Season of style
Find your best holiday look, with help from local experts PAGE 45 DECEMBER
2014
CUDDLE UP FOR
Christmas
with a furry friend from a local shelter PAGE 13
OH, CHRISTMAS TREE!
Find the perfect place to pick your family tree! PAGE 22
Minimally Invasive Herniated Disc Surgery Less Painful Traditional surgery for a herniated disc involves cutting through muscle, a hospital stay, a lengthy recovery, more pain, and scarring. But a herniated disc can be removed microscopically, which means a minimal incision done in an outpatient setting, shorter recovery, less pain, and very little scarring. Herniated discs are painful. Sufferers report everything from an inability to sleep, lie down, or sit, to excruciating leg, buttock, and lower back pain. Traditional surgery can be discouraging: pain, tissue disruption, scarring, and the dreaded hospital stay. But improved minimally invasive techniques can now be used to remove a herniated disc microscopically, relieving pain and saving patients a world of grief. Dr. Craig A. Popp and FVO’s new physician, Dr. Max Berdichevsky, orthopedic spine surgeons at Fox Valley Orthopedics, are experts in microdiscectomy – a technique used to repair herniated discs. “Many of my patients report that the pain is gone as soon as they awaken post-surgery,” says Dr. Popp. “And months later, the only evidence of surgery is a very tiny, faint, scar, measuring not more than half an inch long.”
Microdiscectomy is usually considered for patients with problems resulting from nerve root compression or herniated discs of the lower back. The most common symptom is severe pain radiating from the back to the buttocks or leg, and in some cases down into the foot. “Normally, microdiscectomy is performed when other noninvasive treatments such as heat, ice, pain and nerve pain medications, narcotics, muscle relaxers, cortisone injections, physical therapy, traction, ultrasound, electrical stimulation, or short-term bracing have failed to reduce the pain,” says Dr. Popp. Microdiscectomy to repair a herniated disc is performed through a small incision. Once the muscles are gently separated, a tubular like retractor is inserted into the spine to protect muscle. A magnifying microscope is used to locate its precise location, and the ruptured portion of the disk is removed. The pressure on a nerve root or the spinal cord is relieved…and so is the pain.
For more information call 630-584-1400 or go to FVORTHO.COM to make an appointment for a consultation with Dr. Popp or Dr. Berdichevsky.
Another advantage is the outpatient setting rather than a hospital stay. This means returning to work, play, and one’s normal routine more quickly. And since there is less blood loss and minimal tissue damage in minimally invasive microdiscectomy, there is often less recuperative pain, so the need for pain medication is minimized.
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Spine Specialist Is What You Need.
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GO TO FVORTHO.COM TO MAKE APPOINTMENT NOW! | (630) 584-1400 | GENEVA • ELGIN
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Christmas at The Berry House Shops 227 S. Third St • Geneva, Illinois 60134 • www.theberryhouseshops.com Our We Roast ee! ff o C Own of Tea
Geneva
Antique Market
Varieties Over 200 Coffee rieties of Va 0 Over 10
In the Berry House Downstairs
November 16th - December 31st Come see
CHRISTMAS AT GRANDMA’S
Verve on Third
Holiday Teas & Coffees Gift Sets, 6 or 12 Pack Samplers
Whimsical, Colorful, and Eclectic
630-845-3255 www.coffeedropshop.com
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The largest selection of vintage Christmas items in the Midwest!
Art
630-208-1150
Geneva Wine Cellars and Tasting Room Cozy cellar, beautiful patio, live music often, friendly people always. Wine by the bottle, glass or case. Wine shop and wine bar. Gift Certificates and Gift Baskets Available.
www.genevacatholicshop.com
630-318-8033
Gourmet English Toffee makes for a Great Holiday Gift!
We Cater and Deliver!
227 S. Third St. (The Berry House) Geneva IL 60134 • 630-232-8888 www.genevawinecellars.com
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Come Celebrate With Us!
Photo and Document Restoration Slide and Negative Scanning
All menu margaritas and Mexican beers 1/2 price from November 14 to December 14 Visit our Web site for our menu, hours and catering.
Photo Retouch and Restoration Secure Local Experienced www.mcgleamstudios.com 630-587-5808
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7 INSIDE
WINTER WANDERLAND Head to Geneva’s Christmas Walk, for a hometown holiday festival that will raise your spirits.
HOME, FOR THE HOLIDAYS
HEALTH & WELLNESS
FASHION & BEAUTY
10 ELECTRIC AVENUE
28 MELANCHOLY HOLIDAY
40 ‘TIS THE SEASON
Across our communities, the Holiday Light Shows are spectacular, from public light festivals to residential displays.
For some, Christmas isn’t the merriest season of the year.
Style it up this season with help from fashion expert Leanne Conlon, of Lela Boutique in Geneva.
13 CUDDLES FOR CHRISTMAS
32 TWEETING WITH TWITS
45 SPARKLE ALL SEASON
A local pediatrician sounds off on the complications of the Internet and what to help your kids look out for online.
We’ve got the hottest styles from local boutiques for your big nights out on the town.
Unwrap a life of friendship this season, with a furry friend from a local shelter.
20 EDITOR’S CHOICE Ten great gifts to fill stockings this season!
22 GET REAL
34 THE MOST WONDERFUL TIME OF THE YEAR
Cut down a Christmas Tree and build a family tradition everyone will enjoy!
Child therapist Debra Conley shares insight into creating a meaningful holiday season for your children.
24 LASTING IMPRESSION
36 ROSE OF SHARING
Want Christmas to last after the snow flakes are done? Try a live Christmas tree. Landscape expert Gene Grant shows us how.
Meet Woman of Distinction Rose Booe, who leads the volunteer services division for Cadence Health.
26 DESIGNER DILEMMA Choosing the right designer for your home can be a tricky business. Expert Michael Grudecki tells you what to consider.
4 | DECEMBER 2014 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
FAMILY IN FOCUS 38 CHRISTMAS: TIME TO CRANK IT UP Family columnist Michelle Stien sounds off on the not-so-sunny side of the holiday season
OUT & ABOUT 48 CEREMONY OF CAROLS Join the young voices of Vero Voce School of Theater and Performing Arts for an afternoon of seasonal song
51 SOCIAL LIFE Fox Valley Hospice benefitted from an evening of hot planes and fast cars in the hangar at the DuPage Airport.
52 ARTIST SHOWCASE Photographer Mary Solberg of Sugar Grove shares one of her favorite winter photos.
kanecountymagazine.com
HEALTH SERVICES of Geneva (formerly Geneva Nursing and Rehab)
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407 S. Third St., Suite 114 ~ Dodson Place, Geneva
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2014 | 5
The happiest of holidays to you and yours, from all of us at Kane County Magazine. The season is upon us, from the quick cold snap in the last weeks of November, to the full-blown holiday revelry around our communities– from tree lightings to carolers, to Santa visits and retail deals.
After the presents have been opened and the goose has been stuffed, gear up for a New Year’s Eve celebration. We’ve got great fashions for wherever you are headed, along with stylish tips from our resident fashion guru, Leanne Conlon. Whatever your pleasure this holiday season, we hope you spend it with people you love, doing things you enjoy, right here in Kane County. Thanks for reading,
Sherri Dauskurdas Editor
This month in Kane County Magazine, we have our pages chock full of local seasonal splendor! We chat with the experts in holiday lighting, highlight a great selection of gifts from nearby boutiques, and give you the skinny on finding the fullest Christmas tree to grace your living room this season.
General Manager Jim Ringness 630-845-5228 jringness@shawmedia.com Editor Sherri Dauskurdas 630-427-6209 sdauskurdas@shawmedia.com
Looking for a gift that is extra special? We visit Anderson Animal Shelter in South Elgin, where you can give your family a furry friend and a pet a forever home. While you are out and about, stop in Geneva, for a hometown holiday festival that will leave you singing a happy carol all the way until Christmas.
Designer Carol Manderfield 630-427-6253 cmanderfield@shawmedia.com Magazine Coordinator Becca Grosso 630-845-5288 bgrosso@shawmedia.com
on the
COVER
Looking for a truly special holiday gift? Adopt a furry friend from your local shelter! Victoria is just one of the many precious pets available for adoption at Anderson Animal Shelter in South Elgin. Meet some other loving animals on page 13. Photo by LORAE MUNDT
6 | DECEMBER 2014 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
Published by Shaw Media 333 N. Randall Road, Suite 2 St. Charles, IL 60174 Phone: 630-845-5288 www.KaneCountyMagazine.com
Account Managers Sandra Petti 630-313-0251 spetti@shawmedia.com Tricia Walter 630-845-5272 twalter@shawmedia.com Correspondents Michelle Stien, Yvonne Benson, Martha Maddi, Stephanie Kohl, Melissa Riske Photographers Nancy Merkling, Ron McKinney, Joe Perez, Maureen Schwartz, Lorae Mundt Kane County Magazine is available by subscription for $24 a year. If you would like each month’s edition mailed to your home, send payment information and address to Kane County Magazine, 7717 S. Route 31, Crystal Lake, IL 60014 or via email at subscriptions@shawmedia.com. kanecountymagazine.com
Winter Wanderful
It’s December, and that means it is time for the Geneva Christmas Walk Weekend! Highlighted by festive, hometown events and offerings, including carriage rides, visits with Santa, a holiday house walk and all the holiday shopping you could desire, this annual event has become a hallmark tradition in the Tri-Cities:
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 5 ANNUAL USED BOOK SALE 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sat 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Geneva Public Library 127 James St. Event begins Dec.4 from 5-9 p.m. with first admittance numbers distributed at 9 am. Call 630-232-0780. Sat bag of books $8. CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (Sat and Sun too) Antiques on State 422 W. State St. COOKIES AND TEA 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Peaceful Parlour 212 S. Third St. Holiday cookies, herbal tea and a psychic will be on hand to read tea leaves (for small fee). NEAPOLITAN CRÈCHE 11 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sat 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Geneva History Museum 113 S. Third St. Marvel at this breathtaking 18th Century Neapolitan nativity set.
Christmas trees decorated by local charities on display thru Dec. 23. Vote for your favorite tree at www.genevahistorymuseum.org. HOLIDAY DEMOS AND GUESTS Various times Little Traveler 404 S. Third St. Collectible trunk shows and giveaways, children’s Christmas book signings, musical entertainment and free cookies and cocoa in our Atrium cafe on Friday evening.
322 W. State St. Treats and beverages while browsing our gifts and dancewear. Surprise discounts in the store. CHAIR MASSAGE 5 p.m.-9 p.m. Elements Massage 507 S. Third St. Free chair massage on Friday evening. Holiday treats and massage drawings all weekend.
HOLIDAY TREATS 4 p.m.-9 p.m. The Olive Mill 315 James St. Hot apple cider, popcorn with truffle INSURANCE THROUGH AAA oil and a pistachio cake using our WARMING TENT pistachio oil. 5 p.m.-9 p.m. ANNUAL COOKIE WALK S. Third Street on the Courthouse CHRISTMAS CARE PACKAGE 4:30-6:30 p.m. lawn COLLECTION Unitarian Universalist Church Warm up with hand warmers and All day (Sat til 12 p.m.) 102 S. Second St. hot chocolate and pick-up your free Going To My Happy Place Yoga/ (kitty corner from the library) giveaways! World Martial Arts USA Buy empty pastry box ($14) and fill SWEET TREATS 316 Anderson Blvd. Drop off care package items to send it with your choice of homemade 5 p.m.-9 p.m. cookies (while supplies last). to troops overseas this holiday The PrivateBank season. SPECIAL BEER RELEASE 501 W. State St. VISIT WITH SANTA TOYS FOR TOTS 2 p.m.-5 p.m. All About You Dental Care 2631 Williamsburg Ave.
GENEVA GIVING TREES 11 a.m.-9 p.m. and Sat 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Free photo with Santa plus receive a free electric toothbrush with a Geneva History Museum donation to Toys For Tots! 113 S. Third St. kanecountymagazine.com
HOLIDAY TREATS FOR YOURSELF 3 p.m.-5 p.m., Sat and Sun 1-4 p.m. The HoneyBee Wellness Center 115 Campbell St. Massage, energy work, reiki, spinal check, yoga, sound healing for $5 donation to charity.
5 p.m. Penrose Brewing Company 509 Stevens St. Glögg Spiced Stout paired w/ chestnuts roasted on site CHRISTMAS OPEN HOUSE 5 p.m.-8 p.m. Dancer’s Dream
HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS
Stop in for hot cocoa and treats. MORE SWEET TREATS 5 p.m.-9 p.m. C’est le Vie 25 S. Third St. Candy canes and live windows during Christmas Walk.
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2014 | 7
CHRISTMAS FINERY 5 p.m.-9 p.m. The Paper Merchant (sold by Geneva Ace Hardware) 328 S. Third St. Greens, wreaths, roping, birch branches, pine cones, red twig dogwood and outdoor décor for sale. CAROLING ON THE CORNER 6 p.m. Perlman Fine Jewelry State and Third St. Live music by Dickens Carolers. Giveaways, savings and holiday treats. OUTDOOR FASHION SHOW 6 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Jane Pabon Consignment Boutique, 220 S. Third St. The boutique’s front lawn will be dazzling with winter fashion. HOLIDAY FUN 6 p.m.-10 p.m. Third Street Eyecare 500 S. Third St. Jazz music, Santa, elves, s’mores and specials.
CHRISTMAS WALK 6 p.m.-10 p.m. S. Third Street across from Courthouse. Join Santa Lucia and Santa Claus for the Great Tree lighting! Kids can visit with Santa ’til 9:30 p.m.. Chestnuts are roasted and carolers stroll throughout downtown. Shops stay open late serving refreshments. LIVING NATIVITY 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m. Geneva Lutheran Church 301 S. Third St. Young actors present Live Nativity tableau at 6:30, 7:15 and 8:00 p.m.. CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT 7 p.m.-8:30 p.m. St. Mark’s Church Fourth and Franklin streets, Free LIVE’ WINDOWS ON STATE 7 p.m.-9 p.m. Merchants on State Street will showcase “live mannequins” CANDY CANE PULL-GRAHAM’S 6 p.m.-9p.m.
302 S. Third St. Marshmallows Toasting-Country Naturals, 6-9 p.m., 316 Campbell St.
Santa and his Reindeer will be at the bank. Bring cameras! Coloring raffle thru 12/21.
DECADENT DRINKING CHOCOLATE AND FUDGE SAMPLES-KILWINS 6-9 p.m. 407 S. Third St. Roasted Chestnuts-EvenFlow Music and Spirits (302 W. State St.), Geneva Ace Hardware at The Paper Merchant (328 S. Third St.), Geneva Spice House (577 S. 3rd, Ste 100) and Geneva Running Outfitters (221 W. State St.)
SUGAR PLUM FAIRY TEA 11:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Eagle Brook Country Club 2288 Fargo Blvd. State Street Dance Studios celebrates its 4th annual holiday brunch. Ticketed event call 630-232-0444.
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6 BREAKFAST WITH SANTA 9 a.m.-11 a.m. Kyuki-Do Martial Arts of Geneva, Inc. 33W624 Roosevelt Rd. West Chicago Free with donation of a new, unwrapped gift for Toys for Tots. Santa will be here. Light breakfast. SANTA AND REINDEER VISIT 9 a.m.-noon Geneva Bank and Trust 514 W. State St.
Geneva Holiday House
THE FILAS FAMILY HOME An impressive traditional home with an open floor plan, designed by the homeowner that encompasses comfort, togetherness while also maintaining a high efficiency standard.
Tour Tickets Available
Festively decorated by Elizabeth Wray Design (630.232.1975) and Plandscape, Inc. (630.365.2558)
Enjoy the charm and beauty of Geneva at Christmas at the annual Christmas House Tour, sponsored by the Geneva Chamber of Commerce. Five homes, each with their own distinctive character, will open for self-guided tours from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., on December 5 and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. December 6.
THE FULLER FAMILY HOME Built for Noadiah and Lydia Kendall in 1857, elements of Greek revival design are evident in the woodwork, moldings, black/white basket weave floor tile and the column supported front portico.
Each home will shine in holiday adornments presented by local decorators and designers.
THE HOME OF RUSS AND KATHLEEN NEWHOUSE This captivating two-story brick and cedar home is filled with classical quality furniture, exquisite window treatments and beautiful accessories. Visitors will get a special look of the owner’s interior design expertise,
8 | DECEMBER 2014 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
Festively decorated by SG Geneva -formerly Scentimental Gardens (630.232.1303) and All Chocolate Kitchen (630.232.2395)
HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS
CHRISTMAS AROUND THE WORLD 12 p.m. Oscar Swan Country Inn 1800 W. State St. Festive holiday luncheon featuring cuisine and music from Germany. 630.232.0173 Holiday Happy Hour 4 p.m.-7 p.m. Chez Moi 415 W. State St. Take a break for shopping and relax in our cozy atmosphere. Live music with Dennis O’Brien
Festively decorated by The Little Traveler (630.232.4200) THE HOME OF THE SERLUCO FAMILY Built in the late 1920s, this Tudor defines curb appeal. Honoring the original architecture, present owners have made it their own with an addition expanding it to 3 bedrooms and 3 baths. Festively decorated by Heinz Brothers Greenhouse Garden Center (630.377.6288) THE HOME OF THE SIMNER FAMILY Built in 2006, this nearly 4500 squarefoot, four-bedroom home overflows with craftsmanship, including detailed trims and moldings, Brazilian hardwood floors, two full masonry fireplaces and custom cabinetry. Festively decorated by Gatherings by Design (630.761.1964) and Plandscape, Inc. (630.365.2558)
kanecountymagazine.com
WORLD’S LONGEST CANDY CANE ANNIVERSARY AND GINGERBREAD CONTEST WINNER 6 p.m. All Chocolate Kitchen 33 S. Third Street Chef Roby will present a 10-foot long smaller replica of his Guinness World Record-breaking 51 ft. candy cane followed by announcement of Community Gingerbread Contest winner. Candy cane pieces for all who are present.
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 7 FOUR CHURCH STEEPLE WALK 2 p.m.-4:30 p.m. Tickets $12 at participating churches, Geneva Chamber, CIRCA and PayPal. SANTA HOUSE Dec. 5-23 S. Third at James St. Dec. 5...................... 6:30-9:30 p.m. Tue, Thu., Fri. ........ 5:30-7:30 p.m. Sat, Sun .............. 12:30-3:30 p.m. HORSE-DRAWN CARRIAGE RIDES Dec. 6 - 21 Sat and Sun; 1 p.m.-4 p.m. Complimentary rides begin at S. Third and James streets
507 S. 3rd. St. Geneva, IL
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Tickets include a holiday tea and are available for $30. Proceeds are used to decorate Geneva for the holiday season. Purchase at the Geneva Chamber of Commerce, 8 South Third St. or at any of the locations listed below (in Geneva unless indicated otherwise). Call 630.232.6060 to order over the phone. Locations accept cash or check, made payable to Geneva Chamber ANASTAZIA - TREASURES FOR THE HOME, 447 S. Third St. BB INTERIORS, 600 S. First St. CIRCA, 123 S. Third St. CITY OF GENEVA, 22 S. First St. COCOON, 212 S. Third Street COUNTRY NATURALS, 316 Campbell Street HEINZ BROTHERS GREENHOUSE, 2010 E Main St., St. Charles HER ART SHOPPE, 12 S. Third St. ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE FACTORY, 1308 Commons Dr. SG GENEVA (Scentimental Gardens), 428 W. State St. THE LITTLE TRAVELER (china and crystal room), 404 S Third St kanecountymagazine.com
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HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2014 | 9
Electric Avenue
Residents make homes a seasonal spectacle of lights and music By STEPHANIE KOHL
Averaging about 300 to 400 cars per night, Larsen likes to get outside on the weekends to direct traffic and talk with people. He often gets When the Elburn resident, and owner of Elburnbased County Wide Landscaping, purchased his letters and hears from people that love his show, home at 42W891 Beith Road, he knew he wanted and have even made it a holiday tradition of their own. to do a light show of his own. Growing up, it was a holiday tradition for Brian Larsen and his family to go look at holiday lights.
Currently in his eighth season of decorating, Larsen is going big at home.
“If you bring your family out to watch the show, it gets you into the Christmas spirit,” he says.
“Now I’m at max capacity,” Larsen says. “There are no more outlets at my house.”
Those visiting Larsen’s display in Elburn need look no further than nearby Geneva for another display.
His musical light display takes a good three months to set up. He starts in August and opens his show on Thanksgiving night. Larsen’s favorite part of his display is his cosmic ribbons, which he can form into words or pictures that change color. Comprised of more than one million lights, Larsen got started programming by watching YouTube videos of different light shows. Since he uses all LED lights, he says his displays have not affected his electric bill much at all. His show begins around 5 p.m. nightly and runs until about 10:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday and until about 11:30 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights. Make sure to tune to 88.5 FM to hear the accompanying music.
10 | DECEMBER 2014 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
Geneva resident Greg Parcell and family are in the thirteenth season of setting holiday lights to music and nineteenth year of having a large display at their home, 813 Cheever Avenue. The show begins the Sunday after Thanksgiving and runs through New Year’s Eve from 5 p.m. until 10 p.m. nightly. Tune to 88.5 FM for the accompanying music. According to Parcell’s website, www. twasthenightbefore.com, like most families with extensive Christmas displays, his family started small. Over the years, more lights and decorations were added, and now they boast quite an elaborate display. “(Our display has) about 50,000 lights,” Parcell says. “We do use music, mostly feature small displays (like) Santa’s Workshop (and) Polar Bear Café, and a virtual Santa. I’ve actually scaled the display slightly back over the last few years. I want to keep a true Christmas feel for people.”
HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS
In 2004, the Parcell home became an official drop off location for the Marine Corps Toys for Tots and have collected almost 3,000 toys for local children over the years. Since 2007, the family has also handed out “The Polar Express”themed “I Believe Bells” to visitors. “It gets a little harder every year,” Parcell says. “I’m 19 years older than when I started, but it is fun and Christmas is my favorite time of year.” Every year, the family receives emails and letters with comments and compliments on the display. “The best ones are those from parents or grandparents telling us how our display has become part of their family holiday tradition and how much they look forward to coming back again and again,” Parcell wrote on the website. “We hope their children and grandchildren grow up to bring their families year after year.” For those interested in creating a display of their own, Larsen’s advice is to start small, especially when it comes to the computer programming part of it. He also advised to stick with the basics, like mega trees and mini trees, as well as using LED lights. “They’ll last a lot longer and you’re able to do more,” Larsen says.
kanecountymagazine.com
It’s FREE
LOOKING FOR LIGHTS?
It’s not on Sale
For 1.8 miles of Holiday Light Displays, visit the 5th Annual Holiday Lights at Mooseheart. Open from 5 p.m. until 9 p.m. nightly through Dec. 31, admission is just $10 per car. Visit Santa at Mooseheart from 5:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. Dec. 12, Dec. 13, Dec. 14, Dec. 19, Dec. 20 and Dec. 21. Entrance to the display is 2 miles north of I-88 on IL Route 31 and is marked by a flashing yellow warning light.
Purchase any piece of jewelry and select any other piece of jewelry for FREE. Second selection must be of equal or lesser value of purchase.
T H EG O L D M I N E J E W E L E R S
213 W. MAIN STREET • ST. CHARLES
630-377-4653
www.thegoldminejeweler.com kanecountymagazine.com
HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2014 | 11
COME SEE OUR NEW LOOK! We are back at our South Elgin facility and open 7 days a week. Visit or contact us at (847) 697-2880. www.andersonanimalshelter.org
The animals at Anderson Animal Shelter are in their new digs. Our extensive and exciting shelter remodel project is complete and we want you to come and see the incredible transformation. We have improved the living environment for our shelter animals and created a more positive experience for our visitors, volunteers and shelter staff. Providing this new environment that supports our animals’ physical and emotional health will allow them to be adopted more quickly. And the faster our animals are adopted, the more lives we can save!
Cats are housed in cageless cat colonies where they can interact freely with visitors and other cats, or in spacious “kitty condos� with multiple climbing and perching levels, allowing them the freedom to behave like cats.
Dog housing is dog-friendly AND peoplefriendly. Larger kennels will be more comfortable and will reduce stress, leading to an increase in adoptability.
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Cuddles for
CHRISTMAS Give the gift of unconditional love this holiday season, with a shelter pet! Whether you are a dog person or a cat person, there are so many animals in need of good homes this season. We visited Anderson Animal Shelter in South Elgin to meet a few of the furry friends in residence there. -Continued on page 14
TAMMY kanecountymagazine.com
HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2014 | 13
-Continued from page 13 Located at1000 S La Fox St, Anderson Animal Shelter is a nonprofit, 501(c)3, no kill shelter for all breeds of dogs and cats. Anderson Animal Shelter was incorporated in 1966 as the Humane Society of North Central Illinois. In 1971, the current shelter opened its doors on five acres of land located along Rte 31 in South Elgin, IL. In the 1980s the shelter received a generous donation from the Ruth and Ivar Anderson Animal Anticruelty Trust, which prompted a name change to the Anderson Animal Shelter. Over the years, the shelter has transitioned from a traditional community animal shelter to one of the most progressive humane societies of its kind. In 2001, an on-site veterinary clinic was added to provide health care for shelter animals and to provide for the spaying/neutering of all adopted dogs and cats before they leave the shelter. The shelter operates under a low-kill philosophy and with the goal to eliminate the euthanasia of healthy, adoptable animals. Anderson Animal Shelter collaborates with public and private organizations and individuals to shelter, care for and promote the adoption of stray and unwanted companion animals.
ALFRED
Together, they advocate for the compassionate and humane treatment of these animals through direct care, humane education and community outreach programs. Having trouble with Fido? Dog trainers at Anderson are available to help. Classes are offered on a weekly basis. Anderson Animal Shelter offers volunteer opportunies in virtually aspect of animal care and behavior, as well as fundraising events, and community outreach. Anderson also offers opportunties for both court ordered and school/service group community service. u For more information, or to adopt a pet of your very own this holiday season, visit Anderson Animal Shelter! ADDRESS: 1000 S La Fox St, South Elgin, IL 60177 PHONE: (847) 697-2880 ADOPTION HOURS: Monday - Friday Noon-7 p.m. Saturday-Sunday 11a.m.-5p.m. PLEASE NOTE: All adoptions stop 1/2 hour before close of business.
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HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS
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KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2014 | 15
BEE ATTITUDES ANTIQUES Located in a beautiful Victorian home on the corner of Batavia Ave. and Wilson St., we have eight dealers in our shop at the moment ,so there is sure to be something for everyone. Glassware, artwork, lighting fixtures, oriental decor, jewelry, mirrors and silverware. In furniture, we carry various styles, including French, Victorian, and cottage chic. RT. 31 & WILSON ST. | BATAVIA | (630) 761-0813 OPEN MON-SAT 10AM TO 5PM SUNDAY NOON TO 5PM
FOR ALL OCCASIONS Located in an historical home on Wilson St. in Batavia, this shop offers affordable high-styled accessories for women of all ages. You can count on personal service and style advice from the staff to help you find that perfect item. You’ll find a wide selection of designer-inspired purses, jewelry and watches, fashion scarves in
the latest colors and prints as well as a great new selection of winter scarves, gloves, hats and headband warmers. Select from many handbags and totes in the latest styles, including this season’s hottest colors and textures. Come browse our great selection of evening bags for that special holiday party.
Photos by Maureen Schwartz
RT. 31 & WILSON ST. | BATAVIA | (630) 879-1234 (CONNECTED TO BEE ATTITUDES) OPEN MON-SAT 10AM TO 5PM AND SUNDAY NOON TO 5 PM
THE PRETTIEST STAR
Photos by Nancy Merkling
The Prettiest Star was established in 1999 in The Market in St. Charles and relocated to The Berry House in Geneva in 2009. The Prettiest Star offers clothing suitable for work and casual wear, in comfortable knit fabrics along with scarves and accessories. Featured are clothing lines from Keren Hart, Bali of Montreal and Michael Tyler Collections as well as handcrafted
jackets by the owner, Mary Curts. Handcrafted jewelry by Mary as well as fused glass creations by local artist and art instructor Carol Kinast are featured. The shop also specializes in custom jewelry designs to fit every budget for bridal parties, prom and all special occasions. Stop in, say hello and enjoy a unique shopping experience!
THE PRETTIEST STAR | THE BERRY HOUSE 227 SOUTH THIRD STREET | GENEVA | (630) 208-1652 OPEN TUESDAY THROUGH SUNDAY 11:30 AM TO 5:00 PM EXPANDED HOURS DURING THE HOLIDAY SEASON | CLOSED MONDAYS
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‘Tis the Season HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS
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SPICE HOUSE The Spice House has been proud to call Geneva home for seven years now. Our philosophy has always been to make you the freshest product by small, weekly batch grinding to ensure you the highest quality spices for your cooking needs. We import spices from countries of origin which have the highest recommendations for premium quality. Often, we offer several selections of origin so
that you can sample the subtle variations and decide upon your own personal preference. We have dozens of giftboxes to choose from, with themes varying from baking to barbecuing to salt-free selection. Our most popular gift boxes are our blends based on the ethnic neighborhoods of Chicago. They make one-of-a-kind gifts for every taste on your list.
Photos by Maureen Schwartz
577 S. THIRD ST STE 100 | GENEVA | 630-262-1777 OPEN MON-FRI 10AM TO 7PM, SAT 10AM TO 5PM, SUN 11AM TO 5PM
THE STABLEWOMAN HABIT WHOA! LOOK! The StableWoman Habit, Geneva’s first Horse & Country Boutique and Gallery. Featuring StableWoman and StableFillyTM spirited apparel, accessories and fine art. Representing numerous, talented artisans from the USA and abroad. Original paintings as well as prints, pottery, sculpture, glassware, jewelry, scarves, accessories, leather, western, foxes, handbags and much much more. A hidden gem in the haystack.
®
Photo by Maureen Schwartz
227 S. THIRD STREET, SUITE 104 | GENEVA | (630) 326-9242 (INSIDE THE BERRY SHOPPES MINI MALL AT THIRD AND FRANKLIN) OPEN TUE-SAT 11AM TO 5PM AND SUNDAY NOON TO 4PM WITH EXTENDED HOLIDAY HOURS
WASCO NURSERY
Find a huge assortment of holiday greens, stems, berry branches, potted evergreens and more at Wasco Nursery & Garden Center plus a large selection of colorful containers to inspire your holiday decorating creations. Wreaths, garland and fresh cut Christmas trees are available to help complete your holiday decorating. Talk to our creative staff about designing a custom Photos by Heather Nelson
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holiday container for you. You will also find unique gift items: gourd birdhouses, birdhouses made entirely of recycled material and cypress birdhouses; gifts for the gardener including tools, gloves, pruners and books; amaryllis and paperwhite bulbs. Gift cards are always available for any occasion in any amount.
41W781 ROUTE 64 | ST. CHARLES | 6 MILES WEST OF RANDALL RD 630-584-4424 | WASCONURSERY.COM
HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2014 | 17
ROCKY MOUNTAIN CHOCOLATE One visit to our store and you'll discover why Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory is the number one destination of chocolate lovers everywhere. Throughout our store you will discover a fantastic variety of yummy chocolates and confections to satisfy cravings of even the most ardent chocoholic! Watch as we dip crisp apples in thick, bubbling caramel from a traditional copper kettle. Smile as we roll them in a rainbow of tasty toppings to
complete your old fashioned treat. Linger awhile longer and learn how fudge is made, as we fashion a creamy loaf on a traditional marble slab, the old-fashioned way, right before your eyes. And of course, everyone gets a free sample! But don't leave without sharing the experience with a gift of fine chocolate, elegantly crafted and beautifully packaged in boxes, tins and baskets.
1308 COMMONS DR. | GENEVA | 630-208-1484 WWW.ROCKYMOUNTAINCHOCOLATEFACTORY.COM | VISIT US ON FACEBOOK Photos provided
SMALLCAKES A CUPCAKERY Smallcakes A Cupcakery is a new business in St.Charles, they bake fresh daily 16 signature cupcake flavors, plus 2 special flavors each day. Smallcakes believes in its slogan of “Maybe a Cupcake Will Help?” Our mission statement: “To use creative flavors, quality ingredients, and friendly service to provide the finest cupcake experience worthy of returning and recommending.”
During this busy Holiday season you can depend on Smallcakes to help with edible gift ideas and special order items including mini cupcakes, whoopie pie, Holiday cakes, sugar cookies, brownies, fudge, Christmas cookies and candy. Everything that you will need for your holiday parties. “We’d be honored to have you drop in and see all the sweets we offer...and a Merry Holiday season to you all.”
117 W. MAIN ST. SUITE 120 | ST. CHARLES | 630-587-2253 WWW.SMALLCAKESSTCHARLES.COM
Photos by Maureen Schwartz
LEARNING EXPRESS TOYS At Learning Express Toys of Geneva Commons, we aim to provide our customers with a lively, interactive shopping experience that delights the young and the “young at heart.” Providing toy suggestions for children of all ages is a favorite pastime of ours, and we’re committed to helping you find the perfect toy for every occasion. Photos by Nancy Merkling
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• Free gift wrapping all year • Complimentary personalization • Birthday Box gift registry program Stop in for the latest and greatest toys, games, crafts and puzzles. You are always sure to find the perfect toy.
STOP BY AND VISIT US SOON! 610 COMMONS DRIVE | GENEVA | 630-232-8697
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STREETSTYLE How wonderful would it be to never have to enter a freezing cold vehicle? With a professionally installed remote start system now on sale at StreetStyle, you will never have to again! We offer everything from a simple
start only unit to a full smart phone integrated product. StreetStyle also offers a complete line of audio, video, radar detection, performance, and visual enhancements to satisfy every gear head on your holiday wish list. Photos by Joe Perez
870 S. RANDALL RD. | ST. CHARLES | (630) 377-9779 EMAIL: CUSTOMERSERVICE@STREETSTYLEINC.COM WWW.STREETSTYLEINC.COM
BURNING LEAF CIGAR At Burning Leaf Cigars, we strive to have a personal relationship with our customers, not just simply to be their local tobacco retailer, but so that every customer is 100% satisfied with their shopping experience. Our journey began in 1999 when we opened our first shop in Chicago’s Bucktown area. In 2013 we opened our Geneva store and this year we added our Aurora location that has a large smoking lounge with four flat screens.
This brings us to six locations in Illinois! Our commitment to customers, great service and superior cigar selection is our motto. We hope you will get a chance to visit our locations. Here you will find hundreds of the best cigars, at fair prices. We offer a large selection of cigar humidors, premium lighters, and all kinds of tobacco accessories. Hope to see you soon, “because you are worth it.”
477 SOUTH 3RD ST. SUITE 101 | GENEVA | 630-262-0031 4423 FOX VALLEY CENTER DR. | AURORA | 630-585-5002
Photo provided
GALENA CELLARS VINEYARD & WINERY Holiday wine and wine gifts Add festive flavor to your holidays with Galena Cellars’ seasonal favorites: Merry Merry Cranberry and Spiced Apple. Serve chilled or enjoy warmed with mulling spices on a frosty winter’s eve. Add a splash of orange juice to our sparkling cranberry to create your own “Crimosa / Mimosa.” Stock up on one of our sparkling varieties to ring in the New Year, or try our
new Wedding Cake wine with a delicious almond flavor. Giving wine? Make it personal with custom labels, or give the gift of Wine Club: three bottles delivered four times per year, handpicked by our winemaker. Unique accessories like the wine glass chandelier, artistan ornaments and handcrafted glasses, round out your gift choices.
477 S. 3RD STREET | GENEVA | 630-232-9463 515 S. MAIN STREET | GALENA GALENACELLARS.COM | FOLLOW US ON FACEBOOK, PINTEREST, TWITTER AND YOUTUBE
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Photos by Maureen Schwartz
HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2014 | 19
Editor’s Choice
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Giving gifts at the holidays is an age-old tradition in many cultures, representative of friendship, reward and affection, and in Christian religions, a symbol of the gifts brought to Jesus by the Three Kings. But whatever the reason you give, it’s always better when the gift is thoughtfully chosen, cleverly designed, and from the heart.
great gifts for the season
Here are some great options, found locally in our communities, to fill your gift list:
u
Galena Cellars is more than just a wine shop, it’s a store for wine lovers and the people who adore them! We fell for these decorative and easy tools to make the wine corks collecting in your kitchen drawer a personalized work of art! Find them at Galena Cellars, 477 S 3rd Street in Geneva.
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For a gift that’s full of fun, stuff Santa’s pants at the Olive Mill in Geneva! A festive gift basket styled like the Jolly Old Elf’s pants holds 2 bottles of olive oil and two jars of spices. Stop in and fill yours at 315 James St, Geneva
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The Little Traveler, home to room after room of great gift merchandise, is always a must-stop on your holiday gift buying jaunts. We found a clever “brie” bakers pot with brie recipe book, for any foodie, aspiring chef, or home entertainer. Makes a great hostess gift for that upcoming Christmas party! Check it out at the store, 404 S 3rd Street in Geneva.
20 | DECEMBER 2014 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS
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The diversity of Chicago’s neighborhoods produces a bounty of food variety throughout the city, capture it all with an “Ethnic Chicago Neighborhoods spice box, from The Spice House in Geneva. Four different combinations, it’s the perfect gift for an outof-town pal, the brother who moved away, or a brand new neighbor. Visit the Spice House at 577 South Third Street in Geneva.
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Town House Books in St Charles has limited edition, hand sewn letter press books available. The Least Little Thing is a collection of contemporary haiku by local author Mark Mitchellm, and each book is signed by the author. Hardcover and paperback editions are available. Pair it with a gift card, and they can enjoy a book along with a cup of coffee in the Town House Café, located at 105 N. Second Avenue, St. Charles.
A collection of all things homey, kitchy and clever, Cocoon in Geneva is the place to find just the gift for that hard-to-buyfor person on your list. We found trendy bird bookends, perfect for the lover of books or birds, or both! Located at 212 S. Third Street, Geneva
Is there a beer aficionado on your list with time on his hands? Let him try his hand at his own craft brew, with a home brewing kit from the Home Brew Shop in St. Charles. The basic home brew equipment kit sells for $74.99. Stop in at 225 West Main Street St. Charles.
Give a gift of peace and wellness with a gift card or gift box from Tranquility Spa and Wellness Center in St. Charles. Gift cards are available for in-store purchase during regular business hours for spa services and products. Stop in at 113 N 2nd Avenue, St. Charles. Gift certificates also are available online at http:// www.relaxattranquility.com
Looking for a timeless gift for a special person on your list? Look no further than State Street Jewelers, and the store’s Signature Collection of fine timepieces. High quality Swiss movements watches feature genuine sapphire crystals, water resistance, and a two-year warranty. Located at 230 West State Street, Geneva
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The Fox Valley is full of cyclists, so for your rambling rider, consider a Banjo Brothers Top Tube Bag from Prairie Path Cycles, to keep all must-haves (phone, wallet, keys, snacks) within reach. Made with a lined and padded interior, it sits on the top tube, and its clear top allows the rider to see what’s in inside while keeping it all dry. 160 W. Wilson, Batavia.
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KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2014 | 21
GET REAL
Cut down your Christmas tree and build a family tradition
Create lasting holiday memories with the whole family, when you head out for a country drive to choose and cut a live Christmas tree. The variety of long-lasting fresh ones has never been better, and there are many growers around to find the perfect one for your home this season.
FAR WEST SUBURBAN TREE FARMS ZIEGLER CHRISTMAS TREE FARM
HOURS OF OPERATION: Open Nov: 28, 29, and 30. After that please call ahead or check the website.9 a.m.-4 p.m.. No one is allowed in the field after 4. If you show up at 4:05, you will not be allowed into the field. In addition, you must be out of the field by 4:30. This is for your safety, as well as our staff, as we have no way to light the area. LOCATION: 42w109 McDonald Rd, Elgin, IL COST: Types of Trees and costs: All Pines are $39. We are scotch pines. All Spruces are $55. This includes Blue, White, and Black Hills. All Firs are $70. This includes Balsam, Concolor and Douglas. We have trees up to 14 feet. DETAILS: The business only accepts cash or checks. The farm has trees up to 14 feet, including pines, both scotch and white; spruces, blue, white and black hills; and firs, including balsam, concolor and douglas. Dogs are allowed at the tree farm but they must be on a leash. WEBSITE: www.zieglerchristmastreefarm.com/ farm-information.html PHONE: (847) 464-5776
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HONEY BEE ACRES CHRISTMAS TREE FARM
HOURS OF OPERATION: Open 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Nov. 29-Dec. 1, Dec. 6-8 and Dec. 13-15. LOCATION: 41W072 Bowes Rd, Elgin, IL COST: Pine trees are $29 and Firs/Spruces are $49. Military discount with current I.D. We take cash, checks and charge cards (no American Express or Debit cards). DETAILS: Saws are available to borrow or purchase. Tree carts are available to haul your tree out of the field. The farm is pet friendly farm as long as the dog remains on a leash. After the tree is cut down, you can get your picture with your tree in Santa’s sleigh. The farm also sell wreaths, garland, American made tree stands and Yankee Christmas scented candles. The ‘Reindeer Cafe’ serves breakfast and lunch WEBSITE: www. honeybeeacreschristmastreefarm.net PHONE: (847) 464-9627
MARMION ABBEY FARMS
HOURS OF OPERATION: Open Nov. 28 - Dec. 23 daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Everyday 10 am – 7pm (bring your flashlight after dark – the fields are not lit!) Open on Thanksgiving from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. LOCATION: 850 Butterfield Rd, Aurora, IL COST: U-Cut trees: $45, Precut Trees: $8 per HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS
foot, Wreaths & Garland: Varies DETAILS: 120 acres of treeIncluding Scotch Pine, White Pine (limited in field), Austrian Pine (very limited in field), Norway Spruce (very limited in field), Canaan Fir (very limited in field, pre-cut trees available), Balsaam Fir (pre-cut only), Frasier Fir (pre-cut only) and Doublas Fir (pre-cut only). Every tree comes with a complimentary donut for each group member. Saw rental is a refundable $10. Leashed pets are welcome. WEBSITE: www.abbeyfarms.org/Welcome.html PHONE: (630) 897-7215 ext. 375
LEE’S TREES
HOURS OF OPERATION: The farms 21st season begins Friday, Nov. 28 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and continues Fridays from 1 to 5 p.m. and weekends from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, November 28 9:00 – 5:00 Fridays 1:00 - 5:00 Saturdays and Sundays 9:00 - 5:00 through Dec. 23 or until the trees are sold out. LOCATION: 45W002 Lees Rd, Lily Lake, IL COST: The average price for cut-your-own trees is $65. The average price of a pre-cut The average price of a 7’-8’ tree: Balsam Fir - $65$70, Fraser Fir - $90-$110, White Pine - $45-$50. DETAILS: Pick from 4’-9’ Scotch pine, White pine, Canaan fir, and Serbian spruce. Fresh, hand-crafted wreaths, swags, centerpieces, kanecountymagazine.com
roping, and decorations are made daily. You can warm up in the sales shop where you’ll enjoy free hot chocolate, coffee, fresh popcorn, and homemade cookies. WEBSITE: www.leestreesusa.com PHONE: (630) 365-2116
KUIPERS FAMILY FARM
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HOURS OF OPERATION: Open daily in November and December from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. LOCATION: 1N318 Watson Road, Maple Park, IL COST: Choose and cut firs and pines are $84. Pre-cut firs are individually prices. DETAILS: Acres of beautiful pines and firs to select from. Wagon rides to and from the fields on weekends, weather permitting. An apple cider donut is provided to everyone in your party. WEBSITE: www.kuipersfamilyfarm.com/ contact-us.htm PHONE: (815) 827-5200
CAMELOT CHRISTMAS TREE
HOURS OF OPERATION: Open everyday starting on Nov. 28 through Dec. 23. Monday - Friday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Saturday-Sunday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. LOCATION: 16380 South Somonauk Rd, DeKalb, IL COST: All Choose & Cut and Pre-Cut Christmas Trees are $50.00 DETAILS: Concolor, Fraser, Canaan, Douglas, Balsam Fir, Blue and White Spruce, White Pine and Scotch Pine available. Saws, twine, tree shaker and baler are available for your convenience. WEBSITE: www.camelottrees.com PHONE: (815) 756-659
LARSON’S FAMILY FARM
HOURS OF OPERATION: Open 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Nov. 28. Open through Dec. 23 from 2 to 4:30 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday; 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Saturday through Sunday. Closed on Mondays. LOCATION: 4404 Somonauk Rd, Sandwich, IL COST: All Christmas trees are $37 DETAILS: More than eighteen acres of cutyour-own Christmas trees in the following varieties: Caanan Fir (Like Fraizer Fir), Concolor Fir, Douglas Fir, Norway Spruce, Scotch Pine, and White Pine. WEBSITE: www.larsonfamilyfarm.com PHONE: (815) 786-2249 For driving directions to the farms and additional information, be sure to check out the websites or phone numbers under each listing. kanecountymagazine.com
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KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2014 | 23
Consider a live Christmas tree for you and your family Happy Holidays Kane County!
Keep inside for 7-10 days. Then gradually take outside via porch or garage.
Displaying a live Christmas tree is not easy, but Remove mulch in hole you dug before the also not that difficult. The good news is that you holidays. Plant, firm soil around tree and mulch. can plant it in your yard after the holidays, and see it grow into a home for your birds and wildlife. An alternate method to use a live tree, is to set it up outside, and decorate so you can see it from Before the ground freezes, dig a hole where you the house or on your way into your home. want your new tree to grow. It’s little now, but spruce and pines grow up pretty fast. Dig your hole a little larger than the root ball, and fill with mulch. You will need this later.
Do not fertilize as you do not want it to start growing. A little needle loss is alright.
Enjoy your tree, it should last for years to come. A Remember that your tree is used to being outside, reminder of happy times. so we have to gradually introduce it indoors. Holiday Planters Use an unheated porch or garage as an interim I am sure you have admired the arrangements between outside and inside. downtown and at malls of holiday greens. Try to keep it in a cool spot, do not place it next to It is easy to do at home. Go to anyplace that sells a heating vent or stove. live green trees. There are cut off branches you can use to fill your planters. Remove about 1/3 Keep it watered, but do not let the roots sit in of the soil, and add sand. Arrange greens with water. You may want to place it in a tub with some gravel in the bottom. Keep a moist towel on other eye-catching accents. Branches painted red or white, crabapples, pine cones…You can top of the root ball. also purchase specialty greens or accents at your You can always put on a pretty tree skirt over neighborhood nursery. that. Mist the needles so they don’t dry out. You will lose some, but we want to keep it minimal. You can also buy an antiwilt product called Wilt Proof to help the needles stay on your tree. 24 | DECEMBER 2014 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
In spring, you can switch out the sand for good planting mix and plant pansies or snapdragons for early color. HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS
Nature News With Gene Grant,
CEO of Grant & Power Landscaping Inc. Gene Grant, is a registered landscape architect with more than 35 years of experience in the industry. Follow this new column in the Kane County Magazine, or reach out to Gene directly with any landscape related questions.
630 231-0069 genegrant@grantandpower.com www.grantandpower.com kanecountymagazine.com
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KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2014 | 25
LIVING BY
DESIGN
with Michael Grudecki
DESIGNER DILEMMA
Finding the right designer with the right look If you are hiring an interior designer to transform your home, or even just a single room within it, you are entrusting a professional to join you on what promises to be a very personal and individualized journey. After all, this is your home, your haven, the place where you and your loved ones will live and play. So, there are several key factors to keep in mind when selecting the right designer, who can transform your house into the dream home you are looking for. The first, and most important factor is experience. Not every designer has 26 | DECEMBER 2014 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
the same experience level. There are designers who work strictly on commercial projects and designers who work strictly residential projects. In addition, there are designers who work on both commercial and residential projects. It’s important to know that the commercial designer may not necessarily have the same thought process when it comes to functionality as the residential designer, and vice versa for commercial projects. Whenever possible, we recommend that clients choose the designer who has some experience in both areas. More often than not, the design is HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS
solid and the materials used longer lasting. Second, just because the designer thinks a design looks good doesn’t mean you should. There are a lot of designers that have poor taste. (I know, I have fixed enough of their projects through the years! ) Additionally, the goal of the designer should not be making your home the next masterpiece for his portfolio, but rather creating a home that is both functional and pleasing to you, as the client. Third, just because it looks like a duck and acts like a duck, does not mean it’s a duck. Anyone can call themselves a “designer”. kanecountymagazine.com
But to know you are truly working with a skilled and experienced professional designer, ask to see his portfolio and the kind of projects he has worked on. Your goal should be to choose a designer who has a wide area of expertise and projects you can relate to. If in looking at the designer’s portfolio, you do not see a room and say “I wish that were mine” or “I can see myself living there”, it may not be the right designer for you.
chicagolan chicagoland
100+ Lines of Furniture $ Home Accents $ Rugs $ Florals $ Home Staging $ Space Planning $ General Contracting
HOME & design
Get your home ready for the holidays ECONOMICALLY!
Fourth, if the designer’s schedule is wide open, we strongly recommend you question why the designer currently has no clients. Occasionally, clients cancel and projects get delayed, but designers with good reputations and large client base normally are able to normally fill those spots quickly, before a new client ever asks to get on the schedule. Finally, every designer will bill differently for their time and products. Know what you are signing up for! If your designer is offering you a free in-home consultation, realize that there is nothing free in life. The designer’s fees more often than not will be made-up in the cost of the goods and materials you buy from them. Ultimately, they will be reimbursed for their time, it is just a matter of how.
I can show you how simple it is! VIGNETTE HOME DECOR 630.482.3000
FIND US ON:
1952 W. Fabyan Parkway • Batavia, IL 60510
Stop in and see me today.
(Between Trader Joe’s & Office Depot) • www.vignettehomedecor.com
Designing your home–be it an entire floor, a basement remodel, or simply a single room– should be an exciting, creative and enjoyable experience. The designer you hire should keep it that way. Choose wisely.
In retirement, will you outlive your money? Everyone has retirement questions. So Ameriprise created the exclusive Confident Retirement® approach. I can help you break down retirement planning step-by-step to get the real answers you need. Let’s get started today. STEVE SMITH Financial Advisor Associate Vice President
Michael Grudecki is president and senior design consultant with Vignette Home Decor, Inc. Stop in for more advice, and see what's in the store at 1952 W Fabyan Pkwy, Batavia.
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3 N. Second Street, Suite 200 St. Charles, IL 60174 630.762.6556 steven.l.smith@ampf.com ameripriseadvisors.com/ steven.smith Brokerage, investment and financial advisory services are made available through Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA and SIPC. Confident Retirement is not a guarantee of future financial results. © 2014 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved. (1/14)
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KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2014 | 27
MELANCHOLY CHRISTMAS For some, the season can be sorrowful, not celebratory By MARTHA MADDI
W
e all have visions of how the holidays are supposed to be: families enjoying a feast around a festive dining room table and kids’ eyes lighting up at the sight of the mounds of adorned gifts under the Christmas tree. But for many, this is far from the reality. Indeed, a recent North American survey reported that 45 percent of respondents dreaded the holidays.
loved one can lead to depression, especially at holiday time. “It is important for everybody to be mindful of what is considered normal for them,” said Redmon. “We all experience some level of depression and anxiety throughout our lives and being able to identify when it has begun intruding on our ability to function in daily life is the first step in helping ourselves.”
Redmon and Minnesota-based Mayo Clinic offer tips on how to cope with stress and depression Anxiety often occurs at this time of year because at holiday time: of the barrage of demands it brings – incurring • ACKNOWLEDGE YOUR FEELINGS debt with the gifts and entertaining; attending Realize that feeling sadness and grief because social gatherings with co-workers, friends and of missing loved ones either because they have family with whom you’d rather not spend time; passed away or because they cannot join you is and a long to-do list which includes decorating, completely normal. shopping, wrapping gifts, sending holiday cards, • REACH OUT baking, attending and hosting parties. If you feel lonely, volunteer your time to help Lindsey Redmon, licensed professional counselor others or look for community or religious events at Portrait Health Center in St. Charles, said to get involved in. At Redeemer Fellowship “individuals may have feelings of being Church in St. Charles, there is a special Blue overwhelmed by many tasks to complete with Christmas Service presented for those people little time to do so.” who are grieving the loss of one or more loved ones. This year, the service will be held from In addition to the financial burdens and 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. on Friday, December 5. Open expectations associated with the holidays, the to the public, the service will consist of worship lack of close family and friends or the loss of a 28 | DECEMBER 2014 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
HEALTH & WELLNESS
songs, scripture readings, a sermon about grief and an open mike opportunity for those that would like to talk about their grief. Following the service, there will be refreshments and coffee. This is the first year that Redeemer Fellowship Church is offering the program and member Krista Brennfoerder is the reason it was created. She moved to the Fox Valley from Missouri where her church had such a service. She feels that people in mourning often get lost in the shuffle during the busy, happy Christmas season. “This service is a time for them to not feel forced to put on a happy face, to get a break from the craziness of Christmas and feel no expectations,” said Brennfoerder. • BE REALISTIC Realize that the holidays are not always going to be perfect and that they will evolve over time. As your children grow into adults, it becomes necessary to create new traditions. • KEEP A BUDGET Figure out before you hit the stores how much you can reasonably spend on holiday gifts and don’t get carried away.
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HEALTH & WELLNESS
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2014 | 29
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HEALTH & WELLNESS
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2014 | 31
If I don’t know how to use Twitter, does that make me a twit? By RUBEN J. RUCOBA, MD
I’m old enough that the TV in my childhood home got only six channels, our phone had a rotary dial, and I never used a word processor until after I graduated from college. So when one of the nurses in my office declared the other day that “no one” uses Facebook anymore because it’s so old, I felt like Methuselah. And I know I’m not alone. The explosion in technology can be frightening to those of us with older children. However, parents need to have a working knowledge of this technology in order to monitor what kids are doing with it. The following are some helpful tips to monitor your child’s online activities: Establish rules for using all the devices. Ideally, this should be done before getting a device (phone, computer, tablet, laptop, etc.), but if it hasn’t been done, use the start of school as an excuse to establish some ground rules. Kids should know which sites or social media are not allowed, and the consequences for violating the rules. Parents should know the passwords of their children’s devices and accounts, and be allowed to peruse them. Older teens may desire and need some independence, but that should be discussed and the rules modified as the teen ages. And enforce the rules: take the device away if the rules are broken. Use some sort of program to monitor devices, such as WebWatcher, Net Nanny, CyberSitter, or others. Some of these can monitor cell phones as well as computers. Learn as much as you can about the technology your children and teenagers use. Parents should get accounts on the sites or social media apps that their children use to monitor what pictures and posts are displayed on those sites. 32 | DECEMBER 2014 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
Before anyone accuses me of trying to turn all of you into “helicopter parents,” let me say that NOT monitoring what your children are doing in the virtual world can have horrifying consequences. We all hear the stories of cyber-bullying, and often, parents are the last to know, sometimes after it’s too late. Researchers have found that depression, anxiety, severe isolation, and even suicide can result from cyber-bullying. It’s every parent’s responsibility to keep their children safe and educate them about online dangers.
Keep computers in a central area of the home to better monitor your child’s activity. For cell phones and other portable devices, be sure your “contract” allows you to look at the device intermittently. Even though you are looking at what your children are doing online, make sure you also talk about it with them. Ask which sites they go to, who they talk or text to. Discuss with your children proper online behavior. One of the keys is to never post or text or email anything you wouldn’t say to that person’s face. We’ve all been emotional and wanted to fire off an angry text or email, but once that SEND button is hit, you can’t take it back. And teach them to avoid using or visiting sites where people can post comments anonymously, like Ask.fm. Likewise, they need to know that anything online potentially lives forever. Just because Johnny took it off his Facebook wall or deleted it from Twitter doesn’t mean it hasn’t done harm. And someone surely got a screenshot of the offending post or picture, and that may come back to haunt him. College admissions officers and employers commonly use online profiles to help them make decisions. HEALTH & WELLNESS
Learn as much as you can about the most common sites and social media used by youth. There are new sites and apps every day, and what’s popular today will be old news in a few months. So keep up to date, and take advantage of the talks given by local communities or school districts about online dangers. The AAP has a list of resources, called the Safety Net, to help parents keep their kids safe online: http:// safetynet.aap.org Make sure to limit the time online. Sometimes the best and easiest way to monitor online activity is to just turn it off. Tell your child or teen to turn the device off and spend some time with family, friends, and the real world. Dr. Ruben J. Rucoba is a general pediatrician in Wheaton and a member of the medical staff at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago and Central DuPage Hospital. Rucoba is also a medical writer and the father of four children. This article was originally published in Salubrity, a blog offering of the Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago. luriechildrens-salubrity. tumblr.com
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KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2014 | 33
The Most
Wonderful Time of the Year
H
ere we go! It’s that time of year again, the Holiday Season is upon us. Some of us cannot wait for this time of year, especially our children who started their rough drafts of their holiday “wish lists” back in July. For others (and I include myself) the “magic” the childhood holidays is but a faint memory, while we are running around trying to balance the demands of a household, a job, and preparing for Christmas. Instead of getting out tinsel in a tangle, what if we tried just this year to simplify things? I was recently reading to my daughter a Little House on the Prairie Book called “Christmas in the Big Woods.” It describes the gifts the parents gave their children at that time; a doll carved out of wood, knitted socks, and homemade candy wrapped in brown paper. I am in no way suggesting giving your child those gifts, but what if we took holiday gift giving down a 34 | DECEMBER 2014 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
notch? Our children take their cues from us, and besides lowering our own stress levels, we could model for our children how to enjoy the holidays, instead of trying to survive them. Every year it seems we are bombarded with more to do at this time of the year - buying gifts and holiday cards, making cookies, decorating the house inside and out, helping out at classroom holiday parties, attending Christmas concerts, and joining in work holiday parties to name a few. All of these are worthy events. But when put all together, these activities can wear us down and take some of the fun of the season away. Our kids feel this same exhaustion. Even without the addition of the holidays, more and more kids are being diagnosed with anxiety disorders or exhibiting symptoms of stress overload. Many times, our own lives are so fast paced we fail to notice the symptoms.
FAMILY in FOCUS
For babies and small children, their language may not say it, but their behavior will let you know when they have had enough. Children thrive on routine. Changes in their sleep or feeding schedules can leave them irritable and difficult to console. Skip a nap and you just ordered yourself a full-blown temper tantrum. Grade school kids are busy finishing up homework, taking tests, and having the added responsibilities of participating in holiday concerts or other events. Some may complain of stomachaches, headaches, or fatigue. High school kids are cramming all hours of the night for finals and last minute homework assignments they need to finish (or start). Throw in some dating drama for extra fun, and the holidays just took another turn.
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How can you begin to avoid holiday stress: Make a list of the most u Prioritize. important things you need to accomplish. the family feuds for after the v Save holidays. Christmas and family funerals bring out the best in family members. Table the feuds until January. some downtime days. Everyone is w Plan already over scheduled the rest of the year. feel pressured by those x Don’t commercials to spend more than you can afford. Remind your children about what is really important to your family this time of year. the best present you can y Remember, give your children is your time. That’s
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KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2014 | 35
ROSE OF SHARING Geneva’s Rose Booe builds network of hospital volunteers who offer time, services By MELISSA RUBALCABA RISKE
“I love what I do, I shouldn’t be honored for it,” Booe says. As a director of volunteer services for Cadence Health her role is working with more than 1,300 volunteers at Delnor Hospital in Geneva and Central DuPage Hospital in Winfield, as well as in the gift shops and resale shops for both hospitals. For the last 14 years she has facilitated the placement of volunteers and worked to create programs and retain volunteers. She considers it her main job to ensure each volunteer knows how important they are, and the difference they truly make for the patients, staff and family members. While her work is with volunteers, Booe says the ultimate goal is to support the staff and patients. Volunteers can be a cheerful face in the gift shop as a new grandparent makes a purchase or can be the ones delivering a distracting magazine to a patient arriving for a treatment. A volunteer may be the first person a visitor meets upon entering the hospital. There also are volunteers who generously donate their time working on projects from home, such as those who knit hats for newborns and another group who makes plush animals. Volunteers range in age from teens through seniors. Booe makes a point to take time to talk, and especially listen to the volunteers whether they have an idea, question or simply want to share a story. She says she is continually humbled when a volunteer stops to thank her for the opportunity. “How very blessed I am that this is my job,” Booe says.
36 | DECEMBER 2014 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
Lois Cox of Geneva has volunteered for the last seven years and gotten to know Booe along the way. “She makes you feel important. She makes you feel like you are making a difference,” Cox says. “She just sees the worth in every person.” Booe says she understands, first-hand, the role of volunteers. “I always thought if you work with volunteers you should attempt to volunteer,” Booe says. “I think it can give you additional insight.” Outside of work she has volunteered in the community herself, including time at Fox Valley Hospice as a bereavement volunteer, providing support to families. Booe credits her parents as role models, citing how they made time to volunteer at school and church while raising eight children in their Maryland home.
Photo by Nancy Merkling
W
hen Rose Booe of Geneva learned that she had been named a Woman of Distinction, she found the honor a complete surprise.
“I was brought up that if you have an opportunity, you take advantage of it to make a difference,” Booe says. “She is living her passion and I think that comes through,” says Mickey Hildebrand, a long time friend and former co-worker of Booe. Hildebrand says it’s hard to leave a conversation with Booe without smiling, as she is a positive person and a joy to be around.
isn’t ready to make any plans. And when her time comes to retire Booe says she knows she’ll still be a part of the hospital community, trading her work badge for a volunteer’s uniform.
Additionally Hildebrand says Booe is great in her work, praising her ability to negotiate and collaborate as well as manage the numbers when it comes to budgets. Outside of her work Booe says she loves spending time with her grandchildren, doing anything outdoors, and she is an avid college sports fan, especially college basketball. While retirement is in her future, Booe says she
FAMILY in FOCUS
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FAMILY in FOCUS
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2014 | 37
Christmas: TIME TO CRANK IT UP. Perhaps it is because I have barely gotten over the fact that Christmas decorations started popping up before Halloween. Perhaps it is because only a few weeks ago I sold or donated most of the toys the kids got just last Christmas. It could be that my Jack-o-Lanterns hadn’t even rotted before Lite FM started playing Holiday songs, or because I cannot stand hearing the words, “OOOH, Mom! I want that for Christmas!” every three seconds. Whatever the case may be, I have a serious case of the Christmas Cranks. It started immediately after my kids’ birthdays in the spring. Once the onslaught of toys was collected from their birthday party, they started making yet another list of more stuff they wanted. As we
approached September, I felt it was finally appropriate for them to start a Christmas list (since it isn’t unheard of for me to start Christmas shopping in October.) It also gave me the opportunity to squelch their comments simply by saying, “Put it on the list.” Every time my kids sit down to watch Nickelodeon, the list grows by five items. There are certain things I simply tell them Santa does not bring, mainly because I know that “Santa” will be selling that item at next year’s garage sale for less than half of what I paid for them.
What really ticks me off is that once they make their list for Santa, they turn to me and ask what I am going to get them for Christmas. It is at that moment that I am tempted to tell them that there is no such thing as Santa, and that all the gifts they get each year are from yours truly. It really would make it a heck of a lot easier to explain that Santa/ Mom has a budget and that asking for a Nintendo 3DS from Santa and an iPad Mini from Mom and Dad just isn’t going to fly. Recently, I’ve seen posts on Facebook about nongift ideas for kids like zoo memberships, trips to the children’s museum, donating to charity, etc. Don’t get me wrong; we do many of these things and I wish it were that simple. We are diligent in our efforts to teach our children from an early age that not everyone is as fortunate as they are. We have donated used toys as well as brand new toys to families in need. I point out to them that most of the items on the giving tree at church aren’t toys because those in need don’t ask for things they want, they ask for things they need. They still don’t understand why Santa is not an equal opportunity giver, yet they are getting old enough to start to question why that is.
I know I cannot put blinders on my kids from October thru January as all the advertisements, decorations and major marketing blitzes ramp up. But I have no shame in tossing the Big Book of Toys that comes in the mail before they even get home from school. I would literally have to hide them in a cave, deprive them of any and all television, keep them home from school at least a month after Winter break to avoid facing the inevitable question, “What did you get for Christmas?” Furthermore, I could never, ever take them to the store with me. Even Walgreens is littered with “As Seen On TV” gifts that have my kids begging for any and all stuffed animals that can be worn, light up or used to smuggle contraband. Someday I will miss the magic of them believing in Santa, but in the meantime I kind of want to give “Santa” a piece of my mind about this fantasy he plants in children’s heads about getting whatever the heck they want. He makes it look so easy with all those perky elves tinkering away making simple toys for good boys and girls. I think he should be the one to actually hunt down the best deal on Zoomer the Dog before they start going for $200 on eBay, only to have it sit in the corner of the kids’ rooms uncharged and lifeless. He should be the one to sit at my garage sale next year and sell all the unwanted and barely used toys the kids HAD TO HAVE this year and haggle over a 12-inch talking My Little Pony that originally cost $45 to a woman who wants it for $3. He’d probably put his chubby finger next to his red nose and with a twinkle of his eye, disappear up the chimney.
Regardless of our efforts to be generous and give unto others, they still will be expecting heaps of presents under the tree. Now, I know what you are thinking. …“Michelle, you have created these monsters and you are the one setting these expectations...” To that I say, “B.S.” You try putting one gift under the tree amidst I.O.U.’s for trips to the zoo and museums when your children are constantly being bombarded with television commercials, the Big Book of Toys from Target, Toys R Us, Walmart, Kmart and Kohl’s. That doesn’t even scratch the surface if you throw in the catalogs for websites and mail-order retailers. 38 | DECEMBER 2014 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
FAMILY in FOCUS
Write This Down with Michelle Stien
Michelle Stien is a stay-at-home mom of two children, ages 5 and 7. Her mother always told her to “write this down,” so she is sharing her experiences with other Kane County women to help them deal with the craziness of being “Mom.” kanecountymagazine.com
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FAMILY in FOCUS
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2014 | 39
‘TIS THE SEASON for colder days and festive nights!
T
raditional sequin is always in style for the holidays. (We ladies certainly love our sparkle!) But have you tried lace? It’s a sexy option and not only in our favorite black, but gorgeous colors like forest green and burgundy, a great way to try something new, whether in classic dresses or beautiful tops.
Your staple “go-to piece for the season is, again, the legging: plain or patterned, fleece-lined with a big sweater for those cold winter days, or in fun designs with a flowey top and heels. Also trending is the velvet or faux leather legging, great for a night out to dinner or a Christmas party. Not only stylish but oh, so comfy! The Lysee brand features four-way stretch and tummy control built right in, so they eliminate the bulge without the bind. If you haven’t tried them you really should, but I warn, you will fall in love with them and want to wear nothing else. The pleather look (“Vegan Leather” as they are calling it this season) is another essential. Whether you wear it in a jacket, pants, skirt or top, its a “must” for your wardrobe this season. Not ready to take the plunge into full pleather pants? There are so many subtle ways that you can wear it! Add a sweater or top with just an accent of “Vegan Leather” and it will update any outfit. Then finish it off with a fabulous boot. Worn over the knee, mid calf or ankle, any style will compliment your outfit and complete your look. Don’t forget those gorgeous skirts and leggings by Lysse for total control. Cold weather is inevitable so lets embrace it in style! 40 | DECEMBER 2014 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
An Affordable Fashion Forward Boutique
Photos by Maureen Schwartz
Leanne Conlon is the owner of LeLa, Une Boutique Unique located at 211 W. State Street in downtown Geneva.
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KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2014 | 41
Coming Home... When I got home it felt so different. It hasn’t always been like this. Usually this old train station is crowded and packed with people over the holidays. Kids screaming and laughing and families hugging each other. Not so today. Although everything looks so familiar everything looks so different. Something is frightening me. I am looking around to find my dad and my mom to welcome me. They promised to pick me up. I am looking around. But can’t see them. Don’t you know I am home? Then I hear the laughter of kids, a Christmas song playing its cracking tune thru the old announcement speakers. I see my first love running by and getting on the train. I try to call him but he is already gone. Where is he going? Why didn’t he see me. My dad is standing at the end of that railway car. He is waving at me and holding my mom with the other arm. I yell their names. She is smiling and I know she has tears of joy running down her face already. She has always been like this. They are walking towards me. It feels like I haven’t seen them forever. A group of Christmas carolers is standing at the platform. Where did my mom and dad go? Mom? It starts to snow and I am freezing. The huge train stations windows are broken and the wind is burning my face. I can’t see you anymore. Where are you? I am home. Can’t you see I am home. The Christmas carolers disappeared but the old announcement speaker is still playing that song. I feel tears in my eyes... I woke up by my own screams and I realize. It is Christmas 2014. And I am alone. MODEL: Sam Halayna MAKE-UP AND HAIR: Kalee Anne Hooghkirk LOCATION CREDITS: Fox River Trolley Museum, South Elgin, IL USA PHOTOGRAPHER: Thomas H P Jerusalem, A-MOMENT-IN-TIME.COM Photography
PHOTOGRAPHER: Thomas H.P. Jerusalem is a photographer from St Charles, IL with a studio in the 1020 Cedar Ave Business Building. His work has been published in international magazines and his photographs have won awards. Models from the Kane County as well as the Chicago area have been published on Italian VOGUE’s website. A-MOMENT-IN-TIME.COM Photography, Bat Cave Studios, 1020 Cedar Ave, St Charles, IL. Phone 630 983 1547 - rates start at $150 for 3 hrs coached studio shoots, any level of experience. Thomas H.P. Jerusalem (AKA Jerry) is a German photographer living and working in Chicago, Naperville and St Charles, IL. Thomas H.P. Jerusalem is specialized in fashion and conceptual photography. His work has been published on numerous occasions in international magazines, both online and print, and several photographs have won awards. He is listed in the ONE LIFE 2012 Catalog and has a portfolio at Italian VOGUE/ PhotoVogue and Art+Commerce/VOGUE NYC. His clients include, ad agencies, magazines, model agencies, publishing companies, designers. Jerry combines his background with his photography and style, creating vintage and surrealistic portraits of models in conceptual environments. His work includes dark romantic, edgy and vintage space-age photography. Growing up during the Cold War in West Germany and reading his dad’s over-sized NY Photo Academy books from the sixties influenced his style. Since he didn’t speak English back then, the descriptive words to the pictures didn’t make too much sense, so he focused on the images instead. Images that are still blurry somewhere in his mind and that he now uses for inspirations of his work. Jerry started with Street Photography and Photojournalism, both very strong and expressive ways of photography. The passion and perfection that Jerry has for photography reflects in every image. Thomas H.P. Jerusalem Photography Inc. A-MOMENT-IN-TIME.COM Photography 630-983-1547 www.a-moment-in-time.com | jerry@a-moment-in-time.com MODEL: Sam Halayna is a model from Batavia, IL. She had always wanted to model but never found the time for it because of her commitment to playing sports. After an injury in early 2014, she was able to devote more effort into modeling. She got her start in modeling after a shoot with Photographer Thomas H.P. Jerusalem from A-MOMENT-IN-TIME.COM Photography back in June. Since then she has been published in magazines and VOGUE Italia’s website. With her love of volleyball, fitness and nutrition, she hopes to one day become a fitness model and college volleyball player. MAKE-UP ARTIS/STYLIST: Kalee Anne Hooghkirk is a published Makeup Artist working in the Chicagoland area. While she provides full makeup services Ediorial and High Fashion is where her real passion shines. When she is not doing makeup she is a National Esthetics Trainer and Esthetician traveling the Untied States opening spas and leading skincare workshops. KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2014 | 43
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44 | DECEMBER 2014 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
FASHION & BEAUTY
kanecountymagazine.com
SPARKLE THIS SEASON in the hottest holiday trends By YVONNE BENSON
Holidays are the perfect occasion to break from fashion drudgery and try something fresh. Swap worn yoga pants and tired jeans for au courant trends that turn heads. Speaking of heads, maybe a cutting edge hair style coupled with eye-popping cosmetics might help you step out with sparkle this season. Carmella Rinella is the owner of C. Rinella Designs in Geneva, and an accomplished dress designer. “I’m seeing a lot of cocktail dresses with fun prints; brocade looks with metallic detailing,” she says. Also for a more casual note, knee length skirts or below the knee are in. “You can pair it with a tie-at-the-neck blouse ([which was] also very in this fall) a cardigan or open sweater. You can also go for a pant instead of a skirt.
-Continued on page 46
Dress and necklace available at C.Rinella Designs, Geneva.
-Continued from page 45 Color is key this year, and rich deep hues are what’s in style for the holidays. “Right now sienna is a very hot color. You see it everywhere from movie stars to fashion runway looks. It’s a mix between red and brown and it’s easy to pair with lots of colors: cream, black charcoal and navy! Also very in this season are shades of red, even blood red is in. Also very hot right now are deep shades of jewel tones; especially deep purple.” Down Rt. 31 into Batavia, Mary Marconi-Popiel is the owner, buyer, and manager for Special Occasions on the Avenue.
Photos by Ron McKinney
“For the holidays this year you will see some really fun things! In short and long dresses there are sheer fabrics being used to create an illusion. Maggy London and Ivy and Blu
46 | DECEMBER 2014 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
Clothing and accessories available at Special Occasions On the Avenue, in Batavia. Shoes available at DSW, Geneva Commons.
FASHION & BEAUTY
kanecountymagazine.com
both have some must see dresses featuring this,” she says. “ Lace is also very important. It can be used as a detail in a dress or be a fully laced dress. Lace will either have a nude underlay or sparkling embellishments.” John Gialluisi, Creative Director for Mario Triccoci Hair Salons & Day Spas has some ideas for perking up your style. “For this holiday season, a soft, natural eye paired with a strong lip in strong hues of red or pink is both beautiful and festive,” Gialluisi explains. When it comes to hair, “Soft waves with the appearance of effortless style is the hottest thing.” he adds “Styles that look undone yet finished will be the popular women’s hair trend for the holiday season.”
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“The perfect ‘fashion forward’ holiday look this year would be a messy updo: eyes with natural shadow and soft liner, and a strong lip in hues of red or pink.” Gialluisi says, “Anyone with this look will be a hit at any holiday party.” Marconi-Popiel says to walk into your holiday party with a style that’s fashion-forward, one must “be tastefully elegant.” “If your dress is amazing then pare down your accessories, she says. “Wear only one item that says ‘here I am!’ If your dress is simple, wear an amazing necklace or bracelet and simple pair of earrings. Not both. Whatever way you go – either with the trends, to forge your own path, or to stick with convention – have fun with your look during the holidays. It’s the perfect time to go out of your way to play with your look, have fun, and be merry. “An amazing woman taught me it’s always better to be overdressed than underdressed and truly your best accessory is your smile,” Marconi says.
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kanecountymagazine.com
FASHION & BEAUTY
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KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2014 | 47
ENJOY A
“CEREMONY OF CAROLS” with Vero Voce singers V
ero Voce Theater and School of Performing Arts will feature Benjamin Britten’s “Ceremony of Carols” sung by the Vero Voce Chorale and accompanied by Richard Trost, pianist. Singers chosen to participate in the chorale study voice privately at Vero Voce and are selected based on vocal technique and sight singing abilities.
Chavez (flute), Daniel Eastwood (percussion) and use of projected images, allowing for varied Andrew Schlinder (saxophone). performances including concerts, plays and musical theater. Performances are at 7:30 pm. Friday and Saturday, December 5 and 6. Tickets are $10 More information about the productions and general admission and may be purchased online the many other offerings at Vero Voce can be at www.verovoce.com or by calling (630) 584obtained by visiting the website: verovoce.com, 0139. All major credit cards accepted. or calling (630) 584-0139.
Vero Voce Theater was established in 2012. The Other highlights of the evening will include solos 100-seat theater space allows many different by several of Vero Voce’s staff including Sopranos configurations and creativity is aided by the Dawn Harkins and Melissa Pagano-Arndt, Lila VERO VOCE CHORALE MEMBERS INCLUDE: Riley Brutto, Lauren Freas, Katelyn Jassoy , Miranda Keigher, Erin Kingseed, Amanda Sallmann , Keeley Sherman, all of St Charles; Kayla Bussert and Ryan Bussert of South Elgin; Dan Keller of Aurora; Abageal Phelan of Geneva; Maisie Sweeney and Natalie Sweeney of Batavia; and Melissa Bronski of Big Rock. Photo provided
48 | DECEMBER 2014 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
DINING & ENTERTAINING
kanecountymagazine.com
Create
Lasting Memories! Parties Large or Small: • Girl’s Day Out • Anniversaries • Sunday Breakfast • Ghost Hunting • Murder Mysteries
• Reunions • Private Parties • Showers • Weddings • Ceremonies
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Please call for details Thursday, December 11th, 7 pm Colonial Williamsburg Dinner Thursday, December 25th, Noon Christmas Day Brunch
• Open to the Public for Lunch and Tours on Wednesdays Call Tuesday for Reservations • Private Holiday Brunch or Luncheon for 10 or more people Please call for Details
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The six Herdman children are the meanest, toughest kids in town. So what happens when they take over the church’s annual Christmas pageant? They experience the Christmas story for the first time and help everyone else rediscover its true meaning. Celebrate the spirit of the season with this funny, memorable, outrageous tale that’s been a favorite of young readers since 1972 -- and continues to be one of the best Christmas stories ever. (This production will include adult actors.) Vero Voce is offering showings at 1 and 3 p.m. Saturdays and 3 p.m. Sundays, December 1321. For tickets, visit www.verovoce.com
COMING IN 2015… STUART LITTLE February 14-22, 2015 ROBIN HOOD March 28 - April 4-2015 WILLY WONKA May 16-24, 2015 (This production will include adult actors) kanecountymagazine.com
December D b 5 & 66, 22014 014 – Fri & Sat at 7:30 pm Featuring the Vero Voce Chorale, singing Britten’s Ceremony of Carols and other songs of the season performed by Vero Voce faculty.
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever December 13-21, 2014
Sat at 1 pm & 4:30 pm / Sun at 3 pm. “When the worst family in town takes over the Christmas pageant, everyone fears the worst, but they find it’s the best Christmas pageant ever!”
Vero Voce Theater 951 State Ave., Suite F • St. Charles, IL Tickets: 630-584-0139 • www.verovoce.com
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Looking for more? The Vero Voce Young Performers Series presents “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever.”
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2014 | 49
DECEMBER EVENTS In Kane County
DECEMBER 1 THROUGH DECEMBER 31 - HOLIDAY LIGHTS AT MOOSEHEART 5 P.M., Monday at Mooseheart Child City And School - 255 W. James J. Davis Dr. Mooseheart The 5th Annual “Holiday Lights at Mooseheart” will run every evening from 5 to 9 P.M. beginning November 28 until December 31. Located on the Mooseheart Campus just two miles north of the I-88 Exit on IL Route 31, one of the largest Shows in the Chicago area includes almost 100 displays and a Giant Light Tunnel on a 1.8 Mile route through the Campus, weekend visits from Santa, and a phenomenal viewing experience, all for only $10 a car. All proceeds benefit the Mooseheart children. Visit www.mooseheart.org for more information.
DECEMBER 3 - CHRISTMAS ON BROADWAY Wednesday, 2 p.m. at Fox Valley Repertory 4051 East Main Street, St. Charles Christmas on Broadway Four star-struck holiday tourists are snowbound in a shuttered Broadway theater on Christmas Eve. With nothing but a few trunks filled with costumes, props, and set pieces, they live out a shared dream – starring on Broadway! From your favorite holiday classics like “Baby, It’s Cold Outside,” and “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas,” to seasonal classics from Broadway composers, the evening is a flurry of memorable holiday magic. Rating: PG Price: $32 - $50 DECEMBER 5 AND DECEMBER 6 HOLIDAY HOUSE TOUR, 2014 Friday and Saturday in Downtown Geneva This self-guided tour consists of 5 distinctive homes decorated for the season, a traditional tea and a keepsake decorating and entertaining ideas booklet. Tickets can be ordered by calling the Geneva Chamber(630)232-6060 or toll-free 1-866-443-6382. www.genevachamber.com DECEMBER 5 - GENEVA CHRISTMAS WALK 6 p.m. in Third & State Streets Geneva Downtown On Friday evening Santa Lucia arrives and Santa makes his Geneva debut brought by horse-drawn carriage to open his Gingerbread House. Enjoy
carolers, the Great Tree lighting, roasted chestnuts, Swedish cookies, an old-fashioned candy cane pull, and holiday shopping. DECEMBER 6 AND DECEMBER 7 KANE COUNTY FLEA MARKET Sat 12-5, Sun 7-4 at Kane County Fairgrounds 525 S. Randall Road St. Charles Cost is $5 adults, children 12, younger free. “The Best in the Midwest or Anywhere”. Up to 1,000 dealers display, sell antiques, collectibles, Fancy Junque. A country breakfast is served on Sundays. www.kanecountyfleamarket.com DECEMBER 6 - BLACKBERRY FARM HOLIDAY EXPRESS 2 P.M., Saturday at Blackberry Farm 100 S. Barnes Road Aurora All aboard the Holiday Express train as holiday music plays and twinkling lights glitter! Listen to storytelling of holiday classics, enjoy the festive decorations, crafts, reindeer food bar, Victorian Christmas lights, hayride and vistits with Santa! Price: $0 - $5. $5 Ages 2 and up, Under 2 Free. Contact 630-892-1550. DECEMBER 9 THROUGH DECEMBER 30 - COMMUNITY TREES DISPLAY McCormick Museum at Cantigny Park, 1s151 Winfield Road Wheaton Through Dec. 30, see Christmas trees artfully decorated throughout the museum by seven local non-profit groups with missions linked to Colonel Robert R. McCormick, Cantigny’s benefactor. Visitors are encouraged to vote for their favorite tree. The seven participating nonprofits receive a donation from the Robert R. McCormick Foundation, and the organization with the winning tree (most votes) will receive additional funding. Museum visitors may also donate if they choose. Free with paid parking ($5). DECEMBER 12 - FRANK SINATRA’S 99TH BIRTHDAY PARTY 8 P.M., Friday at Arcada Theatre 105 E Main St, St. Charles Frank Sinatra’s 99th Birthday Party Celebrate the life and music of one of the greats at Frank Sinatra’s 99th Birthday Party. Price: $29 - $39 Tickets: Buy
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Tickets. Frank Sinatra’s Greatest Hits | Best Songs Of Frank Sinatra DECEMBER 12 THROUGH DECEMBER 21 - JACOB MARLEY’S CHRISTMAS CAROL Steel Beam Theatre, 111 W. Main Street St. Charles
Children’s Theatre. A theatrical tour de force for one actor who portrays the familiar characters in Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol. Told from Jacob Marley’s point of view, this is a holiday story for all ages. Call 630.587.8521 for more information or visit www. steelbeamtheatre.com DECEMBER 17 - HOLIDAY SING-ALONG Wednesday at Cantigny Park 1S151 Winfield Road Wheaton The whole family can sing, dance, drum and jingle into the holiday spirit this series of fun and energetic sessions instructed by Wee Heart Music, the local provider of Music Together® classes. Sing-a-long also meets Dec. 10 and 17. For ages birth to 5 years. Fee includes parking. Register at Cantigny.org or 630.260.8162. Price: $32 - $44. Siblings under 9 months old free DECEMBER 18 - LEANN RIMES: ONE CHRISTMAS – THURSDAY 7:30 p.m. at Arcada Theatre 105 E. Main Street, St. Charles 7:30 p.m.. For information or to order tickets, please call 630.962.7000. Tickets can also be ordered on line. Contact 630.962.7000 or visit www.oshows. com DECEMBER 26 AND DECEMBER 27 HOLIDAY SLEIGH RIDES/PRIMROSE FARM at Primrose Farm 5N576 Crane Road St. Charles All ages are invited to enjoy an old-fashioned, tractor-drawn holiday excursion! Bundle up for a tractor-drawn bobsled ride around the fields & trails. Per person fee: $10 residents: $15 nonresidents. Advance registration is required. www. primrosefarmpark.com DECEMBER 29 - WINTER SCAVENGER HUNT 10 AM, Monday at Creek Bend Nature Center, 37W700 Dean St St. Charles Bring the family to LeRoy Oakes for a scavenger hunt in the winter woods. District naturalists will lead the search for nature’s “treasures” in the woods - from mouse tracks to maple seeds to rocks left by glaciers, there will be lots to look for! All ages are welcome; children must be accompanied by an adult. Advance registration is required. Please call 630444-3190 or email programs@kaneforest.com to register. Price: Free
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50 | DECEMBER 2014 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
OUT & ABOUT
kanecountymagazine.com
Life
SOCIAL
Patrons came out in support of the Fox Valley Volunteer Hospice during the annual “Wine, Wings, and Wheels” event, hosted in the Valley Air Service airplane hangar at DuPage Airport, 2350 Aviation Drive in West Chicago. Photos by Joe Perez
kanecountymagazine.com
OUT & ABOUT
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2014 | 51
artist
showcase MARY SOLBERG | Sugar Grove UNTITLED COLOR PHOTOGRAPHY
I have always loved photography but it wasn’t until the past four years that I began pursuing it on a serious level. Initially, I would shoot just about anything and everything as I wanted to expose myself to as many different experiences as possible. But it didn’t take me long to realize that my passion was with the one-on-one sessions. And from there I narrowed the
field even more by focusing on senior high photography. I absolutely love the challenge of working with my clients to create photographs that reflect their own visions and unique personalities.
To submit an entry to Artist Showcase, email artwork, title of piece, name and village of residence of artist, a two- to three - sentence description of the piece, short bio and artist photo to KaneCountyMagazine@shawmedia.com, subject head “Local Artist Submission.”
Saturday, December 13, 2014 2:30 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. Sunday, December 14, 2014 2:30 p.m. • Elgin Master Chorale • Elgin Children’s Chorus • Midwest Dance Collective
A wonderful holiday concert for the whole family including all of your favorite songs of the season.
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Special guest - Santa!
OUT & ABOUT
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2014 | 53
The Heart of Kane County is in the
Giving A non-profit feature
Hope for the Holidays The holiday season is full of excitement and anticipation. We squeeze as much shopping, wrapping, baking, and celebrating as we can into a handful of weeks. Before we know it, we’ll be celebrating a brand new year, and reflecting on all the joys and challenges that marked 2014. As you reflect on this past year, and begin to plan for the journey ahead, remember that TriCity Family Services (TCFS) is here to offer support. Part of the community since 1967, TCFS has been helping children, families, and adults address needs such as: • Anxiety • Depression • Anger Management • Marital Discord • Disruptive Behavior • Conflict with Parents or Siblings • Grief • Post-Divorce Conflict • Bullying • Parenting Our highly skilled therapists are committed to providing compassionate counseling that empowers individuals and promotes family wellness. While counseling remains the core of our mission, we also offer several prevention and early intervention workshops for children and teens that focus on anger management, conflict resolution, positive decision-making, and self-esteem development. For adults, we have support groups specifically for parents, single mothers, and grandparents raising their grandchildren.
Sponsored by
We partner with local employers to offer assistance to employees who are facing challenges at work or in their personal lives. Employers can either enroll in an Employee Assistance Program, or simply contract for individual training seminars, wellness workshops, or counseling sessions as different needs arise. While TCFS is well-known throughout the TriCity area, our newest program, FamilyBased Treatment for Eating Disorders (FBT), has been attracting clients from as far away as Iowa. FBT is an outpatient, familycentered approach to treating children and young adults who are struggling with disordered eating, such as anorexia and bulimia. FBT uses a team model that includes the therapist, the family physician, all family members, and other partners the family wishes to include in order to achieve success. It is a compassionate, supportive treatment approach that recognizes that parents and caregivers are the best resource for their child's recovery.
Recently, a client shared that “coming here and getting therapy was the best thing I have done for myself and my family.” This client is one of nearly 4,000 community members who turned to TriCity Family Services for mental health support this past year. We are here to offer help and hope to everyone in our community. We accept most major insurance plans and Medicaid, and because of our fundraising efforts, no one is ever denied services. In fact, most of our group programs are provided free of charge, and 98% of our clients pay less than the full fee for their counseling sessions. TriCity Family Services provides help and hope to those who are seeking mental health support. We are grateful to be able to provide high-quality, yet affordable care to individuals and families in our community, and thankful for our donors and corporate partners who make our mission possible. We wish you happy holidays and a healthy and hopeful 2015! adno=0275390
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