New Downtown Crystal Lake director calls downtown her ‘special place’

Lake in the Hills resident Lynn Reckamp says she’s lived in and around Crystal Lake on and off almost her entire life. For the past seven years, she’s been working as a manager for A-Z Interiors downtown, enjoying her interactions with other retailers and businesses.

Now, as the incoming executive director of Downtown Crystal Lake, she has the chance to directly shape the area’s future.

“I love my little downtown,” Reckamp said. “I think it’s charming. We’ve come a long way, and now I’m part of the next chapter in terms of making it even better.”

Reckamp, who previously was on the nonprofit’s marketing committee, said when current Executive Director Diana Kenney announced her retirement earlier this year, Reckamp knew it was something she wanted to do.

“This is a great place to spend time shopping, eating and drinking,” Reckamp said. “At Christmastime, it feels like you’re in a Hallmark movie.”

Earlier in February, Reckamp and several other local residents helped organize a champagne-and-chocolate “Galentine’s Day” downtown. Reckamp said that promotion produced a strong turnout at her business and others.

“We figured people have been cooped up all winter and want a reason to get out,” Reckamp said. “It was nice to see people come back downtown.”

While the community has been supportive of local businesses, Reckamp said, the foot traffic in the pre-COVID-19 “old days” has not returned. One thing Reckamp hopes to bring back are Thursday evening sip-and-shop events, when stores stay open late.

There are other long-term ideas Reckamp has cooking, but she said as director, one of her primary goals will be to help promote and organize the events that already a staple of the Crystal Lake calendar, including the Festival of Lights Parade and Johnny Appleseed Festival.

Reckamp holds a bachelor’s degree from Columbia College of Chicago and also is a member of the Service League of Crystal Lake.

She will start in her new position on Monday. Kenney, who has spent 22 years in the role, will be assisting with the transition through April.

Reckamp “will bring new ideas to build upon the current success of the Downtown organization,” board President Ben Volling said in a statement. “Diana Kenney will be available to assist in onboarding our new executive director, providing a smooth transition.”