August 2023

Be Still

Time sure flies when you’re having fun, but does it have to move at lightning speed?

The past few months have been a whirlwind of activity as we move from remodeling projects to coaching T-ball to holiday weekends, gardening, cookouts with friends, family gatherings … you get the idea. No doubt your calendar looks like a barrage of to-dos, as well. It’s enough to make one go insane.

We just got back from our annual family vacation, and this time we traveled to the mountains of eastern Tennessee. If you haven’t seen them, mornings in the Smokies are a sight to behold. The fog dances over the hills and the sunlight creeps over the valleys, peeks through the trees and bursts onto the scene in brilliant color. All the while, we’re serenaded by a chorus of insects, birds and rustling leaves. It’s a powerful reminder of the amazing world in which we live. It’s also a call for us to slow things down, to throw our phones aside and just savor the precious moments of life.

In our rushing from one thing to the next, we so quickly forget to pause and enjoy the small things. Our mind is elsewhere when the kids say, “Come play with me.” A few minutes of quiet becomes hours lost online. A quiet night becomes a nap on the couch. We are literally too busy to smell the roses – or the moonflowers, an essential scent of my summer.

We weren’t made to go, go, go nonstop. Pausing awhile to capture nature’s beauty, to play with the kids, to sit and read a book, or even just to stop and sit – this is when I hear that stillsmall voice calling: Be still. That’s because, in the stillness, we find peace and rest. We feel a thousand miles apart from the day’s distress. We find our grounding.

As any parent knows, planning for a trip with two children – and cleaning up afterward – is stressful all on its own, but somewhere amidst the chaos of traveling and returning to daily life, I can’t help feeling a deeper peacefulness and a renewed sense of joy. I feel centered once again.

All I needed was to bask in the stillness.

Chris Linden Executive Editor

Is Design-Build Right for My Remodel?

By Chris Linden, executive editor

We’ve all heard that old practice of soliciting three bids before a remodel. You hear the pitch, compare the numbers and pick your favorite. But is that really the best way to approach a job as complex as a home remodel? Ask the pros and many will tell you there’s a smarter approach.

“Typically, when you take your project to three contractors and ask, ‘How much will it cost to build this?’ you’ll get what we refer to as apples, oranges and bananas,” says Christine Jurs, co-owner with husband Todd of Advance Design Studio in Gilberts. “They might get three different price ranges because they haven’t finalized every part of the design or selected specific product.”

The answer for many remodelers is the design-build approach. With a process that emphasizes relationships and a single source of coordination,

design-build firms like Advance Design Studio avoid surprises by completing every element of design, selecting every product and specifying exactly what the project will cost. This approach puts clients in the driver’s seat and allows reverse-engineering to meet a budget.

Advance Design Studio follows a process Jurs calls Common Sense Remodeling. It starts with a consultation between the client and a professional designer, and it includes a serious conversation about expected cost ranges. Next, the designer and client work together in creating a custom budget, selecting materials that fit the budget and consulting with in-house tradesmen.

“We develop a complete, cohesive package that says, ‘Here is what we have designed and chosen together, here are real numbers on paper, and here’s a fixed design agreement that safeguards the

homeowners from surprises and cost increases,’” says Jurs.

The design-build process has many advantages, and it’s appealing for complex projects, says Jurs. If a remodel will touch multiple rooms or involve structural changes, design-build firms are equipped to handle many moving pieces.

“It’s a cohesive process that’s meant to alleviate all of the natural challenges that come with this type of remodeling project,” says Jurs. ❚

Advance Design Studio is located at 30 Railroad St., in Gilberts, (847) 836-2300.

(Advance Design Studio photo)

Helping Others

The concepts that matter most to God are pretty clear in scripture. At the top is loving God above all else; next is loving people. In Matthew 22:36-40 (NIV) we read:

Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law? Jesus replied: “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself. All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.”

If we do only these two things, we’re obeying God. But God wants more than obedience; He wants us to really love Him and to really love other people. He also wants us to do His work in partnership with Him.

We can’t love who we don’t know. Jesus Christ studied scripture from the time he was young. Years later, when Satan tempted him, he answered, “It is written, ‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” (Matthew 4:4 ESV).

Satan also knew scripture and slyly quoted it back to Jesus in verse 5. Because Jesus was confident in what he knew, he couldn’t be tricked or talked out of it. We also need to know God through scripture.

When it comes to loving people, we may feel pretty overwhelmed. Where do we begin? There’s so much need.

God wouldn’t tell us to love and help others if it weren’t possible. He knows we’re weak. He asks for our willingness to go where He leads and tells us to rely upon His strength. When we pray for guidance in how to help others, we should expect that He will answer.

God told Paul, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” (2 Corinthians 12:9)

Paul’s response: “That is why, for Christ’s sake, I delight in weaknesses, in insults, in hardships, in persecutions, in difficulties. For when I am weak, then I am strong.” ❚

– Janine Pumilia

Starting Points for a Colorful Landscape

By Pat Szpekowski

Completing a beautiful outdoor home landscape plan, design and outcome isn’t always as easy as 1, 2, 3. But it can be when you meld the visions of a homeowner with the creativity, talents and expertise of a professional landscaper.

Joe Runde, owner of Runde’s Landscape Contractors, located west of Elgin, has been in business since 1988 and has completed many award-winning landscape projects across the Fox Valley. Those projects include everything from yards, patios and garden paths to wooden garden structures, mailbox plantings and water garden features.

“It’s important to match landscaping to the style of your home, neighborhood and environment,” says Runde. “This gives us all a starting point to engage in a positive and worthwhile conversation to help me massage a client’s ideas and bring them to life.”

Runde finds clients are usually concerned about three aspects of their new landscape: low maintenance, color and fair pricing.

In achieving such a goal Runde first listens to the client. He walks with clients around their house and listens to their ideas. Sometimes, they want to spruce up a front entry; other times they want a beautiful patio. With ideas in mind, it’s time to establish a realistic budget.

“That’s when my three focus points begin: Our enthusiasm, creativity and client education to get the job done,” says Runde. “Landscaping is about common sense, and it’s important for me to guide customers who both overthink and underthink their landscape plans.”

Before hiring a designer, check out the company’s website for project ideas. “It can be a starting point to help determine a landscape style, envision favorite

perennials and shrubs, or view both simple and dramatic landscape conversions,” adds Runde.

It also helps to find a designer who’s seriously passionate. “It’s my life,” Runde says. “Even when we go on a personal vacation, it usually revolves around gardening, visiting an arboretum, touring a business, or meeting with one of our main suppliers. I love what I do and I love helping others enjoy their home landscape.” ❚ Runde’s Landscaping is located at 9N299 Ill. Rt. 47, in rural Elgin, (847) 464-5056.

Family Fun at The Dole’s Farmers Market+

By Chris Linden, executive editor

Maybeit’s cliche to say this year’s Farmers Market+ at The Dole is bigger and better than ever, but it’s also true. With more vendors and more excitement squeezed in, Crystal Lake’s biggest farmers market continues to deliver.

The fun happens 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Sunday through October, as 100 vendors and additional food trucks bring everything from fresh produce and meat to honey, baked goods, pizza and tacos, local artisans and children’s activities to the grounds of the Dole Mansion.

“One of the things we get the most feedback about is how happy and nice everyone is, and the variety of vendors and the complementary things we offer to families, such as a balloon artist, face painting, Busy Brains Children’s Museum, characters roaming around, and a weekly cooking demo,” says Sharon LeCoque, who works behind the scenes

with her husband, Jay, and her sister, market manager Linda Wozniak. “These activities are free because of our sponsors, so parents can enjoy other aspects of the market while the kids are entertained.”

At the south entrance, visitors can now find food trucks, a full-service bar, seating and a live musician on the Southside Charlie’s stage. Around the circular lawn at the west entrances, find children’s activities, musicians on the Ringling Stage, additional seating, and more food trucks. Parking and admission are free.

Since the LeCoques and Wozniak launched Farmers Market+ in 2021, it’s been named Illinois’ top market by the American Farmland Trust. LeCoque hopes this year will mark a third straight title. Fans can vote at markets.farmland.org.

Some 35 volunteers keep the weekly market running, and more help is always welcomed, says LeCoque. Proceeds from

the market help to support the ongoing preservation of the 1865 Dole Mansion and its programming. A portion also goes back to the community through the Service League of Crystal Lake.

“We are self-funded, so all of the events we are doing, including the farmers market, Music Under the Trees concert series and Lakeside Festival, help us to keep The Dole running and ensure it’s still here in another 100 years,” says LeCoque. ❚

The Dole is located at 401 Country Club Road, Crystal Lake, (815) 455-8000.

Old Courthouse Center Makes Its Debut

By Peggy Werner

Afteryears of planning and 18 months of renovations totaling about $22 million, the historic Old McHenry County Courthouse and Sheriff’s House will soon be open with a new name, a new look, more tenants, a new purpose, and an even more exciting future on Woodstock’s Historic Square.

The buildings have been extensively renovated and the results will have a huge impact on the city for decades to come, says Woodstock Mayor Mike Turner.

“After the renovation, people will say it’s a magnificent building, an iconic part of Woodstock, and they are glad we did it,” says Turner. “It’s a great investment in our community and will be an economic driver for years to come, bringing more and more people to Woodstock to visit, work, live and play.”

The majestic anchor of the historic Woodstock Square, now dubbed Old

Courthouse Center, is expected to open in mid-August. An open house and other events are being planned so the public can meet new tenants, tour the building, and enjoy some food, drinks and live music to celebrate this moment in history.

Among the new tenants inside, The Public House Restaurant will occupy the entire ground floor. The Woodstock Chamber of Commerce, the Real Woodstock visitors center and Makity Make DIY Craft Studio, of Algonquin, are established on the main level.

Upstairs, Events at Ethereal of Woodstock takes up the entire third floor with a premier events center. There’s a banquet room for up to 180 seated guests, a lounge, a bridal room and a shared kitchen, which doubles as a commercial kitchen for small-scale food vendors.

Over in the old Sheriff’s House, MobCraft Brewing of Milwaukee opens

its newest location. MobCraft specializes in craft beers, many inspired by public recommendations.

Several small spaces within the Old Courthouse fall under the 101 Incubator Retail Program, which allows startup businesses to move in for a limited time.

“We are looking for places that have been selling online only or working out of a home,” says Woodstock City Planner Darrell Moore. “We are hopeful we can provide that place for businesses to get their feet on the ground and then grow larger and move out, so there are

new places for visitors to shop every year.”

When renovations began on the courthouse in February 2022, it had been decades since serious repairs were done to the 166-yearold building. Now, it’s fully revitalized for a new generation.

Renovations include structural repairs, stabilizing and connecting the courthouse and Sheriff’s House, taking down plaster walls and old ceilings, and installing a new roof, windows, stairs and dome. All mechanical, plumbing and electrical systems were replaced and updated, and a geothermal heating and cooling system was added.

The building now has its first-ever elevator, complete with a second stairway in a glass-walled addition in the back of the building.

The Old McHenry County Courthouse, built in 1857, is one of

the oldest buildings on the historic Woodstock Square. It was designed by John Mills Van Osdel, chief architect of the Palmer House in Chicago. Located in the exact center of the county, the building was joined by the accompanying Sheriff’s House and Jail in 1887 and was issued landmark status by the National Register of Historic Places in 1974.

For over a century, the old Courthouse served residents until a new government center was built in 1972. Local residents purchased the historic buildings in 1973 and established an art gallery, studios, restaurant and museum spaces.

The city took over from a private owner in 2012. While the future of the courthouse was being decided, Rockford’s Studio GWA, led by historic preservation advocate Gary W. Anderson, made a professional assessment of the buildings, outlined needed repairs and estimated costs. Two studies evaluated the community’s needs and the best reuse of the buildings.

More recently, Studio GWA has returned to determine the cost of future additions that could include more event and banquet space, boutiques, a hotel, a museum and/or a cafe.

The renovations to the Old Courthouse are paid for by the sale of governments bonds, which will be paid back with rent money from tenants and supplemented with Tax Increment Financing (TIF) funds. The city has partnered with PNC Bank and will use their staff and experience to secure state and federal tax credits of more than $5 million, say Moore and Turner.

“This renovation adds to our already vibrant downtown and elevates us as a community by defining who we are,” says Turner. “I’m proud the City Council made the decision to invest at the level we did, without raising property taxes or affecting the city budget.” ❚

Old Courthouse Center is located at 101 N. Johnson St., on the Historic Woodstock Square in Woodstock.

Orchards Restaurant Reveals a Fresh Face

By Pat Szpekowski

Orchard Valley Golf Course in Aurora, which turns 30 this year, has long been recognized as one of Chicagoland’s top championship golf courses. The experience is rising to new levels as the Orchards Restaurant has recently re-opened with a new, fresh look and menu overseen by Executive Chef Robert Sajdak.

The excitement began in January when the Fox Valley Park District entered into a five-year agreement with Troon Inc., the world’s largest golf course management and hospitality company, to oversee operations at Orchard Valley.

Frank DiBrizzi, Orchard Valley’s new food and beverage director, brings a wealth of knowledge and enthusiasm. The graduate of Marmion Academy in Aurora has a family background in the industry and has honed his skills at wellknown restaurants.

He describes the warm, familyfriendly atmosphere at Orchards Restaurant as something akin to a country club where everyone belongs.

“We attract two different types of clientele: golf dining patrons and local families,” DiBrizzi says. “And we are pleased that both have really embraced the changes here and are enjoying our carefully crafted menu and expert wine selections.”

The restaurant’s lunch menu features tasty sandwiches like the lobster roll, rib-eye steak, reuben, loaded brat and Chicago-style hot dog, plus generous half-pound burgers – to name a few highlights.

Fresh, mouthwatering choices continue into the evening with eclectic dinner entrees such as seafood risotto, Cajun shrimp and grits, and classic comfortfood meatloaf.

Unique shareables are also prominently featured. Lighter fare satisfies appetites for lunch and dinner, with options like special salads and a variety of sizzling flatbreads.

Guests can enjoy lunch in the Bar & Grill or outdoors on the patio. Dinner is served daily in the main dining room. ❚

Orchards Restaurant is located at Orchard Valley Golf Course, 2411 W. Illinois Ave., in Aurora, (630) 907-0600.

(Fox Valley Park District photo)

Stonedrift Spa is a Relaxation Destination

By Jim Taylor, managing editor

Eagle Ridge Resort & Spa has always been a popular destination in Galena for anyone looking for rest and relaxation. Now, with the opening of the resort’s reimagined Stonedrift Spa, visitors have another reason to get excited. The spa’s new standalone location has grown, both in size and offerings, with more than 12,000 square feet of space, luxurious treatment suites and an ever-expanding menu of signature treatments and cutting-edge therapies.

The new space boasts several new amenities, including a full-service barbershop with straight razor shaves and haircuts for male clients. For the ladies, a new hair salon appeals to resort guests and residents in the Galena Territory.

Visitors to the spa will find everything they need for complete relaxation and rejuvenation of body, mind and spirit. Highly skilled and licensed therapists are

on hand to provide a full menu of massages, nail treatments, body exfoliations and wraps, relaxation facials, Hydrafacials, Halotherapy salt experiences, and an ever-expanding spectrum of state-ofthe-art signature treatments and services for individuals, couples, wedding parties, moms-to-be, oncology patients or corporate retreats.

Spa manager Abbigale Porter recommends regularly checking the Stonedrift Spa section at eagleridge.com to stay on top of new products and services, like the yoga studio, which is still undergoing a few finishing touches.

“We’ll be adding a pro-sleep massage, where you’ll end the service with a 15-minute nap,” she says.

Before or after services, clients are welcome to unwind in a relaxation room or hot tub area. There’s also a gathering space for wedding parties or retreats.

For a completely stress-free experience, Porter recommends making a reservation, particularly on weekends.

After a thoroughly relaxing treatment, clients will want to visit the retail shop, where they’ll find a variety of skincare products, massage oils, CBD products and massage devices.

“We’re pretty particular about what we carry,” Porter says. “Eagle Ridge is serious about being sustainable, so our retail products have to reflect that.” ❚

Stonedrift Spa is located at 444 Eagle Ridge Dr., in Galena, (815) 776-5772.

Abbigale Porter, spa manager

Driveway Care Begins with Sealcoating

By Chris Linden, executive editor

Manyhomeowners recognize the importance of sealcoating and filling cracks in their asphalt driveway, but fewer recognize why this is an important step. Fewer still can tell you why a quality job makes all the difference.

In truth, sealcoating is far more than a cosmetic touch.

“Sealcoating is a protective layer that prolongs the life of your driveway, protects the asphalt from oil leaks and UV rays from the sun, and fills in any blemishes and inconsistencies that are natural with asphalt,” says Michael “Mikey” Pett Jr., who oversees the sealcoating division of Pett Paving, his family’s business in Richmond.

Your driveway’s first sealcoat is probably the most important coat, adds Pett. This is the pavement’s first line of defense. It should be done about six to 12 months after the driveway is installed and

must go through at least one winter. This is because asphalt takes time to cure.

Once the first layer of sealcoat is applied, plan to add a new coat every other year. Applied too frequently, sealcoat builds up, cracks and wears off, says Pett.

“We use only the highest-quality materials to ensure the customer gets the most out of their investment,” says Pett. “We know exactly what needs to be done, and we do not try to sell a customer something they don’t need. There are shady sealcoat contractors out there who will water down their material, won’t prep the job properly and won’t be around when you need help.”

Homeowners can extend the life of their driveway with a few simple measures. For starters, backfill dirt against the edge of the driveway to support the asphalt. Avoid heavy vehicles, bike kickstands, trailer hitches and other areas of

concentrated weight, as those can damage a new driveway. In addition, keep the vehicle moving while turning your wheels – especially on hot days.

Plenty of homeowners choose to sealcoat by themselves. Others hire the itinerant companies that pass through the neighborhood. This is a case where you get what you pay for, says Pett.

Reputable companies use higherquality materials, offer free estimates, and have the expertise to recognize what will keep the driveway in good shape for years to come, says Pett. ❚

Pett Paving is located at 3790 E. Solon Road, in Richmond, (815) 675-0647.

Things to Consider About Pregancy, Delivery

By Stephanie N. Grimoldby

Ababy is a miracle, one that expecting mothers can protect before, during and even after the baby makes its appearance.

If you’re planning to start or expand a family, the first thing to do is meet with your gynecologist, says Dr. Kelli Kilgore, an OB-GYN at Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital in Barrington.

“Appointment by appointment, there is a lot of counseling about pregnancy precautions, travel, medications and reviewing your risk factors,” Kilgore says. “Aside from that, every visit is pretty much going over the expectations for that gestational age.”

While a lot of that information may seem self-explanatory for seasoned mothers, there are a lot of questions for first-time moms. It’s also a good time to review the basics, like making sure mom

OB-GYNs now can offer earlier screenings to reveal gender or detect genetic complications like Down syndrome. It’s important to go over these options with your provider, Kilgore says, and it’s even more important to follow through with the more crucial screenings, because they will ensure a healthy baby and mother.

Once expecting mothers get closer to their third trimester, it’s time to start thinking about a birth plan. Kilgore says Good Shepherd Hospital promotes vaginal births as much as possible, but mothers need to understand that C-sections are sometimes necessary. Going over pain management is important.

During pregnancy, most hospitals offer classes to help parents prepare. Once the baby has arrived, there are still

a lactation consultant who can help with breastfeeding struggles, a breastfeeding support group for moms and one of the most important conversation topics: postpartum depression.

Through it all, the OB-GYN is there to help. “There is not a question that is ever too stupid to ask your OB-GYN, ever,” Kilgore says. “Most of the time, 100 other people have had that exact same

Family Story MATTERS YOUR

Encore Memory Care o ers highly personalized care and support for residents who have Alzheimer’s disease and other related dementia. Our specially trained team members honor your loved one’s routines and preferences, as well as family traditions.

Turn to Whole Grain for a Healthy Snack

Smarter snacking is an important way to protect your heart.

According to a survey conducted by The Harris Poll on behalf of the American Heart Association, U.S. adults are least knowledgeable about refined vs. whole grains compared to other food categories. Whole grains are a key feature of the Association’s recommendations.

Whole grains like sorghum, oatmeal and brown rice contain the entire grain. They’re rich sources of dietary fiber, may improve blood cholesterol levels and provide nutrients that help the body form new cells, regulate the thyroid and maintain a healthy immune system.

To discover more heart-healthy recipes from the American Heart Association’s Healthy for Good initiative, supported by the Sorghum Checkoff, visit heart.org/healthyforgood.

(Source: Family Features)

Date Nut Granola Bars

Nonstick cooking spray

1 1/2 cups rolled oats

1/4 cup almond slices or chopped almonds

1/4 cup shelled pistachios, chopped

1 cup pitted dates

1/2 cup unsweetened dried cranberries

1/4 cup uncooked whole-grain sorghum

1/4 cup honey

1/4 cup low-sodium peanut butter

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1/8 teaspoon salt

Preheat oven to 350 F.

Line 8-inch square baking pan with plastic wrap or parchment paper. Lightly spray with nonstick cooking spray.

On large baking sheet, spread oats, almonds and pistachios. Bake 10-15 minutes, or until lightly brown, stirring occasionally. Let cool slightly.

In food processor or blender, process dates and cranberries 1-1½ minutes, or until chopped and clumpy. Transfer to large bowl.

Put 2 TB sorghum in silicone microwaveable bowl or brown paper bag. If using microwaveable bowl, cover with lid. If using paper bag, roll shut and place on microwavable dinner plate with fold

facing down. Microwave on high 2 minutes, or until there are more than 10 seconds between pops. Repeat with remaining sorghum.

Stir popped sorghum, oats, almonds and pistachios into date mixture.

In small saucepan over low heat, heat honey and peanut butter 5 minutes, or until peanut butter is smooth and mixture is warmed, stirring occasionally. Remove from heat. Stir in vanilla and salt. Pour peanut butter mixture over date mixture. Transfer half to baking pan. Using bottom of drinking glass or fingers, press down firmly to flatten and pack tightly so clumps adhere to each other. Repeat with remaining half. Freeze, covered, about 1 hour, to firm.

Place cutting board over pan. Turn pan over. Discard plastic wrap. Using knife, cut into bars. Refrigerate leftovers in airtight container up to 1 week. ❚

Fall into Arts at Raue Center

By Steven Bonifazi, assistant editor

Anelectrifying roster of entertainment is coming to Crystal Lake’s Raue Center for the Arts, and it’s not only about who’s onstage. With new technology and a wide audience appeal, Raue Center is staging a season unlike any other.

“We have new lights, a new sound system and, for our Arts on the Green outdoor series, the team is building a semipermanent amphitheater stage,” says Richard Kuranda, executive director. “On top of that, we have one of the best artist lineups we’ve had in a long time.”

Live music is a cornerstone and it starts with The Dave Matthews Tribute Band on Aug. 12. This five-piece ensemble delivers all of the excitement, energy and intimacy of the real deal. Look for Battle of the Bands on Aug. 19 and tributes to the Grateful Dead, ABBA and the Beach Boys in months to come.

Experience the magic of cinema on Aug. 13 with a screening of “Little Things,” a short film that’s racked up film festival wins. The event is followed by a Q&A with the Chicago-based filmmakers.

Raue’s Arts on the Green outdoor series concludes on Aug. 26 as Heather Wood and Jessica Hornsten pay tribute to Linda Ronstadt and Joni Mitchell.

Then, five-time Grammy-winning blues guitarist Robert Cray hits the stage Sept. 8. He’s followed by award-winning blues guitarist Hector Anchondo on Sept. 23 and country singer-songwriter Phil Vassar on Nov. 18.

Enjoy an evening of laughter on Sept. 9 as Pat McGann, co-founder of Lucy’s Comedy, takes the stage.

“Pat and I sat down one day 16 years ago as the Great Recession was hitting and said we should try a comedy club,” says

Kuranda. “He’s toured the world three or four times, had sold out shows at the Chicago Theatre and is just an amazing voice of Chicagoland.”

There’s much more to come, as Greenroom Improv continues its monthly improv show, Lucy’s Comedy resumes and the holiday season approaches.

For the latest information and to order tickets, head to rauecenter.org. ❚

Raue Center for the Arts is located at 26 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake, (815) 356-9212.

(Todd Heintz/Raue Center for the Arts photo)

Downtown Elgin Farmers Market

Through Oct. 27, Fri. 3-7 p.m. Local foods, crafts, candles, soaps, spices and more. Downtown Elgin, between Chicago Street and Fulton Avenue, (847) 488-1456, downtownelgin.com.

Huntley Farmers Market

Through Oct. 29, Sat. 8 a.m.-1 p.m. A wide variety of products with live music and special events. Downtown Huntley in the square, 11704 Coral St., (815) 515-5200, huntley.il.us.

Woodstock Farmers Market

Through Oct. 29, Tues. & Sat. 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Live music and everything from produce to artisan crafts. All items are grown or produced locally. Location: Historic Woodstock Square, woodstockfarmersmarket.org.

Music Under the Trees: Two Beer Tommy Aug. 10, 6-9 p.m. This dynamic band plays modern classic country rock in venues throughout the Midwest. The Dole, 401 Country Club Road, Crystal Lake, (815) 455-8000, thedole.org.

Walk With a Naturalist

Aug. 12, 9-10:30 a.m. Naturalist Mark Hurley leads a leisurely stroll through the Fox River Forest Preserve. Learn about the history of the site

Entertainment & Events

and its interesting plants and animals. Fox River Forest Preserve, 28500 W. Roberts Road, Port Barrington, (847) 381-0669, lcfpd.org.

The Dave Matthews Tribute Band

Aug. 12, 8 p.m. This five-piece ensemble strives to match their famous counterparts in excitement, energy, intensity and intimacy. Raue Center for the Arts, 26 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake, (815) 356-9212, rauecenter.org.

Life and Times of WWII

Aug. 13, noon-4 p.m. Visit the Powers-Walker home and learn about the families that once lived there, including the Schaeffer and Steinmetz families. Powers-Walker Home, Glacial Park, 6705 Ill. Rt. 31, Ringwood, (815) 338-6223, mccdistrict.org.

Trim a 3-D Printed Bonsai

Aug. 17, 6 p.m. Translate this fun horticultural art into the digital age by trimming 3-D printed leaves. Reg. req. Geneva Public Library District, 227 S. 7th St., Geneva, (630) 232-0780, gpld.org.

ESO: A Summer Evening

Aug. 17, 6:30 p.m. A program of classical and popular music with Elgin Symphony. Bring seats and a picnic. Robert Soule Amphitheatre, Citizens

Park, 511 N. Lake Zurich Road, Barrington, (224) 512-4115, barringtonswhitehouse.com.

Bread & Butter Sunday

Aug. 20, 1-4 p.m. Get back to basics by learning how to make bread and butter from scratch. Durant House Museum, 37W700 Dean St., St. Charles, (630) 377-6424, ppfv.org.

Arts on the Green: Ladies From the Canyon

Aug. 26, 7 p.m. Heather Wood and Jessica Hornsten showcase the best-loved songs of Linda Ronstadt and Joni Mitchell. Raue Center’s Arts on the Green, St. Mary Episcopal Church, 210 McHenry Ave., Crystal Lake, (815) 356-9212, rauecenter.org.

Geneva Concours d’Elegance

Aug. 27, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Participants display their antique, classic and modern automobiles. Downtown Geneva, along 3rd St., (630) 5843107, genevaconcours.net.

LITH Summer Sunset Festival

Aug. 31-Sept. 3, Thurs. 5 p.m., Fri. 3-10:30 p.m., Sat. 9:30 a.m.-10:30 p.m., Sun. 11 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Music, carnival, craft fair, food, Sun. fireworks. Sunset Park, 5200 Miller Road, Lake in the Hills, (847) 960-7400, summersunsetfest.com. ❚