MCM-1-1-2014

10

HEALTHY

resolutions you can keep

JANUARY 2014

PAGE 14

sport good

Local coach leads by example page 8

Pet Project

CASE Hospital takes special care of your furry companions

6

page 24

Easy Being Green

Local retailers strive to be eco-consious page 30

415 S. Main St., Crystal Lake, IL 60014

815-444-8065

INSIDE Health & Fitness 8 Good sport: CrossFit trainer and weightlifting coach Jyllianne Czanstkowski builds muscle and confidence in her students, players and team members.

11 Running for water: Woodstock nurse Anne Weirich hits the pavement to quench the thrist of impoverished African families.

12 Raising the barre on exercise: Emerging fitness trend takes classes to the ballet barre in a workout that builds core strength and tones muscles.

14 Commit to a better you! Healthy resolutions you can keep in 2014.

16 Fit, at any age: A healthy lifestyle need not wait on middle age. Young and old are getting out and getting fit together, and reaping the rewards of healthy family activities.

19 VITAL SIGNS: Chiropractor Daniel Strelcheck discusses the benfits of a naturally-focused pregnancy.

Family in Focus 21 Building a family: For couples struggling with fertility issues, good all-around health can be the key to success.

22 What I gained, helping others lose: Family columnist Michelle Stien reflects on the benefits of fitness, for herself and her family.

Home & Lifestyle

42

You win customers every time they come in. You make them happy ... you get to know them — their wives and kids.

— Larry Smith, manager, Benedict’s LaStrata

24 The CASE for care: Emergency animal hospital offers care for your furry companions, at the time when you most need it.

30 It’s easy being green: Local companies provide ways to keep home, and earth a healthier place to live.

Fashion & Beauty

38 Knit-witty: Keep cozy in great knits from head to toe. Our favorites from across the area will keep you in style all season long.

Dining & Entertaining 42 The most important meal: Boasting artisan ingredients that often rival fine dining, breakfast has come into its own, and taken its place as a meal to savor.

Out & About 44 Social Life: Leading by example — Supporters of Big Brothers and Big Sisters of McHenry County came out for an evening of food, drink and fundraising fun.

45 Calendar: The array of fundraisers, classes and local events fill the month across our communities.

46 Artist Showcase: Franki Martin shares her metal and clay creations.

A new year

is a great time to tackle new challenges, embark on new adventures, and embrace resolutions for a healthy, happy life.

In this month’s McHenry County Magazine, we showcase health and fitness from a variety of perspectives.

We meet Jyllianne Czanstkowski, an amazing coach and who is both a cheerleader to her students and a driven athlete in her own right. We talk with Anne Weirich, an unassuming marathon runner who found her passion for the pavement raising funds for charity. And a host of local health and fitness experts offer tips and ideas to keep you on track and on focus to meet your wellness goals all year long.

A closer look is taken at a new fitness trend — ballet barre fitness — which is expanding and opening in studios across Northern Illinois. Get fit the way dancers do, without ever stepping into toe shoes.

But health concerns often delve deeper than weight loss or muscle toning. For families facing fertility issues, we talk with experts about what to consider and what to look out for when weighing the options for treatment.

And when talking about health, let’s not forget the other, furrier members of the family. Innovative care for emergencies and alternative therapies are offered through Companion Animal Specialty & Emergency Hospital in Crystal Lake. Specialists there walk us through all that is offered, and explain the differences between an emergency service and other veterinary offices.

It’s cold outside, and you might be tempted to cozy up on the sofa, but we encourage you to get out and enjoy winter this month. We have knits you can wear to keep hands and heads warm and great spots for hot and hearty breakfasts to start your day off right.

We hope to see you out and about all month long, in McHenry County.

Thanks for reading.

Sherri Dauskurdas Editor

Published by Shaw Media 7717 S. Route 31, Crystal Lake, IL 60014 Phone: 815-459-4040 Fax: 815-477-4960 www.McHenryCountyMagazine.com Editor Sherri Dauskurdas 630-427-6209 sdauskurdas@shawmedia.com Designer Allison McCaleb 815-526-4485 amccaleb@shawmedia.com Correspondents Yvonne Benson, Allison Horne, Amanda Marrazzo, Elizabeth Harmon, Marek Makowski Photographers Ron McKinney, Joe Shuman, Jason Adrian, Robin Pendergrast, Zach Walters, Jason Pfrommer Magazine Publisher J. Tom Shaw jtshaw@shawmedia.com President / Shaw Media John Rung jrung@shawmedia.com

on the

COVER

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.

STRONG & BEAUTIFUL: Whether it’s weightlifting, volleyball or crosstraining, Jyllianne Czantkowski

leads her athletes with a fearless, competitive spirit and a passion for coaching others to success.

Page 8 Photos by RON McKINNEY | Cover inset photo by JASON PFROMMER

6 | JANUARY 2014 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

mchenrycountymagazine.com

Dr. Stephen Rivard (left) and Claudia Linda (right) at IVS’ offices

“I knew I had spider veins, but had no idea I had underlying vein disease, too.”

Claudia Linda, well-known North Shore Spanish teacher, came to Illinois Vein Specialists after several years of intending to have her spider veins examined. In her mind it was strictly a cosmetic issue that she’d eventually get around to improving.

She was actually a bit surprised when Dr. Rivard and his team at Illinois Vein Specialists insisted on a thorough exam of both legs including specialized ultrasonography by IVS’ certified technicians.

What she didn’t know is that spider veins in the legs are frequently associated with underlying venous hypertension. Dr. Rivard points out: “High pressure in the veins inside the legs is caused when the vein valves break and the flow of blood falls backwards. This pressure forces its way to the surface veins distending the small capillaries causing the appearance of spider veins. This typically occurs below the knees and especially at the ankles.”

Other factors in the development of spider veins include: Age: The development of spider veins can occur at any time, but usually peaks in late middle age.

Gender: Women are four times more likely to have spider veins than men.

Pregnancy: Hormones are thought to weaken vein walls and this is coupled with increased blood volume during pregnancy that tends to distend veins.

Lifestyle/Occupation: Daily activities requiring pro-longed sitting or standing are also implicated in the development of spider veins.

Claudia, as a middle-aged teacher and mother, was a perfectly typical candidate for spider veins.

BUT HERE’S WHERE THE STORY GETS INTERESTING She actually had symptoms of underlying vein disease for several years, but never recognized them.

They were a bit vague, occurred intermittently and then disappeared, and never really triggered the medical alarm bell we all have in our heads.

For example, every once in a while Claudia’s right leg had a dull ache without a seeming explanation, but then it would go away. And now and then she would suffer from restless leg syndrome in the same right leg for a couple of nights and then it would disappear. And this went off and on for years. There just didn’t seem to be anything to tell a doctor about.

PHLEBOLOGY,THE NEWEST MEDICAL SPECIALTY Dr. Rivard again: “Phlebology, the diagnosis and treatment of vein disease, is the newest Board Certified medical specialty—recognized only since 2008. My colleagues and I are discovering new aspects to vein disease on a regular basis.”

tension, whether painful or not, whether visible or not, cannot be ignored any more than arterial hypertension (usually called high blood pressure) can be ignored. Vein disease will only get worse if left untreated and will also interfere with wound healing, congestive heart disease and other medical conditions.

Illinois Vein Specialists opened in 2009 and has a staff of a dozen—physicians, registered nurses, medical technicians, ultrasound specialists and administrative personnel. Since then they have helped thousands of patients. “One of the things I like the best about specializing in vein disease is the opportunity to meet wonderful people like Claudia Linda; being able to help them is the reason I get up in the morning.”

To find out how Illinois Vein Specialists, A Center of Excellence in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Vein Disease™, might be able to help you: call for an appointment at 847-277-9100, stop by our offices at 22285 Pepper Rd, (suite 105), Lake Barrington and look at our “brag book” or visit us on-line at www.IllinoisVeinSpecialists.com.

The field has rapidly developed to the point where internists and family practice doctors, who received their degrees in the twentieth century, may not fully be aware of the latest thinking. “I’m still surprised when I meet patients who were advised that they should not worry about varicose veins unless they hurt. And I continue to be stunned when I see men with advanced venous hypertension and huge, bulging varicose veins, who think it’s just a cosmetic issue.”

Like us on Facebook, or check out our blog at blog.IllinoisVeinSpecialists.com/blog-1

Vein disease is real disease. And venous hyper-

© 2013 Illinois Vein Specialists. All rights reserved.

A Center of Excellence

in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Vein Disease™

health & fitness

STRONG I By MAREK MAKOWSKI

A

I

mid the din of blaring heavy metal and nearly 20 people scurrying across the gym of CrossFit Huntley is Jyllianne Czanstkowski, an Olympic weightlifting and CrossFit coach, swinging her feet to a pull-up bar tucked away in a back corner.

Midway through her Saturday morning reps, she doesn’t stop coaching.

Czanstkowski sways from the bar as she galvanizes a member trembling during his first rope climb at the gym.

“Come on,” cheers Czanstkowski,. “You’ve got two more pulls.”

He puffs and yanks himself upward, touching the top of the rope.

Sliding to the ground, he paces to catch his breath. Czanstkowski walks up, encouraging him.

8 | JANUARY 2014 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

They rotate positions and continue their workout for the day, striding through the cacophony in the room, beneath the military flags on the walls, beside the sweat-drenched faithful who span three generations. Czanstkowski, who lives in Lake in the Hills, has been with the program for three years. She’s one of three coaches, CrossFit head trainer Bobby Mickey says, in a gym that has a 60-year-old working out beside a college soccer player. mchenrycountymagazine.com

3 Jyllianne Czanstkowski is an Olympic weightlifting coach and trainer at CrossFit Huntley and coach at Sky High Volleyball in Crystal Lake. Photos by Ron McKinney

& beautiful After many people pack up, Czanstkowski stays an extra 10 minutes, pushing through her final rope climb. A handful of onlookers gathe r at the head of the gym in awe of her effort.

“She is a beast,” one girl says, dazzled.

For Czanstowski, the drive started early. Her dad, a professional baseball player, was “the militant side,” she explains. Her mom, “the good soul.”

Dad built the athlete in her, teaching her to be ambidextrous while keeping in good shape. She took up horseback riding, and her competitive spirit galloped. She picked up volleyball as a hobby, learned the intricacies of sport and her talent to break things down. All the while, mom mchenrycountymagazine.com

balanced that competitive spirit stressing the Golden Rule.

From her parents’ lessons, Czanstkowski developed an old school, iron-tough work ethic: She’s not entitled to anything. She’ll have to work hard for everything she wants. She will fight for first place.

They were lessons for sport and for life. She trained first as a horseback rider, taking care of it and training with it. At 16, when her sister-inlaw passed away, she had to take her spot in the family business. Struggling with accounting, she grasped that people can’t do everything perfectly the first time, that they improve with hard work.

MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2014 | 9

After a stint as a prison psychologist, Czanstkowski returned home to sand volleyball at Elgin Community College. She asked SkyHigh Volleyball founder Scott Harris if she could coach, saying she would take a young team at the Crystal Lake program.

Czanstkowski started coaching 13-year-olds and moved up to 15s, the age group that fit her best.

“That’s the year they go from being told what to do to seeing them click and actually understand the game,” she says. “I love the second you say that thing that clicks in their mind, and they get it.”

Coaching allows a motherly side of Czanstkowski to break free, and the girl who was bred to finish first has learned to help others win.

“I always tell my girls, ‘I don’t want you to be as good as me, I want you to be better than me,’” she says. “That’s what drives it.”

Last October, she and Mickey competed as a team. She breached physical and mental extremes, breaking through her body’s urges to rest.

“Until you’ve done (CrossFit), you don’t know how far you can push your

body,” she says.

Czanstkowski’s friends call her a fit fanatic. She doesn’t drink or smoke.

She eats healthy foods and constantly pushes herself physically. She has coached at Sky High for 14 years and now helps pair athletes with universities. Six days a week she trains and coaches at CrossFit Huntley.

“Every day you go in and it’s something different,” she says. “I’ve never been healthier, or stronger.”

Her athletic drive fuels her adventurous spirit. She has dogsledded and sky dived, pushing herself to do things she never before thought she could.

Then she teaches that to her players.

“I want them to have the ability to take chances,” Czanstkowski says.

“They figure out they’re good at it and they love it.”

Before Czanstkowski finishes her Saturday training, her new student battles through his last repetition of the morning. Seven other CrossFit members gather in a semicircle, joining Czanstkowski to root him on.

“We support each other,” Czanstkowski says, “and I think that was a big part of what I was missing.

This is my home.”

10 | JANUARY 2014 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

health & fitness

Running For Water I By WENDY FOSTER

Woodstock woman hits the pavement for charity The answer to her prayers was a bit of a surprise.

Since returning from a church trip to Africa in 2008, Anne Weirich of Woodstock had been praying for a way in which she could have a positive impact on its impoverished people.

Several months later, a gentleman addressing the congregation at Willow Creek Community Church in Crystal Lake invited them to join him in the Chicago Marathon to raise money for Team World Vision.

“I remember exactly where I was sitting in church that day. I felt that God was answering my prayer but my first response was shaking my head and thinking, ‘Really, God? A marathon?’”

Weirich, who until that time had not been particularly athletic and not terribly concerned with fitness, subsequently trained for the Chicago Marathon, which she completed five months later. She has repeated this feat every year since.

I

came back and wanted to do something to make a difference over there,” said Weirich. “I was there for 10 days and I was wrecked in a way by the experience, by the abject poverty. It’s nothing like the poverty that we see or experience here. There are no safety nets there. And something as basic as clean water, which we take for granted, is not readily available.”

Team World Vision is the largest charity at the Bank of America Chicago Marathon. Participants train and run the marathon with each other, while raising money for World Vision, an international Christian humanitarian organization. Weirich has raised $3,000-$4,000 each season that she’s run. This year, McHenry-Algonquin Runners, the team of which she is the captain, raised approximately $77,000 in total.

Beginning in the spring, Weirich’s team trains together on Saturday mornings, starting in

Weirich recalled her trip to Africa.

“I returned quite changed and impacted. I mchenrycountymagazine.com

“By the time we get to the end of the summer, we will have made it all of the way to Elgin,” she said.

Participating with Team World Vision has changed Weirich’s life on many levels, sh says.

“After you go through all of the effort of getting in shape and training, you start thinking differently.

You want to be healthier and make better food choices and care about exercising more,” she said. Weirich has started working towards her associate’s degree in fitness and wellness through McHenry County College.

“As captain of my team, I want to be able to advise and lead people well,” she said. Additionally Weirich said, she’s gotten to know people in a more meaningful way. “The irony of running is that it slows you down. When running on the Fox Valley Trail, we talk and listen to each other and learn about each other’s lives. That’s what bonds us as a team.”

“Running a marathon is quite an experience but running it for others….there is nothing like it,” Weirich said. “When I get to the last few miles of the marathon I always think to myself, I have no desire to do this for myself but running for the children who have to walk miles and miles each day hauling dirty contaminated water…it’s worth it.”

“Running for clean water in Africa has become a passion for me,” she said.

Professionally, Weirich is a registered nurse who works part-time for Univita, while also caring for her aging parents.

Algonquin and running along the Fox River Trail.

5 Anne Weirich, center, with members of the McHenryAlgonquin Runners, is pictured after completing the Chicago Marathon.

For additional information or to make a donation, visit http://teamworldvision. donordrive.com/team/cleanwater.

MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2014 | 11

health & fitness

BACK

to BASICS at the BARRE I By ALLISON HORNE

W

I

ith more people than ever embracing fitness, new videos, workouts, and other various up-and-coming methods have emerged to get women in tip-top shape.

Despite all the new workouts coming out, there is one technique that is taking it back to the basics — barre.

When most people think of barre, they think of teeny tiny ballerinas reaching for the sky in toe shoes and tights. And while today’s barre fitness classes have roots in dance and they use the barre for the workout, they also make use of Pilates techniques for core conditioning.

What Barre Is The German-born dancer Lotte Berk is credited with creating the basic bar method, or Lotte Berk Method, in the 1950s. Since then, it has morphed into various different techniques, including licensed methods like Pure Barre, Booty Barre, The Dailey Method and Xtend Barre.

Barre often is considered to be a sibling of pilates, with a focus on body control and small, isometric movements.

Yet all of the various barre methods, as indicated by the name, utilize the ballet barre in one way or another.

4 Julie Williams, owner of Body and Mind Pilates Plus, offers barre-themed classes at her studio, an emerging trend that blends the benefits of ballet training with traditional Pilates methods. Shaw Media file photo

12 | JANUARY 2014 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

“Even though this is a dance-based program, you do not need to be a ballet dancer in order to do it,” says Megan Miller, owner of The Underground, which features Booty Barre classes. “It’s Pilates-based and low impact, and is toning and sculpting rather than lifting weights.”

Julie Williams, owner of Body and Mind Pilates Plus, offers Xtend Barre classes, which has heavy foundations in Pilates. Basic barre classes consist of a series of work at the barre, sculpting on the mat, high repetition body weight movements and plenty of abdomen repetitions. mchenrycountymagazine.com

3 While a fitness regimen including time at the ballet barre has been around since the 1950s, it has more recently morphed into a variety of fitness techniques, licensed nationwide as Pure Barre, Booty Barre, The Dailey Method and Xtend Barre. Photo provided by Pure Barre

“It’s a really great workout for anybody — it’s not really directed toward dancers,” Miller says. “It’s great for beginners all the way through older adults.”

The exercises are also so low-impact that barre classes are safe to participate in daily, and many women see such great results that they opt to do so.

“When you go to any kind of group fitness workout, regardless if it’s Pilates or yoga or barre, by being in a group it helps you to be more accountable and it also puts you in a better atmosphere that is encouraging and exciting,” Miller says.

Why It’s Popular One of the reasons barre has risen in popularity with women in particular is that it addresses the areas of the boy with which women typically take issue.

“There’s a reason our introductory classes are only 30 minutes long,” Miller says. “You wouldn’t be able to take the burn longer than 30 minutes, and your legs are Jell-O when you’re done.”

A similar element that draws from the Pilates foundation is the core work during classes, which focuses on improving back, hips and shoulder alignment. Barre workouts also often utilize small rubber balls to focus on tightening the body and eliminating cellulite.

“You get the long, lean muscles versus bulk, you get a stretching and strengthening component, balance and coordination, you get to have fun while working out, and best of all — everyone feels like a ballerina,” Williams says.

Essentially, women regularly participating in barre classes are obtaining a dancer’s body without ever sliding into ballet slippers.

“I think there’s something inside of everyone that loves to dance, and you forget it’s a workout because you’re having so much fun,” Williams says. “The good music combined with the dancing, you forget that you’re working out and the hour flies by.” mchenrycountymagazine.com

(With barre) You get the long, lean muscles versus bulk.

— Julie Williams, owner of Body and Mind Pilates Plus

10 healthy resolutions you can keep!

It’s that fickle time of year again.

Yet another January arrives and we realize that we dropped the ball on last year’s resolutions to de-stress, lose a few pounds or live a healthier lifestyle.

Area experts offered to help with a few suggestions to make and keep those New Year’s resolutions for 2014.

Get support

Make health a priority

Surround yourself with people who will support your goals and encourage you to eat healthier and get your exercise in.

Costoff cautions not to put health at the bottom of your priority list. “If you’re sick then you can’t go to work, if you’re sick you can’t take care of your kids,” says Costoff. “Make your health a priority. Be proactive in your health rather than reactive.”

Ease into exercise “Some people jump right in and over-exercise and they run themselves down. They end up getting sick, weakening their immune system,” Costoff says. “They do too much too fast then it is harder to get back into it again. Ease into (an exercise routine) and you are more likely to stick with it.

Then increase your exercise as you go.”

“The most common resolutions for women usually have to do with their health,” says Linda Costoff, certified personal trainer and group fitness instructor who owns Intrigue Fitness, 9115 Trinity Drive in Lake in the Hills. “I believe the most popular one is to lose weight or get in shape and right after that is eating right; which ... is indicative of our unhealthy American lifestyle. We put our jobs, kids, etc. on the top of our list and our health at the 4 The first step to bottom, when in reality, if we declaring and maintaining don’t have our health we can’t New Year’s resolutions to live a healthier lifestyle in have the rest.”

Costoff says there are a host of important steps needed in order to help stick with a New Year’s resolution:

Lindsay Boeke, fitness director at Centegra Health Bridge, with locations in Huntley and Crystal Lake, agrees that the first step to declaring and maintaining New Year’s resolutions to live a healthier lifestyle in 2014 is to set small, short, attainable goals. “Come January 1, people often make the mistake of declaring ‘I’m going to run a marathon or lose 50 pounds’, and that’s not fun for anybody,” Boeke says.

Reward yourself We should also get in the habit of rewarding ourselves along the way, but not with food.

For example, if you get in your 30 minutes of daily exercise “reward yourself by buying a new pair of exercise shoes or an exercise shirt, not a brownie,” says Boeke.

2014 is to set small, short, attainable goals, according to Lindsay Boeke, fitness director at Centegra Health Bridge.

14 | JANUARY 2014 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

Set goals you can reach

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Buddy up Get a buddy or a personal trainer, someone in your life to hold you accountable to your goals. This will help you stay on track and make getting healthy more fun.

Choose something fun Find a healthy activity that is fun for you and you will do it more often. “If you are forcing yourself to walk or run in 10 degree weather ... you are not going to stick with it,” she says. Boeke recommends a calorie burning activity such as basketball or Zumba to liven up an exercise routine.

NATURE’S CORNUCOPIA HEALTH FOODS

Go one step at a time “If trying to eat healthier, do not start by emptying out the kitchen pantry of all the junk food and spending lots of money to load it back up with healthy foods.

Rather, introduce to your diet a new, healthy option each day or week, like replacing a candy bar with an apple or a soda with a bottle of water.

Never say “never” “If I say I’m going to eat clean all the time ... only eat clean chicken breasts and I am never going to eat a bag of chips it’s probably not going happen,” says Boeke. “But if I you say ‘OK I can have a handful of something unhealthy once in a while,’ you are more than likely going to be successful in your new, healthier lifestyle.”

Think positive

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“Ninety-nine percent of it is mental,” says Boeke. “If you think you can do it, you definitely can.” mchenrycountymagazine.com

MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2014 | 15

health & fitness

Family Fitness | By Elizabeth Harmon |

It’s never too early to initiate a healthy lifestyle Just as adults commit to fitness in January, it’s a great time for kids to do the same. Childhood obesity has more than doubled in children and tripled in adolescents in the past 30 years, and according to the Centers for Disease Control, more than one third of children and adolescents were overweight or obese in 2010.

“We have to focus on helping kids stay active and understand that this is about their future health. When they can establish good habits early on, it naturally progresses into adulthood,” says Celine Pope, Wellness Manager for Centegra Health Systems.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends 60 minutes of physical activity each day for kids. Staying active when it’s cold outside can be a challenge, but it’s also the perfect time to try something new — and get the family involved.

Centegra Health Systems’ Kids in Motion classes at the Healthbridge Fitness Centers in Crystal Lake and Huntley takes a holistic approach by encouraging kids, ages 8 to 13, to be active, eat right and feel good about 16 | JANUARY 2014 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

themselves. “It looks at the whole child, not just the physical aspects,” says Pope.

increase flexibility. “We play games, I try to make it fun,” says instructor Donna Layne.

The eight-week program focuses on fitness, nutrition and social behaviors. The fitness component includes sessions with an exercise specialist. Nutrition education focuses on healthy diets and portion control, and also includes parents. Behavior specialists help kids to develop confidence and social skills.

As with adult yoga classes, the majority of Layne’s students are female, including a number of gymnasts, though she’s also taught football players who find that yoga helps their flexibility and concentration.

The program begins and ends with fitness tests so that kids can track their improvement.

Sessions include a free hour at Healthbridge before class, and family members are invited to join in. There’s also a maintenance class, Families in Motion, held between sessions.

The program is unique because it involves parents and kids, Pope says. “We look at changes for the whole family to make together.”

The next class begins Jan. 14. For more information, visit www.centegra.org or call 815-877- CENTEGRA Another great choice for folks of all ages is yoga. The Sage YMCA Crystal Lake’s yoga class for kids 5 through 10 years old, teaches breathing techniques, relaxation and meditation while helping build strength and

Kids not involved in other sports can benefit too, including those with learning and behavioral issues, such as ADD, Layne says. “Learning techniques to improve concentration and focus helps them relax in school. It helps build confidence, and overcome fear and anger.”

To register, visit www. ymcachicago.org/sage/ or call 815-459-4455.

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– Most Medical Insurances Accepted – watch the upcoming Winter Olympics, why not get them out on the ice?

The Crystal Ice House in Crystal Lake offers private and group hockey and figure skating lessons for children ages four and older. “We also have parent and tot lessons for the younger kids,” says skating director Kim Johnson.

As skaters develop, the Ice House offers hockey leagues, “Rat Ice” pick-up hockey, competitive figure skating programs including Special Olympics, Theater on Ice, synchronized skating, ice shows, curling and broom ball.

Adults can learn too. “Skating is something you can do throughout your life, it teaches coordination and balance. It’s active, aerobic exercise and with the proper equipment, anyone can do it,” Johnson says.

For more information, visit www. crystalicehouse.com MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2014 | 17

What is the Captain James A. Lovell Federal Health Care Center?

We are the first, state-of-the-art medical facility serving the needs of both Veterans and active duty patients. To find out more about your eligibility for programs and services, please visit: www.lovell.fhcc.va.gov/patients/eligibility.asp

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health & fitness

W

hile breakthroughs in modern medicine are extremely valuable, to some extent the medical community has a habit of introducing chemicals into the body in the form of drugs or resorting to surgery.

The focus is rarely on prevention and treating the underlying causes of symptoms. No part of your body escapes the impact of your nervous system. Improper function of the spine due to slight misalignments—called subluxations— can cause poor health or function, even in areas far removed from the spine and spinal cord itself. A doctor of Chiropractics’ role is to remove subluxations so that the body can perform optimally. Misalignments can also reduce the ability of your body to adapt to its ever-changing environment and the body of the pregnant women undergoes more changes than anyone, even she, can imagine.

For years we have supported many women during their pregnancy, enabling them to have a more comfortable and positive experience.

Childbirth is a natural process and with specific preparations, most women can avoid pain medication and interventions during labor and birth. The childbirth education program we teach expectant mothers at my clinic is called, the Bradley Method. It’s named after American obstetrician Robert Bradley, who developed the method in the late 1940s. It takes approximately 12 weeks, starting in the fifth month of pregnancy and teaches the father to be the labor coach. Nearly 90 percent of Bradley-trained mothers have experienced spontaneous, un-medicated, vaginal births.

The course covers many aspects of natural childbirth, including: • Nutrition • Exercise (when appropriate) during pregnancy • Coping measures for common pregnancy symptoms and complaints • Relaxation tips during labor and birth • How to communicate effectively with your medical team using a birth plan Our clinic’s very own Dr. Peter Norton, D.C., is specially trained and certified to apply chiropractic treatments on expecting mothers to minimize the most common complaints, edema, neck, back, leg and hip pain. He also is trained to treat infants.

The Way To A NATURAL Pregnancy “Thomas Edison said ‘The doctor of the future will give no medicine but will interest his patients in the care of the human frame, in diet and in the cause and prevention of disease.’”

For more information call the Strelcheck Chiropractic Clinic, and speak with Megan Norton, licensed massage therapist, chiropractic assistant and AAHCC-certfifed Bradley Method instructor.

Vital Signs 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. mchenrycountymagazine.com

MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2014 | 19

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We will make your dreams come true! Call us today at 847-508-2313 or visit our website for more information. www.dreamsdocometruetours.com mchenrycountymagazine.com

family in focus

Building A Family Answering the basic questions of fertility health | By Elizabeth Harmon |

surgical correction of reproductive problems, egg donation and of course, in-vitro fertilization. We do all of them and more at Advanced Fertility Center.

For couples struggling to start or expand their family, seeking fertility treatment can be a lifechanging decision. When is the right time to seek a specialist, and what treatment is best?

Michelle Catenacci, of Advanced Fertility Center of Chicago, practices in the Crystal Lake office. A reproductive endocrinologist and infertility specialist, she is board certified in obstetrics and gynecology, and completed Infertility Fellowship Training in 2012 at the Cleveland Clinic Foundation.

“Being able to help my patients achieve a healthy pregnancy is the best part of my job and what drew me to the field of reproductive endocrinology and infertility,” she said.

Catenacci offers her expert answers to six frequently asked questions.

Q: If a woman or couple suspect they’re infertile, when should they seek help?

A: Usually, if a woman is under 35 and has been trying for a year to become pregnant, she should see a physician. If she’s over 35, she should see a physician after trying for six months. But if there’s an issue she’s already aware of that might prevent her from becoming pregnant, she should see someone right away.

Michelle Catenacci Advanced Fertility Center of Chicago

Q: How do I know what treatment is best?

A: That’s determined after a consultation and evaluation to figure out what the issues are that are causing the infertility. Treatment will depend upon the couple and their situation.

Q: Do centers offer rates of success and how do I interpret them?

A: The Center for Disease Control publishes success rates for all reputable clinics on their website, at www.cdc.gov/art/ARTReports.

htm. Success rates are also available on the Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology website, www.sart.org. Success rates are sorted by mother’s age, pregnancy rate verses implantation rates and other factors so you can compare clinic to clinic. For example, if two embryos are transferred into the uterus, and one implants, that’s a 50 percent implantation rate.

Q: Are fertility treatments covered by insurance?

A: Sometimes yes, but often not. All major insurers offer plans that cover fertility treatments, including IVF, but many employers choose plans that do not cover treatment.

It’s always best to check with your individual insurance company.

Like to learn more? Visit www. advancedfertility.com to find more frequently asked questions, articles about infertility, the latest treatments, and more.

Q: What should I look for in a fertility center and specialist?

A: Look for their reputation in the community, and also their clinical success rate. Success rates vary greatly, depending on the mother’s age and the egg source — the mother’s eggs versus donor eggs. A clinic’s success rate can be compared to national averages to see how good they are. For the doctor, having specialized training in reproductive endocrinology and infertility is important.

Q: Do all centers offer the same treatments?

A: Not all offer the same treatments, so it’s important to look at their website, if you’re interested in something specific. The most common treatments include ovulation induction, inter-uterine insemination, mchenrycountymagazine.com

MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2014 | 21

family in focus

What I

gained, helping others

lose I have always been what you might call an exercise addict. I even went so far as to make exercise my job, and in the process learned more about my own insecurities by helping others deal with theirs.

Growing up with two older brothers meant a great deal of teasing and tormenting. While I never was a chubby kid, as I got older I quickly realized that I couldn’t eat foot-long subs and entire boxes of mac ‘n cheese like my brothers.

If I did, my siblings were right there to point out exactly where my healthy appetite “ended up.” Neither was I blessed with the same genes as my grandmother, who could eat pastries for breakfast, lunch and dinner and never break 100 pounds.

I always have had to work hard to eat right and stay in shape. Sometimes I worked harder than others. Sometimes I thought I was eating right, but ended up doing more harm than good. I struggled with fad diets and extreme exercise routines. I pushed myself to workout through injuries and illness. I would stress out if I missed a day at the gym or beat myself up if I overindulged. I was a slave to how many calories I burned, the number on the scale and the size of my jeans.

Eventually, I found the right combination and balance of reasonable, but effective workouts, eating right without depriving myself and a love for my body, despite its flaws. I made this my life, not a temporary fix.

22 | JANUARY 2014 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

Don’t get me wrong, I still am at the gym or doing some sort of exercise more than the average person, but I feel healthier emotionally, not just physically, about my exercise and diet regimen.

even a pound of weight gain over a weekend.

In the last year-and-a-half, my husband made the conscious decision to change his lifestyle, and in the end lost almost 70 pounds. Most people assume I was the one who pushed him to adopt a new way of eating and exercise routine. In reality, he was the one who finally said, “Enough is enough,” and decided to change his ways. He struggled a great deal for the first several months, even though he was seeing significant results.

It was then that I realized that what I wished for him was to gain what I had over the years — the ability to cut myself some slack. I rarely weigh myself. I gave up obsessing over what my heart rate monitor said at the end of a workout. Instead of working to burn what I ate, I learned to eat to fuel my workouts. I gave my body rest when it was needed and realized that as long as I woke up every morning, alive and healthy, that was most important.

He agonized over his workouts, portions, milligrams of sodium, whether something had cheese sprinkled on it and even told me once that bread was evil. Moderation is not his strong suit. He is an “all or nothing” kind of guy, so cheating was not an option for him.

As a group fitness instructor and athlete, I see a lot of intense and competitive people. I have that spirit too, and I can relate. In fact, there are times I feel like I am looking in the mirror.

That mirror has given me the ability to look long and hard at what I see and what I really want to achieve.

He pushed himself to the point of injury in his workouts and would get downright angry and depressed if he had to take a break. He weighed himself twice a week and fretted over

I love to exercise. I love looking and feeling good. I love being healthy. It makes me happy.

Beating myself up, getting depressed or stressed

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I know the road to physical fitness is long and finding balance is difficult. I know maintenance is the hardest part and it takes a lot of discipline and perseverance to stay on track. My only wish is that we can all achieve balance in that journey so at the end of the day, we can all like who we are and what we see in the mirror.

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Write This Down with Michelle Stien

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mchenrycountymagazine.com

Places to go, things to do, all with convenience in mind

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Call Jenneen 815-344-2690 4609 W. Crystal Lake Rd. McHenry, IL 60050

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MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2014 | 23

health & fitness

3 Lucky receives an emergency eye exam from Dr. Lovell.

Making the CASE

For Your Pet

| By SHERRI DAUSKURDAS |

Compassionate, advanced care drive efforts at emergency animal hospital

Many pet owners have been in the situation where their beloved dog or cat needed emergency care, but their veterinary office was closed or could not provide comprehensive emergency services. If you are found in this situation, Companion Animal Specialty & Emergency Hospital is available for peace of mind, throughout the day and night.

Specializing in internal and integrative medicine, as well as soft tissue and orthopedic surgical procedures, Companion Animal Specialty & Emergency Hospital is not a veterinary clinic for pet wellness and general care.

5 Following surgery, Kiley is assisted in rehab therapy exercise to regain balance. Photos by Jason Pfrommer

Staffed around the clock with compassionate, experienced doctors and certified technicians, the hospital has board certified surgeons available through a partnership with Veterinary Specialty Center of Buffalo Grove.

Other services include an in-house laboratory and pharmacy, digital X-ray, ICU, underwater treadmill, ultrasound, endoscopy and state of the art surgical suite.

“The specialty services are typically provided based on referral from the primary veterinarian,” says CASE managing veterinarian Mike Hochman. “We do not provide routine wellness or preventative care. Our services complement the primary veterinarians care.”

Located in Crystal Lake at the corner of Pingree and Rakow roads, CASE Hospital is the only hospital of its kind in the county for 24-hour emergency and critical care to dogs and cats.

mchenrycountymagazine.com

What separates Companion Animal Specialty & Emergency Hospital from a regular veterinary clinic is that the hospital specializes in emergency and advanced medicine and surgery. Many veterinary clinics are only open during regular business hours to provide the regular care, vaccinations and check-ups that your pet needs in order to stay healthy. CASE Hospital remains open after your regular veterinary office closes with the advantage of being open during regular business hours for your pets needs.

“When a pet requires 24-hour critical care, or has a more complex medical or surgical problem, the primary veterinarian will refer their clients to us,” Hochman explains. “We are also always available for emergency care with trained staff present 24/7.”

Despite the differences between the hospital and the regular clinics, both work in concert to provide complete care should a pet become in need of emergency and advanced medicine and/or surgery.

“We are experienced and trained in specific areas of veterinary care,” Hochman says.

“The specialists consist of veterinarians that have completed additional training through accredited programs in their field.

The emergency vets have made emergency medicine their primary focus of care.

Most of the ER vets have more than 10 years experience specifically in emergency medicine.

“

mchenrycountymagazine.com

6 Jennifer cares for Cassie, a patient in the Intensive Care Unit.

We care for your pets as we would for our own.

CASE Story A great example of a rehab case was an older golden retriever mix with rear leg pain and weakness, that worsened until he could not walk. Diagnosis was hip dysplasia and intervertebral

5 To relieve pain, Piper receives an acupuncture treatment from Dr. Karen Turner.

— Dr. Mike Hochman 6 Rachel, a certified veterinary technician, assists Turner in laser therapy on Nugget, to alleviate back pain.

disc disease. With a combination of acupuncture, laser therapy, underwater treadmill and therapeutic exercise, he has made a complete recovery and can walk, run, and play with little to no pain.

MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2014 | 25

“

4 Turner assists Piper through underwater treadmill therapy.

It is important for clients to understand that they will be informed and then actively involved with decisions regarding their pet’s care.

“We have many certified veterinary technicians that have gone to school to become competent in their profession,” he adds. “The doctors, technicians and support staff regularly attend continuing education programs in order to provide the most up-todate and advanced care.

Dr. Karen Turner has more than 10 years veterinary experience and recently was certified in rehabilitation and acupuncture.

She leads the Integrative Medicine department. “We blend modalities to improve the quality of life in post-operative care, chronic pain and chronic conditions.

Therapy can range from quick, outpatient care for a stable pet to long in-hospital stays for critical cases, Hochman says. Surgery is an option for many problems. Chronic arthritis can be helped with laser therapy, underwater treadmill and acupuncture.

Another, a 9-year-old yellow labrador retriever, came in with a shoulder injury after competing in agility and dock diving. “He was treated by an orthopedic veterinarian in Baltimore and then was referred to us for rehab,” Turner says.

“With a combination of laser therapy, therapeutic ultrasound, underwater treadmill and controlled exercise he is back to competing in agility and dock diving.”

Companion Animal Specialty & Emergency Hospital has plans to expand facilities in its current location allowing more room for integrative and internal medicine departments to

26 | JANUARY 2014 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

grow, and allowing more to be added.

Grief counseling and support at the loss of a pet are offered, and crematory services are available, although not on the premises.

“We love and care for your animals just as much as you do. We are here for you if you experience the loss of a pet.”

It’s all so that when your vet recommends Companion Animal Specialty & Emergency Hospital for your pet, you know the best of care will be provided.

CASE Hospital 1095 Pingree Road, Crystal Lake 815-479-9119 24/7 Emergency Care

“It is important for clients to understand that they will be informed and then actively involved with decisions regarding their pet’s care.”

mchenrycountymagazine.com

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Pick up your free Bridal Planner at the Northwest Herald office, 7717 S. Route 31 in Crystal Lake.

For more information, call 815-459-4040

28 | JANUARY 2014 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

mchenrycountymagazine.com

home & lifestyle

Green Box Boutique.

Photo by Robin Pendergrast

Reclaimed. Photo by Robin Pendergrast

Reclaimed. Photo by Kayla Didier

Green Endeavors Local businesses strive to sell eco-friendly products

By STEPHANIE KOHL

T

hese days, the choices for sustainable living have expanded to encompass everything from fruits and vegetables to housecleaning and hardwood floors. And most of the green choices are equally beneficial

to planet and body, reducing the effects of common allergens while minimizing our carbon footprint. McHenry abounds with entrepreneurs ready to serve the environmental concerns of families and households across our communities.

Green Box Boutique Green Box Boutique strives to offer unique, local, fair trade with merchandise as ecofriendly as they can get it.

Located on the Woodstock Square at 108 N. Benton St., Green Box Boutique offers things like fashion, accessories, wine, beer, tea, bath and body items, home décor and unique artwork.

Every product is made from sustainable, earth-friendly materials at affordable prices so shoppers can give great gifts without taking from the environment.

Green Box Boutique.

Photo by Robin Pendergrast

30 | JANUARY 2014 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

The philosophy of the boutique encompasses fair trade, organic, local and affordable. These are

important factors to Green Box that come together when they choose vendors, products and concepts.

“Organic is (important) because we need to start cleaning up the mess we made for our children,” says Connie Citarelli, owner of Green Box Boutique. “Fair trade (is important) because everyone deserves to be able to make a living and feed their family.”

Citarelli added that local is important because she thinks the economy will not rebound until people start shopping locally.

Within the shop, clothing, jewelry, personal care and wine items are the most popular sellers with customers coming from Woodstock and

Reclaimed.

Photo by Kayla Didier

all along the train route to and from Chicago. Citarelli tries to carry as many Made in America products as she can.

“I see a trend more toward fair trade, organic and made in America,” she says, adding people are seeking more natural, better-made products.

Green Box Boutique also offers art events, coffee tastings, wine tastings, ladies night out events and more.

Visit www.greenboxboutique.com for hours and details.

Reclaimed Many of us have a piece of old furniture that’s been in the family for years sitting in the attic, garage or basement. While offering craftsmanship, these pieces oftentimes, aren’t in the best of condition.

That is where Reclaimed, 135 Beardsley St, in Crystal Lake shines. Since August 2010, Brent Hollenberg, owner of Reclaimed, has been taking in furniture, restoring and restyling it. In September 2012, he opened a storefront in Crystal Lake.

In addition to restoring and restyling old pieces, Reclaimed also uses locallysourced materials, such as wood from a local barn that was torn down, to create

new pieces. Recently, the business has turned its focus to custom orders.

Reclaimed’s production facility is located just across the street from its Crystal Lake storefront. Customers can bring in items they want restored, or shop Reclaimed’s current offerings on their website, www. reclaimedcl.com.

“Organic is (important) because we need to start cleaning up the mess we made for our children.”

— Connie Citarelli, owner of Green Box Boutique

Reclaimed works with local Salvation Army, Goodwill and similar shops to purchase fixer-upper furniture they would not be able to sell in their store.

Reclaimed also gets pieces from estate sales, auctions and even donations from customers.

Hollenberg got his start when a friend bought a dresser for her baby’s room. He priced it out and realized he could have made or refurbished an item for less and make some money.

“Instead of people buying all this (stuff ) from other countries ... they can use something they already have,” Hollenberg says.

Green Box Boutique.

Photo by Robin Pendergrast

Reclaimed.

Photo by Kayla Didier MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2014 | 31

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of WOMEN distinction

Women of Distinction identifies women who have made a difference in McHenry County and who are representative role models as leaders in their fields and community. Honorees will be profiled in the McHenry County Magazine’s May issue and recognized at an awards luncheon on May 15, 2014.

Please fill out this form completely (use additional paper for nominee description) and return by Feb. 21, 2014.

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BUSINESS PHONE

Achievements: Please list additional background information (career milestones; individual achievements, volunteerism, philanthropic work). On a separate piece of paper, explain why you think this person is a Woman of Distinction. Submit your nomination online at NWHerald.com/events __________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________

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DEADLINE FOR NOMINATION: Februrary 21, 2014 FAX: 815-477-4960 Mail: P.O. Box 250, Crystal Lake, Illinois 60039 Attn: Meredith Schaefer Email: mschaefer@shawmedia.com

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MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2014 | 35

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!

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Additions 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 and see how we can make your house the home of your dream

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

Interior Design 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”

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

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.

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

mchenrycountymagazine.com

MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2014 | 37

fashion & beauty

KNIT-WITTY Stay cozy all season in smart, stylish sweaters and accessories.

The season sparkles for girls with sweater separates from Gymboree. The Fair Isle Sweater Duster with big gem buttons is priced at $46.95.

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Mom looks fabulous in this Shupaca Fur Knit Poncho, available online at Amazon. com in styles and colors from $99 to $250.

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embroidme-crystallake.com

6215 US Rt. 14 Crystal Lake 815.444.1081

MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2014 | 39

You’ll love my sauce so much

I’m gi ving away free Ribs!

Coming soon to a Supermarket near you!

BEST RIBS!

BEST BBQ!

5111 Terra Cotta Ave. Crystal Lake

815-477-3600 Follow us on Twitter, Facebook and at www.crystallakeribhouse.com

FREE RIBS! Receive a full slab FREE with purchase of one full slab dinner. Please no sharing on an offer this good. Dine in only, minimum two guests.

Cannot be combined with any other offer, discount or AYCE special.

Not valid on holidays. One per table, group or family per day. Must present coupon. Expires January 31, 2014.

dining & entertaining

3An Apple Pancake at Richard Walker’s Pancake House in Crystal Lake.

Photos by Robin Pendergrast

Rise And Shine!

Artisan ingredients, creative combinations make morning meals marvelous

By YVONNE BENSON

Kick-starting the day has become increasingly experiential. While most mornings remain a monotonous plodding of essential tasks to prepare for the day, that tedium can be broken by a surprising and satisfying breakfast. And as chefs and foodies alike embrace the most important meal of the day with the same enthusiasm once reserved for dinner, our taste buds are reaping the benefits.

There’s been surge of morning dining alternatives, whose choices run the gamut from savory creations of artisan sausages, farm fresh eggs and creatively paired cheeses to sweet treats that rival some of the most elaborate desserts.

5A chef at Richard Walker’s Pancake House in Crystal Lake prepares breakfast.

Success has come in such pairings as Goat Cheese, Artichoke and Smoked Ham, and the sweet Auntie Elaine’s Blueberry Strata, which blends fresh blueberries and cream cheese into egg and bread custard, baked and topped with blueberry compote. For true decadence, order up the Benedict ala Rothschild — two 3 oz. filet mignons with sautéed mushrooms topped with two poached eggs and finished with béarnaise sauce. Served with an English muffin.

The Red Velvet French toast ... it’s like an excuse to have dessert for breakfast.”

“You win customers every time they come in,” Smith says. “You make them happy. You know your business and you get to know them — their wives and kids. Every new customer you want to become a regular customer because they don’t want to leave — well, until we close.”

Larry Smith manages Benedict’s LaStrata in Crystal Lake. The strata, a signature creation for Benedict’s, is, in Kelly Muller, its simplest form, a breakfast manager at Brunch Café in McHenry casserole. But that’s almost too simple a description.

It’s that blend of essential Owner John Pilafas cooks comfort food and atmosphere with an occasional twist on them, inventing and experimenting with the traditional that makes dining out for combinations he then tries out on his staff.

mchenrycountymagazine.com

6German Pancake at Richard Walker’s.

essential menu item.

breakfast such an appealing experience.

“Definitely the red velvet French Toast,” she says. “It’s almost like cake. It has a swirl of cream cheese filling. It’s like an excuse to have dessert for breakfast.”

Ray Ovalle general manager at Richard Walker’s Pancake House in Crystal Lake admits that the essentials remain bacon and eggs, sausage and eggs, and omelets. However, he’s most enthusiastic about a few menu items that stand out from the crowd: “We’re known for our apple pancakes and our thick sliced bacon,” he says. “And our baked omelets are some of our signature items.”

For a savory twist on the famous raised pancake, try the Dutch Harvest, an oven baked treat stuffed with fresh broccoli, onion, tomato, mushrooms, and topped with Danish Harvarti cheese. Gluten and peanut free

pancakes also are offered.

At Brunch Café in McHenry, manager Kelly Muller has no doubts of the restaurant’s most

She described Brunch Café, “The atmosphere is super homey.

It’s nothing too modern. When you come in the doors it’s relaxing and at home. Our servers and hostesses — everybody is happy to be here. We definitely get a lot of comments back from the customers that everyone is friendly. It could be because we feed them. I definitely have a smile on my face. They’re happy to be here and we’re happy to be here. It’s a good mix.”

Ahhh

Fresh Ingredients Incredible Taste From omelettes and pancakes to salads and sandwiches, enjoy the finest food from our family favorite recipes.

Open Everyday 6:30 am - 2:30 pm

5680 Northwest Hwy. Crystal Lake, IL 815.479.9000 www.richardwalkers.com Apple Pancake

mchenrycountymagazine.com

MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2014 | 43

WELLNESS PLACE GOLDEN BIRTHDAY GALA

Wellness Place raised more than $120,000 and attracted more than 200 supporters at its recent Golden Birthday Gala. Wellness Place provides programs and services free of charge to indivicuals, families, friends and caregivers whose lives have been touched by cancer. A satellite office recently was opened in Crystal Lake. For information about Wellness Place, visit wllnessplace.org or call 847-241-5964.

BIG BROTHERS / BIG SISTERS Hundreds came out to support the Big Brothers and Big Sisters at its annual gala, the Magic of Mentoring. Live and silent auctions, dinner a magic show and award presentations filled the evening at the Boulder Ridge Country Club.Â

out & about

January 3 — Winter Warmth 10 a.m.-11:30 a.m. at the Prairieview Education Center, at 2112 Behan Road in Crystal Lake It’s cold outside, but the animals are still active! Mammals have amazing adaptations that allow them to survive through the cold McHenry County winters. Join us to learn how these creatures cope with the cold, as well as how we mimic their behavior to survive the cold weather ourselves.

Program will include an outdoor hike. Dress for the weather.

For ages 3-5. To register or for more information, call 815338-6223 or visit www.mccdistrict.org.

January 10 — Owls of McHenry County 7 p.m. at the Prairieview Education Center, at 2112 Behan Road in Crystal Lake Winter is the ideal time to observe owls and owl behavior.

The owls are busy staking claim to territories and seeking a mate to share it with. Learn more about these “tigers of the sky.” Meet live owls, share stories and folklore, and go for a short hike in search of owls. Dress for the weather. There is also a separate but simultaneous owl program for children ages 6-13. To register or for more information, call 815-3386223 or visit www.mccdistrict.org.

January 11 — Filing Your FAFSA Workshop 1 p.m.-4:30 p.m. at the Algonquin Area Public Library, at 2600 Harnish Drive in Algonquin Drop in during the workshop to fill out your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Bring any personal tax information with you. For college students and parents. For more information, call 847-458-6060 or visit www.aapld. org.

January 11 & 12 — ESO Scottish Fantasy Saturday at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 2:30 p.m. at the Hemmens Cultural Center, at 45 Symphony Way in Elgin Take a musical tour of Scotland — creating images of rolling green hills, ancient ruins and magnificent castles.

Each piece returns you to the beauty of Scotland and melodies of old. ESO’s own Music Director, Andrew Grams, and violinist, Michael Ludwig, will delight the audience with Scottish Fantasy. Tickets start at $25. For tickets or more information, call 847-888-4000 or visit www. elginsymphony.org.

January 12 — Health, Fitness & Nutrition Expo 11 a.m.3 p.m. at Park Place, at 406 W. Woodstock St. in Crystal Lake Come and visit vendor booths and exhibits showcasing local health, fitness and nutrition businesses and organizations.

Free admission. For more information, call 815-477-5871 or visit www.crystallakeparks.org.

January 12 — Winter Scavenger Hunt 1 p.m. at The Hollows Picnic Shelter 1, at 3804 Route 14 in Cary Take a break from this busy time of year and gather the family for some outdoor fun and fresh air! Start with an introduction around the campfire at the pavilion, then head out on the scavenger hunt, where we will look at winter plant life and search for signs of animal activity. For all ages.

To register or for more information, call 815-338-6223 or visit www.mccdistrict.org.

January 16 — Creative Living Series with Dr. James Phillips 10 a.m. at the Woodstock Opera House, at 121 W. Van Buren St. in Woodstock From ants to dinosaurs, from ethnographic to paleontological specimens, from 2 billion year old items

to more recent additions, Chicago’s Field Museum, with 22 million objects, hosts one of the largest collections in the world. Dr. James Phillips offers a personal tour of this cultural institution, revealing behind-the-scenes stories of some fascinating objects and explaining why it’s important that we continue to collect. Tickets are $24. For tickets or more information, call 815-338-4212 or visit www. woodstockoperahouse.com.

January 17 — Winter Constellations 7 p.m. at Glacial Park’s Lost Valley Visitor Center, at Route 31 & Harts Road in Ringwood Who is Orion and what is his story? Have you heard of the Seven Sisters? Just how are their stories intertwined?

Under a hushed winter sky learn to identify a few major constellations, and listen to the stories behind them. Dress for the weather and be prepared to be outside for part of the program. For all ages. Cost is free for residents and $5 for non-residents. To register or for more information, call 815-338-6223 or visit www.mccdistrict.org.

January 18 — Lee Greenwood 8 p.m. at the Woodstock Opera House, at 121 W. Van Buren St. in Woodstock Lee Greenwood is an American country music artist, best known for his single “God Bless the USA,” which celebrates its 30th anniversary this year. He has also won numerous accolades and music awards including a Grammy for Top Male Vocal Performance in 1985 for “I.O.U.” Tickets are $65.

For tickets or more information, call 815-338-5300 or visit www.woodstockoperahouse.com.

January 18 — The Inspiring Life and Times of a Beloved Blackhawk Legend: Keith Magnuson 3 p.m. at the Cary Area Library, at 1606 Three Oaks Road in Cary Professor and author Doug Feldmann will be discussing and sharing excerpts from his book about the remarkable life of Chicago Blackhawk legend Keith Magnuson. Books will be available for purchase. To register or for more information, visit www.caryarealibrary.org.

January 18 — Pond Hockey Tournament 8 a.m.-4 p.m. at Indian Trail Beach, at 228 Indian Trail in Lake in the Hills This year’s Pond Hockey Tournament brings the game back to it’s roots as teams play outdoors on Woods Creek Lake.

All games are two 15-minute (running clock) halves with a 1 minute halftime. Teams are guaranteed two games and are limited to seven players who are 18 and older. Returning teams are given first priority. All other registrations are taken on a first-come, first-served basis. In the event that the ice is not playable, the make-up date is Feb. 1. For more information, call 847-960-7460 or visit www.lith.org.

January 18 — Dave Coulier 8 p.m. at Raue Center for the Arts, at 26 N. Williams St. in Crystal Lake Coulier’s stand-up routine is centered on his ability to mimic celebrities and cartoon characters, a talent that has given him a second career in voice acting. Many of Coulier’s bits involve putting well-known characters into unexpected situations. Coulier has also been known to

include harmonica playing in his act. Tickets start at $24.

For tickets or more information, call 815-356-9212 or visit www.rauecenter.org.

January 23, 24 & 25 — Slidewalk Sales throughout the day in Downtown Crystal Lake Run, slide, skate or ski into Downtown Crystal Lake’s Slidewalk Sales! Don’t let the winter weather stop you from enjoying fabulous bargains at many of your favorite Downtown Crystal Lake retailers. Visit www.downtowncl. org for information on this and other upcoming events.

January 24 — Cary Grove Chamber Annual Dinner & Silent Auction 6 p.m. at D’Andrea Banquets, at 4419 Northwest Highway in Crystal Lake Featuring a cash bar, gourmet buffet and silent auction. Cost is $45 per person. For more information, call 847-639-2800 or visit www.carygrovechamber.com.

January 30 — Tour the History of Algonquin Through Postcards 7 p.m. at the Algonquin Area Public Library, at 2600 Harnish Drive in Algonquin Jeff Jolitz and Don Purn present a history of postcards and how they preserve written and photographic records. Threehundred images of Algonquin, dating back to the early 1900’s. To register or for more information, call 847-4586060 or visit www.aapld.org.

January 30 – February 2 — Groundhog Days at various locations on the Woodstock Square in Downtown Woodstock Don’t miss the annual festival celebrating the classic Bill Murray film, Groundhog Day. The 4-day event features trivia, the Groundhog Dinner, free showings of the film, a walking tour of filming sites, and much more. For more information, call 815-334-2620 or visit http://woodstockgroundhog.org.

January 31 — Wild Canines: Coyote Vs. Wolf 7 p.m. at Glacial Park’s Lost Valley Visitor Center, at Route 31 & Harts Road in Ringwood Canine-related activities and stories around a campfire will follow a tour of the special exhibit “Wolves and Wild Lands in the 21st Century”, looking at the similarities and differences between coyotes and their wolf cousins. For all ages. Cost is free for residents and $2 for non-residents. To register or for more information, call 815-338-6223 or visit www.mccdistrict.org.

January 31 — Everybody’s Hero: The Jackie Robinson Story 12:15 p.m. at Raue Center for the Arts, at 26 N. Williams St. in Crystal Lake Back by popular demand and just in time for African American History Month! When Branch Rickey decided to add a black person to the Brooklyn Dodgers he knew that individual had to be special. He had to be strong enough to stand up and turn the other cheek to the teammates who would ridicule him, the pitchers who would throw at him and the fans who would send him threats. Presented by Mad River Theatre Works. Tickets are $6 for students and $20 for adults. For tickets or more information, call 815-3569212 or visit www.rauecenter.org.

Sound advice may save you hundreds!

artist

showcase

baskets, boxes, fondues, so much to choose from... f Special Occasions

Celebrate every special occasion with chocolate!

Holidays, weddings, birthdays, awards.

FRANKI MARTIN | McHenry “TUBE AGATE”

Franki Martin is an award winning metal clay artist. Her work is created using a specialized fine silver clay.

Once she sculpts, carves and finishes her design in the clay form, it is placed into a jeweler’s kiln. This allows the organic binder in the clay to burn off and the silver molecules fuse together resulting in a Pure, Fine Silver (99.9) piece of jewelry.

Gift of Thanks

ue a Fond Have

Customize your gift by selecting from our large collection of specialty chocolate molds or personalize chocolate with your company’s logo.

Party

We are the leader in creating and hosting memorable chocolate parties.

• neighborhood gatherings • corporate events • girl’s night out • birthday parties

2755 W. Algonquin Road Algonquin • 847.458.8585 We ship anywhere in the US. www.morkesalgonquin.com

RUN, SLIDE into

SKATE OR SKI

Downtown Crystal Lake’s Annual

SLIDEWALK SALES January 23, 24 & 25 Don’t let the winter weather stop you from enjoying fabulous bargains at many of your favorite Downtown Crystal Lake retailers

“Crazy Lace Agate” and “Apple Coral”

by FRANKI MARTIN 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.”

A Premier Illinois Main Street Community

815.479.0835 www.downtowncl.org

Don’t Let These Sales Slide By! MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | JANUARY 2014 | 47