KC Magazine_July 2019

AMERICANA ISSUE

JULY 2019

Fin-tailed favorites and other classic cars Page 8

Folk music, stories and artisan crafts Page 12

A glimpse back at rural American life Page 38

AS AMERICAN AS

APPLE PIE P Beloved County Fair offers week of classic fun

Page 46

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SPARKLES & SPRINKLES EVENT

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Editor's

NOTE And just like that…it’s the middle of summer!

After weeks and weeks of rain and chill, kids desperately trying to finish final exams and the hectic pace of class picnics and end of year concerts and graduations, we can all sit back and bask in the warm glow of the summer season, on a porch rocker or a pool raft.

But if you’re looking to get up and go a bit, Kane County’s got you covered! From outdoor music to carnival rides, art shows to theater on the lawn, there’s so much to fill your summer days and nights, the only challenge will be deciding!

And in this month, the month we celebrate the beginnings of our great nation, we focus on those endeavors and activities that are synonymous with Americana, recognizing the traditions, passions and patriotism of our region.

We invite you to visit the Kane County Fair, one of the areas longest running events, in its 151st year, filled with everything a fair should be, from tasty treats to classic fair entertainment, farm animals and car shows.

beautiful and useful pieces they have created right here in the area. Also at the Concours d’Elegance, where car enthusiasts can peruse the aisles of automobiles, this year including a celebration of those long, fin-tailed classics, an American favorite for so many.

If all this activity is making you hungry, it might be time to refuel. Why not take in a heart bowl of chili on a warm summer day?

While the stories are mixed about its origin (one says it was a Spanish nun who would travel out-of-body to the native Americans to preach Christianity; another says it was an 1800s dish of necessity, created to stretch a small amount of meat with other ingredients) one thing seems certain – it started in the United States. We have rounded up some of the tastiest bowls of chili in the area, and even have the low-down on a great chili event right here in Batavia.

Whatever you choose to enjoy this summer – the food, the fests, the history, the arts – you’re sure to find some All-American fun, at the ready, right here in Kane County.

If you love the farm animals, take a gander at Garfield Farm, a living museum that showcases classic rural life from another era. From raising livestock to harvesting, building barns and caring for the land, the folks at Garfield Farm give you a glimpse at American rural life, right here in our community, nearly 200 years ago.

Thanks for reading.

American craftsmanship has long been a point of pride, and we have opportunities to celebrate that skill and creativity today, at the Batavia Artisan Collective, where more than 20 local artists and craftsmen bring the

Sherri Dauskurdas, Editor

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 Jonathon Bilyk, Pete Stadalsky, Melissa Riske, Chrissy Somers, Tom Witom, Chris Walker, Allison Horne, Diane Spivak and Erin Sauder.

PHOTOGRAPHERS Sandy Bressner, Mary Beth Nolan, Mark Black and Jeff Krage 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

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JULY

2019

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INSIDE

What's

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

DINING & ENTERTAINING

8 OUR LOVE AFFAIR WITH CLASSIC CARS Concours d’Elegance brings an American passion to the streets of Geneva.

32 TOM’S COOKBOOK Cookbook reviewer Tom Witom gives us ‘The scoop’ on homemade ice cream.

10 WEAVING A TALE Fox Valley Folk Music & Storytelling Festival set for 43rd year.

12 AMERICAN ORIGINALS Artisan Collective a showcase of local talent, craftsmanship.

14 THE VENUE Foundation opens performance space with Blues and Roots music fest.

16 THINK YOU KNOW SHAKESPEARE? Geneva event an edgy, fun- filled night of outdoor theater.

BUSINESS & CIVIC

on the

COVER

Kane County Fair kicks off this month. See story on page 46.

Shaw Media file photos

18 PRIDE, PRIVILEGE & PATRIOTISM America’s symbol of freedom a centuryold pastime for local business.

20 SOCIAL LIFE Locals tee up to benefit Fox Valley Food for Health.

24 CELEBRATING INDEPENDENT FINANCIAL ADVISORS What is the difference between a financial adviser and a financial advisor?

Our expert lets you know.

HEALTH & WELLNESS 26 ACTIVE WITHOUT ANKLE PAIN If chronic ankle problems are halting your new goals, you may want to see specialist to root out the cause before summer is in full swing.

28 EAT HEALTHY, EVEN WHEN YOU’RE OUT! Venture across town to Cooper’s Hawk, a winery and restaurant on the east side of St. Charles.

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34 CHILI IN THE SUMMER Grab a hearty bowl of this American meal and refuel for whatever is on your schedule.

FAMILY IN FOCUS 38 SLICE OF RURAL LIFE For a day spent in another era, visit Garfield Farm and Museum.

41 OUR GREATEST NATIONAL TREASURES Suburban Superdad Jonathan Bilyk pays tribute to the people who make life special.

42 HAVE BOAT, WILL PADDLE Fox River provides endless summer boating possibilities .

44 BACKYARDS, BOOMS, AND BARBECUES With summer upon us, columnist Chrissy Somers tells of her favorite summertime events.

47 AS AMERICAN AS APPLE PIE The Kane County Fair is family fun for everyone, for more than 150 years.

HOME & LIFESTYLE 48 POOR DRAINAGE Landscape expert Megan Provencher takes on the garden’s worst enemy and a common problem following a rainsoaked spring.

TRAVEL 50 BIKING THE CONTINENTAL DIVIDE Are you brave enough to trek one of the most challenging trips in North America? Pete Stadalsky preps for the journey of a lifetime.

JULY

2019

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JULY

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OUR LOVE AFFAIR

WITH CLASSIC CARS Geneva’s famed Concours d’Elegance brings an American passion to the streets

By Chris Walker

Photo by Jeff Krage

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Photo by Bill Ficht Photography

P

eople go to a classic car show for a variety of reasons, including that it’s usually an affordable way to see many different kinds of rare and unique cars and styles that are on display, which usually ends up being a cool, laid back experience and a lot of fun.

Classic car enthusiasts will flock to Geneva on Aug. 25 from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. for the Concours d’Elegance to see a beautiful collection of antique, classic and unique modern automobiles that will be vying for the coveted “Benz” trophies.

Concours d’Elegance takes place in downtown Geneva along Third St. and is open to the public at no cost. Where else can you view seemingly priceless vehicles without worrying about the price tag to see them?

“I think the goal always is to a have something for everyone,” says Patt Barrett, director of the Concours d’Elegance. “The venue on Third Street offers something for

everybody. If the ladies are coming along and they don’t have as much of an interest, there are plenty of stores and shops and restaurants.

We don’t have vendor tents like some of the festivals, but we’re kind of unique in that way and then we have our awards ceremony.”

This year, the event will feature American classics Stutz and the beloved fin-tailed automobiles in its lineup – which also recognizes Allard, the 100th anniversary of the Bentley Motor Car Company and celebrates the Sports Car Club of America’s Diamond Anniversary.

Stutz is about as American as hot dogs and apple pie, but don’t you dare throw any baseballs or get any sticky fingers near these expensive, antique, luxury sports cars.

Motorius currently has a 1920 Stutz Bearcat up for auction with an opening bid starting at $325,000, which is about the same as the medium home value in Geneva.

The annual Grand Stutz is being held in the

Photo by Jeff Krage

area from Aug. 23-26 to coincide with the Concours d’Elegance with a scenic driving tour in Elgin where the Stutz once dominated the Elgin road races.

“They’re coming here to celebrate their club for three to four days which should be very interesting,” Barrett says. “We’ve had a couple of their cars here in the past but we’re hoping for at least 20 of them since they’re already going to be here for the annual Grand Stutz.”

The iconic tailfin that was so widespread in the 1950s and ’60s will return to Geneva as fin-tailed automobiles are also one of this year’s features.

Making this event even more special is that it’s the 15th year of the event as well as the 75th anniversary of the Sports Car Club of America.

And it’s not simply about viewing these amazing cars from yesteryear as the beneficiary of this year’s event is the LivingWell Cancer Resource Center.

LivingWell is a gathering place where people come together through the shared experience of a cancer diagnosis. It exists to provide compassionate care that empowers, encourages, supports and provides hope to cancer patients and their families.

“It’s not just about all the cars, but also the beneficiaries,” Barrett says. “LivingWell Cancer Resource Center is a part of Northwestern Medicine and is a great place with great programs that are free of charge for cancer patients, their loved ones and families.”

Photo by Jeff Krage ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT JULY 2019

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Fox Valley Folk Music & Storytelling Festival I

se t for 43r d Year

BY ERIN SAUDER

f you haven’t made plans for Labor Day weekend yet, Fox Valley Folklore Society President Juel Ulven has an idea for you.

Also the founder of the popular Fox Valley Folk Music and Storytelling Festival, he currently is gearing up for the event’s 43rd year. And Ulven hopes to see you there.

“If you don’t already know why you should go, you should just go to find out,” he said.

Besides hours of music

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in a variety of folk styles, the two-day festival offers eight stages with more than 30 featured performances, hands-on workshops, topical song and story workshops, dance, vocal and instrument classes, children’s activities and more.

stages with performances will run from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on both days. On Sunday, from 6 to 7:30 p.m., there will also be an old-time community barn dance and from 7:30 to 10 p.m., there will be “ghost stories” in the main music stage tent.

“You’re going to have eight chances every hour to see something different,” Ulven said. “And if there isn’t anything on stage you want to watch, there will be probably 30 jam sessions going on at any given time under a tree somewhere with anywhere from two to 20 people playing music and you can listen to what’s going on there.”

Admission is $25 per day for adults and $15 for teens and elders. Those 12 and under are free.

There is a $5 discount for both days and family rate of $55 for a mother, father and their children.

Free parking is available at the Kane County Government Center, 719 S. Batavia Ave. in Geneva.

This year’s event is set for Sunday, Sept. 1 and Monday, Sept. 2, in Geneva’s Island Park. The eight

Just some of the organizations set to showcase their talents during the event include the Fox Valley Storytelling Guild, Chicago Sacred Harp

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT JULY 2019

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July 27 – 28, 2019

Geneva ArtsFair drawsa crowd The

Singers, Dulcimer Society of Northern Illinois, Academy of Irish MusicChicago and the Plank Road Folk Music Society.

Island Park, located on the Fox River and walkable from downtown, has been the backdrop for the Fox Valley Folk Music and Storytelling Festival since 1979.

Fox Valley Folklore Society members launched the inaugural event in 1977 in Aurora.

“And it went very well but we just about killed ourselves doing it,” Ulven said. “We booked two days of concerts and workshops running from 10 in the morning to about 9 at night.

It was more work than we thought it was going to be.”

The group opted to host a scaleddown version the following year in Wheaton’s Cantigny Park.

“It was pretty low-key...more like a picnic with scheduled entertainment,” Ulven said.

One of the Society members, an avid Fox Valley trail walker and cyclist, then suggested making Geneva the venue.

“He had been doing a lot of trekking on the trail and said, ‘There’s this great island right south of 38. It looks like it would be a really great place to do a festival.’ We went up and looked at the island and said, ‘Wow,’” Ulven said.

In its early years, festivities were limited to one day, with one mainstage and a

smaller stage for workshops.

“It gradually grew and we kept adding stages and then a second day and worked up to where we’re at now and where we’ve been for 20-plus years,” Ulven said.

The largest folk festival in Illinois, the weekend event brings thousands of people to Geneva each year. Ulven enjoys the annual gathering.

Geneva is the perfect backdrop for some of the nation’s most talented artists. The Geneva Arts Fair was voted #6 of the Best 50 Shows in America!

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“It’s almost like a family reunion.

Everybody gets together to spend time with friends, play with them and commiserate on things,” he said.

He calls the folk culture “an intentional community.”

“It’s not people that live close to each other but people that have the same interests that are close to each other,” Ulven said.

The music itself has been passed down from one generation to the next, he said.

“It’s music that came down to us that was composed and honed by people that couldn’t write. It existed just in the ether for several hundred years.

It isn’t somebody who bought the sheet music and learned it or bought the album and learned it. A lot of the music people have learned from other people. It’s hearing a song and saying, ‘That’s a song I need to know.’ It’s pretty impressive when you see it in action,” Ulven said.

For more information about this year’s Fox Valley Folk Music and Storytelling Festival, visit www.FoxValleyFolk.com or call (630) 897-3655.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT JULY 2019

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American originals

Artisan Collective a showcase of local talent, craftsmanship

By Vicki Martinka Petersen

One of the advantages of buying produce at a farmers’ market is the opportunity to speak directly with the person who grew those ears of corn you’re taking home. You can ask them how to store it or for unique ways to serve the corn at your cookout.

On the third Saturday of the month at the Batavia Farmers’ Market, shoppers also can chat with over 20 artisans who bring their homemade soaps, jewelry, candles, ceramics, hand carved wood and other eclectic pieces to the market as part of the Artisan Collective.

began showcasing at the Batavia Farmers’ Market in 2015, the goal was to increase exposure for the group as well as the local artists themselves.

“Just like it feels awesome to buy veggies directly from the grower, you get a story to go with the bar of soap you buy,” says Brea Hayes, Artisan

Since 2012, the Artisan Collective has provided downtown Batavia with pop-up market experiences featuring local artisans mainly from Batavia and the Fox Valley area while supporting downtown businesses.

The volunteer-run organization is under the umbrella of Batavia Main Street, a national organization with chapters in different cities dedicated to revitalizing a community’s downtown area. When the Artisan Collective

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Collective co-chair. “We try to make sure the vendors offer an eclectic collection and meet a variety of interests.”

Some artisans, like Annie Scholl, Artisan Collective co-chair, have gone on to open their storefront or to sell their products at other stores in downtown Batavia. Scholl, who used to sell vintage items, decided to include her homemade wedding candle favors at her first Artisan Collective pop up. It proved to be a success as Scholl sold every candle favor. The experience prompted her to begin making her own products

for sale.

Today, Scholl is in the process of opening a new studio space for workshops taught by other artisans and a general store to sell candles, both in Batavia. Her husband, Andy Kenney, a volunteer designer for Artisan Collective, also makes Batavia-themed souvenirs from hats to pins.

As the vendors see their artistic dreams take off, the Artisan Collective is working on attaining its own dreams by rebuilding its brand.

Recently the group created a new

logo and tagline “Shop local art” that’s used in signage at the market.

The group also is launching a new website to offer more information about the organization, feature artisans, and create an easier process to apply as a vendor.

“Artisan Collective is a gem not everyone knows is out there,” Scholl explains. “We want to keep the pop ups affordable and give artists starting out a chance to see what’s working and what needs improvement without making a huge financial commitment.”

Check out the Artisan Collective vendors From 8 a.m. to noon on the third Saturday of the month, July 20; Aug. 17; Sept. 21; and Oct 19, at the Batavia Farmers’ Market on north River Street. The Artisan Collective also does other pop-ups throughout the year, including the Winterfest Art Market in Batavia.

For more information or to sign up as a vendor, email artisancollectivebatavia@gmail.com or check them out on Facebook.

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h it w e ac sp ce an m or rf pe s en op on ti da un Fo

o o R d n a s Blue music fest The Venue poised to raise spirits, fund local arts

By Chris Walker Photos by Mary Beth Nolan

P

lato once said, “Music gives a soul to the universe, wings to the mind, flight to the imagination and life to everything.”

Can you believe a philosopher said all that without ever seeing The Kinks?

It just goes to show you how powerful music can be, and now there’s an awesome new place to hear and see it live in downtown Aurora as The Venue, located at 21 S. Broadway, opened on June 1 with a Blues and Roots Festival.

Audiophiles – your home away from home awaits.

“We’re a little different from other places where you can hear music and be a part of the performances because we are a listening room,” says Lisa Gloria, social media marketing spokesperson for The Venue.

“Our sound is absolutely optimized. We do sell beer and wine, but we’re not a bar. We have signs that tell people to silence their phones and lower their voices because the sound is so clean that if people are talking in the back of the room you can hear it on stage.”

The Venue offers 200 comfortable seats and no obstructed views.

“We’re not an arena, and we’re not a theater,” she says. “It’s a place as comfortable as your living room. We’ve got the best lighting we could get and it’s as intimate as we could make it.”

So if you’re looking for a place to carry on conversations with your buddies or to watch with your phone raised in the air, then you should go elsewhere.

“We’ll go around and ask people to hold their conversations elsewhere because this is a true connoisseur experience,” Gloria says. “This is not meant to be RiverEdge Park or somewhere where there’s a lot of things going on at the same time.”

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oots The Venue also has a retractable stage that will be rolled out onto the adjacent Mundy Park for outdoor music when weather permits.

With plenty of nearby street parking and dining options within walking distance, as well as access to Metra just four blocks away, The Venue removes the cost and time-consuming headaches of traveling from the western suburbs into the city. Most events at The Venue are all ages and a retail area features music-themed items and memorabilia.

Like a long-playing record, it took time, commitment and the vision of those involved in the Fox Valley Music Foundation (FVMF) to make The Venue happen. A not-for-profit organization comprised of music lovers, music educators, arts enthusiasts and people who have dedicated a good chunk of their lives in the music business, the FVMF strives to make a lasting impact. A $125,000 redevelopment grant from the city of government of Aurora certainly helped.

“It’s taken about four years to get here,” Gloria says.

“And they were going to tear down this building.

Even the (Aurora) Mayor (Richard C. Irvin) talked about it before he was mayor and that maybe we could do this together and he’s been instrumental.

There’s a sense of community and personal investment and I think that helped accelerate things and in the end pull it together.”

A multitude of music genres will be featured at The Venue, including international, national and local music, from blues and big band, to rock and world music, and everything in between. The Venue will also be the site of educational events, workshops, films and more.

Some upcoming shows include The Smiley Tillmon Band (July 13), The Accidentals (July 27), Joe Robinson (Aug. 1), Dave Specter (Aug. 3) and Annie

Sellick and Bergeson with special guest Richard Smith (Aug. 25). While the price range for these shows is $15-$25, The Venue already has scheduled free and $5 shows too.

The grand opening went really well and the expectations for the future call for plenty of great shows in a wide-range of genres for enthusiastic music fans.

Gloria recommends considering a $25 Music Lover membership to the Fox Valley Music Foundation, which provides you with advanced notice of foundation-sponsored shows, included those at The Venue, a $2 discount on such tickets, a 10 percent discount on all Foundation merchandise in its retail store and more. And while you’re helping yourself, you’re also helping the Foundation.

“We’re not just looking for the biggest bands, but we’re looking for real quality across a lot of genres,” Gloria says. “As we grow and our reputation grows we’ll be able to bring in bigger names and share them with our subscribers. We have to establish not just our guests, but also the artists as well.”

“It’s not a subscriber series like the Paramount, but we give some really special perks,” Gloria says. “It really pays for itself and it’s for The Venue, for the Foundation.”

Visit https://themusicvenue.org/ for more information.

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THINK YOU KNOW SHAKESPEARE? Geneva event an edgy, fun-filled night of outdoor theater

By Allison Horne

think again

S

hakespeare is known for being one of the greatest writers in history, with a knack for complicating love, death, and having some of the most visited pages on Cliffnotes.

And every summer, folks come out and spread a blanket on the ground to enjoy the quintessential Bard experience – conmmonly known as Shakespeare in the Park But Geneva’s Shakespeare in the Park isn’t your average Shakespeare.

Around since 2007, when the Geneva Cultural Arts Commission decided to add it to the docket, the city’s production is once again affered up by Stone Soup Shakespeare, a professional touring group with roots in Chicago and southern Illinois.

“They present a performance that is quick witted, fast paced with jokes that are easy to understand,” says Gail Gaboda, event chair for Shakespeare at the Park. “Their performances are very comedic, high energy and fast paced.”

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This season, the troupe will be performing “Twelfth Night”, a story about twins Viola and Sebastian as they go on a wild adventure filled with mistaken identities. But this ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT JULY 2019

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Shakespeare production has a twist - a David Bowie twist.

“This year they’re using David Bowie as their music, personas and inspiration,” Gaboda says.

You’re not going to come and see period costumes. The words will not change, but the setting and costumes will. It’s edgier than you’d expect.”

Gaboda emphasizes that there are only six different actors that play multiple parts, so while it’s extremely accessible for all ages, people do need to pay attention.

“If you blink, you might miss something,” Gaboda says.

The inaugural event drew a few hundred people, and since then, they’ve grown yearly and Gaboda estimates they have now closed in on 1,000 people per year.

“It’s just so rewarding to see people come to this event,” Gaboda says.

“It’s such a great sight to see people coming in from both entrances to the park with carts, chairs, picnic baskets and their families and friends.”

Gaboda says that if park dwellers don’t want to bring their own picnic, there will also be food available for purchase onsite. Stockholm’s

will be onsite serving sandwiches and root beer, while Graham’s Fine Chocolates and Ice Cream will be serving up its famous homemade ice cream.

In addition to food, there will be a pre-show craft for children offered by the Geneva Public Library District.

“It’s really an educational experience kids can enjoy,” Gaboda says.

Not only is the event unique and fun, the location at Island Park is also ideal for a night out.

“This event brings people to Geneva so they can experience our lovely town,” Gaboda says. “People can come and explore the restaurants and shops and the city of Geneva.”

The event, which begins at 6 p.m. on July 6, is free to the public, but donations for the Geneva Cultural Arts Commission are accepted. The Shakespeare in the Park Facebook page is the most up-to-date place to get information regarding the event.

“Where else can you have a wonderful night on the Fox River and be entertained for free?”

Gaboda asks.

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PRIDE, PRIVILEGE and

Patriotism America’s symbol of freedom a century-old passion for local business

By Jonathan Bilyk

O

ver the past century, residents of Kane County and elsewhere have flown America’s flags in countless commemorations and celebrations of all things America.

But for nearly 100 years, few businesses, and even fewer families, can claim as large a role in helping to unfurl the country’s star spangled banner across the land of the free as the Christiansen family and their Batavia-based business, FlagSource.

“People display flags to show their support,” says Janice Christiansen, president and CEO of FlagSource. “I always say it is a special responsibility to manufacture the U.S. flag.

“And we are proud and privileged to manufacture the American flag.”

Next year, FlagSource and the Christiansen family will celebrate its 100th year in business.

husband, John. The company is legally known as J.C. Schultz Enterprises, selling its products under the FlagSource trademark.

The company relocated to St. Charles in 1984, and eventually to its current manufacturing plant and headquarters in Batavia in 2005.

Christiansen’s late husband died in 1985, followed two years later by his father. John Christiansen’s brother, Bill, left the business in 1989 to pursue a call as a Christian minister.

Janice Christiansen was then selected as president of the company in 1990.

And in the decades since, she has helped steer the company into its position as a leading manufacturer of American flags and custom flags in the U.S. Christiansen noted America’s desire to wave the flag has ebbed and surged in the past few decades, usually in response to events.

Demand for flags surged in the early 1990s, as the U.S. Armed Forces entered Operation Desert Storm.

That demand, however, was only eclipsed in the years following the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, Americans seemingly could not get enough American flags, she says.

“There was a resurgence of patriotism after 9/11,” Christiansen says.

Theirs is a business built almost entirely on keeping Americans supplied with the country’s most recognizable symbol, to help communities and citizens alike remember and celebrate those moments and dates that make America what it is.

However, in more recent years, that demand for the Stars ‘n’ Stripes has “slowed down gradually,” she says.

The business was founded in 1920 as “a cottage industry” by the grandparents of Christiansen’s late

In 2018, she says, “American flag sales were slow industry wide,”

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“WE ARE PROUD AND PRIVILEGED TO MANUFACTURE THE AMERICAN FLAG.” Janice Christiansen, president and CEO of FlagSource

a trend she says has reversed a bit in 2019.

“We are not sure if that was politically motivated,” Christiansen says.

While America has continued to evolve and change, Christiansen says the way the flags are made has not changed all that much from the beginning to now.

“The manufacturing of American flags is very labor intensive and the technique of making the U.S. flag has pretty much stayed the same,” Christiansen says. “People make flags; it’s not automated.”

She says FlagSource uses an Epoca embroidery machine “with 744 heads” to embroider the star fields on its flags. The stripes, she says, are cut and then sewn together using sewing machines.

From there, the flags are assembled, again, by people, not robots following automated instructions.

“From start to finish, there are about 21 steps to the manufacture of the U.S. flag,” Christiansen says. “We’ve become very efficient at producing the flag,” she added.

In all, the company employs about 70 full-time and temporary workers, she says, with the numbers varying by season and demand. She says the workers are key.

“We know FlagSource is only as good as they are,” Christiansen says. “We depend upon our employees and value their contribution to FlagSource. They are great people.”

In addition to American flags, about half of FlagSource’s

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business now comes from custom flags, banners and other printed products. Other products FlagSource has made include “Wounded Warrior” and POW-MIA flags; “thin blue line” flags to honor police; “Aurora Strong” flags; and flags for the U.S. Armed Forces.

“We’ve made flags and banners for major home builders around the country, and flags for race tracks and sports teams,” Christiansen says.

The bulk of FlagSource’s business, however, remains the American flag. And Christiansen says its largest customers remain dealers across the U.S., who resell FlagSource’s American flags to retailers and other end users.

FlagSource also sells directly to “the hospitality industry” and to the federal and state governments and government agencies, such as the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, as contracts become available to bid, she says.

Christiansen says FlagSource flags can be found in many places throughout the country – and the number of places FlagSource flags can be found continues to grow.

The company, for instance, recently began selling its products on Amazon.

“We are in catalogs for large hardware companies and, depending on the situation, we may sell to events and large corporations,” Christiansen says.

“We also sell to the local Fox Valley residents and businesses.”

Christiansen says a large challenge for American flag makers, like FlagSource, has

arisen in recent years from overseas, as the market has been flooded with American flags, made largely in China.

“The flag industry is relatively small in comparison to other industries,” Christiansen says.

“Chinese-made American flags are a problem because the Chinese do not label their flags properly and people think they are buying an American-made product.”

She says FlagSource and its American-based competitors, who are members of the Flag Manufacturers of America “are seeking some type of regulation” for those Chinese products.

The Christiansen family remains heavily involved in running the company. Christiansen says her two sons, Jon and Spencer – the fourth generation of Christiansens at FlagSource - help to manage operations. Jon serves as the company’s chief operating officer and vice president for production.

Spencer serves as vice president of sales and marketing.

Other family members also are working at FlagSource.

Christiansen noted her 18-yearold grandson will be interning with the company this summer, marking the arrival of the family’s fifth generation in the familyowned and family-run business.

“We are a family business,” she says. “A family business is complicated. It’s not Thanksgiving every day, even though we are all together every day.

“It takes hard work to find the balance that keeps things going.

Next year, we proudly celebrate our 100th anniversary, and I guess that tells the story best.”

BUSINESS & CIVIC JULY 2019

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Locals tee up to fund nutrition at Fox Valley Food for Health Golf outing Photos by Mark Black

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BUSINESS & CIVIC JULY 2019

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Celebrating

Independent Financial Advisors

J

uly 4th, 2019, is the 243rd anniversary of the publication of the Declaration of Independence of the United States of America from Great Britain in 1776. For most of us, this holiday is a

source of great pride and historically has been a day when differences

we may have with each other are set aside as we celebrate our unique and amazing country. The sacrifices of prior generations that have allowed this amazing experiment in democracy and freedom are acknowledged with community parades and gatherings of family and friends in backyards and parks from coast to coast. Although political opinions may vary from person to person, we are fiercely united in our belief that each of us maintains the right to not only have our own,

This fierce disposition can also be found among independent financial advisors and independent financial advisers. Who are these professionals and why should you care? Let’s start by focusing on the independent aspect.

For purposes of this article, licensed independent investment professionals are defined as those who are not employed by a large securities firm that also custodies client assets. Instead, they are typically either self-employed or are employed by a firm that is owned and/or managed by self-employed industry professionals. Because these professionals are independent, they are not tied to any particular family of funds or investment products allowing them to more easily focus on your best interests.

independent beliefs but that we also have the right to express them.

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What is the difference between a financial adviser and a financial advisor? Although the terms sound similar, investment advisers are not the same as financial advisors and should not be confused.  INVESTMENT ADVISER FINRA defines an investment adviser as “an individual or company who is paid for providing advice about securities to their clients.” They typically hold either a FINRA Series 65 or FINRA Series 66 securities license and as a result are an Investment Adviser Representative (IAR) of a Registered Investment Adviser Firm (RIA) and as such are a regulated fiduciary. As fiduciaries, they are held to the highest standard of care and are required to act in the best interests of their clients at all times. They are registered with either the Securities and Exchange Commission and/or state securities regulators and are typically compensated by the investor either paying a fee based on their assets being managed or by paying a negotiated fee for services rendered.  INVESTMENT ADVISOR The term financial advisor is a generic term that usually refers to a broker or a Registered Representative. Although a broker can, and often does, also provide advice the advice that they are providing is technically incidental to their primary role which is to facilitate suitable purchases and/or sales of securities for the investor. A broker’s compensation typically comes in the form of commissions or a mark-up on a security.  PLEASE NOTE Some financial professionals, like me and those at my firm, hold the necessary licenses to be able to act in both the aforementioned capacities and may do so based on what may best serve the client.

For example, we have clients who wish to have us manage the majority of their investments on a discretionary basis as a fiduciary (where I am an IAR) but also wish to have a smaller brokerage account in which they like to occasionally buy and sell stocks and would like our assistance in doing so (where I am a broker).

The number of independent financial advisors has grown significantly over the past few decades. Reasons for this growth can include: • A strong entrepreneurial drive.

• The desire to be unencumbered by proprietary investment products.

• The desire to create one’s own “brand”.

•The goal to focus on the client without other competing interests.

This year when I gather with friends and family to toast our great nation’s independence, I’ll raise my glass a second time to also honor independent advisers and advisors everywhere. Hope you’ll do the same!

1 Financial Industry Regulatory Authority which is the securities industry’s primary self-regulatory organization. You can get background information on both SEC- and state-registered investment advisers by using FINRA BrokerCheck at https://brokercheck.finra.org/

FILE## 2568849.1

 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.

Photo by Indre Cantero

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

My Advisor & Planner is independently owned and operated.

File #0709-2018

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STAY ACTIVE WITHOUT ANKLE PAIN

T

he ability to get outside after a long winter motivates many to start new exercise programs. If chronic ankle problems are halting your new goals, you may want to see specialist to root out the cause before summer is in full swing.

Ankle pain can be caused by a variety of factors.

ANKLE INSTABILITY, due to a history of sprains or joint laxity —loose ligaments — can cause the ankle to be fatigued or achy. In turn, this can cause recurrent sprains. Often ankle instability occurs because of inadequate rehabilitation after a previous injury, which inhibits the muscles around the ankle from reacting fast enough to prevent further injury. This can result in chronic pain, swelling and weakness. Once examinations and X-rays rule out other causes of pain, physical therapy can be effective to help rebuild ankle stability. If physical therapy doesn’t

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HEALTH & WELLNESS JULY 2019

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help, the instability may be from overstretched ligaments. In this case, surgery to repair the ligaments can be effective to improve balance and stability.

ANKLE IMPINGEMENT is another cause of ankle pain. This typically causes swelling and occasionally limited flexion of the ankle due to scar tissue from previous injuries or bone spurs in the front of the ankle. People with ankle impingement often feel motion restriction and pain during flexing, driving and squatting. Physical therapy, footwear modifications and occasionally a cortisone injection can be helpful in relieving pain. If these conservative measures are not effective, minimally invasive arthroscopic surgery can often successfully remove the spurs and inflammatory tissue from the joint to solve the problem.

Ankle pain can also be caused by CARTILAGE DAMAGE or LOOSE BODIES — fragments of bone or cartilage —in the ankle. This is often a result of prior injuries or early arthritis in the ankle joint, and typically presents as deep ankle pain that is hard to pinpoint, catching in the ankle, or even locking up in the joint. Swelling and instability are other symptoms of cartilage damage or loose bodies. After an examination and X-rays are performed, an MRI is often used to confirm the diagnosis. Arthroscopic surgery is often the treatment of choice, allowing removal of loose fragments from the ankle and correction of any cartilage damage. If the injured area is too large, cartilage grafting can be done to restore function.

TENDINITIS (inflammation) of the tendons on the outside of the ankle, or tears in these tendons, can cause pain, swelling and weakness. This type of injury typically is caused by overuse or recurrent ankle injuries or sprains. Treatment can include anti-inflammatory medications, wearing a brace, rest and cross training. Sometimes orthotics or arch supports can help balance out your weight on your foot and ankle. Surgical repair or reconstruction is an option if these treatments fail to restore strength and function.

After any surgical procedure, physical therapy is a vital part of getting you back to full function as soon as possible. Northwestern Medicine offers personalized physical therapy — including gait analysis — at multiple locations and performance centers throughout Kane County. A dedicated team of orthopaedic experts will work with you to get you back on the trails making progress toward your fitness goals.

Jeffrey A. Senall, MD, orthopaedic surgeon, Northwestern Medicine Regional Medical Group Orthopaedics

FOR MORE INFORMATION ON FOOT AND ANKLE INJURIES OR TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT WITH DR. SENALL, VISIT NM.ORG/ ORTHO OR CALL 630.225.2663

T H E PA AT H T O B E T T E R O RTH OPA E DI C CAR E STA RTS HE R E .

Northwestern Medicine Orthopaedics offers specialized care, close to where you live and work. Whether you need care for common injuries or complex issues, we offer a complete range of orthopaedic care including nonsurgical and surgical treatment options. From back pain to hand conditions to joint replacement, our nationally ranked orthopaedics program* combines innovation and expertise to get you back on the path to living a better life. To schedule an appointment, call 630.938.6100 or visit rmg.nm.org/orthopaedics

*Northwestern Medicine Central DuPage Hospital al ranke ranked d #32 #32 in Adu Adult Orthopaedic Hospi ospitals ta by 2018-19 9 U.S. News & Wor World ld Rep Report ortt, 2018-1 SM-CL1671616

HEALTH & WELLNESS JULY 2019

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EVEN WHEN YOU’RE OUT! With Dr. Tarun Mullick

It was time to venture across town to the Cooper’s Hawk, a winery and restaurant on the east side of St. Charles. All the buzz around the combination makes everyone want to try it out.

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To start, I was impressed with that heavenly bun with the kick of salt called the pretzel bread. Because I am counting those carbs, I sliced it up in slivers with that more than adequate bread knife they provide, and ate about a third with plenty of butter. Butter (as you know by now) is a fat and now more in line with a diet to keep you trim.

Then I delved into the chopped wedge salad, which is just a monstrosity of a wedge, perfectly crisp and glistened with an Italian vinaigrette. It is adorned like ornaments on a christmas tree with blue cheese chunks, red onion, sweet grape tomatoes and applewood smoked bacon. And, as if that was not enough, there is a beautiful bleu cheese dressing that drips from every bite to kick up this otherwise generic lettuce to a whole new level.

The pistachio crusted grouper caught my eye. It was perfectly cooked and crusted with the crunch of pistachio, imparting a sweet and a salty flavor to the crust. As you have tried perhaps in the past, pistachio

often is used in desserts. As an outer breading it served to enhance this piece of fish. So too, did a mustard sauce and side of asparagus.

Though the Mary’s potatoes are nice, I asked for extra asparagus instead, to keep up with carb/protein/ fat balance. Needless to say I was happy.

And for your pairing, there is a wide selection of wines from which you can choose. I will leave it up to you to indulge.

 Dr. Tarun Mullick is a specialist trained at Johns Hopkins and Cleveland Clinic in Gastroenterology and Endoscopy based in Geneva. Connect with him at www.mullickmd. com or by phone at 630-232-2025.

HEALTH & WELLNESS JULY 2019

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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.

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

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 are asked:

Q: What can happen

to the liver from drinking alcohol, and is it inevitable?

A: Alcohol in excess can

affect the liver amongst other organs in the body. It can cause mild to severe inflammation, scarring, and eventual cirrhosis.

Cirrhosis is a “rock hardening” of the liver that is not leaving the liver functional and can lead to death or need for a new liver. If issues are caught early, stabilization or reversibility of the liver disease is possible, depending on the individual.

Q: Are genetic tests

like Cologard as good as colonoscopy?

A:

Colonoscopy is the gold standard and best test to detect polyps. It is truly the only test where polyps can be removed when detected.

Cologard is for later growths and misses many polyps

that have different genetic pathways to colon cancer.

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.

Q: Is there a test that can

tell me if my problem is incontinence, or an accident with my bowels, or just an uncontrolled urge?

A: Incontinence, yes, is a real

problem that occurs in many but is not talked about due to embarrassment or just a lack of desire to discuss. There is a test called anal rectal manometry for this that can determine what is going on in that area.

Please make an appointment with a doctor to discuss it further. But there is no need to just live with it.

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.

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PERIPHERAL NERVE TEST Certified center & trained team.

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

PPO, Medicare, and Cash payment accepted

*Results may not be typical.

HEALTH & WELLNESS JULY 2019

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Stockholms

306 W. STATE ST. | GENEVA | (630) 208-7070 STOCKHOLMSBREWPUB.COM Out back and tucked in a nook with the neighboring building, protected by a high fence, and covered with a shade sail, Stockholm’s patio is a little intimate dining gem.

Voted the western suburbs best neighborhood tavern by the readers of both the Kane County Chronicle and West Suburban Living Magazine. Stockholm’s is known for their expansive menu of freshly prepared meals using only the highest quality ingredients. You can also enjoy their handcrafted beers, brewed in an old world tradition, cask-conditioned and unfiltered, from the Tri-City’s oldest brewery.

Mill Race Cyclery 11 E. STATE ST. | GENEVA 630-232-2833 | WWW.MILLRACE.COM

The Mill Race Café, conveniently located along the Fox River Bike Trail, next to the Geneva dam; is a natural stop before a morning walk, during a bike ride, or after a run. The café offers a complete coffee/espresso bar, along with smoothies, sandwiches, salads, and proudly features offerings from local businesses such as Two Brothers coffee & tea, Grahams ice cream, and pastries from Cocoa Bean.

After relaxing on the patio (with free Wi-Fi), visit Mill Race Cyclery to see what is new on two wheels. Rent a bicycle, kayak or stand-up paddleboard to make the summer memorable.

Village Squire

480 RANDALL ROAD | SOUTH ELGIN | 847-931-0400 125 WASHINGTON ST. | WEST DUNDEE | 847-428-4483 WWW.VILLAGESQUIRE.COM Village Squire Restaurants have been a part of the Fox Valley since 1974, family owned and operated. The Squire is an English pub style casual dining restaurant featuring live music Wednesdays through Sundays and a cozy atmosphere with a great outdoor patio featuring two fireplaces for enjoyment in the warm weather months.

Some of their specialties include BBQ babyback ribs that fall off the bone, charbroiled steaks, juicy prime rib and a wide variety of gourmet burgers, salads, sandwiches, flatbreads, pizzas, pasta and fresh fish. Famous for their house drinks, Mai Tais and Rum Barrels are made in house and are an all time favorite.

For a casual drink or dinner, Village Squire is a great place to be!

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Chianti’s

201 S. THIRD ST., GENEVA 630-232-0212 WWW.CHIANTISGENEVA.COM Enjoy the ambiance of a traditional, family-owned Italian restaurant when dining at Chianti’s Ristorante. Relax with a glass of wine or a chilled, local draft beer and classic Italian appetizers such as caprese salad, bruschetta, or garlic bread on our scenic patio situated on Geneva’s 3rd street. Guests can indulge in fan favorite entrees such as Cajun Chicken Tortellini, Garlic Crab pasta, or The Godfather Italian Beef sandwich. Finish the meal with a decadent chocolate turtle cake or a classic cannoli. Summer is here and there is no better time to be at Chianti’s patio!

Spotted Fox Ale House

3615 E. MAIN ST. | ST. CHARLES 630-584-2239 | SPOTTEDFOXALEHOUSE.COM

The Spotted Fox Ale House features upscale American contemporary cuisine and 30 craft beers on tap. Diners can enjoy a meal while relaxing on the outdoor patio overlooking a pond. Menu options include a variety of salads, black angus burgers and entrees made from scratch – such as fresh Atlantic salmon, chicken limon, Cajun chicken and shrimp pasta. Visit the restaurant’s website for daily specials. Spotted Fox Ale House is conveniently located at Route 64 and Kirk Rd., across from Charlestowne Mall, on the east side of St. Charles.

Balmoral Restaurant

40W099 IL ROUTE 64 | CAMPTON HILLS 331-901-5224 | WWW.BALMORALRESTAURANT.COM Welcome to Balmoral Restaurant, named after the royal residence in Aberdeenshire, eastern Scotland. Here you will find a passion for authenticity, nostalgia for heritage, and recipes that have been passed down and held dear. Ingredients sourced from the Isles and from local farmers.

A well-stocked bar, with more than 100 Scotch whiskies. At Balmoral, we bring the incomparable splendor of Scotland to you. It's Grand Scottish Fare at its best! Plus, Balmoral was named Best New Restaurant of 2019 by both the Daily Herald and Kane County Chronicle. Plan your evening out on our patio, and taste for yourself!

DINING & ENTERTAINING JULY 2019

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TOM’S COOKBOOK LIBRARY:

‘The scoop’ on homemade ice cream

By TOM WITOM

“S

alt & Straw Ice Cream Cookbook” (Clarkson Potter), by Tyler Malek and food writer JJ Goode, is the inspired book that ice cream lovers have long anticipated.

The eight-year-old Portland, Ore. business was cofounded by Tyler Malek and his cousin Kim Malek who serve, respectively, as head ice cream maker and CEO. The business started humbly as an ice cream cart serving eight flavors to 18 brick-andmortar locations creating more than 300 flavors.

Readers will find more than 100 recipes, including, the classic Sea Salt with Caramel Ribbons (below). Contents also cover equipment,

32

ingredients and techniques involved in making ice cream, gelato and sorbet.

One intriguing chapter focuses on integrating beer into the mix with recipes using Smoked Heffweizen, Hopped Farmhouse Ale and Imperial Stout Milk Sorbet with Blackberry-Fig Jam. Strawberry-Cilantro Sorbet and Meyer Lemon Blueberry Butter3milk Custard figures in another. Meanwhile, Honey Lavender Ice Cream is guaranteed to give taste buds a new experience.

 Journalist Tom Witom, who lives

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

SEA SALT WITH CARAMEL RIBBONS (MAKES ABOUT 2 PINTS) • 1 1/4 teaspoons fleur de sel • 3 cups Ice Cream Base, very cold (recipe on next page) • 1/2 cup Perfect Ice Cream Caramel (recipe on next page) Combine 1/4 cup water and the fleur de sel in a small saucepan, set it over medium heat and cook, stirring, just until the salt has completely dissolved, less than 1 minute. Let it cool to room temperature.

Put the ice cream base and the salt mixture into a bowl and whisk to combine. Pour the mixture into an ice cream maker and turn on the machine. Churn just until the mixture has the texture of soft-serve.

Put the caramel in a warm place or warm it in a small saucepan over very low heat just until it’s drizzleable, but not so warm that it will melt the ice cream.

Quickly alternate spooning layers of the ice cream and drizzling on a generous spiral of caramel in freezer-friendly containers.

Cover with parchment paper, pressing it to the surface of the ice cream so it adheres, then cover with a lid. It’s okay if the parchment hangs over the rim. Store in the coldest part of your freezer (farthest from the door) until firm, at least 6 hours. It will keep for up to 3 months.

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ICE CREAM BASE

PERFECT ICE CREAM CARAMEL

(MAKES ABOUT 3 CUPS)

(MAKES ABOUT 1 3/4 CUPS)

• 1/2 cup granulated sugar • 2 tablespoons dry milk powder • 1/4 teaspoon xanthan gum (available at most supermarkets) • 2 tablespoons light corn syrup • 1 1/3 cups whole milk • 1 1/3 cups heavy cream

• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar • 1/4 cup light corn syrup • 1 1/4 cups heavy cream

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, cut into several pieces • 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt

Combine the sugar, corn syrup and 1/4 cup water in a medium saucepan, and stir until all of the sugar looks wet. Cover, set the pan over medium-high heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has completely melted, about 3 minutes.

Put the pan over medium-high heat again.

Attach a candy thermometer to the side of the pan. Let the mixture simmer away, stirring it occasionally, until it registers 230 degrees F on the thermometer, about 3 minutes. Take the pan off the heat and add the butter and salt, stirring slowly but constantly until the butter has completely melted.

Combine the sugar, dry milk and xanthan gum in a small bowl and stir well.

Pour the corn syrup into a medium pot and stir in the whole milk.

Add the sugar mixture and immediately whisk vigorously until smooth. Set the pot over medium heat and cook, stirring often and adjusting heat if necessary to prevent a simmer, until the sugar has fully dissolved, about 3 minutes. Remove the pot from the heat.

Add the ice cream and whisk until fully combined. Transfer the mixture to an airtight container and refrigerate until well chilled, at least 6 hours, or for even better texture and flavor, 24 hours. Stir the base back together if it separates during the resting time. The base can be further stored in the fridge for up to 1 week ir in the freezer for up to 3 months. (Just be sure to fully thaw the frozen base before using it.)

Continue to cook, covered but this time without stirring, until the mixture has thickened slightly, about 3 minutes. Remove the lid and continue cooking without stirring but paying close attention, until the mixture turns the color of dark maple syrup, about 5 minutes more.

Let the caramel cool to room temperature, then use it right away or transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate it for up to 2 weeks. Separation is totally normal; just make sure to stir the caramel well before using it.

Take the pan off the heart and immediately and gradually pour in the cream, going slowly at first and then speeding up to a nice steady stream, whisking as you pour.

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

“Rookies All American Pub & Grill” DINING & ENTERTAINING JULY 2019

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Chili

in the

summertime A hot and tasty treat

BY DIANE KRIEGER SPIVAK

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DINING & ENTERTAINING JULY 2019

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W

hile springtime here in the Midwest was a bit chilly (well, okay, more than just a bit) many folks have been extending their go-to wintertime comfort food season with — you got it...chili.

Even summer’s warmer weather doesn’t deter diehard chili lovers, so we’ve rounded up a few of the best places in the Tri-Cities area to grab a bowl of that wonderful, hearty, meaty, beany, delight. Check them out, if you haven’t already.

 CROSSTOWN PUB & GRILL 1890 Mill St., Batavia (630) 406-0669 • Xtownpub.com This local neighborhood pub “Where everybody knows your name” has served up a signature recipe for the past two and a half years. Crosstown’s chili has lots of spices, ground chuck, ground brisket, chorizo,ground chuck, kidney beans and chili beans. The spices are a secret.

“I love spicey, so to the general public it’s a little spicy, nothing crazy,” says Eric Lyon, president of operations for Cross Town. “It’s a good, overall, all-around chili. We serve it in crocks with cheese, onion, sour cream and tortilla chips. We sell quite a bit of our chili to go.”

Note: Come back when the Bears play during the regular season. Cross Town serves a half-time chili bar free to all patrons, with all the fixin’s.

 GAMMON COACH HOUSE 3 & 7 S. Batavia Avenue, Batavia (630) 482-3663 • gammoncoachhouse.com Known for its American comfort food and craft beer, it’s easy to see why Gammon Coach House and chili just simply “go together like a horse and carriage.”

“I would put our chili up against just about anybody,” says Jon With, partner at Gammon Coach House. “I have a cup of it every single day, so I can’t give a better recommendation than that.”

The restaurant has been serving chili since it opened eight years ago. “We have our own in-house recipe. It has ground beef with beans, and we garnish it with some fresh chopped onion and a little bit of cheese, if you’d like,” says With. “It’s a little bit more on the spicy side, but it’s chili, so it should be. It’s on the thick side, but not so much that you can’t put oyster crackers into it to thicken it up. Everybody seems to love it.

It’s been one of those staples where people come in and right away they go, ‘Well, I’ll have the chili, and then I’ll think about what else I’m going to have.’ That’s one of the first things they think about.”

sauces from Gindo’s. “He’s a local fellow, and he uses fresh, locally grown peppers, says Smith. “For people who like to spice it up, he’s got three basic flavors — a regular original, jalapeno and a habanero. That gives our chili a little twist. They can add whatever they want to it to sass it up a little bit. It’s hearty, medium thick chili and appeals to almost everybody. After all these years people still come up to us and say, ‘That was a darn good bowl of chili.’”

Proof positive that people eat chili in the summer? “We make up fresh batches of chili at least twice a week,” says With.“It goes great with ice cold beer, because we’ve got some of the best craft beer in the Fox Valley.”

“We’ve served chili since we opened eight years ago. It’s something we do year-round because we do get requests for it,” says Tiffany Cozzi, general manager of The Office, Dining & Spirits, which specializes in New American food and beer. Cozzi says the pub’s chili is not super spicy. “We use three meats in it.”

 SMITTY’S ON THE CORNER 15 E. Main St., St. Charles (630) 762-1080 • eatatsmittys.com Known for its gourmet sandwiches, the neighborhood cafe also serves up a mean bowl of chili.

“We’ve been in business for 19 years, and we’ve had chili all along; it’s the same recipe,” says Ann Smith, who co-owns the cafe with husband Steve “Smitty” Smith. A basic recipe, “Nothing too crazy, just down-home regular chili with ground beef, kidney beans, onion, green pepper and tomato.”

The secret to Smitty’s chili is a line of hot

 THE OFFICE 201 E. Main St., St. Charles (630) 549-0287 • theofficestc.com

What kind of meats is a secret, but Cozzi will say some is in small chunks and some ground. Kidney beans, different veggies and seasonings round out the recipe. “We sell a lot of it,” Cozzi says. “It’s not super, super thick like some chilis are, but it’s not so thin that it’s like a soup.”

You can get The Office’s chili loaded with jalapenos onions, sour cream, cheese, and topped with tortilla chips. “We let people request what they would like on top of it. We have a gorgeous patio and it’s a great place to eat chili,” says Cozzi.

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State Chili Cookoff JULY 27 BATAVIA RIVERWALK There are 2 competition categories, CASI and Traditional Chili.

Enter at www.bataviaparks.org Free admission, open to the public Tasting spoons available for $5 suggested donation.

Concessions available Chill out and join in the fun as Batavia plays host to the annual State Chili Cookoff Championship. Sponsored by the Batavia Park District and the Batavia Chamber of Commerce, under the Chili Appreciation Society International (CASI.) Competitors come to qualify for the national championship in Terlingua, Texas Oct. 28

through Nov. 2.

“The cool thing about ours and the reason it has always been hosted in the summer is that this is the end of the annual qualifying time,” says Holly Deitchman, past president of the Batavia Chamber. “Because we’re a state qualifier, even if you’ve never won or gotten points anywhere else in the United States, if you win a state championship –like ours here in Batavia – you are an automatic qualifier. There’s even a community organization division with a people’s choice award, and a junior division.”

The day is full of fun and games for all ages, including a watermelon eating contest and a firehose challenge. For more information, visit www.bataviaparks.org.

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esse rts 306 W State Street Downtown Geneva 630-208-7070 www.stockholmsbrewpub.com

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DINING & ENTERTAINING JULY 2019

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Your Grilling Headquarters this Summer BACKYARD PARTIES WITH YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS

er We makieeotvies

100 var ed of Smok d Meats an s Sausage

Ream’s Meat Market

Burgers Steaks Chicken Kabobs Our Own Italian Beef Smoked Pulled Pork Homemade Deli Salads Meat and Cheese Trays National Grand Champion Bratwurst Beef Wieners and more

www.ReamsMeatMarket.com

A GREAT OLD FASHIONED FULL SERVICE MEAT MARKET SM-CL1662054

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Historic slice

of rural American life

By Diane Krieger Spivak Photos by Marky Beth Nolan

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early 200 years ago, life in the United States was a world away from the way things are now. In the 1840s, wagon trains began carrying homesteaders from the Midwest to the West Coast on six-month long journeys, Texas became the 28th state in the Union, and the Gold Rush was on.

with community activity, including dances in its ballroom, serving as a local meeting place and a place to spend the night for hundreds of teamsters and travelers. The 163-acre site later became a farm, and today, thanks to a legion of volunteers and donors, brings its history back to life for thousands of visitors each year.

It was also during this time, in 1841, that Timothy Garfield bought the 1835 land claim of Sam Culbertson, the first settler on 163 acres 40 miles west of Chicago and 5 miles west of Geneva, Illinois, now known as Campton Hills. Garfield built a brick inn on the site in 1846 and it buzzed

“The site is a historically intact, formerly 1840s Illinois prairie farmstead and country inn being restored as a living history farm,” says Jerome Johnson, executive director and one of the founders of the project. “There’s nothing like it around. We’ve been working since 1977 to preserve

the site.”

Fortunately, the Garfield family made minimal changes to the site, which also includes a plethora of documentation and artifacts. The farm has grown from 163 acres and 8 historic structures to 375 acres and 27 structures with the acquisition of an adjacent farm and restoration and creation of more buildings.

Garfield Farm also boasts land that was never plowed, which is a rarity, and one that preserves the prairie as it once was, providing the backdrop for the site’s various educational ecological tours.

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Opportunities at Garfield Farm On July 6 at 7 p.m. the farm hosts its Settlers Evening Dance, celebrating the Culbertsons’ and Garfields’ settling of the area. “It’s a chance to learn historic dances of the time period,” says Johnson. Visitors can participate in old-time quadrille, or square, dancing and contra, or line, dances, like the Virginia Reel, to the music of a dulcimer, with a caller on hand to make it even more fun.

Homemade pies included. $10 per person. Reservations required.

Learn the basics of archaeology in two field sessions, July 9-13 and July 16-20. Registration required.

July 9-11 and 23-25 feature two three-day Children’s Farm Camps, offering young people ages 8-15 a chance to learn about farm life in the 1840s. Activities include feeding animals and tours of the Garfield Farm Museum. $75 per week. Registration required.

One addition to the farm’s lineup is a special event slated for July 13 to dedicate the restoration of the farm’s largest building, the 1906 dairy barn, an 88- by 30-foot, 2,400-square-foot structure. “It’s a half million-dollar project,” says Johnson. The event will include a live portrayal of Theodore Roosevelt, who was president when the barn was built. “Roosevelt” will reprise the colorful president’s life, including his boyhood adventures and work as president of the United States. “It will be a fundraiser for the Collections Building we’re constructing at the other farm to preserve and protect our artifacts,” says Johnson.

Visitors will be admitted to the dedication and program with a $50 donation that includes refreshments. The 5 p.m. event requires advanced ticket sales. Visitors can register on the Garfield Farm website.

The oldest building on the main farmstead is the1842 hay and threshing barn. The site also includes the 1846 tavern/country inn and an 1849 horse barn that housed the horses of the customers staying at the inn.

Johnson stressed the importance of history, farming and environment.

“They’re inseparable to understand why this area was settled,” Johnson says.

“Landowners were the first farmers coming together to establish this country with democracy to elect leadership to make laws to protect private property ownership. Over 80 percent of the

population worked on farms. Illinois has some of the best soils in the world.

“We’re working with a very historic site on the National Register of Historic Places. That gives us an opportunity to work toward portraying what life was like when this part of Illinois was first being settled and developed agriculturally,” says Johnson.

To date, more than $12 million and thousands of volunteer hours have gone into the restoration.

“We’re looking at our 50th anniversary in 2027,” says Johnson. “We have a bucket

August programs include the Antique Tool Show the first Sunday, a Garden Show Aug. 25, featuring historic varieties of vegetables and flowers, Other events are Blacksmithing, the Rare Breed Livestock and Poultry Show, October Harvest Days, where visitors can help flail wheat, shell and husk corn and make candles, and the Candlelight Inn the first weekend in December.

Garfield Farm Museum also welcomes school field trips.

Go to the website’s educational resources page for more details.

Internships in natural areas management and museum management are also available for high school, college, and graduate school students.

For more information about Garfield Farm send an e-mail message to: info@garfieldfarm.org or call 630/584-8485

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list for that – a $4 million project to get everything finished up.”

Garfield Farm offers a host of historic, ecological and entertainment programs, events and activities that are family-friendly, including seminars on prairie, woodlands and wetlands management, bat and blue bird box construction and fruit tree grafting.

Visitors can learn about and see rare breed livestock, heirloom gardens and antique farm tools during special shows. The farm also hosts social events like barn dances, a candlelight tavern reception, and more.

Take a basic one-hour tour of the buildings and grounds by appointment or just drop in in summer. During the two-hour tour, volunteers explain the history behind the structures, and talk about the farms animals like sheep, pigs turkeys and geese.

“People can see what they might have had on an 1840s farm like this,” says Johnson.

“It requires several visits over a season to get the feel of the place,” says Johnson. “It’s not just a one-time experience. There’s more to see.”

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FAMILY IN FOCUS JULY 2019

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 SUBURBAN SUPERDAD 

OUR GREATEST NATIONAL TREASURES are the people who surround us With Jonathan Bilyk

W

hen the message came, it wasn’t unexpected. But it was still a bit jarring nonetheless.

While primarily a work trip, the conference and meeting schedule allowed time to squeeze in a few days of sight-seeing on either side.

express our appreciation to these people, to these national treasures, and to just sit and talk with them.

A man who I respected, professionally and personally, had passed during the night. We had only met a few years before, as part of a professional project. And we didn’t see each other often, most of our communication coming via the methods created to facilitate remote work in the 21st Century.

Obviously, when traveling to Philadelphia, no trip is complete without multiple cheesesteaks and a visit to America’s birthplace, Independence Hall. A tour of the old hall – where both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were debated and signed – leads thoughtful visitors to contemplate the historical luminaries who once walked the grounds.

It’s a lesson I hope to impart to my young ones, encouraging them to set aside the trivial and press for the profound, to find their own treasures in the company of people more seasoned than they, to develop deep relationships and allow the experience and wisdom of others to help guide their development.

A little over a year earlier, at a gathering in another city, he pledged to take time to sit together soon, and build that relationship. I looked forward to picking his brain a bit, to glean tidbits – or better yet, big bytes – of information from his decades of experience, and improve my craft a bit more.

Then, earlier this year, we learned the news of his illness, followed by a grim prognosis. It at least afforded the opportunity to say goodbye in an exchange of electronic communications – again, in a 21st Century way.

A few months later, he was gone.

When the message came, it was immediately juxtaposed against a commotion from upstairs.

My little ones were on the floor above me, arguing loudly over some trivial matter, as children do.

The dour moment was quickly lifted by a chuckle, as I reflected upon the last time my colleague and I had seen each other, in Philadelphia. And my thoughts turned to Nicholas Cage.

While such national treasures as Thomas Jefferson, George Washington and Philly’s own Ben Franklin are front and center, now tour guides in Philadelphia will often reference another kind of “National Treasure,” the 2004 film by that name starring Cage. In that film, Cage and his co-stars follow clues that lead them to steal the original Declaration of Independence to decipher a treasure map hidden on the back of the historic document to locate a massive treasure trove, stashed away by the Founding Fathers at the time of America’s founding.

While a fun, yet insipid, guilty pleasure, the film helped put into words how I felt about my colleague, and a number of other aging friends, family members, mentors and former co-workers, all of whom have accompanied me on my path, even if for a short time, and played important roles in shaping me.

Too often, pressed by demands large and small, and often trivial, most of us struggle to find time to

Perhaps that encouragement can be delivered not in telling, but in doing, as they see me set the example.

But amid the busyness of life and work, inevitably, a message will come again, telling of the passing of yet another treasure. Hopefully, it will not also deliver the disappointing feeling that comes of wondering why we so often expect there will always be next year.  Jonathan Bilyk writes about the triumphs and travails of being a modernday 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.)

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HAVE BOAT WILL PAD Fox River provides endless summer boating possibilities

By Sara Carlson

I

n the early 1900s, the Fox River put St. Charles on the map, drawing people near and far to its shores to swim, boat and canoe. More than 100 years later, the river is still the picturesque centerpiece of town, and continues to offer numerous summer recreational possibilities. Renovations to existing public boat launches by the St. Charles Park District also have enhanced the summer boating experience.

“The Fox River is a magnificent and valuable natural resource.

We are grateful for the opportunity to be good stewards of it,” said Laura Rudow, Superintendent of Parks and Planning, Deputy Director.

“Boating and paddle sports are

42

lifelong activities. Whether it’s on a kayak, motorboat or the new paddlewheel riverboats, cruising the river is something all ages can enjoy.”

The Park District makes it easy and convenient to take advantage of the river with many new kayaking lessons, tours and boat rentals.

A new partnership with Rocktown Adventures will provide two new kayaking classes for beginners and experienced kayakers. Participants in both classes will meet at Ferson Creek, and then be bussed north to Taly Park by the river, where the tour will begin. Rocktown will bring the kayaks and life jackets.

Intro to Kayaking provides a 2.5 hour class to learn how to kayak, practice basic paddling strokes, rescue techniques and more. The lesson begins with 30 minutes of safety instruction on land before putting kayaks in the river for a 4-mile leisurely paddle. July classes are from 5:30-8pm Wednesday, July 10, and from 9-11:30am

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Along the banks of the Fox River Mt. St. Mary Park • St. Charles

sculpture

FREE! IN THE

PARK MAY-SEPTEMBER 2019

DDLE Sunday, July 28.

Paddle & Learn, on the other hand, is for intermediate to experienced kayakers who are curious about the native habitats surrounding the river.

The one-time event meets from 9am12pm Saturday, Aug. 17. Rocktown Adventures will lead the tour, but a Park District naturalist will join the group to provide commentary about the natural areas and wildlife on the 4-mile paddle.

The Park District also offers Learn to Row classes with instruction by the St. Charles Rowing Club. Classes for July are from 9-11:30am MondayWednesday, July 22-24 or July 29-31.

For ages 12 and older, participants will learn basic rowing techniques, safety practices and handling of equipment.

Residents who want to enjoy the beauty of the river but are missing a boat should head to Pottawatomie Park to rent a kayak or four-person pedal boat. For $17 per hour, per boat, families, couples and friends can take their time and explore the river from the railroad trestle to the south, to the no wake buoys to the north. The fee includes life jackets. For more information about rentals, visit www. riverviewminigolf.org Additionally, there are public boat launches on various sides of town: Mt. St. Mary on the south, Ferson Creek on the north and Boy Scout Island in between.

Ferson Creek now has a new lowprofile dock, for a more convenient launch site for kayaks, canoes and rowing sculls. The Park District

also built a boat storage rack.

Residents pay $10, per 10-feet of boat, per month to store and lock their boats throughout the season.

For the love of art in the park People of all ages are welcome to enjoy this magnificent free exhibit of original and unique sculpture.

Interested in purchasing a piece of art?

For more information: 630-513-4319

Mt. St. Mary Park is located at Rt. 31 & Prairie St. along the beautiful Fox River in St. Charles.

“The improvements encourage recreation on the river and takes away barriers that made it less accessible and less convenient for residents who enjoy paddle sports,” Rudow said.

stcsculpture.org

Cruise the Scenic Fox River

Major improvements were made to Boy Scout Island as well.

As the only motorboat launch, the parking lot was renovated to accommodate more trucks and trailers by adding 10 more 30-foot spaces, in addition to more regular vehicle spots. The pay hut also has been replaced with a pay box. Annual passes continue to be available at the Pottawatomie Community Center, daily fees paid in cash are accepted onsite.

For more information about public boat launches, call 630584-1885.

Individuals and families who want to take in the beauty of the river without the work, should step aboard an 1800s replica paddlewheel riverboat. New themes are available from sunset and happy hour tours to nature and children’s cruises, and many more. Public cruises, special events and private charters are available all summer.

For a schedule visit, www. stcriverboats.com/

Public Cruise Departure Times from Pottawatomie Park, St. Charles June, July & Aug

Sep & Oct

M-F: 1:30pm Sa & Su: 2pm, 3pm, 4pm Sa: 2pm, 3pm, 4pm Su: 2pm, 3pm, 4pm, 5pm Holidays: 2pm, 3pm, 4pm Ages 10 & under must be accompanied by a person, age 16+, at the ratio of 1 adult per 2 children. The safety of passengers is of utmost importance to the St. Charles Park District. The captain reserves the right to cancel a cruise at any time, especially during inclement weather.

stcriverboats.com 630-584-2334 !

/stcriverboats

PUBLIC CRUISE TICKETS available online at stcriverboats.com or at the Pottawatomie Community Center

Cruise Admission

Ages 16+ $8.50 Ages 3-15 $7 Ages 2 & under FREE FAMILY IN FOCUS JULY 2019

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B Backyard bashes, b booms, and barbecues big

With Chrissy Somers, www.FamiliesOnTheFox.com

Summer is upon us, and I may or may

not have already taken the kids to the pool enough times to make my pool membership worthwhile. But now that July is here, I’ve got two things on my mind: fireworks and backyard parties.

Our weekends in July are always loaded with friends, backyard bashes, pools and sprinklers, and plenty of great memories being made by all.

Whether you want to host a kick-butt party, attend a kick-butt party, or you just want to know where all the fireworks are going to be in the TriCities, I’ve got you covered! Read on to get some ideas, friends!

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NEIGHBORHOOD PROGRESSIVE PUB CRAWL

WHAT IS IT: Heard of a Progressive Dinner? This is similar... except it’s adult beverages and finger foods selected based on a theme. You will need four “Host Houses”. These are the houses you are walking to throughout the evening. “Host Houses” also provide the themed beverages for the evening.

Everyone else will be a “Co-Host”. “Co-Hosts” will partner with a “Host House” and provide a themed appetizer or dish to share with the group.

WHY DO IT: No one is drinking and driving! No one has to pay for an Uber! You are staying in your neighborhood and walking to each other’s homes (the closer the houses, the easier it will be to complete this progressive pub crawl).

WHAT’S THE THEME: Last year, my amazing neighbors and I used the theme “United States of

America” to guide our attire, beverage concoctions, and appetizers. Our four “Host Houses” were Wisconsin, Hawaii, Georgia, and Michigan. When we visited the Wisconsin house, we drank New Glarus beer and ate cheese curds and other cheeses from Wisconsin farms. At the Hawaii house, we drank Mai Tais and ate bacon-wrapped pineapples.

And so on... you get the point! Be creative with the theme. This year, we are rocking out to an ‘80s theme! I have a feeling the Ted Nugent cocktail will make a comeback!

BARBECUE MUST-HAVES

Hahn’s Bakery Pretzel Buns If you’ve never had the pretzel bread products at Hahn’s Bakery in Geneva, you are missing out on an important part of your adult life. Like, it’s lifechanging. Alright, maybe that’s extreme, but they

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AREA FOR OVER 45 YEARS

• From Major Collision Damage to Minor Dent & Scratch Repair • Paintless Repair • Lifetime Warranty Hours: Monday–Friday 7:30–5:30pm Saturday 9:00–11:00am

Josef’s Meats & Delicatessen Just a few blocks west of Hahn’s Bakery, you will find one of my favorite butchers in the Tri-Cities. With a focus on freshness and quality products, your bound to find premium dogs, brats, and burgers at Josef’s! There even is a wide selection of premade side dishes and pastas in the freezer section.

DRM European Cafe & Delicatessen Every party needs good appetizers and side dishes. I highly recommend the sweet pierogi because... well, it’s delicious! But don’t leave without the potato pancakes, schnitzel, stuffed cabbage rolls, or the creamy cucumber & fresh dill salad! DRM makes it easy on you by allowing you to order online or phone it in!

Blue Goose Market Festive sweet treats are a must for any barbecue and Blue Goose carries it all in the bakery department.

You can buy fresh, premade baked products, or put in a request for custom cake, cookies, or other sweets to bring to your next red, white, and blue summer bash!

Fox River Distilling Company Did you realize the Tri-Cities have their own distillery? From vodka to whiskey, bourbon to limoncello, its all right in

Geneva Fun fact: All of the clear spirits are gluten-free! And if you haven’t visited the distillery yet but want to take a tour, just say “Families on the Fox” when you arrive and you will get buy one get one free tours (that’s two tours and tastings for only $10).

NEEDLE THINGS Yarn Shop and Handcrafted Boutique

Discover Our Many Handcrafted Specialties

WHERE TO SEE FIREWORKS St. Charles July 4 | Pottawatomie Park Geneva Thursdays - Sundays, Home Games Kane County Cougars games throughout the season (use promo code FOTF at checkout on KCCougars. com to redeem buy one get one free tickets all season long)*

*

Rt. 64

630-584-5115

John Merkle Photography are seriously delicious! The pretzel bread comes in a variety of styles: hamburger buns, rolls, classic pretzel, and more.

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

Randall Rd.

TRI

CITY AUTO SERVING THE FOX VALLEY

Knit Hats & Gloves | Jewelry | Pottery | Cards Field Artwork & Antiques from Africa Toys | Tutus

Large Variety of Yarn & Supplies Classes are scheduled & private lessons can be arranged, but complimentary advice is always available!

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Handmade Greeting Cards, Coasters & Magnets

426 S. Third St., Geneva • 630-232-9915

Batavia July 4 | Batavia High School For more details and times, visit FamiliesOnTheFox.com/summerguide.

Here, you will also find all the concerts in the park, movies in the park, Fox River rentals, area fireworks details, festivals, special events, and more.

Let’s make the most of this month and spend it making memories in the backyard with those we care most about.

We have everything you need to accessorize your summer!

Cheers to a fun-filled summer, friends!

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, preplanned date nights, adult fun outings, s, and more can be found when you visit www.FamiliesOnTheFox.com Photo by Fox + Grey Photography

Jewelry ! Handbags! Scarves ! Unique Gifts 226 S. Third St. • Geneva • 630-457-5606 falmouthroadjewelry.com FAMILY IN FOCUS JULY 2019

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As American as apple pie

Shaw Media file photos

(AND FUNNEL CAKE, CORN ON THE COB, RODEOS AND PIG RACES)

K

ane County Fair celebrates 151 years of traditional summer family fun and 4-H on Wednesday, July 17 through Sunday, July 21. The Kane County Fair is one of the oldest and long-standing fairs in the country. It’s legacy has been has woven throughout Kane County from Aurora and Elgin to St. Charles, where the present Kane County Fairgrounds settled on Randall Road in 1955.

A special pre-Kane County Fair event of Fantasy Amusements unlimited carnival rides specials with no gate admission takes place on Wednesday, July 17.

Take in the sights and sounds of the Kane County Fair for four more days of live music on the sound stage and action-packed thrills in the grandstand.

Enjoy many new events this year and traditional favorites.

THE SCHEDULE OF LIVE EVENTS INCLUDES:  Thurs., July 18 at 7pm - Libido Funk Circus  Thurs., July 18 at 7pm - Monster Truck Show (grandstand, $10 )  Fri., July 19 at 8pm - Hillbilly Rockstarz

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 Fri., July 19 at 7pm - Professional Championship Bullriders & Cowgirls (grandstand, $14)  Sat., July 20 at 1pm - Championship Cowgirl Barrel Racing (grandstand, $10)  Sat., July 20 at 8pm - Hi-Infidelity  Sun., July 21 at 7pm - 7th Heaven  Sun., July 21 at 4pm - Demolition Derby (grandstand, $10) Also, delight in a classic car show featuring stock/modified old/new cars, trucks and motorcycles, on display outdoors for viewing on Sat., July 20 and Sun., July 21.

It’s a hot lineup of entertainment to fill your midsummer nights.

But during the hottest part of the day, cool down in the Prairie Events Center building and visit the wine tasting garden, (designed by Spring Bluff Nursery in Sugar Grove) with specials from local award-winning wineries, including Prairie State Winery, August Hill Winery and Galena Cellars Winery, featuring live entertainment, and a Kane County Fairwine glass with any $10 wine tasting purchase. Browse the many offerings

from local businesses at the Commercial Expo, stretch your brain with friends and family at the Mind Works interactive games and giant puzzles, or enjoy a host of kids games offered up by Kane County’s own All-Star Sports.

ADMISSION, CARNIVAL AND HOURS DETAILS:

More indoors fun is at the ready in Robinson Hall with Illinois licensed bingo (B-04001) and pull tab (P-01921) sponsored by the Elburn Lions Club.

Free vision screenings will be available for children ages 6 months to 18 years.

Donations will also be accepted of old eyeglasses and cases.

THURS., JULY 18 - 3 TO 11PM  $5 admission (ages 3 & older); seniors free and military with ID until 5pm; free - age 2 and under; $20 unlimited carnival rides.

Take in the fun and excitement daily on the midway: with daily unlimited carnival ride specials; sizzling food; 4-H animals; Bengal Tiger Show; Swift Swine racing pigs; Balster’s Sheer Magic Show; Friendly Farms petting zoo and more.

The Kane County Fair is sponsored in part

by Amita Health Saint Joseph Hospital Elgin, Amita Health Mercy Medical Center Aurora, Euclid Beverage, and Golf Club of Illinois.

The Fair is located at Randall Road and Oak Street in St. Charles. For more information and to sign up for email news, visit www.kanecountyfair.com.

WED., JULY 17 - 3 TO 11PM  Free admission to fairgrounds; $20 unlimited carnival rides

FRI., JULY 19 - NOON TO MIDNIGHT  $10 admission; $5children 3-12; free 2 and under; $20 unlimited carnival rides from Noon to 5 p.m.

SAT., JULY 20 - NOON TO MIDNIGHT  $10admission; $5 children 3-12; free 2 and under; $20unlimited carnival rides from Noon to 5 p.m.

SUN., JULY 21 - NOON TO 10PM  $10 admission; $5 children 3-12; free 2 and under; $20. unlimited carnival rides from Noon to 5 pm; Last Blast unlimited carnival rides 6pm to close.

Special ticket/carnival prices available to be purchased in advance through a secure connection at www. kanecountyfair.com.

FAMILY IN FOCUS JULY 2019

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FAMILY IN FOCUS JULY 2019

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THE GARDEN’S WORST ENEMY….

P OOR .

E G A N I A R D S

oggy yards and muddy landscapes are not the fun exciting garden topics I normally like to write about. But this year with the Great Monsoons of May (and the Great Snows of April), I have seen many yards this year with drainage issues. Some have been minor fixes and others have some serious ponds showing up in their backyards.

Here’s some tips on what you can do to either fix or improve your garden drainage issues.

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HOME & LIFESTYLE JULY 2019

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BURY YOUR DOWNSPOUTS:

Most houses have gutters that just drop down and drain right back to the foundation. That just deposits a whole lot of water right back around the house and into the sump (or basement!). An easy fix is to extend the downspouts out into the lawn and have a pop-up emitter drain the water into the lawn vs. the foundation and landscape beds. Of course, use caution and always make sure you are respectful of property lines and the natural drainage swales built into your neighborhood.

Sometimes it’s only a few feet of extensions and other times it might be 20+ feet to direct the water away from the house and towards the swales or storm drains.

DO NOT BUILD BERMS:

Berm is a fancy name for a hill. You see them all over and often they are several feet high. If your yard is flat, and you build a berm, you essentially just built an expensive dirt hill that will plug your drainage swale and flood your yard (or your neighbor’s!) in no time. Keep your yard grade AS-IS. The few feet of dirt you add will not add height to plantings as the cost of bringing in truckloads of dirt outweighs the cost of just upsizing the plants you buy. Berms do nothing but destroy the pre-configured drainage swales and cause water damming and squishy spots in your yard.

DO NOT CHANGE YOUR GRADE:

In most towns and municipalities (and subdivisions governed by HOA’s), it may be against ordinances or rules to alter the grade of your yard. If you are having

drainage issues, contact an excavator or the City engineers and have them weigh in before you dump dirt in places you shouldn’t. I have seen many neighbors’ yards flooded because another neighbor decided to build berms or direct gutters or sumps into their neighbors’ yards. Be a good neighbor and take the professional path before you start messing with your grade. No one wants water issues inside their house and many of those stem from issues outside the house that could potentially be fixed if you connect with the right professionals.

HARVEST YOUR RAINWATER:

Rain barrels are an excellent way to help with trouble spots at the downspouts.

If you can’t bury your downspouts, hook them up to a rain barrel or two. You can use them to water plants, wash cars, etc. A LOT of rainwater sheds off a house during a storm so think of all that free water you can recycle. The St. Charles Park District, the Geneva Natural Resource Committee, and the City of Batavia sell rain barrels at a great price so contact them if you need some.

Let us grow them into the garden of your dreams.

DON’T USE TOO MUCH MULCH:

Deep mulch in landscape beds can sometimes cause water to pool in the edges between the mulch and lawn. Make sure your mulch is flush with the lawn and that your edging “trenches” aren’t too deep or wide and the water will take a slower path vs. gushing through the moat around the landscape bed. This is another reason why I hate “volcano mulch”. Water just runs right off that volcano and the tree gets no benefit!

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 JULY 2019

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The Glass-Half-Full Guy:

2019 TRIP: MOUNTAIN BIKING THE CONTINENTAL DIVIDE WITH PETER STADALSKY

T

his summer I’m embarking on a trip I’ve been planning for more than a year and a half. Unsupported, I’m going to ride my mountain bike (no motor attached) from Banff, Canada down to the U.S./Mexico border. The route meanders along the spine of the entire Rocky Mountain range.

On my bike, I will cross over the divide 32 times, going through over 200,000 feet of elevation - that’s equivalent to climbing Mount Everest 7 times – the total route spanning approximately 3,000 miles. I will be carrying everything I need to eat, sleep, bathe and survive for the 55 days it will take to complete the route.

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TRAVEL JULY 2019

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Bring in Your Guests for a Unique Tasting Experience Come taste 60 different extra virgin olive oils and balsamic vinegars from all over the world. Unique Gift Baskets Available.

Homemade Skincare Products made with Olive Oil: Soaps ~ Lip Balms ~ Moisturizers

See Us for New Vinaigrette Recipes!

Special Tastings of our Products Every Weekend

Store Hours

Mon-Fri 10am-6pm ~ Thurs 10am-8pm ~ Sat 10am-5:30pm ~ Sun 11am-4pm

315 James St. • Geneva, IL • (630) 262-0210 • www.olivemillgeneva.com

WHAT’S THE ROUTE LIKE?

The Great Divide Mountain Bike Route is the world’s longest off-road cycling route, established by the Adventure Cycling Association. More than two-thirds of the route is off road, with conditions ranging from old railroad routes, dirt forest service roads, and even carrying the bike up the side of a mountain. There will be times when I have to push my bike miles through marshes, carry my bike overhead to cross waist deep rivers, and drag my bike over snow covered peaks.

Joining me along the route will be grizzly bears, rattlesnakes, mountain lions, and javelinas. Every night when I camp, I will have to hang my food from a tree so the wildlife I’m sharing the forest with doesn’t get a free meal. (I’m hoping they won’t eat me for dinner, too.)

WHERE TO SLEEP?

One of the best parts of this trip is all the camping. What’s so enticing is that I’ll be camping in places that most people never go will go; mainly because of the extreme remoteness. Some of the areas I’ll be riding are hundreds of miles between small towns. I’m bringing a oneperson tent, about the width of coffin.

Basically, I can post up camp wherever I like along most of the route because I’ll be travelling through national forest land. There are established campgrounds along the way as well. I’ve also contacted some other cyclists along the route through a website, who have offered me their homes to wash up and get a good night’s rest.

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

Serving Breakfast All Day Long!

WHAT TO EAT?

Bugs, lots of bugs. Well, not intentionally, but I’m sure some will get between my teeth on the downhill rides. In preparation for the trip, I already purchased the 55 days of food, compiled of freeze-dried meals and more granola bars and beef jerky than you’ve ever seen.

I’ve been packing away like a squirrel for a year. And as I couldn’t possibly carry all that food at once, I’ve boxed up food caches each containing seven days worth of food. Each cache will be sent to a post office or person’s home along the route that I will pick up. My awesome mother will be one of my support team members at home, adjusting food amounts on the fly and shipping out my next parcel.

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BON VOYAGE!

I don’t know entirely what to expect, other than what the guide books have told me. All I know for sure is that everything I will need to live will be strapped to my bike or my back for the next two months and it’s going to be one heck of an adventure! Stay tuned for highlights in upcoming columns!

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$0$69+03//3/5 98435/864 $/9 $6234$/ 26$98418/ To see this kitchen visit Havlicek Builder’s, Cooper Woods model in Geneva.

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