KCM 5-1-2015

SEVEN

HEAVENLY SPOTS

for Mother’s Day brunch PAGE 22

MAY 2015

Demystifying the

daycare dilemma PAGE 16

Women Celebrating MICHELLE MEYER

helps families find their way PAGE12

REINVENT YOURSELF

with no regrets PAGE 20

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Editors Note It’s May, a month to plant flowers, plan summer vacations and celebrate motherhood. In this issue of Kane County Magazine, we have expanded that recognition to women of all sorts – mothers of course, but also strong business leaders, courageous survivors, hard working volunteers.

You’ll meet Michelle Meyer, who directs one of the most important women and children’s shelters in the area, offering safety and support when it’s most needed.

on all that St Charles has to offer from event coordinator Jamie Blair and find out more about one of the most concerning health issues for women, autoimmune diseases.

We round out the May issue with great places to eat, helpful tips for home and a special Mother’s Day tribute filled with advice and anecdotes from folks in our communities.

We hope you enjoy it as much as we enjoyed putting it together. Happy Mother’s Day!

We will hear from personal coach Kathleen Caldwell, who shares her story of her own second chance at happiness. And we tackle one the working woman’s biggest dilemmas – daycare.

Thanks for reading,

Sherri Dauskurdas Editor

We plant trees with Meghan Provenchar, our local landscaping expert, get the skinny

on the

COVER

Michelle Meyer is director of Mutual Ground, a shelter and support service for women and children.

Discover her story, on page 12.

Photos by Lorae Mundt Salon services by Mario Tricoci Salon and Day Spa, Geneva Stylist - Katheryn Makeup - Laura

4 | MAY 2015 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

kanecountymagazine.com

HEALING SPACE

Published by Shaw Media 333 N. Randall Road, Suite 2 St. Charles, IL 60174 Phone: 630-845-5288 www.kcchronicle.com/magazine GENERAL MANAGER Jim Ringness 630-845-5228 jringness@shawmedia.com EDITOR Sherri Dauskurdas 630-427-6209 sdauskurdas@shawmedia.com DESIGNER Carol Manderfield 630-427-6253 cmanderfield@shawmedia.com MAGAZINE COORDINATOR Kelli Murray 630-427-6263 kmurray@shawmedia.com ACCOUNT MANAGERS Sandra Petti 630-313-0251 spetti@shawmedia.com Tricia Walter 630-845-5272 twalter@shawmedia.com CORRESPONDENTS Melissa Riske, Tom Witom, Elizabeth Harmon, Kelsey O’Connor, Allison Horne, Martha Maddi

HealingSpace founder Marilyn Mitchell, M.D. has integrated holistic practices with traditional medicine for more than 35 years.

HealingSpace… a guided path to wellness, moves to St. Charles.

We provide alternative therapies in health and ��������� ���� �� ��� �������� ������� �� � ������� aspect of wellness, and collectively they provide an integrated, multi-dimensional space for healing. ✥ Integrated Medicine

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✥ Educational Workshops

✥ Homeopathy

✥ Insurance/Payment

PHOTOGRAPHERS Joe Perez, Ron McKinney, Jennifer Kaye, Sandy Bressner, Lorae Mundt, Joe Shuman

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

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HEALING SPACE

847.304.5526 www.healingspacellc.com KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | MAY 2015 | 5

INSIDE WOMEN AND CAREERS 7 CHIPPING IN Woman of Distinction Joanne Spitz gives time and effort in her community.

38

CHANGE OF SCENERY Valley Lodge Tavern opens in St. Charles

27 FEELING APPRECIATED

41 CHARITY BBQ

Family therapist Deb Conley has tips for making Mom feel extra special.

Fox Valley Food for Health plans fundraising event.

Health and Wellness

HOME & LIFESTYLE

48 THE ABCS OF AUTOIMMUNE DISEASE A closer look at one of the most concerning health issues for women.

8 THE POWER OF INTENTION

28 NEVER A DULL MOMENT

Kane County Magazine to host Women’s Power Luncheon

St. Charles comes alive with great summer events and activities!

12 ACTON & COMPASSION

32 PLANT A TREE, PLANT THE FUTURE

50 CALENDAR OF EVENTS

At Mutual Ground, victims of domestic violence get support, respect

Meghan Provencher of Wasco Nursery in St. Charles encourages the habit of putting down roots.

Check out a variety of local events, courtesy of our own Planit Kane website!

Advice and anecdotes in celebration of Mom.

38 FRESH AIRE

16 THE DAYCARE DILEMMA

Fight off springtime allergies with help fro myour home’s HVAC system, and tips from Confident Aire.

Joanne Laudolff of Aurora shares her botanical print, “Sunflowers”

14 THINGS MY MOTHER TAUGHT ME An expanded look at daycare solutions for kids of all ages, all year through.

20 WISDOM IN YOUR INNER VOICE Personal coach and consultant Kathleen Caldwell reflects on her own journey to happiness and success.

22 EDITOR’S CHOICE 7 heavenly spots for Mother’s Day brunch

24 PROS AND CONS OF A WORK-AT-HOME HUSBAND Family columnist Michelle Stien waxes nostalgic for the days when her husband had an office of his own.

6 | MAY 2015 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

40 IN THE CLOSET Design expert Michael Grudecki cleans out the skeletons of style-gone-by to get you the closet of your dreams.

OUT & ABOUT 54 ARTIST SHOWCASE

BUSINESS & CIVIC 56 SOCIAL LIFE Attendees came out to raise the roof, and some much needed funds for Tri-City Family Services.

DINING AND ENTERTAINING 38 CHANGE OF SCENERY Valley Lodge Tavern opens in St. Charles

40 GENEVA EATS New restaurant to open in Gratto location

kanecountymagazine.com

CHIPPING IN Joanne Spitz gives time, effort to those in her community

By MELISSA RUBALCABA RISKE

W

hen Batavia resident Joanne Spitz learned there were children attending her local schools who didn’t have a home, her first emotion was surprise. Her first reaction? Do something about it.

families.”

From personal items to small electronics, a coffee pot and bed frames, the donations came in and went out to families.

“I wanted to know, what could we do?” Spitz said.

“She can’t bear to see anyone hurting or in need of something,” said friend, fellow volunteer and retired educator Nan Phillips of Batavia.

She met with school district officials about what could be done to help. Then she and friend Melinda Kints of Batavia spoke and created Community Helpers Impacting People In Need, where neighbors would be able to help each other. Known as CHIP IN, the initiative was created as an arm of the Batavia Foundation For Educational Excellence.

CHIP IN continues to grow, with fundraisers and increasing support. There have been backpack drives and clothing donations. A partnership with the United Way provided a big boost. With help from a new business, ReHome Center in Geneva, Spitz no longer has to accept and store donations at her home.

“We thought we could try this and it would be this little thing…and then everyone wanted to help,” Spitz said.

Word of the new program spread in the fall of 2013 and within a month the group had gained more than 50 volunteers with members of the Batavia Woman’s Club, Batavia Rotary, Kiwanis, Batavia Main Street Board and several churches had joined the efforts of CHIP IN. “We could not have done it without all of the people who wanted to help,” she said.

The group has collected donations, raised funds and through school liaisons been able to make a difference for homeless families in the school district.

“Thanks to Joanne and our team, families that would not have a roof over their heads are now overcoming homelessness,” said Lisa Palese, director of student services at Batavia Public School District 101. “One of the things that really stands out about Joanne is her philosophy that it’s all about a ‘hand up’ not a ‘hand out’ with the focus on getting families actively involved in making their lives better. She has had a tremendous impact on our students and

kanecountymagazine.com

“Never in my wildest dreams did I think it would take off. It’s just amazing,” Spitz said. “Everyone is connected. That’s what I’ve learned is that we can all work together.”

In addition to helping homeless families through the school, CHIP IN has worked with coordinators at the Batavia Apartments to help families. This spring the group worked with the school district, local churches and the Batavia Foundation to collect more than $27,000 for the purchase of a 12-passenger van to help residents at the apartments get to school programs, doctor appointments and more.

“She’s a leader who is also a worker. She never shies away from pitching in no matter what the task is,” Phillips said. “She’s the conduit that keeps everybody moving and going.”

This spring CHIP IN volunteers, along with residents, members of local churches and businesses organized a prom dress collection, gathering more than 200 dresses, along with accessories for girls from Batavia High School, while Men’s Warehouse will assist with tuxedo rentals for the boys. In the first year for this program Spitz called the results amazing.

devotes her time and energy to her community.

For the last eight years she served on the board of the Batavia Foundation for Educational Excellence and also is involved in the Batavia Public School’s Hall of Honor, which will debut this fall as a way to recognize distinguished alumni, staff and community members. She is an active volunteer with the Friends of TriCity Family services, the Batavia Fine Art Centre, and the Batavia Bicycle Commission.

While Spitz keeps an active calendar she makes time for herself and blocks out her mornings to make time for running and biking. In the past she’s completed a couple half marathons, adventure races and she participated in a bike ride across Iowa.

CHIP IN is just one of the many ways Spitz

WOMEN & CAREERS

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | MAY 2015 | 7

The Power of

INTENTION Kane County Magazine to host Women’s Power Luncheon

I

n this month when we celebrate great women in our lives, Kane County Magazine is offering a chance for women to invest in themselves, with a strong and relevant luncheon and presentation.

“The Power of Intention: The Art of Mastering Your Own Success,” offered Thursday, May 14, is part of a yearly Women’s Power Luncheon series, designed to inspire, inform and engage women, decision makers and leaders on life and business topics. Participants will learn how to use positive, mindful actions to reach goals and achieve success. Takeaways will include how deliberate choices create focus, motivation and opportunities, and how to define goals to create a successful outcome.

Keynote speaker will be Jackie Camacho-Ruiz, JJR Marketing, an award-winning entrepreneur, national speaker, philanthropist and author of six books.

JACKIE CAMACHO-RUIZ, JJR MARKETING

Born in Mexico City, Camacho-Ruiz moved to the United States at age 14, earned her college degree and became trilingual. From a very early age Jackie devoured amazing literature. Authors like Dale Carnegie, Zig Ziglar, Napoleon Hill and other business icons influenced the launch of her award-winning marketing and public relations agency JJR Marketing in 2006. Since then, she has been a regular guest on TV and radio including CBS World News, CBS Chicago, WGN-TV, ABC7 News, WGN Radio 720. She is has been honored with many local and regional awards for her entrepreneurial spirit, business acumen and commitment to community.

Panelists for the event include be Corinne Pierog of Sustainable Leadership Solutions, Julie Simpson from the North Aurora River District Alliance, Beverly Miller of Tranquility Spa and Wellness, Martha Sanchez from State Street Jewelers and Kimberly Elam, of Kimmer’s Ice Cream. Moderator will be previous host Kathy Gresey, editor of the Kane County Chronicle.

8 | MAY 2015 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

WOMEN & CAREERS

kanecountymagazine.com

The luncheon will take place at Eagle Brook Country Club, 2288 Fargo Blvd., Geneva.

Registration opens at 11 a.m.

Mother’s Day May 10th

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Reservations are due Monday, May 11.

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For more information about the program, contact Kelly Buchanan at kbuchanan@ threesixtybluesky.com or 319-471-1202.

WOMEN & CAREERS

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | MAY 2015 | 9

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10 | MAY 2015 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

WOMEN & CAREERS

kanecountymagazine.com

Thursday, May 14, 2015

THE POWER OF INTENTION

The Art of Mastering Your Own Success Registration:

11 a.m.

Luncheon:

11:30 a.m.-1:15 p.m. Ticket Price:

Where:

Eagle Brook Country Club,Geneva

Learn Workshop: 1:30-2:30 p.m.

Lunch $35 Lunch and Learn Workshop $50 Table of 10 $350 or $500*

Ask yourself this question. Are you just living your life or creating it?

By creating your life with positive intention, you harness the power of thought and action and drive yourself to success. Every day we are faced with challenges and obstacles to overcome.

Learn how to use positive, mindful actions to reach your goals and achieve success. Key takeaways from this presentation include: • How to accept where you are, deďŹ ne your goals and create the outcome you desire • The importance of using positive intention to infuse new possibilities personally and professionally • How deliberate choices create focus, motivation, and opportunities to align with others to achieve your dreams KEYNOTE SPEAKER

Jackie Camacho-Ruiz

JJR Marketing Make it Happen Director

Please join us for the Women’s Power Luncheon Series featuring keynote guest speaker Jacqueline Camacho-Ruiz an award-winning entrepreneur, national speaker, philanthropist and author of six books.

The Women’s Power Luncheon Series has been designed to inform, inspire and engage aspiring women, decision makers and leaders on contemporary business and life topics.

MODERATOR

PANELIST

Kathy Gresey

Corinne Pierog

Kane County Chronicle

Sustainable Leadership Solutions

PANELIST

Kimberly Elam Kimmer’s Ice Cream

PANELIST

Beverly Miller Tranquility Spa & Wellness Center

PANELIST

PANELIST

Julie Simpson

Martha Sanchez

North Aurora River District Alliance

State Street Jewelers

Order tickets online at: http://wpl-2015.eventbrite.com If you are interested in purchasing a ticket or sponsoring a table, please contact Haley Pitts at hpitts@shawmedia.com or 630-845-5237.

For event information contact Kelly Buchanan at kbuchanan@threesixtybluesky.com or 319-471-1202.

Priority reservations due by Monday, May 11, 2015. * includes workshop session following the luncheon

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ACTION, GROUNDED IN COMPASSION

At Mutual Ground, victims of domestic violence get support, respect

Photo by Lorae Mundt

For Michelle Meyer, what began as a summer internship turned into a lifelong career of serving her community. Meyer started at Mutual Ground in 1999, and spent the next decade working her way up to executive director. The Aurora-based organization provides a variety of services to more than 1,500 survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault annually. This year, Mutual Ground is celebrating 40 years of offering a safe haven to women and children in Southern Kane and Kendall County counties. Reporter Kelsey O’Connor sat down with Meyer to discuss her 14 years of experience at Mutual Ground.

KELSEY O’CONNOR: How has your experience been at Mutual Ground?

MICHELLE MEYER: It’s an amazing place, it really is. I worked directly with clients who came to get help from us for about 10 years. They say it will take somebody seven times before they actually leave [an abusive relationship], and I’ve seen that to be quite true. And so when you are able to help somebody get into a better situation, it’s just so rewarding. I was able to do that with quite a few women, and it was life changing for me too. Mutual Ground has just been wonderful because I’ve been able to grow both professionally and personally.

Q: WHAT ARE YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES AS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR?

Q: WHAT DO YOU WANT PEOPLE TO UNDERSTAND ABOUT DOMESTIC AND SEXUAL VIOLENCE?

A: My first and foremost responsibility is fundraising and making sure that we have the money to provide the service. Also, I am promoting awareness of domestic violence and sexual violence and what we do at Mutual Ground. That’s been one of my biggest jobs, just getting out into the community as much as possible and letting people know that we’re there and that we help people. I was very surprised to see, in the whole 14 years I’ve been there, how many people, even in the city of Aurora, who didn’t really know what we did.

A: The biggest thing I want people to know is that anybody can become a victim of domestic violence or sexual assault. It is happening in every community. The issue is that it’s happening behind closed doors so that you can’t see it all the time. We serve close to 1,500 clients a year, and that’s just the people that are calling to get help. There are so many people who are struggling silently, so we really want to make sure that everybody is aware that this is going on.

uFor more information or to donate to Mutual Ground, Inc., visit online at mutualground.org.

If you are a victim of domestic violence seeking assistance, call the 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline at 630-897-0080 or our Sexual Assault Hotline at 630-897-8383.

12 | MAY 2015 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

WOMEN & CAREERS

kanecountymagazine.com

A: We do have a shelter, we have 28 beds and seven cribs in our shelter. But the shelter is actually a smaller piece of what we do, probably the bigger piece is individual counseling with both domestic violence victims and sexual assault victims. We have a youth program that goes into area schools and does counseling with kids. We have a prevention program in close to 80 schools in our area doing programs from preschool all the way to college. And then we have our court advocate program, which is where I started. Court advocates go with victims to court and help them with orders of protection, help them navigate criminal justice system. We see approximately 300 clients a year in that program. And we have a hospital advocacy program, where we are responding to local emergency rooms and they call us when a victim of domestic violence or sexual assault presents.

Q: WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF BRINGING AWARENESS PROGRAMS INTO LOCAL SCHOOLS? A: The benefits are huge, and in fact that’s probably one of our most important programs.

If we can get in there and talk to kids about what a healthy relationship looks like and what dating violence and sexual assault is, then they hopefully won’t have to deal with that in their life. Ultimately, domestic violence is a learned behavior. If [children] see domestic violence in their house and nobody intervenes and tells them that it’s wrong, then they’re going to end up leaving and being in the same type of relationship, either being an abuser or becoming a victim of an abusive relationship. If we can get in there and intervene at a young age, hopefully we can prevent some of that from happening.

Q: WHAT SHOULD SOMEONE DO IF THEY EXPECT A LOVED ONE HAS BEEN A VICTIM OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE OR SEXUAL ASSAULT? A: Be there to listen without judgment. And then I would just make sure that you give them Mutual Ground’s information. We have two crisis lines that are open 24/7. I would have them call Mutual Ground and let them know that we’re not going to judge them, everything is confidential and we can provide them with the type of help they need. At Mutual Ground, we don’t tell people what we think they should do. We listen first and foremost, and then we help them by giving them tools that they can use to keep themselves safe. kanecountymagazine.com

Photo by Jennifer Kaye

Q: WHAT SERVICES DOES MUTUAL GROUND PROVIDE TO THE COMMUNITY?

OWNER DESIGNER Ingrid Rowlett

C

ustom cabinetry was a natural career path for Ingrid Erikson Rowlett (pictured center above), who grew up in the family cabinetry business located at 612 S. 1st Street, Geneva, IL. . I learned my trade from two of the finest, my parents Helge and Mai-Lis Erikson and have been Specializing in cabinetry design for over 40 year,” I have sawdust in my blood “(Ingrid says).

“I love the design aspect and working with people to design their cabinetry,” Ingrid says.

Her experience in cabinetry helps make customers feel comfortable, especially when they may not have a clear idea of what they are looking for, a state of the art 3-D cad system helps our customers to visualize their design, she adds.

Ingrid says, customers want quality products and she is glad she is able to accommodate their expectations. Similar to her father’s cabinetry, we sell Fieldstone Cabinets from Sioux Falls, South Dakota. We also provide small custom work, clients can draw a design and we can build it for them.

If it’s cabinetry, we can provide it. Kitchens, bathrooms, bookshelves and entertainment centers. I.B. Quality Cabinets provides cabinets for residential and commercial buildings.

Wood cabinetry samples, such as maple, cherry, oak, and alder are always available to take home.

Ingrid says that her shop also provides countertops. Quartz, Solid surface, granite, butcher block, and laminate counters are available for customers to make a selection to best fit their budget and the look the desire.

“We are a one stop shop with our sister companies, Brothers Custom Carpentry and GRS Doors and Windows.” I.B. Quality Cabinetry can help you with cabinetry installation, countertops, flooring, and windows, electrical and plumbing. Do you love your house, but want to ditch your kitchen? Call I.B. Quality Cabinets, we as a team, provide the knowledge customers seek to help make quality decisions, whether you project is large or small, we are happy to help. For more information, visit www.ibqualitycabinets.com.

Pictured above (from right to left) Jessica Guglielmi (Ingrid’s daughter-in-law), Ingrid Erikson Rowlett (Owner), Joanie Quick (Ingrid’s dear friend).

I.B. QUALITY CABINETS INC. Complete SService Co ervice in Cabinets, Cabinets Countertops Ca Co

I.B. Quality Cabinets| 612 S. First St., Geneva, IL 630.262.9133 | www.ibqualitycabinets.com

WOMEN & CAREERS

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | MAY 2015 | 13

Things my mother taught me…

In this month of May, we traditionally celebrate motherhood, so we asked some area residents to share with our readers some advice and anecdotes from their own mothers.

Here is what they had to say: parenthood, me as young mother and her as new grandmother. It was rocky, at times with many phrases like, “That’s Kaneland Arts Initiative what I did for you and you turned out Mom was born in New York in 1940, a fine,” from Mom after hearing, “This is how Chinese American, the 13th of 15 siblings it’s done now,” from me. But in the end and she was an amazing product of that we made our peace with each other, upbringing. Mom was both New Yorker bonding indelibly over parenthood one and Chinese, with a bright, brassy and last time, as Mom was being prepped honest attitude toward life, a scrappy for her brain surgery, when the cancer sense of survival, and a deep dedication moved to it final resting place. Mom to family and culture, faithfully honoring grabbed my arm, looked me in the eye, her parents and her heritage all the and said, “You. Are the best mom for while crossing the amazing quagmire your children. Do not ever forget that. of the 1950s and ‘60s. She married my I love you and am very proud of you.” dad, a quiet, Irish-Norwegian seminary Her journey lasted only about a month student from Minnesota in 1963 and more, but it gave me the right amount moved to Illinois to support her husband of time to learn that our moms are our and become a Midwestern United heroes, even though they never choose Methodist minister’s wife. Growing up, I that role. It gives me the strength and didn’t appreciate her nearly as I should courage every day to be a mom. have. We finally made a joined effort in

Maria Paulson

Jackie Camacho Ruiz JJR Marketing

“You have a special gift.” When one of the most important people in your life tells you that you have a “special gift of love for others,” it changes your perspective about life itself, giving you the strength to conquer any obstacle. This is what I have always heard from my mom who has been instrumental in my success for many reasons, including exposing me to motivational books, events and experiences that have shaped my perspective about success. It is thanks to my amazing mom that I have never lost sight of serving others as the solid foundation of achievement.

"Our library is here for the community" Downtown St. Charles Partnership

One of the things my mother taught me was never to pass up a challenge. She encouraged me to not let fear of failure or the unknown stop me from tackling something bigger than me. I have recalled that piece of advice many times in my life when I faced something and I didn’t have all of the answers up front. What I’ve found is that I have been able to accomplish things I didn’t know I could because I had permission to learn some things along the way.

Gloria Bunce

CASA Kane County My mother always said to me “Don’t assume everyone is having a good day, because we all have crosses to bare and a simple smile can go a long way.”

Photo by Jennifer Kaye

Lynne Schwartz DIRECTOR Christine Lazaris

A

s the director of Geneva Public Library, Christine Lazaris has one major goal in mind: how to ensure the library meets the needs of a 21st century community.

In her first year, the library is surveying the community, and Lazaris is focusing her efforts on reaching out to individuals, organizations and groups, to discuss what the library could and should be.

"Our library is here for the community," she said. "A library, as Andrew Carnegie said, is a people's university, open to all with no barriers to entry. This is the place where people can transform their lives because there's no limit on learning."

Lazaris became the library director in June 2014, joining Geneva from the Skokie Public Library, where she had been manager of access services. Lazaris has over 20 years of experience in both public and academic libraries. Lazaris has advanced degrees in art history from Northern Illinois University and in library science from Dominican University.

Lazaris is a Fox Valley resident who lives in St. Charles with her husband and children. In her role as director of Geneva's library, she enjoys the opportunity to serve her community. "I welcome the opportunity to contribute to the intellectual, social, cultural, and recreational growth of residents in our district," she said.

To achieve those goals, Lazaris will work closely with the Geneva Library Board to draft a three-year strategic plan that will address how to position the library to meet the needs of society in an ever increasing digital and mobile world. Topping the priority list is the library's undersized aging facilities, lack of parking, accessibility challenges and ongoing technology needs. Meanwhile, the board has hired an architectural firm that specializes in library planning to conduct an objective, demographic-based Library Needs Assessment. The analysis will help the board identify long-term space requirements for services, programs, and technology to serve Library District residents in the years ahead.

"This is important work for us to do to provide for our future, the future of our children, and the future of our grandchildren," she said. “Our forefathers provided the community with a library that lasted over a century. It’s our turn to pay it forward and do the same for future generations.”

Geneva Public Library District | 127 James St., Geneva, IL (630) 232-0780 | www.gpld.org WOMEN & CAREERS

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | MAY 2015 | 15

THE DAYCARE DILEMMA

While the choice can be challenging, options abound

By ELIZABETH HARMON

It’s a dilemma most parents face, whether they work outside the home or not. Who cares for their children when they can’t, and what’s the best fit for their family?

Most parents face a dilemma, whether or not they work outside the home. Who cares for their children when they cannot, and what is the best fit for their family?

Kane County families have a wealth of options available. To help parents navigate the sometimes overwhelming array of choices, we’ll highlight a few local programs and businesses, committed to the care and development of your child.

16 | MAY 2015 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

CHILD CARE/DAY CARE For families in need of all-day care, Kane County has centers that open early and stay open to 6 p.m., or later. “In general, these programs are for parents who work or are in school full-time,” says Lisa Johnson, Director of Child Care Services for Elgin Community College.

Centers offer meals and snacks, and may provide infant and after-school care.

The centers also integrate educational components. “Because young children learn through play, everything they do is educational in some aspect. Some programs might offer two to three hours of more structured activities,” says Johnson.

When choosing a program, Johnson says that parents should be welcome to drop in any time and observe what is going on in the classroom.

While the amount of structure will vary from program to program, Johnson says a balance of structured time and free play is ideal. In addition, the center should follow or exceed the states recommended ratios of children to caregivers. For infants, that means one WOMEN & CAREERS

caregiver for every four babies, for toddlers, age 15 to 24 months, it’s one caregiver to every five children. For two year olds, the ratio is one to eight, and one to ten for three to five year olds.

“That’s the very minimum. Rarely do we have one adult caring for four infants,” says Johnson.

ECC’s Early Childhood Lab School is open to students, faculty and staff of the college, and accepts children from six weeks old, through age 5. In September, the school will launch a pre-kindergarten program, which is open to the community.

For more information visit www.elgin.edu/ students.aspx?id=882

PRESCHOOL Preschool’s differ from day care, in that they’re of limited length, usually 90 minutes to a couple of hours, depending upon the age of the child, and may only meet 2 or 3 days a week.

Krista Mulready, early childhood preschool and day camp supervisor for the St. Charles Park District, says her program is a great option for kids who are cared for at home by a parent or kanecountymagazine.com

Solutions for Long Term Care, Inc.

a sitter. “Our programs are one-and-a-half to two-and-a-half hours, so it’s similar to a halfday kindergarten program,” she says.

Preschools can be independent, or affiliated with churches, private schools, public school districts, or park districts, and typically take a more structured approach to learning. “Kids learn through play, but there’s also a focus on academics and kindergarten readiness,” Mulready says.

When evaluating programs, Mulready encourages parents to visit the preschool, take a tour and ask questions. Preschools follow the same caregiver to child ratios as daycare centers. It’s also good to ask about potty-training requirements, security policies, curriculum, snacks and field trips.

LONG TERM CARE PLANNING SPECIALIST

Find a complete list of questions here: www. babycenter.com/0_preschool-directorteacher-interview_1450420.bc Requesting parent handbooks from each program visited is another useful method of evaluating and comparing preschools.

Carol Murin

It’s also important to observe the interactions between teachers and children, and between the children themselves. “It’s most important that the parent feels comfortable with the program. A preschool may be perfectly fine, but if the parent doesn’t feel comfortable, it’s not the right fit,” she says.

C

Pottawatomie Preschool accepts children ages two through five in its varied programs. “We’re a competitively priced, community based program and we want to make sure people from the community feel comfortable bringing their children here,” says Mulready.

“Today’s advances in medicine have changed the landscape of how we need to look at retirement and aging,” Murin says. “However, our culture has not yet caught up with that reality. LTC planning is naturally resisted by almost everyone, as it’s not pleasant to think about a time when we will lose our independence.”

For more information and schedules visit www.st-charlesparks.org/Programs/ preschool.asp

“Just like other life’s emergencies, there is no warning before an LTC event occurs – it just does. Without a plan, families face significant financial and emotional challenges when a loved one needs care,” she says.

IN-HOME CARE

arol Murin was caring for her father-in-law when she realized long term care planning was a subject people knew very little about. Now, 23 years later after starting Solutions for Long Term Care, Inc., she is known for her in-depth product knowledge and industry experience in helping clients find appropriate, affordable planning solutions.

Parents that travel frequently, work long hours, or families with children ranging from infants to school age, may want to consider hiring a come-and-go or live-in nanny.

Unfortunately, some people wait too long to discuss LTC planning, not understanding that their health matters. Beginning the conversation earlier, allows for better options to access coverage and to lower costs.

With a come-and-go arrangement, a nanny works pre-determined hours and is paid an hourly wage. When additional hours are needed, the family pays her for the extra time.

“Most of our placements are for come and go arrangements,” says Monika Januskyte owner and founder of Monicare Nannies

Most important to Murin is listening to clients concerns, helping them understand all their options, and being able to make a difference for them and their families.

630.482.3150 • Fax: 630.482.3149 Cell: 630.707.1217 www.ltc-xprt.com • cmurin@dls.net

-Continued on page 18 kanecountymagazine.com

WOMEN & CAREERS

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | MAY 2015 | 17

-Continued from page 17 and Household Staffing, a suburban placement agency with clients throughout the Chicago area.

“Come-and-go nannies have a lot of longevity and might remain with a family for a number of years,” she says.

A live-in nanny stays with a family usually five days a week. She has predetermined hours as well, but can be available at times not convenient for a come-and-go caregiver, such as early mornings. Her compensation is a weekly salary and she also is provided room and board.

“A family that might benefit from a live in nanny is one where both parents are doctors, and they don’t have a set schedule, or they are business owners and have to travel frequently,” says Januskyte.

Screening and hiring a nanny can be a daunting process, which is where agencies like Monicare come in.

Families will pay a placement fee to an agency and work together through the hiring process, which typically takes about a month, Januskyte says.

Monicare works with a pool of pre-screened candidates who meet a set of 24 minimum requirements, including having at least two years of experience, a clean driving record, CPR certification, and passing a variety of background checks that cover national and county criminal records, national sex offender and terrorist registries.

The agency looks at the location of the family, and tries to pair them with nannies who live no more than thirty minutes away. The agency also considers the family’s needs and the nanny’s strengths. “If a family has toddlers and school age children, they’re going to want someone who is good at managing a lot of tasks and schedules,” Januskyte says.

For more information, visit www. monicare.com/domestic-staffingchicago-nanny-agency

18 | MAY 2015 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

UNPLUGGED AND ACTIVE Summer day camps offer options for that ‘in-between’ age group

By ALLISON HORNE

S

chool’s out for summer in just a few weeks, but what does a working parent do with 11 weeks and a child who’s too old for the sitter and too young to be home all day alone?

Local summer camps are a viable option for working parents this summer. With no video games, lazy days or down time during the day, parents can rest assured their children are getting valued supervision partnered with the most fun-filled summer they can possibly enjoy.

“One thing that’s great about the YMCA is that we really focus on staying active,” Chris Guihan, school age coordinator at the Taylor Family YMCA, says.

“We don’t like a lot of down time, because that’s what kids are doing for 8-9 months out of the year.

Electronics have no place at camp.”

SUMMER DAY CAMPS

Krista Mulready, preschool and day camp supervisor at the St. Charles Park District, says.

The Adventure Day Camp features camp basics like songs, games, hikes and swimming, yet also includes a field trip once a week. The On the Go Camp also includes some camp basics, but all participants will be traveling on special field trips four days a week.

“It’s safe and fun and it’s a structured environment for children to go in the summer,” Mulready says.

You get to play with friends, meet new people. That’s what summer is all about. Being outside, being active and having a good time with their friends.”

The Taylor YMCA offers a Traditional Day Camp that is divided into four different age groups for kids.

Activities feature sports, songs, swimming, and weekly off-site field trips.

Local YMCAs and Park Districts have plenty of different camps to offer this summer for kids that have parents that work full-time.

“The goal is to send the kids home exhausted every day and begging to come back,” Guihan, who sends her own four kids to the camp every year, says.

“They’re definitely not bored while they’re here.”

The St. Charles Park District has three all-day camp offerings, including the all-day Kindergarten Camp, the Adventure Day Camp for grades 1-4 and the On the Go Camp for grades 5-6. Parents have the option to enroll their children in either a five-day camp or a three-day option.

Every day that the kids aren’t on a field trip, they are spending time swimming and doing other on-site activities. Parents have both the option of a threeday camp and a five-day camp, depending on their needs.

“The three-day option is great for parents that work part-time or even if they stay at home during the week and simply want to send their kids to camp,”

While many camps run from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., some also offer before-and-after care for parents that cannot pick their child up right on time.

WOMEN & CAREERS

BEFORE AND AFTER CARE

kanecountymagazine.com

“The before and after care is really great because it allows working parents to drop off their child for some fun-based, exciting activities,” Mulready says.

B-Shique Brow Boutique

Additional fees for children that stay before and after camp vary at the St. Charles Park District. The Taylor Summer Day Camp runs from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. with extended hours that run from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. for no additional fee.

For middle-schoolers who aren’t quite ready for a summer alone, or teens who may be looking for a social summer option that also gives them valuable work experience, many YMCAs and Park Districts offer a counselor-intraining program.

“The foundation of the program is to give the children an idea what it would be like to be a counselor,” Mulready says. “They’ll learn all the basics of teaching and although they’ll never have sole responsibility of the children, it’ll give them a chance to be a leader and see if it’s something they’re interested in pursuing.”

For most teen programs like the ones at the St. Charles Park District and Taylor Family Branch YMCA, letters of recommendation are a must to enter the program, as well as an interview process.

“Right now, we have three people on staff that were in the counselor-in-training program,” Mulready says. “It’s great.”

Teens who still want to partake in the fun of camp can sign up for the St. Charles Park District’s Traveling Teen Camp, which is a four-day camp Monday through Thursday that includes daily field trips. A full schedule of planned events can be found at the Park District’s website, but some of the events include the Field Museum, Adler Planetarium, Pelican Harbor, Magic Waters, the Brookfield Zoo and much more.

Photo by Sandy Bressner

OPTIONS FOR TEENS

OWNER

Mary Jane Schwarz

B

-Shique Brow Boutique has been shaping brows in the Fox Valley since 2006. Owner Mary Jane Schwarz worked as an esthetician for seven years when she decided to stay home and raise her newly born son, Nigel. After a few years, she was ready to go back to work and opening the boutique was a great opportunity to fulfill her passion – providing esthetician services in a community she loved.

“I decided to stop doing facials and just focus on waxing,” Schwarz said. “I loved waxing, but brows were my specialty.”

The boutique offers waxing to men and women for face and body, as well as eye lash extensions and tinting.

“We like to call ourselves a ‘Vintage American Boutique.’ Simplicity and elegance is our goal,” Schwarz said. “Our grandmother’s photos from when they were young hang on our walls. Classic American beauties! As long your brows, cheeks and lips look good, you are set to go.”

Schwarz said her staff are kind, professional women who keep their focus on their clients’ needs.

“Each of them has their own unique, wonderful talents,” Schwarz said. “I am very blessed I have found them!”

B-Shique Brow Boutique 318 W. Main St., St. Charles kanecountymagazine.com

WOMEN & CAREERS

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | MAY 2015 | 19

Listen to the wisdom of your inner voice With KATHLEEN CALDWELL

S

unday, March 18, 2001 was the scariest day of my life. I had IV needles in my arms, electrodes stuck all over my body and people in lab coats scrambling all around me. I was alone, confused and scared.

That morning, I woke up with my heart racing and feeling so dizzy and nauseated that I had to crawl to the bathroom to throw up. I said to myself, “This cannot be happening to me! I can’t be having a heart attack. It’s just not possible. I’m young and healthy. I’m a marathon runner, for heaven’s sake!”

At the hospital, they thought otherwise.

Once I reached the emergency room, the staff wasted no time medically slowing my heart rate and convert it back to a normal rhythm. All the while, I was in mental and emotional shock about being in the hospital.

I was 39 years old and never had any cardiac problems or any other medical issues. This certainly was not the script I had written for my life.

After a battery of tests, I was diagnosed with new onset Atrial Fibrillation; a fast and irregular heart beat. The doctors told

me that my heart was healthy, and that a convergence of physiological, genetic and stress related events caused my condition.

While there were certainly medical reasons for my condition, I also knew that my heart was broken and empty in a spiritual sense.

I had lost my purpose, passion and most importantly, my love of life.

My body was responding to my inner voice’s message, one that I had ignored for so long. In hindsight, I clearly saw and heard all of the warning signs, but either chose to ignore them or simply failed to act. I can now see that the two days that I spent in the hospital were a call to action. I remember as I was being discharged, I stood outside on the steps and made a pledge to God and myself that I wouldn’t return. This medical emergency was a gift for me to seriously reevaluate my priorities and take action.

The journey to that pivotal day was one I’d taken slowly. It came about from of a series of small daily decisions about my health, career, love and family. I had a successful career in the technology industry. And by all appearances, I had the world on a string.

I lived in a beautiful apartment overlooking Lake Shore Drive in Chicago, had the sports car in the valet garage and the mink coat in the closet. Everything looked great on the outside. But on the inside, I was empty and lost. I said my family was the most important thing to me, but I hadn’t seen my family in ages. I was just too busy and overcommitted.

For many months I had heard the whisper in my head and heart, “slow down,” but I ignored it and kept moving along. I remember telling myself I would take a long vacation after next quarter’s sales results came in. Of course, the real vacation never came, and I never took the time. Meanwhile, the whisper grew louder and louder.

Kathleen Caldwell is president of Caldwell Consulting Group and the founder of the WHEE Institute ® (Wealthy, Healthy, Energetic Edge) She works with leaders and teams to energetically and enjoyably produce record breaking results.

20 | MAY 2015 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

Up until that day, everyone else’s priorities came first on my list. My career and the business deals always came before my health and well being. I knew that had

WOMEN & CAREERS

to change immediately. I realized that connecting with people and being in service to them made me the happiest. That realization alone, however, could not help me answer a fundamental question: “How could I reinvent my life?”

A week after leaving the hospital, I hired an executive coach and mentor to help me find my way. I created a plan on how I could use my gifts and knowledge in a new career. This plan gave me the confidence and certainty that I was working toward something bigger in my life. During this time, I felt my heart and health getting stronger each day.

Soon after, I was taken off of the heart medications and I resumed my normal physical fitness routine. Through this process, my life became meaningful again.

Over the next couple of years, my coaching and consulting business prospered and I was back in the business of my life.

When I share my story, many people ask me, “Do you have any regrets?” I respond with one – that I did not see the signs and take action sooner. It took a medical emergency for me to finally know the truth and take action.

Through this journey back to love, I learned to listen and trust the wisdom of my inner voice and my body, and take better care of myself. Now, before I make a personal or professional decision, I stop and listen to my head and my heart. I ask myself, “Why am I doing this?” “Is this action in my highest good?” Because of this practice, my intuition and confidence are now stronger than ever. I now operate from my “why” in life - to help people find the love in their work, their bodies and their lives. I ask myself every day, “How can my experiences be an inspiration and catalyst for people to examine and change their lives?” This is my guiding principle and underlying motivation in my work and life.

kanecountymagazine.com

Tiffany Lewis Skincare

OWNER Tiffany Lewis

T

his month will mark 10 years of business for Tiffany Lewis Skincare.

After working for seven years as a lead esthetician in a conglomerate salon/spa, owner Tiffany Lewis learned the limitations of that type of environment. She wanted to fashion a boutique spa where her clients could have it all. It would be a professional yet personable environment, where she could allot the time to provide customized and effective facial treatments and a luxurious, relaxing experience for clients.

Lewis stepped away from a corporate-sponsored spa environment to have the freedom to delve into the latest trends and advancements in esthetics. This endeavor has led to her own skincare line, one designed with superior quality ingredients to achieve the best possible results.

“Our clients love the line, and I am proud that the products are bettering the health of their skin,” Lewis said.

She also has always been passionate about sculpting perfect eyebrows.

Photos by Ron McKinney

kanecountymagazine.com

“When I opened the doors to my business a decade ago, the Fox River Valley was lacking in options for true artistic eyebrow shaping, so I aspired to fill a void in the market by offering expert eyebrow design services,” Lewis said.

Tiffany Lewis Skincare 311 S. 2nd St., St. Charles 630.485.1318 www.tlskincare.com

WOMEN & CAREERS

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | MAY 2015 | 21

EDITOR’S CHOICE

7

heavenly choices for Mother’s Day Brunch HOTEL BAKER, ST CHARLES If you want to impress Mom, there’s perhaps no choice more regal than the historic Hotel Baker in downtown St Charles. A buffet of smoked fish, swordfish peppedew, chicken-fried duck and beef sirloin is complemented by such favorites of Belgian waffles, custom omelets, sticky buns and assorted artisan pastries. Visit hotelbaker.com or call 630-584-2100 for reservations.

FRANCESCA’S

BY THE RIVER, ST. CHARLES Celebrate Mother’s Day at Francesca’s by the River, with classic Italian fare and a friendly hospitable atmosphere in the heart of Downtown St. Charles.

Francesca’s will be serving a special brunch buffet from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. and the regular dinner menu from 4-8 p.m.

OSCAR SWAN, GENEVA Enjoy a plentiful buffet filled with delicious choices like fresh fruit salad, beef tenderloin carved to order, and scrambled eggs with various sides. Oscar Swan Country Inn offers delicious food in a quaint country atmosphere that will make you feel like you are brunching at home.

Seatings at 10 a.m. noon and 2 p.m.

Make reservations by calling 630-2320173. Visit www.oscarswan.com

NICHE RESTAURANT, GENEVA The contemporary American cuisine and locally-sourced ingredients on the menu at Niche are worth a celebration any day of the week. But extra special is Niche’s Mother’s Day Brunch featuring such choices as Chorizo cheddar grits, brown sugar glazed bacon, duck egg hash or smoked salmon omelet, along with creatively tempting sides, homemade brioche and delightful desserts. Served 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. Call 630-262-1000 or visit nichegeneva.com.

Sarah Tennant

WILDWOOD, GENEVA A carving station features roast prime rib, honey baked ham and roast turkey.

Savory omelets and pasta dishes are made to order, while buffet tables present a host of other breakfast and luncheon specialties, seafood, fruits and salads. Finish the meal with homemade desserts, tarts and sweets from the dessert table. Moms receive offered a complimentary flute of champagne. Brunch seating begins at 9:30 am and will continue through 2:30 pm. The dining room will be open to accommodate even the largest of family gatherings. Make reservations online at www.wildwoodsteak.com or by calling 630-377-8325.

TURF ROOM, NORTH AURORA Head to the Turf Room for a buffet brunch complete with Prime rib, fresh seafood, and traditional breakfast fare as well as creative entrees including roast turkey and squash meatballs, potato and leek rigatoni, and black pepper and mascarpone cakes. Kids of all ages will delight in the pizza station, the made to order omelets, and the desserts and breakfast breads. Call 630-906-9322 or visit theturfroomrestaurant.com

S

arah Tennant is a professional photographer whose combination of experience and ability to creatively tell stories has shaped her into an engaging and knowledgeable artist. After earning her degree in photography, Sarah has started her own photography business with a focus on commercial work delivered at a competitive price. She offers a wide range of services to her clients, including professional portraiture, delectable food photography, spotless product imagery, gleaming interior spaces, and creative fashion pieces. Sarah’s ambition is to make every client’s experience enjoyable and memorable with her unique professional perspective, premier photography, and timely follow up. Contact Sarah today for more information about rates and packages. (Go to www.sarahtennant-photography.redframe. com for a close up look at Sarah’s complete portfolio.)

TWO BROTHERS ROUNDHOUSE, AURORA Pair innovative comfort food with some of the highest-regarded craft brewed beer in the region at Two Brothers Roundhouse in downtown Aurora. Call 630-264-2739 for reservations.

Wine Consultant

PHOTOGRAPHER

630.779.7552 stennant132@gmail.com

www.sarah-tennant-photography.redframe.com WOMEN & CAREERS

Nancy Manisco

I

have a passion for wine!

Naturally, when seeking a “2nd life” career, after 35 years as a Realtor, I chose the wine industry.

Possessing an entrepreneurial spirit , Direct Sales appealed to me because of the ability be my own boss and work from home.

As an Independent Wine Consultant, I enjoy offering private wine tastings. At Tastings we sample 6 new wines, paired with cheese and chocolates. Guests can find new favorites in the comfort of their home, among friends .

Additionally, I enjoy the privilege of empowering men and women of all ages to have their own business.

The freedom and flexibility are priceless!

WineShop at Home has been a life-changing experience for me!

Nancy Manisco, Independent Wine Consultant WineShop at Home 630-802-7161 www.WineWithNancy.com www.facebook.com/nancyswinetasting KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | MAY 2015 | 23

The pros and cons of a work-at-home husband My husband recently took on a new role where he works from home, but has to travel out-of-town slightly more—a trade off for sure.

Now, I have two disclaimers before I go on.

1. Before you get any ideas about coming and breaking into my house knowing my husband may or may not be home, you should know we have turned our home into a virtual Fort Knox with an ADT security system complete with motion sensors and video surveillance. As if our dog – who threatens every passerby with 24 | MAY 2015 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

her ferocious bark, wasn’t enough to ward off bad guys, we now have an elaborate system in place. The system also allows my husband to watch our every move while he’s gone, make sure I lock the front door and mess with me by turning lights on and off.

But when he’s home, he’s home. This helps me a great deal as we are getting the kids on and off the bus, doing homework, driving to after school activities, and it allows us to have dinner as a family more often. It also gives him some perspective on the chaos of our daily “routine.”

2. I love my husband. He is a good man who loves our children and me very much. He appreciates me, what I do for him and never takes me for granted. He provides a good life for us and I appreciate how hard he works despite his shortfalls in the area of laundry and putting the kids to bed.

Of course, having him around more often was a bit of an adjustment for me. I was used to a nice quiet house once the kids got on the bus.

I was able to clean up the kitchen and have it stay clean for at least six hours. I was able to do my freelance writing in peace and quiet. I also was able to sneak in a nap before the kids got home in order to prepare for the onslaught of energy that barreled through the door at 3:45 each afternoon.

Now that I have that clear, let’s talk about how our life has shifted over the last several months.

My husband used to work downtown, which meant about three hours a day commuting. He left the house at 5:45 a.m. and didn’t return home until about 6:15 p.m., when he didn’t have an event downtown that would get him home later. He also traveled out-of-town occasionally, so I’m no stranger to holding down the homestead on my own.

Now, he travels more regularly, leaving me alone with the kids on a fairly regular basis.

WOMEN & CAREERS

I have since traded that for the man with The. Loudest. Voice. In. The. Universe. I had to put headphones on and listen to spa music to cancel out the sound of him wheeling and dealing all day long. Best of all, he has a wireless headset for his phone so he walks around the house and participate in conference calls making it hard for me to escape his reallife Glenngarry Glenn Ross speeches. I found myself coming up with errands, like taking all kanecountymagazine.com

Engstrom Plaza 716 West State St., Geneva

our change buckets to the bank, just to get out of the house.

(Entrance on 7th Street)

I learned quickly that my sink never will be empty again as long as he is here eating meals every three hours. I suppose the fact that he simply leaves his dishes for me to clean is better than the month’s supply of dirty Tupperware he would collect before bringing home, leaving me to gag over the ungodly stench when I opened them.

630-262-1878

Fax: 630-845-8515

www.josefsmeats.com Hours:

And just when I’ve gotten used to the volume of his voice and dishes, he’s gone on a four-day trip. At first I kind of enjoy the time and space and the fact that I have one less child to take care of. But that is quickly replaced with the fact that I miss having him around. I miss talking to him and hanging out at night after the kids go to bed, having dinner as a family and the extra set of hands.

I’m a pretty independent gal, so I feel comfortable being by myself, but it still sucks adjusting from one extreme to the next every week.

Of course, in no time, he arrives home. Most times he called me on his way home from the airport with a request for dinner. He returns with plenty of laundry, spreads his briefcase on the island in my kitchen and I quickly remember that having “an extra set of hands” can have two meanings.

Best of all, he makes up for being gone all week by taking the kids to Toys R Us to buy Nerf guns and triggering a gun fight that riles the kids up right before bed.

My prodigal son has arrived home and just like the story goes, all is forgiven. I am just happy to have him back.

Tuesday - Friday: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM We are closed Mondays

Let Us Cook for Mom this Mother’s Day Filet Mignons ~ Boneless Ribeye ~ Prime Rib We dry age choice & prime cuts of American Beef and cut them to your specs!

Memorial Day Monday, May 25th

Homemade Italian or Polish Sausage Brats • Aged Tender Steaks BBQ Ribs • Ditka-Style Chops

Signature Burgers for the Grill (12oz. each) • Tuscan • Blue Cheese • Bacon-Onion Cheddar • Jalapeno Jack • Thrill on the Grill And Our Own Potato Salad What’s a party without Josef ’s potato salad?

Write This Down 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

Call early for choice dates!

WOMEN & CAREERS

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BOOK YOUR GRADUATION PARTY NOW!

with Michelle Stien

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | MAY 2015 | 25

Deborah L. Conley, LLC Helping to get families back in line Child Therapist

Available Services • Individual Therapy • Play Therapy • Family Therapy • Trauma Consultation • School Consultation & Treatment Planning

Serving children and their families from birth to 13.

847-261-2911

www.dconleytherapy.com

• Academic Underachievement • Adoption/Bonding & Attachment • Developing Schedules & Routines • Sleep Difficulties • Behavioral Issues • Attention Deficits (ADHD) • Depression • Family Conflict • Parenting Concerns • Domestic Violence • Physical & Sexual Abuse • Trauma • Self-Esteem • Grief Issues

Testimonial “I’ve known Debbie for over 15 years. She has a gift for working with young children and driven to help children overcome life’s biggest challenges.”

– Erin Merryn- Founder of Erin’s Law, writer and activist.

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825 West State St., Suite 119B Geneva, IL 60134

Issues Addressed

26 | MAY 2015 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

FAMILY IN FOCUS

kanecountymagazine.com

Feeling Appreciated P Photos by Maureen Schwartz

with DEB CONLEY

erhaps this is a good topic for this month, given that in May, we celebrate our moms and all they do for us. Moms are busy people.

No need to list what they do, we all know that well. According to Salary.com, in 2014, a “stay-at-home mom” would earn $118,905 and a mom who works outside the home in addition to duties inside the home would earn an additional $ 70,107.

No matter which role you are in, feeling appreciated is central for the need to carry on after another long, seemingly neverending day.

The definition of appreciate is “to recognize the full worth of”, or when used as a verb, “to be grateful or thankful”. Recently, I was in line at Target just five minutes before the store was closing at 10 p.m. A woman behind me, herself also a mom said to me, “I just don’t think it was meant to be like this.” This started a conversation with another mom in line, about how we all are burning the wick at both ends.

So what do Moms want from us – not just on Mother’s Day – every day? A little appreciation goes a long way.

HERE ARE SOME IDEAS: u Say thank you for something specific your mom did for you. This can be anything from believing in you when no one else thought you could do something, to staying up late and talking with you. u Do something for your mom or mother of your children that she wants to do. It doesn’t have to be expensive or elaborate. In fact, most moms have told me they would enjoy relaxing and someone taking over their responsibilities for the day. u Homemade gifts never disappoint! Who could forget the picture frames or artwork with your child’s hands? Heartfelt notes of appreciation written by older children always are cherished.

Moms need to recharge their batteries, so to speak, so they can continue to give their best to their families. Give them that break and appreciation often .

Debbie L. Conley, LCSW is a clinical social worker and therapist in Geneva. She specializes in child and adolescent therapy, parenting issues and trauma/ptsd.

kanecountymagazine.com

FAMILY IN FOCUS

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | MAY 2015 | 27

Never a dull moment in

ST. CHARLES

By TOM WITOM

P

Erika Young, a spokesperson for St. Charles Park District, says music-lovers anticipate the Concert in the Park series each Thursday night in Lincoln Park starting at 7 p.m. June 4 with an appearance by local favorite Red Roody, performing rock ‘n’ roll and contemporary pop But a multitude of popular civic, cultural and special-interest events also capture the public’s numbers. “The series has been ongoing for well over 15 years and is a great family-fun event,” fancy in this bustling far western suburb.

Young adds.

Jump-starting Memorial Day weekend will be A major city festival, now in its 33rd year, is the the 17th annual St. Charles Fine Art Show on starting at 10 a.m. May 23-24 on Riverside Ave. City of St. Charles Riverfest, set for June 12-14. between Main St. and Illinois Ave. It will feature “Attracting a turnout typically 50,000 strong, work of 100 juried artists in various media, says Riverfest is the largest kickoff to summer,” says Julie Farris, executive director of Pride of the Jamie Blair, events coordinator, Downtown St. Fox, which has spent 11 months planning the Charles Partnership. event. “Ours is the first festival (of the season) In addition, Blair says the week will mark out there.” the startup of STC Live, featuring free music addleboard rides on the Fox River and well-maintained bike paths are a big draw to St. Charles residents and visitors alike, as are the city’s one-of-a-kind boutiques, antique shops and highly-regarded restaurants.

downtown at various venues Wednesday and Friday evenings through mid-September. More details are at www.downtownstcharles.org/ events/stc-live

28 | MAY 2015 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

HOME & LIFESTYLE

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The weekend also has garnered a following for some of its most unique offerings: • DRAGON BOAT RACES ON THE FOX RIVER. Typically 26 teams, each with 20 members, provide the muscle to power the boats in competitive races Saturday and Sunday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Pottawatomie Park. Professionals race for points while so-called backyard warriors (a/k/a amateur race enthusiasts) seek to outpace one another.

Other places not to be missed • A MEMORIAL DAY PARADE will tip off May 25 at 10 a.m. at Main and 7th St., concluding with a brief ceremony at Freedom Shrine. “It’s a noncommercial parade, and 30 to 35 entries are anticipated, including bands from St. Charles East and North high schools, an honor guard and various military vehicles,” says Steven A. Martin, who is coordinating the annual event with Chairman Mark Powell.

• THE 1,000-SEAT NORRIS CULTURAL ARTS CENTER at 1040 Dunham Rd. will offer a free “Behind the Mask” spring concert by the Fox Valley Concert Band on May 3 at 3 p.m. Also upcoming: jazz saxophonist Christopher Madisen will appear in concert on May 24 and songwriter Julie Patchouli and guitarist Bruce Hecksel will offer “New American Folk” on June 7. For ticket information: (630) 584-7200.

• FANTASY SAND SCULPTURE. Ted Siebert of Crystal Lake, who has built imposing sand sculptures at river fests for 21 years, will create his work of art over a three-day period.

• FREE NONSTOP OUTDOOR CONCERTS. Headliners for June 12 include Libido Funk Circus, offering a mix of ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s classics; June 13: Gregory Hyde Band, rock music; and June 14: Radio station 1039 will present a live broadcast of The Garage, showcasing music of three local Chicago bands.

• HISTORIC ARCADA THEATER, nicknamed Gem of the Fox Valley, has a full schedule of live entertainment scheduled, ranging from Lovin’ Spoonful (May 3) and George Benson (May 6) to Paul Revere’s Raiders (May 17) and Herman’s Hermits (May 30), among others. For more details: (630) 962-7000.

• FOOD VENDORS will be set up and children’s activities will include the “Percussion Petting Zoo” and the magic bubble man, among others. New this year will be a jewelry fair featuring donated items; proceeds will benefit the Anderson Animal Shelter in South Elgin.

• “UNNECESSARY FARCE” continues through May 24 at Fox Valley Repertory Theater at Pheasant Run Resort, followed by “The Legacy Girls,” a tribute to the Andrews Sisters, May 30June 6. Steel Beam Theatre, 111 N. Main St. (630) 587-8521, will stage “God of Carnage” May 15-June 17.

-Continued on page 30

Photos by Lorae Mundt kanecountymagazine.com

HOME & LIFESTYLE

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | MAY 2015 | 29

Fun in the Sun!

-Continued from page 29

Looking for more?

One need never be at a loss for fun things to do in St. Charles. Here’s a sampling of a few more scheduled activities: MAY 2-3 Kane County Flea Market, at the Kane County Fairgrounds, 525 S. Randall Rd., features some 1,000 dealers who display and sell antiques and collectibles. Saturday hours are noon to 5 p.m.; Sunday, 7 a.m.-4 p.m. Fee: Adults, $5; children 12 and younger, free.

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FRIDAYS, JUNE 5-OCT. 30 Farmers’ Market at Baker Methodist Church, East Main St. at 4th Ave. Runs weekly 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Check out artisan cheese and bread, fresh harvested eggs and locally grown fruits and vegetables.

JULY 4 Join the Independence Day festivities at St. Charles Parks with entertainment and activities throughout the day and a fireworks display at night. Presented by the St. Charles Park District in cooperation with the City of St. Charles and local sponsors.

TUESDAYS, JULY 7 THROUGH AUG. 25 Cruise Nites, sponsored by the St. Charles Chamber of Commerce, weekly on Riverside. Check out the classic cars competing for awards. Food and beverage vendors will be available.

JULY 15-19 Kane County Fair, 525 S. Randall Rd. Information at http://kanecountyfair. com/visitors_fairinfo.cfm kanecountymagazine.com

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HOME & LIFESTYLE

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | MAY 2015 | 31

PLANT A TREE PLANT THE FUTURE

By MEAGAN PROVENCHER, SR. LANDSCAPE DESIGNER, ICN

T

rees are one of the most important things we can plant in our yards. Not only do they provide interest, scale, shade, color, and sometimes flowers, they remain for many generations to come. What other investment provides so much return?

Here are some of my favorite shade trees. There are hundreds of species of trees available to plant so this is a very short list. We have many great resources nearby in which you can see trees in many scenarios before you buy. Visit The Morton Arboretum, The Chicago Botanic Gardens, Cantigny, or even just come out here to the nursery and check out our fields to see young trees growing like crazy – just waiting for the right family to pick them!

p KENTUCKY COFFEE TREE – This is one of the

toughest trees we grow. Large compound leaves with deep-fissured bark, it is very tolerant of bad soils, and has an open canopy when young but fills in nicely as it ages.

TULIP TREE – My personal favorite, boasts large leaves with a square shape, orange/yellow flowers that appear as the tree ages, and gold fall color. A quick grower, it is tall and stately.

ELM – These fast growing hybrids are

resistant to Dutch Elm Disease (it’s interesting that we are using the Elm to replace the Ash… we used Ash to replace the Elms that died of DED in the 1960s and 70s). Small leaves, a vase-shaped canopy, great fall color and they are tough! Great as parkway trees or yard shade trees.

SWEET GUM – One of the best fall

color shows of all the trees, its star-shaped leaves turn red, orange and yellow in October.

This tree does have an interesting spiky seed, so you’ll want to locate it away from patios and sidewalks, but otherwise, it’s worth it!

32 | MAY 2015 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

p MAPLES – while ‘Autumn Blaze’ is

probably our best selling tree, it’s also getting overplanted now as a replacement for Ash. There are other Maples worth looking at in order to diversify. ‘State Street’ is a nice smaller maple with unique bark and fuzzy leaves. Paperbark Maples have gorgeous copper peeling bark and red fall color. Of course, the old standbys Norway and Sugar are good for yards as well.

BLACK ALDER – A cousin of the River Birch, it has large dark green rounded leaves, gray bark, unique seeds and catkins that look like tiny pine cones. It’s tolerant of wet feet, and offers great shape (usually multistemmed).

LINDEN – American Linden are excellent street and shade trees. Large, pyramidal canopy with dark green heart shaped leaves, Lindens have fragrant flowers in the summer and a clean yellow fall color.

Littleleaf Lindens are nice if you want something a bit smaller.

HOME & LIFESTYLE

p GINKGO – If a tree has been around

since before the dinosaurs, you know it’s tough. Ginkgos have beautiful fan shaped leaves that turn a brilliant yellow in the fall and drift gracefully to the ground in October.

They all are male clones that are fruitless, so no worries about the fruit…you don’t want to know what the fruit smells like.

OAK – Oaks get a bad rep for growing too

slowly – but they don’t grow any slower or faster than most other trees. Swamp White Oaks have beautiful peeling bark, fuzzy leaves, and dark fall color. Red Oaks are tough and have deep burgundy red fall color. Chinquapin Oaks have unique serrated long leaves and fantastic fall color. Oaks are tough trees (they’ve been around in Illinios for while – White Oak is our state tree!) and deserve a spot in the lawn.

CATALPA – This tree has some of the

biggest leaves you’ll ever see. It also flowers huge clusters of white and purple flowers in spring. It’s a tough tree with a great solid canopy, but with a structure that allows light in. There also is a Purple Catalpa with dark purple tinted leaves in spring. kanecountymagazine.com

“Someone’s sitting in the shade today because someone planted a tree a long time ago.” ~ Warren Buffett The key to any tree selection is to diversify.

If we’ve learned anything from the Ash destruction it’s that we need to diversify.

Take a look around your yard, your neighbors’ yards, and your street trees. Choose a species that isn’t heavily planted already. There are plenty of trees that grow in this area and many of them have unique characteristics you are sure to love. Spring and summer are an excellent time to plant a tree or two so if you are thinking about planting a tree, do it now!

Stop and think about all of the trees around you – someone had to plant them at some time. Why don’t you be the person that plants the next one?

Meagan Provencher is the Sr. Landscape Designer for Wasco Nursery & Garden Center. She can be reached at 630-5844424 or design@wasconursery.com She has 16 different species of trees in her small yard in Geneva and room for maybe two more…decisions, decisions… kanecountymagazine.com

90 Years A Growing Legacy Great Ways to Remember M Mom this Year. Show love to yo your mom with a great gift from Wasco Nursery & Garden Center.

You will find colorful flowers, beautiful hanging baskets and containers, flowering shrubs and trees, creative artwork, garden gloves, tools and books, unique fountains and statuary. You could also bring your mother out to Wasco Nursery and let her choose for herself!

We invite you to come out and see us and learn all the ways we can help make your home beautiful!

Since 1925, Wasco Nursery & Garden Center has been known for its exceptional quality and extensive product offerings.

Locally grown plant material always performs better and paired with our knowledgeable staff to assist you with your choices, you are sure to be successful in the garden. From shade trees and evergreens to annuals and vegetables, you will always find the plants you are looking for at Wasco Nursery.

Once you find the plants you love, if you are not up to the task of planting, Wasco Nursery’s professional installation crews can provide the necessary labor to complete any landscape job whether one tree or an entire landscape project.

With a full line of mulches, soil amendments, fertilizers, garden tools, pond products, herbicides, pesticides, organics, garden decor and more, you can make Wasco Nursery & Garden Center the first and last stop for all your gardening needs.

90 “Meeting your growing needs since 1925.”

41W781 Route 64 | St. Charles | 630-584-4424 | wasconursery.com HOME & LIFESTYLE

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | MAY 2015 | 33

Cruise the

FOX

Mid-American Canoe and Kayak Race looking for paddlers

T

he Mid-American Canoe and Kayak Race is accepting registrations for the 54th annual event to be held Sunday, June 7, on the Fox River.

Fox River,” says event coordinator Cody Kamp.

The 10-mile race will begin at 9 a.m. from Mount. St. Mary Park in downtown St. Charles, with the 6-mile race starting at 10:30 a.m. from the VFW in Batavia, just south of downtown.

The historic event will feature two different lengths for paddlers– a 10-mile run starting in St. Charles and a six-miler Boats will be launched in heats of 10, from Batavia – with both races finishing every four minutes from both start at McCullough Park in Aurora. areas. Free shuttle buses for participants and spectators will run continuously The event is open to paddlers of all from McCullough Park to both starting ages and abilities, featuring 11 canoe sites beginning at 7 a.m. divisions, 8 kayak divisions and 1 open (non-competitive) division.

All-inclusive canoe and kayak rental “The Mid-Am is meant for everybody – from ultra-competitive, experienced river runners to young families and novices who just want to enjoy a memorable paddling experience on the

packages are available for both races at discounted prices, with start area delivery and finish line pickup of rental boats included.

A riverside party for all paddlers, friends, families and spectators will take place at the finish area at McCullough Park and feature food, music, prize drawings, local vendors and live interviews with paddlers. An awards ceremony will conclude the event, with awards for first, second and third-place finishers in each division for both races.

All registered paddlers will receive a commemorative T-shirt, goodie bag, lunch fare with chips and drink and be eligible for prize drawings. uVisit www.foxvalleyparkdistrict. org to register online. Registration forms also are available at all Park District community centers. For more information, call (630) 859-8606.

A cavalcade of canoes and kayaks will hit the Fox River on June 7, when the annual Mid-American Canoe & Kayak Race holds its 54th running.

34 | MAY 2015 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

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KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | MAY 2015 | 35

Fine Furnishings | Interior Design Showroom | Rug Gallery | Distinct Custom Floral

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36 | MAY 2015 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

HOME & LIFESTYLE

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Go to www.designessentialsco.com and sign up on our mailing list to receive a special invitation for our Ladies Night Out Event on May 21st!

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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.”

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | MAY 2015 | 37

Can you handle all the

FRESH AIRE? with TOM WANGLER OF CONFIDENT AIRE

A

Tom Wangler Jr. is president and 2nd generation heating and cooling specialist of Confident Aire located at 416 E. Wilson St., Batavia.

For more information call 630-761-9007 or visit www.confidentaire.com

38 | MAY 2015 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

sk a resident of the Midwest what they love about living here, and the change of seasons often is mentioned. That first heavy rain of the year has washed away the brown and gray and is bringing out the green in our lawns. The flowers seem to be taking over, and the trees are beginning to bud up and bloom. Meanwhile the local pharmacies are stocking their shelves with an enormous supply of allergy pills. (Good luck seeing the allergist in less than three weeks!) For so many, the only refuge is to once again close up the windows and hide indoors. Must the fresh air be so short lived?

Not necessarily, here are few tips and options for creating a healthy indoor environment:

HOME & LIFESTYLE

kanecountymagazine.com

Does Your Sump Pump

Go Bump In the Night?

1

When fresh air comes in through a window, it carries with it all the things you are trying to get away from, but if you bring it in through your duct system it gets filtered and treated before you breathe it in.

In addition, the lost energy can be recaptured as stale contaminated air is exhausted from the home. This is a powerful combination for those in need of relief.

WARNING SIGNS:

• Klunking or Bumping • Humming & Growling • Frequently Turning On & Off

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Do not wait until fall to have your humidifier cleaned. You are done with it now, so why let it sit stagnant in the dark plenum where it may continue to create mildew in the air stream? You would not let your turkey pan sit dirty until the following fall would you?

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Get a really good air filter–at least five inches thick. It may be paper, or go for the washable electronic version that doesn’t require any ongoing filter expense. Couple this with a furnace fan that runs very slow between cycles, so the particles slow down, and feel the difference right away. The builder has these in his home.

4

Have the inside of your air conditioner drain pipe inspected for mold. This really nasty kind can grow up backwards from the floor drain and make it way into your indoor coil, where it travels around the house with the air passing over.

5

If you are unsure of what is causing allergies/ asthma to act up inside the home, have the air and dust tested by a lab to see what it is made of. The source should be easy to find and eliminate after that.

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HOME & LIFESTYLE

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | MAY 2015 | 39

LIVING BY

DESIGN with Michael Grudecki

IN THE CLOSET

Once considered a place where you hang your clothes, today’s closets have evolved into luxurious showplaces filled with features once used only in kitchens and family rooms. Plain wire hangers and shelving are a thing of the past and have been replaced with wood hangers, rich cabinetry with glass doors, beautiful exotic wood flooring and light fixtures. And let’s not forget islands to lay out your clothes, built in laundry units, and a place to sit when you are putting on your socks and shoes.

If your home was built in the last 20 years, its closets likely started with white wire shelving . . . and more often than not, that same shelving remains as you dream of what could be.

Need a place to hang your ties?

Your custom closet can have it!

Have a lot of shoes?

Your closet can store them!

Do you like collecting cologne?

Your closet can have a display case!

When it comes to building the ultimate closet, your dreams are possible, it just comes with a price tag. On average, we recommend a budget of $10-$15,000 for a 8’ wide x 20’ long closet. With this budget, such luxury items like glass cabinet doors, built-in laundry hampers, and crown molding are standard.

Within that same budget, multiple choices are availble including special features such as jewelry drawers, wood selections, and hardware (often the “jewelry” of the closet).

When designing your dream closet, do not forget flooring and lighting. These will need to be a part of the overall budget when creating your ultimate closet.

Make sure to have a plan! Before you start taking all your clothes out of your existing closet, know

40 | MAY 2015 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

what your future closet will look like. This will help with both budgeting and a project timeline.

Speaking of timeline, it’s an important factor when working on your closet project. Much like the renovation of a kitchen or bathroom, expect the unexpected and prepare for possible project delays . . . some out of your contractor’s control.

Unfortunately, materials will sometimes come in damaged but that is okay. If you are working with a reputable designer and contractor, they will work to remedy the situation in a timely manner, more often than not offering alternatives.

Once your project is complete, sit back, relax, and take it all in. That dated closet with wire shelves you had to face in the morning has become a distant memory, replaced with your new showplace. Getting dressed in the morning will become a special treat and hopefully will help you to start your day off feeling good, as you come out of your newly renovated closet.

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.

HOME & LIFESTYLE

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KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | MAY 2015 | 41

42 | MAY 2015 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

VL VALLEY LODGE

TAVERN

OPENS IN ST. CHARLES

By WENDY FOSTER

F

or many years, McNally’s Irish Pub in St. Charles has been a popular destination for area residents seeking good food and drink in a convivial atmosphere. Starting this spring, the legendary pub has become Valley Lodge Tavern. The intent of owner Bill Stavrou, who purchased McNally’s last year, is to keep what’s best, while melding it with his proven brand.

Stavrou, also is the owner of Valley Lodge Taverns in Glenview and Wilmette. He began working with the family-business in 1969 and has owned it since 1997.

Last April, Stavrou purchased McNally’s.

“We liked the location, the demographics, the interior space and the business itself. Quite honestly, we didn’t expect to change anything,” he says. “We were operating it as McNally’s for 11 months. But as our concept for Valley Lodge Tavern continued to grow on the North Shore, we saw that changing McNally’s to Valley Lodge Tavern would be a great way to continue to grow our brand.”

Tied to the brand is a dedication to customer service, Stavrou says. All staff go through rigorous training to ensure that every guest coming through the door feels “as special as they possibly can and as important as they truly are,” he says. All employees understand completely that they need to be pleasant, attentive and engaging at all times, he adds.

But good service is nothing without good food, and Stavrou says Valley Lodge Tavern is also known for its upscale pub fare. Specialties include steaks, chops, fresh seafood and burgers.

“We have a great craft cocktail and craft beer list, and a wine list with enough variety that people can get what they like within an approachable price point.”

Some classic McNally’s favorites have been incorporated into the menu as well. There will be baby back ribs, tenderloin sliders and the restaurant’s proprietary burger. “The rest of the menu will be a little bit more diverse,” he says. “We’re hybriding it to engage our guests who have been coming to McNally’s for many years. We want to keep them,” he says. The beer list will stay the same but the wine list will expand, he adds.

What remains is a majority of the staff, which Stavrou says embodies the spirit of the restaurant, something he doesn’t look to change.

Valley Lodge Tavern 109 W. Main Street, St Charles

“They had a great staff here when we took over. Many will stay onboard. We really like the staff they had there,” Stavrou says.

Find out more about Valley Lodge Tavern, check out menus and make reservations for larger parties online at valleylodgetavern.com

“Quite simply we’re really excited about being in the Fox Valley market, with our brand and the way we do things.

We’re excited about the opportunity to engage with our new community.”

Photo by Joe Shuman KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | MAY 2015 | 43

I.B. QUALITY CABINETS INC.

Family takes on new eatery, sports bar in former Gratto location

Complete Service in Cabinets, Countertops

Your One Stop Shop • Family Owned & Operated • 4th Generation

By BRENDA SCHORY The former Gratto Italian Tapas is being transformed into a casual dining sports bar to be called Rascals Tavern and Grill, new co-owner Dina Pray says.

Pray says she hopes the new restaurant will be open by mid-May after the work currently underway is completed at 207 S. Third St., Geneva.

“We’re waiting on a liquor license and waiting for the work to be done – the tables, painting and doing the floor,” Pray says.

“It’s going to be a casual sports bar. We are going to have burgers, some pastas, pizza, different sandwiches. Most of the owners are Italian, but it’s not going to be an Italian restaurant.”

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Pray says the other owners are her two sisters, her father and her aunt – who bought the previous restaurant’s assets from her cousins, Joseph Sisto and his daughter, Danielle Sisto.

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44 | MAY 2015 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

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Create Lasting Memories

“We says, ‘Let’s try something new,’ ” Pray says about when the cousins were ready to close Gratto, which had been open since 2008. “We bought the assets, not the name.”

Pray says her father, Guy Sisto, previously owned restaurants before – Cafe Bari in Batavia and Cucina Bari St. Charles. Both have been closed more than 10 years, she says.

Owning a restaurant is a departure for Pray, who graduated from Geneva High School in 1989 and still lives in Geneva.

Most of the time, she was a stay-at-home mom for her three children, Pray says. She also worked as a probation officer for Kane County, then as a kindergarten aide at Harrison Street Elementary School.

Pray says the owners plan to have a ribboncutting event and grand opening. kanecountymagazine.com

FINE ITALIAN DINING AND CATERING

WEDDINGS PARTIES SHOWERS CORPORATE EVENTS

Eat well and benefit a good cause at the Fox Valley Food for Health’s Backyard Barbecue fundraiser, 6-11 p.m. Friday, May 15 at Mill Creek Golf Club in Geneva.

The BBQ hog roast, raffle and live auction will be held to benefit Fox Valley Food for Health, a 501C3 not-for-profit organization that teaches teens to cook healthy, nutritious meals, then delivered free of charge to local cancer patients and their families. Founded less than three years ago by registered dietician Mary Fremgen and professional chef Susan Leigh,the organization has prepared more than 9,000 meals for more than 140 clients with the teamwork and love of more than 30 teens, nearly 100 adults and thousands of hours of service.

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“The event is meant to raise money so we can continue this rewarding project,” says event host Terri Pheanis. “All the proceeds will be used to purchase the foods and supplies our teens and volunteers need to serve our expanding client base. Our teen volunteers will be present to talk about their roles in the program. “ Tickets for the barbecue are $50 per person includes entry and meal. Cash bar is available. To order tickets, contact Pheanis at 630-408-9522 or send an email to fvffhbbq@gmail.com.. For more information about program, email info@ fvffhp.org. kanecountymagazine.com

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of autoimmune disease

By MARTHA MADDI

We’ve all heard of autoimmune diseases but many of us have little idea what they really are. Yet they are one of the top five medical conditions of great concern to women, along with heart disease, breast cancer, osteoporosis, and depression. Understanding these diseases is crucial to knowing how to protect against them. Here are the basics.

A. Autoimmune diseases occur when your immune system falters.

Normally, the body can differentiate between what belongs in your body and what doesn’t.

When it detects a virus or parasite, it attacks.

But sometimes, it gets confused and wages a battle against your own tissues.

B. Autoimmune diseases are common.

According to the American Autoimmune Associated Disease Association, more than 23 million Americans suffer from autoimmunity, making it the third most common category of illness in the United States after cancer and heart disease.

C. Women are far more likely to get them.

In fact, 80 percent of people affected by autoimmune diseases are women, according to Mayo Clinic’s Women’s Health Research Center in Minnesota. Those that affect women almost exclusively are Hashimoto’s disease, lupus, multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis. Often, the autoimmune disease will begin during the childbearing years, according to the U.S. Office of Women’s Health (USOWH).

D. Autoimmune diseases are on the rise.

Over the last few decades, lupus rates have tripled and celiac disease cases have quadrupled. In just the last 10 years, type 1 diabetes has increased 23 percent. Many of the triggers, both air-borne and food-related, have not yet been discovered, experts say.

E. Autoimmune disease is an umbrella for more than 90 diseases.

These include type 1 diabetes, inflammatory bowel disease, celiac disease and asthma, according to The National Institutes of Health (NIH).

F. Every autoimmune disease has three basic ingredients.

• A genetic predisposition. Experts say autoimmune diseases cluster in families, often passed down from an aunt to a niece or from cousin to cousin. Relatives usually do not share the same autoimmune disease so the aunt could have lupus and the niece could have juvenile diabetes.

• An environmental trigger. This could be an infection, vaccination or even a food product like gluten. Other triggers are exposure to chemicals or consumer products made from plastics, artificial fibers and synthetic dyes.

According to the Environmental Working Group, the average person is exposed to more than 126 chemicals before even leaving the bathroom in the morning, considering the shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, soap, deodorant and sunscreen that people use.

Mercury is a chemical that has long been suspected of causing autoimmunity by increasing the production of lymphocytes, a type of white blood cell in the immune system.

In addition, the NIH is researching whether a protein in cow’s milk may help trigger type 1 diabetes in genetically susceptible children.

• A leaky gut. A gut that is in bad shape due to stress and junk food can create Zonulin.

This opens up the spaces between the cells

48 | MAY 2015 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

HEALTH & WELLNESS

of the intestinal lining. While this normally occuring order for nutrient and other molecules to get in and out of the intestine, in a leaky gut, the spaces between the cells open up too much, allowing larger protein molecules to get into the bloodstream where an immunologic reaction can take place. Once that happens, the body is primed to react to those proteins each and every time they appear.

G. Autoimmune disorders share common symptoms.

While each of the more than 90 disorders are unique, they do share some of the same symptoms, such as extreme fatigue and joint and muscle pain. The classic sign of an autoimmune disease is inflammation, which can cause redness, heat, pain and swelling.

H. To prevent autoimmune diseases and to feel your best once you already have one, the steps are the same, according to the USOWH. • Eat healthy, well-balanced meals.

• Get regular physical activity but don’t overdo it.

• Get enough rest.

• Reduce stress.

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50 | MAY 2015 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

OUT & ABOUT

EVENTS In Kane County MAY 7 - 9 | COMEDIAN PAT MCGANN Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, Pheasant Run Resort, 4051 E Main St., St. Charles Must be 21 years old. Two drink\/food minimum purchase per person. Tickets can be ordered on line or by calling 630-584-6342. No passes, discounts or coupons on Saturday. www.stcharles.zanies.com MAY 8 | “SQUIRREL LAKE�

Friday, 8 p.m. Riverfront Playhouse, 11-13 South Water St., Aurora Comedy by Brian Mitchell follows the misadventures of the Olsen family who have gathered at the family’s home for the reading of their recently-departed mother’s will. Mistaken identities and confusion run rampant at their summer home on Squirrel Lake. Price: Free. For more information, go to www. riverfrontplayhouse.com or call 630-897-9496.

MAY 9 | ROVER RESCUE DOG SHOW Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Aurora Turners Club, 1335 Mitchell Road, Aurora The 12th annual Rover Rescue Pet Dog Show is great fun for the entire family. Entry forms for the 12th Annual Rover Rescue Pet Dog Show are available by calling 630-897-7454 or on the website at RoverRescue.org.

Each $10 entry includes four categories; additional categories are $1 each before May 7. People are admitted free! All show entries must be received

by May 7.For more information, go online to www. roverrescue.org MAY 9 | BATAVIA PLAIN DIRT GARDEN CLUB PLANT SALE Saturday, 9 a.m. at Bethany Lutheran Church, 8 S. Lincoln St., Batavia The Batavia Plain Dirt Garden Club will host their popular plant sale on Saturday, May 9th. Native wildflowers, perennials, ferns, hostas, prairie plants, grasses and many unusual varieties will be available, most of which are dug from club members’ own gardens. Expert gardeners will also be available to answer plant questions. For more information call 630-820-1461 MAY 10 | SPORTSMAN SHOW Sunday, 7:30 a.m. To 1:30 p.m., Kane County Fairgrounds, 525 S Randall Road, St. Charles Buy, sell and trade firearms and all related items. $5 Admission. For more information, go to www. kanecountyfair.com. kanecountymagazine.com

MAY 15 | TOUCH-A-TRUCK DAY Friday, 10:30 a.m. Eastside Community Center, 14 N. Van Buren St., Aurora, IL Touch-A-Truck Day gives kids of all ages the opportunity to touch, feel, and climb through, into and out of each and every vehicle available. There could be a firetruck, tractor, dump truck, bus, limousine, police car and more.

Parent supervision is required.

MAY 15 | USED INSTRUMENT SALE Friday, 5 to 8 p.m., J.B. Nelson School, 334 William Wood Lane, Batavia The PTO of JB Nelson Elementary School in Batavia is hosting it’s 7th annual Used Instrument Sale. This fundraiser is an opportunity for the residents of School District 101 and the surrounding areas to sell or purchase gently used and well-maintained musical instruments. The proceeds from the sale will benefit the music department of JB Nelson. We are looking for Band/Orchestra Instruments, guitars, ukeleles, mandolins...ALL musical Instruments. Instrument dropoff times for the sale are: 4-6pm on Thursday, May 14, and 3:30-5pm on Friday, May 15, at JB Nelson School.

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MAY 16-17 | TEXAS GUITAR SHOW Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., DuPage Expo Center, 4050 E. Main St., St. Charles This show is a buy, sell, trade show of guitars, related instruments, accessories. Dealers come from all over the US to show their wares. Price: $15. For more information, go to www.texasguitarshows.com.

-Continued on page 52

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M - 9am–5:30pm; Tu- 9am–2pm; Wed- 10:30am–7pm; Th- Closed; Fri- 9am–3pm; Sat- 9am–2pm

For more information, email Margaret at lekander5@ live.com or call 630-217-2970. Price: Free

MAY 16 | FARMERS MARKET PREVIEW & FVGC GARDENERS’ PLANT SALE Saturday, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., Aurora Transportation Center, 233 N Broadway, Aurora Start the growing season with ideas and plants from the area experts. Fresh, homemade and organic produce.

MAY 16 | FAMILY FUN DAY Saturday, 9 a.m., Pheasant Run, 4051 East Main St., St. Charles Grab your pint-sized Picasso’s and mini Matisse’s and join the art-centric Family Fun Day at Pheasant Run Resort in St. Charles for seven hours of painting activities, learn-to-paint demonstrations and more.

Plus, you can shop finished artwork and craft materials from major brands like DecoArt, Loew-Cornell and Stampendous. Children under age 12 are free and art-lovers of any age will love playing, creating and getting inspired at Family Fun Day, which is hosted by the Society of Decorative Painters and is one of the last events of its 43rd Annual Conference & Expo. Price: $5.

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MAY 11 | HABITAT WORKDAY Monday, 1 p.m., Fermilab Natural Areas, Kirk and Batavia Roads, Batavia No experience required but dress for the weather and outdoor work. In the spring we are pulling garlic mustard and collecting seed from spring wildflowers.

We move all over the Fermilab campus as a strike team, helping to restore important, high-quality natural areas. All tools and safety equipment provided. Simply bring a photo ID to show the Fermilab security guard at the entrance. Meet in Lederman Science Center parking lot. Those under 18 need to have written parental permission or supervision. Rain, heavy snow, or hazardous weather cancels any event.

Wheaton 630.668.8277

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | MAY 2015 | 51

-Continued from page 51 MAY 17 | PAUL REVERE’S RAIDERS Sunday, 7 p.m. Arcada Theatre, 105 E Main St., St. Charles For information or to order tickets, please call 630962-7000. Tickets can also be ordered on line. www. oshows.com

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MAY 23 | BUTTERFLY RELEASE PARTY Saturday, 10 a.m. to noon, Peck Farm Park, 4038 Kaneville Road, Geneva Celebrate the re-opening of Geneva Park District’s Butterfly House at the annual Butterfly Release Party.

Participants will receive an official adoption certificate for a live butterfly, before releasing it into the house.

Plus, discover and learn about nature at Hawks Hollow Nature Playground. Registration is required. Space is limited, so reserve your spot early. Cost is $15 per child. Only paying participants will receive a passport and butterfly to release. Participants under 16 years of age must be accompanied by an adult. For more information, visit www.genevaparks.org or call 630232-4542.

MAY 23 | NEXT STEP RUNNING CLUB Saturday, 7 a.m., St. Charles Dick Pond, Saint Charles Maintain your fitness level while running with friendly and outgoing runners. Runs vary from 3-6 miles and a course map is provided in advance. Runners range from a pace between 7 and 12 minutes per mile. Every Saturday Morning: Rain, snow, or shine. Contact Information: caroline@dickpondathletics.com MAY 29-JUNE 3 | ART 2015 - “IT’S WHAT WE DO” GALLERY SHOW Friday-Wednesday, 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., closed Sunday, Fine Line Creative Arts Center, 37W570 Bolcum Rd., St. Charles Art 2015 - “It’s What We Do.” A multi-media exhibit of works of art created in or inspired by Fine Line classes attended by the artists during the past year. Price: Free.

For more information, email info@fineline.org or call 630-584-9443.

MAY 30 | FOXTAILS & FLOWER POWER SUPER SCITECH Saturday, 10 a.m., Scitech Hands On Museum, 18 W. Benton St., Aurora Free Admission for up to 4 Fox Valley children with a paying adult. The last Saturday of every month. Price: Free. For more information, go to www.scitechmuseum. org.

STEVE SMITH Financial Advisor Associate Vice President 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)

52 | MAY 2015 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

MAY 21 | VEGETABLE GARDENS FROM FIELD TO FORK Thursday, 7 p.m. Geneva Public Library, 127 James St., Geneva Prairie Godmothers will demonstrate how to plant big gardens in small spaces. Please register in advance.

Price: Free. For more information, email pkrapf@gpld. org or call 630-232-4806.

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OUT & ABOUT

MAY 31 | COLOR VIBE 5K Sunday, 7:30 a.m., RiverEdge Park, 360 N. Broadway St., Aurora Get ready Aurora for the most colorful fun-filled day of your life! Be prepared to be blasted at every color station throughout this 5K run. At the Color Vibe, you are the color canvas, and when your finished you’ll be an exciting and vivid masterpiece. Sign-up at www. enjoyaurora.com. kanecountymagazine.com

PETS

CHAMPION OF CAUSES

By Anderson Animal Shelter

Featured Sponsor: DePaw University Canine Campus

Passionate, dedicated, driven – these are just a few of the terms used to describe Jill C. Hanses of St. Charles, Illinois.

Born in Elgin, Illinois in the 1960’s, Jill spent most of her life in the Fox Valley area. An incredible business women and generous philanthropist, Jill supported a number of local charitable causes.

Jill dedicated both time and resources to causes that were important to her. Jill was a longtime board member, treasurer, president and volunteer for Anderson Animal Shelter (South Elgin), she was active in Kiwanis Club of St. Charles, a supporter of Elderday Senior Services (Batavia) and CASA of Kane County.

Jill passed away in January of this year but her life and legacy in the Fox Valley area will continue thanks to her husband Andy and the creation of the Jill C. Hanses Memorial Scholarship. The scholarship which will become available in 2016 will support young adults who have an interest in animal welfare causes.

Anderson Animal Shelter Board Member Cindy Green had this to say, “Jill was an inspiration to those of us who worked alongside her. She had unending energy for the cause, compassion for the animals and a generosity with her time and resources that will be hard to match. During her tenure as President, Jill led the organization through many changes and was a strong influence on the Board.”

Jill and her husband Andy shared a deep interest in helping better the communities where they lived and worked.

Through the memorial scholarship, Andy hopes to meld two of Jill’s charitable passions, animal welfare and children’s causes.

“We can always give to a cause our own time and resources,” said Andy, “but if we can inspire the young and assist them, if they choose to follow our similar passions, then we can continue this legacy from generation to generation. This is what Jill would have wanted and I am grateful to be able to honor her passions.”

Anderson Animal Shelter will forever be grateful for Jill’s generosity and kindness. Jill and Andy’s contributions and passion for the animals and Anderson will live on through the creation of the Jill C. Hanses Memorial Scholarship.

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GROOMING KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | MAY 2015 | 53

Artist SHOWCASE JOANNE LAUDOLFF Batavia “Sunflowers” Botanical Printing

Batavia resident JoAnne Laudolff artistic interests include Japanese paper making, botanical printing and mixed media.

“My printmaking art is usually based on my relationship with nature; my connection to the earth and being linked to the universe in a small way,” Laudolff says.

“I think my uniqueness would be the way I do botanical printing. For me it is a labor

of love. I ink or apply paint to each leaf and print them individually.”

See her unique works of art during the “Impressions” Printmaking Invitational exhibit now through May 23, at Fine Line Creative Arts Center, 37W570 Bolcum Road, St. Charles.

A graduate of Columbia College, Laudolff is inspired by nature as well as art books

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.”

54 | MAY 2015 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

OUT & ABOUT

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OUT & ABOUT

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | MAY 2015 | 55

Life

SOCIAL

A crowd of supporters came out to The 26th Annual Tri City Family Services Gala Event, “Picture This: Supporting Healthy Families” April 18 at the Pheasant Run Resort in St. Charles. Photos by Joe Perez

56 | MAY 2015 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

BUSINESS & CIVIC

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BUSINESS & CIVIC

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | MAY 2015 | 57

The Heart of Kane County is in the

Giving A non-profit feature

A Hand Up, Not A Hand Out! What do you think of when you hear “homeless person?” One definition is: an individual without permanent housing who may live on the streets; stay in a shelter, abandoned building or vehicle; or in any other unstable or non-permanent situation. But, the reality is…it could be any one of us, our neighbors, our friends, or the clerk at your favorite grocery store.

Homelessness has no face, no gender, no age. Every individual and family wants to keep a roof over their head, food on their tables and a job that pays enough to afford their bills. Unfortunately this is not always possible for a variety of reasons and circumstances. That is why Lazarus House, a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, strives to provide services to these men, women, and children who are in need.

Lazarus House offers emergency shelter, transitional living and outreach (rental assistance) programs to individuals from Batavia, Geneva, St. Charles, and western rural Kane County.

Its mission is to offer guests connected to these communities, who are homeless or in need, hope for the future by providing hospitality, food, safe shelter, and education – tools for life. Its goals are to:

Help the homeless return to independent living with the skills and habits needed for long-term success Offer services and referrals to help those in need in our community in order to prevent homelessness and support the well-being of individuals and their families.

It is a great privilege to assist someone in their most frightening time and to witness the amazing transformation from despair to hope. Lazarus House invites you to become involved and help make a difference to those in need.

If you would like to learn more about Lazarus House and volunteering, please visit its website at www. lazarushouseonline.com Two very special events are coming up

this summer. The “Golfing for Good” outing and dinner event will be held in partnership with the St. Charles Kiwanis at the Royal Fox Country Club on June 8.

This event has both daytime golfing and evening only packages. The Great Western Freedom 4 Run and Walk will be held July 4th at LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve with all of the proceeds to benefit Lazarus House. Both of these events are always full of fun and excitement!

Please consider joining us!

Visit www. lazarushouseonline.com for details on these and other events. You too can help provide hope and a future to those in need.

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