KCC_KC Magazine December 2023

Holiday

Edition

Step Inside the Fabyan Windmill DECEMBER 2023

Take a closer look at a local landmark Page 22

A Kane County

Christmas Season of Giving

Check out local nonprofits for a chance to give back Page 16

Shop Local

Add these unique boutiques to your wish list this year Page 10

Outdoor Dining in the Winter

Stay cozy at these eateries around Kane County Page 12

Christmas at The Berry House Shops 227 S. Third Street, Geneva, IL 60134

Downstairs November 15th - January 15th Come see our

VINTAGE CHRISTMAS The largest selection of vintage Christmas items in the Midwest!

630-208-1150 SM-CL2123033

Pixies On Main Tinker Belz Art LLC

Flameworked glass gallery and studio

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Classes, Gifts, Sculpture Jewelry and more 227 S Third St., Suite 108 Geneva 331-203-5162 www.tinkerbelzart.com

Home - Gifts - Antiques - Furniture - Jewelry & More 227 S. Third St., Suite 101, Geneva 630-457-5587

Our t s a o R We e! and e f f o C n Ow r and decaf, flasvtaoteredgrown

(630) 402-1485 antiques@theuncommonfind.com European Antiques Furniture & Finery

Please follow us on Instagram @theuncommonfind

SM-CL1934539A

SM-CL2123309

~ regula nically e Coffeesvored, and orga non-fla

Holiday Teas & Coffees Assorted Gift Sets

630-845-3255

www.coffeedropshop.com DECEMBER

2023

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Managerʼs

NOTE The excitement and energy felt around the holidays in Kane County is invigorating.

Everywhere you look, you’ll find local shops adorning their businesses with festive decorations as they welcome customers in search of finding the perfect gift. If you are feeling creative, consider making a unique decoration to gift, or keep, by signing up for a workshop or class at one of the businesses listed on P. 9. Our editor, Kelley White, has recommended several establishments who offer apparel, jewelry, home décor, art and handcrafted items to help guide your holiday shopping this year (P. 10).

As you spend extra time connecting with family and friends over special meals, holiday parties and events, consider scheduling a date at one of the many restaurants in the area who offer outdoor dining options (P. 12). Alternatively, if you are an early riser or want to find a family friendly breakfast, brunch/lunch spot that offers freshly prepared menu items, First Watch in Geneva is a great option (P. 33).

I love decorating our home for the winter season. The warmth and coziness our family creates while trimming the tree and placing treasured decorations in and outside our home is such a comfort. Wasco Nursery has provided several tips for decorating your landscape, porch planters, entryways, window boxes and wreaths (P. 20.)

No matter how you best enjoy and celebrate this season, we hope you create lasting memories and can spend quality time with those who mean the most to you. From all of us at Kane County Magazine, happy holidays!

Jaclyn Cornell, Local Sales Manager

on the

COVER

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, Diane Krieger Spivak and Chris Walker 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.

Photographer April Duda captures the hometown magic found throughout Kane County each holiday season.

Next month: The start of a new year is the perfect time to focus on yourself. Don’t miss the health and wellness issue in January!

4 DECEMBER 2023

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

Let Us Make Your Holiday Meal Special!

• Chef Pasquale Beef Tenderloin • Boneless Rolled Pork Loin Marinated Tenderloin Stuffed with two 1 Roast lb. Cold Water Lobster Tails -Heat & Eat! • Italian Beef in Gravy • Prime Rib of Beef • Boars Head Deli Meat Trays • Whole Beef Tenderloins • Cold Water Lobster Tails • Chateaubriand • Colossal Cooked Shrimp • Turkeys • Variety of Fish • Crown Roast of Pork with • HUGE King Crab Legs Stuffing • Our Own Honey Baked Ham • Over 40 Varieties of Fresh Gourmet Pastas (Sliced, Tied & Glazed) • Rack of Lamb • Boneless Rib Eye Roast • Farm Raised Geese

How about a Custom Gift Box of our Gourmet Steaks?

Custom packaged & wrapped GREAT FOR CLIENTS & BUSINESS ASSOCIATES

Gift Certificates

Make Great Envelope & Stocking Stuffers

Full Service Catering Available! Book Early!

Engstrom Plaza 716 West State St., Geneva (Entrance on 7th Street) 630-262-1878

www.josefsmeats.com

DECEMBER

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5

INSIDE

Whatʼs

THE HOLIDAY SEASON

FAMILY & ENTERTAINMENT

8 CALENDAR Save the date for these exciting events in December!

26 LESSONS IN THE LEAVES Suburban Superdad lets the season teach about time

9 HANDMADE FOR THE HOLIDAYS Make gifting extra special with help from local studios

28 GRAB A BOOKMARK Add “The Snow Child” and “Winterhouse” to your reading list this month

10 EDITOR’S CHOICE FOR SHOPPING LOCAL Add any of these unique boutiques to your list this year 12 OUTDOOR DINING IN WINTER Stay cozy at these eateries around Kane 16 SEASON OF GIVING Check out these local nonprofits for a chance to give back 18 CHRISTMAS IN GENEVA Mark your calendars for these holiday festivities 20 GREENING UP YOUR HOLIDAYS Wasco Nursery helps you trim your home to perfection

HISTORY 22 STEP INSIDE THE FABYAN WINDMILL Take a closer look at a local landmark 24 GENEVA HISTORY MUSEUM Make your next outing a fun-filled educational adventure

6 DECEMBER 2023

30 ARTIST OF THE MONTH Leah Homer brings natural textures to life in her hands

NEW IN TOWN 32 FIRST WATCH COMES TO GENEVA New restaurant presents familiar comforts, freshly prepared

BUSINESS & CIVIC 34 ’TIS THE SEASON My Advisor and Planner helps plan for charitable donations in your budget

Community oriented.

Community minded. Community answers.

community bank.

St. Charles 10 Illinois Street | (630) 549-7065 | www.sterbank.bank

Your Future Is with Us!

DECEMBER

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calendar

DECEMBER 2023 SUN

MON

TUE

WED

THU

e g a p s i h t t Clip ou

1

FRI

2

SAT

Geneva Christmas Walk begins

Join in and make Gingerbread House creations at the Baker Community Center

9

and plan ahead for the month of December!

3

4

5

6

Vote for your favorite Giving Tree in Geneva to help support local charities. Find other nonprofits to support on pg. 16

10

11

Sign up for The Christmas Within ornament painting class at Pinot’s Palette. Find other art classes on the next page!

Breakfast with Santa at the Pottawatomie Community Center in St. Charles

17

18

12

19

Create an adorable holiday decoration with the gnome centerpiece workshop at Heinz Brothers Greenhouse

24

25

Merry Christmas!

Christmas Eve

New Year’s Eve

31 SEASON DECEMBER 2023 8 HOLIDAY

13

20

7

8

Happy Hanukkah!

Holiday begins at sundown.

Make sure you deliver your letters to Santa by today at the St. Charles Park District!

14

15

16

Visit Christkindl Market in Aurora from 11 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Batavia House Decorating Contest winners are announced

Visit Santa at the Winter Wonderland in Geneva from 10:30 - 3 p.m.

Find more holiday fun on pg. 18

21

22

23

28

29

30

Catch a performance of “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” at the Paramount in Aurora @ 7 p.m.

26

27

Take the time to enjoy a truly spectacular light show display, “Illumination: Tree Lights,” at the Morton Arboretum

GIFT CERTIFICATES FOR THE HOLIDAYS!

A Gift for you!

Serving Breakfast All Day Long

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CITY AUTO

Places to visit for a seasonal project

TRI

for the

HOLIDAYS I

n ALL THINGS ART STUDIO 1106 W. Main St., St. Charles 331-235-5032 | allthingsartstudio.com • Winter: Painting Adults, Dec. 13 • Winter: Silk Painting Adults, Dec. 13 • Wednesday Workshop, Dec. 20 • Art Day Camp, Dec. 27

n HEINZ BROTHERS GREENHOUSE 2010 E. Main St., St. Charles (630) 377-6288 | heinzbrothers.com • Winter Container Workshop, Dec. 5 • Porch Gnome Workshop, Dec. 5 • Adult Centerpiece class, Dec. 18

n COLOR ME MINE 1306 Commons Dr., Geneva 630-262-9000 | geneva.colormemine.com • Family Fridays – half off studio fees, Dec. 8, 15, 22, 29 • Adults Night Out Paint and Sip, Dec. 7, 14, 21, 28

n PINOT’S PALETTE ST. CHARLES 3823 E. Main St., St. Charles 630-338-0278 pinotspalette.com/stcharles • Starry Night in Winter scene, Dec. 9 • The Christmas Within ornament painting, Dec. 10 • Holidays in a Glass still life, Dec. 11

n FINE LINE ARTS CENTER 37W570 Bolcum Rd., St Charles 630-584-9443 | fineline.org • Needle Felting Holiday Workshop, Dec. 6 • Yarn Stash Basket, Dec. 9

n TINKERBELZ ART 227 S. Third St., Suite 108, Geneva 331-203-5162 | tinkerbelzart.com • Glass Icicle Class, Dec. 8 • Simple Blown Ornaments, Dec. 9 • Simple Blown Ornaments, Dec.16 n WATER STREET STUDIOS 160 S. Water St., Batavia 630-761-9977 | waterstreetstudios.org • Holiday Origami Artist’s Book Making Workshop, Dec. 9 • Watercolor & Ink Workshop – Paint & Sip, Dec. 21

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By Jamie Baker | Photos courtesy of Pinot’s Palette

f you’re looking for a gift straight from the heart, consider making your own festive decoration that someone special will hold dear for years to come. Join a class or workshop with these crafting experts in the Tri-Cities area.

Offer expires 1/15/24

Happy Holidays

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HOLIDAY SEASON DECEMBER 2023

9

editor’s

CHOICE

Shop Find the perfect gift close to home

By Kelley White | Photos courtesy of House of 423, Tinker Belz Art and Winding Deer Path

W

ith each new holiday season, finding the perfect gift for a loved one seems to grow more difficult. Let me help you spark some inspiration with these local picks around town!

SEASON DECEMBER 2023 10 HOLIDAY

l HOUSE OF 423 219 W. State St., Geneva (*New Location) 630-423-1664 houseof423.com

STATE STREET JEWELERS 230 W. State St., Geneva 630-232-2085 statestreetjewelers.com

l WINDING DEER PATH 316 Franklin St., Geneva 630-618-7608 windingdeerpath.com

With a new location in Geneva, House of 423 is quickly establishing itself as a premier boutique for women’s apparel. Owner Sarah Whitt has an expert eye for dressing her customers and helping them choose pieces that will work best with their personal preferences and unique styles. Her new House of 423 clothing line is full of closet staples and luxurious fabrics. I especially love her new cashmere sweaters and gold-filled jewelry pieces!

Always recognized for their high quality and wonderful reputation in Geneva, State Street Jewelers is a one-stop shop for anyone special in your life. From shining gemstones to gold chains, delicate creations, wedding bands, bracelets and so much more, there is a piece for any occasion or celebration. I especially adore their selection of gemstone fashion rings. Jewelry is never a bad idea!

This shop is a treasure trove for artisanal, unique and one-of-a-kind wares. I especially love the vibrance of their adorable gnome art. They’ve been open since 2019 with nothing but exponential growth in their ability to spotlight different local artisans and handcrafted constructions. Many of their pieces are celebrations of nature and perfectly compliment any style of home décor.

l TINKER BELZ ART 227 S. 3rd St., Geneva 331-203-5162 tinkerbelzart.com

TREND + RELIC 1501 Indiana Ave., St. Charles 630-803-5253 trendandrelic.com

Glass has its own kind of magic and at Tinker Belz Art, you’ll find sparkling, unique glass creations to adorn your home or gift to someone special. Check out their website for workshops, especially their simple blown glass ornament and glass icicle classes. Choose from a variety of gorgeous glass jewelry, bar glasses, garden décor and more for gifting this holiday season.

Elegant and full of stylish picks for gifts and more, Trend + Relic is for anyone with an appreciation for artistry, apparel and accessories. I think it is a wonderful option for your best girlfriends, other special gals or just to treat yourself to something chic. Personally, I love their art, glassware and rustic décor – add any of these items to your gift ideas!

THE GIFT BOX 310 W. State St., Geneva 630-232-4151 genevagiftbox.com The Gift Box is an eclectic mix of textiles, jewelry, gourmet food, crystal, figurines and more. You’ll be sure to find something for any taste or preference. Maybe you’re looking for a cute Dala Horse for one of your in-laws or adorable decorative pillows and blankets?

Don’t pass by The Gift Box this holiday season!

HOLIDAY SEASON DECEMBER 2023

11

DINING OUTDOO in Winter

Stay cozy at these restaurants around Kane County

By Chris Walker Photos courtesy of Bien Trucha, Old Republic Kitchen + Bar and Preservation

SEASON DECEMBER 2023 12 HOLIDAY

ld Man Winter may be hanging around for a while during the frigid, snowy season, giving folks not much of an option other than to find comfort indoors when they want to dine or grab a drink.

Thanks to the creativity of a few local establishments, along with technological advances in heating and space heaters, fireplaces and fire pits, igloos, domes, tents and more, you can have a fun dining experience outdoors without feeling the harshness of the winter season.

They will keep you warm and cozy for the length of your stay. Once your belly is full, you’ll be ready to tackle the elements waiting to greet you once you leave, or perhaps you’ll just stay longer as you bask in the comfort of their heated outdoor dining.

ORS

*Ava purchailable for se onli ne

*Bonus gift card not available with online purchase.

Alter Brewing + Kitchen 12 S. First St., St. Charles 331-901-5949 www.alterbrewing.com

l Bien Trucha 410 W. State St., Geneva 630-232-2665 www.bientrucha.com

Guests can enjoy Alter’s first fullservice brewery and restaurant from within its comfortable heated globes.

Due to the construction on 1st Street and the assembly time required, the globes will not be available until sometime after Thanksgiving, making it a great place to visit in December and into 2024.

Heavily influenced Mexico City-style food that showcases ingredients at their peak can be enjoyed in the cozy environs of any of the six outdoor heated pods at Bien Trucha. The pods provide ample room for up to eight to stand up and walk around their table while enjoying music, mood lighting and a space heater.

www.goodplacestobe.com

HOLIDAY SEASON DECEMBER 2023

13

Gia Mia

Preservation l

Get your family and friends to gather in one of the igloos at Gia Mia to enjoy its farm-to-fork food concepts, including Neapolitan style woodfired pizzas, creative small plates, pasta, craft beers, cocktails and more.

You’ll be feelin’ the heat throughout the winter while having a blast outdoors thanks to the state-of-the-art heated patio at Preservation.

Rather than seeing it to believe it, you need to experience it and feel the warmth for yourself to learn why there’s no such thing as wintertime blues at Preservation. With plenty of live music, delicious drinks, creative cuisine, great conversation and, of course, heat, Jack Frost doesn’t stand a chance of nipping at your nose when you’re at Preservation.

13 N. 3rd St., Geneva 630-405-5544 | www.giamiapizzabar.com

l Old Republic 155 S. Randall Rd., Elgin 224-535-9544 | www.oldrepublicbar.com Award-winning burgers, thin and crispy pizzas, smoked meats, fresh fish, prime steaks and lip-smacking drinks are what’s in store this winter.

What’s more, is guests can enjoy a meal, drinks and company from inside its large heated enclosure.

Holiday Hostess Gifts & Baskets Available See Our New CBD Infused Oilve Oils

An Olive Oil Experience Select from over 60 different extra virgin olive oils and balsamic vinegars from all over the world.

Unique Gift Baskets Available.

Fresh fall crop of hull-less popcorn.

In store Now!

Homemade Skincare Products made with Olive Oil: Soaps ~ Lip Balms ~ Moisturizers Now Carrying Limited Selection of Spice House Products 315 James St. • Geneva, IL (630) 262-0210 www.theolivemillstores.com Holiday Hours: Mon-Fri 10am-6pm • Sat 10am-5:30pm Sun 11am-4pm

SEASON DECEMBER 2023 14 HOLIDAY

513 S. 3rd St., Geneva 630-208-1588 | www.preservationgeneva.com

The Turf Room

1033 Kilbery St., North Aurora 630-906-9300 | www.theturfroomrestaurant.com Featuring a pair of wood burning fireplaces, the patio at The Turf Roof can seat up to 90 guests who can enjoy its eclectic American fare menu that changes along with the seasons. Pizza, fish, steaks, chops, pasta, salads and 14 appetizers give guests a difficult choice when it comes down to ordering, although everything comes highly recommended.

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Season of Giving to

LOCAL NONPROFITS The holiday season is a perfect time to give back to your community. Check out these local nonprofits and be on the lookout for our Giving Back Guide, publishing at the end of December!

CASEY’S SAFE HAVEN

FOX VALLEY FOOD FOR HEALTH

Casey’s Safe Haven is a 501(c)3 nonprofit focused on a holistic rescue for equines. This sanctuary provides healing for any mules, horses, donkeys, or ponies sent on their way. Casey’s Safe Haven accepts any retiring horses from police forces, racetracks, lesson programs or pony-ride and animal control facilities. The best way to support Casey’s Safe Haven is to donate directly to the cause, shop for items on their amazon wish list, donate “In Memory Of…” or send Visa/Restaurant gift cards. All donation links can be found on their website.

Otherwise, it is equally important to volunteer your time if you are able.

The goal of Fox Valley Food for Health is to prepare nutritious and fulfilling meals for individuals who are in the midst of a health crisis or on their path to recovery. Adult volunteers are trained to help guide teen volunteers in creating delicious and organic meals they then bundle and deliver to clients’ homes via their Delivery Angels and Client Liaisons. The philosophy of Fox Valley Food for Health is rooted in preparing healthy, nutritious meals for those who need to focus on health recovery while simultaneously raising awareness, gaining support, and highlighting community compassion. Volunteer or donate to Fox Valley Food for Health by making individual contributions, purchasing a cookbook, or becoming a Healthy Hero.

8N005 Route 47 Maple Park, IL 60151 Mailing Address: P.O. Box 103, Elburn, IL 60119 815-762-1983 www.caseyssafehaven.org

SEASON DECEMBER 2023 16 HOLIDAY

Box 532, Geneva, Il 60134 630-377-0789 | www.fvffh.org

MARKLUND

164 S. Prairie Ave., Bloomingdale, IL 60108 630-529-2871 www.marklund.org Marklund is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that provides residential, therapeutic, and educational services for persons with developmental disabilities and specialized healthcare needs, from infancy through adulthood. Its mission — or promise — is to “make everyday life possible for individuals with profound disabilities.” Marklund is home to 178 residents in three different locations: Marklund Hyde Center in Geneva, Marklund Wasmond Center in Elgin, and Marklund Philip Center in Bloomindale.

The Marklund Hyde Center is a licensed Intermediate Care Facility for adults 18 and up, while the Wasmond and Philip centers are licensed Medically Complex/Skilled nursing installations for both children and adults with developmental disabilities.

Marklund Day School also operates in these three locations, providing a day program that works in tandem with local school districts to assist children on the autism spectrum and those with specialized

needs. Not to mention, thousands of volunteers and over 500 staff members serve as the backbone for all Marklund facilities. You can help support this wonderful organization in several ways such as donating, participating in the monthly giving program, or volunteering – to name a few. This year, Marklund opened Marklund’s new Nathan Education Center in Elgin, a brand-new location for adults and children with developmental disabilities and autism.

Check out Marklund’s website to learn more.

STARFISH ANIMAL RESCUE

204 Dearborn Court, Unit 101, Geneva, IL 60134 www.starfishanimalrescue.com From 2006 to present, Starfish has helped facilitate the rescue of around 4,000 dogs and focused their efforts on two high kill shelters in Kentucky that average about 200 dogs and puppies a month.

Partnering with Safe Hands Animal Rescue in Minneapolis, Starfish receives donations of vaccines for puppies that enter the shelter, a key component to animal transport. Despite the abuse and neglect

Starfish often finds these animals suffering from, this organization devotes itself to finding the best rehabilitation and homes possible, cutting down euthanasia rates to near zero percent.

FOX VALLEY HABITAT FOR HUMANITY 1300 S. Broadway Rd., Suite 101 Montgomery, IL 60538 630-859-3333 www.chicagolandhabitat.org

Fox Valley Habitat for Humanity thrives as the cornerstone of hope and community for those who seek to create a solid foundation in their lives.

Their vision is to see “A world where everyone has a decent place to live” and their mission fosters “God’s love into action.” Through a herculean effort of the community and dedicated volunteers, Fox Valley Habitat for Humanity “builds and rehabilitates simple, decent homes” for those who need it the most and can work towards home ownership. Check out their website for volunteer opportunities and items in need of donation.

HOLIDAY SEASON DECEMBER 2023

17

Christmas in Provided by the Geneva Chamber of Commerce

GENEVA

SANTA CLAUS

The young and young at heart should gaze into the night sky, ho-ho-hoping to catch a glimpse of the jolly old elf arriving in Geneva. Encouraged by the singing crowd, he will make his debut just after 6 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 1. Santa then will be escorted to his Geneva home at 10 S. Third St., where he will hear the wishes of area children until 9:30 p.m. Santa’s Winter Wonderland is designed by Hogan Design & Construction and sponsored by McNally’s Heating & Cooling. Santa continues visits through Dec. 17. Please visit genevachamber.com for details. Reservations at genevachamber.com are required to visit with Santa.

Santa Arriving for the season Friday, Dec. 1!

SANTA’S WINTER WONDERLAND HOURS

Friday, Dec. 1, Santa will begin visits at 6:40 p.m. On Saturday, Dec. 2 and Sunday, Dec. 3, Santa will see visitors from 10:30 a.m.3:30 p.m. For the rest of the season, he will visit with children Saturdays, Dec. 9 and 16, and

Sundays, Dec. 10 and 17 from 10:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

Reservations will be required to visit Santa. Please visit genevachamber.com to make a reservation.

Wave to Santa as he rides in the carriage down Third Street at 10 a.m. before visiting with children Saturdays and Sundays. Santa’s Geneva visit is sponsored by McNally’s Heating & Cooling.

HORSE-DRAWN CARRIAGE RIDES

Shodeen Homes, Shodeen Group and Gerald Subaru of North Aurora will sponsor free horsedrawn antique carriage rides through the historic district in Geneva from 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Saturdays and Sundays, Dec. 2 through Dec. 23.

The rides begin and end at the corner of South Third and James streets, travel down Third Street and back to the Courthouse.

GENEVA GIVING TREES

Christmas trees decorated by local charities will be on display throughout downtown Geneva. Visit www.GenevaHistoryMuseum.org to view a map of tree locations and to vote for trees with a monetary donation.

Trees will be on display through Jan. 1, 2024.

Make Yourself at Home!

Monthly Food Specials Heated Outdoor Patio Seating Dine In or Carry Out Seasonal Brews $4.00 Daily Handcrafted Beer Specials Try Raider‛s Root Beer (ABV 7.5%)

306 W State Street Downtown Geneva 630-208-7070 www.stockholmsbrewpub.com SM-CL2121787

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HOLIDAY SEASON DECEMBER 2023

Holiday Headquarters For The Finest Meats And Sausages ~Beef, Pork, and Lamb Roasts~ ~Award-Winning Hams and Bacon~ ~Award-Winning European Style Sausages~ ~Homemade Artisanal Charcuterie~ ~Boutique Wines and Whiskeys~ ~German and Craft Beers~

reamsmeatmarket.com

250 S Main St. Elburn, IL

Three Generations Strong

Thank you for supporting your local Sausage Maker DECEMBER

2023

19

GREENING UP your Holidays Tips to Deck your home for the season

A

ll the plants are planted. The tools are put away. The spring bulb catalogs are arriving. The garden is asleep. Winter is here.

But that doesn’t mean we can’t keep some green outside (and in!) to help us through the winter!

You can always add some evergreen color to your holidays and extend your garden season all the way until the first bulbs pop their little heads up.

Fresh-cut greens such as pine, arborvitae, cedar and spruces will last well into late winter outside. When spring starts to show up, just pull out the greens, and you are ready for pansies!

DECORATE EVERYTHING!

The entranceway is the face of your house. In just a short time you can have a beautiful entryway decorated with garland, containers, wreaths and

SEASON DECEMBER 2023 20 HOLIDAY

swags. Always measure what you are decorating.

Take photos so you can refer to them when shopping. Trust me … “eyeballing” measurements never works for anyone. Measure all around your doorway and take into account the sidelights and any slack you want in the greenery. Don’t cut your garland until you’ve hung it and like the way it looks (save the scraps – you can use those later).

You don’t have to limit yourself to just the door.

Swags can be hung on windows or lights. Window boxes can match the entryway. Garden statuary can be decorated with the same theme. Put some white lights on your arbor or specimen garden trees in your garden, and you’ll have a magical focal point in winter.

Scraps can be used inside in vases, on the mantle and more. Basically, anything that will hold some greens will be useful to decorate. I have an old pickle crock on my front steps that I load up with birch branches and greens and small twinkling lights – it’s quick and easy and looks great all winter!

Make a note to plant more plants in spring 2024

that you can cut and dry for use in your winter arrangements for winter 2024.

DECORATE THAT PLAIN GREEN WREATH!

No one says you have to just slap a red bow on a flat wreath and hang it from the front door. It’s easy to decorate plain wreaths and make them beautiful for the holidays. All you need is a glue gun (or florist wire) and some dried flowers, fruit, bows, ribbon, etc., and some imagination. It’s fine to use artificial “picks” of fruit, flowers, etc., but you can use real holly berries, dried coneflower heads, pine cones, apples, magnolia leaves, dogwood branches and more from your own garden.

Before you glue anything down, lay your accents on the wreath until you like their arrangement. It often helps to decorate like the face of a clock – sprays at 15, 30 and 45 and the larger spray and bow at 60.

You can always go back and add a sprig or two or smaller pine cones in the odd spaces if you have a larger wreath and need it to be dramatic. Use photos on social media for inspiration – it’s easy to replicate what the pros do.

TIPS WHEN BUYING AND ARRANGING GREENERY

• Purchase enough ribbon. It takes at least 2 to 3 yards of ribbon to make a bow, plus more if you are winding it through garland.

• Measure twice – cut once!

• Save extra clippings for other uses – small bud vases on your dinner table, tucked in the soap dish, arranged in a candle holder (away from flame!).

• Lights, lights, lights! Lighting really accents greenery and creates a soft glow that warms the season.

• Protect greenery if it will be in the sun with an antidesiccant spray like Wilt-Pruf – just spray your greens and let them dry before arranging in containers or hanging.

MAKE GLORIOUS PORCH POTS

You’ve got planters sitting on your front porch – now stuff them full of greens and make them look great for winter! Purchase several bundles of mixed greens such as cedar, juniper, pine and spruce to fill the container.

Take out all old and/or dead plants.

Remove about one-third of the soil (or all of it if you wish). If you remove all of the soil, you can refill your pot with loose mulch or branch scraps to help hold in the greens. We also use florists’ Oasis Foam (found at craft stores) to help hold things in place.

Start by arranging one type of greenery on the face of the clock again. Weepy, hanging greens like cedar look good around the rim of

pots. Spruce and pine tend to be more upright and full. Keep filling in the pot like the face of the clock until you have a nice base of mixed greenery. If you don’t like the way something looks, just yank it out and trim it or put it in a different spot.

(EXPERT TIP #345: Just keep stuffing ‘til it looks good – that’s what we do!)

Next, you’ll add your accents like dogwood stems, dried flowers, holly berry stems, etc. Don’t overdo it – less is more when it comes to the accents.

You don’t want it to look like a hot mess of glitter and glam.

Enjoy your garden this winter season.

Happy holidays from all of us at Wasco Nursery & Garden Center!

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!

HOLIDAY SEASON DECEMBER 2023

21

Step Inside

FABYAN WINDMILL

By Patricia MacMillan • Photos by Sandy Bressner and courtesy of Forest Preserve District of Kane County

F

ramed by dark bare branches, the structure’s expansive sails stretch into the sky while at its base lies a blanket of snow. Towering at 68 feet tall, the Fabyan Windmill is an impressive sight any time of year. But in the stillness of winter, this famed five-story construction invokes a feeling of transcendence, of traveling to a time far in the past.

Countless have stood to admire the remarkable Dutch-style windmill in Geneva’s Fabyan Forest Preserve — once the Riverbank estate of Colonel George and Nelle Fabyan. Built in the 1850s, the windmill first ground grain in present-day Lombard. In 1914, Col. Fabyan purchased the windmill and moved it to its current home, where it went from utilitarian apparatus to showpiece.

It’s a status that remains.

“It’s a popular spot for pictures, and photographers love getting unique angles of the windmill,” said Robb Cleave, volunteer coordinator for the Forest Preserve District of Kane County.

In colder months, the windmill stands sentry over a popular sledding hill. A low retaining wall is the perfect spot to perch between runs, Cleave added.

Vivien Lasken is director of the Fabyan Villa and

DECEMBER 2023 22 HISTORY

Japanese Garden for the Preservation Partners of the Fox Valley. She often hears the delighted whoops and shouts of sledders as they careen down the slope, even when posing a significant distance from the hill across the Fox River.

“It really is charming,” said Lasken, adding that this was long the intent of the place. “Col. Fabyan wanted people coming to Riverbank to feel like they were stepping into an Eden.”

And stepping into the windmill feels far from entering a grain grinding factory but rather a space meant for elegant entertaining.

“The inside of the windmill is covered with beadboard, which is intended to be very lush and decorative looking,” Lasken said. The attention to aesthetics indeed sets it apart from structures that continuously ground grain, further suggesting that Fabyan used the windmill primarily as a space to host gatherings.

However, the entrancing atmosphere that continues to this day would not be possible without considerable effort.

For nearly 20 years, head miller Mark Rivecco has looked after the unique structure, maintaining it for the forest preserve and assisting in larger efforts

to keep the windmill in excellent condition. This includes communicating and working closely with millwright Gerard Kleijnfrom the Netherlandsbased building and restoration company Verbij Hoogmade. Kleijn travels overseas periodically to provide extensive work.

“I’m an engineer by education and just a very curious person,” said Rivecco as to what drew him to the windmill in the first place. “When I saw that the forest preserve district was restoring it and that they were looking for volunteers, I thought it sounded super interesting.”

He expressed hope that other like-minded community members might also take an interest in the windmill; additional volunteer millers to help rotate the windmill’s massive sails are urgently needed. It’s a role that requires agility and strength as the upper levels of the windmill, where the structure’s gears and mechanisms are located, are particularly tight spaces, he added.

The Forest Preserve District is also seeking volunteers to serve as docents, leading tours in summer and early fall.

Those interested in volunteer roles are encouraged to call the Forest Preserve District at 630-762-2741 or email volunteer@kaneforest.com.

Home Is Where the Hearth Is

Visit our show room to see over 40 burning models on display. See a wide selection of electric, gas, and wood fireplaces designed to enhance the warmth and beauty of your home. You’ll also find a full line of mantels, fireplace screens, and hearth accessories to complete the picture.

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1255 Bowes Road, Elgin (847) 741-6464 • thehouseoffireplaces.com Monday-Friday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. | Saturday 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

DECEMBER

2023

23

GENEVA HISTORY MUSEUM

113 South Third St., Geneva 630-232-4951 | genevahistorymuseum.org

A TRIP TO THE

W GENEVA HISTORY MUSEUM

By Jamie Baker | Photos courtesy of Geneva History Museum

DECEMBER 2023 24 HISTORY

ith the formation of the Geneva Historical Society in 1943, it was the dawn of a dedicated group of community members seeking to preserve Geneva’s rich history through different means.

It began with collecting artifacts and displaying them where possible throughout the town – in storefronts and private households – before 1961 when the Museum Committee was established.

The Museum Committee fundraised to construct a building to house artifacts and history, and it was dubbed the Geneva History Museum, originally in Wheeler Park. When the museum was moved to Geneva’s historical district, it was reconstructed to accommodate storage areas, a meeting room, a research room and two exhibition galleries.

In June of 2022, the Geneva History Museum was awarded national accreditation from the American Alliance of Museums.

Exhibits on Display VIKING’S VOYAGE From now through December 23, Geneva History Museum is presenting the astonishing saga of an historic replica of the ancient Gokstad, a Viking ship. The nine-foot-tall dragon head and tail of the ship, named Freya, will be on display.

GENEVA’S STORY Geneva History Museum’s main gallery is “Geneva’s Story,” an evolving display featuring different stories from around the town and specific artifacts.

MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS AND BENEFITS OF SUPPORT Since the Geneva History Museum runs purely on donations and zero public funding, becoming a member of the museum is not only beneficial for the

organization, but is also the best way to satisfy any history buff who loves the museum. Member ship benefits include free admission to exhibitions, discount on rates for events, research services and programs, an invite to the Annual Member Celebration, a discount in the giftshop, exclusive access to the Member webpage and free admission to Brown Bag Programming, amongst others.

ONLINE STORE Even when you can’t make it into the museum, you can enjoy pieces of history and take them home with you. Visit their online store and peruse a curated selection of their Archival images to find a meaningful piece of artwork to hang around your home. And don’t forget to donate when you can to keep this beloved museum running.

t pany tha are com w ft g o in s m g a in days of g as a gam ftware w rience the early o S in u g e Pen Exp Geneva. exhibit. started in Geneva’s Story the through

HISTORY DECEMBER 2023

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n SUBURBAN SUPERDAD n

Lessons in the

Leaves

How a season’s end teaches us to appreciate time

ou might call it an idle musing.

As I recall, it began as a random thought generated from spending a bit too long staring out the dining room window at the neighbors’ fall foliage while enjoying a hot beverage on a less than spectacular late October day.

While that day would best be described as dreary, the blaze of red and yellow from those maple trees lit up the gloom, locking the gaze on the paint splatterlike droppings from the limbs, fluttering down to a similarly branded carpet that had long ago covered the green grass.

The question went something like this: Why do leaves change color in the fall?

Not my trees, mind you. They tend to remain laden with green leaves well into the fall, which almost uniformly turn brown, clinging to the branches like Damocletian cutlery, leaving me little but hopes and prayers for decent sunny days in early December to complete fall yardwork, while my neighbors are roasting chestnuts on open fires. (Not literally, but I hope you’re picking up what I’m laying down.)

In any event, best as I can tell, it’s a question that doesn’t seem to have a scientific answer.

If any scientist out there can solve this riddle, they may be known as “dendrologists.” So, if you, dear reader, happen to specialize in dendrology (which, to spare & ENTERTAINMENT DECEMBER 2023 26 FAMILY

most of you a Google search, can be loosely defined as the study of trees) or any other applicable scientific discipline, please don’t (ahem) “leave” us hanging, if you know the answer I have been unable to track down.

Now, to be clear, the question is not asking why leaves fall from deciduous trees.

Science, it seems, has an easy answer for that. To summarize: If a deciduous tree attempted to keep using its leaves to photosynthesize sunlight into energy in the winter, it would be left in a position rather similar to that of a suburban teenager in shorts and a hoodie waiting for the school bus on a sub zero morning in January.

As a bonus, as I understand it, the fallen leaves also help to insulate the ground and fertilize the ground around a tree, while performing the vital evolutionary function of smothering out potential competitors.

The question also is not: How do leaves change color?

Again, Google science to the rescue. As trees prepare for their long winter’s nap, the leaves lose chlorophyll – the substance that fuels photosynthesis and gives leaves their verdant hues – exposing the alternative yellow, red, and orangeish pigments otherwise smothered by the green summertime blanket.

(Google research further tells me warm sunny fall days can also fuel further chemical reactions that only enhance the effect.)

But none of those explanations actually touch the question: Why do leaves change color?

In animals, we know color schemes can aid in attracting mates or providing camouflage from predators or other definite perks. In flowers, science tells us varying and brilliant shades and patterns can help attract bees and other pollinators, which, again, prove vital to the flowers’ survival. (Reproduction, for the win.)

But dying leaves? With different colors?

While I can’t tell you why they fall, in my mind, they have come to take on the role of an attention-grabbing and reassuring early warning system.

Some time ago, it became apparent that my lifespan has reached its halfway marker – if I am fortunate. You might compare it to that moment, in late summer, while the days are still warm and sunny, when you see the first brown leaves fluttering in the breeze, or notice the corn stalks in the field beginning to turn brown.

Experience tells you what is about to happen. And there’s nothing for it, really, as one way or another, the increasingly chilling winds from the cyclone of life will carry us all to our end.

But this isn’t about some macabre resignation. Rather, it’s a realization, and for me, an inspiration.

Seeing the leaves change color stands as reminder that, even as the end draws on, a tree’s final moments

can be more brilliant than any that have come before.

Similarly, while we could be like the trees in my yard, clinging vainly to a waning former state of existence that cannot be revived before simply petering out and leaving a mess, perhaps the next few decades for me and my generation can be bright, as our lives paint a fiery tableau across the horizon, to, in turn, inspire our children to appreciate the beauty of life in the time we have been given.

Even when we know that mind-boggling beauty will likely leave us with a wind-blown mess to tidy up, some cold December morning.

n Jonathan Bilyk writes about the triumphs and travails of being a modern-day 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.)

Itsy Bitsy Playtime Tuesdays & Thursdays Ages 5 through March 28 10-11:30am

December’s Cutest Pet Contest

begins December 7th. Enter your pet’s photo for a chance to win!

& under

Great opportunity for parents and little ones to play and exercise just before lunch and naptime. Play items include hula hoops, sport balls and an imagination playground.

$2 per person Advance registration required.

Held in the Sportsplex Activity Room.

Purchase tickets: stcsportsplex.org/playtime 1400 Foundry Street • St. Charles, IL 60174 630-513-4388 • stcsportsplex.org

FAMILY & ENTERTAINMENT DECEMBER 2023

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Grab a This holiday season, give yourself and loved ones the gift of reading!

Here are two recommendations for your December reading list, courtesy of the librarians at Geneva Public Library.

 FOR ADULTS: “The Snow Child” by by Eowyn Ivey

This book is a gorgeous reimagining of a Russian fairy tale, blending aspects of magical realism with the stark landscape of 1920s Alaska. Jack and Mabel are drifting apart as they work together to survive in the brutal Alaskan wilderness.

As homesteaders in the 1920s, they face daily challenges, with little opportunity for levity. When they take a moment to joyfully create a child out of snow, they are saddened to discover that it is gone the next morning. Their sadness is shortlived, because soon they discover Faina, a young blonde girl, running through the woods with no family of her own. She seems to have appeared miraculously, just in their moment of need. Over time, Jack and Mabel grow to love Faina as their own, but soon discover that nothing is what it seems. Beautifully crafted, this book blends the ethereal nature of fairy tales with the feeling of falling snow to create a story that embodies the spirit of winter. Fans of magical realism and reimagined fairy tales will delight in this enchanting tale.

– Rebekah Noggle, librarian

 FOR KIDS (GRADES 4-6): “Winterhouse” by Ben Guterson

Elizabeth Somers is an 11-year-old orphan who loves puzzles and a good mystery. Just before the holidays, Elizabeth is locked out of her aunt and uncle’s home, but she is magically transported to Winterhouse. While exploring the mysterious hotel, Elizabeth discovers a unique book containing many intriguing secrets and a new friend named Freddy. She also stumbles upon a mystery: who are the strange hotel guests, and what are they hiding in that forbidden trunk? What new things will Elizabeth learn about her family history?

Along the way, Elizabeth will discover a community of people that enrich her life in wonderful new ways. Full of entertaining puzzles and copious literary references, this book is a charming escape into a wintery hotel wonderland.

This book is perfect for fans of “The Mysterious Benedict Society” and “Escape from Mr. Lemoncello’s Library.” It is sure to entertain on a cold winter’s day.

– Lauren Maxwell, librarian

& ENTERTAINMENT DECEMBER 2023 28 FAMILY

DECEMBER

2023

29

Artist OF THE MONTH

Leah Holmer 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.

1.

s a licensed art therapist and artist, Leah Holmer’s medium is centralized around functional wheel thrown pottery. Holmer is a graduate of Millikin University and became an official Clay Maker in 2017 at Water Street Studios.

“When I joined the WSS Clay Lab, I originally wanted to use my time to dust the rust off my wheel throwing skills that I developed in college,” says Holmer. “Then and now, wheel throwing has always been a mindful and therapeutic practice for me.

Historically, in both my abstract 2D and 3D work, I have always focused on the beauty of organic lines, texture, layers and color found in nature.” Now, Holmer works to create layered pieces that reflect organic compositions and landscapes through manipulating glazes to mirror their textures.

After Holmer was gifted a membership to Water Steet Studios by her sister-in-law and spent more quality time in Batavia, Holmer and her husband realized they wanted to live in and be part of the community. “Living in the suburbs, it’s difficult to find a ceramic studio that was close enough to fully utilize [and] having WSS right here has been fantastic to not only exercise my practice, but to be linked to such a wide variety of artists,” she says. “I find a lot of gratitude in how open, supportive and approachable WSS is and how Batavia continues to welcome art and the creative community.”

In 2023, Holmer has been proud of the work she has produced and excited about successfully utilizing the glazes she uses. “It has really excited me this year that I’m having encouraging and predictable outcomes with the glazes I use,” she says. “What you decide and brush on your bisqueware can often not come out of the kiln as you hoped it to. It’s confidence building and fun to see pieces turn out as you intended and definitely motivates me to keep improving.”

In the community and outside of Water Street, Holmer believes art is an essential part of the world. “Art plays a beautiful and important role in the community,” she says. “I believe it is necessary to share art, skill and ideas to encourage creativity, but also to help generate creative thought in all aspects of a community. As an artist and art therapist I understand fundamentally how art and creativity helps promote more than just a product. As a form of expression and wellbeing, having art in the community to witness and be a part of can generate the truest form of support and connection. We live in difficult times and having outlets for expression is a wonderful tool for all to have access to; as a way to cope, learn and explore.”

& ENTERTAINMENT DECEMBER 2023 30 FAMILY

2.

About the Artist Licensed art therapist and artist Leah Holmer uses pottery and clay to convey the beauty and textures of the natural world. She has been a resident artist with Water Street Studios since 2017.

3.

4.

DETAILS OF Leah Holmer’s WORK: u Mountain Sound: Ceramic mug

w Water Ways: Ceramic bowls

v Stone Flow: Ceramic mug

x Jupiter: Ceramic mugs

For more information on the artist of the month, head to waterstreetstudios.org or the organization’s social media pages.

FAMILY & ENTERTAINMENT DECEMBER 2023

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FIRST WATCH 1702 Commons Dr., Geneva 331-265-3509 www.firstwatch.com

IN TOWN DECEMBER 2023 32 NEW

FIRST WATCH COMES TO GENEVA

BY DIANE KRIEGER SPIVAK | PHOTOS COURTESY OF FIRST WATCH

W

hen First Watch launched in California in 1983, the breakfast/brunch/lunch concept was a relatively new one. So was the made-to-order concept of preparing food using no microwaves, heat lamps or deep fryers — just fresh food, freshly prepared.

Now, more than 500 locations later, there’s a First Watch in Geneva, the fifth and latest in the Chicagoland area, which opened its doors Aug. 28.

“It’s not your grandpa’s breakfast place,” says General Manager Nichole Thomson. It is a new twist with an elevated approach to traditional breakfast, brunch and lunch offerings. Think French toast, but not just any French toast. “Our Floridian French toast has strawberries, bananas and kiwis, with a berry compote on the side,” says Thomson.

Think double protein Steak and Bacon Breakfast Burrito or a massive Sunny Seoul Hash, a mouth-watering dish with shaved seared pork tossed with freshly seasoned potatoes, diced red bell peppers, kimchi, Cheddar and Monterey Jack, then topped with two cage-free eggs cooked any style, scallions, sesame seeds and gochujang aioli.

“We often incorporate flavors that are inspired by global cuisine,” says Hunter Carlson, public relations manager for First Watch’s corporate office, based in Bradenton, Florida.“We offer elevated takes on breakfast classics, everything from avocado toast to million dollar bacon, which has a drizzle of maple syrup and cayenne pepper to give some sizzle to your day.” Other favorites include cinnamon chip pancakes, a seasonal holiday staple for 10 years. First Watch offers five seasonal menus, including its holiday menu, which lasts through Jan. 7, followed by its kickstart menu.

The venue also acts as a community gathering place, says Carlson, who notes that the brunch occasion is rising in popularity. “Brunch is a buzzword for those everyday moments and celebrations. We thought Geneva was a great place to kickstart that and continue that momentum.”

One of the chain’s larger locations, Geneva First Watch seats 180. “Our restaurant has a beautiful patio and an indoor/outdoor bar for sipping coffees and fresh juices of choice,” says Thomson, who notes that the interior resembles an urban farm setting, “bringing in the rustic feel of a farmhouse, but with the modern elements of an urban loft.”

Speaking of juice, “The first thing after we turn on the lights in the morning is juice our fruits and vegetables,” says Carlson. “We also offer a signature cocktail menu throughout the day, featuring fresh ingredients.”

Something else that makes First Watch unique is its coffee program Project Sunrise. “We partner with women farmers throughout South America who have been displaced by challenging circumstances, maybe warfare, maybe abusive relationships, who came together on these farms to grow coffee to better their communities and their families,” says Carlson. “First Watch pays a premium on their products to make sure they can invest back in their communities. Every first watch nationwide has Project Sunrise, so every cup goes back to a good cause.”

What else makes First Watch different? “Really it’s our hours,” says Carlson. First Watch hours have been 7 am to 2:30 pm for 40 years.

“We greet the sunrise and close before sunset. It gives our team the opportunity to be with their families. It builds a better quality of life, and serving that one shift with one team, it also builds camaraderie.”

NEW IN TOWN DECEMBER 2023

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Financial tools to help you make a difference through donations

’Tis the Season of

GIVING W

ith Thanksgiving leftovers still in the fridge and fresh holiday decorations ramping up cheer in your neighborhood, it’s the time of year when it is hard not to feel more festive and grateful than usual. Whether you are motivated to contribute to a worthy charitable cause or thinking about helping family, let’s take a brief look at some financial instruments you may want to consider to help you make a difference.

n DIRECT GIFTING TO CHARITIES: Philanthropy is an important aspect of generational wealth transfer because it can allow you to earn income tax deductions and transfer money out of your estate to avoid additional estate taxes. Although there are many strategies for philanthropic giving, the most common is through direct gifts. Even though this method of giving may seem straightforward, there are options for how you can choose to give and benefits to

each. Whether it’s through cash, securities, real estate or other assets, you can provide for a cause and receive tax benefits through direct gifts to charity.

n PRIVATE FOUNDATIONS: For families interested in donating a considerable amount of wealth, setting up a private foundation may be a viable option. Private foundations are completely tax-exempt, although they can only grant up to a 30% income tax

exemption rather than the 50% granted by direct donation. Private foundations are typically managed by a board consisting of family members and financial advisors who define charitable goals and manage donations. They allow this board to act as intermediaries between the donor and the chosen charity. Private foundations provide a unique way for families to come together for philanthropy because they allow relatives to be named to the board of directors.

Donors are urged to consult their attorneys, accountants or tax advisors with respect to questions relating to the deductibility of various types of contributions to a Donor-Advised Fund for federal and state tax purposes. To learn more about the potential risks and benefits of Donor Advised Funds, please contact us. This material is intended for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal or tax advice and is not intended to replace the advice of a qualified attorney, tax advisor, or plan provider. The information has been obtained from sources considered to be reliable, but we do not guarantee that the foregoing material is accurate or complete. Any opinions are those of Tom McCartney and not necessarily those of Raymond James. Expressions of opinion are as of this date and are subject to change without notice. Raymond James is not responsible for the content of any website or the collection or use of information regarding any website’s users and/or members. & CIVIC DECEMBER 2023 34 BUSINES

n DONOR ADVISED FUNDS: Donor Advised Funds (DAF) are designed to allow you to grow your donation to charity through investment.

Donors, who can be individuals or groups, take donations and have a sponsor organization invest them.

Although these sponsors charge fees for the creation and management of DAFs, the investment returns they produce help build the value of the fund and can generate more money for charity than a simple gift.

In addition, DAFs have no minimum distribution requirements. In terms of generational wealth transfer, DAFs can be especially significant because they allow the donor to choose a successor adviser to continue the gifting tradition within the family.

While DAFs do have many tax benefits that private foundations do not, they also allow the donor less control.

You should consider that the official controller of the DAF is the sponsor, who retains the right to disregard a donor’s choices if he or she deems a recipient charity to be unqualified. n CUSTODIAL ACCOUNTS: Anyone can open a custodial account for anyone else under the age of 18 years. These are commonly known as UTMA Accounts (Uniform Transfers to Minors Act). The person who opens the account must name a custodian (which can be him or herself) to manage the account with a fiduciary duty to the beneficiary. While the custodian controls the account and manages the investments, anyone can donate to it and there is no limit to how much can be contributed.

The beneficiary owns the assets immediately but cannot access them until he or she reaches the age of majority, which varies by state from age 18 to 21 years. The custodian is allowed to withdraw funds from the account before the beneficiary reaches the age of majority, but only if those funds are used for the benefit of the child (for instance, for a new laptop or summer camp fees).

While some people see the flexibility of a custodial account as a benefit, others see it as a drawback. If you donate to a custodial account so your child can go to college and then he or she decides not to, you have no say in how the money is spent.

The beneficiary could squander the money at a casino and you would not have any legal authority to keep him or her from doing otherwise, despite contributing the money in the first place. Another potential drawback is the effect of the funds on the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). If the sole purpose of this account is for future college expenses, you may want to talk with your financial adviser about other options. n KEEPING IT SIMPLE: These are quick overviews of common vehicles used for clients seeking to make an impact while leaving a personal legacy. When seeking to maximize the impact of your personal giving, work with both your financial and tax advisers so you can make smart decisions and leverage your impact.

You are also welcome to call our team – we are committed to helping clients assure their legacy.

Tom McCartney is the Founding Principal of My Advisor & Planner and a Wealth Manager, RJFS. Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC. Investment advisory services are offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. My Advisor & Planner is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services.

Tom and his team are located at 107 S. 2nd St., Geneva, IL 60134 and can be reached at info@mapyourfuture.net, at 630-457-4068, or you can visit them at www.mapyourfuture.net.

MY ADVISOR & PLANNER helping assure lifestyle & legacy

Independent, confidential, private wealth management provided by industry veterans who focus on private business owners and executives, their families, and their key employees.

Our services include: • Investment Management • Life and Long-Term Care Insurance for Business and Estate Planning • Retirement Plans for Privately Owned Businesses

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630.457.4068

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info@mapyourfuture.net 107 S. 2nd Street Geneva, IL 60134 MapYourFuture.net

Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRNSIPC. Investment Advisory services offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. My Advisor and Planner is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services.

BUSINESS & CIVIC DECEMBER 2023

35

Happy Holidays!

Mention this AD & Celebrate the season with a tax-free shopping spree from December 11th to 24th.

230 W. State St. | Geneva, IL | 630.232.2085