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From Abundance
The holiday season is filled with images of pilgrims, feasts and gifts – and for good reason. We live in a land of abundance, where our farms offer a rich bounty and our retailers overflow with goods.
It may not always feel like a land of plenty, but there’s much we can be thankful for, just as those pilgrims felt some 400 years ago. Here was a group exiled from their homeland, in a new and unfamiliar world, hardscrabble as much as one can be hardscrabble. For them, the first Thanksgiving was a time to look on the positive side and give praise that they had come so far.
Their spirit still lives within us. This has been a year full of challenges big and small, times of great joy and deep heartache, times of peace and times of storm. And we’re still standing.
America is still a land of promise, where we can speak freely and worship freely. Ours is still a government of the people, by the people, for the people – and if you disagree you can still run for office and maybe change the world.
Here at home, this is still a land of opportunity, where hard work, perseverance and sacrifice can lead to a better life. Just ask our small-business owners who make this a great place to live, work and play.
Success is never guaranteed; yet those who are in need will find many a helping hand. Our region’s food banks, homeless shelters and numerous nonprofits – not to mention our churches – overflow with people who will help their neighbors through the darkness. Out of their own abundance comes a blessing to others.
For many of us, the holiday season is a time to reflect on the greatest gift of all: a little baby in a trough, who would show us a new way of spreading our abundance.
May this season and the year ahead be filled with warmth and joy and abundance. Happy Thanksgiving, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Chris Linden Executive Editor
It’s Magic at The Arboretum of South Barrington
By Chris Linden, executive editor
There’s magic in the air when the holidays descend upon The Arboretum of South Barrington. While this outdoor luxury mall is ripe with yearround entertainment, there’s something special this time of year.
“We transform our main street plaza into a huge holiday display, with a 32-foot castle, a light-up tree that dances to the music and many photo opps for visitors,” says Stacy Kallas, director of marketing. “It’s just an amazing atmosphere, so much so that people get engaged here, in front of our Christmas tree and castle.”
The magic starts Nov. 15 with the official Christmas tree lighting, sponsored by Barrington Bank & Trust. It also comes complete with a parade, children’s activities and special appearances by The Grinch and Santa.
The jolly old elf returns most Saturdays through December as he visits
with children and hosts special events like “Pizza with Santa,” on Dec. 3, when children can enjoy a slice with Santa, and all proceeds support a local charity. The Christmas train comes out on select weekends so children can enjoy a ride around the complex.
Moms and dads have plenty to enjoy, too, with more than 75 businesses located across The Arboretum. Christmas shoppers can stock up on gifts at national retailers like L.L. Bean, Sephora and Chico’s while also cashing in on the robust lineup of dining and entertaining, from Pinstripes and Star Cinema Grill to Sim Racing and The Greggory, a popular new neighborhood steakhouse.
As a sip-and-shop venue, The Arboretum also offers beverages to go, so mom and dad can imbibe while they stroll the blocks – and strolling here is mandatory. The Main Street feel, with
nities all over the plaza, big reindeer, a choo-choo for kids with free train rides, and a whole host of special events all season,” says Kallas. “It’s like a little Disneyland.”
The Arboretum of South Barrington is located at 100 W. Higgins Road, at the intersection of Ill. Rts. 72 and 59. Find out more about this season’s events at shopthearb.com. ❚
Holiday lights and an illuminated castle set the mood at The Arboretum of South Barrington.
(Photo provided)
Christmas The Dawn of Grace
While many details related to Jesus’ birth are murky, scriptures in both the Old and New Testaments couldn’t be clearer about his purpose for coming: to bring light and love to a dark world and everlasting life to those who choose to believe on him.
In Luke 4:16-21, shortly after Jesus began his ministry, we read that he went to his hometown synagogue in Nazareth, opened the scroll of the prophet Isaiah (part of the Old Testament, written some 700 years before he was born) and read:
“The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, to preach the acceptable year of the Lord.”
Then Jesus closed the book, gave it back to the minister, and sat down. Everyone stared at him, and he told them, “This day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears.”
While many religions recognize Jesus as a prophet, only Christianity celebrates him as the son of God and the messiah prophesied in the Old Testament. Christianity is entirely unique in its message of grace.
“For by grace are you saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God,” writes the apostle Paul in Ephesians 2:8.
John 1:17 tells us, “For the law was given by Moses, but grace and truth came by Jesus Christ.”
Jesus Christ extended salvation to all people, Jew and non-Jew, male and female, slave and free (Galatians 3:28). Shortly before his death by crucifixion, Jesus prayed not only for people who already believed on him, but for “all those who shall believe on me through their word” (John 17:20) – and that means us.
Why not take time this season to read for yourself the scriptures that describe Christ’s birth? You’ll find them in the first chapters of the gospels of Luke and Matthew.
Merry Christmas! ❚ –Janine Pumilia
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The Secret to a Showstopping Christmas Tree
By Peggy Werner
Every house needs a good Christmas tree, so to really help it stand out, try using a few tricks from the designer’s playbook.
First, be sure to measure the space where you’ll put it. Consider both height and width, says Laurie Kane, who owns Treetime Christmas Creations in Lake Barrington with her husband, Joe.
“The biggest mistake people make is buying a tree that is too big,” Kane adds. “The trees look smaller in the showroom, but at home a tree can quickly take over a space.”
Treetime is full of ideas to get you started, with nearly 200 styles of trees in addition to wreaths, garland, ornaments, storage, dishware and other accents. There’s also a resource center, full of hands-on demonstrations.
Once you know what size you’re working with, it’s important to think
about lighting your tree. Incandescent bulbs are still a favorite, but there’s a growing array of LED bulbs that come in softer tones and are longer lasting. Lights can be one color, multi-colored, color-changing and twinkling, or they can perform effects.
Trees come in a variety of densities. More space between the branches allows you to nestle more decor within the tree. A denser tree leaves decor at the tips of the branches.
You’ll also want to position and space your tree’s branches, smaller branches facing up to block the center pole and the other branches parallel to the ground – like a real tree.
Bigger ornaments go on first, toward the center of the tree. As you work
your way from the center, ornaments should get proportionately smaller. Add touches of floral, greenery, botanicals, bows and other special touches as you build up each successive layer.
“You want to create dimension and flow, so people can see in and around the tree,” Kane says.
Treetime Christmas Creations is located at 22102 N. Pepper Road, Lake Barrington. Call (847) 527-8880 or shop at treetime.com. ❚
The size, shape and density of your Christmas tree can make a big difference in how you decorate it.
The Holidays are Magical at the Box Office
By Peggy Werner
The beauty and excitement of the holiday season are on
full display at our region’s performing arts centers. In every corner of Chicagoland, you’ll find traditional and modern productions that are sure to get you in a festive mood.
“The holiday season is our busiest time of the year,” says Meredith Flowers, marketing and institutional advancement director at Raue Center for the Arts in Crystal Lake. “Everyone is going at full speed ahead, and it’s an exciting time to see new shows and those that have been loved for generations.”
Many Raue Center patrons begin the season with a Small Business Saturday performance, which this year is “Heartache Tonight: A Tribute to the Eagles” on Nov. 29.
It falls right in between Raue’s new production, “A Cripple Creek Christmas Carol,” Nov. 21-23 and Dec. 5-7. The show is a fresh take on Charles Dickens’ beloved classic.
Also new this year is “Dark Side of the Yule,” on Dec. 13, which combines rock hits from Metallica to Pink Floyd to Moody Blues to Evanescence with traditional carols, popular classics, holiday standards and more.
Singer and playwright Lisa Rock and her six-piece band perform “A Carpenters Christmas” Dec. 10, bringing back to life the much-loved tunes of Karen and Richard Carpenter. Hear favorites like “Merry Christmas Darling.”
“Jingle Bells Comedy” on Dec. 11 continues a long-running tradition with help from Ana Belaval of WGN Morning
News; Andrea Darlas, a broadcaster and storyteller; and Joanna Clark, a Chicago-based comedian.
Then, Elgin Symphony Orchestra returns with the Elgin Master Chorale for an evening of holiday music on Dec. 12, before the Engage Dance Theatre presents “The Nutcracker” Dec. 20-21, with a special sensory performance Dec. 19.
“We are a place for being with family and friends and feeling the holiday spirit,” says Flowers. “Nothing puts you in the mood for Christmas more than hearing beautiful holiday music.”
For information and tickets, call (815) 356-9212 or go to rauecenter.org.
Paramount Theatre in Aurora has a big lineup of holiday specials, beginning with a staging of “Irving Berlin’s White Christmas,” which runs Nov. 12-Jan. 11.
Next, enjoy an adultsonly, fast-paced comedy revue that’s stuffed with seasonal songs, sketches and a heaping slice of Second City’s improv comedy during “Jack Frost: Roasting on an Open Fire.” Running Nov. 20-Dec. 23, the
Elgin Symphony Orchestra takes its beloved holiday show on the road this year, with performances at Elgin’s Hemmens Cultural Center, Crystal Lake’s Raue Center for the Arts, St. Charles’ Norris Cultural Center, and additional stops in Barrington and Schaumburg.
(Carolyn Buhrow photo)
show takes up residence at Paramount’s Copley Theatre, located just around the corner from the main auditorium.
Movie Mondays are held year-round at Paramount Theatre, and during the holiday season the focus is on Christmas. For $1, see classics like “The Muppet Christmas Carol,” “Elf,” “How the Grinch Stole Christmas” and “Home Alone.”
“As always, Paramount is going all-out this holiday season with something for everyone,” says Tim Rater, president and CEO of Paramount Theatre.
For information and tickets, call (630) 896-6666 or go to paramountaurora.com.
Metropolis Performing Arts Centre in Arlington Heights ushers in the season with music, laughter and cheer.
“The magic of the holidays comes alive on our stage,” says Travis Hoying, marketing director. “Join us throughout December for festive shows filled with joy and wonder.”
The 11th annual “Home For The Holidays,” Dec. 2-3, features an evening with Tony Award-winner Levi Kreis. The show offers a seamless blend of jazz, soul and rockabilly.
A Metropolis tradition for all ages returns with “A Christmas Carol,” which runs Nov. 25-Dec. 24. Crystal Lake native Steve Connell returns as Scrooge in a new adaptation, written by Artistic Director Johanna McKenzie Miller.
“The Best Time of the Year,” on Dec. 7, features students from the Metropolis School of the Performing Arts and Celebration Singers as they perform a variety of holiday music. A few days later, Cabaret & Concerts presents “A Very Merry Metropolis Holiday Concert,” featuring Metropolis Children’s Choir, Dec. 9-10.
For information and tickets, call (847) 577-2121 or go to metropolisarts.com.
This season, Marriott Theatre in Lincolnshire mixes up the old with the new. “The Lovettes: Boogie Woogie Santa Claus” on Dec. 15-16 is a celebration of the women of the golden era of holiday pop. Marriott’s staging of “Million Dollar Quartet” offers a brand-new experience with stories and hits from rock ‘n’ roll legends Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins and Elvis Presley Nov. 5-Jan. 4. “The New Year’s Rockabilly Eve” features the cast of “Million Dollar Quartet” at 5 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. on Dec. 31.
For information and tickets call (847) 634-0200 or go to marriotttheatre.com.
Schaumburg’s Al Larson Prairie Center for the Arts focuses on the classics this holiday season.
“Although the arts center strives to have new offerings year-round, at the holiday time we are more about tradition,” says Eddie Sugarman, assistant director of cultural services. “The season is all about pulling the community together, celebrating the time of year and having fun.”
The capstone to the season is “A Holly Jolly Christmas” on Dec. 19. It features Zachary Stevenson, who mixes the sound of Buddy Holly with classic holiday tunes.
This year also marks the 30th anniversary staging of “The Nutcracker” with Schaumburg Dance Ensemble, a troupe of more than 100 youth and adult dancers. “Presto Holiday Concert” features the Schaumburg Youth Orchestra and the Schaumburg Choral Program on Dec. 20.
“This is our busiest time of year, in a wonderful way,” says Sugarman. “We are a great place to enjoy shows, music, decorations and each other.”
For information and tickets, call (847) 895-3600 or go to prairiecenter.org.
The Elgin Symphony Orchestra (ESO) takes its show on the road this holiday season. It starts on Dec. 4 with an interactive sing-along from Handel’s “Messiah” at Second Baptist Church in Elgin. Proceeds from the concert support Well Child Center, an Elgin nonprofit that supports childhood nutrition and dental health.
“The holiday season reminds us of the power of compassion, and we are deeply moved by the [church] committee’s generosity in selecting our organization,” says Chelsea Fosse, a board member at Well Child Center. “We have long admired this event and are honored the spirit of giving it embodies will now include families most in need in our community.”
On Dec. 5, ESO presents “Holiday Brass and Percussion” at Norris Cultural Center in St. Charles. ESO repeats the performance Dec. 7 at Saint Anne Catholic in Barrington and Dec. 9 at Prince of Peace Lutheran in Schaumburg.
A few days later, Dec. 13-14, ESO returns to Elgin’s Hemmens Cultural Center with “Holiday Spectacular,” the symphony’s annual program of carols and modern tunes.
“The Holiday Spectacular performances are a longtime tradition for many families, and that makes it fun for the musicians as they see their music connect with audiences, particularly children who may not have experienced a live ESO concert otherwise,” says Donna Lake, public relations manager for ESO.
For information and tickets call (847) 888-4000 or go to elginsymphony.org. ❚
Lisa Rock and her six-piece band perform “A Carpenters Christmas” on Dec. 10 at Raue Center for the Arts in Crystal Lake.
(Photo provided)
Find Your New Favorite at the CLB Taproom
By Chris Linden, executive editor
Many people think of Crystal Lake Brewing (CLB) as their own personal Cheers: a place where everyone knows your name and your favorite beer. Whether they’re hanging out at the taproom or the beer garden, it’s a place that easily feels like home.
“It’s meant to be a fun, familyfriendly, community-focused place,” says Beth Alberger, general manager. “This is definitely a place where people see their neighbors, coworkers, friends. People come after work and for retirement parties, or just to celebrate a special occasion. It’s a great, easy feel.”
The taproom in downtown Crystal Lake is humming most every day of the week. On Tuesdays, there’s trivia night. Wednesday is dart league. Food trucks show up five nights a week. And, there’s a variety of special occasions, like themed trivia, beer yoga, a summer concert series and brewer’s
nights, where brewmaster Ryan Clooney explores the lesser-known side of beer.
At the heart of this taproom is a lineup of easydrinking beers and a staff that wants to help everyone find their favorite. The menu includes several “core beers,” a combination of pale ales, a red ale and the Beach Blonde golden lager – a 2016 World Beer Cup winner.
CLB products are available at liquor stores and restaurants across our region, but only in the taproom can you catch a rotating list of seasonal beers and the occasional surprise, like the “wet hops” beer, available only around Labor Day because it’s made with fresh-off-the-farm hops.
“Some of our members help us with pouring beer at Crystal Lake’s
Lakeside Festival, and during our Oktoberfest release and our anniversary party,” says Alberger. “They want to help, and it’s fun to help. We have such a great community.”
Crystal Lake Brewing is located at 150 N. Main St. in Crystal Lake. The taproom is open Mon.-Thurs. 4-10 p.m., Fri. 3-11 p.m., Sat. noon-11 p.m. and Sun. noon-8 p.m. ❚
Beth Alberger and the team at Crystal Lake Brewing are dedicated to helping guests find their favorite beer.
Abednego Comfort Dog Builds Connections
By Steven Bonifazi, assistant editor
Not all bridges are built from stone, steel or wood. Sometimes, they sport a golden coat and walk on all fours.
At Immanuel Lutheran Church and School in Crystal Lake, a 3-yearold golden retriever helps connect people in ways words often can’t. Abednego Comfort Dog offers calm and companionship to students, parishioners and neighbors alike, one gentle nudge or wag at a time.
“He’s a bridge,” says Cheri Blazek, the volunteer leader of Abednego’s team. “He’s also a teacher of love, patience and kindness. It’s hard to think a dog can do all of that, but he can.”
Abednego joined Immanuel’s ministry last summer after two years of specialized training through Lutheran Church Charities (LCC) in Northbrook. Over the past 17 years, the national program has placed nearly 160 dogs with Lutheran ChurchMissouri Synod churches and schools across the country, each trained to stay composed in crowds, respond to emotional cues and bring comfort in difficult situations.
Like every LCC comfort dog, Abednego carries a biblical name and Bible verse. His is Daniel 3:28, and it comes from the story of three men in a fiery furnace. His “fiery brothers” are Shadrach, who serves at Prince of Peace Lutheran Church in Palatine, and Meshach, who’s stationed in Nebraska. There are several LCC dogs across the Chicago suburbs, including in Grayslake and Marengo.
Abednego reports for duty most days at the school and church office, where he shares space with Joe Ferwerda, director of youth ministry.
“People walk past, see Abednego and they find comfort,” Ferwerda says. “The open-door ministry happens all the time.”
On Wednesdays, Abednego attends chapel with the schoolchildren, and on Sunday mornings he greets people before worship. From there, his schedule varies. He visits public schools, retirement homes, and community events such as veterans’ walks or Girl Scout badge nights. He visits funerals and can even be called in after a tragedy, such as natural disasters or school shootings.
At Immanuel’s grief-care and outreach programs, Abednego’s quiet presence helps people process emotions that are hard to express in words.
“One afternoon a woman who’d lost a child came in. She couldn’t speak,” says Blazek. “Abednego went over and put his head in her lap, and she held him and cried for 20 minutes. He is a bridge.”
The ministry relies on a mix of handlers and ministry partners – volunteers who accompany Abednego to events, connect with the public and help spot those who might need comfort. Immanuel’s team of 17 is specially certified in handling dogs and communicating with people in crisis.
Abednego has opened many doors that Immanuel Lutheran might never have entered on its own, providing a spiritual presence where a pastor’s visit might once have felt out of place.
“If there’s a crisis in the community, they might not ask a pastor to come in, but they’ll invite Abednego,” says senior pastor Larry Tieman.
Abednego’s workdays stay busy but balanced. Each visit lasts a few hours and ends with a “paycheck” – brushing, massage and playtime. Vest on means he’s working; vest off means rest.
On Sundays, Abednego greets families before all three worship services, moving through the halls like a seasoned usher. He’s part of the rhythm now, and when he’s out on assignment, people notice, Tieman says.
“People look for him,” he adds. “When he’s not here, someone always asks, ‘Where’s Abednego?’”
Immanuel Lutheran Church and School is located at 300 Pathway Ct., in Crystal Lake. To request a site visit from Abednego or another LCC K-9 Comfort Dog, send an email to abednego@K9Comfort.org or follow him on Facebook. ❚
Abednego is an LCC K-9 Comfort Dog
Trained handlers like Wende Bryson (left) take Abednego to events across the Chicago area and beyond.
Keep Your CVT Transmission Maintained
By Jack Shields, Jax Auto & Tire
Many vehicle owners today don’t realize they have a newer-style transmission called a CVT, or continuously variable transmission. This is an automatic transmission that uses pulleys and a belt to change gear ratios smoothly and infinitely, rather than relying on fixed gears and friction bands like a traditional automatic.
This design allows the engine to operate at its most efficient RPM and provides a smoother acceleration without the “shift shock” of a traditional transmission. Manufacturers like Nissan, Honda, Subaru, Toyota, Chevrolet and Chrysler use a CVT transmission, mainly on smaller, compact cars or sport utility vehicles.
Why does this distinction matter? Because CVT transmissions can experience overheating, fluid breakdown, and premature wear of the pulley and belt system, often leading to symptoms
like hesitation, jerking, unusual noises or a burning smell. These issues can result in transmission failure. And, poor fluid maintenance is the No. 1 reason for failures. Rough driving habits, such as rapid acceleration or towing heavy loads, are also major contributors.
Furthermore, the vehicle manufacturers are inconsistent with their recommended service intervals. Some will even tell you their transmission fluid lasts a “lifetime.” This couldn’t be further from the truth. Transmission fluid, just like engine oil, breaks down over time. This leads to contamination from internal wear and can cause the internal CVT belt to fail.
Regular changes of your CVT transmission oil can help you prolong the life of your transmission and give your vehicle a longer life expectancy.
At JAX Auto & Tire, we recommend changing the CVT transmission fluid every 30,000 miles. This service typically ranges from $150 to $300 and is well worth it – because the alternative is a transmission replacement that costs well into the thousands of dollars. JAX Auto & Tire is located at 5220 S. Ill. Rt. 31 in Crystal Lake. To make an appointment, call (815) 526-3552. ❚
A Different Way to Recover from Illness
By Chris Linden, executive editor
Post-acute rehab is a critical step in recovery from an injury or illness, but the experiences can vary widely from big rehab hospitals to skilled nursing facilities.
Ignite Medical Resorts takes a different approach in matching short-term, rapid rehabilitation with “uncompromising luxury.”
In many ways, Ignite’s McHenry location feels more like a hotel than a medical facility. The spacious lobby comes with ample natural light, plush couches, fireplaces, even a “living wall” that’s covered in plants. A Starbucks coffee stand serves light bites.
“It’s bright, sunny, lots of windows and high ceilings. We wanted it to feel very natural, home-like and comfortable,” says Mat Thengil, chief therapy officer and partner. “When you’re in a rehab hospital, it feels sterile, with white walls everywhere. This is the opposite.”
Out of the facility’s 84 beds, 60 are private suites with a bathroom, an electric fireplace, a dresser, a minifridge and a TV. The square-shaped building comes with a landscaped courtyard and small lounges in each wing. The spacious dining room has a wide menu.
“I think dining is so underappreciated when it comes to health care,” says Thengil, an occupational therapist who’s spent 22 years in his field. “People get sick, they go to the hospital and then in post-acute rehab they assume they’ll just eat whatever they’re given. We wanted to take that up a couple of notches.”
It may sound like fun and games, but the reality is that physical recovery is just as important as emotional and social wellness, says Thengil.
“If you were in the patient’s shoes, would you want to share a room with another patient or would you want your own?” he says.
“Would you like the luxury of going to Starbucks in the morning and getting a cappuccino? We have that here. Do you want your therapy to be seven days a week? We do that here.”
The therapy gym is a bright, sunny spot that’s filled with tools to
help someone recover from orthopedic injuries, strokes, heart attacks, lung diseases and other acute illnesses. They often come with multiple health concerns and a range of barriers to overcome.
Inside the therapy gym, they find a range of high-tech tools, some of them built with the same technology that helps pro athletes recover. The OmniVR uses an Xbox Kinect to work different muscle groups. The Synchrony uses electrodes to measure one’s swallowing ability, while the Biodex helps to improve balance. The Neuro Rehab VR is an immersive virtual reality where patients can work on motion, walking, standing, bending and more in a simulated environment.
And, there’s the game-changing Andago, which uses robotic controls and harnesses to help a person walk again.
“One of our biggest feats came when we had a stroke victim with left-sided weakness who was unable to walk,” says Karolina Triana, director of rehabilitation in McHenry. “After a year of using this on an inpatient and outpatient basis we got her walking. It was incredible.”
Inside the life skills area, patients practice a variety of everyday tasks, from doing laundry and cooking dinner to walking through a front door. The team of 14 therapists will also conduct community and home assessments, to ensure a patient can safely return to their lives.
The technology and tools at Ignite’s McHenry location demonstrate the same level of care you’ll find at any of the company’s nearly 30 facilities in the Midwest and Texas. In addition to centers in Lisle, Aurora, Hanover Park and northwest Indiana, Ignite recently opened a new facility in Batavia.
“I think the biggest takeaway is that advanced technology does not have to exist only in rehab hospital settings like Shirley Ryan AbilityLab,” says Thengil. “You can find the same high-quality experience right here at Ignite Medical Resort.”
Ignite Medical Resort in McHenry is located at 550 Ridgeview Dr. To request a tour, call (815) 900-2500. ❚
The Andago uses robotic controls and easy mobility to safely help patients walk again.
The lobby at Ignite Medical Resort’s McHenry facility is bright, cheerful and spacious, so families can gather together in a comfortable setting.
Window Coverings 101: Know the Basics
By Chris Linden, executive editor
Nobody likes a bare window, es-
pecially if you’re looking to filter out sunlight or get a little privacy. There are plenty of options out there, but what’s right for your home? That’s where a little input from an experienced team can make all the difference.
The showroom at ZNL Window Coverings offers a good peek at what’s available. Blinds, shades, shutters and draperies come in many styles and colors, and each is custom-made to fit your windows and your budget.
“We have upwards of 100 blinds and shades on the wall, and we invite people to look and touch, feel and see what’s available,” says Bill Lapins, owner of ZNL.
Window shades are among the most popular choice today, and they come in many forms. Cellular or honeycomb shades trap air between the fabric and help to insulate your home. With
the transitional or “zebra” shade, twist it one way and it completely blocks light; twist it the other way to gently filter sunlight.
These options come with several upgrades, including a cordless option that stays exactly where you want it. One of the most requested add-ons is the motorized shade, which runs by remote control or a smartphone app.
Draperies are making a strong comeback, particularly with options like the luxurious, contemporary look of the ripple fold.
The ZNL team custom-designs its products, offers a lifetime warranty, and manufactures some items on-site.
The team also services and repairs window coverings of all kinds.
If you don’t know what you want, one of three seasoned sales designers will navigate you through the process,
which includes an in-home consultation and a visit to the showroom.
“It’s unique in this area to have people who do custom draperies and window coverings,” says Lapins. “The fact that we manufacture and service products, and the fact that we have a lot of people who’ve done this work for a long time, that truly sets us apart.”
ZNL Window Coverings is located at 2120 Harlem Ave., in Loves Park. Call (815) 654-0870 for an estimate. ❚
Draperies and transitional “zebra” shades are some of the most popular options in window coverings today.
(Graber photo)
A Taste of Winter in this Pumpkin Crumble
If you’re ready to embrace the flavors of fall, look no further than a classic: pumpkin desserts. Instead of the typical pumpkin pie, mix things up this year with this Pumpkin Crumble treat from Cookin’ Savvy. It’s an easy, delicious solution for satisfying that sweet tooth at a family function or just for fun. Once you’ve finished enjoying every last bite, head to Culinary.net for more comforting dessert inspiration.
Pumpkin Crumble
Recipe courtesy of “Cookin’ Savvy” Servings: 8-12
Crumble:
1 can pumpkin
1 can evaporated milk
1 cup brown sugar
2 eggs
1 tablespoon pumpkin spice
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 box cake mix (yellow, white or spice)
3/4 cup chopped pecans
3/4 cup chopped white chocolate chips
1 1/2 cups melted butter
Whipped Cream:
1 cup heavy whipping cream
2 tablespoons sugar
Heat oven to 350 F.
In bowl, mix pumpkin, evaporated milk, brown sugar, eggs, pumpkin spice and cinnamon.
Pour mixture into greased 9-by-11inch baking dish.
In separate bowl, combine cake mix, pecans and white chocolate chips. Sprinkle over pumpkin mixture. Pour butter evenly over mixture. Do not mix. Bake 1 hour.
To make whipped cream: Using hand mixer, whip heavy whipping cream and sugar until thick.
Serve crumble with whipped cream, as desired. ❚
(Source: Family Features)
(Family Features photo)
Woodstock Farmers Market
Ongoing, select Sat. 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Producersonly market features seasonal produce from local vendors in an indoor setting. All Seasons Orchard, 14510 Ill. Rt. 176, Woodstock, (815) 338-5315, woodstockfarmersmarket.org.
Farmers Market+ at The Dole
Geneva Christmas Walk & House Tour
Your Fun Entertainment & Events
Dec. 5, 6 p.m. Candy Cane Parade with Santa Claus and Santa Lucia; live nativity, special sales downtown. Ticketed home tour Fri.-Sat. Location: Downtown Geneva. Tickets/Info: Geneva Chamber of Commerce, 8 S. 3rd St., Geneva, (630) 232-6060, genevachamber.com.
Ongoing, select Sun. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Activities, local produce, artistic creations. The Dole, 401 Country Club Road, Crystal Lake, (815) 3074787, farmersmarketatthedole.org.
Irving Berlin’s ‘White Christmas’ Through Jan. 11, times vary. The Christmas classic was made famous on film by Danny Kaye and Bing Crosby. Paramount Theatre, 23 E. Galena Blvd., Aurora, (630) 896-6666, paramountaurora.com.
Festival of Lights Parade
Nov. 28, 7 p.m. Parade moves through downtown; Santa lights the tree. Downtown Crystal Lake, (815) 479-0835, downtowncl.org.
Fox Valley Concert Band
Dec. 3, 3 p.m. The band returns with its Home for the Holidays show. Norris Cultural Arts Center, 1040 Dunham Road, St. Charles, (630) 584-7200, norrisculturalarts.com
Kane County Flea Market
Dec. 6-7, Sat. noon-5 p.m., Sun. 7 a.m.-4 p.m. Hundreds of merchants bring their goods. Kane County Fairgrounds, 525 S. Randall Road, St. Charles, kanecountyfleamarket.com.
Barrington Holiday Festival/Tree Lighting
Dec. 6, 3-6:30 p.m. Family activities, photos with Santa; BHS Madrigals perform. Cook and Station streets, downtown Barrington, (847) 304-3400, barrington-il.gov.
Miracle on Main Street
Dec. 6, 3-6:30 p.m. Santa arrives for tree lighting; food, music and hot cocoa. Downtown Lake Zurich, (847) 438-5141, lakezurich.org.
Holiday Tea
Dec. 7, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Adults-only tea served with finger sandwiches and wine. Barrington’s White House, 145 W. Main St., Barrington, (224) 512-4066, barringtonswhitehouse.com.
Huntley Farmers Market
Dec. 13, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Local vendors bring a wide variety of foods. American Legion, 11712 Coral St., Huntley, (815) 893-6280, huntley.il.us.
ESO Holiday Spectacular
Dec. 13-14, Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sat.-Sun. 2:30 p.m. Show includes carols, modern hits, visit from Santa. Elgin Symphony Orchestra, Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way, Elgin, (847) 888-4000, elginsymphony.org.
Memory Makers Storytelling
Dec. 17, 9:30 a.m.-noon. Practice the art of storytelling and swap some tales. Woodstock Public Library, 414 W. Judd St., Woodstock, (815) 338-0542, woodstockpubliclibrary.org.
Welcome Winter Celebration
Dec. 21, noon-3 p.m. Learn how American Indians celebrated the winter solstice. Lost Valley Visitor Center, Glacial Park, 6310 Harts Road, Ringwood, mccdistrict.org.
American English: The Beatles in Bloom
Dec. 31, 7 p.m. Renowned Beatles tribute band explores four “seasons” of emotion. Raue Center for the Arts, 26 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake, (815) 356-9212, rauecenter.org. ❚
