MCM-05-01-2013

’s en n m io o it W Ed

May 2013

Living

In Uniform Algonquin Native Opens Uniform Shop To Outfit Medical, Public Safety Personnel

Special!

Women In Business:

Meet nearly 60 females leading your community pg 57

Single Moms

A salute to McHenry County moms doing it on their own pg 48

Outdoor Oasis

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Whispering Hills has your landscaping answers pg 20

INSIDE

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Women’s edition

Some of the newest women’s suit shades are ‘grassy green’ and ‘soft tangerine’...

pg 100

Elliot Staples, senior vice president of design for The Limited

Home & Lifestyle 12

20

24 28 32 37

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Home Design — Spring Planting: Pick up planting pointers from experts at Tom’s Farm Market and Greenhouses in Huntley, Harms Farm and Garden Center in McHenry and Van Hoorn Nurseries in Marengo.

Cover Inset: Whispering Hills Garden and Landscape Center in Crystal Lake can help you whip your yard into shape, either by helping you tackle landscape design projects yourself or doing the work for you.

WOD: Meet seven influential female leaders of McHenry County as we introduce you to the winners of the second annual McHenry County Magazine Women of Distinction.

Two Vietnam War veterans — John Hanson of Woodstock and Dave Burdloff of Crystal Lake — share what Memorial Day means to them.

Artist Profile: Mary Ann Telfer of McHenry says she is constantly evolving as an artist, even after years in the industry. See what is influencing her work today!

A Little Bird Told Me: Meet some of the women who have broken into the wine industry and done extremely well. Cardinal Wine and Spirits in Crystal Lake lists wines and wineries that have women at the helm.

Put a Fork In It: Dave Faccone of Crystal Lake Rib House ventures into Chinese take out territory and shares one of his favorite venues.

Health 40 44

Serve Mom a healthy breakfast in bed with these kidfriendly ideas from Marilia Arguedas, chef, mother and owner of Artisan Meals, based in Algonquin.

Midwives are gaining popularity because they offer something in short supply — time. Meet two McHenry County midwives as they explain the benefits of midwifery.

Family 48

52 55

Success Lives Next Door: Being a single parent isn’t easy, yet 35 percent of American children live with just a mommy or daddy. Meet Dina Frigo of Huntley as we pay tribute to the single mothers in McHenry County.

Parents, what do you do when your college grad moves back home? Check out this quick guide with tips to keep you — and your graduate — on track.

Write This Down: Stay-at-home mother Michelle Stien says moms gotta stick together. Find out what she thinks about “The Real Mothers of McHenry County.”

Women in Business 58

62 66 69

On The Cover: Penny Keck — an Algonquin native who became a nurse at Centegra Health System — has used her roots and medical background to open a Crystal Lake business that offers uniforms for medical, public safety, security and culinary personnel.

Tami Hacker, 32, utilized her love of planning and organizational skills to open Creatively Yours, a wedding planning business in McHenry.

Find out how Dr. Lindy Rucks, who owns her own dental practice in Lakewood, balances work with family time with her husband and three small girls.

Meet the professional businesswomen of McHenry County!

Fashion & Beauty

3 104 108

Need to look professional, but don’t want to wear a frumpy old suit? Check out the bright, colorful styles of sophisticated business suits available at The Limited.

Learn how to pick the right shape and style of eyeglass frames for your face shape with help from professionals at Precision Eye Care LLC in Algonquin.

Check out these ways to repurpose a wedding dress!

Out & About 110

Social Life: McHenry County Magazine recently hosted

112

Calendar: Find something fun to do with help from our

115

Artist Showcase: Teresa Ponio of Island Lake shares

its inaugural Women’s Power Luncheon. See who attended! calendar of arts and events.

two watercolors that reflect warm weather and serene landscapes.

from the editor

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Bringing Home The Bacon

t’s a fun time to be a woman.

I was reminded of this recently while attending a “Power Luncheon” — sponsored by McHenry County Magazine — that brought together a panel of five influential women in the area, including the founder and CEO of a highly successful bank, a politician, an appellate court judge, the president of a university and a business consultant.

None of the panelists was older than 65, I’d guess, but a few spoke of the difficulties of being a woman in a time when females simply did not have executive authority in their fields.

The banker, in particular, noted that when she started out, she didn’t have any female role models in her industry. And the few women who were in the business didn’t come together to support each other – they were fighting for the handful of positions of power that were open to their gender.

Listening to these women share their advice for becoming influential leaders was inspiring, and it made me grateful as I realized how fortunate I am to grow up in an era where my opportunities — as a woman — seem endless.

It hasn’t been all that long since women have really found an equal footing in many professions, and even today, it’s not always equal. I have the feeling many of our mothers and grandmothers can share stories of having to fight for the opportunity to prove themselves in fields long dominated by men.

But it’s amazing to see how far our female family members, friends, neighbors and

coworkers have pushed the envelope, and I’m thankful that their hard work has made it that much easier for younger generations to step up and be leaders in their communities.

Our May women’s issue congratulates the ladies in McHenry County on their life successes, whether they’re female entrepreneurs, single mothers, artists or business leaders.

We start by profiling two incredibly successful women who started their own businesses. Penny Keck, our cover model, used her background as a nurse to open Today’s Uniforms in Crystal Lake, which carries outfits for medical, public safety, security and culinary workers, among other things (page 58). And Tami Hacker used a potentially devastating situation — returning from her honeymoon to find out she had been let go from her job — to start Creatively Yours, her own wedding planner business (page 62).

Both ladies — plus Dr. Lindy Rucks, who owns her own dental practice in Lakewood (page 66) — are featured in our special Women in Business section, along with nearly 60 other females who showcase their talents in their own fields (page 70). Don’t miss their stories!

We also pay tribute to the single mothers of McHenry County (page 48) by sharing the story of Dina Frigo of Huntley, who is raising her three children without the support of a husband.

For all of the mothers out there, we offer a handful of simple, healthy recipes that are perfect for a Mother’s Day breakfast in bed (page 40). Our chef, Marilia Arguedas of Algonquin, not only is a mother herself, but she owns her own business — Artisan Meals.

We also profile local McHenry artist Mary Ann Telfer (page 32), we talk to the senior vice president of design for The Limited to learn how to find the latest in professional business attire with a flair for color and style (page 100) and we share fashion tips for how to find the perfect eyeglass frames for your face shape (page 104).

Join us as we salute the women in our lives, and please enjoy the following pages!

— Stephanie N. Grimoldby Editor

8 McHenry County Magazine • May 2013

Published by Shaw Media 7717 S. Route 31, Crystal Lake, IL 60014 Phone: 815-459-4040 Fax: 815-477-4960 www.McHenryCountyMagazine.com Publisher John Rung 815-459-4040 jrung@shawmedia.com Niche Product Manager Kelly Buchanan 815-526-4445 kbuchanan@shawmedia.com Niche Account Executive Bethany Detert 815-526-4427 bdetert@shawmedia.com Editor Stephanie N. Grimoldby 815-526-4467 sgrimoldby@shawmedia.com Designer Allison McCaleb 815-526-4485 amccaleb@shawmedia.com Vice President/Niche Products J. Tom Shaw 630-232-9222 jtshaw@shawmedia.com Correspondents Betsy Demitropoulos, Jami Kunzer, Lee Nelson, Elizabeth Harmon, Colleen Leonard, Lauren Lynch, Jacky Runice, Amanda Marrazzo, Lara Jackson Photographers Melissa Emory, Heather Nelson, Michele Idstein 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.

McHenryCountyMagazine.com

SNEAK PEEK In our June “Men’s” issue, don’t miss: Tips for home brewing Men who manage being Mr. Mom The best fishing spots in McHenry County How to find fresh veggies at farmers’ markets

Grooming tips and tricks ... and more!

McHenryCountyMagazine.com

On The Cover Pictured on the cover is Penny Keck, 42, owner of Today’s Uniforms in Crystal Lake. In her shop, the former nurse carries scrubs for medical personnel, uniforms for public safety officers, chef attire and much more. To learn more about Keck and other female entrepreneurs, see our Women In Business section on page 57.

Photo by Melissa Emory Hair and makeup by Isabella and Stephanie, respectively, of Mario Tricoci Hair Salons and Day Spas in Crystal Lake

May 2013 • McHenry County Magazine

9

home & lifestyle / HOMEdesign

By ELIZABETH HARMON Photos by HEATHER NELSON

GET BIT

By The Bug

How to plan and plant a beautiful garden

5 Pansies and violas are already in bloom at Tom’s Farm Market and Greenhouses. They are a common household flower in the spring.

Got an itchy green thumb?

A seasonal condition, no one is immune — even those of us who never water the dusty philodendron in the corner.

6Coleus in King Salmon Pink is available at Tom’s.

It does well in both sun and shade.

As the weather gets warmer and garden centers set out tempting flats of colorful blooms and tender young vegetables, we often rush out and buy whatever strikes our mood.

Yet, too often, the results fall short of our expectations.

McHenry County planting pros have a smart prescription to turn green thumb itch into a beautiful garden all season long.

The secret?

Plan and prepare.

“Instead of being in a rush to plant, use the early weeks in May to prepare your soil,” says Tom Halat, owner of Tom’s Farm Market and Greenhouses in Huntley.

Though the season’s final frost usually comes around May 15, local weather can be chilly.

Halat’s commercial crops aren’t planted

before May 25, and more tender varieties are best planted Memorial Day weekend or after.

Watch the weather closely, and if frost comes after you’ve planted, protect young plants by covering them with a fabric sheet — never plastic.

“Plastic attracts frost, so that’s a no-no,” Halat says.

Theresa Harms, owner of Harms Farm and Garden Center in McHenry, recommends tilling soil at least six inches deep and mixing in compost to create a more nourishing environment for young plants.

Also, replenish mulch to keep the soil moist and reduce weeds, she says.

Make a plan With your soil ready, make a plan.

Evergreens planted around the foundation of your home are intended as a backdrop for other plants. Place taller plants in the back, mixing in evergreens and deciduous shrubs for more variety. Medium-height perennials are a good choice for the next layer, with a mix of shorter annuals and perennials in front.

To avoid a symmetrical stair-step look, Harms says to cluster plants in odd

4Tom Halat, owner of Tom’s Farm Market and Greenhouses, makes sure the business is ready for the outdoor gardening season.

numbered groups.

In the front yard, place plants strategically.

“The front door is always the focal point, so structure your landscape around that,” Harms says.

If you’re not sure of your home’s sunny and shady spots, take time to observe light patterns, keeping summer’s longer days in mind.

Perennials

Perennial plants bloom year after year, and James Van Hoorn, owner of Van Hoorn Nurseries in Marengo, says that native perennials have become popular choices.

“They don’t need lots of fertilizer and water,” he says. “When we have watering restrictions, they are fine when other plants aren’t.”

Native perennials can be watered every other day, in the morning.

“Watering in the evening can cause fungus to grow,” Van Hoorn says.

Popular native perennials that do well in sunny areas include coneflowers and a double form coneflower that looks like a zinnia. Giant tickseed can grow up to 8 feet tall and has yellow blooms that attract finches. Planted in a row, the plant can create a privacy screen at the edge of your yard.

Ornamental grasses can provide beauty and texture year round. Popular varieties include the blues cultivar of little bluestem and the tara cultivar of prairie drop seed.

For shade, Van Hoorn suggests the lady fern or ostrich fern. Bleeding hearts bloom with small, heart-shaped flowers in the spring, and newer varieties such as valentine continue to bloom throughout the season.

Plant perennials in combinations that will provide continual color. For sunny areas, Harms suggests spring blooming tulips, hyacinth and daffodils, which are planted as bulbs the previous fall. Summer bloomers include hollyhocks, coreopsis and delphinium. Fall blooming flowers include asters, sedum and mums.

In addition to bleeding hearts, Harms recommends forget-me-knots and lily of the valley for spring color in shady perennial gardens. Summer blooms for shady areas include coral bells, astilbe and perennial geraniums.

Hostas are popular, easy to grow and come in a wide variety of foliage. Shadetolerant plants that bloom in fall are harder to find, Harms says, but ferns and other plants with attractive foliage will provide color and interest.

And don’t forget about winter.

“Ornamental grasses and evergreens add year-round interest,” she says.

3Sue Watkins, a container gardener, at Tom’s, likes to combine a variation of plants and colors.

May 2013 • McHenry County Magazine

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4Steady, gentle watering and the proper temperature are important for preparing plants for the outdoors, whether they are in beds or containers.

Annuals

Annuals must be planted each year and, with the exception of pansies, viola and dianthus, are best planted after May 15.

Some varieties, such as impatiens, begonias, coleus and ageratum, shouldn’t be planted until Memorial Day or after.

For sunny areas, Harms suggests salvia and petunias.

“For shade, you won’t go wrong with impatiens and begonias,” she says.

Container gardens are a way to enjoy annuals early in the season, as they can be brought in at night to protect them from cold and high wind.

Sue Watkins, container gardener at Tom’s Farm Market and Greenhouses, says that containers require more attention than flowers planted in the ground.

“The containers are smaller, and the sun and wind dry them out quickly,” she says.

14 McHenry County Magazine • May 2013

McHenryCountyMagazine.com

“They need to be watered twice a day and should be fertilized every two weeks.”

Choose a container with a drainage hole and fill it with potting soil rather than topsoil or soil from your garden or yard. Different potting soils have different compositions. Those with high concentrations of peat tend to dry out more quickly. Watkins recommends the BAACTO brand of potting soil.

For containers in sunny spots, she recommends angelona and calibrachoa, a small-sized flower that resembles a petunia. For shade, try begonias and even perennials, which can be planted in the ground at the end of the season.

Coleus a colorful, non-blooming annual foliage, works in both sun or shade.

Vegetables

For vegetable gardening success, follow the same guidelines for annuals.

Tom Halat says a few vegetables can be planted from seed in late April or early May such as carrots, peas, radishes and leaf lettuce, while warm-weather plants are best planted from seedlings after May 26. Warm weather vegetables include broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts,

3Pictured is a fairy garden, which is a popular way to make use of small space.

McHenryCountyMagazine.com

May 2013 • McHenry County Magazine

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5Pictured above is Echinacea Marmalade.

Photo provided by Van Hoorn Nurseries

melons, cucumbers, zucchini, tomatoes and peppers.

When planting, Halat advises adding liquid fertilizer to the soil and applying again two weeks after.

“Don’t ever put granulated fertilizer crystals in the plant hole,” he says. “You’ll burn the roots.” mc 6Another form of container gardening is a hanging wall pouch. Impatients will grow and completely surround the wall pouch, creating a burst of color along walls.

16 McHenry County Magazine • May 2013

McHenryCountyMagazine.com

5

Invasive Plants Not To Plant In Your Garden

By GateHouse News Service

If you have ever seen a weed take over your whole garden or yard, you have seen invasive plants in action.

The following invasive plants look like common garden plants. However, they are capable of quickly multiplying and crowding out native plants in open spaces like woodlands and wetlands.

Take care not to plant these plants in your garden.

English Ivy

This ground cover is popular in North America but, unfortunately, it escapes from gardens easily. It is known to crowd out forest floors by preventing other plants from receiving enough sunlight. If you are set on using English ivy as a groundcover, know that it must be trimmed back often in order for it not to spread.

If you are willing to prune English Ivy your English ivy regularly, it poses a minimal risk of spreading. A native alternative to English ivy

McHenryCountyMagazine.com

May 2013 • McHenry County Magazine

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is Allegheny spurge (Pachysandra procumbens).

Allegheny spurge is a sturdy groundcover with green foliage.

Purple Loostrife

to neighboring lands.

Although it colonizes in wetlands, yellowflag iris is very drought-resistant.

It grows in both saltwater and freshwater wetlands. If you are planting irises, be sure that you are planting native iris cultivars, as yellowflag iris is highly invasive.

Purple loosestrife is a perennial herb that is native to central and southern Europe and many parts of Asia. Its square, woody stem characterizes it, and its magenta blooms.

Purple loostrife takes over wetland areas where it outcompetes with native plant species, which provide better nutrition to wildlife.

Regulations in Minnesota, Illinois and Wisconsin Purple Loostrife prohibit buying and selling Purple loostrife. Several insect species have been approved by the U.S. Department of Agriculture for controlling it on a large scale. Although it was introduced in the 1800s as an ornamental plant, it’s not a good choice for gardens today. Native alternatives to purple loostrife are purple aster, New England aster and bee balm.

Also known as “wild snapdragon,” yellow toadflax looks a lot like native snapdragons. They grow horizontal, with interconnected root systems, and therefore grow in clusters. Yellow toadflax thrives in moist to well-drained soil. Though yellow toadflax was introduced to America as an ornamental plant, it is considered to be an invasive weed. Plant native snapdragons, rather than yellow toadflax.

Yellowflag Iris

Bush Honeysuckles

The Yellowflag Iris is easy to mistake for native irises. It is a wetland plant that colonizes into monotypic stands, crowding out native wetland plants. Yellowflag iris spreads easily from gardens

18 McHenry County Magazine • May 2013

Yellowflag Iris

Yellow Toadflax Yellow Toadflax

many environments, Bush Honeysuckle from wetlands to woodlands. The woody bushes grow in thickets and can easily dominate the habitat where they grow. If you are introducing honeysuckle to your garden, be sure that you are planting native honeysuckle vines rather than honeysuckle bushes. mc — Chaya Kurtz writes for Roofing Networx

3Pictured is a garden decoration available at Tom’s Farm Market and Greenhouses.

Unlike the sweet smelling vine honeysuckles that are ever so delicious, bush honeysuckles are invasive plants that are native to Asia. They are deciduous bushes that are able to thrive in

McHenryCountyMagazine.com

home & lifestyle

Photos provided by Whispering Hills Garden and Landscape Center

Create Your Own

PARADISE

Whispering Hills Garden And Landscape Center Can Help I By STEPHANIE N. GRIMOLDBY

Whether

members at Whispering Hills also are able to tackle much larger projects.

• Maintenance crews can offer spring and fall cleanups and can also do cleanup work before an event or party.

• Landscape crews can do everything from design to completion.

• Brick crews, who are certified Unilock installers, can install pavers for patios, walkways, fireplaces, pizza ovens, outdoor kitchens, bar areas and more.

• Other crews can custom-build outdoor pergolas and other structures.

No matter the scope of the project, staff members are genuinely happy to be part of your outdoor plans, says Michelle Anderson, vice president of Whispering Hills.

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you’re a do-it-yourselfer or a homeowner without a green thumb, there’s a place in Crystal Lake that can help you create the ultimate outdoor living space.

Whispering Hills Garden and Landscape Center, located a quarter mile south of Rakow Road on Route 31, has been helping area homeowners landscape and design their outdoor spaces for 23 years.

And the company has been doing everything but whispering.

Aside from staffing a great local garden center carrying nearly everything you could need for a backyard oasis, the team

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“Nothing gets me more excited than when you walk in and lilacs are blooming,” says Anderson, who runs the business with her husband, Al. “I like to help people get excited about what they’re doing in their yard. I love the arrival of the spring, blooming flowers and the gorgeous plants.”

Getting started When you head into Whispering Hills looking to revamp or completely redo your outdoor space, you’ll be greeted by an educated sales staff who will try to learn a bit more about your style and needs, says Sean Ducey, a 12-year veteran of Whispering Hills who has a degree in ornamental horticulture and manages the garden center.

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Common questions may include: What size yard are you looking to landscape? What are your plans for the space? What types of plants, shrubs and trees do you like? Do you have kids? What do you want out of your landscape?

Then, it’s time to figure out how much work you’re going to do yourself, Anderson says.

For the DIYer, Whispering Hills employees can recommend everything from plants to mulch that work well together and explain what type of care each species will require.

If that’s all you need, you can walk in, get your plants and information and go home and get to work, Anderson says.

Or, if you need someone to actually do the work for you, Whispering Hills has you covered, too, Anderson says.

A professional landscape designer can come out to your property for a consultation, suggest ideas and draw sketches that show exactly where your plants — and extras, like benches, bubblers or fountains, an outdoor patio, a fireplace, etc. — will go.

Whispering Hills can even provide you with full landscape design CAD drawings that can diagram the landscape plan, which can be completed all at once or phased in over time, Anderson says.

If you want to tackle the hardscapes and trees this year, that’s fine, she says. In the fall, you can add the next set of plants, and next spring, you can add more color — all according to your design plan, which will help everything fall into place as the seasons progress.

“After 10 years, we still have people bringing in plans,” Ducey says. “[They’ll say], ‘We want to take out the kids’ play area,’ or ‘We’re ready to tackle another area.’”

One of the best things about Whispering Hills is that Anderson, Ducey and other staff members work to educate their customers so that they can make smart decisions about which plants work best for which situations, Anderson says.

“We offer locally-grown, high-quality specimen plant material, and we also educate our customers,” she says. “We want them to have a good experience and not have to rip something out because they weren’t put in the right area or maintained properly.”

“A lot of people read magazines and say, ‘I want that,’” Ducey adds. “But they may not understand the maintenance involved or that [a certain plant] might not work in this climate.”

Everything you need

g

Whispering Hills is a full-service garden and landscape center and offers many varieties of trees and shrubs.

“We are very selective on the material we offer,” Ducey says. “We know what works for this area.”

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Whispering Hills carries several varieties of: a annuals a perennials a vegetables a trees, shrubs, evergreens a fall plants and decor a berries a ground covers a roses a and more

Whispering Hills also has a stone quarry filled with rock and stone from all over the U.S. You can handpick your own boulders for your landscape or choose which stones to use for a stone path.

Additionally, you can choose from nine different types of bulk mulch — a much larger variety offered than many garden centers — plus soil amendments, aggregates and sand. Whispering Hills also offers delivery — same day in most cases — and installation services.

As always, staff members will be on hand to assist

you every step of the way, Ducey says.

“If [customers] need something to hide their neighbor’s garbage can, we can point them in the right direction,” Ducey says. “Or, if they need everything, we can help with that, too.”

Every year, Whispering Hills strives to improve the garden center in some way, Anderson says. This year, the company redesigned the checkout area into a more convenient space, making it easier to shop and checkout.

Whispering Hills is also offering exciting items, including bubbler systems that are quite popular, Anderson says. They require less maintenance than ponds and can be custom-built to fit any space.

Of course, custom projects are always

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Whispering Hills Garden and Landscape Center 8401 IL Route 31 • Crystal Lake (a 1/4 mile south of Rakow Road)

www.whisperinghillsnursery.com 847-658-5610 Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ whisperinghillsgardencenter or Pinterest at pinterest.com/ whisphills.

Spring Hours Monday through Friday: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Saturday: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Sunday: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

trending, and Whispering Hills has specialized crews that can build outdoor kitchens, bars, built-in grills, seating areas and even outdoor TVs, Ducey says.

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Tips to take with you

It’s important to be a part of the process by asking questions and getting to know your landscape, Ducey says.

For those DIYers, the following tips are extremely important. a Pay attention to your surroundings.

Ducey says asking yourself several questions ahead of time can help sort out the design process and determine what plants will work best. Does the majority of your yard fall in the shade or sun? Where does the water collect?

Where do your kids and pets like to hang out? a Do your homework.

Put a shovel in the ground and see what’s underneath that layer of grass, Ducey says.

Are you lucky enough to strike gold and have dark, rich soil? Or do you have an inch of dirt and then clay? If you’re not sure what’s there, Ducey suggests bringing in a sample of dirt to Whispering Hills for analysis.

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incorporate, and make sure to use help when needed. You don’t want to make a costly mistake that will exceed your budget.

a Know what you want.

While you may not know exactly which plants to put in the front of your house or which to use off to the side, know some of the basics. Do you want to bring in shade trees to help with cooling your home? Or do you want an open place to sunbathe? Do you need an entertainment area with a large patio? Or do you need lots of grass for your children and pets?

The best advice is to follow a plan, Ducey says. Whether it’s a one-year plan or 10-year plan, knowing what your ultimate goal is will help keep you on track.

And never be afraid to ask for assistance, he says.

“Call us with questions,” Ducey says. “Our knowledge is here.”

a Be prepared to make an investment.

Go into your project understanding the price points of the features you want to

Trends to look for What will be trending this spring planting season?

Drought-resistant plants will be very popular, says garden center manager Sean Ducey.

“It takes something like [last year’s drought] to wake people up,” he says. “It gets people thinking about putting in more hardy varieties like natives.”

Some native plants to the McHenry County area include coneflowers; grasses; oak; maple; juniper and pine, Ducey says.

Helping Hands For the past three years, Whispering Hills has been working with Habitat for Humanity by installing complete landscapes for five houses built by community volunteers. Whispering Hills employees come up with a unique design plan and execute it, then explain to the new homeowner how to maintain their outdoor space. It’s a small gesture Whispering Hills is proud to make to the community, says vice president Michelle Anderson. mc

women in business / Women Of Distinction

Meet The 2013 Winners Of

of WOMEN distinction

5 The 2013 recipients of McHenry County Magazine’s Women of Distinction are (back row, from left) Donna Frett, Vicki Nielsen, Catherine Williams, Kelly Weaver and Susan Dalton. Seated are (from left) Susan Milford and Camille Caffarelli .

Photos by BETHANY DETERT

By McHenry County Magazine

Last year, McHenry County Magazine began a journey to honor the women who have a passion to better their community.

It was determined that females who had made a difference in McHenry County and who were representative role models as leaders in their fields and communities should be awarded for their efforts. After polling local businesses, chambers of commerce, leadership groups and members of the community, nearly 45 women were nominated to receive recognition.

Seven of those nominees became the inaugural McHenry County Magazine Women of Distinction.

As word spread about the caliber of leadership, talent and passion of each of the award winners, the opportunity to celebrate their successes at a special luncheon became an exciting chance for others to congratulate the recipients. In fact, 218 community members gathered to show their support for our winners, who included: Kay Rial Bates of the McHenry Area Chamber of Commerce; Nancy Fike of the McHenry County Historical Society; Suzanne Hoban of Family Health Partnership Clinic; Diana Kenney of Downtown Crystal Lake Main Street; Lorraine Kopczynski of Pioneer Center for Human Services; Cheryl Niemo of Jail Brakers; and Charie Zanck of American Community Bank and Trust.

This year, McHenry County Magazine is privileged to continue the tradition of honoring those who have given their time and talents to create nonprofit organizations, head local advisory boards, volunteer at activities and businesses outside of their own workplace and, most of all,

lead by example.

Seven new women — from a pool of 60 nominees — have been selected by a special committee to form the second class of McHenry County Magazine Women of Distinction.

In the following pages, you will meet each of our winners, and in subsequent months, you will find a special, in-depth feature dedicated to a different honoree.

To further honor these exceptional women, McHenry County Magazine will host an awards luncheon from 11:15 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Wednesday, May 8, at Crystal Lake Country Club in Crystal Lake.

The keynote speaker will be Kasthuri Henry, an engaging writer, speaker, professor and experienced international corporate executive who has spoken to thousands of business professionals throughout the country. She was awarded for her contributions to the business world as the Financial Executive of the Year for the Mid-America region in 2006, and she currently is the president of KasHenry Inc., a local business focused on business performance management and leadership development.

The community is welcome to join McHenry County Magazine in celebrating the achievements of our seven Women of Distinction and listen to our renowned guest speaker. Tickets cost $35. For more information or to purchase a ticket, call 815-526-4445.

Camille Caffarelli

City of residence: Crystal Lake Organization/company/corporation: Horizons for the Blind

Camille Caffarelli is an accomplished entrepreneur. The founder of Horizons for the Blind — a nonprofit established in 1977 to improve the quality of life for the blind and visually impaired — she also is the executive director of the organization, which produces approximately 30,000 monthly statements in braille and large print for utility companies and banks. Caffarelli, who is blind herself, has a staff of more than 50 people, 60 percent of whom are blind or visually impaired. On top of being a wife and mother to three sons, Caffarelli also has served as a technical consultant to The Smithsonian Institution, the Museum of Science and Industry, the Chicago Historical Society, Brookfield and Lincoln Park zoos and more.

“Ms. Caffarelli has been honored by Lions International, Chicago Jaycees, City of Chicago Honor Roll of Women’s Division of the Joint Civic Committee of ItalianAmerican, and has received the Mary McCann Award, the Impressa Award and the August Christmann Award,” her nominator writes.

Susan Dalton

City of residence: Marengo Organization/company/corporation: Illinois TransVision Program

Susan Dalton is a proud wife and parent of three grown children who has become an advocate for the blind and visually impaired. Though two of her children were born with a genetic condition called albinism that results in legal blindness, Dalton never faltered in her belief in their abilities. She went back to college as an adult to earn a master’s degree in rehabilitation teaching of the blind and visually impaired, and in 1999, she was personally selected to develop and run a first-of-its-kind statewide transition initiative for students who are blind or visually impaired. As the director of the Illinois TransVision Program for the past 14 years, Dalton has spearheaded several innovative programs that have made her organization a national model of how to deliver top quality services to youth who are blind or visually impaired.

“I believe that her personal and professional accomplishments reflect true leadership and a quest for lifelong learning,” writes her nominator.

Donna Frett

City of residence: McHenry Organization/company/corporation: Donna Frett Organ Donation Foundation

The short version of Donna Frett’s story is that the McHenry resident received a liver transplant in 2005 and started her own foundation to bring awareness to organ donation. A slightly longer version explains that the Donna Frett Organ Donation Foundation consistently has raised money to spread awareness — by sharing facts such as 117,041 people are waiting for an organ, and 18 people will die each day waiting for an organ — and improve the lives of those affected by organ and tissue donations. More than $78,000 has been donated to Restoring Hope Transplant House, the Illinois Eye Bank, the University of Wisconsin Organ Procurement Organization and other organizations.

“She’s incredible!” writes Frett’s nominator.

Susan Milford

City of residence: Crystal Lake Organization/company/corporation: Centegra Health System

As the senior vice president of strategy and development for Centegra Health System, Susan Milford is a leader in a field largely dominated by men at the top. She oversees the Centegra Foundation Donors Development Council, and her decisions regarding donations and sponsorships that Centegra provides throughout the county have made an impact on thousands of lives. She also is a dedicated mother and active community volunteer, sitting on the boards of Leadership Greater McHenry County, Big Brothers Big Sisters McHenry County and the McHenry County Economic Development Corporation.

Vicki Nielsen

City of residence: Hebron Organization/company/corporation: McHenry Financial

The list of organizations to which Vicki Nielsen volunteers her time is lengthy enough to cause one to believe she volunteers full-time. She is the chair of the McHenry County Chamber of Commerce’s Women’s Interactive Networking Group, or WINGS; the secretary of the McHenry County Task Force on Aging; a PTO member of Alden-Hebron School District 19; Cub Scout leader of Hebron Park 606; a board member of the Alden-Hebron Softball/Baseball League; and more. In her spare time, she raises her two young children with her husband and is a partner of McHenry Financial.

Nielsen recently received the McHenry Chamber of Commerce’s Red Carpet Award for community service and ethics, writes her nominator. “She spoke of ... making a difference to many in our community while running a business and raising a family,” he writes.

Kelly Weaver

City of residence: Cary Organization/company/corporation: The Alexander Leigh Center For Autism

Not only is Kelly Weaver a cancer survivor and widow, but the Cary resident is the proud mother of Gillian, her teenage daughter who is autistic. Determined to provide a place where children with autism can reach their full potential, Weaver and Dorie Hoevel, another local mother with an autistic child, designed and opened the Alexander Leigh Center for Autism, a therapeutic day school for autistic youth in McHenry County. The school bears the middle names of Weaver and Hoevel’s children – Gillian Leigh and Zachary Alexander. “[Kelly’s] story is too great in detail for me to validate her triumphant struggles and intense pursuit over the years to provide schooling for autistic children in need of expert teachers to care, educate and love the kids and families of special needs,” her nominator writes.

Catherine Williams

City of residence: Crystal Lake Organization/company/corporation: Crystal Lake Food Pantry

Catherine Williams has a full-time job, but that hasn’t stopped her from leading the Crystal Lake Food Pantry as its president for the past five years. Behind the scenes, she volunteers her time to make sure there is food for those in need at all times, even unloading deliveries when necessary. She also helps organize events like the pantry’s Community Harvest, an annual fall food and funds drive hosted on Thanksgiving Day, which last year raised $19,377 and gathered 85,985 pounds of food to serve the hungry in Crystal Lake.

“Cate’s unending drive and vision to help as many people as possible is clear in the tireless effort that she puts in year-round overseeing the operations of the Crystal Lake Food Pantry,” her nominator writes. mc

home & lifestyle

REMEMBERING

6 Capt. David F. Burdloff

Memorial Day

I By LARA JACKSON

T

I

o many, Memorial Day means summer has arrived with its festivals and fairs, parades, outdoor concerts and long, warm summer evenings.

6 Hanson endured more than 20 surgeries during a two and a half year stay at Fitzsimmons General Hospital in Denver, Colo., to overcome wounds suffered in Vietnam.

But, to others, Memorial Day is a somber holiday — a day of remembrance.

This year’s Memorial Day will mark the 145th year of the holiday, which originally was called Decoration Day. According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, “… on May 5, 1868 … the Grand Army of the Republic established Decoration Day as a day for the nation to decorate the graves of the war dead with flowers.”

By the end of the 19th century, Memorial Day was celebrated May 30 each year throughout the U.S., but it wasn’t until after World War I that the holiday included all who have died in American wars, the USDVA says.

Memorial Day was declared a national holiday in 1971 by Congress and placed on the last Monday in May.

In The Eyes Of Vets

A common way many communities celebrate this day of remembrance is with Memorial Day festivals and parades, though some celebrations have become smaller throughout the years.

“Unfortunately, because many of the vets from World War II and Korea are gone and the Vietnam vets never received a lot of recognition, the parades have gotten smaller,” says John Hanson of Woodstock, who served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War. “We need to get more people involved.”

That doesn’t mean that people aren’t

honoring veterans though.

“In general, there seems to be more patriotism and celebration toward those in the service — this is on a whole, not just about Memorial Day,” says Dave Burdloff of Crystal Lake, who served a year in Vietnam.

However, “every day” patriotism may have decreased the significance of the holiday, says Burdloff’s wife, Connie.

“Even though it’s great that vets are now given so much credit for their service, that, in a way, takes away from the significance of Memorial Day, which used to be a very special holiday,” she says.

She suggests that Crystal Lake “line the streets

3 (Facing page) John Hanson of Woodstock is a Vietnam veteran who continues to serve VFW post 5040 as a trustee.

with flags” for Memorial Day like the city does for the Fourth of July.

“This really makes a statement,” she says.

Hanson says getting youth involved is a way to keep the holiday from losing support.

“I’m always encouraging other vets to become involved with their local club again,” Hanson says. “Another way we can help those remember Memorial Day is to teach the kids — a few of the guys from the club and I visit the schools and talk about our service.”

Overall, Memorial Day continues to have strong meaning for veterans.

“For me, the holiday is a day to celebrate those who gave the ultimate sacrifice,” Burdloff says.

Hanson agrees.

“Memorial Day reminds me of all of my best friends and uncles whom I lost,” he says.

5 (Above from left) Hanson served in the 1st Infantry Division and was active from 1965 to 1970. Burdloff served in the 57th Transportation Co. and was active from 1969 to 1970.

6 At right, below, is a Christmas card sent to Hanson that recounts an incident in combat.

Remember those who served at some of these local Memorial Day celebrations: Crystal Lake American Legion Post 171 Memorial Day Parade and Cemetery Service 11 a.m. Monday, May 27, in Crystal Lake The parade will begin at Crystal Lake South High School, 1200 S. McHenry Ave. Following the parade, a memorial service will take place at Union Cemetery located at 8012 Ridgefield Road.

For more information, call 815-459-2020 or visit www.crystallake.org.

5 (At left and above) After the war, members of Burdloff’s company compiled a book of photos from their time in Vietnam.

Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony 10 a.m. Monday, May 27, in Woodstock A Memorial Day parade will begin at Woodstock Square, at the corner of N. Benton Street and Cass Street. For more information call 815-624-6325.

Memorial Day Parade and Ceremony 11 a.m. Monday, May 27, in Huntley Sponsored by Huntley American Legion Post 673, the parade will start at the parking lot of the Municipal Complex at 10987 Main St. and travel west on Main Street to the Town Square. For more information, call Patrick Conley at 815-802-8280, the American Legion Hall at 847-669-8485 or email post673@huntleylegion.org.

Combined Veterans Memorial Day Ceremony 10 a.m. Monday, May 27, in McHenry This annual event will begin at Veterans Memorial Park, 1450 Court St., with a brief parade and the laying of a wreath at Woodlawn Cemetery and in the Fox River. It will conclude with the playing of taps and a rifle salute. For more information, call 815-363-2100 or visit www.ci.mchenry.il.us.

Memorial Day Events in Johnsburg 9 a.m. Monday, May 27, in Johnsburg Johnsburg VFW Post 11496 will host a variety of activities to celebrate Memorial Day. At 9 a.m., attendees can view the Riverfront Opening Ceremony from Chapel Hill Bridge and 7 Days Market river apron or from boats on the west side of the river. Flying aircraft will be a part of the ceremony. The parade will begin at 9:30 and head to the Johnsburg Community Center at 2315 W. Church St. for the rest of the day’s events. Antique and military vehicles will be on display during a picnic and baseball games following the parade. There also will be free hot dogs and soda. For more information, visit www. johnsburgvfw.org/memorial_day.html. mc

5 Connie Burdloff shares a laugh with her husband, Dave.

home & lifestyle / ARTIST profile

By AMANDA MARRAZZO

Art Evolving

A

s a child, Mary Ann Telfer began expressing her creativity using items not necessarily meant for art, but rather intended for men’s tailored shirts.

“I have early memories of being about 3 years old and drawing on the white cardboard cards that came inside my dad’s and brother’s dress shirts,” the McHenry artist recalls. “By the time I got to college, there really was nothing else I wanted to major in [but art] — it didn’t feel like a choice.”

Today, Telfer is on her way to earning a master’s degree in fine art from the Vermont College of Fine Arts. She also creates and teaches art in various locations including her own private studio, at McHenry County College and at the Northern Illinois Special Recreation Association in Crystal Lake.

NISRA gives out awards each year in honor of its five core values that represent its staff members — compassionate, innovative, professional, fun and trustworthy. The organization recently presented Telfer with its 2013 “Compassionate” award.

“Mary [was] given this award because she has an amazing personal connection with each of our students with special needs, and she graciously shares a lot of her time and talents with NISRA,” Emily Todd, manager of cultural arts and special events for NISRA, writes in an email. “Mary also donates art supplies to the ‘Art Explorations’ program that she teaches. Mary is very thoughtful and takes the time to get to know her students. [She] takes the time to plan adaptations for all ability levels, which really means a lot to us and the students.”

An evolving style Telfer’s style and inspiration are constantly evolving.

While nature, shapes and colors continually weave through her art, she now finds herself looking at art in a different way.

She is influenced by what she is studying, which currently is feminism and feminist agency, or the equality among all animals, including people, labor and corporate structure.

“Since starting my MFA, I’ve changed the most,” says Telfer, 52. “I used to do florals and landscape and am still somewhat inspired by nature, but I’m

35 (Opposite page, below and images on page 35) “These ... are my newest work, which are medium-sized photographs of a surreal world I’ve created. My concepts are about equality and acceptance for all types of animals (people),” says Mary Ann Telfer.

looking at art in a different way. I’m thinking more about the concept and what I want to say first, then [figuring out] what medium matches that, rather than [saying], I want a pastel … what will it be about?”

Telfer says this current approach to her art is the direct influence of working with Faith Wilding, Telfer’s faculty advisor at Vermont

College of Fine Arts.

Wilding was part of a movement in the art world in the early 1970s and part of the very first feminist art project, Telfer says.

“She influenced my reading and my discussions and, therefore, that influenced my art,” Telfer says of Wilding, whom she describes as a “rock star” of the art world. “I feel lucky that I know her.”

In one current expression of her 6 “This is one of my most recent art, Telfer has combined objects, pastels I did in the summer of 2012. such as tiny doll hands and arms, It is 22 inches by 30 inches. It was with items found outside such as inspired by a part albino robin that pine cones and twigs. hung out in my yard all last summer.

She’s assembled them, creating a “surreal world,” then photographed her unique displays.

“My concepts are about equality and acceptance for all types of animals, people,” she says.

Collaboration art

Over the years, Telfer has expressed herself through water colors, photography, power point, mixed media and, most recently, collaboration art.

She says she wants to connect with her art on a deeper level and hopes to “have other people connect to it” as well.

“I enjoy doing collaboration art — translating ideas to share with my McHenry County arts community,” she says. “I am engaging with my community of students and artist friends to both support and actively assist in the realization of my new studio projects, sometimes using humor and irreverence.”

May 2013 • McHenry County Magazine

33

Here comes the fun!

Year after year, smiles return to faces at Swedish Days, Geneva’s Midsommar Festival.

And all your favorite events return too, including great June 18 - 23, 2013 live music, carnival rides, the parade, Sweden Väst plus children’s games & events.

Also back by popular demand is Radio Disney, our Geneva’s Got Talent contest and Ziplining Down Third!

Visit www.genevachamber.com for a complete event schedule.

Fun, fun, fun, here it comes!

A picture postcard .™ 1-866-443-6382

www.visitgenevaillinois.com

In her role as art teacher, she finds herself exploring collaboration art, in which artists walk through the creative process together and become part of the emotion Mary Ann Telfer and connection of the outcome together as well, she explains.

“I like people, and doing art by yourself in your studio can get lonely,” she says. “A lot of artists go through that.”

To that end, Telfer offers “Monday Open Studio” groups where she and other artists brainstorm, make art and work together on projects each week.

Collaboration art — more specifically described as working together with other artists to create public art — is a throwback to the work of Allan Kaprow, an artist and creator of performance art from the 1950s and ’60s who created hundreds of “Happenings,” Telfer says.

With this type of artistic expression, the public becomes part of the art and the end result.

Kaprow’s work, Telfer explains, was developed at a time when people were asking, “What is art?” The idea of Kaprow’s performance art was that the public’s reaction was a key part of the art.

Sharing her knowledge

As Telfer continues to tackle issues of labor and corporate structure or feminist agency within her studio work, she also explores new forms of production, performance activity and display, she says.

“My work has recently ranged from a deeply personal daily practice, which integrates walking, collection, documentation and writing, to a comedic critique of my work as an art teacher ...” she says.

She continues to share her experiences and knowledge with local artists, friends and students.

Kay Benoy of Woodstock has been Telfer’s student for years, Benoy says.

Currently, Benoy, a photographer, is working on charcoal drawings of her photos.

She says Telfer teaches with an openended approach, reassuring students that there are no mistakes in art.

“She’s just been a gift to all her students,” Benoy says. “She kind of opens

34 McHenry County Magazine • May 2013

McHenryCountyMagazine.com

up the world for us.”

Kathy Kenney of Streamwood began taking art classes with Telfer about six years ago when she taught at Elgin Community College.

“She’s very unique,” Kenney says. “The thing that’s different about Mary is she believes that everyone is innately an artist and that they just haven’t been encouraged in a way that allows them to express that. She is very tuned into different people and different styles. She is very encouraging. It is just like a special kind of energy that she has.” mc

LIKE IT? Telfer’s work is available for purchase at www. etsy.com and can be found by typing in marytelferart. To learn more about Telfer, visit www.telfleur.com.

35 (Left, above and images on page 33) “These ... are my newest work, which are medium-sized photographs of a surreal world I’ve created. My concepts are about equality and acceptance for all types of animals (people),” says Mary Ann Telfer.

McHenryCountyMagazine.com

May 2013 • McHenry County Magazine

35

home & lifestyle

Wine, women

& wineries

It

wasn’t long ago that wine making was a boy’s club with the ladies sentenced to such locations as Kentucky (the hot bed of winemaking — just kidding) to hone their craft.

Thankfully, a few wineries realized that women could make wine as well as anyone, and they opened their doors.

While others were before her, Helen Turley really opened eyes by becoming the founding winemaker at Peter Michael Winery where she crafted some of California’s most exciting wines.

The press and collectors fell in love with these wines and thus started a craze California wasn’t ready for – mailing lists and waiting lists. Who was this girl? Or, better yet, how do we get this kind of attention?

Helen went on to wave her magic wand at Pahlmeyer Winery, Turley Wine Cellars and Bryant Family, giving each instant rock-star status. Though she has left all these projects, her footprint will always be there.

Delia Viader took a different route. After graduating from the University of California, Davis — the breeding ground for the most brilliant wine making minds — she harvested some family money and started her own winery.

Fame came quickly as Wine Spectator, the industry bible, placed her wine in the “top five” three years in a row in its highly coveted “top 100.”

Thankfully, these artists have been given a blank canvas to tell their stories, and with each bottle we drink, we learn a little more — and like it.

Try some of these wines that have females in the driver’s seat.

McHenryCountyMagazine.com

Joel Gott — Cabernet Sauvignon

in the mouth inviting a luxurious finish.

$15 Alisa Jacobson is now at the helm after working alongside Sarah Gott at Joseph Phelps and Gott wines. We sought out these wines even before they were in the Chicago market on the advise of a winery insider who told us this might just be the next big thing. Thanks to Alisa, even as production has grown, she has managed to make wines that continue to over-deliver for their prices. Brooding, ripe dark fruit explodes on the palate surrendering to a long, rich finish kissed with chocolate and oak.

Honig — Sauvignon Blanc $15

During last year’s heat wave, we drank so much of this I was thinking we should have just had an IV hooked up to give us a steady drip.

It’s so ripe and juicy, you’d think you were being water boarded with loads of rich tropical fruit.

Kristin Belair has put Honig on the “sure bet” list.

LaCrema — Chardonnay $17

Hollywood and Vine — Short Ends $40

When it comes to rock stars, it don’t get no bigger than Celia Welch. Her clients are a “who’s who” of the biggest names in Napa Valley. The taste is luxurious, flamboyant and seductive, all wrapped up in one sexy wine. Intense fruit erupts in the mouth, coating the palate before exposing a finish kissed with c ocoa powder and toasted oak.

Mutt Lynch — Zinfandel $20

OK, so we are suckers for all things dog — but that doesn’t mean we’ll drink anything just cause there is a dog on the label. Mutt Lynch is just what we want in our zins — a deep, dark and rich taste laying down a layer of fruit on our tongue with a generous touch of espresso on the finish. With part of the profits going toward animal shelters, how can you go wrong? Brenda Lynch — winemaker — dog lover — friend. mc

Sometimes, winemakers who make big production wines don’t get the credit they deserve. To create a wine that delivers the A Little Bird Told Me goods while producing hundreds of thousands with Cardinal Wine & Spirits of cases is real talent. Elizabeth GrantDouglas continues to make a rich, creamy • Bruce Garfield, president chardonnay that shows no sign of being of Cardinal Wine & Spirits in Crystal Lake; Jeremy Brock, mass-produced.

Bridesmaid — White $20

Pam Starr has garnered a cult following with this whimsical label. This Bordeauxstyle wine is a blend of sauvignon blanc and semilion. Ripe, luscious fruit blossoms

general manager of Cardinal Wine & Spirits; and Scot Stadalsky, the wine guy at Cardinal Wine & Spirits, offer more than 70 years of combined experience in the wine and liquor industry to McHenry County.

38 McHenry County Magazine • May 2013

McHenryCountyMagazine.com

Put A Fork In It

home & lifestyle

with David Faccone • David Faccone is the owner/chef of Crystal Lake Rib House and brings 30 years of experience in the restaurant business to McHenry County.

Full Lunch:

3 Pictured is Mongolian Beef on a Chinese bun.

Photos by Zach Walters

Five Bucks!

F

or nine years now, Lixia and Qian Liang have owned New Peking Take Out on the corner of Walkup and Route 176 in Crystal Lake.

They are tucked in the same strip mall as 7-11, Subway and Brian Coyle’s UPS store. Last month, they took another storefront and opened a full sit-down restaurant.

Qian (pronounced Quin), a trained chef, learned his trade in south China near Hong Kong. He came here in 1987 and worked in Chicago’s Chinatown, and then he brought over his wife, Lixia (pronounced Lisa), shortly thereafter.

These two are a great couple and are certainly the real deal. She speaks softly; he screams. She moves quietly around the restaurant; he moves like a flying tornado.

In the kitchen, over those flaming woks, he looks like a magician, moving, talking and turning out awesome dishes.

Over the years, I’ve had take out many times, and it is always good. The new entrees he’s doing now are really spectacular. New Peking is the only restaurant in the area serving Peking Duck, and it is awesome.

The dining room is open for lunch and dinner, and the prices are extremely reasonable. The lunch specials are

ridiculously cheap. Check this out: a full lunch entree with a soft drink, fried rice, egg roll and fortune cookie is just $5.10 to $5.85! And the take out is just a dollar more.

Gimme a break — McDonald’s can’t even do that. I told you, this guy’s a mad man. I go in there with three friends, and we leave stuffed for about $20. Unbelievable.

It is quickly becoming a hit with the ladies’ lunch groups, and now even the high school kids have made it a favorite. When I’m on the go, rather than a fast food burger, I go here because it’s much better food for the same price. Yeah, I’m eating Chinese about three times a week now.

A few of my favorites here are the Mongolian Beef on a Chinese bun, General

4 New Peking Take Out is the only restaurant in the area serving Peking Duck.

Tso’s Chicken and anything Szechwan. My boys love the chicken noodle soup because it’s so loaded with noodles, they can eat it with a fork. And the big bonus is that since the restaurant went full service, they have beer and wines. My favorite beer is Lucky Buddha, but it has Tsingtao as well as American beers and wine.

This place is great; I highly recommend it. More than likely, you’ll see me at the big round table with my family and friends when I visit. Come in for the lunch, and you’ll be back for dinner.

Call Lixia at 815-459-6618; for the GPS, it’s located at 40 W. Terra Cotta Ave., in Crystal Lake. mc

W

health

Say ‘I Love You, Mom’

The Healthy Way

By JAMI KUNZER • Photos by MELISSA EMORY 40 McHenry County Magazine • May 2013

hen it comes to breakfast-in-bed on Mother’s Day, it doesn’t take much to please Chef Marilia Arguedas of Algonquin.

A piece of toast with butter and perhaps a cup of tea from her children, 9-year-old Adrian and 11-year-old Sergio.

“I love it,” she says. “It’s the way they return what I do for them every day, so it’s so cute.”

But with a bit of help, and some of Arguedas’ recipes, children can really pamper Mom with some of their own creations.

The owner of Artiasan Meals, a personal chef service that serves the Chicago area, Arguedas also teaches life skills, including cooking, at Einstein Academy in Elgin.

Growing up in Costa Rica and nurtured by Italian culture, with one side of her family immigrating decades ago from Italy, Arguedas loves the Latin-Italian fusion of food.

She knew she wanted to be a chef at a young age, when she’d cook for family and friends. But her parents discouraged her because while living in Costa Rica, they felt it was a “profession for servants,” Argueda says.

So, she pursued a career in international marketing before becoming a mother. When her children were born, she became a stay-at-home mother.

Yet, through the years, cooking remained her passion.

So, when her kids became a bit older, “I decided to follow my dream,” she says. She attended Cordon Blue, College of Culinary Arts, graduating in 2011. She then created Artisan Meals.

“As much as I wish to have a restaurant, I can’t because I have two little kids,” she says. “A restaurant needs a lot of attention, and I don’t have the time right now, being a mom and a teacher … . I decided to become a personal chef. It’s a great opportunity to offer my services. It’s working for me right now. My dream is to open a restaurant in the future.”

She says she enjoys making her own hours through her personal chef service, which allows her to do what she’s always loved — cook for people.

Though he’s too young to help with the business, Arguedas’ youngest son, Adrian, enjoys cooking with his mother. Like his mother, she says, “He loves to have people coming over and offering food and serving.”

And through teaching, Aguedas says she’s seen how being involved in the kitchen can help children become healthier eaters.

“When kids are hands-on and they’re learning how to cook and they see things, how you make them, they’re willing to try,” she says. “Once they try, they realize they like it.”

McHenryCountyMagazine.com

Following are a few of Arguedas’ recipe suggestions for Mother’s Day meals:

Powdered sugar minutes until you see the milk is tea-colored. Discard Powdered cinnamon tea bags. Add honey and serve tea.

Maple syrup Fresh fruit of your choice (bananas or any kind of SUPER BERRY SMOOTHIE (for 4 people) DOUBLE DECKER FRUITY PARFAIT berry is recommended) (4 servings) Ingredients: 2 cups frozen berries Directions: Ingredients: 2 cups fat-free Greek vanilla yogurt Heat oven to 400 F. 12 ounces strawberry yogurt 2 tablespoons sugar or Splenda In a bowl, add eggs, milk, oil, almond extract, 12 ounces blueberry yogurt vanilla, sugar and 8 tablespoons of your favorite granola a pinch of salt.

1 1/2 cups of your favorite diced fresh fruit Mix with a whisk (Facing page) Multigrain French Toast Directions: or fork until a Put 3 ounces of strawberry yogurt in a glass. Place homogeneous and (Below) Extra Power Breakfast Sandwich bubbly batter forms. 1 tablespoon of the diced fruit on top, and on top of Using your hands, that, add 1 tablespoon of granola. Repeat, but with the other yogurt, finishing with granola. Make sure dunk each bread the glass is covered to the top. slice, soaking both sides. Don’t leave THE EXTRA POWER BREAKFAST the bread soaking SANDWICH (for 4 people) in the batter or the bread will become Ingredients: mushy.

4 whole eggs On medium4 slices of your favorite cheese high heat and on a 4 slices of ham or ready-to-eat bacon slightly oil-covered, 1 whole French baguette nonstick pan, cook 2 cups arugula both sides until 8 slices tomato golden.

Salt Place toast on Pepper a baking sheet 1 teaspoon oil or oven tray and Directions: bake for about 7 Cut French baguette along the long side, dividing to 9 minutes. For a it in two. Set aside. crisper finish, bake Scramble egss. Add salt and pepper to taste.

2 more minutes.

Take one baguette side and evenly distribute Cut each bread the eggs, cheese, bacon or ham and tomato slices, slice in half with a bread knife, forming adding salt and pepper to taste and arugula. Put the other baguette side on top.

1/2 cup water two triangles per slice. Make sure you don’t smash Carefully cut baguette in four pieces and serve Whipped cream the toasts while cutting them. Grab them from the immediately.

12 blueberries edges to cut.

4 small mint leaves Plating Tips Directions: 6 Chef When plating, it is recommended to use In a blender, add all ingredients except the Marila Arguedas odd numbers per serving. In this case, serve whipped cream, blueberries and mint leaves. graduated 3 French toast triangles per plate.

Blend for about 50 seconds until the mix becomes from Cordon In the center of the plate, arrange the one solid color. Add more water, if needed. Adding Blue, College of triangles with the “peak corners” facing the more or less water will define how thick you want Culinary Arts same side, slightly, but not completely, on the smoothie. in 2011 and top of the other. then created Plating Tips Garnish the top of the French toast with Artisan Meals, Serve in glasses, but don’t fill them all the way up. fresh cut fruit. a personal chef Make sure you leave about two inches between the Using a small colander or shaker, pour service. smoothie and the glass rim. sugar and cinnamon on top.

Carefully spray whipped cream on top, in a circular Serve hot. You can pour hot maple syrup motion, from the outside to the inside. or serve on the side in a small container.

On top of the whipped cream, decorate with three blueberries and a small mint leaf.

COMFORTING HONEY WARM

CRISPY and HEALTHY MULTIGRAIN FRENCH TOAST with hot maple syrup and Fruit (4 servings)

Ingredients: 6 thick multigrain bread slices (better if frozen when cooking) 2 whole eggs 2/3 cup of milk 2 tablespoons canola oil 1/4 teaspoon almond extract 1/4 teaspoon vanilla 2 tablespoons regular sugar Pinch of salt

MILK TEA (4 servings)

Ingredients: 8 black tea bags 8 tablespoons of honey 3 cups of milk 1 cup of water Directions: In a microwave, heat in one container milk and water for about 2 minutes. Put the tea bags in and heat up again uncovered.

You could heat the milk/water on a regular stove top pan, too.

After heating, let tea bags rest for few

6 Arguedas stands with her sons Adrian, 9, and Sergio, 11.

The Basics Of Plating Chef Marilia Arguedas considers plating food an art.

Plating, or the way you present food to patrons after cooking, matters, she says.

“Improper plating might cause a predetermination on how the food might taste and have a negative impact,” she says.

According to Arguedas, when planning how to plate, you must consider:

1. Color Harmony

When plating, have three to four colors on the plate. How do you identify the colors? Consider these three sources: A. The food served B. The sauce or garnishes used C. The plate color To identify the food colors, Super Berry Smoothie you just need to see what you are serving. For example, if serving pasta with pesto, it’s green and white. If serving pancakes and eggs, it’s yellows and whites.

In order to obtain color harmony, you could add garnishes as decoration or as another ingredient.

Just make sure it blends well with the food.

For example, to the pasta and pesto (green and white), add a vibrant red color, such as fresh diced

42 McHenry County Magazine • May 2013

tomato. To pancakes and eggs (yellows and whites), add colorful fruit on the side and/or bacon for some brown.

2. Textures

Usually, when you think texture, you think touch.

When plating, however, basically you understand texture with your eyes and palates, not with your hands.

For example, if serving steak with mashed potatoes, don’t add another mashed vegetable. To the eye, two mashed foods don’t look good together.

Steak, mashed potatoes and cauliflower puree won’t look good. But steak, cauliflower puree, and beet and carrot salad will have texture harmony.

3. Height

These days, a “flat” plate looks boring, unappealing.

Add some height to food, not just with garnishes, but by how creatively the food is cooked.

For example, if serving rice pilaf and chicken with asparagus, rice can become a base in the center of the plate forming a little mountain. Sit the chicken on top. Lay the asparagus on the side but standing sideways. That’s how you can add height to your food.

Crispy fried onions on top of the chicken will provide even more height.

4. Food combination

A protein, a carbohydrate and a fruit or a vegetable is recommended. These three elements together are considered a complete healthy meal.

Also, this opens up choices.

A serving in a regular, non-restricted healthy diet should include 30 percent protein, 15 percent carbohydrates and 55 percent fruits or vegetables.

Most proteins are brown in color after cooked; carbohydrates are white; and fruits and vegetables give us the wide range and versatility to find the best garnish or side dish for the best plating ever. mc

For more on Artisan Meals, the personal chef service owned by Chef Marilia Arguedas, call 847226-6689, email info@artisanmeals.com or visit artisanmeals.com.

McHenryCountyMagazine.com

May 2013 • McHenry County Magazine

43

health

The Rise Of The

Midwife T rust, mutual respect, communication, similar goals and support are some of the signs of a healthy relationship, whether it’s with a significant other, boss or doctor.

When it’s time to bring a new package of protoplasm into the world, these markers may be even more crucial to ensure a happy, healthy pregnancy and birth.

Enter midwifery, a profession so ancient that it’s referenced in the Old Testament of the Bible, and one that’s gaining popularity in 21st century America.

In addition to administering necessary tests and health monitoring during appointments, a midwife provides something else that’s in short supply these days — time.

44 McHenry County Magazine • May 2013

“Since we spend more time with them, we develop a relationship with a woman and her family throughout the course of the pregnancy,” says Gretchen Dabrowski, who, along with Rebecca Rose, is a nurse-midwife at the office of Dr. George L. Stankevych in McHenry. “Nurse-midwives spend a lot more time attending delivery, too.”

That very time factor is why Rebecca Rose went into midwifery.

“When I was pregnant with my first child, I felt that having a female provider was important to me because she spends more time with patients overall and time listening to the patient,” the Algonquin resident says. “That was 25 years ago, when I was in Chicago, and even at that time, Rush, Cook County Hospital, Illinois Masonic and many other Chicago hospitals

I By JACKY RUNICE I

McHenryCountyMagazine.com

6 “Since we spend more time with them, we develop a relationship with a woman and her family throughout the course of the pregnancy,” says Gretchen Dabrowski, a nurse-midwife at the office of Dr. George L. Stankevych in McHenry.

had nurse-midwives. I thought it would be cool to go into the profession and got my master’s [degree] in 1998.”

She notes that midwifery is fairly new to McHenry County, taking hold around 1999.

Dabrowski, meanwhile, was a labor and delivery nurse for many years, attended graduate school and earned a master’s degree in nursing and midwifery in 2009.

“I felt that getting a graduate degree was important for continuity of care as well as for overall women’s health and the dynamics of family,” the McHenry resident says.

profession much better than they did 20 years ago.

Both women want people to understand that midwives take care of low-risk women, but if a patient develops any risk factor, a doctor — like Dr. George L. Stankevych — is immediately available and is always involved in the care.

In actuality, mothers-to-be are getting three caregivers, not just one.

“Of course, care varies quite a bit with every practice,” Rose says, “but Gretchen, Dr. Stankevych and I work very closely together, and any emergency is attended by the doctor.”

The myths of midwifery

Added benefits

According to the American College of NurseMidwives, midwife myths and misconceptions still exist, such as: Myth: Midwives are not certified.

Fact: Certifited Nurse-Midwives are certified and licensed by the state of Illinois.

Myth: Insurance doesn’t pay for midwifery services.

Fact: Major insurance companies and Medicaid cover midwifery services Myth: CNMs lack the education and training necessary to provide safe care for women and their babies. fact: Dabrowski and Rose, with their advanced degrees and lengthy experience, disprove that myth. The fact is that “national studies have shown that outcomes for nursemidwifery care in the U.S. have exceeded the national average,” says the American College of Nurse-Midwives.

Another mistaken belief is that midwives deliver babies only in the home.

“I think there’s a misperception that midwives only attend home births,” Dabrowski says. “But the majority are in a hospital setting — I’d say 98 percent are in a hospital. There are very few states where lay midwives are accepted, and Illinois certainly isn’t one of them.

“I think nationally, overall, people understand that we practice with advanced degrees.”

Rose thinks the public understands the

What other benefits does a midwife provide to patients?

“Midwives treat the whole person — mind, body and spirit,” Dabrowski says.

Rose adds that midwives are considered primary care providers, too.

“We do a lot of preventive care, menopause management, pap smears, bone density screening and more,” she says. “[Obstetrics] and labor and delivery nursing is just a part of the practice.”

The women provide health care across the spectrum for grandmothers, mothers and daughters.

“Being in a small town, it’s great to get to know them, and it’s a pleasure to care for the whole family,” Dabrowski says.

Is the popularity of midwives rising?

“About 25 years ago, I think only about 2 percent of nurses were also midwives,” Rose says. “Now, it’s significantly higher. Plus, insurance companies like nurse-midwives in the equation providing coverage to both midwives and obstetricians.”

Dabrowski agrees.

“I think we have seen a tremendous transition in accepting nurse-midwives in the attendance of not only birth, but women’s healthcare in general,” she says. In Illinois, we work well with physicians and play an important collaborative role in the health care team.” mc

May 2013 • McHenry County Magazine

45

3Dina Frigo of Huntley is a single mother of three.

Her middle son, Anthony, was diagnosed with autism at age 2. She is pictured with her children (from left) Anthony, Analise and Sam.

family / success lives next door

Salute To Single Moms I By LEE NELSON

At

2 and a half years old, Anthony was diagnosed with autism.

“He had pretty much lost all his eye contact and social skills,” says his mother, Dina Frigo of Huntley, who raises Anthony by herself along with her two other children, Sam, 13, and Analise, 11.

“He would flap his arms when he was excited.

I started early intervention immediately.”

Anthony received occupational, speech and development therapies.

“It was a blessing that I caught it early on,” Frigo says. “He’s done amazing, and he’s 11 now. If you incorporate a schedule every day, a visual schedule, he can see what’s coming up. I write it up on a big dry erase board.”

She’s also put him on a biomedical, gluten-free diet and placed him in a private school in Crystal Lake called Alexander Leigh Center for Autism.

“I’ve come through so much.

Any time something would pull me back, I would move one step ahead,” Frigo says. “My first blessing is that I have God in my life with wonderful church

•

Photos by HEATHER NELSON I

support. I would have never made it through all this without them.”

She attends Willow Creek Community Church in South Barrington.

“It’s large, but they have a wonderful special needs program called Eagles Nest and Eagles Nest Kids,” she says, noting that these small groups provide spiritual support for parents of children with special needs and support for the children.

Not Going It Alone Trying to juggle it all — children’s schedules, a full-time job, the bills, school work and a social life — definitely has been

the toughest part of being a single mother for Frigo.

But she is not alone in her struggles or triumphs as a single mother.

According to the National Kids Count Program, 35 percent of American children are living with a single parent. Most of those children live with their mothers.

Frigo has tried to expose her children to many organizations and groups that can give them a better sense of community and opportunities. One of them is Big Brothers Big Sisters of McHenry County.

“Our model is to support our families,” says BBBS executive director Robyn Ostrem. “We have a lot of really great parents in our program who are doing the best they can. We have moms who are working two or three jobs to support their families.”

Those moms turn to BBBS to find others in the community to help and support their children.

“Single parents shouldn’t get down on themselves when they 5 Frigo and others have enroll their kids with had a vision of creating a center for children with special needs.

3 (At left) Frigo makes it a point to balance time with all three of her children.

5 (Above) Anthony and Analise enjoy time together outside.

us. We want them all to achieve,” Ostrem says.

“We really try and help these parents help themselves.”

The parents don’t have to worry about the adults that are spending time with their children. Big Brothers Big Sisters does multilayer screening, including FBI and state police fingerprinting, sex offender checks, motor vehicle and circuit clerk checks, and a look into the Department of Children and Family Services files.

“There’s a lot of red tape, but we are lucky to have such helpful law enforcement agencies that partner with us,” Ostrem says.

Many times, she has seen little girls who come into the program who want a grandmother figure to teach them knitting or needlepointing. Some also want a younger woman figure to learn about fashion, makeup and other hip things. The program tries to deliver on a volunteer who can fulfill a child’s needs.

“These kids get to do safe things in a safe atmosphere that is meaningful,” Ostrem says. “Every month, our case manager will talk with the parents, volunteer and the child to see what they have been up to.”

Frigo appreciates all the community and volunteer help she has received to help her raise her children. She also is trying to help other parents with a new program she created through the Northern Illinois Special Recreation Association in Crystal Lake.

It started just a few months ago as a threein-one program for all members of a family with special needs children. The parent or caregiver can come to exercise. The siblings get their own socialization time with each other.

And the special needs children are cared for by NISRA staff. It all takes place at one location on one night.

Frigo is hoping to make the program a permanent fixture at NISRA, and ideally, she’d love to turn it into a full-time job. Currently, she works part-time at MJ Reporting, a court reporting business in Algonquin. But when her kids are sick, she must stay home and forfeit a day’s salary.

“Financially, it’s very devastating,” Frigo

says. “I got divorced four years ago and had to sell my home. But I downsized into a townhome in the same subdivision in the same town. So, that has worked out well.”

Tips for single moms Frigo’s best advice to other single mothers is to: • Stay positive • Get involved in a very good, Bible-based church • Join support groups • Take care of yourself • Reach out to others when you are feeling down and surround yourself with positive people 3 Dina Frigo spends some close time with her son Anthony.

Single Parent Resources Of McHenry County

ADULT & CHILD THERAPY SERVICES 708 Washington St. Woodstock, IL 60098 815-338-1707 www.adultchildtherapy.org

BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS OF MCHENRY COUNTY 4318-B W. Crystal Lake Road McHenry, IL 60050 815-385-3855 www.bbbsmchenry.org

BLESSING BARN

8310 Railroad St. Crystal Lake, IL 60012 815-382-0206 www.blessingbarn.org

CATHOLIC CHARITIES MCHENRY 5141 W. Bull Valley Road McHenry, IL 60050 815-344-6956 www.ccrfd.org

CORPORATION FOR AFFORDABLE HOMES OF MCHENRY COUNTY 209 Dean St. Woodstock, IL 60098 815-687-6723 www.cahmco.org

50 McHenry County Magazine • May 2013

McHenryCountyMagazine.com

DEPARTMENT OF CHILDREN & FAMILY SERVICES (DCFS) 113 Newell St. Woodstock, IL 60098 815-338-1068

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC AID 2215 Lake Shore Drive Woodstock, IL 60098 815-338-0234

HOME OF THE SPARROW 5342 W. Elm McHenry, IL 60050 815-271-5444 www.H-O-S.org

NORTHERN ILLINOIS SPECIAL RECREATION ASSOCIATION (NISRA) 285 Memorial Drive Crystal Lake, IL 60014 815-459-0737 www.nisra.org mc

These kids get to do safe things in a safe atmosphere that is meaningful.

Robyn Ostrem, Big Brothers Big Sisters of McHenry County executive director 6 Frigo draws her strength from her faith and the support she’s found at her church, Willow Creek Community Church in South Barrington.

McHenryCountyMagazine.com

May 2013 • McHenry County Magazine

51

family

When The Empty Nest Fills Up Again What to do if your college grad moves home

I By Gatehouse News Service

I

College graduates are moving home at a much faster rate than ever before, and it’s no wonder, with the rising costs of living and tough job market.

So, what happens when your new grad decides he or she wants to move back in with you?

Here’s a quick guide.

Set boundaries

Establish goals

The first thing you need to do is decide and agree on boundaries.

Even though your kid is coming back into your home as an adult, you may want to set a curfew, assign chores and ask for rent.

Whatever the situation, it’s important to talk about these things up front so everyone fully understands what is and isn’t acceptable in the household.

You may even want to put these things in writing for clarification down the road.

I am a big proponent of setting SMART goals — they must be Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant and Time-sensitive.

Moving home is supposed to be a temporary solution so your college graduate can get on his or her feet without amassing any more debt. It’s important to set clear goals and work toward them.

Decide on a game plan, such as three to five job applications a week or six months of free rent, and make sure you stick to them.

52 McHenry County Magazine • May 2013

Money No matter how awkward, you must talk about money. Decide on a monthly rent, if any. Are they going to chip in for groceries or utilities? What about a savings plan?

A friend of mine had an agreement with her parents that all of her wages would go toward paying off student loans while she lived at home rent-free.

Job search Some college grads are underemployed with the same retail job they had in college, but some move home while standing in the unemployment line.

Both of these scenarios are fine, but the ultimate goal is for your kid to get a real, grownup job in their chosen field. A good job search is really a full-time job, so make sure the necessary time and energy is put into it.

There are a ton of resources for job seekers.

McHenryCountyMagazine.com

Be supportive There is a fine line between being a supportive parent and letting your kid get away with postponing adulthood.

This is probably a tough time for both of you, but it should be harder on them than it is on you. Especially in the beginning, let your college grad know that you support them and are there to help them transition into being a self-sustaining adult.

End date Know that someday — hopefully sooner rather than later — your kid will be moving out of your home for good, so now is the best time to get in quality time together before your lives start getting busier.

You don’t have to decide on an end date in the beginning, but it’s a good idea to set a time frame — three months, six months, one year. mc — BillCutterz.com

McHenryCountyMagazine.com

May 2013 • McHenry County Magazine

53

family

the

Real Mothers OF McHENRY COUNTY

S

ince I have had children, I have really been trying to make a conscious effort to have the utmost respect for every mom I encounter.

I recently came across a mom in the bathroom at my church trying to change her 2-year-old daughter’s diaper on the changing table.

She was struggling a great deal because her daughter was terrified that she was going to fall off the changing table located about 4 feet off the ground. I got my son situated at the sink to wash his hands and walked over to offer my assistance. I took the little girl’s hat, which had a panda bear on it, and turned it into a puppet to entertain her. Both she and her mom kind of looked at me like I was nuts, but it managed to calm the little girl down long enough for her mother to wipe her daughter and get a fresh diaper on her.

I told the woman I remembered struggling with both my kids at that age when they became more aware and their fear of heights and falling kicked in. She thanked me, and I told her that us moms gotta stick together.

It seemed like a no-brainer to me, especially since I was at church where, the last time I checked, one major lesson is that we should be there for others and be kind to one another.

Unfortunately, I think we as women have fallen into the unnecessary role of playing “Super Mom” and are afraid to admit when we need help.

Of course, that also means we fall prey to a junior high mentality where our own lack of self-esteem means we are constantly comparing ourselves to other moms and ultimately passing judgment.

I have often found myself comparing myself to other moms and beating myself

up for losing my cool, feeling overwhelmed or, quite honestly, not being able to juggle it all. I am hard on myself because I don’t live my own well-organized “Pinterest board” complete with healthy meals, a welldecorated home and themed birthday parties that include my own handmade party favors and home-baked confections to match. I don’t scrapbook or hodgepodge or crochet or even put up decorations for any holiday except Christmas — and maybe some ghosts on the windows for Halloween. Most of the time I’m lucky to have everyone showered, dressed and fed without forgetting to take someone to dance or checking the backpack for homework or library books.

Heck, I realized three-quarters of the way into the school year that the reason we were late to the bus stop every morning was because I read the form incorrectly at the beginning of the year and we had been going to the wrong bus stop.

We have to remember that millions of women give birth and struggle with the same

“

I think we as women have fallen into the unnecessary role of playing “Super

Mom” and are afraid to

admit when we need help.

exact things. None of us is perfect. My mom taught me a very important lesson in my life that I return to when I am feeling sorry for myself or judging others: no matter what, there is always someone better off — and worse off — than you.

So, if a mom is telling you her kid(s) are perfect, she is lying. If you are “that mom” saying your kid(s) are perfect, knock if off.

Be real, be honest and be supportive of your mommy counterparts.

The bottom line is, our job as mothers is tough. We all have days where we want to sell our kids to the gypsies. We are constantly coordinating things while taking our children’s and husband’s interest into account.

Some of us work outside the home — some of us don’t — but in almost every case, we are all just trying to keep it together and get through each day. Rarely do we get to take the time to simply do something for ourselves unless we devise a detailed flowchart first.

This is what makes mothers so special.

We live in a society littered with “reality” shows such as “Real Housewives of … [whatever city],” where all these women tear each other down. The true “reality” is that we should be supporting each other. mc

Write This Down with Michelle Stien

• Michelle Stien is a stay-at-home mom of two children, ages 3 and 5. Her mother always told her to “write this down,” so she is sharing her experiences with McHenry County moms to help them deal with the craziness of being “Mom.”

A Special Section Of McHenry County Magazine

WOMEN 2013

BUSINESS

UNIFORM

WEDDING

DENTAL

LOCAL

BUSINESS

BUSINESS

BUSINESS

Mentor. Former nurse. Mother of two.

Penny Keck, who started selling scrubs out of her basement before moving to a downtown Crystal Lake store, continues to outfit the area’s medical, public safety, security and culinary workers.

Organizer. Socialite. Wedding planner.

Tami Hacker loves helping others choose how they’re going to celebrate one of the happiest moments of their life — their marriage.

Doctor. Motivator. Future pilot. Even with three young girls and a husband at home, Dr. Lindy Rucks manages to balance her personal life with her professional life as owner of her own dental practice.

Lawyer. Financial advisor. Fitness guru.

Take a look at the women who make McHenry County businesses click, from savvy executives to dynamic managers all working toward the same common goal — taking care of their customers.

BUSINESS

on the cover / women in business

6 Besides medical outfits, Today’s Uniforms carries apparel for public safety, security and culinary workers.

Not Necessarily Uniform What began 10 years ago as a means to pay private school tuition has become a thriving business for former nurse Penny Keck.

Keck, 42, the owner of Today’s Uniforms, which has locations in Crystal Lake and Elgin, outfits medical, public safety, security and culinary workers in McHenry and Kane counties and surrounding areas. The shop also carries school uniforms, medical and public safety accessories, and serves corporate clients with onsite custom embroidery and heat transfers.

In addition, her customers include those who love Today’s Uniforms’ comfortable, non-slip footwear.

“I have people who work in retail,

cashiers from Jewel-Osco, restaurant servers, hair stylists — anyone who works on their feet all day,” Keck says.

Though it might seem a big leap from nursing to retail, Keck says she’s been preparing for this career all her life, starting with her first job at the age of 14.

“I was a paige at the library, and it taught me to be organized,” she says.

“Next, I worked at McDonald’s, which taught me about good customer service and how to work in an environment that changed quickly. Of course, that was great preparation to be an ER nurse.”

Entrepreneurial Bloodlines An Algonquin native, Keck grew up fascinated by her parents’ careers in firefighting and nursing. As a child, she

sometimes visited her fire captain father at work, and she enjoyed hearing her mom and dad’s dinner hour shop talk.

“I was always the one asking for more details,” she says.

At Jacobs High School, she played volleyball and participated in student council. Then, after graduation, she enrolled at Northern Illinois University in the liberal arts program, but she soon switched to nursing.

“I liked that [nursing] wasn’t a nineto-five office job, because I’m definitely not a cubicle girl,” Keck says, adding that after years of hearing her parents’ stories, she knew what to expect. “It was a natural fit.”

During college, she also worked in retail — another experience that would prove valuable.

Keck began her nursing career at

I By Elizabeth Harmon • Photos by MELISSA EMORY

I

5 Members of fire and police departments nationwide who have purchased items from Today’s Uniform often send a patch to Keck to display in her store.

Centegra Health System working as a chemotherapy nurse, then in the emergency room, then as a supervisor. She also married and had two daughters.

“When the girls hit preschool, I discovered the Montessori system and knew this was what I wanted for them,” she says.

Rather than take a part-time job to cover tuition, Keck decided to start a business.

She says she comes from an entrepreneurial family, with a greatgrandfather who ran a sweet shop and an aunt who owned a restaurant.

“Even though my parents had traditional

5 Penny Keck, 42, an Algonquin native and Jacobs High School graduate, opened Today’s Uniforms in part to afford private school tuition for her two daughters. many other nurses, dealt with frequently.

“Because I’m 5-foot-nothing, I had a hard time finding scrubs that fit,” Keck says.

“Catalog shopping was frustrating, and I believe in shopping local, but there wasn’t

nursing background with a retail business.

She also worked with the McHenry County College Small Business Development Center to create a business plan.

Though counselors at the center felt the name “Today’s Uniforms” was too vague, Keck stuck with it.

“They preferred that I focused on scrubs, but I saw the possibility of one day wanting to branch out, and I like to keep my options open,” she says. “I’m glad I did, because police and firefighters wouldn’t want to shop at ‘Scrubs are Us.’”

Pulling It All Together

5 The comfortable, non-slip footwear Keck offers are favorites of retail employees, cashiers, restaurant servers, hairstylists and other workers who stand on their feet all day.

jobs, they also owned rental properties, so it was part of my background, just laying dormant,” she says.

She considered various ideas before settling on one that addressed a problem she, and

any place nearby. I asked people at work, and they had the same frustrations I did.”

Her mother put in her in touch with a uniform shop owner in Florida, and Keck investigated her idea, which merged her

A local bank was impressed with Keck’s business plan and her conservative approach to operating out of her basement and selling through local uniform fairs.

For the first month or two, Keck distributed promotional fliers at hospitals and medical offices and worked from her basement and her car — all while still holding down a nursing job. Though juggling family responsibilities and two jobs wasn’t easy, her nursing career boosted her customer base.

“People liked that I wore the uniforms I sold,” Keck says. “I’d get something from a vendor, try it and know right away if it worked on the job.

I also had a rapport with my

4 Brooke Oltz (left) has worked at Today’s Uniforms for two years and says she considers Keck an inspiration.

customers. I could talk shop with them.

A lot of them still knew my mom and dad, so there was a personal connection.”

Business boomed and, within six months, Keck moved Today’s Uniforms into a former women’s golf apparel store in downtown Crystal Lake.

“It was already set up for retail, so I didn’t have to spend thousands of dollars to build it out,” she says. “I saw it as a sign that I was supposed to do this.”

She added public safety uniforms to her sales list in 2004, and McHenry Township Fire Protection District Chief Tony 6 The shop also carries fashionable medical accessories.

60 McHenry County Magazine • May 2013

Heumann says Keck’s customer service goes beyond filling the department’s monthly order.

“She responds quickly to our needs,” Heumann says. “Sometimes she delivers our order, but [she] doesn’t just drop it off.

She’ll ask if there’s anything else she can do. She has a great memory and follows through. You mention something once and she remembers. She’s easy to work with, and if there’s a problem, she makes sure it’s taken care of.”

Expanding The Business

A move four years ago to another downtown Crystal Lake location — a storefront at 67 E. Woodstock, which is twice the size of her original store — enabled Keck to add embroidery equipment and a seamstress.

Today, her biggest challenge as a business owner is to find motivated employees, and she says she feels fortunate to have two excellent store managers: Janelle Bordeau in Elgin and Brooke Oltz in Crystal Lake.

Oltz, a Crystal Lake Central High School graduate and McHenry County College student, has worked at Today’s Uniforms for two years and says she considers Keck a career inspiration.

“I’d taken a semester off because I didn’t know what I wanted to do,” Oltz says.

“Now, I know. I’d like to own something like this.”

From Keck, Oltz has learned the day-today aspects of running a retail business.

“Penny is a great boss,” Oltz says. “She’ll tell me, ‘If you think it will sell, order it.’ I love it that she trusts me, and I love what I do.”

5 Before opening her store, Keck had a hard time finding scrubs that fit her smaller frame.

Keck also loves what she does, and she especially enjoys the flexibility that owning a business offers.

“I can work around my kids’ schedule,” she says.

“As a nurse, I did well, and this [business] was just to cover their school.

Now, it’s snowballed into much more.” mc May 2013 • McHenry County Magazine

61

women in business

3 Tami Hacker runs her wedding planning business, Creatively Yours, out of her home in McHenry.

Dream Weaver I By COLLEEN LEONARD • Photos by MELISSA EMORY I 62 McHenry County Magazine • May 2013

McHenryCountyMagazine.com

6 Hacker, 32, started Creatively Yours in 2006.

The online program taught her business strategies, such as how to develop client relationships, negotiate contracts with vendors, create time lines and work within a budget. The training also included assisting a wedding coordinator to gain experience.

Anyone interested in starting a business should interview and shadow a professional in their chosen field before making an investment, Hacker says.

The 32-year-old believes that she is successful because she is organized and detail-oriented. She has always loved planning social events, including her own wedding.

“I love what I do,” she says. “To me, it’s not a job.

It’s almost like planning my wedding over and over again, based on my clients’ styles.”

How she’s made it work

A

fter returning from her honeymoon, Tami Hacker was told by her insurance employer that she had been laid off.

Instead of accepting lemons, Hacker looked for a sweet opportunity to use her strengths. She discovered online training to learn how to coordinate weddings and other events.

In 2006, after about nine months of training, she received a certificate in event planning and established Creatively Yours, a wedding planning business in McHenry.

Hacker has few expenses since she works from home. Advertising is the main expense.

For instance, she advertises on The Knot, a popular website that helps couples plan their wedding.

Creatively Yours also appears on Facebook.

Hacker uses the site to provide daily tips on wedding planning, from invitation ideas to etiquette.

To appeal to a wide variety of customers, Hacker offers several service options to meet a couple’s needs and budget.

About 90 percent of her clients choose her wedding day coordination service, which averages $600. This service is for a couple who has done the planning but wants a wedding coordinator to take over during the rehearsal, ceremony and reception.

The wedding day generally means a 12hour workday for Hacker.

“I am the first one to show up in the morning at the hotel, and I am the last one to leave the reception site,” she says.

Hacker’s e-service package allows clients to consult with her via email, text message, phone or fax. The standard fee of $800 covers the e-service plus coordination during the rehearsal, ceremony and reception.

Creatively Yours also

provides full-service planning at an average cost of $2,500. On her website, Hacker describes full service as a good choice for couples who don’t know where to start or who want the convenience of being told when and where to show up.

“I feel that I have a connection with my brides. I’m not their maid of honor, but I try to be their best friend,” she says. “I am their right-hand person to go to for any kind of questions. I am there for any last-minute stuff.”

Tips for planning a wedding As part of the planning process, Hacker interviews couples to determine how to create a wedding that fits their personalities.

The interview includes discovering their interests and determining colors and décor styles that appeal to them.

3 (At left) Hacker believes she is successful because she is organized and detail-oriented.

5 (Above and at right) Creatively Yours offers wedding day coordination, e-wedding planning and full event design.

She suggests allowing nine to 12 months to plan a wedding.

On average, couples spend $25,631 for a wedding, according to The Wedding Report Inc. But if that figure is unaffordable, Hacker says, a low-budget wedding can be done for $7,000 to $10,000.

A major undertaking for couples is negotiating with caterers, florists, music groups, photographers, rental businesses and other vendors. Because vendors are an integral part of planning, Hacker suggests meeting with at least three in each category.

While couples often choose disc jockeys for entertainment, she sees a growing trend to hire bands.

“I’ve even had a few up in Lake Geneva where they’ve had an orchestra,” Hacker says.

“The Great Gatsby” is a popular theme this year, she says, because couples are drawn to the glitz and glamour of that time period.

The Green Wedding Shoes blog and similar websites are highlighting lace wedding gowns this spring and are pairing them with sparkly shoes, purses and jewelry.

Hacker began her business organizing a few weddings a year. Now, she coordinates two each month during the wedding season.

Besides McHenry County, she is accustomed to setting up weddings in Chicago, the Geneva and St. Charles area and Lake Geneva, Wis. Seeing a couple smiling on their wedding day is one way that she measures success. mc

5 To learn more about Creatively Yours, visit www.creativelyyoursevents.com..

64 McHenry County Magazine • May 2013

McHenryCountyMagazine.com

women in business

Drill Sergeant I By JACKY RUNICE

D

on’t tell Sheryl Sandberg, chief operating officer of Facebook and author of the controversial book on women and work called “Lean In,” about Dr. Lindy Rucks.

The McHenry County dentist and owner of Lakewood Dental doesn’t mind the stereotype of women being the kinder, gentler sex.

5 (Above) Lakewood Dental is comprised of (from left) dental assistant Chrissy Lockart of Lakewood, dental assistant Brenna Grabowski of Huntley, dental hygienist Sue Barchard of Crystal Lake, Dr. Lindy Rucks, Patti Mathews of Wonder Lake and Barb Luebbers of Hebron.

4 (At right) Dr. Lindy Rucks examines teeth X-rays at her practice.

•

Photos by MICHELE IDSTEIN

“As a dentist, being female has its advantages because patients see a woman as more gentle, and that just helps my practice,” Rucks says.

Rucks, who worked at the Lakewood practice since 2006, purchased it in 2011.

Why did she “lean in” and become a business owner?

“As an employee of a dental office, you don’t have total control of your own staff, and I wanted to reward them for their hard

I

work,” the mother of three young girls says.

“Also, as an owner, I can set my own fees or, if I see a family in need, I can donate my services. But the biggest reason is I’m in control of my own schedule and work around my children and family.”

Ready Or Not Rucks bought the practice about a year and a half after the birth of her third child, at a time when both her and her husband’s careers — husband Bruce is an accountant — were stable.

Ready or not, Rucks confirms that purchasing a practice was daunting.

“I wrote out checklists to complete little tasks in my personal life and getting financing in order, so when it became time to buy, I was ready,” she says.

Owning a practice is not as straightforward as rinse, swish, spit every day.

“It’s easy as an employee, but when you have to manage your own staff, hire, figure out compensation and rewards — those are difficult decisions,” Rucks says. “The most challenging thing is to keep everyone motivated and excited about what we’re doing, so I’m also head cheerleader and motivational coach.”

She notes that the days of a dentist being a hands-off kind of boss is the old model, and today’s dentists lean toward the team approach so that staff members are more involved in the success of the business.

Then, there’s the eternal work/ family balancing act.

“Some days, the schedule is so packed, like during spring break, that I don’t know how we’re going to do it,” Rucks says. “I try to keep regular hours, but I can’t turn someone away who is pain. Our nanny is a lifesaver.”

Gentle on your bicuspids but a strong motivator in the office, Rucks took a page from a mentor to get to that sweet place of work/life balance.

“I model my business approach to Janet Janis, a dentist in Cary, who is one of my mentors,” Rucks says. “She has a successful business, the dedication and respect of her employees and patients, and managed to raise a great family.”

6 Chrissy Lockhart and Rucks perform a dental procedure at Lakewood Dental.

No Regrets Rucks wasn’t born with mouthwash in her veins — there aren’t any other dentists in the family.

“I was always very interested in science, especially biology,” she says, “and when I knew I wanted a family, dentistry allowed me to combine career and family.”

She practices general dentistry and especially enjoys working with families.

A patient of Rucks for five years, Kathleen Poppen has two adult children who still see the dentist, one driving in from Schaumburg.

Poppen had to leave her dentist of 30 years when the family moved to the area, and a co-worker suggested she give Rucks a try.

“I knew Dr. Rucks had to be good because my friend who recommended her practically needed sedation to see a dentist,” Poppen laughs. “Dr. Rucks puts you at ease, and it seems like you’ve known her for a long time.

“And she has a sense of humor,” the Huntley resident adds.

Amanda Shoop, a patient for a year,

found Rucks by word of mouth, too.

“She’s delicate on the teeth, and I love that she’s always on time,” the Huntley mother of two says. “She gets you in and out.”

Shoop’s husband, Chad, has begun to see Rucks, and so will their kids, ages 4 and 18 months.

The business owner and medical pro still

manages to carve out time for pure fun, too, enjoying water skiing with her husband.

“And I’m learning to fly at the Lake in the Hills airport,” Rucks. “I hope to have my pilot’s license by spring.

“Why not?” she asks. “The clock keeps ticking, and I don’t want to look back and

5 Dr. Rucks also is working toward her pilot’s license.

McHenryCountyMagazine.com

May 2013 • McHenry County Magazine

67

See page 112

Sound advice may save you hundreds!

68 McHenry County Magazine • May 2013

McHenryCountyMagazine.com

McHenry County Women: Who’s Who Executive Director: Woodstock Chamber Shari Gray, Executive Director of the Woodstock Chamber of Commerce and Industry, loves the group’s community focus.

“Since we’re a smaller chamber, we have a one on one connection to our members. Everyone knows and supports one another. It’s a very intimate feel, but at the same time, we’re quite diverse,” said Gray, who became executive director two years ago.

The Chamber’s 225 members represent an array of industries, including technology, communications, graphic design, insurance and financial services, health care and not-for-profits. They range from home-based businesses to large manufacturing firms. Many are new, but there are also established companies that have lasted through multiple generations or owners.

A new promotional campaign launched last fall highlights the chamber’s diversity. The campaign features posters of chamber members in their businesses, along with the tagline, “I Am the Woodstock Chamber.” Each includes a quote from the business owner about how they’ve benefitted from chamber membership.

Gray’s goal is to facilitate programming and events that serve the needs all of members. Each month, the chamber offers social and networking opportunities, and throughout the year, sponsors programs and events which promote local businesses, the community, and also help others.

“Our members are very loyal to one another. We strongly believe in supporting local businesses,” she said.

Woodstock Chamber of Commerce • 136 Cass St. Woodstock, IL • 815-338-2436 • www.woodstockilchamber.com

Kay Rial Bates, President Why Women are Great Leaders • We are multi-taskers. We know how to potty train while taking a conference call.

• We use teams to problem solve allowing for quality outcomes derived from multiple points of view.

• We nurture. We mentor others successfully building confidence and potential. We then take joy when our students succeed.

• We are balanced as individuals coming from the juggling of work and home. We thus have an innate ability to keep our focus even in difficult situations.

• We are great compromisers. We can find the win in a situation for all solving conflict agreeably.

• We have courage. We have learned to prove our value in a workplace that is not always affirming to women.

• We are creative leading us to take risks when we see a route that will lead us toward organizational growth.

• We communicate well using our gifts in persuasion to get goals accomplished.

• We listen. Need I say more on this!

• We are flexible. We can change our course easily upon learning of a better path to take.

• We are good at getting things done. We know how to develop a plan, put the proper people in place and follow up making certain of a good outcome.

Recognize yourself in most of these traits? Of course you do. We are all Women of Distinction.

Come to the Chamber’s Professional Woman’s Group, WINGs, and meet fellow women of distinction on May 22nd.

McHenry Area Chamber of Commerce www.mchenrychamber.com

Business Profile

Business Profile

McHenry County Women: Who’s Who

Experience and Creativity Mix for Great Kitchens Certified kitchen and bath designer Julie Loehner often hears customers say, “I doubt there’s much you can do.”

“That’s exactly why someone should work with a certified kitchen designer. Every space is unique, and I take each project as a challenge,” said Loehner, owner of Kitchens by Julie.

Kitchens by Julie specializes in turn-key service, with Loehner handling the design, and her husband Mark providing expert carpentry and installation. “Our forte is complete remodeling, with design and construction working closely on every project,” she said.

Their downtown Cary showroom offers exciting ideas to create the kitchen or bath of your dreams, plus decorative accessories, accent furniture and gifts.

Creativity, turn-key service and 28 years of experience sets Kitchens by Julie apart. “We put our heart and soul into every project. If you’re going to make a change, the end result should be something you love,” she said.

Kitchens by Julie, Inc. • 27-A Jandus Road Cary, IL • (847) 516-2226 • www.kitchensbyjulie.com

Everyday Glamour Janice Stretch believes every woman deserves a little glamour.

“When a woman feels good about how she looks, it boosts her selfconfidence,” said Stretch, owner of JaniceStyle, Inc. in McHenry, which specializes in handmade hair ornaments and bridal veils.

Known as “hair fascinators” Stretch’s decorative hair clips and headbands combine Victorian elegance and the glamour of Hollywood’s Golden Age. Stretch uses silk flowers, vintage jewelry, French netting and feathers to create timeless one-of-a-kind pieces that make any outfit a little more special.

“They’re perfect with prom dresses, for a wedding reception, or even a special date night,” she said.

The fascinators can also be attached to a purse, hat, or worn on a lapel. Her website, www.janicestyle.com, offers a design gallery and Stretch can often integrate elements that are special to her customers.

“There’s a lot of attention to detail,” Stretch said. Each piece is handmade by Stretch.

Stretch launched JaniceStyle in 2010, after the bandeau style bridal veil she made for her own wedding brought compliments and orders.

“The creativity which goes into each piece is so rewarding. When a customer comments, ‘that’s exactly what I wanted,’ it’s the finest compliment I can receive,” she said.

Janice Stretch, JaniceStyle, Inc. (815) 355-7890 • www.janicestyle.com

McHenry County Women: Who’s Who Academic Tutoring Plus, Inc. Academic Tutoring Plus, Inc. provides students with inspiring programs to enhance their basic academic skills.

Marty Spencer’s one-on-one instruction is tailored for each specific student and is presented by certified teachers who are trained in these programs. Spencer and a former colleague specialized in teaching children with learning differences and developed a program for use in their school district. Her programs are scientifically researched based and have been used successfully with students for many years.

Marty’s center offers tutoring in Reading, Mathematics, Writing Skills, Study Skills, Critical Thinking, Test- Taking Strategies, and ACT Preparation. “We educate students of all ages and even work with adults who want to improve their academic skills,” Marty explained.

Marty enjoys providing a warm, positive environment in which all students can learn and feel good about themselves.

“Even kids who are hesitant at first seem to change their minds after one or two visits,” she said.

111 South Virginia Street (route 14) • Crystal Lake, IL 60050 (815) 356-0833 • www.crystallaketutor.com

Executive Director: Hooved Animal Humane Society Tracy A. McGonigle, Esq. has been the Executive Director of The Hooved Animal Humane Society (HAHS) for the past two years. A life-long horse owner and rider, McGonigle has been an attorney for twenty years, specializing in animal law for eleven years. She lectures on animal law at top Illinois universities and institutions, has served as a judge at the University of Chicago Law School for the semi-finals of the National Animal Law Moot Court Competition, and is a licensed Approved Humane/Equine investigator.

Additionally, McGonigle has run her own law practice for the past four and a half years, focusing on animal law, commercial litigation, and real estate. She is a past Chairperson and Legislative Liaison of the Animal Law Committee of the Chicago Bar Association, as well as a member and lecturer for the Animal Law Committee of the Illinois State Bar Association.

“The past two years at HAHS have been unbelievably rewarding. We have tripled our herd of rescue horses and have doubled our acreage with the purchase of 28 acres adjacent to our current farm. Our rescue farm now totals 54 acres. This will help us answer the call of the many animals that need our care because of the economy and last year’s drought and resulting hay shortage. I am grateful to have this wonderful opportunity to be with such a great organization and be part of the solution, helping animals in such a large scale fashion.” says McGonigle.

National in scope, HAHS, now in its 42nd year, is a 501(c)(3) organization, promoting humane treatment of hooved animals through education, legislation, investigation and intervention. Headquartered in Woodstock, Illinois, the organization has rescued and rehabilitated thousands of horses and other hooved animals throughout its 42 years. HAHS is hosting its third annual Dinner/Auction fundraiser, “Cowboys & Angels, a Party under the Stars” on June 8, 2013, at its newly purchased property, right next to its current farm, at 10804 McConnell Rd., Woodstock, Illinois.

Hooved Animal Humane Society • 10804 McConnell Road Woodstock, IL • 815-337-5563 • www.hahs.org

Business Profile

Business Profile

McHenry County Women: Who’s Who

Helping customers find the perfect gift makes Mary Batson’s day.

MARY BATSON, owner of Out of the Box in downtown Crystal Lake, opened her business in Oct. 2008. “We focus on being a gift store. We carry unique items that you won’t find in a big box store at affordable prices and we have something for every age,” she said.

Out of the Box carries inspirational plaques, wall art, and more.

“We have great gifts for graduation, Mother’s Day or just the right thing for someone who’s going through a rough time. In addition we have jewelry handcrafted by local and regional artists as well as great costume jewelry. If you’re looking for a new purse or scarf, we’ve got that too.”

Batson frequently hears customers refer to Out of the Box as their “go to store for gifts”. The store offers complimentary gift-wrapping and personal service in a comfortable shopping atmosphere that customers appreciate.

Batson loves being part of the thriving downtown Crystal Lake business community and is the recipient of the Downtown Crystal Lake Association’s 2011 Gem Award for Best Business Neighbor and the 2012 Main Street Spirit Award. “I’m very committed to the success of downtown, and encouraging people to shop local to sustain this wonderful community.”

71 N Williams St • Crystal Lake, IL 60014 815-444-7446 • www.outoftheboxstore.com

First Vice President – Investments Cynthia Brown Komarek, CRPC® has been dedicated to helping her clients manage their investments for since 1983. Cynthia uses an approach to investment management that is customized to each client’s unique goals using Wells Fargo Advisor’s Envision® Plan. She works closely with clients to create strategies to help preserve and maximize wealth. She is committed to delivering the finest wealth management service available in today’s every changing market conditions.

Before moving her financial practice to Wells Fargo Advisors in 2008, Cynthia served as Vice President at Merrill Lynch for 17 years in both the Barrington, IL and the Crystal Lake, IL offices. Cynthia began her career as a Financial Advisor at Oberweis Securities and then worked at E.F. Hutton prior to joining Merrill Lynch. She also taught women’s investment classes for a local junior college near the start of her career.

Born and raised in Elgin, Ill., Cynthia graduated with a bachelor’s degree from Augustana College in Rock Island, IL, and then attended graduate school at Kansas University. Cynthia also holds the Series 7, 63 and 65 securities registrations and the applicable insurance licenses, in addition to the designation of Chartered Retirement Planning CounselorsSM. Cynthia is a member of the National Association of Professional Women (NAPW) and has frequently been a guest speaker for Fortune 100 Companies’ Women in Management Symposium regarding women’s financial concerns.

Take the time to review your financial goals with a complimentary meeting.

Cynthia Brown Komarek • 2424 Lake Shore Dr, Woodstock, IL 815-334-2216 • cynthia.komarek@wellsfargoadvisors.com Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC, Member SIPC is a registered broker-dealer and a separate non-bank affiliate of Wells Fargo & Company. © 2012 Wells Fargo Advisors, LLC. All Rights reserved.

Investment and Insurance Products NOT FDIC Insured NO Bank Guarantee MAY Lose Value

McHenry County Women: Who’s Who Jenny Wagner, Assistant Vice President Commercial Banker, Crystal Lake Bank and Trust Jenny Wagner, Assistant Vice President - Commercial Banker with Crystal Lake Bank and Trust, understands that applying for a business loan can be a tense process. That’s why she’s committed to guiding clients through each step. “I recently helped Dolphin Swim Club of Crystal Lake open a fifth location in Schaumburg.

For me, the highlight is the client, community and bank benefiting from a new business expanding.”

A Crystal Lake native, Wagner graduated from Crystal Lake South High School, then the University of Iowa with a bachelor’s degree in Finance. Wagner and her husband, have two children, ages 5 and 9. She sees her work with local businesses as a way to help grow the community.

“When business owners come to Crystal Lake Bank, we look at them as part of the community. Our loan decisions are all made locally which gives us the ability to give quick turnaround time to the borrower.” she said.

Jenny is a member of the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) and has helped start owner’s advisory groups in the local area. She also serves on the Crystal Lake Chamber Board and is a member of the finance committee.

“My goal is to help the community and its business owners with adding value, giving outstanding service, and competitive banking products”.

Crystal Lake Bank and Trust 5100 NW Hwy. • Crystal Lake, IL 60014 • 815-788-3233

Carole Peters, Director of Recruitment, Enrollement, Advisement and Retention Carole Peters is Director of Recruitment, Enrollment, Advisement and Retention for Judson University in Elgin.

“I work with adult students who are returning to school to earn their undergraduate and graduate degrees through the School of Leadership and Business,” she said.

For adults entering the undergraduate program, Peters helps them on developing a road map to complete their bachelor’s degree. Judson University offers five adult majors in Communications, Criminal Justice, Human Services, Human Resource Management and Management and Leadership.

Judson University’s graduate programs include a Master of Arts in Organizational Leadership that is geared to professionals who want to enhance their management and people skills. Peters said the program is popular with Human Resources managers, and professionals in analytical fields, such as Information Technology or Accounting, who want to advance into management. “Many middle managers want to advance into senior levels and a graduate degree can open those doors,” Peters said.

Judson is a four-year Christian university, serving traditional college-aged students and adults. The University has a residential campus in Elgin, and also offers classes in Rockford and online. “Judson University designed the Adult Program around busy adults who work, have family and want to complete a degree,” Peters said.

Judson University • 1151 N. State St. • Elgin, IL 60123 •847-628-1500 847-628-1500• •carole.peters@judsonu.edu carole.peters@judsonu.edu

Business Profile

Business Profile

McHenry County Women: Who’s Who

Gullo Delights in Helping Others When Linda Gullo says she’s a people person, she truly means it.

“I love helping people,” says Gullo, a psychotherapist, who specializes in Counseling, Mediation and Education.

Gullo is the owner of Delight in Living, Ltd. in Crystal Lake, now in it’s fifteenth year. A former high school teacher, she was drawn to the Counseling field after a family member dealt with a traumatic brain injury. “I wanted to learn how to help others who had gone through what he’d gone through,” Gullo said.

She has an MRE from Loyola University of New Orleans in Theology, and a MA in Psychology from Illinois School of Professional Psychology.

Two years ago she added another credential, attending DePaul University Law School to become a mediator.

“So many people are going through divorces or blending families, this is a valuable service I can provide,” she said.

She is at work on a book, “Erasing Adversity,” scheduled for release in late 2013 or early 2014, and serves as an Ambassador for the Crystal Lake Chamber of Commerce and as a Chamber Foundation Board member. She is also involved with the Crystal Lake Kiwanis. “Because I’m active in the community, if a client needs a referral, I usually know someone who can help,” she said.

Delight in Living, Ltd. • 411 E. Congress Parkway, Suite A Crystal Lake, IL • (815) 459-5161 • www.delightinliving.com

HoneyBaked Ham Karen Vedda loves the great tasting meals and sandwiches she sells at HoneyBaked Ham Company and Café, in Crystal Lake.

Vedda describes her store’s specialty as “a premium, hardwood smoked spiral cut ham, that’s finished with a honey and spice glaze.” To round out the meal, HoneyBaked offers delicious homestyle hot or cold side dishes, from potatoes au gratin and green bean casserole, to picnic favorites like potato or pasta salads.

Hams and holidays are perfect partners, but Vedda’s store also does a strong lunch business, both corporate events and retail walk-ins. Lunch favorites include the Smokehouse, which is ham, bacon, BBQ spread, cheddar, onion, lettuce and tomato, served on an onion roll, and the Turkey Classic, which is roast turkey with lettuce, tomato, red onion, Swiss cheese, honey mustard and mayonnaise on multigrain bread. “That one is my personal favorite,” Vedda said.

Another popular option is the Mom’s Night Off family dinner to go, which features sliced ham and turkey, two sides or salads, fresh rolls and cookies. And of course, the classic HoneyBaked Ham holiday dinner is great for Mother’s Day. “It’s a delicious dinner that Dad and the kids can serve, so Mom can relax,” Vedda said.

HoneyBaked Ham 5186 Northwest Hwy. • Suite 139 (between Pingree Rd. & Exchange Dr.) Crystal Lake, IL 60014 • 815-477-4HAM (4426)

McHenry County Women: Who’s Who Catorgory: Specalized Hair Care.

President : Kathleen Devyak Kathleen’s professional hair loss experience spans over 30 years.

When first receiving her cosmetology license and working in the salon industry, she realized she wanted more. Which led her to the path of where she is today, helping women with the sensitive issue of “Hair Loss “the silent epidemic. Her purpose is to help them find solutions. “I have seen first hand the joy and confidence from women who become happily involved with my passion.”

Most recently, Kathleen has been involved with support groups to help women better understand hair loss options. Her dedication commitment and compassion are unparalleled in the medical hair loss industry. Kathleen’s specialized education and service’s allows her to differentiate herself from others.

Our clients can “have the look they’ve always loved.” Regardless of the cause of hair loss, Alopecia, thinning hair or the effects of chemotherapy we provide a calm, welcoming atmosphere from the high pressure hair alternative industry.

We offer private free consultations by appointment when we listen to you. We consider your life style, the extent of your hair loss and discuss what you are most comfortable with.

As a female, when we’re young we quickly learn that our hair is an extension of our personality. It says we’re pretty. Hair is one of the wonders of being a woman.

Kathleen’s Creative Expressions • 665 Ridgeview Dr. McHenry, IL 60050 • 815-759-0329 • kcexpressions.net

Minuteman Press Jeannie Wagner, owner of Minuteman Press in Crystal Lake, has never backed down from a challenge. At 17, she entered the advertising industry and learned from the ground up. Six years ago, she bought a business. A year-and-a-half ago, she became a Stage 3 breast cancer survivor.

Every experience has taught her something valuable.

She began in public relations, then moved into print production.

Working with knowledgeable professionals provided priceless insight she says she couldn’t have gotten any other way. “There’s nothing like handson experience, working alongside someone who really knows the job, to teach you what works and what doesn’t,” she said.

After a successful thirteen-year career, she left advertising to raise a family and to work with her husband in his small businesses. Returning to full time work, she worked to coordinate press tours for a corporation, then she took a job in the medical field. After her father’s passing she left the medical industry and coordinated her mother’s sale of her childhood home and relocated her mom in a Senior Community in Grayslake. After this she decided to get back into print production, and eventually to the purchase of her Minuteman store.

“As a business owner, I’ve learned it’s important to stay on top of the industry and to change as the industry changes. The key to running a business is customer service, because that’s what people are looking for, a friendly and experienced environment,” she said.

Her battle with breast cancer has demonstrated the importance of regular medical care. “I encourage people to get checked, because it matters,” she said.

Minuteman Press 835 Virginia, Suite G • Crystal Lake, IL 60014 • 815-477-2700

Business Profile

Business Profile

McHenry County Women: Who’s Who

Staff of Summers Academy The Summers Academy of Dance and its exceptional professional staff take great pride in being “one team” of women and men working together to provide the most comprehensive dance education and personal service to students of all ages from 18 months through adults in Crystal Lake and the surrounding communities.

Our goal is to offer the best program with a wide variety of dance genres, coupled with a contemporary curriculum and exemplary choreography.

The students can choose general classes such as lyrical or tap, or an individual and “tailored” set of courses to fit their personal dance goals; ballet to perform in classical presentations such as the Nutcracker at Raue Center For The Arts, or Hip Hop and Jazz, to prepare for auditions for our award winning competition team - or do both!

Come check us out at our Annual June Dance Concert, “Raising the Barre” June 14 & 15 at the Raue Center Auditorium!

We are honored to work with the Crystal Lake Chamber and Community to help raise

Back Row, Left to Right: Jennifer Epley-Echols, Vicki Summers, Laura Tobin, Kimberly Banner, Amanda Gee, Amanda Brandstetter, Katya Poulin.

Front Row, Left to Right: Cynthia Christin, Sophie Salt, Angela Dello, Megan Sales, Linda Pohlman. Not Pictured: Michelle Baumgart, Raji Chadha, Karen Bloom, Nicole Colosimo, Laura Brand, Kimberly Craigie, Belinda Morris, Charlee Morris, Victor Ramirez, Maray Gutierrez, Darcie Bender-Hubber Photograph by Janet Kay - From Me 2 You Photography

funds, support and educate through dance performances at a variety of venues and events as well as by presenting dance lecture demonstrations at public and private schools. The Berkshire Ballet Theatre, our pre-professional dance company, the Starr Dancers preparatory company and Summers Dance Crews also volunteer their time and talents for new and creative venues - like

Summers Academy of Dance • 5186 Northwest Hwy Crystal Lake, IL • (815) 477-0033 • summersacademyofdance.com

Owners of The Pizza Place and More A mother and daughter business that’s committed to the community, The Pizza Place is also committed to being green. “We live in the community and we want to serve the community,” said co-owner Pam Witte.

She and Thea Johnson opened the business in 2008. Experienced entrepreneurs, Witte and Johnson wanted to offer superior service and a menu full of delicious, freshly made options. “Our dough, sauces, dressings and desserts are all made here,” said Johnson.

The Pizza Place uses locally produced ingredients whenever possible and while the business has always recycled, they have recently begun to offer plates and utensils made from biodegradable plastic.

“A cleaner environment is another way that we can give back to the community,” said Witte.

The Pizza Place also offers a number of vegetarian and gluten free items. Pam’s daughter Jessica Seguin, marketing administrator, is the gluten-free taste tester. “I knew having a gluten free menu could not only help me, but also many others with allergies,” Seguin said.

Thea’s daughter Kari Johnson is the restaurant manager and her daughter Brianna is responsible for the store’s name. “This is an extension of our family and we’re proud of it,” said Kari Johnson.

The Pizza Place and More • 230 W. Virginia Street Crystal Lake, IL • (815) 477-7777 • www.thepizzaplaceandmore.com

Hip Hop Explosion at the Dole Mansion, next date TBD in June!

Exciting news! We are moving to a new location, 5186 Northwest Hwy by June 1, 2013 with three state of the art studios!

Stop by, say hi and receive a complimentary class of your choice. Just call and ask one of our “team members” for a VIP Guest Pass and Rewards Program @ 815-477-0033!

McHenry County Women: Who’s Who Phoenix Woodworking President Proud of Employees No matter what challenge she faces as she works with clients, Sandra Pierce, president and founder of Phoenix Woodworking in Woodstock, has already met the biggest of all - rebuilding the company, literally from the ground up.

In 1996, the company, then under previous ownership, was nearly destroyed after a fire burned its facility to the ground. Within a few days Pierce, the company president, had organized the employees and launched a new venture, appropriately named Phoenix Woodworking Corporation.

Phoenix Woodworking specializes in custom architectural millwork, furniture, cabinetry, store fixtures, lockers and other storage solutions. The company also creates beautiful office furniture, cabinets for kitchens, dens, home libraries, fireplace surrounds, entertainment rooms and more. “As our business has grown, we have taken larger projects outside of our local community but I am grateful for the “roots” that I have grown in McHenry County,” says Pierce.

A graduate of Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, with a bachelor’s degree in Industrial Technology, Pierce is very active in the community. She serves on McHenry County College Foundation board, the McHenry County Workforce Investment Board and on the Board of Directors for the Raue Center, among other organizations.

“Without the commitment and skill of our employees, Phoenix Woodworking would not be what it is today. As a businesswoman, I believe investing in our local workforce is an investment in our future,” she says.

Phoenix Woodworking • 2000 Duncan Place, Woodstock, IL (815) 338-9338 • Fax (815) 338-9383 • www.phoenixwoodworking.com

Elite Laser & Skin Spa DeAnna Kell DeAnna obtained a lot of her experience from the Gold Coast of Chicago working at a medical spa and at a high-end plastic surgeons office off of Michigan Ave. She is highly trained on all skin types for men and women. She has done skin care treatments on Playboy models and local celebrities as well. In January 2009 when DeAnna Kell opened Elite Laser and Skin Spa in Algonquin, she said she wanted people to know that by incorporating an effective skin care rejuvenation regimen into their lifestyle, they can greatly enhance the age of their skin. “The skin’s natural ability to keep itself looking youthful and in good shape diminishes over time”, says DeAnna. “We assist men and women by providing a personalized and non-surgical approaches to anti-aging skin.” Elite Laser and Skin Spa is a Medical Spa that specializes in prolonging the appearance and life of your skin through state of the art skin and laser procedures. Their highly trained professional team consists of licensed estheticians, certified laser technicians, a Registered Nurse, and a board certified Plastic Surgeon. All treatments at Elite are done while respecting the privacy of their clients and creating a medical spa that is as comfortable as your home. “We realize you have a choice of med spas”, says DeAnna “and we believe you will find what you are looking for at Elite.”

Elite Laser and Skin Spa 1482 Merchant Drive Algonquin, IL 60102 • 847-658-5858 www.elitelaserandskinspa.com

Business Profile

Business Profile

McHenry County Women: Who’s Who

A+ Dog Training: Lindy Sander, Owner At an early age my thirst for better relationships with my dogs and horses drove me to seek out, professionals that were successful and could teach me the “how-to”. Over 35 years later and thousands of my own client success stories has kept me focused on what really matters; helping dogs and their owners learn what each other needs from their relationship. Dog training is as much training the owner as training the dog. Dog training is not about teaching your dog to sit and stay, it’s about teaching them how to listen. Our variety of training methods has been proven successful. Family participation is essential for the dog to be part of the family.

Classes offered are Puppy Kindergarten, Basic and Advanced Obedience, Agility and private sessions for Behavior Modification. I pride myself in my professionalism and personal attention to my clients needs. Many of my clients have been extremely successful with therapy dog work, performance and/or conformation competition.

One of my most memorable moments was watching my dog, Gandy, play Toto in Crystal Lake South High School production of Wizard of Oz. Working with those talented young adults and watching them interact with “Toto” was truly an experience I will never forget.

My most rewarding experience is when a client tells me, “I never thought my dog could be this good!”, then I know I’ve done my job.

Make your dog “the best they can be”, come visit A+ Dog Training.

Lindy Sander • A+ Dog Training • 9170 Trinity Drive Lake in the Hills • 815-337-5307 • aplusdogtraining.com

Simply Learn | Photography Workshops As a fine art photographer, Nancy Merkling enjoys the many facets of both the creative and technical aspects of her medium. Through the “Simply Learn| Photography Workshops” and the “4th Fridays” at the Starline Gallery, Merkling teaches people about their cameras and photography as well as helps the community appreciate the talent of regional artists.

“It’s fulfiling to inspire others and pay forward what I’ve learned,” Merkling said.

The Simply Learn | Photography Workshops are designed to meet the needs of photographers at all levels, by focusing on skills that build upon one another. “Photography is such a big field, so these are intended to be next steps. For example, if someone is familiar with shutter speed, their next step may be to understand apertures,” said Merkling, principal photographer and instructor for Simply Learn Photography Workshops.

From beginners to professionals, the workshops offer room to grow.

The workshops lay a foundation in digital photography by teaching camera basics, technical settings, composition and black and white photography, photographing people and more. New workshops coming soon include Critique, Being An Exhibiting Artist and iPhone Photography. Individual portfolio review and mentoring sessions are also available. For more information, visit: http://www.nancymerkling.com/.

The “4th Fridays” events include a juried art exhibit and photography contest, a Featured Artist exhibit, live music, appetizers, and cash bar, in a historical renovated former factory. Admission is $5 at the door. For more information, visit : http://www.nancymerkling.com/4th-fridays-atthe-starline/ . “Each month we have 600-1000 people come through our door from up to 2 hours away. It’s crazy, but we love it,” said Merkling.

Nancy Merkling 400 W. Front Street • Harvard, IL 60033 • 815-347-8535

Lindy with her Cairn Terrier, Lizzie and her Rottweiler, Hammer

McHenry County Women: Who’s Who Owner: Yours & Meyn Simply Designed When Mary Meyn, owner of Yours & Meyn Simply Designed, describes her merchandise as unique, she truly means it. “The store never looks the same twice. My merchandise is constantly changing and at most, I’ll bring in something two or three times,” she said.

Meyn’s three-year-old shop in downtown Crystal Lake specializes in home accessories, such as lamps, wall art, accent and upholstered furniture. “I’m a retail source for tasteful adornments for your home. I bring in things you don’t see anywhere else as well as offering in-home consultations,” she said.

She offers a full range of services from room layouts to the well-chosen details that pull a room together. “Many customers simply bring in their phones with a photo of the room they want to finish, and we can provide ideas right in the store,” she said.

Homes have always been part of Meyn’s life. Her father was a builder and she has worked for home builders. She has decorated model homes, been a home stager and a successful freelance home stylist. Those experiences demonstrated the need for a store like Yours & Meyn.

Yours & Meyn Simply Designed • 37 N. Williams Street Crystal Lake, IL 60014 • 815-455-2500 • www.YoursAndMeyn.com

Executive Coach: Lynn Mitchell Lynn Mitchell is an Executive Coach and the principal at Lynn Mitchell & Associates, a Leadership Development consultancy. Her company provides assessments, training and coaching services to leaders in the McHenry County area.

Lynn knows what it takes for a leader to thrive in a fast-paced, pressure-filled world. She’s coached hundreds of leaders in her career and knows what drives, motivates and sabotages top performers. She helps leaders see their blind spots and get out of their own way so they can inspire and engage others. It’s proven that leaders have greater career success and more life balance when they work with a qualified coach.

Lynn holds the Professional Certified Coach credential from the International Coach Federation and has a graduate certificate in Executive Coaching from Fielding University. She is a recognized expert and speaker on the topic of Emotional Intelligence as a foundational leadership competency. She especially enjoys coaching women in leadership positions.

Her clients come from all industries and all organizational levels. They are usually looking to change something: a behavior that’s getting in the way of success, a frustrating relationship, a career in transition. Most people are looking to develop themselves as leaders, maximize their team’s performance, and figure out how to achieve their career goals.

To help leaders achieve their goals, Lynn uses a process-driven approach to coaching that is rigorous and gets fast results. Her holistic approach to executive coaching helps develop leaders who are resilient, compassionate, and conscious of how their behaviors impact others and affect bottom line results.

Lynn also brings to her coaching practice over 25 years of business experience including corporate leadership positions at IBM, small-business management consulting, and graduate-level teaching.

If you are looking for a wise counsel with plenty of business experience to help guide your personal journey of self-discovery and leadership growth, then learn more at lynnmitchellcoaching.com or contact Lynn at 815-236-3204.

Lynn Mitchell & Associates • PO Box 685 Woodstock, IL • 815-236-3204 • lynnmitchellcoaching.com

Business Profile

Business Profile

McHenry County Women: Who’s Who

President and CEO: McHenry County Community Foundation Robin Doeden, President and CEO of the McHenry County Community Foundation started her job last October. “It’s been a whirlwind, but so much fun meeting new people and new organizations,” she said.

As the head of the Foundation, she works to bring local residents and agencies together to fund projects for those in need. “The Community Foundation raises funds for not-for-profits across McHenry County. I’m a resource that residents can use to help support the causes they care about,” she said.

Established in 2001, the McHenry County Community Foundation provides anonymity for donors, and administrative support to small not-for-profits who may not have the in-house resources or staff to manage ongoing gifts. “Most of the funds are set up so that giving will continue even after the donor is gone. It becomes a family legacy gift,” she explained.

In addition to family funds, the Foundation has also established funds to benefit the Huntley Public Library, Family Health Partnership Clinic, the Land Conservancy of McHenry County, Adult and Child Therapy, and many more.

Recent projects that have been funded through the Foundation’s efforts include a rebate program to cap abandoned wells, and a handbook for cancer survivors.

McHenry County Community Foundation 101 S. Benton St., Woodstock, IL 60098 • 815-338-4483

Owners of Mastercoil Spring After their father began Mastercoil Spring 30 years ago, Cathy Musielak Miller and Sandi Musielak Wesinger have began the process of taking over their father’s company by learning the many facets of the business.

Today, the sisters are proud to say that McHenry-based Mastercoil, which manufactures springs and wire forms, just celebrated its first anniversary as a woman owned business. Miller serves as Chief Executive Officer and Wesinger is the Chief Operating Officer.

Cathy and Sandi grew up with springs, as their father has been in the business for over 55 years. Now at the helm, these two women, with six children between them and a younger sister, look forward to eventually passing the legacy down to their daughters and family.

Three of their children are already employed by Mastercoil.

Mastercoil, which employs about 50 people, is now a global supplier, delivering to customers in Germany, Chile, South Africa, Spain, South Korea, Switzerland, Argentina and China, as well as North America. This year, Miller and Wesinger will travel to Spain for an aerosol industry conference, where they look forward to meeting current customers and connecting with new ones. “We love being ambassadors for the company,” Miller said.

Mastercoil Spring • 4010 Albany McHenry, IL • (815) 344-0051 • www.mastercoil.com

McHenry County Women: Who’s Who Mary Koss Owner Mary Koss, owner of Crystal Lake’s MarySaysItAll, is an independent voice contractor proud to be on the cutting edge of digital advertising. “Just as the microwave changed the way we cook, and e-mail changed the way we communicate, digital production has changed advertising,” she said.

Working with her husband John Koss, who serves as the business’ production manager, Mary Koss lends her voice to digital advertising, as well as corporate needs such as product narration, video explanation, recorded answering systems and more. MarySaysItAll creates digital productions complete with music and sound effects on par with radio and television studio audio productions.

For business owners who want to put their own voice to work, MarySaysItAll’s “Website Welcome!” offers turnkey, professional production services onsite, at your place of business. “If you already have a website, adding a professional recording of your own voice makes it more personalized, and maximizes your investment,” she said.

A mother of three, Koss is thrilled to use her broadcasting background in this new venture. “In the old days, you had to go into a radio or television station to create professional productions. We’re offering that service affordably and conveniently to local businesses, which is really exciting,” Koss said.

MarySaysItAll • Mary Koss www.marysaysitall.com • Voiceover Productions • 815-459-4001

Pioneer Center for Human Services Susan Krause is Director of Organizational Advancement for Pioneer Center for Human Services, serving greater McHenry County.

“We are a comprehensive community-based not-for-profit agency serving a wide range of clients, including those with mental health and developmental disabilities, the homeless, victims of sexual assault,” she said.

The former executive director of McHenry County Youth Service Bureau, Krause came to Pioneer Center when the agencies merged in 2010. “We served some of the same populations, and we definitely had a shared mission, so the merger has been a very positive thing,” she said.

She began her career as a high school science teacher, working with students who faced a number of life challenges. She returned to school with plans to become a guidance counselor, but instead took a position as a probation officer, then as a juvenile court intake director. With a desire to help teens before they entered the court system, she joined YSB in 1984.

At Pioneer Center, one of Krause’s goals is to establish partnerships within the organization and in the community to improve access to services. “We want to work with doctors, hospitals and other service providers for similar and different populations, so people can have one place to go to access care; an integrated one stop shop,” she said.

Pioneer Center for Human Services • 4001 Dayton Street McHenry, IL 60050 • 815-344-1230 • www.pioneercenter.org

Business Profile

Business Profile

McHenry County Women: Who’s Who

Admissions

Behavioral Health

Sandy Ryndak

Ronica Patel

Sandy Ryndak, Director of Admissions, is often the first point of contact for new Pioneer Center for Human Services clients.

Individuals seeking help are coping with intellectual and developmental disabilities, mentalhealthconcerns,andmore.Individuals reach out to Ryndak and her Team first when interested in receiving services.

Ryndak has a Master’s Degree in Community Counseling and is a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor. Ryndak has been working in the field since 2005, providing counseling to a wide variety of clients, as well as managing various behavioral health programs. She also has been providing supervision to interns and clinical staff for more than 6 years.

Through her work at Pioneer Center, Ryndak has been able to compassionately navigate individuals through the often confusing and intimidating path of receiving help. “My favorite thing about working in the social services field is assisting individuals with making progress towards the goals they want to achieve,” she said. Ryndak has recently converted her Department to a complete Walk-In Appointment system so people can receive support on any day. “It takes a lot of courage to ask for help and we need be ready when someone does,” she said.

Ronica Patel is the Director of Behavioral Health for Pioneer Center and oversees all residential, outpatient and dayservice behavioral health programs for adults, adolescents and children, as well as the homeless services through McHenry Public Action to Deliver Shelter (P.A.D.S.). “I enjoy being innovative and developing programs that help our clients,” she said.

Pioneer Center operates five residential group homes for adults with mental illness, located throughout McHenry County. Outpatient therapy is available at offices in McHenry and Woodstock.

Children and adolescents can receive intensive home therapy. Day service programs include adult psycho-social rehabilitation. “It’s structured group therapy where clients can learn to manage their psychological challenges,” Patel said.

Previously with McHenry County Youth Service Bureau, she joined Pioneer Center when the agencies merged in 2010.

4001 Dayton Street McHenry, IL 60050 www.pioneercenter.org (815) 344-1230 Admissions: (815) 759-7204 GetHelp@pioneercenter.org

4001 Dayton Street McHenry, IL 60050 www.pioneercenter.org (815) 344-1230

Transcription and Translation

Terry Thompson From documents in Aramaic to sales reports in Russian, Terry Thompson, CEO of TTE Transcripts Worldwide, Ltd., can find a translator.

With offices in Huntley and Schaumburg, TTE Transcripts is a transcription and translation agency serving companies around the world. “We handle everything from conference presentations and annual reports to radio broadcasts and TV shows,” Thompson said.

The company has recently launched an iPhone and iPad app known as IdeaScribe, which allows users to record spoken word, and with a single transmission, upload it to TTE Transcripts. “We can transcribe it and send it back to them,” Thompson explained. The app is available through Apple’s online store.

Thompson previously worked for a company that produced motivational audio programs and loves owning her own business. “Every day is different and I never stop learning,” she said.

1900 E. Golf Road Suite 950 Schaumburg, IL 60173 847-592-6211 www.ttetranscripts.com

McHenry County Women: Who’s Who Intrigue Fitness

Appraiser

Business Profile Insurance Agent

Linda K. Wagner Linda Costoff

Karly Bulinski

Intrigue Fitness of Lake in the Hills is a women-only fitness studio, created to be a fun, friendly place to work out, says owner and certified fitness instructor Linda Costoff.

Karly Bulinski, appraiser with Steffan’s Jewelers in McHenry, is the fourth generation of her family to work in the jewelry business started by her great grandparents in 1946.

Intrigue specializes in pole dance and hoop fitness, which promotes confidence and a positive body image for women of all fitness levels.

Bulinski writes appraisals for insurance coverage, measuring and identifying stones, grading the color and clarity of diamonds. While the appraisal sets a value for replacement costs, it also includes a photo of the piece. “It’s more detailed and in depth, so if it ever has to be replaced, it can be done more accurately,” Bulinski said.

Pole dance combines cardio, strengthbuilding, and tones the core and upper body. “It’s a full work-out that lets you look pretty doing it,” said Costoff.

Hooping begins with classic hula hoop moves, then expands to include arms, shoulders and more. “It’s a great core strengthener and burns more calories than you realize,” she said.

Intrigue offers a variety of other classes as well. “When women leave here, they’ve exercised and had fun. That’s what I love,” Costoff said.

She has been an appraiser for a year and enjoys learning from her aunt, Suzanne Cannon, a Graduate Gemologist and the store’s owner. In May, Bulinski will become a Graduate Gemologist, as well, when she completes her studies at the Gemological Institute of America.

Employing a proactive working style with her customers is a key objective of her agency.

Linda can help identify gaps in protection and financial needs and also assist with helpful ideas and information along the way. She looks forward to helping families protect the things that are important – family, home, car and more.

Linda and her agency have been recognized by Allstate as a Premier Service Agency and Honor Ring recipient for 2012.

(847) 515-3500

™

Intrigue Fitness 9115 Trinity Drive Lake in the Hills, IL 60156 224.678.9943 www.intrigue-fitness.com

With over 24 years in the insurance industry, Linda understands the value of excellent service.

Being accessible and engaged in daily activities is a differentiating characteristic, one that sets her apart from the competition.

Her team works tirelessly to ensure prompt and courteous attention for all.

Steffan’s Jewelers 325 N. Front St. (Rt. 31) McHenry, IL 60050 www.steffansjewelers.com (815) 385-6070

4581 Princeton Lane, Ste. 117 Lake In The Hills, IL linda.wagner@allstate.com

© 2011 Allstate Insurance Company

Business Profile

McHenry County Women: Who’s Who

Professional Organizer

Landscaping

Branch Manager

Molly Clough

Jean McDaniel

Norie Hampton

With experience in both professional organization and visual design, Molly Clough, owner of Creative Organization and Design is proud to offer a variety of unique services for small business and residential clients.

Molly holds a BFA in Fine Arts from Columbia College Chicago, additional education in graphic design and professional organizing.

She is a proud member of NAPO (National, Association, of Professional, Organizing) and the Crystal Lake Chamber.

Her organizing services are always customized to her clients needs. She organizes anything from craft rooms to computer files and almost everything in between.

“My approach is hands on, nonjudgmental, and one-on-one with my clients,” she said.

Seven years ago I started Dream Gardens with a rake, hoe, wheelbarrow, $100 and a little red convertible. I have had the pleasure of working with wonderful people and take pride in watching Dream Gardens expand and grow each year. “I truly am...living my dream,” said Jean.

Jean is very dedicated to her hometown of Crystal Lake. Every year she does a community volunteer project at Crystal Lake Central High School, where she helps with landscaping & design before big events like graduation.

Jean is also proud to support other women in business and believes in empowering other women to live/ work on their dreams.

Dream Gardens offers a variety of services from landscape and design, to mowing, yard clean-up, trimming, pruning, hardscape, flower boxes, and much more!

Whether she’s helping a member get back on their feet after a financial challenge, or assisting someone in establishing their first account, Norie Hampton, Branch Manager for BCU, your local credit union in Crystal Lake, loves her job.

“At BCU, your financial wellbeing is our ONLY priority. That’s what motivates us to deliver quality products at outstanding rates, coupled with outstanding service that let’s you know We’ve Got Your Back,” said Hampton “Because the credit union is non-for-profit, we are able to return our earnings to members in the form of lower-rate loan products and higher dividend savings products,” Hampton said.

“In addition, BCU offers the ability to bank anywhere, anytime with online and mobile banking, and a convenient branch office nearby.

Opening an account is easy. All you need is a $5 deposit and a few minutes to complete the enrollment “said Hampton.

www.creativeorganizationanddesign.com

(815) 355-5237

45 Elmhurst Street Crystal Lake, IL 60014 (815) 861-9031 www.dreamgardenjean.com

415 S. Main St. Crystal Lake, IL 60014

McHenry County Women: Who’s Who Dog Caregivers

Vicki Smith & Kristin Bourey Two sisters, passionate about animals, have launched their dream business.

In December, 2012 Vicki Smith and Kristin Bourey opened Bebe’s Doggie Daycare & Grooming Spa in Crystal Lake. “We both have a passion for animals and decided to put our experience together in a business,” Smith said.

A certified groomer, Smith has twelve years of experience. Bourey is certified in pet care and has experience working in a veterinary office, with boarding and daycare. Both are pro-active in continuing their education.

The daycare facility offers open play areas, plus five cottages, for eating and rest time, or for dogs who prefer a quiet environment. Grooming services include bathing, walk-in nail trims, hair trims and breed specific haircuts. “It’s very clean and friendly, and we offer customized care with a personal touch,” said Smith.

15 Morgan Street Crystal Lake, IL 60014 (815) 526-3024

Design

Karin Betz With a passion for fashion, Karin started her career early in one of Europe’s finest fashion schools where she became an accomplished fashion designer and seamstress. Today Karin manages her own custom sewing work shop in Crystal Lake. In addition she owns a warehouse in Lake in the Hills that stores fabrics and samples and handles larger shipments.

Her projects reach from fitting delicate bridal gowns and making special occasion dresses to window fashions such as draperies, cornices, bedding and more. Her product line also includes blinds and shades. She loves to work with her customers on design, fabric selection and color coordination. Most recently there is a trend towards automated drapes and blinds. Her products are always installed by her in-house team.

Karin is very active in the community.

Presently she is part of the centennial committee, planning the 100 year anniversary of Crystal Lake as an official city. She also runs the Crystal Lake Holzgerlingen sister cities program.

BetzDesign Inc. Please, contact Karin for an appointment

815-459-9078 www.betzdesign.net

Business Profile

Tutoring

Leann Campbell Bit of a Boost is a boutique tutoring business located in Crystal Lake’s Legacy Arts Park. Whether students K-8 need that extra boost to feel confident in the classroom or are looking to be challenged, Bit of a Boost provides the strategies and support students need to achieve success and become confident lifelong learners.

“Every child’s needs are different, which is why I feel it is important to offer variety of remedial and enrichment programs, such as Boost One on One and Boost and Beyond,” said owner and facilitator, Leann Campbell. These programs are then tailored to meet student’s specific needs and goals.

While learning is important, having fun while learning is just as important.

Please contact Bit of a Boost to schedule your free consultation.

401 Country Club Road Suite 317 Crystal Lake, IL 60014 815-382-0268 www.bitofaboost.com

Business Profile

McHenry County Women: Who’s Who

Travel Agent

Purveyor of Fine Foods

Psychotherapy

Neelie Kruse

Sharon M. Shriver

(with Office Mascot Diego)

Colleen Campbell

Sharon Shriver, owner of Gypsy’s Gourmet Goodies of Crystal Lake, is proud to be the distributor for two great tasting specialty food lines.

Dave’s Coffee Cakes creates eight-inch cakes in a variety of flavors. “We have all the fruit flavors, combinations like Strawberry, Apple-Walnut, Cream Cheese Pecan, Triple Chocolate,” said Shriver.

Lou’s Old-Fashioned offers locally grown and produced, relishes, salsas and jams.

“We have sweet and dill pickles with garlic, horseradish, jalapeno, pickled beets, jams in all kinds of flavors,” said Shriver, adding that eighty-percent of the produce used in Lou’s products is grown in northern Illinois.

Find both at the Crystal Lake Antique Mall, or at Gypsy’s Gourmet Goodies’ booth at local farmer’s markets and antique fairs, including the Kane & Lake County Flea Markets.

Even after 34 years in the travel industry, Neelie Kruse still gets excited about planning trips.

“I love how every trip we plan is different and it’s exciting. We’ve done many fiftieth anniversary trips and destination weddings where the whole family has gone on vacation together, so everyone can share the special day,” said Kruse, CTC and owner of Cary Travel Express.

A full service travel agency, Cary Travel Express has received the Northwest Herald’s “Best of the Fox” award and offers outstanding customer service. “Most of us have at least 25 years in the industry and we’re committed to making your trip perfect,” Kruse said.

Kruse is a Director for the CaryGrove Chamber of Commerce and a member of the Algonquin and Crystal Lake chambers.

Cary Travel Express 9 Jandus Road, Cary, IL www.carytravelexpress.com (847) 639-3300 Join Cary Travel Express on Facebook!

“Bringing Good Food to Good People!”

2 N. Williams St. (Crystal Lake Antique Mall)

Crystal Lake, Illinois 60012 (815) 790-4856 sshriver65@gmail.com

Psychotherapist Colleen Campbell, A.C.S.W., L.C.S.W. specializes in helping individuals, couples and family members find solutions to life’s biggest challenges, whether it’s a marital crisis, life transition, the loss of a career, health or a loved one.

With over thirty years of experience, Campbell practices with a philosophy of providing quality, skilled solution focused and strength-based therapy. She believes in tailoring her treatment approach in a collaborative and supportive partnership with her clients.

“I believe the foundation of healing begins by connecting my client’s values with proven problemsolving techniques. Together, we’ll find ways to implement change, which promotes peace and health,” she said.

A resident of McHenry County since 1977, Campbell has worked for Family Services of McHenry County, Crystal Lake School Districts 47 and 155, before establishing her own practice in 2011.

Colleen J Campbell Consulting and Counseling 100 N Walkup Ave. Crystal Lake, IL 60014 (815) 455-2020

McHenry County Women: Who’s Who

Business Profile

Senior Care

Banquet & Catering

Attorney

Jennifer Prell

Bernice Zubrzycki

Jill J. Struck

Whether you’re hosting an intimate gathering, a grand wedding, training session, or a company picnic, Bernice Zubrzycki, Owner of CEC Events & Catering and 31 North Banquet & Conference Center has the experience and resources to make it an event to remember.

For over 30 years, Bernice has been partnering with local families and businesses to make their events a delicious success. “Whether you are a State Senator, a CEO, or a bride-tobe, our determination to exceptional service, relentless attention to detail, and unwavering commitment to excellence makes us the preferred facility for anyone wanting a flawlessly planned event,” Bernice says.

Her luxury venue 31 North Banquet & Conference Center brings a level of style and elegance to McHenry that, until recently, could only be found at the most exclusive locations in Chicago.

JILL J. STRUCK is a partner with the firm MILITELLO & STRUCK, LLC in Crystal Lake. Jill has been practicing law in Crystal Lake since 2000. She received her undergraduate degree from Arizona State University and her law degree from DePaul University.

Jill is a member of the Illinois State and McHenry County bar associations. She is also the Membership Director of the Lake in the Hills Chapter of Dynamic Professional Women’s Network.

Jill strives to make long lasting relationships with her clients to best serve their needs. Jill’s practice includes business law, estate planning/elder law, and real estate. She thoroughly enjoys helping her clients and emphasizes the importance of always placing the client’s interests first.

Jennifer is an older adult and senior care expert helping families sort through the maze of senior housing and guiding them to the best options available. Whether it’s someone asking how to help their loved one stay home safely or moving into an assisted living type of community her free consultations have helped thousands. During discovery she finds out what level of care is needed, whether or not someone needs an elder law attorney to help with the process or even information on the Veteran’s Aid and Attendance Benefit (a benefit for senior veteran’s for home care or assisted living needs).

With over 25 years of pack and move experience, Jennifer has been helping people transition from one home to another through her company Paxem, Inc. She is a Senior Move Manager helping throughout the right-sizing and moving process.

NORTH 31 BANQUET & CONFERENCE CENTER

847-462-0885 Jennifer.Prell@Elderwerks.com Elderwerks.com

217 N. Front Street McHenry, IL 60050 815-344-0330 www.31NorthBanquets.com and www.CECEventsCatering.com

MILITELLO & STRUCK, LLC MILITELLO & STRUCK, LLC 820 E. Terra Cotta Ave, #116 Crystal Lake, IL 60014 jill@militello-law.com (815) 788-9900

Business Profile

McHenry County Women: Who’s Who

Interior Designer

Embroiderer

Attorney

Carmen Boyer

Janice Means

Dr. Elaine Ramesh

To create a beautiful interior, Carmen Boyer likes to look out the window.“I often take inspiration from seasonal colors,” said Boyer, decorator and owner of White Oak Interiors in Algonquin.

Spring offers a vast palate of bright and soft color, while summer shades include serene, restful water blues and the lush green of foliage. Fall shades are warm, and rich, while winter offers the stark beauty of white paired with vibrant accents.

In business since 1996, White Oak Interiors creates beautiful rooms and work environments by blending existing items, including creative repurposing with fresh ideas and new colors.

“A designer typically works from a palate of three colors—a main color, a secondary color and an accent. When you’re using natural colors, you know they’ll always work in harmony.” Carmen Boyer of White Oak Interiors.

EmbroidMe owner Janice Means is excited to have a new way to connect with customers.

“We recently launched a presence on Facebook and LinkedIn and we’ve had a great response. People use so many ways to find information and we need to be where they are,” Means said.

Both the EmbroidMe website and Facebook page offer photos of new products and ideas designed to spark creativity. EmbroidMe specializes in custom embroidered and screen-printed apparel and promotional items, ranging from shirts and hats to backpacks, calculators and more.

The Crystal Lake location has been in business for seven years, Means purchased it in 2012. As a soccer and band mom, Means knew there was a ready market for EmbroidMe’s products and she loves working with the business community, schools, and, and other organizations to support their promotional needs.

White Oak Interiors 4 White Oak Ct. Algonquin, IL 60102

6226 Northwest Hwy Crystal Lake, IL 60014

www.whiteoakinteriors.com 847-854-8892

(815) 444-1081

www.embroidme-crystallake.com

As an Intellectual Property attorney Dr. Elaine Ramesh protects the intangible.

An associate with Ladas & Parry L.L.P., of Chicago, Ramesh assists clients with patent protection for their inventions and trademarks for their product names. “My clients include individuals and companies. Even those who have worked with an IP attorney in the past might want to consult an attorney again now, as there have been significant changes in the law this year,” she said.

A resident of McHenry County, Ramesh has a bachelor’s degree in Medicinal Chemistry and a doctorate in Organic Chemistry received under a Nobel Laureate in the field. Her chemistry background is invaluable, especially in her work with the pharmaceutical industry. “I have to understand what was created by researchers and translate the science appropriately for the legal specialists in the U.S. Patent Office to convince them to grant a patent,” she said.

Her 100-year old firm focuses exclusively on Intellectual Property law.

Ladas & Parry LLP 224 South Michigan Avenue Suite 1600 Chicago, IL 60604 Tel 312.427.1300 www.ladas.com

fashion & beauty

Find What Suits You

I By LAUREN LYNCH I 100 McHenry County Magazine • May 2013

W

hile it may be easy to catch a case of the Mondays at the office, a drab suit shouldn’t add fuel to the fire.

Instead, find something sharp to wear to turn a potentially dismal day at work into a great start to the week.

According to Elliot Staples, senior vice president of design for The Limited, 2013 is all about color and texture when it comes to women’s suits.

From his office in New York, he describes over the phone some of the newest women’s suit shades as “grassy green” and “soft tangerine” that keeps spirits soaring on even the rainiest day.

As for fabric, Staples says that The Limited’s new collections drape easily but contain enough weight where movement isn’t sacrificed.

As the mastermind behind the brand’s unique versatility, Staples discusses with his team the details surrounding a woman’s workweek and designs each look based on moods, workload and even a woman’s social life.

“We think about what her days are,” Staples says. “In the beginning of the week, she’s going to be sharper and look sharper.

On Tuesday, she’ll be on her feet more, so she’ll be wearing more separates … on Thursday, she’ll be dressed more day-tonight since she’ll be going out with friends after work, and Friday is more casual … .”

Whether Staples is designing a skirt or classic pantsuit — which he predicts will make a “big return” — he doesn’t commit all of his attention to one particular style each season.

“The Limited offers so many options,” Staples says. “It just depends on each woman’s environment [on how they choose their looks].”

Photos provided by The Limited McHenryCountyMagazine.com

Get The ‘Broken Suit’ Look Like many creative thinkers, Staples doesn’t mind taking a few risky steps in order to develop a trendsetting result.

He says he likes what he calls the “broken suit” look, in which women can mix and match their collections by pairing different colored blazers with skirts or pants.

“It’s all about the idea of breaking up the wardrobe,” he says.

Staples anticipates plenty of longer, full-length pants in a sleek, skinny style this spring. As for tops, color blocking will make a comeback, pairing well under comfortable jackets for a sporty look.

Despite his desire to think outside the box, Staples does adhere to a few rules that he stresses should never be broken.

“Don’t over accessorize,” he warns, adding that he refers to the two-out-of-three rule: select two items to wear at a maximum, but never all three with an outfit.

“Don’t forget, a belt also becomes jewelry, too,” he says.

Staples’ own rule of thumb is that he never combines a statement necklace with statement earrings; it’s either one or the other.

His toned-down approach also carries over to color selections.

“Color is a big thing,” he says. “Be careful and try to neutralize.”

Facing page: Front tie herringbone sheath with cross-tie bodice paired with a laser cut oversized wristlet bag with zipper and slip pockets inside.

At right: Hooked slouchy-fit jacket with small metal closure paired with a polyester short sleeve layering shell and a 24-inch inseam Drew slant pocket soft crop pant.

Below: Polyester top with sheer paneling paired with a bias-pleated soft polyester crepe skirt.

COLOR is a big thing. Be CAREFUL and try to NEUTRALIZE. Elliot Staples, senior vice president of design for The Limited

At right: Slim peak lapel blazer with navy/white stripe lining paired with a polyester button-down cut-away neckline blouse with mixed print and Cassidy split waistband men’s trouser pant plus a large laser-cut oversized wristlet bag.

102 McHenry County Magazine • May 2013

Above: Hooked slouchy-fit jacket with small metal closure paired with a polyester top with sheer paneling and 24-inch inseam Drew slant pocket soft crop pant.

Additional Considerations

Even footwear is being taken into consideration this season. Lower kitten heels are becoming more of a trend over platform styles, Staples says.

“You can build a whole outfit just around the shoes,” he says.

Purses are viewed as another important

Above: Hooked slouchy-fit jacket with small metal closure paired with a polyester short sleeve layering shell and 24-inch inseam Drew slant pocket soft crop pant.

accessory to add to a business look.

“The handbag is part of the big picture,” Staples says. “Once in a while, you should switch it out.”

In an evolving fashion world, what drives the success of the brand he works for is its timing, Staples says.

“The Limited interprets trends for our customer, and it’s crucial for us to deliver them when she’s ready for them.” mc

McHenryCountyMagazine.com

fashion & beauty

Feeling FRAMED How To Pick The Perfect Glasses For Any Face Shape I By Betsy Demitropoulos Photos by MICHELE IDSTEIN I

Choosing the right eyeglass frames can change your entire appearance, but finding frames that fit your shape and proportions properly isn’t always simple.

Allyson Thompson, optician at Precision Eye Care LLC in Algonquin, knows one of the secrets to picking out a pair of stylish frames — bring another pair of eyes with you.

“When picking out glasses, bring your significant other or a good friend with you,” she says. “Bring someone who will give you an honest opinion.”

Precision Eye Care is owned and operated

by Dr. Timothy Beyer and Dr. Joseph Morfoot, and Leigh Ann White works alongside Thompson as the other optician at the practice. Thompson says Precision Eye Care carries a large selection of the latest designer eyewear including Coach, IZOD, Nike, Dolce & Gabbana, Cole Haan and Ray Ban. Thompson says a person’s bone structure, eye prescription, eye color, hair color, personality and lifestyle are all factors she considers when fitting someone into a pair of frames. She offers a general rule for picking out frames.

“Choose styles that are the opposite of your face shape,” she says. “If you have a square-

3 Precision Eye Care carries a large selection of the latest designer eyewear including Coach, IZOD, Nike, Dolce & Gabbana, Cole Haan and Ray Ban.

shaped face, choose round frames to create curves and soften your look.”

Knowing your face shape is a great way to help you determine which frame styles will look best on you. According to the Vision Council of America, the most common face shapes are oval, heart, oblong, round and square.

Oval

Characteristics of an oval-shaped face include the chin being slightly narrower than the forehead. With this type of face, your frame choice should keep the oval’s natural balance.

Select frames that are as wide, or wider than, the broadest part of the face, and avoid low, swooping temples, which will unbalance the face.

It’s common for people with an oval face to have small features. The goal is to keep the face in balance. Make sure the frame is in proportion and doesn’t overwhelm the features.

5 “Choose styles that are the opposite of your face shape,” says Allyson Thompson, optician at Precision Eye Care LLC.

Heart

Characteristics of a heart-shaped face include a wide forehead and high cheekbones with a narrow chin. With this type of face, your frame choice should minimize the width of the top of the face and add width below the eyeline to offset the narrow chin. The Vision Council of America suggests frames that are wider at the bottom, and ones with low temples will add balance.

According to the Vision Council of America, the heart-shaped face is a difficult face shape to fit because almost any pair of glasses will add emphasis where you won’t need it. Rimless, aviator, butterfly or low-triangle are good choices. Frames with rounded tops and squared bottoms will also work, as will frames in very light colors.

Thompson says a cat-eye style frame is a great choice for someone with a heart-shaped face. This style frame’s feminine features make it appealing to many women. “[The cat-eye frame] elongates the bone structure and helps make your chin not look so pointy looking,” she says.

“Pointier chins are common in heart-shaped faces.”

hins Pointier hc eartare common in shaped faces.

Oblong

— Allyson Thompson, optician at Precision Eye Care LLC

Characteristics of an oblong face include the face being longer than it is wide with a narrow chin and cheeks and a large forehead. Your frame choice should “break” the length of the face, making the face appear shorter and wider.

To make the face appear shorter and more balanced,

Which Shape Is Your Face

?

O V A L

Select frames that are as wide, or wider than, the broadest part of the face, and avoid low, swooping temples, which will unbalance the face.

H E A R T

With this type of face, your frame choice should minimize the width of the top of the face and add width below the eyeline to offset the narrow chin.

O B L O N G

R O U N D

S Q U A R E

This is an angular face shape, so choose a frame shape that’s more rounded or curved in order to add width to the face. To shorten the face, try round, deep or low-triangle shapes or frames with strong horizontal lines.

Characteristics of a round face include full cheekbones, few angles and width and length in similar proportions. Select frames that make the face appear longer and thinner.

Gently curved narrow styles will minimize squareness and lengthen the face. Also, the frames you pick should be wider than the widest part of the face, and they should be more horizontal than vertical.

try frames that have a top-to-bottom depth, decorative or contrasting temples that add width to the face, or a low bridge to shorten the nose.

This is an angular face shape, so choose a frame shape that’s more rounded or curved in order to add width to the face. To shorten the face, try round, deep or low-triangle shapes, or frames with strong horizontal lines.

Round

Characteristics of a round face include full cheekbones, few angles and width and length in similar proportions. If you have a round face, pick frames that make the face appear longer and thinner. The Vision Council of America offers the following tips to make your face appear longer and thinner: • Slightly angular frames will narrow a round face.

• Avoid excessively rounded or square styles, which will exaggerate facial roundness.

• High or mid-height temples help to create a longer profile.

• A clear bridge widens the eyes, and colored temples add width.

• The frames should be wider than they are deep.

• Metal frames with adjustable nosepads will keep lenses from resting on the fuller cheeks.

106 McHenry County Magazine • May 2013

3 The staff at Precision Eye Care LLC are (from left) Dr. Timothy Beyer, Dr. Allyson Thompson, Dr. Joseph Morfoot and Dr. Leigh Ann White.

Square Characteristics of a square-shaped face include a broad forehead and strong jaw line, as well as a wide chin and cheekbones. Select frames that make the face look longer. Gently curved narrow styles will minimize squareness and lengthen the face. Also, the frames you pick should be wider than the widest part of the face, and they should be more horizontal than vertical.

Select frames with weight on top, and try oval shapes with temples in the center.

Usually it’s better to avoid a frame that’s flat on the bottom, as this will mirror the face shape. Instead, look for a frame that has some curve or uplift to draw attention away from the jawline.

With a square-shaped face, Thompson says the trend leans toward more “invisible” frames.

“Rimless frames and frames that are lighter in color draw attention away from the [square-shaped face’s] harsher jawline and forehead,” she says. mc

5 Knowing your face shape is a great way to help you determine which frame styles will look best on you.

May 2013 • McHenry County Magazine

107

fashion & beauty

Now What?

Ways To Repurpose A Wedding Gown For many brides, choosing the dress is the most crucial part of the wedding planning process.

Should you buy off the rack, have one made or wear a vintage gown from Mom or Grandma?

Then, after the big day, most wedding gowns go into a closet never to be seen again.

Tips for doing it yourself

There are, however, many ways to keep your wedding gown in use for years to come. Julie Kinsey, a Chicagobased costumer, offers ideas and tips for repurposing that special garment.

Crafters with basic sewing skills can make all kinds of things with their wedding gowns, Kinsey says. The key is knowing what you need and what you have to work with.

Step 1: Assess the dress.

The skirt may have several yards of fabric, but it might not all be useable in one continuous piece, Kinsey says. Take the dress apart at the seams and measure the pieces to see how much workable fabric is actually there.

“It’s all about what fabric you have and how you cut it,” she says.

If you’re working with beads or other accents on the dress, pull them off and count them. If you’re short, you may be able to find supplemental materials at a fabric store.

“You always want to make sure that you have enough supplies,” Kinsey says.

Also, consider the integrity of the fabric.

Vintage gowns may have deteriorated. If the craft or garment you plan to make will need to be strong and last, a vintage gown may not be the best source.

Something old

Wearing a vintage gown passed down from a relative sounds wonderful, but if it’s the wrong size or style, that may not work.

However, you can still take elements from the dress and include them, Kinsey says.

Use the lace or beads on your own gown, or use the fabric to make a purse or bouquet wraps for the big day.

Something new

Use your gown to make a household craft like a quilt, a Christmas tree ornament or a Christmas tree skirt, Kinsey says.

Or, take the gown to a seamstress to make into a completely different garment like a cocktail dress.

When hiring a pro, Kinsey advises meeting face-to-face, looking at photos together and discussing what you can realistically do with the materials you have.

Step 2: Get a pattern.

Fabric stores have all kinds of patterns.

Look through them, and choose one that you can understand. How do all the pieces come together?

Something borrowed

A keepsake pillow or scrapbook cover from the big day is a lovely way to keep your gown in use.

Something blue ... or pink

First comes love, then comes marriage.

For the next phase, use your wedding dress fabric to make a christening gown or crib bedding.

Use your wedding dress fabric to make a christening gown or — Julie Kinsey, crib bedding. Chicago-based costumer

Step 3: Make a muslin mockup.

Muslin is an inexpensive fabric that seamstresses often use to make a simple version of a pattern to make sure the finished product looks the way it should.

It’s a good way to practice a new pattern before potentially making a mistake with your dress fabric, Kinsey says. mc — By GateHouse News Service

social life McHenry County Magazine’s Women’s Power Luncheon

5 Alice Byrne, fie ld region of Allstate senior vice president for the midw es Insurance Compa ny, was the keynot t speaker at McHen e ry County Magaz ine’s inaugural Wom Power Luncheon, en’s wh and develop their ich inspired local women to discove leadership skills.

Photos by Bethan r Detert y

s with Edward Jone a financial advisor 5 Nöel Thelander, r the luncheon, stands with Kelly fo and the moderator uct manager of Shaw Media. od pr he nic Buchanan, 3 Sandra Pierce, founder and president of Phoenix Woodworking in Woodstock, was a part of the event.

110 McHenry County Magazine • May 2013

inara-Schostok (left) 5 Appellate Judge Mary Sem an Community eric and Charie Zanck, CEO of Am the luncheon and at ts elis pan e wer Bank and Trust, have professional to s take provided insight on what it and personal leadership skills.

5 Carole Peters (right) , director of the School of Leadership and Busin ess at Judson Universi ty, and dozens of other wome n attended the event.

5 Connie Perez, owne r of Aesthetics in McHe nry and an event sponsor, shares some of her bo utique items. mc

May 2013 • McHenry County Magazine

111

out & about

May Events In McHenry County

ARTS

May 4 — Red Rose Ragtime Band, 8 p.m. at the Woodstock Opera House, 121 W Van Buren St., in Woodstock Formed in 1981 by percussionist Mike Schwimmer and pianist/arranger Joan Reynolds, the band specializes in ragtime for the seven-piece jazz band format, and their concerts present a potpourri of musical Americana, straight from the roots of our animated musical heritage. Tickets are $19. For tickets or more information, call 815-338-5300 or visit www.woodstockoperahouse.com.

May 5 — “Eleanor Roosevelt: Her Secret Journey,” 7 p.m. at the Woodstock Opera House, 121 W Van Buren St., in Woodstock Starring M*A*S*H actress Loretta Swit, “Eleanor: Her Secret Journey” is an engaging and educational theatrical event, following the years after World War I, as recalled by Mrs. Roosevelt looking back from 1945. Tickets are $45. For tickets or more information, call 815-338-5300 or visit www. woodstockoperahouse.com.

May 5 — Spring POPs Concert “Journey Across America,” 4 p.m. at the Crystal Lake Holiday Inn, 800 S. Route 31, in Crystal Lake

The “Pops” format is designed to bring a mixture of serious, seasonal and popular music to the public. All performances offer variety and typically include works by composers as diverse as Shostakovich, Grainger, Sousa and Ellington. Cost is $12 for adults, $10 for seniors, students and the military, and $7 for groups of 10 or more. For more information, call 815-679-2263 or visit www.clcb. org.

May 10 through 25 — “Hunter Gatherers,” 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays at the Memorial Hall Civic Theatre, 10308 Main St., in Richmond “Hunter Gatherers” is a darkly comic evening where the line between civilized and primal man is blurred, and where only the strong will survive long enough to enjoy the brownies for dessert.

Tickets are $10, with $2 of every ticket sold donated to Animal House Shelter in Huntley. This show is adult themed and should be viewed as a rated “R” production. For tickets or more information, call 815-575-9884 or visit www.theaterundreground. com.

May 18 — Delfeayo Marsalis, 8 p.m. at Raue Center for the Arts, 26 Williams St., in Crystal Lake Delfeayo Marsalis and his group of accomplished

musicians do a fresh take on the music of Duke Ellington. Tickets start at $36. For tickets or more information, call 815-356-9212 or visit www. rauecenter.org.

EVENTS

May 4 through 25 — Lost Valley Ventures: Family Exploration Programs, 2 to 3:30 p.m.

Saturdays at the Lost Valley Visitor Center in Glacial Park, at Route 31 and Harts Road, in Ringwood Are you looking for something the whole family can do for free on a Saturday afternoon? Come to Glacial Park for a fun family program. This month’s topic is Nesting Time and will include a nature lesson, game and activity. If time allows, there will be a short outdoor exploratory hike, so dress for the weather and walking. For more information, call 815-479-5779 or visit www.mccdistrict.org.

May 4 — Coppelia’s Dollhouse Tea and Fundraiser, 2 p.m. at The Foundry, at 700 W. Northwest Highway, in Barrington Bring your daughter, granddaughter, niece or friend with her favorite doll to enjoy high tea, storytelling and a mini-performance from Barrington Youth Dance Ensemble’s June 2013 production of “Coppelia.” Cost is $25 a person or $220 for a table of 10. For tickets or more information, call 847-382-6333.

May 4 — Barrington Kids Fest, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Citizens Park, 511 Lake Zurich Road, in Barrington The Barrington Kite Fly and the Family Nature Fest have combined into the Kids Fest! Learn how to build your own kite, then see how far you can fly it. Explore the wonders of nature and spend some quality family time outdoor. For more information, call 847-381-0687 or visit www. barringtonparkdistrict.org.

May 5 — Bob Blazier Run for the Arts, 8 a.m. at Raue Center for the Arts, 26 Williams St., in Crystal Lake A great community event celebrating the arts in our community will promote health and wellness, too! This is a 5K run/walk or 1-mile race. To register or for more information, call 815-356-9212 or visit www.rauecenter.org.

May 10 — Mother/Daughter Makeover Magic, 4:30 p.m. at the Community Center, at 255 Briargate Road, in Cary Discover how you can have healthy skin and a flattering makeup style in this dynamic mother/ daughter class. Through skin sensoring, receive a personalized formula for flawless skin. Learn what your best colors for clothing and makeup are, which will help moms look younger and more vibrant.

Cost is $15 a couple for residents and $23 for

112 McHenry County Magazine • May 2013

McHenryCountyMagazine.com

nonresidents; it will cost $5 for residents and $10 for residents for each additional child. To register or for more information, call 847-639-6100 or visit www.carypark.com.

May 11 — Sleepout for Shelter, 3 p.m. at Living Waters Lutheran Church, 1808 Miller Road, in Crystal Lake Event participants will spend the night outside in tents, boxes or cars to raise awareness and money for McHenry County PADS. The event will kick off with a one-hour rally that will include music, food, a “Shelter” box-building competition and more. Cost is $20 a person or $35 a family of five. For tickets or more information, call 815-759-7144 or visit www. pioneercenter.org.

May 11 — Bull Valley Garden Club Annual Plant Sale, 8 a.m. at the Old Courthouse on Woodstock Square, 101 N. Johnson, in Woodstock This plant sale will offer herbs and unusual lettuces; native wildflowers such as bluebells, wild ginger, jack-in-the-pulpit, columbine and celandine poppies; and unusual perennials and grasses from garden members’ lawns and woods. Floral bouquets will be available along with raffle tickets for a variety of items. For more information, call 815-354-3842.

May 12 — Mother’s Day Brunch, 10 a.m. at the Holiday Inn, 800 S. IL Route 31, in Crystal Lake Featuring a carving station, gourmet fixin’s and a chocolate fountain, this Mother’s Day brunch shouldn’t be missed! For reservations or more information, call 815-404-2019.

May 18 — Paddle in the Park, 10 a.m. at the Hollows Conservation Area, 3804 U.S. Highway 14, in Cary Take a canoe or kayak paddling clinic. Testpaddle canoes, kayaks or stand up paddle boards from local retailers to find the one that is right for you. There is a one-time $5 fee for all clinics and/or to test water crafts. For more information, call 815479-5779 or visit www.mccdistrict.org.

May 19 — Crystal Lake Then and Now, 2 p.m. at the Crystal Lake Public Library, 126 Paddock St., in Crystal Lake Diana Kenney, co-founder of the Crystal Lake Historical Society, will present a look at Crystal Lake through the years. For more information, call 815459-1687 or visit www.crystallakelibrary.org.

May 19 — Living History Open House, Noon to 4 p.m. at the Powers-Walker House in Glacial Park, 6201 Harts Road, in Ringwood This open house will feature historical artifacts and the local families that donated them. Volunteers in historical attire will be on hand to answer questions. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to tour inside the house, which is opened to the public only a few times a year. For more information, call 815-479-5779 or visit www. mccdistrict.org.

May 21 — Creative Cooking: Pasta, 4:45 p.m. at the Community Center, 255 Briargate Road, in Cary Experience the joy of cooking! Children will become more helpful and confident in the kitchen by learning measuring techniques, cleanliness and cleanup strategies. Keep all the goodies you make and the recipes to share. Cost is $12 for residents and $18 for nonresidents. To register or for more information, call 847-639-6100 or visit www. carypark.com.

May 24 — Hike When the Moon is Full, 8 p.m. at Marengo Ridge, 3100 N. Route 23, in Marengo The April full moon has been known by many names in various cultures throughout the world.

Most of these names refer to the bloom, awakening and new life in the natural world. Learn more about these and enjoy a hike under the full moon. Along the way you’ll share stories and lore of the season, the night and the moon. This program is for those 5 and older. It is free for residents; cost is $2 for nonresidents. To register or for more information, call 815-338-6223 or visit www.mccdistrict.org.

For additional calendar events and updated details, visit www.planitnorthwest.com. mc

May 15 — “Home of Taylormade” Golf Outing, 10 a.m. at the McHenry Country Club, 820 N. John St., in McHenry This outing will have a shotgun scramble format. Cost is $135, which will include golf, a cart, grilled lunch at the halfway house, beer, a family-style dinner and a keepsake gift from McHenry Country Club. To register or for more information, visit www.mchenrychamber.com.

May 16 – ACTS of Sweetness, 6 to 8 p.m. at Park Place Banquet Facility, 406 W. Woodstock St., in Crystal Lake If you are looking to indulge your sweet tooth this spring, Adult and Child Therapy Services has the perfect remedy. Join them at their 2nd annual ACTS of Sweetness dessert tasting, where approximately 20 different dessert vendors will be providing sweets in all forms, including chocolate, toffees, cupcakes and cookies. A free drink is included with the price of admission, and a cash bar will be available. There also will be live music. Tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the door. To purchase tickets or for more information, call 815-338-1707 or visit adultchildtherapy.org.

McHenryCountyMagazine.com

May 2013 • McHenry County Magazine

113

Find Us Here!

Algonquin

AG Family Chiropractic, 2535 Algonquin Rd. Algonquin Dental & Orthodontic, 1700 E. Algonquin Rd. Algonquin Pediatrics, 2537 Algonquin Rd. Algonquin Village Hall, 2200 Harnish Drive BMO Harris Bank, 225 S. Randall Rd. Dental Care of Algonquin, 285 Stonegate Rd. Diamond Physical Therapy, 1406 E. Algonquin Rd. Elite Laser & Skin Spa, 1482 Merchant Dr. Fox Valley Internal Medicine, 1465 Commerce Dr. Martini’s On Main, 1000 N. Main St. Morkes Chocolates, 2755 W. Algonquin Rd. Niequist Chiropractic Clinic, 1000 N Main St. Pediatric Medicine, 2575 W. Algonquin Rd. Port Edward Restaurant, 20 W. Algonquin Rd. Sherman Family Health Care, 600 Randall Rd. Snap Fitness, 1042 E Algonquin Rd. Tutoring Center, 128 S. Randall Rd. Vitamin Shoppe, 1496 S. Randall Rd.

CAry

Aesthetics, 650 E. Terra Cotta, Ste. 106 Anytime Fitness, 504 NW Hwy. #100 Aussie Pet Mobile, 7207 Horseshoe Ct. Buddha Bean Coffee Shop, 77 W. Main St. Cary Chamber of Commerce, 445 Park Ave. Cary-Grove Performing Arts, 21 Jandus Rd. Cary Nails, 712 NW Hwy. Cary Restaurant, 350 NW Hwy. Cary Train Station Coffee Station, 100 W. Main St Cary Travel Express, 9 Jandus Rd. Charter Fitness, 3106 Three Oaks Rd. Chris’ Coach House, 6414 Hilly City Nails, 664 NW Hwy. Classic Oak, 7606 NW Hwy. Dental Associates, 726 NW Hwy. Great Clips, 720 NW Hwy. Kitchens By Julie, 27-A Jandus Rd. Nail Story, 3106 Three Oaks Rd. OM Stretch Yoga, 271 Country Commons Dr., Ste. 1 Orchard Prime Meats & Wine Shop, 133 W. Main St. Osco Pharmacy, 692 NW Hwy. The Car Bath, 820 NW Hwy. Walgreens, 500 NW Hwy.

CrystAl lAke

114

1776 Restaurant, 397 W. Virginia Advocate Good Shepherd, 525 E. Congress Pkwy.

Advocate Home Health Service, 500 Coventry Lane Althoff Industries, 8001 S. IL Route 31 American Mattress, 7109 Pingree Amidei Nursing Home Care Services, 50 N. Walkup Baxter Credit Union, 415 W. Main St. Benedict’s La Strata, 40 N. Williams St. Blush Salon & Spa, 53 Brink St. BMO Harris Bank, 5545 NW Hwy. BMO Harris Bank, 1105 S. IL Route 31 Body Balancing Pilates, 81 N Williams St. Cardinal Liquor, 305 W. Virginia Caribou Coffee, 5899 NW Hwy. Centegra Health Bridge, 200 E. Congress Pkwy.

Centegra Health Systems, 500 Coventry Ln. Chiropractic & Acupuncture Center Ltd., 741 McHenry Ave., Ste. C Chiropractic Wellness Center, 435 Angela Ln. #19 Clip Joynt, 25 N. Williams St. Clothes Gallery, 51 N. Williams St. Comfort Inn, 595 Tracy Trail Conscious Cup, 5005 NW Hwy. Country Inn & Suites, 600 Tracy Trail Countryside Flower Shop, 5301 E. Terra Cotta Coventry Eye Care Associates, 457 Coventry Ln., Ste. 118 Crystal Lake Chamber of Commerce, 427 W. Virginia Crystal Lake Chrysler Jeep Dodge, 5404 S. IL Rte 31 Crystal Lake City Office, 100 W. Woodstock St. Crystal Lake Gymnastics and Tumbling, 387 Congress Pkwy.

Crystal Lake Holiday Inn, 800 S. IL Rte 31 Crystal Lake Library, 126 Paddock St. Crystal Lake Nutrition, 6224 NW Hwy. McHenry County Magazine May 2013 Crystal Lake Orthopedic, 750 E. Terra• Cotta

Crystal Lake Rib House, 5111 E. Terra Cotta Cute n Cuddle Dog Grooming, 42 N. Brink St. Dalzell Jewelers, 41 N. Williams St. Davis Speed Center, 975 Nimco Dr. #M Delight in Living, LTD, 411 E. Congress Pkwy.

Dental Works, 1145 S. IL Route 31 Distinction Salon & Spa, 88 Railroad St. Dobbe Marketing, 104 Minnie St. Dorion Gray, 2602 Route 176 Duke’s Alehouse & Kitchen, 110 N. Main St. Dynamic Health & Wellness, 7105 Virginia Rd. Elite Kids, 825 Munshaw Ln., Ste. B EmbroidMe, 6226 NW Hwy. Esser Automotive, 154 S. Virginia Excelerated Physical Therapy, 781 McHenry Ave., Ste. C Exclusively Napa, 35 N. Williams St. Faith In Action Of McHenry County, 7105 Virginia Rd., Ste. 25 Fast Eddie’s Car Wash, 485 Pingree Rd. The Flag Store, 69 N. Williams St. Fox Valley Internal Medicine, 650 Dakota Gavers Breast Center, 360 Terra Cotta Rd. Gulgrens Appliance, 424 W. Terra Cotta Ave. Heartland Blood Center, 6296 NW Hwy. Home State Bank, 5999 NW Hwy. Home State Bank, 40 Grant St. Howell’s Gifts and More, 57 N. Williams St. Infinity Day Spa, 435 Angela Ln. #8 International Hairways, 8 N. Williams St. Jameson’s Charhouse, 5016 NW Hwy. Josephs Marketplace, 180 W. Virginia St. La Bellissima, 10 N. Williams St. Lakeside Legacy/Dole Mansion, 401 Country Club Rd. Lasting Impression Salon, 40 W. Terra Cotta Ave. Lifetime Vision, 300 Memorial Dr. Lloyd’s Paint & Paper, 73 N. Williams St. London Club, 394 W. Virginia St. LuLu’s Wiggin’ Out, 63 N. Williams St. Marble Tech, 150 E. Dartmoor Mario Tricoci Salon, 625 Cog Circle, Suite A Martin Chevrolet, 5220 NW Hwy. Material Girl, 21 N. Williams St. McHenry County Association of Realtors, 405 E. Congress Pkwy.

McHenry County College, 8900 NW Hwy. McHenry County College Fitness Center, 8900 NW Hwy. McInerny & Wenzon Dental, 400 Memorial Medical Center Building, 750 E. Terra Cotta Mercy Medical Centers, 390 E. Congress Pkwy.

Miss Bossy Boots, 24 N. Williams St. Nail Envy, 435 Angela Lane #16 Nature’s Balance Acupuncture, 260 E. Congress Pkwy.

Nelson’s Jewelry, 1 Crystal Lake Plaza, #B2 New Balance, 1 Crystal Lake Plaza, #AW Olympic Cafe, 90 N. Williams St. On Target Range & Tactical Center, 560 Beechcraft Ln. Out of the Box, 71 N. Williams St. Pablo’s Mexican Restaurant, 230 W. Virginia St. Pauly Toyota, 1035 S. IL Route 31 Pediatric Dentistry, 260 E. Congress Pkwy.

Querhammer & Flag Funeral Home, 500 W. Terra Cotta Ave. R/K Autobody, 266 E. Prairie St. Raue Center for the Arts, 19 N. Williams St. Reflections Hair Studio, 62 N. Williams St. RE/Max, 7107 Pingree Rd. Richard Walker’s Pancake House, 5680 NW Hwy. Running Depot, 30 N. Williams St. Sage YMCA, 701 Manor Rd. Sears Vision, 5300-A NW Hwy. Snap Fitness, 540 E. Terra Cotta Sports Physical Therapy & Rehab Spec., 781 McHenry Ave. Strelcheck Chiropractic, 10 N. Virginia St. Summers Academy of Dance, 19 E. Berkshire Superior Health & Wellness, 6119 NW Hwy. Sweet Pea Cakes, 40 N. Williams St. Timm & Garfinkle, LLC, 407 E. Congress Pkwy.

Today’s Uniform, 67 W. Woodstock St. Trax Depot, 70 E. Woodstock St. Tri-County Pregnancy & Parenting Service, 610-1 Crystal Point Dr. Twice Told Tales, 61 N. Williams St.

Village of Lakewood, 2500 Lake Ave. Village Squire, 4818 NW Hwy. Vitamin Shoppe, 815 Cog Circle #4 Welcome Stitchery, 48 Brink St. Whispering Hills, 8401 S. IL Route 31 Wickham Interiors, 67 N. Williams St. Williams Street Salon, 79 N. Williams St. Women’s Physical Therapy Institute, 407-B E. Congress Pkwy.

Woman to Woman, 260 Congress Pkwy., Ste. C Working World, 14 N. Walkup Yours & Meyn, 37 N. Williams St.

Huntley

Armanetti’s Liquors, 9714 N. Route 47 BMO Harris Bank, 10604 N. Route 47 BMO Harris Bank, 12920 S. Route 47 Centegra Health Bridge, 10452 Algonquin Rd. F.Y.D.O. Land, 11221 Dundee Rd. Huntley Chamber of Commerce, 11704 Coral St. Huntley Gymnastics, 10991 Ruth Rd. Osco Pharmacy, 13200 Village Green Paradise Nutrition, 10436 N. Route 47 Seattle Sutton’s Healthy Eating, 11187 Dundee Rd. Walgreens Pharmacy, 12000 Princeton Dr. Walgreens Pharmacy, 9950 N. Route 47

lAke in tHe Hills

ABC School of Cosmetology, 9213 W. IL Rte 31 Advanced Eye Care, 45 W. Acorn Aikido Shimboku Dojo, 9225 Trinity Dr. Althetico Rehabilitation, 280 N. Randall Rd. Dominick’s Pharmacy, 10 N. Randall Rd. Flat Squirrel Scooters, 421 N. Randall Rd. GNC, 91 N. Randall Rd. Home State Bank, 50 W. Acorn Identite Salon, 9441 Ackman Rd. Intrigue Fitness, 9115 Trinity Dr. LITH/Algonquin Chamber of Commerce, 2114 W. Algonquin Rd. Mystic Nail Spa, 290 N. Randall Rd. Northwest Women’s Group, 47 W. Acorn Nova Care Rehabilitation, 411 N. Randall Rd., Unit F Player’s Choice Academy, 9210 Trinity Dr. Seattle Sutton’s Healthy Eating, 2120 W. Algonquin Rd. Trinity Academy of Gymnastics, 9162 Trinity Dr. Water Tower Family Dental, 2250 W. Algonquin Rd.

MCHenry

31 North Banquet & Conference Center, 217 N. Front St. Angelo’s Fresh Market, 4400 W. Elm St. Athletico, 1783 N. Richmond Rd. Bimbo’s, 1318 N. Riverside Dr. Bjorkman’s Ace Hardware, 4520 W. Crystal Lake Rd. BMO Harris Bank, 1712 N. Richmond Rd. BMO Harris Bank, 4101 W. Shamrock Ln. Centegra Health System, 4201 Medical Center Conroy Physical Therapy, 319 N. Front St. Dr. Ricardo Nabong, 4318 W. Crystal Lake Rd. EZ Tan, 4334 W. Elm St. Family Service, 4100 Veterans Pkwy.

Fashion Nails, 4326 W. Elm St. General Dentist, 2026 N. Richmond Rd. Great Clips, 1778 N. Richmond Rd. Hair Cuttery, 1721 N. Richmond Rd. Hairport, 4005 W. Kane Ave. Hampton Inn, 1555 S. IL Route 31 Heritage Woods, 4609 W. Crystal Lake Rd. Home State Bank, 4401 Prime Pkwy.

Home State Bank, 3500 Diamond Dr. Kathleen’s Creative Expressions, 665 Ridgeview Dr. Kunkel Healthcare, 5018 W. Elm St. Larch Tree Wellness, 1308 S. Crystal Lake Ave. MCC Shah Center, 410 W. Shamrock Ln. McHenry Chamber of Commerce, 1257 N. Green St. McHenry Country Club, 820 John St. McHenry Public Library, 809 Front St. McHenry Savings, 353 Bank Dr. Mercy Clinic, 633 Ridgeview Dr. Nature’s Cornucopia, 1717 N. Richmond Rd. Natural Therapy Wellness Ctr, 1307 Court St. NIMC, 5403 Bull Valley Rd.

Nova Care Rehabilitation, 370 Bank Dr. Osco Pharmacy, 4222 W. Elm St. Ortho Go Sports Physical Therapy, 4151 W. Orleans St. Plum Garden, 3917 Main St. RE/Max, 4005 W. Kane Ave. #H Salon Unique, 3731 W. Elm St. Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church Daycare, 404 N. Green St. Snap Fitness, 380 Bank Dr. Sunnyside Chrysler Dodge, 4810 W. Elm St. Superior Health and Wellness, 202 S. IL Rte 31 United Way of Greater McHenry County, 4508 Prime Pkwy.

Verlo, 3710 W. Elm St. Village Squire, 4512 W. Elm St. Walgreens Pharmacy, 3925 W. Elm St.

riCHMond

Anderson Candy, 10301 N. Main St. The Antique Store, 9908 N. Main St. Cubby Hole, 10713 N. Main St. Genesis Hair, 10302 N. Main St. Howl at the Moon, 5268 Broadway International House of Wine & Cheese, 11302 US Hwy. 12 Mercy Richmond Medical, 9715 Prairie Ridge Red Head, 10318 N. Main St. Richmond Chamber of Commerce, 10906 N. Main St. Snap Fitness, 10007 Mian St. Subway, 5600 Kenosha St., C Szechwan Palace, 5600 Kenosha St., A Tammy’s Pizza, 10004 N. Main St. Van’s Supermarket, 9914 N. Main St. Village Hall, 5600 Hunter Dr.

WoodstoCk

All Seasons Orchard, 14510 Route 176 Blue Ribbon Millwork, 1401 S. Eastwood Dr. BMO Harris Bank, 101 S. Benton St. BMO Harris Bank, 225 W. Jackson B-Tan, 561 S. Eastwood Dr. Country Financial, 118 E. Calhoun St. Elli Emmonds, DDS, 223 Main St. Family Health & Partnership, 13707 Kishwaukee Valley Rd. Great Clips, 11607 Catalpa Ln. Harley Davidson, 2050 S. Eastwood Dr. Headquarters Salon & Spa, 970 Martha Ln. Hearthstone Communities, 920 N. Seminary Ave. Home State Bank, 124 Johnson St. Lloyd’s Paint & Paper, 114 N. Benton Medical Offices, 3703 Doty Rd. Medical Offices, 3707 Doty Rd. Memorial Medical, 3701 Doty Rd. Memorial Medical, 527 South St. Mercy Urgent Care, 200 Lake Ave. Osco Pharmacy, 145 S. Eastwood Dr. Public House, 201 W. Main St. Pioneer Youth Service, 101 S Jefferson St. Reichert Chevrolet, 2145 S. Eastwood Dr. Shamrock Health & Fitness, 411 Leah Ln. Snap Fitness, 1400 N. Seminary Starbucks, 129 E. Van Buren, #1 Studio 21, 205 E. South St. Swiss Maid Bakery, 122 N. Benton St. Trax Depot, 90 Church St. Two Tails Market & Eatery, 2400 Lake Shore Dr., Ste. A Walgreens Pharmacy, 305 S. Eastwood Dr. Wells Fargo, 2424 Lake Shore Dr. Wisted’s Foods, 330 N. Eastwood Dr. Woodstock Chamber of Commerce, 136 Cass St. Woodstock Recreation Dept., 820 Lake Ave. Young Masters Martial Arts, 110 Johnson St.

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TERESA PONIO, Island Lake

artist showcase

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• “Sailing on Geneva Lake” and “Surveying The Landscape”

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“Sailing on Geneva Lake:” On a summer day, my husband and I went on a tour of Geneva Lake, a popular destination for many locals.

I caught this sailboat passing by with my camera as the captain of our vessel managed to navigate around him. “Surveying The Landscape:” These two birds were hanging out near a small lake in sunny Arizona. I was grocery shopping and noticed them across the parking lot.

They almost looked like statues. Both pieces are watercolors. mc To submit an entry to Artist Showcase, email artwork, title of piece, name and village of residence of artist, and a two- to three-sentence description of the piece to McHenryCountyMagazine@shawmedia.com, subject head “Local Artist Submission.”