MARCH 2026
The Geneva Wedding Hunt is on Page 22
Batavia's new Wine Walk celebrates the arrival of spring Page 26
A treasured place to recharge Page 7
Green spaces get reimagined Page 12
How designers are making the difference • Page 8
This time of year, I am always ready for winter to vanish while bright green buds start to show on trees, shrubs and early-blooming flora. New beginnings take root and suddenly motivation for a fresh environment grabs hold. As March is our first homes issue of the year, take this as your inspiration to get a head start on some of those ever-present domiciliary tasks, inside and out.
If you’ve been eyeballing the neighbor’s reinvented garage that’s become an enviable bonus room, check out page 16 to get some ideas and advice on how to transform your own. Looking to get ahead on landscaping and backyard vibes? Don’t miss our green space ideas on page 12. For that extra finishing outdoor touch, we’ve included a closer look at front porch living (page 7).
Beyond a fresh palette of home decór and reimaginings, learn more about some exciting new festivals and events coming to town! For brides-to-be and their families, the
Geneva Wedding Hunt is right around the corner (page 22). New this year is Batavia's Step Into Spring: Wine Walk – sure to be a tasty experience (page 26). And don’t forget to check out the revival of an old favorite in JULIETS Weekend, coming to Geneva this April (page 34).
As always, we strive to include a diverse set of stories, advice and perspectives for our readers to enjoy. Have a great start to your spring season, thank you for reading, and don’t forget to sign up for our Kane County Magazine newsletter to see your favorite stories online!
Kelley White, Editor
Shannon Peppeard is the owner and principal designer at Peppeard Design and the founder of The Pep Line in St. Charles. Learn more on page 8!
Next month: Discover tips and trends about spring fashion in the April issue of Kane County Magazine!
PUBLISHER
Kane County Chronicle & Northwest Herald Laura Shaw 630-709-4497 lshaw@shawmedia.com
EDITOR
Kelley White kwhite@shawmedia.com
DESIGNER
Julie Barichello 815-431-4072 jbarichello@shawmedia.com
SENIOR MARKETING SPECIALIST
Kane County Chronicle & Niche Publishing Tricia Walter 630-345-0066 twalter@shawmedia.com
CORRESPONDENTS
Jonathan Bilyk, Vicki Martinka Petersen, Melissa Rubalcaba Riske, Grace Rosati, Diane Krieger Spivak and Chris Walker
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 7717 S. Route 31, Crystal Lake, IL 60014
7 FRONT PORCH LIVING A treasured place to recharge
8 BRINGING STYLE HOME
How interior designers make a difference
10 THE HOUSE OF FIREPLACES
Add warmth and atmosphere to your home this spring
12 BACKYARD REVIVAL
Homeowners reimagine their green spaces
14 COMPLETE FENCE
For 50 years, they’ve been built to last
15 ARMBRUST PLUMBING & HEATING
More than a century of dependability and a legacy you can trust
16 GARAGE GLOW-UP
Redefine and reimagine a new living space
18 FIRST-TIME HOMEBUYING
Realtor shares tips to ease the process
20 LOCAL EXPERTISE
Your guide to professionals for improvement, repair and renovation
& LIFESTYLE
22 SAY ‘I DO’ TO SOMETHING NEW
The Geneva Wedding Hunt is on 24 SPRING RESET
Refreshing your body and skin after winter
25 COLOR ME HAPPY
DePaw Pet Resort talks safe dyes for pet hair
26 RAISE A GLASS
Batavia’s new Wine Walk celebrates the arrival of spring
28 TAKING A NEW ROUTE
Suburban Superdad reflects on the unpredictable nature of family life
30 PLAY, LEARN, DISCOVER
St. Charles Park District offers kids an early jump on education
32 WAREHOUSE 55
Discover vintage treasure in downtown Batavia
34 JULIETS WEEKEND
This shopping and dining event is back in town
35 GRAB A BOOKMARK
Don’t miss Geneva Public Library’s recommendations for March
36 ARTIST OF THE MONTH
Director of Exhibitions at WSS, Steve Sherrell is bold in his creativity
38 DIVERSIFICATION
Why it's beneficial to spread capital across multiple asset classes
By Diane Krieger Spivak
fter a long and very cold winter, cabin fever is reaching a screeching pitch. With spring literally just around the corner, the days are getting longer, the temperatures rising, and before we know it, the outdoors will be beckoning us Midwesterners.
And one of our favorite ways to enjoy the warmer weather? On the front porch. These Midwestern musthaves have been a staple in communities across the country for years. In fact, porches remain the most common outdoor feature on new homes, according to the National Association of Home Builders, based on a survey by the U.S. Census Bureau. The data shows 67% of about 1 million single-family homes started in 2024 included porches. They are even more popular on new builds than patios and decks, the survey shows.
When COVID hit and people were told to stay home, many headed out to their front porches — and they are still heading there. The reasons are many: fresh air, relaxation and a sense of community, whether that means a couple of rocking chairs to watch the world go by or going full-on front porch living with a grill, table, sofa, rugs and a ceiling fan for hot summer days, along with a space heater for crisp fall nights.
Shannon Heckman, who co-owns The Vintage Marketplace Company in North Aurora with her mother, Phyllis Barber, sees customers browsing the shop’s outdoor area for items such as bistro sets and plant stands to enhance front porch living.
“It’s anything somebody can repurpose in a new way on their porch,” Heckman said. “People are so imaginative, it’s refreshing. I’ve seen old hanging light fixtures turned into plant hangers.
“I feel like it’s just an extension of their home,” she continued. “They’re eating outside on their front porch, they’re having their morning coffee outside
on their front porch, they’re having their down time. I have a close neighbor who sits on her front porch a lot during warmer months to watch her show on her laptop and to watch what’s going on in the neighborhood. She likes to color with her pencils and coloring books outside in quiet time to bring her brain down from the day. We actually call it porch time. She says, ‘Are you up for some porch time?’ and we’ll sit and catch up. I think there’s a resurgence of going back to disconnecting from digital life and having a nice place to do that.”
“Porches are an extension of the house that still have a cozy feeling,” said Errki Sillaste, who co-owns DSH Painting and Remodeling. “They might be covered, or might not be, but you’re stepping into a threshold area where there’s still exposure to the outdoors while not fully on the ground.”
Sillaste recently replaced a bulky railing on a front porch with a more minimal design that offered the homeowner a better view of a nearby lake. He has also added several upstairs balconies, creating second-floor porches so homeowners can enjoy the outdoors right off their bedrooms.
“I think people are being called to experience the outdoors again,” Sillaste said.
From room makeovers to redesigning an entire living space, there are times when it pays to bring in an expert, such as interior designer Shannon Peppeard, owner and principal designer of Peppeard Design and founder of The Pep Line in St. Charles. She and her staff enjoy welcoming customers into The Pep Line and offering advice on giving a room a fresh look.
“Something as simple as the perfect pillow can make a space,” Peppeard said. “Adding some real plants and real greens can brighten up a room.”
Also in St. Charles, the team at Trend + Relic enjoys helping customers, whether they are adding furnishings that are vintage, upcycled or new. The staff also supports do-it-yourself projects, whether that means adding a new coat of paint or refinishing an existing piece.
There are also times when it makes sense to bring in a professional, whether to refresh a room or remodel an entire space. Interior designer Kristie Sandoval spent nearly 16 years in the construction industry before launching her solo business, Alaric Design, in St. Charles. She will celebrate the business’ 10th anniversary in April.
“As an interior designer, I know what’s a load-bearing wall and I know what’s behind it,” Sandoval said. “I can create construction plans, floor plans, map out electric so when we give it to a contractor we can tell them exactly what we want.”
By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske • Photos by Ryan Ocasio Photography and provided by Shannon Peppeard
Becoming an interior designer requires national accreditation through a qualified program. Sandoval said she wanted to go beyond certification to better serve her clients when it comes to improving their homes. Her skills allow her to guide clients through design, ordering materials, budgeting and finding contractors to complete projects.
“I’ve worked with clients for updating a small powder room to the new construction of a house,” Sandoval said. “With a project, you are investing a lot and it pays to have a professional.”
Hiring a professional does not always equate to higher costs. Sandoval said she can often help clients save time and money, from understanding material order timelines to finding contractors who can complete projects within expected time frames.
“I work with all different styles, all different budgets,” Sandoval said.
Along with kitchen and bathroom remodels, Sandoval said she has seen a recent uptick in young professionals looking to bring a sense of sophistication to their living spaces.
“They want to invest in their home,” Sandoval said, noting the removal of bars from living rooms and other holdover pieces from college years.
Sandoval said she has helped transform “bachelor pads” into homes that evoke a look that is both masculine and polished.
Back at The Pep Line, Peppeard said she enjoys connecting with customers and sharing her more than 20 years of experience in the design business. Over time, she noticed many customers wanted help creating a complete look or improving entire spaces.
“People were coming into the shop and asking ‘What do I do with that? How do I style that?’” Peppeard said.
She launched Pep Van Styling, a service that allows customers to bring her design expertise directly into their homes for small-scale makeovers.
Peppeard said she has loved playing with colors, styles and living spaces since she was a child.
“Color to me is something I can do. It’s a passion. I can look at a space and know immediately,” Peppeard said. “I feel so fortunate. I am so passionate about what I do for a living.”
Peppeard said she makes time to listen to clients, understand each home and design spaces that create classic looks.
“I don’t think of trends. Trends come and go. I appreciate a room where we are going to have longevity.
Something timeless, classic and a design aesthetic that is not going to look outdated in two, five years. Any room will last longer if you elect for a mix of style,” Peppeard said.
And, Peppeard added, it is important to create spaces that feel comfortable and lived in.
“A space that feels lived in will feel beautiful,” Peppeard said.
By Vicki Martinka Petersen • Photo provided by The House of Fireplaces
There’s nothing like coming home on a chilly day and settling in around a cozy fire. For more than 70 years, Majestic Distributing Co.’s House of Fireplaces in Elgin has helped homeowners bring that warmth into their own homes.
A true one-stop shop, House of Fireplaces offers indoor and outdoor fireplaces, along with the mechanics needed to keep them operating properly, including fireplace parts, stoves, inserts and gas logs.
Customers can browse the showroom to choose from wood-burning, vent-free and electric fireplace systems. This
family-owned company also carries wood stoves, fire pits, fire tables, and gas and charcoal grills.
If you don’t have a chimney, a directvent fireplace may be an option. Unlike a traditional fireplace, which features an open burning chamber that vents through a chimney, a direct-vent fireplace does not require one and can vent horizontally through a sidewall or vertically through the roof. This type of fireplace heats a room while keeping it free of fumes and combustible materials such as embers or ash.
Homeowners can add a decorative touch through a variety of aesthetic options, including glass doors, stone
facings, inserts and mantels. Fireplace accessories are also available, from screens and tool sets to hearth pads and decorative fire glass.
Once you’ve made your selection, House of Fireplaces’ experienced technicians can handle installation of wood or gas fireplaces and stoves, fireplace inserts, glass doors, gas logs, mantels, custom woodwork, face stone or replacement parts.
For homeowners with existing fireplaces, the staff can help troubleshoot issues such as faulty pilot lights, blocked chimneys or low heat output. A technician can inspect the system, identify the problem and complete needed repairs.
If you use your fireplace frequently, House of Fireplaces recommends annual cleaning and inspection to help keep it operating safely and efficiently. Technicians are available to provide this routine maintenance.
Not sure where to begin? House of Fireplaces’ specialists can guide you through every step of the process — from product selection to professional installation and ongoing service. They’ll help you explore options that complement your home, lifestyle and design goals, ensuring your fireplace performs beautifully while enhancing your space.
To get started, call 847-741-5903 or visit www.majesticdistributing.com.
By Cayden Wells | Photos provided by Matt Zerby
Imagine stepping through your back door and leaving the digital hum of a home office behind, replaced by the gentle rustle of prairie dropseed and the rhythmic flutter of a monarch butterfly. As the frost of another Kane County winter melts, many residents are looking at their yards not only as property to maintain, but as potential sanctuaries for rest, connection and even a bit of homegrown flavor.
Whether you are moving into one of the long-established 1980s-era neighborhoods or looking to refresh a long-standing family plot, the goal is identical. It’s about transforming a simple patch of grass into a vibrant, multifunctional retreat.
With more people working from home, the backyard has become a critical “third space,” where privacy finally meets the natural world.
The trend in recent years is native plants. But many homeowners hesitate. They fear a native garden leads to a messy, overgrown eyesore that will annoy the HOA. Matt Zerby, president of Wasco Nursery, suggests a middle ground, with what he calls “wellbehaved” natives. These are plants that offer ecological benefits without
conquering your entire suburban lot.
“Not every native Illinois plant is going to be suitable for your small, postagestamp lot,” Zerby explained. “There are a fair number of plants that we put into the well-behaved list. Those plants aren’t going to spread quite as fast, and aren’t as aggressive in overtaking your space.”
For that intentional look, try prairie smoke. Or consider the native baptisia, also known as false indigo or wild indigo.
“Foodscaping” is bridging the gap between the vegetable patch and the ornamental bed. It’s seamless. Instead of hiding a garden in the back corner, residents are weaving edible plants directly into their front-facing landscapes.
“Working native or edible plants into a normal landscape flow, rather than setting aside a separate garden area, can certainly work,” Zerby said. “Many edible plants are actually quite attractive. You could substitute a traditional flowering shrub, like a spirea, with a blueberry bush. They are ornamental and function beautifully as a small shrub.”
Kale, cabbage and eggplant have high
ornamental value. Their textures work as beautiful fillers in a perennial bed. If you want a larger presence, swap your ornamental trees for edible ones.
“Instead of using a flowering tree, such as a magnolia or lilac tree in the corner, you could use an apple tree, just a real edible apple tree in the middle of the ornamental bed.”
How you use your space dictates the choice between “hardscaping” and “softscaping.” Zerby sees a divide in the community. On one side are the social hubs. On the other are the retreats.
The social hub is built for entertaining. Think patios, fire pits and outdoor kitchens.
“I would say patios and fire pits are on the easier end. You can get those installed without going through a massive construction process, and it’s not going to necessarily break the bank,” Zerby noted. “Once the project moves to outdoor kitchens or in-ground pools, the budget is going to increase drastically.”
Then there’s the wellness retreat. The goal here is to sit among the plants. Zerby recommends creating spaces where you can interact with the garden rather than just spectating.
“Now we’re bringing garden beds, and we’re increasing them in size. We’re adding paths, or maybe it’s a sitting area that is out in the garden. Rather than sitting on the patio or pool deck looking out at something, you’re actually sitting in and amongst the plants.”
Zerby recommends those interested in redoing their yards seek professional guidance early.
“The information that you get by doing that talking to someone who really knows is invaluable. You end up not having to redo work that you’ve already spent time and money on,” Zerby said.
“We see that a lot when people just kind of venture out on their own, they do a bunch of stuff, doesn’t really pan out, then they have to redo it.”
In addition, Zerby also recommends buying local.
“You get what you pay for. Plant material that was grown locally versus grown down in the south and then shipped here tends not to do nearly as well. That local plant material is going to do far better.”
A backyard is more than a property line. Whether you’re building a social hub for friends and family or a pocket prairie for pollinators, the real value is in the connection to the land beneath your feet.
940 Kingsland Drive, Batavia, IL 815-380-2300
www.completefence.com
By Chris Walker • Photos by Jason Nowitzki Photography, LLC
For 50 years, every project at Complete Fence has begun with a conversation and culminated in a fence installation the company is proud to stand behind.
“As a family-owned business that’s also a veteran-owned company, we believe fencing is about more than just materials — it’s about people, trust and doing the job right,” says Charmaine Fioretto, general manager of residential services for Complete Fence. “I truly feel proud to work for a company that cares so much about its employees. The focus on building team relationships here is unlike anywhere else. Complete Fence is a company that is determined to do things differently by investing in its employees and the local community.”
Complete Fence provides residential services in Kane County and throughout Illinois, Northwest Indiana, and Southern Wisconsin, along with commercial fencing projects across the country.
With free, no-obligation estimates and a wide variety of fencing options, Complete Fence sets itself apart from the competition. Wood, vinyl/PVC, chain-link, ornamental, composite and specialty gates and railings are among the most popular options. The company offers full installations as well as repairs.
“Our installers care about your yard, your property and the finished result,” Fioretto says. “We take the time to get to know our customers, understand their needs and help bring their vision to life. As installation approaches, we confirm details so there are no surprises — just a smooth, stress-free experience.”
Complete Fence also utilizes virtual reality software, allowing customers to see how different fence styles will look in their own yards. Whether clients seek more privacy or a more open, see-through look, Complete Fence sales team members Jim Katalinic and Dale Phelps can use the virtual reality software to show how a space will look like with different fence styles.
The staff prioritizes communication throughout the process. As installation progresses, superintendents Brad Gooding and Adrian Tilapa ensure there are no surprises and work with clients for a smooth, stress-free experience.
The commercial division specializes in perimeter security systems for energy infrastructure, data centers, corporate offices, retail locations, manufacturing facilities and more. With an experienced team and an on-site fabrication shop, Complete Fence is able to provide custom fencing and railing solutions for even the most complex projects.
Giving back is another cornerstone of the business. Complete Fence regularly supports the community through food drives, coat drives and free fence giveaways, as well as other local charities and causes. The staff takes pride in giving back and considers that an important part of their company identity.
Most recently, Complete Fence donated to the Batavia Interfaith Food Pantry and Clothes Closet. Last October, the company hosted a Pink Hair Day, welcoming community members to receive pink hair extensions while raising funds for breast cancer awareness.
Complete Fence is a proud member of the Batavia Chamber of Commerce as well as the American Fence Association, with which they have collaborated on Habitat for Humanity projects
Operating by its unshakeable core values, Complete Fence and its owner, Kevin Hohe, is dedicated to giving good people good jobs and meaningful opportunities.
“Our goal is simple,” Fioretto says. “To give every customer a five-star experience, every time. No matter the project, we stand by our motto: Your Vision. Our Mission. Zero Compromises.”
ARMBRUST PLUMBING & HEATING SOLUTIONS
381 S. Main Place
Carol Stream, IL 60188
630-425-6002
www.trustinarmbrust.com
The name on the side of a service van matters. For some, it’s just a brand. But for the Armbrust family, it is a 108-year-old promise. When a technician pulls into your driveway, they aren’t just representing a company; they are carrying the reputation of five generations of fathers, mothers, sons and daughters who have called this community home since 1918.
To the Armbrusts, family-owned and operated isn’t just a business model — it’s a philosophy of care. Your home is your sanctuary, and when you’re facing a freezing winter night or a
sweltering summer afternoon, their singular goal is to use their century of expertise to make your family comfortable again. They believe in treating every customer’s home with the same meticulous respect and care they would give their own.
Armbrust’s people-first approach has been a consistent part of its operations for decades. General Manager Vance Wise is now in his 35th year with the company, having started in 1991. During that time, he has seen substantial growth in the company and broaden its services to
also include heating, air conditioning and more.
Over the past several decades, the service industry has experienced significant change. One thing, however, has never changed: Armbrust has remained family owned. What motivates the family business most is the trust carried in the Armbrust family name. It is not just a business name — it is their name.
Now under Pat Armbrust’s leadership, the company continues to thrive by putting people before profits.
"All the owners have been spectacular," Wise said. "Pat has a fire in his belly. He's focused on the culture of his employees and loves his customers. He works 60 hours a week. He's super committed to the company."
This commitment ensures that when a customer picks up the phone and dials 630-547-7500, they aren't met with high-pressure sales, but with empathy. Armbrust’s trained, experienced and empathetic
associates listen carefully to each situation and provide clear options, helping customers choose solutions that work best for their circumstances, whether a project is large or small.
Whether it’s a modern high-efficiency HVAC system or a complex plumbing repair, the Armbrust team brings 108 years of "know-how" to every job:
n Plumbing: Water heaters, garbage disposals, backflow prevention, and sump pumps.
n Heating and cooling: Furnaces, air conditioners, indoor air quality, and boilers.
n Specialty Services: Maintenance programs, power solutions, and standby generators.
At the end of the day, being familyowned and operated means that the Armbrusts are accountable to their name and their neighbors. You can count on Armbrust to deliver plumbing, heating and cooling installations and repairs you can rely on, just as customers have for the past 108 years.
By Jonathan Bilyk
As a home builder, John Hall Jr. knows everyone’s idea of the “perfect garage” can vary widely.
But when Hall builds his own new garage in the coming months, he said his unit will almost certainly include enough space for his indoor golf simulator, allowing him to practice his golf game anytime, while his vehicles remain snug nearby, safely out of the elements.
“People are definitely treating their garages differently these days,” said Hall, owner of Hall Custom Homes in St. Charles. “They want to have their garage not feel so much like a garage, even when the cars are parked in there.”
Throughout the U.S., a growing number of homeowners have turned their attention to what Hall and others in the home improvement and design business consider to be an often-neglected space: the garage.
According to a survey commissioned by tool maker Stanley Black & Decker in 2024, more than three-quarters of homeowners believe their garage could become “the most productive room in their house.”
In reporting the results, the company said the survey shows homeowners no longer see garages as merely a “place just to store cars and tools,” but now view the ubiquitous spaces — particularly
common in suburban environments — as “a hub of productivity, creativity and even a source of income for some homeowners.”
According to the survey, nearly 80% of homeowners said they intend to at least declutter and organize their garage.
But the survey said a growing number of homeowners are not stopping there, with nearly 40% now using their garages as a gym or physical fitness space and 28% saying they put their garages to work to aid them in “side hustles,” or other self-employment or entrepreneurial ventures.
Those trends are not losing steam, said Hall and Jaime Sabado, a sales manager
for Complete Closet Design.
Based in Naperville, Complete Closet Design provides organizational and improvement strategies and solutions for many home spaces, including garages, for homeowners in the Fox Valley area and beyond.
Sabado said the drive to renovate garages for alternative uses began gaining popularity around 2020-2021, amid the COVID pandemic, as people’s attention turned to “maximizing their space” at home.
“Design in garage spaces have really become much more elevated,” said Sabado. “It’s become an extension of their homes.”
She noted home fitness centers have consistently ranked among the most common alternative concepts for garage spaces, as homeowners seek private gym and training areas that are available whenever they like or need.
Sabado said homeowners are also seeking to carve out portions of their garages to serve as better and larger “mud rooms.”
“Here in this part of the country, we know that for most of the year, the weather is going to throw rain at us, mud, snow, slush,” said Sabado. “We have clients who are saying, ‘You know, we want to make sure we have space to dump those dirty and wet boots or coats, or drop the muddy, smelly sports equipment or whatever, before we get in the house.’”
Still other homeowners, she said, are opting to convert their garages into three-seasons-room-style hybrid entertainment spaces, often complete
with big-screen televisions and outdoor-style bars.
“We have four seasons here, so in a lot of ways, it makes more sense to put that entertaining space in the garage, instead of just out in your backyard,” Sabado said — laughing as she agreed the concept “could be more of a Midwestern thing, for sure.”
Many homeowners are also designing their garages to serve as gleaming workshops or to support favorite hobbies and pastimes, whether woodworking, automotive repair and restoration, or virtually maintaining their golf swing with indoor golf simulators.
Hall noted such garage projects are no longer just renovation ideas, but are increasingly becoming in-demand features for custom-built homes in the region.
“People are designing their garages for these purposes before they ever move in,” said Hall. “They want the
garage to reflect them and their interests.”
He said customers are now spending more time than in the past ensuring garages are properly lit and supplied with electricity in the right spaces to support projects and recreation, while also insulating, heating and cooling the space and installing premium flooring and coating options.
Sabado said successful projects are built around proper design and quality products. She said her company installs customizable Swisstrax flooring and full organizational systems with adjustable slat walls, work benches, overhead storage and cabinets.
“We provide the sleek cabinetry, flooring, lighting and other technology and solutions to elevate those spaces,” said Sabado. “We transform the garage into a space you want to be and bring your home outside, too.”
By Grace Rosati | Photos by Pix by Painter
Buying your first home can feel like a daunting task, but with the help of realtors like Laura Basil, it doesn’t have to be.
Basil is not new to real estate; in fact, she grew up with it. She has worked in property management for 20 years, and now that she works as a real estate agent for Geneva’s Keller Williams Inspire branch, she is always sharing her tips for buying a home.
When first beginning your search, money is king. A mortgage loan originator can help guide you through the process of what you can afford and help you explore different loan options. Lucky for her clients, Basil is also a licensed mortgage loan originator.
Choosing a loan all depends on the buyer. “Once you're pre-approved and understand your budget,
there's different types of loans that we can talk about,” Basil said. “There's conventional loans, FHA loans, or, if somebody's been in the military, they may be qualified for VA loans. All of these have
different advantages depending on the consumer situation.”
Next, it’s time to prioritize your needs and wants. Research the area you’d like to be in. Is there a school system you’d like your kids to grow up in? How many rooms are you looking for? Maybe you want to live on a pond, or you have a certain style in mind.
“If you haven't thought about it, first think about what type of home you want, and then it’s all location, location, location,” Basil said. As one of the fastest-growing counties in Illinois, Kane County is a great location to settle down and enjoy the suburbs while also being close to the big city.
Depending on what you want, your realtor can narrow down options for you to visit. Then, when
you make your decision and set the deal, the home goes under contract.
During this time, Basil strongly recommends working closely with your building inspector. “Once a house is purchased, there's a building inspection. If anything large is found in this inspection, even after the home purchase, everything can be renegotiated.” Walking around with your building inspector is also the best way to understand how to maintain the home, as they can guide you through it. Finally, following a five-day attorney period, the deal will close and you’ll be able to move in.
Basil also encourages people to take the leap of faith into homebuying. “There's a lot of renters out there that don’t know they actually qualify for a mortgage. If somebody's paying $2,500 in rent every month or more, they could very well qualify for a mortgage with very little down.”
If this sounds like you, get in touch with a mortgage loan originator or Laura Basil to learn how you could potentially become a first-time homebuyer.
Purchasing a home may feel like a huge step, but know that your realtor is here to help bridge that gap. Don’t be afraid to ask questions — and have fun with it.
This family-owned team of window and patio door installers has been serving Kane County for more than 22 years. A&D Exteriors offers an extensive range of replacement windows, including double hung, casement, vinyl, slider and picture. www.andexteriors.com
Whether you need extra storage, a workshop, or a safe place to park, consider Absolute Garage Builders for a durable garage built to meet your needs and local code requirements. Absolute manages the entire process, including permits and inspections, so you don’t have to worry about paperwork or red tape. www.absolutegaragebuilders.com
Offering a wide range of remodeling services, from kitchen and bathroom renovations to full home makeovers, Geneva-based Crisco has been serving the Kane County area for two decades. www.criscobasementremodeling.com
This family-owned and operated company prides itself on the possibility that it’s the only contractor you’ll ever need! This Sugar Grove company specializes in home renovation, home restoration and home remodeling. www.fourseasonscontractinginc.com
Whether it’s rodents, ants, bedbugs, bees, cockroaches or termites, this family-owned company will give you security and peace of mind by safely preventing and eliminating them from your home. www.foxvalleypestcontrol.com
Owner Lenny Kammes works with Len Sr., Melissa and Keri, his dad, wife and sister, respectively. They specialize in cabinet restoration in painted finishes, converting your stained cabinets into a sleek painted look by utilizing a detailed refinishing process. www.kammescolorworks.com
Based out of St. Charles, this boutique specializes in one-on-one kitchen and bath designs that fit the lifestyle of the homeowner. Whether you’re looking to renovate one room or your entire home, Kane Home Cabinetry will help you get it done with style. www.kanehomecabinetry.com
These specialists design and build beautiful outdoor exteriors by upgrading windows, siding and doors. That includes fenestrations, so if you’re looking to add a window, Maple Park-based NextWave can do it. “We had a couple who wanted a good view from their master bedroom and they live in a subdivision that was built around a lake,” says Dave Gurtler, president of NextWave Exteriors. “So we cut a hole in a wall and put in a window and it looks like a resort. It came out stunning.” www.nextwaveil.com
Looking for expert drywall repair with seamless patches and superior service? The Patch Boys offer quick, high-quality drywall and plaster repair solutions for homeowners and small businesses. www.thepatchboys.com
This small painting company certainly packs a wallop to tackle all of your interior and (most) of your exterior painting needs. After 30 years of painting business experience, owner Mark Weissmann started Splash of Color Painters in 2017. www.splashofcolorpainters.com
After serving a variety of construction and IT industry clients, Tausch began focusing primarily on residential construction, specializing in interior remodels including bathroom and basement renovations. Its founder and general contractor, Tim Tausch, has a
special interest in historic preservation. In fact, he recently restored the historical windows at the Glidden House in DeKalb. www.tauschconstruction.com
This Batavia company has remodeled 843 kitchens, replaced 1,965 countertops and installed 3,425 cabinets, and these numbers likely increased since the time this was written. West DuPage Cabinets and Granite renovates, redesigns and remodels projects that come together in a beautiful way.
www.westdupagecabinetsandgranite.com
This Aurora-based company specializes in the design, construction and installation of premium quality custom furniture and cabinetry, both residential and commercial. www.woodworkrefined.com
Scavenger hunt and vendor expo brings fun to wedding plans
By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske
ut on those running shoes, charge up the phone and get ready for friendly competition with the debut of The Geneva Wedding Hunt, which brings together the fun of a scavenger hunt and the vendor connections of a bridal expo.
When Geneva resident Jessica Shockey accepted the role of coordinating the business community’s annual wedding expo, she decided to give it a different spin and build off the success of her business, Adventures in Scavenger Hunting.
“I’m trying to reinvent the wedding expo,” Shockey explained. “I’m redesigning it to more of a scavenger hunt and make it more fun.”
Attendees can register for the Sunday, March 15 event, which starts with a small scavenger hunt along State Street in downtown Geneva before returning to Riverside Receptions, the host site, where Shockey has invited 30 wedding vendors to participate. Shockey said she has worked to bring in professionals who work in Geneva and the Tri-City area and are on par with the latest wedding trends, including mobile bartending, DJ services, photographers and even companies serving latenight wedding noshes.
Shockey will also have a booth for her second business, a mobile cotton candy cart that has quickly become a fun addition to weddings. She said she recently attended a wedding celebrating a blended family, where she spun pink and blue cotton candy together as a symbol of the couple uniting their children and families.
Shockey launched Adventures in Scavenger Hunting 10 years ago and has watched it blossom and expand beyond Geneva to include Wheaton, Naperville, St. Charles and even Yorktown Mall. She has served events ranging from youth birthdays to corporate gatherings. For Shockey, the fun is collaborating with the business community to design a game that is entertaining for participants while introducing them to shops and restaurants
they want to return to after the game concludes.
“I love to partner with the small businesses. It is amazing to see the collaboration we can have with them,” Shockey said.
That collaborative spirit is also the plan for The Geneva Wedding Hunt, with participants visiting 10 nearby businesses in downtown Geneva before joining the vendor expo. Shockey said she is excited to change up the former Geneva Wedding Walk.
The Geneva Wedding Hunt will not have participants racing to be the first to complete tasks, but it keeps the fun of searching for items and locations.
Shockey said she hopes attendees will discover new businesses they want to return to and perhaps spend the day in town, staying for drinks and dinner at nearby locations or enjoying brunch before the event begins.
Tickets for The Geneva Wedding Hunt are $25 for an individual plus one guest, with $5 for each additional ticket. Tickets are available on Eventbrite at thegenevaweddinghunt.eventbrite.com.
Sponsors for the event include Riverside Receptions, Music by Design, Inluro, Zazú Salon in Geneva, Adventures in Scavenger Hunting, The Serendipity Collective and Travel A Latte.
1 to 4 p.m.
Sunday, March 15
Scan QR code at left for tickets
s winter gives way to spring, many of us feel inspired to clean, organize and start fresh. But spring cleaning does not have to stop at our homes. This seasonal transition is also an ideal time to reset your body and skin after the colder months.
Winter can be tough on overall wellness. Cold weather, dry air and less sunlight often leave muscles tight, energy levels low and skin dehydrated. A simple wellness reset can help you feel renewed and ready for the season ahead.
n THE BODY AFTER WINTER
During winter, people tend to be less active and spend more time indoors. This can lead to stiffness and tension, especially in the neck, shoulders and lower back. Massage therapy helps increase circulation, relieve muscle tightness and encourage relaxation. Improved circulation can also support energy levels and recovery.
Massage also supports mental wellness. The calming effect of therapeutic touch can help reduce stress and promote better sleep, both of which many people need after a busy winter season.
n THE SKIN AFTER WINTER
Winter conditions often leave skin feeling dry, sensitive and dull. Cold outdoor air and indoor heating both strip moisture
from the skin. Spring is a great time to focus on hydration and gentle exfoliation to remove the buildup of dry skin.
Professional facial treatments can help cleanse, exfoliate and restore moisture while improving overall tone and texture. Healthy skin is more than cosmetic. It is part of the body’s natural protection and overall wellness.
n A SEASON FOR RENEWAL
Spring naturally represents renewal and fresh starts. It is a good time to build small self-care habits like drinking more water, moving your body regularly and protecting your skin from sun exposure.
Living in a community like the Fox Valley, we are lucky to truly experience the
seasons. As the town comes alive with people strolling downtown, enjoying the river and gathering for local events, it is a reminder that wellness is part of enjoying where we live. Feeling your best helps you stay active and present for those everyday moments that make community life special.
Wellness does not need to be complicated. Often, it starts with listening to your body. Feeling tight, fatigued or run-down can be signs that your body needs recovery. Dry or dull skin may be asking for nourishment.
As the seasons change, consider giving yourself permission to reset. Just as nature shifts into spring, we can also take steps to feel refreshed and revitalized. A new season is a simple reminder to care for yourself inside and out.
Hair coloring for pets has evolved from a niche grooming trend into a form of artistic expression. When practiced responsibly, creative coloring transforms pets into living canvases while prioritizing their comfort, health and emotional well-being. For groomers and artists alike, the work sits at the intersection of technical skill, animal behavior knowledge and aesthetic vision. The foundation of this art form is safety. Only dyes specifically formulated for animals should be used — typically vegetable-based, non-toxic and free from harsh chemicals such as ammonia or peroxide. Professional-grade products made for pets are designed to sit on the coat rather than penetrate the hair shaft, minimizing irritation and allowing color to fade gradually. Patch testing, careful application and adherence to manufacturer guidelines are components of ethical practice.
Equally important is the pet’s temperament. Not every pet is a candidate for creative dyeing. Skilled professionals are prepared to stop if a pet shows signs of anxiety. Artistry should never override welfare.
Dyes work best on lighter colored dogs. Different fur types affect the outcome and potency of the product. Wiry coats need a longer set time and sometimes do not get as bright the first time and tend to wash out quicker than fluffy coats.
Not all coloring products can be used on just any pet. For example, with the OPAWZ Pet Dye product lines:
• Coloring shampoo: For use on guinea pigs, dogs, cats, rabbits, horses
• Blow pens & paint pens: For use on dogs, cats, rabbits, horses
• Semi permanent: For use on dogs, cats, rabbits, horses
• Permanent: For use on dogs and horses
Lightening the pet's naturally dark hair to prep for dye is only for dogs and horses.
From a creative standpoint, the possibilities are expansive. Many stylists specialize in subtle enhancements — accented ears, colored tails, toes/
feet, mohawk, stencil artwork, adding a splash of favorite sports team colors, or breed-specific pattern highlighting — while others produce elaborate themed designs inspired by holidays, pop culture or nature. Competitions around the world now showcase intricate work that blends grooming structure with color theory.
Professionals should educate pet guardians about the process, maintenance and temporary nature of the color.
Critics sometimes question whether dyeing is done for human enjoyment rather than the animal’s benefit. This concern underscores the importance of ethical intention. When performed with gentle handling, appropriate products and respect for the pet’s limits, the experience is no more intrusive than traditional grooming — and for many well-socialized pets, it becomes another form of attention.
Pet dyeing as artwork challenges the industry to balance creativity with compassion. At its best, it celebrates individuality, showcases professional expertise and elevates grooming into a respected artistic craft — all while keeping the animal’s welfare firmly at the center.
One of these times, give it a try!
Batavia’s new wine walk celebrates the arrival of spring
By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske
ime to sip, savor, shop and stroll through downtown Batavia during the Step Into Spring: Wine Walk.
The new event launches Saturday, March 21, from 1 to 5 p.m., offering participants the opportunity to enjoy a sip of wine at 14 participating businesses in downtown Batavia, said Kristen Desler, assistant director of Batavia Main Street.
Desler said the idea for the event grew out of interest from the local business community following the success of similar events in other communities. Desler and the team at Batavia Main Street worked with the city and other business organizations to design the wine walk.
“We started working on this a couple years back. This is really an event that our business community wanted,” Desler said.
Sponsorships have already sold out, Desler said, as has registration for the 14 locations serving as wine walk stops.
“Businesses have really stepped up,” Desler said.
Included in the $39 registration fee, each participant receives a commemorative wine glass on a lanyard. Each location will offer a 1-ounce wine pour, with a choice of red or white wine. Many retailers will offer small snacks, and all participants will receive a complimentary bag of popcorn from Kernel Dan, a Batavia Farmers Market participant.
The new event will also feature some of the most recent additions to downtown Batavia, including Rosewood Farm & Market and A Rooted Home.
Tickets are on sale at www.downtownbatavia.com.
While this is a first-time event, Desler said the business community is excited and hopeful for a strong turnout.
“In some of the other communities this event has typically sold out,” Desler said.
Working in collaboration with downtown
businesses, the team has crafted an afternoon that invites people to stroll through shopping areas while enjoying new spring collections.
“Our retailers could really use a boost in March and we’re all itching to get out of the house and enjoy walking around town,” Desler said. “This will be a bright and fun event with floral them and making everyone feel ready for spring.”
There will be a map to guide participants through the wine stops, along with a spring-inspired photo booth located along the route for selfies.
Presenting sponsors include K. Hollis Jewelers, Boutique & Wine Bar and Ignite Medical Resort Batavia, along with Comfort Care Heating & Air Conditioning, the lanyard sponsor, for helping bring the new event to downtown Batavia.
A vibrant afternoon of shopping, sipping and socializing!
When: Saturday, March 21 from 1-5 p.m.
Where: Throughout Downtown Batavia
Cost: $39 per ticket
To buy tickets, visit www.downtownbatavia. com/product/step-into-spring-wine-walk
MARCH 14-17
Tender corned beef and cabbage served with steamed carrots, buttered parsley red potatoes and Irish soda bread Your choice of soup or salad
Margarita with Mido
Jameson, ginger beer & lime EMERALS
As kids get older, family plans can have more twists & turns
In reality, it only costs about 10 minutes. Maybe a bit more, maybe less.
But at the time, it feels way more significant than it may ultimately turn out to be. And it could ultimately ruin your plans, depending on where and when it happens.
And it definitely feels like you should have been paying more attention to where you were.
Anyone who has ever driven an interstate highway has experienced the dreaded moment at least once. If you haven't yet: Just keep driving. It's coming, I promise.
You're scooting along down the interstate, maybe digging the tunes, an engaging podcast or an engrossing audiobook, while simultaneously noshing on some crunchy goodies and ticking down the minutes until arrival. If you're a true Midwestern dad like me, you may even be feeling super proud of your ability to shave off a significant amount of time from a journey, the length of which
we are confident would leave most denizens of the coastlands a puddle of anxiety and running for the nearest airport.
But then, the GPS (or your navigator, perhaps your spouse or someone else perched in the front passenger seat) calls out to you that it is time to exit. Or maybe, if you're flying solo, you can't blame anyone else.
Either way, however, you are left with that sinking feeling of watching that important exit fly away in the rearview mirror, forcing you to recompute your route and calculating just how much time you may have lost.
This year, as ever, once the weather clears, my crew and I will be hitting the road for our annual road trips, galavanting across the country in pursuit of family fun and adventure.
The formula will be much the same as in the past: Dad, seated (mostly) in the driver's seat, cutting down the ETA. Mom, co-captaining the trip, in charge of making sure Dad stays awake and on course.
The kiddos, in the back seat, handling their dual tasks: Handing out the snacks and drinks, while trying to (hopefully) keep their opinions and their hands to themselves and in their own zone until we arrive.
But this year, a new variable has been introduced. Perhaps it might be best to think of it as a navigation complication which, like that aforementioned proverbial missed highway exit, we didn't see coming:
A summer job.
Perhaps that's the wrong term. The job, to be clear, started long before the arrival of even the first warm spring day. And the plan is for the employment to continue for some time after the first leaves fall.
But no matter how you describe it, this summer, for the first time, our vacation plans must account for a teenager's ability to take time off.
In some ways, it feels rather ironic. For the last few decades, my bride and I have spent an inordinate amount of time and effort pursuing career options which would allow us to travel as we like, while still having a full-time, salaried job that pays the bills awaiting our return.
The desire was inspired by conversations with older couples years ago. Much like the evergreen Facebook meme, these couples told us unanimously: Don't wait until you retire to travel.
In fact, they said, be certain to travel with your kids, as much as possible – preferably before they become adults and perhaps have kids of their own.
The reasons were two-fold. For one, they said, the longer you wait, the more likely it is your body and demands of life will conspire to limit your ability to mosey off to the places and experiences you desire.
And two, once the kids pull into adulthood, their schedules suddenly matter as much as your own.
So for the past 18 years or so, we have wheeled and dealed to amass as much PTO as possible, and made sure to use as much of it as possible away from home, hopefully including a trip somewhere new along the way.
The planning process for those annual sojourns typically would begin in earnest shortly after Thanksgiving the year before, or – at worst – Christmas. And this year's trip-planning was no different, as we pieced together what we hoped would be an epic trip to visit the West Coast.
But then the monkey wrench landed in the gears with the words: "So, I got a job."
Now, don't misunderstand. We are immensely proud of the kid. And we know she will be much better for the experience.
But at the same time, the announcement and ensuing conversations between her and her boss led to three inescapable conclusions:
One, as parents who endeavor to model responsible behavior to our young ones, we know our summer vacation plans will require substantial route adjustments.
Two, while we knew this day was coming, it still felt as if we should have been paying more attention and should have done more to account for the time.
And three: This is likely just the latest of many more life recomputations to come, as the kid's childhood fades off into the distance in the rearview mirror.
n Jonathan Bilyk writes about the triumphs and travails of being a modernday dad who legitimately enjoys time with his family, while tolerating a dog that seems to adore him. He also doesn’t really like the moniker “Superdad” because it makes it sound like he wants to wear his undergarments on the outside of his pants. (Also,the cape remains on back order.)
By Melissa Rubalcaba
When Geneva resident Karen Laukaitis retired from her role as an elementary school teacher, she wasn’t quite ready to give up her classroom. She still wanted the joy of helping young ones discover the magic of sounds, shapes and colors — and she found it as an instructor for the St. Charles Park District’s Early Childhood Classes.
Laukaitis found a new classroom inside Pottawatomie Community Center as part of the Early Childhood Education Instruction where instructors provide a number of enrichment classes for children from ages 1 to 6 years.
“I still love kids, I still love the work and I still wanted to be in education,” she said. “Everyone made me feel so welcome.”
Cooking, creating art and of course songs and crafts are fun ways to
introduce important learning concepts to young children and the St. Charles Park District strives to find instructors who make learning exciting and fun.
On a cold winter day, instructor Stephanie McCubbin was helping the 3-year-olds learn how to make a cozy soup in a class that included songs and a story while the soup simmered. As a certified registered dietician, McCubbin said said she loves being able to use her professional experience to help children find joy trying new foods, and being helpful in the kitchen.
“It’s so exciting because children are more likely to eat food they’ve made and their friends are trying new foods too,” McCubbin said.
Her own children were attending the St. Charles Park District preschool when she first started helping in the classroom. While it can get a little messy working with children ages 3
to 6 years, McCubbin said at this age, cooking is a great way to introduce new foods, and ask questions like a scientist, such as which cupcakes will look and taste better, one made with eggs or one made with applesauce.
“Sharing a love of food and cooking food makes everyone happy,” McCubbin said.
Getting messy is probably the best part of class for instructor Brandon Schaden, who teaches Paint & Play, for children ages 2 to 3 years. The class invites toddlers with an adult to get creative while incorporating different textures and materials, like dipping an ice cube in paint, or using a cotton ball to create a water color.
“Some parents are afraid of messes, and even I had to teach myself it’s OK to be messy. Messes will happen and our children need it for their sensory skills and creativity,” Schaden said.
While many preschool instructors are women, the young father relishes his opportunity to be a good male role model for his young students while encouraging their creativity.
“It’s so important our young people see men are capable of caring for young children and men have great qualities too to be creative and fun and sensitive and silly and nurturing,” Schaden said.
He’s also the instructor for Backyard Adventure Party and loves coordinating park playdates to encourage families to spend more time outdoors.
Laukaitis is the instructor for the Giggles & Wiggles class for children ages 1 to 2 years, the class Parent/Tot Lunch Bunch and the Almost 2: Look What I can Do class for 1- to 2-year-olds. Having classes with parents and toddlers, Laukaitis loves engaging the adults and young ones in songs, activities and play.
Even though she and her husband were
Sun • March 22 • 12:15-2pm
Ages 3-12 • Norris Recreation Center
$10/person Hunt for Easter eggs inthe shallow end of the pool.
Wed • March 25 • 5:30-6:15pm
Thu • March 26 • 11:45am-12:30pm
Ages 8 & under (w/adult) • Pottawatomie Community Center
$18/person Decorate two freshly baked cupcakes, visit the craft station & get a selfie wit the Easter Bunny.
Sat • March 28 • 10am
Ages 9 & under • Pottawatomie Park
FREE! Arrive at least 15 minutes early and bring your own baskets. Please limit your child to 10 eggs.
Fri • April 3 • 6-7:45pm
teachers, Laukaitis said she remembers all the questions she had a young mom navigating those early school years for her own child. In her role working in parent and tot classes, she relishes the opportunity to help guide families while setting a foundation for the children’s understanding of preschool where there is a structure, directions and a chance to make friends too.
As a former reading instructor, one of her favorite parts of class is the opportunity to read one-to-one with each child. Whether it’s a board book with pictures or a storybook, Laukaitis said reading is so important for children and such a great activity for parents and children.
“I tell parents, when you’re reading with your child, use your finger in a hopping motion, hopping word to word. This is emerging literacy,” Laukaitis said. “You’re teaching your child and you don’t even realize it.”
Sat • March 28 • 2-3pm
All Ages • River Bend Community Park
$5/dog Dogs must be kept on a nonretractable leash (max 6’),have current vaccines and visibly wear tags.
All Ages • Hickory Knolls Discovery Center
$12/person Bring your flashlight and sense of adventure! For more info & to register:
By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske
From treasure hunters to set designers, shoppers are discovering the décor and furnishings at the newest location of Warehouse 55 in Batavia.
In late fall 2025, business partners Mark Shouldeen and Mindy Schloss launched the Batavia location of their successful vintage home décor collection. Located at 160 First St. in downtown Batavia, Shouldeen said the community has warmly welcomed the new business.
The business first opened in Aurora in 2019, followed by a Chicago location in 2021. While the partners enjoyed their home in Aurora, Shouldeen said they needed more space and ideally a single-floor location to make it easier for shoppers to browse the curated treasures.
Inside the space, shoppers will find an array of items presented by vendors who travel across the globe in search of wares.
Shouldeen said they strive for 85% of the inventory to remain in the vintage category, defined as at least 20 years old, and that he especially loves unique, one-of-akind finds.
“There’s such a mix and variety among vendors,” Shouldeen said. “You can find English style, Farm House, and just a big mix.”
The vendors constantly bring in new inventory, keeping the space fresh and encouraging customers to stop in often to see what is new, Shouldeen said.
“Our vendors go all over, from flea markets to auctions finding items,” Shouldeen said. “A few even go to Europe and bring back pieces.”
Among the most sought-after items are chandeliers, Shouldeen said. Shoppers can also find art,
accessories, furniture and even a small selection of clothing. He said a set designer working in Chicago has visited the shop to scoop up items.
There are also artisan pieces. Shouldeen said when he launched the business, it provided an opportunity to sell his own unique creations while showcasing other artists and vintage collectors he worked with in the area. As the business has grown, he said he has had less time to create but hopes to return to it, as clients continue to seek out his designs. Schloss previously operated The Vintage Nest in Glenview and now has her inventory showcased in the Batavia and Chicago locations.
Among the shop’s annual calendar of specials and events, Shouldeen said the Christmas
offerings have become so popular that vendors are invited to showcase holiday items beginning in early October. Customers will fly in from both coasts to shop the Christmas wares, and Shouldeen said he enjoys hearing stories from customers who find items that evoke childhood memories.
“We’re known for Christmas,” Shouldeen said. “We’re heavy with vintage Christmas.”
Social media and the shop’s website are the best ways to see what is new in the store, Shouldeen said, and the entire inventory is computerized, which helps staff search for a particular item, designer or artist.
Still, the best way to discover what is new is by stopping in to wander, browse and search.
daily 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
By Melissa Rubalcaba Riske
It started with a simple idea from a pair of friends living in Geneva: create a way to bring women together to dine, connect and enjoy a little shopping, too. Friends Terry Emma and Dawn Vogelsberg were young moms who wanted to have some fun while drawing others to their hometown for shopping and dining.
Their vision became JULIETS Weekend, launched in the early 2000s. After a hiatus, the well-loved program is making a return this spring, April 10-12, 2026, in downtown Geneva.
The name JULIETS stands for Just Us Ladies Into Eating Together and Shopping. Emma recalled how she and Vogelsberg brainstormed ideas to bring people together when they devised the first JULIETS programs in the early 2000s.
“It started as JULIETS meeting once a month for lunch,” Emma explained. “It was for all women and the rules were no discussing politics, no selling anything. It was strictly a place to sit and listen and talk and get to know others.”
As moms with young children at the time, they were looking for a way to connect with other women while enjoying a child-free meal. From lunches out, they saw an opportunity to expand the concept into an entire weekend, with help from village leadership and local business owners.
“Some women would come and spend the weekend
in Geneva, some would come for a part of the weekend,” Emma said.
For the weekend event, restaurants and retailers joined in the fun, offering specials and discounts. Emma said the aim was to introduce visitors to places they may not have visited before in downtown Geneva.
For Emma, Geneva isn’t just an address; it’s her hometown, where she was raised and where she returned to raise her family.
“My heart is in Geneva. I want to see it succeed,” Emma said.
Emma’s love for Geneva remains strong in her current role as director of the Geneva History Museum.
For the 2026 JULIETS Weekend, a committee that includes downtown Geneva retailers, the restaurant alliance and community leaders is collaborating on plans. The group is creating an itinerary and inviting local businesses to participate with special offers, events and discounts.
Kelly Vass, general manager at State Street Jewelry in Geneva, is among the committee members bringing JULIETS Weekend back.
“Geneva is a destination for ladies to get together and go shopping, dining,” Vass said.
For Vass, the value goes beyond discounts and deals and focuses on bringing women together
and celebrating the bonds of family and friendship, whether attendees are local to Kane County or staying nearby for the weekend.
“I want people to enjoy Geneva the way I do,” Vass said.
Tickets for JULIETS Weekend 2026 will be available starting Feb. 20. Registration is $50 per person and includes a swag bag and a full list of participating businesses. Swag bags will be available for pickup at the Geneva History Museum, which will be the beneficiary of proceeds from JULIETS Weekend.
Emma said previous JULIETS events supported local organizations, and she is grateful the museum— which relies entirely on private donations—was selected.
The Geneva History Museum will also participate in the weekend by offering JULIETS attendees a weekend museum membership, free admission and a 10% discount in the museum shop. Visitors will have the opportunity to see the museum’s 2026 exhibit, “Through the Eyes of Geneva: A Local Perspective on 250 Years of American History.”
Emma explained the exhibit explores national history through a local lens, highlighting Geneva’s connections — from a Civil War jacket worn by a Geneva resident to presidential visits to the community and ties to the tragic bombing at Pearl Harbor. The exhibit tells the story through memorabilia, videos, photos and more.
Books can be enjoyed anywhere around your home, both inside and outdoors. Here are two recommendations for your March reading list, courtesy of the librarians at Geneva Public Library.
“Time of the Child” by Niall Williams
In the quiet Irish town of Faha, nothing at all happens. Stagnant even in the bustling 1960s, its people find themselves stuck in moments of regret and trauma, from the doctor still in love with his departed wife, his unmarried daughter still living at home, and even a baby found motionless on the frozen steps of their local church. Faha is not a town meant for miracles, and yet, the baby survives. “Time of the Child” is a historical fiction novel that follows gentle father and daughter Jack and Ronnie Troy, who keep to themselves in an otherwise tightly knit community. When their young neighbors bring them an orphaned baby in need of rescue, Ronnie quickly forms a deep bond with the infant girl. Knowing their deeply religious village would not allow a single woman to keep the child without scandal, Jack becomes convinced Ronnie never married because of his grief and protectiveness. Determined to preserve his daughter's happiness, Jack schemes to reunite her with an old flame. An Irish bestseller, “Time of the Child” is a stand-alone companion piece to “This is Happiness.” Its slow-paced prose richly describes a beautiful setting with an atmosphere of love and nostalgia flowing through each word. This cozy story is perfect for fans of Ann Patchett and Fredrik Backman, centering on a relatable community and the bonds they share.
– Shannon Thommes,
Adult & Teen Services Librarian
“The Correspondent” by Virginia Evans
Can you come to know someone through the letters they send and receive from family, friends, colleagues and casual acquaintances? “The Correspondent” by Virginia Evans is an epistolary novel, meaning its story unfolds entirely through letters. Sybil Van Antwerp has lived a full life: she is a mother, a grandmother and a former judicial clerk with a respectable career. She is also an avid correspondent who firmly believes in the power of written communication. Sybil, our protagonist, isn’t perfect. She has strained relationships, sometimes jumps to incorrect conclusions, and can be quick to dismiss others. Yet she remains grounded in who she is, and she isn’t afraid to take chances or make changes. “The Correspondent” offers a distinctive window into Sybil’s life and character, and because we see only her correspondence, we must draw some of the narrative connections ourselves as we explore the contours of one woman’s life. Ultimately, Sybil’s letters reveal the meaningful relationships she has built, demonstrating it’s never too late to create your own community.
– Allyson Palagi, Adult & Teen Services Coordinator
The Tri-Cities are booming with arts and artists — perhaps nowhere more vibrantly than Batavia’s Water Street Studios, which hosts events, galleries and up to 25 artists in residence. Each month, Kane County Magazine and Water Street Studios are partnering to highlight artists and their work.
Artist and Director of Exhibitions at Water Street Studios, Steve Sherrell, is continually prospecting his creativity and talent to compose his unique work. Sherrell also co-created the entirety of the Water Street Studios Artist Collective and he continues to invest his time and mentorship in the Batavia gallery to this day.
Sherrell recognizes Batavia as the artistic haven it is for creatives in the area and beyond. “Batavia supports sustained artistic practice without the pressure of spectacle or careerism,” he says. “It felt like a place where artists could work honestly, contribute meaningfully, and remain connected to everyday life.”
In his own artistic medium, Sherrell explores what he calls hybrid work - a combination of AI-assisted and digital processes with traditional painting. “This required me to rethink authorship, materiality, and intuition after decades of physical studio practice,” he says. “It pushed me intellectually and technically, but the resulting work felt like a synthesis rather than a departure— an honest continuation of questions I’ve been asking my entire career.”
Last year, Sherrell completed a collection of large-scale paintings and digitally reinterpreted variations, computer art and sculpture. “My son, Colin - who is a sculptor - and I, mounted an exhibition in October at Water Street,” he says. “It reflected our ideas about artmaking circa 2025, combining craft and skill with contemporary digital and AI influences.”
Currently, the adventurous artist is working on new work that embodies postdigital ideas through the use of traditional studio skills. “The focus is on using long-established methods—drawing, painting, and material decision-making— to engage questions shaped by digital culture,” he says. “The challenge is to put myself in the position of current motives driving contemporary culture.”
Access and exposure to art is essential for any community, and Sherrell sees it as foundational. “Art gives a community depth,” he says. “It creates spaces for reflection, empathy, and shared experience beyond utility or profit. When art is accessible, creativity becomes a common language rather than a privilege. Community spaces like Water Street Studios help keep that exchange visible, active, and human.”
For more information on the artist of the month, head to waterstreetstudios.org or the studio’s social media pages.
u Lollipop: Digital, 24x32 inches, 2025
v Thoughts on the idea of space travel: Oil on Canvas 6x7 feet. 2025
w "Let's call this that": Oil on Canvas, 30x36 inches, 2025
x Tick Tack: Oil on Canvas 30x36 inches. 2025
y Counterbalance: Digital, 2024, Size variable
Steve Sherrell's practice is rooted in a lifetime of exploration across painting, drawing and digital media. He attended the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, where he studied under Ray Yoshida and Whitney Halsted for both his BFA and MFA. "I learned early that art is not about repeating a formula but about cultivating restless curiosity, " he said. "I move fluidly between mediums, treating each as an open-ended laboratory where form, image and metaphor can emerge in unexpected ways. ... In both traditional and new media, my work seeks to unsettle habits of looking, to reframe the familiar, and to invite viewers into a dialogue of discovery."
March’s weather is often as unpredictable as the day-to-day movements in the markets. Although Valentine’s Day has come and gone, I’m still reminiscing about the things I love, and this includes a diversified portfolio! Here are a few reasons why.
WHO IS SMARTER THAN THE MARKET? I’ve been in the financial services industry since 1987, and over the past 39 years there has been no lack of market prognosticators claiming to have special insight as to what the hot investment tip or market segment is going to be for the new year. Over the years, it seems that those who claim to have crystal balls are correct on their market calls with less frequency than the typical weather forecaster’s 10-day prediction. (The average 10-day forecast is only accurate around 50% of the time, according to the NOAA.)
Missing on the weather is one thing. Making a big mistake with your life’s savings by going “all-in” on someone’s prediction can be disastrous.
One only needs to look at the quilt chart at right to be able to appreciate the big swings that can occur from year to year in different segments of the world’s investment markets.
Why it's beneficial to spread capital across multiple asset classes
FOMO. The “fear of missing out” often unduly influences investor behavior. When you hear someone bragging about an investment that really worked well for them, it is natural to want a similar result and to even chase that particular investment to see if you can be part of that success. This can lead to the classic scenario where an investor buys at the high only to see that security flatten out before cycling downward. Not fun.
SEEKING A SMOOTHER RIDE! Many investors prefer to experience roller coaster rides at amusement parks, not in their portfolios. Our team believes that one of the benefits of having strategic diversification in your investment portfolio can be a less volatile, smoother financial journey we think you’ll love.
Interested in improving your relationship with your portfolio? Call our growing team. We are committed to helping assure your lifestyle and legacy.
Investing involves risk and you may incur a profit or loss regardless of strategy selected. Diversification and asset allocation does not ensure a profit or protect against a loss. Holding investments for the long term does not ensure a profitable outcome. Future investment performance cannot be guaranteed, and investment yields will fluctuate with market conditions. This material is intended for informational purposes only, does not constitute a recommendation, and should not be construed as investment, legal, or tax advice and is not intended to replace the advice of a qualified attorney, tax advisor, or plan provider. The information has been obtained from sources considered to be reliable, but we do not guarantee that the foregoing material is accurate or complete. Any opinions are those of Tom McCartney and not necessarily those of Raymond James. Expressions of opinion are as of this date and are subject to change without notice. Raymond James is not responsible for the content of any website or the collection or use of information regarding any website's users and/or members.
Authored by Tom McCartney, founding principal of My Advisor & Planner and a wealth manager, RJFS. Pictured left to right with his team are co-founder and wealth manager Sharon Piet, Tom, and Michael Holevas, CFA, wealth manager. Any opinions are those of My Advisor & Planner and not necessarily those of Raymond James. Every investor’s situation is unique, and you should consider your investment objectives, risks and costs before making an investment. Investing involves risk and you may incur a profit or loss regardless of strategy selected, including
and asset allocation. Securities offered through Raymond
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