DECEMBER 2016
CHRISTMAS STORIES staged at local theaters PAGE 12
WINTER RETREAT
in Cedarburg PAGE 46
TREE FARMS that make the cut PAGE 16
Holiday Spirits SWANKY SPOTS TO CELEBRATE THE SEASON
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Editor's Note It has been a crazy year.
“spirits” of the season.
Most recently, the Chicago Cubs ended its 108-year curse when the North Side team came out victorious in game seven of the World Series; and, on the political front, Donald Trump wrangled enough electoral votes in the presidential election to inherit one of the few pieces of real estate that would have otherwise always eluded him – the White House.
Since you’ll be spending some quality time with family this month, we have a slew of stories to keep you entertained. Visit the theater to see a staging of your favorite Christmas story, watch a festive flick on the silver screen, catch a ride on the Polar Express or support our community of artists by shopping small at local holiday art fairs.
Whether your sports fandom falls on Chicago’s North Side or South Side, or your political views land on the left or the right, one thing is certain: We’re all in this together. The beauty of the holiday season lies in its ability to generate an outpouring of love, kindness and generosity toward your fellow man. It means setting aside differences. And it serves as a reminder of what truly matters in life.
Savor tradition by attending Geneva’s Christmas Walk and Holiday House Tour or plan a winter retreat to Cedarburg – an historic Wisconsin town with centuries-old limestone buildings fit with coffeehouses, enticing shops, art galleries and cozy pubs and restaurants. Whatever your plans may be, the magazine team wishes you and your family a beautiful holiday season filled with love, light and togetherness. Happy holidays, and cheers to a new year!
This month’s holiday edition shares stories that not only celebrate the season, but life, as well.
DIRECTOR OF NICHE PUBLISHING Laura Shaw 630-427-6213 lshaw@shawmedia.com EDITOR Kara Silva 630-427-6209 ksilva@shawmedia.com
In the cover story, we’ve scoured the county for some of the swankiest spots for holiday cocktails. From date night and drinks with the girls to private parties and happy hours, you’ll have no problem getting into the
Kara Silva, Editor
on the
COVER Patten House in Geneva is just one of the many swanky spots making spirits brighter this holiday season. Both festive and fancy, find out where to sip and socialize, on page 30. Photo by RON MCKINNEY Salon Services by MARIO TRICOCI Stylist - LINDSAY Makeup - LUNA Fashions from SPECIAL OCCASIONS ON THE AVENUE IN BATAVIA
4 | DECEMBER 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
Published by Shaw Media 333 N. Randall Road, Suite 2 St. Charles, IL 60174 Phone: 630-845-5288 www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
DESIGNER Carol Manderfield 630-427-6253 cmanderfield@shawmedia.com ACCOUNT MANAGERS Sandra Petti 630-313-0251 spetti@shawmedia.com Tricia Walter 630-845-5272 twalter@shawmedia.com CORRESPONDENTS Melissa Riske, Kelsey O’Connor, Wendy Foster, Kevin Druley, Chris Walker, Elizabeth Harmon, Stephanie N. Grimoldby, Peter Stadalsky, Jonathan Bilyk PHOTOGRAPHERS Ron McKinney, Jodi Dazzo
Kane County Magazine is available by subscription for $24 a year. If you would like each month’s edition mailed to your home, send payment information and address to Kane County Magazine, 7717 S. Route 31, Crystal Lake, IL 60014 or via email at subscriptions@shawmedia.com.
www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
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INSIDE HOLIDAYS 9 YEAR-END SOIRÉES Perfect places to ring in 2017 12 CHRISTMAS STORIES Take center stage at local theaters 16 DOWN ON THE FARM Seasonal performances take a Christmas tree that makes the cut 20 MAKING SPIRITS BRIGHT Festive fun for the whole family 24 BAZAAR GIFTS Visit a winter flea market and arts fairs for one-of-a-kind finds
CHRISTMAS
Seven Geneva shops offer unique options for holiday giving
46 CHRISTMAS IN CEDARBURG Historic Wisconsin town an idyllic winter retreat
OUT & ABOUT
DINING & ENTERTAINING
48 KARAOKE CULTURE Evergreen Pub & Grill, A’Salute, EvenFlow top spots to croon to your favorite tunes
BUSINESS & CIVIC
50 THE 12 GIFTS OF CHRISTMAS Seven Geneva shops offer unique options for holiday giving
30 SPIRITS OF THE SEASON Swanky spots for holiday cocktails
50 THE 12 GIFTS OF
TRAVEL
36 WOMEN OF DISTINCTION 53 COPIOUS CRITTERS Class of 2016-17 honored at annual At Hickory Knolls Discovery Center luncheon in St. Charles 55 SOCIAL LIFE 37 BATAVIA BOOSTER Batavia Woman’s Club hosts Real estate agent Diane Anderson fashion show to benefit Elderday connects with community through Center volunteering 56 ARTIST SHOWCASE
HOME & LIFESTYLE
38 GENEVA SAVORS TRADITION With Christmas Walk and Holiday House Tour 40 GREEN THUMB GIVING A gift guide for gardeners
St. Charles photographer, Claudia Frost, shares wintry image from ‘Urban Forest’ series 58 CALENDAR See what’s happening this month in Kane County!
HEALTH & WELLNESS
43 THE GLASS-HALF-FULL GUY Your New Year’s realization 44 FIVE SIMPLE MEASURES For a blissful December
6 | DECEMBER 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
ENIOR ORTRAITS
121 S. MAIN ST. | ALGONQUIN, IL 847-989-2782RONMCKINNEYPHOTO.COM
Year-end soirées to ring in 2017 By JONATHAN BILYK
T
hroughout the region, decorations of red and green, boughs of holly and endless rounds of silver bells have signaled the arrival of what is – for many – the most wonderful time of the year: the holiday season.
will experience at least seven hours of live music, dancing and drink specials at EvenFlow Music & Spirits, located in the heart of downtown Geneva.
While it might be great to be home for the holidays, a perfect cap on a great holiday season requires heading out on the town to send the old year out with a bang and ring in the new.
Surrounding the band’s live set, EvenFlow will offer drink packages, including an open bar offering an assortment of beers, wines and shelf liquors for $85 from 9 p.m. to midnight.
Across the Fox Valley region, a number of hotels, clubs, restaurants and others will offer an abundance of options for a fun frolic into 2017.
Last call is expected to be a little after 1:30 a.m., Rivero says.
From live music, deejays and dancing to dinner buffets, drink specials and champagne toasts, here are a few options to consider for your New Year’s Eve experience:
u EvenFlow Music & Spirits 302 W. State St. | Geneva 331-248-0269 evenflowmusic.com Likely beginning between 6 and 7 p.m., New Year’s Eve revelers
“We’re still deciding when it’ll get started,” general manager Ernesto Rivero says, adding that the evening will feature live music from local St. Charles party rock cover band, Tricky Mission. The band’s website bio declares that every show has but one mission: “Get the party started and keep it going until the lights do down.”
“By that time, everyone has had enough fun and most just want to go home,” he says with a laugh.
u Arcada Theater 105 E. Main St. | St. Charles 630-962-7000 www.arcadalive.com The historic theater in St. Charles’ bustling downtown will offer two specials this New Year’s Eve, says Ron Onesti, president and CEO of The Onesti Entertainment Corporation, which owns and operates the Arcada Theater.
-Continued on page 10 www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
HOLIDAY
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2016 | 9
-Continued from page 9
geneva, il A WINTER SHOPPING RETREAT
No two stores are alike! Each store in Geneva is as unique as you are. Some are whimsical, others classic, elegant or scrumptious. All invite you to discover the one-of-a-kind merchandise they have to offer. Spend the day or weekend in Geneva. It’s a great winter retreat! Warm your spirits with a cup of hot chocolate. Splurge on spa services. Pamper yourself in a world-class hotel. Or simply linger over lunch with old friends. Visit www.visitgenevaillinois.com today to plan your stay. We’ll be waiting for you.
630-232-6060 visitgenevaillinois.com
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10 | DECEMBER 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
HOLIDAY
For $175, couples can enjoy a dinner buffet, open bar, champagne toast, favors and dancing to an assortment of classic hits performed by Reflections of Motown and the Jersey Girls. Or for $50 more, couples can head up to the Arcada’s new 1920s-style speakeasy on the theater’s third floor for an upscale dinner buffet, open bar, champagne toast and dancing with Diva Monte.
u Pheasant Run Resort 4051 E. Main St.| St. Charles 630-584-6300 www.pheasantrun.com As the resort, located on the East Side of St. Charles, continues to renovate and update its guest rooms and other spaces, it is inviting guests to ring in the New Year with a room and party package. For $459 per couple, guests can stay at the resort and toast the New Year at “an adults-only celebration,” which will feature a New Year’s Eve dinner buffet with wine from 7 to 9 p.m.; a deejay in the resort’s Garden Atrium; live music and dancing in the New Orleans Ballroom from 9 to 11 p.m.; and an open bar from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. The evening will be capped off with a countdown to the New Year, complete with a champagne toast and balloon drop. Guests can enjoy a New Year’s Day Brunch the following morning, as well as a 2 p.m. checkout. The New Year’s festivities are not open to those who do not book a room at the resort, a Pheasant Run spokeswoman says.
u Two Brothers Roundhouse 205 N. Broadway Ave. | Aurora 630-264-2739 twobrothersbrewing.com/restaurants/ roundhouse The crew at Two Brothers Roundhouse in Aurora will host a special gathering in its tavern, which is nestled within a unique and historic railroad roundhouse. Converted into an entertainment complex in the 1990s by a group that included former Chicago Bears great Walter Payton, the roundhouse now offers an assortment of entertainment, craft brews and other goodies.
On New Year’s Eve, the Roundhouse will offer a package, much the same as they have done for the past five years, a representative says. For $60 a person, plus tax and gratuity, guests will receive a buffet dinner, featuring dinner choices, desserts, late night snacks and a champagne toast at midnight. A cash bar will be offered throughout the night, along with dancing to music spun by a deejay.
u Hotel Baker 100 W. Main St. | St. Charles 630-584-2100 www.hotelbaker.com The historic Hotel Baker in St. Charles will host a New Year’s Eve party in its Waterfront Room. The event will feature a three-course prix fixe dinner menu with 6 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. seatings. The cost for the dinner is $59. The celebration will feature a deejay and dancing. Tickets for non-dining guests will cost $25, and there is a cash bar available. Guest Rooms rates for party-goers wanting to stay overnight will start at $229 for a standard king room.
BRUNCH BUFFET WITH SANTA Enjoy a spectacular brunch buffet with Santa at Pheasant Run Resort!
(3 yrs to 12 yrs – Children 3 and under are FREE)
Santa will be there to interact with guests and pose for photo ops throughout the brunch. Children will enjoy holiday crafts, treats, and a gift bag to take home!
Call 630-584-63020 for reservations or information • pheasantrun.com
PLAN YOUR HOLIDAYS WITH
Oscar Swan Upcoming Events:
Please call for details
1335 S. River St. | Batavia 630-879-8717 funway.com
Every Saturday at Noon, Dec. 3, 10, and 17th Christmas Around the World Luncheons
For those of you not wishing to leave the kids out of the New Year’s festivities, Funway will, once again, offer an option for families. As in years past, the entertainment complex – which offers choices like roller skating, bowling, bumper cars and arcade games – will offer a number of parties for families with children of all ages.
Friday, December 9th ~ 7pm Colonial Holiday Dinner Sunday, December 25th Christmas Day Brunch Private Holiday Brunch or Luncheon for 10 or more people Please call for details Open to the Public for Lunch and Tours Call for details
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For Parties Large or Small: • Girl’s Day Out • Anniversaries • Sunday Breakfast • Ghost Hunting • Murder Mysteries • After-the-Wedding Brunch
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ons
fo
• Reunions • Private Parties • Weddings • Ceremonies • Showers • Memorial Gatherings
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The celebration will include balloon drops, noise makers and more, says Funway owner Bob Hansen. Some parties will begin as early as 6 p.m. for families not wishing to stay out late. Spots fill up fast, Hansen says. To secure a spot at Funway’s New Year’s Eve celebration, it will take reservations as early as Dec. 1.
$
Join us on December 11th for either a 9:00 am or a 12:00 noon seating where you will dine on a wide selection of mouth-watering entrees and selections of both breakfast and lunch items.
To make a reservation, call 630-5822100.
u Funway Ultimate Entertainment Center
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KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2016 | 11
Christmas stories
take center stage at local theaters By KEVIN DRULEY
ON THE SILVER SCREEN
at Paramount Theatre
As part of Classic Movie Mondays at Paramount Theater in Aurora, classic holiday films will be screened at 7 p.m. Mondays at the end of November and during the month of December. (There also will be a film screened Tuesday, Dec. 20.) Tickets cost $1 and are available at the door. Doors open at 6:15 p.m. The bar is open during film screenings and concessions are available, too. HERE’S THE LINEUP: • NOV. 28 – “Elf” (2003) • DEC. 5 – “Miracle on 34th Street” (1947) • DEC. 12 – “It’s a Wonderful Life” (1946) • DEC. 19 – Home Alone double feature: “Home Alone” (1990) and “Home Alone 2: Lost in New York” (1992) • DEC. 20 (Tuesday) – “The Polar Express” (2004)
‘The Second City’s Nut-cracking Holiday Revue’ at the Paramount Theatre in Aurora
M
ake no mistake, officials at various Fox Valley theaters and dance companies hold an appreciation for holiday traditions. It’s apparent simply by glancing at a calendar of events.
select cast members and a backstage visit after the show.
hitting local theaters this season:
State Street Dance Studio WHERE: Performance at Batavia Fine Arts Centre, 1201 Main St., Batavia WHEN: 7 p.m. Nov. 26; 2 p.m. Nov. 27 TICKETS/INFO: www.statestreetdancestudio.com; 630-232-0444
Charles Dickens’ classic tale of Scrooge, Bob Cratchit, Tiny Tim and holiday redemption brings its heartwarming family message to the Albright Theatre Company. Past productions of time-honored stories have included what fans affectionately dub “The Albright Twist,” but theater-goers should expect plenty of tradition just the same. Tickets cost $12 for adults and $10 for students and seniors.
It’s the mystical, familiar costumes and characters performing to Tchaikovsky once more. Tickets for children ages 10 and younger cost $20 (balcony), $25 (mezzanine)and $30 (orchestra). Adult tickets cost $25 (balcony), $30 (mezzanine) and $35 (orchestra). VIP seats, located in the first three rows of the orchestra section, are $40 and include photo opportunities with
WHERE: Steel Beam Theatre 111 W. Main St., St. Charles WHEN: 8 p.m. Dec. 2, 3, 9, 10, 16, 17, 22, 23, 29 & 30; 3 p.m. Dec. 4, 11 &18 TICKETS/INFO: www.steelbeamtheatre.com; 630-587-8521
‘A CHRISTMAS CAROL’
WHERE: The Albright Theatre Company Still, some managers aren’t afraid to book contemporary 100 N. Island Ave., Batavia – if not entertainingly irreverent – takes on the classics. WHEN: 7:30 p.m. Dec. 2 & 9; 2:30 & 7:30 p.m. Dec. 3 & That’s evident with a mere look at the calendar, too. 10; 2:30 p.m. Dec.4 & 11 TICKETS/INFO: albrighttheatre.com; 630-406-8838 Lovers of stage performance will enjoy these shows
‘THE FOX VALLEY NUTCRACKER’
12 | DECEMBER 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
HOLIDAY
‘THE ULTIMATE CHRISTMAS CAROL’
www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
CRITTERS P E T
‘THE SECOND CITY’S NUTCRACKING HOLIDAY REVUE’ WHERE: The Paramount Theatre 23 E. Galena Blvd., Aurora WHEN: 8 p.m. Dec. 2, 3, 9, 10, 16, 17 & 23; 7:30 p.m. Dec. 8, 15 & 22; 3 p.m. Dec. 4, 11 & 18 TICKETS/INFO: www.paramountaurora. com; 630-896.6666 Chicago’s famed comedy troupe, The Second City, delivers its unique spin on all those (seemingly) sacred and mundane things the holiday season has to offer. Expect songs, skits and some surprises along the way. Tickets cost $36. Children ages 2 and younger are not permitted. The performance is rated R for adult language and content.
‘THE CHRISTMAS SCHOONER: A MUSICAL’
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Winter on the Farm Sunday • January 1 12-5pm
By Vero Voce School of Performing Arts WHERE: Performance will take place at Pheasant Run Resort’s Mainstage Theater, 4051 E. Main St., St. Charles WHEN: 7:30 p.m. Dec. 9 & 16; 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Dec. 10 & 17; 2 p.m. Dec.11 & 18 TICKETS/INFO: verovoce.com; 630-965-0825
Escape the house and venture out into an agricultural winter wonderland! Greet the year round animal residents and visit with farm staff. Help with winter livestock chores, tromp around the lantern-lit farmyard in snowshoes and warm your hands over a bonfire barrel. Stop in the candlelit summer kitchen for hot chocolate, cookies, festive music and a holiday thank you card craft. Tractor drawn sleigh rides are also available!
Chronicling the true story of a Michigan shipping captain, “The Christmas Schooner” figures to especially resonate with a suburban audience. The tale revolves around a captain who navigates an especially daunting Chicago winter to bring Christmas trees to homesick GermanAmerican families around the onset of the 20th Century. Tickets cost $20 for adults and $15 for students.
www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
Pamela Drive Randall Road
Webster’s dictionary defines “ultimate” as “greatest or most extreme.” When applied to the Charles Dickens story, published in 1843, the adjective means there will be a “hilarious, screwball musical send-up of the holiday favorite,” according to the Steel Beam website. Elements of the original will blend with modern references, original songs and audience participation. Tickets cost $28 for adults, $25 for seniors and $23 for students.
S H O P
Admission: RES $5/NR $8 per person (#11167) Sleigh Ride: $2 per person 5N726 Crane Rd • St. Charles, Illinois 60175 primrosefarmpark.com • 630-513-4370 HOLIDAY
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2016 | 13
A decade ago, local residents came together with a common vision: to create a beautiful and supportive place that offered free programs to strengthen, encourage, empower, educate and provide hope to people impacted by a cancer diagnosis. And a place that was fully funded by the community. On September 1, 2005, the vision became reality when LivingWell Cancer Resource Center opened its doors to its first participants. We are honored to have touched the lives of more than 17,000 patients with cancer. This year alone, the center will be visited more than 20,000 times by program participants.
partnerships that help fund our programs. Philanthropic support allows us to ensure that those who are touched by cancer will feel less alone, better informed, and more hopeful and empowered. LivingWell has been blessed with very special people to guide our work, enrich our programs and ensure there is always a warm and willing friend ready to lend a hand to families facing cancer. Our staff and volunteers serve as beacons of hope and strength, and through their giving, countless lives have been rewarded beyond measure. Lastly, I want to also acknowledge the thousands of participants who have entrusted us with their care and who, in doing so, have enriched us all. Their strength, resiliency, and care and support for each other help foster our mission to ensure people facing cancer live well.
We are privileged to work alongside hundreds of medical providers and are appreciative of the 19 hospitals and 26 oncology practices that entrust us to care for their patients, cancer survivors and family members.
In celebration,
We are grateful for the tremendous generosity from individuals, community foundations, local businesses, local grantors and hospital
Nancy Vance Executive Director LivingWell Cancer Resource Center
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Down on the farm Find a Christmas tree that makes the cut By WENDY FOSTER
For more than 100 years, Christmas trees have heralded the beginning of a much beloved and highlycelebrated season. Families around the country treasure the tradition of selecting and, often, even cutting down their own Christmas tree. Here is a list of farms to help you find the perfect Christmas tree for the holiday season.
¢ ABBEY FARMS
WHERE: 850 Butterfield Road | Aurora HOURS: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. through Dec. 23 (If visiting after dark, bring flashlights.) Abbey Farms is a nonprofit organization run by and for the monks of Marmion Abbey in Aurora. Proceeds from the enterprise benefit the continuation of different ministries performed by the monks. Abbey Farms offers a variety of pine trees for cutting on more than 120 acres. It also sell fresh pre-cut fir trees from Michigan. Trees come with a complimentary shaking and netting. Leased pets are welcome. Santa will be on site from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Dec. 5-6. For more information visit www.AbbeyFarms.org, email info@abbeyfarms.org or call 630-966-7775.
¢ KUIPERS FAMILY FARM
WHERE: 1N318 Watson Road | Maple Park HOURS: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily through Dec. 18 Kuipers offers fresh-cut pine and fir trees. Tree purchase includes shaking to remove loose needles and free apple cider donuts. Kuipers also offers handmade wreaths and unique gifts in their Orchard Shop. For more information, visit www.KuipersFamilyFarm.com or call 815-8275200.
¢ CAMELOT TREE FARM
WHERE: 16380 S. Somonauk Rd. | Dekalb HOURS: Noon to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sundays Camelot Christmas Tree Farm offers varieties that include Concolor, Fraser, Canaan, Douglas, Balsam Fir, Blue and White Spruce, White Pine and Scotch Pine. Once you have found your perfect tree, stop back at the “little red shed”
where you will find a warm atmosphere with an array of interesting farm antiques on display. Enjoy homemade oatmeal cookies, hot chocolate and coffee. For more information, call 815-7566599.
¢ ZIEGLER CHRISTMAS TREE FARM
WHERE: 42W109 Mcdonald Road | Elgin HOURS: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 29, 30, Dec. 1, 7 and 8 (until sold out for the year) Baling and shaking are free, and saws are available for borrowing. The farm is dog-friendly, but dogs must be on a leash. Pets must be both dog- and people-friendly, as well. You-Choose and You-Cut varieties include Austrian Pine, Balsam Fir, Black Hills Spruce, Blue Spruce, Canaan Fir, White Fir (Concolor Fir), Douglas Fir, Scotch Pine, White Pine and White Spruce. For more information, email jztrees@yahoo.com or call 847-464-5776.
CHRISTMAS TREES CHOOSE AND CUT YOUR OWN
¢ ANTHONY’S TREE FARM
l i n y e k S
• Snow blowing for brick paver driveways • Professional Snow Plowing • Fully licensed and insured • Family-owned and operated • Serving the Fox Valley for over 28 years
WHERE: 3200 Raycraft Road | Woodstock HOURS: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 5-6 and Dec. 12-13 Anthony’s Tree Farm in Woodstock offers pre-cut and cut-your-own trees. Dogs are welcome to the family-owned farm, but must be on a leash. Saws and baling are provided. Credit cards are not accepted. For more information, visit www. AnthonysTreeFarm.com.
TAMMEN TREEBERRY FARM 37131 Essex Rd. Wilmington, IL 60481 25 Miles South of Joliet
Scotch & White Pine, Fraser & Douglas
¢ BEN’S CHRISTMAS TREE FARM
WHERE: 7719 Ryan Road | Harvard HOURS: 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. weekends and 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Fridays through Dec. 18
Open Daily: 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. After Thanksgiving Take 47 South to Route 113. Turn left and go 13 1/2 miles to Essex Road, turn right and go South 3 1/2 miles. SM-CL0356056
Since 1982, Ben’s farm has grown 100 percent hand-pruned trees. The farm offers nine varieties of firs, spruces and pines, from 6 to 15 feet tall. Ben’s, which utilizes organic farming practices, provides saws, twine and free wagon rides into the fields and back. For more information, visit www. BensTreeFarm.com, email TreeFarm@gmail. com or call 630-279-0216.
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Deck the Halls
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Fresh greens, wreaths and trees
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M-F 8-6; SAT. 8-5; SUN. 11-4 630-584-2024 www.trellisfarm.com
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KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2016 | 17
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¢ BILL’S EVERGREEN TREE FARM WHERE: 3102 Miller Road | Mchenry HOURS: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekends through Dec. 25
Bill’s Evergreen Tree Farm has been familyowned and operated for more than 20 years. The cut-your-own-tree farm offers a more backwoods feel of an experience. In the peaceful outdoors, there are many types of trees, such as Colorado Blue Spruce, Douglas Fir, Norway Spruce, White Fir (Concolor Fir), White Pine and White Spruce. For more information, visit www. BillsFriendlyEvergreenTreeFarm/weebly.com or call 847-525-9809.
¢ LEE’S TREES
WHERE: 45W002 Lees Road | Lily Lake HOURS: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekends through Dec. 18 Visitors can choose and harvest their own trees, which will be shaken, baled and loaded by staff. Varieties include Scotch pine, white pine, Canaan fir, balsam fir and more. Customers also can choose pre-cut trees, which are harvested weekly from Wisconsin. Lee’s Trees also sells handcrafted wreaths and decorations. Refreshments are free, including homemade cookies. For more information, visit www. LeesTreesUSA.com, email LeesTrees94@aol.com or call 630-365-2116.
wagon rides and pony rides. Try its famous hot cinnamon rolls and a cup of hot chocolate before shopping for ornaments and gifts. For more information, visit www.oneystreefarm.com/ christmas.php.
¢ PINE-APPLE FARM
WHERE: 309 Three Oaks Road | Cary HOURS: 9 a.m. to dusk on weekends through Dec. 13 and 11 a.m. to dusk Dec. 19-20 (Special appointments available by phone or email) Cut –your-own and fresh-cut trees available. Prices include use of saws, shaking, baling and loading. For more information, visit www. Pine-AppleFarm.com, call 847-639-3248 or email pinetree309@yahoo.com.
¢ PIONEER TREE FARM
WHERE: 4614 Pioneer Road | Mchenry HOURS: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekends until Christmas day Trees are raised organically and pruned by hand, motivated by the owners’ love of nature. Purchase of a tree includes free wagon rides, tree shaking and baling, and the use of hand saws. Hot refreshments and handcrafted holiday items are available. Pioneer Tree Farm donates 10 percent of tree sales to Environmental Defenders of McHenry County. For more information, visit www.PioneerTreeFarm.com or call 815-385-8512.
¢ RICHARDSON ADVENTURE FARM
WHERE: 9407 Richardson Road | Spring Grove HOURS: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily through Dec. 23 Boasting one of the largest selections of trees in Illinois, Richardson Farms has more than 50,000 trees scattered across 75 acres. Free wagon rides out into the fields are offered on weekends. Pre-cut trees also are available and individually priced. Free shaking and baling of trees. The heated barn has decorations for sale, as well as free hot chocolate, fresh donuts, fudge, kettle corn and more. For more information, visit www. RichardsonFarm.com or call 815-675-9729.
¢ SPRING BLUFF NURSERY
WHERE: 41W130 Norris Road | Sugar Grove HOURS: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekends through Dec. 11 In addition to cut-your-own Christmas trees, Spring Bluff will feature a holiday sale of locally produced and handmade Christmas décor. There will be free hayrides to the Christmas tree fields, a campfire and complimentary hot chocolate. For more information, visit www. SpringBluffNursery.com or call 630-466-4278 plants@SpringBluffNursery.com.
¢ MOEHLING CHRISTMAS TREE FARM
WHERE: 10904 Bull Valley Road | Woodstock HOURS: 9 a.m. to sundown on weekends through Christmas More than 14,000 trees have been planted on the 15-acre parcel. Saws are provided for use. A craft show and hot beverages are available. For more information, visit www. MoehlingChristmasTreeFarm.com or call 815355-1738.
¢ ONEY’S TREE FARM
WHERE: 16608 Route 14 | Woodstock HOURS: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. through Dec. 11 Known as the oldest and largest tree farm in Northern Illinois, Oney’s features 60 acres of Christmas trees, including harvest-your-own, pre-cut and trees with roots for planting. There are nine different varieties and thousands of trees from which to choose. Weekends will include visits by Mrs. Claus, free horse-drawn
18 | DECEMBER 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
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Restaurant Located at 131 S. First St., St. Charles 630.444.0202 | www.isaccokitchen.com isacco@isaccokitchen.com Private Chef • At Home Cooking • Cooking Demos
Festive fun for the whole family By KELSEY O’CONNOR
The holidays are a time for family. From visits with Santa to spectacular lights displays, there’s something festive for everyone. Make the season a little brighter with these kid-friendly holiday events:
¢ 7th annual Holiday Lights at Mooseheart Child City and School WHEN: 5 to 9 p.m. through Dec. 31 WHERE: Directly north of Mooseheart Road on Route 31, Mooseheart INFO: mooseheart.org Enjoy a night of holiday lights and activities at the Mooseheart campus. Visitors can drive through of one of the largest holiday light shows in the area, which spans 1.8 miles and features dozens of illuminated displays. Santa will pay a visit to the Mooseheart Field house from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. Dec. 9-11 and Dec. 18-20. There also will be crafts, games, hot cocoa and cookies. Admission is $10 per car.
¢ Breakfast with Santa at Hotel Baker WHEN: 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Dec. 4, 11 and 18 WHERE: 100 W. Main St., St. Charles INFO: Hotelbaker.com
features a variety of favorites, including mini waffles, scrambled eggs, huevos rancheros and assorted pastries. Call and reserve a spot early. The cost for adults is $23, $18 for children ages 3 to 13, and the event is free for children under age 3. There will be an extra fee for framed photos with Santa.
¢ Candlelight at Durant House Museum WHEN: 2 to 6 p.m. Dec. 10-11 WHERE: 37W700 Dean St., LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve in St. Charles INFO: ppfv.org Learn about local history and enjoy 19th centurystyle merriment at Durant House Museum. The prairie homestead and museum, decorated with authentic period decor, will be adorned with candles, evergreens and a Christmas tree. The holiday celebration will be topped off with festive music, hot cider and baked treats. Admission is $3 a person.
¢ Candlelight at the Inn at Garfield Farm and Museum WHEN: 3 to 7 p.m. Dec. 3-4 WHERE: Garfield Road north of Illinois 38, Campton Hills INFO: garfieldfarm.org
Join Santa and his elf for the Hotel Baker’s annual holiday breakfast. Guests will enjoy a menu that The Candlelight Reception is one of the most
popular events at the centuries-old farmhouse and museum. Guests can take a guided tour and experience what it was like to live in the 18th century. Live music will be played in the ballroom and refreshments will be available. Afterwards, follow the glowing lantern path up to Burr House to watch a hearthside cooking demonstration. No fee, but donations are welcome.
¢ Polar Express Story Time Train WHEN: 4:29 to 7:12 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 4, and Saturday, Dec. 3, and Dec. 10 WHERE: Geneva Metra Station, 328 Crescent Place, Geneva WHEN: 10:37 a.m. to 1:27 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 1, and Tuesday, Dec. 6 WHERE: LaFox Metra Station, 40 West 999 Keslinger Road INFO: santainchicago.com Come take a ride on the Polar Express to the North Pole. Families can board the train with Santa and hear him read a childhood favorite, “The Polar Express.” On weekends, the train will depart from LaFox and stop in Wheaton for dinner at Gino’s East. Weekday trains will stop in Glen Ellyn for lunch at Two Toots Whistle & Grill. Weekday trips are $26 for St. Charles residents and $49 for non-residents. Weekend trips cost $29 for residents and $43 for non-residents.
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View our Special Offers at www.HamiltonHouseDentistry.com 22 | DECEMBER 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
Happy Holidays
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KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2016 | 23
Bazaar gifts
Visit winter flea market and arts fairs for one-of-a-kind finds By ELIZABETH HARMON Is someone on your gift list notoriously hard to shop for? Is your budget already stretched to the breaking point? Are you tired of the same old, same old items found in big box stores?
Tom Liebing plays one of his drums made from a propane tank.
Felted figures created by Silke Sordyl
24 | DECEMBER 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
The event is a juried show, which means exhibitors must submit samples of their work to a judging panel in order to be featured.
Relax, breathe easy. There are plenty of unique shopping “Many of the participants are opportunities in Kane County this students who have taken classes December. at the Fine Line, our instructors also exhibit, and we also have Whether its hand-crafted toys, local artists who have sold their jewelry, vintage china, fine furniture or musical instruments work here previously,” says shop manager Annie Kordesh. made from recycled propane tanks, you’ll find fun, creative and Selections include hand-woven unique gifts at local arts fairs and table linens, and other household flea markets this month. Not only items, knitted items, scarves, will you be helping to support batiks, and screen printed local artists, you’ll be able to find clothing and accessories. There one-of-a-kind items for all of the also is jewelry, metal work and special people in your life. You ceramics. Prices range from might even find a little something under $10 to more than $100. for yourself. “People can find one-of-a-kind So mark your calendars, grab items that have an interesting your holiday list and let the story, and aren’t the standard shopping season begin. things you see at a normal retail outlet,” Kordesh says. ¢ Christmas
at the Fine Line Whimsical wood decorations created by Amy Roberts of Aw Shucks.
food and the artists will be on hand to talk about their work.
For the past three decades, the Fine Line Creative Art Center’s Christmas at the Fine Line holiday show has offered an array of one-of-a-kind gifts crafted by local artists. This year’s show will open Friday, Dec. 2, and run through Saturday, Dec. 10, at the Fine Line, 37W570 Bolcum Road, St. Charles. The show’s opening night also will include music, HOLIDAY
¢ Kane County Flea Market The Kane County Flea Market, held monthly from March to December, is not only a great place to shop for gifts, it also offers lots of holiday décor, including wreathes and Christmas trees. The market will take place Saturday, Dec. 3, and Sunday, Dec. 4, at the Kane
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for Massage
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Hand-painted ceramic pieces created by Beth Fuhrman.
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HAPPY HOLIDAYS
MONDAY
THURSDAY
Roger Pfalzgras will be at the Pheasant Run Mega Center.
County Fairgrounds, 525 S. Randall Road, St. Charles. “All our buildings are full, so we should have about 800 vendors,” says manager Lori Hopkins. For gift shoppers, the flea market offers more variety than conventional stores. You’ll find antiques, arts and crafts, collectables, vintage items, hand-made clothing and accessories, décor, household items and more.
Miller Lite (25oz) 4.00 Zombies 6.99
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MONDAY
.99
Meatloaf 11 Homemade za Half Price Piz Wings 75¢ Buffalo
TUESDAY
TUESDAY
Sauza Margaritas 5.00 Corona & Corona Light 4.00
FRIDAY
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Fry .99 Friday Fish N PERCH 11 N EAT OCEA D) 12.99 ALL YOU CA CO D RE TE (BAT FISH & CHIPS e Juicy Kind Prime Rib Th 14oz 24.99 12oz 22.99 • 10oz 19.99 •
Martinis 5.50 Coors Light 3.00 Daiquiris 5.00 Strawberry, Banana, Raspberry or Mango
.99 Stroganoff 13 Filet Mignon SATURDAY icy Kind ers rg Bu ice Pr Half e Ju r menu! Prime Rib Th 14oz 24.99 burger on ou y an f of lf Ha 12oz 22.99 • 10oz 19.99 • Fingers en ick Ch ¢ 75
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SUNDAY
-Continued on page 26 www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
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There are price advantages, too. “You can usually haggle with the vendors to bring down the price. You can’t do that in a regular store,” she says.
Guinness 5.00 Rum Barrel 6.99 Half Price Bottles of Wine
Can’t finish? Take it home!
-Eat All-You-Can gers 11.99 Chicken Fin e Juicy Kind Prime Rib Th 14oz 24.99 12oz 22.99 • • .99 19 oz 10
“There’s both old and new items. If it’s ever been made, it’s probably at the flea market,” Hopkins says.
THURSDAY
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WEST DUNDEE • 847-428-4483 • 125 Washington Street HOLIDAY
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2016 | 25
Customer Appreciation Sale
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off
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Women’s Clothing Boutique in Downtown Geneva HOURS: TUESDAY-SATURDAY 10-5 | SUNDAY 12-4 | CLOSED MONDAY 630 457 5445 ~ 219 W. STATE ST, GENEVA
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-Continued from page 25
¢ Festival of Arts and Crafts at Pheasant Run Resort The Festival of Arts and Crafts at Pheasant Run Resort will take place Saturday, Dec. 10, and Sunday, Dec. 11. The two-day festival will feature up to 200 artisans, crafters and fine artists at the Pheasant Run Resort Mega Center, 4051 E. Main St., St. Charles. Organizer Donna Hansen, president of Step by Step Promotions, says that what sets this show apart is that everything sold there has been made by the exhibitors. “It’s an authentic arts and crafts show,” she says. “We don’t have home-based business, like Tupperware – only things that have been produced by the people selling there.” Exhibitors come from around the Midwest, and items available for purchase include stained glass décor, ceramics, oak furniture, garden items, holiday items, wooden toys, photographs and fine art.
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WWW.CROSSINGSATGENEVA.COM 26 | DECEMBER 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
HOLIDAY
There are off-beat items too, such as propane tanks recycled into drums and guitars fashioned from cigar boxes. “They play like a real guitar. If you want to have a crazy band, here’s where you’ll find it,” says Hansen.
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HOLIDAY
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AND BETTER THAN EVER!
Serving breakfast & lunch in a cozy, friendly atmosphere in historic downtown St. Charles.
• Come visit us and see our expanded & remodeled space • Same great menu with more variety • Breakfast served all day 11 N. Third Street St. Charles 630-377-0797 abbysbreakfastandlunch.com OPEN DAILY • 7:30AM–3PM KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2016 | 27
YOU CAN TRY IT!
Making your own decisions about what to do with your life is exciting but can feel overwhelming. Our students tell us it’s a bit more manageable here, as they can explore their academic and extracurricular interests in an environment that’s comfortable and supportive, and at a tuition rate that’s reasonable.
“Coming to Waubonsee and playing basketball was so good for me. One of my biggest lessons was time management. Until you get to college, it’s all decided for you.” — Julianna Wadsworth
Spring Classes begin Jan. 17. Learn more at www.waubonsee.edu/YouCan WCC does not discriminate based on any characteristic protected by law in its programs and activities.
FOR A GREAT LOCAL DEALS, DON’T JUST WING IT… Packages for
Save 50% off Gelato through 12/31/16 by showing your receipt from your Double Yolk purchase!
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Spirits of the season
SWANKY SPOTS FOR HOLIDAY COCKTAILS By STEPHANIE N. GRIMOLDBY | Photos shot by RON MCKINNEY at THE PATTEN HOUSE IN GENEVA
Y
ou don’t have to travel to Chicago to find trendy restaurants and bars that boast award-winning drinks and atmospheres perfect for holiday celebrations. Kane County is home to posh places perfect for an evening of cocktails with friends, an intimate dinner for two or a hearty drink around a fire.
Here are some area favorites for your holiday cocktail adventures:
ö PATTEN HOUSE RESTAURANT AND BAR 124 S. 2ND ST. | GENEVA 630-492-5040 You can’t miss the historic charm of Patten House Restaurant and Bar in Geneva. The two-story, red brick building dates back to 1857, and – for the holidays – it’s decorated to the nines, says owner Nancy Luyten.
With two fireplaces glowing all winter long, Patten House is a perfect place to relax and enjoy the season, Luyten says.
ö ALL CHOCOLATE KITCHEN’S PRIMO 29 S. THIRD ST. | GENEVA 630-232-2280 www.allchocolatekitchenprimo.com Patrons of All Chocolate Kitchen’s PRIMO restaurant in Geneva say the experience is like walking into a downtown Los Angeles or New York lounge, says owner Chef Alain Roby. The intimate, 21-and-older establishment is open Wednesday through Sunday evenings, with classical jazz often setting the mood. Roby offers a wonderful wine, beer and champagne list – plus top-of-the-line caviar – with his menu, which includes chef plates, artisanal cheeses, charcuterie and desserts. But the real showstopper is PRIMO’s signature drink: the chocolate martini.
“Our huge outdoor area is decorated with The glass is lined with melted chocolate which, lights and Christmas trees, our mantels are all when hardened, is then filled with a chocolate decorated, our rails are decorated – it’s beautiful,” martini, Roby says. she says. “People are going crazy licking the glass – it’s The spirit of New Orleans shines through in the great,” he says. restaurant’s Cajun fare, but you’ll see its fusion in ö CHARLESTON ON THE RIVER the bar area, too. Patten House always offers its signature Sazerac, 1 W. ILLINOIS ST. | ST. CHARLES 630-549-7712 the cocktail of the Big Easy, but the restaurant www.charlestonontheriver.com also will prepare classic holiday cocktails for visitors, like old fashions, grasshoppers, hot toddies and Manhattans, plus special hot drinks to go along with its regular offering of craft beers and wines.
A restaurant in St. Charles has managed to create the perfect ambiance between fine dining and a casual bar, and it also happens to have a perfect view, too.
-Continued on page 32
-Continued from page 31 Charleston on the River mixes the charm of its brick walls and industrial chandeliers with the elegance of the Fox Fiver, which can be seen from any seat in the house, says owner Marwan Taib. The upscale restaurant serves American modern cuisine that is affordable, and it’s a great place for a dinner date. The restaurant has launched a new drink menu, with creative cocktails and martinis fabricated by a mixologist. A couple of the new specials include the Liquid Dream Martini (Absolut Vanilla vodka, Godiva dark chocolate liqueur and whipped cream) and the Foxy Lady (Absolut Citron vodka, Absolut Raspberri, limoncello, fresh lemon, lemonade and a sugared rim).
ö FIORA’S 317 S. THIRD ST. | GENEVA 630-262-1317 www.fioras.com A “home-away-from-home” experience awaits you at Fiora’s, a Geneva restaurant that offers European-influenced American cuisine. Once the snow arrives, 1,000 twinkling lights make the converted yellow house look like a winter wonderland, owner Ann Anastasio says, adding that the view of downtown Geneva is breathtaking, and veteran servers make you feel at home immediately. During the winter season, three specialty cocktails will entice visitors to stay and enjoy the old-world charm of Fiora’s: A Pumpkin Cream Martini (pumpkin Baileys and RumChata), an Apple Cider Mimosa (Prosecco, apple cider and a cinnamon sugar rim), and a Bourbon Berry Manhattan will accompany the restaurant’s regular drink menu, which includes a superb wine collection. Throughout the year, Fiora’s offers drink specials, such as half-price cocktails on Tuesdays, halfprice bottles of wine on Wednesdays and halfprice bottles of beer on Thursdays.
ö JULIETTE’S 524 W. STATE ST. | GENEVA 630-402-0288 For a young, trendy, upbeat experience, visit Juliette’s in Geneva. Formerly Haché Moderne Brasserie, Juliette’s recently underwent a concept change, with Evan Scott and David Reyes – chef/owner of The Finery & Blacksmith Bar in St. Charles – taking the reigns. Juliette’s offers modern cuisine with traditional French influences.
Its new vibe melds with the restaurant’s tried and true French cuisine overseen by veteran Chef Francois Sanchez. A fresh, top-of-the-line cocktail program will feature high-end, hand-crafted drinks with detailed mixology, and special seasonal items will be available – all in an approachable, affordable manner, Scott says. Additionally, experienced wine steward J.D. Adamski will guide customers through their food and wine pairings – a unique offer for the Fox Valley area.
ö ROX CITY GRILL AT HOTEL BAKER 100 W. MAIN ST. | ST. CHARLES 630-845-5800 www.roxcitygrill.com Inside the historic Hotel Baker in St. Charles lies the modern, yet subtle ROX City Grill, known for its excellent martinis and live entertainment lounge open year-round Thursday through Saturday. It’s a quaint place, complete with a full-service bar and a romantic dining room, leaving options open for a unique experience, says Mike Pegahi, general manager. For the holiday season, ROX City Grill will offer several specialty cocktails. The Jack Frost is a mix of white Godiva liqueur, peppermint schnapps and vanilla vodka served in a mintrimmed glass. The Mistletoe features Midori liqueur, pineapple juice, Malibu rum, vodka and a little Chambord Liqueur is added to make this red and green cocktail one fit for the holidays.
ö SHAKOU ST. CHARLES 312 W. MAIN ST. | ST. CHARLES 630-444-0850 www.shakousushi.com/st-charles If you’re looking for a trendy place with an urban vibe, try Shakou St. Charles. Located in the heart of downtown St. Charles, it boasts city-caliber service, modern Asian cuisine and a sleek, hip atmosphere. “You don’t have to do your holidays in the city,” says Randi Moxi, marketing director. “[We’re] bringing the city to the suburbs.” Shakou – Japanese for “social life” – will offer a special holiday cocktail menu, featuring Snowbells (champagne split, white cranberry and Triple Sec, garnished with rosemary sprig and cranberry), Holiday Mule (Breckenridge bourbon, ginger liqueur, ginger beer garnished
with orange, cranberry and a cinnamon stick), and Winter Wonderland (vanilla vodka, peppermint schnapps and white chocolate liqueur, topped with whipped cream and garnished with a mini candy cane).
ö TURF ROOM 1033 KILBERY ST. | NORTH AURORA 630-906-9300 theturfroomrestaurant.com To really cozy up for the holidays, visit the Turf Room in North Aurora. Several natural wood-burning fireplaces – including a foursided fireplace – create a warm, comfortable atmosphere, says owner Parker Grabowski. “It kind of feels like a really upscale ski lodge in the winter time,” he says. The restaurant has an impressive wine list of more than 750 selections, with another 60 wines available by the glass. But it’s known for its bar, which rotates 20 specialty drinks, and its martinis are routinely voted No. 1 in the area, Grabowski says. Every juice is hand-squeezed and ingredients, such as ginger syrup, are made onsite. The recently expanded restaurant can accommodate cocktail parties up to 50 people, while several different private dining experiences are available.
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DINING & ENTERTAINING
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2016 | 33
Order Now for the Holidays! Featuring Our Own Holiday Sausages • Swedish • Smoked Polish • Fresh Polish • Lithuanian • Hungarian & More
Featuring Our Own Smoked Hams • Spiral Sliced• Bone In • Boneless
12 Varieties of Beef Jerky and 14 Varieties of Snack Stix for Holiday Gifts & Parties www.ReamsMeatMarket.com Fine Quality Meats & Sausages Fresh • Aged • Cured • Smoked
250 Main St. Downtown Elburn • West side of Route 47 • 630.365.6461 Hours: Mon-Fri: 9am-6pm • Sat: 9am-4pm • Sun: 10am-4pm Christmas Eve 9am-2pm Closed Christmas Day - December 25, 2016
GALENA CELLARS VINEYARD & WINERY Holiday wine and wine gifts Add festive flavor to your holidays with Galena Cellars’ seasonal favorites: Merry Merry Cranberry and Spiced Apple. Serve chilled or enjoy warmed with mulling spices on a frosty winter’s eve. Add a splash of orange juice to our sparkling cranberry to create your own “Crimosa / Mimosa.” Stock up on one of our sparkling varieties to ring in the New
Year, or try our new Wedding Cake wine with a delicious almond flavor. Giving wine? Make it personal with custom labels, or give the gift of Wine Club: three bottles delivered four times per year, handpicked by our winemaker. Unique accessories like the wine glass chandelier, artistan ornaments and handcrafted glasses, round out your gift choices. 477 S. 3RD ST. | GENEVA 630-232-9463 WWW.GALENACELLARS.COM
Photos by Joe Perez
BEE-ATTITUDES ANTIQUES Located in a beautiful Victorian home on the corner of Batavia Ave. and Wilson St., we have eight dealers in our shop at the moment, so there is sure to be something for everyone. Glassware, artwork, lighting fixtures, oriental decor, jewelry, mirrors and silverware. In furniture, we carry various styles, including French, Victorian and cottage chic. RT. 31 & WILSON ST. | BATAVIA | 630-761-0813 OPEN 10 A.M. TO 5 P.M. MONDAY-SATURDAY AND NOON TO 5 P.M. SUNDAY
AMERICA'S TREASURES
America’s Treasures Antiques, Furniture and Gifts is a 5,800-squarefoot space and has more than 30 dealers. Items available for purchase include furniture, shabby chic, traditional antiques, lighting and home décor. The shop also offers Vintage Market & Design paint, Miss Mustard Seed Milk paint and Fusion Mineral paint. A local delivery service is available for large or heavy items. Follow America’s Treasures on Facebook to see all of the shop’s new items. 10 N. THIRD ST. | GENEVA | 630-208-1003 WWW.AMERICASTREASURESGENEVA.COM OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK: 10 A.M. TO 5 P.M. MONDAY - FRIDAY; 10 A.M. TO 6 P.M. SATURDAY; AND 11 A.M. TO 5 P.M. SUNDAY
‘Tis the Season BUSINESS & CIVIC
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2016 | 35
CLASS OF 2016-17 HONORED AT ANNUAL LUNCHEON The Women of Distinction class of 201617 were honored during the fifth annual Women of Distinction luncheon in October at the St. Charles Country Club. The honorees are local women who have made a difference in Kane County and who are representative role models as leaders in their fields and communities. Honorees will be profiled each month in Kane County Magazine. The event was sponsored by Shaw Media – owner of the Kane County Chronicle and Kane County Magazine – along with Caldwell Consulting Group, State Street Jewelers, Blue Goose Market, Elements Massage, Town and Country Gardens and Vanishing Ink.
BATAVIA BOOSTER
Real estate agent Diane Anderson connects with community through volunteer work By MELISSA RUBALCABA RISKE | Photo by RON MCKINNEY
A
s a real estate agent, Diane Anderson has earned top honors for her work and praise for the volume of properties sold.
But the Tri-Cities are more than an area where she works. For Anderson, Batavia is the town where she and her husband have raised their children and volunteered – side-by-side – with neighbors at school functions and with local programs. “We all work together and help each other out; that’s what I love about Batavia,” says Anderson. Everyone works together, and we all support each other.” Anderson moved to Batavia almost 30 years ago. Newly married, she and her husband, Mark, sought a place to settle and raise a family. Along with raising children, Anderson dedicated time to helping her husband with his construction business, Dimark, Inc. Along with handling the accounting, she gave input on interior design projects and helped with investment properties, too. Several years ago, Anderson carved out a new career path as a real estate agent for Baird and Warner. She’s earned an award as a top agent and, in 2015, her property sales topped $10 million. “I know Batavia so well,” Anderson says. “I love my job.” Through the years, Anderson has found ways to connect with her community. When her children were young, she joined the Batavia Mothers’ Club Foundation and served as the organization’s president. “It was a way for us moms to network and raise money,” Anderson says, adding that the group supported nonprofits and local programs. When her children entered school, Anderson joined the Louise White Parent Teacher Organization, volunteering her time at the school and, again, spent time networking with other
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parents. It was with the Louise White Parent Teacher Organization that she met fellow mom Joanne Spitz, and the two have remained friends more than 20 years. From high school boosters to post-prom committee, Anderson has found various ways to volunteer. And her dedication goes well beyond the school community. When a friend shared news of a family member coping with breast cancer, Anderson felt compelled to help. She and a friend, Michelle “Mike” Burke, started the Batavia Bunco for Breast Cancer fundraiser, which quickly became a popular event and has raised thousands of dollars. Much of the money raised was donated to research. Earlier this year, Anderson also was diagnosed with breast cancer. “I know I’m going to beat this,” Anderson says. When Spitz started CHIP IN, a program to help families in need in Batavia, it was Anderson who was the first to gather donations, Spitz says. “She is always so positive,” Spitz says. “She’s a great woman and a good friend.” Anderson says that she tries to help where she can, but there’s more to her charitable endeavors. As a child, Anderson remembers her family facing difficult times when food was limited and there was no money for presents during the holidays. “When I was growing up, I didn’t have a lot,” Anderson says. “Being able to help others is like helping someone who was like me as a child.”
“When I was growing up, I didn’t have a lot. Being able to help others is like helping someone who was like me as a child.”
Whether she is organizing a community garage sale fundraiser or coordinating the annual Batavia Woman’s Club Fashion Show, Anderson dives into each project with a positive attitude and unstoppable energy. “She’s a force to be reckoned with,” Spitz says. “She is generous to so many.”
BUSINESS & CIVIC
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2016 | 37
Photos provided
Geneva savors tradition with Christmas Walk and Holiday House Tour By KEVIN DRULEY
38 | DECEMBER 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
In the time one might take to swallow a gumdrop or unwrap a small gift, Geneva Chamber of Commerce communications director Laura Rush channels the spirit of the city’s holiday crown jewel.
of light in the holidays, appears to give Swedish cookies to those gathered.
“We don’t mess with tradition,” she says.
“People who came as kids come back with their families; it’s the beginning of the holidays for all,” Rush says. “When that tree lights and the crowd goes ‘Ahh,’ you get goosebumps. Tradition is very important all year long, but seems especially [valued] during the holidays. … What has been perfect for all those years doesn’t need to change.”
Then, the Great Tree on the courthouse lawn will be lit, helping illuminate the final stages of Santa Claus’ journey from the North Pole. Once Christmas evokes numerous emotions for many, he and Mrs. Claus arrive, they will welcome and the Geneva Christmas Walk & Holiday House visitors to their gingerbread home. Christmas caroling, horse-drawn carriage rides, snacks and Tour hardly is immune to the nostalgia of the season. Rush used just five words to explain why. merriment will commence for the young and old. The Chamber organizes the festivities, which culminate with the Christmas Walk from 6 to 9:30 p.m. Dec. 2 on the Geneva courthouse square. Graham’s Chocolates will present the first candy cane of the season to Mayor Kevin Burns before Santa Lucia, the Swedish symbol HOME & LIFESTYLE
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When You Want to Give the Perfect Gift Consider a Geneva Gift Certificate One Size Fits All • No Expiration Date Redeemable at over 165 stores and restaurants
The Great Tree traditionally has been a conversation piece at the event. It stands 50 feet tall and turns 34 in 2016. The tree will feature 2,400 large colored lights and 2,000 small clear lights, and more than 100 ornaments – each made by children from Geneva. Some attendees find revelry away from downtown, as they participate in the Holiday House Tour, which will take place from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Dec. 2 and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Dec. 3. The tour will showcase five Geneva homes decorated in exemplary Christmas spirit. “We have had people who have been on (the tour) every year,” Rush says. “They bring their wives, husbands, sisters, sistersin-law, best friends, mothers, daughters, et cetera. Attendees can’t wait to see which homes are on the tour. We have had great weather, and not so great weather for it, but the crowds never cease. I have seen long lines of people, smiling, waiting to go into homes.”
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Holiday House Tour tickets cost $30 and include traditional holiday tea from 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Dec. 2 and from 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Dec. 3, at First Congregational Church, 327 Hamilton St., Geneva. This year’s featured homes feature a Queen Anne Stick cottage constructed in 1893, separate houses built in 1898, a 1930 English cottage and a 2016 Prairie style home inspired by the work of Frank Lloyd Wright. u For more information, log on to www. genevachamber.com/christmas_walk.php.
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KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2016 | 39
GREEN THUMB GIVING
A holiday gift guide for gardeners with MEAGAN PROVENCHER
T
hose who enjoy gardening don’t often receive the tools of the trade during holiday giftexchanges. But there are all kinds of awesome gifts that the gardener in your life would love to get versus another scented candle or a fuzzy sweater.
Here’s a list of some of my favorite things that may help you with your gift selections: ¢ Felco No. 2 Pruners These are the gold standard in the industry. Our crews use them, and there is no substitute. The Felco pruners are sharp (I have the scars to prove it!), sturdy and easily maintained. Every gardener should have a pair. ¢ A gift certificate to a local nursery During the winter, nothing is better than thinking about spring and knowing that you will be able to buy plants again soon.
¢ Bird houses, feeders and baths Gardeners love to take care of their feathered friends. ¢ Wind chimes Drown out the sounds of a busy street, nearby passing trains or other obnoxious noises so that the gift recipient can relax in the garden. (But mostly, chimes are great for annoying your husband when he hits his head on them while mowing the lawn.) ¢ Battery-powered tools These have come a long way and are great for the environment. Check out the new lawn mowers, leaf blowers and chainsaws that run on improved rechargeable batteries. ¢ A membership to The Morton Arboretum or The Chicago Botanic Garden Multiple visits to the sanctuaries in our urban landscape is the gift that keeps on giving. ¢ Houseplants and terrariums Bring the outdoors in during the winter season. ¢ Pottery Planters don’t last forever, so surprise your favorite gardener with some new pots for his or her front stoop or patio. ¢ A nice, sharp spade Did you know that the tools you purchase at stores are NOT pre-sharpened? A nice sturdy spade or shovel is a welcomed gift and go the extra mile by having it professionally sharpened. When digging in heavy, clay soils, it makes all the difference.
40 | DECEMBER 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
HOME & LIFESTYLE
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Get Ready for the Holidays at Wasco Nursery & Garden Center
Your Holiday Decorating Headquarters
Find a huge assortment of Christmas greens, branches, berries and more at Wasco Nursery, plus a large selection of containers to inspire your holiday decorating creations. We have all the materials to help you create your holiday décor whether you want a natural look with cones, seed pods and vines or a brighter look with painted stems, glittered balls and metallic accents.
¢ Garden art Benches, fountains and gnomes – oh, my! Just don’t go overboard. My rule of thumb is to display one piece of art in the garden for every 20 to 30 feet.
Holiday Happenings at Wasco Nursery
¢ Garden wear Hats, aprons and gloves make great stocking stuffers. These are items that a good gardener goes through quickly, yet never seems to buy for themselves. Treat the gardener in your life to a nice pair of leather gloves, a hat for sun protection or sturdy rubber boots for schlepping through wet grass.
Holiday Decorating Seminars
Saturday, November 19, 2016 10:00 am and 1:00 pm
Holiday Open House
Thursday, December 1, 2016 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm
Often, another great gift for a gardener is help. Offer to help clean up his or her garden in the spring or plant annuals for him or her. Send your children over to rake leaves or mow the lawn. Even just offer to stop by to have a cup of coffee and enjoy the sights of the garden. Every gardener I know likes to share their handiwork with visitors and – sometimes – they might share a plant or two, also.
Visit Santa and Mrs. Claus
Saturdays, December 3 and 10, 2016 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm
Enjoy the holidays and the winter landscape. Here’s hoping we have a quick winter and a beautiful spring.
Meagan is the 2016 Illinois Certified Nursery Professional of the Year and the Sr. Landscape Designer for Wasco Nursery & Garden Center. She can be reached at 630-584-4424 or design@wasconursery.com.
The perfect gift for anyone on your list is a Wasco Nursery Gift Certificate, always available in any amount.
91 “Meeting your growing needs since 1925.” 41W781 Route 64 | St. Charles | 630-584-4424 | wasconursery.com
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HOME & LIFESTYLE
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2016 | 41
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How many times have you made a New Year’s resolution and forgotten all about it in a few months? Weeks? Days? That day?
The GlassHalf-Full Guy:
Your New Year’s realization By PETER STADALSKY
Rather than being staunch on this year’s resolution, reach for a New Year’s realization. I have found that it is nearly impossible to force myself to change. Think about all of the things you’ve tried to change about yourself, but – somehow – you remain the same. The problem with trying to create change through force is that if you don’t succeed, you’ll end up beating yourself up about it. Then you’ve not only missed the mark, but you’ve become your own worst enemy. With self-acceptance comes the freedom to change. I have never been a morning person, and I used to get so angry at myself for continuously sleeping in. I’d call myself lazy and unmotivated. But when I finally accepted that maybe I am just a person who runs on a later clock – all of a sudden – I started
trying to wake up just a little earlier each day. Acceptance is not an excuse to continue bad behavior, it’s coming to grips with the reality of how things are right now. Once I start walking away from denial, I begin moving toward change. And as my shortcomings are moved out of the way, the good in me can peek through. We’ve all got great things inside of us. We are already loving, kind, tolerant and peaceful. But there just happens to be some frustration, irritability, intolerance and chaos mixed into the bag, too. We’re only human. You may not be able to change the world around you to fit your own ideals, but you do have control over how you react to things. By simply changing your reactions to people and circumstances, you can being to change your life. So, the next time someone becomes a real pain in the neck, focus on how YOU respond to them rather than how to change them. It is amazing how differently people treat you when you start to treat them better. Years ago, I was driving home from work, and I felt overwhelming gratitude for my job, my home, friends, family and all of the talents that I have. Six months earlier, I was at a job I hated; the world seemed to be closing in on me; I felt like no one was supportive; and I wasn’t good at anything. The funny thing about that experience was that the entire time I had the same job, same home, same family and friends. The only thing that had changed was me. So, if giving up chocolate is your New Year’s resolution, and then – the next day – you end up buying out the entire candy aisle at Walgreens, don’t beat yourself up over it. But don’t ignore it, either. Instead, try to become aware of it, even humorously so. If you learn to laugh at your mistakes, then you can learn from them. Don’t take yourself so darn seriously. u Peter Stadalsky is an Aurora resident. He teaches yoga and travels internationally. Stadalsky shares his knowledge of healthy living and traveling with a “glass-half-full” view of the world.
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HEALTH & WELLNESS
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2016 | 43
Five simple measures for a blissful December
I
t is December, a month to which we look forward as we wrap up and celebrate the passing of another year. We want to experience the magic, fun and frivolity of the season, but we often get mired down by “doing” instead of getting to the essence of “being,” which makes it difficult to truly enjoy each moment.
44 | DECEMBER 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
Try these simple measures to bring down the stress levels and guide yourself into a more receptive and heartfelt space.
¢ MINDFULNESS
your well-being to expand. Take the time to stop and breathe throughout the day – notice if you are holding your breath when you’re busy or stressed. There are times when it seems no matter what you do, your mind won’t quiet. An easy way to quiet the mind is to relax your tongue away from the roof of your mouth. This is especially helpful in the middle of a busy day to quickly trigger a relaxation response.
Mindfulness is the practice of being fully present in the moment, and it is most easily achieved by activating all five senses with whatever activity in which you are engaged. This quiets and focuses the mind, and can bring peace to any situation. Try being in the moment as much as possible, whether it’s ¢ FOOD eating a meal, getting dressed in the morning, Food is everywhere during this time of year, making a shopping list or driving in traffic. and it can be overwhelming. Try not to skip meals, and be sure to drink plenty of water ¢ MEDITATION so that you stay hydrated. Using mindfulness Another helpful practice is to do a simple, to fully enjoy the food you eat can help you five-minute breath meditation in the morning receive more nourishment and enjoy the and early evening to quiet the mind and allow HEALTH & WELLNESS
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Marilyn Mitchell, M.D. Named one of America’s “groundbreaking doctors” by Chicago Magazine, Board Certified Physician and Healing Practitioner Marilyn Mitchell, M.D. is an educator, speaker and health visionary. For over 30 years, Dr. Mitchell has grown a unique medical practice that integrates Energy Healing and holistic practices with traditional medicine. She has treated over 30,000 women in the Chicagoland area, who are thriving with this approach. She sees patients at her Medical Center in St. Charles, IL and, with her team, serves people around the globe.
flavors and textures. This way, you are less likely to overeat. Drink alcohol sensibly, while also hydrating with water.
Our specialty is treating patients with common and complex medical conditions that are not readily helped by traditional treatments alone. We succeed by using an integrated approach to guide all our patients to complete healing and wellness.
¢ SLEEP AND RELAXATION Sleep and relaxation are vital for restoring balance to the body, mind and spirit. The brain recharges during sleep, but sleep can be hard to come by during the holiday season. Taking time to relax throughout the day also can help to recharge and improve energy and mental clarity. Make a mental check list of the places where you hold muscular tension in your body and intentionally relax.
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Let’s make this December a warm and wonderful time, when we feel fully present and open to all of the big and small magical moments.
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HEALTH & WELLNESS
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2016 | 45
Christmas inCedarburg
Wisconsin town features centuries-old limestone buildings fit with coffeehouses, enticing shops, art galleries and cozy pubs and restaurants. By KELSEY O’CONNOR
I
f you’re looking for a picturesque holiday trip, look no further than Cedarburg. The historic Wisconsin town, about 120 miles from the Kane County area, is the perfect place for a winter weekend getaway. The area, named one of the country’s prettiest towns by Forbes magazine, boasts charming shops and boutiques, a beautifully preserved downtown and holiday events fit for the entire family. “It just is a charming place to visit. And you couldn’t plan to visit Cedarburg at a better time than the holidays,” says Renira Pachuta of the Cedarburg Visitor Center. “It’s beautiful any time of year, but during Christmas it becomes almost magical.”
WHAT TO DO Cedarburg hosts plenty of festive events throughout the holiday season. Here’s a look at what’s to come: • Holiday Film Festival Catch a classic Christmas movie at the Rivoli Theatre. The historic art deco cinema holds an annual Holiday Film Festival from Dec. 9-23. • Holiday Art Fair Chat with artists and browse for unique gifts at the Holiday Art Fair put on by the Cedarburg Artists Guild. Artists will showcase jewelry, fiber art, weaving, drawings and ceramics from Dec. 2-4 at the Community Center.
• Santa’s Dash Away 5K Participate in the 3rd annual Santa’s Dash Away 5K run/walk. The race will follow the Interurban Trail and takes place Dec. 10. • Paradise Ranch Take a horse-drawn sleigh ride at Paradise Ranch. Afterwards, sip hot apple cider in the historic stone barn and see a replica of an 1800s log cabin. Sleigh rides are available on weekends; Santa will visit through Dec. 22. • Stumpf’s Tree Farm Cut down your own Christmas tree at Stumpf’s Tree Farm. Choose from majestic pines and spruces, along with decorative wreaths boughs through Dec. 23. Visitors should also set aside time to explore the area’s rich history. Cedarburg has two neighborhoods listed on the National Register of Historic Places, which include more than 200 historically significant buildings. The downtown area is a good place to start your historic tour. Admire the architecture along Washington Avenue, which is lined with centuriesold limestone and brick buildings. Many are still open to the public as shops and museums. Stop in the General Store Museum to view the Midwest’s largest collection of antique advertising and packaging.
• Santa’s Workshop Visit Santa’s Workshop, a magical gingerbread house on Washington Avenue. Kids can meet Santa and Mrs. Claus on various days through Dec. 20. Photos provided
46 | DECEMBER 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
TRAVEL
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WHERE TO STAY Book your stay in the heart of Cedarburg at one of these two beautiful and historic hotels. Both are located in the heart of downtown on Washington Avenue, close to shops, restaurants and amenities. • Stagecoach Inn Bed & Breakfast The charming country inn is situated in a restored stone building that used to be an old stagecoach stop. The nine comfortable rooms are furnished with period antiques and private bathrooms. The pub on the first floor, five20 Social Stop, is open to guests and the public. W61 N520 Washington Ave. | 262-375-0208 • Washington House Inn This upscale bed and breakfast is one of the top rated inns in the country. Built in 1886, the downtown building holds 34 elegant guest rooms. Guests can luxuriate in whirpool tubs and steam baths or relax with wine by the fireplace. W62 N573 Washington Ave. | 888-554-9545
WHERE TO SHOP Find something for everyone on your Christmas lists at shops in Cedarburg’s treelined downtown. The area is full of thriving local businesses, including old-fashioned confectionaries, a turn-of-the-century jewelry shop, a store that specializes in antique light fixtures and many more. “The merchants really go all out for the holidays,” says Pachuta. “There’s thousands of twinkling lights; their windows are always beautiful; and the streets are lined with luminaries.” Visitors can get in the holiday spirit at Cedar Creek Settlement. The Settlement features 25 stores, including gift and specialty shops, galleries, artists’ studios and antique shops. There are also three restaurants, and the Cedar Creek winery is nestled in a restored 1864 woolen mill. The area will be festively decorated for the season with wreaths, garlands and thousands of lights. Fridays are the perfect time to visit the Settlement. Festive Friday Eves, which run each Friday through Dec. 16, offer a variety of family-
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friendly free events. The night’s festivities begin at 5 p.m. and end around 9 p.m. Each week will feature music, food and carriage rides, as well as unique themes, which are as follows: • Dec. 2: “The Settlement Christmas Showcase” with a display of artisan goods, live music with Joey LaVie and wine and cheese at the winery. • Dec. 9: “Santa’s Workshop” will feature a visit from Santa Claus in his winter wonderland. There also will be live music by David HB Drake, free ornament and cookie decorating for kids, and complimentary wine tastings, cider and cookies. • Dec. 16: “A Taste of Christmas” is a night for adults to shop and socialize in a festive atmosphere. There will be complimentary snacks and wine tastings, with music by pianist/ singer Kathy Fry, the Sweet Adeline quartet, Swizzle Chix and Cedarburg High School carolers. u For more information or help planning your visit to Cedarburg, contact the Cedarburg Visitor Center at 262-377-5856.
TRAVEL
Gift Well This Season ! Unique gifts, stocking stuffers, and splurges all in one place. 25 S Third St. Geneva, IL 60134 www.joriandjune.com
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2016 | 47
Karaoke culture
Evergreen Pub & Grill, A’Salute, EvenFlow top spots to croon to your favorite tunes By CHRIS WALKER The Evergreen Pub & Grill in St. Charles has reason to sing “We are the Champions” by British rock band Queen, after being named the “Best of the Fox” honoree for karaoke in this year’s contest. “It’s great that so many people think that we’re such a great place to come in and sing karaoke,” says Brian Zirlin, managing partner of the Evergreen. “We were really pleased with the news.” The Evergreen, which hosts karaoke fun on Friday nights, has been around for a long time, but it’s also relatively new in the sense that Zirlin took over the restaurant in January. He renovated the space, revamped the menu and expanded its entertainment options. “The karaoke is great, and Mustang Matt and his company do a wonderful job,” Zirlin says. “And people love coming out for that and for other things. We’ve got a lot of TVs for sports, some live music now on Saturdays and a Wisconsin supper club kind of menu.” Rather than focus on one thing to attract customers, the Evergreen welcomes those looking to enjoy a good meal, watch sports, listen to live music or show off their talent in – or not-so-talented – karaoke singing. “We’re far more than a shot and a beer tavern, and quite an array of a demographic is coming in,” he says. “We try to support local breweries
48 | DECEMBER 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
OUT & ABOUT
and musicians and to give people a lot of ways to be entertained – and karaoke is one of them.” While the Evergreen won “Best of the Fox,” readers also recognized A’Salute in St. Charles and EvenFlow Music & Spirits in Geneva as “One of the Best” options for karaoke. There’s a “Cheers”-like vibe at A’Salute, which makes perfect sense since “salute” means “cheers” in Italian. The bar hosts weekly karaoke Thursdays from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. “Some places stick to a script of about 100 songs, but here you can sing any song you can find on the Internet,” says A’Salute bartender, Tori Hart. “Usually we’ll have a mix of country, rock ‘n’ roll and slow jams every night.” The mix of patrons on most Thursday nights is an eclectic one, with 20-somethings taking the stage as well as the owner and even one regular who is in his 80s. “Our owner Gus Donzelli usually sings one or two Sinatra songs every night,” Hart says. “It’s a really good accepting crowd and that we were voted ‘One of the Best’ karaoke [bars]in Kane County is very cool, especially for a smaller place like us.” The A’Salute staff builds relationships with its customers. “We’ve got great homemade food and drink specials, and we get to know your name and what you’re going to drink pretty quickly,” Hart says. www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
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EvenFlow Music & Spirits hosts karaoke nights, but with the accompaniment of a live band. Every first and third Thursday of the month, the restaurant hosts live band karaoke with The Back Drop Band from 8 to 11:30 p.m. “It’s really cool what we do,” says EvenFlow owner Mike Knuth. “It’s a trio of bass, guitar and a drummer, and it really gives you a chance to be up there with a real band.” If you ever dreamed of stepping into the shoes of Mick Jagger, Bruce Springsteen, or Stevie Nicks, EvenFlow is a place where you can imagine that you’re rocking out in a sold-out arena. “It’s pretty crazy, and the people come out and have some drinks and have a lot of fun with it,” Knuth says. “Where else can you sing where you’re backed by professional musicians? It’s a lot of fun, and we’ve had people come in and really get into it.”
u If you go THE EVERGREEN PUB & GRILL 1400 W. Main St. St. Charles 331-901-5142 evergreenpubstcharles.com A’SALUTE 2400 E Main St St. Charles 630-549-0181 EVENFLOW MUSIC & SPIRITS 302 W. State St. Geneva 331-248-0269 evenflowmusic.com www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
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KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2016 | 49
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Are You An
Artist?
See your work in the pages of Suburban Life Magazine!
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To submit an entry to Artist Showcase email artwork, title of piece, name and village of residence of artist, a two-to three-sentence description of the piece, short bio and artist photo to KaneCountyMagazine@shawmedia.com, subject head “Local Artist Submission.� OUT & ABOUT
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2016 | 51
at Hickory Knolls Discovery Center with CAROL HAGGAS
I
t’s not often that you get to meet a snake named Kevin, a tarantula named Miss T or a salamander named Sally.
But – along with other animals with names like Timmy C., Sweetie Corn, Miss Piggy, Olaf, Randy, Billy, Axel, Oscar, Frankie, Mary, and, of course, the Center’s beloved mascot, Peter Rabbit – these critters, and many others, form the hopping, crawling, slithering, swimming and jumping soul of Hickory Knolls Discovery Center in St. Charles. Seeing, touching and even holding unusual animals, reptiles, insects and amphibians is an essential part of the Hickory Knolls experience. Whether they’re housed in glass aquariums or swim in custom-built ponds, the animals reside at the discovery center in order to introduce both children and adults, alike, to the diversity of animal life that exists in our own backyards.
The Center’s non-human population has included corn snakes, bull snakes, a Western Fox Snake, an Eastern Milk Snake, a Black Rat Snake and an Albino King Snake. There’s a soft-shell turtle and a pond full of Blanding’s turtles – the endangered species that are part of a recovery project in cooperation with the Forest Preserve District of DuPage County. And, of course, the cute and cuddly Peter Rabbit and a guinea pig named Miss Piggy live at the center, too. Not all the Center’s animals have names, but by naming some of its more popular and accessible animals, the Center is helping break down barriers that can exist when people are unfamiliar with or uncertain about a certain animal.
Though Hickory Knolls is not a repository for abandoned or discovered animals, it does have an extensive list of individuals and rescue groups that will take animals in and re-home them. “If you have a tough situation where you can’t keep a pet, such as a rabbit or snake or turtle, any longer, letting what you perceive as a wild animal back into the wild isn’t an option,” says Otto. Once an animal has been in captivity, even for a short time, it acquires health insufficiencies and loses the survival skills necessary to live outdoors.
“There are people who have true phobias, and a cute name isn’t going to help them overcome that, but if they find out that snake is named Timmy or Kevin, they may not be as afraid,” says Otto.
“These animals provide a chance for visitors to see critters from other environments,” says Pam Otto, manager of nature programs and interpretive services. “People can learn the connection between what we have here and what exists in our community’s natural areas.”
In fact, many nature centers and zoos discourage naming display animals because they want to emphasize the distinction between a domestic pet and an animal that lives in the wild.
The discovery center also provides a great way for families to determine whether that guinea pig or turtle they’re thinking of adopting will be a good fit for the family. Interpretive signs tell important facts about every animal (Did you know turtles can live for decades?), and staff can relay insider tips about an animal’s habits and temperament.
“If it’s a pet, it should stay a pet, and if it’s in the wild, it should stay in the wild,” says Otto. “I can’t stress that message enough.”
www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
stay. We’re kind of like an Airbnb for animals,” she says.
It’s an important distinction.
The Center practices what it preaches. None of its animal residents were taken from the wild just to be put on display, says Otto. “These are all animals that, for one reason or another, were displaced or needed a place to OUT & ABOUT
u To learn more about the resident animals at Hickory Knolls Discovery Center, 3795 Campton Hills Drive, St. Charles, visit its website at www. stcnature.org.
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2016 | 53
HALEY’S CHRISTMAS
Model: Haley Schwartz Photographer: Thomas H. P. Jerusalem Photographer Contact: Thomas H.P. Jerusalem Photography, Inc. – MUTE Bat Cave Studios, 1020 Cedar Ave., St. Charles 630-983-1547 jerry@a-moment-in-time.com facebook: www.facebook.com/mutephotos
SOCIAL
Life
RUNWAY FUNDRAISING Batavia Woman’s Club hosts fashion show to benefit Elderday Center
On Nov. 5, the Batavia Woman’s Club hosted a fashion show and luncheon to benefit the Elderday Center, an adult day center that specializes in memory care and aims to enhance quality of life, cognition, socialization and overall wellness for adults and seniors. The fashion show took place at the Q Center in St. Charles and featured clothing from three Geneva boutiques: Evernia, Flair on 3rd and C. Rinella Designs. About $17,000 was raised, and an estimated 300 people attended the event. Photos by Jodi Dazzo
www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
OUT & ABOUT
KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2016 | 55
Artist SHOWCASE
Trees have always been important to Claudia Frost.
“I see them as living, visual symbols of personal timelines, as well as the timelines of cities, neighborhoods, parks and our own backyards,” she says. CLAUDIA FROST |ST. CHARLES ARCHIVAL DIGITAL In 2014, during the dreary and frigid winter, the PHOTO COMPOSITE St. Charles-based photographer spent time taking photographs and making illustrations at LeRoy Oakes “FOREST PATHWAY” FROM THE Forest Preserve and Mt. St. Mary’s Park, both in St. “URBAN FOREST” SERIES Charles. The photographs culminated in a haunting array of images and a body of work, entitled “Urban Forest.” To achieve the visual effect of “Forest Pathway,” which was taken at LeRoy Oakes, Frost used layered textures
56 | DECEMBER 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
OUT & ABOUT
to give the photograph a painterly, timeless mood. Layer upon layer of textures were placed on top of the original photo and blended together to complete the image. “It is my intention to transport viewers through beautiful urban forest pathways to share my own personal seasonal kingdoms,” says the award-winning artist. “Not only will viewers see the trees but, emotionally, ‘feel’ them.” The Saint Charles Arts Council is “very pleased to have had [Frost’s] work in a number of their events, including Art at Home, Pop Up Galleries and ‘Art Around the Corner’ public art displays,” according to the SCAC website and Facebook page.
www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
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Frost’s subjects for her fine art are landscapes, natural history, vanishing icons and vintage organics. Her work has appeared in multiple solo and group exhibitions, including shows at Norris Cultural Arts Center and Fine Line Creative Arts Center. To view more of Frost’s work, visit www. claudiafrost.com. To submit an entry to Artist Showcase, email artwork, title of piece, name and village of residence of artist, a two- to three - sentence description of the piece, short bio and artist photo to KaneCountyMagazine@ shawmedia.com, subject head “Local Artist Submission.” www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
Photo: Paolo Cascio
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EElginSymphony.Org lginSymphony.Org KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | DECEMBER 2016 | 57
DECEMBER 2016
CALENDAR
AN ELVIS MEETS THE BEATLES CHRISTMAS WHEN: 8 p.m. Dec. 2 WHERE: Arcada Theatre 105 E. Main St., St. Charles Arcada Theatre will present an allhits, recreation of one of the most important jam sessions that could have happened by the Beatles and Elvis Presley. Plus the holiday hits, rock ‘n’ roll-style. Tickets cost $15 or $25. For information or to order tickets, call 630-962-7000 or visit www.arcadalive.com. CHRISTMAS WALK WHEN: 6 to 9:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 2 WHERE: Downtown Geneva The festivities will begin at the courthouse square at 6 p.m. with the arrival of Santa Lucia, the first candy cane of the season, and Santa lighting the great tree. Other features will include roasted chestnuts, carolers, carriage rides and a live nativity. For more information, visit www. genevachamber.com. TRICITY FAMILY SERVICES SNOWFLAKE SHUFFLE WHEN: 9 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 3 WHERE: Mill Creek Clubhouse 39W525 Herrington Dr., Geneva The eighth annual Snowflake Shuffle is a 5K walk/run and 10K run that raises money and awareness for quality and affordable mental health services throughout TriCity Family Services in the central Kane County area. The race will start and end at the Mill Creek Clubhouse. The course winds through the streets of the Mill Creek subdivision. “Spiritwear” is encouraged and prizes will be given for the best and runner-up costumes. Teams are encouraged to come up with a fun and creative winterthemed name and look. Awards, hot chocolate and recovery treats will follow the race. For pricing and registration information, visit www. tricityfamilyservices.org/snowflakeshuffle.
GENEVA CHRISTMAS HOUSE TOUR WHEN: Friday, Dec. 2, and Saturday, Dec. 3 WHERE: Various location in Geneva Five distinctive homes will be festively decorated for the holidays by local decorators and will open their doors to visitors for self-guided tours. Tickets are $30 and include a traditional holiday tea from 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday at the First Congregational Church, 327 Hamilton St., Geneva. For more information, visit www.genevachamber.com. FOUR-YEAR ANNIVERSARY OF WORLD’S LONGEST CANDY CANE WHEN: 6 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 3 WHERE: All Chocolate Kitchen 33 S. Third St., Geneva During the celebration, guests will have a chance to see All Chocolate Kitchen chef Alain Roby’s newest chocolate sculpture, the Enchanted Castle. Made with 200 pounds of white chocolate, the castle will stand 10 feet tall and will have six towers. Live Reindeer will be on hand with elves for guests to greet. Balloon Artists will create balloon candy canes for children, and dancers from the Alma Dance School will perform as Roby presents a 10-foot-long, smaller replica of the Guinness World Record-breaking, 51-foot candy cane. The event is free to attend. ST. CHARLES SINGERS: ‘CANDLELIGHT CAROLS’ WHEN: 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 4 WHERE: Baker Memorial United Methodist Church 307 Cedar Ave., St. Charles The St. Charles Singers, led by choirmaster Jeffrey Hunt, will feature a new array of more than 20 seasonal songs at its 33rd annual “Candlelight Carols” Christmas concerts. Tickets and information are available at www.stcharlessingers. com or by calling 630-513-5272. Tickets also are available at Townhouse Books, 105 N. Second Ave., St. Charles (checks or cash only at ticket venue). Tickets may also be purchased at the door on the day of the concert, depending
58 | DECEMBER 2016 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE
on availability. Tickets cost $35 for adults, $30 for seniors and $10 for students. ACAPPELLAGO PRESENTS ‘WHERE ANGELS SING’ WHEN: 4 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 4 WHERE: Congregational Church Of Batavia 21 S. Batavia Ave., (Rte. 31), Batavia Acappellago reprises music from favorite Australian composer, Matthew Orlovich. The concert will feature jazzy settings of favorite carols, such as “Jingle Bells” and “God Rest ye Merry Gents,” as well as the world premiere of a new work written by New York composer Robert Convery in celebration of Acappellago’s 15th season. Tickets cost $15 for adults and $12 for students and seniors. For tickets, visit www.acappellago.org or call 708-484-3797. THE BAND OF MERRYMAKERS WHEN: 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 7 WHERE: Arcada Theatre 105 E. Main St., St. Charles The holiday super-group, starring Mark McGrath of Sugar Ray, Lisa Loeb and hit songwriters/producers Sam Hollander (Train, One Direction, The Fray) and Kevin Griffin (Taylor Swift, James Blunt and Better Than Ezra) will take the Arcada Theatre stage. Tickets cost $39. For tickets or information, visit www.arcadalive. com. ‘IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE’ WHEN: 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 7 WHERE: Arcada Theatre 105 E. Main St., St. Charles The Arcada Theatre will screen “It’s a Wonderful Life.” Tickets cost $5 for adults, and children ages 12 and younger will be admitted free of charge. BREW ‘N’ VIEWS AT TWO BROTHERS ROUNDHOUSE WHEN:7:30 p.m. Wednesdays, Dec. 7, 14 and 28 (arrive early for best seating) WHERE: Two Brothers Roundhouse, 205 N. Broadway Ave., Aurora Two Brothers Roundhouse in Aurora will screen “The Nightmare Before Christmas” (Dec. 7), “National
OUT & ABOUT
Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” (Dec. 14) and “Suicide Squad” (Dec. 28), as part of its Brew ‘N’ View film series. For more information, visit twobrothersbrewing.com. FOX VALLEY CONCERT BAND/ANNUAL HOLIDAY CONCERT WHEN: 3 and 5 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 11 WHERE: Norris Cultural Arts Center 1040 Dunham Road, St. Charles The Fox Valley Concert Band will present its Holiday concert, “Home for the Holidays.” For additional information, visit www.fvcb.org. Donations will be accepted. CHICAGO STEEL PRESENTS: SECRET SANTA NIGHT WHEN: 7:05 p.m. Friday, Dec. 16 WHERE: Fox Valley Ice Arena 1996 S. Kirk Road, Geneva Spread holiday cheer by bringing a gift to the Chicago Steel game with a big exchange with fellow fans. Each person is asked to come with a white elephant gift of choice and in return you will receive one. For more information, visit www. chicagosteelhockeyteam.com. HOLIDAY DAY CAMP WHEN: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Session are available Dec. 19-22 WHERE: Anderson Animal Shelter 1000 South LaFox, South Elgin Anderson Animal Shelter will host Santa Paws Holiday program for your animal-loving children. Sessions include pizza, crafts and time with the animals. The cost is $60 per child, and children can register for as many sessions as they would like. To register, visit www.events.org/ santapaws2016. BRETT MICHAELS CONCERT WHEN: 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 23 WHERE: Arcada Theatre 105 E. Main St., St. Charles The front man of Poison, Bret Michaels, will perform a rare, all-hits Christmas show for his fans exclusively at the Arcada Theatre. For more information, call 630-9627000. Tickets can also be ordered at www.arcadalive.com.
www.kcchronicle.com/magazine
WAYS TO HELP ADOPTABLE PETS THIS HOLIDAY – AND THROUGHOUT THE YEAR
By Anderson Animal Shelter Featured Sponsor DePaw University Canine Campus
‘Tis the season for giving, and it’s also a time that individuals, families and companies seek ways to give back to the community. If you’re passionate about pets, Anderson Animal Shelter – which has been saving animals’ lives and serving the Fox Valley for the past 50 years – offers simple ideas for helping adoptable animals during the holidays and throughout the year. “Any donations directly and greatly help Anderson continue its mission of improving the lives of pets and people through service, education and advocacy,” said Beth Drake, executive director of Anderson Animal Shelter. “About 3,000 animals will be adopted from Anderson in 2016, and we want to save even more in the coming years, while providing the best care and environment for these pets while they wait to find loving homes. We couldn’t fulfill our mission without community support.” Here are four ways to give:
SM-CL0355805
• Giving drives. Individuals, families, schools, youth groups or companies can organize a giving drive or holiday giving tree to collect wish list items for the shelter. Supplies are used to keep the animals well-fed, comfortable and entertained. In fact, every month, Anderson uses 4,500 pounds of dry food, 1,020 pounds of canned food and 4,000 pounds of kitty litter. The shelter has an ongoing wish list of supplies and everyday items that are always in demand: www.andersonanimalshelter.org/wishlist. Any donations can be dropped off at the shelter in South Elgin during regular business hours.
$150, Anderson needs the support of animal lovers in the community to provide its life-saving work and programs. • Kennel and Condo Sponsorship Program. Individuals or organizations can sponsor one or multiple cat condos or dog kennels in the shelter’s adoption rooms. In return, a personalized plaque will be displayed on the animal’s condo or kennel in memory or recognition of whomever is chosen. This is a visible and tangible way to support the daily care of animals, and the shelter will provide periodic updates on the adoptable animals waiting for forever homes in anyone’s sponsored area. • Annual membership. For as little as $25 a year, residents can become an Anderson Animal Shelter Member. This support contributes to the ongoing care of adoptable animals. Contributors receive the regular shelter newsletter to learn more about the adoptions, programs and services made possible through memberships. The annual senior membership is $25; individual membership is $50; and family membership is $100. No matter how you choose to give, a charitable donation will make a meaningful difference in a homeless pet’s life – and that’s a reward that lasts throughout the year! To find out more, please visit us at: www.andersonanimalshelter. org, email us at info@andersonanimalshelter.org, or contact the shelter’s Development Department at 847-697-2880 x25. The shelter is located at 1000 South La Fox Road, South Elgin, IL 60177.
• Monetary gifts. Anderson doesn’t receive any state or federal funding. That’s why tax-deductible monetary gifts in any amount helps the shelter continue much-needed services for homeless pets, including medical care. The average cost to care for each animal is more than $300. With adoption fees averaging only
May the Spirit of Christmas bring you Peace. The Gladness of Christmas bring you Hope. The Warmth of Christmas grant you Love!
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— from The DePAW Staff
Geneva, IL
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