KCR_Kendall County Magazine_042519

Kendall County MAGAZINE

SPRING 2019

2019

Home & Ga r den

Floral frenzy E d i t io n

Beautiful blooms to boost your backyard bliss PAGE 13

INSURING YOUR UPGRADES PAGE 20

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DYNAMITE DIY PRODUCTS PAGE 19

EXPERT TIPS FOR A CLUTTER FREE HOME PAGE 16

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PULVERIZED TOP SOIL AREA’S LARGEST SELECTION OF MULCH ORGANIC TRIPLE SHREAD

GREAT FOR PLANTS

M U LC H C O M PO ST B LE N D

TRIPLE SHRED PREMIUM HARDWOOD FINE SHRED

DOUBLE SHRED PREMIUM HARDWOOD MEDIUM SHRED

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VERY DARK

GARDEN BLEND

GREAT FOR GARDENS & PLANT BEDS

TOPSOIL

PULVERIZED

F i n e S h re d

To p s o i l / C o m p o s t - S u p e r D i r t

A L S O AVA I L A B L E : C o m p o s t , S a n d & G r a v e l !

Delivery of 1-25 Yards or Pickup is Available

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5A Commerce Dr., Oswego (Corner of Light Rd. & Commerce)

630-554-2722 • 630-554-8995 • www.montgomerylandscapinginc.com

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INSIDE OUT & ABOUT 5 WINE DOWN Annual Oswego tasting event moves to Village Square.

6 COUNTY FAIRS ARE IN THE AIR Planning underway for Kendall, Sandwich events.

9 FREE AND FUN Enjoy a day for the whole family at Prairie Fest in June.

10 CALENDAR OF EVENTS Check out great local events in the weeks to come!

DINING & ENTERTAINING 12 MY GREEK TABLE Tom’s Cookbook Library takes a closer look at this celebration of Greek hospitality, with a tasty recipe to boot!

HOME AND LIFESTYLE 13 IS YOUR GARDEN GARBLED? Experts off tips for a yard cleanup you can enjoy all year long.

18 SPRING CLEANING Clean out your cabinets and make some money on things you no longer want.

19 EASY PEASY An Editor’s Choice of handy DIY products you didn’t know you needed.

20 CHECK WITH YOUR REP Stay financially safe by keeping your insurance agent updated on all your home improvements.

Spring Is Finally Here!

You know what that it’s prime time for to put their houses market and for buyers looking.

If you’re ready to buy or sell, contact me today. We’ll find you the perfect house with the perfect yard to swing into!

FAMILY IN FOCUS 22 OLD AS DIRT Suburban Superdad Jonathan Bilyk gets nostalgic in the garden.

“I sell houses, you make them homes”

HEALTH & WELLNESS 24 EIGHT WAYS OUT Top tips to banish spring allergies and enjoy the outdoors again.

TRAVEL 26 LIGHTEN UP Travel enthusiast Pete Stadalsky shares his tricks for keeping things light on your next journey.

16 CLEAR THE CHAOS Go clutter free inside your home with advice you can count on.

Success | MAY 2019 |

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meanssellers on the to start

Bobbie Soris Realty Executives Success 1107 S. Bridge St., Unit C, Yorkville 630-553-8405 www.bobbiesoris.com KENDALL COUNTY MAGAZINE 3

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Kendall County

Editor's Note Finally, spring is here!

The days of cold chills and gray skies are nearly behind us, and after months of winter weather that began in the middle of November, I couldn’t be happier to hear the birds singing in the trees.

It also means two things (at least for me): spring cleaning and great local events. I spent a good three hours of “quality time” with my closet recently, tearing through the items I’ve missed wearing for the last months – the bright cheery colors, breezy fabrics and open toed shoes that just make you feel a little lighter when you wear them – hoping they fit the same and still were stylish enough to carry me into summer 2019.

What became all too clear was that I will need some serious time cleaning out that closet. Home organization has never been my strong suit, but thankfully I won’t have to do it alone – and neither will you! We have experts on hand this month, sharing tips for clearing out, cleaning up and making space for spring!

MAGAZINE

Whether it’s in your yard, on your shelves, or in your cabinets, we have tips, information, suggestions and guidance to help you take your space from drab to fabulous in no time.

We’ve got the low down on all the season’s events and activities, ready to help you enjoy spring and summer in style. From the biggies, like our county fairs and multi-day festivals, to smaller more intimate events, like wine tastings, small group tours, and concerts, its all right here, ready for you to hit the streets and enjoy.

Take a look at all you can find right here at home, and live your life, in style!

Thanks for reading.

KENDALL COUNTY MAGAZINE

Published by Shaw Media 109 W. Veterans Parkway Yorkville, IL 60560 Phone: 630-553-7034 news@kendallcountynow.com PUBLISHER Daily Chronicle & Suburban Weekly Group Laura Shaw lshaw@shawmedia.com LOCAL SALES MANAGER Jaclyn Cornell 630-845-5234 jcornell@shawmedia.com ADVERTISING Kristin Hawkins 630-385-4404 khawkins@shawmedia.com

Sherri Dauskurdas, Editor

Julie Harn 630-385-4402 jharn@shawmedia.com EDITOR Sherri Dauskurdas 630-427-6263 sdauskurdas@shawmedia.com

on the

COVER

If your garden is garbled after the long cold winter, don’t despair! Our local garden center experts are at the ready with all the solutions you need for a yard to be proud of! Page 13

DESIGNER Allison LaPorta 630-427-6260 alaporta@shawmedia.com CORRESPONDENTS Diane Krieger Spivak, Chris Walker, Tom Witom, Erin Sauder, Melissa Rubalcaba Riske, Pete Stadasky and Jonathan Bilyk

est. 1851

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| MAY 2019 |

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Wine down at Oswego tasting event ANNUAL FESTIVAL MOVES TO VILLAGE SQUARE

By Chris Walker

s

ome things change, but others stay the same

For this year’s 13th annual Wine on the Fox, rest assured the vino will remain the highlight, with more than 27 wineries – from Advantage through Winery Exchange – already scheduled to participate at the event, set for o Saturday, May 4 from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday, May 5 from noon to 6 p.m.

What’s changed is the venue. This year’s festival will take place at the Village Square at Oswego Village Hall, 100 Parkers Mill in Oswego, avoiding the dirt and dust of ongoing downtown construction. And an added bonus of the new location is that there is a lot of free parking available, but arrive early to ensure you can snag a spot. Bring your lawn chairs, but keep your tents and outside beverages, other than water, milk and drinks for the kids, at home.

“The great thing about this wine festival is there is no entry fee,” says Julie Hoffman, community engagement coordinator for the Village of Oswego. “So you don’t feel any pressure in dropping by for an hour one day or for two days straight.”

While the food offerings from several vendors, including Pizza Cucina and Wurst Kitchen, certainly complement the wine drinking experience, the same can be said about music, and this year’s event delivers a variety of live performers totaling more than 15 hours of live entertainment, laying a backdrop to the sampling of different wines – more than 190 different kinds – and also some wine education opportunities.

“It’s a big draw for people to kind of meet up

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OUT & ABOUT

with their friends and hang out for the weekend,” she says.

On Saturday, Sweet T is scheduled to perform from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., and will be followed by Cadillac Grove from1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. and Wild Daisy from 3:30 p.m. until 5:30 p.m. Saturday’s headliner has not been announced yet.

On Sunday, Vicarious with Jason Perkins will get the day started from noon until 1:30 p.m., while The Noize takes the stage from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. Junkyard Groove will deliver the encore on this year’s event by closing things from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.

Wine tasting packages are on sale through Eventbrite or in person at Village Hall. Advanced ticket purchases are strongly recommended.

Packages include Intro to Wine ($15), which includes seven wine tasting tickets, a commemorative Wine on the Fox glass and a wristband, Wine Lovers ($20), which includes 14 wine tasting tickets, a glass and wristband and Wine for Two ($25), which includes 14 winetasting tickets and two glasses and two wristbands.

Those with little ones should bring them along, although the children’s programming is particularly suited for those between three and six years old. A sandbox, soft play blocks/ play mat, playhouses and more should keep the young ones occupied and happy.

“It’s a family friendly event,” Hoffman says. “We do have a lot of activities that we’ve added so that the kids will have the ability to play while mom and dad enjoy the bands and have a couple of drinks.”

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Planning underway for Kendall, Sandwich events

By Diane Krieger Spivak

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OUT & ABOUT

| MAY 2019 |

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IT’S EASIER TO SELL YOUR HOME WHEN IT’S SPRING BEAUTY IS BLOOMING.

I

LOOKING TO SELL IN THE SPRING? t may be early in the season, but organizers of the Sandwich Fair and the Kendall County Fair are working hard to get their fairs in full swing for August and September.

Whether buying or selling, now’s the time to spring into action... and we have a plan to get you where you want to be!

The Kendall County Fair, in Yorkville, slated for Aug. 1-4, has been entertaining visitors for 178 years. As for the reason for the fair’s longevity, Kendall County Fair Board President Mike Drendel may have hit the nail on the head. “We just have lots of fun here,” says Drendel. “It’s very neighborly, and the place where family and friends come to meet.”

The food is mostly local vendors, including pork and beef producers and corn growers. “They’re the most popular food booths on the grounds,” says Drendel. And the livestock shows, which also include horses, poultry, dairy and rabbits are also crowd pleasers.“We have a real popular truck and tractor pull, a demolition derby, and 4-H is a big important part of this fair, with livestock projects, a large photography and home ec exhibits.”

CALL THE MICHELSON TEAM TODAY AT 630.551.1111

There are a few changes in the offing. The horse show will see a new superintendent this year, who’ll bring some new twists to the show.

One big change is that there will be no carnival this year. “We weren’t getting the rides we’d like to have,” Drendel says. “What we’re trying to do is getting the community more involved. We’re going to try something different. It will be exciting.” While plans are still in development, Drendel did share one component: “We are putting in live remote control car racing — all four days, three times a day. On Sunday, there will be a grand prix race with winners of the previous days. We’re very excited about it and our sponsors, who will advertise on the cars, are still signing up.

People will be selected from the crowd to race those cars on a track.”

As usual, the fair’s agenda also includes games, and, what’s a fair without contests? Here you’ll find not only the annual watermelon and sweet corn-eating competitions, but some new ones, as well, like the Adorable Baby Contest for children under age 3, and My Sister’s Lil Donut Shop donut decorating contest.

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Live bands will entertain daily, with music ranging from motown to contemporary to country, rock to Jimmy Buffet-style.

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OUT & ABOUT

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“This will be the third year for our ever-popular theme photo contest,” says Drendel. “A lot of people like to take pictures, so we have them go around the fairgrounds and take pictures. Then they’re judged right on the spot.”

The junior talent contest has sent its winners to the state fair where they’ve placed in the top 10 for the last four to five years, says Drendel. The parade wraps up on Sunday with a kids’ bike decorating contest and parade.

At 132 years old, the Sandwich Fair is getting a new Future Farmers of America building, currently under construction, but set to be open in time for this year’s event, Sept. 4-8. “It’s a new, metal open-air building,” says Bradley Anderson, general manager

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for the Sandwich Fair Association. “We have our petting zoo in the FFA building every year. It’s one of our more popular attractions.” The new building will include modular pens that can be removed so the structure can be used for picnics or other displays.

This year’s fair, which draws 140,000 to 180,000 visitors annually, will also feature a free equipment roundup display where operators will show their skills with a few tricks in mind.

What to look for if you go? A fair food favorite is Fay’s Pork Chop Bar-B-Que, notes Anderson. “Then there’s the train. People like that.” It’s Augie Otto’s open-car model steam engine all ages can ride on, operated by the Ottos since 1974 — a scale model

OUT & ABOUT

of the Burlington steam engine, replacing the original scale model started in 1953.

A big part of the fair is the livestock shows and exhibits. Look for the book to come out in June.

“The Sandwich fair has one of largest groups of exhibitors, that’s what’s unique about it compared to other fairs,” Anderson says. “People look forward to participating and coming out and seeing other people’s skills.”

Music lovers can go to the Ag Land Stage or the home arts stage for daily entertainment. “Our Friday night concert release date where we’ll announce our artist is June 23,” Anderson says.

Tickets go on sale July 1.

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Enjoy a day for the whole family of at Prairie Fest in June

By Chris Walker

Free yourself this summer at the 31st annual Prairie Fest where the parking, admission and concerts are gratis.

from pounds and shelters. His dogs have been on Ellen and Oprah and now they’re coming to Oswego.

And if everything goes as planned, you might even get to see and hear the BoDeans perform, “Closer to Free” when they take the stage on Saturday night.

And don’t forget about the parade, duck race, grand prix race, cotton candy eating contest, hillbilly science show, expo village, fishing clinic, 5K run/1-mile prairie dog run, pony rides, quilt show and lots of thrills and smiles via Windy City Amusements.

Prairie Fest, a four-day community celebration with fun for everyone, is set for Father’s Day weekend, June 13-16. An estimated 75,000 are expected to be delighted this summer at Prairie Fest.

“The fact that we have free parking and admission allows the entire family to meet up without feeling like they have to always have their pocketbook out,” says Kristie Vest, special events supervisor for Oswegoland Park District. “The younger kids can go to the petting zoo and get their faces painted and do the obstacle course and the older kids can take Dad out to dinner and a see a great band.”

There will be plenty of great live music in addition to the BoDeans, beginning with cover band Mike & Joe on Thursday night. Jim Gill will provide Friday’s family concert while local punk act Karma is also set to perform. Tricky Mission has the honor of opening up for the Spin Doctors on Friday night and country band Summer Son takes the stage before the BoDeans on Saturday while popular Beatles tribute band American English will be part of the actual Father’s Day celebration on Sunday.

“Sunday is usually relaxed, but I think it’s going to have a new sense of energy with the Beatles’ tribute,” Vest says.

“Everyone loves the Beatles so that’s perfect for Father’s Day.” One of this year’s most anticipated draws is Chris Perondi’s Stunt Dog Show with his talented furry friends, all rescued | MAY 2019 |

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Each year, unique and delicious food offerings challenge festivalgoers to arrive with big appetites. Positive word certainly has spread and it’s gone well outside of Kendall County as some of the food was featured on the Cooking Channel’s program, “Carnival Eats.”

Last year’s wide-variety of food options included delectable choices from Kettle Kabin, Spittin’ BBQ & Kickin’ Ash, Steve’s Meat Shop, Suzy’s Fun Foods, Umbrella Azul and more.

Whether it’s traditional items – like burgers, pizza and ribs – or more eclectic selections such as alligator-on-a-stick, deep-fried Oreos, and grilled turkey legs, you’ll probably find it. And don’t forget that pesky sweet tooth! Although with plenty of shaved ice, ice cream, smoothies, funnel cakes, apple dumplings, gelato and more, how could the thought of forgetting sweets ever enter one’s mind?

“You’re not just going to get the standard festival fare here,” Vest says. “You’re going to get great fried cheese curds because someone from Wisconsin has come down to make them. We’ll have delicious and interesting cuisine choices that are perfect for the foodies.”

Additional details about Prairie Fest 2019 can be found at www.prairiefest.com.

OUT & ABOUT

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GREAT LOCAL EVENTS AROUND OUR TOWNS CHECK OUT THESE FUN THINGS TO DO IN THE WEEKS TO COME!

 WILDFLOWER WALK WITH KENDALL COUNTY

FOREST PRESERVE Saturday, May 4 10 a.m. - 11:30 a.m.

Farnsworth House 14520 River Rd., Plano Price: $10 Native wildflowers carpet the forest floor of the Farnsworth House property each spring. Join the Kendall County Forest Preserve District and learn how to identify these wildflowers on a pleasant walk of the grounds.

Be prepared to be outdoors and walking; sturdy shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, and water bottles are strongly recommended.

This program does not include a tour of the Farnsworth House; however, attendees will qualify for discounted admission to the guided tour. Please see a Visitor Center associate or manager to make arrangements.

Contact JDowning@savingplaces.org or call (630) 552-0052

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 YORKVILLE FOOD TRUCK RALLY 2019 Saturday, May 4 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Kendall County Fairgrounds 10826 Illinois Route 71, Yorkville The Yorkville Food Truck Rally 2019 is back and better than ever! Featuring over 15 of the area’s best food trucks, live DJ Entertainment, a beer & wine garden and the Vendor Village (featuring local businesses) - it’s fun for the whole family.

In addition, to celebrate the Cinco de Mayo weekend – enjoy the return of the popular Food Truck Taco Showdown! Several trucks will be featuring tacos on their menu - who will have the best one - you decide! Just eat, and vote on our online FB page poll to help pick a winner.

General Admission into the fairgrounds will be $4 online and $6 at the door. Kids 10 & under are free with a paying adult.

Want first crack at your favorite food trucks? Grab an Early Eater Pass ($6 online or $8 at the door). Join us from 11 a.m.-12 p.m. for exclusive access to the grounds & the trucks before the General Admission session begins @ noon.

OUT & ABOUT

May the 4th be with you! Dress up in your favorite Star Wars outfit and enjoy free admission starting at noon!

Ample free parking will be available on site. Food & drink will be sold separately from admission This event is family friendly. Cash & Credit available at gate and most vendors A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Kendall County Fairgrounds Association, a non-profit 501(c) (3) organization..

Feel free to bring lawn chairs & blankets! Please leave pets at home.  MOTHER’S DAY SOIREE WITH APPETIZERS

AND A TOAST TO MOM Tuesday, May 7 6:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m.

Arranmore Farm + Polo Club 34 Rance Road, Oswego Come together to create a flower centerpiece with mom or for mom! Enjoy appetizers along with a toast of Champagne for a fabulous night out, all included in your ticket. Wine will be available for purchase. At the end of the night bring home your unique creation!

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Sponsored By Alice’s Table. Tickets available at Eventbrite.com  THE MIDWEST BULLRILLA

INVASION Saturday, May 18 8 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Kendall County Fairgrounds 10826 Illinois Route 71 Yorkville Enjoy an entire day of pit bulls and reptiles at the fairgrounds. 4 ABKC sanctioned shows, junior handler show, fun show, k9 obstacle course, bounce houses for the kids, food vendors, custom awards and much much more!!  HEARTLESS – A TRIBUTE TO HEART Saturday, May 18 7 p.m.

Sandwich Opera House 140 E Railroad St., Sandwich Price: $22.00 to $28.00 Heartless brings the music of Heart to life, offering an evening of the Wilson sisters’ classic sound - the driving beat, the burning guitar riffs, and the soaring, signature vocals. The band delivers a true concert experience, capturing the fire and fury of all your Heart favorites.

Heartless has performed on theater and festival stages throughout the Midwest and has gained recognition for their trueto-the-original renditions.

The band was formed in 2008 by lead vocalist Lynn Lupo, and keyboardist/ manager Bob Roberts, and joined on stage by the multi-talented Kelly Ott and a band of award-winning players who have honed their musicianship over decades of live performance. Together, they deliver a performance that is both powerful and captivating. Heartless’ high energy show includes songs from the entire Heart discography, from the 70’s to today - songs like “Magic Man”, “What About Love” and “Crazy on You” - and is sure to excite both the classic rock lover and the true Heart fan.

The show also includes songs Heart has covered from other classic rock icons including Led Zeppelin and The Who. From the gentle acoustic sounds of “Dog and Butterfly” to the galloping riffs of “Barracuda”, seeing is believing.

More information available at www.

SandwichOperaHouse.org

 HARMONY & HOPS Saturday, June 15 3 - 5 p.m.

Farnsworth House 14520 River Road, Plano Price: $40

around 6:30. The next day, Saturday, June 29: Sandwich Early Day Engine Club 48th Annual Show Sunday, June 30th: Tractor Ride

Have Father’s Day weekend plans? Bring Dad out to sample Penrose Brewing Company brews and enjoy live music from The Lucky Ones on the decks of the Farnsworth House! Ticket price includes six 4-ounce tasting samples, bar snacks, a pretzel necklace, and the priceless opportunity to hang out at Mies van der Rohe’s masterpiece.

Contact Jennifer Downing at JDowning@ savingplaces.org  SPRING LAKE CEMETERY

EXPERIENCE AFTER HOURS Saturday, June 22 8 - 11 p.m.

Spring Lake Cemetery 745 S Lincoln Ave., Aurora Price: $50—Adult Experience a paranormal tour like no other. It is not a storytelling tour. It is an educational, experience tour. Unlike other ghost tours, this is not a theatrical performance where we carry lanterns and dress up in period costumes.

Offered is a view of the reality of afterlife activities, the paranormal equipment and techniques used are how we separate the fact from fiction. Explore the cemetery and allow the residents of the cemetery to come forward and make their presence known to you. Nothing is staged or pre-set, you experience things in real time.

NOTE: No one under the age of 16 is allowed on the tours. 16 and above allowed, only with a paid adult. A percentage of every ticket goes to the cemetery, to help them maintain the cemetery not covered under perpetual care. Buying a ticket from us will help to preserve, or restore gravesites.

Contact dearlydeparted@afterlifetours.com or (630) 330-3595 for more information or visit go.evvnt.com  SANDWICH EARLY DAY ENGINE

CLUB TRACTOR PARADE Friday, June 28 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.

The Sandwich Early Day Engine Club will be hosting a tractor parade through town on Friday night prior to the 48th annual show on Saturday. Join on your tractor or just come out and watch.

Parade participants will be meeting at the Sandwich Fairgrounds and leaving

For more information contact: sandwichengineclub@yahoo.com or visit facebook.com/sandwichengineclub or sandwichengineclub.com  FOX VALLEY PRO RODEO Friday, July 5 7 p.m.

Kendall County Fairgrounds 10826 Illinois Route 71, Yorkville Big Hat World Championship Rodeo action with 8 exciting events including Bareback Riding, Cowgirls Barrel Racing, and bull riding.

Hilarious, family-friendly clowns, kids games, great food & drinks, vendors, terrific music andfun for the whole family. Food and beer garden will be available! The event will take place rain of shine! For more information, visit www.eventsprout.com

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The Metaphysically Fit Fest was founded in 2012 and has grown exponentially over the years. Every year, the fest brings together people from all walks of life to celebrate expression and unity through yoga, healing workshops, art, and music. The festival brings to Kendall County some of the area’s best and most highly acclaimed yoga teachers, holistic healers, and live entertainment. The fest is family friendly, promoting community, expression, unity, and awareness of cultural diversity. In 2018, the fest boasted 1,200 participants. Every year vendors are on hand offering anything from organic, homemade skin care to crystals and stones to life coaching sessions. In addition to the vendors, the fest is a great place to come to listen to music. Ticket/Registration at www.

EventBrite.com

HAVE A BALL Bowling is a great activity that’s also very affordable.

Come have a ball with us!

We’re open every day.

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 METAPHYSICALLY FIT FEST Saturday, July 20 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Riverfront Park 131 East Hydraulic Avenue, Yorkville

OUT & ABOUT

Sign up today!

209 W. Main St. • 630.552.4177 Located in Beautiful Downtown Plano

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TOM’S COOKBOOK LIBRARY:

‘My Greek Table’

celebrates Greek hospitality

By TOM WITOM

H

ome cooks will find a host of suggestions for good eating in “My Greek Table” (St. Martin’s Press) by Diane Kochilas.

In her latest cookbook, subtitled Authentic Flavors and Modern Home Cooking from My Kitchen to Yours, Kochilas includes recipes inspired by her travels and knowledge of Greece and its products. The book includes starters, main courses and desserts.

“My goal . . . is to share great Greek recipes for home cooks, some regional classics and my own interpretations and innovations,” the celebrity chef writes in a brief introduction. She prides herself on providing recipes that call for accessible ingredients and straight-forward step-by-step instructions.

For an inviting example of Greek fare, try Retro Feta-Stuffed Grilled Calamari (see accompanying recipe).

RETRO FETA-STUFFED GRILLED CALAMARI (SERVES 4) • 1 pound squid, preferably fresh, cleaned (6 to 8 pieces 6 to 8 inches long) • 2 Tablespoons extra-virgin Greek olive oil, plus more as needed • 1 red or yellow onion, chopped • 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped • 1 ½ cups crumbled Greek f.eta • ½ cup coarsely grated graviera cheese or any mild nutty sheep’s-milk cheese such as Swiss Gruyere 12 KENDALL COUNTY MAGAZINE

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• Finely grated zest of 1 lemon • ½ cup fresh ricotta cheese, drained • ½ cup chopped fresh dill • ½ cup chopped fresh mint • 1 medium egg • 1 teaspoon crushed pink peppercorns • Salt and freshly ground black pepper • 2 to 6 tablespoons plain dried bread • 2 lemons quartered

“My Greek Table” complements a 13-part cooking series on Public Television about Greek cuisine.

An accomplished chef, Kochilas runs the Glorious Greek Cooking School on her native island, Ikaria.  Journalist Tom Witom, who lives in Elgin, has written extensively for years about food and the food industry. Contact him at editorial@kcchronicle.com.

Keep the cleaned squid in the refrigerator until ready to uaw.

In a medium skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until wilted and lightly golden. Stir in the garlic. Transfer the mixture to a bowl and let cool.

Add all the cheeses, the lemon zest, dill, mint and egg to the bowl with the onion and toss to combine. Season with the pink peppercorns and salt and black pepper to taste. (The mixture will likely be salty with the feta, so you might not need to add any.)

Stir in 2 tablespoons of the breadcrumbs to help bind the mixture. Test it by shaping a small ball with your hands; if it is still too loose to hold its shape, add more breadcrumbs, 1 tablespoon at a time, until firm enough. Cover and refrigerate the mixture for 30 minutes to help firm it up.

Remove the liquid and filling from the refrigerator. Stuff each of the squid tubes with enough of the filling to come up to about 1/4 inch from the top so that when the stuffed squid shrinks during cooking, it doesn’t burst. (Using a toothpick, close the open end of the tube securely.

Heat a grill until quite hot or heart a grill pan over high heat. Brush the grill grates or pan with a little olive oil. Place the stuffed squid and tentacles (separately) on the grill or in the hot grill pan and cook 5 to 7 minutes, turning with kitchen tongs a few times, until lightly browned all over. Transfer to a platter.

Serve as is or, for a more dramatic effect, using a sharp knife score the top of each squid tube so that the surfaces fan open a bit, revealing the cheesy filling.

Remove the toothpick and serve with lemon quarters.

DINING & ENTERTAINING

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IS YOUR GARDEN GARBLED? Experts offer tips for a yard cleanup you can enjoy all year long

By Erin Sauder

T

he arrival of spring ushers in longer days, warmer weather, and for many people, the desire to spruce up their living spaces.

But that deep cleaning checklist shouldn’t be limited to the inside of the home.

The long winter likely has left your garden area garbled and in need of rejuvenation. Now it’s time to pull on your clogs and get to work.

WHERE TO BEGIN? Richard Hentschel, horticulture extension educator with the University of Illinois Extension serving DuPage, Kane and Kendall counties, recommends starting with a cleanup of the perennial beds. But do so gently, he cautions.

“Nothing forceful. Just a light raking to get all of the leaf litter and twigs and debris out of the beds, and removing any of last year’s dead tops,” he says.

While cleaning up the beds, make sure to inspect them carefully.

“Get up close and personal. Look and see what’s going on. Are bulbs coming up? Did rabbits chew off the tops of the plants? A good visual review of the beds are in order so there are not any surprises later,” Hentschel says.

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4/9/19 5:33 PM

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KN_MAY 2019.indd 14

Get up close and personal. Look and see what’s going on. Are bulbs coming up? Did rabbits chew off the tops of the plants? A good visual review of the beds are in order so there are not any surprises later.

And make sure the yard area surrounding the garden makes your spring cleaning list.

“This winter in particular, with all the winds we had the ice storm that went through, there are a lot of sticks and twigs and debris that needs to get out,” Hentschel says.

But go easy when it comes to raking the lawn to avoid damaging new grass shoots.

Pruning is essential for maintaining plant health. But gardeners should use caution when it comes to pruning back perennials, says Matheu Poust of Schaefer’s Greenhouse, located at 120 S. Lake St., in Montgomery.

“You don’t want to prune any of your spring-flowering shrubs like lilacs and forsythias until after they’ve flowered,” he says. “In late spring,

HOME & LIFESTYLE

right after they flower, then you can prune them off.”

Is mulch a staple in your landscaping?

The spring season means out with the old and in with the new.

“Remove mulch that has been mounded for winter protection around the perennials or shrubs,” says Tina Perkins, of Winding Creek Nursery Inc, in Millbrook. “Now would be a great time to divide perennials.”

Why? Not only does perennial division rejuvenate the plant and stimulate new growth, but it is also a cheap and easy way to increase the number of plants in your garden. And dividing fall blooming perennials in the spring allows them to establish their roots before the winter’s frost. Once transplanted, adequate watering is needed until the root systems are established.

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If you want to make your garden pop, considering planting a mix of annual and perennial plants. Doing so will mean a garden that’s in bloom from spring to fall.

Once the deep spring cleaning is done, make sure your garden area stays tidy throughout the season with regular maintenance.

One way to prevent weeds from cropping up in and your garden area is with mulching. Spreading mulch helps keep weeds below the surface where they will eventually die due to lack of sunlight. Weed killer sprays, both systemic and organic, are also strategies for fighting the battle against weeds.

Weeds, for instance, can grow out of control quickly if they are allowed to flourish.

Cutting back spent flower stems is also recommended to keep gardens looking tidy.

“It’s important to stay on top of the weeds because they will easily overtake the flowerbeds if you’re not paying attention,” Hentschel says.

“The tendency is to throw your hands up in the air and give up. If a bed gets away from you and there are definitely weeds in it I’d go through and pull them before they can go to seed.”

“Deadheading...getting rid of dead flower heads...will encourage more flowers and growth usually,” he says.

“For example, petunias by the middle of summer get kind of long and scraggly.

If you literally just cut them back they will flush the buds out.”

| MAY 2019 |

KN_MAY 2019.indd 15

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HOME & LIFESTYLE

KENDALL COUNTY MAGAZINE 15

4/9/19 5:33 PM

CLEAR THE

CHAOS EXPERT TIPS FOR CLUTTER-FREE LIVING

By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske

Are you buried in papers? Has the collection of school art projects, scouts crafts and coloring pages overtaken your closets and drawers? Are you swimming in pool toys?

If this sounds like you, then don’t despair. With some tips and assistance of an organizational pro you’ll calm the chaos in no time.

Professional organizer Michelle Kinney works with a lot of families and says the No.1 issues is how to reduce the stacks of school paper, artwork and determining what to keep and what to toss.

“It’s a really big challenge,” Kinney says.

She recommends parents store artwork in a bin and at the close of the school year, invite the child to help the parents sort the artwork and select five to 10 special pieces that should be kept.

“Ask yourself why you are keeping it, because chances are in 20 years the kids aren’t going to care a lot about it,” Kinney says.

For Kinney, it isn’t merely about helping families reduce the clutter on the kitchen counter and organize closets. She is teaching them the organizational skills they need to live the life they desire.

“I feel like when you’re living up to your potential, you’re blooming,” Kinney says. “That’s what I feel I can do, help people reach their potential.”

For families it’s often about reducing the collection of papers and toys. For some the goal is improving how space is utilized, such as in a kitchen, pantry or allowing for more entertaining in the living room.

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HOME & LIFESTYLE

| MAY 2019 |

4/9/19 5:33 PM

S

“When I meet with clients I ask them what are their goals, vision and we start from there,” Kinney says.

To help in the kitchen, Kinney says she prefers storing items in clear containers, as opposed to the original packaging.

“It stays fresher in the containers and with clear bins you can see with a glance how much of something you have and it looks and fits much nicer in a small or large space,” Kinney says.

She recommends keeping like items together – linens in the linen closet, pencils together on the desk –to make it easier to find an item, and it prevents overbuying, too. Find furniture that is functional and stylish. An ottoman with storage is a great option for a family as a way to store blankets, toys and games when not in use, she says.

“Give everything a purpose, so it doesn’t become a junk collector,” she adds. “Not having a place to keep things is how clutter starts.”

And Kinney says while it’s fun to visit places like the Dollar Store, to shop for storage containers, it’s essential to reduce first, that way you’re only purchasing the containers you need.

Time and again Kinney reminds her clients it isn’t about “perfect” but rather the progress toward the ultimate goals.

It takes time and effort but whether one prefers to do-it-yourself or ask a professional, it is a step toward improving life overall.

A couple who has lived in the same home for 40 years and is now downsizing will have a lot to get rid of, Kinney says. But it’s not about merely removing unwanted items. Kinney says she reminds clients through the process to focus on the goals and how life can be improved through reducing excess and organizing.

“When people see the results that can happen, the changes from getting rid of so much clutter, it’s inspiring,” Kinney says.

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HOME & LIFESTYLE

KENDALL COUNTY MAGAZINE 17

4/9/19 5:33 PM

Spring cleaning How to make money on the things you no longer want

A

merican households are sitting on goldmines.

Experts estimate there’s almost a trillion dollars worth of unused items in our homes. Rather than letting those things gather dust, people are digging into their closets, garages and basements to make money back on unused items.

If you want to make some money clearing out things you no longer want or use, consider these smart tips:

Many are engaging in recommerce by selling their used stuff through the internet or in-person auctions. In fact, half of Americans plan to resell their gently used goods to support their income this year, according to OfferUp’s Spring Cleaning & Recommerce survey.

And two-thirds of Americans would consider selling gently used items online to free up space in their home.

 SELL ONLINE You can reach a much broader audience and potentially get more money for things like electronics, toys, clothes and vehicles using an app like OfferUp. Simply snap a picture on your phone, add a brief description and set a price.

Safety is always a priority when selling online and meeting people in-person, and OfferUp works with police departments across the country to designate safer places to meet, which you can find in the app or by going to SafeTradeSpots. com. The app also offers nationwide shipping that allows you to reach more buyers for smaller items.

 HAVE A YARD SALE Reach out to your city to learn about any yard sale regulations, then set up shop at your house to sell to people in your community. Make sure to mark items with a reasonable price and promote your sale to bargain hunters that’ll search through your treasures. This is also a wonderful way to meet new neighbors.

 TAP INTO CONSIGNMENT Consignment stores have been a staple for reselling for a while, but be advised that it could

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HOME & LIFESTYLE

take the store some time to sell your items, and the store can take as much as a 50 percent cut on your merchandise for managing the transaction.

On the plus side, consignment stores may be able to sell your items for a higher price than you’d be able to sell them for online, and it can be more convenient to let a consignment store sell for you instead of going through the trouble of listing the items yourself.  POST IN A NEIGHBORHOOD FORUM You can also try posting in your local neighborhood classifieds or on social media.

While websites like Nextdoor tend to be more popular for people listing free items, you can offer a discount to your neighbors and plan on quicker sales since it’s easier to arrange pick-ups and drop-offs when everyone is less than a quartermile from each other.  DONATE For things you don’t end up repurposing or selling, donate them to a local charity. Many nonprofits accept a variety of items in good condition for resale or auction. There are a number of different organizations accepting donations, and depending on what you donate, you can get a receipt for a tax write-off that can hopefully get you a larger refund the following year. (BPT)

| MAY 2019 |

4/9/19 5:33 PM

EDITOR’S CHOICE

EASY, PEASY

An editor’s selection of handy DIY products you need…even if you didn’t know it  ERASE A HOLE PUTTY – Need to fill and ugly hole in the wall where a picture once hung? Forget the mess. This quick fix comes in a stick, much like deodorant, and you simply rub it over the hole to fill. Dust of the excess, and let it dry before painting. Its simple, quick, clean and you can toss it in a drawer so it’s always at the ready .

Family.

Friends.

Community.

 THREAD LOCK – If you have furniture with wooden drawers and knobs, you already know how frustrating it is when the knobs no longer hold tight. You go to grab your keys from inside and the knob comes off in your hand, then you are busting up a manicure trying to get inside. This handy adhesive and some are even removable with heat, like a hairdryer. If you are concerned about mess, it also comes in tape form…but we had better results with the liquid.

We’re all in this together.

 EZ WALL VINYL PLANKS – Love the look of wood plank but not the work? Without an air powered nail gun, it can be a heck of a job, but these vinyl, peel and stick planks did the job beautifully. In a couple of hours, with just a level and a utility knife, we covered a 10 by 20 foot wall. It’s a great way to hide cracks, warm up a room, and create a gorgeous space on trend, efficiently and affordably.

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 FLEX TAPE/FLEX SEAL – Yes, it’s the As Seen On TV product that seals anything. We were skeptical at first, but both the flex seal spray sealant and the tape worked impressively. We used the spray formula to close up cracks in an outdoor shed, weather sealing it to create a hangout for the kids free of rain and bugs (for the most part). We used the tape to patch a hole in the roof, and another on the deck, until the board could be replaced. Very pleased.  GROUT MARKERS – All we can say is WOW. These handy little pens of paint are a quick and easy solution for stained, tired or discolored grout between your floor tiles. Great for full changes or spot treatments. We used it in a hallway of ceramic tile to clean and freshen it before we the house went on the market, and it made the work look like new! Goes on simply, like a felt tip pen.  HEAT ACTIVATED SCREEN REPAIR – This quick DIY fix for a hole in your window screen, door screen… any screen, is simple and finishes clean in less than 60 seconds. All it requires to set is the heat from a hairdryer. We used the Screen Mend brand, and so far, it’s holding well after a full winter, even with the Polar Vortex.

Here to help life go right.® Janna Misek Ins Agcy Inc Janna Misek, Agent 1136 Douglas Road Oswego, IL 60543 Bus: 630-554-1540 Mon-Thurs 9:00am to 8:00pm Friday 9:00am to 5:00pm Saturday 9:00am to 12:00pm Se habla espanol

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KN_MAY 2019.indd 19

KENDALL COUNTY MAGAZINE 19

4/9/19 5:33 PM

KEEP INSURANCE REP UPDATED ON HOME IMPROVEMENTS Flowers rising up from the ground and warm spring sun has emerged after a long cold winter, calling us outdoors and inspiring home improvements. But before digging into a new project inside or around the house the best thing a homeowner can do is give a quick call or email to their insurance agent to make sure everything is covered and installed properly.

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Ryan Watson, a Farmer’s Insurance agent for the last seven years, says this first step can save a homeowner time and perhaps money too.

And installing a battery backup to a home sump pump is a great protection to one’s home and can also provide cost savings, Watson said.

“The No. 1 thing is educating our clients on what they need,” Watson says. “We want to make sure if they need to make a claim, they are able to get what they need. We want to take the time to sit down with clients, making sure we put a policy together that protects their assets.”

Sometimes a shed can be a great way to store extra equipment and yard tools. Fences, sheds and decks which are not attached to the home would be covered under a policy for separate structures, Watson says. Also included in this group would be some children’s play equipment, including a trampoline.

Sharing updates with an insurance agent may not necessarily mean an increase in policy rates. For example, replacing a roof or siding updates could bring homeowners a savings to their insurance policy, Watson says.

Watson says beyond insurance coverage, he highly recommends clients consider a fence or way to prevent unintended users from access to a trampoline.

HOME & LIFESTYLE

By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske

“Kids frequently get injured,” Watson says, adding that even if a homeowner didn’t give authorization, they can be liable for injuries incurred on their property.

Fences also are important considerations when adding an in ground or above ground pool. Watson says at Farmers Insurance, whether it is an in ground or above ground pool homeowners are required to have a fence around it.

“This mitigates the risk,” Watson says.

While Home Owners Associations may have specific rules on the types of allowable fences, the right insurance coverage can assure this investment is protected from weather or other

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possible forms of damage. Watson says at Farmers Insurance, some policy owners can opt for an endorsement that if needed, will provide for a replacement at the full cost, versus the option of replacing the fence for the actual cash value. Watson says fence values can depreciate, and it’s better to have the full replacement cost. He says clients saw the value in this protection when spring winds caused considerable damage to older wooden fences a few years ago.

While the best advice is a quick call or email to the home owner insurance representative, Watson says he

| MAY 2019 |

KN_MAY 2019.indd 21

understands people can get busy and forget to call. For his clients he has an annual check to see if there are any changes that would require adjustments to a policy. Home improvements such as finishing a basement to the purchase of an expensive television or jewelry may warrant policy changes.

Whether it is time to add a new driver to the family policy or to remove a driver who is heading off to college without a set of wheels, Watson says all it takes is a quick call or email to the insurance agent to make sure everything is up to date.

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HOME & LIFESTYLE

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3381 N. Rt. 23 Ottawa• 815-431-0545 woodhillcabinetry.com KENDALL COUNTY MAGAZINE 21

4/9/19 5:33 PM

 SUBURBAN SUPERDAD 

t r i d s a d l O ROOTED IN FAMILY LEGACY, GARDENING BRIDGES THE GENERATIONS With JONATHAN BILYK

his time of year always triggers some of the warmest memories.

As the sun gains strength, at last banishing the cold and snow back to where it belongs – Canada, I believe - the green shoots springing up through the warming soil portend the prospect of better things to come: Days spent outside, boots caked not in snow, ice and salt, but rich, black dirt, the back of the neck dusty, sweaty and sun-kissed, the back sore, but for a purpose with the promise of a payoff.

If 16-year-old me could meet 40-something me, there’s no doubt he’d think this old dude is lame.

But he’d also be stunned to know he’d grow up to actually enjoy gardening.

Or, on reflection, I’d like to think he’d realize it’s maybe not that crazy, after all.

Some of my favorite memories of my grandmother are of visiting with her as she worked in her enormous garden. Perhaps in reality, it actually wasn’t all that big. But in my mind’s eye, it remains huge – easily one of the biggest gardens I’ve ever visited.

Stepping through the red wooden gate, a series of paving stones carried visitors through rows of peas, beans, tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, squash, you name it. A strip of dirt for potatoes lined the garden’s periphery, along with plants that never failed to deliver a bowl of delicious raspberries on each visit in the summer.

(Are you getting hungry, too?)

Elsewhere in the yard, flowers released their scents and kaleidoscope of colors, delighting the

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senses – and setting the stage for a firm scolding in a thick German accent every time my brother and I played catch and the ball would, inevitably, land among a stand of dahlias, gardenias or other blossoms.

My grandmother left us nearly 14 years ago. But every spring, the promise of another gardening season restores those memories.

My own gardening journey began about 17 years ago, when I bought my first house.

The effort would certainly have drawn patronizing praise from my grandmother. But there’s little doubt she would have lent her hearty laugh and wry smile to those meager early attempts at cultivating good eats from the small patch outside that first house.

The master gardener title certainly remains far out of reach. But I’d like to think her smile would be more genuine and the twinkle in her eye more approving of my more recent forays into vegetable production – particularly when that process has included my girls.

Thus far, their involvement has been limited, restricted mainly by their seeming aversion to the prospect of kneeling in mud or working out in the summer sun.

But this spring, we’re trying a different tack: flowers.

As cutting grass holds ever less appeal for this time-starved, aging dad, the prospect of replacing swaths of turf with colorful, sweet-smelling, pollinator-attracting flower beds has only gained traction my brain.

FAMILY IN FOCUS

Perhaps the idea of raising stands of lilies, daisies, dahlias and gardenias will appeal more to them than has producing a bit of edible greenery, and lead them to more favorably respond to dad’s invitation to play in the dirt.

Who knows?

But just as with the vegetable garden, there certainly will be much trial and even more error.

• Laughter will be heard.

• Sweat will be poured.

• Plants will wilt.

• But others will blossom and bloom.

And in the end, perhaps we can, together, produce a more beautiful backyard, and in the process further cultivate this family legacy, so one day, perhaps, the sight of green shoots springing up through the soil will trigger their own warm, sunny childhood memories, as well.

 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.) | MAY 2019 |

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KENDALL COUNTY MAGAZINE 23

4/9/19 5:33 PM

8

WAYS TO BANISH SPRING ALLERGIES

(BPT) - Spring. The time of year when, as poet Alfred Lord Tennyson famously said, a young man’s (and woman’s) fancy “lightly turns to thoughts of love.” That is, of course, if you’re not sneezing, coughing or dealing with itchy eyes. Spring allergies seem to get worse every year. Is there anything you can do to avoid them?

Yes, says allergist Todd Mahr, MD, president of the American College of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology (ACAAI). “You might feel like suffering from allergies is going to happen every spring no matter what, but there are ways to help alleviate your symptoms.”

These 8 ACAAI tips will help you enjoy the season instead of sitting it out indoors.

immunotherapy. That means your allergist will gradually give you increasingly larger doses of whatever you’re allergic to. There are also tablets that melt under your tongue to treat allergies to ragweed, grass pollen and dust mites. Both forms create a tolerance within your immune system.

a fresh look after the long winter. A deep clean will reduce allergens like mold, which build up in basements and other areas where you might not go every day. It’s also a great way to get rid of the pet hair and dander that have built up in places like your sofa. Wash throw rugs regularly, too, in hot water.

1

4

7

2

5

8

SEE AN ALLERGIST. Before the season kicks in, make an appointment with an allergist to find out exactly what is causing those itchy, watery eyes. Discovering the allergen that you’re reacting to is the first step in treating it.

The ACAAI’s Allergist Locator can help you find a board-certified allergist in your area.

FIND OUT IF IT’S ALLERGIES OR ASTHMA. Or both. The symptoms from asthma can be similar to those of allergies. To make matters worse, allergies plus asthma can be a one-two punch for some allergy sufferers. Almost 75 percent of asthma sufferers also have allergies.

Your allergist can diagnose what’s causing your symptoms and offer suggestions for treatment so you can start living the life you want to live.

3

CONSIDER ALLERGY SHOTS... They may be the best way to treat tree, grass, mold, dust mite, cat and dog allergies. Allergy shots are

...OR GET A PRESCRIPTION. Research has shown that most allergy sufferers find prescription medications more effective than those they can get over the counter. But most people don’t go in search of a prescription.

An allergist can discover exactly what you’re allergic to and prescribe the right medication to ease your symptoms.

START MEDICATION BEFORE THE SEASON HITS. Don’t wait. Much like successful pain management involves getting in front of pain before it kicks into high gear, by taking your allergy medications before the worst symptoms develop, you’ll be doing a lot to alleviate those symptoms. If you usually start feeling it in March or April, start taking your medications in February.

6

COMMIT TO A THOROUGH SPRING CLEANING. It’s not just to give the house

WASH THE DAY AWAY BEFORE GOING TO BED. Take a shower and wash your hair before hitting the hay to rinse away pollen and other allergens you’ve picked up during the day. Similarly, wash your sheets and bedding once a week in hot water.

USE THE AC. It’s tempting to throw open the windows and let that fresh spring air waft into the house. The only problem is, pollen and other allergens will waft in with it.

Instead, use your air conditioner and make sure the filter is clean. Change your filter every three months and use one with a MERV rating of 11 or 12.

With a few commonsense tactics, you can get ahead of your allergies and keep them in the rearview mirror all season long.

ABOUT ACAAI The ACAAI is a professional medical organization of more than 6,000 allergists-immunologists and allied health professionals, headquartered in Arlington Heights, Ill. The College fosters a culture of collaboration and congeniality in which its members work together and with others toward the common goals of patient care, education, advocacy and research. ACAAI allergists are board-certified physicians trained to diagnose allergies and asthma, administer immunotherapy and provide patients with the best treatment outcomes. For more information and to find relief, visit AllergyandAsthmaRelief.org. Join us on Facebook, Pinterest and Twitter.

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

| MAY 2019 |

4/9/19 5:33 PM

69 W. Washington St / Rt 34 Oswego, IL 60543

THE

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AND

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We look forward to working with you!

NOW IN OUR 14th YEAR

YOUR FRIENDS IN THE CAR BUSINESS

Ed and Matt invite you to stop by and see how over 60 years combined experience can make your purchase truly pleasant. We are currently celebrating our 14th year servicing the Fox Valley area.

We specialize in vehicles under $10,000 - many in the $4,000$8,000 range. All have been safety checked, serviced and should give you years of driving pleasure as a student, family, work or second vehicle. If you don’t see what you are looking for in our inventory regardless of the year, we will find that special vehicle for you.

We truly appreciate the many loyal customers and referrals we have had over the last 14 years. Make your next vehicle purchase from us and we will exceed your expectations.

THINKING OF BUYING OR SELLING?

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630.486.3119 | MAY 2019 |

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Hill Top Painting Residential & Commercial, Interior & Exterior

KENDALL COUNTY MAGAZINE 25

4/9/19 5:33 PM

The Glass-Half-Full Guy:

TIPS AND TRICKS TO TRAVELING LIGHT STORY AND PHOTO BY PETER STADALSKY

It doesn’t matter if my trip is days, weeks, or months long; one philosophy to which I always hold true, is travel light. Regardless of duration, I’m only bringing one backpack. With my current packing system, I can be packed and ready to climb a mountain or cross a foreign land in about 30 minutes. Over the years, I’ve whittled down a simple, yet functional system of packing and traveling light, without feeling too deprived while I’m out adventuring. Here are some tips on how to lighten up and simplify your travel packing to maximize your experience without being bogged down by your stuff.

 SIZE DOESN’T MATTER For the most part, weight is more important that size. (Unless you are planning on traveling with your pool table, then it’s both.) Instead of thinking about what you have room for in you backpack or suitcase, think about weight. The lighter you can get your bag, the easier it will be to lug around and the less it will serve as an annoyance.

There is one very important relationship you must understand: Comfort and weight are inversely proportional.

The lighter you go, the less creature comforts you have. The comfier you pack, the more you’re weighted down.

26 KENDALL COUNTY MAGAZINE

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TRAVEL

| MAY 2019 |

4/9/19 5:34 PM

River Cruise For Wine Lovers!

Whether you're a weekend sipper or a wannabe sommelier, why not take a cruise where winding rivers and world-class wines flow?

On an Avalon Active Discovery Wine Appreciation River Cruise along the Danube, Rhone and Saone, sniff, swirl, and sip your way past the rolling vineyards of Europe as a certified Master of Wine!

On board learn perfect pairings, while on land walk along the hallowed halls of ancient cellars.

 CLOTHING Overpacking clothing is one of the most common mistakes people make. Clothes consume space and weight quickly. And in case you haven’t heard, they have washing machines all over the world. Don’t be scared to do a load of laundry on your trip. You can even pay 10 bucks and a hotel will do it for you.

Undies and socks, sure don’t skimp, but no one is going to notice if you wear the same shirt to dinner two or three times. For 10 days, it’s not hard to get by with two pairs of pants, five shirts, a sweater, and a jacket. I can’t express enough how important reducing clothing is if you want to lighten your load. Also, spare yourself from accessories, live naked and free for once from jewelry and silly hats! This tip: see if you can cut your total packed clothes in half.

 PACKING TECHNIQUES This is where your wasted hours of childhood playing Tetris come in

handy; packing tricks. If you pack an extra pair of shoes, stuff them with socks, chargers, nail clippers, or whatever weird things you bring.

Rolling your shirts and pants saves space, and don’t be scared to compress your belongings (minus toothpaste). I’m a huge fan of stuff sacks. They separate my belongings into categories and help me compress everything to conserve space. If you’re backpacking, put the heaviest stuff at the bottom, and those few frequently used items in the top pouch. In a nutshell: select a smaller bag and smash it all in.

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 FINAL THOUGHTS We all truly need so much less than we believe. The overarching lesson here is that we find comfort in extra stuff, but it’s highly unnecessary.

It’s fun to strip away as much as possible, while managing to get by.

People often are surprised at how little they need and how stressful excess can be. There is a ancient principle of subtracting from our lives to increase happiness, rather than adding. It goes something like, “the sculptor reveals his masterpiece not by adding material, but by carving it away.”

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u Peter Stadalsky is an Aurora resident and adventurer. He shares his travel experiences with a “glass-half-full” view of the world.

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| MAY 2019 |

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One thing you’ve probably noticed on returning home from a trip is that you didn’t touch half the stuff you packed. My tip here: only allow yourself one bag, and watch the weight of things you pack.

Call us today to book your Wine Appreciation River Cruise!

KENDALL COUNTY MAGAZINE 27

4/9/19 5:34 PM

Do you have painful teeth?

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Is it time to schedule an appointment?

Sedation dentistry may be the solution you’ve been looking for. With dental sedation, you’ll be able to change your oral health and your smile forever. If you’ve had a bad experience with dentistry, we understand. If the needles or the sounds of the drill frighten you, we can help. We are licensed to provide oral and intravenous sedation to help our patients have the smile they’ve always wanted but were too afraid to achieve.

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With the amount of surgery and reconstruction that I had to undergo, I would probably not have been able to go through it without sedation. My experience was great. I was not aware of the entire appointment, so I remember no pain. Dr. Kim’s team made me feel relaxed and comfortable throughout the entire process. I think sedation is a wonderful way to do major dental work, and if you are not great at dealing with the fear of going to the dentist.

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FREE Sedation consultation Expires May 30, 2019

4/9/19 5:34 PM