June 2023

Joys of Freedom

Independence Day is always a benchmark in our summer plans. We join in the local parade and salute the flag. We watch in amazement as fireworks burst overhead. And maybe we even slink down to the festival for a quick carnival ride and a funnel cake.

As much as it’s a time for family fun, the Fourth of July weekend is also a time to help our little ones understand what it means to be an American.

Almost 250 years ago, a brave group of colonists stood up to a tyrant king and his oppressive laws as they declared their God-given rights to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.

In time, they formed a government of the people, by the people, for the people that has become a symbol of freedom across the world. It isn’t always perfect, but it is built upon the reality that nobody’s perfect.

Today, we enjoy amazing freedoms thanks to the patriots of 1776 and the soldiers who continue defending the free world.

It’s important to remember that our rights also come with responsibility. Democracy – or, rather, the democratic republic our Founding Fathers gave us – requires vigilance.

We have the right and the imperative to speak freely, without being shouted down. But we also have the responsibility to listen and to use our words wisely.

We have the right to protect ourselves, our families and our property. Yet we also have the responsibility to think about our actions.

We have the right to choose our elected officials, and if we dislike their choices or they abuse their privileges it’s our imperative to participate in their replacement.

It’s our responsibility to find common ground, to respect differences, to topple tyrants and to defend freedom for future generations.

As we all enjoy this Fourth of July, it’s a good time to remember that we should be proud of the freedoms we have in this country. And it’s a good time to remember the example we set for our youngest citizens.

Chris Linden Executive Editor

For the Best Driveway, Hire the Right Team

By Chris Linden, executive editor

Youget what you pay for. The old adage is especially meaningful when it comes to driveways and sidewalks. Shoddy work now will cost you more in the long run, says Mike Pett Sr., owner of Pett Paving in Richmond.

While his firm has spent more than a decade paving and sealcoating driveways, Pett has worked in the industry for more than 30 years and has quoted many jobs from consumers who want the best driveway but don’t always know how to find it.

The trick is to start with a company that cares about its reputation.

Reputable firms start by sending an estimator like Pett Sr. Typically a week after the customer’s call, he visits and takes measurements, evaluates the setting and learns about the customer’s needs. His trained eye also recognizes potential needs, such as a wider driveway to prevent ruts in the yard or thicker asphalt

for heavy equipment like an RV or boat trailer. Within a few days, he’ll offer a nononsense bid that lays out exactly what his firm is offering, what square footage they’ll cover and what they’ll charge. Not all firms are so straightforward.

“My price is my price,” says Pett Sr. “A lot of companies will say something like ‘I’m putting in this much gravel,’ but then they come back later and say, ‘We need to put in extra gravel and it’s going to cost you extra.’ The only reason my price would change is because the scope of work has changed.”

Once the bid is in hand, try to compare apples-to-apples against other bids. First, look at the amount of gravel being used and the thickness of the compressed asphalt, Pett Sr. says. Then, learn about the company’s reputation. Find out if they have a central office you can visit should a problem arise. Ask if

the company is licensed and insured, and ask for references to satisfied customers. Reputable companies are eager to share. Pett Sr. prides himself on a no-hassle bidding process. Where some companies apply pressure, Pett Sr. believes a quality bid speaks for itself.

“Right now, we’re averaging about seven to nine days for an estimate,” he says. “It’s worth the wait, because we have fair pricing and quality work. And we’ll always communicate.” ❚

Pett Paving is located at 3790 E. Solon Road, in Richmond, (815) 675-0647.

Humility, Not Hubris

Many things seem murky to us, in scripture, but some are very clear. One of the clearest is God’s view of arrogance.

In hundreds of verses throughout the Old and New Testaments, God condemns arrogance and exalts humility. Indeed, it was Lucifer’s pride that got him kicked out of Heaven. God told him:

“Since your vast business planning filled you with violent intent from top to bottom, you sinned, so I cast you away as defiled from the mountain of God ... Your heart grew arrogant because of your beauty; you annihilated your own wisdom because of your splendor. Then I threw you to the ground in the presence of kings, giving them a good look at you!”

(Ezekiel 28:16-19, ISV)

Proverbs 11:2 tells us, “When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with the humble is wisdom.”

King David, the only human God referred to as “a man after my own heart,” (I Sam. 13:14 & Acts 13:22), expressed humility. “O Lord, my heart is not lifted up; my eyes are not raised too high; I do not occupy myself with things too great and too marvelous for me.” (Psalm 131:1)

Jeremiah 9:23 tells us, “... Let not the wise man boast in his wisdom, let not the mighty man boast in his might, let not the rich man boast in his riches …”

Jesus told his followers in Luke 14:11 (ESV): “For everyone who exalts himself will be humbled, and he who humbles himself will be exalted.” When his disciples argued over which of them was greatest, Jesus told them: “If anyone would be first, he must be last of all and servant of all.” (Mark 9:35)

Paul instructs, in Philippians 2:3: “Do nothing from rivalry or conceit, but in humility count others more significant than yourselves. Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others. Have this mind among yourselves, which is yours in Christ Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but made himself nothing, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men.”

And in James 4:6: “God opposes the proud, but gives grace to the humble.”

How should we view pride? “So be imitators of God, as his dear children. Live lovingly, just as the Messiah also loved us and gave himself for us as an offering and sacrifice, a fragrant aroma to God.” ❚ – Janine

Pumilia

A Summer of Song at Music by the Lake

By Steven Bonifazi, assistant editor

If you’re looking for an unforgettable experience, look no further than Music by the Lake. Nestled against the backdrop of Geneva Lake, this outdoor music series weaves together a tapestry of engaging events and breathtaking natural beauty at George Williams College (GWC) of Aurora University.

“For the past 22 years, it’s been a summer tradition,” says Tom McReynolds, assistant vice president of GWC. “It’s really a part of the social calendar of the lake.”

The season’s kickoff came on June 17 with Linda Eder, who stole the show in Broadway’s “Jekyll & Hyde.” Eder was joined by jazz piano virtuoso Billy Stritch, who served as Liza Minnelli’s musical director and confidant.

Justin Roberts & the Not Ready for Naptime Players visit Music by the Lake

June 25. This author of three children’s books brings two decades of experience in an afternoon appearance that’s dedicated to children and their families.

On July 8, welcome award-winning country music icon Martina McBride, who has more than 23 million album sales, 20 Top 10 singles and six charttopping No. 1 hits.

Then, the Lake Geneva Symphony Orchestra returns on July 16. Conductor David Anderson leads a musical journey from Broadway’s “Chicago” to Frank Sinatra’s “New York, New York,” with additional stops in Oklahoma, California and other spots.

Classic rock band The Guess Who takes the stage on July 22. Best known for their 1970 album “American Woman,” the legendary Canadians promise a mix of early hits and newer tunes.

Finally, step back in time with BritBeat, a Beatles tribute band, on July 29. The group’s attention to detail transports audiences back to the musical zenith of Paul, John, George and Ringo.

“It’s a very intimate venue and you get that proximity to the action that you wouldn’t get in a huge arena or theater,” says McReynolds. “And you can’t beat the setting.” ❚

To purchase tickets for Music by the Lake, visit musicbythelake.com or call (262) 245-8501.

(Music by the Lake photo)

Why Recovery is Faster After Joint Replacement

By Stephanie N. Grimoldby

People

who are experiencing joint pain don’t want a sedentary lifestyle, so they may be cautious when considering joint replacement. It’s important to remember, though, that the field has advanced tremendously over the past decade. Parts are built to last longer, operations are designed to be less invasive, and recovery is now faster than ever before.

“People are very health care savvy these days; they know what they want,” says Dr. Marc Angerame, a fellowshiptrained orthopedic surgeon at Barrington’s Illinois Bone and Joint Institute and Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital. “And joint replacement is something that’s going to allow people to live their lives.”

Long before someone goes under the knife, a specialist like Angerame will try to ease the pain of an aching joint through nonsurgical methods. Antiinflammatories, cortisone injections

and physical therapy can help to delay a surgical procedure. But when pain persists despite treatment, more-drastic measures become inevitable.

For knees, that involves removing the damaged surfaces of the knee joint and resurfacing with new components, which typically include a tibial (shin bone) component; femoral (thigh bone) component; and patellar (kneecap) component.

Similarly, in a hip replacement the damaged bone and cartilage are replaced with artificial components to re-create the ball and socket of the original joint.

“The plastic itself has gotten much more resilient,” Angerame says. “Patients shouldn’t, according to data, have to go back to the operating room in 10 to 15 years for a redo. We’re expecting a much longer longevity.”

Meanwhile, robotic-assisted surgical techniques are reducing the amount of

tissue that’s affected. MRI and CT scans are making it easier to align the new joint, and anesthetic applications are making it easier for a patient to start walking the day of their operation.

“You’re up and walking hours after the operation because our pain management is better,” he says. “How the surgery is done – the efficiency – is better, leading to less pain. Recovery is faster.” ❚

Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital is located at 450 W. Hwy. 22 in Barrington, (847) 381-0123.

75th Fair is Cause to Celebrate in McHenry Co.

By Chris Linden, executive editor

For many people, the county fair marks a special part of summer that’s worth savoring and remembering. Considering this year marks the McHenry County Fair’s 75th anniversary, there’s sure to be even more worth remembering.

This year’s action-packed schedule, which runs Aug. 1-6, is filled with many favorites and a few surprises, too.

“We like to say we are, in many ways, an old-time country fair but we’re trying to bring in some new things and look to the future,” says Rich Tobiasz, vice president of the fair board. “There are a lot of memories for people at the fair.”

Everyone has their favorite attrac

It’s hard to miss the presence of livestock at the McHenry County Fairgrounds in Woodstock. Not only do the animals fill nearly a dozen buildings on site, but they also add to the soundtrack. The public is invited to see the livestock barns up close or to watch the open livestock judging, which takes place Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday mornings. Sunday’s Pee Wee Dairy Show introduces the county’s youngest dairy farmers and their prize cattle.

“One of the things we try to do is to educate people on where their food comes from,” says Tobiasz, who runs a small vegetable farm near Spring Grove. “We

handiwork in the open judging exhibitions. This is the place to see antiques, old tractors, local produce and even Aunt Bea’s old-fashioned rhubarb pie. “It’s all those things you would typically find at a good, old-time country fair,” says Tobiasz, adding that any county resident has until July 16 to enter the juried exhibits.

As always, the carnival rides open daily and continue into the night. Nearby, dozens of food vendors peddle their familiar fair treats. Tobiasz’s favorite stops are the Farm Bureau booth and the 4-H breakfast, but there’s a variety of familiar treats on-hand.

A busy lineup of entertainment keeps

@Elkhorn Antique Flea Market

its K-9 unit Tuesday through Friday, as a prelude to the Friday-evening talent show and the Saturday-morning hay bale throwing contest.

Meanwhile, the grandstands keep the entertainment coming every evening. See the new county fair queen receive her crown on Tuesday, marvel at the daring lumberjacks’ tricks on Wednesday, cheer on the pro wrestlers Thursday, and then cheer on the bull riders and barrel racers on Friday. In years past, Saturday night was an occasion for big-name acts to appear onstage, but this year the stage

is set for a special tribute to the fair’s history. Starting at 4 p.m., a series of five tribute bands begin their celebration of the best music from each decade since the 1950s.

Sunday brings a grand close-out celebration with tractor pulls and a demolition derby, all of it following a special 21-tractor salute at 10 a.m.

For 75 summers now, the fair has gathered at the same corner of Woodstock, just east of Illinois Route 47. Fairs have actually been gathering in McHenry County since about 1854, says Tobiasz, but they took a hiatus during the World Wars and the Great Depression.

This year’s anniversary comes with plenty of small tributes and special commemorations, including a recognition of local farmers whose families have worked the land for 75 years or longer. There’s also a special tribute to WGN broadcaster Orion Samuelson, as the fairgrounds’ Building D is christened in honor of the longtime agriculture reporter.

The McHenry County Fair runs Tuesday, Aug. 1 through Sunday, Aug. 6, with the grounds opening daily at 7 a.m. Parking is free, but there is an admission fee of $10 for adults and $5 for seniors, veterans and children age 6-12. Children under 5 are free.

As much as the fair celebrates the rural life, Tobiasz knows this is a good place for city kids, too. He remembers what it was like to grow up in Chicago and dream of becoming a farmer. So, he has a soft spot for the children who meet farm animals for the first time and discover where their food really comes from.

“It’s so interesting to see kids who never even realized there are green and brown eggs from chickens,” he says. “We tell them that, no, these aren’t really any different. They just look that way. It’s a lot of fun and it’s a good education for them.” ❚

McHenry County Fairgrounds are located at 11900 Country Club Road, in Woodstock.

(McHenry County Fair photo)

COMMON SENSE REMODELING

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“We wanted to do something a little unique... Advance Design was the first one that understood the concept of what we were trying to do. The ability to work through one point of contact really made the process achievable.”

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Seeing is Believing in the Kitchen Showroom

By Chris Linden, executive editor

Homeowners have lots of questions

before they embark upon a remodel. They’re not only concerned about style, quality and cost but they also want to know they’re hiring the right people. The internet has made it easier than ever to find answers, but can you trust everything you see? Not necessarily, which is why a visit to the showroom is a good first start.

At a kitchen and bath showroom like Blue Ribbon Millwork, in Woodstock, homeowners find expert designers who can put together all of the details.

“We invite people to come here first,” says designer Megan Lebar. “That’s a great first step so you can see what brands we offer in cabinets, countertops, undercabinet lighting, and all variety of other components.”

It’s easy for clients to feel overwhelmed, so designers like Lebar and her counterparts, Kelsey Bechtel

and Carmen Haddaway, act as navigators through the entire process. A designers’ true value lies in their experience and knowledge, which help them to put every choice into perspective.

“We’re helping the client to recognize what direction they’re headed,” says Lebar. “We show good, better, best for cabinets, and explain the differences in design options and cabinet construction. We have an example kitchen that’s priced out for each of our cabinet lines, so we can share ballpark numbers, based on a 12-by-12-foot kitchen.”

To further put things in perspective, a new “cabinet comparison corner” shows a variety of cabinet boxes, drawers and doors with a glass countertop, so designers can demonstrate exactly how these brands, styles and price points compare.

By the time you leave the showroom, you should feel educated and confident in

the steps ahead, says Bechtel. You know you’ve found a good designer when you feel comfortable with their knowledge and they recognize your needs.

“The best designers are good navigators and good advocates,” says Bechtel. “You shuld feel confident that they are going to do a great job for you and be personally invested in your project. I think that’s more important now than ever before.” ❚

Blue Ribbon Millwork is located at 1401 S. Eastwood Dr., in Woodstock, (815) 338-8900.

Blue Ribbon’s showroom in Woodstock

Every Day’s Event-Full at St. Charles Parks

Ifyou were to mark the calendar with all of the summer activities taking place at Swanson Pool and Otter Cove in St. Charles, there would be very few empty days.

Every Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday afternoon, all ages can enjoy a vigorous stroll in Otter Cove’s Turtle Creek Lazy River. Every Monday and Friday evening, bring an inflatable raft for Float Nights at Swanson Pool. Show off your artistic talents at Swanson Pool every Friday in June and at Otter Cove every Wednesday in July.

Then, there’s the Princess & Frog Night for kids as young as 3 years old, Sand Volleyball with a Lifeguard, and the Splashes, Dashes & Spokes Youth Triathlon for ages 5-15.

Traditional favorites like Mermaid & Pirate Night, Sink or Swim Cardboard Boat Race, Have a Splash with Moana or

Sundae Sundays are joined with wet and wacky new events including a Family Trivia Night, National Watermelon Day, Back to School Bash and Playin’ & Poolin’ Around.

All ages are welcome to help break the Guinness World Record for water safety awareness at the World’s Largest Swim Lesson, a nationwide event geared toward building awareness about swimming lessons and safety skills.

At June’s Party Picnic, the competition heats up with hula hoop races and grass games. The whole family can demonstrate their water skills during the Biggest Splash Contest, and anyone can experience the job of a lifeguard during Lifeguard for a Day activities.

Watch out for more special parties: DJ Nights on Tuesdays in July, Ollie’s Birthday Bash on July 8 and Christmas in July on July 25.

“We’ve really tried to come up with something for everyone,” says Alex Weidner, Otter Cove Aquatics Supervisor. “Summer is all about having a good time, whether that’s relaxing by the pool with a good book or working up a sweat with a game of hoops in Otter’s sport spot.”

For more information about the park district’s summer aquatic fun, visit swansonpool.org or ottercove.org. ❚ Otter Cove is located at 3615 Campton Hills Dr. and Swanson Pool is located at 8 North Ave. Both are in St. Charles.

A Summer of Memorable Performances

By Steven Bonifazi, assistant editor

Whetheryou prefer theater productions or live concerts, the Paramount Theatre and RiverEdge Park in Aurora have an exhilarating summer lineup that’s sure to entice anyone.

“There’s not a single show I’m not excited about, and I mean that,” says Tim Rater, president and CEO of the Aurora Civic Center Authority, which oversees both Paramount and RiverEdge. “We’ve got a little bit of everything for everyone.”

RiverEdge Park keeps the outdoor entertainment going all summer long. Following an Independence Day bash, RiverEdge welcomes high-energy Chicago band 7th Heaven on July 7. Then, rock icons STYX take the stage July 11 with unforgettable classics like “Come Sail Away” and “Renegade.”

Hollywood Nights, a Bob Seger tribute band, takes a nostalgic journey on July

28 as it captures the spirit of one of America’s rock icons.

Led Zeppelin fans won’t want to miss Get The Led Out on Aug. 18, as they pay tribute to one of the greatest rock bands in history.

The genre-bending Poi Dog Pondering bring their unique blend of rock, folk, jazz and world music on Aug. 26. A few days later, Rick Springfield, The Hooters and Paul Young grace the stage for a trip back in time.

To close out the season, REO Speedwagon lights up the night with classic hits like “Keep on Loving You” and “Can’t Fight This Feeling.”

“RiverEdge is kind of a west suburban secret for some people,” says Rater. “People are looking for a good time, and when you have a place where you can sit outside with fresh air, have a beer or soda and

make an evening of it. It’s pretty great.”

Just as RiverEdge’s season comes to a close, things heat up at Paramount Theatre as it opens “Little Shop of Horrors,” which runs Aug. 30 through Oct. 15. Next door at the Copley Theatre, the second BOLD series launches with the edgy musical “Next to Normal” from July 26 to Sept. 3.

For the latest information and to order tickets, head to paramountaurora.com. ❚

Paramount Theatre is located at 23 E. Galena Blvd., Aurora. RiverEdge Park is located at 360 N. Broadway, Aurora. Contact the box office at (630) 896-6666.

(RiverEdge Park photo)

3 Things to Know About Grilling Meats

By Steven Bonifazi, assistant editor

Whenit comes to summertime grilling, trust your butcher. They know a thing or two about cooking meat. Mark and Justin Hibshman, the father-son duo behind Headon’s Fine Meats in Creston, are always ready to share their knowledge with novices and pros alike.

“We get so many people who come in and we teach them how to cook,” says Mark. “We tell them things like what seasonings to use and how we cook the different cuts.”

There are, of course, many ways to grill your meat, but some methods will produce better results.

For one thing, enhance the taste of your meat by marinating it overnight. Doing so will infuse the meat with flavor, says Justin.

“Put the seasoning on your steak, then wrap it in Saran wrap and put it in your refrigerator,” he adds. “When you

take it out, all the seasonings will have penetrated deep into the meat.”

It’s also important to remember that not all meats cook the same. While chicken and pork should stay in the fridge until the grill is ready, beef should sit out a bit. Throwing beef on the coals when it’s at room temperature will promote even cooking and tenderness.

“If you throw steak on the grill right out of the refrigerator, the outside edge is going to get to a nice warm temperature and the inside of that steak is still going to be cold,” says Mark. “You want to warm up that inside in a slow process. If you do it too quickly, you’re going to burn the outsides.”

Cooking also requires a degree of patience. The Hibshmans find many people cut their meat as soon as it comes off the heat. Allow it to rest a few minutes so the meat retains its juiciness and tenderness.

“When you take a piece of meat off the grill, it’s going to continue cooking,” Mark says. “If you like your steak medium, which is at that 145-degree range, based upon the thickness of the meat you will want to pull it off the heat around 135 to 139 degrees to allow the juices to absorb into the meat. It will cook itself a little longer, make a more tender piece of meat and prevent overcooking.” ❚

Headon’s Fine Meats is located at 103 N. Main St., in Creston, (815) 3843620.

Member-Only Resorts Are a Personal Retreat

By Jim Taylor, managing editor

Vacation

means relaxing and spending quality time with loved ones. Planning a vacation, on the other hand, can feel like a stressful and time-consuming experience. Wouldn’t it be great to have a reliable getaway of your own?

Many families are finding just that at a members-only resort, where they can get away as often as they like.

Nicci Leffelman, marketing communications manager at the Woodhaven Association, has spent more than 15 years helping families find their dream spot at Woodhaven Lakes, a private recreational camp resort in Sublette, Ill. With seven lakes, two swimming pools, a beach, a large array of sports facilities and a rotating schedule of activities, Woodhaven Lakes is a go-to resort for many families.

“For the past couple of years families have been looking for a way to get

out of the home without being in public,” says Leffelman. “We’ve been in pretty high demand.”

Woodhaven Lakes has more than 6,000 lots, each with its own benefits. While fishing enthusiasts love the variety of fish in the lakes, the depth of the water only allows for certain kinds of boating.

Before purchasing a lot at any members-only resort, it’s best to research and visit your top choices, says Leffelman. Once you’ve made a purchase, you’ll need to arrange accommodations. At Woodhaven Lakes, that means having an RV or pitching a tent.

While resorts are a wonderful place to stay, they’re not supposed to be a permanent retreat. Many resorts, Woodhaven Lakes included, have limits on overnight stays and cannot be used as a primary residence. This, and other policies, will be

included in your membership agreement, which should be read carefully.

Once you’re moved in, it’s time to enjoy a smorgasbord of recreation.

“Our recreation department works year-round to make sure there is plenty of fun for our members,” says Leffelman. “It’s the reason people come here.” ❚

Woodhaven Lakes is located at 509 LaMoille Road, in Sublette, Ill., (815) 849-5209. Learn more at woodhavenassociation.com.

(Woodhaven Lakes photo)

Why Settle for Dirty Water from Your Tap?

By Peggy Werner

Most people are aware of the benefits of drinking enough water, but did you know there’s also a lot to be said for getting enough of the right water?

“It’s important to have good, clean water because you only have one body, so it only makes sense to take care of it,” says Paul Durham, co-owner with his son, Joshua, of Affordable Water in Belvidere.

The elder Durham has been in the water business for more than 40 years and has owned his company for half that time. Affordable Water sells and services all brands of water softeners, water heaters, drinking systems, de-chlorinators, and bottled water within a 75-mile radius.

One of the most common problems the Durhams encounter on the job is water with rust and a smell. For clients who draw from a well, there’s also a concern about inconsistent water quality.

“Well water moves 40 to 50 feet up through the earth each day and therefore is changeable,” says Durham. “City water is highly chlorinated, but that doesn’t mean it’s clean. Tankless water heaters will get clogged up if water going through them isn’t clean. All water heaters work more efficiently with conditioned water, heating the water 30% faster.”

There are numerous solutions that can help to overcome these water problems, and an expert water treatment service can help.

Reverse osmosis systems are a chemical-free way to treat water so that it’s ready for drinking and cooking. These systems filter out 90% of all impurities, says Durham.

Water softeners can help to deal with lots of minerals in the water and de-chlorinators can extend the lifespan of a water softener by removing the chlorine that’s

in your tap water.

These systems do need periodic maintenance, and a reputable company like Affordable Water can help with service, repairs and filter replacements.

The benefits to drinking better water lie far beyond better taste.

“Drinking filtered water helps eliminate kidney and gall stones and helps prevent a lot of health problems,” says Durham. ❚

Affordable Water is located at 214 W. Menomonie St., in Belvidere, (815) 524-8435.

Live and Uncorked Concert Series

Through July 27, Thurs. 7 p.m. Bring a chair and snacks and enjoy this BYOB evening full of music. Blackberry Farm, 100 S. Barnes Road, Aurora, (630) 897-0516, foxvalleyparkdistrict.org.

Crystal Lake Concerts in the Park

Through Aug. 8, Tues. 7 p.m. Bring a picnic and enjoy live music performed by a regional band. Main Beach, 300 Lakeshore Dr., Crystal Lake, (815) 459-0680, crystallakeparks.org.

Concerts in Lincoln Park

Through Aug. 10, Thurs. 7 p.m. Gather around the gazebo and sample snacks while a local tribute band plays. Lincoln Park, 450 W. Main St., St. Charles, (630) 513-6200, stcparks.org.

Huntley Farmers Market

Through Oct. 28, Sat. 8 a.m.-1 p.m. A wide variety of farm-fresh goods and local products. Downtown Huntley in the square, 11704 Coral St., (815) 515-5200, huntley.il.us.

Woodstock Farmers Market

Through Oct. 28, Tues. & Sat. 8 a.m.-1 p.m. The market features live music and everything from produce to artisan goods. Historic Woodstock Square, woodstockfarmersmarket.org.

Entertainment & Events

Farmers Market+ at The Dole

Through Oct. 30, Sun. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Family activities, local produce and artistic creations. The Dole, 401 Country Club Road, Crystal Lake, (815) 307-4787, farmersmarketatthedole.org.

Classic Car Show

July 10, 10 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Open to all years and makes, this show includes live music, food and museum gifts. Elgin History Museum, 360 Park St., Elgin, (847) 742-4248, elginhistory.org.

Styx

July 11, 8 p.m. The classic rock band is known for hits like “Come Sail Away,” and “Mr. Roboto.” RiverEdge Park, 360 N. Broadway, Aurora, (630) 896-6666, riveredgeaurora.com.

Kane County Fair

July 12-16, see website for times. Includes entertainment, 4-H displays, rides, more. Kane County Fairgrounds, 525 Randall Road, St. Charles, (630) 584-6926, kanecountyfair.com.

Fiesta Days

July 13-23, events daily. Eleven days of family fun including a parade, carnival, music, fireworks, more. Peterson Park, 4300 Peterson Park Road, McHenry, mchenryfiestadays.com.

Mike Dangeroux Orchestra

July 13, 6 p.m. The six-member orchestra brings a repertoire of more than 500 songs. The Dole, 401 Country Club Road, Crystal Lake, (815) 4558000, thedole.org.

MBTL: Lake Geneva Symphony Orchestra

July 16, 4 p.m. Travel from “Chicago” and “New York, New York,” through Appalachian Spring and beyond. Music by the Lake, George Williams College, 350 Constance Blvd., Williams Bay, (262) 245-8501, musicbythelake.com.

Arts on the Green: Music of Steven Sondheim

July 22, 7 p.m. An all-star cast pays tribute to the late composer. Raue Center’s Arts on the Green, St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, 210 McHenry Ave., Crystal Lake, (815) 356-9212, rauecenter.org.

Fish & Chips with the Queen

July 23, noon-2 p.m. Leslie Goddard hosts lunch as Queen Elizabeth II. Res req. Barrington’s White House, 145 W. Main St., Barrington, (224) 512-4066, barringtonswhitehouse.com.

Algonquin Founders’ Days

July 25-28. Events daily, including cardboard boat race. Spella Park, 2550 Harnish Dr., Algonquin, (847) 242-1589, algonquinfoundersdays.com.