April 2023

Contributing

Date Night

Well, we finally did it. We got out of the house and went on a date.

Of course, around the west and northwest suburbs, the question is never where to go and what to do. We have so many choices right at our fingertips. Rather, for years the question for us was always when

You see, when there are little ones at home, planning a date with your spouse is never an easy feat. Even a simple “we’re going out for a quick coffee” is an ordeal, as you plan around meals, naps and bedtimes, babysitting, the whole thing. You sneak in something wherever you can, regardless of whether you’re exhausted, distracted or covered in drool. You take what you can get.

This time, we came prepared. Grandma came to visit, the spaghetti went on the stove, and we got dressed to the nines for dinner and a show. Nevermind that we didn’t have reservations. How was I supposed to know I’d need to call two weeks in advance? When was the last time we could actually visit a nice restaurant?

We winged it, as usual, and everything worked out perfectly. Dinner in St. Charles kicked things off right, and a show at Aurora’s Paramount Theatre capped it all off. We found out there’s a good reason why their Broadway Series is a consistent award winner.

The best part was feeling something we hadn’t in a long while. The conversation didn’t linger on children and the stresses of the day. We actually talked about real things – and there was no interruption from little voices. We didn’t feel totally exhausted and we didn’t fall asleep on the couch. Instead, we saw that familiar old romantic spark.

This parenting thing isn’t so easy. It takes a lot of work, not just in raising children properly but in maintaining that teamwork between Mom and Dad that keeps everything together. And that takes some serious effort sometimes.

So, what’s a busy parent to do? I’m thinking maybe we should call Grandma and Grandpa a little more often. ❚

Chris Linden Executive Editor

Better Lighting Begins with Smart Design

By Steven Bonifazi, assistant editor

Good lighting adds many benefits to a home’s exterior. Increased security, beautified landscaping and expanded outdoor living spaces are just the beginning. Whether you’re trying to deter unwanted intruders, show off your gardens at night or illuminate your party pad, great outdoor lighting is essential. So is your starting point.

“Always start with the design,” says Patrick Chlada, owner of Trimlight Chicago, a patented permanent exterior lighting system. “You can go out and buy cheap lights at the store and just plug them in, but they’ll only last a few years. You want to know where and what to accent and what will look good, so having a layout design is No. 1.”

Because hundreds of exterior lighting products exist, it’s difficult for the average homeowner to know the difference. Experts in landscaping and home lighting

are therefore a powerful tool to achieving the right design for the right cost.

With Trimlight’s patented, permanent lighting system, designers establish key areas to illuminate, whether that’s the home’s eaves, patios or accents. Their expertise helps to avoid some of the common hazards of those who don’t have experience in the field. Common pitfalls include poor accents, incorrect angles, inappropriate voltage, and lights that point in all directions – what Chlada calls “glare bombs.”

“There are ways to prevent that, based on design techniques,” says Chlada.

For starters, lights need to be in the right location, where they adequately illuminate some focal point, like a sidewalk or a tree, he adds. Knowing how much light is needed can also make a difference. Finally, if there’s a larger focal point, like a large tree, try layering

multiple types of lights to create depth and dimension.

“Defining the house and finding good locations with the right product is key,” says Chlada. “If the angles are wrong and you just buy the generic set, you’re not going to get the look you want.” ❚

For more information or to schedule a free consultation, contact Trimlight Chicago at (630) 890-9387 or visit trimlight-chicago.com.

Easter to Pentecost

The resurrection of Jesus Christ is the cornerstone of the Christian faith, as we just celebrated on Easter Sunday. But the story doesn’t end there. In fact, the close of the Easter season is a full 50 days after Easter. Why?

“After his suffering, he presented himself to them and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God.” Acts 1:3

In the opening of Acts, we read that Jesus has been appearing to various people for 40 days and is now with his 11 apostles. He tells them to stay in Jerusalem, where they will “receive power” from the holy spirit – a promise that’s fulfilled 10 days later, on the day of Pentecost – 50 days after the resurrection. “Pente” means 50.

Before Christ came, Jews celebrated Pentecost, or the Feast of Weeks, to recognize the way God provided for them –Moses brought the law to the people from Mt. Sinai 50 days after the miraculous exodus from Egypt and slavery.

Just as Israel was freed from Egyptian captivity and given God’s law 50 days later, Christ’s followers were freed from mortality by his resurrection and transformed by the holy spirit 50 days later.

Jesus tells the apostles that once they have received power from the holy spirit, they will be witnesses for him not only in Jerusalem, but throughout the entire Earth. In an age without modern transportation or communication, it was quite a promise.

“And when he had spoken these things, while they watched, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight.” Acts 1:9

Although we don’t celebrate Pentecost with the same fanfare given to Easter and Christmas, it’s a landmark day in the history of Christianity and is the “birthday” of the church.

This year, Pentecost will be celebrated on May 28. It’s always seven weeks after Easter Sunday. Easter is determined by calculating the first Sunday after (but never on) the first full moon after the spring equinox – the day when hours of light and darkness are about the same.

Jesus Christ, the light of this world, has entrusted his ministry of reconciliation to us ❚

– Janine Pumilia

The Key to Finding Good Lawn Equipment

By Pat Szpekowski

The mowing season is upon us, and the rush is on. Do you need expert service or new parts to keep your mower working? Or, are you looking for something new and more reliable?

AHW, a John Deere dealership with 18 locations in Illinois and Indiana, has plenty of answers. The store in Hampshire has been serving customers since 1979 with a vast inventory of new equipment for lawn and garden, landscaping, agriculture and construction.

“We’ve re-branded our location and expanded our service and parts departments,” says John Seyller, complete goods regional manager at AHW in Hampshire. “In fact, there is no better time to purchase a new John Deere than now, as availability is back and it’s strong.”

The large Hampshire showroom offers a large variety of mowers. So, how does one select the right equipment? It

starts with knowledgeable salespeople such as Seyller and Tim Kingren, who’s been with the company for over 35 years. Both know how to steer a customer in the right direction.

Each machine has its advantages, so it’s important to know a bit about your property and its needs.

The main advantage of lawn tractors is their ability to handle an array of attachments and functions, from snow removal and towing to fertilizing and more.

“Sub-compact and heavy-duty garden tractors are more versatile as they offer power steering and low-effort ease of use,” says Seyller. “They are perfect for the doit-your-selfers who have larger properties with 3 acres or more, such as small farms and horse and hobby gardening farms.”

Zero-turn mowers offer a more limited experience, but their advantage lies in their speed and accuracy.

“Zero-turn mowers focus mostly on mowing as they are faster, more navigable and very maneuverable,” Kingren says. Not all brands are built the same. Sellyer says customers can expect a highquality performance in John Deere. And, AHW stands behind those products with a team of 13 technicians

“We offer trust and confidence in your purchase at AHW,” says Kingren.

“As our motto says, AHW is Always Here When there is work to be done,” adds Seyller. “So, you can count on us no matter how big or small your job is.” ❚

AHW is located at 14N937 U.S. Hwy. 20 in Hampshire, (847) 683-4440.

Smart Ideas to Start Your Next Remodel

By Jim Taylor, managing editor

There are times when rejuvenation means major change, like completely renovating a room in your home or even constructing a whole new addition. After all, your home is your castle and the best way to enjoy it is to make sure every room is set up in a way that makes you want to stay in it.

Perhaps the best place to begin is with a design and remodeling specialist who can oversee the work.

“The remodeling world can be a crazy place, and a lot of people have no idea where to start,” says Chris Low, a lead project designer with Advance Design Studio in Gilberts. “We try and cross out all the unknowns and put a process in place that’s the same, no matter what size the project is. We want to put the client first, answer their questions, and make sure that everything we do is clean and simple with no hidden surprises.”

If you’re thinking about embarking on a major renovation, talking with a qualified designer can help to suss out your needs and your vision. If you don’t have either at first, don’t worry. A qualified designer knows how to tease out your needs and wants.

One room where Low has seen an uptick in interest is the basement. As an area of the home that’s often underutilized, lower levels are often just a place for storage and laundry. Turning this area into a functional and stylish space adds to your home’s work, play and living spaces, but it also adds resale value.

Low has seen clients transform a vacant basement into fun family gathering spaces like personal gyms and home cinemas. One family converted a corner of their basement into a secret speakeasy.

A finished basement should add function but it should also provide

personality, giving homeowners a place that’s specifically their own for hobbies –think sewing rooms and wood shops – or a place to hang out with a television or some gaming tables.

“With upstairs rooms, like kitchens and bathrooms, people tend to play it safe,” says Low, “but in the basement, they really make the room their own with different colors and flair.” ❚

Advance Design Studio is located at 30 Railroad St., Gilberts, (847) 836-2600.

A Sea of Color at Richardson Farm Tulip Fest

By Chris Linden, executive editor

It’s a welcome sight after a dreary winter and a sure sign that spring has arrived. Tulips present some of spring’s early color, and their incredible palette can’t help but make people smile.

Just ask the three Richardson families that own Richardson Adventure Farm in Spring Grove. For the third year now, their family farm is welcoming visitors to see an incredible collection of tulips that now numbers close to 1 million flowers.

“They’re so colorful,” says George Richardson, who owns the farm with his brother Robert and son Ryan’s families. “People walk around with the biggest smiles on their faces as they enjoy the first bright colors of spring. ”

This year’s Tulip Festival at Richardson Adventure Farm brings out many of the fun, family-friendly activities that have become a hallmark of this tradition.

The centerpiece is the 12-acre layout of tulips, which has grown from 300,000 bulbs in its first year to nearly 1 million bulbs this year. Rows upon rows of colorful blooms spring up in all variety of yellows, reds, purples, oranges and more.

People can’t help but take lots of photos while they tour among the tulips, and the Richardsons have specifically built their flower beds for easy phototaking. “We’ve created picture places, so folks can have a cute spot to take a picture,” says Wendy. “People put their babies in there, families get in there, and they’re taking pictures right amongst the tulips.”

As much fun as it is to walk among the tulips, people also enjoy the 5-acre lakeside festival area,

where there’s an array of food trucks and lawn games.

Compete against friends and family with the giant checkers boards or cornhole game. Then, sit back and relax with a little food, fun and live music. This year’s food trucks are expected to include authentic tacos, pizza, poutine, sandwiches and hamburgers.

The Richardson family’s own food trolley brings out the best of the farm,

Left to Right: Wendy, George, Ryan, Robert and Carol Richardson.

including fresh fudge, popcorn and doughnuts. The beer tent features fresh brews from Ninth Hour Brewing, a Lake Villa-based brewery that’s partly owned by Robert and Carol Richardson’s son-inlaw, who lives on the farm.

“It’s owned by two teachers who do their own brewing,” adds Wendy.

The farm’s gift shop is a must-see. It’s temperature controlled for those especially hot or cold days, and it’s filled with delightful smells of fresh fudge,

just-popped popcorn, doughnuts and more farm-fresh goodies.

Richardson Adventure Farm has been a seasonal destination since 2001, when George Richardson and his brother, Robert, started offering a giant corn maze for autumn visitors. The crowds kept coming and the attractions kept growing as the brothers and their families found new ways to bring people to the farm.

“It was probably five years ago that my brother, Robert, and his wife, Carol, saw an article in a farming magazine about a tulip farm in Oregon,” says George.

The family started researching other farms and tulip events, including popular attractions in Holland, Mich. Serendipity struck in late 2020 when the family’s corn maze designer found a contact in California who had a commercial tulip planter available.

“In spring 2021, it was just phenomenal,” says George. “And of course, everyone was still worried over COVID

concerns. It was just so pretty that spring, and we saw people taking hundreds of thousands of pictures. What a lot of fun.”

Exactly when the fun begins this year is still up to Mother Nature. Don’t go visiting without checking if the farm is open. For updates, check the farm’s social media, newsletter and website, richardsonadventurefarm.com.

Once the season begins, the grounds are open Tuesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6:30 p.m. Weekday admission costs $16 for everyone age 4 and older. Weekend admission is $19 for anyone over age 13 and $16 for ages 4 to 12. Admission includes one free flower per person.

And while you’re there, be sure to say hi to the Richardsons, who tour the grounds most days.

“We get great enjoyment out of watching everyone have fun,” says Wendy. “That’s what this is all about.” ❚

Richardson Adventure Farm is located at 909 English Prairie Road in Spring Grove, (815) 675-9729.

(Tom Funk photos)

Cover photo by Tom Funk

Whispering Hills Nursery Branches Out

By Jim Taylor, managing editor

For years, Illinois Route 31 through Crystal Lake, Cary and Algonquin has been a paradise for green thumbs. Gardening enthusiasts knew a visit to Whispering Hills Garden & Landscape Center or The Barn Nursery would satisfy their needs. While the two businesses were technically competitors, they were also good neighbors who sent customers each other’s way when an item wasn’t in stock.

When The Barn went up for sale last year, this little piece of gardening heaven ran the risk of dying on the vine. Instead, it’s been purchased by Whispering Hills. The newly expanded and renovated Whispering Hills marks its grand opening May 5-7.

“We’re so excited to be able to enhance our customers’ landscape and garden experience with garden decor and seasonal selections,” say co-owners Al and Michelle Anderson.

The grand opening shows off Whispering Hills’ updated retail center and newly expanded inventory of decorative garden items like fountains and statuary from Henri Studio. The garden center also offers an expanded inventory of annuals, perennials, groundcovers, naturalgrown vegetables, herbs, fruit trees, and other savory and sweet edible plants.

Whispering Hills has been a mainstay since 1990 when Al, a former landscaper, decided to stop buying plants from inconsistent suppliers and open a standalone garden center.

The property now includes a 5,100-square-foot retail storefront and 8 acres of land, which allows Whispering Hills to stock more plants, trees and stone for customers. An indoor greenhouse includes many of the unique finds that have made Whispering Hills a staple. The retail outlet carries some of the nation’s

most popular and trusted brand-name house plant lines.

“We have the new line of Proven Winner Leaf Joy Houseplants,” says Michelle. “And we are now a destination location for American Beauties Native Plants.”

Those who visit this spring’s grand re-opening can win raffle prizes, take advantage of special discounts, and enjoy delicious and refreshing items from food trucks parked on the property. ❚

Whispering Hills Garden & Landscape Center is located at 8109 S. Ill. Rt. 31 in Crystal Lake, (847) 658-5610.

What People Want Most in Window Shades

By Peggy Werner

Window treatments are functional as well as fashionable. They keep out heat and cold, they provide privacy and they come in an almost endless selection.

“Window coverings are really a necessity – something everyone has to have,” says Bill Lapins, owner of ZNL Window Coverings, in Loves Park. The firm specializes in window blinds, shades, shutters, custom drapery and retractable awnings. “It’s often one item that is overlooked when decorating a home, but it’s the first thing that should be considered when building a new home or remodeling an existing one.”

Lapins is now sole owner of the locally owned business that was formerly Eddie Z’s. He’s working with new suppliers and an extended service area that includes McHenry County. ZNL is also a dealer for Graber Blinds and Sunair retractable awnings.

At ZNL, transitional shades are one of the newest and most popular ways of dressing up a window. Like a traditional product, they filter sunlight and allow privacy, but they also let in lots of light and create a look of openness.

Functionality is also high in demand these days. Blinds and shades now come with safety cords or cordless options, they open from the top or the bottom, they can be motorized and they can even be controlled from a smartphone app.

Customers often don’t realize that companies like ZNL can also repair blinds, which extends the life of window coverings while also addressing things like broken cords and shades.

“People love to buy from locally owned businesses and customers appreciate us because they know we are the only company in the area that repairs blinds,” says Lapins.

Because there are so many choices, making the right selection can feel nerveracking. A visit to the showroom or calling for a free, in-home consultation are good ways to begin.

“People need to be confident of their choices, and helping them arrive at that level of confidence is something we do very well,” Lapins says. “All of our employees have 10 to more than 20 years of experience, and we guarantee customer satisfaction and happiness.” ❚

ZNL Window Coverings is located at 2120 Harlem Road, Loves Park, (815) 654-0870.

Transitional shades are a popular new choice.

Host an Elevated Gathering at Anvil Club

By Chris Linden, executive editor

The secret is out, and word is spreading: The Anvil Club is open to all, and not just for dinner. It’s also a prime location for social events including wedding receptions, graduation parties, showers, memorials, anniversaries and business meetings.

A fixture for more than 65 years, this East Dundee landmark used to be reserved for members only. Since opening to the public two years ago, its richly appointed dining rooms invite anyone to come and soak in the atmosphere.

The Anvil Club features nine dining rooms, each one steeped in history. Parties of 10 to 150 can enjoy areas like the cozy wine cellar, the stylish turn-ofthe-century bar, the dark-paneled Board Room, the outdoor veranda, and Sparky’s Lounge, where members once enjoyed drinks and smokes.

“People love the ambience and the food,” says Joe Robinson, general manager. “The chef is amazing. He doesn’t cut corners.”

Chef Tino Almaraz oversees a menu of classic dinner club fare anchored by prime steaks and seafood, but for private parties he accommodates a wide range of tastes. The banquet menu includes many options for appetizers, soup, salad, entrees and desserts in pre-selected plates, buffet-style settings and menu packages.

Banquet manager Harmony Feldbusch brings it all together, from arranging a menu to ordering flowers, cake and colored linens.

Details of the customizable menu are posted online at theanvilclub.net.

Founded as a private dining club for the area’s civic and industrial leaders in the 1950s, The Anvil Club is now “a club

for everyone,” says Robinson. Wood accents and white-linen table settings still exude austerity, and periodic events make anyone feel like a vaunted member.

Patrons are encouraged to wear business casual attire, including collared shirts for men.

The dining room is open to the public Tuesday through Saturday at 5 p.m. and Sunday at 3 p.m. Reservations are highly encouraged. ❚

The Anvil Club is located at 309 Meier St., in East Dundee, (847) 426-7710.

Tips for Finding the Right Piece of Furniture

By Jim Taylor, managing editor

Something as simple as upgrading your furniture can make a huge difference in how you interact with a room. Your furniture is more than just a functional way to rest, relax and store items. It’s also an important extension of your personality.

So, if you’re going to update your furniture it’s a good idea to make sure you do it right the first time. There is a significant difference between well-built furniture and the cheaply made goods available at many a big-box retailer.

“I like to sell furniture that you buy once,” says Bob Wozniak, owner of Strode’s Furniture, in Huntley. “Our furniture is built to last for as long as you want to hold onto it.”

A fixture of Huntley’s downtown, the store is a favorite with customers because of its high-quality wares. Those customers also tend to appreciate the knowledgeable salespeople who are always on

hand to explain the difference in quality and help customers to find something that fits their personal aesthetic.

Quality pieces come ready-made in a wide variety of styles and sizes in the showroom, yet customers are also invited to custom-order something that’s more to their liking. Custom options typically cost more than the options at the big-box store, but their advantage is that you can have it your way, with the colors you like and the size or the finish that you need –and to a standard that’s built to last.

Wozniak and his team have a partnership with the Amish of northern Indiana that allows customers to mix and match wood species, stain and size on a variety of pieces, from dining room tables to bedroom sets. The result is a one-of-a-kind piece for the home.

“A lot of the stuff they make has a more modern look,” says Wozniak.

Strode’s also carries a wide variety of other furniture, particularly sofas and home decor that’s built in America. Many of these options also come with customizable upholstery and other features.

If you’re thinking about buying, it’s always a good idea to provide sizes and styles you like, to help staff zero in on the best options.

“We like to take the time with everyone, especially if they’re coming in to see us for the first time,” says Wozniak. ❚

Strode’s Furniture is located at 11707 Main St., Huntley, (847) 669-3500.

(Strode’s Furniture photo)

The Changing Landscape of Joint Replacement

By Stephanie N. Grimoldby

Whenjoint pain can no longer be assuaged by non-surgical treatments, many patients turn to orthopedic surgeons for relief.

Fortunately, today’s joint replacement procedures are much different from those of the past.

That’s a comforting thought, because the number of knee and hip replacements being completed in the U.S. is increasing.

The demographics also are shifting younger. In years past, surgeons didn’t like to operate on patients they deemed “too young” because the probability of second or even third surgeries was higher.

However, implants now last longer, which helps many surgeons feel more confident recommending surgery.

“I recently did a hip replacement on a chef who’s getting ready to open a restaurant,” says Dr. Kenneth Chakour,

a fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon who specializes in robotic knee replacement at Fox Valley Orthopedics. “He’s 31. He couldn’t stand long enough to cook. There’s no reason he should go suffer and lose his job just because he’s young.”

Not only are materials improving, but so are the surgical procedures.

The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons says the percentage of elective primary total knee replacement cases utilizing robotic assistance is now close to 12%. There are several robotic systems available; surgeons, hospitals and clinics simply choose the right fit for their practice.

The simplest way to visualize the robotic-controlled surgery is a combination of computer, camera and robotic arm that holds a saw during surgery.

This approach helps to reduce cutting of soft tissue, restore balance to the joint and improve accuracy.

“Of course, I don’t need a robot to do surgery,” Chakour says. “But I’d argue that less than a millimeter accuracy time and time again is not attainable without a robot. I compare it to using a GPS. I know how to get home from my clinics, but I also check the best way to get there.” ❚

Fox Valley Orthopedics is located in Geneva, Elgin, Barrington and Algonquin. Schedule a visit at (630) 584-1400.

SCAN

GOOD TIME for a

Enjoy Outdoor Music at Crystal Lake’s Beach

By Pat Szpekowski

Whatcould be more idyllic than a summer night enjoying music by the lake? That’s what loyal fans of the Concerts in the Park anticipate each year at Crystal Lake’s Main Beach.

The beloved concert series returns this summer with regional bands performing at the beach band shell every Tuesday at 7 p.m. from June through August. Best of all, the concerts and parking are free to the public.

“This year we are happy to announce we have a new and improved sound system,” says Jenny Leech, Crystal Lake Park District marketing manager. “This amenity will provide our guests with much easier listening throughout the band shell area, adding to an even more enjoyable atmosphere.”

The 2023 schedule encompasses 10 weekly concerts the entire family can enjoy. This year’s regional bands

represent country music, cover bands, tribute bands, big bands, Latin favorites, instrumentalists and choirs.

Mark your calendars and don’t miss a beat. This year’s performers are: Mackenzie O’Brien Band (May 30), Crystal Lake Community Band (June 6), Jose Valdez & The Mambo All Stars (June 13), The Four C Notes (June 20), Voices in Harmony (June 27), Sushi Roll (July 11), Billy Elton (July 18), Crystal Lake Community Band (July 25), Rhythm Rockets (Aug. 1), and HiFi Superstar (Aug. 8).

Guests are encouraged to bring a blanket or lawn chair, though there are some picnic tables, too. Folks can bring their own food and beverage (including beer and wine), and small charcoal grills are allowed.

“Food trucks will be on hand to tempt concertgoers with a variety of yummy specialties, too,” says Leech.

Another benefit for concertgoers is free parking. A variety of convenient locations are available, not just at Main Beach, but also at the grass triangle across the street, and a block away at South Elementary School.

Inclement weather is always a possibility. Decisions to reschedule are made by 4 p.m. the day of the concert. ❚

Find out more about Concerts at the Park at crystallakeparks.org/specialevents. Main Beach is located at 300 Lakeshore Drive, in Crystal Lake, (815) 459-0680.

(Crystal Lake Parks photo)

Farmers Market+ at The Dole

Ongoing, Sun. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Support local farmers and artisans while enjoying family activities. The Dole, 401 Country Club Road, Crystal Lake, (815) 307-4787, thedole.org.

Huntley Farmers Market

Ongoing, 2nd Sat. 8 a.m.-1 p.m. On the second Saturday of the month, market features a variety of produce, farm-raised meats and more. First Congregational Church of Huntley, 11628 E. Main St., Huntley, (815) 515-5200, huntley.il.us.

Woodstock Farmers Market

Select Sat. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. A mixture of fresh produce, artisan foods and craftsmen. Historic Woodstock Square, Woodstock, (815) 3385315, woodstockfarmersmarket.org.

Kane County Flea Market

May 6-7, Sat. noon-5 p.m., Sun. 7 a.m.-4 p.m. More than 600 dealers bring furniture, holiday decorations, collectibles, and more. Kane County Fairgrounds, 525 S. Randall Road, St. Charles, (630) 584-6926, kanecountyfleamarket.com.

ESO: ‘Rhapsody in Blue’

May 6-7, Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sun. 2:30 p.m. Guest conductor Chad Goodman and award-winning

Entertainment & Events

pianist Drew Petersen. Elgin Symphony Orchestra, Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way, Elgin, (847) 888-4000, elginsymphony.org.

Bob Blazier Run for the Arts

May 7, 8 a.m. race starts. This 5K race through downtown benefits the nonprofit theater. Raue Center for the Arts, 26 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake, (815) 356-9212, rauecenter.org.

Silent Film Night: ‘Kiki’

May 9, 7:30 p.m. A Parisian gamine wants to become a chorus girl to win the heart of the Follies manager. Live accompaniment by organist Jay Warren. Arcada Theatre, 105 E. Main St., St. Charles, (630) 962-7000, arcadalive.com.

Mother’s Day 5K

May 14, 8 a.m. race start. Chip-timed race travels through downtown Barrington; finishers get a rose. Kids dash and 1-mile fun. Location: Corner of East Lake Street and Grove Avenue, downtown Barrington, (224) 757-5425, allcommunityevents.com/mothersday5k.

Lunch & Learn: Birds of Barrington

May 17, 11:30 a.m. Bring your lunch and hear from naturalist Wendy Paulson as she shares highlights of birding in the Barrington area.

Afternoon hike to follow. Barrington’s White House, 145 W. Main St., Barrington, (224) 5124284, barringtonswhitehouse.com.

Trek With a Naturalist

May 18, 6-8 p.m. Join forest preserve staff for an active hike with an ecology lesson. Bliss Woods Forest Preserve, 5S660 Bliss Road, Sugar Grove, (630) 444-3190, kaneforest.com.

Fire Building

May 20, 10-11:30 a.m. Explore methods for starting fires. For ages 7 and older. Reg. req. Rush Creek Conservation Area, 20501 McGuire Road, Harvard, (815) 338-6223, mccdistrict.org.

‘Big Band Beatles’

May 20, 7:30-9 p.m. This performance by the Dean-Dorhauer Jazz Orchestra gives a new perspective on some favorite songs. Norris Cultural Arts Center, 1040 Dunham Road, St. Charles, (630) 584-7200, norrisculturalarts.com.

Greenroom Improv

May 27, 8 p.m. This suburban troupe specializes in clean, high-energy, multi-faceted improv comedy that’s generally clean for the family. Raue Center for the Arts, 26 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake, (815) 356-9212, rauecenter.org. ❚

COMMON SENSE REMODELING

“From the beginning, Advance Design Studio was responsive, courteous, and professional. We couldn’t be more pleased with the outcome or process.”

Tom R. || Arlington Heights

“We highly recommend Advance Design Studio. Our only regret is that we did not find them sooner! We are delighted with our bathroom remodel, and the care and attention to detail from the team.”

Terry P. || Barrington

“We wanted to do something a little unique... Advance Design was the first one that understood the concept of what we were trying to do. The ability to work through one point of contact really made the process achievable.”

ADS Client || Barrington