KCR_Kendall County Magazine_Winter 2023

Winter 2023

Holiday Happenings family-friendly holiday events

page 10

Shopping Local

unique spots in Kendall County

page 16

Fox Valley Orthopedics Eighth location opens in Yorkville page 6

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KENDALL COUNTY MAGAZINE Published by ShawMedia Phone: 630-553-7034 news@kendallcountynow.com

RECORD NEWSPAPERS Kendall County Record Plano Record Oswego Ledger Sandwich Record

PUBLISHER

Herald-News, Morris Herald-News, Record Newspapers & Suburban Life Steve Vanisko svanisko@shawmedia.com

ADVERTISING

Home For The Holidays...

As you decorate your home for the holidays and enjoy time with family and friends, I want to thank you for the pleasure of helping you make your new house a home. May you fill it with traditions, love and wonderful memories.

Happy Holidays!

Kristin Hawkins 630-272-2930 khawkins@shawmedia.com Shannon Eldridge 630-845-5347 seldridge@shawmedia.com

est. 1851

on the

COVER

Photographer Wendy Greenslade of Locked In Photography captures the essence of holiday shopping.

Find out where to shop local around Kendall County this season on page 16!

BOBBIE SORIS Reality Executives Success 1107 S. Bridge St., Yorkville (On Rt. 47 just south of Rt. 126)

SUCCESS

630-553-8405 www.bobbiesoris.com

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Winter 2023

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

(630) 554-9339

Happy Holidays!

18 Years Serving the Community!

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Ed and Matt invite you to stop by and see how over 50 years combined experience can make your purchase truly pleasant.

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What's

Inside NEW IN TOWN

6 FOX VALLEY ORTHOPEDICS OPENS IN YORKVILLE Check out their new state-of-the-art facility

We’re Here For The Little Things That Bug You Free Estimates!

FAMILY & ENTERTAINMENT

10 HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS Find something family-friendly to do this holiday season 14 GROWING INTO BIG SHOES Suburban Superdad reflects on still finding new shoes to fill

After we see the problem. No contracts required.

• Commercial & Residential • Unmarked Vehicles • FHA/VA Termite Inspections • Locally Owned & Operated For Over 50 Years • Serving The Fox Valley Area

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SHOP LOCAL

16 SHOPPING LOCAL Discover unique shopping spots in Kendall County 18 HOLIDAY CATERING Let local eateries make holiday entertaining a snap 20 CALENDAR OF EVENTS Mark your calendars now for these holiday events

BUSINESS & CIVIC

22 WHEN PLANS GO AWRY My Advisor & Planner on how to expect the unexpected

630-897-2100 • AarenPestControl.com • BugLady51@aol.com

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Winter 2023

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We’re Your Unique

Holiday Shopping Experience

Featuring on trend home decor, new bath and body, home fragrance, ladies fashion small to 3x & accessories, floral decor, men’s gifts, Annie Sloan Chalk Paint and more.

Celebrating Our 4th Year!

Join Us Dec. 2nd From 11-3 For Day Of The Grinch!

619 W. Rt. 34, Plano • 815.685.1639 • trendyfindsplano.com • Winter 2023

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New In Town

FOX VALLEY ORTHOPEDICS OPENS IN

By Kelley White | Imagery by Wendy Greenslade of Locked In Photography

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P

erhaps one of the most exciting developments in any community is gaining access to state-of-the-art healthcare right in your own backyard. The newly opened Fox Valley Orthopedics in Yorkville is home to the highest quality of doctors, services and equipment in orthopedic and sports medicine around. Dr. Robert Matlock, Dr. Vishal Mehta and CEO John Brady are bringing their Yorkville practice to the forefront after recognizing the need for specialized healthcare in the beloved Fox Valley town.

“We’ve been taking care of athletes and families from that area for a long time,” says Dr. Mehta. “We have so many patients that come from Yorkville, Montgomery, Oswego and Plainfield that we really enjoy taking care of. Those communities have been very important to us for years and the common thread of information we hear from them is that they love coming there and seeing us, but it would be so much more convenient if there was a location closer to home.”

Dr. Mehta and his colleagues decided to invest in the Yorkville community as an extension of the last eight practices they’ve opened with the desire to serve communities closer to Yorkville and, someday, communities beyond the town as well.

S IN YORKVILLE

A central focus of the new office is an emphasis on sports medicine in conjunction with physical therapy and orthopedic care. “What we’re opening up here in Yorkville is really something special,” says Dr. Mehta. “Our motto has always been ‘always first’ – always giving the absolute best, cutting-edge orthopedic care you can find anywhere.

We want to provide the best physical therapy you can find, and our physical therapy is excellent, not just because we hire the best therapists and have the best equipment, but also because we communicate with our therapists on a daily basis.”

From initial contact with patients to post-surgery recovery, providers are in constant communication with physical therapists to ensure every detail is addressed and patient care is as complete as possible, a rare endeavor in the orthopedic world. “Our communication with those therapists happens at every stage of recovery,” says Dr. Mehta.

Mehta is a sports medicine surgeon and managing partner of the group. “I do a broad spectrum of sports medicine, everything from ACLs and cartilage restoration to rotator cuffs and labrums,” he says. “Our passion is really taking care of communities and taking care of athletes, the parents of athletes and the communities as a whole.”

As an orthopedic surgeon, his colleague Dr. Matlock specializes in sports medicine and is passionate about getting patients back to their personal level of performance.

“It’s the reason I do this,” says Dr. Matlock. “When I can treat the patient in a nonoperative fashion or with a surgical procedure when needed, and they can resume what they love, that is what makes my job fulfilling.”

>>>>>

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>>>>> New In Town

The practice also includes Podiatrist Joanna Chura, DPM, Spine Surgeon Jeffrey Jacoby, MD, and Hand/Wrist Specialist Scott McKay, PA. Foot and Ankle Specialist Eric Bartel, MD, will also be joining the Yorkville team in early January. All equipment found at Fox Valley Orthopedics is top of the line and all Yorkville patients can also use the new MRI machine in Elgin, the new Siemens Magnetom Free.

It is the world’s most advanced MRI machine and delivers better diagnostic images while creating a more comfortable experience for high-anxiety patients.

The Yorkville practice is the eighth location to open in Northern Illinois and CEO John Brady is an integral part of that process. “We offer a full continuum of orthopedic care, including joint replacement, foot and ankle, hand and wrist, spine, sports medicine, pain management, and rheumatology,” said Brady. “When someone comes into the practice, they benefit from the expertise of an entire team of specialists.”

Fox Valley Orthopedics treats all ages, and provides both medicine and a passion for healing communities. Fox Valley Orthopedics is thrilled to bring their innovative healthcare to the community of Yorkville and beyond.

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NOW IN YORKVILLE

Jeffrey A. Jacoby, MD Spine

Robert F. Matlock, MD Sports Medicine

Joanna M. Chura, DPM Foot & Ankle

FOX VALLEY ORTHOPEDICS 1500 Sycamore Rd. l Suite 1 l Yorkville, IL Call (630) 584-1400 for an appointment or visit FVOrtho.com F O X VA L L E Y O R T H O P E D I C S Independently owned for patient-centered care Algonquin l Barrington l Elgin l Geneva l Yorkville (630) 584-1400 l FVOrtho.com Winter 2023

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Holiday Happenings

By Jamie Baker Imagery by Wendy Greenslade of Locked In Photography

As holiday cheer takes over Kendall County communities - and beyond - don’t forget to get festive and support local businesses in your favorite hometown!

Yorkville Celebration Weekend November 17 & 18, Downtown Yorkville

Bring the family to downtown Yorkville and celebrate the start of the holidays with flair!

On Friday, November 17, visit with Santa, take in a festive holiday parade, witness the beautiful Tree Lighting Ceremony and enjoy various live performances by local groups.

On Saturday, November 18, participate in the annual Rudolph Run and Jingle Jog Fun Run, and don’t forget the fireworks and Craft Bazaar!

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y

Oswego Christmas Walk

Main Street in Oswego Friday, December 1 from 4:30-8:30 p.m.

Presented by Allied First Bank, the Oswego Christmas Walk is sure to be another resounding success this year!

Taking place on December 1 from 4:30-8:30 p.m. The Christmas Walk is free and features an incredible amount of fun opportunities for eventgoers.

Take in a host of live performances from choral music to the local choir, a school theater performance and other live entertainment events. Visit Santa at the North Pole and have the kiddos bring their wish lists.

The children will love to see Santa’s reindeer, sled down a huge inflatable hill, take part in crafting, games, giveaways and more. Don’t forget about the awe-inspiring tree lighting ceremony and the first responder vehicle parade featuring festive décor and crowd favorite special guests.

Give The Gift Of Travel!

Oswego Downtown Association will have Pictures with Santa during the Christmas Walk

Are Your Loved Ones Planning A Vacation?

Give the gift of lifelong memories with a gift certificate to go toward their trip.

Or surprise them by planning a trip!

Discover... Mexico, Hawaii, Caribbean, Disney, River Cruises, Europe... just to name a few.

December 1st 4:30-8pm

73 W. Van Buren Photos by Locked in Photography

oswegodowntown.org SM-CL2116671

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Call or stop in! • 630.553.7200 801 N. Bridge St. (Rt. 47), Yorkville TravelServicesOfYorkville.com • Est. 1985 Kendall County Magazine | 11

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Plano Rockin’ Christmas Parade

Oswego Holiday Express

Check out this rollicking holiday parade featuring local choirs, bands and more. There will be a window decorating contest and the presentation of the Ross Greiter Award!

Registration Required Journey to the North Pole with the famous Oswego Holiday Express. Eventgoers are encouraged to wear warm clothing and their best holiday jammies to hop aboard the Holiday Express.

Sip on hot chocolate from the Village Grind and get your turn to meet the “big man.” Every participant, including babies, must be registered prior to boarding and trains leave every 20 minutes.

Fridays evenings include wheelchair accessible trains.

Plano December 1 from 5:30 – 7:00 p.m.

Holiday Lane Craft Show

South Point Center, 810 Preston Ln in Oswego December 8 – 10 from 4:30 – 7:30 p.m.

Sandwich High School December 2 and 3

Make a stop at this wonderful craft expo where you’ll find an assortment of artisanal creations and fine art, located at Sandwich High School.

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Winter 2023

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Polar Express Yorkville Public Library Yorkville Public Library Date TBA

Visit Santa at the Yorkville Public Library and experience a reading of the classic piece of literature, “The Polar Express” by author Chris Van Allsburg. Nosh on cocoa and snacks with the kiddos and have them deliver their Christmas letters to Santa.

This event is a family-friendly favorite in the Yorkville community.

We Have Christmas

Cakes, Cookie Platters, Pies & More For Your Parties, Gifts & Even Santa!

ORDER 7 DAYS PRIOR PLEASE

1004 E. Church St., (Rt. 34), Sandwich 815.786.7774 | AngiesSugarBuzzBakery.com M-F 5AM-6PM | S&S 6AM-2PM

HAVE A BALL This Holiday Season

HOLIDAY PARTIES ARE RIGHT UP OUR ALLEY! Book your family or business party now!

Bucket Of Beer Special 5 domestic bottles for $13 Enjoy A Delicious Pub Style Pizza With Your Beer!

COLOR PIN IS SAT., NOV. 18 • 8PM Jackpot is $7208! • Next is Sat, Dec. 16 • 8pm Lights off... music... drinks... friends... can you do it?

Entry fee is $20. Grab your friends and sign up today!

Bowling is a great activity while the family is in town visiting! Also an affordable activity for kids while they are on winter break (we’re open every day)!

9 PUB STYLE PIZZAS I FULL BAR I LIVE SLOTS JUKEBOX I POOL TABLES I DARTS HOMETOWN LANES & SPORTS BAR 209 W. Main St. • 630.552.4177 • HomeTownLanesPlano.com Located in Beautiful Downtown Plano Daily Hours: Mon 11am-11pm; Tues 2pm-11pm; Wed 11am-11pm; Thurs 9am-11pm; Fri 2pm-1am; Sat 1pm-1am; Sun Noon-Midnight

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TRIPLE ELIMINATION TOURNAMENT IS SAT., DEC. 30.

Call today to sign up!

FREE SHOE RENTAL With this ad ($2.50 Value) HomeTown Lanes & Sports Bar Plano • 630.552.4177

Leave those dishes behind & bring your family for fun!

Holiday Hours: Thanksgiving Day 5pm-Midnight Christmas Eve 1pm-5ish • Christmas Day 5pm-Midnight New Year’s Eve 1pm-1am • New Year’s Day Noon-8pm Kendall County Magazine | 13

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n SUBURBAN SUPERDAD n

Growing into

BIG SHOES Sometimes, adults are the ones who have shoes to fill

A

nyone who has ever visited our home knows The Gallery Wall.

Situated in a hall – not a hallway, mind you – just around the corner from the kitchen, you’ll find this particular Wall.

There is an element that makes this particular 10-foot tall greenish blue wall special: The collection of 11-by-14-inch black frames, each boasting special multi-image portraits, arranged just so, to

visually carry the viewer through each of the years of our daughters’ lives.

Within the frames, viewers can take in the milestones and mementos: The years they each learned to tie their shoes, for instance. Or the year the oldest went en pointe in ballet.

Priceless favorite dolls and stuffed animals also make repeat appearances, along with favorite books and other precious achievements and phases of life

PAINTING (630) 554-9374

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our photographers helped us creatively capture for all time.

which is why we believed it so important to capture that moment at the time.

But on those occasions when I pause before The Gallery, my eyes often linger over one particular image:

Lately, though, that image has lingered in my eye and in my mind for a different reason.

An image of my younger daughter, then 2 years old, accessorizing with a hat, necklace, purse and shoes, not unlike those you may find in the wardrobe of a proper British grandmother.

As a child, walking around in giant shoes was a fun game. But as the years have worn on, I increasingly find myself walking ever more in shoes that have proven hard to fill.

What the image depicts may not seem all that particularly special or unique. It is likely fair to say nearly every person, at some point in their childhood, has played dress up.

In some ways, it’s just the natural turn of life: Children grow into adults, and along the way, assume ever more responsibilities, not only for themselves but for those around them as well, taking on new titles. For people like me, the list of these titles include such superlatives as “dad,” “husband” and, of late, “manager.”

And what child hasn’t, at least once, slipped into the shoes of a parent and stomped around a room or two, often accompanied by uproarious laughter, modulating their voice to mimic what they believe a grown-up may sound like, saying, “Look, I’m daddy!” (or Mommy or an aunt, uncle or grandparent – you get the point.)

Then, often enhancing the laughter, they almost inevitably trip and fall because, as you know, their little tootsies can only keep up the canter for so long in the shoes designed for feet orders of magnitude larger.

But what makes this photo so special is that our little one, from the moment she could walk and talk, always wanted to be older. From her earliest years, she has wanted to be like her sister, or her mommy, or even her dad, in a way matched by few children I’ve ever known –

But what has consistently surprised me along the way is how heavy the shoes are, each time you put on a new pair.

Most recently, that point has been driven home by a new promotion in my career. For the past eight years, I’ve worked and learned under a gem of a boss (not even a drop of snark here.)

Last year, after decades of service, she decided this was at last the right time to retire. Following that announcement, her duties were reorganized and divided between a colleague and me.

But even with just a portion of her responsibilities, I am left amazed, daily, at how she was able to handle this,

and make it all seem so effortless.

I suppose it’s not unlike when children go about their lives, delighting in hearing their parents celebrate their childhood milestones, while not understanding at all the depth of work, service, sweat, tears, pain, late nights, negotiation, elevated blood pressure, prayer, planning, ridiculously uncomfortable conversations, paying (bills) and more that goes into simply plotting a semisuccessful course through adulthood.

So, as I clomp around for a bit, trying to grow into these uncomfortable new shoes, borrowed from my admired friend and forever colleague, trying not to fall on my face too much, allow me to raise a toast in her honor, as she enters her golden years.

Here’s to you, Ann. Godspeed. n 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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Shop Local

in Kendall County

This holiday season don’t forget to find the perfect gift right in your very own community! Check out these local boutiques around town and support local commerce first.

By Jamie Baker | Wendy Greenslade of Locked In Photography

Bella Gia

27 S Main St, Oswego (630) 554-3265 bella-gia-boutique.myshopify.com From casual tops to tanks, camis, dresses, jackets, accessories and more, Bella Gia is a wonderfully charming boutique to find cute women’s clothing. Here you’ll experience a warm welcome while shopping for any occasion.

Located right next to the Prom Shoppe, Bella Gia is a must-visit for fans of Oswego.

Hudson Design House

76 Main Street, Oswego (630) 636-9000 facebook.com/hudsondesignhouseoswego/ Hudson Design House is a curated lifestyle boutique specializing in home decor, clothing, gifts, furniture, vintage finds and specialty goods. Visit our expanded location right next door reserved for local artists and makers! Shop both retail spaces for a unique and inviting shopping experience in Downtown Oswego.

Trendy Finds

619 Walter Payton, Plano (815) 685-1639 trendyfindsplano.com With a little bit of everything and an eclectic spectrum of goods, Trendy Finds is the perfect place to purchase holiday gifts. From clothes to home décor and more, this boutique is always open to those looking for something exceptional.

Floral Expressions

26 S Main St, Oswego (630) 551-4438 floralexpressionsandgifts.net There are few things quite as classic as sending an arrangement of blooms to someone special. For over 20 years, Floral Expressions has been on the forefront of personally delivering their gorgeous bouquets and gift baskets. From corporate events to prom and weddings, Floral Expressions has the perfect arrangement of flora and fauna to make anyone swoon.

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Spotted Sparrow Boutique

Mod Stitch Co.

The Prom Shoppe

27 S Main St, Oswego (630) 554-3265 thepromshoppe.squarespace.com Finding the perfect prom dress or winter formal attire can be nerveracking. At the Prom Shoppe, you’ll be guaranteed to purchase your dream gown or tuxedo.

Choose from a long list of popular designers and a price range according to your budget.

Bentley’s Pet Stuff

100 Main St, Oswego (630) 551-3647 shop.petstuff.com Who can forget about fur babies for the holidays? Bentley’s has everything from premier foods to the highest quality pet supplies for any shape and size. Make sure to check out their holiday collections to make your pets as festive as possible!

Your hometown plumbing, heating & cooling company 24 hour emergency service available Commerical and Residential

54 W Countryside Pkwy, Yorkville (630) 708-3140 modstitchco.com Comfortably stylish is the name of the game at Mod Stitch Co. in Yorkville. Cozy crewnecks, the perfect pair of jeans and walk-all-day sneakers – they have a little bit of everything to offer. Need a shacket? A dress for a casual holiday party?

The most comfortable tailgate outfit? Look no further than Mod Stitch Co.

303 S Main St, Sandwich (815) 342-2440 spottedsparrowboutique.com From “little sparrows” to mommas seeking versatile styling, Spotted Sparrow Boutique is a one stop shop for any family this holiday season. Owned by a mother of two looking to make other moms feel confident in their daily attire, Spotted Sparrow offers sizing from small to 3XL as well as toddler sizes for the kiddos.

Check out their new arrivals every week and find something to enjoy!

WE’VE BEEN SOLVING PROBLEMS SINCE 1972!

The world has become a different place and our homes are our safe havens!

It’s important we feel comfortable and safe with who we invite in it.

RJ Kuhn is your hometown plumbing, heating, and cooling provider with a staff of your fellow trusted community members as employees that are licensed and insured!

585A State Rte 31, Oswego, IL 60543 • 630-554-3336 • rjkuhn.com Winter 2023

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M A K E I T

Local caterers lend a hand for holiday celebrations By: Patricia MacMillan

The holidays are for spending time with friends and family, sitting down to a sumptuous feast amid lively conversation and laughter.

But preparing and cooking such a meal for a large group is undoubtedly one of the season’s biggest stressors.

Thankfully, professionals are standing by to take on the task so hosts can savor the company of their guests rather than toil for hours over a hot stove.

Ginger + Soul

131 E. Hydraulic St., Yorkville 630-385-2416 www.gingerandsoulrestaurant.com In addition to its weekly Sunday brunch offerings, the intimate Ginger + Soul, which sits alongside the Fox River, offers a robust catering menu for those looking to lighten their hosting load. Beginning in November, customers can purchase heat-and-serve sides and pies for Thanksgiving via Ginger + Soul’s website.

The dishes will be available for the Wednesday before the holiday. Other options include spreads with assorted cheeses, pickles and seasonal jams. A wide array of salads as well as entrees like Mediterranean pork loin and lemon basil pasta alfredo round out the savory offerings. As the holidays approach, the business will sell their German cookie trays, which feature 12 different delicious varieties.

Ginger + Soul is available for pick-up or drop off.

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Danelli’s Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria

228 E. Washington St., Oswego 630-554-2990 www.danellisitalianrestaurant.com Founded more than 40 years ago, Danelli’s has seen plenty of holidays, and its made-from-scratch pastas and other tried-and-true fare is sure to bring on second helpings. Touted as “the best,” the eatery’s homemade lasagna. Other pasta options featured are mostaccioli, ravioli and stuffed shells florentine. The menu also includes traditional dishes such as baked ham as well as Italian beef and sausage. Salads include Caesar, garden, antipasto or caprese, and the restaurant makes available extra marinara, meat and vodka sauce by the quart.

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A Very Merry

Christmas Market Fri, Nov 17 • 5pm-9pm & Sat, Nov 18 • 9am-3pm

Upper Crust Catering Company

KENDALL COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS, YORKVILLE, IL

109 E. Hydraulic St., Yorkville 630-553-9533 www.uppercrustfoods.com Upper Crust prides itself on its ability to accommodate groups of all sizes, from small gatherings to large-scale events. The business offers a number of catering options, from breakfast with eggs and sweet breads to buffets with more than 35 entree selections. Hot appetizers such as crabmeat-stuffed mushrooms reside alongside prosciutto wrapped asparagus spears. Main meal favorites include the establishment’s famous seasoned pork chops. Roast turkey with sage stuffing and gravy seems a fitting dish to celebrate the holidays while vegetarian options like eggplant parmesan and spinach lasagna are also highlighted. Dessert takes many forms from mini cream puffs drizzled in chocolate to apple crisp.

FARMher’s A Very Merry CHRISTMAS MARKET is a handmade, vintage, and boutique style market presented by

Olde Farm Creek

at the Kendall County Fairgrounds, 10826 IL-71, Yorkville, IL. Visit an array of artisans featuring holiday inspired handmade treasures, vintage collections, and boutique style decor. Enjoy the beautiful atmosphere of our indoor and outdoor market while sipping on bloody marys, wine, or beer.

Plus food from local vendors.

Come for a great time of holiday shopping and fun with friends!

Hell’s BBQ

1019 Station Drive, Oswego 630-636-7019 www.hells-bbq.com Traditional foods during the holidays indeed have their place.

However when it comes to feeding a hungry crowd, this beloved barbecue joint, which earns rave online reviews, is definitely up to the task. Catering options include appetizers, smoked meat and sides. Among the selections are rib tips and chicken slathered in tangy sauce. Baked beans, macaroni and cheese, chili and coleslaw also feature. Pick-up is available from their restaurant.

Hell’s BBQ also offers local delivery.

Admission: $10 On Friday And $5 On Saturday. Children 12 And Under Are Free. No Strollers Or Wagons Allowed In The Building.

SM-CL2114723

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November - December Events Sunday

Monday Tuesday Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

November 1: Flags of Valor starts in Yorkville and runs through November 13

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November 8: Catch a performance of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory at the Paramount in Aurora

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November 11: We honor our military veterans on Veteran’s Day

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November 17-18: Yorkville Holiday Celebration Weekend

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November 23: Happy Thanksgiving!

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November 25: Get a jump on holiday shopping with Shop Small Saturday in Oswego

November 26: Venture out to Aurora for the Christkindlmarket and Lantern Parade

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December 1: Oswego Christmas Walk 4-8pm Plano Rockin’ Christmas Parade 5:30 - 7pm

December 2: Holiday Lane Craft Show in Sandwich Kris Kringle Mingle Market in Plano from 11am-2pm

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December 7: Happy Hanukkah

December 8 – 10: All aboard the Oswego Holiday Express

9

(ends December 15)

Christmas Open House

CHRISTMAS WALK OPPORTUNITIES AT THE CHAMBER OFFICE Promote yourself to the attendees of the walk at the office.

Trolley drop off is at Byline Bank and there will also be activities at the Little White School House.

SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES

Call for Sponsorship Opportunities, we have many left for your business!

ACTIVITIES AT THE OFFICE DURING THE WALK: SMORES PITS “TREE LOT” - SEE THE DECORATED TREES HOT BEVERAGES • GIVING TREES • WARMING STATION 50/50 RAFFLE (DRAWING DECEMBER 7TH) DROP OFF TOYS, FOOD AND STOCKINGS TO BE DONATED TO LOCAL FOOD PANTRIES

SM-CL2116673

Fri, December 1st • 4:30 - 8:30 PM 25 E Jackson St, Oswego Info & More Details: 630-554-3505

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Fri., Dec. 15 - Sat., Dec. 23 • 10-5 Daily Choose from a delicious selection of handmade Christmas barks & truffles, holiday party platters, chocolate charcuterie boards & more for holiday gift giving and entertaining!

Pre-order online for pickup or local delivery on Dec. 15 & 22. Nationwide shipping available.

218 Mitchell Dr., Plano

Lakewood Springs Commons

630.465.5755

www.chocolate-shoppe.com

Thanksgiving Open House 10-5 Daily November 20-22 Winter 2023

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Friendship INCLUDED. Friends enrich life. And Assisted Living & Memory Care at a Cedarhurst Senior Living community help make you or your loved one rich with friends.

AND NOW, THE FRIENDSHIP BEGINS. 630.884.5482 or CedarhurstYorkville.com Cedarhurst of Yorkville 4040 Cannonball Trail • Yorkville, IL 60560 DEPENDABLY KIND • HOW YOU LIKE YOUR FRIENDS

SCAN ME

YORVILLEHVAC.COM/PAYITFORWARD NOMINATIONS DUE BY 12/14/23 VISIT OUR WEBSITE FOR MORE INFO

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When

Plans Go “The best-laid plans of mice and men often go awry.”

– Robert Burns

O

y r w A

ne needs not have a daughter who is a published literary scholar to be familiar with poet Robert Burns’ reflection that, no matter how well one prepares, plans often go awry.

Important changes often have critical steps that must be sequenced properly for all to go smoothly. (Sale or change in ownership of a business, transitioning to retirement, changes in family construct, etc.) For example, we took possession of our historic building on Friday, Sept. 15.

We contracted to have the place deep cleaned from top to bottom the following Monday – the same day we had contracted to have the building rewired to accommodate the high-speed internet needs of the team and our guests.

I had told the tenant not to worry about cleaning on his way out because we had a crew contracted to come in.

The national company that was selected did not bring in the team they had promised and did only a fraction of the work contracted. My teammate and co-founder, Sharon, sought a remedy, but her conversation ended with a very professional, cool dismissal of that vendor. Our team rallied and outside of market hours, we dusted, scrubbed, mopped and much more as we had to stay on schedule.

These tasks needed to be done prior to painting and renovation work later that week which, in turn, had to be completed by Monday, Sept. 25, so custom furniture could be installed.

This phrase sprang to mind during the recent move of My Advisor & Planner to our new location. Despite a detailed timeline developed and refined many times well in advance of the move, our plan went awry.

Each vendor was selected out of multiple bids and locked in well ahead of time because we had a tight window due to our lease expiring. Finalists were selected, contracted and confirmed multiple times. What could possibly have gone wrong?

There were some additional challenges, such as the CAD drawings for the custom furniture being incorrect, necessitating some on-site carpentry and adjustments.

Also, the second story “peacock” window which had been there since 1888, had issues. Fortunately, our craftsman were able to successfully restore it to good health.

Although still a work in progress, here is what our “new” home looks like today:

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Best laid plans...

In early September, I got a call from the vendor selected to wire the house. “Tom, I’ve been thinking about this project, and I don’t think we are your best choice due to the historic status of the property and complexity of the job.” This was not the call I had expected or wanted.

Fortunately, he continued by recommending another firm.

We conferenced the owner of that firm in and he agreed to meet our timeline. Challenge handled.

On the other hand, the deep clean was a complete bust.

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y

HOW ABOUT YOUR PLANS?

Reflecting on all that has gone into transitioning to our new location made me think of parallels to situations we help our clients prepare for and navigate. Often the best-laid plans of a private business owner can be tested by surprises. For example: • A logistics company is doubling in size every 30 months, with that growth accelerating. The owner plans to sell in 10 years and retire young, but one of his key accounts has decided they want to own control of this aspect of their business and offers to buy him out now at a much lower price or they will take their business elsewhere. What now?

• A new partner joins an orthodontic practice. She signs the cross-purchase agreement as part of the whirlwind of documents the partnership has, and she is excited to have her first experience as an owner.

Unfortunately, months into her new firm one of the other partners dies unexpectedly, and she realizes that the cross-purchase agreement is unfunded. How does she meet her contractual financial obligation to buy out the deceased partner’s ownership?

• A manufacturer had negotiated the sale of the business that has been his family’s life’s work. On the evening before the funds are to be wired, the buyer balks and steps away from the deal. With the ink still wet on the sales agreement, the owner had committed to constructing a substantial retirement home in a snowbird state. With both the interest rate and real estate environment having changed quickly, now what?

Unexpected wrinkles in your life need not be nearly this dramatic to still cause you stress and pain. You not only need a financial plan, you need one that also has contingent scenarios and is periodically revisited with a trusted financial advisor. If you have not taken steps to do so, do not delay.

When things do go awry – and they will – you’ll be glad you had properly prepared.

P.S. A special shoutout to my teammates Sharon Piet and Michael Holevas for their dedication and perseverance through our move.

Client service never missed a beat despite many challenges behind the scenes.

P.P.S. A loving tribute to our Chief Pawsitivity Officer, Ivy (mapyourfuture.net/meet-ivy) Over the years, she greeted and set at ease many valued clients and provided loyal companionship at the office from early morning hours through late evenings. RIP, my faithful friend.

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. The information has been obtained from sources considered to be reliable, but we do not guarantee that the foregoing material is accurate or complete. Any opinions are those of Tom McCartney and not necessarily those of Raymond James. Expressions of opinion are as of this date and are subject to change without notice. Raymond James is not responsible for the content of any website or the collection or use of information regarding any website’s users and/or members.

Tom McCartney is the Founding Principal of My Advisor & Planner and a Wealth Manager, RJFS. Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services are offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. My Advisor & Planner is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services.

Tom and his team are located at 107 S. 2nd St., Geneva, IL 60134 and can be reached at info@mapyourfuture.net, at 630-457-4068, or you can visit them at www.mapyourfuture.net.

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MY ADVISOR & PLANNER helping assure lifestyle & legacy

Independent, confidential, private wealth management provided by industry veterans who focus on private business owners and executives, their families, and their key employees.

Our services include: • Investment Management • Life and Long-Term Care Insurance for Business and Estate Planning • Retirement Plans for Privately Owned Businesses

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630.457.4068

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info@mapyourfuture.net 107 S. 2nd Street Geneva, IL 60134 MapYourFuture.net

Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRNSIPC. Investment Advisory services offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. My Advisor and Planner is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services.

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