Our 6 Board-Certified Ophthalmologists, specialize in the medical and surgical treatment of many eye disorders including Cataract Surgery, Macular Degeneration, Glaucoma, Diabetes, Dry Eye treatment, Retina Disorders, Oculoplastics and more.
All kids 18 and younger receive 30% off their complete pair of glasses.* Includes one year warranty, impact and scratch resistant lenses. *Sale not applicable with vision insurance or any other sale offer. Expires 9/30/2026
As school draws near, family needs and health are top of mind.
It’s easy to get caught up in the details and forget to slow down, breathe and find your center, especially as a family unit—including our pets! In this month’s issue, we delve into some of the often-overlooked questions on the minds of our communities, local resources and more — all focused on your family and furbabies.
For those looking for a range of pet suppliers, doggie daycares and even special events that are furbaby-friendly, turn to page 27. Who doesn’t like a good deal? For a listing of affordable, low-cost activities for families, check out page 40.
When it comes to mental health, we have some ideas on where to start. Try slowing down the rest of your summer before school starts and embracing the benefits of having your beloved pets around (page 12). Giving back as a family to animal-focused organizations and others is such an amazing way to invest in the productive and positive while cutting down on screen time (page 20).
Looking to boost your wardrobe? You don’t have to compromise comfort to care for your pets in style. Check out some of our suggested essentials on page 29.
Before the school year fully commences, be sure to visit a local farm and get away from the city for a while. We’ve highlighted 4-H on page 24 and animal encounters the whole family will love on page 10.
Let the end of the season be a new beginning as we fade into fall.
As always, thank you for reading!
Kelley White, Editor
Bark in the Park is a special event with the Kane County Cougars coming up Aug. 11 at 6:30 p.m. — check out more on page 27! Photo courtesy of the Kane County Cougars
Next month: See what's on the menu around Kane County in September's food and drink edition!
MARKET MANAGER
Laura Shaw 630-709-4497 lshaw@shawmedia.com
EDITOR
Kelley White kwhite@shawmedia.com
DESIGNER
Julie Barichello 815-431-4072 jbarichello@shawmedia.com
SENIOR MARKETING SPECIALIST
Kane County Chronicle & Niche Publishing Tricia Walter 630-345-0066 twalter@shawmedia.com
CORRESPONDENTS
Yanira Garcia Andel, Jonathan Bilyk, Vicki Martinka Petersen, Melissa Rubalcaba Riske, Diane Krieger Spivak and Chris Walker
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 7717 S. Route 31, Crystal Lake, IL 60014
8 PRESERVING HABITATS
28 CCS TECHNOLOGY
St. Charles natural areas offer a haven for native plants, animals and insects
10 FARM FRESH FUN
Encounter animals at family farms and petting zoos
12 SUPPORTING FAMILY MENTAL HEALTH
The importance of pet companions and slowing down summer
14 KANE COUNTY’S K-9 HEROES
How canines are assisting law enforcement
18 WHERE CURIOSITY COMES TO LIFE
Local STEM programs boost kids’ skills beyond the classroom
20 GIVING BACK TOGETHER
Collaboration is the foundation of community
24 BEYOND THE BARN
The power of 4-H
26 PUTTING LIFE LESSONS TO THE TEST
A father’s thoughts on transitioning to adulthood
27 A PET LOVER’S GUIDE TO KANE COUNTY
A comprehensive listing, from doggie daycares to special events
This small business has your IT support covered
29 WHAT EVERY PET OWNER SHOULD OWN
Add these stylish essentials to your closet
30 THE NO-PROJECT-MANAGER VACATION
How busy families can reclaim their joy of travel
32 HOME INSTEAD
Live comfortably in a familiar environment
36 PATIO PERFECTION
Options for dining al fresco
38 IMMORTALIZING MAMA MALLARD
Fine artist Maria Ananieva preserves a slice of life in paint
40 FAMILY-FRIENDLY ADVENTURES
Affordable activities for kids and parents
42 A FINANCIAL RITE OF PASSAGE
My Advisor & Planner talks turning 65
Featuring suites with soft bedding, raised beds, soothing music, holiday meals, planned activities, and tons of affection!
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St. Charles natural areas offer a haven for native plants, animals and insects
By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske
Invasive plants occupying space and buckthorn growing unchecked are no match for the dedicated Ecological Restoration team at the St. Charles Park District.
Because even Mother Nature needs a hand decluttering spaces.
The St. Charles Park District’s Ecological Restoration team, with support from community volunteers, takes on the mission of helping the natural areas rebuild by supporting
the native plants, animal and insect populations, creating areas everyone can enjoy.
The St. Charles Park District manages more than 600 acres of natural areas in ecosystems that include prairies, wetlands, savannas and woodlands. Some locations are home to multiecosystems.
Ecological Restoration Supervisor Patrick Bochenek oversees the natural areas and the ongoing
restoration efforts for the St. Charles Park District. The restoration work continues year-round, from brush clearing in the winter to prescribed fire to clear out invasive plants. In summer, there’s a volunteer focus on seed collection, which entails harvesting the seeds from the native plants that will then be planted in other natural areas.
The park district invites volunteers from the community to assist with its natural areas. Every Saturday,
volunteers can help restore and maintain the natural areas, in collaboration with the park district staff. Volunteers are able to spend time in nature and be a part of a local park’s restoration, but there’s something more growing in the program that brings people of varying ages and backgrounds together.
“This year, one of our seasonal employees for the summer started as a volunteer,” Bochenek said.
He continued, “People connect with each other, and they connect with the project and can see how they made a difference.”
Some volunteers are looking for a way to give back and discover a true love for Mother Nature. That’s how Bochenek found his way to his current role. In his early 20s, he found himself working but not finding joy. He volunteered to help a few friends in Wisconsin who were working on restoration projects around Madison, Sauk City and Devils Lake and found a spark for the work.
“I connected with it,” Bochenek said.
So, in his mid-20s he returned to school earning a degree with an emphasis on ecological restoration.
Restoration work isn’t simple. Anyone who’s pulled weeds out of their garden bed knows that in a week, they will have to do it again. The park district’s restoration team eliminates invasive plants and uses herbicide to
help the process of safely removing them.
Some of the major invasive plants include honeysuckle, with its pink flowing flowers in the spring, and the persistent buckthorn, which can grow so large it appears to look like a tree.
One of the areas the park district is focusing on this year is Timber Trails Park, at the north end of 17th Street in St. Charles. This year the park district staff has cleared about two acres of invasive species as it helps to restore a prairie, Bochenek said. This natural area is home to about five acres of prairie, and the work this spring is helping to further increase that.
Restoration work is more than tackling invasive plant species; weather and changing climate conditions also pose challenges. There were some tense moments earlier this spring when the Fox River experienced flooding that spilled into natural areas including Ferson Creek Fen, Bochenek said.
“When we had the flooding from the Fox, that could have been catastrophic for the ecosystem,” Bochenek said.
“We did see heavy damage, but as a testament to the area, it was able to respond well to disturbance.”
Bochenek said the ongoing restoration work at Ferson Creek Fen, helping to cultivate native species and removing invasive plants, helped build the ecosystem that was able to rebound when the floodwaters receded.
VOLUNTEER IN ST. CHARLES PARK DISTRICT'S NATURAL AREAS
Volunteers can register via email at
By
100 S. Barnes Road, Aurora
Hear the cluck of chickens, get up close with some goats and take a break from the daily to-dos and spend some time on a farm with these wonderful local attractions. They're just a short drive away, whether you're visiting a small zoo, exploring a farm or making time for goat yoga with friends. Most locations are open year-round, with special hours during the fall and winter. See websites for updates and special events.
Hours through Aug. 16 include 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
Monday through Friday. 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. After Sept. 17 open Friday through Sunday only. Admission is $11 for ages 1 and older; free for infants and discounted admission for ages 65 and older and for Fox Valley Park District residents.
Visitors can get up close at the Discovery Animal Barn with the resident animals and the location offers play areas and attractions including a train that travels around the grounds. There is a fee for the train and some of the other attractions.
8s890 Mighell Road, Sugar Grove www.blueskyfarmgoatyoga.com
Open for classes; private events; see website for times and prices
Reach a new state of zen with its Goat Yoga classes for adults and children who are ages 10 and older. Stretching and strengthening through yoga and baby goat cuddles have proven good for the mind and body. Core muscles will be working overtime with the laughs as well.
1356 N. Gary Ave., Wheaton www.cosleyzoo.org
Open daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Oct. 31; fall hours begin Nov. 1. Admission is $12 for ages 12 and older; free for children 11 and younger.
This small zoo is a perfect spot for young children to explore and learn about domestic animals such as pigs and chickens or local wildlife such as coyotes. Children can also see llamas, and it’s a great spot for tots to walk around with space for a snack or picnic as well.
207 Grand Blvd., Elgin www.elginil.gov/1811/Lords-Park-Zoo
Open daily through Aug. 16; free admission. Hours are 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday and 12 to 4 p.m. on the weekends.
The zoo’s outdoor exhibit is home to bison, elk and white-tailed deer. During the summer months, the zoo brings in animals from local farms for visitors to see. Please note: it is not a petting zoo.
1000 Ray Moses Drive, Aurora zoo.aurora.il.us
Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Thursday to Tuesday through Sept. 30; open 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday through Tuesday Oct. 1 to May 31; free admission
This small zoo is the perfect size for young visitors to see alpacas, American beaver, elk and Highland cattle as well as a reptile house. There are farm animals and roaming tortoises in the yard next to the reptile house.
5N726 Crane Road, St. Charles www.primrosefarm.org
Open daily sunrise to sunset; free admission
Visit the goats, watch the chickens and greet the baby calves at this small working farm of the St. Charles Park District, which hosts programs on-site for all ages. The site is home to beautiful trails around the farm, offering visitors a small rural oasis in a suburban landscape. The Farm Stand with Elder Oaks Farms is open from 3 to 7 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays, and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays during the summer.
1180 N. Randall Road, West Dundee dtpd.org/randall-oaks-zoo
Open daily 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. through Nov. 1; winter hours begin Nov. 2 and last through March. Admission is $7 per person; free for children ages 1 and younger
Along with visiting the zoo and its animal residents, there are scheduled activities throughout the day, from listening to a zookeeper chat and watching training demonstrations to participating in a petting zoo feeding where, for an additional $2, participants can purchase a cup of feed.
1N292 Brundige Road, Elburn www.rusticroadfarm.com
Summer Hours 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday and Friday and 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday
The organic farm welcomes visitors to take a little escape while they shop at the on-site market. Plan time to hang out with the resident baby goats while shopping for
Animal companionship and relaxing activities can soothe the mind
By Vicki Martinka Petersen
For many families, pets are more than companions. They’re a steady source of comfort, connection and emotional support.
“For kids who feel things intensely or struggle with transitions, a pet’s calm presence can act like a built-in co-regulator, helping their bodies settle when emotions run high,” says Stephanie Lilly, licensed therapist and vice president of operations at Family Counseling Service in Aurora.
When children form a secure attachment to an animal, they often experience greater emotional stability, improved coping skills and a stronger sense of safety. Pets also offer a consistent, nonjudgmental presence, which can be especially meaningful for kids who struggle with anxiety, social stress or big emotions.
“As my 10-year-old son put it, ‘Pets help my family by just being there for me when no one is around, and they are nice and care about me when I am sad or sick,’’’ says Lilly. “His words capture what many families feel – pets show up with a kind of steady, unconditional support that’s hard to replicate.”
Beyond stress relief, pets offer a wide range of emotional benefits such as reducing feelings of loneliness and increasing a sense of connection. For example, taking their dogs for a walk supports social well-being as people become more engaged with neighbors and their community.
Pets offer families a chance to slow down and bond over the simple routines of feeding, walking and cuddling with a pet. Pet ownership can also help families improve their problem-solving skills as they decide whose turn it is to walk the dog or feed a pet. These conversations help kids practice negotiation, compromise and responsibility in a low-stakes way.
When choosing a pet, Lilly says it’s important to consider a child’s sensory needs, temperament and energy level. Dogs offer strong emotional benefits and structure, which can be helpful for kids with ADHD or anxiety, but they require significant time and consistency.
Small mammals like guinea pigs are gentle and predictable, making them a good fit for children who prefer quieter interactions. Cats offer soothing companionship without the intensity of a high-energy dog, while fish provide calming visual input shown to reduce anxiety.
“Pets aren’t a cure for mental health challenges, but when the match is right, they can be powerful partners in helping families feel calmer, more connected and more supported,” says Lilly.
The long, lazy days of summer can easily become a blur when schedules become overpacked with activities. Taking time to slow down over the summer can help you boost your mood and lower your risk of burnout.
Here are some ways to add mindfulness to your summer routine now and carry on through the fall.
Head over to your local library for ways to flex your literary muscles, such as the popular 1,000 Book Before Kindergarten challenge for younger readers. The Aurora Library’s new Expand Your Shelf challenge encourages readers to select books from 12 categories, including books set in another country, graphic novels and books turned into a movie or TV show. Once you’ve read a book from each category, you can turn in your reading log for a prize.
A fun way to take a break from the screens is to hit one of the many trails at local park districts and the Forest Preserve District of Kane County. The Fox River Bluff West Forest Preserve in St. Charles has off-leash dog areas where owners are welcome to walk or run with up to three dogs at a time. The 67acre preserve also features hiking and biking trails as well as fishing spots.
Who says pool time is only for weekends? On a weeknight, consider breaking up your routine by taking a splash between work and dinner. Sunset Pool in Geneva is open until 8 p.m. through Aug. 19, then open many nights until 7 p.m. during the postseason. Or stop by Otter Cove in St. Charles for their twilight swim time, offered daily at either 5 or 5:30 p.m.
Another fun way to break up the routine is by taking your meal outside. There’s no shortage of eating establishments with patios to dine al fresco. You can enjoy your meal with a side of entertainment when bands perform in the gazebo located in the center of the courtyard at Two Brothers Roundhouse in Aurora. The five-tiered beer garden at The Sidecar Supper Club & Beer Garden in Batavia comes with views of the Fox River and plenty of space for dogs to relax during your meal.
After a busy week, slowing down before a busy weekend can help you and your family reset. In the summer and fall, consider strolling through a farmers market. The St. Charles Farmers Market is on Friday mornings through October. On Sundays through November, stop by the Geneva French Market for fresh produce, baked goods and unique gifts. Markets to check out on Saturday mornings include the Aurora Farmers Market through Oct. 3 and the Batavia Farmers Market through Oct. 17.
Dogs assist sheriff's deputies with a variety of duties in the field
By Chris Walker • Photos by Sandy Bressner
Maggie is a bloodhound on the Kane County Sheriff's Office K-9 team. She is shown here with Deputy Eden Latham in April 2024.
Aldo, Amika, Bear, Bo, Casper, Echo, Maggie, Mika, Preacher, Rane, Remi, Rizzo, Spark, Suki, Thor and Udo.
Trained in special areas such as narcotics detection, bomb detection and tracking and apprehending suspects, these dogs that make up the K-9 team of the Kane County’s Sheriff’s Office put their lives on the line every day working alongside their human officers. These highly skilled deputies play a critical role in protecting their communities.
“We look at hundreds of dogs each year to see which ones will make it in the program, because not all are going to make it,” says Kane County K-9 Academy Instructor Sergeant Nick Wolf. “There’s a lot that goes into the selection and if they have the right genetics. We do a lot of tests. These are all working dogs. They’re generally performance-based dogs and not recommended as house-type dogs so they’re definitely working dogs with them being the kind of breed that’s predisposed for this kind of work.”
Most K-9 units, including the one in Kane County, consist of a mix of German shepherds, Belgian malinois, Dutch shepherds, Labrador retrievers and bloodhounds.
The Kane County Sheriff's Police K-9 Academy, located at the Kane County Sheriff’s Office in St. Charles, offers intensive K-9 handler and dog training programs. The comprehensive curriculum thoroughly prepares police dogs like Aldo to Udo as well as their handlers for law enforcement.
According to the National Police Dog Foundation, the use of dogs to assist in police duties is anything but new, dating back to the Middle Ages. The earliest K-9 training facility is more recent, although its start in Ghent, Belgium, in 1899 was 65 years before Underdog debuted in 1964. As for the origin of Kane County’s K-9 unit, it’s at least been 40, 50-plus years.
“I tried to look it up and someone said it was 1969, but I don’t know,” Wolf says. “But that would be pretty consistent from what I’ve heard. I’ve been here since 2002 and I’ve worked with six different dogs in all disciplines.”
Patrol and detection are the two common classifications for police K-9s.
1K
1.7K
3.5K
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Patrol dogs are used to provide patrol duties, such as suspect apprehension, area or building clearance, security in sensitive or controlled areas and officer protection. Detection dogs are used to find either narcotics or explosives.
Dogs used in law enforcement are trained to be single-purpose or dual-purpose K-9s.
Those that are single purpose are used primarily for either patrol or detection duties. In addition, some single-purpose K-9s are used only for tracking, locating lost persons or cadaver detection. Dual-purpose dogs are trained to combine the aforementioned duties in one K-9 unit.
There are opportunities to learn more about the K-9 team by filling out a Request for K-9 Presentation Form online and scheduling a visit.
“We can come out and talk to schools and at other community events to raise awareness about what we do,” Wolf says. “It’s for the education component of it.”
In addition to the 16 K-9s currently working in Kane County, there are an estimated 50,000 active police K-9s working across the United States today.
By Diane Krieger Spivak
Looking for some educational, enriching programs for your kids outside the classroom?
While summer enrichment arts, nature and STEM camps are over, you can still find fun, educational offerings at local park districts, organizations, schools, colleges and community centers, for toddlers through teens.
STEM — science, technology, engineering and math — encompasses topics that are actually fun and exciting, as well as educational. There are also STEAM programs, which include an art focus.
SciTech Fox Valley offers handson mobile STEMshops for kids to experiment and create. The STEMshops are for children from birth through preschool, elementary, upper grades and homeschooled children. SciTech Fox Valley also includes programming for family events and summer camps.
Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy, in Aurora, while a residential school, also offers STEM learning through virtual means for middle school and high school enrichment programs connecting students to realworld applications “fostering curiosity, confidence, and a love for discovery.”
US Sports Camps provides summer and year-round camps for youth athletes across the United States, including Kane County, focusing on skill development, confidence-building, and fun in a safe, supervised environment. Each
sport program is led by experienced coaches who emphasize both athletic and personal growth. Sports include soccer, basketball, tennis, golf, football, volleyball, swimming, water polo, lacrosse, softball, baseball and running.
The University of Illinois Extension offers Kane County 4-H clubs and outdoor skills, letting kids explore agriculture, STEM and leadership.
Check out Abrakadoodle for standardsbased art classes and camps throughout Greater Kane County. In Batavia, outreach programs for youth can be found at Water Street Studios.
For kids interested in nature and the environment, the Forest Preserve District of Kane County provides outdoor activities and hands-on environmental education curricula like "Mighty Acorns" for third- through fifth-grade students, Story Time at Creek Bend Nature Center for infants through age 5; Little Saplings, for ages 3 to 5; and Twigs to trees for children ages kindergarten through second grade. Programs include stories, nature hikes, songs, games, or crafts and naturebased play.
The Kane County Health Department’s Teen Center offers youth ages 7 to 17 free recreational and educational programs, both after school and in the summer.
The Batavia Park District offers several programs. The New Adventures PlayLab: A half-day enrichment program for kids ages 3 to 5, featuring a STEAM-
based curriculum focused on hands-on art, science, music, and social-emotional growth. Youth Variety & STEAM classes, for ages 6 to 17, covers coding, 3-D printing, LEGO robotics, and digital game design. Performing Arts Theatre programs include
Acting for Tots, Musical Theatre, and improv for various age groups.
Elgin Community College offers a wide variety of enrichment classes for ages 5 to 17, including coding club, drama,
art, safety, self-defense and “Build It” challenges, and Smart Money for Young Teens. The Centre of Elgin recreation center provides early childhood and K-6 programs in STEM, cooking, music, art and sensory play. For more youth enrichment programs, check local community centers and city and village park districts near you. Many local schools offer after-school enrichment programs, as well.
AUGUST 29TH & 30TH 10AM - 5PM
By
Volunteering together not only helps families stay connected to one another but also to their communities. From packing meals to helping at events, here are some ways families can bond while making a difference close to home.
On Wednesday mornings in the summer and fall, families can help the forest preserve district’s staff collect plant seeds. The seeds will be used to reestablish native plant communities in the Kane County forest preserves. Or stop by during one of the district’s volunteer Restoration Workdays to lend a hand in the fight against invasive species. Sessions are held throughout Kane County from now through September. Learn more about both events at www. kaneforest.com/volunteer-events.
Located in St. Charles, Lazarus House is committed to neighbors helping neighbors by providing safe shelter, food and services to those in need of help in Kane County. Families are welcome to volunteer for special projects, such as hosting game nights, organizing craft activities, setting up a nacho bar or helping clean the house. Contact the volunteer coordinator at volunteer@lazarushouse.net or call 630-587-2144 to schedule an activity.
Kids also are invited to help raise money for Lazarus
House through their own activities such as donating money earned at a lemonade stand or collecting gifts for the homeless at a birthday party. To get started, visit www.lazarushouse.net/just-for-kids.
Families with children ages 5 and older can work together as a team to hand-pack nutritious MannaPack meals at Feed My Starving Children in Aurora. The process involves scooping and measuring dried vegetables, soy, rice and a vitamin-rich flavoring powder into bags. To sign up for a shift, visit www. fmsc.org/get-involved/volunteer then select the Aurora location for available times.
There are many ways volunteers can use their time and talents to help the Batavia United Way. Families can help serve others during the Community Dinner Table on Sunday, Aug. 30. Or help support the runners during the annual Bat Race on Saturday, Oct. 24.
Other volunteer opportunities include raking leaves for seniors, veterans and people with physical disabilities; preparing meals for guests at Lazarus House; and shoveling snow to help nearby neighbors with limited mobility. To sign up for these and other events, visit www.bataviaunitedway.org/volunteer-forbatavia-united-way.
Families who love animals often look for ways to turn that passion into something meaningful. Community volunteering is one of the most rewarding ways to do so. While many places seek older teens and adults to help care for animals, there are plenty of ways even younger animal lovers can get involved.
Teen and adult volunteers are key to keeping Primrose Farm in St. Charles humming. From animal chores and tractor maintenance to gardening, there’s something for everyone to do. In addition to regular volunteers, the farm also needs help with special events such as parking, activity station staffing and event setup and teardown.
Volunteers are especially needed weekdays between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m. Teen volunteers must be at least 16 and are accepted on a case-by-case basis. To sign up as a regular or special event volunteer, call 630-513-4370.
At Anderson Humane in South Elgin, volunteers age 16 and older support shelter animals while making a positive impact in the community. Sign up to care for dogs, cats or wildlife. For animal care roles, volunteers must be available for at least six months to ensure consistency and the best care for animals. Volunteers also can help
foster animals and do general tasks around the shelter.
Not old enough to help at the shelter? There are plenty of ways to support animals right from the comfort of your home, such as collecting newspapers to line kennels, organizing a collection drive in your neighborhood and creating nature boxes for the animals to explore.
To learn more or sign up to volunteer, visit www. ahconnects.org/volunteer.
Care tasks at Aurora Animal Care & Control are bucketed into different volunteer programs. The Dog Paw and Meow Manor programs, for instance, focus on socialization, exercise and enrichment for animals at the shelter. For those with a background in animal grooming, the Glamour Paws program volunteers keep animals looking their best with bathing, brushing and clipping nails.
Volunteers must be at least 18 years of age.
Applicants ages 16 and 17 may be accepted if accompanied by a parent or guardian who is an approved volunteer. Volunteer opportunities are available from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Email animalvolunteer@aurora.il.us for more information.
Rover Rescue in Aurora offers many ways for people to get involved, including handling dogs at adoption events and transporting dogs to and from vet appointments. Volunteers also can help sort donations, organize displays and assist customers during the Barn Sale. In addition, the shelter can always use items to support the animals such as dog food, dog treats, towels and laundry detergent.
Want to take on a bigger role? Consider becoming a foster home for a dog in need. Foster parents provide safe and loving environments for a foster dog until it finds a forever home.
For more information about volunteering or fostering, call 630-897-7454.
(weather & conditions permitting)
Dogs and their owners can choose from THREE places in town to run, play and socialize with others. Dogs must be supervised at all times, be current on all vaccinations, and have current rabies tags worn and visible. Maximum two dogs per person allowed. Dog owners visiting the park are asked to clean up after their pets, fill in any holes dug, and not bring food into the park. Dogs must be on a leash while in the parking lot.
For more info: stcparks.org/dog-parks
East Side Sports Complex
Access via parking lot off Commerce Drive
Open Dawn-Dusk
• 0.84 acre dog park
• access to the site’s pond
• 5-foot chain link fence (not around pond)
• interactive play features with mulch surface
• separate area specifically for smaller dogs
River Bend
Community Park
Courier & Geneva Avenues
Open Dawn-Dusk
• 3/4 acre dog park
• doggy water fountain
• double-gated security entrance
James O. Breen
Community Park
Campton Hills & Peck Roads
Lighted Facility
Open Dawn-10pm
• 2.56 acres fenced dog park
• doggy water fountain
• double-gated security entrance
• dog-friendly equipment
• activity stations
By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske
For the ultimate hands-on science-based learning families continue to turn to their local 4-H programs where youth can experience a range of opportunities from raising domestic animals to learning how to build and use an amateur radio as they develop leadership skills too.
Head, heart, hands and health are the four Hs, and today there are more than 15 4-H community clubs throughout Kane County. The national organization has roots that extend more than 120 years and continues to evolve offering 6 million young people some of the most innovative opportunities.
Jeremy Montgomery is a former parent volunteer with 4-H who has returned to the organization to lead the Teen Science Ambassador Club for youth in Kane, Kendall and DuPage counties. His focus is amateur radio science, having discovered how the technology and skills used in amateur radios is part of a skill set that can take students into some of the largest growing fields in the future, including drone operations and global communications.
“This is a skill set we need right now,” Montgomery said. He continued, “People think amateur radio is a ‘grandpa hobby’ used to talk to people around the world. The knowledge of amateur radio is the foundation for technology today.”
Amateur radio technology and knowledge can be applied in drone operations, cybersecurity, radio communications and even capturing and understanding space operations and astronomy, Montgomery said.
In his career in public safety, Montgomery used radios and drone operations, but it was after his father-in-law shared an amateur radio that he began to develop a new appreciation and interest for the science. After years of substitute teaching, Montgomery went back to class for himself to further his knowledge.
“I’ve got my fingers on the pulse of the industry,” Montgomery said. Montgomery is excited to bring his knowledge and experience to the next generation. In 2025 he launched his first program with 4-H Teen Science Ambassadors and watched the students take handson learning and see how it engaged their interests. Montgomery is excited to start the 2026 session this fall, and he’s adding a new assignment for his students who will be given a handheld radio for hands-on practice as they learn how to program the radio and work to complete their FCC Technician license.
“It’s an operational skill set and it’s fun in the process,” Montgomery said.
For Montgomery, opening the door to understanding amateur radio sciences can open many more doors, as the skill set can extend in multiple directions, from engineering to public safety and to global communications. Amateur radio is more than a tinkering hobby, as Montgomery calls it the “Maker Space” where experimentation can lead to new technology and efficiency.
“We are all part of a larger DIY [Do It Yourself] Maker Space,” he added.
The community club meets a few hours a month to work on their capstone project and additionally devote a few hours each month to work on leadership skills, such as public speaking and making a presentation. Montgomery sees the leadership skills as just as vital as the capstone work. He wants his students to learn and have the confidence to teach others.
In Illinois, 4-H falls under the University of Illinois Extension programming and through the club, students can access evidencebased university research on a wide variety of projects, explained Erin Morse, Kane County 4-H Youth Development program coordinator. Youth can explore animal science, career and leadership development, civic engagement, creative and cultural arts, environmental sciences, gardening and agriculture, and healthy living as well as STEM.
Morse said the community clubs could benefit from more volunteers, like Montgomery, who can share their time and experience to work with the youth. Other community club leaders have included retired teachers and individuals with a passion for the arts, sciences and education, she said. Additionally, those with Spanish-speaking skills can be a great asset and there’s always a need for judges to review the annual capstone projects during the culminating 4-H Show season each summer, Morse said.
Even in some of the suburban locations, 4-H community clubs find great ways to connect to agriculture-based skills, which are only a part of what 4-H offers. Morse said through a partnership with the St. Charles Park District members were able to complete a livestock project at Primrose Farm, the park district’s working farm.
With students engaged in sciences and arts, from beekeeping, and environmental studies to photography and sewing, there is no limit to students’ interest and growth in 4-H, Morse said.
“There’s a lot of possibilities and we love sharing our resources too,” Morse said.
Here's a fun thought teaser.
As ever, "fun" is in the eye of the beholder. But, it will certainly be thought-provoking.
It goes like this: Right now, off the top of your head, tell us your favorite school exam of all time. Now, I'm not asking you for your favorite course of study. Or even your favorite class. Rather, which test, in which class, in which school, was your favorite, ever?
Then tell us: Why that one?
Just as the definition of "fun" and whether this particular conversation starter meets it depends entirely on your perspective, so, too, will the reasoning behind your answer depend entirely on your experiences.
For some of you, the answer will be: The last one, because you never had to take another. For others, it may be that final exam you aced. Or the test where your performance proved something to yourself or someone else whose opinion mattered.
For me, the answer is easy, but still a close call.
It was a chemistry midterm, way back in my sophomore year of college. And when I say "way back," I mean it. We're talking about the Bronze Age, friends. (Not the Stone Age. It was the 1990s.)
I was a freshly minted 19-year-old, confused on what my major should be, and acting on some useful advice from my elders to "try out lots of different classes." So, there I was in Chemistry 121, willfully fulfilling a science prerequisite to ultimately land a degree, while keeping my options and my eyes open.
My freshman year had been a time of adjustment, as I moved out of high school and started to adjust to the disorienting seasickness that comes with the early years of "adulting," a term of art that would not be coined for at least 15 years. (What's that? You see a dinosaur? Where?)
But my grades hadn't suffered, mostly because I've always been a good student, without trying too hard. Well, "good student" may be a stretch. My grades were great, and my test scores were strong. But as a student? Let's say, no one should copy my study habits. Ever.
To this day, I can still hear a particular aunt of mine in her light German accent, telling me: "Jonathan, those grades are good. But you could do so much better if you would just try harder."
I chuckled. But mostly because I knew she was right. Back to the Chem midterm. I walked in the lab, not knowing what to expect. I had done the reading and prepped as much as possible. But there on the counter in front of me were some exam sheets and a group of bottles containing clear liquid, each labeled only by number.
As it turns out, the bulk of the test involved correctly identifying what was in each bottle.
As you may have surmised, this was no guessing game. Rather, it involved a 90-minute rush of deduction and many chemical reactions, forcing us to utilize all of the knowledge we had hopefully absorbed during the preceding two months or so.
And it was a blast. (Not literally, though. Such a literal outcome would be less than apt for a successful chemistry exam.)
Honestly, I can recall only a handful of other tests from high school or college, at least in such a vivid fashion. Perhaps your experiences differ from mine.
But that test in particular sprang to mind this summer as my wife and I prepare for our newest experiment: Parenting an adult child.
This summer, my oldest kiddo turns 18. We are both very proud of the person she has become and is becoming: Poised, confident (for the most part), creative, perceptive, caring and adventurous.
In many ways, we can't wait to see where the winds of her life will carry her when she truly spreads her wings, takes the leap, grabs that thermal uplift and soars.
But the moment has also brought with it an existential dread, akin to the feeling of walking into that chemistry lab and seeing the papers next to those mysterious bottles.
Just as that test, the coming years will come with so many unknowns. For her, yes. But also for us.
I can't stop wondering: What lessons have we truly taught her over these years? What has she learned from us that maybe she should not have? How will she react to those inevitable life tests she will need to face on her own? You know: The tests mom and dad can only help her think through, if she lets us.
And will she let us? Should she?
From here, the answers remain as murky as those brown bottles of clear liquid on the counter in the lab. And we know the truth will only be revealed when the variables are introduced and the reactions start.
We know some of those lessons will have been developed positively, through years of intentional reinforcement. Lessons like: "Always say 'please' and 'thank you.'" "Eat fruits and vegetables." "Avoid office politics." "Don't burn bridges." And "Foster a lifelong love of learning."
Others will have been developed negatively. As in: "Don't shout at other drivers, no matter how stupid they are." "Don't eat ice cream or cookies after bedtime." And "Don't emulate your old man's study habits."
Yet we can only hope she'll remember the correct lessons, no matter how they were acquired, as she walks out into the world from the lab of early human development we call "The Nest."
And hopefully, along the way, she has a blast.
In the good sense. Not as in a chemistry midterm gone awry.
n 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.)
Check out these animal-friendly destinations and services
Compiled by Chris Walker
Many of these locations also offer grooming services and more.
• All Pets Wellness Centers: 1975 Melissa Ln., Aurora
• Boomer’s Beach Doggy Daycare & Lodging: 321 Stevens St., Suite Y, Geneva
• DayWatch: 1822 Mill St., Batavia
• DePAW Pet Resort: 100 S. Glengarry Dr., Geneva
• Dogtopia of Geneva: 2423 Fargo Blvd., Geneva
• Fydoland: 1311 E. Main St., St. Charles
• Hounds Town Aurora: 2011 W. Galena Blvd., Aurora
• It’s Raining Cats & Dogs Luxury Pet Resort: 4S020 Harter Rd., Sugar Grove
• Just Like Home 4 Paws: 3052 Weber Dr., Suite 104, Aurora
• Kountry Pet Resort & Training Center: 12N911 U.S. Hwy. 20, Hampshire
• Out ’N About Dog Daycare & Boarding: 820 Stover Dr., Suite A, Elburn
• Pawns In Time Pet Resort: 1891 E. Fabyan Pkwy., West Chicago
• Pet Place: 2051 Mayfield Dr., Montgomery
• Ruffner’s Luxury Pet Boarding & Doggie Daycare: 1880 Dean St., St. Charles
• Tanglewood Kennels LLC: 43W030 Empire Rd., St. Charles
• Alter Brewing + Kitchen: 12 S. First St., St. Charles
• Old Republic Kitchen + Bar: 155 S. Randall Rd., Elgin
• Preservation: 513 S. Third St., Geneva
• Two Brothers Roundhouse: 205 N. Broadway, Aurora
• West Main Community and Bark Park: 40W101 W. Main St., Batavia
• James O. Breen Community Park: Campton Hills Rd., and Peck Rd., St. Charles
• South Elgin Dog Park at County Park: 225 S. Water St., South Elgin
• East Side Sports Complex: 3565 Legacy Blvd., St. Charles
• Gregory Island: Indian Trail, just west of Route 25, Aurora
• Jack Cook: 4600 Plank Rd., Elgin
• Lincoln Park: S. Russell Ave., Aurora
• Phillips Park: 1000 Moses Dr., Aurora
• River Bend Community Park: 6N517 Geneva Ave., St. Charles
• Stuart Sports Complex: 39W546 Baseline Rd., Sugar Grove
The Kane County Forest Preserve offers a handful of area where man’s best friend can enjoy the freedom of playing off-leash. All dogs are required to have current vaccinations for rabies, distemper and parvovirus and must remain with owners at all times when visiting any of these off-leash dog areas.
• Aurora West: 6S252 Hankes Rd., Aurora
• Fox River Bluff (West): 5N753 IL Route 31, St. Charles
• Schweitzer Woods: 16N690 Sleepy Hollow Rd., West Dundee
• All Star Pet Grooming: 1820 Wallace Ave., Suite 113, St. Charles
• Amy’s Wild Hairs: 820 Stover Dr., Elburn
• Benji’s Barking Lot: 18 N. Prairie St., Batavia
• Celebrity Pet Grooming: 91 Sugar Ln., Sugar Grove
• The Country Clipper: 47W993 Main St., Elburn
• Dirty Pawz: 760 Heartland Dr., Sugar Grove
• Doggie Divine Pet Salon: 2041 Lincoln Hwy., St. Charles
• Hairy Beast Dog Pawlour: 215 W. Galena Blvd., Suite 4, Aurora
• Just For Paws: 40W089 IL-64, Suite A, Campton Hills
• K9-Kuts: 2664 E. Main St., St. Charles
• Mr. Scott’s Dog Spa & Resort: 26 N. Lincolnway St., North Aurora
• Poochie Love Dog Spa: 740 Butterfield Rd., North Aurora
• Rarity’s Rarities (mobile): Call 630-849-0342
• Woof Wash: 137 S. Batavia Ave., Batavia
• Critters Pet Shop of South Elgin: 582 Randall Rd., South Elgin
• Fat Sam’s for Pets: 102 First St., Batavia
• Healthy Pet Store Aurora: 2620 N. Farnsworth Ave., Aurora
• Pug & Hound Pet Apothecary: 415 W. State St., Suite 101, Geneva
• Sugar Grove Pet Supply: 160 E. Galena Blvd., Suite B, Sugar Grove
• Wet Nose: 202 Commons Dr., Geneva
Dogs must be kept on a leash no longer than 10 feet.
• Anderson Woods: 04N970 Illinois Route 25, St. Charles
• Arlene Shoemaker: 1400 Felten Rd., Aurora
• Barnes: 39 Prairie St., Aurora
• Binnie: 38W040 Binnie Rd., West Dundee
• Blackberry Maples: 43W231 Main St., Elburn
• Bliss Woods: 5S660 Bliss Rd., Sugar Grove
• Bowes Creek Woods: 9N420 Crawford Rd., Elgin
• Brunner Family: 18N681 Illinois 31, Dundee
• Buffalo Park: 19N475 Illinois 31, Algonquin
• Burnidge: 14N035 Coombs Rd., Elgin
• Campton: 4N379 Town Hall Rd., St. Charles
• Culver: 6S496 Hankes Rd., Sugar Grove
• Dick Young: 39W115 Main St., Batavia
• Elburn: 45W061 Illinois Route 38, Elburn
• Fabyan: 1925 S. Batavia Ave., Geneva
• Fitchie Creek: 39W933 Russell Rd., Elgin
• Fox River Bluff (East): 5N860 Weber Dr., St. Charles
• Glenwood Park: 1644 S. River St., Batavia
• Grunwald Farms: 2S035 S. Lorang Rd., Elburn
• Hannaford Woods/Nickels Farm: 5S002 Merrill Rd., Sugar Grove
• Hoscheit Woods: 6N327 Illinois Route 25, St. Charles
• Johnson’s Mound: 41W600 Hughes Rd., Elburn
• Jon J. Duerr: 35W003 Route 31, South Elgin
• Kenyon Farm: 8N700 Barry Rd., South Elgin
• Lake Run: 40W255 Tanner Rd., North Aurora
• LeRoy Oakes: 37W700 Dean St., St. Charles
• Les Arends: 2S731 Route 31, Batavia
• Lone Grove: 49W055 Perry Rd., Maple Park
• McLean Fen: 7N710 McLean Blvd., South Elgin
• Mill Creek: 0S650 Wenmoth Rd., Batavia
• Oakhurst: 1680 Fifth Ave., Aurora
• Otter Creek: 37W870 Hopps Rd., Elgin
• Paul Wolff Campground: 38W235 Big Timber Rd., Elgin
• Schweitzer Woods: 16N690 Sleepy Hollow Rd., West Dundee
• Tekakwitha Woods: 35W076 Villa Marie Rd., St. Charles Tyler Creek: 401 Davis Rd., Elgin
Bark in the Park at Kane County Cougars: Bring your pup(s) to sit in the lawn area and take in the Aug. 11 Cougars game at 6:30 p.m. in Geneva. Scott Smith’s All Animal Expo at Kane County Fairgrounds: Whether you simply want to see some cool animals or are searching for the perfect pet accessory, good or enclosure, you’ll find it here on Aug. 8, 23, Sept. 12, 27, Oct. 17, Nov. 14, 29, Dec. 12, 20.
By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske | Photo provided by CCS Technology
From network setup to ensuring secure online transactions, the team at CCS Technology provides companies with information technology support.
Their motto is, “Let us support your IT so you can focus on your business.”
“We become the outsourced IT department for smaller businesses,” explained partner and Chief Executive Officer Tony Hotko, who co-founded the company with Joe Reiplinger in 2014.
In 2014, the company had six employees; today, it boasts 27 team members responding to client needs, from resolving issues and onboarding staff to developing customized solutions for businesses.
“We don’t want to just fix issues. We want to help you leverage technology to be more competitive,” Hotko said.
In a crowded field of IT experts, the team at CCS Technology strives to stand out, from fast response times to collaborating with clients to finding innovative solutions while managing day-to-day tasks with ease.
“We need to make sure our clients value IT and also see us as a partner,” Hotko said. “It’s about understanding and building that relationship with mutual respect for each other.”
With offices in Geneva and Rolling Meadows, CCS Technology remains on the cutting edge of IT solutions, said Chris Higgins, CCS Technology solutions architect.
“CCS continues to adapt and change over time to meet the customers’ needs,” Higgins said. “We’re constantly evolving and training and keeping up with changes.”
As a managed service provider, CCS Technology works with clients across a number of businesses, from real estate to service-based companies, as well as manufacturing and distribution companies and some smaller, independent health professionals.
On the belief that there’s always room for improvement, the team at CCS Technology maintains data on its ability to respond swiftly to client needs. For example, Hotko said on average, his team can respond to client help tickets in under 10 minutes, and the goal is to provide same-day resolutions as much as possible. But it’s more than speed — the team also maintains a 99.7% customer satisfaction.
These statistics and client reviews are discussed in the company’s biweekly meetings where they celebrate success and find solutions to any concerns.
“People give us their feedback because they know we are reactive, that’s a big part of it,” Hotko said.
One of the features that has helped CCS Technology build on its legacy is its ability to adapt to client needs and serve to educate, whether it is helping to explain security concerns or implementing new solutions, such as using artificial intelligence.
Artificial intelligence, or AI, can be an asset for small businesses, whether it's utilizing a digital bot on the website or helping to summarize information, but Hotko cautions clients without fully understanding its use, companies may be opening themselves to data and security breaches. The team at CCS Technology is able to educate clients and help them find ways to best utilize AI in their business while retaining the highest level of cyber security.
“We pride ourselves on going above and beyond with customer service,” Hotko said.
CCS Technology sees communication as an essential element to its success. Communication can include a follow-up phone call with a client on a service ticket or attending biweekly online meetings with the client’s team to better understand their current challenges or discuss their initiatives and how IT can support those initiatives and streamline business operations.
“We also have software developers on staff that can develop software and/or integrations that can make work more efficient for our clients,” Reiplinger said.
By Yanira Garcia Andel
Colors like olive, navy or rich earth tones naturally camouflage pet hair
Cross-body bags leave hands free for leashes
Invest in footwear that is stylish and comfortable
Look for performance fabrics such as elevated knits, stretch cottons and wrinkeresistant blends.
Anyone who shares their home with a dog or cat knows getting dressed is often only half the battle. The other half?
Keeping your outfit looking fresh after a morning walk, a cuddle on the couch, or an enthusiastic greeting at the front door.
The good news is that dressing for life with pets doesn't mean sacrificing style. With a few thoughtful wardrobe choices, you can look polished while embracing all the joy — and occasional mess — that comes with your furry companions.
Start with performance fabrics. Today's elevated knits, stretch cottons and wrinkle-resistant blends are designed to move with you while standing up to pet hair, muddy paw prints and frequent washing. Look for breathable materials that maintain their shape and color after multiple trips through the laundry.
Footwear is another smart investment. Whether you're heading to the dog park, cheering from the sidelines at a soccer game or running errands with the family, comfortable shoes are essential. Stylish leather sneakers, waterproof ankle boots or supportive slip-ons can take you from neighborhood walks to lunch with friends without missing a beat.
Outerwear deserves extra consideration, especially in the Midwest, where the weather can change by the hour. A lightweight quilted vest, classic trench coat or water-resistant jacket offers versatility while protecting your outfit from unexpected rain, shedding fur or a muddy embrace after your pup
discovers the nearest puddle.
When it comes to handbags, practicality can still be chic. Crossbody bags and roomy totes leave your hands free for leashes, treats or little ones. Choose structured styles in durable materials that wipe clean easily and feature plenty of interior pockets for keeping essentials organized.
For those who love darker colors, there's good news: navy, olive, charcoal and rich earth tones naturally camouflage pet hair better than black while remaining timeless wardrobe staples. If you prefer lighter shades, don't avoid them altogether — simply reserve them for occasions when your pet's affectionate greeting is less likely to leave its mark.
Denim continues to be one of the hardest-working pieces in any pet owner's closet. A great pair of jeans paired with a crisp button-down, soft knit, or casual blazer offers effortless style that can handle everything from family photos to weekend adventures. Accessories can also make life easier. Keep a compact lint roller in your car or tote bag, choose washable scarves, and opt for simple jewelry that won't snag on collars or leashes during playtime.
Above all, remember that the best wardrobe is one that fits your lifestyle. Clothing should give you the confidence to say yes to spontaneous walks, backyard games, family outings, and quiet moments with the pets who make a house feel like home.
After all, a few paw prints — and a little pet hair — are often signs of a life well lived. The right wardrobe simply helps you enjoy every moment in style.
By Guru Travel - An Earmarked by Disney Authorized Travel Agency since 2015
ike so many of our neighbors in Geneva, St. Charles and Elburn, Ashley leads a beautifully full, fast-paced life. Between juggling soccer schedules, demanding corporate calendars and local commitments, her calendar is packed from morning till night. So, when a rare vacation window opened, she couldn't wait to escape. But as she sat at her computer late one evening — staring at endless travel forums, try-it-yourself blogs and stressful booking windows — she realized something discouraging: planning this "relaxing" trip felt exactly like a stressful, unpaid second job. Instead of feeling excited, she felt completely overwhelmed. Does that sound familiar?
Too often, family vacations end up feeling more like work than actual relaxation. We look forward to that uninterrupted, quality time with our favorite people, but the stress of coordinating calendars, finding transportation, and managing the endless logistics takes all the fun out of travel. You shouldn't have to work overtime just to take a break.
That is exactly why Ashley decided to take a different path. She reached out to us at Guru Travel, and we recommended a Disney Cruise for her family. From the moment they stepped onboard the ship, Ashley told me she felt an immediate weight lift off her shoulders. “For the first time in years,” she shared, “everything was completely taken care of. I could finally just relax and enjoy being a mom.”
That is the true magic of a Disney Cruise. It is a world masterfully engineered for seamless family harmony. While the kids are off making friends and having the time of their lives in secure, highly imaginative youth clubs, parents can sneak away to quiet, adults-only sanctuaries. In the evening, the family reconnects for spectacular Broadway-style shows and Disney's unique rotational dining. Your dedicated servers — who quickly memorize everything from your favorite drink to your toddler’s dietary preferences — actually move with you to a different themed restaurant each night.
But to get this kind of true, stress-free break, you need a trusted guide. Kelly says, “As a former teacher,
Kelly O'Brien Ortiz is the Founder of Guru Travel, an Earmarked by Disney Authorized Travel Agency. As an Elgin resident, former educator, mom, and grandma, Kelly has visited Walt Disney World over 200 times and holds Disney Cruise Line’s elite Castaway Club Platinum Status. She and her team specialize in taking the stress out of vacation planning for families across the Fox Valley. Connect with Kelly at kelly@thewdwguru.com or by calling 630-885-3999.
education is at the very heart of everything we do at Guru Travel. We don't just 'book' trips; we are your source of trusted travel expertise, especially when it comes to Disney Destinations. We guide you through the hidden details — like selecting the perfect stateroom location, avoiding noisy decks, or securing those coveted private island cabanas.”
Since 2015, our Elgin-based agency has proudly held Disney’s highly competitive EarMarked by Disney Authorized Travel Agency status. We leverage over a decade of hands-on expertise to ensure your precious family time is spent making memories, not managing logistics.
You deserve to be the guest on your vacation, not the project manager. To step straight into the magic and start planning your customized, worry-free voyage, scan our QR code, and let’s connect today!
By Chris Walker
No one knows what it’s like to be a caregiver until they become one.
Just ask Colleen McGuinn, the president of Home Instead, a trusted source for in-home care services for seniors in St. Charles as well as throughout Cook, DuPage, Kane, Kendall and Will counties.
It not only has changed McGuinn’s life, but afforded her the opportunity to help change countless others. She stepped away from a highly successful career in sales and marketing to become the primary family caregiver after her father became ill. Inspired by the experience of such a caregiving role, McGuinn was led to Home Instead, where seniors receive the same level of high-quality care thanks to support that is consistent, thoughtful and personal.
“I think what we try to convey to a lot of people is that they can have the care at home they need with the highest level of dignity and respect, and are allowed to live as independently as they can with whatever supplemental help they need,” McGuinn says. “We like
to provide the solutions so people can still feel like they can live the way they want to live.”
Home Instead provides personalized care, support and education to help enhance the lives of aging adults and their families. Striving to partner with each of its clients and family members to help meet their individual needs, Home Instead is committed to keeping seniors, as well as people with chronic health issues, safe and comfortable in a familiar environment where they can live with dignity as they age.
“I’ve done this for 22 years and the elderly will start withdrawing from social situations when they can’t hear that well,” McGuinn says. “I’m a big proponent of doing something before waiting for something to happen. Get in there and do something before people have less choices, because after a fall and a broken hip then you suddenly have a whole different level of care needed.”
Offering non-medical home care that’s tailored to each individual’s needs, Home Instead can help with a wide range of day-to-day needs, including personal care, meal prep, light housekeeping, medication reminders, transportation and errands, mobility support and
companionship and engagement. In addition, 24-hour care, in-home memory care and specialized care for diabetes, arthritis and other health challenges are available.
“We feel like we have the right processes in place and we’re always adapting and being open to change and willing to add on new things if we see something that can help,” McGuinn says. “We’re working right now with AI on virtual care assistance, so not only can we provide caregivers in-home, but we can have this virtual care plugged into the wall which picks up over 1,000 medical terms and phrases so when we are reviewing it, and looking at data, it can point us to where the issues are.”
While Home Instead is invested in continuing to learn the best ways to support seniors, it also remains committed to being a local resource.
“We stay involved in the community and do a lot of sponsorships through the park districts,” McGuinn says. “We want people to have the right resource. If it’s not Home Instead, we want people to use a good trusted colleague. We want to be a resource so we can provide all the help you need.”
Bacon Wrapped Filet Mignons ~ Boneless Ribeye ~ Prime Rib ~ Bone-In Strip Steak ~ N.Y. Strip ~ Porterhouse We dry age choice & prime cuts of American Beef and cut them to your specs! Your Local Butcher
Fire Up Your Barbeque with our COOKOUT
Homemade Italian or Polish Sausage • Brats • Aged Tender Steaks • BBQ Ribs • Jumbo Chops
Signature Burgers for the Grill (12oz. each)
Tuscan • Blue Cheese • Bacon-Onion Cheddar • Jalapeno Jack • Gourmet Sliders - A Summer Favorite!
Have you Met the "Godfather" Try our "Godfather" Sausage and "Godfather" Burgers. Homemade Sausage with 3 cheeses, basil, parsley & hot giardiniera.
The Ultimate Tasting Burger Ever Created ~The Cowboy Burger~ Made with Prime Brisket & California Prime Tri-Tip Our Many Homemade Salads Made Daily
Republic Kitchen + Bar
155 S. Randall Road, Elgin 224-535-9544 | www.oldrepublicbar.com
Voted Best Patio six years running (2020–2025), Old Republic Kitchen + Bar in Elgin is a lively American restaurant known for scratch-made comfort food, craft cocktails, cold beer, and an energetic indoor/outdoor atmosphere. From award-winning burgers and slow-smoked ribs to thin-crust pizza and weekend specials, The OR has become a favorite gathering place for friends, families, and groups year-round. Guests enjoy live music, big-game sports, fire pits, and one of the area’s most popular patios. Whether it’s happy hour, dinner, or a night out, Old Republic delivers great food, great drinks, and good times in the heart of Elgin.
15 S. River Lane, Geneva 630-208-8920 | www.herringtoninn.com/dining
Atwater’s patio delivers serene charm with an incredible view of the Fox River. Lush flowers fill the courtyard, creating a peaceful retreat that begins — and ends — with the view. Enjoy private dining in the gazebo for up to eight guests. Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner, with brunch served on Sundays. Savor farm-to-table fare, wild-caught seafood and USDA Prime steaks. Atwater’s is a 2025 Wine Spectator award winner, offering an extended list perfectly paired with our seasonal menu. Our lobby bar is ideal for date nights or intimate gatherings. Whether you’re seeking relaxation or celebration, Atwater’s offers an unforgettable outdoor dining experience in a truly picturesque setting.
Squire Ale House
41W379 Route 64, Campton Hills
630-389-7740 | www.squirealehouse.com
Squire Ale House is a fresh take on the traditional experience of its sibling restaurant, Village Squire. This new addition to the Karas Restaurant Group offers a more tavern-style atmosphere while maintaining the signature elements that make the original brand a success. Squire Ale House is a destination for family dinners and casual dining. Menu highlights include a mix of homegrown, classic and craft brews plus burgers, ribs and the Village Squire’s famous broasted chicken. Enjoy food and beverages on the outdoor patio. Don't miss live music every night Tuesday through Sunday.
FBy Jamie Baker | Photos provided by Maria Ananieva
ine artist Maria Ananieva first noticed a beautiful mama mallard duck and her brood in early April after Limestone Coffee & Tea owners Leah and Joy pointed the waterfowl out on the Batavia Public Library’s patio. Just like any home expertly crafted by a protective, avian mother, the mallard’s roost was comfortable, soft and feathery, nestled safely in one of the library’s planters.
Knowing that overexposure may bring harm to the mama and her impending ducklings, Batavia Public Library employees decided to not put up a sign indicating the nest. Ananieva says the mallard blended in well with her surroundings and most people didn’t notice the nesting bird unless they already knew about her.
As a barista at Limestone, Ananieva frequently talked with the customers who knew about Mama
Mallard — most of them Batavia Public Library staff. Mama Mallard became a connection their little community rooted for and cared about. “We all chatted about how she is doing today and how long we think before the babies hatch,” she says. “I was surprised all the ducklings made it, which was of course a very heartwarming win for her and us.”
Ananieva’s love for waterfowl drew the artist and barista to Mama Mallard's family of ducks, granting her the opportunity to witness motherhood in the wild for the first time up close. “This was an amazing opportunity, and just being there often and following the process was very interesting, because you become invested in their wellbeing,” she says. “I was there when all the babies finally made the jump and followed mom into the Fox River — it was truly a memorable experience.”
As an artist and contemplative thinker, Ananieva says she always ponders the “bigger” questions in life. Her passion for conservation affords her a deep connection to animals and nature in general. “I also lead a vegan lifestyle and am fully on the animal’s side when it comes to protecting them,” she says. “I believe that learning more about wildlife can help us understand it more and what to do in situations where we can help versus what not to do.”
Mama Mallard’s journey inspired Ananieva to pick up her brushes and capture the moment on canvas. She brought the ducks to life in the grass with a blue sky above them, a choice inspired by where Ananieva imagines the family ended up after they started their journey on the river. The painting is entitled “Motherhood” and was proudly displayed at Limestone Coffee & Tea in Batavia for the month of July.
The experience has been a rewarding one for Ananieva, all the folks at Limestone Coffee & Tea and the staff and visitors at the Batavia Public Library. She hopes the moments they shared with Mama Mallard inspire the community to become more curious about wildlife.
By
We’ve done the grunt work and found some fun for you and the family to enjoy. Take advantage of the time you’ll save from no longer having to look for stuff to do while also being easy on your wallet thanks to these activities that are free or low-cost.
A vast collection of aircraft, uniforms and other aviation memorabilia, some of which date back to the 1930s, is on site at this volunteer-run aviation museum.
You can experience what it feels like to sit in an A-7 from the Gulf War or the pilot’s seat of a UH-1 Huey helicopter and more. Admission is $5 for children ages 5-15, $10 for adults and $7 for seniors 62 and older.
n 44W546 US Route 30, Sugar Grove. www.airclassicsmuseum.org
Absolutely free to the public, this museum has housed rich stories of Batavia’s past since 1975 with seven permanent exhibits centered around Batavia’s beginnings and legacy, along with seasonal exhibits, historic outbuildings, a gift shop and more.
n 155 Houston St., Batavia. www.bataviaparks.org
Window Cling - Aug. 26
Come out to the Batavia Public Library and learn how to make a beautiful stained glassed window cling and add
some color to your windows. Newton Room. 7-8 p.m. Registration is required. FREE.
n 10 S. Batavia Ave., Batavia. www.bataviapl.org
DuPage Children’s Museum Popup Program (ages 2-5)Aug. 24
The St. Charles Public Library welcomes the DuPage Children’s Museum for a popup program of art, including color, texture and design using a variety of materials. Kids will paint, mold, squish, swirl and smile while bringing color into their creations. PopArt provides an inclusive art experience that combines sensory exploration with fine and gross motor activities, literacy and social-emotional development. 5:30-7 p.m. FREE.
n One South 6th Ave, St. Charles. www.scpld.libnet.info
Elgin’s Movies in the Park
Gather the family before the new school year begins with the last of Elgin’s FREE outdoor summer movie nights. Bring lawn chairs, blankets, bug spray and snacks. Concessions, including popcorn, will be available for purchase with
proceeds supporting nonprofits. Movies begin at dusk. "Paddington" (Aug. 7) at Wing Park Family Aquatic Center, "Encanto" (Aug. 14) at College Green Park and "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" (Aug. 21) at Festival Park. n www.elginil.gov
Family StorytimeAug. 4, 7, 11, 18, 25
This lively, interactive experience at the Geneva Public Library is for children of all ages and their caregivers to enjoy books, music and playful activities together. A limited number of nametags will be available 15 minutes prior to storytime. Stroller parking is available in Kids Landing. 9:30-10 a.m. FREE. n 227 S. Seventh St., Geneva. www.gpld.org
Pajama Storytime - Aug. 12, 26
Bring the family and get comfortable in your PJs for a half hour of stories, rhymes, lullabies and guessing games before calling it a night. Stroller parking is available in Kids Landing. Bring a blanket. 6:30-7 p.m. FREE.
n 227 S. Seventh St., Geneva. www.gpld.org
Aug. 29
Bring your imagination for hours of pretend play, role-playing, construction and even inventing your own new games while exploring the Geneva Public Library. 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. FREE.
n 227 S. Seventh St., Geneva. www.gpld.org
Aug. 14-16, 21-23
“Oh, the thinks you can think” when Dr. Seuss’ best-loved characters collide and cavort in an unforgettable musical caper! Join Playhouse 38 in Geneva for this story of friendship, loyalty, family and community! $10 in advance, $15 at the door. Aug. 14, 21 (7 p.m.), Aug. 15, 22 (3 p.m. and 7 p.m.) and Aug. 16, 23 (3 p.m.).
n 321 Stevens St., Geneva. www.genevaparks.org
Aug. 15
Come to the Santori Library in Aurora and join in the fun with a magical Tooth Fairy storytime with a dentist before designing your own Tooth Fairy pillow while discovering fun facts about dental
health. For ages 6 to 11 with a caregiver. FREE.
n 101 S. River St., Aurora. www.aurorapubliclibrary.org
Stories at the Nature CenterAug. 12
Visit the Creek Bend Nature Center at LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve from 10:3011 a.m. to hear stories before walking the trails with your family. Don’t forget to look for the StoryWalk during this event co-sponsored by the St. Charles Public Library and Forest Preserve District of Kane County. FREE.
n 37W700 Dean St., St. Charles. www.scpld.libnet.info
Absolute Science is bringing its Mega Foam Blaster to the Gail Borden Public Library’s Rakow Branch for a Summer Foam Party where it will shoot nonslippery, non-toxic, non-staining, nonallergenic foam for fantastic fun. Don’t forget to bring chairs and beach towels. 11 a.m. to noon.
n 2751 W. Bowes Rd., Elgin. www.gailborden.info
There’s something almost ceremonial about turning 65 in America. It’s the moment when birthday cake meets bureaucracy, when candles mingle with coverage options, and when the calendar nudges you toward two of the most important financial programs in the country: Medicare and Social Security.
At our boutique wealth management firm, we like to say that age 65 isn’t just a number — it’s a checkpoint. A friendly signpost on the road of life that says, “Slow down a moment. Let’s make sure everything is lined up just right.” And with a little preparation, it can be one of the smoothest transitions you’ll ever make.
Most folks become eligible for Medicare at 65. Even if you’re still working or covered under a spouse’s plan, this milestone deserves your attention. Medicare isn’t complicated once you
break it down, but it does require timely action.
1. Enroll in Medicare Part A (Hospital Insurance). For most people, Part A is premium-free because you’ve paid into the system through payroll taxes. Even if you’re still working and covered by employer insurance, enrolling in Part A at 65 is usually a smart move. It can help cover hospital stays and may coordinate with your existing coverage.
2. Decide whether to enroll in Part B (Medical Insurance). Part B covers doctor visits, outpatient care and preventive services. But unlike Part A, it comes with a monthly premium. If you’re still working at 65 and covered by a large employer plan (20+ employees), you may be able to delay Part B without penalty. If your employer is smaller — or if you’re self-employed — enrolling at 65 is typically the safer route.
The key is knowing the rules. Missing your enrollment window can lead to
lifelong penalties, and nobody wants their birthday celebration followed by a surprise surcharge.
3. Explore Part D or Medicare Advantage. Prescription drug coverage (Part D) and Medicare Advantage plans (Part C) are optional but important. Advantage plans bundle Parts A, B and often D into one package, sometimes with extra perks like dental or vision. This is where a little folksy wisdom applies: don’t just pick the plan your neighbor loves. Pick the plan that fits your health, your medications and your lifestyle.
4. Review your Medigap options. If you choose Original Medicare (Parts A and B), you may want a Medigap policy to help cover deductibles and coinsurance. These plans are standardized, but premiums vary widely. Your Medigap open enrollment window begins at 65 and lasts six months — during this time, insurers must accept you regardless of health. After that, underwriting may apply. It’s a “use it or lose it” opportunity.
Turning 65 doesn’t automatically mean you should claim Social Security. In fact, most people’s Full Retirement Age (FRA) is between 66 and 67, depending on birth year. But 65 is the perfect moment to take stock of your options.
1. Understand your claiming age choices. You can claim Social Security as early as 62 or as late as 70. Claiming early gives you smaller checks for life; delaying increases your benefit by roughly 8% per year past FRA. At 65, you’re right in the middle of the decision zone. It’s time to run the numbers, consider your health, evaluate your income needs and think about longevity.
2. Coordinate benefits with your spouse. Married couples have more strategy options than they often realize. Survivor benefits, spousal benefits and timing differences can dramatically affect lifetime income. Think of Social Security
Turning 65 isn’t just about government programs. It’s also a great moment to tidy up your financial house.
• Review your health savings account (HSA) strategy. Once you enroll in Medicare, you can no longer contribute to an HSA — but you can still use it tax-free for medical expenses.
• Update your estate documents. Wills, powers of attorney and health care directives should reflect your current wishes.
• Revisit your retirement income plan. Make sure your withdrawal strategy aligns with your lifestyle, tax situation and long-term goals.
as a team sport — the best outcome comes from coordinating your plays.
3. Consider taxes and income planning. Social Security benefits can be taxable depending on your other income sources. If you’re planning Roth conversions, pension income or IRA withdrawals, the timing of your Social Security claim can influence your tax bracket. This is where a boutique wealth management firm earns its keep — helping you weave together Medicare premiums, Social Security timing and retirement income in a way that keeps Uncle Sam from taking more than his fair share.
Turning 65 is like reaching the crest of a hill on a long country drive. You’ve worked hard to get here, and now you can see the road stretching out ahead — clear, open and full of possibility. Medicare and Social Security aren’t hurdles; they’re tools. And with a little guidance, they can help you enjoy the next chapter with confidence, comfort and peace of mind.
Questions? We encourage you to reach out to your financial advisor and your insurance agent. Still unsure? Give our team a call. We’re committed to helping assure our client’s lifestyle and legacy.
Authored by Tom McCartney, founding principal of My Advisor & Planner and a wealth manager, RJFS. Pictured left to right with his team are co-founder and wealth manager Sharon Piet, Tom, and Michael Holevas, CFA, wealth manager. Any opinions are those of My Advisor & Planner and not necessarily those of Raymond James. Every investor’s situation is unique, and you should consider your investment objectives, risks and costs before making an investment. Investing involves risk and you may incur a profit or loss regardless of strategy selected, including diversification and asset allocation. Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services are offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. My Advisor & Planner is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services. Their office is at 107 S. 2nd Street, Geneva, IL 60134. Call 630-457-4068.
Understanding what people are passionate about is how we help them plan for what’s most important. Backed by sophisticated resources, a Raymond James financial advisor gets to know you and everything that makes your life uniquely complex. That’s Life Well Planned.
