Issuu

JUNE 2015

The Men’s Issue BEAR WEGENER

keeps his eyes on the sky

PAGE 40

MICHAEL OLESEN talks beer as a career

Kick off summer at the

KANE COUNTY FAIR!

PAGE 16 PLUS: art, barbecue, sports, and more - we’ve got guys who do it all!

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T-TO U C H EXPERT S O L AR

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Timeless Gifts for all of your Special Moments!

BACK TO THE BASICS

Men opt for classic grooming trends and modern services

INSIDE THE MEN’S ISSUE 12 THE ART OF FOLLOWING A DREAM Artist Joseph Gagnepain paints a life extraordinary.

16 THE PERFECT BREW Stockholm’s brewmaster Mike Olesen shares his recipe for restaurant success.

20 GETTING A KICK OUT OF HIS WORK

Restauranteur Marwan Taib means business

Derek Smith works hard, plays hard, as he builds his coaching company.

FASHION & BEAUTY 24 BACK TO THE BASICS Men opt for classic grooming trends and modern services

28 SCENT OF A MAN Fragrance evokes emotion, responds to chemistry

FAMILY IN FOCUS 30 THINGS MY FATHER TAUGHT ME Advice and anecdotes in celebration of Dad.

32 HOORAY FOR DAD! Family therapist Debbie Conley gives Dads their due, and suggests they take the reins more often.

HEALTH AND WELLNESS 35 PROSTATE CANCER Experts discuss the pros and cons of early screening.

HOME AND LIFESTYLE 40 EYES ON THE SKIES Amateur pilot Bear Wegener turns a childhood fancy into a grownup hobby.

4 | JUNE 2015 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

42 AIR TIME Alvin Cole bolsters passion for planes as part of Fox Valley Aero Club.

44 VOLCANO MULCH…DON’T DO IT Expert horticulturist Meagan Provenchar of Wasco Nursery talks trash about this suburban bad habit.

46 BATAVIA, ALIVE WITH ENERGY Planned spaces, historic places keep the Windmill City spinning.

DINING AND ENTERTAINING 49 LOCAL HOTSPOT Pal Joey’s offers neighborhood hospitality with a view to savor.

50 A CUT ABOVE Local cooks and backyard grillers turn to skilled local butchers.

OUT & ABOUT 54 CALENDAR OF EVENTS Check out a variety of local events, courtesy of our own Planit Kane website!

56 ARTIST SHOWCASE Bill Worchester of Batavia shares his acrylic piece, ‘River’.

BUSINESS AND CIVIC 59 SOCIAL LIFE St. Charles Arts Council kicked off its campaign for a Downtown Center of Arts and Education.

62 COMMUNITY COMMITMENT Julie Simpson keeps North Aurora riverfront flowing with activities. www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

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Editors Note They are the men in our lives – our fathers and sons, our husbands and brothers, our good friends and neighbors. And this month in Kane County Magazine, we celebrate these men, with features on local guys following their passions in business and pursuing their favorite pastimes in our communities. We stop in at the shop of well-known local artist Joseph Gagnepain, a familiar face around the Tri-Cities, known for his work on murals, corporate art, and sculpture of reclaimed and recycled items.

visit a trendy local barber shop to discuss men’s grooming, and hear from some friends of the magazine who share anecdotes and advice from dear old dad, in celebration of Father’s Day. These great stories are complemented by grill and barbecue tips, lineups for key summer events, and helpful information from experts in wellness, landscaping, parenting and more. Join us this month as we tell the stories of some great local guys, right here in Kane County.

We share a pint with Geneva brewmaster Mike Olesen of Stockholm’s, to find out how he was able to build his dream of brewing his own signature beers.

Thanks for reading,

And we toss the ball around with St. Charles youth sports coach Derek Smith, who took a simple love for coaching kids and built a great community business, known in more than 60 towns across the Chicago area.

Sherri Dauskurdas Editor

After hours, we chat with amateur pilot Bear Wegener and model plane devotee Alvin Cole about their beloved hobbies,

Published by Shaw Media 333 N. Randall Road, Suite 2 St. Charles, IL 60174 Phone: 630-845-5288 www.kcchronicle.com/magazine GENERAL MANAGER Jim Ringness 630-845-5228 jringness@shawmedia.com EDITOR Sherri Dauskurdas 630-427-6209 sdauskurdas@shawmedia.com DESIGNER Carol Manderfield 630-427-6253 cmanderfield@shawmedia.com MAGAZINE COORDINATOR Kelli Murray 630-427-6263 kmurray@shawmedia.com ACCOUNT MANAGERS Sandra Petti 630-313-0251 spetti@shawmedia.com

on the

COVER Take flight with Bear Wegener, amateur pilot. Page 40. Photos by Ron McKinney

6 | JUNE 2015 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

Tricia Walter 630-845-5272 twalter@shawmedia.com CORRESPONDENTS Yvonne Benson, Martha Maddi, Shonda Dudlicek, Stephanie Kohl, Allison Horne, Wendy Foster, Elizabeth Harmon, Tom Witom, Kelsey O’Connor PHOTOGRAPHERS Joe Perez, Ron McKinney, Jennifer Kaye, Maureen Schwartz, Missy Donovan, Lorae Mundt

Kane County Magazine is available by subscription for $24 a year. If you would like each month’s edition mailed to your home, send payment information and address to Kane County Magazine, 7717 S. Route 31, Crystal Lake, IL 60014 or via email at subscriptions@shawmedia.com. www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

Magic? No, simply Remodeling by McDowell

Before

Thinking of Remodeling your kitchen? Here are a few questions to consider: What bothers you most about your Kitchen? Does your Kitchen ﬁt your Family’s Lifestyle? Do you sit at a table for meals, or would an island with seating be more convenient? Can an island be added? Do you use your kitchen for entertaining? Do you have enough storage? Do you have ample workspace? Can the workspaces be rearranged to create more unobstructed countertop space? Are your appliances up to date and energy eﬃcient? Does the current lighting provide proper light for work areas, as well as create ambiance overall? The McDowell team looks forward to helping you create a design within your budget, that meets your goals for your family and home! Give us a call today!

DESIGN BUILD REMODELING for the Interior & Exterior of your Home… Kitchens Bathrooms Room Additions Siding Windows Doors Three Season Rooms Lower Levels Whole House Renovations

Call us to set a time to meet:

630-584-2255

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Email us at: McDowellinc@sbcglobal.net 521 West Main Street

Visit the Kane County

FAIR

for hot summer fun close to home

Summer’s here and that means it’s time again to take in the sights, sounds and sensations of the Kane County Fair. Five days of family fun are set for July 15 through 19, on the Kane County Fairgrounds, Randall Road and Oak Street, in St. Charles. From live concerts to exciting carnival rides, perilous bull riding to traditional agricultural programs, it’s all on tap and at the Fair.

Live music in the Miller Lite Sound Stage will include:

Kane County…have you got talent?

• WEDNESDAY, JULY 15 at 7 p.m. - 7th Heaven • THURSDAY, JULY 16 at 7 p.m. - Mike and Joe • FRIDAY, JULY 17 at 6 p.m. - Shout Out 8 p.m. - Hi Infidelity • SATURDAY, JULY 18 at 5:30 p.m. - Heartache Tonight; 8 p.m. - Hillbilly Rockstarz • SUNDAY, JULY 19 at 4 p.m. - Neverly Brothers; 7 p.m. - American English.

Talented children and adults up to age 21 from Kane County are invited to participate in the Kane County Fair’s Annual Talent Contest.

Popular grandstand events which garner an additional admission charge, include:

The contest has seen and heard vocalists, dancers, magicians, comedians, instrumentalists, ventriloquists, acrobats and even a juggler or two. The contest boasts wholesome family entertainment and parents proudly bring their young aspiring stars to participate or just to watch.

PROFESSIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP BULL RIDING $14 admission Friday, July 17 at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, July 18 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. SMASH ‘EM BASH ‘EM DEMOLITION DERBY $10 admission Sunday, July 19 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Now in its 32nd year, the contest was established by Bob Hoge, Kane County Fair board treasurer, so that local young people would have the opportunity to showcase their talents.

The first place winners of the Junior and Senior Division will also compete in the Illinois Association of Agricultural Fairs Talent Contest State Competition on January 16, 2016 in Springfield, Illinois.

The competition is open to all individuals and groups residing in Kane County. Participants must complete Other daily outdoor events include the Kane County 4-H, an Entry Form to be part of the first round preliminary the ever-popular Swifty Swine racing pigs, the Sheer process. Entry forms can be downloaded at www. Magic Show, and a petting zoo. kanecountyfair.com or can be received by calling The fair rounds out with daily carnival rides, a game-filled coordinator Larry Rossi of RPM Creative Music at 847622-9935 or email KaneCoTalent@aol.com. midway and sizzling food.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 15 AND THURSDAY, JULY 16 The Kane County Fair Midway opens at 3 to 11pm. Admission is $5, ages 3 and older. Seniors 62 and older are free; children age 2 and under free; Military with ID free admission. Carnival - $20 unlimited rides includes Kane County Fair admission, if purchased at gate.

The first round is right around the corner, held on Saturday, June 13 at St. Patrick Catholic School, 6N491 Crane Road, St. Charles. The Junior Division for participants age 14 and under will be held at 9 a.m. and the Senior Division for participants age 15 to 21 will be held at 1:30 pm. Groups are encouraged to participate. (If a group contains a mixture of ages 14 and under, along with ages 15 to 21, the group is required to enter under the Senior Division.) Local guest judges from the community will choose participants who will move forward to the final Kane County Fair Talent Contest at 7 p.m. Monday, July 13 in the Prairie Events Center building at the Kane County Fairgrounds. All are invited to attend the Kane County Fair Talent Contest. There is no admission fee.

A new daily event at the Kane County Fair is the Welde’s Big Bear Show. Third generation trainer Johnny D. Welde continues his family tradition with the educational “Big Bear Show” which stresses the importance of habitat preservation and conservation for all bear species.

Admission, Carnival and hours details:

PRELIMINARY ROUNDS START JUNE 13

FRIDAY, JULY 17 AND SATURDAY, JULY 18 The Kane County Fair Midway opens at noon to Midnight. Admission is $10 for adults; $5 for children ages 3-12; children age 2 and under free. Carnival - $20 for unlimited rides noon to 5pm. SUNDAY, JULY 19 The Kane County Fair Midway opens at noon to 10 pm. Admission is $10 for adults; $5 for children ages 3-12; children age 2 and under free. Special admission price $5 from 6 pm to closing. Carnival - $20 for unlimited rides noon to 5 pm. Carnival last blast $15 for unlimited rides from 6 pm to closing. Special ticket/carnival prices available if purchased in advance, online at www.kanecountyfair.com.

A commercial expo featuring local business and service displays is available in the air-conditioned Prairie Events Center.

The Kane County Fair is located at Randall Road and Oak Street in St. Charles. For more information and to sign up for email news, visit www.kanecountyfair.com. www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

Shaw Media file photos

The Kane County Fair is one of the oldest and longstanding fairs in the country. It is sponsored in part by local partners Presence Saint Joseph Hospital Elgin, Presence Mercy Medical Center Aurora, Euclid Beverage, Cabela’s, Golf Club of Illinois, and the Kane County Cougars.

Visit www.kanecountyfair.com for more information. KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | JUNE 2015 | 9

Three men of 4-H ELDON GOULD

GENE SCHICK

LARRY BREON

Local supporters keep rural education in play, while reaching new heights in science and technology by SHERRI DAUSKURDAS

f you grew up in the suburbs or the city, its not likely you know a whole lot about 4-H programs. Some may relate the term 4-H with children raising blue-ribbon hog, or completing a prize-winning quilt. But should you take a fresh look at 4-H, you’ll discover the programs reach far beyond traditional farming and rural life into areas of aerospace, environmental science, robotics, chemical health and more. For more than 100 years, 4-H has engaged young people in cutting-edge science learning, including areas such as animal science, food science, welding, electricity, and plant/crop science. More recent project areas include aerospace, robotics, geospatial technologies, computer science, and multimedia. “In my day, a lot of the area was agriculturallybased and over the years it has changed,” says Larry Breon, Kane County Fair president and a childhood member of 4-H. “Agricultural has

been pushed west, and commercial and service businesses have entered the area. But 4-H flows with the community around it.”

Programs like ornamental horticulture, “I now have grand children showing at the fair,” photography, rocketry have grown in recent Gould shares. “In fact I think there are only about years, he says. “Everything has come up to date.” five years in the last 60 that myself, a sibling or one of our children or grandchildren have not That’s not to say the basic values of the 4-H shown at the Kane County Fair.” program have changed. A core belief of 4-H is health, as evidenced by the four H’s in the 4-H clover: Head, Heart, Hands, and Health. As such, 4-H has become a national leader in healthrelated educational issues including chemical health, mental and emotional health, foods and nutrition, physical health and safety. Kane County Fair director Gene Schick thinks the message remains an important one. “Most of us know what Little League is, or what the Boy and Girl Scouts are all about, but not many know about 4-H,” he says. “Yet all these people rely on agriculture to eat and home economics for food preparations, clothing for wearables. These are all things you can learn in 4-H. And you can also learn to make a rocket.” Eldon Gould, fair vice president, is a 4-H “lifer.” He has been involved in the organization for 60 years, growing up in the club, and serving 14 years as the leader of the local chapter with his wife Sandy, and built a career in the farming business. His family owns and operates Gould Farms, the 2015 Illinois Pork Producer Family of the Year. It’s a 5,500 acre crop operation as well as a 750-sow,

10 | JUNE 2015 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

farrow-to-wean swine operation. They currently produce 17,000 piglets annually for a local hog production network.

In addition to science, technology, agriculture and life skills, the 4-H program is devoted to teaching young people the values of good citizenry. Since its inception, 4-H has placed emphasis on the importance of young people being engaged and well informed. By connecting to their communities and leaders, youth understand their role in civic affairs and are able to expand their role in decision-making processes. “The fair is a great venue to come together and exhibit,” Breon says. “Public speaking, it will serve you well the rest of your life. Learn it early and develop your confidence. It’s competitive. Learn to win, learn to lose. It’s an important part of the program.” At this year’s Kane County Fair, about 1,000 local youth will participate in 4-H programs and competitions, showcasing their projects, sharing their hard work, and reaping the rewards of their commitment. In areas of public speaking, photography and STEM sciences, it’s really taken off, he adds. “The perception is that it’s all farm kids…but it’s not that way anymore,” Breon says. “The dinosaur never adapted. 4-H has.” www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

GUYS WITH COOL JOBS By ELIZABETH HARMON

The art of following a dream

JOSEPH GAGNEPAIN, ARTIST St. Charles native Joseph Gagnepain knew from the time he was a kid that that he wanted to be an artist. “It’s been my goal forever,” he says. He attended St. Charles East High School, before transferring to the Chicago Academy for the Arts. After graduation, he enrolled in the Minneapolis College of Art and Design. Though he had an ongoing interest in painting and sculpture, he began working with found objects in college, and today has a diverse portfolio including portraits in acrylics, murals, wooden signs and more. His found-object pieces transform discarded bicycle parts, toys, antique

-Continued on page 14 www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

A spoke in the community wheel

OWNER Matt Knowles

Photos byMissy Donovan

espite the number of existing bike shops in the Fox Valley, Matt Knowles of Batavia saw an opportunity to be a local, grassroots business, strategically involved in the community, committed to growing new cyclists.

He opened All Spoked Up, 3 Webster St., Batavia, in 2011 and earlier this spring expanded to a satellite location in Aurora. The shops offer a variety of bikes as well as service and repairs. “My main focus as a bike shop owner is to get people on bicycles,” says Knowles. An enthusiast, Knowles biked for cross training during college when mountain biking really was taking off. Coming from an artistic family, he customized his bike and eventually began building custom bikes for friends, and says he never was without a bike. Knowles’ business approach has three spokes: Supporting programing such as competitive bike racing for youth, which he has in his background and now enjoys with his sons and others from the area; serving the biking community as one of the original members of the Batavia Bike Commission, and as a leader in the Bikes for Batavia, a Bicycle Commission Project done in partnership with the city, Rotary, and CHIP IN. All Spoked Up has collected, repaired and given out more than 100 bikes to students and adults in need. “If we’re lucky enough we will become a place people come because they trust we will tell you the truth, not just sell you a product.” -Jodi Page

3 Webster St. • Batavia, IL • (630) 326-9625 14 W. Downer Street • Aurora, IL • 630-801-9005 www.allspokedup.com KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | JUNE 2015 | 13

-GUYS WITH COOL JOBS continued from page 13

“I grew up around here, and feel so grateful to have this career and the support of the community,” metal pieces such as hinges, garden implements and more into whimsical animals, plants and human characters. One, a colorful sculpture made from old toys, can be seen in the downtown Elgin city center, and is dubbed “Trashformer.” The father of two teenagers, Gagnepain has been a working artist with his own studio since 2000. His work consists of commissioned art for private collectors, public and commercial projects. “Art has always been my professional focus. I get calls out of the blue and whether it’s a small project like a sign or a big project like a sculpture, the planning and envisioning requires time and effort,” he says. His work can be seen in schools, parks, libraries, municipal buildings throughout the area, and in private businesses. He is the house artist for Graham’s 318 coffeehouse in Geneva, and Gagnepain also has done work for area and regional restaurants, bars, and other businesses. One of his signs marks the entrance to Historic Downtown Geneva. Recently, he added snow and ice to his list of artistic media, and has participated in snow sculpting events in Illinois, Michigan and internationally. He loves the independence of his work, and that his creative career allows him to let his hair down—literally. “I have it cut about twice a year,” he says, laughing. He also enjoys the way his art connects him to the community. “I grew up around here, and feel so grateful to have this career and the support of the community,” Gagnepain says.

14 | JUNE 2015 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

Photos byMissy Donovan

PODIATRIST Dr. Peter Tsang

r. Peter Tsang is the doctor at Prairie Path Podiatry and Spa in Geneva, offering a unique combination of medical treatment and holistic pampering. An immigrant originally from Hong Kong. He arrived in the United States in 1976 at just 10 years old. “My parents left China to escape Communism… [they] wanted better opportunities, better education for their kids, and a better life.” he added, “in pursuit of the American Dream.” Tsang took that initiative and put it to work in his own career, something he was inﬂuenced to do as a young boy. “I saw a doctor in Hong Kong. He impressed me as a doctor, as well as his specialization in feet,” he explains. “He was kind, with a gentle bedside manner, amongst so many doctors with a lack of personality and gruff manner.” Dr. Tsang says what he loves best about being a podiatrist is the success rate. “Our patients are very self-aware, compliant, ask great questions, and are motivated to get better,” he says. “Most patients will walk out pain free after a visit. Lots of foot problems can be solved without surgery. I am in a unique position to inﬂuence lifestyle change.” -Jodi Page

Photos by Jennifer Kaye

Prairie Path Podiatry & Spa 4 South Sixth Street • Geneva, IL 630.845.FEET (3338) | www.PrairiePathFeet.com

-GUYS WITH COOL JOBS continued on page 16 www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | JUNE 2015 | 15

-GUYS WITH COOL JOBS continued from page 15

An ‘aire’ of dedicated service

OWNER Photos byMissy Donovan

The Perfect Brew

MICHAEL OLESEN, BREWER AND OWNER AT STOCKHOLM’S RESTAURANT AND BREWERY Geneva native Michael Olesen had his heart set on a military career until an injury during ROTC training ended that dream. In need of new direction, the Marmion Military Academy graduate and University of Illinois student discovered it through his job as a bartender at an Urbana restaurant. “My senior year, I did a graduate-level independent study on the economics of alcohol, in terms of the nightclub and restaurant industry. I looked at the industry six ways to Sunday and determined that operating a brewery and restaurant together was the business model I wanted to pursue,” he says.

-GUYS WITH COOL JOBS continued to page 18

www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

Thomas Wangler

homas Wangler worked with his father in commercial heating and cooling and wanted to carry the professionalism and guidelines he learned to residential customers as well.

“Homeowners just were not being given the same attention, so I carved out my little place,” he says. That place is Confident Aire, 416 E. Wilson St., Batavia. Some of his professional standards include always answering the phone, being available 24/7 in case of emergencies, being on time, courteous and fair. “For my whole team, its second nature to do things a certain way,” he says. Wangler serves residential and commercial customers in heating, cooling and plumbing, can provide products such as air purifiers when needed and will go above and beyond to solve air quality issues, such as sending dust samples to a lab for testing. He is active in the Batavia Chamber of Commerce as a past president and each year gives away a furnace to a deserving family. Feeling fortunate in his business success, Wangler enjoys giving back to the community. “We are invited into so many homes and trusted,” Wangler says. “I like working with families, one example is when kids have asthma and allergies and we can help fix their air quality. It gives me a sense of job satisfaction.” -Jodi Page

630-761-9007 conﬁdentaire.com KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | JUNE 2015 | 17

“I spent years talking with other brewery owners, equipment manufacturers, suppliers …this really has been a long-time dream.” 18 | JUNE 2015 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

-Continued from page 17 An early attempt to launch a restaurant and brewery in the mid-1980s fell apart at the last minute, but Olesen remained undaunted and continued to research and network within his dream industry. “I spent years talking with other brewery owners, equipment manufacturers, suppliers, prior to opening Stockholm’s in 2002, so this really has been a long-time dream,” he says.

casks. “Non-filtering allows for a broader flavor profile, but it’s still very drinkable and food friendly,” he says.

Olesen uses a traditional brewing technique known as kask-conditioning, which allows non-filtered beer to ferment naturally in

What he loves most about his career is the experiences he has with Stockholm’s

Stockholm’s serves nine different beers on tap, including one rotating seasonal brew. Olesen calls Stockholm’s a family business, and his daughter Brittni, 22, a graduate student at Clemson University, finds herself pressed into service when she’s in town.

www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

Flip Family Hair Care OWNER

Walter Gould & Staff

lip Family Hair Care is celebrating its ﬁfth year in business, located at 500 Lark St., Geneva. Owner Walter Gould thought if he ever opened his own hair salon, it would be the ﬂip side of his personal experiences at salons, hence the salon’s name.

Gould wanted it to be family-friendly, to have good service, offer fair prices and for the salon to be a relaxing environment for customers. The salon has truly embraced the community through service oriented endeavors, he said.

Photos by Lorae Mundt

guests. “Our goal is to provide a wonderful experience, not just with our beer, but with our food too, which is cooked from scratch. It’s very rewarding to meet their desires and exceed their expectations.”

-GUYS WITH COOL JOBS continued to page 20

The salon has been committed to promoting other locally-owned businesses and charity events, and it is the salon’s community involvement that is one of the best parts of owning his own business, Gould said. As a private hair salon, the salon has the freedom to provide good service with no corporate restrictions, according to Gould. Because of that business model, the salon’s professional products are lower than other salons, he said. Gould is always looking for talented, experienced stylists to join his crew and keep the family-oriented, community atmosphere of Flip Family Hair Care continuing for years to come. -Kelli Murray

500 Lark St. • Geneva

630-232-8200

www.ﬂipfamilyhaircare.com

www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | JUNE 2015 | 19

Getting a Kick Out of His Work DEREK SMITH, PRESIDENT AND OWNER ALL STAR SPORTS INSTRUCTION, ST. CHARLES

Volunteering his time helped Derek Smith of Geneva discover his future career. “When I was 15, I helped my dad coach my younger brother’s baseball team. I had a great rapport with these nine and ten year old players, and before I knew it, I’d taken over coaching the team,” he says. A baseball player and golfer at Barrington High School, a career in coaching and sports was natural fit for Smith. He played recreational sports as a student at Southern Illinois University, and each summer, continued to coach. After graduating with a degree in psychology, Smith was back home in Barrington and considering his next move, when a chance meeting with another Barrington High School alum brought him back to his first love, coaching. He joined Sports Camps of America, which provided kids’ sports programs to area park districts, eventually became

-Continued on page 22

Restaurant Owner

Photo by Lorae Mundt

Marwan Taib

arwan Taib had an unusual entry into the restaurant business. Born in the historic city of Fes, Morocco, Taib always was captivated by the business dealings of his father, grandfather and uncles. This inspiration fueled his drive to be in business for himself. “As a child I was fortunate to travel around the world and explore different cultures which exposed me to different cuisines,” Taib says. Fast forward to Taib’s college years, where he struck up a relationship with Chicago real estate developer Khaldoun Fakhoury. “Mr. Fakhoury was like a father ﬁgure and mentor, who I shadowed,” Taib explains, “During this period I was at the center of so many deals, especially at the peak of the real estate market.” Taib spent his college years in the River North neighborhood in Chicago striking deals with the best in business and managed to put many of the successful restaurants in business in the area. His opportunity came three years after graduating from DePaul University. A building on the east end of St Charles stood vacant in what was considered an “economically distressed business zone,” Taib explains. “Everyone told me to walk away. But I knew that this could be successful as long as I could create a unique business model to draw people outside of St. Charles.” Today, that business model has become the Spotted Fox Ale House, a dining staple in the Tri-Cities.

“We offer more than just the food and TVs that most restaurant do. We are keen on the total dining experience.” As the demand for craft beer grew, he saw the potential and Spotted Fox Ale House has 30 world class beers on tap. “Spotted Fox is known for serving a quality food from a scratch kitchen for a great value. We make everything from scratch fresh and daily. “The Tri-Cities and Saint Charles are great markets for any business to ﬂourish and grow, as long as the business model is consistent and supplies the demand of the local residents,” Taib says. “We are lucky to be in this town and we are grateful for the local support, which has turned Spotted Fox Ale House into a local brand.” Taib returns the favor, by joining the locals and hosting charity event at spotted fox at no charge like Ashely Simmons fundraiser in December that raised $40 thousand to help ﬁght Multiple Sclerosis. “I believe in Karma,” Taib says. “The more I give back to the community, the more God gives back to me.”

3615 E Main St., St. Charles SpottedFoxAleHouse.com

Geneva Personal Training

“Every time I’m on the field, I feel like a kid in a candy store.” -Continued from page 20

All Star Sports Instruction, Inc. offers instruction in a variety of sports, ranging from basketball and soccer, to lacrosse and tumbling, for children ages 3 through 14, through its Juniors, Skills and League programs. More than just helping kids succeed as athletes, Smith sees his career as a chance to impart important off-field skills. “I’ve always loved competing and as I got older, I started to see there are so many life lessons in sports. It’s about learning to win and lose and how you handle yourself. I love getting that across to kids.” A father three boys and a girl, ranging in age from 12 to 20, he’s also served as a coach to his kids’ teams. “Every time I’m on the field, I feel like a kid in a candy store. I’m lucky to be able to earn a living by being outside, kicking or throwing a ball, playing sports and teaching kids lessons they’ll use all their lives. I feel blessed and that’s why this job is so cool.”

OWNER

Erick Dodendorf Photo by Lorae Mundt

rick Dodendorf is the owner of Geneva Personal Training, and he knows what it’s like to overcome challenges.

“I was always into sports but when I went to high school I was 4’7” and when I graduated I was 5’2”. Part of what helped me is that everyone always assumed I couldn’t do stuff. But I was a starter on the football team. I was on the track team. I was on the wrestling team. I was just the latest, latest bloomer. He’s 5’10” now, and as a personal trainer, he has worked with a wide range of people ages 8-92. “Every client is different and unique, finding the correct formula to help them fulfill their goals is extremely rewarding, he says. “I enjoy the ability to help individuals feel empowered with themselves , to not only safely and effectively achieve their goals but to learn and live a more healthy and holistic lifestyle.” At Geneva Personal Training, Dodendorf specializes in one on one and partner training, he explains. “There are no cookie cutter one fits all programs. All programs are developed specifically for each client.”

To achieve the best results takes personal motivation and a holistic change, he says. “What you’re doing now lays a foundation,” he says. “Part of what motivates me personally is so that I can set up the future. If you’re healthier now you’ll be healthier later.” -Yvonne Benson

630-402-0359

genevapersonaltraining@gmail.com www.genevapersonaltraining.com 1797 W. State St., Suite B • GENEVA

adno=0321981

a partner. In 2001, after the company’s owner decided to pursue a different direction and the two parted amiably, Smith launched All Star Sports, which now serves about 60 park districts throughout the Chicago area.

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | JUNE 2015 | 23

Men opt for classic grooming trends By KELSEY O’CONNOR

hen it comes to men’s grooming, what’s old is new again. Classic styles and services are making a major comeback with young men. And these modern males are paying more attention to their appearance, spending more time and money on products and services. One old-school style essential that’s undergoing a revival is the barbershop. Natalie Anderson, who owners of Beardsgaard Barbers in Batavia with her husband Tyler, says men today are gravitating toward barbershops for their precise technique and specialized skills. “In recent years a lot of people have been rediscovering the barbershop,” she says. “They’ve been going through a major resurgence in the last five years with the classic haircuts.” These retro cuts are the type of clean, sharp styles that were common in the early half of the 20th century, made popular again by shows like “Mad Men.” Anderson says her customers’ most frequent haircut request is the Executive Contour; cropped short on the sides, but long and slicked back on top. She says these styles have withstood the test of time because they’re easy to wear and always look put together. Another major men’s style trend is facial hair. Anderson says she sees more and more clients coming into the shop to care for their beards and mustaches. Beardsgaard offers both beard trims and complete beard overhauls, finished with hot lather and a straight razor. The right product is the key to pulling off the bearded look, says John Gialluisi, senior vice

-Continued on page 26 www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

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-Continued from page 25 president and creative director at Mario Tricoci Salons and Day Spas. “That’s just the difference that you notice in a modernday beard versus yesteryear’s beard,” he says. Even beyond the beard, products like pomades and pastes are becoming an essential piece of men’s styling routines. “Product really plays a huge role in men’s grooming and it has been [popular], but more today than ever,” says Gialluisi. As men continue to embrace personal grooming, they are also beginning to experiment with different styling tools. Anderson teaches her male clients how to use a hair dryer to finish off their look. “Our fathers and grandfathers would blow-dry their hair to get it to a proper style, they just wouldn’t admit it to anybody,” she says. “There’s nothing feminine or fussy about using the tools at your disposal to get your style right and make things cooperate.”

really good,” he says. Besides Anderson’s expertise, Lemere says he’s a regular at the barbershop because they go above and beyond when it comes to grooming. “Its not just a quick haircut, it’s more of an experience,” he says. “It’s kind of nice to be pampered but in a masculine way.” Besides haircuts, men are becoming more open to a new array of grooming service. Gialluisi says that a growing number of men are coloring their hair or getting massages in the salon’s spa. “The men’s grooming business has just exploded,” says Gialluisi, “Guys are taking better care of themselves, there’s no doubt about it.”

Jason Lemere is one of Anderson’s loyal customers and a blow-drying convert. He’s been going to Beardgaard since they opened for haircuts and beard maintenance. “I’ve always had a small beard, but now I’m starting to grow it out even more because Natalie can make it look

26 | JUNE 2015 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

FASHION & BEAUTY

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Fragrance evokes emotion, responds to chemistry for every guy…and gal By YVONNE BENSON

SCENT OF A

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t’s always nice to be around men who have a pleasant scent. Some guys wear the same all the time and others like to mix it up. Regardless, cologne can make a great gift for a special man in your life. Tara Simon is the senior vice president prestige merchandising and fragrance at Ulta, and she knows a lot about smelling good.

“Chemistry with each person’s body type will also have an impact on the fragrance they prefer and which works best for them,” she offered. “ULTA Beauty offers testers of every fragrance available in all of our stores. You can use the testers directly on one’s skin or on a piece of paper. This will assist the gifter or self-purchaser to determine A carefree vacation on the ocean or a hike through the right fit.” the sun-streaked forest could sure put any man Simon cautions that as the seasons change, so do in a positive mood. And that’s just what fragrance people’s preferences. companies are after. “Many people change their fragrance with the “You’ll find a lot of fragrance families overlap between men’s and women’s choices, such as woodsy, fresh and warm and spicy,” Simon explains. “Overall men’s fragrances are often less floral focused, and have more aquatic and woodsy notes in them which give them that more masculine feel.”

“Fragrance is a very emotional category, so that can really have an impact on what scent you are buying and for whom,” Simon says.

28 | JUNE 2015 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

Many scents get tied to particular people, she explains. The part of the brain that discerns smell is close to the memory center, resulting in very strong connections. Sometimes you might smell something and instantly think of a particular person or event. Additionally, colognes react differently on different people. On some folks, it’ll smell amazing and others it will be just okay.

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Things my father taught me…

In this month of June, we traditionally celebrate fatherhood, so we asked some area residents to share with our readers some advice and anecdotes from important men in their lives. Here is what they had to say: Kevin Burns

MAYOR OF GENEVA “The most salient lesson I learned from my father, affectionately called Grandpa John to all who know him, is both simple and profound; try to always be there. Growing up, my three siblings and I were involved in all sorts of extracurricular activities and, regardless of out interests, dad and mom made it their mission to attend the myriad of events to show their support. My dad was a salesman and often times his job took him to far away places but, more often then not, he would arrange his schedule so that he was present at athletic events, theatre productions, community gatherings and the like. Knowing he and my mom were “there” was always nice and, as I grew older, I more fully understood the impact of his and mom’s efforts to convey their support of me and whatever team or group I belonged to. To be “there” for my three daughters, while growing up and even now that they’re in their 20s remains a mission of mine thanks to indelible memories of my father’s presence while I was navigating my own journey of self-discovery and adulthood.

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“I feel like my father accomplished twice as much as me by the time he was half my age. He was always a father first. He always kept me focused on the big picture and the end goal. He had a way of putting life’s challenges into a perspective that put me back on my feet. Some of my favorite bits of curbstone philosophy were ‘focus on the objective’, ‘get in there and figure it out,’ ‘family comes first’ and ‘treat a woman right.’ His humor was dry and witty. I remember him coming home from a business trip and he would say ‘Son, I showed them the light’ or, ‘Sometimes the good guys win’ and ‘Sometimes you’re the bug and sometimes you’re the windshield!’ He mentored me in life and in business. As I became an adult we became best of friends. Shortly before he passed away I remember saying how proud I was of him and how grateful I am to have him as a father and he said ‘Bear, now you have a son’ as if he passed the torch. He died that November. My son was two at the time.”

30 | JUNE 2015 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

FAMILY IN FOCUS

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Hooray for Dads!

Debbie L. Conley, LCSW is a clinical social worker and therapist in Geneva. She specializes in child and adolescent therapy, parenting issues and trauma/ptsd.

une is the month we celebrate our dads and all they do for us. For many children, thankfully there is a father in their lives who is present and actively involved in their world. For other children, that is not the case. Due to divorce or single parenting, many dads find themselves taking a back seat when it comes to hands on parenting of their children. Not every dad wants to be “The Disney World” weekend parent. Many dads embrace their roles, and want to be an active participant in their children’s lives even if they are not the residential parent. According to research from “Fathers and Their Impact on Children’s Well-Being”, “Even from birth, children who have an involved father are more likely to be emotionally secure, be confident to explore their surroundings, and as they grow older, have better social connections”. Fathers bring their own unique style of parenting to the table. For instance, dads who “play” with their children

32 | JUNE 2015 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

FAMILY IN FOCUS

tend to be more active and physical. Rough and tumble floor play or actively engaging in play at the park helps foster coordination and physical development. Dads generally have higher expectations for their children and are focused on preparing them someday for the real world. No baby talk or second chances for bad behavior here! Dads also tend not to get upset by the day-to-day little details that moms do. For instance, is it really worth a huge battle if your child refuses to take a bath one night? Sometimes, dads can turn that situation around and make a boring bath fun! They are good at turning work into play. So, let dad take the reins once in awhile. They may do things differently, but that’s okay. In addition, it will give you a much-needed rest from the mundane day-to-day rituals and a needed break! Your kids will thank you, too.

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HEALTH & WELLNESS

PROSTATE CANCER: To Screen or Not to Screen By MARTHA MADDI

hey are our fathers and our brothers. Our husbands and friends. Our children’s fathers and our own sons. It goes without saying that we want them healthy and safe. And as they age, one common concern is the risk of prostate cancer.

It is one of the most common types of cancer in men. One in three men aged between 40 and 60 has traces of prostate cancer, with the risk rising as men grow older. There is a test to screen for it, called prostate-specific-antigen (PSA), but it currently is under great debate. The quandary: an elevated score may or may not signify cancer; if there’s cancer, it may or may not ever progress; and exploring further with a biopsy may or may not cause complications. That’s why members of the American Urological Association (AUA) recently changed their screening recommendations from encouraging healthy men over the age of 40 to have it to discouraging screening of men who are at average-risk under the age of 55. According to the AUA, men should “weigh the benefits against the potential harms.” “Many of my patients tell me they heard that the PSA blood test is a bad test,” says Michael Rashid, M.D., urologist at Illinois Urological Institute, which has offices in Geneva, Aurora and Winfield. “The truth is that it is still a useful tool but like any tool, one needs to know how to use it properly.”

The Prostate and PSA

The prostate is a gland, about the size of a walnut, which helps make semen. It also makes the PSA protein. In some men with cancer, PSA levels may be elevated. According to the Prostate Cancer Foundation (PCF), there is no unanimous opinion in the medical community regarding the benefits of prostate cancer screening. Those who advocate regular screening believe that finding and treating prostate cancer early offers men more treatment options with potentially fewer side effects. Those who recommend against regular screening note that because most prostate cancers grow very slowly, the side effects of treatment would likely outweigh any benefit that might be derived from detecting cancer at a stage when it is unlikely to cause problems. Indeed, according to Dr. Rashid, “the chance that prostate cancer will be fatal is only about 2 to 3 percent.” The National Cancer Institute (NCI) noted that, more than half of all American men have some cancer in their prostate glands by the age of 80 but most of these cancers never pose a serious threat to these men’s’ health. “The bottom line is that PSA testing is associated with some risks, such as temporary biopsy related infection, side effects of treatment, and treatment of cancer that may have never become a health problem,” Dr. Rashid explains. “However, in the right patient, PSA testing can result in treatment and cure of a cancer that would have shorted a life.”

-Continued on page 35

-Continued from page 35

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Risk Factors for Prostate Cancer, according to NCI: • OLDER AGE – Men who are 50 or older have a higher risk of prostate cancer. • RACE – African-American men have the highest risk for getting this cancer. For these men, the disease tends to start at younger ages and grows faster than in men of other races. The next race to have a high risk of developing prostate cancer is white men. • FAMILY HISTORY – Men whose fathers or brothers have had prostate cancer have two to three times higher risk of getting it themselves. Men from families with a history of breast cancer also have a higher risk. • DIET – Men who eat high fat diets are more likely to get prostate cancer.

Symptoms, according to the NCI: • Trouble passing urine • Frequent urge to pass urine, especially at night • Weak or interrupted urine stream • Pain or burning when passing urine • Blood in the urine or semen • Painful ejaculation • Nagging pain in the back, hips or pelvis

Treatments, according to Dr. Rashid: • Surgical removal of the prostate or destruction of the prostate by radiation or freezing • A strategy called “watchful waiting,” available for those men with less dangerous forms of prostate cancer. The benefit is that the patient is able to avoid the side effects associated with prostate removal or destruction. • For advanced prostate cancer that already has spread from the prostate to other distant areas, hormonal and chemotherapy treatment options can slow cancer progression.

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“I believe that on the horizon are noninvasive tests that will better detect prostate cancer,” says Dr. Rashid. “I also think that advances will focus on better assessment of which prostate cancer patients need to be treated, rather than on new treatment methods.”

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on the

SKIES Bear Wegener turns childhood fancy into grownup hobby By ALLISON HORNE

rom the most commanding of jetliners to the smallest of Cessnas, it’s hard not to glance to the sky when the hum of a plane goes by.

At least that’s the way it has always been for Aurora-raised Bear Wegener. “As a kid I remember hearing an airplane and every time I would look up,” Wegener says. “I would always wonder what kind of plane it was.” And while most people are intrigued by aviation, not many act on those impulses. For the longest time, Wegener didn’t follow up on his interest in flying. It took a friend, Jeff Cristi, to offer a ride and a few lessons to Wegener for his hobby to finally take off. “You know that feeling you get when you know it’s true love?” Wegener says. “That was it.” Just a few hours up in the air completely changed his life, and Wegener decided to take up flying for himself. HIS PLANES After getting a taste of the flying, it didn’t take long for Wegener to purchase his very own plane in 2002. Forget his license and all of his certifications – he bought a plane after just four hours of airtime.

Axis Designs, which specializes in fabricating fixtures and settings for the food service industry. As the owner, he often travels all over the Midwest to meet with his clients and having a plane at his fingertips often helps him get places very quickly. “Hopping in a plane is like hopping in a car for me,” Wegener says. “A drive to Bloomington is two hours, but it’s 40 minutes in a plane. It’s all about the convenience factor and speed.” Wegener will often get a call and be in that city in less than a few hours following a short flight. “There are no cars, no speeding tickets, no stop signs and it’s a straight shot to where you’re going,” he adds. The luxury of having your own plane also has its perks for personal travel—Wegener has traveled to Myrtle Beach, visited his late father in Southwest Missouri and even visited his then-girlfriend, now-wife in Texas regularly. “My dad lived by an airstrip so a 10-hour drive turned into a four-hour flight for me,” he says. “As you can tell, it was very motivating for me to get an airplane.”

Photo by Ron McKinney

“I didn’t have any certificates, and for all I knew, I wasn’t going to pass,” Wegener says. “I just knew what I knew. So I dove in.”

THE HIGHS OF FLYING Seeing the world at 41,000 feet brings a whole new perspective to things.

The plane he purchased in 2002 is a 1986 Cessna Cardinal, which reaches speeds of 120 miles per hour. Although he didn’t have his license at the time of purchase, Wegener wound up passing all of the necessary tests later on.

“Knowing that you’re beating everyone on the highway, and knowing that there is so much freedom, engineering and innovation to flight is exhilarating,” Wegener says. “I have to remind myself that flying constantly is not normal or ordinary.”

Recently, he partnered with a friend and career pilot Joe Dougherty to make the jump to a quicker plane, a Beechcraft Bonanza.

Wegener says he often forgets how fortunate he is to know how to fly, and brings up his friends for joyrides to share the rush of flying.

“It was just a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and I had the resources at my fingertips with Joe,” Wegener says. “It’s like a magic carpet. It’s super fast and super high-tech. It’s really like a Corvette in the sky.”

“Such a short time ago, nobody could fly and now we can fly anywhere we want,” he says. “It offers so much freedom. I could fly across the country and not tell anyone if I so choose. It’s such a liberating feeling.”

Both are housed at the Sky Haven of Aurora at the Aurora Municipal Airport.

It appears that Wegener’s passion for airplanes has rubbed off on his children as well. His four-year-old son, Charlie, and a two-year-old daughter, Keelin, both have the same habit of staring at the sky.

FOR BUSINESS AND PLEASURE Flying isn’t just for fun for Wegener. He also uses his personal plane for his own business,

HOME & LIFESTYLE

“Every time a plane goes over us, they say, ‘daddy, daddy, airplane!’”

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | JUNE 2015 | 41

Air time Alvin Cole bolsters passion for planes By TOM WITOM

evoted to radio-controlled model airplanes and helicopter enthusiasts, the Fox Valley Aero Club (FVAC) counts among its ranks both current and retired professional pilots. However, most members joined the club as hobbyists with nothing more than a strong passion for aviation, says Alvin Cole, who is now in his second term as president of the St. Charles-based organization. “Aviation was a passion of mine as a kid,” Cole says, recalling how as an adult the birthday gift of a radio-controlled helicopter reignited his interest in the hobby. Since then, Cole says he has owned upwards of 20 R/C planes with varying degrees of sophistication from the simplest battery-operated

42 | JUNE 2015 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

HOME & LIFESTYLE

model to ones that are gasoline-powered. Cole, currently flies his scale-model Cessna 182 helicopter, weather-permitting, twice a week at the club’s 10-acre field equipped with an 800-by-50-foot wide asphalt runway and parallel grass runway. As much as Cole enjoys the thrill of flying his aircraft, “the joy of the flight hasn’t necessarily been about me being behind the controls,” he says, adding he gets much satisfaction from building and repairing equipment as well as witnessing the finished results and allowing other members to navigate those planes. Model planes can soar to an average height of onequarter mile and achieve straight-line speed of 65 to 70 m.p.h., though when pilots perform stunts the

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speed is considerably reduced. Public attendance is welcome at the second annual Windy City Warbirds and Classics R/C Air Show scheduled for June 25-27 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (with special noontime shows) at 3821 Karl Madsen Dr., St. Charles. Admission is $5 per adult; children 12 and younger are free. Food will be available for purchase from a vendor on the site, and visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets.

“I was always adamant about instilling the three goals toward which the club’s membership strives: be courteous to others, keep safe and have fun. This year we changed the mantra to be more courteous, keep more safe and have more fun,” says Cole.

Fox Valley Aero Club also prides itself on being community-minded. It supports Cub Scouts who conduct a rocket fest at its field; kids’ day, where children are given basic instructions on how to fly a plane; and donates Cole says the event is designed to showcase to the Toys-for-Tots program run by the U.S. replicas of planes with 80-inch or greater Marine Corps Reserves. More on Fox Valley wingspans that participated in some type Aero Club and its events is available on its of military conflict since World War I and “classics,” models of aircraft build before 1975. website: www.foxvalleyaero.com

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Find Us Just South of 20 at McLean Ave., in Elgin (847) 695-2211 KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | JUNE 2015 | 43

Volcano Mulch

JUST DON’T DO IT… By MEAGAN PROVENCHER, SR. LANDSCAPE DESIGNER, ICN

Shredded bark mulches are an excellent way to help your landscape retain moisture and lend a neat, clean aesthetic appearance, especially around a lone tree in the yard or parkway. However, there is an epidemic of “Volcano Mulching” going around in our neighborhoods! Are you (or your landscaper) doing more harm than good by your mulching practices? INCORRECT

CORRECT

44 | JUNE 2015 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

“Volcano mulch” is the practice of piling 4-12 inches (or more) of bark mulch in a 2-3 foot diameter circle around the base of trees, with the bark mulch riding up the trunk of the tree (see photos). This practice is harmful to trees for a number of reasons. First, when mulch is so deep, roots tend to travel upward from the soil/root ball into the mulch above ground when the mulch is wet from rain or watering. Wet mulch is a favorable growing medium to young roots, but then the same young roots are damaged when the mulch dries out between waterings or in time of drought. Mulch cannot hold as much moisture as soil, therefore, the roots easily dry out and even die, causing damage or death to the tree.

Heavy, incorrect mulching also can lead to fungal cankers around the trunk of the tree where the mulch is piled, bark decay, rodent damage and girdling roots. All of these issues easily can cause your tree to grow incorrectly or can kill it in short order. You can Google “Volcano Mulch” and read for hours (and view the horrible photos!) And let’s be honest…it’s just silly to have these poor trees humiliated with giant mounds of mulch around them!

You can correct the situation simply, if you have recently mulched young trees: just rake the mulch back from around the trunk and spread it out evenly around the root ball, exposing the trunk of the tree. If you have older trees that have been mulched year after year at the incorrect depth, it may take a little more “Volcano mulch” also can act as an umbrella, love and care. Gently start to remove the layers causing any rainfall or irrigation that does get of mulch, trimming any roots growing in the to the tree to run off immediately, rather than soak into the actual root zone of the tree. A flat, mulch. You can do this in a series of phases if the roots seem to be heavy in the mulch layer. two-inch deep ring of mulch will allow water to gently pool and soak into the soil where the After you have removed the extra mulch and roots, re-mulch with no more than two inches. roots can use the moisture. HOME & LIFESTYLE

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In fact, mulch should be no more than two or three inches deep at any time in the garden around any plant material, and should not touch the trunk of trees. Extra dirt and sod from cleaning up edges should not be piled at the base of trees and covered with mulch. If your landscaper disagrees – fire him! If your spouse disagrees… take away his wheelbarrow!

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90 Meagan Provencher is the Sr. Landscape Designer for Wasco Nursery. She can be reached at 630-584-4424 or design@ wasconursery.com She may be spying on you to make sure you fix your mulch. www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

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KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | JUNE 2015 | 45

Alive

with energy Planned spaces, historic places keep the Windmill City spinning By WENDY FOSTER Batavia, the oldest town in Kane County, nestled along the Fox River, has boasting rights for unique, and even exclusive, attractions and amenities. In its early history, it was the largest windmill producer of the time, with as many as a dozen local companies in the industry. Later, it became the home of Fermilab National Accelerator Laboratory; the U.S. Department of Energy sponsored particle physics and accelerator lab, earning Batavia the distinction of being known as the City of Energy. Batavia’s newest attraction is about human energy - its downtown woonerf, or “living street.” The Dutch-inspired space is an urban planning tool, designed to encourage pedestrian, bike and low-speed automobile traffic. The concept, according to city administrator Bill McGrath, was to revitalize Batavia’s downtown area. “The idea of the woonerf was to develop an area that would be like a plaza, friendly to pedestrians

46 | JUNE 2015 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

and bicyclists,” he says. “The woonerf is being used and appreciated.” With areas for outdoor eating, McGrath says the woonerf, located north of Wilson Street on Route 25, has drawn a number of new restaurants and new or relocated shops.

smaller businesses, galleries, studios and restaurants.

“There’s a farmer’s market on Saturday mornings which usually features performances, cooking demos, and fresh baking,” he says. Its close proximity to the Fox River bike trail “brings hundreds of people through the area all of the time.”

A second business district, extending along the Randall Road corridor, hosts larger big box stores and national restaurants. McGrath says that the result is “two areas that work in tandem with each other” offering everything that local residents might need or want.

The woonerf is perhaps the only one of its kind in northern Illinois, according to McGrath.

Batavia has a highly rated library and school district, award-winning park district, abundant shopping and dining venues, and a caring and engaged community according to McGrath. “We have everything needed right within our community. You really don’t need to leave it if you don’t want to,” he says.

“Other cities are coming to look at ours; people doing downtown planning. You’ll be seeing more and more of these.” Extending beyond this newly planned “living street” concept is the rest of Batavia’s downtown district which is “a little more personal” features

HOME & LIFESTYLE

“The architecture is historical and interesting, and we have some wonderful public art,” McGrath explains.

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BATAVIA’S BEST

Don’t miss these great spots through the summer! HALL QUARRY BEACH Hall Quarry Beach occupies a former stone quarry harkening back to the late 1880s. Following its closure at the turn of the century, water seeped in from underground springs and filled the hole. In 1920, philanthropist Frederick H. Beach bought and donated the land and it opened as an official swimming area. Now owned by the Batavia Park District, it features a sand bottom swimming area covering 60,000 square feet that includes islands, slides, and a diving area. There’s a playground and plenty of picnic tables as well. Pool passes are available to residents or visitors may pay a daily fee. Its picturesque location lends nostalgia to the award-winning space. Daily and summer passes are available to residents and visitors alike. BATAVIA DEPOT MUSEUM Home of the Batavia Historical Society, the Depot Museum once was the abandoned Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad Depot at Webster and Van Buren Streets, erected in 1854. Now moved about a mile to the Riverwalk and renovated, operation of the museum is a cooperative effort between the park district and the society. The building was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979. The interior of the Depot is preserved much as it looked when passengers stopped at the window to seek information or to buy a ticket for a ride to a nearby town. Batavia railroad history comes alive in a permanent exhibit about the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad (est. 1850), the Chicago & North Western Railroad (est. 1872) and the Chicago, Aurora & Elgin Electric Line (est. 1902). Three railroad lines served Batavia freight and passenger service until the mid-1900’s when the automobile became the transportation of choice. On display are many railroad artifacts, photos and ticket agent office. A detailed section on the telegraph system and its role in railroad history includes live telegraph keys where visitors can try their hand at sending messages using Morse Code.

BATAVIA RIVERWALK One of the jewels of the Batavia Park District the Riverwalk was created as a cooperative effort by the Park District, the City of Batavia, and a dedicated group of community members. Extending from the entry plaza at Houston St. north along the Depot Pond the walk features a board walk leading to the North Point Pavilion. This Pavilion provides a grand view of the river to both the north and south. Following the walk around to the east, walkers will encounter the Batavia dam as well as the Riverwalk wild flower sanctuary. In the buildings across the river, windmills were produced from the mid 1800s until the 1940s. Many examples of these mills can be found along the Riverwalk. The walk winds up along the east side of the City of Batavia Government Center. At the south end of the Government Center pedestrians and bicyclists can cross a walking bridge to the east side of the river. Once there they can access the eastern leg of the Fox River Bike Trail. In the summer months, visitors can enjoy a leisurely ride on a four-person paddle boat. The cost is $10 for half hour. Concerts and other cultural events are hosted at the Peg Bond Center near the entry plaza . WATER STREET STUDIOS Water Street Studios is a Nonprofit Arts Center, home to two galleries, 28 artist studios, three classrooms, access programs for ceramics, printmaking and welding, a visiting artist residency, and a thriving community of artists. Houses in a 16,000 sq-ft historic limestone building in downtown Batavia, this notfor-profit organization develops artists who share their passion with the wider arts community here in the tri-cities and beyond. Gallery events, writer workshops, youth classes and more are offered throughout the year.

-Continued on page 48

Photo by Lorae Mundt www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

HOME & LIFESTYLE

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | JUNE 2015 | 47

-Continued from page 47

Batavia Summer Events u PUTTS AND PIG-41ST ANNUAL CHAMBER OF COMMERCE GOLF CLASSIC AND PIG ROAST will be held on Monday, June 1st at Eagle Brook Country Club at 11 a.m.-9 p.m. The event will include golf, dinner, games, a raffle, awards, and more. $150/golfer, $35 for dinner only. For additional information email info@ BataviaChamber.org or call 630-879-7134.

• June 18th-Piano Man • June 25-Billy Croft and The 5-Alarm • July 2-Johnny Russler and the Beach Bum Band • July 16-Stealing Ginger • July 23-The Original Fenderskirts • July 30-Spoken Four • August 6-Red Woody For additional information call 630-879-5236 or visit www.bataviaparks.org. u WINDMILL CITY FESTIVAL held in downtown Batavia July 9-12 is the town’s largest event each year. The festival includes a carnival, children’s activities, live entertainment, food, a trail run, craft show and flea market, beer garden and more. For additional information visit windymillcityfest.org.

u ART IN YOUR EYE FESTIVAL is a three-day celebration of the arts, held in downtown Batavia on August 14-16. The juried show features the work of artists in various mediums including oils, watercolors, sculpture, jewelry and more. The event also includes live entertainment, a craft beer and wine garden, family activities and more. For additional information visit ArtInYourEye.com.

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u THE 12TH ET BATAVIA TRIATHLONDUATHLON- will be held on June 7. The USAT sanctioned event begins with a 400-meter swim in the Harold Hall Quarry Beach, continuing with a 14.7-mile bike route and a 4.1-mile run along the Fox River. The Splash and Dash Kid’s Dash for youth ages 7-15 is a non-competitive run and swim. For additional information visit www.bataviatriathlon.org.

u BATAVIA PARK DISTRICT’S RIVER RHAPSODY CONCERT SERIES features live musical performances on Wednesday evenings at the Riverwalk. Concerts include:

48 | JUNE 2015 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

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Shaw Media file photos

LOCAL HOTSPOT Pal Joey’s offers neighborhood hospitality with a view to savor By SHONDA DUDLICEK West Chicago restaurant co-owner John Hamel was riding the bike trail near the riverwalk in his hometown of Batavia when he stopped at a building. “I’m going to open up there,” he told his friend. And thus the second location of popular suburban eatery, Pal Joey’s, was born. Opened in 2012, the restaurant shares a name with the Broadway musical and later the film starring Frank Sinatra, and boasts Italian cuisine and a picturesque riverside patio at its downtown Batavia location, with seating for 200. The specialty award-winning pizza starts with an Italian bread recipe, handmade with a unique flavor. “Everyone loves pizza,” Hamel says. “It’s a great pizza to eat with your kids and get a nice adult meal.”

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Ingredients are fresh, rarely frozen. Pal Joey’s offers three varieties of veal, plus poultry, beef, pork and seafood. Appetizers from baked stuffed clams to Buffalo wings, antipasto and grilled crab cake salads, pasta fagioli, minestrone and baked onion soups. Barbecue ribs and pastas round out the menu, and Hamel works with staff to create dishes like garlic knots, a dough stuffed with garlic and basil; and Joey’s Chicken, with asparagus, mushrooms, and artichoke hearts in a white wine sauce. “These are things that we like, and try to pass on to our customers,” Hamel says. A Batavia resident for 12 years, Hamel says it’s important to be involved in the community, “not just a business, but someplace people can count on.” Pal Joey’s participates in fundraisers such DINING & ENTERTAINING

a local run for Underground Polar Express for suicide prevention and dine-out nights for area schools. With its close proximity to the riverwalk and bike path, Pal Joey’s is an anchor to revitalize downtown. Hamel says the allure is the historic building itself, located on the city’s recently re-energized River Street plaza. The patio is a neighborhood hotspot, boasting picturesque views of the Fox River, insulated from the hustle and bustle of Wilson Avenue. “It’s a work in progress to bring people downtown. With more selections, word gets out. Activity breeds activity.”

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | JUNE 2015 | 49

CUT ABOVE Local cooks and backyard grillers turn to skilled butchers By TOM WITOM

Photo by Jennifer Kaye

ith a stash of charcoal briquettes or full propane tank at the ready, local “grill meisters” – veterans and novices alike – are getting fired up for their favorite time of the year: barbecue

season.

And when it comes to provisioning the larder, many of Kane County’s backyard chefs with a taste for quality again find themselves turning to trusted markets for their meat, fish and side dishes. One such establishment is Ream’s Elburn Market. The thriving independent mom-and-pop shop has roots dating back to 1904, though Robert and Phyllis Ream acquired the business in 1954. Their son Randy now runs the shop.

50 | JUNE 2015 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

Its products cover the gamut and includes beef, pork, poultry, lamb, homemade fresh sausage and fish. Ream says his loyal customers know that “if they want something not in our product lineup, we’ll seek out a recipe and try to make it.” Ream’s also does a thriving business in hickory-smoked beef and sausages at its two onsite smokehouses, some of which are sold to area restaurant accounts. “We make eight different kinds of hot dogs, polish sausage, andouille and salami plus a dozen kinds of snack sticks and turkey products,” he says, adding that customer service differentiates its business from meat departments in large, impersonal corporate groceries. The quality of meat he sells also is noteworthy; Ream says he only uses Choice or higher grades.

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We make over 100 varieties of Smoked Meats and Sausages.

To accommodate growth, Ream says he is looking at a new location in town, a preexisting building that offers a much larger space. He expects to complete the transaction by fall. Randy Ream has won more than 200 state and national awards in “just about every class” including hot dogs, hams, bacon and sausage and made the Cured Meat Hall of Fame. Two sons, Joel and Stewart, have gained hands-on experience in the business working with their father. Another highly regarded resource by home cooks, Josef’s Elegante Meats & Deli, in Geneva, is a family business for three generations now owned by Patrick Falcone, 65, and his wife Nanette. Their sons also are involved in the business: Patrick Jr. as operations manager, and Joe, who helps with meat cutting on the weekend and catering operations.

Your Grilling Headquarters this Summer FATHER’S DAY • FAMILY PICNICS • JULY 4TH ✓ Treat Dad to Steak and Chicken Kabobs ✓ Celebrate the Family - Our Own, Italian Beef, Pork, Bar-B-Que, Potato Salad, Meat and Cheese Trays ✓ July 4th - National Grand Champion Bratwurst, Beef Wieners, Steaks, Burgers

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“I started learning to cut meat as a teenager in Chicago and had my journeyman’s card at 16,” says Falcone. Before settling in Geneva in 1998, he ran a meat market in the Bloomingdale-Roselle area. Falcone says gourmet burgers – bacon, onion and cheddar; a sausage burger; a cheeseburger; and a jalapeno burger with jack cheese – are among the store’s most popular items. Each is 12 ounces of sirloin and free from preservatives, dyes and chemicals. Also much in demand by home grillers are the shop’s bacon, onion and cheddar mini-sliders, eight to a package, that “sell as fast as we can make them.” Pretzel rolls that go with them are made in-house. Other popular items with the grill crowd are Italian sausage, beer-and-onion bratwurst, jalapeno brats and hot sausage. “It’s all-natural pork – no fillers or hormone injections, just pure pork butt,” Falcone says. “Once you taste it, you’ll know right away.” A refrigerated display case showcases 15 to 18 different deli salads as well as Nanette Falcone’s specialties: eggplant parmigiana, Italian meatballs and lasagna. Josef’s Elegante was one of the first shops in the

-Continued to page 52 www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

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Describing how consumer tastes have changed, Ream says: “We’re cutting a lot of flatiron steaks and boneless short ribs. And we see a lot more flank and skirt steaks.”

KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | JUNE 2015 | 51

“I started learning to cut meat as a teenager in Chicago and had my journeyman’s card at 16.”

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Falcone also sells an extensive selection of fish, including wildcaught Chilean sea bass, Florida Grouper, Alaskan and Norwegian salmon and halibut. Customers also turn to the freezer case for breaded cod, three differently flavored tilapia, Alaskan scallops and cold-water lobster tails and crab legs as well as extra-large shrimp (8 to 10 count per pound).

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Customers who prefer to leave the grilling to other capable hands are stopping at Josef’s Elegante with blankets and lawn chairs on Saturdays, weather-permitting, between 11 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. when they can purchase 12-ounce burgers and 8-ounce Philadelphia-style ribeye right off the grill as well as foot-long hot dogs and beer-andonion brats with sauerkraut.

CAR SHOWS on Mondays es in St. Charl

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WWW.ROOKIESPUB.COM 52 | JUNE 2015 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

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KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | JUNE 2015 | 53

Swedish heritage festivities coming to Geneva

Geneva honors its Swedish history with two events in June.

he Geneva Chamber of Commerce kicks off Swedish Days June 23-28 in downtown Geneva with music, food, carnival rides and ends with a parade on the last day of the event.

Central stage is located on Third Street on the courthouse lawn, and offers a music lineup that includes Ricky Davis, 7th Heaven, Swedish American Children’s Choir, and Dennis O’Brien Band. Geneva’s Got Talent semi-finals will showcase local talent for a chance to to win a $1,000 cash prize.

Children’s activities include an ice cream eating contest, dodgeball tournament, fire hose challenge, jumping tent and The Runaway Circus offers tight wire lessons, balancing on a rolling globe and spinning plate lessons.

A more traditional single day Swedish Day celebration will take place Sunday, June 21, at Good Templar Park, 528 East Side Dr., Geneva. The event, organized by the Swedish Day Committee of International Organization of Good Templars, is celebrating 105 years of the Midsummer festival. Swedish Day has something for everyone: arts and crafts fair, Scandinavian food, Maypole celebration, live music, children’s choir, all-day carnival, and a presentation of the “Raven,” an 1893 replica of the Viking ship Gokstad that once sailed the world. Children’s games and crafts will be available all day. Swedish delicacies include fried herring, Swedish pancakes, Swedish coffee bread, Swedish meatballs and almond tarts, as well as hamburgers, hot dogs and sloppy joes.

Shaw Media file photos

Whether you have a taste for Swedish fare or Elephant Ears, there will plenty of food booths to peruse and make a selection. Vegan and veggie burgers, garlic crab pasta, pork chop sandwiches, hamburgers, hot dogs, Swedish meatballs and much more will be available. For those age 21 and older, a beer garden with live entertainment will be on site.

For more information and a full schedule, go to www.genevachamber.com/swedish_days.

Admission for adults $5; children 12 and younger admitted free. People who come dressed in traditional Scandinavian Folk costumes also admitted free. uFor more information about Swedish Day, go to www.swedishday.net.

54 | JUNE 2015 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

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JUNE EVENTS In Kane County JUNE 7 | GOD OF CARNAGE Sunday, 3 p.m. Steel Beam Theatre, 111 W. Main St., St. Charles Two couples meet to discuss their sons’ altercation on the soccer field... the evening remains anything but civil! Bitingly funny! Directed by Marge Uhlarik-Boller and featuring James Turano, Jennifer ReevesWilson, Amanda Flahive, and John Westby. Price: Adults $28; Seniors $25; Students $23. For more information, go to http:// www.steelbeamtheatre.com/ JUNE 8 | ART 2015 - “IT’S WHAT WE DO” GALLERY SHOW Monday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Fine Line Creative Arts Center, 37W570 Bolcum Road, St. Charles

A multi-media exhibit of works of art created in or inspired by Fine Line classes attended by the artists during the past year. For more information, go to http://fineline.org/ JUNE 9 | MONTHLY (DEMENTIA) CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP Tuesday, 1 to 2:30 p.m. Arden Courts of Geneva, 2388 Bricher Road, Geneva Family caregivers seeking support and dementia-specific resources are invited to attend this meeting. No RSVP is required; however, advance notice is needed for an on-site care requests during the meeting. For questions, or more information about this support group, call 630-262-3900 or email geneva@arden-courts.com. Free.

Make the Game of Golf a Family Affair

JUNE 13 | NEXT STEP RUNNING CLUB Saturday, 7 a.m., St. Charles Dick Pond, St. Charles Maintain your fitness level while running with friendly and outgoing runners. Runs vary from 3-6 miles and a course map is provided in advance. This allows you to adjust your mileage based on your current plan. Runners range from a pace between 7 and 12 minutes per mile. For more information, go to www.dickpondathletics. com.

woods and fields with our naturalist staff. Through hikes, nature games and activities, children will discover native animals and plants in their habitats and learn the importance of these living things in the web of life. Each day will bring a new adventure! Price: $100.00 —$100/child. Call 630-4443190 or email programs@kaneforest.com to register. JUNE 19-20 | BLUES ON THE FOX Friday, 7 to 10:30 p.m., Saturday, 3 to 10:30 p.m., RiverEdge Park, 360 N. Broadway, Aurora A celebration of Aurora’s rich Blues history with incredible music and top Blues artists! It’s a weekend of cold beer, smokin’ music and a good time, all while overlooking the gorgeous Fox River.

JUNE 14 | TOUR DE CURE CHICAGOLAND 2015 Sunday, 6:30 a.m., Two Brothers Roundhouse, 205 N. Broadway, Aurora Tour de Cure is a life-changing cycling event where riders of all levels join forces in the fight to Stop Diabetes® and raise critical funds for diabetes research, education and advocacy in support of the American Diabetes Association. Tour is a ride, not a race, with routes designed for everyone: occasional riders, families and experienced cyclists. $25 Registration Fee (includes food and hydration at our rest stops, plus $200.00 fundraising minimum) www. diabetes.org/chicagotour

Performances by: Royal Southern Brotherhood, North Mississippi Allstars, Moreland & Arbuckle, Otis Taylor Band, Mavis Staples and Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue. For more information, go to www.enjoyaurora.com.

JUNE 15 | WEEK IN THE WOODS DAY CAMPS Monday, 9 a.m. to noon, Creek Bend Nature Center, 37W700 Dean St., St. Charles During these five-day nature camps at Creek Bend Nature Center, children explore the

JUNE 27-28 | BARTLETT FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS Saturday, 10 a.m. To 5 p.m., Bartlett Park, 102 N. Eastern Ave., Bartlett The juried arts festival offers the work artists in a wide range of media, including paintings, photography, fiber, sculpture, glass, jewelry, wood and more. Price: $1.

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pottawatomiegc.com ∞ 630-584-8356 845 N. Second Avenue ∞ In Pottawatomie Park A Certiﬁed Audubon Sanctuary along the Fox River A facility of the St. Charles Park District www.kcchronicle.com/magazine

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Golf Punch Cards $78 for 6 rounds KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | JUNE 2015 | 55

Artist SHOWCASE BILL WORCESTER

Batavia RIVER Acrylic on Canvas

“The next painting is always going to be my favorite”. Inspired by nature and light, Worcester creates captivating landscapes that convey both realism and ethereal feelings through use of his own unique techniques. With a lifelong background in art, this painter has turned his avocation into a full-time pursuit. Worcester is represented by both

the Proud Fox Gallery in Geneva and the Kamp Gallery in Winnetka, and also teaches acrylic and oil painting classes at Fine Line Creative Arts Center in St. Charles. “Painters paint and talkers talk, so the best path to being an original is to paint and draw as much as possible,” advises Worcester. “Try to be better this year than last year and don’t compare your work to others, just be the best you can be.”

To submit an entry to Artist Showcase, email artwork, title of piece, name and village of residence of artist, a two- to three - sentence description of the piece, short bio and artist photo to KaneCountyMagazine@shawmedia.com, subject head “Local Artist Submission.”

56 | JUNE 2015 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

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Worcester’s interest in painting began at a young age. He earned a degree in art from North Central College and also studied at NIU, Truman College, and the American Academy of Art. During his artistically driven career, he has worked as a freelance illustrator, graphic designer, advertising artist, and ran a publications department for a Chicago corporation.

To view the original fine art of William Worcester visit: www.williamworcester.com

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KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | JUNE 2015 | 57

PETS

MAN ON FIRE By Anderson Animal Shelter

Featured Sponsor: DePaw University Canine Campus

Tom Chan knows how fortunate he is. A successful businessman, entrepreneur, philanthropist, and former US Marine that spent 6 years in the Infantry has found a way to combine his two passions. For almost 20 years he and his wife have opened their home to animals in need, mostly providing a safe place for displaced kittens and cats. Tom has also spent a significant amount of time assisting local veterans with their transition to civilian life. Today, Tom has found a place with Anderson Animal Shelter and is helping to shape their Military Veterans Program. “I couldn’t be more excited to serve our veterans while at the same time helping the animals that find themselves at Anderson Animal Shelter. If ever there was a true winwin-win, this has to be it,” says Tom. The program, which is in its infancy, will have several tiers, all meant to engage, inspire and connect our veterans with pets. Tom will encourage military veterans to explore options available to them at Anderson Animal Shelter whether on a temporary basis such as volunteering, providing a short-term foster home or adopting a new best friend. “This is a wonderful addition to the Shelter’s lineup of community programs and services,” said Andy Hanses, Director of Major and Planned Gifts at Anderson. “It gives us an opportunity to engage a specific group of people who might not have thought about us a resource or a place to dedicate time.” Pet owners and organizations such as schools, hospitals, nursing homes and retirement homes all know the benefit of having dogs and cats visit with their students, patients and residents. “In my own life I have

experienced the benefits of pet ownership during personal crisis,” said Tom. “Many years ago a small, unhealthy cat showed up at my door as I was waist deep in the stress of opening a new company. I helped him recover back to good health and his constant companionship and endless affection kept me in a productive place as I navigated through a difficult time in my career.” According to the National Center for Health Research, people who have a pet have healthier hearts, stay home sick less often, make fewer visits to the doctor, get more exercise, and are less depressed. Pets may also have a significant impact on allergies, asthma, social support, and social interactions with other people. “After opening my own business and assembling some of the best employees I’ve ever had, various types of drama between team members began to occur,” Tom explained. “It was primarily due to cross generational issues and other factors, and as a result employees weren’t living up to their ultimate potential and morale was low. I researched ways to solve the problem and one of the more progressive ideas I came across was an office pet. So in came Simon, our office dog. Simon brought the team together as they managed his care, feeding and walking. His unconditional love for each of us and constant presence brought my employees together as a team.” Both Tom and the Shelter anticipate being able to reach a number of veterans during the pilot stage of the program. The hope is to continue to increase the program’s goals and positively impact more lives as it develops and gains momentum. If you would like more information or would care to join in the Shelter’s and Tom’s efforts, please contact Tom Chan, Director of Veteran Services at (847) 697-2880 ext. 36 or by email at tchan@andersonanimalshelter.org.

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SOCIAL

The St. Charles Arts Council kicked off the councilâ€™s Campaign for a Downtown Center for the Arts and Education this month with an open house which included, video art, music and the featured work of more than a dozen local and regional artists. The council plans for the center to serve the community by providing downtown space for creating, performing, exhibiting, learning, and teaching, according to a news release. Photos by Joe Perez

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KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE | JUNE 2015 | 59

The Heart of Kane County is in the

Giving A non-proﬁt feature

Retreats, Workshops and Programs TriCity Family Services (TCFS) is committed to helping people strengthen themselves, their families, and their communities. In addition to counseling, TCFS offers several emotional wellness programs for children and teens that focus on communication skills, conflict resolution, positive decision-making, and self-esteem development. These include: • Smart Choices – A child and parent workshop that teaches communication techniques for children in kindergarten through 5th grade. There is a separate program for middle school and high school students. Participants are given tools to help them calm down when angry, learn the difference between needs and wants, understand different points of view, compromise and share, and respond to teasing.

• Bridges Divorce Adjustment Workshop – This program is designed for children between the ages of 7 and 11, and is meant to help them cope with their parents’ separation or divorce, answer commonly asked questions, and deal with the struggles of their changing family. • Wilderness Challenge Program An annual, week-long therapeutic canoeing and camping experience for teens who could beneﬁt from a strong character-building experience that will aid in their transition to high

school and young-adult life. With the guidance of trained staﬀ, and through a multitude of natural challenges, the trip enables teens to develop peer relationships, team-building experience, and problem-solving skills. To learn more about the many services provided by TCFS, please visit www.tricityfamilyservices.org or call (630) 232-1070.

• Teen Girls Retreat – For girls ages 14-17, this retreat weekend is designed to help girls increase their ability to respond with positive words and actions when experiencing challenging thoughts and emotions.

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COMMUNITY COMMITMENT

Julie Simpson keeps North Aurora riverfront flowing with activities By MELISSA RUBALCABA RISKE

orth Aurora resident Julie Simpson is proud of her zip code and she wants others to enjoy her community too.

As a volunteer with local organizations, Simpson has made an impact helping her community to grow with opportunities and increase its viability as a great place to live. “Some people think North Aurora is this sleepy little village between Aurora and Batavia, but it is a very dynamic community,” Simpson says. In 2008 she was invited to be a part of a group of volunteers taking an active look at increasing the recreation and enjoyment of the North Aurora riverfront. Her vision and persistence helped move the group from an advisory committee into what has become the North Aurora River District Alliance, an independent non-profit that works with the village, the Fox Valley Park District as well as local groups and businesses to enhance the visibility and usage of the riverfront. “Julie was the one who says we need to be our own non-profit,” says NOARDA chairwoman Jennifer Duncan of North Aurora. Duncan says Simpson was a true leader, bringing together people and ideas and helping to foster the success of NOARDA, which became an independent organization in 2009. “She is such a useful asset to bring people together,” Duncan says. “And she never gives up. She doesn’t take ‘no’ for an answer.” Simpson served as chairwoman of NOARDA from 2009-13 and under her leadership the group was able to form partnerships to support features that could enhance the riverfront such as the Water Wonders, a meandering stream where visitors are encouraged to splash and wade. In addition to the attractiveness of the

62 | JUNE 2015 | KANE COUNTY MAGAZINE

stream it was built keeping with the NOARDA mission of being environmentally friendly and fiscally responsible. It uses harvested rain water that continuously cycles through a natural filtration system. “It’s a very attractive feature,” Simpson says. Adding to the area this summer a new rain garden will take shape along the river. “There’s a lot of momentum in the village now and it’s great seeing things happen,” Simpson says. “We’re evolving and we’re moving forward.” While there are riverfront activities year round, summer includes special highlights from the monthly music concerts called Rhythm on the Riverfront to the parade party following annual North Aurora Community Parade. “It is wonderful to get everybody to the area,” Simpson says. It was Simpson who suggested that the annual parade, scheduled for June 7 this year, wind its way to the riverfront so NOARDA could host a post-parade Party in the Park and Duck Race. The parade is coordinated by the North Aurora Mothers Club. “It’s a great organization and it helps you get connected to the community,” Simpson says. “It offers many social activities and ways to be philanthropically involved.” Simpson joined the Mothers Club, also a non-profit organization, in 2006 when her own children were younger, and she served as president from 2008-09. She worked to build awareness of all that the club does for the community.

Mothers Club. “Her ambition is tremendous and she likes to see things happen.” Simpson’s dedication to the community was in addition to her busy life raising two children and continuing to work and making time to volunteer at her church and in her children’s school. Friends say Simpson is creative and caring, funny and sweet. “She keeps everyone motivated and feeling strong,” Duncan says. “If it can impact or beautify the community she will write up the plan.”

“Julie is a natural leader,” says Jessica Watkins, the current president of the North Aurora

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