NWH Best of the Fox 2021

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

BEST OF THE FOX

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The Best of the Best 2021 Contents

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ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT & TRAVEL

9 10 16 20 23 25 31 32 34 37 40 45

AUTOMOTIVE DINING: FAVORITE FOODS DINING: FAVORITE PLACES HEALTH & WELLNESS HOUSE & HOME: RETAIL HOUSE & HOME: SERVICES PERSONAL SERVICES PET CARE PROFESSIONAL SERVICES RETAIL: FOOD & BEVERAGE RETAIL: SPECIALTY

Welcome to the 2021 Northwest Herald Readers’ Choice Awards section, representing McHenry County.

The Best of the Fox! This section announces this year’s winners as voted on by the public.

We are all aware of how trying the last 18 months have been on all of us personally and on all our local businesses. It has been a period of unknown, that has tested us all, as we find our paths through this pandemic. It is exciting to see the businesses that have remained open and found ways to adapt, survive and continue to provide their products or services to our communities. The businesses in McHenry County help to define us as a community, and help to showcase the best of what McHenry County has to offer, not only to locals, but to visitors

from all over the country.

It is important that we continue to frequent and support all the businesses of McHenry County while they work hard to battle through this tough environment. Each year, we ask the area to vote on who they believe are doing a great job of meeting our needs. Today, we publish the list of businesses that the public has chosen to represent the various categories.

We want to thank all the voters that took the time and made their votes count. If we had no voters, there would be no winners. I am amazed each year to see the number of voters that do cast votes.

Like it has in so many ways, the Covid-19 pandemic affected how we were able run the contest this year, and we were unable to host our traditional

awards celebration. However, it did not change the purpose of the contest to recognize and celebrate the businesses in our community.

Congratulations to all of the winners who placed in the 2021 contest. We look forward to seeing you all display your Best of the Fox materials to let the public know that you are proud of your business and the employees that make it so good.

To the residents of McHenry County, I ask you to get out and support not only these winners, but all the businesses that make our area so great.

Please Shop Local!

– Jim Ringness is the General Manager of the Northwest Herald

SPORTS & RECREATION

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US “ONE OF THE BEST” AUTO REPAIR MECHANICS IN MCHENRY COUNTY

10% OFF ANY SERVICE **EXCLUDES TIRES**

9114 Virginia Road, Unit 107 Lake In The Hills, IL 60156 (224)241-8465|www.jdautospecialists.org Expires 12/31/2021 SM-CL1911186

BEST OF THE FOX

CELEBRATING OUR 23RD YEAR!

3

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

$ THANK YOU!!! THANK YOU!!!

We've been honored again and it's thanks to YOU! We'd like to extend our sincere gratitude for the continued support and for voting us the "Best of the Fox"! We couldn't have done it without our wonderful customers, who, in our opinion, are the "BEST OF THE FOX"!

McHENRY

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FULL SERVICE CAR WASH Does not apply to exterior only wash or deluxe exterior wash. Not valid with any other offer, coupons, or gift card purchases. One coupon per vehicle. Must be presented at time of service. Expires 11/30/21

2150 N. Richmond Rd.

10881 N. IL Route 47

HUNTLEY

CRYSTAL LAKE 485 Pingree Road

330 W. Northwest Hwy.

BARRINGTON

815-363-7100

847-515-2222

815-477-7272

847-381-0530

www.fasteddiescarwashes.com SM-CL1909266

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

BEST OF THE FOX

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The various advantages to shopping locally Residents of a given town or city are often encouraged to support local businesses by looking to these firms to fill their needs. Small businesses are not just integral parts of communities, employing millions across the country, they also are operations that fund the very communities they service.

Efforts to promote shopping local appear to be working.

According to the Commonwealth Financial Group, over the last several years there has been a shift in consumer purchasing behavior marked by a preference among consumers to support locally owned shops and stores over big-box retailers and even online shopping.

The following are some key reasons why shopping locally not only benefits small business owners, but also the communities they call home and the customers they serve.

• More money stays in the community: According to the American Independent Business Alliance, for every $100 spent at a local business, $68 remains in the community. Conversely, only 43 percent of every $100 spent at a chain retailer stays in the community.

• Job creation: The Business Alliance for Local Living Economies says local businesses create the majority of economic growth. They employ millions of Americans by creating roughly two-thirds of private sector jobs. Local business owners also tend to hire people who represent the demographics of the communities where the business is located, which may include historically underserved populations.

products and services to meet the needs of the local communities, whereas chain stores often stock their shelves based on national demands.

• Personalized service: A small business owner may be more inclined to go to great lengths to make customers happy because the long-term success of the business depends on customers becoming repeat customers.

• Personal connection: Knowing the people behind a business facilitates a connection not easily achieved with other companies.

Customers may celebrate when a favorite business succeeds and look to spread the word about that business because they feel like they played a positive role in its success.

Shopping locally has gained momentum and is fueled by the many advantages to supporting local businesses.

• Diversity of products: Local stores tend to diversify their

Fox Valley Animal Hospital, Ltd. Your Pet’s Personal Physicians

Thank You for voting us one of the Best Veterinarian in McHenry County!

6115 Northwest Highway • Crystal Lake, IL 60014 • 815.459..0317 Located by Main St.

Hours: MON-FRI: 8:00-6:00 SAT 8:00-2:00 SM-CL1911566

5

Voted The BEST! WINNER!!!

Northwest Herald’s Reader Choice Awards

S inc

e 196 5

Celebrating 55 Years!

815-385-1530

3917 Main St. McHenry, IL

PlumGardenRestaurant.com

20% OFF

Dine In or Carry Out Plum Garden Restaurant

815-385-1530

3917 Main St. McHenry, IL With this coupon. Coupon Code: WINNER! One per order, per party. Not valid with any other offers. EXPIRES 10/04/21.

THANK YOU! Your PG Family! :) SM-CL1908629

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

BEST CHINESE RESTAURANT - 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020 & 2021 BEST EGG ROLL - 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018, 2019, 2020& 2021

BEST OF THE FOX

Garde m u n Pl

Arts, Entertainment & Travel

6 BEST OF THE FOX

ART GALLERY

Best The Dole

One of the Best • Abantu Arts Fusion • Starline Factory

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

FESTIVAL

Best McHenry Fiesta Days One of the Best • The Dole Lakeside Festival • Woodstock Groundhog Days

BIRTHDAY PARTY VENUE

Best Twisted Limits Laser Tag & Nerf Arena One of the Best • 31 North Banquets & Catering • EscapeQuest

FUNDRAISING EVENT

BY A NONPROFIT

Best The Dole Lakeside Festival One of the Best • Blues Brews & BBQ • Operation Wild Horse

PLACE TO GO JUST FOR FUN

Best Twisted Limits Escape Rooms One of the Best • EscapeQuest • Joe Diamond Studio

KARAOKE

Best Rocco Z Music One of the Best • Rock This Town Entertainment • Double J Entertainment

PLACE TO LISTEN TO LIVE MUSIC

Best Raue Center For The Arts

We wish to thank our wonderful customers and great staff for making us

BEST

Breakfast • Omelette Pancakes • Outdoor Dining Kids Menu • Vegetarian Dining Gluten Free Menu

THE MOST AWARDED RESTAURANT IN MCHENRY COUNTY

liams Street • Cr ystal Lake, IL 40 N. Wil 60014 0 0 5 6 9 5 8 1 5 -4 Like Us On

www.benedictseggs.com

SM-CL1908435

7

BEST OF THE FOX Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

SM-CL1911298

One of the Best • Broken Oar Marina - Bar & Grill • Hidden Pearl Coffee

TRAVEL AGENCY

Best Cary Travel Express

MOVIE THEATER

One of the Best • Worldwide Traveler Ltd. • Crystal Lake Travel

One of the Best • Classic Cinemas Woodstock Theatre • McHenry Downtown Indoor Theater

PLACE TO WATCH LIVE THEATER

Best McHenry Outdoor Theater

MUSIC LESSONS

Best Victory Voice

One of the Best • Encore Music Academy • Rocco Z Music

THEATRE COMPANY/GROUP

Best • Raue Center For The Arts • Williams Street Repertory

Best Raue Center For The Arts One of the Best • Joe Diamond Studio • Woodstock Opera House

WEDDING VENUE

Best 31 North Banquets & Catering One of the Best • Starline Factory • Smith’s Central Weddings & Events

Thank You! To the community for Voting The Dole the following.

The BEST:

Fundraising Event by a Non-Profit

One of the Best: Festival

One of the Best: Farmer Markets

The BEST: Art Gallery

THEDOLE.ORG

One of the Best • CYT Chicago

The Dole | 401 Country Club Road | Crystal Lake, IL

Crystal Lake

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US THE BEST STORE FOR KIDS! SM-CL1911143

40 N. Williams St. #J • Crystal Lake, Illinois 60014 (815) 444-6780 • crystallake@colormemine.com

THANK YOU for voting us

The Best Gymnastics/Cheer!

SM-CL1911567

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

BEST OF THE FOX

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387 East Congress Parkway | Crystal Lake, IL 60014 Email: clgtc2@yahoo.com | 815-477-4111 | clgtc.com

Thanks for voting us One of the Best Bloody Marys and One of the Best Neighborhood Bars!

101 E. Church St. Woodstock, IL 60098 www.ortmannsredirontavern.com @ortmanns_redirontavern

SM-CL1912715

Automotive

TIRE STORE

Best C&A Auto Body

One of the Best • Adams Auto Body and Service Center • R&K Auto Body

One of the Best • Northtown Auto Service and Tire Center • Discount Tire, Algonquin

AUTO REPAIR MECHANIC

One of the Best • Northtown Auto Service and Tire Center • JD Auto Specialists

CAR WASH/DETAILING

Best Fast Eddie’s Full Service Car Wash & Detail Center One of the Best • Unicorn Details McHenry • Matt’s Express Wash

Fun Fact

This Best of the Fox winners section is also published online at NWHerald.com, available to digital and print subscribers of the Northwest Herald.

BEST OF THE FOX 2021.

Voted One of the best in Three categories!

Breakfast, Omelettes, and Pancakes HOME OF THE STUFFED POTATO PANCAKE

& THE PANCAKE BERRY BURRITO

BREAKFAST ALL DAY SERVING 1030 McHenry Ave. CrystalLake, IL 815-477-8118

www.tonyscafebreakfastallday.com #TONYSCAFE @TONYSCAFECL

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

Best Quality Tire Service

9 BEST OF THE FOX

Best Quality Tire Service

AUTO BODY REPAIR

Dining: Favorite Foods

10

BBQ RIBS

BEST OF THE FOX

Best Goal Line Sports Bar & Grill One of the Best • BBQ King Smokehouse • Crystal Lake Rib House

BLOODY MARY

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

Best Benedict’s La Strata

BREAKFAST

One of the Best • Tony’s Cafe • Cafe Olympic

BURGER

Best Tracks Bar & Grill

CHICKEN WINGS

Best Goal Line Sports Bar & Grill One of the Best • Wings Etc. • Jexals Wing-Zeria

EGG ROLL

One of the Best • Goal Line Sports Bar & Grill • Ortmann’s Red Iron Tavern

Best Benedict’s La Strata

One of the Best • Goal Line Sports Bar & Grill • Breaking Bread Catering & Deli

Best Plum Garden One of the Best • Chop Suey Hut • The Breakers Restaurant

FISH FRY

Best Rusty Nail Saloon One of the Best • Goal Line Sports Bar & Grill • Tracks Bar & Grill

COMPLIMENTARY DIGITAL SAFETY INSPECTION WITH PHOTOS sent via text!

Scan for a sample inspection

A few of our 460 reviews via Google…

“I went to them purely based on Google reviews and I was not disappointed!”

“I’m astounded by the level of detail taken in every inspection.”

“This place is one of the best car care places I’ve ever experienced.”

“So happy doing business with them. They feel like friends.”

“The Most Recommended & Reviewed Auto Repair Center in McHenry County”

Thank you to our wonderful customers and great staff!

SM-CL1913391

3800 McCullom Lake Road, McHenry, IL 60050 Phone: 815-363-2886 northtownautoservice.com

11 BEST OF THE FOX

T E N

Y E A R S

S T R A I G H T

Thank You For All of Your Votes!!!

Proud to be woman and veteran owned!

Have your event catered by one of the best caterers in McHenry County!

HOST YOUR EVENT AT OUR AWARD WINNING VENUE • Weddings, Anniversaries, Showers, Engagement Parties, Private Events • Private Bridal Suite • Indoor & Outdoor Ceremony Options

Weddings • Grand Openings • Showers Family Reunions • Holiday Parties Family Celebrations Customized menus to fit your event!

Please call to schedule your private tour today!!

experience

217 Front St. (Rt. 31) • McHenry, IL

815-344-0330

located one mile South of Rt. 120

www.31NorthBanquets.com SM-CL1909187

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

2012-2021 AWARD WINNING BANQUETS & CATERING

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

BEST OF THE FOX

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HOT DOG

Best Portillo’s

One of the Best • Mixteca • Antigua Mexican Grill

One of the Best • Gianelli’s Drive-Thru • Breaking Bread Catering & Deli

Best 1776 Restaurant

ICE CREAM/FROZEN CUSTARD

Best Julie Ann’s Frozen Custard

for voting C&A the Best Auto Body Repair Center in McHenry County!!!!

MARTINI

One of the Best • da Baffone Cucina Italiana • Cucina Bella

OMELET

Best Benedict’s La Strata

One of the Best • Rusty Malt • The Freeze

THANK YOU

FAMILY OWNED & SERVING THE COMMUNITY SINCE 1972 • FREE ESTIMATES • PDR • EXPERT ON-SITE MIXING AND TINTING LAB • FEATURING CHIEF EZ-LINER FRAME STRAIGHTENING RACK

• AUTO BODY REPAIR & REFINISHING • CARS & TRUCKS • DOMESTIC & FOREIGN • INSURANCE WORK • FIBERGLASS WORK

One of the Best • Tony’s Cafe • Brunch Cafe, McHenry

ITALIAN BEEF

Best Portillo’s

PANCAKES

One of the Best • Breaking Bread Catering & Deli • Gianelli’s Drive-Thru

MARGARITA

Best El Gordo Mexican Restaurant

Best Benedict’s La Strata One of the Best • Tony’s Cafe • Windhill Pancake Parlor

@C&AAUTOBODY

WE’LL MAKE YOU HAPPY! WWW.CA-AUTOBODY.COM

DEREK & DAN GRAFF 815-728-0144 CAAUTO@COMCAST.NET 7140 BARNARD MILL RD. WONDER LAKE, IL SM-CL1911472

We’re Proud to have been Voted THE BEST Roofing Company in McHenry County!

Dynico Roofing Roofing • Siding • Gutters “Prehistoric Prices” SM-CL1911447

815-385-2102

Thank you to all of the couples who allowed us to bless you on your wedding days, and thank you to our community who continue to bless us with your business and support.

We are so honored to be voted the BEST Wedding Cake and the BEST Bakery!

Thank you for voting us The Best Real Estate Company!

Re/Max Plaza

112 North Benton St., Woodstock, IL 60098 10436 N. IL Rt 47, Huntley SM-CL1907165

847-802-4543

(205) 365-5113

rebeccakirchner.remax.com

13 BEST OF THE FOX

for voting us the

BEST Mexican Restaurant and Margarita second year in a row!

FREE

Chips & Salsa One time use. Must present coupon.

Buy One Get One FREE

Margaritas

One time use. Must present coupon.

815-344-2834 • elgordomexrest.com Hours: 10 AM - 9 PM • 929 Front St, McHenry, IL 60050 SM-CL1908649

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

Thank You McHenry County

14 Thank You for Voting us One of the Best Cosmetic Skin Care, Day Spas and Nail Salons!

SM-CL1911549

5657 Northwest Highway Suite C1 Crystal Lake, Illinois 60014 815-893-4340 saloncora@gmail.com

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US ONE OF THE BEST POOL CARE COMPANIES IN MCHENRY COUNTY!

SM-CL1913484

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

BEST OF THE FOX

Thank you for Voting Us The Best Pizza

224.888.8100

ORDER ONLINE TODAY! WWW.LAPIZZAVIA.COM La Pizza Via is an independent family owned restaurant dedicated to the craft of pizza making.

Let us take you on a trip from New Haven to Chicago, stopping in New York City and Detroit along the way!

ALSO FEATURING: • Stuffed Breads • Calzones • Garlic Knots • Pastas • Great Salads • Appetizers & Desserts

Open Daily For Lunch And Dinner Closed Mondays

914 ROUTE 22, FOX RIVER GROVE Clean

Clear

Beautiful Pools

3309 STATE RTE 31 • CRYSTAL LAKE, IL 60012 • 815-261-8947 • POOLWERKS.COM

CATERING • TAKE OUT • DELIVERY • DINE IN

SM-CL1911133

PIZZA

One of the Best • That’s Amore Pizza • Georgio’s Chicago Pizzeria & Pub

Best Benedict’s La Strata

SEAFOOD

Best da Baffone Cucina Italiana

Best Interior Designer | 202 Best of the Fox

Thank You

for your vote!

VEGETARIAN

At Whi White te Oak In Inter Interiors terior ter iors we love working with all clients to create unique, functional design and décor personalized especially for them.

One of the Best • Golden Rolls Sushi Bar & Grill • Port Edward Restaurant

171 S. Main Street | Unit C | Crystal Lake, IL | WhiteOakInteriors.com | 847-854-8892

STEAKHOUSE

Best Jameson’s Charhouse One of the Best • Addison’s Steakhouse • Texas Roadhouse

SUSHI

Best Golden Rolls Sushi Bar & Grill

THANK YOU

Fun Fact

11,377 people voted in this year’s contest, casting a total of 105,216 votes!

for voting us the best Limo/Private car/Taxi service in McHenry County!

Call today for an appointment

2021

Thank you to the Northwest Herald readers and to all of our fantastic customers for naming Loud Brothers one of the best for Electrician and HVAC “Our Family’s Mission is Your Family’s Comfort!”

• Residential • Commercial

• Industrial

3910 Main St. McHenry, IL 60050 (815) 271-5297 www.loudbrothers.com SM-CL1914979

SM-CL1914817

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

One of the Best • Breaking Bread Catering & Deli • Expressly Leslie Vegetarian Specialties

15 BEST OF THE FOX

Best La Pizza Via

One of the Best • Kyoto Japanese Restaurant • Sakura Japanese Restaurant

Dining: Favorite Places

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BANQUET FACILITY

BEST OF THE FOX

Best 31 North Banquets & Catering One of the Best • D’Andrea Banquets & Conference • Elara Convention Center

CATERER - ON SITE

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

Best Breaking Bread Catering & Deli One of the Best • 31 North Banquets & Catering • Meals Like Moms

CHINESE RESTAURANT

Best Plum Garden

One of the Best • Chop Suey Hut • Chen Chinese Cuisine

COFFEE SHOP

Best Taste of Benedicts & More

266 E. Prairie St. Crystal Lake, 60014 815-459-2140

Thank you for voting us one of the best Auto Body Repair SM-CL1910384

One of the Best • Hidden Pearl Coffee • Conscious Cup Coffee Roasters

DELI

Best Butcher on the Block One of the Best • Nana’s New York Deli • Breaking Bread Catering & Deli

DINING ON THE WATERFRONT

Best Port Edward Restaurant

One of the Best • The Lake House on Pistakee • After The Fox

DONUT SHOP

Best Country Donuts

One of the Best • Riverside Bake Shop • Roll N Donut Cafe & Douangchay’s Kitchen

Thank You

17 BEST OF THE FOX

Thank you for voting us one of the best fitness studios, pilates studios and best yoga.

Thank You for voting us the BEST music store in McHenry County!

20% OFF

any item with this ad.

SM-CL1910489

3902 Main St • McHenry, IL • 815-347-8363

We provide you with successful tax and financial strategies to help improve your net worth, protect your financial security, and create prosperity in both personal and business finances. The Architect of your Business!

11017 N. Woodstock St. Huntley, IL 847-458-2460 www.LauraMraz.com

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

1500 Carlemont Drive Suite B Crystal Lake, IL 60014 • 815.687.4100 15 Open all Week! Check classes for hours and availability SM-CL1910113

Who invented the banana split?

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

BEST OF THE FOX

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Ice cream aficionados enjoy it in many different forms — from cups to cones — but sundaes truly can be the ultimate treats. The impressive and often enormous “banana split” may be the king of all sundaes, with ice cream shops scooping them out in record numbers when the weather warms.

Because banana splits are so large, they’re often the perfect desserts to share on date night.

When taking a spoonful of banana split, some people may ponder where this sweet reward came from. As with many food origin stories, various people lay claim as the inventor of the banana split. A trusted historical account points to Latrobe, Pa. as the home of the first banana split. Legend has it that Latrobe pharmacy owner David Strickler sliced a banana in two, added scoops of vanilla, chocolate and strawberry ice cream, three kinds of flavored toppings, and whipped cream in

1904. Strickler also enlisted the help of a glassmaker to create the first “banana boat” vessel to house his newfangled dessert.

Other cities, including Boston and Wilmington, Ohio, also claim to be birthplaces of this beloved dessert. In fact, Wilmington holds fast to their banana split creation story and even hosts its annual Banana Split Festival.

Even though these dessert giants battled it out as banana split inventors, Walgreens pharmacy ultimately is credited with helping to make banana splits popular across the country after adopting the dish as the pharmacy’s signature dessert.

Dig into these other fun banana split and ice cream facts.

• The banana scientifically is classified as a berry because a berry must contain seeds inside the flesh and not outside.

• Around 0.074 pounds of bananas per person per day are consumed in the United States.

• The first banana split cost 10 cents. That may seem like a bargain, but it was double the cost of other sundaes.

• Romans purportedly sent people into the mountains to collect snow that they flavored with fruits and juices to create an early version of ice cream.

• Around 50 percent of the volume of ice cream is air, which gives the dessert its light and creamy texture.

• You’ll want to make your banana split with a ripe, yellow banana.

A green banana starts out very starchy. As the fruit yellows, the starch turns into sugars.

• A traditional recipe for a banana split contains around 1,000 calories.

FINE DINING

Best 1776 Restaurant

One of the Best • Bimbo’s Italian Restaurant • Cucina Bella

NEIGHBORHOOD BAR

Best Labemi’s Tavern & Restaurant

One of the Best • Offsides Sports Bar & Grill • Halftime Bar & Grill

One of the Best • Montarra • Cucina Bella

Best Benedict’s La Strata

KIDS MENU

One of the Best • Goal Line Sports Bar & Grill • Ortmann’s Red Iron Tavern

Best Breaking Bread Catering & Deli

One of the Best • Cucina Bella • Goal Line Sports Bar & Grill

OUTDOOR/PATIO DINING

PLACE TO GO ON A FIRST DATE

Best 1776 Restaurant

One of the Best • Breaking Bread Catering & Deli • Cucina Bella

GLUTEN FREE MENU

Best Benedict’s La Strata

One of the Best • Breaking Bread Catering & Deli • 1776 Restaurant

ITALIAN RESTAURANT

Best da Baffone Cucina Italiana

SUB SHOP

Best Benedict’s La Strata

One of the Best • Algonquin Sub Shop • Butcher on the Block

LOCAL CRAFT BREWERY

One of the Best • Goal Line Sports Bar & Grill • Rusty Nail Saloon

Best Labemi’s Tavern & Restaurant

One of the Best • Sew Hop’d Brewery & Taproom • Kishwaukee Brewing Co.

RESTAURANT THAT USES LOCAL OR ORGANIC FOODS

Best Crystal Lake Brewing

MEXICAN RESTAURANT

Best El Gordo Mexican Restaurant One of the Best • Antigua Mexican Grill • El Niagara

Best 1776 Restaurant

One of the Best • Duke’s Alehouse and Kitchen • UpRooted

SPORTS BAR

Best Goal Line Sports Bar & Grill

TAVERN/PUB

One of the Best • The Gamblur • Goal Line Sports Bar & Grill

Fun Fact

Most every year, a Best of the Fox mixer is held for winners to network and celebrate!

19 BEST OF THE FOX

Your Local Family Owned and Operated Bath Remodeling Company Thank You for Voting Us One Of The Best Home Remodelers In McHenry County

Call Us For your Complimentary Consultation

Chrysalis Award Winner for Professional Excellence In the Remodeling Industry for a 10-State Region

Thank You

815-893-0282 SM-CL1913477

for Voting Us the

Best Attorney in McHenry County!

820 E. Terra Cotta Ave, Suite 203 Crystal Lake, IL 60014 815-893-0020 www.GehrisLaw.com SM-CL1910498

ned and operated w o y l i m a F We would like to

THANK ALL OUR CUSTOMERS for voting us one of the BEST flooring stores in McHenry County!

WE MAKE GETTING A NEW FLOOR EASY E XPERT INSTALL ATIONS Carpet • Vinyl • Wood • Vinyl Plank • Ceramic Commercial and Residential

3812 N. RICHMOND RD., (RT 31), JOHNSBURG • (815) 385-4069

WWW.KE N NYS FLOOR S.COM SM-CL1908706

NOW OFFERING

SHOP AT HOME SERVICE

Our showroom is cleaned and sanitized daily!

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

“Experience the Diamond Difference.”

Health & Wellness

BEST OF THE FOX

20

CHIROPRACTIC OFFICE

Best PWC Chiropractic

One of the Best • Lifetime Vision & Contact Lens Center • Johnson Eye Care

One of the Best • A to Z Chiropractic • Crystal Lake Family Wellness

Best 416 Pilates

FITNESS STUDIO

Best CrossFit Prevail

One of the Best • Happy Hour Yoga • TruFitness

One of the Best • CrossFit AMRAP • CrossFit Huntley

Best TruFitness

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

CROSSFIT

HEALTH CLUB

DENTIST OFFICE

One of the Best • Sage YMCA • 416 Pilates

One of the Best • Ridgeview Family Dental • Cary Grove Dental

HEALTH FOOD STORE

Best Cary Dental Associates LLC

EYE DOCTOR

Best Nature’s Cornucopia

Best Coventry Eyecare Associates Ltd

One of the Best • Crystal Lake Health Food Store • Fresh Thyme Market

Thank you for voting us THE BEST HAIR SALON & One of the Best Hair Stylist – Charles One of the Best Hair Stylists – Melanie

4075 W. Algonquin Rd. Algonquin, IL 60102

847.458.7299 | www.chazios.com

Thanks For Voting Us

SM-CL1910289

Best Liquor Store and Best Wine Shops!

Homemade specials daily. Fresh fish selection, Fridays.

16 oz. prime rib, Saturday night.

Outdoor seating overlooking the Fox River!

1406 N. Riverside Dr. McHenry • 815-344-3760

BARRINGTON

CRYSTAL LAKE

NORRIDGE

PALATINE

PROSPECT HEIGHTS

340 W. NORTHWEST HWY. (ROUTE 14) BARRINGTON, IL 60010 (847) 387-3676

320 S. VIRGINIA ST. (ROUTE 14) CRYSTAL LAKE, IL 60014 (815) 459-4050

4601 N. HARLEM AVE. NORRIDGE, IL 60706 (708) 457-1000

15 S. BROCKWAY ST. OFF OF PALATINE ROAD PALATINE, IL 60067 (847) 359-0400

1 E. CAMP MCDONALD RD. (ROUTE 83) PROSPECT HEIGHTS IL, 60070 (224) 735-3991

SM-CL1909889

MASSAGE THERAPY

One of the Best • A to Z Chiropractic • Paul Hyland Salon and Day Spa

MEMORY CARE FACILITY

Best Shepherd Premier Senior Living

ORTHODONTICS

Best Conlon & Thompson Orthodontics One of the Best • Hoffman Orthodontics • Dr. Gregory F. Kubik

PHYSICAL THERAPY

Best Smith Physical Therapy + Running Academy One of the Best • Athletico Physical Therapy • Given Sports & Physical Therapy

PILATES STUDIO

Best 416 Pilates

One of the Best • Happy Hour Yoga • Pilates Body by Kirsten

2400-A Johnsburg Road | Johnsburg, IL 60051 815-363-1117 Office • 815-363-1118 Fax • www.paradisefinancial.biz Helping you make your dreams come true.

Securities offered ffered ffer ed through throu throu hrough gh OneAmerica OneAm OneAm neAmeric ericaa Securities, eric Securi Securi curities ties,, Inc., ties In a Registered Regist Regist gistered ered Investment Investm Inv estment estm ent Advisor, Advi Member Member FINRA, FINRA, SIPC. SIPC. Paradise Par Financial Partners is not an affiliate of OneAmerica Securities and is not a broker dealer or Registered Investment Advisor.

SM-CL1909623

Thank you for voting us the Best Pediatrician!

390 Congress Parkway, Suite J Crystal Lake, IL 60014 815-322-9300 • wellrootedpediatrics.com

s U g n i t o V r o f ! w o R Thanks a n i s r a e Y 9 x o F e Best of th

SM-CL1909660

We MakeYour Life Better at Home

Visit us in Crystal Lake, Palatine, and St. Charles | 877-772-3209 | ARVIDSONS.COM

SM-CL1912654

PEDIATRICIAN

Best Well-Rooted Pediatrics

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

One of the Best • Clarendale of Algonquin • McHenry County Valley Hi Nursing Home

21

Thank you McHenry County for voting us The Best Financial Advisor in McHenry County for 2021.

We appreciate your confidence with our services.

BEST OF THE FOX

Best Natural Therapy Wellness Center

One of the Best • Christine Poulos, MD: Back to Basics Pediatrics, SC • Pediatric Associates of Barrington

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

BEST OF THE FOX

22

We Were Honored to Win One of the Best: Memory Care Facilities Fox Readers’ Choice Awards 2021

The readers have spoken and we couldn’t be more appreciative of the voters and proud of our own residents and team members. In addition to specialized memory care, Clarendale of Algonquin offers independent living and assisted living—all with modern residences, great amenities and unprecedented hospitality and care services. Take a closer look at our award-winning community.

TO E X P E R I E N C E AWA R D - W I N N I N G C L A R E N DA L E , C A L L 8 4 7 - 2 6 2 - 9 6 3 0.

INDEPENDENT LIVING | ASSISTED LIVING | MEMORY CARE

web

ClarendaleOfAlgonquin.com

2001 West Algonquin Road | Algonquin, IL 60102 8-21

SENIOR LIVING

YOGA

HOME DECOR

Best Happy Hour Yoga

Best A-Z Interiors

One of the Best • Fair Oaks Health Care Center • McHenry County Valley Hi Nursing Home

One of the Best • Sweet Feet Yoga • Melt Pilates & Yoga

One of the Best • Brush Home Decor & Paint Studio • Fiddlestiks

Best Sherwin-Williams Paint Store

MATTRESS

Best Steinhafels

PAINT

One of the Best • JC Licht • Ace Hardware, McHenry

House & Home: Retail APPLIANCE STORE

Best Gulgren Appliance

One of the Best • Ehrke’s Appliance • Grand Appliance and TV

FLOORING

Best Howell’s Flooring and More One of the Best • Kenny’s Floor Covering Inc • Murphy’s Flooring

FURNITURE

Best Steinhafels

One of the Best • Amish Furniture Gallery • Donahue Furniture Co

GARDEN CENTER

Best Countryside Flower Shop, Nursery and Garden Center

One of the Best • The Barn Nursery & Landscape Center • Harms Farm & Garden Center

HARDWARE STORE

Best Ace Hardware, McHenry One of the Best • Ziegler’s Ace Hardware • Richmond Ace Hardware & Rental

The sight of professional painters decked out in white overalls is a familiar one to many people. Perhaps you’ve pondered just why painters wear white? The reasons behind painters’ sartorial choices is not easily verifiable, but it’s fun to explore nonetheless.

The actual name for a painting professionals wardrobe is “painter’s whites.”

White canvas or denim pants, white t-shirt, overalls, and a white cap are often worn by painters. The idea of wearing white may date back to the 1700s, when there were not a variety of house colors available. As a result, white was the primary choice of paint at this time. If white paint were to be dripped on a white uniform, it wouldn’t be readily noticed before laundering.

It is also believed that some painters crafted clothing from the white sails from ships.

Another theory behind painters’ preference for white work gear traces its origins to 19th

century union painters. Those in the union adopted the allwhite uniform to differentiate themselves from non-union painters. Sometimes a black bow tie was added to complete the professional presentation.

There are some practical reasons for painters to wear white. White clothing tends to be cooler when working outdoors or in sunny locations.

Should painter’s whites become dirty, they’re easily bleachable without the color fading. Also, white is a pristine color that will present the appearance of cleanliness. Homeowners may readily invite and trust a clean worker into their homes to get the job done.

Painters often find that their business logo stands out sharply against the white of a uniform, which can be another practical reason to don some white overalls. White clothing also can be less expensive to replace.

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

S R E T N I A P O D WHY ?

E T I H W R A E W

23 BEST OF THE FOX

Best Shepherd Premier Senior Living

One of the Best • Verlo Mattress • American Mattress

24 BEST OF THE FOX

Voted 2021 Best

Appliance Store & Appliance Repair

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

in McHenry County!

“We Thank you for your continued support!”

SALES • SERVICE • PARTS Family Owned & Operated In Crystal Lake Since 1959

Vitamins Herbs CBD Vegan Gluten Free Organics

(815) 477-2020 • 560 Beechcraft Lane • Crystal Lake, IL 60012 SM-CL1911582

Rt. 31

Thanks for Voting us One of the Best Shooting Ranges!

Oak St.

4

.1

Rt

SM-CL1910099

X

Rt. 176

424 W. Terra Cotta Ave. (Rt. 176 & Oak) Crystal Lake

815-459-4380

Thank You for voting us The Best Health Food Store!

Naturescornucopia.com 1717 N Richmond Road (Rt. 31) • McHenry, IL 60051 815.385.4500 • Fax: 815.385.26967 Mon-Fri 9-7 • Sat 9-5 • Sun 9-3 SM-CL1910485

Small kitchen improvements that maximize functionality

House & Home: Services

ELECTRICIAN

Best Gulgren Appliance

APPLIANCE REPAIR

Best Black Diamond Plumbing & Mechanical Inc.

One of the Best • Ehrke’s Appliance • Appliance Marshall Repair

One of the Best • Althoff Industries, Inc. • Loud Brothers

CARPET CLEANER

Best Clean Bee Flooring & Upholstery Care One of the Best • Howell’s Flooring and More • Freddy’s Carpet Cleaning Plus

DECK BUILDER

FENCE COMPANY

Best WoodMaster Fence

One of the Best • Aronson Fence Co., Inc. • Mike Meier & Sons Fence Manufacturing Inc.

HOME BUILDER

Best Rock Solid Builders, Inc.

Best Scholl Construction Company

One of the Best • Decked Out Builders • MasterCut General Home Repair and Remodeling

One of the Best • Gerstad Builders • Above Par Construction Inc.

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

worthy kitchen featuring an island, wine refrigerator and walk-in pantry. However, homeowners with small kitchens can still improve the form and function of their existing spaces.

Reconfigure and revamp cabinetry Homeowners whose kitchens are

and then think about which appliances will serve them well.

Homeowners with small kitchens may not need a large stand mixer or an oversized commercial stove.

Add some glass The DIY Network recommends incorporating glass to improve the perception of space in small kitchens. Glass lets you see through the objects, thereby enhancing the feeling of spaciousness or what designers call “negative space.”

Glass also can be reflective, visually expanding the space.

Embrace high-end materials It costs less to renovate small spaces than bigger areas, so homeowners may be able to afford high-end materials that really add personality to a kitchen.

Flooring, counter materials and quality fixtures can really set small kitchens apart.

Small kitchens can be culinary havens with the right improvements to maximize the space.

BEST OF THE FOX

Many homeowners wish for expansive kitchens. Modernized kitchens that include sought after features and showcase the latest trends go a long way to improving the overall value of a home.

As desirable as such kitchens may be, some homes simply don’t have enough space for a centerfold-

small often lament their lack of storage. Redesigning the layout of cabinets, and possibly adding some more cabinetry, may take care of certain storage issues. Experts suggest utilizing corner space with LeMans units, lazy susans and other gadgets to make access to these areas easier. Going vertical with wall cabinets that extend to the ceiling also can add more storage, as can roll-in work carts.

Work with the walls Small kitchens require clever usage of vertical space. Vertical storage units, hooks and shelving can move items out of drawers and off of counters. Consider an under-the-cabinet toaster oven and microwave to create more space.

Use scaled-down appliances Shop with size in mind when looking at new appliances if you have a small kitchen. Compact versions won’t take up as much space as larger alternatives.

Homeowners should consider the ultimate function of the kitchen

25

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

BEST OF THE FOX

26

It's a TRIPLE Play!

Rusty Nail, Rusty Malts & The Gamblur all WON! Thank You, McHenry County, for your Continued Patronage, Support and VOTES!!!!

Familyfriendy atmosphere!

Book your next event with us:

Birthday & anniversary parties, bridal & baby showers, rehearsal dinners, funeral luncheons

ONE OF THE BEST:

THE BEST:

Outdoor/ Patio Dining

Fish Fry

We’re more than an award winning Fish Fry... try the rest of our menu! featuring: • New seasonal menu items • Full taco menu every Tuesday • Broasted chicken • Awesome filets • Homemade pizza • crab legs, lobster and shrimp specials • Saturday prime rib and surf & turf specials • Breakfast Saturdays & Sundays from 8am to noon

ONE OF THE BEST:

Ice Cream/ Frozen Custard Next to the Nail!

FEATURES: DRIVE-UP WINDOW! 40 flavors of Cedar Crest ice cream!

Signature "malts" and themed shakes"!

We offer something for everyone!

• Big screen TV • Gaming - new, updated slots • Terrific outdoor patio and fire pit • Carryouts available

ONE OF THE BEST:

Tavern /Pub The Gamblur…An Icon Returns!

Located in beautiful downtown McHenry and established in 1984, the Gamblur is your home for delicious food and beverages and gaming! Combining the finest features of the Rusty Nail and Gamblur we can’t wait to reunite with old friends and ones we’ve yet to meet.

Visit us by car, truck, horse, tractor, bike, snowmobile “Remember...the trail ends at the Nail!”

Located on the bike trail at 4520 Ringwood Road, Ringwood, IL 815-728-3017 • www.rustynailringwood.com SM-CL1907154

We appreciate your confidence with our services.

• Massage Therapy • Acupuncture • Prenatal Massage • Lymphatic Drainage • Pain Relief Thanks for voting for us since 2011!

(815) (815) 385-8190 385 8 mchenrymassage.com

SM-CL1910486

1307 Court Street McHenry, IL 60050

Thank Thank You You to to everyone everyone who who voted voted us us

THE BEST PET STORE in in McHenry McHenry County!

County!

Thank you for voting for us

The BEST Ladies’ Clothing g Boutique

REESES &

BARKERY

We’ve got your size: XS-3X, Denim 0-20 SM-CL1914310

YOUR PETS, OUR PASSION!

1313 N RIVERSIDE DRIVE MCHENRY, IL

in a Row

We want you to look your best!

Jeans • Dresses • Tops • Jewelry

PAWTIQUE

815-363-PAWS

7th Year

66 N. Williams St, Crystal Lake

815-455-7500

Visit our Facebook page WearDidUGetThat.com

THANK YOU MCHENRY COUNTY

Voted One of the Best Restaurants that uses Local and Organic Foods!

JOIN US FOR A UNIQUE MENU FEATURING THE BEST OF STEAKS, SEAFOOD, LAMB, CHICKEN, PASTA AND SPECIALITY SANDWICHES. ENJOY OUR "ADULT" DESSERT CART AND TABLE SIDE SALADS

Open for lunch and dinner. Dine Healthy...Dine Delicious!

SM-CL1914122

DON'T FORGET TO VISIT OUR GAMING AREA! 2816. Rte 120, McHenry, IL • 815-679-6996 Visit us at: uprooted-mchenry.com

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

Best of the Fox got its name from the Fox River. When the contest was started in 2002, the Northwest Herald was doing more projects with its sister paper, the Kane County Chronicle in St. Charles. The Fox River was something that connected the two counties!

The Best Massage Therapy Center!!

27 BEST OF THE FOX

Fun Fact

Thank you McHenry County for voting us:

HOME REMODELER

One of the Best • Countryside Flower Shop, Nursery and Garden Center • Forever Gardens Perennial

Best Scholl Construction Company One of the Best • Innovative Home Concepts, Inc • Diamond Bath

ROOFING

Best Dynico Roofing

One of the Best • Innovative Home Concepts, Inc • Above Par Construction Inc.

PAINTER - INDOOR/OUTDOOR

Best R&J Painting LLC

HVAC

One of the Best • Old School Painting • JP Interiors, LLC

Best Althoff Industries, Inc. One of the Best • Black Diamond Plumbing & Mechanical Inc. • Loud Brothers

PLUMBER

Best Black Diamond Plumbing & Mechanical Inc.

INTERIOR DESIGNER

One of the Best • Althoff Industries, Inc. • Liberty Oak Plumbing, LLC

Best White Oak Interiors

One of the Best • A-Z Interiors • Decor Designs, Inc.

POOL CARE

Best Arvidson Pools & Spas

LANDSCAPE DESIGN

One of the Best • Novotny Sales Inc. • Pool Werks

Best The Barn Nursery & Landscape Center

Voted 2021 Best

THANK YOU

Orthodontist In McHenry County Eight Years in a Row!

FOR VOTING US THE BEST DINING ON THE WATERFRONT & ONE OF THE BEST SEAFOOD!

Call today for a FREE Consultation

815.344.2840

SM-CL1910246

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

BEST OF THE FOX

28

www.ConlonThompsonOrtho.com 4104 W. Crystal Lake Road • McHenry, IL 60050

Thank You for Voting Us

THE BEST

Ice Cream/ Frozen Custard 6500 Northwest Hwy, Crystal Lake, IL 60014

SM-CL1910117

815-459-9117 • JULIEANNS.COM

(847) 658-5441 • portedward.com

AGAIN! THE BEST:

PET KENNEL THE BEST:

DOGGIE DAY CARE ONE OF THE BEST:

DOG TRAINERS

6810 BARNARD MILL RD. RINGWOOD, IL 815-728-0559 VISIT OUR WEBSITE:ALDENSKENNELS.COM SM-CL1909556

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

WON

BEST OF THE FOX

WE

29

We Won Again

4 Times a Charm!

Thank you to our customers who voted us One of the Best Caterers in McHenry County!

1237 N. GREEN ST. MCHENRY IL, 60050 815.322.2624 | THEBLACKORCHIDBOUTIQUE.COM PRINT AD COURTESY OF THE BLACK ORCHID BOUTIQUE

Let us cater your next event. We cater any size; from intimate parties to large gatherings. Let Chef Debbie create a personalized menu for you!

BOOK YOUR HOLIDAY PARTIES NOW! Get 15% off your order w/the mention of this ad if booked by 12/1/2021. Some blackout dates apply.

SM-CL1914420

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

BEST OF THE FOX

30

Contact us 847-778-9351 or MealsLikeMom.com

K-ADAMS FOTO

BEST OF THE FOX MCHENRY COUNTY PHOTOGRAPHER

KELSEY ADAMS | KADAMSFOTO.COM ADAMSKELSEYY@YAHOO.COM | 815.276.9272

We did it again! 12 Years Running!

Thank you for voting

Rock Solid Builders

“The Best” Deck Builders for the

12th year in a row!

DECKS • PERGOLAS • GAZEBOS • SCREEN ROOMS

SM-CL1910472

McHenry • Phone 815-363-7133 • Fax 815-363-9956

www.RockSolidBuildersInc.com “Largest Trex Builder in McHenry County”

Personal Services BARBER

Best • Beardsley’s Barber Shop • Joe’s Barber Shop

HAIR STYLIST

Best Steve Marshall, International Hairways

One of the Best • Cary Barbershop

One of the Best • Salon Cora • Aaron Gomez Skincare Studio

Best Paul Hyland Salon and Day Spa

NAIL SALON

DAY SPA

One of the Best • Salon Cora • Fashion Nails

One of the Best • Salon Cora • Lakeside Healing Arts Boutique

PRESCHOOL

Best Paul Hyland Salon and Day Spa

HAIR SALON

Best Chazio’s Boutique Salon

Best Trinity Oaks Christian Academy One of the Best • St. Barnabas Christian Preschool • Sage YMCA

Your Natural Source for Pet Food, and More!

Thank You! For Voting Us

“The Best”

Feed and Seed Store & One of the Best Pet Stores!

Thank you for your vote and continued support!

We are honored to be your trusted source for all your pet’s needs!

FREE gift with this ad & purchase

2440 Westward Dr., Unit C • Spring Grove • 815-675-2008

www.naturesfeed.net

SM-CL1907130

Thank you for Voting Us THE BEST Coffee Shop & Gift Shop 35 N. Williams Street Crystal Lake www.benedictseggs.com • 815-459-6001

like us on

SM-CL1908440

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

Best Paul Hyland Salon and Day Spa

One of the Best • Melanie, Chazio’s Boutique Salon • Charles, Chazio’s Boutique Salon

COSMETIC SKIN CARE

31 BEST OF THE FOX

One of the Best • International Hairways • Paul Hyland Salon and Day Spa

TATTOO SHOP

Best Area 51 Tattoo

One of the Best • Monster Ink Tattoo & Piercing Studio • Lost Lagoon Tattoo

PET STORE

Best Reeses Barkery & Pawtique One of the Best • Thomas’ Tails • Nature’s Feed

VETERINARIAN

Best Riverside Animal Clinic & Holistic Center One of the Best • Richmond Veterinary Clinic • Fox Valley Animal Hospital

What is the right pet for your family?

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

BEST OF THE FOX

32

Pet Care

ANIMAL SHELTER RESCUE

Best Helping Paws Animal Shelter

• Paws on Pingree

FEED AND SEED

Best Nature’s Feed

One of the Best • On Angels’ Wings - Pet Rescue & Resale Store • Young at Heart Senior Pet Adoptions

One of the Best • Blain’s Farm & Fleet • Thomas’ Tails

DOG TRAINER

Best Lavage Pet Spa

Best A+ Dog Training

One of the Best • Alden’s Kennels, Inc. • Happy Tails Ranch, Inc.

DOGGIE DAY CARE

Best Alden’s Kennels, Inc.

One of the Best • 4 Paws Pet Resort & Activity Center

PET GROOMER

One of the Best • Coco’s Pet Spa • Fur the Love of Dogs, Inc.

PET KENNEL

Best Alden’s Kennels, Inc. One of the Best • Happy Tails Ranch, Inc. • Paws on Pingree

Welcoming a pet into one’s life can be a rewarding experience. Pets promote compassion and discipline in their owners, and their companionship can be incredibly rewarding.

They also can be helpful tools for teaching children responsibility.

Pets require commitment, patience and financial investment. Potential pet owners also need to understand just what they’re getting into when they decide to bring a pet home.

Prospective pet owners should consider various factors to help them find the pet that suits their families.

Decide if you want a young pet or prefer an older animal, each of which has its advantages and disadvantages. While puppies and kittens can be attractive, they require extra time and care upon being welcomed into a home, and that can be rough if young children are in the home and not accustomed to pets and their unique behaviors.

In such instances, an older established animal may be a better fit, especially if you can devote the time to retraining the animal to your preferences. If you already have pets, you’ll need to find one that’s compatible with your existing animals.

The American Veterinary Medical Foundation says to carefully consider if you can provide the amount of

attention your pet will need.

Different species and breeds require various amounts of care. A ferret or hamster may be self-sufficient most of the day, while a boisterous puppy will not be. People who travel frequently or are out of the house most of the day will have to keep this in mind, too.

Affordability is another factor to consider. Assess whether you have the money necessary to offer shelter, recreation, medical care, food, exercise, and socialization for this particular pet. If you cannot budget for a pet that has a lot of needs, look for one that has relatively inexpensive care requirements, like a fish.

For more assistance choosing a pet, speak with a veterinarian or animal expert.

Puppy Kindergarten, Obedience, Rally, Conformation, Agility, Nosework & Behavior Modification

SM-CL1909795

When You Need It Done Right…

Hand It Off To Althoff HEATING | AIR CONDITIONING | PLUMBING | ELECTRICAL

“Phenomenal Service!!!

Backed by 60 years of doing things right…

Salesman was responsive and really cared about making us happy.

Service Technician was

49

Congratulations Cary Travel Express Best of the Fox “Travel Agency”

Unstoppable

Mexico

Where the sun rises over cerulean seas, and washes up on endless stretches of glistening sand.

Where old world charm meets modern sophistication, and ancient Mayan mysteries endure the test of time. Where the ocean beckons you to discover its underwater treasures, and gentle giants of the sea invite you to join them for a friendly swim. Where quaint cafes and shops line charming seaside malecóns, and moonlit strolls set the pace for an evening of passion. Where the sun sets majestically, romance fl ourishes, and the party never ends. This is Mexico.

Apple Vacations makes getting there easy and affordable, with Exclusive Nonstop Vacation and Scheduled Air Flight Packages. Once you arrive at your destination, a Resort Representative will meet you at the airport and guide you to your roundtrip hotel transfer. That’s the Apple Advantage!

top notch. I’ve found my forever home service company!”

RATED OUT OF FIVE STARS

-Roberto B.

Check out our 100’s of online reviews from your neighbors!

www.althoffind.com | (815) 219-4695 24/7 Emergency Service Available: (800) 225-2443

Cary Travel Express 9 Jandus Road, Cary IL

847-639-3300 • www.carytravelexpress.com

Save $50 on a New Apple Vacations Reservation* Call Cary Travel Express SM-CL1911214

some restrictions apply. Expires 12/21/2021

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

33 BEST OF THE FOX

Thank You for voting us the best!

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

BEST OF THE FOX

34

When to use credit and debit cards The decision of whether to use a debit card or a credit card can affect consumers’ credit ratings and make it easier or more difficult to manage one’s personal finances.

This decision often depends on the situation and understanding how

each of these cards works.

Since 2004, use of debit cards has exceeded credit cards for purchases made, reports the Federal Reserve. But debit cards might not always be the best choice in certain situations. Here are a few

ways to weigh the options of what payment method might be best.

Concerned about fraud? Credit Credit cards typically offer better fraud protection than debit cards. If unauthorized purchases are reported, the consumer’s maximum liability is $50, though many credit cards offer zero liability. Debit cards offer some protection, but it may take a little longer to get your money back, and loss responsibility amounts may be higher.

Don’t want to overspend? Debit Staying on budget and not overspending can be challenging when using credit cards. When cash leaves your hand, it is easy to keep track of what you have left. This isn’t as easy when using credit to make purchases. Some shoppers feel they are more likely to overspend when using credit than having money deducted from their bank accounts via debit cards.

Bank of America says recordkeeping is made simpler with debit cards and they are a great way to avoid spending more money than you have available.

Like incentives? Credit

Credit cards are still the best way to earn rewards on purchases made, and credit card companies recognize the rewards market is more competitive than ever before. From airline miles to cash back bonuses to points toward vacations, credit card companies offer a host of benefits that debit cards do not offer. But industry analysts at CreditCards.com say the industry is so competitive that many banks are trying to attract new customers and keep current ones happy, so debit card users may be able to earn some perks if they are not doing so already.

Shopping at small businesses?

Debit Business Insider says it costs small-business owners more to process credit transactions than transactions in which customers use a debit card or cash. By using debit cards when patronizing local businesses, consumers can help small business owners keep more money in their pockets.

Debit and credit cards are secure and convenient ways to shop.

One card may be better in certain instances than the other.

Professional Services

One of the Best • CorporateIT Department • ProFix Computer Repair

ACCOUNTANT

Best LMM & Associates, Inc. One of the Best • John W. Huff CPA • Porte Brown Accountants & Advisors

ATTORNEY

Best Gehris & Associates, LLC One of the Best • Owens Law, LLC • Law Offices of Thomas J. Popovich, P.C.

COMPUTER REPAIR

Best Echelon Computers, Inc.

EMPLOYMENT AGENCY

Best Express Employment Professionals One of the Best • Working World Staffing Services • Sustainable Staffing Inc.

FINANCIAL ADVISOR

Best Paradise Financial Partners One of the Best • Dunlap Financial Services • Farmers Insurance, Caterina Flower

FUNERAL SERVICE

Best Colonial Funeral Home & Crematory

Discover area entertainment at Shaw Media’s Best of the Fox website, Bestof theFox.com!

35

• 9’ First Floor Ceilings • 8’ Insulated Garage Doors • 5 Data/TV/Phone Locations • Centralized WIFI-Connection Point • Color Section on included features with full design center experience • 8 Ranch Models from 1567 SQFT to 2364 SQFT

• Hard Surface Entry From Garage • High Efficiency Direct vent Water Heater • Oversized Windows & Sliding Glass Patio Door** • Goodman Furnace and Air conditioning, Progress Light Fixtures Schlage Door Hardware, Mohawk and Shaw Carpeting, Moen Plumbing Fixtures, & Kohler Toilets

**This list of included features is only available in our Liberty Trails Community, included features may vary by community location.

Some included features may not be available or exceed the features of this list based on Model and Elevation Selected.

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

Gerstad Builders would like to thank its customers for their continued loyalty and support!

BEST OF THE FOX

LIBERTY TRAILS HAS NEW HOMES BUILT FOR YOU IN MCHENRY

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

BEST OF THE FOX

36

One of the Best • Davenport Family Funeral Home & Crematory • Justen Funeral Home & Crematory

INSURANCE AGENT

• Two Men and a Truck

Best Cris Bimbi, State Farm Insurance Agent

One of the Best • Ashley Klemm Photography • Image 1:27 Photography

One of the Best • Farmers Insurance, Caterina Flower • Goosehead Insurance, Mark Pils

Best Eby Graphics

LIMO/PRIVATE CAR/ TAXI SERVICE

PRINTING AND SIGNAGE

REAL ESTATE COMPANY

One of the Best • Sunshine Taxi • Tommy’s Premier Rides

Best Becky Kirchner, REALTOR, RE/MAX Plaza

MOVING COMPANY

One of the Best • Berkshire Hathaway Home Services, Starck Real Estate • The Bremer Team, Keller Williams Success Realty

Best University Movers

One of the Best • Dreiske Moving & Storage

THANK YOU

for voting us One of the Best Plumbers!

847-602-4101 libertyoakplumbing.com

VOTED O N E O F TH E B E S T

CBD Dispensaries in McHenry County!

Our success has come from our team truly having a passion for this industry, helping educate others, and we love hearing testimonials. CBD may be used for anxiety, pain, inflammation, better sleep, stress, and many other uses. We strive to provide craft quality products and manufacture our own flower, gummies, chocolate, pre-rolls, tinctures, cartridges, and more.

Shop CBD, Delta-8, CBG, and more. For connoisseurs by connoisseurs.

15% off your first order!

SM-CL1914810

favorite Shooting Range & Retail store

One of the Best • Minuteman Press • Fastsigns

Best McHenry Limo

SM-CL1913847

NORTHERN ILLINOIS’

PHOTOGRAPHER

Best K-Adams Foto

3932 M A I N S T. M CH EN RY 8 8 8 - 50 4 - 43 67 • S U G A R L E A F H E M P.CO M

New & Used Firearms

Tactical training house

Ammunition

Basic to Advanced firearm courses

Accessories Apparel Indoor Ranges Holster Draw Wednesday's Young Bucks Airsoft Range

Concealed Carry Certification & Renewals Memberships Special Events & Giveaways

131 E. Prairie Street Marengo IL 60152 815-596-1313 SM-CL1913030

www.d5rangesmarengo.com

Thank you for voting us One of the Best Insurance Agents!

224-357-7657 mark.pils@goosehead.com Cary, IL

MARK PILS

Retail: Food & Beverage BAKERY

One of the Best • Riverside Bake Shop • Konrad’s Bakery

BUTCHER

One of the Best • Binny’s Beverage Depot • Sam’s Liquors & Wine

WINE SHOP

One of the Best • Kalck’s Butcher Shop • Hub Market Butcher Shop & Delicatessen

CHOCOLATE/CANDY

Best Riverside Chocolate Factory One of the Best • Mellie’s Chocolate & Co. • Morkes Chocolates

FARMERS MARKET

Best Woodstock Farmer’s Market

Best Garfield’s Beverage Warehouse One of the Best • Binny’s Beverage Depot • Winestock

Thank you

Thanks to everyone who participated in this year’s Best of the Fox!

Celebrating 75 Years 1946 – 2021

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PorteBrown ACCOUNTANTS &

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ADVISORS

phone: 847-956-1040 web: www.portebrown.com

International Tax Services Peer Reviews Estate Planning & Trust Services Technology Consulting

Have You Seen Your Accountant Lately?

Porte Brown LLC provides comprehensive accounting services to individuals, businesses, and non-profits throughout Chicago and the suburban areas.

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

Best Butcher on the Block

LIQUOR STORE

Best Garfield’s Beverage Warehouse

37 BEST OF THE FOX

Best Blessed Little Kitchen

One of the Best • Farmers Market+ At The Dole • Tom’s Farm Market

38

hard to put down.

Thanks for voting us The Best Garden Center and One of the Best Landscape Designs!

Fall is for planting and decorating!

Showcase your home with cornstalks, pumpkins, gourds and Countryside Home Grown Mums!

Your

Beer.

Flower Shop, Nursery, and Garden Center

150 N. Main Street

SM-CL1912867

Crystal Lake, IL

5301 E. Terra Cotta Ave (Rt. 176), Crystal Lake SM-CL1909803

THANKS

for voting us the Best insurance agent!

Cris Bimbi

3425 W. Elm Street, McHenry, IL 60050 SM-CL1910494

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

BEST OF THE FOX

Easy to drink.

815-344-6444

bimbiinsurance.com

815.459.8130 • www.countrysideflowershop.com Hours: Open Daily 9-6 Sunday 9-5

39 BEST OF THE FOX Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

Many people enjoy opening their homes to friends and family. Entertaining can include everything from backyard barbecues to hosting formal dinner parties to providing overnight accommodations. While each of those things is different, hosts always want to ensure their guests are as comfortable as possible, regardless of which style of gathering they’re hosting. Hosts can use these seven strategies to help guests feel at home.

Consider the details. Does your guest like chocolate covered almonds? Does he or she prefer a certain genre of music? Take note of the specific details that make the guest tick, and then incorporate them into your entertaining plans.

Ready the space. Not everyone has a full-fledged guest room, but that doesn’t mean you can’t create a welcoming and private retreat for guests. Turn a home office into an overnight area with a pull-out couch or even a dressed-up air mattress with high-quality linens.

Anticipate guests’ needs. Think like a concierge when hosting at home. Have extra toothbrushes, antiperspirant, mouthwash, and

a phone charger at the ready. Is your guest a reader? Keep a few selections nearby or a book of puzzles so they can stay busy during their downtime.

Keep dietary needs in mind.

Guests have different palates and preferences, but some may have serious food allergies as well. Ask in advance if any guests have food allergies so you can ensure that any meals served are not just delicious, but also safe and healthy.

Keep pets at bay. Guests may not be as enamored with pets as their hosts. If you know a guest has an allergy or an aversion to pets, keep the animals away as much as possible.

Freshen the home. Take inventory of your home in its current state and make some minor improvements. Add some interior lighting, clean the bathrooms, create some extra seating, and freshen up with some flowers to make for a welcoming environment.

Prepare a special meal. Give guests a sensational meal they’re not likely to forget. This can mean indulging a little with sourced ingredients, home cooking and a good bottle of wine.

Comfort should always be a priority when readying a home for guests

Retail: Specialty

40

BRIDAL/FORMAL WEAR

BEST OF THE FOX

Best Bridal Boys by Complete Bridal One of the Best • Kathryn’s Bridal & Dress Shop • Gipper Prom

CBD/DISPENSARY

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

Best Cannabliss CBD Shop One of the Best • RISE Dispensaries • SugarLeaf Hemp

CLOTHING BOUTIQUE

Best Wear Did U Get That

One of the Best • Lulu’s Wiggin Out • Black Orchid Boutique

FLORIST

Best Locker’s Flowers

SM-CL1910331

815-388-8926

GIFT SHOP

Best Taste of Benedicts & More One of the Best • Fiddlestiks • Out of the Box

JEWELRY STORE

Best Nelson’s Jewelry

One of the Best • Dalzell Jewelers • Steffan’s Jewelers

MUSIC STORE

Best Siren Records McHenry One of the Best • Rocco Z Music • Piano Trends Music Company

Thank You From our Family to Yours for voting us One of the Best Flooring Stores!

Thank you for voting us One of the Best Yoga Studios!

123 S. Main St, Algonquin, 60102 meltpilates.com

One of the Best • Wildrose Floral Design • Twisted Stem Floral

2020 S. Eastwood Dr. (Rt.47) • Woodstock, IL SM-CL1909616

815-334-5985

41 BEST OF THE FOX

The magic of Halloween is often seen on the costumed faces of kids who anxiously await their chance to dress up and go trick-or-treating every year. However, figures from the National Retail Federation suggest that adults also love this holiday that traces its origins back to the Celtic festival of Samhain.

During the festival of Samhain, which historians have noted was mentioned in Old Irish literature that dates from the 10th century onward, people would engage in various activities and rituals, including wearing costumes. These activities were intended to ward off ghosts. More than a millenium later, costumes have not lost their appeal.

Data from the NRF indicates that Americans spent

$8 billion on Halloween in 2020.

That marks a dropoff from the year prior, but that decrease can at least be partially credited to the COVID-19 pandemic, which forced many people to cancel Halloween celebrations in 2020. In fact, in 2020 the average Halloween celebrant spent roughly $92 on the holiday, which is more than in any year prior.

The NRF reports that costumes tend to be the most costly Halloween-related expense, and the total dollars spent and number of celebrants suggests that a holiday often associated with children has long since become a holiday for kids of all ages.

Halloween fast facts and figures • The U.S. Census Bureau indicates that there are 41.1 million potential trick-ortreaters aged 5 to 14.

• Ninety-five percent of people surveyed by the NRF planned to purchase candy for Halloween. The next most popular purchase is decorations (74 percent).

• Forty-five percent of respondents planned to carve a pumpkin for Halloween, says the NRF. • The top-ranked costumes for children in 2018 were princess and superhero.

Adults planning to dress up were more likely to go as a witch or a vampire.

• Pet costumes remain incredibly popular. Prosper Insights, a marketing and analytics company, states that 31.2 million Americans plan to dress up their pets - with millennials being the largest demographic to do so.

• There are potentially 120 million stops for trick-ortreaters to visit in the US.

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

BE SURE TO SHOP LOCALLY THIS FALL AND HALLOWEEN! MCH ENRY COUNTY HAS MAN Y GREAT GIFT SHOPS, BAKERI ES, CANDY SHOPS AND MORE!

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

BEST OF THE FOX

42

RESALE SHOP

STORE FOR KIDS

Best Best Friend’s Consignment

Best Color Me Mine

One of the Best • On Angels’ Wings - Pet Rescue & Resale Store • Sparrow’s Nest Thrift Store

One of the Best • Marvin’s Toy Store • Lizzy Lou Boutique

SHOE STORE

VINTAGE CLOTHING AND FURNITURE

Best Heisler’s Bootery

Best Sparrow’s Nest Thrift Store

One of the Best • Achieve Footwear • The Running Depot

One of the Best • A New Interiors Anew • Best Friend’s Consignment

SPECIALTY ITEM SHOP

WEDDING CAKE

Best The Olive Tap

Best Blessed Little Kitchen

One of the Best • Fiddlestiks • Kitchen Outfitters

One of the Best • Konrad’s Bakery • The Sugar Circle

Fun Fact

The Best of the Fox contest is comprised of 13 main categories and 152 sub-categories!

IT’S NOT BAR FOOD! THANK YOU FOR VOTING FOR US!

Best

BBQ Ribs • Chicken Wings • Sports Bar

One of the best

Burger • Fish Fry • Bloody Mary Kids • Menu • Outdoor/Patio Dining Tavern/Pub • Neighborhood Bar

GOALLINE SPORTS BAR & GRILL

85 Brink Street | Crystal Lake | 815-893-0231 www.goallinesportsgrill.com

New Patients

with completion of a comprehensive exam and necessary X-rays S eServing r v i n g y o you u S iSince n c e 1 9 1958 58

Find us at Find us at 1811 W. Rte. 120 1811 W. Rte. 120 McHenry, IL

McHenry, IL Or call: 815-385-4640 Or call: 815-385-4640 adamsautobody.com

adamsautobody.com

Adams, AtAt Adams, customer satisfaction customer satisfaction isis Job #1#1 Job

Call Today!

847-516-1100

Check out our website at carydentalassociates.com and follow us on Facebook and Instagram.

Proudly serving the Cary and Crystal Lake area for over 33 years!

We done Weget getit it done hassle free hassle free and andtop topquality quality And we we are And areso sograteful grateful to all of our customers to all of our customers for choosing Adams! for choosing Adams!

SM-CL1910480

ASSOCIATES LLC

More of what you need for a beautiful, healthy smile

Richmond Veterinary Clinic Medicine • Surgery • Acupuncture • Laster Therapy

Thank You The doctors and staff at RVC wish to thank everyone For Voting Us One of the Best Veterinary Clinics in McHenry County!!!!

SM-CL1908730

Office Hours By Appointment

9202 Main Street, Richmond, IL 60071

Phone: (815) 678-4700 Fax: (815) 678-7202 www.rvetclinic.com

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

Mention this ad and receive a free bleaching kit

43 BEST OF THE FOX

Come see why our office was voted THE BEST 5 years in a row!

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

BEST OF THE FOX

44

4660 W. Algonquin Road, Lake in the Hills

www. butcherontheblock. com

847-669-6679

We offer CURBSIDE and DELIVERY

T hank you to all of our customers who voted us:

BEST BUTCHER BEST DELI SUB SHOPS in McHenry County!

We appreciate all your support throughout the years!

Grass Fed Beef All Natural, Injection Free Meats Fresh Seafood Available Boar’s Head Lunchmeats & Cheeses Sandwiches Made To Order Beer & Wine Party Trays / Meat Packages

DANCE STUDIO INSTRUCTION

45

Best Royal Oak Farm Orchard

Best Engage Dance Academy, Inc.

One of the Best • All Seasons Orchard • Stade’s Farm & Market

One of the Best • Mar Ray Dance Studio • Above the Barre Dance Academy

BEST OF THE FOX

Sports & Recreation APPLE ORCHARD

GYMNASTICS/CHEER

BIKE SHOP

One of the Best • The Bike Haven • Wheel Werks Bikes

One of the Best • Huntley Cheer Association • Cary Gymnastics Center

BOWLING

Best Raymond’s Bowl & Entertainment Center One of the Best • Metro Bowl • Kingston Lanes Bowling and Sports Lounge

Thank You

Quality Tire Service 2420 Hiller Ridge Johnsburg, IL

(815) 344-2573

www.QualityTireServiceJohnsburg.com

Exemplary Customer Service 60+ yrs of Experience

for voting us One of the Best Travel Agencies

CRYSTAL LAKE

TRAVEL

“Vacation Headquarters Since 1960” SM-CL1910237

• IL Emissions Testing Facility • Maintenance Service & Repairs • XL Fleet Vehicle Service • Tires (new & used) • Wheels

From 1959 til today, Quality Period!

It’s our commitment to you!

13 Crystal Lake Plaza Crystal Lake, IL

815.459.2500

Family owned & operated, superior customer service

cltravelagency.com

SM-CL1911313

HIKING & RUNNING TRAIL/ PATH

Best Moraine Hills State Park

One of the Best • Glacial Park Conservation Area • Veteran Acres Park

THANK YOU! for Voting Us the

BEST AUTO MECHANIC and the

BEST TIRE STORE!

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

Best Crystal Lake Gymnastics Training Center

Best Lucky Brake Bicycles

46

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

BEST OF THE FOX

Fun Fact

In the first few years of the Best of the Fox Readers’ Choice Awards, the ballot was only in the newspaper. Those who voted, mailed in their ballots, and staff at the Northwest Herald had to count votes by hand!

THANK YOU MCHENRY COUNTY! Applying for jobs and hiring employees can be difficult and time consuming. No matter the position; commercial, administrative, skilled trades or professional, Express Employment Professionals is your one-stop shop for employment.

Experience the Express Difference: Call, come in, or go online today!

(815) 788-8556 • ExpressHires.com Express Employment Professionals 580 E Terra Cotta Avenue, Crystal Lake, IL 60014 SM-CL1915928

Thank you McHenry County for Voting Us “One of the Best” Orthodontists!

Stop in for your FREE Consultation today to see why we were chosen “One of the Best.”

Hoffman

From the staff, nursing and administration of Valley Hi,

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US ONE OF THE BEST Memory Care and ONE OF THE BEST Senior Living Facilities in McHenry County!

We can care for your loved one with a range of services to include: long-term placement, short-term rehabilitation programs and Hospice programing.

2406 Hartland Road, Woodstock

SM-CL1908753

815-338-0312

Orthodontics 521 Devonshire Lane Crystal Lake, IL 60014

(815) 459-3434 SM-CL1911575

www.hoffmanorthodontics.com

THANK YOU

for all your support for the last 10 years and continuing to vote for us.

We look forward to serving you for many more!

The Best Italian Restaurant!

3315 Pearl street McHenry IL 815-900-2220 SM-CL1911196

D A B A F F O N E C U C I N A I TA L I A N A . C O M

Clean Bee is honored to be voted the BEST CARPET CLEANING COMPANY, making this our 15th consecutive award!

Carpet

Fine Carpet/Rugs Upholstery

Tile & Grout

Leather

Wood

• The safest most effective cleaning and protection available.

• Fair Square Pricing ™ • Give us the size, we give you the price. No hidden charges.

• 100% Satisfaction Guarantee We follow up with a call to every customer.

• Specialized treatment of pet odors and stains.

YOUR NEXT SERVICE 11% OFF CLEANING

815.578.0233

Valid for any service of $199 or more. Cannot be combined with any other offer.

Expires December 31, 2021. Must present coupon at time of service.

SM-CL1911368

The Cleaning Process offers the following services:

• Cleaning • Appraisals • Repairs • Custom Rug Pads • Guaranteed Pet Odor Removal Every rug is unique, after thorough inspection and testing, we will match one of our 8 methods of cleaning to best suit your rug.

20% OFF YOUR NEXT CLEANING SERVICE when you drop off and pick up at the Cleaning Studio

Valid for any service of $125.00 or more. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Expires December 31, 2021. Must present couon at time of service.

FREE

PICK UP AND DELIVERY FOR AREA RUGS

Valid for any service of $125.00 or more. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Expires December 31, 2021. Must present couon at time of service.

FREE basic pick up and delivery limited to McHenry and Lake County.

815.893.8155

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

Thank you for voting us one of the best wedding venues in 2021!

47 BEST OF THE FOX

111 North Main Street Crystal Lake, IL 815-893-6149

Fun Ways to Get Fit

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

BEST OF THE FOX

48

Exercise benefits both the mind and body. Study after study indicates how physical activity can reduce the propensity for illness, boost mood, lower stress levels, and much more. Still, certain people find it difficult to muster the motivation to get up and move.

Lack of time and inspiration may be to blame for disinterest in exercise. Boredom with routine and being unaware of alternative fitness regimens also may be contributing factors. Increasing the fun associated with workouts could lead to greater success in or outside of the gym.

1. Do what you enjoy

Wasting time on activities that you don’t enjoy may cause you to throw in the towel prematurely. Don’t base fitness choices around what worked for others; find things that work for you.

2. Tweak your playlist

Music can improve performance during a workout and may actually take your mind off of strenuous or repetitive activity. Tunes also can be coordinated to the workout. Songs that feature lyrics such as run, punch, push, or groove can reinforce movements in the routine, offers the National Academy of Sports Medicine. Also, tailor songs to coordinate to the beats per minute of different activities. Strength activities and endurance activities can feature songs with higher BPMs.

3. Exercise with friends or a group

Having other people around can make workouts more enjoyable, and that interaction may spur competition that can make you more inclined to stay the course. People who were in the competitive groups in a study of 800 students at the University of Pennsylvania went to 90 percent more classes than those who exercised independently or were not competitive.

4. Head outdoors

You may be more inclined to workout if you do so outside. Activities such as hiking, snowshoeing, swimming, and cycling on natural courses can be inspiring and burn calories.

5. Try sports or another activity

Exercise regimens do not have to include running on a treadmill or lifting weights.

All types of activities can work, and some may be more enjoyable to you than traditional exercises. Everything from martial arts to dance classes to volleyball can offer cardiovascular and muscle-building benefits in a fun atmosphere.

29 N. Williams St., Downtown Crystal Lake, IL

49

THANKS

BEST OF THE FOX

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US THE BEST BARBER SHOP!

for voting us Best of the Fox!

815.459.0620 joesbarber.com M, T, Th, F 8am-5pm Sat 7:30am-3pm

233 Trinity Oaks Way, Cary, IL 60013 | www.trinity-oaks.org

SM-CL1908528

TRINITY OAKS CHRISTIAN ACADEMY LEARNING TODAY … LEADING TOMORROW!

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

SM-CL1909607

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

BEST OF THE FOX

50

MARTIAL ARTS

Best New Masters Martial Arts One of the Best • Z’s Martial Arts Academy • Curran Jiu-Jitsu Academy

PARK/OUTDOOR

Best Emricson Park

One of the Best • Veteran Acres Park • Deicke Park

PUBLIC GOLF COURSE

Best Turnberry Golf Club

One of the Best • On Target Range & Tactical Training Center D5 Ranges Marengo

SWIM LESSONS

Best Sage YMCA

One of the Best • Dolphin Swim Club • Bear Paddle Swim School

VIDEO GAMING

Best Dino’s Pizza & Pasta

Check out our new

HEALTHY PET LIFESTYLE CAMPUS

THANK YOU

One of the Best • GiGi’s Place • Offsides Sports Bar & Grill

for voting us the BEST Veterinarian in McHenry County

One of the Best • Boone Creek Golf Club • RedTail Golf Club

SHOOTING RANGE

Best Second Amendment Sports

112 Front st, McHenry IL 60050

815-344-7716

Tracks

Thank You

Bar & Grill

FOR VOTING US

THE BEST CBD/ DISPENSERY IN MCHENRY COUNTY!

SM-CL1914798

818 Front Street Unit A • McHenry IL 60050

815-687-2608

Thank you McHenry County for voting us...

THE BEST BURGER &

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US THE BEST HARDWARE STORE AND ONE OF THE BEST PAINT STORES IN McHENRY COUNTY! WE APPRECIATE YOUR BUSINESS!

ONE OF THE BEST FISH FRY

McHENRY

847-639-6064 108 W. Main Street ~ Cary TheCaryTracks.com

4520 West Crystal Lake Road (Next to the McHenry Post Office) 815-385-3660 PROUDLY SERVING OUR COMMUNITY SM-CL1908460

riversideanimalclinic.net

SM-CL1908363

51

20 YEARS IN A ROW

We may never have been the largest.....but we have always been completely honest.

We sincerely appreciate your business Whether cleaning or replacing... call the name you have trusted for almost 50 years!

370 E. Prairie Street Suite 3 Crystal Lake, IL 60014

815-459-0083

www.howellsflooringandmore.com Family owned and operated since 1972

New Flooring Sales & Installation Carpet Cleaning • Area Rugs • Upholstery • Tile & Grout

And Storage

We would like to thank all of McHenry County for voting us the

BEST MOVING COMPANY FOR 2021!

We appreciate all of our supporters over the past 33 plus years!

www.universitymoversil.com 755 Ridgeview Dr. McHenry, IL. • 779-444-2387

Sinc Si nce nc e 19 1987 87 Since IL.C.C. MC 88419 US DOT 3464984

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

RandJPainting.com 815-444-6133

BEST OF THE FOX

Thank You!

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

BEST OF THE FOX

52

for voting us Thank you for voting us

One of the Best Store for Kids!

17 E. Crystal Lake Ave. | 60014 Crystal Lake | www.lizzyloushop.com SM-CL1911283

847-565-9421

THANK YOU to our students and the community for voting New Masters Martial Arts as the BEST Martial Arts school in McHenry County!

Vi us for a FREE trial class!

Visit Family-Friendly Training with Family Discounts Available!

Woodstock Square Mall Lower Level 110 S. Johnson St. www.NewMastersMartialArts.com 815-527-5160 SM-CL1913309

������� � ����������

There when you need us

For the best in rehab therapy & senior care come to Fair Oaks Thank you NW Herald Readers for voting us one of the best 4 years running! ٠ Inpatient & outpatient rehab ٠ Physical, speech & occupational therapies ٠ Weekly visits from physiatrist, wound care nurse & cardiologist ٠ Nurse practitioner 5 days a week ٠ Skilled nursing care

Come in and feel the difference. Schedule a tour today!

815.455.0550 FairOaksHealthCare.org 471 W Terra Cotta Ave in Crystal Lake

Inpatient & outpatient rehab therapy is usually covered by Medicare. Call us to find out more.

ADVERTISER

ADVERTISER...................................................................................................PAGE Kenny’s Floor Covering Inc.............................................................................19 La Pizza Via.......................................................................................................14 Liberty Oak Plumbing LLC..............................................................................36 Lizzy Lou Boutique..........................................................................................52 LMM & Associates, Inc....................................................................................17 Locker’s Flowers...............................................................................................55 Loud Brothers...................................................................................................15 McHenry Area Chamber of Commerce.........................................................24 McHenry County Valley Hi Nursing Home...................................................46 McHenry Limo.................................................................................................15 Meals Like Moms.............................................................................................30 Melt Pilates & Yoga...........................................................................................40 Monster Ink Tattoo & Piercing Studio............................................................14 Murphy’s Flooring............................................................................................40 Natural Therapy Wellness Center...................................................................27 Nature’s Cornucopia........................................................................................24 Nature’s Feed....................................................................................................31 New Masters Martial Arts................................................................................52 Northtown Auto Service and Tire Center......................................................10 On Target Range & Tactical Training Center..................................................24 Ortmann’s Red Iron Tavern...............................................................................8 Paradise Financial Partners............................................................................21 Plum Garden.......................................................................................................5 Pool Werks.........................................................................................................14 Port Edward Restaurant..................................................................................28 Porte Brown Accountants & Advisors............................................................37 PWC Chiropractic............................................................................................54 Quality Tire Service..........................................................................................45 R&J Painting LLC..............................................................................................51 R&K Auto Body.................................................................................................16 Raue Center For The Arts................................................................................49 Reeses Barkery & Pawtique.............................................................................27 Richmond Veterinary Clinic............................................................................43 RISE Dispensaries............................................................................................55 Riverside Animal Clinic & Holistic Center.....................................................50 Rock Solid Builders, Inc...................................................................................30 Rusty Nail Saloon.............................................................................................26 Salon Cora.........................................................................................................14 Scholl Construction Company.......................................................................19 Shaw Local News Network App......................................................................54 Shaw Local News Network/Hub Arkush.......................................................42 Shaw Local News Network/Sean Hammond................................................24 Siren Records McHenry...................................................................................17 Smith’s Central Wedding & Events..................................................................47 StarvedRockCountry.com...............................................................................28 Steinhafels........................................................................................................17 SugarLeaf Hemp...............................................................................................36 Taste of Benedicts & More...............................................................................31 That’s Amore Pizza...........................................................................................55 The Dole..............................................................................................................8 The First Hundred Miles.................................................................................33 Tony’s Cafe..........................................................................................................9 Tracks Bar & Grill..............................................................................................50 Trinity Oaks Christian Academy.....................................................................49 University Movers............................................................................................51 UpRooted..........................................................................................................27 Verlo Mattress...................................................................................................56 Wear Did U Get That........................................................................................27 Well-Rooted Pediatrics....................................................................................21 White Oak Interiors..........................................................................................15

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

PAGE

31 North Banquets & Catering........................................................................11 A+ Dog Training................................................................................................33 Ace Hardware, McHenry.................................................................................50 Adams Auto Body and Service Center...........................................................43 After The Fox.....................................................................................................20 Alden’s Kennels, Inc.........................................................................................29 Althoff Industries, Inc......................................................................................33 Area 51 Tattoo...................................................................................................16 Arvidson Pools & Spas.....................................................................................21 Becky Kirchner, REALTOR, RE/MAX Plaza....................................................12 Benedict’s La Strata............................................................................................6 Black Diamond Plumbing & Mechanical Inc................................................52 Black Orchid Boutique....................................................................................30 Blessed Little Kitchen......................................................................................12 Butcher on the Block.......................................................................................44 C&A Auto Body.................................................................................................12 Cannablis CBD Shop.......................................................................................50 Cary Dental Associates LLC............................................................................43 Cary Travel Express..........................................................................................33 Chazio’s Boutique Salon..................................................................................20 Chop Suey Hut.................................................................................................46 Clarendale of Algonquin.................................................................................22 Clean Bee Flooring & Upholstery Care..........................................................47 Color Me Mine....................................................................................................8 Conlon & Thompson Orthodonticts..............................................................28 Countryside Flower Shop, Nursery and Garden Center..............................38 Cris Bimbi, State Farm Insurance Agent........................................................38 Crystal Lake Brewing.......................................................................................38 Crystal Lake Gymnastics Training Center.......................................................8 Crystal Lake Travel...........................................................................................45 CYT Chicago.....................................................................................................49 D5 Ranges Marengo.........................................................................................36 da Baffone Cucina Italiana..............................................................................47 Diamond Bath..................................................................................................19 Dynico Roofing................................................................................................12 Echelon Computers, Inc..................................................................................54 El Gordo Mexican Restaurant.........................................................................13 Express Employment Professionals...............................................................46 Fair Oaks Health Care Center.........................................................................52 Farmers Insurance, Caterina Flower..............................................................15 Fast Eddie’s Full Service Car Wash & Detail Center........................................3 Forever Gardens Perennial..............................................................................46 Fox Valley Animal Hospital................................................................................4 Garfield’s Beverage Warehouse.......................................................................20 Gehris & Associates, LLC.................................................................................19 Gerstad Builders...............................................................................................35 Goal Line Sports Bar & Grill............................................................................42 Goosehead Insurance, Mark Pils....................................................................36 Gulgren Appliance...........................................................................................24 Happy Hour Yoga.............................................................................................17 Helping Paws Animal Shelter..........................................................................54 Hidden Pearl Coffee.........................................................................................55 Hoffman Orthodontics....................................................................................46 Howell’s Flooring and More............................................................................51 Jameson’s Charhouse.......................................................................................54 JD Auto Specialists.............................................................................................2 Jexals Wing-Zeria................................................................................................7 Joe’s Barber Shop..............................................................................................49 Julie Ann’s Frozen Custard...............................................................................28 K-Adams Foto...................................................................................................30

53 BEST OF THE FOX

Index of Advertisers

Be sure to visit the advertisers below the next time you are looking for goods and services!

54

Thank you for voting Helping Paws

BEST OF THE FOX

THE BEST ANIMAL SHELTER/RESCUE

“Our dedicated staff and volunteers strive to go above and beyond for our four-legged friends.”

Fox Valley

Helping Paws

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

Animal Welfare Association Founded in 1969

Second Chances Start Here

www.helpingpaws.net

Phone: (815) 338-4400

2500 Harding Ln., Woodstock, IL

The Best Computer Repair in McHenry County!

Thanks for Voting for us again!

C O M P U T E

S ,

The Best n i e s u o h k a e St unty o C y r n e H c M

I N C

7510 Virginia Rd., Crystal Lake, IL 60014

815-455-6200

www.echeloncomputers.net • Computer Service • Used Computers • Great Customer Service

SAVE 25%

on labor on all service (excludes data recovery services) SM-CL1909879

Crystal Lake

Bloomingdale

Woodridge

Vernon Hills

5016 Northwest Hwy. (815) 459-4800

94 Stratford Dr. (630) 671-9090

1001 W.75th St. (630) 910-9700

151 E. Town Line Rd. (224) 513-5642

Open for Lunch & Dinner

Open for Dinner 7 days Open for Lunch on Sunday

Open for Dinner Only

Open for Lunch & Dinner

Mt. Prospect

Skokie

Huntley

1702 W. Algonquin Rd. (847) 956-1500

9525 Skokie Blvd.

(847) 673-9700

12860 Del Webb Blvd.

(847) 515-7675

Open for Lunch & Dinner

Expires September 30, 202 SM-CL1911587

Open for Dinner Only Monday-Friday Open for Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Saturday & Sunday

www.jamesons-charhouse.com

Open for Lunch & Dinner

55 BEST OF THE FOX

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US

THE BEST FLORIST IN MCHENRY COUNTY FOR 2021!

SM-CL1914303

THANK YOU FOR VOTING US ONE OF THE BEST PIZZAS! MADE

PTO ERFECTLY ORDER SM-CL1911223

Thank You for Voting for US

815.444.7200 105 N Main St Crystal Lake, IL 60014

1250 N. Green Street McHenry, IL

815-341-0987 hiddenpearlcoffee.com

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

Walk in & order your holiday & party needs Phone 815-385-2300 1213 N 3rd Street 800-643-5443 McHenry, IL 60050 www.lockersflower.com ~ M-F 9-5. SAT 9-4. SUN 9-1

Northwest Herald / NWHerald.com • Saturday, September 11, 2021

BEST OF THE FOX

56

MORE BED

FOR YOUR

BUCK

Cut Out the MIDDLEMAN and SAVE!!

Verlo takes pride in building your mattress in our local mattress factory, located right in our store. This CUTS OUT THE MIDDLEMAN to keep prices affordable.

v1 FIRM – No Flip

v3 PLUSH – No Flip

v5 FIRM – No Flip

v7 PILLOWTOP – No Flip

QUEEN SET starting at

QUEEN SET starting at

QUEEN SET starting at

QUEEN SET starting at

599

$

449 $ 549 $ 799

$

TWIN SET FULL SET KING SET

SAVE

UP TO

150

$

OFF v5 Set Purchase*

899

$

649 $ 799 $ 1149 $

TWIN SET

899 $ 1149 $ 1599 $

FULL SET KING SET

SAVE

UP TO

200

$

1249

$

OFF v7 Set Purchase*

1299 1699 $ 2299 $

TWIN SET

$

FULL SET KING SET

SAVE

UP TO

250

$

1799

$

OFF v9 Set Purchase*

SAVE

TWIN SET FULL SET KING SET

UP TO

300

$

OFF v11 Set Purchase*

*On set purchase with factory select covers. Not applicable on previous purchases. One coupon per set purchase. See store for details.

ADJUSTABLE BEDS ON SALE NOW! $ Adjustable Bed Bases*

Twin XL Starting @

• Great for watching TV or reading in bed • Reduces snoring & acid reflux effects • Alleviates lower back, knee & leg pain • Aids in circulation *with Verlo Mattress purchase. Does not apply to previous purchases. See store for details.

2462 Hwy 120 262.249.0420

CRYSTAL LAKE

5150 North West Hwy 815.455.2570

Since we build your mattress in our local factory, we can easily adjust it for you throughout the years. A little softer here...a little firmer there. With Verlo’s Lifetime Comfort Guarantee, you can just get comfortable – and stay comfortable.

399

Relieve pressure by raising your head or feet.

Enjoy a relaxing massage at the touch of a button with Verlo’s adjustable beds.

LAKE GENEVA

Only Verlo guarantees you’ll be comfortable for the lifetime of your mattress.

McHENRY

3710 West Elm St. 815.578.8375

Thank You

for continuously voting us

One Best OF THE

MATTRESS STORES

verlo.com 800.224.VERLO