KC Magazine_March 2020

LATEST

HOUSING TRENDS MARCH 2020

SHOW PROMISE

Page 12

EXCITING SPRING BREAK STAYCATIONS Page 36

MODERN DESIGNS CREATE PATIO PERFECTION Page 18

YOUR 5K TRAINING STARTS TODAY Page 22

HOME Renovations Know which projects provide biggest impact | Page 8

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Publisher's

NOTE Winter’s relaxing grip pushes us to think outside With the arrival of March, and the anticipation of daylight savings time delivering that first sliver of hope for warmer climes, we can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel, as winter's harsh grip begins to relax and we can start to think about life outside the home. Of course, March in the Tri-Cities promises no sunshine, no guarantees of above-40 degrees, and plenty of precipitation. Perhaps it is the need to break the shut-in grip of winter that pushes us to embrace such annual traditions as St. Patrick’s Day parades where snow is as plausible as sunshine. We dream of Spring Breaks and thoughts of lone cotton fabrics instead of wool and fleece. This issue of KC shines a light on many of the familiar escapes, as springtime sits on the cusp of breaking through. From the first inklings of prom preparation and Spring Break staycations to learning to de-stress while planning the family vacation or training for your first 5K run, we gently usher in March with insights and examples to make it easy – and loaded with fun. For many homeowners, the moment the first warm weekend hits, the mind immediately shifts to another gear. Check out our features on the latest trends and the biggest payoffs for home renovations in 2020, as well as tips for transforming your outdoor patio into a

full-fledged entertainment mecca. The housing trend needle is pointing up in 2020, read about the new Millennial factor and what will sell – and what probably won’t. Lastly, if the March transition to spring is still too unpredictable, don’t miss our visit to Preservation in Geneva, it’s a destination for pure culinary creativity that will reward those beaten down by the season’s shifting moods. Thanks for reading!

Laura Shaw, Publisher Each spring we take a deep dive into fashion and style trends in our region. Our April issue looks at everything from off-the-rack and vogue ensembles to discovering vintage décor and creating interior home sophistication. Next month in KC. Correction: Last month we mistakenly listed the Celebrating Special Moments at Oscar Swan article byline; it was written by Chris Walker.

on the

COVER

A luxury master bath in St. Charles designed by Angie’s Interiors in collaboration with PB Kitchen Design & constructed by Lockner Enterprises.

Photo Credit – Kaskel Photography

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PUBLISHER Daily Chronicle & Suburban Weekly Group Laura Shaw 630-709-4497 lshaw@shawmedia.com DESIGNER Allison LaPorta 630-427-6260 alaporta@shawmedia.com LOCAL SALES MANAGER Kane County Chronicle & Niche Publishing Jaclyn Cornell 630-845-5234 jcornell@shawmedia.com CORRESPONDENTS Jonathon Bilyk, Pat Szpekowski, Chris Walker, Erin Sauder, Sara Carlson, Tom Witom, Melissa Rubalcaba Riske, Chrissy Somers, Vicki Martinka Petersen, Kevin Druley, Allison Horne, and Diane Krieger Spivak

This magazine is available by subscription for $24 a year. If you would like each month’s edition mailed to your home, send your request with payment information to Shaw Media, 7717 S. Route 31, Crystal Lake, IL 60014 or via email at subscriptions@shawmedia.com.

Published by Shaw Media 333 N. Randall Road, Suite 2 St. Charles, IL 60174 Phone: 630-845-5288

MARCH

2020

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INSIDE

What's

HOME & GARDEN 8 BY DESIGN Open rooms, simple décor dominate renovations. 11 CONSOLIDATED GARAGE DOORS 50 years in the door industry. 12 HOUSING TRENDS Thinking of relocating this year? The forecast is good for both sellers and buyers. 15 DREAM MAKERS Marble & Granite Tech brings great customer service and a wide selection of natural stone selection pieces to its projects. 16 AND FIRE BLIGHT IN A PEAR TREE… Gorgeous white ornamental Pear trees in our area are struggling mightily. 18 OUTDOOR ENTERTAINING Homeowners embracing latest trends in outdoor living. 20 MCNALLY’S HEATING AND COOLING Providing reliable heating and cooling services when it counts.

HEALTH & WELLNESS 16 TIME TO GET DRY SKIN READY FOR SPRING The cold, dry months have likely wreaked havoc on your skin. 22 5K TRAINING Small steps, but promises big benefits 24 EAT HEALTHY, EVEN WHEN YOU’RE OUT! Dr. Tarun Mullick dives into Skippy’s gyros.

DINING & ENTERTAINING

26 TOM’S COOKBOOK LIBRARY Cookbook reviewer Tom Witom on bartender's final drink and the wisdom and rituals of closing time. 28 PRESERVATION Must-Taste destination for culinary creativity.

FAMILY IN FOCUS 30 IRISH EYES SMILE With this great parade, there will be plenty of fun leading up to the holiday. 32 SUMMER VACATION Do you want to get away this summer, but don’t know where to go, or even where to get started? 34 ‘A LIVING PIECE OF HISTORY’ Memorial program plants seeds for many generations. 36 STAYCATIONS You don’t have to travel far to have fun with family and friends. 38 INDOOR JUNGLE! Here’s an idea… let’s bring our garden inside.

FASHION & BEAUTY 40 PROM DRESSES Aren’t just for prom anymore.

BUSINESS & CIVIC 42 CHARLEMAGNE AWARDS We stepped out at St. Charles’ biggest event of the year. 44 MANAGING THE LUCK OF THE IRISH What you need to know.

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MARCH

2020

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by

DES I

t’s natural to dream about launching your own home renovation projects after spending an afternoon binge watching the Property Brothers. When you’re ready to make those daydreams become a reality, local vendors note that streamlined and simple designs are the latest trends.

“Clients are opting for more traditional staple pieces, such as subway tiles and natural wood, to create a warm inviting feeling in their homes,” says Hannah Kolzow of McDowell Remodeling in St. Charles.  MODERN KITCHENS Since more people are eating and entertaining at home, the kitchen has become a prime spot for home

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HOME & LIFESTYLE MARCH 2020

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ESIGN renovations. Open floor plans create more space for entertaining while big kitchen islands offer plenty of seats for guests.

“People want their kitchens to have functionality for when they’re cooking – things like a big farm sink, pot racks and butcher block countertops,” Kolzow says.  GET ORGANIZED Organization also is a key component in kitchen renovations. “With more space in the kitchen, people have more options for where everything will go from trays for dishes to a separate fridge for wines,” says Lynn Havlicek, owner of Geneva Cabinet Gallery.

That organizational mindset also carries over to other rooms in the house. For instance, Havlicek has seen many clients carve storage to their laundry rooms with cabinets for laundry baskets and doors to hang up clothing.

remaining functional, like installing the shower valve outside the shower so people don’t have to jump in and wait for the water to warm up,” Kolzow says.

“Storage is key for helping people keep their hobbies and tasks in one place. They want to open a drawer and find everything they need for their projects,” Havlicek says.

To eliminate the risk of people falling while getting into the shower, the bathroom and shower floor is one floor to offer a seamless transition. Even hospital style grab bars get a makeover with sleeker styles available.

With older adults opting to spend their golden years at home, a big trend in bathroom renovations is to couple safety features with convenience. “We can help people make their bathrooms both ADA compliant and beautiful while

 WHERE TO BEGIN It’s important to do your homework and get design ideas before contacting professionals for assistance. “Working with a designer can help you get new ideas

Open rooms, simple décor dominate renovations By Vicki Martinka Petersen Photos by Havlicek Builders

and see what can work in your space. It’s also good to speak with a professional before buying anything like appliances as what would work in the room could change with design,” Havlicek recommends. For homeowners worried their budget might not be enough to pursue home renovations, Kozlow assures a home refresh can still be done. “Even if a look you like isn’t financially feasible, sharing those ideas helps us know what styles and colors you like so we can help make that desired result a reality,” Kozlow says.

HOME & LIFESTYLE MARCH 2020

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Bring your life-style home.

of selecting the right furniture, fabrics, window treatments, rugs, art, lamps, flooring, tile, fixtures and unique accessories that will make your home a haven.

We invite you to experience how great design can improve the quality of your life!

Haven Interiors Studio

15 S 3rd St Geneva, IL 60134 630.402.0444 www.haveninteriorsltd.com

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Consolidated

GARAGE DOORS SOLID SINCE 1976

W service.

hen you see Consolidated Garage Doors’ tagline, you can be assured you’re getting quality products and customer

“Everything we do, from sales, installation and service, through follow-up, is reflected in our name and tagline, “Consolidated Garage Doors, Ltd., SOLID since 1976,” says owner Mike Matuszek. Consolidated Garage Doors, located in Batavia, is a Master Authorized Dealer for Clopay Garage Doors, and a ProVantage Dealer for LiftMaster garage door openers. We install and service a full line of residential garage doors and openers that can be viewed in our showroom. In addition to sales and installation of garage doors and openers, Consolidated Garage Doors also services and repairs cables, hinges, rollers, springs, struts, and garage door window inserts. With more than 50 years in the door industry, Mike

knows his stuff; he followed in his Dad’s footsteps. “Do it once, do it right, do it better than the competition,” is the company marching orders. This philosophy guides our employees from the time they answer the phone or process a website request for help through the repair and/or installation of doors and openers. After being located in Itasca and Addison, Consolidated Garage Doors relocated 14 years ago to Its new expanded facility in Batavia. Mike sees continued growth in a healthy economy over the next few years. He also shares Consolidated Garage Doors’ secret for success: “Hard work, long hours and treat people the way you want to be treated.” The job becomes your life in a family business; you don’t leave it when you go home. You must love what you do.” Consolidated Garage Doors has employees with over 35 years in the door industry who are happy to offer

By Diane Krieger Spivak

their expertise to customers. The family-owned business is embedded in the community, which is also a factor contributing to its longevity. “Consolidated Garage Doors grew when the economy grew,” says Mike. “When the economy declined in the early 2000s, our philosophy and people helped us weather the storm. As the economy trended upwards, our growth continues.” It’s that sense of community that inspired Consolidated Garage Doors to become a member of the Batavia Chamber of Commerce and to support Kane County Toys for Tots, Folds of Honor, Oscar Mike Foundation, Wounded Warriors, Batavia United Way and Northern Illinois Food Bank. Consolidated Garage Doors is also a member of both the International Door Association and the Illinois Door Association. “Come see our products in our best-of-the-industry showroom, speak with our people and we believe you’ll be a customer for life,” says Mike.

 CONSOLIDATED GARAGE DOORS, LTD 630-761-1976 1870 Suncast Lane, Batavia, IL 60510 www.doormn.com Hours: M-F 7:00 to 4:30; Saturday 8:00 to noon; Closed Sundays HOME & GARDEN MARCH 2020

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OUTLOOK

'GOOD'

For 2020 Regional Housing Trends By Diane Krieger Spivak

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T

hinking of relocating this year? The forecast is good for both sellers and buyers, according to Deborah Gurley, a real estate broker with Miscella Real Estate. “Last year home prices went up, and that was the first time they went up of any significance,” says Gurley, a 10-year real estate veteran. “That’s good for sellers. In the past, people were losing money. Now they’re breaking even or getting ahead.” It also means that, if you’re selling, you must make your home stand out for potential buyers and find a good real estate agent to price it right, adds Gurley, a certified negotiation expert and certified mentor, who also happens to be

certified in interior design and home staging. In this current market, everybody wins because inventory is tight and interest rates are low. “Very rarely do you see a short sale now,” says Gurley, who is seeing a lot of first-time buyers are comprised of millennials that are starting to come into the fray.

Millennial Factor Millennials are starting to rent less and buy more. With rent being very high these days, and millennials are at an age where they’re starting to settle down, getting married, getting a home and building equity, the trend is only getting stronger.

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“That’s important, when you’re a seller or real estate agent. You need to know your buyer” - Deborah Gurley REAL ESTATE BROKER WITH MISCELLA REAL ESTATE

“That’s important, when you’re a seller or real estate agent. You need to know your buyer,” she says. “Millennials are savvy buyers. They typically look online before they even call an agent."

foot ranches are popular. McMansions with tall, 2-story entryways are no longer a thing; 3500 square feet is starting to get too big for the average buyer.

Online photos need to be really good because millennials make decisions based on what’s online, on a digital tour of a home. Gurley says they’ll drive around at night, and if they like the curb appeal, then they call the agent.”

For those looking to downsize, high-end townhomes are popular. “In our particular area in the Fox River Valley people want houses in Batavia, St. Charles and Geneva,” says Gurley. “Empty nesters might want a $550,000 condo with high-end finishes within walking distance of downtown.”

Downsizing So, what are buyers looking for these days? Gurley says they want houses that are smaller, 2000- to 2200-square-feet on average. Even 1150-square-

High-end townhomes are popular, as well. “We get a lot of calls for those,” Gurley notes. “People still would like to stay in the area because they have a

foothold here.” Smaller homes with high-end finishes inside are highly sought after. Gray is still a big color choice, with stainless steel appliances and hardwood floors,” notes Gurley, adding, “The ‘open’ concept is starting to sputter out a little. I think we’re becoming much more sensible about our space. People are saying, ‘I don’t need the big house. I want a really nice house.’” That said, outdoor areas are super important, with fancy grills, pergolas and outdoor kitchens. “Here in the Midwest especially, it can be 40 degrees but if it’s sunny, we’re outdoors,” says Gurley. HOME & GARDEN MARCH 2020

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Home Is Where the Hearth Is

Visit our show room to see over 40 burning models on display. See a wide selection of electric, gas, and wood fireplaces designed to enhance the warmth and beauty of your home. You’ll also find a full line of mantels, fireplace screens, and hearth accessories to complete the picture.

Sales • Service • Installation

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DREAM MAKERS

Marble & Granite Tech brings great customer service and a wide selection of natural stone selection pieces to its projects By Vicki Martinka Petersen

F

or more than 30 years, Marble & Granite Tech has helped people bring their renovation dreams to fruition by offering quality fabricating and countertop installations for both residential as well as commercial projects.

With locations in Geneva and Barrington, Marble & Granite Tech specializes in products that come in natural stone selections, including granite, marble, quartzite, exotic stone, porcelain and quartz. The company also offers porcelain fabrication and installation as well as cabinet sales. Communication is key for Marble & Granite Tech when helping clients. “We are here to help people select the perfect countertop for their home and to make sure that all our clients are completely happy with the final results. I love the thrill of the finished project and knowing that the client is totally satisfied,” says staffer Nanette Weeg. When it comes to getting started on a

project, Weeg stresses the importance of people selecting projects that portray who they are and go with the flow of their home rather than solely focus on the latest trends. “Trends come and go, but going with what is in your heart will always be in style,” Weeg says. For people not sure where to begin with their project Marble & Granite Tech can jump in to assist customers with the selection of materials to ensure they are the most suitable product for the product application. They also work to find the best products that fit within a client’s budget. “This is a big purchase so be patient as all good things take time,” Weeg says about the process. When looking into larger, more involved renovation projects, staffer Donna Pixley stresses the importance of researching reputable partners, contractors, tile setters and stone fabricators who all can work with each other to get the job done and achieve

clients’ end goals. “Attention to detail, quality and service are second to none. We’re a leader in the industry, and our longevity and relationships with others in the industry over these many years prove just that,” Pixley says.

 MARBLE & GRANITE TECH, INC. 847-382-1120 1749 S. Randall Road, Ste. B, Geneva mgtstone.com Open Monday- Friday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m.- 4 p.m.

Once the project materials are selected, the materials are digitally lazar measured and robotically cut.

847-382-1120 817 W. Northwest Hwy., Barrington mgtstone.com Open Monday- Friday, 9 a.m.- 6 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

“This is all done in conjunction with vein matching software to ensure the client is getting the best use of the material with pattern and flow,” explains Pixley. As homeowners are seeking a return to more simple designs with their renovations, Pixley sees a trend toward warm and taupe colors and moving away from gray and white kitchens. “I see a movement toward engineered quartz and natural quartzite stones to give countertops a softer look,” Pixley adds.

HOME & GARDEN MARCH 2020

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And Fire Blight in a

Pear Tree... By Meagan Provencher

A

s you have probably noticed, the gorgeous white ornamental Pear trees in our area are struggling mightily. A bacterial disease called fire blight is spreading quickly among these popular flowering trees. For years, gardeners and tree folks have had a love/hate relationship with the ornamental Pear and its white flowers, formality, and excellent fall color. The first introduction years ago was ‘Bradford’ but more recently, it was found that it grew so fast, its body couldn’t support its head and you’d often lose large sections of the trees in storms or wind. The newer Pear introductions such as ‘Chanticleer/Cleveland Select’, and ‘Aristocrat’ were bred with better proportions but they still weren’t perfect and were damaged also. Sadly, even if you have a pear that has miraculously survived the storms and winds, you may find it will not survive fire blight. Fire blight is a bacterial infection that is highly contagious (reason #349 for diversity in our tree canopy). Bacteria overwinter in the margins of cankers, slightly sunken areas bordered by irregular cracks, on branches and trunks. Once the temperature reaches about 65°F, bacteria begin to multiply and

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appear on the outsides of the cankers in drops of clear to amber-colored ooze. The bacteria then spread to blossoms primarily by rain but also via pollinators. Our wetter than normal springs have caused fire blight to be more prevalent and spread quicker. Once the tree has been infected, the bacteria kills the tips of branches and you’ll see dry, black or brown leaves and stems hanging from the tree. Infected trees often don’t lose these tips so its easy to spot fire blight. Chemical treatments are typically ineffective as bacterial infections are much more difficult to treat vs. fungal leaf infections like mildew, rust and scab. In addition to fire blight, Pears are also about to land themselves on Illinois’ List of Invasive Species. Now what did the poor Pear do to deserve this? Well… it mated. The Pears unexpectedly

HOME & GARDEN MARCH 2020

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Good Replacements for Pear in the parkway:    

Common Hackberry Kentucky Coffeetree Autumn Gold Ginkgo American Sentry Linden

Good Replacements for Pear at the corner of the home:

 Crimson Spire or Regal Prince Oak (upright narrow form of oak)  Spring Flurry Serviceberry  American Hornbeam  Japanese or Peking Tree Lilac

Good Replacements for a Pear in an ornamental landscape bed or border:    

Tuliptree Riversii Beech Katsura Tree American Yellowwood

cross pollinated and set seed and all those fat juicy seeds were consumed by birds and critters and “redeposited” all over the place – including in many of our natural areas. You can often see young Pears defiantly standing in the middle of a prairie that has just been burned. Once the Pears have seeded and grown for a few years, they are a bugger to remove. The offspring grow fast and start the seeding process all over again, choking out the more desirable plants. Pears will (more likely than not) soon join their friends Buckthorn and Honeysuckle as plants to get rid of in suburban yards and natural areas. Once listed by the state as an invasive species, these plants are no longer available for sale in the nursery trade. To be proactive,

we have destroyed all of our stock and will no longer grow or sell ornamental Pears for the landscape. So, what can you do? Fire blight can affect other desirable species of trees too and you don’t want it spreading. We usually recommend removal vs. trying to spray or removed diseased parts of the tree. After removal, choose a new species of tree that suits your spot.

Let us grow them into the garden of your dreams.

There are plenty of non-invasive, disease-free, small flowering and shade trees with great fall color. Don’t plant any new young Pears (even though they are still for sale in stores) as there are no resistant or seedless varieties. We never know what the “next big thing” will be with trees but we can always try to plan ahead, plant native species, and make sure our yards are diverse.

Meagan Provencher is the Sr. Landscape Designer at Wasco Nursery & Garden Center. She can be reached at 630-584-4424 or design@ wasconursery.com Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter!

HOME & GARDEN MARCH 2020

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I

n the past decade or so, Becca LaBarre has had a front row seat for the evolution of the backyard patio. Through it all, she says, one constant has guided the change: A renewed commitment to building a functioning outdoor extension of the home. The challenge with such a process is the extension of the living space must be achieved without sacrificing any of the beauty that is crucial to an inviting outdoor entertainment area.

“Patio design ten years ago was more about the shape, less about the function,” says LaBarre, a senior landscape designer with Evergreen Landscape in Hampshire. “Today, homeowners want that extension of their outdoor space and understand the function is very important, while not compromising the style.”

MORE FUNCTIONS, MORE SPACE

Homeowners embracing latest trends in outdoor living By Jon Bilyk

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According to LaBarre, homeowners want the patio to blend into the overall design of their home, rather than create any feeling of contrast. She says the patios of the 2020s are getting larger, even as homes, overall, are not. She said the reason for the expansion is simple: “Homeowners want to add more functions.” These new “functions” can include more dedicated outdoor food cooking and prep space, in an outdoor kitchen. While usually centered on a natural gas-powered barbecue grill, these kitchens can be as simple as a stone grill island with some additional counter space, or far more elaborate designs, featuring under-counter refrigerators, storage cabinets, pizza ovens or even sinks with running water. She said sinks, though, can be challenging to install correctly in a climate with winters like those experienced in northern Illinois.

HOME & GARDEN MARCH 2020

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LaBarre says the outdoor kitchen spaces also usually include a number of electrical outlets for lighting, appliances and other components. Other popular patio features include gas-powered fireplaces and fire pits, or bar seating, which allows guests to chat with the host as they grill, while not being in the way, providing a place to rest food and drink.

RIGHT SIZE PATIO To fit all of those amenities, the typical patio of today measures between 600-800 square feet. However, LaBarre says the correct size should depend on the size of the yard and the home, the number of people who live in a home, and the level of entertaining homeowners may wish for their backyard.

less costly paver, but more recently homeowners have embraced higher end pavers or even paving stones, which add natural beauty to any backyard entertaining space, while holding up better under the barrage of the sun and Illinois’ harsh weather.

NEW MATERIAL OPTIONS

“These natural stones have a different color and texture than the traditional stone, so there will be new design options,” she says. “Natural stone is a more luxurious product than pavers in general, because, being stone, it’s more durable and classic in design.” In addition to the floor and amenities, LaBarre says homeowners today can also opt for an array of lighting options, including “smart” light fixtures, allowing users to change lighting based on the gathering, the mood or the occasion, or even for different seasons.

While it may have been a bit more visually appealing, curvilinear design cut down on the amount of usable space. Additionally, patio functionality was cramped by water features and patio walls, which, she says, can unnaturally break up the space.

BEGIN PLANNING

LaBarre says today’s homeowners are opting for more modern and sleek designs that maximize space. “Homeowners know if you want a long eight-person dining table, there needs to be room for that in the design.” Another trend impacting homeowners is a choice not to install lots of small patios with unnecessary grade changes. “Neither furniture, nor large groups can fit on those spaces,” says LaBarre. “Having one or two larger spaces with a purpose makes more sense.” Beyond space issues, LaBarre says today’s homeowners have come to grips with the need to invest in more durable paving materials. In years past, homeowners may have opted for a

On 8 Acres Within the City of Geneva

Patio designers are enjoying use of an array of new stone paving products being introduced into the local market from domestic sources and overseas from locales including Italy and India.

LaBarre said a large chunk of that size increase has been accommodated by changes in overall patio design. In the not-too-distant past, homeowners sought a curvilinear, or somewhat wavy, design for their patios. “Geometric (design), with clean lines, was thought to be boring,” says LaBarre.

MODERN TRENDS

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Weddings & Events Large or Small

Rehearsal Dinners - Showers - Birthday Parties

UPCOMING EVENTS

LaBarre recognizes homeowners may have particular goals for their patio, if not a clear vision, though she says the journey to creating a backyard destination always begins with planning.

St. Patrick’s Buffet - Saturday, March 14th, 7pm, Dinner & Dancing with Irish Tunes Specialty buffet featuring lamb stew, minted peas, colcannon mashed potatoes, salmon with leeks & herb butter, corned beef on rye w/reuben sauce, and Irish soda bread. Chocolate Guinness brownies, Irish coffee, green beer & Irish brews

Homeowners should expect to spend 4-6 weeks just planning their patio of choice. From there, depending on the season, the project could take another 2-6 weeks to complete.

St. Patrick’s Brunch Sunday, March 15th, 12 Noon Easter Brunch - Sunday, April 12th (Two Seatings 11am & 2pm) Enjoy Country Ham glazed w/pepper jelly, roasted fingerling potatoes, spinach souffle, bacon, fresh fruit, cheese board & smoked salmon, breads & homemade desserts.

She says the best time to begin planning a patio is in the fall, so the pros “can see the space before everything goes dormant and do a lot of planning work over the winter.”

Mother’s Day Brunch - Sunday, May 10th (Two Seatings 11am & 2pm) Featuring Country Ham glazed w/pepper jelly, Beef Tenderloin carving station, roasted little red potatoes, deviled eggs, frittata, garden salad w/homemade poppy seed dressing, cream corn pudding, fresh fruit, homemade desserts & more Enjoy Live Music!

Projects launched in the spring will typically have completions timed for early summer, but exact completion times will depend on a variety of factors, including weather and how busy a particular construction season may be. “I’ve been with Evergreen for fifteen years, and no two seasons have started and finished the same,” she says.

1800 West State Street, Geneva, IL 60134 (630) 232-0173 • nina@oscarswan.com www.OscarSwan.com

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HOME & GARDEN MARCH 2020

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McNally’s HEATING AND COOLING By Pat Szpekowski

I

s your heating or air conditioning unit showing signs of needing repair? Is it making noise when it’s on? Is the thermostat not reaching the desired temperature? Is the unit not cooling or heating the way it normally does?

These are just some of the tell-tale signs that Brian McNally, owner of McNally’s Heating and Cooling in St. Charles, notes why a homeowner or business should schedule a maintenance check up.

heritage as well as our drive for finishing what we start.

“Thermostats with wi-fi capability can operate all of the HVAC equipment in your home, even with a phone app while you are away. There are many different kinds. We have and install all different types.

Finding and establishing a relationship with a trusted local heating and air conditioning company shouldn’t be a daunting task. McNally’s Heating and Cooling provides reliable heating and cooling services when it counts. Brian has been an independent HVAC contractor doing small business since after High School, and became officially incorporated in 2012. The company relocated a year ago to a much larger facility and looks forward to continued growth.

“People are always looking to be more earthconscious, energy efficient, reduce bills and improve air quality,” McNally added. “We are doing many more whole home duct cleanings and installing high efficiency furnaces and air conditioners.” The McNally teams educate consumers on thermostat settings and how different improvements of the home can be simple and provide heating and cooling cost savings.

Today his family-owned and community-focused business is composed of a team of 18 employees. “They are an amazing mix of great individuals, who are like a family themselves,” said McNally. “We literally have non-existent turnover and have a handful of people who have been here since the beginning.” The company provides a wide variety of services and products and McNally is proud his employees are “honest, reliable, knowledgeable, and take pride in treating your family like their own.” Whether it’s heating, air conditioning, maintenance, installation, air purifying or emergency services, “we stand by our work and will work hard to ensure you are completely satisfied, always,” said McNally. McNally’s background and values seamlessly transfer to his business. “I came from a family with strong work ethics,” he said. “My father owned his own custom home company for over 35 years. My parents were born in Ireland and take great pride in our

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bacteria before they enter the air flow. They are more effective working in coordination with air purifiers.

“I live locally and have three children ages 9, 6, and 4. I love being an integral part of my community and helping those in need as well. I feel very lucky to have amazing customers, staff, and support in the community all helping me build the life and business that I love and am proud of.” McNally’s is always on trend with what’s new. “Indoor air quality and technology lead the newest products on the market today,” McNally said. “Fairly newer are the germicidal lamps, such as the APCO or HALO, to be put on the furnace in order to kill viruses and

For a last bit of advice, McNally added “if you are doing any home construction, have pets, or any other conditions in your home that may change the speed in which the furnace filter could accumulate debris, change the filters a minimum of twice a year, or more often, if that is the case.”  MCNALLY'S HEATING AND COOLING 3491 Swenson Ave. St. Charles, IL 60174 (630) 363-9067 www.mcnallyhvac.com

HOME & GARDEN MARCH 2020

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TI ME TO GET

DRY SKIN READY for

g n i r p S By Erin Sauder

The cold, dry months have likely wreaked havoc on your skin. With milder temperatures and longer days just around the corner, now is the time to start preparing your body’s largest organ to welcome-in the spring.

 PRIORITY: HYDRATION Hydration is crucial when it comes to your skin’s health and appearance. To that end, “make sure to drink plenty of water,” says Lynda Pappas, owner of Skin Deep Day Spa in Campton Hills. Pappas also recommends using a hyaluronic acid-based moisturizer. “Hyaluronic acid is one of the most hydrating types you can put in a product,” says Pappas, who recommends skipping over-thecounter products, and instead opting for professional-grade.

“When you buy it in the store, the active ingredient is only going to be between ten and twenty percent,” Pappas says. “A professional brand, while more expensive, is going to have more active ingredients. And that means more positive changes you’re going to see in your skin.”  SUN & SHOWERS Additionally, everyone’s daily routine should include the application of a sunscreen with an SPF, or sun protection factor. “That should be Number One,” Pappas says. “Your skin definitely needs an SPF.”

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, they recommend using a broadspectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher to protect skin from the sun’s harmful ultraviolet rays. They also recommend staying protected by reapplying regularly. Are you notorious for taking long, hot showers? It might be time to rethink the habit.

“Because those can really dry out your skin. Try to keep showers to a few minutes and try not to use really hot water. You want to keep it comfortable without being too hot, not only for your face but also for your body,” Pappas says.  SPA TIME Another way to purge the last of winter from your pores requires a trip to the local spa. A microdermabrasion treatment at Skin Deep Day Spa, for instance, helps exfoliate and remove the dry, dead skin cells from the face. The end result will be skin that is soft and smooth,” Pappas says. “The treatment also helps topical products work more effectively.

Because we’ve removed the dead skin, there aren’t any barriers, so products can penetrate into the skin.”

A facial can also help get skin ready for spring. “Adding moisture to the skin always helps,” Pappas says. The Hydrating Facial at Skin Deep Day Spa is a multi-step skin treatment which includes cleansing, steaming with an enzyme to help exfoliate the skin, extraction to clear clogged pores, and a vitamin B and hyaluronicbased hydration treatment. Another perk? It’s followed by a relaxing facial neck, upper back and chest massage. “After, your skin looks and feels amazing,” Pappas says. For optimal results, facials should be done every 30 to 45 days. “This way we can correct anything before it gets out of control,” Pappas says. “Nothing you do at home can replace a professional skin care specialist. It takes teamwork – you and your skin care professional – to get your skin looking the best it can be.”

HEALTH & WELLNESS MARCH 2020

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5K TRAIN S N I B EG REALISTIC EXPECTATIONS For the beginner, four months is a reasonable time frame to train for a race says Nicole Zachwieja, a personal trainer and certified exercise physiologist at Northwestern Medicine Delnor Health & Fitness Center in Geneva.

Every journey starts with a single step and that rings true when training for a 5K race. So, whether it is keeping a New Year’s Resolution, checking an item off the bucket list or joining friends at a race training to complete your first 5K race is within reach.

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Zachwieja has been running most of her life, starting in middle school. She credits her dad for encouraging her to take up the sport and being there to support her through her goals from running a 5K, 10k and last year, her third marathon. “Running is so cool because it is very accessible and anybody can do it. You can continue it throughout your life,” she says. As a personal trainer, she enjoys working with clients of all ages and especially helping them launch their running journey through interval training, which includes walking and gradually adding in running, starting in seconds and working up to longer stretches of running. “Four months is a reasonable time with the first month building bone and habits and the next months progressing,” Zachwieja says. “You

can take longer and it’s important to be careful and have realistic expectations. “ She adds, “Be kind to your body rather than cram it in before a race.”

THE RIGHT SHOES Before stepping out to train, one of the first musts is finding the right footwear. Eric Ott and his staff at the family-owned Geneva Running Outfitters are ready to measure and discuss each client’s fitness needs and help them find the right shoes for the job. Ott was a collegiate athlete who ran track and field and cross country. After graduating he spent some time as a ranked elite athlete who trained other runners. He also taught and coached at a local high school. His background as an educator, athlete and coach mean that when a client steps into his shop they can count on one-to-one attention to details in finding the best footwear. “We want to educate people,” Ott says. It’s a science and art.” Ott says he likes to apply the scientific process, asking questions to find out what the client needs, what are

HEALTH & WELLNESS MARCH 2020

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NOW! Early Bird Rates the expectations for the shoes and if there is any pain or prior injuries to note. All of this is part of the deductive process before taking measurements and offering customers a few different pairs of shoes by stepping up on the treadmill and seeing what feels right. And while one can find running shoes at department stores, Ott notes he and other running stores carry a larger selection. “You can probably only find half of the shoes available in a big store and feel lost,” Ott says. Since opening the store in 2010 Ott and his staff have helped athletes find footwear for light to distance running. Customers can also find apparel and accessories, which are great as runners develop their love of the sport. There are in-store classes to learn more about using accessories as well as running clinics. While accessories can be useful, Ott says for a new runner a wellfitted shoe and an app on one’s smart phone are all one needs to get started.

TRAINING Working with a trainer is a great way to check form, learn about cross training and strength training and helping to stay on track Zachwieja says. She also recommends finding a running friend or a running group. During her marathon training Zachwieja says she trained with a local running group and her dad who joined her on many of her long practice runs. “Having accountability with a buddy or group is great. And there’s safety in numbers,” Zachwieja says. From March through October Geneva Running Outfitters hosts Uptempo Tuesdays, a free workout and group runs on Thursdays. Ott says the aim of the workouts is to introduce people to something they haven’t tried before and helping runners of all levels enjoy a healthy workout. “There’s a big span of levels and no one is left behind. We are very supportive,” Ott says.

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Today my palate took me to Skippy’s gyros. Perhaps it was the thought of Greece or looking at a view of the Greek Isles on Google that prompted me to think of the yummy gyros, but the first thought that came to me was — Skippy’s.

While they have the typical lamb gyros, I was craving the chicken gyros which, for me, have the perfect blend of spices that creates amazing flavor. I have never seen chicken gyros made so well. To accompany the gyro, Skippy’s offers either a plate with onions, fresh red tomato slices and a pita/naan bread on top; or you may get it with the gyro meat wrapped in the pita/naan. Taking this over the edge is their cucumber yogurt sauce, which gives you that typical Greek flavor yogurt and spice that takes it to the top of flavor world. The alternative is their homemade honey mustard, though I prefer the cucumber yogurt sauce. Overall, you end up eating just the carbs within the pita/naan. I halve it in order to

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cut some of the carbs, which then keeps me more on the pseudo keto friendly diet. There is plenty of protein and just a hint of fat. So, not only did I grab one there, but I was so amazed that I took a few plates home!

 Dr. Tarun Mullick is a specialist trained at Johns Hopkins and Cleveland Clinic in Gastroenterology and Endoscopy based in Geneva. Connect with him at www.mullickmd. com or by phone at 630-232-2025.

HEALTH & WELLNESS MARCH 2020

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Our practice focus is to care for patients to help them and tailor their care individually with current therapies. We receive a lot of questions from patients, friends, and even just those we know casually on many healthcare topics of the day. Here are some common questions we have recently been asked:

Call for appointment 630-232-2025

Pay LESS for your colonoscopy or endoscopy.

Facility Fees are significantly lower. Cost of health care is going up. Pay less for your test. We are JCAHO certified. Met your Deductible?? Get in before year end. Save on your deductible. Pay LESS. Heartburn, Diarrhea, Constipation, Liver Disease, Pancreatitis, Abdominal Pain, Colitis, Crohns/ Ulcerative Colitis, Gallbladder, Rectal Bleeding We have quality doctors and team on staff to serve you well. Its our honor to take care of you.

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Q: Is Colonoscopy the best test out there, or is Cologuard better?

A: Colonoscopy is still the best test. Cologuard is for later stage

testing of growths. It misses earlier polyps. Colon cancer screening is for both men and women. It is preventable, beatable and treatable. Screening starts at age 45, unless you have prior symptoms or family history of polyps or cancer. Get screened.

Q: Sometimes I have watery stools but with some blood. What should I do?

A: This may be a sign of diarrhea that is from a colitis or from

local trauma due to the abrasive nature of wiping or too much diarrhea. It could also be from a polyp or a cancer. For these reasons, you should make an appointment for evaluation with gastroenterology for an evaluation. Please don’t ignore this.

Q: Why does the flu sometimes not respond to the flu shot?

A: The flu vaccination is just a few strains that are influenza

related. Unfortunately, the strain that affects us may not be the one in the flu shot. So, it seems to be a coin-toss from year to year. Overall, though, flu does create a lot of morbidity and thus, getting the flu shot is still advised in most cases.

Q: Getting tests done like a Colonoscopy, blood tests or

CT scans can be covered by my insurance, but it can be up to double, triple and five to seven times higher at hospitals. My insurance premiums worry me!

A: Yes, the cost differential between hospital facility fees

and endocenters, surgical centers or imaging centers is often several-thousand dollars. Deductibleshop, at www. deductibleshop.com, is an app platform that enables you to shop your deductible to save your medical, auto, home, and vet (pet) costs. As it grows in popularity, there will be more users that will want to make their information available to enable the consumer to better shop their deductible. It is my policy to serve the community well and to find the better value for them. If you need any help, please call my office at 630-2322025 and we will help you navigate.

IF YOU DO BREAST CANCER SCREENING, GET COLON CANCER SCREENING. It affects men and women BOTH and is the second leading cause of cancer deaths. It is VERY important to get this screening done - colon cancer is beatable and treatable if caught early enough through colon screening. HEARTBURN PATIENTS PLEASE COME TO GET EVALUATED FOR PRECANCEROUS BARRETT’S; ESOPHAGEAL CANCER HAS INCREASED IN THE PAST 4 DECADES. FREE BOTTLE OF A USANA VITAMIN WITH COMPLETED COLONOSCOPY FOR NEW CLIENTS* *Some restrictions may apply. Available while supply lasts.

Dear Dr. Mullick, My family never had polyps or cancer. Do I really need a colonoscopy? Jane

Dear Jane: Great question. Colon cancer can affect anyone, regardless of family history. Everyone over age 45 should get a colonoscopy. If you have family history you should start at age 40 or 10 to 15 years before the youngest relative with a problem. Screening helps reduce risk.

Dr. Mullick, I’ve got bloating and gas. Sometimes I have diarrhea or nausea after I eat. Could I have food allergies? My doctor said it’s IBS (irritable bowel). Kristen

Dear Kristen: Yes, food intolerances to lactose, sucrose and fructose are common, so you may need to avoid those. We have tests in the office for that. The symptoms of IBS and food allergies are often similar, so testing for food allergies is reasonable. We can test for that, too. We have helped many patients diagnosed with food allergies, so it’s not all IBS.

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TOM’S COOKBOOK LIBRARY:

‘Last Call’

Bartenders on Their Final Drink and the Wisdom and Rituals of Closing Time By TOM WITOM

B

rad Thomas Parsons, a veteran barkeep and James Beard Awardwinning author, is making waves with Last Call (Ten Speed Press) ever since the book’s release in late October.

Bartenders across the land shared their thoughts on the evolving closingtime experience and the last beverage they want to consume before they die. Parsons says responses varied as participants in the study pondered their personal favorites. For example, Joseph Stinchcomb at Saint Leo in Oxford, Miss. (His choice: the Last Word, a pre-Prohibitionera cocktail).Guido Martelli at Palizzi Social Club in Philadelphia favors an extradry Martini. The search for answers took Brooklyn-based Parsons to 80 locations across 23 cities in13 states. He was often accompanied by crackerjack photographer Ed Anderson. Two Chicago bars were among those who participated by providing input on favorite candidates for last call. One was highly rated Lost Lake tiki bar at 3154 W. Diversey Ave. in the Logan Square neighborhood. Co-owned by Shelby Allison and Paul McGee, Lost Lake

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follows last call tradition: that translates to slowly bringing up the lights and lowering the music volume. As for the final cocktail, Allison admits to a fondness for a crisp-tasting Negroni, which she deems a dependable drink. Meanwhile, for McGee, the spirit of choice for last call is rum – specifically, a Petit Punch better known as Ti’ Punch, an island drink popular in Martinique. The second Chicago watering hole highlighted is Sportsman’s Club, at 948 N. Western Ave., in the city’s Ukrainian Village neighborhood. The 70-yearold cash-only tavern picked up new owners in 2013, but it retains its classic clubby atmosphere and loyal customers, according to general manager Laura Kelton. The countdown for last call commences around 1:30 a.m. as customers settle their tab and take steps to call it a night. Kelton says she is partial to Stiggins’ Sherry Cobbler.

 Journalist Tom Witom, who lives

in Elgin, has written extensively for years about food and the food industry. Contact him at editorial@ kcchronicle.com.

LOST LAKE NEGRONI (MAKES ONE DRINK) • 12 ounces Fords gin • 3/4 ounce Campari • 3/4 ounce Lustau vermut rojo [a sweet Spanish vermouth] • GARNISH: orange twist Build the gin, Campari and vermouth rojo in an old-fashioned glass filled with ice and stir until chilled. Garnish with the orange twist.

STIGGINS’ SHERRY COBBLER (MAKES ONE DRINK) • 1/2 ounce Demerara simple sugar (1:1 Demerara sugar:water) • 1 large orange wheel • 2 large lemon wheels • 2 ounces Lustau amontillado sherry • 1/2 ounce Lustau PX sherry • 1/2 ounce Plantation Stiggins’ Fancy Pineapple Rum • Pinch of salt • GARNISH: lemon wheel, orange wheel, fresh mint leaves, Angostura bitters Combine the simple sugar, large orange wheel and large lemon wheels in a cocktail shaker and lightly muddle to incorporate the ingredients. Add both sherries, the rum, salt and one ice cube and quickly whip shake until the ice has diluted to bring the temperature down without adding too much water. Fine strain into a chilled collins glass filled with crushed ice. Add more crushed ice to top off if needed. Garnish with the lemon and orange wheels and the mint sprig. Douse the mint with 2 or 3 dashes of bitters.

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PRESERVATION M U S T- TA S T E D E S T I N AT I O N F O R CULINARY CREATIVITY B y Pa t Sz pek ows k i | Ph ot os Provided

I

n the midst of a bustling downtown Geneva, filled with incredible dining establishments, the innovative Preservation restaurant is a standout for its unique food selections and broad appealing wine list.

Temptations are offered with teasing menu headlines such as shareables, cheese plates, charcuteries, salads, soups, savory bites, flatbread pizzas, sandwiches, and more. Preservation’s intriguing self-description is noted as “preserving traditional preparation techniques.” It’s quite a testament to the commitment of owner Lawrence Colburn,

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who opened his restaurant ten years ago. What does it really mean? “We rub, cure, brine, and smoke all meats inhouse, with the exception of the charcuterie meats on our menu,” says Candice Widerski, Preservation’s general manager. “We are a made from scratch kitchen, so everything is prepared from scratch.” The house made bread sampler is a delicious artisan variety with a baguette, sourdough and focaccia. All breads can be topped off with a pastrami mousse and eggplant spread. “We bake most of our breads in house,” Widerski says.

The meats are an enhanced flavorful experience whether you choose from a warm or cold sandwich or savory bites. Cold sandwiches include a baguette roast beef with roasted onions and horseradish slaw, or a focaccia roasted vegetable with fresh mozzarella and a red pepper aioli, for those who prefer a meatless selection. Variety reigns with warm sandwich selections ranging from focaccia lamb sliders, dill rye Rueben, baguette Cubano with smoked pork loin and smoked pork shoulder, and a country roll pulled pork. According to Widerski, the most popular sandwich is the smoked turkey on grilled

DINING & ENTERTAINING MARCH 2020

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Shareables on the menu include a tasty bacon jam on grilled baguette, steak and/or grilled prawn skewers, spicy falafel, house made lox, and a Spanish olive mix. Large plates aren’t forgotten. Sea scallops, bistro filet, and a house made pasta special are available for dinner after 5:00pm. Cheese is a star player on the Preservation menu. For traditionalists, try the popular brioche grilled cheese that merges the melted flavors of butter kase and three-year cheddar together. Take a world-wide journey with the cheese plates featuring three different selections: There’s the European with exotic cheeses from France, Spain and Italy; the Spanish; and the United States

Two rich charcuterie boards offer guests an assortment of three delectable meats. With Springtime near, dining outside is a welcome pleasure. Preservation opened an outside bar last year. “We call it the Social Bar,” Widerski notes, “and we have live music six days a week.” Adding to the mix of pleasurable dining are beers and spirits, plus a very large selection of wines by the bottle or the glass. Every Wednesday at Preservation there are five bottles of wine offered for $20 each. “Lawrence is a sommelier, so wine is his thing,” said Widerski. “That’s the reason we have such a great wine list.” So, head on down to Preservation on South Third Street in Geneva and kick back outside and enjoy a memorable and flavorful meal.

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“We have a fantastic lunch special which includes a full sandwich and your choice of soup or salad for $11 every day,” Widerski says. “Our savory bites, which are little casserole dishes, are perfect to share. The shrimp and grits and short rib are the most popular.”

with pie-eyed goat cheese and gorgonzola from Wisconsin and a Kansas cottonwood river reserve cheddar. Also available is a Cow’s Milk cheese plate, and for those who prefer a pop, there’s the Bold Cheese plate, too.

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Smile

IRISH EYES

FOR ST. PATRICK’S EVENTS By Kevin Druley

P

oll a handful of regular attendees of the St. Charles St. Patrick’s Parade for a favorite element of the event and chances are you’ll get a few different answers. While the leprechaun costumes, marching bands, floats and Celtic pipe bands strike a different chord for some than others, the sum of their parts long has made paradegoers’ eyes – Irish and otherwise – smile.

“What makes this parade so special is the community celebration,” says Alyssa Feulner, marketing manager of the St. Charles Business Alliance, which produces the parade. “For over twenty years, that has been the main goal of this parade. The St. Charles St. Patrick’s Parade was actually started by local community members who are still very involved in the parade today.” The 2020 edition of the annual event is set to begin at 2p.m. March 14 at the intersection of Main and 6th streets in St. Charles, before proceeding down Main Street and concluding at 4th Avenue.

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Organizers expect about 100 entries to the parade, with many in that number clad in their Irish green. A crowd of thousands across all ages line Main Street for the spectacle of sights and sounds. “The family friendly event is all about the community,” Feulner says. “We have so many local businesses, organizations and nonprofits that walk in the parade, but also so many of our businesses open their doors the entire day with specials, events and lucky deals going on. There are a lot of entertainment entries, including Celtic pipe bands, BMX bikers, dancers and more to make this parade a blast. Make sure to come for the whole day to get the full experience.” For those interested in seeing the parade from a different angle, the Business Alliance will accept volunteer applications up to the date of the parade. For more information on the event or to apply as a volunteer, visit www.stcstpatricksparade.com.

SOMETHING SPECIAL At press time, the St. Charles Business Alliance still was compiling information on the whole enchilada (apologies for the nonIrish imagery, lads and lasses) of restaurant specials, deals and other events happening downtown on parade day, March 14. Business Alliance marketing manager Alyssa Feulner directed paradegoers to visit www. stcstpatricksparade.com/eventsaroundtown for an updated list as the event draws closer. Before the parade begins at 2 p.m., Flannery School of Irish Dance, 1400 Foundry St., St. Charles, will stage a free Irish dance performance at the Arcada Theatre, 105 E. Main St., beginning at 10 a.m. The event is set to include an interactive dance during which children will be invited on stage for a lesson. At about 10:30, Arcada will keep the free fun rolling with a screening of “The Luck of the Irish,” a 2001 Disney Channel original movie in which teenager Kyle Johnson (Ryan Merriman) vies for a gold charm to keep his family from the clutches of an evil leprechaun. Rest assured, a longtime staple of the St. Charles St. Patrick’s cultural scene, McNally’s Traditional Irish Pub, 109 W. Main St., will offer an array of food and drink specials, as well as dancing and musical performances. Visit www.mcnallyspub.com for more.

FAMILY IN FOCUS MARCH 2020

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WEST DUNDEE • 847-428-4483 • 125 Washington Street FAMILY IN FOCUS MARCH 2020

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DON T LET DON’T

Summer Vacation PLANS BECOME STRESSFUL BY CHRIS WALKER

D

o you want to get away this summer, but don’t know where to go, or even where to get started?

Well, no one wants to be so stressed about planning a getaway – or to plan one so poorly that they find themselves in dire need of another vacation to recover from the first vacation.

Before thinking about beaches, the grand canyon, Mickey Mouse or even Cedar Point’s Valravn – the tallest, fastest, longest dive rollercoaster in the United States – you’re going to need to answer a couple questions.  WEIGH YOUR OPTIONS How much money are you willing to spend on your summer vacation? Who will be going on this

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trip? Is it adults only, the entire family, or amongst friends? Once you have those questions answered, you can choose your destination. Of course, this likely has been in your head already, or at least some of the options, including those that likely have been repeated countless time by your children. That is unless the kids aren’t included in the plans, which is a bummer for them, but might be the kind of escape that you and your significant other deserve and desperately need.  GO PRO “I think there are so many vacation options that people get overwhelmed,” says Jessica Majchrowski, an independent travel consultant in St. Charles. “They see prices on the Internet

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but don’t know if they’re good deals. I’ll give them several options and we can go from there. My specialty is all-inclusive resorts. I’ve toured a hundred of them so I can give them a sense of what they’re like, which is much more then Expedia can tell you.” Karen Koller, an independent travel consultant in Sugar Grove for Dream Creators Travel, is as passionate about Disney as she is about saving her clients money. She knows that travelers can get lost on the Internet looking for accommodations and deals, but they also can locate experts like her. “You don’t have the Internet’s cell phone number,” Koller says. “I know intricate details on stuff that you might not think about, like Fast Pass services and stroller size limits at Disney. They prioritize travel

agent phone calls so I know who to contact and I’m always monitoring discounts and other deals.” Deciding a destination might not be difficult if the entire family has been dreaming about going to somewhere like Disney and it’s been a topic of discussion at the dinner table during too many meatloaves to mention. But, if no one is keen on a big destination, opting for a few smaller excursions during the summer probably is a better option.  SEIZE THE MOMENT And before you say, “let’s not doing anything this summer, but save for next year instead,” consider the now. There are no guarantees in the future and the benefits of a trip this summer are innumerable. “People should remember that you can make a small deposit and do a payment plan for many trips,”

Majchrowski says. “Another thing to consider is house rentals. They’re great for family with more kids and stuff and can be cheaper then hotels with more space, and the kids can have their own rooms and you can save money by cooking your own meals.” Regardless of your summer vacation, you’ll have to figure a lot of things out before you truly can relax and enjoy yourself. If it’s a trip for just the parents, who is going to watch the kids? If the whole family is packing into the station wagon, who is going to take care of the dogs and feed the fish? Who is going to check in on grandma who lives alone? Who will cut the grass? Who will regularly check on your home while you’re lying on the beach somewhere? Planning ahead should certainly help.

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‘A of HISTORY’ Memorial Program Plants Seeds for Many Generations By Sara Carlson

J

ackie Kilcran and her six siblings wanted something unique and meaningful to give to their parents for Christmas last year.

And they found what they were searching for, but they didn’t find it in a store. Nor were they able to wrap it with a bow. In fact, they couldn’t even bring it in the house. They had to bring their parents to the gift. Kilcran and her siblings presented their parents, John and Sara Schmitz of St. Charles, with a tree planted in Mt. St. Mary Park, their favorite park where they walk daily. The purple robe black locust tree is truly unique, as it’s the only one of its kind in St. Charles parks. It’s located along the walkway with a plaque that reads: “In honor of John and Sara Schmitz - True Example of Love.” “They said it was the best gift ever,” said Kilcran of St. Charles, who made the purchase through the St. Charles Park Foundation Memorial Program.

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which tree was best.

at Pottawatomie Golf Course.

That’s where David Svitak came in. The St. Charles Park District arborist suggested the purple robe black locust to add a new species to Mt. St. Mary Park, since it’s the district’s arboretum park. “It’s so unique and such a delight to have it there,” Kilcran agreed.

Golf Course Superintendent Denise Gillett-Parchert said they have several trees that have been planted to honor generations of family members who have played at Pottawatomie; friends who regularly golf together; as well as, loved ones who have died.

Svitak works with individuals throughout the tree planting process, which begins with an online application. He then meets with and educates them on why a certain tree is right for a particular location.

For Geneva resident Jeff Mertz, he planted six trees through the Memorial Program as a way to give back to Pottawatomie, where he plays regularly and volunteers his time in the off-season.

“I discuss how different species of trees will grow in different conditions and mature overtime,” he said. “We don’t want to overpopulate or crowd a particular area in a park, for example. But together, we find the right tree in the right location for families and friends to enjoy for many generations.”

“They love St. Charles, and they love that park. It’s a living piece of history and represents everything to them,” she added. “The tree is such a wonderful tribute.”

About 20 trees annually are planted through the Memorial Program. While more than half honor a loved one who has died, Svitak confirmed other reasons for planting a tree include celebrations such as anniversaries, engagements and retirements, as well as giving a unique gift.

Although Kilcran knew where she wanted to plant the tree, she needed advice on

The Memorial Program also includes benches in park district parks and trees

but it also leaves a legacy for many generations,” Gillett-Parchert said. For more information about the Memorial Program, visit https://www. stcparkfoundation.org/memorialprogram.

When he retired and after he had his right knee replaced, he became more active and found that Pottawatomie gave him the ability to play the sport he loved at a reasonable price. “Golf has kept me active and the people there are really great. I’m not sure where I’d be today without Pottawatomie,” Mertz said. “I wanted to give back to the golf course for that reason, so when I heard they were in need of trees, I planted two trees in each of my three daughters’ names,” he said. “Planting trees through the Memorial Program helps the environment and aids in the beautification of the golf course,

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Pinot's Palette

3823 E. MAIN ST. | ST. CHARLES 630-338-0278 | WWW.PINOTSPALETTE.COM/STCHARLES Pinot's Palette in St. Charles is a 2,500 square ft. art studio with two rooms; a public classroom for up to 48 people and a private event room for up to 36 people. The studio offers Open Studio events during most school holidays and breaks, as well as Little Brushes Kid's Camp during the summer. Kids don't need to have artistic skills to have fun and paint at the Pinot's Palette, experienced instructors guide them step by step through the painting. Call the studio with questions or check out our online event calendar. www.pinotspalette.com/stcharles/events

Color Me Mine Geneva

1306 COMMONS DRIVE | GENEVA 630-262-9000 | WWW.GENEVA.COLORMEMINE.COM

Color Me Mine is a locally, veteran-owned, paint-your-own ceramics studio. The studio glazes and fires all of the ceramic pieces in its on-site kilns. Color Me Mine Geneva is a walk-in studio with no reservations needed. The studio also hosts everything from birthday parties, team buildings, and wedding showers to office/holiday parties and more, with monthly events for kids and adults. Color Me Mine Geneva offers Summer Camp classes Tuesday - Wednesday from June thru August. Check out our events calendar at geneva.colormemine. com/calendar/. Making memories for all! *Mention this article for $5 off your first visit!

Summer Camps

ST. CHARLES PARK DISTRICT 630-513-6200 | WWW.STCPARKS.ORG

St. Charles Park District offers a variety of camp programs and schedules to guarantee summer fun for everyone – DAY CAMPS, FARM CAMPS, NATURE CAMPS & SPORTS CAMPS! Ages 3+ will enjoy all sorts of activities: OUTDOOR FUN, SWIMMING, CRAFTS, MINIGOLF, SCIENCE EXPERIMENTS, HIKES, FIELD TRIPS AND MORE. Before and after camp care available. Counselors are trained in CPR & First Aid. Reasonable rates. For more details, visit stcparks.org/register.

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ADD LOCAL

EXCITEMENT

Spring Break With

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STAYCATIONS By Chris Walker | Photos provided

YOU DON’T HAVE TO TRAVEL FAR TO HAVE FUN WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS – CHECK OUT THESE GREAT STAYCATION IDEAS:  AIR CLASSICS MUSEUM OF AVIATION Did you know that that Chicagoland’s Largest Aviation Museum is located at Aurora Municipal Airport, 44w546 U.S. Rte. 30 in Sugar Grove? The museum’s collection includes aircraft, vehicles, uniforms and other aviation memorabilia from the 1930s to the present. You can even climb into the pilot’s seat of a UH-1 Huey helicopter. Air Classics chronicles the critical role of aviation and teaches visitors through its unique exhibits, educational programs and flight operations. Open to the public on weekends only from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. $10 adults/$7 seniors/$5 children (5 to 15 years of age)/FREE for children under 5 years of age. Opens April 18.  PHILLIPS PARK You can spend a little time or a full day at Phillips Park, on Ray Moses

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Dr. in Aurora. The kids will love seeing the alligator, otter, mountain lion, hawks, pythons, turtles and more at the free zoo, as well as checking out the Mastodon Gallery where mastodon bones unearthed during the park’s construction are on display. The 325-acre park is also home to an 18-hole golf course, family aquatic center with pools, slide, sand volleyball and more, dog park, one-mile walking/running/ biking path with fitness stations, boat docks for those interested in boating, canoeing and kayaking, BMX/skate park ,playgrounds, tennis courts, breathtaking sunken gardens, World War I cannon and related memorabilia and picnic areas. Visit: www.enjoyaurora.com.  DISC GOLF What’s a simple, uncomplicated activity that’s also inexpensive, invites social interaction, offers some good physical exercise and can be done by all ages, all sexes and all skill levels? Disc golf. Simply trying to throw a flying disc

into a wire disc golf basket around a picturesque, wooded course is something you just need to experience, and having the whole gang along can make for a whole lot of family fun. Aurora (Jericho Lake, 39W365 Jericho Rd.), Batavia (West Main Park, 40W101 W. Main St.), Geneva (The Links at Wheeler Park, 101 N. St.), and St. Charles (Campton Hills, Campton Hills Dr.) all have courses that are absolutely 100 percent free to play.  FUNWAY Originally a small go-kart track at its start more than 60 years ago, Funway, 1335 S. River St., Batavia, is now Illinois’ largest entertainment

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 KANE COUNTY FLEA MARKET In the late sixties, Helen Robinson had the darnedest idea of starting a flea market. Now, over 50 years later, the Kane County Flea Market is still going strong with more than 600 dealers visiting each month with books, countless antiques, clothing, comics, toys and games, collectibles, decorations, antique and vintage furniture, jewelry and more. The market is held on the first Sunday of each month and

the preceding Saturday from March through December at 525 S. Randall Rd. Concessions will keep your belly full while wandering your way through the hundreds of dealers. Open noon - 5 p.m., Saturday; 7 a.m. - 4 p.m., Sunday. $5 per person. (Children under 12 are free). Free parking.  FERMILAB Do you know that the United States’ premier particle physics laboratory is virtually in your backyard in Batavia? Does touring a facility where the vision is to solve the mysteries of matter, energy, space and time for the benefit of all mankind pique your interest? Fermilab offers “get-to-know” tours for people 10 and older. There are also Ask-A-Scientist tours on Sundays, tours of the Zero detector and experiences for ages 14 and older on the first Tuesday of the month, as well as self-guided tours every day of the week. In addition, visitors can explore the public-access portion of Fermilab’s natural areas by car, bike and foot during open hours. Kirk Rd. & Pine St., Batavia: 630-840-3000.

rs Burge

Steak s

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Pasta

Ribs

Soups D

esse rts 306 W State Street Downtown Geneva 630-208-7070 www.stockholmsbrewpub.com

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B Root

Photo by: Reidar Hahn

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center. If you’re looking for fun there’s only one way to go, Funway! Indoors, there’s a huge arcade as well as laser tag. Lace up the skates and go roller skating or trade in your shoes for bowling ones and show your inner Lebowski or beat up on each other with the bumper cars. If you feel the need, the need for speed, then the new Fast Track Go Kart Raceway is ideal for you. There’re also mini Indy go-karts, Eagle karts and two-seater go-karts. There are lots of sports fun outside with mini golf, the jump shot (with trampoline) basketball game, batting cages, bumper boats, a water wars game and more: www.funway.com.

Monthly Food Specials Six Homemade Soups Daily Monthly Beer Dinners Seasonal Brews $3.50 Daily Handcrafted Beer Specials &.# )/"'%.4- )00+ (%%. 3*($ 5,!12

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Welcome to the Jungle... W

tthe INDOOR Kind!

With Chrissy Somers, www.FamiliesOnTheFox.com

Here’s an idea… let’s bring our garden INSIDE. Hear me out. Although this winter has been mild and Punxsutawney Phil in fact did NOT see his shadow, we still have a ways to go before Planting Season… I mean, if we’re being honest with ourselves. But hope for all things green and flowering is not lost! Have you considered an INDOOR GARDEN? House plants? Cute planters? Hanging macrame baskets? Studies have shown that indoor plants not only help with air quality and circulation, but they also have

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the ability to boost our mood, productivity, and concentration while reducing our stress and fatigue. So why don’t more people have houseplants if they have all these wonderful benefits? Here are the most common excuses I have heard. And I am here to DEBUNK. THEM. ALL.

EXCUSE #1:

“But I don’t have a Green Thumb.” I get it. Having a houseplant die on you is frustrating. But maybe - JUST MAYBE - you killed that houseplant because [gasp] it wasn’t properly suited for your style of living. Let me explain…

When I go into a plant shop or greenhouse, I always ask for low maintenance houseplants. I further explain with great candor that I will most definitely skip a watering here or there because of my forgetful nature with these things.

EXCUSE #2:

I don’t know about you, but if I have to change around MY schedule for a PLANT, that sucker doesn’t stand a chance at survival.

These greenhouses, nurseries, and plant shops are open YEAR ROUND to meet your houseplant-loving needs:

As long as you are not trying to fool yourself with your plant care abilities (or lack thereof), the experts in the greenhouses or plant shops will be able to guide you to several plants that fit your lifestyle. Have allergies? There’s a houseplant for that. Have stress? There’s a houseplant for that. Need more energy? There’s a houseplant for that! Which leads us to our next excuse…

“Where do you even find a good quality houseplant around here?”

GROW GENEVA | GENEVA If you question how houseplants can possibly change your mood, just walk into GROW Geneva. You truly get a sense of calm and serenity… and in my case, you get an urge to buy ALL THE PLANTS. Laura and her staff are so diligent about ensuring you select the plant that is best suited for your needs. Along with a large variety of houseplants, GROW carries various planters, hanging baskets, and succulent garden containers as well!

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See Our Featured Recipe of the Month

HEINZ BROTHERS GREENHOUSE ST. CHARLES Huge selection of indoor houseplants, planters, and even a great selection of outdoor plants should springtime actually come sooner rather than later. Flowering plants. Plants with beautiful foliage. Hanging plants. Prickly plants. Succulents. SHADY HILL GARDENS | ELBURN Shady Hill is open nearly year round. Closing for a couple months in the early part of the year, they will be celebrating their Opening Day on March 23, 2020. There is a heavy focus on geraniums and outdoor plants, though you can still find several houseplant options in the greenhouses. Now that you have your plant, you may ask yourself…

EXCUSE #3:

“Where am I supposed to put this thing?” (SEE ALSO: “My cat will eat it if it’s too low.” “My kids destroy any form of life in this house.”) Bringing a new life home always involves a little more responsibility and diligence. That being said, if you got the right houseplant for your lifestyle, you will do just fine helping it thrive. Styling with houseplants is SO fun! Don’t be afraid of getting plants

with different color leaves, different heights, different sizes. When you mix all this together, it makes for a more aesthetically appealing focal point. HERE ARE SOME STYLING TIPS WITH YOUR NEW PLANTS: • If you have open shelving or a tray on your couch or ottoman, lay a couple books flat on the surface and put a smaller plant on top. BONUS POINTS if it has cascading leaves.

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Mon-Fri 10am-6pm ~ Thurs 10am-8pm ~ Sat 10am-5:30pm ~ Sun 11am-4pm

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• Remember how we shared that houseplants can reduce stress and increase productivity? Find a place that stress tends to live, like a home office or workspace, and add those houseplants. • Bathrooms and basements should not be neglected when finding a home for your new green babies. Houseplants help with air circulation… see what I’m saying…. These are the PERFECT spots for houseplants! • If you are all about practicality and functionality, then perhaps you need a Living Herb Wall in your kitchen. A windowsill herb garden also works!

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• Want to get those kids involved in gardening too? Create a fairy garden with super lowmaintenance succulents and allow them to care for it in their room (if they are mature enough for such responsibility, of course).

630 W. State St., Geneva (331) 248-0646 www.statestdiner.com

Flip

The benefits of houseplants far outweigh some of the responsibility they come with. Try your hand at a houseplant or two and I assure you that, if you picked the right plants for your needs, you will soon become addicted to them as I did. Just try to avoid being called “The Crazy Plant Lady.” Actually… on second thought… don’t avoid it. #GOALS

Chrissy Somers is the owner of Families on the Fox, a website that serves as a free resource to the Tri-City community. A daily events calendar, indoor fun resource guide, seasonal events, pre-planned date nights, adult fun outings, and more can be found when you visit www. FamiliesOnTheFox.com Photo by Katie Kaltz Photography

Homemade Skincare Products made with Olive Oil: Soaps ~ Lip Balms ~ Moisturizers

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WASCO NURSERY | ST. CHARLES Although Wasco Nursery has seemingly endless options for landscaping, waterscapes, and outdoor gardens, you are still able to find several plants that work indoors as well. Big believers in brining the community together, Wasco Nursery hosts events regularly for kids and adults alike.

Come taste 60 different extra virgin olive oils and balsamic vinegars from all over the world. Unique Gift Baskets Available.

Family Hair Care A Courteous Comfortable Salon Where Everyone is Welcome

Celebrating 10 Years! We’re locally owned & operated with fair service pricing and quality experienced stylists here to serve your every hair care need.

Call for an appointment, Always looking for talented stylists!

or just walk in!

500 Lark Street, Geneva, IL 60134

630-232-8200

www.flipfamilyhaircare.com FAMILY IN FOCUS MARCH 2020

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Aren’t Just for Prom Anymore

P

rom Season: The time of year when teenagers flock to stores to buy fancy dressees for their upcoming dance to culminnate their high school years.

While Batavia’s Special Occasions on thee Avenue is always especially busy dduring prom season, owner Mary Marconi-Popiel M has found that her shop has become so much more than juust a destination for prom dressees. Marcooni-Popiel first opened the boutiqque in 2008, but her history with thhe fashion business goes back much ffurther than that. Her father, Joe Maarconi, once owned a wedding dress sshop that stood in the same spot, aand Marconi-Popiel has been in fashhion since she graduated from collegee.

INCREASING SOPHISTICATION “I’m known for prom and homecoming, but I’m getting more and more women crossing over,” Marconi-Popiel says. “Prom isn’t prom anymore. The dresses are a lot more sophisticated, so I have a lot of women looking for dresses for social events.” Special Occasions dresses are ideal for a number of different events, including black tie events, weddings, holiday parties, galas and other formal events. “A lot of the classic styles can cross over to anyone, anywhere,” she says, noting that while a lot of dresses are classified as “prom” dresses, they can become so much more than that.

MULTI-PURPOSE

“All of the lines I carry have prom and evening lines and really, prom is so sophisticated now,” Marconi-

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By Allison Horne Photos from Special Occasions

Popiel says, adding that many of o the designers she features can be seen on the red carpet or evven on television with shows like Thhe Bachelor. “Prom designers are the t cutting edge of what is going on o in formal dresses.” Some of the designers Special Occasions carries that are greaat examples of dresses that can cater to any kind of event include Jovani, La Femme, Faviana, Alycce Paris and Mac Duggal. “Right now, I’m seeing a lot of fitted silhouettes,” MarconiPopiel says. “Simple dresses are in.” Color is also a huge factor for these dresses to work for formaal events. Black, navy, burgundy, gold and red have been extremely popular for her clientele. In a loot of cases, she can also custom order a dress if someone likes a design, but not the color.

“You can definitely buy what we have on the floor, but we can also special-order things to adjust the size and color,” Marconi-Popiel says. “We will do whatever we can to help.” If someone isn’t interested in buying a new dress or simply wants to glam up their look for an evening out, Marconi-Popiel can also assist with some simple changes that will make all the difference. “Often, women will have one dress and accessorize for different occasions,” she says. “We carry belts, sequined belts, necklaces, earrings, and plenty of other jewelry.”

While Special Occasions may be known for prom dresses, they can also offer so much more than that. “Prom has become a little more red carpet,” MarconiPopiel says. “Everybody wants to look great. There really is an Audrey Hepburn sophistication in dresses right now.” Now all you need is an event to attend.

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SOCIAL

Life

ď ° CHARLEMAGNE AWARDS DINNER

St. Charles Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual Charlemagne Awards dinner in February. St. Charles Attorney Bob Gorecki was named the 2020 Charlemagne Award Winner. Photos by Sandy Bressner

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HINSDALE • GENEVA • ST. CHARLES

Semi Annual Sale All Wines on Sale All Weekend

10 - 40% Off ! Saturday & Sunday, April 18th & 19th SavWay Geneva 515 W. State Street Saturday & Sunday, April 25th & 26th SavWay St. Charles 2580 E. Main Street

Tasting Presentations from 2-5pm each day; St. Charles location is limited to one Saturday 2-5pm tasting. BUSINESS & CIVIC MARCH 2020

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Managing W the Luck of the

h s i r I

ith a name of Thomas Sean McCartney, you will not be surprised that St. Patrick’s Day is looked forward to each year with great anticipation. It is heartwarming and somewhat amusing in that on this day all people seem to claim to be Irish regardless of surname. In merriment, often the well-intentioned wish friends and family to have the “Luck of the Irish” with a heartfelt toast, nod, and a smile.

This is ironic as those learned Irish know the “luck of the Irish” to be bittersweet. The Irish lived in a land that was taken from them (the Vikings and the British, to name a few) and where they fought to survive famines and hardship. Those that immigrated to the U.S. fought prejudice against both their ethnicity and Catholicism as they struggled to find their place. It could just as easily be said that the luck of the Irish relates to centuries of haunting losses and pain. Just as there are two sides to having the “luck of the Irish”, there can be varying opinions on owning Stocks or to owning Bonds in your investment portfolio. Although history dating back to before the Great Depression shows equity investors outperforming bond investors, the reality is that this strategy has not always benefited investors and truth be told it is still a good idea to own both. Let’s take a closer look by revisiting the basics:

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As equity markets continue to push this bull market ahead, it is tempting to allow your portfolio to get more and more aggressive as the pain of a bear market may be a faded memory. Should you find yourself tempted to take on more risk with equities than you have historically been comfortable with, let’s look at a time period Baby Boomers will remember with the S&P 500 serving as a proxy for equities and onemonth US Treasury bills as a proxy for bonds: 1

The Importance of Long Term Discipline Annualized Compound Returns (%)

S&P 500 I ndex One-Month US Treasury Bills

1926-2018 1965-1981 1982-2018 9.99% 6.33% 11.30% 3.34% 6.67% 3.83%

Owning bonds in your portfolio, even during a historically low interest rate environment, can serve several purposes including that of acting as a sort of “shock absorber” for when stocks correct. For additional insights, reach out to your financial advisor or give my team a call. In the interim, and as Tuesday, March 17th approaches, from our firm to you:

“

May neighbors respect you, trouble neglect you, the angels protect you, and Heaven accept you.

FILE# 2946358.1

-Anonymous

”

1 In US Dollars. S&P data © 2019 S&P Dow Jones Indices LLC, a division of S&P Global. All rights reserved. 1-Month Treasury Bills Index is the IA SBBI US 30 Day T-Bill TR USD. Treasury Index data sourced from Ibbotson Associates, via Morningstar Direct. For illustrative purposes only. Indices are not available for direct investment. Their performance does not reflect the expenses associated with the management of an actual portfolio. Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Values change frequently, and past performance may not be repeated. There is always the risk that an investor may lose money.

 Tom McCartney is the Founding Principal of My Advisor & Planner and a registered representative and investment advisory representative with M Securities. Investments in securities involve risks, including the possible loss of principal. My Advisor & Planner is independently owned and operated. McCartney and his team can be reached at info@ mapyourfuture.net or 630-457-4068.

Photo by Indre Cantero

Securities and Investment Advisory Services offered through M Holdings Securities, Inc. (Member FINRA/SIPC). My Advisor & Planner is independently owned and operated. File #0709-2018

BUSINESS & CIVIC MARCH 2020

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USE CODE

SECRET

TO SAVE ONLINE!

THE SECRET’S OUT! THROUGH MARCH 29

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SM-CL1747994

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We can create any of your remodeling ideas, from design to installation We Do It All.

FINE CUSTOM CABINETRY AWARD-WINNING DESIGNERS AND ARTISAN TRADESMEN

To see this kitchen visit Havlicek Builder’s, Cooper Woods model in Geneva.

321 Stevens Street, Geneva • 630.232.9500 • www.genevacabinetgallery.com HOURS: Monday-Friday 9am-5pm or by appointment

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