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Breathing new life into old homes
TriCities Serving the TriCities area Batavia | Geneva | St. Charles
Magazine
April/May 2019
In this issue
Coming in June…
Its finally here—
Welcome......................................................................................... 6
Photo: Jon Cunningham
Breathing new life into old homes............................................10 Consider making improvements, upgrades, changes that matter to you. Enhancements, inside and out, not only increase a property’s resale value, but also its functionality.
how to make the most summer Where to go and what to do; the staycation
Insights.................................. 8 A garden is a metaphor for life
Enjoy every minute of these 92 glorious summer days. Don’t miss a thing!
Real Estate..........................22 You want your home to look its best as buyers cross the threshold
See more at KaneNeighbors.com For advertising in TriCities Magazine call 630-995-3482 4 KaneNeighbors.com
TriCities Magazine
Music................................... 29 Elgin Symphony plays Aaron Copland’s Symphony No. 3
Aaron Copland in 1962
Theatre................................ 29 August Rush—the Musical premiers at the Paramount
Last Look............................ 30 Schingoethe Center shows works from important Native American artists
More UnPlug......................................................................................... 24 Neighbors Publications 630-995-3482 KaneNeighbors.com Neighbors Staff Tim Sullivan & Kate Sullivan, Publishers Hannah Ott, Community Editor Linnea Carlson, Creative Director
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April/May 2019
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Welcome The early New England architectural influence throughout the TriCities, in homes large and small, commercial buildings and government facilities is unmistakable. This area is rich in homes and commercial buildings that date back to the formative decades of the TriCities (circa 1840– 1890). In 1833, Christopher Payne and his family settled in Big Woods (Batavia). They were arguably the first settlers in the TriCities. Shortly after, possibly in the same year, Daniel Shaw Haight settled in Geneva. Also in 1833, Evan Shelby and William Franklin staked a claim in what would become St. Charles. And so it began. From the early years, Geneva attracted higher educated white collar settlers. In the economic boom of the 1870’s a mix of blue collar and white collar workers were drawn to the growing factory industry in St. Charles. Meanwhile, Batavia attracted a more diverse immigrant population with physical work opportunities in the quarries and on railroads. Most of the early settlers were from New York and New England areas, and of European descent (primarily Sweden and the Netherlands; and later Ireland, Belgium and Lithuania). These early demographic trends helped establish the defining character and personality of each community, which is reflected to this day in the architecture. Older homes are an irresistible attraction to many who come to this area. An older home gives a family a chance to embrace the past and enjoy modern conveniences and technology. In our feature story we write about the many challenges and opportunities of old home ownership. Our example in this issue is the home of Guy and Kim May, Geneva. With the help of local architect Steve Vasilion, they transformed an older home into living space uniquely designed for their family needs. We will feature more historical home and buildings in future issues of TriCities Magazine. . Tim and Kate Sullivan
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TriCities Magazine
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 22 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, current board member of the St Charles Chamber of Commerce 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.” April/May 2019
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A garden is a metaphor for life
P by Scott R. Lebin
Insights
Preparation is akin to nurturing… our children, our pets, our work.
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reparing the garden…“the readiness is all.”—Hamlet. Setting up the conditions that will make the garden fruitful is found in the planning of the kind of garden you enjoy. This provides the ability to prepare the soil and acquire the seeds necessary for the growth and development in your garden as it matures. The garden is a metaphor for abundance and generosity of nature. Many early settlers created gardens filled with herbs, vegetables, and fruits that would help grow the necessary food for their family. Other settlers provided beautiful flower gardens from which they could produce a beautiful indoor environment of flowers along with the wonderful scents such flowers emit. Preparation is akin to nurturing…our children, our pets, our ideas, our work, and our activities. Laying the groundwork helps to get ready for the planting…an action to create the future. Having a vision of the garden’s potential is the first creative step. In a garden, arranging the bulbs and seeds for various flowers helps create the final product long before we see the results that begin in the spring and carry through to the summer. The type of seeds we select
will determine the kind of plantings that will enhance our vision. We can create many types of gardens, not all of them require seeds. The types of gardens vary depending on your vision, the climate in which you live, and your desires. You can create a rock, water, herb, miniature, vegetable, scented, or flower garden. This action is not much different from the life planning we do everyday. Effective family strategies begin with a solid foundation of values which support a desired life plan. The plan creates our own story and the story of our family, motivation for our team at work, or the creation of joint activities with others. The beautiful and positive things that happen occur when we choose a life of purpose and communicate such needs to both children and those with whom we work. Every action we take or direction we communicate acts like a little seed in our garden. We can ask ourselves, “Are the seeds we are planting in the minds of others going to reap my garden on earth?” “Will I create a life of value and purpose for those around me so that my world is proactive not reactive?” “Do I feel I have the power to create the life and garden I want?” “If I don’t feel this power, will TriCities Magazine
I feel helpless to have my own vision of what is good, productive, nurturing and fulfilling?” In the cycle of life, spring is a time of rebirth and the opportunity in the Fox Valley to begin anew. We shed our winter clothing and have a new energy to participate in a world that is blooming with a natural beauty. We can make ourselves part of the season by planting our own garden and watching seedlings and small signs of life that mature within the summer months to things of beauty. Knowing that you can create the vision and produce a result by implementing
April/May 2019
your own plan is the important lesson to be learned. A vision written down becomes a goal and that goal becomes reality only if some action is taken to make it develop and bloom. Goals and visions without a plan are the same as an imaginary garden untilled and without any seeds. It has no reality at all. The lesson we can learn from this 2019 spring season is how to plant a garden and watch it grow. We can plant an idea and watch it grow. As you watch your garden grow, remember the metaphor…we plant seeds in our
children’s souls and they become the beautiful people they will be; we develop ideas for our business, and we can take pride as our business thrives; and finally, we plan for our retirement that will decades to grow, but when it flourishes, the beauty of retirement becomes a joy. Enjoy planting seeds all year long and reap the future rewards. Securities and investment advisory services offered through Royal Alliance Associates Inc.(RAA) member FINRA/SIPC. RAA is separately owned and other entities and/or marketing names, products or services referenced here are independent of RAA. Lebin Financial Planning dba Lebin Management, Inc. 20 S Second Street, Geneva, IL 60134 1-630-406-0000
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Breathing new life into old homes
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TriCities Magazine
Each of the three TriCities communities share a river, history and wonderful older homes (including many from the 19th century). Ownership of an older home comes with one unavoidable truism…something always needs fixing. If you are an owner of one of these wonderful, older homes, you may be considering improvements, upgrades, changes that matter to you. Enhancements, inside and out, not only increase a property’s resale value, but also its functionality.
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E
ach of the three TriCities communities is unique in its own way. What they share is a river, history and wonderful older homes (including many from the 19th century) along the river and within walking distance of downtown areas. From large and majestic to small and quaint, the nostalgic defining character of these homes is appreciated by residents and visitors alike. Ownership of an older home comes with one unavoidable truism… something always needs fixing. If you are an owner of one of these wonderful, older homes, you may be considering improvements, upgrades, changes that matter to you. Enhancements, inside and out, not only increase a property’s resale value, but also its functionality. In 2015, Guy and Kim May bought a traditional older home in Geneva with a vision. While they loved the location, the property and the older home, they set out to make the house fit their vision of the home they dreamed of for their family. With help of Batavia architect Steve Vasilion, Vasilion Architects (vasilion.com), they began their transformation project (see before and after photos). Spring is the time of year that homeowners get inspired, go to home shows, join gardening clubs, investigate remodeling ideas and tackle home maintenance. There are plenty of ways to create a more comfortable, more
Photo courtesy Guy and Kim May
A new garage is added to the May home. In addition to this new construction, contractor John Nevin with NCH General Contractors replaced siding, windows and installed maintenance-free gutters. attractive home. This is particularly important among young home buyers. 68% of millennial home buyers reported buyer’s remorse, according to a Bank of the West survey. Today’s high home prices mean that many millennials are buying older homes rather than newly built ones. “Before making any structural modifications to an older home I would always recommend consulting with an architect,” advises Steve Vasilion. “The one or two hour consulting fee is worth it, especially in older homes.” “Steve was great to work with,” says Kim May. “There were some ideas I had that Steve helped bring our ideas to life…
and he also helped us rethink a few things that weren’t practical for this house.” The TriCities is not only rich with older homes but also professionals ready to help you achieve the dream home you’ve always wanted.
Home exterior. If you do nothing else, carefully inspecting the roof, siding and windows on an older home should be an annual must do. Sometimes it can be the damage under the “skin” of your home that will result in the most costly repair if left unchecked. For the more ambitious projects, there are highly qualified local contractors familiar with and experienced
Photos courtesy Guy and Kim May
With the help of architect Steve Vasilion, Guy and Kim May turned their older home into their dream home. At far left, the May’s home before renovation. Center and right, the transformation is complete. 12 KaneNeighbors.com
TriCities Magazine
in older homes. The Mays chose John Nevin, NCH General Contractors, Aurora. “The Mays were very easy to work with,” notes Nevin, “which was helpful because we did this project in the winter.” NCH replaced the siding, windows, and added maintenance free gutters. But the major construction involved the driveway and garage. A steep driveway leading up to a one car garage was a serious winter hazard. Vasilion created a design that gave the Mays a two car garage, a flat driveway, and a unique walkout over the garage leading into a family favorite “media room.” The result speaks for itself (see photos).
Outdoor Spaces Make your outdoors as inviting as the indoors by adding a deck, patio or sunroom, or you can remodel one you have. There are trends like fire pits, pergolas and gazebos that make it easy to transform your area for entertainment. With the help of Neri Landscape, the May family transformed their front yard from traditional landscaping to prairie style design that takes advantage of low maintenance plants indigenous to this area. Peter Gatsch, President of National Energy Contractors Inc., said “Upgrading your home with a traditional or modern gazebo draws people outside to relax and socialize.” National Energy uses energyefficient products for everything from year-round sunrooms to screened patios. windowsnec.com. Di Giulio Exteriors & Interiors is another local option for outdoor projects. Whether you want more privacy with a new fence or want to spruce up your patio with a brick fireplace or kitchen area, there are many options to improve your outdoor space. digiulioexteriors.com. Gardening clubs in Kane County provide inspiration and an opportunity April/May 2019
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to exchange ideas with people in the community. The Fox Valley Garden Club meets the second Monday of each month from January through November at West Aurora Plaza, Aurora, foxvalleygardenclub.org. The Pottawatomie Garden Club meets at Baker Memorial Church, St. Charles. pottagardenclub.org. You can also plan a landscaping project on your own or speak with a professional. Horticulturist Carol Arand says “Landscaping should bring out the features of your house. It should enhance its color and compliment its style.” When you consult a local landscape company like Neri, you get an expert’s point of view about what indigenous plants will look best for your older home. The May family front yard is a perfect example.
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Technology additions Smart-home features are frequently requested in new construction. Fortunately, your older home can become a smart home too when you implement technology, such as home automation. Thanks to WiFi, there’s no need for clumsy and costly rewiring. Smart thermostats, smart music and programmable lighting are prime examples. The Mays added a “media” room in space over and behind their new garage.
Heating, ventilation and air conditioning HVAC is often the most challenging area in older homes. When it comes time for repair or replacement, homeowners in older homes may be in for an unexpected surprise.
In the worst of cases, HVAC equipment can become dangerous. The National Fire Protection Association, at nfpa.org, found that 19% of all home electrical fires were caused by an HVAC electrical failure or malfunction. The fires could have been prevented through proper installation, maintenance and cleaning. Bill and Josette Cosette of Patriot Heating & Cooling Services Inc. encourage homeowners to check airconditioning and heating equipment before the beginning of a new season. “HVAC maintenance, furnace cleaning and AC cleaning ensures that any small problems are found before they become major problems.” Air duct cleaning can keep your home safe, too, by improving the indoor air you breathe. “Over time, air ducts can
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Interior redesign, wall removal
Photos above and below courtesy Guy and Kim May
The May’s kitchen, pictured above before remodeling, saw a complete renovation. The new kitchen, shown below, opened up more living space. also become clogged with mold, fungi and bacteria, as well as dust,” notes Scott Johnson of DMe Heating & Cooling. Having your ducts cleaned removes the debris, immediately improving indoor air quality. Tankless water heaters are ideal for older homes because they are easy to install, take up much less space and
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can reduce energy costs by as much as 60 percent. Because they heat water on demand, you never have to worry about running out of hot water. What’s more, longer warranties than what can be found with traditional storage-tank water heaters are now available. Ask your HVAC provider about the 25-year warranty from Noritz and other quality brands.
Removing a wall between the kitchen and living room can enhance the functionality of the area and bring a modern open concept design to an older home. Cutouts in walls are another option if the wall cannot be completely removed. Remember to ensure any wall is not load-bearing before removal so you don’t impact the structural integrity of the home (your architect will help with this). The Mays completely remodeled their kitchen and adjacent living area, removing walls to open up the living space and create the feel that is just right for them. The kitchen work was done by Brakur Custom Cabinetry in Shorewood. “Kim May knew exactly what she wanted for her home and what she needed for her family,” recalls Brakur representative Mike Wiles. “In older homes especially it is important to work with a custom cabinet maker,” Wiles advises. “This is the only way to be sure everything fits exactly. We can make drawers of any depth, special cabinets for odd corners. We build everything custom to fit the space right.”
TriCities Magazine
Painting old grout After years and sometimes decades, grout in bathrooms and kitchen spaces really take a beating and turn a dirty color that’s impossible to clean. It can be timeconsuming and tedious to replace grout, so to get a fresh look consider painting it instead. Specialty grout paint makes the process simple with easy application features that simply roll on.
Update hardware Photo: Jon Cunningham
Popcorn ceilings
New paint or wallpaper
Once upon a time, popcorn ceilings were the top trend installed in every house. Today, they distract the eye and make a home look old. Consider hiring someone to redo your ceilings or research how to scrape it yourself. Leave flat or add a knock-down texture, which is a popular modern drywall finishing technique.
That ’70s pea-green paint in the bathroom and the ’80s floral wallpaper in the bedroom instantly date your home. Update the walls and your house will feel more modern. You can customize to your personal tastes. Dedicate a weekend to painting in your favorite spaces and you’ll be amazed at the transformation.
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Hardware throughout a home gets dingy and dated. To update a space without an overhaul, simply change out the hardware. Cabinet knobs, drawer handles, towel racks and more in a modern metallic hue can make a space feel fresh again without much investment. Don’t forget about air registers, which can also impact the visual appeal of a space.
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Energy-efficient insulation There are many modern insulation options available today that weren’t around when older homes were built, and many of those homes have little to no insulation at all. In addition to insulation, remember to seal spaces for air loss, such as air ducts, doors, windows, pipe inlets and the attic.
Light fixtures
Photo: Jon Cunningham
Light-fixture styles change through the years and can make your home appear older than necessary. Replacements can make a world of difference. For example, replace an old brass chandelier with a modern pendant design. Not only will it be a style update, but the light output can make the space more usable.
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Embrace the history Be sure to research the history of your home, your neighborhood. Would pulling out that original wood built-in be a detriment to the home’s authenticity
and value? Perhaps you can hire someone to update the original wood flooring, so it has the modern stain tone you like, but the planks still maintain the home’s original luster. If you are not sure about your home’s historical standing, contact your historical society. The week of April 22 is National Preservation Week. Check out the programs being offered at your park district and library. This spring, stroll the streets of older homes in Batavia, Geneva and St. Charles. Say hello to neighbors working in their gardens, wave back to folks on front porches. It is along these streets that you will discover more than the quaintness of the TriCities…you will discover a special character that these three river towns share.
Some content for this article was contributed by Brandpoint Media (BPT)
TriCities Magazine
Visit a Home Show
Home shows throughout Illinois are a great way to get fresh ideas in home renovations, view the latest trends in remodeling and schedule estimates. Visitors can meet local contractors face-to-face to discuss work they need done.
2019 Spring Home & Garden Expos St Charles: Pheasant Run Resort Mega Center April 13 & 14 Grays Lake: Lake County Fairgrounds April 27 & 28 Western DuPage County Home Improvement Expo DuPage County Fairgrounds May 11
2019 Fall Home & Garden Expos St Charles Pheasant Run Resort Mega Center Oct. 5 & 6 Grays Lake: Lake County Fairgrounds Oct. 19 & 20
Go: Brakur Custom Cabinetry: 630-355-2244, brakur.com DiGuilio Exteriors-Interiors: 630-745-0914, digiulioexteriors.com DMe Heating & Cooling: 630-485-2071, dekalbmechanical.com Fox Valley Garden Club: foxvalleygardenclub.com NCH General Contractors: 630-244-4160, nchgeneralcontractors.com Neri Lanscape: 630-443-4722, nerilandscape.com Pottawatomie Garden Club: pottagardenclub.org Patriot Heating &Cooling: 331-229-0212, patriothvacservices.net Vasilion Architects: 630-406-8880, vasilion.com April/May 2019
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Real Estate Ready, stage, sell! by Deb Gurley Light and space sell homes…you want your home to look its best as buyers cross the threshold.
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As a seller, you want your home to look its best as buyers cross the threshold. The majority of buyers start their home search online first. Photos are one of the most important components of a listing. If photos don’t pique a buyer’s interest right away, they likely won’t take the next step of making an appointment to see your home. According to the National Association of Realtors, 77% of buyer’s agents believe staging makes it easier for buyers to visualize the property as their future home, 49% believe staging a home increases the dollar valued offered, and 62% believe it decreases the amount of time a home spends on the market.
TriCities Magazine
Make your home stand out, whether in pictures or in person, by using these staging tips: ◆ Clear the clutter—Highlight the design elements of your home by removing unnecessary items and personal touches, thereby creating a blank canvas for prospective buyers to visualize the space as their own. ◆ Rearrange furniture—Although it may be tempting to move furniture against walls, this can make the room appear smaller and less inviting. Moving furniture together can give the impression of a more spacious area of warmth and comfort. ◆ Improve lighting—Use a combination of lighting options from overhead lighting, floor and table lamps, to wall lighting for creating ambience. Let as much light as possible into your home by opening all blinds and curtains and turning on all lights, thus making rooms appear larger. ◆ Clean, clean and clean again—You want every inch of your home to shine and without odors. When a buyer sees a clean home, they believe the home has been maintained. ◆ Neutral it is—A fresh coat of neutral paint (gray, white, beige, taupe) can brighten a room and make a big difference. Bolder colors often distract from a room’s real assets and don’t often highlight what potential a buyer can see. Keeping it neutral allows buyers to pay attention to the property’s features. ◆ Update with ease—While too many items can detract from a home’s value, adding a few small touches like throws, pillows, and plants can add some style and make the home more welcoming. ◆ Initial impression—The first thing most buyers see when pulling up at your home is your front door and curb appeal. Remove any dead or dying plantings, trim the bushes, replace the worn doormat, repaint the front door, power wash stoops and patios if needed. Making a first good impression emits to buyers’ good things to come. Light and space sell homes…the more space and light you create with staging, the higher dollar you can gain. Use these tips and your pictures will show it, more importantly your buyers will appreciate it with their offers.
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Un-Plug
Flashlight Egg Hunts There will be nighttime egg hunts on April 12 at Campton Hills’ Hickory Knolls Discovery Center. Kids, and their accompanying adult, bring a flashlight to find candyfilled eggs and empty ones to turn in for a marshmallow to roast. There will be two 6:30–7:15pm hikes: Kids, ages 1–5, will hike on a stroller-friendly and mowed path; kids, ages 5–8, will hike on uneven ground. A longer hike, 8–8:45pm, will be for kids 6 and up. Preregister via St. Charles Park District.
Annual Easter Egg Hunt and Bunny Breakfast All are welcome to an Easter Egg Hunt on Sat.,
April 13. At 10am sharp, kids can search for over 5,000 eggs hidden outside of Persinger Recreation Center. Families may also enjoy a delicious pancake breakfast before or after the search. Pre-registration via Geneva Park District is required for breakfast. It includes an 8:15 or 10:15am meal and a special visit from the Easter Bunny, so be sure to bring your camera.
Wine & Canvas at the farm
Doggie Easter Egg Hunt
Support the Kane County 4-H Foundation
On April 13, the Batavia Park District will host a special “Doggie Easter Egg Hunt” at the Bark Park, West Main Park Shelter. At 12pm sharp, the hunt will begin and your dog can search for eggs with treats inside. There will also be pet-friendly vendors from 11am–1pm. Your dog must be leashed during the event. Pre-registration is requested via Batavia Park District. Registration the day of the event will be at 11:30am.
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There will be painting events at Blackberry Farm in Aurora on April 10 and May 15. All materials will be provided as well as an instructor who will walk you through your painting. Each event is from 6:30–8:30pm. Feel free to bring snacks and wine if you’re of age. Painters ages 18 and up are welcome. Register online via Fox Valley Park District.
The Kane County 4-H Foundation will host its 11th Annual Dinner and Auction on April 12 at the Prairie Events Center, Kane County Fairgrounds. Purchase tickets via University of Illinois Extension and have a scrumptious pork chop dinner while raising additional funds through themed baskets in the auction. The event will be from 4:30–7pm. Last year, it raised $20,000 for 4-H Youth Development programs and other valued Extension programs. TriCities Magazine
Street Studios, Batavia; 116 Gallery, St. Charles; and School of Art, Geneva.
Cirque Magnifique raises funds for Elgin Symphony Orchestra Support the Elgin Symphony Orchestra through the Cirque Magnifique Auction and Fundraiser on Sun., April 28. The themed afternoon will include a silent and live auction, a delicious brunch, live music, raffle and other fun surprises. It will be from 12:30–3pm at St. Charles Country Club. Purchase tickets via Elgin Symphony Orchestra.
Fox River Arts Ramble The 2nd Annual Fox River Arts Ramble will be April 13 & 14, 10am–5pm. It is a self-guided arts tour featuring centers from Aurora to Elgin. Nearly 50 participating galleries are listed at kaneneighbors.com/ guides/73-fox-river-artsramble. Some Tri-City participators include Water
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Annual pancake breakfast supports Valley Sheltered Workshop Valley Sheltered Workshop in Batavia provides job opportunities to individuals with disabilities. Its Annual Pancake Breakfast is on Sun., May 5, 7:30am– 12pm. Enjoy a delicious meal, raffle and silent auction at the workshop, 325 Main St., Batavia. Kids 3 and under eat free. All proceeds will help support the workshop.
ABC Garage Sale comes back to Geneva Clean out your Attics, Basements and Closets for the ABC Garage Sale this spring. The Geneva Chamber of Commerce will be hosting the citywide garage sale on April 26 & 27 from 8am–4pm. Participants have their address and key items listed on a map on the chamber’s website and at certain locations in town.
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Un-Plug
Drive Fore the Depot On April 28, join fellow supporters of the Batavia Depot Museum at TopGolf in Naperville for Drive Fore the Depot. From 1–5pm, the fundraiser will include a golf tournament, cash prizes and a luncheon with networking. Register via Batavia Historical Society.
Go Over the Edge 4 Girl Scouts Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois will raise funds through Over the Edge 4 Girl Scouts, presented by Jewel-Osco. In the unique event, funds go up while participants rappel down Pheasant Run’s 140-foot, 16-story tower. Each participant will raise $1,000 in funds, an amount which helps 40 girls in need join the Girl Scouts program. Space is limited to the first 92 participants. Anyone over age 11 may participate. Register on June 1 via Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois.
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Have eco-friendly fun at Peck Farm Park The Natural Resources Committee of Geneva and Geneva Park District invite the public to celebrate Earth Day at Peck Farm Park. From 11am–3pm on Sat., April 13 there will be a farmers’ market, paper shredding, green vendors, used book giveaway, bicycle tune-ups, health screenings, games and activities. There will also be rain barrels for sale and Tesla electric vehicles to explore. Food and beverages will be available for purchase.
Celebrate Earth Day Support Batavia’s Montessori Academy with the family at an exciting Earth Day festival. On April 27, 11am–2pm, celebrate the planet with wildlife onsite, live music, free food, adoptable pets, eco-friendly vendors and a Disney raffle. Kids activities include games, crafts,
a salad making station, henna designs and bounce houses. The event is free for kids 13 and younger. Purchase tickets via Batavia Montessori Academy.
Unique, hand-made gifts for Mother’s Day Kids can create a great gift for Mom or make one with her at Heinz Brothers, St. Charles. On May 5, 1–1:30pm, or May 11, 9:30–10am, make a tea cup planter with a small plant or flower inside and a card. On May 5, 2–3pm, or May 11, 10:30–11:30am, make a miniature fairy garden with Mom’s help. The program includes instruction, rock, charcoal, soil and moss. Purchase plant materials and a container, or bring a container of your own. Register via Heinz Brothers.
St. Charles holds Memorial Day Parade Honor veterans of past and present this Memorial
TriCities Magazine
Day, May 27. At 10am, the annual Memorial Day Parade in St. Charles begins at Sixth St. continuing to Riverside Ave. It ends with a memorial service at the Freedom Shrine, located north of the police department. The VFW and American Legion will also have an open house at 311 N. Second St., Unit 109, for all service veterans and their families including active and inactive club members.
Parents—have a night out while the kids party On April 13 or May 11, enjoy a night out while the kids have a blast at Batavia’s Red Oak Nature Center. Children, ages 3–10, are dropped off at 5:30pm for a night of fun games, hikes and pizza. There is also a movie and popcorn where kids can bring their favorite blanket or stuffed animal. Kids may be picked up at any time but no later than 9pm. Register online via Fox Valley Park District.
Go: Batavia Historical Society: 630-406-5274, bataviahistoricalsociety.org Batavia Montessori Academy: 630-879-2586, montessoribatavia.com Batavia Park District: 630-879-5235, bataviaparks.org Elgin Symphony Orchestra: 847-888-4000, elginsymphony.org Fox River Arts Ramble: foxriverarts.com Fox Valley Park District: 630) 897-0516, foxvalleyparkdistrict.org Geneva Chamber of Commerce: 630-232-6060, genevachamber.com Geneva Park District: 630-232-4542, genevaparks.org Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois: 844-476-4463, girlscoutsni.org/ote Greater St. Charles Events Hotline: 630-443-3959, visitstcharles.com Heinz Brothers Greenhouse: 630-377-6288, heinzbrothers.com St. Charles Park District: 630-513-6200, stcparks.org University of Illinois Extension: 630-584-6166, web.extension.illinois.edu/dkk Valley Sheltered Workshop: 630-879-2359, valleyshelteredworkshop.org April/May 2019
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Photo: Cornelia Babbitt
Music
Tribute Concerts
The Orion Ensemble concludes their musical journey with a “A Brahms Finale” on May 5.
April 6 through May 24—Mainstage Theater, Pheasant Run, St. Charles Hear the music of your favorite artists live at Pheasant Run this season. April 6, 3pm—She Gees, a female-fronted Bee Gees cover band, April 6, 8pm—Dancing Queen: A Tribute to ABBA April 26, 8pm—Green Soul Foo: Green Day, Collective Soul & Foo Fighters April 27, 8pm—Piano Man: A Tribute to Elton John & Bill Joe May 4, 8pm—Rico: The Ultimate Santana Experience May 10, 8pm—Lionel Richie by Gregory James & All Night Long Band May 24, 8pm—Barry Manilow Tribute by Jay Gates,
St. Charles Singers April 28, 3pm—Baker Memorial United Methodist Church, St. Charles The St. Charles Singers will conclude their 35th concert season with Victorian Flourish, an eclectic program of Victorian-era choral works, both sacred and secular from composers Claude Debussy, Felix Mendelssohn, Henry Leslie and Horatio Parker.
Todd Kessler from The Voice May 3, 7:30pm—Millennium Plaza, Aurora Aurora Downtown, welcomes Todd Kessler from The Voice at its 4th Annual Food Truck Festival. The Chicago-based artist will perform his folk-rock music at the Gazebo Stage. Joybird opens at 6pm, featuring Chicagoan Jess McIntosh.
Elgin Symphony Director Jeff Hunt leads the St. Charles Singers on April 28 with a “Victorian Flourish.”
May 4, 7:30pm & May 5, 2:30pm—Hemmens, Elgin Conductor Andrew Grams leads the award-winning Elgin Symphony Orchestra when they present “Concert for the ’Common Man.‘” The concert features Aaron Copland’s Symphony No. 3 that includes “Fanfare for the Common Man.” They will also play Gustav Mahler’s Adagio from Symphony No. 10.
Orion Ensemble May 5, 7pm—Chapelstreet Church, Geneva The final performance of the season, A Brahams Finale, includes Brahms’ “Piano Quintet in F Minor, Op. 34” as well as pieces by Alfred Uhl and Sergei Prokofiev. Stephen Boe is guest violist.
Live Music Fridays Cafe & Barr, Geneva Cafe & Barr is a cozy spot to enjoy live acoustic music over a coffee, wine or beer. May 10, 7pm—Jim Green May 17, 7pm—Anthony Padilla The Voice contestant Todd Kessler appears on the Gazebo Stage, Millennium Plaza, Aurora on May 3.
David Crosby May 13, 7:30pm—Arcada Theatre, St. Charles Crosby plays songs from his remarkable career span of over 50 years, along with his musical friends, the Sky Trails Band. A meet and greet upgrade is available with ticket purchase.
Go: Arcada Theatre: 630-962-7000, arcadalive.com Aurora Downtown: 630-674-2099, auroradowntown.org Café & Barr: cafebarr.com Elgin Symphony: 847-888-4000, elginsymphony.org Mainstage Theater: 800-474-3272, pheasantrun.com Orion Ensemble: 630-628-9591, orionensemble.org St. Charles Singers: 630-513-5272, stcharlessingers.com 28 KaneNeighbors.com
TriCities Magazine
Theater
August Rush: The Musical—Paramount Theatre, Aurora April 24–June 2 The world premier performance of August Rush tells the story of Evan, a young orphan who seeks to find his parents. On his journey, he expresses his emotions through guitar, displaying outstanding musical talent and making some peculiar friends. Enjoy seeing, and listening, to the story unfold in this world premier musical version of the captivating motion picture.
Proof—Playhouse 38, Geneva May 3–11, 7:30pm & May 5, 3pm In this emotional drama, Catherine, grieves over the loss of her father, a brilliant and famous mathematician. As she maintains her strength while dealing with her manipulative sister, she finds an old notebook. At first, she thinks she is only grieving—and managing her manipulative sister—as she starts to uncover a family history she never knew about. The old speckle-bound notebook brings to light a buried family secret that tests the sisters’ kinship as well as the romantic feelings growing between Catherine and Hal, her father’s former student. Some themes intended for mature audiences.
The Savannah Sipping Society—Steel Beam Theatre, St. Charles
August Rush: The Musical has its world premier at the Paramount on April 24.
May 24–June 16, 3pm & 8pm In this delightful comedy, four Southern women decide it’s time to escape their daily routines and live a little bit more. Their yearning for excitement comes to them in the form of an impromptu happy hour. Enjoy a laugh with the ladies.
Go: Paramount Theater: 630-896–6666 paramountaurora.com Playhouse 38: 630-232-4501 genevaparks.org Steel Beam Theatre: 630-587-8521 steelbeamtheatre.com
April/May 2019
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Last Look “Pity Party” mixed media painting by Julia Buffalohead
Quilt created by Martha Dominguez Diaz
Photos courtesy Schingoethe Center, Aurura University
The Schingoethe Center of Aurora University is now showing two exhibitions,“BECOMING: Transformations in American Indian Art” and “Stitches of the Soul: Las Puntadas del Almas: Story Quilts from the National Museum of Mexican Art.” “Becoming” features contemporary American Indian artists who are transforming their artistic traditions. With deep knowledge of the past informing the present, they offer a powerful and personal visual vocabulary, disrupting stereotypes of what Native American art is supposed to be. Featured are some of the most important Native artists working today whose work is in the collections of the Metropolitan Museum, NYC and the Denver Art Museum, to name a few. The “Stitches of the Soul” quilt exhibit features the creations from the Mexican Museum of Art. Since 2008 women in the community have been meeting to quilt personal stories of family and culture, an album of their lives. The Schingoethe Center is located at 1315 Prairie St. on the campus of Aurora University. It is open Monday through Friday from 10am–4pm and Tuesday until 7pm. Admission is free.
Go: Schingoethe Center: 630-844-7843 aurora.edu/museum
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TriCities Magazine
