MCM-02-01-13 by Shaw Media

The Relationship Edition

February 2013

Ultimate Wedding Plan Your

Meet Some Of McHenry Countyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wedding Service Providers

Plus

3Celebrate!

Blackstone Golf Club Creates Wedding Bliss For Brides pg 42

LOWFAT

Chocolate Dessert Recipe For Two pg 61

DATING

Dare To Date Someone You Meet Online? pg 24

415 S. Main St. Crystal Lake, IL 60014

Mondays-Fridays: 9:30am - 8:00pm â&#x20AC;˘ Saturdays: 9:30am - 5:00pm Sundays: 10:00am - 3:00pm

INSIDE

‘‘

The Relationship Edition

Small art objects ... can dress up plain bookends. pg 10

Sandra Pierce, president of Phoenix Woodworking Corporation in Woodstock

Home & Lifestyle 3

17 19 20

Home Design — Home Library: What considerations should you make when planning a home library? Chris Kubacki, owner of Cherish Wood Industries in Crystal Lake; Lora Totton Schwarz, head of technical services at the Woodstock Public Library; and Sandra Pierce, president of Phoenix Woodworking Corporation in Woodstock, share tips for creating the ideal space for your books. A Little Bird Told Me: The guys at Cardinal Wine and Spirits in Crystal Lake share their list of wines that pair well with dessert, bubble baths and kisses. Put A Fork In It: David Faccone of Crystal Lake Rib House sings praises for a newer, family-owned Italian restaurant in Woodstock. Prepare to visit Calogero’s and be amazed. Artist Profile: Jim Pierce of Crystal Lake creates fantasy portraits by using Photoshop to manipulate his photographs. The owner of Downtown Pro Photo in Crystal Lake also travels the country teaching digital photography. Before they were Mr. and Mrs. Voss, Cheryl and Steve met online. Today, the McHenry couple is happily married, and experts say that one in every six marriages now start on the Web.

Family 27

28 30

Write This Down: Fellas, listen up — here’s how Michelle

Stien, a stay-at-home mother of two, sees the relationship between men and women: a woman’s level of patience is like a bank account, and each time a man does something to annoy a lady, she deducts money from his account. Find out how to stay in the black! How can parents protect their children from online threats? Local and state experts share ways to monitor Internet use of youngsters. Success Lives Next Door: Gene and Marie Marino of Huntley have been married 63 years, and they share the secrets that helped them raise their six children, who have blessed them with 13 grandchildren and nine greatgrandchildren.

Special Wedding Section 36

If you’re planning your wedding and looking for details that will mark your big day as something beyond special, you don’t have to look outside of McHenry County. Meet our cover model, Janice Stretch of JaniceStyle in McHenry, who creates beautiful hair fascinators for brides; The Constant Scribe, a calligrapher in Crystal Lake; a floral expert from Chapel Hill Florist in McHenry; and ladies from Kathryn’s Bridal and Dress Shop in McHenry who talk about the latest in invitations and dresses. Cover Inset: Blackstone Golf Club in Marengo offers a beautiful setting for weddings, both inside the clubhouse with its mahogany woodwork and masonry and outside on the veranda, which faces the 18th hole. What type of wedding cake will reflect your personal style best — sheet cake, cupcake towers or something else? Learn about five popular wedding cake options and see what strikes your fancy.

Health 54

61 62

Weight-loss Series: Part two of this three-part series

continues to follow Carolyn Bathauer of McHenry and Howard Eady of Lake in the Hills as they learn to overcome struggles on their journey toward a healthier lifestyle. For prospective mothers who can’t get pregnant on their own — like Kara Ungaro of Woodstock and Kim Rosen of Cary — fertility clinics may provide the answers. Learn more from doctors at Advanced Fertility Center of Chicago in Crystal Lake and Fertility Centers of Illinois in Crystal Lake. Lowfat Recipe Of The Month: Kristina Kubik, 25, of Crystal Lake, shares a delightful recipe for chocolate raspberry heart cakes — just in time for Valentine’s Day. Vital Signs: Dr. Daniel Strelcheck of Strelcheck Chiropractic Clinic in Crystal Lake explains the symptoms, diagnoses and treatments of fibromyalgia.

Fashion & Beauty 64

What’s new in the arena of fashion rings and bracelets? Representatives from Charming Charlie and Discovery share the latest trends in accessories.

Out & About 71

Artist Showcase: McHenry artist Lori Indovina-Valus shares two of her watercolors.

“Before I saw Dr. Rivard at Illinois Vein Specialists, it was tough doing my job.”

Dr. Stephen P. Rivard (L.) and Mr. Craig Frey (R.), fronting the famous 18th “Waterwheel” hole at Makray Memorial Golf Club

�� F�� -�� popular Oak Terrace Grille at Barrington’s own Makray Memorial Golf Club. His demanding job as Number 2 at a top-rated restaurant requires hours on his feet—every day. Even though Craig is a young man, his achy legs during a busy shift made a tough job nearly impossible. He needed relief and became a patient of Illinois Vein Specialists in 2010. Dr. Stephen Rivard, medical director of IVS, recalls: “Craig’s vein disease, like that of many others in our practice, started in his late teens and, by the time I saw him, the disease was quite advanced.”

Myth 3: The treatment of varicose veins is just a cosmetic fix and unless the leg hurts, there really is no reason other than vanity to seek repair. The myth that varicose veins don’t need to be treated unless they are painful is not only incorrect it is often dangerous to the patient’s health. Varicose veins are a sign of an important vascular insufficiency and compromise. Like arterial hypertension and dental cavities, the insidious nature of chronic venous hypertension is progressively destructive and should be treated before pain and other symptoms occur.

Myth 6: Vein disease is a sign of aging and only occurs in older adults. Increasing age is a slight risk factor for varicose veins because of wear and tear on the vein valves that regulate blood flow. Patients certainly perceive it as more common as they age because the disease has had longer to make its symptoms known and is more advanced and has done more damage.

Dr. Rivard adds: “Craig is a good example of one of the widely-held myths about vein disease— that it primarily is a concern of older adults. This is just not the case. Take a look below at six common myths about vein disease.” SIX MYTHS ABOUT VEIN DISEASE Myth 1: Once varicose or spider veins have been repaired, they will always re-occur. The recurrence of varicose veins after treatment is a myth born from the prior inadequate care. Treatment methods in the past, while done with best intentions, actually caused recurrence of varicose veins. With the onset of Board Certification, methods of treatment have become more organized, safer and more efficient. Now recurrence rates should be below 5%. Myth 2: It is best to wait until a woman has had all her pregnancies to deal with varicose and spider veins. While there is some historical experience underlying this myth, it was also born out of the fact that prior treatments for varicose veins were often inadequate and frequently led to recurrence. New treatments, however, are safe, virtually painless and, more than 98% of the time, lead to permanent resolution of varicose veins at their source. The new paradigm ought to be that obstetric physicians send their patients for venous insufficiency evaluation prior to their getting pregnant.

Myth 5: So-called “vein stripping” is the best way to treat varicose veins. Outdated techniques such as vein stripping to treat varicose veins are sadly still being used by some even today. This is a two-hour inpatient surgical procedure requiring anesthesia. Even more troubling, vein stripping works less than half the time, is painful, fraught with complications and often makes matters worse. Ultrasound guided laser therapy by a Board Certified Phlebologist is over 98% effective for virtually painlessly and permanently treating varicose veins with little if any side effects in an outpatient setting.

However, the primary cause of vein disease, accounting for about 80% of cases, is hereditary. It is not at all unusual to find varicose veins in young adults and even teenagers. Craig Frey—before and after photos for treatment of varicose veins

Myth 4: Because the treatment of varicose veins is cosmetic, insurance does not cover the expense. While the treatment of spider veins is often considered a vanity or cosmetic issue and is not covered by insurance, the treatment of varicose veins is not a cosmetic issue and is almost always covered by insurance. In our experience, the initial diagnostic evaluation for venous disease is covered by insurance more than 90% of the time as well. The insurance coverage is determined by a qualified phlebologist using ultrasonography testing the size and function/dysfunction of the veins in the legs.

Illinois Vein Specialists opened in 2009 and has a staff of a dozen—physicians, RNs, medical technicians, ultrasound specialists and administrative personnel. Since then they have helped well over a thousand Barrington-area patients. “One of the things I like the best about specializing in vein disease is the opportunity to meet wonderful people like Craig Frey; being able to help them is the reason I get up in the morning.” To find out how Illinois Vein Specialists, A Center of Excellence in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Vein Disease™, might be able to help you: call for an appointment at 847-277-9100, stop by our offices at 22285 Pepper Rd, (suite 105), Lake Barrington and look at our “brag book” or visit us on-line at www.Illinoisveinspecialists.com. © 2012 Illinois Vein Specialists. All rights reserved.

from the editor

Love & Bliss

y parents aren’t overly affectionate, and I don’t think they’d kill me for saying so (but if you don’t hear from me next month, you’ll know I was wrong). They’re independent people and, while they love each other very much, they just don’t show it outwardly that often by way of a smooch or pinch on the butt. I, on the other hand, am a very outwardly loving person — and, wouldn’t you know? — my husband is the same way. We spend many of our evenings cuddled under a blanket on the couch, we always hold hands when we’re out and about and Friday evenings, whenever possible, are meant for dancing in each other’s arms. That might sound overly romantic and cheesy, and I’m constantly reminded by my coworkers that I’ve only been married a year and a half — barely past the honeymoon stage. They fully expect things to change in a few years. I don’t. I see us following the path of my in-laws — who still hold hands when they walk down the street. To my father’s credit, however, he always brings my mother a card and flower on Valentine’s Day, and he always calls before he leaves the office to let her know he’s on his way home. After 33 years of marriage — which has equated to 33 years of my mother running errands for my father — I figure they know they are loved. And even if I don’t see them hug each other very often, my brother and I get plenty of hugs from both of them whenever we visit. My point is that love is shown, cultivated

and celebrated in many different ways. And this month, we celebrate the relationships we have and share with you some of the lessons McHenry County residents have learned in their own lives. Cheryl and Steve Voss of McHenry first met online through a dating website, and today, they’re happily married. While I was surprised to learn that one in six marriages now have roots from a website, according to Match.com, I’m sure it’s no surprise to the Voss couple (page 24). Gene and Marie Marino of Huntley didn’t meet online, but that’s because the Internet hadn’t been invented when they were young. The proud patriarch and matriarch of six children, 13 grandchildren and nine greatgrandchildren have been married 63 years, and they know a thing or two about getting along (page 30). For those who are just beginning to plan for a life of love with their significant other, our special wedding section offers ideas of ways to create lasting memories with local merchants and professionals (page 35). Many of our featured wedding experts offer custom products that won’t be duplicated anywhere else, and they’re located right here in McHenry County. Plus, we learn a bit about fertility clinics and how they can help couples like Kara and Derric Ungaro of Woodstock and Kim Rosen of Cary, who were able to start their own little family (page 58). And make sure to check out the recipe for chocolate raspberry heart cakes, compliments of Kristina Kubick, 25, of Crystal Lake, who created the dish specifically to be shared with others (page 61). I hope you appreciate all of the relationships you have in your life, and I wish you a Happy Valentine’s Day! Amore, — Stephanie N. Grimoldby Editor

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 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, Amanda Marrazzo, Elizabeth Harmon, Colleen Leonard, Lauren Lynch Photographers Melissa Emory, Heather Nelson, McHenry County Magazine is available by subscription for $24 a year. If you would like each month’s edition mailed to your home, send payment information and address to McHenry County Magazine, 7717 S. Route 31, Crystal Lake, IL 60014 or via email at subscriptions@shawmedia.com.

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SNEAK PEEK

On The Cover

In our March “Careers” issue, don’t miss:

Pictured on the cover is Janice Stretch, 54, owner of JaniceStyle, who creates custom hair fascinators for brides. Stretch is pictured inside Kathryn’s Bridal and Dress Shop in McHenry wearing the wedding gown she wore at her own wedding Sept. 18, 2009, and a custom hair fascinator she designed. For our complete wedding section guide, see page 35.

A look at unconventional jobs Stories behind second chance careers A lowfat recipe of the month

Elaborate four-season rooms

Photo by Melissa Emory

Easter outfits for the family

Hair and makeup by Elizabeth and Mickey, respectively, of Mario Tricoci Hair Salons and Day Spas in Crystal Lake

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home & lifestyle / HOMEdesign

6 The members of the Kubacki family of Crystal Lake are avid readers, so Chris Kubacki built them a library. They use the Dewey Decimal System to keep their more than 2,000 books organized. Photo by Heather Nelson

BOOK SMART Creating A Comfortable Home Library By Elizabeth Harmon

avid reader, Chris Kubacki of Crystal Lake would rather flip through pages of a book than flip through

channels on TV. His family is the same way. While Kubacki prefers historical nonfiction, his son loves science fiction. His wife reads a variety of books, including fiction and nonfiction. But with a collection of more than 2,000 volumes, locating a favorite wasn’t easy. So, Kubacki, owner of Cherish Wood Industries in Crystal Lake, put his carpentry skills to work and created a library in his home. “It’s a popular place,” Kubacki says. Think a home library is only for grand estates, straight out of a Jane Austen novel? Think again. Creating a home library is a great way to tame clutter, get organized and encourage your family to read.

How to get started First, find a space. An empty room with large blank walls is an obvious choice, but smaller spaces can work equally well. A family room, home office, guest room or living room are all excellent options. You may also want to consider smaller collections of books located in the rooms where they’re used.

10 McHenry County Magazine • February 2013

“In our house, my husband keeps the maintenance books in the basement because that’s where most maintenance happens,” says Lora Totton Schwarz, head of technical services at the Woodstock Public Library. “It makes sense to keep your cookbooks in the kitchen. If you read in bed, you probably want to keep some books there. A guest room is also a good place to keep books. More attractive books, such as leather bound editions of classic literature that double as décor, might be in the living room.” If there’s no room for a conventional bookcase, consider wall-mounted shelves or custom-built units. “If you have a problem wall, such as a 12-foot wall broken up by a 5-foot window, that’s a perfect spot for a bookcase, and you can even build a window seat with storage and shelves,” says Sandra Pierce, president of Phoenix Woodworking Corporation in Woodstock. The wall surrounding a built in fireplace is also a great option.

Sort your books

With your space in mind, consider what to store. Totton Schwarz suggests sorting books into three categories: “must keep,” “hated it” and “maybe.” While “must keep” and “hated

it” are self-explanatory, “maybe” books might include favorite picture books your kids have outgrown, that beloved collection of paperback mysteries or romances that are too tattered to display, or rarely-read volumes like Grandpa’s German-language Bible. Books you’re no longer using or those in poor condition can be kept in a discrete place. If your bookcase has a cabinet with 4 The library in the Kubacki household is a popular place. Photo by Heather Nelson

Remodeling or Refacing your kitchen is our Specialty! ■ ■ ■ ■ ■ ■

5 Chris Kubacki used his carpentry skills to build a library in his Crystal Lake home. Photo by Heather Nelson

doors, consider using it for the picture books. Another option, especially good for paperbacks, are wicker baskets that fit on shelves. “They’re a good place to store well-worn books that don’t fit into a formal room,” Pierce says. Consider a glass shelf and special lighting for unique items like an antique family Bible, souvenirs from travel — even if they’re not books — framed medals or a treasured piece of kid-made art. Small art objects also can dress up plain bookends. Books you don’t want to keep can be sold to a used bookstore or donated to thrift stores, nursing homes, doctors’ offices or your public library’s used book sale. “Be sure to call and ask before you donate,” Totton Schwarz says.

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piece of wood that’s joined into the shelves. “It should look like an ‘L,’” he says. Walnut, oak, maple and cherry are good options if you prefer stained and finished shelves. But if you plan to paint them, use poplar, Kubacki says. For glass shelves, always use tempered glass. Kubacki recommends a 10-inch width for most shelves, but says to add space for larger books. “Our library has two 14-inch shelves because everyone has a few oversized books,” he says. He also recommends adding an electrical outlet to the base of the shelves, especially if they’ll cover an existing wall outlet, and glass doors. “Books collect dust,” he says. And don’t forget a comfortable spot to read. “We have a love seat with lights on both sides,” Kubacki says. Because of the size of their book collection, the Kubackis organize using the Dewey Decimal System, but many home libraries can be organized by subject, with authors arranged alphabetically within each category. “We arrange by subject for nonfiction, and all fiction goes together, with some organized by genre. We use mystery, science fiction and western and the rest general fiction,” says Totton Schwarz, adding that other libraries also have separate designations for romance and horror. Anthologies with more than one author, or books penned anonymously, can be placed at the beginning of their appropriate category. “Some people arrange their books by color,” Totton Schwarz says. “We often have people come into the library asking for ‘that blue book.’ If that’s the way you remember them, that’s fine.” mc

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February 2013 • McHenry County Magazine

H OME resource guide McHenry County Magazine

Fixing up your home this year? Find contacts for top home professionals in interior design, kitchen design, construction, and many other home-related fields. Whether you are a new or established home owner, you will find places and products of interest in this monthly guide! Interior Design WHITE OAK INTERIORS, Algonquin, 847-854-8892, www.whiteoakinteriors.com From inspiration to installation you can have your space “Carmenized.” White Oak Interiors has the training and expertise to plan, schedule, execute and manage your project from start to ﬁnish. Creating attractive, affordable spaces designed speciﬁcally to meet your needs.

INTERIOR INSPIRATION, Algonquin, 847-854-2966, www.interiorinspiration.com For a home or workplace that is beautiful, functional and inspired, call Randi Goodman, IFDA, “designer extraordinaire.” Now is a great time to spruce up your space. Randi makes the best use of furnishings and accessories you already have. She can suggest additional pieces, or start from scratch. The choice is yours! Custom or ready made, she can do it all! Call today for a personal consultation.

Flooring EXCEED FLOORING 5186 Northwest Highway, Crystal Lake, 815-459-3113, www.exceedﬂooring.com

Kitchen Design KITCHENS BY JULIE, INC., 27-A Janus Rd., Cary, 847-516-2226, www.kitchensbyjulie.com Located in Downtown Cary, Kitchens by Julie is a family owned and operated organization that has extensive experience in all aspects of remodeling and construction. “Every successful project is a unique reﬂection of personal tastes, functions, lifestyle, budget and dreams,” says principal designer, Julie Loehner, CKD who operates Kitchens by Julie with her husband and project manager, Mark Loehner. Our goal is to create a wonderful experience designing and building your dream from conception to completion.

Marble & Granite Wholesale Carpets MARBLE & GRANITE TECH, INC., 817 W. Northwest Hwy., Barrington, 847-382-1142, www.mgtstone.com Marble & Granite Tech remains an affordable stone fabricator while making all of our projects precise and unique by offering the most advanced digital vein matching in the industry. Our quality workmanship has expanded to include tile, cabinetry, and complete home remodeling, all under one roof! Stop by to see our new product lines and expanded showroom!

Exceed Flooring’s 40,000-sq.ft. showroom provides upscale materials for flooring and surface designs. Many unique options imported from around the world are available in tile, stone, wood, carpet, cork, and bamboo. Exceed also offers a spectrum of complementary accessories—granite and quartz countertop slabs, eco fireplaces, plumbing fixtures, and custom cabinetry. Professional designers are on staff to assist. Dare to be Exceedingly different!

WHOLESALE CARPETS, 502 Northwest Hwy, Fox River Grove, 847-639-1855, www.wholesalecarpets.net We have everything from carpet to hardwood, ceramic, cork ﬂooring and area rugs. Our installers work exclusively for us! They’re hand picked for their experience and professional looking installations. Stop by and see for yourself, we’re bigger than we look.

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To have your business included in this guide, contact Kelly Buchanan at 815-526-4445.

Remodeling & Repair HEARTH & HOME CONSTRUCTION, Orchard Lane, McHenry, 815-403-4008 www.HearthandHomeConstruction.com Hearth & Home Construction is committed to lasting quality. For Daniel Wagler, owner of Hearth and Home Construction of McHenry, the best part of his job is seeing the reaction of his customers. “The thing I love most about construction is seeing the end result and how excited people get.” Daniel has worked in construction for 26 years and Daniel is a journeyman stone and brick mason. His current company for 14 years, Hearth and Home Construction, serves light commercial and residential customers, and specializes in general contracting, full service remodeling and home maintenance contracting. With remodeling projects in much greater demand than new construction, Hearth and Home has expanded into interior and exterior maintenance schedules, energy compliant upgrades, as well as home beautification projects. Radiant floor heating, LED and flourescent lighting upgrades, Spa bathrooms and working kitchen designs are among the favorites!

MICHAEL SCHUCH CONSTRUCTION, Woodstock, 815-690-0248 www.McHenryCountyBasements.com Michael Schuch and Sons Construction provides the highest levels of expertise and attention to detail to ensure your home repair or remodeling project is done right and on time, every time. A family-owned business with ﬁve generations of master craftsman. Call today for a free project evaluation. 815-690-0248.

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Of Love & Wine R home & lifestyle

omance and wine work in perfect harmony, always complementing each other. How many times are romantic moods highlighted with a delicious bottle of vino? As we prepare for that special evening when you tell your sweetie just how much he or she means to you, the real question is, what wine goes best with romance? Well, we think any will do, but here is our list of wines that should pair well with dessert, bubble baths and kisses.

Serena — Sweet Red Wine $12 This light, slightly sweet red arouses the palate with a gentle effervescence. It’s perfect with a little chocolate. Try with some vodka for a Seren-tini. Noval — Black Porto $20 We can’t think of a better wine to end a dinner with than a nice port to sip. Sensuous blackberry, caramel and chocolate notes of this particular port coat the mouth before surrendering to a long, warm finish. Domaine Pichot — Vouvray $20 If you’re not the biggest fan of sweet wines but still need a touch of sweetness, this is the answer. Domaine Pichot is more refreshingly sweet than sugary sweet, as wonderful flavors of apple, peach and candied apricot blossom in the mouth. It pairs deliciously with salads, lobster and cheesecake. Lucien Albrecht — Brut Rose $20

Does anything say “I love you” like bubbles? OK, maybe diamonds say it a little better, but when those bubbles are pink, the race gets a little closer. A glorious mouthful of creamy, tropical fruit is highlighted with a delicate, dry finish kissed with fresh strawberries. We got a scare earlier this year with reports that this winery was not going to be importing to the U.S. any more. Thankfully, after a short disappearance, this beauty is back in stock. Poet’s Leap — Riesling $23 This Washington state riesling was crafted by one of Germany’s most acclaimed winemakers,

A Little Bird Told Me

with Cardinal Wine & Spirits

• Bruce Garfield, president of Cardinal Wine & Spirits in Crystal Lake; Jeremy Brock, 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.

Armin Diel. It’s all about showcasing the fruit, not the sugar levels. Crushed peaches, ripe nectarine and candied lime zest will seduce the palate, leading the way for a long, refreshing finish. Sushi, shellfish, spicy Asian dishes – yum!

Saldo – Zinfandel $32 This might be the most erotic wine on our list. It’s big, rich and jammy in the mouth with black cherry, cassis, black licorice and vanilla bean, and it finishes with a gentle caress of toasty oak and cocoa powder. From the

same winemaker that created the cult wine “Prisoner,” we find this one more entertaining and memorable … and for a little less cash. Pair it with red meat, ribs or chocolate, or by itself as the meal. mc

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home & lifestyle

That’s Amore! Calogero’s: pronounced cal-OH-ger-ohs

recently had several friends tell me about a relatively new Italian restaurant in Woodstock. Each time I asked them the name of the place, they couldn’t pronounce it and wound up trying to spell it. They all had good things to say, but they couldn’t pronounce the name. I hadn’t seen or heard of it, even though I’m on the square in Woodstock fairly often. Turns out it’s just off the square on Washington Street, and so I stopped by with my family. If you’re in a doctor’s office right now or any place where you don’t have time to read this whole review, just remember this — GET THERE! This place may not have been discovered yet, but trust me, when it does, you will not be able to get in. I am a huge fan of independent, family-owned and operated restaurants that are great, and this is my new — and it will be yours — favorite goto place for Italian. Calogero’s is owned by Don Cullotta, and he has his sister, Chef Jo-Claire, running the place. Depending on the night, you will see multiple family members on the floor helping out. Man, I just love family-run restaurants, but let’s start at the beginning. The parking lot in front is goofy and it fills up quickly because of its shape, but they have a huge parking lot across the street so don’t think there’s a terrible wait inside when you see the front lot packed. When you enter the restaurant, you are greeted by a transparent screen that lets you look right into the kitchen. As you are gazing in, family members greet you as they are working. It’s as if you were entering their house through the back door into the kitchen, as many close friends do — especially Italians. It is the most unique entrance I think I’ve ever seen. If I had heard “Ahh, buon giorno paisano,” I would have thought I was back in the old neighborhood. I’m telling you, I love this place. I wish I could have gone right in the kitchen to hang out or, better yet, help out. Then I would have really felt like family; that would have been awesome. I‘m going to ask Jo-Claire

on my next visit if I can. Don’t be surprised if you see me back there. Did I mention I love this place? OK, on to the food. We ordered three appetizers. The morsi di pesci is breaded chunks of Alaskan pollack fried and served with cocktail sauce. I ordered it almost as a test because it sounded so simple and really not that inviting. Well, it was great. So great that I got maybe two pieces as my three sons tore into it. My wife picked the spiedini, which is thin beef slices rolled with tomato and cheese. BaBam! It was killer, served over delicious angel hair pasta. Again, I had to fight for position before the boys finished it all. Have you ever had an appetizer that was so good, you wished you could have it for dinner? Well, here you can. I don’t know how I missed it, but they have a dinner-size version of it that I will be having on my next visit. I love eggplant, so for the third app, I ordered the melanzana — sliced eggplant with fresh sliced mozzarella and tomato — off the salad menu. It was fabulous even with out-of-season tomatoes. I hope Jo-Claire moves this to the appetizer menu because with the fresh baked bread they serve (we were on our third loaf), this is a great app to share with the whole table. We had successfully taken the hunger edge off by now, so after a few more Peronis and another glass of wine for Jan — did I mention their entire wine list by the glass is half price on Tuesdays? — we were ready for dinner salads and soup. Here, they make the minestrone with garbanzo beans, which gives it a little snap that my son Daniel and I loved. A bowl of the soup and the fresh bread alone would make a great dinner. David and Jan had the salads and raved about the dressing. We just kept getting happier and happier … and then our entrees arrived. The chicken Marsala was delicious. My wife said it was the best she ever had! My eggplant parmesan was equally as great, served over pasta and just plain awesome — I mean home run good. On the side of each entrée was some delicately-sliced seasoned zucchini.

Put A Fork In It

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.

Sometimes restaurants do an item like that to fill the plate and make it look pretty. It’s called a filler. Well, guess what? Even that was fabulous. Yes, fabulous. I did mention I love this place, right? David and Daniel both ordered alfredo-style pasta that was authentically rich and creamy, and Donny had spaghetti with marinara that I helped him finish. Delicious. I know what you’re thinking by now. Either I own this place, or the Peronis had gotten to me. Neither one is true. You need to come here and find out for yourself. My objective now is to pack this place. I want this family operation to flourish and be a Woodstock staple forever. To that end, for the next month, whenever you dine in and order two dinner entrees, just tell your server that Dave sent you, and they will give you a free melanzana salad as an appetizer. Make sure you order the spiedini or a pizza for the table to start, but the melanzana’s on me. Now go gather your friends and familia, park in the goofy lot, wave to the family in the kitchen as you enter, order multiple apps and get ready to have a bada bing! fabulous night out. Call Jo-Claire or Don at 815-3085610 for directions to 135 Washington St. in Woodstock or to ask about their all-you-can-eat pasta bar. Fa get about it. Ciao bella paisanos! mc

home & lifestyle / ARTIST profile

“Within You, Without You”

The Dreamcatcher

hen Jim Pierce takes on a photo project, he approaches it with infinite emotion, mood, fantasy and imagination. Pierce, owner of Downtown Pro Photo at 150 Virginia Road in Crystal Lake, is a digital artist who began playing with computers to develop his unique art form in the late 1980s — long before they were a common way to transform art or a technology that anyone even understood yet, he says.

“I used to have to explain to everyone what Photoshop is, and now everybody uses it,” says Pierce, 45, of Crystal Lake. “I would tell people this is where imaging is going.”

20 McHenry County Magazine • February 2013

I By AMANDA MARRAZZO I

What he does

Pierce begins each project with an idea and discusses the desired outcome with a model — be it an actress or a client commissioning his time. He photographs the subject, who might be one of his theater friends that he has asked to come in to help fulfill an idea stirring in his creative mind, or a client with a unique photo request. Sometimes with music playing to help set the mood, he encourages his subjects to use their body and face to create the desired emotion. He shoots many photos until he lands on just the right emotion. A photo shoot can last one to two hours depending on how comfortable the model is. “It is easier to build up “Cloud” everything around an emotion than it is to fake an emotion,” Pierce says of his artistic process. Once he has captured the right emotion on film, he layers the photo through digital manipulation. He adds in elements of color,

texture and design. After several hours, he ends up with a fantasy or dreamlike scene that tells a story. One piece, for example, was created by request for a woman who wanted her body transformed into a serene, free-flying bird. In another, a fantasy image depicted a woman as a fantastical sorcerer, and in another, an eerie pandora’s box image shows a woman opening a box and ghostlike images are floating upward. “Dreamcatcher” is one of Pierce’s most prized portraits and one that has earned him a merit award, one of many he has received from Professional Photographers of America. The idea was inspired by a dreamcatcher he bought in the Southwest. In the portrait, an actress friend of his is shown with a serene expression, floating through the night sky toward the light with the dreamcatcher in the darkness behind her “catching” images of demons and monsters.

The process Jennifer M.K., 38, of Woodstock, one of two models featured in a fantasy portrait called “Banchee” and the subject of a moving, soulful portrait depicting a woman between the light and depression, says working with Pierce is “fun and relaxed.” “When he comes up with

an idea, he asks me to help with the shoot to fulfill a specific idea,” she says. “I’m an actor, [so] I ask, ‘What is the mood you are looking for? What are you trying to convey?’ We approach it more from a character type perspective.” She says the portraits Pierce creates are about telling a story and using the face and body to help Pierce share that story. When working on a portrait Pierce says he prefers not to get stuck on an idea, but rather to let the emotion of the project take it where it is meant to be. He never forces something to work, but instead lets the creative process flow through him. If that means ending up with a portrait completely opposite from what he had in mind when he started, so be it, he says.

Additional work Pierce also shoots classic 1940s-inspired boudoir portraits, popular today with military girlfriends and wives who send the portraits to their men away in the Armed Services. He also shoots typical photo assignments, including head shots, engagement and wedding photos and high school graduation portraits. He travels, too, teaching digital photography, and he hosts workshops and private lessons in his studio. “The arts have always been a huge part of my life,” says Pierce, who also is involved in community theater and plays saxophone in the Crystal Lake Community Band. “I’ve loved the arts ever since I was a little kid.” He says it was a movie he saw early on that likely set him on his creative “Phoenix” digital arts path. “When I first saw ‘Star Wars,’ I said, ‘I gotta learn how to do this,’” he recalls. “Things were flying and there were weird creatures ... . Unfortunately, I can’t draw a stick figure to save my life.” After high school, Pierce went on to earn a degree in photography at Southern Illinois University, before the digital world of art took off.

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“Ascension” So, as time went on and technology evolved, he learned how to recreate his — and other people’s — dreams for all to see. He says the technology available to create such mystical, story-telling pieces today is “mind blowing.” “Technology finally caught up with my imagination.” mc

Downtown Pro Photo Winter Workshops for February

Classes will take place at the studio at 150 S. Virginia Road in Crystal Lake. For more information, call 815-788-9100 or visit www.downtownprophoto.com.

Layers! Learn ’em and love ’em When: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 10 Cost: $40

The Artistic Nude

When: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 16 Cost: $95 (Limit 10 photographers)

22 McHenry County Magazine • February 2013

McHenryCountyMagazine.com

McHenry County Conservation District Breakfast & Birding

Sunday, Feb. 17 8:30 - 10:30 a.m.

Glacial Park, Lost Valley Visitor Center Enjoy a hot beverage and a warm breakfast treat on a cold winter morning in the beautiful overlook room at the Lost Valley Visitor Center. Then off on a hike to explore Glacial Park in search of McHenry County’s winter birds. Age 14+ Bring binoculars and a field guide if you have them. Code: 213348-01, $3 r/ $3.75 nr

Discovery Days

Wednesday, Feb. 20 10 - 11 a.m. Prairieview Education Center, 2112 Behan Rd., Crystal Lake

Our Green Transformation

Enjoy an hour of fun, including a game, craft and other educational activities based around the special theme of the day. There will be a short walk if weather allows so please dress for the weather. Fee: $Free R/ $3 NR Code: 213207-01

Great Lakes Bioneers McHenry County 2013 FREE Speaker Series:

Special Presentation

MCC Luecht Conference Center, 8900 US Hwy 14, Crystal Lake

Featuring DVDs from the 2012 National Bioneers Conference followed by locally relative presentations by regional experts Eco-Topics: * �� Local Food: Building community bridges with food—Linda Mallers, FarmLogix,LLC

Science on Ice:

EXPLORING ANTARCTICA

Tuesday, Feb. 26

6:30 - 8 p.m. Ages 14+

Prairieview Education Center,

* �� Fracking 101: 2112 Behan Rd., Crystal Lake What, Where & Why Climate Change– Jack Darin, Exec. Dir., Illinois Sierra Club Award winning Crystal Lake teacher, Betty Trummel, will present the current science and technology being used to better understand our world and its For more information, visit climate history. Trummel is part of the education outreach team working with www.mcecoconference.org scientists from the Whillans Ice Stream Subglacial Project. Code: 213357-01 or call (815) 479-7817. FREE for Residents - NR $6

��

6 Cheryl and Steve Voss of McHenry spent a week in Minnesota with family before their wedding. Photos provided

Love's Tangled

Web I By LAUREN LYNCH

hen Cheryl Voss decided to give love a second chance after a heartbreaking divorce, she turned to the Internet. The year was 2006, when Match.com and other various dating sites had taken off successfully, creating a buzz amongst busy singles across the nation. At the time, Cheryl, a marketing and communications associate at the Land Conservancy of McHenry County, was busy getting her hands dirty at work. It wasn’t until she was looking through her friend’s Match.com account that curiosity got the better of the outdoor enthusiast. “As first, I was apprehensive,” Cheryl recalls. But when she saw a photograph she liked of a man just a few years older than herself, she decided to pursue him. “I liked that he was all about being outdoors,” Cheryl says of Steve Voss, the man who’s profile she had seen. “He didn’t seem like he wanted to date a million people.” For two years, the two kept in touch through email, although Cheryl admits she lost his contact information at one point. “During that time, I had dated three or four other people,” she says. It wasn’t until she stumbled across his photo again — “He never changed his photos,” Cheryl laughs — that she decided

Finding A Perfect Match In An Online World

to reach out again. Steve, who was living in McHenry and working in Mount Prospect, was open to the idea of finally meeting Cheryl on Christmas Eve in 2008. The two enjoyed snowshoeing around Glacier Park in Ringwood, recounting past conversations. “There were definitely some quiet moments, but they weren’t awkward at all,” Cheryl says. Each of them were parents — Steve has two children while Cheryl has four — and Cheryl recalls one of her daughters rolling her eyes when Cheryl told her that she was using Match.com. 6 Cheryl and Steve were married in September 2012 near a waterfall on the Granite River in the Boundary Waters canoe area in Minnesota.

“She thought I was crazy,” Cheryl says of her daughter, who was in her 20s at the time.

How the Web has changed Cheryl says that when she used Match.com, the site was used differently depending on the age of the person utilizing it. For younger adults in their mid-20s, it often was thought of as tool used for “hooking up” rather than finding a long-term relationship such as with older members. According to a Match.com representative who asks to remain anonymous, the online dating service has adjusted its offerings based on the different generations using it. Recently, the company has launched a new feature called Stir that bridges the gap between the online dating world and the offline world. “The truth is, you don’t actually ‘date’ online, you simply meet,” the representative says. “Our goal with Stir events was to simply give our members more ways to meet other singles. The events are tailored to specific ages and demographics so no one will RSVP for a happy hour with people twice their age unexpectedly.” While Stir may not have been readily available for both Cheryl and Steve during the time they used Match.com, both seem content with the activities they participated in on their own terms. But for other couples that may need help planning outings, Stir allows couples to sign up for wine tastings, volunteer events and even rock climbing sessions.

Why it worked

Talking to one another for a while before meeting was an important step each wanted to take while trying to find the right person, Cheryl says. And for them, things clicked. Cheryl and Steve were married in September 2012 near a waterfall on the Granite River in the Boundary Waters canoe area in Minnesota. They canoed to the ceremony location while their children came by pontoon. Since meeting Steve, Cheryl has had the opportunity to travel the country, visiting spots such as Yellowstone National Park and scenic areas in Maine and New Hampshire. “Even though nature is my passion, I didn’t really spend that much time in it,” she says. “Now, I enjoy every minute of it.” Success stories like the Voss’s, who live in McHenry, are nothing new for Match.com, which has helped couples find one another for years. “One in five relationships and one in six marriages start from an online dating site,” the representative for Match.com says. “Online dating provides one more way for singles to connect with others in addition to all the other ways to meet people on the search for love.” In February, a time when acts of love are especially present, Match.com usually sees a spike in membership. “We’ll see an average of [a] 30 percent spike in overall traffic,” the representative says. “People have spent the holidays with family and are more encouraged to find someone they can connect with after they’ve wrapped up.”

Who’s online?

Match.com, launched in April 1995, was the first dating website and pioneer of the online dating industry. Studies of more than 11,000 people revealed 1 in 5 new committed relationships and 1 in 6 new marriages are between people who met on an online dating site.

Match.com Demographics (U.S. data from member profiles)

• 25 percent are younger than 30; 48.5 percent are between 30 and 49; 26.5 percent are 50 and older • 74 percent have some college or college degree • 67.5 percent are non smokers, 23.6 percent are smokers (9.9 percent did not answer) • 46 percent do not have children, 23.6 percent have children who at least sometimes live at home, 21.6 percent have children away from home (8.8 percent did not answer) • The 50 and older age group is Match.com’s fastest-growing demographic mc Source: Match.com

McHenryCountyMagazine.com

February 2013 • McHenry County Magazine

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26 McHenry County Magazine • February 2013

McHenryCountyMagazine.com

family

Men, Don't Overdraw Your Account!

I don’t mean to brag, but my husband is pretty awesome. I listen to a lot of my girlfriends complain about how their husbands don’t pay much attention to them, how they don’t do anything, they are constantly fighting and generally they just don’t get along on a regular basis. Of course, my husband is certainly not perfect, and I have my fair share of venting sessions with my girlfriends. However, when all is said and done, I am pretty upfront and honest about the areas where he needs improvement, and he does the same for me. I think we can all agree that when it comes to relationships, especially married couples or those in committed relationships, the men usually have an angle. In my experience, guys are usually the most cooperative when there is something specific they are hoping to gain — if you know what I mean, wink, wink. So, since I am an upfront and honest kind of girl, I’m going to share a little secret about women with all of you men, and I’ll explain how the whole game really works. It really is quite simple, and it might just change the way you think … or perhaps it will just cause you to actually stop and think before you do something stupid. So, here’s the secret: our level of patience is like a bank account, and each time you do something to annoy us, we deduct money out of your account. For example: You don’t take out the garbage — debit. You continue to shove things in the garbage even though it is overflowing — service fee. Then, your wife takes the bag out of the garbage can and leaves it next to the garbage so all you have to do is take it out — another fine. She eventually has to take it out herself so the dog doesn’t tear the bag apart — cash withdrawal. You cut your hair or shave just mere hours after she cleans the bathroom, leaving tiny hairs all over the countertop without cleaning them up — debit.

You leave clothes on the floor right in front of the laundry basket — deduction. You leave your laundry basket with clean folded clothes in the hallway until she eventually puts everything away from you — deduction. You don’t pay attention and when you actually do put clothes in a laundry basket, it is on top of clean, folded clothes — service fee for being stupid. Not only do you fail to put dishes in the dishwasher, you leave them in the sink without rinsing them off — debit. That food left on the plate is any kind of cheese — additional debit. You actually put a dish in the dishwasher, leave food caked on it and fail to realize the dishwasher was just run and everything in it is clean — you get slapped with a double service charge because it is your second stupidity offense. When it comes to taking care of the kids, I’ll admit I have put myself in the position to do most of the work. However, there are times when a little common sense in assisting the wife of the house when the family needs to go somewhere would be greatly appreciated. For example, you get yourself all ready while your wife has to get herself and the kids dressed and ready to go. Once you are done, you sit on the couch and watch football instead of at least helping the kids put their shoes on — that’s a debit. My favorite deductions come from the lame attempts at showing affection. I am very fortunate that my husband tells me on a regular basis that I am beautiful and that he loves me, but there are times when he gets a little too grabby and I feel more like I’m being accosted by a teenage boy than a grown man. I swear one day he is going to snap my bra strap. Therefore, fellas, unwanted advances while your wife is cooking dinner, putting on makeup or when the kids are around — debit. At the end of the day, I think it

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.”

goes without saying that there is only so much left in the account. So, chances are if your significant other suddenly has a headache, the reality is you’ve overdrawn your account. That is when you are slapped with the most expensive fee of all — overdraft fee. The good news is that on several occasions, just when the funds are almost dry, my husband will do something like clean the entire house, make dinner and get the kids ready for bed just when I need him to, and he redeems himself and his account is back in the black again. mc

family

Watching The Web

How to monitor childen’s use of the Internet I By JAMI KUNZER

When Michelle Walker’s son is on the computer, she’s watching. That includes checking the history of the websites he’s visited. Like many parents, the Marengo mom of two, ages 8 and 14, worries about about the safety of her children’s computer use. “The door is always open,” she says. “I’m always monitoring ... I feel like all it takes for them is clicking the wrong site. “Unfortunately, we live in a world where adults prey on our children.”

Online Safety

It’s a topic becoming more important every year as children spend more time on computers than ever before — how can parents keep their children safe from online threats? Even video games, such as PlayStation 3, allow children to communicate with strangers as they play games. Parents can set the guidelines for their own

28 McHenry County Magazine • February 2013

children, but what if their kids are contacted by unknown people or receive threatening or offensive messages? “That worries me,” Walker says. “It’s hard, too. It’s basically just trusting your kid.” Walker already has told her children that they won’t be able to take part in online social media, including Facebook, until they’re 18 years old. Until that age, she says, “I feel they’re too young to understand it’s out there forever in the world.” It’s too easy for children to post photographs, comments, status updates and anything else that might be inappropriate, she says. And with cyberbullying — in which hurtful and humiliating messages and photographs are shared with the intent to embarrass, hurt or harm — on the rise,

children are even more at risk, experts say. In response to the trend, the Illinois Attorney General’s Office created www. ebully411.com to provide parents, teachers and students with the latest news and information about cyberbullying. It also features an E-Info Hotline, a phone-

and web-based resource staffed by safety specialists to help victims and educate bullies as to the consequences of their actions.

What Can Parents Do?

Online programs can be used positively and responsibly. It just takes a bit of education, for both children and parents, officials say. Along with setting limits, experts say parents must set good examples, understand and be aware of what their children are using and keep the lines of communication open. Become comfortable using Facebook, Xbox, YouTube, Myspace, Snapchat and Twitter, says Laurie Crain, coordinator for the Drug Free Project for Woodstock Community Unit School District 200. Monitor all children using technology, but especially those younger than 10, she says. And ensure that you have access to their accounts, including their passwords, she says. “Privacy settings should be set so that public access is limited as much as possible,” Crain says. “When parents establish guidelines for what is acceptable for online use and post reminders, there is an open line of communication begun that will serve both parents and children well.” Guidelines could include who should be on a friend list, what constitutes an appropriate conversation, what sites can be viewed and how parents will monitor Internet use, she says. “Talk to your children about how they should not

share any personal information with anybody they do not know,” she says. “In that conversation, parents should remind children

to inform them if anyone asks questions or requests information that makes them feel uncomfortable.”

HOW TO KEEP IT SAFE The following information is from the Illinois Child Exploitation Task Force at the Illinois Attorney General’s Office: “It is important that you talk with your kids about their Internet use and let them know they can come to you for help. Setting a good example online is also a great way to show your children how to use the Internet responsibly and stay safe.”

The following are some online safety tips for parents: r Keep the computer in a room — other than the child’s — with frequent foot traffic so all household members can monitor times of use and material viewed. r Set up agreements and guidelines about the use of the computer. r Understand the functions of the software programs your child uses. If you do not understand these functions, ask your child to teach you.

r Be aware of what Internet sites your child is visiting. Investigate blocking or screening services provided by various Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and software programs. r Learn about everyone your child meets online and discuss these relationships with your child. r Spend time online with your child and discuss their online experiences just as you would ask them about their day.

Set a good example for your children with your own Internet use: • Do not respond to any threatening or offensive messages and encourage your child to do the same. • Never give out any personal information and encourage your child to do the same. For more information, visit www. IllinoisAttorneyGeneral.gov. mc

3 Monitor all children using technology, but especially those younger than 10, says Laurie Crain, coordinator for the Drug Free Project for Woodstock Community Unit School District 200.

February 2013 • McHenry County Magazine

family / success lives next door 3 Marie and Gene Marino on their wedding day in 1949. Photos provided

A Beautiful Life Together I By LEE NELSON I

They had mutual relatives — her aunt was married to his cousin — who thought Marie and Gene Marino would make the perfect couple. “They kept telling me that I should meet this guy,” Marie says. “I could [have] care[d] less. His relatives were telling him the same thing.” In the 1940s, those relatives secretly invited the young Marie and Gene to a family dinner. They didn’t mention that the other would be there. It didn’t go well. “When we saw each other, we hated each other,” Marie says. “But it didn’t take long for us to realize they were right. We just got started off on the wrong foot.” Two days later, Gene called Marie, and they’ve been together ever since. They married Oct. 8, 1949. She was 20. He was 27. “We were sitting in the car, and he said he was wondering what my ring size was,” Marie recalls. “Suddenly, he slipped the engagement ring on me.” She looked down and said, “Oh, my God. It’s an engagement ring.” Marie still doesn’t think Gene ever said the actual words, “Will you marry me?” 4 Marie and Gene Marino live in Huntley today.

30 McHenry County Magazine • February 2013

But today, the couple from Huntley celebrates 63 years of marriage and has six children, 13 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. Gene is 90, Marie is 83. “After this long, you understand each other,” Marie says. “Arguments are ridiculous after a while. We laugh more than we argue. Some things you just don’t bother with any more.”

Love through the ages

The Marinos lived in Chicago for the first seven years of their married life. They moved to Lincolnwood for 45 years, and they have lived in the Del Webb active adult community in Huntley for the last 10 years. Gene had served as the private secretary for the vice president of the Canadian National Railroad for a while. Then, he owned a liquor store and bar at Central and Lawrence streets in Chicago. The couple shared hobbies together. Today, Marie is getting back into dancing, something that she has always loved. She tap dances at Del Webb. “It’s a well-known fact that at any wedding, we would be up there,” Marie says. “We love the old band music. Love is like dancing through life, and we have had a beautiful life together.” Gene was president

of the condo association the first five years the couple lived there. He continues to make all of the posters and announcements for group activities and takes all the pictures at birthday parties and events. “He is a computer whiz,” Marie says. “He’s on Facebook now, too. He is so laid back and loves people.” Marie’s advice to young couples is to realize that marriage is a very hard thing to do. “I always tell people that the first 62 years were the hardest,” she says. “You think you will change your husband, even for the littlest of things. You will never change him.”

Getting through the hard times

Marie says when she was growing up, she always said she would have many kids. She and Gene were both raised Catholic, and they raised their own children in Catholic schools. All of their children went to college and today they range in age from 49 to 62. But it hasn’t been all smooth sailing. McHenryCountyMagazine.com

Gene suffered a stroke late last year, and he continues to recover. And the couple’s youngest daughter, Peggy, died of pancreatic cancer last year. She left behind her husband, a 13-year-old daughter and a 16-year-old son. “She died within six weeks of being diagnosed,” Marie says. “It was all over so fast. She was getting chemotherapy, and we thought she was going to get better.” Peggy also suffered a stroke and couldn’t speak. “Then she was gone,” Marie says. “The only good thing that has come out of this is that our second youngest daughter has become a second mother to her sister’s children. It’s marvelous. She is so intuitive to their feelings. Connie has her own three daughters. It’s a beautiful thing in a family.”

4 The Marinos gather with family in 2007. They have been blessed with six children, 13 grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

A close-knit clan

Gene and Marie’s daughter, Betty Maliska of Georgia, says that all of her friends growing up always said, “My family was the most normal family they ever knew.” “It was a lovely, great childhood,” Betty says. “We lived in a modern, threebedroom home with six of us kids, and my grandmother lived there, too. But it never felt small. It was a homey home. We never had a baby sitter because my grandmother was there.” All of the siblings remain very close to one another, and all of their kids hang out with each other, too. “All my father did was work when we were young,” she says. “You don’t realize how special your parents are until your own kids think their grandparents are amazing.” Betty says her parents do everything together and are very good with each other. “They are very true to themselves, and they have never interfered in our lives or made judgments about any of us,” she says. “They are completely accepting of all of us. They just always expected that we would just do the right thing.” She has often heard her father say as he gets older, “How lucky can one man be?” “We feel the same way about having them as our parents,” she says. mc

Editor’s note: After this article was written, but before publication, Gene Marino passed away at the age of 90. McHenry County Magazine offers its condolences to the Marino family and thanks them for the opportunity to share Gene and Marie’s story. McHenryCountyMagazine.com

“We laugh more than we argue. Some things you just don’t bother with any more.” Marie Marino, wife to Gene Marino for 63 years

Apartment Style Living

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February 2013 • McHenry County Magazine

of WOMEN distinction AWARDS LUNCHEON MAY 8, 2013 The Second Annual Women of Distinction Award is given to women who have made a difference in McHenry County and who are representative role models as leaders in their ďŹ elds and communities. Nominations will be taken at the beginning of the year, and the honorees will be chosen by a selection comittee from McHenry County. A welcome reception will provide networking opportunities that will precede lunch and the awards ceremony. The awards ceremony will honor women of distinction and provide honorees with an opportunity to share their stories.

To nominate a Woman of Distinction go to www.mchenrycountrymagazine.com, click on events, click on the Women of Distinction logo and complete the nomination form by February 20, 2013. Presenting Sponsor

Major Sponsors

Speaker Sponsor

Luncheon Sponsors

of WOMEN distinction

Women of Distinction identifies women who have made a difference in McHenry County and who are representative role models as leaders in their fields and community. Honorees will be profiled in the McHenry County Magazine’s May issue and recognized at an awards luncheon on May 8, 2013. Please fill out this form completely (use additional paper if necessary) and return by Feb. 20, 2013. Additional forms can be downloaded by visiting www.mchenrycountymagazine.com.

Today’s date:__________________________________________ Education:

A. Nominee’s Personal Information Name ___________________________________________________________ Organization/company/corp. _______________________________________ Title_____________________________________________________________ Phone ___________________________________________________________ City of residence__________________________________________________ E-mail __________________________________________________________ Hometown (childhood) ____________________________________________ Date of birth _____________________________________________________

______________________________________________ ______________________________________________ ______________________________________________ Family: ______________________________________________ ______________________________________________ Please include bio/résumé/vita

B. Achievements In the space below, please describe the nominee’s greatest personal, professional or job-related achievement. Honors or awards can be included as well as examples of a challenging problem solved, a major project completed or a product produced. ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ C. Nominator

DEADLINE FOR NOMINATION: Feb. 20, 2013

*Name _____________________________________________________ Title _______________________________________________________ Organization _______________________________________________ Phone ______________________________________________________ *Email: _____________________________________________________

FAX: 815-477-4960 Mail: P.O. Box 250, Crystal Lake, Illinois 60039 Attn: Kelly Buchanan Email: kbuchanan@shawmedia.com

*Must include to be informed if your nominee has been selected

Presenting Sponsor

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Blackstone Golf Club

“Our unique location is unlike any you will see, offering a mix of stone, mahogany and earth tones to create an elegant ambiance. The dining room features a four sided masonry ﬁreplace, custom black chandeliers and replica hand hewn ceiling beams, making Blackstone the ideal location for your special day. Nature’s beauty outside is captured and reﬂected on the interior of this structure, bringing the environment directly to your table. This setting accommodates up to 150 guests for a sit down dinner or 180 guests for cocktails and Hors D’oeuvres. Whether you would like an intimate ceremony or a lavish reception, we give your wedding the personal attention it needs to make it the event you desire. Traditional, Grand and Royal packages are available.

Start your journey at Blackstone, and enjoy the beginning of your new life together.”

9700 St. Andrews Drive Marengo, IL 60152 www.blackstonegc.com (815) 923-1800

A special supplement to McHenry County Magazine

Meet McHenry County businesses that can attend to every detail of your big day. page 36

McHenryCountyMagazine.com

See how Blackstone Golf Club in Marengo can be your perfect venue. page 42

Learn about five popular wedding cake options and see what appeals to you. page 48

February 2013 â&#x20AC;˘ McHenry County Magazine

weddings

Wedding? Wonderful! Planning a beautiful wedding can be easy when you know where to go, and McHenry County residents are fortunate to have some of the Chicago area’s top wedding service providers close to home. What’s new for Bridal Season 2013 and beyond? A few local wedding pros weigh in.

By Elizabeth Harmon ij Photos by Melissa Emory

36 McHenry County Magazine • February 2013

McHenryCountyMagazine.com

A Formal Invitation

Old world, upscale, crisp and classic are all ways to describe wedding invitation trends for 2013. “It’s no longer bad taste to spend money on a formal affair,” says Anna Novak, invitation manager with Kathryn’s Bridal and Dress Shop in McHenry. “During the recession, it seemed like things were simpler, but now it’s trending back.” Novak credits the British royal wedding as one of the driving forces behind the resurgence in formal looks, but destination weddings still call for something more casual. As with bridesmaids’ dresses, this year’s hottest color is navy blue. “It’s the new black,” Novak says. One trend that isn’t connecting with local brides is a shift to electronic invitations and online guest list management. “For a Tupperware party, yes. For a wedding, no,” Novak says. She says that low response rates, as well as older guests’ discomfort with the Internet, are making these new options slow to catch on. “There might be an option to reply online, but you always want to offer snail-mail, because seniors are a big part of most wedding guest lists,” she says. However, the proliferation of GPS has made direction cards obsolete. “Because they’re less necessary, couples are willing to spend more on the invitation,” Novak says. Invitations by Kathryn’s • 3807 W. Elm St. (Route 120) • McHenry • 815-385-7330 • kathryns-bridal.com Additional places to look in McHenry County *Please note this is not a comprehensive list

Barb’s Card and Gift • 1918 N. Richmond Road, McHenry Commons • McHenry • 815-385.6750 • barbscardandgift.com Little Shop of Papers • 740 W. Northwest Hwy, Suite 6E • Barrington • 847-382-7733 • littleshopofpapers.com

Letter-Perfect

Derived from Greek for “beautiful writing,” calligraphy adds a special touch and a unified look to invitations, place cards, menus and more. “There’s a quality to hand lettering that says, ‘This is important, this is our wedding,’” says Kim Shenberger, owner of The Constant Scribe in Crystal Lake. Hand calligraphy is created using a pen with removable tips, and Shenberger says she can recreate any font. “Most calligraphers have four or five different styles, but I can copy anything,” she says. “I haven’t found one that I haven’t been able to do.” She also is able to precisely match wedding colors by using gouache, a water-based paint, rather than ink. Shenberger says the upcoming bridal season promises a more traditional look with white and ivory invitations addressed in black or gold. “I expect vintage to be huge this year – think ‘Downton Abbey’ and ‘The Great Gatsby’ – which will carry over into vintage lettering styles,” she says. Informal and destination weddings are simple, incorporating natural tones with a pop of color. Along with hand-lettering services, Shenberger also offers guidance and suggestions to clients concerning invitation etiquette. Brides using the save-the-date cards, such as those with a long engagement, destination wedding or a wedding during the peak bridal season, should have the cards out at least six months ahead of time, she says. Brides sending invitations only should have them mailed six to eight weeks ahead of the date. In either case, it’s best to schedule with a calligrapher as early as possible. “They’ll want to contact the calligrapher soon after the engagement,” Shenberger says.

5 The bouquet pictured above was arranged by Chapel Hill Florist in McHenry. Photo provided by Chapel Hill Florist 3(Facing page and at left) Kathryn’s Bridal and Dress Shop in McHenry offers rows of dress options for brides, bridesmaids, mothers of the bride and more. 6 “Roxy” is a mannequin dressed in nearly 240 different wedding invitations from Invitations by Kathryn’s in McHenry.

The Constant Scribe • Crystal Lake • 815-355-0375 • theconstantscribe.com Additional places to look in McHenry County

*Please note this is not a comprehensive list

Calligraphy by Cristine • 1706 Hillside Lane • McHenry • 815-6796440 • calligraphybycristine.com Calligraphy by Linda • 2807 Kashmiri • McHenry • 815-385-2829 • lindamedeenscalligraphy.com

Here Comes the Bride

5 Strapless wedding gowns — such as this one at Kathryn’s — are perenially popular.

Kathryn Trocki, owner of Kathryn’s Bridal and Dress Shop in McHenry, says romantic, lace gowns and vintage styles are becoming increasingly popular as brides look for alternatives to the perennially popular strapless wedding gown. “We’re seeing a trend toward cap sleeves or lace sleeves, keyhole backs or very low-cut backs which require a strap,” Trocki says. Though British royal bride Kate Middleton — now Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge — wore a long-

sleeved lace gown, Trocki does not believe her dress inspired the trend. “There were a few people who wanted replicas, but people weren’t really coming in and asking for it,” she says. Instead, she feels that the shift is driven more by the popularity of vintage jewelry and a bride’s desire to express her individuality. Trocki says she’s want to include elements taken from a mother’s or grandmother’s wedding gown. “Brides have brought in their mother’s veil or a piece of heirloom lace from Grandma’s gown to incorporate into their dress,” she says. “It’s wonderful when you can incorporate that into a bride’s complete look.” Veils in all sizes and styles also are popular. “Brides often think they don’t want one, but then they put it on and it just completes the look,” Trocki says. “With a veil, you truly look like a bride.” Deep blues, in a spectrum of shades, are popular choices for bridesmaids. “Navy blue and marine blue are colors many people look good in and pair with other colors so well,” Trocki says. “Flowers are enhanced beautifully; it’s a crisp, classic look.” Wedding mothers can be among the most challenging members of the bridal party to dress, and Trocki says that it’s important to work one-on-one with the women to find the right dress. “We suggest colors they love, while keeping in mind complementing the bride’s colors,” Trocki says. “Often, they want darker colors and dresses that are sophisticated and elegant.” Kathryn’s Bridal and Dress Shop • 3807 W. Elm St. (Route 120) • McHenry • 815-385-7330 • kathrynsbridal.com Additional places to look in McHenry County

*Please note this is not a comprehensive list

A L’Amour Bridal and A L’Amour Party • 236 W. Northwest Highway • Barrington • 847-381-5858 • alamour. com Wedding Belles LTD • 334 W. Main St. • Barrington • 847-304-0414 • weddingbellesltd.com

5 Janice Stretch’s custom-designed hair fascinators combine the bridal party colors, crystals, rhinestones and beads. Photos provided by JaniceStyle

Topping it Off Vintage-styled, eye-length veils and colorful hair fascinators adorned with large flowers, feathers and beads provide a unique 3 Janice accent to bridal gowns, Stretch poses bridesmaids’ and in her own mothers’ dresses. wedding dress Janice Stretch, and a hair owner of JaniceStyle fascinator she and creator of such designed. fascinators, believes that some of the interest in vintage style is a reaction to the royal wedding, but it’s also a yearning for a different pace of life. “I think we’re so inundated with technology and our lives seem to move so fast, vintage helps people remember to slow down,” she says. Stretch said the bandeau veil, which has French netting over the eyes, pairs especially well with the currently popular lace and vintage looks. “Brides are looking for a dress that makes them feel special, and the trends I see for next year include long sleeves, higher necklines and lace,” she says. “It’s classic and elegant, a welcome alternative to strapless.” Her custom-designed hair fascinators combine the bridal party colors, crystals, rhinestones and beads. “If a bride doesn’t want color in her dress, she can pull in her bridesmaids’ colors into the hairpiece,” Stretch says. Popular colors are vibrant shades of aqua, eggplant and orange, and looks range from simple to showy. “It depends on the bride’s taste,” Stretch says. “Some brides are more conservative, others are open to more flashy pieces. I like to encourage them, because it can really set the style for the wedding.” JaniceStyle McHenry • 815-355-7890 • janicestyle. com McHenryCounty-

Fresh, Natural … and Fabulous

For bridal bouquets, classic, elegant flowers such as orchids, lilies, roses and dahlias continue to be popular, says Linda Mahoney, owner of Chapel Hill Florist in McHenry. “This year we saw a lot of purple and more bright colors,” she says. Often, bouquets are embellished with feathers, beads, rhinestones and crystals. Long, trailing cascade bouquets are seeing resurgence, though the round, symmetrical “hand-tied” bouquets continue to be popular.

4 Kathryn Trocki opened Kathryn’s Bridal and Dress Shop in McHenry nine years ago.

Call today to reserve your wedding reception at the

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February 2013 • McHenry County Magazine

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4 Kim Shenberger of The Constant Scribe says she can recreate any font. Photo provided by The Constant Scribe

Mahoney says there also is an interest in natural looks that include fewer flowers and more greenery, pods and grasses. Male members of the wedding party are wearing simple flowers, including thistle and a yellow, ball-shaped blossom called crespedia. Mahoney says that many of her brides hold their ceremony and reception at the same location and like to use hydrangea, orchids and stock to decorate. For centerpieces, brides often prefer a simple style, usually sticking to one or two types of flowers, paired with candles, glass cylinders, cubes and mirrors. “We’re still seeing submerged flowers with the candles floating on top,” she says. “I don’t know how much longer that will continue, as it’s been around a while, but we’re still seeing a lot of it.”

4 Kathryn’s Bridal and Dress Shop also offers tuxedo rentals.

Visit Aesthetics, a designer boutique and studio in Crystal Lake, where you can for shop one of a kind gifts and treasures. Connie Perez’s boutique offers custom interior design work. Call Connie today for your interior design needs.

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40 McHenry County Magazine • February 2013

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Chapel Hill Florist • 2913 W. Elm (Route 120) • McHenry • 815-344-0290 • chapelhillfloristil.com Additional places to look in McHenry County

*Please note this is not a comprehensive list

Countryside Flower Shop • 5301 E. Terra Cotta Ave. (Route 176) • Crystal Lake • 815-459-8130 • countrysideflowershop.com Huntley Floral • 10436 Route 47 • Huntley • 847669-0900 • huntleyfloral.com mc

McHenryCountyMagazine.com

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February 2013 • McHenry County Magazine

weddings

Blackstone Golf Club Makes Wedding Dreams Come True

5 Dan Weck — owner and developer of Blackstone Golf Club and Blackstone Subdivision, the golf community that surrounds the course — believes his facilities are the ideal setting for any special occasion, especially weddings. Photo provided

Karina Philippi believes in promises.

A year and a half ago, the 39-year-old of Algonquin planned her wedding at Blackstone Golf Club in Marengo, and even though 6 “We’ll make our menus specifically for the bride,” says Tom Fabich, executive chef at Blackstone. Photo by Heather Nelson

she had some unusual requests — such as riding a motorcycle down the aisle — she was confident her dreams would come true. “I knew the owners — I’ve known them a long time now — so I knew all my needs would be met, no matter what,” Philippi says. “I knew if something gets promised, it gets delivered. I was very confident that whatever I asked for would be delivered.” Philippi and her husband, Jamie, shared a simple, elegant wedding Oct. 8, 2011, at Blackstone that blended an outdoor ceremony next to the 18th hole with an inside/outside reception that utilized the new clubhouse and veranda. “People loved that we rode motorcycles,” Philippi says. “I loved everything about it. It was just a perfect day. It was everything that I had imagined. From the weather to the setting to the decorations to the staff [who were] really friendly, everything was perfect.”

Ideal setting Dan Weck — owner and developer of Blackstone Golf Club and Blackstone Subdivision, the golf community that surrounds the course — believes his facilities are the ideal setting for any special occasion, especially weddings. That’s because he designed everything himself, starting his development project in 1997 and finishing the clubhouse just two years ago.

“The theme, it’s upscale, but it’s comfortable,” Weck says of Blackstone. “And I’m kind of a blend of private club and public, so it goes along with our golf business and it’s carried over into the restaurant side of things and the wedding side.” In fact, most everything about Blackstone could be called a blend. The elegance of the clubhouse — which has a lodge-like feel — blends in with the environment with its earth tones, stone work and woodwork, both on the inside and outside, Weck says. Two large, stone pillars welcome guests at the front entrance, and inside, the space has multiple focal points, including hand-hewn ceiling beams and a four-sided masonry fireplace. “Not too many places have a foursided stone fireplace, and it’s centrally located [in the room],” Weck says. “That just goes hand-in-hand with the theme of the building, the environment … so, it almost feels like you’re not in Illinois, you could be out west. It’s just a little bit different than most clubs around here.” The indoor space is meant for more intimate wedding parties, as it seats 150 people comfortably, but the room opens up to an outdoor veranda that can seat 50 and helps bring the outdoors inside. Facing the 18th hole and a small

I By STEPHANIE N. GRIMOLDBY

pond, the veranda — plus the back porch — are huge hits with guests, says Stephanie Heinz, events coordinator for Blackstone. “The fireplace is a selling point for us,” Heinz says. “It’s such an eye catcher, and it gives it such a warm, cozy feeling. [But] people seem to really love the views.” The blending of environments is what drew Philippi to choose Blackstone as her wedding venue. “I just loved the way it looked, the mixture of outside and inside,” she says. “I wanted to have a lot of options. I didn’t want to have a typical wedding … we wanted it to be a party, and that’s what it was. We had a buffet and lots of appetizers so people could interact and talk. They loved that they could talk outside … no tables were set up, [so] everybody could sit where they wanted to. Everybody was moving around, dancing [with the] laid back atmosphere of the outdoors … it didn’t feel overcrowded [because we were] able to use outside — that felt really good.” Plus, the photo options were incredible, Philippi says. “We took pictures on the golf course, [near] the pond, in the woods — the variety of photos was great.”

Ideal food and service

Tom Fabich, executive chef at Blackstone, says when it comes to dining, anything goes at Blackstone. “We’ll make our menus specifically for the bride,” Fabich says. In the past, Fabich has prepared simple, comfort-food menus with mini burgers or gourmet macaroni and cheese, but he’s also delved into ethnic dishes and full-on gourmet dinners, including surf and turf. “All of the entrees and hors 6 Blackstone’s theme d’oeuvres are is upscale, but it’s made in house,” comfortable, Weck says. Fabich says. Photo by Heather “The advantage Nelson [is we can] explain how the food is made.” Some of Fabich’s hors d’oeuvres, including his pastries, pesto points and Hawaiian beef or chicken brochettes — which are drizzled with pineapple reduction on top — have been particular favorites.

6 The dining room at Blackstone Golf Club. Photo provided

“When I think of wedding food, I usually 6 Inside, the space has multiple focal don’t have great memories points, including hand-hewn ceiling beams of it,” Weck says. “But and a centrally-located four-sided masonry the weddings that we’ve fireplace. Photo provided done here, the foods that [Tom has] prepared, it’s always at the highest level, and the people who eat here really enjoy the food. And that always makes the event happier. People look forward to the meal — it needs to be great.” It’s not just the food that is great, however. The staff and the service provided is good, too. “They were really accommodating for all of our wishes,” Philippi says. “We didn’t really have any hiccups on the day. It wasn’t really crazy or stressful … they listen. I’ve known Dan for a long time. I know if he says yes to something, that means it’s going to happen.” Weck simply agrees. “[Our wedding couples are] definitely going to count on service,” he says. “It’s like everything that we do out here — our product is very detailed. The building, the golf course — if you’re coming here to have your wedding, everything we do is all about the details, and that’s what makes everybody’s wedding different. We like to think that whether it’s a small request or a large request, we can get it done … I just have the right people.”

6 Tom Fabich, executive chef, makes all entrees and hors d’ oeuvres in house. Photo by Heather Nelson

6 Other focal points inside Blackstone’s clubhouse include dark wood tables, a granite bar, four large, custom chandeliers and a working train track that runs suspended near the ceiling, offering a fun, playful vibe to the room. Photo by Heather Nelson

Ideal golf options While Blackstone may be ideal as a wedding venue, it’s also ideal for those who love the game of golf. Weck, an avid golfer his entire life, always knew he wanted to build his own golf course. What he built was a shot-makers course with fast greens and rolling terrain surrounded by 37 acres of wetlands. “You’re going to use every club in your bag,” he says. “You have to know where to miss, and that may sound simple, but it’s not … . The thing most guys do, they look at the yardage. [Our course] is not that long, but it’s a very challenging course, and the yardage is a little deceitful. It plays longer than what it says.” Still, with four sets of tee boxes, high handicappers to scratch golfers will find the right level they can play at, he says. “The best thing about this place is the greens,” Weck says. “It always comes down to the putting surface, and I’d like to think that our greens roll just as well as anybody’s, public or private, and that’s what really sets us apart. Blackstone keeps its greens on the quicker side, which is what most private clubs do, and there is some slope to the greens, so new players might not be used to the speed. But those who play on a regular basis really appreciate the hand-mown greens, he says. Many people who drive by may think Blackstone is a links course because the course trees aren’t fully grown, but the course actually features seven holes that are carved out of the woods, Weck says.

“There are plenty of big trees, which is nice because it feels like you could be playing in a course in the northwoods in Wisconsin or Michigan somewhere,” he says. Weck says the best value available at Blackstone is to become a member, and he offers three different membership programs to cater to any individual’s needs. “Do you want to play here every day? Then you would be a gold member,” he says. “If you want to play during week days, [we have a] silver membership. Bronze is for the golfer who wants to play here 15 or 16 times a year, so they have the flexibility to play at other places.” And if none of those options seems right? “Just use it as public course,” he says. mc

Blackstone Golf Club 9700 St. Andrews Drive Marengo, IL 60152 815-923-1800 www.blackstonegc.com Conveniently located right off of Route 20 and I-90 Starting Feb. 15, Blackstone Restaurant will re-open its Friday night fish fry from 5 to 9 p.m. The public is welcome to dine in.

Photo by Bob Yingst

GOLF CLINICS

In the summer, Blackstone will offer youth golf clinics taught by PGA professional Jeff Grubb. More information will be available soon. Visit www.blackstonegc.com for updates.

Blossom Shop Receive $100 off your event when you book your ďŹ&#x201A;owers with Blossom Shop. Call and make an appointment with our amazing design team today! We pride ourselves in the quality of our arrangements and guarantee to care for them with the same pristine care that we would if this was our own special day!

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weddings

Taking The Cake By GateHouse News Service

The wedding cake is an important element of your special day. It’s a focal point at your reception and will be remembered by your guests for its beauty and taste. Wedding cake styles can range from the traditional stacked cake to a sculpted masterpiece. When choosing your perfect cake, remember to allow your personal style to show in the final design.

Individual cakes

Individual mini-cakes generally look like tiny wedding cakes and are distinguishable from cupcakes. They may be displayed on tiers but often are served on small plates placed at the guests’ tables. When serving individual cakes, you will need a bridal cake for cake-cutting pictures and for your own enjoyment. These personal-sized wedding cakes can be decorated the same as a larger cake, including delicate piping and marzipan decorations, which can be molded into flowers and other tiny shapes and decorations.

Stacked

The traditional stacked or tiered cake is one of the most recognizable wedding cake styles. The bottom layer is the widest, and each ascending layer becomes smaller. Traditionally, a stacked cake has at least three levels and each tier is round. However, five and six levels can be stacked with tiers shaped as squares or octagons for visual appeal. Stacked tiers can be set so they appear off-kilter or topsy-turvy as well. This variation can be whimsical or elegant depending on the cake’s decor. In addition, stacked cakes are a blank canvas for decoration. This style supports delicately formed sugar flowers or other decorations such as beading, ribbons or intricate scrollwork.

Sheet cake

Depending on the size and style of your wedding, a large sheet cake may the perfect choice. A sheet cake can be iced with lush buttercream frosting or even covered with smooth fondant. Buttercream is a light, creamy and versatile frosting. It can be flavored and colored to suit your

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February 2013 • McHenry County Magazine

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50 McHenry County Magazine • February 2013

preferences. Cakes covered in fondant will look smooth and seamless. Sugar flowers or other decorations can be attached to either fondant- or buttercreamfrosted cakes. Sheet cakes also may have a layer of cream or fruit filling.

Sculpted

Cupcake tower

A sculpted cake is one that has been formed into a three-dimensional shape and is a unique way to let your personality shine. A creative wedding cake artisan can shape your cake into a replica of your chapel, an elegant gazebo or even a collection of seashells for a beach wedding.

Cupcakes arranged in a tower can have a strong visual impact and allow for versatility. With cupcakes, you can have multiple flavors and various decorations and frostings to complement your bridal colors. From red velvet to mocha and lemonvanilla cream, the cake flavors for cupcakes are almost endless. A typical cupcake tower will have about six tiers or levels, with the bottom tier being the widest and each ascending tier becoming smaller, similar to a stacked cake. mc

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February 2013 â&#x20AC;˘ McHenry County Magazine

9600 Turnberry Trail, Lakewood, IL 60014 815.455.0501 • www.turnberrycc.com

Wedding Party Planning… Turnkey at Turnberry Congratulations! You or someone you love is getting married. Maybe it is your sister, or the cousin who always seemed a sister. Your childhood best friend. Your college roommate. Even your son. Celebrating a wedding means more than a ceremony and reception, and if you are a parent of the groom, maid of honor, or best man, you will soon play an integral part in creating a memory the bride and groom will treasure. But how do you do it…especially when there are so many details to consider. Maybe you’ve never planned anything like it before. The answer? Turn to a professional, like Eileen Lackovic, Events and Membership Director at Turnberry Country Club in Lakewood. “I have the perfect job, because I love planning parties. From coming up with a great theme, creating the menu, and seeing to all of the little touches that bring it to life, we have the best staff here that can turn your party into something special,” she said. Voted one of McHenry County’s Best Country Clubs in the Northwest Herald’s 2012, “Best of the Fox” Readers’ Choice awards, Turnberry combines the luxury and outstanding service of a private club, with a welcoming atmosphere to make every guest feel at home, from the ﬁrst toast to the ﬁnal bite. “What’s so great is that while we’re a

private club, you don’t have to be a member to host a party here,” said Lackovic. More than a banquet hall, Turnberry’s 30,000 square foot clubhouse features distinct areas, which can be transformed into the perfect setting for your party, while Executive Chef Ryan Johnson’s creative versatility means fabulous food, customized to your taste and budget. Read on, as Lackovic offers four ideas for a special, memorable Bridal Shower, Groom’s Golf Outing, Rehearsal Dinner and Postwedding brunch. Garden Room Graciousness Sun-drenched, intimate, and comfortable, Turnberry’s Garden Room is perfect for a bridal shower, luncheon, or ladies’ dinner. The room seats a maximum of eighty guests, and has vaulted glass ceilings, brick walls, lots of windows and spectacular golf course views. An intimate upper room provides extra space for a gift tables, photos, or even a DJ. “When people come in here, we hear lots of oohs and ahhs,” said Lackovic. For a luncheon, consider a selection of wrapped sandwiches, a Southwestern or Caesar chicken salad. For dinner, how about pasta primavera? For a Girls’ Night Out that can include guests of all ages, serve hot and cold appetizers, bring in a DJ, kick off your shoes and dance!

Groom’s Golf and Poker For a groom’s celebration that also crosses generations, consider a day of golf or an evening of cards. Turnberry’s gently rolling, 18hole, 72-par traditional course offers plenty of challenge, and the richly paneled lounge is a great place for up to 50 guests to relax and unwind. “We can work with our vendors and even offer whisky or beer tastings,” Lackovic said. For dinner, Lackovic suggests a patio cook-out, serving Turnberry’s famous bratwurst, juicy burgers, or for a luxurious touch, steak. Casual or formal, Chef Johnson will round out the menu with delicious side dishes, from baked potatoes to grilled vegetables, salads, fresh-baked breads, and dessert. Finish out the evening, with a poker tournament in the club’s private card room, Lackovic suggests. Relaxing Rehearsal Dinner To set the perfect mood, on the eve of the wedding, how about a night in Tuscany? Even if international travel isn’t possible, the Turnberry staff can transform the private patio outside the Garden Room into an Italian backyard, perfect for a causally elegant dinner of classic Italian dishes, ﬁne wine, and relaxing conversation. The patio can be set up for smaller intimate groups, or can seat up to eighty guests. “We can set up tables with hurricane candleholders, string Italian lights in the trees, put out fresh ﬂowers. We never have to worry about the weather, because if it rains, we can move the party right into the Garden Room,” Lackovic says. Begin with appetizers of freshly made bruschetta, fried calamari, a caprese platter or antipasti tray. For dinner, Lackovic suggests a chicken breast stuffed with fresh mozzarella, prosciutto, roasted red pepper and basil, accompanied by pasta or salad, and fresh-baked bread. Serve cannoli, or tiramisu for a delightful dessert. Post-wedding Brunch Just because the wedding is over, doesn’t mean the celebration has to end. Close out the weekend by bringing everyone together once more, for a delightful morning brunch. The sun-swept Turnberry ballroom accommodates up to 225 guests, or can be divided into a more intimate space seating up to sixty. The outdoor patio offers a panoramic golf course view, and a lovely spot to enjoy fresh-brewed coffee, Mimosas or a tangy Bloody Mary. Serve a plated or buffet brunch featuring fresh fruit salads, eggs Benedict, delightful sweet rolls, breads and more. After, head to the links for an afternoon of golf. For throwing such a great party…you deserve it! ADVERTISEMENT

health / WEIGHT-LOSS series

3 Carolyn Bathauer, pictured with Julie Williams at Body and Mind Pilates Plus in Crystal Lake, has added private one-on-one Pilates sessions to her fitness routine in her goal to continue to lose weight.

Finding FOCUS Month Two Fitness Progress Report For Two McHenry County Residents By Betsy Demitropoulos Photos by HEATHER NELSON

This is the second installment of a three-month series that will follow two McHenry County residents, Carolyn Bathauer and Howard Eady, as they continue their journey toward a healthy and fit life.

Carolyn Bathauer, 31, McHenry

December was an interesting month for Carolyn Bathauer. She had the flu, which put her out of commission for about a week. With the year’s end approaching, work was beyond busy. A good friend got married. And, of course, there were the holidays. But through it all, Bathauer didn’t gain a single pound, and she couldn’t be happier. Her personal trainer, Julie Williams, says Bathauer should consider the fact that she maintained her weight during a time when most people put on a few pounds a success. “Even though I didn’t lose any weight in December, I still went down a jean size,” Bathauer says. “Some months I might not lose weight, but I gain muscle and lose inches.” Since May 2012, Bathauer has lost 30 pounds and 30 inches overall by attending Pilates classes at Body and Mind Pilates Plus in Crystal Lake about three to four times a week. The studio is owned and operated by Williams, a licensed physical therapist, certified personal trainer and professional Pilates instructor. Bathauer aspires to lose 100 pounds overall, so she has 70 more pounds to go. She is giving herself two years to lose the weight — and lose it for good. Her current weight is 225 pounds. The 31-year-old has lost a good amount of weight several times in the past. She once lost 50 pounds

in six months by following the Jenny Craig weight-loss program, but once she stopped the program, she gained the weight back. Later, she lost 30 pounds, but then gained it back. Today, she’s fully committed to losing the weight. “Carolyn is incredibly motivated to lose weight the right way this time,” Williams says. “She has the determination and a great support system at [Body and Mind Pilates Plus] to keep her motivated.” Williams is very pleased with Bathauer’s progress thus far. She can tell Bathauer is getting stronger and fitter, and she’s tightening up and building muscle. Bathauer added private, one-on-one sessions at the Pilates studio to her fitness routine and her trainer says she’s going to push cardiovascular exercise in the months ahead. Williams intends to make diet a big focus for the new year and hopes to incorporate Shaklee meal shakes into Bathauer’s diet. Bathauer says she pays more attention to what her body needs as opposed to what her body wants. She’s eating more green vegetables by putting spinach in her breakfast omelets. She even eats kale now. She also gave up drinking Diet Pepsi — one of the hardest things she’s had to do.

3 Howard Eady enjoys the group classes offered at Centegra Health Bridge in Huntley. His goals are to lead a healthy life, build definition, get stronger and have more energy.

INSIDEView Editor’s note: McHenry County Magazine’s own niche product manager, Kelly Buchanan, 57, of Huntley, has embarked on her own weight-loss journey, and will share her thoughts periodically as she moves forward toward a healthier lifestyle. make choices about the foods you eat that will Two months into her get you to that goal. If you make a choice, you are personalized 12-week in control. “I choose not to eat such and such” weight-loss program, is putting you in control, not the food. If you tell Kelly Buchanan says she yourself you can’t have something, you are not isn’t seeing overnight results any more, but she in control — you are, putting it simply, punishing feels better … and looks better. yourself. “The first month, I was really gung ho and I 2. Set the goals small, day by day, week by saw a huge, drastic change right away,” says week, so you don’t feel defeated right off the bat. Buchanan, who has been working with Carol Each day, choose to make it better than the last. Schmitz, a personal wellness coach from CL 3. Keep healthy snacks available — cheese Nutrition in Crystal Lake. “Going into the second sticks, protein bars (no more than 150 calories), month, it has been harder.” Buchanan hasn’t necessarily followed a specific Greek yogurt, almonds. The Boy Scout motto of “Be Prepared” has saved many a person from the diet, she says, but she’s continued to make small grips of high-calorie junk food moments. changes in her lifestyle. She keeps water and 4. Make sure you have water available to healthy snacks with her at all times — including drink. People not only confuse hunger with thirst, in her car and at her desk at work — and she but most Americans are chronically dehydrated, tracks the foods she has been eating. and your body doesn’t work for you if you are “I haven’t lost weight as rapidly, but I can feel dehydrated. the difference in my clothing,” she says. “I’m a 5. If you are bored, don’t eat! Get up and smaller size, and my clothes fit better.” take a walk around the office; make an excuse to In the last two months, Buchanan has lost six go to the restroom. If you can grab 10 minutes, and a half pounds. Her goal is to lose 12. take a brisk walk outside. Boredom is a trap for While she has increased her trips to the gym your mind, hands and stomach. Choose not to let since she started her weight-loss program, that’s boredom control your appetite. her next goal — to really amp up her exercise 6. Track your food. If you write it down program. (calories, carbohydrates, protein, fats), you’ll And she has been following the advice of know if you did yourself a favor or threw yourself Schmitz, who put together the following list of under the bus. ways to stay on the right path toward healthy 7. Use a smaller plate. Those dinner plates are living. In particular, Buchanan has found that huge, and portion size is so important! setting small goals, keeping protein bars in her 8. Speaking of portion size, invest in a food purse and eating from a smaller plate has helped scale and weigh your portions. It can surprise you her immensely, she says. in terms of what you thought was the right size and may actually be two or more portions. Tips to STAY on your path to a 9. Find a buddy to “play” with. Exercising healthy weight and lifestyle with someone can be more fun. Or, just put in — Carol Schmitz of CL Nutrition your calendar that you will exercise every other 1. Staying positive and focused means you day at a specific time. need to have a goal and a reason. 10. Learn about the foods you eat. Read the a. Remember your reason for wanting to get to a healthy weight (for example, to be around for nutrition facts and the ingredients. It’s going into your body, and you are what you eat! your grandchildren). b. Then, every day, tell yourself you will — Stephanie N. Grimoldby

“I know why I shouldn’t eat certain foods and what they do to my body and how they make me feel,” she says. “I’m more aware of what goes into my mouth.” One thing Bathauer has learned is to not sweat the small stuff. In the past, she says one bad day would turn into a string of bad days, even bad weeks. She just shakes it off now and vows to try harder the next day.

Howard Eady, 63, Lake in the Hills

Ahh, the holidays! Many people gain a little weight over the holidays, and Howard Eady is one of them. He couldn’t say no to the Christmas cookies or the pineapple upside-down cake, which resulted in a few pounds around his middle. But now that the holidays are over, Eady is getting

back to his regular routine and not letting a few pounds get him down. Last summer, Eady retired after 41 years as a Metra train conductor. He has many plans for his retirement years, but getting healthy and fit again is at the top of his list. After spending the month of July in 2012 celebrating his retirement, Eady joined Centegra Health Bridge in Huntley in August. He has lost some weight since that time, but weight loss isn’t one of his goals. His goals are to lead a healthy life, build definition, get stronger and have more energy. Eady doesn’t focus on the number on the scale. “I focus on how I feel and look,” he says. “I have more definition in my arms. I want to focus on my stomach and lose two to three inches over the next year.”

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Although the holidays caused Eady to gain a few pounds — before the holidays he was 160 and he now weighs around 163 — he isn’t going to let it ruin the progress he’s made since last summer or his motivation for going to the gym. One thing that really keeps Eady going is his family’s health history — four of his brothers have died of heart attacks. Eady doesn’t want that to happen to him, and if there’s anything he can do to prevent that same fate, he’s going to do it. “I can’t stay young forever, but I can try to grow old in a healthy way,” Eady says. Eady looks forward to his workouts at Centegra Health Bridge, where he goes about three times a week. His 16-year-old son, Justin, usually accompanies him, and the father and son enjoy lifting weights together. Eady goes on the elliptical trainer to build stamina, but what he really loves to do at Centegra Health Bridge is participate in group fitness classes. One of his favorites is a danceaerobics class called Sh’Bam. He also enjoys one called Bodyjam, a dance-inspired cardio workout; a class called Bodypump, a totalbody strength training class using barbells and weighted plates; and a class called Bodystep, a high-intensity athletic workout. All classes are about an hour long. “These classes really get my heart pumping,” Eady says. As for his diet, Eady says he and his family are trying to eat as healthy as they can. He says they are cutting down on foods like pizza. mc

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5 Bathauer says some months she may not lose weight, but she gains muscle and loses inches.

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health

I By COLLEEN LEONARD

3 Kara Ungaro has two sons, Carter, 5, and Bennett, 3. Photos provided

From Hope Comes LOVE Like many women who have experienced infertility, Kara Ungaro felt isolated and guilt-ridden. “People [going through infertility] feel shame and guilt,” Ungaro says. “You shouldn’t, but you do feel that way.” To find answers, the 34-year-old and her husband, Derric, went to the Advanced Fertility Center of Chicago, based in Crystal Lake and Gurnee. Her doctor recommended in vitro fertilization. As part of IVF, a woman takes medication to stimulate her ovaries for egg production. Then, the best eggs and sperm are fertilized in a laboratory and the embryo is transferred to the mother’s womb. But Ungaro’s first two IVF cycles resulted in miscarriages. After undergoing tests, doctors determined that she had a blood clotting disorder that caused complications. Ungaro also suffers from endometriosis, a condition where tissue from the inner lining of the uterus appears elsewhere in the body, such as the ovaries and pelvic area. The disease causes scar tissue, which can lead to pelvic pain and infertility, though Ungaro says she doesn’t know whether endometriosis interfered with her pregnancies. On a third IVF attempt, she was given a blood thinner to control the clotting disorder and her pregnancy was successful. In 2007, she

58 McHenry County Magazine • February 2013

gave birth to her son, Carter. Two years later, Ungaro was able to get pregnant naturally with her second son, Bennett, and used a blood thinner again during pregnancy. The Woodstock couple’s sons are now 3 and 5. “Every day, I just thank God for them,” Ungaro says, who works part time as a hair stylist so she can stay home and help raise her children. “They’re definitely a gift.” 6 Carter and Bennett Ungaro are described as “a gift” by their mother, Kara.

Thoughts from the mothers

Ungaro takes aspirin daily to control her clotting disorder. She also began a diet and exercise routine since discovering last year that she is allergic to gluten, corn and dairy products. After losing feeling in her legs and left arm, she went to the emergency room and ended up getting answers from holistic doctors. She now controls her allergies by excluding grains, sugar and dairy products from her diet. For exercise, she runs three miles four times a week. “I live very holistically now. I’m allergic to lots of food, so I’m on a really strict diet,” Ungaro says. “It is totally taking my symptoms of endometriosis away.” Ungaro recommends that family and friends offer support to someone experiencing infertility by just listening instead of giving advice. “It’s just so important to be supportive to people going through it and also to not ask questions, to let them share what they feel comfortable sharing because it’s such a private issue,” Ungaro says. At the Advanced Fertility Center, she received help from Dr. Richard Sherbahn, a reproductive endocrinologist who designed a treatment plan specifically for her needs. “Look for people [at a fertility clinic] who are willing to spend time with you, to listen to how you’re feeling,” Ungaro says. Kim Rosen of Cary is an example of someone who had difficulty getting pregnant because of endometriosis. McHenryCountyMagazine.com

“I had endometriosis for years and knew that we couldn’t get pregnant on our own,” says Rosen, who has undergone several surgeries for the disease to remove scar tissue. The 37-year-old, an export customer service representative, has been married to her husband, Dave, for two years and is in her fifth month of pregnancy as a result of IVF. Rosen received treatment from Dr. Laurence Jacobs, a reproductive endocrinologist who runs the Crystal Lake and Lake Bluff offices of Fertility Centers of Illinois. IVF was canceled twice because her ovaries didn’t respond to medication. On a third attempt, however, she was pregnant.

4 Kara and Derric Ungaro are pictured with their sons Carter and Bennett. The couple used in vitro fertilization to conceive their first child, Carter.

Thoughts from the experts

McHenryCountyMagazine.com

LEARN MORE Advanced Fertility Center of Chicago, advancedfertility.com American Fertility Association, theafa.org American Society for Reproductive Medicine, asrm.org Fertility Centers of Illinois, fcionline.com or infertilitydoc.net Resolve, a nonprofit organization that promotes reproductive health and provides support groups, resolve.org Society for Assisted Reproductive Technology, which provides local success rate reports on in vitro fertilization, sart.org

Cynthia Brown Komarek, CRPC® First Vice President – Investments Cynthia Brown Komarek has been dedicated to helping her clients manage their investments 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.

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Infertility affects 10 to 15 percent of couples in the U.S., according to Mayo Clinic, a nonprofit medical practice that specializes in medical care, research and education. Most couples receive IVF or intrauterine insemination — placing sperm in the uterus with a catheter — at Fertility Centers of Illinois, Jacobs says. Local fertility clinics report that intrauterine insemination costs $1,000 to $1,500, compared with $10,000 to $12,000 for an IVF attempt. Egg retrieval, embryo transfers, frequent monitoring, lab fees, blood tests, ultrasounds and medications contribute to the IVF cost, Jacobs says. Most IVF programs allow women up to age 45 to use their own eggs, he says. Because the prognosis is poor for women between 45 and 50, he recommends using donor eggs. Older women are at a higher risk of complications, such as chromosome abnormalities, gestational diabetes, hypertension and preeclampsia, a serious condition that causes high blood pressure and a high level of protein in the mother’s urine during pregnancy. In some cases, women just need to take a fertility drug, such as Clomid, to get pregnant, doctors say. These drugs increase hormones to produce mature follicles for egg development. A recent advancement in the field to increase success rates is preimplantation genetic testing. An embryo biopsy is done to screen for chromosome abnormalities, such as Down syndrome, says Sherbahn, program director of the Advanced Fertility Center of Chicago. However, many couples don’t opt for this test because it costs $4,000, Sherbahn says. Doctors have noticed higher success rates for IVF and egg donations in recent years because of improved lab techniques. For instance, the freezing process to preserve embryos and eggs has significantly improved, Jacobs says. “More and more is learned about how to give the embryos the healthiest environment in the laboratory,” Sherbahn says. “And this ends up yielding higher embryo quality and therefore embryos with a better chance to implant to make a healthier baby.” mc

February 2013 • McHenry County Magazine

Why Haven’t Neuropathy Suffers Been Told These Facts? Do you have any of the following symptoms?

• Pins and needles feeling • Numbness in the hands or feet • Tingling or burning sensations • Weakness in the arms or legs • Sharp shooting or burning pains

If so, you may have a condition called peripheral neuropathy.

The Neuropathy Association.

Myth #3: Believing Numbness and Tingling will go away on it’s own.

Peripheral neuropathy, or “nerve damage,” is one of the most chronic conditions in the U.S., affecting over 20 million Americans. Neuropathy results from injury to the nerves in the arms and legs. This disrupts the body’s ability to communicate with its muscles, organs and tissues. Most people don’t recognize neuropathy’s symptoms, which are: • Pins and needles feeling • Numbness in the hands or feet • Tingling or burning sensations • Weakness in the arms or legs • Sharp shooting or burning pains These annoying problems may come and go... interrupt your sleep...or even make your arm or legs feel weak at times. But even if you’ve had neuropathy symptoms for a while, there are 3 common myths I often see with this condition.

Myth #1: Thinking More Pills Are The Only Solution A common treatment for many nerve problems is the ‘take some pills and wait and see’ method. While this may be necessary for temporary relief of severe symptoms, using them long term is no way to live. Some of the more common drugs given include pain pills, anti-seizure mediations, and antidepressants -- all of which have serious side effects. Why not look for a drugless solution instead of just covering over the pain?

Myth #2: Assuming Neuropathy is Only Found in Diabetic People

Diabetic patients are not the only group to suffer with this condition. Actually more neuropathy sufferers are non-diabetic than are, according to a recent 2009 study. Here’s what the study, done by The Neuropathy Association, revealed... “Neuropathy is often misrepresented as only being diabetes-related. However, this survey demonstrates that for every diabetic neuropathy patient, there are at least six more patients suffering with various neuropathies...” - Dr. Thomas H. Brannagan, III, medical advisor for

One of the biggest myths people believe about their numbness, tingling, and pain is that it goes away all by itself... without any treatment. But a study on back pain in the British Medical Journal proved this myth false, showing that 75% of back pain sufferers who do nothing about it will have either pain or disability 12 months later. Let’s face it, your neuropathy symptoms haven’t gone away by now, it’s not likely they will disappear on their own. And it’s been shown in studies that if ignored, symptoms can intensify causing loss of sensation, unremitting pain, and even disability.

Neuropathy Treatment System Relieves Numbness & Pain

Fortunately, if you are suffering from any neuropathy pain, numbness or tingling, your symptoms may be relieved or eliminated by a new treatment. A new proven peripheral neuropathy treatment has been developed by a leading medical device inventor. The system helps the natural nerve pathways between your spine and feet (or hands) and can make your nerves functioning again. Just listen to what this new technology can do... Before each impulse is sent, it analyzes the waveform of your nerves, determines any abnormalities, creates the unique healing signal necessary, administers it, and then re-evaluates the result. This process happens 7.83 times every second or the 30 minute treatment.

symptoms…(NOTE: These would normally cost you at least $100). A thorough analysis of all your ﬁndings so we can start mapping out your plan to being pain free. Act now this offer is only good for the next 14 days so you can get everything I’ve listed here for $47. The normal price for this type of evaluation including x-rays is $250, so you’re saving a considerable amount by taking me up on this offer. Call 815-407-7679 now. We can get you scheduled for your Neuropathy Evaluation as soon as there’s an opening in our schedule.

What Other Professionals are saying about this program.

”The ReBuilder has helped our patients who have painful side effects from chemotherapy neuropathy so much...” -Cancer Treatment Centers of America. ”Previously, treating peripheral neuropathy patients hasn’t been really successful...but I’ve never seen resolutions like we’re seeing in these cases.” John P. Hayes, Jr., DC, DABCO Author- “Beating Neuropathy”

Find Out If We Can Help Your Neuropathy.

While we cannot accept every case that walks into our ofﬁce, if you’re suffering with neuropathy there is a good chance you can be helped by this treatment. To ﬁnd out if this treatment solution could be the answer to your neuropathy condition give us a call to see if we can help you. Take advantage of our New Patient Special with a $47. Call 815-407-7679 to schedule your neuropathy evaluation.

Will It Work For You?

It’s time for you to ﬁnd out if this new treatment will be your neuropathy solution. Use our new patient special on page 4 so you can get a neuropathy evaluation to determine if you qualify for this new treatment!

What does this offer include?

Everything. Take a look at what you will receive: An in-depth consultation about your health and well-being where we will listen…really listen… to the details of your case. A complete neuropathy evaluation. Two specialized x-rays to determine if a spinal problem is contributing to your pain or

There’s a NEW Drugless Solution Helping Neuropathy Sufferers.

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health

Healthy Hearts What says love more than chocolate?

Kristina Kubik, Crystal Lake health cook and baking blogger at Whippedbaking.com, created Chocolate Raspberry Heart Cakes that not only say “I love you,” but “I want you to stay healthy.” The lowfat, heart-shaped cakes use yogurt as a substitute for the oil that normal cakes would use. “Instead of regular chocolate, I used cocoa powder,” Kubik adds. “You still get the real chocolate flavor without all the extra fat. It tastes great in a cake and in the ganache flavoring over it.” Ganache is a glaze placed on a warm cake. When it cools, the topping thickens. While Kubik likes to use Williams-Sonoma’s cocoa powder, any brands are fine. The yogurt — taking the place of shortening or butter — keeps the cake moist and dense. If you or your loved one is lactose intolerant, you can make the cake completely dairy-free by using light, unsweetened soy milk instead of skim milk in the ganache. If you don’t have a heart-shaped cookie cutter, you can use a square pan and cut triangles after the cake is finished, or simply use a different shape. The raspberry filling can be substituted with any other fruit filling such as strawberry or with 100 percent fruit jams that have no sugar at all. “This is a very decadent, rich cake,” Kubik says. “It feels like you are indulging. It’s not something you would have all the time, so that’s what makes it special.” The recipe makes about six heart cakes, so you can share with others. It has

By Lee Nelson Photos by HEATHER NELSON

LOWFAT RECIPE OF THE MONTH This three-month health series will enlist the expertise of WhippedBaking.com blogger Kristina Kubik of Crystal Lake. She will provide a lowfat recipe for McHenry County residents to try at home.

only 346 calories a serving with 11 grams of fat. Kubik, 25, started her blog about healthy cooking about a year ago. She became interested in health cooking while a student at the University of Illinois.

Chocolate Raspberry Heart Cakes Yields 6 to 7 individual heart cakes

Cakes can be made one day in advance and stored in an airtight container at room temperature. Just having dessert for two? Leftover cake can be frozen up to one month in the freezer.

Cake 1 cup unbleached all purpose flour 3/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons sugar 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder 1 teaspoon baking soda 1/8 teaspoon salt 1/2 cup water 1/2 cup plus 1 tablespoon plain nonfat yogurt 3 tablespoons vegetable oil 1/4 cup plus 2 tablespoons egg substitute (Egg Beaters) 3-inch heart shaped cookie cutter

Fresh raspberries for garnish Chocolate Ganache 1/2 cup granulated sugar 1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder 1/3 cup light unsweetened soymilk (or nonfat dairy milk) 4 ounces semisweet chocolate, finely chopped Raspberry Filling 3 tablespoons raspberry jam

Preparation

Cake 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees and lightly grease a 9-inch round cake pan with cooking spray. 2. Sift together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking soda and salt in a large bowl. 3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the water, yogurt, oil and egg substitute. Pour wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and whisk to combine. 4. Carefully pour batter into prepared pan and bake 30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cake comes out clean. Cool completely. 5. Using a 3-inch heart-shaped cookie cutter, carefully cut out hearts, trying to cut the hearts as close together as possible to yield 6 to 7 hearts. Slice the cut out hearts in half horizontally with a serrated knife to form two layers, top and bottom. 6. Spread about ½ tablespoon of the raspberry jam on the top of the bottom layer of each cut out heart (if 6 hearts were cut, six bottoms should be spread with jam). Place the top layer on the bottom to form mini heat layer cakes. Chocolate Ganache 1. Combine sugar, cocoa powder and soymilk in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously until the mixture just begins to boil. Remove from heat and whisk in chopped chocolate until smooth. 2. Working quickly so the chocolate does not harden, carefully pour the ganache evenly over each of the heart cakes. Smooth the edges with a butter knife. Let cakes sit for at least 25 minutes or until the ganache is set. 3. Garnish with fresh raspberries. mc Nutrition information (for one heart cake): calories, 346; fat, 11 grams

health

Pain Unseen I

magine waking up to start your day feeling exhausted. The burning muscle, tendon and joint pain begins along with your heightened sensitivity to cold and bright lights. As if that weren’t enough, you didn’t actually sleep last night, and you have come to expect to battle constipation or diarrhea and possibly a migraine sometime throughout the day — if not all day. It’s no wonder that individuals that suffer from fibromyalgia end up with depression, stress and anxiety.

the joints are not affected, the pain may feel like it is coming from the joints. For some patients, pain improves during the day and gets worse at night. Some patients have pain all day long. Pain may get worse with activity, cold or damp weather, anxiety and stress.

Symptoms

While pain is the main symptom of fibromyalgia, fatigue, depressed mood and sleep problems are seen in almost all patients with the disorder. Many say that they can’t get to sleep or stay asleep, and they feel tired when they wake up. Sufferers of fibromyalgia may also experience: • Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) • Memory and concentration problems • Numbness and tingling in hands and feet • Reduced ability to exercise • Temporomandibular joint discomfort (TMJ) • Tension or migraine headaches • Reduced libido Painful areas are called tender points. Tender points are found in the soft tissue on the back of the neck, shoulders, chest, lower back, hips, shins, elbows and knees. The pain then spreads out from these areas. The pain may feel like a deep ache or a shooting, burning pain. While

5 Water aerobics, yoga, relaxation techniques and chiropractic adjustments are just some of the natural and effective treatments for fibromyalgia.

Diagnosis and incidence Millions of people suffer from fibromyalgia, the majority being women between the ages of 20 to 50. No one knows what causes it and why more women than men suffer from it. The condition also is known as fibromyositis. Since there isn’t a clinical diagnosis for fibromyalgia, it must be diagnosed through a comprehensive consultation to understand a person’s health history. Blood and urine tests are usually normal. However, tests may be done to rule out other conditions that may have similar symptoms. The condition is often mis-diagnosed as: • The result of physical or emotional trauma • A side effect of a viral infection • Chronic neck or back pain • Chronic fatigue syndrome • Depression • Hypothyroidism • Lyme disease • Sleep apnea To be diagnosed with fibromyalgia, you must have had at least three months of widespread pain, plus pain and tenderness in multiple areas of the body, including: • Arms (elbows) • Buttocks • Chest • Knees • Lower back • Neck • Rib cage • Shoulders • Thighs

Treatment

The primary treatment goals for fibromyalgia patients are: a. to relieve pain b. improve sleep and

c. cope with remaining symptoms Since reducing the pain will typically help reduce stress levels, a patient may sleep better once his or her pain is managed. Natural and effective treatment approaches include: • Physical therapy • Chiropractic adjustments • Water aerobics or yoga • Specialized massage • Relaxation techniques, including meditation These methods may seem impossible, given the pain and sensitivity of the body. However, fibromyalgia patients who received 30-minute massages twice weekly for five weeks slept longer with decreased restlessness during the night and suffered less anxiety and depression, according to a 2002 study at the University of Miami School of Medicine. My patients have discovered pain relief without medication through repeated, gentle adjustments to any fixated part of the spine to reduce the irritability of trigger points in muscles innervated by that part of the spine. Yoga and water aerobics both increase range of motion and flexibility as well as reduces stress. Traditional medicine treats fibromyalgia through pharmaceuticals such as anti-seizure medications, anti-depressants, muscle relaxants, sleeping aids and pain relievers. These strong medicines may supply temporary relief, but they carry significant side affects. Cognitive-behavioral therapy is an important part of treatment. This therapy helps you learn how to: • Deal with negative thoughts • Keep a diary of pain and symptoms to help recognize symptom triggers, timing or severity • Seek out enjoyable activities Strelcheck fibromyalgia patients also benefit from: • Avoidance of caffeine • A consistent sleep routine • Nutritional supplements • A wellbalanced diet. A good way to start identifying the foods that may aggravate your symptoms is to keep a daily food journal for a few weeks, writing down the foods eaten and whether symptoms like headaches, indigestion or fatigue follow consumption. If so, eliminate that food for six weeks and decide if there is a benefit.

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Prognosis

Fibromyalgia is generally considered a chronic or life-long disorder. The treatment and efficacy of that treatment will more than likely change over time. mc

Vital Signs with Dr. Daniel Strelcheck Jr.

What’s important to me is giving them what they need. What’s important to you? Alice, Alex, and Emmie

WATCH MY VIDEO • Dr. Daniel V. Strelcheck Jr. is the chief of staff at Strelcheck Chiropractic Clinic in Crystal Lake. Feel Great Again! Go to www.strelcheckchiro.com. McHenryCountyMagazine.com

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February 2013 • McHenry County Magazine

fashion & beauty

EMBRACE the funk As winter lingers on, many women may find themselves in a funk — including a fashion funk. One fun and inexpensive way to spruce up a gloomy mood could be to add a pop of color, a fun design, a chunky ring or sparkly bangle. Bracelets and rings are baubles that can define a woman as a true fashionista, fashion experts say. “Whether you’re adding a sweet final touch to an outfit with a dainty bangle or making a statement with a chunky cocktail ring, these jewelry add-ons will send a clear message about your personal style and what being a ‘fashionista’ means to you,” says Lori Vincent, trend director at Charming Charlie. Kim Dimarzio, accessories buyer for Discovery Clothing Co., says if a bracelet or ring — chunky or simple — is right for you, “It speaks to you.” “There is no explanation for it,” she says. “If fashion is what you buy, then style is what you do with it. So, choose the pieces that stand out to you and speak to you in a special way, and style it your own way.” The two experts offer a few easy and fashionable ring and bracelet suggestions to complete most any outfit.

Bring on color Both Vincent and Dimarzio say color will play a large role in the forecasted fashion trends this year. “The year will start off with a palette of pretty, feminine pastels before transitioning into a trend of bold black and white geometric and graphic patterns,” Vincent says. “Leading into summer, we’ll see much livelier colors in brights, with key shades from the orange/persimmon family, royal and inky blues and a range of exotic colors. “Perhaps the biggest color trend of 2013 is the recently announced Pantone Color of the Year, emerald green.” Dimarzio agrees that pastels will be popular. In fact, she says it will be “the biggest trend this year,” specifically listing sorbet pastel colors such as pink, peach and aqua.

I By AMANDA MARRAZZO

She says mint is on track to be the most dominant color emerging in accessories such as rings and bracelets, and adds that spring 2013 also will mark the comeback of rose gold, especially in bracelet and watch embellishment. “It is definitely a hot accessories trend to watch,” she says.

says. Dimarzio says that matching rings and bracelets can be tricky. “We should choose pieces that complement each other while giving the outfit that extra pop instead of competing with what you are wearing,” Dimarzio says. “For example, a statement necklace or bracelet is best for a simple outfit. Since the star of the look is the bracelet, everything else should be kept to a minimum, such as smaller earrings and rings in complementary colors.” Is it OK to wear more than one large chunky ring or bracelet at the same time on the same hand? Vincent says “absolutely.” “When mixing rings and bracelets, forget the Stack your jewelry ‘less is more’ thinking,” she says. “Nowadays, the more you stack your jewelry, the better. Create When choosing ring and bracelet sets for an your own unique look by stacking different colored outfit, it’s best to either work tonally, with the same bangles and rings in a mix of sizes and metals. Yes, color family of an outfit, or with contrasting colors that will really pop against the outfit, Vincent says. it is absolutely acceptable to wear more than one chunky ring on one hand, or both.” “The most important thing to remember Dimarzio says it’s all about putting together whenever you’re styling an outfit for yourself is pieces that enhance each other. to wear what you feel comfortable in and let your “There’s no limitation in terms of how many individual personality shine through,” Vincent bracelets or rings you can pair together as long as it is done in a smart way,” she says “One of my favorite trends is to wear multiple metal chunky 3 “A statement necklace bracelets and rings together. The or bracelet is best for a key to mixing is incorporating simple outfit,” says Kim different tones of metal such Dimarzio, accessories buyer as gold rose, bronze, silver and for Discovery Clothing Co. gold — this creates a playful Photo provided by Discovery visual combination. Moreover, this Clothing Co. allows you to create your own look by adding or removing different pieces, creating fresh new looks for every outfit.”

3 The year will start off with a palette of pretty, feminine pastels, says Lori Vincent, trend director at Charming Charlie. Photo provided by Charming Charlie

says. “Even just a touch of shine will brighten up an ordinary outfit.” Accessories allow women to put a personal touch on their look, which enables them to alter any outfit in a hassle-free and affordable way, Vincent says. “Accessories have the power to translate your mood into your style for the day, whether it be a statement or professional look,” she says. “For instance, you can take an understated outfit of a simple black shift dress and black pumps and instantly amp this up to an edgy look by adding one statement piece such as an oversized turquoise cocktail ring.” Women should just make sure to choose pieces that reflect who they are, Dimarzio says. “A woman should think of what her style is, what makes her feel confident and what she wants to highlight when accessorizing,” Dimarzio says. “A lot of people style themselves based on what is trendy and what everyone else is liking instead of thinking about what works best for them. I think no matter who you are and what you do, you should just find that one trend that matches your personal style and try to make it work. Choose that special bracelet or ring, and build your outfit around that piece. Let your accessories reflect your inner fashionista.” mc

Experiment with materials What are the materials in rings and bracelets for 2013? For spring 2013, plan on seeing quite a few interesting bracelets and rings with plastic finishes. “Plastic even replaces the main component of the piece sometimes like gem stones or beading,” Dimarzio says, adding that combined with spring’s vibrant colors, rings and bracelets made with these materials “bring a very youthful and whimsical dimension to your accessories.” Vincent also expects to see a variety of clear and Lucite pieces as well as colored stones and gems through the fall, but there are other trends to consider. “Over the summer, there will be more of a Bohemian feel, with beads mixed with woods or leather,” Vincent says. Plus, expect to be wearing rings and bracelets made from metals, such as gold, silver, anthracite and rose gold, she says, and feel confident to mix all of these metals 4 Glittery and sparkly together in different jewelry accessories are — and pieces as well. will always be — any girl's Dimarzio says in fashion best friend, according to accessories, some Dimarzio. Photo provided materials are a mainstay. by Charming Charlie “First of all, glittery and sparkly accessories are — and will always be — any girl’s best friends,” Dimarzio

LOCATIONS NEAR YOU Charming Charlie www.charmingcharlie.com

Algonquin — Algonquin Commons, 2120 S. Randall Road, 847-658-2171

Discovery Clothing Co. www.discoveryclothing.com

Algonquin — 1802 S. Randall Road, 847-854-2222

McHenry — 2902 Commerce Drive, 815-385-0077

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68 McHenry County Magazine • February 2013

out & about

February Events In McHenry County ARTS

Feb. 1 through 16 — “Company,” at Raue Center for the Arts, 26 N. Williams St., in Crystal Lake This six-time Tony winner comes to Raue Center under the direction of Richard Kuranda just in time for Valentine’s Day and features the unforgettable music and lyrics of Stephen Sondheim! The romantic musical comedy will be performed by the Williams Street Repertory. For show times, tickets or more information, call 815-356-9212 or visit rauecenter.org. Feb. 2 — Loudon Wainwright III, 8 p.m. at the Woodstock Opera House, 121 W. Van Buren St., in Woodstock Loudon Wainwright III is a Grammy Award-winning songwriter, folk singer, humorist and actor who came to fame when “Dead Skunk” became a top 20 hit in 1972. Tickets are $28. For tickets or more information, call 815338-5300 or visit www.woodstockoperahouse.com. Feb. 5 — “Walk On: The Story of Rosa Parks,” 12:15 p.m. at Raue Center for the Arts, 26 N. Williams St., in Crystal Lake It’s the unforgettable telling of the story of Rosa Parks, a black woman who refused to give up her seat on a city bus and created an uproar that launched the Civil Rights movement, changing the country forever. Adult tickets are $20 and student tickets are $10. For tickets or more information, call 815-356-9212 or visit rauecenter.org. Feb. 9 — A Tribute to The Who, 7 p.m. at the Woodstock Opera House, 121 W. Van Buren St., in Woodstock “The Who Show” has been hailed by the Los Angeles Times as being “in a class by themselves.” The band will perform hits including “My Generation,” “Pinball Wizard,” “Behind Blue Eyes,” “You Better You Bet” and “Won’t Get Fooled Again” as well as many other classic rock anthems, all captured in an exhilarating, energy-packed stage show. Tickets are $38. For tickets or more information, call 815338-5300 or visit www.woodstockoperahouse.com. Feb. 16 — A Tribute to Creedence Clearwater Revival, 7 p.m. at the Woodstock Opera House, 121 W. Van Buren St., in Woodstock The music of Creedence Clearwater Revival remains a staple of American classic rock. CCR has sold 26 million albums in the U.S. alone, and in 1993 the band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Lead vocalist Rich Perez’s powerful vocals will have audiences thinking he is channeling the spirit and intensity of John Fogarty. Tickets are $38. For tickets or more information, call 815-338-5300 or visit www.woodstockoperahouse.com. Feb. 23 — An Evening of Percussion, 7 p.m. at Raue Center for the Arts, 26 N. Williams St., in Crystal Lake Packed with energy and excitement, this event will feature performances by the Crystal Lake Strikers All-Star Drumline comprised of adult drummers as well as talented high school drummers from the community. For more information, call 815-356-9212 or visit rauecenter.org. Feb. 23 — Band Together Music Fest, 5 p.m. at the Wool Street Grill and Sports Bar, 128 Wool St., in Barrington Rock out at this all-ages community concert showcasing the talent of youth and adult musicians affiliated with Barrington District 220 Schools. Celebrate the power of music and community and raise funds to support the Barrington 220 Educational Foundation. Tickets are $10 a person or $30 a family; after 7 p.m., tickets are $25 a person. For more information, call 847-304-0313 or visit 365barrington.net. Feb. 23 and 24 — A Tribute to Buddy Holly, 7 p.m. Saturday and 3 p.m. Sunday at the Woodstock Opera House, 121 W. Van Buren St., in Woodstock Critics everywhere agree that the Johnny Rogers show is the very best Buddy Holly tribute in the world. And that’s

McHenryCountyMagazine.com

just the beginning. Johnny and his band have been endorsed by the Holly family as well as Buddy’s long-time friend and guitarist Tommy Allsup. Tickets are $38. For tickets or more information, call 847-304-0313 or visit 365barrington.net.

EVENTS

Feb. 2 through 22 — Lost Valley Ventures: Sugar Maple Trees, 2 p.m. Saturdays at Glacial Park, 6316 Harts Road, in Ringwood Check out this fun, free activity the whole family can enjoy. Lost Valley Ventures offers a fun family program on Saturdays. This month’s topic will sugar maple trees, and the program will include a nature lesson, game and hike. Programs take place primarily outdoors, so dress for the weather and walking. No registration is required and all ages are welcome. For more information, visit www.mccdistrict. org. Feb. 9 — Mardi Gras, 7 p.m. at Park Place Banquet Facility, 406 W. Woodstock St., in Crystal Lake Wear your costume, mask and beads and bring friends for jambalaya, gumbo, hurricanes and more. Dance to Zydeco Cajun music. The event also will include raffle prizes and a cash bar. For more information, call 815-459-0680 or visit www.clchamber.com. Feb. 9 — Valentine’s Day Stamping with Darla, 10 a.m. at the McHenry Public Library, 809 N. Front St., in McHenry Have fun while making Valentine’s Day cards for your friends and family. This event is for library cardholders only. For more information, call 815-385-0036 or visit www. mchenrylibrary.org. Feb. 9 through 16 — Have a Heart Food Drive, at various Crystal Lake locations In order to combat the local hunger issue, many favorite Crystal Lake downtown merchants will participate in this food drive in order to stock the shelves of the Crystal Lake Food Pantry. For a list of participating businesses where items can be dropped off, visit www.downtowncl.org. Feb. 10 — Zentangle Valentine Hearts, 1:20 p.m. at the Johnsburg Public Library, 3000 N. Johnsburg Road, in Johnsburg Zentangle is a form of doodling that’s fun and relaxing – and produces amazing results. Come learn about Zentangle and make a valentine heart drawing to give as a gift or to keep for yourself. The program will be presented by artist Christine Thornton. All materials will be provided. Registration is required. For more information, call 815-3440077 or visit www.johnsburglibrary.org. Feb. 16 — Daddy Daughter Date Night, 5:30 p.m. at Village Hall, 600 Harvest Gate, in Lake in the Hills Watch out for the bright lights of the paparazzi as couple walk the red carpet! This special night for dads and their little stars will include dinner and dancing, and each lucky little girl will receive a goody bag and a photo. Cost is $35. For more information, visit www.lith.org. Feb. 16 — Dancing through the Decades, 6 p.m. at the Holiday Inn, 800 S. Route 31, in Crystal Lake Don’t miss this fun night out, benefiting Hospice and Palliative Care of Northeastern Illinois. The cost is $95 a person and will include dinner, an open bar, a raffle, a silent auction and a retro candy table. Dress in ’60s, ’70s and ’80s attire and dance the night away with Libido Funk Circus! For tickets or more information, visit www.hospiceanswers.org/ decadesdance. Feb. 21 — Creative Living Series: A Chef’s Journey, 10 a.m. at the Woodstock Opera House, 121 E. Van Buren St., in Woodstock Since catching the eye of a Life magazine photographer while making mud pies at age 6, Gale Gand has gone on to become a James Beard award-winning pastry chef and partner in Tru, which was awarded a Michelin star. Gand also is the host of Food Network’s “Sweet Dreams” and the author of seven cookbooks, including “Chocolate and Vanilla” and “Gale Gand’s Brunch.” Gand will describe how she found success in a man’s field, how it feels to “rub elbows” with celebrities like Emeril Lagasse, Sarah Moulton, Martha Stewart and Julia Child, and why she had to launch her own root beer company. For more information, visit www.woodstockfineartsassociation.org. mc McHenryCountyMagazine.com

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February 2013 • McHenry County Magazine

Date: Wednesday, March 27, 2013

WOMEN’S daring to

live

lead

Time: 11:30 - 1:30 pm

on purpose

Location: Crystal Lake Country Club Price: $35

SAVE THE DATE

POWER luncheon series

Call today to reserve your ticket or table. Limited seating available.

Please join McHenry County women in business for the McHenry County Magazine Women’s Power Luncheon, featuring guest speaker Alice Byrne, ﬁeld senior vice president for the Midwest Region of Allstate Insurance Company. Be purposeful about your future to discover and/or develop your professional and personal leadership skills. Local speakers will inspire you to take on the challenge of leadership and use your best assets to lead others. Panelist will include: Sen. Pamela J. Althoff; Kathleen Caldwell, president, Caldwell Consulting Group, LLC & founder, WHEE Institute (Wealthy, Healthy, Energetic Edge); Appellate Judge, Mary Seminara-Schostok; Dr. Rebecca L. Sherrick, president of Aurora University; and Charie Zanck, chief executive ofﬁcer and vice chairman of American Community Bank. The McHenry County Magazine Power Luncheon Series has been designed to inform, inspire and engage McHenry County area business decision makers and leaders on contemporary business topics. If you are interested in purchasing a ticket or a table, please contact Kelly Buchanan at 815-526-4445. Priority reservations due by March 21, 2013.

Presenting Sponsor

Keynote Sponsor

Major Sponsors

Luncheon Sponsor

artist showcase

Lori Indovina-Valus, McHenry

• “Garden Visitor”

I take many nature photographs of birds, butterflies, flowers, etc., and use them as a resource for my watercolors. For this watercolor, I used a photo of a yellow swallowtail butterfly in my butterfly garden. During these cold weather days, it helps me to remember the joy of spring! “Blue Jay Garden” (inset): For this watercolor I used a photo of my peanut feeder that attracts blue jays. It is situated in my tulip garden. 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.”