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Your Better Quality of Life Magazine • 95¢ • May 2021
Cruising the Fox Family Fun on the St. Charles Paddlewheel 3 Trends in Outdoor Entertainment A Proactive Approach to Joint Pain Why the Remodeler’s Showroom Matters It’s Back! Time for Geneva’s Swedish Days
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In This Issue Right in Our Region .........................Cover & p. 16 Time to Cruise on the St. Charles Riverboat Your Home ................................................... 11, 19 An Organized Home; A Unique Home Goods Store Inspiration & Worship ....................................... 14 Infants No More Your Outdoor Living ......................................... 21 3 Big Trends in Outdoor Entertainment Your Community ............................................... 23 Geneva’s Swedish Days Festival Returns Your Remodel .................................................... 25 Why the Showroom Matters in Remodeling Your Health ........................................................ 27 How to Avoid Long-Term Joint Pain Your Fun ............................................................. 28 Your Outings ..................................................... 29 Music Lovers, Get Ready for GearFest
Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Bill Hughes Executive Editor/Web Editor Chris Linden Managing Editor Jermaine Pigee Editor Emeritus Janine Pumilia Graphics Director Samantha Behling Graphic Designer Ashley Smith Contributing Writers Toni Rocha, Peggy Werner General Sales Manager Brent Hughes Sales Manager Brad Hughes Fort Wayne General Manager Sherri Cassedy Advertising Sales Representatives Brian Hughes, Jeremy Jones, Nita Lasky Administration & Circulation Manager Lisa Hughes Distribution Kelly Fairbairn Published by Hughes Media Corp. 222 Seventh St., Rockford, IL, 61104 (815) 316-2300, Fax: (815) 316-2301 lhughes@northwestquarterly.com Smart Living. Copyright 2021 by Hughes Media Corp., 222 Seventh St., Rockford, IL, 61104. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part of any text, photograph or illustration without written permission from the publisher is strictly prohibited.
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When it Rains
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emember that old rhyme about how April showers bring May flowers? Well, these past few weeks sure brought their share of rain to our household. It’s been one of those whenit-rains-it-pours kind of months. Maybe you’re feeling the same way. You’re going along and life is great – crazy, but good – and suddenly a dozen things come crashing down; chaos erupts. Some days it feels like you’ve been desperately treading water … in a hurricane. You know the feeling? It’s so easy to let the stress snap you apart and leave you shattered. It’s far harder to be the tree that bends and sways with the hurricane. Why can’t we be more like the wind-swept tree who finds joy in even the darkest moments? Just the other day, the kids reminded me why it’s so important to dance on the rainiest of days. We love our after-dinner walks, and on this particular night a storm was rolling in. The swirling, dark clouds blew across the horizon. That rain smell clung to the battering wind. We packed our umbrellas, headed for a short route and braced for it. Oh, it came, alright. Drips, at first. Then in buckets. The littlest one squealed with delight, her only protest coming when Dad scooped her up for the final yards. The older one was giggling wildly, even as a strong gust blew his umbrella inside out. The poor kid was nearly a kite. Once inside, we all were soaking wet and thoroughly happy. It’s funny, though, how our adult minds are so worried. Will my phone get wet? Will I have more laundry? Will lightning strike? Ugh, I’ll have wet shoes … Sound familiar? But the kids don’t care. They find joy in these little moments. Come to think of it, so do I – if I’m open to it. Just as the flowers need April rain to thrive, I suppose I need a good reminder of the joys right in front of me. Only then can I really blossom. So, whatever this month brings, I’m eager to see the flowers that bloom because of these rainy days. Chris Linden Executive Editor
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Your Home & Garden
Imagine Your Home Totally Organized By Chris Linden, executive editor
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lutter has a way of controlling us, so what if there was a way to tame that clutter and turn it into a showpiece? It’s a reality for many homeowners, says Jamie Trewartha, co-owner of Closets by Design Chicago North. His team specializes in storage and organizational systems for every part of the home, and while closets are by far their biggest request, their work can be found most anyplace in the home. Office spaces have been a hot commodity this year. A custom system that combines shelves, drawers, cabinets and desk space in a stylish finish accounts for a multitude of uses. Multipurpose is the new buzzword, and it’s on full display in the garage, which is becoming a secondary entertainment space. Cabinetry, countertops and wallhanging accessories get things organized,
while a DesignFloor system brings some color, fun and protection onto the floor. “When people see it for themselves, they always say, ‘That’s what I want,’” Trewartha says. Customized storage systems are as varied as each client’s home, and with 25 color options, the choices are endless. One of the most popular styles this year is the Brio textured white. It’s all-white, with a woodgrain finish that highlights the character of the closet. New LED lighting options enhance the glamour. Closets by Design has 25 experienced designers on staff, and Trewartha estimates they’re within a 15-minute drive of any customer. Their free consultation starts with a walk-through of the space and includes measurements, a conversation about budget, a custom design and lots of recommendations. In one
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visit, clients can sign a contract and set an installation date. The Closets by Design team puts a premium on customer service. “We understand the meaning behind getting back to a customer in a timely manner, keeping promises you’re making to them, and making sure if there’s an issue with anything we’re on it right away,” says Trewartha. ❚ For a consultation, contact Closets by Design Chicago North at (630) 5010190 (mention SL-W).
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Inspiration & Worship
Infants No More
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he Bible is the Master Plan. It tells us where we came from, who we are, what we should be doing and what our future holds. Without scripture, we’re like infants “tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming.” (Ephesians 4:4). Scripture tells us our identity. We were once paradise dwellers in harmony with God; we chose to trust in ourselves more than God (the fall); our lives became unbearable without God. But God devised a plan to restore our harmony with Him (foreshadowed in the Old Testament) which culminated in the arrival, ministry, death and resurrection of our Messiah, Jesus Christ (Gospels). Now we are part of the “church” (ecclesia, in Greek, “the called out” of God) and our work is to help others be reconciled to God by faith. (Acts, Epistles). Our decision to accept Jesus Christ means our physical bodies will be transformed by God in the next life and we’ll forever be with Him. But in the here and now, we’re to: “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things. For you died, and your life is now hidden with Christ in God. When Christ, who is your life, appears, then you also will appear with him in glory.” (Colossians 3:1-4) Paul tells Christians in Rome to “offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God – this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is – his good, pleasing and perfect will.” (Romans 12:1-2.) We’re to carry on Christ’s ministry of love and reconciliation, says Paul. “Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good.” (Romans 12:9). Our future life with Christ was settled the moment we accepted him. Our current life is determined day by day when we do God’s will – or not. Do our lives reflect a master plan? Or The Master’s plan? ❚ – Janine Pumilia 14
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Right in Our Region
Time to Cruise on a St. Charles Riverboat By Sara Myers
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he St. Charles Park District’s Paddlewheel Riverboats are back in season and cruising along the Fox River now through October. Both weekend and weekday cruises depart from Pottawatomie Park in downtown St. Charles and travel north along the Fox River. At Red Gate Road, the boat turns around and begins its return downriver. The picturesque cruise, which includes a pre-recorded narrative about several points of interest, passes a quiet stretch of the river where two forest preserves, a corporate retreat and lots of private estates guard the water. Wildlife and tree cover come in abundance. “The Norris Woods Nature Preserve is a beautiful natural wetland park, and the cruise gives you great views of that,” says Tera Harvey, manager of cruise
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operations at St. Charles Park District Music playing over the sound system sets Paddlewheel Riverboats. “We go past the mood for a picturesque view as shadBoy Scout Island, and then we head into ows and warm sunset tones fall upon the Pottawatomie Park. It’s a different perriverbanks and birds chatter their goodspective, and you see things you’ve never nights from the tree cover. had the chance to see before.” “Guests are welcome to bring a bottle There are many ways to enjoy the of wine, maybe their favorite beer aboard, riverboat this summer, from a traditional and pack a picnic,” says Harvey. “Those daytime cruise to special adults-only or are about an hour and 15 minutes long.” private-charter gatherings. The sunset cruises, which run on select evenings from June through October, disembark according to the day’s sunset time. Remember, it’ll be latest around June and July. Depending on the day, this cruise can be familyfriendly or adults-only with bring-your-own drinks. Adults-only booze cruises run on select evenings this summer.
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Right in Our Region The Cruising with the Breweries tour brings craft beer makers onboard as they share new offerings, talk about their work, share samples and host games. As the summer lingers, look for fun children’s-themed cruises, including one that’s entirely pirate themed and features a mini-golf component. “We’re going to have ‘Hocus Pocus’-themed cruises for Halloween,” says Harvey. “It’s a unique offering that we did last year that we will continue into 2021.” As much fun as public cruises are, the riverboat also plays host to many private cruises this season. “We’ve had bridal showers, wedding showers, family reunions and company outings,” says Harvey. “We are offering fundraising packages this year. That’s a nice option. It really attracts all different types of outings. You name it; we’ve had that aboard the boat.” Typical private cruises can last one to 3 hours. For private charters, there’s a
preferred caterer who can help to arrange seated meals or appetizers. The sound system is also available. The best way to purchase tickets this year is online at stcriverboats.com. Look for the Purchase Ticket button, which will bring you to the cruise calendar. It’s best to purchase in advance, says The riverboat departs from Pottawatomie Park in downtown St. Harvey. “However, if somebody Charles and heads north before returning to port. “This is a unique option in St. happens to be in the park and is surprised Charles,” says Harvey. “We are right on to see the riverboats, they’re able to purthe Fox River. You get outside and get chase a ticket, if we have room availsome fresh air. There are beautiful views able,” says Harvey. “They just go right to on the boat, and it’s not something you can Pottawatomie Community Center to get do just anywhere. It’s definitely an educastarted.” tional, picturesque and smooth cruise.” ❚ Ticket prices vary based on the date St. Charles Park District Paddleand time. Generally, adults can ride for wheel Riverboat Cruises depart from Pot$11 on weekdays and $12 on weekends, tawatomie Park, 8 North Ave., downtown with children from 3-15 years old riding St. Charles. For reservations, visit stcrivfor $9 on weekdays and $10 on weekends erboats.com or call (630) 584-2334. or holidays. Kids under 3 ride free.
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Your Home & Garden
The Midwest’s Most Unique Home Store F ounded nearly a century ago, Benson Stone Co. has become the most unique home store in the Midwest. Covering three city blocks in Rockford, this company provides homeowners one convenient location from which to satisfy their needs, whether it’s for fireplaces, grills, furniture, decor, indoor and outdoor lighting, a new kitchen, flooring, granite or quartz countertops, brick, pavers and/or landscaping materials. With the HearthRock Cafe at the store’s entrance, Benson Stone Co. is truly a one-stop-shop. Customers come from the Chicago suburbs, southern Wisconsin and west toward the Mississippi River. “This is a one-stop shop for anyone who’s remodeling or doing anything for their home,” says Andy Benson, company president and fourth generation of Benson leadership. “It’s convenient for them, because they can come in and pick
out kitchen cabinets and select the granite countertops, flooring and lighting that go with it. We can also fabricate the granite right here.” Benson Stone hangs its hat on the quality and durability of the products it sells. Those products come from around the world. The main showroom occupies four floors, each filled with product displays and staff members who boast a high level of expertise and professionalism. “All of our department managers are incredibly experienced, with a lifetime of experience in their field,” he says. “We also have staff members with decades of interior design experience, and incredibly talented kitchen and bath designers who’ve been in the industry for many years.” Benson Stone’s showroom is set inside a 134-year-old former furniture factory, a building that was thoroughly
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The third, fourth and fifth generations of Benson leadership: Paul (left), Howard and Andy.
restored in the early 2000s to show off its vintage character and charm. The renovated, opened-up space reveals a rustic timber frame, original wood flooring and exposed brick walls. Along the staircase, a glass elevator whisks visitors from floor to floor. A trip to Benson Stone is one outing that is sure to put a gleam in every homeowner’s eye. ❚ Benson Stone Co. is located at 1100 11th St., in Rockford, (815) 227-2000.
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Outdoor Living
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Outdoor Living
3 Big Trends in Outdoor Entertainment By Sara Myers
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f you get the feeling your backyard oasis could be more attractive, you’re not alone – especially as we continue to spend more time relaxing and entertaining at home. A few smart spruce-ups can do wonders for your home’s curb appeal and comfort level. “We do many different types of landscaping, but the most popular is the outdoor living area where families can entertain,” says Joe Runde, owner of Runde’s Landscape Contractors in Elgin. “We tend to do more patios and walkways. Creative entrances are very popular.” When it comes to designing that entertainment space, cozy is most desirable. Many homeowners are going for firepits where family can cuddle up and seating areas where they can gather over drinks and dinner. In particular, Runde finds his clients want three things: a wow factor,
low maintenance and results that fit their budget. For a true wow factor, Runde recommends smoother stone finishes such as Beacon Hill, by Unilock. These interlocking pavers come in three rectangular shapes, and their sharp lines make for a more contemporary look. Their smoothness is visually clean and easy on bare feet. Low-maintenance products are especially popular, and Runde relies on an installation system that greatly reduces the time and expense of maintaining a patio. The “gator base” installation system uses a 1-inch foam base set directly under the pavers. It’s less labor-intensive than the traditional gravel base, Runde says, and it’s designed to better withstand the freeze/thaw cycle that hits every Midwestern patio come winter. “It helps control ants and weeds, and it keeps the outside edges looking clean,” Runde says.
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There are plenty of add-ons that can make any outdoor space shine – pergolas, pavilions, built-in planters, TV walls – but our budgets often keep us grounded. Runde encourages his clients to do their homework before sitting down with a designer, so they’ll understand what’s possible. His website, rundes.com, is filled with creative ideas. “My job is to massage your ideas into something that feels pulled-together and relaxing,” he says. ❚ Runde’s Landscape Contractors is located at 9N299 Ill. Rt. 47, in Elgin, (847) 464-5056.
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Your Community
Swedish Days Festival Returns this June G eneva’s favorite summer festival is ready to return June 24-27. Swedish Days kicks off on Thursday with the Geneva Settler’s Coffee Hour, a breakfast for longtime residents. The morning meal is served to-go this year. Friday is Kids’ Day, and the Geneva Public Library is hosting special events and activities just for families. The fun really takes off Saturday morning, starting with the Swedish Days Lopp 5K at Gunnar Anderson Forest Preserve, off Batavia Avenue. A Kids’ Dash for children younger than 8 starts at 7:15 a.m. The chip-timed adults race starts at 7:30 a.m. and winds through the hilly preserve. Runners are encouraged to show off their Swedish pride while decked out in blue and yellow. There’s a post-race pancake breakfast, to-go style, at Geneva Lutheran Church. Saturday afternoon brings some new fun as live musicians take to the Kane
County Cougars’ Northwestern Medicine Field. Bring lawn chairs and blankets to the Music Garden for Dala-Palooza, a ticketed event that begins at 1 p.m. Meanwhile, the fun continues downtown as local retailers and restaurants hold special promotions and outdoors activities all weekend long. Sunday morning brings a delicious close to Swedish Days as 14 local retailers join the Choklad Crawl, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Stop by each location on this self-guided, open house-style tour to sample a unique, chocolate-inspired item. Some treats may be for the over-21 crowd only. Tickets are $18 and must be purchased in advance. They can be picked up the morning of the event or beginning June 15 at the Chamber of Commerce. As Illinois passes to the “bridge” phase, more excitement will continue to be added in the lineup. Paula Schmidt, president of the Geneva Chamber of
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Commerce, says she and her team are doing everything they can to provide a fun, safe and memorable experience for all. “We are so happy to be able to offer activities for Swedish Days,” says Schmidt. “It will still be a bit different, as we had to plan in advance. So, let’s all enjoy our ‘new’ Swedish Days.” ❚ For information or tickets, contact the Geneva Chamber of Commerce, 8 S. Third St., Geneva, (630) 232-6060, genevachamber.com.
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Your Remodel
Why the Showroom Matters in Remodeling By Chris Linden, executive editor
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eeing is believing, and that’s certainly the case with the showroom at C&H Design Center, in Belvidere. Specializing in cabinets, countertops, flooring and remodeling services this store is a one-stopshop for any remodeling project. The flooring section is filled with samples of hardwood, carpet, luxury vinyl and ceramic tile. There are rows of countertop and cabinet samples. Vignettes pull everything together. Owner Tod Chapman leads the design process. “We have everything here, so when we’re designing a room we can go right to the floor and see the countertop, the cabinet style, the hardware,” he says. “And, we have all of the sub materials, like waterproofing board and shower pans.” C&H Design Center carries products at many price points, from cost-effective to high-end, and lots of things in between. The store covers more than 30
well-known brands, such as Pella windows, Amerock hardware and Cambria countertops. What’s not directly in stock can typically arrive within a few days. “If you walk into Menard’s there are 10 wood-looking tiles. Well, we have 10 racks of wood-looking tiles, and the same goes for our other products,” says Chapman. “That’s a big difference.” So is the experience. Since 2002, Chapman and his team have been designing and building kitchens and bathrooms. There’s a team of in-house remodelers, and most subcontractors have been working with the team for 15 years or longer. Throughout the design and construction process, there’s one person coordinating things and communicating with clients. The team’s deep experience is also apparent inside the showroom, where customers can receive one-on-one attention. Even someone who wants to do the
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installation themselves can stock up on quality products and professional advice in one visit. So, even if it feels like a bit of a drive to Belvidere, the savings and services add up, Chapman says. “The items we’re selling here have been carefully considered,” he adds. “If we’ve had issues with something, we won’t sell it. So, we know which brands will give you the best bang for your dollar. We know what’s going to be cost-effective and get the job done.” ❚ C&H Design Center is located at 6506 Logan Ave., Belvidere, (815) 5478453.
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Your Health
Simple Steps to Avoid Long-Term Joint Pain B y To n i R o c h a
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he need for orthopedic treatment affects people of all ages. While there’s a tendency to believe that arthritis, tendonitis and other afflictions of the joints are related to aging, the truth is that sports, traumatic injuries and everyday tasks can hurt us, too. The trick is to remain proactive. Dr. Michael G. Kogan is a sports medicine orthopedic surgeon with Fox Valley Orthopedics in Algonquin. As the team physician for Jacobs High School since 1995, Kogan has seen evidence of injury in young people and suspects it’s tied to intense physical training. “An 8- to 10-year-old who is focused on becoming a baseball pitcher may train year-round exclusively on pitching,” Kogan says. “This can lead to ligament injuries in their elbows or growth plate fractures in their shoulders.”
Prevention requires a balanced crosstraining routine supplemented with periods of rest, Kogan adds. Otherwise, problems can appear early and carry throughout a person’s life. “Children heal quickly, so it’s important to diagnose the condition early and treat it aggressively,” he says. Of course, cross training, adequate physical conditioning and early, conscientious treatment of injuries can help active bodies of any age. Kogan routinely works with patients in their 50s, 60s and 70s who are experiencing arthritis and other problems brought on by earlier injuries. He encourages all patients to properly prepare for any sort of exercise. However, injuries can sometimes happen despite the best preventions. When that’s the case, treatment begins with physical therapy and anti-inflammatory medications, including cortisone
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injections when needed. If these do not alleviate the pain or relieve the stiffness, swelling or lack of flexibility, the next step may be surgery. “Joint pain can be treated with arthrosopic surgery,” Kogan says. “This minimally invasive surgery is used to treat minor issues such as meniscus tears with tissue repair or removal.” ❚ Fox Valley Orthopedics has locations in Algonquin, Barrington, Elgin and Geneva. Call (630) 584-1400 to schedule an appointment.
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Your Fun
Entertainment & Events ESO: Fridays on the Farm May 21 & July 2, 2 p.m. & 7 p.m. The Elgin Symphony Orchestra launches its new summer music festival with Music Director Andrew Grams conducting. Elgin Symphony Orchestra, The Venue at Goebbert’s, 42W813 Reinking Road, Pingree Grove. Tickets: ESO, (847) 8884000, elginsymphony.org.
Comedian Colin Mochrie and hypnotist Asad Mecci combine their arts with hilarious results on June 4 at Batavia Fine Arts Centre.
Due to rapidly changing conditions, call ahead to confirm event dates. Sycamore Farmers Market Ongoing, through Sept. 28, Tue. 3-7 p.m. Find fresh produce, flowers, baked goods, more. Blumen Gardens, 403 Edward St., Sycamore, (815) 3737, discoversycamore.com. Sculpture in the Park Ongoing, through September. Find the sculptures hidden in the park. Location: Mt. St. Mary Park, near Ill. Rt. 31 and Prairie St., downtown St. Charles, stcparks.org.
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Improv Under Hypnosis June 4, 7:30 p.m. Comedy legend Colin Mochrie and hypnotist Asad Mecci combine the two art forms for a unique experience. Batavia Fine Arts Centre, 1401 W. Wilson St., Batavia, (630) 937-8930, bataviafineartscentre.org. Kane County Flea Market June 5-6, Sat. noon-5 p.m., Sun. 7 a.m.-4 p.m. One of the longest-running antique and collectible flea markets. Kane County Fairgrounds, St. Charles, (630) 584-6926, kanecountyfair.com. Randall Oaks 5K & Kids Fun Run June 13, 8 a.m. Join a competitive run through the Randall Oaks campus. One-mile and halfmile routes for children. Randall Oaks Recreation Center, 500 N. Randall Road, West Dundee, (847) 428-7131, dtpd.org.
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Nature Story Time June 16, 10 a.m. Enjoy stories and explore the outdoors. Creek Bend Nature Center, 37W700 Dean St., St. Charles, (630) 444-3064, kaneforest.com. Swedish Days June 24-27. Local businesses and community organizations celebrate everything Swedish. Location: Downtown Geneva. Info: Geneva Chamber of Commerce, 8 S. 3rd St., Geneva, (630) 232-6060, genevachamber.com. Allman Brothers Tribute June 25, 8 p.m. This tribute group came together in 2019 in celebration of the band’s 50th anniversary. Egyptian Theatre, 135 N. 2nd St., DeKalb, (815) 758-1215, egyptiantheatre.org. “Kinky Boots” June 30-Aug. 15, see website for dates/ times. In this regional premiere, a shoe factory owner stumbles upon a drag queen who changes his business and his life. Based on the book by Harvey Fierstein and music lyrics by Cyndi Lauper. Paramount Theatre, 23 E. Galena Blvd., Aurora, (630) 896-6666, paramountaurora.com. ❚
Your Outings
Music Lovers, ‘Gear Up’ for Sweetwater Fest B y Pe g g y We r n e r
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or musicians across the world, this time of year is music to the ears. That’s because it’s time for Sweetwater GearFest, one of the nation’s biggest gatherings dedicated to music equipment. Held exclusively online this year, from June 25-26, this free, action-packed event includes online seminars, workshops, live performances, artist appearances, some of the best deals of the year, giveaways, and, most of all, the latest gear news and products offered by Sweetwater, an online music equipment retailer headquartered in Fort Wayne, Ind. There’s nothing else like it, says Bob Bailey, executive director of GearFest. “The Deal Zone is the first place people run to, and we have customers from all over the world wanting to meet up with the hundreds of companies showing the latest products and gear for recording artists,” he says.
Panels of engineers, producers, light designers, and award-winning songwriters and musicians will talk about what they do. Watch demonstrations and videos featuring Sweetwater experts and vendors. Attendees will get the inside scoop directly from manufacturers. GearFest is traditionally held on Sweetwater’s 163-acre campus, but it “pivoted” to an exclusively online event last year because of COVID-19. “This year’s online GearFest has been greatly expanded and improved with more presentations, more big-name artists and better deals,” Bailey says. Among this year’s headliners are Grammy-winner Peter Frampton and Bassist Ian Hill of Judas Priest. More bigname artists will be announced soon. Sweetwater is the largest online music retailer in the world. It sells a wide range of equipment, offering free shipping and two-year warranties. The com-
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pany’s 500 sales engineers, many of whom are also musicians, are thoroughly trained on the latest gear and personally assigned to a client. “That one-on-one approach is at the core of what we do,” says Heather Herron, vice president of corporate communications. “It’s not about the sale, it’s about helping our friends make their dreams come true.” ❚ Join GearFest online at sweetwater. com/gearfest. The Sweetwater headquarters music store is located at 5501 U.S. 30, Fort Wayne, Ind., (800) 222-4700.
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