MCM June 2016 by Shaw Media

JUNE 2016 Leisure & Recreation

EDITION

Karrie Ozyuk, owner of Lucky Brake Bicycles, cycles for fun and actively encourages others to do the same.

GET FESTIVE! So many festivals, so little summer. Check out the area’s best events. page 8

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PAINT

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Meet Pepper Annex's Women of Distinction Shalyn Hall- Owner/stylist Carissa Baber-Stylist

Anna Golebiewska - Stylist

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Chrysalis

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41 N. Williams Street Historic Downtown Crystal Lake 815.455.3600 | www.dalzelljewelers.com

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INSIDE LEISURE & RECREATION 8 FESTIVAL FUN — Enjoy the summer festivals both old and new that build community and support in McHenry County. 14 PEDAL POWER — Karrie Ozyuk, owner of Lucky Brake Bicycles in Crystal Lake, cycles for fun and actively encourages others to do the same.

FAMILY IN FOCUS 18 HIDDEN TREASURES — Discover the outdoor adventure of Geocaching throughout McHenry County. 24 BACKYARD FUN — Easy and enjoyable entertainment ideas for your summer backyard gathering. 27 LIFE LESSON — Columnist Michelle Stien secured her spot on the crazy train by running the Boston Marathon in April. She recounts her experience.

HOME & LIFESTYLE 28 TAKE A LOAD OFF — Explore these budget-friendly ways to create relaxing spaces right at your own home. 32 COLORFUL CONTAINERS — Flower boxes and plant containers are great ways to decorate outdoor decks and walkways. 34 QUAINT PAINT — Suran Built puts the finishing touch on your home’s walls with a fresh coat of professionally-applied paint. 38 IDEAS FOR DAD — Don’t forget your father! Book columnist Sandra Manley gives some recommendations on good reads to treat the dad you love on his speical day.

FASHION & BEAUTY 42 GUYS GROOMING GUIDE —The experts at Pepper Annex offer tips for men’s hair care and encourage a visit to a spa for special treatment.

HEALTH & WELLNESS 44 TIME FOR A CHANGE — Columnist Dr. Tony Ebel sites current statistics for the Centers for Disease Control on the realities kids face today and how chiropractic can help.

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FINANCE 46 MONEY MATTERS — Dorion Gray financial columnist shares the importance of family meetings to discuss current and future finances.

BUSINESS & CIVIC 47 WOMAN OF DISTINCTION — Ann Viger, 2016 Woman of Distinction winner, enjoys working with the public and her peers to see a project to completion. 48 SOCIAL LIFE — Browse through pictures of the recent Women of Distinction awards luncheon where local ladies were honored for being leaders and role models in their communities.

OUT & ABOUT 49 CALENDAR OF EVENTS — Check out a variety of local events, courtesy of our own Planit Northwest website! 50 ARTIST PROFILE —J.F. Bolet of Lake in the Hills shares his ink on paper piece titled “Shadows on a Wall.”

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Sumer is upon us!

or even just hammocks.

June is when school ends for the kids, there is a (brief) respite from the crazy spring sports activities, and the weather becomes mostly temperate and cooperative.

If nature is your thing, we’ve got a great article on Geocaching through our county’s park districts. Essentially you set out for hidden treasure in nature, guided by a GPS location. It’s great fun and can be quite challenging!

So we spend this issue of McHenry County Magazine looking forward to Leisure, Fun and Festivals throughout the summer that literally abound in this county of ours.

And we haven’t forgotten about Dad. Father’s Day is this month, remember, and we’ve got some great book suggestions for his pleasure.

If you find yourself bored on any particular weekend between now and September, you need only look inside for ideas of ways to entertain yourself and your family during these fleeting months we can comfortably enjoy outside without parkas or umbrellas.

In addition, please enjoy some photos of our most recent Women of Distinction Awards luncheon held at the Crystal Lake Country Club. These women deserve to be honored we were happy to provide them the platform.

Have a beautiful Looking for food, fun, rides, games AND live summer. And, as music? Check out any of the area festivals we have always, thanks for featured and listed. One of them is sure to satiate reading! your desire for a corn dog or carnival ride. Don’t want to leave home but still want to have fun? Refer to our recommendations for backyard games at a summer get-together with friends. Or explore options to make your own backyard a retreat in and of itself with decks, patios, pergolas

Publisher Kate Weber 815-526-4400 kweber@shawmedia.com

Allison McCaleb Managing Editor / Senior Designer

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

amccaleb@shawmedia.com 815-526-4485

Editor / Designer Allison McCaleb 815-526-4485 amccaleb@shawmedia.com Correspondents Stephanie N. Grimoldby, Michelle Stien, Yvonne Benson, Dana McKenna, Sandra Manley, Wendy Foster, Kelsey O’Connor, Melissa Rubalcaba Riske Photographers Melissa Emory, Nancy Merkling, Janet Kay, Jessi Kristine President / Shaw Media John Rung jrung@shawmedia.com 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.

on the

COVER PEDAL POWER

Karrie Ozyuk is an active cyclist and encourages others to do the same. She’s the owner of Lucky Brake Bicycles in Crystal Lake and says biking is for people who are just riding for fun and family 6 | JUNE 2016 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

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and everything in between. Read her story starting on page 14.

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“Before I saw Dr. Rivard at Illinois Vein Specialists, it was tough doing my job.”

Dr. Stephen P. Rivard (L.) and Mr. Craig Frey (R.), fronting the famous 18th “Waterwheel” hole at Makray Memorial Golf Club

raig Frey is the sous-chef at the popular Oak Terrace Grille at Barrington’s own Makray Memorial Golf Club. His demanding job as Number 2 at a top-rated restaurant requires hours on his feet—every day. Even though Craig is a young man, his achy legs during a busy shift made a tough job nearly impossible. He needed relief and became a patient of Illinois Vein Specialists in 2010. Dr. Stephen Rivard, medical director of IVS, recalls: “Craig’s vein disease, like that of many others in our practice, started in his late teens and, by the time I saw him, the disease was quite advanced.”

Myth 3: The treatment of varicose veins is just a cosmetic fix and unless the leg hurts, there really is no reason other than vanity to seek repair. The myth that varicose veins don’t need to be treated unless they are painful is not only incorrect it is often dangerous to the patient’s health. Varicose veins are a sign of an important vascular insufficiency and compromise. Like arterial hypertension and dental cavities, the insidious nature of chronic venous hypertension is progressively destructive and should be treated before pain and other symptoms occur.

Myth 6: Vein disease is a sign of aging and only occurs in older adults. Increasing age is a slight risk factor for varicose veins because of wear and tear on the vein valves that regulate blood flow. Patients certainly perceive it as more common as they age because the disease has had longer to make its symptoms known and is more advanced and has done more damage.

Dr. Rivard adds: “Craig is a good example of one of the widely-held myths about vein disease— that it primarily is a concern of older adults. This is just not the case. Take a look below at six common myths about vein disease.” SIX MYTHS ABOUT VEIN DISEASE Myth 1: Once varicose or spider veins have been repaired, they will always re-occur. The recurrence of varicose veins after treatment is a myth born from the prior inadequate care. Treatment methods in the past, while done with best intentions, actually caused recurrence of varicose veins. With the onset of Board Certification, methods of treatment have become more organized, safer and more efficient. Now recurrence rates should be below 5%. Myth 2: It is best to wait until a woman has had all her pregnancies to deal with varicose and spider veins. While there is some historical experience underlying this myth, it was also born out of the fact that prior treatments for varicose veins were often inadequate and frequently led to recurrence. New treatments, however, are safe, virtually painless and, more than 98% of the time, lead to permanent resolution of varicose veins at their source. The new paradigm ought to be that obstetric physicians send their patients for venous insuffin w h e revaluation a l d . c o m /m a g atoz itheir n e getting pregnant. ciency prior

Myth 5: So-called “vein stripping” is the best way to treat varicose veins. Outdated techniques such as vein stripping to treat varicose veins are sadly still being used by some even today. This is a two-hour inpatient surgical procedure requiring anesthesia. Even more troubling, vein stripping works less than half the time, is painful, fraught with complications and often makes matters worse. Ultrasound guided laser therapy by a Board Certified Phlebologist is over 98% effective for virtually painlessly and permanently treating varicose veins with little if any side effects in an outpatient setting.

However, the primary cause of vein disease, accounting for about 80% of cases, is hereditary. It is not at all unusual to find varicose veins in young adults and even teenagers. Craig Frey—before and after photos for treatment of varicose veins

Myth 4: Because the treatment of varicose veins is cosmetic, insurance does not cover the expense. While the treatment of spider veins is often considered a vanity or cosmetic issue and is not covered by insurance, the treatment of varicose veins is not a cosmetic issue and is almost always covered by insurance. In our experience, the initial diagnostic evaluation for venous disease is covered by insurance more than 90% of the time as well. The insurance coverage is determined by a qualified phlebologist using ultrasonography testing the size and function/dysfunction of the veins in the legs.

Illinois Vein Specialists opened in 2009 and has a staff of a dozen—physicians, RNs, medical technicians, ultrasound specialists and administrative personnel. Since then they have helped well over a thousand Barrington-area patients. “One of the things I like the best about specializing in vein disease is the opportunity to meet wonderful people like Craig Frey; being able to help them is the reason I get up in the morning.” To find out how Illinois Vein Specialists, A Center of Excellence in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Vein Disease™, might be able to help you: call for an appointment at 847-277-9100, stop by our offices at 22285 Pepper Rd, (suite 105), Lake Barrington and look at our “brag book” or visit us on-line at www.Illinoisveinspecialists.com. MCHENRY COUNTY | JUNE 2016 | © 2012 Illinois Vein Specialists. AllMAGAZINE rights reserved.

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Festival Fun!

Summer festivals old and new build community and support for McHenry County

By KELSEY O’CONNOR

friendly fun. They celebrate everything from local history, to arts and culture, to just enjoying the summer season. But these events provide so much more than entertainment.

bring people from outside the community to come and experience them,”says Jaki cHenry County has Berggren, executive director of tourism more than enough festivals to keep residents bureau Visit McHenry County. “Any time people are out and about in the community busy all summer long. These local fests include spending money and going places there’s a wide range of activities, definitely an economic impact to our area.” Many of these seasonal festivals also reinvest musical acts, food their proceeds back into the community. options and family-

Rockin’ Ribfest Food

“These festivals

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“Any organization that’s going to put on an event that’s going to raise money for a charity or a community organization is a benefit for the area,” says Berggren. “It makes quality of life for the people who live here that much better.” One such festival is Harvard Milk Days, one of the longest-running hometown festivals in the state. The festivities have been extended an extra day this year in honor of the event’s 75th anniversary. Milk Days began in 1942 as a small gathering to pay tribute to the local dairy farmers. Today, it has n w h e r a l d . c o m /m a g a z i n e

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grown into a multi-day affair that can reach attendance of more than 30,000 people. “We have activities that involve pretty much all age groups throughout the community,” says Mike Bannwolf, cogeneral chairman of the Milk Days Board. “We also listen to the community on things that they would like to see and we have a great partnership with the city of Harvard.”

Milk Days Bed Races Founders Days Parade

Though the festival continues to evolve, some traditions have stood the test of time. The fest has crowned an annual Milk Queen since 1945, though she no longer emerges from a huge wooden milk bottle. Other Milk Days staples include the parade with multiple marching bands, and Bed Races, where teams in pajamas complete an obstacle course while riding a wheeled bed. Milk Days also has a long history of giving back to the community. “Proceeds go back in to the community in various ways and in to the development of the Milk Days grounds. Over the last eight years, Milk Days has put more than $200,000 in improvements to Milky Ways Park, which are utilized by the community,” says Bannwolf.

Founders Days Cardboard Cup Regatta

In comparison to Milk Days, Rockin’ RibFest is a relative newcomer. But the festival has already garnered a strong following. Lake in the Hills Rotary Club puts on the annual event, now in its 11th year, which culminates in the Lip Smackin’ BBQ SmackDown. The competition includes a professional and amateur rib cook-off, with awards given for best sauce and best rack of ribs.

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Fiesta Days Parade Besides plenty of ribs, the festival also includes a wide variety of food vendors and musical entertainment. Regional acts such as Molly Hatchet, Lee Rocker, 7th Heaven and Kashmir will take the stage this year at Sunset Park in Lake in the Hills. RibFest also will host a car show featuring restored, classic, exotic and antique automobiles. All proceeds from the festival go to support the mission of the Lake in the Hills Rotary Club. “We needed a way to be able to raise funds in order to do all the projects we do. We do a lot of community service work,” says Dot Dustin, event chair of RibFest and president-elect of the Rotary Club. In previous years, funds from RibFest have gone to scholarships for local students, the Lake in the Hills veterans’ memorial and a new local frisbee park.

Summer Sunset Festival Live Music

“This festival brings the community together and not just the Lake in the Hills community, but really people from all over McHenry and Kane County,” says Dustin. “They know that they’re going to get some great food, some great music and they know that the money we raise with this festival is going to go toward some great charity work.”

(Events) make quality of life for the people who live here that much better.

Summer Sunset Festival Rides

Jaki Berggren, executive director of tourism bureau Visit McHenry County

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Helping Honeymooners

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Williams Street Festival

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Rockin’ Ribfest Lake in the Hills • July 7-10

Summer In The Park Woodstock • July 13-17

McHenry Fiesta Days McHenry • July 15-24

Algonquin Founders’ Day Algonquin • July 28-31

McHenry County Fair Woodstock • Aug. 3-17

Blues, Brews, BBQ McHenry • Aug. 5-7

Hair cuts for women, men, and children.

Summer Sunset Festival Lake in the Hills • Sept. 2-5

Saufen and Spiel Johnsburg • Sept. 11

Cary Main Street Fest Cary • Sept. 17-18

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before

AFTER

Transform Your Business! Transform Your Life!ÂŽ

uring her 20-year sales and marketing career, Business Strategist Kathleen Caldwell restructured, revitalized and re-energized corporate teams and organizations. In the process, she learned more than how to sell complex products and build effective teams.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Through my experience I realized that I educated and inspired people not only to succeed in business, but also enjoy a fantastic quality of life,â&#x20AC;? said Caldwell, who held major leadership roles within several startup and established companies. She could have stayed in Corporate America, but... â&#x20AC;&#x153;I stepped back and realized that what I truly wanted to do was to bring this success methodology and knowledge to a broader corporate and individual audience,â&#x20AC;? she said. That decision led to the founding of Caldwell Consulting Group, LLC and a series of specialized educational and mentoring programs known collectively as the WHEE Institute ÂŽ. An acronym for the Wealthy, Healthy, Energetic Edge, the institute is unique. Its philosophy and approach are holistic and comprehensive. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Our mission is to help people be successful in business, health, vitality and life. We focus on strategies to love our business and career, body and life, Caldwell explained.

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A sought-after speaker, business consultant and author, Caldwell has developed programs that incorporate education, coaching, mentoring and collaboration with other WHEE participants from around the globe. WHEE participants learn and implement new strategies for successfully managing their business and career, which carries

over to their lives replacing exhaustion with inspiration, and recapturing the thrill of setting and achieving new goals. The WHEE Instituteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Team Intelligenceâ&#x201E;˘ program focuses on strategies for the group to succeed as a whole, renew the energy and creativity of team leaders and inspire the emergence of new group leaders. Active in the community, Caldwellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s collaboration with local, national and global business leaders continues to fuel her innovation and spark new ideas. She is the Chair of the Crystal Lake Chamber of Commerce Foundation, graduate of LGMC and a member of many Chambers of Commerce and professional organizations. She has also received numerous awards and honors including a Women of Achievement Award, a Women ďż˝ďż˝ ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ ďż˝ďż˝ ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ and many others. Caldwell also holds three United States trademarks for her work in entrepreneurship, team building and leadership. Her book, Blueprint for Success features Caldwell, Dr. Ken Blanchard, author of the One Minute Manager, Dr. Stephen Covey, author of Seven Habits of Highly Effective People, and thirteen business experts, sharing their insights on success and how to achieve it. ďż˝ďż˝ ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ ďż˝ďż˝ ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ ďż˝ďż˝ ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ ďż˝ ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝notherapist, ZUMBAÂŽ ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ďż˝ â&#x20AC;&#x153;Not only can you achieve your dreams and goals, you can have a fun time doing it,â&#x20AC;? she said.

See what WHEE can do for YOU and YOUR organization: For More Information Contact:

Kathleen Caldwell

815.206.4014 www.caldwellconsulting.biz

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Karrie Ozyuk, owner of Lucky Brake Bicycles, cycles for fun and actively encourages others to do the same.

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Photos by MELISSA EMORY

3 The most popular brands to move off the floor at Lucky Brake Bicycles include Schwinn, Giant, BMX and Specialized.

By WENDY FOSTER

hat Karrie Ozyuk of Crystal Lake likes best about cycling is that is an activity that is for virtually everyone.

6 Karrie Ozyuk also offers stylish accessories that they will mount on your bike for you.

“There’s such a variety of cyclists out there. Everything from the Ironman athlete to people who are just riding for fun and family, and everything in between,” she says. Ozyuk is the owner of Lucky Brake Bicycles of Crystal Lake, and a selfprofessed enthusiastic cyclist. The shop, which was first opened in 1951 as one of the original Schwinn bike franchises, provides sales of bicycles and accessories, as well as extensive maintenance and service. Ozyuk purchased Lucky Brake three years ago from the owner for whom she’d worked almost 20 years. She started in the buisness as a sales person when she was 19 at what was then the Village Peddler. Ozyuk moved through the ranks, becoming a store manager and then a mechanic. In addition to having earned a long and impressive list of mechanic certifications, Ozyuk became one in only 80 certified master body geometry fitters. “We make the bike fit the rider,” she says, with the objective being “comfort, injury prevention and power. It’s awesome and can be done for every possible rider.” Lucky Brake boasts what Ozyuk said is a “large inventory” stocking close to 500 units annually. “I have about 153 on the floor, and the rest in the storage basement and garage. We like to have our items available quickly.” The most popular brands include Schwinn, Giant, BMX and Specialized. “We definitely provide a very high quality product,” she says. Prices start at about $350 for adult bikes, with the average hovering at about $900. They also offer used bikes and rentals.

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Lucky Brake also has a busy and well-respected repair department. “We have certifications, knowledge and experience. If someone is spending a lot of money on their bike, they want to know that the technician is certified and qualified,” she says.

3Lucky Brake Bicycles has a busy and well-respected repair department with certified technicians.

Ozyuk says that while it can be tempting to try to order bikes online, there are important advantages to working with your local brick and mortar store. Accurate fit is important she says, and can only be guaranteed by having the opportunity to try the bike out, and have it adjusted as needed. “Furthermore, all of our bikes come with the Lucky Brake service guarantee. That means that you get professional assembly, a free two-month tune-up, free lifetime adjustments, service discounts and free accessory installation. And we accept trade-ins when you’re looking for an upgrade,” she says. The perceived perk of almost instant gratification by ordering online can also be matched. “We can get things as soon as the next day,” she says. Ozyuk says that cycling is becoming increasingly popular. “It’s cool to be fit now,” she says. “And families are spending more and more time together. The Crystal Lake area is a strong and very family-oriented community.”

PROGRAMS AND EVENTS An integral part of the Crystal Lake community, Ozyuk relishes the opportunity to encourage cycling and network with area organizations. 8th Annual Run and Roll for the Dole is a fundraiser sponsored by Lucky Brakes, supporting Lakeside Arts Park at The Dole in Crystal Lake. Wheels, Women and Wine is a monthly social fun ride for ladies. “My idea was to introduce people to how fun it is to cycle. A lot of people think they can’t ride two miles, but at the end of our event, can’t believe how easy it was for them to ride five,” she said. The ladies conclude the evening back at the shop with snacks, wine and camaraderie. Saturday Morning Road Fitness Group includes beginner and more advanced cyclists riding in groups onto country roads. Pedal for Pints includes Crystal Lake Brewing which has partnered with Ozyuk for Friday night rides leading from the brewery in June and July. Bike With Your Neighbor is an initiative with the Sustainability Committee of Crystal Lake. “I go out and do a seminar on how to ride safely and basic rules of the road,” says Ozyuk.

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For a full listing of events, visit their website at LuckyBrakeBikes.com.

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815.477.2589 • www.hoganexteriors.com • 820 McArdle Drive • Crystal Lake MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | JUNE 2016 | 17

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Hidden Treasure Discover the outdoor adventure of Geocaching throughout McHenry County.

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FAMILY IN FOCUS

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By YVONNE BENSON eocaching is a year-round, outdoor treasure hunt popular around the world that Stephanie Michael helped bring to McHenry County, IT Specialist and Administrator for the McHenry County Conservation District. Essentially, you use an app on your smart phone to find where a collection of items, known in this activity as a “cache,” is hidden. Once you log in to the app, you will be shown your location on a map. Then you will be shown scattered dots that suround your location. Each of those dots is a cache. Tap on the dots and the app will give you information about that particular cache. The app then helps you navigate to the target and provides helpful information about its size and, somtimes, hints to its location. “Geocaching is a great recreational activity for anyone,” Michael says. “You can do it by yourself, with your family or friends and your dog. There are caches for everyone — quick parkand-grabs or ones with lengthy hikes. You can find the perfect caches for you. Geoaching is also everywhere Download the app, Geocaching. com, (it’s free!) and see what’s near you.” Caches can be anything from a food storage container to a specially-marked rock. Once you find it, you can opt to exchange a trinket inside the cache with one of your own, or just sign the log and be on your way. “I’ve seen toy cars and figurines but the coolest things are the trackables,” Michael says. “Trackables come with a code and a mission. The intentions being for someone else to find it, take it and move it to another cache. You can then log that you moved it. Each trackable has its own page online where you can follow its journey. I have placed a couple of District 1s and they have gone as far

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as Germany and Israel.” After the trinket exchange, Michael says you sign the logbook and share your experiences through Geocaching.com. You can also log your find on the app. “The beauty of using the phone app is that when you log it, you can take and post a picture with it. People love to show off the animals they’ve seen or the pretty view. I’ve seen muddy children and dogs or people celebrating their milestone caches.”

Our first event was a one day rally where you could learn how to geocache. I then started doing it myself and noticed some other similar agencies had what were called passport programs. It seemed like a different way to get people out to the sites so we gave it a try. It quickly became popular and now we have a permanent GeoTour that can be completed any time as well as an annual program that runs August thru the end of November.” Perhaps you’ll be like Michael and catch the geocaching bug. She says she ha become an avid geocacher and currently has nearly 800 finds with a goal of hitting 1,000 by the end of 2016.

Besides trinkets and fun log posts, Michael says she hopes that people take away something greater from the McHenry County “I found one in Cozumel and one on Grand Conservation geocaching program.

5 Geocahces are hidden “treasures” found by using a GPS device, or smart phone, and an app. “The biggest thing is I hope is that people discover something new about the district. I try to place (the caches) in sites that are lessvisited or, in the more popular sites, I’ll put them in a less common area. I want people to see all the Conservation District has to offer and discover a new park. Each year also has a theme (2015 was frogs and this year is bats) so I hope people learn a little something about the topic.” Michael says she is in charge of handling public inquiries for placing geocaches on our property. “I noticed how popular it was and made a proposal for our education department to do a kind of ‘how to’ program. FAMILY IN FOCUS

Cayman while on a family cruise last year, so those were pretty cool. I found a really neat Wildlife Refuge in Tennessee that I would never have found if I wasn’t geocaching. That’s probably the coolest thing about geocaching, finding places you didn’t even know existed. I have found many parks within the tri-county area (Lake, Boone and Kane) that I never knew existed. I was already pretty familiar with McHenry County but once I ‘cached out’ this county, I had to expand my radius!” Geocaching could be a fun way to get outside this summer and explore your community, town or county. It’s something that can be taken with you on the weekends or vacations as a free add-on adventure. MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | JUNE 2016 | 19

5/24/16 1:30 PM

Wednesday, June 29, 2016 from 11:00 AM to 2:30 PM (CDT) Registration: 11 a.m. Luncheon:

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June 27, 2016 *Includes workshop session following the luncheon. Once tickets are purchased, there will be no refunds available.

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Backyard

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FAMILY IN FOCUS

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Easy and enjoyable entertainment ideas for your summer backyard gathering.

By YVONNE BENSON here are many ways to bring people together in the yard: barbecues, picnics, children’s parties and more. The formula for a good time is simple — friends, loved ones and food. Added bonuses are music or a simple game to help ease the conversation between folks who just met or are looking for something to do when the grill stops flipping out burgers. Sometimes the games can separate into different conversations in distinct spaces. For example, one group can discuss a topic around the picnic table while another group can visit over a game of horseshoes. Games can also be an excellent diversion when folks don’t feel like chatting so that things don’t get awkward.

least one or two of those games over the past couple summers, too. It seems as if every household has a homemade version of the bean bag toss game that involves two slightly inclined boards with holes in the middle. You probably remember playing a few other games and fondly wonder why folks aren’t still playing them. Backyard games have had their own evolution. “Backyard games that have slowed down in recent years are horseshoes, volleyball,

Inflatable games keep gaining in popularity.

badminton and tug of war to name a few,” Kloechner says. “Although, all are still fun and a nice complement to a backyard party.” Even though there are games that were once the rage that have taken a backseat, there are some rarities that Kloechner recommends. “A couple of hidden gems in the hot summer months would be slip-n-slide inflatables and/or dunk tanks. Those are sure crowd pleasers,” he says. A backyard game can also keep the kids busy while the adults sit around and talk. “I, myself, have a bouncer for my daughters ages 1 and 4. Nothing beats their smiles when I set it up.”

Dan Kloechner, Assistant Manager at Ed’s Rental & Sales in McHenry (also in Algonquin and Crystal Lake), knows about backyard entertainment. One trend that he’s noticed is that backyard gatherings are growing.

What’s great about backyard games is their universal appeal. “Most of the games I mentioned are suitable for all ages,” Kloechner says. “People often stress out when planning and throwing a party. Just remember, a party often makes itself, but a little help never hurts.”

“Inflatable games keep gaining in popularity,” Kloechner says. “Fifteen years ago we had one style jumper, whereas today we have dozens of options. “Popular adult games would include the bean bag toss game, a golf chipping challenge game, and washer toss to name a few.”

— Dan Kloechner, assistant manager at Ed’s Rental & Sales

Chances are, you’ve played at

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Kloechner suggests that “several little-known kids game options would be pin the tail on the donkey, a strike em’ out game, QB toss and the like.” In general, all those games have the goal of getting a ball (or tail) to a particular target — usually a hole.

FAMILY IN FOCUS

The basic formula for a good time is essentially friends, loved ones and food. Then throw in a little extra pizazz for good measure by including backyard games.

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611 S. Main Street, Crystal Lake, Illinois 60014

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Life Lessons In an effort to solidify my seat on the crazy train, I ran the Boston Marathon this past April. I had qualified for it back in October of 2014, but based on the registration requirements and deadlines, I had to wait a year before I could even register, and then another seven months to actually participate in the event. I announced to 957 of my closest friends on Facebook that I had qualified and gathered quite the virtual fan club. They rallied behind

me all the way. That’s what made the fact that I bonked at mile 18 and landed myself in the medic tent at mile 23 — completely dehydrated and barely able to carry on — even more embarrassing.

After spending a half-hour lying on a cot wrapped in blankets, I finally felt well enough to get up and finish the last three miles of the race. It was 74 degrees when I started the marathon, which is probably what led to my dehydration in the first place, and 52 degrees when I finished. I was so cold that my best option was to run to stay warm and end this whole thing sooner rather than later.

Going into all of this I said I would never run another marathon. I said I would check this off my bucket list and move on. I called this my “vasectomy marathon.”

However, once the nausea wore off, the chaffing had healed and I could walk down a set of stairs without looking like an 80 year old, I realized I wasn’t done. Just like giving birth, all that pain and agony was soon erased. I also had a few fellow runners get inside my head and tell me I needed to come back next year and do it again. I chuckled at this notion. Even if I wanted to re-qualify it would have to be for the 2018 Boston Marathon. I knew the fire in my belly would fizzle if I lost momentum. Then I realized I could re-qualify for next year if I squeezed a marathon in before September 11 of this year. Needless to say, I was looking up Boston Qualifying marathons before we checked out of our hotel.

This was one of the first times I struggled and where my finish left me disappointed in myself. Yet, somehow I knew that this all happened for a reason. I tell the people I So, not only do I have a seat on the crazy teach in my train, I am officially driving it. I pulled the classes about trigger and signed up for another marathon perseverance less than a month after I finished Boston, in and encourage an effort to re-qualify and get back to Boston them to keep next year. Crazy? Yes, without a shadow-of-agoing — doubt, but I was trained and ready and would taking for rather do it now than in September when it is granted more likely to be hot and humid. By the time how easily this column is published, that marathon will exercise be under my belt and I’ll know whether I get comes to to go back for a “do-over.” me. I tell my children I’m not sure what possesses me to do this. never to give I don’t know when I will ever stop striving for more or when I will ever be content. The up and that truth is, I don’t know that I ever will be and, they need to work hard both quite honestly, I don’t know that I ever want to be. at school and their activities. It was time for me to lead by example not just on how to win, but how to fall down with Michelle Stien and get back up. Apparently I needed a • Michelle is a mom, freelance gut check. I needed to be humbled and writer, group fitness instructor and motivational speaker. She knocked down so I could add another also fits in marathon running, cochapter to my story. Two chapters ordinating 5k events, volunteers and keeps the Stien household actually. One about falling down and running like a fine-tuned fighting tooth and nail to machine ... most of the time. To finish and another inquire about speaking for your group or organization, contact about what I her at mstien77@gmail.com or decided to do visit 1motivatedmommy.com next.

1 Motivated Mommy

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FAMILY IN FOCUS

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Take A Load Off Explore these budget-friendly ways to create relaxing spaces right at your own home.

Photo provided by Brad Beller Construction

By DANA McKENNA ummertime brings longer days and warmer weather well into the evening hours, just begging you to relish the season. From the simplicity of adding a hammock in your backyard or comfy new outdoor furniture on your patio, extending your dining area, choosing a fire pit for those crisp autumn evenings, building a deck or patio, or adding a

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Photo provided by Northwestern Sunrooms

whole new three- or four-season room, there are ideas suited to every budget to help you enjoy the outdoors to its fullest extent right at home. Pergolas, gazebos and arbors are wonderful ways to add interest to an outdoor area, creating al fresco living in comfort. They enhance your surroundings while providing a cool, shaded refuge. Grow vines or ivy over a pergola to create an especially intimate ambience. Gazebos can be built to hold a dining table and chairs, a hot tub, or spa. And arbors are a lovely way of

DINING & ENTERTAINING

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Photo provided by Northwestern Sunrooms

inviting your guests into your yard or a garden area. Family and friends can relax, cook out, visit and play on a patio that flows naturally from your house into your yard, becoming an inviting extension of your living room. Whether you use concrete, stamped concrete, pavers, stone, or slate, there are great ideas to fit any budget. And, if you’re considering adding a hot tub or spa, you should know that a patio can usually hold more weight than a deck.

the rooms for large screen TVs and speakers as well. “All our screened porches and other enclosed rooms are designed by an architect we have on board, and we have a team of highly skilled contractors to make your ideas a reality. Whether you’re considering a screened room, 3-season room, a home addition, basement finishing, or a room remodel, we have decades of experience when it comes to renovations and construction, so we get the job done, and do it

4 Continued on next page

Also well-suited for extending living space to the outdoors, decks can be the perfect place to host parties, gatherings with friends and hold family cookouts. They also are an ideal way to improve the use of space around a pool. Deck designs are extremely flexible for various types of yards, and can maximize space usage even if there is a slope in the yard. Brad Beller, of Brad F. Beller Construction, Inc., says many veteran deck owners decide to take the next step and screen in their existing deck. “We all wait so long for spring and summer here in Illinois, and when it finally arrives, we want to enjoy it every moment we can,” says Beller. “Screened decks are one of the most requested jobs we do.” He goes on to say that his company quite often is asked to wire n w h e r a l d . c o m /m a g a z i n e

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Photo provided by Brad Beller Construction DINING & ENTERTAINING

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Photo provided by Brad Beller Construction

Photo provided by Northwestern Sunrooms

right the first time with quality materials.” Sunrooms and enclosed porches share many similarities. They can be enjoyed even when weather conditions are less than desirable. Northwestern Sunrooms, LLC in Crystal Lake is where many of these dream projects take shape. Dayne Van Arsdale, Northwestern Sunrooms Team Member says, “Our rooms are custom designed to match your lifestyle needs. Whether you want to create a tranquil retreat within your home or an elegant living space to entertain guests, we work with you every step of the way.” Accodring to Van Arsdale enclosed porches are designed for use throughout the year, and are commonly referred to as three- or fourseason rooms. They can feature fully insulated walls, ceilings, windows and doors. Northwestern Sunrooms offers many features for sunrooms and enclosed porches, but perhaps most notable is a window design called a “Vertical 4-Track Window” which allows the flexibility of sliding four panes up, down, or to the middle. “Style, safety, and flexible designs are the cornerstones of our WeatherMaster Window Systems,” says Van Arsdale. “You have the versatility to color match your new sunroom with the existing exterior of your home, and they combine the open feeling of a screened room and the comfort and convenience of an enclosed porch.” Benefits abound in creating any outdoor living space, including adding value to your home, increasing the visual appearance for your property overall and creating additional living space. But the most important benefit is the hours of enjoyment and relaxation you and your family will have — right at home.

Brad F. Beller Construction, Inc. BradBellerConstruction.com • 815-455-8051

Northwestern Sunrooms NorthwesternSunrooms.com • 815- 459-9078

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DINING & ENTERTAINING

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Colorful

Containers

By DANA McKENNA

ere in the Midwestern plains, it can be difficult to know what will thrive in a garden each summer. It could be a cold and wet season, or a hot and parched one. Container gardens are easy to adapt and care for during any kind of weather. They also add color and pizzazz to decks, balconies, walkways, window ledges and even lawn gardens themselves.

Sitter sometimes enjoys adding whimsy to her designs. “Themed container gardens have experienced a resurgence in popularity over the last several years,” she says. “They’ve earned the moniker ‘fairy gardens,’ and indeed some people plant them with garden sprites hidden among the plants. But, the term actually refers to the scale of the garden, as in ‘little.’”

creates holes big enough for water to drain, but not so big that you’ll lose substantial amounts of soil. If you are using ceramics for pots, you’ll actually need to drill holes. And, if the container has any wide openings, you can line the bottom and sides with moss or plastic to hold the soil in (just remember to punch holes in the plastic at the bottom for drainage).

Drainage holes are imperative for all containers because you don’t want your plants to drown. Sitter explains that tapping a nail through several spots along the bottom

Next, fill in the bottom of your container with river rocks, or even old Styrofoam peanuts (these are not biodegradable). If you have a deep container, reuse old water bottles or even milk jugs to fill some space, then cover this filler material with a sheet of burlap or landscape cloth. Next comes a good potting soil with the nutrients and airiness plants need to thrive.

But where do you start? “If it can hold soil, it can be a garden container,” says Anastasia Sitter, Sales and Landscape Designer at Whispering Hills Garden and Landscape Center in Cary. Her nickname there is “Dirt Diva” and one of her favorite projects is creating container gardens. “Don’t limit your thinking: use wheelbarrows, rubber boots, old watering cans, baskets, buckets, teacups, colanders, old toys — the list is only as endless as your imagination,” she says. 32 | JUNE 2016 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

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Photo courtesy of Whispering Hills Garden and Landscape Center

“Now you need to decide whether you want a full-sun, partial-sun, or shade planter,” Sitter says. “That will dictate what plants you should look at.” Some plants she recommends for Illinoisan summers are bidens, lantana, “Super Wave” petunias, sun coleus, Russian sage, coneflowers, morning glories, sweet peas and herbs. “Vegetables, fruits, and herbs also make great

HOME & LIFESTYLE

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container gardens, adding texture, color, scent, and usefulness all at the same time.” Fruit-bearing plants that thrive in containers are Alpine strawberries, dwarf mulberries, Glencoe raspberries, figs, and even violas for edible additions to salads, drinks, and desserts. Sitter uses a planting “formula” of Thriller – Filler – Spiller. The thriller is a taller plant, with color or texture that differs from the rest of the pot. Filler plants are how you bring in color. And spillers are trailing plants that will tumble over the sides, adding interest to the container. Sitter says container gardens can be used year-round, not just spring and summer. Autumn in Illinois brings its own share of colorful bounty in late-season plants and vegetables, and winter planters feature gorgeous greenery and colorful berries. Adding a trellis to a large pot opens the door to adding extra height to any container garden. “In the end, container gardens should make you happy when you look at them. I love my job because I get to help my customers create a little happiness.”

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Lovely, Lasting Ground Cover U

seful and versatile additions to any landscape, ground cover spreads rapidly, hugs the ground, and creates a lush, beautiful carpet. These plants can fill in trouble areas, are lowmaintenance, and help control weeds. On steep slopes, they hold the soil in place, preventing runoff. Many are perfect for planting between stepping stones or paving bricks, along walks, or to delineate garden walkways. Theresa Harm, of Harms Farm and Garden Center in McHenry, suggests these hardy ground covers for northern Illinois gardens:

HOME & LIFESTYLE

“For sunny spots, you can’t go wrong with vinca minor with its stunning blue-purple flowers. Sedum is also a great option for sun and does well in rock gardens. For shady areas, pachysandra is always a winner. If you’re looking for something more unusual, creeping thyme is a lovely, fragrant choice. It can grow to about four to six inches tall, but there is also a dwarf version that grows half as tall, but maintains the same scent.”

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Quaint Life Lessons Paint Suran Built puts the finishing touch on your home’s walls

By STEPHANIE N. GRIMOLDBY

ou’ve heard the phrase, “it’s like watching paint dry.” That means boring. Boring, boring, boring.

But paint doesn’t have to be — in fact, it shouldn’t be — boring, says Kamil Suran, owner of Suran Built in Crystal Lake. “If you have any kind of a [home] project — a beautiful kitchen, beautiful bathroom — the painting is the last touch on any project,” Suran says. “It would be nice to have people understand that painting is crucial … it’s the icing on the cake. “And exterior painting? [It’s about] how you protect your castle. Everyone has their own little castle. Two thousand years ago, [people] protected their castle against invaders. It’s a different age, but we still need to protect the castle so the weather doesn’t break down the home.” Didn’t realize paint was so important, did you? n34 w h| eJUNE r a l d2016 . c o|mMCHENRY /m a g a zCOUNTY ine MAGAZINE

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Suran does. In fact, Suran Built started as a painting business, then gradually transformed into the custom home remodeling company it is today. Painting is still a service offered to clients because Suran’s team takes care of every detail in a remodeling project — including construction, plumbing, electrical work and even roofing — and they top it off with a professional paint job. “If you want to have a successful remodel at the HOME & LIFESTYLE

end … to make beautiful homes, you have to have really quality painters,” Suran says. “It’s even more crucial than back years ago … . [As] we are getting into high-end, custom jobs more and more, you cannot let the final touch of the project have any imperfections.”

PICTURE PERFECT PAINT Dawn and John Goerger recently moved from Crystal Lake to Lake in the Hills.

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Their former 25-year-old house was big in all the wrong ways: the big two-story sat on a big lot that required big-time maintenance and needed a big remodel.

was there,” she says. “I’ve had some workmen who have been in my house, and you come home and you go, ‘Really? You washed your paint brushes, could you not wash the paint out of my sink?’”

When the couple decided to find a more functional home, they chose a new construction duplex in the Lakes of Boulder Ridge community.

Plus, the painters didn’t use a dirty, reused tarp from the floor of their van to cover Goerger’s floors or furniture. Instead, they used a clean roll of plastic and threw it away when they were done, so Goerger had no concerns about germs or allergens.

The new ranch was just right for the Goergers, but it came with plain builder-grade paint colors. And though they could have paid the builder to repaint, Dawn Goerger was planning on revamping her furniture during the move, so she didn’t want to choose paint colors until she had her new items in place.

Finally, the job came out beautifully.

Photos by Caplan Studios

With the help of Suran Built’s awardwinning design consultant, Radka Sumberova, Goerger chose four colors for the entire house, but she had them applied in different shades. Her great room is the same color as one of the bedrooms, but at a 25 percent lighter shade, which creates a cohesive look.

Goerger has helped Suran Built with client relations for several years, but even if she didn’t work for his company, she would have been familiar with Suran, she says.

“I picked some of them out, but Radka helped select the others,” Goerger says. “I’ve often referred to her as the paint whisperer. She is excellent with paint selection.

“I have many friends who have used him,” she says. “I would have known of him anyway because of the reputation [he has] in the community.”

“I wanted the house to be current, but cozy. Grays are very current, but sometimes the grays can be a little cold. So, I went with more of the beige grays. And we used … paints with a zero VOC, so there was not a lot of chemical smell. By that night, you didn’t have any paint smell.”

When the time came to paint her new home, Goerger learned what it was like to be on the receiving end of Suran Built customer service — and it was nothing short of fantastic, she says. First, communication was great. “They gave me a time frame in advance so I knew when my schedule in my house would be disrupted, so it wasn’t a surprise to me that, oh, they’re here for seven days, and I thought it would be two days,” she says.

“It’s beautiful,” she says. “I’ve had friends … who have told me it looks like a model home. So, I take pride in that.” While many companies could have done a nice job, Suran Built provided quality workmanship and a personalized relationship, Goerger says.

Second, the professionalism of the two painters — who have nearly 40 years of combined experience — was second to none.

“Kamil truly cares about his clients,” Goerger says. “I see both sides of it. He will do whatever he needs to do to make the client feel satisfied with the job that we’ve done for them.”

“[They’re] neat, in the fact that they leave your house and you wouldn’t have known anyone

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HOME & LIFESTYLE

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10 THINGS

woodwork, use satin, semigloss or gloss. Semigloss also is good for closets and pantries because it is very easy to clean.

to consider when painting

What color will look best?

Painting is one of the easiest — and most costeffective — ways to remodel your home. With that in mind, Suran Built’s Radka Sumberova, “the paint whisperer,” shares 10 things to consider when contemplating a paint job.

What is your goal? Are you painting for yourself, or are you planning to sell your home? If you’re putting your house on the market, you might not need the highest quality paint, but choose colors that appeal to the majority of buyers. If you’re painting for yourself, you have true freedom of expression.

What are you painting? Are you tackling the exterior or interior? What type of surface are you painting: wood, drywall or plaster? Understanding your surface type and its location will help you choose proper paint. Hint: Never use interior paint on the exterior of your house. It will not last.

5 Dawn Goerger and Radka Sumberova review color swatches in Goerger’s home.

Don’t become overwhelmed with the multitude of options. Ask your local paint store for popular colors if you need a starting point. Play with color chips; look at them in your room in different light conditions. I like to choose colors on a rainy day because it helps me determine whether I’ll enjoy that room color when it’s gloomy. If you are painting one room of your house, make sure the color blends with the rest of your home. If you are painting the exterior and want to make a statement, find a way to do it without intruding on your neighbors. Many paint stores have color charts that suggest color combinations for exteriors with accent colors for doors and shutters. Finally, pay attention to your mood when choosing colors — they affect how we feel. Red tones are energizing; blues are calming and cooling; yellow can improve our appetites.

Who’s going to paint?

Did you properly prepare your surface? Even if you use the best quality paint, if you don’t prepare your surface properly, you will be disappointed with the end result. Survey your surface for peeling paint, cracks, leaks, dents or mold and fix any issues. Use appropriate products for interior and exterior jobs. Let everything dry properly, including patches, caulk, primers, etc. And remember to use a good cover — you don’t want to find paint spots all over your furniture and floor.

Do you have the right tools for the job? There are many brushes, rollers and other painting tools available, but not all of them work well with all paints. Ask professionals which tools work best with your paint selections. Also, do you have ladders to reach tall areas? If you need to fix cracks, do you have a putty knife and sanding blocks? Have the proper tools ready ahead of time to eliminate back-and-forth trips to the store.

Have you considered environmental factors? Many paint options have low volatile organic compounds (VOC) or even zero VOC. Some people are sensitive to the chemicals in paint products and benefit from using low VOC paint, but everyone can benefit from using a healthier option for the environment. 36 | JUNE 2016 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

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3 Slawek Prokop and Kamil Suran examine an interior painting project.

Are you trying to skimp on quality? A wise man once said, “Saving money on paint is not saving money on paint.” I couldn’t agree more. We’ve used exterior paint products that still look good 10 years after application. And we have seen homes that had peeling paint after two seasons. It is worth investing in a good, quality paint.

If you’re tackling the job, allow yourself enough time to complete the task, including preparation. If you are hiring, find a trustworthy contractor you’re comfortable around because, depending on the size of your project, painters will be in your personal space for several days. The last thing you need is to worry about your property or personal comfort. Ask for referrals. Talk to your friends. Trust your intuition.

Would I benefit from professional help? Can’t decide between DIY or calling in the cavalry? Here are some good reasons to hire a professional: • Professionals have the right tools to complete the job correctly in a shorter amount of time. • They know their products and how to apply them for the best result.

What level of sheen do you need?

• They will save you from backaches, neck aches and the dangers of falling off ladders.

Non-reflective flat paint is ideal for walls that have had multiple repairs. It’s also good for areas not exposed to splatter or hand traffic, like office rooms, bedrooms and living rooms. Eggshell or satin is best for hallways, bathrooms and kitchens because both easily can be cleaned, though they’re harder to touch up if you get a ding. For trim/

• They will free up your weekend for other activities.

HOME & LIFESTYLE

• They will help you choose paint and color options best suited for your project. • You will have a beautifully completed project without the sweat and pain. n w h e r a l d . c o m /m a g a z i n e

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Apartment Style Living

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Ideas For Dad I

don’t know about you, but in my household, Dad was always the hardest person to shop for — for birthdays, Christmas, and especially Father’s Day. My poor father has seen enough ties and portable tool sets to last a lifetime. If you’re struggling with an ideal gift for your Pop, check out these titles for inspiration!

Can I Sit on Your Lap While You’re Pooping?: Actual Quotes from an Actual Toddler to Her Actual Dad | by Matthew Carroll Father’s Day can’t be celebrated without a little humor! Matthew Carroll penned this little gem after hearing his daughter, Morgan, say things that made him laugh out loud, and started recording them on his iPhone. This book is the result of his collected conversations! This little treat of a gift book makes for hilarious conversations at the dinner table. I love books that spark nostalgic conversations. This book may highlight one man’s experience, but it will surely invite your own inside jokes and “Do you remember when?” moments And don’t worry, despite the bathroom-inspired title, the contents are quite tame.

The Old-Fashioned: The Story of the World’s First Classic Cocktail, with Recipes and Lore | by Robert Simonson The epitome of masculine and cool, the iconic symbol of Don Draper on Mad Men. Dads will love this recipe book, complete with historical information about the cocktail’s inception and ongoing history. This book makes a nice companion for an artisanal home bar. Want to add a little something special? Take a glance at the recipes, find your dad’s likely favorite, and gather the ingredients to form the cocktail. Add a muddler and some nice glasses and you’re good to go!

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HOME & LIFESTYLE

Jaws | by Peter Benchley What better way to start off summer than with this classic book? The film equivalent is known for its terror-inducing attack scenes and rumbling musical score, but the book provides a fascinating look at small town politics and family drama. If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, head to your local used bookstore to see if you can find an edition from the ’70s when the book was published. Pair this with the DVD or a movie poster and you’re set!

Book Nook with Sandra Manley

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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SUMMER reading

ot all good reads about relationships focus on the romantic. In Emily Giffin’s latest book (an author for whose novels I wait with baited breath), Josie and Meredith Garland are sisters who struggle to comes to terms with a family tragedy that happened 15 years earlier. Over the years, both have nourished their strikingly dissimilar personalities — one relishes in the neat and orderly, the other more inclined toward dramatic flair and chaos. Prior tragedy is not the only focal point in this story. Each sister must explore her own personal issues — one in her marriage, the other with her desire for motherhood without a mate. Will they finally learn to lean on each other, or are they just too different? Is it possible to appreciate a sibling’s differences, or do you have to be like-minded to have a happy, functional relationship? Like Giffin’s other novels, I gobbled this up within a few days. It’s the perfect start to your summer reading! Ms. Giffin will be doing book signings in both Chicago and Naperville this July! For more information, visit www.emilygiffin.com/appearances/

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McHenry County Magazine

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For a home or workplace that is beautiful, functional and inspired, call Randi Goodman, IFDA, “designer extraordinaire.” Now is a great time to spruce up your space. Randi makes the best use of furnishings and accessories you already have. She can suggest additional pieces, or start from scratch. The choice is yours! Custom or ready made, she can do it all! Call today for a personal consultation.

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Located in Downtown Cary, Kitchens by Julie is a family owned and operated organization that has extensive experience in all aspects of remodeling and construction. “Every successful project is a unique reﬂection of personal tastes, functions, lifestyle, budget and dreams,” says principal designer, Julie Loehner, CKD who operates Kitchens by Julie with her husband and project manager, Mark Loehner. Our goal is to create a wonderful experience designing and building your dream from conception to completion.

To have your business included in this guide, contact your representative at 815-459-4040. n w h e r a l d . c o m /m a g a z i n e

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Guy’s Grooming Guide

en take center stage in the month of June because of Father’s Day. With that in mind, Pepper Annex has some tips on how men can deal with hair problems like greasiness, breakage and product build-up, as well as what’s the best way to tackle thinning hair: Switch to matte products if you’re thinning For many men, hair thins out as they hit their 30s and 40s. To make it look thicker and more manageable, use a matte styling paste or clay. Matte products absorb light and instantly make hair appear a little thicker. Apply shampoo to dry hair to remove wax Do you use hair wax but struggle to get it out of your hair? Apply shampoo directly to dry hair and rinse, and then follow this with another application of shampoo. This method helps break down the product and leave hair clean. Avoid over-washing A common mistake men with dry or coarse hair make is over-washing it. If you

have dry or coarse hair, limit washing to once or twice a week and always apply a conditioner. Every day washing will just dry out your hair. Reduce washing, use a conditioner and you will have smoother, healthier looking hair. Don’t mess around with greasy hair Have greasy hair? Avoid using hot water and don’t scrub and rub your shampoo like a madman; it only activates oil producing sebaceous glands that are already overactive. Avoid messing around with your hair; over-combing and overstyling can make matters worse. Choose water-soluble gels and sprays that will hold your style and have a slight drying effect on hair. Remember, a little product goes a long way to avoiding a heavy, greasy appearance.

Forget the comb-over Ahhh, the comb over! It’s an interesting (but not appealing) way for balding men in their 50s, 60s and 70s to cover up a bald spot. If you’re losing your hair, a short, cropped style is really the best option. Keeping it shorter at the sides and longer on the top draws attention away from the thinning areas. To achieve this affect, grow the top, thinner, hair just slightly longer than the sides and the hair will be very short at the base of your neck. The slightly longer hair on top could then be brushed back and fall over the shorter (but thicker) hair on the sides and back. Product can help volumize this look and keep it in place.

RELAX! Hair is only as good as your scalp, so you Pat dry, don’t rub should take care of it. Regular stress can Do you think the harder you rub your hair after washing, the quicker it will dry? tighten the scalp and cause hair thinning. Think again. That over-zealous towel To de-stress and boost circulation to your drying technique will just cause breakage. scalp (ensuring healthy hair growth) think Hair tends to be weaker when wet and about getting regular, stimulating head more prone to damage. Bad news if your massages. If your hair stylist does this as hair already isn’t quite as thick as it used to be. Pat your hair dry to avoid putting extra part of your usual haircut treatment, all the better! stress on it.

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with Pepper Annex

• Cutting Edge hair cuts, hair care and hair color at Pepper Annex Hair Salon & Dry Bar, 1295 Randall Road Suite 111, Crystal Lake, IL, 60014. PepperAnnex.com 815-893-0849

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FASHION & BEAUTY

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Time For A Change Current statistics from the Centers for Disease Control state the following reality kids today face:

Which brings about another root issue and question my practice gets asked all the time: Are the drugs really getting to the root cause of these issues, or are they merely covering up the effects (symptoms)?

After nearly a decade of clinical experience caring for kids with chronic neurological and immune challenges, it’s rare that a child “grows out of it.” More commonly, it simply changes form.

8.6 percent of kids struggle with asthma 11 percent are diagnosed with ADHD 1 in 6 kids have developmental disabilities 40 percent suffer from allergies 1 in 68 are diagnosed with autism and that number is rising fast

Got a fever? Take aspirin to bring it down. Can’t sit still and concentrate? Take a stimulant medication.

Colic and reflux issues in a newborn often become chronic ear infections and respiratory challenges.

Thankfully, parents of this generation are starting to wake up and ask questions like: Why is it so bad now, compared to when I grew up? What is causing all these issues to explode? And perhaps the most important question — what is being done about it? Let’s start by answering that last question first. Truthfully, what’s being done are many of the same things we’ve tried for decades, and they’re not working very well. In short, more kids than ever get diagnosed with these conditions, and in turn more kids than ever are being prescribed drugs to treat them.

Here’s the reality we face today as parents: We have the most incredible health care system in the world when it comes to life-saving, crisis and emergency intervention. But we have perhaps the most inadequate and expensive system in the world when it comes to helping kids with chronic health challenges and disabilities. Our current system has always been focused on symptom treatment instead of system repair. If a child struggles with challenges such as autism, ADHD and sensory processing disorder, what they really need is evaluation and care of their central nervous system, the place where those challenges are rooted. Chronic immune and gut issues should be dealt with by improving the function of those systems themselves. We need to make these systems work better by “boosting” them rather than taking drugs that do the job for them. The common thing parents are still told today is that kids will “grow out of it” in time. That’s another thing that must absolutely change.

Frequent ear and sinus infections, with frequent antibiotic use, turns into allergies and asthma. For seven years, my practice has referred to all this as the “perfect storm” and it has to change. If we keep taking the same path with pediatric and family health care and lifestyle, we’ll keep getting the same results. These issues are on the rise, certainly not on the decline. In order to turn them around and head in the right direction, we need to strongly consider taking another direction with our health care choices. Often times when parents call our practice for help, they tell us we are their “last resort” and “last hope” for their child. They’ve been everywhere — the pediatrician, neurologist, ENT, immunologist, geneticist, numerous hospitals, etc. And most times we are the first place that gives them what they’ve been seeking all along — real answers and explanations regarding what’s causing their child’s chronic health issues, and then most importantly, options for care that are drug-free and effective. If your child struggles with health challenges of any sort, or if your goal is never to have them go down that road, consider consulting a trained Pediatric and Family Chiropractor first, not last. It just may be what changes your life.

Building Health From Within with Dr. Anthony Ebel

Dr. Ebel is a Certified Pediatric Chiropractor with Premier Wellness Chiropractic in Crystal Lake, and nationally known expert on pediatrics.

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HEALTH & & WELLNESS WELLNESS HEALTH

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The Importance Of Family Meetings

ver the course of the last 17 years I’ve been with DorionGray Retirement Planning, I’ve witnessed numerous life changing events in the lives of our clients. Many of these events had an impact on family members but none more so than the loss of a loved one.

discussing and those topics you do not want to discuss. • Ability to communicate location of important documents such as: checking, savings, investments and insurance policies. • Sharing of how the will, trusts and insurance policies are structured. • Discussion on living wills and health care Discussing the inevitable passing of your powers of attorney so the family is clear on wealth is often a difficult conversation for families but is crucial for your family wealth plan. Periodic family meetings can go a long way to making the transition smoother for your beneficiaries. The ultra-wealthy have long held family meetings to discuss sustaining your wealth and their philanthropic endeavors, and you don’t have to have enormous wealth to benefit from involving your family in the planning process. Family Meetings can help the head of the family: • Communicate their wishes to their children prior to them passing or becoming incapacitated. • Overcome the reluctance to talk about family money or difficult estate planning issues. • Clarify the components of assets, insurance, wills and trusts. • Discuss how assets such as second homes and heirlooms will be distributed. • Reduce potential for family disagreements over inheritances. • Discuss the client’s health care directives and end of life choices. • Discuss funeral and burial/cremation wishes. A formal family meeting, facilitated by a professional, provides a comfortable structure to share and discuss the plans put into place well before they are needed. The Family Meeting should consist of: • Reviewing the topics you are comfortable

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any end of life choices already made, including funeral and long-term care arrangements. • Introduce younger generations to financial planning, goal setting and financial advice. • Introduce clients’ children to other professionals who will help carry out their parents’ wishes. Family meetings should be held once every few years, and typically involve your spouse, children, grandchildren (if they are old enough), children’s spouses (who often have substantial influences on your heirs), other relatives and other professionals they work with FINANCIAL

in the process. While family meetings are not democracies, they are an excellent opportunity for heads of the family to hear feedback and possibly refine their estate plan if necessary. Creating a lasting legacy means helping your family learn how to manage the considerable responsibility that comes with wealth, while maintaining an appreciation of shared values. It is important to talk to a professional who can help develop strategies to successfully sustain your net worth across successive generations. Jim Davids is President of Dorion-Gray Retirement Planning, Inc. located at 2602 IL Route 176, Crystal Lake Il 60014-2225. Securities offered through Securities America, Inc. Member FINRA/ SIPC. Advisory services offered through Securities America Advisors, Inc. Dorion-Gray 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.

Money Matters

with James Davids, MBA • President, Chief Investment Officer, Jim has been at Dorion-Gray for 17 years. All of it spent as a Portfolio Manager for the firm’s advisory models. Jim added the title of President in January 2014. Jim’s hobbies include golf, downhill skiing, competing in marathons and triathlons, and mainly spending time with his family. He and his wife Lisa reside in Crystal Lake with their five children.

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Photo by From Me 2 You Photography

Putting Parks First

Ann Viger enjoys working with the public and her peers to see a project to completion.

By MELISSA RUBALCABA RISKE

hether it is a walk under the canopy of trees or onto a ball field or playground, setting out in a Crystal Lake park is a chance to see beauty and nature. Ann Viger is proud to have lent a hand in the design and function of each one of the community’s parks. For the last 24 years Viger has contributed to the community through her role as the director of planning and development for the Crystal Lake Park District. With her background in landscape architecture, she and her team at the park district continually find ways to enhance the community parks and the experiences for residents. “It’s a nice feeling knowing you’ve had an impact on all the parks,” Viger says.

One of the first Crystal Lake parks she worked on was her own neighborhood playground. As a new resident in a newly built subdivision, she participated in Operation Playground, a grass roots committee of residents to design and build a new playground. “We had more than 900 volunteers working on the park,” Viger says. “It was massively cool.” Viger says she enjoyed the community spirit working with neighbors to raise money for the playground and was proud of the result where her children and neighbors had a place to play. She had been working for several years with the Arlington Heights Park District when she had the opportunity to join the Crystal Lake Park District in 1992, allowing her to work close to home and be a part of her own community.

It’s a nice feeling knowing you’ve had an impact on all the parks.

She was a student at the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign when a professor encouraged her to consider landscape architecture, bringing out Viger’s interest in design and the outdoors. She found an outlet for her creativity and seeing how designs could improve a place and the experience for visitors. In working with a park district, Viger finds collaboration a key element, as she works with her team, the park district’s elected board members and residents, but this isn’t daunting to Viger who said she enjoys working with the public and her peers and taking each project step by step to completion.

Viger’s role in the community extends beyond her day job. Through the years she has served as a volunteer for several community organizations, including the Crystal Lake Chamber of Commerce, where today she is chairwoman of the Ambassador program. “I’ve really enjoyed the Crystal Lake Chamber of Commerce and met a lot of people I would have never have otherwise known,” Viger says. She lends her time and experience to several professional organizations in Illinois as well as nationally, and says she really enjoys meeting with her peers and sharing experiences and advice. She also has a love of history and enjoys the

of WOMEN distinction ANN VIGER Crystal Lake Park District

park district’s collaboration with the Crystal Lake Historical Society and the maintenance of the Colonel Palmer House where the historical society and park district collaborate on programming for the community. Viger is the vice president of the Crystal Lake Historical Society and works closely with long-time friend Diana Kenney, the president of the historical society. “[Ann is] always looking for ways to take a fresh approach,” Kenney says. Kenney says she admires Viger’s work and her ability to blend the beauty of nature with the functionality of buildings and other structures on the park land. For Viger, it is the rewards of seeing others enjoy what she has lent a hand in creating. “Even something simple, like resurfacing a tennis court, may seem mundane, but to go by and see people using it — this is exactly why we did it and it is very rewarding,” Viger says.

2016 Sponsors

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WOMEN OF DISTINCTION 2016

In May, McHenry County Magazine hosted its 4th annual Women of Distinction awards luncheon honoring 11 recipients from McHenry County who have been representative role models and leaders in their fields and communities. Honorees were chosen from nominations submitted by community leaders, local business professionals and the readership of McHenry County Magazine.

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BUSINESS & CIVIC

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1114 N. Green St., McHenry Come with family and friends to visit and taste from participating downtown food and beverage establishments. Try everything from pizza, sliders JUNE 24: WORLD’S LARGEST SWIM LESSON, 10 and sandwiches to breakfast, beers and cupcakes. a.m. - 11 a.m., Main Beach, 300 Lake Shore Drive, Specials and discounts at downtown shops and Crystal Lake Join thousands of kids and families at aquatic facilities businesses. $1-$3 per taste at local establishments. For more information, call 815-385-4372. and waterparks around the globe for The World’s Largest Swimming Lessons. We’re making a huge JUNE 18: HOOKED ON FISHING, 9 a.m. - Noon, Rush splash to spread the word that swimming lessons Creek Conservation Area, 20501 McGuire Rd., Harvard save lives. Don’t miss your chance to participate Bring the whole family for demonstrations, prizes JUNE 12: 16TH ANNUAL PAWS IN THE PARK WALK in the seventh annual WLSL event to help prevent and more. No license needed, as the event is held & PET FEST, 10 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., Emricson Park, 900 drowning, the second leading cause of injuryduring Illinois Free Fishing Days. Bring your own gear W. South St., Woodstock related death of children ages 1-14. No Registration or borrow ours. Children get first preference on poles. Early registration is $30; event-day registration is Necessary. For more information, call 815-459-0680. Adult supervision of children is required. Registration $40. Enjoy a 1-mile walk at Emricson Park with your preferred 815-479-5779 or online at MCCDistrict.org. JUNE 12: 2016 HERITAGE TROLLEY TOUR OF favorite canines. After the walk, spend some time CRYSTAL LAKE, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m., Downtown Crystal JUNE 20: STAND UP PADDLE BOARD RACE, 5:30 at the Pet Fest enjoying contests and games, petLake Gazebo, 70 E. Woodstock St., Crystal Lake p.m., Indian Trail Beach, 228 Indian Trail, Lake in the friendly shopping, pet blessings, raffles and more. Every year the Crystal Lake Historic Preservation Hills There will be food and drinks available for purchase. Commission creates a new trolley tour highlighting One of the best ways to get on the water this summer For more details and to register online, go to http:// local history. The trolley will visit the neighborhoods is to “SUP” or Stand Up Paddleboard — basically helpingpaws.net/event/paws-in-the-park-walkaround the original 1840 village of Crystal Lake. The paddling big surfboard style boards while standing up. pet-fest/. Includes event T-shirt and goody bag. All tour will highlight the historic details of buildings as Join us for our first Woods Creek Lake SUP Cup Race. proceeds benefit Helping Paws. well as personal stories about their owners, builders, This event is family-friendly and open to all ages. PreJUNE 19: LAKE IN THE HILLS TRIATHLON, 6:30 and the community. Timed, round-trip tickets are now registration is required and taken only online. a.m. - 10 a.m., Ken Carpenter Park (corner of Randall & available for $12 at Heisler s Bootery, 50 N. Williams JUNE 24: 4TH FRIDAYS, 6 p.m.-9 p.m., The Starline, Miller), Lake in the Hills St. On the day of the tour, any remaining tickets will 306 Front St., Harvard Can you do 20 on 6/19/16? This local event is great be available for $15 at the downtown Crystal Lake 4th Fridays at The Starline is held nine times a year for beginners and elite athletes. The course consists gazebo. Participants will receive a keepsake tour book on the 4th Friday of the month. It is a juried art show of a .5 mile swim, 15.5 mile bike and a 4 mile run. with articles and vintage photographs. Questions? with live music, appetizers and beverages. For more Registration is online at www.raceentry.com/raceCall 815-479-0835. information, visit www.NancyMerkling.com. reviews/lake-in-the-hills-triathlon and is limited to the JUNE 12: TASTE OF SUMMER, 1 p.m. - 4:30 p.m., first 400 registrants. Questions? Contact the Race Directors: Shane Firsching, 309-397-9621 or Matt Kidd, 330-401-6534

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OUT & ABOUT

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artist profile

J.F. Bolet Lake in the Hills “SHADOWS ON A WALL” Ink on paper 50 | JUNE 2016 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

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I saw this magnificent scene on a wall in Vernon, CA. The light was orange and the gentle breeze made the shadows dance as if they were a part of an animated film. I took a photo and kept it for a while, until I decided to do this with ink on paper. My drawings explore my interest in conveying mood and the relationship between subject matter and what seems essential about the subject itself

Award-winning artist and author J. F. Bolet is a successful Latin American artist whose work has been shown in both Venezuela and the U.S. Bolet graduated from the Escuela de Artes Visuales Cristobal Rojas in Venezuela, and continued his education in cartoons, graphic design, illustration, philosophy and philosophy of the arts at the Universidad Central de Venezuela, Caracas. He is the author of “Rendering in Black, 25 drawings across the U.S.”

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.”

OUT & ABOUT

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Come experience it for yourself! Learn more at: www.PremierWellnessChiro.com OUT & ABOUT

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