Daytripping
Ibelieve we get the best of both worlds in this part of Chicagoland. Drive a few minutes one way and you’re living the urban life. A few minutes in the opposite direction, and you’re lost in the corn.
With that kind of location, it’s easy to find adventure any time you want it, especially in the middle of autumn’s glory.
It’s hard not to be mystified by the glowing golds, tans, reds and oranges that settle over the landscape. And it’s even harder to avoid the call of the land, as we flock to the many apple orchards, pumpkin patches and family farms nearby.
Those apple cinnamon doughnuts and piping hot cider are part of our family’s fall bucket list. And, yes, we do make a list of our favorite activities, diligently checking them all off. We’ve barely touched October and already we’ve downed our first gallon of cider. High school football games, farmers markets and backyard bonfires are right around the corner.
We certainly make the most of autumn’s bounty, but the reality is that any time of year is great for a family outing. It seems like anywhere you look there’s something new to discover. Maybe I’m just spoiled. My job is to find adventures and tell you about them. But that adventurous spirit lives deep within. I’d find it one way or another.
It’s rubbing off nicely on the kids, too. They’re the first ones out the door whenever there’s talk of hikes, bike rides and anyplace with a playground. They absolutely light up when we suggest their favorite activities, whether it’s at a new spot or somewhere familiar.
Adventure is what you make of it, and we find plenty of those close to home. You don’t have to go to the big city, but what’s to stop you? That’s the best thing about where we live. Everywhere you look, new discoveries await. And what better time to find one than right now?
Chris Linden Executive Editor
Take in Autumn’s Abundance at Primrose Farm
By Peggy Werner
Fall is the prime season to enjoy life at Primrose Farm, a St. Charles Park District facility.
A working farm since 1840, Primrose is now a 100-acre “hands-on” farm where families milk dairy cows, see chickens lay eggs, feed goats, and see how people once depended on horsepower from a draft horse.
“A lot of people visiting are in awe of the cows and horses, some having never seen farm animals before,” says Alison Jones, manager of farm programs and interpretive services. “They enjoy petting the animals and hearing the sounds they make.”
Autumn Hay Rides are one of the farm’s most popular fall activities. They run Friday and Saturday evenings from Oct. 3-25. The 30-minute wagon ride around the farm is followed with s’mores at the fire pit. Groups up to 15 can book their own wagon and fire pit.
Join in the Pumpkin Patch Creations from 3-4:30 p.m. on Oct. 4, 11 and 18. Hop onboard the wagon for a ride to the pumpkin patch, choose a squash and bring it to the decorating table, where supplies are provided.
The Pumpkin Carving Party runs 2:30-4 p.m. on Oct. 25. Bring a pumpkin or purchase one at the farm, and when you’re done carving, you can feed the pulp to the farm animals.
Primrose Farm’s new education center and its full kitchen ensure the fun continues into the winter months. There are plans underway for baking classes, Christmas crafts, winter camps, winter play groups and other seasonal events. With the St. Charles Public Library, Primrose Farm also hosts preschool storytelling at 10 a.m. on Oct. 16 and Nov. 20.
“We host these fall activities to get more people out to the farm, hang out with their friends and enjoy the season,” Jones says. “We have beautiful sunsets, lots of animals, and it’s nice to hang around the fire pits and hear all kinds of wildlife and just take in the beautiful scenery.”
To purchase event tickets, visit primrosefarm.org or call (630) 5134370. Primrose Farm is located at 5N726 Crane Road, in St. Charles. ❚
The fre pits at Primrose Farm in St. Charles sizzle every Friday and Saturday in October.
(Lynn Thomas/St. Charles Park District photo)
Outdoor Lighting Requires a Careful Eye
By Chris Linden, executive editor
There’s both an art and a science to illuminating your home at night.
Achieving the right balance takes a careful eye and some solid experience, says Daniel Fernandez, owner of Premier Lighting of Chicagoland.
“You can buy landscape lights very cheaply on Amazon,” he says. “But knowing how to install them properly and knowing where to install them so you get the best experience is really what we do for customers.”
Fernandez and his crew specialize in low-voltage lighting, a special kind of wiring for pathway lights, uplights and even backyard sound systems. This isn’t so much about security, although it can help. It’s really about illuminating your home and yard. That’s where the art comes in.
For starters, Fernandez likes to find items of particular interest, like a fountain, a tree, or a stone pathway.
These become focal points that attract your attention.
It’s also important to consider functional lighting, perhaps along walkways or patios, or particular sections of your backyard.
A “moonlight fixture” can shine down from a tree and cover a large radius with soft lighting. There are also “area fixtures” that produce a similar effect from the ground.
“Just a little bit of light will make a feature stand out,” Fernandez says. “That’s right where your eye goes. So, if you’re in a completely dark area and there’s a little light somewhere, that’s where your eye is drawn to first.”
There’s also a science to landscape lighting, which is where the expert touch really comes into play. These systems run on low-voltage wiring that runs 6 inches underground. If it’s not installed properly – or with the right
equipment – the wiring can get snipped or components can get ruined. Fernandez and his team offer routine maintenance and end-to-end warranties.
“We’re still maintaining systems this company installed in 1998,” he says. “People think they’ll buy a system and have landscape lighting forever. But, they do need some TLC.”
For a free estimate, call Premier Lighting at (847) 551-1500 or go to premierlightingchicagoland.com. ❚
Professional-grade landscape lighting makes a home and its landscaping stand out at night.
Prayer Matters
Throughout the gospels, there are reports of Jesus regularly praying alone, with other people, for other people, and always with sincere effort. Perhaps no prayer is more poignant than the one prayed in the garden of Gethsemane, when Jesus asks God to rescue him from the horrible ordeal he’s about to endure. Three times he requests an easier path, but he also accepts God’s will when he prays: “Yet not as I will, but as You will.”
(Matthew 26:39 - NIV) By studying the way Jesus prayed, we can learn.
Luke 11:1 reads, “One day Jesus was praying in a certain place. When he finished, one of his disciples said to him, ‘Lord, teach us to pray, just as John taught his disciples.’”
Jesus set forth a beautiful example for prayer that Christians turned into a memorized ritual called “The Lord’s Prayer.” While it can be good to remember these words together, ritual must never replace the personal prayers that come from each of our hearts.
Jesus prayed for the lost but he also prayed for the people of God’s family:
“I [Jesus] pray for them. I am not praying for the world, but for those you have given Me, for they are Yours.”
(John 17:19).
Sometimes Jesus prayed with other people. Luke 9:2: “[Jesus] took Peter, John and James with Him and went up onto a mountain to pray.”
Jesus knew Psalm 46:10: “Be still, and know that I am God.” He regularly sought out peaceful places and made time for prayer. In Luke 5:16 we read: “Jesus often withdrew to lonely places and prayed.”
Prayer was a habit for Jesus, integrated into all parts of his life. The prayers of Jesus were never stiff, rote or memorized; they revealed intimacy with God and knowledge of His nature, gleaned through careful study of scripture. Clearly, God yearns for us to talk with him, just as Jesus did. ❚
– Janine Pumilia
Your Fall Adventure Starts in DeKalb County
By Pat Szpekowski
The fall season comes alive in DeKalb County, from adventures like apple orchard fun to the action-packed fields of Northern Illinois University.
“We offer a wide array of things to do all year, but fall is our busiest time,” says Katherine McLaughlin, marketing director for the DeKalb County Convention & Visitors Bureau.
Autumn offers countless ways to celebrate. Feel the fall flavors swirl around you on a visit to Jonamac Orchard, a family-owned adventure farm in Malta. Take advantage of free admission during the week and get lost in a corn maze. The farm also features a 12-acre pumpkin patch, acres of U-pick
Haunt” comes alive. Just see if you can survive this haunted corn maze.
Honey Hill Orchard, in Waterman, is a popular spot with U-pick berries and apples, fresh apple cider, caramel apples and freshly baked pies. Visit the converted 1880s Apple Barn and find a store that sells jams, apple butter and assorted gifts.
There’s plenty more action in the county’s namesake city.
“DeKalb is synonymous with Northern Illinois University,” notes McLaughlin. “With NIU’s Huskies on the move, football comes alive in the fall.” Their last home game is Nov. 28.
For more autumn tastes, head to Sycamore for a home-grown, fun-filled
includes more than 1,000 squash. The festival also brings together 30 DeKalb County nonprofit organizations. It all takes place Oct. 22-26.
DeKalb County is full of autumn joys, from scenic orchards to Division I college football.
(DeKalb County CVB photo)
The Certified Difference in Used Cars
By Chris Linden, executive editor
We all know the stereotype of the used car salesman, but that’s not how it goes when you buy a certified pre-owned vehicle from a reputable dealer, says Kevin Keefe, president of Brilliance Honda in Crystal Lake and Brilliance Subaru in Elgin.
“In our opinion, there’s a big difference between selling a car and helping someone to buy a car,” says president and owner Kevin Keefe. “We like to help people buy cars. Yes, there is a sales environment, but if we can show the value of our product and our people, then customers will want to transact.”
Both dealerships offer a strong selection of pre-owned vehicles. Before they reach the lot, each car goes through a rigorous inspection to ensure customers get a quality, like-new product.
Hondas must meet strict age and mileage requirements before they pass a 182-point inspection – which is why
Honda can offer a seven-year, 10,000-mile powertrain warranty or a four-year, 48,000mile limited warranty on its used models.
Subaru guarantees its vehicles are less than five years old and under 80,000 miles before undergoing a 165-point inspection. The interior must appear like-new, while all previous repairs are verified as meeting factory standards.
Brilliance dealers, in turn, offer a no-hassle sales experience where transparency, teamwork and integrity take top priority.
“These brands are world-class. They hold their values almost better than anyone in the industry,” says Keefe. “People are surprised, when purchasing a used Honda or a used Subaru, that it feels sometimes a little
more expensive, but they soon find out it’s worth it and this vehicle is going to last a long time.”
Brilliance Honda is located at 680 W. Terra Cotta Road (Ill. Rt. 176) in Crystal Lake. To schedule a Honda service appointment, call (815) 459-6400. Brilliance Subaru is located at 1500 N. Randall Road in Elgin. To schedule a Subaru service appointment, call (224) 281-4300. ❚
Used cars at Brilliance Subaru and Brilliance Honda undergo rigorous inspections before they reach the lot.
Healthy Habits Make for a Healthy Spine
By Peggy Werner
The vast majority of us will suffer from back pain at some point in our lives, whether it’s a muscle strain or a serious, chronic condition that requires surgery.
There are many sources for back pain, including disc problems, injuries, arthritis, genetics, lifestyle and medical conditions, says Dr. Lauren Matteini, an orthopedic spine surgeon at Fox Valley Orthopedics who specializes in minimally invasive techniques.
Anyone who lives long enough can’t escape arthritis.
“No one wants to hear this, but as we age, we all change on the inside as well as the outside. Arthritis begins in your early 40s. It’s part of the aging process, and although it can’t be cured it can be manageable. Every person with arthritis doesn’t have back pain, but everyone will have arthritis in their spine,” she says.
The best medicine is to keep moving. You can never start too early, and it’s never too late to start taking care of yourself.
“The more you move, the better you feel,” Matteini says. “I always tell my people to do something good for your back every day, whether it’s taking
an exercise class, walking or stretching. Find something you like and do it.”
A healthy routine for your back might include daily exercise, stretching, weight control, healthy dieting and building core strength. For those with more serious back issues, it’s important to be seen and treated by a physician to keep pain from impeding your daily life.
“People will notice you walking differently, being unhappy, and you won’t be able to do the things you want to do,” says Matteini. “All of these things take a toll on a person. Too many people are afraid of surgery and will choose to put up with the pain rather than finding out what’s wrong and doing something about it.”
Back pain doesn’t necessarily mean having to go under the surgeon’s knife. Most issues can be addressed with physical therapy and the right lifestyle changes. However, many structural problems can be fixed with surgery, Matteini says. If surgery is needed, do your research to pick the best surgeon for your condition.
“It’s important to choose a surgeon you are comfortable with, who has your best interests at heart, and with whom you can develop a good relationship, so you get the care you need when you need it,” says Matteini.
Fox Valley Orthopedics has clinics in Barrington, Elgin, Algonquin, Geneva and Yorkville. For information or to schedule an appointment, call (855) 386-7846 or visit fvortho.com. ❚
Dr. Lauren Matteini
at the orchard with his brother, Bret, and their parents, Raoul and Jodie, the orchard’s original owners. “It gives people a reason to keep coming back. Many people say visiting the orchard has become a family tradition.”
Valley Orchard is a 35-acre, family-owned business with about 5,000 trees that produce more than 30 apple varieties. During the peak apple season, from mid-September through October, visitors can pick their own apples or purchase some at the orchard store, where they’ll also find a bakery, a play area for children, pumpkins, mums and floral gardens.
The orchard opens in late August each year with pickings of Sweet Maia and Zestar apples, followed by Gala, Honeycrisp and McIntosh, and pick-yourown red raspberries. Other favorites that come along are Early Fuji, Senshu, Snow Sweet, Empire, Summerset, Cortland, Empire, Jonalicious, Jonathon, Red Delicious, Sweet Zinger, Crimson Crisp, Crimson Topaz, Crunch-a-Bunch, Ida Red, Jonagold and Yellow Delicious.
At various times in the year, you can even pick fresh rhubarb, fall raspberries, blueberries, tart cherries and blackberries on the farm.
Recent introductions to the orchard include Summerset, a crisp and sweet eating apple made from Honeycrisp and Fuji varieties. Ludacrisp, available in October, is a firm, crunchy apple. Rosalee is a firm, sweet and tart apple that comes available mid-season and has a good shelf life. Sweet Zinger comes along at the end of September and is a yellow sweet apple that’s good for eating and baking.
It takes two years to produce fruit from newly planted apple trees, Bergersen says. Last year, the orchard planted
peach trees, which means this sweet fruit will appear in the farm store within the next couple of seasons.
Valley Orchard makes its own, 100% pure apple cider with no additives. Apple Cider Slushies are also available. The bakery sells apple cider doughnuts, apple pie, apple-cinnamon bread, caramel apples and fudge, as well as a variety of jams and jellies, salsas, honey, squash, pumpkins, gourds and more. Fall decorations, linens, candles and other unique seasonal items for the home are also for sale.
The orchard is open Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. It closes for the season in mid-November.
For more information or to schedule a group tour, go to thevalleyorchard.com and the orchard’s Facebook or Instagram pages, or call (815) 332-9696.
One of this region’s largest U-pick apple harvests is at All Seasons Orchard, 14510 Illinois Route 176 in Woodstock. It boasts more than 16,000 apple trees in two orchards.
The family-operated apple orchard got its start more than 30 years ago; today, its grounds encompass a pumpkin patch and more than 30 family-friendly activities, including a corn maze, a petting zoo, a Sesame Street-themed sunflower trail, pony rides, a corn cob beach, an apple cannon, a ropes course, bee lines, giant swings, a tube slide, duck races and an apple train.
Wagon rides take you to one or both orchards, depending on what varieties are available. Stop by the Apple Orchard Farm Market to find pre-picked apples in one-half and onepeck quantities, and while you’re at it, be sure to stock up on cider, baked goods, specialty food items, apparel, home decor, gifts, souvenirs and more. New this year is a corn dog and grilled cheese wagon near the entrance to the Barnyard. There’s a cider stop, lemonade and Churro wagon right in the middle of the Barnyard.
All Seasons Orchard is open Monday, Thursday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. It’s open on weekends and Columbus Day from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. ❚
All Seasons Orchard, in Woodstock, has two orchards, a farm store and plenty of activities for families to enjoy.
Valley Orchard, in Cherry Valley, grows some 30 varieties of apples, many of them unique.
(K-Adams Foto/Naturally McHenry County photo)
Preventive Steps Keep Garages Humming
By Peggy Werner
The lifespan of a garage door depends on how often you use it and how well you take care of it.
“Most people open and close the garage door 15 to 20 times a week, but others use it that much in a day,” says Allen Holley, salesperson with A.S.A.P. Garage Door Repair in Huntley.
The most common problem with garage doors is broken springs, which are designed to operate from 10,000 to 15,000 times. So, with average use, springs can last about 10 to 15 years.
Springs usually break when the door is closed or just inches off the floor, because that’s when the springs are wound tightest, Holley says.
Fixing garage door springs is not a job for the do-it-yourselfer.
“It’s a very dangerous job,” he says. “I’ve seen people go to the hospital to get stitches in their face, or deal with broken fingers and cut hands.”
Although homeowners can maintain some things themselves, it’s a good idea to have your garage door serviced once a year to make sure it’s adequately lubricated, aligned and adjusted. A technician will also test the safety system and check moving parts for wear and tear, with special attention to the springs, cables, rollers, hinges and bearings.
“We will bring to your attention anything that needs to be done to prevent having to make an emergency call,” Holley says.
Homeowners can lubricate moving parts like hinges, rollers, springs and bearings at least once a year with garage door lubricant, he adds.
Other problems can be detected early, if you’re paying attention. If rollers are deteriorating, they’ll cause a
screeching noise. You can spot cracked hinges and rollers that are off track.
A.S.A.P. Garage Door Repair sells and services in McHenry, Kane, Lake and Cook counties.
A.S.A.P. Garage Door Repair is located at 11351 Allison Ct., in Huntley. For service or an estimate, call (847) 695-8888. ❚
A professional checkup goes a long way toward keeping your garage door in good shape.
Pumpkin Weekends Call You to the Farm
By Peggy Werner
Blackberry Farm welcomes fall each year with special events and its traditional Pumpkin Weekends. This year, kids and their families can meet superheroes, trick-or-treat, and attend haunted events.
The Aurora farm is run by the Fox Valley Park District and is a living history museum where visitors learn about Aurora’s history and pioneer life. Pumpkin Weekends put a fresh spin on the experience.
“People come away knowing so much more about Aurora’s diversity and how things have changed from the city’s beginning and its evolution through the decades,” says Abby Oldenburg, facility manager. “For some, it brings back memories of past generations.”
Pumpkin Weekends are a popular annual event at Blackberry Farm. The special fun runs every Saturday and Sunday in October, including
Columbus Day. General admission includes unlimited train, carousel, pony and hay wagon rides, as well as other seasonal activities for children and adults. Each day presents special activities, including a bounce house, bubble making, pumpkin carving, face painting, trickor-treating, balloon artists and the world’s tallest scarecrow.
On Oct. 18, children can dress up in Halloween costumes and visit the many trick-or-treat stations located throughout the park, starting at 11 a.m.
Come back the following day and take a scenic ride around Lake Gregory before participating in family activities and making s’mores around a campfire at the “Halloween Hayride.”
Dress for a costume judging contest, grab your flashlights and board
the “Haunted Train Ride” at 6:30 p.m. on Friday, Oct. 24. Also, try your hand at a spooky craft, ride the hay wagon and carousel, and enjoy some s’mores around a bonfire. (Recommended for ages 4-10.)
Purchase tickets in advance online at foxvalleyparkdistrict.org.
Blackberry Farm is located at 100 S. Barnes Road, in Aurora. Call the farm at (630) 892-1550. ❚
The giant corn sandbox is one of many beloved fall attractions at Blackberry Farm in Aurora.
(Fox Valley Park District photo)
Imaginative Play Takes Centerstage at Marvin’s
By Peggy Werner
There’s a new way for children and their families to learn and grow together, and it starts at a place where fun and play go hand-in-hand.
The mother-daughter duo behind Marvin’s Toy Store, in downtown Crystal Lake, recently opened an event and activity space where children can learn and explore.
“Children can explore the toys we sell, have some fun and use their imaginations. It also allows adults to see the quality of our products and get to know us,” says Lori McConville, who owns the store with her daughter Kate. “We want families to come in and learn. It’s natural for kids to want to touch and try things out.”
These scheduled events are not open play time; they’re a chance to experience something new. Families can meet special characters, enjoy arts and crafts, play games and more. Some
activities last all day and others last a short time. The one constant is Tuesday’s “Train Day,” when kids of all ages can build and play with Brio train sets, a quality wooden railroad toy.
“Play has a big role in the growth and development of children,” says McConvillle. “Put something good in a child’s hands and you will see how they solve problems, express themselves, see the world and think. We’re all about what’s going to connect with children.”
The McConvilles use a special set of criteria to when choosing what to display at Marvin’s Toy Store. In particular, they look at quality build, inspiring play and friendliness to people and the Earth. Everyone on staff is trained to help pair a child with the sorts of toys that speak to them.
“The toy a child most enjoys may not be the best seller, but it’s the right choice for that child,” says McConville. “When a child walks out of our store and feels they have something special, it’s good for everyone.”
Marvin’s Toy Store is located at 64A N. Williams St. in downtown Crystal Lake. Find out about upcoming events at marvinstoystore.com. ❚
The new play area at Marvin’s Toy Store, in Crystal Lake, encourages children to explore and fnd a new favorite toy.
KIM ADAMS
Keller Williams Success Realty
LEAH JACKSON
Amerifnancial Home Mortgage, Inc.
NMLS #2142852
Remodeling Workshops
How to Plan and Execute a SUCCESSFUL Home Renovation
Ready to fnally take the stress out of remodeling? Join us for our FINAL Home Design Workshop of the year. Discover how to plan smarter, save money, and sidestep renovation headaches with help from experienced designers and industry leaders. Plus, hear insights from special guest experts in real estate and mortgage lending.
This is your last chance to grab a friend and reserve your seats for both events. Scan the QR code to RSVP now and start planning the home you've always envisioned!
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 15 2026 Home Design Trends 10:00am - 11:30am
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 13 Remodeling Workshop 10:00am - 12:00pm
The Inside Scoop on Window Treatments
By Chris Linden, executive editor
Joshua Kierzyk has seen windows of all shapes and sizes, and he’s found a solution for each. Arch windows, circles, octagons, even triangles – each one will accommodate a window treatment. You just need the right solution.
As an installer and sales associate for Sunburst Shutters of Chicago, one of his specialties is the Polywood shutter, a frame with slats that sits in your window frame. It’s one of the fastestgrowing types of window treatments, in part because of its ability to match natural light and privacy.
Sunburst Shutters also sells custom blinds, shades and draperies, but after 35 years in business its most enduring product is the plantation-style shutter, in part because it’s well adapted for unusual shapes or locations.
“We have seen just about everything, even people calling about the windows in their entryway,” he says.
“That’s one of the smallest windows in the house, but a lot of times you can see down the hallway to the back of the house. People want privacy.”
Whatever style of window treatment you’re seeking, the process starts with a free consultation. This is a chance to learn about your options, see some samples and talk ideas. A salesperson will take measurements and offer a quote based on the products you like. When it’s time for installation, Sunburst Shutters has its own installers, repair crew and sales team.
Window treatments come in all shapes and sizes. What’s best for your home will depend on several factors.
breaks for energy-efficiency – so it’s cost-competitive against similar products. Still, it’s about the right fit.
Polywood shutters come with a lifetime warranty for a product that’s made in Wisconsin and custom-crafted in Huntley. It takes about six to eight weeks to have your order ready, and installation typically happens in just one day. The product also comes with tax
“We like to say that, when you go with shutters, it’s an investment,” says Kierzyk. “There’s more of an upfront cost, but you should have your window treatment for as long as you live in your house, without any worries.”
For a free consultation, call Sunburst Shutters at (847) 697-4000 or visit sunburstshutterschicago.com. ❚
The Right Fit Makes All the Difference
By Steven Bonifazi, assistant editor
It’s not always easy to find the perfect-fitting shoe. Sizes vary across brands, materials break in differently, and what feels fine at first can turn into a blister by day’s end.
So, how do you make sure your foot gets the right support? It starts with a little insight from someone who knows about shoes.
McKenna Montgomery, store manager at Heisler’s Bootery in Crystal Lake, starts with some pointed questions. She’ll ask about foot pain and activities that make it worse. Then, she’ll use some old-school and hightech tools to measure feet for length, width and shape.
After more than 100 years in business, Heisler’s Bootery still carries major and niche shoe brands. These shoes are built from quality materials and reflect a variety of styles and foot types. If a shoe needs a little adjusting, they
still have the tools and knowhow to soften stiff spots, add padding or adjust lacing patterns.
“When someone’s never had a good pair of shoes and they finally get one, it’s a game-changer,” says co-owner Jody Heisler. “I’ve seen it in their faces.”
As important as it is to find the right size and material, it’s also important to consider your socks – perhaps the most underappreciated factor. Socks made from breathable, blended materials or socks that are made for compression will keep feet fresher than 100% cotton, says Montgomery.
thinking that’s only for a certain kind of customer. Here, too, a little education goes a long way.
The right fit also means letting go of old assumptions. Many shoppers find they’ve worn the wrong size for years, so the change can feel uncomfortable at first. They also shy away from shoes labeled “orthopedic,”
“There’s a negative connotation to orthopedic shoes, but it really just means corrective support that benefits your whole body,” Montgomery says. “Anybody and everybody can benefit from it.”
Heisler’s Bootery is located at 50 N. Williams St., in Crystal Lake. ❚
McKenna Montgomery, of Heisler’s Bootery in Crystal Lake, asks lots of questions to fnd the right shoe.
Summer Meets Fall in this Zucchini Bake
WhenOctober arrives, we finally get to dust off those fall recipes and indulge in some of our favorite comfort foods.
This Zucchini Chicken Bake is a perfect blend of summer veggies and warm, fall flavor, ideal for those hot days that turn into chilly evenings. Visit Culinary.net to find more family recipe inspiration.
Zucchini Chicken Bake
Recipe courtesy of “Cookin’ Savvy” Servings: 4-6
2 medium zucchinis
2-3 tomatoes
2 chicken breasts
1 tablespoon minced onion
2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
2 teaspoons smoked paprika avocado oil
1-1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
oven
Cut zucchinis, tomatoes and chicken into bite-sized pieces. Place in 9-by-13-inch baking dish.
Sprinkle mixture with minced onion,
Italian seasoning and paprika then drizzle with avocado oil. Mix well with spoon.
Cover mixture with cheeses.
Cover with foil and bake 40 minutes. (Source: Family Features)
Heat
to 375 F.
Woodstock Farmers Market
Ongoing, Sat. 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Producers-only market. Moves indoors in November. Historic Woodstock Square, Woodstock, (815) 3385315, woodstockfarmersmarket.org.
Farmers Market+ at Te Dole
Trough Oct. 26, Sun. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Activities, local produce, artistic creations. Moves indoors in November. Te Dole, 401 Country Club Road, Crystal Lake, (815) 3074787, farmersmarketatthedole.org.
St. Charles Scarecrow Weekend
Oct. 10-12, Fri. noon-6 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Sun. to 5 p.m. Live entertainment and a craf show. Various locations, downtown St. Charles, (630) 443-3967, scarecrowfest.com.
Tird Tursdays Art Night Out
Oct. 16, 6-8 p.m. Artists Pat Brutchin and Sharron Boxenbaum are featured. Barrington’s White House, 145 W. Main St., Barrington, (224) 512-4066, barringtonswhitehouse.com.
Cast Iron Baking (Wood Fire Special)
Oct. 19, noon-4 p.m. Learn how to bake with cast iron over a fre. Prairieview Education Center, 2112 Behan Road, Crystal Lake, (815) 338-6223, mccdistrict.org.
Deep Sky Exploration
Entertainment & Events
Oct. 21, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Search the skies with Fox Valley Astronomical Society. Creek Bend Nature Center, 37W700 Dean St., St. Charles, (630) 444-3190, kaneforest.com.
Te Cinematic Legacy of David Lynch
Oct. 23, 5 p.m. Film historian Raymond Benson explores the life and works of the director behind “Twin Peaks.” Barrington’s White House, 145 W. Main St., Barrington, (224) 512-4066, barringtonswhitehouse.com.
Lucy’s Comedy
Oct. 24, 8:30 p.m. Features Jim Flannigan and Hari Rao in an intimate setting. Raue Center for the Arts, 26 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake, (815) 356-9212, rauecenter.org.
Mysteries of Mosgrove Cemetery
Oct. 25, 5 p.m. Get a taste of pioneer life as you meet the family that’s laid to rest in these woods. Stickney Run, 3216 State Park Road, McHenry, (815) 338-6223, mccdistrict.org.
Martina Mathisen’s ‘Te Lif’
Oct. 29, 1 p.m. Hit refresh and lighten your spirit. Norris Cultural Arts Center at Baker Community Center, 101 S. 2nd St., St. Charles, (630) 584-7200, norrisculturalarts.com.
Kane County Flea Market
Nov. 1-2, Sat. noon-5 p.m., Sun. 7 a.m.-4 p.m. Kane County Fairgrounds, 525 S. Randall Road, St. Charles, kanecountyfeamarket.com.
A Day that Will Live in Infamy
Nov. 6, 7 p.m. Look at personal stories from the attack on Pearl Harbor. Ela Area Public Library, 275 Mohawk Trail, Lake Zurich, (847) 438-3433, eapl.org.
Huntley Farmers Market
Nov. 8 & Dec. 13, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Local vendors bring a wide variety of foods. American Legion, 11712 Coral St., Huntley, (815) 8936280, huntley.il.us.
ESO: Mozart & Mendelssohn
Nov. 8-9, Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sun. 2:30 p.m. Chad Goodman, conductor; Greg Flint, Horn. Elgin Symphony Orchestra, Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way, Elgin, (847) 8884000, elginsymphony.org.
Irving Berlin’s ‘White Christmas’ Nov. 12-Jan. 11, times vary. Te Christmas classic was made famous on flm by Danny Kaye and Bing Crosby. Paramount Teatre, 23 E. Galena Blvd., Aurora, (630) 896-6666, paramountaurora.com. ❚
