'll have some paperwork to fill out, and it's not too long, but it makes sense, as they want to confirm your needs and track access - Based on the number of people in your household, you're allowed to select a certain number of fresh and frozen proteins, packaged and canned goods, and breads/carbs. - There is also a section of "grab-what-you-need" at the front, which still has limits, but they don't count against your total number of goods - At the end, they load your items in a cart for you to load in your car Everyone here is friendly and accommodating. I have accidentally over loaded on some of the categories of food and they have kindly allowed me to switch or select what I'd like to keep. I'm still unemployed, but this pantry has made our difficult season a lot less stressful. If you need help, please don't feel prideful or ashamed... go to the pantry!

Last year I was in a position to need to go to the food pantry. It was embarrassing but everyone…read morethere was kind and loving. I was suprised at how generous and high quality the offerings were. If your in a bad situation you should go.