TriCities
August/September 2018
Serving the TriCities area Batavia | Geneva | St. Charles
Magazine
Move your body Good habits can change your life Savory summer entertaining Every homeowner contributes to community
Festival of the Vine—Geneva ArtsFest—St. Charles Block Party—Batavia
POSTAL CUSTOMER
PERMIT NO. 48 ST. CHARLES, IL 60174
TriCities Magazine 28 S. Water St., Suite 301 Batavia, IL 60510
PAID
PRSRT STD ECRWSS U.S. POSTAGE
4  KaneNeighbors.com
TriCities Magazine
In this issue
Coming in October…
Welcome......................................................................................... 8
Scandal! The Fox Valley has an interesting past Here are the scandalous stories that everyone wants to read, but no one wants to tell. Some of the best Kane County historians have dug deep to uncover a titillating past in the TriCities.
Move your body...........................................................................12 Exercise is medicine…the benefits of exercise are limitless. Just 10 minutes three times a day fights cardiovascular disease, obesity, decreases the risk of osteoporosis and prevents cognitive decline
Are you brave enough to advertise?
Insights.................................10
See more at KaneNeighbors.com For advertising in TriCities Magazine call 630-995-3482
If you repeat a task for approximately 28 days, the task becomes a habit
Food..................................... 20
Savory summer entertaining with an island infusion 6 KaneNeighbors.com
TriCities Magazine
Real Estate......................... 22 Your home has an impact on your community
Music................................... 28 Downtown St. Charles is live Wednesday and Friday evenings through August
More UnPlug........................................................................................24 Theater........................................................................................29 Last Look....................................................................................30 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.
August/September 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 7
Welcome I am going to walk the flights of stairs to my office ten times while I write this. The offices of Neighbors Magazines are on the third floor of a historic 19th century building. No elevators. I actually love walking up the steep flights of…I’ll be right back…42 stairs. My goal is to go up and down ten times a day. That was No. 2. These stairs have three benefits. One, they raise my heart rate. Two, I have to do them every day. Three, coldcall sales people hate them. Our feature story this month is about moving your body, one of the best secrets to a long and healthy life. For those of us blessed with the ability to walk, there is no excuse. Hold on. No. 3 (my staff is witnessing this and keeping me honest). The important thing is to keep moving, every day. If you are lucky enough to have some stairs to climb, that’s even better. Nos. 4 & 5 (twice in a row is good. I can feel it in my legs). There are all sorts of organizations and businesses in the TriCities area dedicated to your health through exercise. The Park Districts and Forest Preserve of Kane County have set aside thousands of acres for your walking pleasure. Even bowling at Funway is a form of exercise. Opportunities to move are as close as your front door. Step through it and take a walk…. No. 6 (working up a little sweat). Our editor, Ben, had to leave just now to walk his dog. How can I say no? No. 7 ACSM recommends cardiovascular activity 3–5 days a week for 20–60 minutes. I’ll have to give up some of the 24 to 34 hours a week I spend online and in front of the TV (average time per American, depending on what study you read). No. 8 (50.26 seconds…a little under 5 minutes total so far). Some say the best way to get into a walking habit is to walk with friends or a group. They are probably right, although I prefer to just walk with my wife. Nos. 9 & 10 (that felt good!). You are welcome to visit us anytime and experience for yourself how lucky we are to be on a third floor walk-up. Thank you BEI for these 42 stairs. Every flight is a contribution to my health. Here’s to your health and long life! Tim & Kate Sullivan, Publishers PS. Next issue: Scandal! The stories everyone wants to hear, but no one wants to tell. 8 KaneNeighbors.com
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 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.”
August/September 2018
KaneNeighbors.com 9
Habits: a core process of mind and body
Insights
by Scott R. Lebin
If you repeat a task for approximately 28 days, the task becomes a habit
10 KaneNeighbors.com
It has been established that if you repeat a task for approximately 28 days, you will get to the point where you no longer think about what needs to be done; the task becomes a habit. Those who brush their teeth and floss regularly don’t have to give it much thought. After breakfast and just before you go to bed might be the two times a day that you automatically take care of your teeth. You probably know that regular brushing and flossing have at least three major benefits: gum health, teeth health and heart health. Recently, I had the good fortune to
hear Admiral William McRaven talk about Navy Seals training. He talked about the first lesson in Seal’s training, which is to place the pillow exactly in the center head of the bed (the inspection involved using a tape measure to make sure it was in the center), fold the corners in a specific tight way and fix the top of the bed with not a wrinkle in it. If it wasn’t exact, the bed was torn up and had to be made again. He discussed that it was a life lesson because the first thing in training he learned was to complete a detailed, exact task. He could begin his day knowing that he achieved the first TriCities Magazine
goal of the day. The point of this training is simple: if the recruiter can’t make his bed and follow the little details, how can the Seals expect him to carry out more complex tasks? We begin to take pride in the little tasks we do well, and this accomplishment leads to other habits and new successes. The idea of developing a habit is also important when a person is developing exercise routines. Physical activity is itself a part of a healthy lifestyle. However, the word exercise means that we will extend physical activity so that we can achieve high capacity actions that work to improve our whole cardio-vascular system. Thus breathing, muscle activity and brain function are all pushed to a high physical performance level. There are many ways to accomplish this kind of healthy exercise. Games, to some degree, can be an enjoyable way of getting needed exercise. Tennis, hockey, basketball, volleyball and swimming are the kinds of activities people can enjoy. However, to be good in these activities participants often add weight lifting, running and other exercises to get the heart rate up and muscles conditioned so they can compete
at a more competitive level. The problem with exercise is that it often is not enjoyable. It takes effort to physically push the body to a highperformance level. “I don’t like to sweat,” “I don’t enjoy exercising” and “weight lifting is difficult” are all statements people make who avoid exercise. It separates them from those who do work out even though those who exercise still must put up with all the same negative aspects of conditioning. The reason that those who develop the habit of regular exercise do it is that they like the results. So, if you want to live a healthy life, if you want to avoid illness, if you want to live longer and if you are results oriented, you will overcome the negatives and create a habit for yourself: the habit of a regular exercise program. The first step will be to start a program of regular exercise, and with persistence for at least 28 days you will be able to make your program a habit. Although the daily grind of exercise might require some fortitude, it eventually will become a habit; I am sure you will enjoy the results.
Clean Pest Solutions Clean Pest Solutions— the best and safest way to eliminate pests Clean Pest Solutions is a new Integrated Pest Management company in the Fox River Valley area dedicated to personalized service. Integrated Pest Management combines several methods to prevent and manage pest problems without harming you, your family, or the environment. They offer one-time treatments and recurring monthly and quarterly service based on needs and requests. The company pinpoints areas of pest activity and treats those rather than use the broadcast spray and pray methods of other competitors. Clean Pest Solutions treats ants, bees, wasps, mice, rats, mosquitoes, termites, cockroaches, ticks and 80 other pests. Monitoring, mechanical and biological controls ensure ecologically safe and effective use of the most advanced products. Mention this article and Clean Pest Solutions will take 20% off your first treatment. 630-621-3333 info@cleanpestsolutions.com cleanpestsolutions.com
August/September 2018
KaneNeighbors.com 11
Move your body by Ben Scott
12  KaneNeighbors.com
TriCities Magazine
August/September 2018
KaneNeighbors.com 13
I
n 1960, President John F. Kennedy penned an article for Sports Illustrated in which he extolled the value of physical activity for Americans of all ages, writing “physical fitness is not only one of the most important keys to a healthy body; it is the basis of dynamic and creative intellectual activity.” Nearly half a century later, Kennedy’s words continue to resonate as the new science of exercise and the brain has reaffirmed this age-old wisdom—it’s vitally important to move your body. To learn about the importance of movement and its physical and mental health benefits, we talked to Emily Heller, EdD, ACSM, CPT, instructor of Kinesiology and Health Education at Waubonsee Community College (WCC). Dr. Heller has been a certified personal trainer for ten years and worked in WCC’s Total Fitness Center as a fitness specialist prior to teaching full-time. “The benefits of exercise are limitless,” Dr. Heller confirmed. “For example, physical activity just three days a week decreases your risk of cardiovascular disease (which is the number one killer of people who live in the United States), type 2 diabetes, premature death from all causes, facilitates weight loss, decreases one’s risk of osteoporosis and helps you fall asleep faster and sleep better at night—leaving you to feel more rested in
the morning.” Indeed, in 2007, the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) and the American Medical Association (AMA) recognized the comprehensive health benefits of exercise, launching a co-initiative called Exercise Is Medicine (EIM). This initiative encouraged primary care physicians and other health care providers to include physical activity in medical treatment and patient care for all individuals. “If there was a pill that conferred all of the benefits of physical activity, physicians and insurance companies would figure out a way to make sure every individual had access to this ‘miracle drug,’” Dr. Heller said. “But since there is not, initiatives such as EIM further reiterate the importance of incorporating physical activity in one’s life.” Regarding just how much exercise people should get, ACSM recommendations include cardiovascular activity three–five days a week for 20–60 minutes. Health benefits can also be gained from multiple shorter sessions throughout the day; 10 minutes of physical activity three times a day provides significant health benefits and could include walking from your car to the office and taking the stairs when you arrive to work—the key is to walk at a pace that increases your heart rate.
For children, the ACSM recommends 60 minutes of physical activity every day, an especially critical prescription in 2018 when one in six children are considered to be overweight or obese. “This is alarming as this trend continues to increase,” Dr. Heller said. “However, there are plenty of activities for children to reach the recommended 60 minutes, such as tag, biking, swimming, riding on a scooter and pogo sticking (which is one of the best activities for bone strengthening in children).” For parents who want to keep their kids moving locally, Prairie Gymnastics Club in Batavia offers preschool gymnastics for children ages two–six, recreational gymnastics and tumbling for children ages six and up, and competitive team gymnastics. “It’s important to teach children healthy exercise habits early on so they continue those habits into adulthood,” added Prairie Gymnastics Club owner Jillian Knight. “Participation in gymnastics helps children meet their daily exercise needs. It also has many other mental and physical benefits including increased self-esteem, cognitive functioning, coordination and strength development.” Regarding strength training, the ACSM recommends that children should continued on page 16
Funway Funway—a great place for fun and exercise Any type of exercise, including bowling, can lower your risk of stroke, heart attack and diabetes. Funway has fun activities indoors and outdoors for all ages: bowling, laser tag, bumper cars, roller skating, go kart racing, bumper boats and water wars, batting cages, Western Trails Mini Golf. So, if you want to have a lot of fun and get some exercise, get over to Funway. Funway Entertainment Center 1335 S. River Street, Batavia Funway.com • 630-879-8717
14 KaneNeighbors.com
TriCities Magazine
August/September 2018
KaneNeighbors.com 15
continued from page 14
not engage in any weight training activity until their epiphyseal growth plates in their bones have been fully formed, which occurs in the late teens. Adults, on the other hand, should lift weights two– three days a week, with two to four sets and eight–twelve repetitions. This can be achieved with the use of dumbbells, machines or body-weight exercises (i.e., planks, push-ups or wall sits). Further, adults should wait 48 hours in between weight training sessions to allow muscles the time they need to repair. After exercise, it’s ideal to engage in static training, which involves slowly stretching your muscles to the point of tension, holding for 10–30 seconds and repeating two to four times. Flexibility training helps decrease back pain, improves balance and prevents injuries. Waubonsee’s Total Fitness Center 16 KaneNeighbors.com
is a great resource for both students and community members who want to keep their body in motion. Total Fitness Center services include personal training, fitness assessments, customized workout programs and body fat analysis in a relaxed and fun atmosphere. Furthermore, the Total Fitness Center offers many group fitness classes such as small group training, TRX® classes, yoga and Tai chi. Of course, the TriCities offers a plethora of options for outdoor recreation up and down the Fox, while community park districts facilitate programs that keep residents engaged in physical activity. “Eating well, keeping active and engaging with the community is vital to living a healthy, enriched life. The park district understands this need, which is why we provide programming options for ages six weeks old all the way up to 102!,” said Katie Drum, Director of Marketing
& Public Relations for the Batavia Park District. “Whatever your passion is, there are many program offerings to get your body in motion.” Among its programming, the Batavia Park District has Active Adults classes, dance classes, sports classes, fitness classes and nature activities with a variety of programs for the entire family. Likewise, the Geneva Park District has many unique programs for those who want to get moving outdoors. “The Geneva Park District impacts lives beyond the playground,” said Traci Wicks, Director of Marketing & Public Relations. “We encourage people to explore the 69 miles of trails throughout Geneva. The Geneva Park District also offers opportunities through a variety of athletic and fitness programs, including individualized personal training and nutritional counseling.” On Aug. 11, the Geneva Park TriCities Magazine
District will hold a free fitness demo day highlighting several new offerings coming this fall. The latest seasonal offerings and interactive maps are also available online at genevaparks.org. And in St. Charles, the park district can help people “move their bodies” by providing multiple health and wellness activities at several different locations. Ande Masoncup, Assistant Superintendent of Recreation for the St. Charles Park District, touted the many excellent upcoming SCPD programs, including Norris Recreation Center group fitness classes, a Sunset Cider Stroll, TRX® classes, a Running 101 program and an adult beginner/advanced beginner tennis program. For folks who don’t like traditional exercises, Dr. Heller recommended people incorporate physical activity into their daily routine instead of viewing it as something they have to do. “In Copenhagen, Denmark, for example, one in three adults ride their bike to work every day. Although the U.S. does not have the same infrastructure that supports safe bike riding in all cities, there are other possibilities to be active,” said Dr. Heller. “If you work in a building that has multiple floors, commit to yourself that every Tuesday and Thursday, when you first arrive to work, you will take the stairs instead of the elevator. Once that becomes routine, add one additional day a week to take the stairs in the morning. When you are ready to take it to the next level, commit to taking the stairs down at the end of the day. Importantly, listen to your body as you are the number one expert when it comes to your abilities. If you feel that you are not active enough, take one small step at a time so that you can reach your goals.” Dancing provides another nontraditional exercise opportunity for people who want to move their body without hitting the gym, and LUX Dance Studio in St. Charles offers a number of classes in a variety of dance styles. “Taking dance lessons for exercise August/September 2018
is a great low to medium impact way of burning calories while maintaining/ increasing flexibility and coordination,” explained Ben Blekfeld, dance instructor and co-owner of LUX with Debbie Wiess. “What separates taking dance lessons from other forms of exercise is that partner dancing also creates selfesteem and confidence both physically and socially. Whether learning with your partner, or as an individual with a professional instructor, students find that it is a form of exercise that gets them moving and yet keeps them motivated and interested.” Blekfeld added that dancing is a great compliment to other exercise regimes as an activity that inherently creates and enhances body consciousness and body awareness in a positive way. Other fun cardio workouts to raise your heart rate could include activities like walking, biking and swimming. For her part, Dr. Heller said she enjoys riding her bike for exercise and recreation and added that she bikes to work every day outside the winter months. “Biking to work allows me the perfect opportunity to mentally prepare what my day will look like,” she said. “Then biking home, I plan what I will do until I have to pick my kids up from school. For me, biking is the ultimate “me-time” that I usually do not get any other part of the day.” Indeed, exercising can also be a great opportunity for reflection, and in an article for verywellfit.com, personal trainer Page Waehner advocates for mindfulness during physical activity to relieve stress
and enhance workouts. “When you aren’t focused on what you’re doing, you may lose that sense of satisfaction for a job well done and, not only that, your workouts may not be as effective,” Waehner writes. According to Waehner, one of the benefits of “staying in the moment” includes a stronger connection to your body, wherein focus on each exercise, the muscles you’re working and what
KaneNeighbors.com 17
you’re actually accomplishing generates a better workout. Towards this goal of mindfulness, Waehner recommends having a purpose for each workout (e.g., to strengthen specific muscles, work on a specific area of fitness or to burn a certain number of calories). It’s also important to reflect on why you made exercising a priority and how your workout will help you (e.g., you’ll have more energy for your 18 KaneNeighbors.com
day, you’ll sleep better after your workout and exercising will help decrease your level of stress). With nearly endless benefits for body, mind and spirit, it’s no wonder fitness culture has seen a resurgence in American life. Unfortunately, some physical conditions make it difficult for people to stay active. For instance, nearly 30 percent of American adults experience
some sort of vein disorder, with varicose veins falling at the top of the list. Varicose veins can cause individuals to suffer from throbbing legs, restlessness in the legs, leg cramps and general discomfort. Fortunately, Gilvydis Vein Clinic in Geneva offers minimally invasive leg vein treatment options, so individuals need not suffer from the discomfort that comes with varicose veins. “After vein treatment, individuals are able to return to more active lifestyles, without having to deal with the pain and inconvenience that often comes with varicose veins,” said Dr. Rimas Gilvydis. This is good news, because for older adults, recent research has linked regular exercise with less depression, better memory and quicker learning. Studies also suggest exercise is, as of now, one of the best ways to prevent or delay the onset of Alzheimer’s disease; positive results were presented at the 2015 Alzheimer’s Association International Conference of three randomized controlled trials of aerobic exercise in Alzheimer’s disease, vascular cognitive impairment (VCI) and mild cognitive impairment (MCI). “There are many research studies being done on the benefits of exercise on cognitive health, and preliminary results indicate that physical exercise, especially aerobic exercise, can play a significant role in preventing or slowing dementia and cognitive decline,” said Liz Wiggins, MS, OT/L, CDP Executive Director at Elderday Center, Inc.” At Elderday Center in Batavia, clients have access to a full gym and have the opportunity to walk laps around the gym several times a day between other planned activities. Elderday also has a group exercise class each morning and clients play active games like bags, balloon volleyball and Wii bowling at least twice a week. Wiggins added that exercise has also helped Elderday clients presenting depression symptoms. “In 2017, 74% of Elderday clients improved their scores on a standardized TriCities Magazine
geriatric depression scale after participating in our program, and we attribute this in part to maintaining physical activity.” Regular exercise also eases depression and anxiety for people of all ages by releasing feel-good endorphins, natural cannabis-like brain chemicals and other natural brain chemicals that enhance feelings of well-being (mayoclinic.org). According to an article published by Harvard Medical School, low-intensity exercise sustained over time spurs the release of proteins which cause nerve cells
to grow and make new connections; nerve cell growth in the hippocampus (the region of the brain that regulates mood) helps relieve depression. Indeed, the holistic value of physical activity cannot be overstated, though Dr. Heller understands why many people still struggle with motivation. “The hardest part of a new exercise program is getting started,” Dr. Heller acknowledged. “Although the benefits of exercise are clear, applying practice to theory can be difficult. Some strategies can include
starting an exercise program with a friend or family member and recording your physical activity in a journal or with an app. Making yourself accountable and tracking your progress can be a great motivational tool to help you reach your fitness goals.” Whatever your age and whatever your passion, there are so many reasons and ways to stay active, whether in your living room, at the gym, at a park or out on the trails along the Fox River. So, don’t wait—start moving your body today.
Go: Waubonsee Community College: 630-466-7900, waubonsee.edu Waubonsee Kinesiology program: Contact Emily Heller at 630-466-2523, eheller@waubonsee.edu Prairie Gymnastics Club: 630-406-6803, prairiegym.com Batavia Park District: 630-879-5235, bataviaparks.org Geneva Park District: 630-232-4542, genevaparks.org St. Charles Park District: 630-513-6200, stcparks.org Norris Recreation Center: 630-377-1405, norrisrec.org Elderday Center: 630-761-9750, elderdaycenter.org LUX Dance Studio: 630-940-2586, luxdancestudio.com Gilvydis Vein Clinic: 815-844-8607, gilvydisvein.com August/September 2018
KaneNeighbors.com 19
Savory summer entertaining
Photo: Getty Images
Food
Island infusion for warm-weather festivities
20  KaneNeighbors.com
(Family Features) Flavorful foods and cold drinks are the focal points of just about any summer gathering. Create a party atmosphere that can stand out by adding a bit of island infusion to both bites and beverages so your warm-weather soiree can soar to new heights. To help add that island spark, an ingredient like bitters provides a potent flavor made from botanicals like aromatic herbs, bark, roots and fruit. While known for their ability to balance countless cocktails, it may come as a surprise that bitters are regarded by some chefs as a pantry staple, adding real depth of flavor to a variety of dishes. Bitters can be added to classic and contemporary cocktails
and a range of cuisines to create tastetempting creations. Much like vanilla extract, when cooked, the alcohol in bitters evaporates, so bitters-infused recipes can be enjoyed by the whole family at your next backyard barbecue or patio party. Center your spread around a summer favorite like Pulled-Pork Sliders with Bitters, a tangy Caribbean twist on a classic dish featuring a spicy chili rub. Coupled with a vinegar-based sauce dashed with Angostura aromatic bitters, an unmistakable culinary and cocktail essential made with the same secret recipe since 1824, the flavorful sliders make for a crowd-pleasing main course. TriCities Magazine
These tasty foods paired with hot temperatures call for cooling off with inventive bitters-forward drink recipes like the Queen’s Park Swizzle, Angostura’s signature Trinidadian cocktail. This drink balances the art of the swizzle with the tastes of tiki to provide guests with a refreshing beverage option. Whether you’re an aspiring home
chef, an amateur bartender or anything in between, you can elevate summer entertaining with bitters to complement an array of ingredients for exceptional entertaining all summer long. Find more summertime food and drink recipes to savor at AngosturaBitters.com.
Pulled-Pork Sliders with Bitters Servings: approximately 14 small sandwiches Chili Rub: To make chili rub: Stir together 2 tablespoons aromatic bitters, chili powder and salt; Angostura aromatic bitters let stand 10 minutes. 2 tablespoons chili powder 1 teaspoon salt Cut pork shoulder across grain into 3–3½ pounds boneless 1½–2-inch thick slices; trim excess fat. pork shoulder roast If needed, cut into chunks to remove 1 tablespoon cooking oil some fat. Bitters Sauce: 1 can (15 ounces) unseasoned Rub meat with chili mixture. In 8-quart tomato sauce pot or 9–10-inch wide, high-sided ½ cup packed dark brown sugar saute pan with lid, heat oil. Add meat 2 tablespoons Nature’s Intent and brown on both sides, about 15 apple cider vinegar minutes total. Remove meat and place 1 tablespoon on plate; keep warm. Angostura aromatic bitters 1 tablespoon chili powder To make bitters sauce: Combine tomato 3 large cloves garlic, chopped sauce, brown sugar, apple cider 1–2 tablespoons cornstarch vinegar, aromatic bitters, chili powder (optional) and garlic cloves; stir well. Pour into hot, empty pan. Simmer 5 minutes, 14 small slider buns stirring and scraping bottom of pan. Return meat to pan; spoon sauce over meat. Cover and cook 1 hour and 15 minutes on low, rearranging meat halfway through cooking. Transfer meat to plate; cover with foil to keep warm. To thicken sauce, if desired: Let sauce cool in pan 5 minutes then whisk in cornstarch. Bring to boil; continue to cook and whisk until slightly thickened. To serve: Pull meat apart with two forks or fingers. Serve warm on buns, drizzled with sauce.
August/September 2018
Queen’s Park Swizzle Makes: 1 cocktail 12–14 mint leaves 1 ounce fresh lime juice 1 ounce Demerara simple syrup crushed ice 2 ounces Caribbean rum 6–8 dashes Angostura aromatic bitters mint sprig, for garnish In highball glass, muddle mint leaves in lime juice and simple syrup, then fill glass with dry, crushed ice. Pour rum over crushed ice and swizzle well until glass is ice cold and frosted. Pack glass with more crushed ice and top with aromatic bitters. Garnish with mint sprig. KaneNeighbors.com 21
Real Estate
Having an impact by Deb Gurley
How much of an impact does your home have on your community?
22 KaneNeighbors.com
Did you know that when you buy or sell a home typically there are 26 services involved in a single real estate transaction? Think about the 30 days before and after a real estate transaction has closed. There are many services utilized such as movers, painters, contractors, real estate agents, closing companies, attorneys, inspectors, appraisers, lenders, landscapers, etc. If you are building a brand new home it is estimated the number of subcontractors it takes to build the average single family home is 22. Housing impacts the local economy, as well as the larger national economy. The nation’s gross domestic product (GDP) is measured by how well the economic performance of the country, state or region’s economy is performing. GDP is defined as “the monetary value of all the finished goods and services produced within a country’s borders in a specific time period.” Housing contributes more than 15% on average to the GDP. While the true economic impact of home building varies by community, the figures for a typical metro area are impressive. Home ownership bolsters a community’s treasury through the collection of property taxes. These monies assist in supporting the infrastructure, police and fire protection, education and community programs. Homeownership also offers a variety of social benefits to the owner and their community at large: • Increased civic participation & charitable activity • Better health • Less crime • Higher social capital • Higher student test scores and graduation rates Residential renovations also contribute to the economy through the use of local labor and businesses for goods, as well as permitting and other government-related fees. Every million spent in remodeling generates an estimated $841,000 in private income, estimated $71,000 in government revenue and an average of 11 local jobs. So when buying, selling or renovating your next home, take note…you are personally impacting your local and national economies.
TriCities Magazine
Photo: Batavia MainStreet
Un-Plug
Fun, food and wine at Geneva’s Festival of the Vine Geneva’s Festival of the Vine provides plenty of good wine, good food and good fun for the whole family, Sept. 7–9 downtown Geneva. Taste the autumn bounty while enjoying the flower market, arts & crafts show and live musical entertainment. Sip wines from around the world and sample mouth-watering international specialties prepared by Geneva restaurateurs. Pamper yourself overnight in one of Geneva’s world-class accommodations.
Celebrate Labor Day at the Block Party in downtown Batavia Sept. 2.
Photo: Batavia MainStreet
Head Downtown for the Batavia Block Party & Taste of Batavia, Sun., Sept. 2, 4–9pm. The party comes complete with live music, a Classic Car Cruise Night, Pie Bake Off and dancing. Activities include lawn games and bags, and a kids play area with a bounce house, face painting, balloons and a raffle hosted by River City Church. Walk across the pedestrian bridge or take a stroll across N. Wilson St. and view the Classic Car Show that will line the street connecting N. River St. to the Riverwalk. This year the Block Party will
24 KaneNeighbors.com
blast you into the past with something for everyone.
Enjoy downtown Batavia during Second Fridays Engage with and enjoy downtown Batavia during Second Fridays; a night full of food, art, music, fun and so much more. Second Fridays are an interactive and vibrant experience around downtown Batavia working to compliment the monthly art gallery opening at Water Street Studios. Businesses within the downtown area will offer nontraditional programming in their spaces on every second Friday of the month from 6–9pm. Whether it’s a live performance, crafting demo, a book signing or one of the many other programs being presented around town, there is something for everyone at Second Fridays. The next two Second Fridays events take place Fri., Aug. 10 and Fri., Sept. 14. Visit downtownbatavia.com for a complete list of participating businesses and organizations.
Photo: Geneva Chamber of Commerce
Celebrate Labor Day weekend at the Downtown Batavia Block Party
Back to School Festival at Peck Farm Park Bring the whole family to Peck Farm Park, Sat., Aug. 18, 11am–2pm, and TriCities Magazine
Photo: Geneva Chamber of Commerce
Enjoy good wine, good food and fun at the Festival of the Vine Sept. 7–9.
have one last fun-filled day before school starts. There will be games and activities, nature crafts, a scavenger hunt and Birds of Prey presentation. Hawks Hollow Nature Playground and the Butterfly House will be open for your enjoyment. Food vendors will be on site. 4038 Kaneville Rd., Geneva.
Healing Gardens open to the public in August and September Healing Gardens at Stone Hill Farm in St. Charles is open to the public on
Photo: Geneva Geneva Park District/Facebook
Explore the Butterfly House at the Peck Farm Park Back to School Festival on Aug. 18.
set dates for the purpose of enjoying the natural wooded setting and perennial gardens. The next two opening dates are Sun., Aug. 12 and Sun., Sept. 9. The admission cost is $5 per person and $10 per family. In solidarity and to honor the journey, cancer survivors are free. The August, September and October opening will offer Tai Chi in the Garden from 11:30am–12:30pm led by instructor Jarett Sanchez of Fox Valley Tai Chi. These openings will also offer an optional outdoor Yoga in the Garden class from 1–2pm taught by Nancy May. 37W249 Dean St., St. Charles.
August/September 2018
KaneNeighbors.com 25
Have an authentic farm-to-table dinner at Heritage Prairie Farm Sept. 13.
Check out Alley Art Festival downtown Aurora Alley Art Festival is a local, grassroots outdoor art festival at Water Street Mall in downtown Aurora on Sat., Aug. 25, 12–5pm. It’s a day of fun, music and
art—with over 60 artists. Local musicians will also perform. Alley Art Festival is sponsored by Aurora Downtown and City of Aurora’s Neighborhood Festival Funding.
Truly fresh ingredients make for a delicious evening at the Heirloom Farm Dinner.
hands on a chainsaw and salvaged the bark from the felled tree for the roof. Neighbors have already filled the box, and the library is now open and filled with books. Anyone is welcome to take a book, return the same book or different one, read and enjoy! The Davern’s Giving Tree is located at 307 Woodward Ave., Geneva. Follow the journey of the Little Free Library on Facebook.
New “Giving Tree” library takes root in Geneva When they bought their house in Geneva three years ago, Heather Van Dyck Davern and Stephen Davern knew they’d eventually lose their beloved shagbark hickory tree in their front yard. “Over the last few years we thought and planned for its replacement. We had a million family chats about how we didn’t want to just grind down the stump – Steve came up with an idea for our tree that won us all over.” The Davern’s solution? A “Giving Tree” that acts as their very own little free library. Utilizing a connection on Facebook, the Daverns got their
26 KaneNeighbors.com
Photo: Heritage Prairie Farm
The Heirloom Farm Dinner at Heritage Prairie Farm is a classic dinner full of delicious heirloom fruits and vegetables, Thurs., Sept. 13 at 6pm. From the pepper to the tomato, guests are sure to enjoy a variety of unique dishes as Heritage Prairie Farm prepares for the fall harvest. Don’t miss a timeless farm dinner and a beautiful evening on the farm. Tickets for the Heirloom Farm Dinner are $90 per person. Food, beer, tax and gratuity are included. 2N308 Brundige Rd., Elburn.
Photo: Heather Van Dyck Davern/Facebook
Photo: Heritage Prairie Farm
Heirloom Farm Dinner at Heritage Prairie Farm
TriCities Magazine
Visit the Kane County Flea Market
Hostas and other shade plants are the main attraction at the Northern Illinois Hosta Society Auction and Plant Sale on Sun., Aug. 12, 1:30pm at Hinsdale Community House, 415 W. 8th St., Hinsdale. All plant lovers are invited. Special guest auctioneer is Mark Zilis, one of the foremost hosta experts in the country who will be glad to answer your hosta questions. A wide variety of new and classic hostas and companion plants will be available. A raffle will allow lucky winners to take home a mature hosta.
Photo: Kane County Flea Market/Facebook
The Kane County Flea Market is one of the longest running, best antique and collectible flea markets in the world. Kane County Flea Market is a place for people to come and enjoy the fun of searching and finding the one thing they have sought for ages. Hundreds of dealers set up shop inside, outside and under sheds. The Kane County Flea Market will be open the first weekend of August and September (visit kanecountyfleamarket.com for dates and times). 525 S. Randall Rd., St. Charles.
Northern Illinois Hosta Society hosts auction and plant sale
Go: Batavia Block Party: 630-761-3528, downtownbatavia.com/currentevents/ block-party Batavia Second Fridays: downtownbatavia.com/second-fridays Festival of the Vine: 630-232-6060, genevachamber.com/festival_of_vine Back to School Festival: 630-232-4542, genevaparks.org/special-events/ peck-farm-park-back-to-school-fest Healing Gardens: 630-740-2597, healinggardensatstonehillfarm.com Alley Art Festival: downtownauroran.com/alley-art-festival Heritage Prairie Farm: 630-443-8253, heritageprairiefarm.com/product/ heirloom-farm-dinner The Giving Tree Library: facebook.com/heather.v.davern Kane County Flea Market: 630-377-2252, kanecountyfleamarket.com NIHS Plant Sale: northernillinoishostasociety.org August/September 2018
KaneNeighbors.com 27
Music
Music Matters, Batavia Sat., Aug. 11, All day Join Music Matters for an entire day of live music and family activities. Located at the Peg Bond Center in downtown Batavia, Music Matters has partnered with Batavia Mainstreet and the Batavia Park District to put on a family inclusive, fun-filled summer music festival. Come down in the early afternoon to hear the famed children’s band, Ralph’s World, perform some of their greatest hits. Bring the kids down to check out the bounce house, obstacle course and then over to the cool-off station to get a break from the heat. There will also be a fun art station for kids to create something to take home, sponsored by River City Church. Once the sun sets in the evening, check out the rock headliner, The Bad Examples, take on the main stage. The festival will feature local food favorites such as Fernando’s Street Kitchen, Pal Joey’s as well as Bernie’s Bully Dogs. There will be beer and wine sales into the evening for adults to enjoy.
STC Live!, St. Charles The Bad Examples are headlining the Music Matters SummerFest Aug. 11
Wednesday and Friday evenings through Aug. 31, 5pm STC Live! provides summer fun in downtown St. Charles through the beginning of September. Enjoy live, free entertainment, including jazz combos, vocalists, magicians, dance troops and aspiring bands. A list of all times, locations and performers are available each week on the Downtown St. Charles Partnership Facebook page.
Paramount Theatre, Aurora Happy Together Tour Aug. 17, 8pm Music fans have been enjoying the hits of the sixties and seventies since the Summer of Love and beyond. Relive those cherished moments when the renowned Happy Together Tour 2018, returns to Paramount Theatre. Six headline artists who delivered the biggest hits of the era—The Turtles; Chuck Negron, formerly of Three Dog Night; Gary Puckett & The Union Gap; The Association; Mark Lindsay, former lead singer of Paul Revere & the Raiders; and The Cowsills—promise to make audiences happy together at Paramount.
Enjoy live, free entertainment Wednesday and Friday evenings in downtown St. Charles
The Association (above) and the Cowsills (below) are part of the Happy Together Tour Aug. 17 at the Paramount
Gary Puckett and the Union Gap appear Aug. 17 at the Paramount
Go: Music Matters: 630-406-8742, musicmattersschool.com Paramount Theatre: 630-896-6666, paramountaurora.com STC Live!: 630-443-3967, facebook.com/DowntownStCharlesPartnership
28 KaneNeighbors.com
TriCities Magazine
Sept. 5–Oct. 21, see website for detailed information The Paramount Theatre is kicking off the 2018–19 Broadway season in high fashion with the one and only Elle Woods. A member of UCLA’s Delta Nu sorority, Elle has a seemingly perfect life and perfect future. All she needs is her boyfriend Warner to cement it with a proposal. But her dream life turns into a nightmare when Warner decides to break it off. Heartbroken and in despair, Elle hatches a near-impossible plan to win him back: get into Harvard Law School. 23 E. Galena Blvd., Aurora.
Batavia Fine Arts Centre—Broadway’s Next H!t Musical
Theater
Paramount Theatre—Legally Blonde
Fri., Sept. 14, 7:30pm Broadway’s Next H!t Musical is the only unscripted theatrical awards show. Master improvisers gather made up, hit song suggestions from the audience and create a spontaneous evening of music, humor and laughter. The audience votes for its favorite song and watches as the cast turns it into a full-blown improvised musical—complete with memorable characters, witty dialogue and plot twists galore. 1201 Main St., Batavia.
Steel Beam Theatre—Collected Stories Aug. 17–Sept. 1, see website for detailed information Donald Margulies’s provocative play Collected Stories confronts the prominent short story writer Ruth Steiner with her student turned confidante turned competitor. Featuring Steel Beam regular Crystal Skipworth and SBT Artistic Director Marge Uhlarik-Boller, this funny and fascinating play is a must see. Directed by Larry Boller. 111 W. Main St., St. Charles.
Go: Paramount Theatre: 630-896-6666, paramountaurora.com Batavia Fine Arts Centre: 630-937-8930, bataviafineartscentre.org Steel Beam Theatre: 630-587-8521, steelbeamtheatre.com
August/September 2018
KaneNeighbors.com 29
Last Look
7th Annual ArtsFest Sept. 7–16 2018 The St. Charles Arts Council in partnership with the St. Charles Park District will hold the 7th Annual ArtsFest, a city-wide, all-arts event, Sept. 7–16. This year’s ArtsFest will feature multiple artistic disciplines in venues all over the city including art galleries, music and live theater. Participants and their events include the St. Charles Park District’s Sculpture in the Park, the Downtown St. Charles Partnership’s Jazz Weekend, Steel Beam Photo: Courtesy St. Charles ArtsFest Theater’s newest production Girl’s Night, Feng Biddle’s “Still Life in Blue Room” All Things Art Studio’s Open Studio, was the featured image last year. Marquee Youth Stage’s Playwright’s Festival, Drop-In Improv and Live Music Event. New to the event this year is the ArtsFest Gallery Crawl that includes the St. Charles Arts Council’s ArtsFest Pop-Up Gallery, the St. Charles Public Library’s Mezzanine Gallery Show, Laura Stoecker Photography’s Open Studio/Gallery, “Emotion and Matter” at 116 Gallery, “Stitched Together” at the Fine Line Creative Arts Center, “Verdant Impressions” at the Gallery of Nature at Wasco Nursery and the “Vicinity Show” at Norris Cultural Arts Center. East Side, West Side and Downtown—all over St. Charles residents and visitors will be treated to an incredible array of arts programming. This event is made possible in part by the support of the City of St. Charles Economic and Community Development and the Visitors and Cultural Commission. Claudia Frost views the Vicinity Show at Norris Cultural Arts Photo: Karen Muehlfelt
Photo: Vanessa LaSota
Sharon Schmidt (left) visits the 116 Gallery
Go: stcharlesartscouncil.org/artsfest
30 KaneNeighbors.com
TriCities Magazine