KC July 2016

LEISURE & RECREATION July 2016

TINY HOUSES BIG ADVENTURES FIT SPECIAL

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INSIDE

LEISURE & RECREATION 8 TINY HOUSE, BIG ADVENTURE Going ‘tiny’ takes family road tripping to the next level

12 RIVER RAMBLERS Recreation opportunities plentiful along Fox River

15 EDITOR’S CHOICE: OUTDOOR LIVING Whether you plan to hike in the woods or relax by the lake, we’ve got you covered with these accessories

16 EMBRACING THE WILD Local campgrounds experiencing rise in popularity

20 THE BOOK LIST

As if sweating weren’t enough …

Water, mud and chalk are new elements being added to area obstacle course races

How to access your inner spark

HOME & LIFESTYLE 52 STOP AND SMELL THE ROSES A lesson in how to grow the most popular cut flower in the world: roses.

54 SET THE SCENE

22 HIKER’S HEAVEN

Create an inviting space for alfresco entertaining

DINING & ENTERTAINING

DIRTY

50 SEASONAL RENEWAL

Local librarians offer sizzling summer reads Woodland adventures are just a trail away

41 DOWN AND

FAMILY IN FOCUS

OUT & ABOUT 56 GENEVA ARTS FAIR

24 DOWN ON THE FARM

A preview to the popular festival

Heritage Prairie Farm pizza nights, themed dinner parties captivate community

58 STAR SPANGLED SUMMER

26 TAKE IT OUTSIDE!

Park it at Pottawatomie for the Fourth of July

Patio season heats up in Kane County

59 GET PATRIOTIC

30 TIKI KIND OF TOWN

A guide to Fourth of July festivities

Tropical drinks to transport you to paradise

60 BEAUTIFUL BLOOMS

BUSINESS & CIVIC

Garden club’s biennial walk to be ‘A Day in the Country’

35 WOMAN OF DISTINCTION Construction company president Doris Procaccio finds success in maledominated industry

62 CALENDAR OF EVENTS

FASHION & BEAUTY

64 ARTIST SHOWCASE

38 NATURAL BEAUTY Green Envee brings organic remedies to downtown Geneva

FIT SPECIAL SECTION 41 DOWN AND DIRTY As if sweating weren’t enough … Water, mud and chalk are new elements being added to area obstacle course races

See what’s happening in Kane County this July.

Waubonsee Community College graduate Amanda Meyer shares “Ensnared By Fate, No Lies Escape,” a conceptual fine art image

66 SOCIAL LIFE Block Party: A look at Donnie Wahlberg’s sold-out show in St. Charles

44 LOCAL TEACHERS REACH their PEAK with new fitness studio in St. Charles

46 FUN WITH 5KS Contribute to a good cause with these local runs and races

4 | July 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

Editor's Note After embarking on a road trip across the North American landscape, John Steinbeck wrote, “What good is the warmth of summer, without the cold of winter to give it sweetness.”

No one understands the truth behind those words better than a Midwesterner.

The beauty of being a Midwesterner is that after six to (seemingly) eight months of winter hibernation, at the very first sign of warmer weather, we flock to the outdoors!

We don’t take sunny days and temperate nights for granted.

And, especially during the summer, we take our weekending seriously.

We take hikes, bask in the sun, hit the beach, chat over an open fire and sleep under the stars.

Harkening back to the days of the family road trip – remember wood-paneled station wagons, car bingo and your dad yelling, “I’ll pull this car over!” – this issue discusses why the recreational vehicle just got a whole lot “bigger”… or tinier, depending on how you look at it.

The tiny house movement is upon us, and these literal “mobile” homes are taking the RV lifestyle to the next level. Local tiny house manufacturer Bob Clarizio sees tiny homes as a means for living large while on the road.

In “Tiny Houses, Big Adventures,” find out how these multi-wheeled micro-dwellings are changing the way families travel (Page 8).

From river recreation, camping and hiking trails to alfresco dining, farm dinners and tiki drinks, we’ve got you covered.

Thanks for reading,

Each day is precious because we know the season is fleeting. As quickly as it came, it will be gone, and – once again – we’ll be shoveling snow from our driveways, scraping ice from our windshields and wondering why we live in such a God-forsaken tundra to begin with.

GENERAL MANAGER Laura Burke 630-427-6213 lburke@shawmedia.com DIRECTOR OF NICHE REVENUE Sherri Dauskurdas 630-427-6263 sdauskurdas@shawmedia.com

Kara Silva, Editor

This issue, the Leisure & Recreation edition, will help inject a little soul into your summer by giving you even more reason to seize the day and get outside.

EDITOR Kara Silva 630-427-6209 ksilva@shawmedia.com DESIGNER Carol Manderfield 630-427-6253 cmanderfield@shawmedia.com

on the

COVER

Tiny houses are taking over!

These micro-dwellings are changing the way families vacation. Find out why Titan Tiny Homes builder Bob Clarizio (left), and his family, couldn’t be happier about the growing trend, on Page 8.

Photo by RON MCKINNEY Salon Services by MARIO TRICOCI Stylist - HALLEY Makeup - ANDI

6 | July 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

Published by Shaw Media 333 N. Randall Road, Suite 2 St. Charles, IL 60174 Phone: 630-845-5288 www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

ACCOUNT MANAGERS Sandra Petti 630-313-0251 spetti@shawmedia.com Tricia Walter 630-845-5272 twalter@shawmedia.com CORRESPONDENTS Chris Walker, Melissa Riske, Kelsey O’Connor, Jonathan Bilyk, Yvonne Benson, Elizabeth Harmon, Jay Schwab, Wendy Foster PHOTOGRAPHERS Ron McKinney, Joe Perez, Jennifer Kaye, Brian Babineau

Kane County Magazine is available by subscription for $24 a year. If you would like each month’s edition mailed to your home, send payment information and address to Kane County Magazine, 7717 S. Route 31, Crystal Lake, IL 60014 or via email at subscriptions@shawmedia.com.

www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

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TINY HOUSE

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Going ‘tiny’ takes family road tripping to the next level

By ELIZABETH HARMON | Photos by Ron McKinney

8 | July 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

LEISURE & RECREATION

www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

“When we go someplace in [a tiny house], we get swarmed. Everyone wants to know what it is, and can they see inside it?”

– Bob Clarizio, owner of Titan Tiny Homes in South Elgin

Bucking the longtime trend toward super-sized homes, micro-sized tiny houses have become a popular alternative for buyers seeking simplicity, lower living costs and an environmentally sustainable lifestyle.

Kane County builder Bob Clarizio, owner of Titan Tiny Homes in South Elgin, couldn’t be happier about the growing interest, fueled in large part by TV shows, such as HGTV’s “Tiny House Hunters” and the FYI network’s “Tiny House Nation,” which will feature Clarizio and his business in episodes airing Saturday, July 9, and Saturday, Aug. 27.

Clarizio even keeps a tiny house available at his business for prospective customers who want to spend the night in one before they buy.

“I just had a couple come all the way from West Virginia,” says Clarizio. “They’ve bought a piece of land and are outfitting their house to live in full time.”

But Clarizio also realizes that living full time in a 200- to 300-square-foot space isn’t for everybody. Even so, he sees the appeal of tiny houses extending beyond the core demographic of singles, first-time buyers and empty nesters.

Clarizio envisions tiny houses as the perfect solution for vacationers.

Starting at under $50,000, they are an affordable alternative to a traditional vacation home, whether they’re parked at a campground or lakeside and connected to available utilities, or moved to a plot of land and outfitted (at additional cost) for off-the-grid living.

“I’ve talked to hunters who have remote five acre parcels with no utilities, and we can set them up to be fully sustainable,” says Clarizio.

They also offer benefits not found in traditional

-Continued on page 10 www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

LEISURE & RECREATION

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | July 2016 | 9

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While many RV enthusiasts like the convenience and affordability of travel trailers, structurally, they’re not built to withstand long-term parking and exposure. “When I was a kid, we had one parked at a place in Wisconsin and when it sits, it deteriorates, rots and leaks,� he says.

Though park models can remain in one place, transporting them to a site, or relocating them – even occasionally – can require scheduling a wide-load escort. “A park model is 10 feet wide and takes up most of the road. The average person can’t move it on their own,� he says, adding that park model utilities aren’t conducive for short-term connections..

But a towable tiny house offers the best of both worlds, Clarizio says.

“We’ve sold units to customers from northern Minnesota, Maine and North Dakota, and other places where it gets really cold. Our houses are insulated to stay at 70 degrees inside, even when it’s 10 below outside, so you can use it all year,� he says.

recreational vehicles. Clarizio explains that RVs come in two distinctively different classifications: Park models are designed to remain at a permanent site, while smaller, towable travel trailers, can be moved around easily.

At eight and a half feet wide, 13 and a half feet tall and 16 to 32 feet long, the house can be hitched to a pick-up truck (Clarizio moves his tiny home with a three-quarter-ton, 2500 series truck).

Quality insulation and double windows ensure the structure can withstand harsh climate and seasonal use.

-Continued from page 9

Prior to launching Titan Tiny Homes, Clarizio focused on home construction and remodeling and takes pride in offering residential quality materials and craftsmanship. “We use steel stud construction because we wanted to eliminate the opportunity for the structure to rot. Inside, we have drywall and butcher block countertops and premium cabinetry,� he says.

The tiny home’s two lofts provide

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10 | July 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

LEISURE & RECREATION

www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

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This summer, Clarizio, his wife, Terri, and their young son are finding that a tiny house is great for weekend trips in the area. When the family recently parked at a Yorkville campground, the family’s tiny house drew big interest.

“When we go someplace in it, we get swarmed,” says Clarizio. “Everyone wants to know what it is, and can they see inside it? We must have had 40 or 50 people come to look at it.”

Tiny house camping is more comfortable and convenient than roughing it in a tent, Terri Clarizio says.

“It’s nice having a private bath, sink and electricity,” Terri Clarizio says, adding that she has adjusted to the challenge of cooking in a small kitchen. “You do need to be mindful of space, though the fridge and freezer are decent sized. I would definitely consider it for a longer trip, like up to northern Wisconsin. People up there live in homes that are very small, so we’ll fit right in.”

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LEISURE & RECREATION

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | July 2016 | 11

RECREATION D

OPPORTUNITIES PLENTIFUL ALONG FOX RIVER

By JAY SCHWAB

12 | July 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

LEISURE & RECREATION

uring the summer, the Fox River becomes a major attraction for outdoor recreation in Kane County.

Over the years, kayaking and paddle boarding have become more popular – and more abundant – along the river.

Joe Peterson has owned Fox River Canoe & Kayak for about six years, and he says that business has been relatively steady.

“The only thing I’ve noticed is kayaks are becoming more popular and paddleboards gaining popularity as well,” Peterson says.

“It’s probably a national trend.”

www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

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From March through November, Fox River Canoe & Kayak offers a trio of self-guided canoe and kayak river trips. The cost is $40 for the Batavia trip, and $60 for the North Aurora and St. Charles trips (the price includes life preservers, paddles and shuttles). Boats are usually launched at 9 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.

The Batavia trip begins at Old Mill Park in Geneva and heads down the Fox River to Batavia. The relatively quick trip is about 3 miles long – well-suited for beginners and families – and takes about an hour.

-Continued on page 14

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LEISURE & RECREATION

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | July 2016 | 13

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-Continued from page 13 The St. Charles trip is 5 miles long. It begins at the John J. Duerr Forest Preserve in South Elgin and ends at the Ferson Creek Park in St. Charles. The trip is about 2 ½ hours long.

The North Aurora trip is the longest of the three, stretching more than 6 miles and lasting about three hours. The trip begins at the Old Mill Park in Geneva and ends at the Main Street Bridge in North Aurora.

• Lifetime Warranty Hours: Monday–Friday 7:30–5:30pm Saturday 9:00–11:00am

Peterson enjoys fielding inquiries from customers with a wide range of experience.

Questions have ranged from requests for a demonstration to whether dogs can tag along for the trip (usually yes, with notice).

He says interest is high this time of year.

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“From the middle of June to Labor Day, it’s pretty much very busy,” Peterson says.

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Mill Race Cyclery, 11 E. State St., Geneva, also is seeking to capitalize on the demand for river recreation by offering much more than bicycles. New this summer, Mill Race Cyclery is renting kayaks and stand-up paddle boards. Customers will have the choice of paddling north from Geneva to St. Charles and back or heading south to Batavia or North Aurora.

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14 | July 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

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Later this summer, Mill Race Cyclery plans to offer stand-up paddle board lessons and yoga.

IF YOU GO ¢ MILL RACE CYCLERY, 11 E. State St., Geneva, is open for rentals from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Fridays; from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Thursdays and from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays. For more information, visit millrace.com. ¢ FOX RIVER CANOE & KAYAK offers recreational canoe and kayak river trips to St. Charles, Batavia and North Aurora. For more information, call 630-443-8921 or email foxrivercanoe@gmail.com.

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LEISURE & RECREATION

www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

EDITOR’S CHOICE ODE TO THE OUTDOORS

Whether you have plans to hike in the woods, camp under the stars or relax at the lake, we’ve got you covered with these outdoor accessories.

• Trendy this summer are the metalframed, colorreflective mirror lens aviators.

Denise’s Adornments in Geneva

• The Kikkerland Log Head Rest Pillow is perfect for camping.

Team it with this camp bag to keep together toiletries, odds and ends or use it as a first-aid pouch.

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• Don’t forget your Naked Zinc organic sunscreen and lip balm, and a hand sanitizer.

The Little Traveler in Geneva

• Keep pesky bugs from getting into your glass with Wine Guard.

• The perfect coverup and tote for an evening at the beach The Paper Merchant in Geneva

Galena Cellars in Geneva

• Feel at home in the woods with Cedar Wood Soap.

The Little Traveler in Geneva

• Lemongrass and peppermint sprays double as organic bug repellent. Green Envee in Geneva

LOCAL CAMPGROUNDS EXPERIENCING A RISE IN POPULARITY

By JONATHAN BILYK Jake Wolfe recalls, with fondness, the time he got to spend as a Scout in and around Kane County.

River and other preferred recreational real estate.

Wolfe says he loved the time spent outdoors, with boyhood friends, hiking the land, boating the local waters and, of course, camping.

“Scouts especially get to camp in some of the best places around here,” Wolfe says, with a laugh. “Almost makes me wish I was a Scout again sometimes.”

In many ways, it laid the groundwork for him to embrace his current job as manager of the Rocktown Adventures outlet in Aurora. He helps others get in tune with local waterways, walking trails and other options for outdoor fun in the region.

Public forest preserves in and around Kane County still offer some solid choices for those looking for overnight outdoor recreation, says both Wolfe and Laurie Metanchuk, director of community affairs and environmental education for the Forest Preserve District of Kane County.

But, looking back, Wolfe says that one of the things that Scouting provided was access to some of the most prime spots along the Fox

Apparently, many people in and around Kane County already know this, as local campsites are experiencing steady growth.

16 | July 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

LEISURE & RECREATION

In 2015, the Forest Preserve District of Kane County reported about 9,300 campsites were rented in total at both of the county’s public campgrounds: Paul Wolff Campground (located at Burnidge Forest Preserve, off of Big Timber Road, near Gilberts) and Big Rock Campground (located off of Granart Road, southwest of Sugar Grove).

That corresponded with a 2.4 percent increase in the monthly average attendance, compared to 2014, according to the Forest Preserve’s 2015 annual campground report.

According to the annual report, the increase appeared to be driven by increased numbers of visitors from outside the county. The report www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

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However, both of those numbers represented gains versus 2014, when 48 percent of those pitching tents or pulling RVs at Paul Wolff, and 40 percent of those at Big Rock, came from outside the county to camp.

-Continued on page 18 www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

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LEISURE & RECREATION

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | July 2016 | 17

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“The campgrounds have really been picking up steam,” says Metanchuk. “And we expect them to keep getting more and more popular in coming years.”

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18 | July 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

-Continued from page 17

LEISURE & RECREATION

The improved Kane County camping numbers square with results seen across the country. According to the 2016 North American Camping Report produced by Cairn Consulting Group, and sponsored

by Kampgrounds of America (KOA), 28 percent of Americans surveyed said they had camped at least once in 2015, an increase of 1.2 million households compared to the previous year.

Of those new campers, the report says that nearly a third said they enjoyed camping within 50 miles of home. And a quarter of campers overall said they expected to camp close to home in 2016.

The report indicates 18 percent of new campers are African-American and 11 percent were Hispanic, while the most common age group discovering camping are so-called millennials, or those between the ages of 12 and 34. The report did not compare the number of male campers vs. women.

Metanchuk says that the county doesn’t track how many individual people camped at forest preserve campgrounds, or actual demographics, beyond whether they were Kane County residents – a statistic that can be tracked easily, as the county charges higher nightly fees to non-residents.

Anecdotally, however, she says that forest preserve staff reported an upsurge in the number of couples without children and retirees, in particular.

Metanchuk says the draw for many appears to be the possibility of a quick, affordable getaway, offering “a few nights away, where people can unplug or stay plugged in, as they wish, and still

“It’s a little bit of everything,� Metanchuk says.

Within the forest preserves in which the campgrounds are nestled, campers can enjoy a range of recreational options, as well, including fishing and hiking. She notes that Paul Wolff offers 9 miles of trails, and Big Rock’s trails cover 10.3 miles.

Equestrian riding and camping also are drawing more people, she says, thanks to word spreading of the campgrounds’ dedicated equestrian campsites.

And for those for whom camping may appear a new, risky adventure, the Kane Forest Preserve District has launched its new Camp with a Ranger program, through which a new group of campers can rent all the equipment they may need and be matched with a ranger who can help them set up camp and become acclimated to the experience.

Metanchuk says the district has enough supplies for just one group at a time, however.

Similarly, Wolfe says Rocktown Adventures in Aurora also has started renting camp equipment, offering those new to camping a chance to try it for themselves without buying all of the gear. “We can set them up with everything they need, so they can be sure they’re not forgetting anything important,� Wolfe says. “And if they decide it’s not for them, they don’t need to worry about being stuck with all of the stuff.�

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ŠHS 2016

be close� to the conveniences of nearby cities and, for some, friends and family.

The campgrounds offer a choice of primitive tent sites set back in the woods or sites designed for RVs, with full utility hookups.

Bothered by Varicose and Spider Veins?

Dr. Gilvydis can make them disappear.

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | July 2016 | 19

The book list

LOCAL LIBRARIANS OFFER SELECTIONS FOR SUMMER READING

Hit the beach, relax at the lake or curl up by the campfire with any of these sizzling summer reads: ‘THE SUMMER BEFORE THE WAR’

the complexity of keeping humans alive in space.

By Helen Simonson If you want to lose yourself in historical fiction with great characters, try Helen Simonson’s “The Summer Before the War.” Set in 1914 England, a young woman’s decision to live independently astonishes a small town. It has something for everyone: history, friendship, humor, war-time bravery and romance.

‘BEFORE THE FALL’

‘GRUNT: The Curious Science of Humans at War’ & ‘PACKING FOR MARS: The Curious Science of Life in the Void’ Both by Mary Roach Mary Roach is an author to try if you enjoy well-written, humorous nonfiction covering fascinating topics.

Her newest, “Grunt: The Curious Science of Humans at War,” explores the issues confronting the military in its attempt to protect and enable combat troops. But I also recommend “Packing for Mars: The Curious Science of Life in the Void.” It’s about 20 | July 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

By Noah Hawley For those who like books that keep you on the edge of your chair, there’s a lot of buzz about “Before the Fall.”

It’s a suspenseful mix of mystery and tragedy about the investigation of a plane crash.

‘DARK MATTER’

By Blake Crouch Another buzz-worthy, suspenseful title is “Dark Matter.” In the sciencefiction thriller, there are alternate realities.

– Recommendations made by Marlise Schiltz, Reader Services Librarian at St. Charles Public Library, One S. Sixth Ave., St. Charles.

‘ALL THE OLD KNIVES’

By Olen Steinhauer Think “Gone Girl” with spies. In this short, twisty espionage thriller, a man and a woman – once a couple – meet for dinner to discuss old times.

LEISURE & RECREATION

They had begun their relationship when working together as spies overseas, and old habits die hard. The conversation quickly devolves into a game of deception, power plays and covert alliances. As the narrative ricochets between his voice and hers, the reader learns each person’s secrets. But who should be trusted?

This page-turner will keep you on the edge of your seat.

‘THE SWANS OF FIFTH AVENUE’

By Melanie Benjamin This well-researched biographical novel reveals the inner lives of author Truman Capote and the wealthy, glamorous women he befriended and who confided in him. Capote’s “swans” led outward lives of luxury, but this book reveals them as broken people living outwardly beautiful lives.

The tone of the novel is intimate and often snarky, giving access to the lives of socialites in the 1950s and 1960s.

Lifestyles of the rich and famous also are filled with plenty of loneliness and betrayal. If you’re anything like me, www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

3 BEACH READS FOR TEENS ‘SALT TO THE SEA’

By Ruta Sepetys Fans of historical fiction will be swept away with Ruta Sepetys’ new novel.

Tragic and heartbreaking, this haunting gem will stick with you long after the last page has been read. Keep tissues handy.

you’ll be Googling photos of the real-life characters in this book.

a comfortable lawn chair – it’s difficult to put this one down.

‘THE HIGHWAYMAN’

‘THE PASSENGER’

By Craig Johnson If you like books with vivid characters, a compelling plot and an evocative sense of place, Craig Johnson just might be your kind of author.

His acclaimed mystery series, narrated by Wyoming sheriff Walt Longmire with his distinctive dry wit, features tough, kindhearted people facing perilous situations.

In this installment, which stands nicely on its own, a young highway patrol officer hears the voice of her deceased predecessor calling for back-up over the radio. Sheriff Longmire and his longtime friend Henry Standing Bear investigate the strange occurrence in this atmospheric mystery/ghost story mash-up.

By Lisa Lutz Fans of Gillian Flynn and Mary Kubica will enjoy this dark psychological page-turner with an unreliable narrator.

The ending will make you want to start the book all over again.

By Alwyn Hamilton Take several scoops of Arabian Nights, add a pinch of the Old West and stir in one bold gunslinger and the result is a fantasy that crackles with excitement and adventure.

‘THE WEEKENDERS’

‘RAILHEAD’

‘REBEL OF THE SANDS’

By Mary Kay Andrews Blending romance, mystery and intrigue with great characters, it’s easy to get caught up in the drama of this entertaining beach read.

Slather on some sunscreen and enjoy.

– Recommendations made

by Meredith Anderson, Adult Services Outreach Librarian at Geneva Public Library, 127 James St., Geneva.

By Philip Reeve Get ready to shoot across the universe while reading this imaginative romp in outer space. Discover ancient treasures, explore alien landscapes and meet some amazing characters.

– Recommendations made by Meredith Anderson, Adult Services Outreach Librarian at Geneva Public Library.

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LEISURE & RECREATION

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | July 2016 | 21

HIKER’S HEAVEN

By JONATHAN BILYK

Sometimes you just need to get away from it all, and retreating to the woods to hike the trails can be the perfect activity to break up your routine.

The Kane County Forest Preserve District’s director of community affairs and environmental education, Laurie Metanchuk knows many of the county’s best spots for getting away from everything, even if for just a few hours.

And for Metanchuk, no spots in Kane County can top Dick Young Forest Preserve in Batavia.

trails back there, you can walk for a long time and not see anyone.”

In Kane County, the forest preserves are the place to go for hikers looking for a few hours or an entire day to take in nature, while still close to home.

And while some won’t mind – figuratively – getting lost in the internal trail systems within forest preserves like Dick Young or Raceway Woods, located at the county’s north end near Carpentersville, Metanchuk says the county also abounds with options for those who may wish to cover actual distance.

Locally, those options begin with the Fox River Trail. Covering 40 miles along the river from Algonquin to Aurora, in many ways, defines Kane County. The multi-use trail also serves as a spine of sorts for the county’s network of connected “It has just a little bit of everything you’re looking trails. for from a local trails experience,” Metanchuk says. “Seeing the water, hearing the wind rustle “It’s really the best opportunity, if you’re looking to just cover some serious ground,” says through the woodland and the prairie; it really feels like you’re away from it all. And with all the Metanchuk. “And, of course, it’s quite beautiful.”

Its Main Street entrance is located at 39W115 Main St. in Batavia and the East Side entrance is located at 2S326 Nelson Lake Road in Batavia.

22 | July 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

LEISURE & RECREATION

She says forest preserve officials consistently receive rave reviews from those moving along the trail through Fabyan Forest Preserve, near Geneva, where visitors can enjoy the views of the historic Fabyan Windmill, Japanese Garden and Villa Museum.

But, while the trail moves through the county’s urban areas along the river, those on the trail can also enjoy long jaunts through more natural settings, including near Red Oak Nature Center in Batavia, Fox River Bluff Forest Preserve near St. Charles, and Tekakwitha Woods and Jon J. Duerr forest preserves. And that doesn’t include all of the wooded riverfront real estate in between.

From the river trail, hikers also can find their way to points east and west and further north. The Fox River Trail connects directly to the Illinois Prairie Path, which can carry hikers far into DuPage County and beyond. At its north end, the trail continues into McHenry County as the Prairie Path.

Using regional trails, hikers and others can also move west through LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

“My best recommendation?

Look up where the closest forest preserve is to you and get to know it.”

– Laurie Metanchuk of Kane County Forest Preserve

on St. Charles’ west side to connect to the Great Western Trail, which can carry travelers – roughly parallel to Route 64 – as far west as Sycamore.

“That one’s also great for a long walk, especially in the late summer, when the prairie’s in full bloom,” Metanchuk says.

At the trail’s south end, travelers can connect to the Virgil Gilman Trail and travel west through woodlands and prairie to Waubonsee Community College in Sugar Grove.

For those looking for an experience with perhaps more nature and fewer people, many of those larger trails also connect to internal trail systems within a number of the county’s forest preserve, Metanchuk says.

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“Whenever a preserve is close to a regional trail, we’ve tried to make sure they tie in,” she says.

Away from the longer trails, Metanchuk says that the forest preserve also offers extensive internal trail networks at such locations at Johnson’s Mound, near Elburn; Muirhead Springs, near Hampshire; and the Brunner Family Forest Preserve, tucked between the west bank of the Fox River and Route 31, near Carpentersville and Algonquin.

“We’ve got over 200 miles of trails for people to choose from,” Metanchuk says.

“My best recommendation? Look up where the closest forest preserve is to you and get to know it.” www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

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LEISURE & RECREATION

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | July 2016 | 23

Down on the farm HERITAGE PRAIRIE FARM PIZZA NIGHTS, THEMED DINNER PARTIES CAPTIVATE COMMUNITY

By YVONNE BENSON | Photos PROVIDED

H

eritage Prairie Farm in Elburn is a certified organic farm. Its focus has expanded beyond farming to incorporate the community through hosting public events, such as Wood Fired Pizza Nights and Farm Dinners.

The farm’s Wood Fired Pizza Nights take place from 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday evenings and run through Aug. 31. Picnic tables are scattered across the property and attendees bring blankets and chairs to relax on the lawn. The family-friendly event includes wood-fired pizzas, a magician, ice cream from a vintage Good Humor Ice Cream truck, local live music and a bar that serves beer, wine and specialty cocktails. The Wild Mushroom and BBQ pizzas are a couple of the items on the menu.

The Farm Dinners take place once a month and center around a themed, family-style menu that uses ingredients sourced by the farm and local partners.

“The dinners were just a natural evolution of what we do here at the farm and have been a part of our business since year one,” says Nathan Sumner, operations manager at Heritage Prairie Farm. “It just makes sense – we have a beautiful setting, produce great quality meat and produce, and have an incredible culinary team. With all this product and talent here at the farm, it would be a disservice to our community to not share it all with them.”

Sumner says that the Farm Dinners are his favorite events to host, but he is “partial to the summer ones as they are pure magic and only happen a few nights a year.”

“I am particularly excited about this year’s cocktail party-themed Farm Dinner in July,” He says. “This dinner is unique in that there is no five-course meal, but there is a massive amount of passed [appetizers] that are enjoyed all night long while guest visit different parts of the farm to enjoy various cocktails. If that wasn’t enough food, we cap the night off with a big ‘low-country boil,’ a Carolina-style crab boil with shrimp, sausage, corn and crab legs.”

The Farm Dinner will feature live music by Majors Junction, and all of the proceeds from the cocktail party will be donated to Bridges Academy, which Sumner says is “a really incredible local elementary school.”

“It’s going to be a fun night,” he says.

“The dinner starts with a cocktail hour and includes passed [appetizers] and an optional farm tour,” he says. “After the tour, guests take their seats and are served a five-course meal that is enjoyed family-style. When weather permits, we set up outside and enjoy a beautiful sunset and the desert course is served under string lights at dusk. Of course, there is live music to enjoy the entire time.”

The seating is communal, but – after the cocktail hour and tour – it’s normal for people who don’t know one another to socialize.

“The fact that everyone at your table came out to enjoy a delicious meal on a farm already means that you share at least some values or interests,” he says.

The food served at the dinners is sometimes grown specifically for that meal. For example, the farm once raised two pigs just for one of its pig roasts.

Guests usually wear nice jeans and buttonup shirts or sundresses. A tip for newbies wanting to attend an upcoming Farm Dinner, dress for the weather.

“A lot of planning from both the farmer and chef go into these dinners; however it is also a fun opportunity for the farmers and culinary team to improvise and collaborate … ,” says Sumner.

“While fall dinner service will usually happen in one of our heated event spaces, there is no air conditioning in the fields,” he says. “My only advice is when it comes to footwear, don’t wear anything you wouldn’t be able to walk across your backyard in, as in avoid high heels.”

Farm Dinners range in price from $75 to $90 per ticket and are all-inclusive (drinks and food). Children are welcome on the farm, but Sumner encourages families to attend a pizza night instead, because most of the Farm Dinners are for guests ages 21 and older due to the beverage pairings.

To kick things off, guests are greeted with a cocktail when they arrive. What comes next tends to follow a certain structure.

u For more information about Farm Dinners and pizza nights, visit www.heritageprairiefarm.com.

24 | July 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

DINING & ENTERTAINING

www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

“The dinners were just a natural evolution of what we do here at the farm and have been a part of our business since year one. It just makes sense – we have a beautiful setting, produce great quality meat and produce, and have an incredible culinary team. With all this product and talent here at the farm, it would be a disservice to our community to not share it all with them.”

– Nate Sumner, operations manager at Heritage Prairie Farm in Elburn

Upcoming Farm Dinner dates JULY 15: Cocktail Party with Bridges Academy AUGUST 11: Honey & Beer Farm Dinner with Revolution Brewing SEPTEMBER 8: Heirloom Farm Dinner OCTOBER 6: Roots & Wine Farm Dinner NOVEMBER 3: Friendsgiving Farm Dinner

www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

DINING & ENTERTAINING

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | July 2016 | 25

TAKE IT OUTSIDE!

Patio season heats up in Kane County

By KELSEY O’CONNOR

26 | July 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

S

ummertime in Kane County is beautiful but fleeting.

Fortunately, an abundance of outdoor eating options allow you to make the most of such a short season. From tiny sidewalk cafés to expansive beer gardens, there are plenty of outdoor patios to sip and savor in the summer sun.

patio is packed most nights. And it’s not just the views pulling people in; the food and atmosphere at Charleston on the River is more relaxed than the more upscale eateries previously seen in that location.

“We have a more approachable menu,” Taib says. “People are enjoying the patio and the scenery at an affordable price point.”

Another popular patio scene is at Two Brothers Roundhouse, 205 N. Broadway, Aurora. An outpost of the local microbrewery, the Roundhouse offers a fullservice restaurant, a coffee shop and, of course, plenty of craft brews. All can be enjoyed on the expansive brick patio, which is as picturesque as it is historic.

One of the newest outdoor hotspots is Charleston on the River,1 Illinois St., St. Charles. The casual restaurant opened in March, and serves modern American cuisine, such as burgers and sandwiches, pasta and steak. The riverside eatery, which “We are the one and only still usable debuted its wooden deck in April, offers roundhouse in the country,” says Heather panoramic views of the Fox River.

Schaffer assistant general manager at the “This is the best patio in the whole TriRoundhouse. “It’s a national historical site.”

Cities area,” says owner Marwab Taib.

Live music on Friday and Saturday nights The patio features two fire pits and an adds to the outdoor atmosphere. Artists outdoor bar. Though the restaurant has include both local and national acts that only been open a short time, Taib says the

DINING & ENTERTAINING

www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

LUNCH DINNER COCKTAILS 630.513.6300 mcnallyspub.com

109 West Main St St. Charles, IL 60174 Outoor patio at The Claddagh in Geneva.

Photo provided.

Riverside Dining PICTURESQUE

perform music from various genres, including bluegrass, acoustic, blues and more. The space also can be rented for weddings and other private events.

Visitors to The Office, 201 E. Main St., St. Charles, can enjoy eating outdoors no matter the season. The year-round patio is covered and heated during the winter. The tent usually comes down in April and is replaced by large shady umbrellas to keep guests cool.

The patio is popular throughout the year, says general manager Colm Headley, but it draws plenty of crowds in the warmer months. The 125-seat area features decorative stone work, a wooden pergola and four tables topped with flickering fire pits.

“It’s pretty vibrant,” says Headley of the patio scene at The Office, describing it as a more laidback atmosphere. “It’s a busy place for lunch, dinner and happy hour. We pretty much fill it everyday when it’s weather like this.”

-Continued on page 28

www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

31 N. River Street Batavia Has something for everyone!

630.593.6600 Fine Italian Food & Award Winning Pizza Catering for Every Taste and Budget

Pal Joey’s

paljoeys.com DINING & ENTERTAINING

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | July 2016 | 27

-Continued from page 27

20 GREAT OUTDOOR PATIOS

THE CLADDAGH IRISH PUB 1702 Commons Drive | Geneva 630-208-0337 Come for: great happy hour specials, fire pits and a water view

VILLAGE SQUIRE 480 Randall Road | South Elgin 847-931-0400 Come for: English pub-style fare and a famous Mai Tai or Rum Barrel cocktail

STOCKHOLM’S 306 W. State St. | Geneva 630-208-7070 Come for: beer flights from a local microbrewery

WILDWOOD 477 S. Third St. | Geneva 630-377-8325 Come for: Oyster Bar Thursday and an award-winning wine list

MCNALLY’S IRISH PUB 109 W. Main St. | St. Charles 630-513-6300 Come for: Guinness on a two-tiered patio overlooking First Street Plaza

THE EVERGREEN PUB & GRILL 1400 W. Main St. | St. Charles 331-901-5142 Come for: a full-service outdoor bar and new sand volleyball courts

FIORA’S RESTAURANT 317 S. Third St. | Geneva 630-262-1317 Come for: a glass of wine and peoplewatching in downtown Geneva

PRESERVATION BREAD & WINE 513 S. Third St. | Geneva 630-208-1588 Come for: a cheese plate on the cozy, tucked away patio

THE RANGE GRILL & TAP 35 N. Water St. | Batavia 630-761-0145 Come for: Friday fish fry on the screened-in porch

RIVER’S EDGE CAFE 18 W. Downer Place | Aurora 630-897-3343 Come for: specialty coffee with a river view

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28 | July 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

DINING & ENTERTAINING

Now celebrating our 10th year anniversary!

Enjoy outdoor dining this summer

VILLA VERONE 416 Hamilton St. | Geneva 630-232-2201 Come for: Italian fare in a romantic garden area

in our Dodson Place courtyard patio and waterscape or on our

COUNTRY HOUSE

3rd St. lounge patio.

2095 S. Kirk Road | Geneva 630-208-8181 Come for: hefty burgers on the rustic front porch

AURELIO’S PIZZA 330 W. State St. | Geneva 630-262-8440 Come for: a thin-crust pie and an outdoor bar

ACQUAVIVA WINERY 47W614 IL-38 | Maple Park 630-365-0333 Come for: a wine tasting on the pictureperfect terrace

TOWN HOUSE BOOKS & CAFE 105 N 2nd Ave. | St. Charles 630-584-8603 Come for: an iced coffee and a new book on the garden patio

Featuring oak-grilled steaks and chops, fresh fish and seasonal specials paired with the Fox Valley’s most awarded wine list!

Steak • Seafood • Pasta Look for our new guest rewards program and monthly promotions throughout this anniversary year!

477 S. Third St. Geneva www.wildwoodsteak.com

For Reservations Call 630.377.835

THE FILLING STATION PUB & GRILL 300 W. Main St. | St. Charles 630-584-4414 Come for: classic bar food on the large, lively patio

SALERNO’S ON THE FOX 320 N. Second St. | St. Charles 630-584-7900 Come for: a slice of pizza and some tunes along the Fox River

PUB 222 222 W. Main St. | St. Charles 630-584-4222 Come for: lively nightlife in a tucked-away courtyard

PAL JOEY’S 31 N. River St. | Batavia 630-593-6600 Come for: award-winning pan pizza and river views

Casual Dining in a Rustic Atmosphere On Featured Nights, after the ballgame, enjoy the fireworks display from our Patio.

Located across from Fifth Third Bank Stadium, at the Northeast Corner of Fabyan Pkwy & Kirk Rd

Open 7 days a week for Lunch & Dinner Ask about our catering service Online ordering is now available!

PATTEN HOUSE 124 S. 2nd St. | Geneva 630-492-5040 Come for: Cajun fare and an expansive outdoor patio and wrap-around porch

SERVING CHICAGOLAND’S FAVORITE BURGER FOR OVER 40 YEARS!

PLANNING A CELEBRATION?

We accommodate private parties

2095 S. Kirk Rd. • Geneva • (630) 208-8181 www.burgerone.com SM-CL0348927

DINING & ENTERTAINING

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | July 2016 | 29

Tiki KIND OF TOWN

TROPICAL DRINKS TO TRANSPORT YOU TO PARADISE

By KELSEY O’CONNOR You don’t have to go as far as you may think to get a taste of the islands. Several local bars and restaurants will mix up a tropical drink faster than you can say, “Aloha.”

The bar’s bestseller is the Lava Flow, a piña colada poured over pureed strawberry. Another popular option is the Funky Monkey, a banana daiquiri poured over chocolate.

Your first – and most obvious – choice for tiki drinks should be Dawn’s Beach Hut (8 N. Third St., St. Charles). The beach-themed bar has been bringing a taste of the Florida Keys to the downtown area since 2008. The space is decked out in tropical-inspired décor, including a thatch-roofed hut above the bar and a surfboard and seashells hanging from the ceiling.

“We’re different from everyone else in the area.

We’ve got the Florida Keys right here in the heart of downtown St. Charles,” says Humer.

“It’s a very accurate Florida Keys beach hut,” says owner Dawn Humer. “We’re authentic from the décor, to our music, to our drinks. Eighty percent of our business is tropical drinks.”

Szechwan’s Mai Tai, which is house-made from a secret recipe, is their most popular drink. The Flaming Volcano will definitely kick your night up a notch; it’s a Mai Tai for two, served with a flaming shot of rum in the middle.

If the atmosphere isn’t enough to make you feel like you’re on vacation, the drinks will do the trick.

Dawn’s offers a variety of fruity, frozen beverages.

Try a classic daiquiri or piña colada or sample the popular Caribbean Margarita. Take one taste and you’ll almost be able to feel the sand between your toes.

CONTINUE YOUR “ISLAND-HOPPING” ADVENTURE WITH THESE 5 LOCAL ESTABLISHMENTS u

30 | July 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

Keep the beach party going right down the street at Szechwan Restaurant (117 W. Main St., St. Charles).

The specialty drinks menu offers classic tropical options, such as the Blue Hawaii, a mix of a piña colada and Blue Curaçao.

“They’re fruity and tropical and remind you of the beach when we’re not very close to one,” says Miranda Adams, manager at Szechwan.

WOK’N FIRE

BIEN TRUCHA

THE PATTEN HOUSE

181 S. First St., St. Charles 630-444-3580 What to order: South Pacific Punch (passion fruit vodka, banana liqueur, peach liqueur, cranberry, orange and pineapple juices) or Malaysian Mai Tai (coconut rum blended with tropical juices topped with dark rum float)

410 W. State St., Geneva 630-232-2665 What to order: Flor de Jamaica (hibiscus flower extract, orange, sugar, Exotico Blanco tequila)

124 S. Second St., Geneva 630-492-5040 What to order: Cajun Hurricane (New Orleans style spiced rum, Malibu rum, passion fruit puree, lime juice, grenadine and pineapple juice)

THE TURF ROOM 1033 Kilbery Lane, North Aurora 630-906-9300 What to order: Key Lime Martini (vanilla vodka, pineapple rum, lime and pineapple juices)

DINING & ENTERTAINING

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U SAMBA? 37 W. New York St., Aurora 630-897-3903 What to order: an original, passion fruit or strawberry Caipirinha (cachaça – alcohol made from sugarcane – lime and sugar) or a coconut Batida (Smirnoff Vodka, condensed milk and sprinkles around the rim of the glass)

Live Entertainment on Sundays Serving Wine by the glass or bottle ~ Featuring Wine Slushies & Sangria ~ ~ Wine Tasting Bar Daily ~

GALENA CELLARS Vineyard & Winery 477 South Third, Suite 100 Dodson Place • Geneva • 630-232-9463

www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

DINING & ENTERTAINING

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | July 2016 | 31

Financial Corner

By Jeff Martin

Free Advice Financial firms are offering free portfolio management services. Your first question should be, how are they making money. They could be using their firms funds to implement your portfolio or using funds that pay their firm for selling the fund. Either way, you have to wonder if you are getting the best advice or the advice that is most profitable for them.

You should also consider what services are included. Will they help you maximize your social security income? Do they help you plan your retirement income? Will they answer questions in other financial areas such as mortgages, loans and insurance?

Will they be there to help you through the inevitable down markets when it is easy to let your emotions take

Now!

CAR SHOWS on Mondays in St. Charles

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irreversible, harm to your retirement plans?

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32 | July 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

DINING & ENTERTAINING

way you know exactly what you are paying and what services are included.

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www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

Women of Distinction identifies women who have made a difference in Kane County and who are representative role models as leaders in their fields and communities. Honorees will be profiled in the Kane County Magazine’s October issue and recognized at an awards luncheon on October 26, 2016.

Please fill out the form online (preferred method) by visiting www.kcchronicle.com/magazine/distinction or fill in the form below (use additional space for nominee description) and return by July 29, 2016.

NOMINEE’S NAME

TITLE

NOMINEE

COMPANY

ADDRESS

EMAIL

BUSINESS PHONE

DEADLINE FOR NOMINATION: July 29, 2016

Achievements: Please list additional background information (career milestones; individual achievements, volunteerism, philanthropic work). On a separate piece of paper, explain why you think this person is a Woman of Distinction. Submit your nomination online at

www.kcchronicle.com/magazine/distinction

__________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________

Fax: 630-444-1645 Mail: 333 N Randall Road, Suite 2 St. Charles, Il 60174 Attn: Kelly Buchanan Email: kbuchanan@threesixtybluesky.com

NOMINATOR

__________________________________________________________________________________________________

NOMINATOR’S NAME

PHONE NUMBER

EMAIL

NOMINATOR’S RELATIONSHIP TO NOMINEE

Thank you to our 2016 sponsors:

BUILDING A REPUTATION Construction company president Doris Procaccio finds success in male-dominated industry

By MELISSA RUBALCABA RISKE As a child, Doris Procaccio used to love to tag along with her father on weekends. In order to support his family of 10, her father, Galvino, would do side jobs as a handyman for extra income. Electrical, plumbing, construction and general home repairs filled the day as Procaccio paid close attention to his work and methods.

by her fellow board members, who represent commercial, residential and industrial contractors in a range of trades.

“He was really good at what he did,” Procaccio says. “I used to be a sidekick. I loved it.”

Procaccio was working in the human resources department of a large construction company in Florida when Hurricane Andrew destroyed thousands of homes in the Miami area in 1992. She and her husband, Antonio, who also worked in the construction field, realized that there was an opportunity to launch their own construction company.

As a woman in command in the construction industry, it hasn’t been an easy road. More than a few times Procaccio, who is petite in stature, has had to prove she knows her stuff.

“Women are more than capable of having significant roles in the construction industry.

All we need is to be given an opportunity,” says Procaccio, a wife and mother of two. “Or – at a certain point – you may have to stand up and push your way in.”

It’s with that belief that the Procaccio Painting and Drywall Company owner makes it a priority to take time to mentor other women in the construction industry. She also lends her voice and opinions by serving on local and national boards, such as the Northern Illinois Painting and Drywall Institute Board of Directors, and she also is an officer with the board of directors of the Finishing Contractors Association of Illinois.

“It is a chance for me to make a difference in our industry as a whole,” Procaccio says.

Mark Palmer, executive director for the Finishing Contractors Association of Illinois, says that Procaccio’s perspective is valued

Photo by Ron McKinney

She never imagined that her interest in home repairs and construction would one day translate into a role as president of one of the state’s top construction companies.

“When she speaks and offers her opinions and offers her advice it is based on a lot of knowledge and a lot of experience,” Palmer says of Procaccio. “When she talks, the other guys listen.”

“I always knew one day I would own my own business,” Procaccio says.

Procaccio would handle all of the administrative issues – employment, payrolls and accounting – while her husband handled the sales side of things. It was a great partnership. The company earned a reputation for solid, high-quality work and expertise in specialty finishes, spurring enormous success, Procaccio says.

In 1998, the pair decided to return to the Chicago area when an opportunity to relocate was offered to them. With the housing boom and a reputation for high-quality work, the company grew quickly.

A few years later, Procaccio’s husband became ill. After much discussion, she made the decision to take sole ownership of the company. She recalls the moment as being scary, as Procaccio worried if she would be able to handle all of the responsibilities.

When the housing market began to downshift Procaccio took the company in a new direction,

leaving residential construction for commercial and industrial construction. The shift proved to be a good decision. And, while Procaccio Painting and Drywall is a smaller company – about 150 employees – Procaccio says that the company navigated the economic challenges of the time and continues to be a success.

For Procaccio, quality construction is only one component of running a successful construction business. She makes a point to recognize talented employees and support continued education.

“We’re a team,” Procaccio says. “I need to be able to acknowledge talent and hold on to those people. That combination keeps our company moving forward.”

HEALING SPACE 2075 Foxfield Road, Suite 102, St. Charles, IL 60174

www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

BUSINESS & CIVIC

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | July 2016 | 35

LOCAL DEALS ON Packages for

Save 50% off Gelato through 7/31/16 by showing your receipt from your Double Yolk purchase!

Bridal Groups All guest rooms include a Complimentary Hot Breakfast.

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1555 Butterfield Rd, Unit 123 Aurora, IL 60502 630-299-3429 • pub56.com

VISIT PUB56.COM TO SEE ALL OF OUR DAILY SPECIALS! Bring in this coupon for

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if you register to join our email club with purchase of entree!

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11 NORTH THIRD STREET | DOWNTOWN ST. CHARLES

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valid through 07/31/2016 Not valid with any other offers, coupons, gift cards or sale items

Store Hours

www.heinzbrothers.com

M-F Sat Sun

9am-6pm 9am-5pm 10am-4pm

EXPERIENCE

the difference

We now offer Adult Day Care

Where our residents are respected, valued and nurtured by our senior care specialists.

• Residential Townhomes • Assisted Living • Memory Loss Care • Respite and Short Term Stay • Adult Daycare Delnor Glen — where our experience is the difference.

For more information or to schedule a tour call 630-443-8220 (TTY #630-933-4833) or visit delnorglen.com

Delnor Glen Senior Living a part of Northwestern Medicine

975 North Fifth Avenue, St. Charles, IL “When we moved (our Mother) to Delnor Glen she was quite frail. That she thrived in the atmosphere you have created for all of the residents is surely an understatement… There is no doubt in our minds that the atmosphere you provided had a lot to do with her longevity. Not only do you provide your residents with beautiful physical surroundings, but the level of care and the empathy of the staff shown to the resident is unparalleled.” -family of Alice

NATURAL BEAUTY

GREEN ENVEE BRINGS ORGANIC REMEDIES TO DOWNTOWN GENEVA

By ELIZABETH HARMON | Photos by JOE PEREZ

As children, cousins Bob Weiss and Tim Kundinger formed a strong bond. As adults, the duo formed a partnership in a thriving business.

Their company, Green Envee Organics, is both a skin care product line sold online, and now is a retail boutique in downtown Geneva.

Weiss and Kundinger hope to use their shop to help reconnect customers with the healing powers of nature.

“Today, technology has taken us further away from nature,” says Weiss. “We want to replenish people, by bringing nature closer to their lives, through botanical products, essential oils and earth offerings.”

The company’s skin care, body care and professional products are manufactured in Frankfort, using organic, fair trade and wildcrafted ingredients sourced from 26 countries.

The cousins became close while spending time on their grandparents’ farm near Marshfield, Wisconsin, though both spent much of their childhood in suburban Chicago. Weiss studied chemistry at Purdue University and settled in the area, while Kundinger, his wife and young children moved back to Wisconsin. Weiss visited frequently, and on a visit seven years ago, Kundinger told him about a painful skin condition from which his infant daughter was suffering.

The effect was immediate.

“She was in terrible pain with cracked, bleeding skin,” Kundinger says. “The stuff [the] doctor recommended left her red as a tomato.”

Today, the company serves both individual consumers and about 150 spas. Opening the retail store seemed like a logical next step, they both agreed.

Using their knowledge of natural remedies, Kundinger and Weiss decided to create a more gentle and effective treatment.

“We knew that certain plants, such as myrrh, frankincense, lavender and sandalwood, can survive in dry climates – thought these might “All our products are plant based and we have a work well. Through use of resins and saps we passion to make sure our products are safe clean created a lotion,” Weiss says. and effective,” Weiss says.

38 | July 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

FASHION & BEAUTY

“Within two days, her skin had returned to a normal color. After daily applications for several years, the scars disappeared,” says Kundinger.

Family members began requesting remedies for other conditions and, soon, the cousins began selling their lotions at craft fairs. Seeing the potential to create a full-time business, the duo launched Green Envee Organics in 2007.

In addition to carrying the company’s online products, the store also will offer an aromatherapy bar, where customers can smell various essential oils and customize the scents of Green Envee products they purchase. While scent is an important component in Green Envee’s products, Weiss and Kundinger are quick to differentiate between scents distilled from www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

Women’s Clothing Boutique in Downtown Geneva

Have a Stylish Summer in Evernia Fashion HOURS: TUESDAY-SATURDAY 10-5 | SUNDAY 12-4 | CLOSED MONDAY 630 457 5445 ~ 219 W. STATE ST, GENEVA like us on

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essential oils and chemically-synthesized fragrance.

In addition to eschewing artificial fragrances, Green Envee products also are free from “the Toxic 29” – 29 ingredients commonly used in commercial skin care products, including animal fats, formaldehyde and synthetic dyes that are carcinogenic or present other health hazards.

F R E S H

17 S. Third Street

B O T A N I C

S K I N

+

B O D Y

Geneva, IL 60134

630-423-7140

“We want to be able to help people with their ailments, educate and guide them,” says Kundinger.

The shop also will offer classes on aromatherapy, as well as community outreach events.

“We have a passion to work with kids, and would love to host Scouts and other groups,” Weiss says. “We want to talk with them about the places our products are grown and help them create something to take home.”

www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

FASHION & BEAUTY

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | July 2016 | 39

Crystal Lake...One of the Top 10 *Best Small Cities in the U.S. We Have it All!

Now Open: Jori & June

~ All Kinds of Unique Stores ~ Restaurants, Cafes and Coffee Shops

25 S Third St., Geneva, IL, 60134 630-457-5505 www.joriandjune.com

~ Arts, Theater and Culture

The Fun Never Ends in Downtown Crystal Lake

The Jori & June girl is who we are - we find items that we can see ourselves wearing. Things that are practical, comfortable, unique, and affordable (With a mix of must have splurge items of course).

*2015 Wallet Hub

Our goal is to provide you with an experience.

Who is Jori? She is more simple, chic and basic. She seeks the items that are universal and plain - but will dress it up with accessories.

Who is June? She is more of a free spirit - she will not shy away from patterns or colors.

She sometimes is a little more daring and has a little bit of an "edgy" side.

A Premier Illinois Main Street Community

Downtown Crystal Lake /Main Street SM-CL0377418

Plan your day with a visit to our website: www.DowntownCL.org

Hamilton House DENTISTRY Trust

You will receive exceptional caree and feel at home in our warm and calming environment.

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SERVICES • Cosmetic & General Dentistry

• Second Opinions Given • Sleep Apnea Solutions

• Dentures & Repairs

• Tooth Whitening!

• Extractions & Implant

• Kids Welcome

309 Hamilton St., Suite C Geneva 630-232-1111

View our Special Offers at www.HamiltonHouseDental.com 40 | July 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

FASHION & BEAUTY

www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

As if sweating weren’t enough…water, mud, chalk and more are new elements being added to area obstacle course races. By YVONNE BENSON | Photos PROVIDED Mud runs, color runs and obstacle courses seem to be all of the rage these days.

Douglas Milewski is the Marketing and Communications Coordinator for the AID (Association for Individual Development) Color Burst 5k Fun Run and Roll in Aurora.

He described how participants will be covered from head to toe this race: “There will be three ‘Color Burst’ stations during the 5k in which volunteers throw color dust (food-grade cornstarch and color dye) on the participants, as well as a ‘send-off’ color explosion at the start of the race where participants will throw provided packets of color dust in the air.”

The Jack Axe Games in St. Charles are more competitive and even have special training events to teach competitors specialized skills.

“We have training things like the axe throw and the caber toss from the Scottish Highland Games,” says Eric Klein, the president of the President of All Things Super Cool and Kick Axe. “People don’t know how to throw those things. Not a lot of people have those skills so we’ll have some training events so people know how to do it.”

Klein says that the Jack Axe Games are inspired by the Scottish Highland Games and that the goal isn’t necessarily to become a mud monster. “We have crawling things and when you get near the finish, there’s a water hole that you jump in and, after that, there’s

a mud cliff you have to climb up about 10-15 feet with a rope followed by a cargo net. We put it at the finish because we didn’t want people to have to run around too wet and muddy.”

Another race that involves mud but isn’t all about getting dirty is the Great Amazing Race.

Greg Benton is the Race Director. “We have obstacles where you will get wet but it’s not a messy, muddy race. Usually people wear normal gym clothes - shorts and shirt and running shoes. You’d wear what you wear for a 5k race but not your best shoes,” he says.

The focus on their race is about teamwork, says Benton. “Our race is a team race - a race with two people. There might be an adult and a child, grandparents and grandkids, we run the gamut. We set up eight stations and each station requires them to work together to complete the task. It’s a family friendly race and it takes about an hour to complete the course,” says Benton.

There are dozens of races available in Illinois this year. They range from highly competitive to just for fun. There are inflatable obstacle courses for kids and even boot camp-style events for people who want to challenge themselves personally. Then there are other races where you dress up like superheroes!

There’s a lot of fun out there and a lot of it is within an hour drive Kane County.

-Continued on page 42

-Continued from page 41

for Massage

Therapy

Your health is in my hands!

630.605.7591 ~ Geneva www.paulinemassage.com pauline.massage@comcast.net

Are You An

Artist?

See your work in the pages of Suburban Life Magazine!

To submit an entry to Artist Showcase email artwork, title of piece, name and village of residence of artist, a two-to three-sentence description of the piece, short bio and artist photo to KaneCountyMagazine@shawmedia.com, subject head “Local Artist Submission.”

Here’s a list of upcoming obstacle styled races in and around Kane County: ¢ THE GREAT AMAZING RACE ADVENTURE July 9 | Aurora This is a team challenge race where each obstacle requires two people. The teams can be children and adults, children and children or adults and adults. Folks can bring used sneakers to be donated for the fight against pediatric cancer and in return participants are given two minutes off of their finishing time. The course is dirty and wet so be prepared. www.greatamazingrace.com

¢ TANDEM RACE July 16 | Joliet/Wilmington This is a 5K obstacle course race designed for teams of two people. Some of the obstacles involve water and mud – specifically the possibility of falling into water or mud. There are three levels of difficulty and the race is spectator friendly.

There’s food, music and games. tandemrace.com

¢ SAVAGE RACE

Food That Lifts You Up 1519 EEast astt Ma as Main in S tree tr eett ee 1519 Street

630.492.0134 630.492.0134

www. ww w.bo w. body bo dyfu dy fuel fu elby el byda by dana da nare na rene re nee. ne e.co e. com co m www.bodyfuelbydanarenee.com

““Fuel Fuel yyour our bbody ody w with ith tthe he nnutrients utrients iitt ccraves!” !”

July 30 | Spring Grove Savage Race is definitely a muddy race.

They even claim that you get mud in your underwear! The focus of this race is on challenging obstacles – so challenging that there is only about an 80% completion rate.

It’s about fun, achieving personal goals and teamwork. savagerace.com

¢ DIRTY GIRL MUD RUN August 6 | Ottawa This race is about a muddy, three mile course with 14 obstacles for women. It’s non-competitive and requires little to no special training; in fact, you can even skip obstacles if you feel uncomfortable about them. Females as young as 14 years old are welcome to participate. godirtygirl.com/chicago-2016/

¢ MUD RUN

New M N Menu EEvery W Week! k! | O Order. d Pi Pick-Up. kU H Heat. EEat.t RRepeat.t Check website for details Save time grocery shopping, planning meals and cooking for the week.

Enjoy Gourmet meals with your family and on-the-go!

High Quality, Locally Sourced Protein. Nutrient-Rich Vegetables.

Gluten Free. Nut Free. Allergy Friendly. No added sugars or artificial sweeteners. Low-Glycemic. Easily Digestible Carbohydrates.

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42 | July 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

SUBURBAN FIT

August 6 | Lake Villa The Mud Run is designed to get dirty and have fun with friends and family. It’s sponsored by the Lindenhurst and Lake Villa Chamber of Commerce in support of their scholarship fund. This is their fourth year having this race and they know how to do it well. www.llvchamber.com/mud/

¢ TERRAIN MUD RUN August 20 | Joliet This race offers the choice of either a 5 or 10K with over 20 obstacles. There’s also a smaller course for children as young as 7 years old. They know you’re going to get dirty (and even suggest that you bring shoes that can be trashed) so they provide free showers for participants after they complete the course. The course is easy enough for anyone to complete; however, being able to do things like pull-ups and situps will help in completing obstacles faster.

¢ RUGGED MANIAC 5K OBSTACLE RACE

Youth Triathlon

Sat • July 23 • 8:30am James O. Breen Community Park • St. Charles

Kid-friendly, kid distances & kids only!

August 27 | Joliet This is a dirty, fun and challenging 5K obstacle course. The obstacles require some daring and skill including swinging from monkey rings, balancing and using a trampoline. People as young as 14 years old can participate and teams are welcome. ruggedmaniac.com

SWIM the Crayfish Canal at Otter Cove, BIKE a closed parking lot course in the park and RUN the trails/grass.

Race distances vary per age group. This is a Chronomix timed event. Awards presented to the top athletes. Goody bag includes race t-shirt and much more!

September 10 | St. Charles The Jack Axe Games is a high-stakes obstacle course race inspired by the Scottish Highland Games. There’s quite a lot involved in the games including an obstacle course race, tournament, an obstacle course for children, and a festival with food, beer and entertainment. The obstacle course is compact over only 1.5 miles so that it’s very spectator friendly. The cash prizes for winners are as great as $2,500, rewarding only the fastest competitors. www.jackaxe.com

HA R L

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Perfect for beginner and experienced competitors!

CT

¢ JACK AXE GAMES

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September 10 | Grayslake This race is built for mud and fun. One way that they promote that is by keeping teams together so that they can build comradery and laugh. There’s music, beer and stuff for kids. They would use the word obstacle course but they prefer to say amusement park instead. They also provide showers for cleaning up afterward. main.nationalmssociety.org

ST

¢ MUCKFEST MS

DISTR

I

Ages 5-15 Registration Fee:

Competition Groups: Ages 5-7 / Ages 8-10 / Ages 11-15

$40 per child (Early Bird Rate until July 10) $60 per child (July 11-23)

A great way to stay active and have fun!

For more info or to register, visit ottercove.org SUBURBAN FIT

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | July 2016 | 43

Teachers Reach Their PEAK With New Fitness Studio

By ELIZABETH HARMON Photos by JENNIFER KAYE

For Kimber McCue and Liz Peterson, both elementary school teachers in St. Charles School District 303, educating others doesn’t end at the classroom door.

Since November, 2015, the women – both fitness instructors in their off-hours – have been co-owners of PEAK Fitness Studio in downtown St. Charles. The same passion they bring to teaching children infuses their work with studio clients.

“I try to instill the idea that they are here to do something for themselves. I love to see someone come in after they’ve had a crummy day and leave with a changed outlook. It’s a good mental release,” says McCue, who is also a kindergarten teacher at Munhall School.

“We’re helping people learn to care for themselves, and understand that the hour they spend here will give them the energy and health to be a better man or woman, parent, employee or whatever it is they need to be,” says Peterson, a fourth-grade teacher at Anderson.

The studio offers a variety of classes, taught by certified instructors, designed to appeal to women and men, from kids to adults.

44 | July 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

In addition to yoga and barre, PEAK has added TRX, Tabata and boot camp classes. Clients love the variety and are open to trying any of the classes, says Peterson. “They look at the schedule for what’s offered at the time they can come, so it’s basically about what fits into their day.”

there are new offerings, such as PEAKFlow, a power Vinyasa yoga class for both yoga novices, and advanced students, and PEAK Kids Yoga, which uses visual imagery, breathing exercises, and yoga poses to help kids gain a deeper sense of themselves, manage stress, improve physical fitness, and have fun.

In addition, the women have been happy to see their studio become a place where clients can relax and socialize after their work-outs. There’s a kids play area, comfortable seating and even a boutique which carries exercise clothing, jewelry, essential oils and more. “The fact that people like to hang around and talk is very Tabata, a high intensity interval training work-out important to us,” McCue says.

While it’s been a hectic eight months since the alternates periods of strength and cardiovascular exercise and rest. Tabata works all the two opened PEAK last November, running a fitness studio has been the fulfillment of a longbody’s muscle groups, using light to medium weights, as well as the body’s own resistance, to time goal, ever since Peterson and McCue met while teaching at a different studio. When that strength the body and improve bone density. studio shut its doors last fall, they decided to Boot Camp classes offer strength and cardio take the plunge. work-outs designed by each instructor, and are TRX is a suspension training program that originated with Navy SEALs and uses gravity to develop strength, balance and flexibility. Taught in a group class, “it uses your body weight to increase or decrease the difficulty of the exercises. It’s a full-body work out that focuses on core strength and alignment,” says Peterson.

intended to get the most out of your exercise time.

Even within the familiar areas of yoga and barre,

SUBURBAN FIT

“We’d had conversations about opening our own studio, and then this kind of fell into our laps. It seemed like God’s way of saying to us, ‘here it is, ladies!’” McCue says. www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

                        

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MCCue had previous experience owning a business, as did Peterson’s husband. In Fact, Peterson already had developed a business plan, which she was able to draw upon when they opened PEAK. “It wasn’t a fly-by-theseat of your pants situation. We already had put a lot of thought into the idea behind the business,” Peterson says.

                                 

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The two continue to teach school fulltime and are also mothers with busy kids.

Balancing all of it means depending on each other, their families, and the PEAK studio staff. “When things don’t turn out the way you expect, you just have to take a deep breath and remember why we’re doing this,” Peterson says.

“We’re both very goal-oriented and that’s helped us deal with some of the hiccups along the way. We have a very good partnership and if we didn’t, we wouldn’t be as successful as we’ve been. We care for each other,” McCue says.

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Rocktown R ktt Ad Adventures t A Aurora 107 Spruce St. Aurora, IL 60506 | 630-506-5706 www.RocktownAdventures.com SUBURBAN FIT

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | July 2016 | 45

5K FUN FILLS THE SUMMER Lookingfor a way to burn off some steam, and some calories this summer? Try a 5K! These running and walking events are gaining popularity in our communitites and many are offered to benefit a great local cause. Here’s a list of 5Ks and similar events around the area this summer.

JULY 4 | GREAT WESTERN FREEDOM 4 4-Mile Run, 2-Mile Walk, Kids Dash LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve near the Big Red Barn in St. Charles Proceeds benefits Lazarus House. www.LazarusHouseOnline.com JULY 27 | SUMMER SUNSET 5K AND YOUTH RACES Youth Mile, Junior Jog, Toddler Trot and 5K Geneva Community High School Complex Geneva A portion of the proceeds will benefit Fox River Trail Runners Youth Scholarship Fund. www.FoxRiveTrailRunners.org.

DITCH THE COVER UP THIS SUMMER

AUGUST 6 | RUN FOR THE RIVERFRONT 5K/10K and One Mile Fun Run Mooseheart campus | North Aurora Proceeds benefit North Aurora River District Alliance. www.RunForTheRiverfront.com AUGUST 21 | AURORA DUATHLON 2-mile Run, 20K Bike, 2-Mile run Blackberry Farms Park 100 South Barnes | Aurora www.FoxValleyParkDistrict.org AUGUST 21 | GET YOUR REAR IN GEAR 5K Run/Walk Prairie View Grade School | Elgin Proceeds benefit Colon Cancer Coalition Events.GetYourRearInGear.com AUGUST 22 | ELBURN DAY’S 5K AND 1-MILE FUN RUN/WALK Lions Park | 500 Filmore St. | Elburn www.ElburnLions.com AUGUST 28 | HALF MADNESS HALF MARATHON Downtown Batavia Proceeds will support Batavia Food Pantry and Batavia Fourth of July Committee.

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46 | July 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

SUBURBAN FIT

SEPTEMBER 3 | 18TH ANNUAL ROMP IN THE PARK 5K Run, 2 Mile Walk/Run Maple Park, IL MapleGroveFunFest.com SEPTEMBER 10 | DASH IN THE DARK 5K Evening 5K Pottawatamie Park | 8 North Ave. | St. Charles DashInTheDark5K.com

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SEPTEMBER 24 | RUN FOREST RUN! 5K and 10K Run Oakhurst Forest Preserve | Aurora A portion of the proceeds will benefit War Dogs Making it Home and the Midwest Shelter for Homeless Veterans. www.RunForestRunFunRun.com SEPTEMBER 25 | TRICK OR TROT 10K, 5K and Monster Mash Youth Dash Kane County Courthouse 100 S. Third St. | Geneva www.WCDF.org OCTOBER 1 | 13TH ANNUAL MONTGOMERY 5K AND 10K RIVER RUN 5K and 10K Run/Walk along the Fox River Montgomery email: lange@CI.Montgomery.il.us OCTOBER 1 | NAMI 5K RUN FOR MENTAL HEALTH 5K Run/Walk along the Fox River Trail Downtown Batavia Proceeds will benefit the local chapter of National Alliance of Mental Illness (NAMI). www.Nami5K.com OCTOBER 2 | HISTIO HEROES 5K 5K Run, Little Heroes Hop for children Batavia Proceeds benefit the Histiocytosis Association. events.histio.org.

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SEASONAL RENEWAL How to access your inner spark

Summer is a season that virtually bursts with vitality.

The days seem to stretch and are long, sunny and warm. Birds sing for us. Gardens thrive and provide a bounty of fresh foods, beauty and colorful flowers. The natural world seems to come alive, and it is a great time for us to join the party and access more of our natural well-being.

We, too, have an inner vitality (or life force) that is available to us as a resource to fuel the body, soothe the mind and provide us with inspiration, satisfaction and good health.

Often, we get busy with work, develop poor habits and become crippled by worry; that’s

50 | July 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

FAMILY in FOCUS

when our vitality starts to recede. When we have an illness or health issue, it is our inner vitality that provides the remedy.

Instead of living in your own head and being consumed by self talk, take a cue from nature and access more of your inner spark.

First, take a good look at the balance in your life. If your work is demanding, try fitting in some calming moments during the workday and fully let go of work when you leave the office. Take some time to play and engage in activities that make your heart sing.

Meditation and mindfulness directly strengthen your inner vitality. Try a simple, five-minute meditation in the morning and

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Marilyn Mitchell, M.D. in the early evening to quiet the mind and allow your inner vitality to expand.

Take time to stop and breathe throughout the day. Did you notice that you hold your breath when your busy or stressed?

Mindfulness is the practice of being fully present in the moment and is most easily achieved by activating all five senses while engaging in an activity. This quiets and focuses the mind and can bring peace to any situation.

Sleep and relaxation are vital for restoring balance to the body, mind and spirit. Seven to eight hours of uninterrupted sleep at night is optimal for health. Taking time to relax throughout the day can help increase your energy level and it can improve mental clarity. Take a mental check of the places where you hold muscular tension in your body and intentionally relax.

Healthy foods fuel vitality. Each body has unique needs, but fresh, unprocessed foods are the most energizing. Be sure to drink plenty of fresh water.

Movement and play increase vitality.

Exercise that you look forward to is the best for health.

And, finally, don’t go it alone. Provide yourself with support. Get help from a health practitioner, energy healer or integrative nutritionist can be just what you need to overcome any health obstacles.

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KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | July 2016 | 51

Stop and smell the roses with MEAGAN PROVENCHER

When I add roses to a garden design, I’m often met with strong objection or a “deer in headlights” look. For some reason, roses scare people, yet they are the most popular cut flower in the world and one of the easiest plants to grow in our area.

I think one of the reasons roses get a bad rap is because there are some types that can be difficult to grow. However, plant breeders have long since messed with the genes of roses and created many types that are easy, tough, disease and bug resistant, floriferous and even fragrant.

Shrub roses are just as easy as a typical lilac or spirea and often reward the gardener with flowers from May to October with very little care.

Here are a few of my favorites to help you find the perfect rose to introduce into your garden: KNOCKOUT. This family of roses is so easy to grow it should be criminal. Compact plants reward

52 | July 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

HOME & LIFESTYLE

with different shades of pink flowers all summer long. Disease resistant, Japanese beetle free and hardy. It’s an excellent shrub form.

EASY ELEGANCE. Its tagline is “all of the beauty, none of the work” and for good reason. Hardy, disease free, floriferous and beautiful colors. “Sunrise Sunset” is my favorite, but there are many others that are worthy of consideration.

DRIFT ROSES. These hybrids, between groundcover roses and miniature roses, reward the gardener with hundreds of blooms all summer long. Only growing to about 2 to 3 feet tall, they are excellent for front of the border. Easy to maintain, tough as nails and they have lots of colors. www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

91 Years A Growing Legacy Quality Plants, Professional Service & Expert Advice . . . Since 1925

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DAVID AUSTIN. A luxurious old-rose fragrance combines with the hardiness of modern shrub roses. They are excellent as climbers and great as shrubs in the garden.

Visit Wasco Nursery to find beautiful flowers and foliage to add color and interest to your home.

HYBRID TEA. These are the divas of the rose world. They come in gorgeous colors, have long stems and huge flowers – similar to florist roses – but they require just a pinch more care. Feed them frequently with rose food and mulch in the winter to guarantee success.

Shrub roses are excellent sources of color in the garden. Use them in mass for extraordinary color or as a specimen to have for cutting. There is little need for pruning, other than cutting back in the spring, and they need to be deadheaded periodically.

They should be fertilized once a month during the growing season. Throw a bucket of mulch around their bases in November.

(No rose cones! No need for ugly Styrofoam in the yard.) If the rabbits eat them down in the winter, they’ve done you a favor, so you don’t have to prune them back in spring.

Shrub roses will come back from the bottom so they are an excellent choice for areas with rabbit issues.

Just think, once you introduce these beauties into your garden, you’ll be able to literally stop and smell the roses! You’ll be glad you did.

Meagan Provencher is the Sr. Landscape Designer for Wasco Nursery & Garden Center. She is the 2016 Illinois Certified Nursery Professional of the Year. She can be reached at 630-584-4424 or design@wasconursery. www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

Locally grown trees, shrubs, evergreens, perennials and a knowledgeable staff to assist you.

Brightly colored hanging baskets, containers, geraniums, annuals, and tropical plants.

Unique garden décor including glazed, cast stone and terra cotta pottery; decorative ironwork; statuary and fountains.

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41W781 Route 64 | St. Charles | 630-584-4424 | wasconursery.com HOME & LIFESTYLE

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | July 2016 | 53

SET THE SCENE Create an inviting space for alfresco entertaining With NANCY WINGREN

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Short on space? A few square inches can go a ¢ COLORFUL DECOR fter spending the winter long way. Tight budget? Work with what you This year’s trendy outdoor fabrics have indoors, it doesn’t take already own. No garden or greenery? No big deal. something for everyone, from bright, bold colors to warm, subdued hues. Look for quatrefoil prints much to compel us to This summer, add bright bands of color and and wide stripes, bold throw pillows, rugs and patterns, warming fire elements and multiuse venture outside – to bask under accent pieces. Move beyond the simple grill out umbrellas. Carry color themes throughout the sunny skies or gather with friends back by using cooking accessories that extend space by interspersing planters and ottomans with foundational pieces. for cool, conversation-filled nights. beyond your indoor kitchen. are a few options to help get your backyard, ¢ FIRE ELEMENTS If you’re planning to dine, entertain Here Cozy flames aren’t just for the colder months patio or deck ready for outdoor living this – or for fire pits situated in the center of your summer. or lounge outside, then it’s time backyard. Fire pit tables incorporate the warmth to rethink how your outdoor living ¢ ACCENT SEATING and coziness associated with a fire pit but at a Similar to indoor seating, outdoor accent chairs smaller, more dinner-appropriate size. Propane space looks and feels. add visual interest to a space while also creating extra seating for entertaining. Accent chairs come in many different styles and materials, and you can choose to have cushions or not, depending on the style of chair.

54 | July 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

HOME & LIFESTYLE

fire pit tables come in dining and even small, accent-size styles, and they are augmented by well-placed torches surrounding the perimeter of a patio. Have no room for a fire pit table? Try portable tabletop fire elements that look great wherever you place them.

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The outdoor cooking is moving from simple, free-standing grills to built-in barbecue areas and pizza ovens. Additional outdoor appliances include side burners, beverage centers, refrigerators, ice machines, dry storage pantries and trash centers. These details can help make an outdoor cooking space more complete and closer to a fully functioning kitchen.

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From bright, colorful, whimsical themes to subdued, attractive china-like designs, today’s melamine is durable yet fashionable and will add a fresh look and feel for a special occasion or everyday dining.

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Don’t discount hanging out up front, porches and entryways are back in play.

Classic furniture – such as Adirondack chairs, porch swings and benches, as well as colorful planters – create strong curb appeal while also giving your house a distinctive presence.

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KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | July 2016 | 55

Geneva Arts Fair finds are one-of-akind

By WENDY FOSTER | Photos PROVIDED

Each year, the annual Geneva Arts Fair attracts an impressive crowd.

“We only focus on the art and the community,” says festival coordinator Erin Melloy of EM Events. “We don’t have music or outside food vendors. We don’t even allow sponsor booths. … We focus on the art and on the community.”

The tactic seems to work, as the Geneva Arts Fair – which will take place Saturday, July 23, and Sunday, July 24, in downtown Geneva – has been named one of the top 200 art festivals in the country, based on the number of sales, says Melloy.

The Geneva Chamber of Commerce runs the annual juried event, which will be celebrating its 15th anniversary this year.

“We strive for variety,” says Melloy. “We limit by medium, so you won’t find too much of any one category.”

Rush says that there’s something for everyone and a range of price points.

“You can spend thousands of dollars on a piece of art, or can buy a $50 pair of earrings and, either way, walk away with one of a kind, original art,” Rush says.

“The Chamber was looking to do something to bring people into town, in between Swedish Visitors enjoy the opportunity to visit with the Days in June and the Festival of the Vine in artists and learn about the artwork they’ve September,” says Laura Rush, communications purchased. manager of Geneva Chamber of Commerce.

“The artists are all there and can talk about Geneva affords the perfect setting for the the history of the piece,” Rush says. “There’s art festival, along four blocks of the historic a back-story to everything. It’s interesting to downtown. hear the story about the piece, and why it was created.”

“We typically have 155 to 160 artist each year – that’s the number that the street can hold,” says Rush. “It goes from James Street to South Street. Four blocks of artists on both sides of the street.

Melloy takes great pride in the originality and diversity of the show each year. Unlike most community art shows, the Geneva Arts Fair strictly prohibits reproductions.

“Ours is an original-only art festival, which makes it unique,” says Melloy. “When patrons purchase art at the Geneva Arts Fair, it’s guaranteed to truly be one-of-a-kind. And because the artists are constantly creating, there’s always new and great work. Even if the artist has been at the festival in the past, they’re bringing new works that haven’t been brought before.”

The show will include painting, sculpture, ceramics, jewelry, fiber and more.

56 | July 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

OUT & ABOUT

The Geneva Arts Fair also is a family-friendly event.

“Area residents ride their bikes [to the downtown area]; families walk up and down the street browsing and shopping,” Rush says, adding that, every year, a kids area – located on the corner of Franklin and Third streets – features a new project for kids to try.

The art festival draws all types of people and is a popular event.

“Our crowds are amazing,” says Melloy. “We have never struggled for crowds.”

The 2016 Geneva Arts Fair will take place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, July 23, and Sunday, July 24, in downtown Geneva. For more information visit www.GenevaChamber. com.

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KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | July 2016 | 57

STAR-SPANGLED SUMMER Park it at Pottawatomie for the Fourth of July

O

n Monday, July 4, when the sun goes down, the night sky will light up with an ooh- and ahh-worthy festival of color at Pottawatomie Park in downtown St. Charles.

But patrons don’t have to wait until dusk to enjoy Fourth of July festivities at Pottawatomie Park. The park opens at 8 a.m., so why not make a day of it.

Picnic tables will be available on a first-come/first-served basis, so it is strongly suggested that patrons bring their own tables, blankets and lawn chairs. Children can enjoy scrambling over the multi-level play area, which features a treehouse, climbing walls, bridges and covered chutes and slides.

The golf course will open at 6 a.m. with the last tee time at 4 p.m.

River View Miniature Golf is located on the banks of the Fox River, providing a picturesque setting for a little put-put golf with friends and

family before fireworks. The last tee-off time is 7 p.m. The cost to play 18 holes is $6 for general admission (ages 16 and older); $5 for children ages 6 to 15; and $2 for children ages 5 and younger. Refreshments, such as hot dogs, bratwursts, popcorn and ice cream, will be available until 9:15 p.m.

Cool off during the day by visiting Swanson Pool, which will be open from 12:30 to 6 p.m. with an admission fee of $7 for residents and $10 for non-residents.

As day-time activities wind down, Shout Out, a band that covers both today’s hits and the classics, will take the stage at 6 p.m. in the historic pavilion. The band will perform until the start of the fireworks.

With fireworks, music, golf and swimming, Pottawatomie Park is a perfect place to gather with friends and family to celebrate the birthday of the United States.

Kane County residents will have ample opportunity to join in as the nation celebrates its 240th birthday. With offerings like pet parades, live music, great food, and firework extravaganzas, there’s something for everyone.

For a bit of patriotic fun, check out these other Fourth of July festivities: KANE COUNTY COUGARS GAME 6:30 P.M. JULY 3 FIFTH THIRD BANK BALLPARK, GENEVA The Cougars will play the Quad Cities River Bandits on July 3.

There will be an appearance by Quick Change, followed by a fireworks show.

9:30 P.M. JULY 4 ENGSTROM PARK, BATAVIA The Independence Day celebration features live entertainment by the band We’re Not. The fireworks show has a history of more than 50 years and is produced and funded by local citizens.

FOURTH OF JULY PARADE

ANNUAL CITY OF ELGIN/ DNA FOURTH OF JULY PARADE

10 A.M. JULY 4 DOWNTOWN AURORA The celebration, which is themed “Land of the Free, Home of the Brave,” will feature floats, live performances and more.

INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION 11 A.M. TO 2 P.M. JULY 4 TANNER HOUSE MUSEUM, (CORNER OF OAK AND CEDAR STREETS) AURORA The Tanner House celebration will feature free tours of the house, a petting zoo, games for children, Hudson Crossing musical entertainment, hot dogs and old-fashioned sodas. At 1 p.m., children in attendance can help ring out historic bells for a nationally-coordinated ringing of the bells.

FOURTH OF JULY CELEBRATION

By WENDY FOSTER

www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

BATAVIA’S FOURTH OF JULY ‘SKY CONCERT’

JULY 4 RIVEREDGE PARK, 360 N. BROADWAY AVE., AURORA The celebration features patriotic music performed by Aurora American Legion Band at 6:15 p.m. and the Fox Valley Orchestra at 7:45 p.m. The celebration concludes with a fireworks show beginning at 9:30 p.m.

JULY 4 The All-American Pooch Parade will kick off at 8:30 a.m. at the intersection of Ann Street and Douglas Avenue in Elgin, followed by the “Go for the Gold” parade at 9 a.m., which starts at the intersection of Slade and Douglas avenues. The parade will feature floats, music, dancing, BMX bike stunts, cheerleaders and more.

FOURTH OF JULY CONCERT AND FIREWORKS SHOW

FOURTH OF JULY FESTIVAL AND FIREWORKS TIMES VARY SABATINO PARK, SLEEPY HOLLOW The Fun Run will kick off a full day of events at 8 a.m. The event also will feature a fishing derby, car show, food, a pie-eating contest, bags tournament, a raffle drawing and live entertainment. The parade will take place at 11:30 a.m. and fireworks will start at 9:15 p.m.

GREAT WESTERN FREEDOM 4 8 A.M. JULY 4 LEROY OAKES FOREST PRESERVE, ST. CHARLES The 4-mile run, 2-mile walk and kids dash start near the big red barn. The race is a fundraiser for Lazarus House. For additional information, visit www.

LazarusHouseoOnline.com.

DOORS OPEN AT 3:30 P.M. JULY 4 FESTIVAL PARK, 132 S. GROVE AVE., ELGIN The Grand Victoria Concert, featuring Mark Farner – formerly of Grand Funk Railroad – will kick off at 5:30 p.m. The performance also will feature Felix Cavaliere’s Rascals, Rare Earth and the Cool Rockin’ Daddies. A fireworks show will follow at 9:30 p.m. Admission is free.

OUT & ABOUT

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | July 2016 | 59

BEAUTIFUL

BLOOMS

GARDEN CLUB’S BIENNIAL WALK TO BE ‘A DAY IN THE COUNTRY’

By CHRIS WALKER

T

he Pottawatomie Garden Club of St. Charles will host its biennial Garden Club Walk from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, July 9, with proceeds to benefit its scholarship fund.

This year, the club chose “A Day in the Country” as its theme, and the garden walk will showcase six private and distinctive gardens that are situated on the far west side of the Fox River and in St. Charles.

“It inspires you to go home and plant some things, watch them grow and get back to nature with God’s creations,” says Pat Pretz, one of the chairmen for this year’s event.

“It’s good for the spirit, and gardening is a wonderful hobby. It encourages people to become involved and, at the same time, you’re helping others through our scholarship program.”

Guests can enjoy music from Dennis and Denise Beiermann, as well as students of the Beiermann School of Music of St. Charles, as they tour the gardens. Complimentary lemonade and cookies will be served in an 1800s garden setting.

“We hope to inspire you with ideas for your own garden,” says Ellen Smith, president of the Pottawatomie Garden Club of St. Charles.

“As you drive from garden to garden, we invite you to enjoy the countryside and the wide open spaces where abundant rural life mingles Even if it’s particularly warm on July 9, Pretz says there will be plenty of shade among the with the suburban newcomers.” gardens.

During past walks, guests got ideas from the gardens they saw and incorporated them into their own gardens at home.

In addition, the Garden Gate Boutique will offer charming wares, plants and gardenrelated items available for purchase.

With several master gardeners and other volunteers in attendance, guests will be able to learn more about gardening and can ask questions.

One of the featured gardens belongs to Smith.

She’s been in her home with her husband, Fred, for 22 years. Some of the couple’s favorite plantings include tri-colored European Beeches and more than 30 different varieties of hostas and hydrangeas.

60 | July 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

OUT & ABOUT

“It’s something we’ve been doing for more than 20 years, and we still enjoy doing it,” Ellen Smith says. “We’ve got a beautiful stream, and there are birds and butterflies.

My husband and I hope that people enjoy it as much as we do.”

Proceeds will go toward a $3,000 scholarship for a deserving student majoring in horticulture, agriculture, botany, forestry or ecology.

Tickets cost $15 in advance and $20 at the door. For tickets, visit www.pottagardenclub. org or stop by any of these St. Charles locations: the Heinz Brothers Greenhouse, Wasco Nursery and Garden Center, or Blue Goose Market.

“[The Garden Club Walk] inspires you to go home and plant some things, watch them grow and get back to nature with God’s creations.”

– Pat Pretz, Garden Club Walk chairman

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OUT & ABOUT

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | July 2016 | 61

CALENDAR

JULY 2016

GENEVA CLASSIC CAR SHOWS

RIVERPARK CONCERT SERIES

WHEN: 6 to 8 p.m. Thursdays in July and August WHERE: Kane County Courthouse parking lot,

WHEN: 6 to 7:30 p.m. Sunday, July 10 WHERE: RiverPark, located at Peyton and River

100 S. Third St., Geneva

streets in Geneva

The Geneva Classic Car Shows feature antique, custom build, muscle and sport cars each Thursday during the summer. The event feature food, a deejay and the downtown shops, pubs and eateries stay open late, while several offer evening entertainment.

A jazz concert will be performed by Northside Brass group, led by Ryan Hobbs – a Geneva graduate and resident. The riverfront shows are free of charge, but donations are welcome.

Attendees can bring lawn chairs and blankets, and a picnic. For more information, email MJBankmann@hotmail.com.

p HOLLYWOOD VAMPIRES AT RIVEREDGE PARK WHEN: 8 p.m. Thursday, July 7 (gates open at

6:30 p.m.)

WHERE: RiverEdge Park, 360 N. Broadway St., Aurora The Hollywood Vampires with Joe Perry, Alice Cooper and Johnny Depp will perform at RiverEdge Park. Tickets cost $65. For tickets, visit riveredgeaurora.com.

WHEN: 6 to 7:30 p.m. Sunday, July 17 The Need to be Seen Radio Troupe will perform old-fashioned radio shows.

WHEN: 6 to 7:30 p.m. Sunday, July 24 The Geneva Jazz Ensemble, led by Nancy Werve, a Geneva resident.

BARTENDING 101

The Hat Guys will perform a diverse selection of modern and classic hits from the ’50s to today.

WHEN: 7 p.m. Thursday, July 21 Second Hand Soul Band will perform Motown, soul and rock and roll.

WHEN: 7 p.m. Thursday, July 28 7th Heaven will perform dead-on rendition of popular bands like Def Leppard, the Beatles, Bon Jovi, Journey, U2 and more.

62 | July 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

Batavia Through connected examples from music, juggling and baking, Dr. Eugenia Cheng will show that math can be made fun and intriguing for all, through hands-on activities and funny stories. She will present high-level mathematics, including some advanced abstract algebra usually only seen by math majors and graduate students with a distinct emphasis on edible examples. Dr. Eugenia Cheng is Scientist In Residence at the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and tenured in Pure Mathematics at the University of Sheffield, UK. Tickets cost $7. For tickets or more information, visit www.fnal.gov/ culture/NewArts/Lectures.

FoxFire restaurant will host a Bartending 101 class on its outdoor patio. The class will teach patrons to learn to make some of the eatery’s signature summer cocktails. Appetizers will be paired with cocktails. The cost for the class is $35. To reserve a spot, visit foxfiregeneva.com.

p AIR SUPPLY WITH BLOOD, SWEAT & TEARS, FEATURING BO BICE WHEN: Gates open at 6 p.m. and the show begins at 7 p.m. Saturday, July 16 WHERE: RiverEdge Park, 360 N. Broadway St., Aurora

WHEN: 7 p.m. Thursday, July 7 WHERE: Lincoln Park, located at W. Main and

WHEN: 7 p.m. Thursday, July 14

WHEN: 8 p.m. Friday, July 15 WHERE: Fermilab, Kirk and Pine streets in

WHEN: 6 to 10 p.m. Wednesday, July 13 WHERE: FoxFire, 17 W. State St., Geneva

CONCERTS IN THE PARK 4th streets in St. Charles Dick Diamond and the Dusters will perform pop dance favorites from the last four decades. Bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy an open-air concert. Food will be available for purchase. The concert is free and open to the public. For more information, visit www.stcparks.org.

HOW TO BAKE PI: AN EDIBLE EXPLORATION OF THE MATHEMATICS OF MATHEMATICS

pSUMMER CHI.ILL TROPICAL MUSIC FEST WHEN: 6 p.m. Thursday, July 14; 5:30 to 11 p.m.

Friday, July 15; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and 6 p.m. to midnight (adults only) Saturday, July 16; and 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, July 17 WHERE: Pheasant Run Resort, 4051 E. Main St., St. Charles

The Chicago Parrothead Club and Cornerstone Services will present Summer CHI.ILL, a troprock festival that starts Thursday evening at Zanies Comedy Club and continues until Sunday afternoon. The event will feature food and live music by The Boat Drunks, Johnny Russler and the Beach Bum Band, Coral Reefer Jim Mayer, Thom Shepherd, Coley McCabe, Charlie Imes, The Detentions, Brittany Kingery, Rob Hill, The Djembabe Melanie Howe, the Shannon Rovers Irish Pipe Band, Catfish and Flip Flop Dave, and Donny Brewer. Tickets cost $50. For more information, visit www.summerchi-ill.com.

OUT & ABOUT

By the end of the show, these bands will have run through hits from the ’60s, ’70s and ’80s. Tickets cost $40. For tickets or more information, visit riveredgeaurora.com.

u COCKTAILS IN THE PARK WHEN: 7 p.m.

Saturday, July 16 WHERE:

Appleton Park (The River Walk behind the city building and police station) in downtown Batavia The fifth annual Cocktails in the Park event is dedicated to showcasing Batavia restaurants and the downtown area while raising funds for Batavia MainStreet’s revitalization efforts.

The event will feature live music, drinks, appetizers, a cigar and whiskey or dessert and champagne tasting decks, and more. Tickets cost $25. For tickets or more information, visit downtownbatavia.com.

www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

RON’S ROCK AND ROLL CIRCUS II

KILLER QUEEN TRIBUTE

AMAZING ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS

WHEN: 5 p.m. Saturday, July 16 WHERE: 105 E. Main St., St. Charles

WHEN: 8 p.m. Friday, July 22 WHERE: 105 E. Main St., St. Charles

WHEN: 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, July 30 WHERE: Primrose Farm, 5N726 Crane Road, St.

The international-touring Killer Queen Tribute band will perform popular hits by Queen. Tickets start at $39. For tickets, visit www.arcadalive.com.

Charles

Starring Vince Neil of Motley Crue, Kix and Enuff Z’Nuff will perform at Ron’s Rock and Roll Circus II. Tickets start at $50. For tickets, visit www.arcadalive.com.

Touch a turtle, pet a chicken, learn about bees and interact with service dogs during the Amazing Animal Encounters event at Primrose Farm. Animal adventurers that visit all of the stations can collect stamps and win a prize. Tickets cost $8 and $10 at the door. The event is free for children ages 2 and younger.

For more information, visit www.primrosefarmpark. com.

BEST OF ST. CHARLES FOODIE FEST p ‘HEATHERS THE MUSICAL’ WHEN: 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, July 22, and July 23, and 6 p.m. Sunday, July 24 WHERE: Pheasant Run Mainstage Theater, 4051 E. Main St., St. Charles

p ANONAPALOOZA! WHEN: Noon to 7 p.m. Sunday, July 17 WHERE: Good Templar Park, 528 E. Side Drive,

Geneva The eighth annual family summer festival will feature local bands, family-friendly activities, children’s games, face-painting, a bounce house and raffle. The event is free to attend, but donations will be accepted.

All proceeds will go toward the Hope Outreach Foundation, a nonprofit organization that provides individuals recovering from alcohol and substance abuse disorders the opportunity to attend 12-step recovery retreats to further support their recovery from addiction.

ANDERSON ANIMAL SHELTER DOGLEG GOLF OUTING

“Heathers the Musical” tells a darkly delicious story of Veronica Sawyer, a brainy, beautiful teenage misfit, who hustles her way into the most powerful ruthless clique at Westerberg High: the Heathers. Tickets cost $15. For tickets or more information, visit www. verovoce.com or call the box office at 630-584-6342.

GENEVA ARTS FAIR WHEN: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, July 23, and Sunday, July 24 WHERE: Downtown Geneva, along Third and State streets

The Geneva Arts Fair transforms downtown Geneva into a venue for more than 150 artists and draws a crowd of more than 20,000 people. The juried show was voted a Top 200 Fine Craft Fair by Art Fair SourceBook. Admission is free and includes a children’s art area with special activities. For more information, visit www.genevachamber.com.

WHEN: 5 to 9:30 p.m. Saturday, July 30 WHERE: St. Charles History Museum, 215 E. Main St.,

St. Charles The event will feature small plates of food from local St. Charles restaurants, craft beer, wine, live music, a silent auction and a mystery wine-dine game.

The event will take place at the St. Charles History Museum and the top deck of the 3rd Street parking garage. For more information, visit www.stcmuseum. org.

FAMILY FUN DAY WHEN: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, July 31 WHERE: St. Charles History Museum, 215 E. Main St.,

St. Charles The Museum will host its first Family Fun Day, complete with a carnival and games, kid-friendly food, music, a dunk tank and a trackless train. The event will take place at the St. Charles History Museum and the top deck of the 3rd Street parking garage. For more information, visit www.stcmuseum.org.

WHEN: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, July 22 WHERE: The Highlands of Elgin, 875 Sports Way, Elgin

Anderson Animal Shelter will host its 10th annual DOGLEG Open. A cart and green fees, a hospitality gift, lunch and dinner will be included for each team. The evening will conclude with live and silent auctions, dinner and a cash bar. The cost for a single player is $150, $600 for a foursome and $35 for non-golfers. To register a team, visit www.events. org/2016DogLegOpen.

PAT BENATAR & NEIL GIRALDO, AND MELISSA ETHERIDGE WHEN: 7:30 p.m. Friday, July 22 (Gates open at 6

p.m.)

WHERE: RiverEdge Park, 360 N. Broadway St., Aurora

Pat Benetar and Neil Giraldo will perform first, followed by folk-rock artist Melissa Eheridge. Tickets cost $45. For tickets, visit riveredgeaurora.com.

www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

p BOB LEONARD 5K RUN AND 1K FAMILY COLOR RUN WHEN: 7:30 a.m. Sunday, July 31 WHERE: Pavilion at Pottawatomie Park, 8 North Ave.,

p ‘JURASSIC PARK’

St. Charles

WHEN: 7 p.m. Monday, July 25 (Doors open at 6:15

The ninth annual Bob Leonard 5K Run, a certified race starting and finishing at the pavilion in Pottawatomie Park. Participants will run along and over the Fox River and back, followed by a 1K Family Color Run in the park. The event also will feature refreshments and a deejay. The cost to participate is between $10 and $40. For more info or to register, visit www.signmeup. com/113228.

p.m.)

WHERE: Paramount Theatre, 23 E. Galena Blvd.,

Aurora Paramount Theatre will screen “Jurassic Park,” an action/adventure film by director Steven Spielberg, as part of its Movie Mondays film series. The film is rated PG-13 and runs 127 minutes. Concessions are available for purchase. Tickets cost $1. For tickets or more information, visit paramountaurora.com

OUT & ABOUT

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | July 2016 | 63

Artist SHOWCASE AMANDA MEYER | YORKVILLE CONCEPTUAL FINE ART PHOTOGRAPHY “ENSNARED BY FATE, NO LIES ESCAPE” Amanda Meyer strives to create images that strike an emotional chord.

“I want to create an emotional connection with myself, my images and … others,” says Meyers. “I love nature and am truly fascinated by the [connection] between nature and the human form.”

Meyer, a conceptual fine art photographer and self-portrait artist, earned an associate’s degree in art and digital/traditional photography from Waubonsee Community College in Sugar Grove.

The artist enjoys using texture and soft, but bold, colors in a natural environment to create emotionally conceptual imagery that requires the use of traditional photography techniques and surrealist ideas.

SM-CL0357984

1050 Dunham Rd. • St. Charles 630-377-1405 • norrisrec.org

In this image, “Ensnared by Fate, No Lies Escape,” the artist seeks to represent the juxtaposition of beauty and darkness.

“We sometimes find ourselves trapped in patterns of daily life, unwilling to break free,” Meyers says. “We have the power to break free from these patterns or allow them to ensnare us and let our lives be led by our own ideas of fate.”

As a self-portrait artist, Meyers can step into the worlds of the characters she creates, which allows her to express her deepest emotions though storytelling imagery, she says.

“I create worlds where anything is possible, and my characters can share their stories with the world… ,” she says. “My camera is the looking glass – the window for the sprit to flow through freely without fear.”

To submit an entry to Artist Showcase, email artwork, title of piece, name and village of residence of artist, a two- to three - sentence description of the piece, short bio and artist photo to KaneCountyMagazine@ shawmedia.com, subject head “Local Artist Submission.”

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Enjoy a FREE DAY OF FITNESS!

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SM-CL0350047

OUT & ABOUT

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | July 2016 | 65

SOCIAL

Life

BLOCK PARTY

Donnie Wahlberg hosts sold-out show in St. Charles On June 2, Donnie Wahlberg performed a solo show at the Arcada Theatre to benefit Generation Rescue – a nonprofit organization that provides hope, information and immediate treatment assistance to families affected by autism spectrum disorders.

The event, dubbed “An Evening with Donnie Wahlberg & Special Guests,” had special guests, indeed. In addition to TV personality Jenny McCarthy, Wahlberg was joined on stage by New Kids on the Block members Joey McIntyre, Jordan Knight and Danny Wood, as well as hip-hop trio Naughty by Nature.

Following the show, an exclusive VIP after party took place at the Hotel Baker in downtown St. Charles.

More than $700,000 was raised during the event, according to the Generation Rescue website.

Photos by BRIAN BABINEAU

66 | July 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

PETS-A-PALOOZA - A DAY OF FRESH AIR, FUR & FUN FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY!

By Anderson Animal Shelter Featured Sponsor DePaw University Canine Campus Anderson Animal Shelter warmly invites you to join us for some fun & merriment at our second annual Pets-a-Palooza Festival on Sunday, September 18th at Mooseheart Child City & School. Pets-a-Palooza is a family and pet-friendly party that Anderson created to celebrate the love for our furry friends.

A peek at the day’s events will show you that there will be TONS to do all day long. There will be plenty of games and contests planned as well as pet-themed and human-themed goodies and merchandise for sale. Show off your favorite furkid(s) in our parade, pick up a few tips at one of our demonstrations and maybe even teach your pet a new trick! Then, seek out the perfect spot under a shady tree and take a break – either pack a picnic or enjoy the treats that will be for sale from our vendors and watch the fun un-furl.

“Pets-a-Palooza is a celebration of pets,” said Beth Drake, Anderson Animal Shelter’s Executive Director. “We’re very excited for our second annual parade and festival, and hope that our community comes out to take part in the celebration.”

The pet parade will kick off at several different times during the day to accommodate families’ weekend schedules and encourage participation of their furry family members. For a small registration fee, join other families and meet new friends (furry & otherwise) as you walk the parade route together.

Or create your own fundraising web page to support Pets-a-Palooza, one of the shelter’s largest fundraisers which provides critical funding for our life-saving programs. It’s fast, easy and fun! Just go to www.firstgiving.com/44429/pets-a-palooza-2016 to get started! Costumes are not required, but all participants are encouraged to embrace the spirit of Pets-a-Palooza and strut their stuff!

Pets-a-Palooza wouldn’t be possible without the support of our event sponsors and advertisers, thank you to the following for coming on board: Petco Foundation, Batavia Animal Clinic, Cleveland Veterinary Clinic, Costco Wholesale, DePaw University Canine Campus, Orchard Road Animal Hospital, Pethealth, and School of Art.

More information on the festival, parade, sponsorship and vendor options can be sniffed out on Anderson’s website at www.andersonanimalshelter. org or contact the Development Department at (847) 697-2880 x25.

SM-CL0350025

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