TriCities
June/July 2019
Serving the TriCities area Batavia | Geneva | St. Charles
Magazine
Escape The Ordinary
Great short trips to explore wines, music & art
Indulge Revitalizing treats Keep the summer flowing with luxury treats to get you ready for the fall season
See more at KaneNeighbors.com For advertising in TriCities Magazine call 630-995-3482 4 KaneNeighbors.com
Welcome......................................................................................... 6
Escape the Ordinary............................................................ 10 Short jaunts with a focus on art, wine and music.
Insights.................................. 8 Summer was our best season
Photo Media Bakery—Jenn Richardson
In this issue
Coming in August…
Real Estate..........................22 Pets are factoring into home purchases TriCities Magazine
Music................................... 29
This Photo and Cover © Jay Blakesberg/Retna LTD.
Blues on the Fox features blues giants Taj Mahal and Robert Randolf & the Family Band
Cover: Taj Mahal headlines Blues on the Fox, Aurora, June 14
Theatre................................ 29 Shakespeare in the Park returns to Geneva’s Island Park
Last Look............................ 30 Connecting past and present
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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Welcome If you are looking for places to enjoy wine, music and art this summer, you don’t have to go farther that the TriCities…unless you want escape for a weekend. We offer a “short list” (starting on page 11) of places and events for your consideration, that will help you “escape the ordinary.” Our list is arranged by travel time, from the immediate area (Geneva, Aurora, Naperville) to under five hours by car (Grand Rapids, St. Louis, Brown County, Indiana; Iowa City). Our focus in every suggestion is music, art and wine. At the end of the feature story (page 21) is or “Go” list that includes travel time from Geneva to each destination. With each destination, we also include one suggestion for accommodations. In most of the places in our list there is at least one less than ordinary place to stay. Although it may be difficult to book a room on short notice we couldn’t resist the adding an especially interesting B&B, or a hotel close to the action. The obvious missing element in our list, is activities for kids. Without doubt, you won’t have trouble finding information on local and regional events and activities for the whole family. So, we stuck to weekend getaways geared to adults. Scott Lebin’s article (pages 8–9), on the other hand, is wonderful overview of summer life in the TriCities and all that this area has to offer…for the whole family. For more information on summer getaways, local attractions, and updates on events and activities, please visit KaneNeighbors.com. We’d love to hear about your “escape from the ordinary.” Have a fantastic summer. Tim and Kate Sullivan
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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 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.” June/July 2019
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Summer was our best season by Scott Lebin
“And so, with the sunshine and the great bursts of leaves growing on the trees, just as things grow in fast movies, I had that familiar conviction that life was beginning over again with the summer.”
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enrich our lives and fulfill the promise and warmth of a beautiful summer. Batavia is home to Harold Hall Quarry Beach which is the stone quarry that Batavia residents have been using as a swimming facility since 1920. It features a sand bottom with 60,000 square feet of islands, slides, and a diving area. There are a playground and picnic area as well. Many Batavians remember the years when a big canvas was dropped over the rocks and movies were viewed during the summer months. Memories of the “ole swimming hole” are part of the best memories of Batavia in the summer. The annual Fourth of July Fireworks Display is also a favorite event of early summer where neighbors meet neighbors and children don’t have to travel far from home to observe a magnificent firework
Insights
ummer in the Fox Valley has arrived when neighbors venture into their yards, begin appearing in parks, and are seen without their winter coats, scarves and gloves after a long cold winter. They are ready to enjoy all things warm and wonderful that summer brings. Great aromas from outdoor cooking can be smelled across property lines and the activity of diners start to fill the outdoor seating venues at many of the local restaurants. Children at play kicking soccer balls, laying chalk on the sidewalks for hopscotch, throwing horseshoes, and playing baseball fill the air with sounds that were muffled during the winter and wet spring months. The joy of living in the Fox Valley is the abundance of special opportunities to explore the outdoors with events that
F. Scott Fitzgerald, The Great Gatsby
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surveyed by ArtFairCalendar.com. For 19 years Geneva will have seen this Art Fair grow from its infancy to a nationally recognized event. Third street in Geneva is closed from State Street to the train station and features a juried selection of artists who create 3D, oils, watercolors, chalk, sculpture, clothes, furniture, jewelry, artistic “PlandScapes” and much more. Next, the Concours d’Elegance on August 25 brings to 3rd Street in Geneva a special opportunity to view cars that have been part of the history of the automobile industry. This year’s antique, classic and modern automobiles will also highlight the Stutz, Allard, and fintailed models along with many more spectacular vintage automobiles. In addition, the event will celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the Bentley Motor Car Company along with the celebration of the Sports Car Club of America’s Diamond Anniversary. Traveling to the north once again we will discover a plethora of events to fully round out the offerings during the Summer in the Fox Valley. On June 15 there will be a 5K run in St. Charles along with a team tug of war contest for both youth and adult age brackets to determine the strongest in the Fox Valley. Why not gather your team together,
register, and begin practicing to be able to compete and win the tug of war contest? Independence Day festivities at St. Charles Parks will provide entertainment throughout the day. Like Batavia, on July 4 there will be an aweinspiring firework display that can be viewed from the bridge or any spot along the Fox River in downtown St. Charles. Don’t forget to blend into your summer experience biking, backyard barbecues, block picnics, Cougars baseball games and family get-togethers. These make summer in the Fox Valley seem like a wonderful vacation. Yes, “…life does begin all over again with the summer.” There is a great passage about summer arriving in “To Kill A Mockingbird” by Harper Lee. She captures in two sentences the childhood emotion of summer and the return of a close childhood friend Dill. This universal memory of Scout about summer is one we all understand only too well… “Summer was on the way; Jem and I awaited it with impatience. Summer was our best season: it was sleeping on the back screened porch in cots, or trying to sleep in the tree house; summer was everything good to eat; it was a thousand colors in a parched landscape; but most of all, summer was Dill.”
Photo: Tim Sullivan
extravaganza near Randall Road in Batavia. To the north of Batavia, Geneva provides some engaging annual events to create a panoply of activities throughout the summer. Swedish Days, June 18–23, will provide the annual carnival rides and games. There will be parades, special events, music competition, kids’ area, food booths and craft fairs for the 200,000 visitors who usually attend the event. This year, Tuesday night will be dedicated to the business community, with focus on unique shops staying open late and providing entertainment and special events. Third Street and State Street will come alive with many unique events, prizes, and entertainment. Wednesday will be the Park District day to provide opportunities for members of the community to watch and share their children’s talents. Big popular bands will be featured on Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights. This year on Sunday the 23rd of June the “Granddaddy” of all Illinois festival parades will be celebrating its 70th year. Many families locate their spots on the street early in the day to continue what has grown into an annual family event. Geneva’s Art Fair, July 27th to 28th, was voted last year as the 6th “Best Art Fair in America,” out of the best 50 shows
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Escape
The Ordinary
Short jaunts with a focus on Arts, Music, and Wine
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The Midwest is filled with relaxing attractions to enjoy a quick getaway. With art festivals, live music, wine tours and great food to go with it, you’ll be surprised by what the region can offer.
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In less than five hours, you can reach these destinations and make the most of your weekend in a new and exciting setting. Explore an unfamiliar community, make new friends and bond with old ones, view original art, listen to live music while you relax with a delectable glass of wine. All you need is an open weekend, open mind and the desire to escape the ordinary.
Local escapes (under 2 hours)
Photos this page courtesy Geneva Chamber of Commerce
Within a relatively short drive from home you can find some incredible events and great places to stay…for a complete escape.
Geneva Swedish Days—June 18–23 More than 200,000 festival goers will escape to Geneva, Tuesday through Sunday, June 18–23 for “The Granddaddy of Illinois Festivals.” A continuous
Don’t miss the Grand Parade during Geneva’s Swedish Days festival. street full of arts and crafts, nightly entertainment, Swedish (and American) food booths, and a Grand Parade…all along the streets of 100 specialty shops and a fine collection of restaurants, with an incredible selection of wine. Accommodations: From the Herrington Inn you can walk to all the attractions. The perfect spot for a luxurious, overnight escape. 630-2087433 Herringtoninn.com.
Aurora Blues on the Fox—June 14–15 Blues lovers won’t have to travel far to escape. Aurora’s 23rd Annual Blues on the Fox Festival (River’s Edge Park) has a killer lineup. Friday evening’s headliner is Taj Mahal (see cover) with opener Ana Popovic kicking off suburban Chicago’s 12 KaneNeighbors.com
largest summer blues festival. Gates open at 6pm. Popovic starts at 7pm. Saturday’s starring act is Robert Randolph and the Family Band, with Coco Montoya, Ronnie Baker Brooks and Jamiah Rogers paving the way with a full day of rocking live blues. Gates open at 2pm. Jamiah Rogers opens Saturday’s quadruple bill at 3pm. Accommodations: The Holiday Inn Express & Suites is right across the street from River’s Edge Park and just a block away from downtown Aurora. 630-896-2800. Ihg.com/holidayinnexpress
Naperville Rib Fest—July 3–6 Outside of Chicago, no festival can match this lineup: Billy Idol, Living Colour, Flo Rida, KC & The Sunshine TriCities Magazine
Band, Brantley Gilbert, Randy Houser, Joe Hanson. Seriously? This festival is worth a weekend escape. Along with Ribfest, Naperville is full of music, art and wine from every continent. Accommodations: Hotel Indigo is Naperville’s newest luxury hotel, located along the city’s famous river walk, in downtown Naperville. 630-778-9676. hotelinnaperville.com
Woodstock 2019 Woodstock Folk Festival— July 21 If folk music is your escape of choice, check out Woodstock’s festival. Spend the weekend and get to know this charming town and its charming people. The festival runs from 12–6pm. Accommodations: Stay the night at historic Cherry Tree Inn B&B. 815-308-5946, cherrytreeinnbnb.com.
Ottawa 2 Rivers Wine Fest, June 7–9
Bed and Breakfast, an historic Queen Anne built in 1890, sits high on a bluff overlooking where the Illinois and Fox Rivers cross paths. 312-912-5931. Ottawariverhouse.com
Relax on the front porch of Woodstock’s venerable Cherry Tree Inn.
Photo courtesy Cherry Tree Inn
The Illinois Grape Growers and Vintners Association, Heritage Corridor Convention and Visitors Bureau and the Ottawa Visitors Center bring you the
BEST of Illinois wine, outstanding jazz and FRESH grilled lobster at this festival in downtown Ottawa, in the heart of Starved Rock Country. Accommodations: The River House
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Midwest escapes (under 3 hours) Galena Galena Cellars Vineyard May–Oct., 11am–8pm (6pm during week)
Galena is the ideal, quick getaway in Illinois. Shop and dine in the charming downtown area, see the century-old buildings, take time to hike, cruise the river, visit the sculpture park and sip on local wines. Galena has a breadth of options when it comes to wine. A short drive can bring you to the striking views of Galena Cellars Vineyard. Enjoy wine tasting, a wrap around deck, guest suites and even time with your dog at the petfriendly vineyard. Accommodations: The comfortable Irish Cottage Boutique Hotel is set against Galena’s rolling hills and promises warm hospitality like that of the Emerald Isle. Enjoy the unique shops lining Galena’s Main St. June/July 2019
Milwaukee, Wisconsin Lakefront Festival of Art— June 21–23 Milwaukee attracts music lovers with Summerfest and historic venues like Eagles Ballroom and Turner Hall, but it’s also becoming a popular hub for the arts. With the Milwaukee Art Museum, an
iconic structure on the lake with moving “wings”, and the Lakefront Festival of Art, there are endless opportunities to view or purchase art. The festival showcases 170 national artists on the museum grounds. You can also view art in the architectural form at The Domes and see the stunning botanical gardens inside.
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Accommodations: The Pfister Hotel has elegant rooms in a landmark Victorian hotel with a spa, pool and dining. 414-273-8222 thepfisterhotel.com.
Kenosha, Wisconsin Tribute Island Music Festival— July 19–21 At the beautiful Simmons Island on the lakefront, see live bands pay tribute to artists who performed as early as Woodstock ’69 to as late as Lollapalooza ’18. The event features the most celebrated tribute acts from across the Midwest, with over 50 bands playing on five stages. For the arts, visit Anderson Arts Center, a mansion that now exhibits local, regional and national artists. There is also the monthly Kenosha Art Market, June through October. Grab Sunday brunch at Union Park’s Tavern before you check out the market. Accommodations: Spend a weekend in the renovated 100-year-old building turned premier luxury boutique hotel, The Stella. 262-842-2000 stellahotel.com.
Lake Mills, Wisconsin Ephraim Pottery Studio and Gallery Tues.–Sun., til 5pm Lake Mills, on the shores of Rock Lake, is the perfect place for a quaint lakeside experience. The town’s distinctive studio, Ephraim Pottery Studio and Gallery, displays and sells ceramic works of art. The gallery will impress you with outstanding, textured designs on tiles, vases, lanterns, light fixtures and
Madison, Wisconsin Chazen Museum of Art Tues.–Sun., til 5pm (9pm Thurs.) Art is everywhere in Madison! The Madison Museum of Contemporary Art, everything from jewelry to junk art at Hatch Art House, even its farmers market has arts and entertainment. The Chazen Museum continues to be the top spot for art exhibition. Home to the second-largest collection of art in Wisconsin, it has more than 20,000 works. It also has temporary exhibitions which may be local, national, international, contemporary or historical in scope. Accommodations: The Edgewater boutique hotel sits between Lake Mendota and Monona, giving visitors spectacular views all-around. 608-535-8200 theedgewater.com.
Photo courtesy Ephrraim Pottery Studio
Photo courtesy Harley-Davidson Museum
Experience the thrill of the ride at the Harley Davidson Museum in Milwaukee.
jars. Buy one and bring home a one-of-akind keepsake. Other attractions include the old-fashioned James J. Chocolate Shop and Lewis Station Winery that is set inside an old gas station and has awardwinning, natural wines. Accommodations: The Fargo Mansion Inn B&B is on the national list of historic places and has cozy, sophisticated rooms. 920-648-3654 sweetautumninn.com.
One-of-a-kind ceramics are handcrafted at the Ephraim Pottery Studio in Lake Mills. 16 KaneNeighbors.com
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A perfect sunset frames the lighthouse at New Buffalo on Michigan’s western shoreline.
Harbor Country, Michigan Grape & Grain Wine Tours 10am–5pm Harbor Country township sits right on the eastern shore of Lake Michigan, and it’s an enjoyable experience no matter which area you visit. Three Oaks is the arts and cultural center, Harbert has plenty of antique shops, Michiana
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has cabin rentals, Union Pier is a major destination for families and New Buffalo, “the Gateway to Michigan”, has great food, lodging and retail plus the largest number of slips for boating enthusiasts. You can also experience the region’s wine country. Consider a Grape & Grain Tour which brings you to the well-known Round Barn Winery, Tabor Hill Winery
and Free Run Cellars in less than seven hours. Get a group together and create your own bus tour, choosing from a list of 24 wineries, breweries and distilleries. Accommodations: Stay at an upgraded vacation cottage in a resort setting with Beachwalk Vacation Rentals. Lake Michigan is just a short walk away. 800-814-7501 beachwalkvacationrentals.com.
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Saugatuck, Michigan Village Square Art Fair—July 27 Saugatuck is one lively city to explore! From wineries like J. Petter and Fenn Valley to festivals on the lake like Venetian Fest in late July, there is an attraction for everyone. There is also a focus on the arts. The Ox-Bow School, Saugatuck Center for the Arts, Douglas Art Club and many galleries create an art lover’s paradise. Plan to attend the annual Village Square Art Fair. There will be diverse works from about 150 artisans in the heart of downtown. Accommodations: The Hotel Saugatuck, an old mill that became the luxury bed & breakfast it is today, is a relaxing place to rest after an active night on the town. 269-416-0731 thehotelsaugatuck.com
Bloomington-Normal Illinois Shakespeare Festival June through August
The Ox-Bow School of art in Saugatuck is a center of activity. Mansion is just steps from farm-to-table restaurants, shops and live-music venues in the downtown area. 309-828-8816 vroomanmansion.com.
Midwest escapes
of jazz music on the University of Iowa Pentacrest with national, regional and local musicians on the Main Stage and three side stages. Food vendors, art booths, children’s activities and Friday night’s fireworks will all be part of the fun. Accommodations: With deluxe amenities in every room and unique embellishments like rooftop seating and kitchens in the suites, Hotel Vetro will enhance your Iowa City adventure. 319-337-4961 hotelvetro.com
Photo courtesy Illinois Shakespeare Festival
If you love Shakespearian theatre, then Bloomington-Normal is the place to (under 5 hours) visit this summer. The city will surprise Iowa City, Iowa you with its fine arts culture, going Iowa City Jazz Festival—July 5–7 beyond its college town reputation. The Iowa City is a major city for music Illinois Shakespeare Festival, starting festivals. The Soul & Blues Festival June and running through mid-August, and Cornfed Folk Festival attract many has improv, sing-alongs and plays Caesar new visitors. There is also a big Jazz and As You Like It. The festival will also Festival that’s free for all who attend. include Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice. Attendees can enjoy a wonderful variety Accommodations: The Vrooman The Illinois Shakespeare Festival runs through the entire summer with productions at several venues.
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Grand Rapids, Michigan A Taste of Culture Wine Tour Friday, recurring every two weeks
The Missouri Botanical Garden provides many peaceful resting spots.
Brown County, Indiana T.C. Steele State Historic Site Tues.-Sun., 10am–5pm
area makes traveling around the city a breeze. 616-774-2000 amwaygrand.com.
Photo courtesy Friends of T.C. Steele Historic Site, Inc
Grand Rapids is one of the fastest growing cities in America and its tourism has also grown, thanks to community-wide efforts. The Gerald R. Ford Presidential Library and Frank Lloyd Wright’s Meyer May House are always admired attractions. There is also a delicious wine and food tour, “A Taste of Culture.” In four hours, Raise A Glass tour guides will take you to three locations and share premium wine education. The tour includes 11 pre-selected wines, charcuterie and a delicious gourmet small plate at each stop. Accommodations: The 4-star Amway Grand Plaza Hotel has a superb view of the river and its location in the downtown
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Brown County and its county seat, Nashville, have national parks with breath-taking views, historic buildings, covered bridges over calming streams and plenty of restaurants and shopping downtown. Visit the location where the arts started at the T. C. Steele State Historic Site. American impressionist painter Theodore Clement Steele and his wife Selma established a home, studio and gardens on 211 acres of land in the early 1900’s. It remains essentially unchanged, giving visitors an experience where history meets art. Accommodations: Relax in updated rooms while you take in the views of Nashville, Indiana at the Brown County Inn. 800-772-5249 browncountyinn.com.
Spend time walking through the garden trails at the T. C. Steele State Historic Site.
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St. Louis, Missouri Whitaker Music Festival— June 5–30, 7pm St. Louis is known for The Arch as well as brewery tours, sporting events, diverse museums and tasty food. The city also gives you a chance to unwind after all the sightseeing at its openair Whitaker Music Festival. The Wednesday evening concerts take place at the Missouri Botanical Garden. The free shows, funded by the Whitaker Foundation, have picnic fare, beer, wine, soda and sno-cones available for purchase. Accommodations: The Autograph Collection of Hotel Saint Louis has nearby local attractions, a full service spa and many rooms with balconies overlooking the city. 314-241-4300 marriott.com.
Go:
Photo courtesy Brown County Visitors Center
Aurora—20 min: 630-256-3190, enjoyaurora.com Bloomington-Normal—2 hrs: 309-665-0033, visitbn.org Brown County—4 hrs, 20 min: 800-753-3255, browncounty.com Galena—2 hrs, 30 min: 815-776-9200, visitgalena.org Geneva—5 min: 630-232-7494, geneva.il.us Grand Rapids—3 hrs, 30 min: 616-258-7388 experiencegr.com Harbor Country—1 hr, 50 min: 269-469-5409, harborcountry.org Iowa City—3 hrs: 800-283-6592, thinkiowacity.com Kenosha—1 hr, 45 min: 262-654-7307, visitkenosha.com Lake Mills—2 hrs: 920-648-2344, ci.lake-mills.wi.us Madison—2 hrs, 10 min: 608-255-2537, visitmadison.com Milwaukee—2 hrs: 800-554-1448, visitmilwaukee.org Naperville—30 min: 630-305-7701, visitnaperville.com Ottawa—1 hr, 15 min: 815-434-2737, pickusottawail.com Saugatuck—2 hrs, 50 min: 269-857-1701, saugatuck.com Woodstock—1 hr: 815-338-4300, woodstockil.gov
See the Bean Blossom covered bridge on the self-guided covered bridge tour when you visit Brown County, Indiana. June/July 2019
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Real Estate
Buyers get the last bark
by Deb Gurley
Now, more than ever, pets are factored into a family’s house hunting.
A Realtor.com online survey revealed 75% of home buyers that own pets would pass on their dream house if it weren’t the “right one” for their animals. Almost 87% of respondents took their pet needs into account when buying a home. Now more than ever, pets are factored into a family’s house hunting Buying a home that is inconvenient for your pet is a mistake that you will relive several times a day. The following list of amenities should be carefully considered before securing your new home: 1. Fenced yard—can provide your animals a safe and secure area for play. Watch HOA’s and local laws for any restrictions on fences and pet count limitation or breed. 2. Pet friendly floors—pay attention to carpets as some fibers can trap toenails and easily collect hair or odors. Wood, laminate, tile and luxury vinyl plank are more scratch resistant or easily refinished. 3. Neighborhood accepting—Are there parks and sidewalks for taking walks? Is the home located in a non-high traffic area? Be aware of any wildlife that may roam in the area. Small pets could be especially in danger of encounters with coyotes or foxes.
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4. Floor plan—Is the home multi-level and how does your pet handle stairs? Does the home have a place, such as a mud room, for wiping paws or cleaning up? Does the home ensure room and storage for your pet’s needs. Many owners take the time to plan ahead by making the new house appear as similar as possible to the old to ease the transition Things to consider are pet-proofing the home, keeping animals on a leash until they are accustomed to the area, get to know the neighbors, create a familiar place with beds, crates, food bowls and toys as close to the previous space as possible. Make sure animals get plenty of exercise and positive attention during what could be a stressful time. When buyers, especially Millennials, are asked about home features that are important to them, 33% replied space for their pets was a driving motivator in their home purchase, even above marriage or children. Looks like Fido really is considered to be a critical part of the family and continues to be man’s best friend! Shown are some of Miscella’s own—
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Un-Plug
See movies under the stars at Geneva’s Movies in the Park Movies in the Park will be back this summer! Starting at dusk, approximately 8:30pm, the schedule is as follows: June 6, Ralph Breaks the Internet, Moore Park; July 11, Mary Poppins Returns, Wheeler Park; and August 1, The Meg, River Park. Don’t forget a blanket or lawn chair. Concessions will be available for purchase at these weather permitting events.
The 70th Annual Swedish Days Festival has something for everyone Tuesday through Sunday, June 18-23, is the popular Swedish Days Festival in
A child smiles big while she enjoys the teacup ride at Swedish Days’ annual carnival. Geneva. Enjoy music and dancing at three different stages, including Geneva’s Got Talent finalists, and shop at side-walk sales and at Tuesday’s Moonlight Madness when shops are open ‘til 9pm. The Art & Craft Show is Fri. and Sat. As always, delicious food booths will be set up with Swedish/American fare, the carnival will be in town and Kids Creation Station (and new Toddler Town) will have little ones entertained. Finally, Sunday’s Grand Parade is the perfect community gathering to end a fantastic week.
Geneva Chamber hosts new event Wheels on Third The Geneva Chamber of Commerce is hosting a classic car show on June 20 for Swedish Days. From 5-9pm, the first 50 registrants can visit 24 KaneNeighbors.com
S. Third St., between South and Crescent streets, to see classic cars at the inaugural event. Registration is free. Visit Geneva Chamber online and use the “Coming Up Soon” tab.
Dodgeball Tournament for 3rd-8th Graders Register by June 14 for an exciting Dodgeball Tournament for Swedish Days’ Kids Day. Teams will play at Wheeler Park on June 21, 9am. Teams of 6-8 players will receive shirts and are guaranteed at least two games, officiated by All Star Sports. Prizes will be awarded to the winning team in each grade division e.g. 3rd/4th Grade division. Register via Geneva Parks. In addition, one team member must email All Star Sports with the players’ names and Team Captain.
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Swedish Day 5K Lopp The Geneva Chamber invites you to “Come for the Run, Stay for the Fun” with Swedish Days’ 5K Lopp. On June 22, 7:30am, run along the scenic Fox River from Gunnar Forest to 719 S. Batavia Ave. Runners are even encouraged to wear Scandinavian-themed attire. The event, sponsored by Northwestern Medicine, also includes a Kids’ Dash (ages 1–8) beginning at 7:15am. Registration fee includes a t-shirt and pancake breakfast. Register via Geneva Chamber by June 13.
Peck Farm House 150th Anniversary Celebration On June 29, visit Peck Farm Park, 11am-2pm, to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the historic Peck Farm House. Visitors can explore the history gallery and interpretive center inside. There will also be activities for kids and sheep herding demonstrations at this fascinating, free event. No registration necessary.
Cosmic Mini Golf at Wheeler Park Cosmic Mini Golf is coming to Stone Creek! Choose from two nights, weather permitting, on June 21 & 22. From 9 to 11:15pm, start a game under the stars with friends and family, complete with glow-in-the-dark golf balls.
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Marquee Youth Stage Summer Camp Register your K-6th grade child today for a fun Summer Camp at Marquee Youth Stage, 619 W. Main St., St. Charles. Courses start at 8:30am, ending at 11:30am for half days or 3:30pm for full days. The two-week sessions start June 10 through August 2. Sessions include Improv, Stagecraft, Page to Stage sketches, Acting Boot Camp, theme days, performances and theater games.
The Second Annual Heart of the Fox Festival will have fun for the whole family St. Charles’ Heart of the Fox Festival takes place on Sat., June 15 at Pottawatomie Park. The day begins with a certified 5K Run along the Fox River, 7:30am, followed by the Colonial Cafe Kids Color Run, 9am. There will be Team Tug of War at 10am in front of the Grand Pavilion. The Ivy Academy Kids Zone also has an obstacle course, face painters, a magician and other activities for kids, ages 3 to 12. Proceeds benefit St. Charles Kiwanis Club and River Corridor Foundation.
Socialize and paint with friends at Primrose Palette Primrose Palette, a social painting group at Primrose Farm, will have two events open to the public on KaneNeighbors.com 25
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June 15 and July 20. From 7–9pm, an experienced artist will lead participants with a guided tutorial as the sun sets over the lovely farm, located at 5N726 Crane Rd. The event is for ages 21 and up and is BYOB. Snacks and nonalcoholic beverages will be provided. Register via Emily Lambillotte 630-513-4382 elambillotte@stcparks.org.
Become a Master Gardener this summer Attend an informational meeting on Tuesday, June 18, 10am, to become a Master Gardener through the University of Illinois Extension campus. The college, located on Randall Rd. near the Fairgrounds, invites interested individuals
The Flatlander Fitness Tug of War team squares off against its opponent at last year’s Heart of the Fox Festival. to meet certified Master Gardeners, learn more about the volunteer program and how it serves communities. “You do not need to be an experienced gardener to qualify,” said Program Coordinator Sarah Fellerer. Please register via fellerer@illinois.edu.
Norris Cultural Arts Center to present its summer exhibits Plan to visit summer art exhibits in the Norris gallery, starting with an exhibit from the Morton Arboretum, open now through June 28. There will also be an exhibit from local art centers, Fine Line Creative Arts and Water Street Studios, starting July 13 and presented through Aug. 21. Norris Cultural Arts Center is connected to St. Charles East High School off Dunham Rd.
2019 Men’s Golf Tournament at Pottawatomie Golf Course 26 KaneNeighbors.com
On July 27 & 28, 7am-2pm,
experience tournament golf at its finest in a two-day stroke play tournament. The event, weather permitting, will be for golfers ages 16 and up and is open to all participants regardless of residence. The entry fee includes green fees, Skins Game and Low 9-Holes Game. Register via Bill Ogiego 630-584-8356 bogiego@stcparks.org.
Celebrate Flag Day in Batavia Save the date for Batavia’s Flag Day Celebration on June 14, 6-9pm. It will be a fun-filled day complete with a free concert by the Batavia Community Band, a community sing-along of patriotic favorites by the Mister River Music Makers, Riverwalk luminarias, food vendors and variety of activities and performances for the entire family. Visitors can also learn about the Flag Day Monument to be unveiled next year and purchase signature bricks for its base. TriCities Magazine
Windmill City Festival Pet Parade on the Riverwalk
Seniors Invited to “Coffee’s On” Monday gatherings
The 2019 Windmill City Festival will include a Pet Parade on July 13, 10am, sponsored by the Batavia Animal Clinic. The first 50 registered participants receive a complimentary ‘doggie bag’. Interested participants must register near the Main Stage from 9:15–9:50am. Pets can win ‘best overall’ in five categories: Best Kisser, Best Trick, Highest Jump, Best Costume and Most Unusual.
Every Monday, 10am–12pm, senior citizens can enjoy a morning of fun for just one dollar. All seniors are invited to stop by the Civic Center, 327 W. Wilson St., Batavia, to play games, cards and enjoy coffee and conversation. The event, sponsored by Dimples Donuts, is a great way to meet new people. No registration necessary.
Craft & Vintage Summer Market The Batavia Depot Museum will present a Craft & Vintage Market as part of the Windmill City Festival on July 13 & 14. Visit the market at the beautiful Batavia Riverwalk, where more than 30 booths of art, crafts and vintage goods from local crafters and small business owners will be open to peruse. Interested in becoming a vendor? Fill out an application from the Batavia Park District website.
Go:
Ride 4 Animals Charity Ride and After Paw-ty Anderson Animal Shelter invites you to save animals in need with its Ride 4 Animals, June 23. The four stop “free flow” charitable ride follows this schedule of events: Pet Supplies Plus, North Aurora, 10am–12pm; Alley 64, St. Charles; Barbed Wire Harley Davidson, DeKalb; and Gifford’s Kitchen, Elgin, 2–5pm for the After Paw-ty. The After Paw-ty will have great food, prizes, a silent auction and live music. Purchase tickets for the full ride or just the party via Anderson Animal Shelter.
All Star Sports Live: allstarsports03@live.com Anderson Animal Shelter: 847-697-2880, andersonanimalshelter.org Batavia Flag Day: flagdaymonument.com Batavia Historical Society: 630-406-5274, bataviahistoricalsociety.org Batavia Park District: 630-879-5235, bataviaparks.org Geneva Chamber of Commerce: 630-232-6060, genevachamber.com Geneva Park District: 630-232-4542, genevaparks.org Marquee Youth Stage: 630-762-0354 marqueeyouth.org Norris Cultural Arts Center: 584-7200 norrisculturalarts.com River Corridor Foundation of St. Charles: heartofthefox.com St. Charles Park District: 630-513-6200, stcparks.org University of Illinois Extension: 630-584-6166 web.extension.illinois.edu June/July 2019
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Photo: Yves Bougardier
Music
TriCities—Concerts in the Park & River Rhapsody
Coco Montoya takes the stage June 15 at Blues on the Fox.
All shows start at 7pm Enjoy live music and fresh air with free, outdoor concerts in the TriCities, presented by the park districts. St. Charles’ Lincoln Park—Concerts in the Park June 6, Sushi Roll; June 13, Rosie & the Rivets; June 20, Ethan Bell Band; June 27, Feel Good Party Band; July 4, Shout Out (at Pottawatomie Park); July 11, Strung Out; July 18, Pirates Over 40; July 25, Mike Zabrin’s Funktastic; Aug. 1, Howard & the White Boys; Aug. 8, 7th Heaven; and Aug. 15, Final Say. Geneva’s River Park—Concerts in the Park July 10, June’s Got the Cash; July 17, The Saturday June Band; July 24, Mr. Myers; and July 31, The StingRays. Batavia Riverwalk—River Rhapsody Concert Series June 12, Brass from the Past; June 19, The Beach Bum Band; June 26; The Ethan Bell Band; July 3, StingRay; July 17, Cadillac Groove; July 24, Billy Croft & the 5-Alarm; and July 31, Final Say.
The 23rd Aurora Blues on the Fox Festival RiverEdge Park, Aurora—June 14, 6pm & 15, 2pm Blues greats, Taj Mahal and Robert Randolph and the Family Band, are headlining for the popular festival this year. Ronnie Baker Brooks, Coco Montoya, Ana Popovic and Jamiah Rogers will also take the stage. Celebrate the history of blues in Downtown Aurora, which goes as far back as the 1930’s with recordings taken at the Leland Hotel.
Presley, Lewis & Cash June 21, 7:30pm—Batavia Fine Arts Center, Batavia Memphis is alive with a new genre of music, and the papers are calling it Rock & Roll. Four men stand at the center: Elvis Presley (The King), Carl Perkins, Jerry Lee Lewis and Johnny Cash. Enjoy their music in an intimate musical session where the true spirit of rock lives again.
49th Annual Granquist Music Competition June 22, 8am-5pm—Geneva High School, Geneva Presented by the Geneva Chamber of Commerce, this music competition will showcase the amazing aptitudes of local musicians, ages 5 and up. Concert, Performance and Olympic levels will compete throughout the day as part of Swedish Days.
Leo Fron June 29, 8pm-11pm—Vintage 53, St. Charles Acoustic solo performer Leo Fron will play classic to current covers as well as originals. Enjoy his music in the wine bar’s intimate setting.
Fox Valley Concert Band Summer Concert July 22, 3pm—The Holmstad, Batavia The Fox Valley Concert Band is in its 36th season this year, and they had a successful concert in Waterman recently. They will present a second Summer Concert in the TriCity area for all to enjoy; no tickets necessary.
Go: St. Charles Park District: 630-513-6200 stcparks.org Geneva Park District: 630-232-4542 genevaparks.org Batavia Park District: 630-879-5235 bataviaparks.org RiverEdge Park: 630-896-6666 riveredgeaurora.com Batavia Fine Arts Center: 630-937-8930 bataviafineartscentre.org Geneva Chamber of Commerce: 630-232-6060 genevachamber.com Vintage 53: 630-549-0423 vintage53.com Fox Valley Concert Band: fvcb.org
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Theater
This Magic Moment—Paramount Theatre, Aurora June 12–13, 7pm Midwest Edge Dance Academy will proudly present its dance show, This Magic Moment, filled with amazing pieces and talent like you have never seen. The dancers recently received a High Gold award for one of the show’s pieces at the L.A. Dance Magic Competition in Chicago. Don’t miss this all-ages show that will have you entranced by the magic of dance.
Shakespeare in the Park—Island Park, Geneva July 6, 6pm Geneva’s popular event, Shakespeare in the Park, will be coming back this summer with Twelfth Night. In the Shakespearian comedy, Viola and her twin brother Sebastian survive a shipwreck but never reunite, so they assume the worst. Viola disguises herself as a man to get a job serving the Duke, Orsino, and Sebastian arrives with no knowledge of the situation, unfolding in a humorous love triangle. See this witty, free play presented by the Geneva Cultural Arts Commission and members of Stone Soup Shakespeare.
Shakespeare returns to Island Park in Geneva on July 6.
Seussical—Hemmens Cultural Center, Elgin— July 12–13 & 19–20, 7:30pm and July 14 & 21, 3pm Elgin Summer Theatre’s Up and Coming Theatre Company will present Seussical, a musical extravaganza for families and all lovers of Dr.Suess. The play will have all of your favorite characters coming to life on stage; the Cat in the Hat and Horton the Elephant are just a few. Feel immersed in the Jungle of Nool, Circus McGurkus and the invisible world of the Whos with vibrant sets and colorful costumes in this exciting musical.
Go:
Meet the Cat in the Hat and Horton at Hemmens in July.
Paramount Theatre: 630-896–6666 paramountaurora.com Geneva Cultural Arts Commission: 630-938-4530 geneva.il.us/114/Cultural-Arts-Commission Hemmens Cultural Center: 847-931-5900 hemmens.org
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A community connected in past and present
W
Last Look
hen you visit the Post Office in downtown Geneva, you will see a mural that depicts the town in its past, but its togetherness and exuberance is as evident in the painting as it is today. Children play, parents work hard, the community labors as a team to enjoy a meal in the park. While its painter, Manuel Bromberg, may not know exactly which park he was in when he got inspired to paint Fish Fry in the Park, it does not matter. Every park in Geneva brings families and friends together. Every event shows how connected the community truly is. Each moment in time captures the joy of being in Geneva. Bromberg saw what he referred to as the “the infinite variety of life” that moment he watched the picnic, and it fascinated him. Commissioned by the Section of Fine Arts in 1940, Bromberg painted the mural as his third Post Office mural. He used 200 eggs to make paint from egg whites and coloring, an old formula and also what gives the mural a rustic look. Three years later, he was appointed to Chairman of the War Department Art Advisory Board as an official war artist.
He painted in England, France and Germany. He even met Pablo Picasso during his tour. In 1944, he was awarded the Legion of Merit for his exceptional work. His remarkable life continues as he celebrated his 102nd birthday on March 6. The Geneva History Museum held a long-awaited mural dedication ceremony and a birthday celebration for him at the Post Office. Mayor Kevin Burns was there and proclaimed March 6 Manuel Bromberg Day. A large group from the community attended. They learned about Bromberg’s life and asked questions about the mural. Many even wrote notes thanking him, and he was beyond appreciative. “After receiving notes from those who attended the dedication, he personally signed cards with a picture of the mural to each person who wrote him a note,” shared Terry Emma, Executive Director of the Geneva History Museum. With Geneva residents brought together again, in celebration of his work and life, Bromberg was able to see what he saw almost 80 years ago at the fish fry—a community still full of life, still connected. Learn more about Bromberg and see the span of his work from around the world at manuelbromberg.com.
Go: Geneva History Museum: 630-232-4951 genevahistorymuseum.org
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