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KCM January 2016

Page 1

JANUARY 2016

LISA BERTKE

FINDS HER BALANCE PAGE 8

ALL CHOCOLATE KITCHEN

brings wine on board PAGE 28

PERSONALIZE YOUR FITNESS PLAN

WITH THE EXPERTS AT DELNOR HEALTH AND FITNESS | PAGE 10


JOIN US FOR OUR MOST ANTICIPATED EVENT OF THE YEAR!

ANNUAL SUPER SUNDAY EVENT Sunday, February 7 11:00am-4:00pm Tailgating begins at 11:00am

10%-60% off all jewelry on display!*

REFRESHMENTS 覺 PRIZES 覺 GRAB BAGS


A New Year New Remodeling Projects What’s on your list? Three Season Room Update Bathrooms Windows & Doors Curb Appeal/Siding & Trim Kitchen Remodel Room Addition

DESIGN BUILD REMODELING for your home

IT’S TIME TO GET STARTED! A Quick Phone Call or Email is all it takes; we’ll set a time to meet with you yo to talk about your 2016 projects!

630-584-2255

Email us at: McD McDowellinc@sbcglobal.net

Or stop in our office at: 521 West Main Street St. Charles

To see a complete list of our remodeling services, view examples of our work and meet our team, please visit RemodelwithMcDowell.com


INSIDE 28 PRIMO

PROMISES

Wine and food pair with flair at the newest extension of Geneva’s All Chocolate Kitchen. PLUS – find your wine at great local wine bars

HEALTH AND WELLNESS 8 JUST BREATHE Prana Yoga’s Lisa Bertke shares her journey from stressed out sales executive to the state of peace she found through yoga.

DINING AND ENTERTAINING

10 FITNESS FOCUS

28 PRIMO PROMISES

Northwestern Medicine Delnor Health & Fitness Center personalizes exercise regimes

14 NEW YEAR’S DETOX Clear yourself of harmful toxins and start 2016 refreshed and ready for anything! Marilyn Mitchell of Healing Space shows you how.

16 VEIN PAIN? Don’t just cover up your varicose or spider veins...treat your condition, and all its symptoms, with the assistance of a Med-Pro professional.

18 BEAT THE WINTER BLUES

Wine and food pair with flair at the newest extension of Geneva’s All Chocolate Kitchen. PLUS – find your wine at great local wine bars

BUSINESS AND CIVIC 31 FORCE OF LOVE AND LIGHT Woman of Distinction Danae Sibert works to brighten the path for women and children.

FASHION AND BEAUTY 34 COLD COMFORT Cool winter wear to keep you warm and looking great!

outdoors in Kane County!

OUT & ABOUT

20 STRESSED OUT?

36 HIT THE SLOPES

Experts offer tips to soothe yourself into better health.

22 PAMPER YOURSELF Take advantage of the different healing and restorative treatment spas that the area has to offer.

HOME AND LIFESTYLE 24 GARDENING WITH CHILDREN Megan Provencher of Wasco Nursery shares her experience with this group of inquisitive gardeners

Sled, tube, ski and more without heading out of town, at great suburban spots for winter sports.

40 CALENDAR OF EVENTS Check out a variety of local events, courtesy of our own Planit Kane website!

42 ADVENTURE LITERACY 10 non-fiction books to get your adrenaline pumping, even when you’re nestled in your coziest chair

26 THE GREAT ESCAPE Protect your home against loss of heat and power with tips from Tom Wangler of Confident Aire.

4 | | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

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EXPERIENCE the difference

We now offer Adult Day Care

It’s time to make your winter reservations

Where our residents are respected, valued and nurtured by our senior care specialists. • Residential Townhomes • Assisted Living • Memory Loss Care • Respite and Short Term Stay • Adult Daycare Delnor Glen — where our experience is the difference. For more information or to schedule a tour call 630-443-8220 (TTY #630-933-4833) or visit delnorglen.com Delnor Glen Senior Living a part of Northwestern Medicine

975 North Fifth Avenue, St. Charles, IL

EQUAL HOUSING

OPPORTUNITY

“When we moved (our Mother) to Delnor Glen she was quite frail. That she thrived in the atmosphere you have created for all of the residents is surely an understatement… There is no doubt in our minds that the atmosphere you provided had a lot to do with her longevity. Not only do you provide your residents with beautiful physical surroundings, but the level of care and the empathy of the staff shown to the resident is unparalleled.” -family of Alice


Editor's Note In January, gym memberships spike, fitness classes are filled to capacity and the microwavable dinners in your fridge are replaced by kale and quinoa. But living a healthy lifestyle isn’t just about diet and exercise; it’s about finding a balance between body, mind and spirit. So much of our happiness is tied to our health, so – this month – we’ve honed in on topics related to health and wellness. Cover girl Lisa Bertke, owner of Prana Yoga Center in Geneva, talks about how she found balance in her own life after quitting her job as a high-powered executive to become a modern-day yogi.

To alleviate a little stress, find out where to get the hottest winter fashions for your next retail-therapy excursion; or, if rejuvenation is what you’re after, check out our story on winter spa escapes. For foodies and wine connoisseurs alike, we’ve got the latest on All Chocolate Kitchen’s new wine lounge – Primo –as well as a few extra favorite spots to stop for a glass of wine in the Tri-Cities. Cheers to your health and happiness in 2016! Kara Silva, Editor

Find out where to hit the slopes this winter season with our list of ski and snowboarding hot spots or stave off cabin fever while simultaneously stimulating the mind with our editor’s choice list of adventure books to get your adrenaline pumping.

Published by Shaw Media 333 N. Randall Road, Suite 2 St. Charles, IL 60174 Phone: 630-845-5288 www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

GENERAL MANAGER Laura Burke 630-427-6213 lburke@shawmedia.com DIRECTOR OF NICHE REVENUE Sherri Dauskurdas 630-427-6263 sdauskurdas@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 Yvonne Benson, Tammy Swanson, Melissa Riske, Kelsey O'Connor, Stephanie Kohl-McCord, Allison Horne

on the

COVER

Lisa Bertke, owner of Prana Yoga Center in Geneva, found her passion, and her balance after a stressful sales career. She shares how this ancient practice changed her health, and her life. Page 8.

PHOTOGRAPHERS Ron McKinney

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

6 | | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

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L

isa Bertke was stressed out. After 15 years working in the corporate world, she found that her usual treadmill workout wasn’t cutting it anymore. She knew she needed to try something different. “I found that traditional stress relief tools like going to the gym were only depleting my energy,” Bertke says. So she took the money from a sales award at her publishing job and went on a yoga retreat in Mexico. It was there she discovered the benefits of yoga, on and off the mat.

JUST

BREATHE: Managing stress through yoga By KELSEY O’CONNOR

“It gave me something that nothing else ever had. It was the place that yoga takes you— into a completely calm, reduced state of stress and a still mind,” she says. “Stress is the root cause of so much illness. If you reduce your stress, you improve your health.” And stress relief wasn’t the only thing Bertke got from that trip. It also completely changed her career path. She began practicing yoga regularly and became a certified yoga teacher through the Moksha Yoga Center in Chicago. In 2000, three years after the retreat, she quit her job and opened her own studio, Prana Yoga Center. “I realized I was holding onto my job only for the money,” she says. “That’s what yoga will do for you, it will really help you start to see clearly.” Bertke also uses yoga as a way to reach out to those in need. During her teacher training, Bertke hosted free yoga classes for breast cancer survivors after watching a friend struggle to become comfortable with her body after a double mastectomy. The classes focused on restoration, healing and breathing, and were customized based on where each student was at in treatment. The classes went so well that Bertke contacted Delnor Hospital about integrating yoga into patients’ cancer recovery. Delnor started surveying Bertke’s students and the www.kcchronicle.com/magazine


The healthcare you deserve, The Innovative Medical Center that delivers The LaCava Center for Integrative Medicine uses an integrative approach, combining the best that both traditional & alternative medicine offers to meet your health needs.

Why the LaCava Center? Photos by Ron McKinney

topic ended up being the focus of her thesis. “The results were profound on how much better they felt about themselves: greater sense of well-being, reduced stress, and better sleep.” Research and results from these classes were later utilized to secure a grant that helped create the LivingWell Cancer Resource Center at Delnor Hospital. Today, giving back is still an important part of Prana. Bertke holds fundraisers to support local nonprofits, such as Anderson Animal Shelter, Lazarus House, and Northern Illinois Food Bank. The studio still offers complimentary classes for breast cancer survivors, along with 35 other classes a week with 14 different instructors in Geneva. Classes cater to a variety of experience levels; weekly drop-in classes are available, along with curriculums that focus on healing and restoration, strength and balance, and advanced enrichment. Bertke says the mission of the studio can be summed up by its slogan: Traditional Wisdom. Modern Life. “It’s traditional wisdom, but it’s more applicable today because of the stress and how disconnected we are from nature,” she says. “Yoga is really about the mind. The physical poses are just a gateway to the mind. You change your life through clarity of thought and true motivation to become your best self.” www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

• Voted 2015 Top 100 Doctors for Excellence in Holistic Medicine by the Holistic Doctors Recognition Board • Over 40 years experience, both as a surgeon & Integrative Medical practitioner • Personal commendation by the Governor of South Carolina for medical excellence • Northwestern University Medical School Graduate • Prior Advisory Board member to the Northwestern University Medical School’s Integrative Medical Department • Extensive network of leading integrative practitioners throughout the world • Founding Member of the International Organization of Integrative Cancer Physicians • Technologically savvy: track your progress, view labs, make appointments, and more using our patient portal • Customized payment plans available

Treatments Offered: • Insulin Potentiation Therapy • Nutritional Vitamin IV’s/ Meyer’s Cocktail • Hyperbaric Oxygen • Hormone Replacement • Homeopathy • Chelation Therapy • Extensive Supplement Line • Far Infrared Sauna • Ozone Therapy • Dietary Counseling

*Current special packages for depression, cold & flu, and athletes-in-training. Mention this ad and receive 10% off your first visit.

305 N. Second St., St. Charles • 847-695-6262 info@integrativemed.com HEALTH & WELLNESS

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2016 | 9


FITNESS FOCUS Northwestern Medicine Delnor Health & Fitness Center personalizes exercise regimes

I

f your New Year’s resolution includes exercising and getting in shape, Northwestern Medicine Delnor Health & Fitness Center might have just what you are seeking. The Delnor Health & Fitness Center is a 60,000-square-feet state-of-the-art medically integrated fitness center provides numerous options for all ages and fitness levels. As the only certified Medical Fitness Association (MFA) facility in the area, Delnor Health & Fitness Center has undergone a thorough review to ensure that the facility provides quality, safe programs and services that are designed to promote health and wellness, while minimizing the risk of disease and injury. MFA certification is recognized as a mark of excellence in the health and wellness industry so even the most novice of group exercise classes, one-on-one and small members can feel confident and secure as they group personal training sessions, massage embark on their fitness routines. therapy, swim instruction and clinics, and To help you get off to the right start, a nutritional counseling. While you’re working membership at Delnor Health & Fitness out, the facility’s Fit N’ Fun childcare program Center begins with a comprehensive fitness provides a safe, supervised environment for assessment. Based on results of the assessment, children ages 6 weeks to 12 years. the degreed and certified team works with you Whether your goal is to lose weight, build to develop a personalized exercise plan and muscle or improve your overall fitness level, then provides you with a complete orientation the center’s personal training program can help to the center. The facility offers a variety of cardiovascular and strength-training equipment, you achieve results quickly and safely. Personal training is an effective way to take your exercise an indoor walking/jogging track, spacious routine to the next level while providing the workout areas and fitness studios, a 25-meter lap pool, and a warm water therapy pool, as well motivation, encouragement and accountability as full-service locker rooms with complimentary you need to get you there. All Delnor Health & Fitness Center trainers are certified through towel service, showers, whirlpools, saunas and either the American College of Sports Medicine steam rooms. (ACSM), the National Strength and Conditioning Delnor Health & Fitness Center also offers Association (NSCA), National Academy of Sports a variety of fitness programs and services, Medicine (NASM) or the American Council on including a large selection of aquatics and land 10 | | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

HEALTH & WELLNESS

Exercise (ACE). Personal training is available to members and non-members, and is conducted through appointments that fit your schedule. “People of all ages can benefit from a personal trainer,” says Joe Molter, fitness manager at Delnor Health & Fitness Center. “From learning proper exercise technique and increasing your confidence, to helping you stay committed to fitness, there are many advantages to personal training.” Personal trainers also can recommend exercises designed to address any health barriers that might interfere with your ability to succeed. “Mental and physical obstacles can get in the way of achieving your goals,” Molter says. “By developing a plan that suits your specific interests and needs, a personal trainer can assist you in eliminating these barriers.”

-Continued on page 12 www.kcchronicle.com/magazine


“People of all ages can benefit from a personal trainer. From learning the proper exercise technique, to increasing your confidence, to helping you stay committed to fitness, there are many advantages to personal training.” - Joe Molter, fitness manager at the Delnor Health and Fitness Center

-Continued from page 10 Delnor Health & Fitness Center offers a variety of group fitness classes designed for both fitness enthusiasts and novice participants alike. Each class is taught by a certified instructor, trained to provide a safe, effective and motivating class. Participants of any age or skill level can feel comfortable jumping right into any of the 150 land and aquatic classes, which include yoga, Pilates, cycling, Group Power, Zumba, healthy joints, arthritis therapy pool aquatics and kickboxing. The facility also now offers a series of medically-based fitness programs. Next Steps is an eight-week fitness program designed for individuals transitioning from or managing a medical condition, as well as for those who simply needing additional support. The classes are open to the community and provide specific support for the following: • • • • • •

Cancer Fitness Cardiac Fitness Diabetes Fitness Functional Fitness Orthopaedic Fitness Pre-Hab Fitness

• Pulmonary Fitness • Transitional Care • Weight Management Each Next Step course includes health assessments at the beginning and end of the program, a personalized exercise regimen, two 60-minute supervised group workout sessions per week, a program summary report provided to you and your physician, unlimited full access to the facility and all its amenities, and transition to full membership, including a waived enrollment fee at the end of eight weeks. Delnor Health & Fitness Center offers membership options for individuals, couples, families and seniors, which can be tailored to meet your needs. Memberships are all-inclusive with no hidden fees or long-term contracts. Delnor Health & Fitness Center, located at 296 Randall Road, Geneva, is dedicated to helping adults of all ages improve their fitness, health and quality of life. For more information about the center, its services and membership options, call 630.938.9100 or visit www. delnorhfc.com.

Photos provided

12 | | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

HEALTH & WELLNESS

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NEW YEAR’S DETOX With MARILYN MITCHELL, M.D.

This is the time of year when we start fresh, putting our homes and our lives back in order, and committing to our health and fitness after a season of indulgence and celebrating. We welcome the new year as an opportunity to reboot. At this time, one of the most profound and effective things we can do for ourselves is a healthy detox.

EXTERNAL TOXIN SOURCES: • Pesticides • Herbicides • Pollution • Environmental toxins • Acid rain • Heavy metals • Prescription, OTC, and recreational drugs • Alcohol • Cigarettes

14 | | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

Between our diets and the environment, our bodies are exposed to toxins on a daily basis. Toxins not only disrupt many of our healthy bodily functions and prevent vital nutrients from being absorbed by our bodies, but they can also dramatically affect our quality of life. Toxic buildup can lead to digestive dysfunction, weight gain, mood disorders, sleep issues, sexual problems, skin issues and aches and pains. Our bodies are designed to remove toxins on their own, but when they become overloaded, they can no longer function properly. This is where detoxification can help.

INTERNAL TOXIN SOURCES:

Detoxification involves neutralizing and eliminating dangerous substances from our bodies, to restore vitality and improve overall health. This process works on a cellular level to promote natural functioning of the body’s healing and defense systems.

• Fat oxidation • Cholesterol oxidation • Diminished liver function • Diminished Kidney function • Free radicals

Everyone can benefit from a detox, but if weight loss is one of your goals, detoxing is a must. Here’s why: when we are overloaded with excess toxins, our bodies will hold on to extra fat and fluid to dilute those toxins. When we detox, we support the body to naturally give up fat and fluid, and our metabolism

HEALTH & WELLNESS

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

Marilyn Mitchell, M.D.

begins to run optimally again. Weight loss begins right away and there is no rebound. If you are ready to feel healthy, think more clearly, lose weight, sleep better, have clearer skin, and improve your mood, start planning your detox today. Some detox programs are unsuccessful or even unsafe, so make sure your plan is sound. It is possible to detox gently and effectively with ease. Choose a program that is gentle and works with the body, and one that offers guidance and support during the preparation stage, and through the entire process. Begin your New Year with a fresh start!

The physical body communicates what impacts a person on all levels. The body can compensate for many things, but it has its limits. Eventually when there is a disease or a disorder the physical symptoms are the signal that something deeper is occurring. Until we examine the mental, emotional, spiritual levels, even the soul’s longing, a permanent cure is less likely to occur. The medical model deals with the physical body. Integrative Medicine incorporates natural remedies. In my practice, I go further to address the underlying origins of dysfunction. When I’m with a patient, I use an intuitive listening process which provides a space for them to get in touch with their full, deeper self. From this place, we are able to recognize the patterns that are being mirrored in the physical body. The patient may be realizing this connection for the ďŹ rst time. This process allows me to design a treatment plan for the patient to achieve optimal health and wellbeing.

HealingSpace Medical Center âœĽ Integrated Medicine

âœĽ Nutritional Counseling

âœĽ Holistic Gynecology

âœĽ Therapeutic Massage

âœĽ Men & Women's Health Services âœĽ Integrated Cancer Care

âœĽ Manual Lymph Drainage

& Survivorship

âœĽ Breast Health/Thermography âœĽ Energy Medicine âœĽ Homeopathy

âœĽ Nutritional IV Therapy âœĽ Lab Services

âœĽ Educational Workshops âœĽ Insurance/Payment

Options Available

� �� � � ��� � �� � � � � �

Board-certified Physician Marilyn Mitchell, M.D. is the founder of HealingSpace Medical Center, an organization promoting and encouraging an integrative approach to medicine.

www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

âœĽ Permanent Weight Loss

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847.304.5526 www.healingspacellc.com HEALTH & WELLNESS

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2016 | 15


VEIN PAIN? DON’T JUST COVER IT UP. It happens to a lot of us. Spider veins show up on our thighs and calves as we age, or after pregnancy. Varicose veins become ugly, troublesome, and even painful. But its more than just a condition to “cover up.” Venous disease is a serious health concern. Kane County Magazine’s Sherri Dauskurdas took a few minutes to learn about the disease, and its treatments, from Dr. Michael Shao of MedPro Vein and Ultrasound Center in South Elgin. Q: What are the most common vascular conditions identified and treated?

Q: What are the services your professionals provide?

Q: What can a MedPro specialist provide, that ís different than another doctor?

Dr. Shao: Varicose veins are most common, caused by venous insufficiency, which is the failure of the veins to adequately circulate the blood.

Dr. Shao: At MedPro Vein and Ultrasound

Dr. Shao: All our services are provided by a board certified, vascular surgeon. We offer convenient office hours and testing times, and affordable payment options for self pay or high deductible patients.

Q: When does a vascular condition, like spider or varicose veins, become a concern to health, and not simply a cosmetic issue? Dr. Shao: Venous disease is a progressive disease. Visible veins in the leg (including spider veins) or any of below symptoms can be indication of necessary treatment. • achiness • pain • itching • heaviness • swelling • skin changes such as redness or browning of the skin • ulcers

Center, we offer • Radiofrequency, Laser or Clarivein procedures for the treatment of veins, which are lowinvasive procedures with minimal scarring. Additionally, they take less time and produce less pain and discomfort • Ultrasound guided foam sclerotherapy and injectable sclerotherapy, which are the more traditional medical procedures used to eliminate varicose veins and spider veins • Phlebectomy, a minimally invasive procedure that uses a small scalpel or needle to remove varicose veins on the surface of the leg • Vascular ultrasound a non-invasive and painless test that uses high-frequency sound waves to image arteries and veins

Q: Can people come right in, or do they need a referral? Dr. Shao: No referral is needed for patients with PPO insurances.

Medpro Vein and Ultrasound Center is dedicated healthcare facility where services are provided by licensed vascular surgeon and registered vascular technicians specializing in the treatment of the venous circulatory system. Our providers have over 25 years of experience with thousands of successful procedures completed. 95 percent of all procedures performed in our office are covered by insurance to include Medicare. Dr. Michael Shao is a board certified vascular surgeon with clinical interest in Venous Disease, Wound Care and Limb Salvage. Dr. Shao completed both residency and fellowship training at University of Chicago Medical Center.

u MedPro Vein and Ultrasound Center is open at 472 Briargate Drive, South Elgin. Visit online at medpromobile.com or call 630-797-0895. 16 | | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

HEALTH & WELLNESS

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How much do you know about varicose veins?

Always thought varicose veins and spider veins were the same thing? Never knew there are treatments that are covered by many insurance plans? You’re not alone. While your varicose veins may tell a story about your life, they don’t have to be your life’s story. We proudly offer the Venefit™ procedure, a clinically proven treatment for the underlying cause of you varicose veins.

Call to schedule your appointment for a FREE Screening Medpro Vein Center 472 Briargate Dr. • South Elgin, IL

630-425-0088

www.medproveins.com • veins@medpromobile.com www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

HEALTH & WELLNESS

COVIDIEN, COVIDIEN with logo are U.S. and/or internationally registered trademarks of Covidien AG. ©2010 Covidien. All rights reserved.

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2016 | 17


BEAT THE WINTER BLUES,

outdoors in Kane County By ALLISON HORNE

Ditch the TV remote and bundle up, because this winter, Kane County has some thrilling outdoor events that will get you out of your seat. From cross-country skiing and snowboarding to ice fishing, there’s no shortage of outdoor activities for the entire family. OUTDOOR EXERCISE

the Hampshire South Forest Preserve, Lake Patterson at the Oakhurst Forest Forget the gym this winter, because Preserve, and two ponds at the Paul Wolff there are so many other exercise options available outdoors throughout Kane County. Campground. One of the easiest ways to get some exercise while enjoying the outdoors is snowshoeing and cross country skiing, which burn around 500 calories per hour. Both are readily available at all of the Kane County forest preserves, which provide groomed trails for both activities.

Snowmobiling is another family favorite in the winter, and there are several locations that permit it, including the Campton Forest Preserve, Great Western Trail and the Hampshire Forest Preserve.

Ice skating might not be the most obvious workout, but it does burn more than 400 calories per hour, and it is available at the Oakhurst Forest Preserve.

For a more adventurous workout, the Raging Buffalo Snowboard Ski Park in Algonquin, is a great place to get some fresh air as well as exercise disguised as fun. On average, snowboarding and skiing burn around 350 calories per hour.

Find more information and exact locations at www.kaneforest.com

Sledding is a yearly favorite throughout Kane County, and some of the best hills can be found at the Campton, Fabyan, Johnson’s The 150-foot hill has a main hill with a Mound and Oakhurst Forest Preserves. rope tow, the kids hill has a magic carpet tow, and there is a half-pipe, rail and “Kane County is a great place for winter jumps for the more adventurous skiers and activities because we have something snowboarders. for everyone at several of our preserves,” says Brittany Kovach, Community Affairs Specialist for the Forest Preserve District of Kane County. Ice fishing is another way to have some fun outdoors, and it is permitted at

18 | | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

HEALTH & WELLNESS

“It’s definitely a good workout,” owner Keith Duck says. “Anything you can do in the winter to get off the couch and the computer is great.”

www.kcchronicle.com/magazine


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In addition to daily events, there are other special events taking place throughout Kane County all winter long.

Huntley 815.756.9491

Raging Buffalo is participating in the World’s Largest Skiing and Snowboarding lesson, which takes place on Friday, Jan. 8 at 10 a.m. Kids also interested in competitive skiing and snowboarding can participate in the USA Snowboard and Freeski Association’s competitions throughout January.

Dr. Gregory C. Bryniczka*

Dr. Richard R. Leitzen

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“It’s a great way for kids to see if it’s something they’re going to like,” Duck says. “They just get a taste of it. We started it last year and we’ve seen great results.”

• Warts • Fractures • Diabetic Foot Care • Sports Medicine • Hammertoes

• Fungus Toenails • Ingrown Toenails • Orthotics • Foot & Ankle Surgery

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Raging Buffalo added a kids program on the weekends last year, and they have been extremely popular and have continued to grow. The classes include a half-day lift ticket, lessons, and rental equipment.

Wheaton 630.668.8277

A NEW YEAR, A NEW YOU. • One-On-One Personal Training

In addition to daily self-guided hikes, Kovach recommends specialty hikes throughout Kane County, including the Winter Wildlife Hike and Winter Tree Identification. Seniors are also invited to participate in the Senior Stroll, which is a monthly leisurely stroll through a different forest preserve each month. The forest preserves are also open to the public for hikes at any time.

• Private studio with the focus on you • Certified personal trainers with over 30 years experience • Clients ranging from 10–90 years old • Customized programs based on your fitness levels and goals

“All of the winter hikes we offer are a great way to get out and about this winter,” Kovach says.

• FREE, No Obligation, Consultation • No hard sell, no gimmicks!

For those interested in learning more about snowmobiling, the KC Forest Preserve is offering a snowmobile safety class on January 9.

FREE First Session!

630-402-0359

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“People should get outdoors because it has proven to boost your mood and self-esteem,” Kovach says. “Being outside in nature, no matter what time of year, is a beautiful thing.”

Dr. Adam W. Bryniczka*

Niles 847.823.5510

genevapersonaltraining@gmail.com www.genevapersonaltraining.com

1797 W. State St., Suite B, Geneva

LIVE HEALTHY. LIVE HAPPY. LIVE LIFE. www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

HEALTH & WELLNESS

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2016 | 19


STRESSED OUT?

Experts offer tips to soothe yourself into better health By YVONNE BENSON

S

tress is what wells up inside to make people react. Your mother-in-law just announced a surprise visit so you rush to get your place ready. Your boss is cranky and your project is due. Brian Rooney, Ph.D. from Prairie Counseling and Psychotherapy Services in Batavia explains, “Our brain and nervous system is wired for that. It can lead to productivity, enjoyment. It can be good. “Our bodies are built to handle stress,” Rooney continues. “You want your body to be able to accelerate sometimes so that it can catch up with the flow of traffic but you don’t want to be pedal-to-the-floor all the time. Chronic and cumulative is where stress gets a bad name.” Brett Curtiss is a licensed dietitian at Portrait Health Centers Aurora. “People that experience chronic stress can be exposed to its harmful effects related to anxiety or depression, insomnia, high blood pressure, or extended or more frequent cold or flu symptoms,” Curtiss says. In practical terms, you don’t feel well. “You might notice your muscles being tight, being distracted, differences in your GI activity, or sleep might be disrupted,” Rooney says. “You might notice that your mouth is dry or your hands are cooler. Most people say that they ‘slept wrong’ because their neck and shoulders don’t feel right. Or maybe assume that they ate something that’s upsetting their stomachs. They assume that it’s a physical ailment first, and it might be, but it could also be a result of stress.” So how do you combat chronic stress? The first way is by making sure your body has everything it needs nutritionally. “A healthy diet is vital for managing stress,” Curtiss says. “A body deficient in nutrients it

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

www.kcchronicle.com/magazine


“Sugar tends to promote stress – especially if you’re stressed already.”

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- Brian Rooney, Ph.D. from Prairie Counseling and Psychotherapy Services in Batavia

needs and overloaded with added sugars impairs its ability to adapt to stressful situations.” Rooney agreed, citing a reduced sugar diet as a great stress reliever.

321 Stevens Street, Suite R Geneva, IL 60134 630-232-9097 www.kdminvest.com

“Sugar tends to promote stress – especially if you’re stressed already. If you eat a 70 percent dark chocolate that might help, but eating a Hostess cupcake or M&Ms might give you 10 minutes of emotional release but then you go back to being stressed. Your body gets aroused and enflamed again to process the sugar.” Other techniques for stress reduction come via breathing patterns “If I just had two minutes to help them with stress I would encourage them to learn and practice diaphragmatic (belly) breathing in a full, effortless way.” Rooney offers, “That breathing pattern signals our brain and nervous system that everything is okay and there’s no need to be on alert. The other things that go with physical or physiological are stretching and moving your body so that your muscles are freed up.” Rooney adds that 90 percent of our stress is self-inflicted. “There are some things that are significant and overwhelming. But most of it is how we think about what we’re getting.” he says, “It’s not about slapping smiley faces on everything. It’s about stopping the stress activities and positioning your thinking so that you’re in a better spot. You’re not thinking, ‘There won’t be traffic,’ instead, you’re accurately thinking, ‘There will be traffic, but I’ll make the best of it.’” www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

Sunday • January 17 • 1-3pm Vendors showcasing everything you need for a special and environmentally friendly event! • Coordination Services • ‘Green’ Wedding Display • Hair and Makeup • DJ • Flowers • Photography • Caterers • Vendor Giveaways • Rental Items: tables, chairs, linens, dance floor & more!

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In James O. Breen Community Park 3795 Campton Hills Road � St. Charles, Illinois 60174 stcnature.org • 630-513-4399 HEALTH & WELLNESS

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2016 | 21


PAMPER YOURSELF AT LOCAL SPAS By TAMMY SWANSON

T

he cold winter months wreck havoc on our skin. The lack of sunshine zaps our bodies of vital vitamins. Viral infections and colds can challenge our immune systems. All the business of the holidays leaves us anxious and stressed. Luckily, there is an easy way to overcome the ravages of the frigid weather. People can take advantage of the different healing and restorative treatments spas in the area offer. The Herrington Inn and Spa is a luxury hotel and spa located on the Fox River in downtown Geneva. All of the charm of this boutique spa awaits visitors.

treatments. The Herrington Delight exfoliates your skin with cornmeal and chamomile. After a rain shower, a heated lavender rub is used with the massage to reduces tension.

ten inches of water. Benefits include stress reduction, less hypertension, deeper levels of meditation, improvements in sleep and better immune functions.

“We are a luxury day spa, located within a four diamond hotel,” said Cassidy Burk, Spa Director of the Herrington Inn and Spa. “It’s more for taking your whole day and not just in and out for a treatment. It’s more of a relaxed, calming destination (where you) get away and pamper yourself versus going in and getting a quick massage,”

“Facials are always a good treatment because everyone’s face is getting dry,” she says. Body treatments exfoliate the dead skin off in the winters. Everything is dry so anything that has any moisturizing body cream is going to be beneficial in these dry, winter months,” Burk adds.

“Because there is so much salt, you end up buoyant, so you float just like the Dead Sea which is also known for a lot of healing properties,” said Leah Genski, owner of Salternative Spa.

The spa’s signature treatment is the Herrington Massage. Scented salts relax tired feet as you start the treatment. A full body massage follows using warm, milk-infused towels which loosen the muscles and moisturize the skin. The spa also features specialized facials and body 22 | | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

“Being completely weightless and floating like that allows you to take in greater oxygen so For information about the services, call 630-232- your oxygen circulation increase so your blood circulation increases. Muscle pain, aches and all 4252 or go to www.herringtoninn.com sorts of things start taking care of themselves. The Salternative Spa in Geneva focuses You feel a ton better.” on a holistic, wellness approach to the spa People can pull the pod closed and sensory experience. The spa offers many unique treatments such as the floatation tank. The deprivation begins. “It’s completely dark and silent so there’s no weight,” says Genski. “It’s tank has 900 pounds of salt dissolved in about HEALTH & WELLNESS

www.kcchronicle.com/magazine


almost like you are floating in space. That gives you a pretty deep meditative state – as good as four hours of REM sleep,” The spa offers infrared sauna therapy, which removes toxins from the body, relieves pain, improves skin and reduces stress. Also utilized are Chinese medicine procedures, Ayurvedic services and different massage techniques. For more information, please call 630-845-3333 or go to www. salternativespa.com. With over 200 different treatments to choose from, the Spa Vargas at Pheasant Run Resort in St. Charles is one not to miss. It was voted the # 1 spa by the Chicago Tribune and the hotel is one of the largest resorts in the Midwest. Escape the winter cold and experience one of the body therapies influenced from around the world such as the Mayan Stone treatment or Barcelona Romance Couples’ Massages. The Moroccan Oil Massage uses a warm argan oil on your scalp and hair to exfoliate and relax. You might decide to try the Australian Therapeutic Massage or the Seoul Foot Ritual to revitalize. To see all the spa offers, call 630-584-6300 or go to www.pheasantrun.com. Find Tranquility Spa and Wellness Center in a charming stone house in downtown St. Charles. The spa has evolved from a skincare treatment focus into a holistic and natural healing center to meet all the needs of the body. Part of what separates this spa from others is the chiropractic and manipulative therapy available. A comprehensive analysis determines the solution to the client’s problem. Techniques available include soft tissue work, Graston techniques, acupuncture and cupping. A holistic approach to health issues also makes this spa different. Natural medicine through diet and supplementation is available to all clients. This includes treatment of migraines, allergies, digestive issues, immune diseases and arthritis. The spa still expertly focuses on facials and skin care regiments. u For more information about the spa, please call 630-762-9864 or visit www.relaxattranquility.com.

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2016 | 23


Gardening with children By MEAGAN PROVENCHER, SR. LANDSCAPE DESIGNER, ICN

Children are naturally good gardeners. They look at everything with wide, nonjudgemental eyes. They love bright colors and different shapes. They love bugs, dirt, and mud, too! I look forward to spending time in the garden with my two boys (even the surly teenager appreciates a good home grown tomato…). The following are some things you can do with your kids to help cultivate a love for the garden and outdoors! ¾ Grow a vegetable garden. It doesn’t have to be huge – it can even be grown in pots! Start seeds indoors if you like or buy them pre-started at the garden center. Tomatoes, peas, beans, lettuce, and cucumbers are easy plants to grow, no matter what the size of space you have.

¾ Let kids shop with you at the garden center. There is much to look at, colors to see, flowers with unusual names (point out funny names like Lamb’s Ear, Bugbane, Pigsqueak, and Monkey Flower) and textures, smells, and sounds to explore. We are probably the only store that encourages children to touch the products, step in the puddles, and collect rocks!

¾ Dabble in perennial gardening. Even if you aren’t an avid gardener, perennials are easy to grow, come back every year, and require little care. When plant shopping, let your child choose a plant to take home and work together to find a spot for it. Tell them the characteristics, such as height, bloom time, and color and then search the garden for the perfect spot. They will always know where to look for their special plants and it is fun to watch them emerge and grow each spring.

¾ Head to the Morton Arboretum, the Chicago Botanic Gardens, Cantigny Gardens, or even the local forest preserves and parks to wander through the gardens. These are great places for kids to explore and there is no rush to see everything. The nice thing about visiting often is that something changes every day!

24 | | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

HOME & LIFESTYLE

¾ Build a butterfly garden. There are many plants that attract butterflies, hummingbirds, bees, and other neat bugs and critters. You only need a few plants and soon you’ll see some winged friends! It’s important that we provide habitats for bugs and critters – their numbers are dwindling due to construction, chemicals, and other environmental stressors.

www.kcchronicle.com/magazine


91 Years A Growing Legacy Everything you need for your beautiful garden

¾ This one’s a hard one for me since I’m a little obsessive about my garden, but….let the kids pick the flowers! Let the kids arrange the flowers in a vase or give them to a neighbor. Examine each flower closely (pretend you are bees!) and discuss what makes each flower different. Why do some flowers attract certain insects or birds? What colors are most popular in your garden? What flowers open up during the day and close at night? Are all flowers fragrant?

¾ Make a leaf collection. Walk through your yard or neighborhood and collect leaves. Try and identify them using books, photos, and the internet. If you get stumped, bring the leaf to the garden center for I.D. Gardening can be fun for both children and adults and it’s a great way to get outside away from the TV, computer, and video games. Seeing a garden through the eyes of a child is amazing and just like plants, children grow fast so enjoy it while you can!!

Meagan Provencher is the Sr. Landscape Designer for Wasco Nursery & Garden Center in St. Charles. She can be reached at 630584-4424 or design@ wasconursery.com. www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

Since 1925, Wasco Nursery has been known for its highquality, locally grown plant and landscape material, expert advice and professional installation and design services. Plan now to plant this spring. No home is complete without beautiful landscaping; our design and installation services will add beauty and value to your home. Choose from several landscape design options to determine the process that best fits your project.

A lot has changed in 91 years but our commitment to our customers and our community has not. Today Wasco Nursery & Garden Center is proud to have been selected as one of the top garden centers in the country by being named one of Today’s Garden Center Magazine’s Revolutionary 100 Garden Centers for 2015.

Meeting your growing needs since 1925 41W781 Route 64 | St. Charles | 630-584-4424 | wasconursery.com HOME & LIFESTYLE

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2016 | 25


THE GREAT ESCAPE

Protect your home against loss of heat and power With TOM WANGLER

G

lobal warming is a topic of great debate and grave concern. Regardless of where you stand on the issues, we all can agree that we do not want to spend money to generate heat and have it go right out our roof. Lowering utility bills is something we can all get behind! Every home we survey has small passages where air can enter and escape. This is not entirely bad, often times this fresh air is what saves us from ourselves, and from living in our own “indoor pollution”. Other times this leakage is excessive or the passageways contain insulation that gets into our breathing air. Plus, every bit of energy escaping the envelope of the home also means more CO2 is generated to replace that energy. Utility bills are expensive. No one likes

26 | | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

wasting that kind of money, especially during a cold Chicago winter and after the holidays. Unfortunately, that’s exactly what happens if you’re heating the outdoors every time you touch the thermostat. Air leaking out is replaced by new air that you have to heat all over again, but with a little bit of preventative action many dollars still can be saved this winter. For tips and more visit www. confidentaire.com/blog

A simple integrated back-up generator not only will ensure the most important things keep running automatically, but also will prove a great investment at resale time. Larger models even power the AC in the summer time. Wifi smoke and CO detectors, water filtration systems, and battery back up sump pumps are all valuable tools when it comes to being ready for anything.

If you plan to escape the cold and ice, a wifi Disaster preparedness also is a growing thermostat will allow you to set parameters concern in tough climates. When the power and enter email addresses so you can be goes out, and the snow is too deep to pass, notified of low temperatures, high humidity, you lose more than the Internet and lights – and smoke or CO detection while you are heat, sump pumps, alarm systems, garage away – before it is too late. For all of the door openers, refrigerators, and much more latest technology and professional installation can be lost. These are basic things we all contact your trusted heating and cooling depend on to keep comfortable and protected. professional!

HOME & LIFESTYLE

www.kcchronicle.com/magazine


INSPECT, CLEAN AND CHANGE FILTERS A dirty filter can increase your energy costs, and make your system run harder than it needs to. When you change the filters regularly, you’re extending the life of your furnace, and saving money on costly repair bills. KEEP YOUR THERMOSTAT CONSTANT Drastic changes in the thermostat can use excessive amounts of energy. However, lowering the temperature just a few degrees while you’re away during the day can result in 3-5 percent less energy used. That adds up to savings on your heating bill. WEATHERSTRIP AND CAULK YOUR WINDOWS AND DOORS A large amount of the air that you’re paying to heat can escape through gaps in your windows and doors. This means that you’ll be colder and paying more for your HVAC system to work harder. USE A PROGRAMMABLE THERMOSTAT A programmable thermostat can help you keep your home at a more regulated temperature, saving you money and making your home more energy efficient. It’s an investment up front, but one that will quickly pay for itself through savings on your utility bills. CONSULT AN HVAC SPECIALIST An HVAC specialist can tune up your heating system to make sure it’s running at peak efficiency through the winter months. This will save you money in the long run, through less wasted energy.

Tom Wangler Jr. is president and second generation heating and cooling specialist of Confident Aire located at 416 E. Wilson St., Batavia. For more information call 630-761-9007 or visit www.confidentaire.com www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

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KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2016 | 27


PRIMO promises WINE, FOOD PAIRINGS WITH OLD FASHIONED FLAIR By Stephanie Kohl-McCord Come January, area residents will have a new reason to flock to All Chocolate Kitchen in Geneva. World-renown Chef Alain Roby will open PRIMO (“first dish” in Italian) in the New Year. This will be All Chocolate Kitchen’s, 33 S. Third St., third expansion in three years, and will focus on wine. “To have a restaurant was always a dream,” Roby says.

“I just thought it would be so amazing to share this with people,” Roby says. Roby added that PRIMO is a nice complement to everything All Chocolate Kitchen already offered and everything is all under one roof. “You can come have an amazing dinner and amazing wine… it makes it really a wonderful experience flavor-wise, and also visually.”

Menu items at PRIMO will include a selection of domestic, French and Italian artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, crab avocado sliders, short ribs in a red wine sauce, seared lamb shank with Portobello mushrooms and green spiced lentils, crostini au fromage and Grandmother Louise’s eggplant confit. It also will feature a selection of local, French, German and Italian wines.

Roby says he had wine experts come in to try the food that PRIMO will offer. A suggested wine list was created from that visit. PRIMO will offer about 25 wines to go with its 10 menu items. It will also offer champagne. Menu items include dishes from Roby’s mother and grandmother, which had been family favorites.

It was the discovery of his grandmother’s recipes about a year ago, and the availability of an adjoining storefront that launched the new endeavor.

PRIMO will have seating for 25 to 30 people. All Chocolate Kitchen’s newest décor includes a 22-foot tall chocolate rig continuously pumping chocolate and a

It’s not really the quantity,” he says, “it’s going to be the quality.”

Other Wine Bars to consider THE WINE EXCHANGE 1 W. Illinois St., St. Charles (630) 513-5577 www.thewineexchange.net The Wine Exchange offers an extensive selection of wines and spirits. Filled with passionate wine lovers who take pride in knowing about wine and sharing their knowledge with customers. Offers weekly wine tastings every Friday and Saturday.

28 | | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

GENEVA WINE CELLARS AND TASTING ROOM 227 S. Third St., Geneva (630) 232-8888 www.genevawinecellars.com Retail wine store/wine bar featuring wine tastings every weekend and wines by the glass or bottle every day. Wines from France, United States, Italy, Germany, South America and more. Classes and other events also available.

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477 S. Third St., Geneva (630) 232-9463 www.galenacellars.com

477 S. Third St., Geneva (630) 377-8325 www.wildwoodsteak.com

Wine Tasting Room and Gift Shop featuring a beautiful oak bar in a light, airy setting. Live music and pizza on the patio in warmer months. Sit. Swirl. Sip & Savor.

Wildwood’s wine list sets itself apart because of the breadth of selections and a mix of wines from both well recognized and lesser known boutique vineyards. List includes 30 wines by the glass and over 300 wines by the bottle.

DINING & ENTERTAINING

www.kcchronicle.com/magazine


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large–scale lighted sugar art masterpiece. PRIMO will also have a lounge area, perfect for groups to drink wine and enjoy cheese and other offerings. “It’s going to be really a fun place to come experience,” Roby says. Service is important to Roby, so those working in PRIMO will be knowledgeable about both its menu items and wine offerings. Wine pairings will be suggested. With its newest addition, All Chocolate Kitchen will focus on wine, chocolate, dessert and food. Roby says both the food and “look” of PRIMO will be unique.

477 South Third, Suite 100, Geneva • 630-232-9463 Store Hours: Mon, Tues, Wed. 10am-6pm • Thurs, Fri, Sat. 10am-8pm • Sun. 10am-6pm

Guests can also look forward to wine pairings. Roby says he plans to offer wine pairings, putting his top truffles with a complementing wine to really highlight the flavors of both. “(This is) a life dream come true and we want to be sharing our passion for wine and food with customers,” Roby says, adding when guests visit All Chocolate Kitchen, they can expect to be treated like family.

ACQUAVIVA WINERY 214 W. Main St., St. Charles (630) 513-6770 www.acquavivawinery.com

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Located in the heart of downtown St. Charles, Acquaviva Winery’s Wine and Tasting Bar features all of Acquaviva’s offerings to taste. Décor includes elements of wine-making traditions with barrel-like bowed ceilings and deep wood hues. Menu include small plates and Italian/ American deli options. DINING & ENTERTAINING

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2016 | 29


PETS

START THE NEW YEAR BY GIVING By Anderson Animal Shelter

Featured Sponsor: DePaw University Canine Campus With every new year, comes new resolutions and goals. Why not make one of them getting involved in a local nonprofit? By volunteering, you can make a significant difference in your community and world. At Anderson Animal Shelter in South Elgin, Illinois, volunteers are not only important, but they are an integral part of the daily business, operation and success of the Shelter. Annually, over 500 volunteers provide more than 25,000 hours of service. The individuals or groups that volunteer dedicate time to walking dogs, socializing with cats, cleaning kennels or cages, assisting with adoption events, offering foster care support, assisting at fundraising and outreach events, preparing mailings, sharing expertise and skills and more. Our extensive volunteer program enables individuals or groups to become involved in helping the shelter according to their own personal interests and talents. The Junior Volunteer program, for teens age 1316, and the Adult Volunteer program for ages 17+ offer individuals the opportunity to work on behalf of the shelter’s animals to make a positive impact in our community. If you have a child under the age of 13 who wants to get involved, please visit our Humane Education webpage to find a variety of programs for younger children. Do you have an hour a week, or even just an hour? Each volunteer, regardless of their role and amount of time they spend at the Shelter, play an instrumental role in the organization. Utilizing volunteers to assist with daily tasks allows the Shelter to save money and to direct resources and staff time where most needed. “Our volunteers are incredible,” said Jeff Pal, Director of Volunteers. “On a daily basis you can witness their love and dedication to the animals in our care. They come in enthusiastic to spend time with us and to make the lives of our companion animals better.” The Shelter utilizes volunteers 365 days a year and typically between the hours of 7 a.m. and 8 p.m. Every volunteer and every hour makes a difference! For more information on how you as an individual, or a group or company can volunteer please visit www.andersonanimalshelter.org or call (847) 697-2880 x21.

Sit.

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ll T od

ay

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WAYS TO VOLUNTEER Individuals, groups and companies can volunteer in a variety of ways including:

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Dog & Cat Care In Home Foster Care Adoption Events Events & Fundraising Community Outreach Events & Programs Administrative Assistance Office Assistance Data Entry Photography/Videography/Graphic Design Humane Education Programs


FORCE OF LOVE AND LIGHT Danae Silbert works to brighten the path for women and children By MELISSA RUBALCABA RISKE

D

anae Sibert doesn’t need a new year Hall said Sibert’s ability to coach and empower to create new resolutions. She sets others to find success as network marketing her focus on each and every day, professionals is what sets her apart. Hall said setting her intentions, journaling and giving when his daughter entered the business he gratitude for the positive aspects in her life. matched her up with Sibert as a coach. These are small steps, but Sibert has learned Scott Schmaren, a St. Charles firsthand that small steps resident, author and a neuroare all it takes to reach “I remember being performanceologist has personal success and worked with Sibert to help important changes in life. scared, but as I her grow her business. Photo by Ron McKinney

“I’m very passionate about helping people,” Sibert said.

grew my business I became a better person and I saw changes for the better”

The St. Charles resident has built a career of 20 years as a network marketing professional. She thrives on the independence and knowing she’s in control of her success and able to reap the rewards of her hard work. For the last 15 years she has worked with Orenda International, specializing in health supplements and vitamins. For Sibert, the position means a chance to offer leadership and the chance to support others living healthier lives.

The leap from a corporate career to independent sales work can seem daunting, but Sibert said it was exactly the change that may have saved her life. “I remember being scared, but as I grew my business I became a better person and I saw changes for the better,” Sibert said. Today, she enjoys seeing the positive changes in others. She finds joy in helping others discover the ability to supplement income through work and be a positive role model for others. “She’s a fountain of positive energy,” said George Hall, co-founder of Orenda International.

“Danae’s goal has been to teach women how to respect and take care of themselves physically, mentally, spiritually and financially,” Schmaren said. “She has inspired many women in her organization to discover how amazing they are and find their independence.” Her ability to lead and serve as a role model wasn’t something Sibert always saw for herself. Growing up, Sibert said her home life was filled with challenges, which lead to her own self confidence issues. “As I made my way in the world I would find what seemed like a black hole and I used to fall in, and then have to climb out,” she said, referring to troublesome relationships, challenges in life. “But, because of that journey, I feel I can help others that may be in those situations.” Sibert is working on new endeavor called the Youth Vision Project, a program aimed to help girls in middle school and high school to build self-confidence and find positive mentors in their life. Sibert said the inspiration for the program come from her own life and from raising her own daughter, Lily, a high school junior.

steps to make the difference in the lives of others. In the past she has worked with foster children for the Royal Family Kids in Fox Valley and she shares a portion of her sales from Orenda International with the Vitamin Angels programs, which provides nutrients to children around the world. Today, Sibert’s daily routine of setting intentions, offering gratitude and journaling are just the small steps to she uses to stay centered, focused and create a vision for herself. “It’s so true, what you think about, you bring about,” Sibert said. “I want to be a force of love and light.”

The work on Youth Vision Project may be new, but it isn’t the first time Sibert has taken

HEALING SPACE 2075 Foxfield Road, Suite 102, St. Charles, IL 60174

www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

BUSINESS & CIVIC

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2016 | 31


The Heart of Kane County is in the

Giving A non-profit feature

A Hand Up, Not A Hand Out! One of the biggest issues surrounding homelessness in our area is misunderstanding who the homeless are. Often stereotypes get in the way and make it hard for us to help others. Understanding that many different paths can lead to homelessness and that each person has

and spreading the word can help eliminate many misconceptions. The power of one individual can be great and lead to the power of many! Lazarus House offers emergency shelter, transitional living and outreach (rental assistance) programs to individuals from Batavia, Geneva, St. Charles, and western rural Kane County. Its mission is to offer guests connected to these communities, who are homeless or in need, hope for the future by providing hospitality, food, safe shelter, and education – tools for life. Its goals are to: • Help the homeless return to independent living with the skills and habits needed for long-term success • Offer services and referrals to help those in need in our community in order to prevent homelessness and support the wellbeing of individuals and their families.

their own, very different, story can begin to help. Some have lost everything due to medical bills. Others are educated, but have suffered a major setback due to job loss. Some are fleeing domestic violence with their children. No matter their story, they deserve help. Learning about homelessness

It is a great privilege to assist someone in their most frightening time and to witness the amazing transformation from despair to hope. Recently, we have had an influx of families with young children in shelter. These young children can both break your heart and make you smile with joy

as they struggle with the uncertainty of homelessness. We are fortunate to have caring case managers, wonderful volunteers and the support of the community to help us in guiding these parents and their children. Lazarus House invites you to become involved and help make a difference to those in need. If you would like to learn more about Lazarus House and volunteering, please visit its website at www. lazarushouseonline.com A very special event is coming soon! You are cordially invited to attend “Unmasking the Face of Homelessness” on January 16, 2016 starting at 6:00 pm at the beautiful St. Charles Country Club. Mingle during the cocktail hour with live background music, bid on silent auction items, enjoy a delicious dinner, and take part in the exciting live auction. Dinner tickets are $100 each, tables of 10. For more information contact Darlene at 630-587-2144 or email darlener@ lazarushouseonline. Please consider joining us! You too can help provide hope and a future to those in need.

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See your work in the pages of Suburban Life Magazine! 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.” 34 | | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

FASHION & BEAUTY

Cool winter wear to keep you warm and looking great

Put on that parka, bust out those boots and bundle up, because, baby, it’s cold outside! Just because the Chicago suburbs have transformed into a winter wonderland doesn’t mean that your style has to suffer for it. If anything, cold weather often translates to comfortable clothing. It’s a time for fabrics like fleece, flannel, cashmere and wool to enter your wardrobe and scarves, hats and gloves accessorize your outfits. This season, it’s all about textures and layering (is it ever not). And don’t be afraid to add a pop of color to spruce up your outdoor attire. Rock that cable-knit sweater and a pair of fringe ankle booties; pair a plaid-patterned infinity scarf with a leather bomber jacket; or keep it casual with a wool poncho and a pair of faux-fur fingerless gloves. To step out in style this season, check out these winter wears from For All Occasions in Batavia; and Artemisia, Boardsports Unlimited (for name-brand ski and snowboard apparel), Evernia, C’est la Vie, Mish and Her Art Shoppe, all in Geneva.

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EVERNIA | GENEVA CEST LA VIE BY SYLVIE | GENEVA MISH | GENEVA HER ART SHOPPE | GENEVA BOARDSPORTS | GENEVA FOR ALL OCCASIONS | BATAVIA

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FASHION & BEAUTY

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2016 | 35


HIT THE SLOPES

without heading out of town By CHRIS WALKER

A

spen and Vail may be two of the country’s most popular skiing and snowboarding destinations, but you don’t have to go to Colorado to enjoy snow sports. Nearby destinations, like Villa Olivia in Bartlett may not offer the breathtaking scenery of some of the country’s most popular wintertime destinations, or as many diverse and challenging trails, but both offer a great deal close to home for those looking for daily getaways, weekend outings as well as the opportunity to learn to ski. Downhill skiing, snowboarding and even snow tubing are offered at Villa Olivia. Plus, if Mother Nature keeps the weather cold, but decides to be light on the white stuff, you should still be able to enjoy snow sports at Villa Olivia because it has snowmaking capabilities. Villa Oliva is scheduled to remain open through March 6 as long as the weather proves accommodating. It’s welcoming to newcomers as well as the more advanced skier looking to get his or her glide on down the slopes. “We’ve got seven of what we call runs from beginner to more advanced,” said Pete Pope, superintendent of Villa Olivia. “On our most difficult run we also have terrain with some elements of rails and other jumps for snowboarders.” The Snow Sports School at Villa Olivia can teach those who have never worn skis before as well as the more advanced skier. There’s variety to fit each skier’s needs. Separate group classes for skiing and snowboarding, beginner’s packages for skiing and snowboarding and private/semiprivate lessons for both are available, as well as a program specifically designed for kids between 4 and 11 years of age. “We definitely offer all of those levels and they’re all hugely popular,” Pope said. “The structured ones fill up quickly, but we also have a number of walk-on classes for those who just come out and sign up when they get here.” If skiing or snowboarding isn’t your thing, you must give snow tubing a try, especially since 36 | | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

Lake Olivia is one of the only places in the state that offers it. It’s fun for the whole family – from the little kids to grandparents. Plus, a new conveyor lift, known as the “magic carpet,” conveniently takes you up the hill, making your day less tiring and more fun. Kids must be six years or older and 42 inches tall to ride alone, although four and five-year-olds can ride with adults. Rates for tubing are for two hours and include the use of a snow tube. Another popular destination for skiing and snowboarding is Four Lakes is Lisle. As long as the weather behaves, it should open by the midDecember. Four Lakes also has snowmaking capabilities. If it’s cold enough outside, the slopes will be ready and waiting for you. “We’re very family-oriented and we can teach young children, middle-aged children and adults the basics, as well as advanced skills in skiing and snowboarding,” said Chris Buehler, director of recreation of Four Lakes. “In that sense we cater to everybody.” Four Lakes is celebrating its 51st year of service this year. Chances are pretty good that if you’ve skied frequently in Illinois, you’ve likely visited Four Lakes. “We have a lot of returning customers every year and we’re always getting new ones, especially new kids getting enrolled in classes,” Buehler said. “We’re now getting ready for the start of the season and we expect to be especially busy over the holiday school breaks.”

If you’re looking for more options for downhill skiing, there’s an abundance of resorts a bit further away. Here are just a few: Chestnut Mountain, situated in Galena, features 19 ski runs and has more than 100 rooms. Devil’s Head in Merrimac has 28 runs and a top elevation of 995 feet. Alpine Valley is known for more than its summer rock concerts, with 20 ski runs in East Troy. Whitecap Mountain in Upson offers 43 ski runs, Cascade Mountain is conveniently located right off the highway between Madison and Wisconsin Dells and Granite Peak in Wausau is enormous, with 74 runs, topping of at nearly 2,000 feet.

Group outings are extremely popular at Four Lakes and Villa Olivia. While individuals and families can have a blast on the slopes, groups are also enjoying outdoor winter fun.

Michigan has plenty of bunny hills to advance runs that are as challenging as you’ll find in the Midwest. There’s Timber Ridge in Gobles where guests enjoy lake effect snow and a picturesque 60-wooded acres. Nub’s Nob has 53 runs and covers 248 acres. Probably the closest destination is Swiss Valley in Jones, which is about a 2.5-hour drive from Chicago. These are just a few of the more than 50 skiing destinations in Michigan.

“We do see a lot of groups with churches, youth groups, park districts, and everything in between,” Buehler said. “People really enjoy skiing and snowboarding. It’s still a growing industry and every day we’re serving more and more people.”

For those looking for the most daring run since Lane conquered the K-12 in “Better Off Dead,” should check out the Bad Seed run at Mount Bohemia in the Upper Peninsula. Built over a prehistoric volcano, its challenging terrain also features cliff drops, if you dare.

There’s a Ski & Snowboard School at Four Lakes to teach novices as well as to provide refresher courses and more. Classes are offered throughout the week.

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GREAT JANUARY EVENTS Discover more at planitkane.com

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JANUARY 8 - 10 Pheasant Run Convention Center 4051 East Main Street, St. Charles

7:30 P.M., JANUARY 9 Batavia Fine Arts Centre 1201 Main Street, Batavia

ADMISSION: $12 single day pass online $15 single day pass at the gate $20 weekend pass online $25 weekend pass at the gate Children 12 and under are FREE Event Hours: Friday 1:00pm-8:00pm Saturday 10:00am-8:00pm Sunday 10:00am-4:00pm

For the first time, original Broadway and Movie Rent co-stars Adam Pascal and Anthony Rapp come together in a special concert evening. These two Broadway veterans return to the concert stage in a pop/rock evening celebrating their individual musical careers as well as the Broadway cultural hit, “Rent.” These two friends and co-stars will share stories about the hit show that brought them together 13 years ago and perform songs from the Pulitzer Prize winning show as well as their individual songs and original material audiences have come to know. It’s sure to be a popular concert tour following on the heels of their two-year National Tour of the hit Broadway show. It’s the concert fans have been waiting for! Visit www. bataviafineartscentre.org

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HAIRSPRAY: THE MUSICAL WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 20-JANUARY 24 Paramount Theatre 23 E Galena Blvd., Aurora Tracy Turnblad is a plus-size teen with plus-size hair, and she has one big plus-size dream – to dance her way onto Baltimore’s smash hit TV show, “The Corny Collins Show.” Every day after school, she and best friend Penny bee-line home to watch the cool kids shake the rafters to the hottest tunes on Collins’ program. When a dance slot opens on the show, Tracy gets help from her friend Seaweed, who puts enough groove in her step to win that dream role – and life is never the same again. But Tracy doesn’t rest on her stardom, instead she uses her new celebrity to racially integrate the TV show and change the lives of Baltimore folks forever. Based on the John Waters hit movie, Hairspray is a high-octane ride with thrilling choreography, rockin’ tunes and explosively colorful costumes – plus some really cool hairdos. More importantly, under all the glitz, Hairspray reminds us of the importance of individuality and the acceptance of one another: a wonderful message to share with everyone. Book by Mark O’Donnell & Thomas Meehan Music by Marc Shaiman Lyrics by Scott Wittman & Marc Shaiman Based on the New Line Cinema film directed & written by John Waters Directed by Amber Mak. SUGGESTED RATING: PG TICKETS: $56-$41 SPONSORED BY: BMO Harris Bank, the Dunham Fund and ComEd

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Investment advisory products and services are made available through Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc., a registered investment adviser. Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA and SIPC. © 2014 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved. (7/14) 40 | | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

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KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2016 | 41


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“Wild” by Cheryl Strayed (2012) A selection for Oprah’s Book Club 2.0 that reached No. 1 on the New York Times Best Seller list and was turned into a major motion picture starring Reese Witherspoon. The author embarks on a journey of selfdiscovery while hiking 1,100 miles of the Pacific Crest Trail.

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“Into the Wild”

by Jon Krakauer Instead of embarking on a prestigious and profitable career, Christopher McCandless chooses to give his savings to charity, rid himself of his possessions, and set out on a journey to the Alaskan wilderness.

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“A Walk Across America”

by Peter Jenkins A young man sets out on a walk across America. This is the book he wrote about that journey – a classic account of the reawakening of his faith in himself and his country.

“Out of Africa,”

by Isak Dinesen (1937) Depicted on screen by Robert Redford and Meryl Streep, “Out of Africa” is an autobiographical account of Karen Blixen’s (who wrote under the pseudonym Isak Dinesen) life on a coffee plantation on the Ngong Hills in Kenya.

“Journey Without Maps”

by Graham Greene (1936) A travel account by Graham Greene about a 350-mile, four-week walk through the interior of Liberia in 1935.

“My Summer in the Sierra”

by John Muir (1911) Conservationist and “Father of the National Parks,” John Muir, describes his spiritual awakening amid the mountains and valleys of central California.

“House in the Sky”

by Amanda Lindhout and Sarah Corbett A recount of Lindhout’s experience in southern Somalia as a hostage of teenage militants from an Islamic fundamentalist group.

“Into the Heart of the Sea”

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KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2016 | 43


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