KCC_KC Magazine July 2025

fresh, localFARE

Editorʼs NOTE

We start July celebrating America and what it means to live in one of the most culturally unique countries in the world.

To me, we are different because we welcome races, cultures and religions from all over the globe. To me, that’s part of what it means to be American. Growing up, I heard the words “melting pot” so many times in history class and I think that still applies today. With this edition of Kane County Magazine, we collected a melting pot of stories that illustrate the wonderfully passionate nature of the U.S.A.

From a local institution’s Italian roots, only strengthened and grown stronger in Illinois (page 14), to the Kane County Cougars’ continuation of a storied American game (page 22), we’ve included so many interesting pieces for you to dig into.

If you’re looking for a new style (or to reinvent a classic) turn to page 18 and get an easy lesson in vintage Americana beauty tips to try out this summer. If you want to bring that throwback theme to your wardrobe,

check out page 20 for local thrift boutiques and stores to make it easy and affordable. What would small-town America be without her festivals? Don’t miss celebrating the 156th year of the Kane County Fair in St. Charles (more on page 7). And if you are looking for more fun events around the county, clip out page 29 and circle the dates that interest you most.

There is so much more to explore in the Vintage & Americana edition of Kane County Magazine, and we are so proud to bring this colorful and community-centered publication to your fingertips. As always, thank you for reading!

Kelley White, Editor

on the COVER

Elburn's Heritage Prairie Farm showcases their own in-season produce at the venue's monthly Farm Dinners. Find out how other businesses source products locally on page 10!

Next month: Learn about family-friendly and pet-friendly activities and destinations around Kane County in the August issue!

PUBLISHER

Kane County Chronicle & Northwest Herald 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 Andel, Jonathan Bilyk, Kevin Druley, Terri Oppenheimer, Vicki Martinka Petersen, Melissa Rubalcaba Riske, Grace Rosati, Diane Krieger Spivak, Patricia Szpekowski 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

VINTAGE & AMERICANA

7 156 YEARS OF THE KANE COUNTY FAIR

Join in the celebration of agriculture and family fun

10 FRESH, LOCAL FARE

These popular businesses source their products close to home

12 EXPOSITION PARK

From the early 1900s until now

13 FROM BLACKSMITH SHOP TO DINNER HOT SPOT

A brief glimpse into the history of an East Dundee landmark

14 MADE IN AMERICA, ROOTED IN ITALY

Josef’s Elegante Meats & Deli carries a family legacy of excellence

16 THE ALL-AMERICAN DINER EXPERIENCE

At the nostalgic center of community and culture

18 CLASSIC STYLE WITH A MODERN TWIST

3 Americana beauty looks reimagined

20 VINTAGE THREADS

Thrifted clothes recycle and reinvigorate trends

22 FOR THE LOVE OF BASEBALL

Join the Kane County Cougars for one of the greatest American pastimes

26 50 YEARS OF FAMILY BUSINESS

Four generations of Honeymans celebrate

The Bike Rack

LIFESTYLE & ENTERTAINMENT

28 YOUR SKIN’S BEST FRIEND

Elements

Massage lauds the necessity of SPF

29 CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Don’t miss these dates in July!

30 SAVOR SUMMER

The Perch gives 4 tips for remaining mindful and relaxed

31 GRAB A BOOKMARK

Save some space on your shelf for these Geneva Public Library-approved titles

32 PARK PLAYDATES

Explore parks around St. Charles this summer

34 GENEVA HOME WORKS

Maximize your home’s comfort and aesthetic with furnishings

36 PATIO PERFECTION

Find out where to dine al fresco

40 WISDOM FROM CHEWING GUM

Suburban Superdad talks short-term flavor while sticking to a long-term course

42 ARTIST OF THE MONTH

Carrie Molloy is a multifaceted artist

44 SUMMER FUN & FIREWORKS

Midwest Vet talks keeping pets safe and secure during seasonal festivities

BUSINESS

&

CIVIC

46 HELPING MAKE SAUSAGE

My Advisor & Planner shares input on the issues plaguing Capitol Hill

KANE FAIR 156 YEARS OF THE COUNTY

Tradition celebrates agriculture & family fun

By Patricia Szpekowski |

Wow! The Kane County Fair in St. Charles is celebrating its 156th year in 2025. The longevity and legacy of the Kane County Fair spans decades of honoring the agricultural community and providing good old fashioned family fun for everyone to enjoy. Just think, that when the Kane County Fair was formed in 1868, General Ulysses S. Grant was elected as President of the United States.

Its lasting tradition has woven throughout Kane County from Aurora to Wing Park in Elgin to St. Charles, where the present Kane County Fairgrounds settled on Randall Road in 1955.

Photos provided by Elgin History Museum and Kane County Fair

The Kane County Fair will be held this year on July 16-20. The first day begins with a carnival only. The carnival with unlimited ride specials is brought by the familyowned Fantasy Amusements. It continues the next four days along with 4-H animal exhibitions; lots of kids events; fabulous fair food; live music entertainment; and thrilling grandstand events.

County fairs throughout the United States and our own State of Illinois have been the conduit to spread the good news about our local farms, show off their animals and livestock, and the generations of families who work unceasingly to take care of the animals or work the land from sunrise to sunset.

The Kane County Fair is brought to the community by the Kane County Fair board of directors, who each have their own stories of involvement with 4-H throughout

their lifetime. Larry Breon, board chair, can’t remember a time when he wasn’t involved with 4–H and the Kane County Fair.

“My father Cliff was a farmer and 4-H was an important part of our life as a family,” says Larry says. “It was exciting when the Kane County Fair took place each year. I was just a kid when we placed the first flagpole right here in the fairgrounds.”

This year’s Kane County Fair includes many of the fairgoer’s favorite events including the Swifty Swine Racing Pigs, Balster Kidbuck$ Game Show, and the Friendly Farms Petting Zoo.

The whole family looks forward to these fun activities each year. The weekend also includes the JP Classic Car Show. See the line-up of beautiful vintage cars owned by car enthusiasts.

SUNDAY JULY 13, 10AM - 5PM July 11-13

FRIDAY JULY 11, 6-9PM It’s 7/11 and we have the slushies! Performance by Leslie Hunt Local Celebrity Bartender, BBQ Food Truck 8-9am Doggie Yoga | 9-10am Private Shopping 10am-1pm Coffee Cart | 10am-1pm Doggie Adoption Event 12-1:30 Cotton Candy | 1pm-2pm Ice Cream Truck 1pm-3pm Live Music

SATURDAY JULY 12, 10AM - 5PM Bloody Mary Charcuterie 9-10am Private Shopping | 10am-1pm Coffee Cart 11am-1pm Doggie Adoption Event | 1pm-2pm Ice Cream Truck

Kane, DeKalb, and surrounding Area Since 2012

The grandstand thrills, including the Professional Championship Bullriders and Cowgirls on Friday night and two shows on Saturday; as well as the smash-em, bash-em Demolition Derby with two shows on Sunday, are a huge hit with everyone. Who can deny the minute-by-minute action of both of these wild events where bull riders hang on real tight to ride the bull and flip in the air, or watch the demo derby cars bang into each other with rising smoke not far behind?

Live music on the Miller Lite Soundstage keeps toes tapping and hands clapping, not to mention that many get up and dance the night away by the stage, too. This year’s musical line-up includes Eric Chesser; Tripping Billies; Mark Atkins; Hillbilly Rockstarz; and How Rude.

n FIND OUT MORE about this year’s Kane County Fair by visiting www.kanecountyfair.com.

By Vicki Martinka Petersen

Photos provided by Art History Brewing, Hardware and Madison Taylor Photography

Art History Brewing

Supporting local businesses isn’t just about the storefront. It’s about building strong local partnerships with other hometown businesses.

Take Ream’s Meat Market, a staple in Elburn for over 70 years, for example. This old-fashioned family-owned business is known for its high quality fresh meat, smoked meats and other unique food items.

When you step inside their store, you’ll find a freezer case stocked with locally raised pork and chicken as well as grass-fed beef. Ream’s also sells locally raised farm-fresh eggs and local honey. In the summer, it’s a hot spot where customers can stop by the Wurst Wagon in their parking lot from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday where they serve up your choice of a brat, hot dog or burger for lunch.

In turn, Ream’s Meat Market works with local distributors and several area restaurants, including Colonial Cafe in St. Charles. Start off the day with a Ream’s Bavarian Breakfast with your choice of Ream’s brat patty or Ream’s kielbasa sausage served with a side of spicy mustard, eggs and potato pancakes. The menu also features Ream’s Burgers made with ground beef brisket and short rib. Or try the Ream’s brat pork patty on grilled pretzel bread. Next time you’re cheering on the Kane County Cougars in Geneva, be sure to stop by the Ream’s Sausage cart near home plate. There you can try a Ream’s beer brat, cheese curd brat, jalapeno brat, polish sausage or bacon cheddar sausage. The cart also has drinks, chips and peanuts to round out your ballpark dinner.

Ream’s isn’t the only local vendor Cougars fans can enjoy at the ballpark. The Wannemaker’s Food Truck Patio on the first base side features a rotating lineup of local food trucks including Sammy’s Mexican Grill located in Elgin. Satisfy a sweet tooth with funnel cakes from BBQ Express based in Oswego or a bag of caramel, cheddar or Chicago Mix popcorn from Mama Lee’s Gourmet Popcorn located in Elgin. The Pride Craft Beer Cave over by the third base side features over 25 local breweries. Rounding out the local vendors lineup at the Cougars includes Charlie Fox’s located in Geneva, Whiskey Acres bourbon bar based in DeKalb, and Oberweis soft serve ice cream, headquartered in North Aurora.

Staying local with vendors also promotes sustainability by minimizing a company’s carbon footprint. Hardware in North Aurora prides itself in

sustainability by growing its own produce year-round in its greenhouse. They also grow fruits and nuts in an on-site micro orchard and garden.

In addition, Hardware's 1.5 acre hop farm provides one of the base ingredients for all of its beer. The menu varies by season based on what's growing. The bacon as well as some sausages and charcuterie are made in house.

Over at Heritage Prairie Farm in Elburn, the monthly Farm Dinners offer familystyle meals showcasing produce in season at the farm. For some meals, they partner with a local distillery or brewery, like Obscurity Brewing, also in Elburn.

Farm Dinners begin at 6 p.m. with butler-passed appetizers during cocktail hour followed by dinner at 7 p.m. Upcoming Farm Dinners include:

• Cowboy Disco themed Cocktail Party Farm Dinner, Thursday, July 17, featuring specialty cocktails and food stations.

• Hops, Homestead & Honey Farm Dinner, Thursday, Aug. 7, with local brew partner Obscurity Brewing.

• Harvest Moon Farm Dinner, Thursday, Sept. 11, featuring heirloom vegetables and unique coastal dishes inspired by Nantucket.

In addition to partnering with Heritage Prairie Farm, Obscurity Brewing is a destination in its own right serving up craft beer and wood-smoked BBQ deliciousness like brisket, ribs and pulled pork. Across the street is Obscurity Mead Hall & Cidery that makes naturally fermented meads and ciders using naturally sourced wildflower honey straight from their hives. You can bring home Obscurity Brewing offerings from several local stores including Prisco’s Family Market in Aurora and Woodman’s in North Aurora.

Another local brewery to try is Art History Brewing in Geneva. Their beer lineup includes a variety of European style lagers and hop-forward North American ales. Choose to hang out in the traditional German beer garden or stop by the tasting room where you can sample their craft beer. Type in your location in the Beer Finder on their website for a listing of local restaurants, bottle shops and retailers in the greater Chicago area serving up their craft beer.

To start off your day with a fresh cup of joe, Manbot Coffee Roasters delivers their roasted coffee on weekends to homes in North Aurora, Batavia, Geneva, St. Charles and select towns in DuPage County. They’re also a regular at several farmer’s markets this summer including:

• St. Charles Farmer’s Market on Fridays through Oct. 24

• Batavia Artisan Market every third Saturday through Oct. 18

Hardware

Heritage Prairie Farm

Exposition Park

From the early 1900s until now

By Chris Walker |

Today, people have lots of different parks nearby to visit for summertime fun.

Whether it’s amusement parks, waterparks, community parks with playgrounds, ballparks for baseball and softball games and even dog parks, there seemingly are unlimited opportunities for summertime adventures in Kane County today.

The same couldn't be said in the early 1900s in the Aurora area.

That all changed for a while though in 1922 when the Central States Fair and Exposition came to North Aurora.

According to “Images of America, North Aurora, 1834-1940,” Joseph Slater purchased 139 acres of land in North Aurora for the center and fair with an initial investment of $100,000. It was situated on farmland near what is now U.S. Route 31 and I-88.

A grandstand, numerous exposition buildings for cattle and produce, along with a mile-long racing track were the initial offerings. By the late 1920s, an additional $340,000 was invested for a community swimming pool and cottage hotel.

Advertisements welcomed guests to “swim in drinking water,” in one of the

largest freshwater pools in the world at the Central States Fair and Exposition. Ranging from one to 10-feet deep, this pool covered 360’ x 160’ and could accommodate more than 5,000 swimmers at one time!

For a period of time, the Central States Fair and Exposition was the second most popular amusement park in Illinois with only Chicago’s Riverview Park drawing more people.

Frank Thielen, who was called “Mr. Show Biz” of the Fox Valley, called it “the

Coney Island of the Middle West.”

Thielen also was the first to introduce vaudeville and motion picture theater in Aurora in 1899.

Today, to find directions to get somewhere, all you need to do is push a button on a handheld phone and say, “Directions to Exposition Amusement Park in Aurora, Illinois.” Back then, Thielen distributed countless brochures that not only promoted his park’s attractions but explained how easy it was to get there to experience them.

His brochures explained how you could get to the park from one of four highways and two railroads. Upon arrival in the cities along the Fox River, guests utilized an interurban electric line that took them to the entrance. Located on the east side of the Lincoln Highway, guests gained access by way of an underground tunnel.

The park was open from Easter until late fall annually. It’s believed that as many as 85,000 people were on the grounds on some Sundays, the most popular day during August and September.

Seeing the newest wheeled vehicles certainly was a big draw of the park. Car dealers from Aurora, Batavia, Chicago and Naperville had cars on display.

Others alleviated their need for speed on the Exposition Flyer, a roller coaster popular among teens. Some sought thrills on Exposition Park’s version of the Ferris wheel, an elliptical called the Swooper which could hold up to 18 people and would raise and drop them in pair.

Attendance declined as the Great Depression grasped hold of America and the Fair ended in 1931, although the park remained open in some capacity until World War II.

Photos provided by Messenger Public Library of North Aurora Local History Collection

From blacksmith shop to a dinner hot spot

A brief look into the history of

Back in the mid 1950s, a group of prominent Dundee area men were probably hungry when they began talking about the possibility of opening a private dinner club.

They were looking for a home away from home where they could relax and socialize among wonderful company while enjoying food and service that was beyond comparison.

Bill Ball, Ray Curnow, Al Edwards, George Edwards, Ed Eichler, Joseph Estes, Abner Kinne, Al Kirkland, Bill O’Brien and Dr. Fred Simpson had learned that the blacksmith shop on Meier St. in East Dundee would likely be for sale soon. The owner, Herman Becker, was still operating the shop, but he also was 75 years old.

According to historian Philip A. Aleo, Simpson and his wife Peggy were instrumental in supervising the efforts to transform this blacksmith shop into a dinner club. They led the restoration efforts, which included traveling throughout the U.S. and Europe for antiques to adorn the club.

It was fitting that Peggy would be involved since her family was so heavily involved in the history of the property. As the granddaughter of Henry Clay Edwards and the great granddaughter of Alfred Edwards, Peggy was also a descendent of the

an East Dundee landmark

Carpenter family that founded Carpentersville.

Alfred Edwards, who had initially settled in Dundee in 1839 at age 27, was the original property owner. He sold it in 1855 to a young farmer named Jeremiah Austin.

Austin and a handful of others owned the property until 1872 when Ed Hendricks and Frederick Mueller purchased it. For more than 20 years you could purchase new shoes for your horse or buy a carriage or wagon at the Hendricks & Mueller Blacksmith Shop.

David J. Haverkampf acquired the blacksmith shop in 1893. Becker then purchased it in 1911 and ran the shop until 1955.

Interestingly, some of the early owners of the Anvil

Club were descendants of early Dundee settlers. Two of Alfred Edwards’ great grandsons, George and Alfred, would later own the Anvil Club.

Joseph Estes was related to David Haeger who would purchase The Dundee Brick Co. in 1871. Haeger Potteries was a pottery manufacturer that was in business for 145 years, finally ceasing operation in 2016.

Featuring gorgeous dining rooms and an extensive menu with a wide-array of seafood selections, poultry, USDA prime steaks, Berkshire pork chops and more, the Anvil Club didn’t take long to gain popularity, attracting upwards of 8,000 members during its prime.

For 67 years, the Anvil Cub was a private-member only dining establishment. It opened its doors to the public in 2022.

Once news spread about the Anvil Club closing for good in July 2023, patrons made sure to get in at least one final meal if not more. For its final two months, the Anvil Club offered two settings at 5 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays and required reservations every single day.

Today, Tequila Val’s Mexican Grill and Cantina occupies the former Anvil Club, offering Mexican cuisine and family-friendly dining.

MADE IN

ROOTED IN AMERICA ITALY

Josef's Elegante Meats & Deli carries a family legacy of excellence

By Diane Krieger Spivak

For Pat Falcone, the butcher business is in his blood, no pun intended. After 62 years in meat cutting, Falcone is still going strong with his sons, Joe and Patrick, marking three generations in the trade.

It all started in Calabria, Italy. Falcone’s father, Joseph, immigrated with his family to the United States where he and eventually two friends, also from Calabria, settled in Chicago. In 1937 the trio opened a butcher shop at Halstead and Keller, “in

the old neighborhood,” says Falcone. The shop was there until 1955 when the building was demolished to make way for a parking lot for the University of Illinois, moving to 7107 West Grand Avenue where it stood until 1990. It was here where Falcone learned meat cutting from his father.

“I started working for Pops when I was about 14,” says Falcone. “We used to do 2,000 pounds a day in hamburger patties for a lot of restaurants throughout the city. I made the boxes. He used to say to me, ‘Don’t touch the knives; don’t touch the saws,

because it’s very dangerous.’ He’d go in the back and take care of business. He’d come back and I’d have the chickens and the meat cut.

“I just had it in me,” says Falcone, now 74. “ I had a willingness to learn the business. When my friends would go out on the weekends, I’d be working in my dad’s place when I was 15, 16 years old. That was my passion. Either you have it or you don’t.”

Later, Falcone opened a butcher shop in Roselle in 1980 with a former co-worker. Then, 27 years ago, with

• Photos provided by Josef’s Elegante Meats & Deli

his wife Nanette’s encouragement, he struck out on his own, opening Josef’s Elegante Meats & Deli in Geneva.

“My wife says to me, ‘Come west, young man.’ I was unhappy working for somebody else even though we knew each other for many years. I wanted something of my own. She owned a dancing school on the other side of town. She said it would be a no-brainer, ‘because there’s nothing else like you out here.’ That was in 1998.”

The shop is named after Falcone’s and Nanette’s fathers, who were both butchers named Joseph.

Why the alternate spelling? “When we went to get our license, ‘Joseph’ was already taken,” says Falcone.

The secret to Josef’s success, says Falcone, is that his shop is true to its roots.

“We’re old-time meat cutters, old-fashioned butchers. At one time, (if) somebody wanted a porterhouse steak, you went in the back, you cut a hind quarter down and you made porterhouse steaks. Unlike today, they open a box and everything is already cut for them.”

Customer favorites include the lasagna, Nona’s American Potato Salad (Falcone’s mom Helen’s recipe) and Nanette’s recipe eggplant parmesan. People still come from the old neighborhood to get it.

Josef’s uses no preservatives, chemicals or anything artificial, and everything is cut fresh.

”We make our sausage and brats and Polish, old-world recipes,” says Falcone, adding that he orders many of the shop’s ingredients from Italy, like Parmigiano Reggiano and Prosciutto di Parma. “We’ve been using my dad’s sausage recipe since 1937. We try to put everything on our counter that’s at least USDA choice or USDA prime, Iowa corn fed beef, black angus steaks. My customers expect the best, and that’s what I give them. That’s my forte.”

n Josef's Elegante Meats & Deli 716 W. State St., Geneva 630-262-1878 • www.josefsmeats.com

The All-American Diner Experience

Casual eateries are a nostalgic piece of community and culture

By Patricia Szpekowski

We’re so lucky there are so many tasty and delicious restaurants sprinkled across Kane County to enjoy breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks and desserts.

Take a break and forget about pulling out the pots, pans and skillets and making a mess in the kitchen. Start some serious thinking to make that decision of just where will you go to satisfy your hungry appetite.

Old-fashioned, vintage-themed diners have been perennial favorite choices. They have been ensconced in the American psyche as the go-to place because they are clean and pleasant and are often family-owned businesses, who cook for you as if you were family, too.

With their casual atmosphere and sometimes eclectic and quirky decor, who doesn’t love being presented a special breakfast or lunch meal from warm and friendly waitstaff. They often know what you would like to order before you do!

Daddio’s Diner in Batavia is that kind of place. “It is truly one of Batavia’s hidden gems, although locals might say it is no secret at all,” says Margaret Perreault, president and CEO of the Batavia Chamber of Commerce.

She and all of its fans think it’s a special place.

“Daddio’s Diner captures the heart of classic Americana with a warm, welcoming atmosphere, fun decor and a menu full of comfort food

Photos provided by Daddio's Diner and Pat Szpekowski

favorites,” adds Margaret. “The friendly staff, great food, and nostalgic vibe make it a go-to spot for both regulars and first-time visitors. Regulars are greeted by name, and newcomers are made to feel right at home. Owner Scott Beltran has created more than just a diner, he has built a community gathering place where people connect over pancakes and paninis. In fact, I highly recommend the breakfast panini and the pot roast panini. They are both delicious!”

Are you hungry yet? Once you’ve tried the essence of Daddio’s Diner, it’s time to spread out across the county and try a few more diners.

Paul’s Family Restaurant in Elgin has mastered the art of providing fresh and delicious breakfasts; crunchy and healthy salads; hearty soups; dinner favorites like pot roast, meatloaf, roast beef, and pork - just to start. When entering Paul’s, you will immediately see a case full of the most incredibly creative and tasty desserts. You might be thinking about which one to choose the whole time you are eating your meal. In the summer, believe it or not, they have a garden nearby, and staff plucks fresh tomatoes, zucchini and other vegetables to serve their customers.

Owner Elaine Paul has a knack for decorating the restaurant with fun, antique, and vintage items that celebrate the seasons. The current entry display is all about strawberries. There’s even a book shelf before you enter. You can take a book home to read and customers load the book shelves up with more.

Elaine even gets her loyal customers involved in other ways, too. In February she brought in some small canvases and gave them to customers who were willing to create original works of art with a Valentine theme. “They were all beautiful and it became a friendly competition as we lined them all up in the restaurant and customers voted for their favorites,” said Elaine.

State Street Diner is an authentic American and Mexican breakfast and lunch restaurant in downtown Geneva. Its menu is filled with all of your pancake and egg favorites, plus added specialties like Huevos a la Mexicana; Chorizo Scrambler; Breakfast Bacon Cheeseburger and more.

A real surprise is Allen’s Corner Diner in Hampshire. The little building sits out in the country and has a comforting throwback feel. The menu is more than generous with so many appealing choices. There are freshly-prepared egg dishes, sandwiches, stir frys, skillets, tasty hash, and their homemade biscuits and gravy. The breakfast and lunch menu is filled with a variety of choices with fun names and vintage sepia photos.

Now take a tour south to Elburn and you’ll find Rise N Dine on Main Street. The diner’s logo says it all with “Enter as Guests, Leave as Friends”. Enjoy breakfast, lunch, or dinner at this quaint restaurant. There are breakfast skillets and fluffy pancakes with fruit toppings, hearty meals, soups, sandwiches, salads and specials for the kiddoes.

If you circle back east there’s always Harner’s Bakery and Restaurant in North Aurora just waiting for you to devour their delicious meals and tasty bakery treats. All of the food is made from scratch in a good old-fashioned way. It’s unique location along the Fox River gives you time to pause and enjoy nature, too.

What’s not to love about the comforting atmosphere of dining at a diner? You might also have your own favorites that you’ve enjoyed along the way in Kane County, too. Hopefully, you’ve learned a little more about all of the hidden “diner” treasures you’ve probably just driven by many times.

It’s time to take that break and make new “diner” friends.

Entrance at Paul's Family Restaurant

Daddio's Diner

Classic Vibes,

Modern Twist

3 Classic Americana Beauty Looks Reimagined

By Yanira Garcia Andel Photos by Fred Brown Photography

There’s something endlessly alluring about vintage beauty—the timeless elegance of the ’50s, the bold experimentation of the ’60s, and the sun-kissed freedom of the ’70s. These decades left an indelible mark on beauty history, and their iconic looks continue to inspire. This season, I’m bringing that nostalgic charm into the present with updated versions of three classic Americana styles. Best of all? You can recreate each look using beauty products found right here in Kane County — no trip to the big city required.

The ’50s Pin-Up, Simplified

Marilyn Monroe meets minimalist glow

Nothing beats the allure of a red lip and a flicked liner. But today’s take on the pin-up look is softer and more skinforward. Start with a radiant base using a sheer, buildable foundation like ILIA’s Super Serum Skin Tint (available at Sephora in Geneva). Trade the sharp black liner for a creamy brown pencil to create a more diffused, sultry wing. And instead of a classic red, go for a punchy gloss in bold pink—try Original Chic Lipgloss in “Lou-Lou” from Odalisque in Geneva.

The ’60s Mod Eye, Lightened Up

Dramatic lashes, reimagined for everyday

The ’60s gave us unforgettable eye looks—Twiggy lashes, graphic liner, and candy-colored shadows. To modernize it, opt for a wash of soft peach shadow and shimmer brown liner applied just to the upper lash line. Skip the exaggerated lower lashes and let your base stay fresh and dewy. One of my go-tos? Formless Beauty’s Elevate Mascara, available at House of 423 in Geneva. Pair with a swipe of gloss and let your eyes take center stage.

The ’70s Boho Glow, Effortless and Dewy

Stevie Nicks energy with a skincare-first approach

This look is all about radiant skin and laid-back texture. Begin with a hydrating facial at Sage Healing Collective in St. Charles to set the tone. Then layer in cream-based bronzers and blush— NARS’ South Beach Multiple Stick is a local favorite even if it’s not locally made. Use it on cheeks, lids, and even lips for a cohesive glow. Fluff up your brows, add sea salt spray to your hair, and you’re ready to rock that dreamy boho vibe.

Shop Local, Stay Iconic

What makes these looks even better? You don’t have to rely on fast beauty or major retailers. Kane County is full of hidden gems—indie boutiques and beauty stores that stock clean, thoughtful products. From hard-to-find international brands at Odalisque to locally connected lines like Formless Beauty (founded by St. Charles resident Jenny McCarthy and available at House of 423), your next signature look could be just around the corner.

Whether you're headed to a summer market, backyard BBQ, or just living your retro daydream, these modern spins on vintage classics prove that timeless beauty is always in style. Channel the past—with a fresh face for the future.

VINTAGE

threads

Thrifted clothes recycle and reinvigorate fashion trends of past decades

By Grace Rosati | Photos provided by David Hill and Tammi Rojek

One man’s trash is another man’s treasure. It’s a common phrase that all thrift stores adopt. Vintage clothing is a hot market right now, with about a fourth of Americans shopping at thrift stores each year.

This is partly due to a resurgence of long-lost trends, such as ‘80s grunge baggy pants and Y2K neons. It can be difficult to keep up with the fast-paced trends of the fashion world, but David Hill, owner of Elgin Vintage, works hard to keep his merchandise fresh.

“If you're on the internet, you know what's popular and what's not,” explains Hill. “But I get inspiration from what people are wearing in general, especially at vintage events.”

His clientele’s fashion is also what stocks his store through their buy, sell, and trade-in program. Their collection ranges from genuine vintage band tees to trendy jorts, coming with price tags for people of all budget types.

This renewable practice was only natural, with ‘Love Earth Back’ being Elgin Vintage’s motto and way of life. “The new generation is really grabbing hold of the sustainability aspect of thrifting,” muses Hill.

“Even if you're not shopping at our store, we always push people to shop second hand, because that's what matters. Any little purchase makes a difference.”

Elgin Vintage is located on Spring Street in downtown Elgin, so shop green and give your clothes new life.

Elgin Vintage

St. Charles is also paying homage to the clothes of yesteryear, and Double Take Consignment is one of their top resale businesses. Owner Tammi Rojek manages about 2,500 consignors who supply her with niceties for ages 5 to 95.

“I want every single person who walks through our door to feel like there's something for them, so we take men's, women's, kids, juniors, maternity; we try to provide for the whole family,” shares Rojek.

You can find some real gems on their shelves, including designer brands like Chanel, Coach, and Gucci. However, they also have plenty of high-quality items for a reasonable cost.

“We price it so the customers get a great deal and the consignors get the most for their items,” explains Rojek. “We try to be really picky. At other thrift stores, you have to do a bit more digging, but here we've done the weeding for you.”

While she’s been in the business for nearly 15 years, her favorite thing has always been the people.

“I love hearing their stories,” she asserts. “There's a lot of people going through stuff, so if you make someone's day because you remembered their name or what they're going through, that’s the goal. That's what small businesses are for.”

Extending a helping hand is in their blood, as Double Take Consignment partners with a different local charity each quarter. Stop into their store on Main Street and join them in giving back.

Whether you are looking for a unique treasure or want to shop more sustainably, thrift stores can provide a retail experience unlike any other – so reduce, reuse and recycle!

Double Take Consignment

Double Take Consignment

For the love of

Baseball

Join the Kane County Cougars and celebrate America’s game

By Kevin Druley | Photos provided by Kane County Cougars

Brett Phillips boasts a World Series game-winning hit to his credit, yet in the eyes of the American Association of Professional Baseball, he’s merely a 31-year-old rookie.

The former Major League outfielder is converting to pitcher for the Kane County Cougars this season and serves as the club’s hitting coach, too.

What’s more, Phillips also personified the randomized leadoff song during batting practice at Northwestern Medicine Field in Geneva on a recent afternoon. What else but “Dream On” by Aerosmith could capture his odyssey and that of a team filled with players still itching to reach the heights Phillips once knew?

“It feeds the passion, you know,” Phillips said. “Regardless of what level you’re at.”

Kane County uses “Family Fun Since ‘91” as the cover slogan on gameday programs, a phrase that’s equally fitting. The Cougars in May started

their 35th season of bringing affordable, familyfriendly professional baseball to Chicagoland.

Although 2025 marks the fifth year in which the organization has been outside Major League Baseball’s affiliated minor league system, fans keep the turnstiles twisting just the same.

“They love baseball here,” Cougars first baseman Todd Lott said. “If it’s not the Cubs or White Sox, it doesn’t matter who it is. They always want to support and come out to the games.”

For decades, the youngest among them have stayed equally diligent about rolling down the grass hill seating in left and right field within moments of entering the ballpark.

“Whether you’re a little kid or whether you’re a grandpa bringing your grandkids, there’s always something for everybody,” said Claire Jacobi, Cougars director of public relations and promotions. “It’s just a great group of people that work here and everything, and everybody really is like a family.”

Players absorb and appreciate that bond as aspirations to find another one like it at a higher level of baseball begin to wane. As of May 29, the Cougars’ roster counted 11 players age 28 or older, including six thirtysomethings.

While the Cougars may not be part of an organizational pipeline, it’s possible for any of the 30 Major League franchises to sign them should their play warrant.

MLB designated the American Association as one of four Partner Leagues upon electing to streamline its minor league system after the 2020 season.

In the meantime, Lott said, “it’s all a collective effort to learn from each other.”

All the better should your teammates bring institutional knowledge from “The Show.” Phillips batted .187 in 393 games over parts of seven Major League seasons but hit .333 in the 2020 playoffs, including a two-out single that won Game 4 of the World Series for the Tampa Bay Rays against the Los Angeles Dodgers.

Cougars right-hander Chris Mazza was Phillips’ Rays teammate in 2021 and 2022.

“In affiliated world, you have all these coordinators and different people you lean on and talk to, and here, you kind of just have each other,” said shortstop Galli Cribbs Jr., who first played for the Cougars as an Arizona Diamondbacks prospect in 2015. “So having guys like that is huge, because … they’ve been to the highest level and been around some other people and been able to pick those brains.”

Phillips admittedly “saw the writing on the wall that hitting was starting to pass me by.” A passion for competition and a connection to Mazza brought him to Kane County, where he’ll coach his hitters one minute and try to retire those of the opposition the next.

“I’ve just always had a really good arm, but at some point, it’s going to end, and at least I got to do what I loved at the end of my career and enjoyed it and had fun,” Phillips said.

As with his teammates, he’s dreaming on.

50 YEARS OF FAMILY BUSINESS

Four generations of Honeymans celebrate The Bike Rack with the community

By Terri Oppenheimer

Fifty years ago, The Bike Rack was purchased by the Honeyman family. The anniversary of this St. Charles institution marks more than the creation of a community resource: It’s a celebration of family working together, building memories and making a positive difference.

The shop’s story starts in 1975, when Hal Honeyman approached his parents, Dale and Nancy, about buying the business. The building was just an empty shell in a cornfield, but the couple saw its promise. Today, The Bike Rack is part of a bustling business district. It’s owned by Hal, his mother, his sister Tammy and brother Lance. It’s grown beyond a traditional cycling shop that includes adaptive bikes for those with disabilities and Project Mobility, a charity that introduces those bikes to people with disabilities and gifts them to those who can’t afford them.

Everyone agrees that what makes The Bike Rack special is that it’s always been a family operation. From five decades ago, when Dale and Nancy helped the kids run the shop, to today, when their great-grandchildren help, the Honeymans have always worked together to make a difference in their community.

At an emotional anniversary event in May at The Bike Rack, Mayor Clint Hull remembered traveling to what was then “the country” to buy his first bike and said that when he thinks of The Bike Rack, the words that come to mind are “family” and “heart.” He also noted when people think of a bike store, they think of The Bike Rack. Longtime employee Mike Swanson grew up with Hal,

Tammy and Lance — their parents had been high school friends. After retiring, he said, “It seemed natural to help at the store. I don’t consider myself a huge bicycle enthusiast, but I really enjoy working at the shop. It has a fun atmosphere and great camaraderie. Not a day goes by that I’m not laughing at something.”

Josh Luce, territory manager for Trek Bikes, added a memory of his first encounter with Nancy Honeyman 16 years earlier. She told him, “Google Hal to see what he does.” He found “story after story about this amazing store getting people on bikes that otherwise couldn’t get on bikes.” He said the experience gave him chills and that he’s still amazed at the good work The Bike Rack does.

Hal Honeyman speaks fondly of his father working in the store until he passed away four years ago, and of his mother who at 88 still works at The Bike Rack most days. When asked what The Bike Rack means to them, Tammy’s daughters Katherine Reda and Melissa Burke reflected on their longtime involvement. Katherine recalls selling lemonade and cookies with Hal’s daughters, Clare and Emily, at the shop. Today, she’s the event director for Project Mobility, and her daughters, Cali and Shelby, ages 4 and 6 years, are planning their own fundraising lemonade stand to raise money for Project Mobility. Tammy calls her grandchildren her little fundraisers, following in their mom’s footsteps. “It’s been awesome growing up as part of The Bike Rack crew! It was so special to work and learn from my

grandma about everything from bikes and bike safety to customer service, hard work and true kindness," Melissa said. "The Bike Rack holds a special place in my heart.”

Tammy said, “My mom and dad taught us the importance of giving back, though as kids we didn’t fully understand. Now here we are, with their grandchildren and great-grandchildren already wanting to do this. What can I say? Fifty years of working with your parents … the pride that I have, that I can say they were my mom and dad, and I got to work by their side with my children and my grandchildren. It’s very special.”

At the celebration, many hoped The Bike Rack would be run by the Honeyman family long into the future. “It’s hard to believe it’s been 50 years … It feels like we just started yesterday," Hal said. "I’m grateful to have been an integral part of St. Charles for so long. The biggest thing is that we’ve been able to give back to the community the way we have. We know folks in St Charles appreciate the positive difference we’re making and hope they’ll keep supporting us and our efforts so we can continue our mission for the next 50 years.”

It's most appropriate that the last word on The Bike Rack’s 50th anniversary comes from Nancy Honeyman who, together with her husband, made the store possible for the Honeyman family. When asked her thoughts about having worked with her children for all these years, and now with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, she simply says, “It’s been wonderful. Just wonderful.”

| Photo provided by The Bike Rack

SPF

should be YOUR SKIN’S BEST FRIEND(every single day!)

When it comes to skincare, there’s one step that should never be skipped, no matter the season, weather or how busy your morning routine gets: sunscreen. We often associate SPF with summer beach days, but the truth is, daily sun protection is one of the most effective ways to preserve the health, beauty and youthfulness of your skin. Here’s why incorporating SPF into your daily routine is a non-negotiable.

THE DAILY BENEFITS OF WEARING SPF

1. Prevents premature aging: Up to 90% of visible signs of aging — like fine lines, wrinkles and age spots — are caused by sun exposure. Wearing SPF daily helps defend your skin against these damaging UV rays and keeps your complexion smoother and more even over time.

2. Shields against skin cancer: Sunscreen is more than cosmetic — it’s a health essential. Regular SPF use significantly reduces your risk of developing skin cancer, including melanoma, which can be lifethreatening.

3. Protects all skin types and tones: No matter your skin tone or type, UV rays can cause long-term damage. Sunscreen acts as a barrier, protecting your skin’s natural barrier and reducing inflammation, redness and irritation.

4. Prevents hyperpigmentation and sun spots: Daily SPF use helps prevent dark spots and uneven skin tone caused by sun exposure — keeping your complexion bright and radiant.

5. Complements and protects your skincare routine: Whether you’re using active ingredients like vitamin C or exfoliating acids, SPF is essential to protect your skin and maximize the benefits of your skincare products.

OUR FAVORITE DAILY PICK: CIRCADIA LIGHT DAY SUNSCREEN

We love Circadia’s Light Day Sunscreen because it’s lightweight, non-greasy and perfect for everyday wear — under makeup or on its own. Packed with antioxidants and broad-spectrum protection, it offers both UVA and UVB coverage without clogging pores or leaving a white cast.

TREAT YOUR SKIN TO A FACIAL & LEARN MORE

Want to know what sunscreen works best for your skin type or how to build a skincare routine that truly works? Book a customized facial with one of our expert estheticians. We’ll assess your skin’s needs, recommend products that deliver results (like our go-to SPF) and help you glow from the inside out. Your skin deserves the best — schedule your facial today and start protecting your glow.

507 S. 3rd St., Suite C, Geneva 630-232-7335

www.elementsmassage.com/geneva

JULY 2025

Check out Sidecar Supper Club's weekly installment of Bluegrass Sunday from 5-8 p.m. in Batavia

Windy City Warbirds and Classics at the Fox Valley Aero Club Field in Elburn from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Take a seat for Open Mic Mondays at Preservation in Geneva from 6-9 p.m.

Indie Music Night at Arcada Theatre in St. Charles, starting at 7 p.m.

*$10 cover charge at the door and happy hour pricing on drinks

Story Time at Creek Bend Nature Center in St. Charles from 10:30-11 a.m.

Geneva Classic Car Show from 5-8 p.m. at the Kane County Courthouse

Happy Independence Day!

Dungeons and Dragons for Teens at the Geneva Public Library for grades 6-12 from 6:308:30 p.m.

Fishing Derby at Clark Island Recreation Area in Batavia, starting at 8 a.m.-12:15 p.m.

SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 2 1 31

Take the opportunity to cool off before the week starts at one of the county's wonderful water parks!

Celebrate National Hop-A-Park Day and visit one of the many gorgeous greenspaces in Kane County!

Twilight Gaming Showdown at Dryden Park from 8-9:30

p.m. Check the GPL website for more information!

Wednesday Evening Farmers Market at N. River Street in Batavia from 5-8 p.m.

Military Appreciation Night with the Kane County Cougars in Geneva, game starts at 6:30 p.m.

Second Fridays in the Art District with Water Street Studios, starting at 6 p.m.

Sounds of Summer Jazz Concert at the Geneva Public Library from 2-3 p.m.

STC Live: 1st Street Plaza live music performances from 6-7:30 p.m.

Artisan Collective at N. River Street in Batavia from 8a.m.12p.m.

Popsicles in the Park at Engstrom Park in Batavia from 10a.m.12p.m.

Race your duck at the Duck Derby with Splash Country in Aurora at 1 p.m.

National Lifeguard Day at Otter Cover Aquatic Park in St. Charles

Join in for Christmas in July at Splash Country in Aurora *Check website for hours

KANE COUNTY FAIR

Savor Summer

SUMMER IS HERE. The weather is beautiful, and your schedule is packed. In Chicagoland, we know how to make the most of the summer months, but it’s not fun to be exhausted, either. So this summer, let’s learn to savor these fleeting summer moments rather than rushing from event to event.

l Create a simple morning routine. When the days are full, it’s a huge help to start your day in a simple, grounded way. Before the day gets going, slowly enjoy a cup of coffee, go over your schedule for the day and set your intentions for the day. I love to sit on our front porch and listen to the birds sing. Even if it’s just for a few minutes, this quiet, focused time sets me up for a calmer day. I love using the Mindful Mornings Notepad available from The Perch. It only takes five minutes, but it makes a huge difference.

l Wherever you are, be all there. Summer often means rushing from thing to thing. So much so that it’s hard to be present because we’re busy thinking about the next thing. Let’s change this by practicing mindfulness. Rather than letting your mind jump to the next thing on the to-do list, let yourself be fully present. Soak up the moment with all your senses. Intentionally slow down and notice your surroundings. Be present with the people in front of you. You’ll enjoy your time a lot more.

l Schedule free time. Rather than schedule every minute of the summer with things to do, purposely schedule in time with no plans. Summer magic often happens in the unplanned moments: playing in the sprinkler in the backyard, talking with neighbors over the fence, taking a walk or enjoying a sunset with a cold beverage.

4 tips to remain mindful, present & relaxed in the coming months

l Practice yoga and meditation. Both of these help us learn to be present and mindful. As we practice on a regular basis, we can more easily practice mindfulness at our summer barbecues and block parties. Yoga and meditation also help us relieve stress that has built up from our busy summer schedules. When you join us at The Perch for yoga class, you’ll leave feeling calm and filled up and ready for all those fun summer plans. New to meditation? Try out my guided meditations by finding my podcast, Just Press Pause, wherever you listen to podcasts.

Summer is full of fun. Make the most of it by slowing down, taking a deep breath, and enjoying every minute.

Amy Jackson is owner of The Perch, a wellness center in downtown Aurora helping you rest, heal, and grow. Learn more: www.theperchplace.com.

Grab a

FOR ADULTS:

Summer is the perfect time to catch up on some reading! Here are two recommendations for your July reading list, courtesy of the librarians at Geneva Public Library.

"Happy Medium" by Sarah Adler Ghosts, goats and grumpy guys. Though not really the typical formula for a budding romance, in the book “Happy Medium,” these are the ingredients for a love story. Gretchen Acorn can speak to ghosts. Or at least, that’s what it says on her resume. She has based her entire career on convincing the bereaved that she can communicate with their deceased loved ones. As one of the most successful spirit mediums in the D.C. area, Gretchen is hired by her wealthiest patron to perform an exorcism at a goat farm. Not her usual assignment, but with $10,000 in her pocket, she makes her way to Gilded Creek Goat Farm for quite possibly her easiest job yet. Or so she thinks. Besides being nibbled on by a curious (or potentially murderous) goat and falling face-first into a pool of mud, Gretchen is shocked to learn that the farm really is haunted by a ghost named Everett. And she can speak to him. What’s even more shocking is that the owner of the farm, Charlie Waybill, is cursed. According to Everett, if Charlie sells the farm, then he will die and forever haunt the property. In this hilarious and heartfelt enemies-to-lovers story, sometimes the scariest thing in life is confronting your past and opening yourself up to love and friendship – even if that means facing a curse. Or a career change.

FOR TEENS:

“Rebellion 1776” by Laurie Halse Anderson

After losing her mother and siblings to smallpox, 13-year-old Elsbeth Culpepper and her father have started a new life in Boston just in time to be caught up in the British siege against the Patriots fighting for independence. Elsbeth works as a maid, first for a Loyalist judge, then for the boisterous Pike family. Through an eventful summer, Elsbeth’s father goes missing, her best friend goes to war, residents of Boston undergo smallpox inoculation, and the United States declares its independence. Through illness and revolution, Elsbeth must survive on her own, find her father, and protect those she cares about. Middle school-age readers should find it easy to connect with down-to-earth Elsbeth, who is feisty and self-determined while still fitting in believably as a girl of her era. Prepare for heartstrings tugged and tears shed as witness to the all-too-familiar trajectory of an epidemic. “Rebellion 1776” masterfully immerses the reader into the day-to-day life of a common person in a much younger but not entirely unfamiliar version of our United States.

– Kylie Peters, Adult & Teen Services Librarian

Explore parks around St. Charles this summer Play Park

Dates

By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske | Photos provided by St. Charles Park District

Pop over to a park and explore a new-to-you playground as the St. Charles Park District invites everyone to check out Park Play Dates.

Saturdays are always more fun when there are swings, slides and monkey bars. The St. Charles Park District staff is hosting Park Play Dates on select dates to encourage families to get out and explore local playgrounds.

“We wanted families to get out and go play in the parks, see our town,” explained Kara GuizzettiReif, recreation supervisor for the St. Charles Park District.

Guizzetti-Reif said the idea for Park Play Dates around the community came from a conversation

with her fellow team members at the St. Charles Park District as well as inspiration from her own family.

“With my own children, we had this tradition that the last week before school started, we had park day where they picked three or four different parks and we’d map them out. For each visit there was a timer set with just enough time to explore before hopping back in the car to the next one,” Guizzetti-Reif said. “We packed snacks – lunch, too. It was something we really looked forward to.”

Taking a page from her family’s favorite custom, she launched the concept last year and it has quickly blossomed into a fun way for families

to explore neighborhood playgrounds and make connections. The summer Park Play Dates are Saturdays, July 12, July 26, Aug. 9 and Aug. 23 from 10:30-11:30 a.m.

Preschool instructor Brandon Schaden, a father of three, is lending his time to host the Park Play Dates. Armed with extras like bubbles, chalk and other small activities, Schaden serves as the host for the Park Play Dates.

“Parents really love it because it’s free, local and easy to add to the calendar,” Schaden said. The July 12 Park Play Date is part of the state-

wide celebration of Unplug Illinois Day, encouraging families to disconnect from their electronic devices. To celebrate, the St. Charles Park District is hosting Park Play Dates at three locations: Langum Park, Delnor Woods Park and Fox Chase Park.

“Each park has different amenities. It’s great to see what’s out there and how we can have our own adventures,” Guizzetti-Reif said.

And to make UnPlug Illinois Day even sweeter, park district staff will have popsicles for participants, while supplies last. It’s the perfect way to embrace some family time together and enjoy being in the outdoors.

At the Park Play Dates the fun isn’t just for the young ones. Guizzetti-Reif said these programs provide an opportunity for the “grown ups” to mingle too.

“It’s a great opportunity for connections,” Guizzetti-Reif said. “I’m all for helping others to find their tribe.”

familiar faces and we always see new faces. It’s such a great way to showcase all the difference parks we have available.”

Additional dates for the fall will be announced later this summer as well. Last year one of the Park Play Dates took place after a snow fall and Schaden said the children loved playing in the park with the snow.

And be sure to mark the calendar for the return of everyone’s favorite master of silly songs, musician Jim Gill performing at 5 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 28 at Pottawatomie Park. The free concert is perfect family entertainment that will have everyone on their feet dancing along. Pack a picnic and enjoy the lively music, wander downtown St. Charles for dinner or a favorite dessert and St. Charles Community Unit School District 303 students won’t have to worry about saying up a little later as there’s no class Friday, Aug. 29.

Frog Bog Zero-Depth Entry Activity Pool

Dragonfly Den Toddler Pool

Salamander Slides Sport Spot

Turtle Creek Lazy River

Crayfish Canal

w/Drop Slides, Lap Lanes & Diving Boards

Newly Renovated! Splash Park

Sand/Water Play Area Sand Volleyball Court

The Dive Concessions Family Restrooms

Sundays All Summer Float Nights

Mon-Thu All Summer

July 9

Lazy

Moana Night

July 11 Bluey Night

July 12

Ollie’s Birthday Bash July 17

July 19 Splash & Dash Youth Race

July 20

Sundae Sunday

July 23 Superhero Night

July 25

August 7

Christmas in July

Shadow a Lifeguard

August 8 Biggest Splash Contest August 8

12

Geneva

Home Works

Maximize your home's comfort and aesthetic with furnishings

By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske

Couches where the families can lounge together on a cozy movie night, or a dining room table big enough to welcome everyone on a special occasion. Finding comfort and style for each family is at the heart of Geneva Home Works, a family-owned furniture business.

“As a family business, we can give individual attention,” said Marie McDonnell, sales and design for Geneva Home Works. “It’s not just a purchase, we are here for the individuals and we want to get it right. If you can’t find it on the floor, we can search our resources, vendors to find it.”

Celebrating the company’s 35th anniversary is more than the work of two generations of the family. It represents three decades of serving customers, helping them find the pieces that adorn their home and welcome their families and guests.

Part of the secret is the company’s ability to be selective when it comes to finding pieces for its showroom. It isn’t about cookie-cutter pieces, rather items that can stand out for their look and comfort.

“We can handpick the items. That sets us apart,” McDonnell said.

Their sales and design team can take time to work with clients, from creating custom pieces to helping with room design, fabric selection and even offering paint color suggestions.

The latest trends are using warm colors, creating a more modern, cleaner look with furnishings, McDonnell said.

“The grays are warming up, the blues too and we are seeing more wood tones,” she added.

Geneva Home Works carries furnishings for living rooms, dining rooms and bedrooms.

“We really get to know our customers and understand what they need, how they live in their home,” said Geneva Home Works Manager Kate Radman.

With the trend to work at home, Radman said they often have customers looking for a desk for a home office or a work space in the home. Some customers have opted to transform a formal dining room into a work space. The design team can help make that look natural and functional.

“Writing desks that can fit in small spaces for a home office can also look decorative too,” Radman said.

Located along the busy Roosevelt Road corridor, one block east of Kirk Road, Geneva Home Works has

built a strong reputation for a varied selection and top customer service, welcoming repeat customers, and generations of families decorating their homes here in Kane and DuPage counties. With delivery service throughout northern Illinois as well as southern Wisconsin and western Michigan, the team at Geneva Home Works has helped customers with their main residence and summer cottages, too.

“Word of mouth is one of our strongest advertisements,” McDonnell said.

Along with understanding customers, the team at Geneva Home Works takes the time to know its vendors, producing quality, craftsmanship furnishings in America. McDonnell said the team at Geneva Home Works takes pride in selecting quality pieces and providing value at good prices too.

“We’ve been through good times and a few recessions too. We’re proud that we’re still here and still strong,” McDonnell said.

GENEVA HOME WORKS

33W622 Roosevelt Road, West Chicago

630-208-0040

www.genevahomeworksfurniture.com

Photos provided by Geneva Home Works

GIA MIA

13 N. Third St., Geneva | 630-405-5544 31 S. First St., St. Charles | 630-415-0770 www.giamiapizzabar.com

Gia Mia provides chef-driven, farm-to-fork concepts such as Neapolitanstyle wood-fired pizzas, creative small plates, fresh pastas, and much more. Along with our crafted cocktails, we feature craft beers and exclusive wines carefully selected to complement any meal. Enjoy al fresco dining on our open-air patio with a lovely pergola at our Geneva location, or an inviting covered patio and piazza at our St. Charles location. Gia Mia also offers Wine on Wednesdays (WOW); enjoy half-off all wines listed by the bottle on our menu every Wednesday. With offers such as our $13 lunch special, half-price pizza Mondays, and Wine on Wednesdays, it's the perfect time to enjoy the summer weather with family and friends.

Livia Italian Eatery

207 S. Third St., Geneva 630-402-6444 | www.liviaitalianeatery.com

Ella’s Italian Pub

407 S. Third St., Geneva 630-457-1115 | www.ellasitalianpub.com

This summer, experience BG Hospitality Group's newest restaurant concept: Ella's Italian Pub. Ella’s is located in the heart of Geneva’s historic shopping district, at the corner of Fulton and Third Street. After your first visit, Ella's will soon become your favorite spot to dine and unwind. Our family-friendly dining experience starts with our signature Roman-style pizzas made from handcrafted dough, accented by creative Italian pub-style street food offerings, along with an extensive wine list and crafted cocktails, making it the perfect destination for any occasion. Be sure to stop by and try our off-the-menu specials: Happy Hour on weekdays from 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the bar and lounge area, or enjoy “Sundays in Rome" with halfprice pizzas for carryout or dine-in all day Sunday. Ella’s also offers our signature Wine on Wednesdays (WOW); enjoy half-off all wines listed by the bottle on our menu every Wednesday.Visit our website for more. What makes us different? It's how we "dough it!”

Livia Italian Eatery features a broad Northern Italian-inspired menu, offering dishes that range from pastas and fresh greens to crowd favorites like our New Zealand lamb chops. Along with other specialty entrées, each dish stays true to our farm-to-fresh motto. Our open-air patio, located in the heart of Geneva, has a sunken-in design that allows for a more private outdoor dining experience, along with a ramp for easy access. Livia also offers Wine on Wednesdays (WOW); enjoy half-off all wines listed by the bottle on our menu every Wednesday. Whether you wind down on Wednesdays wine, enjoy happy hour from 3-6 p.m. every weekday, or end the week with brunch offered on Saturdays and Sundays, a summer outing at Livia is the perfect staycation oasis.

moto imoto

181 S. First St., St. Charles 630-425-0990 | www.motoimoto.com

moto imōto is a unique blend of "East meets West" Pan-Asian culinary experiences. Our Asian street-food inspired menu offers shareable plates, signature sushi rolls, and chefdesigned farm-fresh dishes that elevate and heighten the overall guest dining experience. Our open-air wraparound patio provides a comfortable dining experience while being right in the heart of St. Charles. Explore Half-Price Sushi Tuesdays (available all day Tuesday for dine-in or carryout), or wind down at our bar, lounge area, or patio with our happy hour offered every weekday from 3-6 p.m. Don't forget to get your “WOW” on with Wine on Wednesdays, offering half-off all bottled wines and any of our bottled sake selections, or stop by for lunch offered daily and enjoy our $14 lunch combos and our $15 Bento Lunch Box specials. Our fresh and innovative dining experience is sure to become a new personal favorite and a welcome escape from the everyday routine.

Wahlburgers

825 S. Randall Road, St. Charles 331-235-5200 | www.wahlburgers.com/stcharles

Wahlburgers is a casual family friendly restaurant and bar that features a large patio with a variety of outdoor seating options including cozy spots around the firepit. Daily drink specials pair perfectly with patio dining, featuring $3 domestic drafts, $4 Wahlbrewski, $5 margaritas and cosmopolitans, $7 Absolut mixers, $8 Bloody Marys, and select half-price wine bottles. Guests can also take advantage of photo ops and view Donnie Wahlberg's Hollywood memorabilia throughout the restaurant. Enjoy items from the creatively crafted menu including fried pickles, all beef burgers, and seasonal dishes for the complete experience.

El Molcajete

227 S. Third St., Second Floor of The BerryHouse, Geneva 630-457-5348 | www.elmolcajetegeneva.com

Start your dining fiesta with a view of downtown Geneva while relaxing on our patio, located on the second floor of the BerryHouse. Our menu features authentic burritos, fajitas, tacos, enchiladas, quesadillas and house specialties. Try our famous jalapeño margarita, or select from over 10 varieties of handcrafted margaritas –they're all made with fresh fruit, fresh lime juice and organic agave nectar. You can also choose from our large variety of Mexican beers as well as sangrias and mojitos; you're sure to find something to tempt your taste buds! See our website and Facebook for monthly specials and guacamole of the day.

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 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 charbroiled steaks, juicy prime rib and a wide variety of gourmet burgers, salads, sandwiches, 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!

1650 W. Main St., St.Charles | 630-549-0514

Alexander’s Cafe is named in honor of Alexander the Great, a king of Macedonia in Northern Greece, where the restaurant owners are from. Alexander’s serves breakfast and lunch 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. – all home-cooked meals are made fresh on the premises by the chef. All of the soups, sauces, gravies and dressings are made fresh on-site. Alexander’s also features bloody marys and mimosas!

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 a newly designed outdoor patio. Don't miss live music every night Tuesday through Sunday.

St. Charles Rookies All-American Pub & Grill

2486 Bushwood Dr., Elgin | 847-551-9006

1996 S. Kirk Road, Geneva | 630-402-0468

12220 Princeton Dr., Huntley | 847-669-8600

1360 Lake St., Roselle | 847-278-1666

1545 W. Main St., St. Charles | 630-513-0681

72 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake | 815-893-2030 www.rookiespub.com

Geneva

Rookies All-American Pub & Grill has seven locations across Northern Illinois with it’s newest location now open in Crystal Lake. The menu features a variety of pub food and American favorites including their famous wings, burgers, sandwiches and specialty pizzas. Check out their house drinks – Bob’s Mai Tai has been a house specialty since 1975 – as well as house wines by Robert Mondavi, by the glass or by the bottle. The restaurant regularly hosts special events, such as Cruise Nights from June through September at Elgin and St. Charles locations and Atomic Bingo (Tuesdays in Elgin and Geneva, Wednesdays in St. Charles). A huge patio and bar with a live music stage is open in Geneva Rookies at the ice rink!

Stockholm’s

306 W. State St. , Geneva 630-208-7070 | www.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 its expansive menu of freshly prepared meals using only the highest quality ingredients. You can also enjoy its handcrafted beers, brewed in an Old World tradition, naturally conditioned and unfiltered, from the Tri-Cities’ oldest brewery.

The answer appears to be about six minutes.

At least, that's what I read online.

For those of us – like me – who are longstanding gum chewers, there has also been a longer standing problem with chewing gum. While my wife might tell you it's the annoying smacking sound she claims I make, the problem actually is flavor. Sometimes, of course, the problem is merely deciding which flavor of gum best fits both our mood and our need.

Playing softball or some other sport in which expectorating is an option? Bubble gum fits the bill (and to be specific, we're talking about Big League Chew or Bubble Tape.)

Gum Chewing fromWisdom

There's a lesson to be found in short-term flavor and sticking to a long-term course

But should one find oneself in a more civilized environment, or one in which the state of your breath may matter, like on an airliner or in an office, perhaps? Mint chewing gum claims the win.

However, no matter your chew of choice, the real problem for us gum chewers almost always comes down to how long the flavor of the gum we choose may last, until we are left with a nondescript lump of malleable xanthan, whose flavor may best be described as "gray."

Not that long ago, the crew from Thrillist took on the task of answering the question of how long the flavor of various brands of gum last. Most traditional brands of chewing gum lasted about two to three minutes before their flavor faded. But some kinds of gum more than doubled the typical flavor life expectancy.

Incidentally, the winner was Eclipse Winterfrost Car Cup edition chewing gum, which clocked in at 6:33.

And in last place? Bubble Tape, at 1:33.

Sadly, that comes as no surprise, as bubble gum has increasingly left me disappointed.

Please don't misunderstand: The smell and vaguely mixed fruit flavor of a classic pink piece of bubble gum will almost always transport me to pleasant places of the past. Depending on the brand, those may be memories of sitting on an aluminum bench, blowing bubbles behind a chainlink fence at a ball diamond, cracking bawdy jokes with teammates while waiting to take the field. Or they may involve an even younger me sitting under a shade tree on the first few days of summer break,

reading the latest comic books acquired from White Hen Pantry. But as a much older man, the very limited flavor payoff makes it harder to justify the attention required to time the chewing just right, before the pleasant memories are wiped away by an end flavor more akin to chalk.

However, as a dad, never has that classic and short-lived flavor been more appreciated than in the invention of bubble gum-flavored medicine. That appreciation was cemented recently when a child's cough and sniffly nose morphed into a fever, and then into a persistent ear ache, producing the parental heart-grabbing whimpers and sobs of authentic, unrelenting childhood pain.

A trip to the doctor confirmed the diagnosis of an ear infection and the predictable cure: A bottle of liquid antibiotics.

Before she left with her mom to see the doctor, the kid asked all the questions you'd expect: Will it hurt? What will they do? Will I get medicine?

And that led into the final question: OK, but what will it taste like?

"Bubble gum," I said, reflexively, without taking a moment to ponder.

So, for the next couple hours, I anxiously awaited their return, understanding fully that if I had guessed wrong, this one would not let me forget. More importantly, though, it would complicate the next important conversation: The one in which the parent must patiently explain to the child that, although they feel better now, they must finish all the medicine, or they risk having the infection reoccur.

It's a lesson learned from personal experience, traced back to an autumn in college in which I allowed an acute case of bronchitis to nearly send me to the hospital – not once, but twice – simply because I assumed the pharmacist had dispensed too many of the uncomfortable-to-swallow antibiotic horse pills and I was feeling better, so...

Through the years, that story has proven useful for a variety of reasons. For starters, it has helped to frighten our kids into finishing their courses of medication, no matter how they may feel or how it may taste. But it has also proven to be a solid illustration when dealing more generally with helping the young ones learn – and this older one too often relearn – the pitfalls of early success.

For me, that is often exposed in the summer, when persistent bare spots in my yard mock me for failing to properly hydrate the yard at the onset of the new season's heat because the "new grass was doing fine."

For the kids, it may look like pushing past the pain that accompanies additional training to increase strength and flexibility to advance in their dance programs. Or developing the callouses needed to master the guitar. Or putting in the hours of study needed to ace a subject they thought would be much easier.

But time and again, my life – and now, theirs – has shown whatever the goal, the complacency that comes from "good enough" will only set us up for an all-tooeasy shortfall the moment adversity hits and that initial great taste fades to gray.

Hopefully, it lasts a little bit beyond six minutes.

n Jonathan Bilyk writes about the triumphs and travails of being a modern-day dad who legitimately enjoys time with his family, while tolerating a dog that seems to adore him. He also doesn’t really like the moniker “Superdad” because it makes it sound like he wants to wear his undergarments on the outside of his pants. (Also,the cape remains on back order.)

YOU’RE DRIVING

OF THE MONTH

Artist Carrie Molloy

The Tri-Cities are booming with arts and artists — perhaps nowhere more vibrantly than Batavia’s Water Street Studios, which hosts events, galleries and up to 25 artists in residence. Each month, Kane County Magazine and Water Street Studios are partnering to highlight artists and their work.

Ceramics artist Carrie Molloy became a clay maker in September of 2023 after eight months participating in a ceramics class at Water Street Studios. Molloy is somewhat new to the Batavia area but has found a warm and wonderful welcome at the studio and in the community. “I was so happy to find such a lovely, welcoming city, with all the beautiful small businesses, the Boardwalk Shops, and such a thriving art community,” says Molloy. “The ceramics community at Water Street was instantly welcoming, and now I honestly consider it my second home, and have made friends that are now family.”

In her early beginnings, Molloy’s main artistic media were music and singing. Even now, Molloy would say music is her “primary art.” “I have sung since I was a child, and my college degrees are in music,” she says. “But I have almost always had a second creative outlet. In 2016 I took up photography and loved it. Then when I moved to Batavia, I gifted myself a ceramics class and never looked back. The photography definitely assists in the ceramics. I didn’t begin selling my work until a little more than a year ago.”

Molloy enjoys the support for artists she sees often throughout the Batavia community. “I love how the small businesses in the area support artists,” she says. “The local libraries, cafes, and shops all have beautiful installations of art. And of course, there is nothing that compares to the exhibits in the gallery at Water Street every month. The Member Shows are definitely my favorite,

with such a wide variety of artistic mediums and styles.”

In fact, in the May Member Show at Water Street, Molloy had a wavy bowl on display, showcasing one of her most recent projects. “I felt like I was in a bit of a rut when it came to throwing pottery on the wheel-cylinders and bowls quickly lose their excitement,” she says. “After many tests, of both form and color, I shaped and manipulated a bowl that started as a wheel-thrown piece. The glaze tests allowed me to study how different layering techniques can create movement and flow, and it all came together in a lovely wavy bowl. I feel like this piece allowed me to step out of my safe zone and create something more organic and beautiful.”

To Molloy, art is an essential part of the community and the human condition. “Art has the power to educate, inspire, and connect people in ways that few other things can,” she says. “It can bring people together to create a sense of community and shared experience. It promotes critical thinking and encourages people to consider different perspectives. Art can promote empathy, understanding, and be a catalyst for social change. Art, in all of its forms, is a necessary and essential part of what makes each of us a unique human.”

Find her work at GROW in Geneva, and follow Molloy's Instagram for upcoming events, sales and website updates. @meanderingstreamceramics, and meanderingstreamceramics.com

About the artist

Carrie Molloy is the face behind Meandering Stream Ceramics. She took her first pottery class in January 2023 at Water Street Studios and has been hooked ever since. She primarily creates functional ware such as mugs, bowls and pots with touches of nature. "I love the vibrant and varied color palette of nature, and I’m inspired by the beauty of Northern Michigan where I grew up, and the rugged scenery of my husband’s home in Newfoundland, Canada," she said. Carrie teaches singing as her day job. She lives in Batavia with her husband Mike and rescue Labrador, Bailey. Carrie and Mike have two adult children.

For more information on the artist of the month, head to waterstreetstudios. org or the organization’s social media pages.

SUMMER FUN

& FIREWORKS

Keep your pets safe during seasonal activities & at local events

As summer heats up, so do the events that bring us all together – local sports games, concerts in the park, backyard barbecues and my favorite, the Fourth of July. These favorites create lasting memories for us, but they can be confusing, overwhelming or even dangerous for our pets.

Each year, veterinarians treat avoidable injuries that occur when pets are caught up in the excitement or the chaos of summer fun. Here are some tips to keep your furry companions safe and stress-free during the busiest months of the year.

GAME DAY AND OUTDOOR EVENT SAFETY

Whether you're supporting the local baseball team or enjoying an outdoor movie night, these pet safety strategies are essential:

• Stay hydrated: Bring a collapsible water bowl and offer fresh water often. Dehydration can sneak up quickly, especially on hot days. Remember Pets need more water than we think, and they cannot speak up when they feel dehydrated.

• Paw protection: Asphalt and sidewalks can become blistering hot. If you can’t comfortably hold your hand on the surface for more than five seconds, it’s too hot for your pet’s paws. Please keep this in mind when walking on concrete or asphalt.

• Monitor for stress: Loud noises, crowds and high activity levels can overwhelm pets. Watch for signs of anxiety like panting, drooling, shaking or trying to hide. If your pet suffers from anxiety, be sure to ask your veterinarian for advice or medications to help relieve their anxious feelings.

• Secure identification: Make sure your pet’s collar fits snugly and ID tags are legible. Microchips should have up-to-date contact information in case your pet gets separated from you. GPS tags and locators are also useful to have on collars, should your pet escape. Remember, they only work when they are put on before your pet escapes.

FOOD AND FESTIVITY PRECAUTIONS

Outdoor parties, food trucks and cookouts bring temptation and dangerous risks:

• Skip the table scraps: Many common cookout foods — onions, garlic, grapes, chocolate, alcohol and artificial sweeteners — are toxic to pets. Fatty or spicy foods can cause gastrointestinal upset, colitis and/or pancreatitis.

• Bone dangers: Discarded bones can cause serious injuries if swallowed. Always dispose of them securely and out of reach of your pet. Remember: unless your garbage container can lock, don’t assume your pet cannot get into it for a midnight snack of their own.

• Foreign body dangers: Always be on the lookout for potential foreign bodies that can be ingested. Sticks, trash and food that has fallen on the ground are all potential dangers for our pets. Be sure to keep the lids on trash bins.

• Grill zone safety: Pets love to investigate, but hot grills, coals and lighter fluid do not mix with pets and pose burn and ingestion hazards. Create a pet-free zone around cooking areas, especially open fire areas.

FOURTH OF JULY: A PET'S NIGHTMARE

While fireworks are a Fourth of July tradition for us, they’re terrifying for many pets. In fact, many pets go missing on July 4 and July 5 each year.

• Safe and sound indoors: Keep pets inside during fireworks. Choose a quiet room, close the windows and curtains, and turn on background noise like music or the television.

• Calming tools: If your pet has a history of anxiety, speak with your veterinarian ahead of time about calming supplements, anxiety wraps or prescription medications.

• Avoid fireworks events: Even pets that normally do well in crowd can panic and bolt at the sound of explosions. My advice: leave them at home.

• Microchip check: Make sure your pet's microchip is registered and the contact info is current, just in case. Double check your GPS locator’s app, if you have one on your pet. If you do not have one, purchase one; they are inexpensive and easy to attach to your pet’s collars with special adapters.

TRAVEL AND BOARDING TIPS

Whether you’re heading out for a festival, a family reunion or a long weekend trip, consider these travel tips:

• Vet prep: Ensure your pet is up to date on vaccines, flea/tick prevention and any needed medications. Keep a copy of vaccination and medical records handy if you're boarding or traveling with your pet.

• Medications: If your pet takes medications, do not wait until the last minute to ensure you have enough medications for the boarding or traveling time. Veterinary hospitals cannot refill medications from patients that have not been seen before, and not all veterinary hospitals carry all medications. Have any medications refilled three to four days prior to you leaving on the trip.

• Smart boarding choices: Tour boarding facilities in advance, check for emergency protocols and provide detailed care instructions.

• Pet first aid kit: If you’re going off the grid — such as camping or hiking — bring along a basic pet first aid kit and know where the nearest emergency veterinary clinic is located. Make sure you know their hours and directions from where you will be hiking and camping.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Summer is a time for celebration, and our pets can absolutely be a part of that joy, with the right planning. A little precaution goes a long way in preventing accidents, injuries and stress. By keeping some of these tips at the top of your mind, you can help ensure that the only memories made this summer are happy ones.

If you ever have questions about your pet’s safety or behavior around seasonal events, don’t hesitate to consult with your veterinarian. We’re here to help your pets enjoy the summer right alongside you.

Dr. Aaron M. Jackson is a board-certified veterinary surgeon with over 20 years of experience in advanced surgical care for pets. He earned his Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine from the University of Illinois in 1998, followed by specialized training in small animal surgery. In 2006, he achieved board certification in the specialty of Small Animal Surgery. Jackson has held leadership roles at Chicago’s largest veterinary specialty center, including chief surgeon and medical director. His expertise, skill and compassion provide pet owners with confidence in their pets’ surgical care. Submit suggestions and questions for future article topics via email at info@mvss.vet.

Board Certified Veterinary Surgeon Bringing Expert, Compassionate Care to your Primary Care Veterinary Clinic

Midwest Veterinary Surgical Services aims to provide compassionate, expert surgical care for pets right at your local veterinary clinic. Our mission is to make advanced procedures affordable and convenient by eliminating the need to visit a distant specialty facility. Your pets deserve top-notch medical care, and we are here to provide it in the comfort of your home clinic.

Helping Make Sausage (a.k.a. legislation)

My Advisor & Planner shares input about financial issues on Capitol Hill

In May, I was on Capitol Hill along with teammate Michael Holevas (last year with teammate Sharon Piet) meeting with members of Congress. In between meetings, I couldn’t help but think about the comparison oft made between making legislation and making sausage.

When I was a kid, my father allowed me to ride in the semi with owneroperator Ted Lipke as he hauled that week’s load of hogs from our farm to the Oscar Mayer plant in Madison, Wisconsin, and the experience was eye opening.

We were on the Hill while the “One Big Beautiful Bill” was being negotiated, and I must admit there are some comparisons to making sausage that hold up. Bottom line, one really doesn’t want to see either.

Tom McCartney and Michael Holevas of My Advisor & Planner are shown at a meeting on Capitol Hill in May 2025.

I currently have the privilege of serving on the Board of Directors of the Financial Services Institute, which is the largest trade group in our industry. The Financial Services Institute (FSI) has a clear mission to ensure all individuals have access to competent and affordable financial advice, products and services delivered by a growing network of independent financial advisors and independent financial services firms. Our most recent focus while on Capitol Hill included the following requests:

• Support for the Financial Exploitation Prevention Act

• Support for the Modern Worker Empowerment Act

• Request to extend and expand 199A pass-through

• Restore tax deductibility of advisory fees

Due to space constraints, a thorough discussion of each of the topics above is not possible, but it is worth your time to learn more about these important issues by visiting www.financialservices.org/advocacy. It is also important to recognize the following for their time and engagement:

• Alex Kukura, legislative correspondent to Sen. Todd Young (R-IN)

• Michelle Follett, legislative correspondent to Sen. Dick Durbin (D-IL)

• Kaelee Germain, legislative correspondent to Sen. Tammy Duckworth (D-IL)

• Hunter Miller, deputy chief of staff to Rep. Marlin Stutzman (R-IN)

• Andrew Lowenthal, legislative director to Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL)

• Rep. Bill Foster (D-IL) and Cody Hollerich, senior policy advisor

• Brandon DiFulvio, legislative assistant to Rep. Robin Kelly (D-IL)

If you would like to share your political thoughts and/or priorities with your elected officials but have felt uncomfortable doing so, please don’t be deterred. We found both sides of the aisle welcomed polite and professional engagement, even if a point might be contrary to their position.

I’d like to leave you with this reflection. The most impactful professional advisors I’ve experienced deliver beyond expectations. Their depth and dedication to their craft is such that they bring a whole new level of insight to their clients and the work they do for them.

If your financial advisor is stuck on simple asset allocation and an occasional portfolio review, you may be missing out. For help assuring your lifestyle and legacy, give our team a call!

This material is intended for informational purposes only, does not constitute a recommendation, and should not be construed as investment, legal, or tax advice and is not intended to replace the advice of a qualified attorney, tax advisor, or plan provider. The information has been obtained from sources considered to be reliable, but we do not guarantee that the foregoing material is accurate or complete. Any opinions are those of Tom McCartney and not necessarily those of Raymond James. Expressions of opinion are as of this date and are subject to change without notice.

Tom McCartney (third from left) is the founding principal of My Advisor & Planner and a wealth manager, RJFS. Pictured left to right with his team are Samantha Meyer, Client Service Associate; Michael Holevas CFA, Wealth Manager; and Co-founder and Wealth Manager Sharon Piet. 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. Tom and his team are located at 107 S. 2nd St., Geneva, IL 60134. 630-457-4068

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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.