Kane County Magazine_May 2020

MAY 2020

COMMUNITIES

WORKING ORKING together AURORA FOOD PANTRY HELPING THOSE IN NEED PAGE 8

KCMAG May 2020.indd 1

4/30/20 4:38 PM

QUALITY MEA TS PREMIUM EST. 1998

Geneva, IL

YOUR UR LOCAL L BUTCHE BUTCHER

Make Life Better…

Eat Together • Filet Mignons • Boneless Ribeye • Prime Rib

We dry age choice & prime cuts of American Beef & cut them to your specs!

GRILLING SEASON BEGINS WITH OUR

Cookout Favorites

Homemade Italian or Polish Sausage • Brats Aged Tender Steaks • BBQ Ribs • Jumbo Chops Signature Burgers for the Grill (12oz. each) Tuscan • Blue Cheese • Bacon-Onion Cheddar Jalapeno Jack • Gourmet Sliders - A Summer Favorite!

20 Different Fresh Salads Daily and Our Own Homemade Potato Salad

Featuring a full Line of Boars Head Luncheon Meats Open Tues - Sun.

KCMAG May 2020.indd 2

Engstrom Plaza • 716 West State St., Geneva (Entrance on 7th Street)

630-262-1878 • www.josefsmeats.com

4/30/20 4:38 PM

Ready for Anything!

CONGRATULATIONS

CLASS OF 2020

Stay tuned for graduation updates.

BATV is here for the community!

YOUR VOICE YOUR VISION

B ATAV I A A C C E S S T E L E V I S I O N

KCMAG May 2020.indd 3

YOUR COMMUNITY

4/30/20 4:38 PM

Publisher's

NOTE Navigating the path to ‘normal’ involves everyone This issue of KC showcases some of the very heroic people and organizations in the region and their efforts to help one another. We also attempt to shed some light on the pursuit of hope. Hope can take many shapes, whether it’s the opening of the new Batavia Boardwalk shops or the inaugural fall Bridal stroll in Geneva. When things are tough, it is important to have something ‘normal’ to look forward to.

Just a slice of what local businesses are going through out there today are the stories of three that have made adjusting to this new normal part of their temporary approach to business. It is inspiring to see how their ‘can do’ attitude and adaptability are sustaining them through these challenging days.

What I have realized during this pandemic is that distractions can be incredibly valuable in order to fill the voids that would otherwise be filled with stress or anxiety. Whether it’s simply prepping your garden for the growing season or planning overdue home improvement projects, keeping occupied is part of getting through this.

For those of you considering putting your house on the market, area real estate professionals say they expect things to bounce back – a positive note, a ray of hope for sure. For those who are struggling with the mental stresses of a pandemic, the isolation, the lack of human touch, the feeling of insecurity, we have several stories about those who are here to help.

Lastly, our cover this month is a mosaic of more than 300 individual images that St. Charles' own Kristen Cornelio created. A lifelong Tri-City resident, she explains (Page 7) the inspiration behind the artwork and the powerful message she hopes to convey.

Be kind to one another and stay safe.

Thanks for reading!

PUBLISHER Daily Chronicle & Suburban Weekly Group Laura Shaw 630-709-4497 lshaw@shawmedia.com DESIGNER Allison LaPorta 630-427-6260 alaporta@shawmedia.com LOCAL SALES MANAGER Kane County Chronicle & Niche Publishing Jaclyn Cornell 630-845-5234 jcornell@shawmedia.com CORRESPONDENTS John Stein, Pat Szpekowski, Sara Carlson, Kevin Druley, Chris Walker, Tom Witom Vicki Martinka Petersen, and Melissa Rubalcaba Riske

Laura Shaw, Publisher

on the

COVER

This month’s KC Cover is a mosaic-style design, featuring more than 300 individual images, that captures the uniqueness and community strength of Kane County. Page 7

This magazine is available by subscription for $24 a year. If you would like each month’s edition mailed to your home, send your request with payment information to Shaw Media, 7717 S. Route 31, Crystal Lake, IL 60014 or via email at subscriptions@shawmedia.com.

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

4

MAY

2020

KCMAG May 2020.indd 4

4/30/20 4:38 PM

s r e t r a u q d a e H g Your Grillin

Y T I L A U Q T S E H G HI Steaks, Chops, Homemade Bacon, and Award-Winning Sausages Boutique Wines and Whiskey, Craft and Import Beer

www.ReamsMeatMarket.com

Hours: Mon-Fri: 9am-6pm • Sat: 9am-4pm • Sun: 10am-4pm • Closed Memorial Day, MAY 25

A GREAT OLD FASHIONED FULL SERVICE MEAT MARKET KCMAG May 2020.indd 5

4/30/20 4:38 PM

INSIDE

What's

OUT & ABOUT 7 TOGETHERNESS Capturing the uniqueness and community strength of Kane County.

8 MAKING A DIFFERENCE Aurora Food Pantry working hard to help keep spirits up.

FAMILY IN FOCUS 12 TRADITION WITH NEW EXPERIENCE New cruises offer history, relaxation and fun.

14 THINK SIMPLE As storm of uncertainty gathers, here’s how to find ‘normal’ again.

HEALTH & WELLNESS 16 EAT HEALTHY, EVEN WHEN YOU’RE OUT Digestive expert Dr. Tarun Mullick talks about basic health issues and eating healthy in the spirit of Cinco de Mayo.

18 COUNSELING SERVICES Stronger Therapeutic Counseling Services transition into telehealth despite the restrictions.

22 SPRING TIPS Healthy gardening tips for the growing season.

24 KEEPING IT CLEAN Best Vac helping customers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

DINING & ENTERTAINING 25 BEYOND BORSCHT Old world recipes from Ukraine and Eastern Europe.

26 BATAVIA DESTINATION Home-style cooking to famed beer pairings.

27 GENEVA BRIDAL STROLL It’s never too early to mark the date in your calendar.

BUSINESS & CIVIC 28 BATAVIA BOARDWALK New Batavia Boardwalk Shops prepare for opening day.

30 IT WON’T HAPPEN TO ME...

Tom McCartney on navigaing market volatility.

19 LOCAL CANCER RESOURCE CENTER LivingWell Cancer Resource Center provides free supportive care.

HOMES & LIFESTYLE 20 OPTIMISTIC Regional real estate outlook remains upbeat.

6

MAY

2020

KCMAG May 2020.indd 6

4/30/20 4:38 PM

s s e n r e h t og e t The story behind this month’s KC cover

By John Stein | Photos Provided

300 individual images, that captures the uniqueness and community strength of Kane County. “The images were a collection I took from over the past three years, incorporating new images taken over this past month to have an equal mix of the communities,” she says.

see them.”

Cornelio’s day job had a fresh start in January 2020 when she launched Kristen Holly, LLC, a social media/marketing company that specializes in helping local, small businesses.

Cornelio says she drew inspiration from the joy of human touch and the inspiring spirit of helping one another that she has seen exhibited throughout the months of the pandemic. “I forget the power of human touch and you miss the simple things like giving friends hugs when you

“Personally, this was something that I wanted to really put my heart into when creating. It’s an honor to be given this opportunity to visually share my love for my community and the roots of where I’ve proudly called home,” she says.

This month’s KC Cover by Cornelio is a mosaic-style design, featuring more than

Symbolism can often be more powerful than the actual image, and for Cornelio, the idea of communities bounding together by a hand pack reflected the hope that everyone will rise above the challenge by coming together as one.

Photo by Jennifer Kaye Photography (Geneva, IL)

F

or her entire life, Kristen Cornelio has called the Tri-City region her home. Growing up in Batavia, she’s lived in Geneva and, married in fall 2018, she recently moved to St. Charles with her husband and a 10-year-old Jack Russel/Corgi mix.

OUT & ABOUT MAY 2020

KCMAG May 2020.indd 7

7

4/30/20 4:38 PM

MAKING A

DIFFERE ERE Aurora Food Pantry working hard to help keep spirits up

By Maureen McGuire & Pat Szpekowski | Photos Provided

E

aster season was especially grim this year for people who have lost jobs due to COVID-19 and faced empty shelves at home; but the staff members of Aurora Food Pantry worked hard to get them the nutritious food they needed and something a little more to help keep their spirits up.

“During Easter season all of us dressed up as superheroes — Batman, Robin, Superman and the Easter Bunny,” says Aurora Food

8

Pantry Executive Director Cat Battista.

“People are so dispirited right now.

We’re trying to not just fill their tummies, but to do something fun to help brighten their day. Our neighbors loved it — and especially the kids.”

The COVID-19 crisis has tripled the number of people seeking food at Aurora Food Pantry, Battista says.

“We’re determined to continue to provide them with relief and strongly believe access to fresh, nutritious food is everyone’s right.”

OUT & ABOUT MAY 2020

KCMAG May 2020.indd 8

4/30/20 4:38 PM

ENCE For this year’s Spring Appeal, entitled Hungry For More, the Aurora Food Pantry did something a little different. “We focused on three people who faced hunger themselves at one time,” Battista says.

Ellie Esparza is a mother of two and recently started her own business, Concrete Rose Studios. J.L. Callison authored four books after illness brought him to the food pantry. Joseph Stevenson grew up with a single mother and today serves as a member of the Aurora Food Pantry staff.

always stood up for the underdog.

She once collected 20,000 signatures for a young boy to be let back into school after a toy gun was found in his backpack. “He never took it out of the backpack,” says Esparza. “The expulsion was rescinded.”

At 17, Esparza joined the military where she served four years and attended Illinois State University. She rose to manage a public accounting firm as a new mother and purchased her first home when she was 23.

“I’m most proud of my resilience and ability to overcome and create opportunities for myself,” says Ellie Esparza, a military veteran and founder of Concrete Rose Studios, a full-service digital branding agency.

Ellie has parlayed that penchant for helping othersthrough public service as a candidate for Aurora’s City Council in 2021.

As a child, Esparza and her mother were weekly users of Aurora Food Pantry, but she didn’t let their circumstances hold her back. A gifted student in schools where many lived below the poverty line, Ellie

“I already serve the public,” she says, “but more importantly, I want to empower others to do the same. I truly believe everyone has the ability to make a difference.”

Callison never thought he would need the services of Aurora Food Pantry until he contracted a serious illness, Guillain-Barr syndrome.

Most people typically get over it in a year,” he says, “but mine became chronic.”

A one-time donor and volunteer at the food pantry, Callison found himself needing the services of an organization he had once supported. “God has always

OUT & ABOUT MAY 2020

KCMAG May 2020.indd 9

9

4/30/20 4:38 PM

“

We’re determined to continue to provide them with relief and strongly believe access to fresh, nutritious food is everyone’s right.

“

Cat Battista, Aurora Food Pantry Executive Director

provided and the food pantry has been so helpful,” he says. “Aurora Food Pantry has just been an awesome blessing.”

Callison’s writing career began as he searched for something to fill his time. “I hate television, it bores me,” he laughed. “Ten minutes into a show, I know what will happen. The writing on television is pathetic.”

His four books are primarily informed by his religious faith. “God has put me in different places and there has been purpose in what I have been doing,” he says.

A member of the Aurora Food Pantry staff, Joseph Stevenson and his mother at one time used the services of Aurora Food Pantry.

10

“One of the most important times in my life was when a friend introduced me to wrestling,” he says. “It taught me to be mentally strong — you really need a strong mindset.”

Central States SER, Jobs for Progress, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the quality of people’s lives and advancing economic stability among youth.

The largest food pantry in northern Illinois, Aurora Food Pantry is primarily sustained by donations and provides food to people living in six Northern Illinois counties.

“There’s only one winner and one loser,” he continued. “You can apply those same competitions in life.

There are always obstacles and someone pushing through to be better than you.”

Soon recognized for his hard work, skills and dedication at the food pantry, Joseph was hired on part-time to assist with food recovery deliveries and warehouse operations.

Stevenson credits many individuals for helping him and most especially one of his high school teachers. “He was a father figure and helped me get through certain things. Someone I could talk to and find advice.”

For the future, Stevenson would like to go back to school and finish college and pursue a career in filmmaking and photography.

Battista is confident the community will continue its support of the Aurora Food Pantry. “There are many people among us who are food insecure,” she says, “including those you would not even expect in your own neighborhood. We are dedicated to our compassionate mission of ending hunger.”

Stevenson began working at the Aurora Food pantry after he learned of an internship program offeredby

Because of the assistance he has received in his life, Joseph wants to give back to the community. “I like to help people,” he says. “Aurora Food Pantry is a good spot for me.”

For information about the services and programs or volunteering and making a difference at Aurora Area Interfaith Food Pantry: visit aurorafoodpantry.org.

OUT & ABOUT MAY 2020

KCMAG May 2020.indd 10

4/30/20 4:38 PM

Meet the faces of hunger in Kane County. Each of the people featured in this photo has an incredible story to share about how they experienced hunger here in our community - and yet rose above it to accomplish incredible things. Read J.L., Joseph and Ellie's stories by visiting www.aurorafoodpantry.org

KCMAG May 2020.indd 11

4/30/20 4:38 PM

Tradition

WITH

NEW EXPERIEN New cruises offer history, relaxation and fun

By Sara Carlson | Photos Provided

12

ake in the beauty of the Fox Valley this summer aboard an historic paddlewheel riverboat – an iconic attraction in St. Charles for more than 75 years.

This recreational activity that has spanned generations began in 1945 when the late Chet Anderson bought his first paddlewheel riverboat to charter cruises up and down the Fox River. Docked off Pottawatomie Park, the riverboat cruises became a family business for more than 70 years. When Chet

Anderson’s son, Rich Anderson, retired in 2019, the St. Charles Park District purchased the business and continues to carry on its legacy.

“For 75 years, the paddlewheel riverboat cruises have been a symbol of pride and tradition in the community,” said Tera Harvey, Manager of Cruise Operations. “The Park District keeps that sentiment top of mind, as we create programming to honor the past but also give patrons new experiences when they set sail down the Fox River.”

This summer the Park District will honor and celebrate this rich history with various programming and cruises to keep the tradition alive, while giving residents a one-of-a-kind experience to take in the natural surroundings of the Fox River.

In partnership with the St. Charles History Museum, Pottawatomie Community Center will provide an exhibit to showcase the history, timeline and many features and artifacts of the paddlewheel riverboat cruises in St. Charles.

FAMILY IN FOCUS MAY 2020

KCMAG May 2020.indd 12

4/30/20 4:38 PM

ENCES But the history won’t stop there, as the public cruises on either the Fox River Queen or St. Charles Belle II tell stories from the past.

While taking in the scenery through the windows below or the upper, open-air deck, residents will learn about the Pottawatomi tribe that roamed the banks of the shore prior to St. Charles settlement; historic landmarks including Pottawatomie Park, its 9-hole golf course, Boy Scout Island, Ferson Creek Fen and Norris Woods; as well as, community lore regarding Al Capone’s infamous “hideaway,” and other tales from the past. This 50-minute, 4-mile cruise heads north from Pottawatomie Park to

the Q Center and back.

Additionally, other recurring cruises include Live Storytelling Public Tours for all ages in partnership with local organizations to share a special story about the history of St. Charles or life in the Fox Valley.

The popular date night experience is back, as the riverboats will include both Sunset Cruises for all ages and BYOB Sunset Cruises for ages 21 and older.

Little sailors won’t be left out, either.

Set Sail for Story Time will give children the opportunity to throw on their pajamas, enjoy cookies and juice, while listening to a boatthemed picture book by a special narrator, all during a sunset sail. This cruise, and all public cruises, include children’s activities with sailor hats and eye spy activities.

Special one-time cruises will take place this summer as well, including Happy History Hour, Riverboat Eco Cruise, Monarchs and Margaritas, Yoga and Cruise, Moonlight Cruise, Pirate Adventure Cruise and more.

All programming may be impacted

by COVID-19 restrictions, so please check the website for cruise events, times and locations: www.stcriverboats.com.

Time for Spring Clean-Up

Skyline Tree Service was established in 1988 and is family owned and operated. After 30 years of service, we still hold strong to our original commitment to excellence to provide our customers with quality tree care services.

Removal • Emergency Services • Tree Trimming • Stump Removal • Tree Risk Assessment • Plant Health Care • Certified Arborists R E S I D E N T I A L , CO M M E R C I A L & M U N I C I PA L 6 3 0 - 58 4 - 2 2 21 | WWW.SKYLINETREESVC.COM FAMILY IN FOCUS MAY 2020

KCMAG May 2020.indd 13

13

4/30/20 4:38 PM

THINK SIMPLE H

olidays in the time of the COVID-19 pandemic have proven to be a tepid but resilient breed. St. Patrick’s Day went parade-less before traditional Easter brunches shifted from hotels and golf courses to the online Zoom meeting platform.

As uncertainty about daily life and the duration of our quarantine looms, upcoming holidays still inch closer on the calendar.

What will things look like this summer?

That answer is difficult to gauge. Still, if you believe hope springs eternal and might enjoy the diversion of prospectively planning ahead, Kane County Magazine offers the following ideas for activities and gifts:  BIKE RIDES Grab the bikes from the garage or shed and take to the streets of your neighborhood – or perhaps a nearby trail. Should you choose to pursue the latter locale, however, be mindful of the latest news from the Kane County Forest Preserve District. While there were plans to keep forest preserves open to the public as posted, plans also included closing all washroom areas “as a measure to protect

14

public health and worker safety.”  FAMILY COOKING Do you have children? Are they old enough to be taught the ins-and-outs of using the stove or measuring and preparing ingredients? If so, think about taking a more basic route for this year’s meal in order to involve the entire family in planning and preparing. Unless you have young Emeril Lagasse in waiting, that is. Then make your feast as multifaceted as you wish.  GO FOR A WALK Choose your venue and be sure to follow Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidelines for social distancing, or putting about six feet between yourself and others.

Visit: co.kane.il.us for the latest information on access and any new restrictions.  GOLF If you want to hit the links this spring, it is important to check golf course websites for the most up-to-date status reports or call the clubhouse before making plans. Be prepared to walk or not share a golf cart with your partner. If you’re unsure or would rather golf under more certain circumstances, contact

WHEN LOOKING FOR ‘NORMAL’ AGAIN

By Kevin Druley

your favorite course about getting a gift card for that maternal or paternal golfer in your life to be used later in the season.  GIFT CARDS Many restaurants, stores and arts and entertainment venues still are offering gift cards during the pandemic. These cards are not only a lifeline for many local businesses, but can be used once the quarantine and shelter-in-place orders are lifted, and may bring the added benefit of reminding the recipient that a return to normalcy is within range.  GAME ON Dust off a favorite board game or break the seal on the deck of cards in the “junk” drawer.

See which family member can yell “Yahtzee!” the loudest – provided, of course, he or she rolls five of a kind in the immortal dice game.  GO GARDEN Another way to enjoy the outdoors – again, while keeping a safe distance from your fellow green thumb. Visit Wasco Nursery & Garden Center, 41W781 Route 64, St. Charles.

FAMILY IN FOCUS MAY 2020

KCMAG May 2020.indd 14

4/30/20 4:38 PM

Serving Breakfast All Day Long!

Updated Hours: Closed Monday Tues. - Fri. 8am - 1pm Sat. & Sun. 7am - 1pm

Come Try Our Mexican Food!

630 W. State St., Geneva (331) 248-0646 www.statestdiner.com

CITY AUTO

SERVING THE FOX VALLEY AREA FOR OVER 45 YEARS

• From Major Collision Damage to Minor Dent & Scratch Repair • Paintless Repair • Lifetime Warranty

TriCity Auto, Inc. EST 1972 110 N. Randall Rd. St. Charles tricityautoinc.com

Updated Hours: Monday–Friday 7:30–4:30pm Saturday By Appointment

Rt. 64

*

Randall Rd.

TRI

Family activity

Pickup Curbside or Delivery Within a 5 mile radius.

630-584-5115

Readyto ride?

Everyone knows that Moms have a tough job, especially now as she adds “teacher” to her list. At Pinot’s Palette we are all about helping Mom relax and have some fun. Whether it is a virtual class so Mom can unleash her creative talents or take-home painting kits to keep the kids entertained for a couple of hours, we are here to help. And we have a NEW alternative…VIRTUAL PRIVATE PARTIES!!

Enjoy a night of painting with friends you have not seen in a while; or host a birthday or graduation party, all from the comfort of your own home.

Party kits can be picked up at the studio, delivered or shipped. Call the studio (630.338.0278) to discuss your options and pricing.

Looking for local bike trails?

Find the 2020 Fox River Trail Guide at www.foxriverbiketrails.com

Coming soon to the local park districts and most retail locations noted below.

PINOT'S PALETTE

3823 E. Main Street, St. Charles 630.338.0278 | www.pinotspalette.com/stcharles

w w w. f o x r i v e r b i k e t r a i l s . c o m FAMILY IN FOCUS MAY 2020

KCMAG May 2020.indd 15

15

4/30/20 4:38 PM

Still into the no-dine-in approach, as the restaurants are closed for social gathering purposes for COVID-19? So, how to enjoy something out?

Fortunately, we have delivery options or curbside options that still exist.

16

Just think, if we can stamp this virus out within a month or so, then we can get back to eating out more normally. Let’s support our local restaurants. Come on with me and do a take out at least two times a week.

In the spirit of Cinco de Mayo, there are a number of places around town that are serving Mexican in a healthy way, but none more funkier and stylistic than the Jalapeño Grill.

When you first see this cool looking place, you just have to drive by it. You think: what is this amazingly brightly designed location. Then when you get their food, it just goes over the top.

I decided to try their chicken tacos as a shared appetizer. The delectable infusion of spices and aromas bathe the chicken slowly over time to create bombastic flavor that's second to none.

Couple that with some pico and a flour tortilla and you are on a trip to healthy flavor heaven! I ate one of their tacos. That kept my balance of protein and carbs in a favorable manner. Then I loved the chicken so much that I asked for it as a tortilla-less taco deconstructed. This gave me the protein without the added carbs.

For the main course, I had the steak sandwich.

Move over Philly, we now have the Mexican Philly. This is a steak sandwich with infusion of aromatic spices and rubs on the meat that season the meat in a manner that takes me to Cancun. Yeah baby! I like it like that! All I can say is this sandwich is the best of Mexico with the seasoned meat and toppings. And by eating half the bun, I kept down my carbs.

In the flavor of the times, please enjoy cooked foods and less uncooked. Be careful and be safe.

And most of all, before you eat, please wash your hands! And then enjoy the upcoming time as best as possible, and lets do a Salsa and enjoy Cinco de Mayo in the the best manner possible.  Dr. Tarun Mullick is a specialist trained at Johns Hopkins and Cleveland Clinic in Gastroenterology and Endoscopy based in Geneva. Connect with him at www.mullickmd. com or by phone at 630-232-2025.

HEALTH & WELLNESS MAY 2020

KCMAG May 2020.indd 16

4/30/20 4:38 PM

TELEHEALTH APPOINTMENTS PLEASE CALL 630-232-2025

WWW.DEDUCTIBLESHOP.COM IT'S YOUR DEDUCTIBLE! Why pay thousands more for care, tests, repairs MEDICAL - AUTO - HOME - VET (PETS)

Ask the doctor

Our practice focus is to care for patients to help them and tailor their care individually with current therapies. We receive a lot of questions from patients, friends, and even just those we know casually on many healthcare topics of the day. Here are some common questions we have recently been asked:

Q: Do you offer telehealth? Many don’t? What do you think about that?

A: Yes, we offer telehealth. This means you can get treatment

without leaving your home. We will only bring you in for necessary tests and can choose locations away from hospitals, which likely have more serious COVID-19 patients. It's safer to go to smaller practices and centers, away from hospitals, like ours. In general, it appears telehealth is here to stay for years to come. It presents an alternative. And, for those who don’t like waits, we will call you. Thus, you can continue to do whatever you need to in the meanwhile.

Q: I have other healthcare issues. Do I continue to take care of those?

A: Yes, going to doctor offices and clinics is still fine. They are

smaller sized areas and, like in ours, we are very excessive about cleanliness and sanitizing. A larger hospital is perhaps the area with more people, for which you would want to avoid unless urgent or an emergency. In our community, there are many doctor offices, urgent clinics and centers that are smaller or midsize and away from the the hospital for which you can get great care. Please don’t neglect your other healthcare needs, otherwise those problems can become troublesome to you, while you wait for a virus that most people will combat.

Q: Coronavirus, when do we get back to life?

A: COVID-19 appears to be getting close to flattening the

curve. That being said it will take a while to hit the bottom of the curve where there are a very few new cases. Thus, social distancing will be key for up to one year more until a vaccine is out or or there's enough herd immunity to minimize the risk. It appears that by summer in Illinois we should be able to open up some businesses and restaurants that are able to handle the social distancing guidelines and still function.

Q: Colonoscopy is not the best test out there. Cologuard is better? Is that true?

A: Colonoscopy is the best still. Cologuard is for later stage

testing of growths. It misses earlier polyps. Colon cancer screening is for both men and women. It is preventable, beatable and treatable. Screening starts at 45 unless you have symptoms prior at whatever age or family history of polyps or cancer. Get screened.

LOSE WEIGHT NOW! Connie, Batavia -- “Lost 44 lbs, with Dr. Mullick’s recommended system, and it stayed off.”* Jamie, Geneva -- “Lost 12 pound in my FIRST MONTH!! It really works.

Call for appointment 630-232-2025

Pay LESS for your colonoscopy or endoscopy.

Facility Fees are significantly lower. Cost of health care is going up. Pay less for your test. We are JCAHO certified.

Met your Deductible?? Get in before year end. Save on your deductible. Pay LESS. Heartburn, Diarrhea, Constipation, Liver Disease, Pancreatitis, Abdominal Pain, Colitis, Crohns/ Ulcerative Colitis, Gallbladder, Rectal Bleeding We have quality doctors and team on staff to serve you well. Its our honor to take care of you.

AMERICAN COLONOSCOPY AND ENDOSCOPY CENTER

2631 Williamsburg Ave 301. Geneva, IL. Call now for your appointment. 630-232-2025

IF YOU DO BREAST CANCER SCREENING, GET COLON CANCER SCREENING. It affects men and women BOTH and is the second leading cause of cancer deaths. It is VERY important to get this screening done - colon cancer is beatable and treatable if caught early enough through colon screening.

HEARTBURN PATIENTS PLEASE COME TO GET EVALUATED FOR PRECANCEROUS BARRETT’S; ESOPHAGEAL CANCER HAS INCREASED IN THE PAST 4 DECADES. FREE BOTTLE OF A USANA VITAMIN WITH COMPLETED COLONOSCOPY FOR NEW CLIENTS* *Some restrictions may apply. Available while supply lasts.

Dear Dr. Mullick, My family never had polyps or cancer.

Do I really need a colonoscopy? Jane

Dear Jane: Great question. Colon cancer can affect anyone, regardless of family history. Everyone over age 45 should get a colonoscopy. If you have family history you should start at age 40 or 10 to 15 years before the youngest relative with a problem. Screening helps reduce risk.

Dr. Mullick, I’ve got bloating and gas. Sometimes I have diarrhea or nausea after I eat. Could I have food allergies?

My doctor said it’s IBS (irritable bowel). Kristen

Dear Kristen: Yes, food intolerances to lactose, sucrose and fructose are common, so you may need to avoid those. We have tests in the office for that. The symptoms of IBS and food allergies are often similar, so testing for food allergies is reasonable. We can test for that, too. We have helped many patients diagnosed with food allergies, so it’s not all IBS.

SAVE YOUR LIFE! TELLYOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS

Get colon cancer screening. Beatable, Treatable, Preventable in most situations.

S. from Geneva. “I am glad I had my colonoscopy done at the American Colonoscopy and Endoscopy center. I had some polyps removed and that will likely prevent a cancer.

The facility was wonderful and it saved me money.”

LET’S BEAT IT! 630-232-2025.

BACK PAIN. CARPAL TUNNEL. WRIST PAIN. PAIN IN FOOT. PAIN IN LIMBS

PERIPHERAL NERVE TEST Certified center & trained team.

Call now for your clinic appointment and test date. 630-232-2025.

PPO, Medicare, and Cash payment accepted

*Results may not be typical.

HEALTH & WELLNESS MAY 2020

KCMAG May 2020.indd 17

17

4/30/20 4:38 PM

COUNSELING SERVICES: Adjust to reach those in need

By Chris Walker

T

oilet paper, hand sanitizer and disinfectant wipes might help you feel clean and safe during the chaos of the coronavirus pandemic, but they offer little support for those who are already suffering from anxiety, depression and a weak sense of purpose.

As full-time working moms, Jacobson and Demitro are being impacted by the coronavirus from a personal angle as well, but have found a way to balance everything in their lives, supporting each other and their clients, while also staying in contact with others in their field during these trying times.

Thankfully, Stronger Therapeutic Counseling Services has been able to seamlessly transition into telehealth and continue to help others despite the restrictions caused by COVID-19 to meet face-to-face.

“I would say that another thing we are doing that has really helped build a strong community connection and to learn and check in on each other, is working with those in the Batavia, St. Charles and Geneva therapist community,” Jacobson says. “It’s nice, obviously, to have agencies out there who are in the same boat as us.”

Kelly Jacobson, founder of Stronger Therapeutic Counseling Services and a licensed clinical social worker in Batavia, says that she and social worker Dennise Demitro have remained committed to improving the personal happiness and mental wellness of women and teens regardless if the coronavirus has caused further struggles to mental health.  SETTING PRIORITIES “Our first priority is helping our clients get what they need to get through this time with their mental health because isolation is a symptom of anxiety and depression,” Jacobson says. “Constant thoughts of‘ What if?’ are not healthy. We’re making sure we’re giving them the tools to feel safe at home during this time.”

18

That would include Christine Barker and Brittany Roback, co-owners of Inner Courage Counseling in Naperville and Angel Hernandez, owner of Anchor Counseling in Geneva, among others.  ADJUSTING TO REALITIES “With the telehealth and a larger volume (of clients) that we are now experiencing, we’ve made sure we’re supporting with best practices,” Jacobson says. “It’s not just giving it a good old try, we’ve had to make sure we’re really following HIPAA guidelines and American Counseling guidelines. I think after a few weeks the clients have felt comfortable with how things are compared to what they

were used to.”

Depression, anxiety and relationship issues haven’t gone away because of the coronavirus and life transitions, school issues, selfesteem problems and other stresses haven’t diminished either while folks are locked down.

In fact, many women and teens are suffering now more than ever.

“I think it’s been important to continue to check in with each other,” Jacobson says. “Not everyone was linked in with coping strategies, which has really elevated at this time.”

Jacobson has connected via social media to reach more people, providing some helpful hints easily accessible online.

“Balancing everything at home – working, e-Learning for kids, trying to keep track of screen times and just maintaining some sanity isn’t easy,” she says. “So, I’ve tried to give the moms some tips to utilize so they could kind of pat themselves on the back after doing those things while being mindful, having a little bit of gratitude, and a little more optimism.”

Reach out to Stronger Therapeutic Counseling Services by calling or texting, 847-707-1049.

HEALTH & WELLNESS MAY 2020

KCMAG May 2020.indd 18

4/30/20 4:38 PM

LOCAL CANCER RESOURCE CENTER provides free supportive care

By Pat Szpekowski Photos Provided by Pix by Painter

A

ccording to the National Cancer Institute (NCI), many cancer survivors have indicated that getting involved in positive activities during follow-up care has been essential for their well-being. It’s a healing path and good way to regain some of the control they lost during cancer treatment.

Since opening in 2005, the LivingWell Cancer Resource Center in Geneva has successfully guided thousands of cancer patients on their journey. They have received free supportive care to live full lives during and after their cancer diagnoses and treatments.

its Professional Advisory Committee comprised of top oncologists representing various academic and medical centers.

“When a patient or a loved one is diagnosed with cancer, there is a feeling of standing on the edge of a cliff,” said McCrum. “The LivingWell programs have been developed to help those impacted by cancer physically and mentally adjust to a new normal.”

The LivingWell facility is spacious at over 15,000 square feet. It embodies a spa-like feel as its soothing atmosphere is very warm and bright from the moment a client walks through the door.

All programs at LivingWell have been reviewed by

When a person is diagnosed with cancer, every family member is impacted. LivingWell programs include those supporting children, adolescents and parents.

It is a true resource center with extensive cancer education and information, which anyone from the community can access for free.

Those with cancer who experience hair loss as a result of treatment are able to visit the Wig Boutique.

LivingWell partners with the American Cancer Society/ TLC to provide wigs at no cost and at a reduced cost to cancer patients.

“Whether our clients need emotional support through individual or group sessions or desire to express themselves through creative outlets or movement, our center and team focuses on complete compassionate care,” said Angela McCrum, executive director of LivingWell Cancer Resource Center, part of Northwestern Medicine. McCrum joined the center in July 2019 and is proud of the facility and the programs it provides. She has served in cancer care for the past 26 years, most recently as director of the Northwestern Medicine Chicago Proton Center.

The experienced professional and licensed staff is specially trained to support clients through their cancer journey. “We provide resources and tools to those impacted by cancer,” McCrum notes, “and help them find peace during a stressful time.”

them up for a successful survivorship plan long after they’ve been declared cancer-free.”

LivingWell staff is supported by over 150 volunteers, including former participants. “We have many volunteers who were once participants in LivingWell’s services and now enjoy being able to give back to those in early diagnosis,” said McCrum.

Through group activities, LivingWell clients find social and networking support. They are able to indulge and enjoy carefully crafted programs, such as fitness, yoga, nutritional classes and massage. Clients with creative tendencies or a desire to learn something new can take part in a variety of expressive art programs. There’s journaling, jewelry making, monoprinting, washi, polymer clay, collage, paint, pastels and more.

The important adjunct nature of supportive care is evidence-based medicine. “We know that this type of care helps patients do better,” added McCrum. “It sets

There are many ways the community can get involved through a variety of events, including the 5K Bridge Walk that raises money to critically support LivingWell’s free programs and services for cancer patients. LivingWell also looks forward to its 15th anniversary celebration this fall 2020.

Take a virtual tour of the LivingWell Cancer Resource Center at livingwellcrc.org and follow at Facebook. com/livingwellcrc.  LIVINGWELL CANCER RESOURCE CENTER 442 Williamsburg Ave., Geneva, IL 60134 (630) 262-1111 • livingwellcrc.org

HEALTH & WELLNESS MAY 2020

KCMAG May 2020.indd 19

19

4/30/20 4:38 PM

Optimistic REGIONAL REAL ESTATE OUTLOOK REMAINS

BY CHRIS WALKER

T

he expectations for the regional real estate market came into 2020 with a lion’s roar and, while slightly disrupted, remain very optimistic moving into spring and summer selling seasons. As we head into warmer temperatures and less incumbered movements, analysts agree the overall outlook for buying and selling homes is very strong.

20

HOME & LIFESTYLE MAY 2020

KCMAG May 2020.indd 20

4/30/20 4:39 PM

PLANS TO MEET YOUR EVER CHANGING NEEDS ■ Coverage you can customize to meet your needs ■ Get the most value for your coverage ■ Contact me for a free coverage review

While the elimination of open houses is a challenge the real estate market is facing today, many realtors are still hopeful.

“Houses are still going on the market, and from what we’ve seen, showing activity has slowed down, but it’s not obsolete,” says Melissa Johnson, a real estate agent for RE/MAX in Geneva.

“I worked when nine-eleven happened and that had a much bigger impact where everything pretty much shut down,” says Johnson. “That’s not to say that the longer this goes, the bigger the impact it might have. I know real estate showings have slowed down, but things are still going under contract.”

Virtual tours, Zoom meetings for listing appointments and staging consultations, closings with limited people in attendance and doing paperwork online are just a few of the ways the business has changed during the pandemic.

“It’s definitely a whole new game,” says Stacey Puett, a realtor with the Carl Cho Team of Southwestern Real Estate in Wheaton.

“I do think once things go back to some semblance of normalcy the market will boom.”

Usually when spring arrives, local realtors and mortgage lenders are quite active. This year the coronavirus interrupted the scene before that spring excitement for buyers and sellers had a chance to truly get started. Regardless, there seems to be a consensus that transactions will remain slow for now, but eventually come back.

“We may be taking a hit right now, but we’re all very hopeful that this is going

to come back and come back big,” says Renee Dee, a realtor for Southwestern Real Estate in Sugar Grove. “Right now, people are hunkering down for two or three months and doing a lot of soul searching, penny pinching and making big decisions, and when that happens, people move. Everyone needs a place to live. Marriages will happen, divorces will happen, jobs change, people become empty nesters. Do they want to downsize? When people quarantine this long, they make some big life decisions.”

Ann Kothe, a real estate agent for Keller Williams Inspire in Geneva, says some homes are going quickly while higherprice points are struggling.

“If you’re a buyer looking at under $300,000 or $350,000, houses are still going fast,” she says. “In the higher price points, it’s been slower moving, but it’s still moving. The higher price point is struggling between tax ramifications and write-offs and it’s a huge hit for Illinois because property taxes are so high.”

Harry Stout Yo Local Agent Your 11 S 2ND AVE STE 3 ST CHARLES, IL 60174 HSTOUT@FARMERSAGENT.COM https://agents.farmers.com/hstout

Call 847.640.0402 today!

For Home, Auto, Life and Business.

Restrictions apply. Discounts may vary. Not available in all states. See your agent for details. Insurance is underwritten by Farmers Insurance Exchange and other affiliated insurance companies. Visit farmers.com for a complete listing of companies. Not all insurers are authorized to provide insurance in all states. Coverage is not available in all states.

Serving the Fox Valley and Surrounding Area

While it’s impossible to predict what will happen this summer or where the real estate market will be a year from now, realtors and lenders expect to be busy.

“Lenders are trying to be so cooperative, so I feel it’s only going to help us, even if it’s four to six months from now,” Dee says. “All buyers aren’t jumping on the bandwagon, but some are a little bit, and I think they’ll be ready to purchase once they are released from the quarantine. Maybe we’ll have a stronger summer or fall market in Kane County than we typically do or it’ll be next spring.” History says there’s good reason to be optimistic.

Reliable Heating & Cooling Services for When It Counts

Why McNally’s?

Honest, upfront, competitive pricing 10-year limited labor warranty on installs, 2-year limited warranty on repairs All work thoroughly tested Professional, punctual and courteous service techs

FREE ESTIMATE

6 3 0 . 3 6 3 . 9 0 6 7 | mcnallyhvac.com SM-CL1772110

HOME & LIFESTYLE MAY 2020

KCMAG May 2020.indd 21

21

4/30/20 4:39 PM

Spring Tips for healthy gardening

By Kevin Druley

The arrival of spring ushers in the innate needs for many homeowners to till the soil, plant the seeds, and think about the bounty of beauty and tasty vegetables that will await in months to come.

22

For Tim Norris, owner of Spring Bluff Nursery, 41W130 Road, Sugar Grove, getting into the soil presents plenty of opportunities for people, amateurs and veterans of gardening and landscaping alike, to put efforts into something that gives back plenty of rewards.

Whether 2020 marks your first attempt at planting perennials or your fortieth, consider this insight into do-it-yourself home gardening and landscape projects from Norris and Matt Zerby, owner of Wasco Nursery & Garden Center, 41W781 Route 64, St. Charles.  HOLD THE PHONE – ALOFT In past seasons, various Wasco

Nursery customers would show staff iPhone photos of their backyards or garden spaces to receive help with positioning or choosing appropriate trees or plants.

While the garden spaces at Wasco and Spring Bluff remain open to foot traffic, the Wasco staff is offering similar consultations to those who email photos. Those interested in receiving feedback can contact sales@wasconursery. com.  SPOIL YOUR SOIL Re-edging landscaped flower beds, removing debris and laying fresh mulch all are vital steps to

preparing soil for the spring. This can especially pay dividends for those planting produce. “You’ve got to put some nutrition into the ground in order to get nutrition out of the fruit or vegetable,” Zerby says. “Putting down composts and manures and things like that at this time of year would be a very wise decision.”  TIME OF THE SEASON Cold-crop vegetables safe to plant early in the season include cabbage, kale, lettuce, broccoli, cauliflower and brussels sprouts.

Once warmer weather nears, tomatoes, peppers, squash, zucchini and cucumbers are OK to

HOME & LIFESTYLE MAY 2020

KCMAG May 2020.indd 22

4/30/20 4:39 PM

CurbSide pick-up toma

plant. Mid-May generally is a safe range for planting annuals, says Norris and Zerby.  DON’T BE SHY In Norris’ experience, some gardening greenhorns grow tentative when working or maneuvering around plants for the first time. In Norris’ opinion, they shouldn’t. “It’s not brain surgery,” he says. “Little mistakes (don’t) mean you’re going to kill the plant.

You just might lose the blossoms for next year.”  KNOW WHAT’S NATIVE When choosing a plant, “you have to know what zone you’re in and you have to know the plant’s requirement,” Norris says. “You can’t plant a sun-loving plant in the shade and you can’t plant a shadeloving plant in the sun.”

toes

 FORGET FANTASIES “One of the biggest mistakes I see,” Norris says, occurs when budding gardeners become tied to a design or concept they see online or in a magazine. This often prompts them to neglect the work – and capital – it takes to keep things pristine.

“Unless they’ve got money to pay somebody to maintain them to look like that magazine spread, then they’re going to be overwhelmed.”

FoxFire Restaurant understands this is a trying time for everyone, and is very thankful for the community's support throughout everything we have been through together.

They've created several dining options for customers to enjoy in order to save money without sacrificing quality! Consider ordering a delicious Burger Box, Romantic Steak Dinner for 2, or many of their family meal options including steak, ribs, meatloaf, pasta and more. Please visit: foxfiregeneva.com for more information. Curbside and delivery options available!

FOXFIRE RESTAURANT

17 W State St, Geneva, IL 60134 (630) 232-1369 | foxfiregeneva.com

 HAPPY NEW YEAR Trying to salvage something out of seeds purchased in 2019, or earlier, is probably not worth your time.

“Generally, unless they’re really well kept and cared for,” Zerby says, “seeds tend not to do very well from season to season. With most garden seeds, you’d want to replace them.”

HOME & LIFESTYLE MAY 2020

KCMAG May 2020.indd 23

23

4/30/20 4:39 PM

Keeping it Specializing in household cleaning supplies during the in COVID-19 era

By Vicki Martinka Petersen

he message on Best Vac’s website sums up their role toward helping customers during the COVID-19 pandemic: “A properly working vacuum cleaner, air purifier and cleaning supplies can be very important for some consumers and businesses so we will continue to operate.”

Like many other small businesses, it’s not business as usual for this shop in St. Charles. The store is open less hours and owner Ron Vohs and his wife are the only ones answering the phones and processing orders.

Curbside pickup, shipping, and appointments with safety restrictions for the purchase of vacuums and air purifiers are available to customers.

“It’s quite a balance as a small business owner. We need to stay open to make money, but we also need to be there to spend time with our kids,” explains Vohs.  CLEANING SUPPLIES With more people staying at home, people have time to do extra cleaning and work on projects around the house. The majority of customers are coming to Best Vac for essential needs such as repairs to their vacuum cleaners or to pick up vacuum bags if they run out.

Air purification is a hot button issue now as people become more contentious about the air they’re breathing. “We’ve talked a lot about how it takes events like this for people to think about air quality,”

24

Vohs says.  EASY PICKUP With cleaning supply shortages at grocery stores, many people have been coming to Best Vac for commercial sanitize cleaners.

The store already sold out of two pallets worth of cleaners between customers and word of mouth with plans to keep selling more. The store also sells microfiber rags.

One thing that is business as usual for Best Vac is sanitizing surfaces both inside and outside of the store.

“Under normal circumstances, we service hundreds of vacuums – bringing in dirt from all those households. We’ve always been very particular about how we purify the air in the store and keeping our workstations clean,” Vohs says.

For the time being, Best Vac will continue providing curbside service of essential needs to keep everyone safe and maintain some cash flow.

Whenever things return to some sense of normal, Vohs hopes people will remember to keep shopping local.

“We have household cleaning supplies if you feel safer coming here rather than shopping at a big box store,” he adds.  BEST VAC 2015 Dean Street, Ste. 3, St. Charles (630) 377-3539 | bestvac.co

HOME & LIFESTYLE MAY 2020

KCMAG May 2020.indd 24

4/30/20 4:39 PM

TOM’S COOKBOOK LIBRARY:

Beyond Borscht Old World Recipes from Ukraine and Eastern Europe

By TOM WITOM

F

ood blogger and recipe innovator Tatyana Nesteruk is steadily gaining recognition as an expert in Eastern Europe cuisine.

Her long-awaited second cookbook, Beyond Borscht [Page Street], went on sale in late March. “‘Beyond Borscht’ is a collection of old-world, nostalgic Eastern European recipes from Ukraine, Russia and Poland that have persevered over many generations and in many countries around the world,” Nesteruk writes in introductory remarks.

If you are a Slavic person, the book is designed to reignite your love for traditional dishes.

Meanwhile, those just getting familiar with the bill of fare also will find much to like, Nesteruk adds.

Among Nesteruk’s “delicious,

hearty and comforting meals” are Chicken Kiev, Pelmeni (Dumplings) with Creamy Dill Sauce, Chicken Shashliki (Kabobs) and Chicken Buckwheat Soup (see accompanying recipe).

Tempting dessert-list options are Napoleon Torte, Cherry Vareniki and Waffle Rolls with Caramel Filling, among others.

Born in Yekaterinburg, Russia, Nesteruk was raised in the United States where she currently calls Sacramento, California home. Her portfolio includes authoring “The European Cake Cookbook” and founder of Tatyana’s Everyday Food, a popular cooking blog and YouTube channel.

 Journalist Tom Witom, who lives in

Elgin, has written extensively for years about food and the food industry. Contact him at editorial@kcchronicle.com.

CHICKEN BUCKWHEAT SOUP (SERVES 4) • 6 cups chicken broth • Grapeseed oil, as needed • 1 to 1 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cubed • 2 teaspoons salt, plus more as needed, divided • 10 to 12 white mushrooms, thinly sliced • 1 large onion, diced • 2 medium carrots, diced

• 2 large ribs celery, diced • 4 cloves garlic, minced • teaspoon ground black pepper

• teaspoon smoked paprika • 1 cup buckwheat • 2 Tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley

• 4 Tablespoons finely chopped fresh dill

In a large pot over medium heat, combine the broth and water. Let the liquid warm while you move on to the next step.

Preheat a large skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of oil. Add the chicken, season it with salt as necessary and fry 5 to 6 minutes, until it is well browned all over. Transfer the chicken to the pot.

To the same skillet, add the mushrooms and more oil to prevent sticking, if necessary. Sauté the mushrooms for 6 to 7 minutes, until they are browned. Season the mushrooms lightly with salt and transfer them to the pot.

In the same skillet, combine the onion, carrots and celery. Saute the mixture for about 5 minutes, until the onion is translucent Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Transfer the mixture to the pot.

Season the soup with the remaining 2 teaspoons of salt, black pepper, coriander and smoked paprika. Cover the pot, increase the heat to medium-high and bring the soup to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer the soup for10 minutes, then add the buckwheat. Continue cooking the soup over medium-low heat for 20 minutes, until the buckwheat is tender. Season the soup with the parsley and dill and serve.

DINING & ENTERTAINING MAY 2020

KCMAG May 2020.indd 25

25

4/30/20 4:39 PM

ADDS HOME-STYLE COOKING TO FAMED BEER PAIRINGS

By Chris Walker | Photos Provided

F

or Melissa Monno, owner of River’s Edge Bar & Grill in Batavia, her established dining menu has made some spring adjustments to offer more home-style cooking and family-style options.

This spring was no time to become stagnate and the local culinary favorite was up for the challenge.

The changes have enhanced the options for standard to-go and carryout orders, while also including the opportunity to enjoy the signature beer pairings River’s Edge has become renown for providing its patrons.

“I was actually planning on doing some rebuilding, so I had been talking behind the scenes with our chef (Rick Kaniuga) and front of house staff,” Monno says. “We’re doing the homestyle cooking and that has gone well and we’re now looking at more familystyle options for the summer months.

I already had the name (Curbside

26

Supper Club) in mind so I figured let’s throw it out into the world and see how it goes.”

 CURBSIDE SUPPER Lasagna, London broil, pot roast, roast turkey, vegetarian sausage and peppers, meatloaf as well as Impossible loaf and lemon & herb chicken were just a handful of the Curbside Supper Club offerings in March and April.

Entrees have proved to be comforting, delicious as well as unique with a wide selection of delicious side items, including mac and cheese, mashed potatoes, grilled veggies, broccoli and cheese and more.

“Our chef is great,” says Monno. “He recently did Beef Bourguignon off of an old family recipe and then did his own take of Braciole, which is from an old recipe on my family’s side. I think it’s just creative what we can

do and it gives us more options. Now we’re working on some more Midwest classics, so we’ve sort of had it loosely themed.”

River’s Edge, which had a week of Italian-themed dinners in March, also deserves props for including coq au vin as a supper club entrée in early April, giving many people stuck living in their first pandemic their first taste of what was Jack Tripper’s signature dish on Three’s Company.

 FROM THE BAR Although folks have been unable to dine in River’s Edge, they’ve been able to purchase more than Bud in bottles to take home with them, choosing from a diverse selection of fine craft beers as part of their Curbside Supper Club order or without it. Of course, with as successful as the beer pairing dinners have been at River’s Edge in the past, this has allowed patrons to have their own beer pairings at home.

“I’ve been so thankful for the response,” Monno says. “We have two full-time and one part-time bartender, and we’re splitting all the tips that are coming in to try to keep them going.

We’re going to bring food to some women and children in need at Mutual Ground and are planning on doing something for first responders.”

She also has tried to keep a connection going with her customers via an active social media presence on Facebook. She invited people to send in old photos of their families around the dinner table for a contest with a great grand prize of dinner for six. Other contests may follow, so Facebook is a great way to stay connected with River’s Edge.  RIVER’S EDGE BAR & GRILL 12 N. River St., Batavia 630-406-9200

DINING & ENTERTAINING MAY 2020

KCMAG May 2020.indd 26

4/30/20 4:39 PM

Geneva date set for

BRIDAL Stroll troll

By Pat Szpekowski

M

eander the lovely, quaint streets and make Geneva your ‘happily ever after’ during this year’s inaugural Bridal Stroll on Sunday, November 8. It’s never too early to mark the date in your calendar as the Geneva Chamber of Commerce plans a spectacular wedding preview for the fall.

Brides-to-be can bring their fiancé, family and friends to gather a myriad of ideas to create a dream wedding. While strolling along at your own pace, there’s an opportunity to visit a variety of shops and wedding venues, as well as meet the wedding professionals who are eager to help.  WHY A BRIDAL STROLL? “We decided to create this Bridal Stroll event because Geneva is the perfect town for planning and having a wedding reception,” says Robyn Chione, membership director Geneva Chamber of Commerce. “Venues such as The Herrington, Oscar Swan, and Riverside Receptions and Conference Center provide a warm and welcoming atmosphere for the perfect wedding experience. Plus, we have a wide variety of unique bridal and specialty shops for every taste and budget.”

Geneva Chamber members, such as Nikki Barr, owner of LoveTheoryBridal at 407 South State St. in Geneva, is looking forward to the event. “I am one of the stops on the stroll and I’m inviting all of the attendees to stop into my shop,” says Barr. “Check out our glam

boutique and see bridal gowns, handmade bridal accessories, designer veils, and beautiful wedding shoes I have personally curated with them in mind.”

Barr says she will also assist the chamber with activities and giveaways to make sure the event is successful and fun for every participant.  PERSONAL ATTENTION “An event like a Bridal Stroll is a fun way to let brides know that small wedding shops like mine, and other businesses here in Geneva, are here for them during their wedding planning,” Barr says. “This is the perfect event for us to get to know our brides and personally connect with them.”

Chione hopes that attendees at the Geneva Bridal Stroll will be inspired and enjoy every minute of it. “With all of the available options, including businesses offering catering, wedding photography, wedding invitations, and more,” says Chione, “I hope brides will make connections, take some notes, and come back to explore and meet our vendors once again to complete their wedding list plans.”

More information on the Geneva Bridal Stroll will be available soon at genevachamber.com.

DINING & ENTERTAINING MAY 2020

KCMAG May 2020.indd 27

27

4/30/20 4:39 PM

Batavia

BOARDWALK New Batavia Boardwalk Shops prepare for opening day

By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske | Photos Provided

F

or years Kelly Desmond of Geneva has packed up her inventory of home décor and traveled among craft shows and artisan markets to sell her wares. This summer, she’ll be staying a lot closer to home.

Desmond is one of eight new businesses moving into the Batavia Boardwalk Shops in the heart of the downtown at Route 25 and Wilson Street. The eight, single-unit shops are set to open May 30.

“It’s cute,” says Desmond, a former

28

interior decorator who began crafting her modern, handmade goods about 11 years ago. “And to be a part of this new Batavia Boardwalk was really attractive.”

Jamie Saam, who serves on the committee to manage the Batavia Boardwalk Shops, says the project is modeled after a similar program that found success in Muskegon, Michigan and is supported through a grant from the city of Batavia. Each applicant submitted a business plan for the

committee to review. The committee aimed to find varied businesses.

“This brings eight new stores to the community at one time,” Saam says.

“This gives the businesses a chance to take a step and grow and see if their business has legs.”

Baker Haylie Bollweg has spent the last few months perfecting recipes for the launch of Haylie B’s Bakery at the Batavia Boardwalk Shops. She plans to sell cupcakes, cookies, brownies and other delicious treats. She’s gained

BUSINESS & CIVIC MAY 2020

KCMAG May 2020.indd 28

4/30/20 4:39 PM

experience working for other bake shops and says she’s excited to launch what has been a side business from her kitchen and hone her business skills.

“As soon as I heard about the opportunity I thought it was awesome,” Bollweg says. “My end goal is I’d love to have a store.”

Other shops scheduled to open will be selling items including home décor, hand-crafted woodworks, fruit and granola bowls and pet accessories.

Sherri Wilcox, executive director of Batavia Main Street, called the program an incubator project, giving many businesses the opportunity to move beyond their homes and local fairs to having a business based in one location with consistent weekly store hours.

The selected businesses will pay rent, maintain store hours throughout the week with required hours Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays through October.

“Our goal is we’d like to see every one

of these eight businesses sign a lease in town,” Wilcox says. “We’re thrilled to give these businesses a place to start.”

Desmond has been a part of local artesian markets and has a strong online presence, but she’s excited to see if her customer base will support her in a retail location. “The ability to take these small steps will make it much easier,” Desmond says, adding that she had recently looked at a retail space, but didn’t feel ready to make the commitment yet.

Each business will benefit from support, from each other and the larger business community. There will be marketing and promotions through the Batavia Main Street as well as personalized support from its partners including the Business Development Center at Wabaunsee Community College.

“I’m still getting calls from those interested in the space,” Wilcox says.

“We expect to have more shops next year.”

BUSINESS & CIVIC MAY 2020

KCMAG May 2020.indd 29

29

4/30/20 4:39 PM

It

Won’t Happen To Me…

E

ach day Ivy, one of my rescue dogs, and I have been coming in, unlocking our building so that mail can be delivered to the lobby, and settling in at our office preparing for a seemingly endless set of online meetings. Normally our building is a hub of activity with five businesses ambitiously contributing to the economy. Now I feel like I’m filming a sequel to Will Smith’s I am Legend and am wondering when the zombies may start to appear.

At least everyone working from home will be safe...

30

BUSINESS & CIVIC MAY 2020

KCMAG May 2020.indd 30

4/30/20 4:39 PM

With Illinois’ Shelter In Place order having started on Saturday, March 21st, and most states now having implemented similar restrictions, we have all had plenty of time to reflect on this invisible predator and our own mortality. With markets gyrating with historically high volatility, instead of sharing market commentary this month and risking that the lag between writing and publishing might make the perspective stale I wanted instead to share some broader perspective on lessons we are either learning or which we find ourselves reminded of including the following:  ‘LIFE INSURANCE MAY BE A GOOD IDEA AFTER ALL…’ Nothing like a pandemic to bring one to the realization that if something horrible were to happen your loved ones may not be left in the position you’d have hoped. Extrapolate that same thought out to your business. If you were suddenly taken out of the picture, are there appropriate liquid assets available to make sure that all is well? If you are uncertain, you’ve answered your own question and need to do something about addressing this gap.  ‘ABOUT THAT SUCCESSION PLAN…’ Whether contemplating your personal estate or your business, the lack of proper planning for succession is notable and is an unnecessary problem. You may have seen some of the same news stories as I have where young doctors and others on the front lines suddenly scramble to update their estate plan.  ‘ABOUT MY APPETITE FOR RISK…’ Nothing like the fastest decline to a bear market in history to cause one to ponder what their real risk appetite is for their investments. All too often an investor’s risk tolerance is discussed when they first open an account and then not revisited. The problem can be compounded if the portfolio was not rebalanced with rigor. We see prospective clients’ portfolios that have grown to be far more aggressive than they realized thanks to a bull market of record length. The result can be a strong temptation to have become much more conservative at the worst possible time. If you are a long-term investor, selling equities at the bottom of a bear market is the worst possible time to do so. You are probably better off waiting until markets have recovered and then reassessing your appetite for risk then.

My teammate, Sharon, and I have one last observation to share and that is that all of the above can all be prefaced with a disclaimer, sometimes uttered silently, which is “It won’t happen to me, but…”. Whether planning for your family or for your business, you can’t afford to think that these are all good ideas for others but that they don’t apply to you. Commit to putting yourself in the best position possible and reach out to your advisors today to do so. If you need a fresh set of eyes, give us a call. We are here for you.

This material is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal or tax advice and is not intended to replace the advice of a qualified attorney, tax advisor, or plan provider.

FILE# 3040188.

 Tom McCartney is the Founding Principal of My

Advisor & Planner and a registered representative and investment advisory representative with M Securities. Investments in securities involve risks, including the possible loss of principal. My Advisor & Planner is independently owned and operated.

McCartney and his team can be reached at info@ mapyourfuture.net or 630-457-4068.

Securities and Investment Advisory Services offered through M Holdings Securities, Inc. (Member FINRA/SIPC).

My Advisor & Planner is independently owned and operated.

Photo by Indre Cantero

File #0709-2018

BUSINESS & CIVIC MAY 2020

KCMAG May 2020.indd 31

31

4/30/20 4:39 PM

Home Is Where the Hearth Is

Visit our show room to see over 40 burning models on display. See a wide selection of electric, gas, and wood fireplaces designed to enhance the warmth and beauty of your home. You’ll also find a full line of mantels, fireplace screens, and hearth accessories to complete the picture.

Sales • Service • Installation

1255 Bowes Road, Elgin (847) 741-6464 • thehouseoffireplaces.com Monday-Friday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. | Thursday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. | Saturday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

KCMAG May 2020.indd 32

4/30/20 4:39 PM