Mc dec2016

FAIRY TALE CHRISTMAS

at RavenStone Castle PAGE 8

HOLIDAY SPIRITS

DECEMBER 2016

Swanky spots for cocktails

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Editor's Note The first snowfall, cozying up by the fireplace with a good book, watching classic holiday films, decorating the Christmas tree, baking sugar cookies, wrapping presents and spending quality time with friends and family – there is a lot to love about this time of year.

What I enjoy most about the holiday season is its ability to generate an outpouring of love, kindness and generosity. It means setting aside differences. And it serves as a reminder of what truly matters in life.

This month’s holiday edition will help fill your already busy schedule with some seasonal entertainment and festive fun for the family.

private Christmas parties and holiday happy hours – you’ll have no trouble getting into the “spirits” of the season.

Savor tradition by attending the Lakeside Legacy Arts Park “Christmas at the Dole”; live out your own fairy tale by escaping to RavenStone Castle for a winter retreat; or take in the merriment of historic Woodstock’s Victorian Christmas celebration.

Whatever your plans may be, the magazine team wishes you and your family a beautiful holiday season filled with love, light and togetherness.

Happy holidays, and cheers to a new year!

“The Nutcracker” ballet is approaching its 125th anniversary, so we’re featuring the Tchaikovsky classic alongside other stellar stage performances, film screenings and Christmas concerts.

Kara Silva, Editor

In “Holiday Spirits,” we’ve scoured the county for some of the swankiest spots for cocktails – from date night and drinks with the girls to

Published by Shaw Media 7717 S. Route 31, Crystal Lake, IL 60014 Phone: 815-459-4040 Fax: 815-477-4960 www.McHenryCountyMagazine.com

GENERAL MANAGER Jim Ringness 815-526-4614 jringness@shawmedia.com DIRECTOR OF NICHE REVENUE Sherri Dauskurdas 630-427-6263 sdauskurdas@shawmedia.com EDITOR Kara Silva 630-427-6209 ksilva@shawmedia.com

on the

COVER

The Berkshire Ballet Theatre in Crystal Lake will present a re-imagined version of “The Nutcracker.”

Celebrate this timehonored Christmas story Dec. 17-18 at the Raue Center for the Arts (Page 12).

Photos provided.

4 | DECEMBER 2016 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

DESIGNER Carol Manderfield 630-427-6253 cmanderfield@shawmedia.com CORRESPONDENTS Melissa Riske, Kelsey O’Connor, Yvonne Benson, Wendy Foster, Sandra Manley, Stephanie N. Grimoldby, Chris Walker, Kevin Druley, Allison Horne PHOTOGRAPHERS Nancy Merkling, Heather Nelson, From Me 2 You Photography

McHenry County Magazine is available by subscription for $24 a year. If you would like each month’s edition mailed to your home, send payment information and address to McHenry County Magazine, 7717 S. Route 31, Crystal Lake, IL 60014 or via email at subscriptions@ shawmedia.com.

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INSIDE

HOLIDAYS

BUSINESS & CIVIC

8 WINTER WONDERLAND

31 RESURRECTING THE PAST

A RavenStone Castle kind of Christmas

Linda Stengele preserves history of McHenry County

12 SEASONAL ENTERTAINMENT

32 GARFIELD’S GROWS, JUST IN TIME FOR SEASON

‘Nutcracker’ among list of holidaythemed performances and films featured at local theaters

Crystal Lake’s long-standing liquor store now bigger, better than ever

14 FARM FRESH Find a Christmas tree that makes the cut

Financial planner discusses how to best maneuver your future

16 ‘CHRISTMAS AT THE DOLE’

38 NEIGHBORHOOD HEART AND SOLE

Lakeside Legacy Arts Park celebrates season with art exhibits, Santa visits, live music and a holiday shopping bazaar

18 A VICTORIAN HOLIDAY Experience the lively spirit of Woodstock, from shopping and dining to carolers and horse-drawn carriage rides

DINING & ENTERTAINING 22 PAINT THE TOWN RED At these swanky spots for cocktails

24 FRENCH CONNECTION Retro Bistro in Crystal Lake a culinary ‘tour de force’

24 FRENCH

37 PLAYING THE RETIREMENT BRAIN GAME

FAMILY IN FOCUS 28 POINTERS FOR PARENTS Friendships come in all dimensions

Heisler’s Bootery puts a fresh face on beloved family business

TRAVEL 40 CHRISTMAS IN CEDARBURG Wisconsin town features centuries-old limestone buildings fit with coffeehouses, enticing shops, art galleries and cozy pubs and restaurants.

OUT & ABOUT 42 BOOK NOOK The gift of a good read

44 ARTIST SHOWCASE Lake in the Hills artist Pat Brutchin shares her work, a bronze sculpture, entitled ‘Ballerina’

46 CALENDAR OF EVENTS See what’s happening in McHenry County this month!

CONNECTION Retro Bistro in Crystal Lake a culinary ‘tour de force’

6 | DECEMBER 2016 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

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WINTER WONDERLAND

A RAVENSTONE CASTLE KIND OF CHRISTMAS

By KELSEY O’CONNOR

Sometimes an escape from the ordinary is the best medicine.

RavenStone castle, a luxurious bed and breakfast, is perfect for those looking for a retreat from the busy holiday season.

Tucked away on a hillside in Harvard, the 16th century-style castle is available for holiday events and serves as a great spot for those looking to enjoy the holiday season in a majestic setting.

For an overnight stay, the bed and breakfast has four rooms. Each room is decorated according to a distinct theme: the Egyptian room, the King Arthur room, the Queen Elizabeth room and the Unicorn room. And guests will enjoy a Europeanstyle breakfast each morning.

During Christmas at the Castle, visitors are invited to the grounds for its annual Christmas Arts & Crafts Faire, which takes place from noon to 5 p.m. Friday, Dec. 9, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 10.

The event is one of the few times a year that RavenStone Castle is open to the public. The fair will feature artisan- and renaissance-style gifts, including Christmas tree skirts, jewelry, essential oils and tapestries. Guests can enjoy a cup of hot cider while browsing the unique gifts. Tours of the castle will be available throughout the day, too.

for the castle didn’t strike until 2001. Once construction began, there was so much public curiosity that the couple knew they had an opportunity.

“We had such an interest in it,” says Rose.

“People were coming to see it; people were always stopping by and everybody was so intrigued by it.”

The idea to build the castle evolved slowly after the couple’s numerous excursions to Europe. Much of Rose Michels’ tapestry business is based overseas, requiring frequent trips overseas for textiles shows.

During their trips abroad, the Michels explored the magnificent, centuries-old castles around England, Scotland and Belgium.

Jose Michels and his sons did much of the construction on the Harvard castle, while Rose Michels designed every room, arch and turret herself. RavenStone isn’t based off of a particular castle, but draws inspiration from many locations. One of the entrances, for instance, is a Originally, the castle was meant to be the home replication from a castle in the medieval town of of Jose and Rose Michels. The Michels purchased Bruges, Belgium.

Though the castle is European in style, elements 10 acres of Harvard land in 1981, but inspiration 8 | DECEMBER 2016 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

HOLIDAY

of the structure come from all over. The doors were handmade in India; the hardware came from England; and the massive amounts of stone were transported from Canada by railroad. Plenty of Rose Michels’ tapestries are on display, and she custom-designed walls to fit certain pieces, she says.

Rose’s daughter-in-law, Terry Michel, helped expand operations to include private events.

RavenStone now hosts princess-themed children’s parties, which include a tour of the castle, craft activities and cake and tea in the formal dining room. Space also can be reserved www.nwherald.com/magazine

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“When you pull up, it looks like a real castle,” says Terry Michel. “And when you come inside, it’s beautiful inside. There [are] tapestries, stained glass and beautiful light fixtures. People like it because you don’t have to come in and decorate [for events], because it’s beautiful the way it is.”

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“Don’t Get Left Out in the Cold” Avoid the winter chores and retreat from the frigid, snowy months to Hearthstone Village. Settle into a cozy one bedroom apartment, enjoy chef prepared meals by Chef Dimitri in our newly appointed dining room and use our free transportation for appointments and shopping.

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Seasonal entertainment

‘Nutcracker’ among list of holiday-themed stage performances, concerts and films featured at local theaters

By KEVIN DRULEY

W

hy can’t a ballet approaching its 125th anniversary undergo a slight facelift?

And why can’t young dancers master accelerated choreography and hints of comedy, to boot?

Because Crystal Lake native Courtney Kramer Petrocci ostensibly answers “Why not?” to both of these questions, audiences should anticipate a re-imagined version of “The Nutcracker” when the holiday staple – first staged in 1892 – descends on the Raue Center for the Arts, 26 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake, for shows Saturday, Dec. 17, and Sunday, Dec. 18.

“It’s just going to be a giant, new production where there’s never going to be a dead moment on stage for the audience’s eye,” says Petrocci, artistic director of Crystal Lake’s Summers Academy of Dance and Berkshire Ballet Company, which will give the performances.

“There’s always going to be something going on in the corner that [the audience] might not have seen before, and it’ll leave them going, ‘Oh, maybe I should come back; I feel like I missed something.’”

“I came in full-steam ahead, [saying] ‘This is what we’re doing; I want you all to learn all of it together,’” Petrocci says. “And the students are really rising to the occasion and meeting me at this really high level of performance quality.

As a 10-year Milwaukee Ballet company member, So, what the audience members are going to see – they’re not going to see a student-level who recently retired from professional dance, performance.”

Petrocci embraces the chance to shape the medium as an instructor. Her husband, Marc, a Performances will take place at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. fellow former Milwaukee performer, joins her on Dec. 17 and 3 p.m. Dec. 18. Tickets start at $28, staff. and can be purchased online at www.rauecenter. org or by calling 815-356-9212.

The couple will portray the Sugar Plum Fairy and Cavalier, respectively, but are far more enthused about inspiring the more than 120 performers – ages 5 to 19 – who are a part of the show. Taking a cue from Michael Pink, her artistic director in Milwaukee, Petrocci aspired to put equal emphasis on acting and dancing.

Although, Petrocci’s take on “The Nutcracker” shifts some character responsibilities from past incarnations; it predominantly works to use age-appropriate choreography to tell its story, which makes it relatable for frequent ballet goers and newcomers alike.

Other holiday-themed shows in McHenry County include:

‘A Christmas Carol’

WHERE: Woodstock Opera House 121 W. Van Buren St., Woodstock WHEN: 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 2; 2 and 8 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 3; and 2 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 4 INFO: www.woodstockoperahouse.com; 815-338-5300 After first transforming “Humbug!” into holiday cheer during Thanksgiving weekend, the Woodstock Musical Theatre Company concludes its production with four more shows. Tickets cost $21 for seniors and students and $24 for adults.

Northwest Indiana Symphony Orchestra presents

‘Holiday POPS Concert’

WHERE: Raue Center for the Arts 26 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake WHEN: 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 9 INFO: www.rauecenter.org; 815-356-9010 Seasoned music director and conductor Kirk Muspratt puts an orchestral spin on both contemporary and classic songs of the season.

Tickets start at $52.

Photo provided by Raue Center

‘The Nutcracker’

WHERE: Woodstock Opera House 121 W. Van Buren St., Woodstock WHEN: 2 and 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 10 and 17; 2 and 6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 11 and 18; and 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 16 INFO: www.woodstockoperahouse.com; 815-338-5300 Clara takes a mystical tour, as performers from the Judith Svalander Dance Theatre ballet company move to Tchaikovsky’s time-honored score. Tickets cost $18 for students and $25 for adults. All seats are $15 for a final dress rehearsal at 7 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 9.

‘Jingle All the Way’ film screening

WHERE: Woodstock Theatre 209 Main St., Woodstock WHEN: 10 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 10 INFO: www.classiccinemas.com; 815-338-8855 It’s the 20th anniversary of the tale that gave us Arnold Schwarzenegger and Sinbad and their quest for a coveted Turbo Man action figure. Phil Hartman, Rita Wilson and a before-he-was-youngAnakin-Skywalker Jake Lloyd also star.

Tickets are $1.

Voices in Harmony presents

‘Sing-Along Messiah’

WHERE: Raue Center for the Arts 26 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake WHEN: 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 11 INFO: www.rauecenter.org; 815-356-9010 A 25-piece orchestra, soloists and the supplemental McHenry County Chorus help Voices in Harmony go all-in on a performance of Handel’s Messiah. Tickets start at $15.

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www.TravanseLiving.com MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2016 | 13

Farm fresh

Find a ChristmasBytree that makes the cut WENDY FOSTER For more than 100 years, Christmas trees have heralded the beginning of a much beloved and highly celebrated season. Families around the country treasure the tradition of selecting and, often, even cutting down their own Christmas tree.

Here is a list of McHenry County-area farms to help you find the perfect Christmas tree for the holiday season:

ANTHONY’S TREE FARM 3200 RAYCRAFT ROAD | WOODSTOCK HOURS: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 5-6 and Dec. 12-13 Anthony’s Tree Farm in Woodstock offers pre-cut and cut-your-own trees. Dogs are welcome to the family-owned farm, but must be on a leash.

Saws and baling are provided. Credit cards are not accepted. For more information, visit www.

AnthonysTreeFarm.com.

MOEHLING CHRISTMAS TREE FARM 10904 BULL VALLEY ROAD | WOODSTOCK HOURS: 9 a.m. to sundown on weekends through Christmas More than 14,000 trees have been planted on the 15-acre parcel. Saws are provided for use. A craft show and hot beverages are available. For more information, visit www.

MoehlingChristmasTreeFarm.com or call 815355-1738.

ONEY’S TREE FARM 16608 Route 14 | WOODSTOCK HOURS: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. through Dec. 11 Known as the oldest and largest tree farm in Northern Illinois, Oney’s features 60 acres of Christmas trees, including harvest-your-own, pre-cut and trees with roots for planting. There

are nine different varieties and thousands of trees from which to choose. Weekends will include visits by Mrs. Claus, free horse-drawn wagon rides and pony rides. Try its famous hot cinnamon rolls and a cup of hot chocolate before shopping for ornaments and gifts. For more information, visit www.oneystreefarm.com/ christmas.php.

The cut-your-own-tree farm offers a more backwoods feel of an experience. In the peaceful outdoors, there are many types of trees, such as Colorado blue spruce, Douglas Fir, Norway Spruce, White Fir (Concolor Fir), White Pine and White Spruce. For more information, visit www.

BillsFriendlyEvergreenTreeFarm/weebly.com or call 847-525-9809.

PINE-APPLE FARM

RICHARDSON ADVENTURE FARM

309 THREE OAKS ROAD | CARY HOURS: 9 a.m. to dusk on weekends through Dec. 13 and 11 a.m. to dusk Dec. 19-20 (Special appointments available by phone or email) Cut –your-own and fresh-cut trees available.

Prices include use of saws, shaking, baling and loading. For more information, visit www.

Pine-AppleFarm.com, call 847-639-3248 or email pinetree309@yahoo.com.

PIONEER TREE FARM 4614 PIONEER ROAD | MCHENRY HOURS: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekends until Christmas day Trees are raised organically and pruned by hand, motivated by the owners’ love of nature.

Purchase of a tree includes free wagon rides, tree shaking and baling, and the use of hand saws. Hot refreshments and handcrafted holiday items are available. Pioneer Tree Farm donates 10 percent of tree sales to Environmental Defenders of McHenry County. For more information, visit www.PioneerTreeFarm.com or call 815-385-8512.

BILL’S EVERGREEN TREE FARM 3102 MILLER ROAD | MCHENRY HOURS: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekends through Dec. 25 Bill’s Evergreen Tree Farm has been familyowned and operated for more than 20 years.

9407 RICHARDSON ROAD | SPRING GROVE HOURS: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily through Dec. 23 Boasting one of the largest selections of trees in Illinois, Richardson Farms has more than 50,000 trees scattered across 75 acres. Free wagon rides out into the fields are offered on weekends.

Pre-cut trees also are available and individually priced. Free shaking and baling of trees. The heated barn has decorations for sale, as well as free hot chocolate, fresh donuts, fudge, kettle corn and more. For more information, visit www.

RichardsonFarm.com or call 815-675-9729.

BEN’S CHRISTMAS TREE FARM 7719 RYAN ROAD | HARVARD HOURS: 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekends and 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Fridays through Dec. 18 Since 1982, Ben’s farm has grown 100 percent hand-pruned trees. The farm offers nine varieties of firs, spruces and pines, from 6 to 15 feet tall.

Ben’s, which utilizes organic farming practices, provides saws, twine and free wagon rides into the fields and back. For more information, visit www.BensTreeFarm.com, email TreeFarm@ gmail.com or call 630-279-0216.

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HOLIDAY

MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2016 | 15

CELEBRATE ‘Christmas at the Dole’

By KEVIN DRULEY Lakeside Legacy Arts Park executive director Siobhan Cottone channels a charitable spirit when she gushes about the property’s annual “Christmas at the Dole” celebration.

Cottone seemingly saves equal fervor for each element of the festivity-rich weekend that takes place at 401 Country Club Road in Crystal Lake.

Artists, artisans, musicians and ice sculptors are but a few of the skilled participants scheduled to lend their talents to the festival Friday, Dec. 2, and Saturday, Dec. 3. Cottone promises enjoyment for all ages, as caroling, s’moremaking and a holiday shopping bazaar will highlight the attractions.

“It’s a tradition, and it’s very festive and very contagious,” Cottone says. “People from far and wide look forward to coming to it.”

“Christmas at the Dole” begins by offering its monthly, First Friday art show from 5 to 8 p.m. Dec. 2. The opening exhibits will feature seasonally-themed work. Sarah Risley’s Expressionist-influenced piece, “Disturbances in the Field,” will be on display in the Dole Gallery, while the Sage Gallery will feature a juried exhibit, “Watercolors of Winter,” showcasing paintings by various members of Lake Region Watercolor Guild.

The art show includes performances by the Summers Academy of Dance, McHenry County Youth Orchestra and Academy, and the Crystal Lake Central Madrigal Singers. McHenry County College culinary students will prepare light fare to be enjoyed during the event, and mayors Aaron Shepley (Crystal Lake) and Erin Smith (Lakewood) will light the Sage Gallery tree and front lawn outdoor tree, respectively.

A cash bar is available. Other events are free, but donations are encouraged.

The art show is just the start on Dec. 2.

However, before the focus shifts to the Listening Room, at 8 p.m., accomplished Chicago jazz singer Spider Saloff will perform songs from her “Cool Yule” album, which fuses holiday standards and a handful of rare pieces.

Familiar collaborator Tommy Muellner will join her on the piano.

“A lot of the songs are not performed the way you normally hear them; they have a little different twist on them,” Saloff says. “And, also, I love to tell stories about … what the songs meant to me – about what the holidays were like for me as a kid. Just finding little tales that are woven in between the songs.”

Photos provided

16 | DECEMBER 2016 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

HOLIDAY

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That folksy approach sounds about right for the Listening Room, which has an atmosphere Cottone lauds as being “so intimate.”

“You can kind of have conversations like you’re in your living room with the artist,” Cottone says.

Tickets cost $18 in advance and $23 at the door.

Online sales are available at www.lakesideartspark. org and end at noon Thursday, Dec. 1.

The weekend concludes with an array of indoor and outdoor activities from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 3.

Photos with Santa Claus, ice sculptures and games, a holiday shopping bazaar, holiday photo booth and s’mores stations are planned. Check www. lakesideartspark.org or call 815-455-8000 for more information.

“You can do a lot of your holiday shopping here,” Cottone says. “It’s a festival that allows adults

and children to enjoy the holiday spirit and [an] opportunity to purchase a holiday gift or experience a form of art.”

IF YOU GO

Also on the December docket: The Listening Room will host a performance from guitarist Roger Adler and the Blues Deluxe Band at 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 16. Tickets cost $18 in advance and $23 at the door. An “open jam” opportunity is planned. Online advance sales end at noon Thursday, Dec. 15.

“CHRISTMAS AT THE DOLE” Dec. 2 and 3 Dole Mansion at Lakeside Legacy Arts Park 401 Country Club Road Crystal Lake 815-455-8000 www.lakesideartspark.org

             

         

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  

HOLIDAY

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MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2016 | 17

Visiting Woodstock during the holidays is a little like stepping back in time. The historic city is charming year round, but it becomes truly magical during its annual “Victorian Christmas” celebration. Visitors can enjoy holiday events, extended shopping hours at local merchants and live entertainment throughout the winter season.

“You can get away from the everyday hustle and bustle of life and enjoy that family time and nostalgia,” says Danielle Gulli, executive director of the Woodstock Chamber of Commerce and Industry. “It’s a strong community and tight knit community. And there’s so many things that make it feel like Christmas.”

Start your visit in the downtown square, which is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The entire area will be illuminated with thousands of sparkling lights on the trees and buildings. The Square also will be home to Santa’s Hut, where children can visit with Santa from Dec. 9 through Dec. 23. The hut will be open from 5 to 7 p.m. on weekdays and 2 to 5 p.m. on weekends.

or take a free ride in a horse-drawn carriage.

Be sure to stop by the display of gingerbread houses in the lobby of the Old McHenry County Courthouse through mid-December.

The Woodstock Opera House is the center of many holiday happenings. It’s the location of the Christmas Tree Walk, an annual event that features more than 30 trees decorated by local organizations. The walk is open to the public during Opera House hours through Dec. 31. You also can catch special performances of holiday classics, including “A Christmas Carol,” “The Nutcracker,” “White Christmas” and more.

The holidays are a perfect time to shop at local businesses. Woodstock boasts an array of specialty boutiques and artisan shops. Read Between the Lynes carries a wide selection of all types of books in a cozy, friendly atmosphere.

Find unique gifts for every occasion at Green Box Boutique, an eco-sustainable and free trade retailer. The Backdrop is full of artsy and affordable finds, including jewelry and home décor.

Ladies Night Out will take place Dec. 1, and it is a great way to explore the community. Hundreds Visitors to downtown Woodstock can enjoy the sounds of strolling carolers and street musicians, of women gather for the annual event, which 18 | DECEMBER 2016 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

HOLIDAY

features special sales and raffles at shops around the Square.

“The local merchants really band together to make the holidays special,” says Gulli. “It’s a collaborative effort of all the local businesses in downtown Woodstock. They plan events that are going to benefit the customers and bring the community together.”

Stage Left Café is a good place to stop for a snack and drink after a visit to the opera house.

Or warm up with a coffee and some premium chocolate at the charming Ethereal Confections.

For sweeter options, stop by the family-owned Swiss Maid Bakery, which offers a variety of European style pastries and breads.

For dinner, D.C. Cobb’s Tavern & Eatery has some of the best burgers in the area. Public House of Woodstock, recognized as one of the best local pubs, is nestled in the Old Courthouse.

Vegetarians will love Expressly Leslie Vegetarian Specialties, which serves up Middle Easterninspired dishes in a homey atmosphere. u For more information, visit www.visitmchenrycounty.com.

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HOLIDAY

MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2016 | 19

RIVERBOTTOM ICE CREAM CO.

Riverbottom Ice Cream Co., which has a cozy feel and reclaimed look, is located in the heart of downtown Algonquin. At the shop, visitors will experience some of the freshest and finest homemade ice cream in the area. The hard-scooped ice creams are made in house.

The shop also serves quality, locally roasted coffees and has a full drink menu, which includes cappuccino, lattes, mochas, teas and hot chocolates. Coffees and ice cream can be combined to make a Riverbottom Coffee Float or an Affogato.

301 S. Main St. | Algonquin | 224-678-9438 www.riverbottomicecream.com

t ALGONQUIN MEXICAN RESTAURANT

Algonquin Mexican Restaurant is a family-owned restaurant located right on Main Street. With delicious, authentic Mexican fare, the restaurant is homey, friendly and has affordable prices. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served, and the restaurant offers dine-in or carryout. The hand-made Huaraches, with chicken, steak or pork are a must-try. Ask about the restaurant’s catering.

648 S. Main St. | Algonquin | 847-458-1390 Open 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday-Saturday; and 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday

SACCO’S OLD WORLD PIZZA

There is nothing quite like a made-from-scratch hot pizza that uses fresh ingredients. Keep the holidays stress free and simple by calling new Old World Pizza owner Dan Sacco for delivery or carryout. Located in downtown Algonquin, the restaurant offers everything Italian, from spaghetti and fettuccine to Italian beef, which is made fresh daily.

216 S. Main St. | Algonquin | 847-658-4777 Open 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday-Thursday; 11 a.m. to midnight Friday and Saturday; and 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday

Stroll through Algonquin

BELLA VITA SALON AND DAY SPA FOR MEN AND WOMEN

Visitors will take a step back in time when visiting Bella Vita Salon and Day Spa for Men and Women.

Located in an elegant, historic home in downtown Algonquin, Bella Vita is a family-owned and operated establishment and one of the only fullservice hair salon and day spas in Algonquin. Bella Vita offers hair, facial, body, waxing, massage and nail services. The salon and spa also is celebrating 14 years at its Algonquin location. At Bella Vita, the staff is committed to the ultimate in client care.

321 S. Main St. | Algonquin | 847-854-8190 www.bellavitasalonanddayspa.com

t DOERNER JEWELERS

Doerner Jewelers has high-quality standards and uncompromising customer service, from its professional and friendly salespeople to its graduate gemologists and master jewelers. Doerner Jewelers does jewelry and watch repairs, as well as jewelry appraisals. The jewelers can help customers with jewelry restoration and custom jewelry design, including heirloom pieces that were handed down from generations. Other services include helping you find the perfect diamond engagement ring or a special gift for a special occasion.

119 S. Main St. | Algonquin 847-458-9779 | www.doernerjewelers.com (Doerner Jewelers has three locations: Algonquin, Geneva and Aurora)

COLLECTIVE PIECE

Imagine or re-imagine unique furnishings and accent pieces designed to fit your style. Collective Piece does custom repurposing, and it re-finishes old heirlooms with a modern flair.

The shop also can build something brand new with an heirloom feel. The staff members are experts at blending the old with the new. If Collective Piece doesn’t have something you desire, we can design one for you.

328 S. Main St. | Algonquin | 815-245-1802 Open 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday-Sunday

t CATARA SKIN REJUVENATION SPA Revitalize your skin this holiday season. CaTara offers Botox and variety of dermal fillers, such as Juvederm, Bellafill and Voluma. CaTara’s injectionists are some of the most talented and knowledgeable in the business. The spa also offers micro needling, which improves skin tone and texture while also diminishes fine lines, wrinkles and acne scars.

The spa’s multi-lingual staff is fluent in English, Lithuanian, Polish and Russian languages. For a free consultation, or to find out about the spa’s holiday glow facial specials, call 847-658-1300.

308 S. Main St. | Algonquin CataraSpa@gmail.com | www.CataraSpa.com

N W O T E H TT

D E R

PAIN

at these swa spots for coc nky ktails

By YVONNE B

ENSON

I

t’s always fun getting dressed up to enjoy precious moments with friends, family or a significant other. And in McHenry County, there is no shortage of posh places to celebrate the holiday season, whether it’s happy hour, date night or an evening out with the girls. From cutesy cafes to mixology hot spots, here are some of the finest establishments for cocktails in the county:

1776 RESTAURANT 397 W. Virginia St., Crystal Lake 815-356-1776; www.1776restaurant.com

ETHEREAL CONFECTIONS 113 S. Benton St., Woodstock 815-687-0320; www.etherealconfections.com

MARTINI’S ON MAIN 8 S. Main St., Algonquin 847-658-5600; www.martinisonmain.com

“We make our own bitters and our own cocktail menu,” says Owner Andy Andresky. “We don’t use flavored vodkas at all. Some of our signature [drinks] would be Ginger Dreamcicle, which is high in Absolute Vodka, vanilla syrup, orange juice and ginger bitters – real good and something different.”

This charming café specializes in coffee and tea drinks, but it also has a surprising number of cocktails, beer and wine. Its signature cocktail is the Smoking Gun, which is made with Ch bourbon, house-infused cherry brandy and salted cherries. It also has a cocktail called the Witching Hour, which is made with drinking chocolate, bourbon, cherry liqueur and espresso.

Utilizing the motto “Where old friends meet,” Martini’s on Main is all about mood. For a taste of the tropics in the middle of winter, sample its Passion Mai Tai.

He also uses some really unique ingredients and infusion techniques to make the bitters. The ginger bitters take about four months to make.

The restaurant also has a cocktail called the Heart’s Desire and a number of enticing martinis.

Of the bar menu, Andresky says, “We have an underground bar menu that’s not advertised, but people learn about it.” Some items featured on the menu include tuna or steak tartar, popcorn shrimp, flautas and fish tacos.

BIMBO’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT 1318 Riverside Drive., McHenry 815-385-1444; www.bimbositalian.com Bimbo’s, a casual spot with views of the Fox River, has a full bar with a wine and martini menu. Of the menu, executive chef Dominick Armon, recommends trying, “The appetizers sautéed shrimp and the bruschetta to start.”

BISTRO WASABI 4590 W. Algonquin Road, Lake in the Hills 847-515-2700; www.thebistrowasabi.com Bistro Wasabi is chic, with clean lines and simple details. The restaurant has a full bar and delicious maki rolls for sharing in between cocktails.

CUCINA BELLA 220 S. Main St., Algonquin 847-458-2504; www.cucinabellaalgonquin.com Cucina Bella is a rustic restaurant with exposed brick walls and duct work, dark wood furniture and white table cloths. The authentic Italian trattoria has a full bar, a wine list and martinis.

Try the grilled calamari. www.nwherald.com/magazine

For a bit of food, the café has a number of typical bites and lots of homemade chocolate delights.

Try the bacon-wrapped dates or the sriracha deviled eggs.

JAMESON’S CHARHOUSE 5016 Northwest Hwy., Crystal Lake 815-459-4800; www.jamesons-charhouse.com/ locations/crystal-lake/ Jameson’s Charhouse, a casual eatery, has wine, martinis and a full bar. For small bites, try the calamari or crab cakes.

JASTERS RAW BAR AND BISTRO 414 W. Virginia St., Crystal Lake 815-526-3124; www.jastersbar.com This dimly lit, sultry cocktail bar has quite a few lovely libations, including the Unexamined Life, which is made with Tito’s vodka, lemon juice, dry vermouth, peach puree and strawberries.

Another is the Glacier Point, which is made with Hendrick’s Gin, sage liqueur, rose water, lime juice, cucumber and basil. Or maybe ask for the Godfather, which is well-loved, but not on the menu.

MONTARRA GRILL 1491 S. Randall Rd., Algonquin 847-458-0505; www.montarra.com Serving boutique martinis, Montarra Grill welcomes guests with a blue Chihuly-inspired chandelier and a soothing water wall. The restaurant has a great wine list, but also allows vino-loving customer to bring in two bottles (per table) “from your own cellar” for a $20 corkage fee. Try the small plate menu. Many rave about the French Onion Soup.

RETRO BISTRO 83 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake 815-893-4465; www.retrobistro.com Serving French and Tuscan cuisine, Retro Bistro serves champagne, beer, wine and cocktails, which include the classic ice cold French Grey Goose martini with Roquefort-stuffed olives and a Parisian peach sour. On Thursdays, the restaurant has special martinis; Wednesdays it has half price bottles of wine.

VILLAGE VINTNER WINERY AND BREWERY 2380 Esplanade Drive, Algonquin 847-658-4900; www.thevillagevintner.com

Brick columns, exposed duct work and a bar for wine and beer tastings, Village Vintner also The entire menu is comprised of small bites, comes equipped with pizza oven. It doesn’t serve such as charcuterie plates, salads and flatbreads. cocktails, but it does serve handcrafted wine and house brew. If you lean toward fruity drinks, it KYOTO JAPANESE STEAK HOUSE & has sections for fruit and sweet wines, dessert SUSHI BAR wines and sparkling. Try the Western Mac and 5690 Northwest Hwy., Crystal Lake Cheese or the Mozzarella Roll.

815-477-8300; www.kyotosteakandsushi.com This Japanese hibachi restaurant specializes in martinis and has a full bar. For small bites, enjoy some Maki rolls or tempura.

DINING & ENTERTAINING

MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2016 | 23

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DINING & ENTERTAINING

French connection Retro Bistro a culinary ‘tour de force’

By CHRIS WALKER | Photos by HEATHER NELSON After a quarter-century of success at its location in Mt. Prospect, the timing was just right for owner Chris Barth to open a second location further west.

The new restaurant, 83 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake, opened in June,

but it has already made its presence known. Combining charming décor and sophisticated cuisine, which includes many French classics, such as flamed steak au poiver and French herb-roasted poulet, as well as more contemporary dishes, such as wasabi-crusted Hawaiian ahi tuna and pancetta pasta with French Boursin cheese, linguini, zingy provencal marguez sausage and tomato provencal sauce.

“We had been open for only a short period of time – maybe two weeks – and a customer asked, ‘How many years have you been here?’ and he was surprised to learn we were new,” Barth says. “We’re very fortunate because of the food we serve and the service we provide, and that we’ve been doing it for more than 25 years – it’s just that we’re now in a new location.”

McHenry County has excellent restaurants, and Barth says that he simply wants Retro Bistro to be considered one of them.

“We love to be busy but, more than anything, we just want to be one of the restaurants on your list,” he says. “You can go to all the restaurants you want,

-Continued on page 26 MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2016 | 25

Santa House Visits

November 25th - December 23rd Children whisper their wishes during their visit with Santa in the comfort of his house at Brink Street Market.

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but we want to be one of them. So far, the feedback has been good so we’re very excited.”

A varied menu has certainly proven to be enticing. Other items include the potato-crusted Chilean tilapia, confit leg of duck and grilled duck sausage, and Nicolette’s seafood pasta – made with with calamari, scallops, shrimp and mussels.

Retro Bistro also has a variety of specials, including roasted half chicken with garlic mashed potatoes on Tuesdays; half-price wines on Wednesdays; and special martinis and pint beer specials on Thursdays.

Barth says that Retro Bistro would make a wonderful alternative for Christmas Eve or New Year’s Eve dinner.

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“The biggest meal for some is Christmas Day, but who wants to cook two days in a row?” Barth says. “We’re excited because we’ll be celebrating our 27th New Year’s in Mt. Prospect, but this will be our first in Crystal Lake, which is great. So many people come down from all over to enjoy the area, so we’re excited.”

Retro Bistro is open for lunch from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Tuesday through Friday; and dinner service is from 5:30 to 10 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday and 4:30 to 8 p.m. Sunday. For more information, call 815-893-4465 or visit www.retrobistro.com. www.nwherald.com/magazine

POINTERS FOR PARENTS

Friendships come in all dimensions

picture-perfect from the outside looking in,” says differences can make playing together more fun.

Hurley.

• Adopt optimism. A person different from your Nothing tells us more about this than characters child doesn’t have to be viewed as a stranger. If in movies. he or she is friendly and open, everything else should fall into place.

Walt Disney Studios and Pixar have many

improbable couplings in their tales. In “Finding Dory,” the mischievous Septopus Hank What is so fascinating about unlikely friendships? reluctantly befriends scatterbrained Dory, yet they overcome their struggles and help each Is it that opposites attract? Does it point other grow in wonderful ways. In “Ratatouille,” to hidden mutual respect? Unlikely, animal a human befriends a rat. Rats are unwelcome in friendships have long held a particular fascination and are documented with countless all places, especially the kitchen. But Remy and Linguini find that love and compatibility can be funny and adorable videos: a cat adopting baby found anywhere. ducks, a Labrador and an elephant, a baby lamb and a pig.

“As these movies so creatively suggest, helping children open up to aligning with someone Child and adolescent psychotherapist Katie different can result in a whole new way of Hurley, a parenting expert and author of “The looking at things,” says Hurley.

Happy Kid Handbook: How to Raise Joyful Children in a Stressful World,” says that the Here are some ways parents can encourage wonderful thing about relationships between children to connect with a world outside the children is “friendship form just about immediate family: everywhere.”

• Be open-minded. Find ways to help your child “So, it’s important to allow kids the space to identify the differences between themselves form new relationships, even if they don’t appear and prospective friends and look for ways those

By NAPSI

• Make it about others. Help your child figure out how to show interest in someone else.

Simple starter questions, such as “what are your favorite games?” can prompt a lively discussion.

• Make them laugh. Laughter makes conversation fun and joyful. Encourage your children to be silly, to share their sense of humor with others and to not take anything too seriously.

• Initiate hang-out time. Help your child be brave enough to make the first move and invite a new friend to spend time together. Whatever the activity, the important thing is bonding.

• Discover mutual passions. If your son or daughter sees a new friend light up when talking about something, encourage your child to ask more questions about the subject. You’ll be surprised how helpful that can be in fostering a meaningful connection.

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FAMILY in FOCUS

MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2016 | 29

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BUSINESS & CIVIC

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RESURRECTING THE PAST Linda Stengele preserves history of McHenry County

By MELISSA RUBALCABA RISKE | Photo by FROM ME 2 YOU PHOTOGRAPHY

T

here’s no doubt that Linda Stengele has a passion for history, but the countless hours spent documenting and preserving the county’s historical records are much more than a hobby. The records, names and dates are all a part of the county’s collective story.

“We’re very fortunate in McHenry County to have the records we have,” says Stengele, a Fox River Grove resident. “Most don’t have these records.”

The spry octogenarian shows no signs of slowing down, as she continues to lead efforts to transcribe and document records, making them accessible for research and ultimately preserving data for future generations.

“What she’s provided is an absolute goldmine for us here at the historical society and for the general public,” says Mary Ott, facility manager of the Colonel Palmer House in Crystal Lake, which also serves as the office for the Crystal Lake Historical Society.

Ott says Stengele embodies volunteerism and civic duty, recounting the ways she literally digs up historical data. Stengele is a dowser, and uses angle rods – “L”-shaped wires traditionally used for field dowsing – to detect unmarked graves across the county. At times, Stengele rallied to local governing bodies to improve the care and preservation of grave sites. She led efforts to help restore Chunn’s Burial Ground/ Oak Glen Cemetery in Fox River Grove, which included the grave of Union Army veteran John G. Kelley.

“Now it’s in really nice shape,” Stengele says.

“I’m proud.”

Stengele says that it’s fun stomping around fields and researching the history of the land and people.

As a career, Stengele worked for several years as a real estate agent, even earning the achievement of becoming an agent/broker in the Million Dollar Club. Before working in real estate, she was a volunteer and paid staff member at libraries.

She is a founding member of the McHenry County Genealogical Society and can trace her family roots through 15 generations in this country and back to Charlemagne. She’s also a member of the Daughters of the American Revolution, Eli Skinner Chapter.

When the McHenry County Recorder’s Office faced the challenge of preserving historical property records, Stengele led a team of volunteers who transcribed records, often sifting through hand-written pages.

“They were having trouble reading the land records and the old names,” Stengele says.

“That was interesting to do.”

In recent years, she spearheaded the project of indexing obituaries and creating a research database accessible on the Crystal Lake Historical Society website.

Each week there are inquiries, Ott says, as people research their family histories. Obituaries from the past provide an insight into those who lived and died in the county.

Sifting through property records, marriage licenses and obituaries means that Stengele and her team of volunteers have come to know the names of those who settled and developed McHenry County.

“After a while you feel like you get to know them,” she says.

She’s also developed friendships while working with fellow volunteers.

“I’ve meet a lot of wonderful people,” she says.

Stengele continues to help with the Local History Section at the Fox River Grove Library, and she’s considered a local historian.

“It’s such a pleasure to leave this legacy and to have made so much information available,” Stengele says. “It makes me feel so good.”

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MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2016 | 31

Garfield’s grows, just in time for the season

Crystal Lake’s long-standing liquor store now bigger, better than ever

By STEPHANIE N. GRIMOLDBY | Photos by NANCY MERKLING The first time Ryan Howell walked into Garfield’s Beverage Warehouse, he didn’t expect to see a bar in the corner of the store.

It was a pleasant surprise for the 30-year-old, who has tried more than 1,200 different beers in the last two years, and who bellied up to try a few more.

The Nashota, Wis. resident also was surprised to find several hard-to-find craft beers on the shelves of the Crystal Lake store, including selections from Pipeworks Brewing Company in Chicago, which only selfdistributes.

time location at 305 W. Virginia St. to its current location, the former Aldi supermarket, just across the street at 320 W. Virginia St., and the transition has brought new life to the company.

The extra space in the 15,000-square-foot building has allowed the liquor store to bring in more wine, craft beer, bourbon, scotch – basically, more everything ¬– from a $6 bottle of sake to a $219 bottle of premium Zafra rum, Garfield says.

A new, extra large, walk-in beer cave has expanded the store’s selection of cold beverages, allowing you to grab a cold one no matter what that “one” might be.

are at hand, from corkscrews to flasks, decanters to cocktail mixers, Bordeaux glasses to Burgundy glasses.

Plus, there are great holiday gift ideas, including lavish gift sets featuring select craft beers, Bailey’s Original Irish Cream, RumChata and more.

“It’s a nicer package than just giving someone a bottle,” Garfield says.

Garfield is particularly proud of the more elaborate craft beer section the store now offers, which quadrupled in size with the move.

Besides housing sub-sections for sour beers, barrel-aged beers and craft ciders, the craft beer area Additional square footage also also includes a “local” section, has helped Garfield’s become with options from Emmett’s more of a one-stop-shop for Brewing Company (of Palatine); patrons.

Great Lakes Brewing Company, There’s a new, large selection of Whiner Beer Company, Around “The taps are always rotating,” he hot sauces and barbecue sauces, the Bend Beer Company and says. “Some of the selection they because when you’re cooking and Moody Tongue Brewing Company have tends to draw me in - it’s a making mixed drinks, you need (all of Chicago); Tyranea Brewing little more rare.” those items on hand, Garfield Company (of Lake Mills, Wis.); says. and many more.

Garfield’s always had a good selection of beer, wine and spirits There are shelves of bitters, The expanded selection is an - plus knowledgeable staff which, syrups and rimmers, so you asset that Rick Holtdorf of Crystal has kept patrons loyal since 1975, can make any kind of drink you Lake was excited to share with says owner Bruce Garfield. choose. his son, Justen, who lives in North Carolina.

However in March of this year, Any additional items you may As a “big craft beer guy,” Howell plans to continue to frequent Garfield’s whenever he’s in town on business, noting he appreciates the low-key atmosphere and impressive array of beer.

Garfield’s moved from its long-

need to create a crafty cocktail

-Continued on page34

Garfield’s Beverage Warehouse

320 W. Virginia St. Crystal Lake 815-459-4050 Garfieldsbeverage.com HOURS: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Monday through Friday; 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday ¡ NEXT MONTHLY TASTINGS To try a new selection of complimentary wine or beer with knowledgeable staff on hand, visit Garfield’s Beverage Depot for a monthly tasting.

No registration required. Must be 21.

-Continued from page 33

December Wine Tasting: 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3

“I couldn’t wait to bring him in here,” says Holtdorf, “It’s your local place to hang out and taste stuff,” who has been a long-time patron. “He loves all that says Lenhard. “You don’t want to buy a $20 bottle of wine and take it home and not like it later.” craft beer stuff.”

December Beer Tasting: 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 17

A few months ago, father and son sat at Garfield’s trendy, 20-foot bar for a relaxing evening together, an experience that wouldn’t have been possible in the old store, Garfield notes.

Today, you can take your time to shop, sample a few beverages at the bar and find exactly what you need for your next party or evening in, he says.

Scot Stadalsky, officially the store manager, unofficially “the Wine Guy,” says at any given time, 60 to 100 people will be in the store for a tasting, adding that the larger space is much more accommodating for the popular events.

The store’s new beer tastings have been a hit, as well, following a similar format to the wine That’s the best part of gaining real estate - creating tastings, but with craft beer.

Trying new beverages is the norm at his store, ease of shopping for loyal patrons.

Garfield says.

“We accomplished what I wanted to accomplish: it’s so much easier to shop, it’s easier for parking it’s such a better experience,” Garfield says.

Same old favorites Though the building is new, Garfield’s hasn’t left behind its old traditions, including its monthly tastings.

The complimentary four-hour wine tastings - which typically include half a dozen stations with various wine vendors providing samples, plus a small array of appetizers - have gone on for years at Garfield’s, becoming a favorite of locals like Crystal Lake resident Cheryl Lenhard.

She and a friend stopped by one of the last wine tastings at Garfield’s and said they felt like “two girls in a candy store.”

Every year, his team travels to Kentucky to handpick a barrel of bourbon - this year, it was Old Forester - to bring back to Crystal Lake for customers to sample at the bar.

“It’s fun; it’s something that not everybody does,” Garfield says. “It’s something we tasted, therefore [we know] we like it.”

Lenhard, a patron of the old building, said the “new” Garfield’s has the same nice staff as always, but the store is bigger, better and more organized.

It’s now one of her favorite places to shop.

“It’s just so much cooler,” says Lenhard. “This is the way it should be.”

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OH-NO-SIS: Realizing you should have started planning for retirement years ago.

The federal government and employers understand human behavior can be manipulated to boost savings. As such, there are tax-advantaged savings accounts, 401K default participation and annual automated contribution increases to encourage savings. And, we need to do more. The 2016 Employee Benefit Research Institute Retirement Confidence Survey found just 21 percent of workers were “very confident” they would have enough money to live comfortably through retirement.

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EMPLOYER RETIREMENT PLANS: All contributions made through employer by the end of the fiscal year.

401K PLANS: Qualified employer-established plan which eligible employees may make salary deferral (salary reduction) contributions on a post-tax and/or pretax basis.

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ROTH IRA: Roth IRA contributions are taxed upfront; however the contributions and earnings are tax-free at the time of withdrawal. Eligibility for Roth IRA contributions are phased out based on your Modified Adjusted Gross Income SPOUSAL IRA: Married couples can take advantage of the spousal IRA. The married couple must have enough earned income to cover the working spouse’s own IRA contribution and the spousal IRA contribution. The couple must also file a joint tax return.

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Securities offered through Securities America, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services offered through Securities America Advisors, Inc. DorionGray is not affiliated with Securities America companies. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security.

MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2016 | 37

Neighborhood heart and sole HEISLER’S BOOTERY PUTS A FRESH FACE ON BELOVED FAMILY BUSINESS

By ALLISON HORNE | Photos by HEATHER NELSON As Jim Heisler would tell it, the whole concept of Heisler’s Bootery came to fruition when the Chicago Cubs baseball team was up to bat in the 1908 World Series. It’s fitting that 108 years and one more Cubs World Series win later, the shop – which recently underwent a restoration – is still thriving in the heart of McHenry County.

Heisler’s Bootery, 50 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake, has been a staple in the community since John Heisler, Sr., a harness maker and shoe repairman, opened its doors in 1908. Heisler’s Bootery moved to its current location, in the Teckler Building, in the 1960s.

Through the years, Heisler Sr. grew the business, and its reputation. His son, Leonard, succeeded him as the owner. After being around the shop with his siblings for his entire life, the thirdgeneration owner, Jim Heisler, took over in 1999 – before his father’s death in 2000.

“Everyone has been a part of the business at one time or another,” Jim Heisler says. “That’s just how it was.”

become a teacher, which he did for more than 15 years, he always found himself back at the shop during the summer and holidays.

of the looks on the customers’ faces.”

looking slightly different lately, as Jim Heisler has put a significant amount of effort and time into restoring both the building’s façade and the shop’s interior.

In addition to the cornerstone location, Jim Heisler also has two Red Wing shoe locations, the first of which opened 10 years ago at 1275 Randall Road in Crystal Lake, and the second, which is located at 2210 Route 120 in McHenry, is going on its second year. The aforementioned shops focus solely on Red Wing shoes, whereas Heisler’s Bootery has an array of shoes in addition to Red Wing products.

Part of the renovation also included a logo redesign, new outdoor signage and a wrapping counter. The wrapping counter is made from a “I always helped out in the shoe store, and … somewhere along the line, I ended up not being a slab of oak that Jim Heisler has been saving for years to find the right carpenter to re-purpose, school teacher,” Jim Heisler says. he says. And, since we’re living in a social media He currently runs the Bootery with his son, era, the shop finally joined Facebook.

Jason, as his partner. The storefront may be

“It’s quite exciting,” Jim Heisler says. “We repaired a lot of the old terra cotta and got it back looking like it did in 1910 when the building was built.”

Jim Heisler says he even got down to the original maple flooring inside the store, which really opens up the space. He also cleaned the plaster off of the original brick walls in the fitting area, paying homage to the building’s history.

“We’re really turning the corner here,” Heisler Although Jim Heisler originally had other plans to says. “It’s nice, fresh, new. You should see some

Red Wing specializes in safety shoes, industrial footwear needs and all other work shoes, such as boots for firemen and policemen. The shoe shop owner notes that his family has been working with Red Wing shoes as long as he can remember, but the furthest he can trace their relationship back is the early 1950s.

“It keeps you busy,” Jim Heisler says. “They’re quite diverse and well-made. [Red Wing] is the premier shoe maker in our country as far as I’m concerned.”

He has his hands full with all three stores, but also finds time to serve on the McHenry County Board, representing District 2 – the community he has lived in his entire life. He’s also a member of the Crystal Lake Chamber of Commerce.

“We’re part of the town, part of the county, part of the community,” he says. “We’re

38 | DECEMBER 2016 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

FASHION & BEAUTY

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Winner of the

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“We’re part of the town, part of the county, part of the community. We’re the oldest Chamber of Commerce members here in Crystal Lake.”

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the oldest Chamber of Commerce members here in Crystal Lake.”

He notes that his grandfather was a member of two different chamber-esque organizations that preceded the Chamber of Commerce, which started in 1940.

“They were all business organizations with the same mission,” Heisler says. “They were all about community, and here we are living in the same town. Whatever happens to our neighbors and our customers happens to us.”

Although the store is currently open, Jim Heisler is planning on hosting a grand reopening at some point this winter.

Heisler’s Bootery may have a new look to it, but some things, like Jim’s grandfather’s old leftover tools from his horse harness business, will always be around as a nod to the shop’s storied past.

“It’s exciting when you finally get something done you’ve been dreaming of for years,” he says. “We’ve all turned the corner, including me. It’s a nice, bright, positive feeling.”

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MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2016 | 39

Christmas inCedarburg

Wisconsin town features centuries-old limestone buildings fit with coffeehouses, enticing shops, art galleries and cozy pubs and restaurants.

By KELSEY O’CONNOR

I

f you’re looking for a picturesque holiday trip, look no further than Cedarburg. The historic Wisconsin town, about 100 miles from the McHenry County area, is the perfect place for a winter weekend getaway.

The area, named one of the country’s prettiest towns by Forbes magazine, boasts charming shops and boutiques, a beautifully preserved downtown and holiday events fit for the entire family.

“It just is a charming place to visit. And you couldn’t plan to visit Cedarburg at a better time than the holidays,” says Renira Pachuta of the Cedarburg Visitor Center. “It’s beautiful any time of year, but during Christmas it becomes almost magical.”

WHAT TO DO Cedarburg hosts plenty of festive events throughout the holiday season.

Here’s a look at what’s to come: • Holiday Film Festival Catch a classic Christmas movie at the Rivoli Theatre. The historic art deco cinema holds an annual Holiday Film Festival from Dec. 9-23.

• Holiday Art Fair Chat with artists and browse for unique gifts at the Holiday Art Fair put on by the Cedarburg Artists Guild.

Artists will showcase jewelry, fiber art, weaving, drawings and ceramics from Dec. 2-4 at the Community Center.

• Santa’s Dash Away 5K Participate in the 3rd annual Santa’s Dash Away 5K run/walk. The race will follow the Interurban Trail and takes place Dec. 10.

• Paradise Ranch Take a horse-drawn sleigh ride at Paradise Ranch. Afterwards, sip hot apple cider in the historic stone barn and see a replica of an 1800s log cabin.

Sleigh rides are available on weekends; Santa will visit through Dec. 22.

• Stumpf’s Tree Farm Cut down your own Christmas tree at Stumpf’s Tree Farm. Choose from majestic pines and spruces, along with decorative wreaths boughs through Dec. 23.

Visitors should also set aside time to explore the area’s rich history.

Cedarburg has two neighborhoods listed on the National Register of Historic Places, which include more than 200 historically significant buildings.

The downtown area is a good place to start your historic tour. Admire the architecture along Washington Avenue, which is lined with centuriesold limestone and brick buildings.

Many are still open to the public as shops and museums. Stop in the General Store Museum to view the Midwest’s largest collection of antique advertising and packaging.

• Santa’s Workshop Visit Santa’s Workshop, a magical gingerbread house on Washington Avenue. Kids can meet Santa and Mrs. Claus on various days through Dec. 20.

Photos provided 40 | DECEMBER 2016 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

TRAVEL

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WHERE TO STAY

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WHERE TO SHOP Find something for everyone on your Christmas lists at shops in Cedarburg’s treelined downtown. The area is full of thriving local businesses, including old-fashioned confectionaries, a turn-of-the-century jewelry shop, a store that specializes in antique light fixtures and many more.

“The merchants really go all out for the holidays,” says Pachuta. “There’s thousands of twinkling lights; their windows are always beautiful; and the streets are lined with luminaries.”

Visitors can get in the holiday spirit at Cedar Creek Settlement. The Settlement features 25 stores, including gift and specialty shops, galleries, artists’ studios and antique shops.

There are also three restaurants, and the Cedar Creek winery is nestled in a restored 1864 woolen mill. The area will be festively decorated for the season with wreaths, garlands and thousands of lights.

Fridays are the perfect time to visit the Settlement. Festive Friday Eves, which run each Friday through Dec. 16, offer a variety of family-

www.nwherald.com/magazine

friendly free events. The night’s festivities begin at 5 p.m. and end around 9 p.m. Each week will feature music, food and carriage rides, as well as unique themes, which are as follows: • Dec. 2: “The Settlement Christmas Showcase” with a display of artisan goods, live music with Joey LaVie and wine and cheese at the winery.

• Dec. 9: “Santa’s Workshop” will feature a visit from Santa Claus in his winter wonderland.

There also will be live music by David HB Drake, free ornament and cookie decorating for kids, and complimentary wine tastings, cider and cookies.

• Dec. 16: “A Taste of Christmas” is a night for adults to shop and socialize in a festive atmosphere. There will be complimentary snacks and wine tastings, with music by pianist/ singer Kathy Fry, the Sweet Adeline quartet, Swizzle Chix and Cedarburg High School carolers. u For more information or help planning your visit to Cedarburg, contact the Cedarburg Visitor Center at 262-377-5856.

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815-206-2222 FitnessForLifeWoodstock.com MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2016 | 41

Book Nook

THE GIFT OF A GOOD READ

By SANDRA MANLEY-EICHLER

Who am I kidding? Holiday book shopping is just as much about shopping for myself as it is for others.

That being said, giving someone a book that he or she will treasure – for example, one that is handselected based on his or her interests – is exactly the kind of gift that I love to give.

Here is a short sampling of some new titles for that special someone in your life. (And, while you’re at it, why not get yourself a little something, too?) ¢ ‘BUTTER AND SCOTCH: RECIPES FROM BROOKLYN’S FAVORITE BAR AND BAKERY’

By Allison Kave and Keavy Landreth Some of my favorite cookbooks have come from restaurants all over the country. For the times I cannot travel to these cool destinations, baking or cooking from these books gives me a hint of some of these exotic destinations – without the hefty airline ticket.

While a boozy bakery in New York may not seem exotic at first, this cookbook provides a richly deep look at both the substance of the recipes and character of each dishes’ presentation. A cheeky attitude toward baking lends one to be more interested in trying things that seem odd or unusual, such as Negroni Pie or Pepsi Milk.

So, pop open your favorite bottle of bubbly or otherwise, and let the festivities begin! ¢ ‘COMMONWEALTH’

By Ann Patchett Contrary to what you may hear in popular songs, a kiss is never just a kiss.

In “Commonwealth,” a kiss at a christening party turns into an affair, which turns into a divorce, which turns into the severing of two families. We see the children’s adult lives unfold after an

42 | DECEMBER 2016 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

OUT & ABOUT

unsupervised summer tragedy that takes place during a childhood vacation. While a novelist could easily bombard the reader with hundreds of pages of minutiae, we are safely in the hands of one of America’s best writers. We learn just enough about each character to pick up on the effects of how one moment can change the lifetimes of many.

It’s the perfect book for stealing precious moments away from the hectic holiday season. ¢ ‘THE WONDER’

By Emma Donoghue A nurse from the Florence Nightingale era, Lib, is put to the ultimate spiritual test when she is tasked with overnight watch of a 14-year-old girl, Anna, who has fasted for four months. Anna, her family and her town all believe that she has been able to fast because she was chosen

by God to carry out his mission. Lib is conflicted by her secular sensibilities and her astonishment at Anna’s sustained condition without food for several months. How will this resolve? This book is part philosophy text, part fictional story and a ferocious mystery.

Donoghue demonstrated in her previous best-seller, “Room,” that she has a talent for absorbing the mindset of an unfamiliar character. This book is no different, and I hope you will be as inspired as I was to keep reading her work.

www.nwherald.com/magazine

¢ ‘DOMINO: YOUR GUIDE TO A STYLISH HOME’ By the editors of Domino magazine: Jessica Romm Perez and Shani Silver This is the second book published by the Domino enterprise, and it is both inspirational and instructional. Identify your style, then learn how to put your look together to express that style. The magazine has always done a good job of balancing the need for décor to incorporate modern elements, as well as pay equal attention to those who appreciate a more traditional/ vintage approach. In other words, there’s something for everyone.

Bonus! The publisher is releasing a boxed set of both Domino books (“Domino: The Book of Decorating: A Room-by-Room Guide to Creating a Home That Makes You Happy,”) which is perfect for anyone with an interest in HGTV.

¢ ‘EAT PRETTY EVERY DAY: 365 DAILY INSPIRATIONS FOR NOURISHING BEAUTY, INSIDE AND OUT’

By Jolene Hart Jolene Hart’s work centers around the idea that the right food translates into beauty far more than any cosmetic product ever will. Rather than taking an all-or-nothing approach – as many healthconscious diet and beauty books do – Hart creates bite-sized mantras and tidbits of ways to incorporate her philosophy into everyday food choices. This approach encourages the kind of balanced eating in moderation that makes one feel good mentally, as well as physically (without shaming previous habits).

It’s portable, light in size, and it can also double as motivation for New Year’s resolutions. It’s a win-win book, and I can’t wait to have a “prettier” year!

Sandra Manley, LSW, grew up in Island Lake, IL. She is an Oncology Social Worker at the Robert H. Lurie Comprehensive Cancer Center, specializing in Adolescent and Young Adult Oncology and Solid Tumors. In her spare time she can be found roasting vegetables in her oven, enjoying a very dark cup of coffee, and of course, reading. You can follow what she is reading on Goodreads: Goodreads.com/SandraReadsMSW.

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OUT & ABOUT

MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2016 | 43

Artist SHOWCASE PAT BRUTCHIN LAKE IN THE HILLS SCULPTURE ‘BALLERINA’

Pat Brutchin considers herself an artist of figural expression.

“In my drawings and sculpture, my focus is to explore the idea of creating meditative, sometimes whimsical, and contorted structures … ,” says Brutchin, who uses anatomical structures to create motion and mood. “Sculpture has liberated my ability to express form in three dimensions.”

The ballerina sculpture was cast in bronze using the “lost wax” casting process. The sculpture tries to capture the poetry of a ballerina’s body language.

“The idea of sculpting a ballerina was something I had always wanted to do,” she says. “While the pose may appear calm … I wanted to capture the moment when she stopped her practice in dance – the skirt, still in motion, not quite yet settling into straight folds.”

Brutchin has a master of fine art from the University of Cincinnati in Ohio, and a bachelor of fine art from Wichita State University in Kansas.

Her work has appeared in numerous group and solo exhibitions, and is represented in both permanent and private collections in the Midwest.

Solo exhibitions have included Lakeside Legacy Arts Park in Crystal Lake, The Illinois Institute of Art in Schaumburg, The Springfield Museum of Art in Ohio, The Ulrich Museum of Art and Design in Kansas and the Danada Sculpture Garden in Cantigny Park in Wheaton.

The artist owns a studio – Brutchin Art Studio – where she teaches drawing and sculpture, and also offers workshops in figure drawing and sculpture.

Brutchin also teaches at Elgin Community College, where she is an instructor of art appreciation, drawing, life drawing, 3D-design and sculpture.

Periodically, she teaches drawing and sculpture at Ambers Art Place in Lake in the Hills, as well.

Brutchin Art Studio is located at 120 Center Drive in Gilberts (near Hwy 90 and Hwy 72). For more information or to view more of Brutchin’s work, visit www.brutchinart.com or email brutchin@ mc.net.

To submit an entry to Artist Showcase, email artwork, title of piece, name and village of residence of artist, a two- to three-sentence description of the piece, short bio and artist photo to McHenryCountyMagazine@shawmedia.com, subject head “Local Artist Submission.” www.nwherald.com/magazine

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OUT & ABOUT

MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2016 | 45

DECEMBER 2016

CALENDAR

SANTA’S FESTIVAL OF TREES MERRY CARY HOLIDAY PARADE AND FESTIVAL WHEN: 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 2 WHERE: Village Hall 600 Harvest Gate, Lake in the Hills During Santa’s Festival of Trees, visitors will view trees decorated by local business, civic groups and individuals. Santa will be waiting inside Village Hall for a photo opportunity.

Trees will be on display through the month of December.

A VERY MERRY HUNTLEY

WHEN: Friday, Dec. 2, and Saturday, Dec. 3 WHERE: Multiple locations in Huntley On Dec. 2, A Very Merry Huntley will feature a Kris Kringle Market, arts and crafts in the kids room, horse-drawn trolley rides, a visit with Mrs. Claus, hot chocolate and visitors are asked to bring their spare change in order to vote for the best decorated tree. All of the money will go to the Grafton Food Pantry.

On Dec. 3, the event will feature an indoor farmers market and craft fair, a cookie walk, kids crafts, live reindeer, a handbell choir performance, carolers, horse-drawn trolley rides, the lighting of the Christmas tree in the gazebo and town square and Santa will arrive. For locations, the schedule of events and more information, visit www.huntley. il.us.

HOLIDAY ROCK ON THE FOX

WHEN: 5:30 to 7 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3 WHERE: Riverfront Park 201 N. Harrison St., Algonquin Kick off the holiday season at the annual Holiday Rock on the Fox event, which will feature a community tree lighting, candy cane hunt, a visit with Santa and attendees can watch a block of ice transform into a holiday sculpture. For more information, visit www.algonquin.org/recreation.

MARENGO-UNION HOLIDAY HOUSEWALK WHEN: 9 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3, and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 4 WHERE: Various locations in Marengo and Union

The 25th annual Holiday Housewalk will feature more than 50 crafters and artists at 15 locations throughout the Marengo and Union area. Displays include a wide variety of unique handcrafted items, decorated antiques and holiday décor. For more information, visit holidayhousewalk.com.

46 | DECEMBER 2016 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

WHEN: Noon to 3:30 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 4 (Parade begins at 1 p.m.)

WHERE: West Main Street, Cary The annual festival and parade will feature a petting zoo, pony rides, horse-drawn sleigh rides, visits with Santa, carolers, a story time with Mrs. Claus and more. For more information and a schedule of events, visit www.carygrovechamber.com.

KIWANIS SANTA RUN WHEN: 9 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 4 WHERE: Raue Center for the Arts 26 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake

Kiwanis Santa Run for kids, a 5K run/walk, helps raise financial assistance for children in McHenry County who need help. Witness a sea of Santa’s running or walking along the streets of downtown Crystal Lake. All of the proceeds of this event will stay in the county. For more information, visit www. kiwaniscrystallake.com.

NAUGHTY AND NICE HOLIDAY SPAGHETTI DINNER

WHEN: 6 p.m. Friday, Dec. 9 WHERE: Village Hall 600 Harvest Gate, Lake in the Hills The family-friendly holiday event will feature visits from Santa and The Grinch. Spaghetti and meatballs, bread, tossed salad, cookies and drinks will be served. The event also will feature a deejay, “GrinchMas” Trivia and photo opportunities. The registration deadline is Dec. 7. For more information, visit www.lith.org.

HOLIDAY FAIRE HOMEMADE FOR THE HOLIDAYS

WHEN: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 10 and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 11 WHERE: McHenry County Fair Grounds, 11900 Country Club Road, Woodstock The third annual event will feature more than 30 artisan vendors, all offering handmade items. Other activities will include meeting Elsa and Santa, creating crafts in the “Kids Craft Corner,” going on a storytelling hayride and stopping by one of the various demonstrations that can teach patrons various skill sets.

OUT & ABOUT

IN SEARCH OF EAGLES

WHEN: 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 10 WHERE: Prairieview Education Center 2112 Behan Road, Crystal Lake The search for eagles will take place 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. at the McHenry Dam, Algonquin Dam, Carpentersville Dam and Fontana Beach.

Representatives from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Friends of Hackmatack Wildlife Refuge, Illinois Department of Natural Resources and McHenry County Audubon will be at three locations along the Fox River to help people search for eagles. New this year is a fourth spot on Fontana beach, located along Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. There will be scopes and binoculars available for use at each location, as well as guided activities for children. Maps of the locations are available at MCCDistrict.org (under special events).

The Eagles of Illinois presentation at the Prairieview Education Center, 2112 Behan Road, Crystal Lake, will take place from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Space is limited and registration is required. The event is for all ages, and it’s free.

HOLIDAY WINE DINNER

WHEN: 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 10 WHERE: Duke’s Alehouse and Kitchen 110 N. Main St., Crystal Lake Duke’s Alehouse and Kitchen will host its first wine dinner. The kitchen will serve five ecoconscious dishes, each paired with a wine.

Tickets cost $69.16. For more information and the menu, visit thedukeabides.com.

VICTORIAN HOLIDAY TEA WHEN: 12:30 to 2 p.m. and 3 to 4:30 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 11 WHERE: Colonel Palmer House 660 E. Terra Cotta Road, Crystal Lake

As guests sip their tea, the history of tea and the proper way to enjoy it will be presented during the 19th century, Victorian event.

STEVE COCHRAN’S NYE COMEDY SHOW WHEN: 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 31 WHERE: Raue Center for the Arts 26 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake

Radio 720 WGN’s Steve Cochran and special guests will visit the Raue Center for the Arts for a New Year’s Eve comedy show. Tickets start at $52. For tickets or more information, visit rauecenter.org.

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OUT & ABOUT

MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2016 | 47

BREAST CANCER CHOSE HER SHE CHOSE TO FIGHT BACK

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