KCMagazine_May 2021

A&E I S S U E

MAY 2021

FABRIC ART INSTALLATION PAGE 7



WILSON STREET MERCANTILE PAGE 31

COMING

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A Q&A with local illustrator Tom Lichtenheld, whose 30+ children’s books include “Yes Day and “Duck! Rabb !” it!”

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Editor's

NOTE Hooray for May! Recently, I told my sister about a story I was writing for this May issue. “‘Duck! Rabbit!’” she exclaimed. “That’s such a good book!”

Norah already knew what I was just realizing: Tom Lichtenheld’s books are widely read and loved. And he’s local.

His book “Yes Day!” recently debuted on Netflix — and quickly became a No. 1 film.

My interview with him was so enjoyable; as a fellow writer, I found myself agreeing with and connecting to his points about creativity, the arts and the imaginations of young readers. I’m proud to feature someone so emblematic of these themes on the cover of our arts & entertainment issue.

See P. 10 for more.

You will also find stories about upcoming — and large-scale — art exhibits in the area, ranging from a fabric installation in St. Charles to a renovation at the Arcada (P. 7 and 18, respectively). The arts are especially interesting to me because they encompass

such a wide variety of professions and passions: Our section includes stories on music, theater, photography, writing and more. Thank you to the Kane County community for your creativity as well as your willingness to celebrate others in their creative endeavors.

Lastly, I’ll conclude with a very exciting announcement: Kane County Magazine is officially the sponsor of one of Water Street Studios’ galleries. Now, in addition to reading the Artist of the Month feature (this month on P. 16), you can visit the Kane County Magazine Gallery on the first floor of Water Street Studios. Hope to see you there!

Thanks, as always, for reading.

EDITOR Hannah Hoffmeister 630-427-6263 hhoffmeister@shawmedia.com DESIGNER Allison LaPorta 630-427-6260 alaporta@shawmedia.com LOCAL SALES MANAGER Kane County Chronicle & Niche Publishing Jaclyn Cornell 630-845-5234 jcornell@shawmedia.com CORRESPONDENTS Allison Bills, Jonathan Bilyk, Katie McCall, Melissa Rubalcaba Riske, Diane Krieger Spivak, Louise Treeny and Chris Walker.

Hannah Hoffmeister, Editor

on the

COVER

Children’s book illustrator Tom Lichtenheld relaxes in the recently renovated Geneva Public Library, which features a wall of his art in the kids’ section.

Photo by Kathy Green, RCG Photography.

Next month: Warm weather, we're ready for you! June will be full of outdoor and recreation ideas for you to enjoy.

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PUBLISHER Daily Chronicle & Suburban Weekly Group Laura Shaw 630-709-4497 lshaw@shawmedia.com

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

MAY

2021

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INSIDE

What's

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

HOME & LIFESTYLE

7 ART FOR EVERYONE Enormous fabric art installation is coming to St. Charles this summer

26 HOME RENOVATION 10 bits of acquired wisdom from Superdad’s experience

9 STRIKING THE RIGHT NOTE Austin’s Violin Shop celebrates 40 years of bringing music to the community

28 RIGHT PLANT, RIGHT SPOT Wasco Nursery on making smart plant choices, which will lead to less maintenance

10 MAKING BOOKS COME TO LIFE A Q&A with local illustrator Tom Lichtenheld, the creative mind behind 30+ children’s books

31 A HOUSE DIVIDED Former Batavia Boardwalk Shop owners split a renovated space to create Wilson Street Mercantile

14 GRAB A BOOKMARK Two book recommendations to check out in May

34 VINTAGE — IT’S IN VOGUE Consider changing things up with brass fixtures or a bar cart

15 MAKE YOUR OWN MASTERPIECE The fun of creating original art matters most at Pinot’s Palette

36 SEASONAL STROLL Mark your calendar for Pottawatomie Garden Club's summer garden walk

16 ARTIST OF THE MONTH Nature photographer Sue Braunsky captures beauty, peace in her surroundings 18 LIGHTS, CAMERA, UPDATE Behind the scenes of the Arcada Theatre’s extensive renovations

DINING & ENTERTAINING 20 SHAKE IT UP An orange cream drink that’s delicious AND healthy? You’ll find it at Bulldog Nutrition 22 EAT HEALTHY, EVEN WHEN YOU’RE OUT Digestive expert Dr. Tarun Mullick visits Shakou shortly after its reopening

BUSINESS & CIVIC 38 IT’S NOT TOO LATE Tom McCartney and Sharon Piet on funding your 2020 IRA

FAMILY IN FOCUS 40 MINI-GOLF ADVENTURE AWAITS River View Miniature Golf Course celebrates 50th anniversary 42 EXPLORE ELGIN AREA Take a family getaway to Elgin’s museums, parks and an arcade

24 LESS IS MORE 5 ways to refresh your kitchen and unleash newfound cooking inspiration

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MAY

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Enormous fabric art installation is coming to St. Charles this summer — and volunteers are needed

By Diane Krieger Spivak Photos by Mikayla Whitmore and Tom Loonan; proposal provided

manda Browder says art is for everyone.

“People say to me, ‘I’m not creative.’

I tell them that’s ridiculous,’” says Browder, a Brooklynbased large-scale fabric installation artist. She’s known for bright, geometric designs that grace entire buildings in swaths of glorious color.

Thanks to a $10,000 grant obtained through the St. Charles Arts Council,

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WANT TO GET INVOLVED? Email St. Charles Arts Council Executive Director Kathy Hill at info@stcharlesartscouncil.org.

Browder is scheduled to bring her talents to St. Charles, where she’ll set up shop and invite locals to participate in creating the city’s own installation art project. The installation will be on display at the St. Charles Municipal Building in mid-August, according to the council website.

college major before switching to art.

Browder earned her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Wisconsin and has taught at various locations, including the School of the Art Institute of Chicago.

“Fiber wasn’t supported in the early 2000s,” she says. “My work was seen as craft-based. I was making sculpture and showing, but not included in general art history.” Her first large-scale piece was in Chicago’s Humboldt Park area. Her first communitybased project took place in 2010 after she moved to Brooklyn.

“When I work with a site, we do a call for fabric from the area,” says Browder. Volunteers then take part in public sewing days. “People can drop in if they want, take a peek and just chat, but I also offer to teach people how to sew, and we all build it as a community, so it’s based on volunteer support.”

She feels contemporary art often creates a separation between the audience and art process. “So I try to incorporate that through these projects and give people the opportunity to participate in different ways — donating fabric, hanging out, coming and being part of the installation,” she says. “There are a lot of different ways where people’s stories can be enveloped and worked into the project.”

Browder does a lot of archiving, interviewing and talking with people about how they participated. “For example, a lot of times it’s hard to release certain pieces of fabric because it’s connected to stories

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“I grew up in the mountains where everything was bigger than me,” says the Montana native. “Scale is really important. I also want art to be an everyday experience; not confined to museums.” of family. This gives an opportunity to pay homage to that story and support the history of the local people,” she says.

For those who want to donate fabric, she advises pieces larger than a foot square, not stretchy and in bold colors. All ages are invited. The St. Charles Arts Council will coordinate sewing days in August.

How does the artist pull off such a huge piece successfully? “A little bit of blind faith and mathematics,” says Browder. “It’s a lot of geometry.”

In addition to her creative artistry (she learned to sew in 4-H), she has a background in math, her original

Browder invites anyone to “pull out those sewing machines and dust them off, even if you don’t know how to sew. I will teach you,” she says. “There are no preconceived notions of what’s correct. Just show up and say hi.”

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Striking AUSTIN’S VIOLIN SHOP CELEBRATES 40 YEARS OF BRINGING INSTRUMENTS AND MUSIC EDUCATION TO THE COMMUNITY

By Louise Treeny Photos provided

T

he shop began with a musically inclined husbandwife duo: Patricia, a Suzuki violin teacher, and her husband, Dana, a 1980 graduate of the Chicago School of Violin Making.

Now, Austin’s Violin Shop is celebrating 40 years as a beloved hub for all things related to string instruments: restorations, repairs, sales, appraisals, rentals, music and more. Located in Sugar Grove, the shop also serves as the rental base for a wide network of school districts and customers from Chicago to Rockford to Danville.

Patricia Austin, owner, says the 40th year is a “special year for us.” As the shop has grown and continued to serve the community, her children have become involved, too: Her daughter Honna is a string teacher for the violin, viola, cello and bass. Two of Austin’s sons, Taylor and Garrett, serve as the representatives for the schools.

Daughter Holly, who graduated and works at the store now, and son Trevor,

who currently attends school there, have both spent time at their late father's alma mater, the Chicago School of Violin Making.

In addition to the family’s involvement, the store features the instruments of Yongjin Gho and Kyunghee Lee. Both are luthiers, or makers of string instruments.

If you’re interested in purchasing an instrument or bow, the shop allows clients to take them home for a one- or two-week trial period before making a decision — then follows up with a year of free servicing for the instrument.

Meetings for instrument purchases are available by appointment.

If you’re interested in trying an instrument, “Never hesitate to give it a whirl,” says Austin, who’s proud that the shop has been able to weather struggles and continue to succeed. She says the shop “maintains a high level of integrity and concern for our customers,” crediting the shop’s longtime employees and adding their customers’ best interest are always foremost.

Another aspect of serving school districts is a continuous effort to build up the arts. Austin’s Violin Shop has partnered with Fox Valley El Sistema, a Fox Valley Orchestra program that provides instruments and musical education to children regardless of their ability to afford it, Austin says. Austin’s Violin Shop supports the program by providing some instruments and servicing the repairs. “We’re trying to address the musical needs of our communities,” Austin says.

If reading this has struck a chord in you to try an instrument, Austin would encourage you to follow that idea and give it a shot.

“String instruments are for all ages,” she says. “Music is so good for the brain.”  AUSTIN’S VIOLIN SHOP 316 Wheeler Road, Sugar Grove 630-466-7562 www.austinsviolinshop.com

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Q&A A Q&A with local illustrator Tom Lichtenheld, whose 30+ children’s books include “Yes Day!” and “Duck! Rabbit!”

By Hannah Hoffmeister Photos by Kathy Green, RCG Photography; book covers provided

by Tom Lichtenheld

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MAKING BOOKS COME

to life I

f you read to your little ones before bed, there’s a good chance you’ve read something illustrated by Tom Lichtenheld. A Tri-Cities resident, Lichtenheld is the creative mind behind bestselling titles like “I Wish You More” and “Goodnight, Goodnight, Construction Site.” On March 12, “Yes Day!” — created

by Lichtenheld and the late Amy Krouse Rosenthal, a longtime collaborator — debuted as a Netflix movie. Recently, Kane County Magazine talked with him about

the movie, his creative process and more.

This interview has been edited slightly for length.

particular. There are so many ways — that I’ve witnessed — for creative people to make a living.

 KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE: Tell us a little bit about yourself. Have you always known you want to be an artist?

 KC: What’s something people may not know about your creative process?

TOM LICHTENHELD: I have always known I’ve wanted to be an artist, although I didn’t always know it was a possibility. I remember drawing when I was very small; one of my first memories is sitting in a kitchen at a little blackboard my mom had on the wall. She was making dinner or something, and I was drawing a ship. … I always loved to draw, and obviously kids like to draw, and art is important to them. I’m a big advocate for pursuing art or creativity as a career. I managed to do it myself — even though I spent most of my career in advertising, it was still tapping into my creativity in a big way. I like to tell parents and kids, ‘Creativity is not just a novelty anymore. It’s actually necessary in any career, to be able to think on your feet and be inventive and find new ways of doing things.’ I’m a big promoter of creativity in general and the arts in

TL: How much stuff is thrown away. A finished picture book should look like it could be no other way. It should look like it was effortless, (like) someone just shook it out of their sleeve. And getting to that point with a piece of work is a lot of work.

A lot of things get thrown away. Even when you come up with the germ of the idea and you know it’s pretty good, you explore lots of ways of executing it, and I do lots of sketches and lots of ideas. And I pursue each one of those as if it’s going to be golden, because you have to. And then you start to edit, and put things together, and leave things behind. And the things that get left behind, in a way, are just as important as the things that end up in the book.

Because that’s what got you there. Also, a lot of things that end up on the cutting room floor will get picked up later on — nothing’s really wasted. I like to impress that upon kids when I talk to kids; I show ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT MAY 2021

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rights probably three years ago. Unfortunately, that was shortly after Amy Krouse Rosenthal passed away, so it was really unfortunate that she couldn’t be part of it. Having gotten to know Jennifer Garner a little bit from a distance, I think that she and Amy would have been kindred spirits. I had to sign some paperwork, but other than that, I didn’t have any interest in being involved in the movie. I’m not a script writer or a filmmaker, so I had no authority to impose myself on what they do. I was just marveling at the fact that they were going to take a 32-page picture book with probably 200 words in it and make it into a 90-minute feature film. I thought, ‘Well, how are they going to do that?’

them lots of rejects. There’s this silly little device in (Microsoft) Keynote where you can make things go up in flames, so I show all these drawings and then I hit the flame button. (Lichtenheld laughs.) Which is a big hit with the kids.

 KC: What do you enjoy about kids being your main audience, and how does that inform your creative style?

and they will let you go anywhere as long as it’s interesting. I just love that about kids. Certainly every story has certain constraints, and it does need to be satisfying, because kids will also bust you if you stray too far. But what they value more than anything is imagination. And they don’t take everything literally, and I really like that.

 KC: How long has the “Yes Day!” movie been in the works, and did you have any involvement with that?

TL: There’s a quotation I use from an author (Alison McGhee): “Children like specificity without context.” What that means is that kids aren’t as demanding about the thread of a story,

TL: The book came out in 2009; I think I got the first email about someone being interested in the movie

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Had there been a premiere, I probably would have been invited to that. They did a nice little online premiere for people who were involved in the behind-the-scenes, so that was nice; I got to see it a little bit early.

 KC: What did you think when you saw it for the first time? Did it match the picture you had in your head?

TL: Yeah, it matched in that it was very true to the concept. Obviously from there, it sprang into a lot of scenarios that they invented, but yeah, the concept was very grounded in the book. It was delightful.

 KC: It was very cool to see your name at the end in the credits. Did that surprise you or strike you in any way?

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TL: It knocked me over. I knew that Amy and I would be credited in the movie, but I didn’t know how. I didn’t know it would be so prominent. I confess to taking a picture of that scene in the movie.

 KC: When I watched it, it was No. 1 on Netflix.

What does that mean to you?

TL: It means it’s a great family film. I think that families are probably hungry for that. After a year of so much bad news, I think it came at the right time. It just hit a sweet spot when parents and families are ready to laugh together and watch some silly scenes together, and it just owes a lot of its popularity to timing and performance, being the right place at the right time.

Are you interested in writing and illustrating?

Lichtenheld recommends joining the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators, which hosts conferences and provides opportunities for both upand-coming and established writers. Go to www.illinois. scbwi.org to learn more.

 KC: What can you tell us about your new book, “Stick and Stone: Best Friends Forever!”?

When does that come out?

TL: That comes out in September. It’s a follow-up to the original “Stick and Stone” book. I created it with Beth Ferry. We collaborated on that, which was just a blast. Stick and Stone are these two buddies, and Stick decides that he wants to find his family tree. He wants to know what his roots are — am I a willow? Am I a birch? So he and Stone go out to find his family tree. I can’t tell you what happens, but it’s got a really nice resolution to it. Ultimately it’s a story about friendship and family, and how friends can be family.

 Dexter, a 4-year-old Tri-Cities reader, recognized Lichtenheld's artwork as being from one his favorite books.

He had lots of questions for the illustrator!

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Grab a Find a picnic blanket, grab a book and head outside! Here are two recommendations for your May reading list, courtesy of the y. librarians at Geneva Public Librar

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 FOR YOUR KIDS OR GRANDKIDS: “Prairie Lotus” by Linda Sue Park

 FOR OUR READERS: “Once Upon a River” by Diane Setterfield

For a fresh and fascinating perspective on the pioneer experience, check out “Prairie Lotus” by Linda Sue Park, which tells the story of Asian immigrants in 1880s America. The author loved the “Little House on the Prairie” series when she was growing up, but as an Asian American, she never saw girls like herself in books about life in the old West. Fourteen-year-old Hanna, the daughter of a Chinese immigrant mother and white father, moves from Los Angeles to the Dakota Territory.

She dreams of going to school, becoming a dressmaker and helping her father in his dry goods store.

However, in their new town, horrific racism threatens to leave her with no friends. Her father isn’t sure what to do, but he knows he doesn’t want her to help out in his store. Life on the frontier is tough for anyone, but Hanna seems to have all the odds stacked against her. It will take guts, determination and ingenuity for Hanna to create the future she wants for herself. Hanna is a wonderful role model, and readers learn more about what life was like for frontier women. This inspiring historical fiction novel suitable for readers in grades 5 and up reveals previously untold stories from our history.

— Kylie Peters, librarian

“Once Upon a River” by Diane Setterfield is a mystery unlike any other. On a restless and stormy night, a wounded stranger enters the local inn carrying what appears to be a large bundle. He explains to those gathered for an evening of drink and storytelling that he found the bundle in the Thames River. When he opens the bundle, he discovers the lifeless body of a small girl. No one knows the identity of the man, or the girl he plucked from the river. And this incident seems like a tragedy — until hours later, when the girl takes a deep breath. Is it a miracle or something more nefarious? Who is the girl, and where did she come from? She is unable to tell them, and there are three families ready to claim her as their own missing child.

The path to the truth will draw out longburied secrets that shake the worlds of these families. Steeped deep in folklore, this book asks readers to challenge their beliefs of what is possible. Setterfield is a master of tension and subtly pulls her narrative between logic, scientific evidence and the belief that there could be something darker at work in the world. This book is perfect for fans of Agatha Christie and readers who enjoy the otherworldly feeling of fairy tales.

— Rebekah Noggle, librarian

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Make your own MASTERPIECE A KNACK FOR PAINTING IS OPTIONAL — AT PINOT’S PALETTE, THE FUN OF CREATING ORIGINAL ART MATTERS MOST

By Louise Treeny | Photos provided

W

hen her friend invited her to a painting event, Amy Kumler’s expectations were low.

that make certain paints glow. You’ll find a bar (beer, wine and pre-mixed cocktails), occasional non-painting events like trivia night, and good music. “We get a lot of compliments on (our) music track,” says Kumler; and, true to her word, a mix of classic hits and current pop plays throughout the studio as she speaks.

“My goal was for people to know it was a dog,” she laughs.

What she didn’t expect was how much she would enjoy it.

“For three hours I did nothing but painting,” she says.

“It really did relax me.”

At the time, Kumler’s job in finance was causing a lot of stress. She began painting more as a stress relief outlet, a hobby that grew until one day she received an email that read something along the lines of “Have you ever considered owning a Pinot’s Palette?”

No, Kumler had never considered that. But fast-forward to March 2019, and she was signing a contract and starting a new business venture. Pinot’s Palette’s St. Charles location, of which Kumler is the owner, opened at the end of November 2019.

“There’s nothing better than a roomful of people enjoying themselves,” says Kumler, who says she’s looking forward to the return of laughter as pandemicrelated restrictions start to ease.

Pinot’s Palette offers painting nights where you follow an instructor’s directions. The step-by-step process makes landscapes, animals, flowers — you name

it, really — into a doable, fun night of creativity. In addition to classic canvas painting, the studio also offers acrylic pour classes, chunky knit blanket making, flower pot painting and more.

During the stay-at-home orders, Pinot’s Palette sold kits with the necessary supplies and instructions. The studio is also big enough for socially distanced painting nights in person, following safety guidelines.

As an artist who paints for fun, Kumler’s message to people who are unsure of their talents is to give it a try.

“Challenge yourself to do it anyway,” she says, adding it’s just about letting your brain relax. “Our artists are taught to break it down step by step.”

The main attraction is the art, but don’t discount the atmosphere. The private party room has black lights

The studio is also willing to partner with school parentteacher associations or other organizations to do fundraising. One such endeavor is Project Pet, in which you send your favorite digital pet photo, which gets transferred onto a canvas. The instructors then walk you through the steps of adding color, shadows and highlights so that your pet comes to life on the canvas.

These nights benefit local animal shelters.

The Pinot’s Palette St. Charles website has class details and registration for upcoming events, complete with an image of what you’ll be painting. A painting class typically costs $35, but it ranges based on the painting or event.

And remember: You don’t have to be an up-and-coming Van Gogh to enjoy yourself. “It’s just about having fun,” Kumler says.  PINOT’S PALETTE 3823 E. Main St., St. Charles 630-338-0278 www.pinotspalette.com/stcharles ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT MAY 2021

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Artist OF THE MONTH

SUE BRAUNSKY 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.

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E

ven before COVID-19, a 6-feet radius had meaning in photographer Sue Braunsky’s life.

“I give myself about a 6 foot square to be in, and then I can only look for things in that radius to photograph,” says Braunsky, a local nature photographer and painter. “This helps me to slow down and appreciate all the beauty that is around me, things that I might otherwise miss.”

A lifelong Batavia resident, Braunsky opened Amazed by You Photography in 2012. “I began doing

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portraits and weddings, but then realized that nature photography was my passion. Being out in God’s world and seeing his creation is where I find my joy… it’s my place of rest and fulfillment,” she says.

studio into an art studio where I can paint with watercolor and alcohol inks.”

Braunsky joined Water Street Studios at the beginning of March 2020; the ensuing pandemic-related shutdown led her to take a class in watercolor painting. “In my younger years, I always loved drawing but had never learned how to paint,” she says. “That one class has now evolved into turning part of my

“It’s beautiful how everyone can feel something different from a particular piece, as it can arouse such diverse emotions or connections,” she says. “In the case of nature photography, I try to capture a sense of beauty and peacefulness, as our world seems to need that right now.”

The emotions of creating and viewing art also resonate with Braunsky.

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2.

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DETAILS OF Sue Braunsky's WORK: To purchase or learn more about her creations, visit www.amazedbyyouphotography.com or www.waterstreetstudios.org/shopwaterstreet.  Forest of Blue: can be printed any size  Old DC Truck: watercolor painting, 11x14  Leaves: watercolor painting, 12x12, matted and framed  Dick Young Pods: image printed on metal, 20x30  Peace on Earth: image printed on metal, 16x24

Sue Braunsky is a published nature photographer and artist as well as a fulltime speech and language pathologist.

She also works with watercolor and alcohol inks to create representational and abstract paintings.

For more information on the artist of the month, head to www.waterstreetstudios.org or the organization’s social media pages.

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LIGHTS, CAMERA,

update

Behind the scenes of the Arcada Theatre’s extensive renovations

By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske | Photos provided by the Arcada Theatre

 Photo taken before COVID-19

T

he curtain is about to rise on an updated entertainment destination in St. Charles.

As entertainment returns to the area this summer, there is an extra amount of excitement for the Arcada Theatre. The St. Charles arts & entertainment mainstay is gearing up to launch a reopening of the theater property with updates to the building and the addition of two new restaurants, including a dueling piano bar.

“This represents 15 years of dreams and visions coming together and now we are going to make it happen,” says Ron Onesti, president and CEO of Onesti Entertainment Corporation, which operates the theater.

Onesti has made a name in the Chicagoland area for his work with the Arcada as well as his company’s production of local festivals and other dining and entertainment venues. Onesti took the helm of the St. Charles theater in 2005, and in 2019 he sold the property to Frontier Development while continuing to manage the

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theater operations.

Onesti has re-imagined the Arcada’s image as a music venue with new dining and entertainment options for guests to enjoy year-round. While the plans for the updates for the theater, which opened in 1926, had been in the pipeline for some time, the past year’s pandemic-induced closure presented the opportune time to tackle the work.

“We tried to make the most of our lockdown time,” says Onesti.

One of the first changes guests will see is the new Rock ’N Za restaurant featuring wood-fired pizzas with music themes. Onesti purchased an oven from Italy to turn the dough into crispy pizza crusts covered in toppings and named for some of his favorite musicians and bands — among others, you’ll find on the menu “Jon Bon Reuben” and “Fleetwood Mac Anna Cheeza.”

Inside the building former office spaces were converted into a second dining experience, Rock ’N Ravioli, a restaurant that includes dining space indoors as well as an outdoor piazza with a brick

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patio. The menu will feature some of Onesti’s favorite family recipes. It’s scheduled to open in the fall, according to the Arcada website.

Inside the restaurant space will be room for live music including dueling pianos, a lively and interactive experience where often guests can offer up their song requests as the pianists try to outperform each other.

The two new dining experiences will be available to the public as well as theater patrons.

Inside the theater there are improvements while maintaining the essence of the building and its history.

Guests will appreciate the upgrades to the heating and air conditioning, along with the addition of more bathrooms.

These renovations went beyond just a few fresh coats of paints — handblown gold flakes were added to the walls for sparkle and embellishment.

Another area of former offices has been converted into 11 hotel rooms, each of which will feature a different musical theme, complete with artifacts, memorabilia and art.

Onesti can’t wait to have music playing and guests enjoying the different venues within the building. This includes the top floor Club Arcada, a speak-easy featuring rooms decorated in different themes with many pieces of art from Onesti’s personal collections.

The goal is to reopen the building this summer, starting with the pizzeria.

There’s a buzz in the air as dust and drop clothes are replaced by fresh paint and refinished wood, giving the building a new shine.

“It’s going to be a cool experience,” Onesti says. “It’s going to be a multisensory experience.”

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Shake it up!

AN ORANGE CREAM DRINK THAT’S DELICIOUS AND HEALTHY? YOU’LL FIND IT AT BULLDOG NUTRITION

By Allison Bills | Photos by Hannah Hoffmeister

W

hen Jenise Collins was first asked to go to a nutrition club eight years ago, her first thought was, “What the heck is that?!”

Now, she owns one such club: Bulldog Nutrition, in Batavia.

“I never even thought about owning a business or nutrition club,” Collins says. “This was not my background.”

That was before Collins experienced the health benefits for herself. “When I started going to ProFusion in Geneva, I really needed to lose weight — my blood pressure was off the chain and it was either I spend more time in the hospital or I go home and do what I needed to do,” Collins says. “I started drinking two shakes a day and eating a good dinner and within three days I lost 5 pounds.”

She continued to work with guidance from her nutrition coach and mentor, Margaret Carlson from ProFusion in Geneva, while working out

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regularly and substituting shakes into her diet. “I’m down 50-60 pounds from where I started,” Collins says. “I chose this because it’s simple and it’s easy. Anyone can enjoy it. It worked for me, and I wanted to share it with other people.”

With the support of her husband, Eugene Whitaker, Collins moved from a full-time family teacher at Mooseheart Child City and School to part-time and opened Bulldog Nutrition in September 2019. “It’s been challenging, but little by little we’ve been getting new customers,” Collins says, noting her husband helps her out a lot around the shop.

Bulldog Nutrition offers 24 flavors of shakes, teas and aloe drinks that are all low in sugar and high in protein. Shake flavors range from Thin Mint to banana nut and orange cream.

Various supplements are also available to add.

“Hearing Jenise talk about how great the

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“I keep coming back because Jenis e’s level of customer service is unmatch ed and genuine.”

- Lisa Baxter, cust omer

shakes were and how healthy and beneficial to the body they are, I just had to try one,” says customer Lisa Baxter, who likes both the banana caramel and pumpkin shakes. “I was impressed by the taste; they didn’t have a chalky taste.”

It’s also more than just a delicious shake shop — Collins offers wellness coaching to anyone wanting to take their shake consumption to the next level. “I get them on a program like I was on a program,” Collins says. “Every

program is not tailored the same for everyone — everyone has different goals and different needs.”

For those who are short on time, Collins also offers take-home shake mixtures and guidance. She wants to make them as accessible as possible to all ages, even kids and teens.

“I’m not trying to take things away from people,” Collins says. “We all love our pizza and burgers. I’m just trying to help get people some nutritious habits that they can carry with them

as they get older. It’s a good habit to start early.”

Collins loves when she sees familiar faces in her shop, especially when they become regulars. Some of the kids even refer to her as the “shake lady.”

“I keep coming back because Jenise’s level of customer service is unmatched and genuine,” Baxter says. “She really cares for and appreciates her customers.”

But it’s so much more than just owning

a business for Collins; it truly is a new lifestyle she has committed to for herself.

“It’s a lot of work, but I love it,” Collins says. “I feel like when I open my door, I’m in my element. When I see people’s faces and they’re excited, it’s just exciting. I love what I do.”  BULLDOG NUTRITION 144 W. Wilson St., Batavia 773-209-2554 www.bulldognutrition1.com

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WITH DR. TARUN MULLICK

A

s we approach summer, restaurants have begun to offer both indoor and outdoor dining.

It’s still so important to support our local restaurants. Come with me and do takeout at least twice a week.

They’re back. And welcomed back.

Shakou! The lovely atmosphere in the restaurant creates a vibe like no other in this region if you choose to dine safely. Alternatively, you can do takeout.

This time I started with my favorite, the bul go gi egg rolls. This is an egg roll that is filled with thinly sliced ribeye steak. Now, who does not love that!? This ribeye is marinated in an Asian barbecue sauce and then cooked to perfection. A little garnish of green onion coupled with dipping

in the wasabi cream sauce, and it’s like an Asian steak sandwich that is over the top, yet still maintaining the protein/carbohydrate balance.

Then I turned to the sushi roll called Urban Heat. It totally fits. A modern upscale roll with a punch of spice, this roll truly balances nutritionally and creates some warmth in the body temperature with the heat, likely burning some extra calories. Spicy tuna, jalapeño, avocado, spicy mayo, with tempura crunch wrapped in soy paper and drizzled with an unagi sauce. This roll is pretty enough to photograph, and even tastier to eat! Welcome back!

 Dr. Tarun Mullick is a specialist trained at Johns Hopkins and Cleveland Clinic in Gastroenterology and Endoscopy based in Geneva.

Connect with him at www.mullickmd. com or by phone at 630-232-2025.

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DINING & ENTERTAINING MAY 2021

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TELEHEALTH APPOINTMENTS PLEASE CALL 630-232-2025

WWW.DEDUCTIBLESHOP.COM IT'S YOUR DEDUCTIBLE! Why pay thousands more for care, tests, repairs

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It is my honor and privilege to serve the community and readership of this publication. Our practice’s focus is to care for patients, to help them and tailor their care individually with current therapies.

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Call for appointment 630-232-2025

Q: Should I get the COVID-19 vaccine?

A: Yes, you should. The COVID-19 vaccine is effective and key to

helping drop down the number of new cases. The vaccines not only help you keep a response to the virus down but also will help stop spread. If everyone gets the vaccine, then the virus will have a hard time finding a person to infect or spread. Hopefully, we will be able to put this virus behind us in the future.

Q: Colon cancer screening age is for men only, right?

A: Colon cancer screening is for both men and women. It is

preventable, beatable and treatable. Screening starts at 45 unless you have symptoms prior at whatever age or family history of polyps or cancer. Get screened. It can be done safely, even now.

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

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

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

Q: I have occasional need for Tums and a friend who takes

Prilosec OTC every few months for 14 days. We are both fine then. Is that safe, or should we be getting screened for something?

A: The package inserts are only for so long. If you have symptoms,

you don’t want to miss the possibility of an early change towards esophageal cancer. Like a pap smear, a look at the esophagus with a scope with your GI doctor can screen for a precancer change that can be monitored. For patients who identify and monitor this, if it ever goes to a cancer, it’s early and curable most often. Otherwise, most often it’s too late.

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

Do I really need a colonoscopy? Jane

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

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

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

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

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a fresh take

LESS IS MORE 5 WAYS TO REFRESH YOUR KITCHEN AND UNLEASH NEWFOUND COOKING INSPIRATION With Katie McCall, owner of Two Wild Seeds bakery

S

pringtime naturally beckons a sense of rebirth and renewal: longer days of sunlight, a fresh breeze, plants stretching their arms after months of hibernation, the calming sound of rain pitterpattering on the roof. And for me, like many, this time of year also marks the annual cleaning and purging ritual.

Yet, thanks to decluttering wizards like Marie Kondo, we’re set on autopilot to head straight for the closet, basement and garage — completely dismissing the kitchen, which is often considered the center of the household. It’s where we congregate for morning chats and cups of coffee, prepare our meals, craft with our kiddos, share stories from the day — and if you’re anything like me, it’s also the home office.

So why is the kitchen left out? Countless

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conversations with customers, clients, family and friends have revealed the same answer: They just don’t know where to start.

As a home cook turned professional chef, I’ve spent the past 10-plus years cooking my way through every size kitchen imaginable, researching and learning firsthand how to make any space functional, efficient and (dare I say) enjoyable. My approach to preparing food is echoed throughout my entire home: Keep it simple. With a few tips to refresh your space and mindset, cooking can become less of a chore and more of a rewarding pastime.  RESET AND REORGANIZE. Start with a quick walk-through of your kitchen and ask if it makes sense. Are the spices within reach of the stove, or are you making trips across the room? Mindlessly digging through cabinets and drawers to summon

utensils is wasted time and energy that could otherwise be spent appreciating the meditative moments of chopping fresh herbs or stirring a simmering pot of tomato sauce.  DITCH GIZMOS AND GADGETS. When creating an arsenal of tools, it’s all about quality over quantity. A good set of knives and cutting board, sturdy mixing bowls, wooden spoons, a wire whisk, Dutch oven, baking sheets, solid cookware and high-speed blender set the foundation for basic cooking. Forget the goofy gadgets like a strawberry husker and egg separator — a paring knife and your own two hands work just fine.  STOCK THE SHELVES. We not only eat with our eyes, but we also cook with them. A daily visual of the ingredients in your kitchen will inspire and motivate you to try new recipes. A well-stocked pantry (oils, vinegars, dried pasta, grains, canned

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beans, vegetable stock, etc.) is essential for any level cook; bonus if they’re displayed in clear, labeled containers or aesthetically pleasing glass jars.  STRIVE FOR SUSTAINABILITY. Cooking without a game plan can be quite wasteful — and leads to monotonous meals. Sit down with your favorite cookbooks (or Pinterest account), create a weekly menu plan and shop accordingly. Other small changes like composting food scraps help create a sense of mindfulness in the kitchen that will, in turn, foster a deeper connection and

appreciation to the act of preparing food.  SHOP SEASONALLY AND LOCALLY. If all else fails, drop everything and head to your local farmers market. There is no greater pleasure than touching, seeing and smelling products grown or raised just miles from your home.

You’ll not only support your local agriculture system, but also enjoy the most delicious (often organic) produce at their peak of freshness. Weekend warrior project: Try your hand at pickling or canning vegetables to be enjoyed throughout the winter months.

 Katie McCall is a bona fide Midwestern girl. Raised on four acres of rural property in Yorkville, she was taught to respect nature and all of its bounty. From foraging morel mushrooms in the woods to picking wild raspberries for homemade jam, Katie feels most at home when in nature and preparing food for others.

When she’s not running the downtown St. Charles bakery Two Wild Seeds, she can be found nose-deep in cookbooks, exploring the outdoors with her family — and eating … always eating. Photo by Victoria C Photos.

PICKLED VEGETABLES This recipe is adapted and inspired by one of my food idols, Alice Waters. It combines my love of seasonal produce, kitchen sustainability and support of the local farmers market. The vegetables listed below can be interchanged to your liking, and the pickling liquid can be made by itself and kept in the refrigerator (and reheated) to pickle vegetables at the ready.

Makes about 3 cups of pickling liquid

• 1-1/2 cups white or red wine vinegar • 1-1/2 cups water • 3 tablespoons sugar • 1-1/2 teaspoons sea salt • 1 teaspoon coriander seeds • 1/2 teaspoon whole allspice • 1 bay leaf

• • • • •

2 whole cloves Sprinkle of red pepper flakes 3 garlic cloves, cut in half Fresh thyme or dill sprigs Assortment of fresh vegetables cut into wedges or small pieces: radishes, carrots, cauliflower, peppers, green beans, cucumbers, asparagus, onions, green beans, etc.

Combine all of the ingredients (except the vegetables) in a saucepan and bring to a boil.

Add the vegetables in small amounts and cook a minute or two — depending on the size and thickness — until slightly cooked but still crisp.

Remove the veggies with a slotted spoon and allow to cool at room temperature.

Once all the vegetables are cooked and cooled, allow the pickling liquid to cool, as well.

Then, transfer the veggies to jars (or covered containers), cover with the pickling brine and refrigerate.

These make a wonderful, healthy snack or zesty addition to any meal!

Make Yourself at Home!

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 SUBURBAN SUPERDAD 

When ‘WORK FROM HOME’ prompts

‘RENOVATE THE HOME’

A

fter this past year, there are certain concepts a great many of us would not shed a tear to see disappear from our lives and vocabulary, forever.

But no matter how you feel about it, one element of the age of COVID-19 that will likely remain? Working from home.

As a work-from-home hipster who ditched the commute before it was cool, I had long wondered why the idea had not grown more in popularity.

What’s not to like about being able to just push back from the desk on a warm and sunny day in early June?

Or, wake up one snowy morning and simply remark, “Oh, it snowed last night,” without worrying about local road conditions?

But when COVID-19 forced so many to take the plunge, the sudden change clearly showed many had no plans for how to balance work and life, when work and life must share the same few hundred square feet of indoor living space.

That’s why another trend will likely continue for a long while: redesigning and expanding that indoor living space.

10 BITS OF ACQUIRED WISDOM FROM SUPERDAD’S EXPERIENCE 26

Just like working from home, such renovations turn out to be something I know a bit about, as one who recently starred, unexpectedly, as project manager in our own home version of “Love It or List It.” So, with the experience of our home addition project still relatively fresh in my mind, allow me to share a few tips to help you more successfully navigate your own construction projects.

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1

5

2 3

6 7

DON’T PANIC. These words, made famous in Douglas Adams’ “The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy,” top the list. At times, the construction process will be filled with excitement and glee. At others, the good vibes will be swapped for dust, disruption and a bit of despair. But try to keep everything in balance.

The project will almost always take longer than anticipated. We were told the project would take 12 weeks “if everything went right.” (Everything did not go right.)

Things will go sideways. One day, we learned our main sewer line needed replacing. With a giant hole already dug, the change proved no big pill.

But another day? The pro who we hired to oversee the project decided he enjoyed his Florida vacation a little too much. His sudden relocation led to my general contracting debut. With some help from a friend, the project still moved forward.

Again: See Tip No. 1.

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Get out in front of the project as much as possible. TOUGH LOVE TIP: If you are planning a project that involves excavation and concrete, and you want it done this year, you’re likely already too late.

Hire local contractors, who know your community, other contractors and your local inspectors.

Nothing could wipe the smile off my face the day our local building permit coordinator told me how happy they were we hired one particular local contractor. The small additional cost was worth every penny.

Speaking of building departments: Get friendly with them. Then, keep them updated. No bribes (obviously), but smiling faces, no surprises, no drama, always.

Ask lots of questions: to bankers, contractors, inspectors, everyone involved. There are stupid questions. But ask anyway. And if your contractor won’t answer your questions, you may need to find different contractors.

For example: Ask your excavator if their bid includes dirt disposal. (Yes, seriously.)

8 9

Watch and learn. Take the chance to watch your contractors work, without getting in the way. You might be surprised what kind of home maintenance skills you pick up.

Take photos. You’ll want to show and tell everyone all about your adventure. Plus, you’ll have keepsakes of an unforgettable time in your family’s life.

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Remember, throughout: Ultimately, this is your house, and you will live in it.

Enjoy the journey. And: See Tip No. 1.

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

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Right Plant Righ

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see any number of plant and landscape issues every day. Drainage problems.

Rabbits or deer damage. Winter burn.

Pruning nightmares. Neighbor’s “stuff.”

Too much shade. Too much sun. Dead grass. Grass in groundcover beds. The list of landscape woes goes on and on. But the biggest issue I see is plants located in the wrong spots and then struggling, dying or being butchered by poor pruning.

a few years (often less than 10) and that cute little river birch is now 25 feet tall and wide, and its root system has made itself at home under your paver patio’s gravel base. Now you have to cut it down, and you are angry at the plant when it was just doing what came naturally. A little more thought before the birch was planted and instead, you could have a beautiful tree lilac that behaves itself and will cast shade and flower but stay less than 20 feet, fully grown.

I am a firm believer in RIGHT PLANT, RIGHT SPOT. So many landscape issues are caused by plants in the wrong spot. I get it — that cute little river birch you grabbed on sale at the end of the year needed to be planted, and the only open space you had was 3 feet from the corner of your patio. Flash forward just

We want plants to do jobs for us. But like any human doing a job, the plant wants to do its job and do it correctly the first time with as little human interference as possible. I always tell folks to figure out what size they want the plant to be full grown.

Do you have room for a 20-foot tree? Or only room

for a larger shrub like a viburnum that will bloom and grow with little maintenance and stay under 10 feet? At least once a week someone tells me, “But I won’t be here that long” — I get that, too. You may not live in your house forever. Or you may stay longer than you expect. Do you want the cost of removal down the road? Think in advance of what you are planting, and you’ll be rewarded with many years of hands-off maintenance.

Plants take care of themselves if they are happy in their spots. You shouldn’t force a plant to do something it doesn’t want to do. If something wants to get to be 6-8 feet tall (such as a dwarf burning bush), having to trim it 10 times a year to keep it 3 feet tall isn’t doing anyone any favors. You are damaging the plant’s longevity as well as wasting

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ght Spot Let us grow them into the garden of your dreams.

your summer trimming every weekend.

Instead, choose a dwarf weigela or a small shrub rose. They will max out at 3-by-3 untrimmed! See? No maintenance and lots of color.

Making smart plant choices is the easiest way to create a “No to Low” maintenance garden. There is a plant for every single situation you can think of. We are lucky to have so many plants in Illinois working for us! If you need help choosing the right plant for your spot, never hesitate to ask a plant person. I know that I love to see plants untouched in the landscape, and my clients are happy because they don’t have to do anything to it!

Meagan is the Senior Landscape Designer at Wasco Nursery in St. Charles. She can be reached at 630-584-4424 or design@wasconursery. com. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter!

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the summer grilling headquarters over 150 varieties of sausages and smoked meats, all made in-house!

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A HOUSE Divided Former Batavia Boardwalk Shop owners split a renovated space to create Wilson Street Mercantile

By Chris Walker | Photos by Hannah Hoffmeister and provided by Wilson Street Mercantile shop owners

I

got it from the Merc.

Those six simple words will go a long way toward bringing folks to the recently opened Wilson Street Mercantile in Batavia.

Under one roof at 222 E. Wilson St., you will find Light & Pine Collective, Desmond Brown Goods, The Other Half Simply Him and The Unboring Granola.

“When people get amazing wall art, candles and home decor and are asked where they got it from, our goal is for them to say the Wilson Street Mercantile,” says Kasey Hoag of The Other Half Simply Him. “How great it is to get people to shop in Batavia and there are a lot of unique hidden gems here.”

Hidden gems can be found in each of the four shops, but first shoppers must uncover the HOME & LIFESTYLE MAY 2021

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THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT!

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hidden gem that is the Wilson Street Mercantile, which came to life after the small shops were looking at their next move after operating at the Batavia Boardwalk Shops last year.

find witty T-shirts, funny socks, hats, cologne and more casual gifts and apparel. The whole idea was designed by me listening to my customers and my husband.”

“When we were at the board shops, local Realtors were showing us a lot of options for permanent space, but none were looking good,” says Kelly Desmond, owner, maker and designer of Desmond Brown Goods. “We’re used to a smaller footprint, and it’s hard to move into something 10 times the size.

This little house on the radar was too big for us, but divided, it’s perfect for the four of us.”

Giving off the vibe of “there’s no place like home,” the warm and friendly environment of “the Merc” offers a social shopping experience, something many folks are hopefully craving after being locked down for over a year.

As a designer for almost 20 years, Desmond has created an entire line of pillows that has been designed, cut, stitched, screen printed, pressed, stuffed and labeled by hand.

“My main business is the handmade pillows,” she says. “We do a lot of pillows for weddings and new babies.

Our little reading pillows have always been a big hit with a little pocket for the book in front, and unique things are our main products.”

At The Other Half Simply Him, you’ll find men’s casual apparel along with the kinds of gifts one will enjoy while wearing it, including coffee mugs, bloody mary mix, whiskey glasses, giardiniera, jerky, bourbon cocktail cherries and plenty more.

“You will find button-down, more weekend wear,” Hoag says. “We’re not your suit and tie place, but you’ll

“The businesses are very different, so by coming together we draw different clients and expose our clientele that’s not our normal demographic to different businesses,” Desmond says. “With the gourmet granola, the men’s store, the kind of a mix of handmade items and gifts and the women artisans, each of our business is different but aesthetically we go well and look good together.”

Jenni Zielke, co-owner of Light & Pine Collective with Suzy Ray, says getting people to come in and wander through all four shops has proven beneficial not only to the shops but to the shoppers.

Those who stroll into Light & Pine Collective will find handcrafted wooden home decor, eco-conscious soy candles and many curated local artisan items, from greeting cards to home and personal accessories.

“We have just opened a party room which is a small place for a pop-up shop or a small party like a bridal shower or birthday, and we’re building a patio where people can come hang outside,”

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Zielke says.

And perhaps munch on some granola that doesn’t taste like granola, but more like what owner Max Mong calls “a delicious buttery oatmeal cookie.”

Using only ingredients and supplies that are sourced in America, The Unboring Granola uses organic heirloom oats from a local Illinois family-owned farm and gets its organic golden flaxseed from a farm in Minnesota. The company works out of a local commercial kitchen to bake fresh granola that is far from boring.

“Ninety-nine percent of the people that try our granola for the first time are surprised, quite frankly, by just how good our Unboring Granola tastes,” Mong says. “That’s why we call it unboring! Our customers appreciate that we use only the highest quality all-natural ingredients. Our small-batch

butter baking process also gives us greater control over the quality of every bag of granola we sell. All of these factors keep our customers coming back.”

The bestselling Original Unboring Granola is designed for snacking, making it an ideal go-to while shopping.

“Several of our customers eat pieces of our granola right out of the bag after they’ve purchased it,” Mong says.

“Our granola is a lot like a cookie so it makes for convenient snacking whether you’re shopping at the Wilson Street Mercantile or working from home.”

Zielke sums up the experience of visiting one building with such a vast array of goods and treats. “Our vision is to be a destination shopping place where you can come and browse a bunch of different things,” she says.

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HOME & LIFESTYLE MAY 2021

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vintage IT'S IN VOGUE

A

s I get older, I have realized that my idea of vintage is different than younger generations...sigh. All things in life are cyclical, and many past trends are resurging right now. Here are a few popular ones and a few ideas for how you can incorporate the trend.

Brass. I know…gasp! It is true — it has come back — but it has gotten a makeover. Nowadays brushed brass or soft gold fixtures are very much a trend. If you currently have brass door handles or plumbing fixtures in your homes, instead of replacing all those, you can play them up and modernize them by adding some brushed brass lighting to update the space.

Wood paneling has also made a comeback, though it lends itself more to modern decor and feels.

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Stained wood paneling can be a great wall or ceiling treatment to play up a feature in a room. Shiplap is still on trend, though possibly working its way out. When used sparingly, these wall treatments can add a lot of character to a space. Think small: Maybe panel a fireplace, ceiling in a den or inside a recessed niche. It’s all about creating detail and interest.

depending on your decor. Today’s shag rugs are preferred to be more muted, focusing on neutrals to create a cozy feel.

Minimalism is also very in. Tone on tone throughout the home, with the intent of letting the home and the views speak for themselves. Many are even taking this a step further and embarking on brutalist design, which focuses on stark, raw elements such as concrete and steel.

Bar carts and host trolleys are also being reincorporated into entertaining space designs. They provide a perfect, hassle-free way to deliver drinks and appetizers to friends and family. They’re much simpler than multiple trips to and from the kitchen and more time to enjoy with your guests. For that reason, we’d love hostess trolleys to wheel their way back into 21st century life.

While shag carpeting has been out for quite some time, shag rugs are very much in. They can warm up any space and create a lush or eclectic vibe

Bring the outside in with plants. Houseplants are back on the rise and can be used to add natural pops of color and improve your indoor air quality.

Consider a plant wall to create a living piece of wall art.

Natural wood furniture, flooring and millwork

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e

CONSIDER CHANGING THINGS UP WITH BRASS FIXTURES OR A BAR CART

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are making a return to the design space as well, especially when incorporated into eclectic or minimalist design. The light tone is uplifting and tends toward a modern look. A light wood reinforces that feeling of more space, as the hues

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create the illusion of a bigger room.

Whichever trend catches your eye, make sure to take a bit of time, consult friends or even a designer to see how to utilize it best in your home!

Reach out for a FREE copy of our staging guide with low cost and no cost tips to help you improve your homes saleability!

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the inside of your home In every room, stand at entryways and look at the room through the eye of a buyer.

What do you see?

Be tough on yourself. What items can you live without while your home is on the market?

FOYER •

DINING ROOM

Make sure you have an appropriate size rug by the front door.

for the home.

•

LIVING & FAMILY ROOMS • •

touch.

Remove personal photos and other extra items

• • • • • •

for a nice centerpiece.

Remove any tablecloths or placemats.

Remove extra dining room chairs if they crowd up the room or take up the corners of the room.

Typically 4-6 chairs are plenty. The room will look bigger. Store the extra chairs in garage or storage unit.

Removing or reducing the number of items in a space applies here too.

and neutral decor.

GENERAL COMMENTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS 1.

Have carpets professionally cleaned or replaced before going on the market.

Replace burnt out light bulbs and make sure all the same tone. In some places you may need a

Make sure lights are on for showings.

Repair and repaint walls & ceilings as needed.

Repair or replace broken or dirty light switch and/or outlet covers.

6. Keep curtains and blinds open during the day and remove heavy draperies and valances.

7. Reduce the number of throw pillows.

8. Neatly stow away afghans and blankets 9. Pack up valuables.

10. Take a hard look at your household plants. Do

those answers they may need to be tended to or relocated.

3.

4.

5.

Call/text at 630-485-4214 | GetOConnor.com SM-CL1868305

11. Fireplaces should be cleaned and mantles

Clean any glass doors or displays.

13. remove a piece of furniture. Pack up all

your next home.

14. Reduce the number of books on shelves.

15.

16.

showings when possible.

17.

smoking in a home.

18. Wash windows and open then prior to selling

19. If you have windows that are “fogged” look

Complete the “honey-do” list of minor repairs around your home. Lose cabinet pulls etc.

KITCHEN

• • • • • • • • • • • •

Repair countertops and edges that may have been damaged or consider replacing.

Clean grout if it has become stained.

Remove all items from the fridge.

Clean the stove top and oven.

hoods.

for showings.

Keep the kitchen sink clean and empty.

Make sure the kitchen faucet is working and clean out under the sink. Make sure there are no leaks.

Remove or reduce small rugs. Too many can make a space look smaller.

Empty the garbage regularly to prevent odors. Hide away your garbage can when possible.

Move pet dishes & beds so they do not

BEDROOMS • • • • •

•

Make the beds daily. ­

solid colored bedding. ­

­

Most bedrooms should have at least 1 nightstand by the bed. Make sure the nightstand has a lamp and is free of

and paint if needed)

LAUNDRY ROOM •

•

YOU ARE PROBABLY ASKING YOURSELF, “WHERE AM I GOING TO PUT ALL THE STUFF I HAVE?” 1.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

THROUGHOUT • •

personal photos if any.

Floor vents and cold air return covers should be cleaned/painted or replace

CLOSETS • • •

Reduce amount of items in closets.

Closets should look like you can add

clear.

Storage is a deciding factor for buyers.

Organize soaps and cleaners in cabinets

Remove excess hangers and put away drying racks during showings.

items.

• •

Rent a storage unit Have a garage sale Donate to charity ­

Store it in the basement Use part of the garage

they can store for you

PET TIPS • • •

Remove or cage pets for showings.

Move pet dishes & beds so they do not

BATHROOMS • • •

• • • • • • •

Coordinate towels. White is the best and the easiest in most spaces. Fold into thirds and hang neatly.

the very least reduce amount of in

and soap.

shower caddy when home is on the market to easily grab all items and remove daily)

Clean or replace the shower curtain.

White or light solid color is best.

with cleaner to brighten and remove any mildew staining.

Many tubs and showers need a fresh bead of caulk to neaten them up.

Remove any toilet seat covers and close the lids for showings.

use just one in front of the shower or tub.

Tuck away all cleaning supplies and make sure under sinks are neat and free of leaks.

*Information from brokermetrics, mred, llc as of 12/30/2020

HOME & LIFESTYLE MAY 2021

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 CELEBRATING GARDENS IN BLOOM 9 a.m.-3 p.m. June 26 Tickets: $15 at select local businesses, $16 online, $20 at the door www.pottagardenclub.org

MARK YOUR CALENDAR FOR POTTAWATOMIE GARDEN CLUB'S SUMMER GARDEN WALK

By Allison Bills | Photos by Brock Seney

he famous Audrey Hepburn quote — “To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow” — rings even more true this summer after the past year of uncertainty. It’s refreshing to have the familiar face of spring urge its green buds to emerge from the dirt and transform yards into lush landscapes, ushering in the sights, sounds and smells of summer.

T

The Pottawatomie Garden Club of St. Charles will be celebrating all the extra time spent freshening up gardens with its “Celebrating Gardens in Bloom” garden walk June 26.

“It’s an opportunity to see just a few of the beautiful home gardens that we have in St. Charles,” says Betsy Anderson, president of the Pottawatomie Garden Club. “There are obviously many, and many have been on walks in the past.”

The St. Charles Garden Walk, which first debuted in 1959 and is typically held biannually, showcases a handful of stunning home landscapes in the community. It serves as the main fundraiser for the Pottawatomie Garden Club, which is known for planting flowers on the Main Street and Illinois bridges and around the St. Charles Municipal Building, as well as awarding scholarships to local

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horticulture students.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the club was not able to host the walk as scheduled in 2020. “It’s rough,” Anderson says. “We’re in the same boat as a lot of organizations that were not able to hold their fundraisers.”

But the club knows it has something special in store this year. While it usually starts coordinating the event over a year in advance, organizers had some extra time to select the homes this year — and homeowners had some extra planning time.

looking for a reason to get out, and it’s held outside, so a lot of people are comfortable with that.”

In addition to the walk itself, gardeners can go home with a little treat of their own. At one of the open houses, the club will be hosting the Garden Gate Boutique, which will have gently used, gardenrelated items available for sale. “It’s really fun,” Anderson adds, noting that it is used as another fundraising effort for the club. “Garden Club members donate items that may be sitting in their shed or garage that they don’t use anymore.”

“We usually pick houses with yards that are well planned and well cared for,” Anderson says. “It usually features a specific garden style or focal point like a pond or waterfall.”

All of the homes are on the east side of the river within a short driving distance of one another, with a full lineup released upon ticket purchase.

There will be some slight changes this year, due to safety reasons. There will be no refreshments or beverages served, and there are five homes instead of six. However, Anderson doesn’t think the changes will impact the overall feel of the event.

“Everyone can take something from spending time in a garden, no matter how elaborate or simple it is,” Anderson says. “It’s an opportunity to connect with nature, and especially in the times that we are living in, it’s so important.”

“We feel like it’s something people really look forward to,” she says, adding she’s personally excited to check out two of the homes that have backyard pools. “I think people are really going to be

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IT’S NOT TOO LATE

F O R YO U R 2 0 2 0 I R A !

G

ood news!

Not only is it getting easier to get a COVID-19 vaccination, but you still have time to fund your 2020 IRA as we have an extra month to file our 2020 taxes! After this past year, it’s about time that things are breaking your way!

38

Taxpayers of all ages may be able to claim a deduction on their 2020 tax return for contributions made to their Individual Retirement Account made through May 17, 2021, and, unlike in past years, there is no longer a maximum age for making IRA contributions.

Contributions to a traditional IRA are usually tax deductible, while distributions are generally taxable.

There is still time to make contributions that count for a 2020 tax return, so long as the contributions are made by May 17, 2021. In fact, you can even file your return claiming a traditional IRA contribution before the contribution is actually made as long as you actually make that contribution by May 17.  CONTRIBUTION LIMITS FROM THE IRS Generally, eligible taxpayers can contribute up to $6,000 to an IRA for 2020. For someone who was 50

years of age or older at the end of 2020, the limit is increased to $7,000. The restrictions on taxpayers age 70 ½ or older to make contributions to their IRA were removed in 2020.

Qualified contributions to one or more traditional IRAs are deductible up to the contribution limit or 100% of the taxpayer’s compensation, whichever is less.

As has been the case in prior years, if a taxpayer is covered by a workplace retirement plan like a 401(k), the deduction for contributions to a traditional IRA is generally reduced depending on the taxpayer’s modified adjusted gross income: • If you are filing as single or head of household with income of $65,000 or less, you can take a full deduction up to the amount of their contribution limit. For incomes more than $65,000 but less

BUSINESS & CIVIC MAY 2021

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than $75,000, there is a partial deduction and if $75,000 or more, there is no deduction.

• For filers who are married filing jointly or qualifying widow(er), that level is $196,000.

• Filers that are married filing jointly or a qualifying widow(er) with $104,000 or less of income, a full deduction up to the amount of the contribution limit is permitted.

Filers with more than $104,000 but less than $124,000 can claim a partial deduction and if their income is at least $124,000, no deduction is available.

• For those who file as single, head of household, or married filing separately and did not live with their spouse at any time during the year, that level is $124,000.

• For joint filers, where the spouse making the IRA contribution is not covered by a workplace plan, but their spouse is covered, a full deduction is available if their modified Adjusted Gross Income (AGI) is $196,000 or less. There’s a partial deduction if their income is between $196,000 and $206,000 and no deduction if their income is $206,000 or more.

 KEEP THIS IN MIND The greatest benefit of having an IRA is the tax-advantaged growth potential of the account. Being able to potentially deduct your IRA contribution is really just icing on the cake.

• If you are married but filing separately and have an income of less than $10,000, you may claim a partial deduction. If your income is at least $10,000, there is no deduction.  ROTH IRAS Even though contributions to Roth IRAs are not tax deductible, the maximum permitted amount of these contributions begins to phase out for taxpayers whose modified adjusted gross income is above a certain level:

• For filers who are married filing separately and lived with their spouse at any time during the year, any amount of modified AGI reduces their contribution limit.

If you have questions about this topic, please reach out to your financial advisor in order to confirm that the tax decisions you make are consistent with your overall financial plan. You are also welcome to contact our team! Our firm is here to help assure your lifestyle and legacy.

Source: IRS.gov

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

FILE# 3548876.1

Photo by Indre Cantero

 Tom McCartney and Sharon Piet are teammates at My Advisor & Planner and are Registered Representatives and Investment Adviser Representatives with M Securities.

Securities and Investment Advisory Services are offered through M Holdings Securities, Inc., a Registered Broker/Dealer and Investment Adviser, Member FINRA/SIPC. My Advisor & Planner is independently owned and operated.

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

Securities and Investment Advisory Services offered through M Holdings Securities, Inc. (Member FINRA/SIPC).

My Advisor & Planner is independently owned and operated.

File #0709-2018

BUSINESS & CIVIC MAY 2021

KCMAG_DUMMY May.indd 39

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ADVENTU MINI-GOLF

AWAITS AT RIVER VIEW

By Sara Carlson | Photos provided

W

hether you’ve been coming to River View Miniature Golf Course for decades or it’s your first time, the 18-hole course provides a new adventure every time.

Sitting along the banks of the Fox River in Pottawatomie Park, River View has been a recreational destination in the community for 50 years. It is now open for the season.

“With the course’s varied obstacles and unique design, no two games are the same.

You may play for leisure one day and friendly competition the next. Try a new route on a particular hole, or strive for a personal best — a new adventure awaits every time,” says River View Supervisor Sabrina Hunley.

So, grab your children, grandchildren or friends. Make it a play date, date night or afternoon getaway. Plan an outing for your church group, sports team, mom’s club or

40

coworkers. Or celebrate a birthday with a mini-golf party.

Warm up your putt-putt skills with “Beginner’s Luck” in Hole 1 and “Crazy Eight” at Hole 2. But don’t get too confident, as the obstacles begin to ramp up along the way. The course incorporates rocks, tunnels, hills, logs, a windmill and lighthouse, among other physical barriers. Enjoy the entertaining hole names throughout, such as “I Dare You” at Hole 4, “Dead Man’s Curve” at Hole 6, “Rocky Road” at Hole 9, “Leap of Faith” at Hole 13 and “Blindman’s Bluff” at the final hole.

Don’t forget to snap a few photos, as the Fox River provides a calming and picturesque backdrop. There are also water features on the course that make for fun photo opportunities including the babbling brook, waterfall and waterwheel. Or cozy up with family and friends to snap a shot in the Victorian-style gazebo.

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Once you’ve completed the 18 holes, grab a treat or drink at the refreshment stand.

River View also rents kayaks and pedal boats, including two new swan pedal boats this year. Rentals are by the hour, and tickets can be purchased at the River View hut.

But why stop there? Take advantage of all Pottawatomie Park has to offer. Let the kids burn some energy at the playground; hike up the stairs of Pottawatomie’s ornate tower to take in the views from the top; or enjoy a 50-minute public cruise aboard a paddlewheel riverboat.

URE

River View Miniature Golf Course continues to implement safety measures such as enhanced cleaning of the putters and balls, socially distanced floor decals as well as separate exit and entrance doors.

Through May 30, the course is open Saturdays and Sundays, but come May 31, mini-golf will be offered every day of the

week. Also beginning in June will be Putt-n-Save Days, offering discounts, treats and prizes to patrons.

And, in July, there will be several specials to celebrate the 50th anniversary. On Memory Lane Mondays, guests can play the course for only 50 cents — the same cost it was back in 1971 — from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Or on Treasure Token Thursdays, the first 50 players will receive a novelty golf ball.

Adding a little more fun and challenge to the course this year, there will be spinning signs with wacky tasks to perform before you putt on different holes.

The par-42 course is wheelchair accessible.

For more information, visit River View at www.riverviewminigolf.org or call Sabrina Hunley at 630-513-4329.

Fun ‘FORE’ Everyone!

Scenic Views Along the Fox River 18 Holes of Challenging Miniature Golf 9 Holes Wheelchair Accessible Par 42 Windmill Lighthouse Bridges Waterfall Sand Traps Interactive Babbling Brook Refreshment Stand Kayak & Pedal Boat Rentals

SERVING THE FOX VALLEY AREA FOR OVER 45 YEARS

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Ages 16+ . . . . . . . . . . . $7 Weekends Ages 6-15 . . . . . . . . . . $6 May 1-30 & Ages 5 & under . . . . . $3 Aug 14 to Groups of 10+ . . . . . . $5/person Sep 26 Twilight $5 (valid 1 hour before closing) In Pottawatomie Park • 8 North Avenue, St. Charles

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OPEN Daily

May 31 to Aug 10

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EXPLORE y a w a t e G By the Elgin Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

S

ummer is a great time to escape with the family. Elgin area businesses and attractions have continued to implement strong health and safety standards to ensure the peace of mind for you and your family. And we have already done the planning for you!

Day 1 Start your trip with the basics: checking in to where you’ll be staying. Hotel deals can be found at www.

ExploreElginArea.com.

After checking in, head to South Elgin for the afternoon. Epic Air Trampoline Park is a great way to burn off some energy. But if fresh air and time outside is what you’re looking for, stop by SEBA Park. This park is outfitted with equipment for picnicking and play. The Fox River Trail runs directly through it, so you can hop on the trail and do some natural sightseeing all the way into Elgin! The Fox

River Trolley Museum is located nearby for an outdoor museum experience.

DAY 2

the playground! This park is also used as an event venue, notably for the Elgin Parks & Recreation’s Movies in the Park series.

DAY 3

Get the day rolling by heading to Elgin for an exhibit!

There are many museums in the Elgin area like the Elgin History Museum or the Elgin Public Museum that feature interactive exhibits that are great for kids. Near the Elgin Public Museum, you will find Lords Park. Lords Park is a scenic park known for its beautiful pavilion and zoo where you can visit the bison! Another great museum is Elgin Fire Barn No. 5 — this was the last fire barn to be decommissioned.

Built in 1903, this historically recognized landmark now houses the city’s fire-related collection of memorabilia!

After checking out, head over to Santa’s Village Azoosment and Water Park: This Christmas-themed amusement park is home to thrill rides, a zoo and Santa Springs, its water park! For more outdoor adventure, you can stop by Randall Oaks Zoo, a barnyard zoo home to a variety of kid-friendly farm animals for viewing and feeding. Come visit the mini horses, emus, reptiles, fox and great horned owls!

And if your family loves animals, Enjoy Pioneer Farm offers the opportunity to hold and interact with baby farm animals in the spring and summer months.

Spend the afternoon getting some fresh air at one of Elgin’s over 70 parks and open spaces. Festival Park is located right along the Fox River and is a great fishing spot. The kids can cool off in the splash pad, enjoy some of the local public art and explore

A great way to end your weekend getaway is to take a step back in time at the Underground Retrocade.

Enjoy numerous cabinets of arcade games! And you can forget the quarters — for $15, you get a wristband for unlimited plays!

CHECK OUT TRIP IDEAS AND WEEKLY EXPLORE ELGIN BLOGS FOR INSPIRATION. Visiting www.ExploreElginArea or any of the @ExploreElgin social media accounts is the first step to a relaxing time with your loved ones.

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SM-CL1875709 SM-CL1875709

KCMAG_DUMMY May.indd 43

4/21/21 4:15 PM

SM-CL1877636

KCMAG_DUMMY May.indd 44

4/21/21 4:15 PM