Publisher/Editor-in-Chief
Bill
Executive Editor/Web Editor
Chris Linden
Senior Editor Lindsey Lukas
Managing Editor Jim Taylor
Deputy Editor
Steven Bonifazi
Graphics Director
Samantha Behling
Graphic Designers
Olivia Costello, Brandi Fier
Contributing Writers
Stephanie
Grimoldby, Janine Pumilia, Lindsey Nguyen, Peggy Werner
General Sales Manager
Brent Hughes
Sales Manager
Brad Hughes
Advertising
Jeremy Jones, Jessica Greer
Administration & Circulation Manager
Lisa Hughes
story can achieve so much. It’s a tool for teaching, for entertaining, for inspiring. It’s full of qualities that only we humans can grasp.
The pages of this magazine and our sister publication, Northwest Quarterly, are full of stories that inform, inspire and entertain. The amazing thing is they’re completely true, especially our deep dives into local history – and there’s so much of it here in the Greater Fox Valley.
From the Legend of Charlemagne to our modern suburbs, history abounds in this region. We have connections to Abraham Lincoln and the Civil War, Frank Lloyd Wright, even a Viking ship that crossed the Atlantic. We’re the hometown of Olympians and world leaders, and plenty of ordinary people who’ve changed the world.
Given our closeness to Chicago, it’s little surprise our history intertwines with the Windy City, especially with Prohibition. It’s easy to find stories of bootleggers and claims that “Al Capone was here.” Famous names like Dick Tracy, Baby Face Nelson and John Dillinger have cameos, too.
The stories of murder and mayhem –and the brazen, often outlandish level of rule-breaking – are astounding. A farmer finds a dead bootlegger on the side of the road; hundreds gather at the funeral home for a glimpse. People run their state’s attorney out of town. Competing roadhouses call the Feds on each other. All true.
I’ve been collecting these stories across our region, and I’m excited to share them with you soon. Join me at the Geneva Public Library on Aug. 15 or drop by the Geneva History Museum’s Tuesday at Two on Oct. 13 for a fun look at the Prohibition Era. Reserve your spot online at gpld.org and genevahistorymuseum.org.
And if you have a Prohibition story of your own to share, I’d love to hear it. Whether it’s truth or legend, it’s sure to captivate – just as any good story does.
Chris Linden Executive Editor
By Stephanie N. Grimoldby
Primrose Farm in St. Charles is a perfect mix of old and new.
Here, visitors can see, touch and work with a variety of animals housed in an 1859 barn, watered by a fully functioning Batavia Challenge Windmill Co. windmill that still pumps water to the springhouse and stock tank.
“We get a lot of people who come here who say, ‘I’ve been in St. Charles my whole life, and we never knew you were here,” says Alison Jones, manager of farm programs and interpretive services.
For those who do know Primrose Farm, milking a cow or collecting eggs are some of the most popular activities. The all-ages farm hosts hands-on Animal Adventure classes, which also include feeding goats or chickens and working with horses.
But the 100-acre farm has plenty of fun lined up for late summer.
On Aug. 15 – which is National Honey Bee Day –the farm hosts a Bee’s Knees Garden Party for guests 21 and older.
The party takes place from 3 to 5 p.m. Saturday in the garden kitchen, where farm educators lead a talk on pollinators, give tours of the garden and then use farmfresh herbs to create cocktails. The cost is $32 per person.
to the education center and an optional wagon ride.
“I’ve always wanted to do some sort of cocktail class out here, and we really wanted to do it using things we’ve grown from our garden,” says Jones. “Mixology and using edible flowers and plants have become pretty popular. We wanted to tie pollinators into it because we harvest our own honey.”
If you have a birthday coming up, host it at the farm and get a tour, access
“We’ve had adults who have done [a birthday party here] … and it was pretty fun,” Jones says. “A lot of people think of us as a place with activities for just kids, but … we have things for all ages.”
Primrose Farm is located at 5N726 Crane Road, in St. Charles. Learn more at (630) 513-4370 or primrosefarm.org. ❚
Have you ever lost your temper while talking to someone, only to regret it later? Most of us have. It’s very human to indulge our emotions, when restraint would be a wiser, more mature response.
We all want to prove we’re “right,” but if our demeanor is unloving, then being “right” doesn’t matter. The old saying, “They don’t care what you know until they know that you care” is true.
Anyone can hurtfully spew emotions; it takes a real “grown-up” to exercise self-control. The more we mature in Christ, the greater our inner strength becomes. In fact, the ability to be patient, even when others provoke us, is one of the fruits of the spirit listed in Galatians 5:22. In the King James version, the Greek word “makrothumia” is translated “long suffering.” The word’s roots are the adjective makro (long) and verb thumeo (to act with passion, anger.) It’s a word that means the opposite of “shorttempered” and is often used elsewhere in scripture to describe the kind of patience God Himself has exercised toward us.
Paul uses the same word to describe agape, the highest form of love, in I Cor. 13:4-5. “Love is patient (makrothumeo), love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs.”
For Christians who care about the spiritual welfare of other people – including annoying or weak people –this Godly kind of patience is essential. Why? Because we’re to mimic God, who treats each of us with far more patience than we deserve. Out of sheer gratitude, we should treat others likewise.
Paul asks us to do exactly that, in I Thessalonians 5:14: “And we urge you, brothers and sisters, warn those who are idle and disruptive, encourage the disheartened, help the weak, be patient (makrothumeo) with everyone.”
When we condemn others, we ignore the patience God has shown us.
Instead, God’s patience should inspire our patience toward others. It’s not easy, but He gives us the strength to do it anyway. ❚ – Janine Pumilia
By Chris Linden, executive editor
If you’re looking to refresh your kitchen or bathroom before the holidays, it pays to plan ahead.
“We’re passing the point where you can have a whole kitchen done in time for Thanksgiving,” says Megan Lebar, designer at Blue Ribbon Millwork in Woodstock. “At this point, I’m asking clients, ‘How does January look?’”
A major overhaul can take nearly five months to go from planning to final walk-through. You’ll need about two weeks to select your materials and design, adds Kelsey Bechtel, a fellow designer at Blue Ribbon. Cabinet companies typically need seven or eight weeks to deliver; the average contractor needs a three-month notice.
Construction can take at least another month or two. Waiting is inevitable, especially because some details can’t be fabricated until other parts –like tile and cabinets – are ready.
Most remodeling projects fall under one of two areas: long-term and short-term projects. And while the window for long-term projects before the holidays closes by mid-summer, there’s still time for smaller, shorter-term improvements.
On the simple end, a new countertop or plumbing fixture can quickly refresh a kitchen or bathroom. These projects come together in a matter of weeks, says Lebar.
At the same time, a full-scale powder room remodel isn’t out of the question, adds Bechtel. Stock cabinets and readily available accents will quickly reduce the timeline.
If it’s a full-scale remodel you’re looking for, the best time to start is January, says Lebar. This ensures plenty of time before your next holidays, and it catches contractors at a slow point in
the season. It’s also likely you can grill out or go on vacation while the kitchen is ripped apart.
“If you meet with a designer right after the holidays, everything is fresh in your mind,” says Bechtel. “You remember which spaces frustrated you most and what kinds of storage or workspaces would help you most.”
Blue Ribbon Millwork is located at 1401 S. Eastwood Drive (Ill. Rt. 47) in Woodstock. Call (815) 338-8900. ❚
By Lyndsey Nguyen, marketing manager, Starved Rock Lodge
the magic of summer at Starved Rock Lodge in Oglesby, where nature, history and adventure come together in the heart of Starved Rock State Park. Whether you’re looking for a peaceful escape, an exciting hike or a relaxing meal with a view, the Lodge offers the perfect way to embrace the season.
For those who enjoy the great outdoors, Guided Hikes are the ideal weekend activity. Offered every Saturday and Sunday morning, this hike takes guests through some of the park’s most scenic canyons. With waterfalls, towering rock formations and the chance to spot wildlife, it’s a truly memorable experience.
Adventure seekers also love the Guided Hikes at nearby Matthiessen State Park. Discover the beauty of Starved Rock’s sister park on an exciting, guided hike through one of
Illinois’ most breathtaking natural treasures. Guests journey through the sandstone canyons, forested trails and rock formations that make Matthiessen a true hidden gem.
If you’d rather just take in the scenery, the Land and Water Cruise is an excellent choice. The tour begins with lunch at the Lodge followed by a narrated trolley ride that highlights the area’s rich history. Guests then board the Eagle 1 riverboat for a peaceful cruise along the Illinois River.
Join the “Visit a Canyon and Boat Ride” tour and start your journey with a short, guided hike to one of the park’s scenic canyons. It’s followed by a boat ride along the river.
Music lovers enjoy plenty of entertainment from the Veranda, where
live performers set the mood on select Fridays and Saturdays.
No matter your style of adventure, Starved Rock Lodge offers a summer full of unforgettable moments. Visit starvedrocklodge.com to plan your perfect seasonal escape. ❚
By Chris Linden, executive editor
Dr.
Pabitra “Pabi” Adhikari is the latest addition to the team at Rockford Nephrology, a medical practice with locations in Rockford, Sycamore and Rochelle.
Just a few weeks into her work in northern Illinois, the native of Nepal feels right at home.
“I already like this city,” she says. “It’s quieter and calmer than downtown Chicago, and everyone seems very nice, very welcoming. There are a lot of people with kidney disease in this region, and the burden of kidney disease is growing overall. There is a huge shortage of nephrologists to take care of patients with kidney disease, so I’m really looking forward to helping people.”
Adhikari grew up in Nepal and studied medicine at Tribhuvan University’s Institute of Medicine in Kathmandu. There, she discovered an interest in kidney health.
“My medical school was one of the pioneer institutes in Nepal for kidney transplants, and it was very big in treating kidney disease,” she says. “I had really good exposure and mentorship in medical school.”
Her residency training brought her to Saint Francis Hospital in Evanston, Ill., and the University of Illinois Chicago. She became a fellow at Northwestern University Medical School in downtown Chicago and graduated this June.
Adhikari – Pabi to her friends and patients – has extensive knowledge in kidney-related diseases and their treatments. From diagnosis to dialysis, she’s experienced many aspects of kidney disease in her education, including the treatment of high blood pressure.
During her studies, Adhikari and her team won a debate on hemodiafiltration at the National Kidney Foundation of Illinois’ Controversies in Nephrology Debates, an event that drew nephrology fellows from five Chicago universities. Their audience was medical students, residents, nephrology fellows and practicing nephrologists.
She’s also extensively researched lupus nephritis, a variation of the autoimmune disease that can attack the kidneys and result in high blood pressure, inflammation, creatine in the blood, foamy urine or bloody urine. It can cause hypertension and kidney failure, and it occurs more often in young women, Adhikari says.
During her fellowship, Adhikari also worked alongside Dr. Jennifer Tuazon, an expert in polycystic kidney disease; Adhikari has treated many patients with this hereditary genetic condition.
At Rockford Nephrology, Adhikari will rotate her time between local hospitals and Rockford Nephrology’s clinics in Rockford and Sycamore.
When she isn’t working, Adhikari loves hiking and exploring nature, a passion she picked up back home in the shadow of Mount Everest.
“I like hiking and traveling a lot, so whenever I have a couple of days off I just find someplace to hike,” she says.
Though she’s only just begun, Adhikari finds herself right at home in the Midwest, among a welcoming, diverse community. As one of the area’s newest physicians, she’s excited to make a difference in the lives of everyday people.
“Everyone here seems really great, and this team is very dedicated to patient care,” says Adhikari. “Everyone is very devoted and working hard for better outcomes for patients, a better quality of life and patient satisfaction. It’s a great practice that’s truly helping people.”
Rockford Nephrology has clinics at 612 Roxbury Road in Rockford and 2127 Midlands Court, Ste. 102, in Sycamore. To schedule a visit with Dr. Pabitra Adhikari, call (815) 2278300 or visit rockfordnephrology.org. ❚
By Stephanie N. Grimoldby
Summer and water just go together, so whether you prefer to take in the view or dip your toes in, there are many ways to enjoy the water in our region.
There’s a riverboat legacy in St. Charles that dates back 80 years, when Chet Anderson bought a paddlewheel riverboat and offered rides to picnickers at Pottawatomie Park.
Today, the St. Charles Park District continues that legacy with the St. Charles Belle II and Fox River Queen.
“It’s a very casual, laid-back experience on the river,” says Tera Harvey, manager of cruise operations. “The fact it was built by a family here in St. Charles in the ’40s makes it so special.”
Cruising season runs from May to October and includes a variety of choices, starting with a 50-minute public tour.
History Sunday cruises run the last Sunday of the month through September and include commentary from a St. Charles History Museum docent. Every other Friday through Oct. 2, the boat hosts an adults-only Sunset Cruise.
“Sunsets on the Fox River are absolutely stunning,” Harvey says. “It’s also BYOB and snacks, or you can order a pre-made charcuterie box from Chi-cuterie in Geneva, and it will be ready for you onboard.”
Wine Down Wednesdays continue Aug. 19 and Sept. 16 with live music and 10% off a bottle of wine from The Wine Exchange in St. Charles.
New this year are Fall Foliage cruises every Friday in September and October.
Under the Stars cruises take place Sept. 25, starting with a family-friendly cruise from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.; an adultsonly cruise runs from 8 to 9:15 p.m.
“This is personally my favorite,” Harvey says. “We decorate the riverboat in lights and we cruise under the stars. It’s just so cool to see the river at a different time. The moon is so bright. It’s super relaxing; the river isn’t as busy. It’s so calm, almost glass.”
Learn more at stcriverboats.com.
In the 1990s, the Crystal Lake City Council had a vision of turning a former quarry into a destination. The result was Three Oaks Recreation Area, now a 462-acre property owned and operated by the city with private partners.
“It enhanced the quality of life and encouraged people to go and explore the outdoors,” says Heather Maieritsch, economic development manager for the City of Crystal Lake. “To have one place in your area where you can go to the beach, fish, scuba dive, paddleboard or go for a walk – and now you have entertainment at The Quarry – to have all of those in one place, it makes for a great environment.”
A 3-mile trail was completed this spring, so there’s now a complete path around Three Oaks’ massive South Lake.
Down the trail, you can find the Board House and its paddleboard rentals, as well as a marina where rowboats, canoes, kayaks and paddleboats are available for rent. There’s also a scuba diving platform.
The Quarry Cable Park, located on Three Oaks’ North Lake, features a pulley and line system that tows wakeboarders without a boat. The park hosts an array of activities.
“They host craft markets, vendors, live music, yoga, a wellness fair, and there’s sand volleyball courts,” Maieritsch says. “It’s really neat because it’s a great venue; you’re right there on the water. On Friday and Saturday nights, you can go to an event and watch the sunset.”
No matter which part of the park you visit, it’s hard not to soak it up.
“You feel like you’re in a vacation oasis when you’re at Three Oaks Recreation Area,” says Ryan Oates, assistant to the city manager. “The views that the lake provides, they’re beautiful.”
There is a $5 parking fee for non-Crystal Lake residents and an additional non-resident fee for the swim beach. Learn more at crystallake.org/threeoaks-recreation.
Sitting outside with the breeze in your hair, toes in the sand and a view of the lake can’t get much better – unless there’s good food and drinks involved.
Lindy’s Landing in Wauconda is a restaurant/ bar/banquet venue/marina that also serves up elevated cuisine in a resort-style atmosphere.
“We pride ourselves on offering a deeply family-oriented environment, featuring beachside seating where guests can dine with their toes in the sand while children enjoy the beach,” says Ceara Stang, marketing manager.
That’s just the outside. There isn’t a bad seat inside the chic, coastal-themed restaurant, with its views of Bangs Lake.
To keep with its coastal theme, Lindy’s offers seafood dishes like seabass, salmon, poke bowls and bang-bang shrimp, and an in-house sushi chef makes fresh sushi rolls several days a week. The menu also offers steaks and childfriendly options.
Beyond the fare, Lindy’s hosts plenty of special events.
On Aug. 19, Oct. 23 and Nov. 20, the restaurant hosts “Dinner and a Show,” a four-course dinner with a live musical act and themes such as “Blue Hawaii Elvis Tribute Night,” “Sinatra Cigars & Spirits” and “Dueling Pianos.”
From Sept. 11 through the end of October, Lindy’s also hosts fish and shrimp boils on Fridays and Saturdays.
“We cook fish and shrimp on the beach, and when the bell rings, guests can watch the famous ‘boil over,’” Stang says. “It’s highly entertaining for the whole family.”
And from Sept. 19 through Oct. 4, Lindy’s hosts its much-beloved Octoberfest.
“Everyone loves when authentic German food is added to the menu,” Stang says. “We have family Octoberfest games like a stein-holding contest and pretzel toss.”
Learn more at lindyslanding.com.
If your time along the water isn’t enough, perhaps the solution is to purchase a boat and get on the water.
SkipperBud’s Sequoit Harbor Marina in Antioch carries a wide variety of boats, from entry-level crafts to more complex vessels.
“We have skilled sales staff who will take a customer through and show them the differences between boats and match them with how they’ll use the boat: slow cruising around the lake, tubing, fishing – whatever type of enjoyment,” says Terry Anderson, general manager.
What’s more, every boat is delivered with help from Keith Wykowski.
“He gets out there, takes them out for an hour or two, shows them how to use it and back it up,” Anderson says. “It’s generally pretty easy.”
Like any hobby, boating has its expenses, but Anderson believes the memories that come along with boating make it a worthwhile investment.
“Very few people buy a boat to enjoy it by themselves,” adds Anderson. “It’s friends, relatives, children. It brings a level of enjoyment that’s hard to duplicate anywhere else.”
Most outings on your boat can change and adapt to your current interests.
“On the boat, you can drive to a restaurant, go fishing, drive it around in circles, go out for fireworks displays, take it to different lakes, take it south to the Ozarks – it’s kind of whatever you can dream up,” Anderson says. “What’s an enjoyable weekend and who might that be with?”
Sequoit Harbor Marina is just one location of SkipperBud’s; the company has been in business since 1959 and has locations throughout the country.
“What I love about SkipperBud’s and the boat business is we get to participate in people’s happiness,” says Anderson. “You don’t need it to go to work. You’re doing it purely because you’re trying to add a level of enjoyment to your life.”
To learn more, call (847) 395-6101 or visit skipperbuds. com/marinas/sequoit-harbor-marina. ❚
By Steven Bonifazi, assistant editor
Most homeowners don’t think twice about what comes out of the tap – until something seems off. It could be a metallic taste, cloudy glasses or white buildup around the faucet.
Some changes are a nuisance; others can become serious health risks. The only way to know for sure is to get a professional water test.
“There is no such thing as virgin tap water,” says Paul Durham, co-owner of Affordable Water in Belvidere. “If you had it tested last year, that doesn’t mean it’s still OK, because it’s constantly changing.”
Even the cleanest-looking water can change. Rainfall, soil conditions and nearby construction all affect what ends up in your faucet.
Tests are especially important if you’re on a private well, because nobody else is monitoring what comes up from the ground. Even if you’re on
a city system, it’s still a good idea to test the water every few years, or any time you notice a change in taste, smell or buildup, says Durham.
“If there is a drought, people may have more issues with their water,” he says. “If they’re building houses around it, they may be drawing water out of that aquifer.”
Every visit from Durham’s crew begins with a water analysis. Hardness, iron and pH are common trouble spots. Sometimes, the fix is as simple as replacing a water filter or repairing a water purification system; other times, the fix is to install a system. Water is important to our everyday lives, so Affordable Water crews are able to respond quickly.
“If something comes up and they’re nearby, we try to take care of it
then,” says Durham. “People appreciate that kind of service.”
For most homeowners, it’s good to replace filters on schedule. What seems like a small problem now can grow quickly into a bigger problem.
“You have to adapt to change,” Durham says. “If you don’t adapt, you’ll have some issues.”
Affordable Water is located at 1201 N. State St. in Belvidere. Call (877) 353-7638 for a test or quote. ❚
By Chris Linden, executive editor
It’s down to the final details as Au-
rora’s Orchard Valley Golf Course prepares to welcome golfers and diners this August after 18 months and $13.8 million in improvements.
“Orchard Valley is well known throughout the Chicago area, and we want to bring that asset back to the community in better shape than we started. I think that’s something we’ve accomplished,” says Ben Nachtwey, the course’s general manager and one of three PGA pros on site.
Many course improvements are subtle: re-graded greens, new irrigation and drainage, revamped bunkers and new bridges. Together, they make a more enjoyable round of golf, says Nachtwey, particularly at Hole No. 13, where there’s now an additional 20 yards of landing area beside a wetland.
“That was always the most difficult part of the course,” says Nachtwey.
“So, this will enable a little easier tee shot or second shot onto the green. It makes the course much more playable and enjoyable, especially because that’s the hole everybody talks about.”
Perhaps the biggest changes come with nearly $5 million in upgrades at the clubhouse, which includes the pro shop and The Orchard Social restaurant, bar and patio. The sleek, modernized facility takes full advantage of the course’s unforgettable views, thanks to a series of floor-to-ceiling windows at the new dining area and a larger patio. A brandnew bar welcomes golfers for a postgame or a pre-dinner drink. There’s also a private dining room that can host up to 40 people for business meetings, bridal showers and other occasions.
Head Chef Gail Huesmann’s “wanderlust menu” mixes comfort dishes with international flair.
While the finishing touches are applied, the Orchard Valley pro shop and driving range are open noon to 8 p.m. on Monday and 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday.
The real showstopper is an all-new menu at The Orchard Social, where
Orchard Valley Golf Course and The Orchard Social are located at 2411 W. Illinois Ave., in Aurora, (630) 9070500, orchardvalleygolf.com. ❚
By Chris Linden, executive editor
There’s a good reason M.J. Miller
Jewelers in Barrington is still standing after 58 years, and it starts with integrity, quality and service.
It goes back to a lesson Michael J. Miller learned early, when he met one of the world’s most prestigious jewelers.
“He said, ‘I will give you one piece of advice: Even I, Harry Winston, can’t own everything, but everything I own will be the best,’” recalls Miller. “If you can provide the best and take care of your clientele, then their children and grandchildren and greatgrandchildren will continue to support your business.”
Miller stands behind every piece of jewelry he sells, whether it’s a $300 engagement ring or a $3 million necklace. Every diamond is certified by the Gemological Institute of America and every gemstone is verified by the American Gem Lab. He’s gathered an
impressive collection of colored gemstones over the years, after visiting many mines and meeting many of the world’s top gem cutters.
“I have other major jewelers in Chicago calling me up and saying, ‘Mike, do you have this emerald, or ruby or sapphire?” Miller says.
One thing you won’t find here is a lab-grown diamond, which is more than the big-box retailers can say. The reason is simple: lab-grown diamonds have no value. Genuine stones hold their value for generations, which is why Miller has helped many clients to upgrade their diamonds over the years.
Education is a major part of the sales process, and because Miller’s team designs, builds and services any kind of jewelry, they have plenty of expertise to help a client find exactly what they want. The store also carries watches, fine crystal and gift items by
the likes of Mackenzie-Childs and Jay Strongwater. Miller also contributes to local charities in the Barrington area and beyond.
“I have clients in all 50 states and 13 foreign countries, because we treat people right, we take care of their needs, give them the best quality we can and then service whatever they buy,” says Miller.
M.J. Miller & Co. is located at 123 W. Main St. in Barrington. Call them at (847) 381-7900. ❚
By Chris Linden, executive editor
Downtown Crystal Lake’s farmers market is back for another season, and this year it’ll look a little different.
The market has returned to its longtime home at Depot Park, where crews recently finished off a $6.7 million revamp that includes tiered seating and a stage, pergolas, a veterans memorial and water features.
“We’re really excited,” says Katie Galto, market manager. “I was thinking about Depot Park at least once a day at the start of the season.”
On any given weekend between June 13 and Sept. 26, you can find nearly 20 vendors serving everything from fresh produce to canned goods, pastries, dog treats and honey.
Familiar vendors like Thomas’ Tails and Honey Lake Bee Co. have been coming for years. They’re joined by a children’s corner that features crafts, story time or visits from the park
district’s nature center. The fun lasts from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Saturday this summer.
“We’d love to invite the community to purchase their favorite goods from our vendors and just stick around awhile,” says Galto. “This is an experience and a destination, not just a grab-and-go.”
The market is also a complement to downtown Crystal Lake’s small businesses, which offer everything from food and books to women’s apparel, children’s toys and much more.
Building on the park’s new amenities, Downtown Crystal Lake has also launched a summer concert series, which returns Aug. 20 from 5 to 9 p.m., as Sara Jean Stevens and the Swamp Angels perform in the new inthe-round amphitheater at Depot Park.
“I believe you can find almost anything you’ll need for the week right here at the market,” says Galto. “I would start my day early with some bagels or a pastry, listen to some live music, let the kids do an activity or play a lawn game, and then take a stroll.”
For a full list of farmers market vendors or upcoming events, visit downtowncl.org. ❚
Sandwiches are a classic back-toschool staple that parents rely on for ease, convenience and nutrition.
A new survey conducted by Atomik Research on behalf of Nature’s Own indicates that parents care a lot about nutrition, with 88% of survey respondents agreeing that feeding their kids wholesome bread feels like a win.
With clean, simple ingredients, Nature’s Own bread supports a healthy lifestyle. Whether you choose classic white bread or you need to account for dietary restrictions, this bread has no artificial colors, flavors or preservatives.
For a nutritious lunch that includes whole grains, this Ham, Turkey, Bacon and Cheese Pocket is a flavorful new addition to your family’s menu.
Since sandwiches are so customizable, you can easily adapt this recipe to your family’s preferences. To view ingredients and learn more, go online to naturesownbread.com.
8 slices Nature’s Own Honey Wheat Bread
1/4 pound deli turkey
1/4 pound deli ham
4 slices cooked bacon
4 slices white American cheese
1 egg
1 tablespoon cold water
1 teaspoon coarse salt
Preheat oven to 350 F.
Chop turkey, ham and bacon and toss together. Set aside.
Using knife, cut off crust on each piece of bread.
With rolling pin, roll and flatten each slice of crustless bread.
Take four slices and place spoonful of chopped meats in middle of each slice. Top with broken slices of cheese.
Place remaining slices of crustless bread on top of each pocket.
In small bowl, crack egg and add water. Beat together. Dip fork into egg mixture and crimp each edge of pocket until two slices
are sealed together. Repeat on each pocket. Brush top of each pocket with remaining egg mixture and sprinkle salt on top. Place on sheet pan and bake until golden brown, 7-10 minutes.
Let cool a few minutes and enjoy.
(Source: Feature Impact)
By Chris Linden, executive editor
Auto technicians come in many forms, but for some car owners the most trusted service is right at the dealership. These organizations closely follow manufacturer recommendations to ensure your vehicle will last.
“It’s expensive to maintain a car. We know that, so when you pull in for an oil change or a tire rotation at our dealership, we’ll let you know what’s good and what needs attention,” says Kevin Keefe, president of Brilliance Honda in Crystal Lake and Brilliance Subaru in Elgin. “The stereotype is that you walk in and go, ‘OK, what does it need now?’ We try to break out of that.”
Every service visit at Brilliance Honda and Brilliance Subaru begins with a multipoint inspection on 15 parts of your vehicle. The auto technician takes photos, and sometimes videos, so the customer can see what’s good and what needs work.
While they wait, customers can stroll the showroom floor, relax in the lobby or plug in to the office. For those on the move, Brilliance Honda and Brilliance Subaru also maintain a fleet of loaner vehicles.
“There’s no charge for you to use those,” Keefe says. “It’s an important aspect of our business, and we believe that shows a direct respect for people’s time.”
There’s another bonus, and it’s standing right behind each dealership’s 28 service bays. Much of the Brilliance staff has been here for years, carefully trained in a family-centered work culture. That means there’s a familiar face every time you return.
“There’s a relationship there, and that’s important,” says Keefe. “They want to do a good job for you. They’ve gotten to know you personally. So,
when an issue comes up with your car you know they’re going to take care of it, whatever the situation. I think that goes a long way.”
Brilliance Honda is located at 680 W. Terra Cotta Road in Crystal Lake. To schedule a service appointment, call (815) 459-6400. Brilliance Subaru is located at 1500 N. Randall Road in Elgin. To schedule a service appointment, call (224) 281-4300. ❚
Woodstock Farmers Market
Ongoing, Sat. & Tues. 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Producers-only market features seasonal items. Historic Woodstock Square, (815) 338-5315, woodstockfarmersmarket.org.
Huntley Farmers Market
Ongoing, Sat. 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Local vendors bring a wide variety of foods to this outdoor summer market. Downtown Huntley, (815) 893-6280, huntley.il.us.
Farmers Market+ at The Dole
Ongoing, Sun. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Kids activities, local produce, artistic creations. The Dole, 401 Country Club Road, Crystal Lake, (815) 3074787, farmersmarketatthedole.org.
Kane County Flea Market
Aug. 1-2, Sept. 5-6, Sat. noon-5 p.m., Sun. 7 a.m.-4 p.m. See more than 500 vendors. Kane County Fairgrounds, 525 S. Randall Road, St. Charles, kanecountyfleamarket.com.
McHenry County Fair
Aug. 4-9, events daily. Includes pageant, livestock displays, 4-H show, carnival, food. McHenry County Fairgrounds, 11900 Country Club Road, Woodstock, (815) 338-5315, mchenrycountyfair.com.
Bison in the Prairie State Aug. 13, 6 p.m. Hike the tallgrass prairie and meet the resident bison. Burlington Prairie Forest Preserve, 13N240 Engel Road, Sycamore, (630) 444-3190, kaneforest.com.
Roaring ’20s: Prohibition in the Fox Valley Aug. 15, 2 p.m. Northwest Living editor Chris Linden shares local tales and legends. Reg. req. Geneva Public Library, 227 7th St., Geneva, (630) 232-0780, gpld.org.
Moon Over Wauconda
Aug. 18, 7:30-8:30 p.m. Join the local astronomy society to view the night sky. Wauconda Area Public Library, 801 N. Main St., Wauconda, (847) 526-6225, wauclib.org.
East Dundee Wine Walk
Aug. 22, 3-6 p.m. Sample wines and sales at 15 downtown stops. Location: Downtown East Dundee. Tickets/Info: Eastside Cafe, 311 Barrington Ave., East Dundee, (224) 699-9820, eastsidedundee.com.
Arts on the Green: Bourbon Country
Aug. 22, 7 p.m. Country and classic rock performed outdoors. Raue Center for the Arts at St. Mary Episcopal Church, 210 McHenry Ave., Crystal Lake, (815) 356-9212, rauecenter.org.
Local History Walking Tour
Aug. 24, 4-6 p.m. Take a 1-mile walk and learn about Woodstock’s past. Woodstock Public Library, (815) 338-0542, woodstockpubliclibrary.org.
Full Moon Hike
Aug. 27, 7:30 p.m. Watch the moon rise, then hike the woods guided by its light. Prairieview Education Center, 2112 Behan Road, Crystal Lake, (815) 338-6223, mccdistrict.org.
LITH Summer Sunset Festival
Sept. 4-6, Fri. 5-10:30 p.m., Sat.-Sun. 11 a.m.10:30 p.m. Live music, carnival, family activities. Sunset Park, 5200 Miller Road, Lake in the Hills, summersunsetfest.com.
Lunch & Learn: Hiking with Steve Raseman
Sept. 10, 2 p.m. The Barrington resident shares tales of trekking the Alps. Barrington’s White House, 145 W. Main St., Barrington, (224) 512-4066, barringtonswhitehouse.com.
Festival of the Vine
Sept. 11-13, see website for times. Food and drink vendors, live music and craft fair. Location: Downtown Geneva. Info/Tickets: Geneva Chamber of Commerce, 8 S. 3rd St., Geneva, (630) 232-6060, genevachamber.com. ❚
