AUGUST 2016
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INSIDE TRAVEL
8 MODERN WONDER A photoessay dedicated to the New Seven Wonders of the World
14 MICROADVENTURES Adventurer Alastair Humphreys shares his philosophy on close-to-home exploration
18 LAND OF THE FREE
Teacher Lisa Hatfield is instrumental in school district’s music program
22 TAKE A DRIVE ON THE WILD SIDE
HOME & LIFESTYLE
Ten U.S. safari parks for quality animal encounters
Decorating with worldly wares reawakens memorable journeys
For first-timers heading across the pond
28 HIGH AND MIGHTY MACHU PICCHU
46 SOUVENIR STYLE 48 PANIC At the garden center
FAMILY IN FOCUS
50 WELL-ROUNDED WELL-BEING
Novice hiker offers beginner’s guide to the Inca Trail
Tapping into inner vitality to bring about true health
32 EPIC CALIFORNIA ROAD TRIP
OUT & ABOUT
A 10-day itinerary featuring the highlights of the Golden State
34 SHANGHAI Inside China’s biggest city
DINING & ENTERTAINING 36 BREWS FROM BEYOND
Adventurer Alastair Humphreys shares his philosophy on close-to-home exploration
43 WOMAN OF DISTINCTION
After 100 years, the National Park Service continues to keep the U.S. wild
26 QUINTESSENTIAL BRITAIN
14 MICROADVENTURES
BUSINESS & CIVIC
52 FABULOUS FESTIVALS Ten events worth traveling for
54 BEFORE THE BELL St. Charles Park District rings in new morning care program
56 ARTIST SHOWCASE
Local establishments allow beerdrinkers to travel by taste
Photographer Dave Wensel of Geneva shares “Lochan – Glen Coe, Scotland”
38 TASTE OF ITALIA
58 CALENDAR OF EVENTS
A culinary tour of Kane County’s Italian cooking
See what’s happening in Kane County this August.
HEALTH & WELLNESS 40 ‘THE WORLD IS A GOOD PLACE’
Aurora resident cycling across Europe shares insights from the road
4 | AUGUST 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
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Editor's Note As a lover of all things travel, I’ve been pretty excited to put together this issue. And, inspired by the process, I have a story to tell. In this month’s travel issue, I interviewed British adventurer Alastair Humphreys, inventor of the microadventure. Microadventures are cheap, close-to-home, no-fuss, outdoor experiences meant to serve as a welcomed interruption to routine. Inspired by the story, I decided to put to practice what Humphreys preaches by going on two microadventures in one week – an expedited version of the concept. The first bit of micro-fun took place on a temperate Saturday afternoon. I recruited two adventurous companions to hike 12 miles on the Fox River Trail from my doorstep in St. Charles to Aurora. The promise of a cold beer from Two Brother's Roundhouse was the "dangling carrot." The walk took four hours to complete, but the time spent reconnecting with a friend was well spent. The second microadventure took place on a work night while driving home. The sunset on this particular evening was a real showstopper. So, instead of resorting to the usual post-work sedation by television, I continued driving west – into the sunset – looking for the perfect spot to take it all in. I ended up in Maple Park – Acquaviva Winery to be precise. Glass of wine in hand, I found a spot on a patch of grass adjacent to the restaurant to watch as this unassuming Wednesday came to a close.
During my 12-mile hike, just five days earlier, there was plenty of time to talk of many things. I don’t know how this particular topic came up, but I mentioned to my friend that I had never seen a flurry of fireflies like the romanticized scenes shown in the movies. I thought those displays didn’t actually exist; that a field blanketed by fireflies was merely “movie magic.” An exaggeration. After the sunset, while I was driving home, I couldn’t believe what happened next. With the absence of the sun, the open fields in rural Kane County began to glow in the darkness. It was the firefly version of a meteor shower – hundreds of lightning bugs lit up the wide open spaces that I was driving through. Therein lies the beauty of the microadventure. You set out to do one thing and somehow end up surprised by what you find. That is the essence of a great adventure. It's the moments that are unaccounted for that stick with you. Thank you Alastair for opening my eyes to the opportunities for adventure that await outside my front door. Readers, if you decide to embark on your own microadventure, email me. Tell me about it. I’d love to hear your story. Happy travels and thanks for reading.
Kara Silva, Editor
But, a funny thing happened that night.
on the
COVER
In an effort to showcase the awe-inspiring achievements of man, we've highlighted the New Seven Wonders of the World in a way that breathes new life into these iconic images. The "Modern Wonder" photoessay begins on Page 8.
Published by Shaw Media 333 N. Randall Road, Suite 2 St. Charles, IL 60174 Phone: 630-845-5288 www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
DIRECTOR OF NICHE PUBLISHING Laura Burke 630-427-6213 lburke@shawmedia.com EDITOR Kara Silva 630-427-6209 ksilva@shawmedia.com DESIGNER Carol Manderfield 630-427-6253 cmanderfield@shawmedia.com ACCOUNT MANAGERS Sandra Petti 630-313-0251 spetti@shawmedia.com Tricia Walter 630-845-5272 twalter@shawmedia.com CORRESPONDENTS Melissa Riske, Kelsey O’Connor, Yvonne Benson, Elizabeth Harmon, Paul Schneider, Tom Witom, Allison Horne, Peter Stadalsky, Dana McKenna PHOTOGRAPHERS Ron McKinney, Paul Schneider, Kelsey O'Connor, Tom Witom, Aldo Risolvo, Joe Perez
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.
Photo by RON MCKINNEY Model SOPHIE SALT Salon Services by MARIO TRICOCI Stylist - OLIVIA Makeup - KAT 6 | AUGUST 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
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MODERN WONDER ¢ A P H O T O E S S AY By KARA SILVA | Photos by RON MCKINNEY
W
hen Terri Henderson first laid eyes on the Roman Colosseum in Italy, she says that she felt lucky to be there. “To see something in person that you’ve read about for years was a wonderful experience. I could just feel the history around me,” says Henderson, president of Geneva Travel and Cruise. Nearly a decade ago, the Colosseum, the Taj Mahal in India, Chichen Itza in Mexico, Christ the Redeemer in Brazil, the Great Wall of China, Machu Picchu in Peru and Petra in Jordan were declared the New Seven Wonders of the World. The votes of more than 100 million people were tallied, and some of the world’s most awe-inspiring places landed
on a list meant to serve as a representation of global heritage. The New Seven Wonders of the World are some of the most photographed and recognizable sites on the planet. And, as with anything, when something becomes ubiquitous it has a tendency to lose its luster. The fear is that the initial awe and mystery that once shrouded these exotic and distant places has been lifted and – potentially – replaced by indifference. In an effort to reinvigorate the recognizable, we’ve dedicated this photoessay to the world’s most mysterious and hypnotic achievements of man – the New Seven Wonders of the World.
THE TAJ MAHAL – AGRA, INDIA A labor of love, the white marble mausoleum was built between 1631 and 1648 in memory of emperor Shah Jahan’s favorite wife. Of the Taj, American travel writer Bayard Taylor wrote: "Did you ever build a castle in the Air? Here is one, brought down to earth and fixed for the wonder of ages."
THE GREAT WALL OF CHINA Built by the Chinese Empire in the 5th century B.C., the Great Wall stretches 4,000 miles and once served as border protection from invading Mongols.
7 www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
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1. CHICHEN ITZA – YUCATAN PENINSULA, MEXICO The Temple of Kukulkan, also known as the El Castillo pyramid, is the icon of the ruins of Chichen Itza – an urban center in Mexico from A.D. 750 to 1200. Serving as an astronomical observatory, the Maya built El Castillo with 365 steps – representing the days in a year – and, during the spring and autumn equinoxes, a shadow in the shape of a serpent appears to descend the pyramid steps as the sun sets. 2. CHRIST THE REDEEMER – RIO DE JANEIRO, BRAZIL Erected on Corcovado mountain in 1931, the 130-foot, Art Deco-style statue of Jesus Christ took five years to complete and serves as the symbol of the city. 3. THE ROMAN COLOSSEUM – ITALY Nearly 2,000 years old, and serving as the largest amphitheater ever built, the Colosseum was used for staging violent gladiator games, battle reenactments, animal hunts and executions. 4. MACHU PICCHU - PERU The 15th-century Incan site is perched between two peaks in the Andes mountains. The citadel was later abandoned by the Incas and remained unknown until archaeologist Hiram Bingham rediscovered the site in 1911.
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2016 | 11
PETRA – JORDAN The roughly 2,000-yearold desert site – halfbuilt, half-carved into rock – is “A rose red city half as old as time,” writes poet William Burgon.
The microadventure movement “It’s always worth it.”
ADVENTURER ALASTAIR HUMPHREYS SHARES HIS PHILOSOPHY ON CLOSE-TO-HOME EXPLORATION By KARA SILVA Photos provided
That’s what U.K. author and itinerant traveler Alastair Humphreys says in his blog about upending the monotonous moments of daily life by seeking out microadventures – short, inexpensive and close-tohome outdoor experiences. As the inventor of the microadventure, Humphreys – who also wrote a book on the subject – uses the concept to inspire “real people with real lives” to “hit the refresh button” by getting back to nature for a day, an evening or even just an hour. Solo camping on a hilltop via bivvy bag, an impromptu trail hike under the stars and cycling the morning commute to work instead of driving are just a few examples of microadventures offered by Humphreys. “What was precious to me about my adventures was going to new places, leaving the boring bits of the ‘real world’ behind, slowing down, simplifying, having time to think, being out in nature and having fun,”
says Humphreys. “I realized that I did not need to go to the ends of the earth to find all those things.” Though Humphreys adheres to the notion that adventure is all around at all times, he is no novice when it comes to world travel. The 39-year-old Brit was named one of National Geographic’s Adventurers of the Year in 2012. His travel credentials include a round-the-world cycling journey that took him 46,000 miles through 60 countries; he has walked across southern India; rowed across the Atlantic Ocean; ran six marathons through the Sahara desert; and trekked 1,000 miles across the Arabian Peninsula’s Empty Quarter desert – a journey documented in the film “Into the Empty Quarter.” “Many people love the idea of adventure; of turning off the computer and heading for some place you have never been before; of sleeping under the stars and enjoying coffee with your friends as the sun rises in front of you,” says Humphreys. “Yet
most people do not have the time, or the inclination, to embark on an expedition that takes months or years to complete. And so, most people don’t have the chance to live as adventurously as they might dream of doing.” There is more opportunity for adventure than a person’s scant two weeks of vacation or even the weekend. As Humphreys points out in his blog, from 9-to-5 most people are occupied by job-oriented obligation, but the often-neglected 5-to-9 block of time can serve as a window of opportunity. “I am a busy person, like all of us,” says Humphreys, adding that he has benefitted enormously from taking microadventures during the 5-to-9 timeframe. “Just knowing that less than an hour from the computer … is an empty hilltop where I can lay back and watch the sun set this evening, is enough to bring a smile to my face.”
While the tenets of a microadventure include minimal planning and keeping it close to home, Humphreys has implemented the concept while traveling abroad, as well. On a recent trip to L.A., the microadventure mastermind put what he preaches to practice by setting aside time during his busy business trip to sleep under the stars. “Arriving in [L.A.], I felt jet-lagged and horrible. Instead of collapsing in a hotel room, I made the effort to seek out a deserted hilltop,” says Humphreys. “Nobody on Earth knew where I was; nobody disturbed me. And I grinned to myself as I woke the next morning – refreshed and ready to explore – with the best view of anyone in that enormous city.” • For more information about microadventures or Alastair Humphreys, visit www.alastairhumphreys.com or follow him on Twitter and Instagram at @al_humphreys.
-Continued on page 16
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“One of the problems with life is committing to adventures rather than thinking, ‘I’m too busy, so I’ll do it later’; this doesn’t work as we never get less busy,” says author and adventurer Alastair Humphreys. “So, I thought laying down the challenge of spending one night out a month … for a year would be an incentive to stop procrastinating. Also, if lots of people via my blog were sleeping out on the same night, then it might give a bit of moral support and encouragement to people to go and do it!” Take the challenge by having 12 microadventures over the next 12 months: one per month, for one year. First, declare your intention by sharing a picture on social media to officially make the commitment. Then designate a day to do a microadventure in each month, and mark it on your calendar or in your diary. Lastly, share your photos online using the #microadventure hashtag.
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Some ideas to get you started, according to Humphreys, include: • Sleep in your garden • Swim wild – in a river, lake or sea • Go solo • Take someone on his/her first microadventure • Take a child for his/her first microadventure • Do one on a work night • Sleep under a full moon • Get there by bike or foot • Paddle a river • Sleep outside on a snowy night
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KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2016 | 17
LAND After 100 years, the National Park Service continues to keep our home wild Story and photos by PAUL SCHNEIDER This year, the National Park Service is celebrating its centennial. By 1916, the nation had set aside dozens of iconic American landscapes like Yellowstone, the Yosemite Valley and the Grand Canyon without a cohesive vision of what was being protected, why, how and for whom. The idea that the nation’s natural treasures should be preserved in a state of wilderness for the enjoyment of all and that living beings – such as the bison of Yellowstone and the giant sequoias of the Sierras – should be protected in those settings was
18 | AUGUST 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
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big, unwieldy and unlike anything ever accomplished in modern society. These lofty goals were under constant threat from ranchers, hunters, miners, dams and railroads. Luckily, the parks had real-life “Loraxes” – John Muir and President Theodore Roosevelt. Muir, a naturalist, writer and fierce advocate for the creation of Yosemite National Park and preservation of wilderness in general, always felt most at home in the High Sierra and even entertained Roosevelt there. Muir took Roosevelt camping in Yosemite’s backcountry and, by the light of a campfire,
www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
¢ Badlands National Park: Badlands National Park in South Dakota provides a close-up study of the geological power of deposition and erosion. For an otherworldly experience, take the Badlands Loop Road drive to Sage Creek Rim Road at twilight to see wildlife – such as bison, bighorn sheep, pronghorn, prairie dogs and coyotes – prepare for nightfall. When the sunlight disappears, your headlights will throw the nearest peaks into sharp relief with some of the darkest night skies in the country. Camp at Cedar Pass Campground (available at recreation.gov) and hike the Notch Trail (1.5 miles roundtrip).
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ultimately was granted federal protection for Yosemite, which was then under state control and overrun with tourists and commercial enterprise.
-Continued to page 20 www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
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KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2016 | 19
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-Continued from page 19 are beginning to find out that going to the mountains is going home; that wildness is a necessity; and that mountain parks and reservations are useful not only as fountains of timber and irrigating rivers, but as fountains of life.” Given that the National Park Service recorded 307 million visitors last year, Muir’s statement has never been truer. Maybe, this year, it’s time to find yourself at home in the mountains, too. In honor of the centennial – and to evoke a bit of wanderlust – enjoy Schneider’s photographs of some of America’s national treasures.
20 | AUGUST 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
1. Olympic National Park:
2. Olympic National Park:
Washington’s wild coast is protected from development and set aside as part of Olympic National Park. Rocky seastacks jut out from under the waves and provide nesting sites for weary seabirds and hunting perches for bald eagles and osprey. Tide pools show off vibrantly colored sea anemones, starfish and sea urchins, while seals hunt in the waves just offshore. Camp at Kalaloch Campground (reserve a spot at recreation.gov) and book early to nab a spot with ocean views.
Hike Rialto Beach to Hole-in-the-Wall (3 miles roundtrip), head inland the next day to hike the Hoh River Trail through incredibly lush temperate rainforest to Five Mile Island and back (10 miles roundtrip). If you’re lucky, you’ll come across a Northern Spotted Owl (pictured) – a threatened species and the source of much controversy between conservationists and the timber industry – on the trail.
3. Mount Rainier National Park: Mount Rainier National Park, just southeast of Seattle, is home to the
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largest volcano in the Cascade Range. The wet, temperate Pacific climate produces lush green lowlands and the volcanic action in the range projects dramatic, isolated peaks holding the largest glaciers in the lower 48.
4. Grand Teton National Park: The payoff at the end of a seven-mile hike up the north fork of Cascade Canyon is an icy plunge into Lake Solitude (9,045 feet), an alpine lake fed by the snowfields above. Hike the Cascade Canyon Trail to Lake Solitude (14.4 miles roundtrip). Camp at Jenny Lake Campground (first come first serve, no
RVs) and don’t miss the chance to venture into the ski town of Jackson or to visit Yellowstone National Park (just to the north).
5. Grand Teton National Park: The Teton Range rises abruptly out of Jackson Hole Valley in Wyoming. There are no foothills here to subdue the intensity of the cathedral-like granite crags. Instead, you will find 7,000 feet of relief between the sprawling valley floor and the highest of the jagged peaks in Grand Teton National Park. You may see black bear, moose, the elusive mountain lion or the park’s abundant elk.
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22 | AUGUST 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
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Grab a bucket of feed and feed wild animals as you cruise through the 180-acre Virginia Safari Park. Hop out of the car to check out the walkthrough areas, such as the enclosed giraffe platform and the tiger territory. One-day admission is $19.95 for adults, $12.95 for children. 229 Safari Lane Natural Bridge | Virginia 540-291-3205 virginiasafaripark.com
Plan your day with a visit to our website: www.DowntownCL.org
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KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2016 | 23
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5. ENJOY A SKY-HIGH VIEW San Diego Zoo Safari Park in California has something for every animal-lover. Tours include caravan, cart, trike and even zip-line safaris. There are also overnight and behind-the scenes options. One-day zoo admission is $50 for adults, $40 for children, additional safari addons vary. 15500 San Pasqual Valley Road Escondido | California 760-747-8702 | sdzsafaripark.org
6. GET A BEAR HUG Or at least get close. Bearizona in Arizona is less than an hour from the Grand Canyon and specializes in walking and driving safaris that spotlight animals native to North America. Guests will see wolves, birds of prey, bison and, of course, lots of bears. One-day admission $20 for adults, $10 for children. 1500 E. Route 66 Williams | Arizona 928-635-2289 bearizona.com
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24 | AUGUST 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
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7. SEE HUNDREDS OF ANIMALS Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch in Texas is home to more than 500 animals from 40 different native, exotic and endangered species. And the sprawling 450-acre location offers stunning views of nature, such as rolling hills, creeks and oak trees. One-day admission is $22 for adults, $13.50 for children. 26515 Natural Bridge Caverns Road San Antonio | Texas 830-438-7400 wildliferanchtexas.com
8. CRUISE THROUGH THE WILD
1300 Oak Grove Road Pine Mountain | Georgia 706-663-8744 animalsafari.com/Georgia
9. RIDE A CAMEL Check out animals large and small at Wild Wilderness Drive Through Safari in Arkansas, which won a 2016 certificate of excellence from TripAdvisor. The 400acre safari is home to lions, leopards, hippos, ostriches and more. There also are walk-through and petting areas, and seasonal pony and camel rides. One-day admission is $15 for adults and $10 for children
Volleyball Club Tryouts Small Club with Big Results.
Kane County Jrs. Volleyball Club offers training and competition to the Fox Valley area. We are conveniently located just west of Geneva and just east of Elburn. Our Facility offers 4 courts in a private campus setting. Our coaching staff is dedicated to training our players to be the best they can be. Club practices are 3 times per week and our teams play in competitions 2 times per month. Competition starts after a full month of practices. Look for our upcoming tryouts on our website, [ http://www.kanecountyjrs ] www.kanecountyjrs.com. Tryouts for Middle School girls will be early to mid October. High School girls tryouts start late October into November. There will be multiple tryout dates. It is most advantageous to attend the first tryout in your age group. Kane County Jrs. Volleyball Club has developed many Division 1 volleyball players and outstanding High School players. KCJ teams participate in both USAV and JVA events.
Contact us early for complete tryout and club information. KC Johnsen at 630-338-9227 or Phyllis Johnsen at 630-232-9004 days or 630-879-6106 evenings.
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Come face-to-face with tigers, hyenas, zebras and more at Wild Animal Safari in Georgia. You can drive or rent a vehicle, or hop on the complimentary tour bus. Afterward, stroll around the zoo area to check out the smaller critters, like lemurs and peacocks. One-day admission is $20.95 for adults, $17.95 for children.
Unique. Unparalleled.
10. CHEETAH ENCOUNTER Guests can catch a glimpse of more than 300 mammals, reptiles and birds on driving or walking tours at Wildlife Safari in Oregon – a drive-thru wild animal park on 600 acres. For an additional fee, you also can select from different animal encounters, like meeting a cheetah or feeding bears.
Uncommon. Fine Line Creative Arts Center presents the 30th Anniversary of Uncommon Threads, the Fox Valley’s premier art-to-wear fashion show. It’s a fashion show unlike any other, featuring the finest in wearable fiber and textile art. Come and see exquisite handcrafted garments created using a variety of techniques including weaving, felting, knitting, painting, silk screen printing, and more.
1790 Safari Road Winston | Oregon 541-679-6761 wildlifesafari.net
The event takes place at the Q Center at 1405 N. 5th Ave. in St. Charles on Sunday, October 23, 2016. Tickets are $65 per person. 10:00 a.m.
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Call Fine Line at 630-584-9443 for ticket availability,
37W570 Bolcum Road St. Charles, IL 60175 Phone 630.584.9443 Fax 630.584.9490 info@fineline.org TRAVEL
or visit www.fineline.org for further details. Tickets will be issued in the order received. Tables seat 10 and tickets are issued as paid orders arrive. Tickets will be mailed on October 1, 2016. Ticket orders received after October 1st will be held at will call the day of the show.
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2016 | 25
QUINTESSENTIAL BRITAIN for first-timers heading across the pond Story and photos by TOM WITOM
Stonehenge retains its centuries-old secrets.
World-class attractions, heritage and culture might explain why Great Britain – England, Scotland and Wales – is such a tourist magnet. It drew a record 36.1 million foreign visitors in 2015, up 5.1 percent from 2014, according to the Office for National Statistics. Figures for 2016, so far, show the growth pattern continuing. Even though Great Britain has been a port of call for my wife and me at least a half-dozen times, we were eager to return to revisit favorite spots and explore attractions new to us. In May, we did just that, embarking on a guided holiday that took us on a direct flight from Chicago to London and, 18 days later, from Edinburgh back home. For those about to experience their first trip to Great Britain, here’s a smattering of highlights to consider:
Another impressive stopping-off point is Westminster Abbey, an iconic landmark in central London and the site of 38 coronations. Pay respects to Geoffrey Chaucer, known as the Father of English literature. His final resting place is in Poets’ Corner at the abbey. Another noteworthy place to spend a few hours is at the formidable Tower of London. The historic castle, said to pull more than two million visitors annually, is on the north bank of the River Thames. Built by William the Conqueror in the 1070s, the complex served as a fortress, a royal residence, a home for the Royal Mint and the Crown Jewels, a storehouse for military weaponry and a notorious prison. Political and religious prisoners abounded in the tower especially during the Tudor period in the wake of King Henry VIII’s break from Roman Catholicism. The Crown Jewels consist of a collection of historic ceremonial objects, including the regalia and vestments worn by kings and queens at their coronation. Visitors get a gander at crowns, scepters, orbs, swords and robes, plus many other priceless objects.
The British Museum, which has many exhibitions that are free to the public, is a must-see. Visitors will learn the history of the Rosetta Stone – a carved stone “tablet” dating back to 196 B.C. Its Egyptian symbols and Demotic and Greek script provided the key to the modern understanding of There isn’t a more dramatic way to view the city Egyptian hieroglyphs. than via the London Eye at Westminster Bridge While there, take time to marvel at the beguiling Road, which debuted in 2000 and is billed as the world’s largest cantilevered observation wheel. display of sculptures from the Parthenon. For a Is it worth the 45-minute wait in line? You bet! fee, visitors also can experience (through Nov. Each capsule holds up to 28 passengers who are 27) the exhibition “Sunken Cities: Egypt’s Lost given 360-degree views during the 30-minute Worlds.” Just be prepared to contend with the ride which, at its highest point, is nearly 443 feet inescapable crowds. 26 | AUGUST 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
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above the ground. Fans of mystery will want to consider a journey of about 88 miles from London to Wiltshire – the site of the prehistoric monument known as Stonehenge, dating back to 3,000 B.C. It consists of a set of stones laid out in concentric rings and horseshoe shapes on an empty plain. Exactly how those stones got there and what the site was used for (religious worship, burial ground, a place of healing?) remains shrouded in mystery. Anyone who fancies a walk through history will find Blists Hill Victorian Town in the Madeley area of Telford, Shropshire, England, to be their “cup of tea.” This re-created hamlet features dozens of shops depicting the Victorian era, including a grocery store, printing shop, iron factory and bank, among others. Many establishments offer costumed docents who share information on their specialties. The sweet shop sells a selection of old-fashioned candies, too. Geology buffs will relish a visit to the National Slate Museum in Gwynedd, Wales. A little off the beaten path, this interesting museum, which opened in 1972, rests in the shadow of Elidir mountain – the site of Dinorwig quarry which has roots tracing back to the 1780s. The sprawling complex offers insightful talks and demonstrations on a variety of subjects, including slate-splitting and quarry life. If time permits, add Scotland to the itinerary – even if it’s only for a few days. You’ll find www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
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$100 Discount Edinburgh a bustling and congenial place. Don’t be afraid to sample haggis, the Scottish national dish. True, it’s made with sheep’s offal mixed with onions, oats and seasonings – to some palates the dish brings to mind a British black pudding and a Polish blood sausage known as kishka. For another adventure, stop by the nearest pub to try aged single-malt scotch, and discover – firsthand – what all of the fuss is about. If it’s a visual experience you’re after, pop into the National Gallery of Scotland – a highly-accessible museum offering a taste of Dutch art (Vermeer) and the Impressionists (Monet, Degas and Pissarro). The museum café serves a respectable and affordable lunch. At every turn of our Great Britain adventure, scenic images presented themselves. One image that still lingers vividly in memory is Loch Lomond, a large freshwater lake that serves as the boundary between the lowlands of central Scotland and the Highlands.
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KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2016 | 27
High and mighty Novice hiker offers beginner’s guide to the Inca Trail Story and photos by KELSEY O’CONNOR
The bus was careening along the side of a cliff, high up in the Andes Mountains, when what I was about to do finally set in. My sister and I traveled to Peru to hike the Inca Trail to the mysterious Machu Picchu – an ancient Incan citadel and one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world. Having grown up in the Midwest, I had never hiked anything more intense than the trails at Starved Rock State Park, so to say I was a novice hiker is an understatement. The four-day trek was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done – but also one of the most rewarding.
28 | AUGUST 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
Here’s what first-time hikers should ¢ Plan ahead. know about the Inca Trail: Hiking the Inca Trail isn’t really something you can do on a whim. ¢ Know what you’re in for. There are a lot of regulations in place The trek covers 26 miles of vastly that help preserve the trail. Only 500 different terrain and altitude. Our guide described the trail as “Peruvian people are allowed on the trail a day flat,” which we quickly learned means and everyone is required to get a permit. The easiest way to set up a lots of hills. The toughest challenge hike is with a reputable tour operator. is Dead Woman’s Pass, a 13,828-foot We used Wayki Trek and they handled high mountain pass that we climbed the entire permitting process. You’ll on the second day. The entire trail want to book your tour six months is full of stunning views, llamas and Incan ruins. On the last day, we woke in advance if you’re going during the high season (May through October) up before dawn to hike to the Cloud and three months before for the low Gate and watch the sunrise over our season (November through April). The final stop – Machu Picchu. trail is completely closed in February. We booked eight months in advance, which is a little excessive, but it gave us time to monitor airfare and score a great deal. TRAVEL
www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
Retire on your terms. ¢ Be ready for anything. I mean anything. The weather in the Andes can turn on a dime, and fluctuates greatly depending on when you go. We went in May, during the dry season, but still carried light raincoats and lined our trekking packs with garbage bags in case of a sudden deluge. My best decision was to grab alpaca gloves and a hat at a market in Cuzco City the day before the trek. They came in handy during the cold mornings and nights. The climate can change dramatically on the trail within minutes, so wear lots of light layers that you can take on and off quickly. ¢ Know your limits. At the last minute, my sister and I decided to hire a porter to carry our heavier items, such as sleeping bags and extra food. It was literally a huge load off of our shoulders. The trail is difficult enough for first-time climbers without having to carry 15 extra pounds of gear. Even experienced hikers in our group were struggling at times. Don’t be afraid to hire a porter, use walking sticks or just go at your own pace.
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¢ Enjoy yourself. When I started the hike, I thought reaching Machu Picchu would be the highlight of the trip. But some of my favorite memories are from the trail, such as summiting Dead Woman’s Pass or when the chef baked us a cake on our last night. It’s easy to forget when you’re exhausted and your feet hurt, but the hike is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Make sure to take the time to appreciate your surroundings and just enjoy the experience. Because when it comes to the Inca Trail, it’s about the journey and the destination.
-Continued on page 30 www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
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KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2016 | 29
Ream’s Meat Market
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¢ 5 Things You May Not Think to Pack (But Should)
You’ll want to pack light for the hike, but make sure to leave room for these essentials: 1. Batteries. A couple in my group got in a fight on the final leg of the hike because their GoPro camera died. Save your memories (and relationship) by bringing extra batteries and portable chargers for all your electronics.
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2. Good book. Bring something to entertain you during downtime in the evenings. I brought my journal and Kindle loaded with “The Last Days of the Incas” by Kim MacQuarrie. 3. Headlamp. When you’re already carrying toilet paper to the bathroom in the middle of the night, the last thing you’ll want is to be fumbling with a flashlight. We also brought a small lantern to illuminate the tent after dark. 4. Cash. You’ll need it for tips at the end of the trek. Our group ended up tipping about 10 soles per porter (a little extra for the chef) and 50 soles for our guide. You can also buy snacks and drinks on the first day of the hike and once you’re at Machu Picchu. 5. Inflatable pillow. A few people in our group just rolled up sweatshirts to use as a pillow, and that worked fine for them. But because my clothes got pretty dirty, I was grateful to have a pillow at night. The inflatable kind takes up hardly any space in your bag when deflated.
“I had never hiked anything more intense than the trails at Starved Rock State Park, so to say I was a novice hiker is an understatement.” - Kelsey O’Connor on hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
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KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2016 | 31
The California landscape is sweeping, varied and vast. From the Hollywood hills and the Golden Gate Bridge to Yosemite National Park and Big Sur, California requires exploration, and there’s no better way to discover its intricacies than the open road.
CALIFORNIA ROAD TRIP
What I call the “Ultimate California Loop” begins and ends in San Diego (Car rentals are cheaper when the pick up/drop off location is the same place.) and hits many of Cali’s must-see national parks, cities and stops. Here is a 10-day itinerary to help kick start your journey. (All drive times are rough estimates.)
By KARA SILVA
DAY 7-9
DAY 5: Explore Tuolumne Meadows during the day. Drive to Napa Valley in the evening (5hour drive). Overnight in Napa Valley. SITE-SEEING TIPS: Trail hike to the top of Lembert Dome (2.8 miles roundtrip; 1.5 to 3 hours) for amazing views. Spend some time at Tenaya Lake, an alpine lake surrounded by granite domes. It has a beach, too! DAY 6: Explore Napa Valley. Overnight in Napa Valley.
DAY 1: Arrive in San Diego in the morning. Grab your bags; pick up your rental car; and drive 2.5 hours to L.A. straight away. (Explore San Diego at the end of the trip). Overnight in L.A. SITE-SEEING TIPS: The legendary Chateau Marmont Hotel on Sunset Boulevard is a good place for celebrity run-ins or enjoy a bus adventure with Esotouric for a literary tour of the old haunts and havens of L.A. writer Charles Bukowski.
DAY 2-3
DAY 2: Leave by 9 a.m. and drive five hours to Sequoia National Park. Overnight at Buckeye Flat campground, located in the heart of the Sierra foothills. No shower facilities, but a nearby waterfall is perfect for freshening up.
Park; and nearly 400 stairs will take you to Moro Rock for sweeping mountain valley views. DAY 3: A free day to explore Sequoia National Park and the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Overnight at Hume Lake Campground (2 hours from Buckeye Flat Campground) for some beachside relaxation. SITE-SEEING TIPS: For the popular General Sherman sequoia – the world’s largest living tree – visit the Giant Forest. Drive the General’s Highway through sequoia groves and montane forest. If you have time, drive the Kings Canyon Scenic Byway for spectacular views while traveling from Grant Grove to Cedar Grove. DAY 4: Wake up call at 7 a.m. Drive four hours to Yosemite National Park. Arrive around noon. Explore Yosemite Valley. Overnight at the amazing Tuolumne Meadows (2-hour drive from Yosemite Valley).
SITE-SEEING TIPS: Stop off at Tunnel View overlook for that post-card view of Yosemite’s granite monoliths. Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at Glacier Point – a viewpoint above Yosemite Valley. If visiting during the summer, hike and SITE-SEEING TIPS: climb atop a series of boulders to reach the basin Lots of opportunities of the prominent Bridalveil Fall, and take a dip to to see black bears cool off. at Sequoia National 32 | AUGUST 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
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SITE-SEEING TIPS: Have coffee and croissants at Bouchon Bakery. Visit the beautiful Chateau Montelena, as seen in “Bottle Shock” – a film that depicts the 1976 Paris wine competition, when California wine (Chateau Montelena) defeated French wine in a blind taste test; and visit Orin Swift tasting room in downtown St. Helena for quality red blends and a cool atmosphere. Don’t be afraid to share tastings; it’s less expensive and you can sample more wines. DAY 7: Drive to Big Sur via San Francisco and Highway 1. Overnight in a yurt with ocean views at Treebones Resort in Big Sur. SITE-SEEING TIPS: On the way to Big Sur, stop in Martinez to visit the John Muir National Historic Site – the home where conservationist and author John Muir wrote and raised his family. Quick stop in San Francisco to see the Golden Gate Bridge, and – later – have lunch in Carmelby-the-Sea – a cute-as-pie beach town of which Hollywood actor/director Clint Eastwood used to be the mayor. While driving the iconic coastal road Highway 1, stop just before Bixby Bridge for a great photo opportunity. DAY 8: Free day in Big Sur. Overnight in yurt at Treebones Resort. SITE-SEEING TIPS: Visit Henry Miller Memorial Library – an arts center, book shop and music www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
venue that honors the late writer and Big Sur resident Henry Miller. Check out McWay Falls and spend the rest of the day at Sand Dollar Beach before having a pint at Big Sur Taphouse.
DAY 9: Half day in Big Sur. Continue driving south on Highway 1. Drive to San Diego in the evening (6-hour drive from Big Sur). Overnight in San Diego.
SITE-SEEING TIPS: In Big Sur, hike Salmon Creek Trail (2 hours), which offers expansive ocean views. Stop in San Simeon, along Highway 1, to visit the Piedras Blancas Elephant Seal Rookery to watch wild elephant seals basking in the sun on a beach. DAY 10: Explore San Diego before heading to the airport for your flight back home.
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SITE-SEEING TIPS: If you haven’t had your fill of wine-tastings, stop by Orfila Vineyards and Winery in Escondido or visit the renowned San Diego Zoo Safari Park.
DAY 6
Day Out With Thoma omass TM TM © 201 20166 Gull Gullane ane (T (Thom homas) as) Limited. ed. Thom homas as & Friends ndsTM Based on The Railway Series by The Reverend W. Awdry. ©2016 ©20 16 Gul Gullanee (Tho (Thomas mas) Limited. Thomas as the Tank nk Eng Engine. Thom homas & Friends and Day Out With Thomas are trademarks of Gullane (Thomas) ® TM Limite Lim ited. d. ©20 ©2016 16 Mat Mattel tel.. All A Rig Rights hts Re Reser served. an andd designat natee U.S. U trademarks of Mattel, except as noted.
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KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2016 | 33
Shanghai
INSIDE CHINA’S BIGGEST CITY By YVONNE BENSON
You look around Shanghai and you might as well be submerged in any major American city. The homes look familiar, everything is written in English and everyone seemed to know the language. My friend said it best, “The hardware looks the same but the software is completely different.” I was delighted by Shanghai during my 10-day Chinese tour in April. Shanghai, China’s largest city, is located along the central coast. The city is pretty navigable, as using public transportation is a breeze and smartphones make taking to the city streets on foot easy. When in need, I could show an address to a pedestrian and he or she would readily point me in the right direction. The captivating views of Pudong – a district of Shanghai, located across from the historic city center of Shanghai – from the Bund, a waterfront area, put Chicago’s skyline to shame. Unlike anything I have seen in the U.S., its spires and globes and even the second tallest building in the world light up with bright, dynamic designs, shapes, advertisements and messages, like “I love Shanghai.” Dozens of newlyweds with photographers posed for glamorous photos in front of the skyline while tourists took selfies. The Bund, an international settlement along the Huangpu River, was developed by foreign financial businesses in the early 20th century. I noticed that there was only one building that featured Chinese architecture along the entire strip. Shanghai is a relatively new city – even compared to the U.S. It was mostly built up within the past 200 years with a boom around the 1940s. I visited one of the oldest parts of the city, Yuan Market, designed in the architecture styles of the late Ming and Qing Dynasties. It is an
overwhelmingly popular attraction where you can look at and buy traditional Chinese candies, snacks and knick-knacks. My favorite part of Shanghai was the French Concession neighborhood. Wandering around on foot, I discovered it was Shanghai Fashion Week. Fabulously dressed people posed for pictures in intricate doorways and alluring alleys. It was along one of these streets where I found T8 – an enticing restaurant run by a Spanish chef. Made to look like a 19th-century shikumen home, the restaurant serves “contemporary, Asian-flavored cuisine” and has a “one-of-a-kind wine list for boutique bottles rarely seen in Shanghai,” according to the restaurant’s website. Natural light cascaded in through large windows in the restaurant while water flowed around the entryway. Shanghai is a city where you can find any kind of restaurant you want, and T8 was a perfect example. Also within the French Concession area was Taikang Terrace, a community of local artists and craftsmen who sell their pieces between intriguing cafés, bars and restaurants, and in galleries and shops. The streets are narrow and would abruptly end, making it feel like a wonderful maze. I loved getting lost while looking at amazing galleries and buying handmade leather shoulder bags. On the surface, Shanghai looks familiar to American eyes, but it still feels like a foreign place. The framework – the buildings, transportation and even the availability of a variety of food – is familiar, but that’s where it ends. That’s what made China alluring to me during my trip and Shanghai is not only a standout, but my favorite city during the tour.
Tips for trips to Shanghai • T-MOBILE – T-Mobile offers free data and texting without any special additions to our plan. • PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION – Easy to use, clean and quiet. • AIR POLLUTION – The sky looks continually overcast because of the smog, so a face mask is good to have. • ENGLISH – Everybody is taught English in school and most of the signs at least use English letters. Furthermore, since Shanghai is an international financial hub, many streets have English names. • SAFETY – Our tour guides assured us throughout Beijing, Hong Kong and Shanghai that each city was very safe. I compare them to any American city. We had money belts under our clothes but we wouldn’t use them if we went again. • ALCOHOL – Much more expensive than in the U.S.; however, they had a good variety in Shanghai. • BATHROOMS – There are public bathrooms all over the place. They are clean and – in Shanghai – often had Western toilets. Sometimes it’s necessary to grab toilet paper at the door or bring it with you, because it was not always provided in the stalls. • RESTAURANTS – Unless you’re at a fancy restaurant, napkins aren’t always provided. When napkins are provided, they’re the size of what you might get when ordering a cookie from a café in the U.S. Water isn’t automatically brought to the table and servers don’t usually refill your glass. Lastly, the service at restaurants is good, but different. The servers only come to your table when you wave them down; they’re not obsequious. • MONEY – The exchange rate during our trip was about 1:6. It was easiest for me to think of 100 Chinese Yuan to be a little less than $20. Most of the time we used cash that we got from Travelex ahead of time, but there also were Citibanks with ATMs where we withdrew more money as needed. One thing to note is that only new currency is used in China. • FASHION – People dress up in Shanghai, especially when going to a restaurant.
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TRAVEL
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2016 | 35
Brews from beyond
LOCAL ESTABLISHMENTS ALLOW BEER-DRINKERS TO TRAVEL BY TASTE By ELIZABETH HARMON Photo by ALDO RISOLVO Can’t get away this summer? Enjoy some international adventure in a pint glass. Nothing beats a cold beer on a hot summer day, and Kane County residents can sample dozens of the world’s finest brews without leaving the area. If you love craft brews and want to continue your exploration of the world of beer; miss the sudsy deliciousness of your homeland; or if you just returned from a trip and are wondering if you can get the same stuff back home, then look no further.
To aid in the hunt, here is a list of places that offer a slew of unique imported brews:
¢ VINOTHAI
¢ TASTE OF HIMALAYAS
VinoThai serves a traditional Thai menu and offers two beers from Thailand: Singha and Chang. Singha, a light-colored, but strong-tasting beer, is the most popular, VinoThai manager Brenda Hang says of the two brews.
110 N. 3rd St., St. Charles www.tasteofhimalayas.com The Taste of Himalayas restaurant specializes in Indian and Nepalese cuisine, and it also serves beers from those areas. Kingfisher and Taj Mahal are well known Indian brews, while one of the restaurant’s more unusual beers, Khukuri, originates in Nepal.
¢ JURIN JAPANESE RESTAURANT 1772 S. Randall Road, No. 190, Geneva 588 Randall Road, South Elgin www.jurinrestaurant.com JuRin Japanese Restaurant carries popular Japanese beers, such as Sapporo, Asahi and Kirin, and also serves Ginga – a unique, unfiltered ginger beer – to accompany sushi, hibachi and kitchen-prepared entrees.
¢ EAST CHINA INN Four locations in Batavia and Aurora eastchinainn.com East China Inn offers Tsingtao beer, a product of China’s second-largest brewery.
3825 E. Main St., St. Charles www.vinothai.com
¢ MACARENA TAPAS 1890 W. Main St., St. Charles 618 S. Route 59, Naperville macarenatapasstcharles.com Macarena Tapas serves Spanish small plates and entrees that go great with one of the restaurant’s four Spanish beers: Mahou, a 1906 Special Reserve; Estrella Galicia; and Estrella Damm. Naperville manager Victor Borras considers Estrella Damm his personal favorite. “There’s a bit of an amber tone to it; it’s a little sparkling and a little bitter, with a long aftertaste,” Borras says.
¢ U SAMBA? CAFÉ 37 W. New York St., Aurora www.usambacafe.com U Samba? Café specializes in traditional Brazilian food, and serves two Brazilian beers, Xingu (pronounced “Shin-goo”), a dark beer, and Palma Louca, a pilsner. “I like the light one, but my wife prefers the dark beer,” says owner Rafael Baglioli.
36 | AUGUST 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
DINING & ENTERTAINING
www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
¢ BINNY'S BEVERAGE DEPOT 1950 Lincoln Hwy., St. Charles www.binnys.com
LIKE IRELAND, ONLY CLOSER.
Popular imports like Heineken (Netherlands), Guinness (Ireland), Beck’s (Germany), Red Stripe (Jamaica), Labatt (Canada) and Corona (Mexico) are widely available at bars, supermarkets and liquor stores, but for more unusual imports, larger spirit shops are likely to have the best selection. Marty Elkmann, beer buyer for Binny’s Beverage Depot in St. Charles, says that most of his imported beer customers are looking for European brands, particularly those from Germany, Belgium and Poland. Although American craft beers are the current hot trend, import beer drinkers are just as passionate. “They’re loyalists, and this is the beer that they drink,” says Elkmann, adding that some of his customers have moved here from other countries and want to continue drinking the familiar beers of their homeland, while others may have discovered a particular brew while traveling. “We have people come in who’ve gone to Germany and fell in love with it, and now want to buy those beers.” In addition to six packs, some of Binny’s imported beers are sold by the bottle, allowing customers to sample a new beer easily. Here is a list of new brews to consider sampling: • CHIMAY: A Belgian beer, originally brewed by Trappist monks, or Lindeman’s, a Belgian fruit beer. • ZYWIEC: A Polish pilsner, has more body and bite than familiar American pilsners, Elkmann says. • BALTIKA: Russia’s most popular beer, comes in a variety of styles, each designated with a number. Binny’s carries Baltika 4, a dark lager, and Baltika 5, a golden lager.
630.513.6300 mcnallyspub.com
109 West Main St St. Charles, IL 60174 SM-CL0357779
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• SVYTURYS: This beer is from Lithuania, and it also comes in a variety of styles. Binny’s carries both the ale and lager.
Kitchen Open Late SM-CL0357782
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DINING & ENTERTAINING
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2016 | 37
Taste of Italia
A CULINARY TOUR OF THE BEST ITALIAN RESTAURANTS IN KANE COUNTY By ALLISON HORNE
Y
ou don’t need to travel to Italy – or even Chicago – to get authentic Italian food and the familial atmosphere that goes along with it. Many Italian transplants have taken their recipes and love for cooking and sharing (and eating) to Kane County, making it nearly impossible to leave a local Italian eatery unsatisfied.
Whether you prefer pizza, pasta or large portions of pasta, the array of delicious Italian restaurants in the area provides plenty of reason to hit the town with an empty belly and some pants with wiggle room.
¢ ACQUAVIVA WINERY 47W614 Route 38 | Maple Park 630-513-6770 | acquavivawinery.com Taste local wines with hearty Italian dishes at the Acquaviva Winery, which was voted Best of the Fox for Italian fare this year. The restaurant and vineyard is located in Maple Park, and is the source of award-winning Italian-style wines, such as Prairie Star, Piacere, Brianna and more. A grand entryway with hand-painted murals depicting old-world scenes from Italy greets visitors. Start with the Cozze Al Vino Bianco – sauteed mussels, garlic, extra virgin olive oil, white wine and Italian crostini – and order the Scallops Imperial – lightly panko-crusted Maryland wild scallops wrapped in pancetta with sautéed spinach and shrimp risotto – as an entree.
¢ FRANCESCA’S BY THE RIVER 200 S. Second St. | St. Charles 630-587-8221 | miafrancesca.com One of 13 Chicagoland locations, Francesca’s by the River brings the taste of Tuscany, Rome, Umbria and Lazio to downtown St. Charles. Try the Quattro Stagioni pizza with prosciutto, artichoke, mushroom, olives and topped with a fried egg, or the Barramundi con Porri e Funghi – a roasted Australian seabass with wild mushrooms, fresh tomatoes and a leek cream sauce. With a warm, cozy environment (fireplace included) and reasonably-priced dishes, Francesca’s is a must-go for a casual drink at the bar or large family outing.
¢ CHARLIE FOX’S PIZZA 3341 W. Main St. | St. Charles 630-443-8888 | charliefoxpizza.com. What started as a pizza joint has turned into a full-fledged restaurant, boasting the best pizza in Kane County (made in ovens from the 1920s) alongside premium sandwiches, burgers and homemade pasta. Try the Charlie Chips – a basket of kettle chips covered with bacon and mozzarella cheese and sides of ranch dressing and jalapeños – or the Godfather specialty pizza with Italian beef, hot giardiniera and onions. Swing by Charlie Fox’s Sunday through Thursday for daily specials, or cater your next event with their small or large tray options.
38 | AUGUST 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
DINING & ENTERTAINING
¢ GAETANO’S RESTAURANT 15 E. Wilson St. | Batavia 630-406-3009 | gaetanosbatavia.com Gaetano’s could have easily been plucked from the streets of Italy and placed in Batavia. With an outdoor patio and a handmade Italian oven, this place has it all. Every Thursday, Gaetano’s hosts live music and a discount for “Gaetapas,” a three-course tasting menu. The restaurant turns into an Italian market every Saturday for the Batavia Farmer’s Market, complete with arancini, fresh pasta, dinners to go, meats and much more. Don’t forget dessert! The tiramisu has been getting rave reviews.
¢ ISACCO’S KITCHEN 131 S. First St. | St. Charles 630-444-0202 | isaccokitchen.com Isacco’s Kithcen may have moved to a new location, but the same great Chef Isacco Vitali (born and raised in Italy) is back with an exquisite menu for a great date spot. The venue is more intimate (seats 35), but the menu still brings the wow with seasonal ingredients and an emphasis on fresh seafood. Vitali also caters, so you can snag your favorite meals for the entire family.
¢ POMODORO E MOZZARELLA PIZZERIA 1850 W. Main St. | St. Charles 630-549-0589 | thepomodoroemozzarella.com It may not be very big, but this Italian gem definitely packs a punch. The family-owned eatery features pizza and pasta that is affordable, and the owners are usually on hand to chat with every customer. Seating is limited, and takeout is the norm at this must-visit restaurant. www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
¢ ROMANO MERCATO ITALIANO 210 Cedar St. | St. Charles 630-797-5566 You can’t come here just once. You can dine in or carry out at this family-owned deli, which features hot and cold sandwiches, paninis, pastas, soup, specialty coffee and desserts. Not only does it cater, but take-and-bake meals are a fan favorite for a delicious dinner or lunch at home. (We won’t tell that you didn’t make it).
¢ NUOVA ITALIA RISTORANTE 18 N. Fourth St. | St. Charles 630-584-4040 | nuovaitaliastcharles.com Nestled inside of an old church, Nuova Italia provides a unique dining experience with classic Italian food to boot. The St. Charles location is Chef Antonio Lettieri’s second Chicagoland venture, which he opened after he found great success at the Addison location. The extensive menu provides plenty of options, and a wood-burning oven gives all of the pizzas that extra special touch.
¢ VILLA VERONE RISTORANTE ITALIANO 416 Hamilton St., Geneva 630-232-2201 | villaverone.com Villa Verone has been a staple in the Geneva community for more than 20 years. The family-owned restaurant features a huge wine list, outdoor patio, and the Upper Club, a martini bar and dance club located upstairs. Be sure to try the fixed price “prezzo fisso menu,” which includes one appetizer, two entrees, one dessert and one bottle of wine.
¢ LA ZA’ZA’ TRATTORIA 5 S. 1st St. | St. Charles 630-443-9304 | www. zazasitaliansteakhouse.com A prime location in downtown St. Charles, Zaza’s serves pasta, chops, seafood and pizza in a sophisticated yet relaxed setting. Voted best Italian restaurant in the 2016 Best of the Fox contest. www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
SM-CL0357784
DINING & ENTERTAINING
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2016 | 39
‘The World is a Good Place’
Aurora resident cycling across Europe shares insights from the road By PETER STADALSKY | Photos PROVIDED
M
y girlfriend, Lydia, and I are currently undertaking a 115-day bicycle trip across Europe. Two novice cyclists against the world.
Our Great European Adventure, as we call it, started in Ireland and will take us through the U.K., France, Switzerland, Italy, Croatia, Greece and then somehow back to Spain for our flight home. The plan is to cycle the route entirely, with all of our gear strapped to our bikes and no tour guide or pre-planned itinerary. I’ve crossed America various times on foot, by canoe, on motorcycle and by hitchhiking, so I knew that my next big adventure had to be of such considerable feats that I couldn’t fathom its accomplishment. On previous trips, I’ve had the privilege of stripping myself of all resources and creature comforts and setting off into the unknown. 40 | AUGUST 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
These trips have taught me that personal growth begins where one’s comfort zone ends. I also love these kinds of adventures because, in my weakest moments and without any expectations – more often than not – some kind stranger will reach out to lend a helping hand. With all of the tragic headlines in the media, we need some positivity to balance our worldly view. And I find great pleasure in reporting back to my homeland that the world is filled with gracious people. I’ve learned that the simplest things can have the most profound impact on a person’s life. Being offered a hot shower, warm meal or dry place to sleep have been some of the greatest gifts anyone has ever offered me. And it is those little acts of kindness that restore my faith in humanity. Slowing down allows me to see that the little things in life are the most important. My adventures have taught me that giving up the need to control life’s course allows it to flow HEALTH & WELLNESS
effortlessly from one chapter to the next. Things always seem to fall perfectly into place – if I let them. Our travel blog, “The World is a Good Place,” aims to not only document our European adventure but the acts of kindness and the moments of serendipity that we experience while on the road. One such moment was when, in a tiny Dublin pub in a city populated by half a million people, we managed to bump into the family that sat next to us on the plane. Another moment came when we had lunch in a small restaurant referred to as “The Goat.” Later that evening, at a bed and breakfast a few towns over, our host asked where we had dined that day, and our response left her awestruck. “The Goat” is where her daughter works. For half a day, we saddled up with two cyclists from California before parting ways. How mysterious it was to bump into the same
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Festival OF THE Vine SEPTEMBER 9-11 cyclists days later on some nowhere rural road. Thus far we’ve endured great mountains, been welcomed into people’s homes, chased by dogs and camped on cliffs overlooking the sea. We’ve tested the durability of our bikes by unintentionally crashing and quickly discovered the sorest backsides we’ve ever known. There’s always duality in adventure. The uncomfortable parts make the finer moments so much sweeter. And when times get tough, the suffering only comes from resistance of what is. Peace comes from accepting the situation; knowing that this too shall pass. Those downhill coasts would never feel so wonderful if we didn’t burn our thighs for a half day getting to the summit. u To follow Peter Stadalsky’s adventure, visit www.theworldisagoodplace.com.
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Good and plenty! Geneva’s Festival of the Vine provides plenty of good wine, good food and good fun for the whole family! Taste wines from around the world. Sample mouth-watering specialties from Italy, Mexico and France at our Flavor Fare. Find unique gifts at our incredible Fine Arts and Crafts show. For events schedule and details, go to visitgenevaillinois.com. We hope to see you there!
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630-232-6060 • visitgenevaillinois.com
HEALTH & WELLNESS
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2016 | 41
Fall favorites
5 MUST-HAVE FASHIONS FOR THE SEASON With a new season, comes new styles. The desire for tranquility, strength and optimism have inspired this year’s fall color palette, and we are loving what we see.
Whether you’re heading back to school or sticking around this fall, we’ve selected five seasonal pieces to rejuvenate your look.
1.
THE AMUSE SOCIETY MILITARY JACKET
Amazing color, light weight and can layer with anything.
2.
BAGGU TOTE BAG
Perfect size and a great add-on to your accessories
3.
BLACK ORCHID DENIM
A go-to for everyday wear
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BEHÖVA LONGSLEEVE SHIRT
Perfect as a standalone or placed under a sweater
5.
QUAY SUNGLASSES
These “sunnies” may be different, but add a fun and unique spin to any outfit
u Jori & June is located at 25 S. Third St. in Geneva. For more information, visit www.joriandjune.com.
42 | AUGUST 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
FASHION & BEAUTY
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MUSIC OF THE HEART Teacher Lisa Hatfield is instrumental in school district’s arts education program By MELISSA RUBALCABA RISKE | Photo by RON MCKINNEY From selecting an instrument to stringing together those first notes of a melody, music teacher Lisa Hatfield loves her job. Hatfield is the fifth-grade band teacher for Batavia School District 101, providing band instruction to students at the district’s six elementary schools. She is about to start her 10th year in the district, and it will be her fifth year helping students embark on their musical journeys. “I get them right at the beginning, and it is such a trip,” Hatfield says. She meets her students as fourth-graders, while they try out instruments and register for band. During the summer, she meets with her students for a two-week band camp where they learn how to assemble their instruments, care for them and how to play the beginning notes. By the end of camp, the students are able to play their first tune – “Hot Cross Buns.” “They learned how to put their instrument together the week before, and then they are performing a demo concert for their parents. The kids feel amazing and it brings it all together,” Hatfield says. Throughout the school year, her schedule can be hectic as she travels to a different school each day of the week, but Hatfield says that it’s work she loves. “Lisa is a true gift to her students, her schools and her community,” says former band instructor Susan Ozsvath, who was the supervising teacher for Hatfield during her early years in the district. “She’s the perfect combination of talent, creativity and fun.” In the last three years, Hatfield’s work has earned her awards and the district has top marks for music education in the state. Hatfield credits her mentors and fellow music instructors for helping with the success of the band program.
“I’m very fortunate to work in a district that really supports music education,” says Hatfield, who started her own music career as a pianist around the age of 4. “Ever since then, I wanted to pick up every instrument,” she says. Music is part of her family. Hatfield’s mother played band during her time in school, as did her brother, who – on occasion – will bring out his tuba and join Hatfield in a performance. Hatfield was in sixth grade when she selected the saxophone as her band instrument. She says that her teacher tried to encourage her to try clarinet, but Hatfield says that the saxophone seemed to fit her personality. “I really enjoyed jazz, funk and rock,” she says. As a teacher, Hatfield finds that there is a connection between an instrument and a student’s personality, and that her own bubbly, outgoing personality was a good fit for the saxophone. She played through grade school and high school, and attended VaderCook College of Music for her bachelor’s degree. Though she had been able to play with fellow musicians, and in concerts, Hatfield was drawn to music education. “I really wanted to make a difference, and music education was the way to go,” she says. “When I see my students excel it makes me feel like a good musician.”
Northern Illinois University. In the summers, she teaches graduate classes at VanderCook, helping future music educators understand the role of technology and music in the classroom. Hatfield says that today’s technology, from apps on smartphones and tablets to online programs, are a great way to enrich music education. “If I would have had some of these things growing up, they would have helped me and made practicing so much more fun,” she says.
From time to time, she plays with an ensemble – such as the Chicagoland Pop Orchestra – bringing out her saxophone or her more recent instrument of choice, the ukulele. She enjoys open mic performances and playing with the VanderCook alumni jazz band.
And while district enrollment has fluctuated, Hatfield says she is excited to see the enrollment in band remains steady through the years, which means she can continue to see her students from when they first pick up an instrument to performing in the final spring performances.
“That way, I still get my own musical fulfillment,” she says.
“To see the joy on these kids faces – it is the coolest feeling in the world,” Hatfield says.
She received a master’s degree in music education and instructional technology from
HEALING SPACE 2075 Foxfield Road, Suite 102, St. Charles, IL 60174
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BUSINESS & CIVIC
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2016 | 43
Call Me Old Fashioned Antiques
Call Me Old Fashioned Antiques is the newest addition to Trellis Farm and Garden in St. Charles. Taking a cue from its original dairy-barn origins, the shop holds a mix of antiques, collectibles and primitives at affordable prices, and offers customers a unique shopping experience. With creative displays and new inventory being added daily, it is sure to please any treasure hunter and offers a one-stop-shop for any home decorating needs. Follow us on Instagram @ oldfashionedantiques to see the latest inventory and design ideas.
Photos provided
2N492 Kirk Road | St. Charles | 630-584-2024 Open 8 to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday; 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday; and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday
Frivolous Treasures
Located in downtown Elburn, Frivolous Treasures is home to roughly 15 dealers who are committed to providing customers with a fun and affordable shopping experience. Items include antique and vintage-inspired wares, urban farmhouse, architectural finds, Euro chic, home décor, painted furniture, garden décor, handcrafted cards, candles, fair trade, gifts, seasonal décor, Star Trek memorabilia and jewelry. Follow Frivolous Treasure on Facebook. 138 N. Main St. (Route 47) | Elburn | 630-847-5138 Open 7 days a week | 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday; and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday
Photos provided
Kane County Antique and Flea Market
Once a month, the Kane County Antique and Flea Market, located at the Kane County Fairgrounds in St. Charles, offers wares from dealers across the country. About 1,000 indoor and outdoor booths feature antiques, collectibles and memorabilia, furniture, glassware and china, quilts, vintage clothing, toys, jewelry and more. The flea market takes place the first Sunday and preceding Saturday of every month from March through December. Admission is $5, children under the age of 12 (with parents) will be admitted free of charge, and parking is free. Photos provided
Kane County Fairgrounds | 525 S. Randall Road | St. Charles www.kanecountyfleamarket.com
Varied
Amazing Grace Antiques
This historic home’s 14-plus rooms are filled with affordable antiques, primitive to Victorian. Shop in this relaxed, kidfriendly, hometown atmosphere, where the coffee and hugs are free. A garden has been added to the shop, too.
Photos provided
401 N. Main Street (Route 47) Elburn | 630-365-2006 www.amazingraceantiques.da bz/ Follow us on Facebook
Bee-Attitudes Antiques Located in a beautiful Victorian home on the corner of Batavia Ave. and Wilson St., we have eight dealers in our shop at the moment, so there is sure to be something for everyone. Glassware, artwork, lighting fixtures, oriental decor, jewelry, mirrors and silverware. In furniture, we carry various styles, including French, Victorian and cottage chic. Rt. 31 & Wilson St. | Batavia | (630) 761-0813 Open MON-SAT 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and SUNDAY NOON to 5 p.m.
Photos by Joe Perez
America's Treasures
America’s Treasures Antiques, Furniture and Gifts is a 5,800-square-foot space and has more than 30 dealers. Items available for purchase include furniture, shabby chic, traditional antiques, lighting and home décor. The shop also offers Vintage Market & Design paint, Miss Mustard Seed Milk paint and Fusion Mineral paint. A local delivery service is available for large or heavy items. Follow us on Facebook to see all of the shop’s new items.
Photos provided
Treasures
10 N. Third St. | Geneva | 630-208-1003 www.AmericasTreasuresGeneva.com Open 7 days a week | 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday - Saturday; and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday
SOUVENIR STYLE
DECORATING WITH WORLDLY WARES REAWAKENS MEMORABLE JOURNEYS By DANA MCKENNA
W
hether your house has 10 bedrooms, or your apartment is 800 square feet, home is a place where life and style come together. Whatever your taste – boho-chic, elegant vintage, kid-friendly or plush comfort – your travels can become an integral part of your home’s decor. Why not surround yourself with treasures from your favorite journeys? “Decorating with mementos from a special vacation or a trip is a great way to relive special moments,” says Kate Mikelsons of Design Essentials in Geneva. “Incorporating these items into your home with a little creativity can make any space special.” Using a popular color or color scheme from your favorite destination is another way to relate your space to a place you consider special. Different regions of the world have their own color preferences and trends. For example, some tropical locations use bolder patterns or pastels while others take a natural approach by infusing the color of the ocean with crisp white or beige tones. When it comes to the palette of your preferred destination, paint and fabric selections can go a long way; or, better yet, bring home material or fabrics from your travels to create stylish seat covers, bedspreads or chic curtains.
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Another fashionable means of incorporating your globetrotting is by creating an actual display. Try a family photo gallery with collages from your various vacations. Don’t be afraid to mix and match your journeys on the same wall space. The key is to be selective, and let your memories cover the walls of different rooms, hallways and even down a stairway wall. Mikelsons suggests mixing it up further: “There are some interesting frames out there now and different ways to print – canvas, giclée and photo paper all have different textures. You might also consider printing in black and white, or playing with scale, matte color and size to add interest.”
glass or colorful pebbles. For those who vacation on beaches often, Mikelsons suggests buying a shadow box and filling it with sand from different trips. “Each layer tells the story of where you’ve been,” says Mikelsons. “This can be displayed in a powder room, hallway, nook – any room that has a coastal or beachy theme. And, adding a thin layer of colored sand in between the layers of found sand is a way to incorporate the existing color palette of your home.”
Keepsakes and souvenirs have a tendency to trigger vivid memories and feelings. So, by Three-dimensional souvenirs and travel decorating with them, each tchotchkes – such as rocks, seashells time you walk down a hallway, and figurines – can be layered on top of chat with friends around the a coffee table book or a decorative box, coffee table or go up the stairs, says Mikelsons. you’ll have the opportunity to “Use your mementos [as] conversation relive that once-in-a-lifetime adventure, magical journey starters, and place them anywhere people sit or spend time around,” says or family vacation. Mikelsons. “Even if it doesn’t match that’s OK, because you want it to stand out so you can talk about your trip and relive the experiences.” Beach holidays present some of the simplest and least expensive decorating options, such as filling up dishes with collected seashells, sea
Design Essentials, Inc., is located at 407 S. Third St., Suite No. 114, Geneva. For more information about Design Essentials, call 630-444-2144 or visit www.designessentialsco.com.
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KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2016 | 47
garden center PANIC AT THE
with MEAGAN PROVENCHER
up. If you don’t know quite what you want, spend some time just wandering (and bring a notebook so you can write down some names of things that catch your eye). Then, once you grab a salesperson, you will already have some I’ve realized that many people may walk into items about which to ask. This will help you a garden center and feel the same way I feel when I walk into a shopping mall. Overwhelmed narrow down your choices faster. 3. DON’T BITE OFF by the choices, colors and information (or MORE THAN YOU CAN CHEW. lack thereof), afraid to ask questions and not We all think that we have more than 48 hours prepared for the cost. in a weekend. Be realistic about what you can To help you focus on what you need to tackle in your free time. Work on one section of accomplish (and not freak out when you get your space at a time and only purchase what out of your car and see all of the flowering you can handle with the time you have. goodies), here are some tips to arm you with “pre-knowledge” before heading to the garden 4. BRING MEASUREMENTS. Measurements help with many things. They can center. aid us in determining how much space you may 1. BE PREPARED. have to fit a tree or other large plants. They will If you are working on a specific spot, removing help us help you figure out how much mulch or and replacing a dead plant or just need to add compost you need. They even help determine a little color, bring a photo of the area. We can any additional “surprises” that may pop up in usually look at a photo and name off several the course of the project, like utilities, windows, plants that will work in that particular spot. walkways or sod that will need to be removed. That will help you get in and out, and back 5. IMPULSE BUYS home planting rather quickly. ARE GOOD AND BAD. 2. GIVE YOURSELF I would be lying if I said I didn’t bring plants TIME TO SHOP AND BROWSE. home without thinking about where they Garden centers are busy places in the spring will end up. I’m a sucker for color and tend and summer and sometimes the staff is tied to find something at least once a week. I hate to shop. There are too many choices, too many colors and trends, not enough helpful salespeople, and – of course – never enough money.
(Hey, I’m at the nursery all of the time; it’s bound to happen!) While it’s fun to grab the latest blooming goodie (Check out the “Blue Enchantress” Hydrangea, now that’s an impulse buy that would be worth it!), take a second to think about where the plant should go in the garden. I often tell folks that have no color in the summer in their gardens that they have to start shopping every two to three weeks throughout the season, rather than just in May. May shoppers tend to just buy what’s flowering. Therefore, their gardens tend to just look good in May. Shopping periodically is a great way to add to a perennial garden and help distribute your color throughout the season. Remember, use the garden center staff to your advantage. If you start to get the heebie-jeebies when you get out of the car and see flowers in all directions, just flag a staff member down, and he or she will be happy to help. Meagan Provencher is the Sr. Landscape Designer for Wasco Nursery in St. Charles. She is the 2016 Illinois Certified Professional of the Year. She can be reached at 630-584-4424 or design@ wasconursery.com
91 Years A Growing Legacy Quality Plants, Professional Service & Expert Advice . . . Since 1925
Enjoy Your Yard This Summer! Visit Wasco Nursery to find beautiful flowers and foliage to add color and interest to your home.
Locally grown trees, shrubs, evergreens, perennials and a knowledgeable staff to assist you. Brightly colored hanging baskets, containers, geraniums, annuals, and tropical plants.
Unique garden décor including glazed, cast stone and terra cotta pottery; decorative ironwork; statuary and fountains.
91 “Meeting your growing needs since 1925.” 41W781 Route 64 | St. Charles | 630-584-4424 | wasconursery.com HOME & LIFESTYLE
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2016 | 49
Upcoming Free Events: •Energy Healing Webinar - Sunday, July 24 8pm Dr. Mitchell will discuss the type of energy work we offer both in-ofďŹ ce and long-distance. •Thermography Event - Thursday, August 11 6pm Dr. Mitchell and Kelly White, CT will explain the role of thermography in today's medical world.
Call 847-304-5526 to register!
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50 | AUGUST 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
FAMILY in FOCUS
WELL-ROUNDED WELL-BEING Tapping into inner vitality to bring about true health When I began practicing medicine as an OB/GYN physician 36 years ago, I quickly learned that my patients were coming to me for more than a check-up. They wanted answers; they wanted something deeper.
the form of anxiety or depression. Anxiety and depression can be accompanied by physical symptoms, too. When we stop to listen to our deeper wisdom, we find direction, peace – even meaning.
Most of the time, they didn’t consciously realize that they wanted something more, but would ask, “Why is this [symptom/condition] happening to me?”
Conventional medicine seeks to treat physical symptoms, and this can bring needed relief, while holistic and integrative medicines tend to substitute more natural remedies for treating disease and symptoms.
As I learned to listen to them, it became clear that I could bring about a greater level of well-being and health to patients by connecting them to their vitality and helping them listen to themselves. I discovered the “why” and gleaned from asking the question, a level of meaning that they hadn’t known before. I have had the privilege of treating and supporting thousands of patients as they have journeyed through health issues – from PMS to Stage IV cancer – and have witnessed them coming to a place of optimal health. These patients have taught me that tapping into our innate vitality is the key component to true health. Health is much more than the absence of physical disease. We know this instinctively and intuitively. Our physical bodies are perfectly designed to function optimally, even when challenged, but – under enough chronic duress – the body will eventually break down. It’s imperative to listen to the body. The body gives us messages in the form of symptoms. Sometimes the distress is emotional or mental, resulting in unhealthy thought patterns, which can be presented in
There is value in bringing relief to physical symptoms, but without getting the deeper cause of dysfunction, true health is unattainable. We tend to consider an illness or symptoms as inconvenient or a nuisance, and we try to get “back to normal” as quickly as possible. What if, instead, we stopped and considered pain as a critical interruption, and used it as an opportunity to listen to what our deeper self has in store for us. In this way, we can begin to mold life into a healthier, more authentic space. We can finally experience true health.
Board-certified Physician Marilyn Mitchell, M.D. is the founder of HealingSpace Medical Center, an organization promoting and encouraging an integrative approach to medicine.
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2016 | 51
10 festivals worth traveling for By ELIZABETH HARMON
A close to home weekend festival is a sure-fire recipe for fun. But why stop at the 50-mile mark? Just because summer is winding down doesn’t mean that festival season is, too. In fact, some of the nation’s best festivals are still to come! Whether it’s live music, art, food, film, family fun or all of the above, mark your calendar, book a flight and pack your bags. Here is a rundown of upcoming events worth traveling for:
August Burning Man Black Rock City, Nevada Aug. 28-Sept. 5 burningman.org Burning Man attracts more than 50,000 people each year to a temporary utopia erected in the desert, about 100 miles from Reno. This free-flowing, do-it-yourself, grown-up playground is based on 10 core principals, shuns corporate sponsorships and offers everything from art and tribal dance workshops to naked bicycling and New Yorkstyle pizza. Don’t look for Black Rock City on a map, it only exists through the life of the festival, and attendees aren’t passive observers, but active participants who create the community. The festival’s highlight is the burning of a 50-foot wooden man, and – in honor of this year’s Italian Renaissance theme – the 2016 Burning Man is Turning Man, a nod to DaVinci’s famous drawing.
September
Music City Food and Wine Festival Nashville, Tennessee Sept. 17-18 musiccityfoodandwinefestival.com
Bumbershoot Seattle, Washington Sept. 2-4 bumbershoot.com The name comes from an oldfashioned term for an umbrella, and it’s a good description for this three-day celebration that covers all things creative. There’s live music – this year’s line-up includes Death Cab for Cutie, Billy Idol and many more – live theater, stand-up and improv comedy, panels on literature and pop culture, kids events, art, food and a market featuring crafts, housewares, clothing and jewelry crafted by local artisans.
A weekend showcase for artisanal food, wine, beer and spirits, with demonstrations, tastings, chef meet-and-greets, a barbecue, cookbook signing and – of course – live music. This year’s musical highlights include a performance by special guests Kings of Leon and a Sunday gospel brunch.
Telluride Film Festival Telluride, Colorado Sept. 2-5 telluridefilmfestival.com
Celebrating its 50th anniversary this year, the Columbus Oktoberfest offers more than just beer. There are traditional German games, such as the 75-pound stone toss, a 4-mile Brat Trot, kids activities, live music, dancing, an art and craft marketplace, and food all set in the charming surroundings of three century-old buildings.
Nine-thousand feet up in the Rocky Mountains, film enthusiasts and celebrities rub elbows and watch movies. More intimate and less glitzy than Sundance or Cannes, and located in a beautiful setting, Telluride doesn’t announce its full line-up until just before the festival opens. Festival attendees have included Meryl Streep, Kate Winslet, Seth Rogan and Rooney Mara, numerous critics, directors and screenwriters. Past Telluride premiers have included “Juno,” “Capote” and “Slumdog Millionaire.” Epcot International Food and Wine Festival Walt Disney World, Orlando, Florida Sept. 14-Nov. 14 disneyworld.disney.go.com/eventstours/epcot/epcot-internationalfood-and-wine-festival
Columbus Oktoberfest Columbus, Ohio Sept. 23-25 columbusoktoberfest.com
Austin City Limits Austin, Texas Sept. 30-Oct. 2 and Oct. 7-9 aclfestival.com Austin is proud to be one of the nation’s premier destinations for live music, and this festival is one of the reasons why. Originally held on a single weekend, the festival now takes place over two weekends to accommodate the crowds. This year’s headliners include Radiohead, Mumford & Sons, LCD Soundsystem, Willie Nelson and more. With more than 130 bands on eight stages, there’s something for everyone. And, with the same acts appearing both weekends, you won’t have to miss your favorite.
and 750 hot air balloons, including a number of interesting shapes – elephants, Angry Birds, space aliens and clowns. Visitors can talk with balloonists, see the balloons up close, and even take a ride in one – though flight reservations go quickly. Earth-bound attractions include a car show, chainsaw carving, fireworks, watching balloon races, mass ascensions and glows, which are lighted flights in the early morning and evening. Village Halloween Parade New York City, New York Oct. 31 halloween-nyc.com New York City’s most famous parade doesn’t kick off until Thanksgiving, but this wild Halloween celebration is one of the nation’s largest public participation events. During the event, nearly 50,000 costumed participants parade through Manhattan, past two million spectators. Ghouls, witches, Ghostbusters, Go-Gos and Elvis can usually be spotted in the parade. Along the streets are volunteer puppeteers, musicians, dancers, performing artists and more. Want to do more than watch? Bring a costume and join in the fun.
December Christmas Lighting Festival Leavenworth, Washington Saturdays and Sundays, Dec. 2-18, and Dec 17 (Lantern Parade) leavenworthchristmaslighting.com
The Cascade Mountain community of Leavenworth is known for its Bavarian architecture and becomes especially festive in December. The town goes dark on Friday nights, but that doesn’t stop the Saturday With kids back in school, it’s time fun, which includes food, visits from for adults to frolic in the “Happiest Santa, caroling, a living Nativity Place on Earth.” The Epcot festival scene, sledding, sleigh rides and showcases global cuisines and October a Christmas market. At dusk on beverages, live music and more. Albuquerque International Saturdays, attendees gather to Enjoy chef demonstrations, Balloon Fiesta sing “Silent Night,” just before the tastings, seminars on cheese, wines Albuquerque, New Mexico town comes alive with thousands of and cocktails, and a plated brunch Oct. 1-9 twinkling lights. The Lantern Parade prepared by visiting celebrity chefs. balloonfiesta.com welcomes families to create their Between meals, the Magic Kingdom own lanterns at morning workshops As one of the world’s premier awaits. and join in the procession to the ballooning events, this festival draws more than 30,000 spectators town church.
52 | AUGUST 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
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OUT & ABOUT
321 Stevens Street, Suite R Geneva, IL 60134 630-232-9097 www.kdminvest.com KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2016 | 53
Before the Bell
ST. CHARLES PARK DISTRICT RINGS IN NEW MORNING CARE PROGRAM with CAROL HAGGAS
W
hen mom and dad have to hit the road for work before their children have to hit the books, there are few options available to parents for safe, supervised – yet entertaining – early morning care. Recognizing that a gap in school-day care coverage is a vexing challenge for parents, the St. Charles Park District has developed a new program designed to fill in this before-school blank, called Before the Bell. Before the Bell – an extension of the park district’s Baker Station after-school program – will begin in the fall. Designed for students in kindergarten through fifth grade, Before the Bell will offer morning care that allows children to ease into their day with breakfast foods and quiet activities. Parents who sign up for the Before the Bell program can drop off their students at Pottawatomie Community Center as early as 6:30 a.m. Breakfast foods will be served from 6:45 a.m. to 7:15 a.m., and children can play games, read or review their homework, and socialize with other students. Transportation, provided by Spare Wheels Transportation, will then deliver students to their designated elementary school before the start of their classes. The Before the Bell morning care program is offered to students attending the following elementary schools: Anderson, Bell Graham, Ferson Creek, Fox Ridge, Lincoln, Munhall, Richmond, Wasco and
Wild Rose. The cost of the Mondaythrough-Friday program is $225 per month. “We have had tremendous community interest and support for this kind of service, so we are extremely excited to be able to offer it this fall,” says Cheryl Riley, tween and family program supervisor of Baker Station. Both Before the Bell and Baker Station programs operate under the supervision of park district staff leaders and instructors. Students can participate in structured activities, such as arts-and-crafts and games, or choose to work on their own on school projects and homework. Both programs provide appropriate refreshments that follow the healthy choice guidelines established in accordance with Cadence Health’s CATCH program, which teaches children and families how to eat well and combat childhood obesity. The fall academic year also marks the first time the park district will offer parents the ability to register their child for tutoring sessions during the Baker Station afterschool program. Parents can arrange for these sessions through the park district’s online registration process for Baker Station. The cost for a 4-week tutoring session is $150.
u For more information about the new Before the Bell morning care service and existing Baker Station after-school program, contact Baker Station coordinator Ursula Bulgarelli at 630-513-4383 or visit the park district’s website at www. stcparks.org. 54 | AUGUST 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
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KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2016 | 55
Artist SHOWCASE DAVE WENSEL | GENEVA PHOTOGRAPHY “Lochan – Glen Coe, Scotland”
56 | AUGUST 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
When traveling, Geneva resident David Wensel will often leave gaps in an otherwise tight itinerary to meander.
Wensel says he spent the entire day shooting in a renowned area of Glen Coe, but didn’t realize it until after the fact.
While meandering through Scotland during a backpacking trip two years ago, Wensel came across Little Loch in Glen Coe (pictured). The photographer says he can’t remember the precise location, but he ended up in the right place at the right time.
“Had I done a little more homework beforehand, I would have known that I was making my way down Glen Etive, alongside the River Etive, which commands cult status among kayakers for its class 4/5 rapids at high water. Turns out the glen served as location for scenes in ‘Skyfall,’ as well.”
“When I came out of a long curve over a high saddle, I was positioned above the little loch caught in this photograph,” he says. “The rain had stopped but threatened to return at any time. Such moments are fleeting and rare except for those privileged to live in such wild and wonderful places.” OUT & ABOUT
Wensel works as a litigation consultant with Charles River Associates in Chicago, but he says that he “lives to make photographs.” “I shoot when a place or a thing or an occasion requires it of me, and I find I’ll frame shots even when www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
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I am without my camera,” he says. “For me, seeing differently is the start; capturing the result in an impactful photograph is the goal.” To view more of Wensel’s work, visit davidwensel.com.
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.” www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
Photo: Paolo Cascio
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KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | AUGUST 2016 | 57
CALENDAR
AUGUST 2016
THE GREAT ANNUAL ROVER RESCUE GARAGE SALE WHEN: 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 5-6 WHERE: 326 Sharon Lane | North Aurora
The annual Rover Rescue Garage Sale will provide an opportunity for shopaholics and bargain hunters to indulge to their hearts’ content. Rover Rescue, a nonprofit, all-volunteer group, hosts the fundraiser to provide medical treatment and care for homeless dogs and puppies rescued from high-kill shelters. All of the merchandise is donated. For more information, call 630-897-7454.
RIVERFEST EXPRESS
ELBURN DAYS
WHEN: Aug. 11-14 WHERE: Panton Mill Park
WHEN: Aug. 19-21 WHERE: Elburn Lions Community Park
10 N. Water St. | South Elgin
500 S. Filmore St. | Elburn
Fireworks will open and close the festival on Thursday night and Sunday night at 9:30 p.m. The festival also will feature live music, a BMX show, a carnival, a 2Fun 2Run 5K, a car show, craft show and small business expo. Admission is free. For more information, visit riverfestexpress.net.
A longtime traditional fundraiser event that supports the Elburn Lions charities. The event will feature a parade, carnival, craft shows, festival food, a truck and tractor pull, mud volleyball, a beer garden, an auction, live music, a livestock show, raffles, bingo and much more. For more information, visit elburnlions. com.
NORTH AURORA DAYS
BUBBA BLACKWELL MOTORCYCLE STUNT & JUMP SHOW
WHEN: Aug. 5-7 WHERE: Clock Tower Plaza
WHEN: Aug. 20 WHERE: Fox River Harley-Davidson
900 Oak St. | North Aurora
131 S. Randall Road | St. Charles
The annual festival will feature live music entertainment, a beer and wine tent, the Run for the Riverfront 5K/10K races, carnival rides, video gaming, a fishing derby, pet parade, fireworks, touch-a-truck, and a car, truck and bike show. For more information, visit northauroradays. com.
ALAN JACKSON WITH LAUREN ALAINA WHEN: 7:30 p.m. Aug. 6 WHERE: RiverEdge Park
360 N. Broadway St. | Aurora Alan Jackson is a respected singer-songwriter in music. He is in the elite company of Paul McCartney and John Lennon among songwriters who’ve written more than 20 songs that they’ve recorded and taken to the top of the charts. Jackson and Lauren Alaina will take the stage at RiverEdge Park. Tickets cost $55. For more information, visit riveredgeaurora.com.
p GREEN FAIR ON THE FOX WHEN: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Aug. 13 WHERE: Batavia Riverwalk
100 N. Island Ave. | Batavia The Green Fair on the Fox will feature a number of eco-villages focused on clean living, alternative transportation and energy reduction options for the home. The eco-marketplace will provide local and green options. Other event features will include live demonstrations, food, live music, fitness info and a bike swap. The event is free. For more information, visit www. greenfaironthefox.com.
American daredevil Bubba Blackwell will perform a stunt show during the Illinois State H.O.G. Rally. The open house event will also include The Hillbilly Rockstarz and Six Strong Crossing. Food truck vendors, such as Papa's Sweet Corn & More, will be on site. The stunt show will be followed by a Harley-Davidson XR750 Performance Motorcycle Jump and will end with a meet-and-greet autograph session. For more information, visit www.FoxRiverHD. com or call 630-584-8000.
t ELVIS AND ME: AN AFTERNOON WITH PRISCILLA PRESLEY WHEN: 4 p.m. Aug. 21 WHERE:
TOTO TO PERFORM AT ARCADA WHEN: 8 p.m. Aug. 13 WHERE: Arcada Theatre
Paramount Theatre 23 E. Galena Blvd. Aurora
105 E. Main St. | St. Charles Toto will perform hits like "Africa," "Hold the Line" and "Rosanna." For information, please visit the website or call 630.962.7000. Tickets start at $69. For tickets or more information, call 630-962-7000 or visit www.arcadalive.com.
Priscilla Presley, the original first lady of Rock ‘n’ Roll, has stories to share. Be captivated by Presley as she tells us about her teenage years, being romanced by Elvis, their marriage and life inside the gates of Graceland. Hear how she raised a daughter during the rise of the tabloids and how she coped with Elvis’ passing. Tickets start at $65. For tickets or more information, visit paramountaurora.com.
ALLEY ART FESTIVAL WHEN: Noon to 5 p.m. Aug. 27 WHERE: Water Street Mall in downtown Aurora
1880 Dean St. St. Charles, IL 60174 Phone 630-377-4LUX (4589) Fax 630-513-7983 58 | AUGUST 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
OUT & ABOUT
The one-of-a-kind grassroots art and music festival will feature 60 local artists who will be displaying there work. There will be food vendors and live music all afternoon in the park. Admission is free. For more information, visit www.downtownauroran.com/alley-art-festival.
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PETS-A-PALOOZA A CELEBRATION FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY!
By Anderson Animal Shelter Featured Sponsor DePaw University Canine Campus
Anderson Animal Shelter warmly invites you and your furry
the day to accommodate families’ weekend schedules and
friends to join us for some fun & merriment at our second
encourage participation of their furry family members. For a
annual Pets-a-Palooza Festival on Sunday, September 18th at
small registration fee, join other families and meet new friends
Mooseheart Child City & School. Pets-a-Palooza is a family and
(furry & otherwise) as you walk the parade route together.
pet-friendly party that Anderson created to celebrate the love
Or create your own fundraising web page to support Pets-a-
for our furry friends.
Palooza, one of the shelter’s largest fundraisers which provides
A peek at the day’s events
critical funding for our life-
will show you that there
saving programs. It’s fast, easy
will be TONS to do all day
and fun!
long. There will be plenty of
firstgiving.com/44429/pets-a-
games and contests planned
palooza-2016 to get started!
as well as pet-themed and
Costumes are not required,
human-themed
but
goodies
all
Just go to www.
participants
and merchandise for sale.
encouraged to embrace the
Show off your favorite fur-
spirit of Pets-a-Palooza and
kid(s) in our parade, pick
strut their stuff! More information on the
up a few tips at one of our demonstrations and maybe even teach your pet a new trick!
festival, parade, sponsorship and vendor options can be sniffed
Then, seek out the perfect spot under a shady tree and take a
out on Anderson’s website at www.andersonanimalshelter.org
break – either pack a picnic or enjoy the treats that will be for
or contact the Development Department at (847) 697-2880 x25.
sale from our vendors and watch the fun un-furl. SM-CL0347598
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The pet parade will kick off at several different times during
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GROOMING
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EDUCATION