SEPTEMBER 2022 DINEWINE& BOTH NEW AND CLASSIC SPOTS FOR DATE NIGHT, FAMILY MEALS AND MORE | PAGE 8 FLOWERPOWER Make your next dish bloom with ediblePageflowers12 TEA TIME The Irie nutritionalcelebratesCupthevalueof tea Page 18 LIVINGDREAMTHE A conversation with the director of the Paramount Theatre’s newest show Page 28
AUGUST 31 - OCTOBER 16 NOMINATED FOR 13 TONY AWARDS, INCLUDING BEST MUSICAL! DOWNTOWN AURORA tickets 630.896.6666 or PARAMOUNTAURORA.COM STARTTICKETSAT$28 BROADWAY SERIES SPONSORS:SHOW SPONSOR:
Bacon Wrapped Filet Mignons • Boneless Ribeye • Prime Rib Bone-In Strip Steak • N.Y. Strip • Porterhouse We dry age choice & prime cuts of American Beef and cut them to your specs! Homemade Italian or Polish Sausage • Brats • Aged Tender Steaks • BBQ Ribs • Jumbo Chops Signature Burgers for the Grill (12oz. each) Tuscan • Blue Cheese • Bacon-Onion Cheddar • Jalapeno Jack Gourmet Sliders A Summer Favorite! 20 Different Fresh Salads Daily and Our Own Homemade Potato Salad. What’s a party without Josef’s potato salad? Featuring a full line of Boars Head Luncheon Meats 630-262-1878 • www.josefsmeats.com • Engstrom Plaza • 716 West State St., Geneva (Entrance on 7th Street) CUSTOM CATERING FOR ALL YOUR PARTY NEEDS Have You Met the “Godfather”? Try our new “Godfather” Sausage and “Godfather” Burgers. Homemade Sausage with 3 cheeses, basil, parsley & hot giardiniera The Cowboy Burger The Ultimate Tasting Burger Ever Created Made with Prime Brisket & California Prime Tri-Tip • Your Local Butcher • OPEN Tues-Sat: 10 AM - 5 PM Sun: 10 AM - 2 PM NeverSummerEndswithourCOOKOUTSPECIALTIES!
NOTE on the StolpCOVERIslandSocial’schicken three ways: "seared, confit and braised with leek puree and fregola," according to the restaurant. Read more on P. 8. Photo by Huge Galdones/ Galdones Photography, provided by Stolp Island Social. Next month: Level up your front porch and your furniture with our October homes issue!
Thank you, as always, for reading!
I’m proud to bring you this September food & spirits issue, where you’ll meet the faces behind up-and-coming restaurants like The Water Bar, Mirus and more (P. 14 and 21, respectively). While you’re wining and dining locally, notice the beautiful murals placed around St. Charles; on P. 24 is a conversation with artist Steffi Lynn, who designed several of them. September is a busy month for festivals and outdoor events in Kane County, so don’t forget our calendar on P. 34. As you read these pages, I hope you take a moment to consider how many wonderful restaurants, breweries and more are available right in our neighborhood. Don’t forget to support local as much as you can!
Published by Shaw Media 7717 S. Route 31, Crystal Lake, IL 60014 PUBLISHER Kane County Chronicle & Northwest Herald Laura lshaw@shawmedia.com630-709-4497Shaw EDITOR Hannah hhoffmeister@shawmedia.com630-427-6263Hoffmeister DESIGNER Allison alaporta@shawmedia.com630-427-6260LaPorta LOCAL SALES MANAGER Kane County Chronicle & Niche jcornell@shawmedia.comJaclynPublishingCornell630-845-5234 CORRESPONDENTS Jonathan Bilyk, Kevin Druley, Patti MacMillan, Katie McCall, Vicki Martinka Petersen, Melissa Rubalcaba Riske, Louise Treeny 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 subscriptions@shawmedia.com.at Editorʼs
While there’s nothing wrong with dining by yourself — it’s pleasant in the right setting, even more so with a book in tow — being able to discuss dishes and cocktails with a friend or family member just completely enriches the experience.
Tahini. Saffron. Pear on pizza. Pho. Chocolate-raspberry latte. Burmese noodles. Paella. Off the top of my head, these are some of the new ingredients and dishes I’ve tried since we last featured food & spirits as the main course of the magazine. Trying something for the first time is one of my favorite parts of dining somewhere different, although I’m also a fan of restaurants with creatively written menus and great dessert options. What stands out to Theyou?last few years in particular have shown me how much cooking and eating are influenced by the people around you. In the last year, I’ve gone from living by myself to living with my fiance; that alone has made grocery shopping, cooking and even eating leftovers so much more enjoyable!
Hannah Hoffmeister, Editor
2022SEPTEMBER4
M O C T O B E R 1 & 2 L E A R N M O R E : C C C L I F E .O R G / I N S P I R I N G L E A R N M O R E & WAT C H L I V E AT C C C L I F E . O R G
What ʼs INSIDE FOOD SPIRITS& 8 NEW RESTAURANTS ON THE BLOCK 8 new and soon-to-open restaurants — add these to your fall bucket list 11 FANTASTIC LOCAL FLAVORS Chime and Stave’s new menu emphasizes Mediterranean flavors with homegrown ingredients 12 FLOWER POWER Katie McCall on making your next dish bloom 14 TREATSMOUTHWATERING Vegan cafe The Water Bar generates a buzz, prepares to launch second location in Tri-Cities 16 IT TAKES A VILLAGE Family and strong staff lead to the legacy of the Karas Group, which runs The Village Squire, Alexanders Cafe, Rookies and Old Republic Kitchen & Bar 18 TEA TIME The Irie Cup celebrates family time and the nutritional value of tea 21 AT MIRUS, PREPARE TO SHARE Small plates with global flavors make for a delicious, unmatched meal in the Tri-Cities 22 EAT HEALTHY, EVEN WHEN YOU’RE OUT Digestive expert Dr. Tarun Mullick goes Greek at The Village Squire ART & FASHION 24 ART FOR THE HEART St. Charles outdoor murals infuse downtown with color and inspiration 28 LIVING THE DREAM A conversation with the director of the Paramount Theatre’s “Dreamgirls” — plus the building’s remarkable history 30 ARTIST OF THE MONTH See Carly Palmer’s hand-cut collages and abstract art HOME & LIFESTYLE 32 THROWING SHADE Wasco Nursery on great trees to add shade to your yard OUT & ABOUT 34 CALENDAR From festivals to trolley tours, here’s what’s happening in Kane County 36 SEED BY SEED Park District works to rebuild the land at Ferson Creek Fen BUSINESS & CIVIC 38 CASH FOR COLLEGE Tom McCartney on how to incorporate saving for higher education into your goals FAMILY IN FOCUS 40 HAVING A BALL THIS SUMMER Lucille Ball, that is, as Superdad’s family discovers “I Love Lucy” 42 LIFELONG LEARNERS Fox Valley volunteers and students collaborate on English skills 2022SEPTEMBER6
Wemakeover 100varieties ofSmoked Meatsand Sausages www.ReamsMeatMarket.com SM-CL2006295 Homemade Lunchmeats • pREAMium Ham • Roast Beef • Smoked Turkey • Bolognas • Hard Salamis • Wisconsin Deli Cheeses • Fresh Breads A GREAT OLD FASHIONED FULL SERVICE MEAT MARKET Easy Dinner Ideas throughout the whole store! • Stuffed Chicken Breasts and Mushrooms • Seasoned Pork Chops • Smoked Brisket and Pulled Pork • Homemade Sides, Dips, and Salads
Petersen | Photos provided
NewTHEONBLOCKRestaurants SEPTEMBER 20228 FOOD & SPIRITS
8 NEW AND SOON-TO-OPEN RESTAURANTS — ADD THESE TO YOUR FALL BUCKET LIST By
A s the local dining scene continues to evolve, there always seems to be a new restaurant to try on date night or a meetup with friends. From places to grab a microbrew or glass of wine for happy hour to unique culinary delights sure to pique your taste buds, here’s a look at some of the newest eateries opening in Kane County. STOLP ISLAND SOCIAL 5 E. Galena Blvd., Aurora It’swww.stolpislandsocial.com630-340-4980fittingbeingneighborswith the Paramount Theatre; Stolp Island Social raised the curtain for its second act earlier this year when it reopened (the restaurant closed shortly after its initial opening due to the COVID-19 pandemic). The seasonal items on the menu features food sourced from local farms and ranches. The sustainably raised black Angus steaks — a menu mainstay — are served with a demi-glace and marrow-smashed potatoes. Although typically open just for dinner, Stolp Island Social also serves Sunday brunch with tasty bites like bourbon French toast and croque-monsieur. STURDY SHELTER BREWING 10 Shumway Ave., Withwww.sturdyshelterbrewing.comBataviaplansatpresstimetoopen this month, Sturdy Shelter Brewing will carry on the building’s roots of being a gathering place. Constructed in the late 1800s, the space has been home to many businesses Vicki Martinka by Stolp Island Social (Alan Shortall), Mary Humphreys and Mirus
through the years, including an opera house, movie theater and roller rink. The beers brewed on-site will feature a variety of India pale ales and lagers. Wine, cider and nonalcoholic drinks also are available.
Restaurants
BURGER AND SUSHI HOUSE 124 W. State St., Geneva Ifwww.burgerandsushihouse.com630-587-2274you’veeverbeentornbetween having sushi or burgers for dinner, the latest eatery to join Geneva’s dining scene will help solve that culinary dilemma. Set to open before winter, this new location of Burger and Sushi House (B.A.S.H.) will feature some favorites from its flagship location in Ottawa along with unique offerings. Sushi lovers will want to try the Two River roll made with shrimp tempura, avocado and cream cheese topped with crab tempura, sweet chili, B.A.S.H. sauce (spicy mayo) and unagi sauce. If you’re craving a burger, try the house specialty B.A.S.H. burger topped with bacon, American cheese, B.A.S.H. sauce and hash browns. You also can customize your burger experience by picking your protein, bun, cheese and toppings.
You can bring your own food, purchase a snack or stop by a visiting food truck. In addition to setting the scene for social gatherings, Sturdy Shelter Brewing also plans to partner with community groups for events.
Thewww.mirusbatavia.com630-326-9669Latinword“mirus”means
SEPTEMBER 2022 9FOOD & SPIRITS
KEEP YOUR EYES OUT FOR THIS RESTAURANT, SET TO OPEN LATE THIS YEAR!
wonderful, marvelous, amazing, surprising and awesome. That description sums up the offerings at this globally inspired small plates restaurant, which opened this summer in downtown Batavia. The “Balls of the World” menu section, for example, features the meatball imagined in unique ways such as the Black Currant Cocktail Meatballs — “beef meatballs with basil tarragon, caramelized onions and garlic tossed with a sweet and spicy black currant and sambal olek sauce,” according to the online menu. Other unique culinary treats include the Moroccan spiced lamb lollipops, brick oven octopus and “This Week’s Wonder Salad,” featuring an evolving mix of seasonal greens, artisan cheese, nuts and preserves.
MIRUS 15 E. Wilson St., Batavia
306 W State StreetDowntown Geneva630-208-7070www.stockholmsbrewpub.com Monthly Food Specials Outdoor Patio Seating Seasonal Brews $4.00 Daily Handcrafted Beer Specials Try Raider‛s Root Beer (ABV 7.5%) Voted Best Tavern in 2022 Kane County Chronicle’s Readers’ Choice Awards UP NORTH WINE TASTING ROOM 9 N. Second St., Geneva Ifwww.upnorthwinegeneva.com630-345-6833atriptonorthernMichiganisn’t in your future, you can still get a taste of its wine scene much closer to home. Up North Wine Tasting Room, which opened earlier this year, features wine from 10 wineries in northern Michigan including 45 North, Black Star Farms and Bluestone Vineyards. Be sure to check the website for upcoming events with these Michigan wineries. In addition to wine, you can order beer, cider and nonalcoholic drinks. Whatever you’re drinking, you can pair your beverage with a tasty snack mix, cheese spread, summer sausage or sweet treat! CHEC K OUT THESE OTHER NEW ADDITIONS TO THE TRI-CITIES’ DINING SCENE! Mochinut (2704 E. Main St., St. Charles): Among other offerings, you’ll find milk tea and mochi donuts, a Hawaiian-inspired dessert known for its “unique shape and wonderful texture,” according to its Facebook page. Egg House Campton Hills (40W160 Campton Crossing Drive, St. Charles): This brunch spot has a sister location in Lombard. You’ll find both sweet and savory breakfast options, ranging from eggs Benedict to pancakes to wraps. Crumbl Cookies (315 Randall Road, South Elgin): Dig into a decadent cookie at this social media phenomenon’s Kane County location. A weekly rotating menu guarantees you’ll always find something new. SEPTEMBER 202210 FOOD & SPIRITS
“We try to buy as much as we can from local farmers,” Sanchez says, mentioning Rustic Road Farm and the Batavia Farmers Market as two such sources. The restaurant also has its own herb garden.
In terms of the environment, the space has rebranded to be more like a restaurant venue and less like a bar. Sanchez prioritizes seasonal flavors at an affordable price point, giving everyone a chance to partake in a memorable, delicious meal.
LOCAL FLAVORSFantastic CHIME AND STAVE’S NEW MENU EMPHASIZES MEDITERRANEAN FLAVORS WITH HOMEGROWN INGREDIENTS By
Treeny | Photos provided by Chime and Stave CHIME AND STAVE 40W188 Campton Crossings Drive, Campton Hills www.chimeandstave.com630-549-6537 SEPTEMBER 2022 11FOOD & SPIRITS
Chime and Stave also offers a 50-person patio with heaters as well as a private dining space for events like birthday parties, bridal showers, retirement parties and more. It’s a quiet, relaxing atmosphere, Sanchez says. Also starting this month is live music every Friday, featuring mostly small bands or duets.
Both Sanchez and Nachreiner note how proud they are to work with a strong, dedicated team of employees. “It’s about community and our staff,” Nachreiner says, adding management is “committed to a work environment that’s conducive to growth.”
Nachreiner hopes local diners “can give us a second look,” noting her team would love “the opportunity to show them a different Chime and Stave.” A Friday night with live music would be a great place to start! Louise
A rtisan food at a reasonable price: That’s what you’ll find when you step into Chime and Stave in Campton Hills. The restaurant, which opened in 2019, has gone through a recent transformation, unveiling a brand-new menu and changes to the vibe of the interior.
The menu changes were developed under executive chef Francois Sanchez. Born in Spain with work experience in France, he has now lived and cooked in St. Charles for 30 years. He brings Mediterranean influences to the new menu, which features entrees like grilled salmon with baby bok choy, Parmesancrusted chicken and lobster ravioli. Charcuterie boards and a wide variety of flatbreads are available for appetizers, and you’ll always find a rotating special or two.
“No processed foods,” adds Carol Nachreiner, general manager. She says Sanchez runs an “all-scratch kitchen,” meaning sauces, soups — everything — is made Stayingin-house.truetoits name (chimes and staves are parts of barrels), the restaurant boasts a great selection of bourbon and wine. The wine list is “fresh and affordable,” says Nachreiner. (Pro tip: Happy hour includes wine and runs 4-6 p.m. Wednesday-Friday.) If you’re in the mood for a cocktail, she recommends the pomegranate martini or smoked Manhattan, both of which have proved very popular with guests.
A vegetable gardener for over 30 years, Bastone always dabbled in perennial flowers but only started growing cut flowers about four years ago. When she’s not tending to her land, she enjoys participating in local markets around town and hosting events and tours at the farm.
What’s more, edible flowers can be easily grown at home or foraged — it just takes a bit of research and planning.
POWERFLOWER HOW TO MAKE YOUR NEXT DISH BLOOM
PhotosCVictoriabyPhoto
“If you want to grow your own edible flowers, the most important thing is starting with good soil and high-quality seeds,” Bastone says. “You don’t want to go to a big-box garden center and just buy
We’ve all heard the saying, “You eat with your eyes first,” and as someone who loves to elevate everyday dining, this definitely carries value in my book. While a dish should certainly taste good, if it doesn’t look good, we lose an immediate connection with what’s in front of us.
By Katie McCall, local food columnist
a fresh take
I ’ve always had an affinity for beautifully plated food. Different components artfully placed, a symphony of sizes, textures and colors working in unison to lure in the eye — and belly — for another bite.
Eager to learn more, I visited Birdflower Farm in Maple Park, owned and operated by master gardener Christine Bastone. She and her husband have spent the past nine years living on the land, renovating their farmhouse and turning the once-overgrown property into a magical oasis.
SEPTEMBER 202212 FOOD & SPIRITS
Flowers not only have unique flavor profiles and create an automatic allure to any dish, but they’re also loaded with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
Luckily, you don’t have to be a master chef with an arsenal of foams and fancy sauces to create an eyecatching dish. The secret weapon? Edible flowers. Growing up, we picked violets and tucked them into dinner salads for fun, but it wasn’t until I started cooking professionally that I truly appreciated the multiple uses of edible flowers. Salads instantly came to life with bursts of yellow, gold and purple; lavender buds added an element of whimsy to baked goods, and cocktails garnished with sunset-hued petals beckoned trips to exotic islands.
As we sauntered through the rows of sunflowers, zinnias, dahlias, snapdragons and native wildflowers, I felt like a kid in a candy shop. She snipped a bouquet of rainbow blooms for me to take home while we chatted about the varietals and flower growing.
GROW: A simple online search for “organic edible flower seeds” will point you in the right direction. Don’t forget organic soil and compost; stay away from toxic sprays or fertilizers!
flats of flowers that may have been treated with pesticides or Bastoneherbicides.”reiterates the importance of educating oneself on the types of flowers that are safe to consume, and then purchasing the seeds (or flowers) from a reputable source.
“Just like knowing the farmer and where our produce is coming from and how it’s grown … the same should go for edible flowers,” she notes. PRO GARDENER? IT. HERE ARE A FEW TIPS GET STARTED ON YOUR EDIBLE FLOWER JOURNEY:
TO
LEARN: Common edible flowers include lavender, lilac, violet, pansy, bee balm, cornflower, nasturtium, begonia, squash blossom, borage, calendula, chamomile, chive blossom, chrysanthemum, honeysuckle, daylily, elderflower, jasmine, scented geranium, hibiscus, marigold, apple blossom, sunflower, anise hyssop and rose.
BUY: If growing seems daunting, scope out the local farmers markets to see what’s available. Grocery stores such as Whole Foods also carry edible flowers in the produce department.
FORAGE: Grab a field guide and have fun (safely) foraging for flowers in the wild. But be sure not to pick faded, dirty or discolored flowers that are near a road or in an area that animals USE: The options are endless! Edible flowers work best as garnishes when freshly picked and add natural beauty to salads, soups, pastas, open-faced toasts, pizzas, charcuterie boards, cakes and beverages. Some flowers can be used directly in the recipe, such as lavender for shortbread cookies or nasturtiums in compound butter.
DON’T SWEAT
Katie McCall, former owner of Two Wild Seeds Baking Co., is a bona fide Midwestern girl. Raised on four acres of rural property in Yorkville, she was always taught to respect nature and all of its bounty. From foraging morel mushrooms in the woods to picking wild black raspberries for homemade jam, Katie feels most at home when in nature and preparing food for others. When she’s not creating new dishes in the kitchen (and writing about them) she can be found nose-deep in cookbooks, exploring the outdoors with her family — and eating … always eating.
NOT A
WHIPPED GOAT WITHCHEESEEDIBLEFLOWERS
I recently discovered the most delicious, locally made whipped goat cheese from Rustic Road Farm in Elburn and spruced it up with unique toppings and edible flowers. Here, I used whole pansies grown at home and the petals of bee balm and cornflower from Birdflower Farm. It’s almost too pretty to eat!Ina small bowl, add the goat cheese and stir vigorously until light and airy. For an even smoother, looser version, add a tablespoon of milk and mix again. Spread the goat cheese into a shallow dish, creating a few divots with the back of a spoon. Drizzle with the olive oil and honey, followed by the spices and salt. Finally, artfully place the flowers and herbs on top and serve with your favorite crackers or bread.
Enjoy! NOW OPEN! Dine-in and Carry-out 1772 S. Randall Road, Geneva. 630-345-6840 SM-CL2005642 Store Hours Mon-Fri 10am-6pm ~ Sat 10am-5:30pm ~ Sun 11am-4pm Add Some Love to Your Cooking this Fall! See our Website for over 500 Recipes! 315 James St. • Geneva, IL • (630) 262-0210 • www.theolivemillstores.com 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. Homemade Skincare Products made with Olive Oil: Soaps ~ Lip Balms ~ Moisturizers New Flavors Available! SERVES 2-4 INGREDIENTS: • 8 ounces goat cheese, room temperature • 1 tablespoon milk (optional) • 3-4 tablespoons high-quality, extra virgin olive oil • 1 tablespoon raw honey • 1 tablespoon dukkah nut & spice blend • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes • Pinch of flaky sea salt • Assorted edible flowers • Herbs SEPTEMBER 2022 13FOOD & SPIRITS
MOUTHWATERING W
| Photos provided by
So she and her husband, Ron, set out to try new recipes, getting creative when it came to designing meals and experimenting to see what would work.
Those trials, failures and successes were all part of what would become the newest popular destination in St. Charles: The Water Bar.
“We are doing a lot of things that are different,” explains Ron Anderson.
Anderson, who is also the owner of Finetix Fitness, calls himself an entrepreneur who saw an opportunity to share their recipes for bakery treats, salads and more.
By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske Ron Anderson
Anderson says. “I’m constantly thinking there has to be a better way and we’re going to find it.”
hen Anna Anderson developed food allergies intolerancesand about five years ago, it forced her to change what, how and where she could eat.
Since opening in May, The Water Bar has generated a steady following. The marketing staff at the St. Charles Park District love walking over to grab refreshing drinks, from frozen lemonades to coffee and teas. Erika Young, public relations and marketing manager, says the bakery treats are a must.
Anderson admits there were plenty of recipes that didn’t work, or took time to develop. “We’ve had to figure out a lot,” he says.
The couple is excited to provide delicious menu options to those who, like Anna, have food sensitivities, as well as catering to those seeking healthy options.
“If I see a problem I think, ‘How can we fix this?’”
SEPTEMBER 202214 FOOD & SPIRITS
The Water Bar offers vegan, gluten-free desserts as well as smoothies, juices, coffees and teas. The couple makes all bakery items in-house and uses their own label, Sweet Jubilee.
“Every dessert is absolutely delicious, and I don’t feel VEGAN CAFE THE WATER BAR GENERATES A BUZZ, PREPARES TO LAUNCH SECOND LOCATION IN TRI-CITIES
Treats
The Water Bar’s social media presence has become one of its biggest ways to reach new customers. That includes drawing in visitors who want to see the coffee flights. Customers can order a coffee, tea or juice flight in thousands of combinations, from simple drip coffee with coconut milk to whipped drinks. There’s even an affogato coffee, which is coffee poured over vegan ice
THE WATER BAR 201 S. Third St., St. Charles www.thewaterbar.biz815-293-7720
“Thatcream.was my idea,” notes Anderson of the flights. “I was looking for something that was out of the box. It’s definitely more of an experience.”
SEPTEMBER 2022 15FOOD & SPIRITS
MOUTHWATERING Come Try Our Mexican Food Serving Breakfast All Day Long SM-CL2005938 630 W. State St., Geneva (331) www.statestdiner.com248-0646 THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT! Present this ad for 20% off your purchase! Offer expires 10/15/22 • From Major Collision Damage to Minor Dent & Scratch Repair • Paintless Repair • Lifetime Warranty SaturdayMonday-FridayHours:7:30-5:00pmCallforanappointment 630-584-5115 TriCity Auto, Inc. EST 1972 110 N. Randall Rd. St. tricityautoinc.comCharles Rt. 64 Rd.Randall * CITY AUTO TRI SM-CL2005947 CELEBRATING 50 YEARS SERVING THE FOX VALLEY AREA like you’re compromising anything. There’s this oatmeal cookie, a brownie and the lemon cake — they are all so good,” Young says. She adds that recently she had an evening appointment; instead of making a run to a fast-food restaurant, she walked over and tried the Swedish meatballs with a small side salad. Just like that, she’d discovered another menu option she loved. The couple had a prior cafe endeavor, Rejoice, which opened in January 2020 but opted to close after the interruption of pandemic stay-at-home Butorders.the couple wasn’t ready to close the door on their dream. They took time to make some changes, and in May opened The Water Bar at 201 S. Third St. in St. Charles. The second location, slated at press time to open soon, will be at 315 W. State St. in downtown Geneva. Anderson is excited for the launch of the business’ “Eatertainment,” building calendars for events such as healthy cooking classes, music, karaoke, game nights and more. The vision is to have the cafe open for those morning drinks, lunchtime meals and into the evening to be a place to meet up with friends for a pre-dinner snack or evening “Weactivity.want to make it a fun place,” Anderson says.
EXPANSION INTO BREAKFAST: ALEXANDERS CAFE
Rookies also has the most locations of any Karas restaurant. A seventh location in Crystal Lake is slated to open by the end of the year.
A SPORTS PUB: ROOKIES After graduating from Northern Illinois University, Karas and his brother-in-law bought what became Rookies. The menu — mini tacos, nachos, burgers, fish and chips, sandwiches and more — pairs well with primetime sports and a cold pale ale. Daily specials are an important part of the menu; you can often find wings, $1 burgers, $3 domestic pints and more on any given day of the week.
Shortly after Nick Smith fell in love with his wife, Eleni, he was invited to join the family business. After partnering with family to open the St. Charles location of Alexanders, Smith started a new concept: Old Republic Kitchen & Bar, which opened in 2018. The idea was to feature American food with regional specialties — “not in a zany way, just creative,” Smith says. He envisioned a melting pot of ideas under one roof: East Coast-style pizza, walleye from Minnesota, Wisconsin macaroni and cheese, and more.
“You cannot do it without,” he says. Executive chef Grant Werner has become part of the family and also keeps the menus fresh. Karas is proud of his family’s restaurants’ ability to keep up with trends and have a “boots on the ground” leadership mentality. “We’ve kept up with cutting-edge trends,” he says. “We’ve always been able to adapt.”
Just over 10 years later came Alexanders Cafe, first in Elgin and later in St. Charles. “It opened to so much fanfare,” Karas remembers. He recalls competitors stealing menus, which then was a sign of admiration, an acknowledgement you were doing something new and different.
Karas calls the patio space “the Disneyland of outdoor dining.”
The family came together to brainstorm solutions for problems presented by the early days of COVID-19. “You weren’t alone in the challenges we were facing,” Smith
‘DISNEYLAND OF OUTDOOR DINING’: OLD REPUBLIC
IT ALL COMES BACK TO FAMILY Working in a fast-paced industry with lots of family members can pose its own challenges, but it also presents an assembled team of people who support you.
Bothsays. Smith and Karas give a lot of credit to the staff, who they say are dedicated to good service. Some have been with their restaurant since Day 1, Karas notes, adding that a key to their success is good employees.
Alexanders offers both breakfast and lunch. When it opened as “the coolest Greek diner there was,” Karas says, dinner was on the menu as well.
Old Republic has been quite the hit in the Fox Valley, even more so since adding an enormous, pet-friendly patio in summer 2020. The patio doubled again in 2021 based on demand, brought on by frequent live music.
The four restaurant concepts serve dishes ranging from breakfast paninis to ribeye steak dinners. Serving casual, everyday meals, all are family-oriented and familyowned, which came in handy during the pandemic. It was “tremendous that we as a group were really able to hold on to each other,” Nick Smith, owner of Old Republic Kitchen & Bar, says.
VILLAGE SEPTEMBER 202216 FOOD & SPIRITS
THE BEGINNING: THE VILLAGE SQUIRE
The Karas restaurant legacy began in 1974 with The Village Squire in Dundee. Bob Karas’ father, Paul, opened the English pub-style restaurant with his brother, Today,George.the original, founding eatery is the flagship of the company. The brick and wood interior creates a comfortable atmosphere, and you can’t go wrong with any of the burgers, sandwiches, pizzas or pastas (and free "bobcorn," of course). Many of the dishes feature a Greek flair, including the popular gyros.
W hat started in 1974 with one restaurant and two founders has grown into a well-established family dynasty. The Karas Group is composed of Rookies, The Village Squire, Alexanders Cafe and Old Republic Kitchen & Bar. The group has 13 restaurants in the area, and a 14th (Rookies in Crystal Lake) is on the “Itway.feels good that people think highly of our restaurants,” says owner Bob Karas, whose passion for the industry has been ever-present since he started at 10 years old. “We’ve always been all about the communities we’re in.”
TAKES A VILLAGE Family and strong staff lead to the legacy of the Karas Group, which runs The Village Squire, Alexanders Cafe, Rookies and Old Republic Kitchen & Bar By Louise Treeny | Photos provided by Bob Karas THE VILLAGE SQUIRE Locations in: Crystal Lake, Dundee, McHenry, South Elgin Owners: Bob Karas, Despina Karas, George and Eleni Karavasis, George Karas, Aleko www.villagesquire.comKaras ALEXANDERS CAFE Locations in: Elgin, St. Charles Owners: Bob Karas, Aleko Karas, George Karas, Nick www.alexanderscafe.comSmith ROOKIES Locations in: Elgin, Geneva, Hoffman Estates, Huntley, Roselle, St. Charles (soon Crystal Owners:Lake)Bob Karas, John Alimissis, Elpida Gates, Despina Karas, George and Eleni Karavasis, Mike Maridis, Grant Werner (executive chef and www.rookiespub.compartner) OLD REPUBLIC KITCHEN & BAR 155 S. Randall Road, Elgin Owners: Nick and Jeff Smith SEPTEMBER 2022 17FOOD & SPIRITS
IT
TEA
SEPTEMBER 202218 FOOD & SPIRITS
thefamilycelebratesCuptimeandnutritionalvalueoftea
Time Learn more at www.theiriecup.com or on Facebook!
With bustling online sales, a presence at suburban farmers markets and offerings on restaurant menus, the Irie Cup lately has left its co-owners eager to exclaim the establishment’s titular expression. “Irie” is a common Jamaican saying that conveys “Everything is good” or that something is “good and pleasant,” the Lewises say on their website.
J
To be sure, the duo hopes customers reach inner “Irie” status upon consuming one of the company’s seven types of teas, which use locally sourced ingredients to provide herbal “Lotsnourishment.ofpeople look to drinks to provide a boost of The Irie
By Kevin Druley Photos provided by the Lewises
oe and LaShanda Lewis know their family’s preferred beverage — to a tea. Resolved to turn the uncertainty of the early stages of the pandemic into productivity, the Pingree Grove couple developed The Irie Cup, an herbal tea company.
As with many across the globe, the Lewises were forced to pivot in early 2020. Joe was furloughed from his full-time job while LaShanda elected to homeschool the couple’s three children — Erika, Samuel and Kaydence — when schools shut down. Blending past experiences with a shared passion for whole foods and balanced nutrition, the Lewises tried their hand at developing tea. It turns out their children had a thirst for knowledge beyond the home classroom. Each has proven eager to assist not just at farmers markets, but throughout the week as the family determines orders and destinations.
One need not educate the Lewises on these matters. Growing up in separate parts of Chicago, the couple both cherished their Jamaican heritage and its prevalence in their respective Thathomes.included the notion of tea as a channel for healing and recharging. LaShanda's family had a pulse on which teas best offered salve for certain ailments. For a headache, it was fever grass. For a bad cold, garlic tea proved most effective. An upset stomach typically meant a cup of ginger tea wasn’t far behind.
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“That was the big reason behind our deciding to pursue this full-time,” Joe Lewis says. “Family time, together time, is a very important thing to us. We wanted to still be able to spend that time with our children while fulfilling our duties and obligations to the Thebusiness.”Lewises regularly update their offerings and farmers market schedule online. In addition, Irie Cup teas can be found at The Graceful Ordinary in St. Charles and OpenDoor Coffee in Genoa, among others.
“There’s a lot of prep time that goes into it,” she says. “I’ve spent the last year, year and a half, studying herbalism, seeing what works and what doesn’t work.”
At Joe's childhood home, he helped channel a family garden in Mandeville, Jamaica, growing many fruits and vegetables as well as mint leaves, which were used in steeping, or pouring hot water over tea ingredients and allowing them to rest. The couple is grateful for those experiences, crediting them for helping form the foundation of the business.
energy,” LaShanda Lewis says. “What they might not realize is the nutritional and enriching value that many teas have, the wellness and nutrition they can bring.”
“We’ve been very fortunate to build such great relationships,” he says. “These places became aware of our product, reached out, learned about our story and wanted others to be able to enjoy our teas.” “Irie,” indeed.
Walk down the Preservation alley, and you'll find an unexpected oasis where rare dining experiences happen. Discover our bistro, mixology house, wine bar and more. Dozens of tables surround our 34-seat open-air bar framed by an artful pergola. A retractable roof and industrial-grade heat keep you comfortable all fall and winter. While live music plays, explore a menu of thoughtful fare, artisan cheese and meats, and creative shareables. Pair it with eclectic cocktails, craft brews and a firstclass wine list. Lunch, afternoon drinks, dinner, after-hours: It all happens here.
Obscurity Brewing and Craft Mead 113 W. NORTH ST., ELBURN 630-320-2255 | WWW.DRINKOBSCURITY.COM
Obscurity Brewing is a traditional barbeque restaurant with a 1000 pound capacity wood smoker, the second largest in Illinois. It’s located in the heart of the agriculture district of Elburn, preserving the old Farm Services Offices and Warehouse space. The love of craft beer, the passion for mead, the live music, the childhood memories of eating your favorite BBQ, and the desire to give back to the community. All these things drive the creation of our atmosphere and experience in the restaurant, brewery, and outdoor beer garden patio.
Stockholm's 306 W. STATE ST., GENEVA 630-208-7070 | WWW.STOCKHOLMSBREWPUB.COM
Out back and tucked in a nook with the neighboring building, protected by a high fence and covered with a shade sail, Stockholm’s patio is a little intimate dining gem.
Voted the Western Suburbs' best neighborhood tavern by the readers of both the Kane County Chronicle and West Suburban Living Magazine, Stockholm’s is known for its expansive menu of freshly prepared meals using only the highest quality ingredients. You can also enjoy its handcrafted beers, brewed in an Old World tradition, naturally conditioned and unfiltered, from the TriCities' oldest brewery. Preservation 513 S. THIRD ST., GENEVA 630-208-1588 | WWW.PRESERVATIONGENEVA.COM
SEPTEMBER 202220 FOOD & SPIRITS
MIRUS 15 E. Wilson St., Batavia www.mirusbatavia.com630-326-9669
PREPARE TO SHARE SEPTEMBER 2022 21FOOD & SPIRITS
By Louise Treeny
Big flavors, small plates. That’s the focus at Mirus, Batavia’s newest restaurant focused on globally inspired small plates, shareable menu items that come out of the kitchen like sushi style service.
Shaver takes the most pride in the way the staff has come together to make for one of the smoothest restaurant openings in his experience. The team is comprised of longtime restaurant veterans and a hardworking high-school age support staff. The open-front kitchen makes everyone working “on stage” to diners and it makes for an entertaining experience for everyone.
The menu has a section dedicated just to meatballs entitled “Balls of the World,” and the staff’s uniform is loosely “what you’d wear on a second date,” Shaver says. The best compliment he’s gotten so far is that this is “the weirdest restaurant in the best way.”
Small plates with global flavors make for a delicious, unmatched meal in the Tri-Cities
At Mirus,
| Photos provided by Cedric Jones
The mentality comes partially from a current trend in restaurant dining where guests enjoy sharing meals with each other. “Why share two things when you can share five?” says Ryan Shaver, general manager. Shaver and his partner, Melissa Monno, purchased Sidecar Supper Club & Beer Garden (formerly River’s Edge) in 2015. In June 2021, the two got an unexpected chance to tour an empty space in downtown Batavia. Monno and John Hamel of Pal Joey's and Bar Evolution signed the lease the following day, then opened Mirus almost exactly one year later. Both the food and service set the restaurant apart, Shaver believes. “The food is ridiculous,” he says. “Just trust Popularus.”entrees so far include ribeye bites — “three ribeye medallions with roasted shiitake and oyster mushrooms and a sweet brandy cream,” according to the online menu — prawns and polenta, eggplant stacks and the andouille flatbread, which comes with an in-house smoked pepper jam. About 70% of the menu is gluten-free or vegetarian, according to Shaver, a choice that was equal parts intentional and happenstance. The menu will continue to change — and likely grow, as head chef Rick Kaniuga wanted to start with “only” 40 of his best Increations.termsof cocktails, Shaver recommends any of the sours; the amaretto sour, or “Almond Smackaroon,” is one of the best, he says. But just because the offerings likely include ingredients you may not recognize, don’t think Mirus is pretentious.
WITH DR. TARUN MULLICK
Pictured here is the Grecian-style salmon, different from the chicken only in its main protein. Photo provided by The Village Squire
Idecided to venture out to The Village Squire in South Elgin. This venue has a wonderful indoor and outdoor setting so that you’ll enjoy the experience no matter where you want to sit. But even more amazing is the food.
To start, I got the Opaa Shrimp! This wonderful dish is jumbo shrimp sauteed in garlic butter with feta, tomato, onion and peppers. It’s even served tableside with pita, a shot of brandy and an “opaa!” cheer! Tastes great, looks like a show, but so healthy and good for the waistline. Then to be healthy and get all the taste, I ordered the Grecian-style chicken. Mmm, good.
So, for a great night out and all the Mediterranean flavor, check out The Village Squire right down the street from you. Opaa!
Dr.TarunMullickisaspecialisttrained comGastroenterologyatJohnsHopkinsandClevelandClinicinandEndoscopybasedinGeneva.Connectwithhimatwww.mullickmd.orbyphoneat630-232-2025.
SEPTEMBER 202222 FOOD & SPIRITS
A marinated chicken breast topped with feta, tomato and olive oil and broiled. Wow! What a punch of flavor. This takes me to the Greek isles of Mykonos. The flavors are lively yet light but filling in a healthy manner.
A: Cologuard is for late-stage growths. Colon cancer prevention is best done prior to late stage. That is why the guidelines is still for colonoscopies to start at 45 years old.
It is my honor and privilege to serve the community and readership of this publication. Our practice’s focus is to care for patients, to help them and tailor their care individually with current therapies.
Q: I’ve had watery diarrhea without bleeding for the past few months, and there is not much that helps. What can I do?
A: No, the guidelines for screening are the same even amid the pandemic. In fact, a lot of people have postponed their screenings or surveillance, which has resulted in more cancers and other later stage diseases. I recommend catching up with the screenings and surveillance so that you are up to date.
Dear Kristen: Yes, food intolerances to lactose, sucrose and fructose are common, so you may need to avoid those. We have tests in the office for that. The symptoms of IBS and food allergies are often similar, so testing for food allergies is reasonable. We can test for that, too. We have helped many patients diagnosed with food allergies, so it’s not all IBS. YOUR pay thousands more for care, tests, - AUTO - HOME -
WWW.DEDUCTIBLESHOP.COM IT'S
Ask the doctor WORD SCRAMBLE:
Dear Jane: Great question. Colon cancer can affect anyone, regardless of family history. Everyone over age 45 should get a colonoscopy. If you have family history you should start at age 40 or 10 to 15 years before the youngest relative with a problem. Screening helps reduce risk.
Q: Has the pandemic changed the guidelines for screening?
A: Yes, we offer telehealth. This means you can get treatment without leaving your home. We will only bring you in for necessary tests, and you can choose locations away from hospitals. It’s safer to go to smaller practices and centers away like ours. In general, it appears telehealth is here to stay for years to come. It presents an alternative. And, for those, who don’t like waits — we call you. Thus, you can continue to do whatever you need to in the meanwhile. L H S C and Endoscopy center. I had some polyps removed and that will likely prevent a cancer. The facility was wonderful and it saved me money.”
IF YOU DO BREAST CANCER SCREENING, GET COLON CANCER SCREENING. It affects men and women BOTH and is the second leading cause of cancer deaths. It is VERY important to get this screening done - colon cancer is beatable and treatable if caught early enough through colon screening.
H A E T L E L E T H O N L O S P Y C O O C A F L L ANSWERS:School,Picnic,Telehealth,Colonoscopy,Fall LOSE WEIGHT NOW! Connie, Batavia -- “Lost 44 lbs, with Dr. Mullick’s recommended system, and it stayed off.”* Jamie, Geneva -- “Lost 12 pound in my FIRST MONTH!! It really works. Call for appointment 630-232-2025 Pay LESS for your colonoscopy or endoscopy. Facility Fees are significantly lower. Cost of health care is going up. Pay less for your test. We are JCAHO certified. Met your Deductible?? Get in before year end. Save on your deductible. Pay LESS. Heartburn, Diarrhea, Constipation, Liver Disease, Pancreatitis, Abdominal Pain, Colitis, Crohns/ Ulcerative Colitis, Gallbladder, Rectal Bleeding We have quality doctors and team on staff to serve you well. Its our honor to take care of you. AMERICAN COLONOSCOPY AND ENDOSCOPY CENTER 2631 Williamsburg Ave 301. Geneva, IL. Call now for your appointment. 630-232-2025 BACK PAIN. CARPAL TUNNEL. WRIST PAIN. PAIN IN FOOT. PAIN IN LIMBS PERIPHERAL NERVE TEST Certified center & trained team. Call now for your clinic appointment and test date. 630-232-2025. PPO, Medicare, and Cash payment accepted *Results may not be typical. SAVE YOUR LIFE! TELL YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS Get colon cancer screening. Beatable, Treatable, Preventable in most situations. S. from Geneva. “I am glad I had my colonoscopy done at the American Colonoscopy
LET’S BEAT IT! 630-232-2025.
Q: Isn’t Cologuard enough?
*Some restrictions may apply. Available while supply lasts.
repairs MEDICAL
A: First, diarrhea for more than one month is chronic and something that should be assessed with your doctor. Many causes of diarrhea can be assessed with endoscopy and colonoscopy. Other tests for celiac and inflammatory bowel disease can be helpful. A diagnosis of exclusion would include irritable bowel syndrome or functional causes. There are good treatments for all of these.
HEARTBURN PATIENTS
Q: Do you offer telehealth? Many practices don’t? What do you think about that?
My doctor said it’s IBS (irritable bowel). Kristen
O O C C P I I N
VET (PETS) TELEHEALTH APPOINTMENTS PLEASE CALL 630-232-2025 SEPTEMBER 2022 23FOOD & SPIRITS
Dear Dr. Mullick, My family never had polyps or cancer. Do I really need a colonoscopy? Jane
DEDUCTIBLE! Why
PLEASE COME TO GET EVALUATED FOR PRECANCEROUS BARRETT’S; ESOPHAGEAL CANCER HAS INCREASED IN THE PAST 4 DECADES.
Dr. Mullick, I’ve got bloating and gas. Sometimes I have diarrhea or nausea after I eat. Could I have food allergies?
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forArtHeartthe SEPTEMBER 202224 ART & FASHION
SEPTEMBER 2022 25ART & FASHION
From flowers and radiant beams to a playful fox highlighting the Fox River Valley, the pieces are all on exterior walls in the following locations: YOU MADE IT! (Steffi Lynn), 311 N. Second St. YOU LOOK GOOD (Steffi Lynn), 301 W. Main St. RADIATE POSITIVITY (Steffi Lynn), 7 S. Second Ave. BLOOM IN ST. CHARLES (Alliance staff), 132 S. First St. JUST KEEP GROWING (Alliance staff), 16 N. Riverside Ave.
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Installed in April, the pieces reflect a positive, happy and fun spirit.
INSPIRATIONWITHINFUSEOUTDOORCHARLESMURALSDOWNTOWNCOLORAND
he St. Charles Business Alliance has taken the legendary adage “A picture is worth a thousand words” to the streets with this year’s “Bloom in STC,” an outdoor art installation of five murals throughout the historic Twodowntown.ofthemurals were created in-house by Alliance staff.
“Art is really important to the St. Charles community,” says Jessica Hudec, the Alliance’s marketing manager. “The murals are all very colorful and they reference positive affirmation to drive people to the community of St. Charles.”
By Diane Krieger Spivak Photos provided by St. Charles Business Alliance
The remaining three are works of New York artist Steffi Lynn, whose signature designs are attached to lots of big name brands, from Kate Spade to National Geographic to Life is Good.
Heart ST.
“We had followed Steffi Lynn for a while and really liked the colors she used in her murals,” says Hudec. “She’s famous for her ‘Have a Nice Day’ campaign. We liked her design style and she ran with it. It was great working with her.” Steffi Lynn Tsai created “You Made It,” “Radiate Positivity” and “You Look Good” specifically for the St. Charles community.
“I
“I think any project I’ve ever done for Earth Day has been really important to me,” says Tsai. Her three St. Charles murals reflect that same commitment to nature, in flowers, sun and animals, and all things uplifting. “For the ‘Radiate Positivity,’ mural I just wanted people to feel good energy. The fox mural was about St. Charles and the river and the area, and ‘You Look Good’ was just about ‘Hey, you look nice today.’ ‘Oh! Thanks for the compliment!’”
Tsai says her work’s intent is to “remind people how great our planet is. We forget to go outside and we’re surrounded by buildings. We need to take a moment to relax.”
Three are vinyl stickers, and two are on sheet metal, explains Hudec. “The reason we did that is that we do have a lot of historic buildings in St. Charles, and we want to preserve them and not damage them.” Hudec says the Alliance hopes to have the murals in place for at least a couple of years.
Steffi Lynn is best known for her murals, but has also been tagged by numerous companies to design a myriad of product lines — think Converse, Dr. Martens, Olay, Samsung, Pottery Barn and more. She even has her own makeup line at Ulta ABeauty.Texas native, she graduated from the Pratt Institute and has remained in New York. She interned at Seventeen Magazine and began freelancing while still in school.
GET A VIRTUAL LOOK AT THE MURALS WWW.STCALLIANCE.ORG/MURALS,ATORVISITINPERSON! SEPTEMBER 202226 ART & FASHION
“I just love to create,” says Tsai, whose inspiration, she says, comes mostly from everyday interactions, “and just people and day-to-day life. I think a lot of it comes from positivity in my own life. I draw from myself because somebody out there may need lifting up. Everyone is hustling and bustling all the time, especially in New York. I grew up around nature, so I’m inspired by earth, nature and flowers.”
One of Tsai’s favorites is a project she created this year for National Geographic for Earth Day. She was one of only four artists commissioned nationwide to paint their own mural. Hers was located in Brooklyn, depicting the Amazon rainforest.
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“I spent a year at Millikin but felt like I was supposed to be at NYU,” he says. “So I applied a second time and after a little bit of hard work and faith, just like the Dreams, I was able to get myself to New York City and I’ve been living there for the past 11 years.”
By Chris Walker |
hristopher Betts made his Chicago directing debut with “Dreamgirls,” which opened Aug. 31 at the Paramount Theatre. It’s a dream come true for the Chicago native, who recognizes parallels between “Dreamgirls” and his ambitions as a New York-based director, writer, producer and New York University professor. He also recently completed his master of fine arts in directing at the Yale School of Drama.
But he also didn’t give up.
A conversation with the director of the Paramount Theatre’s “Dreamgirls” — plus the building’s remarkable history
As you travel back to the turbulent times of the ’60s in “Dreamgirls,” you’ll meet three talented
Photos provided by the Paramount Theatre
“In the musical, the Dreams are actually from Chicago and we’re going to be leaning into that in the design,” he says. “They find their way up to New York to enter this talent competition at the Apollo Theater and I did the same thing. Growing up in Chicago, I was exposed to a lot of theater in the Chicagoland area, but I knew that if I really went after my dream in a big way, I just felt for me, at least, I had to get to New York. So, NYU had been my dream school for such a long time and you know, just like the Dreams, they didn’t win the talent show, and I didn’t get in.”
THIS IS A MAGAZINEINMONTHLYNEWSERIESKANECOUNTYWILLEXPLORETHEHISTORYBEHINDLOCALTRADITIONS,BUSINESSES,EVENTSANDMORE.
C
SEPTEMBER 202228 ART & FASHION
LIVING THE DREAM
By Hannah Hoffmeister
Whether those theatergoers are regulars at the legendary Paramount or seeing a show there for the first time, they’re in for a treat. The gorgeous art deco venue was designed by famed Chicago architectural firm Rapp & Rapp, who also designed The Chicago Theatre over 100 years ago. “It’s such an amazing theater,” Betts says of the Paramount. “I’m so thankful that I get to work there and get to do this show here. It’s my favorite musical, so it all came together perfectly with it being the first thing I’m directing in the Chicagoland area.”
While the show tells the story of the Dreamettes looking to break into the music scene, Betts is hopeful that staging this show at the Paramount will welcome a new audience to the theater.
“I love that it’s been here so long,” says Melissa Striedl, group sales manager. With 34 years of experience at the theater, she leads backstage tours that also incorporate history.
The Broadway Series, which started in 2011, this year includes “Dreamgirls,” “The Sound of Music,” “Into the Woods” and “School of Rock.”
FOR A BACKSTAGE TOUR AND MORE HISTORY, EMAIL MELISSAS@PARAMOUNTARTS.COM. TOURS ARE JUST $5 PER PERSON!
The Paramount closed in the 1970s for a major renovation, replacing the original murals with exact replicas and restoring the interior to its 1930s appearance. The main chandelier is original, and much of the original (smaller) lobby is original, says Striedl. The main entrance and gathering place — the Grand Gallery — was added in the early 2000s and, although slightly more modern, was designed in the art deco style of the theater. “It matches beautifully,” Striedl Innotes.its91 years, the theater has played host to a wide variety of well-known artists, comedians, vaudeville shows, movies and musicals, among them Frank Sinatra, Jay Leno, Liza Minnelli and Striedl’s favorite, violinist Itzhak Perlman. For much of its history, the space played movies and hosted shows on tour. (In a nod to its original use as a movie theater, $1 movies on Monday nights are back — no advance ticket needed.)
“There will be lots of sequins and some really fantastic singing,” Betts says. “I think we love ‘Dreamgirls’ because it’s so glamorous. We love ‘Dreamgirls’ because it sounds good and it feels good, and as someone who went to school primarily for directing actors, it’s going to be a very wellacted production. I want to make sure every moment in the show is felt deeply and honestly by our audience members.”
Q uickly approaching 100 years old, the Paramount Theatre looks much like it did when it opened in 1931.
“There are a lot of African American people excited to see this theater do this show. It is an event. It is such an iconic title and Chicago is such an eclectic arts and entertainment city,” Betts says. “I hope that doing ‘Dreamgirls’ isn’t a one-off and it really activates a new dream and a new vision for what the audience experience at the Paramount can be.” Performances are scheduled now through Oct. 16. Learn more at www.paramountaurora.com.
SEPTEMBER 2022 29ART & FASHION
FROM SINATRAFRANKTO‘DREAMGIRLS’
young Black singers in pursuit of their dream. After a car salesman signs the trio to a record deal, their lives change forever as they try to balance love and fame while enduring the highs and lows of life.
OF THE MONTH
1. 2. SEPTEMBER 202230 ART & FASHION
Her work currently focuses on playing with elements of depth psychology, surrealism and symbolism.
“I like to believe that by sharing my own process, I am holding up a mirror for others to see themselves too,” Palmer says. “There’s something powerful that starts to happen when you put your art out in ‘the wild’ for others to witness. You get to feel, hear, and see their impressions before your very eyes.”
“When I first started painting expressive abstracts, I had to wrestle with my limited knowledge of materials and technical skills. I had come from being highly proficient in my work as a longtime makeup artist and was brand-new to painting,” she notes.
CARLY PALMER
fter years of running her own business, Carly Palmer switched from one type of canvas to another. The Water Street Studios resident artist moved from professional wedding makeup — what she calls a “live canvas” — to collage work and expressive abstract painting.
Palmer’s time at Water Street Studios started as a student. Then she worked as a gallery assistant, then as an art instructor for adults and children.
“Throughout the years this sense of having a playful ‘beginner’s mind’ has pushed me to continue to expand my own identity as an artist.”
A
Starting this month, she will have studio space as a resident artist. She is interested in playing with patterns and exploring hidden meanings, she says, which has certainly influenced her collages.
Palmer finds herself growing in appreciation for art history, assemblage and poetry.
“I have a deep appreciation for repurposing, reimagining, and juxtaposing seemingly disparate objects and watching them interact,” she notes. Seen here in three examples, her collages are all created by hand-cutting from print magazines “of today and yesteryear,” she says. “There is something to be said (especially in this day and age) about engaging in tactile and analog ways.”
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.
Artist
DETAILS OF CARLY WORK:PALMER’S To purchase or learn more about these creations, visit www.carlypalmer.com www.waterstreetstudios.org/shopwaterstreet.or TIME SLIPS THROUGH MY HANDS: paper collage, 12x12, pricing on request EASY TIGER: paper collage, 12x12, pricing on request TICK TOCK: paper collage, 12x12, pricing on request SMOKE & MIRRORS: acrylic and mixed media on canvas, 12x16, pricing on request SOULFUL CONSTELLATIONS OF SELF: acrylic and mixed media on canvas, 12x16, pricing on request For more information on the artist of the month, head www.waterstreetstudios.orgtoortheorganization’ssocialmediapages.Carly Palmer is always evolving as an artist, but she’s currently working primarily in paper collage, assemblage and expressive abstracts. Learn more at www.carlypalmer.com or on Instagram @artfullycurious. 3.4. 5. SEPTEMBER 2022 31ART & FASHION
rees are one of the best investments in any landscape. Of course they provide shade, but they can also provide flowers, texture, fall color, winter interest, cover for wildlife and more. With the devastation of the tree canopy due to emerald ash borer and now the decline and death of Colorado spruce and issues with ornamental pears, we’ve learned a valuable lesson in diversification. When we replace dying species, we need to be introducing new and interesting species into our yards — different from what our neighbors have. Sometimes trees get overlooked because they don’t have the “bells & whistles” that the popular trees have. Some trees also have an “awkward teenage phase,” and you might not give them a second glance when you see them young, but they mature to beautiful specimens. (The tree world is kind of like high school…)
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THROWING Shade SEPTEMBER 202232 HOME & LIFESTYLE
‘IVORY SILK’ TREE LILAC: also a bit smaller but still a nice shade tree, creamy white fragrant flowers in summer, gold fall color, fairly fastgrowing and long-lived, no disease or bug issues, excellent replacement for pears
KENTUCKY COFFEETREE: one of those “awkward teenagers” I spoke of! Open canopy with large compound leaves, golden fall color, tough and native, gorgeous as it ages, very tolerant of poor soil conditions ELM: hybrid versions (many developed in Chicago) that grow fast and have a one-of-a-kind vase shape, tough, resistant to Dutch elm disease, excellent parkway tree, ‘Frontier’ has red fall color, all others are yellow
BLACK TUPELO: amazing red and orange fall color (puts maples to shame!), shiny leaves, native, slower growing but worth the wait GINKGO: prehistoric tree with beautiful fan-shaped leaves, stunning gold fall color, slower growth habit. Geneva has some beauties along Route 38.
Let us gro w them into the garden of your dreams. Meagan 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!
‘CRIMSON SPIRE’ OAK: new cultivar that is bred to be narrow, great for skinny spots where you need height but not width, gorgeous deep red fall color, makes excellent screening tree without losing space
Below are some unique and favorite trees that you should give a second look to if you are in the market for a shade tree or two this fall:
LONDON PLANETREE/SYCAMORE: beautiful stately tree, very large fuzzy leaves, unique “camouflage” bark, medium-fast grower TULIP TREE: a Wasco Nursery favorite, unique hand-shaped leaves, yellow/orange flowers, tall and narrow, yellow fall color, very fast grower, excellent street or yard tree If you want to mix it up a little in your yard, try one of these beauties. There is more to life than maples!
AMERICAN HORNBEAM: the smallest of this bunch but a beautiful tree for any space, compact head with bright green leaves, excellent fall color, pretty bark in winter, native to the Midwest, great mid-sized tree where you need something that has an upright, perfect shape, excellent replacement for pears
SEPTEMBER 2022 33HOME & LIFESTYLE
COPPER BEECH: unusually-colored leaves, long-lived, ‘Riversii’ has dark burgundy copper foliage, gray bark looks like “elephant knees” as it ages. There are many large specimens of copper beech in the Fox Valley — some over 100 years old!
7 8 We suggest finding some soul food to go with the soul music of Jazz Weekend, held throughout St. Charles. 9 Cheers! Festival of the Vine celebrates food, wine Geneva.communityandin 10 See six homes while on the Historic Elgin House Tour, which is celebrating 40 years this year. 5 Enjoy Labor Day with a gathering,familypicnic or barbecue! 64 14 15 Hispanic Heritage Month starts on this day. Venture to Wheaton for Cantigny Mexicanexhibit,of“Alebrijes:Park’sCreaturesaDreamWorld”completedbyartists. 16 17 Don't miss the Fox River Clean-Up Event on this day! Learn more at stcrivercorridor.org.www. 12 13 It’s totoday.thinkingpositivedayIt’sgoingbeagreatday! 11 Get a rare look at Batavia’s history — from the vantage point of a trolley. The tour leaves the Depot Museum at 1:30 p.m. 21 “Dreamgirls” is showing at the Paramount Theatre at 1:30 and 7 p.m. Learn more about the show on P. 28! 22 Deep baaah — ahem, collaborating.SugarBlueinSomaAttendbreath.goatyoga;StudioBataviaandSkyFarminGroveare 23 24 Peck Farm Park and the Geneva Park District host the Hustle S’more 5K and 10K. Little ones can participatealsoin the Kids Mile race. 19 Check out the 13th incommitmentlongstandingStreetcelebrateShow,AnniversarycuratedtoWaterStudios’toarttheTri-Cities. 2018 2826 It’s AppleseedJohnny Day. Don’t forget to pick a day for apple picking this fall in Kane County! 2725 1 2 Nurture your creative side with a visit to Elgin’s Fringe Festival, now in its ninth year of performinghonoringartists. 3 SEPTEMBER calendar SUN MON TUE WED THU FRI SAT From festivals to trolley tours, here’swhat’s happening inKane County Compiled by Hannah Hoffmeister Clip this page out Hang it on your fridge so you can celebrate all that September has to offer! Please check online ahead of time for public health guidelines. 29 Do you have an event for the Kane County calendar?Magazine Reach out to us on Facebook or via email shawmedia.com!hhoffmeister@at 30 ELGIN’S FRINGE FESTIVAL SEPTEMBER 202234 OUT & ABOUT
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Photo by Karen Muehlfelt of Keeping Moments Photography
While at the event, be sure to explore all that downtown Geneva has to offer, whether it’s browsing inside local shops or learning more at the Geneva History “FestivalMuseum.oftheVine is a great kickoff to autumn and an opportunity to be outside before the weather gets cooler,” Rush says.
“It’s the same Festival of the Vine after over 40 years, just all conveniently located at the same location in downtown Geneva.”
This year’s Festival of the Vine will take place Sept. 9 through Sept. 11 at its new home by South Fourth and James Guestsstreets.willbe able to sample a variety of wines, and beer will be on tap like last year.
The festival will boast around 15-20 restaurants offering culinary delights to pair with those beverages. Typically each vendor offers three food items.
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While the spirit of this event remains, this year attendees won’t have to cross busy State Street to enjoy the festivities. In previous years, the wine tent was located on the north side with the rest of the festival on the south side.
Our goal is to provide clarity in a complicated world. To give you a true perspective on your savings. And to help you nd con dence for your nancial future.
Festival of the Vine also includes a lineup of events and entertainment to offer something for the whole family. Past activities have included face painting, balloon artist and a play area. A full musical lineup is on tap, with performances slated all three days of the fest. Entertainment will start at 5 p.m. Friday, 1 p.m. Saturday and noon Sunday. And for those looking to get a head start on holiday shopping, an arts and craft show will be held Saturday and Sunday.
F or more than 40 years, the Geneva Chamber of Commerce’s Festival of the Vine has welcomed visitors to dabble in new-to-them wines and culinary inspirations as live music sets the scene.
“The safety of our guests is important. That’s why we felt it was time to have everything on the south side so people won’t have to cross a busy road,” explains Laura Rush, the chamber’s communications director.
Festival of the Vine returns Sept. 9-11 in Geneva
In addition, many local merchants offer their own food and wine events during the festival.
By Vicki Martinka Petersen |
SEPTEMBER 2022 35OUT & ABOUT
Sometimes they’ll serve a signature item unique to the festival, Rush says. You’ll need to visit the on-site ticket booth, which accepts cash or card, to purchase tickets for food and beverages from the vendors. Tickets cost $1 each.
A TO COMMUNITY SPIRIT
Even NaturMothereneeds a hand sometimes.
To understand the process, here are some basics. Ferson Fen, a state-designated nature preserve, uses groundwater to create a peat-forming wetland — a very unique habitat. In the early 2000s, this area fell into degradation due to excessive number of invasive Itspecies.maybe hard to understand the need to keep invasive species out, but the implications have a rippling effect on the area’s plants, wildlife and even humans. For example, cattails, a type of plant often seen near wetlands, are not a native species. These and other invasive plants leave no space or suitable habitat for native species. Because they lack a deep root structure that does not provide erosion control, they do not act as an efficient filter for cleaning the rainwater that makes its way to Ferson Creek and the Fox River. This allows rainwater — with pollutants, like salt from the road — to enter the waterways.
“There is an intrinsic habitat and ecological balance,” Solomon says. “To remove the invasive plants and rebuild with native plants that will support birds, reptiles, fish, amphibians and insects, which are the base of the food web, it’s all interactive.”
“In my free time I love to kayak, camp and fish,” Solomon notes.
After removing the invasive plants with hand-mowing and multiple applications of herbicides, he began the process of reintroducing native plants. This step wouldn’t prove to be easy.
SEED BY SEED SEPTEMBER 202236 OUT & ABOUT
It’s not just for the wildlife and plants; humans depend on the fen too. The creek is meant to swell and taken in heavy rainwater. When the fen isn’t working properly, the creek banks continue to erode, leading to flooding on the roads and nearby homes.
“The eroding creek banks impact transportation, road stability,” Solomon says. Before Solomon was knee-deep in plants and seedlings, he recalls his high school days when he was a three-sport athlete who didn’t quite know where he wanted to go with his career. He liked math and science and thought civil engineering would be a good path of study, but after his first year at University of Illinois in Champaign-Urbana, he realized it wasn’t the right fit. His college advisor suggested a different type of engineering based on his interests. He earned his degree in natural resources and environmental sciences, with a concentration on fish and wildlife preservation and conservation.
Ryan Solomon, ecological restoration supervisor, is leading the charge at Ferson Fen to repair damage from invasive plants, a process taking root seed by seed. While there’s still a long way to go, this past year he’s seen signs of hope as seedlings grow, and birds and insects return to the area.
“I’m floored with how much we’ve been able to do,” Solomon says.
“I can’t just call a nursery and ask for plants we need. It isn’t allowed because this is a statedesignated nature preserve; (Illinois Nature Preserves Commission) management protocols include preserving local genotypes meaning plant material
And while a park district is often thought of for its playing fields and playgrounds, St. Charles Park District has a small team devoted to the care and conservation of 500-plus acres of natural areas. The three most well-known areas are Ferson Creek Fen Nature Preserve, Norris Woods Nature Preserve and Hickory Knolls Natural Area.
By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske Photo provided bySt. Charles Park District
SEPTEMBER 2022 37OUT & ABOUT
Places like Ferson Creek Fen Nature Preserve may not have been conducive to human practices such as agriculture or development; however, they play a crucial role for preserving biodiversity and providing ecological benefits to the surrounding area, Solomon says.
“From the bees and insects that depend on native plants to the area’s ability to take in water, aid in flood control and provide healthy waterways for fishing and recreation use, the hardest part is educating the community how important these areas are to daily living,” Solomon says. For more details on the fen renovations and improvements, visit www.stcnature.org.
SCARY! Saturday • Oct 8 • 9-10:30am 1st Fun Runner . . . . . . . . . Each add’l Fun Runner . . . Ages 3 & under FREE. $10 . $7 ALL Ages
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Dogs and their owners can choose from THREE places in town to play and socialize with others. Dogs must be supervised at all times, be current on all vaccinations, and have current rabies tags worn and visible. Maximum two dogs per person allowed. Dog owners visiting the park are asked to clean up after their pets, fill in any holes dug, and not bring food into the park. Dogs must be on a leash while in the parking lot. Charles,
East Side Sports Complex Access via parking lot off Commerce Drive Open 9am-Dusk • 0.84 acre dog park • access to the site’s pond • 5-foot chain link fence (not around pond) • interactive play features with mulch surface • separate area specifically for smaller dogs River CommunityBend Park Courier & Geneva Avenues Open 9am-Dusk • 3/4 acre dog park • doggy water fountain • securitydouble-gatedentrance James O. CommunityBreenPark Campton Hills & Peck Roads NEW! Lighted Facility Open 9am-10pm • 2.56 acres fenced dog park • doggy water fountain • securitydouble-gatedentrance • dog-friendly equipment • activity stations Dogs must be supervised at all times, be current on all vaccinations, and have current rabies tags worn and visible. Maximum two dogs per person. Dog owners are asked to clean up after their pets, fill in any holes dug, and not bring food into the park. Dogs must be on a leash while in the parking lot. Open Daily (weather & conditions permitting) Bend Breen ST. CH ARLES PARK D I STRICT SINCE 1911 For more info: stcparks.org/dog-parks
run,
Have a hocus pocus GHOUL time with a little exercise and a SKELE-TON of fun this SPOOKY season! For all or part of your run/walk, try morphing into a MUMMY with arms and legs stretched out. No bending your knees! Trick or Treat at the candy/prize stations and learn some silly Halloween jokes along your way. Take home a special Halloween DIY craft. After your 1-mile walk/run, sit for a SPELL and enjoy a BREW (pre-packaged snack & beverage). for Best Halloween Costume. those who love Halloween so much, it’s put into the fen must contain genes with a local ecotype,” Solomon says. After gathering and germinating seedlings from native plants that were able to survive through the invasive encroachment, he discovered they weren’t well suited to survive. “This was setting up the site to fail; we needed to get some genetic diversity to promote a stable and resilient ecosystem,” Solomon says. It would take many phone calls, emails and conversations to attain access to the seeds he would need and then restart the process of germinating the seeds into seedlings. He was able to collaborate and obtain seeds from Big Rock Forest Preserve in Kane County, Spring Lake Forest Preserve of Barrington in Cook County and Lake in the Hills Fen in McHenry County.
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“Right now, it’s taking a lot of effort to turn the place around,” adds Solomon. “But as the years go by hopefully it won’t be as intensive, and we’ll reach our goal of a nature preserve that’s a high-quality functioning ecosystem.”
eptember may not be the first month of your child's school year, but by now, you're hopefully finding a rhythm and settling down into a routine. If this makes you look around and realize the kids or grandkids are getting older, you're not alone. Inevitably, you will allow yourself to think about what your child will do after high school. Your focus may start on what type of school they may attend and what they may choose to study — which are far more pleasant topics than how this all will be paid for. Out of curiosity you may grab your phone, search for a favorite college and look up what it will cost to attend. This is the point where your knuckles turn white as you tightly squeeze both the phone and the glass in your hand. As the sampling of some popular regional institutions shows, the current published costs of attendance can be intimidating. The picture becomes more serious when you consider the amount you would need to plan for if you have a child born in 2021 who would attend a school for four years starting in 2039.
HOW TO INCORPORATE SAVING FOR HIGHER EDUCATION INTO YOUR GOALS INSTITUTION TUITION/ROOM/FEES* PROJECTED TOTAL COST 2039-2042** Indiana BloomingtonUniversity,(Non-resident) $51,222 $531,300 Northwestern University, Evanston (Resident) $78,654 $815,858 The University of Iowa, Iowa City (Non-resident) $46,789 $485,153 The University of Wisconsin, Madison (Non-resident) $53,613 $556,123 University of Chicago (Resident) $81,531 $845,706 University of Urbana-ChampaignIllinois,(Resident) $47,444 $492,193 S CASH COLLEGEFOR SEPTEMBER 202238 BUSINESS & CIVIC
*Published annual tuition, room & board, and required fees. **Assume 5% annual increase and student attends for four years starting in 2039.
P Ask relatives to contribute to the savings account in lieu of gifts.
P Increase the amount you save by 5% each year to keep up with the college tuition inflation rate.
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Strategies for investing for college are many and cannot be adequately covered in this single article. Contact us to discuss ways your money can work as hard as you do. contained in this report purport to considered of McCartneyandnotnecessarily thoseofRaymondJames. areasofthisdateandare without
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Unfortunately for your wallet, the aid you may receive from the government, colleges and private scholarships often only cover about onethird of all college expenses. The sooner you start saving, the better off you will be in the long run, and even modest savings can grow into significant investments by the time your child is ready to head off to school.
P Keep your savings and investment plans a priority.
P When they are old enough to get a job, have your children contribute half of their earnings into their college savings fund.
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P Consult your financial advisor and collaborate to develop a plan with milestones for achieving your child’s educational goal. As your children get old enough, have them periodically accompany you when meeting with your financial advisor, allowing them to learn and become engaged in the process.
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P Make sure to not carry credit card debt and to maintain an emergency fund as this will help keep you from having to “raid” college savings to cover other expenses.
notice. SEPTEMBER 2022 39BUSINESS & CIVIC
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P Save and invest windfalls such as inheritances, income tax refunds or bonuses.
P Save money methodically via payroll deduction or via another systematic investment method. (Your financial advisor should be able to help you with this.)
HERE’S HOW TO GET STARTED SAVING
FAMILY DISCOVERS “I LOVE LUCY” HAVING A BALL THIS SUMMER SUBURBAN SUPERDAD SEPTEMBER 202240 FAMILY IN FOCUS
PL ANS TO MEET YO UR EV ER CH ANGING NEEDS Call 847.640.0402 today! For Home, Auto, Life and Business. Harr y Stout Your Local Agent 11 S 2ND AVE STE 3 ST CHARLES, IL 60174 HSTOUT@FARMERSAGENT.COM https://agents.farmers.com/hstout ■ Cove ra ge yo u ca n cus to mi ze to me et yo ur ne ed s ■ Ge t th e mos t va lu e fo r yo ur cove ra ge ■ Co nt ac t me fo r a fr ee cove ra ge re vi ew Restrictions apply. Discounts may vary. Not available in all states. See your agent for details. Insurance is underwritten by Farmers Insurance Exchange and other affiliated insurance companies. Visit farmers.com for a complete listing of companies. Not all insurers are authorized to provide insurance in all states. Coverage is not available in all states.
T his summer was never intended to have this much grayscale. Nor was it intended to have this many Ricardos, or the Mertzes living upstairs. Yet, for months, our house has been a seemingly never-ending stream of vitameatavegamin, Little Ricky and Cuban Pete — because, apparently, my girls absolutely love Lucy. Headed into this summer, we had big plans: camping trips, theme parks, backyard parties and other gatherings with family and friends. Hiking and bicycling, movies and concerts in the park, a couple of big road Instead,trips.right from the start, those plans were altered thanks to the quick arrival of COVID-19. Like in most cases, we still don’t know where it came from. But the double lines on the tests were unmistakable, as were the symptoms. So, instead of summer’s expected opening notes, our family began the season with a LUCILLE BALL, THAT IS, AS SUPERDAD’S
For our oldest, we gave some options, mostly movies pulled from the ’80s and ’90s — which, we thought, was a good place to start. There’s still a long way to go, but I am pleased to report that if you drop certain movie references from that era, she won’t just stare at you like you’re George McFly.
Hearing new sounds emanating from the living room, the younglings came to investigate. First came the older, who dutifully and curiously settled into the couch, trying to make heads or tails of the black-andwhite images flickering across the screen. She was followed about a half-hour later by the little one, who loudly guffawed and said, “Why are you watching this old-fashioned show?” A highly potent blend of confusion and derision soaked her every syllable, drawing a sitcom-laugh-track style response from her mother and me. She skipped away to resume her normal little kid play activities in the other room.
Two months later, and all my wife needs to do is channel Desi Arnaz and call out “Luuuucy!” and they come, quickly, leaping onto the couch or skidding to a stop in front on the floor before the television, smiling and giggling, gasping or even shouting in grinning disbelief at the latest nonsensical escapades and onscreen antics of those silly Ricardos and their friends.
A work-related phone call pulled me away into another room, seeking privacy. When I returned about an hour later, what to my wondering eyes should appear, but one of the last things I ever expected to see: a vision of my two children, with their mother, entirely engrossed in an episode of “I Love Lucy.”
So, best-laid plans aside, the question arises: Is this a one-hit wonder, a one-off, a random freak occurrence? Or will more classic TV characters, particularly strong female leads (Jeannie or Samantha, perhaps?) soon join us in the living room? Will our usual binge-watching choices soon resemble a run of MeTV? (Or “Nick at Night.” If you know, you Whateverknow.) the results, color me intrigued as we all tune in next time for more surprises and laughs, as we join our kids on their first real trip down memory lane.
The real disbelief is mine, though. If you had asked me to curate a list of old-timey shows my little ones would take a shine to — with all respect to the comedic brilliance of Lucille Ball and the Latin jazz chops of ol’ Desi — I would have given out a loud Ricky Ricardo belly laugh (if you don’t know, Google it) at the thought that my kids would ever love Lucy. And yet, you see, they now do.
But nonetheless, faced with days of potential earlyonset summer boredom, their mother and I resolved to do something we had been meaning to do for some time: upgrade our kids’ historical pop culture Webandwidth.drewup a plan: Our kids, who have known far too much Disney+ and Netflix originals, knew next to nothing about any entertainment produced before their year of birth. Now, we seized the chance to introduce them to some of the “classics” of American bubblegum pop culture.
week and a half spent mostly on the couch, entirely in Fortunately,quarantine.
For our younger one, the sitcom selections were warmly received, though not with the same enthusiasm as, say, a new season of “Bluey.” But the one we never saw coming arrived at the tail end of quarantine. Just before we reentered normal life, my wife happened to start watching even older television shows, ones with considerably less color.
no big plans were scuttled, and symptoms remained akin to a mild bout of influenza for Mom and Dad, and even less for the kids.
wantsdoghislegitimatelybeingtheJonathanBilykwritesabouttriumphsandtravailsofamodern-daydadwhoenjoystimewithfamily,whiletoleratingathatseemstoadorehim.Healsodoesn’treallylikethemoniker“Superdad”becauseitmakesitsoundlikehetowearhisundergarmentsontheoutsideofhispants.(Also,thecaperemainsonbackorder.) SEPTEMBER 2022 41FAMILY IN FOCUS
Recently, executive director Peg Coker says, several Ukrainian learners have enrolled in the program, which serves adults who live and work in almost all of Kane County. Its mission is “to help individuals in the region acquire the literacy skills that they need to function more effectively in contemporary U.S. society,” the website states. “We want to equip and empower individuals who are otherwise unable to participate fully in our Trainedcommunity.”volunteers meet with adult students for one hour every week. While Literacy Volunteers Fox Valley coordinates convenient, public meeting locations, various tutors and students have opted to keep the virtual learning setting that was the norm early in the pandemic.
“We regularly talk about it. It’s obviously very difficult for her but it’s important that she’s able to get anything off her chest that she needs, in my opinion.”
FOX COLLABORATEVOLUNTEERSVALLEYANDSTUDENTSONENGLISHSKILLS
“You can be here or you can be in California walking and take part in this fundraiser,” Coker explains. “So, it’s a rather new venture for us, but I think it’s going to be a successful one.”
Si está interesado en aprender el idioma inglés, llame o envíe un mensaje de texto al 630-584-2811 o visite www.lvfv.org/needa-tutor.
If you are interested in learning the English language, call or text 630-5842811 or visit www.lvfv.org/need-a-tutor.
LIFELONG Learners SEPTEMBER 202242 FAMILY IN FOCUS
One student who recently relocated to Toronto has continued his sessions with a Fox Valley-based tutor, Coker says. Once unconventional or even unfathomable, such arrangements are what Coker and colleagues hope will help augment the organization and keep it moving forward.
“I believe this organization is great, and I’m very happy that even though English is my second language, they are giving me the opportunity to help someone else,” she says. “And I felt welcomed by everyone in the organization and that has helped greatly.”
On the tutor side, Coker beams about volunteers’ desire to give back, an ethic that has shaped the organization for more than 35 years. The sentiment comes full circle for tutor Mike Sliczniak, who, amid political unrest in his native Poland, immigrated with his family to St. Charles in the early Vivirito-Valais1980s.taught English as a second language in her homeland of France before moving to St. Charles with her husband, an Illinois native. She recalls many proud moments, including when her student grasped the difference between responding to the questions, “Where do you live?” and “Where are you from?”
By Kevin Druley
Aline Vivirito-Valais, a tutor and board member, favors the former approach. She finds taking extra steps helps deepen the connection with her student, an adult wishing to learn English.
B y design, tutors and students with St. Charles-based Literacy Volunteers Fox Valley meet one-onone, in person or virtually.
“Depending on where our conversations take us, I often pull out the maps and we communicate through those. She tells me where her cousins are and how they are impacted,” Vivirito-Valais says, referencing Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Vivirito-Valais incorporates geography into her lessons, toting maps of Europe, the United States and Ukraine, her student’s country of origin.
The trivia bee, meanwhile, is set to be held in person March 18, 2023, with the theme to be announced in January. For more information on attending events or getting involved with the organization itself, visit www.lvfv.org.
With LVFV’s most prominent annual fundraisers, a donor breakfast and the Trivia Bee for Literacy, unable to be held in recent years given pandemic restrictions, the organization has planned for September a 5K that allows participants to log activity from their present location.
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