Issuu

OCTOBER 2013

Image Renewed Trick or Treat!

Great costumes for Halloween have arrived. Find whatâ€™s hot for your little goblins. pg 20

Bull Valley boutique builds confidence through compassion for women with cancer

Money Matters

Hold onto more, protect it better and get your kids saving, too! pg 12

415 S. Main St. Crystal Lake, IL 60014

815-444-8065

41 N. Williams St. • Historic Downtown Crystal Lake 815.455.3600 • DalzellJewelers.com

INSIDE 9 St. Paul’s gets crafty: This four decade-old artisan fair brings a variety of artists, crafters and vendors together, just in time for holiday shopping!

Money 12 The ghosts in the machine: Protect your finances from high-tech swindlers at ATMS and online. 15 Sticker-dicker: Everything has its price, but if you’re not trying to negotiate, experts say you could be losing money.

Family in Focus

As wine continues to grow in popularity wineries are struggling with how to get their product recognized. But no matter how good they look on the shelf, they have to taste great to make the cut.

More Than Just A Pretty Label

17 The Stepford Wife: Columnist Michelle Stien has discovered her alter ego, and a “scary” new blog, just in time for the Halloween holiday. 18 Young money: Life lessons come from more than school books. Find out how and when to teach your kids the importance of money management. 20 Trick or treat! Clever costumes, from flappers to fairy tales, and zombies to zoot suits, delight this Halloween. 23 Professional Profiles: Find experts from services across our communities, ready to help and advise.

Health & Fitness

28 Sense of self: Benchmark Atlantic Healthcare’s specialized boutique helps breast cancer patients through wisdom, compassion. 33 TUMMY TROUBLE?: Dr. Daniel Strelcheck Jr. says the health of your spine could be causing your digestive woes. 38 Healthy twists for a nutritious fall: The Autumn harvest abounds with colorful fruits and vegetables packed with good-for-you flavor! Bring them to the table with these tasty ideas.

Dining & Entertaining 41 Put a Fork in It: This month Dave Faccone takes questions from readers about bold bus boys, complicated coupons and making reservations.

Home & Lifestyle 46 WINDOWS TO THE WORLD: From shutters to shades, what covers your windows can change your view of the world around you.

Fashion & Beauty

50 Hands up! Trends in manicures include bold color combinations and twists on old favorites, but a classic French-tip remains the go-to style. 52 Deck your tech: Digital accessories, smartphones and more are getting fashionable upgrades and stylish new complements.

Out & About 53 Calendar: All the best our communities have to offer this month is at your fingertips. Our calendar will have you stepping out all over the area. 54 Artist Showcase: Crystal Lake artist Connie Sonnenberg offers her pastel piece, “Looking Glass.”

4 | OCTOBER 2013 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

mchenrycountymagazine.com

We talk a lot about money. How much we’ve got. How much we need. How we’ll spend it. In the October issue of McHenry County Magazine, we tilt the conversation toward holding onto the cash that helps keep life moving day to day. You’ll find tips for protecting yourself against fraud and theft. You’ll learn how haggling had become accepted in some areas of commerce while not in others, and why experts say you should hone those negotiation skills.

We debut our Dining & Entertainment section this month, offering a great combination of food and wine columnists, recipes and tips for entertaining, and looks at local dining trends. As always, the issue is full of events and entertainment. There are fall festivities and Halloween activities in Union. Free airplane rides for kids in Lake in the Hills. Live music abounds in in Crystal Lake and Woodstock. Whatever your pleasure, our towns have it covered. So take a break from the daily grind and enjoy the season, right here in McHenry County.

Preparing your kids for life means teaching them about both saving and spending, so we ask some folks “in the know” when youngsters should begin budgeting, earning an allowance, and saving for the big things.

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

Thanks for reading.

Sherri Dauskurdas Editor

But money isn’t everything, and in this important awareness month, we sat down to speak with the owners of a boutique-style service company in Bull Valley, helping women move on with their lives after battles with breast cancer. If you’re looking for help in other areas of like, our Professional Profiles section offers a great array of local services and business pros, from financial advisors and care professionals to photographers and educators.

Editor Sherri Dauskurdas 630-427-6209 sdauskurdas@shawmedia.com Designer Allison McCaleb 815-526-4485 amccaleb@shawmedia.com Correspondents Lee Nelson, Elizabeth Harmon, Jacky Runice, Erin Sauder, Amanda Marrazzo, Betsy Wilhelm Photographer Melissa Emory

on the

COVER

Cathy Boll started her Bull Valley boutique to help women battling breast cancer boost image and self esteem. The result is a special place for survivors, filled with compassion and friendship.

Page 28 Salon Services by Mario Tricoci Salons and Day Spas Photo by Melissa Emory Cover inset photo provided

6 | OCTOBER 2013 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

Magazine Publisher J. Tom Shaw jtshaw@shawmedia.com 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.

mchenrycountymagazine.com

Dr. Stephen Rivard (left) and Mary Kathryn Courtley (right).

“Before getting treatment at Illinois Vein Specialists, I thought that an open wound (leg ulcer) would just be a part of my life…and I would suffer in silence.”

�� into Illinois Vein Specialists to sell advertising for her local radio station, she would have never guessed her fortuitous encounter with Dr. Stephen Rivard would be such a blessing. Upon receiving a walk through of some of the procedures, Dr. Rivard noticed a small wound around her ankle and kindly asked if she would be willing to have an ultrasound of her legs. It was then that Dr. Rivard diagnosed her with varicose veins and promised that he could make her “venous leg ulcer” go away for good. Although Mary Kathryn was not completely reassured, as she heard many Doctors make similar promises before, she was wiling to try whatever possible solution was available to her. She recalls, “When I first got my ulcer I had no idea what it was. Naturally, I went to see my dermatologist, who took skin samples but could not determinethesourceoftheproblemandeventually referred me to another Doctor who tried to treat it topically. This went on for months with no hope, so I was then referred to a third Doctor, who performed painful scraping while wrapping the wound and prescribing medications to reduce the swelling. All of these attempts made the wound smaller, but it never really healed. After exhausting what I believed to be my only options for two years and spending thousands of dollars, including testing for diabetes and seeing a holistic medicine practitioner, I simply covered it up with Band-Aids and wrapped it with scarfs. I felt completely hopeless.”

WHAT ARE VENOUS LEG ULCERS? Unfortunately, Mary Kathryn’s story is no anomaly but rather a common problem amongst the

general population. Generally, venous ulcers are open wounds predominately occurring in the lower legs of people suffering from poor circulation, often caused by inefficient vein valves that have been stretched and break. Eventually, this causes the tissue to swell and break open. Although the prevalence of venous ulcers in the U.S. is around 1 million people, if the source of the ulceration is left untreated, venous ulcers can recur and persist from months to many years, having a significant impact on a patient’s quality of life.

WHY MOST DOCTORS AND PATIENTS ARE UNAWARE? A CHANGING PARADIGM For the past several decades, compression therapy has remained the most common standard of care for venous leg ulcers and chronic venous insufficiency. However, wound wraps and compression stockings along with alternative topical or oral treatments, while helpful to increase circulation and reduce the size of the wound, require lifelong commitments to maintain and are frequently insufficient to actually heal a venous leg ulcer in a timely and cost effective manner when unaccompanied by treatment at the source. Although treating a venous leg ulcer is somewhat common for Dr. Rivard at Illinois Vein Specialists, most other physicians and patients are unaware of the possibilities varicose vein treatment can have on the medical world. One of the reasons for this may be due to the fact that the practice of Phlebology (varicose and spider vein treatment) is the newest Board Certified sub-specialty in medicine (2008) with Dr. Rivard being of the first and limited few in Illinois. Mary Kathryn mentioned the fact that, “…Dr. Rivard was actually the first

Doctor in 2 years to call my wound an ‘ulcer’.” Dr. Rivard notes, “As I learned and began to understand the dynamic benefits of improving circulation through the treatment of chronic venous hypertension (varicose veins), I was both astonished and delighted to find how quickly leg ulcers could heal when treated at the source of the problem.” At IllinoisVeinSpecialists,Dr.Rivardemphasizes,“We have incorporated a broader mission not only to educate the general public on the implications of vein disease, but also other physicians so that they may better understand the possibilities for alternative treatments.”

A ROOM FOR HOPE AT IVS Mary-Kathryn recalls, “...there is barely a scar now and until I actually did it I didn’t realize how much of a difference the procedure could make on my life. That is why it is so important when I see other patients who suffer like I did to share my story of hope.” 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. A Center of Excellence

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Heart Artisans converge for 40th year of St. Paul Craft Fair I By Lauren Lynch I October brings cooler weather, fall colors, and an annual favorite — St. Paul’s Country Craft Fair. Now in its 40th season, St. Paul’s United Church of Christ in Crystal Lake will be bustling with artisans showcasing their work. Nearly 50 artisans in a vast array of genres, will converge at the Crystal Lake church, on Saturday, October 19. At no cost, fairgoers can peruse the church’s classrooms, converted into art havens where woodcarvers, knitters, quilters and jewelry makers congregate and share their passion. And while the official mission of the fair is to raise funds for the missions and ministries of the church, event organizer Karen Rodovich says the fair is an opportunity to form fellowship and develop relationships that may not have otherwise occurred. Aside from the perk of coming home with a handcrafted piece of work, attendees can try their luck by entering the raffle for only $1 per ticket (or six tickets for $5), for a chance to win a variety of prizes such as a handmade quilt and quilt rack, theater tickets, dinner certificates, and even a consultation on how to prepare a simple will with a lawyer ($150 value) donated from members and businesses in the community. The silent auction offers similar alluring prizes as well as some surprising ones. “We offer up services like giving people rides to the airport, overnight babysitting or we have someone that can bake cookies once a month for a year,” Rodivich says, adding: “It’s not just about offering gifts, but also time as well.” Spaces remain available to crafters and artisans interested in participating in the fair. With the number of booths totaling 52, eight are reserved for church member crafters while the remaining spaces are open for general members of the public to purchase for a fee of $55 ($50 if booked earlier than January 31st of each year). Spots for non-artisan vendors are limited. mchenrycountymagazine.com

&Craft

“Spots fill up quickly, however, so be sure to reserve as soon as you can,” Rodivich warns.

Paula Dammeyer: Jeweler

Paula Danmeyer uses a variety of metals such as nickel silver, sterling silver, copper and brass to create necklaces, earrings, bracelets and cuffs. The Johnsburg resident has been handcrafting jewelry for more than eight years, taking up the art after shifting her direction from beading to wire wrapping, metal work and fold-forming.

I wanted to create something you don't find around here often.

5(Above) A pendant hand-made by Paula Dammeyer. Photo provided

elegantlywired.net. “I just love coming up with new ideas and putting it together,” she says.

Andy Chappell: Woodcarver

— Paula Dammeyer, Johnsburg jeweler featured at St. Paul's Country Craft Fair

“I wanted to create something different,” she says excitedly. “I wanted to create something you don’t find around here often.” Dammeyer accents many of her metal pieces with rhinestones, beads, precious stones and intricate etchings that she does by hand. Popular accessories include necklaces, pendants and inch-and-a-half wide cuffs. This will be Dammeyer’s fifth year showcasing her jewelry at the fair. “Nothing I sell is over $65,” Dammeyer says. A self-taught metal smith, Dammeyer participates in various shows throughout the year including the Affair of the Arts festival in Spring Grove in addition to managing her online store (etsy.com/shop/pdammeyer) and website:

Andy Chappell can hardly wait to get into college. He has his heart set on Boston’s North Bennet Street School, a trade school specializing in traditional trades and fine craftsmanship. But for now, the 22-year-old is keeping his hands and mind busy throughout the waiting period working on some of his custom wooden pens. After a woodworking instructor motivated him to take up the craft by bringing in pen kits while he was in his senior year at Cary Grove High School, Chappell decided to convert his basement into a wood shop where he carefully carves and drills into oak, mango or cocobolo wood, embellishing with gems such as jasper or turquoise when desired. “After I cut a piece of wood, I sand it and seal it with a wax,” he explains. Chappell mimics numerous popular styles such as the “European twist pen” or the “Round Top pen,” otherwise referred to as the conventional click-style pen. Each pen, from the moment he cuts the block, to drilling and waxing, can take anywhere between four to seven hours to construct. Labor involved and type of wood determine the price of each unique piece. “I usually start at $60 per pen,” he says. This will be Chappell’s first year at the St. Paul’s craft show and he is eager to see the responses from fellow church members as well as the general public. “The next kind of pen that I want to try is called the cap-style pen in which it is constructed out of a single block of wood instead of multiple,” he explains.

3 At far left and left: Hand-made, woodcrafted pens by Andy Chappell. Photos provided MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | OCTOBER 2013 | 9

and Happenings

Unique Places

in McHenry County Visit our new Huntley Outlet Center location 11800 Factory Shops Blvd, #300

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A high-end thrift shop dedicated to empowering individuals to achieve their full potential… proceeds beneﬁt

McHenry County has a wide array of specialty shops.

Jewelry • Toys • Games • Clothing Electronics • Furniture • Lamps Books • Artwork

For additional store info, call 815.759.7100 or visit www.pioneercenter.org

Looking for fun Fall activities? Check out Richmond for many special events!

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Whether it’s new or pre-owned, it’s all here in McHenry County!

“Throughout the thirty years of my career in the ﬁnancial sector, I have found that the road block to women’s ﬁnancial security is often times themselves.”

–Paula Dorion-Gray, CFP® President, Dorion-Gray Retirement Planning, Inc.

SmartWoman

provides the tools, information, and understanding that women need to make sound ﬁnancial decisions for their future.

Everyone has challenges in life the difference between a critical moment and a crisis is in the planning and preparation.

Are You Ready For Your Future? Women are playing a role in the workforce like never before. In 1972, women made up 30% of the workforce, and today, that number is over 50 percent. In fact, the number of women earning over $100,000 per year has quadrupled in the past decade. Yet, 90% of women report they feel financially insecure. When confident about their financial future, women are better investors, more successful investors. Women have unique challenges to saving for retirement. We have competing factors in our life that can make if difficult to focus on

ﬁnances, we ask for raises far less often and we leave the workforce for life events and to care for children. This all leaves us with less money to save. Women retire with 2/3 less the assets of men - and we live longer. Paula Dorion-Gray is here to change that. After years of talking with women who are ill prepared for retirement and unaware of ﬁnancial tools that can ease the process, Paula created the SMARTWOMAN series. A series designed for smart women who need advice on how to plan for their future. Money means choice and choice means power.

For more information call or e-mail Paula

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www.doriongray.com paula@doriongray.com McHenryCountyRetirement.com 2602 IL Route 176 • Crystal Lake, IL 60014

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money

Ghosts In The Machine Protect your finances from high-tech swindlers at ATMs and online

I By Lee Nelson

12 | OCTOBER 2013 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

mchenrycountymagazine.com

money

t happens every day. We give our your bank frequently,” he says. “With online can snatch those PIN numbers and passwords debit cards to store workers and banking and ATMs, you should change your easily and wreak havoc on their accounts. pizza delivery services. We write numbers a lot. I wish they would let me make Finzel suggests making a password 10-12 down our passwords and PIN our customers change it every 30 days.” characters, and use the same first six or eight numbers so we don’t forget them. But people don’t want to forget those user characters of the PIN constantly, changing up We lose track of our computerized names and numbers. So they put them on a the last few with an abbreviation of the month transactions, and year such as 1013 or checking our 102013. accounts only once a month. “Create something that And every day we do so, we will work for you,” he says. make it easier and easier for “Also, have a listing of the Use a secure browser. Don’t give your credit card or other financial information someone to rip us off. 800-numbers for your credit to any website that isn’t secure. Your browser will let you know if a site is secure. The “You trust everyone around cards and your credit card URL address changes from “Http” to “Https”, and there will be a slowed padlock or you,” says banker Steve Finzel. numbers somewhere safe unbroken key at the bottom right of your screen. “Not a good idea.” that you can find quickly. Know who you’re dealing with. Anyone can set up shop online with any name. Money fraud happens to Once you misplace the cards If you’ve never heard of them, check any consumer complaints with Madigan’s offer people young and old, poor or believe they were stolen, and the Better Business Bureau. Be wary of companies that can only be contacted and rich. And as president, call the numbers to say what through an email. CEO and CFO of Golden has happened.” Check the privacy policy. That policy lets you know what personal information Eagle Community Bank in Another risky behavior is the company is collecting and why, and how it will be used. Woodstock, Finzel hears the failing to check up on online Pay with a credit card. Cash is a no-no. Using a charge card online allows your transaction to be protected by the Fair Credit Billing Act. The law allows consumers to sad stories and sees results of accounts. dispute charges under certain circumstances and puts a temporary hold on payment its devastation on people all “You need to go on while the creditor is investigating. the time. there often and look at But as quickly as you can the transactions,” he says. be taken, you also can protect “Are all these transactions yourself and your hard-earned cash. And it sticky note on their computer at work, write the ones you made? And when you give all comes down to being cautious and paying them on the back of their debit cards or keep your credit card or debit card at a store or closer attention to your finances. them in their billfold with the debit card. This restaurant, make sure you watch what they are “There are some very simple things you desire for easy access for themselves also makes 4 4 continued on pg 14 can do such as changing your PIN number at them vulnerable to fraud and theft, as others

safe shopping online, from the Tips forConsumer Protection Division:

Subscribes to the crazy notion that her retirement questions shouldn’t be answered by a call center. Is it bizarre to believe your retirement concerns should be addressed by an actual human being, not a menu of options? Of course not. That’s why our more than 11,000 ﬁnancial advisors are in neighborhoods like yours, not a call center in who-knows-where. So face-to-face attention is a given. Join the nearly 7 million investors who know. Face time and think time make sense. www.edwardjones.com.

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Financial Advisor

mchenrycountymagazine.com

money 4 4 continued from pg 13 And if being wary of the people handling your financial information isn’t enough, ATM users also should keep a watchful eye on the machines themselves, before they swipe their cards. “Does it look as if there is another mechanism attached to it? The face of ATMs can be duplicated by those who fraud you,” he says. The result is that criminals can glean card information and pin numbers as you type them, without you even realizing anything is amiss. “Protect your personal financial information at all times,” says Maura Possley, press secretary for Illinois’ Attorney General Lisa Madigan, whose office operates the Consumer Protection Division. A big part of that division’s work is to educate Illinois residents about how to avoid consumer fraud. In the past 10 years, the office has taken more than 250,000 complaints.

“Never give out cash or wire money to a stranger. It is a problem, and people do it a lot,” she says. “And don’t ever give out your personal information like your birthdate, social security number or bank account numbers to strangers on the phone, at your door or in an email.”

She suggests that you just hang up the phone, delete the email or shut the door, and contact her office. “If it’s too good to be true, then it’s not true,” she says. “There are all types of scams to get your money. You just have to be very cautious.” mc

Walk In and Out in 2 Hours

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Why Choose Paciﬁc Vein Care? THIS MENTION IVE A CE RE AD AND RY PAIR TA EN IM COMPL ESSIONS OF COMPR S STOCKING

Our Board Certified physicians at Pacific Vein Care distinguish themselves by being Vascular Trained Specialists. Our senior physician has performed Vein Ablation since 2002. Pacific Vein Care and its physicians have performed thousands of procedures since. PVC provides a scope of services with expertise that is superior to local “vein-only” specialists. Our staff is looking forward to serving our friends and neighbors as we continue to grow with our new Huntley office and more to come.

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Covered by Medicare and most insurance. 14 | OCTOBER 2013 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

mchenrycountymagazine.com

I By Jacky Runice

money

Sticker-Dicker Experts warn if you’re not haggling, you’re paying too much

ea Castillo has been selling gift items and jewelry at Eckel’s McHenry Flea Market for two years, yet she still can be surprised by the level to which people may dip to get a deal. “I noticed two older ladies biting pieces of my jewelry because they insisted it was made of acrylic and not crystal,” the McHenry resident laughs. “That was the way they haggled.” Those bold women aside, most of us are loathe to haggle. According to a recent survey by Consumer Reports, the number of us bargaining for goods and services has dropped by 13 percent since 2007. If you’re one of those shoppers who blows off bargaining, you’re losing, says CR’s research: 89 percent of those who haggled snagged a deal at least once. Some saved $80 on a cell phone plan, others got $300 lopped off of a furniture purchase and even the credit card companies are not immune to hagglers who realized a $100 drop in fee costs.

Bundle Up Jennifer Eckel, owner of the McHenry Flea Market, says buyers always should give it a shot. “The best way to haggle in order to get the best deal is to ‘bundle’ just like the guys on the American Pickers TV show,” she explains. “The more pieces you buy at once, the better deal you’re going to get.” Another seller at the flea market, Lori March, agrees. “Bundles are where it’s at — the more you buy the more you save,” the Woodstock resident concurs. You might not find prices on many of her Asian, inspirational and seasonal pieces, but make no mistake about it, March knows what she paid for each and has a solid idea of what she wants. “I had to find the piece, clean it and bring it in,” she explains. “But if we can’t agree on a price, I will try to find you something you can afford. I want you to leave happy and feel like you got a deal.” 15 | OCTOBER 2013 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

“The Internet slowed down haggling in our Eckel says customers need to realize that some sellers are offering business,” Rosenberg says, “because everybody new items at wholesale. goes on the Internet and there are 200 web “The wholesale sellers are already at sites where you can get the price of a new car. rock bottom prices, so haggling is usually We price our new cars at dead invoice, so there’s not going to work.” no reason to haggle.” Whatever you do, don’t be boorish about He says even though car sales are up and profits the whole transaction. are down for the dealership, high tech works “There are people that are just for him as much as the consumer. rude, who know something is “If someone is questioning a worth $20 and they want price, I take the customer to to give you a dollar,” the a computer to show them flea market owner says. what new cars cost and that Castillo agrees that if Whether it’s we can build them the a buyer is pleasant car that they want and furniture, jewelry, and well-mannered, my price is still lower. she’ll give them appliances ... On the other hand, something off the they used the web Consumer Reports price. The irksome and know exactly customers are the advises that if you don’t what their used car ones who spend is worth. It really cuts take a stab at haggling, time criticizing down on the haggling.” a piece, offer a you could be leaving Even so, there are lowball price and still the fearless few who money behind. start walking away insist on wheeling and in an effort to get her to beg for their dealing. return to her booth. It’s a “There are those people haggling dance of sorts she who want to do it, anyway,” he encounters every day. says, “down to the last few dollars. “Sometimes, I just have to tell But in the end, they realize that we give them, ‘sorry, I need to get at least what I paid them fair money for their trade-ins, they pay for it,’” Castillo says. “It is a flea market, after all, so invoice and everybody’s happy.” prices are already low.” Whether it’s furniture, jewelry, appliances, electronics, home improvement projects or even a medical bill, Consumer Reports advises that if you don’t take a stab at haggling, you could be leaving When it comes to big ticket items, like cars, money behind. Eckels says you may as well try to most have experienced haggling at its most dramatic. But even though negotiating has been a negotiate. “There are people out there that won’t walk part of the auto business since Henry Ford’s days, into a booth that doesn’t have everything priced modern technology could nudge haggling to go because they’re shy or afraid to haggle. Be like the the way of the telegram or slide projector, says other people, who find the fun in the hunt, and Gary Rosenberg, owner of Crystal Lake Dodge you just might get a really good deal.” mc Chrysler Jeep.

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Stepford Wife

family

For Halloween this year, I have decided to be a

would like to pretend, for just one day, that I am a perfect wife and mother. These days, I feel far from perfect. My fuse is shorter, my kids more unruly. No matter how hard I try, no matter how much I discipline them, no matter how much I do to provide fun activities, nothing ever seems good enough. A friend of mine works for a talk show produced in Chicago, and she reached out to me to submit some video clips for an upcoming segment. She asked me to give a quick snip-it, admitting something I do as a parent that might make me a “bad mom.” I was hoping she was asking several other mothers and not just me. It would be embarrassing to think she got this assignment and immediately thought, “I know a bad mom! I’ll contact Michelle Stien.” And while I can think of a million and one things that cause me to secondguess myself every day, I hoped I wasn’t the worst of the bunch. As I lamented, life continued as usual. My kids both were grounded from playing with our neighbors for throwing temper tantrums. That followed with Colin losing television, video game and iPod Touch privileges for an entire day, just for his general behavior. And when I thought I had finished with the punishments, (there weren’t many more things I could take away from them) I found out Colin dropped an F-bomb in the childcare center at my gym. In his defense (and mine) another boy said it first and then Colin retorted with the same phrase. Still, I felt like the inmates were running the asylum and perhaps I was “The. Worst.Mom.Ever.” Smack in the middle of my mchenrycountymagazine.com

pity-party, I came across a blog on Facebook that put everything in perspective. The blog post was titled, “To the Unwashed Masses of Mothers” at scarymommy.com. Initially, I thought the post was going to slam moms like me — the ones who yell at their kids at the grocery store. The ones who don’t care if a shower comes at the beginning or end of the day. The ones who, for a brief moment while shopping, look as if they are abandoning their screaming, temper-tantrum throwing four-year-old who wants a toy. The one who at that moment throws “1-2-3 Magic” and “Love and Logic” out the window in favor of an oldfashioned tongue-lashing. But the post offered a kinder, gentler take on moms like me. The bottom line: “You are doing better than you think.” Another line that struck a chord with me: “There is no such thing as a perfect mom.” It went on to quote a

Yiddish saying, “There is one perfect child in the world, and every mother has it.” I sighed in relief. I had been struggling with my column, feeling like everything I have been writing has been a farce. I had no words of wisdom. Quite frankly, I usually feel like I should be the one seeking out parenting advice. But this woman, all in one 600-word blog, made me feel like a million bucks. She made me remember why I started writing about my kids in the first place, and why so many readers continue to follow my crazy tales. They are honest, realistic and relatable. Together, we can laugh and find humor through the chaos that is motherhood. There’s a reason there is an entire talk show segment dedicated to parents doubting themselves. We’re not alone. I’m not alone. So, no. I’m not perfect. To be quite honest, I don’t want to be. At the end of the day, I still look at my kids in wonder and amazement for how incredible they are. I still can’t believe how much love I feel for them. They still cry when I leave the house, hug me when I come back and think that I’m “The. Best. Mom.Ever.” And I wouldn’t trade that feeling for anything, imperfections and all. mc

Write This Down with Michelle Stien

• Michelle Stien is a stay-at-home mom of two children, ages 4 and 6. Her mother always told her to “write this down,” so she is sharing her experiences with McHenry County moms to help them deal with the craziness of being “Mom.”

OCTOBER 2013 | 17

family in focus

I By ERIN SAUDER

YOUNG Money When budgets begin in childhood, the lessons last a lifetime

ice cream cone able to give lessons to McHenry County now or a college fifth-graders on fiscal responsibility. education later? “When kids come into the bank with What is the right their parents, they have no idea what age to broach the they’re really doing. When they go to the subject of fiscal responsibility with kids? ATM, they think mom and dad can just Diane Susong, assistant vice president get money out of the ATM machine. They at Home State Bank in Crystal Lake, says don’t understand you have to have money around the age of 10. in an account to get money out of the “They’re old enough then, to understand ATM.” where money comes Through the Bank at from, how it’s used and School program, students the importance to save at were taught how to that age,” she says. “When open up accounts, make they’re a little younger, deposits, and how credit they don’t quite get it. cards work, among other But at fifth grade they’re topics. starting to understand the “The No. 1 lesson process. They’re going to was the importance the bank with mom and to save, because dad, along with seeing life happens and them make purchases you need to be using their debit card and prepared when it credit card.” does,” Susong says. At that age, kids “A savings account also are ready to learn is just one way to the difference between be prepared when short-term and long-term unexpected things purchases, Susong says. happen in your — Nancy Topalovich, “If they do get an life. The program vice president of retail banking for American Community Bank and Trust allowance, go over with provided children them what they plan to with tools for do with the allowance,” Susong says. “Do decision-making with their dollars. they want to purchase something shortAnd hopefully those tools will term like an ice cream cone, or save for follow them into adulthood.” something long-term like a computer game Nancy Topalovich, vice president of or television they want for their bedroom, retail banking for American Community or even college? You can teach them the Bank and Trust which has locations in differences between those goals.” Crystal Lake, Huntley, McHenry and Woodstock, says it’s never too early to School-Age Banking talk to children about the concept of She is no stranger to talking with kids saving for the future. about money management. For years, “If they understand going to Home State Bank participated in the state’s the store and spending money, a Bank at School program, where Susong was discussion should be had in regard

Even if they only deposit $10 a month, it establishes a discipline of saving for the future.

to the value of money and ways in which to earn it, save it and ultimately spend it,” she says.

LEARNING To Save

Parents can help get their children on the path to financial responsibility by setting a good example, Topalovich says. “(Teach them) to live within their means — they may want the $25 toy but they

family in focus

only have enough money for the $10 toy. Either wait and save their money for the more expensive item or enjoy what they can afford,” she says. “I don’t feel a parent should extend credit so the child is able to get what they can’t afford.” Susong suggests a few websites, such as wheresgeorge.com, which allows kids to track where their dollar bill has traveled, and http://www.enchantedlearning.com/ math/money/bills/one/, which gives indepth information on the history of the dollar bill. What topics should be talked about at what age? Topalovich says that like most things with kids, money discussions depend on the maturity of the child. “Even if they only deposit $10 a month, it establishes a discipline of saving for the future,” she says. “I would hope by the time a child reaches high school a conversation in regards to college savings had begun. A high school student should have a checking and savings account, learn about credit and the pitfalls of a bad credit score, and (if working) establish a retirement account.” Because of American Community Bank and Trust’s strong belief in financial literacy, bank representatives sponsored the Internet-based EverFi course for 10 high schools in McHenry County. Through the program, juniors and seniors learned about financial management and how they can achieve their long-term goals of buying a home, funding higher education and preparing for retirement. “We believe very strongly in financial literacy and educating young people,” Topalovich says.

Advance your career at the Aurora University Woodstock Center. » Adult degree completion programs in business administration, communication and RN to BSN » Graduate degrees, endorsements and certiﬁcate programs in business, education, nursing and addictions (CADC) » Evening, weekend and online classes available For a complete list of degree programs and more information, visit aurora.edu/woodstock

Take the next step Call 815-337-6051 or email WCadmission@aurora.edu to schedule an individual appointment to discuss your degree options.

Aurora University Woodstock Center 222 Church St. | Woodstock, IL 60098

19 | OCTOBER 2013 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

mchenrycountymagazine.com

family in focus

The Treat’s In The Trick

Clever costumes, bought or made, delight this Halloween Candy corn, carved pumpkins and costumes. The fun traditions of Halloween continue for generations of children. And picking out whether to be a favorite cartoon character, super hero or fairy tale princess is just part of the excitement that this month brings. What will your kids be wearing this year for Halloween? It’s never too early to start checking out the costumes and accessories. But most of all, it’s a good idea to check with your kids to see what they want to be this year, said Susie Fox, owner of The Material Girl in Crystal Lake. “Halloween is a very big deal to a lot of people,” she says

I By Lee Nelson

she said. Her own daughter went one year as a ballerina, and Fox made wings from lightweight cardboard and painted them with glitter. Her store has lots of tulle “We have a lot of Halloween patterns to material and sequins to make any little help people if they want to make their own girl feel special in her sparkly Halloween costumes for their children. But we also have costume. You can also find buttons, lace, lots of older material for $2 a yard, material trims and other products that can be to make all kinds of things.” added to clothing or material to make it a The beauty of Halloween is that you can customized costume. make handmade costumes from what you “One of my friends even made her kids have at home. into ketchup and mustard bottles out “You can glue stuff together, be inspired of felt, which is so easy to sew with. by a book and you don’t even have to sew. It’s She cut letters out of felt and glued amazing what you can do with a glue gun,” them on. She made easy pointy Fox says. hats. It was adorable,” she said. She suggests asking your kids early on If DIY just isn’t your thing, what they see themselves going as, and then there are shops around the start researching. Many times, she has seen area to fill all your costume her own children and her friends’ kids not needs. follow any trends for that particular year. “Pirates, zombies, They want to be individuals. But some of the gangsters and flappers easiest outfits to make by yourself are pirates continue to be the most or zombies. Look on the internet for photos popular consistently for your inspiration, she says. through the years,” says “For instance for a zombie, start with Bernice Ferraro of Fantasy an old sweatshirt and jeans with holes in Festival Costume Shop in them. Then get some inexpensive face paint Algonquin. “Pirates offer at a drug store. Mess with the hair and use a variety of costuming lipstick for the blood. It’s easy,” she said. possibilities from the shabby The point is that Halloween is supposed to the chic GQ Pirate. Zombies to be fun, and it doesn’t need to be expensive focus on the make-up portion to or perfect. create the ‘almost dead’ look on the “Look on Pinterest for other ideas. Girls skin.” love being fairy tale princesses or witches,” She adds that costumes for zombies can

be any decade or character. Try a zombie nurse, zombie cowboys or other creation. “Zombies are always stress-fully ‘fashionable,’ she says, adding that costumes from the flapperera put everyone into a party mood. “Super heroes are also quite popular, and it is fun to create one’s own version of a super hero with a cape, mask, belt and gloves.” A word of caution, when creating that back from the dead look: colored contacts should never be worn to make that costume look authentic. The only time this would be OK is if they were prescribed by an optical professional. “It is against state and federal law for anyone to dispense these lenses without being a licensed optical professional. To ignore this caveat is to risk the potential of serious eye damage and possible blindness,” Ferraro says. Consumer Reports also gives some other safe costume tips so your children can have a memorable and fun Halloween: Buy costumes that are labeled “flame resistant.” Avoid baggy, billowing skirts and cloaks that might brush against a candle-lit jack-olantern or luminary. Be cautious when using makeup for face paint. Much of it is not FDA-approved and could trigger allergic reactions. Make sure your kids won’t trip over their costumes and avoid accessories like swords and canes that have sharp edges. Be wary of masks that could potentially block your child’s vision. mc

3 Wings for fairies can be made from lightweight cardboard. Tulle and sequins.

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www.gulgren.com 21 | OCTOBER 2013 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

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Ray Westman Owner, Verlo Mattress

“Fortunately, our industry has done an excellent job of educating consumers on the importance of a good night’s sleep.”

People’s bodies change over time, but most of the time, their mattresses don’t. The result? Back and joint problems, poor sleep, stress and fatigue caused by lack of proper rest. But Ray Westman, owner of the Verlo Mattress Factory Stores in Crystal Lake, McHenry and Lake Geneva, is committed to helping customers find healthy, restful sleep, not only when their Verlo Mattress is brand new, but also when it’s years old. “Everyone changes and it’s not realistic to think you’re going to need exactly the same kind of mattress ten years from now that you need today. What we custom build for you now, can be adjusted or repaired to fit your needs in the future,” Westman said. Specializing in custom-built sleep systems, Wisconsinbased Verlo Mattress was founded in 1958 and now has more than forty franchise locations. Westman has been with Verlo Mattress since 1985, and purchased his first Verlo store in 1994. He now owns three showrooms, and a production facility in McHenry. In a time when mattresses are sold at big box and discount stores, in addition to mattress retailers, Westman is proud to offer something more than the typical cookie-cutter approach. “Your body, your comfort needs and sleep habits all influence the kind of sleep set we build for you,” he said. Your perfect sleep begins at the Verlo showroom, or online with the Verlo Virtual Craftsman. “We’ll discuss who is using the mattress, a single person or a couple, a child or a teen, your preferred sleeping position, back or neck issues, and firmness preference. Often, the craftsman who will build your mattress is the person helping you on the sales floor,” Westman said. Using top quality materials, trained craftsmen construct your sleep system locally, the day before it is delivered.

Bucking the trend toward shorter-life no-ﬂip mattresses, Verlo still builds two-sided mattresses, something informed, quality-conscious customers appreciate. “The people who buy from us understand the continuing value of a customdesigned locally built product,” Westman said. In addition to innerspring mattresses, Verlo also carries Visco Foam, Gel Foam, VerloAIRE beds, sleep accessories to complete your custom sleep system, adjustable beds and futon sofa sleepers in a wide variety of styles. In a tight economy, Westman understands that customers’ budgets are stretched tighter than ever before. “Because customers have less disposable income, the reality means that we’re competing against other needs, ranging from a new refrigerator to car repair. Fortunately, our industry has done an excellent job of educating consumers on the importance of a good night’s sleep,” he said.

Ray Westman

Verlo Mattress Factory 3710 W. Elm Street, McHenry 815.578.8375 5150 Northwest Highway, Crystal Lake 815.455.2570 www.verlo.com

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Rosecrance McHenry County Fills Local Service Needs

“We thought we’d see about 900 clients; instead we’ve seen about 1,300,” said Chris Gleason, director of Rosecrance McHenry County. Deborah Smith, clinical director, and Chris Gleason, director, Rosecrance McHenry County.

After a full year in McHenry County, Rosecrance, a private health-service not-for-proﬁt agency, is helping more people than expected. “We thought we’d see about 900 clients; instead we’ve seen about 1,300,” said Chris Gleason, director of Rosecrance McHenry County. The McHenry facility provides outpatient mental health and substance abuse treatment programs that are familyfocused and foster lasting recovery by helping clients and their families develop tools that lead to healthy, productive lives. Treatment options include group and individual therapy, medication assisted-treatments, psychosocial rehabilitation, case management, and more. The center serves clients of all ages. “We have patients from 7 years old, on up,” said Gleason. Within the substance abuse area, the majority of patients are between the ages of 19 and 35, and the majority of them are dealing with heroin addiction. “As a county, substance abuse remains a huge issue. But people are more aware of it, more people are seeking help and that’s a trend we want to continue to see,” Gleason said. He said that clients come to Rosecrance through a variety of channels including referrals from other agencies, through friends, family members and some contact the agency themselves. To meet the inﬂux of clients, Rosecrance has continued to add groups. “Our goal is for them to be able to access services within 24 to 48 hours. When someone makes the decision to seek help, time is of the essence, especially in substance abuse. If they call and are unable to connect with anyone, they are less likely to call back,” Gleason said. Prompt response is critical on the mental health side as well, as is convenient access to services. Recently, Rosecrance

McHenry County partnered with Harvard School District 26, to provide behavioral health services to district students and family members. “We learned that there were issues in Harvard regarding transportation and access, so we are working with the district to provide services locally. Instead of them coming to us, we’re coming to them,” Gleason said. Similar programs have been successful for other Rosecrance locations and Gleason hopes to expand to other McHenry County school districts. “It’s one of the goals we’ll be working on,” he said. Currently located on Veterans Parkway in McHenry, Rosecrance will move in the near future to a more accessible location that will allow for an expansion of services. “Clients’ convenience and peace of mind are top priorities for us,” Gleason said. “We will make the transition to a new location without interrupting service to the people who come to Rosecrance for care.”

Rosecrance McHenry County 4100 Veterans Parkway McHenry, IL 815-363-6132 rosecrance.org

Unique individuals who provide specialized services Noël Thelander: Edward Jones Financial Goals for Each Stage of Life Just starting your first “real” job? There’s no better time to start thinking about retirement. “Though it seems like a lifetime away, now is the time to establish good habits that will help you meet your future financial goals,” said Noël Thelander, a Financial Advisor with Edward Jones, in Woodstock. Whether it’s helping young adults open their first investment accounts, assisting parents in finding the right balance between college and retirement saving, or guiding seniors and their adult children though the crucial steps to ensure lifelong income, Thelander is committed to helping clients understand and implement financial solutions that are just right for their goals and situation. “I work with the financial life-cycle of your family,” said Thelander. She emphasizes the importance of custom tailoring financial strategies and solutions only after actively listening and understanding who and what matters most to each particular client. “When clients take an active role in setting financial goals and understand what it takes to meet their goals, they feel empowered and are much more likely to be successful,” she said. Noël’s office is located in downtown Woodstock, where she serves as President of Woodstock Professional and Business Women (WPBW) and is a proud past recipient of the Woodstock Chamber of Commerce and Industry’s Professional Service Provider of the Year award.

Edward Jones • 211 Dean Street, Suite 2A • Woodstock, IL 815.338.2911 • www.edwardjones.com

Elite Laser & Skin Spa DeAnna Kell Elite Laser and Skin Spa Promotes Beauty Inside and Out From spray tans to anti-aging treatments and scar reduction, Elite Laser and Skin Spa in Algonquin has your skin care solution. “By following an effective skin care regimen, you can greatly enhance the look and youthfulness of your skin,” said Elite Laser and Skin Spa’s owner DeAnna Kell. Before opening Elite in 2009, DeAnna, a licensed esthetician, worked in a medical spa in Chicago’s Gold Coast neighborhood, and for a renowned plastic surgeon, with an office right off Michigan Avenue. Her clients have included models and local celebrities. She brings the same professional expertise to McHenry County by working with an expert team that includes licensed estheticians, certified laser technicians, a registered nurse and Dr. Thors, a board certified plastic surgeon. “We begin with a complimentary consultation to discuss your skincare needs, and the best options to meet them,” DeAnna said. Elite Laser and Skin Spa of Algonquin specializes in state of the art laser and non-surgical procedures for women and men. Their wide variety of services includes laser hair removal, stretch mark and scar reduction, skin resurfacing, photo facials, spray tans, organic ic facials and much more. “All of our treatments are done with respect for our client’s privacy in a medical spa that is as comfortable as their own home. Our caring, professional staff has one goal; for clients to walk out looking and feeling their best,” she said.

Elite Laser and Skin Spa 1482 Merchant Drive Algonquin, IL 60102 • 847-658-5858 www.elitelaserandskinspa.com

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James G. Militello Jill J. Struck Attorneys

“Transactional law deals with non-litigation activities that have an economic impact on individuals or companies.”

Professional Expertise, Client Focus As transactional law practitioners, Crystal Lake attorneys Jim Militello and Jill Struck, guide clients through the legal process. “Transactional law deals with non-litigation activities that have an economic impact on individuals or companies,” said Jim Militello, founder of Militello & Struck, LLC, Attorneys at Law in Crystal Lake. The firm concentrates in real estate transactions, estate planning, business law, commercial transactions, probate, zoning and land planning. The office size ensures personalized, client-centered service. “Our focus is on the ‘best interest’ of our client,” he said. A graduate of DePaul University Law School, Militello began his career working in the tax division of a Big Eight accounting firm before opening his own practice. His focus deals with business and commercial transactions. A trend he has observed are entrepreneurs turning to the Internet to sort out complex legal issues. “Businesspeople are great innovators and risk takers, but they’re very busy and often don’t have the time or the legal background to fully research and understand the legal ramifications of a situation or contract. We can help them do that, and guide them through the transaction to a satisfactory outcome,” said Militello. Also a graduate of DePaul University Law School, Struck’s concentration areas are business law, real estate,

and estate planning. Estate planning is a complex area of law and often confusing to the client. “It is most rewarding to know that your client understands how her estate plan works. Having sophisticated estate planning documents isn’t enough. If the client doesn’t understand what she has, or why…I think you’ve missed the mark. Our goal is to have the clients understand how their documents are working for them so they can have peace of mind knowing that they have accomplished what they intended, “ Struck said. Jim and Jill focus on a client’s “best interest” which has established long-lasting relationships with their clients. “You can’t advise your client effectively unless you ﬁrst have an understanding of what they want and what they can stomach; communication is key,” said Struck.

MILITELLO & STRUCK, LLC James G. Militello & Jill J. Struck 820 E. Terra Cotta Ave, #116 Crystal Lake, IL 60014 815.788.9900 www.militello-law.com

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Small School Offers Big Advantages High academic standards and a Christian focus set Crystal Lake’s Faith Lutheran High School apart. “Last year our graduating seniors received an average of $27,150 in college scholarships. We tell parents that in itself pays for Faith Lutheran High School,” said Principal and Executive Director Chris Schoenleb. The school offers a 12-1 student/faculty ratio. Not only does this help top students excel, it enables midlevel and struggling students to reach their potential. The average senior ACT score for past four years has been 25.5 with the Class of 2014 currently averaging 27.67; among the highest in McHenry County. “With small classes, teachers are able to work with students on an individual basis, which makes a difference,” Schoenleb said. Extra-curricular activities include the arts, community service and athletics. A member of the Northeastern Athletic Conference, Faith’s twelve boys’ and girls’ varsity teams compete against nine other schools. Students are required to participate in at least one activity, and the school’s 80-student enrollment means greater opportunity for everyone. “Instead of ﬁfty boys trying out for basketball, there are eighteen,” Schoenleb said. Whether its academics, activities or athletics, a religious focus shines through. “In addition to taking theology each year, Christianity is woven into all of our curriculum, athletics, and extra-curricular activities, “ he said. Learn more at www.faithlhs.org or at an Open House, Nov. 3, 2013, from 1-4 pm, Feb. 9 and April 10, 2014.

Chris Schoenleb • Faith Lutheran High School • 174 McHenry Avenue, Crystal Lake, IL 815-479-9305 • www.faithlhs.org

Special Ways to Say Thank You Looking for a great gift to express your appreciation to clients or customers? Janice Means, owner of EmbroidMe in Crystal Lake can help. Not only does EmbroidMe offer a selection of high-quality, customembroided wearables, the shop also sells useful items that can be customized with your company’s logo. Popular business-to-business gift ideas include electronic accessories such as Smartphone holders, rubber styluses, screen cleaners and sleeves for tablets and laptops. “People use these items over and over, and appreciate them because they’re a useful tool,” said Means. For companies whose end customer is a consumer—especially a family or a female, customized kitchen items are great options. “You can put your logo on cutting boards, spatulas, cups, bowls, glasses and barware. It’s a nice change because so many of the logo gifts target men,” Means said. Kitchen items are also perfect for schools, youth sports programs and more. To ensure holiday delivery, Means recommends placing orders no later than Thanksgiving, but adds that some businesses prefer earlier gift-giving, in late November rather than December. “That way, the item doesn’t get lost in the bustle of the holidays, and it’s a nice opportunity to say thank you,” Means said.

Janice R. Means, EmbroidMe • 6226 Northwest Hwy, Crystal Lake, IL 815-444-1081 • www.embroidme-crystallake.com

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Service, not Politics, Drives County Clerk In 1959, when McHenry County Clerk Katherine Schultz was a recent high school graduate and came to work for the McHenry County government, she never considered that one day, she might hold office. It was her first boss, former County Clerk Vernon Kays, who encouraged her. “He gave me the confidence that one day I might be able to do this job,” said Schultz. Kays, who served until 1978, set an example of dedication. After one election when returns from the precincts were slow to arrive, Schultz recalls that in the wee hours of the morning, Kays sent his staff home. “The next morning, when I came to work, I found him sleeping, but still at his desk, because it was his responsibility to be here,” she said. From Rosemary Azzaro, County Clerk, from 1978 until 1990, Schultz learned never to assume anything. “That advice has encouraged me to not look at a new law at face value, but to do some research, and understand the reason behind it,” she said. Schultz was first elected County Clerk in 1990, and though she holds an elected position, she doesn’t consider herself a politician. Nor does she want anyone else to. “Because we are responsible for conducting elections, I always felt it was best to stay out of politics as much as possible,” Schultz said.

Katherine Schultz • County Clerk • 2200 N. Seminary Ave., Woodstock, IL 60098 815-334-4242 • www.co.mchenry.il.us/departments/countyclerk Phoenix Woodworking President Proud of Employees No matter what challenge she faces as she works with clients, Sandra Pierce, president and founder of Phoenix Woodworking in Woodstock, has already met the biggest of all - rebuilding the company, literally from the ground up. In 1996, the company, then under previous ownership, was nearly destroyed after a fire burned its facility to the ground. Within a few days Pierce, the company president, had organized the employees and launched a new venture, appropriately named Phoenix Woodworking Corporation. Phoenix Woodworking specializes in custom architectural millwork, furniture, cabinetry, store fixtures and casework. The company creates millwork for large hospitals, medical offices, universities and public buildings. “As our business has grown, we have taken larger projects outside of our local community but I am grateful for the “roots” that I have grown in McHenry County,” says Pierce. A graduate of Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, with a bachelor’s degree in Industrial Technology, Pierce is very active in the community. She serves on McHenry County College Foundation board, the McHenry County Workforce Investment Board and on the Board of Directors for the Raue Center, among other organizations. “Without the commitment and skill of our employees, Phoenix Woodworking would not be what it is today. As a businesswoman, I believe investing in our local workforce is an investment in our future,” she says.

Phoenix Woodworking • 2000 Duncan Place, Woodstock, IL (815) 338-9338 • Fax (815) 338-9383 • www.phoenixwoodworking.com

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Melissa Emory Photographer

“Though I am in the business of photography, what I really strive to do is to listen and to tell a story through the image.”

Emory’s Pictures Tell A Story Not long ago, someone asked Algonquin photographer Melissa Emory what she enjoyed most about her work. “I took a second to think about it, then realized it isn’t the end product that’s most satisfying, It’s what actually had to happen to get it,” she said. Her business, Emory Photography, specializes in fine art photography ranging from portraits to landscapes, commercial and concert photography. Working in both color and black and white, Emory’s style is inspired by motion pictures, music and fine art. She takes a unique approach to every project. “Though I am in the business of photography, what I really strive to do is to listen and to tell a story through the image. The more invested you are, and the more time you spend, the more story you get to tell,” she said. Emory finds the story in a variety of ways. Laying on the ground in the middle of a country road to get the right angle of the sun silhouetted on a dancing bride and groom, being ready with her camera to capture the moment when a family bursts out in laughter, or when a small business owner passionately describes what they do. “It can happen when I’m sipping coffee with a subject, talking about nothing. Those are my favorite moments, because in the end, it isn’t the photograph we love, it’s the moment in the photograph,” she said. Emory knew from a young age she wanted to be a photographer. “Even before I had a camera, I would steal moments and keep stills of them in my mind. Much later, I was captivated by radiant color, superb contrast and beautiful composition. For me, photography symbolized the art of

meaningful yet unspoken communication, from one period of time to the next.” Though she studied photography in college, Emory feels that her best education has come through her professional assignments. An early defining moment occurred when she photographed a friend’s children. “I shot three rolls of film of her two little girls and once those images were developed and others saw them, I soon had enough children’s work to fill my schedule.” Her work has been shown in art exhibits, and one of her favorite pieces was recently purchased by a collector. She is active in the local business and arts community, and often volunteers her services to area not-for-profits. Though her work takes her throughout the Chicago area, she calls the northwest suburbs home. “I love it here, not too far from the bustle of the city, but just a jog from the middle of nowhere.”

Melissa Emory 847.207.1446 www.emoryphotography.com

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A “Gem” In The Making Fingerprints, stars and snowﬂakes are unique, and so are ﬁne gemstones. “Gemology is a fascinating career,” said Karly Bulinski, an appraiser with Steffan’s Jewelers in McHenry. Bulinski is currently studying at the Gemological Institute of America, to become a Graduate Gemologist, like her aunt Suzanne, the store’s owner since 1992. “When she asked me to go to gem school, I jumped at the chance,” said Bulinski, a mother of two, who also holds a Bachelors degree in psychology from Columbia College of Missouri. Though she began working at Steffan’s full time in September 2011, the business has always been part of her life. “When I was little, I loved coming in with my grandmother and even today, I have customers who still remember that.” She is the fourth generation of her family to work in the jewelry business founded by her great grandparents in 1946. As an appraiser, she evaluates jewelry for insurance coverage, measuring and identifying stones, grading the color and clarity of diamonds. As a gemologist, Bulinski builds upon that expertise. Because of the sophistication of treated stones, it is important to work with a trusted, professional gemologist. “We can identify treatments to stones that consumers might not be aware of, which can effect their value,” Bulinski said.

Karly Bulinski • Steffan’s Jewelers • 325 N. Front St. (Rt. 31), McHenry (Located in the Fountain Shoppes) 815-385-6070 • www.steffansjewelers.com

health & fitness / COVER story

Sense of Self

Specialized boutique helps breast cancer patients through wisdom, compassion I By Elizabeth Harmon

Though Benchmark Atlantic Healthcare’s business is “image renewal,” that description only hints at the true impact the Bull Valley women’s health products boutique has on the lives of its customers. The decade old business specializes in intimate apparel, breastforms, swimforms and other healthcare products designed for women who are undergoing treatment for breast cancer, from radiation through post-surgery. The shop not only offers consultation and professional fitting services, but also a healthy measure of support, smiles and compassion. “Breasts are such an important part of a woman’s body image, and recovering that is very important to her psychological wellbeing,” says Cathy Spagnoli, RN, a certified breast cancer navigator, with Northwestern 6 An inspirational note is tacked to an inspirational poster in the Benchmark Atlantic Healthcare office. Photos by Melissa Emory

Lake Forest Hospital, who refers pre- and post-surgical patients to Benchmark. “It’s like a sisterhood and we know how it feels to be in their shoes,” says Claudia Ovington, a certified breast care fitter and one of three breast cancer survivors on staff. Owner Cathy Boll had been a stay-at-home mom for 17 years, when a woman close to her was diagnosed with breast cancer. In addition to coping with the physical and emotional stress of treatment, her friend was frustrated by being unable to find the products she needed close to home. With the closest supplier more than an hour away, Boll saw a desperate need and the medical equipment company founded by her husband, Peter Boll, provided a way to meet it. “It felt like this business chose me. I had a vision, the drive and I just knew that I was supposed to do this,” says Boll. For the first two years, she worked alone, making presentations to healthcare providers and breast cancer support groups in McHenry County and surrounding areas. One of the women who heard Boll speak was Marcia Kennelly, a breast cancer survivor and a co-founder of Advocate Good

5 Cathy Boll consults with a client at Benchmark Atlantic Healthcare.

Shepherd Hospital’s Y-ME Support Group. “We were blown away by her products and when I came to her shop, it was confidential, pretty and peaceful. Exactly what I was looking for,” says Kennelly, who joined Benchmark a few months later, and now is a certified breast care fitter. Today the shop employs six, including Boll, and serves customers across northern Illinois, both through her Bull Valley shop, and scheduled hospital fitting days. Home visits and senior care center visits are available upon request. mchenrycountymagazine.com

of the whole cancer experience that felt pleasant,” says Sonneville. Following lumpectomies, women frustrated with a lack of symmetry in their bust lines are often unaware of the solutions available to them, Ovington “The women love that, because it’s says. convenient for them,” says Boll, a board “They feel like they should learn to certified mastectomy fitter. live with it and just be happy that they’re Meeting with a fitter is an alive, but it still important part of the prebugs them,” surgical education process, says Ovington. Spagnoli says. In addition “We want women to see, to everyday feel and touch the products. bras and sports It takes away some of the bras, the shop fear factor, when they know carries colorful what to expect.” lingerie and With an all-female staff, specialty bras and an atmosphere that for strapless more closely resembles a looks. “We spa or salon than a medical have young supply business, the goal patients in their is to make clients relaxed, 30s and 40s positive and confident. who want to During a woman’s initial be able to wear visit to Benchmark, she the things they will meet with a fitter to wore before. discuss her product needs — Theresa Sonneville, These aren’t heavy, and where she is in the office manager industrial-looking treatment process. Often, bras. They’re pretty, the conversations can feminine and sexy,” become very emotional. says Spagnoli. “A lot of the The bras are priced comparably to upscale women just need department store brands, but with the added to be with someone expense of breast forms and other items, who is sympathetic women may find the cost daunting and can and comforting,” says be unaware that insurance may cover some, if receptionist Mary not all of it. Because Benchmark is accredited Levey, a breast cancer through the American Board of Orthotics and survivor, who first Prosthetics, and is contracted with Medicare, came to Benchmark as BCBS and other major insurance companies, it a customer. is able to bill insurance directly. The presence of three “One of the womens’ biggest concerns is the stylish and vivacious out of pocket expense and how much it’s going survivors is incredibly to cost. I’ll call the insurance company, get the reassuring to women facing radiation treatment and surgery, Boll says. “Often they’re unsure and afraid, but when they find out that Mary, Claudia and Marcia are survivors, all of a sudden their faces change, big time,” she says. In a fitting room known as “the boudoir,” women try on bras and camisoles equipped with discrete inner pockets that accommodate breast forms and waterproof swimforms. Though Benchmark does not carry swimwear, office manager Theresa Sonneville, who also is a seamstress, frequently makes modifications to customers’ own swimsuits and dresses. “We often hear that this was the one part 3 At left is the staff of Benchmark Atlantic Healthcare. All are breast cancer survivors. They are, from left, Claudia Ovington, Marcia Kennelly, Cathy Boll, Theresa Sonneville, Mary Levey and Lisa Hauser.

We often hear that this was the one part of the whole cancer experience that felt pleasant.

31 | OCTOBER 2013 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

specific information upfront, so there are no surprises, and it’s a huge relief,” says Medical Billing Specialist Lisa Hauser. Women without insurance who are in need of assistance, can access donated items and complementary fittings. The Benchmark staff has participated in breast cancer charity events under the name The Sunshine Girls, inspired by an 80-something longtime client, whose habit is to wish others “a sunshine day.” “That’s our goal too,” Boll says. mc 5 (Above) Specialized bras are priced comparably to upscale department store brands and are pretty, feminine and sexy. 6 The fitting room, known as “The Boudoir” is where women try on bras and camisoles equipped with with discrete inner pockets that accommodate breast forms.

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Vital Signs

TROUBLE? Adjust your spine, not your diet

hen heartburn strikes, do in pain in the upper abdomen and chest, and you reach for the antacids the more common sensation of heartburn. or prescription medicines Commonly, people will turn to antacids for relief? None of these or changes in diet, such as eliminating spicy really solve the problem, foods, lowering salt, or avoiding acidic foods, though they may temporarily alleviate the caffeine and chocolate. But that may simply symptoms. You may be surprised to learn that help in the short term. a heartburn solution for many doesn’t come in the form of a pill. Allow me to explain. A brief physical examination Normally when we swallow food, it travels down the esophagus and and consultation by your into the stomach, and the hole at chiropractor can be the the top of the stomach (the hiatus) closes, keeping food and the acidic beginning of the end of your digestive fluids contained. Under heartburn. — Dr. Daniel V. Strelcheck certain circumstances, the upper portion of the stomach actually pushes up through the hiatus causing a “hiatal hernia.” The resulting heartburn, indigestion, From a chiropractic perspective, the root acid reflux and GERD (gastro esophageal cause of the problem is not excessive digestive reflux disease) all are essentially the same acids, but instead a dysfunction of the cardiac thing. When digestive fluids leak from the sphincter (the “gate” between the stomach and stomach back into the esophagus, they cause the esophagus). pain, swelling and irritation, and damage the The cause of the dysfunction may be a mucus lining of the esophagus. This can result subluxation of the vertebrae. Subluxation is

with Dr. Daniel Strelcheck Jr. • Dr. Daniel V. Strelcheck Jr. is the chief of staff at Strelcheck Chiropractic Clinic in Crystal Lake. Feel Great Again! Go to www.strelcheckchiro.com.

when one or more of the bones of your spine move out of position, disrupting the function of the nerve that supplies the diaphragm or the esophagus. Correction of this subluxation will restore the nerve function to normal eliminate the acid reflux. As with most conditions, there is a range of severity for hiatal hernias and acid reflux from mild to moderate to severe. For mild and moderate conditions there are a number of chiropractic techniques that may help. First, a manual procedure to physically pull the stomach down below the diaphragm can be an effective and simple solution. This manual procedure can bring immediate relief or produce gradual improvement over repeated manipulations. Gentle chiropractic adjustments performed in the neck and midback can eliminate subluxations and positively affect nerves that serve the diaphragm and its related structures. A brief physical examination and consultation by your chiropractor can be the beginning of the end of your heartburn. mc

4 Antacids and a change in diet may only help stomach problems in the short term. mchenrycountymagazine.com

MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | OCTOBER 2013 | 33

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Get Better By Melissa Erickson More Content Now

As students return to school, parents need to address the growing — and alarming, as experts say — issue of sleep deprivation. Adults are at risk, too. “Seventy-nine percent of adolescents are not getting enough sleep,” said Mary Sheedy Kurcinka, parent educator, author of “Sleepless in America” and “Raising Your Spirited Child” and director of parentchildhelp.com. “Up to 40 percent of younger children are not getting enough sleep. People just do not understand how much sleep kids need.” Sleep needs vary across ages and are affected by lifestyle and health. To determine how much sleep you need, you’ll need to look at the big picture and assess how you spend your day, your stress level, work, medical conditions, diet and the environment you live in. The National Sleep Foundation offers these sleep guidelines: Newborns (0-2 months): 12-18 hours Infants (3-11 months): 14-15 hours Toddlers (1-3 years): 12-14 hours Preschoolers (3-5 years): 11-13 hours School-age children (5-10): 10-11 hours Teens (10-17): 8.5-9.25 hours Adults: 7-9 hours The squeeze on sleep is not a new problem, but it is “growing to the point of a national epidemic,” Kurcinka said. “Studies show that most kids are getting about an hour less sleep each night than they did 30 years ago.” There’s been a cultural change. “We’ve gone from one TV in the house to a TV in every bedroom, plus the distractions of video games, computers and other devices,” Kurcinka said. Stores are open 24 hours, and children are involved in scheduled activities from the early hours until late at night. It’s not just a matter of a little yawning; lack of sleep can lead to “huge health and performance issues,” said registered nurse Terry Cralle, a sleep educator who works with SleepBetter.org. “We need to make sleep a health issue right up there with diet and exercise,” Cralle said.

Risks of poor sleep

Sleep plays a critical role in thinking and learning. Exhausted adolescents do less well in school, lack concentration and have poor problem-solving skills. They have mood swings and behavior problems such as hyperactivity, Cralle said. “Many of the children diagnosed with attention

34 | OCTOBER 2013 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

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issues are actually sleep-deprived,” Cralle said. Kurcinka echoed that: “20 to 25 percent of kids with attention issues are misdiagnosed and are instead suffering from sleep disorders.” Not getting enough sleep “is jeopardizing” the health of children and teens, Cralle said. “Studies have shown that a continuing lack of sleep can lead to childhood diabetes and obesity” and put you at risk for diabetes as an adult, heart disease, heart attack, high blood pressure and stroke, Kurcinka said. The sleep solution has “to be a conscious decision that happens on two levels. Parents have to monitor kids’ bedtimes — even when they’re teenagers,” Kurcinka said.

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Tips for better sleep

A good night’s sleep starts in the morning. Have a regular wake-up time, Kurcinka said. “If you have to wake your child up and drag them out of bed, they haven’t gotten enough sleep,” Kurcinka said. Exposure to morning light helps a person feel awake, Kurcinka said: “Let your kids get outside for a few minutes before they catch the bus or better yet, walk to school.” Keeping a regular schedule with established mealtimes also benefits healthy sleep patterns. Weekends count, too, because irregular sleep schedules can affect the body’s biological clock. Sleeping poorly on the weekend results in kids having a more difficult time in school during the week, Kurcinka said. In addition to emphasizing consistent sleep patterns, some tips for better sleep include making the bedroom cool, dark and quiet, Cralle said. “Make sure they have good bedding and a comfortable mattress,” she said. Take the TV, computers and video games out of the bedroom. Avoid caffeine and keep noise levels down.

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“If I said you could do one thing for free, that would enhance your child’s performance in school, improve reading skills, promote a healthy immune system, reduce conflict, reduce accidents and reduce cavities, you’d jump at the chance,” Kurcinka said. “Here it is: Get a good night’s sleep.” mc

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mchenrycountymagazine.com

health & fitness

Healthy Harvests I By Betsy Wilhelm

A cornucopia of flavor awaits the autumn entertainer

utumn’s harvest always seems to make cooks roll up their sleeves, reach for their recipe cards and get to work in the kitchen. If you’re entertaining this season, embrace local ingredients for their freshness and flavor. Here are some of favorite fall recipes from Sandra Johnston, adjunct culinary instructor at McHenry County College, that are sure to warm up your taste buds this season, while the ingredient list keeps you both healthy and satisfied. “These recipes are healthy because they contain whole grains, good oils, good sources of fiber, and some are low fat and reduced calories,” Johnston says. Johnston, who’s also MCC’s food service director, looked at what fruits and vegetables are available seasonally. When you think fall, you think of apples and pumpkins, she says. Sweet potatoes, cranberries and root vegetables such as carrots and rutabagas are also items synonymous with the autumn season. Whatever the season, Johnston says there are many ways to make a favorite dish healthier and lower in fat. First suggestion is to look at the basic cooking method to see whether it’s healthy. “If a recipe calls for something to be deep fried, could you roast it instead?” she suggests. Johnston also recommends looking for places where you can substitute a whole-grain product for a refined product, or considering the fats used in a recipe and perhaps replacing items like butter with a healthy fat, like olive oil. “The roasted fall sweet potatoes recipe is a good alternative to the more common candied sweet 38 | OCTOBER 2013 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

potatoes you see at Thanksgiving,” she says, because it cuts out the extra sugar and plays up the natural sweetness of the vegetable.

Roasted Fall Sweet Potatoes

Ingredients: 2 large sweet potatoes (peeled and diced) 2 tablespoons olive oil Salt and pepper to taste 1/2 teaspoon thyme leaves (optional) 1/4 teaspoon marjoram leaves (optional) Procedure: Place diced potatoes in a bowl; add olive oil and herbs. Mix and coat well. Lay in a single layer on a sheet pan. Season with salt and pepper. Roast at 350 degrees until lightly browned and tender (about 30 to 40 minutes). Stir once during cooking.

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Ingredients: 1 cup wild rice (cook, drained, and chilled) 1/2 cup red apple (with the skin on; cored and chopped) 1/2 cup celery (chopped)

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1/4 cup green onion (sliced thin) 1/2 cup dried cranberries (chopped) 1/4 cup green bell pepper (chopped) 1/2 cup slivered almonds (toasted and cooled) 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar (golden preferred) 1/2 cup cranberry juice 2 tablespoons sugar 1 tablespoon olive oil 2 teaspoons fresh basil (chopped; can substitute one teaspoon dried basil) 1 teaspoon salt 6 lettuce leaves Procedure: Place rice, apples, celery, onion, cranberries, and green pepper in a bowl and mix well. Mix vinegar, cranberry juice, sugar, oil, basil and salt in a separate bowl. Wisk well. Combine rice mixture with dressing. Mix and coat well. Cover and chill 2 hours. Mix. Serve 1 cup of mix on a lettuce leaf. Top with toasted almonds.

Roast Loin of Pork with Cider Braised Fuji Apples Ingredients: 2 pounds of center cut pork loin

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1 tablespoon canola oil 3 Fuji apples (peeled, cored, and ½ inch sliced) 2 cups apple cider 1 sprig fresh thyme 2 tablespoons cornstarch 1/4 cup cold water Procedure: Heat oil in a small roasting pan. Sear all sides of pork roast until lightly browned. When finished, set with the fat side facing up. Place thyme sprig in bottom of pan. Roast one hour at 350 degrees. Remove roast from oven and add apples around the base of the roast. Add cider to pan. Cover with foil. Return to oven and cook an additional 20 to 30 minutes until pork is minimum of 145 degrees internal temperature and apples are tender. Remove pork and apples to hold until service. Bring pan juices to a simmer. Season as needed. Mix cornstarch with cold water and dissolve. Add slowly to liquid and wisk continuously until lightly thickened. Simmer 3 minutes more. Slice pork. Lay apples over pork and top with cider sauce.

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Dear Dave

dining & entertaining

Every month I get e-mails with ideas and suggestions for this column, I also get lots of industry questions and concerns based on personal experiences. I’d like use this month’s space to address some of them in a condensed format I call “Dear Dave.” Dear Dave: Every time my wife and I visit a restaurant it seems we have an over aggressive bus boy constantly asking if we are done. Sometimes I’m afraid to put my fork down fearful my dinner will be snatched away. Dave: This is probably the number one complaint I get. There are plenty of reasons why it happens but here is the cure: tell your server when ordering that you do not want your table cleared until you ask. This does two things. A, it solves your problem and B, it takes the burden off you and puts it on the one person who is most concerned with your experience and will get the job done; the tipped server. Dear Dave: My husband and I are senior citizens and really object to being referred to as “guys” or “honey” and “sweetie” from a server barely out of their teens. Whatever happened to Sir and Ma’am, and why do they have to tell me they are my server today, do they think we can’t figure that out? Dave: Both of these can be overlooked, but for some reason bother people a lot. The reason is lack of training and poor people skills, a product of our casual society. Simply refer to your server

with the same term they used for you and then identify yourselves as their customer today. They will get the point and it usually ends in a mutual laugh and a much wiser server. It also is important to tip accordingly, rewarding those great servers.

Dear Dave: Why do so few restaurants accept reservations? Seems to me they would prefer reservations.

Dear Dave: My wife is a coupon queen, and it seems we always have a coupon when we go out. Several times we have been denied because the coupon expired or had a condition on it we missed. Since I’m already there, isn’t it in their interest to honor it?

Dave: The reason here falls into several categories. Every restaurant has to turn tables to be successful. To accept reservations, they now have to limit the turns on that table. Also, many people make reservations and don’t show up. Some restaurants now require a credit card to hold a reservation, (really not a good business practice, as it makes a lot of people uneasy). I suggest, especially if you have a large party, call ahead and ask. Even if they don’t take reservations you can find out the best time to come in. mc

Dave: This comes up a lot and we have addressed it before. You should always read the conditions of your coupon Please keep those before purchasing e-mails coming. Let me it and before you know your new favorite go to use it. With restaurant, pet peeve today’s massive or latest trend. Even if internet marketers, I don’t use it here, I many restaurants will answer it and send use this as a loss leader you free dinner. Let or a LTO (limited time me hear from you at offer). My best advice is clribhouse@att.net. to always make sure the site you are buying from is reputable (the world of coupon marketing is bigger than you can imagine) and with David Faccone don’t buy any • David Faccone is the owner/chef of Crystal Lake coupon that has Rib House and brings conditions you can’t live 30 years of experience in the restaurant business to with.

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dining & entertaining

PETITE PETIT — PETITE SIRAH $17 It doesn’t get much bigger and fruitier than this delicious quaff. There is nothing petite about the flavor. Ripe fruit bombards the palate before giving way to a finish that seems to last forever.

wine continues to grow in popularity wineries are struggling with how to get their product recognized. Labels are the first line of defense. A lot of dollars are being spent trying to position a label so it catches the consumer’s attention. There’s nothing wrong with that, as long as the juice in the bottle delivers. Problems ensue when winemakers spend so much money on marketing they can’t put as much into the wine itself. That becomes the dilemma. We’ve tasted way too many wines that are all labels and no taste. Tread cautiously when being tempted by wines which seduce you with their flashy packaging instead of just giving you what you ultimately want — yummy juice. TROUBLEMAKER — Red $15 Everyone has a troublemaker in the family, so this label is a no-brainer. But the wine is smart, a syrah-based beauty that’s loaded with rich, dark fruit, showing a touch of espresso on the long finish. ROLLER COASTER — RED $12 Who doesn’t love a roller coaster? This action-packed wine is a delicious blend of zinfandel, petite sirah and merlot. It’s bursting with ripe, black cherry and blueberry notes with a gentle kiss of cocoa powder on lengthy, smooth finish.

IF YOU SEE KAY — CABERNET SAUVIGNON $20 If this label doesn’t catch your attention then you might want to get your eyes checked. From rebel winemaker Jayson Woodbridge, this cabernet from Italy is packed with loads of dark fruit, showing depth and richness not often found at this price range. mchenrycountymagazine.com

CARNIVOR — CABERNET SAUVIGNON $10 From the same people that gave us the runaway hit wine Apothic, comes this new addition to the line-up. With its name, you can safely assume this wine pairs well with meat. Bold dark fruit cascades over the palate before surrendering to a finish caressed with dusty tannins. It just begs for a steak at its side.

FORCE OF NATURE — CABERNET SAUVIGNON $24 We would be the first to admit we like a good label. With all the dull ones out there, this one really stood out. But we had to cross our fingers and hope it tasted as good as it looked. Well, it was so good the cool label actually takes a back seat to the wine, which forcefully delivers gobs of ripe fruit before exposing a finish layered with toasted oak and chocolate. mc

A Little Bird Told Me

with Cardinal Wine & Spirits

Than Just A Pretty Label

• Bruce Garfield, president of Cardinal Wine & Spirits in Crystal Lake; Jeremy Brock, general manager of Cardinal Wine & Spirits; and Scot Stadalsky, the wine guy at Cardinal Wine & Spirits, offer more than 70 years of combined experience in the wine and liquor industry to McHenry County.

MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | OCTOBER 2013 | 43

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home & lifestyle

Fall Table Trends

Personalized Decorating and Design Services Interior Design Residential & Commercial Model Homes In-Home Consultations Redesign & Staging Custom Window Treatments Hunter Douglas Blinds Custom Wall Treatments Furniture & Reupholstery Soft Furnishings Accessories & Florals

5 “Reds, golds and oranges are trending this fall,” according to merchandiser John Griffith.

aying goodbye to summer doesn’t have to be a sentimental ending when you consider it’s also a beginning — the kick off to autumn and the holiday season. Now is a great time to dress up your home for fall entertaining. “Colors that evoke a sense of nostalgia and family are a really big part of the visual design message for autumn 2013,” says visual merchandiser John Griffith. “Reds, golds and oranges are trending this fall. These hues are not only warm and comforting; they’re reflective of the season.” Griffith and teammate Julie Robbins add their own unique spin on the latest trends to create seasonal design vignettes for Replacements, Ltd., the world’s largest retailer of old and new china, crystal, silver and collectibles. Easy ways to mix in great fall colors include adding a charger plate or colorful serving pieces. “I’m big on the pressed vintage patterns; depression glass, coin glass and sandwich glass are all very lovely and nostalgic,” Robbins says. Metal servingware is another popular — and functional — trend this fall. Once heated, the alloy retains warmth to keep food warmer longer or cooler if you chill these pieces, Robbins says. Using natural elements on the table also evoke a sense of Thanksgiving. “I suggest filling vases, glasses or serving bowls with dried beans, acorns or even kernels of dried deer corn. Not only does this look pretty, you can also mix in candles or flowers and use these natural elements to hold those items in place,” Robbins says. mc

847.854.8892 WhiteOakInteriors.com carmen@whiteoakinteriors.com

Algonquin, IL

— More Content Now

45 | OCTOBER 2013 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

mchenrycountymagazine.com

home & lifestyle

HOME design

WINDOWS to the WORLD Brighten your outlook, with new trends in windows and window décor

the season’s change and autumn’s chill hits the air, it might leave you wondering if it’s time for new windows. Pat Creasy, general manager of Blue Ribbon Millwork, supplier of quality windows and cabinets in Woodstock, says there are some indicators to look out for when making the decision to repair or replace. “Are they leaking air? Is there water coming in around them? That’s a good opportunity to start looking at the windows and seeing if it’s time to replace them,” he says. Also, poor energy performance could be a valid concern, and a reason for an upgrade. “Are they old single pane windows and need to be updated for energy efficiency? Sometimes they just don’t operate well anymore,” Creasy said. Once you know it’s time to replace the windows, the task becomes finding the right place to handle the job. And if you never have replaced windows or purchased new ones before, it can be a daunting and unfamiliar task. 46 | OCTOBER 2013 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

I By ERIN SAUDER

Creasy says the questions homeowners and fiberglass. should ask deal with quality of glass, “Vinyl windows are huge in the window serviceability and options. business because they’re basically a “What type of installation do they do,” maintenance free product,” Creasy says. he suggests asking. “Could you replace the It also is a less expensive choice, he notes. window without “Vinyl is more economical. replacing all the Fiberglass is a little more expensive. trim? If you do a full They all have their place in the tearout, you take the market for what people want,” old window out, get Creasy says. back down to rough Homeowners should be able stud and put in a to get a few decades out of their whole new unit. Or I windows, if not more. can do a replacement “Most windows have a 20window within the year warranty for seal failure,” opening where I can Creasy says. “But a good quality leave the existing window that’s maintained properly, trim.” meaning it needs to be cleaned “In any home, and lubricated, there’s no reason glass is an area where it wouldn’t be able to last 25 to 30 you’re going to lose years easily.” the most heat (in And double-hung windows, cold weather) and —Pat Creasy, which have two sashes that slide up gain the most heat general manager of and down, continue to be popular. (in hot weather),” Blue Ribbon Millwork “It’s a number one seller in any Creasy says. “A wall company,” Creasy said. is a much better Looking for a way to make those insulator than a new windows pop? Consider a fresh window piece of glass, but it’s a necessity. So ask, treatment option. ‘What kind of glass do you offer?’” “I think it entails not only choosing both Window frames come in a variety of the perfect fabric and design that enhance materials, including aluminum, vinyl, wood,

In any home, glass is an area where you’re going to lose the most heat ... and gain the most heat.

m c hMcHenryCountyMagazine.com enrycountymagazine.com

bathroom and still have the shade lowered the windows and the room, but also small down halfway so you can have natural light,” Window of owner details,” says Julie Brown, she says. “You just protect the ‘view in’ on Designs by Julie in Algonquin. “Beautiful the lower half of your window by lowering decorative trim, some interesting drapery the shade down halfway.” hardware used either for decorative drapery Bryan Von Bruenchenhein, owner of panels or decorative valances that accents Midwest Plantation Shutters in Spring other decorative elements already in the Grove, said shutters are a higher-end room, a beautiful contrast fabric used in window treatment than basic wood blinds. combination with the main fabric for the His store specializes in custom plantation project.” shutters, blinds and shades. She adds popular window treatment Von Bruenchenhein said while choices include decorative he sells drapery both real panels basswood framing a “Interior plantation window, and poly shutters are a and roman wood shades. timeless window shutters, “I also the real treatment that have believe basswood been around for that, for tends to many years. ... They the most be a more add appearance.” part, the popular — Bryan Von Bruenchenhein, window purchase. owner of Midwest Plantation treatment Shutters in Spring Grove “Interior trends plantation are more shutters are tailored, a timeless straight-lined, window treatment somewhat more for many years,” around been have that minimal than they were a decade ago,” she make the features Customizable said. he says. “Of course, that trend will only be choice convenient and charming a shutters true in homes that are decorated in a more Bruenchenhein Von and homeowners, for who clients have still I transitional style, and said they can do wonders to spruce up a have way more traditional décor, with more room. draping of fabric vs. a tailored style.” “They add appearance,” he says. “You can One trend Brown is seeing is the “topup a room and make it brighter if you open shade. Roman down/bottom-up” fabric go with a light color. Or you can warm a “I love those because you can still have room if you go with a stain.” mc privacy in a bedroom, office, or master 6 “ ... For the most part, the window treatment trends are more tailored, straight-lined, somewhat more minimal than they were a decade ago,” according to Julie Brown, owner of Window Designs by Julie. Photo provided by Window Designs by Julie in Algonquin

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48 | OCTOBER 2013 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

SHAKESPEARE: This is exactly what you think - every Shakespeare work in one app. It includes scene summaries, a glossary, quotes and more. This app is for iOS only, but you can find Shakespeare apps for Android, too. Free for iOS. mc http://readdle.com — More Content Now

mchenrycountymagazine.com

H OME resource guide McHenry County Magazine

Find contacts for top home professionals in interior design, kitchen design, construction, and many other home-related ﬁelds. Whether you are a new or established home owner, you will ﬁnd places and products of interest in this monthly guide!

Interior Design WHITE OAK INTERIORS, Algonquin, 847-854-8892, www.whiteoakinteriors.com

Painting

Additions

From inspiration to installation you can have your space “Carmenized.” White Oak Interiors has the training and expertise to plan, schedule, execute and manage your project from start to ﬁnish. Creating attractive, affordable spaces designed speciﬁcally to meet your needs.

INTERIOR INSPIRATION, Algonquin, 847-854-2966, www.interiorinspiration.com

SURAN BUILT, INC. 30 N. Williams Street, Crystal Lake 815-444-1293, www.suranbuilt.com Does your kitchen or bathroom need to be updated? Does your basement need to be turned into a great family living space? If so, then stop at our beautiful showroom in downtown Crystal Lake Wholesale Carpets and see how we can make your house the home of your dream!

GUARDIAN PAINTERS AND DECK RESTORATION, 847-444-1482 Complete preparation. Homes repainted, decks, cleaned, stained and sealed. Call for a free estimate.

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.

MUELLER INTERIOR, 440 W. Virginia St., Crystal Lake, 815-477-0400 www.muellerinteriors.com Muller Interiors for ALL your design needs! Stop into our AWARD WINNING showroom/workroom. WE do the work! We offer complete home decorating. Draperies, Hunter Douglas Blinds, Reupholstery, NEW Furniture, Area Rugs, Fabrics, Accessories, and more. Color consults to complete decorating projects. Family owned and operated. Downtown quality & style at McHenry County Pricing! “WE MAKE YOUR HOUSE A HOME”

NORTHWESTERN NORTHWESTERN SUNROOMS SUNROOMS

Sunrooms, Porch Porch Conversions, Sunrooms, Conversions, Gazebos,Awnings, Awnings, Vinyl Vinyl Glazing Blinds, Gazebos, GlazingRepair, Repair, Blinds, Shades, Draperies. Shades, Draperies. Please call for an appointment. Please call for an appointment. 9247 S. Rt. 31, Lake in the Hills 9247 S. Rt. 31, Lake in the Hills 815-459-9078 815-459-9078

Flooring

Kitchen Design KITCHENS BY JULIE, INC., 27-A Janus Rd., Cary, 847-516-2226, www.kitchensbyjulie.com 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.

WHOLESALE CARPETS, 502 Northwest Hwy Fox River Grove, 847-639-1855, www.wholesalecarpets.net We have everything from carpet to hardwood, ceramic, cork ﬂooring and area rugs. Our installers work exclusively for us! They’re hand picked for their experience and professional looking installations. Stop by and see for yourself, we’re bigger than we look.

To have your business included in this guide, contact your representative at 815-459-4040.

fashion & beauty

I By Betsy Wilhelm

NAIL It! DIY Tips From A Manicure Pro

eople have been painting their nails in every color of the rainbow for decades. Today, salons offer more choices than ever, from patterns and appliques to gels and

tips. But the classic French tip manicure remains one of the most popular choices for both formal and everyday occasions. This nail look works well with everything from jeans to a wedding dress. “The French manicure is a classic look that never gets old,” says Lisa Marach, co-owner of Profile Salon and Spa in Algonquin. “It’s clean looking and matches everything.” Marach says a French manicure polishes nails in two colors, one for the bed of the nail and another for the tip. French manicures create a polished and professional look that typically duplicates the natural nail in pink and white, but modern variations using other colors are becoming more and more popular, as well, she says The traditional French manicure is being combined with nail art and sometimes the color combinations are altered for a new and unique look. Black tips instead of white ones are becoming a more common option. “Some people even opt for glittered nail tips and a naturaltone nail bed,” Marach says. “Or a glittery or shimmery sheer instead of a solid.” If you are looking to try your hand at a classic French tip manicure you need white nail polish and pink nail polish. Marach recommends using OPI’s Alpine Snow for the white polish and OPI’s Bubble Bath for the pink polish (both $9 at ULTA). You also need a base coat polish and a top coat polish. Marach suggests CND’s Stickey Base Coat ($8.50 at ULTA) and Seche Vite Dry Fast Top Coat ($7.99 at Sally Beauty Supply). She anticipates it will take between a half-hour and 45 minutes to complete a French tip manicure at home.

50 | OCTOBER 2013 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

Step 1: Prep your nails Before you can begin adding color to your nails, you need to get them ready. Start by trimming your nails to the desired length, making sure they’re all even. Next, determine what type of shape you’d like your nails to be (either rounded or square). Then grab a nail file and get to work. To really recreate the nail salon experience at home, dip your hands in a bowl of warm water, whole milk or olive oil and let them soak for a couple of minutes. This softens your cuticles and makes them easier to remove. Then take a cuticle pusher and gently push your cuticles back. Before applying your first coat of polish, you need to buff the top of your nails to get them ready for it. Next step is cleaning your nails. Marach says you can use alcohol or acetone to clean the nail bed of oil and get it ready for polish.

Step 2: Base coat and pink polish Next, apply one layer of your base coat, which helps to anchor color to the nail to prevent peeling and chipping. After the base coat dries, paint on a thin layer of the pink polish over your entire nail, and let your nails dry for a couple of minutes. To give your nails a richer look, repeat this step again with a second coat of pink polish. Let them dry completely before moving on.

Step 3: The white tips

Once your nails have dried, use the white polish to lightly brush color onto the tips of your nails, as if you were creating an upside down smile, Marach says. This is often the most difficult step of the French tip manicure and requires a steady hand. Marach says the use of a small nail brush will help you create the white tips more easily. Dip the brush in acetone and slowly drag it along the inside of the white strip you have painted, remembering to imitate the shape of your nail with a slight curve. You’ll have to replicate this several times to get a smooth line. Wait for your white tips to dry. Now is the time to touch up any areas of the pink polish that need fixing. Marach says an alternative to using white polish to create the tips is to use nail strips.

Step 4: It’s your time to shine!

Last step is the top coat, which gives nails a high-gloss shine. Finish off the French tip manicure by applying the top coat polish to each nail. Allow this coat to dry for several minutes “Practice and patience are key when doing a French manicure at home,” Marach says. DIY not your style? Relax in the comfort of the spa, chat with a girlfriend and leave your fingertips in the hands of an expert. Profile Salon and Spa is open at 268 S. Randall Road in Algonquin. mc

mchenrycountymagazine.com

fashion & beauty

t seems that our electronics and other pragmatic gadgets have become like extra appendages to many. We are hooked up, tuned in and connected everywhere we go. Cell phones, iPods, and iPads have become as common in our lives as the television set or a toaster. Now, many are treating their electronics with the same fashionable focus as they do other accessories, like watches, bracelets and purses, making once utilitarian items fun, personalized and attractive to have around. “It’s people taking what they are using for their everyday productive needs and having a little fun with it,” says Ann Nevills, owner of Clix, 33 N. Williams St. in downtown Crystal Lake. Nevills says people want to “put their own personal stamp” on the everyday gadgets and utilitarian accessories. And at Clix she sells a variety of items to do just that. How about a “blinged-out” calculator, loaded with rhinestones? Or oversized calculators in red or pink? “They are cute and fun and your husband wouldn’t steal it,” she says.

iPhones And Earbuds Nevills suggests iPhone covers that can be changed out to match your outfit such as The Jet Set Collection, ranging in prices $37.50 to $42.50 for a set of two covers. This collection mixes up colors with metal finishes of gold and silver. Decorative rhinestoned earbuds, and

I By Amanda Marrazzo

earbuds with little bunny faces, bunny ears, robot faces, google eyes and those that look like little screws all are available. There also is The Bunny Buddy, which are earbuds that have a bunny attached to the cord where you can wrap the excess cord around the bunny ears. This helps to keep dangling wire out of your way. Whimsical iPhone stands are popular sellers as well. These are sold in a range of prices and are used to prop up an iPhone to watch a movie or TV show hands free.

Other Things Bling

Clix also sells charming USB port hubs in various shapes including a mouse or a poodle. These are useful in plugging in a variety of electronic gadgets while keeping your desktop tidy.

Another area seeing more attention as a fashion accessory are lanyards. No longer just a black cord dangling around one’s neck, today’s lanyards are neckware with a purpose, either to hold an ID or a pair of glasses. Some are bedazzled with rhinestones, beads and crystals, combined with lucite, gold or silver for a dressy, formal look. For a more casual and fun look there are light-weight cloth lanyards available in a variety of flashy colors and patterns such as animal prints, colorful stripes and burberry. Chloe Brunke, co-owner of The Blingy Gal Boutique, 117 S. State St. in Marengo, offers a few options to spark up electronic gadgets as well. Sparkly, rhinestoned iPad covers in zebra, leopard, cheetah patterns appeal to the girl in us all, while covers that boast the American Flag, the Union Jack and a rainbow of colors also are available. For the iPod, Blingy Gal sells shiny metallic covers in assorted color patterns, and campy comment cases for the iPhone 4 and iPhone 5. These show off fun phrases such as “Stay Calm and Text On,” as well as sports themes like “Soccer Mom,” “I love basketball,” and “I love football.” Other fashionable iPhone covers include skulls, a mustache and the Eiffel Tower, says Brunke. For the computer, Blingy Gal even sells a hot pink rhinestoned mouse, guaranteed to brighten up your online routine. Blingy Gal’s Ellen Kaduk says personalizing electronics and other functional accessories is all the rage. “It’s the new hot fad,” she says. “They bling everything now.” mc

stars of the theatre’s auditorium and featuring unique out & about appetizers from local restaurants, signature cocktails, upbeat orchestral music, a live auction and more! Tickets Monster to life as you never have experienced him before. are $150. For tickets or more information, call 815-356-9212 Tickets are $26. For tickets or more information, call 815or visit www.rauecenter.org. 338-5300 or visit www.woodstockoperahouse.com. October 12 — Big Bad Voodoo Daddy 8 p.m. at Raue Center for the Arts, 26 N. Williams Street in Crystal Lake Big Bad Voodoo Daddy will perform songs from their Through October 27 — Donley’s Wild West Town new album, “Rattle Them Bones.” Tickets start at $47. For Fall Festival Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. at tickets or more information, call 815-356-9212 or visit www. Donley’s Wild West Town, rauecenter.org. 8512 S. Union Road in Union October 18 — Lucy’s Cafe: Patty Fall Festival is more Vasquez 8 p.m. at Raue Center for the Arts, 26 N. Williams Street in Crystal Lake than the average pumpkin One time single party-girl Patti Vasquez, patch, offering a variety now a wife, mother and breadwinner of Halloween festivities losing herself in the daily chaos of including spooky train rides, raising her family decides to reclaim her entertaining attractions sanity by bringing her “sexy” back. Patti and a pumpkin painting Donley’s Wild West shares the hilarious and honest stories contest. Tickets are $16, of what it takes to go from “Mommy!” to Town Fall Festival and include all attractions “Mamalicious!” Tickets are $20. For tickets and activities. For more or more information, call 815356-9212 or visit www.rauecenter.org. information, call 815-923-9000 or visit www.wildwesttown. October 19 — St. Paul’s Country Craft com. Fair 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at St. Paul’s UCC Church, 485 October 5 — Hooved Animal Humane Society Woodstock Street in Crystal Lake Picnic and Fun Show 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at HAHS Farm, 10804 There will be approximately 50 area crafters McConnell Road in Woodstock participating, as well as a booth by the St. Paul’s The day starts with a fun horse show, followed by live Crafters, who meet all year to prepare beautiful music. The Midwest Renegades will be performing during items for the fair. The event is free. For more the lunch hour in between the horse show. The McHenry information, call 815-459-5096 or visit www. County Animal Shelter will be bringing adoptable animals stpaulsucccl.org. October 27 — Dracula 3 p.m. at the for you to meet as well! A kid’s area will be set up with Woodstock Opera House, 121 W. Van Buren inflatable games. A $5 entry fee includes unlimited access Street in Woodstock all day long. For more information, call 815-337-5563 or visit Experience the emotional thrill of Bram Stoker’s gothic http://www.hahs.org. masterpiece in this elegantly horrific one-woman show by Megan Wells. With depth and charisma Megan brings the

EVENTS

ARTS

October 3 — Duo del Sol 7 p.m. at the Stage Left Cafe, 125 W. Van Buren Street in WoodstockThis violin and guitar firebrand takes no prisoners. Their powerful and evocative music results in a highly energetic stage show. Tickets are $15 per person. For more information, call 815-337-1395 or visit www.woodstockoperahouse.com. October 4 – 19 — Shout! The Mod Musical Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m. at the Woodstock Opera House, 121 W. Van Buren Street in Woodstock SHOUT! Is the mod musical magazine that brings back the beautiful birds and smashing sounds that made England swing in the ’60s. Tickets are $23. For tickets or more information, call 815-3384212 or visit www.woodstockoperahouse.com. October 5 — Stargazers Ball 7 p.m. at Raue Center for the Arts, 26 N. Williams Street in Crystal Lake Raue Center’s largest annual fundraiser set under the

4 4 continued on pg 55

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artist

showcase CONNIE SONNENBERG | Crystal Lake “LOOKING GLASS” Pastel on watercolor paper (facing page) It was a beautiful summer day in Crystal Lake and while enjoying the weather in my yard, the thought came to me to stage these items for a reference photo. Being an equestrian, I couldn’t help but add my horse in the reflection of the wine glass. “SPILLED MILK” oil on stretched

canvas (below) This is a very mischievous cat, caught in the action of curiosity, guilt and fear.

Connie Sonnenberg has been a local artist in Crystal Lake for the past 15 years. Many of those years she spent working on commissioned horse and dog portraits. The past several years, however, she has branched out and is now producing more contemporary works. Sonnenberg was one of two featured artists at the Lakeside Legacy Foundation inside the Dole Mansion this past February. In September 2012 Sonnenberg received “Best of Acrylic 2012” at Art in the Barn in Barrington. Sonnenberg works out of her home in Crystal Lake where she has a home studio. mc

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

4 4 continued from pg 53 October 6 — 18th Century Clothing and Accessories 12:30 p.m.-2 p.m. or 3 p.m.-4:30 p.m. at Colonel Palmer House, 660 E. Terra Cotta Road in Crystal Lake Relax in Mrs. Palmer’s parlors while discovering the unique history of 18th century clothing and accessories. For residents, it is $15 for adults and $10 for children under 12; for non-residents, it is $23 for adults and $15 for children under 12. To register or for more information, call 815-477-5837 or visit www.crystallakeparks.org. October 6 — 3rd Annual Paws for a Cause Community Dog Walk 12 p.m. at Horse Fair Park, 8199 Blivin Street in Spring Grove Come out for a walk and have fun raising money for the Centegra Gavers Breast Center and Breast Care Fund! Don’t have a dog? No problem! You can still walk in the event. Costs start at $15. To register or for more information, call 815-675-2008 or visit www.pawsforacausewalk.org. October 6 — 36th Annual Cider Festival 10 a.m.-4 p.m. at the McHenry County Historical Society Museum, 6422 Main Street in Union Featuring musical entertainment by Charlie B and Friends. Throughout the day there will be harvest demonstrations, including broom making and old fashioned cider making. Sign up your team to throw shoes or simply watch our inaugural horseshoe tournament. An apple goodies bakery, kettle corn, book, antique clothing, and white elephant sale and food will be available. The museum, the Gannon 1843 log cabin and 1895 West Harmony one-room school are also open free all day. For more information, call 815-923-2267 or visit www. mchsonline.org. October 9 — Ladies Night at Park Place 406 W. Woodstock Street in Crystal Lake Join Tina Bree & Joe Cicero from Star 105.5 for raffles, drinks, purses, and jewelry. Free admission. For more information, call Lauren at 815-477-5871 or visit www. crystallakeparks.org. October 12 — Free Airplane Rides for Kids 9 a.m.12 p.m. at Lake in the Hills Airport, 8407 Pyott Road in Lake in the Hills EAA Chapter 790 donates their time and aircraft to give the experience of flight to kids ages 8-17. First come, first served. Come out and enjoy your local airport. For more information, call 847-226-0074. October 19 — Truck or Treat 10 a.m.-12 p.m. at the Main Beach, 300 Lake Shore Drive in Crystal Lake Kids, come dressed in your Halloween costume and trick or treat while checking out some big trucks. Don’t forget a candy bag. For more information, call Connie at 815-459-0680 at ext. 213 or visit www. crystallakeparks.org. October 19 & 20 — Trail of History 9 a.m.-4 p.m. both days at Glacial Park, Route 31 and Harts Road in Ringwood Take part in this living history reenactment of the Northwest Territory from 16701850 presented by the McHenry

out & about County Conservation District. Interpreters from across the country portray settler life and demonstrate the interrelationship between nature, man and cultural development. Featuring family activities, demonstrations, food and entertainment. Tickets are $6 for adults and $3 for kids ages 6-12. Children under 5 are free. For more information, call 815-479-5779 or visit www.mccdistrict.org. October 20 — Hound Town Halloween Bash 2 p.m. at Lippold Park, on Route 176 west of Route 14 in Crystal Lake Bring your special dog dressed in costume for Trick or Treat fun. You do not need to be a member of Hound Town to participate. For more information, call Connie at 815-4590680 ext. 213 or visit www.crystallakeparks.org. October 20 — Care 4 Breast Cancer 5K Run/Walk 8:30 a.m. at Woodstock North High School, 3000 Raffel Road in Woodstock This event will raise funds for breast cancer screenings, education, outreach and other services for the uninsured and underinsured women and men in McHenry County. Register online before October 16th for $25. Late registration is $30. To register or for more information, call 815-334-8987 ext.25 or visit http://hpclinic.org. October 26 — Fall Color Canoe Trip 9 a.m.-3 p.m. at Glacial Park, 6316 Harts Road in Ringwood If you are already skilled in basic river canoeing techniques, this canoe trip on Nippersink Creek is for you. Paddle seven miles from Pioneer Road Landing to Nippersink Canoe Base, to enjoy the beautiful colors of changing leaves along its banks. The group will stop for a picnic, so pack a sack lunch and bring water, sunscreen, bug spray, and wear shoes suitable for wading. Cost is $8 for residents and $10 for non-residents. For more information, call 815-479-5779 or visit www.mccdistrict.org. October 31 — 2013 Halloween Handout 3 p.m.-5 p.m. in Downtown Crystal Lake A favorite among young children! Participating merchants throughout Downtown Crystal Lake will open their doors to invite costumed children 12 and under to receive a treat. For more information, visit http://www. downtowncl.org. mc

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