TriCities
April/May 2018
Serving the TriCities area Batavia | Geneva | St. Charles
Magazine
Inside
Out
Creating the perfect outdoor living space
Arts Ramble April 21
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In this issue
Coming in June…
Welcome........................................................................................6
Dining alfresco Enjoy the summer!
Your guide to the best outdoor dining in the Fox Valley. See more at KaneNeighbors.com For advertising in TriCities Magazine call 630-995-3482
Your outdoor space.....................................................................10 Add an extra room to your home— create the perfect outdoor space to entertain and enjoy the season
Fox River Arts Ramble...... 20
Fox Valley artists and galleries from Aurora to Elgin open their doors to you
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Insights...................................8 There’s no place like home
Last Look............................ 30 Jane Cooper creates wearable art
More Real Estate.................................................................................24 First impressions
UnPlug........................................................................................26 Music...........................................................................................28 Theater........................................................................................29 Neighbors Publications 630-995-3482 KaneNeighbors.com Neighbors Staff Tim Sullivan & Kate Sullivan, Publishers Amber Johnson, Production Director Ben Scott, Community Editor Linnea Carlson, Creative Director
For advertising opportunities: Anita Malik, Account Executive 630-995-3482 info@neighborsmagazines.com See the online edition at KaneNeighbors.com.
April/May 2018
Neighbors is a Service Disabled Veteran owned small business. We are proud to offer special advertising discounts to all Veteran owned businesses. NEIGHBORS™ is published bimonthly. Editorial contributions are welcome. Send your information to: newsroom@neighborsmagazines.com. Advertising deadline is the 10th of the month preceding publication. ©2018 TriCities Magazine is published by Emerald Marketing, Inc. All rights reserved. No portion of this publication may be reproduced without the written permission of the publisher. KaneNeighbors.com 5
Welcome It’s time to enjoy the great outdoors again. For many of us that starts with the extended living space of our home…that space without walls: the deck, patio, porch, yard. Weather permitting, our private outdoor space is as much a part of our home as the kitchen and family room where we cook, relax and entertain. To fully enjoy our special outdoor space, we spend a lot of time (and money) creating a place that is uniquely ours. We asked some local professionals to share some advice on landscaping, outdoor entertaining, outdoor kitchens, decks and patios, gazebos, and, porches and sunrooms. It’s also the right time to take a look at your windows, doors and siding (very important). Whether you are planning some simple spring clean up to a major outdoor living space project, we hope you will find our feature story helpful. Beyond our back yard, we are thrilled to support a special event, happening April 21, that will be a unique way to explore the TriCities area: the first annual Fox River Arts Ramble. More than 40 arts related participants, from Elgin to Aurora, invite you to stop by and experience the incredible array of culture in this area. There are studios, galleries, performing arts, exhibits and arts related businesses. They will be waiting to welcome you. The article starting page 20 has a lot of information on the Fox River Arts Ramble. You can find a map to all of the locations at FoxRiverArts.com and KaneNeighbors.com. Coming up in the June issue, we stay outdoors with a special feature on el fresco dining in the TriCities area. On a reader suggestion, we’ll include outdoor dining venues that are pet friendly. Have a Happy Spring! Tim and Kate Sullivan, Publishers
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Contributors
Scott Lebin
Insights, page 8
Scott Lebin is a long time Geneva resident, a board member of the Geneva Chamber of Commerce (20 years) and an avid photographer. Previously, he has written a bi-monthly article for the Neighbors of Geneva Magazine. He is president of Managed Economics for Doctors, Inc. and Lebin Financial Planning in Geneva. He is the past-president of Geneva Lions Club International, served on the financial advisory committee of the Geneva School District, served on the City of Geneva Economic Development Commission and was an elected member of the Board of Education. He is past president of the Illinois Theatre Association. Scott has been married to Bobbi for 52 years and has two children and three grandchildren.
Deb Gurley Real Estate, page 24 Deb Gurley is the recipient of St. Charles 2015 L.E.A.P. Award, President of Geneva Women in Business–2014, president of St. Charles Women’s Business Council–2015, current board member of Mutual Ground and previous board member of Zonta. Currently, Deb is a Real Estate Broker for Miscella Real Estate in Geneva. She is also a Certified Interior Redesign Specialist, and Home Stager. Her guiding principle in real estate and in life is…“treat others with the respect, service and integrity they deserve.”
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There is no place like home
by Scott R. Lebin
Insights
Spending time with family and friends in play, exercise and laughter is the essence of community spirit.
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The worst of the winter is over. Slowly, our winter hibernation will end as spring and summer loom before us. It is a time of year when we see some neighbors who we haven’t seen in months. How fortunate we are to have homes and neighborhoods filled with patios, porches, parks and places to promenade. As our suburban communities grew and housing took up more space, our city planners had to set aside land for parks, biking trails and open spaces. We can be thankful for our park district’s efforts to provide swimming pools, picnic sites, playground facilities and bike trails for our summer activities. Even though we have all these physical enhancements to our way of life, the key component is that they provide the opportunity of sharing our lives with our family, neighbors and friends in our own community. Spending time with family and friends in play, exercise and laughter is the essence of community spirit where citizens share time together. It takes a commitment to make sure we take advantage of these important opportunities; it’s too easy to move outside with our cell phones, iPads and videos while merely creating the same solitary indoor space we occupied in the winter. It is much easier to keep following the same habits and rituals, thus missing the unique opportunities that summer and warm weather provide. The very nature of having outdoor space caused the great migration from city life to suburban life some 60 years ago. We take much of what we have for granted. After all, we live near Chicago where there are approximately 1,974.61 acres of large and small parks within the city limits—a city where our ancestors planned for museums, band shells and outdoor places to gather. We have the opportunity in the summer, whether locally or traveling 39 miles into Chicago, to have quality time with our family and friends in a magnificent outdoor playground. In these outdoor spaces there are programs for citizens of all ages. Many of these programs create jobs for students and adults throughout the Fox Valley. We can join neighbors in play whether on a local baseball, swimming or tennis team. We can also decide to gather with our family and neighbors to ride the many bike trails available along the Fox River. In some cases, we will join other parents as spectators watching our children who are participants in various park district programs. We can also take advantage of the many walking and running paths. This use of our available open space is exceptionally valuable to a healthy way of life. We need to make a purposeful effort to create good habits. It’s positive, healthy and beneficial to our family and community to get engaged in many physical and social activities. As spring arrives, it’s a good time to evaluate the opportunities close to home and create a customized summer plan. If you don’t plan your summer activities, there’s a chance that one season will roll into another and the real opportunities of summer in the Fox Valley and the Chicago area will be over as fall and winter return. If you set aside dates in your calendar now, there will be a greater chance that you will get to experience the many benefits of living in this community. TriCities Magazine
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Your outdoor space
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How can you create the perfect outdoor space this spring? While the possibilities are nearly endless, your outdoor space can be as unique as you are and reflect your creativity and design preferences. Here are some quick and (relatively) easy tips to start you on your journey towards creating a backyard oasis. by Ben Scott
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Container gardens add color where it’s needed. Photo courtesy Heinz Brothers Greenhouse Garden Center
Landscaping Whether you’re planning a major landscaping renovation or simply want to spruce up your backyard this spring, it’s always a good idea to start with a plan. “I would start with one project, whether it’s the front of your home, a side yard or the planting of a tree,” advised Christa Bormann, Heinz Brothers Greenhouse Garden Center. “A lot of people tend to dive in really quickly, but it’s not just the planning and organizing of everything that you need to consider— it’s also the year-long maintenance that goes with that first year of planting. We try to get people to do one small project at a time; that way it’s not overwhelming and you’ll still succeed.” Consider planting just one tree in your yard this spring. Once established, trees are low maintenance, and the right tree will enhance the rest of your landscape in the form of color, shape and 12 KaneNeighbors.com
texture. Likewise, container gardening has become very popular and provides a relatively simple way to enliven any size outdoor space. “Container gardening is getting big because anyone can do it, whether you have your lifelong home or live in an apartment,” Bormann said. “For container gardens in the spring we recommend a mixture of cold tolerant pansies and other cold tolerant annuals that can take the dip in temperature that we have this time of year.” Of course, some people will be interested in starting more extensive landscaping projects this spring and summer. Whatever the scope of your project, Zack Tentinger of Tentinger Landscapes in Batavia recommends planting material that has more than one season of interest. “In the fall you can plant bulbs that will bloom in the spring, and then in
the spring you can plant perennials that are going to bloom in the summer. You might also plant some ornamental grass that turns a red color or some shrubs that turn orange or have some nice fall foliage. That way you have varied seasons of interest throughout the year.” According to Tom Sheridan, co-owner of Not Just Grass Landscaping in Batavia, there’s also a growing demand for ecofriendly gardens in the TriCities. “You’re seeing a move towards native plants,” Sheridan said. “People are more interested in attracting butterflies and bees. And there’s a trend towards organic fertilizers now—people are going with maybe just one chemical spray and two to four organic applications. The market’s definitely shifted.”
Outdoor living & entertainment Spring lunches, barbecues, pool parties, graduations—there’s no better TriCities Magazine
Not Just Grass Not Just Grass Landscaping of Batavia is celebrating 10 years of creating and caring for outdoor spaces in the Tri-Cities and surrounding areas. Not Just Grass provides a full array of landscape services including maintenance, landscape design, landscape installation and hardscape installation. The Not Just Grass team takes pride in the work they do for landscape projects both big and small. Let Not Just Grass envision, create and care for a functional outdoor space you can enjoy today. 630-253-7824, notjustgrass.com
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way to enjoy the return of warm weather than with an outdoor celebration. If you’re planning on spending a lot of time of time outdoors this spring, why not make your outdoor space as comfortable as your living room? Like the rooms in your house, your outdoor space will feel homier if it has a sense of privacy. Use fences and garden walls to enclose patios, and landscaping to define your yard and block views of neighboring houses. For overhead privacy, pergolas and arbors work well to provide shade while keeping your space shielded from upstairs windows. Whether you’re entertaining on a deck, patio or under a gazebo, consider outfitting your space with wicker
furniture. Outdoor wicker furniture is lightweight but sturdy, cheaper than metal or wood furniture, and more comfortable than most other outdoor seating options. Synthetic, weatherproof patio furniture also provides the comfort of indoor furniture and is available in a variety of styles. With comfort in mind, consider hanging a hammock in your back yard. Hammocks look great in any outdoor space and can be suspended under a tree or small pergola for shady relaxation on a sunny afternoon. Water features such as garden ponds, wading pools and fountains are similarly conducive to a relaxed atmosphere and add a touch of elegance to your yard.
Once you’ve created your ideal outdoor space, you’ll most likely want to show it off. Karen Gross, owner of Gatherings By Design in Geneva, offered some practical advice for people throwing parties outdoors this spring. “You’ll want to consider the weather— you might want to rent heaters if you’re having a tent or patio party, just in case,” Gross said. “You always want to get your tent and chairs early because the season starts to get really busy and you might not get a tent if you don’t start now.” Whatever kind of party you’re throwing, send out detailed invitations that let everyone know what time they’ll be eating. Include information about attire, and anything they might need to
A deck and a screened porch are perfect for out door entertaining and enjoyment in any weather. Photo courtesy Collins Construction Group
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bring (swimsuits, food, drinks, etc.). Also be sure you have enough seating for your guests—this might mean dragging dining room chairs outside or renting /borrowing folding chairs. Have music playing at your party, but keep it low enough that people can hear each other speak. At the end of the night when the temperature drops, consider moving the party around a fire pit. “You can do a simple fire pit, even if you just have a couple stepping stones around it and some chairs out in the lawn. You can have a lot of fun with that,” Tentinger said.
Outdoor kitchens Anyone who’s ever toyed with the idea of installing an outdoor kitchen knows there are a lot of material options and design options. “You might have something as simple as a grill with a nice brick or stone surround, or a built-in grill and a bar island, all the way up to where you have a built-in grill, refrigerators, a pizza oven, trash compactor and warming drawers,” Tentinger said. Stainless steel works best for outdoor grills and other appliances, and nonporous surfaces like limestone make cleaning a breeze. The layout of your outdoor kitchen should allow room for a dining table and
A deck adds extra living space to any home. seating arrangement if possible. Situate the eating area close to the grill to make serving easy, and consider installing speakers and lighting to make your outdoor kitchen a fun, social space where people will want to gather. If you’re on a budget, cheaper, prefabricated kitchens and modular kitchen kits are available in a variety of styles and can be built with minimal DIY experience. These kitchens often include compact refrigerators, stainless steel cabinets, countertops and a dining space.
Decks & patios Decks and patios provide a great space
Photo courtesy Collins Construction Group
for outdoor socializing and entertaining. If you’re planning on installing a new deck this spring, follow the homeowner’s association rules and local ordinances for your neighborhood; you may have to submit plans and have your proposed deck approved. You’ll then have to decide what kind of material you want to use for your decking. Dan Collins of Collins Construction Group in Batavia suggests using composite materials. “The composite materials are becoming more and more popular,” said Collins. “They’re pricey but they last a long time, and they wear better because
Heinz Brothers Greenhouse Garden Center At Heinz Brothers Greenhouse Garden Center, garden inspiration is everywhere. Located in Saint Charles, IL, we are a locally owned premier garden center offering something for every corner of your yard and garden. With four acres to explore, you are bound to find the perfect plant, pot, or garden accent to transform your garden into the oasis you always imagined. They also provide valuable services to help realize your garden’s full potentials. Heinz Bro Pros are waiting to assist you with all of your gardening needs. 630-377-6288 heinzbrothers.com April/May 2018
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there’s no maintenance to them.” There are a wide-variety of colors to choose from with composite materials, including variegated tones that mimic realistic hardwood grain patterns. When it comes to patios, you’ll have a lot of material choices, including textured veneer, colorful squares, gravel, speckled pea gravel, stone, bricks and interlocking pavers. With each surface choice comes a variety of design options. “One of the bigger things now for paver patios is barn planks—brick pavers that essentially look like wood planks,” Tom Sheridan said. Other patio surface choices come 16 KaneNeighbors.com
with a variety of design options, too. With concrete, for instance, Better Homes & Gardens recommends adding texture and color to give your patio a natural, stone look.
Roofs, windows & doors Naturally, spring is a great time to replace your roof—temperatures are rising and the blistering summer heat is yet to arrive. Unfortunately, many people postpone roof replacements or are unaware that their roof is damaged and needs to be replaced. Experts recommend that a roof should be replaced if it’s more than 20 years old, though younger roofs
can also fail. Homeowners should also be mindful of the affect of storms and other severe weather on their roof. “Hail damage is a big one and needs to be fixed right away,” said Brian Hunter, D-Wing Construction. “When hail hits the shingles, it breaks the fiberglass mats, causes the granules to break off, and you’ll have pock marks where the hail hit.” Furthermore, a roof replacement will increase your home’s value even if your asphalt shingles aren’t worn or damaged. A new roof can make a home look brand new and offer financial security for prospective home buyers. TriCities Magazine
There are some great reasons to get your windows replaced this spring, too. In addition to improving the aesthetic of your home, new windows can help homeowners save on their energy bills. “When our clients have their windows replaced they see an immediate difference,” said Joel Slater, Window World of Western Chicago. “During the summer months, Energy Star rated windows keep your home cooler because the Solarzone glass prevents the sun from heating up your home.” When you’re not spending time outside this spring, let the outdoors in with casement windows which bring in natural light and provide an open view of your yard with the most glass viewing space. Large sliding windows are similarly popular because of their large glass affect. Finally, complete the renovation of your home’s exterior with new patio doors. “Patio doors come in many different styles and can really accent the exterior of the home. New sliding doors open much more easily and can be installed with a multi-point foot lock which lets homeowners lock their doors cracked open and enjoy the summer breeze,” Slater said.
Gazebos Both decorative and functional, gazebos evoke old world charm and
add a touch of class to any yard or patio. Today, many gazebos are available as fully assembled, prefabricated structures. “Upgrading your home with a traditional or modern gazebo draws people outside to relax and socialize,” said Peter Gatsch, President of National Energy Contractors. Once you decide on a gazebo design, you’ll have to decide where to place it—do you want the structure to act as an entranceway to your garden or an outdoor room for entertaining near your back patio? Garden gazebos are often more traditional and sophisticated, while patio gazebos are perfect for relaxing, dining or socializing.
Porches & sunrooms Everyone wants to spend time outdoors—until they start to get eaten by mosquitoes. Luckily, homeowners can enjoy the best of both worlds in the comfort of a screened-in porch or sunroom. “I think screened-in porches add the best overall value to a home, from both a resale and cost point of view,” Collins said. “Screened-in porches are affordable, they look great, and people use them. I find porches are by far the most used room in the house next to the kitchen. Everybody hangs out there.” Sunrooms, while more expensive,
Great Guys Cleaning & Concierge Great Guys Cleaning & Concierge is the one-source cleaning service in the Fox Valley and beyond. They specialize in carpet, upholstery and air duct cleaning. And the Great Guys Concierge page can connect you with all the additional services you need to clean and maintain your home or business. Great Guys offers the same great service for residential clients or commercial accounts. Big or small, we welcome it all! Visit greatguysclean.com or call Tony 630-674-5612 for a free estimate!
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offer more flexibility and embrace several design styles; these rooms may include French doors that open to a deck or patio. Vinyl, wood, brick or aluminum may surround sunroom windows that in many designs span floor to ceiling. Sunroom interior design options include elements such as curtains, or sheers, fireplaces, chandeliers, ceiling fans, and wall sconces to add a touch of personality. And of course, many plants thrive in sunrooms. Writing for freshhome.com, Laura Carson Miller said popular plant picks for sunrooms include begonias and African violets, fairly low maintenance plants that produce colorful blossoms. Equipped with a few tips and some great local resources, hopefully you’re inspired to revitalize your outdoor space this spring. Whether you’re planting a container garden, planning a party or putting on an addition, make your home projects fun and don’t be afraid to think outside the box. When you’re designing for the outdoors, the sky’s the limit.
Patio doors and an arched entrance make a dramatic frame for this private garden space.
Go: Landscaping: Heinz Brothers Greenhouse: 630-377-6288, heinzbrothers.com Tentinger Landscapes: 630-913-5100, tentinger.com Not Just Grass Landscaping: 630-630-253-7824, notjustgrass.com Outdoor Living & Entertainment: Gatherings by Design: 630-880-8792, gatheringsbydesign.net Decks & Patios: Collins Construction Group: 630-406-8434 Roofs, windows & doors: D-Wing Construction: 630-352-3335, dwingconstruction.com Window World of Western Chicago: 331-903-6873, windowworldwesternchicago.com Gazebos: National Energy Contractors: 630-916-0325 For more information on outdoor living and many more useful resources, visit KaneNeighbors.com 18 KaneNeighbors.com
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Over 40 arts related venues to participate in first annual Fox River Arts Ramble The first annual Fox River Arts Ramble is Sat., April 21, 10am to 5pm. Over 40 arts related organizations and venues, from Elgin to Aurora, are participating. The Ramble is a collaborative effort of the Fine Line Creative Arts Center, the St Charles Arts Council and Water Street Studios with some musical performances and gallery opening receptions in the evening. Here is what you can expect to see at some of the cultural venues that will be featured at the Ramble.
Aurora Aurora Public Art Commission Third Floor Gallery will host the work of Rhonda Wheatley. Aurora Regional Fire Museum—The Museum will host a Pop-Up Shop filled with local artists and artisans, Aurora-area photography by Randy Benzie, and Chris Hodge’s work, including the unveiling of a new poster he designed. The Museum also features work from local artists with a fire theme in their gift shop. auroraregionalfiremuseum.org
TriCities opens spring with a tour of the arts
Aurora Artists Studios, with the work of Cheryl Holz and Anne Von Her—The Aurora Artists Studio overlooks the Fox River in downtown Aurora. Cheryl Holz’s nature inspired work will be on display, and if weather allows her new mural/installation on back of the building. Anne Von Ehr will be offering some “starving artist” pieces only available at this event. Aurora Fastprint—Celebrate a dynamic piece of artwork created by Aurora artist Cheryl Holz and installed by the Aurora Fastprint team. The larger than life piece was handcrafted and transformed into a wrap that extends the entirety of the rear wall at 54 E. Galena Blvd., adjacent to the Fox River. The three-dimensional mural highlights natural elements along the Fox River and includes nods to Aurora’s blues history, architecture and arts scene. aurorafastprint.com Gallery 1904— Located in the newly renovated, former Aurora Carnegie Library, the Gallery hosts artists from the Aurora area and beyond whose exhibitions explore a variety of themes in many mediums extending beyond paint and photography. gallery1904.com If These Walls Could Talk—This custom frame shop/art gallery will be exhibiting the work of local fine artist Rupali Kumbhani, a talented, international award-winning artist. wallstalkframing.com SciTech Hands on Museum—The museum will feature Laura Lynne Art, Wheatley Design Prints and Short Bench Woodworks. Laura Lynne hand cuts papers of all
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types to create bold, colorful, whimsical mixed-media art. Short Bench Woodworks/Timothy Schlapp uses locally sourced wood for his pieces, which are cut from the tree, dried, shaped and become a finished product by hand. Wheatley Design Prints is a fun, quirky and sometimes inappropriate line of greeting cards, wall decor and more. lauralynnart.com; wheatleydesign.info; facebook.com/Tschlapp7261. Santori Public Library—Dr. George Miller’s photography and poetry will be on exhibit in the Dunham Atrium of the Richard and Gina Santori Public Library of Aurora. Dr. Miller is the department chair of Philosophy at Lewis University as well as a poet and photographer. aurorapubliclibrary.org Zen Loft Wellness Center—A wellness center in downtown Aurora, Zen Loft offers painting classes throughout the month, as well as yoga, dance and other workshops. There is gallery space along one long wall and local artists display and sell their work at monthly festivals and Zen Loft events. zenloftwellnesscenter.com The Ramble is also supported by the Aurora Public Art Commission and their Third Floor Gallery—facebook.com/aurorapublicart and the Aurora Art League, whose members will be showing their work in the Batavia Public Library.
Elgin Elgin Symphony Orchestra—The Elgin Symphony Orchestra (ESO) invites visitors to the ESO office for a gift, candy and an exclusive half-price offer for their season finale concerts May 5 and 6. ElginSymphony.Org Side Street Studio Arts—Side Street features an exhibition in the making and made…Seven artists take over the Gallery at SSSA. Each has been assigned an area to create and exhibit within, from the basement to the AV closet, turning those spaces into theirs. Featuring Angie Gonzalez, Michelle Graves, Karl Jahnke, Rachel Elizabeth Maley, Tanner Melvin,Ken Simonsen, and Lindsey Wiseman.
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About the Fox RiverArts Ramble The Fox River Arts Ramble is a one day self-guided tour of the arts in the valley. It is an event of the Fox River Arts collaboration, organized by the Fine Line Creative Arts Center, the St Charles Arts Council, and Water Street Studios. This exciting new event includes over 40 Locations located in Aurora, Batavia, Geneva, St. Charles, and Elgin featuring Open Studios, Galleries, Art Schools, Museums, Public Art Venues/Tours, and Creative Spaces.
About Fox River Arts Fox River Arts collaborates and promotes the arts and culture to cultivate a visible arts destination in the Fox River Valley from Aurora to Elgin. foxriverarts.com and facebook.com/foxriverarts
About the St Charles Arts Council The St Charles Arts Council is a 501(c)(3), registered notfor-profit Illinois corporation whose mission is to serve and promote the arts and cultural activities, to the mutual benefit of the arts and the community. Contact the SCAC for information at 630-443-3794 or at info@StCharlesArtsCouncil.org and facebook.com/stcharlesartscouncil
About the Fine Line Creative Arts Center Fine Line is one of only a few regional art centers in this country. Internationally known artists teach a variety of workshops. The membership draws from the Chicago area and surrounding states. There are as many as 1,300 students a year, a teaching staff of 45-plus and well over 200 class offerings a year. So passionate are founder Denise Kavanagh’s friends, students and supporters that the center is run almost entirely by volunteers. Fineline.org
About Water Street Studios WSS is a community art center in downtown Batavia, led by a passionate board and dedicated staff. With the continuing efforts of the community, WSS provides art classes, exhibitions, artist studios, events, outreach and more for the greater Fox Valley region. waterstreetstudios.org
Go: Map and links to all participants: KaneNeighbors.com Complete information about the venue: Foxriverarts.com April/May 2018
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Real Estate
First impressions by Deb Gurley
An attractive exterior can make or break a home sale.
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Whether it’s a job interview, a first date, or putting your home on the market, first impressions really do matter. It never hurts to enhance or improve your curb appeal. Over 75% of home buyers drive by a home first to view its outside appearance, before scheduling a walk through. You can make your property the envy of the neighborhood by following some simple steps. Walk across the street and take a good honest look at your home. What do you notice first? What are your home’s best features and ways you could enhance them? Which features should you improve or minimize? Lawn and landscape play an important role in selling a home. Great landscaping in top shape can reduce the amount of time a home stays on the market. Mow your lawn often, pull weeds and rake leaves. Make sure hedges and shrubs have been well trimmed and mulch has been refreshed. Sweep walkways, porches and driveways. Plant a variety of colorful flowers complimenting your home by providing continuous blooms throughout the growing season. More people are beginning to view their outdoor spaces as a critical extension of their homes. Outdoor patios, porches, and even furniture are desirable items. It’s amazing what a splash of color in cushions, umbrellas and landscape notions can add to the enjoyment, without adding a costly modification. Adequate exterior lighting provides safety and security while creating a welcoming ambiance. Ensure your front door has a pop of fresh paint or stain, beckoning potential buyers to step inside. Installing new accents like house numbers, kick plates, doorbell button, welcome mat, and mailbox adds additional appeal. Keep your windows clean to bring light and sunshine in. Examine roof, siding and gutters. Pressure wash any of these as required to give your home an exterior sparkle encouraging buyers to stop and stare. A good looking face isn’t just memorable, for sellers an attractive exterior can make or break a home sale. The front of your home is what neighbors, buyers and guests see first. To ensure it sells before the rest—dress your home for success.
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Un-Plug
Butterflies galore Visit the award-winning Butterfly House at Peck Farm Park and be captivated by hundreds of butterflies as they fly, feed and land around you. The Butterfly House is open the third week of May through the third Saturday of September, weather permitting. Ask about butterfly programs, field trips and party options. 4038 Kaneville Rd., Geneva.
Whitewave BodyWork offers quick stress relief WhiteWave BodyWork in Geneva offers various forms of touch therapies that use manipulation, movement or repatterning to affect structural changes to the body. For quick stress relief, sign up for a thirty minute treatment that focuses on relieving muscular tension in the back, shoulders and neck. 528 Hamilton St., Geneva.
absolute beginners, those who are more advanced and everyone who falls somewhere in the middle. 107A W. Main St., St. Charles.
The Little Traveler serves traditional tea Monday through Saturday, the Café at the Little Traveler serves a traditional three course English Afternoon Tea at 2pm, complete with scones and a selection of teas. 24-hour advance reservations are required. 404 S. 3rd St., Geneva.
The Forest Preserve District invites you to “Take a Hike” Get to know Kane County’s forest preserves better through the district’s “Take a Hike” program. Each month, the district will highlight different preserves with
corresponding activities. Activity sheets will be posted during the first week of each month. You may complete them at any time during the year, but keep in mind that some activities are seasonal. Complete 6 of the 12 “Take a Hike” activities and you’ll receive a free patch.
Participate in the Bulldog Jog 3K Grab your best furry, fourlegged friend and head to West Main Community Park, Thurs., April 26, 6–8pm to participate in a fun and scenic 3K walk or jog. Learn more about the Bulldogs Unleashed public art project and browse a variety of pet vendors. The first 50 dogs will receive a special gift. West Main Community Park, 40W101 Main St., Batavia.
Relax and express your creativity at Wool & Co. Wool & Co. is committed to furthering the art of knitting in the community. Sign up for a class to learn a new skill, meet a new friend and get some much deserved relaxation. Wool & Co. offers classes for
Go: Peck Farm Park: 630-262-8244, genevaparks.org WhiteWave BodyWork: 630-677-5797, whitewavebodywork.massagetherapy.com Wool & Co.: 630-444-0480, woolandcompany.com The Little Traveler: 630-232-4200, littletraveler.com Forest Preserve District of Kane County: 630-232-5980, kaneforest.com West Main Community Park: 630-879-5235, bataviaparks.org/west-main-community-park-bark-park Fox River Arts: foxriverarts.com/artists 26 KaneNeighbors.com
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Music
St. Charles Singers
Photo: Jeff Cunningham
The St. Charles Singers toured England in June, 2017.
The St. Charles Singers is a professional chamber choir dedicated to choral music in all its forms. Season finale concert: Sun., April 29, 3pm, Baker Memorial United Methodist Church, 307 Cedar Ave., St. Charles The St. Charles Singers’ season finale concerts, conducted by Jeffrey Hunt, will feature the professional chamber choir’s first-ever performances of Italian composer Ildebrando Pizzetti’s “Messa di Requiem,” an early 20th-century masterpiece that will occupy the program’s first half. Transfigured Shakespeare: Fri., May 11, 7:30pm, Baker Memorial United Methodist Church, 307 Cedar Ave., St. Charles The Chicago Gargoyle Brass and Organ Ensemble and St. Charles Singers perform the world premiere of a brass and organ arrangement of composer Arnold Schoenberg’s “Transfigured Night” and the second-ever performance of Peter Meechan’s “Love Songs (Shakespeare)” for brass, quintet, organ, choir and narrator.
The Orion Ensemble Founded in 1992, The Orion Ensemble features a roster of four superb musicians—Kathryne Pirtle (clarinet), Florentina Ramniceanu (violin), Diana Schmück (piano) and Judy Stone (cello)—who have performed throughout North America, Europe and Asia, as an ensemble and individually in solo, orchestral and other chamber music roles. Performance Date: Sun., May 13, 7pm, First Baptist Church of Geneva-Chapelstreet Church, 2300 South St., Geneva Quintessential Quintets: To conclude its 25th anniversary season, the Orion Ensemble will perform works by Carl Maria von Weber, Antonin Dvorák and George Gershwin. This program welcomes back guest violist Stephen Boe and guest violinist Mathias Tacke.
Pheasant Run Mainstage Theater
The Orion Ensemble concludes the 25th anniversary season May 13.
Pheasant Run’s 320-seat amphitheater sets the stage for an amazing night of entertainment, music and fun. 4051 E. Main St., St. Charles. Upcoming Performances: Sat., April 7: Heartsfield, 8pm Sat., May 5: A Salute To The Stars: Sun, April 8: Fortunate Sons, 3pm The World’s Finest Tribute To Kiss, 8pm Fri., April 13: Mr. Blotto, 8pm Sun., May 6: Johnny Rogers Rock & Roll Show, 3pm Sat., April 14: Generation, 8pm Fri., May 11: A Salute To The Stars: Fri., April 20 & Sat., April 21: A Salute to the Stars: A Tribute to Lionel Richie, 7pm World’s #1 Garth Brooks Tribute, 8pm Fri., May 18: A Salute To The Stars: Midwest’s Premiere Sun., April 22: The Blooze Brothers, 3pm Tribute To The Band Heart, 8pm Fri., April 27: A Salute To The Stars: World’s Top Celine Sat., May 19: A Salute To The Stars: Dion Tribute, 8pm Roy Orbison The Tribute, 7pm Sat., April 28: ARRA, 8pm Sun., May 20: Heartache Tonight, 3pm Fri., May 4: Back Country Roads, 8pm Fri., May 25: Chicago Latin Groove, 8pm Sat., May 26: Hi Infidelity, 8pm
Paramount Theatre
Diana Krall Performance Date: Sat., June 9, 8pm Diana Krall is famous for her soothing, sultry voice and passion for jazz. In addition to her original music, Krall puts a new spin on old classics like “The Look of Love,” “A Case of You” and so many more. Her unique artistry transcends any single musical style and has made her one of the most recognizable artists of our time.
Go: Diana Krall performs June 9 at the Paramount Theatre.
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St. Charles Singers: 630-513-5272, stcharlessingers.com Orion Ensemble: 630-628-9591, orionensemble.org Pheasant Run Mainstage Theater: 630-584-6300, pheasantrun.com Paramount Theatre: 630-896-6666, paramountaurora.com TriCities Magazine
Theater
Paramount Theatre, Aurora The Paramount was named one of the top theaters in Chicago by the League of Chicago Theatres. Enjoy world-class entertainment. 23 E. Galena Blvd., Aurora. Once—Performance dates: April 25–June 3 (call for times) Hailed as “glorious and inspiring,” “gorgeous” and “complete magic,” Once is based on the Oscar-winning movie and is an eight-time Tony Award-winning musical.
Playhouse 38, Geneva Geneva Park District’s Playhouse 38 is the ultimate theater experience in downtown Geneva. 321 Stevens St., Suite P. Mom’s Gift—Performance dates: April 26–28, 7pm; April 29, 5pm Mom has been dead for 11 months, but then she shows up at her husband’s birthday party as a ghost on a mission.
Steel Beam Theatre, St. Charles Steel Beam Theatre presents passionate, engaging, provoking—but always entertaining—professional theatre that’s accessible and affordable to all audiences. 111 W. Main St., St. Charles. 4000 Miles—Performance dates: May 18–June 10 This Pulitzer-prize finalist for 2012 presents a funny, moving look at two outsiders who must find their way towards each other in a complicated world. A young man suffers a major loss while on a cross-country bike trip. Where to go? What to do? Like a Google map, he makes his way to the apartment of his feisty 91-year old grandmother. Over the course of a single month, these unlikely roommates cross a terrain that bewilders and infuriates as they try to reach each other.
See Once at the Paramount Theatre
Go: Paramount Theatre: 630-896-6666, paramountaurora.com Playhouse 38: 630-232-4542, genevaparks.org/facilities/playhouse-38-theater Steel Beam Theatre: 630-587-8521, steelbeamtheatre.org
April/May 2018
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Last Look 30 KaneNeighbors.com
Jane Cooper Four years ago, when Jane Cooper’s youngest daughter left for college, she decided she needed a new hobby. “With my three daughters out of the house and my husband, a long-haul trucker, on the road two weeks or so at a time, I wanted to give myself a reason to leave the office,” Cooper said. “I have always loved and had an interest in art—mostly as an admirer and sometimes buyer.” Cooper, owner of the brand development and public relations agency Cooper Hong Inc., decided to take a class at Fine Line Creative Arts Center in St. Charles. “I had been to a couple of events at Fine Line, so I decided to take a jewelry class, which melded my love of art and my love of semi-precious stones. There’s something about jewelry making—taking flat, unadorned sheets of metal and wire and turning them into three-dimensional, wearable art—which energizes me to the core.” Four years later, Cooper continues to hone her skills at Fine Line. “I am currently enrolled in Neil Anderson’s ‘Explorations in Metalsmithing and Jewelry,’ which meets on Tuesday nights. When I can afford to take two classes, I also take Claudia Engel-Rush’s ‘Design and Build It— Jewelry!’” All of Cooper’s pieces are one-of-akind, both because the stones are unique and because the settings are unique. To date, owners of Cooper’s jewelry have been family, friends, and people who have purchased items she’s donated to Literacy Volunteers of Fox Valley’s silent auction. But Cooper does have plans to make her jewelry available to a wider audience in the near future. “Soon, I intend to start selling some of my creations to support my habit. First availability will be through the store at Fine Line, when I can jury into it.”
TriCities Magazine