Your Better Quality of Life Magazine • 95¢ • July-August 2022
FAMILY FUN
For All Ages in St. Charles See Page 24
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In This Issue Right in Our Region........................................ Cover & p. 24 An Itinerary for Fun in St. Charles Your Home .............................................................. 11 Can You Recognize Well-Built Furniture? Inspiration & Worship........................................... 14 A Hopeful People Outdoor Living ...................................................... 19 Starting Points for a Colorful Landscape Your Remodel ........................................................ 23 Prioritize Value for a High-Quality Remodel Your Outings .................................................... 27, 31 McHenry County Fair; Mendota’s Sweet Corn Fest Your Health ............................................................ 35 Fox Fitness Makes it Easy to Stay in Shape Your Dining ............................................................ 39 Crystal Lake Brewing Starts the Night Off Right Your Kitchen .......................................................... 41 Brat Cooking Tips from the Pros Your Fun .................................................................. 44
Publisher/Editor-in-Chief Bill Hughes Executive Editor/Web Editor Chris Linden Senior Editor Lindsey Lukas Managing Editor Jim Taylor Graphics Director Samantha Behling Graphic Designer Ashley Smith Contributing Writers Sam Arco, Katie Gray, Stephanie N. Grimoldby, Randy Ruef, Pat Szpekowski, Peggy Werner General Sales Manager Brent Hughes Sales Manager Brad Hughes Advertising Sales Representatives Brian Hughes, Jeremy Jones, Nita Lasky Administration & Circulation Manager Lisa Hughes Director of Corporate Happiness Hana Hughes Website www.SmartLivingSuburbs.com Published by Hughes Media Corp. 222 Seventh St., Rockford, IL, 61104 (815) 316-2300, Fax: (815) 316-2301 lhughes@northwestquarterly.com
Smart Living. Copyright 2022 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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Beach Brain
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week on the beach was just what we needed. Our family’s summer vacation this year took us to the sunny beaches of southwest Michigan, where the sand is abundant and the water feels just right. The kids got their fill of sunshine and sandcastles, museums and munchies. Mom got lost in antique stores. Dad buried himself in a book. By the time we packed up and went home, we all felt relaxed and rejuvenated. It’s amazing how refreshing it feels to unplug from the daily grind. The way we vacation, the phones go away and our itinerary changes with the wind. It’s a welcome change from the go-go-go that preoccupies our suburban lives. There’s always so much to keep up with: sports, lawn mowing, gardening, laundry, cleaning, bill paying, social engagements – and on and on the list goes. When the tsunami of life crashes over us, it’s so hard to get away, and yet it’s restfulness that we most need. It used to be that everyone took Sunday as a day of rest. Businesses closed and families gathered together after church (another great place for some peace). Sitting on the beach, it’s so easy to lose yourself in the wind and the waves, the cries of the gulls, the shining sun and the sand streaming through your fingers. We were so lost in the moment we had no concept of time. Our 2-year-old had no idea how tired she was – and she passed out before we left the parking lot. Her brother wasn’t far behind. It’s amazing how well we all sleep after a day in the sun. It gets me thinking … why can’t we make ourselves a weekly vacation? Why couldn’t we spend a day with the family, pursuing our own fun on no particular plan? It can cost as much or as little as we want. Is it really so hard to visit the park, eat a picnic lunch, maybe play a round of mini-golf or swim at the beach? Soaking up fresh air with the ones we love, absorbed in Creation rather than our screens – now, there’s a mindset I can get behind. I need that beach brain more often. Don’t you?
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So Much to See. So Much to Do.
Hiking Trails. Woodlands. Nature. Lakes. WiFi. Pools. Crafts. Movies. Fitness Center. Prairie. Deer. Pavilions. Arcade. Mini Golf. Day Camp. Tennis. Basketball. Live Music. Theme Activities. Fireworks. Painting Parties. Open Markets. Social Events. Volleyball. Shuffleboard. Teen Dances. Car Show. Paddleboats. Sledding. Farmers Markets. Night Hikes. Campfires. Fishing. Tournaments. Pickleball. Acoustic Nights. Wine & Cheese Social. Road Rally. Golf Outing. 5K/3K. Haunted House. Canoeing. Anything That Floats. Horseshoes. Petting Zoo. Wagon Rides. Aqua Zumba. Playgrounds. Karaoke. Family Fun Night. Coffee Hour. Clubs. DJs. Scavenger Hunts. Kayaking. Tug of War. Food Fairs. Picnics.
Chris Linden Executive Editor
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kitchens • baths • lower levels • additions • renovations
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“From the beginning, Advance Design Studio was responsive, courteous, and professional. We couldn’t be more pleased with the outcome or process.” Tom R. || Arlington Heights
Your Home & Garden
Can You Recognize Well-Built Furniture? By Chris Linden, executive editor
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ot all furniture is made the same, nor is all furniture built to last. In fact, imported products are more prone to chipping and falling apart than Americanmade furniture built by quality craftsmen. “Like the old saying goes, you get what you pay for,” says Bob Wozniak, owner of Strode’s Furniture, in Huntley. “That’s why we take the time to show customers the construction of our furniture, and we encourage them to go out and do their shopping. They’ll see the difference.” Strode’s downtown location carries furniture for every room of the home. Most of it is sourced from American producers, particularly about 50 Amish wood shops in Indiana. These shops produce traditional and modern styles alike. The difference between cheap, massproduced furniture and quality, handcrafted work – like that made by Amish craftsmen – is easy to find if you know
where to look. First, inspect the joints. Dovetail joints are one of the strongest ways to join two pieces of wood. Cheaper furniture is joined together with only glue, staples or nails, says Wozniak. Next, check the edges where a board ends. Amish craftsmen use solid wood for their tabletops, whereas cheaper producers use particle board with a thin veneer. “Follow the wood grain from the top to the edge,” says Wozniak. “If it’s solid wood, you’ll see the wood grain continue. On a veneer, you’ll see a strip of wood running the opposite direction to cover up the edge.” Veneers are more likely to chip and crack, and they’re almost impossible to fix, says Wozniak. Solid wood, on the other hand, can be sanded and refinished. Of course, the finishing coat is one more way quality-made furniture distinguishes itself. Amish craftsmen apply
Durable, long-lasting furniture is a staple at Strode’s Furniture, in Huntley.
stain and lacquer in multiple steps, ensuring a smooth coat and a durable finish. Cheaper products are sprayed one time with a combination of stain and lacquer. Given supply issues abroad, Amish furniture is increasingly affordable compared with imported brands – and it typically ships quicker. “I drive out to Indiana about twice a month, get a full load of furniture and bring it back,” says Wozniak. ❚ Strode’s Furniture is located at 11707 Main St., Huntley, (847) 669-3500.
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Inspiration & Worship
A Hopeful People
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o matter what’s happening in the world, our faith is rooted in hope that some day we’ll be together with Jesus Christ. Most of us fear and grieve the end of life in this world. It’s the only world we’ve known. This is natural. Even Jesus prayed for God to take away the ordeal of physical death set before him. And he went a little farther, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as you will. – Matthew 26:39, AKJV But after his crucifixion and resurrection, Jesus made various appearances to his disciples and others, for 40 days, before ascending and disappearing into a cloud. As his apostles watched this phenomenon, two angels told them: “Men of Galilee, why do you stand here looking into the sky? This same Jesus, who has been taken from you into heaven, will come back in the same way you have seen him go into heaven.” – Acts 1:11, NIV Knowing that Jesus Christ will someday return to earth is a source of hope, joy and comfort to us. When writing to Christians at Thessalonica, Paul said: Brothers, we do not want you to be ignorant about those who fall asleep, or to grieve like the rest of men, who have no hope. We believe that Jesus died and rose again and so we believe that God will bring with Jesus those who have fallen asleep in him. According to the Lord’s own word, we tell you that we who are still alive, who are left till the coming of the Lord, will certainly not precede those who have fallen asleep. For the Lord himself will come down from heaven, with a loud command, with the voice of the archangel and with the trumpet call of God, and the dead in Christ will rise first. After that, we who are still alive and are left will be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And so we will be with the Lord forever. Therefore encourage each other with these words.” – I Thessalonians 4:13-18, NIV And so we do encourage one another with these words, believing the Word of God is truth. For the word of God is alive and active. Sharper than any double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and attitudes of the heart. – Hebrews 4:12 NIV ❚ –Janine Pumilia
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Outdoor Living
Starting Points for a Colorful Landscape By Pat Szpekowski
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ompleting a beautiful outdoor home landscape plan, design and outcome isn’t always as easy as 1, 2, 3. But it can be when you meld the visions of a homeowner with the creativity, talents and expertise of a professional landscaper. Joe Runde, owner of Runde’s Landscape Contractors, located west of Elgin, has been in business since 1988 and has completed many award-winning landscape projects across the Fox Valley. Those projects include everything from yards, patios and garden paths to wooden garden structures, mailbox plantings and water garden features. “It’s important to match landscaping to the style of your home, neighborhood and environment,” says Runde. “This gives us all a starting point to engage in a positive and worthwhile conversation to help me massage a client’s ideas and bring them to life.”
Runde finds clients are usually concerned about three aspects of their new landscape: low maintenance, color and fair pricing. In achieving such a goal Runde first listens to the client. He walks with clients around their house and listens to their ideas. Sometimes, they want to spruce up a front entry; others time they want a beautiful patio. With ideas in mind, it’s time to establish a realistic budget. “That’s when my three focus points begin: Our enthusiasm, creativity and client education to get the job done,” says Runde. “Landscaping is about common sense, and it’s important for me to guide customers who both overthink and underthink their landscape plans.” Before hiring a designer, check out the company’s website for project ideas. “It can be a starting point to help determine a landscape style, envision favorite
perennials and shrubs, or view both simple and dramatic landscape conversions,” adds Runde. It also helps to find a designer who’s seriously passionate. “It’s my life,” Runde says. “Even when we go on a personal vacation, it usually revolves around gardening, visiting an arboretum, touring a business, or meeting with one of our main suppliers. I love what I do and I love helping others enjoy their home landscape.” ❚ Runde’s Landscaping is located at 9N299 Ill. Rt. 47, in rural Elgin, (847) 464-5056.
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Your Remodel
Prioritize Value for a High-Quality Remodel By Chris Linden, executive editor e all want things fast, cheaply and where they would like to be financially, of high-quality. When it comes then we can develop a much better target to home remodeling, that’s sometimes a together early on,” Jurs says. “If we can’t tricky order. However, it is possible to get accomplish everything on their wish list results that are highly satisfying if clear initially, we can shift gears quickly and expectations are laid out and adhered to. make suggestions that will help them to “We like to balance the reality of exreach a beautiful solution for both their pected costs with how it relates to project design and pocketbook.” scope very early in the remodeling proAdvance Design Studio maintains a cess,” says Christine Jurs, co-owner with detailed process that works hand-in-hand husband Todd of Advance Design Studio, with clients. Everything is managed inin Gilberts. “We’re talking about how to house from design through construction, get the best value for the investment, and making for a smooth process and a more that’s how we approach the conversation predictable outcome. Still, many homewith our clients.” owners are tempted to save money or Homeowners should know their time by cutting corners. “must-haves” and “nice-to-have” fea“There are areas we encourage tures before visiting a kitchen and bath homeowners to take part in to save a little designer. Defining the scope of a project money, but overall we feel they get the and a target investment will help the demost for their money when they trust a signer to create realistic solutions. good partner for their expertise and sea“If people are open and willing about soned relationships,” says Jurs, who’s
(Advance Design Studio photo)
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found herself correcting many wellmeaning efforts. Renovating is a complex process that requires time, but when it all comes together, the value is readily apparent. “There was a client years ago who hugged me at the end,” says Jurs. “She said, ‘I know you told me to trust you at the beginning. I didn’t fully understand it at the time, but now I’m so glad I listened to you.’” ❚ Advance Design Studio Ltd. is located at 30 Railroad St., Gilberts, (847) 836-2600.
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Right in Our Region
An Itinerary to Play All Day in St. Charles By Katie Gray
ith the price of gas at more than five bucks per gallon and flight cancellations rising, many families will opt to stay closer to home this summer. While expensive trips to far-off places can be exciting, the great news is there are plenty of local, family-friendly places to have fun, cool off, explore nature and make memories this summer. One of those places is Pottawatomie Park in St. Charles. The 47-acre park has a range of amenities, guaranteeing your kids have no reason to whine that they’re bored. Families can spend the whole day – or even a weekend – exploring the park and never run out of things to do. If you’re looking for ideas to plan your trip, here’s a sample itinerary. 9 a.m. – Start with a relaxing walk through the native plant and sensory gardens along the Fox River. Young kids love the log steppers and vine tunnel, and
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everyone can stop to play a quick baggo game. “The garden is right behind the Pottawatomie Community Center,” says Katie Miller, assistant superintendent of recreation at Pottawatomie Community Center. “It’s a neat little walkthrough made up of all native plantings, so you’ll find lots of butterflies and bugs crawling around. Everything is marked so you can identify what’s there.” An all-inclusive playground was installed in 2021 and is designed so that children of all abilities can enjoy its features. It includes a wheelchair swing donated by the St. Charles Kiwanis Club. 11 a.m. – Next, head to the 18-hole River View Miniature Golf Course. “This is a great amenity that reaches all ages,” Miller says. Try Stanley’s Spin-N-Play wheel if you’re up for some extra amusement. You might look silly when you
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Paddleboats on the Fox River
(St. Charles Park District photos)
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putt standing on one foot or with just one hand, but it sure will entertain the kids. Don’t expect the course to be easy; with names like “I Dare You” and “Leap of Faith,” it’s a fun challenge even for a seasoned golfer. 12:30 p.m. – Next, grab lunch from the refreshment stand. Whether you’re craving something savory or sweet, you’ll find it here. “We serve all of the concession favorites, and they’re pretty
Right in Our Region affordable,” Miller says. You can order everything from hot dogs and brats to candy, soft pretzels, ice cream and soda. There’s plenty of seating nearby, so you can leave the picnic blanket at home. 1:45 p.m. – Now that your belly is full, take to the water on the Paddlewheel Riverboat for sightseeing on the Fox River. Kids and parents alike can partake in the ISPY activities onboard while searching for critters and birds during the cruise. “Those cruises are fun, and they run about 45 minutes, so it’s a good length of time for a little one’s attention span,” Miller says. The boat departs at 12:30, 1:45, and 3 p.m. on weekends or at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday through Friday. Alternatively, you can rent a swanthemed pedal boat and do the paddling yourself. These boats seat four at a time, so the whole family might be able to sit together. 3:30 p.m. – Get back on dry land with a walk around the paved trails or challenge the kids to a friendly competition
is a nice feature for adults.” Twilight Swim starts at 5:30 p.m. and continues every evening through Aug. 14. “It’s just $5 per person,” Miller says. “You can end your day with an evening swim to cool off.”
Affordable Summer Fun
River View Miniature Golf
with a game of tennis or sand volleyball. There’s also a steep incline by the amphitheater that makes for a great uphill running contest. 5:30 p.m. – Is there anything more refreshing after a long walk than a dip in the pool? “We have Swanson Pool right in Pottawatomie Park,” Miller says. “It’s a great spot to go, and it’s perfect for families. We’ve got plenty of lap lanes, which
This action-packed day would only cost around $30 per person, including lunch, making Pottawatomie Park an affordable choice for families looking for fun that’s close to home. Miller also says some new and special events are happening this summer inside the park. “We have movies in the park, which we’re collaborating with the St. Charles Public Library on,” she says. “There’s a movie playing on Friday, Aug. 19, ‘The Mitchells vs. the Machines’. It starts at 7:50 p.m., and it’s free for all ages.” ❚ Pottawatomie Park is located at 8 N. Ave., in St. Charles. Check stcparks.org for up-to-date hours and pricing.
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BELOIT Where Stories Begin Live Music • Night Life • Dancing • Festivals • Outdoor Concerts
Hear the difference. VISITBELOIT.COM/HEAR 608.365.4838 26
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60 Miles South of Madison 75 Miles West of Milwaukee 90 Miles West of Chicago
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Your Outings
Fun for All at McHenry County Fair T
his summer’s McHenry County Fair is an event not to miss. Serving the Chicago area for more than 70 years, the McHenry County tradition continues this year with a six-day event that kicks off Tuesday, Aug. 2, and runs through Sunday, Aug. 7, at the McHenry County Fairgrounds in Woodstock. From the official opening at noon on Tuesday through the final closing gate at 8 p.m. Sunday, there’s fun for the whole family all week long. Favorites include the traditional 4-H displays, Open and Junior Open livestock and non-livestock shows, a carnival, Miss McHenry County Pageant, monster truck races, tractor pulls, a demolition derby, bull riding and more. Gates are generally open to the public daily from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. In addition to all the of the daytime attractions at the fair, there’s plenty of
fun once the sun goes down. Grandstand entertainment happens every night and includes a draft horse pull and a professional championship bullriding competition. On Saturday night, country stars Big & Rich bring their distinct sound to the stage. They’re joined by guest Sara Evans, a country singer/songwriter. Tickets can be purchased online at mchenrycountyfair.com. Purchase general admission tickets at the gate or online, for either a singleday entry at $10 or a six-day admission at $30. Tuesday is Family Fun Day, and tickets are only $5. Seniors, veterans and children age 6 to 12 get in for $5 daily. Other special offers can be viewed online.
(McHenry County Fair photo)
By Brian Hughes
The McHenry County Fair is where families come to create summertime memories that last a lifetime. Mark your calendars, because this year’s event promises to be bigger and better than ever. ❚ The McHenry County Fair happens Aug. 2-7 at the McHenry County Fairgrounds, 11900 Country Club Road, in Woodstock, (815) 338-5315.
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Only in Geneva
SHOP • EAT • DRINK • PLAY • FEST
Festival of the Vine Sept. 9-11, 2022
CHEERS TO FUN!
Geneva’s Festival of the Vine is a fabulous time for friends and families, now at our new location at S. Fourth & James streets. Enjoy beer and wines from around the world. Feast on mouth-watering specialties from Geneva’s acclaimed eateries at our Flavor Fare. Find unique gifts at our Art and Crafts show. For events schedule and details, go to genevachamber.com.
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Your Outings
Mendota Marks 75th Sweet Corn Festival By Randy Ruef cheduled for Aug. 11-14, the annual Sweet Corn Festival celebrates its 75th anniversary this summer as it overtakes the streets of downtown Mendota, Ill., a community of just under 7,300 that’s located 2 hours southwest of Chicago. The event features carnival rides and food, vendors, a flea market, a beer garden, a craft show, a queen pageant, musical entertainment, a parade and the famous free corn boil. It’s a homecoming weekend for many former Mendota residents, but as evidenced by the thousands of people who attend every year, the appeal is widespread. “We draw people from the Chicago area, Rockford, Bloomington, Ill., Normal, Ill., all over,” says Shelby Weide, president and CEO of the Mendota Area Chamber of Commerce and the event’s chief organizer.
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The biggest draw of the weekend is in the name: sweet corn. There are vendors throughout the weekend who sell it, but on Sunday, the festival offers all the sweet corn you can eat for free. There’s also a Sunday parade and a carnival midway with rides including the flying teacups, a large slide, the Dragon Wagon and a fun house. Food vendors offer everything from iconic fair food (corn dogs, burgers and pizza) to ethnic dishes (egg rolls, Italian sausage and gyros). The crafters market and flea market on Saturday and Sunday feature baby items, sewn items and decor, along with collectibles, books and antiques. The Sweet Corn Queen pageant takes place on Friday night at 7:30 p.m. This year, to honor the 75th anniversary of the festival, all past queens have been invited back.
“When you were a kid growing up in Mendota, the Sweet Corn Festival was like Christmas.” says Paulette Kraus, a Florida resident who flies back to her hometown every summer. “You looked forward to it. You’d get with your neighborhood friends and head downtown and go on the rides and get your taffy and your corn dogs and carny food.” ❚ Mendota Sweet Corn Festival runs Aug. 11-14 in downtown Mendota, Ill. For info, visit sweetcornfestival.com.
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Your Health
By Sam Arco f you’re looking to stay fit, the Fox Valley Park District has options for residents and nonresidents alike. Based in Aurora but also also serving Montgomery, Sugar Grove and North Aurora, the park district’s Fox Fitness brand is helping individuals achieve their goals. By far, the most active of the park district’s workout facilities is Vaughan Athletic Center in Aurora, a 225,000-squarefoot facility with many amenities. The aquatic center boasts a water park, an eight-lane lap pool and a warm water therapy pool, in addition to a tennis center that holds nine indoor courts. The field house features four courts, with open gym times and an indoor batting cage. There’s also a pair of indoor tracks for walking and running. Child-friendly facilities, including an indoor playhouse and childcare center, make fitness a family affair.
“Our goal is to try to appeal to everyone in the area and find out what programs best suit an individual,” says Brett Meier, general manager of Fox Fitness. “We get a mix of all ages and diverse backgrounds at the Vaughan Center.” Fox Fitness offers several membership packages and rates including special pricing for seniors, couples, students, individuals and families. For students, the center also offers varying membership lengths of one to four months. A personal training package allows members to work with a personal trainer. Members typically use these sessions to attain a particular goal such as weight loss, core development, or strength training and flexibility. Outside of the Vaughan Center, Fox Fitness members can use facilities and take classes at Aurora’s Prisco Community Center and the Eola Community Center.
(Fox Valley Park District photo)
Fox Fitness Makes it Easy to Stay in Shape I Additionally, there are neighborhood pop-ups in many public parks this summer. Periodic, free events are scheduled through September. “I think these events are great for the whole community to enjoy just by working out together in a different setting,” Meier says. “It’s fun to see people in the community come out and try something new, which is what our business is all about.” ❚ Vaughan Athletic Center is located at 2121 W. Indian Trail in Aurora, (630) 907-9600, foxfitness.info.
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Dining Out
Crystal Lake Beer Starts the Night Off Right By Pat Szpekowski hen beer aficionados want a place to whisk away and relax while enjoying a favorite drink outdoors, they often look to Crystal Lake Brewing, located in downtown Crystal Lake. A production brewery, Crystal Lake Brewing serves up world-class beer creatively produced with the freshest of ingredients and expertise on site. The tastes and aromatic expressions range from a light golden lager to powerful stouts, red ales and seasonal favorites. The company’s tasting taproom is part of the 13,000-square-foot production facility, and tours are welcomed. There’s also a roomy fenced-in patio with 16 umbrella-covered tables. “Quality and authenticity are very important to us,” says John O’Fallon, brewery co-founder with Chuck Ross. “For example, for our German-styled beers, we import all of the grains and
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hops directly from Germany. There’s even a bit of chemistry involved, as we purify and then treat our brewing water to match the origin of the beer style.” No wonder Crystal Lake Brewing has a special place in the hearts of its fans. Brewmaster Ryan Clooney has overseen the process since the company’s debut in 2014. So many favorite and seasonal beers have been meticulously brewed since then. “Our Beach Blonde golden lager is easily our most popular beer and half of all the beer we sell,” says O’Fallon. In fact, Crystal Lake Brewing’s beers are also sold in more than 800 liquor stores, bars and restaurants across northern Illinois. Beer to-go is also served at the tap room. Crystal Lake Brewing does not serve food, but guests are invited to bring in sandwiches and snacks, especially when
purchased from nearby eateries – who also deliver right to the tap room. On Aug. 14, Crystal Lake Brewing celebrates its eighth anniversary with a huge patio party. “We’ll have food trucks and music acts to add to the fun and excitement,” says O’Fallon. “We’re proud of what we have done over our first eight years. Besides the beer itself, our staff, headed up by GM Beth Alberger, is the biggest part of our success.” ❚ Crystal Lake Brewing is located at 150 N. Main St., Crystal Lake, (779) 2209288.
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Special events all season long!
Open Daily through September 5 Daily Admission $16 per person
For a complete list: ottercove.org/calendar Mondays All Summer . . . Photos with Ollie & June TuTh All Summer . . . . . . . Not So Lazy River Walk July 31 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sundae Sunday August 2 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Biggest Splash Contest August 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . National Watermelon Day August 3 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Mermaid & Pirate Night August 4 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lifeguard for a Day August 9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . National Book Lover’s Day
Save money with a 10-Visit Pass! In James O. Breen Community Park 3615 Campton Hills Road • St. Charles • 630-513-4377
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Your Kitchen
Tips from the Pros: How to Cook Brats Right By Stephanie N. Grimoldby
T
hink you know the best way to cook a brat? Hang up your tongs and hear out Mark Hibshman, who co-owns Headons Fine Meats in Creston, Ill., with his son, Justin. While the butcher shop and deli is well known for high-quality meat items, summer brings a big focus on bratwursts. And Headons knows a thing or two about them. The shop not only grinds its pork fresh on site, but it also seasons and stuffs its brats without preservatives. “You can taste the difference,” Hibshman says. Headons makes 57 flavors of brats, from traditional options to more exotic tastes like mac-and-cheese or blueberry. Some of those flavors require particular cooking techniques, which leads Hibshman to share his biggest tip: Cook your brats on the grill. Don’t boil them. “There’s a big myth out there that brats need to be boiled,” Hibshman says.
“We recommend strictly on the grill. When you have brats filled with different cheeses and fruit, they just fall apart in a pot of water.” Grill brats on low heat so they don’t char on the outside, and use a thermometer to make sure they reach an internal temperature of 165F, Hibshman says. “When a brat is done, it starts to split and starts spitting out the juices,” he says. “You want it done just enough to pop and be up to temperature.” For those who like a taste of beer on their brats, Hibshman says to pour a couple of beers into a tin pan on the grill. Place finished brats in the warm beer for a few minutes, and they’ll absorb the flavor. When it comes to brats, remember that sometimes, smaller is better. If you’re having a party, purchase a few flavors of brats, grill them up and cut them into 1-inch pieces, Hibshman says. Serve
them as appetizers using toothpicks. It’s also important to choose your sides – and buns – wisely. Certain side dishes go well with bratwursts. Topchoice side dishes at Headons are tri-colored pasta salad, baked beans or potato salad. “We make all our own buns here, so I recommend those,” Hibshman laughs. “But if you don’t have ours, a nice thick, higher-quality brat bun is always preferred.” ❚ Headon and Sons is located at 103 S. Main St., in Creston, (815) 384-3620, headons2go.com.
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Your Fun
Entertainment & Events
‘On the Wing’ Art Exhibit Now through Aug. 10, Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Features about 50 artists. Fine Line Creative Arts Center, 37W570 Bolcum Road, St. Charles, (630) 584-9443, fineline.org.
Stephanie Block & Clare Longendyke July 29, 7:30 p.m. The violist and pianist play a special chamber arrangement. Barrington’s White House, 145 W. Main St., Barrington, (224) 512-4284, barringtonswhitehouse.com.
Fitz and the Tantrums Aug. 12, 7 p.m. The multi-platinum artists have grown from independent upstarts to bonafide hitmakers. RiverEdge Park, 360 N. Broadway, Aurora, (630) 896-6666, paramountaurora.com.
Building Geneva Now through Aug. 20, Tues.-Sat. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. A hands-on architecture exhibit for ages 3-8. Geneva History Museum, 113 S. 3rd St., Geneva, (630) 232-4951, genevahistorymuseum.org.
McHenry County Fair Aug. 2-7, Tue. noon-10 p.m., Wed.-Sun. 8 a.m.10 p.m. McHenry County Fairgrounds, 11900 Country Club Road, Woodstock, (815) 3385313, mchenrycountyfair.com.
Lake Zurich Farmers Market Now through Sept. 9, Fri. 3-7 p.m. Fresh produce, handcrafted items and Busy Brains Children’s Museum. Paulus Park, 200 S. Rand Road, Lake Zurich, lakezurich.org.
Nurtured by Nature Aug. 14, 10-11 a.m. Experience the healing effects of nature with gentle stretching, deep breathing and awareness. Helm Woods Forest Preserve, 157 Helm Road, Barrington Hills, (630) 444-3190, kaneforest.com.
Raue Center’s Arts on the Green Aug. 6, 7 p.m. Recording artist Derrick Procell performs with Soundtracks of a Generation. St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, 210 McHenry Ave., Crystal Lake, (815) 356-9212, rauecenter.org.
Huntley Concerts in the Square Aug. 16, Tues. 7-8:30 p.m. The Four C Notes close out the season. Huntley Village Square, 11700 Main St., Huntley, huntley.il.us.
Downtown Elgin Farmers Market Now through Oct. 28, Fri. 3-7 p.m. Downtown Elgin, between Chicago Street and Fulton Avenue, (847) 488-1456, downtownelgin.com.
Kane County Flea Market Aug. 6-7, Sat. noon-5 p.m., Sun. 7 a.m.-4 p.m. Includes more than 600 dealers. Kane County Fairgrounds, 525 S. Randall Road, St. Charles, (630) 584-6926, kanecountyfleamarket.com.
Broadway at Paramount: ‘Dreamgirls’ Aug. 31-Oct. 16, check website for times. It’s the 1960s and Motown is on the rise. Paramount Theatre, 23 E. Galena Blvd., Aurora, (630) 8966666, paramountaurora.com.
‘Battling Butler’ (1926) Aug. 9, 7:30 p.m. In this silent film with live organ accompaniment, Buster Keaton pretends to be a boxer. Arcada Theatre, 105 E. Main St., St. Charles, (630) 962-7000, arcadaalive.com.
Art on the Fox Sept. 10-11, Artwork by 75 of the nation’s top juried artists, featuring all forms of media. Old Town Algonquin, 2 S. Main St., Algonquin, (847) 926-4300, amdurproductions.com. ❚
Farmers Market+ at The Dole Now through Oct. 29, Sun. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Locally sourced produce plus food trucks, music, art, children’s activities, more. The Dole, 401 Country Club Road, Crystal Lake, (815) 3074787, farmersmarketatthedole.org.
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saturdays ON THE SQUARE
FRESH MARKET/CRAFT/COMMERCIAL VENDORS
WWW.VISITELKHORN.COM
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