Northwest Living - June/July 2026

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Independence

Fourth of July – it seems funny to me how casually we describe this holiday, as if it’s just another day on the calendar. If we call it “Independence Day,” though, we truly acknowledge its momentousness.

It was a sweltering summer in Philadelphia when the Continental Congress debated their Declaration of Independence in 1776. What emerged was one of the most significant events in human history. In declaring that all men are created equal, endowed by their Creator with unalienable rights, they weren’t just rebelling against a tyrant king. They were establishing an entirely new relationship between the people and their government – what Abraham Lincoln would one day call “of the people, by the people, for the people.”

This idea that our rights come naturally, from our Creator, rather than a government, was earth-shattering in 1776. It was practically treasonous. And, you might argue, it’s still that way today.

Our freedoms aren’t to be taken lightly. Some of the same frustrations of those early colonists – excessive taxation, tyrant leaders, heavy-handed government – are a challenge for every generation. And let’s not forget about the brave men and women who’ve fought and died protecting freedom.

Liberty has allowed us to achieve so much over the past 250 years. So, why do we reduce July 4?

Here’s my proposal: On this momentous 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, let’s reclaim that bold statement of liberty and self-government. Let’s take pride in our nation and its freedoms, and let’s keep alive that fighting spirit of 1776. Let’s make this year a time to reunite around our common ideals.

This magazine has many ideas to help you celebrate Independence Day with gusto. However you choose to celebrate, let freedom ring!

Chris Linden Executive Editor

Enjoy the Lake with Smart Boating Practices

By Peggy Werner

Gage Marine in Delavan, Wis., is a one-stop shop for all things boating. But in order to have a great time on the water, boaters need to think of safety first, says Alanna Congdon, director of marketing.

“We offer classes and private lessons to those who would prefer one-onone training,” she says.

Basic boating safety rules include wearing a life jacket, knowing the rules of the water, and making sure all mechanics are working correctly and no fluids or gas are leaking. Also, be sure to pack communication devices, check the weather forecast, charge batteries and fuel up.

Safe boating is mostly common sense and being courteous to others, Congdon adds. Avoid quick and risky maneuvers that would surprise other boaters, allow ample time and distance for other boaters to react to your

movements, carry a horn or other sound-producing device for signaling purposes, know how to stop your boat – and other emergency techniques – and designate someone as a lookout, especially around heavy traffic or potential hazards like submerged trees.

“We’ve heard of issues with people swimming off their boat and not leaving anyone behind to be a lookout or stay with the boat,” Congdon says. “You might not be able to get back in. Also, always be aware of your surroundings, obey boating laws and practice defensive boating techniques.”

Being safe also means taking care of your boat, so you can enjoy lake life as long as the season lasts. Gage Marine sells new and used boats and services all boats, including fishing boats, pontoons, wake boats and runabouts.

To ensure smooth sailing, trained, certified, experienced technicians at Gage Marine are prepared to address problems at your location, as well as take care of your boat year-round. Services include seasonal check-ups, engine tune-ups, cleaning and polishing, and repairs and replacements of parts, canvas and vinyl.

Gage Marine is located at 5167 Wis. Rt. 50 in Delavan, Wis. Call (262) 740-2628 or visit gageboats.com. ❚

No Small Thing

What’s

more difficult? Accepting God’s grace or paying it forward? It’s hard to give away what we haven’t internalized. And yet Jesus commanded us to love one another as he loves us.

“Love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it. Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself.’” (Matthew 22:37–40).

It’s little wonder Jesus often chastised his followers for their reluctance to believe in God’s promises. Only by really understanding that God’s grace has nothing to do with our own “goodness” are we able to extend it to others, in Christ’s name. And that’s no small thing.

“Grace is Christianity’s best gift to the world, a spiritual nova in our midst exerting a force stronger than vengeance, stronger than racism, stronger than hate,” writes author Philip Yancey in “What’s So Amazing About Grace.” And yet, the idea that God’s love comes to us “no strings attached” goes against our deepest instincts. We believe in the survival of the fittest; in earning our own way; in the logic of crime and punishment. Indeed, societies depend upon these concepts.

But God’s ways are not man’s ways. And when it comes to spiritual truth, His ways are the only ones that matter.

Jesus knew grace wasn’t easy to understand. In parables, he spelled out what it looks like in real life: A foolish, spendthrift son is welcomed home with open arms, no questions asked (Luke 15). Is it fair? A vineyard laborer earns the same amount of money for one hour of work as others earn for a full day of it (Matthew 20). Is it fair? Only God has the right to make that call.

In Matthew 18, Jesus, the king of kings, illustrates what not to be: an ungracious servant who won’t forgive his debtor, even after his own, much larger debts, are forgiven by a king. ❚

– Janine Pumilia

2026 2026

SATURDAYS ON THE SQUARE

May 23 - Sept 5, 2026

PORK CHOP COOK-OUT

June 24, 2026

ANTIQUE FLEA MARKETS

June 28, Aug 9, Sept 27

ELKHORN FIREWORKS

July 3, 2026

ELKHORN RIBFEST

July 15 - 19, 2026

Events Events

STEAK COOK-OUT

July 22, 2026

WALWORTH COUNTY FAIR

Sept 2 - Sept 7, 2026

ELKHORN CRAFT BASH

October 3, 2026

ELKHORN OKTOBERFEST

October 17, 2026

ELKHORN TREE LIGHTING

December 4, 2026

45TH CHRISTMAS PARADE

December 5, 2026

Great Landscape Lighting Isn’t a DIY Thing

By Chris Linden, executive editor

We’ve all seen those little solar lights in the hardware store or a neighbor’s backyard. They’re easy to install, but they’re not built to last. If you’re looking for better performance and durability, that’s where low-voltage lighting systems come into play.

These lights are connected to a 12-volt electrical line that runs underground, much like an invisible dog fence. Whereas a solar light is easy to install, low-voltage systems are best left to the professionals.

“Every year, we get two or three customers who tried to do it themselves and they left the wiring too close to the surface,” says Daniel Fernandez, owner of Premier Lighting of Chicagoland. “When the lawnmower goes over that line, it cuts the cables and now it’s not working. The other problem with those systems at the hardware store is that the components are not high-quality.”

Premier Lighting specializes in low-voltage systems that are ideal for illuminating a landscape, whether it’s uplights, path lights or even backyard sound systems. His team not only designs and installs but also maintains and services existing systems, even those that were installed by someone else.

These systems are built to last and made from high-quality materials by trusted American manufacturers. Premier Lighting warranties its complete system for a minimum of 10 years.

Fernandez believes there’s both an art and a science to this work. The science part is managing the equipment and keeping it running. The artistic part is knowing where, and how, to place lights for maximum effect. His team has a variety of products, from small

pathway lights to powerful uplights to “moonlights” that shine down from a tree trunk. With the right combination, they create an unmistakable effect on any landscape.

“If you’re looking at it from the street, we’ll put light on the things that stand out,” Fernandez says. “That’s how we create a nice contrast between our focal points and your house.”

For a free estimate, call Premier Lighting at (847) 551-1500 or go to premierlightingchicagoland.com. ❚

Quality Toys Encourage Growth, Play

By Steven Bonifazi, deputy editor

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when choosing a gift for a child, especially when the toy store has so many possibilities. To narrow your options, start with toys that spark fun, and you’ll find something that has lasting value.

“The first thing to consider is what’s age-appropriate for your child,” says Kate Nuhn, co-owner of Marvin’s Toy Store in Crystal Lake and McHenry. “Often, parents want to give toys that are more advanced, but children get the most play value from toys that match their developmental stage.”

Every child is different, but you can make a good guess based on their age and their interests. Where a baby or toddler might enjoy a plush animal or a bath toy, an older child might enjoy construction toys like Plus-Plus. Similar to Legos, these sets have colorful plus-shaped pieces that lock together and form all sorts of creations.

Good toys don’t just meet children at their level. They should also develop qualities like motor skills, patience and creativity.

With Hubelino’s marble run building blocks, kids can use slides and funnels to speed their marble toward the finish line. These toys are a fun way to teach engineering and problem-solving, says Nuhn.

She and her mother, Lori McConville, a former teacher, vet every product in the showroom, paying close attention to a product’s origin, safety and sustainability.

If a toy is built from durable plastic or dyed finishes that won’t chip, that’s a good sign, says Nuhn.

“You don’t want toys that are one and done. Those are not of value,” she adds. “It’s like fast food – it’s fast toy.”

For those who are overwhelmed by the choices, local stores like Marvin’s can offer recommendations. “We train our staff on what items are best for what ages and why, and we also offer curated gifts,” says Nuhn. “We’re here to help you pick the right gift.” Marvin’s Toy Store is located at 64 N. Williams St., in Crystal Lake. Learn more at marvinstoystore.shop.

Show Your Patriotism for America 250

By Chris Linden, executive editor

Quick– can you say “semiquincentennial” five times fast? It’s a real tongue twister, isn’t it? Fear not, there are plenty of better ways to celebrate the 250th anniversary of America’s Declaration of Independence. Across the Chicago area, communities are coming together for this milestone. From parades and fireworks to performances and lectures, this summer’s calendar is jam-packed with festivities.

Barrington

The village has spent all year celebrating our nation’s independence with cultural events at Barrington’s White House, community concerts and plenty of Americana at the weekly Thursday Night Out event.

It all culminates in the annual Independence Day parade on July 4. The parade leaves Barrington High School at 10 a.m. and follows Main Street, through downtown, to the Metra parking lot behind Moretti’s. There, the Lions Club greets paradegoers with fresh-grilled brats, chips and cold beer, plus a big heaping of patriotic tunes from Jim Cornelison, national anthem singer for the Chicago Blackhawks.

“He has a very recognizable voice,” says Clancy Potts, event manager for the village. “He’s also sung at Bears games, so you probably know his voice, if not his name.”

July 4 also brings a portrayal of Abigail Adams at Barrington’s White House and the revival of Barrington’s community band. The night caps off with a fireworks show at 9:30 p.m., from the grounds of Barrington High School.

“It’s really a chance for our community to show everything Barrington has to offer,” says Potts. “Our great businesses that support our community, our nonprofit organizations, our government partners –everyone comes together.”

Barrington’s celebration continues through the summer with sidewalk sales in late July and community icons during Thursday Night Out, a weekly gathering that combines a vendor market, car show and community concert.

There’s also a growing lineup of presentations and musical celebrations at Barrington’s White House, many of them raising the voices of America’s past.

“We celebrated our sesquicentennial here in Barrington about a decade ago, and that was a big hoopla,” says Potts. “It’s fun to have a much wider celebration that Barrington is part of, as we showcase all of the things our community has to offer.”

For a full list of America 250 activities in Barrington, check out barrington-il.gov/america250.

Crystal Lake

It’s just not Independence Day without Lakeside Festival. After more than 40 summers it’s now one of the longest-running gatherings in McHenry County. This year, it runs July 2-5 at The Dole, 401 Country Club Road in Crystal Lake.

From Thursday through Sunday, enjoy live music, a carnival, the beer garden and Taste By the Lake. Special events include a kid-friendly ice cream social on Friday, a children’s bike parade on Saturday, and Crystal Lake’s Independence Day parade on Sunday.

By dusk Sunday, all eyes turn south toward Crystal Lake’s namesake waterbody, where the fireworks fly high overhead. Crystal Lake Concert Band and Voices in Harmony set the soundtrack with a show of patriotic selections including Tchaikovsky’s “1812 Overture.”

Lakeside Festival isn’t the only way Crystal Lake plans to party. On July 12, the Fox River Valley Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution host a plaque dedication ceremony at McCormick Park, along U.S. Route 14. It’s followed by a Cherry Blossom Tea Party at First Congregational Church, just across the street.

For more information on Crystal Lake events, go online to thedole.org or crystallake.org.

Elgin

Nothing brings a community together like a parade, and Elgin has two of them. The traditional Fourth of July Parade leaves the corner of Douglas and Slade avenues at 9 a.m. on July 4. Thousands of people line the streets as the parade winds its way to City Hall. At the same time, the third annual Elgin Pet Parade invites furry friends to march from Douglas Avenue and Ann Street toward City Hall. The fun continues all afternoon at Festival Park, where there’s a pie-eating contest, food trucks and fireworks.

That’s just the climax. All year, Elginites have been celebrating what it means to be an American. On July 8, they host a public reading of the Declaration of Independence at the Elgin History Museum, where more lectures are scheduled through the summer.

The library also hosts museum displays and reminders of Elgin’s contributions to history, including its famous place in dairy culture. This is the place that invented the “Elgin Cut,” the skinny butter stick we all use today. This July, look for butter sculptures that mark the occasion. Or, submit a recipe, your family story or a special piece of artwork.

For a full list of America 250 and Independence Day activities, visit elginil250.com or gailborden.info/250.

St. Charles

As a designated Illinois America 250 community, St. Charles is going all-out. There are no time capsules this year, but in true 2026 fashion the City of St. Charles is building social media reels to reflect on celebrations from the past.

“We’re asking anyone who has celebrated July Fourth in St. Charles to send us photos to info@stcharlesil.gov and include their name and the town where they live,” says Lisa Garhan, communications division manager for the City. “You don’t have to live here; you just have to have been here on the Fourth of July.”

The centerpiece of this year’s festivities comes on July 4, starting with the Fox Valley Community Band’s performance from noon to 1 p.m. in the First Street Plaza. Once dusk settles, the riverfront offers some of the best views of the fireworks, especially from Mt. St. Mary’s Park.

The fun continues through the summer, as the St. Charles Public Library hosts family crafts and lectures, like professor Gary Midkiff’s look at George Washington on July 30.

The park district has its own specials, including Independence Day Weekend contests and deals at Pottawatomie Golf Course, Norris Recreation Center and River View Miniature Golf Course.

“We really celebrate our history, our historical buildings and our landmarks,” says Garhan. “So, to be part of a bigger celebration, we’re all taking a lot of pride in it.”

For a full list of events, visit stcharlesil.gov. Find more Illinois America 250 events at il250.org. ❚

Geneva, Illinois

ALWAYS IN SEASON!

Anytime is the right time to visit Geneva! Some of Chicagoland‘s finest shops, restaurants and taverns are here for you to enjoy year-round. In the fall, our Festival of the Vine offers the perfect blend of good wine, good food and good fun for the whole family. Celebrate a sparkling winter season to remember at our annual Christmas Walk & Holiday House Tour. Whatever the season, Geneva is here to welcome you! Go to visitgenevail.com for full event details and ticketing information.

Festival of the Vine Sept. 11-13

Christmas W alk Dec. 4

H oliday H ouse T our Dec. 4 & 5

Weight Loss Drugs Change the Calculus

By Peggy Werner

Weight loss is a much bigger challenge than just changing your diet and exercising more. And for those who need medication to help them drop the pounds, it soon will be more affordable, says Dr. Michael Hernandez, an internal medicine physician at Fox Valley Orthopedics.

“Being overweight is a complex health condition that needs the attention of a health care provider who knows a patient’s family and medical history, can offer education, monitor progress and do follow-up visits,” says Hernandez. “We have to look at the whole patient and learn about each individual’s nutrition, sleep habits, stress level, mental health and other health problems, which all impact a person’s ability to lose weight. World problems and personal problems often make people use food as an easy reward to feel better at the moment, but it doesn’t work in the long run.”

Hernandez oversees the Healthy Weight Loss Program at Fox Valley Orthopedics. It began about three years ago as a way to help overweight patients prepare for surgery and physical therapy. However, it has proven to help everyone who needs to lose weight.

He’s not opposed to using GLP-1 drugs, when necessary. The medications mimic a natural gut hormone in a way that regulates blood sugar, slows digestion and creates a feeling of fullness. The drugs are primarily used to treat Type 2 diabetes and obesity, and they come under popular brand names like Ozempic, Wegovy, Mounjaro and Zepbound.

Hernandez has prescribed the drugs to help patients lose weight for more than seven years. He believes they are safe, effective and improving with continued research. And, Medicare recently approved covering GLP-1 drugs for weight loss, beginning July 1, with a $50 copay.

These medications are now available in the form of a daily pill or a weekly injection. In pill form, the medication costs less to produce, and therefore it’s more affordable for patients, says Hernandez. All brands basically do the same job, but some patients may better tolerate one brand over another. Common side effects include nausea, constipation, diarrhea and vomiting, which usually

subside over time. Still, Hernandez finds the newer weight loss medications are “far superior” to amphetamines that still help people lose weight but also contribute to jittery feelings, increased blood pressure and a risk of heart disease.

Using the drugs alone and without supervision is not a healthy choice.

“The patient’s progress has to be monitored to see how they are responding,” Hernandez says. “A diet high in protein helps reduce muscle loss. They also need to drink enough water and know if the GLP-1 drugs interfere with other medications being taken.”

A slow weight loss of about 5 pounds a month is the safest and healthiest option, he adds. Losing weight quickly can contribute to muscle loss, weight gain and other health problems.

Hernandez predicts the future is bright for GLP-1 drugs, especially as researchers find other uses for them, including reducing inflammation and treating other health conditions.

“There is a lot of research going on and it’s all good,” says Hernandez.

And he doesn’t foresee a decline in the need for weight loss drugs.

“People may need to stay on the drugs long term because, unless society changes how it celebrates, mourns and gathers around food without making healthier choices, it will always be a problem. I don’t see society changing.”

Fox Valley Orthopedics has clinics in Barrington, Elgin, Algonquin, Geneva and Yorkville. To schedule an appointment, call (855) 386-7846 or visit fvortho.com. ❚

Canyons, Waterfalls, Hiking Trails Galore

By Lyndsey Nguyen, marketing manager, Starved Rock Lodge

Experience the magic of summer at Starved Rock Lodge, where nature, history and adventure come together in the heart of Starved Rock State Park in Oglesby.

Explore the great outdoors with Guided Hikes that take guests through the park’s most scenic canyons. With waterfalls and towering rock formations, it’s a truly memorable experience. The 3-mile round trip happens every Saturday and Sunday and includes lunch, bottled water and a souvenir backpack.

If you’d rather relax and take in the scenery, the Land and Water Cruise is an excellent choice. Available Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, this tour begins with lunch at the Lodge followed by a narrated trolley ride that highlights the area’s rich history and local legends. Guests then board the Eagle 1 for a peaceful cruise along the

Illinois River with plenty of opportunities to take photos and enjoy the view.

The “Visit a Canyon and Boat Ride” tour on Saturdays and Sundays includes a short, guided hike to a scenic canyon followed by a boat ride along the river. A snack, bottled water and drawstring backpack are included.

For those who enjoy soaking up the scenery, River Wildlife Cruises are a must. Offered Saturdays and Sundays, these relaxing one-hour boat rides offer the chance to observe the beautiful waterfowl that inhabit the Illinois River.

History buffs will love the Historic Trolley Tour, which offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. Learn about Starved Rock’s historic landmarks as you travel to the Starved Rock Lock and Dam, through downtown Utica

and to the Starved Rock Visitor Center. This tour runs Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and select weekends.

Then, stop by the Veranda on Fridays and Saturdays for live performances by talented local musicians. Grab a bite to eat, sip on your favorite drink and enjoy the sounds of summer at Starved Rock Lodge.

No matter your style of adventure, Starved Rock Lodge has a summer full of unforgettable moments.

Visit starvedrocklodge.com to plan your seasonal escape. ❚

An Advocate for Families During Divorce

By Chris Linden, executive editor

When you’re going through a divorce, you need an advocate who has your interests in mind. As a family law attorney, Claire Keefe finds joy in speaking up for clients.

“We are advocating for people who don’t have a voice,” says Keefe, an attorney at Strategic Divorce, a family law practice in Lake Bluff. “That brings me a lot of energy and excitement that I get to help people. Lots of people feel silenced and scared to say something and to move on with their lives amidst a divorce.”

Working from a position of empathy with strength, Keefe and the seven other attorneys at Strategic Divorce prioritize listening and communicating. The practice is built upon the trademarked Strategic Divorce Process, which uses five steps to walk clients through a divorce. It starts with a simple question: Where do you see yourself six months from now?

“When it’s all done, it’s not like your life is over. It’s just starting a completely new chapter,” says Keefe. “We get to frame that for clients and help them to see their future.”

Since she joined the practice in August 2024, Keefe has helped many families to settle their differences. As one of two attorneys on every case, she drafts pleadings and handles research, communications, court appearances, trials and anything else the client needs.

“We always have two attorneys on a case, so that if one attorney isn’t available then I’m available,” says Keefe. “It’s a big customer service piece. I’m here to make sure everyone is communicating.”

Communication is a critical part of reaching a divorce settlement. There are many details to review, and there are often competing opinions. Keefe’s team works with an “amicable-first” philosophy that emphasizes agreement over conflict. It’s a critical advantage in McHenry County, where Keefe focuses much of her practice.

“You can’t walk into the court in McHenry County until you’ve had a discussion with opposing counsel attempting to get a resolution,” says Keefe. “I think that’s really important, because sometimes people forget when you’re fighting that you can always calm down for a second and say, ‘Let’s just figure this out together.’”

Keefe grew up in Libertyville and has always had a special connection to McHenry County. In part, that’s thanks to her family’s auto dealership, Brilliance Honda of Crystal Lake and Brilliance Subaru of Elgin. She’s spent summers working alongside her father, Kevin, and her siblings: Thomas, James and twin sister Kelly.

Like her family, Keefe is a big supporter of Anderson Humane of Elgin, where she and her husband, Mason Meadows, have rescued two dogs. She’s raising money on their behalf before she joins this October’s Chicago Marathon. Keefe

is also a regular participant in the Veterans Path to Hope 5K. Keefe knew from an early age she wanted to be a lawyer, and that interest only grew as she studied at DePauw University in Indiana; she later earned her law degree at Indiana University before joining the bar. Michone Riewer, who founded Strategic Divorce, was Keefe’s mentor throughout her school years.

Though she lives in Lake County, Keefe is never far from her McHenry County clients. Phone and Zoom calls come standard, and a personal visit is never out of the question.

“If they call and say, ‘Can we meet an hour before our court date?’ or they don’t want to drive out to Lake Bluff, I will meet them anywhere,” says Keefe. “If they say, ‘Let’s meet in downtown Crystal Lake,’ that’s great. It gives me a chance to stop by and see my family, too.”

Extra attention to the customer is what sets Strategic Divorce apart from many other firms, and it shows in the happy clients who stay in touch, whether it’s dropping in for a casual visit, delivering lunch for attorneys or building Lego flowers as a thank-you.

“When it’s resolved, the relief is so apparent,” Keefe says. “We just resolved a case yesterday and our client said the relief they felt was indescribable. It feels amazing to know that we can help someone and have such an impact on their lives.”

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. ❚

Book Nook: ‘Happy Semiquincentennial’

By Chris Linden, executive editor

It’s not every day your nation turns 250, and it’s not every day you find a book with fun ways to celebrate the occasion, like Jay Payleitner’s “Happy Semiquincentennial, America!”

In his latest book, the St. Charles author and speaker shares 250 things that remind us just how exceptional America is.

He begins with one of those most quintessential of American tales: the road trip, as he lays out nearly 40 classic destinations. Greasy spoons and souvenirs, drive-thrus, eclectic museums (the Lunchbox Museum, anyone?) and even the largest ball of twine – is there anything so full of nostalgia or so unique to this part of the world?

Along the way, Payleitner dives into many parts of our pop culture that are seared into our consciousness, from red Solo cups and knock-knock jokes to county fairs, foods, even trailer

parks. He explores our nation’s flora and fauna, sports legends and inventions that are part of our everyday life (Play-Doh, Slinky, Popsicles?).

America’s 250 years are full of exciting historical moments and notable quotables, from Jefferson’s immortal “life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness,” to “I have a dream,” to “tear down this wall.” Sadly, he doesn’t quite hit “four score and seven” historical moments, but we’ll forgive him the oversight.

Payleitner’s style is fun and playful, which makes for a fun and fast read. It’s the sort of souvenir that looks great on the family coffee table and makes for easy reading this summer. And maybe you’ll find a few new ideas

to help celebrate our nation’s momentous 250th anniversary.

“You’ll be reminded of the myriad of reasons why America is still the place you want to call home,” Payleitner writes. And, we agree!

To order Jay Payleitner’s “Happy Semiquincentennial, America!” go to jaypayleitner.com.

Jay Payleitner is the author of more than 30 books, with titles like “52 Things Kids Need from a Dad,” “Girl Dad,” “What If God Wrote Your Bucket List,” and “The Prayer of Agur.” He’s produced Christian radio programs, spoken at private retreats and been translated into 10 languages. ❚

Rockford Nephrology Associates

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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

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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. ❚

When Buying Floors, Trust the Local Experts

By Chris Linden, executive editor

It’s always important to do your research before a home improvement project, but sometimes there is such a thing as too much.

Perhaps the best step you can take is to put your trust in people who know their business and care for their customers. That’s why people have trusted four generations of the family behind Kenny’s Floor Coverings in Johnsburg.

“Just try to relax,” says Taylor Schroeder, who’s worked alongside her dad, Ken, for over a decade. “We’re here to help you and point you in the right direction so you can get a floor that works well for you.”

The sales process at this familyowned business starts with a few wellpointed questions.

“We really try to get to know the customer so we can find out the best quality, style, color and price point for carpet or flooring that suits them,” says

Taylor. “We have worked with a lot of different types of people, so we know the first step is to understand your needs.”

Pets, children, pools, rentals, social gatherings – these can all impact which type of flooring is right for your home, because some flooring is better for certain uses. If someone’s interested in a current trend or color palette, the sales team can help there, too.

The Schroeders back up their experience with competitive pricing, quality installation and handson customer service – common traits among family businesses. Ken and his daughters, Sarah and Taylor, are the third and fourth generation in their family to work with flooring.

“I’m really proud to have serviced the McHenry County area for almost

30 years, and I can tell you we’re proud to have built this business on honesty and trust with our customers,” says Ken. “If it wasn’t for them, we wouldn’t still be here.”

Kenny’s Floor Coverings is located at 3812 N. Richmond Road (Ill. Rt. 31), in Johnsburg. For a quote, call (815) 385-4069. ❚

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

July 4-5 & Aug. 1-2, Sat. noon-5 p.m., Sun. 7 a.m.-4 p.m. Kane County Fairgrounds, 525 S. Randall Road, St. Charles, kanecountyfleamarket.com.

Declaration of Independence Reading

July 8, 4:30 p.m. Join communities across the nation in reading this foundational document during America’s Semiquincentennial celebration. Elgin History Museum, 360 Park St., Elgin, (847) 742-4248, elginhistory.org.

McHenry Fiesta Days

Entertainment & Events

July 9-19, events daily. Includes a parade, carnival, Taste event, art fair and live music. Petersen Park, Veterans Memorial Park and downtown McHenry, mchenryfiestadays.com.

Kane County Fair

July 15-19, events daily. Bull riding, barrel racing, demo derby, live music, livestock auction. Kane County Fairgrounds, 525 S. Randall Road, St. Charles, kanecountyfair.com.

Corky Siegel

July 18, 7:30 p.m. The blues artist kicks off a weekend of folk and blues performances in town. Woodstock Opera House, 121 W. Van Buren St., Woodstock, (815) 338-5300, woodstockoperahouse.com.

Barrington Library Teaching Garden

July 21, 9:30-11 a.m. Warm up with some garden work, then learn a few pointers. Barrington Area Library, 505 N. Northwest Hwy., Barrington, (847) 382-1300, balibrary.org.

The Bonds of History

July 25, 2 p.m. A local author and museum curator explores Illinois’ 96th volunteer infantry. Dunn Museum, 1899 W. Winchester Road, Libertyville, (847) 367-6640, lcfpd.org.

Understanding Coyotes

July 29, 6:30 p.m. Shane McKenzie, of Urban Coyote Research Project, explores how coyotes live in the suburbs. Geneva Public Library, 227 7th St., Geneva, (630) 232-0780, gpld.org.

Hollywood Nights: Bob Seger Experience

July 31, 8 p.m. Tribute show plays favorites like “Night Moves” and “Old Time Rock & Roll.” RiverEdge Park, 360 N. Broadway, Aurora, (630) 896-6666, paramountaurora.com.

National Night Out in Huntley

Aug. 4, 5-7 p.m. Connect with law enforcement while playing games and building a safer community. Town Square, Downtown Huntley, (815) 893-6280, huntley.il.us.

McHenry County Fair

Aug. 4-9, events daily. Fair pageant, livestock and 4-H displays, carnival, tractor pulls, live music. McHenry County Fairgrounds, 11900 Country Club Road, Woodstock, (815) 3385315, mchenrycountyfair.com.

Griffin William Sherry & Robbie Fulks

Aug. 7, 7 p.m. An evening of folk, bluegrass and Americana. Raue Center for the Arts, 26 N. Williams St., Crystal Lake, (815) 3569212, rauecenter.org. ❚