Fox Valley Magazine - August 2017

AUGUST 2017

Exploring Life in the Fox

ROWENA ZIMMERS

President & Founder ALE Solutions

“ ...I love a challenge”.

Elburn Days Naperville Jaycees Last Fling Summer & Early Fall in Galena Jo Daviess County

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What’s inside...

Dining & Cuisine

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Set Yourself Up for a Successful Week!

– Sara Snelling

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8

Featured Dishes

Must try appetizers, entrees, desserts or cocktails available at local Fox Valley restaurants.

Events

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12

Elburn Days

14 16

Elgin’s Art & Soul on the Fox

18

41st Annual Fox Valley Folk Music & Storytelling Festival

22

Smallville Superfest

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Naperville Last Fling - Soul Asylym & Bare Nake Ladies

24 26

Geneva Concours d’Elegance

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Maple Park Fun Fest

Alley Art Festival

15th Annual Naperville Wine Festival

Feature

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Rowena Zimmers

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events continued...

32 34

Events at Naper Settlement

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Bug Fest

Random Acts Matter Event

Arts & Entertainment

24

44- Arts and Entertainment 54 around the Fox Valley Travel

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Summer & Early Fall in Galena

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6 Tips to Make the Most of Your Visit to the Zoo

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Out & About

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Faces and places from around The Fox

Fox Valley Magazine

Editor - Paul Stukel, pstukel@nexxuspublishing.com Advertising - Kevin Ketchum, kketchum@nexxuspublishing.com, 800-564-8024 x107 Production - dperry@nexxuspublishing.com NEXXUS Publishing, 524 W. State St., Suite E, Geneva, IL 60134, 800-564-8024

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dining & cuisine

Sara Snelling is an innovative, forward-thinking nutritionist with a food science, food service and food safety background. While earning her bachelor of science in nutrition and dietetics at Northern Illinois University, she did a variety of volunteer work within her community. This includes experience with teaching culinary classes, medical nutrition therapy instruction, public speaking and data analysis and research in nutrition across many demographics.

Sara is a regular contributor to foxvalleymagazine.com.

Set Yourself Up for a Successful Week!

REALISTIC WAYS TO MAINTAIN STAMINA THROUGH A BUSY WEEK

BY SARA SNELLING

The Foundation

Schedule this like you would a workout. It’s just as important. When we think about being healthy, exercise and diet should both come to mind, and both need to be a commitment you make to yourself. Schedule a few hours a week for food shopping and prep.

Helpful tip: Change your language.

No more “I don’t have time”. Instead say “It’s not priority. This bring a sense of accountability to the table. You have to be honest with yourself that it IS in fact a choice. You choose how you spend your time. Pay now, feel good later.

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The Basics Convenience Feel like stopping for a meal will be more convenient? Unlikely. Taking time and attention away from the momentum of a busy day to hunt down the next meal, all the while feeling guilty about your choices doesn’t seem like a win.

The Price Feel like spending a few hours a week prepping and planning is a lot of time and energy? What’s the cost of NOT doing it?? In terms of health and money, it can be pretty expensive.

Create Habit The more you do it, the more energy and inspiration you’ll have, to do it!!

Rinse, repeat!

The Staples Keep staples stocked at all times.

My Staples; oils, Grains, proteins, nuts and seeds, stock and spices. Yours might be different. Note common elements in your favorite recipes and keep them stocked.

The Goods Once you have your staples, add variety of produce and you’re set! Buy what you like and what looks good, what’s in season, etc. And listen to your body- it often craves the foods you need to round out your nutrients. And while you’re at it- try 1 new thing every two weeks at least. Keep those nutrients varied so you’re covering your vitamins and minerals.

Be Resourceful Use your resources & get organized! Once you have the foods you like, use a myriad of social

media sites to organize and find easy recipes to make in a pinch. This takes a lot of the planning and arduous admin work out of it. Who has the time for that?? It’s easier than you think!

Sub-scribe to a few foodie sites for fresh ideas/ inspiration. My Facebook page and Instagram always have fresh new ideas!

Ready-to-Go Meals Portion things off when you cook them. Make a dish and portion them off right away into small-er to-go containers. You’re much more likely to grab this on your way out if you take foxvalleymagazine.com

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FOX VALLEY MAGAZINE / August 2017

this small step. One step closer to a healthy lunch!

Helpful Tip: Pack 2 snacks for the day.

If you eat small meals throughout the day you avoid overeating at lunch or dinner, as well as that afternoon slump that can be such a bummer. As long as you’re packing healthy choices. Keep it simple! Try almond butter in celery, or diced apples and cucumber and bell pepper. This will also help you avoid the vending machine- this gets expensive!

A Clear Solution Use glass storage! You can see your food so you’re less likely to let your food go bad. You can also put the glass in the microwave and oven (make sure to get microwave and oven-safe con-tainers). And it’s easier to clean with less residue. And more environmentally friendly!! And no chemicals in your food!

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dining & cuisine

Featured Dishes Must try appetizers, entrees, desserts or cocktails available at local Fox Valley restaurants.

New Drink Menu

This All Chocolate Kitchen Volcano Cookie, will blvvow your mind and taste buds with every warm delicious bite.

Our sophisticated restaurant PRIMO nestled inside the famed All Chocolate Kitchen, announce the addition of a drink menu featuring a variety of cocktails for our guests to enjoy.

We invite you to experience the PRIMO difference for yourself, and try this signature beauty tonight!

All Chocolate Kitchen Store 33 S 3rd St Geneva, IL 60134 1-630-232-2395

All Chocolate Kitchen Store’s PRIMO 29 S. 3rd Street Geneva, IL 60134 1-630-232-2280

Volcano Cookie

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Bistro du Bouchard’s Crab Salad Stack

A lemon and herbed all crab salad with cucumber, advocado, mango, watermelon, red onion and couscous.

Bistro du Bouchard 127-129 S Washington Street Naperville, IL 60540 1-630-355-5720

EPH Bacon and Egger Burger Burger with applewood smoked bacon and a soft-fried egg. It is served on a toasted dumpling bun with sriracha mayo and your choice of sides” Elgin Public House 219 E. Chicago St. Elgin, IL 60120 1-847-468-8810

Smokin Bulleit Manhattan One of our most popular cocktails….Bulleit bourbon, sweet vermouth, angostura bitters and black cherries in a smoked glass.

McNally’s Irish Pub 109 W. Main Street St. Charles, IL 60174 1-630-513-6300

Double Cheddar Burger Duck fat brioche fun. Aged white cheddar, bread & butter pickles, wes’ steak sauce, Applewood smoked bacon and herbed garlic frittes.

Niche 14 S. 3rd Street Geneva, IL 60134 1-630-262-1000

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Basil Crusted Salmon

Salmon with sauteed spinach, tomato confit, risotto, Milanese and balsamic glaze.

ROX City Grill 100 Main St. St Charles, IL 60174 1-630-845-5800

Mojito

Mojito ade with fresh mint and Flor de Cana Rum

The Sure Thing

$44 Prix Fixe Menu - choose a soup or salad, an entrĂŠe and a dessert from a variety of tantalizing favorites. Everyone loves a sure thing.

The Grandstander 507 S. 3rd Street Geneva, IL 60134 1-331-248-0919

Sullivan’s Steakhouse 244 S. Main St. Naperville, IL 60540 1-630-305-0230

Blueberry BBQ Pork Steak

Featured on the tasting menu, Blueberry BBQ Pork Steak served with bacon cornbread.

The Finery & Blacksmith Bar 305 W. Main Street, St Charles, IL 60174 1-630-940-2380

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Turkey Avocado Wrap

Freshly sliced, oven-roasted turkey + avocado + carrots + cucumber + lettuce + tomato + chipotle aioli.

Topgolf Naperville 3211 Odyssey Ct. Naperville, IL 60563 1-630-596-1000

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events

Elburn Days August 18th – 20th

What is Elburn Days? It is the Elburn Lions Club’s largest fundraiser of the year! Yes, that’s right… your local Lions Club hosts the event. We count on the proceeds from this event to help us meet our charitable goals.

Elburn Days starts on the 3rd Friday of August every year. The Elburn Lions Club sponsors the event, and proceeds go to to support Elburn Lions Park and Elburn Lions Charities. Our charitable projects include glaucoma screening, guide dogs, programs aiding the visually and hearing impaired, juvenile diabetes research and other programs to aid the local community. Each year, Elburn Lions Club members, their families and others donate hundreds of hours of their time to make this event a success.

We hope you’ll come down to our park to enjoy our festival and support our charitable missions!

Location: Elburn Lions Park, 500 Filmore St., Elburn, IL 60119

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AUG 18 Rebel Soul Revival 5:30 PM

AUG 18 Glow Party Fri 8 PM

AUG18 Back Country Roads Fri 8 PM

AUG 19 40th Anniversary Truck & Tractor Pulls Sat 11 AM

AUG 19 Stroker Red Sat 3:30 PM

AUG 19 Hillbilly Rockstarz Sat 6 PM

AUG 19 Josh Thompson Sat 9:30 PM

AUG 20 Mud Volleyball Sun 12 PM

AUG20 Kashmir Sun 3:30 PM

AUG 20 Hi Infidelity Sun 6 PM

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events

Elgin’s Art & Soul on the Fox brings arts and entertainment to the downtown area Elgin’s downtown area will be transformed into an Arts and Entertainment destination during the 9th annual Art & Soul on the Fox on Saturday, August 5 from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Sunday, August 6, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Hosted by the City of Elgin and Art for All, the event features over 75 artists, with booths representing a variety of mediums.

A new layout this year will utilize the beautiful Riverside Drive Promenade while continuing to allow attendees to explore Elgin’s downtown area: • “Artist Alley” - Juried Artists and artisans will line Riverside Drive Promenade • Center Stage” - Live entertainment will be on DuPage Court • “KidsZone” – Childrens’ activities and crafts will be located at the south end of the promenade near Prairie Street and the Festival Park splash pad • “Food on Wheels” - Food trucks will be located in the parking lot near the north end of the promenade • “The Galleria” – Additional artists as well as the site of the raffle drum is the gallery inside the Elgin ArtSpace Lofts • This year’s event will feature a new Saturday evening concert, to take place in Festival Park. Admission of $5 will be required to attend the concert featuring three bands:

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• 5:00 - 6:00 p.m. - Alpha Omega Funk Brotherz An Elgin party band that covers funk, disco, r&b, pop and other dance favorites from the 70’s until today. Learn more at http://www.funkbrotherz.com/.

• 6:30 - 8:00 p.m. - Luis Palermo & ORQ Brasa All Stars Luis Palermo continues his salsa musical history here in Chicago, after a great run in New York, Puerto Rico and mayor stages in USA and Latin America.

Joined by some of the best Chicago musicians, the Brasa All Stars, the unique band is sure to get you moving.

• 8:30 - 10:30 p.m. - Motown Review A group that brings tribute performances of The Temptations, The Supremes, The Commodores, The Four Tops, Smokey Robinson, Marvin Gaye & Stevie Wonder. Learn more at: https://www. facebook.com/Krunch-Time-Production-170271246361459/.

Art & Soul on the Fox will take place, rain or shine. Other than the Saturday night concert, the event is free to attend. Downtown parking options can be found at cityofelgin.org/parking.

Attendees are encouraged to support local downtown businesses during the event.

Information about the downtown restaurants and more will available at the Information Booth inside Elgin Artspace Lofts.

For more information about the show, including an entertainment schedule and an interactive map, visit the event website at elginartandsoul.com. For the latest event updates, visit Elgin’s Art & Soul on the Fox Facebook page (facebook.com/artandsoulonthefox).

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events

Alley Art Festival Returns To Downtown Aurora On Aug 26 Elgin’s downtown area will be transformed into an Arts and Entertainment Alley Art Festival returns to Water Street Mall in downtown Aurora from noon to 5 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 26.

Alley Art Festival will fill the tree-lined, pedestrian-friendly mall between Downer Place and Galena Boulevard with local art, music, food, spectacle, and fun for the day. The festival continues to be one of the largest gatherings of local artists in the Fox Valley bringing more than 60 artists to display their original works, prints, and creations.

“Alley Art Fest continues to provide an opportunity for the community to support local artists while enjoying a fun day downtown,” said organizer Marissa Amoni. Joining the hip and eclectic lineup of art this year is Dept., a group of teachers from Naperville Central High School including Daniela Cirone, Danielle Figueroa, Becky Mancuso, Amy Murphy, and Greg Padgett. Fox Valley Robotics will be demonstrating robots and have a Lego build activity. A children’s art tent will also feature hands-on, creative opportunities.

Alley Art Festival was started in 2010 by Marissa Amoni, Jen Evans, Lisa Green, and Nate Miller. The festival is supported by artists and volunteers, and is sponsored by Downtown Auroran Magazine, Aurora Downtown, and the City FOX VALLEY MAGAZINE / August 2017

of Aurora’s Neighborhood Festival Funding. The daylong festival is family-friendly, and welcomes patrons of all ages to patronize local artists, listen to local music, and support local food vendors.

To find out more about Alley Art Festival, visit Alley Art Festival on Facebook or online at www.downtownauroran.com.

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events

41st Annual Fox Valley Folk Music & Storytelling Festival 41ST ANNUAL FOX VALLEY FOLK MUSIC &STORYTELLING FESTIVAL will be held on Sunday and Monday (Labor Day), September 3 & 4, 2017, at Island Park in Geneva, IL. The festival opens at 11 a.m. each day, with eight stages featuring folk music, storytelling and workshops, including a children’s area with full-time performances and a “hand-made” folk arts area. On Sunday evening, (Sept. 3), there will also be an OLD-TIME COMMUNITY BARN DANCE from 6 to 7:30 p.m., followed by GHOST STORIES in the big tent from 7:30 to 10 p.m. The eight performance areas offer a wide variety of entertaining and educational choices for all ages.

The main music stage presents traditional & contemporary folk music performed by many of the finest folksingers in the Midwest (and Beyond).

Five workshop areas will feature instrument, vocal, dance and topical song workshops, including many “Hands On” teaching sessions. Musicians should bring their instruments so they can participate in the workshops and sit in on the many jam sessions that go on all over the Island. The main storytelling stage will feature many of the finest storytellers with tales from many places and times to entertain and educate all ages. Feature tellers will present solo concert sets and will also join members of Fox Valley Folklore Society’s Storytelling Guild in topical story segments. A new session will include a “Story Slam” where the audience interacts with the teller.

There will also be an area where selected craftspeople will display and sell hand built musical instruments & similar examples of folk art such as weaving, stained glass, tinware, pottery etc. This area also offers records & tapes by the musicians performing and a large general selection of other FOX VALLEY MAGAZINE / August 2017

folk music recordings. Another area will feature projects & entertainment for the kids. Meals and light refreshments will be available on the site, or folks can bring a picnic and enjoy the music in the lovely surroundings of Island Park. Many fine restaurants are also available within a few blocks of the Park.

The two days feature over 100 hours of folk music, dance, stories & workshops performed by over thirty-five of the finest Midwest & National folk music and storytelling acts. Over 100 individual performers are presented during the weekend, and many of the area’s top Folklife organizations present showcases spotlighting their members and their organizational focus.

The Fox Valley Folk music & Storytelling Festival is Illinois’ largest Folk Festival, and is sponsored by The Fox Valley Folklore Society,The Geneva Park District and The City of Geneva.

For more information, call (630) 897-3655.

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events

Smallville Superfest Brings Carnival, Music and Family Fun to Plano Aug. 18-21 Plano’s Smallville Superfest starts this year on Thursday night, Aug. 18, with a big carnival that will extend throughout the weekend. Opening ceremonies will start off with a Bat, er, bang, as the 1966 Batmobile skids to a halt in Plano on Friday at 5 p.m. and stays for people to check out throughout the weekend.

Easily found in Plano’s downtown, one block north of Rt. 34 on Main Street, the fest is in its fifth year running through Sunday, Aug. 21. The family-friendly festival celebrates the summer of 2011 when Superman’s enemies came to town and destroyed it during filming of the blockbuster movie, “Man of Steel.”

Born of the “rubble” left by the movie, with the help of a large group of Superman enthusiasts, Smallville Superfest has evolved into a community-wide event that brings thousands of people from all over the the world to see where filming took place and to participate in a wide variety of

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events, all of which are Superman themed.

Event coordinator, Nicole Diaz, said, “The festival is all about our superhero, Superman.

It is also helping neighbors to become friends and gives families a chance to make memories. I’m excited that the carnival is returning this year and is bigger, plus we added pony rides and a petting zoo. We have an awesome parade, some wonderful bands that will be performing, and our biggest surprise, the Batmobile.”

Car enthusiasts will not only want to check out the Batmobile Friday night, but also the Cruise Night that starts at 5:30 p.m. and a car show on Saturday, from noon to 3 p.m.

Cool off afterward at the beer tent and enjoy live bands. Friday night’s line-up includes Jody Upp, Nashville Electric, and Whiskey Romance. The street dance will also be back on Friday, starting at 8:30 p.m.

Smallville Museum, located in the historic train depot where many different movie and Superman artifacts are housed. The museum will be open during the festival on Friday from 5:30 to 9 p.m. and on Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Saturday’s events kick off with breakfast at the beer tent at 8 a.m. and Fishing with the Mayor at Foli Park from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Kids’ entertainment starts downtown at 10 a.m. with inflatables and old fashioned games. The fun continues with many different races and competitions. A wide variety of other events will take place throughout the day and some of the new events that day are DC Comics character appearances, a hip hop dance exhibition, and a memorial balloon launch at 8:30 p.m.

Some of the most popular events that participants enjoy year after year include: the zipline, where people can fly down Main Street as Superman did; Euro Bungee; Villain’s Jail; old-fashioned children’s games; inflatables for the kids; and several different contests. New this year is the petting zoo and pony rides, and an official Blackhawks vehicle on display.

At the center of this celebration is the

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Sunday begins with the traditional Andrew Kuebrich Hero Run, a very popular event, and the Boy Scouts Community Breakfast, followed by a multi-denominational worship service, and a bluegrass session. The parade @2, costume contest, K9 exercise, fire truck jaws of life demonstration, touch-a-truck, and ice cream social will also return beginning at 3 p.m., with one after the other.

Closing ceremonies will begin at 4:30 p.m.

Diaz said she is “very excited about the parade. This year we have double the number of participants and the community is really going to love it.�

Bands taking the stage on Saturday, beginning at 3:30 p.m., include Cash Inn, Feed the Birds at 5 p.m., On the Rocks at 6:30 p.m., and the headliner, Red Woody, at 9 p.m. On Sunday, Broken Ego will play at 12:30 p.m. and Cool Rock Daddies will take over at 2:30 p.m.

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In addition to all the events, many different food vendors will be serving up delicious entrees and treats throughout the weekend and other vendors, selling a wide variety of products, will also be on hand.

For additional information on the festival, visit their page on Facebook at facebook. com/smallvillesuperfest or their website at smallvillesuperfest.com.

events

Soul Asylum is joining Barenaked Ladies on Main Stage at Naperville Jaycees Last Fling onSunday, Sept. 3, 2017 The Naperville Jaycees proudly add Soul Asylum, to the Naperville Last Fling Main Stage lineup on Sunday, Sept. 3, 2017.

Tickets are now available for purchase online at www.LastFling.org.

Soul Asylum has been inspiring a high level of passion for music since 1981, when the band, initially known as Loud Fast Rules, formed in Minneapolis. The band’s raucous live sets and early releases Say What You Will, Made to Be Broken and While You Were Out — earned it a loyal fan base and widespread critical acclaim.

Soul Asylum’s indie success led to the band entering the major-label mainstream with 1988’s Hang Time and its 1990 follow-up And the Horse They Rode In On, and achieving a platinum-level commercial breakthrough with 1992’s Grave Dancers Union and 1995’s Let Your Dim Light Shine. Grave Dancers Union featured the international hits “Runaway Train,” which won a 1994 Grammy as Best Rock Song, and “Black Gold,” while Let Your Dim Light Shine spawned the hit “Misery.” The band went on hiatus after

1998’s Candy from a Stranger, during which time Pirner released his first solo effort, Faces & Names. Soul Asylum returned to action in 2006 with The Silver Lining and released Delayed Reaction six years later.

Three and half decades down the road, their eleventh studio album, Change of Fortune, is classic Soul Asylum, with first singles “Supersonic,” “Can’t Help It,” “Doomsday,” “Make It Real,” and the title track packing a familiar sonic and emotional punch, while carrying a hard-won sense of survival and perseverance that honors Soul Asylum’s storied history while pointing towards the future.

The dozen-song set embodies the band’s trademark balance of rocking abandon, infectious melodic craft and raw-nerved emotional depth, boasting a compelling set of new Pirner compositions while showcasing the strength and versatility of Soul Asylum’s current lineup, which teams founding singer/guitarist Pirner with bassist Winston Roye, Ryan Smith on lead guitar and drummer Michael Bland.

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events

Geneva Concours d’Elegance Set for August 27 The Chicago area’s premier annual showcase for top quality classic, antique, and special interest automobiles will be conducted 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, August 27, 2017, in downtown Geneva, Illinois.

Several hundred car collectors from around the country will display their vehicles. Some of these rare automobiles will compete for the coveted Benz Trophies based on a team of judges’ assessment of the degree of authenticity and quality of craftsmanship of the restoration. Other cars will be in “club lots,” space provided for owners who choose not to compete but want to display their cars in a prestigious setting.

Cars competing for the Benz Trophies are shown by invitation only and represent some of the finest classic automobiles anywhere.

Special features of the 2017 Geneva Concours d’Elegance include a unique display of Nash automobiles, a company that opened its doors 100 years ago.

Also featured will be cars with wooden bodies (“woodies”), Indianapolis-style race cars, and Buicks designed during the time innovator Walter Marr was Buick’s chief engineer. Broad special interest in each of the four genres guarantees a huge crowd for the meet.

Unique to the Geneva Concours d’Elegance is the setting in historic downtown Geneva with tree-shaded streets, historic architecture, and quaint family friendly shops and eateries.

The popularity of classic, antique, and special interest car collecting has grown tremendously during recent years to a point that many communities throughout the Chicago metropolitan area host cruise nights and community festivals FOX VALLEY MAGAZINE / August 2017

built around car shows. Though far from the largest such event, the Geneva Concours d’Elegance draws the rarest, best restored cars to compete in what is unquestionably the toughest competition.

The event is open to the public with no admission charge. Spectators of all ages are welcome, making this a memorable family attraction. Money earned from advertising and a special charity event for car owners benefits the LivingWell Cancer Resource Center (http://www.livingwellcrc.org).

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events

15th Annual Naperville Wine Festival

PRESENTED BY NORTHWESTERN MUTUAL MOVES TO NEW LOCATION, ADDS ELEVATED ATTENDEE EXPERIENCE Naperville’s premier wine event will move back to Naper Settlement for its 15th year. Presented by Northwestern Mutual Chicagoland, the Naperville Wine Festival will take place Friday, August 25 and Saturday, August 26, 2017, featuring more than 300 wines from around the world, the new Bill Jacobs BMW Connoisseurs Club, local cuisine, live musical entertainment and more.

Tickets for the highly-anticipated event go on sale Tuesday, April 11; part of the proceeds will benefit the Naperville Area Humane Society and Alex’s Lemonade Stand through the support of Northwestern Mutual Chicagoland.

“The Naperville Wine Festival continues to be an exciting annual community tradition thanks to the residents

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and visitors,” said Scott Janess of KemperLesnik, organizer of the Naperville Wine Festival. “We’re thrilled to be back in the heart of downtown Naperville and to introduce festival goers to the Bill Jacobs BMW Connoisseur’s Club, which will give them exclusive access to specialty wines and dining. We’re grateful to again have Northwestern Mutual Chicagoland as the presenting sponsor – the financial planning firm has really made these positive changes possible.”

“Supporting this festival is important to us because it strengthens our economy and sense of neighborhood here in the western suburbs.”

Ryan Kramer, managing partner for Northwestern Mutual Chicagoland says. “Not only do we see the

positive impact that this event has on the small business owners & wine vendors participating, but we also see our clients and the community that we are proud to serve, Naperville and the surrounding suburbs, come together to build and strengthen relationships.

It’s been awesome to watch over the years.”

The two-day event gives festival-goers an opportunity to immerse themselves in the wine culture, with tastings, expert and sommelier-led seminars, pairing tips, and more. Tickets go on sale at www.napervillewinefestival.com on April 11 at 8:30 a.m.

CT, with three options: • The Bill Jacobs BMW Connoisseurs Club Ticket is $120 in advance and $140 at the door. This ticket is good to use any one day of the festival. It includes a souvenir wine glass, 20 tastings, access to the Bill Jacobs BMW Connoisseurs Club hospitality tent, which includes unlimited sampling of specialty wines, heavy hors d’oeuvres and gourmet small plates from Sullivan’s Steakhouse, seminars, musical entertainment, and the opportunity to purchase wine at a discount through Standard Market.

• The Adult Wine Tasting Ticket is $35 in advance and $45 at the door. It includes 20 wine tastings, food and wine seminars, musical entertainment and the opportunity to

purchase wine at a discount through Standard Market.

• The Good Any Day Ticket is good to use for any one day of the festival. This ticket includes a souvenir wine glass, 20 tastings, seminars, musical entertainment, and the opportunity to purchase wine at a discount through Standard Market. The price for this ticket is $50 in advance.

• The Designated Driver Ticket, presented

by Bill Jacobs BMW and Mini, is $15 and includes two non-alcoholic drinks, food and wine seminars, musical entertainment, and a souvenir wine glass upon departure. Under 21 admitted free when accompanied by paid adult.

The festival will take place at Naper Settlement, an outdoor history museum, which is located across from the City of Naperville Municipal Center; free parking is available on site.

Festival-goers can plan to sip and stay at the

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luxurious Hotel Indigo Naperville Riverwalk -- located nearby the event’s entrance gates -- with a special Naperville Wine Festival package. Visit www.hotelindigo.com/napervilleil for more information.

Naperville Wine Festival is brought to you by Northwestern Mutual Chicagoland, with locations in Naperville, Downers Grove, Schaumburg and Chicago’s River North neighborhood. Learn more about how a financial plan can help you #LiveLifeDifferently by visiting them at www.chicagoland.nm.com.

Additional sponsors include Bill Jacobs BMW, Chicago’s 100.3 WSHE, Esser Hayes, Green Mountain Energy, Hotel Indigo Naperville Riv-

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erwalk, Maple Leaf Farms, Naperville Magazine, Naperville Night Out, Round Hill Wealth Management, Standard Market Naperville and The Cube at Standard Market, Sullivan’s Steakhouse and Wells Fargo Advisors.

Connect with the festival on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. For more information, visit napervillewinefestival.com.

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events

Maple Park Fun Fest set to kick off on September 2nd The Maple Park Fun Fest is scheduled to kick off Saturday, Sept. 2, at 8:00am and run through Monday, Sept. 4. The festival brings live music, craft show, car show, parade, Fire Department water fights, food vendors, 5K run/2 mile walk, bags tournament, a spectacular fireworks show and much more.

Parade, Craft Show, and Car Show participants are currently being accepted. For registration information and a complete schedule of events, visit our website at www.MapleParkFunFest.com.

Saturday, Sept. 2 8:00 am Romp in the Park (Fire Station) 8:00 am Men’s Slo-Pitch Softball (Civic Center Fields) 9:00 am Mel’nBall (Civic Center Lawn) 10am–6pm Crafter Show 10:00 am Randy Little Memorial Bags Tournament (North Park) 11:00 am Food and Beer Garden Opens 12:00 pm Bike Parade (decorating @ 11:30) 12-4 pm Tower Hill Stable Petting Zoo 1-3 pm Happy to Horror Face Painting by Maddie 6:00 pm Parade on Main Street (Rain or Shine)

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ON STAGE SATURDAY, SEPT. 2 12:30 pm Dave DiNaso Traveling World of Reptiles 4:00 pm Midnight Chaos (before & after the parade) 9:00 pm Snapshot Band Sunday, Sept 3 7:00-12:00 American Legion Breakfast Buffet 8:00 am Men’s Slo-Pitch Softball Tournament (Civic Center Fields) 8am-3pm Car Show on Main Street 9am–3pm Crafter Show (Willow St) 11am Food and Beer Garden Opens 1:00 pm Fire Department Water Fights 8:30 pm Spectacular FIREWORKS Show ON STAGE SUNDAY SEPT. 3 3:30 pm The Bare Hambones 4:30 pm DoubleSpeak 6:00 pm Hometown Band 8:00 pm Raffle Winners Announced 9:00 pm Back Country Roads Monday, Sept. 4 8:00 am Men’s Slo-Pitch Softball Tournament (Civic Center Fields) 8:30 pm RAIN DATE – Fireworks Show

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Naper Settlement 2017 August Events and Programs

events NAPER SETTLEMENT 523 S. WEBSTER ST. NAPERVILLE, IL 630-420-6010

Naperville Plays! and Sheep Sunday Naperville Plays is hosted in August at Naper Settlement. Joining our Animals, Animals! theme is the Naperville Public Library and the DuPage Children’s Museum. Families will enjoy a fun afternoon of sheepherding demonstrations, animal tales and hands-on activities. Naperville Plays! and Sheep Sunday will take place Sunday, August 6, from 1 to 4 p.m. at Naper Settlement, located at 523 South Webster St. Naperville, IL 60540.

Admission is $12 for adults, $10 for seniors (62+) and $8 for youth (412). Naperville residents with proof of residency, Naper Settlement and DuPage Children’s Museum members, and children under 4 are free.

NAPERSETTLEMENT.ORG

Sweet Treat Sunday Admission to our museum includes free ice cream from Colonial Cafe, hands-on family activities and tours of historic buildings. Between 2 and 3:30 p.m., the first 300 guests will be treated to free ice cream! Sweet Treat Sunday will take place August 13 from 1 to 4 p.m. Admission is $12 for adults, $10 for seniors (62+) and $8 for youth (4-12). Naperville residents with proof of residency, children under 4 and Naper Settlement members are free.

Third Thursday Thinkers Experience history through your senses as you take your young thinker on a museum adventure. The theme of this month’s program is Pioneer Life.

Children will learn about the pioneer experience in Illinois, play traditional games, trade for goods and make a wooden bead bracelet. Third Thurs-

FOX VALLEY MAGAZINE / August 2017

day Thinkers will take place August 17. The program welcomes children ages 2-5 from 10:30 to 11 a.m. and children ages 5-7 from 2 to 2:30 p.m. This program is free with museum admission.

Naper Nights Community Concert Series Naper Nights sets the stage for one last weekend of concerts this August. Experience a weekend full of great rock music, delicious food and cold drinks! Bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy music under the stars on the beautiful grounds of Naper Settlement. Friday, August 18, will showcase Synchronicity, a Police tribute band; followed by Naper Nights favorite, Landslide, a tribute to Fleetwood Mac. Don’t miss the last night of the series on Saturday, August 19 showcasing some tribute powerhouses.

Opening will be Simply Billy, a tribute to Billy Joel’s incredible songwriting and vocals. Closing the night, will be Bruce in the USA with their high-energy and spot-on musical performance of Bruce Springsteen & the E St. Band.

Stop by early to see local musicians perform from School of Rock. Food will be provided by Nando’s Peri-Peri Chicken. Gates are open from 5 to 10 p.m.

Tickets are $15 adults and $10 youth (ages 4-12). No outside food or beverages are allowed. Free admission for members and children under four. For more information visit www.napernights.org or call (630) 420-6010.

Solar Eclipse Viewing Picnic Bring your lunch and experience this rare solar eclipse in a prime spot on the main green at Naper Settlement! Solar Eclipse Viewing

Picnic will take place on Monday, August 21 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Hear stories about past eclipses in history at noon and 1 p.m.

Solar eclipse viewing glasses will be provided for free through the Adler Planetarium. Admission is $5 per person. Naperville residents with proof of residency, children under 4 and members are free. NOTE: Eclipse viewing can be dangerous. For more information, visit https://eclipse2017.nasa.gov/safety.

Playscape Readers Find a seat on the quilt for an engaging story time featuring changing seasonal themes.

Playscape Readers will take place on August 30. Story time for children ages 2-5 is at 11 a.m. and story time for children ages 5-7 is at 1 p.m. This program is free with museum admission.

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events

An Evening of

event to debut September 10 in St. Charles Join Random Acts Matter for An Evening of Random Acts: a fundraising event focused on “Community Taking Action to Help Community.” The event will be held on Sunday, September 10, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at Mount Saint Mary’s Park, located at the southeast corner of Prairie Street and Route 31 (Geneva Street) in St. Charles.

The event will feature the following live entertainment: • Featured Artist, Singer and Performer, Riley Elmore, Season 11 of the Voice • Local Band, Trio Life • Local artist, Jon Conover • St. Charles North High School band/jazz combo Tickets are available for $50 at randomactsmatter.com/tickets. Pre-made dinner baskets from Blue Goose can be ordered at randomactsmatter. com/tickets. Attendees can also bring their own picnic basket. Beer and wine tickets can be purchased in advance, as well as at the event. No outside alcohol will be permitted. Water will be available at no cost while supplies last.

FOX VALLEY MAGAZINE / August 2017

This elegant, community picnic-themed event encourages attendees to wear orange to support Random Acts Matter (RAM).

All Proceeds Benefit Random Acts Matter, a 501 ( c ) 3, whose mission is to instigate and mobilize our community to provide care and compassion through random acts of kindness and support.

For more event information, visit the Random Acts Matter Facebook page (facebook.com/randomactsmatter) or randomactsmatter.com.

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Free Bug Fest

returns August 19 to Lippold Park

events

Insects and the fascinating world of bugs will take center stage from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 19, when the eighth annual Bug Fest is held at Lippold Park, one-half mile north of Red Oak Nature Center on Route 25.

The free, family-friendly, stroller-friendly event will feature fun and educational attractions with a swarm of bug-related activities, demonstrations and crafts.

Parking is available at Schneider Elementary School (304 Banbury Road, North Aurora), with free shuttle buses running regularly between those sites from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Insects will take center stage once again when Bug Fest returns Aug. 19.

Visitors begin their exploration at Lippold Park, where free guide books will be available, along with T-shirts, pins, lanyards and other buggy items for sale. Children can earn prizes for visiting special Bug Fest stations.

Children and adults alike will learn about the benefits of bugs and the important roles they play such as pollinating plants and flowers, aerating the soil and serving a major role in connecting the food chain for humans.

“Bugs hold a bit of intrigue for everybody, but they’re often viewed as nothing more than pests” said Red Oak naturalist and facility manager Margaret Gazdacka. “They’re actually pretty amazing creatures that play a huge role in nature.”

Patterson Farms will have local beekeepers on hand to discuss how bees

FOX VALLEY MAGAZINE / August 2017

make honey and explain their important roles in nature. They’ll also have various items for sale, including soap, lotions and candy, all honey-based.

Other vendor guests scheduled to attend include ComEd, Butterflies are Everywhere, Kane County Audubon, Morton Arboretum, Forest Preserve District of DuPage County, Hickory Knolls and Cross Exotics, which will feature live animals.

For more information on Bug Fest, visit www.foxvalleyparkdistrict.org or call Red Oak at 630-897-1808. Guidebooks and coloring sheets can be downloaded from the website during the week prior to the event.

For more information, visit www.genevachamber.com, or call Geneva Chamber of Commerce at 630-232-6060.

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feature a&e

Fox Valley sits down with Rowena Zimmers President and Founder of ALE Solutions At an early age, I learned that hard work, passion, and commitment lead to success.

My mom paved the way for our family to realize the “American Dream.” I was only 2 when my mom left behind my dad and her 4 children and immigrated to the United States from the Philippines in search of a better opportunity for us.

While my mom was in the U.S., my grandmother taught me how to survive. She used to take me to the open market every weekend, where we would find a good location to set up our bamboo mat and sell the vegetables we grew.

My mom juggled 2 or sometimes 3 Nursing jobs. After 5 years, my mom’s dream finally came true! She became a U.S. Citizen and had saved enough money to bring all of us to this country. My mom’s strong work ethic, determination and vision taught me always to give 110% and to “Dream Big!” Thanks, Mom! In 2001, I realized a dream of my own and started ALE Solutions from the basement of my home. I was determined to build a company based on integrity and heart.

From paying my way through college at the University of Illinois–Chicago to FOX VALLEY MAGAZINE / August 2017

pursuing careers in retail, advertising and consulting – I love a challenge.

I want our clients to rely on ALE to create innovative, fun, easy-to-use solutions.

My prior experience in the temporary housing industry sparked ideas about building a better mousetrap. I launched ALE with a desire to provide an easier and more transparent way to serve the needs of displaced policyholders.

Today, I am involved in every facet of ALE, working with management to ensure the company delivers exemplary service and exceeds the needs of insurance carriers. ALE has grown

Driven to be the best that I can be, I find joy in making memorable experiences for our customers.

As ALE grew, so did my family. I am the mother of three boys, who bring out the kid in me.

They challenge me to imagine what the future will look like, and convict me to stay ahead of technology and never to take business for granted.

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team exhibits as they go above and beyond for our customers.

Though we have experienced tremendous growth, I remain passionate about being available to any customer, anytime with one phone call. I love my job!

My vision for the future includes continued company growth that benefits both customers and employees.

“God has blessed me, and I want to be a good steward of that blessing for others.”

Fox Valley Magazine: Great story about your mother, she must be a great inspiration to you.

Rowena: Yes, my mom’s strong work ethic, determination and vision to realize the “American Dream” taught me always to give 110% and to “Dream Big!” She was living proof that hard work, commitment, and faith in God would get you far in life. I am humbled that the Lord planted a vision in me to build a company based on integrity and heart. God has blessed me greatly through my mother’s example. into a dynamic, nationwide temporary housing company that employs hundreds of people and serves thousands. It humbles me to see the commitment that everyone on the ALE FOX VALLEY MAGAZINE / August 2017

Fox Valley Magazine: You started ALE Solutions in 2001 and it is now is the nation’s largest provider of temporary housing for displaced insurance policyholders. What do you

attribute your success to?

Rowena:I ultimately attribute the success of ALE Solutions to my faith and the Lord’s provision. My husband and CEO of the company, Rob Zimmers, and I have a strong faith in Jesus. We built the company through hard work, dedication and a passion to serve others. We believe in being good stewards of the gifts God has given us.

I never have taken our business growth for granted. The ALE team meets both customer needs and employee needs. As a family-owned business, we always have worked to nurture relationships and build strong teams.

We have created a home-like work environment for our employees. We have an exceptional, experienced leadership team that attracts and hires extraordinary people.

ALE always has operated with integrity, following through on what we promise to deliver. During our 16-plus years in business, I have stayed true to my humble beginnings, never forgetting how I started the business from the basement of my home.

Fox Valley Magazine: You just opened your

new 40,000 foot facility on First Street. Why did you decide to have your headquarters located in downtown St. Charles versus somewhere else?

Rowena: St. Charles is home. My husband has family in the area. When we started ALE, we decided to both build our business and raise our children here. We love the charm of this idyllic down-home community, nestled on the Fox River. The history, coupled with the vibrancy of the downtown district, attracted us to the area. I liked the idea of ALE’s beginnings being in a converted factory building at Fox Island Square. It provided a unique work environment for our team. As the business grew, we deepened our commitment to St. Charles by building our corporate headquarters at First & Illinois Streets, across the street from our original office space. As an anchor employer, my hope is that ALE employees will frequent local retailers and restaurants, helping to attract and expand additional businesses downtown.

Fox Valley Magazine: This past May, ALE Solutions was the title sponsor for the inaugural GOLF.GIVE.GALA benefitting Michael Phelps Foundation and Jason Day’s Brighter foxvalleymagazine.com

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Days Foundation that brought together some of the most celebrated sports heroes, celebrities and golf enthusiasts. How did ALE become involved?

Rowena: I attended Jason Day’s Charity Golf outing last October (2016) and won a live auction bid for a round of golf with Jason Day and Michael Phelps. I immediately thought: How could I turn this round of golf into something bigger? I suggested hosting a celebrity golf outing here in St. Charles to raise funds for the foundations of Jason Day and Michael Phelps.

Both organizations loved the idea, and our team went to work to create a memorable experience for all: celebrities and St. Charles business owners.

My dream to raise a greater awareness of St. Charles was realized in the conversations I had with the celebrities and foundation leaders during and following the event. They told me they enjoyed the charm and people of Fox River Valley throughout the two-day experience, and they would return to the area in the near future, definitely for another Golf.Give.Gala extravaganza!

Fox Valley Magazine: Will ALE Solutions be the title sponsor again next year?

Rowena: Yes, with the success of the inaugural event, ALE Solutions plans to be the title sponsor for the Second Annual Golf.Give.Gala in May of 2018.

Fox Valley Magazine: Ale Solutions also has a nonprofit arm ALECares. Tell us about its mission.

Rowena: ALECares enables us to regularly give back to the industry we serve. A portion of each claim we process goes toward the nonprofit, so it’s self-funded. This approach encourages our specialists (Catastrophe Logistics, Relocation and Housing Specialists) in their day-to-day efforts as they see how their work ultimately serves families in need.

My passion for the nonprofit stems from seeing families go without housing in times of a disaster. We wanted to help these families who are uninsured or underinsured that we would encounter at natural disaster sites.

FOX VALLEY MAGAZINE / August 2017

ALE Solutions has assisted at the nation’s large-scale natural disasters – from Hurricane Katrina to tornadoes in the Midwest.

For years, volunteers have been on-site at shelters providing water and food to disaster survivors.

In each case, we find families who are either uninsured, or underinsured needing assistance. Because our expertise is temporary housing, we leverage our existing relationships with hotel and furniture partners to get families on the road to rebuilding. The charity assists with everything from several weeks in a hotel or short-term housing to donating housewares and furniture.

ALECares also assists others in need of temporary housing. The nonprofit supports the Tim Tebow W15H Foundation. Tim spends weekends with children ages of 4 to 20 who are fighting terminal illnesses. ALECares provides hotel accommodations for the families as they spend time with Tim. Additionally, ALECares donates funds so these families can be part of Tim’s Annual Celebrity Golf Tournament in Florida.

I love landscaping. It brings out my creative side.

ALECares’ also works to raise consumer awareness about the importance of properly insuring residential properties.

And I love spontaneously connecting to the kid in me – my playful side – living in the moment. I’m most joyful when I surprise others.

Fox Valley Magazine: Outside of work, what are some of your hobbies or interests?

Fox Valley Magazine: ALE Solutions turned 16 this year, is there a birthday celebration in the works?

Rowena: I like to keep moving! My three teenage boys keep me active. Our family has an adventurous spirit, so our travels have taken us all over the world. From hiking and white water rafting to cliff diving and ziplining, I am constantly keeping up with my boys.

I love entertaining! Preparing Filipino favorites like Chicken Adobo and Pancit for my family and friends brings me great joy.

Rowena: We are planning a grand opening event to celebrate our new corporate headquarters location later this year.

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a&e RIVEREDGE 360 N. BROADWAY AURORA, IL RIVEREDGEAURORA.COM 630.896.6666

Aurora’s RiverEdge Park August Events KISS, Jason DeRulo, Southern Uprising Tour and the best Beatles and Led Zeppelin cover bands ever are highlights of RiverEdge Park’s August 2017 line up.

RiverEdge Park is located at 360 N. Broadway in downtown Aurora directly across from the Aurora Transportation Center and Two Brothers Roundhouse. For tickets and information, visit RiverEdgeAurora.com, call 630.896.6666, or stop by in-person at RiverEdge’s satellite box office, the Paramount Theatre, 23 E. Galena Blvd., Aurora, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday– Saturday.

The RiverEdge box office is also open on-site on event days beginning at noon. All tickets are general admission. Ticket fees not included. For the latest updates, follow RiverEdge Park on Facebook and Twitter. More details about August events follow:

Downtown Alive! American English

Friday, August 4 Gates open at 7 p.m., concert at 8 p.m.

Tickets: $1 through May 31, $3 starting June 1 FOX VALLEY MAGAZINE / August 2017

It’s the end of the week, you’ve spent the last five days working your tail off and you need to start your weekend right. Head out to Aurora with some friends, grab a cold beer and kick back with the Fab Four… or, at least four guys who look, sound and act just like Paul, John, George and Ringo. There’s a reason Sam Leach, the Beatles’ former manager, calls these guys “The Beatles Incarnate!” From that very first song on The Ed Sullivan Show to Abbey Road, it’s a night of hit after bloody hit from Chicago’s very own American English.

R&B and hip-hop is infectious and a constant presence on the charts.

Southern Uprising featuring Travis Tritt, Montgomery Gentry, The Marshall Tucker Band and The Outlaws Thursday, August 17 Gates open at 5 p.m., concert at 6 p.m.

Tickets: $45 through May 31, $55 starting June 1

The premier sponsor of Downtown Alive! is Old Second Bank. The series is also sponsored

by Rush-Copley Medical Center, Fox Valley Park District, EarthMover Credit Union, Paramount Fence and Kane County Chronicle.

Jason Derulo

Friday, August 11 Gates open at 6:30 p.m., concert at 8 p.m.

Tickets: $40

Kick up your spurs and pull out your cowboy hat, because when it comes to hot Southern rock, it doesn’t get any bigger or better than Travis Tritt, Montgomery Gentry, The Marshall Tucker Band and The Outlaws.

In just a few short years, Jason Derulo has gone from writing songs for some of the biggest stars like Lil Wayne, Pitbull, Diddy and more, to playing his own huge arsenal of hits to thousands of screaming fans. He’s sold over 50 million singles, racked up 3 billion views between YouTube and Spotify and is one of the hottest musicians today. Derulo wrote his first song at just eight-years-old and began gaining attention for his songwriting as a teenager.

Today, at only 27, Derulo’s incredible career is showing no signs of slowing down. In fact, it’s only getting faster. From “Watcha Say” to “Talk Dirty“ to “Wiggle,” his signature mix of pop,

Two-time Grammy winner Travis Tritt was born to be a rock star. His soulful voice started when he was just a boy singing in church with his band. Now Tritt packs in stadiums with screaming fans. If you’re looking for that classic country sound fused with bluegrass, soul and plenty of rock, look no further than Travis Tritt and his collection of hits like “Foolish Pride,” Help Me Hold On” and a whole bunch more.

Best known for their hits, “There Goes Another Love Song” and “Green Grass and High Tides,” as well as their cover of “(Ghost) Riders in the Sky,” The Outlaws know how to shred a guitar and blend country and rock into an

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unforgettable sound that needs to be heard live in concert.

KISS

Sunday, August 20 Gates open at 6:30 p.m., concert at 8 p.m.

Tickets: $70, with VIP packages available

front of the mirror in your youth,” said Jim Jarvis, V.P. of Programming and Sales, RiverEdge Park. “KISS will be the biggest concert to date we’ve ever done. And we’re so out of our minds excited to have them.”

Get the Led Out: The American Led Zeppelin

Friday, August 25 Gates open at 6:30 p.m., concert at 8 p.m.

Tickets: $5 through May 31, $15 starting June 1

Get ready to rock and roll all night! The one, the only, the incredible KISS is coming to Aurora’s RiverEdge Park for a show-stopping extravaganza.

Since 2015, Get the Led Out has been rocking audiences at RiverEdge Park. The songs you know and love will be played to perfection and as you remember them. But don’t worry, these incredible rockers never repeat a show. Using six guys instead of four, Get the Led Out does something even Led Zeppelin couldn’t do: perform their songs live as they were heard on the studio albums. From the first Led Zeppelin release to In Through the Out Door, their music is powerful, explosive, authentic and flat out amazing. With more than 6,000 fans coming out to the park last year for this band, RiverEdge expects yet another sell out. So get your tickets now for a musical experience you’ll never forget.

KISS has been thrilling and wowing audiences since the 1970s and just keep getting better. Come spend a night with all the hits you know and love, like “Rock and Roll All Nite,” “Love Gun” and “Shout It Out Loud.” Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2014, these master rockers - Gene Simmons on vocals and bass guitar, Paul Stanley on vocals and rhythm guitar, Eric Singer on drums and Tom Thayer on lead guitar - won’t stop until they’ve got the whole world partying every day.

“This is indeed a full-on, full-blown, pyro exploding, laser light shining, blood spitting, fire-breathing, guitar smoking, make-up wearing, platform shoe fashion statement, complete with the costumes and all the KISS hits you know and played air guitar to in FOX VALLEY MAGAZINE / August 2017

For tickets and information, visit RiverEdgeAurora.com or call 630.896.6666

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a&e ARCADA THEATER 105 E. MAIN STREET ST. CHARLES, IL BOX OFFICE: (630) 962-7000

What’s happening at the Arcada?

The FIXX The Fixx has been often heralded as one of the most innovative bands to come out of the MTV era. The style and substance of the band has always created a special connection with its audience.The Fixx sound is unmistakably unique and stands out among the thousands of artists filling the airwaves.

Songs such as “One Thing Leads To Another”, “Red Skies” and “Saved By Zero” remain everyday staples on the playlists of the radio stations that continue to break new acts inspired the era that The Fixx helped to define.

It is rare for an audience to experience a band that has continued to thrive for three decades.

Thursday, Aug 3 7:30 PM

For tickets, call 630-962-7000 or visit www.oshows.com.

FOX VALLEY MAGAZINE / August 2017

New World Men tribute to RUSH This Montreal-based act gives a whole new meaning to the often used catchphrase “sound exactly like the original”. Every guitar sound, keyboard tone, drum fill and vocal inflection have been studied and crafted to perfectly reproduce the classic studio albums of your favorite progressive-rock giants.

Friday, Aug 4 8:00 PM Time Travelers tribute to Moody Blues The Moody Blues originated the Rock/Orchestra experience.

True to this tradition, Time Traveller delivers a full symphonic rock concert alongside your community orchestra. Time Traveller highlights over three decades of material from the legendary group The Moody Blues, performing a full rock concert with lighting and video in addition to a complete Rock/Orchestra show.

Saturday, Aug 5 8:00 PM Hot Tuna The name Hot Tuna invokes as many different moods and reactions as there are Hot Tuna fans — millions of them. To some, Hot Tuna is a reminder of some wild and happy times. To others, that name will forever be linked to their own discovery of the power and depth of American blues and roots music. All of those things are correct, and more. For more than four decades, Hot Tuna has played, toured, and recorded some of the best and most memorable acoustic and electric music ever. And Hot Tuna is still going strong — some would say stronger than ever.

Sunday, Aug 06 7:00 PM The Dead Daisies Doug Aldrich, who has been playing & recording in several highclass bands, among them Whitesnake, Dio, and Burning Rain.

Marco Mendoza, Mendoza’s bass playing skills have seen him hold down the rhythm section for many legendary bands like Thin Lizzy, Whitesnake, and Ted Nugent. John Corabi, who was already an established singer in the rock world with bands like Angora and Scream before he joined Motley Crue in 1992 as their lead singer until 1996.

Thursday, Aug 10 7:30 PM foxvalleymagazine.com

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Power Pop with Dwight Twilley, Shoes and Pezband Dwight Twilley “I’m On Fire” (1975), “Girls” (1984)“Why You Wanna Break My Heart,” “Green Blimp,”“Soundtrack” “Lookin’ For the Magic” Pezband - from Oakpark! The Shoes - from Zion!

Friday, Aug 11 8:00 PM

Slaughter & Vixen Vixen was founded in St Paul, MN by guitarist Jan Kuehnemund. Driven by rock star dreams, like so many before her, Kuehnemund packed up her group and headed for Hollywood Saturday, Aug 12 8:00 PM Gary Lewis & The Playboys and The Grass Roots Two of the biggest pop bands of then 60s come together for one nite only! Gary Lewis & The Playboys (This Diamond Ring) and The Grass Roots (Midnight Confessions, Temptation Eyes).

Sunday, Aug 13 5:00 PM

Buckcherry with special guests The Missing Letters With Buckcherry at the wheel, Rock ‘n’ Roll is in good hands. “It’s always been about having a good time,” says Nelson. “You tune the noise out of your life for 40 minutes and enjoy yourself. That’s why we started doing this in the first place.” Todd agrees, “Buckcherry fills a void. There aren’t any other bands like this in the genre. I hope it can capture a certain time for people. That’s the goal.”

Wednesday, Aug 16 7:30 PM

FOX VALLEY MAGAZINE / August 2017

Rusted Root with special guest Nicholas David from The Voice With eight albums under their belt, over three million records sold worldwide, and countless nights on the road, Rusted Root, transcends age, generation, culture, and musical style.

Thursday, Aug 17 7:30 PM

Retro Futura Tour 2017 – Feat. Howard Jones, The English Beat, Men Without Hats, and more!

SIX of the best Artists from that cool, slick, New Wave Pop/ Rock radio era.

Friday, Aug 18 8:00 PM

An Intimate Evening with Rickie Lee Jones Two-time Grammy winner Rickie Lee Jones exploded onto the pop scene in 1978 and has made a career of fearlessly experimenting with her sound and persona over 15 critically acclaimed albums. A cultural phenomenon, Rolling Stone magazine put her on its cover twice in two years, and Saturday Night Live gave her an unprecedented three songs for her second appearance. Rickie is both a character in the songs and the songwriter singing, defying convention with her sometimes brazen sexuality and the mixed bag of jazz, rock and what has come to be known as ‘confessional’ songwriter performances.

Saturday, Aug 19 8:00 PM An Evening With Priscilla Presley The wife of Elvis makes a rare appearance and discusses her life with Elvis...interviewed by Ron Onesti on stage!

Sunday, Aug 20 3:00 PM

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a&e PARAMOUNT THEATRE 8 E. GALENA BLVD. AURORA, IL

FOR INFO AND TICKETS: (630) 896-6666 OR PARAMOUNTAURORA. COM

Tim Allen And The Happy Together Tour On Tap in August at Aurora’s Paramount Theatre National acts playing Paramount Theatre’s beautiful, 1,888-seat stage in August are comedian Tim Allen (August 18) and perennial 60s music favorite The Happy Together Tour (August 25).

Tim Allen Friday, August 18, 8 p.m.

Tickets: $95, $85 and $75 Please Note: This show is for ages 18 and up only.

Actor and comedian Tim Allen, fresh off his sixth season on ABC’s Last Man

FOX VALLEY MAGAZINE / August 2017

Standing and soon to return as the voice of Buzz Lightyear in Toy Story 4, is on a national tour this summer, and Aurora’s Paramount Theatre will host the Home Improvement star, one-night-only, for what promises to be a sold-out, hilarious, Tim Allen stand-up comedy event.

Allen honed his talents as a stand-up comic throughout the eighties, providing the perfect lead-in to his highly successful ABC television series Home Improvement where he garnered a Golden Globe Award, an Emmy nomination and was

honored with the People’s Choice Award for “Favorite Male Performer in a Television Series” for an unprecedented eight years in a row.

In 1999, during the final season of Home Improvement, Allen was honored with the TV Guide Award for Favorite Actor in a Comedy Series. In a tearful farewell, he hung up his tool belt, shifting his film career into high gear with resounding success. He made his film debut in 1994, playing a holiday icon in The Santa Clause, earning him another People’s Choice Award. In 1995, he voiced the beloved, yet deluded, space ranger Buzz Lightyear in the iconic CGI smash hit Toy Story, followed by Toy Story 2 and 3 among countless other comedy films. He can next be seen starring in Netflix’s new dark comedy film El Camino Christmas along with Vincent D’Onofrio, Luke Grimes, Dax Shepard, Kimberly Quinn and Jimmy O. He will also be reprising his role as Buzz Lightyear in Toy Story 4 set for release in 2019.

playlist you’ve created of all these “oldies but goodies.” The bands you know and love will be right in front of you, live, performing such iconic rock hits as “Happy Together,” “Windy,” “Cherish,” “Joy to the World,” “Hair” and “Sugar, Sugar.”

Sponsors: Schmitt McDonald’s and Asbury Gardens.

Happy Together Tour 2017 Friday, August 25, 8 p.m.

Tickets: $59.50 They performed some of the most incredible songs of the 60s and 70s and now they’re back to keep the good times rolling in Happy Together, a tour full of the best headline artists from yesteryear: The Turtles featuring Flo and Eddie, The Association, Chuck Negron (formerly of Three Dog Night), The Box Tops, The Cowsills and Ron Dante of The Archies. So there’s no need to keep shuffling through that foxvalleymagazine.com

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a&e ZANIE’S 4051 E MAIN ST, ST CHARLES, IL

FOR INFO: (630) 524-0001

August at Zanies

WWW.STCHARLES. ZANIES.COM

August 3-5...

Rob Sherwood...direct from Las Vegas. He is the opening act for Carrot Top’s hit Vegas show.

August 19...Emo Philips... the comedy legend returns to Zanies. HBO, Showtime, the movie. UHF & more.

Jay Leno calls him the “best joke writer in America” FOX VALLEY MAGAZINE / August 2017

August 10-12...

Michael Palascak... has appeared on the Tonight Show, Conan, Letterman. Was a finalist on NBC’s Last Comic Standing.

August 17 & 18...

Willie Barcena...

12 appearances on The Tonight Show.

August 24-26...Claude Stuart...The Tonight Show, That 70’s Show & more

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travel

Summer and Early Fall in Galena!

Galena Country is a bucket list destination! Summer and early fall are jam-packed with things to do and places to see. You could spend a week exploring the ins and outs of this remarkable area and still not cover it all. We’ve done you a favor and created a fun itinerary to get you started.

First, we suggest starting with the Helluva Half Mile. It’s considered one of the Midwest’s best attractions.

Divide your time amongst more than 101 eclectic boutiques. Carry a map of our antiques and bric-a-brac shops and search for unique treasures to take home.

Stop for a snack at one of Galena’s gourmet food stores and sample goodies while you shop or hit up the local cafés for a quick pick-me-up.

Shop for one-of-a-kind artwork and pottery and even catch local artists creating a masterpiece.

FOX VALLEY MAGAZINE / August 2017

Whether it’s finding the perfect gift for that special someone or simply treating yourself to a fabulous keepsake, Galena’s Helluva Half Mile is unlike any other Main St. experience you’ve ever had!

Next, we’re talking history. If you love history, you are in for a treat in Galena Country. Walk down any street and you’ll literally feel the history surround you. We’re talking beautifully preserved 19th century buildings, balconies that Ulysses S. Grant and Abe Lincoln spoke from and elaborate homes built by wealthy steamboat captains.

Start with a trolley tour. Climb aboard a classic red and green trolley for an informational journey to historic Galena sights, including Grant’s Home, the Galena History Museum and Galena’s frozen-in-the-1800s Helluva Half Mile. A trolley tour is the one activity you won’t want to miss

while on your Galena vacation.

Next, a tour of the Ulysses S. Grant Home State Historic Site is in order. Walk the same halls as President Grant and his family did back in 1865. See their furnishings and learn more about their life in Galena including, where Grant was when he learned he had been elected President. You’ll also enjoy exploring the grounds which house a row of tiny Miner’s Cottages, a 1800s general store and a statue honoring First Lady Julia Grant.

Another must-see history experience is the Apple River Fort State Historic Site in Elizabeth, Illinois. This Black Hawk War landmark includes both an interpretive center and a reconstruction of the long-vanished fort. The fort comes to life through living history activities and special events that present settlers’ stories of the attacking of the Sac and Meskwaki Indians in 1832.

Next, tantalize your taste buds with a wine, beer or spirits tasting. Celebrate grape harvesting season with art, music and wine at one of four wineries. Have fun tasting and learning all about their process with a behind-the-scenes view into how they make their product. Each winery comes to life with live music, fun festivals and delicious tastings all summer and fall.

Visitors can also taste their way through a couple popular beer-pubs. First, check out the Galena Brewing Co. This brewery offers informative tours and tastings. You can even order a delicious beer-flight to sample and take home a growler of your favorite flavor.

Next, experience a handcrafted pint at the Pecatonica Beer Tap House in Warren, Illinois. This happening brewery specializes in handcrafted beers brewed in small batches. Their well-balanced and full-bodied beers will impress any craft beer enthusiast. In addition to tasty drinks, both brewpubs serve up a tempting menu of sandwiches, foxvalleymagazine.com

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located on the bluff in East Dubuque overlooking the Mississippi River. As an Illinois Natural Heritage Landmark, this site is home to 26 ceremonial and burial mounds from the Hopewell Native American Culture.

Now let’s talk about adventure! Spend the day driving around Galena Country with Galena Jeep Rentals. Enjoy the afternoon soaking up the sun as you cruise with the top down out on the back roads. Pit stop at Council Hill Station for a cold drink and live music. This fun little station is known for their barn dances and laid back atmosphere. On any given day, you’ll find motorcycles and classic cars parked out front and a fridge inside stocked with cold beer.

Next, hop back in the Jeep and make the drive down to Stockton, Illinois to check out the Stockton Heritage Museum. Did you know Kraft cheese started in Stockton back in 1914? Tour the museum and learn about the history of the Kraft factory and the stories that came along with operating what was once the largest Swiss cheese plant in the world. It is fascinating!

appetizers, soups and weekly specials.

After a day of tastings, it’s time to reconnect with nature. Outdoor enthusiasts have plenty to do in Galena Country. Stop by Casper Bluff and Gramercy Park to explore picturesque hiking trails and Native American archaeology.

Casper Bluff commands some of the best views of the Mississippi River and its backwater sloughs. Home to a portion of the Aiken Mound group, 51 burial mounds, including the only known exiting Thunderbird effigy mound in Illinois, occupy portions of this 85-acre site.

More Native American burial mounds can be found at Gramercy Park. This 10-acre city park is FOX VALLEY MAGAZINE / August 2017

Next, drive over and explore the outdoors at Chestnut Mountain Resort with all their adventure opportunities. You can also bring your mountain bike and ride the trails surrounding the resort. Thrill seekers can soar high above the mountain’s peak and get an eagle’s perspective of the majestic Mississippi River Valley on Chestnut’s Soaring Eagle Zip Line. Watch the sun set over the river from inside the Sunset Grille restaurant.

If you’re more interested in experiencing the river first hand you’ll want to consider exploring the Galena River by canoe, kayak or paddle board! Float through serene landscapes all the way to the Mississippi backwaters. Visit Fever River Outfitters and choose your mode of transportation. Lessons are available and you can decide how long you’ll be renting the equipment.

Best part? You can put in right downtown.

Another outdoor adventure option is visiting a couple local farmlands. Hit the hayrack ride at Ehrler Ranch. Learn the ins and outs of a working ranch with an informative tour, horse rides

and farmland hangouts. Come October, you’ll be able to take a haunted hayrack ride up to one of Galena’s oldest cemeteries located on the Ehrler grounds.

Even more farm fun can be found at Dittmar Farms in Elizabeth, Illinois. This family owned and operated farm has been around since 1854!

Specializing in sweet corn in the summer and pumpkins in the fall, nearly 1,500 visitors traverse the beautiful grounds, laugh, pick pumpkins and snap photos each year. This year you’ll be able to take home delicious apples from their newly planted apple orchard.

After a day of adventuring, you’ll need to refuel with a delicious dinner. Galena Country is a mecca for foodies with multiple options that satisfy any and every palette. Try One Eleven Main and enjoy a meal sourced from local ingredients. Hit up the oldest operating restaurant in Galena Country, the Log Cabin Steakhouse and enjoy a Greek infused meal. Devour a burger from Small Town Saloon, voted Best Burger in Galena Country. Have a romantic night out with fine dining at Goldmoor Inn & Dining. Enjoy a breathtaking view of the Mississippi River at Timmermans Supper Club… the possibilities are endless!

Last, there are plenty of summer and fall festivals to keep you busy. Downtown East Dubuque is bumping with classic cars and bustling bars every week during Cruisin’ Thursdays.

all things garlic, amazing food, fun vendors and live music. That same weekend a collage of the regions best artists set up shop on the lawn of the Old Market House during the Market Square Arts Festival.

Don’t miss the 50th Annual Tour of Historic Homes this Sept. 23-24 A dozen homeowners will offer their historic homes up for touring. See quality American workmanship and even quirky ingenuity with an inside look at Galena’s 19th Century architecture and interiors.

The month of September also brings Mallardfest in Hanover, Ill., an old-fashioned community wide celebration Sept. 15-16, and the popular Galena Oktoberfest Sept. 30. Both events are worth checking out!

Last, you know it’s fall when the Galena Country Fair begins. More than 150 vendors fill Grant Park with crafts, treats and live music the second weekend in October. While you’re in town, visit Elizabeth’s Autumn Craft Fair. Similar vibes but different vendors selling the best crafts in the region.

This is only the tip of the iceberg of things to do and places to see Galena Country. For more ideas and travel information, visit our Welcome Center at 123 N. Commerce St. Send us an email at galena@visitgalena.org or give us a call at 815.776.9200.

The Midwest Garlic Fest takes over Elizabeth, Illinois, Aug. 12-13. Get there for a celebration of

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travel

6 tips to make the most of your visit to the zoo Children can’t help but be drawn to animals, so a visit to the zoo is always a winning and memorable choice for a summer outing. Introducing children to animals of all kinds, especially endangered species, will help foster a lifelong appreciation of them. With more and more animals needing help, educating children about conservation is more important than ever. However, cranky moods brought on by long lines, hot sun and worn out legs can quickly mar a day at the zoo.

With these tips and insights, you can get the most out of your visit, making your zoo adventure one the kids will never forget!

Score a free ticket The costs of any outing can quickly add up, but this summer, you can stretch your dollars with free admission for the kids. With every purchase of two specially marked Stonyfield YoKids yogurts multipacks, you can get a free kid’s ticket with the purchase of an adult ticket to a participating zoo or aquarium. (The offer is valid until Sept. 30, 2017) To get your ticket, visit www.stonyfield.com/azasafe/redemption, choose a participating zoo or aquarium, upload the image of your receipt, fill out the simple online form and you’re done. The Stonyfield YoKids yogurt containers even feature many endangered species like penguins, cheetahs and elephants, so kids will be excited to collect them all.

Build connections before the visit Make the visit more meaningful by learning together about the animals in advance. This can be as simple as stopping at the library a week in advance and checking out a small pile of age-appropriate books about

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monkeys, lions and other animals. In addition to that, explore online for high-quality animal printouts and games.

Be thoughtful about the timing Animals and children - especially the little ones - live on very different schedules than the adult human. Both will hit that time of day when they really need to retreat from the crowds and have some down time. Aim to visit at opening time, when the kids are fresh and ready and the animals are more likely to be up and about.

Bring your adventure pack Having all the right gear handy will greatly reduce stress for everyone while eliminating the need to purchase extra supplies at the gift shop. Pack your backpack with sun gear, including sunscreen, sunglasses and baseball caps. In the heat of summer, you want to avoid dehydration, so include a water bottle for each family member. If you want

FOX VALLEY MAGAZINE / August 2017

to bring snacks, try freezing some YoKids squeezers ahead of time - it’s the perfect onthe-go treat. Many zoos have policies about food in the exhibit area, so be aware and plan ahead before you approach the ticket booth.

Skip the stroller Don’t tax your lower back from repeatedly lifting young children from their strollers. Instead, use a wagon to help them get around.

This will give young legs a rest while giving them the freedom to climb in and out themselves as the family moves from exhibit to exhibit. If you don’t own a wagon, check if the zoo offers rentals.

A trip to the zoo is the perfect gateway to learn more about the world we live in. When the experience is positive and engaging, kids will come away with a deeper appreciation for wildlife and our role as humans to preserve and protect.

630-674-4808 Kelly Niemann Licensed Insurance Agent HealthMarkets Insurance Agency is the d/b/a, or assumed name, of Insphere Insurance Solutions, Inc. which is licensed as an insurance agency in all 50 states and the District of Columbia. Not all agents are licensed to sell all products. Service and product availability varies by state.

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out & about Snapshots of what’s going on around The Fox.

Women in Business

FOX VALLEY MAGAZINE / August 2017

July 20th Networking Event

Shodeen Norton Lake

Ribbon Cutting

Flooding in downtown Aurora

OSHA

Anytime Fitness

update presentation

Ribbon Cutting foxvalleymagazine.com

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FOX VALLEY MAGAZINE / August 2017