Author: Fox Valley Magazine

Kanecountyconnects.com This is no typical graduation ceremony. For six recent graduates, the ceremony marks the completion of a two-year journey through intensive treatment, supervision, and accountability under the auspices of the Kane County Drug Rehabilitation Court (KCDRC). Drug Court provides non-violent offenders with the opportunity to enter a rigorous program monitored by substance abuse professionals, probation officials, and court personnel. The first year requires weekly court appearances and drug tests, with participants needing 12 months of sobriety and either full-time employment or enrollment in school to graduate. The latest graduates, dressed in red gowns, recently celebrated at…

Wine selections available at local wine stores and wineries in the Fox Valley area. Pizzolato, Cabernet SauvignonVeneto I.G.T., Italy – $15.99 No Sulfites Added, Vegan, Organic Wine! The main difference between a wine created with or without sulfites is the special attention that is paid in the vineyard as well as in the cellars to avoiding grape contamination. Sulfur is used in winemaking as the main antiseptic, preventing the grapes and wine from suffering the attacks of bacteria which could negatively affect or damage the wine completely. The wine making process without the use of sulfur means that the hygienic…

The Fox Valley Park District’s 55-year-old living history museum remains a popular destination throughout the year. Open May 1 through mid-August for general admission, camps and field trips, Blackberry features the Early Streets Museum, a collection of Fox Valley historical exhibits, an Adventure Playground and popular attractions, such as a replica steam engine train, carousel, pony rides, hay wagon and paddleboats. With stunning backdrops and photo ops throughout the year, Blackberry also plays host to widely popular seasonal events of Pumpkin Weekends throughout October and Holiday Express Thursdays-Sundays in December. Every fall, just about the time Mother Nature starts to…

Legendary funk band Average White Band will perform at the Arcada Theatre on Sunday, October 6, along with special guests Brass from the Past. The show begins at 5:00pm. AWB are widely regarded as one of the best soul and funk bands in the history of music. Though perhaps best known for their timeless instrumental mega-hit ‘Pick Up the Pieces’ the band’s strength actually lay in their consistently accomplished song-writing. The band took the influences of their R&B heroes – people like Marvin Gaye, James Brown, Donny Hathaway and others – and developed their own ‘authentic’ sound. Notable hits include…

On Saturday, September 21, the Kane County Cougars, fresh off of winning their first American Association Championship, presented the Taco & Tequila Fest at Northerwestern Medcine Field. As the title implies, it was an incredible evening. Here, from our intrepid publisher Kevin Ketchum, are some of the sights of the evening. (Photo credits Kevin Ketchum)

Must try appetizers, entrees, desserts or cocktails available at local Fox Valley restaurants. Che Figata Brick-Roasted ChickenChe Figata’s Brick-Roast Chicken is first cooked through a process called sous vide, which ensures tenderness and juciness, before it is crisped in Che Figata’s woodfire brick oven. It’s served year-round with seasonal sides and pictured here with house-made giardiniera made from local produce, including some from the Chef’s Garden at CityGate Centre, and Jordan potatoes. Che Figata2155 CityGate Lane, Suite 103Naperville, IL 605631-630-579-3210 CityGate Grille Chilean Sea BassCityGate Grille’s Chilean Sea Bass is tenderly grilled with citrus butter and served over garlic scallion…

The 39th annual St. Charles Scarecrow Weekend will take place from Friday, October 11 through Sunday, October 13 in downtown St. Charles. During this award-winning community event, there will be a variety of fall-themed entertainment and activities for individuals of all ages to enjoy. The Scarecrow Contest is the centerpiece of the event and will be taking place throughout the entirety of the weekend. The Scarecrow Contest allows individuals the chance to vote on their favorite scarecrows. There will be 120+ scarecrows across four different categories: Individual/Family, Business, Club/Not-for-Profit/School, and Mega/Mechanical. The Scarecrows can be found on Riverside Avenue, Lincoln…

The Village of Montgomery will present a free concert in Montgomery Park (301 North River Street) featuring Beatles Tribute band American English on Thursday, October 3, from 6:30pm to 8:30pm. Bring their chairs and blankets to sit back and relax as the band delivers a musical performance great for all ages. To add to the fun, two food trucks will be onsite. Guests can enjoy mouth-watering empanadas from Grumpy Gaucho, known for its flavorful Argentine-inspired fare, and Toasty Cheese, famous for its gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches. Street parking is available near the park with no time restrictions. This family-friendly event…

The City of Elgin has announced its groundbreaking ceremony for the expansion of the Elgin Sports Complex. The event will take place on Friday, Oct. 4, 2024, at 11am at the complex, located just south of U.S. Route 20, east of McLean Boulevard. The expansion project, with a construction budget of $21,004,250, will add three synthetic turf fields, lighting, and fencing to the 87 acres acquired from the state of Illinois. These additions will help meet community demand for multi-purpose sports fields, particularly for soccer and other recreational programs. “This project is a reflection of the growing need for additional…

The Windy Acres Farm Fall Festival runs from Saturday, September 14 through Halloween in Geneva. Enjoy Fresh Pumpkin Spice Donuts, Apple Cider Donuts, Apple Cider Slushies, Caramel Apples, Lunch, Corn Boil, Bar, Live Music/Dj, Kids’ Attractions, Pony Rides, Reptile Exhibit, Birds Of Prey Show, Jumping Pillow, Pumpkin Pie & Apple Pie, Pumpkin Butter, Shopping, Lounge, tons of Pumpkins in all shapes and colors, Bakery, Delicious Apples, Fresh Pressed Cider and much more. Also at the Festival, enjoy burgers, brats, hot dogs, a Build Your Own Corn-on-the-Cob Bar, and sweets and treats. The grill and corn bar are available weekends and…