KC Magazine_ January 2020

Tips to save your 2020 vision PAGE 16

Acupuncture for aging skin PAGE 18

JANUARY 2020

Brilliant books to kick off the new year PAGE 36

NEW YEAR ou! y w ne

Fun ways to stay fit through the season | KCMag January 2020.indd 1

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Home Is Where the Hearth Is

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Editor's

NOTE Happy 2020!

A year of vision, looking ahead at all that is to come – in work, with family and friends, and in all things that matter most.

Each January, it is natural to consider the future that lay before us. Maybe that’s why so many folks make resolutions – to work hard but stress less, spend more time with the people closest to us, or perhaps learn something new.

All this, and much more follow in the pages of the January edition of KC Magazine. We hope you’ll make a resolution to spend some time with us, each and every month, as part of your 2020 calendar.

Thanks for reading!

Whatever your resolution, your hope or your focus in 2020, we at KC Magazine wish you all the best as you move through the year.

In this month’s edition of KC Magazine, we offer what we hope will be some valuable help in those pursuits. Our “New Year, New You” lineup includes books to guide you on your journey, recommended by our own local bookshops, and suggestions for reducing stress, chaos and negativity in your home.

We visit an acupuncturist to inquire about facial therapies with anti-aging as the focus, and a local salon owner shares tips for skin care and makeup to keep us feeling and looking vibrant throughout the year.

Even our adventurist, Pete Stadalsky, takes a new years slant, offering a look at what happens when you “pay it forward” for the benefit of others.

Sherri Dauskurdas, D k d Editor Editor’s note: As the New Year is a time of rebirth, it also is a time we often move on from old endeavors to new ones. For myself, this will be my last month as KC Magazine’s editor, as I am destined to begin a new adventure. I offer thanks to our readers for their ongoing support, and also to the many people who have allowed us into their lives so that we may share their stories. It has been my honor to tell each and every one.

Wishing you all 2020 vision in the coming new year!

on the

COVER

Why have a boring workout? St. Charles Park District has lots of options to keep fit while having fun, all season long. Page 14.

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PUBLISHER Daily Chronicle & Suburban Weekly Group Laura Shaw 630-709-4497 lshaw@shawmedia.com EDITOR Sherri Dauskurdas 630-427-6263 sdauskurdas@shawmedia.com DESIGNER Allison LaPorta 630-427-6260 alaporta@shawmedia.com LOCAL SALES MANAGER Daily Chronicle & Niche Publishing Jaclyn Cornell 630-845-5234 jcornell@shawmedia.com CORRESPONDENTS Aimee Barrows, Jonathon Bilyk, Pete Stadalsky, Melissa Riske, Chrissy Somers, Tom Witom, Vicki Martinka Petersen, Chris Walker and Diane Krieger Spivak

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

JANUARY

2020

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INSIDE

What's

FASHION AND BEAUTY 7 LOOKING GOOD IN 2020 Keeping skin bright and shiny the whole year through.

10 SKIN DEEP Learn how cosmetic acupuncture can help with anti-aging

HOME AND LIFESTYLE 12 MAKE YOUR PEACE Create a living space that brings balance and harmony to your day 14 JANUARY IN THE GARDEN Winter is actually a good time for having a heart to heart with your garden.

HEALTH AND WELLNESS 16 EXPERIENCE FITNESS What des fitness look like to you? Find great options from the St. Charles Park District.

18 VISION 2020 Stay bright eyed with tips for healthy long-term vision .

20 WHAT IS CBD? Understanding the possible benefits of this popular oil for wellness .

DINING AND ENTERTAINING 22 EAT HEALTHY, EVEN WHEN YOU’RE OUT Meat lovers rejoice! With healthy options from a popular barbecue spot.

24 NO MUSS, NO FUSS Tom’s Cookbook Library reviews a book of simple recipes for easy, delicious meal prep.

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FUN FACTS 26 FUN FACTS FOR 2020 grab your calendars and a good pen, you don’t want to miss these fun themed events.

FAMILY IN FOCUS 30 DON’T WASTE A MOMENT Suburban dad Jon Bilyk urges us to avoid getting caught up in the busy moment, and savor the seasons for all they offer.

32 CHEERS TO SELF-HEALTH The New Year represents new opportunities for us all, but more often than not, we usually don’t make goals about our mental health.

BUSINESS AND CIVIC 34 PROTECTING YOUR NUMBER ONE ASSET Your most valuable asset is your ability to earn an income, yet we often overlook this when planning.

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT 36 BOOKS TO CHANGE YOUR LIFE When you’re looking for more than mere distraction, your local book sellers offer their favorites.

38 CALENDAR OF EVENTS so much fun on the horizon…don’t miss a thing!

TRAVEL 41 TRAIL ANGELS Wherever your journey takes you, there are folks paying it forward.

JANUARY

2020

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Looking good in 2020

KEEPING SKIN BRIGHT AND SHINY THE WHOLE YEAR THROUGH

BY MELISSA RUBALCABA RISKE

I

t started with a bright shade of blue accented with glitter and some fruit-scented lip gloss. As children there was an excitement and eagerness to play with makeup.

Through the years we continue to feel excitement and sometimes confusion as we seek the right choices and mix in the ever changing needs of our own bodies.

As the candles on the cake continue to increase it isn’t just a matter of picking the right colors, but also considering how to maintain our skin’s health and longevity.

Ami Christianson, owner of The One Salon and Bridal Company in St. Charles says the key in some basic self-care starts with plenty of hydration.

“We need to hydrate internally and externally so drink a ton of water,” she says.

For the external hydration Christianson recommends the topical hyaluronic acid serum, which can be found in many popular skin care brands and makeup brands.

And she says, don’t forget to use sunscreen, either on its own or in moisturizer and foundation. Christianson is a strong advocate for maintaining sunscreen year round.

Christianson has more than 30 years of beauty experience. She’s worked in small and large salons and even has experience in the corporate side of beauty trends before transplanting 20 years ago from Madison, Wisc., to Geneva and now, St. Charles where she owns her own salon.

“I’m a huge advocate for using clean products,”

Christianson says. “It’s important to consider what chemicals are present and what you are putting on your skin.

The less ingredients, the safer it is going to be for your skin and the less chance you have of having a reaction to the product. That is important to me and should be important to anybody using skincare and makeup.”

As our skin ages, powder foundation may be less optimal. Christianson says she recommends trying a tinted-moisturizing cream, sometimes called CC or BB creams, which are more sheer and lightweight. Another popular trend is the foundation sticks. Both of these options will help the skin to reflect light and create a dewy effect “These are very light and have a lot light reflective capabilities,” Christianson says.

Another routine change is swapping powder blush for a cream blush which is a great fit for a natural, anti-aging look, she says.

“It’s really a hot trend right now and it offers a natural glow,” Christianson says.

And while creams and colors can accent features, Christianson says real beauty comes from within ourselves.

“Be your own kind of beautiful,” she adds. “I have that quote on my door.”

XXX JANUARY 2020

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Self care

Merle Norman

518 W. STATE ST., GENEVA | 630-232-0098 | WWW.MERLENORMAN.COM

Stop into Merle Norman Cosmetics, your full service skincare and cosmetics store where you can ccozy up with our winter collection. Discover the newest shades in eye shadows and cheek colors for subtle beauty and check out our ultra powder foundation, available in over 30 shades!

Our beauty eexperts can assist you with skincare, makeup, ear piercing,, manicures and pedicures. We also offer waxing aand a full service hair salon for men and women.

M Merle Norman has been dedicated to crafting the perfect products for your skin for over 88 years.

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FASHION & BEAUTY JANUARY 2020

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Time for Comfort Foods!

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SKIN DEEP Learn how cosmetic acupuncture can help with anti-aging

By Vicki Martinka Petersen

As we get older, those little lines around your mouth from years of smiling and laughing with your kids suddenly seem to become more prominent. As do the lines on your forehead from every worry that’s crept up throughout adulthood.

While researching anti-aging remedies, you might come across cosmetic or facial acupunctures. This non-invasive treatment works to stimulate collagen in the skin.

“Too much sun exposure, not wearing sunscreen, smoking – these are all things that destroy the collagen in our skin. With cosmetic acupuncture, we try to rejuvenate that collagen and the blood flow to that area as well as circulation,” explains Rob Gregory, a chiropractor and acupuncturist at Longevity Health and Fitness in St. Charles.

Cosmetic acupuncture also helps work the muscle area in the face.

“This area gets a lot of repetitive use, such as smile lines.

The needles help relax the tissue in this area,” Gregory adds.

According to the Acupuncture Now Foundation, acupuncture involves inserting fine wires (needles) in specific areas to stimulate the body. The practice also helps restore body function.

People hesitant about needles might be skeptical of trying any type of acupuncture treatment. But Gregory says the needles are very small, especially the ones used in facial acupunctures.

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FASHION & BEAUTY JANUARY 2020

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GETTING STARTED Before you head to your appointment, you’ll want to eat a few hours ahead of time to make sure you have plenty of energy.

Once you arrive at the office, you’ll get an exam which will include going over your medical history, and ask questions about your personal health, including your menstrual cycle, whether you tend to be hot or cold and questions specific to Chinese medicine to determine your chi (energy flow).

“We want to evaluate any chi deficiencies.

For example, if you have poor lung chi you might have dry skin,” Gregory says.

Additionally, the provider will check your blood pressure and heart rate, and examine your body and skin. The exam also includes checking the tongue for color, shape, texture and coating as the tongue represents different parts of the body.

After the exam, it’s time to begin with traditional body acupuncture. This is done first to get the body back into balance. For

example, traditional body acupuncture will help get the kidneys and lungs back on track if those are out of balance, Gregory explains.

Next comes the acupuncture facial, which targets wrinkles and lines.

Don’t worry if you feel tired after the procedure – Gregory says that’s completely normal.

“It’s like a workout. You might feel tired at first, but after awhile you’ll feel good,” says Gregory. “You’re moving energy around the body.”

At Longevity Health and Fitness, cosmetic acupuncture is sold as a 10-session package.

Typically people pay up to $150 per session or $1,500 for the full service. Gregory says his practice charges $50 per session.

Regular acupuncture takes about 20 minutes and cosmetic acupuncture takes a little longer, about 20 to 30 minutes. It can take about five minutes to apply the needles depending on the number used. If there are fine lines around the eye and mouth, it will take longer as two to three needles can be used in one spot.

LASTING IMPACT After a session, you’ll want to avoid intensive exercise for about an hour. Gregory recommends drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated. You’ll also want to avoid cold foods and be sure to keep your body warm.

How long the results last from cosmetic acupuncture depend on how hard people are on their bodies. For example, someone who is exposed a lot to the sun might notice an impact on his or her treatment.

“Unnecessary sun exposure, not using sunscreen or smoking, can all damage collagen and cause stress in the body,” Gregory says.

Overall, cosmetic acupuncture is the safest modality in term of pain and cosmetic procedures used for anti-aging.

“It’s a low risk for a significant reward.

Acupuncture helps keep the body balance and function the way it should,” Gregory adds.

FASHION & BEAUTY JANUARY 2020

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MAKE YOUR

Create a living space that brings balance and harmony to your day

By Vicki Martinka Petersen

ith the new year comes the annual tradition of making resolutions to improve aspects of your life. This year, why not make a resolution to set up your house for more peaceful living?

“Peacefulness begins at home. If you can’t be relaxed at home, where else can you go for comfort and relaxation?” asks Tammy McCure, assistant manager of Crystal Life Technology in Geneva.

From clearing away clutter to adding elements such as salt lamps or soothing sounds, professionals say there are a variety of ways to bring peacefulness into your home.

These are not necessarily scientific methods, but rather a variety of suggestions others have found to be beneficial, some with long and varied histories of use throughout the world.

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CLEANSING THE AIR

If it’s your first time cleansing the air and energy in your home, you’ll want to begin by setting an intention for this project. McCure suggests having a positive intention, such as creating peace and harmony in the home, as opposed to a negative intention, such as to stop arguing with family members.

It’s also good to clear away clutter in your house. Start from the basement, and work your way up through the house. Open a window to allow the negative energies to flow out during the process, McCure says. (The fresh air doesn’t hurt, either.)

From there, try the ancient practice of clearing a space with burning sage.

Also known as smudging, it involves literally burning the sage leaves and letting the smoke purify the air in your home. Light the bundled herb, then place it in a shell or ceramic pot. Let

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“You can buy the tools to cleanse your home, but you also need to take time for your personal growth and to resolve conflicts. Real peace begins within.”

Tammy McCure Crystal Life Technology

it burn a few moments and then fan the flames out with a feather. to fan the smoke. Native Americans and other indigenous peoples have burned sage for centuries as part of a spiritual ritual to cleanse a person or space, and to promote healing and wisdom.

PRODUCTS FOR PEACE

Once your home is clear of clutter, stale air and even bad energy, you may consider adding some complementary products to your living space help achieve your goals of peace and order. Here are a few tools McCure suggests to help get you started.  SALT LAMPS The healing aspects of Himalayan salt have gained popularity in recent years, and people are finding health benefits from time spent in salt-lined rooms, or “caves” as well as from adding small salt lamps to their work and living spaces.

Positive ions often creep up in the home due to our consumption of technology. To counteract this, salt lamps are said to negate these positive ions to help cleanse the air and create a positive environment, McCure explains. Typically you’ll place a salt lamp near places you spend a lot of time, such as your favorite reading chair.

 CRYSTALS Precious stones have been thought of as objects that can aid in healing by a variety of cultures, from Native American tribes to Medieval and Early Modern Europe until the 17th century. Today, crystals often are used as part of the new age spiritual movement. Proponents of crystal therapy believe that crystals act as conduits for healing — allowing positive, healing energy to flow into the body, or room, as negative, and even diseasecausing energy flows out.

When used in a home, crystals typically are placed in a central location, such as the living room, where people hang out the most, or on the doorframe to clear energy as people walk into a room. Looking for ideas? McCure says selenite helps alleviate conflict and brings in a peaceful energy. Rose quartz often is be placed in bedrooms, said to help keep love in a relationship or to offer unconditional love to yourself and others. Black tourmaline is said to offer protection from negative energies.  SINGING BOWL Tibetan singing bowls are a type of bell that vibrates and produces a rich, deep tone when played. Buddhist monks have long used Tibetan singing bowls in meditation practice. In addition, some holistic wellness

practitioners use Tibetan singing bowls during treatment. Most of all, the vibrating sounds create stress free relaxation, McCure says.

No matter which tools you choose, it’s important to be aware of your role in creating a peaceful environment.

McCure recommends praying or meditating on ways you can help set up your home for peaceful living.

“You can buy the tools to cleanse your home, but you also need to take time for your personal growth and to resolve conflicts. Real peace begins within,” she adds.

HOME & LIFESTYLE JANUARY 2020

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JANUARY in the

Garden W

ho am I kidding…there is no “January in the garden”? There is January on my couch.

January in the local coffee shop talking plants.

January with all the houseplants surrounding us. But January is actually good for having a heart to heart with your garden. After this past weird growing season, it’s more obvious that I don’t have as much time as I used to in order to maintain my gardens. I have evolved towards more trees and shrubs, thinning out my perennials to only the toughest ones as I am too busy to maintain much during the growing season. Because of my time limits, I have actually fallen in love with shrubs all over again.

Shrubs are the “walls” of the garden. Often in design, we equate the outdoor spaces to similar spaces inside the house. The floor is the simple things like mulch, groundcover, lawn, etc. that set the stage for the other spaces. The ceilings are the trees – giving us scale with their canopies and texture - making yards feel cozier. The walls are all the things that are “people sized” like shrubs, grasses, and larger perennials. The small detailed plants like perennials are all the throw pillows, knick-knacks, and accents that are fun to introduce and change up. It’s important in any home – inside and out – to have these elements and have them be balanced. Shrubs help with that balance all the while providing some of the strongest characteristics of all the plants.

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HOME & LIFESTYLE JANUARY 2020

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Shrubs are great for screening views. I like the privacy and coziness of some of my largest shrubs. The Arrowwood Viburnum I have lining the edge of my back yard have created a green wall that no one can see through. Not that we are doing weird things in the backyard but it’s important to feel like you are not on display when you sit outside. I love my Ninebark as they are tough as nails, a dark burgundy color that pairs nicely next to some huge Arborvitae, and they are resilient enough to handle my wild pruning fits. I get after them pretty hard every 3-5 years and butcher them to the point that my husband shrieks. Yet, just a few weeks later, they are back to normal and thriving. They are over 10 years old and don’t show any signs of stopping.

Think about adding some new shrubs to your garden in spring. There are many new introductions that are dwarf forms, slow growers, or just neat specimens.

I regularly design in Deutzias. These adorable little shrubs place well in the front of a border or snaked around the base of larger plants. They stay small with little care (maybe 3’ x 3’ tops), bloom early, and have great fall color. My favorites are ‘Yuki Snowflake’ and ‘Yuki Cherry Blossom’. There are some great new Chokeberries also. ‘LowScape Mound’ is a cute little shrub that stays small with white flowers in spring, dark glossy leaves, mounded habit without pruning, and awesome red fall color. What more could you want in a shrub? And don’t even get me started on all the new Hydrangea introductions (maybe that will be February’s topic….).

Let us grow them into the garden of your dreams.

I could go on and on about all the new shrubs and my old favorites but my couch is calling. Take a good look at your garden and see what holes you might need to fill. Bring a few photos into the Garden Center and be wowed at all the shrub possibilities that will work in your spots. If I had to take a guess, there are at least 300 different types of shrubs that grow around here. There is bound to be one that you fall in love with!

Meagan Provencher is the Sr. Landscape Designer at Wasco Nursery & Garden Center. She can be reached at 630-584-4424 or design@ wasconursery.com Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter!

HOME & LIFESTYLE JANUARY 2020

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EXPERIENCE FITNESS

WITH ST. CHARLES PARK DISTRICT

By Erika Young

W

hen you think about the words – fitness, wellness and exercise, what do you imagine? To many people, the vision of using cardio equipment and lifting weights comes to mind as fitness is the condition of being physically fit and healthy.

easy to find a trail in a park or natural area in St. Charles. Strap on the sneakers and head outdoors to breathe the fresh air and take in the scenic sights, such as the sculpture exhibit in Mt. St. Mary Park. In

Fitness centers, like Norris Recreation Center, provide this type of equipment (and more) as part of a membership but also offer ways to get you motivated to exercise. You can choose the one-onone coaching from a personal trainer to help keep you accountable for your routine. Or maybe you’d like to join a group fitness class led by a certified instructor who specializes in either working the total body or just focusing on strengthening your core. Seasonally, Norris offers health & wellness educational programs to inspire you to commit to be fit. Norris also specializes in teaching tennis and offering swimming lessons for all ages and abilities.

Beyond the fitness center, though, is a world of opportunities to keep you active. So where do you fitness? The St. Charles Park District encompasses a multitude of parks and facilities to meet your fitness needs.

Whenever the spirit moves you to go running or walking (with or without a furry friend), it’s pretty

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Or grab a bike and pedal along the trails such as the River Bend Bike Trail or Fox River Bike Trail that wind throughout St. Charles to see the area from a different vantage point. Did you know that you can pedal a boat in the summer at River View Miniature Golf? And, speaking of golf, the 9-hole Pottawatomie Golf Course is a great place to experience fitness and nature simultaneously. Who doesn’t want to sweat to the sound of song birds?

Whether you like to skateboard, play disc golf or climb around a playground, you’re sure to find a place for your favorite activity close by. Even splashing at Otter Cove and Swanson Pool count as exercise, just make sure you apply a good dose of sunscreen. Interested in seeing our great city from a completely different perspective? Try kayaking down the Fox River. Boat rentals are available May-August in Pottawatomie Park.

fact, many parks feature signs that indicate walking loops so you can track your steps. For those who would rather not walk alone, Norris offers a free monthly walking club on the 2nd and 4th Thursdays of the month. For a location schedule, call 630-3771405. In the winter, these same trails are perfect for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.

How many calories do you think you can burn helping with chores at Primrose Farm? While it depends partially on your intensity level, activities such as hoeing and shoveling that work your entire body can burn up to 500 calories per hour. If you’d like a more peaceful experience at the farm, try a morning of meditation with Nigerian dwarf goats – a one-of-a-kind outdoor experience!

HEALTH & WELLNESS JANUARY 2020

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WHAT DOES FITNESS MEAN TO YOU? Lacrosse Floor Hockey Disc Golf Pedal Boats Basketball Martial Arts Cardio Lifting Weights Kickboxing Playing Tennis Soccer Zumba Golf Ice Skating Dancing Fishing Snowshoeing Personal Training Cross Country Skiing

For those who choose to play sports, there’s outdoor athletic fields and courts all throughout the town. St. Charles is definitely known for its soccer, but other popular organized sports include lacrosse, football, basketball and baseball/softball. Park District recreation programs that impact your overall fitness regime range from martial arts to ballroom dancing and floor hockey to ice skating. There’s so many choices!

If you prefer to be indoors, Pottawatomie Community Center offers open gym times for a group of friends to arrange a quick pick up game of basketball, volleyball or pickleball.

Concerned about balance and stability?

The gentle movements of Tai Chi can help improve flexibility and strength.

Want to get that heart rate operating at peak efficiency? Cardio Kickboxing is a great way to build stamina and endurance. With wellness programs that run the gamut from ‘A’ (aerobics) to ‘Z’ (zumba), park district programs provide a dazzling array of fun fitness choices for any age and skill level. Best of all, these programs are so reasonably

Swimming Biking Group Fitness Football Pickleball Kayaking Fencing Goat Yoga Track & Field Circuit Workout Farm Chores Skateboarding Walking Running Seed Harvesting Volunteering Running Baseball Softball Hiking

priced – most run between $5 and $10 per session – that it’s easy to maintain an exercise program to meet your fitness goals.

Lifestyle experts and medical professionals all agree that one of the best ways to achieve a long and healthy life is through physical activity. The act of doing something – anything – that gets a body up and about, out and around, is nearly as important as what that activity may be.

But fitting a fitness program into a typical workday is often the biggest challenge. Not only are trails, paths and open-play areas ready whenever you are, park district fitness programs are conveniently offered during mornings, afternoons and evenings to accommodate even the most demanding schedule.

So ditch the excuses, dig out the workout clothes and head to the St. Charles Park District for a fun, flexible and affordable fitness program. To discover what opportunities await you: visit stcparks.org.

Experience has a local address.

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Managed by the St. Charles Park District in cooperation with Community Unit School District 303 HEALTH & WELLNESS JANUARY 2020

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STAY BRIGHT-EYED With tips for healthy long-term vision

By Jon Bilyk

As an “eye M.D.,” Anjali Hawkins hears much the same story from many people.

Patients visiting her and her ophthalmologist colleagues at Geneva Eye Clinic, and elsewhere, will report they “suddenly” noticed they could no longer read the fine print.

“It’s almost never an ‘all of the sudden’ kind of change,” Hawkins says. “It’s almost always something that happens progressively, and people just try to adapt, and may not even notice, at first.”

Regardless, Hawkins says, patients often leave, realizing their need for reading glasses or bifocals.

“But for many of us, it’s just a normal part of aging,” she says.

However, when it comes to their eyesight, Hawkins says the region’s aging population should be aware of more serious issues that could arise, which are no laughing matter.

According to the American Optometric Association, these conditions could include macular degeneration, which can cause vision loss; cataracts, which blur or cloud the vision, making people less able to see in low light and more sensitive to glare; diabetic retinopathy, which damages the blood vessels in the eyes and can cause blindness; and glaucoma, which damages the optic nerve and can lead to blindness.

Hawkins says there are proactive practices anyone can institute at any age to give their eyes the best chance to remain strong well into the golden years.

She said it begins – as it often does, when discussing health – with diet and exercise. Basic

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overall healthy habits can substantially decrease the risk of developing severe eye problems later.

“Just like with the rest of your general health, it’s important to exercise, and eat a good diet, rich in leafy, green vegetables,” Hawkins says. “Maintain a proper weight. Don’t smoke. Don’t drink to excess.

Keep your blood sugar under control.

“Anything you can do to control your systemic conditions, the better off your eyes will be for it.”

Just as doctors recommend wearing sunscreen, Hawkins says ophthalmologists recommend wearing sunglasses, to reduce the eyes’ exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet radiation.

She noted sun exposure over time causes cataracts to develop, and “excessive sun exposure” will accelerate that development, particularly among people who may work outside or otherwise spend long hours in the sun daily.

“If you’re going to be out a lot, it’s a good idea to wear a good pair of sunglasses,” Hawkins says.

That doesn’t necessarily mean an expensive name brand pair, either. So long as it shields the eyes from UVA and UVB rays, it will suffice, she says.

For those working indoors, or who otherwise spend a lot of time staring at computer screens or mobile

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devices, Hawkins recommended a different kind of protection: artificial tears.

She noted most people blink every four seconds.

However, those who are focused on reading or watching something on a screen, will blink far less frequently.

This, she says, leads to dry, irritated eyes, and can increase the risk of developing other eye problems.

Hawkins suggested all people whose work or recreation requires much screen time should get in the habit of regularly lubricating their eyes with eyedrops.

“This can be done with over-the-counter drops, 2-4 times a day,” she says.

But she cautioned to avoid products that declare they will “get the red out,” as those contain ingredients which constrict blood vessels in the eye, and so should not be used as part of a regular “eye lubricating” habit.

“Also, try to look away every 20 minutes or so, take a nice, hard blink, and give your eyes a rest,” Hawkins says.

For those suffering dry eyes, Hawkins says fish oil has been shown to reduce symptoms.

Most importantly, Hawkins says people of any age should not neglect regular eye exams. Otherwise

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But these eye exams need to be more than just “glasses checks,” she says, noting “eye M.D.s” can use these otherwise routine exams to look for more severe vision problems, or even larger overall health problems, and help patients get the care they need earlier.

“Sometimes, ophthalmologists are the first to diagnose a serious health condition, such as diabetes, hypertension, thyroid problems, stroke, multiple sclerosis and brain tumors,” Hawkins says.

She said patients should see an ophthalmologist immediately if they have sudden changes in vision, blurred vision, significant redness or pain, or begin seeing flashing lights or “floaters.” These, she adds, can all be signs of those other serious health conditions.

She also noted patients shouldn’t forestall eye exams over cost concerns, as health insurance will cover the cost of many visits to ophthalmologists, outside of routine “glasses checks.”

“It’s important to remember eye doctors are also M.D.’s,” Hawkins says. “So, don’t neglect your eyes.

See your doctor.”

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healthy adults with no vision problems, should have their eyes checked every 5-10 years up to age 40; then every 2-4 years, until they reach 65 years old, when they should have comprehensive eye exams every 1-2 years, she says.

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WHAT IS

CBD?

Understanding the possible benefits of this popular oil for wellness

By Diane Krieger Spivak

You’ll see see the You’ll the signs nearly nearly signs everywhere everywhere youturn turn these you these days — — CBD. days CBD. It’s at at the It’s the corner mini corner mini mart, the the gas mart, gas station, the station, the farmers market. market. farmers It’s in in soaps It’s soaps and lotions, lotions, and drops and and dog drops dog treats, tinctures tinctures treats, and teas. and teas.

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But what is CBD, and why is it taking over seemingly every street corner in America?

CBD stands for cannabidiol, a chemical compound from the cannabis plant, also known as hemp. But don’t confuse CBD with the related THC, the psychoactive substance in marijuana that produces a “high.” Even though both are varieties of the cannabis plant, CBD has no psychoactive properties, and CBD is legal in all 50 states.

“You cannot overdose on it,” says Greg Wlezien, owner of About Face + Body, The Natural Body Store, in Geneva, who introduced CBD in his shop about four years ago when customers started asking for it. “It does nothing but help your body. Even three year olds can take it.

“Hemp is a natural medicine that realigns your body’s [endocannabinoid] signaling system, which tells your body everything to do. It tunes up the body. In three to six weeks your body is signaling like when you were a teenager. It does zero harm. This plant is brilliant, natural and safe.”

One prescription drug product based in CBD already has been approved by the FDA to treat rare, severe forms of epilepsy. And while the FDA has not yet officially approved any other CBD products and uses, the folks there are working to learn more about the benefits of CBD and CBD products.

When Wlezien asks his customers how they’re doing, “I hear all these great responses,’ he says. “People get very emotional in here.”

But as the research continues, users are touting a litany of benefits from CBD – relief from pain, anxiety, depression, seizures, parkinson’s, diabetes, autism, adhd, arthritis, crohn’s disease – the list goes on and on.

Cheryl Cryer, who owns CryBaby CBD, in St. Charles, left corporate America after her high-pressure job made her physically ill. Soon after, the medications she was taking began affecting her heart, so she turned to CBD.

“Today, I don’t take any medications at all,” says Cryer, who travels extensively to talk about CBD. Ingestible CBD and topical pain relief CBD are the mainstays of her product line, and she sells them in wellness centers here and across the United States. Her customers often buy CBD to treat insomnia, anxiety, autoimmune conditions, migraines, seizures and other illness, she says.

Zoey Dalton, CEO of Nature’s Rooted Wisdom, in Batavia, has nursing experience from the late 1970s and early’80s, when she worked with cancer patients on cancer therapies. She holds a position in the cannabis industry as a professional coaching mentor for CBD and lifestyle choices.

Dalton turned to CBD when her daughter Zailani was born with her umbilical cord wrapped around her neck, resulting in cerebral palsy, epilepsy and Parkinson’s disease. Zai was on 45 medications, which caused her to fall behind in development.

“Being a nurse, I was skeptical,” says

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“It tunes up the body…It does zero harm. This plant is brilliant, natural and safe.”

Greg Wlezien, About Face + Body in Geneva

Dalton. “You’re brought up thinking pharmaceuticals are ‘it.’ But we lost Zai’s personality in all her medications. We took her off of those, and there she was [again].” Zai is now taking only CBD and allergy medication. While wheelchair bound and nonverbal, her mother reports she is thriving, happy and intelligent.

“CBD is not a cure-all,” notes Dalton. “It’s a nutrient that helps assist the body to tune up.”

While CBD may be available almost anywhere, its purity often is in question.

Wlezien, Dalton and Cryer all caution to make sure you read the label, and buy CBD from a reputable distributor.

“Look for a clear listing of the main ingredients, and how much CBD you are getting per dose. Look for ingredients you can understand,” says Cryer, who formulates her own with no artificial colors, flavors, and with a pure and natural or organic base.

Dalton recommends looking for the U.S. Hemp Authority seal when shopping for

CBD. “They have standards not only on labels and third party testing but also plain speak in advertising, along with rigorous certification of the plant itself.

Only 20 companies have this seal,” Dalton says.

Soaps with CBD boast anti-inflammatory properties for conditions such as skin rashes. Cryer’s CBD balm works like arthritis creams. They’ve been used to relax sore CBD also can be ingested in capsules and chewable gummies.

The most effective way to take CBD, however, is orally, in tincture form. (Or, as in Zai’s case, through a feeding tube.)

Wlezien recommends swishing it in the mouth, then swallowing, taking it before breakfast and dinner.

Cryer recommends taking it sublingually, so it absorbs through the mucous membranes. While she stays clear of specific dosing, she often recommends starting with a1000 mg tincture, taking a half dropper full.

“See how it goes for you,” she says. “You

can double dose up or half dose it down.

Within a couple of weeks you should feel a difference.”

Pets may benefit from CBD, too CBD work wonders for humans, but pet owners are noticing the benefits for their furry family memebers as well.

“Pets have the same issues as humans — aging, pain, anxiety,” says Cryer. She says she sees pet owners giving cats CBD to treat anxiety and pain. For dogs, it’s often used for anxiety from fireworks, thunderstorms and separation as well as pain. Cryer’s pet line was created after her dog developed hip dysplasia pain and seizures.

CBD oil can be administered directly into the pet’s mouth or put in food. Heating, however, destroys its properties, she says.

Many of Wlezien’s customers report successes, and even take before-andafter photos. “Their dogs want to go for walks. They’re chilled and relaxed. Some just use CBD when needed, such as if a

storm is approaching.”

Other claims by pet owners are more enticing. One of Wlezien’s customers, for example has a dog who was diagnosed with cancer, and it was given a month to live. The man bought two big bottles of the CBD oil, and later came in for a third and fourth, he said. “Seven months later the dog is cancer-free and the doctor is flipping out and can’t believe it,” says Wlezien. “Another customer’s dog had an eye that shot off to one side. Halfway through a bottle of CBD he realized the dog’s face had been swollen. [When the inflammation subsided] the eye swung back where it should be.”

At age 10, Dalton’s working pet for her daughter Zai, was gravely ill. “The vet was ready to give him the shot to put him down and my other daughter said we should try the CBD like we were for Zai,” Dalton says.

“We had him another four years. He had more energy, was very happy and his skin condition tampered down. We got extra years with him. That was amazing to me.”

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I had a little issue with my car and had to venture to Schaumburg to take it in for a quote. While I was there, I decided to try out Blackwood BBQ right by Woodfield Mall.

This restaurant is like a tune from the south, with their own smokers and ovens that slow cook all their meats – even vegetarian substitutes – over hours to create a lovely taste and texture to the barbeque. I decided to sample the smoked turkey and the lean brisket. Did you catch that? Lean brisket! Yes, they offer you three choices of brisket, lean, fatty and a blend. You can choose what you like.

Given fat is something you want to balance, it’s up to you to choose how much. I took the lean brisket, which was moist and full of a smoked flavor that just gave that bite and the texture of brisket that barbeque lovers long for. The bark on the meat was exquisite, coupled with the tang of one of their six barbeque sauces.

Now, the smoked turkey was over the top with moist texture and a wonderful flavor that just makes you want to skip Thanksgiving. And I had to go with their side of the Texas beans that have some

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brisket and onions in them. Wow, the spices within just bring you back to Houston.

The accompaniments that garnish the side are wonderful. They include some housemade pickles and some pickled red onions.

All in all this is quite a punch of flavor in the nutrition town of balance between the protein, carbohydrates, and fats that keep your waistline stable and in do deliver in every bite something special.  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 630232-2025.

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

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.

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:

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

Q: Colon cancer screening age just changed. Is that

something I should wait on as breast cancer is more important?

A: 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. Breast and prostate cancer screening are important too and those should be done as well.

Q: Food allergies seem to be more of an issue nowadays.

How do you diagnose them?

A: Food allergies have become more commonly diagnosed as

there is more awareness. However, they have always been there. There are skin based tests and blood based tests. At times, people think that gas or bloating or even heartburn is not from anything. But, it can be from food allergies.

Q: I have constipation and cannot evacuate easily. I have heard there are new medications for this. What do I need to know about them?

A: There are new medications that increase selective secretion

in the bowels to make the stool able to move forward more easily. Linzess has three doses as an example and works quite well. Miralax is fine also, but requires you to mix up a powder and a drink. Often it bloats too.

Q: Heartburn is happening with reflux sometimes. I take

Tums to alleviate the symptoms. Do I need more tests or is the over-the-counter treatment okay?

A: Reflux can cause esophagitis, which is inflammation of the

esophagus. You should get checked and evaluated for Barrett’s esophagus, which is a precancerous lesion that can only be seen at an endoscopy test. The earlier detection of altered profile allows you to adjust diet and take some medicines if needed. It also permits surveillance. If you are in a surveillance program, then chances to get a cancer and die from it are less than 10 percent. Without the surveillance, then the death outcomes from esophageal cancer are near 90% percent.

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.

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TOM’S COOKBOOK LIBRARY:

‘Fussy dishes often overrated’

I

n her recently published cookbook, “Nothing Fancy: The Art of Having People Over” (Clarkson Potter), Alison Roman focuses attention on meals that emphasize the bond that’s created between home cooks and their guests in serving simple, well thought out fare.

Roman says she is not the one to turn to for tips on folding linen napkins, floral arrangements or mood lighting.

Rather, her readers will find lowstress and high-impact recipes geared to make life easier when cooking for others. She’s all about “unfussy food, unfussy vibes and the permission to be imperfect.”

“Nothing Fancy” devotes space to snacks, salads, vegetable side dishes and desserts. Among main-course dishes are steak, chicken and leg of lamb. Others feature grilled shrimp, scallops, salmon and trout.

Worth considering is “Ricotta-Stuffed Shells with Burrata, Mushrooms and Herbs” (recipe follows).

Roman, who lives in Brooklyn, is a food columnist for the New York Times and Bon Appetit. She is author of the best selling book Dining In.  Journalist Tom Witom, who lives in

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

320 N 2nd St. St. Charles, IL 60174 630.584.7900 Make a reservation today!

OPEN FOR LUNCH Tuesday-Friday 11:30 - Saturday & Sunday noon salernosonthefox.com 24

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RICOTTA-STUFFED SHELLS with Burrata, Mushrooms and Herbs (Serves 6 to 10) • 2 pounds mixed fresh mushrooms, such as maitake, oyster, chanterelle, trumpet or shiitake, torn or cut into bite-sized pieces • 4 garlic cloves, well smashed • 3 tablespoons olive oil, plus more as needed for the baking sheet and baking dish • Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper • 2 cups (16 ounce) full-fat ricotta • ½ cup grated pecorino or Parmesan, plus more as desired • 1 1/4 cups heavy cream, divided • 1 (12-ounce) box large dried shells • 8 ounces burrata or mozzarella, torn into bite-sized pieces • 1 cup fresh parsley, tender leaves and stems, coarsely chopped • ½ finely chopped fresh chives • 1/4 cup fresh tarragon leaves • 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest

 Preheat the oven to 425 degree F.  Toss the mushrooms and garlic on a rimmed baking sheet with the olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Roast, tossing occasionally, until they’re starting to brown and crisp, 15 to 20 minutes.  Meanwhile, combine the ricotta, pecorino and 3/4 cup cream in a medium bowl. Season with salt and pepper.  Cook the shells in a large pot of boiling water until just al dente. Drain and transfer to an oiled rimmed baking sheet. Toss the shells in a bit more oil, just to make sure they don’t stick to one another as you’re filling them.  Using a spoon, fill each shell with the ricotta mixture – they should look pretty full, but don’t be crazy, okay? You have a lot of shells to fill!  Drizzle a bit of olive oil in the bottom of a 2-quart baking dish or large cast-iron skillet (a 9- by-13-inch baking dish will work in a pinch, although it won’t be as dramatic as a presentation). Place the shells in the baking

dish, letting them overlap slightly, so each is snug. Scatter the burrata into the little inbetween spots and top with the mushrooms.

Pour the remaining ½ cup cream over everything.  Cover with foil and bake until the cheese is melted and everything is warmed through, 8 to 10 minutes. Remove the foil and continue to bake until the shells are sizzling around the edges and the mushrooms have miraculously gotten even darker and more caramelized looking. 15 to 20 minutes.  Meanwhile, combine the parsley, chives, tarragon and lemon zest in a small bowl.

Season with salt and pepper and drizzle with a little olive oil.  Top the pasta with the herb mixture, grating or shaving more pecorino over, and serve.

DO AHEAD: The cheese mixture can be made a day ahead. The dish can be assembled a day, wrapped tightly and refrigerated. But baking too far in advance and reheating is not recommended as the cheese has a tendency to dry out.

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Dine-in ONLY. Not valid with any other offer. Beverage purchase required.

ROOKIES 1 ST. CHARLES 1545 W. Main St. St. Charles P: 630.513.0681 SM-CL1731522

ROOKIES 2 THE GROVE, ELGIN 2486 Bushwood Drive Elgin P: 847.551.9006

ROOKIES 3 ROOKIES 4 HUNTLEY POPLAR CREEK PLAZA 12220 Princeton Dr. (Rt. 47) 4607 West Higgins Rd. Huntley Hoffman Estates P: 847-669-8600 P: 847-645-0005

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ROOKIES 5 ROSELLE LOCNEW 1360 Lake St. ATION Roselle P: 847-278-1666

“Rookies All American Pub & Grill” DINING & ENTERTAINING JANUARY 2020

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FUN Facts 2020 for

 JAN. 2ND: NATIONAL PERSONAL TRAINING DAY • Delnor Health & Fitness Center trainers are certified and degreed • Personal training is available to members and non-members.

• All personal training is conducted conveniently through appointments that you arrange with your trainer • Trainer will provide the motivation, encouragement and accountability needed to reach your individualized goal.

• Mention this ad and receive a 1-30 minute personal training session • Turn your goals into accomplishments. Sign up for personal training today!

• Contact us to schedule an appointment: 630.938.9000

296 RANDALL ROAD, GENEVA | 630.938.9000 | TTY 630.933.4833

FEBRUARY 17TH: NATIONAL ACTS OF KINDNESS  Founded in 2017 by Jim Di Ciaula, Random Acts Matter gives back in small ways that matter significantly when people are facing hard times. The non-profit was created to support any type of hardship by providing care through small acts of kindness for people residing in 60174, 60175, or who live in school district 303. The organization has provided 130 random acts that have helped more than 500 people since it's conception. Some of the random acts include: funds for medical bills, donating a bike to a student in need, providing housecleaning, date nights, and meals for parents of a seriously ill child.

RANDOM ACTS MATTER 7 E. MAIN ST. SUITE 101 ST. CHARLES IL 60174 | (630) 447-8083 | WWW.RANDOMACTSMATTER.COM

 MARCH 19TH: NATIONAL CHOCOLATE CARAMEL DAY Locally owned and conveniently located in the Geneva Commons Satisfy your sweet tooth with our variety of chocolate caramel options: • Milk or dark chocolate covered, sea salt, plain, or raspberry caramels!

• Nuts and caramel covered in chocolate, available with; almonds, cashews pecans, macadamia or peanuts • Caramel covered pretzels with milk or dark chocolate and available with pecans or peanuts for the nut lover • Over 20 varieties of caramel apples with fresh caramel made in the store in a copper kettle • Sugar free caramels covered with milk or dark chocolate

ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE 1308 COMMONS DR., GENEVA | 630-208-1484

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APRIL 4TH: NATIONAL BURRITO DAY 

• Authentic Burrtios, Fajitas, Tacos, Enchiladas, Quesadillas & House Specialties

• Over 10 Varieties of handcrafted margaritas made with fresh fruit, fresh lime juice and organic agave nectar • All menu margaritas $5.50 every Thursday and All Mexican Beers $2.99 every Wednesday open - close • Relaxing Patio with a view • Catering Available See our website & facebook page for monthly specials and Guacamole of the Day!

EL MOLCAJETE ON 3RD 227 S. THIRD ST., 2ND FLOOR OF THE BERRY HOUSE, GENEVA 630-457-5348 | WWW.ELMOLCAJETEGENEVA.COM

 MAY 4TH: NATIONAL BIRD DAY Complete line of bird cages, food, toys & accessories • Boarding Services by Appointment • Wing & Nail Trims on Saturdays and Sundays • Hand Fed Baby Birds • Open 7 Days a Week

BIRD IS THE WORD

30 S. SHUMWAY, BATAVIA | 630-406-7610 | WWW.BIRDISTHEWORD.COM

JUNE 21ST: NATIONAL YOGA DAY  Delnor Health & Fitness offers 18 yoga inspired classes per week.

Yoga derives from Hindu and Eastern religious practices as a form of meditation and exercise meant to unite mind and body. However, it has spread all over the world even among those not following Eastern religions. Yoga has become very popular, and it was made a day observance to promote “health, harmony, and peace” Please mention this ad and stop in for a complimentary yoga class Visit delnor.com to see the class schedule. Or call 630-938-9000

296 RANDALL ROAD, GENEVA | 630.938.9000 | TTY 630.933.4833 FUN FACTS JANUARY 2020

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 JULY 29TH: NATIONAL LIPSTICK DAY DISCOVER MERLE NORMAN PLUSH LIPSTICK

One swipe wraps lips in sensational color, plush texture, & a comfy satin-matte finish • Full service skincare and cosmetics store • Ear piercing, manicures, pedicures, waxing and full service hair salon for men and women • All products made in the USA since 1931

MERLE NORMAN COSMETICS 518 W. STATE ST., GENEVA 630-232-0098 WWW.MERLENORMAN.COM

AUGUST 1ST: NATIONAL GIRLFRIENDS DAY  A day that encourages women to spend time with their female friends. Grab your BFFs or go alone to meet new friends at Pinot’s Palette in St. Charles. At the end of the night, friendships are forged, and everyone gets to take home a masterpiece as a memory. Pinot’s Palette will be celebrating National Girlfriends Day all month long in August. Check out their events calendar at www.pinotspalette.com/stcharles to find your favorite event.

PINOT’S PALETTE 3823 E. MAIN STREET, ST. CHARLES | 630.338.0278 | WWW.PINOTSPALETTE.COM/STCHARLES

 SEPTEMBER 26: NATIONAL PANCAKE DAY 16 Types of Pancakes, 2 locations, 26 Burgers, Sandwiches and Wraps What makes us the Best in Kane County!

• Phil's "cage free" farm fresh eggs, vegetarian fed "all natural" chickens and turkey meats, gourmet organic coffee, hand squeezed orange and grapefruit juice, made from scratch corned beef hash and chorizo......Hungry yet?

Take home one or all of our easy bake pancakes. In three different flavors: Apple, Pecan or Cranapple Pancakes

APPLE VILLA FAMOUS PANCAKES 1961 W. WILSON ST., BATAVIA | 630-406-8022 | WWW.APPLEVILLAPANCAKES.COM APPLE VILLA - HOFFMAN ESTATES

3101 NORTH BARRINGTON RD., HOFFMAN ESTATES | (847) 765-2000

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OCT. 25TH - NATIONAL MASSAGE THERAPY WEEK  Delnor Health & Fitness therapists are certified NCTMB, are licensed by the State of Illinois, and have comprehensive training and experience. Mention this ad and receive $10 off a 1-hour massage.

Each massage is individually designed to meet the needs of the client. The following treatments are available:' • • • •

Swedish, Deep Tissue, Trigger Point Myofascial

• • • •

• Hot Stone • Himalayan Stone • Seated Massage

Sports Reflexology Prenatal Postnatal

Contact us to schedule an appointment: 630.938.9000

296 RANDALL ROAD, GENEVA | 630.938.9000 | TTY 630.933.4833

 NOVEMBER: RECYCLING MONTH Do you have electronics to recycle?

Kane County has two year-round drop-offs for recycling electronics - TVs, computers, laptops, printers, phones, and more. And now we also take clothing and shoes for donation at these locations as well! Our sites are in Batavia and West Dundee and are open Monday through Friday and we unload for you.

Most items are free to drop off, but TVs and monitors have a fee based on size, which is paid directly to the County's contracted electronics recycler - eWorks, a non-profit that employs people with developmental disabilities.

Kane County also has a series of Saturday recycling events, scheduled on the second Saturday of each month from April through November.

To find out more go to www.countyofkane.org/recycling and click on Electronics.

Contact: Kane County Recycling Coordinator, recycle@countyofkane.org or 630-208-3841

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FUN FACTS JANUARY 2020

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AS THE SEASONS CHANGE

DON'T WASTE A MOMENT WITH JONATHAN BILYK

I

n the Midwest, it’s hard to find a family that doesn’t have some kind of fall tradition related in some way to leaves.

Typically, in my experience, that involves some kind of trip away from home to "see the colors". Some families in my social circle will return to the same spots, year after year.

Our tradition for the past few years has been a bit more simple.

It’s called the “Sliding Leaf Pile.”

Since my first little one was born, we’ve been fortunate to live in a neighborhood blessed (if that’s what you wish to call it), with an abundance of the kinds of foliage some people will drive long distances to see.

No, we’ve never lived in a forest. And it’s Illinois, so there’s not a mountain in sight.

But every spring, the yard and driveway (and gutters and roof and cars parked outside) were covered with seeds and other assorted arboreal droppings from above.

And every October, the deep green would ignite into the reds, yellows and oranges craved by those who, at the first whiff of pumpkin spice, don their boots, scarves, sweaters and hats, 80-degree temperatures or no.

Of course, a couple weeks later, the wind and rain storms that also characterize fall in northern Illinois also would set in. And as the rain fell, so did the leaves, eventually leaving a fairly thick blanket of

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more yard work covering the grass.

Watching the forecast carefully for a few days of good weather to arrive, we would quickly set about raking and bagging and mulching and raking some more (just like you.)

Eventually, we would be left with one or two humongous piles of mostly dry, crunchy leaves. And those piles would be directed to the foot of the slide coming off the jungle gym in the back yard.

Every year, at the first sight of leaves on the ground, our young ones will ask: “When can we do the sliding leaf pile?” The answer is always some variation of a chuckle, followed by: “We’ll see.”

And every year, the anticipation builds, until the moment they see me lean my rake against the garage, turn and smile, and head inside for a drink.

This past fall, however, amid the alternating pattern of dreary gloom and historic early season cold and snow, the anticipation didn’t so much explode, as it slowly ebbed, like a balloon slowly losing helium, and sinking ever so slowly, day by day, to the floor, as the littles slowly realized the sliding leaf pile wasn’t happening this year.

The resignation in their eyes as that reality finally dawned on them was a gut punch for me. Yes, I realized there was nothing I could do about the weather. And there’s no point in shaking your fist at the sky.

But there was still a hint of grief, standing outside in the December cold, raking leaves that should have been such a source of delight, 30, 40, 60 days

earlier, and now just were a lingering item on the household to-do list.

The grief was fueled by the realization, as I raked, that soon my oldest may no longer wish to partake in this rite of fall. Soon, she may even be too big to slide down that slide, except on occasion with the littler one.

It was a memory robbed from me by the vagaries of nature, the whims of fate.

While it gave me fuel to complete the task that much faster, it also helped to set my mind on making every effort in the New Year to ensure we would not trust our lives and our memories to fate.

Just as winter can crash a glorious fall unexpectedly soon, too, can our children’s childhood slip into young adulthood before we know it.

While there’s nothing we can do about it, there is much that can be done to live intentionally, in the present, and try to find – or better, create - as many giant sliding leaf piles as possible, amid the waning moments.  Jonathan Bilyk writes about the triumphs and travails of being a modern-day dad who legitimately enjoys time with his family, while tolerating a dog that seems to adore him. He also doesn’t really like the moniker “Superdad” because it makes it sound like he wants to wear his undergarments on the outside of his pants. (Also, the cape remains on back order.)

FAMILY IN FOCUS JANUARY 2020

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It's the simple things.

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www.alltopcrittersitters.com FAMILY IN FOCUS JANUARY 2020

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Cheers to self-health!

Ch

With Chrissy Somers, www.FamiliesOnTheFox.com

The New Year represents new opportunities for us all.

A fresh start on a road that may have been littered with failed attempts from months gone by.

Often times, this ‘fresh start’ revolves around meeting fitness or financial goals, but more often than not, we usually don’t make goals about our mental health.

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Think about it.

Our daily lives are filled with stressors, or triggers – bills, housework, children, busy schedules, work, relationships – when we become stressed about the inevitable in our daily lives, it impacts everyone and everything around us.

When I was a teacher, my principal used to encourage his staff to take mental health days. He knew when you combine a busy personal life with a heavily-involved workload, it would deteriorate our physical and mental health.

He asked that we take a day to ourselves to do whatever we needed to do to get that weight off our shoulders. Whether it was taking the day off to get caught up on grading, go to the spa, or sleep all day, we could use the day however we’d like as long as we returned with a clearer mind.

Because taking a mental health day is a preventative measure, try to schedule time each week for yourself. I’m not saying to take a day off of work every week (I mean, if you have that many sick days, more power to yo!), but find time in the evenings, early mornings, or weekends to clear your mind.

HERE ARE SOME IDEAS TO HELP YOU FOCUS ON YOUR MENTAL HEALTH:

YOGA and MEDITATION

Some people clear their mind best when they are finding their Zen and inner peace. Try yoga at a studio like Prana Yoga in Geneva, Soma Studio in Batavia, or Bent Dog Yoga in St. Charles. Give meditation a try for free on Wednesday nights at Salternative Spa in Geneva.

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Save your pavers!

Snow blow with

FITNESS

Physical activity brings about clarity for some. Try joining an area running group like Fox River Trail Runners and run with a group on Wednesday nights all year long. Join a gym like ProForce Training in Batavia, Geneva Fit, or Peak Fitness Studio in Geneva.

Or get creative at adult dance classes through Dreams Dance Academy in St. Charles, Vargos Dance in Geneva, or Dance Dynamics in Batavia.

PERSONAL ENRICHMENT

We are lucky enough to have Waubonsee Community College in our backyard, with campuses in Sugar Grove, Aurora, and Plano, and they have so many programs and courses to take advantage of! If you ever wanted to hone in on a craft or hobby, they have a program for that. If you have goals of being a small business owner, they have programs for that. Take a course or program and focus on your passions, new or old.

DATE YOURSELF

Hey there, you pretty little thing. Take your fine self out on a date once a week. Get a coffee and read a book on the blue, cozy couch at Cafe & Barr in Geneva or grab a table tucked away in a far corner at Kava Diem.

Limestone Coffee in Batavia underwent some renovations recently as well.

If it’s late in the evening, don’t think twice about taking yourself to a fine establishment and belly-up to the bar for a night cap. Noble House in Geneva, Rox City Grill in St. Charles, or Riverside Pizza in Batavia all are great options!

I know it’s hard to dedicate time to you and only you. You may have even have feelings of guilt. But that guilty feeling should show you that you don’t take enough time to yourself. You feel guilty because you are mentally used to taking care of everyone else in your life and not yourself. If you regularly took time for yourself every week, I promise that guilt would subside rather quickly.

In the end, consider making uninterrupted, non-negotiable time for you – time that you will not sacrifice – because you are just as important as everyone else in your household.

You can’t give all of yourself to those around you if you don’t put yourself first.

I’m practicing this myself and am learning how invaluable my “me time” truly is.

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Cheers to YOU focusing on YOU!

Chrissy Somers is the owner of Families on the Fox, a website that serves as a free resource to the Tri-City community. A daily events calendar, indoor fun resource guide, seasonal events, pre-planned date nights, adult fun outings, and more can be found when you visit www.

FamiliesOnTheFox.com Photo by Katie Kaltz Photography

Celebrating Over 30 Years

Harry Stout Y 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!

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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.

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Protecting Your

#1 ASSET

Y

our most valuable asset is your ability to earn an income yet we often see clients overlooking this

when we first meet with them. When stresstesting your own financial plan, how does it hold up if you have a hiccup in your income or in your partner’s? Should you or your partner experience a serious illness or injury, how would the loss of income affect you?

Combine the loss of income with increased expenses due to necessary medical care, and the financial stress of a disability can become just as taxing as the disability itself.

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While your employer may cover you with some form of company-paid disability insurance, often coverage is only partial and/or short term.

Purchasing a Personal Disability Income Insurance policy can help you cover any financial gaps that you may have—with the added bonus that these benefits can be paid to you tax-free.

Because the benefit period of short-term policies lasts a maximum of two years and long-term policies have a typically extensive waiting period, it is wise to acquire both long-term and short-term disability insurance policies.

Having both policies will assure that you are covered from the unfortunate moment you fall ill or become injured through the entire period of disability, or even the rest of your life.

POLICY CONSIDERATIONS:  DEFINITION OF DISABILITY: Some policies pay benefits if you are unable to perform the duties of your regular occupation (aka your “Own Occupation”), while others pay only if you cannot engage in gainful employment at all. Some policies also pay benefits if you become ill or injured and are unable to earn a specified percentage of your income. If your occupation is highly specialized, this is a critical element of coverage for you to pay attention to.  AMOUNT OF INCOME: This amount varies by policy, but a policy that pays 50 to 60 percent of your monthly salary (not including bonuses or commission) is the most common and most affordable option. If your income is significantly composed of incentive pay, you will want to look closely at coverage language as many policies do not cover this part of your income which could leave you in a real bind.  LENGTH OF BENEFIT PERIOD: You can choose to receive benefits that are payable from one year, two years, five years or to retirement age. Opting for coverage that lasts through age 65 affords the best protection against an injury or illness that permanently removes you from the workforce.  RESIDUAL BENEFITS: Selecting this feature will give you partial payment in the event of an income reduction due to being unable to fulfill all of your job responsibilities.  COST OF LIVING INCREASES (COLA): Adding optional COLA to your disability policy means that the coverage you purchase today will keep up with the pace of inflation during the lifetime of the policy.

Short-term disability policies have a waiting period of up to 14 days with a maximum benefit period of no longer than two years.

Long-term disability policies have a waiting period of several weeks to several months with a maximum benefit period from a few years to the rest of your life.

For additional insights, reach out to your financial advisor or give my team a call. Protecting your income is one of the most important things you can do.

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# 2861506.1

 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 JANUARY 2020

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Books

TO CHANGE YOUR LIFE When you’re looking for more than mere distraction, your local book sellers offer their favorites

by Chris Walker

T

here are books that you don’t want to ever put down and there are books that you can’t wait to put down so you can go out and change your life.

Whether you’re hoping to expand your mind and see the world differently, shift something from your very core, or to strengthen that core and lose weight, eat healthier, shift careers, find better balance or self-motivate and change your life, there are books out there that can help you on a new path of discovery.

A few local bookstores shared some of their favorite such books as we head into 2020, the prime time for resolutions and attempted life change for many.

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“Women Rowing North: Navigating Life’s Currents and Flourishing as We Age”

“Roadmap: The Get-it Together Guide for Figuring Out What to Do with Your Life.”

David Hunt of Town House Books and Café, 105. N. 2ndAve., St. Charles, recommends this book by Mary Pipher, which was released in January. Hunt said the book examines how life’s challenges can be met gracefully, and even skillfully, as we age. Her expertise is on mental health and how our culture affects our well- being.

This one is another Hunt recommendation. Whether it’s regarding career changes, finding satisfaction incurrent employment, or exploring completely new ventures, the workbook-style format of “Roadmap” provides tools to delve into what works and what doesn’t. The bottom line is the idea of following one’s heart or gut.

“This was originally recommended by our manager Heidi Schmidt,” Hunt says. “It’s such a timely topic and when people age they come into a new part of their lives, and for some it’s retiring and I think rediscovering.”

“The Subtle Art of Not Giving a F*ck: A Counterintuitive Approach to Living a Good Life.”

While he acknowledges that he’s far more into reading heavy literature and

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poetry, James Stickling, owner of The Book Shop, 15 N. River St., Batavia, says he is learning some things from reading this one. Written by Mark Manson, a blogger and internet entrepreneur, Manson shared on his website that “I write about big ideas and give life advice that doesn’t suck. Some people say I’m an idiot. Other people say I saved their life.”

“I’ve been reading it myself and it’s a lighter read for me compared to what I mostly read, but I’m enjoying it,” Stickling says. “I’m usually reading 30 books at a time and this is one of them.

It’s teaching me some things for the first time in 42 years.”

“The Year of Magical Thinking” Stickling also recommends this one, Joan Didion’s account of the year following the death of her husband.

“It puts a lot of things in perspective,” Sticking says. “It’s about the year that her husband died and then her daughter passed away right around the time that the book was published (2005). You really develop empathy no matter where you are in life. We all share in the same kind of human expression of love, loss and grief.”

Chuck Osborne, owner of Harvey’s Tales, 216 James St., Geneva, said that there are so many books out there that despite who you asked for recommendations you’d get a bunch of different titles. He even acknowledged that his suggestions today might differ from next week’s.

Nonetheless, Osborne recommends the following: “Player Piano”– Kurt Vonnegut’s first novel – “Vonnegut’s first book has always had a soft spot in my Ludditeheart,” Osborne says. “An incredibly cautionary tale about our reliance on technology.”

“Brighten the Corner Where You Are” A middle school teacher for 32 years, Osborne relates well to the story in Fred Chappell’s novel – a story in the life of a North Carolina mountain schoolteacher, who is also a prankster, family man and philosopher.

“It might seem a bit esoteric,” he said.

“But it has such great houghts about why some are led to teach.”

The Dhammapada –a collection of Buddha sayings in verse form, which is one of the most widely known read Buddhist scriptures.

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Osborne admits that he’s not a religious person, but that doesn’t mean that there aren’t lot of great spiritual things that can be gained by reading The Dhammapada.

“I think it’s a great set of observations on how to be a good person without relying on all the ‘ooga booga’ stuff found in other religious texts that were probably designed to do the same thing,” he says.

To find these titles and others, be sure to visit any of your local bookstores soon and kick start what hopefully proves to be a prosperous and healthy new year.

RESTAURANT WEEK JAN. 20–26

So Many Specials!

SAMPLE GENEVA'SS AWARD-WINNING -WINNING DINING! Savor the Specials at Participating Participattingg Restaurants One week Only: January 20 – 26, 26, 2020 No tickets necessary. Just askk fo for or tthe Restaurant Week Special at participating restaurants.

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ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT JANUARY 2020

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Don’t miss these great

LOCAL EVENTS There’s so much to do around our towns!

 ALL CANADA SHOW Friday, January 10 | 3 p.m. - 9 p.m.

Saturday, January 11 | 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Sunday, January 12 | 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Pheasant Run Resort 4051 E. Main St., St. Charles Price: $0.00 to $12.00 Adults $12, kids - FREE, Vets FREE on Sunday, Parking– FREE. Love to fish? Hunt? Don’t miss the ALL-CANADA SHOW, the place to meet Canada’s BEST fishing and hunting destinations!

For more information, visit www.allcanadashow.com

skilled performers with hilarious, interactive comedy!

Our performers have decades of dueling pianos experience, both in nationally renowned dueling piano clubs as well as private parties, and they are guaranteed to entertain you! They also play off each other in the traditional “Classic” dueling pianos style that has made dueling pianos so popular – so it’s not just two inexperienced people playing keyboards!

This is truly Dueling Pianos at its best! Our performers know literally hundreds of songs from the last century to today – and we’ll put our own “Windy City” on it to amaze you!

For more information, visit evenflowmusic.com/ events

 JONNY LANG Friday, January 10 | 8 p.m. - 11 p.m.

Arcada Theatre 105 E. Main St., St. Charles Price: $49.00 to $89.00 Since the release of his debut album, Grammy Award winning Jonny Lang has built a reputation as one of the best live performers and guitarists of his generation. Fans who discovered Jonny Lang through his searing instrumental work will revel in the huge guitar tones and go for broke solos on Signs, while those who have appreciated his growth as an honest and passionate songwriter will find that honesty and passion unabated. Though he long ago left blues purism behind, Lang has never abandoned its spirit of universal catharsis through the relating of personal trials. Signs reaffirms his commitment to the blues and the guitar without sacrificing the modern approach that has made him such a singular artist.

For more information, visit www.arcadalive.com  WINDY CITY DUELING PIANOS Friday, January 10 | 9 p.m.

EvenFlow Music & Spirits 302 W. State St., Geneva Experience for yourself the show that’s getting rave reviews! Windy City Dueling Pianos combines highenergy music played on two pianos by two highly

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 MAGNIFICENT MOZART Saturday, January 11 | 7:30 p.m.

Sunday, January 12 | 2:30 p.m.

The Hemmens Cultural Center 45 Symphony Way, Elgin Price: $35.00 to $85.00 - Save 10% or 20% when you purchase tickets from 3+ concerts The ESO’s Magnificent Mozart gives the audience a glimpse into the brilliance that was Johannes Chrysostomus Wolfgangus Theophilus Mozart. From an intimate piece that Mozart saved for himself and a small circle of music enthusiasts to his Symphony No. 40 with one of the most recognizable opening melodies, this performance will demonstrate true genius. In fact, we have a bit of genius of our own - Andrew Grams will lead the orchestra from the concertmaster chair and pianist William Wolfram will join the ESO for this celebration of Mozart.

For more information, visit www.elginsymphony.org

 DOWNTOWN BATAVIA INDOOR FARMERS’ MARKET Saturday, January 11 and Saturday, January 18 Batavia Farmers’ Market 1 North River Street | Batavia The Batavia Indoor Market is now located at Bar Evolution – 27 N. River Street.

The market features 8 to 15 unique vendors selling produce, baked goods, artisan products, plants, honey, meats, and related farm products. This Market is made possible with the help of our Sponsor: K.Hollis Jewelers.

Location: 27 N River Street Hours: 9a to Noon Saturdays Winter Market is open: October through May New this year- Bar Evolution will host a Bloody Mary & Mimosa Bar as well as Farm Fresh Egg Omelet Station courtesy of Ferndell Farm’s eggs!

For more information, visit www.dowtownbatavia.com  PRIMROSE KOHLFARHT Saturday, January 18 | 2 p.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Primrose Farm | 5N726 Crane Rd, St. Charles Price: $35.00 to $53.00 —Must be 21+ Kohlfarht...direct translation “cabbage walk” is an eating & Drinking tour that’s a winter tradition in northwest Germany. Take a winter hike, stopping for games, snacks and spirits along the way! End with a hearty German meal at Riverlands Brewing Company.

Transportation will be provided. At the end of the night we will crown the Cabbage King & Queen.

For more information, visit primrosefarmpark.com

ARTS AND ENTERTAINMENT JANUARY 2020

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Real Banking at

sterling bank Thomas Russe

President

Jennifer Guerri

Diane DeWitte

Assistant Vice President

Vice President

Carrie Johnson

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Jack McNally

Private Client Associate

Javier Hernandez

Assistant Vice President

Isabella Patton

Customer Service Representative

real People, real Service, real Community Bank, real Close to Home.

St. Charles 10 Illinois Street | (630) 549-7065 | www.sterbank.com

Your Future Is with Us! KCMag January 2020.indd 39

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for Lazarus House.

Social hour begins at 6 p.m. with activities, silent auction, appetizers, and cash bar. Enjoy a plated dinner, heartwarming presentation, live auction and entertainment

by In Time Out. Dancing until midnight! All proceeds benefit Lazarus House operating funds.

For more information, visit www. lazarushouse.net  GENEVA RESTAURANT WEEK January 20-26 Geneva Restaurant Week is pleased to highlight culinary excellence by offering an entire week of delicious discounted dining at some of Geneva’s finest restaurants! No coupon or ticket is necessary. Just mention to the server at one of the participating restaurants that you would like the Restaurant Week offering.

For more information and a list of participants visit www. genevachamber.com  “UNMASKING THE FACE OF HOMELESSNESS” GALA Saturday, January 25 6 p.m. - 11:30 p.m.

Q Center 1405 North Fifth Avenue, St. Charles Price: $150.00 —$150 per dinner reservation You are cordially invited to attend the 5th annual “Unmasking the Face of Homelessness” Gala and Benefit

 ABBEY ROAD: A TRIBUTE TO THE BEATLES Saturday, January 25 | 7:30 p.m.

The Hemmens Cultural Center 45 Symphony Way, Elgin Price: $65.00 Join the ESO and Jeans ‘n Classics as they perform the best-selling Beatles album - Abbey Road with a warm-up set featuring hits from the White Album. This performance faithfully interprets the music of The Beatles, with the signature flair of world-class vocalists from Jeans ‘n Classics and the award-winning ESO. For more information, visit www. elginsymphony.org

AREA FOR OVER 45 YEARS

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Libido Funk Circus has been thrilling audiences with their own unmistakable blend of signature bits and danceable hits for over 20 years…and during that time, the band has become THE experts in what it takes to make a dance floor move all night long! LFC plays hours and hours of fan-favorite dance songs, ranging from the early days of rock and roll to current dance floor hits.

This extremely wide selection of disco, rock, pop, new wave, funk, dance, country, hip hop, and Motown songs allows the band to effortlessly switch musical gears, in order to accommodate any audience… from the dance club to the country club. And while LFC’s extensive musical catalog is certainly their trademark, it’s only half of the story.

This tireless, 6-piece band is on a never-ending quest to truly entertain.

Costume changes, unique musical medleys, instrumental gymnastics, and boundless energy are the real highlights of each and every LFC performance!

For more information, visit evenflowmusic.com  SUPER SHUFFLE 5K Sunday, February 2 | 10 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Geneva Middle School South 1415 Viking Drive, Geneva Price: $20 to $40 —Before Jan. 19 $35; Regular = $40; Race only = $20.

Run snow or shine and burn off calories before the big game! Race kicks off at 10am at Geneva Middle School South. On-site registration & check-in is from 9-9:45 a.m.

*

Randall Rd.

TRI

CITY AUTO SERVING THE FOX VALLEY

 LIBIDO FUNK CIRCUS Friday, January 31 | 9 p.m.

EvenFlow Music & Spirits 302 W State St. Geneva

Immediately following the race, stop by the Stephen D. Persinger Gym from 10 a.m. – Noon for the Game Day Party. SPRC is located at 3507 Kaneville Road in Geneva.

5K participants receive a participation medal and one free food and beverage ticket for use at the Game Day Party. Additional food and beverages will be available for

purchase. Awards will be given to the overall top female and male finishers.

Early Registration by January 19 is $35 Registration after January 19 / Day-of registration: $40 Race Only: $20 (Does not include hoodie or participant bag.)

Register early by January 19 to ensure you receive your sweatshirt at packet pick up. Sweatshirts for late and dayof registrants will be available two weeks after the race.

Register Online through RaceRoster at https://raceroster.com/ events/2020/27597/geneva-parkdistricts-super-shuffle-5k Pre-race packet pick-up will be held January 31 from 5:30 a.m. – 9:30 p.m., and February 1 from 7 a.m. – 7 p.m. at the Stephen D. Persinger Recreation Center, 3507 Kaneville Road.

Contact Info: info@genevaparks.com (630) 232-4542  GROUNDHOG DAY HIKE Sunday, February 2 | 10 a.m. - 11 a.m.

Forest Preserve District of Kane County 1996 S Kirk Rd Ste 320, Geneva Celebrate Groundhog Day — or if you prefer — Woodchuck Day! Join us on a search for the sleepy critter at LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve. Groundhogs (also known as woodchucks or even whistlepigs) are among the few native hibernators in our area. We’ll take a hike in the woods to look for their tracks, talk about hibernation, and learn about their role in ecology. We may even see a groundhog looking at his shadow! Note: Although this program is free, advance registration is required for all nature programs. To register, call 630-444-3190 or email programs@kaneforest.com. Sunday, Feb. 2; 10 – 11 a.m. Les Arends Forest Preserve 2S731 Rte. 31, Batavia Groundhog image courtesy Shutterstock/Brian E. Kushner For more information, visit the Forest Preserve District of Kane County on Facebook.

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The Glass-Half-Full Guy:

TRAIL ANGELS Wherever your journey takes you, there are folks paying it forward.

WITH PETER STADALSKY

S

ome popular films about hiking the Appalachian or Pacific Crest Trails have depicted a person coined, “trail angel.”

For those unfamiliar with the term, a trail angel is a person who helps a stranger, typically on a longdistance hike or bike, out of the kindness of their heart. By definition, trail angels never do their acts of kindness for monetary gain, but rather for brother/ sisterhood, altruism, or paying it forward.

On many unsupported journeys, trail angels make these sorts of undertakings possible, or at the very least add an element of restoration to an arduous adventure. Being helped by a trail angel is never expected or arranged. Generally a suspiciously perfect set of circumstances align that put you in the right place, at the right time, to be lucky enough to bump into one of these anonymous heroes. I’m here to share a few stories to confirm that trail angels do, indeed, exist.

On a canoe trip across the southern U.S. river system, my friend and I got caught in a wicked lightning storm and took shelter on dilapidated, abandoned dock. To shield ourselves from the sideways rain and razor chilling winds we pitched tarps from the dock rafters and set up camp for the night. On this trip, I had been blogging and keeping a GPS ping of our location for people to follow us.

The next morning, we saw a motorboat approaching, headed straight for the dock. I was certain it was the owner of the dock we were squatting on, and I would have some explaining to do. The two gentlemen on the boat disembarked from the small ship, boarding our commandeered dock, bearing two bags of freshly made breakfast sandwiches and coffee.

They told us they saw us in a news story, found my blog, and noticed we had stopped for the night 20 miles from their home. Not only was this gesture so overwhelming that tears filled my eyes, bur we had been eating soup out of cans for the past three days and this tasted like the best food we’d ever eaten in our lives.

One big logistical challenge on many long distance trips is consistent access to clean drinking water.

There comes a time for all us hikers/bikers when we find ourselves filtering brown water from a cow pond.

While riding the Great Divide through New Mexico, some stretches of trail went for days bereft of reliable water sources. At one point, watching my two-day water supply dwindle to drops, I found a church in a field with water spigots that would save my life.

Unfortunately they were all dried up, so I continued on. A few miles down the road I spotted a black cargo box at the end of a long dirt driveway. A sign leaned against it that simply read: “Great Divide Water” I opened the box and inside was dozens of filled water

bottles, Nutterbutters, Oreos, applesauce - a famished riders heaven. Inside was also a notebook filled with notes from travelers who had theirs hinds saved by this desert oasis. I never met the owner of the box, but he certainly left a mark on my heart.

Trail angels share their generosity in a myriad of ways. Many times I find that they have been helped in some way, and it inspired them to be the next link in the chain. While there are so many struggles and difficulties that surround our lives, don’t forget that we all have little trail angels helping us along, in one fashion or another.

And don’t forget that you too can be a trail angel for someone else - anonymously shovel your neighbors driveway, buy someone’s coffee behind you in line, give someone an extra moment of your time, because it only takes a single thought and a minute of your life to leave a mark on someone’s heart.  Peter Stadalsky is

an Aurora resident and adventurer. He shares his travel experiences with a “glass-half-full” view of the world.

TRAVEL JANUARY 2020

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