KCC_KC Magazine April 2024

BAUBLES, TRIMMINGS & GILDED GOODS

Accessorize and adorn your everyday style with ease

Page 16

TRENDING IN WELLNESS

Take advantage of these self-care opportunities

Page 20

FASHION Style

When you look good, you feel good.

Fortunately, the key to looking good is wearing fashion to fit your own unique style. Whether you reach for jeans or dresses, we have some fashion advice and local shops for you to explore in this month's edition of KCM.

April is a great time to get spring cleaning, whether you need to clear out your garage and dust bunnies or strengthen your mental health. Check out our incredibly informative piece on trending wellness techniques on page 20 for some naturally beneficial services. Maybe you want to feel good by helping others? Read all about a beloved local nonprofit on page 24 or sign up for a 5k and fun run to benefit the fight against hunger (more on page 22).

Congratulations are in order for the St. Charles Park District’s Norris Woods as they

Editorʼs NOTE on the COVER

have been added to the Old-Growth Forest Network – read more on page 32. While you’re on the subject of “green,” take a gander at some “must-haves” to add in the garden this year on page 38.

This edition turned out to be an eclectic and beautiful reflection of the county we call home – with an emphasis on fashion, of course. I am excited for you to dive into some truly interesting stories. As always, thank you for reading!

Kelley White, Editor

Wendy Greenslade of Locked In Photography snaps boutique owner Shannon Gutierrez at Wyckwood House in Aurora. Learn more about House of 423, Evernia and Wyckwood House boutiques on page 8.

Next month: Discover the latest happenings on Kane County's arts and entertainment scene in the May issue!

PUBLISHER

Kane County Chronicle & Northwest Herald

Laura Shaw

630-709-4497

lshaw@shawmedia.com

EDITOR

Kelley White shawmagazineeditor@gmail.com

DESIGNER

Julie Barichello

815-431-4072

jbarichello@shawmedia.com

LOCAL SALES MANAGER

Kane County Chronicle & Niche Publishing

Jaclyn Cornell

630-845-5234

jcornell@shawmedia.com

CORRESPONDENTS

Jamie Baker, Jonathan Bilyk, Patricia MacMillan, Vicki Martinka Petersen, Melissa Rubalcaba Riske and Patricia Szpekowski

This magazine is available by subscription for $24 a year. If you would like each month’s edition mailed to your home, send your request with payment information to Shaw Media, 7717 S. Route 31, Crystal Lake, IL 60014 or via email at subscriptions@shawmedia.com.

Published by Shaw Media 7717 S. Route 31, Crystal Lake, IL 60014

We’re Fired Up for Grilling Season

What ʼ s

INSIDE

FASHION & TRENDS

8 LOCAL FASHION EN VOGUE

Unique boutiques highlight latest styles

14 FASHION AROUND TOWN

Check out these local Kane County shops to complete your wardrobe

16 BAUBLES, TRIMMINGS & GILDED GOODS

Accessorize and adorn your everyday style with ease

18 SUSTAINABLY STYLISH

Maximize a guilt-free wardrobe

20 TRENDING IN WELLNESS

Take advantage of these popular self-care opportunities

LOCAL LIFESTYLE

22 STEPS AGAINST HUNGER

Northern Illinois Food Bank hosts

Fight Hunger 5k and Fun Run

24 A FAIRY TALE EVENING

Local nonprofit Marklund hosted their annual Top Hat Ball in spectacular fashion

26 MEGAERA LORENZ AND "THE SHABTI"

Local Egyptologist releases first fiction novel

FAMILY & ENTERTAINMENT

28 EXPLORE ARTS IN ELGIN

Check out these treasured creations around town

30 DAD, THE WAYFINDER

Suburban Superdad argues the value of the original GPS

32 THE VENERABLE WOODLAND

Norris Woods gets inducted into national Old-Growth Forest Network

34 ARTIST OF THE MONTH

Intuitive artist Katherine Marra creates beautiful masterpieces

36 GRAB A BOOKMARK

Check out these reading recommendations for April

BUSINESS & CIVIC

38 GARDEN MUST-HAVES

12 plants to consider adding to your home's landscape

40 TAX-SEASON BLUES?

Make your investment portfolio more tax efficient

EN VOGUE Local fashion

By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske | Photos by Locked In Photography

Trends come and go, but classic pieces remain constant staples in our wardrobe. These featured styles by House of 423, Evernia and Wyckwood House were cultivated by each boutique owner to showcase their styles, reflecting classic pieces that are versatile and easily fit into various lifestyles.

The beauty of shopping local is the ability for owners to have one-onone interactions with their clients. Invited to a special occasion and not sure what to wear? Taking a new job and need to upgrade the wardrobe?

For shop owner Sarah Whitt of House of 423, answering customers’ style questions is the best part of the job.

“I have a client traveling for work and she came in to ask about a few capsule pieces that will style with her trip,” Whitt said. “That’s my favorite thing about my job and what I love to do.”

Whitt said she dreamed of one day becoming a buyer for a major department store and today, she’s surpassed that dream by owning her own shop. She launched her first location in downtown Batavia before moving to downtown Geneva on State Street last fall.

For Whitt’s look (shown on page 9) she donned wide-leg jeans with a high waist in a light wash, which she said gives her a 1970s vibe.

“Jeans are something I think are a classic wardrobe staple,” Whitt said.

To dress it up, she’s complemented the jeans with a pair of heels. The jeans have a frayed hem, which Whitt said is perfect for those on the petite side because it’s easy to trim off another inch of denim to make the length work.

In cultivating a simple wardrobe with classic pieces, Whitt said a great tailor can make all the difference to help a piece to fit perfectly. For the styled look, she went with a classic button up shirt with geometric lines.

“I love to mix masculine and feminine styles,” she added, describing her top.

For a more delicate look, she suggested the blue and white flower pants (pictured on the left side of this page) that offer a flowy look on the bottom with a simple silk washable Cami on top. This look would go well with sandals, whether walking around on vacation or donning dressier sandals for an evening out.

u The floral print and flowy cut of these bottoms, paired with a silk Cami, create a delicate look.

u Jeans are a classic wardrobe staple. Sarah Whitt models wide-leg jeans with a high waist in a light wash.

u One way to dress up your style in jeans is to pair them with heels.

t These frayed hems are great for petite customers –extra inches can be trimmed to adjust the length.

t Classic pieces can anchor a wardrobe, such as this button-up with geometric lines.

Pro tip: A taylor can make a big difference to a wardrobe by making pieces fit perfectly.

q

accessorize

EVERNIA

328 S. Third St., Geneva 630-457-5445

www.everniageneva.com

Add a pop of color to a classically inspired outfit, advises Brenda Johns, owner of Evernia on Third Street in downtown Geneva. Inside her shop, a teal Victorian shop, Johns offers customers a collection of clothing she describes as classic looks that have a bit of edge and excellence.

For her styled look, seen to the right, Johns started with a nice pop of color using an orange sweater from a Swedish manufacturer that she paired with white cotton and spandex pants designed in Germany. The pants offer “lots of stretch and lots of comfort,” Johns said.

When she looks at pieces for her shop she considers the fabric, the style and the fit, adding that she wants to offer her customers high quality and items that are fair-trade. This includes bringing in pieces made in Europe.

“We don’t do trends,” Johns said. “We are more classic with a little bit of an edge.”

And the right accessories can level up a look, whether it’s a sunhat and sandals during the day or a cute clutch and jewelry to extend the look into the evening.

u Add fun to a classic look by incorporating a pop of color, such as this orange sweater with white pants.

q Accessories can level up an outfit, such as a sunhat and sandals.

We don’t do trends. We are more classic with a little bit of an edge."

t Evernia's inventory focuses on fabric, style and fit. Shop owner Brenda Johns takes pride in high-quality clothing, some of which is imported from Europe.

Elevate an outfit using accessories such as jewelry. q

t Denim is a versatile fabric. This ruffled blue denim dress provides a fun summer wardrobe staple and can be paired with sandals, tennis shoes or boots.

Bright pastels are trending for spring, but shoppers will find olive green on the clothing racks as well.

WYCKWOOD HOUSE

80 S. River St., Aurora 630-234-0813 www.wyckwoodhouse.com

Shannon Gutierrez, owner of Wyckwood House in Aurora and its second location in Wheaton, loves how denim can be a great versatile piece and crafted a look, seen on page 12, with a light blue denim dress where the ruffles offer a bit of fun for the summer. Gutierrez said the dress can pair well with sandals, tennis shoes and even boots to change up the look for any occasion.

This spring, Gutierrez said bright pastels are a popular trend, but added customers will also find olive green in the mix.

“It’s spring and everyone wants something fresh, clean and crisp,” Gutierrez said.

She’s created a unique shopping experience with her Aurora location, where she loves to host events in the boutique space. She’s booked girls night out events as well as fun bridal and baby showers as guests love to gather around the indoor bar that serves coffee, mocktails as well as beer, wine and cocktails.

Beyond the doors of Wyckwood House there are new restaurants and businesses adding to the revitalization of downtown Aurora.

“There are lots of new restaurants all around,” Gutierrez said. “It’s an exciting time.”

Wyckwood House is more than a clothing boutique – an indoor bar serves coffee, mocktails, wine and beer.

Fashion around town

Evernia

At Evernia we specialize in personal service, quality materials and unique fashion. We cater to everyone’s style and offer a broad range of fashionable options from clothing to accessories so we can help you put together your dream outfit for any occasion. Stop in and visit us today!

328 S. Third St., Geneva | 630-457-5445 | Find us on Facebook

Cali & Chance

Just cool stuff: That’s what you find at this California-style boutique with Midwest roots and philosophy. We’re a fun, authentic, multigenerational lifestyle shop featuring clothing, jewelry, decor and gifts. Our selection is constantly evolving. Stop in and be inspired. We also have a sister store, St. Charles Florist & Boutique, located in Wasco which also features flowers, seasonal garden, yard art as well as exciting boutique finds.

228 S. Third St., Geneva 630-659-6548 | Find us on Facebook

Anew Consignment

Anew is a luxury boutique located in downtown Geneva that specializes in modern women’s fashion and is revamping what consignment means. Anew focuses on providing women in the area with a way to freshen up their wardrobe without paying “new” prices every season and gives a new life to clothing that no longer suits your style or needs. We also appeal to the lady looking to add a little luxury to her life with our constantly changing stock of designer bags and accessories, ranging from Louis Vuitton to Chanel to Gucci. Anew has something great for every guest that stops by!

27 W. State St., Geneva | 630-262-0944 | www.anewwaytoshop.com

Baubles, Trimmings & Gilded Goods

By Patricia MacMillan Photos courtesy of Salt & Wilde

Awash in a color palette of soft pinks and purples, light blue and cream, Salt & Wilde’s aesthetic evokes notions of a whimsical garden party or an al fresco dinner at golden hour.

“I describe the shop as a women’s clothing boutique that carries feminine, romantic pieces,” said owner Shannon Trudel, who added that she’s always bringing in new items to keep offerings fresh for customers.

The shop, which now resides in Geneva Commons after stints as an online-only retailer and then part of The Rustic Fox marketplace, carries not only apparel, but a considerable selection of accessories, including jewelry, handbags and shoes.

“Earrings are our biggest seller,” said Truedel, who chooses pieces with details that complement the boutique’s clothes. Here she styles warm weather looks with accessories that shine.

Salt & Wilde carries a selection of special occasion purses, but function is still of the utmost importance. Trudel won’t entertain a design that doesn’t accommodate the essentials. “If it can’t fit your phone, what’s the point?”

Sustainable FASHION

Maximize the life of a wardrobe and keep clothing out of landfills

By Vicki Martinka Petersen n Photos courtesy of Liz & Kate Boutique

Living in the Midwest often means juggling two wardrobes: one consisting of thick, fluffy clothes for winter and one with lightweight cotton blends for summer. Fortunately, you can practice sustainable fashion by making your wardrobe work during multiple seasons.

“We all love the latest trends, but fads and trends come and go. Instead, we want clothing that’s affordable and will last multiple months throughout the year,” says Lynne Ball, owner of Liz & Kate Boutique in Geneva.

Layering is a good option to make clothes last longer than one season. For instance, people can wear a tank top then put on a heavy layer like a sweatshirt when it’s cool out. Another option is wearing a wrap or shawl over a sleeveless top.

“A classic blazer layers nicely over a T-shirt. And you can wear it outside like a regular jacket when the weather is warmer,” Ball says. While online shopping can be convenient, you could end up with clothing that doesn’t fit right or look the way you envisioned in person. While returning clothes can be an option, it comes at

the cost of time and gas spent delivering the clothes to your house then back to the store.

“Instead, take the time to go into a business. Let the staff help you find a nice piece that will last a long time because you enjoy it so much and it’s the right fit,” says Ball.

CLOTHES’ SECOND ACT

When the time comes for a piece of clothing to leave your wardrobe, if it’s still in good condition it could bring joy to a new user at a consignment shop.

“Instead of throwing away clothes, consider taking them to a consignment shop where someone else could enjoy that jacket if it no longer fits you,” says Tammi Rojek, owner Double Take Consignment in St. Charles.

Double Take Consignment offers an orientation for new sellers on Tuesdays to go over the selling guidelines. People can bring in 10 to 25 items, which go on the sales floor for 60 days. After that time, sellers can come back and take whatever is left.

“Selling is a nice way to make extra money,” Rojek says, noting her sellers keep 40% of profit.

Currently, the store is collecting summer clothes. For first time sellers, Rojek recommends coming into the store first to see what the store takes.

Rojek likens shopping at a consignment store like a treasure hunt where it helps to come in with an open mind and see what one finds.

“You’ll find truly one-of-a-kind treasures. If you want something specific like yellow jeans, we probably won’t have them in your size. But if you’re looking for jeans, we’ll have jeans,” Rojek says.

Another benefit of going to a consignment store is trying on fashion outside your comfort zone.

“If you don’t like it, you haven’t spent as much,” Rojek says. “I love listening to customers try on fun things they wouldn’t normally wear.”

SUSTAINABLE FASHION TIPS

n Buy classic pieces, like a black blazer or jean jacket, that’s fashionable for years and can be used year-round.

n For a more dressed up look, a Peruvian cotton jacket can be worn both indoors and outdoors.

n Look for clothes that can be machine washed, not dry cleaned.

n Purchase handbags in neutral colors, like blue or green, to use year-round.

optimizing wellness

Acupuncture is among the complementary medical services available through Sage Healing Collective in St. Charles.

Complementary medical services step into mainstream options to treat pain and improve overall health

BY PATRICIA SZPEKOWSKI | PHOTOS BY APRIL DUDA PHOTOGRAPHY

Are you in physical pain? Do you feel stressed and anxious? Causes of these conditions and symptoms vary as much as the number of people experiencing them. The initial approach for a cure to these issues, and others, is a visit to your medical doctor.

For the past 20 years, there has been a shift, or increase, in individuals seeking complementary health approaches. In a 2022 National Health Interview Survey by the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, results show the use of yoga, meditation and massage therapy increased the most from 2002 to 2022. It shows an increase in acupuncture, chiropractic and naturapathy, as well. These complementary health approaches increased to 36.7% in 2022 from 19.2% in 2002.

Local health care providers help clients of all ages with these trending holistic treatments to achieve optimum health.

Dr. Emily Loveland, chiropractic physician and owner of Sage Healing Collective in St. Charles, firmly believes in solving pain issues by addressing its root causes for healing. “There are a variety of therapies available to bring back the balance and harmony of your body and we take the time to discuss a clients’ problem and goals,” says Dr. Loveland.

“Acupuncture is a safe traditional Chinese medicine that is thousands of years old,” she says, “by using very small, hair-like needles, to stimulate 'chi' — the life energy force — through specific pathway points on the body. Cupping therapy, another ancient form of alternative medicine, involves vacuum pressure to create suction to pick up tissues. It is effective to release stagnant energy and increase blood flow by bringing oxygen to the tissues for healing.”

"No matter what age, we are able to get back to balance and feeling better."

Sage Healing Collective sees an increase in the use of spa services such as massage, reiki energy healing, light, sound, and vibration therapy to promote healing and relaxation. Sage offers an infrared light therapy sauna treatment that warms the body directly. “It’s an exceptional treatment to release the body’s negative ions,” adds Dr. Loveland. “With the use of our halotherapy

generator and therapeutic salt, these minute minerals rest on the skin for you to breathe in and effectively clean your lungs.”

A major focus for optimum health and wellness is good nutrition. Ashley Hendrickson, a functional medicine consultant for NutriDyn and a National Board-Certified Health Coach, also focuses on getting to the root of symptoms by identifying stressors, such as lack of sleep and too much or too little movement, among others. She is author of “Kiss Your Bloat Goodbye” which addresses a stepby-step guide to take control of your health.

“Hormone and bacterial imbalances cascade many issues,” says Hendrickson. “We need to remove stressors and modify our diet.” Hendrickson believes hot flashes with menopause and arthritis are common problems of age but not normal. “No matter what age, we are able to get back to balance and feeling better,” she said. “Modify your eating habits and you will see an improvement in mood, energy and digestion.” She suggests eliminating inflammatory foods from your system, like dairy, gluten, sugar, corn and soy.

No one knows your body more than you.

Listen to it, see your physician, and decide if a complementary alternative holistic treatment is right for you, too.

STEPS AGAINST HUNGER

Northern Illinois Food Bank hosting 11th Fight Hunger 5K and Fun Run

Jamie Baker | Photos by Meggan Florell Photography

One of the biggest problems facing our country is hunger, and at Northern Illinois Food Bank, contributing to the solution is their dedication. Through fundraising and events, Northern Illinois Food gathers resources to combat hunger locally in Illinois. Their next campaign for funds is an opportunity to get some exercise and bring the whole family for a day of joy – the Fight Hunger 5K and Fun Run.

“The purpose is to fundraise for our mission of providing food to the 900 food pantries, soup kitchens, and feeding programs that are in our network and that we serve throughout the 13 counties in Northern Illinois,” says Special Events and Promotions Manager Tiffany King. “We provide food to 560,000 people every single month: That’s 82 million meals a year. All of the funds raised through our fundraising efforts through the Fight Hunger event go toward that.”

This year will be the 11th 5K event for the nonprofit, set for Saturday, April 27 at the Oak Brook Reserve in Oak Brook, presented by Glanbia Performance Nutrition. “You can register as an individual,” says

King. “You can set up a team, you can share promo codes with organizations, school groups and companies” The Fun Run kicks off at 8:30 in the morning and is just over a mile in length, perfect for any age or fitness level.

The 5K will follow to start at 8:40. It is chip-timed and winds throughout the Oak Brook Reserve and Oak Brook Park District. “Both of the courses finish at the post-race festival which is filled with sponsor tents, a finish line beer, an interactive KidZone with a 55 foot gaming truck and a Touch a Truck,” says King. “There will be lively music, food trucks and giveaways from the sponsors. So, it’s just a fun family friendly event at the end where we just celebrate what we just accomplished on the course and how we helped the community.”

When it comes to fighting hunger, every penny counts. In fact, each dollar donated typically translates to eight dollars’ worth of groceries. “We actually have a very generous anonymous donor, who will be providing $50,000 to match every donated dollar for the Fight Hunger 5K event,” says King. “So actually, the impact will now be for every

one dollar donated or fundraised, we can help provide $16 worth of groceries for our neighbors.”

Register or volunteer at www.solvehungertoday. org/fighthunger.

Don’t forget to check out these other great events throughout the year and help support Northern Illinois Food Bank:

o A Taste That Matters on May 23 in Oakbrook Terrace

o The Hunger Scramble Golf Outing on Aug. 19 in Naperville. Use promo code SHAW for $10 off an adult registration.

A fairy tale evening for a local nonprofit

By Jamie Baker • Photos by Chris Guillen and Sam Peyton

Marklund is so much more than a nonprofit dedicated to assisting those with significant special needs and developmental disabilities. It is a safe haven for some of the most incredible humans in the world. Every year, those individuals and the organization that serves them celebrate their special relationship at the magnificent Top Hat Ball.

“It's always so magical,” says Chief Development Officer Heather Graves. “Being the 28th year, we always think about how we can top the year before, just with the theme and new and interesting things. Our goal is to create this whole unique experience and then back it with all these mission moments of what we do. We want to throw a great party, but we want to make sure we incorporate our mission throughout the night as well.”

2024’s Top Hat Ball theme was A Royal Affair, and Marklund delivered a spectacular, once-in-alifetime event for attendees. From paid actors and actresses down to the tiniest details for the night’s menu, every plan was meticulously laid out and executed to create a fantastical atmosphere full of life and merriment. Event Chairs Sandy and Mike Herlihy spent hours pouring over each aspect of

the ball, ensuring its resounding success. Marklund’s ambassador at the Top Hat Ball, Heather, a longtime resident, served on the event committee and as a greeter at the ball. “People were coming into this royal affair with all the magic and all things royal from decor, and an actors and actresses playing the parts at a royal event,” says Graves. “Then you have Heather greeting our guests as they come in, talking through her communication device, and she's all dressed up and excited as well as doing photo ops. It’s why we’re here.”

This year, the Top Hat Ball netted about $860,000 for Marklund, which Graves points out is around 18% of their total budget for the year. “I think beyond the dollars, the critical part of these huge events is just to bring people in to expose them to who we are,” says Signature Events Director Jeannine Zupo. “Each year, we have a platform to be able to introduce people to Marklund who may not otherwise have known. It's all of our leadership at all of our table sponsors and sponsors, introducing Marklund to new people each year. That’s how we really gain and keep momentum – growing our circle of influence each year to build our core constituents and people who support Marklund.”

MARKLUND’S TOP

HAT BALL

More about Marklund

• Marklund’s mission is to“make everyday life possible for individuals with profound disabilities." They are celebrating their 70th anniversary this year!

• Marklund serves 178 residents at their sites in Geneva, Bloomingdale and Elgin.

• CBRE in downtown Chicago has partnered with Live Art International and commissioned our residents, students and community clients to put together an Art Exhibit. The exhibit opened Jan. 18 and will run through April. Visit one.bidpal.net/737artexhibitwelcome to view and bid on art.

• The Run, Walk & Roll-Bloomingdale 5K/1M will be held on Sunday, April 21, 2024. For registration and donation information, visit https://p2p.onecause.com/rwrb7

• The 42nd Annual Golf Classic will be held on Thursday, June 6 at Cog Hill Golf & Country Club. Learn more at www.marklund.org/golfclassic.

Local Author Releases Debut Novel A peek into the story

From "The Shabti" by Megaera C. Lorenz (CamCat Books,

2024). Reprinted with permission.

Hermann straightened his tie and chuckled nervously. “I’m sure you must think I’m absolutely cuckoo.”

“Not at all,” Dashiel said, not without sincerity. As one of his mediumistic mentors, Maude Pembleton Fink, had been fond of saying, People don’t believe in spirits because they’re nuts, Quicke. They believe in them because they want to. “You mentioned there were other manifestations?”

“Oh! Absolutely.” Hermann gestured at the contents of the gallery. “As I was starting to explain to you upstairs, what you see before you is only a small part of our collection. The rest of it is in storage. This is where our star players get their moment in the spotlight.”

Local author Megaera Lorenz, an Egyptologist by training, will release her first novel “The Shabti” from CamCat Books on May 21, 2024. If you’re a fan of historical fantasy and supernatural thrills, you’re in for a treat.

“I got a PhD in Egyptology from the University of Chicago, but I've always had the idea of writing a novel sort of in the back of my mind, even throughout my entire grad school career, which is not really completely unprecedented,” says Lorenz. “I actually have a colleague from University of Chicago who also just came out with a novel set in ancient Egypt. So, it's kind of a tradition.”

Inspiration for “The Shabti” struck when Lorenz read a memoir by fake spiritualist medium Lamar Keene. “It had come out in the 70s, and it was called ‘The Psychic Mafia,’” says Lorenz. “In it, he talked about how these con artists ran their business, what the tricks of the trade were and his own experiences with it, as well as how he decided to break away from it all. That was when it all kind of came together.”

Lorenz thought his persona would make for a great protagonist and, combined with the idea to set the story in the 1930s, Lorenz cast her main characters as a fake medium and an Egyptologist who are “harassed” by a ghost. They are then tasked with solving the conflict together.

Read on for an excerpt from the novel, out May 21.

As Hermann spoke, Dashiel moved to peer into a nearby case. Inside was a fragmentary statue of an Egyptian queen. Only her head, shoulders, and upper torso remained. She gazed serenely ahead, an enigmatic smile on her lips.

“Ah, yes,” said Hermann, strolling over to join him. He regarded the queen with a hint of austerity. “She’s on loan to us from Chicago. I was really after these inlays from the Tell el-Yahudiya palace, but Professor Breasted magnanimously decided to throw her in as well.”

“She’s lovely.”

“I suppose so. But, between you and me, she’s a fake.”

Dashiel found himself intrigued. “What makes you think so?”

“Well, look at her!” said Hermann, as if he were genuinely surprised that it wasn’t obvious to even the most casual of observers. “A shebyu collar, on a queen of the early Eighteenth Dynasty, no less? And the lappets on her headdress look exceedingly strange. I can’t imagine how they didn’t spot it.”

“Why don’t you set the record straight?”

n Preorder the book

"The Shabti" by Megaera C. Lorenz is available for preorder online at www.camcatbooks.com/Books/T/The-Shabti

St. Charles resident Megaera Lorenz presents her breathtaking tale set in the 1930s

For the first time that Dashiel could recall in their brief acquaintance, Hermann scowled. “As if those swellheads would ever take my word for it. Just because they’ve got John D. Rockefeller Jr. eating out of their hands and throwing checks like confetti, those Chicago boys think they’re the be-all and end-all.” He paused, looking contrite. “Gosh, I’m being uncharitable, aren’t I? Don’t mind me, it’s just sour grapes.”

“Ah, well, I know all about those,” Dashiel assured him. “In the spirit business, we practically live on ’em.”

“Really! Is it an awfully competitive profession?”

“Good lord, you have no idea. Anyway, you seem like a fellow who knows his onions. You ought to publish a paper on it or something. Make horses’ asses out of the bunch of them.”

Hermann flashed a bashful grin, then shook his head. “No, I couldn’t. Well, maybe someday. Anyway, she’s not the real troublemaker here. It’s these little scoundrels.”

He led Dashiel to a nearby case labeled FUNERARY OBJECTS. It was full of odd things—tiny figurines,

ornate boxes, jars with lids shaped like human and animal heads, and jewels in the forms of beetles, eyes, and other objects that Dashiel couldn’t begin to identify.

None of it meant much to him. He knew little about ancient Egypt beyond what he’d learned from idly perusing the news in the papers about Tutankhamun’s tomb. That and a few tidbits of dubious veracity he’d picked up from his former partner, who had relished telling their clients that his Master Teacher from the spirit realm was an ancient Egyptian prince. Among the other illustrious spirit guides he had claimed over the years were a medieval Irish monk, a Roman centurion, and one of the original disciples of Confucius.

Hermann pointed out a little human figure, shaped like a miniature mummy with its legs bundled together and its arms folded over its chest. It was made of some coarse bluish-gray material, with traces of shiny glaze clinging to it here and there. A crude face was painted on it in black ink, and Dashiel could make out remnants of a faded hieroglyphic text running down the front of its legs.

“This shabti,” Hermann said, “appears utterly

unremarkable in every respect. The inscription is formulaic, and the style is typical of the early New Kingdom. But I’m always finding it in places where it ought not to be.”

Dashiel frowned, puzzled. “You mean it leaves the case?”

“Ah! Well, no. Not of its own accord, anyway. But it’s supposed to stay here, by its label, and it seems to just . . . wander. One morning I’ll find it in the corner here, the next day over there, among the amulets.”

“I see.”

“But,” Hermann went on quickly, “on occasions when I’ve had it out for study, that’s when it ends up in all sorts of odd places. There was one evening when I’m quite certain I left it out on my desk, you know, in the tray with the cotton wool. When I came in the next morning, the tray was empty. I nearly had a coronary. I turned my whole office upside down looking for the little rascal, only to have it show up in my desk drawer.”

“That is strange.”

“Isn’t it just!” He fixed Dashiel with huge, expectant eyes.

Arts

Explore in Elgin

DAY 1

Before getting started on exploring the wonderful Elgin art scene, check into where you’ll be staying. Once settled in, head into downtown Elgin for the farmers market. This open-air market runs every Friday from June-October and is a popular place for local artisans to sell their goods. There is also live music and lots of family-friendly activities for everyone to enjoy. If you happen to stop by in the evening time, you’ll love the dazzling lights strung up throughout the downtown area. Then, you can grab a bite to eat at Kubo Sushi and Sake Lounge. This eatery presents a combination of traditional Japanese culture and food with a subtle California twist. Next, check the Explore Elgin Area website to see what events are happening! On our calendar of more than 1500+ events you can find any style of event you want. Whether it’s familyfriendly or a night out listening to some live music at Rookie’s RocHaus in West Dundee, you’ll find what you are looking for.

The Elgin Area has an underground arts scene many don’t know about. Following this itinerary ensures you’ll be hitting all the must-see spots, including a self-guided public arts tour, while also getting to enjoy the nearby shops, eateries and experiences.

DAY 2

Start today with breakfast at Dream Hall 51. Grab a quick bite and a handcrafted coffee before walking around downtown. See some breathtaking murals, sculptures and architecture while you do so. Walk along the Fox River with the Elgin Public Arts SelfGuided Walking Tour. Or you could take a different route and head to the civic plaza to see multiple stunning art pieces. There’s also a number of antique and artisan shops that can be enjoyed along the way! As evening starts to roll in, check out a local museum. If you happen to want something more active see the beautiful walking architecture tours or go biking on the Fox River Bike Trail with bike rentals in Carpentersville. In the summer, enjoy some fresh air at one of the Elgin Area’s beautiful outdoor beer gardens. Old Republic Kitchen + Bar, Plank Road Tap Room or Rosie O’Hare’s have some great spots to sit and sip while hanging out with nature. These are fantastic places to bring some friends and relax.

DAY 3

Head to East Dundee for a coffee flight and breakfast at Eastside Café where you can order a waffle bowl, a variety of specialty toasts or a baked good to satisfy that sweet tooth. Or, if you are looking for something a little different, go over the river and see Elder + Oat in West Dundee. Get a glutenfree mini-loaf and a delicious latte to start your morning. After that, explore the day how you want it! Take a self-guided art tour and see the murals, galleries, and more- right here in the Elgin Area.

DAD, THE WAYFINDER

In a digital age, Superdad defends paper maps and good old-fashioned geography knowledge

Every dad has moments that they live for. Most of them recognize when those moments arrive.

But their kids and spouses almost certainly know when those moments will land.

As proof, one need only scroll through a certain subset of TikTok or Instagram Reels. In particular, watch those videos tagged as POV (for Point of View) and Dad or #dadlife or some variation thereof.

There you'll see them on full display: The dads who live for the moment the car begins making a sound.

The dads who live for the first time the grass grows tall enough to mow each year, so they can return to flashing their landscaping brilliance, leaving perfectly striped sod, where others may merely cut down their weeds.

Or those who long for the return of autumn's kaleidoscopic glory, simply so they can break out the

heavy lawn equipment and allow their foliage-free yard to show what really separates the suburban men from the yuppy boys.

My personal favorite? Those offering a glimpse of the dad on a family vacation, stepping forth boldly in the twin roles of lord protector and pack mule, as he guides his beloved flock bravely through the airport or on a road trip, keeping his family on schedule for maximum fun amid minimal disruption, while lugging more than his fair share of the family's baggage – literally and figuratively – all while his family rolls their eyes and giggles off camera, thanklessly.

In the real world, a particular member of the family takes great delight in emergency preparedness, often taking the time to locate hospitals with trauma centers before heading out on excursions, and closely monitoring weather radar and emergency alerts amid severe weather outbreaks.

To his credit, he has been a blessing on family

camping trips, as we know he can readily produce a beast of a first aid kit brimming with everything you may need when a kid inevitably does something stupid and ends up screaming, while something is bleeding.

And if the proverbial excrement really hits the fan someday, you can bet his house and its well-stocked racks of emergency supplies will be high on the list of primary destinations for this bunch, as we absorb the well-deserved "I told you so's" (with great gratitude.)

But my prime dad moment?

It's a bit simpler – but it, too, would include a goodnatured "I told you so."

And it is tied inextricably to an old school U.S. road atlas tucked discretely beneath the back seat of our daily driver.

For years, I and my young ones (and other people's young ones) have had a running debate about the importance of geography. For certain, that discussion

has covered the importance of memorizing state capital, and at least having a rough idea of where you live in relation to, say, the nearest major city.

It's also touched on the importance of being able to locate global hotspots on an actual globe, from time to time.

But more to the point, the discussion has actually centered on "wayfinding."

Usually, the conversation has involved some variation of the question: "If you were dropped in the middle of nowhere without your phone, would you be able to find your way home - or anywhere else that matters?"

Or more precisely: "What would you do without Google Maps?"

Please understand: This is not a put down of Google Maps or any other highly accurate GPS-based wayfinding system. Whenever we set off on any long trip, you can be assured that the destination address has been firmly placed in the algorithm before we pull out of the driveway.

Or at least before we leave unfamiliar territory.

And that's the point: Years of studying maps and traveling by foot, bicycle, train and automobile has led to the creation of a large and growing internal atlas,

stored in the old dad brain. Up until very recently in human history, such an achievement was nothing special. It was considered a basic survival skill.

Want to go from Chicago to Springfield? We could do it.

Is the destination a bit farther, say, Florida?

Old timers could tell you it involves a long drive, generally southeast, through Indiana, Kentucky, Tennessee and Georgia, with potential stopovers in Nashville, Chattanooga or Atlanta.

Allow me to hike up the ol' waistband for a moment and add: "Back in my day, you could drive a very long way before you ever looked at a map" (and add in a much quieter voice) "or asked for directions."

Alas, any such talk is now usually met with a polite pat on the head or perhaps an eyeroll and giggle, received as the rantings of a dinosaur who doesn't know the asteroid slammed home long ago.

But recently, the unthinkable. Whether by solar flare, subterfuge or a fluke of fate, the central nervous system of modern society nearly collapsed, as entire cell networks crashed.

For hours that felt like days, tens of millions of Americans could not watch TikToks or query their smartphones to help them with anything, much less

how to get anywhere. America was nearly plunged back into the horrors of the Mapquest era.

Thankfully, to my knowledge, no one needed to activate a disaster preparedness plan.

But it did offer the opportunity for my brother-in-law to ask his young ones what lesson they may have gleaned from this.

For me? Nothing so profound. But it did give the satisfaction of reminding certain people that in the case of a wayfaring emergency, there is still that book of paper maps, tucked securely under the backseat, standing ready to perhaps one day provide me with that elusive prime dad moment.

n Jonathan Bilyk writes about the triumphs and travails of being a modernday dad who legitimately enjoys time with his family, while tolerating a dog that seems to adore him. He also doesn’t really like the moniker “Superdad” because it makes it sound like he wants to wear his undergarments on the outside of his pants. (Also,the cape remains on back order.)

Founded in 2012 by Dr. Joan Maloof, Old-Growth Forest Networks has recognized more than 200 forests in 36 states. A full list and map of OGFN Network forests

www.oldgrowthforest.net.

St. Charles Park District celebrates Norris Woods' induction into national Old-Growth Forest Network

SThe Venerable Woodland

t. Charles Park District’s Norris Woods Nature Preserve, heralded as one of the most outstanding oak woodlands remaining in northeastern Illinois, will soon receive another accolade: membership in the national Old Growth Forest Network (OGFN), a national organization that celebrates our oldest protected and publicly accessible forests.

The public is invited to attend a special induction ceremony of the 76acre Norris Woods Nature Preserve at 1 p.m. Saturday, April 6. Nick Sanchez, OGFN’s Network Manager will be on hand to bestow the honor, as will Ann and Vic Berardi, area residents who with Nick evaluated the Kane County contenders. Guided trail walks through the springtime woods will follow the brief program. Guests will explore the grounds, search for spring ephemerals and learn about the area’s rich history.

For more than 100 years, from 1840 to

the 1970s, Norris Woods was known to local residents as Jones Woods in honor of its first owner, Stephen S. Jones – one of St. Charles’ earliest settlers and its first lawyer. In 1930, the parcel was purchased by local resident Lester Norris; then, in 1970, the Nature Conservancy acquired the land and deeded it to the Park District and City. In 1973, the name was changed to Norris Woods and the area was dedicated as an Illinois State Nature Preserve, which assures its preservation for all time. In 1992, the City granted all the property to the care of the Park District.

“Norris Woods is a really special place to many people in our community,” said Pam Otto, the Park District’s outreach ambassador. “Its cultural history is fascinating and its natural history dates back to the last Ice Age.”

A remnant of the original dry-mesic upland forests that once bordered the Fox River, Norris Woods contains several oak trees in the 150 to 200-year-old

range. Colorful wildflowers dot the woodland floor in springtime before giving way to lush green foliage in summer.

“Our restoration ecologists devote much time and effort to preserving the woodland’s distinctive biodiversity,” Otto said, noting that the woods’ rich mix of plant life provides excellent habitat for many woodland mammals and more than 50 species of nesting birds.

In summertime, keep your eyes and ears open for the sights and sounds of Eastern wood-peewees, red-eyed vireos, indigo buntings, white-breasted nuthatches and blue jays, as well as several species of woodpeckers and hawks. Along the river, be on the lookout for foraging great blue herons and great egrets, as well as soaring bald eagles and ospreys.

Norris Woods Nature Preserve was selected as the representative oldgrowth forest for Kane County and the fifth OGFN site in Illinois. OGFN

may be viewed at

Photo provided by St. Charles Park District

Woodland

is a nonprofit working to connect people with nature by creating a national network of protected, publicly accessible old-growth forests and a network of people to protect them.

“This award is a testament to the consistent and constant work our staff have done in preserving trees and maintaining diverse native plantings within the Norris Woods Nature Preserve. To be the first (and currently only) within Kane County awarded this distinction is wonderful,” said Executive Director Holly Cabel.

OGFN is a national nonprofit organization dedicated to creating a national network of forests with exceptional ecological integrity. As stated in its literature, the network consists of “treasured forests where all generations can experience native biodiversity and the beauty of nature.”

OFGN’s Nick Sanchez remarks, “We’re excited to kick off spring in the Midwest with a celebration at

Norris Woods. A big thanks to OGFN volunteers, Vic and Ann Berardi, for nominating this location and to the St. Charles Park District for their critical work in caring for and educating the community about this special place.”

Norris Woods will join the four Illinois forests that were inducted into the Network in 2023, which include Beall Woods State Park in Wabash County, Allerton Park in Piatt County, Independence Grove in Lake County and Pilcher Park in Will County. Working with volunteers across the country, OGFN’s goal is to identify and ensure the preservation and recognition of at least one forest in every county in the United States, celebrating our nation’s oldest forests.

Norris Woods is located off Johnor and Third Avenues, just north and east of downtown St. Charles. For more information, contact Pam Otto, St. Charles Park District’s outreach ambassador at potto@stcparks.org.

OF THE MONTH

Artist Katherine Marra

The Tri-Cities are booming with arts and artists — perhaps nowhere more vibrantly than Batavia’s Water Street Studios, which hosts events, galleries and up to 25 artists in residence. Each month, Kane County Magazine and Water Street Studios are partnering to highlight artists and their work.

Katherine Marra is an intuitive artist, showing much of her mental and emotional process for each piece in the finished product. “Once set in motion, my collages are animated by chance and accident,” she says. “Poured paint, canvas, and paper that accumulate in layers are then peeled away from each other, reassembled, and reglued several times. Bitten textures and acidic plumes map the spaces between my indecision, inattention, and tendency to daydream.”

After becoming a resident artist of Water Street Studios in 2015, Marra left to pursue a Master of Fine Arts in the School of Art Institute of Chicago, eventually returning to Water Street in 2020. “I am not currently teaching any classes at Water Street, but I am working on an idea for a class that combines imagined garden and fountain designs with collage,” she says.

Marra’s artistic journey began when she was a child attending free classes at her local park district on Saturday mornings. “I discovered the ability of art to calm and focus my mind,” she says. “I particularly remember a sculpture

project where we bent willow strips into figures and how much I loved working with the materials. Several decades later, to relieve stress, I had the opportunity to begin taking art classes again and I have not looked back.”

Just last year, Marra followed her spontaneous inspiration and began to create a new piece while in the studio at Water Street. “One day…I moved across the hall to a new studio at Water Street,” she says. “Even though I was tired from setting up my new space, I began painting. The new piece came together quickly and seemed to paint itself. It embodied everything I had been trying to achieve over the past year. I titled the painting, ‘Keel,’ and for me it embodies the simultaneous feeling of motion and stability, which I was seeking.”

Art is more than just a passion or hobby, it can be an outlet, a therapy, an expression of the times and so much more. “Art is an opportunity to share a personal expression of one’s lived experiences,” says Marra. “The availability of art to all is vital, as the shared range of experiences strengthens the ability of a community to grow and adapt.”

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DETAILS OF Katherine Marra's WORK:

To view more of Katherine Marra's art, visit her website at www.ksmarra.com.

u Keel: 2023, 24 x 36 inches, acrylic collage on panel, $1,500

v Astronaut: 2023, 16 x 16 inches, acrylic collage on panel, $500

w Vessel: 2022, 24 x 18 inches, acrylic collage on panel, $700

x Lark: 2022, 24 x 18 inches, acrylic collage on panel, $700

About the Artist

Katherine Marra is an artist who makes biomorphic collages. She studied landscape architecture and has always been interested in how contemporary art concepts might inspire landscape design. In 2015, she took her first figure drawing class as a way of relieving the stress of daily life. She continued taking drawing, painting, and printmaking classes, eventually, in 2019, earning a Master of Fine Arts from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago. She has been a resident artist at Water Street Studios on and off since 2015 and exhibits in Kane and DuPage Counties.

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Grab a

FOR ADULTS:

Reading a good book never goes out of style! Here are two recommendations for your April reading list, courtesy of the librarians at Geneva Public Library.

Wrong Place Wrong Time" by Gillian McAllister

On Oct. 30, the day before Halloween, Jen Hiles looks out her window, anxiously waiting for the arrival of her 17-year-old son Todd. Instead, she witnesses him stab a man on their driveway. She and her husband rush outside to find the stranger is dead. Todd is arrested immediately for murder, refuses a lawyer and is held in custody until the following day. Desperate, shaken and terrified, Jen has no choice but to wait at home. When she wakes up the next morning, Jen is shocked to discover that time has run backwards. It is Oct. 29, the day before the stabbing, and her family has no recollection of the event. Jen believes she has been given a chance to undo the murder – but each day she wakes up she travels farther backward and becomes less sure she can fix things. Jen is certain this was happening so she could correct something in the past to change the course of Todd’s future. But what could it be, and how far in the past must she go? This novel is fast-paced, intriguing and original! With twist after mind-boggling twist, this page-turner will captivate the reader until the breathtaking ending. Perfect for fans of psychological suspense, this one will keep you guessing!

– Mary Foster, Library Associate

FOR KIDS:

"Super Pancake" by Megan Wagner Lloyd, illustrated by Abhi Alwar

Welcome to Breakfast Town, home of Peggy Pancake and an array of delicious characters. Peggy is merely ordinary, living in the shadow of her perfect brother while enduring regular torment from the Bacon Bullies at school. But after a mishap with a secret potion, Peggy obtains superhero powers! While these abilities give Peggy a newfound purpose and the strength to defend herself and others in Breakfast Town, they also put her in the direct path of the evil Dr. Breakfast Sandwich and his diabolical Henchtoasts, and they won’t let anyone get in the way of their sinister plans. Can Peggy and her new sidekick Luc Croissant save the day? This is the first book in a new intermediate graphic novel series for young readers, chock full of tasty food puns that are as endless as they are hilarious. The cartoony illustrations pop from the page with a style reminiscent of colored pencil drawings, bringing each character to life as this adventure unfolds. The story is fast-paced and focuses on themes of friendship, family expectations and finding strength in acts both heroic and kind. Highly recommended to fans of other adventurous and humorous graphic comic series such as Investigators, Dog Man and Agent Moose.

– Erin W., Librarian

Must-Haves Garden

12 TIME-TESTED PLANTS TO BOOST YOUR LANDSCAPE

Ihave about 10,000 types of plants on my plant wish list because I have one of the largest garden centers in Illinois at my fingertips. But holy cow … that can be very overwhelming, even for seasoned plant people.

I get so excited this time of year when all of those plants start filling the aisles and every nook and cranny of the garden center is stuffed with color and amazing things. There are new plants on every truck that wow us each year, but also all of our old favorites that are tried and true.

As a designer, I have to suggest plants that will work for my clients and provide great characteristics and thrive. How do I weed through all of the candidates? Years of experience helps, but new plants come out each year, so I can’t rely on that all the time. Believe it or not, I rely on my weathered old notebook of lists of plants. I have categories such as “dry shade,” “native” and “small ornamentals,” but

also categories like “tough to grow,” “terrible fall color,” and “don’t do what they say they do!”

But if you were to organize my lists, I think a pattern would start to show through. My favorite, time-tested varieties would rise to the top. I also plant a lot of plants in my own garden. I certainly don’t practice what I preach when it comes to design principles as I plant a lot of one-offs so I can try new things to report back to you. I plant sun plants in shade to see what happens. I have strategically planted trees (over 20!) in my yard to see how they do in suburban confinement. I also kill a lot of plants … but let's call it “research and development," not “kill.”

When it comes to plants that grow in Illinois, I’ve pretty much grown it myself, seen it growing somewhere or killed it. Ask me about a plant and it would be rare for me not to know about it!

Here’s some of those favorites – old and new –that you “must have” in your garden!

PERENNIALS

o Alliums – a top favorite, nothing eats them, nothing kills them, long bloom time, good for pollinators; favorites are Serendipity and Medusa

o Helleborers – lots of new varieties, evergreen, blooms in March/April, deer and rabbit proof, lots of colors now, good cut flower; favorites are Dorothy’s Dawn and Ivory Prince

o Salvia – old varieties are great but some of the newer ones are even better, longtime color, pollinator friendly, pinks, blues, purples and whites, good cut flower, rabbit/deer proof; favorites are Back the Fuschia and Caradonna

o Sedum – I could write a whole article on sedum because they are all tough and easy, versatile plants that will grow in hot dry areas with little care. Small creeping ones all the way up to some that get 2-3 inches tall, all are pollinator magnets; favorites are VooDoo, Firecracker and Neon

SHRUBS

o Hydrangeas – Pretty much every hydrangea I’ve come in contact with has wowed me. I’m not a fan of the colored types, however, because they are too fussy. Fun to try but unrewarding for the most part. The panicle, oakleaf and mop head types are the way to go. Tough, easy, floriferous; favorites are Little Lime Punch, Bobo, Invincibelle Spirit II and Gatsby Girl

o Viburnum – the workhorse of the landscape, nondescript but grow just about everywhere, great for screening in most cases, fragrance on the V, judd types, excellent fall color; favorites are Opening Day and Spice Baby

o Ninebark - rabbit proof, burgundy foliage, comes in small/medium/ large (so one for every spot). I’m starting to like the gold foliaged types, too! My favorites are Tiny Wine and Amber Jubilee.

o Holly – The deciduous hollies that grow here are great for attracting birds! Nondescript, simple plants, but in the fall they develop bright red berries that native birds love, great foundation or border plant, easy to grow, need a male for every two or three females; favorite is Berry Poppins (and Mr. Poppins)

TREES

o Seven Son Flower – one of my all-time favorites, flowers in fall, pollinator heaven, fragrant, has peeling bark that is attractive in winter, looks like a shrub but can be pruned into a small tree

o Redbuds – I love the native species, but all of the new ones are equally beautiful. Lots of new leaf colors such as burgundy, gold and speckled white. All flower pink/purple in spring and grow quickly, good smaller ornamental for just about any yard; favorites are Rising Sun and Midnight Express

o Oaks – Not only are they native to Illinois but they are tough and beautiful and easy to grow! It’s a myth that they grow slowly (sure, when they are 50 years old, but when young they do fine!). Acorns feed wildlife and over 200 pollinators use oaks. If you have room, plant one! I love Swamp White and Red Oaks.

o Crabapples – Often on the “most hated” list, but only because the older varieties drop fruit and leaves, but TA-DA! The newer cultivars are bred to be much better performers – more disease resistant and the fruit stays on all winter, and the birds take it before spring. So plant a new crabapple soon and you’ll get fancy flowers in spring, great food for wildlife and good fall color, too! Favorites are Royal Raindrops and Red Jewel

Meagan Provencher is the Senior Landscape Designer at Wasco Nursery in St. Charles. She can be reached at 630-584-4424 or design@wasconursery.com. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter!

BLUES? Tax-Season

Make your investment portfolio more tax-efficient

Optimists greet this time of year with "April showers bring May flowers" as we welcome the first full month of spring. For others, it can be hard to think of April positively because it is traditionally the month for filing tax returns.

For many hard-working Americans, the combination of state and federal taxes can take a depressingly large chunk of our annual income. In fact, it is so commonly maligned that Tax Freedom Day is monitored and celebrated. (Tax-Freedom Day is a concept developed and trademarked by American businessman Dallas Hostetler, which aims to calculate

the first day of the year on which a nation as a whole has theoretically earned enough income to pay its taxes. Every dollar that is officially considered income by the government is counted, and every payment to the government that is officially considered a tax is counted. Taxes at all levels of government – local, state and federal – are included.)1

Although this year’s Tax-Freedom Day falls on April 16, for those in the highest tax brackets that day is even later in the year. If you are like most of our clients, taxes represent the largest drag on investment portfolios, which makes tax-efficient investment strategies paramount.

1Source: Wikipedia

WHAT ARE WAYS TO MAKE A PORTFOLIO MORE TAX-EFFICIENT?

Tax-efficient portfolios can be a Holy Grail for wealthy investors. Each person’s situation should be considered unique, and we recommend that you work with your financial advisor and your qualified tax counsel to address. Due to space constraints, allow us to share just a few common areas of pain and inefficiency that new prospective clients bring to our team:

n Portfolios with high turnover.

Turnover can be viewed as the frequency in which a security in a portfolio is traded. Securities that are bought and sold within a year, or "turned over," often are taxed at ordinary income tax rates. Those that are held for longer are typically taxed at long-term capital gains tax rates, which can be much more favorable.

n Misplaced fixed income holdings.

It makes us cringe when high net worth people come into our office and have municipal bonds in their traditional IRAs without any explanation as to why. In general, tax-advantaged bonds usually have lower yields than than bonds like corporate bonds. Since distributions from a traditional IRA are taxed as ordinary income, having a lower yielding, tax-advantaged bond inside an IRA account is often inefficient. Likewise, the absence of municipal bonds in the fixed-income allocation in a trust, individual or joint account should raise eyebrows.

n Retirement income stream mistakes.

Many people work hard their whole lives to get to a point where they can enjoy a retirement lifestyle, only to fumble the ball when they begin to pull out a retirement income stream from their portfolio. If you’ve planned ahead and have diversified types of investment accounts, the order of where you pull retirement income can make a big difference. Raymond James’ Goal Planning and Monitoring financial planning process can help illustrate those differences and further empower you to make good, impactful decisions.

When was the last time you explored the tax-efficiency of your portfolio with your qualified tax-advisor and your financial advisor together? What is your plan for a tax-efficient retirement income stream?

For conversations beyond returns and asset-allocation, give our team a call.

APRIL 2024

Happy April Fools Day!

Take the opportunity to check out summer camps and park district programming for the kiddos and get signed up!

Geneva French Market returns on Sundays from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Head over to Marklund's Run, Walk and Roll 5K/1M, registration required to participate.

Happy Earth Day!

Take the time to find ways to live green!

Take action on Save the Elephant Day and learn more about their plight.

Catch a showing of "A Street Car Named Desire" at the Paramount Theatre in Aurora at 1:30 p.m. or 7 p.m.

Thank professional bibliophiles on National School Librarian Day!

Take in a performance of "Beautiful: The Carol King Musical" at Paramount Theatre in Aurora.

Celebrate your furbabies on National Pet Day!

St. Charles Community Garage Sale from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Drop in for Nature Play on Earth Day at Hickory Knolls Discovery Center.

Community Garage Sale

Clip out this page

and plan ahead for the month of April!