Northwest Living- March 2026

One Sweet VILLAGE

Festivals & Fun in Long Grove

The Secret to Great Gift Giving

Break the Car-Buying Stereotype He is Risen! Inside the Easter Story

Cabinets: They’re Not Just for the Kitchen

The Quality Lifestyle Magazine for the Greater Fox Valley

Still Grateful

The holidays are filled with messages of gratitude and thankfulness. But why do we stop there? Why can’t we express a little gratitude in these early days of spring?

Isn’t there a sense of relief and hope on that first warm day in February, when the southern winds blow and we step outside in our light jacket? Isn’t there something gratifying about the glimmer of sunlight that finally greets us after a long day at the office? And what about the first appearance of Robin Red Breast, or a good rainfall to wash away the snow and salt?

This is a season of hope and promise, full of new life and new joys – if we’re willing to see them. Gratitude lies in a thousand small things. It’s the moments we spend together as a family, with game nights and family meals. It’s in sunny days and rainy days and boots full of puddle water. It’s in school sports and playdates in the backyard or the park. It’s in the places we travel and the people we meet along the way.

Why shouldn’t we be thankful throughout the year? After all, we live in a country of prosperity and plenitude – even at our worst, still beyond reach for much of the world. We live in communities rich in amenities, whether you’re looking to shop, or do business or merely raise your family.

Why shouldn’t we be thankful for places like Long Grove, where dedicated citizens fought to preserve their history and their small-town charm? And what about our region’s small-business leaders, the roofers, remodelers, physicians, entertainers and more who make life better in a thousand small ways? How about our churches, which fill us with hope and remind us what it means to be a good neighbor?

Put down your phone, with its scary headlines and endless messages of doom. Look around, smell the fresh air and soak in the many small blessings that make this a great place to live. And then tell me: How can you not feel grateful?

Chris Linden Executive Editor

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Asphalt or Stone Drive? For Some, It’s Both

By Chris Linden, executive editor

With choices like asphalt and durable paver stones, it’s easy to dress up a home’s entrance in a hurry.

Perhaps the easiest place to revitalize a driveway is with a fresh sealcoat. It restores that slate-black appearance to a driveway, and it has other benefits. Because it smooths the surface of asphalt, sealcoat makes the driveway easier to sweep and plow, and it resists things like gas, oil and road salt.

“Best of all, properly sealed asphalt will more than double the life of your pavement,” says Megan Miller, marketing manager for Kaplan Paving, in Ingleside.

Once cracks, ruts and damage place a driveway’s condition beyond repair, it’s time to look at replacement. Traditionally, asphalt and concrete were always top-of-mind, but with recent advancements in asphalt, this

product has risen to the top of many families’ preferences.

Asphalt also tends to be one of the most affordable and cost-effective options in the long run, says Miller.

But asphalt is by no means the only choice. Durable paver stones, like those produced by Unilock, create attractive surfaces on everything from driveways and walkways to retaining walls, pool decks and outdoor kitchens. A homeowner can use them across the whole drive or create a “ribbon” of bricks to frame an asphalt stretch.

What product is right for your home? Miller believes there are several factors to consider when selecting a surface. It starts with budget, durability and design, but it’s also important to consider drainage, timeline and personal preference.

Timing is another important consideration. Kaplan offers significant

discounts when jobs are contracted at the beginning of the season. These may not be available later in the year.

Perhaps the most important factor, though, is whom you hire, because disreputable companies proliferate in this industry. Kaplan Paving has stood by its work since 1979.

“When you hire the right people, you ensure quality workmanship and timely completion on your job,” says Miller.

To schedule a free estimate or learn more about a new driveway, call Kaplan Paving at (847) 500-3488. ❚

He is Risen!

Easter

celebrates the resurrection of Jesus Christ, who was executed by civic and religious leaders in Jerusalem in about 33 A.D. This event opened an era of human history in which eternal life is offered to anyone who believes in Christ Jesus, the Messiah.

“There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” – Galatians 3:28 (NIV)

Easter marks the fulfillment of many Old Testament prophecies, including those by Isaiah, 1,000 years before Christ’s birth. Isaiah said a savior would be born in Bethlehem to a descendant of King David. He would be exalted, beaten and rejected; would be betrayed by a friend for 30 pieces of silver; would be silent before his accusers and would die with no bones broken. He would rise from the dead, in a rich man’s tomb, after three days and nights. These prophecies, and many more, came to pass.

What the prophets did not know was that Christ’s grace would extend to all people of the Earth who believe, not just to Israel. Why didn’t they know it?

Because God didn’t wish to reveal His plan and give Satan/men a chance to foil it.

“None of the rulers of this age understood it, for if they had, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory,” Paul explains in I Corinthians 2:8 (NIV).

Jesus fulfilled Mosaic law and replaced it with a far more powerful law of love and grace. Asked to name the greatest commandments, he said:

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself. All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments.” (Matt. 22:36-40 NIV)

It’s no coincidence that the resurrection of Jesus occurred during Passover, as Jews celebrated their ancestors’ escape from Egypt. The 10th plague was death to a first-born child in each household. Israelites who marked their doorposts with the blood of a spring lamb were “passed over” by death. Jesus is the “lamb of God” who spares us from eternal death. ❚

– Janine Pumilia

Fry Baskets Meet Fairway at PrairieFire

By Steven Bonifazi, assistant editor

The Toptracer driving range behind Byron’s PrairieView Golf Club was built to draw golfers year-round. In meeting that goal, PrairieFire Golf & Grill has become a fan favorite for its grub as much as its golfing bays.

PrairieFire outfits its eight stateof-the-art Toptracer bays with lounge seating, heaters, fire tables and televisions, pairing each bay with an indoor seating area so groups can drift in and out. For dining-only customers, there’s a collection of bar-top seats and tables.

The menu is built around shareables and handhelds. The popular Tavern Mix, for example, is a basket of greatest hits: onion rings, mini tacos, cheese sticks, cheese curds, cheddar potato bites, fried pickles and waffle fries, served with ranch and spicy PrairieFire sauce. The jumbo pretzel, served with beer cheese and Düsseldorf mustard, is equally munchable.

For something a bit heartier, PrairieFire brings the bison, literally, with beercheese bison sliders: a stack of seasoned patties with grilled onions and a blanket of beer cheese.

Wings are another house favorite, caddied with sauces and rubs that range from PrairieFire’s signature blend to Nashville hot – plus a Korean barbecue option. Winter brings its own special addition to the menu: chili inspired by the assistant general manager’s original recipe.

and beginners alike. Corporate outings, birthday parties, bachelor and bachelorette groups, and league golfers all share the same bays and bar.

Behind the bar, PrairieFire rotates craft drafts, often locally sourced; standard domestics are limited to cans and bottles. Seasonal cocktails change throughout the year.

What ties it all together is a cozy atmosphere that brings together golfers

“It’s a great gathering spot, whether golf is your thing or not,” says Scott deOliveira, PrairieFire’s general manager. “Make golf part of your visit and make the most of it.” ❚

PrairieFire Golf & Grill is at 6734 N. German Church Road, in Byron. Reserve a bay at prairiefiregolf.com.

To Find the ‘Best’ Gift, Watch What Inspires

By Peggy Werner

When you’re shopping for a child, it’s important to keep in mind their interests, age and safety.

Lori McConville and Kate Nuhn, a mother-daughter pair who own Marvin’s Toy Store in downtown Crystal Lake, have found that trendy toys don’t always last, but a toy that is well made and adaptable with a child can be enjoyed for a long time.

“When buying for kids, pay attention to what they like,” says Lori. “A good toy is one that holds a child’s attention and stirs the imagination. We want children to have toys that keep inner wonderment alive when they’re at play.”

What constitutes a great toy or gift? For starters, think about some of the things the child enjoys, or else bring them to the store and watch what catches their interest.

At least 80% of the toys at Marvin’s are eco-friendly, designed to get children moving, made with recycled materials, produced by family-owned companies or crafted with allnatural materials; many are made in America.

Some of the most popular toys at Marvin’s are sewing kits, games, and scienceinspired toys, like ones that let you build a roller coaster or make root beer. There are also toys that excite the senses, like slime and putty; the Tonibox uses familiar characters to tell stories and sing songs.

The team at Marvin’s is trained to help a customer narrow their choices and find the perfect gift. In the past 12 years, they’ve inspired wonder in many a young mind.

“All learning starts with being interested and adding an element of fun,” says Lori. “Meet the child at their level of interest and build upon that.”

Marvin’s Toy Store is located at 64A N. Williams St. in downtown Crystal Lake. Find out about upcoming events at marvinstoystore.shop. ❚

Charming Long Grove Sets a Backdrop for Fun

By Peggy Werner

For more than 50 years, the people of Long Grove have pulled together to protect their village’s history. Today, they celebrate their success with family-friendly events and a retail district that entertains and educates visitors from across northern Illinois and beyond.

A stroll through Illinois’ oldest historic district is a welcomed change for those who want a break from the hustle and bustle of city life, says Ryan Messner, president of the village’s Historic Downtown Business Association.

“Long Grove takes you back in time with its small-town village charm, where people aren’t rushing around,” he says. “They come here to slow down, enjoy the unique shopping experience, the historical sites, the parks and other places they can unwind. For some, it brings back childhood memories and others get a chance to see how different things used to be.”

Long Grove is synonymous with tree-lined streets, charming old buildings, locally owned restaurants and specialty shops, but it’s also well known for its iconic covered bridge – one of only two of its kind in the Chicago area. Built 120 years ago, the bridge is now on the National Register of Historic Places.

Historic charm abounds in this downtown, where ordinances dating to the 1950s require new buildings to meet strict codes for style, colors and materials. In the 1970s, residents banded together to preserve some of their town’s oldest buildings, including Drexler Tavern, a one-room schoolhouse and an old farmhouse. The Long Grove Historical Society offers audio walking tours online, at longgrovehistory.org, so visitors can take in the history any time.

For a town that’s so intent on preserving its past, things are constantly changing in Long Grove – which means there’s always something new to discover.

Downtown boasts several blocks of women’s boutiques, treat shops, gift shops and antique stores, in addition to a cigar shop, a year-round Christmas store, an Irish gift shop, items made by North American artisans and the world’s largest sock monkey store. There are also specialty services like photographers, dance studios, real estate firms, builders, remodeling companies, fitness centers and beauty salons. You won’t find chain stores in this quaint, hometown setting.

Nor will you find the same old events. Long Grove hosts several unique festivals throughout the year. Its three biggest are Chocolate Fest in May, Strawberry Fest in June and

Apple Fest in September. Each three-day festival is a sweet tooth’s dream come true, with an assortment of food, drinks and desserts that bring out the flavor of the season. The weekend also brings live music, themed activities, games, arts and crafts, contests, carnival rides and midway games. Local retailers roll out sales and special surprises all weekend.

Chocolate Fest kicks off the festival season May 15-17 with an abundance of decadent treats and entertainment for all ages. Chocolate Fest features an endless array of chocolate-infused foods, drinks and creative desserts, such as chocolate funnel cakes and chocolate-dipped strawberries, chocolate Turon and crispy banana fritters with vanilla ice cream. The lineup also chocolate-covered doughnuts, Oreo cheesecake mini cupcakes, peanut butter balls dipped in chocolate and more surprises around every corner.

One highlight during the weekend is a re-creation of the classic “I Love Lucy” episode featuring the chocolate factory scene, courtesy of Long Grove Confectionery.

Live music fills the air all weekend from the Mill Pond Stage while family acts center around the Fountain Square Stage. Headlining acts set up on the Main Stage. Admission is $7 per day or $15 for a three-day pass. Visit longgrove.org for online tickets and more details.

Next up is Strawberry Fest, this year June 26-28 in downtown Long Grove. Dozens of vendors offer creative berry treats from classic shortcakes and doughnuts to

inventive delights like strawberry popcorn, smoothies, lattes and spritzers. Long Grove’s restaurants, bars and shops also get in on the fun with strawberry-themed specials, sidewalk pop-ups and seasonal cocktails.

Live music plays on multiple stages; you can also find a classic carnival midway, kids’ crafts, live music and the everpopular strawberry pie eating contests. Admission is $7 per day or $15 for a three-day pass. Children 12 and under are admitted free. For tickets and more details, visit longgrove.org.

While Chocolate Fest and Strawberry Fest are certainly the biggest celebrations in Long Grove, the village also rolls out smaller community events during the year, such as a Cocoa Crawl in February, the Bunny Hop and Craft Beer Fest in April, Vintage Days in July, Country Girls Night Out in August, Irish Days in September and a Vintage Holidays celebration in December.

Proceeds from these events help to keep the village looking its best for generations to come.

And the future looks bright. Renovations are being planned for several stores, and there’s a growing number of businesses looking to move to Long Grove.

“The village, business association, historical society and residents are all having conversations about what is right for our village and what’s the next thing we need to do to take our community to the next level,” says Messner.

For more information on shopping and events in the village of Long Grove, check out longgrove.org or call the Historic Downtown Business Association at (847) 634-0888. ❚

It’s Time to Break the Car-Buying Stereotype

By Chris Linden, executive editor

Car buying comes with a certain stereotype: a pushy salesman, high pressure and lots of haggling before we drive off the lot.

That’s just not the way things go at Brilliance Honda, in Crystal Lake. This family-owned dealership has been breaking out of the stereotype for 20 years. The difference lies in the company culture and its emphasis on customer service, says President Kevin Keefe.

“In our opinion, there’s a big difference between selling a car and helping someone to buy a car,” says Keefe. “We like to help people buy cars. Yes, there is a sales environment, but if we can show the value of our product and our people, then customers will want to transact.”

The difference begins long before a customer steps onto the lot. Brilliance Honda displays its wide inventory of new and pre-owned vehicles at brilliancehonda.com, and it couples

that with online purchase options, so you can handle trade-in appraisals, finance applications and the other steps on your own time.

Inside the Crystal Lake showroom, transparency, teamwork and integrity take center stage. People can feel the difference as they walk in, says Keefe. His office is located right off the showroom floor.

“It’s when something doesn’t go well that you earn your reputation, he says. “In my opinion, it’s how we take care of the customer, and if we say something, we’re going to honor it.”

Honda built its reputation on strong engineering and earned a loyal following for generations. It’s the very first car some people own, and it’s often the last brand they’ll seek – not just because of the cars but the people who sold them.

At Brilliance Honda, longtime customers find the same sales and service team members at every visit.

“Relationships are everything,” says Keefe. “We do as much as humanly possible to raise the confidence of the customer and earn their business.”

Brilliance Honda is located at 680 W. Terra Cotta Ave. (Ill. Rt. 176) in Crystal Lake. To schedule a service appointment, call (815) 459-6400. ❚

Wake Up to Adventure at Starved Rock Lodge

By Lyndsey Nguyen, marketing manager, Starved Rock Lodge

Nestled in the heart of Starved Rock State Park near Oglesby, Starved Rock Lodge blends timeless charm and modern comfort. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat, an adventurous weekend or a romantic getaway, this iconic lodge provides an unforgettable experience.

The Lodge’s accommodations capture the natural beauty of the park while ensuring that every guest enjoys a cozy, relaxing stay. From comfortable rooms with scenic views to rustic cabins for couples or families, Starved Rock Lodge is a great home base for anyone who wants to explore the breathtaking sandstone canyons, seasonal waterfalls and many miles of hiking trails that make this park famous.

Dining at Starved Rock Lodge is truly an experience. The Lodge offers locally inspired dishes in a warm, inviting setting for breakfast, lunch and

dinner. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or enjoying a casual meal, it’s always an elevated experience.

Starved Rock Lodge hosts a variety of events throughout the year. Adventure seekers can join guided hikes or the exhilarating Mega Hikes, where they can discover the park’s hidden canyons and waterfalls – all with knowledgeable guides. Nature lovers are thrilled by the Bald Eagle and Wildlife Trolley Tours.

Rewind, where delicious dining meets unforgettable music.

Food lovers savor the Trolley Trio Progressive Dinner, a unique culinary journey that takes guests from Starved Rock Lodge to August Hill and Camp Aramoni. It’s an evening that blends exceptional cuisine with scenic views.

The Lodge also features live tribute shows and nostalgic experiences like the ’90s Sing-Along Dine &

No matter what’s brought you here, Starved Rock Lodge combines the serenity of nature with exceptional hospitality, so that every moment will refresh, inspire and delight.

To discover for yourself why this retreat is a beloved destination, make a reservation by calling (800) 868-7625 or seeing starvedrocklodge.com. ❚

Life Pain Free

Take the Emotion Out of Divorce

By Chris Linden, executive editor

Divorce isn’t something to take lightly. Your children, your assets, your lifestyle are all about to change. That’s scary and stressful for people who are entering this transition.

After two decades of guiding families through a divorce, Michone Riewer knows it’s never easy. But there are ways to make it less emotionally and financially taxing. In fact, Riewer’s family law practice, Strategic Divorce, is based upon her trademarked process. The Strategic Divorce Process is a clear five-step approach that helps clients focus on what matters most in this difficult chapter.

With a team of eight attorneys in Lake, Cook and McHenry counties, Strategic Divorce is built upon a proven strategy to help families reach the most agreeable outcome.

“One of the first questions we ask is this: If we’re sitting here six months from now, what needs to happen for us to be successful?” says Riewer. “Where do you need to be? That’s a scary question for someone going through a divorce, because they don’t necessarily know. And if we can help them see where they want to be, if we can help them see where ‘there’ is, we can help them get there.”

The entire Strategic Divorce Process is built upon a simple principle: It’s in the family’s best interest to approach their case amicably. By contrast, some divorce attorneys prefer to fight tooth and nail. While her attorneys are fully prepared to litigate any matter in court, doing so is not the ideal outcome for anyone, says Riewer.

“We try to explain to our clients that it is extraordinarily expensive to litigate a divorce,” Riewer adds. “It’s expensive financially, it’s expensive time-wise. It’s also emotionally expensive and it’s very taxing on the family.”

Riewer’s trademarked Strategic Divorce Process takes the emotion out of this experience. By following an organized decision-making process, clients can feel more confident and empowered when it comes to their future. Empathy with strength lies at its core.

The Strategic Divorce process follows five steps:

1. Family Decisions. The first step is to figure out who makes decisions for the children. Most of the time, this is a 50-50 split between parents, says Riewer.

2. Visitation for Children. The next step determines where the children will sleep each night of the year and how the family will navigate vacations and holidays.

3. Child Support. Once the decision-making and visitation are settled, a family can decide how the children are supported. State law sets out a certain formula.

4. Spousal Support. The next step is to determine whether, and how much, one parent will support the other. Here, too, state law sets aside a specific formula.

5. Division of Assets. The final step is to divide the couple’s assets and debts, including cars, homes, investment accounts and retirement. This is typically a 50-50 split.

As a family navigates divorce and their new lifestyle, they may need additional legal services, such as estate planning, changes in visitation rights or enforcement. Strategic Divorce can help with these services and with prenuptial agreements or support for unmarried parents.

Riewer got her start in family law nearly 20 years ago. Since founding Strategic Divorce in 2010, Riewer and her team have built a loyal following among men and women who have complex financial situations, such as the owners of small businesses and professional firms.

If you’re contemplating a divorce, Riewer says the smartest move is to reach out for a free consultation. Often, this conversation can help someone to fully understand the implications and complications that come with a divorce.

“Our process gives clients clarity,” she adds. “They understand what comes next, why each step matters, and how today’s decisions affect life after divorce,” says Riewer. “That clarity builds confidence and keeps emotions from driving outcomes. Most importantly, we focus on results that last. Divorce is not the end goal. The goal is helping clients and their children transition into the next chapter of their lives with stability, dignity and a foundation for long-term success.”

Strategic Divorce is located at 900 N. Shore Drive in Lake Bluff. For a free consultation or to learn more, call (847) 234-4445 or visit strategicdivorce.com. ❚

The Right Cabinet Can Fill Many Uses

By Chris Linden, executive editor

Good cabinets aren’t limited to the kitchen or bathroom. Quality cabinetry can serve most any room in your home. All it takes is a little vision.

Cabinetry comes in three types: stock, semicustom and custom. With stock cabinets, you get a set size, style and color. With semicustom and custom, there’s lots of room for variation, which is how you can transform an ordinary cabinet into a dry bar, a wet bar, a built-in bookcase, a credenza, or a furniture-like fixture in your kitchen and bathroom.

“People get scared when they hear the word custom, because they think it’s going to be so expensive,” says Renee Busse, a designer with Advance Design Studio, in Gilberts. “In reality, we can create a custom or semicustom kitchen at not that much more than it would cost for a straight-from-the-box kitchen.”

The best part of customization is that you can make it truly your own. Out of the five cabinet brands Advance Design Studio carries, each one offers variations in wood type, paint or stain, style and size. Some will even match exact colors from Benjamin Moore or Sherwin-Williams.

These cabinet companies also offer a wide variety of accessories and add-ons, from charging stations built into a drawer to pullouts in a corner cabinet. There are systems to store hot curling irons and blow dryers, and there are deep drawers that maximize storage. These companies even make panels that disguise your appliances. Whatever you need, cabinetmakers can match it, down to the inch.

“You reduce the need for fillers and you can optimize your space,” says Busse. “With upper cabinets, we can go right up to the ceiling so you’re not

stuck with 30-inch cabinets and a gap overhead.”

These may seem like small details, but they can make all the difference in meeting a family’s lifestyle.

“There’s no need to be intimidated,” says Busse. “Customizable just means there are more options, not that it’s more expensive.” ❚

Advance Design Studio is located at 30 Railroad St., in Gilberts. For a consultation, call (847) 836-2600.

Rockford Nephrology Associates

Nephrology is the medical specialty that diagnoses and treats diseases of the kidneys. Kidney disease affects one in seven people (approximately 37 million) in the United States and may result from causes such as diabetes, hypertension, polycystic kidney disease, glomerulonephritis, or obstructions of the urinary tract.

The most well-known function of the kidneys is to form urine containing waste from the body, which is the filtration function. Kidneys are also responsible for certain hormone secretion, which can affect the production of red blood cells and promote absorption of calcium. Kidneys also help with fluid and acid-base

RNA Sycamore

2127 Midlands Ct., Ste. 102 Sycamore, Ill.

Dr. Ahmed and Dr. Robertson

Beloit Dialysis Center

Beloit Memorial Hospital

1969 W. Hart Road

Beloit, Wis.

Dr.Ahmad,Dr.Niemiec, Dr. Robertson

Rochelle Specialty Center

900 N. Second St. Rochelle, Ill.

Dr. Ahmed and Dr. Robertson

RNA Dixon

OSF St. Katharine’s Clinic

215 E. First St., Ste. 153 Dixon, Ill.

Dr.Chitrakar,Dr.Murdakes, Dr.Sweeney

balance, blood pressure control and glucose production. Therefore, anemia, high blood pressure, Vitamin D deficiency, and fluid and electrolyte imbalances are also monitored and treated by the nephrology team.

At Rockford Nephrology Associates, nine boardcertified nephrologists and nurse practitioners provide consultative services and follow-up visits which, along with lab and radiology testing, help to diagnose kidney disease and determine the best-quality treatment options. Education is key to understanding the disease and for making treatment choices at each stage.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call Rockford Nephrology at (815) 227-8300. ❚

Cozy Up with a Pearl Couscous Soup

You don’t have to be sick to enjoy the best comfort foods. Skip the same old soups and stews, and level up with pearl couscous.

Distinguished from traditional Moroccan couscous by its larger and rounder shape, plus its less dense, firmer consistency, pearl couscous is thoroughly versatile and a perfect fit for cold-weather classics. With Success Boil-in-Bag Pearl Couscous, you get semolina wheat pearl couscous made just right. After the water boils, it’s ready in under 7 minutes and prepared similarly to pasta.

It features a slightly nutty flavor on its own but can absorb any flavors of soups and salads while retaining its density and chewy texture.

A hearty solution, this Italian Penicillin Soup is ideal for those feeling under the weather or simply craving a filling meal on a chilly day. It’s loaded with rotisserie chicken, tender veggies

and pearl couscous simmered in broth.

Discover more pearl couscous-inspired dinner ideas by visiting SuccessRice.com.

Italian Penicillin Soup

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 15 minutes

2 bags Success Pearl Couscous

4 cups chicken broth

1 cup carrots, sliced

1 cup celery, sliced

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup shredded chicken

1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon pepper

4 lemon wedges

medium-low and cook 5 minutes until vegetables are slightly tender.

shredded Parmesan cheese (garnish) chopped fresh parsley (garnish)

Prepare pearl couscous according to package directions.

In large pot, bring broth to boil. Add carrots, celery and garlic. Reduce heat to

Add rotisserie chicken and Italian seasoning; simmer 5 minutes.

Add pearl couscous and cook 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

Ladle soup into bowls and squeeze fresh lemon wedge into each bowl.

Garnish with Parmesan and parsley. ❚ (Source: Feature Impact)

Your Fun

Rock River Valley Train Show

March 21-22, Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. to 3 p.m. See model railroad equipment and displays. Harlem High School, 9229 N. Alpine Road, Machesney Park, Ill., rrvd-nmra.com.

Farmers Market+ at The Dole

March 22, April 12 & 26, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Activities, local produce, artistic creations. The Dole, 401 Country Club Road, Crystal Lake, (815) 307-4787, farmersmarketatthedole.org.

Lucy’s Comedy

March 27, 8 p.m. Headliner Brian Hicks joins Mike Preston and Brian Williams. Raue Center for the Arts, 26 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake, (815) 356-9212, rauecenter.org.

Woodstock Farmers Market

March 28, April 11 & 25, 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Producers-only market features seasonal produce from local vendors. All Seasons Orchard, 14510 Ill. Rt. 176, Woodstock, (815) 3385315, woodstockfarmersmarket.org.

The Story of Todd School

April 6, 6:30 p.m. Caryl Lemanski shares firsthand experiences. Woodstock Public Library, 414 W. Judd St., Woodstock, (815) 338-0542, woodstockpubliclibrary.org.

Huntley Farmers Market

Entertainment & Events

April 11, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Local vendors bring a wide variety of foods to an indoor setting. American Legion, 11712 Coral St., Huntley, (815) 893-6280, huntley.il.us.

Kane County Flea Market

April 11-12, Sat. noon-5 p.m., Sun. 7 a.m.4 p.m. Hundreds of merchants bring goods. Kane County Fairgrounds, 525 S. Randall Road, St. Charles, kanecountyfleamarket.com.

Beethoven’s 5th

April 11-12, Sat. 7:30 p.m., Sun 2:30 p.m. Features Chad Goodman, conductor; Oliver Herbert, cello. Elgin Symphony Orchestra, Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way, Elgin, (847) 888-4000, elginsymphony.org.

Author Talk with Scott Ellsworth

April 12, 3 p.m. The author of “Midnight on the Potomac” shares stories and research from the Civil War era. Barrington’s White House, 145 W. Main St., Barrington, (224) 512-4066, barringtonswhitehouse.com.

Third Thursdays Art Night Out

April 16, 6-8 p.m. Featured artist is Dan Rigali of Daprato Rigali Studios, an ecclesiastical restoration firm with five generations of

work. Barrington’s White House, 145 W. Main St., Barrington, (224) 512-4066, barringtonswhitehouse.com.

Geneva Coffee Crawl

April 18, all day. Find drinks, specials at 30 shops. Location: Downtown Geneva. Tickets: Geneva Chamber of Commerce, 8 S. 3rd St., Geneva, (630) 232-6060, genevachamber.com.

Civil War Sons

April 19, noon-4 p.m. Learn about the Powers brothers and life in the Union Army. PowersWalker House, Glacial Park Conservation Area, Ill. Rt. 31 & Harts Road, Ringwood, (815) 338-6223, mccdistrict.org.

Spring Shop Crawl

April 25-26, all day. Downtown businesses offer special deals and menu items all weekend. Location: Downtown St. Charles. Info: St. Charles Business Alliance, 2 E. Main St., St. Charles, (630) 443-3967, stcalliance.org.

Rodgers & Hammerstein’s ‘South Pacific’ April 29-June 14, times vary. Set during World War II, the Broadway classic explores romance and the beauty that lies in our differences. Paramount Theatre, 23 E. Galena Blvd., Aurora, (630) 896-6666, paramountaurora.com. ❚

By: QuoctienTrinh

Spring Has Sprung at Countryside

As winter fades and the days grow longer, spring invites us back outside to plant, refresh, and enjoy our spaces again. At Countryside Flower Shop, Nursery & Garden Center, explore hundreds of thousands of lush annuals, perennials, native plants, shrubs, bushes, and trees perfect for porches, patios, and garden beds. Add natives to attract pollinators and hummingbirds while bringing lasting beauty and life to your landscape. Our knowledgeable team is here to make planting simple and enjoyable, and our flower shop offers beautifully handcrafted arrangements for any occasion. Visit us this season and discover fresh inspiration for every outdoor and indoor space.

Spring Container Workshops

Spring is the perfect time to refresh your garden and containers! Join our Customer Container Program to learn hands-on planting tips and create beautiful, seasonal arrangements.

Saturdays in April

Bring Your Pots Back to Life This Spring

Starting April 1 through April 30, our Customer Container Program makes refreshing your outdoor spaces simple and stress-free. Bring in your empty containers from home or select a new one from our greenhouse, choose your plants, and plant them onsite. We’ll provide the soil and care for your containers in our warm greenhouse until the weather is ready, typically in mid-May.

Discover how easy and enjoyable spring planting can be. Join us for free Saturday workshops at 10 AM and 2 PM to learn plant pairings, design tips, and care essentials, or simply explore the program at your own pace.

Morning & afternoon sessions available

Hands-on planting education & design tips

Learn about color combinations, soil care, and container success

To learn more, scan the QR code