Dorothy Gale said it best: “There’s no place like home.” That is exactly the sentiment of the 36th Annual Housewalk presented by the Service League of Crystal Lake.
“This year’s theme, ‘There’s No Place Like Home,’ could not be more representative of our four houses,” said Linda Yackle, Service League publicity chair. “Once you step inside each one, you’ll see that they are truly beautiful, yet comfortable and livable homes. All are a true representation of the homeowners. There really is no place they’d rather be than home.”
On Friday, September 10, all are invited to tour four extraordinary Crystal Lake homes at this year’s Housewalk during new hours: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. or 5 p.m. to 9 p.m.
This year promises to showcase some spectacular properties not to be missed. “The 2010 Housewalk chairpersons, Jennifer Jenkins and Lis Tevyaw, have gone out of their way to secure four fabulous homes,” Yackle said.
One Ticket, Four Homes, One Big Prize
The Housewalk committee is proud to offer the same ticket prices as the past several years. Between August 10 and September 9, prices will be $20 for adults and $15 for seniors aged 62 and older.
Tickets are available online at www.slcrystallake.org or at Countryside Flower Shop, Wickham Interiors, 1776 Restaurant and Mum Floral Design. And as always, Service League members will have tickets available for sale.
On the day of the event, tickets will be $25 for adults and $15 for seniors. Many local businesses, including restaurants, are offering discounts to be used in conjunction with the Housewalk.
“The beauty of our Housewalk is that you get to see not just one, but four houses for the price of one ticket,” Yackle said. “Many other area house tours charge the same price to see only one home.”
On the day of the event, the Service League will hold a raffle drawing. “Last year’s cash grand prize was such a popular, sought-after prize that we’ve decided to offer that once more,” Yackle said. “So once again, this year’s raffle winner will receive $1,000.”
Community of Support
The Service League knows it takes a bighearted community of volunteers and supporters to pull off such a big, exciting event, especially in this economic climate.
“We’re truly thankful for the very generous spirits of this year’s homeowners, as well as homeowners throughout the years,” Yackle said. “All have graciously opened their doors in support of the Service League and all the work we do in the community. Without them, this major fundraiser would not be possible.”
Attending directly supports the Service League’s efforts to help the community. Last year, amid a challenge economic time, the Housewalk raised $22,000. The Service League, which has operated for more than 80 years, uses all of the money raised to reach out to families in need, and award educational scholarships to local students who need financial assistance.
The goal this year is to reach $23,000.“The Housewalk is our largest annual fundraiser,” Yackle said. “In today’s economy, we are seeing much greater need to help our neighbors. No one can do it alone, and this is a terrific way to enjoy a day and help others at the same time.”
>> For more, call 815-261-4590.
And now, McHenry County Living’s showcase of stunning Crystal Lake homes to be featured in the 2010 Housewalk (gallery below):
The Ritters, Turnberry: Perched on the shores of a private lake, there is no bad view from inside or outside of this extraordinary home.
The Izquierdos, Hills of Turnberry: Old and new come together in this home dotted with prized possessions from Tracy’s Swiss grandparents’ travels.
The Dimitrious, Colonel Holcomb Estates: The outdoor features of this home — including the gorgeously landscaped yard and the built-in backyard pool — make this
home a summer haven.
Courtney and Brian Macke: This downtown Crystal Lake bungalow will rouse the senses with its whimsical use of color and accents.







