KC Magazine August 2020

Pets & Family EDITION

HOME OFFICE HAVEN AUGUST 2020

How to make working from home more efficient PAGE 30

WATER STREET STUDIOS A Q&A about art’s importance PAGE 36

Love v Puppy

Auggie embodies the joy a rescue dog g brings Page 8

BACK TO SCHOOL

2 STUDENT PERSPECTIVES ON UPCOMING YEAR | PAGE 24 KCMAG_August_Ads.indd 1

7/29/20 10:59 AM

Ream’s Meat Market CELEBRATE SUMMER! Steak or Chicken Kabobs w/ Our Own Smoked Sausage Our own Italian Beef, Pork Bar B Que We make over Pulled Pork, Potato Salad 100 varieties Meat and Cheese Trays of Smoked Meats and National Grand Champion and Sausages Bratwurst, Beef Wieners Steaks, Burgers and more

www.ReamsMeatMarket.com A GREAT OLD FASHIONED FULL SERVICE MEAT MARKET KCMAG_August_Ads.indd 2

7/29/20 10:59 AM

Celebrating

4

years of Fear Free Care Certified Since 2018

2312 W Main Street St. Charles, IL (630)524-2125 | loyal-companions.com

Surgery & Dental Vaccinations Ultrasounds Overnight Lodging Doggie Daycare Grooming & Training

KCMAG_August_Ads.indd 3

7/29/20 10:59 AM

Editor's

NOTE Happy August!

This issue is all about pets and families, two central parts of life that have become even more near and dear as we navigate the pandemic. My dog, Cooper, is gray and fluffy and the perfect companion for relaxing after a long day. When it comes to families, I have to give a special thanks to Mom, Dad, Tom, Louis and Norah for all of their support.

And thank you to you, my new Kane County family, for giving me a warm welcome to northern Illinois. It’s only been three months, and I already feel incredibly at home here.

Whether it’s renovating your home office to be more efficient or finding a routine as school resumes, this issue has what you need to get August off to a great start. If you’re itching to try a new place, I’d recommend Obscurity Brewing and Craft Mead in Elburn (P. 17). A hearty plate of barbecue and a fresh take on a drink dating back to Shakespeare is definitely in order!

And if you’re wondering what school feels like for students this fall, read what Jessica Winkates from St. Charles North High School and Daniela Paladino from St. Charles East High School have to say (P.

24). As a teenager, I wrote a children’s book series that was published, an experience that fundamentally shaped me as a person and writer. Because of this early exposure to writing, editing and working as a team with other artists, it’s really important for me to amplify the voices of young writers.

I’m excited to celebrate Jessica and Daniela this month and would love to hear from other young writers if they have ideas for the magazine.

Last but not least, head to Batavia’s Water Street Studios, which has some very exciting plans in the works. I sat down with Taylor Egan, the new executive director, and was reminded how lucky we are to have a resource for artists and art lovers in the TriCities. Hopefully you can make it out there to check out their next gallery exhibition, or maybe you can experiment with creating your own art. Or both!

PUBLISHER Daily Chronicle & Suburban Weekly Group Laura Shaw 630-709-4497 lshaw@shawmedia.com EDITOR Hannah Hoffmeister 630-427-6263 hhoffmeister@shawmedia.com DESIGNER Allison LaPorta 630-427-6260 alaporta@shawmedia.com LOCAL SALES MANAGER Kane County Chronicle & Niche Publishing Jaclyn Cornell 630-845-5234 jcornell@shawmedia.com CORRESPONDENTS Vicki Martinka Petersen, Jonathan Bilyk, Allison Bills, Diane Krieger Spivak, Pat Szpekowski and Kevin Druley.

STUDENT WRITERS Jessica Winkates and Daniela Paladino

Stay safe, and thanks for reading!

Hannah Hoffmeister, Editor

on the

COVER

Auggie, a 3-year-old golden retriever and collie mix, gives a doggone cute smile at the Fabyan Forest Preserve. To read more about him and his owner, Emma Collins, head to P. 8.

This magazine is available by subscription for $24 a year. If you would like each month’s edition mailed to your home, send your request with payment information to Shaw Media, 7717 S. Route 31, Crystal Lake, IL 60014 or via email at subscriptions@shawmedia.com.

Published by Shaw Media 333 N. Randall Road, Suite 2 St. Charles, IL 60174

Photo By Andrew Young Photography

4

AUGUST

2020

KCMAG_August_Ads.indd 4

7/29/20 10:59 AM

Your Local Butcher

E M I T R E M M U S GRILLING

Bacon Wrapped Filet Mignons ~ Boneless Ribeye ~ Prime Rib ~ Bone-In Strip Steak ~ N.Y. Strip ~ Porterhouse We dry age choice & prime cuts of American Beef and cut them to your specs!

Have You Met the “Godfather”?

Try our new “Godfather” Sausage and “Godfather” Burgers.

Homemade Sausage with 3 cheeses, basil, parsley & hot giardiniera

The Ultimate Tasting Burger Ever Created ~ The Cowboy Burger~ Made with Prime Brisket & California Prime Tri-Tip

Fire Up Your Barbeque with our COOKOUT SPECIALTIES!

Hours:

Tues-Fri: 10 AM to 5 PM Sat: 10 AM to 5 PM Sun: 10 AM to 2 PM

Homemade Italian or Polish Sausage • Brats • Aged Tender Steaks • BBQ Ribs • Jumbo Chops Signature Burgers for the Grill (12oz. each) • Tuscan • Blue Cheese • Bacon-Onion Cheddar • Jalapeno Jack • Gourmet Sliders A Summer Favorite!

20 Different Fresh Salads Daily and Our Own Homemade Potato Salad. What’s a party without Josef’s potato salad?

Featuring a full Line of Boars Head Luncheon Meats

CUSTOM CATERING FOR ALL YOUR PARTY NEEDS Engstrom Plaza • 716 West State St., Geneva (Entrance on 7th Street) En

630-262-1878 • www.josefsmeats.com KCMAG_August_Ads.indd 5

7/29/20 10:59 AM

INSIDE

What's

FAMILY & PETS: 8 DEVOTED DUO Meet Auggie, who starred on the cover, and his owner, Emma Collins 10 BIRDS OF A FEATHER Is a winged pet in your future?

Here's what you should know 12 RAINING CATS AND DOGS Adoptions soar during pandemic 14 GET YOUR BARK BACK Who let the dogs out? Socializing is important for your pet

DINING & ENTERTAINING: 17 TAKE HEED OF THE MEAD Obscurity Brewing and Craft Mead fills niche drinking, dining gap 20 EAT HEALTHY, EVEN WHEN YOU’RE OUT Digestive expert Dr. Tarun Mullick visits Tusk Thai Cuisine in Batavia

BACK TO SCHOOL:

26 RULE THE SCHOOL Here’s how to help your kids get back to a routine 28 TRENDY TIMES Kids’ hair trends you didn’t expect

HOME & LIFESTYLE: 30 OPTIMIZE YOUR OFFICE SPACE Working from home, made more effective 33 NEW OUTLET FOR THE ARTS Trend & Relic focuses on both new, vintage items

BUSINESS & CIVIC: 34 TALES FROM A PANDEMIC Tom McCartney and Sharon Piet on curious COVID-19 behaviors 36 SNAPSHOT OF THE WORLD A Q&A with Taylor Egan at Water Street Studios

22 RECREATION FOR ALL Parks partnership offers inclusive opportunities 23 MASK UP Wearing a mask sets a good example, Superdad says 24 LOCAL STUDENTS’ PERSPECTIVES Two students contemplate upcoming school year

6

AUGUST

2020

KCMAG_August_Ads.indd 6

7/29/20 10:59 AM

Specializing In Quality Food, Treats & Supplies For Cats & Dogs

Bruce and Willy’s is a naturally minded resource for pet owners looking for a more organic approach to their pets’ health concerns. We offer personalized service tailored to your pets’ specific health needs. We have the largest line of herbal, homeopathic, and whole food supplements in the Chicagoland area, with the knowledge to help you decide what is best for your furry friend. We focus on addressing root causes, not just masking symptoms. We wholeheartedly believe in a proactive approach when it comes to addressing your pets’ health.

Beyond our huge selection of high quality supplements, we also have the best selection of treats and fresh food. We have inspected every ingredient in every product we carry, and have chosen only the highest quality products to put on our shelves. We are very picky about what we choose because we want any choice you make to be a great choice. We won’t carryy anything in our store that we wouldn’t give to our own pets.

308 W. State St. Geneva • 630-465-0727 • www.bruceandwillys.com Sun. 11-4, Mon. 11-5, Tues. - Fri. 11-7, Sat 11-6 KCMAG_August_Ads.indd 7

7/29/20 10:59 AM

Devoted Duo Meet Auggie, a 3-year-old rescue, and his owner, Emma Collins

By Hannah Hoffmeister | Photos By Andrew Young Photography

W

hen it comes to being an outstanding dog, Auggie checks all the boxes.

Good with kids and other animals? Check. Obedient on walks, to the point of not needing a leash? Check. Knowing when you need an extra snuggle? Check.

8

“He’s just super devoted to me, and I’m devoted to him,” says Auggie’s owner, Emma Collins of St. Charles.

she met Auggie, a golden retriever and collie mix who turned 3 this month. She adopted him when he was 10 weeks old.

While attending Southern Illinois UniversityEdwardsville, Collins, now 23, volunteered at Partners for Pets in Troy, Illinois. That’s where

“You could tell he was a sweetheart,” Collins says.

Auggie and Collins have clicked since his 2017 adoption — she trained him herself, they go

PETS & FAMILY AUGUST 2020

KCMAG_August_Ads.indd 8

7/29/20 10:59 AM

everywhere together, and he prefers her company to anyone else’s. The benefits go beyond companionship; Collins cites better physical and mental health, a sense of financial responsibility, better time management and a greater feeling of selflessness because of Auggie.

But even before Auggie was in the picture, Collins was invested in others. Because her mom, Katie, works at Lazarus House in St. Charles, Collins has volunteered there since she was 8, including most Friday nights in high school.

“

Animals can sense if you’re going through a hard time in a way that’s different than humans

”

Emma Collins

“That’s what got me into social work,” Collins says. “That’s the greatest gift my mom has ever given me. You see the

human resilience in people, and I’ve met the most amazing, inspiring people.”

Now with a bachelor’s degree in social work, she hopes to continue giving back to others with work in an emergency room or with kids. Ideally, Auggie would be included in that by becoming certified to be a volunteer at a hospital or nursing home.

“Animals can sense if you’re going through a hard time in a way that’s different than humans,” Collins says. “There’s a different connection there.”

PETS & FAMILY AUGUST 2020

KCMAG_August_Ads.indd 9

9

7/29/20 10:59 AM

BIRDS off a

Feather

WINGED PETS LEND THEMSELVES TO STRONG SOCIAL, FAMILY BONDS

By Jonathan Bilyk

A

hamster.

s Zack Nebelsick sees it, owning a bird may not be for everyone.

But then again, he says, neither is owning a dog or cat or even a

But for the right people, there is something magical and unique about owning a bird that no other pet can quite match, says Nebelsick, an associate at Bird is the Word, Batavia's pet store specializing in all things avian.

The special aspects of owning a bird have helped pet birds increase in popularity in U.S. households in the past few years — particularly for those who may not be able to own larger mammalian companions, like dogs or cats, in smaller dwelling spaces.

According to an American Pet Products Association survey, birds rank as the fourth most popular kind of pet, trailing cats, dogs and fish. Almost 7% of all pet-owning American households have a bird, according to the survey results.

10

The bird ownership journey begins, Nebelsick says, with discovering each bird’s individual nature.

“A lot of times owners are just really surprised at their very real, sometimes really big personalities,” says Nebelsick. “It’s a treat just to take the time and figure out all of their quirks.”

He, for instance, owns several African grey parrots. And each of them comes with its own set of unique traits, likes, dislikes and ways of expressing itself.

“One of them will only talk for my boyfriend, never for me or anyone else,” Nebelsick says. “Another I’ve had can’t stand the color red. It really can be an interesting mix to unravel, and you never know what you’re going to find.”

But those sometimes-strong personalities can also lend themselves to social and family bonds as strong as — or even stronger than — the bonds involving furry four-legged, ground-bound friends.

In the wild, Nebelsick notes, the kinds of birds kept as pets often live in large social groups. Parrot species, for instance,

PETS & FAMILY AUGUST 2020

KCMAG_August_Ads.indd 10

7/29/20 11:00 AM

Hand Fed Baby Birds Toys & Supplies

BI RD WO RD IS THE

“They depend on that social structure, and they thrive on social interaction,” says Nebelsick.

Eventually, he says, your pet bird will really become a part of the family.

“That bond can be truly special.”

Before entering into that human-avian relationship, Nebelsick says there are certain aspects to bird ownership that potential bird keepers should carefully consider.

LONGEVITY

Unlike dogs and cats, which might live a few years to a couple of decades, most bird pet species will live several decades, perhaps as long as 60 years.

“There is a very good chance these birds will outlive you,” he says, especially if purchased by someone over 50.

Would-be bird owners must be prepared to be in it for the long haul; consider having a succession plan in place to be sure the bird is well cared for throughout its life.

LIFESTYLE

Because many birds are such social creatures, bird owners need to be in a place in life in which they can give their birds the attention they need.

Depending on the species, this could be several hours of social interaction a day.

Further, Nebelsick says, birds were made to fly, and require safe spaces to do so. This begins with placing the bird in a properly sized cage. Avian experts like the team at Bird is the Word can help bird owners determine the right sizes for each bird or fledgling flock, he says.

Helping birds satisfy their exercise needs could also mean creating a safe space within a home for the bird to leave its cage, or building an outdoor aviary for the birds to stretch their wings. But, he cautioned, “they should not be left outdoors overnight or without supervision,” as that could leave them exposed to a host of potential dangers, including

mosquito-borne avian infections, which could sicken or even kill them.

Wing & Nail Trims on Saturdays and Sundays Boarding Services by Appointment

Potential owners should also take stock of their financial ability to feed and care for their birds, as some diets could consist of mounds of fresh produce or even rare exotic nuts that can be hard to find locally.

Open 7 Days a Week — Mon - Fri. 10am - 6pm Sat. 10am - 6pm | Sun 10am - 5pm

30. S Shumway • Batavia 630-406-7610 • www.birdistheword.com

And he cautioned owners should be aware that birds can be downright noisy, if not “horrendously loud.”

Laughing, he says, “If you’re working from home, and require hours of uninterrupted quiet, perhaps consider a different pet.”

Dogs • Cats • Birds • Exotics Susan J. Cechner, D.V.M.

Full Service Animal Hospital

PATIENCE

Birds can be trained to do what their owners want, and can learn to do tricks or even talk, depending on the species. But they are not dogs or even cats. Training techniques that work on those companions will not work as well with birds, Nebelsick says.

Offering Chiropractic & acupuncture for pets

403 E. North Street • Elburn

SM-CL1797472

are often never more than 50 feet away from another member of their flock.

Visit our Store for a complete Line of Cages, Food, Toys, & Accessories

630.365.9599

“It can be a challenge,” he says.

“Because of their intelligence and their nature, they’re not necessarily interested in doing something to please you. They want to know what’s in it for them.”

FIT

Not every bird species is the right fit for every household. Nebelsick says first-time bird owners may wish to consider cockatiels. They “can be very sweet and friendly,” can be relatively easily trained, and are relatively small birds, he says. Further, they are not very noisy, making them a good fit for an apartment dweller.

“Their ownership costs are going to be relatively low, too,” he says.

“They’re a great starter bird.”

Bird is the Word has more than 30 bird species, offering a large range of options to consider. Popular species include parrots; cockatoos; parakeets; “budgies,” or budgerigar; and conures. The store also sells a variety of finches and canaries, among others.

“I’m not going to tell you there’s a bird for everyone, because not everyone should own a bird,” says Nebelsick.

“But for the right person, it’s a great experience.”

PETS & FAMILY AUGUST 2020

KCMAG_August_Ads.indd 11

11

7/29/20 11:00 AM

Raining s g o D & s Cat I

f you need a silver lining for the first half of 2020, look no further than pet adoptions.

Consider Anderson Animal Shelter in South Elgin and Tails Humane Society in DeKalb, both of which began appointmentonly pet adoptions in early April.

From that time through early July, a total of 1,315 pets found new homes.

Pet adoptions soar during pandemic, providing comfort and love to new homes

By Pat Szpekowski

12

“Like most businesses, our adoption program was suspended for a time due to COVID-19,” says Beth Foster, CEO of Anderson Animal Shelter, “but we’ve been going strong ever since. This is an emotional time for people, and we know that pets provide emotional support during times of stress.”

The stresses of this spring also brought a sincere yearning for the presence and companionship of a furry friend while Zooming online, working from home or e-learning.

Brooke Condon of North Aurora adopted Avery, a male puppy boxer mix, in April through Tales Humane Society. “We renamed our puppy Milo,” Condon says.

“He has been a great addition

to our family. Getting out, walking and hiking with Milo has provided us with a lot of activity during a time when it’s easy to just remain sedentary.”

Of the 1,315 pet adoptions, 61% were puppies or dogs, 36% were kittens or cats and 3% were little critters.

Matching the right pet with a loving family is an important process at both Anderson and Tales. Potential adopters have honest conversations with staff about what kind of pet would best fit their family’s needs and lifestyle.

“At Tales, a potential adopter completes an adoption profile,” says Michelle Groeper, executive director at Tales Humane Society. “They’ll answer questions about other pets and kids in the home and if they have a quiet or active environment.

Before finalizing adoptions, we prefer all family members, including pets, to meet the adoptables, too.”

What type of a pet is a good fit, and for whom? “High energy, outgoing dogs and cats tend to fit better into active families,” says Foster, “while lower energy

PETS & FAMILY AUGUST 2020

KCMAG_August_Ads.indd 12

7/29/20 11:00 AM

Readyto ride? and fearful pets tend to do best in quiet homes which may be suitable for older adopters.” She also encourages adopters to pay more attention to a pet’s personality rather than appearance when making adoption decisions.

The special bond between a pet and adopter marks the beginning of a new relationship, adventure and routines.

And after adoptions, shelters still keep in touch.

experience for them from the time your new pet leaves the shelter to arrival at home. Set up a quiet crate where your new pet will be left alone to get used to his or her new environment.”

Need extra help? Foster recommends organizations like A Sound Beginning in Winfield, which offers assistance to adopters for transitioning a new pet into a home environment.

Looking for local bike trails?

Find the 2020 Fox River Trail Guide at www.foxriverbiketrails.com

“Tails was amazing,” notes Condon, “helping us set up private meets and following up with us to make sure all was going well.”

Coming soon to the local park districts and most retail locations noted below.

A successful transitional plan for a new pet is important.

“As in any new relationship, there is typically a honeymoon period after adoption,” says Foster.

“A good start is to provide a calm, safe

w w w. f o x r i v e r b i k e t r a i l s . c o m

CRITTERS Matching People and Pets Since 1988!

P E T

224.856.5780

566 Randall Road • South Elgin

located in between Target and Caputo’s Fresh Market SM-CL1797454

Open during Covid-19 11-6 Mon - Sat 11-5 Sunday

S H O P

Pets & Supplies Natural Foods Raw Foods

Rescue Pets Aquarium Sales Tropical Fish

www.CrittersPetShopInc.com PETS & FAMILY AUGUST 2020

KCMAG_August_Ads.indd 13

13

7/29/20 11:00 AM

K C A B K BAR GET YOUR

Socialization, regular routines can help your pets with the transition back to normal

By Vicki Martinka Petersen Photos provided by Dogtopia

W

hether it was more walks around the neighborhood or frequent cameos during Zoom meetings, no one can deny that many pets relished their owners’ extra time at home this year.

As many companies cautiously welcome employees back into the office, the transition back to normal can take some time for all family members to adjust, including the fur babies.

“Dogs are good with consistency and structure,” says Dana Champion, owner of Dogtopia in Geneva.

“Staying at home became a routine, and they became used to being around their owners more often.”

If your dogs are having a hard time with this

14

adjustment, they’re not alone.

“They’re getting into disagreements with dogs they used to get along with,” Champion says.

One way pet owners can help ease their pets’ anxiety is by maintaining a normal schedule. Even coming into daycare a few days every week can help dogs become adjusted within three to four weeks as opposed to coming in once in a while.

Even going a few half days per week can help with the transition.

If your dog is really struggling upon returning to care outside the home, Champion suggests checking with your pet daycare to see if there are slower days when less pets might be in. Being around a smaller number of animals could help

PETS & FAMILY AUGUST 2020

KCMAG_August_Ads.indd 14

7/29/20 11:00 AM

SERVING THE FOX VALLEY AREA FOR OVER 45 YEARS

• From Major Collision Damage to Minor Dent & Scratch Repair • Paintless Repair • Lifetime Warranty

TriCity Auto, Inc. EST 1972 110 N. Randall Rd. St. Charles tricityautoinc.com

Updated Hours: Monday–Friday 7:30–5:00pm Saturday By Appointment them ease into getting back into their previous routine, she says.

baby, pet parenting also takes a lot of patience.

During the stay-at-home order, many people filled extra time at home by adopting a new pet. This left new pet parents struggling to find opportunities for their new pets to socialize.

“Don’t get frustrated and return the puppy. Instead, (look) into training programs if you can’t do pet daycare,” suggests Champion.

To help owners and their dogs, Dogtopia offers a puppy preschool class allowing up to eight puppies.

The young students learn how to socialize with each other before they enter daycare.

Just like caring for a new human

Rt. 64

*

Randall Rd.

TRI

CITY AUTO

630-584-5115

Wooff Wash Dog Grooming Woof & Self-Serve S Se Dog Wash Family Owned & Operated Since 1992 F

Excce Exceptional Exceptio ce io Quality Grooming elf S & Self Serve Dog Washing at R Reasonable Rates

If you’re not yet ready to take the leap back into pet daycare, going to a dog park or having a puppy play date will help keep them socialized.

137 S. BATAVIA AVE. BATAVIA

“The more socializing your pet can do now, the easier it will be for them to get back into the swing of things when they do return to daycare,” Champion says.

(Corner of Main St. & Rt. 31)

630-879-1896 SM-CL1796659 CL1 L17 796

www.woofwash.weebly.com

#+"'+*!( +% "&)&$( 2021 83<;$ .57# ! 6=&=73 ! /1(+2,1+4-(( ! #$;:$"93*%$');=&=73 .#/'!-/ '"!( ,&)1!%+'!-/ '- *#%#!$# + ")## (*&0 $.&0 1,-.!0& (+*)%.-! '&*/0 PETS & FAMILY AUGUST 2020

KCMAG_August_Ads.indd 15

15

7/29/20 11:00 AM

Farm Fresh ¢ Abbey Farms

2855 Hart Road, Aurora 630-966-7775 | www.AbbeyFarms.org Bright, bold and delicious! Each summer, Abbey Farms’ Farmers Market offers locally grown sweet corn and a variety of other fruits and vegetables picked at the peak of freshness — with much of our produce grown right here on our farm. Plus, we offer a variety of unique Abbey Farms food items, such as preserves, sauces, dressings, salsas, dips, spices and more. We also sell pies, breads and donuts at our bakery, in addition to weekly take-home family meals. After shopping at the farm store, relax on our patio with a treat from our small bites menu, or enjoy a ready-made picnic on the lawn, made with our farm-fresh items. Embark on a flavor journey by heading to Abbey Farms! Located at 2855 Hart Road in Aurora.

Visit www.AbbeyFarms.org for details!

¢ geneva french market The Geneva French Market is an open-air European-style market that has made Geneva its home for over 17 years. Enjoy your choice of fresh vegetables and fruits of the season and so much more. Take home a bouquet of flowers to brighten your day. Stroll the aisles for fresh baked goods, honey and farm fresh eggs. At this market, treasures from myriad artisans with unique gifts for the home and your family.

The Geneva French Market is open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. every Sunday through mid-November, 8 to 9 a.m. for at risk and senior patrons. Located in the parking lot between Fourth and South streets near the Third Street Metra Station. For more information, visit www.bensidounusa.com.

Covid-19 precautions are in place. For customer guidance, please visit: https://bensidounusa.com/download/general-french-marketguide061220.pdf

For everyone’s safety, be sure to follow COVID-19 guidelines and restrictions each of the individual markets have in place.

16

DINING & ENTERTAINING AUGUST 2020

KCMAG_August_Ads.indd 16

7/29/20 11:00 AM

'NOTHING LIKE THIS AROUND' Obscurity Brewing and Craft Mead in Elburn fills niche dining, drinking gap

By Kevin Druley Photos by Spencer Plum

N

icole Bergner figures she has “followed the progression of things” during an accomplished restaurant career, advancing from teenage dishwasher to bartender to bar manager to general manager — the role she now holds at Obscurity Brewing and Craft Mead, a new establishment at 113 W. North St. in Elburn.

The sum of those experiences is something Bergner holds dear. It eases her ability to gush about everything Obscurity has to offer.

FROM LEFT TO RIGHT: Kyle Anderson (Pitmaster), Gavin Male (Owner), Lucas Goucher (Owner), Dane Male (Owner), Dustin Zeitler (Owner), Brandon Harris (Owner), Carson Souza (Brewer) and Nicole Bergner (General Manager) smile at Obscurity Brewing and Craft Mead.

KCMAG_August_Ads.indd 17

“I’ve worked in the industry for many years,” Bergner says. “There’s really nothing like this around. We have our brewery. We have the meadery as well. In addition to that, I think our kitchen concept is very, very unique.”

Enter Obscurity’s sizable, wood-fired smoker, which requires near round-the-clock attention as pitmaster Kyle Anderson and Co. prepare the kindling and meat for freshly prepared barbecue dishes including smoked brisket, ribs, chicken, pork

DINING & ENTERTAINING AUGUST 2020

17

7/29/20 11:00 AM

if yo u en jo y wi shoulder steak and additional specialty items.

If you’re looking for a freezer or microwave on the premises, you won’t find one.

“The idea is we’re going to run out of food on any given day, so get there early,” says coowner Luke Goucher, a Geneva product who operates Obscurity alongside Dustin Zeitler, Brandon Harris, Gavin Male and Dane Male.

“It’s been happening, and we’re still trying to hone in on what’s the right amount for the day.

“Because it’s fresh, fresh, fresh game, we want that experience to be the same whether you come in in the morning or come in at the end of the day. And to get that accomplished, we make just enough. And on busy days, we run out. So that’s the drill on the barbecue. It’s as traditional as it gets.”

Mead, which dates to Shakespearean times and beyond, also knows a heritage all its own. One of the world’s oldest fermented beverages, the blend of water, honey, malt and yeast recently has experienced a resurgence on the craft scene.

Behind brewmaster Carson Souza, Obscurity hopes to bring its mead to the mainstream, and thus far has experienced positive feedback since business opened in early July.

To Bergner, if you enjoy wine, chances are you’ll agree with mead, too.

“You’ll see meaderies here and there, but it’s not as well known and as popular and as readily available as beer,” she says, “so we’re looking to make mead drinkers out of everyone that comes through the door.”

Enjoy Weekly Entertainment

While Relaxing in our Beer Garden Think Summer Salads with White Balsamic

Tuesday • 6pm Local Musician Spotlight Thursday • 7:30pm Team Trivia

Come taste 60 different extra virgin olive oils and balsamic vinegars from all over the world. Unique Gift Baskets Available.

Friday & Saturday • 8pm Live Music in the Beer Garden

Homemade Skincare Products made with Olive Oil: Soaps ~ Lip Balms ~ Moisturizers

See Us for New Vinaigrette Recipes!

Sunday • 6pm Bluegrass Sunday

Special Tastings of our Products Every Weekend

Store Hours

12 N. River St., Batavia • 630.406.9200 •

Mon-Fri 10am-6pm ~ Thurs 10am-8pm ~ Sat 10am-5:30pm ~ Sun 11am-4pm

315 James St. • Geneva, IL • (630) 262-0210 • www.olivemillgeneva.com

18

SM-CL1798073

Presented by the River Edge’s Bar & Grill

DINING & ENTERTAINING AUGUST 2020

KCMAG_August_Ads.indd 18

7/29/20 11:00 AM

, wi ne , ch an ce s ar e yo u ll ag re e wi th me ad , to o.

To that end, Bergner says the present combined indoor and patio capacity is about 100 guests, compared to 250 at full boar, er, bore.

Obscurity brass pride themselves on using locally sourced ingredients for items on the food and drink menu. True to the establishment’s surroundings, expect to see plenty of grain cycle in and out.

“Luckily, because we’re in a farming community, we can donate that spent grain to local farmers and they can use it to feed their pigs or their cows,” Bergner says. “So we’re able to kind of give back in the community that way, as well.”

IF YOU GO ¢ OBSCURITY BREWING AND CRAFT MEAD 113 W. North St., Elburn www.drinkobscurity.com

Photo by Obscurity Brewing and Craft Mead

Honey — notice the bee-themed “Drink Obscurity” logo — doubles as an ingredient in a variety of beers and other drinks, including a hefeweizen braggot. At press time, Goucher said Obscurity had filled 12-15 of its 20 tap handles, and planned to expand as restrictions related to the COVID-19 pandemic ease across Illinois.

Hours: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m., Sunday through Thursday; 11 a.m. to midnight Friday and Saturday

w w w.thevillagesquire.com

“Great place to be!”

English Pub-Style Casual Dining Featuring Live Music & a Cozy Unique Atmosphere

SOUTH ELGIN • 847-931-0400 • 480 Randall Road WEST DUNDEE • 847-428-4483 • 125 Washington Street

W W W.THEVILL AGESQUIRE .COM DINING & ENTERTAINING AUGUST 2020

KCMAG_August_Ads.indd 19

19

7/29/20 11:00 AM

Let’s support our local restaurants, which are finally open with outdoor seating for social gathering purposes. Just think, if we can wear masks and socially distance, we can still eat out while controlling the spread of the virus.

Come with me and grab takeout at least two times a week.

20

As we are in summer, I was hungry for some great Thai food. A few told me about this wonderful place where you can feel like you are in Thailand, feeding the elephants and seeing a wonderful temple at the same time. That’s Tusk Thai Cuisine in Batavia.

Nestled by the river is the hottest spot in Batavia, as rated by many. I decided to do takeout from here, and boy, was it right on the spot. Starting with the freshness of the Thai spring rolls, I got a burst of vitamins without many carbs. Tofu, bean sprouts, cucumbers and carrot were wrapped in spring roll wrapper and served with a sweet but tart plum sauce. It’s like a high-end salad but in a fresh roll!

I wanted to stay light, so I went with the “Tusk Wraps,” which are delectable lettuce wraps.

Infusing ground chicken with cilantro, Thai spices, ground peanuts and some crunchy noodles, the lettuce gems neatly wrapped it all

into five perfect bites. It was amazing how I could eat the perfect balance of fat and protein with fantastic flavor, but still watch that waistline by limiting carbs.

To finish up, I ordered the lemon grass beef, a dish with stir-fried slices of beef with lemon grass, bell peppers, onions, carrots and pea pods, all garnished with chili flakes. Talk about a little kick to those taste buds — it felt like I was right in Thailand!

¢ Dr. Tarun Mullick is a specialist trained at Johns Hopkins and Cleveland Clinic in Gastroenterology and Endoscopy based in Geneva. Connect with him at www.mullickmd.com or by phone at 630-232-2025.

DINING & ENTERTAINING AUGUST 2020

KCMAG_August_Ads.indd 20

7/29/20 11:00 AM

TELEHEALTH APPOINTMENTS PLEASE CALL 630-232-2025

Ask the doctor

It is my honor and privilege to serve the community and readership of this publication. Our practice’s focus is to care for patients, to help them and tailor their care individually with current therapies. Here are some questions we've recently been asked:

Q: Do you offer telehealth? Many practices don’t? What do you think about that?

A: Yes, we offer telehealth. This means you can get treatment

without leaving your home. We will only bring you in for necessary tests, and you can choose locations away from hospitals, which likely have more serious COVID-19 patients. It’s safer to go to smaller practices and centers like ours. In general, it appears telehealth is here to stay for years to come. It presents an alternative. And for those who don’t like waits — we call you.

Q: What is NASH? A: NASH stands for nonalcoholic steatohepatitis. This is a liver

disease where the fat deposits in the liver and turns to scar over time, causing liver cirrhosis. It is a truly rising concern in the world now. If you are concerned, get screened with some liver tests. If elevated, then go to the gastroenterologist; we help several with that problem. There are new medicines coming out soon.

Q: I heard getting a colonoscopy is just for women or men like breast or prostate cancer.

A: Colon cancer affects both men and women, thus colonoscopy is important for both men and women above the age of 45 to get screened. In addition, if you have any symptoms of bleeding, change in bowel habits, weight loss or abdominal pain, request a workup with a gastroenterologist. The colonoscopy is equally as important as any other test for breast and prostate. Please get evaluated to identify polyps and get them removed. While colonoscopy is not a perfect test, it is the best out there.

Q: I have been trying to find doctors who have experience with Crohns and Ulcerative Colitis and the newer therapies?

A: We have helped many over the years. It is our honor and

privilege. We look to bring in new therapies and make it easier for patients. We have good support with the patient ambassadors programs. If you are looking in the Kane County area, please feel free to make an appointment with us. I was the co-chair of the CCFA educational course a few years back and keep up to date on new treatments.

WWW.DEDUCTIBLESHOP.COM IT'S YOUR DEDUCTIBLE! Why pay thousands more for care, tests, repairs MEDICAL - AUTO - HOME - VET (PETS)

LOSE WEIGHT NOW! Connie, Batavia -- “Lost 44 lbs, with Dr. Mullick’s recommended system, and it stayed off.”* Jamie, Geneva -- “Lost 12 pound in my FIRST MONTH!! It really works.

Call for appointment 630-232-2025

Pay LESS for your colonoscopy or endoscopy.

Facility Fees are significantly lower. Cost of health care is going up. Pay less for your test. We are JCAHO certified.

Met your Deductible?? Get in before year end. Save on your deductible. Pay LESS. Heartburn, Diarrhea, Constipation, Liver Disease, Pancreatitis, Abdominal Pain, Colitis, Crohns/ Ulcerative Colitis, Gallbladder, Rectal Bleeding We have quality doctors and team on staff to serve you well. Its our honor to take care of you.

AMERICAN COLONOSCOPY AND ENDOSCOPY CENTER

2631 Williamsburg Ave 301. Geneva, IL. Call now for your appointment. 630-232-2025

IF YOU DO BREAST CANCER SCREENING, GET COLON CANCER SCREENING. It affects men and women BOTH and is the second leading cause of cancer deaths. It is VERY important to get this screening done - colon cancer is beatable and treatable if caught early enough through colon screening.

HEARTBURN PATIENTS PLEASE COME TO GET EVALUATED FOR PRECANCEROUS BARRETT’S; ESOPHAGEAL CANCER HAS INCREASED IN THE PAST 4 DECADES. FREE BOTTLE OF A USANA VITAMIN WITH COMPLETED COLONOSCOPY FOR NEW CLIENTS* *Some restrictions may apply. Available while supply lasts.

Dear Dr. Mullick, My family never had polyps or cancer.

Do I really need a colonoscopy? Jane Dear Jane: Great question. Colon cancer can affect anyone, regardless of family history. Everyone over age 45 should get a colonoscopy. If you have family history you should start at age 40 or 10 to 15 years before the youngest relative with a problem. Screening helps reduce risk.

Dr. Mullick, I’ve got bloating and gas. Sometimes I have diarrhea or nausea after I eat. Could I have food allergies?

My doctor said it’s IBS (irritable bowel). Kristen

Dear Kristen: Yes, food intolerances to lactose, sucrose and fructose are common, so you may need to avoid those. We have tests in the office for that. The symptoms of IBS and food allergies are often similar, so testing for food allergies is reasonable. We can test for that, too. We have helped many patients diagnosed with food allergies, so it’s not all IBS.

SAVE YOUR LIFE! TELLYOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS

Get colon cancer screening. Beatable, Treatable, Preventable in most situations.

S. from Geneva. “I am glad I had my colonoscopy done at the American Colonoscopy and Endoscopy center. I had some polyps removed and that will likely prevent a cancer.

The facility was wonderful and it saved me money.”

LET’S BEAT IT! 630-232-2025.

WORD SCRAMBLE: LHTEAH

HAETLELETH

SCLOTII

TBEASR

ONLOSPYCOOC

EPORSATT

BACK PAIN. CARPAL TUNNEL. WRIST PAIN. PAIN IN FOOT. PAIN IN LIMBS

PERIPHERAL NERVE TEST Certified center & trained team.

Call now for your clinic appointment and test date. 630-232-2025.

PPO, Medicare, and Cash payment accepted

*Results may not be typical.

ANSWERS: Health, Colitis, Colonoscopy, Telehealth, Breast, Prostate

DINING & ENTERTAINING AUGUST 2020

KCMAG_August_Ads.indd 21

21

7/29/20 11:00 AM

for All Accessible equipment, inclusion aides available in St. Charles parks

By Sara Carlson | Photos provided

A

s a founding member of the Fox Valley Special Recreation Association, the St. Charles Park District has offered inclusive opportunities for residents with special needs since 1976.

build friendships with other children in the class, and children without special needs learn to appreciate others who have different abilities,” Guizzetti-Reif says.

This partnership allows individuals — from children to adults — with special needs to participate in park district programs including preschool, sports, dance and more. Parents enrolling their child can request an inclusion aide to provide assistance, which is coordinated through FVSRA. All services are free to families.

“So many times people focus on what’s different instead of what they share in common,” she adds.

“But when these children get to know each other in class, they learn they have so many commonalities.”

The park district also provides dedicated space for FVSRA within some facilities and playgrounds with accessible equipment.

“Recreation is so important for everyone,” says Laura Rudow, superintendent of parks and planning, deputy director. “Our participation in FVSRA provides all individuals the many benefits of recreation, the opportunity to socialize and build friendships.”

When parents request an inclusion aide, FVSRA facilitates the process with parents to learn about the special need, taking into consideration the diagnoses, assessments, teacher evaluations and more. From there, the FVSRA will recommend the level of need for a specific program or activity.

“The goal is to let the child be as successful as possible in their environment,” says Recreation Supervisor Kara Guizzetti-Reif.

She stresses that parents should request an aide as early as possible. At the time of enrollment is best, or at least two weeks prior to the program start date.

Guizzetti-Reif has seen firsthand the many benefits of the FVSRA partnership in early childhood and youth programs.

“Children with special needs learn to socialize and

22

Over the years, Rudow says they have seen the needs of the special recreation programming change; currently, the largest area of growth is for adults. Individuals age 22 and older meet for regular programming in the Adult Day Break program, which is run by FVSRA staff but held at Pottawatomie Community Center and Sportsplex.

FVSRA also acts as a resource to the park district during the planning stages of a renovation, park or outdoor amenity. For example, if the park district is building an outdoor workout area, Rudow says they will lean on FVSRA for input on design and equipment in order to accommodate persons of all abilities.

Most recently, the park district received a $10,000 donation from the Kiwanis Club of St. Charles to help bring more accessible playground equipment to the community.

With the donation, the park district will install a wheelchair swing at Pottawatomie Park in the therapeutic, special needs playground, which will open next spring. River Bend Community Park, Renaux Manor Park, Delnor Woods Park and Langum Park, to name a few, have also received special needs swings in recent years from continued support from Kiwanis. ¢ For more information on the District’s special needs programs, call 630-513-6200 or visit www. stcparks.org/special-needs/, FVSRA at www.fvsra. org/ or Kiwanis at www.kiwanisofstcharles.org.

BACK TO SCHOOL AUGUST 2020

KCMAG_August_Ads.indd 22

7/29/20 11:00 AM

¢ SUBURBAN SUPERDAD ¢

MASK UP

Wearing a mask sets a good example, especially for the little ones watching

F

or years, the routine when leaving the house, or preparing to leave a party, or getting out of the car virtually anywhere, has been the same.

Three quick taps, one on each thigh and a third on the right side of the ol’ glutes. It’s called: “K-P-W.”

As in: The nerves in the fingertips will conclude that my keys, phone and wallet are safely ensconced in the pockets of my pants before walking out the door to life’s next great adventure. Or to get groceries. Whichever comes first.

However, lately, the universe has conspired to force a fourth initial onto the K-P-W acronym: the letter “M.” This one adds an entirely new wrinkle to the program. As you may have guessed, astute reader, the M stands for “Mask” and masks, as you also know, are made of fabric and seriously harder to detect with a simple tap to the hip pocket. Frustration bubbles up as one approaches the front doors of the local supermarket or Walmart and realizes the mask was absentmindedly left in the car, parked a half mile away across a broiling hot ocean of asphalt.

However, retrieve it, I must.

Sure, I could choose to be one of those people, standing at the front door and shouting at the attendant who gets paid peanuts to listen to me rail about my rights, the Constitution, the governor, America and some court case somewhere.

But as the owner of a slice of private property a few miles away from the aforementioned

supermarket, it just makes sense to let out a sigh, return to my vehicle, don the mask and walk back to the front door to resume my adventures, silently swearing for forgetting (again) and pledging to retire from my vocabulary any mention of the term “2020.”

(And, yes, having worn glasses since childhood will make that task much easier.)

Are masks a nuisance? Undoubtedly. An inconvenience? Unquestionably. Uncomfortable and look ridiculous (especially when riding in a car)? Indubitably.

But are they required in the moment? Most assuredly.

The evidence backing the benefits of wearing masks to slow the spread of COVID-19 has mounted this summer. The use of masks has been shown to reduce the reach and concentration of the aerosolized droplets that would otherwise carry the viral load sufficient to cause infection by everyone’s least favorite coronavirus. That alone should be sufficient to persuade us to mask up in public, to protect our friends and neighbors.

But even when their effectiveness may have seemed less apparent, my family and I still chose to wear them as soon as the signs were posted in the front entrances of stores and other buildings. Why? Because we all would expect the same courtesy.

I know, I know: In 2020, courtesy can seem to be in short supply.

But try to think of it this way: If you went over to someone’s house, and they asked you to take off your shoes and you refused, and then railed at

them about your rights to wear shoes, and how your feet might hurt without your shoes, what would that make you? Hint: The answer is not “a hero,” “inspiring” or “a patriot.”

Since I may request your guests park in a certain spot, or remove their shoes, or not run through the house when dripping wet, wearing a mask at the request of a fellow private property owner during a pandemic suddenly doesn’t seem like such a hard thing to do.

So, please: When going out, mask up.

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

BACK TO SCHOOL AUGUST 2020

KCMAG_August_Ads.indd 23

23

7/29/20 11:00 AM

LOCAL STUDENTS’ PERSPECTIVES For many families, going back to school is going to feel different this fall. KC Magazine wanted to hear how students, regardless of format, were looking at their return to learning. What better way to contemplate the upcoming year than by hearing what students themselves have to say?

WHEN IT COMES TO REOPENING, MANY VIEWPOINTS WERE TAKEN INTO CONSIDERATION WITH AN END GOAL OF SAFETY

T

hroughout Kane County, one of the main topics of conversation amid the pandemic has been going back to school. This affects so many people — students, parents, teachers and staff. In District 303, there have been many task forces at work, arranging and organizing the plans for the upcoming school year. These range from instruction to transportation and everything in between.

As a part of the Communication Task Force, I am able to hear everything that is being discussed and everything that will be sent to the families in the district about the reopening of schools.

This has shown me how hard the district is working and the

24

time and effort they are putting in to make this year the best possible. For example, the district sent out a survey to all the parents asking about the reopening of schools. They received numerous responses, and I was surprised by how many different opinions there are that the district needs to work with. Although not every outcome may be ideal, the district is trying to keep everyone healthy and safe. Remembering that the decisions being made are to get us through this pandemic is important. Not everything is permanent, and everyone is doing everything they can to help.

Whether we are able to go back to school in person or at home, I am looking forward to getting back to interacting with more people. Talking to teachers about our lives outside of school, and catching up with my friends and peers throughout the school day has been something I’ve missed. Additionally,

I’m excited for student council meetings, bowling practices and marching band (shoutout to the drum line!), even if it’s not the exact same way as previous years.

This school year will definitely require more patience and cooperation than ever, but with a diligent school administration and flexible community, this school year has great potential. ¢ Daniela Paladino is a rising junior at St. Charles East High School. She serves as a student representative on the D303 Reopen Communications Task Force. Daniela is the vice president of Student Council and enjoys being outside with her family.

BACK TO SCHOOL AUGUST 2020

KCMAG_August_Ads.indd 24

7/29/20 11:00 AM

WE FOLLOW THROUGH TO MAKE SURE YOU’RE COVERED ST. CHARLES SENIOR AND REOPENING TASK FORCE MEMBER ACKNOWLEDGES DIFFERENCES FOR THIS SCHOOL YEAR, HOPES FOR SENSE OF NORMALCY

A

s an incoming senior, I have been especially curious as to how my last year of high school will play out given the current pandemic. I have been speculating for months about what my final year will look like. When I was invited in early June to be a part of the District 303 Reopen Communications Task Force, I felt extremely honored to represent the voice of the students; additionally, I felt privileged to be able to watch the behind-the-scenes of the decision-making process. As student body president, I felt an elevated sense of responsibility to advocate for my peers during the meetings. It has been remarkable to see how all our thoughts have come together and witness the clever ideas of our group; for example, we used social media to direct people to the most relevant information.

It is evident from the weekly meetings that these individuals have been working tirelessly to come up with a plan that is suitable to everyone’s needs. This is not an easy job by any

Call today and see how much you can save!

847.640.0402

Harry Stout

Your Local Agent 11 S 2ND AVE STE 3 ST CHARLES, IL 60174 HSTOUT@FARMERSAGENT.COM https://agents.farmers.com/hstout

means. Sometimes it’s easy to forget how much diligence is required in order to form a successful plan — and I’ve only observed the communication aspect!

Traditionally, seniors enjoy celebrating many “lasts” — whether that’s football games, homecoming, spirit week, sports or club meetings — and milestones like prom and graduation.

The class of 2021 will definitely have a senior year that is one for the books, just probably not in the way we were expecting. There’s no question that school won’t look the same for a while, but the measures that are going to be taken are necessary for our safety and I will ardently support them regardless. Despite all the craziness in the world right now, it’s important that we prioritize academics and continue to make fun memories together. That’s what high school is all about! Just because there are more rules and regulations doesn’t mean that we can’t still have an enjoyable school year.

¢ Jessica Winkates is a rising senior who is a Co-President of Key Club and the Student Body President at St. Charles North High School. She is a part of the D303 Reopen Communications Task Force to provide a student perspective.

$5

per vehicle S T. C H A R L E S , I L L I N O I S

Reservations Required • Parking starts at 6pm

Thursdays • 7-8:30pm July 16-August 20 For more info and to reserve a spot:

stcparks.org/drivein-concerts

In the event of inclement weather, the concert will be canceled. Staff will make that decision at 4pm and post an announcement on Facebook. Musicians are subject to change without notice.

SM-CL1796052

BACK TO SCHOOL AUGUST 2020

KCMAG_August_Ads.indd 25

25

7/29/20 11:00 AM

RULE the

SCHOOL

Whether in person, hybrid or remote learning, school routines are a must

By Hannah Hoffmeister

F

or both parents and students, starting a new school year inevitably brings a lot of feelings: excitement, anticipation and sometimes a little anxiety. And this year, whether you’re getting an education from home, school or a mix of both, going back to school feels decidedly different.

BRIDGE WALK K

Bridging the distance TO livingwe ell

But even so, there are ways to get your kids back in a school mindset. Here are some recommendations from Debbie Conley, Licensed Clinical Social Worker and therapist based in Geneva, and Kristy Gonyon, Licensed Professional Counselor and Dance/Movement Therapist at Intermission Therapies in Geneva.

¢ TALKING ABOUT THE SCHOOL YEAR IN ADVANCE Kids aren’t huge fans of unwanted surprises. With this in mind and considering your child’s personality and developmental stage, both Conley and Gonyon recommend picking a time to discuss expectations for the upcoming school year. Gonyon recommends talking about what

a brand

new virtual e vent!

Spirit. your place. your pace. Walking together in mind, body & S

REGISTER ER TODAY! Join us as LivingWell Cancer Resource Center’s Bridge Walk and Northwestern Medicine’s Cancer Survivors’ Day Celebration Event partner for a brand new virtual event.

Friday, September 25 Visit giving.nm.org/2020BridgeWalk and register or donate today!

september

25 2020

SM-CL1800773

26

BACK TO SCHOOL AUGUST 2020

KCMAG_August_Ads.indd 26

7/29/20 11:00 AM

will be the same, what will be different and emphasizing that “as a family we’re working together to find a way to put our best foot forward.”

“It’s okay to say as a parent, ‘I don’t know all the answers, but we’re always going to keep you informed,’” Conley says. ¢ STARTING YOUR BACK-TO-SCHOOL ROUTINE EARLY Going to bed earlier, establishing a morning routine and gradually reducing screen time — things you might do before any school year — are all ways you can start to transition out of summer mode. Conley recommends reviewing skills like whole body listening and giving respect to your teachers.

If your child’s school district is using a hybrid model, consider creating a visual calendar — physical and at the child’s level if they’re younger, digitally and on the phone if they’re older — to see what’s happening on which day.

Debbie Conley’s 12-year-old daughter, Raya, embraces Tillie, a purebred collie that’s in training to be a therapy dog. Photo courtesy of Anne Linder.

“If we’re throwing a hybrid school year into it on top of the craziness already going on, it’s going to be super, super important that they have something visual,” says Conley.

Adding a learning element to something your kids already enjoy — for example, researching recipes and cooking something together — is another way to get kids re-engaged and ready for learning. As libraries start to open up, using those resources can be very helpful, Gonyon adds. ¢ REMEMBERING WE’RE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER Validate your kids’ worries, but don’t project your own, both women say.

Kids pick up on emotional cues and absorb negative talk, Conley says, so being flexible and remembering there’s not a one-size-fits-all solution will help everyone’s adjustment.

“Being anxious and nervous as a parent is a very real experience, but we don’t (want to) add that extra

BOOKS B worry on to the kids because they’re already worried,” Gonyon says. She recommends voicing stressors to other parents or getting involved with parent forums on Facebook or within your school district.

R Recommendations for younger kids

 BUBBLE GUM BRAIN by Julia Cook  A LITTLE SPOT STAYS HOME: A STORY ABOUT VIRUSES AND SAFE DISTANCING by Diane Alber

If kids are nervous about the school year, reinforce that any new procedures are for safety, Gonyon says. You can expect some normal disruption in sleep and eating habits or overall mood, but if things seem too overwhelming, then consider adding support from a mental health professional, she says.

 BREATHE LIKE A BEAR by Kira Willey

“Know we’re all doing this together,” says Conley.

 THE COLOR MONSTER: A STORY ABOUT EMOTIONS by Anna Llenas

 I WILL BE OKAY by Laurie Wright  A LITTLE SPOT OF ANXIETY: A STORY ABOUT CALMING YOUR WORRIES by Diane Alber

SM-CL1798106

BACK TO SCHOOL AUGUST 2020

KCMAG_August_Ads.indd 27

27

7/29/20 11:01 AM

TRENDY TIMES 28

PEEKABOO HIGHLIGHTS, PERMS AND MORE — KIDS’ HAIR TRENDS YOU DIDN’T EXPECT

By Allison Bills

own hands.

ith salons shut down for several months, many people took cutting their hair — and their kids’ hair — into their

“We had a lot of do-it-at-homers, so I was doing a lot of repairs to start,” says hair veteran Drew Wellman, who currently has a chair at Wicked Shears in Geneva.

Those who chose not to chop off their own locks came flocking to salons after they were allowed to reopen. Things have begun to level out since the original rush, but many have changed their outlook on hairstyles moving forward.

“People are definitely trying out new styles after having to grow their hair out completely because of not getting haircuts,” says Sarah Williams, owner and operator of Fade N Flow in St. Charles. “Or they’re cutting it off and liking the shorter better. I’m definitely seeing people change it up.”

While many traditional styles are still popular, some contemporary ones are emerging for kids and teens with the school year right around the corner. Right now, it’s all about pops of color for girls.

“Kids are definitely getting into colors,” Wellman, who has 27 years of experience, says.

“It’s not necessarily fashion colors but pastel colors for the kids.”

Wellman has seen lots of girls in elementary and middle school leaning toward peekaboo highlights, which are small pops of color that are visible when hair moves or is tied up. Wellman says pastel colors and purple are extremely trendy, but colors vary based on skin tone.

BACK TO SCHOOL AUGUST 2020

KCMAG_August_Ads.indd 28

7/29/20 11:01 AM

GETTING BUSINESS BACK TO BUSINESS Another prominent trend for teens, balayages aren’t going away anytime soon. Balayages give hair a sun-kissed look with color that does not go all the way to the roots, making it much less maintenance than traditional highlights.

While girls of all ages are converging on salons to get them, Wellman does emphasize they are a lot more work and pricier than a simple peekaboo highlight. Balayages generally have to be redone every eight to twelve weeks.

“It’s something that takes money and time,” Wellman says. “It’s not something that happens overnight, and it’s not cheap to do it.”

For girls not looking to add color, Wellman says short haircuts have been in style heading into the school year.

“It’s fun, fast and easy, especially for the summer,” he adds, noting beach waves can add some texture to a short hairstyle.

Boys, on the other hand, aren’t dipping into different colors. But they are expanding their hair repertoire, experimenting with some new styles and adding some flair to classic cuts.

Fades with a pompadour on top have been popular for years, and that hasn’t changed. Williams says these days, most guys are leaning toward the side part, which can be adjusted and styled in many ways.

“The fade is always going to be a classic and it’s never going to die,” Wellman adds. “Everyone wants it really tight on the sides with a little bit of hair on the top so you can do something with it.”

Guys are starting to add a little flair to their hair, too — in the form of male perms.

Safety First

HAND SANITIZER • BRANDED APPAREL PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS DISPOSABLE 3-PLY MASKS • BRANDED FACE MASKS

We Are Real People.

“Boys like the short, shaved sides with the curly tops,” Williams says, noting her son actually has that hairstyle with naturally curly hair.

“Some of these kids are trying to accomplish that look with a perm.”

Dedicated to Helping You!

Wellman recommends any guys interested in trying a perm to grow their hair out at least 3-4 inches to accommodate a rod. In addition, they generally have to be redone every four to eight months.

GET FULLY PROMOTED TODAY! VISIT US AT WWW.FULLYPROMOTED.COM/IL-STCHARLES #FULLYPROMOTEDSTRONG

Fully ll Promoted ed - Fox River iv Valley alle 216 South Kirk Road, St. Charles, IL 60174 630-587-8700

“I really think the guys are putting more effort into hair than they have in a long time,” Wellman says, adding that things like Nickelodeon and Disney Channel have brought it back to a more prominent style. “That surfer boy look has never really died, but it’s something that’s definitely a more popular look than it was before.”

Whether it be because of a botched haircut or grown-out locks, this is the time to let kids try something new.

Let them get a perm. Put that pink in their hair or chop some off. In these unprecedented times, anything goes.

Skyline Tree Service was established in 1988 and is family owned and operated. After more than 30 years of service, we still hold strong to our original commitment to excellence to provide our customers with quality tree care services.

Removal • Emergency Services • Tree Trimming • Stump Removal • Tree Risk Assessment • Plant Health Care • Certified Arborists R E S I D E N T I A L , CO M M E R C I A L & M U N I C I PA L 6 3 0 - 58 4 - 2 2 21 | WWW.SKYLINETREESVC.COM BACK TO SCHOOL AUGUST 2020

KCMAG_August_Ads.indd 29

29

7/29/20 11:01 AM

I

f working from home started as a temporary solution but became your new normal, it may be time to carve out a special spot to make

your work surroundings more efficient and conducive to success.

30

HOME & LIFESTYLE AUGUST 2020

KCMAG_August_Ads.indd 30

7/29/20 11:01 AM

Housed in a Charming 8000 Sq. Ft. 100 Year Old Barn

Multi Dealer Market

OPTIMIZE YOUR OFFICE SPACE

SM-CL1797311

Wed & Fri 10-5, Thur 12-7, Sat 9-4, Sun 9-3, Closed Mon & Tues

Shoppers will delight in our area’s widest selection of barnwood furniture, vintage, primitive & modern boutique rolled into one.

Farmhouse furniture and decor, boutique style clothing, jewelry, man-cave, boho, MCM, antiques, gourmet goods and gifts. Also - a beautiful courtyard you can rent for any occasion.

475 Army Trail Rd • Bartlet IL 60103 630-326-8858 • info@prestigecreativemarkets.com

How to set up a better workspace k att h home

Serving the Fox Valley and Surrounding Area

By Diane Krieger Spivak

“The home office is kind of a cool idea,” says Bret Boyles, general manager at Slaten Residential Construction in St. Charles. (You may remember the company under the McDowell name. Slaten took over when the McDowells retired.)

“I’m getting one to two calls a week from people wanting to convert more living space.”

An underused room — say, a dining room, spare bedroom or basement — can be transformed into a home office with a little planning.

“A lot of times people’s doorways

are open, so perhaps they may want to put a door on the opening,” says Boyles. Conventional doors or saloon-style doors can close off a room, providing privacy for home workers, especially those with children. In the case of larger than normal openings, consider a sliding barn door, a style that’s trending right now.

Boyles also suggests looking into upgrading electrical work “to make sure outlets not only have a receptacle for plugs but also a USB charger and computer access.”

Reliable Heating & Cooling Services for When It Counts

Why McNally’s?

Honest, upfront, competitive pricing 10-year limited labor warranty on installs, 2-year limited warranty on repairs All work thoroughly tested Professional, punctual and courteous service techs

FREE ESTIMATE

6 3 0 . 3 6 3 . 9 0 6 7 | mcnallyhvac.com SM-CL1797288

HOME & LIFESTYLE AUGUST 2020

KCMAG_August_Ads.indd 31

31

7/29/20 11:01 AM

Open Daily Advance Reservations Only

swansonpool.org

Activity Pool (Zero Depth Entry) 50-meter Lap Pool w/Diving Boards Lily Pad Rope Walk Waterslides & Drop Slides Sand/Water Play Area Family Restrooms

Fee per 2.5-hour Time Slot: Resident $6 / Nonresident $9 In Pottawatomie Park 8 North Avenue, St. Charles • 630-584-3314

tter Cove Splash Park

Open Daily Advance Reservations Only

ottercove.org

Only SPLASH PARK amenities available:

Splash Pad Spray Loops Dumping Buckets Spray Cannons Water Play Features Sand Play Area

Fee per 1.5-hour Time Slot: Resident $3 / Nonresident $5 In James O. Breen Community Park 3615 Campton Hills Rd, St. Charles • 630-513-4377

Adding built-in shelving can organize office supplies and save space.

JOIN US FOR OUR

Grand Opening SAT., AUGUST 29TH

Converting basement space or adding a room would be more involved, requiring the addition of heat and air conditioning, walls and flooring. “You can make it as elaborate as you have money for,” says Boyles.

Next, think about color, which can actually make a difference in your workday productivity.

SM-CL1797506

At Sherwin-Williams Paint Store in St. Charles, the paint experts note that grays are still popular, as are shades of blue, which have a calming effect. While some prefer darker spaces to work in, most want brighter, more natural colors. A red wall accent can be rejuvenating, too.

32

211 S LINCOLNWAY ST., NORTH AURORA 630-296-8470 Follow us on

#thevintagemarketplaceco

Greiges, which are a combination of gray and beige shades, are also more popular due to their warmth and the fact that they are more compatible with other room elements.

N

ow that you’ve gotten your new home office ready for work, here are a few tips from Flexjobs.com on working successfully from home:

¢ REDUCE DISTRACTIONS. Get everyone in the house on board with your need for privacy while you work. Remove temptations like open tabs on your computer (yes, this means Facebook). Keep TV out of your workspace and a pad of paper near your computer to jot down extraneous non-work “to do” thoughts that you can get to later on. ¢ DEVELOP A ROUTINE. Start each day the same way, and at the end of the day, make a to-do list for tomorrow. Then change your clothes to mark the end of your day. ¢ USE TOOLS. Make friends with your calendar, and consider trying a few new apps, which are available for just about everything: productivity, breaks, scheduling, etc. Use time blocking to get specific tasks done faster.

HOME & LIFESTYLE AUGUST 2020

KCMAG_August_Ads.indd 32

7/29/20 11:01 AM

NEW OUTLET for the arts

t

he options are endless for Trend & Relic, a new boutique in St. Charles. The name allows for both new and vintage or antique looks, and the store’s physical building, located at 1501 Indiana Ave., has room to expand.

There’s something for everyone, whether that’s midcentury modern decor, farmhouse styles, furniture or hand-poured candles and soaps.

“Everybody is truly bringing their A-game,” Custardo says. “It’s so exciting — I took a walk through our shop last night and looked at it as a customer and not the owner, and I thought, ‘This is a really fun shop.’”

By Hannah Hoffmeister Photos provided

“They’re getting to scratch an itch that they’re not doing at their other places,” she says. “They’re getting really creative.”

Trend & Relic hopes to start partnering with artists in the Tri-Cities. Custardo envisions wine and cheese kickoff parties that mark the start of each artist’s time being featured in the store, allowing Trend & Relic to “really bring in and feature the talent in our community in our store.”

“I hope St. Charles is going to be pretty excited to have a store like ours,” co-owner Karri Custardo says. “Whenever somebody walks into the store, the feedback we keep hearing is that this has a great vibe.”

With soft lighting and exposed brick, Trend & Relic’s building feels really inviting, fun and warm, Custardo says. A St. Charles resident, she and business partner Heather Corcoran bonded over both owning vintage homes. That love of all things vintage led to a shared vision for Trend & Relic, which currently has 14 dealers with plans to expand.

Trend & Relic in St. Charles focuses on mix of new and vintage items for your home

Corcoran also mentioned allowing creative classes, saying Trend & Relic hopes “to be a creative outlet for people in the arts.”

“One of the things I try to focus on in my section is finding artisan, handmade items that are unique and funky,” says Corcoran, whose degree in arts led her to work in Germany with Puma and in California with a record label. “Along with those things, I like finding interesting pieces with a past.”

Custardo appreciates that the dealers who already have dedicated followings at other boutiques are experimenting with new styles at Trend & Relic.

For the two women, this summer has been quite a busy and exciting time, especially around their midJuly opening celebration. “(We) are both so excited to bring a store like ours to Saint Charles,” says Custardo. “We’ve had a ball putting it together and creating such a unique shop here in town.”  TREND & RELIC 1501 Indiana Ave., St. Charles 630-803-5253 | Trend + Relic on Facebook HOME & LIFESTYLE AUGUST 2020

KCMAG_August_Ads.indd 33

33

7/29/20 11:01 AM

Tales from a

C I M E D N PA A

s I shake my head in disapproval of not properly managing the submission deadline for this article, I can’t help but reflect on interesting behaviors that seem to have popped up during this pandemic.

34

The COVID-19 pandemic itself is certainly no laughing matter, and regardless of your political orientation, all of us should be concerned about our country’s failure to better control the spread and to “flatten the curve” of infection. I pray for those infected and am grateful to those, including my wife and son, whose work puts them in harm’s way during these times. Wry reflection in stressful times, however, is a common coping mechanism and one I’m no stranger to. Allow me to share a few observations on my way to an investment recommendation.

As a backdrop, at 5:30 a.m. Thursday, March 12, I checked in at a major hospital in Chicago for back surgery. The employee processing my intake was skimming a notice he had just received while cradling his first cup of coffee and trying to pay me the appropriate attention. After a moment, he looked up and let me know that starting immediately there would be a revision in policy: Only two visitors allowed per

patient. Sometime while in recovery, that policy went from two visitors to zero as the hospital scrambled to roll out new protocols to address the virus. Observing a nervous staff, I was anxious to get home and able to negotiate my release at the end of the following day.

Gina, my wife, was not allowed past the guard station on the first floor, so I had to make my own way to her after growing weary of waiting for help to do so. It was a good idea to get home but not the wisest method of exit.

Next came the COVID-19 market correction, during which investors saw the fastest drop in history. Instead of convalescing the next few weeks, our commitment to serve our clients found me at the office each day working until late at night. We also decided it wise to implement a work-from-home policy for the team to protect staff and reduce risk. For most of the next several months, there were only two heartbeats in a building that normally has five active businesses

BUSINESS & CIVIC AUGUST 2020

KCMAG_August_Ads.indd 34

7/29/20 11:01 AM

operating out of it — mine and my rescue dog Ivy’s. We opened the lobby in the morning to allow mail delivery and then locked up at the end of each day. At times I felt like I was preparing to star in a sequel to the movie “I Am Legend.”

Fortunately, in June the curve in Illinois had flattened, and the team returned to the office. Things were not back to normal, however. Before I knew it, we had three sanitization stations throughout our office and a timed aerosol dispenser was set up to spray a mist of disinfectant throughout the area where our desks are. As absurd as I found the president’s comment regarding the ingestion of disinfectant, I swear I found myself inhaling a mist every 15 minutes that surely has been killing 99.9% of household germs in my body. Long-term effects? TBD. I can assure you that our team has not cornered the market on quirks. Sheltering in place seems to be fertile ground for curious behaviors — both good and bad. More time with family and reflection on what is really important in life has been a plus for many. Occasionally, however, some may find themselves obsessing over things that may not be productive, like getting into a competition with friends to find more ways to cook with newfound, homemade sourdough — or fixating on your portfolio.

This spring’s market drop has been unsettling and caused many to revisit their risk appetite. Reviewing risk tolerance and objectives with your financial advisor is healthy. Obsessing over investment holdings and portfolio performance is not. Our current recovery is uneven among market segments with continued volatility likely. Focus on your underlying investment strategy and be patient with high-quality holdings.

Stay disciplined, and we’ll get through all of this safely!

This material is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal or tax advice and is not intended to replace the advice of a qualified attorney, tax advisor, or plan provider.

Photo by Indre Cantero

FILE# 3177994.1

¢ Tom McCartney and Sharon Piet are teammates at My Advisor & Planner and are Registered Representatives and Investment Adviser Representatives with M Securities. Securities and Investment Advisory Services are offered through M Holdings Securities, Inc., a Registered Broker/Dealer and Investment Adviser, Member FINRA/ SIPC. My Advisor & Planner is independently owned and operated.

Tom and Sharon can be reached at info@mapyourfuture.net, at 630-457-4068, or you can visit them at www.mapyourfuture.net.

BUSINESS & CIVIC AUGUST 2020

KCMAG_August_Ads.indd 35

35

7/29/20 11:01 AM

Q&A ‘A SNAPSHOT OF THE WORLD’

A Q&A with Taylor Egan, the new executive director at Water Street Studios, about art and why it’s especially important now

By Hannah Hoffmeister | Photos By Kathy Green, RCG Photography

K

C Magazine sat down with Taylor Egan, who started in June as the executive director of Water Street Studios in Batavia. This interview was edited lightly for length.

36

been in the Fox Valley area for 15 years. As far as hobbies go, we do a lot of bike riding. We have a fire pit at home, and that tends to be what we do: sit around the fire pit and have some good family time. That’s probably our happy place. In

¢ KC MAGAZINE: Tell us a little about yourself — kids, hobbies, what should we know?

terms of travel, we do love a long road trip. We

TAYLOR EGAN: I have two kids: one son who is now 11, and one daughter who is now 14. We’ve

Yellowstone, a population of 75 — it was the

went to Silver Gate, Montana, a mile outside of most quintessential mountain town!

BUSINESS & CIVIC AUGUST 2020

KCMAG_August_Ads.indd 36

7/29/20 11:01 AM

The next

ACTIVATE THE ALLEY

unveiling, on Aug. 18, will reveal the collaborative mural of TriCity Family Services and artist Maureen Gasek.

The ARTIST COLLECTIVE GROUP SHOW is shown at THE DEMPSEY FAMILY GALLERY at WATER STREET STUDIOS.

¢ KC: What are your earliest memories of being interested in art?

TE: I stumbled upon an art history class (at DePaul University). And it was the art history professor who just spoke with such passion about the subject that it made me fall in love with it. The fact that art is so tied to history, to culture, to politics — it really encapsulates everything that’s going on in that particular time. It’s very much a snapshot of the world around it, and so I loved that aspect of art history.

¢ KC: What do you love about Water Street Studios?

TE: I love the community aspect of this, the fact that you have artists in the studios creating, and then you have the product in the front that is available for everyone to experience. It’s a very unique, creative environment. I think that’s what Water Street offers people in the community is this time to take a breath and hit the reset button and get in touch with their creative side.

¢ KC: When we talked last, you talked about some upcoming events. Can you tell me more about those?

TE: We are still hoping at some point to do an outdoor art market with live music, artist demos, art sales.

We are trying to see if that’s going to be possible, but the way we had envisioned it was over a three-day period in the fall, but we’ll see how that pans out.

Our anniversary show is actually centered around art that’s been created during COVID. It’s called “CREATE-IN-PLACE,” so it’s artists who have created

BUSINESS & CIVIC AUGUST 2020

KCMAG_August_Ads.indd 37

37

7/29/20 11:01 AM

“CREATE-IN-PLACE” will be available for viewing this fall.

Water Street Studios is planning a closing celebration in October.

The ARTIST COLLECTIVE GROUP SHOW is shown at THE DEMPSEY FAMILY GALLERY at WATER STREET STUDIOS.

during the shelter-in-place and how it’s shaped their work and how maybe it differs from what they’ve created before. ¢ KC: Tell me more about Activate the Alley.

TE: I would like to see this become the art district of Batavia. Activate the Alley was the first step of trying to create a space of public art to increase that foot traffic. It paired nonprofits with artists, and what’s really been cool to see is these nonprofits have been matched with artists who have a really personal connection to their mission. And I think you can definitely tell that connection in the murals. ¢ KC: Why do you think it’s important for people to support or engage with art during this time?

TE: Art, at its core, speaks to what’s going on around

38

us. It allows for artists to be expressive, and it allows those who maybe are not artists themselves to experience it. We have a lot going on in our world, and I think art right now is an outlet for so many to say so many important things that need to be said, whether it’s about COVID, about politics, about religion — it can all be said through art.

Even for those who may not create art, it introduces the opportunity to have important discussions. So when you’re in the moment in the gallery, it’s going to introduce the possibility of conversation that you would not maybe have if you hadn’t experienced that moment. I think we learn a lot from those moments.

I think art also can sometimes be challenging. You may walk in and see a piece that maybe your own worldview doesn’t quite align with what that piece

is saying. And it might make you uncomfortable, because art has this way of initiating an emotional response. That discomfort is so important because from that discomfort comes really important conversation between people who have different worldviews.

I think that’s really the key right now, that people with different worldviews have conversations together. We’re a very divided society, and I think art is one common denominator — not that we all experience it the same way, but it’s available for all of us to experience.

COLIN SHERRELL'S GALLERY "THE JOURNEY" is shown at the CHICAGO CAPITAL GALLERY at WATER STREET STUDIOS.

¢ KC: Is there anything you’d like to add?

TE: These organizations are so important, so I would really encourage people to reach out to organizations like ours and really support them at this time. When we do come out of this, we need to make sure that these places are still around because they serve an important purpose.

BUSINESS & CIVIC AUGUST 2020

KCMAG_August_Ads.indd 38

7/29/20 11:01 AM

Home Is Where the Hearth Is

Visit our show room to see over 40 burning models on display. See a wide selection of electric, gas, and wood fireplaces designed to enhance the warmth and beauty of your home. You’ll also find a full line of mantels, fireplace screens, and hearth accessories to complete the picture.

Sales • Service • Installation

1255 Bowes Road, Elgin (847) 741-6464 • thehouseoffireplaces.com Monday-Friday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. | Thursday 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. | Saturday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

KCMAG_August_Ads.indd 39

7/29/20 11:01 AM

Expand your living space

at Cooper Woods

Cooper Woods provides a premium home building location with easy access to all the amenities offered in Geneva. Custom homes starting in the $900,000’s. Schedule a new home consultation today and make your dream home a reality.

• Walking distance to downtown

restaurants and shopping • Premier Geneva #304 School District • Less than a mile to the Metra station

• Ranch and two story elevations • Fully custom homes with gourmet

kitchens and full basements • Three and four bedroom plans

630.232.4000 | HavlicekBuilders.com

KCMAG_August_Ads.indd 40

7/29/20 11:01 AM