Mc march2017eedition

BIG SUR YURTS AT TREEBONES RESORT PAGE 30

MARCH 2017

THE TRAVEL ISSUE

SUMATRA

WHERE THE ORANGUTANS ROAM PAGE 14

RIDE THE RAILROADS

THROUGH RUGGED AMERICA PAGE 28

EUROPEAN SAFARIS PORTUGAL, CROATIA AND ROMANIA

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INSIDE TRAVEL 8 ‘REWILDING’ PROJECT Spurs safari-style tourism to set up camp in Europe 10 APP HAPPY Must-haves for the tech-loving traveler 12 UNITED STATES OF THE ARTS Explore some of the nation’s most celebrated spots in cuisine, music and literature 14 A WALK ON THE WILD SIDE Jungle trek explores one of the last places on Earth where orangutans roam free 18 NEW ORLEANS Big-time family fun in the Big Easy 20 SOUTHERN CHARM Scenic winding roads, quaint towns, state parks and wineries make Southern Illinois a great weekend escape 24 ADVENTURES IN AIRBNB-ING From L.A. to Shanghai: A travelogue on homestays around the world

14 A WALK ON THE

WILD SIDE

Jungle trek explores one of the last places on Earth where orangutans roam free

4 | MARCH 2017 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

26 THE ‘MOTHER ROAD’ Get your Kitsch on Route 66 28 RIDE THE RAILS Six scenic train trips through rugged America 30 A BOHEMIAN RETREAT Continue California dreamin’ in Big Sur

BUSINESS & CIVIC 37 WOMAN OF DISTINCTION Susan Ling serves as teacher, advocate for families dealing with mental illness 39 RETIREMENT TALK Simplifying required minimum distributions

DINING & ENTERTAINING 44 HOPPS ON THE ROAD Wild and wonderful breweries worthy of the trip 46 LUCK O’ THE IRISH Local breweries, pubs to share in St. Patrick’s Day shenanigans

OUT & ABOUT 50 BOOK NOOK Travel tales to whisk you away 52 ARTIST SHOWCASE Cary resident Michelle Clesceri shares an oil on canvas piece, entitled ‘Just Let Us Party’ 54 CALENDAR OF EVENTS See what’s happening in McHenry County in March!

35 WANDER WOMEN The rise of girls trips and solo travel

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ENIOR ORTRAITS

121 S. MAIN ST. | ALGONQUIN, IL 847-989-2782RONMCKINNEYPHOTO.COM

Editor's Note It’s nearly spring, and the desire to pack a bag and catch a flight to anywhere but here is in the air. After hibernating all winter, it’s time to thaw out under a palm tree with a tiki drink in hand and another one on the way.

If you can’t make an escape just yet, hopefully our travel issue will instill enough wanderlust to kick-start the trip-planning process.

I actually got to take some vacation time of my own recently. And, after almost a year of planning, saving, booking and waiting, I finally got to go on my whirlwind journey through Southeast Asia. I returned with some good stories to tell, decent-enough photos to share and a little insight to impart on anyone who feels like listening.

One of this year’s travel trends is ethical travel – eco-friendly tours and trips geared toward animal welfare, conservation and sustainability. So, for this month’s cover, we’re featuring Rewilding Europe, a nonprofit conservation organization aiming to dedicate about 1 million hectares of land to 10 wildlife and wilderness areas all across the continent.

The initiative is spurring safari-style tourism to set up camp in Europe, too, which will only

succeed in reconnecting people with the natural world and its wild inhabitants.

Also related to conservation tourism is “A Walk on the Wild Side,” a story about my recent trip to Sumatra, where I observed orangutans in the wild during a two-day jungle trek. Find out how wildlife viewing adventures are one way to keep endangered species protected, on Page 14.

For those looking to keep it low key and local this summer, we’ve got something for you, too. We’re highlighting the quaint towns, wineries and state parks of Southern Illinois; road trip-worthy breweries; scenic train trips (that leave from Chicago) and some of the nation’s most celebrated spots in cuisine, music and literature.

Happy travels and thanks for reading!

Kara Silva, Editor

GENERAL MANAGER Jim Ringness 815-526-4614 jringness@shawmedia.com DIRECTOR OF NICHE PUBLISHING Laura Shaw 630-427-6213 lshaw@shawmedia.com EDITOR Kara Silva 630-427-6209 ksilva@shawmedia.com

on the

COVER

Europe is about to get a lot wilder! Nonprofit organization Rewilding Europe is creating 10 wilderness areas across the continent in an effort to restore local ecosystems. The initiative is spurring safaristyle tourism in countries like Portugal (pictured), Croatia and beyond. Find out more, on Page 8.

Photo by João Romba

6 | MARCH 2017 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

Published by Shaw Media 7717 S. Route 31, Crystal Lake, IL 60014 Phone: 815-459-4040 Fax: 815-477-4960 www.McHenryCountyMagazine.com

DESIGNER Carol Manderfield 630-427-6253 cmanderfield@shawmedia.com CORRESPONDENTS Melissa Riske, Kelsey O’Connor, Kevin Druley, Chris Walker, Yvonne Benson, Allison Horne, Stephanie N. Grimoldby, Peter Stadalsky, Allison Manley, Paul Schneider PHOTOGRAPHERS Juan Carlos Muñoz, João Romba. Paul Schneider, From Me 2 You Photography

McHenry County Magazine is available by subscription for $24 a year. If you would like each month’s edition mailed to your home, send payment information and address to McHenry County Magazine, 7717 S. Route 31, Crystal Lake, IL 60014 or via email at subscriptions@ shawmedia.com.

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Popular

Vein Myths

‘Rewilding’ project SPURS SAFARI-STYLE TOURISM TO SET UP CAMP IN EUROPE

By CHRIS WALKER

Zoologist Jim Fowler once said, “The continued existence of wildlife and wilderness is important to the quality of life of humans.”

Echoing Fowler’s ideals with its latest initiative is Rewilding Europe, a nonprofit conservation organization aiming to make Europe a much wilder place.

According to the website, “rewilding” aims to make natural processes and wild species play a more prominent role in the wild, “meaning that after initial support, nature is allowed to take more care of itself.” Rewilding Europe plans to “rewild” 1 million or more hectares of land by 2020, which will result in 10 wildlife and wilderness areas.

The project is based on a philosophy utilized in Yellowstone National Park, where wolves and bison were reintroduced into the wild as a means of restoring the local ecosystem.

The effort also is providing opportunities for tourists to Europe to reconnect with nature through wildlife-watching tours and camps.

Through the collaboration with the European Safari Company, unique safari experiences are being offered to those seeking nature-based getaways.

Here are just a few of the many opportunities travelers to Europe will have to get up-close and personal with wildlife:

¢ FAIA BRAVA STAR CAMP | PORTUGAL Those with a bucket list should definitely add the Star Camp as a destination. Overlooking Portugal’s Côa Valley in the Faia Brava Reserve, sits Europe’s first real safari-style accommodation, featuring almost 100 hectares between the peaks of the Serra da Marofa and the vineyards of the Douro River.

Overlooking the awe-inspiring landscape of Western Iberia, the Star Camp offers the opportunity to visit a place that’s rich in wildlife, a varied habitat of olive trees and cork oaks, recovering Mediterranean forests, as well as abandoned farmhouses, shepherd shelters and dry stone walls.

Rooms include running water, a bathroom with a shower, double beds, WiFi, amazing starry skies by night and mountain views during the day. ¢ BISON, BEAR AND CHAMOIS ADVENTURE IN BISON HILLOCK | ROMANIA Bison disappeared from the wild in Romania approximately 200 years ago, but thanks to “rewilding” efforts from a variety of organizations, including Rewilding Europe, they’re making a comeback.

During the adventure tour, you will track bison and also learn why they are so significant to the world’s ecosystem. Several hours will be spent

hiking, so you’ll need to be prepared physically for this safari and need a good pair of boots.

As impressive as the bison may be, you might later contend that bear watching in the Tarcu Mountains in Romania is even more amazing. An experienced nature guide will accompany you on this trip, which includes accommodation in a cabin or tented camp. ¢ WILDLIFE WATCHING EXPERIENCE IN VELEBIT MOUNTAINS | CROATIA Become engaged with the sounds, smells and sights of nature in the Velebit Mountains in Croatia.

Photography-enthusiasts will spend their time soaking in everything nature has to offer in hides, which feature exterior designs that resemble a log pile. They accommodate up to six people and have plenty of viewing windows. They also feature a pair of beds for those looking for the unique experience of nighttime wildlife viewing.

This trip also offers hiking in the mountains and there are additional activities that can be enjoyed nearby, including mountain biking and boating along the coast.

Photo by Juan Carlos Muñoz / Rewilding Europe

u For more information about safaris and “rewilding” efforts, visit Rewilding Europe’s website at www. rewildingeurope.com.

APP HAPPY

Must-haves for the tech-loving traveler

By YVONNE BENSON

You probably have three to five travel apps on your phone already, as it seems nearly impossible to get anywhere new without Google Maps; and Google Translate is a must during those near lostin-translation moments when you need to communicate in an unfamiliar language.

Another go-to app you probably utilize is Yelp, which is excellent for finding great restaurants, museums or other items of interest. But there are so many more!

Here is a list of must-haves for the app-happy traveler:

¢ All-around apps TRIPADVISOR

WWW.TRIPADVISOR.COM

You probably can’t do much better than TripAdvisor for a great, all-around travel app. Not only does it help you with booking airfare, rental cars and hotels, it also makes recommendations for what to do when you arrive at your destination.

HOPPER

WWW.HOPPER.COM

Hopper is amazing in helping users purchase tickets for flights. Not only does it search multiple airlines for the best deals, it also tells you the best dates to get the cheapest prices. You tell the app where and when you want to fly, and the app will automatically track price trends and alert your phone when it’s the best time to buy. You can buy tickets right through the app, too.

¢ Lodging These days, it’s relatively easy to find a hotel online when making travel plans, however, these two apps might provide an alternative to traditional hotel booking.

AIRBNB

WWW.AIRBNB.COM

Airbnb connects users with residents who rent out their apartment, home or spare room. Don’t worry, you can read the reviews about the residents and chat with them ahead of time to give you peace of mind. It’s a great way to have a less expensive place to stay, without out sacrificing quality, in an area where hotels are more expensive. Plus, Airbnb prides itself on offering offbeat accommodations, such as treehouses, yurts, silos, tiny houses and even sailboats.

HOTEL TONIGHT

WWW.HOTELTONIGHT.COM

Hotel Tonight is another app that works at finding last-minute hotel deals. It’s like the Marshall’s or TJ Maxx of hotels. Hotels might have cancellations or rooms available that night that it’s willing to make available for a discounted price. This works well if you have last-minute travel plans or maybe you unexpectedly find yourself stuck somewhere overnight.

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¢ Virtual Tour Guide GUIDES BY LONELY PLANET

WWW.LONELYPLANET.COM/GUIDES

Deciding what to do or where to eat in a new place can be completely overwhelming. Instead of sorting through user-review apps, such as Yelp or TripAdvisor, and Guides by Lonely Planet simplifies the decisions in a couple of ways. First, it allows you to explore places ahead of time and add them to your trip folder. Second, It also tells you what’s nearby when you arrive at your destination. Minube is another app that works similarly.

¢ Transportation CITY MAPPER AND SIDEKIX

CITYMAPPER.COM AND WWW.GETSIDEKIX.COM

Getting around in a new city can be completely overwhelming so City Mapper and Sidekix make it painless. City Mapper works by helping you navigate public transportation, including buses, trains and even rental bikes. It identifies popular sites in the city and helps you figure out how to get there on your own. Sidekix is a little different. It specializes in guiding users on foot. Pedestrians can go against traffic on one-way streets, cut through alleys and walk through parks – and Sidekix knows that.

¢ Social

SCOUT

WWW.SCOUTGPS.COM

Scout is an app that coordinates a group of people meeting at a certain place and at a certain time. You can get directions to a meeting place, while also seeing the whereabouts of your friends or family members.

This app is great if group members want to do different things during the day, but need to meet up for dinner later. The app allows you to see that your sister is still at the museum and that your parents are leisurely walking the restaurant for dinner. Scout also enables the group to chat in order to keep members updated or make modifications to previously discussed plans.

POSTGRAM

SINCERELY.COM/POSTAGRAM

Postgram provides a fun way to take pictures and then mail them with custom messages as postcards. If your grandparents aren’t on social media and insist on seeing printed photos, Postgram can take care of that for you. www.nwherald.com/magazine

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MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | MARCH 2017 | 11

United States of

the Arts

Explore some of the nation’s most celebrated spots in cuisine, music and literature

By YVONNE BENSON

Whether it’s a sonnet, dish or book, one thing is certain: The arts have an ability to move you, and they serve as a reminder of all that there is to love about being human – and life. Listed are some of the nation’s top spots for travelers to take pleasure in the musical, literary and culinary arts.

MUSIC t RED ROCKS PARK AND AMPHITHEATER Morrison, Colorado redrocksonline.com Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater is a perfect marriage of awe-inspiring nature and man-made music venue. Most of the time the park offers free entry for hiking the trails and you can even sign up for a $1 yoga class all while appreciating the towering red rocks that surround the venue.

Other family-friendly activities include classic film showings, such as “Grease,” “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off” and “The Sandlot.” This year’s summer concert series will include Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, Celtic Woman, Norah Jones and many more.

PRESERVATION HALL New Orleans, Louisiana preservationhall.com Walking down St. Peter Street in the New Orleans French Quarter to Preservation Hall is like walking back in time. You can buy tickets online or pay $15 to $20 cash at the door (line-waiting often runs about an hour. The tiny venue can seat 40 people on benches or floor cushions and there is standing room for about 60 12 | MARCH 2017 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

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people. The hall features jazz performances by the house band or from a list of regular performers. You might find the hall’s resident cat, Sweets, wandering around.

MOTOWN MUSEUM Detroit, Michigan www.motownmuseum.org Motown Museum in Detroit was the original headquarters of Motown record company.

The museum is so popular that visitors must secure tickets to one of its tours, which begin every hour on the hour. During tours, people are immersed in the distinctive Motown sound that is familiar and legendary.

AMOEBA MUSIC Los Angeles, California www.amoeba.com Amoeba Music, located on Sunset Boulevard, claims to have the biggest – and most diverse – collection of music and movies under one roof.

However, it is more than just a music store. It’s a gathering place for music enthusiasts to mourn the loss of industry icons while also enjoying live performances. Amoeba has regular free shows by artists, one of whom includes – most famously – Paul McCartney, who recorded “Amoeba’s Secret” during his performance.

Literature ERNEST HEMINGWAY’S BIRTHPLACE AND MUSEUM Oak Park, Illinois www.ehfop.org Oak Park is quite proud of its literary status as being the birthplace of Ernest Hemingway. Visit and tour the literary legend’s childhood home, where his peers never knew him as a famous author.

The museum has interesting artifacts, such as Hemingway’s childhood diary and the famous letter – later portrayed in “A Farewell to Arms” – from nurse Agnes von Kurowsky that ended the couple’s engagement. Those who visit during the weekend of July 17 can participate in Hemingway’s birthday bash and the Hemingway 8K Running of the Bulls.

POWELL’S CITY OF BOOKS Portland, Oregon www.powells.com Powell’s City of Books in Portland is known as the world’s largest independent bookstore. This place is a booklover’s paradise, where people enjoy getting lost in the many wonders of the written word.

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THE AMERICAN WRITERS MUSEUM Chicago, Illinois americanwritersmuseum.org

p MARK TWAIN HOUSE AND MUSEUM Hartford, Connecticut www.marktwainhouse.org Samuel Clemens, a.k.a. Mark Twain, and his family lived in Hartford for nearly 20 years. It’s the same place where he said, “Of all the beautiful towns it has been my fortune to see, this is the chief... . You do not know what beauty is if you have not been here.” It is in Twain’s house that you might feel the same inspiration he felt to write some of his most famous characters, such as Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn.

Keep an eye peeled for the May 16 opening of The American Writers Museum. Inspired by the Dublin Writers Museum in Ireland, the national museum will celebrate American writers and literature.

Cuisine FRENCH LAUNDRY Yountville, California www.thomaskeller.com Repeatedly lauded to be among the best restaurants in the world, The French Laundry in the Napa Valley area is a destination where diners are blissfully rewarded for the tedium involved in securing a reservation and paying more than $300 a person (before tip and alcohol) to dine. Chef Thomas Keller challenges himself to never

SUMMER IS ENDLESS ON CELEBRITY EQUINOX

repeat an ingredient on a single menu and, in this way, leads diners in discovering the nuance behind tasting familiar ingredients but – seemingly – for the first time.

LE BERNARDIN New York, New York www.le-bernardin.com For chef Eric Ripert, food is an expression of memories and emotion. The menus at his highlyacclaimed and world-renowned French Seafood restaurant, Le Bernardin, take diners on an extremely-refined journey in fine dining. (Women are given foot stools for their purses). A top dish on the menu is the Yellow Fin Tuna Carpaccio – ibérico ham “chutney,” sea beans and lemon-extra virgin olive oil.

ALINEA Chicago, Illinois www.alinearestaurant.com The three-star-Michelin-rated Alinea is a Latin symbol that indicates a new paragraph. Chef Grant Achatz strives to take guests on an entire journey of performance and discovery. Guests begin by going down a hallway that is frequently transformed and always marks the entry into a different world. Dishes are disguised as centerpieces, enveloped in sweet smelling smoke and suspended by helium.

ELIZABETH Chicago, Illinois www.elizabeth-restaurant.com Led by Chef Iliana Regan, Elizabeth restaurant defines farm-to-table fine dining. Regan’s menu is described as honest, and she hearkens to her Midwest roots – a style that she likes to call “new gatherer cuisine.”

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MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | MARCH 2017 | 13

Photo by Elton Silva

Jungle trek explores one of the last places on Earth where orangutans roam free Story and photos by KARA SILVA

I could feel an incisor tooth gently grinding against my skin. No pain. Just pressure. Her teeth were clamped around my index finger, between the knuckle and nail.

my own – tightly coiled around my wrist; my bony finger protruding from her lips like a toothpick. A surge of anxiety rattled my body as I tried to pry my arm free from her grip.

Somehow my hand had ended up in the mouth of Orangutans being several times stronger than humans, I quickly realized that I had no choice an orangutan. but to comply with my red-haired captor.

Hoping to be given fruit in exchange for It wasn’t your typical hostage situation, but it my release, Jackie – a semi-wild Sumatran was evident that this particular great ape knew orangutan – waited patiently while our guides nervously scrambled to find food in their overly- how to hustle in the jungle. Minutes later, Jackie was rewarded a ransom and I walked away with crammed backpacks. my appendages fully intact.

Jackie kept her hand – which closely resembled

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My run-in with Jackie took place during a two-day jungle trek through Gunung Leuser National Park in Sumatra. The Indonesian island is one of the last two places in the world where orangutans can still be found in the wild. (The other being Borneo.)

Orangutan observation tours not only fuel the local economy, but they also galvanize support for orangutan conservation; something that is so crucial to their livelihood, as deforestation continues to threaten their very existence.

-Continued on page 16 MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | MARCH 2017 | 15

BY THE NUMBERS 2

Number places where orangutans still exist in the wild (Sumatra and Borneo)

97

The percentage of DNA that orangutans share with humans

45

Average life span of a wild orangutan (in years)

8

The number of years between births (the longest inter-birth interval of any landliving animal)

40,000

The number of wild orangutans remaining in Borneo and Sumatra.

-Continued from page 15 The International Union for Conservation of Nature lists Sumatran orangutans as critically-endangered or, to be frank, on the brink of extinction. Estimates suggest that these highly-intelligent, thinking and feeling mammals – that also happen to share 97 percent of the same genetic material as humans – could be the first great ape species to become extinct in the wild, according to research published by the international conservation journal “Oryx.”

In fact, the IUCN (as of last year), stated that four out of six great apes – both kinds of orangutan and both kinds of gorilla – are currently listed as critically-endangered.

To see that our closest relatives are on the verge of extinction is daunting, especially since their demise is almost completely due to human activity.

Indonesia and Malaysia are the world’s chief palm oil producers. Palm oil also happens to be the biggest threat to the survival of the orangutan. As plantations continue to expand, they encroach on the orangutan’s territory.

Adding to their decline, too, is the pet trade and illegal logging and killing.

60,000

The number of wild orangutans remaining in Borneo and Sumatra as recent as a decade ago

230,000

The estimated number of orangutans that roamed in the wild a century ago

Hope for the species lies in conservation efforts.

Jackie is one of more than 200 orangutans that were reintroduced to the wild by Bohorok Centre for ex-captive Sumatran orangutans – which gives her, and apes like her, a “semi-wild” status. Though the rehabilitation center closed in the ’90s, the area remains open to tourists who embark on two- to five-day observation treks into the biologically-diverse Gunung Leuser National Park. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the tropical rainforest also is home to the Sumatran rhinoceros and tiger, but sightings are rare.

During my guided two-day trek with the aptly named Sumatra EcoTravel – an ecologically responsible outfitter that leads jungle treks and other tours – we saw an abundance of native insects and wildlife. Short- and long-tailed macaques, an Asian Water Monitor lizard, a Thomas Leaf Monkey and around a dozen orangutans, which included the cute-as-pie babies of rehabbed, semiwild orangutans.

Bukit Lawang serves as the gateway to orangutan trekking in Sumatra. The small tourist-friendly village is connected by bridges suspended over the white waters of the Bohorok River. The villagers exude a contagious passion for the surrounding jungle and its inhabitants.

Tourists are embraced with open arms, as they serve a local economy that doesn’t involve the destruction of the forest. Locals seamlessly intermingle with tourists, and it’s common for jungle nights to be spent at local, open-air bars that fill with the sounds of acoustic guitars, bongos, cajón drums and participatory singing of familiar western songs.

B&Bs and guesthouses strung along the riverfront are the main form of accommodation, but treks into the jungle mean camping and sleeping in the jungle – which is an unforgettable experience. (Imagine waking up to the pitter patter of little monkey feet on the roof of your bamboo hut.)

6,600

The number of Sumatran orangutans remaining in the wild.

After six to eight hours of hiking in consistently changing elevation, through tangled foliage and on muddy, roottorn trails, a riverside campsite in the middle of the jungle finally greets its intrepid trekkers. But don’t think the wildlife watching ends there. Our arrival was soon met by Suma, another semi-wild orangutan, and her baby. Some of the best orangutan observing took place at camp.

The red-haired duo spent hours peering down at us from

– Statistics and estimations are taken from Orangutan Conservancy, EcoTravel Sumatra Bukit Lawang and Orangutan Foundation.

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u IF YOU GO

the treetops. Suma even entered our campsite on multiple occasions to get a closer look.

SUMATRAN ORANGUTAN JUNGLE TREK

It was at camp that I had my second memorable encounter with an orangutan.

TOUR OPERATOR: EcoTravel Sumatra LOCATION: Bukit Lawang, Sumatra WEBSITE: sumatra-ecotravel.com EMAIL: info@sumatraecotravel.com

After trekking, I changed out of my sweat-soaked pants and T-shirt and exited my sleeping quarters to find Suma standing five feet from me.

Standing upright on two legs like a person, Suma had been observing some “wildlife” of her own – human life. Orangutan translates to “person of the forest,” and it was when we made eye contact that I could see the “humanness” in her.

There was something going on behind those eyes.

An intelligence. A quiet tranquility. More than I think we, as human beings, will ever have the full capacity or ability to know or understand.

Spending time with the orangutans in their natural habitat wasn’t just an unforgettable experience; it struck a deeper chord. It reminded me of the connectedness of everything – of life. And how easily something as miraculous and perfectly

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imperfect as a living being – even an entire species – can disappear forever.

The situation isn’t hopeless. Conservation is key.

But, if there was ever a time to make this trip to this place, it’s probably now. Now, because the near future might be too late for the “people of the forest.”

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MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | MARCH 2017 | 17

A FEW MORE THINGS NOLA public transit utilizes streetcars, which kids love. Rides cost $1.25 (have exact change), but a Jazzy Pass can save money on multiple rides.

The World War II Museum is the top-rated tourist attraction in New Orleans, providing firstperson veteran accounts of the “war that changed the world.”

New Orleans hosted Season 3 of “American Horror Story,” and teens often enjoy haunted history tours.

Nearby shopping can be found at The Outlet Collection at Riverwalk; Shops at Canal Place; the Shops at Jax Brewery; and on Magazine Street.

Just outside Jackson Square, hitch a ride on a mule-drawn carriage for a rustic tour of the French Quarter.

Swamp tours are family-friendly – kids love the airboats.

Big time family fun in the Big Easy

By STEPHANIE N. GRIMOLDBY When you think of New Orleans, do you think of raucous parties on Bourbon Street? Local cuisine like crawfish and gumbo and libations like hurricanes and hand grenades?

“The zoo is a must-do when coming to New Orleans,” Smith says.

Besides new elephant and orangutan habitats, the zoo offers a Louisiana swamp habitat that discusses the It may seem like the Big Easy is “Adults region, the wetlands, and Cajun Only,” but don’t let its reputation as a culture, Smith says. In the summer party destination fool you. months, families beat the heat at the “Cool Zoo,” featuring a splash pad and “What a lot of people don’t realize is lazy river.

New Orleans is family-friendly,” says Tony DeVargas, a licensed tour guide The Audubon Butterfly Garden and with What To See and Do In New Insectarium, located inside the historic Orleans.

U.S. Custom House on Canal Street From free activities to attractions that in the French Quarter, is the largest are well worth the ticket price, there’s free-standing museum dedicated to insects, Smith says. plenty to see and do in NOLA - even with the kids in tow.

WORTH THE PRICE If there’s one (or two or three) slightly heftier attractions for a family to visit in New Orleans, it might be the Audubon sites.

The Audubon Nature Institute is a nonprofit organization comprising 10 parks and museums in the New Orleans area, and the Audubon Zoo, located in Uptown NOLA, is one of the top zoos in the country, says Katie Smith, director of public relations for ANI.

Not only are there live habitats, pinned insects, a butterfly garden and coy pond, there also are hands-on exhibits – such as Bug Appétit, where chefs discuss how other cultures incorporate insects into their diets as a source of protein, and viewers get to sample waxworm salsa, chocolate “chirp” cookies and more.

“It’s definitely something you’re not going to find in that kind of scope in another city,” Smith says.

The Audubon Aquarium of the Americas is located along the

Mississippi River in the French Quarter, but you’ll learn about more than Mississippi creatures – such as “Chompitoulas,” a white alligator coyly named after a New Orleans street – Tchoupitoulas.

As its name suggests, the aquarium spans the Americas, meaning you’ll see a Gulf of Mexico habitat showcasing King Midas, a giant sea turtle that survived Hurricane Katrina; three species of sharks; the Great Maya Reef, which focuses on South America and features lobsters and tropical fish; and the second-level Amazon Rainforest, which houses birds and snakes.

FREE STUFF If you want to stick to the budget, there are plenty of free attractions around NOLA. Woldenberg Riverfront Park, an ANI park, is “the front porch to the French Quarter,” says Smith, offering green space, walking paths, artwork and more.

It’s also a great spot to watch one of the busiest ports in the world. The kids will get a kick out of seeing the barges, ferries and boats scurrying across the Mississippi. Plus, around 10:45 a.m. and 1:45 p.m. (on most days) you can see the Steamboat Natchez – an authentic stern wheel steamboat known for its jazz cruises – and hear its steam calliope (pipe organ) concerts.

Woldenberg Riverfront Park butts up to the French Market, where you can haggle for items at the flea market, shop the retail stores, sample a praline, explore local cuisine or visit the farmers market on Saturdays.

Photos provided

First-timer to the city?

Try a VIP City Tour, which travels through parts of the French Quarter, city parks, the Garden District and past other notable landmarks – all on an air-conditioned bus.

New Orleans

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Café Beignet serves up morning specialties with a side of live jazz music starting at 8 a.m. Musical Legends Park sits right in front of the cafe’s Bourbon Street location, so – after breakfast – it might be a good time to let the kids walk the infamous street without having to worry what their little eyes might see.

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Southern charm Scenic winding roads, quaint towns, state parks and wineries make Southern Illinois a great weekend escape

By KELSEY O’CONNOR

It may be in the same state, but it feels like a whole new world.

An abundance of outdoor activities and unique attractions make Southern Illinois perfect for a weekend away. Visitors can hike, bike or drive along the winding roads that connect quaint towns, state parks, wineries and miles of breathtaking natural scenery.

Cory M. Jobe, director of the Illinois Office of Tourism, says that the area boasts some of the best outdoor recreation in the state.

“You can spend a week in Southern Illinois and get lost in all the amazing things there are to do there,” he says.

The southern part of the state also is home to award-winning wineries, artisans and other unique experiences.

From must-see sites to hidden gems, here are Jobe’s top picks of things to do in the southern part of the state.

20 | MARCH 2017 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

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p SHAWNEE NATIONAL FOREST If you drive south to Route 13, you’ll begin to see something you may not have seen for miles: hills. This change in landscape means that you’ve almost reached Shawnee National Forest, which is comprised of approximately 286,000 acres of land nestled in the southern tip of Illinois.

The forest’s natural diversity, coupled with an array of activities, makes it one of best forest preserves in the state, says Jobe.

The forest offers six natural ecological regions, resulting in an incredible assortment of plants, animals and geological features. In a single day, visitors can explore forests, wetlands, lakes, creeks and bluffs, and view rare wildflowers and towering cypresses.

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with showers and electricity. There are several Within Shawnee National Forest, visitors can hike and bike along more than 400 miles of trails. camping areas dispersed throughout the forest.

Lake Glendale Recreation Area is centrally The area also is perfect for horseback riding. located, which makes it easy to visit all of the Jobe recommends Rim Rock recreational trail, area’s main attractions. where hikers and equestrians are greeted

If you’re up for the challenge, you’ll be rewarded with an up-close look at some of the state’s most stunning scenery.

by moss-covered rock walls and paths that meander through canyons.

¢ TUNNEL HILL STATE TRAIL

Also, several areas exist within the forest where visitors can fish, swim and boat.

The 47.8 miles of Tunnel Hill State Trail aren’t always easy, but they’re always worth it.

While the area draws visitors for its natural wonders, “Shawnee is really known for its wineries,” says Jobe.

Thrill-seekers may be drawn to the Shawnee Bluffs Canopy Tour, a zip line tour that sends guests flying high above the ground through bluffs and valleys. Don’t let the adventure stop there; head to the scenic Jackson Falls for rock climbing.

The trail, which stretches from Harrisburg to Kamak, follows the path of a former railroad. The route takes bikers back in time as they pedal through abandoned train tunnels, picturesque trestles and the occasional ghost town. The ever-changing landscape includes ravines, rocky streams and reclaimed strip mines.

The Shawnee National Forest offers a variety of camping options that range from rustic sites for backpackers to more developed campgrounds

Bikers along the crushed gravel trail will experience extended inclines and dark tunnels.

¢ SHAWNEE HILLS WINE TRAIL

Blue Sky Vineyard is a must-stop for wine buffs.

Housed in an ornate, Italian-style villa, the winery offers regional wines that reflect the distinct attributes of southern Illinois. Stop in for a tasting or enjoy a bottle on the outdoor terrace with sweeping views of the rolling countryside.

Not a wine drinker? No problem.

“There are some fantastic microbreweries in the area,” says Jobe, who considers Scratch Brewing Company in Ava one of his favorites.

-Continiued on page 22 www.nwherald.com/magazine

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MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | MARCH 2017 | 21

“You can spend a week in Southern Illinois and get lost in all the amazing things there are to do there.”

– Cory M. Jobe, director of the Illinois Office of Tourism

hikers of all ability levels. Make sure to see Camel Rock, Anvil Rock and Devil’s Smoke Stack.

The park is open year-round, and there are campsites and picnic areas nearby.

¢ MAKANDA Makanda is the perfect stop after a morning spent exploring nearby Giant City State Park.

The tiny artists colony is a quiet but thriving hub of cultural activity. Visit the historic boardwalk to peruse the galleries and craft shops of local artisans.

This year, Makanda is hosting special events to celebrate the solar eclipse. The city will be the perfect spot to view the rare cosmic event on Aug. 21, and the occasion will be marked with festivals and parties.

-Continued from page 21

p MERMET SPRINGS

The farmhouse brewery offers a changing selection of small-batch beers made from foraged local ingredients, such as nettle, dandelion, maple sap and mushrooms.

This spring-fed stone quarry in Belknap is an ideal spot for scuba diving. The quarry is 120-feet deep and covers about 8.5 acres. Divers can explore a submerged airplane – used in the film “U.S. Marshalls” – a school bus, a semitrailer truck and a cement petting zoo. You’ll also get up close and personal with paddlefish, one of p GIANT CITY STATE PARK the largest freshwater fish. On-site training and Get a taste of the best of Southern Illinois equipment rentals are available. wilderness at Giant City State Park. The area ¢ GARDEN OF THE GODS has a striking combination of soaring sandstone The spectacular rock formations of Garden of the bluffs and lush greenery. Visitors can marvel Gods began forming more than 300 million years as they walk between the sheer, stone walls of ago. Hikers can explore the dramatic landscape the “Giant City Streets.” Extend your visit by that includes towering sandstone pillars and spending the night at the rustic Giant City Lodge, scenic bluff overlooks. which features three types of cabins and an “The views are just amazing,” says Jobe. “There’s outdoor swimming pool.

¢ CACHE RIVER STATE NATURAL AREA These vast wetlands are situated in a floodplain created long ago by glacial floodwater. Today, the area offers a variety of recreational opportunities, such as hiking, biking, canoeing and fishing. The Cache River is home to a diverse collection of wildlife, including more than 100 endangered or threatened species.

Spend an unforgettable afternoon paddling through the area by canoe or kayak. White Crane Canoe and Pirogue Rentals offers tours that paddle through groves of massive, thousandyear-old cypress trees.

“It’s something people probably don’t know about, and it’s unbelievable,” says Jobe.

22 | MARCH 2017 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

great hiking, and the rock formations you’ll see are incredible.”

The park covers more than 3,300 acres and features 5.5 miles of interconnecting trails for

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MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | MARCH 2017 | 23

Adventures in

Airbnb-ing FROM L.A. TO SHANGHAI:

A travelogue on homestays around the world Story and photos by KARA SILVA A cabin in the woods, a Pied-à-terre in Paris, a Yurt in Malibu or a villa in Tuscany – at Airbnb, there is no shortage of distinctive overnight accommodation options. A popular alternative to a hotel, Airbnb allows a community of hosts in 191 countries and 65,000 cities to rent out a room, guesthouse or their entire home for a night, week or month. Even though Airbnb has served more than 150 million total guests since it was founded in 2008, some travelers still harbor a bit of trepidation about staying in a stranger's home (naturally).

Having stayed in several Airbnb homestays all over the world – from an authentic Khmer guesthouse in Cambodia to a contemporary home overlooking the Hollywood hills in L.A. – I have become Airbnb-obsessed, but every experience is not without its qualms. Here is a rundown of six of my experiences – the pros, the cons, the perks and personal moments.

(Star ratings are taken from airbnb.com.)

Traditional Khmer Homestay

Hollywood Hills Home

SIEM REAP, CAMBODIA ê ê ê ê ê TYPE: Homestay NIGHTS STAYED: 2 PRICE: $25 per night (+$6 service fee) PROS: Entire top floor of family’s home; free airport pickup; personal tuktuk driver (at additional cost) CONS: No A/C; large critter got in room; mediocre bathroom

L.A., CALIFORNIA ê ê ê ê 1/2 TYPE: Homestay (Top floor of house) NIGHTS STAYED: 1 PRICE: $74 per night (+$15 cleaning fee and $11 service fee) PROS: VIEWS! Clean; modern; updated; great suggestions from host on what to do in the city CONS: Host was at the house the entire day; home was removed from major attractions

OVERALL: The family who hosted us allowed us to check in at an ungodly hour (7:30 a.m.) even though check-in wasn’t technically until noon (no extra charge). The host, Vuthy, a local woodworker, offered us tea upon arrival, as well as the use of a personal tuk-tuk (taxi) driver for the duration of our stay.

Before checking out, Vuthy surprised us with a six-pack of Angkor beer. Over a few beers, we chatted with him about our cultural differences and similarities.

The only hiccup during our stay was that we found a large gecko in our room.

24 | MARCH 2017 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

OVERALL: This contemporary bachelor pad was perched on a hill in L.A. Boasting a beautiful updated kitchen, dark wood floors, a fireplace, pool table and balcony with sweeping views. We spent nearly the entirety of our stay on that balcony. The top floor of the home, where we stayed, was fit with its own T.V. room/office, mini fridge and complimentary beverages.

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Photo provided

Surf Cottage

Condo City-scapes

ULUWATU/PADANG, BALI ê ê ê ê ê TYPE: Villa compound (four units) NIGHTS STAYED: 4 nights PRICE: $78 per night (+$38 service fee) PROS: A/C, kitchen, infinity pool, private rooftop terrace, privacy, easy access to scooter rental CONS: Extremely difficult to find; spiderwebs in room; linens need replacing; scooter rental a necessity; personnel, though attentive, were not always readily available

SHANGHAI, CHINA ê ê ê ê ê TYPE: Homestay: room rental in high-rise condo NIGHTS STAYED: 1 PRICE: $66 per night (+8 service fee) PROS: The views (from the balcony, bedroom and bathroom); luxury apartment building; location; high-end features CONS: Difficult to find; too many directions to access condo; not enough instruction upon arrival (couldn't figure out how to use the toilet); host's Lego collection took over the space

OVERALL: The Surf Cottage is an independent, private dwelling that was part of a large villa (owned by an artist) on a two-acre property overlooking the ocean. The property had a gorgeous infinity pool, as well as multiple thatch-covered lounge areas. A public phone for ordering takeout. Scooters were provided at $6 a day – no fuss. The rustic cottage had a kitchen, huge bathroom, four-poster bed, private front porch and rooftop terrace with views of the countryside. I spent most of my time on the terrace watching the sun rise, practicing yoga, drinking my morning coffee and watching thunderstorms. Absolutely would stay here again!

OVERALL: During a 22-hour layover in China, I rented a room in this highrise condo because of the amazing views – the shower even had views.

We enjoyed sipping beers on the balcony that overlooked the beautiful Bund skyline. We stayed in the Japanese tatami-style bedroom with a super-ceiling bay window, which boasted more great views. The condo had marble heated floors and high-end fixtures. The host allowed me leave my bags in his living room after check out the following day, so that I could explore the city unencumbered.

Photo provided

Photo provided

Tranquility in the Rice Fields

Neighborhood Studio

UBUD, BALI ê ê ê ê 1/2 TYPE: Balinese villa rental NIGHTS STAYED: 3 PRICE: $89 per night (+$21 cleaning fee; $35 service fee) PROS: Plunge pool; lush foliage and wildlife; lotus/koi pond moat; indoor/ outdoor living (two living rooms and bathroom – all outdoors); layout of home; privacy CONS: No A/C; difficult to find; higher price; ant problem

SHANGHAI, CHINA ê ê ê ê 1/2 TYPE: Studio-apartment rental (in a neighborhood) NIGHTS STAYED: 1 PRICE: $46 per night (+$10 cleaning fee; $7 service fee) PROS: Great neighborhood location; cute décor; unique layout CONS: Small; difficult to find; language barrier with host

OVERALL: After staying in this private Balinese hideaway, I started to wish that I actually lived there, and even hope to one day build a house of my own just like it. It had 13 coconut trees (one in the bathroom); the plunge pool was heavenly; and the property was peaceful with plenty of nooks to relax. It was my favorite Airbnb experience yet.

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OVERALL: Space is hard to come by in Shanghai, so I rented a newlyrenovated studio apartment that retained the character of a typical Shanghai studio. The location was unbeatable. It was in the heart of the old French Concession neighborhood, near Tianzifang Square (10 minute walk). However, some difficulty arose because our host didn't speak English and used a translator to communicate. Also, the building was impossible to find without the help of our host.

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MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | MARCH 2017 | 25

Get your kitsch on

ROUTE 66

By KELSEY O’CONNOR

Route 66 is affectionately known as the “Mother Road,” and it also happens to be the mother of all road trips.

The roadway, which was completed in 1926, stretches across the country from the Midwest to the West Coast. Though the route typically can’t be found on modern maps, it doesn’t deter drivers from all over the world from taking what is largely considered the quintessential American road trip.

Route 66 kicks off in Illinois, beginning in downtown Chicago and running 300 miles across the state. The journey takes road-trippers through charming small towns and past enough historic sites and delightfully-weird roadside attractions to quickly fill your Instagram feed.

“I think what’s so iconic about Route 66 is the history and the entrepreneurship that occurs,” says Cory M. Jobe, director of the Illinois Office of Tourism.

“It’s all about mom-and-pop restaurants and shops that bring people together.”

Here are several road-trip worthy stops along the legendary Route 66:

Joliet

Kick off your trip with a little bit of history. The Joliet Area Historic Museum focuses on the rich history of the Joliet area. The main gallery features interactive exhibits, such as a Route 66-inspired drive-in theater. Nearby is the Rialto Theatre, a historic vaudeville movie theater listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

For lunch, take your pick of two renowned eateries. On the way into town, you’ll pass Dell Rhea’s Chicken Basket in Willowbrook, which has been serving up legendary fried chicken since 1946. On the way out, you’ll pass right by the legendary Polk-a-Dot Drive In where you can grab a bite to eat and check out the plethora of memorabilia.

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Pontiac

“Pontiac has really embraced its history,” says Jobe. “It’s just a neat little town; it’s a must stop.”

Check out some of that history at the Illinois Route 66 Hall of Fame and Museum, which displays an impressive collection of Mother Road artifacts. Classic car buffs will love the PontiacOakland Automobile Museum.

Before you go, traverse one of three historic swinging bridges over the Vermillion River and make sure to snap a photo in front of the colorful Route 66 murals.

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Springfield

A road trip through the Land of Lincoln isn’t complete without a stop in Springfield.

“You get a taste of both iconic Route 66 history and presidential history,” says Jobe.

Learn all about honest Abe at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum. At night, catch a double feature at the restored Route 66 Drive-In (opens in April). Swing by the classic Cozy Dog Drive-In, home of the “corn dog on a stick.” As you leave Springfield, keep an eye out for the stretch of hand-laid brick in Auburn that was part of the original Route 66.

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ROUTE 66 PHOTO CHECKLIST The Illinois stretch of Route 66 is full of fun, kitschy attractions where you can snap Instagramworthy shots. See if you can spot any of these funky, roadside photo opportunities: q GEMINI GIANT, WILMINGTON q PAUL BUNYON HOT DOG STATUE, ATLANTA q ABE RAIL SPLITTER STATUE, SPRINGFIELD q LAUTERBACH MUFFLER MAN, SPRINGFIELD q LIVINGSTON MUFFLER MAN, LIVINGSTON q WORLD’S LARGEST BOTTLE OF CATSUP, COLLINSVILLE q WORLD’S LARGEST COVERED WAGON, LINCOLN q HENRY’S RABBIT RANCH, STAUNTON

Atlanta

You won’t want to miss charming downtown Atlanta. Check out the historic (and octagon-shaped) Atlanta Public Library and Museum, then grab some quarters and head to the Route 66 Arcade Museum to play a few vintage games. The revitalized Palms Grill Café, well known during the heyday of Route 66, serves up award-winning slices of pie with a side of nostalgia.

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Crystal Lake Central High School

BANK OWNED WATERFRONT! Incredibly unique location on a wide, deep channel to the Fox River and yet merely steps to what downtown McHenry has to offer! Solid brick ranch with beautiful hardwood floors, 3 bedrooms, 1½ bathrooms and a 2 car heated garage. Close enough to walk to the rejuvenated Green Street corridor! Bank Owned property.

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MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | MARCH 2017 | 27

Ride the rails Scenic train trips through rugged America By ALLISON HORNE

The U.S. is known for its sprawling plains and beautiful rugged mountain terrain, and there’s no better way to take it all in than on a carefree trip along some of the continent’s most scenic railways.

Railroads have been in the U.S. since the 19th century and, although they originally helped settle the west and aided in America’s industrial revolution, they also allow travelers and families to discover the vast sweeping beauty of the North American landscape.

From the Great Lakes and Adirondacks to the Rocky Mountains and California coast, here are six train trips – many of which depart from Chicago – to consider for your next big American adventure.

¢ AUTUMN IN THE ADIRONDACKS This train trip is all about enjoying the scenery as the leaves start to change in the Adirondacks.

Jump on board the Lake Shore Limited for a seven-day trip that cruises from Union Station to Lake Placid, Fort Ticonderoga, Utica, Raquette Lake and more.

Noted as one of the most scenic train trips in the world, this fall adventure is one not to be missed.

The trip departs Saturday, Sept. 30, from Union Station. Trips start at $1,995 and include four nights in a hotel, food, and sightseeing options. p ALBUQUERQUE BALLOON FESTIVAL p SIX NATIONAL TREASURES For more information about this package, visit For anyone interested in a quirky yet familyFrom canyons to towering mountains, this americabyrail.com. friendly adventure, this once-a-year trip takes train trip encapsulates all of the beauty North ¢ CALIFORNIA ZEPHYR guests from Chicago’s Union Station to the America has to offer. The 15-day trip departs For those who would rather not have a set Albuquerque Balloon Festival. The 10-day tour, from Chicago aboard the Empire Builder, and itinerary or simply want to travel across the which takes off on Sunday, Oct. 1, aboard the spans 1,620 miles across some of the most country and see the sights, the California California Zephyr, includes 15 meals during the scenic spots in the country. Stops include some Zephyr provides the perfect opportunity. It runs trip, seven nights of hotel accommodations, of America’s most beloved national parks, daily from Chicago to San Francisco. The trip and admission to all attractions along the way. including Zion, Bryce Canyon, Yellowstone, Grand travels through the plains of Nebraska and the Main stops include Grand Junction and Durango Teton and Glacier National Parks. Pricing starts mountains of Colorado to Salt Lake City, before (an old mining town), Santa Fe and, finally, at $3,695 and includes 25 meals, 12 nights of hitting Sacramento and San Francisco. A few the scenic Albuquerque International Balloon hotel accommodations, and sightseeing at all of the highlights include the Rocky Mountains, Festival. Prices start at $2,795 with additional of the stops. There are several departure dates the Sierra Nevada, Moffat Tunnel, Winter Park, fees for upgrades or bedrooms aboard the to choose from in June, July and August. Visit Donner Lake and San Pablo Bay. For a full list of train. Additional details can be found by visiting americabyrail.com for further information on prices and availability, visit Amtrak.com. americabyrail.com. booking a trip.

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Kicking Horse Pass, BC. First Passage to the West route.

t THE ROCKY MOUNTAINEER (Canada) This adventure is for mountain lovers and adventure seekers. The Rocky Mountaineer Train, which departs from Seattle, makes various stops in the Canadian Rockies. Trips can range in length from five to 12 days, and are priced at $2,300 and up. Amenities include all food, hotel stays and stops at the legendary Vancouver Lookout, Lake Louise (a must-see) and the rest of Banff Park. A valid passport is required for this trip. For further information on packages and deals, visit rockymountaineer. com or call 877-460-3200.

p GREAT LAKES FAMILY ADVENTURE Calling all families with young children!

Embark on a five-day family adventure that ventures around the Great Lakes and includes stops in the Wisconsin Dells; Holland, Michigan; and at the USS Silversides Submarine Museum in Muskegon, Michigan.

The trip departs from Chicago on Friday, Aug. 3. Pricing begins at $1,895 and includes four meals, four nights of first-class hotel stays, admission to all of the attractions and much more. For more information about this package, visit americabyrail.com.

Photo by Rocky Mountaineer

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“Some people come to explore Big Sur and other people never leave the property.”

A BOHEMIAN – Donna Heckert, manager of guest relations and reservations at Treebones Resort in Big Sur, California

RETREAT CONTINUE CALIFORNIA DREAMIN’ IN THE YURTS OF BIG SUR

By KELSEY O’CONNOR

Big Sur is known around the world for its stunning geography and breathtaking ocean vistas. The rugged stretch of California coast is relatively undeveloped and lightly populated, making it the ultimate location for a secluded getaway. And there’s no better place to do that than Treebones Resort.

Treebones Resort bills itself as a premier “glamping” experience in Big Sur. The oneof-a-king resort blends the outdoor camping experience with modern amenities. Visitors can get up close and personal with the natural beauty of the area, while staying in an unforgettable accommodation.

“It’s luxury camping,” says Donna Heckert, manager of guest relations and reservations.

30 | MARCH 2017 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

“We have amazing ocean views; we’re on a bluff overlooking the ocean. It’s just a beautiful place to come and relax and enjoy the peace and nature.”

size beds or partial ocean views with queen-size beds.

Guests at Treebones can choose from a variety of lodging options inspired by indigenous structures. A popular choice is a yurt – a circular tent on a collapsible framework. These spacious structures offer either full ocean views with king-

Heckert.

The yurts also include a small table and chairs, electric lighting, a heat source and a sink with running water. The French doors open up to The resort opened in 2004, but the story of a large redwood deck with Adirondack chairs Treebones began long before that. John and Corinne Handy bought the 10-acre parcel of land where guests can relax and watch the sun set more than 30 years ago, with a dream of sharing over the ocean. Showers and restrooms are just it with others while also having a minimal impact a short walk away. on the environment. The couple now lives and “You have the feel of a tent but you’ve got the works on-site with their four children. comforts and conveniences of a cabin,” says

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Most yurts accommodate two people, but there are two “family yurts” that can fit up to six guests.

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The newest option at Treebones is the autonomous tent. The cocoon-shaped structure is secluded on the edge of the resort, and it includes a fire pit and private deck. Inside the tent, guests can enjoy 500-square feet of space, which includes a king-size bed, gas fireplace and a private bathroom.

restaurant, sushi bar with ocean views, pool, hot tub, weekly outdoor yoga and a massage studio with a licensed massage therapist.

There also are campsites available for guests looking to “rough it” and bring their own tents.

One campsite includes a “human nest,” a woodwoven nest created by a local artist. The nest requires guests to bring their own sleeping bags and gear, and it offers one of the best views at the resort.

“Some people come to explore Big Sur and other people never leave the property,” says Heckert.

All guests can enjoy the many amenities that Treebones offers. There’s a farm-to-table www.nwherald.com/magazine

Guests also can opt for a variety of guided ecoadventures that include hiking and kayaking.

Many notable attractions, such as Hearst Castle and Pfeiffer Beach, are a short drive away.

One of the goals of the resort is to offer guests a place for complete tranquility. This means that the oceanside retreat doesn’t offer group bookings and only allows children over age 6.

This limits disruptions and helps maintain the peaceful ambiance of the resort.

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Treebones Resort recommends booking accommodations at least six months in advance.

For more information or to make a reservation, visit treebonesresort.com or call 877-424-4787.

¢ TREEBONES RESORT 71895 Highway 1 South Big Sur, California www.treebonesresort.com 877-424-4787

MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | MARCH 2017 | 31

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H OME

McHenry County Magazine

resource guide

Find contacts for top home professionals in interior design, kitchen design, construction, and many other home-related fields.

Whether you are a new or established home owner, you will find places and products of interest in this monthly guide!

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For a home or workplace that is beautiful, functional and inspired, call Randi Goodman, IFDA, “designer extraordinaire.” Now is a great time to spruce up your space. Randi makes the best use of furnishings and accessories you already have. She can suggest additional pieces, or start from scratch. The choice is yours! Custom or ready made, she can do it all! Call today for a personal consultation.

Kitchen Design KITCHENS BY JULIE, INC., 27-A Janus Rd., Cary, 847-516-2226, www.kitchensbyjulie.com

Located in Downtown Cary, Kitchens by Julie is a family owned and operated organization that has extensive experience in all aspects of remodeling and construction. “Every successful project is a unique reflection of personal tastes, functions, lifestyle, budget and dreams,” says principal designer, Julie Loehner, CKD who operates Kitchens by Julie with her husband and project manager, Mark Loehner. Our goal is to create a wonderful experience designing and building your dream from conception to completion.

To have your business included in this guide, contact your representative at 815-459-4040.

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MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | MARCH 2017 | 33

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Are You An

Artist?

See your work in the pages of McHenry County Magazine!

To submit an entry to Artist Showcase email artwork, title of piece, name and village of residence of artist, a two-to three-sentence description of the piece, short bio and artist photo to McHenryCountyMagazine@shawmedia.com, subject head “Local Artist Submission.”

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7/25/16 11:36 AM

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WANDER WOMEN

THE RISE OF GIRLS TRIPS AND SOLO TRAVEL By CHRIS WALKER

It takes guts to travel.

Especially when traveling to mysterious destinations that are thousands of miles away from home. It’s even gutsier to travel alone, and, possibly, even more so if you happen to be female.

According to Lonely Planet, the rise of solo travel will continue this year. In a survey, 51 percent of respondents said that they will be taking their next holiday solo, according to www. bookyogaretreats.com – which has seen a large amount of traffic to its women-only retreats.

Gutsy Women Travel, a leader in the travel industry in hosting an assortment of fullyescorted trips all over the world, provides a helping hand to like-minded women seeking adventure and trips catered to women.

“There is a gutsy woman inside each of us; one who occasionally needs to make time for herself to refresh and renew her mind, spirit and body,” it states on the travel company’s website, gutsywomentravel.com.

Gutsy Women Travel offers a variety of trips to Africa, Asia and the South Pacific, Europe and Latin America. Some of the trips offered this summer include Machu Picchu and the Galapagos (15 days); Safari Serengeti: Tanzania Lodge and Tented Safari (12 days); and a Grand Baltic Sea Voyage (13 days), to name a few.

Darrellynn Hanes, a 30-year-old McHenry resident, has served countless curious travelers www.nwherald.com/magazine

for 17 years at Worldwide Traveler in McHenry.

As someone possessing a lengthy list of places she has visited, Hanes shares a great deal of knowledge on group travel, catering trips to women looking to have a good time together.

“From what I’ve seen, it’s definitely been more common for friends and family to travel together as a group and to enjoy the experience,” says Hanes. “I’m sure some have been doing it, but I haven’t heard much from women looking to travel solo. We’ve had some bachelorette-type trips, and things like that, and I’m happy to help them so that their trip is a safe and secure one.”

One trip, in particular, that has garnered a lot of interest is the Inca Trail in Peru.

“We’ve had more inquiries for that in recent years, and Costa Rica is also a popular one,” Hanes says. “There’s a lot of details involved in these kind of trips, so we’ve been happy to see people seeking us out for assistance so they get the most out of their vacation time and dollars.”

WORLDWIDE TRAVELER IN MCHENRY 1142 N. Green St., McHenry 815-385-6900 worldwidetraveler.net GUTSY WOMEN TRAVEL 866-464-8879 www.gutsywomentravel.com GENEVA TRAVEL AND CRUISE 312 W. State St., No. 111, Geneva 630-845-8999 www.genevatravelcruise.com

“…It does seem like it’s something many are looking to do,” she says.

Guided tours are another way for women to enjoy travel on their own, because it is easier to make friends with the group members with whom you are traveling.

“With the tour guides and others along to help, it’s not like you’re really traveling on your own,” says Henderson.

Terri Henderson, owner of Geneva Travel and Cruise, says that she has seen more women traveling, some of whom are choosing to go solo, Whether you want your next trip be a girlfriends getaway or a solo adventure, there are more but hasn’t come across many trips specifically reasons why you should go then why you geared just for women. shouldn’t.

A river cruise can be a great way for women to “People shouldn’t be held back from seeing get their feet wet with solo travel or for women something they want to see. So, if they want to traveling in small groups, says Henderson, who travel, they should do it,” Henderson says. recently booked an Asian cruise vacation for a solo female traveler.

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MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | MARCH 2017 | 35

COMMUNITY LIAISON

Susan Ling serves as teacher, advocate for families dealing with mental illness

By MELISSA RUBALCABA RISKE | Photo by FROM ME 2 YOU PHOTOGRAPHY For more than 15 years, Susan Ling has served as a guide for families looking for resources to assist with mental health-related needs.

faced when she was a child. With a diagnosis, she was then able to begin the process of managing her ADHD.

“If I don’t know the answer personally, I know who to ask,” Ling says.

Ling is an advocate of those facing mental health issues. When one of her children battled severe depression, Ling sought help and was not afraid to speak out about the issue, often sharing her own family story.

Through the years, her work – both paid and volunteer – has become a personal mission for Ling as she strives to help families facing challenges and crisis.

“I’ve had parents say to me, ‘Thank you. You saved our child’s life because of what you taught us,’” Ling says.

Ling didn’t set out to become a teacher or an advocate; she and her husband, Dave, were busy parents working and raising their six children in Crystal Lake. When their children faced physical and mental health issues, the family responded by seeking help and looking for resources within the community. As Ling sought help for her family, she found herself relating to others facing similar issues and struggles.

Friend Elizabeth Gross, who worked with Ling as a volunteer for the National Alliance on Mental Illness in McHenry County, says that it was Ling’s ability to relate to others and share her own personal stories and struggles that made her a valuable means of support for families in the community.

“She’s brought her own personal story and [has] been there ready to help other parents and families,” Gross says. “It’s so important for families to know they’re not alone.”

On the road to helping her children, Ling went through her own transformation. At the age of 42, she was diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and was finally able to come to terms with the struggles that she had

“With mental health, it’s not like a physical illness and people can feel ashamed but she’s brought it out in the open,” Gross says. “She cares a lot about working for people to have answers, so she’s not hiding or sweeping it under the carpet.”

In 2002, the McHenry County Mental Health Board asked Ling to become a parent liaison for the county and help families navigate the many agencies that provide care for children and teenagers.

“For me, it was passing it forward,” Ling says.

“For me, it was very hard to accept kindness from other people, but the only way I could do it was to say I’m going to pay it forward someday.”

Ling attended classes and training in dealing with and understanding mental health issues.

In 2006, she was hired as a family resource developer by the Options and Advocacy agency; and, in 2007, she became a family consumer specialist for the Illinois Department of Human Services in the mental health/child and adolescent services department. Her expanded roles have allowed her to bring more educational programs to the county.

Ling has volunteered with NAMI of McHenry County and became the program director in 2010, which introduced more classes and support groups to families and individuals

affected by mental illness. Ling also has strived to respond to the changing community needs.

When teen suicide rates began to rise, Ling organized a meeting through NAMI to present a film and panel discussion to help families recognize signs and to understand the support and resources available to help.

More recently, Ling has changed course. She is using her knowledge and experience to develop a new nonprofit where she can continue to be a resource for the community.

“I could have retired, but I’m very passionate about helping people to better their lives,” Ling says. “It’s something I enjoy doing.”

2016 Sponsors

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BUSINESS & CIVIC

MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | MARCH 2017 | 37

Retirement Planning

815-459-6800 Crystal Lake - Vernon Hills

doriongray.com

Professional Guidance Personal Attention Financial Clarity

Securities offered through Securities America, Inc. member FINRA/SIPC. Advisory services are offered through Securities America Advisors, Inc. Dorion-Gray Retirement Planning, Inc. located at 2602 IL Route 176, Crystal Lake, IL 60014-2225 and 977 Lakeview Parkway, Suite 150, Vernon Hills, IL 60061-1476. Dorion-Gray is not affiliated with Securities America companies.

Retirement talk Simplifying required minimum distributions

By PATTY LORIS Retirees are not allowed to keep non-taxable money in their retirement accounts indefinitely.

What does this mean? Generally, when you reach the age of 70 (and a half), the IRS requires you to withdraw money from your IRA, Simple IRA, SEP IRA, 401K, 403B or other retirement plans. The required minimum distribution is the minimum amount you must withdraw on an annual basis.

Your RMD is calculated based on your age and the IRS Uniform Lifetime Table, which calculates your life expectancy. To determine your RMD, you must take the value of your retirement account as of Dec. 31 of the previous year. For example, if your account value, as of Dec. 31, 2016, was $100,000, and you are now 71, the Uniform Lifetime Table calculates your life expectancy as 26.5. Therefore, your RMD calculation would be ($100,000 divided by 26.5) approximately $3,773.58.

Keep in mind, you can withdraw more than your RMD from your retirement accounts at any time. However, it is important to note that all withdrawals will be included as taxable income in the year of the withdrawal.

IRS Rules state an RMD must be calculated separately for each of your retirement accounts.

Once the RMD of each account has been calculated, you can add your RMD’s together and withdraw the total from one or two accounts as long as all accounts are similar retirement accounts.

Similar retirement accounts are defined as: IRA: Traditional IRA, Rollover IRA, SEP IRA, Simple IRA 403(b) – if there is more than one 403(b), you can add them together with your RMD

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THIS DIAGRAM WILL HELP YOU UNDERSTAND HOW AN RMD WORKS: REQUIRED MINIMUM DISTRIBUTION

Account

Account Value RMD Scheduled 12/31/16 per account Distributions

CLIENT:

Mary Smith

IRA 1

$200,000

$7,547.17

DATE OF BIRTH:

02/14/1946

SEP IRA 2

$185,000

$6,981.13

AGE in 2017:

71

IRA 3

$50,000

$1,886.79

*DIVISOR:

26.5

403B

$200,000

$7,547.17

$7,547.17

Totals

$585,000

$23,996.26

$23,962.26

$16,415.09

*Divisor taken from the Uniform Lifetime Table.

u Patty Loris, MBA, CFP, Wealth Advisor at Dorion-Gray Retirement Planning, Inc., located at 2602 Calculating and taking your RMD correctly on an Route 176, Crystal annual basis is very important. If a distribution Lake. Securities is taken from the wrong type of account or if you offered through totally missed taking your RMD, the IRS penalties Securities America, will cost you 50% of the amountnot taken.

Inc. Member FINRA/ So in our example, if a client took the RMD for SIPC. Advisory the Roth 403B from one of the IRA accounts services offered through Securities America instead of the 403B account, the IRS will state Advisors, Inc. Dorion-Gray is not affiliated with the client missed the RMD from the Roth Securities America companies. Consult legal 403(b) and will be charged 50% or $3,773.59 in or tax professionals for specific information penalties. regarding your individual situation. The opinions Typically, if a RMD calculation mistake is caught, expressed and material provided are for general information and should not be considered a the client can often rectify the situation. The solicitation for the purchase or sale of any client would first take the missed 403(b) RMD and then file Form 5329 to request relief from the security.

IRS. If the client can show reasonable cause for the mistake, there is a good chance the IRS will waive the 50-percent penalty.

Employer plans, such as a 401K, 457(b) or other employer plans, must calculate the RMD for each individual plan and your RMD must be withdrawn from that plan only.

If RMDs still have you mystified, don’t worry!

That’s what retirement planning advisors are here for.

BUSINESS & CIVIC

MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | MARCH 2017 | 39

SPEED. STYLE. AGILITY.

The 2017 Cadillac ATS sedan encourages drivers to enjoy the journey.

B

uilt for dynamic drivers, the 2017 Cadillac ATS Sedan commands attention with its race-inspired features, advanced technology and refined interior. An aerodynamic design, and balance of power and control allow the ATS driving experience to blur the line between road and race track.

Featuring elegance from every angle, the ATS interior is crafted from luxurious leather and fit with beautiful wooden details.

The ATS has a 3.6L V6 engine, delivering 335-hp, and its light frame – making the ATS one of the lightest vehicles in its segment – ensures both a smooth and powerful ride.

As smart as it is powerful, passengers can stream, browse and stay connected to the Internet while using OnStar with 4G LTE and a built-in Wi-Fi hotspot.

Boasting style and performance, the 2017 Cadillac ATS sedan encourages drivers to enjoy the journey.

• Check out Gary Lang Auto Group for a 2017 Cadillac ATS AWD (stock No. 170077).

With an MSRP of $40,085, you can lease the vehicle for $279 per month for 39 months, or 10,000 miles per year with $3,000 down (plus tax and title license doc).

Gary Lang Auto Group provides more than 30 years of automotive experience with friendly, knowledgeable, low-pressure sales associates.

With over 1,000 new and used vechicles to choose from and seven new car brands across 22 acres, Gary Lang also features financing options for all budgets and credit ratings.

See what the Gary Lang Auto Group can do for you with a test drive today!

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www.garylangauto.com 42 | MARCH 2017 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

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HOPPS

ON THE ROAD WILD AND WONDERFUL BREWERIES WORTHY OF THE TRIP Story and photo by PAUL SCHNEIDER

T

here’s something about wild beers and wild places that just demand that you put them together.

As a brewer with Solemn Oath Brewery in Naperville – and an adventure lover – that’s how I like to plan my vacations.

These seven breweries will take you from the sea to the mountains in the Pacific Northwest; surround you with “fourteeners” (mountains with an elevation of at least 14,000 feet) in Colorado; send you mountain biking in the Blue Ridge Mountains; and even steer you toward some hidden gems in the Midwest.

44 | MARCH 2017 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

Here are four road trips to enjoy wild and wonderful breweries and the great outdoors:

The Pacific Northwest DE GARDE BREWING 6000 Blimp Blvd., Tillamook, Oregon 503-815-1635 | www.degardebrewing.com The beer at De Garde is as wild as the Oregon coast – quite literally. All of De Garde’s beers are spontaneously fermented, using only the naturally occurring yeast and bacteria in the air.

Try half-pours of their funky, tart beers – many made with Pacific Northwest fruit.

While you’re there: Head out to Cape Lookout State Park in the late afternoon and hike to the end of the cape for an awe-inspiring sunset with sweeping ocean views and a chance to see gray whales on their yearly migration. Return by headlamp.

PFRIEM FAMILY BREWERS 707 Portway Ave., No. 101, Hood River, Oregon 541-321-0490 | www.pfriembeer.com Head inland and find a world-class Belgianinspired brewery perched deep within the Columbia River Gorge in Hood River. Go kitesurfing or take a stand-up paddleboard out on the river during the day (rentals and lessons

DINING & ENTERTAINING

abound in town), then hit the brewery patio for the Frambozen – a lambic-inspired beer made with fresh raspberries; pair it with the pastrami burger.

While you’re there: On the way back to Portland, put in 12 miles (out-and-back) on the Eagle Creek Trail. You’ll hike through lush moss and fern-filled temperate rainforest and end up at 175-foot-tall Tunnel Falls, where you can bask in the cooling spray of the falls as you pass through the tunnel behind them.

The Mountain West CROOKED STAVE ARTISAN BEER PROJECT 3350 Brighton Blvd., Denver, Colorado 720-550-8860 | www.crookedstave.com Drive or fly into Denver, and make straight for this brewery built on Brettanomyces, a wild yeast that Crooked Stave has harnessed for its signature farmhouse funk. Go for the Nightmare on Brett, a Brett-fermented beer aged on rotating varieties of cherries and berries.

While you’re there: Head out of town and spend a few days exploring Rocky Mountain National Park. The hike to Flattop Mountain from Bear Lake is a thigh-burner, gaining and losing nearly 3,000 feet over nine miles (out-and-back), but the views you earn standing atop the Continental Divide make it worthwhile. www.nwherald.com/magazine

CASEY BREWING AND BLENDING 3421 Grand Ave., Glenwood Springs, Colorado 970-230-9691 | www.caseybrewing.com Make your way west across the Rockies and end up in the Roaring Fork valley, northwest of Aspen. There you’ll find one of the youngest and most celebrated breweries in the nation.

Troy Casey earned instant acclaim for his beers fermented and aged in oak and made exclusively with Colorado ingredients. Try any of the Casey Family Preserves, each made with a hefty, three pounds of fruit per gallon, but don’t sleep on the more mildly flavor, rustic saisons either.

While you’re there: The valley is slow and lonely, but that’s the perfect setting for fly fishing in the Roaring Fork. With Gold Medal stream status, the river supports more than 1,000 pounds of fish per mile.

The Southeast WICKED WEED FUNKATORIUM 147 Coxe Ave., Asheville, North Carolina 828-552-3203 | www.wickedweedbrewing.com Quench your thirst at the Funkatorium with Brett farmhouse beers and barrel-aged sours, such as Guajava – a golden sour ale aged in oak barrels with guava.

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While you’re there: Asheville is a Mecca of beer, barbecue and bluegrass, but fight the urge to rush there right away in order to spend some time in Great Smoky Mountains National Park.

Hike 11 miles (out-and-back) to Gregory Bald in late June to catch a stunning wildflower display and big Appalachian views. Continue on the Oskar Blues REEB Ranch where you can camp or rent a creek-side cabin or barn apartment while you spend the days mountain biking the adjacent state forest trails. Rentals and guides are available on site.

The Midwest SIDE PROJECT BREWING 7373 Marietta Ave., St. Louis, Missouri 314-224-5211 | www.thesideprojectcellar.com

SCRATCH BREWING COMPANY 264 Thompson Road, Ava, Illinois 618-426-1415 | www.scratchbeer.com Head southeast until the green, hilly landscape makes you wonder if you’re really in Illinois. Find your way to Scratch, where many ingredients for its farmhouse beers, such as maple sap, elderberry, hickory and dandelion, are grown on site or foraged.

While you’re there: Enjoy the forested setting on the patio with a wild passion fruit saison, then continue southeast to Shawnee National Forest, where the sandstone hoodoos, canyons and caves at Garden of the Gods make a strong case for best hike in the state.

The views might not be as grand this close to home, but the beer sure is. Side Project has a stellar reputation for oak-fermented and aged farmhouse and wild ales. The selection varies as founder Cory King blends barrels only as they reach maturity. Aim for a single-barrel selection or something aged on stone fruit, such as peaches, apricots or nectarines.

While you’re there: Eat at Pappy’s Smokehouse, then spend the late afternoon exploring Cahokia Mounds, a once-bustling Native American city whose ruins tower over the Mississippi Valley.

DINING & ENTERTAINING

u Paul Schneider is a production manager at Solemn Oath Brewery.

MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | MARCH 2017 | 45

Luck o’ the Irish

Local breweries, pubs to share in St. Patrick’s Day shenanigans

By KEVIN DRULEY

Although management has since reorganized the operation at Duke’s Alehouse and Kitchen, the Crystal Lake restaurant, located at 110 N. Main St., will still take part in the celebrating when St. Patrick’s Day rolls around.

“It’s really festive; it’s kind of been a tradition for us for almost 20 years,” Duke’s chef and general manager Zak Dolezal says of the restaurant’s St. Patrick’s Day festivities. “We keep carrying on even with the new concept, you know. Even though we’ve changed to more of a restaurant, that weekend we just go crazy with the bar scene and have really good food.”

Food and drink specials help augment a healthy helping of events.

At noon on March 17, Merry Measure – a Celtic/folk/renaissance band that also incorporates humor into its act – will perform at Duke’s.

At 5:30 p.m., folk vocalist/guitarist Pat Gaughan is set to take the stage with fiddler/mandolinist LJ Slavin. The duo also will perform at noon March 18, to be followed by the Ragged Rascals at 5:30 p.m. and the Lunar Ticks at 10 p.m. For more information, visit www. thedukeabides.com or call 815-356-9980.

Traditional fare, such as corned beef and cabbage, Reuben sandwiches, shepherd’s pie, Irish stew and lamb burgers, are available on St. Patrick’s Day and the days leading up to and following the holiday. On the libations front, seasonal craft beer offerings are expected to include Brian Boru Old Irish Red from 3 Floyds Brewing Company and Conway’s Irish Ale from Great Lakes Brewing Company.

“Our entire staff will be dressed up,” Dolezal says. “The whole place will be decorated.”

Here’s a glance at other St. Patrick’s Day-themed activities hosted by breweries and pubs in McHenry County: ¢ PUB 47 10400 N. Route 47, Huntley 847-669-7755 www.pub47grill.com

Reuben and Rachel sandwiches and Reuben pizza. An Irish parfait dessert – vanilla bean ice cream with homemade whipped cream, red raspberries and vanilla-green crème de menthe sauce – also will be offered.

A variety of Irish-influenced cocktails also will be available, in addition to traditional beer Pub 47 staff dresses in the tradition offerings, such as Guinness, Harp, of the St. Patrick’s Day holiday and Scotch ales and red lagers. encourages guests to follow suit.

“Between the holiday drinks, food, [décor], Irish music from Touchtunes, the friendly service, warming atmosphere and the amazing large crowd that visits us on St. Patrick’s Day, it all makes for a great, memorable atmosphere and experience for friends, family, young and old,” Pub 47 general manager Gordon Smith writes in an email.

Pub 47 offers a St. Patrick’s Day menu from March 17 through 9 p.m. March 19. Irish fare will include slow-roasted corned beef with cooked cabbage, sweet Yukon gold potatoes, roasted herb vegetables and a horseradish cream sauce, shepherd’s pie,

¢ SCORCHED EARTH BREWING COMPANY

203 Berg St., Algonquin 224-209-8472 www.scorchedearthbrewing.com Scorched Earth will augment its tap room with holiday decorations, live Irish music and green beer. On March 18, multi-instrumentalist Robert McLeod of the Irish Music School of Chicago will perform from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. Consult Scorched Earth’s website and Facebook page for more details as St. Patrick’s Day nears.

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¢ VILLAGE VINTNER WINERY AND BREWERY 2380 Esplanade Drive, Algonquin 847-658-4900 www.thevillagevintner.com Expect traditional corned beef and cabbage, as well as other Irish-inspired menu choices, on March 17 and the surrounding days. A craft Irish red ale and other similar, seasonal selections will be available, as well. Green beer, however, will not.

¢ EMMETT’S BREWING COMPANY 128 W. Main St., West Dundee 847-428-4500 www.emmettsbrewingco.com Controlled Burn, which blossomed from a casual neighborhood quintet into a seven-member group that writes its own music, takes the stage at 8 p.m.

March 17. There is no cover charge. On March 11, Emmett’s extended patio area will feature a beer tent and corned beef sandwiches after the establishment holds its 10th annual Big Wheel Race for adults. Race heats begin at 1 p.m. The Brothers Quinn takes the stage later in the evening for a free show. Emmett’s seasonal craft beer selections will include Defiance, a mildly-hopped Irish red.

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MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | MARCH 2017 | 47 2/28/17 8:30 AM

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DINING & ENTERTAINING

RISE AND DINE

Kid-friendly breakfast destinations

WINDHILL PANCAKE PARLOR

3307 W. ELM ST. | MCHENRY | 815-385-1172

S

tep back to a quieter time in this well-established pancake house with an at-home feel. Since 1976, this family-owned restaurant has been dedicated to quality service and great food. Diners can enjoy a relaxing breakfast, lunch or dinner surrounded by antiques and collectibles, as well as a train counter for the kids.

BRUNCH CAFE

935 ROUTE 22 | FOX RIVER GROVE | 847-516-0409 • 414 S. ROUTE 31 | MCHENRY | 815-344-4055 12270 PRINCETON DRIVE | HUNTLEY | 847-669-8437 • 1500 W. LAKE ST. | ROSELLE | 630-924-3057 172 S. FIRST ST. | ST. CHARLES | 630-940-2814 (NOW OPEN)

T

his cute and contemporary café invites diners to enjoy a trendier twist on the breakfast and lunch classics. Fresh Ingredients, precise attention to detail, gorgeous presentation and affordable prices make each dining experience at Brunch Café one to remember. Catering also is

TONY’S CAFE

available for any occasion. The dining room is available for private parties after hours, and it also serves as a perfect place for meetings and special events. For more information, visit www.brunchcafe.com.

1030 MCHENRY AVE. | CRYSTAL LAKE |815-477-8118

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t Tony’s Café, you feel like family.

The menu at the homey diner features its signature stuffed potato pancake, pancake berry burrito and almost anything else your heart desires. It’s fresh food made from scratch, and the price is right. The

BURNT TOAST RESTAURANT

C

onsidered one of the first restaurants in Algonquin to offer breakfast, Burnt Toast Restaurant is a lively, contemporary space that offers diners a traditional menu – but with a twist. Known for its French toast specialties, creative egg dishes, skillets and classic brunch

www.nwherald.com/magazine

Reservations are always recommended – especially on the weekends. Windhill is open 365 days a year and seven days a week: 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday through Thursday and 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Friday. For more information, visit www.windhillpancakeparlor.com.

DINING & ENTERTAINING

café serves lunch and dinner, and is open 7 days a week: 6:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Saturday through Thursday, and 6:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Friday. For more information, visit tonyscafe.weebly. com.

2520 BUNKER HILL DRIVE | ALGONQUIN | 847-854-9552 2492 N. RANDALL ROAD | ELGIN | 847-551-9725

menu, diners can visit Burnt Toast for breakfast or lunch, six days a week. The restaurant is open from 6:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday; and 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Sunday. For more information, visit www.btrestaurant.com.

MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | MARCH 2017 | 49

Book Nook

TRAVEL TALES TO WHISK YOU AWAY

By ALLISON MANLEY

While it feels like we’ve had an unusually warm winter this year, I still find myself tempted to pack a bag and take a weekend trip somewhere warmer. I envy those who get to travel for work, since ¬– for me – travel is about meeting people and eating delicious local food.

For others, travel might be more about nature, spa visits or the exploration of different cultures or local history. Regardless of the reasons for traveling, its ability to transform and inspire has been so well-acknowledged by writers that there is an entire genre devoted to the subject.

Featuring travelers on three unique journeys, these books helped whisk me away as I daydreamed about warmer locales.

Allison Manley was born in Georgia and raised in Island Lake. She graduated from Northwestern University with a degree in creative writing. She loves opera, craft beer, and (of course!) reading.

50 | MARCH 2017 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

¢ ‘I ALMOST FORGOT ABOUT YOU’

By Terry McMillan In McMillan’s novel, Georgia – a divorced, 54-year-old eye doctor from California – learns from a patient that one of her former lovers died years earlier. The discovery prompts an epiphany, and she decides to take a train trip through Canada and find a new vocation in life.

Life gets in the way, however, as drama in the lives of the people close to her unfolds.

The novel – written by the No. 1 New York Times bestselling author of “How Stella Got Her Groove Back” and “Waiting To Exhale” – has enough emotional action to keep a reader interested, but the present tense and frequent switches between the past and the present really keep you on your toes. ‘I Almost Forgot About You’ isn’t just a reflection on romance. Through all of the reminiscing about old relationships, there’s also plenty of intergenerational frustration, frank meditation on (and appreciation of) aging and an understanding of what it means to be a friend. After sharing the experience of Georgia’s travels down memory lane, you may be surprised by the ending! ¢ ‘BLUE HIGHWAYS: A JOURNEY INTO AMERICA’

By William Least Heat-Moon William Least Heat-Moon’s travelogue is the embodiment of the road not taken – or rather, the road trip not taken – as he circles the U.S. continent for three months while avoiding large roads as much as possible. The book shows his off-the-beaten-path stops, many of which are in small towns, which he doesn’t portray through the stereotypical “quaint” lens you see in other depictions or rural life. He names his van Ghost Dancing, and it’s the perfect title for a vehicle that helps him explore the literal and figurative hauntings of the places he visits. The van’s name also reflects his relationship with his Native American identity, which regularly affects the interactions he has with the people he meets on his journey.

OUT & ABOUT

“Blue Highways” is a tasting menu of moments and memories, including brief – but substantial –descriptions of each town he visits. With each bit of local history, Least Heat-Moon also shows how he progresses on his personal journey; he gives readers so much fodder for introspection that they will inevitably join in their own journey of self-discovery. ¢ ‘STATION ELEVEN’

By Emily St. John Mandel Set decades after a new flu strain wipes out 99 percent of the population, “Station Eleven” follows a cast of characters as we see where their lives were before, during and after the initial devastating outbreak.

The primary character, Kirsten, is an actress and musician in the Traveling Symphony, which roams what was once known as America to perform works by William Shakespeare to anyone willing to listen. After accidentally losing two of its members, the troupe decides to search for an airport nicknamed the “Museum of Civilization” – one of the most denselypopulated areas left in the country.

Unlike other dystopian fictions, Mandel’s novel doesn’t offer any overt social or political commentary, and thus lacks the gritty writing you see in other post-apocalyptic pieces. There’s a part-sad, part-sentimental quality to the story as the characters muse on things they miss from before “Year Zero” – conveniences such as internet and ice cream, but also their loved ones who either died or were lost because they could no longer make contact over long distances. My favorite theme from the novel is that art – for better or for worse – can have a great impact on humanity and that, even in the midst of tragedy, it can give people hope.

www.nwherald.com/magazine

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OUT & ABOUT

MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | MARCH 2017 | 51

52 | MARCH 2017 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

OUT & ABOUT

www.nwherald.com/magazine

Artist SHOWCASE MICHELLE CLESCERI CARY ‘JUST LET US PARTY’ OIL ON CANVAS

Cary resident Michelle Clesceri has been painting for a year and a half. The happilymarried mother of four is a retired lawyer.

Before retiring, Clesceri practiced law as a California state’s attorney from the time she graduated law school in 1989 until 2005 – when she moved to Illinois.

Her journey into the arts began after a visit to a studio at McHenry County College. For Clesceri, the college visit provided her with a brush with the past.

“Because my mom is an oil painter, I grew up around the smell of the paint,” she says.

“During a visit to MCC, I walked by the art studio and the smell of the paint made me feel so nostalgic and I longed to try it out. I love painting because of those memories – the smell and the chance to work with the beauty of color.”

Connecting people who care with causes that matter THE CENTER OF PHILANTHROPY • Annual Gifts • MCHelp • Veterans Funds • Legacy Giving • GIVE360 • Scholarship Funds Philanthropy is easy with a little help from your friends at the MCCF!

“Just Let Us Party” is modeled after a picture Clesceri took of lettuce and cabbage mixed together. After painting it, Clesceri says that her art teacher, Mark Arctander, encouraged her to “be bold with color and explore the creative process with the understanding that ‘it’s just art after all; it’s not so precious.’”

Clesceri took her teacher’s advice and began glazing different colors into the natural patterns of the lettuce.

“I love painting and the peace it brings to me,” says Clesceri. “I fell in love with the process, the energy, the creative environment and the work.”

To submit an entry to Artist Showcase, email artwork, title of piece, name and village of residence of artist, a two- to three-sentence description of the piece, short bio and artist photo to McHenryCountyMagazine@shawmedia.com, subject head “Local Artist Submission.” www.nwherald.com/magazine

www.MCCFdn.org OUT & ABOUT

MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE | MARCH 2017 | 53

MARCH 2017

CALENDAR

‘LEGALLY BLONDE – THE MUSICAL’ WHEN: 8 p.m. Friday, March 3, 10 and 17; and Saturday, March 4, 11 and 18; and 3 p.m. Sunday, March 5, 12 and 19 WHERE: Woodstock Opera House 121 Van Buren St., Woodstock Based on the novel by Amanda Brown and the Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer motion picture, “Legally Blonde – The Musical” will be brought to life

by TownSquare Players. “Legally Blonde – The Musical” tells the story of Elle Woods, who takes Harvard Law by storm in her pursuit of love. Tickets start at $13. For tickets and more information, visit www.woodstockoperahouse.com.

FEST OF THE SUGAR MAPLES WHEN: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 4, 5, 11 and 12 WHERE: Coral Woods Conservation Area 7400 Somerset Drive, Marengo Participants will listen to stories about how maple syrup was made hundreds of years ago. Discover how maple trees produce sap each spring, how sap is collected and how maple syrup is made at the evaporator house. The tour will end with hot cocoa and sweet treats. The event is free and all ages are welcome. Registration is not required. For more information, visit www.mccdistrict.org.

MCC TO STAGE ‘THE NORMAL HEART’ WHEN: 7:30 p.m. Thursdays through Saturdays, March 9 through March 25 WHERE: McHenry County College 8900 U.S. Highway 14, Crystal Lake The Black Box Theatre will present, as part of its 50th anniversary season, “The Normal Heart”

by Larry Kramer. This Tony Award-winning play, originally presented in 1985, is a searing drama about public and private indifference to the AIDS plague and one man’s lonely fight to awaken the world to the crisis. Tickets cost $15 for general admission and $10 for McHenry County College students, faculty and staff, alumni and senior citizens. To reserve a seat, call Jay Geller at 815455-8746 or email jgeller@mchenry.edu. For more information, visit www.mchenry.edu/theatre.

CLOVER HUNT WHEN: 10 a.m. March 11 WHERE: Village Hall 600 Harvest Gate, Lake in the Hills Clover Hunt participants will seek hundreds of clovers at Village Hall to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day. Each clover will have a treat attached and the person who finds a four-leaf clover will receive a special prize. Registration is not required. The event is free. For more information, visit www.lith. org.

MCHENRY SPRING WEDDING EXPO WHEN: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 11 WHERE: Mixin Mingle 1118 N. Green St., McHenry

event is free. For more information, visit the event identity theft in Victorian England. Edward and his American wife, Margaret, are starving for his art.

Facebook page.

Surely there must be a better way to becoming PSYCHIC HOLISTIC FAIR England’s most famous and beloved poet?

WHEN: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, March 11, General admission is $35.50. For tickets or more and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, March 12 information, visit wsrep.org.

WHERE: 30 N. Williams St., Suite F LINE DANCE PARTY – Brink Street Market, Crystal Lake WHEN: 7 to 9 p.m. March 18 The fair will feature an artist trunk show, henna WHERE: Grand Oaks Recreation Center tattoos, medium sessions, tarot and oracle card 1401 W. Route 176, Crystal Lake readings, angel card readings, energy chakra balancing, problem resolution sessions and more. A complimentary dance lesson kicks off the The event is free to attend. For more information, evening from 7:15 to 8 p.m., then the dance party will begin. Dance the rest of the night away visit www.EnlightenedBalance.com. to traditional country music and some not so MCHENRY ST. PAT’S PARADE traditional country music. Refreshments will be WHEN: 1 p.m. March 12 included. The fee after deadline and at the door WHERE: McHenry High School - East Campus is $14 for non-residents and $12 for residents.

1012 N. Green St., McHenry This event is for ages 18 and older. For more McHenry Downtown Business Association information, visit crystallakeparks.org. is sponsoring McHenry’s seventh annual St. ART ATTACK! SIP AND PAINT BYOB Patrick’s Day Parade. The purpose of this parade NIGHT is to honor and bring awareness to our local WHEN: 7 to 9:30 p.m. Monday, March 20 service organizations. The parade will start at WHERE: Grand Oaks McHenry High School -East Campus, continue 1401 W. Route 176, Crystal Lake north on Green Street and end at Veteran’s Those ages 14 and older will enjoy a painting class Park. Come out with the family to salute all area service organizations. For more information, visit with local artist Julie Kukreja, who will give strokeby-stroke instruction to making an 11-by-14 canvas mchenryevents.com/events. acrylic painting. Attendees should bring a favorite WE CAN READ IT! PANEL ON beverage and snacks. All materials provided. New FEMINISM IN THE YOUTH ADULT paintings are featured each week and are posted WORLD on the Park District web page under art. The fee is WHEN: 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 15 $30. For more information, visit crystallakeparks.

WHERE: Read Between the Lynes org.

111 E. Van Buren St., Woodstock FOURTH FRIDAYS ART SHOW Read Between the Lynes will host a lively WHEN: 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, March 24 discussion about feminism, YA literature, and WHERE: Starline Factory, Inc. more, featuring panelists Kelly Jensen, Mikki West Front Street, Harvard Kendall, EM Kokie, and Laura Ruby. “Here We The Fourth Fridays regional art event takes place Are: Feminism for the Real World” (edited by at the historic Starline Factory nine months a year, Kelly Jensen) is a scrapbook-style teen guide to understanding what it means to be a 21st-century from January through August. The event features feminist. All together, the book features more than a juried mixed art exhibit, juried photo contest, forty-four pieces and illustrations. “Here We Are” is featured artist solo exhibit, vendor artists on the a response to discussions about the true meaning lower level, open Starline artist studios, People’s Choice voting, live music on three levels and a cash of feminism on social media and across popular bar for beer, wine and mixed drinks. Admission is culture. The event is free. For more information, $10. For more information, visit nancymerkling. visit www.readbetweenthelynes.com. com/4th-fridays/4th-fridays-at-the-starline.

FILM LOVERS GROUP - ‘REBECCA’ REGIONAL MEDITERRANEAN WHEN: 6 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday, March 16 SLOW FOOD AND WINE PAIRING WHERE: Crystal Lake Public Library WHEN: 6 to 9 p.m. Saturday, March 25 126 W. Paddock St., Crystal Lake WHERE: Loyola University Film buffs can bring their own dinner to the film Retreat and Ecology Campus screening of “Rebecca” (1940; 130 minutes).

2710 S. Country Club Road, Woodstock Attendees are invited to stay for a discussion Enjoy a Mediterranean-inspired dinner featuring afterward. The film is not rated. For more Edi Simcic wines. The event will include a wine information, visit www.crystallakelibrary.org. reception with passed hors d’oeuvres followed WILLIAMS STREET REP by a five-course dinner paired with wines from PRESENTS ‘ANY OTHER NAME’ the small Slovenian estate. The event costs $80 a WHEN: 8 p.m. March 17, 18, 24, 25, 31 and April 1; person. For more information, visit www.luc.edu/ and 3 p.m. March 19, 25, 26 and April 2 cookingclasses or call 815-338-1032.

WHERE: Raue Center For The Arts, 26 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake

The McHenry wedding expo will feature vendors, a mimosa bar, photo booth, live DJ, raffles, free samples and giveaways, demonstrations and Written by George Brant, “Any Other Name” more. Those who register in advance will receive a is a dark comedy about poetry, madness and drink ticket and swag bag. Walk-ins welcome. The 54 | MARCH 2017 | MCHENRY COUNTY MAGAZINE

OUT & ABOUT

www.nwherald.com/magazine

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