Local photographer captures magnificent mayhem in family photos - pets included Page 28
Get ready for fall with these simple DIY crafts Page 24
Let local resources help you overcome everyday parenting challenges Page 16
Eateries and parks where pets are welcome • Page 8
August is here, bringing a new school year, packed schedules and—if we’re lucky—a bit of balance.
As a parent of four kids and a giant chocolate lab who believes she’s a lapdog, I’m well-versed in the chaos and confusion of everyday life with children and furbabies running amok. In this issue of Kane County Magazine, we’re digging into that unique bond between pets and family.
From tips for those first days with a new pet (page 36) to local resources that can lighten the parenting load (page 16), we’ve got you covered. If you’re considering adopting, turn to page 12 to learn about the tireless work of our shelters and rescues. Don’t underestimate the impact of therapy animals (page 26), and discover how your family can get involved in helping others on page 32.
Already excited for fall? Clear off the kitchen table and make these simple DIY
crafts a family affair (page 24). And if you’re looking for a few more reasons to get out before summer’s end, check out our list of affordable, fun-filled events on page 34.
With this edition of Kane County Magazine, we are thrilled to help you explore and enjoy all the family-friendly fun our communities have to offer.
Don’t forget to check out our new website at www.shawlocal.com/kc-magazine. As always, thank you for reading!
Kelley White, Editor
Professional photographer Laura Gampfer is an expert at catching the special bond between families and their pets. Learn more on page 28!
Next month: The September issue features a delicious look at food and drink around Kane County.
Kane County Chronicle & Northwest Herald Laura Shaw 630-709-4497 lshaw@shawmedia.com
EDITOR Kelley White kwhite@shawmedia.com
DESIGNER
Julie Barichello 815-431-4072 jbarichello@shawmedia.com
Kane County Chronicle & Niche Publishing Tricia Walter 630-345-0066 twalter@shawmedia.com
CORRESPONDENTS
Jonathan Bilyk, Patricia MacMillan, Vicki Martinka Petersen, Melissa Rubalcaba Riske, Grace Rosati, Diane Krieger Spivak and Chris Walker
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 7717 S. Route 31, Crystal Lake, IL 60014
8 PET-FRIENDLY SPACES
Don’t miss out on these eateries and parks with your best friend in tow
12 FOREVER FRIENDS
40 PATIO PERFECTION
Check out these local restaurants for dining al fresco
Learn more about local animal rescues and shelters connecting families
16 NEVER ALONE
Parents: check in on these local resources
helping you overcome everyday challenges
18 RAISING THE BAR
Small retailers offer high-quality food options for healthier pets
22 FAMILY FITNESS
Stay active and healthy as school starts up again
24 FROM GHOSTS TO GRATITUDE
Get ready for fall with simple, DIY crafting ideas
26 HEALING WITH PETS
Animals provide therapy and joy to a variety of patients
28 CHARM & CHAOS
Laura Gampfer captures the magnificent mayhem of family photos – pets included
32 GIVE TOGETHER, GROW TOGETHER
Families are making a big difference with local volunteerism
34 AFFORDABLE, FAMILYFRIENDLY FUN
Don’t miss these special events as summer ends
36 BRINGING HOME A NEW PET
7 tips to create a well-adjusted and welcoming space for your newest addition
38 FROM SUMMER TO FALL
Answering the season’s favorite question with Suburban Superdad
44 FUTURE OF DONATING
Will the One Big Beautiful Bill increase charitable giving?
46 HOMEBUYING MADE EASY
Experience sets the Cassandra Bajak Group apart in mortgage lending
47 CALENDAR OF EVENTS
Don’t miss these special dates in August!
48 BEYOND PHYSIO PHYSICAL THERAPY & WELLNESS
Dr. Linnea Omholt is here to help, from strength training to postpartum recovery and more
49 GRAB A BOOKMARK
Geneva Public Library recommends these titles for August
50 BEST DAY HOUSECLEANING
Helping hands free your time and keep your home pristine
51 GREENFIELDS OF GENEVA
Where seniors find understanding, respect and support
52 GOOD FOR YOUR BODY AND MIND
Let nature do the work with the St. Charles Park District
54 ARTIST OF THE MONTH
Lisa Youngdahl creates detailed worlds, starting with the tip of a pencil
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Pack up your pooch and explore these eateries and parks
By Patricia MacMillan
provided by Elder + Oat, Old Republic Kitchen + Bar and Fox Valley Park District
It’s ‘the dog days of summer,” and we mean that quite literally.
Dogs are welcome throughout Kane County, and these eateries and parks will have you and your best friend living your best lives during this sun-filled time of year.
l Preservation
513 S. 3rd St., Geneva
The outdoor scene at this downtown Geneva restaurant is unmatched, and dogs are welcome along the left-hand side of the huge patio.
l Two Brothers Roundhouse
205 N. Broadway Ave., Aurora
True to its name, this iconic restaurant takes the form of a circle complete with a courtyard that welcomes patrons and their pooches.
l Old Republic Kitchen + Bar
155 S. Randall Road, Elgin
Dogs are welcome at this restaurant’s expansive outdoor space, which
features a menu of American favorites and events like live music and bingo, all summer long.
l Elder + Oat
124 W. Main St., West Dundee
Furry friends are welcome at this coffee shop’s back deck, and baristas will gladly make a pup cup of whipped cream for all who stop by.
l Town House Café
105 N. 2nd Ave., St. Charles
Make plans for you and your favorite four-legged reading buddy to do some al fresco dining at this charming spot inspired by the bookshop next door.
l Bark Park
40W101 W. Main St., Batavia
Visitors to this space within West Main Community Park will find a small pavilion, agility equipment, wooded areas and even a swimming pond for water-loving pups.
l Gregory Island Dog Park
100 E. Indian Trail Road, North Aurora
This picturesque spot smack-dab in the Fox River features two areas, one for small dogs and another for larger breeds. Visitors should note that a perimeter fence does not block access to the river in the section for bigger dogs.
l Stuart Sports Complex Dog Park
39W546 Baseline Road, Sugar Grove
Dogs can get all their energy out at this 15-acre fenced complex, which is divided into two sections—one for large dogs 35 pounds and over, and another for small breeds.
l Fox River Bluff West Forest Preserve
5N753 Illinois State Route 31, St. Charles
Enjoy nature together at the off-leash dog area within this forest preserve. As many as three dogs per person are allowed.
l Aurora Woods
40W032 Hankes Road, Aurora
An ecological treasure trove, this forest preserve features wetlands, prairie plants, and an area set aside for dogs to romp and play.
l East Side Sports Complex
3565 Legacy Blvd., St. Charles
The dog park at this large complex includes interactive play features perfect for Fido. Visitors can access the space via the parking lot off Commerce Drive from Kautz Road.
l River Bend Community Park
6N517 Geneva Ave., St. Charles
Dogs can run, jump and socialize at this community spot, which even features a doggy water fountain for those who work up a thirst.
l James O. Breen Community Park
Campton Hills and Peck Roads, St. Charles
This off-leash dog spot is more than two and a half acres, and features activity stations and specially-made equipment for play.
By Jonathan Bilyk • Photos provided by Anderson Humane
s Dean Daubert sees it, few experiences in life can bring more joy than the moment someone brings home a new furry friend.
“Everybody that has a dog or cat in their life is better for it,” he said.
And as CEO of Anderson Humane, Daubert certainly knows there is no shortage of opportunities for families to add that kind of joy to their households and their hearts.
Since 1966, South Elgin-based Anderson has helped unite pets with families in Kane County as one of the region’s most prominent pet shelters and animal rescue organizations.
That work over those decades has given Daubert and others on the Anderson team front-row seats to thousands of stories every year, in which an adopted dog, cat or other non-human addition to the family enriches the family’s existence in ways simple or even more profound.
Daubert says one of his favorites is the story of Alanna, a young local woman who struggled for years with functional neurological disorder, a condition that left her with “debilitating anxiety and non-epileptic seizures.”
The condition reportedly caused her to struggle in school and in maintaining relationships.
That changed in 2023, however, when she met and adopted Dahlia, a dog from Anderson Humane. From the start, Daubert said, Alanna reported that Dahlia seemed to anticipate her needs and provided a calming, reassuring presence that helped Alanna heal and overcome, for the first time. Alanna reportedly used her newfound mental and emotional balance to turn around her academic career, “reclaiming control of her life.”
“Dahlia wasn’t just a dog,” Anderson Humane wrote about Alanna’s story. “She was the reason Alanna found hope again.”
In addition to facilitating adoptions of dogs, cats and a variety of other animals, Anderson, through its staff and team of more than 1,100 volunteers, also provides lowcost veterinary care and other animal-related services for both domestic and wild creatures.
In 2024 alone, Anderson reported adopting out more than 3,800 pets, including 972 puppies, 742 adult dogs and 790 cats.
And the agency continued to build its strong and growing pet foster program. In 2024, Anderson reported 2,639 animals cared for in 693 foster homes, offering dogs and cats the opportunity to trade Anderson’s kennels for a loving family environment as they await their “forever homes,” as Daubert and others who work in the animal welfare field term it.
Today, 56% of the animals in Anderson’s care at any given moment are housed with fosters, Daubert said.
“The program has been a tremendous success for us, as it has incrementally grown for years,” he said.
And while demonstrating success, Daubert and others engaged in animal welfare said the continued growth
also signals the continuing strong need for such animal rescue programs.
In 2024, for instance, Daubert said animal “surrenders”—in which pet owners voluntarily hand over their dogs, cats or other animals—increased 25% in 2024, as more than 1,000 animals were surrendered. Through the first six months of 2025, surrenders were up 35% year over year at Anderson, as well.
Such surrenders typically happen for economic reasons, he said, such as when people lose jobs, change jobs, move out of the area or to a new dwelling and can’t take their animals with them, or their financial or physical circumstances simply make it impossible for them to properly care for their animals any longer.
Lori Schutt, who serves as board president for Hoof Woof & Meow Animal Rescue of Elgin, agreed.
Hoof Woof & Meow is an entirely volunteer-run network of people that since 2012 has worked to rescue animals in need and “re-home” them as often as possible, Schutt said.
Hoof Woof & Meow rescues and “re-homes” about 400 animals every year, Schutt said.
She said the “amount of people that are re-homing their animals for various reasons” stands as the biggest challenge for her organization.
And while economics may serve as the leading driver of rescues, she added other causes can include pet owners overwhelmed by animal behavioral issues.
“The most difficult is when people adopt a puppy and do not do the proper training,” Schutt said. “Now the puppy is an out-of-control adult dog, and they can’t handle it. Instead of getting and following through with the proper training, they would rather give the dog back.”
ANDERSON HUMANE
1000 S. La Fox St., South Elgin
847-697-2880
www.ahconnects.org
Adoption hours (South Elgin location)
Monday-Friday Noon to 7 p.m.
Saturday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Visit www.ahconnects.org/adopt to view pets and additional adoption locations.
HOOF WOOF & MEOW
440 J Airport Road, Elgin
847-836-7387
www.hoofwoofmeow.org
To adopt
Fill out and submit an adoption application to begin the process. Upon submission, applicants will receive an automated email response. The adoption team will respond within 48 hours. To see adoptable pets and apply, visit www.hoofwoofmeow.org/ available-for-adoption.
Daubert said Anderson has committed to remedying some of those drivers of “surrenders.” The humane organization offers training programs for new animal owners and in the past year has launched a new “pet food pantry,” providing owners in need with up to a week’s supply of food, thanks to a grant through the Milstein Foundation.
“We want to make sure they don’t surrender an animal just because they can’t feed them right now,” Daubert said.
But the core of the mission for Anderson, Hoof Woof & Meow and other animal rescue operations remains facilitating adoptions, making them as fast and easy as possible, while demonstrating responsibility to the animals in their charge.
Both Hoof Woof & Meow and Anderson offer community events, at which people are invited to meet animals seeking new homes.
Prospective families, of course, can also browse available animals on the organizations’ websites.
Prospective pet owners can complete an adoption application on Hoof Woof & Meow’s website and then will need to go through the HWM adoption interview process to determine if a particular animal and family are a good fit.
“We don’t adopt on a first-come, first-serve basis, but try to match the best home for each animal,” HWM says on their website.
At Anderson, the shelter offers regular adoption hours every day of the week, allowing prospective pet owners the chance to visit with available animals. Families can
also ask to arrange visits at the shelter with animals currently in foster care.
Once an animal and human have potentially bonded, families visit with adoption counselors, who will also help the family determine the best way forward toward adoption.
“We really work to make adoption as easy as possible,” Daubert said.
And, if everything works out, Daubert and Schutt said it is always their hope that loving families will be able to head home from their visits with a new “forever friend.”
(weather & conditions permitting)
Dogs and their owners can choose from THREE places in town to run, play and socialize with others. Dogs must be supervised at all times, be current on all vaccinations, and have current rabies tags worn and visible. Maximum two dogs per person allowed. Dog owners visiting the park are asked to clean up after their pets, fill in any holes dug, and not bring food into the park. Dogs must be on a leash while in the parking lot.
For more info: stcparks.org/dog-parks
East Side Sports Complex
Access via parking lot off Commerce Drive
Open Dawn-Dusk
• 0.84 acre dog park
• access to the site’s pond
• 5-foot chain link fence (not around pond)
• interactive play features with mulch surface
• separate area specifically for smaller dogs
owners are asked to clean up after their pets, fill in any holes dug, and not bring food
Dogs must be supervised at all times, be current on all vaccinations, and have current rabies
River Bend
Community Park
Courier & Geneva Avenues
Open Dawn-Dusk
• 3/4 acre dog park
• doggy water fountain
• double-gated security entrance
James O. Breen
Community Park
Campton Hills & Peck Roads
Lighted Facility
Open Dawn-10pm
• 2.56 acres fenced dog park
• doggy water fountain
• double-gated security entrance
• dog-friendly equipment
• activity stations
By Jonathan Bilyk | Photo provided by Kane County Health Department
Parenthood brings many rewards. From the first smiles and giggles to the moment a child heads out the door to college and all the cuddles and other quiet moments, the list of joys can be endless.
But the task of raising children also brings a host of challenges, many of which can be unique to each child but also, at the same time, common across families of all kinds.
"Parenting can be hard and isolating," said Kim Peterson, Director of Community Health for the Kane County Health Department. "When you're dealing with something difficult with a child, it can be so challenging.
"And parents may not have any idea what to do, or where to turn, and may believe they are the only ones experiencing this. But we can promise them: They are not and there are people waiting to help."
Throughout the Kane County region, parents can find resources to help them respond to their families' deepest needs and find success at giving their children a strong and healthy start in life. The resources can take many forms.
At West Aurora School District 129, for instance, the district recognized the needs facing families in its community. In 2024, District 129 opened the Jeff Craig Family Resource Center to serve as a central
source for families of students in the community to find help addressing key challenges.
The Craig Center "was created to help remove barriers that can stand in the way of student success," said Anna Gonzales, District 129's director of community affairs. "Whether it's food insecurity, mental health, or physical well-being, our goal is to support the whole child—so that students can focus on learning and thriving in school."
The Craig Center initiative positions staff in all District 129 schools to refer students to a long list of community partners. For instance, students needing medical care can find help through VNA Health Care. Other students may receive other forms of assistance for a wide range of needs, including shelter, clothing, nutrition, family counseling and suicide prevention, among others, Gonzales said.
And the community has responded to the offers of
help, Gonzales said, as 687 students received help in the Craig Center's first year of operation.
Just as with the Craig Center in District 129, Peterson said the county Community Health Department has also worked for years to establish itself as a hub to connect parents and families with the resources they may need.
Now in its 26th year, the county's All Our Kids (AOK) Early Childhood Networks helps to coordinate resources among a network of more than 60 public and private community organizations, aiding in education, health care, literacy, fitness and recreation, nutrition, counseling and behavioral health, shelter and more.
In more recent years, the county has introduced ways for parents to help other parents, through its Parent Cafe groups. Offered each month in both Spanish and English in locations in Elgin and Aurora, Parent Cafes allow parents to connect with both caregivers and peers to share their experiences and discuss challenges and possible solutions.
"To hear from other parents that they've struggled with the same things you are, and work through it together, it's just so powerful," Peterson said. But even if parents don't know what help to request, Peterson said help can be just a phone call away, through the county's information and referral specialist at 331-312-0060.
& AFTER-SCHOOL CARE
Boys & Girls Clubs of North Central Illinois
Locations in South Elgin, Elgin, Batavia and Aurora offer homework help and programs to boost literacy, financial literacy, STEM education and more. www.bgcncil.org
St. Charles Public Library
Offers homework help, test prep and tutoring for learners from kindergarten through adulthood, including Spanish-language and ESL support. HelpNow by BrainFuse is available daily from 2 to 11 p.m. www.scpld.org
YWCA Elgin
Offers ESL and family literacy programs, with childcare provided during classes. www.ywcaelgin.org
Salvation Army Tri-Cities Corps
After-school care for grades K–5, including crafts, snacks, indoor/ outdoor play and homework support. www.salvationarmy.org
ASSISTANCE & CHILD CARE
Chicagoland Fussy Baby Network
A program of the Erikson Institute offering phone support from infant care specialists for parents dealing with crying, sleeping or feeding struggles. www.erikson.edu
One Hope United Childcare and early learning centers in Elgin and Aurora, with a focus on kindergarten readiness. onehopeunited.org
Two Rivers Head Start Kindergarten readiness and preschool services for income-eligible families in Kane and DeKalb counties. www.trhsa.org
Learning Tree
Since 1978, has offered preschool and early education at sites in Elgin, Huntley and Algonquin. Preschool for All services available to qualifying families. www.learningtreechild.com
Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP)
State-funded assistance to help eligible parents afford childcare for children under 13. www.illinoiscaresforkids.org
& BEHAVIORAL HEALTH
Kane County Behavioral Health 360 Powered by CredibleMind, this online portal offers resources on mental health, behavior and self-care.
www.crediblemind.com
Aunt Martha’s Health & Wellness
– Provides behavioral and mental health care, substance use treatment, and strategies for stress, relationships and decision-making. www.auntmarthas.org
Fox Valley Hands of Hope
Offers grief support programs for children, families and adults. www.fvhh.net
Northwestern Medicine
Provides intensive behavioral health support for teens ages 13–18. www.nm.org
SPIRITUAL & PEER SUPPORT
Parent Café
Peer-led, structured conversations in emotionally safe spaces where parents discuss challenges and joys. Free and open to the public; childcare provided. www.kanehealth.com
Parent Pathway
A Christ Community Church program in St. Charles/South Elgin and Aurora offering guidance and resources for Christian parenting from conception through high school. www.ccclife.org
Embrace Parenthood
A St. Patrick Parish ministry offering hangouts, discussion groups and support for raising children in the Catholic faith. www.stpatrickparish.org
& CRISIS SUPPORT
School Food Pantries
Many area public school districts offer food pantries to assist economically struggling families.
Food Pantries & Shelters
Resources available from Aurora Interfaith Food Pantry, Food for Greater Elgin, Lazarus House, PADS of Elgin, Salvation Army, FISH Food Pantry and more. www.kanehealth.com www.lazarushouse.net www.fish-food-pantry.org
Community Crisis Center (Elgin)
Assists families dealing with domestic violence, sexual abuse, economic distress and shelter emergencies. www.crisiscenter.org
FREE & LOW-COST CHILD RECREATION
Kane County Forest
Preserve District
Offers youth programs for nature education and outdoor play. www.kaneforest.com
Local Park Districts
Free activities include playgrounds, skate parks, trails, and events like “Movies in the Park.” Financial aid available for fee-based programs.
By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske • Photos provided by
When Elburn resident Rebecca James started looking into what she was feeding her dog, she didn’t like what she discovered.
“It was shocking to me,” James said. “It was very eye-opening because we love our dogs, they are like our kids. I knew I was going to do better.”
Pet owners are taking an active approach to finding healthier food and treat options for their furry friends. Throughout Kane County, local businesses are answering the call to provide healthier food options.
At Four Legs Pet Pantry & Care in Gilberts, the
small business makes a point of stocking its shelves with high-quality, American-made pet food for dogs and cats, said owner Lauren Zemba.
“We hold ourselves to a higher standard,” Zemba said.
Zemba has been working at the Gilberts pet food shop for several years, and in February took the ownership reins along with Gavin Kriegel. The graduates of Hampshire High School bring their love of animals and meet customers’ desire for premium pet food options, as well as supplements and supplies. “My passion is animals,” Zemba said. “I grew
up with lots of pets and my mom and I love our dogs and cats.”
The small business gets to know its two- and four-legged customers, even providing grooming and limited, family-style boarding services for up to 10 dogs.
James turned her pursuit of better dog food into a business — Always Real Food, or as its customers call it, ARF — now with a retail location in St. Charles.
Like many pet owners, she started questioning her pet food after her dog became sick. James said her dog Willy was a warm, snuggle buddy. She lost him due to tainted food.
ALWAYS REAL FOOD
40W160 Campton Crossings Dr., St. Charles 630-549-0115 www.alwaysrealfood.com
FOUR LEGS PET PANTRY & CARE
133 E. Higgins Road, Gilberts 847-836-7738 www.fourlegspetsgilberts.com
It was heartbreaking. From her loss, she felt compelled to find an alternative.
In 2010, on her summer break from teaching, she spent her days in the kitchen developing recipes and finding the right balance of vegetables and proteins. Now, 15 years later, she has left the classroom and spends her days working with her team in a commercial-grade kitchen preparing canine-focused meals and managing her St. Charles retail location.
“It’s been quite a journey,” James said.
For the last two years, Always Real Food has been named one of the Best Pet Supplies in the Best of the Fox recognition, thanks to tremendous support from the local customer base.
“We’re pretty new to the area and it’s such a wonderful support,” James said.
In her meals, James uses the best products, roasting whole, pasture-raised, free-range turkeys to use the meat and creating her own bone broth. Her meatballs sell out each week. She loves watching the canine customers enter the
store, tails wagging and seeking out their favorites — including the Meaty Treats, akin to a pup-styled cake pop.
In addition to the St. Charles retail location, she distributes her prepared food in local pet stores in Kane and DuPage counties. While her recipes are crafted for dogs, James said customers tell her their felines enjoy the salmon meatballs, too.
In addition to her own retail location, James has product space in several other pet boutiques in Kane and DuPage counties. Her food is lab-tested and meets the Association of American Feed Control Officials guidelines for adult dogs.
James said her customers come for a variety of reasons, whether they are seeking an overall change in their dog’s diet or looking for special treats.
“Whatever food they choose, there’s no judgement. Whether they are looking to boost the bowl or help their dog eat healthier,” James said. “I love dogs and hope I can spread the love in the food.”
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! Your Local Butcher
Fire Up Your Barbeque with our COOKOUT
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! Have you Met the "Godfather" Try our "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 Our Many Homemade Salads Made Daily
Open Tues - Sat: 10 am to 5pm, Sun 10 am to 2 pm
Stay active and healthy as school starts up again
By Vicki Martinka Petersen |
ith school routines making a comeback later this month, soon the calendar will be filled with sports, clubs and other extracurriculars. But adding family fitness time to your fall lineup of activities can help ensure family time stays on the schedule. Here are some fun ways your family can get fit together.
Bill Cho’s United Taekwondo Center in St. Charles prides itself on building family connections for students ages 3 through adult. That’s why they offer a family class four nights a week for all belt levels where parents and kids can learn martial arts together. They also offer classes for kids, teens and adults.
“There are benefits for every age level who participates in our programs. Children gain confidence while developing body awareness and physical fitness. And parents can partake in a great workout while spending time with their children, achieving goals together and building memories,” says Master Shelley Johnson, Bill Cho's UTC director.
Karate is another fun way for families to get fit while learning new skills, like self-defense. National Karate, with locations in Aurora and South Elgin, provides a family-friendly environment for practicing the martial arts. The youth program for ages 4-12 fosters essential life skills to help youngsters at home and school. By age 13, parents and kids can practice together in the adult karate classes.
For 70 years, Aurora Skate Center has been the scene of many family outings. While the Learn to Skate class at noon on Saturdays is geared toward children, parents are welcome to join in and get some pointers as well. Afterward, you can practice your skills during the family-friendly Saturday matinee session from 1-4 p.m. If ice skating is more your speed, the Fox Valley Ice Arena in Geneva teaches the fundamentals of ice skating and figure skating as well as hockey to children, teens and adults. For a fun activity on a day off from school, stop by for a public skate session.
Consider swapping out screen time for tree time by enjoying any of the trails available through local park districts and the Kane County Forest Preserve.
Whether you’re an avid hiker or need motivation to hit the trails, consider joining the 100-Mile Hiking Club through Geneva Park District. Each registered participant who logs 100 miles of hikes from Sept. 1 through Dec. 31 will receive a hiking-themed T-shirt. Visit www.genevaparks.org/facilities/peckfarm-park to download your log.
Peck Farm Park in Geneva is not only where you’ll drop off your completed hiking log but also a place where you can get in some mileage for this challenge. Bring your leashed dog for a stroll along the trails. After your hike, stop by the Butterfly House before Sept. 30 and view the hundreds of nonnative butterflies.
Another fun place for pets and humans is the Fox River Bluff West Forest Preserve in St. Charles. This popular preserve has off-leash dog areas where owners are welcome to walk or run with up to three dogs at one time. The 67-acre preserve also features hiking and biking trails as well as fishing spots.
By Grace Rosati
Finding activities for the whole family can be tough, especially with age and ability gaps. But creativity is a universal skill, no matter how young or old. With fall coming up, now is the perfect time to gather the family for a new project. From bird feeders to door decorations, here are some ideas to spruce up your home with some do-ityourself magic.
A simple way to elevate your home’s spook factor is tree ghosts. All you need is white felt, stuffing, twine, a needle and a black marker. Cut the felt into squares and fill the center with stuffing. Bring the corners of the felt down toward each other, pinching under the stuffing to form a head shape. Tie it off with twine and add a ghoulish face. Thread another piece of twine through the top to make a hanger — and you're done. You can hang one ghost by itself or string several together to make a garland.
For this next craft, prepare to get a bit messy. Grab a large pinecone, birdseed, peanut butter, ribbon, a shallow pan, a butter knife and a paper plate. Start by covering the bottom of the pan with birdseed. Then provide your child with a paper plate, pinecone, a bowl of peanut butter and a butter knife. Have them smear peanut butter into the cracks and crevices of the pinecone. Make sure it’s a thick layer so the seeds stick. Once the pinecone is coated, roll it in birdseed until completely covered. Tie a ribbon or string to the top and hang it on a tree for a homemade bird feeder.
It’s time to get ready for football season, and what better way to stay warm than by making a felt tie blanket? You’ll need 1 1/2 yards of fleece for a child-sized blanket or 2 yards for an adult. Pick out two favorite fleece patterns at your local craft store. Line them up, lay them flat on the floor and grab some scissors. Holding both pieces of
fleece, cut a 5-inch-by-5-inch square from each corner. Then cut 1-inch-wide strips along all four sides — each strip should be about 5 inches long. Once your blanket has been fringed, begin tying it together. Using one front strip and one back strip, tie a tight double knot. Work your way around the blanket — and voilà, you have the perfect stadium companion.
Art block is real, and it’s common when trying to find a project that fits everyone’s interests. But Marge & Darn’s Craft Co. makes it easy. Maggie and Dan Coady began creating DIY kits during the COVID-19 pandemic and have since expanded into a physical studio space. They specialize in laser-cut wood designs, from door signs to shelf sitters.
These types of projects are accessible to all skill levels. “We like to do it this way because you don't have to paint inside
the lines,” said Maggie. “People who have more artistic skills might be more precise with cleaner edges or different coloring techniques, whereas some who aren’t as experienced follow the exact instructions we give them.”
Whether you're creating at home or in the studio, Marge & Darn’s DIY kits come with everything you need — from wooden pieces to paint, brushes and instructions.
In the fall, Halloween crafts take the cake. “I think a lot of [the kids’] interest leans towards Halloween,” Maggie said. “Some of the younger kids like turkeys around Thanksgiving, but I would say Halloween and candy-related things are what the bigger kids care about.”
Their fall kits include a Trick or Treat Candy Corn Door Hanger and a Thankful Porch Leaner.
Marge & Darn’s also hosts a variety of workshops, from Toddler Time to sessions led by guest instructors. They’re always looking for new artistic talents to share, so message them to apply.
No matter what’s happening in the studio, Maggie and Dan are happy to bring joy to their community. “I was a police officer previously and Dan was a firefighter, so making a difference is really important to us,” Maggie said. “Being able to funnel that passion into our business and provide a creative outlet for people is what we love the most.”
Visit Marge & Darn’s on Valley Drive in Elburn for an unforgettable family experience.
With the leaves changing color, inspiration is everywhere. Your projects are waiting — gather your loved ones and get to work.
Select
Animals are many things to humans — some feed us, some work for us, some entertain us, and yes, some even help heal us.
Animal-assisted therapy has been around since ancient Greece, but its resurgence in recent years has proven to reduce anxiety, lower blood pressure and cortisol levels, and spark recognition in dementia patients. Hospitals, rehab centers, nursing homes, schools and libraries all benefit from the healing power of pets.
Joe Sells, president of the Fox Valley Therapy Dog Club, now in its 21st year, notes that the club made nearly 2,000 visits last year to schools, hospitals and nursing homes. “Whether it’s special needs students, patients, or people in a nursing home, you just see them light up,” says Sells. “In a memory care unit our visits give them a bright moment in their day.” During one visit, a nonverbal special needs student said, “Hi, Joey!” to
one of the therapy dogs. “The teachers were amazed,” said Sells.
One thing Fox Valley’s members didn’t expect is how good they themselves feel after a visit. “The reward is just amazing,” says Sells. “It works both ways.”
And it’s not just patients who benefit.
“Our teams spend time with staff,” says Sells. “It's been a very stressful time since COVID. The healthcare industry went through a tremendous amount of turnover. Everybody’s short-staffed. When you make the staff smile, it makes the patients smile.”
Fox Valley makes regular visits to
Marmion Academy, a boys’ Catholic high school in Aurora. “I think the biggest thing I see is that they provide unconditional love, comfort and support,” says Marmion counselor Sherry Tietz. “If you’re having a rough day, they can really brighten your day. It absolutely helps the students’ distress for a test or if they have a big speech coming up. Even holiday time can sometimes be stressful. Therapy dogs have also been brought in to help if there’s a loss in the school community.”
Therapy animals come in many different forms, such as dogs, cats, rats, guinea pigs, pigs, birds, llamas, alpacas, mini horses, dogs, cats and mini donkeys. Dogs, however, make up more than 90 percent of those.
Jodie Diegel founded SOUL Harbor Ranch and Animal Therapy Program, the only Chicagoland multi-species animal therapy program, in 2018. SOUL Harbor has 100 volunteers, 58 registered Pet Partner handlers and 132 registered
teams. Diegel, a nurse, added mini horses to her ranch in 2013.
The tiny equines are a hit at Marklund, a nonprofit organization with locations in Geneva, Elgin and Bloomingdale that serves residential and day clients and students.
“From what we can see they really do enjoy it,” says Marklund Chief Communications Officer Dawn LassiterBrueski. “The trainer is so important in the whole process because they know how to work with their animal to get close enough to a wheelchair to put their head on the person’s lap so they can have hand-
over-hand assistance to pet the dog’s head or the horse’s head.”
“Besides the obvious smiles, I’ve also seen it turn somebody who’s acting hyper, all of a sudden holding a dog and being so gentle and calm, and like their whole personality is shifting to being nurturing and caring,” says Nikki Osterloh, Marklund manager of volunteer engagement. “It’s a very calming experience. It’s really nice to watch.”
“We love it when the mini horses come,” says Lassiter-Brueske. “How cool is it for someone in a wheelchair to be nose-tonose with a horse.”
By Vicki Martinka Petersen • Photos by Laura Gampfer Photography
Family portraits can come with challenges— from getting all the kids ready to having everyone look at the camera at the same time. Adding pets into the mix can certainly increase the difficulty.
“It’s a little bit of organized chaos but that’s when you get the best photos,” says Laura Gampfer, owner of Laura Gampfer Photography in Elburn.
In addition to taking family photos and headshots, Gampfer also specializes in photographing pets, equine, wildlife and farm animals.
Gampfer has always been drawn to animals. As a student in high school and college, she volunteered
at a humane society. After college, she worked as a veterinary technician and assistant in veterinary hospitals and animal shelters.
“I’ve been working with animals my whole life. They’re kind of my people,” she adds.
While its fun taking selfies with pets, it can be harder for owners to get shots interacting naturally with them. That’s what brings Gampfer the most joy in her work.
“To me, pets are part of the family, and you want to capture those special moments,” says Gampfer, who’s the proud owner of two rescue dogs. “I have fun working with pets and letting owners get great moments with them.”
As a photographer, Gampfer’s goal is to make sure the pet is comfortable. She does that by asking the owner a lot of questions about the pet before the session.
“Are dogs nervous by delivery trucks? If so, maybe don’t do a shoot by a busy area,” she says.
She also asks what might help get the pet’s attention—such as a favorite toy or treat—and whether the animal tends to get overstimulated. In her experience, every horse she has worked with has had a very unique comfort level.
“I want to make sure the pet is comfortable wherever the photo is taken. That’s why it’s important to ask owners questions about their pet before taking photos,” Gampfer says.
Dogs aren’t her only pet clients. Gampfer has also worked with cats, horses, cows, goats, ducks and roosters. She even once took pictures of a pet iguana.
“People have lots of types of pets,” she says.
Whatever the reason for a session, Gampfer’s goals are to find a great location that works with the animal’s comfort level and to make sure everyone has fun.
“I’m known for keeping my pets and my people comfortable while capturing these great connections,” Gampfer says. “I love how much I get to work with animals and their owners.”
As pets get older, or for those with a recent medical diagnosis, Gampfer offers Pet Tribute sessions to document those special moments as a keepsake for owners to treasure.
“Photographing these pets is an honor—each portrait a tribute to a life well loved. My goal is to capture these special moments with gentleness and grace,” Gampfer says.
By Chris Walker | Photos provided by Anderson Humane, Forest Preserve District of Kane County and Primrose Farm
Volunteering is a wonderful, shared activity for families, offering a chance to spend quality time together while having fun and supporting a great cause.
Finding local volunteering opportunities for your family isn’t difficult if you know where to look. Here are some options to consider that are close to home and make a meaningful difference in the community.
Whether you're interested in providing hands-on care to animals, helping keep the facility clean, participating in special events and fundraisers, assisting with administrative functions, or even fostering animals in your own home, you can make a big difference as a volunteer at Anderson Humane, 1000 S. La Fox St., South Elgin.
Volunteer opportunities are open to adults (ages 16 and older), require a $35 membership fee, and include completion of virtual safety and protocol training. Volunteers receive an Anderson Humane volunteer T-shirt and name tag. www.ahconnects.org
Families can apply with the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) to remove litter from an assigned two-mile section of highway at least four times a
year for a two-year period. If approved, the family will pick up trash, help keep roadsides clean, and complete an AdoptA-Highway cleanup report after each day of service.
In return, IDOT installs roadside signs identifying the volunteer group as an Illinois Adopt-A-Highway participant. IDOT provides safety vests and trash bags and removes the filled bags from the roadside. www.idot.illinois.gov
Volunteer opportunities with the Forest Preserve District of Kane County are available in natural areas management, environmental education, cultural and historic preservation, public safety, and trails and recreation.
Families may want to consider
participating in Volunteer Restoration Workdays, which do not require registration unless the family or group includes 10 or more people. Volunteers should wear boots or sturdy shoes, gardening or work gloves, safety glasses or sunglasses, and bring a water bottle. Call (630) 762-2741 with any questions. www.kaneforest.com
This nonprofit farm provides free, fresh produce to the community despite having no paid staff or experience in agriculture. Volunteers are the difference-makers—and your family could be next.
Offering volunteer opportunities for all ages and skill levels, Charity Blooms welcomes those willing to help with basic tasks, including weeding, harvesting and watering. Email: volunteer@charityblooms.org
This national nonprofit has a location in Aurora at 555 Exchange Court. It offers regular opportunities for families to reserve a spot to hand-pack rice, soy and dried vegetables along with a nutritionally complete blend of vitamins and minerals into bags. Volunteers then seal the bags, box them, and place them on pallets for shipment to children in need around the world. www.fmsc.org
This family-friendly facility at 5N726 Crane Road in St. Charles regularly seeks volunteers to help with livestock chores, gardening and farm clean-up. Additional help is often needed at special events for parking, ticketing, setup and takedown. www.primrosefarm.org
Geneva’s Festival of the Vine is a fabulous time for friends and families! Enjoy beer and wines from around the world. Feast on mouth-watering specialties from Geneva’s acclaimed eateries at our Flavor Fare. Find unique gifts at our Crafts show. Events schedule and festival details are at visitgenevail.com.
By Chris Walker • Photo by Dave Wilkes for Concours d’Elegance
Geneva Concours d'Elegance car show
The kids will be back in school soon and summer will begin to fade into fall, but family fun and adventures are still available across Kane County. A variety of low-cost events and festivities are happening through August.
l 16th Annual Parkside Lanes Cruise Night — Aug. 8
This beloved annual summertime tradition brings classic cars, delicious food, exciting raffles and creative awards to Parkside Lanes, 34W185 Montgomery Road in Aurora, from 6 to 9 p.m. It’s family-friendly and free for all spectators. Come out for the cool cars and celebrate the night with camaraderie and a sense of community. www.parkside54.com
l Batavia Quarry’s So Long Summer Swim — Aug. 8
Yo, summer, where are you going? Bid farewell to summer by celebrating the final weekend of the Hall Quarry Beach season with extended hours, family games and more. www.bataviaparks.org
l Heartache Tonight at Groovin’ in the Grove — Aug. 8
Eagles tribute band Heartache Tonight will wrap up Sugar Grove’s free summer concert series by performing the band’s timeless classics. Bring a lawn chair or blanket, pack snacks and cold drinks, or grab a bite from the food trucks. The Kids Zone offers outdoor activities before and during the concert to keep kids active so you can “Take It Easy.” www.facebook.com/ groovin60554
l Elburn Days — Aug. 15–17
The Elburn Lions Club’s “A Day in
the Park” event, first held in 1933, has grown into Elburn Days—the largest annual fundraiser for the club. Attendees can enjoy live music, crafts, auctions, a petting zoo, food and drinks, and more, all while supporting a good cause. www.elburnlions.com
l Geneva Concours d’Elegance — Aug. 24
Third Street in Geneva will be lined with a stunning collection of antique, classic and modern automobiles from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. during the 2025 Geneva Concours d’Elegance. The free, familyfriendly event offers a rare chance to see beautiful, historic vehicles up close. www.genevaconcours.net
l Plein Air St. Charles — Aug. 18–24
The St. Charles Arts Council’s Plein Air event will welcome 55 artists from across the country, who will paint scenes outdoors throughout the city. In
addition to watching artists and demos, the public can participate in their own creative activities. www.stcharlesil.gov
l High School Football — Aug. 29 and Fridays this fall
The final Friday of August marks opening night for high school football across the area. While many Kane County teams will be on the road for Week 1, Aurora Christian, Batavia and West Aurora will all host home games. Last season, Geneva and Batavia advanced to the state finals, with both the Vikings and Bulldogs bringing home runner-up trophies from Hancock Stadium at Illinois State University in Classes 6A and 7A, respectively.
Admission is about $5 for adults at most venues, with reduced or free entry often available for students and seniors. www.ihsa.org
7 tips to help animals and families adjust to a new home routine
Adding a new pet to your household
can be exciting, especially for families with children. Pets teach empathy, responsibility and unconditional love. But successful integration requires preparation, patience and consistency. Sadly, many pets are returned to shelters because they didn’t fit into a family’s routine and end up with undesired behavior issues. Some behavior issues can be prevented with proper preparation prior to getting a new pet. Whether you're welcoming a puppy, senior dog, kitten or rescue pet, these tips will help ensure a positive start for your new member of the family.
Before even choosing a pet, hold a family meeting. Discuss why you want a pet, the responsibilities involved and how each person can contribute. While kids are often excited about playtime and cuddles, it’s just as important to talk about daily care, feeding, walking, cleaning and training.
Assign age-appropriate tasks and consider using a pet care chart. For instance, teens might handle feeding or grooming, while younger children can refill water bowls or pick up toys. You could even create a fun “Pet Promise” where each family member commits to specific duties. Hang it somewhere visible, like the fridge or a bulletin board.
If you already have pets, ask your veterinarian how to safely introduce them to a new animal into the household. Proper introductions reduce stress and help prevent territorial behavior as well as prevent behavior issues with your current pet.
Think of bringing home a pet like bringing home a baby: you’ll need to pet-proof your space. Remove or secure hazards such as exposed cords, medications, cleaning products and trash bins. Look at your home from your pet’s eye level to spot hidden risks.
Set up a safe, cozy space for your new pet with:
• A bed or crate
• Food and water bowls
• Age-appropriate food
• Toys for stimulation
• Puppy pads or a litter box (if needed)
• Collar with ID tags, leash and grooming tools
This dedicated area will help them feel secure, especially in the first few days as they adjust to their new surroundings.
Your pet’s first day home should be welcoming, but not overwhelming. Avoid having guests over and keep the environment quiet — no loud TVs or music. Let your pet explore one room at a time at their own pace.
Encourage children to sit quietly and allow the animal to approach them. Don’t rush cuddles or playtime. Allow your new pet to warm up naturally. Building trust takes time, and calm introductions set the tone for a healthy relationship.
Like children, pets thrive on routine. Consistent schedules for meals, walks, bathroom breaks and bedtime give them a sense of security. This is especially important for rescue animals who may come from unstable situations.
Assign family members to regular tasks and stick to them. For example, your child might oversee breakfast feeding and a short morning walk. To make it more engaging, try:
• A sticker chart for tracking pet tasks
• Phone reminders for feeding or potty breaks
Routine builds trust and helps pets feel more at home.
Always supervise early interactions between your pet and children. Even gentle animals may feel nervous if touched unexpectedly or cornered.
Teach your children these key rules:
• Don’t pull tails, ears or fur.
• Avoid touching pets while they eat or sleep.
• Let pets come to you — don’t chase them.
• Speak softly and move calmly.
Help your kids recognize animal body language. If a dog’s tail is tucked or a cat’s ears are flat, that means “give me space.” Early guidance helps prevent accidents and encourages respectful behavior.
Book a wellness check with your veterinarian within the first week. Even if your pet looks healthy, it’s important to confirm vaccinations, parasite prevention and microchip registration. Your vet can also answer questions about feeding, training, and growth milestones. If you’ve adopted a rescue, this visit helps you learn more about their medical history and any special needs.
Bringing a new pet into your family is a big transition, for both the pet and your household. Don’t expect perfection overnight. There may be accidents, clinginess or nervous behaviors in the beginning. That’s completely normal.
Offer reassurance and celebrate small wins, such as your dog using the potty outside, your cat sleeping peacefully or your child remembering to feed the pet without prompting. Reinforce good behavior and remain consistent with boundaries and praise.
Bringing home a pet is about more than companionship — it’s about building trust, establishing routines, and growing together as a family. With preparation, teamwork and patience, your new furry friend won’t just be a pet, they’ll become an unforgettable part of your family.
Dr. Aaron M. Jackson is a board-certified veterinary surgeon with over 20 years of experience in advanced surgical care for pets. He earned his Doctorate in Veterinary Medicine from the University of Illinois in 1998, followed by specialized training in small animal surgery. In 2006, he achieved board certification in the specialty of Small Animal Surgery. Jackson has held leadership roles at Chicago’s largest veterinary specialty center, including chief surgeon and medical director. His expertise, skill and compassion provide pet owners with confidence in their pets’ surgical care. Submit suggestions and questions for future article topics via email at info@mvss.vet.
Midwest Veterinary Surgical Services aims to provide compassionate, expert surgical care for pets right at your local veterinary clinic. Our mission is to make advanced procedures affordable and convenient by eliminating the need to visit a distant specialty facility. Your pets deserve top-notch medical care, and we are here to provide it in the comfort of your home clinic.
This time of year, as parents recongregate in all the usual places after a few short weeks away, the initial reunion conversation often circles around a familiar question.
Strangely, it seems to leave some of us visibly stumped. Our shoulders roll back, head tilts to the side, brows crease — we sigh and rummage around in our memory banks as if we were asked what we had for dinner on March 3, 2019, mumbling something along the lines of:
"Oh, yeah, hold on, let's see..."
The question?
“So… did you go anywhere fun this summer?”
It shouldn’t surprise us. After all, it’s often just a polite follow-up to the question that dominated many conversations from spring break through the end of the school year:
“So… going anywhere fun this summer?”
The answers may vary — and on rare occasions, spark sudden-onset vacation envy — but they usually fall into a few predictable categories, such as:
l “The beach,” which, statistically, is the most common answer. About half of Americans tell pollsters they prefer a beach vacation. In the Midwest, this typically means the Atlantic coast or Lake Michigan — almost anywhere except Illinois.
l “The mountains,” which, around here, usually means the Rockies or the Smokies — also a top-tier vacation pick.
l “The lake,” which may still include the Lake (Lake Michigan), but often refers to a cottage or cabin by one of the countless inland lakes scattered across Wisconsin and the three M's: Minnesota, Michigan and Missouri.
l “Road trip,” which might involve RVing across the country or stuffing the minivan for a tour of the Southwest, the Pacific Northwest or wherever the GPS and cooler full of snacks lead.
l “Overseas,” which this time of year usually translates to “Europe” — and “Europe” often means Great Britain, Ireland, France, Italy or Greece.
Other answers occasionally appear, depending on popularity and personality. You might hear “Disney World” or the name of another theme park. Or someone might mention “the city,” which in this instance (and this instance only, for northern Illinois residents) means New York, Washington, D.C., or any other metropolis besides Chicago, offering culture, entertainment and culinary adventures.
Then there are the outliers — less common and harder to categorize.
Someone might say, simply: “Kansas.” (You never know.)
Still other responses defy easy classification.
Take, for instance, a week in Door County, Wisconsin. Is that a road trip? A lake trip? A beach trip? That’s a barnburner of a debate for a Friday night backyard gathering.
Another puzzle: the Caribbean cruise.
On one hand, you could argue it’s “the beach,” since that’s where the ship stops. On the other, it’s clearly “overseas” — literally — as you’ll need a passport.
And in some ways, a cruise feels like a floating city, albeit with less traffic and more buffets.
But I’d also submit that it qualifies as a sneaky entry in another category: “road trip.”
True, you’re not doing the driving — thankfully — but it hits the major road trip benchmarks:
l A charted course to new destinations.
l Fun experiences to discover when you arrive.
l An overflowing cornucopia of snacks and music along the way.
While I can confidently jump into the debate over how to categorize vacations, my ability to argue the classification of a cruise has been mostly academic — until now.
This summer, that’s changing.
My wife, kids and I will be boarding a cruise ship for our first trip through the Caribbean. We’ll be in search of the iconic white-sand beaches and crystalline blue waters, soaking in the endless stream of entertainment and culinary delights along the way.
As you may have guessed, the wife and kids are ecstatic. I... am keeping an open mind and have promised to find the fun in whatever we do.
But this fall, no matter how tightly the school-year routine grabs hold of the calendar, I’ll be ready with a firsthand account the next time someone asks about summer. Whether it's a polite bit of small talk or a spirited debate over vacation classifications — I’ll be ready.
n Jonathan Bilyk writes about the triumphs and travails of being a modernday 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.)
227 S. Third St., Second Floor of The BerryHouse, Geneva 630-457-5348 | www.elmolcajetegeneva.com
Start your dining fiesta with a view of downtown Geneva while relaxing on our patio, located on the second floor of the BerryHouse. Our menu features authentic burritos, fajitas, tacos, enchiladas, quesadillas and house specialties. Try our famous jalapeño margarita, or select from over 10 varieties of handcrafted margaritas – they're all made with fresh fruit, fresh lime juice and organic agave nectar. You can also choose from our large variety of Mexican beers as well as sangrias and mojitos; you're sure to find something to tempt your taste buds! See our website and Facebook for monthly specials and guacamole of the day.
306 W. State St. , Geneva 630-208-7070 | www.stockholmsbrewpub.com
Out back and tucked in a nook with the neighboring building, protected by a high fence and covered with a shade sail, Stockholm’s patio is a little intimate dining gem. Voted the Western Suburbs’ Best Neighborhood Tavern by the readers of both the Kane County Chronicle and West Suburban Living Magazine, Stockholm’s is known for its expansive menu of freshly prepared meals using only the highest quality ingredients. You can also enjoy its handcrafted beers, brewed in an Old World tradition, naturally conditioned and unfiltered, from the Tri-Cities’ oldest brewery.
moto imoto
181 S. First St., St. Charles 630-425-0990 | www.motoimoto.com
moto imōto is a unique blend of "East meets West" Pan-Asian culinary experiences. Our Asian street-food inspired menu offers shareable plates, signature sushi rolls, and chefdesigned farm-fresh dishes that elevate and heighten the overall guest dining experience. Our open-air wraparound patio provides a comfortable dining experience while being right in the heart of St. Charles. Explore Half-Price Sushi Tuesdays (available all day Tuesday for dine-in or carryout), or wind down at our bar, lounge area, or patio with our happy hour offered every weekday from 3-6 p.m. Don't forget to get your “WOW” on with Wine on Wednesdays, offering half-off all bottled wines and any of our bottled sake selections, or stop by for lunch offered daily and enjoy our $14 lunch combos and our $15 Bento Lunch Box specials. Our fresh and innovative dining experience is sure to become a new personal favorite and a welcome escape from the everyday routine.
407 S. Third St., Geneva 630-457-1115 | www.ellasitalianpub.com
This summer, experience BG Hospitality Group's newest restaurant concept: Ella's Italian Pub. Ella’s is located in the heart of Geneva’s historic shopping district, at the corner of Fulton and Third Street. After your first visit, Ella's will soon become your favorite spot to dine and unwind. Our family-friendly dining experience starts with our signature Roman-style pizzas made from handcrafted dough, accented by creative Italian pub-style street food offerings, along with an extensive wine list and crafted cocktails, making it the perfect destination for any occasion. Be sure to stop by and try our off-the-menu specials: Happy Hour on weekdays from 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the bar and lounge area, or enjoy “Sundays in Rome" with half-price pizzas for carryout or dine-in all day Sunday. Ella’s also offers our signature Wine on Wednesdays (WOW); enjoy half-off all wines listed by the bottle on our menu every Wednesday.Visit our website for more. What makes us different? It's how we "dough it!”
207 S. Third St., Geneva | 630-402-6444 | www.liviaitalianeatery.com
Livia Italian Eatery features a broad Northern Italian-inspired menu, offering dishes that range from pastas and fresh greens to crowd favorites like our New Zealand lamb chops. Along with other specialty entrées, each dish stays true to our farm-to-fresh motto. Our open-air patio, located in the heart of Geneva, has a sunken-in design that allows for a more private outdoor dining experience, along with a ramp for easy access. Livia also offers Wine on Wednesdays (WOW); enjoy half-off all wines listed by the bottle on our menu every Wednesday. Whether you wind down on Wednesdays wine, enjoy happy hour from 3-6 p.m. every weekday, or end the week with brunch offered on Saturdays and Sundays, a summer outing at Livia is the perfect staycation oasis.
13 N. Third St., Geneva | 630-405-5544
31 S. First St., St. Charles | 630-415-0770 www.giamiapizzabar.com
Gia Mia provides chef-driven, farm-to-fork concepts such as Neapolitanstyle wood-fired pizzas, creative small plates, fresh pastas, and much more. Along with our crafted cocktails, we feature craft beers and exclusive wines carefully selected to complement any meal. Enjoy al fresco dining on our open-air patio with a lovely pergola at our Geneva location, or an inviting covered patio and piazza at our St. Charles location. Gia Mia also offers Wine on Wednesdays (WOW); enjoy half-off all wines listed by the bottle on our menu every Wednesday. With offers such as our $13 lunch special, half-price pizza Mondays, and Wine on Wednesdays, it's the perfect time to enjoy the summer weather with family and friends.
Rookies All-American Pub & Grill
2486 Bushwood Dr., Elgin | 847-551-9006
1996 S. Kirk Road, Geneva | 630-402-0468
12220 Princeton Dr., Huntley | 847-669-8600
1360 Lake St., Roselle | 847-278-1666
1545 W. Main St., St. Charles | 630-513-0681
72 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake | 815-893-2030 www.rookiespub.com
Rookies All-American Pub & Grill has seven locations across Northern Illinois with it’s newest location now open in Crystal Lake. The menu features a variety of pub food and American favorites including their famous wings, burgers, sandwiches and specialty pizzas. Check out their house drinks – Bob’s Mai Tai has been a house specialty since 1975 – as well as house wines by Robert Mondavi, by the glass or by the bottle. The restaurant regularly hosts special events, such as Cruise Nights from June through September at Elgin and St. Charles locations and Atomic Bingo (Tuesdays in Elgin and Geneva, Wednesdays in St. Charles). A huge patio and bar with a live music stage is open in Geneva Rookies at the ice rink!
41W379 Route 64, Campton Hills 630-389-7740 | www.squirealehouse.com
Squire Ale House is a fresh take on the traditional experience of its sibling restaurant, Village Squire. This new addition to the Karas Restaurant Group offers a more tavern-style atmosphere while maintaining the signature elements that make the original brand a success. Squire Ale House is a destination for family dinners and casual dining. Menu highlights include a mix of homegrown, classic and craft brews plus burgers, ribs and the Village Squire’s famous broasted chicken. Enjoy food and beverages on a newly designed outdoor patio. Don't miss live music every night Tuesday through Sunday.
480 Randall Road, South Elgin | 847-931-0400
125 Washington St., West Dundee | 847-428-4483 www.villagesquire.com
Village Squire Restaurants have been part of the Fox Valley since 1974, family owned and operated. The Squire is an English pub-style casual dining restaurant featuring live music Wednesdays through Sundays and a cozy atmosphere with a great outdoor patio featuring two fireplaces for enjoyment in the warm weather months. Some of their specialties include charbroiled steaks, juicy prime rib and a wide variety of gourmet burgers, salads, sandwiches, pizzas, pasta and fresh fish. Famous for their house drinks, Mai Tais and Rum Barrels are made in-house and are an all-time favorite. For a casual drink or dinner, Village Squire is a great place to be!
1725 N. State St., Elgin | 847-888-4146 1650 W. Main St., St.Charles | 630-549-0514 www.alexanderscafe.com
Alexander’s Cafe is named in honor of Alexander the Great, a king of Macedonia in Northern Greece, where the restaurant owners are from. Alexander’s serves breakfast and lunch 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. – all home-cooked meals are made fresh on the premises by the chef. All of the soups, sauces, gravies and dressings are made fresh onsite. Alexander’s also features bloody marys and mimosas!
As you read this article, the heat and humidity of August may rival the uncomfortable conditions many Republicans felt during the final days prior to the One Big Beautiful Bill Act’s approval July 3. Negotiations were intense as details were debated and massaged until the final bill was done. Despite many skeptics on both sides of the aisle, President Donald Trump was able to see this bill arrive for his signature July 4.
At the deadline for this article in mid July, many of us are still unpacking the details and thinking about both short-term and long-term impact. One area not getting the attention I believe it should is in regard to charitable giving.
Nonprofit organizations are important to our team, so it should be no surprise that we were watching to see if this legislation would create a more favorable environment for charitable giving. Starting in 2025, the new law reinstates an above-the-line deduction for charitable giving, meaning you don’t have to itemize your federal return to benefit. This should be good news for your favorite, qualified charities. Let’s see why this may be the case.
The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 nearly doubled the standard deduction, making itemizing less common. In fact, 30% of filers itemized deductions before 2018, whereas only 10% of returns itemized since then.1 If you take the standard deduction, you generally have not been able to deduct charitable contributions on your federal tax return. This means that around 90% of taxpayers get no federal tax break for charitable giving.
ABOVE-THE-LINE. The One Big Beautiful Bill Act does change the charitable giving landscape. Starting in 2025, the law reinstates an above-the-line deduction for charitable giving, meaning you don’t have to itemize to benefit. Starting in 2025, taxpayers can deduct up to:
• $1,000 for single filers
• $2,000 for married couples filing jointly
This is a permanent change, unlike the temporary COVID-era deduction that expired after 2021, and is especially helpful for middle-income households who want to give but don’t itemize.
KEEP IN MIND. A few important reminders:
• Donations must be made to IRS-qualified charities – no political campaigns or crowdfunding.
• Keep your receipts! You’ll need written acknowledgment for donations over $250 to claim the deduction.
Our team is hopeful that this change in tax code will result in a noticeable boost in charitable giving for qualified charities. We believe that a life well-lived requires that a person gives back to their community through both good works and financial contribution. One of the ways we “walk the walk” is through our sponsorship of Shaw Media’s award-winning Giving Back publication each year. We also engage in managing endowments for nonprofits. It is our hope that this change in code results in even more generous support for many important causes.
For more information about how revised tax code may impact you, we strongly encourage you to consult your tax professional. Want help finding ways to maximize this new benefit or explore donation strategies? Our team will be happy to collaborate with you and your tax advisor to review taxefficient strategies for charitable giving. Don’t wait, give us a call!
1Internal Revenue Service, Statistics of Income. Table 1.3. “All Returns: Sources of Income, Adjustments, Deductions, Credits, and Tax Items, by Marital Status. November, 2022.
This material is intended for informational purposes only, does not constitute a recommendation, and should not be construed as investment, legal or tax advice and is not intended to replace the advice of a qualified attorney, tax advisor or plan provider. The information has been obtained from sources considered to be reliable, but we do not guarantee that the foregoing material is accurate or complete. Any opinions are those of Tom McCartney and not necessarily those of Raymond James. Expressions of opinion are as of this date and are subject to change without notice.
Tom McCartney is the founding principal of My Advisor & Planner and a wealth manager, RJFS. Pictured left to right with his team are cofounder and wealth manager Sharon Piet, Tom, and Michael Holevas, CFA, wealth manager. Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services are offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. My Advisor & Planner is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services. Their office is at 107 S. 2nd Street, Geneva, IL 60134. Call 630-457-4068.
Understanding what people are passionate about is how we help them plan for what’s most important. Backed by sophisticated resources, a Raymond James financial advisor gets to know you and everything that makes your life uniquely complex. That’s Life Well Planned.
By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske
When it comes to making the biggest purchases, experience makes a difference.
The Cassandra Bajak Group at Guild Mortgage brings more than 100 years of combined experience to best serve every client with their specific home needs.
Cassandra Bajak, who has nearly 40 years of mortgage lending experience, and her team help borrowers find the best mortgage loans to fit their family’s needs. Bajak is experienced with conventional, VA, FHA, second mortgages, JUMBO and local grant or down payment assistance programs. She also is a Certified Veteran Lending Specialist. She said several members of her immediate family are veterans, including her husband, father, uncle and niece.
“They gave a lot for us. I give my all for them,” Bajak said.
Guild Mortgage, launched in 1960, is one of the largest national home lenders. In addition to being recognized as the Best or One of the Best for five-plus years in the Best of the Fox awards, the Cassandra Bajak Group has been named a Five Star Pro 2025 (eight-plus years prior), ranking in the top 1% of the state.
Bajak’s main goal is to provide buyers with a solid pre-approval while working with the buyer's Realtor to give them to tools to get their offer accepted above the others. In addition, she will call and email the listing agent to introduce herself to keep the line of communication as open as possible. Business referral partners can expect promptness to handle any
concerns their clients may have.
Many clients come from referrals and prior service, a nod to the team’s proven ability to be there for each client. When possible, Bajak said she and her team try to attend their clients’ closings to help things move smoothly and celebrate their new home purchase.
“We’re about knowledge, service and speed,” Bajak said. “We’re very thorough and proactive.”
In some home purchase transactions, it may seem that each specialist works in their own silo, but Bajak said her team goes above and beyond in the lending process to communicate with clients and professionals throughout the experience.
“We’re very communicative. We offer hand-in-hand guidance,” Bajak said.
With three decades of experience with proactive mortgage lending, Bajak is a multigenerational lender.
“It’s important to bridge those gaps,” she added. She works with both first-time buyers and those returning to the market. She works well with Realtors, divorce and real estate attorneys, investment analysts, accountants and wealth managers.
“We have many down payment assistance programs to help our clients,” she added.
Bajak also sees returning clients ready to purchase their retirement homes. Her team supports clients’ retirement dreams, even when those plans take them out of state.
Bajak also assists in securing home equity loans, and consolidating debts, or aid in Home Improvement loans. She is also well versed in navigating foreclosures and bankruptcy.
Another area of expertise is providing assistance for First Responders Loans, helping police officers, firefighters, teachers and nurses access home loans to live near the communities where they work. For the Bajak Group, this goes beyond loan paperwork.
“First responders’ schedules are unique and may not fit in normal business hours,” Bajak said. So, she and her team go the extra mile — whether it’s rising early or taking a call late in the evening — to serve their clients.
She’s also helped several international clients who, after years working in business or the military while stationed overseas, are looking to return to the U.S. and purchase a property. Bajak said this often means handling work and calls at varying hours of the day, but she believes flexibility is essential.
Bajak and her team pride themselves in keeping the lines of communication clear, so the process is smooth and successful for all parties.
Cassandra Bajak Group at Guild Mortgage 2471 W. Sullivan Road, Suite 1 Aurora, IL 60506
847-877-5588 cassandrabajak.com
Bluegrass Sunday at the Woonerf at the Sidecar Supper Club & Beer Garden from 5-8 p.m.
Free Poker Monday Nights at The Town Bar and Grill in Aurora
National Night Out! Check with your local police departments to learn more about planned activities and celebrations.
School Supply DIY with the Geneva Public Library from 3-4 p.m. (Entering Grades 6-12)
Geneva Classic Car Show at The Little Traveler from 5-8 p.m.
So Long Summer Swim at Hall Quarry Beach from 6-8 p.m.
7th Annual Rusty Rodeo at Creek Bend Nature Center in St. Charles from 10 a.m.-noon
St. Charles' Plein Air Event at 121 N. 2nd St. from 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Kane County Cougars vs. Lake Country Dockhounds in Geneva at 6:30 p.m.
Waubonsee Night at the Kane County Cougars. Tickets are $8 for Waubonsee students, employees, alumni and their families. Event starts at 5:30 p.m.
Wednesday Evening Market at North River Street in Batavia from 5-8 p.m.
Trek with a Naturalist at Hoscheit Woods Forest Preserve in St. Charles from 5:307:30 p.m.
"Come From Away" at the Paramount Theatre in Aurora. Musical starts at 7 p.m.
Prairie Fest in Campton Hills from 11-3 p.m.
17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30
Open Mic Mondays at Preservation in Geneva from 6-9 p.m.
Fox Valley Folk Music & Storytelling Festival
Aug 31 - Sept. 1
11 a.m.6 p.m.
Jason Benefield Live at Brother Chimp Brewery in North Aurora at 6 p.m.
From strength training to postpartum recovery, Dr. Linnea Omholt is here to help patients
By Melissa Rubalcaba
Patient care can look different for every individual. That’s one of the reasons Dr. Linnea Omholt chose to return to her hometown of Batavia to open her own physical therapy practice.
“We offer the treatment that fits our clients,” Omholt said. “We create a plan tailored to our clients, whether they need weekly care or occasional visits as needed.”
The ability to design a plan for each client—outside of insurance company rules and corporate outlines—has drawn attention to her practice, Beyond Physio, which was named Best Physical Therapist in Kane County.
Omholt said it was an honor to receive the Best of the Fox recognition from the community for such a young business.
“I really appreciate it,” Omholt said.
A physical therapist and doctor of physical therapy, Omholt spent several years working in a hospital system before deciding to branch out with a vision for care that goes beyond limited visits and required referrals. She now sees patients without a referral and treats issues beyond typical soreness, pain and joint discomfort.
One area of focus is care for postpartum mothers.
“A woman’s body spends nine months changing and supporting a baby and then after the delivery the mother is sent home to care for her newborn without any rehab or help with her body aches and more. There’s so much we can do to help one recover,” said Omholt, who is also a mother of three and has navigated her own postpartum body and health concerns.
She works with women on postpartum issues, including pelvic floor health and general aches and pains. Omholt is a certified postpartum corrective exercise specialist.
She is also an advocate for strength training, helping patients create exercise plans that incorporate weight training and stretching. Omholt said physical therapy can address both pain and preventative care to help the body stay strong.
“It’s amazing what the body can do when you create a plan and stick to it,” she said.
As a teen gymnast, Omholt learned about physical therapy after undergoing knee surgery. She had her first procedure while still a student at Batavia High School, and a second surgery while in college. Her experience with physical therapy helped her see the impact of treatment that focuses on the individual.
At Beyond Physio, Omholt works with each client throughout their visit. The business is located inside Challenge Fitness, a studio that offers access to additional strength training tools through a business partnership.
As her practice grows, she hopes to introduce memberships so clients can access both physical therapy and strength training programs.
Education is also a priority for Omholt, who offers workshops throughout the year. In September, she plans to
host her Happy Feet workshop, which highlights the role of foot health in overall body stability.
Omholt is a board-certified orthopedic specialist, a credential she pursued to better serve her clients. She studied for two years while balancing her growing business and young family.
“I’m really happy I did it,” Omholt said. “I learned so much, and I feel it has made me a better physical therapist.”
Bringing her business to Batavia, where she grew up and now raises her own family, was especially meaningful. Her family recently moved to a home on five acres on the city’s west side, where they care for goats and chickens.
n Beyond Physio Physical Therapy & Wellness
335 N. River St., Suite 203, Batavia 331-248-3533
www.beyond-physio.com
Whether reading alone or reading aloud to household members (including humans and pets), books offer fun for the whole family! Here are two recommendations for your August reading list, courtesy of the librarians at Geneva Public Library.
“The Raven Boys” by Maggie Stiefvater If Blue Sargent kisses her true love, they will die. That’s the prediction she has heard her whole life, growing up in a family of psychics in West Virginia. What they didn’t predict was her newfound friendship with a group of boys who attend the nearby boarding school. Their charismatic leader is on a quest, and Blue tags along because she wants to experience magic for herself, the type of magic everyone but her in her family has.
“The Raven Boys” might have a mythical quest at the center of its plot, but the book is more of a hangout book than an epic fantasy. Blue and the boys all come from different backgrounds, and more than one has a chip on their shoulder. Stiefvater wrote “The Raven Boys” because she wanted to see a story set in America that was just as magical as those set in Europe and fantasy worlds. She writes West Virginia with just as much care and empathy as her cast of characters. If you like a complex cast of misfits on a quest in a dark fantasy, you’ll want to check out “The Raven Boys.” The best part: this series has been completed, and there’s a graphic novel coming out soon.
– Allyson Palagi, Adult & Teen Services Coordinator
“Good Dirt” by Charmaine Wilkerson
“Good Dirt” by Charmaine Wilkerson is a timely novel full of hope and healing. Wilkerson deftly takes the threads of disparate storylines and weaves them together. Her story displays the need for community and connection to the past. Ebby Freeman has everything a young woman could ever want. She comes from a prominent black family rooted in the history of Connecticut. She has grace, style and education. She lacks nothing – well, except her brother, who was murdered when she was 10 years old. The grief and trauma of the event that she witnessed stayed with her, placing a dark shadow on a seemingly idyllic life. Henry, Ebby’s fiancé, has tried to understand how the tragic event continues to impact Ebby, but he worries about their future together. On their wedding day, when Henry doesn’t show, Ebby must finally come to terms with her brother’s murder and decide who she is going to be. Ebby’s story is interwoven with the history “Old Mo,” a jar crafted by an enslaved man in 1847. As the reader learns about Ebby and her family, they also learn the history of the jar and its impact on generations who cared for it. While dealing with difficult topics, “Good Dirt” is hopeful, encouraging us to heal from the wounds of a problematic and burdensome shared history of slavery, to overcome the past, invest in the future and embrace our connectedness.
– Rebekah Malek, Adult & Teen Services Librarian
BEST DAY HOUSECLEANING
25 N. River Lane, Geneva 630-463-9041
www.bestdayhousecleaning.com
By Chris Walker n Photos provided by Best Day Housecleaning
It takes physical effort and motivation to clean your home.
But it only takes a couple of minutes to call 630463-9041 or visit www.bestdayhousecleaning.com to request a free quote with Best Day Housecleaning in Geneva, which was recently named the best cleaning service in the 2025 Best of the Fox Kane County Chronicle Readers’ Choice Awards.
“I tell all of our new employees we’re cleaning people’s homes, but we’re actually giving people time,” said Katherine Banks, owner of Best Day Housecleaning. “The time they don’t have to do this and that. Everyone is so busy, and cleaning can fall to the wayside.”
That’s where Best Day Housecleaning enters the picture as an expert residential cleaning service, providing recurring cleaning (weekly, biweekly, monthly), deep cleaning, and move-in/move-out cleaning services from South Elgin to North Aurora.
With a team of professionally trained and thoroughly vetted cleaning housecleaners, Best Day Housecleaning utilizes specialized equipment to deliver results that are simply not attainable using conventional methods. The service creates a safer, healthier environment for families. Housecleaners remove allergens, bacteria and dust, delivering a deeper, more comprehensive clean that promotes well-being while freeing up your time and ensuring peace of mind.
“We want the same cleaning person working in the same house,” Banks said. “In the service industry they can feel unseen and unimportant. We make it a point for them to know how important they are to the people they go to every week and how much it means to totally clean their house.”
Once you contact Best Day Housecleaning, receive your free quote and share some information about your property, budget and availability, you’ll be able to choose your cleaning service and the date and time you’d like it completed. And once you’ve made the switch from DIY to Best Day Housecleaning, you can take advantage of more free time and a sparkling clean home—so you can relax and pursue those passions that have taken a back seat because of tasks like vacuuming, dusting, sweeping and mopping.
Best Day Housecleaning is fully insured and bonded, so your home and belongings are protected throughout the cleaning process. And you won’t have to wait long for the housework to be done. The team is prompt and reliable. You can rest easy knowing that a familiar face will arrive on time and deliver consistent, trustworthy service. It’s the kind of high-quality work that will have your home looking its absolute best. Plus, as an ecofriendly company, Best Day Housecleaning won’t harm the environment or your pets. It also offers a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
It’s only been two years since Banks, a local mom and entrepreneur, started Best Day Housecleaning, but positive word continues to spread. While her team is cleaning houses in the Tri-Cities area, they’re also active within the community and provide free home cleaning services to patients battling cancer through Cleaning for a Reason.
Because knowing someone, truly means caring for them
By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske Photo provided by GreenFields of Geneva
Understanding, patience and respect are some of the reasons why GreenFields of Geneva, a Lifespace Community, earned the honors as Best of the Fox Premier Senior Living Community, Best Assisted Living, Best Skilled Nursing and One of the Best Memory Care Facilities.
Those in the know understand it goes much deeper than caring for residents, as the staff is committed to providing meaningful experiences while creating a sense of community for all residents.
“Our staff, the teams, are there for residents through all the emotional highs and lows,” said GreenFields of Geneva Administrator Jenna Thieding. “We have such great people, and their attitudes are always so wonderful.”
Thieding, a Midwestern native, recently joined GreenFields of Geneva after working at another Lifespace Community in Florida. She has quickly found her way around, making a point to spend time getting to know both residents and staff.
Even with her busy days, Thieding said she loves getting away from her desk to chat with residents as they stroll through the community.
“My mom was a nurse, and she worked in a skilled nursing facility so I spent a lot of time with the older generation,” Thieding said. She knew she wanted to work in the health care field and found her home supporting the residents and staff at GreenFields of Geneva.
“It’s very rewarding to see the impact I can have with residents,” Thieding said.
GreenFields of Geneva is a continuing care retirement community offering independent living, assisted living, memory care, skilled nursing and rehabilitation services. Having multi-level care ensures residents can age in place.
“We have everything here with physicians and resources available in-house,” Thieding said.
GreenFields of Geneva offers memory care for individuals facing Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. Memory care includes tailored care plans for each resident that utilize speech, cognitive and physical therapies along with activities and creative outlets in music and art to enrich lives, foster connections and help residents thrive.
Private memory care apartments are thoughtfully equipped with advanced safety features. Team members provide an attentive presence, assisting with daily activities and medication management.
Throughout the community, residents can explore opportunities for health and wellness, the arts, and connection. There are multiple dining options, allowing residents to gather over a meal or grab a bite at the Bistro.
Residents appreciate being part of the community — from the residential setting to the proximity to downtown Geneva’s shopping and dining, as well as neighboring towns.
Thieding said it’s exciting to see strong interest in GreenFields of Geneva, which is near 100% occupancy.
Work is underway for a community celebration at GreenFields of Geneva. Green Fest, a new event, will take place from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Aug. 26, offering neighbors and the greater community a chance to enjoy a summer evening together. The all-ages event will feature entertainment and food, and Thieding said the hope is to make it an annual tradition.
Time spent outdoors offers health benefits
By
Casting a fishing line into the fresh waters of the Fox River or walking beneath a canopy of leaves, a dose of nature can be a great cure for calming one’s mind, improving moods and even getting a better night’s sleep.
“In the world we live in, it’s good to get away from the television, unplug and be able to get out and spend time outside,” said Ryan Solomon, Ecological Restoration Supervisor for the St. Charles Park District.
In his day job, Solomon’s unofficial office is the outdoors, working throughout the park district’s natural areas. He and his crews are the ones cleaning up a trail, tackling restoration and even growing the park district’s newest arboretum.
For Solomon, spending time in nature, whether as part of his work, fishing after a busy day or enjoying a family camping trip, he finds the time he spends in nature help him clear his mind.
“It gives you such a different perspective on life,” Solomon said. “I feel totally rejuvenated, refreshed to get out in nature, to connect with nature.”
Turns out it’s more than a feeling. There’s scientific evidence to support a prescription to spend time in nature, or Nature’s Rx, can have cognitive health benefits. The Conservation Foundation, a not-for-profit land and watershed conservation based in northern Illinois, promotes Forest Therapy as a way to reconnect with nature and improve one’s mental and physical health. The Conservation Foundation cites studies that show the benefits of forest therapy, from reducing stress and helping with focus, concentration and memory.
There are many benefits to making time for a walk, whether it’s outside one’s front door or during a lunch break at the office. Finding time to walk in one of the many
natural areas and parks in the community can boost those benefits.
“I often see parents drop their children off for a class at Hickory Knolls Discovery Center and take off on hike,” said Emily Shanahan, manager of the nature programs at the St. Charles Park District’s Hickory Knolls Discovery Center.
The three-mile trail adjacent to the nature center is a great spot for a healthy walk in nature as it winds through multiple habitats including a prairie and a wetland formed from glacier that was at one time, located on the land, Solomon said.
The vast wildlife and plant life in nature, engages the senses and ensures no two walks through the trail will look the same.
“The best part about nature is it’s always changing,” Solomon said. “There’s a different bird to spot, you might hear the frogs, you never know what you’ll see.”
Also located near Hickory Knolls is one of the newest additions to the natural areas, an arboretum. The multi-year project to replace non-native plants with native species of trees and plants continues to take shape as it progresses to its official certification as an arboretum, a botanical area devoted to trees. Patrick Bochenek, ecological restoration technician with the St. Charles Park District is the advocate who led the project.
For those like Solomon, who are working to support the area’s development, it’s a labor of love that will provide enjoyment for future generations. Those 5-foot trees take time to take root, but it’s a project that inspires. This spring, the St. Charles Park District Staff discovered a kildeer, a species of shorebirds, nested in the area right off the trail. Yet another sign of wildlife discovering and settling into the habitat. “Being able to watch it grow, it’s almost like cheering for them,” he quipped.
The Tri-Cities are booming with arts and artists — perhaps nowhere more vibrantly than Batavia’s Water Street Studios, which hosts events, galleries and up to 25 artists in residence. Each month, Kane County Magazine and Water Street Studios are partnering to highlight artists and their work.
Graphic designer and illustrator Lisa Youngdahl lives in Batavia and has been a resident artist at Water Street Studios since 2010. Youngdahl has taught colored pencil classes at the studio since 2019, including her most recent offerings, Colored Pencil on Black and Techniques in Colored Pencil.
As a child, Youngdahl recalls creating original illustrations for her favorite books, sparking an interest in applying her own imagination and creativity to various content.
“I majored in graphic design in college and worked as a graphic designer,” she says. “But I never lost my interest in drawing and began working with colored pencils. I spent some time taking lessons at Beech Tree Studios in Geneva to improve my technique.”
Youngdahl was immediately drawn to Water Street Studios when it opened.
“I have lived in Batavia since 1986, so when I discovered Water Street Studios, and the variety of artists working in different media, I thought it would be a good fit for me and my graphic design background,” she says. “I use my studio as my office for doing graphic design as well as working in traditional art. I love that Batavia is an ‘arts’ community, supporting music and performance in addition to the visual arts.”
As a longtime Batavian and lifelong artist, Youngdahl appreciates the accessibility of creativity throughout Kane County. “There are many art leagues scattered throughout the western suburbs and Fox Valley area,” she says. “I have recently become familiar with the Wayne Art League, where I led a class and workshop, and judged a show at the Elmhurst Artists Guild. The St. Charles Art Council recently moved into a brick-and-mortar location which allows them to host gallery shows. The Batavia Art League formed just within the past year, meeting at the Congregational Church of Batavia.”
Throughout her career, Youngdahl has created several impressive works and projects. She credits a public art initiative as one of her most challenging endeavors to date.
“I submitted my work to be considered for a mural project sponsored by Water Street Studios, called ‘Activate the Alley,’” she says. “[It] aimed to transform the alley outside the gallery into a colorful and creative space showcasing local artwork.”
project invited 10 local nonprofits to select artists to create outdoor murals illustrating each organization’s primary programs and services. After submitting her work, Youngdahl was selected by the Fox Valley Special Recreation Association.
“I realized my usual medium, colored pencil, might not translate to a large-scale mural, which was to be created on canvas,” she says. “I became very nervous about my process but was able to combine acrylic painting for the large areas of color and use colored pencils for details. I was happy with the results. The client’s reaction was ‘I LOVE this!!! It turned out perfect.’”
A metal reproduction of her artwork still hangs on the exterior wall between Water Street Studios and Kiss the Sky. The original piece belongs to the nonprofit.
For Youngdahl, art is a vital part of community and culture. “Art is a means of expression, and it is important in visually communicating thoughts, memories, feelings,” she says. “Learning to appreciate art is a way to understand others’ viewpoints, history, and other cultures. Learning to create art is an outlet to create your own ideas and sometimes create beauty.”
Lisa Youngdahl always wanted to be an artist, but she knew she would have to earn a living, and majoring in graphic design seemed to be a sensible career decision. Youngdahl’s degree is from Southern Illinois University. After working for Fortune 500 companies as an in-house designer and at an advertising agency, Youngdahl founded Resolution Creative, a visual communications studio. She created print marketing, web design and illustration. Concurrently, Youngdahl also taught graphic design at a college level, most recently at Elmhurst University. She has recently scaled back her business, retaining a few clients so she can focus on her art. She has been a Batavia resident since 1986, married to Greg Youngdahl, and raising their son, Ben.
u Pollen: 16x13.5, $450
v Bombed Out Church: 17x20.5, $600
w Fordsville: 28x20, not for sale
x Ain't God Good: 26x20, $800.
For more information on the artist of the month, head to waterstreetstudios.org or the organization’s social media pages.
