DETAILS & GUIDANCE ON UPDATING YOUR SPACE
14
Homes in 3D
Designers add depth and character without compromising style Page 16
Global Influence
Check out home design’s hottest trends Page 10
Editorʼs NOTE
For lovers of spooky and fabulous fall festivities, October is finally here!
In this edition of Kane County Magazine, we are casting the spotlight on everything homes.
Sometimes, fall is a perfect time to refresh your aesthetic before the holidays really take off and impress those in-laws with your design and décor prowess. Check out page 16 for more inspiration when it comes to giving your space the dimension it deserves. If you prefer more of a general guideline and singular style over eclectic, on page 10 you’ll find a feature breaking down some of the trendiest methods for transforming your home.
Big on saving and staying sustainable? Take on some tips for keeping that utility bill down (page 22) or repurpose and recycle the pieces you already own into something new and extraordinary (page 26). For the perfect
cherry on top, don’t forget to create your own signature home scent, an often overlooked yet powerful technique for creating the highest level of cozy (page 8).
October’s edition is full of expert advice and places to find the next unique treasure for your collection.
Happy Halloween, and as always, thank you for reading!
Kelley White, Editor
on the COVER
Lifestyle Design takes your home to the next level. Find out more on page 14!
Photo by Ryan Ocasio Photography.
Next month: And the winners are ... Discover which businesses and destinations are voted Kane County's Finest for shopping, dining, services and more!
PUBLISHER
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
SENIOR MARKETING SPECIALIST
Kane County Chronicle & Niche Publishing Tricia Walter 630-345-0066 twalter@shawmedia.com
CORRESPONDENTS
Yanira Andel, Jonathan Bilyk, Kevin Druley, Vicki Martinka Petersen, Melissa Rubalcaba Riske, Grace Rosati, Diane Krieger Spivak, Patricia Szpekowski 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
HOMES
7 BUYING OR SELLING?
Laura Basil brings expertise to real estate market
8 THE ART OF HOME FRAGRANCE
Create a signature scent for your space
10 GLOBAL STYLE
Check out the hottest trends in home design
12 DISCOVER UNIQUE GIFTS AND DÉCOR
Little Red Barn Door is full of treasures
14 A VISION FOR EVERY ROOM
Lifestyle Design helps update and freshen up your spaces
16 HOMES IN 3D
Designers add depth and character without compromising style
20 NO ROOM FOR GARDENING
Don’t give up on growing, go micro instead
22 GO GREEN AND SAVE BIG
Tips for reducing utility consumption and cost
25 ALL ORIGINAL
Discover artisan crafts and more at Red Hive Market
26 REPURPOSE AND RECYCLE
Decorate your home sustainably
27 THE GHOSTS OF ST. CHARLES
Haunted tales linger at the Hunt House
BUSINESS & CIVIC
28 SPREADING THE SHAMROCK
McNally’s Heating & Cooling expands its reach in Northern Illinois
30 BEWARE THE BAD BENEFICIARY
Think twice about who you choose to inherit your assets
LIFESTYLE
32 FLUFFY FALL
Dr. Aaron M. Jackson answers cozy season questions for you and your pet
34 ALL ABOUT THE LOVE OF THE GAME
All Star Sports Instruction develops athletic skills and appreciation for kids
36 GLOW UP FROM THE KITCHEN
Whip up your own homemade skincare using pantry staples
38 ANCHORS AWEIGH
Suburban Superdad reflects on people who keep the world running smoothly
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
40 ARTIST OF THE MONTH
Louise Miller’s ever-evolving inspiration makes for amazing work
42 GRAB A BOOKMARK
Don’t miss out on these October reads from the Geneva Public Library
43 CLIP IT OUT
Pin this calendar of events to your board for a full start to fall
Buying Selling? or
LAURA BASIL BRINGS EXPERTISE TO REAL ESTATE MARKET
Laura Basil is a trusted Fox Valley community Realtor at the KW Inspire Keller Williams office in Geneva. She is licensed in Illinois and helps individuals, families and first-time homebuyers throughout Kane, DuPage, Cook and Will Counties.
From an early age, she learned from her father that real estate was more than just buying and selling homes.
“My goal is to help people grow their wealth through smart real estate decisions and to help clients secure their future,” Basil said. “My father was a real estate developer in Minnesota, and it provided me with such a keen interest in real estate and the entire process from the time I was growing up.”
Initially, her professional life first took a turn into the corporate world. Basil honed her skills in various roles of sales, marketing and finance at various large corporations with iconic brands such as Huggies Diapers, Kleenex, Fisher Nuts and Green Giant Vegetables.
Her success led her to relocating three times in her career across the country, where she bought four homes and sold three. One of those relocations led her to Illinois.
“I moved a lot,” she noted, “but when it was time to settle down in Illinois, I fell in love with the Fox Valley area, and we moved to Batavia in 1994.
By
“Batavia offers such a laid-back lifestyle. We’d bike along the Fox River, and it just felt like home with such a great family environment. The schools are outstanding, and the move here just felt really good. I’ve watched Batavia grow over the years, but it’s been done by design and at a slower pace.”
Her commitment to Batavia led her to have a commercial building investment with mixed-uses including a restaurant, apartments and a new Airbnb business in downtown Batavia.
As a Realtor, Basil builds relationships and is proud of the referrals she receives from her clients.
“I enjoy building lifelong connections and being there for a client’s first home, their dream home, and even their retirement home," she said. "My goal is to help my sellers prepare their home to maximize the sale price and to help buyers get a great home for a fair price. It’s all about me working hard for them to successfully accomplish all of their needs.”
This also includes helping her clients to understand their qualifications and find the best lenders to assist them with their home loans.
Basil promises that even if she can’t help in a certain situation, she has a network of agents in which she can refer her clients.
“I’ll interview agents and look for their experience and integrity, which is of the utmost importance to me.”
Continually staying up to date with real estate trends is on the top of Laura’s list. She notes that “we are not dipping in values. Real estate is looking to remain stable for the next five years with normal appreciation.”
Professionally, Basil has received numerous Keller Williams recognitions, including 2023 Rookie of the Year; 2024 KW Inspire Top Agent; and in 2025 appointed to the agent leadership committee at the Geneva office.
Basil believes in community and gives back her time and expertise. She is a volunteer with the Batavia Woman’s Club, Batavia Parks Foundation and Chicago ALSAC Crew Member for St. Jude Children’s Hospital, as well as a former board member of Batavia MainStreet.
For anyone considering buying, selling or investing, Laura Basil is more than a Realtor — she’s a trusted partner who understands that the right real estate decisions can change lives.
n BASIL HOMES | KELLER WILLIAMS INSPIRE
407 S. Third St., Geneva 630-640-6999 | www.basilhomes.kw.com
Patricia Szpekowski Photo provided by Laura Basil
the art of HOME FRAGRANCE
Bring a fresh signature scent into your space
By Grace Rosati
The right fragrance can make all the difference when curating the feel of your home. At makeyour-own scent shops such as the ever-popular INLURO in Geneva, you can personalize your space in a way that leaves you saying, “There’s no place like home.”
In Batavia, Illuminate Space offers a new world of fragrance, from candles to car diffusers. The business recently welcomed a new team member named Tilly. This social media sensation is a rehabbed vintage camper that owner Jenni Zielke repurposed into a mobile candle bar, helping fuel the make-yourown scent movement.
“We have a bunch of curated oils,” explains Zielke. “They're great on their own, but people can also mix and match. Scents evoke so many memories, so I love seeing the combos people come up with.”
All of their ingredients are carefully selected for their nontoxic properties, making their products much cleaner than those you’d find on the shelves of a Target or Walmart.
When choosing a scent for your home, Zielke recommends focusing on the emotion you hope to evoke. “Think of things you like in the real world,” she says. “For example, if you drink lavender coffee every day, we can make
you a lavender coffee scented candle. Depending on what you want to feel in your home, we can help you find something.”
Illuminate Space is located in Wilson Street Mercantile in Batavia, or you can visit Tilly as she travels around Kane County at pop-up candle-pouring events. Home fragrance isn’t restricted to candles. Bath products also play a role in creating your perfectly perfumed space. Magnolia Soap and Bath Co. in St. Charles is a one-stop shop, offering everything from bar soaps to laundry detergents.
The first thing you’ll notice when
Photos by Latrice Murphy Photography and Mandy Buerster
entering is an associate pouring soaps on the store floor. “We're an open book,” states owner Mandy Buerster. “The bar is wide open. You can watch us work, so we're not hiding anything.”
This open-door policy provides comfort that commercialized stores can’t match, while also making it easy to accommodate allergies or sensitivities. Plus, you can work with experts to create your own scent with plant-based oils. For home fragrances, Buerster recommends choosing something neutral the whole family can enjoy.
Magnolia Soap and Bath Co. is “more than just soap,” as Buerster likes to say. “Every month, we feature a specialty
p Candles, soaps and room spray from Magnolia Soap and Bath Co. in St. Charles.
t Dozens of scent options are available for products sold by Illuminate Space.
Opposite page: Jennie Zielke of Illuminate Space (right) reviews options for a custom candle pouring.
soap made for a local charity. All of the proceeds from that soap go back to that organization.”
This Hope and Soap program is what Buerster is most proud of. “It’s very rewarding. If everybody helps a little bit, we can do really big things. I always say I may not get rich selling soap, but there's a lot we can do for people in the name of soap.”
Finding clean alternatives for home products can be difficult, but it’s not impossible. Visit these local businesses to shop phthalate- and paraben-free while also personalizing your home with a scent that’s uniquely yours.
Global
If you’ve ever felt torn between different design styles for your home, globally inspired design might be for you. This popular approach to home décor allows flexibility in blending items from various sources while offering a unique way to tell your story.
“Blending different design elements is what gives each space its unique character that creates a home,” said Kristie Sandoval, lead designer at Alaric Designs in St. Charles.
Globally inspired design also offers the chance to create a space that feels personal.
“Celebrating diverse cultures by blending handmade textiles and natural materials, along with meaningful objects from around the world, adds personal history to a space. You won’t find these elements in a big-box store or catalog, which makes your home uniquely yours,” said Carolyn Soltesz, owner and designer at Style It Home in Geneva.
Ready to give this trend a try? Here are some popular styles and tips on how to achieve the look at home.
l GRANDMILLENNIAL
Grandmillennial design takes traditional elements often associated with grandmothers’ homes and blends them with modern patterns, bold colors and fresh ways of displaying vintage furniture. Mixing and matching is key: a striped chair beside an inherited brass lamp, paired with bold, modern wallpaper, can all share the same room.
“This highly personalized style is also sustainable,
By Vicki Martinka Petersen • Photos by RCG Photography (left) and Style It Home/Carolyn Soltesz (above)
l A sunroom inspired by Japandi style
l Examples of a grandmillenial bedroom (left) and grandmillennial powder room (right). A mix of old and new keeps the spaces interesting and fresh.
Global Style
with a personal touch
encouraging the use of existing pieces, which makes it a budget-friendly way to update your traditional home,” Soltesz said.
l SCANDINAVIAN
Similar to midcentury modern, Scandinavian design emphasizes clean lines, simplicity and minimal ornamentation. The look connects people to nature without being outdoors.
“A focus on craftsmanship, warm colors and uncluttered spaces sets the tone for a room that represents the Scandinavian design concept,” Sandoval said.
To achieve the look at home, she recommends painting walls a soft linen white, choosing décor in natural materials and decluttering with an emphasis on minimalism.
l JAPANDI
A minimalist blend of Japanese aesthetics and Scandinavian design, Japandi emphasizes simplicity, functionality, natural materials and a sense of calm. The look often features light wood tones and airy spaces that bring the outdoors in.
“Japandi promotes a serene and uncluttered living environment, with a focus on natural materials and
sustainable practices that align with ecoconscious living,” Soltesz said.
To create your own calming oasis, start by decluttering. Choose pieces in light wood, bamboo, linen, walnut or ceramics. Round out the look with airy modern art, greenery and a neutral palette.
l BOHEMIAN ECLECTICISM
Bohemian eclecticism ties together whimsy, tranquility and cultural influence. Think carved wooden wall hangings or bright, patterned curtains.
“Don’t be afraid to mix more than one fun, bright color in the same space. Many objects from India, with their ornate details and bold hues, are giving a Bohemian feel right now,” Sandoval said.
Whichever style you try, both Soltesz and Sandoval suggest starting small before committing to bigger purchases. Begin with items from your travels, family heirlooms, local artisan markets, estate sales or smaller shops.
“Remember that authenticity and personal connection are key, but careful editing is needed to create a mix that feels peaceful and comforting. The goal is to design a space that reflects your personality and stories,” Soltesz said.
Discover Unique
Gifts & Decor at Little Red Barn Door
By Vicki Martinka Petersen
21 S. 3rd St., Geneva
10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday- Saturday
11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday-Monday 630-402-0072 www.littleredbarndoor.com
When Sylvia Torres found herself to be the mother of older children, little did she realize this parenting milestone would eventually lead to a professional career change as well.
For 20 years, she did accounting and human resources for her family’s steel company. As her children got older, Torres began searching antique stores and markets to redecorate her home.
Unsure what to do with purchases she didn’t like once she brought them home, people encouraged her to sell the items online. Eventually Torres ended up with a following and began a side hustle with an online store. That’s when her husband suggested she open her own physical store.
Wanting something near her home in St. Charles, Torres started Little Red Barn Door in a 600-square-foot space on the second floor of the Berry House in downtown Geneva.
She stayed there until 2022, when a bigger space down the street became available.
Little Red Barn Door is a boutique featuring home decor, florals, accessories and thoughtful gifts.
“I try to find items that are unique. I don’t want to carry products that other stores carry,” says Torres.
One of her goals is to have Little Red Barn Door get back to its roots, offering antiques and architectural salvage — decor that comes from old buildings. The shop also offers a variety of gift options such as slippers, jewelry, little notebooks depicting the names of Fox Valley towns, tea towels and ornaments. Torres recently expanded her offerings with the addition of light apparel including T-shirts, dresses, cardigans and socks.
“Home decor is fine, but I also want to help people find a gift for mom, sister or friend,” Torres says. The fall collection at Little Red Barn
Door includes seasonal-scented room sprays, Halloween-themed art and pumpkin dishes. For the special youngsters in your life, pick up a Halloween rice treat pop or giant Halloween marshmallow pop to tuck inside their trick-or-treat bucket.
The last few years, Little Red Barn Door sponsored a home in Geneva’s annual Holiday House Tour. As part of the festive fun, the team works with the homeowners on ways they can decorate the house, including incorporating any holiday decorations the homeowners own into the design.
Inspired by what they see in the holiday home, Torres says customers often head over to Little Red Barn Door looking for featured items to replicate the look at their own home.
In the future, Torres hopes to offer events and workshops at the shop like she used to do at her former warehouse space.
Photos provided by Sylvia Torres
LITTLE RED BARN DOOR
A VISION FOR EVERY ROOM
By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske | Photos provided by Lifestyle Design
In every home, there’s one space that needs attention. Sometimes it’s the kitchen that feels too small, the desire for a walk-in shower or the lack of pantry space. Most homeowners see these as hurdles, but for Bobbi Alderfer, they’re the most interesting part of her job.
“Every job presents new challenges, but that’s the fun part of the job,” Alderfer said.
Alderfer is the owner and principal designer of Lifestyle Design, a fullservice interior design firm based in downtown Geneva. She and her team have helped clients with residential and commercial projects, from a kitchen facelift or bath remodel to providing a cohesive design aesthetic for new home construction.
Alderfer said the first step in every project is listening to clients describe their vision and the style they want to convey. This fall, Lifestyle Design’s team is helping a client who loves to cook and entertain but finds her condo kitchen constrictive. In another project, the team is designing details of a new home under construction and an addition to a residence on the Fox River.
“I like to say we are a stress reliever for our clients because if there’s a problem, we will work together to find the best solution, without losing functionality or style,” Alderfer said. Her team includes lead designer Kate Steel, a Geneva native; associate designers Melissa Fisher and Lydia Lando; and the newest addition, Jessica Fredericks, also a Geneva native who recently spent time in Italy.
“I always encourage my team to travel,” Alderfer said. “Travel is so important for inspiration. It’s very important to be exposed to the ideas and history.”
Her team brings their travels and experiences to clients, whether it’s a small renovation or designing a
new construction home.
“Design fatigue is real,” Alderfer said. “When building a new home it should be very exciting, but the myriad of decisions that need to be made can be overwhelming. A designer will zero in on choices and show you the best options to create a cohesive, beautiful new home.”
The team has helped clients in Chicago, across Kane County and even out of state, including renovations to a lake house in Wisconsin.
Their first commercial design project was the specialty bar Alchemist on Third Street in Geneva. From the custom wine wall to the banquette seating along the windows, the team found creative ways to insert function, such as storage space, within the beautiful design.
“The upper bar is designed to provide lots of storage on the bartender’s side, while looking elegant on the restaurant side,” Alderfer said.
Another standout feature is the lighting throughout the space, from the bar to the bathrooms.
“Lighting is so important. You have to get the lighting right because it sets the mood for the entire space,” Alderfer said.
From historic spaces to new construction, residential to retail, Alderfer said the team at Lifestyle Design loves creating spaces for clients. In nearly 25 years in business, Alderfer has worked with many repeat clients, whether it was another room renovation, a new residence or helping their grown children design homes of their own. And while they are designers, these ladies aren’t afraid to jump in and get messy when needed.
With a laugh, Alderfer said, “Designing functional spaces often requires taking down walls.”
HOURS: SUN: 11 - 3
SAT 10 - 5
3DHomes in
Designers add depth and character without compromising style
By Chris Walker • Photos by Margaret Rajic and Y&B Interiors
rowing tired of the look and feel of your home, but unsure what to do about it, can wear on a homeowner.
Many don’t even know where to begin when it comes to adding depth and character without whitewashing everything — but interior designers do. They are committed to making indoor spaces functional, safe and beautiful, with options that are virtually limitless.
"Depth and character live in the mix — the mix of materials, textures, layers and styles,” says Shannon Peppeard, principal designer of Peppeard Design in St. Charles. “Think weathered wood with sleek brass, linen with stone, matte with glossy — it's the contrast that gives a home soul. A home without contrast is like a story without a plot — everything blends, but nothing really stands out. I am always mixing old with new and rough with refined in the spaces I design, to keep the eye curious!”
Think weathered wood with sleek brass, linen with stone, matte with glossy — it's the contrast that gives a home soul.
— Shannon Peppeard, Peppeard Design
Pops of color keep a room from feeling bland, but texture is what invites you in. Think rugs, blankets, pillows, art and good lighting.
— Dawn Bach, Eye to Eye Interiors
Dawn Bach, owner of Eye to Eye Interiors in Downers Grove, said something as simple as a color change can make a huge difference. It’s also a transformation that can be done affordably.
"Pops of color keep a room from feeling bland, but texture is what invites you in,” Bach says. “Think rugs, blankets, pillows, art and good lighting. They all work together to add character and depth to a room."
For some, a concern about interior design is whether changes could hurt resale value or make a home harder to sell. But why focus on resale when the goal is to improve your home?
“Many clients ask me if bold color choices or quirky details are bad for resale value, to which I always respond that this is their home, and they are the ones who live in it and see it every day,” says Anna Morello, owner and lead designer of Cosmic Design Studio in Batavia. “Why not make it something you love?”
Morello recently completed a kitchen
remodel in Campton Hills.
“This kitchen is a happy medium of leaning into color and keeping a balance of neutrals,” she says. “We went with a light blue for the base cabinets and kept the overall feeling more mature with the white upper cabinets and backsplash tile. The entryway has a small closet converted into a mudroom space open to the kitchen, so we wanted something to coordinate with the blue cabinets.
We went with a deep, rich blue grey to make that space feel more intentional and purposeful when surrounded by creamy white walls. Color brings life and personality to a space. Neutral doesn't always have to mean white or grey, which can often look stark and uninviting in a home. When I do use whites, I like to go for softer shades that add warmth to a space.”
Those looking to enhance their living spaces may not be able to do it all themselves, but with the help of interior designers like these, they can create a stunning home that’s uniquely their own.
GREAT FOOD & CRAFT BEER
No room for a garden?
TRY A
RO GARDEN MIC
Maximize your growing space with containers, indoors and outdoors
By Diane Krieger Spivak
Whether you live in an apartment, have a small yard or just don’t want the hassle of a full-size garden, there is still a way to exercise your green thumb.
Try micro gardening. It requires only a small space, some containers and sunlight, and, in return, will bestow upon you sustainable, homegrown, delicious food that beats the pants off the store-bought stuff. It’s also cheaper and pesticide-free.
Melissa Petrole’s mother switched to micro gardening as she was getting older and no longer had space for a typical garden. “She started growing all of her veggies in containers,” says Petrole, who co-owns Countryside Flower Shop, Nursery and Garden Center, in Elburn. “There’s no weeding and you can put your tomato cages in there, so everything grows up.
“We were just talking about micro gardening,” says Petrole. “One of our customers who buys our veggies every year grows them for the fair and he wins awards. He just has a little patio outside.”
What to grow? Besides veggies and flowers, herbs have proven to be popular in micro gardens. “There’s nothing better than cooking with fresh herbs,” says Petrole. “We do an herb program here at Countryside. It’s very nice to make up your own little planter right there on your deck. It smells nice, and you can harvest it whenever you want. When it starts to get cold you can bring it in your house if you want to keep it going.”
Countryside also offers workshops on good companion plants for veggies.
If you're new to container gardening it’s important to note that certain plants need certain amounts of sunlight, notes Linda Miller, team lead at Heinz Brothers Garden Center, in St. Charles. “If you have a north facing apartment and it never gets direct sunlight you are not going to have a whole lot of success with certain vegetables because they need 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight. You’ll have better results in a south-facing patio where you get direct sun.”
The type of container you use is equally important, says Miller. “If you’re trying to grow vegetables, generally, you’ll need something with a deep pot, and you’ll need potting soil, not topsoil,” says Miller. “You might use an organic fertilizer or fungicide, depending on your comfort level.” Always read labels when growing vegetables, however, notes Miller.
Miller recommends tomatoes, especially cherry tomatoes, and peppers as some of the easiest veggies to grow in a pot, if you’re a beginner.
Watering is also critical to micro gardening success, since anything in a pot requires more frequent watering than a plant in the ground. “Watering depends on the pot you put it in and the temperature outside, " says Miller. “If it’s 80 degrees and in sun you may end up watering twice a day, because generally pots will dry out, especially if it’s breezy. If it’s a clay
Photos provided by Countryside Flower Shop
GO
Green and save
By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske
Try these tips to reduce utility consumption and be earth-friendly around your home
It used to be called “environmentally friendly,” the idea that one could take steps to reduce waste and be more energy efficient to show love for the planet. For people like Sarra Hinshaw, sustainability manager for Kane County, it’s more than caring for the environment. These days, greener practices can also help homeowners and businesses save money.
Photos provided by Beth Peluse and Sarra Hinshaw
“Saving money speaks to a greater volume of people,” Hinshaw said.
High water bills from watering the lawn? Hinshaw is part of a Kane County team managing a pilot program to study water conservation with a smart indoor/outdoor sprinkler timer. She is seeking qualified participants to test the product, which promises to reduce water use and lower costs.
Hinshaw, who holds a doctorate in aquatic biogeochemistry, said she felt compelled to do more than research, which led her to Kane County. A growing number of northern Illinois communities and counties now employ sustainability managers.
Hinshaw said her days vary from collaborating with agencies and developing programs to supporting residents and local businesses.
“I love this role,” she added.
Opportunities both big and small exist to reduce energy consumption. Throughout the year, Hinshaw and her team host educational programs to help residents and business owners navigate costs and benefits, from solar panels and attic insulation to the best light bulbs and low-flow toilets.
Small changes around the home can add up. Hinshaw said a smart thermostat is another simple way to save. These devices, which can be controlled by phone, cost less than $100 and are often easy for homeowners to install.
“Mine has saved me quite a bit of money,” Hinshaw added.
Rebates can also help defray costs. Nicor Gas offers several, including for energyefficient furnaces and water heaters, sealing and insulation, and even smart thermostat installation.
Another inexpensive idea: add insulation behind outlet or light switch panels near windows and doors. For the price of a cup or two of coffee, homeowners can buy pre-cut foam insulation to slip behind the plates throughout their homes.
“Adding insulation behind the light switch or outlet can be small, but it prevents air leakage,” Hinshaw said.
As a new homeowner, Hinshaw was excited to complete her own energy audit and make improvements inside. Outside, she turned to The Conservation Foundation.
For more than 50 years, the not-for-profit has served
northeastern Illinois, including DuPage, Kane, Kendall and Will counties, as well as projects in Cook, DeKalb, Grundy and LaSalle counties.
The foundation supports earth-friendly landscaping and native gardens. Beth Peluse, program manager for Conservation@ Home, said native plants offer multiple benefits, including cost savings.
“Most native plants are perennials, so they will come back year after year,” Peluse said, rather than needing to purchase and plant new annuals each season.
Native plants in northern Illinois also have deep root systems, which help them survive dry spells. When it rains, they absorb water and store it in the soil, reducing flooding.
“Our soil in this area typically is hard clay and our plants have adapted. They actually start to break up the hard clay and add moisture to the soil,” Peluse said.
She continued, “So it is a much more costeffective way to reduce yard flooding and it’s pretty.”
Along with her educational work, Peluse enjoys visiting yards. Homeowners can
register for a free landscape assessment from Peluse and her colleague Jim Kleinwachter, who provide guidance on incorporating native plants. Participants may even qualify for a Conservation@Home or Conservation@Work certification.
“It can seem overwhelming on where to start, how to prioritize and we want to help people to get an idea of what works, what will have the most impact,” Peluse said. “Every little bit counts.”
Peluse and Kleinwachter travel throughout northern Illinois. This year, when they opened registration for yard assessments, there was a 90-person waiting list.
She recommends visiting locally owned plant nurseries to help identify and purchase native plants, noting that staff often specialize in them and carry larger selections. The Conservation Foundation’s website offers a list of recommended nurseries, residential landscape designers and trained landscapers.
Adding native plants to a yard — or even to container gardens — supports bees, butterflies and birds, while also saving money.
original all
Discover unique artisan crafts and decor at Red Hive Market
By Vicki Martinka Petersen | Photos provided by Red Hive Market
When starting her own business, Bridget Johnson named it Red Hive Market because she wanted to create a very vibrant place that’s buzzing with energy and showcasing the unique pieces created by talented people.
“I really wanted it to be a home for all these artistic individuals,” says Johnson, who co-owns the shop in Batavia with her husband, Tom Freeman.
Typically, more than 30 artisans showcase their wares at Red Hive Market. The collective of artisans includes a retired battalion chief who creates woodworking heirloom pieces and a fiber artist who uses felt to craft a little neighborhood of felted gourds.
“These gourds have the most incredible expressions and are named after people the artist knows, complete with bios,” Johnson says.
Many artists upcycle old pieces into something new. For instance, a new artisan coming to Red Hive Market in October recycles discarded leather belts and purses into leather jewelry cuffs.
Over at Not Your Grandma’s Aprons, a former school secretary takes articles
of clothing like vintage fabrics and her husband’s old shirts and ties, then makes them into purses.
One thing that’s special about Red Hive Market is the way artisans collaborate with one another. One example is some of the purses made by Not Your Grandma’s Aprons feature buttons made by Pots on Fox, which creates buttons on a pottery wheel.
“It’s such a wonderful way to showcase the work of two artisans in one piece,” Johnson says.
Since items at the shop are constantly changing, customers never know what treasures they’ll find when they come in.
“I always tell people if you see something that captures your heart, buy it now because the next time you come in it might not be there,” says Johnson.
The one constant customers can expect is finding unique items at Red Hive Market. Johnson strives to find items that are heirloom quality.
“I’m always trying to find artisans who
can bring in unique and different products to keep our customers excited to come in and wander around seeing what’s new at Red Hive Market. You never know what you’re going to find,” Johnson adds.
After an expansion in 2022, Red Hive Market doubled in size to 3,000 square feet, offering even more shopping opportunities for customers.
In addition to the eclectic mix of handcrafted treasures, Red Hive Market also offers events and workshops to give customers hands-on experience to try their hand at artistic crafts, such as making their own soaps, pumpkin painting and candle pouring. Be sure to stay up-to-date on the latest arrivals and upcoming classes by following Red Hive Market on Facebook.
Red Hive Market is located at 6 W. Wilson St. in historic downtown Batavia. It’s open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with some nighttime hours during the holidays. The holiday season kicks off on Saturday, Nov. 1, with a Cookies and Cocoa Celebration. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be on hand as customers get a jump on their holiday shopping.
go natural Repurpose, upcycle,
HOW TO DECORATE YOUR HOME SUSTAINABLY
By Diane Krieger Spivak • Photos provided by Debra Phillips
hether you’re looking to decorate your space on a shoestring or you're passionate about the environment, there are a lot of ways to introduce sustainable, eco-friendly furnishings into your home.
One fun and oh-so-inexpensive way to get new furniture is to get old furniture and upcycle it.
Debra Phillips, proprietor and senior designer at SG Geneva Scentimental Gardens recently helped a young couple furnish their first house. “We talked about repurposing, which runs the gamut of found treasure, maybe vintage or antique, and how can you fit it into today’s environment,” says Phillips. Such pieces are typically higher quality and craftsmanship than new furniture, and can be much less expensive, and in some cases free.
Recycled materials such as reclaimed wood can be made into new pieces. For example, wood pallets can be transformed into various pieces of furniture with a little imagination.
Try upcycling a knotty pine chest with lacquer paint or chalk paint or strip it and wax it, suggests Phillips. Then add new hardware. There’s satisfaction in creating something “new” while preventing it from going into the landfill.
Phillips encourages people to think outside the box when repurposing. “Ask, “What can I do with this?’” says Phillips, who turned an eel cage she snagged at an antique show into a “very industrial looking” chandelier. If you’re not lucky enough to inherit some pieces for free, check out antique shops, second-hand stores, flea markets and estate sales. “Those are good options for finding something you might be able to turn into a treasure,” says Phillips.
“Another bugaboo of mine is to keep things out of the landfill,” notes Phillips, who emphasizes that upholstery is one area not to skimp on. “You want to know how this chair or sofa is manufactured; what’s under the pretty fabric. When buying new or used, keeping your decor eco-friendly means avoiding cheaply made pieces made of questionable materials.
“Upholstered furniture should be stuffed with down or cotton, as opposed to foam, which is also made of chemicals,” she says. “Good upholstery won't have the chemical foam in it.” Phillips also cautions to look for organic rather than polyester fabrics and to avoid glue and staples for sustainable upholstered furniture.
“Look for screws instead,” she says.
“Mixing new with vintage shows a collective look in your home,” says Phillips.
Phillips also advises using natural materials for window treatments and pillows. Look for old grain sacks, wool rugs, cane and wicker furniture, iron, wood and leather. “Organic, natural materials really make a room,” says Phillips. Zinc is another popular material, which has a soft gray blue hue. You can see it in side tables, lamps, and big zinc pots for faux plants indoors, notes Phillips.
“What makes for an interesting home is not everything purchased brand new,” says Phillips. “It’s that collective look with something that speaks to you. Think about sustainability vs instant pretty.”
Photos (top from left): Side tables crafted from Hermès boxes; a chandelier created from an eel cage; a table made from a French baguette storage container.
GHOSTS
OF ST. CHARLES
Haunted tales linger at the Hunt House
By Kevin Druley
St. Charles History Museum archivist and curator Eric Krupa finds that “old ghost stories” about the town frequently “capture everyone’s interest.”
A scary-good place to begin the lowercase “h” hunt for spooky lore in St. Charles is with a family who spelled “Hunt” with a capital letter.
Constructed in 1841, the Hunt House at 304 Cedar St. is recognized as the oldest brick building in St. Charles and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Bela Thaxter Hunt, one of St. Charles’ first settlers, built the home in the Greek Revival style. Nearly two centuries later, some believe the spirits of previous owners still linger — including one not named “Hunt.” The home remained in the Hunt family for multiple generations until Jane Dunham purchased it from Bela’s granddaughter, Effie, in 1980.
Dunham carried out her vision to convert the home into a museum that celebrated her family history and that of St. Charles and Wayne. The Dunham-Hunt
Museum featured an array of artifacts, and Dunham herself offered a unique backstory. She was born in the French-influenced landmark known as Dunham Castle, at Dunham and Army Trail roads in Wayne.
Over the years, some of her personal items reportedly went missing, which fueled speculation that Dunham haunted her former home after her death in 1995.
“She did like to talk a little, let’s just say that, to spice things up. But I never got to meet her,” said Krupa, who was raised in the Tri-Cities. “Lots of people around here knew her.”
Might Dunham have communed with Hunts both living and deceased? Legend has it that the funeral of a young Hunt boy was held in the home, as his death predated funeral parlors. That story gave rise to the belief that members of the Hunt family have lingered in the house long after it left their ownership.
“When I worked in the house, there was always that sense that something’s right behind you,” Julie Bunke, former director of the St. Charles Heritage Museum, told the Kane County Chronicle in 2011.
Still, Bunke never felt frightened while giving house tours.
“The only thing that I can explain,” she said, “is that with many historic homes, people lived and died in their homes.”
An account from the April 30, 1931, edition of the St. Charles Chronicle suggests that even walking near older buildings could unsettle some townsfolk.
“Those old ghost tales have caused me, when I was a kid, to take to the middle or far side of the road when passing by the old Universalist Church at corner Fifth and Cedar Avenues or old Tremont Block at corner Main and Fifth, especially after twilight or dark.”
So read a story headlined, “St. Charlesites of 60 Years Ago Were Afraid of Ghosts.”
Are residents still fearful today? That depends on whom you ask — and where.
The curiosity endures, at least. Krupa confirms that he often gets questions about “this old and fun stuff,” even outside of the spooky season.
| Photos provided by Eric Krupa
Best
SHAMROCK Spreading the
You can never have too much of a good thing.
Now, even more homeowners and business owners can turn to McNally’s Heating and Cooling. This leader in residential and commercial HVAC service, repairs and installations has expanded into Crystal Lake with the acquisition of another HVAC company. That’s right — the St. Charles-based company that was voted the No. 1 heating and air conditioning company in Kane County now has another location in Crystal Lake.
“We used to be hyper-focused on the Tri-Cities,” said Brian McNally, owner of McNally’s Heating and Cooling. “With the purchase of another company, we’ve expanded our footprint and are in northern Illinois now with a second site in Crystal Lake. We’ve spread our wings a bit, which allows us to reach more people. Now we’re out as far as Aurora and Elmhurst up to McHenry.”
The company’s growth stems from its reputation for excellence and commitment to doing the job right, time and time again. McNally’s technicians are trained and experienced, arrive on time and ensure each job is done correctly by running systems through several tests. When you get an estimate from McNally’s, it won’t change from that original bid, offering customers peace of mind.
“We really hire quality people and instill our standards in them to continue to always do the right thing, which is what’s best for the customer,” McNally said. “It’s kind of an integrity thing before profit mentality, but it’s what drives our business. We do whatever it takes to makes things right for the customer by any means necessary.”
Being named the top heating and air conditioning company in the area was welcome news — and the fifth time McNally’s has received the honor speaks volumes about the perennial leader in HVAC service in the Tri-Cities.
“This is affirmation that all our hard work has paid off,” McNally said. “We’re honored to receive the award. Excellence like this is what we continue to strive for. It’s a sense of accomplishment that what you’re doing every day is making a difference. "We love being able to give back and help, so it’s a reciprocal thing. We love being able to help in the community, and we’ve gained a lot of community support.”
With summer’s heat fading and colder months ahead, now is the time to schedule McNally’s for professional furnace maintenance. McNally recommends seasonal maintenance: the furnace in the fall and the air conditioner in the spring.
“You can avoid big problems by catching them when they're small issues,” he said. “Our professional HVAC technicians will inspect, clean and tune up your systems so you and your family are comfortable. This will extend the lifespan of your systems and minimize the chance of major breakdowns during extreme conditions.”
In addition to heating and cooling services, McNally’s offers 24/7 emergency HVAC service, air purification and air duct cleaning.
McNally's Heating and Cooling 3491 Swenson Ave., St. Charles 630-363-9067 • www.mcnallyhvac.com
By Chris Walker • Photos provided by McNally's Heating and Cooling
2025 Best of the Fox Winners
McNally's Heating and Cooling expands its coverage in Northern Illinois
Beware the
Bad Beneficiary
n Beneficiary: A person or entity who is the recipient of or will receive some or all proceeds of money or property held by the current owner upon a specified event or condition. Such vehicles as life insurance policies, inheritances, annuities or trusts may require that a beneficiary be named.
n Contingent Beneficiary: Should the primary beneficiary predecease the account owner, a contingent beneficiary if so designated would be next in line.
When an investor opens a qualified account – a new 401(k) account, new IRA, new life insurance policy, etc. – an important part of that process is to designate a beneficiary. In most cases, the account owner is required to provide a primary beneficiary and is able to provide a contingent beneficiary as well. Unfortunately, this may be the last time the account owner thinks about the beneficiary (or beneficiaries) that have been designated, and this can lead to disastrous consequences.
“What problem could possibly arise?” you may ask. Consider Bob. Like many people today, as Bob honed his skills over his career, he pursued newer and better opportunities, resulting in Bob changing employers about every five years. As happens often, Bob was so busy changing jobs that, in each case, he left his 401(k) account back with his former employer.
Each of his “orphaned” 401(k) accounts were all but forgotten over time as he figured he would just “clean this up” later when he approached retirement. Along the way, Bob got divorced and never went back to update his beneficiary designations despite remarrying. Unfortunately, there was a terrible accident that claimed Bob’s life. When presented with the death certificate, the custodians of each of his “orphaned” 401(k) accounts dutifully made the payout to the designated beneficiary, who was his ex-spouse.
What can then ensue is a legal battle between the ex-spouse and others like a subsequent spouse who believe they should be entitled to those assets. Not pretty.
Another common scenario involves the death of a spouse. For example, Susan’s husband Todd dies of cancer, leaving Susan and their
two children as survivors. Susan continues to work and several years later marries Henry, and they have a child together. Susan had an IRA rollover from a job change prior to Todd’s death and never updated her beneficiary. Susan predeceases Henry. Who does her IRA distribute out to? Her surviving spouse, Henry? Todd’s and her two children?
Are you sensing how messy this can become?
When there is not a clear surviving beneficiary, the distribution typically is based on the Custodian’s Order Rules. This is spelled out in the Customer Account Agreement and can vary by custodian. It may not mirror the wishes of the deceased account owner. Seemingly benevolent parties who felt they were rightful beneficiaries can soon find themselves mired in legal proceedings that seldom result in a “winner.” That’s why we say, “Beware the bad beneficiary.”
We can’t encourage you strongly enough to periodically confirm that your designated primary and contingent beneficiaries are consistent with your wishes. If you are not sure how to do this task, call your financial advisor for assistance, or you can call our team and we’ll be happy to help.
Authored by Tom McCartney, 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. Any opinions are those of My Advisor & Planner and not necessarily those of Raymond James. Every Investor’s situation is unique, and you should consider your investment objectives, risks and costs before making an investment. Investing involves risk and you may incur a profit or loss regardless of strategy selected, including diversification and asset allocation. 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.
Father. Business owner. Jazz fanatic.
Your unique life, planned.
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.
with your pets & FALL Enjoying
October is a time of pumpkins on porches, crunchy leaves underfoot and cozy nights by the fire. Families will decorate their homes and prepare for trick-or-treating as pet owners often ask how to include their furry friends in the seasonal fun, without putting them at risk. Here are some common questions I have heard over the course of my veterinary career.
Q: Can my pet have a piece of my Halloween candy?
A: Unfortunately, no, I don’t recommend it. While it’s tempting to share, many common Halloween treats are dangerous for pets. Chocolate can cause vomiting, diarrhea and even heart problems, especially in dogs. Sugar-free candies often contain xylitol, which can cause a sudden drop in blood sugar or liver failure. Raisins, sometimes found in trail mix or mini snack boxes, can trigger kidney issues in dogs. And let’s not forget the wrappers — foil and plastic can create blockages if swallowed.
If you want your pet to celebrate too, stock up on petsafe treats. Many bakeries and pet stores sell festive pumpkin-shaped biscuits for dogs or catnip toys for our feline friends.
Q: Is it safe to dress up my pet in a costume?
A: My answer is that it depends on your pet’s personality. Some dogs and cats tolerate costumes well
HALLOWEEN
and may even enjoy the extra attention. Others may feel stressed or trapped when dressed up. A good rule: the costume should never restrict your pet’s ability to move, breathe, bark or see. Check for small parts that could be chewed off and swallowed.
If your pet seems anxious, skip the costume and try something low-stress like a festive collar, bandana or pumpkin-themed harness. Another fun alternative is creating a “backdrop” for photos: set up a basket of pumpkins or a hay bale and let your pet pose naturally instead of dressing them up. This way, you still get that photo without the discomfort.
Q: My dog goes crazy with the doorbell ringing. What should I do on Halloween night?
A: Trick-or-treat traffic can overwhelm even the most easygoing pets. Constant doorbell rings and costumed visitors can cause barking, pacing or even escape attempts. One of the best strategies is to create a “quiet room.” Place your pet in a quiet space away from the front door with their bed, favorite toys and maybe even a food puzzle. Soft music or a white-noise machine can help mask the noise outside.
For dogs who are especially anxious, consider greeting trick-or-treaters from the driveway or porch to reduce doorbell activity. Some families also find it helpful to use a calming pheromone diffuser or a snug-fitting anxiety vest. You want to reduce stimulation and
give your pet a safe place to relax while the festivities unfold.
Q: Are fall decorations dangerous?
A: They can be. Traditional jack-o’-lanterns with real candles are a fire hazard around wagging tails and curious cats. Fake cobwebs can entangle pets (and also wildlife if used outdoors). Electrical cords from string lights can be tempting to chew, especially for puppies and kittens. Small decorations such as plastic spiders, mini pumpkins and rubber bats can become choking hazards.
Safer alternatives include battery-operated LED candles for pumpkins, larger decorations that aren’t swallowable and keeping cords taped down or out of reach.
Q: Can pets eat pumpkin?
A: Yes, in moderation. Plain, cooked pumpkin (without sugar, spices or butter) can be a healthy snack for dogs and cats. It’s high in fiber and can even help with mild digestive issues. A spoonful of pumpkin mixed into your dog’s kibble is a great treat.
What you’ll want to avoid is pumpkin pie filling. It usually contains sugar, nutmeg, cloves and other spices that can cause stomach upset or worse. Also skip the raw pumpkin skin and large amounts of seeds — they’re hard to digest and may cause gastrointestinal blockages.
Q: What about outdoor fall hazards?
A: Fall weather brings its own set of risks. Antifreeze is used more often as the temperatures drop and is extremely toxic. Just a few drops can be fatal, and it has a sweet taste that attracts pets. Always clean up spills and store containers tightly sealed.
Rodenticides (mouse and rat poisons) are also more commonly used as rodents move indoors. Unfortunately, these poisons are just as deadly to our pets as they are to rodents. If you must use them, place them well out of reach or, better yet, explore pet-safe alternatives like snap traps or professional pest control services.
Don’t forget yard hazards. Mushrooms that sprout up in damp fall conditions can be poisonous if eaten. Seasonal plants like mums, holly berries and some decorative gourds can cause vomiting or diarrhea. Indoors, fireplaces and space heaters pose burn risks if pets cozy up too close, so use screens or barriers.
lightweight mini pumpkins on the floor – they often bat them like toys.
• Photo ops: Visit a pet-friendly pumpkin patch or apple orchard.
• DIY fall toys: Fill a small cardboard box with shredded paper, toss in a few kibble pieces and let your cat dig. It mimics hunting and keeps them busy on chilly evenings.
Q: Is October a good time to adopt a pet?
A: Absolutely. October is nationally recognized as Adopt-a-Dog Month, but cats, rabbits and small exotics and reptiles also need homes. Fall can be an ideal time to adopt because families are often spending more time indoors. A new pet gets extra attention and bonding time before the hustle and bustle of the holiday season begins.
If you’re considering adoption, remember it’s a lifelong commitment. But the rewards companionship, joy, and the chance to save a life are immeasurable.
Final Thoughts
Q: How can I make fall more fun for my pet?
A: This is the best part! Fall offers plenty of opportunities to create safe, memorable moments with your pets. Here are a few favorites:
• Leaf pile adventures: Many dogs love to leap into piles of leaves. Just make sure the pile is clean and free of sticks, mold or yard chemicals.
• Pumpkin play: Hollow out a pumpkin and stuff it with treats for a natural puzzle toy. For cats, roll
Fall is a season of tradition and togetherness. With a little preparation, you can keep your pets safe while including them in the fun. From pumpkin-themed enrichment games to cuddle sessions by the fire, October offers plenty of opportunities to strengthen the bond between you and your pets.
This Halloween, while the ghosts, goblins, and ghouls are out, keep your furry family members safe, happy and part of the celebration. Pets make every season brighter and a little less scary.
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.
Board Certified Veterinary Surgeon Bringing Expert, Compassionate Care to your
Primary Care Veterinary Clinic
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.
All about the
LOVE of the GAME
All Star Sports Instruction develops athletic skills and appreciation at a young age
Behind every high school athlete is the parent who remembers how that same child once played in the dirt and thought the best part of sports was the post-game ice cream.
Youth sports is as much about fun as it is helping each child learn the mechanics of the game, and whether they’re ready for parent-tot class or eager to develop their skills, the St. Charles Park District staff aims to offer programs for all ages and levels.
Providing such a range of programming is possible through a number of partnerships, including All Star Sports Instruction based in the Fox Valley. Owner Derek Smith, a high school and college athlete, launched the business in 2001 and has grown it to serve more than 60 park districts and park departments in Northern Illinois including St. Charles, Batavia and Geneva
“Our job is to make it fun for them,”
By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske
Smith said. “We want to get kids to like sports and give them options to learn and play.”
All Star Sports Instruction provides professional coaches who lead classes and leagues within park district and park department settings.
Photos provided by St. Charles Park District
For Smith, the biggest focus isn’t winning or mastering the game. Smith said his focus is creating a positive experience.
“We offer the opportunity to learn the sport,” Smith said. “We want them to blossom into a love of the sport.”
With more children entering travel sports at a younger age, Smith wanted to provide an alternative that combines professional instruction without the financial and time commitments that travel sports requires.
For Smith, it isn’t about opposition to travel sports. In fact, he also runs Illinois Savage Baseball, a travel baseball league. He understands first-hand the commitment to travel sports, financially and time too.
And Smith knows that travel sports isn’t for everyone. Some players just want to have fun, be with their friends, even try a new sport for the first time. Through partnerships like All Star Sports
Instruction, a middle school-age child can try basketball for the first time, with a professional coach leading a practice.
Smith goes beyond vetting his coaching staff, providing them the training and the tools to be a leader on the field and in their community too. A large percentage of his coaches have a sports background and he added, a large number have made a career at All Star Sports Instruction.
Growing up in Barrington, Smith played golf and baseball. He had an opportunity to play baseball at Southern Illinois University. Having the opportunity to explore different sports can build a child’s overall athleticism, Smith said.
With the St. Charles Park District, children can explore sports from basketball to flag football, soccer, fencing, archery and even horsemanship and ice hockey.
“Youth sports are still a valuable asset at any age, but for a child starting out, it’s about much more than the game,” said Melissa Caine, assistant superintendent of recreation for the St. Charles Park District.
“It’s about meeting new friends too.”
Caine is the proud aunt who remembers watching her nephew playing in the dirt during his T-Ball games. Today, that child plays on a high-level sports team. Each child’s journey through athletics is unique, and for Caine’s role with the park district, she wants to see every child have a chance to have fun, absorb encouraging words and maybe discover a new sport love.
“They might start with a class and maybe move on to a league that incorporates practices and games and that can lead to taking it further, but it all needs to start with first step,” Caine said.
Pack up your family for an eerie evening cruise & drive by some of the spookiest houses in St. Charles!
Best Viewed at Dusk to 10pm • Oct 17-31
Judging Nights: Fri & Sat • Oct 17 & 18
Tour guides available Oct 17 at 9am: stcparks.org/halloweenfun
Follow the event on Facebook! /galleryofghoulishhometour
from the Kitchen
Create homemade skincare products with pantry staples
By Yanira Andel
he heart of the home has always been the kitchen — a place for gathering, nourishing, and creating. But the magic of your pantry doesn’t stop at mealtime. Many of the same ingredients that flavor your favorite dishes can also double as natural, effective skincare. Affordable, accessible, and refreshingly simple, these recipes remind us that a little home comfort can extend well beyond the dinner table.
THE GLOW GETTER: HONEY
Every kitchen should have a jar of raw honey — not just for sweetening tea but also for sweetening your skincare routine. Naturally antibacterial and antioxidant-rich, honey makes a gentle, hydrating mask. Smooth it directly onto clean skin, or mix with avocado or yogurt for extra moisture. In just 15 minutes, you’ll wash away to find skin as soft and radiant as a fresh-baked loaf.
BRIGHTENING BLEND: YOGURT + LEMON
THE SOOTHER: OATMEAL + TURMERIC
Oats aren’t just comfort food on a chilly morning — they’re also one of the gentlest ways to calm irritated skin. Add a pinch of turmeric, a spice long loved for its antiinflammatory benefits, and you’ve got a
If your fridge holds plain Greek yogurt and a lemon or two, you’ve got the makings of a brightening treatment. Yogurt’s lactic acid gently exfoliates, while lemon’s vitamin C revives tired complexions. Together, they work like a little sunshine for your skin — perfect for those days when the house feels dim. (Just remember: citrus can increase sun sensitivity, so follow with SPF if you head outdoors.)
golden-hued mask that works while you relax. Mix with water or honey, spread on, and let the kitchen aromas mingle as you unwind for 10 minutes.
SMOOTH OPERATOR: SUGAR SCRUBS
Before tossing that bag of brown sugar back into the pantry, consider using it to smooth rough spots. Blended with a drizzle of coconut or olive oil, sugar becomes a naturally effective scrub for lips, hands, or heels — the very parts of us that work the hardest at home. A quick buff and rinse, and you’ll be left softer and more refreshed than before.
A FEW NOTES BEFORE YOU MIX
Natural ingredients can be as potent as store-bought formulas, so patch-test before trying something new. Make small batches and store them fresh — like leftovers, these DIY recipes are best when enjoyed right away.
At home, beauty doesn’t have to be complicated. Sometimes it’s as simple as turning to the pantry, slowing down in the kitchen, and treating yourself with the same care you put into a favorite family recipe. After all, home is where both good meals and good glow begin.
Tickets on sale now!
Discover yuletide treasure in Geneva! At our annual Holiday House Tour you’ll visit five spectacular homes all decked out with festive holly and sparkling holiday warmth. Call 630-232-6060 or stop by visitgenevail.com for tickets, details and a complete schedule. The spirit of Christmas truly comes alive in Geneva!
SUPERDAD
ors Aweigh Anchors
Sometimes it’s easy to suspend disbelief, even for just a moment.
Other times, it’s more likely cut adrift — laughing at an absurd juxtaposition while wondering:
What would Captain John Paul Jones think?
Consider the moment you walk into a dark room. What’s the first thing you do? Reach for the light switch, of course.
Reflections on the people who keep the world running smoothly
And why? Because we believe that by flipping up a tiny plastic toggle jutting from the wall, the space we occupy will suddenly become illuminated.
It’s only chemistry and physics, after all. By moving the toggle, we reconnect separated copper contacts, completing a circuit and allowing electrons to flow to the desired destination — in this case, a light bulb or other photon-emitting fixture. Light helps us find that pair of socks, avoid stepping on a LEGO,
or reveal whatever else lurks in the darkness.
But in reality, there’s much more to it. Consider the lights again, and think deeper: Where does the electricity come from? How does it arrive at your house? How is it generated?
Those questions lead to a straightforward answer. It’s one that, as a dad, I’ve regularly shared with my kids, a wide smile on my face as I watch the light bulb turn on in their minds.
The answer goes something like this: It’s people. For decades — centuries even — individuals and groups you’ve never met dreamed up, engineered, built and now maintain the systems that enable you to simply turn on the lights.
So, in a way, it’s magical: an unseen world populated by smart, strong, tireless men and women, a world most of us encounter only briefly, continues to operate (mostly) out of view. They ensure these systems we take
for granted continue to work as expected, all day, every day.
When they don’t, it’s jarring. We know that lights, air conditioners, furnaces and refrigerators almost never stop working when it’s 65 degrees and partly sunny.
Standing in my living room as snow and ice pelt the windows at 10 p.m. in January — while wind chills hover below zero — always renews my appreciation. My mind drifts to the hardy folks, perhaps out in the elements, maintaining the electrical grid that keeps me warm, dry and illuminated—or at least keeps disruptions mercifully brief.
In my house, both young and old are challenged to express gratitude for others who keep vital systems humming:
• Police officers and firefighters who respond when we call 911.
• Nurses, doctors and others who stand ready at hospitals.
• Truck drivers who move the goods we expect to find on shelves.
• Soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines who tirelessly guard our country.
It was to some of those folks my mind drifted while I stood with my family on a cruise ship deck, watching fireworks explode in brilliant purple, red, orange and
yellow. A band dressed like caricatures of “Pirates of the Caribbean” extras blasted out dad rock standards. And a reasonable facsimile of the worst pirate you’ve ever heard of (whose name rhymes with Tack Narrow), guyliner and all, literally dropped into the show from the smokestack in a cinema-worthy stunt.
Until that moment, the absurdity never really dawned on me.
After all, it seemed natural. On a cruise run by the House of Mouse, of course a pool deck party would celebrate a film franchise that’s generated more than $4.5 billion for the entertainment empire.
But then the switch of disbelief was jostled. Laughter poured from my fatherly face as my mind grappled with the irony: Here we were, in Caribbean shipping lanes, celebrating characters whose way of life was eradicated centuries ago by sustained campaigns of the British crown and other naval powers.
It didn’t escape me that a modern cruise ship — loaded with wealthy, defenseless passengers and a fair amount of “booty” — would still serve as a tempting target for those same real-life pirates at any point in history.
Feel free to look up the real history of Caribbean pirates at your leisure. I won’t bore you with the details if it’s not your thing. But suffice it to say, the story ends roughly 250 years ago when the U.S. Navy sailed into
the West Indies and gave those scallywags a healthy dose of Manifest Destiny.
That Navy is also the primary reason the world’s shipping lanes remain open, allowing commerce to flow. And it’s the reason those Caribbean waters aren’t again populated by modern-day buccaneers. Instead, cruise ships lit up like Las Vegas sail safely through, hosting “Pirate Night” with fireworks instead of facing real maritime marauders.
So this month, as the U.S. Navy celebrates a quarter millennium since Capt. Jones and other founders set the first ships to sea in the name of freedom and national interest, consider this my way of saying “thank you” from a grateful family.
And happy 250th birthday, U.S. Navy. Anchors aweigh.
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.)
OF THE MONTH
Artist Louise Miller
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.
When Louise Miller and her husband were in the thick of establishing their real estate firm in Houston, Miller turned to art as a distraction from the everyday grind of building a business. “I began taking watercolor classes at a local community college, which blossomed into a full commitment to first 2D collage and later 3D ceramics and sculpture, eventually taking art, ceramics and sculpture classes at the Glassell School of Art in Houston for several years,” she says.
When the couple put down roots in Batavia, Miller gravitated to the creative environment and artistry of the area. “As we were getting familiar with our new hometown of Batavia, I was drawn to the camaraderie and talent of the community of artists at Water Street Studios,” she says. “Since July of last year, I have taken several ceramic classes…in April of this year, a studio space opened up and I became a resident artist. I look forward to sharing both collage and mixed-media techniques with others in the coming years.”
Miller has immersed herself in all the local opportunities to enjoy art and view diverse works. “Since moving to the Fox River Valley, I have been thoroughly immersed in visiting the galleries, art fairs, and parks throughout the entire area,” she says. “The St. Mary’s Sculpture Park is one of my favorite go-tos for inspiration along with taking peaceful hikes on the many trails throughout the vast forest preserves that surround the Fox River and environs.”
As an artist, Miller seeks to further her creativity with ever-evolving inspiration. “I am constantly challenging myself artistically with my painting and sculpture to produce works that respond to the ever-changing physical and emotional landscapes we are finding ourselves in,” she says. “One such project was to create sets of ceramic muses this past winter that personally evoke a sense
of calm and serenity.” In the coming months, she will work to scale up some of her work and add depth to her mixed media creations. “Future goals are to create large organic pit-fired ceramic pieces and to incorporate more 3D elements into my mixed media framed art pieces,” she says.
When it comes to the role art plays within a community, Miller emphasizes the importance of presenting the opportunity for free creativity as soon as possible. “As a child I was exposed to the visual, literary and dramatic arts from a young age and gained an appreciation,” she says. “The arts, and artistic expression itself, has historically been a strong influence on the human psyche, and that is why I believe that introducing young children to the arts at an early age, can not only benefit them but society in general.”
About the artist
Louise Miller was born in Oak Park some years ago, and upon getting her masters in community planning, Miller and her husband moved to Houston, Texas, and spent the next 40 years working and building their commercial real estate appraisal firm. Upon retirement, the couple decided to move back to the northern climes, wanting a small-town atmosphere along with an art-friendly environment. Once they came upon Batavia and the Fox River Valley, they made the decision to move there and have been working at settling into their new home in the historic part of town. When Miller came across WSS last year, she knew she wanted to be a part of the unique and very special community.
DETAILS OF louise miller's WORK
u Requiem: 30x52; Mixed Media/Canvas; $875 v Meteor Shower: 10x10; Mixed Media/Paper; $65 w Master of the Dance: 20x20; mixed Media/Canvas; $375 x Lemon Trees: 30x30; Mixed Media/Canvas; $650 y Crossed Purposes: 30x30; Mixed Media/Canvas; $650 z Maine Coast: 14x20; Mixed Media/Canvas; Private Collection
{ Woman-2024: 20x36; Mixed Media/Canvas; Private Collection
| Madonna: 20x20; Mixed Media/Paper; Private Collection
For more information on the artist of the month, head to waterstreetstudios.org or the organization’s social media pages.
Grab a
As fall weather arrives, it's the perfect time to cozy up at home with a blanket, a warm beverage and a book. Here are two recommendations for your October reading list, courtesy of the librarians at Geneva Public Library.
FOR MIDDLE GRADE READERS:
“Scary Stories for Young Foxes” by Christian McKay Heidicker Predators, illness, hunger, humans … these are the stuff of nightmares when you’re a fox kit. Late one night, an elder fox tells seven ostensibly courageous youngsters a series of stories “so frightening [they] will put the white in your tail.” While they feel like ghost stories, the terrors are all of this world. Over the course of the intertwining tales, Mia, who was separated from her family after rabies swept their community, and Uly, who is abused by his sisters and father because of a deformed paw, demonstrate the ingenuity and courage it takes to survive the dangers of life as a fox. Skillful tension-building and shadowy black-and-white illustrations create a sublimely spooky atmosphere in this unconventional children’s novel. Through it all, Mia and Uly bring heart and hope amongst the horrors, keeping the story from dipping into the depressingly macabre. Upper elementary and middle school-age readers with a taste for dark and reality-based horror will be rewarded with plenty of chills and a fresh perspective on the web of life in the natural world.
– Kylie Peters, Adult & Teen Services Librarian
FOR ADULTS:
“The Ex Hex” by Erin Sterling
When her boyfriend breaks up with her, Viviene Jones goes through all stages of grief: tears, sad music, taking too many bubble baths and, of course, cursing her ex. Fortunately, or unfortunately, Vivi just happens to be a witch. Now, nine years later, Rhys returns to help revitalize the town’s magic and it seems like Vivi’s harmless curse may not be so harmless after all. Vivi and Rhys must now work together to save the town, despite their past and despite various magical mishaps. Set in the fictional town of Graves Glen, Georgia, “The Ex Hex” is filled with autumnal ambience and is so well realized that Graves Glen feels like a real place. Vivi and Rhys’s relationship is filled with humorous banter that keep this book lighthearted, and the plot propels the story forward. If you enjoy all things spooky season or love a good enemies-to-lovers romance, you’ll want to pick up “The Ex Hex.”
– Allyson Palagi, Adult & Teen Services Coordinator
OCTOBER 2025
Check out a showing of "Come From Away" at Paramount Theatre in Aurora at 5:30 p.m.
Indigenous Peoples Day
Pub Theology at Up North Wine Tasting Room in Geneva from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.
Open Mic at The House Pub in St. Charles from 811:45 p.m.
Heritage Prairie Farm hosts their Farm Dinner, themed Roots & Wine, Amalfi Coast.
The Showgirl Lantern Walk in Downtown Batavia celebrates local treasures with the release of "The Life of a Showgirl" from 5-8 p.m.
South Elgin's Pumpkin Patch Festival from 9 a.m.1 p.m. at Seba Park
Friends of the Library's children's books sale at GPL from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Basement of the Dead Haunted House in Aurora, open 7-10 p.m.
Pizza Palooza at Sunset Community Center in Geneva. Event is free but registration is required. Code is 4611303-01 Halloween Spooktacular for all ages at the Geneva Public Library from 10 a.m. - 11 a.m.
Join in for The Office Trivia with David Koechner (the actor who played Todd Packer) at The Comedy Vault in Batavia, starting at 7:30 p.m.
Magic Rocks at Arcada Theatre in St. Charles at 7:30 p.m. *ticketed event
BatFest at Peg Bond Center in Batavia from 10
- 2
Happy Halloween! Stay safe!
