BEAUTY & BODY CONFIDENCE PAGE 14
‘EYE OF THE BEHOLDER’:
APRIL 2017
SIP AND SAVOR
Water Street Studios’ next big exhibit PAGE 46
at Vintage 53 PAGE 36
THROWBACK
FASHIONS Trends through the ages
DIVE INTO SPRING! Cure Your Spring Fever Right Here in the Midwest
Join Us For Our Extravagant Easter Brunch Sunday, April 16 • 9:30am – 1:30pm
Room rates start at just $119 per night and includes a $25 food and beverage credit per day, per room.*
Featuring all your breakfast favorites, entrées, omelets & carving stations. Visit our website for the full menu.
Available March 24 – April 20, so book early!
Reservations Recommended: 630-584-6300
*Based on double occupancy. Rate applies to standard Tower and Golf Room only. Based on availability. Resort fee and tax not included. Restrictions may apply.
Adults: $42.95 Seniors 65+: $36.95
Kids 5-12: $16.95 Kids 4 & Under: FREE
We’ve planned fun Spring Break & Easter activities for your whole family! Check out our Event Calendar for details. For reservations and more information visit pheasantrun.com or call 800-4-PHEASANT (474-3272)
CT Now Available at CDI Lake in the Hills WE SPECIALIZE IN ANSWERS. When your health is in question, you want answers. When you need a medical imaging exam, like an MRI or CT scan, choose CDI. CT has recently been added at our Lake in the Hills center, providing more options for you. • Patient safety is our first priority - our radiation dose for CT is 40% below the national average.* • Exams at CDI typically cost at least 50% less than hospital-affiliated imaging providers. • We offer CT Lung Cancer Screening exams, which can reduce lung cancer deaths by 20%.**
WHEN YOU NEED A MEDICAL IMAGING EXAM, ASK YOUR DOCTOR TO SEND YOU TO CDI. CDI GENEVA
CDI LAKE IN THE HILLS
High-field, MRI, CT, Lung Cancer Screening, Bone Density (DXA), 3D Mammograms, NEW! Digital Mammograms, Ultrasound, X-ray
High-field MRI, CT, NEW! Lung Cancer Screening NEW!
1416 S. Randall Road, Suite 180 Geneva, IL 60134 630.208.9325
4 Cedar Ridge Drive, Suite D Lake in the Hills, IL 60156 847.458.6736
myCDI.com/IL
*According to the American College of Radiology's (ACR) Dose Index Registry (DIR) semi-annual report from July-Sept. 2016 **National Cancer Institute
INSIDE
FASHION & BEAUTY 8 FASHION THROUGH THE AGES Jori and June, Ivy Love Boutique and Jeans and a Cute Top Shop share decade-inspired spring fashion from the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s 14 EVERY BODY MATTERS What is beauty? Professionals discuss society’s obsession with perfection
BUSINESS & CIVIC 18 VANISHING INK Tattoo removal center expands services to include skin rejuvenation
DINING & ENTERTAINING 36 VINTAGE 53 New social spot raises the (wine) bar in downtown St. Charles
TRAVEL 38 A BOHEMIAN RETREAT Continue California dreamin’ in the yurts of Big Sur
40 THE GLASS-HALF-FULL GUY 19 MEET THE BOSS Fashionably minimal: The more Geneva resident Tiffany Cornell starts successful business in male- of less dominated field OUT & ABOUT
HEALTH & WELLNESS 20 FLYING HIGH Aerial art studios elevate fitness regimen
36
VINTAGE 53
New social spot raises the (wine) bar in downtown St. Charles Photos by Nancy Merkling
24 FUN OVER 50 Local clubs, classes and meet-up groups help retirees bask in the golden years 26 READY? SET. RUN! Whether you’re a novice or an avid runner, race your best this season
42 BOOK NOOK Great American stories by women and about women 44 DOWN ON THE FARM New Primrose Farm plaza gives guests a place to gather 46 ‘EYE OF THE BEHOLDER’ Water Street Studios’ next exhibition to weave together art and fashion
HOME & LIFESTYLE
48 ARTIST SHOWCASE South Elgin resident Sarah Look shares “Freckling Constellations”
28 MURPHY’S LAW Why sump pumps fail when you need them most
51 CALENDAR See what’s happening in Kane County this month!
30 CLEAR THE CLUTTER Garage sales turn your trash into another’s treasures 34 SPRING RENEWAL New plants to introduce into the garden
4 | APRIL 2017 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
Editor's Note It’s ironic that as I am sitting down to write about spring, there happens to be a blanket of fresh snow covering the ground outside. But, nevertheless, it is (nearly) spring, and that means it’s time for some seasonal renewal. From finding a new exercise regimen and eating healthier to cleaning out your closet and updating your wardrobe, it’s time to shake off those winter “blahs” and get back to being you! Who’s with me? The April issue is dedicated to women’s fashion and beauty. But what is beauty? What, or who, is considered beautiful? To answer those questions and discuss society’s obsession with perfection, we combed the county for professionals in fields related to the topic – plastic surgeons, a psychotherapist, Pilates instructor and beautician. Find out what it really takes to be beautiful in “Every BODY matters,” on page 14.
Jeans and a Cute Top Shop are enough to inspire you to spice up that wardrobe by resurrecting a little ’90s grunge, ’80s glam or ’70s hippie chick/disco queen! Also on the style front, Batavia-based Water Street Studios is weaving together art and fashion for its next big exhibit, entitled “Eye of the Beholder.” Find out more, on Page 46. In health and fitness, we’re exploring the aerial arts and discovering what it takes to get you avid runners (and novices, alike) ready for race season. For all of you wine enthusiasts, we’ve got the scoop on Vintage 53 – a new spot to sip and savor your favorite varietals in downtown St. Charles. There’s a lot happening this season, so let’s kiss winter goodbye and bring on the spring! Thanks for reading,
Published by Shaw Media 333 N. Randall Road, Suite 2 St. Charles, IL 60174 Phone: 630-845-5288 www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
DIRECTOR OF NICHE PUBLISHING Laura Shaw 630-427-6213 lshaw@shawmedia.com EDITOR Kara Silva 630-427-6209 ksilva@shawmedia.com
In “Fashion through the Ages,” three local boutiques provided decade-inspired spring style that’s both fun and fashion-forward. Part nostalgic, part trendy, these throwback threads currently hanging on the racks at Jori and June, Ivy Love Boutique and
Kara Silva, Editor
DESIGNER Carol Manderfield 630-427-6253 cmanderfield@shawmedia.com ACCOUNT MANAGERS Sandra Petti 630-313-0251 spetti@shawmedia.com
on the
COVER Three local boutiques gave decade-inspired garments a contemporary twist for spring. In Fashion through the Ages, on Page 8, see how this flashback to the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s is both fashion-forward and fun! Photo by RON MCKINNEY Salon Services by MARIO TRICOCI
6 | APRIL 2017 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
Tricia Walter 630-845-5272 twalter@shawmedia.com CORRESPONDENTS Melissa Riske, Kelsey O’Connor, Kevin Druley, Yvonne Benson, Allison Horne, Peter Stadalsky, Allison Manley PHOTOGRAPHERS Ron McKinney, Missy Donovan, Nancy Merkling
Kane County Magazine is available by subscription for $24 a year. If you would like each month’s edition mailed to your home, send payment information and address to Kane County Magazine, 7717 S. Route 31, Crystal Lake, IL 60014 or via email at subscriptions@shawmedia.com.
www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
Spr & Summr…. r ju rud h rr! Let us help you get started on your projects, NOW, so there is time to plan and complete them before the arrival of Summer! Whether it is new siding, a deck and outdoor kitchen, windows or a fresh new fr front entrance to welcome friends…. Call or email us TODAY!
Kitchens Baths Basements Siding Windows Doors Rooms Additions Three Season Rooms Decks Architectural Enhancements (inside & out) Whole House Remodels The McDowell team looks forward to helping you through every step of the process...so your home will be what you’ve dreamed of & more!
630-584-2255 McDowellinc@sbcglobal.net 521 West Main Street St. Charles Since 1971, McDowell has remodeled the exterior and interior of thousands of homes in the St. Charles and Fox Valley area. We would love the opportunity to work with you & your family on your home!
LIKE ou Fcbook pg, fo ufu fo bou you om & poo of pojc
FASHION THROUGH THE AGES When it comes to fashion, trends from yesteryear have a tendency to resurface on the style spectrum. By revisiting your favorite era, and giving a tired look a contemporary twist, you can be fashionforward while also injecting a little nostalgia into your wardrobe. With a little legwork, local style enclaves Jori and June, Jeans and a Cute Top Shop and Ivy Love Boutique flipped through their racks to find several on-trend throwback threads from the ’70s, ’80s and ’90s. And with hair and makeup help from Mario Tricoci salon, old trends were given life anew. Fashion is supposed to be fun! So, before refreshing your closet for spring, consider these decade-inspired looks.
'70s JORI AND JUNE 25 S. 3RD ST., GENEVA 630-457-5505 WWW.JORIANDJUNE.COM
PHOTOGRAPHER - RON MCKINNEY MODEL - ALEXANDRA BUSENITZ SALON SERVICES - MARIO TRICOCI IN CRYSTAL LAKE STYLIST - IVET MAKEUP - DAVINA
IVY LOVE BOUTIQUE 123 W. STATE ST., GENEVA 630-309-1575
www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
JORI AND JUNE 25 S. 3RD ST., GENEVA 630-457-5505 | WWW.JORIANDJUNE.COM
FASHION & BEAUTY
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2017 | 9
‘80s PHOTOGRAPHER - RON MCKINNEY MODEL - OLIVIA DESORMEY SALON SERVICES - MARIO TRICOCI IN GENEVA STYLIST - HARPER MAKEUP - LUNA
IVY LOVE BOUTIQUE 123 W. STATE ST., GENEVA 630-309-1575
www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
JEANS AND A CUTE TOP SHOP 161 S. 1ST ST., ST. CHARLES 630-444-0999 | JEANSANDACUTETOPSHOP.COM
FASHION & BEAUTY
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2017 | 11
JORI AND JUNE 25 S. 3RD ST., GENEVA 630-457-5505 | WWW.JORIANDJUNE.COM PHOTOGRAPHER - RON MCKINNEY MODEL - OLIVIA LEDINSKY SALON SERVICES - MARIO TRICOCI IN CRYSTAL LAKE STYLIST - SHAWNA MAKEUP - STEPHANIE
JEANS AND A CUTE TOP SHOP 161 S. 1ST ST., ST. CHARLES 630-444-0999 | JEANSANDACUTETOPSHOP.COM
www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
FASHION & BEAUTY
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2017 | 13
Every
BODY matters What is beauty? Professionals discuss society’s obsession with perfection. By KELSEY O’CONNOR
It has been said that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. Beauty trends come and go. But everyone has their own definition of beauty. This ideal often is molded to fit the standards defined by the media, celebrities, advertisements, friends and family. And with so many competing ideals, it’s difficult to feel like you ever measure up. It’s no secret that America is obsessed with beauty, and this fascination can have a profound impact on how we judge our own appearances. We asked five local professionals in various fields to weigh in on the topic of beauty. They provided first-hand experiences related to beauty standards and how it impacts their work and lives.
Here are some of their insights on what it means to be beautiful:
JENNIFER HEIN PLASTIC AND RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGEON The Women’s Institute of Cosmetic and Laser Surgery | Geneva Q: How do you think beauty is defined today? A: There is no one answer; it really depends on the individual. The perception of what was once considered classically beautiful is now changing. Beauty to me is seeing a patient love how they look because it’s how they themselves want to look. Q: How do these beauty standards influence your work? A: I have always tried to influence patients to embrace and work with their own personal beauty and not to try and emulate how they think society or others around them want them to look. Our philosophy is that everyone has their own natural beauty, and we focus on improving these characteristics and/or making the person aware of them. Q: What would you say to people who think plastic surgery is shallow? A: Women are very aware of what they love about their appearance and what they may hate. Naturallooking results through plastic surgery can help
14 | APRIL 2017 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
FASHION & BEAUTY
www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
A: The media and Hollywood have, for many years, dictated or heavily influenced the physical standards of beauty. The reality today, however, is that the average women is not a size 0 and that’s a good thing. There appears to be a change happening and healthy-sized women are beginning to dictate what the standard of beauty is. The more women can feel comfortable with their body the better. Q: How can women overcome the pressure to meet beauty standards? A: Pressure can come from anywhere and everywhere. But the reality is the only opinion any woman should care about is her own. Although most of us appreciate an honest compliment now and then, comfort with one’s appearance should come from their own opinion of themselves and not from anywhere else. There is nothing more positive than seeing a woman who is truly comfortable with her body and her appearance.
-Continued on page 16
www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
25 S Third St. Geneva www.joriandjune.com
CITY AUTO • From Major Collision Damage to Minor Dent & Scratch Repair
• Paintless Repair Hours: Monday–Friday 7:30–5:30pm Saturday 9:00–11:00am
630-584-5115 TriCity Auto, Inc. EST 1972 110 N. Randall Rd. St. Charles tricityautoinc.com FASHION & BEAUTY
Rt. 64
Time for Spring Clean-Up Skyline Tree Service was established in 1988 and is family owned and operated. After 29 years of service, we still hold strong to our original commitment to excellence to provide our customers with quality tree care services
• Lifetime Warranty
* Randall Rd.
Q: How does the media impact how your patients view beauty?
New Season New Look
TRI
many women gain confidence about their appearance. Parts of their body that they don’t like can be reshaped and features that they love can be enhanced. It can be empowering to have confidence about how you look.
SM-CL0386764
Removal • Lawn Service Emergency Services • Tree Trimming Stump Removal • Landscaping Plant Health Care 630-584-2221 | WWW.SKYLINETREESVC.COM
Residential, Commercial and Municipal
SM-CL0386761
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2017 | 15
-Continued from page 15
LAUREN HEWELL FISCHER
JAMIE KRUSE
SHARI HELMIG
M.D., PLASTIC SURGEON Aesthetic and Reconstructive Plastic Surgery | St. Charles
MSW, LCSW, PSYCHOTHERAPIST AND OWNER Jkrusetherapy | St. Charles
HAIR COLORIST/STYLIST AND MAKEUP ARTIST Beautiful You Salon and Spa | St. Charles
Q: How do your patients measure beauty?
Q: How do your clients view beauty standards?
Q: What changes have you been seeing in beauty trends?
A: Patients feel most beautiful when they feel their sense of self is in balance. For example, I have found that many patients seeking facial rejuvenation surgery say that how good they feel on the inside is no longer projected on the outside. Due to normal facial changes that occur with aging, people are perceived as tired, crabby or sad. By restoring a more youthful facial appearance, I create a harmonious balance between the inside and outside, which helps people feel more beautiful.
A: Different clients measure beauty differently. I see many clients that suffer with eating disorders and, to them, beauty lies in the number on the scale. I see a lot of adolescents who measure their beauty by comparing how they look to their peers. Others may measure their beauty compared to what they see in the media.
A: I think we’ve evolved to a point where we’re always wanting more and wanting it faster. People want constant change. Hair color trends are changing so fast. It used to be more of a seasonal change, but more and more clients want something different with every salon visit. There’s also a need for instant gratification. For instance, we don’t need to grow our hair anymore; we can just put in extensions whether it’s for a night or for a few months.
Q: How has your work impacted how you define beauty? A: It has broadened my definition of beauty and given me a deeper appreciation of what beauty means to other people. During training, plastic surgeons spend countless hours developing a critical eye for balance, symmetry and ideal proportions. My experience as a plastic surgeon has solidified the importance of balance in creating and restoring a human form that is beautiful.
Q: What has the most influence on how people define beauty? A: I think the media has a lot of negative influence on how we see beauty. There is so much pressure today on our young girls, and boys, to look perfect and to compare themselves to what they see on TV. And the media often portrays unrealistic standards. Q: What impact do these standards have on mental health?
A: When we see “the perfect body,” we have negative thoughts that start to enter our heads about our own bodies. The negative thinking can be very difficult to get out of our heads, and this makes it difficult to be happy with ourselves. Q: How does the media impact beauty This can negatively impact self-esteem, which standards? may affect one’s overall health, relationships and school and work performance. It can also lead to A: The media significantly impacts beauty depression, anxiety, eating disorders and more. standards. We are in an era of smartphones, Being preoccupied with appearance also takes which makes it difficult to escape the media. away from appreciating the beauty around us. If Additionally, social media has created an we are always thinking about the way we look, environment where individuals are easily capable of producing media. These factors, along we are never truly present. with the ability to easily alter pictures, means Q: How can people overcome these more and more artificially enhanced images are negative influences on how they view frequently viewed. their own beauty? Q: Do these outside influences on how we A: You have to learn to change your thought view beauty have a positive or negative process. This means learning how to stop influence on body image? judging and labeling yourself. Changing the way we think can help us discover self-compassion. A: Developing a positive body image continues We are our own worst critics, and the voice in to be a challenge for young women. While our head is often not so nice. You should treat the media, one’s peers and self-pressure can yourself with the same kindness, compassion, negatively influence one’s body image, these caring, that you would show to a good friend. same sources can also have a positive impact. I Loving yourself is key. have been particularly impressed by numerous companies’ emphasis on healthy body image in recent advertising campaigns. I feel these campaigns help women of all ages build a positive body image. 16 | APRIL 2017 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
BUSINESS & CIVIC
Q: How do your clients define and measure beauty? A: I have clients from ages 4 to 84 and each age range is different. Teens are very peer-oriented. They want to look like each other and have the same look as their best friend. The 20 to 35 age range is very social media driven, but they’re also looking for who they are as individuals. Then my clients over 35 are often professionals who want something classic and easy to style. Q: How do you help your clients overcome insecurities about their appearance? A: It’s about finding your positives. What do you like when you look in the mirror? Then we accentuate that and go from there. Almost every the time I meet a new client, they start by touching the part of their hair they dislike the most. The top insecurities are hair loss and aging. I can guide them toward the right cut, color, makeup and skin care products that will help them achieve a younger look. Q: What does beauty mean to you? A: I think finding your confidence is the most important thing. We women are hard on ourselves and sometimes on each other. This business can be viewed as so superficial and frivolous, and I don’t feel I’m either of those. I love makeup and hair color and how they can bring out your confidence. I’m trying to pass that along to the women in my life.
www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
KARLIN KOSINSKI
Flip Family Hair Care Walk-ins W l k i welcome l or call l l ffor appt. Post your local event on our community board!
PILATES INSTRUCTOR Fox River Pilates Center | Geneva
We are proud to be a locally owned and operated business!
Q: What do you think is considered beautiful in America today?
Adult Haircut ........... $14.00 Children ..................... $12.00 (12 and younger) Senior ......................... $11.00 Color Starting at...... $49.00 Partial Highlight..... $65.00 Full Highlight............ $95.00
A: American beauty standards are changing every day. I think that women are embracing that we all are different and that we come in all shapes and sizes. Through those differences women are becoming more confident in their own skin and that’s beautiful. Q: How can exercise help women feel more beautiful? A: Exercise, like Pilates, can help women feel beautiful by building their strength and by developing a strong mind-body connection. It allows them to accept where they are today and get closer to where they want to be in the future. Q: What’s a better motivation for getting fit: looking better, being healthier or both?
Always Looking for
TALENTED STYLISTS! Stylists: Esther, Hazel, Megan, Dawn, Sara & Walter
SM-CL0384787
500 Lark Street, Geneva, IL 60134
630-232-8200
Hours: Closed Mondays | Tues. - Fri. : 9am-8pm Sat. : 9am-5pm • Sun. : 10am-4pm
A: People tend to inspire themselves to exercise in order to stay fit and feel healthy. And when you’re motivated to get fit, you will also start to see improvements in the way your body looks and feels. It’s a win-win situation. But it’s not enough just to show up. You need to be fully invested in the process and that’s when real change will happen. Q: How has your work helped make you feel more beautiful? A: When I started Pilates I was active, but I didn’t feel strong. I had back pain from a past injury, and I had bad posture. Every time I would finish a Pilates class, I felt amazing and strong and that feeling stayed with me throughout my day – and the next. I started to shift my focus from the number on the scale to the strength and empowerment I felt after each class. Every day is a new chance to become my better self. Q: What beauty advice would you give your clients? A: Create your own beauty standards! We are all different – that’s what makes us beautiful.
www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
A boutique where Fashion comes alive in Fabric and Form Friendly service and a comfortable setting to making shopping an enjoyable experience.
219 W. State St, Geneva 630 457 5445 ~ evernia219.com
Hours: Tuesday-Saturday 10-5 | Sunday 12-4 Closed Monday FASHION & BEAUTY
like us on
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2017 | 17
Vanishing Ink
Tattoo removal center expands services to include skin rejuvenation By YVONNE BENSON | Photos by MISSY DONOVAN
D
bothering me, too, and I’m kind of interested in Botox,’” Gibson says. “We also offer a professional skin care line as well, Jan Marini. Everything complements each other.”
uring the summer, we all love to indulge in the warmth of the outdoors. As the hot sun kisses our skin, it receives the warmest of welcomes. Though it may feel great, it sure is doing a number on our skin. But sun damage can be repaired with skin treatments. The treatments can have multiple benefits, from glowing skin to giving precious time back to us, as we spend less time in the morning covering up blemishes, acne scars or sun spots. “It’s as important as getting your teeth cleaned,” says Diane Gibson, co-owner of Vanishing Ink Laser Aesthetics Center in St. Charles. She explains that people do maintenance on their teeth and the same sort of care should be given to their skin. “Our skin is our body’s largest organ system,” says Gibson. “It protects us from the elements, and does so much for our health and beauty. But, just like with your teeth, it benefits from a good skin care regimen.” Gibson describes her center as a med spa.
She owns the center with her husband, Dr. Mark Gibson, who does free consultations. Aesthetician Bailey Johnson does facials and some of the treatments at the center, too. “We’re a one-stop shop for skin care solutions,” Gibson says. “We can take care of sun spots, fine lines, stretch marks and other skin concerns that you’re just not happy with.” Vanishing Ink Laser Aesthetics Center is well known for tattoo removal, but it offers much more. “A person might come in and say, ‘I’ve got this tattoo, but this hair on my face is really
One of Vanishing Ink’s clients, who – for privacy reasons – we’ll call “Marie,” first visited the center because she heard that it offered quality facials. Marie continued to visit the center after her initial treatment because, she says, the center offers the best facials she has ever had. “I notice a difference,” says Marie. “I love my skin; it’s so soft – especially after the facial. It feels good for days afterwards. I feel good about it.” Marie also has used the laser hair removal service, but she was initially hesitant to try it again after she had been burned during treatment at a different establishment. “I talked to [Diane and Dr. Gibson] about it and they said that they use totally different equipment that’s state of the art,” Marie says. “I had no burns at all. It was very effective, and I was very, very happy with it.” Diane Gibson says that she really enjoys interacting with clients. “We get to know them because they come back to us,” she says. “We like to be involved with our patients. Bailey [Johnson] has regular clients, so she gets to know their skin and them personally, as well.”
IF YOU GO
VANISHING INK LASER AESTHETICS CENTER 2020 Dean St., Unit L2B | St. Charles 630-549-7440 | vanishinginklaser.com HOURS: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Wednesday; 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday; and 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday 18 | APRIL 2017 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
BUSINESS & CIVIC
www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
MEET THE BOSS
Geneva resident Tiffany Cornell starts successful business in male-dominated field By MELISSA RUBALCABA RISKE | Photo by RON MCKINNEY
L
ooking back on the decision to form her own business, Tiffany Cornell, 33, of Geneva says that encouragement from her family and friends meant everything.
dominated industry has meant working harder and smarter.
“I was terrified of making that leap,” Cornell says.
Additionally, Cornell says that she is active with Transportation Intermediaries Association, where she can meet with fellow freight brokers, network and learn from one other.
With a final push from her business partner, Ron Carmona, Cornell swept her fears aside and, in the fall of 2015, she left her job and launched PTC Logistics – a third-party brokerage firm. In February 2016, the company had its first shipment and, Cornell says, there has been no slowing down. The fledgling company has shown tremendous growth in its first year and is projected to triple in size in its second year. “Life is too short,” says Cornell. “You’re never going to experience it if you aren’t willing to make a mistake. I’m trying to live my life with no regrets.” For Cornell, creating a business is just one part of the story. She is a minority in her field, where men dominate the logistics landscape. In her first job out of college, she worked for a large firm and recalls being among a handful of women and none of them were in management positions. “To find a lot of success you have to surpass a lot of obstacles,” Cornell says. Mike Custer, former owner of Burry Foods of St. Charles, says that the logistics field has traditionally been a male-dominated field, from those orchestrating the operations in the office to managing the truck drivers responsible for transporting goods. Custer says she isn’t one to let gender stereotypes hold her back, adding that she is dedicated and hardworking. Cornell says that being a woman in a male-
www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
“As a female, you really have to know what you’re talking about,” she says.
Cornell’s says that her three young children are a true inspiration. “Becoming a mother at a young age, didn’t allow me to quit one job and move on to the next when I was in my 20s,” she says. “I had to be successful; failure was not an option.” She can remember her mother working as many as three jobs to help support the family and how she taught resilience and perseverance. “She told me I could be and do whatever I want, I just had to want it bad enough,” Cornell says. “This is the same message I have tried to instill in my children. The sky is the limit, each person can write their own destiny and future.” In her work, there are times when Cornell has to be available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, which isn’t easy as a mother of three, but Cornell says that her family has embraced her work. Her daughter, Harper, 4, has decided she will one day take over the company. “It amazes me that such young ages, they understand what it takes to own a company, and I love hearing how proud they are of me,” Cornell says.
and they will be good to you,” she says. “We are a family. My business partner, Ron, and I truly care about each of the employees and want them to enjoy this crazy ride with us.” Raised in Ohio, Cornell and her family came to the Tri-Cities through a job transfer three years ago. “We love the people and the sense of pride in both the community and the school district,” Cornell says.
It has been wonderful for Cornell, as a business owner, to see her staff develop talents and find success. “It goes back to being good to your employees,
BUSINESS & CIVIC
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2017 | 19
Flying high Aerial art studios elevate fitness regimen By ALLISON HORNE
Many of us have seen the talented acrobats of Cirque du Soleil flying high above the stage in hoops and dangling from silks suspended midair.
Hoop and lyra is another take on the aerial arts, and includes learning how to mount, spin, hang and bend while hanging from a hoop.
But aerial art is not just for the professionals. Aerial art studios are located all over the western suburbs of Chicago, providing women of all ages with an outlet to work out and express themselves in a unique way. Many have been around for years; it’s been on the rise as of late due to it becoming more publicized in movies and on stage.
“Aerial art is all-encompassing of the mind, body and spirit,” says Lynzhi Cothrine, general manager of Tease Dance and Fitness in Aurora. “It’s awesome.”
There are several different types of aerial fitness, including aerial yoga, aerial silks, and aerial hoops/lyra. Silks are the most basic form of aerial classes, in which participants learn how to sit, climb, hang, stand and do inverted straddles while hanging from a silk attached to the ceiling.
She notes that although Tease offers classes for kids ages 8 and older, many of Tease’s classes have students who are in their 30s, 40s and 50s.
Cothrine has a dance background, and found – later in life – that aerial art was something that could help her keep an athletic build and help her to stay active. It also is geared toward her age group.
Sarah Ritzman, co-owner and certified instructor at Tiger Lilly Vertical Life in Geneva, started out as a student before realizing her passion for aerial art. She Another aerial class is aerial yoga, which combines the came across the classes while going through a tough aerial arts with yoga and requires hanging from a sling. 20 | APRIL 2017 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
HEALTH & WELLNESS
www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
Â
time as a stay-at-home mom and decided she needed to do something for herself. “I fell in love with it,� Ritzman says. “It put me in the best shape of my life. I felt more balanced and had more passion in my life. I became a better woman, mom and wife.� Photos of people hanging upside-down from the ceiling and being held up by a contraption may be intimidating – and even off-putting – for anyone curious about taking a class, but most classes are suitable for beginners with no experience. “If people are curious, come in and try a class and see for yourself,� Cothrine says. “When I first started, I was nervous and
ited v n I ePUB You’rPPUBLIC UB BLIIC C OPE OPEN OPEN HOUSE HOUSE Thursday, April 13 • 10am-5pm
Refreshments Refreshm hmen hm ents ts & Tours • All Ages Welc Welcome lcom lc ome
101 S. Second Street • St. Charles
-Continued on page 22 www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
HEALTH & WELLNESS
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2017 | 21
Our customers see us as a
destination.
“I fell in love with [aerial art]. It put me in the best shape of my life. I felt more balanced and had more passion in my life. I became a better woman, mom and wife.” - Sarah Ritzman, Tiger Lilly Vertical Life co-owner and certified instructor
-Continued from page 21 didn’t know what to expect but this is a judgment-free zone.” Most studios offer small classes (think less than eight people), which allows for one-on-one interaction with the instructor.
They see a high performance bank with a high performance culture.
“It’s not a typical workout,” Ritzman says. “It’s challenging, but you’re having a lot of fun doing it while gaining strength, flexibility and coordination. You don’t realize you’re working out. It’s a trick.” While many women focus on squats and sit-ups in their regular workouts, the upper body often goes overlooked. Not in aerial. Core and upper-body strength are essential for aerial workouts, and silk and hoop workouts help to tone and strengthen those areas. “There are no prerequisites for these classes,” Ritzman says. “We teach you from the ground up. You don’t need to be strong to start and you don’t need to lose weight. We welcome all fitness levels and ages.”
St. Charles 360 South 1st Street | (630) 549-7065 | www.sterbank.com
SM-CL0386762
Full Service Bank | Customer Service Educational Seminars | Culture & History Giving Back to the Community
22 | APRIL 2017 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
HEALTH & WELLNESS
Cothrine adds that even if you don’t think you can do it, you might be surprised at what your body can do. “Yes, [students] lose weight and, yes, they are stronger, but more than anything it’s a confidence workout,” Cothrine says. “People come here because they want to feel sexy and confident, empowered and beautiful. For me, that’s what this whole thing is about.”
TOP 5 WAYS TO KEEP YOUR PET BEAUTIFUL, FASHIONABLE & HEALTHY! By Anderson Animal Shelter Featured Sponsor DePaw University Canine Campus
Your pet is an important part of your family, so they Gentle hugs or rubs (which also provide healthy benefits deserve the best care, attention and even pampering! for humans!); a kind, calm demeanor and voice; socializing Here are five simple ways to keep your furry friend with them; and positive reinforcement of good behaviors. looking and feeling his very best: • Grooming. Dogs and cats need regular brushings to keep them tangle-free and to remove excess hair, especially with springtime shedding. Trim toe nails for their comfort (and yours)! Groomers offer full-service
For other resources, visit Anderson Animal Shelter’s website for a list of our Pet Partners who offer various pet-related products and services: http://www. andersonanimalshelter.org/pet-partners.
and “spa” packages for extra TLC. • Vet visits. Schedule a once-a-year wellness checkup, including vaccinations. These appointments can also prevent or catch any potential issues. • Healthy diet. Your vet can offer recommendations for the best food to meet your pet’s nutritional needs, which may change as your furry friend ages. Plus, keep your pets well-hydrated with fresh, clean water, changed at least once daily. • Exercise. Set aside regular time to play and interact with your pet, from walks and games of fetch with dogs, or using string toys and red laser lights with cats. Playtime and interactive toys help your cat or dog hone its skills, stay fit, and relieve stress or boredom! • Love. Let your pets know you love them through simple, daily acts that can foster a great relationship:
BUBBLES AND BARKS PROFESSIONAL GROOMING BBY APPOINTMENT ONLY
WE DO W BOARDING TRAINING DAYCARE EDUCATION GROOMING
WE ALSO OFFER BASIC BATHS, TEETH BRUSHING, NAIL TRIMS, AND SELF BATHE
100 S. Glengarry Dr., Geneva, IL 60134 • 630-232-8663 • depawK9campus.com
FUN OVER 50 Local clubs, classes and meet-up groups help retirees bask in the golden years By YVONNE BENSON
S
ome retirees say that retirement is just as busy (if not busier) than working, while others have a difficult time filling the hours. If you’re living your golden years and are looking for a way to connect with the community (but not work or volunteer) or need something to occupy your time, there are plenty of events to attend and groups to join in Kane County. Park districts, religious establishments and the website www.meetup.com are great resources for meeting people and connecting over common interests. Whether you’re looking to take up a hobby, socialize or meet like-minded people, there are plenty of local clubs to help seniors stay active in the suburbs. (Some of these events and groups aren’t specifically for senior citizens, but all are welcome to attend or join.)
¢ BATAVIA ACADEMY OF DANCE www.bataviaacademyofdance.com/classes-2/ adult-classes The Batavia Academy of Dance offers many adult classes at $12 each. Participants also can purchase a discounted punch card or an all-access pass. Class offerings include lyrical/ contemporary, jazz, tap, ballet and Latin. The classes take place on weekday evenings and Saturday afternoons. ¢ NORTHWEST SUBURBS WINE/ BEER LOVERS www.meetup.com/Northwest-Suburbs-WineBeer-Lovers The Northwest Suburbs Wine/Beer Lovers is a nearly spontaneous social drinking Meet-Up club. They meet at establishments that will expose members to new and unique kinds of wine and beer. Sometimes they mix it up with activities that include drinking (think picnics and softball games) or branch out to other liquids (tequila). Hey – it’s always better to drink with friends than to drink alone at home. (Remember to be responsible and take a cab, Uber or have a designated driver.) ¢ BUSTING BOREDOM IN THE BURBS www.meetup.com/Busting-Boredom-in-theBurbs Busting Boredom in the Burbs is a Meet-Up group whose calendar is jam-packed with a cornucopia of activities that take place all over the western suburbs. The club is designed for people over the age of 40. There’s hiking, lunch at a diner, a tour of Peck Homestead, book 24 | APRIL 2017 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
discussions with a visit from the author and a class on healthy alternatives to eating meat – and that’s not even everything in the first week of March! You have to pay for some activities, but some events are free. ¢ JABBERWOCKY ON KOSHARE www.leftbank.org The Jabberwocky on Koshare in Elgin is a conversation forum. People from all backgrounds and opinions come together to discuss a set topic. The topics change for each meeting and have included politics, philosophy, mental health, marriage and death. Participants are likely to come away with a broader understanding of a topic or possibly a different opinion than when they started. The meetings are free and by invitation (you can sign up on the website). The group doesn’t offer food or drinks, but participants can bring things to share. ¢ GREATER CHICAGO AREA WHOLE FOOD NUTRITION MEETUP GROUP www.meetup.com/The-Chicago-Area-WholeFood-Nutrition-Meetup-Group The Greater Chicago Area Whole Food Nutrition Meetup Group is for people who care about healthy eating. The group typically meets monthly over a potluck. There is a topic of discussion, which has included health in popular culture in March and will include raising chickens and urban agriculture in April. Sometimes they have other events that center around healthy eating, such as the Community Supported Agriculture Expo.
HEALTH & WELLNESS
¢ ELGIN AREA CAMERA CLUB www.elginareacameraclub.com The Elgin Camera Club meets at 7:30 p.m. the second and fourth Tuesday of every month, running from September through May. The first meeting of the month is a program and the second is a competition. Program topics include Art vs. Technology in March and Ziatype in April. The meetings are open to the public and welcome photographers of all levels. The annual dues are $30. ¢ SENIOR SERVICES ASSOCIATES seniorservicesassoc.org/locations/aurora-kanecounty/ Elgin and Aurora are fortunate enough to have senior centers that offer many services – such as care coordination, home repair and transportation – and a busy calendar of activities. Many of the activities are free and low-key (think coloring and jig-saw puzzles), but most are social (like bingo). Clients can offer suggestions for additional activities. ¢ FOX VALLEY PARK DISTRICT www.foxvalleyparkdistrict.org/events/primetimes The Prisco Community Center of the Fox Valley Park District offers programs specifically catered to people active adults age 55 or older. Social activities include potlucks and games (cards, bingo and Bunco). The Friendly Center Club, which originated in 1951 and has more than 250 members, meets at noon every Thursday at the Prisco center. Activities include holiday and themed parties and special interest guess speakers. www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
Ready to Take Your Fitness to the Next Level? NEW
Ignite Small Group Training Designed to Take Your Body to the Limit Priced affordably.
630.938.9100 delnorhfc.com TTY for the hearing impaired 630.933.4833.
Ready? Set. Run! Whether you’re a novice or an avid runner, race your best this season By KEVIN DRULEY
26 | APRIL 2017 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
Citing the idiom “Don’t try to run before you can walk” may seem counterintuitive to an article about running, but the spirit of the phrase actually helps shape Eric Ott’s philosophy for new or returning runners. Take it from Ott, the founder of Geneva Running Outfitters – building a base progressively is strongly advised.
Ott, for instance, advocates that new runners run three times a week for 10 weeks, incrementally boosting their distance with each outing. After that, the athlete should be able to run for 30 continuous minutes, and can choose to add further workout time from there.
“I really wouldn’t look at saying, ‘I need to run seven days a week.’ That’s really just kind of asking for trouble,” Ott says. “But then having “The biggest pitfalls we always see is people some sort of progression goals: ‘I want to trying to do too much, too soon,” Ott says. run three days a week’ [or] ‘I don’t want the “Thinking you have to do more to get better; thinking the old cliché ‘No pain, no gain.’ No pain weather to stop me.’ Things that really can’t be quantified in a sense of times or anything like equals good; pain equals bad.” that.” As with every spring, an influx of runners, who are primed to traverse many miles of Fox Valley Although some have navigated long runs pavement, will take to the outdoors this month. by alternative measures – 2011 Fox Valley Marathon champion Tim Cunningham covered The key for those just starting out with the the course barefoot – shoes are undoubtedly a sport is to remain patient. vital part of the journey. HEALTH & WELLNESS
www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
RACE ROUNDUP Ready to run? Here are five spring and summer races in Kane County: ¢ APRIL 22 Verizon Sly Fox Half Madness (half-marathon) and 10K St. Charles www.slyfoxhalf.com 630.306.8604 ¢ APRIL 29 Batavia Mothers’ Club Foundation 17th annual Fox Trot 5K and10K Batavia www.bataviamothersclub. org/events/trot-5k-and10k 630-748-1501 ¢ MAY 21 Rosary High School 17th annual Road Scholars 5K Ott, however, warns against adhering too closely to the “archaic” viewpoint that one, ultimate, right kind of shoe exists for each given runner. Counterpart Glen Kamps, manager of Dick Pond Athletics in St. Charles and a longtime running fixture in the region, agrees. It’s all about the consultation between runner and running store employee, he says. “We look at their feet and analyze their gait and make appropriate decisions in conference with them,” Kamps says. “It’s not me telling them that this is the best shoe for you, but trying to take a look.” When it comes to cushioning, the Geneva Running Outfitters staff favors a weather-related analogy to explain its individual-based rationale. Why go outside in a parka when it’s 80 degrees, just in the event it might snow? Why leave the house in a swimsuit on a 20-degree day just in case the temperature climbs?
www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
“The same thing is true of shoes,” Ott says. “You don’t need any more or any less shoe than you actually need. We want that person to be able to move naturally with the right amount of support. That’s what we do. And more than just us saying ‘this is what you need,’ you really have to listen to the person for them to say, ‘I really like when a shoe feels like this.’ Well, we’re the experts on what the shoes feel like, so we can say, ‘Yeah, this is what we think should work in conjunction with what you like in a shoe,’ and we find some shoes for people that most likely will work for people.”
Aurora www.rosaryhs.com/5Krun
Various stores offer in-house running groups or can provide advice or referrals. Dick Pond, for instance, offers groups that cater to different paces and forms, in addition to schedules.
St. Charles www.notallwoundsbleed. com/events 708-738-1557
¢ JUNE 3 Race to Market 5K Batavia downtownbatavia.com 630-761-3528 ¢ JUNE 10 Not All Wounds Bleed 5K (Raises awareness of PTSD)
“You give a runner a shoe, and he can run for a day,” Kamps says. “You give him a shoe and a program, he can run for the rest of his life.” HEALTH & WELLNESS
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2017 | 27
Why sump pumps fail you when you need them most
Why do sump pumps seem to fail to work at the most inopportune times? Yours may be running on its last leg and ready to “kick the bucket.” All sump pumps fail. This simple truth should provoke every homeowner to march right downstairs and take a proactive look at his or her sump pump immediately.
■ QUESTIONS TO ASK
• How much water is being held in the pit? • Is the water pumped all of the way down to the bottom of the pump, or is the pit holding too much water? • Is the float obstructed? • Does the check valve clunk when it shuts off? • What happens to the water when it is discharged outside?
■ WHY SUMP PUMPS FAIL Are you in your basement looking at your sump pump? Now ask yourself the following questions: Aside from the obvious failure due to a power outage, here are five basic reasons sump pumps • How old is this sump pump? fail to work when they are needed most: • Is the pump the original pump? • Idleness is hard on a sump pump. Sump • How reliable does it look? pumps only last six to eight years. You may be 28 | APRIL 2017 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
HOME & LIFESTYLE
saying to yourself, “But, Tom, it hardly ever runs. How could it possibly fail me?” And you know what? Sitting idly may actually be worse for the pump. Not working often can shorten the life of the pump. • Floats and check valves fail. New pumps come with dual floats that can be calibrated to the characteristics of the pit itself. Remember, the height of the water level in your pit is equal to the height of the water level all around your foundation. The lower this water level, the greater the head start you’ll have when heavy rains fall or there is heavy snow melt. Dual floats actually use two separate floats. They
www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
Does Your Sump Pump Go Bump In the Night? WARNING SIGNS: • Klunking or Bumping • Humming & Growling • Frequently Turning On & Off
Protect your Home!
are designed this way so that if the first float fails, the second one will take over. An alarm will sound to let you know your sump pump is operating on the second float.
Pro Series Primary Sump Pump with Battery Powered Back Up System
ONLY $1,438
• Floats get hung up on debris. Some older floats rise on a tether cord with the water. If they are too close to the side of the pit, or debris has found its way into the pit, they can get stuck. This is why many basements flood every year. Nails, a rag, a paint can lid and all kinds of undesirable items from the original construction are possible sump pump float obstructions. • Springs and check valve flaps wear out. Listen to the check valve. If it clunks when it shuts off, it’s possible the spring or check valve flap are worn. That clunk means your sump pump is living on borrowed time. It will slowly get louder over time and then quit all of a sudden, like when you are gone on vacation. (Of course!) • Buried pipes become obstructed. Sometimes the water being discharged outside your home bubbles right back into a window well and back into the sump pump pit. But when water flows over the top and onto the ground, this indicates the pipe buried underground is most likely obstructed.
Tom Wangler Jr. is president and 2nd generation heating and cooling specialist of Confident Aire located at 416 E. Wilson St., Batavia. For more information call 630-7619007 or visit www.confidentaire.com
INSTALLED*
*PS-C33 model includes maintenance free gel battery
New TRANE A/Cs Call Us For...
• Hot Water Heater Installation & Repair • Plumbing & Water Repairs • Heating & Cooling • Home Air Quality Improvements • Air Cleaners & Filters • Energy Saving Solutions • Commercial Heating & Cooling
No Interest Financing Through May of
2022! *
*Call for details
BBB Rating: A+
Your Trusted Home Comfort Professionals Since 1992
Call us today! 630-761-9007 *Call for details.
www.confidentaire.com
IL Plumbing License: 055-042701 SM-CL0384786
www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
HOME & LIFESTYLE
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2017 | 29
Clear the clutter Garage sales turn your ‘trash’ into another’s treasures By ALLISON HORNE
Spring is here, which means that it’s time to start the dreaded process of cleaning everything out – your closets, cabinets, storage unit and garage. While cleaning things out may be miserable, it’s a very necessary process that can be turned into something fun and lucrative if you decide to host a garage or yard sale. Lizzy Evensen, who is responsible for marketing and working on the website for the Batavia Fireworks Fund, has been working behind the scenes of the 24th annual Citywide Garage Sale. What once started as a handful of homes now features more than 200 sales featured on an interactive map divided by categories. “You can hold a sale anytime in Batavia for free, but for a $35 donation to the fireworks, you get your name on the maps,” Evensen says. “We do press releases and free marketing; we give garage sale signs, balloons and everyone who does a sale gets a flower.”
great for guests and helps keep kids busy during the event. Although sometimes it can be difficult to get rid of items, Evensen has a trick to selecting what stays and what goes. “If you haven’t touched it in a year, consider throwing it in your sale,” she says. “Another person’s trash is another person’s treasure.” Usually, not everything sells during a garage sale. Rather than lugging the items back into the house or throwing them out, consider donating them. Lorraine Parisi, retail operations director for the St. Vincent de Paul Chicago Council, which has been around since 1857, is an advocate of donating gently used items. “Our mission is to help those in need,” Parisi says. “We want to help the poor and create systemic change; it’s all about serving others.”
Every donation to St. Vincent de Paul helps people in need in the community, including those A combined garage sale, whether it be citywide or with the neighbors in you cul-de-sac, is a great who cannot afford to buy items they need for their home, such as furniture and clothing. The way to receive a bigger draw and bring more organization works with a voucher system, which traffic to your property. – after a counseling service – provides assistance “Everyone makes money on garage sales,” Evensen with food, utilities, rent or other items. says. “It’s a great fundraising idea.” “My personal rule of thumb is that if you haven’t Evensen says that she has hosted garage used it in a year, donate it,” Parisi says. “If you no sales of her own and never prices longer use it, but it’s not garbage, donate it.” items because she’d rather have St. Vincent’s has a plethora of drop boxes all over someone make her an offer. the Chicago area, as well as multiple thrift stores, “You have to remember it’s a garage which also take donations. It does offer a pickup sale,” Evensen says. “You are not service if you have three or more large items. The going to get what you paid for it. So, Salvation Army and Goodwill are two more options how much is it worth to not bring it for donating gently used items. back into the house?” “Don’t give us your garbage,” Parisi says. “We Something that also can help boost provide these items to our clients and help people garage sale attendance is posting the who are low income level and in need, but we sale online on websites like Craigslist or serve them with dignity. If it’s something you Facebook. would use yourself, we’ll take it.” Signs posted all over the neighborhood can Whether you’re making a little bit of cash or help attract attention to a garage sale, but making donations to help others in the community, Evensen says that it’s fun to spice things a little bit of spring cleaning and a garage sale can up with a lemonade stand, which is go a long way.
¢ DONATION LOCATIONS ST. VINCENT DE PAUL SOCIETY Various locations | svdpusa.org GOODWILL 2750 E. Main St., St. Charles | 630-513-5681 | amazinggoodwill.com 450 N. Randall Road, Batavia | 630-761-8049 | amazinggoodwill.com THE SALVATION ARMY 2067 Lincoln Hwy., St. Charles | 800-728-7825 | satruck.org SAVERS 230 W. Virginia St., No. 50, Crystal Lake | 815-444-0276 | savers.com AMVETS Various locations | ilamvets.org | 708-388-7800 30 | APRIL 2017 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
HOME & LIFESTYLE
www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
Local Citywide Garage Sales GENEVA CITYWIDE ABC GARAGE SALE 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, April 28, and Saturday, April 29 The Geneva Chamber of Commerce will host a citywide sale to help residents clean out their attics, basements and closets. For those interested in participating, fees are $25 before April 18, which includes advertising and signs. The fee helps take care of production costs for the 2017 Swedish Days Grand Parade. For more information, visit genevachamber.com or call 630-2326060.
ST. CHARLES COMMUNITY GARAGE SALE 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, April 21, and Saturday, April 22 Be a part of the St. Charles Community Garage Sale and raise money from your goods, as well as money for the STC Underground Teen Center. Before April 14, fees are $20 per garage sale or $30 after that date. Fees include one balloon and one sign, but additional signs and balloons are available for purchase. For more information, visit stcparks. org or call 630-513-4321.
BATAVIA FIREWORKS CITYWIDE GARAGE SALE 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, May 5, and Saturday, May 6 For $35, Batavia residents are invited to participate in Batavia’s 24th annual citywide garage sale, which benefits the Batavia Fireworks Fund. The fee includes maps, signs, balloons and advertisement. For more information, visit bataviafireworks.org or email info@ bataviafireworks.org.
www.ReamsMeatMarket.com Fine Quality Meats & Sausages Fresh • Aged • Cured • Smoked 250 S. Main St. (Rt. 47) • Elburn South of the tracks • 630.365.6461 Hours: Mon-Fri: 9am-6pm • Sat: 9am-4pm • Sun: 10am-4pm
A GREAT OLD FASHIONED FULL SERVICE MEAT MARKET
SM-CL0355910
www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
HOME & LIFESTYLE
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2017 | 31
ENIOR ORTRAITS
121 S. MAIN ST. | ALGONQUIN, IL 847-989-2782RONMCKINNEYPHOTO.COM
inc.
Connecting Kids through Play
REGISTER FOR SUMMER PROGRAMS NOW! Education and Adventure Program collaboration with
Full/Part Day Extended Day and More!
FL FLOORING
Ages 15 Months - School Age
www.kidsconnection.info • 630-587-9400 2011 Dean Street, St. Charles • SE corner Dean & Randall Roads
Times and Fees on our Web site Now.
In-Stock Specials
Get it Tomorrow! 0% for 2 Years Financing
*With approved credit see store for details
Retire on your terms.
We have it all!
Since 1894, Ameriprise Financial has worked for our clients’ futures, helping millions of Americans retire on their terms. Doing what they want. When they want. Let’s talk about how you can begin to put a confident retirement more within reach, call me today at 630.762.6556. Steve Smith Financial Advisor Associate Vice President
* Free Measuring and Estimates * Locally Owned for Over 30 Years * 100s of Choices for Every Budget * We Make Custom Area Rugs
You Can AFFORD to Be Floored at Tri-State Carpet and Floor!
3 N Second St, Ste 200 St. Charles, IL 60174 630.762.6556 steven.l.smith@ampf.com ameripriseadvisors.com/steven.smith
Investment advisory products and services are made available through Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc., a registered investment adviser. Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. Member FINRA and SIPC. © 2014 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved. (7/14)
www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
Carpet - Hardwood - Tile & Stone Laminate - Luxury Vinyl - Area Rugs
HOME & LIFESTYLE
Tri-State Carpet & Floor 1525 Fleetwood Drive Elgin, IL 60123
(847) 695-2211 Find Us - Just South of 20 at McLean Blvd in Elgin
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2017 | 33
Spring renewal
NEW PLANTS TO INTRODUCE INTO THE GARDEN With MEAGAN PROVENCHER
Certain characteristics – In many retail industries, spring tends to bring with it new stock. The plant world is no different. such as disease resistance, However, what IS different about the plant world larger flowers, brighter fall color, is that plants don’t turn quickly. It can take years moisture resistance, lack of seeds and fruits, longer bloom times, repeat blooming to bring a new plant to market. – show up in new varieties. Every year there are Oftentimes we forget that we are dealing with new introductions, and we try to stay aware living things, and they don’t always follow the of them in order to make them available to human timeline. Did you know that it can take customers. up to 30 years to bring a new species of tree Here are a few new tree and shrub to market? New shrub introductions, such as hydrangeas or lilacs can take five to 10 years. introductions to look for in 2017: Much research and trialing goes into new plant production. Plant breeders need to make sure that these new offspring can hold their weight in the garden. Something may be hardy in California, but is it hardy in the Midwest? Would it sell well if it had dried brown flowers stuck to it after it finished flowering? Does it perform well during times of stress? Does it have seeds that fall off all over the ground? I’ve come to appreciate new species introductions as I know that hard work and research has gone into bringing them to us so that we can use them in landscapes and recommend them to customers. Of course there have been some duds over the years, but generally, new plants that are introduced have better qualities than their original counterparts.
■ 'ESPRESSO' KENTUCKY COFFEETREE Large, tough shade tree with graceful leaves and branching structure ■ 'KINDRED SPIRIT' OAK Tall, narrow tree, great for skinny spots, screening, 6 feet wide by 30 feet tall, tight form ■ 'FIREFALL' MAPLE Fast growing, bright red fall color, deeply cut leaves, exceptional cold hardiness ■ 'MERLOT' REDBUD Dark burgundy foliage with excellent drought resistance, deep pink flowers, 15 feet by 15 feet ■ 'VIKING' BLACK CHOKEBERRY Masses of white fragrant flowers, glossy foliage, deep red fall color, excellent berries for birds (or
pie!), trouble free, low maintenance, good source of nectar for pollinators ■ 'ARCTIC FIRE' RED TWIG DOGWOOD Bright red stems in winter, smaller stature, good performer ■ 'CRIMSON KISSES' WEIGELA Prolific re-bloomer with dark pink/red blooms, compact grower to 3 feet ■ 'INCREDIBALL BLUSH' HYDRANGEA Pink version of a favorite, strong stems prohibit flopping, large showy plant, easy to grow and versatile in the landscape ■ 'BERRY POPPINS' HOLLY Dwarf habit, deciduous, heavy berry display in winter, needs ‘Mr. Poppins’ to get fruit, these small shrubs are a great addition for winter interest and wildlife
Let Us Take Care of All Your
Landscaping Needs
• Landscape Design & Installation • 10-Acre Garden Center • Tree Planting • 140-Acre Retail Nursery • Greenhouses
Ask about our 3 Year Guarantee
Since 1925 Wasco Nursery has been known for its highquality, locally-grown plant and landscape material, expert advice and professional installation and design services. No home is complete without beautiful landscaping. Choose from several design options to determine the process that best fits your project. Visit us today @ wasconursery.com
■ 'DOUBLE PLAY BLUE KAZOO' SPIREA Burgundy new growth over stunning blue/ green foliage, white flowers, deep red fall color, easy care – NOT your grandma’s spirea! Meagan Provencher is the Senior Landscape Designer for Wasco Nursery & Garden Center in St. Charles. She can be reached at 630-584-4424 or design@wasconursery. com.
“Meeting your growing needs since 1925.”
41W781 Route 64 | St. Charles | 630-584-4424 | wasconursery.com SM-CL0355921
HOME & LIFESTYLE
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2017 | 35
Vintage
53
New social spot raises the (wine) bar in downtown St. Charles By KEVIN DRULEY Photos by NANCY MERKLING
36 | APRIL 2017 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
Home appliance repairman turned restaurant owner Mario Grado purposely bypassed purchasing a microwave or freezer for his kitchen at the new Vintage 53 in St. Charles.
and support other business owners. So far, all of the business owners I’ve met have been very welcoming and always looking to lend a hand, whether it be donating resources or spreading the word.”
Grado insists upon using fresh and locally-sourced ingredients for guests, so he welcomes the extra interactions with vendors. Of course he would, as they’re visiting Grado’s adopted hometown.
Vintage 53, located at 162 S. 1st St., owes its name to a fusion of two Grado passions.
“It’s just a great community to be in,” says Grado. “I love living here, and I just felt if I’m going to open up a business, I would want it to be in a community that I like being a part of.” A native of New York, Grado moved to Geneva with his family in 1996. He graduated from Geneva High School four years later, but always found himself gravitating toward adjacent St. Charles during his prep years and beyond.
An aspiring restaurateur since his youth, Grado notes that “vintage” signifies the year of a winery’s vineyard harvest. The “53” is a nod to 1953, the birth year of his late father, Ben, who immensely enjoyed good conversation over a bottle of wine. Ben Grado’s enduring support of his son spurred Mario from an early age. When Ben Grado died in a car accident in early 2016, Mario didn’t hesitate to pay homage. “He always wanted me to do my best,” Grado says. “He’s heard me talk about this for 10 – or more, probably – years.”
Grado worked in appliance repair and later as a nurse assistant. He returned to school and finished a At press time, Grado said that Vintage 53 was business administration degree in his early 30s. targeting a mid-March opening. Through it all, his sentiment about St. Charles, where he officially has resided since the late 2000s, The menu features a mixture of flatbreads, small plates and cheese and charcuterie pairings. was unwavering. “I like the community feel of the city,” Grado says. “I Grado aspires to add verve and novelty to selections, love how business owners are kind of known to help he says. Offerings listed on the restaurant website, DINING & ENTERTAINING
www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
Sip Some Wine & Paint Public & Private Parties for 10-50 People
Choose your date & painting or barnwood project from our gallery.
Make a special memory last a lifetime www.vintage53.com, include a rabbit sausage flatbread with Nordic Creamery Wisconsin Parmesan, as well as dukkah – a blend of nuts, Egyptian spices an olive oil that is served with rye bread. An extensive wine list includes by-theglass and full-bottle options, but Grado feels a recent investment in a Coravin system will bolster Vintage 53’s selection. The tool pierces a wine cork with a thin, hypodermic needle. Once removed, the cork reseals naturally and allows the wine to be preserved as if the bottle were never opened. “Everything I’m doing is kind of from a mindset that I don’t want to do something that’s been done – whether that be with the menu, whether it be with décor, whether it’s my wine list,” Grado says. “Coming from a place where you see places that open and, a lot of the times, it’s, ‘Oh, they have their version of this and their version of that.’ It’s always been just in the back of my head to go against the grain – do something different, be a little bit crazy with your decisions. And I think that’s going to pay off in the end.”
162 S. 1st St., St. Charles 630-549-0423 www.vintage53.com
OPEN EASTER THURSDAY
nner .99 BBQ Ribs Di LF SLAB 13 17.99 • HA FULL SLAB s’ menu) (From our kid ! EE FR t entree Kids Ea al per adult free kids’ me Includes 1 purchased. ms d Mushroo 75¢ Stuffe une) yle or Nept (Chicago St
Dine-in only. cepted. s ac No coupon quired. rchase is re Beverage pu
MONDAY eatloaf 11.99
FRIDAY
M Homemade Pizza Half Price Wings lo 75¢ Buffa
TUESDAY
ff 13.99 n Strogano Filet Migno ers rg Bu ice Half Pr r menu! burger on ou Half off any rs ge Fin 75¢ Chicken
AY WEDNESD s Sandwich Gyro Half Price Saganaki Half Price n Filet Migno k 13.99 Pepper Stea
331-422-7301
.99 Fry N PERCH 11 Friday Fish N EAT OCEA D) 12.99 ALL YOU CA ATTERED CO (B IPS CH FISH & d The Juicy Kin 14oz 24.99 Prime Rib • • 12oz 22.99 10oz 19.99
SATURDAYJuicy Kind
The Prime Rib • 14oz 24.99 • 12oz 22.99 10oz 19.99
MONDAY
Miller Lite (25oz) 4.00 Zombies 6.99
TUESDAY
Sauza Margaritas 5.00 Corona & Corona Light 4.00
WEDNESDAY
Martinis 5.50 Coors Light 3.00 Daiquiris 5.00 Strawberry, Banana, Raspberry or Mango
Guinness 5.00 Rum Barrel 6.99 Half Price Bottles of Wine Can’t finish? Take it home!
FRIDAY Long Island Iced Tea 5.50
SATURDAY
Squire Mai Tai 6.99
SUNDAY
Absolut Bloody Mary 5.50 Mimosa 5.50 Half Price Bottles of Wine Can’t finish? Take it home!
SUNDAY
-Eat All-You-Can gers 11.99 Chicken Fin d The Juicy Kin Prime Rib • 14oz 24.99 • 12oz 22.99 10oz 19.99
THURSDAY
LIVE
ENTERTAINMENT THURS. thru SAT.
Kitchen Open Late SM-CL0386766
www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
St. Charles
www.thepaintedvinecellar.com
IF YOU GO VINTAGE 53
1 W. Illinois St Suite 110
““Great place to be!” www.thevillag esquire.com SOUTH ELGIN • 847-931-0400 • 480 Randall Road WEST DUNDEE • 847-428-4483 • 125 Washington Street
DINING & ENTERTAINING
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2017 | 37
“Some people come to explore Big Sur and other people never leave the property.”
A BOHEMIAN – Donna Heckert, manager of guest relations and reservations at Treebones Resort in Big Sur, California
RETREAT CONTINUE CALIFORNIA DREAMIN’ IN THE YURTS OF BIG SUR By KELSEY O’CONNOR
Big Sur is known around the world for its stunning geography and breathtaking ocean vistas. The rugged stretch of California coast is relatively undeveloped and lightly populated, making it the ultimate location for a secluded getaway. And there’s no better place to do that than Treebones Resort. Treebones Resort bills itself as a premier “glamping” experience in Big Sur. The oneof-a-king resort blends the outdoor camping experience with modern amenities. Visitors can get up close and personal with the natural beauty of the area, while staying in an unforgettable accommodation. “It’s luxury camping,” says Donna Heckert, manager of guest relations and reservations. 38 | APRIL 2017 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
“We have amazing ocean views; we’re on a bluff overlooking the ocean. It’s just a beautiful place to come and relax and enjoy the peace and nature.”
size beds or partial ocean views with queen-size beds.
Guests at Treebones can choose from a variety of lodging options inspired by indigenous structures. A popular choice is a yurt – a circular tent on a collapsible framework. These spacious structures offer either full ocean views with king-
Heckert.
The yurts also include a small table and chairs, electric lighting, a heat source and a sink with running water. The French doors open up to The resort opened in 2004, but the story of a large redwood deck with Adirondack chairs Treebones began long before that. John and Corinne Handy bought the 10-acre parcel of land where guests can relax and watch the sun set more than 30 years ago, with a dream of sharing over the ocean. Showers and restrooms are just it with others while also having a minimal impact a short walk away. on the environment. The couple now lives and “You have the feel of a tent but you’ve got the works on-site with their four children. comforts and conveniences of a cabin,” says
TRAVEL
Most yurts accommodate two people, but there are two “family yurts” that can fit up to six guests.
www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
The newest option at Treebones is the autonomous tent. The cocoon-shaped structure is secluded on the edge of the resort, and it includes a fire pit and private deck. Inside the tent, guests can enjoy 500-square feet of space, which includes a king-size bed, gas fireplace and a private bathroom.
restaurant, sushi bar with ocean views, pool, hot tub, weekly outdoor yoga and a massage studio with a licensed massage therapist.
There also are campsites available for guests looking to “rough it” and bring their own tents. One campsite includes a “human nest,” a woodwoven nest created by a local artist. The nest requires guests to bring their own sleeping bags and gear, and it offers one of the best views at the resort.
“Some people come to explore Big Sur and other people never leave the property,” says Heckert.
All guests can enjoy the many amenities that Treebones offers. There’s a farm-to-table www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
Guests also can opt for a variety of guided ecoadventures that include hiking and kayaking. Many notable attractions, such as Hearst Castle and Pfeiffer Beach, are a short drive away.
One of the goals of the resort is to offer guests a place for complete tranquility. This means that the oceanside retreat doesn’t offer group bookings and only allows children over age 6. This limits disruptions and helps maintain the peaceful ambiance of the resort.
TRAVEL
Treebones Resort recommends booking accommodations at least six months in advance. For more information or to make a reservation, visit treebonesresort.com or call 877-424-4787.
¢ TREEBONES RESORT 71895 Highway 1 South Big Sur, California www.treebonesresort.com 877-424-4787
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2017 | 39
The Glass-Half-Full Guy:
FASHIONABLY MINIMAL The more of less By PETER STADALSKY
After hitchhiking across America, canoeing 1,000 miles to the Gulf of Mexico and driving a scooter from San Francisco to Chicago, I’ve learned a lot about packing light. When I get home from one of these epic, four-month trips, I’m shocked by all of the things I have inside my home. Longterm travel has a tendency to make you become comfortable with less. I’ve learned from my many adventures that enjoying life is possible without a surplus of things. Although, differentiating between necessity from luxury can be difficult because of desire. The truth is that most people are generally happier when they simplify.
■ STUFF It’s easy to get attached to stuff: sentimental gifts, clothing, appliances and all of those “just-in-case” items. There’s a feeling of security that comes with being surrounded by your personal things – whether they have a purpose or not. I’ve realized that too much stuff weighs me down and reduces my quality of life rather than adding to it.
■ MINIMALISM Minimalism is subtracting the things from your life that does not add value. What’s left over is room for the important things. Minimalism is not about tossing out everything and living like a aesthetic. Rather, it’s determining what is most valuable and trimming down the rest of the things that weigh you down. Sometimes, this means getting rid of “stuff.” Other times, it’s being selective 40 | APRIL 2017 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
TRAVEL
with your time or the people you choose to invite into your life.
■ WHERE TO BEGIN When I arrived home from my 100-day biking trip through Europe, I decided that it was time to clean out my closet. It isn’t that easy to get rid of things, so I put 50 percent of my clothes in the basement and told myself that I could always go back and retrieve my clothing items if I missed them. After 60 days, I realized that I had no reservations about getting rid of those items. I donated my clothes to friends and charity so that the clothes could get a second chance. My girlfriend did the exact same thing to her closet. We both feel grateful that we could add value to other people’s lives by giving away things that were solely devouring space.
■ BETTER CHOICES I feared the challenge of being fashionable with less items, but – as it turns out – it’s easier. I reduced the amount of “junk” that I normally would have to sift through when I get dressed in the morning. Instead of having 40 mediocre shirts, I now have 10 that I love. I also realized that I can’t wear 20 pair of pants at once – maybe two pairs if I really squeeze into them. So, I narrowed down my options to only a few pairs. I did this same process to my kitchen – no one needs nine spatulas. I followed this trend as I maneuvered the rest of my home.
www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
Create Lasting Memories Easter Brunch Sunday, April 16th Servings at 12:30pm & 2:30pm
Mother’s Day Brunch Sunday, May 14th, Live Music Seatings at 12:30pm & 3pm ■ RESULTS
Please call for Reservations
e
kfas
t • Accommodatio
ns
fo
r
ro
B
d
&
ea Br
G
With reduced clutter, reduced options and reduced baggage, I feel freer, more focused and more organized. I hardly lose anything anymore because I know exactly where everything is located, and it’s no longer buried under stuff that I don’t use or wear. My wardrobe is simpler and sharper. My home has room to breathe and each item adds to the atmosphere rather than suffocating it. That freedom that I feel when I travel comes from traveling with less stuff and living more simply. With a few changes, I now have that feeling of freedom again, but at home. Getting to this point has not been an overnight process. I’ve spent months trying to figure out what necessity means to me, and, I’ve found that, to add value to my life, I must first subtract things.
A Historic
GENEVA
1800 West State Street Geneva, IL
630-232-0173
up
Lodging
GALENA
www.oscarswan.com
3351 Elizabeth-Scales Mound Rd. Scales Mound, IL (Near Galena)
815-541-0653
Join us for... Sunday Brunch 10am to 1pm
Try Stockholm’s Raider’s Root Beer (ABV 7.5%)
u Peter Stadalsky is an Aurora resident and adventurer. He shares his travel experiences with a “glass-half-full” view of the world. www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
TRAVEL
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2017 | 41
Book Nook
GREAT AMERICAN STORIES BY WOMEN AND ABOUT WOMEN By ALLISON MANLEY
I love reading works you’d find in the classic books section. I grew up reading Mark Twain, John Steinbeck, F. Scott Fitzgerald and all of those men who wrote some version of “The Great American Novel.” But my complaint about this category of literature is that it doesn’t acknowledge women’s stories enough. Stories about women and stories written BY women can be just as cool, intelligent and exciting as any books by and about men. To prove that point, here are a few interesting and inspiring books that fall in this category (not just because I’m a woman, but because they’re just darn good books):
■ ‘BREAKING THROUGH BIAS: COMMUNICATION TECHNIQUES FOR WOMEN TO SUCCEED AT WORK’ By Andrea S. Kramer and Alton B. Harris “Breaking through Bias” is hard to define in the best way possible. Part self-help book, part critical study on the biases women face and part support system, it’s a must-read for any woman who has had to deal with stereotypes and discrimination in her professional life (which is probably every woman). The first part of the book walks us through studies, surveys and anecdotes that identify what the issues are surrounding gender biases: in which industries gender biases are more apparent, why women’s resumes are dismissed faster by recruiters than those of – otherwise – identical resumes submitted by men and more. The rest of the book, while adding on content in the first part, gives clear, practical advice on what to do and not to do to counter the subconscious biases that people (men and women) have about women at work. While the book doesn’t fully address the intersectionality of gender bias, it does provide open-minded perspectives on why certain biases exist without vilifying the people who inadvertently perpetuate them.
Allison Manley was born in Georgia and raised in Island Lake. She graduated from Northwestern University with a degree in creative writing. She loves opera, craft beer, and (of course!) reading.
42 | APRIL 2017 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
Plus, there’s an immediacy to the book’s guidance that can help women instantly become better communicators, colleagues and self-promoters. Even though the priceless guidance in this book is directed toward women, I’d recommend this book to any woman or man who wants a better understanding of the extra steps women have to take just to get on an even playing field with men in the workforce. OUT & ABOUT
■ ‘THE MOTHERS’ By Brit Bennett There’s a lot packed into “The Mothers”: it’s a novel about growing up, love, dreams, family, religion, jealousy and, of course, women. The beginning of the book introduces us to Nadia Turner, an ambitious, popular teen accepted to a prestigious college. We soon learn that Nadia is pregnant, and that the father is Luke, a former high school football star whose life was derailed after an accident left him unable to play. The novel shows Nadia, Luke and Nadia’s best friend, Aubrey, becoming adults and learning to live with their decisions, and it attempts to understand their mothers, who, for various reasons, have been absent for parts of their lives. While a lot of the plot turns are those you’d see in melodramas, Bennett’s respect for her cast keeps “The Mothers” from being silly or trite. It’s both maddening and rewarding to see how the characters go about their decisions. While you sometimes want to yell at the book the way you would at clueless characters in a horror movie, the terrible decisions we see being made by the young characters are hopelessly realistic. Bennett writes as if writing were easy, giving us a perfect balance of detail and insight without bogging the writing down with the heaviness of the story. There’s a reason this book has been so lauded by critics lately – it’s a beautiful story, beautifully told.
www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
FOR AMERICA’S LARGEST ■ ‘THE SECRET HISTORY OF WONDER WOMAN’ By Jill Lepore While “The Secret History of Wonder Woman” is a nonfiction read about the inception of the superhero Wonder Woman, it’s filled with so many interesting characters and twists that it almost reads like a novel. Lepore shows how Wonder Woman’s creator, William Marston, was a quirky man influenced by the strong women in his personal life, and in the public eye, at the time he created the iconic character. The book explores everything from Wonder Woman’s relationship and fashion to fascism and feminism – and there’s a hefty dose of all of the above. It also discusses how Wonder Woman has affected comics and culture over the years. I don’t read superhero comics, but “The Secret History of Wonder Woman” makes the popular figure come to life so well that the story of how she was created became irresistible to me. With a bit of historical context, juicy details on Marston’s personal life and plenty of images taken from Wonder Woman comics through the ages, I couldn’t stop reading.
ILLINOIS RAILWAY MUSEUM
RAILWAY MUSEUM
Season Opening! The Gates Go Up On
Sunday, April 2nd, 2017 MARK Y OUR CA
LENDAR
FUN FAMILY EVENTS FOR 2017
S
May 27-29 27 29 – July 1-4 – July 8-9 & 15-16 – August 6 – August 12-13 – September 2-4 – September 16-17 –
Memorial Memmo Day Weekend kendd Independence Day/Trolley Weekend Day Out With Thomas™ Vintage Transport Extravaganzaa Diesel Days Labor Day Weekend Museum Showcase Weekend
Go to www.irm.org for timetable and admission info. 7000 Olson Road • Union IL 60180 800-BIG-RAIL or 815-923-4000
SM-CL0384793
www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
OUT & ABOUT
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2017 | 43
Down on the farm New Primrose Farm plaza gives guests a place to gather
Farms, by their very nature, are gathering places. When people want to gather at Primrose Farm, they now have an area to call their own. Nestled behind the big red barn – with a view of the feedlot for the horses and cattle – is a spacious plaza bordered with benches and dotted with planters of native plants, which provides a nice area to take a break from all of the down-on-thefarm fun. The plaza will serve as the primary gathering place for school groups, Scout groups, families and campers – offering a much-needed protected area near the parking lot, but still safely away from buses and other vehicle traffic. The plaza will serve a meeting point for weekly drop-in programs, as well as a site for group program introductions. Previously, the entrance area was susceptible to flooding. Using a stamped concrete surface, the new structure was created to collect and divert storm water allowing it to drain more appropriately into the parking area. Mature landscaping, including shade trees, flowering trees, shrubs and ornamental grasses, were 44 | APRIL 2017 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
incorporated into the overall design. The plaza stands as a memorial to John H. “Jack” Wessel who was a dedicated public servant of the St. Charles community, having spent seven years on the St. Charles Park Foundation Board of Trustees and more than 20 years on the St. Charles Plan Commission. He also volunteered with the Salvation Army. Wessel passed away in 2011, and a plaque mounted on a stone column at the center of the plaza further details Wessel’s commitment to the park district and honors him for his perseverance and commitment of service. Wessel strongly supported the mission of Primrose Farm and was a founding member of the annual Farm Frolic fundraiser. Because of his enthusiastic contributions to the improvements at Primrose Farm, future generations will learn and enjoy many facets of day-to-day farm life. A donation from the Wessel family for the passing of Eileen Wessel, Jack’s wife, enabled the park district to purchase a new information kiosk for the farm plaza. Interpretive signage highlighting the farm’s history also will be on display. OUT & ABOUT
The official dedication of the plaza will take place during the fourth annual “Swing Into Summer Barn Dance” at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, May 20. Barn dances were welcome entertainment for farming communities in the 1930s. This popular event harkens back to that era with a vintage costume contest, bon fire and pie-baking contest. The dance opens with beginner swing dance lessons and a food truck will be on site for those who wish to purchase refreshments. www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
“It is a privilege to be able to honor the Wessel family here at Primrose Farm,” says Alison Jones, manager of farm programs and interpretive services. “We know Jack would have enjoyed being able to visit with people who take time out to appreciate all the sights and sounds of our working farmstead.” Also coming this spring, Primrose Farm will be the site of a down-and-dirty event when it collaborates with the staff of Hickory Knolls Discovery Center. To celebrate International Mud Day, a giant mud pit for kids – and adults, too – will be created. The event will take place from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Sunday, May 21, at Primrose Farm. “Children get to enjoy something they probably can’t in their own backyards, and adults can think of it as a way to indulge in the kind of spa treatment usually only found at upscale salons,” says Jones. SM-CL0386760
OH NO! My Spring Clothes Don’t Fit!
u For more information about Primrose Farm programs and events, contact Alison Jones at 630-513-4374.
www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
220 West State Street Geneva 630.208.1115 Mon-Sat 9:30-5 Sunday 12-4 OUT & ABOUT
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2017 | 45
‘EYE OF THE BEHOLDER’
Water Street Studios’ next exhibition to weave together art and fashion By YVONNE BENSON
One way to make a statement is through fashion. Some of the most unique, strange and beautiful garments have managed to make a lasting impression. Whether it’s a dress made of raw beef that Pop star Lady Gaga wore to the 2010 MTV Music Awards; a wind-blown, white halter dress worn by Marilyn Monroe in the film “The Seven Year Itch”; or a swan dress worn by Bjork on the red carpet of the 86th annual Academy Awards, getting creative with attire is one way to get remembered. Fashion is an art form. And what clothing to wear is a daily decision people make about how they want to present themselves to the world. Sometimes one wants to be bold; sometimes one wants to blend in; and sometimes one uses fashion to make a statement about a belief, an opinion or a desire. Water Street Studios in Batavia will examine fashion and how it relates to beauty when it reveals its immersive fashion exhibition, called “Eye of the Beholder,” from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, May 12. It is one of the only ticketed gallery opening events at Water Street Studios. The event is open to all ages. “’The Eye of the Beholder’ exhibition is about exploring all the different ways we, as complex human beings, experience and portray beauty,” says executive director Danielle Hollis. “This is an opportunity to strip away the stereotypes of the fashion show experience and re-examine beauty to include the diversity of body types, gender, age, race, style and more. ” The exhibition will feature an array of work.
‘Eye of the Beholder’ fashion exhibition
WHEN: 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, May 12 WHERE: 160 S. Water St., Batavia TICKETS: $20 in advance (Available at the EventBrite website); or $25 at the door INFO: waterstreetstudios.org 46 | APRIL 2017 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
“There’s going to be a lot of different interpretations that artists have chosen as their focal point,” says Andrea Reynders, a fashion designer and guest curator at Water Street Studios. The gallery opening exhibition will consist of a unique mix of garments worn by mannequins and models. The models will be equipped to answer OUT & ABOUT
questions about their garment and the intention of the designers. The event also will feature live music and wine provided by Geneva-based Bright Angel Wines, beer provided by Solemn Oath Brewery and appetizers provided by Gaetano’s in Batavia. “It’s a lot of people walking around who are there to connect with art,” volunteer Kristin Schimmel says of the exhibition. “You get to walk around all of Water Street Studios; a lot of the artists have their studios open so that you can look at their work and connect with them.” The opening night is the ideal way to see this exhibit; however, it will be available after opening night, too. During the rest of the exhibition, models won’t wear the garments but they’ll be on display with descriptions and the initial sketches. “You do not have to have experience or even an initial interest in fashion to attend this exhibition,” says Hollis. “In fact, I encourage you to attend if fashion is not exactly your cup of tea. We are curating a more accessible way to experience garment design.” As a fashion designer, Reynders loves exploring fashion as art. “Artists have been using garments as a medium more and more,” Reynders says. “Sometimes it’s an exaggeration of an idea; sometimes it’s a very textural idea. [Artists] take the notion of skin – no matter how tight or wrinkled – and sometimes we decorate it with tattoos. That’s a form of body art or covering. Some people even think about tattoos as a garment, like a sleeve or leggings or tights, on some people. It’s kind of wonderful to see that interpretation on bodies.” Some artists also will be using their work to take a stand on an important issue or to make a political statement, Reynders continues. She hopes that the exhibition will expose guests to new way of looking at fashion. “… It’s the first step in making people look at something in a different way,” Reynders says. www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
WHAT’S NEXT at WATER STREET STUDIOS
Water Street Studios in Batavia has art openings nearly every month and most of them are free. A couple of openings serve as fundraisers for the studio, such as the “Eye of the Beholder” and “Project Fusion.”
Patrons have a lot of say in what the artists create, since it will ultimately be theirs to keep after a brief time on display at the gallery. Both the patron and artist usually feel personally attached to the pieces created as part of the project.
“Project Fusion” will take place Saturday, April 8, at Water Street “There aren’t a whole lot of Studios, 160 S. Water St., Batavia. places like [the Water Street During “Project Fusion,” volunteer Studios],” Schimmel says of the Kristin Schimmel says “We invite nonprofit. “Unless it’s a museum, most studios or galleries only people to come and meet with 30-plus artists and find one that have a few openings, but not with the frequency of Water Street they connect with – with the Studios.” intention of commissioning a piece.” In November, there’s a reveal party where all of the artists – even the ones that didn’t get commissioned – get revealed during a masquerade party.
Beyond having many different exhibitions throughout the year, Water Street Studios is a supportive artist community. “It supports a community of artists and gives them a place to grow,” she says. “If you’re
interested in metal or clay, you can pay a certain amount and use a collaborative space. It gives you access to the tools to grow your artistic abilities.” Water Street also has a school of art for kids and adults. “A lot of the artists who rent space give classes, and we do outreach to schools,” she says. Water Street Studios celebrates all kinds of art. “[WSS has] music shows and readings,” Schimmel says. “Waterline Writers do readings once a month or every other month. There’s also a film festival where we just had a bunch of international short films. We called it a ‘Brew and View.’ We’re really expanding our [offerings] to encourage all kinds of art.”
ENJOY YOURSELF
A NEW LIVE ART PERFORMANCE MONTHLY
Join us the fourth Friday of every month The Water Street Live Art Series is a monthly performance event that explores a variety of art forms, including music, film, dance, storytelling, and more! Doors and cash bar open at 6pm, show starts at 7pm. Seating is limited, come early! Learn More at
WaterStreetStudios.org 160 South Water Street, Batavia
www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
OUT & ABOUT
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2017 | 47
Artist SHOWCASE
SARAH LOOK | SOUTH ELGIN “FRECKLING CONSTELLATIONS” MANIPULATED PHOTOGRAPH
48 | APRIL 2017 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
OUT & ABOUT
www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
The ESO
Fourme Winner of IL Professional Orchestra of the Year!
Sarah Look is a passionate photographer. The 17-year-old artist has such an affection for her camera that she has given the piece of equipment its own name – “Oswin.” Using “Oswin” to take pictures of people is one of her true passions in life. Look enjoys showing the “diversity in both society and individuals themselves,” she says. “Freckling Constellations” is a manipulated portrait that Look took of her best friend, RJ Radke, in 2016. She says that her friend’s freckles had always reminded her of a “starry night sky.” “I decided to create constellations on her face to show others the ‘stars’ on her skin as I saw them,” Look says. “After six hours of editing to make it perfect, this is one of my favorite pictures I have … and it is even better because it captures the beauty of someone I care about so much.” Look hopes to pursue a future in photography and also hopes to inspire people in the same way her own idols have inspired her. Currently, Look’s Instagram account (@painting.wonderland), where she showcases her work, has garnered the attention of about 10,500 followers.
Rachmaninoff & Brahms April A pril 1 & 2
Season Finale
Tickets start at just $30
Pictures at an Exhibionn May M ay 6 & 7
Valet or free parking
Look credits two of her art teachers for the support she has received for her work. “They are two of the greatest women I know and they inspire me every day, both in and outside of the classroom,” Look says. “Both of these ladies helped me become not only the photographer I am today, but also assisted in shaping me as a person. I may still be only 17 years old, but I believe in good things coming if I keep working hard in doing what I love.” To see more of Look’s work, visit www. sarahlookphotography.weebly.com or follow @painting.wonderland on Instagram.
To submit an entry to Artist Showcase, email artwork, title of piece, name and village of residence of artist, a two- to three - sentence description of the piece, short bio and artist photo to KaneCountyMagazine@ shawmedia.com, subject head “Local Artist Submission.”
Photo: Paolo Cascio
www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
OUT & ABOUT
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2017 | 49
St. Charles SATURDAY, MAY 27TH
Fine Art Show
PRESENTED BY:
10:00AM - 6:00PM
SUNDAY, MAY 28TH 10:00AM - 5:00PM
ABOUT THE EVENT
This award-winning show features the work of over 100 juried artists in various mediums, which are exhibited and available for sale during the event. Located in the heart of beautiful Downtown St. Charles, approximately 40 miles west of Chicago, there are many fine restaurants and shops, as well as numerous parks, theaters and activities.
ALSO FEATURING... “All Things Art” Feature Tent - creative activites for all ages The “Art-cada” row, featuring rock n’ roll art and memorabilia Live musical entertainment throughout both days of the show FREE downtown trolley rides
ORGANIZED BY:
more details at downtownstcharles.org/fas
CALENDAR
APRIL 2017
‘RUTHLESS’ (THE MUSICAL) WHEN: 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 3 p.m. Sunday, running from April 7 through April 30 WHERE: Steel Beam Theatre 111 W. Main St., St. Charles The story-lines of hit Broadway musicals, such as “Gypsy” and “Mame,” and movies, such as “The Bad Seed” and “All About Eve,” are combined in “Ruthless” – a hilarious take on stage mothers and their beautiful, but poisonous offspring. A campy, cult favorite “Ruthless” is a 90-minute romp through the world of Broadway, child acting, parenthood and unbridled ambition. Tickets cost between $23 and $28. For tickets or more information, call 630-587-8521 or visit www. steelbeamtheatre.com. ARCADA FOLK FEST, STARRING TAYLOR, CHAPIN AND EVA WHEN: 8 p.m. Friday, April 7 WHERE: Arcada Theatre 105 E. Main St., St. Charles During the Arcada Folk Fest, Livingston Taylor, (the brother of James Taylor) and Tom Chapin, of the Harry Chapin family, will perform. Tickets cost $39. For tickets or more information, visit www. arcadalive.com or call 630-962-7000.
BATAVIA EASTER EGG HUNT WHEN: 9:30 a.m. Saturday, April 8 WHERE: West Main Community Park 40W101 W. Main St., Batavia Batavia will host its annual Easter Egg Hunt. Group leaders will divide children into age groups and take them to their separate hunt areas. At 10 a.m. the hunt will begin. The event is free, but participants are asked to bring a non-perishable food item or paper product to be donated to the Batavia Food Pantry. Parking space is limited. Children should bring their own baskets for the hunt. For more information, visit www. bataviaparks.org. EGG HUNT AND BUNNY BREAKFAST WHEN: The hunt starts at 10 a.m. and the breakfast is from 8:15 to 9:45 a.m. and 10:15 to 11:45 a.m. Saturday, April 8 WHERE: Stephen Persinger Recreation Center 3507 Kaneville Road, Geneva Over 5,000 eggs will be scattered across the soccer fields at Stephen Persinger Recreation Center for children to collect at the annual Easter Egg Hunt. The hunt begins promptly at 10 a.m., rain or shine. The event is free. No registration is necessary. The annual Bunny Breakfast will take place from 8:15 to 9:45 a.m. and 10:15 to 11:45 a.m. at the recreation center. The event will feature a pancake breakfast and a bunny visit. The breakfast costs
$5 a person (residents) and $8 a person for nonresidents. Children younger than 1 year old will be admitted free of charge. To register for the Bunny Breakfast, visit genevaparks.org or call 630-2324542. DOGGIE EASTER EGG HUNT WHEN: 11 a.m. Saturday, April 8 WHERE: Batavia Park District Bark Park 40W101 Main St., Batavia The Bark Park will host an egg hunt for dogs, where Easter eggs will be filled with doggie treats. All dogs must be leashed during the event. Registration is requested, but registration will be accepted at the gate to the Bark Park, beginning at 11 a.m. Registration fee is per dog. There will be pet-friendly vendors at the event from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Anderson Animal Shelter. The hunt will begin at 11:30 a.m. For more information, visit www. bataviaparks.org. ORGANIC PLANT SALE AT HERITAGE PRAIRIE FARM WHEN: 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, April 8 WHERE: Heritage Prairie Farm 2N308 Brundige Road, Elburn Heritage Prairie Farm will host its first Organic Plant Sale of the season. A full list of the organic plants that will be available is on the farm’s website. For more information, call 630-443-5989 or visit www.heritageprairiefarm.com.
-Continued on page 52
Celebrating Our 11th Year in Geneva Special Tastings of our Products Every Weekend
Come taste 60 different extra virgin olive oils and balsamic vinegars from all over the world. Unique Gift Baskets Available. Homemade Skincare Products made with Olive Oil: Soaps ~ Lip Balms ~ Lotion Bars
Restore your body and mind with our Himalayan Salt Cave
See Us For Our Monthly Special
The Salt Escape holistic and natural care for your body
Store Hours
Mon-Fri 10am-6pm ~ Thurs 10am-8pm ~ Sat 10am-5:30pm ~ Sun 11am-4pm
315 James St. • Geneva, IL • (630) 262-0210 www.olivemillgeneva.com
www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
9 North River Street Batavia, IL | 630-708-SALT (7258) | www.thesaltescape.com OUT & ABOUT
SM-CL0355920
helps with: allergies • asthma • skin conditions detox • and much more…
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2017 | 51
-Continued from page 51
EASTER
FAVORITES AT GENEVA’S LOCAL BUTCHER ER ! Butcher ~ Deli ~ Catering D OR RLY EA 50 Different Homemade Italian Pastas & Italian Pastries
For your Special Easter Meal we will be offering:
• Prime Rib Beef • Whole Beef Tenderloins • Crown Roast of Pork with Stuffing • Rack of Lamb • Boar’s Head Honey Baked Ham (Sliced, Tied & Glazed) • USDA Leg of Lamb Whole or Boned & Tied • Chateaubriand • Boneless Rib Eye Roast • Smoked Easter Polish Kielbasa • Fresh Homemade Polish • Boneless Rolled Pork Loin Roast • Bone-In Whole Hams 10-14 lb avg. • Colossal Cooked Shrimp • Italian Beef in Gravy
EASTER SPECIAL:
Homemade Calzones • Easter Pies
Engstrom Plaza 716 West State St., Geneva (Entrance on 7th Street)
630-262-1878
www.josefsmeats.com
Hours:
Meat & Cheese Lasagna Veggie Lasagna Baked Mostaccioli
Tuesday - Friday: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM We are closed Mondays
Let's drive over to Papa Pat's to see what's for Easter!
GARDEN WORKSHOP SERIES – HERB GARDENS WHEN: 10 a.m. Sunday, April 9 WHERE: Creek Bend Nature Center 37W700 Dean St., St. Charles During Creek Bend Nature Center’s interactive program, the group will discuss the natural and cultural impact of plants that grow in the garden, and then participants will create a garden-in-a-pot to take home. A container, plants and all materials needed to create a potted garden will be provided. The fee is $10 a person. Registration is required. The event is for adults ages 18 and older. To register, call 630444-3190 or email programs@kaneforest.com. EASTER EGG HUNT ON THE FARM WHEN: 11 a.m. Saturday, April 15 WHERE: Heritage Prairie Farm 2N308 Brundige Road, Elburn Heritage Prairie Farm will host its annual Easter Egg Hunt. There are two eggs hunt sections for age groups. The first section is for children ages 5 and younger, and the second section is for children ages 6 and older. There will be farm animals, such as Christaphine the donkey, and Martha and Betty the goats. Other fun on the farm will include the Farm Store, which will be filled with Raw Honey, Organic Vegetables, and other locally-made items. The event is free and open to the public. For more information, visit www.heritageprairiefarm.com/journal/easteregg-hunt. EARTH DAY OPEN HOUSE WHEN: 10 a.m. Thursday, April 20 WHERE: LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve 37W700 Dean St., St. Charles The Earth Day Open House will feature activities, such as stories and crafts at the nature center and a habitat restoration activity in the forest preserve. There will be Earth Day treats for everyone, and participants can treat Mother Earth by cleaning up the trails. The event is free to attend. For more information, visit www. kaneforest.com. TRICITY FAMILY SERVICES 28TH ANNUAL GALA FUNDRAISER WHEN: 6 to 11 p.m. Saturday, April 22 WHERE: Pheasant Run Resort 4051 E. Main St., St. Charles TriCity Family Services will host its 28th annual Gala, Festival of Color, at Pheasant Run Resort. The festival is the largest fundraising event of the year for TCFS and benefits the agency’s mental health counseling and emotional wellness programs. This year also marks the organization’s Golden Jubilee anniversary, a milestone being recognized throughout the year with the Gala taking center stage. This year’s Gala will feature live music and open bar during cocktail hour, a sit-down dinner, live and silent auctions, and a few special surprises to commemorate the organization’s 50th anniversary. The cost to attend is $150 a person. For tickets, visit TCFS2017.gesture.com.
SM-CL0386755
52 | APRIL 2017 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
OUT & ABOUT
www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
SPRING IS IN THE AIR AND BUYERS ARE EVERYWHERE!
TROLLEY TOUR OF HISTORIC ST. CHARLES WHEN: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, April 22 WHERE: St. Charles History Museum 215 E. Main St., St. Charles The St. Charles History Museum will host a St. Charles History Tour, featuring stories about St. Charles’ past as guests travel to the actual sites where the stories occurred. Stories cover the time from the earliest settlement of St. Charles through the start of the 20th century. The tour will last just under an hour. There will be several opportunities to take the tour during the day (schedule subject to change). For more information, visit www.stcmuseum. org. CHICAGO TOY SHOW WHEN: 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, April 23 WHERE: Kane County Fairgrounds 525 S. Randall Road, St. Charles The Kane County Fairgrounds will host the Chicago Toy Show – an international show that draws exhibitors from Europe, Japan, Canada and all over the US. The show, which is in its 44th year, will feature antiques, collectibles, toys, dolls from the late-1800s, as well as toys found off of the shelves today. There will be 600 exhibitors. Admission is $10, and children will be admitted free of charge. Parking is free. For more information, visit www.chicagotoyshow.com. ‘RENT’ AT BATAVIA FINE ARTS CENTRE WHEN: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, April 27, and Friday, April 28; and 2 p.m. Sunday, April 30 (A special production will take place at 6 p.m. Saturday, April 29) WHERE: Batavia Fine Arts Centre 1201 Main St., Batavia Batavia High School will presents “Rent” at the Batavia Fine Arts Centre. There also will be a special production Saturday, April 29, with Adam Pascal and Anthony Rapp – the originators of the roles of Roger and Mark, respectively, from the Broadway production of “Rent.” They will make a one-night appearance in conjunction with the BHS production. The performance will begin at 6 p.m., followed by a 60-minute show by Pascal and Rapp, entitled “Acoustically Speaking: 20 Years of Friendship.” At the end, the cast will join the veteran professionals on stage. Tickets for the special show cost between $30 and $42, while the general “Rent” show tickets cost between $10 and $16. For tickets, visit www. BataviaFineArtsCentre.org or call the box office at 630-937-8930. MARY WILSON OF THE SUPREMES TO PERFORM WHEN: 8 p.m. Saturday, April 29 WHERE: Arcada Theatre 105 E. Main St., St. Charles
IT’S TIME TO GET YOUR HOME SOLD! ER U N D AC T TR CO N DAYS ! IN 2
3821 Ashley Court
CALL ME TODAY FOR AN EVALUATION ON YOUR HOME!
NIKKI LORENZEN nikki@berellc.com|630.649.0568 f@nikkilrealestate Offering a full range of services for buyers, sellers, renters, landlords and developers, I am your local real estate expert!
OPEN YEAR ROUND
GREAT PLACE TO COOL DOWN & REFUEL!
Ice Cream • Smoothies Shakes • Hawaiian Shave Ice Frozen Cappuccino Ice Coffee Drinks • Sodas Cakes for All Occasions NOW AVAILABLE! We Sell Dry Ice 4 N Island Ave • Batavia • 630.482.3729 • www.BataviaCreamery.com y.com
Mary Wilson, the founding member of Motown super group The Supremes, will bring her all-hits show to the Arcada Theatre. Tickets cost $39. For tickets or more information, visit www. arcadalive.com. www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
OUT & ABOUT
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | APRIL 2017 | 53
Tax Free Plan April 1-15
ANtwerp Buying Trip
230 W State St. Geneva, IL 630.232.2085 statestreetjewelers.com
Lot 2 13,000 sf
Reserve Your Homesite Today Lot 21 Lot 20 11,000 sf 10,000 sf
Lot 19
Sold
Sold
Lot Lot 11 13,277 13,277 13, 277 sfsf
Lot 18 10,003 sf
Lot 3 13,000 sf
Lot 17
Sold Lot 4 10,581 sf Lot 5 10,400 sf Lot 6 10,399 sf
Lot 10 11,489 sf Lot 9 11,377 sf Lot 8 12,221 sf
Lot 11 10,287 sf
Lot 12 10,038 sf
Lot 13 10,068 sf
Lot 16
Sold Lot 15 16,560 sf Lot 14
model Lot 7
Sold