Press Coverage

Press Coverage of The Old House New House Home Show at Pheasant Run Resort in St. Charles, IL

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TRENDS, TIPS AND TOP-NOTCH HOME IMPROVEMENT EXPERTS

Old House New House Home Show® Returns To Pheasant Run Resort for 35^th Annual Event

From Fox Valley Magazine

The largest, longest-running and most innovative home show in the Chicago area returns February 8th, 9th and 10th to Pheasant Run Resort in St. Charles. This year’s event is presented by Floor & Decor. Since 1984, this celebration of renovation, remodeling, design and transformation has been bringing together an outstanding roster featuring hundreds of award-winning contractors, talented designers, national brands, creative craftsmen, trade specialists, prominent retailers and industry innovators. An audience of 10,000 homeowners is expected to visit the event. Show hours are Friday, Saturday and Sunday 10 am to 5 pm. Adult admission is $7. Senior admission (over 62) is $4. Children under 18 attend free. Parking is free. A portion of the ticket proceeds benefits Habitat for Humanity of Northern Fox Valley and their ReStores in Elgin and Chicago.

New this year, Clint Harp of Harp Design Co., carpenter and craftsman from “Fixer Upper” on HGTV and “Wood Work” on DIY Network will be “in the house” for featured presentations on Saturday, 2/9 at 3 pm and Sunday, 2/10 at noon. Join Lou Manfredini for a live broadcast of his HouseSmarts radio show on WGN, Saturday, 2/9 from 7 – 10 am, sponsored by Perma-Seal Basement Systems and Lindemann Chimney and Fireplace. Daily, idea-sparking workshops on “Kitchen Design Trends,” “Beautiful Bathrooms” and “Paint Color Trends” will also be offered.  Workshops and attractions are included with admission; seating is limited.

The Mega Center and Ballroom will be brimming and bustling with engaging displays, live-demonstrations, product samples and cutting-edge services for home living, landscaping and home improvement. Explore the latest in kitchens, baths, basements, additions, new construction, carpentry, architecture, tile, stone, patios, pergolas, painting, flooring, fireplaces, renewable energy, roofing, waterproofing, window treatments, custom closets, heating and air, insulation, windows, doors, flooring and more will be presented by professionals. For event specifics call 630/515-1160 or visit www.kennedyproductions.com.

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Mr. Fix-It to appear at Old House New House Home Show in St. Charles

Lou Manfredini will broadcast radio show on Feb. 9 from Pheasant Run Resort

By ERIC SCHELKOPF
Feb. 1, 2019
Click here for original article

ST. CHARLES – Although his title is Mr. Fix-It, Lou Manfredini will admit that he doesn’t know how to fix everything.

The home improvement expert and radio and television personality will broadcast his “HouseSmarts” radio show from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. Feb. 9 at the 35th annual Old House New House home show at Pheasant Run Resort, 4051 E. Main St., St. Charles. Manfredini, who also is a home contributor on NBC’s “Today” show and WGN-TV’s morning news, will then meet and greet fans in the Perma-Seal booth #505 from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. that day.

Joining him at the show will be Clint Harp of Harp Design Co., carpenter and craftsman from the show “Fixer Upper” on HGTV and “Wood Work” on DIY Network. He will give presentations at 3 p.m. Feb. 9 and at noon Feb. 10.

Approximately 10,000 people are expected to attend the Old House New House home show, which is billed as the largest and longest-running home show in the Chicago. Show hours are from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Feb. 8, 9 and 10. Manfredini’s radio show will be broadcast in the New Orleans Ballroom at Pheasant Run Resort.

Adult admission is $7. Senior admission (over 62) is $4. Children under 18 attend free.

Parking is free. A portion of the ticket proceeds benefits Habitat for Humanity of Northern Fox Valley and their ReStores in Elgin and Chicago.

More information is available by calling 630-515-1160 or go to kennedyproductions.com.

Kane County Chronicle reporter Eric Schelkopf had the chance to talk to Manfredini about his upcoming appearance. The interview has been edited for style and length.

Eric Schelkopf: Of course, you will be doing a live broadcast of your “HouseSmarts” radio show at the Old House New House show. How many years have you been appearing at the show?

Lou Manfredini: That particular show I have appeared at for many years. I bet I’ve done my radio show out there at least a half a dozen times.

That number could be more. I’ve been out there quite a bit. We always get a really nice turnout. We’re lucky that WGN Radio has a lot of listeners in the western suburbs.

I think really, quite frankly, they come out for the free pastries and coffee. They could really care less about me.

Schelkopf: That’s not true. Does it make it special the fact that you are actually meeting people instead of taking their questions over the radio?

Manfredini: I am always super jazzed to meet our listeners and to help them face to face. It’s a great ego boost to meet people and to hear from them about how you have helped them over the years.

Not that my ego needs any stroking, but it’s just nice to meet people and help them on a personal level. And to entertain them. We have a lot of fun when we do live shows and so I’m always excited about participating in that.

Schelkopf: So as far as the knowledge that you’ve gained over the years, where does that knowledge come from?

Manfredini: I spent the vast majority of my career as a homebuilder. I started in the construction business when I was a teenager. I started my own business with a partner back in the ’80s and spent about 25 years building or renovating homes.

I just sort of really became a student of the industry. I was just really curious, you know. I think I would have made a very good engineer because I really enjoy understanding how things work.

I’ve always been very curious. I ask a lot of questions. And for some reason, the industry around the home has such a great interest to me that I’m able to retain that knowledge.

I said to her, ‘Why don’t we open up a hardware store in case this thing all fails so we have something to fall back on?’ She agreed, and it’s been one of the best business decisions I think we’ve made.

We have a really dedicated staff and really good people who we are impressed with every day.

Schelkopf: So what’s the best part of what you do?

Manfredini: I am fortunate enough that I’ve been doing this for a long time. If my wife and I or my family goes out to dinner, I’ll get recognized.

And I don’t say that to be full of myself. They will come up and say, ‘Hey, I like your show. I have a question.’

That to me is so cool. I think the most fulfilling thing for me is when I am able to help somebody.

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2019 Old House New House Home Show Press Release

Old House New House Home Show® Returns To Pheasant Run Resort for 35^th Annual Event

January 18, 2019
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Laura McNamara
Office:  630/515-1160
Mobile: 630/269-1160
E-Mail: Laura@kennedyproductions.com

> Download the 2019 Press Release

The largest, longest-running and most innovative home show in the Chicago area returns February 8^th, 9^th and 10^th to Pheasant Run Resort in St. Charles. This year’s event is presented by Floor & Decor. Since 1984, this celebration of renovation, remodeling, design and transformation has been bringing together an outstanding roster featuring hundreds of award-winning contractors, talented designers, national brands, creative craftsmen, trade specialists, prominent retailers and industry innovators. An audience of 10,000 homeowners is expected to visit the event. Show hours are Friday, Saturday and Sunday 10 am to 5 pm. Adult admission is $7. Senior admission (over 62) is $4. Children under 18 attend free. Parking is free. A portion of the ticket proceeds benefits Habitat for Humanity of Northern Fox Valley and their ReStores in Elgin and Chicago.

New this year, Clint Harp of Harp Design Co., carpenter and craftsman from “Fixer Upper” on HGTV and “Wood Work” on DIY Network will be “in the house” for featured presentations on Saturday, 2/9 at 3 pm and Sunday, 2/10 at noon. Join Lou Manfredini for a live broadcast of his HouseSmarts radio show on WGN, Saturday, 2/9 from 7 – 10 am, sponsored by Perma-Seal Basement Systems and Lindemann Chimney and Fireplace. Daily, idea-sparking workshops on “Kitchen Design Trends,” “Beautiful Bathrooms” and “Paint Color Trends” will also be offered. Workshops and attractions are included with admission; seating is limited.

The Mega Center and Ballroom will be brimming and bustling with engaging displays, live-demonstrations, product samples and cutting-edge services for home living, landscaping and home improvement. Explore the latest in kitchens, baths, basements, additions, new construction, carpentry, architecture, tile, stone, patios, pergolas, painting, flooring, fireplaces, renewable energy, roofing, waterproofing, window treatments, custom closets, heating and air, insulation, windows, doors, flooring and more will be presented by professionals. For event specifics call 630/515-1160 or visit www.kennedyproductions.com.

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About Kennedy Productions, Inc.

Since 1977, the Kennedy family has been producing, managing and hosting quality events, including The Old House New House Home Show®. The Kennedy team researches and recruits outstanding companies with unique products and superior services for this select event. Providing a reliable resource in a positive, collaborative and enjoyable environment is our priority. For more information please visit www.kennedyproductions.com.

 

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SPARK IDEAS FOR SPRING REMODELING, RENOVATIONS, TRANSFORMATIONS

The Old House New House Home Show Returns for 34th Inspiring Season

January 22, 2018
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Contact: Laura McNamara
Office:  630/515-1160
Mobile: 630/269-1160
E-Mail: Laura@kennedyproductions.com

> Download the 2018 Press Release

Explore the latest trends in home improvement at The Old House New House Home Show, February 9th, 10th and 11th at Pheasant Run Resort, 4051 E. Main Street in St. Charles. Since 1984, this event has been bringing together an outstanding roster of select participants featuring award-winning contractors, talented designers, creative craftsmen, trade specialists, national brands and industry innovators.  This year’s event will host 300 exhibitors and welcome an expected audience of 10,000 area homeowners for this weekend celebration.  The Mega Center and Ballroom both will be brimming and bustling with engaging displays, new products and specialty services for home living and design.  Discover fresh ideas for kitchens, baths, basements, tile with style, countertops, additions, new construction, architecture, fabulous flooring, landscaping, savvy storage, renewable energy, home automation, painting, window treatments, roofing, waterproofing, insulation, custom closets, fireplaces, heating and air, windows, doors and more.  Show hours are Friday, Saturday and Sunday 10 am to 5 pm.  Tickets are available at the door or in advance through Eventbrite. Adult admission is $7.  Senior admission (for 62+) is $4.  Children under 18 attend free.  Parking is free.  A portion of the ticket proceeds benefits Habitat for Humanity of Northern Fox Valley and their ReStores in Elgin/Chicago.  Visit www.kennedyproductions.com or call 630/515-1160 for more details.

Design workshops are included with admission. “Design Your Dream Kitchen” will be presented each day at 2 pm by Normandy Remodeling. Each day at 1 pm, “Beautiful Bathrooms” will be hosted by Advance Design Studio. Synergy Builders will present “Decorating Trends” on Sunday only at noon. New this year: “Design in Landscaping: Color and Trends” will be offered by Grant and Power at noon on Friday and Saturday. Lou Manfredini, Mr. Fix It, will be in the house for a live broadcast of his WGN Radio “Mr. Fix It” program, sponsored by Lindemann Chimney Co. and Green T Services, on Saturday morning from 7 to 10 am. Following the broadcast, Lou Manfredini will meet and greet fans in the Perma-Seal booth from 10:30 to 11:30 am. For a complete schedule of workshops, exhibitor list preview and a printable admission coupon, visit www.kennedyproductions.com.

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About Kennedy Productions, Inc.

Since 1977, the Kennedy family has been producing, managing and hosting quality events of distinction, including The Old House New House Home Show at Pheasant Run Resort.  This women-owned, family business researches and recruits top-notch companies with cutting-edge products and superior services in order to provide a reliable resource and enjoyable events for homeowners.  For more information please visit www.kennedyproductions.com.

 

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2017 Chicago Tribune Coverage of The Old House New House Home Show

Thousands look for ideas at home show

By Linda Girardi,
Chicago Tribune
February, 12, 2017 – click here for original article

Thousands of people strolled past exhibits and met with expert craftsmen at The Old House New House Home Show at the Pheasant Run Resort and Convention Center in St. Charles over the weekend.

Update, renovate and revitalize were buzz words around some 300 exhibits that featured the latest for kitchens, bathrooms, basements, additions, windows, heating and air conditioning and landscaping.

Visitors had a chance to speak with sales representatives, sit in on workshops and peruse the latest in products and services.

Elgin resident Laura Schmuldt said she was interested in new siding for her house. “It’s the place where I can get ideas and cost estimates. The show also gets me out of the house on a winter day,” Schmuldt said.

Lisle-based Kennedy Productions has made a name for itself in creating a “premier” show for the companies that reserve their place every year, and the guests that make sure it is their first stop before making decisions on their projects.

Event founder Joanne Kennedy started the show in 1977 in Crystal Lake. It has been held at the Pheasant Run since 1987. Daughter-producer Laura McNamara said their team of organizers work each year to make the show relevant and interesting for homeowners. McNamara said her parents bought a fixer-upper years ago in Glen Ellyn.

“They had to figure out how to renovate their home. Their work evolved into a passion for them,” she said.

McNamara said homeowners are resuming projects that were postponed since the 2008 economic downtown.

“Our clients are telling us the pent-up purchasing is starting to come to fruition,” she said.

Exhibits were spread across the Mega Convention Center and Ballroom and even spilled into hallways of the facilities. Organizers expected about 10,000 visitors for this year’s show from Kane and Dupage counties, as well as far as from Wisconsin and Indiana.

Chris Nichols of Oswego-based Premier Quality Windows and Siding said the newer windows are energy efficient and air-tight. “We live in a climate with extreme temperatures in the winter and summer. When your furnace is working hard to keep your house warm, you’re probably losing a lot of heat through the windows,” Nichols said.

Nichols said it can be a substantial investment to replace all of the windows in a home, but over time people will see a return on savings on their utility bills.

Tom Wyse of Elgin-based Climate Control Services spoke with people about home heating and cooling units. “We urge people to become an educated consumer,” Wyse said. Wyse doesn’t recommend changing out the furnace and waiting to do the same for the air-conditioner because there’s a chance the AC coils can leak into the heating unit.

“For warranties it’s best to change both systems together because they work together,” Wyse said. “We can always fix what a customer has until they feel comfortable about changing them together.”

Wyse said his family-owned business has participated in the show for the past 14 years.

Aurora-based Closets by Design had displays showing how people can rejuvenate their home closet space and home office space. Sales representative Valerie Bishop said homeowners are curious about custom clothes closets that fit their needs. “People can make better use of their closet space by removing the one rod that extends across a six-foot closet,” she said.

Jim Rose of Naperville-based JR’s Creative Landscaping said his business is bracing for a new season. “Pavers are so much more popular because of the newer wet-cast products that don’t fade and are resilient to temperature changes,” Rose said. “Concrete cracks, is porous and doesn’t last long. Decks are high maintenance.”

It was the first time Rough Cut Woods, a family-owned sawmill operation that transforms wood from dead trees into furnishings, was at the show.

Gary Kempiak of Serena, said people come to him when they have a beloved tree that has died, but they want to preserve the wood. He said the business can make such things as kitchen and coffee tables, as well as guitars and bar tops.

The company recently made news when it cut down a dead oak on Hobson Road in Naperville. “It was the oldest oak in Naperville,” he said. He said they have milled the wood and are in the process of making furniture that will be auctioned off for charity next fall.

 

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Daily Herald Coverage of the 2017 Old House New House Home Show

Find ideas at Old House New House Home Show in St. Charles

 

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Kane County Chronicle Press Coverage

Below is an article from the Kane County Chronicle, published January 24th, 2016.
Click here for the full article on www.kcchronicle.com

ST. CHARLES – An event that has celebrated the spirit of home improvement, renovation and transformation for more than 30 years is set to return to St. Charles next month, according to a press release.

The Old House New House Home Show is planned for Feb. 12 to 14 at Pheasant Run Resort, 4051 E. Main St., St. Charles. The event will take place from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Admission is $7 for adults, $4 for those older than 62 and free for those younger than 18, according to the release. It indicated that a portion of the proceeds will benefit Habitat for Humanity of Northern Fox Valley and the ReStore in Elgin.

Parking is free.

According to the release, the following workshops are included with admission:

• Decorating Trends will be presented daily at 11 a.m. by Deb Goetz of St. Charles-based Deb Goetz Interiors. Explore colors and styles with this designer to give a home a new look.
• Landscaping for Curb Appeal will be presented daily at noon by Stephen Carlin of Great Impressions Landscaping. Learn about design basics and innovative approaches for creating appealing and inviting outdoor environments.
• Beautiful Bathrooms will be offered daily at 1 p.m. by Jim Campbell CKD of Lamantia Design and Construction. Learn about trends in surfaces and strategies for space planning to create an updated bathroom.Design Your Dream Kitchen will be presented daily at 2 p.m. by John Habermeier of West Chicago-based Synergy Builders. Learn about design basics, flow, functionality, space planning, storage and trends in materials to create a dream kitchen.

Attendees may enter to win a $1,000 home show gift certificate to use with their exhibitor of choice, the release states. No purchase is necessary.

For information, call 630-515-1160 or visit www.kennedyproductions.com. The website includes a workshop schedule and printable admission coupon.

 

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Midday Fix Press Coverage of The Old House New House Home Show at Pheasant Run Resort in St. Charles, IL

Deb Goetz, of Deb Goetz Interiors was on the set of WGN TV’s Midday Fix highlighting home design tips as well as giving an exclusive preview of The Old House New House Home Show. Click on the image below to view the video. The area’s longest running Home Show returns this weekend at Pheasant Run Resort in St. Charles, IL – February 12 – 13 – 14, 2016.

 

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Midday Fix Press Coverage of The Old House New House Home Show at Pheasant Run Resort in St. Charles, IL

Jennifer Prell was on the set of WGN TV’s Midday Fix highlighting home organization tips as well as giving an exclusive preview of The Old House New House Home Show. Click on the image below to view the video.  The area’s longest running Home Show returns this weekend at Pheasant Run Resort in St. Charles, IL – February 6 – 7 – 8, 2015.

Frank Fontana appeared on WGN TV’s Midday News with Painting Tips, helpful hints and interior design how-to’s… a great preview for the tips and trends on hand at The Old House New House Home Show. Click to view.

Century Tile’s Pete the Pro appeared on WGN TV’s Midday News with helpful hints and how-to’s on updating backsplashes… a great preview for the tips and trends on hand at The Old House New House Home Show.

 

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The Kane County Chronicle
Local & Region
February 8, 2009
“Despite Recession, Turnout Good for St. Charles Home Show”
By Bethany Krajelis

ST. CHARLES – If there’s a recession going on, St. Charles business owner Harvey Willey said he sure didn’t see any signs of it at Saturday’s home show. Willey, the owner of Apple Blossom Landscape Concepts was one of more than 300 home improvement experts with a booth at the bi-annual Old House New House Home Show at Pheasant Run Resort’s Mega Center in St. Charles. Today is the final day of the show that has been taking place in St. Charles since 1977.

And while many people are pinching their pennies with a declining housing market and tough economy, Willey said his landscaping business has been doing pretty well. “I’ve found that many people are talking about selling their homes in a few years when the economy is better,” said Willey, who is scheduled to give a presentation at 2 p.m. today on Enhancing Curb Appeal. “I think they know the value of investing in their home… Studies show that professional landscaping can add value to your home.”

Event organizers and sisters, Laura McNamara and Beth Wall said they weren’t sure how many attendants they would get this year, but were thrilled with the turnout. They expect at least 10,000 people to come to over the three day show that was started by their mother, Joanne Kennedy, president of the Lisle-based Kennedy Productions. “I think a lot of people aren’t moving these days,” Wall said. “They are staying put and improving instead of moving.”

Barbara Greenup and Rita Schell Made the trek to St. Charles Saturday from River Forest to browse the large facility filled with home improvement exhibits ranging from kitchens and window treatments to home electronics and spas. “She needs a bathroom update and I’m always looking for design ideas,” Schell said. The friends said they got some great tips and learned the importance of how details, like texture and quality, can make a difference.

And while not everyone was signing their names to pricey projects, Frank Stompanato, a pond specialist with Aquascape Designs in St. Charles, said the bi-annual home show lets people dream and plan to make their dreams come true in the future. Tom Williamson of The Deck Yard in St. Charles, which shares a booth with Aquascape, said low interest rates on home improvement projects are providing people the perfect time to start some projects.

For Stefanie Barnhart, Saturday’s home show was a way to check out the work of fellow decorative painters. Barnhart said she just moved from Georgia to North Aurora and used the event as a way to network. Barnhart’s sister, Deborah Meyer, joked that she “came for the food.” There were a handful of cooking demos Saturday, offering attendants a sampling of some salsa and smoothies. Meyer was also planning on looking for ideas on how to add to her backyard patio. Their mother, Patrica Smuddle of North Aurora, said she wasn’t sure what home improvements she wanted to make, but was looking forward to browsing.

St. Charles Republican
www.mysuburbanlife.com
February 18, 2009

“Mr. Fix-It to be Part of Home Show at Pheasant Run”
The Old House New House Home Show returns from Friday through Sunday, Feb, 6 to 8, at Pheasant Run Resort, 4051 East Main St., St. Charles. The Mega Center and Ballroom will be filled with 300 displays featuring creative solutions and home improvement innovations. Show hours are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday; and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday.

Headlining the event is “Mr. Fix-It,” Lou Manfredini of WGN radio, appearing at 1 p/m. Sunday. For a printable $1 off admission coupon, visit www.kennedyproductions.com. A portion of ticket proceeds will benefit Habitat for Humanity of Northern Fox Valley.

For more information and a list of exhibitors, visit www.kennedyproductions.com or call (630) 515-1160.

The Daily Herald
www.dailyherald.com
February 2, 2009

“Old House New House Show This Weekend”
The Old House New House Home show will be held Feb. 6-8 in the Mega Center and Ballroom at Pheasant Run Resort, 4051 E. Main St. in St. Charles. There will be 300 displays featuring numerous creative solutions and home improvement innovations. Show hours are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Parking is free. Admission is $7, or $4 for seniors, age 62 and older. Youth under age 18 may attend free. For a printable $1 off admission coupon visit www.kennedyproductions.com A portion of the ticket proceeds will benefit the Habitat for Humanity of Northern Fox Valley.

Headlining this event is “Mr. Fix-It,” Lou Manfredini. Lou’s expertise and enthusiasm will delight homeowners at 1 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 8. From early on, houses and the art of building captivated Lou Manfredini. As a teen, the Chicago-area native went to work at a local hardware store to learn about housing structures, the tools of building and home improvement projects. Later, during high school, he decided to put what he had learned to practical use and began working as a carpenter’s apprentice. Then, in 1987, Manfredini struck out on his own and launched a construction company in Chicago. He not only built and renovated peoples’ homes; he gave people a better understanding of how their houses work.

After 8 successful years in business, Manfredini had gained so much knowledge about homes; he began to consider ways to more broadly share this expertise with others. He believed that a house was more like a living entity than an inanimate collection of lumber, wiring, and plumbing. Manfredini began a media career when WGN AM Radio 720 in Chicago launched his idea for a home improvement call-in radio show in 1995. The show quickly caught on, and today, over ten years later, Ask Mr. Fix-It, is the number one Saturday morning radio program in Chicagoland. Manfredini has been a contributor to the Today Show on NBC for 9 years. He also hosts and produces a syndicated television show called House Smarts. He is also the host of Lou Manfredini’s Home Improvement Minutes heard on over 170 stations across the United States.

With help from the experts at The Old House New House Home Show, homeowners can not only combat cabin fever, but gather fresh ideas to improve every aspect of home living. For more information, a current list of exhibitors or directions to Pheasant Run Resort visit www.kennedyproductions.com or call 630/515-1160.

Daily Herald
January 27, 2008
“For the Love of Landscapes”
By Deborah Donovan

Roger Cook of ‘This Old House’ Gets to the Root of How to Improve Your Home’s Natural Exterior

If you feel like you’re at the starting gate itching to improve your home’s landscaping this spring Roger Cook can serve as coach. Cook, the landscape contractor for “This Old House,” the venerable public television program, will appear Feb. 9 at the The Old House New House Home Show in St. Charles.

Many homeowners enjoy working on their yards because they know it improves their lifestyles and the value of their houses, said Cook, who has been on the television show for 20 years. He loves to inspire do-it-yourselfers, tell them about trends and share advice. Here are a few recommendations he discussed in a recent phone interview.

Lawns

The popularity of sustainable lawns and landscaping is growing. More homeowners want to help the planet by using fewer chemicals and less water. They also want to spend less time working in the yard. Options include replacing some turf grass with more maintenance-free materials and adopting organic lawn care. With organic care, the lawn will not be as attractive for a few years until the soil microorganisms regenerate, Cook said.

Mechanical steps like dethatching and aerating help tremendously, he said. If dandelions raise their ugly heads, Cook recommends spot treating them with an organic weed killer. And be sure to put plants where they will be happy. A shade lover needs much more water if it’s in the sun.

More Lawn

Cook is among those who recommend lawn or turf grass for active sports. “But your whole yard doesn’t have to be lawn” he said. There are areas where it will not thrive.” So don’t plant bluegrass in shady areas. And be sure to prepare the soil properly so roots can grow deep. Your grass probably needs an inch of water a week, so a few inexpensive rain gauges can help prevent over watering. Too much water isn’t good for the grass and is wasteful and expensive.

New tools can help with watering. One shuts off an irrigation system when it rains. Another involves moisture sensors in the ground that can tie to a home computer and call for water when needed.

Smaller Shrubs

Trees planted too near a house can pose problems. “Lots have gotten smaller and houses bigger,” Cook said. No one wants to be out there pruning two or three times a year. Even the slower growing shrubs that are proliferating on the market should be planted so they will always be at least 12 to 18 inches away from the building he said. Otherwise, it will be difficult to get behind the shrub to paint or do other work.

Money

When the new home or major remodeling is completed, there often is not enough money remaining to do the desired landscaping project. While experts recommend spending 10 percent to 15 percent of the cost of the project on landscaping, it doesn’t all have to be installed at once, Cook said.

However, it is important to get a professional designer to create a master plan. If you just stick things in, three or four years later it doesn’t look right,” he said. Landscaping issues include flowering time, color, size, soil and sun exposure, Cook said.

Native Plants

Native plants help save water because they have adapted to local conditions, and once they are established are drought resistant, Cook said. “I think of the natives as the big, strong backbones of the garden that we can decorate around.” He uses rhodendrons and other ornamentals with natives. “The other trick is to look for natives with interesting characteristics—color, flower or something about them that adds to the garden.”

Why Landscaping

Landscaping is popular because everyone wants to pull up to their house and think the front really looks nice and admire the flower beds and lawn, Cook said. Families like to have their youngsters playing in their own yards these days, he said. That’s why there are so many patios, hot tubs, ball courts and fire pits. “The family can go out and have fun activities together,” Cook said.

When there is a big project, Cook recommends renting equipment like a small earth mover. “You want to see a lot of progress in a week or two or you will lose interest quickly,” he said. Many people, no matter what their jobs, enjoy the calming relaxation of working in their yards and gardens, said the contractor. “I’m happiest when I’m out in the mud getting dirty,” Cook said.

Adding Color to Winter

Roger Cook likes trees and shrubs that provide color in the winter or any season other than spring when flowers are plentiful. Here are some of his favorites:

Red-twig dogwood – red branches in winter
Winterberry – red berries in winter
Stewartia – white summer flowers
Heptacodium or Seven-son-flower – white flowers in late summer, followed by showy purple fruit and exfoliating winter bark
Acer griseum or Paperback maple – exfoliating winter bark.

Chicago Tribune
Home & Garden
January 1, 2008
“Attend It”
By Beth Botts

New trends in landscaping will be the topic when Roger Cook, the landscape contractor for the popular PBS TV series “This Old House” and “Ask This Old House,” speaks Feb. 9, at the Old House New House Home Show in St. Charles. The three-day show, which opens Feb. 8, will have some 400 commercial exhibits on remodeling, gardening and construction ideas and products for homeowners. Cook speaks at 12:30 and 3:30 p.m. Feb. 9; Bill Aldrich, publisher of Chicagoland Gardening magazine, will speak on perennial gardening at 12:30 and 3:30 p.m. Feb. 8 and 12:30 p.m. on Feb. 10. Pheasant Run Resort, 4051 E. Main St., St. Charles. Admission: $7; children under 18 free. Call 630-515-1160 or see kennedyproductions.com.

Chicago Tribune
Home & Garden
February 24, 2008
“Design on a Dime Host Waxes Sustainable”
By Shaila Wunderlich

This month’s Old House New House Home Show was bustling with homeowners, contractors and browsers looking for advice and ideas on everything from gutters and gardens to gut renovations. One of the event’s highlights was a “Guide to Going Green” workshop by Brice Cooper, host of HGTV’s “Design on a Dime” (and Elgin resident). Cooper was a human encyclopedia, spouting tips on achieving “obtainable sustainable” faster than attendees could record them in notebooks. Here are some tips:

For new-home builders: Site your home to take advantage of maximum energy efficiency. “Don’t face your biggest wall of windows toward the south,” Cooper says. “It will heat up really fast and take a lot more energy to cool down.”

For roof replacers: Swap black roof tiles for a lighter color to save on cooling costs. “Black roofs generally reflect about 5 percent heat. Gray roofs reflect roughly 15 [percent] to 20 percent,” Cooper says.

For insulation installers: Question insulation suppliers about the R-value of their insulation product. The higher the R-value, the more efficient and green the insulation – and the less taxing to your energy bill.

For carpet buyers: Choose carpets made of recycled materials. One of Cooper’s favorite brands, FLOR, comes in individual “tiles” for easy installation – and easy removal in the event of damage. “This way you’re not throwing the entire carpet into a landfill just because a corner has gotten wet or stained.” (Call 866-281-3567 or see flor.com).

For flooring fanatics: Cork and bamboo are two stylish and sustainable flooring options. Local source Mr. Bamboo, 55 Kelly St. Elk Grove Village, 847-640-7316, mymrbamboo.com, relies exclusively on bamboo to turn out its flooring, countertops and cabinetry.

For counter choices: Reusable quartz is a beautiful option, and bamboo countertops are 100 percent sustainable. Cooper called out quartz counter company Cambria as the only solid-surface source to manufacture in the U.S., thus imprinting a minimal carbon footprint (see cambriausa.com). He also gave a nod to Richlite, a Wisconsin based counter-top maker that uses renewable paper from managed forests to make its counters. Available at Prairie Plus, 509 Madison St., Oak Park, 708-848-4218 or www.soapstonetops.com.

Chicago Sun Times
February 8, 2008
“Roger Cook Headlines Old House New House Show”
By Bill Cunniff

Television personality Roger Cook of “This Old House” will be appearing Saturday at the Old House New House Home Show in St. Charles. Cook wasn’t always a gardening enthusiast “I answered an ad for a landscape laborer. I had never done any landscaping before that job!” he said.

“I like to design things to bring people out into their yard, whether it’s a hot tub, a bluestone patio, or a vegetable garden”, he said. “My own yard is what I call a ‘leftover’ garden. I take plants leftover from my job and plant them at my house.

Cook urges homeowners to consider their yards’ specifics in landscaping. “Know what part is shady and what is sunny, and where you want to provide shade in summer and allow the sun during the winter,” he said.

The most important factors homeowners should consider in planning their yards are how plants grow, and what are the expected sizes at maturity. “When buying plants, they all look cute – but in just a few years they can outgrow the site,” he said.

As for trends, Cook also has some observations. “Plants that are slow-growing and smaller in mature height, as well as plants that use less water to thrive—there are many new varieties that meet these demands. Right plant in the right place,” he said. “Grouping plants with the same needs (sun, water, fertilizer) makes makes it easier for plants to grow and thrive. Soil prep is extremely important. This allows a plant to have a strong root system and require less water.”

Landscape design certainly has changed since Cook started with “This Old House” back in 1982. “It has grown by leaps and bounds,” he said. “First it reflects the growing importance of landscaping in sustaining the earth. Second, there is a definite push to get people out into their yards to enjoy the outdoors.”

Chicago area gardeners realize that funky weather is always a concern. Cook knows about that, too, with the New England climate. “I have always loved New England. The changes in season make gardening a challenge, but also a thrill,” he said.

Here are the plant materials that Cook uses most often: Kousa Dogwood, Stewartia, Acer griseum, Hinoki cypress and clethra ainfolia. The benefits are all-season color, or color during times when other plants aren’t blooming.

Cook’s appearances are scheduled for 12:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.

Goin’ Green

The Chicago Solar Energy Company will provide a portion of the electricity utilized in the expo center this weekend.

HGTV’s home improvement hipster, Brice Cooper will present his “Guide to Going Green” at 2 p.m. each day of the show. Cooper will help homeowners explore eco-friendly building materials, sustainable supplies and green products.

I have switched all my light bulbs to energy-efficient ones in my home. Anything that we do in the right direction is a step we never made before,” said Cooper, who’s based in Elgin.

“Wild About Worms,” an exhibit about vermicomposting, will be exhibited by master gardeners from the University of Illinois Extension.

ReStore by Habitat for Humanity of Northern Fox Valley will provide an opportunity for homeowners to buy and/or donate new and gently used building materials.

Sierra Club River Prairie Group of DuPage will host a native Illinois plant sale for varieties that don’t need fertilizers or constant watering.

Imagine transforming old milk jugs into a chair. The Deck Yard of St. Charles specializes in composite and vinyl furniture and decking.

Other green products at this Home and Garden Expo will include geothermal heating, tankless water heaters, tubular solar skylights, solar-powered attic fans and bamboo cabinetry, countertops and flooring. Energy-efficient appliances and windows, high-efficiency furnaces and air conditioners, wind generators and rainwater reclamation will be shown as well.

The show will be at Pheasant Run Resort, 4051 E. Main Street. About 400 exhibitors will show home improvement products and services. Admission is $7 for adults $4 for seniors (62+) and free for children 17 and under. Parking is free. Hours are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. today and Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday.

“This year, we are adding a third exhibit hall, with 100 additional displays said Laura McNamara of Kennedy Productions, the show’s sponsor. The Old House New House Home Show is presented by Kennedy Productions, (630) 515-1160. A printable coupon is available at www.kennedyproductions.com.

Daily Herald
February 8, 2008
“A Breath of Spring Now”
By Susan Sarkauskas

Home Show Will Feature Gardening for First Time

I’m tired. Tired of having to pull on a parka just to take out the trash. Tired of trying to find room for the snow I shovel off the driveway. Tired of walking through ankle-deep salty slush. I need to know that spring is coming, or better yet, summer. I dream of green growing things of seeing peonies and pansies in my yard and eating homegrown tomatoes on my patio.

Joanne Kennedy of Glen Ellyn understands these dreams. They are on what she’s built the newest addition to the Old House New House Home Show this weekend. The twice-yearly show now in its 21st year at Pheasant Run Resort in St. Charles, has expanded to include a section devoted entirely to outdoor living, with gardens, decks, outdoor kitchens and more.

“I’m a gardener at heart,” said Kennedy of Kennedy Productions, which owns the show. “We knew the timing was right to bring a garden show to the western suburbs.” “Everyone has itchy fingers to get their hands in the ground” said Beth Wall, a show organizer.

Thursday, workers were busy hauling pavers, decking materials, mulch, plants, boulders and more to create outdoorsy spots in the DuPage Expo building. One of the biggest, right at the entrance is the pond garden designed by Aquascape Inc. of St. Charles. Kennedy figures it will stop people in their tracks.

Besides commercial vendors, there are booths for things like the University of Illinois Extension’s worm composting demonstration, advice from the Midwest Pond and Koi Society and representatives from the Sierra Club.

One of the booths is from We Grow Dreams of West Chicago, a nonprofit greenhouse and garden center that provides jobs and job training for people with disabilities. They’ll have plants for sale as well as handcrafted gift items made by the workers.

Roger Cook, the landscape expert from the “This Old House home renovation television show, will speak at 12:30 and 3:30 p.m. Saturday. The radio show “Your House Chicago” will broadcast live at noon Sunday.

Brice Cooper, host of HGTV’s “Design on a Dime,” will speak about kitchens at 11 a.m. and “going green” with eco-friendly materials at 2 p.m. each day.

Bill Aldrich, executive editor of Chicagoland Gardening, will give a presentation on perennial gardening at 12:30 and 3:30 today and 12:30 p.m. Sunday with a representative from Heinz Bros. Greenhouses of St. Charles.

Admission is $7 for adults, $4 for senior citizens and free for children. There will be shuttle service between the DuPage Expo building and the Mega Center and Ballroom at the Pheasant Run’s main campus. A $1 off coupon is available at www.kennedyproductions.com. Show hours are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. today and Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Overall, there are more than 400 exhibitors. “We’re bringing a little bit of spring here and little bit of fresh air to the expo,” said Kennedy.

The Beacon News
February 10, 2008
“Fabulous Turnout for Home Makeover Expo”
By Heather Gillers

Loads of washers. Cutting-edge utensils. Rooms filled with windows and doors. Every kind of home-improvement item was on display at the Pheasant Run Resort, where thousands flocked Saturday, hoping to make their houses look good as new. A cooling market is forcing homeowners with same-old-cabin fever to consider renovating instead of selling, and in the first two days of the show, staff already had counted more than 6,000 visitors. “I think people are kind of staying put and fixing up instead of jumping ship,” said Beth Wall of Lisle-based Kennedy Productions, Inc., the show’s sponsor. “It’s a fabulous, fabulous turnout.”

Inside Pheasant Run, close to 400 vendors hawked wares from silent garage doors to stove-top grills to square after square of granite countertops. West Chicagoans Pete and Debbie Mammoser visited the show to browse and left considering new flooring. Rochelle resident Brenda Andreini was looking for an environmentally friendly way to heat her house when a set of kitchen utensils –“perfect” for her son, caught her eye.

Homeowners from across Chicagoland milled among booths, congregating silently to watch vendors demonstrate the benefits of a knife sharp enough to cut frozen ribs or a rubber broom that sweeps carpet. Mike Czyl brought bacon grease from his Schereville, Ind. home to show potential buyers how it vanished with a few drops of Cabinetta, his company’s surface cleaner.

Genevans Dean and Kathy Showalter for the first time set up a booth for their 24 year old business, KS of Geneva Decorating, after watching customers seeking a new look repeatedly decide to refurbish instead of purchase a home. “They’re looking for the solutions that would give them the look and feel of a new home….and there are a lot of companies here that help them do that,” said Dean Showalter, who himself recently “changed the whole look” of his house and yard with new landscaping. It’s not like throwing a coat of paint over it,” he said. It’s a concept of how do you take what is already there and make it new and in style?

The “Old House New House Home Show” runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. today – its final day – at 4051 E Main Street in St. Charles. Admission is $7, senior admission is $4 and children under 18 are admitted free.

Daily Herald
February 10, 2008
“Habitat for Humanity Joins Home Show”

Habitat for Humanity of Northern Fox Valley’s ReStore in Elgin has a featured booth at this weekend’s annual Old House New House Home Show at Pheasant Run Resort and DuPage Expo Center in St. Charles. ReStore’s exhibit booth, plus a portion of the show’s ticket sales, are being donated to Habitat for Humanity of Northern Fox Valley by Kennedy Productions in Lisle.

“Because thousands of people attend this great event, we have a fantastic opportunity to make people aware of ReStore and what a wonderful resource it is to the community,” said Jeremy Keen, Restore manager. “We’re excited to be featured at the Old House New House Home Show again and are grateful to Kennedy Productions for their generosity and continued support of Habitat’s mission.”

ReStore Elgin, located at 860 N. State St. in Elgin, is a 20,000-square-foot building materials reuse center benefiting Habitat for Humanity of Northern Fox Valley.

Old House New House Home Show is the longest running home show in the Chicago area. This biannual event has grown into a full service, one-stop shopping expo, featuring more than 400 distinguished home enhancement specialists. Displays, including outdoor living exhibits and garden displays at the DuPage Expo Center as well as workshops, attractions and state-of-the-art products, focus on home improvement as well as home life and enjoyment.

The Old House New House Home Show wraps up today from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Pheasant Run, 4051 E. Main St. in St. Charles. Admission is $7 for adults, $4 for seniors or free for children. There is free parking. For details on ReStore, visit www.restoreelgin.org. For information about Old House New House Home Show, visit www.kennedyproductions.com.

Nelson’s Today
January 2008
“Kennedy Show Expands for Spring 2008”

Kennedy Productions has announced the expansion of The Old House New House Home Show held bi-annually at Pheasant Run Resort in St. Charles. The Spring 2008 show slated for February 8, 9, and 10 will also be staged in the newly renovated DuPage Expo Center in addition to the Mega Center and Ballroom exhibit halls.

The additional 23,000 square feet will showcase new exhibits, a speaker’s area and feature gardens created by landscape designers, garden centers and outdoor living specialists. Continuous shuttle service will be provided to transport show attendees between the three exhibit halls.

“The Expo Center allows more room for creativity, and the opportunity to work with 100 more exceptional companies,” says Kennedy president, Joanne Kennedy. “We’ll present more cutting–edge attractions and an even larger assortment of inspiring exhibits.”

This season, several high profile speakers will be presented. Roger Cook, Landscape Contractor from This Old House, will speak on Saturday, Feb. 9. Brice Cooper of HGTV will host workshops “Guide to Going Green” and “Dream Kitchen Design.”

For show details, call (630) 515-1160 or visit www.kennedyproductions.com.

Nelson’s Today
October, 2007
HOME SHOW “The Old House Show Features Hottest Products”

The Old House New House Home Show returns to Pheasant Run Resort in St. Charles on September 28, 29, and 30. With 300 experts on hand, homeowners can explore new trends in building and remodeling, learn about new materials, and peruse creative solutions for home beautification.

Exhibitors include top notch building, remodeling, repair, custom woodworking, closets, garages, flooring, windows, doors and more.

Special Attractions and Workshops are included with admission. At noon each day, see Brice Cooper of HGTV presenting “Dream Kitchen Design.”

At 2 p.m. each day, expert designer Loren Reid Seaman presents “Creating a Home with Style.”

One lucky homeowner will win the home show Grand Prize, a $1,000 home show gift certificate to use with the exhibitor of his/her choice. No purchase is necessary.

See the Kennedy Productions web site for complete contest rules and more information on the show: www.kennedyproductions.com

Chicago Sun Times
February 9, 2007
“St. Charles Show”
By Bill Cunniff

About 300 building and remodeling professionals will showcase home improvement products and services this weekend during the Old House New House Home Show in
St. Charles.

The show will be at the Pheasant Run Resort, 4051 E. Main St. Hours are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $7, $4 for seniors (62 and up) and free for children 18 and under. Parking is free. A portion of the ticket proceeds will be donated to Habitat for Humanity. The show is in its 45th season.

Elgin native Brice Cooper of HGTV will discuss designing concerns. Architect Lenore Baigelman of Full Circle will provide plans for environmentally aware homes at 2 p.m. Saturday. Century Tile’s Pete the Pro will demonstrate how to install tile at 2 p.m. Friday and Sunday.

Several exhibitors will be on hand with organization products. Shelf Conversions will have custom glide-out shelves for kitchen and bathroom cabinets. Others will feature storage solutions for garages, closets, laundry, utility rooms and mudrooms. Royal Treatment of Geneva will present professional organizing and household assistance services.

Kitchen exhibitors will include Cabinet Solutions Design Studio. Home theater ideas will be shown by TES Inc. Home Automation Systems and Nugget Enterprises Inc.

“We are a Runco dealer, and Runco projectors are known to be in the finest home theaters in the world today,” said Gerry Koser, president of TES Inc. in Barrington.

Landscaping displays will feature waterfalls, ponds, brickwork, gazebos, retaining walls, tree care and plantings. Grant and Power of West Chicago, Cypress Group of Winfield and Bernhard and Son Landscaping of St. Charles will be on hand.

Chicago Tribune
February 2007
At Play Ticket Advisor
“Something for all at Trade Shows, Expos”
By Regina Robinson

Old House New House Home Show: 10 a.m. – 7 p.m. on February 9-10 and 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. on February 11; $4-$7, go to kennedyproductions.com for $1 off admission coupon, free for ages under 18. Pheasant Run Resort, 4051 E. Main St. in St. Charles; 630-515-1160.

The Naperville Sun
January 25, 2007
Out & About
“Expos”

Home show: The Old House New House Home Show will take place from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Feb. 9 and 10 and from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Feb. 11 at Pheasant Run Resort, 4051 E. Main St., St. Charles. From gardens to garages and furnishings to furnaces, the show offers products, workshops and services for creating comfortable, stylish and luxurious surroundings. Adult admission is $7, seniors (62 and up) are admitted for $4, and children (under 18) attend free. Parking is free. To assist families in need, a portion of the ticket proceeds will be donated to the Habitat for Humanity. Call 630-515-1160 or visit www.kennedyproductions.com for a printable $1 off admission coupon, a current exhibitor list, the Home Show grand prize contest rules or directions to Pheasant Run.

Midwest Home Chicago Magazine
February 2007
What’s Happening
“Old House New House Home Show Offers Designs for Living”

Make your home a haven at The Old House New House Home Show. This best-in-class event returns February 9-11 for its 45th season at the Pheasant Run Resort. From classic looks to current trends, this home improvement exhibition features more than 300 displays in building, remodeling, landscaping, interior decorating, fresh ideas and design trends. Admission is $7 for adults, $4 for seniors and free for children under 18. Parking is also free.

Sun Publications
September 20, 2006
“Home Show Offers Hottest Tips and Trends in Home Improvements”

Old House New House Home Show Helps Homeowners
Hammer Out Their Dream Home

September 12, 2006 – St. Charles, Illinois

As the weather is cooling down, home improvements are heating up and the best place to gather the hottest trends and tips from the trades is the upcoming 44th season Old House New House Home Show, September 29, 30 and October 1 at Pheasant Run Resort, located at 4051 E. Main St. in St. Charles. With over 300 expert remodelers, builders, designers and suppliers on hand, homeowners can easily nail down solutions for every aspect of home hiving, repair, maintenance and enhancement. Parking is free. Adult admission is $7, seniors (62+) and children under 18 attend free. A portion of the ticket proceeds will benefit Oprah Winfrey’s Angel Network. Show hours are Friday and Saturday from 10 am to 7 pm and Sunday from 10 am to 5 pm. This highly anticipated home show builds excitement by featuring the most up-to-date innovations and cutting-edge solutions, giving homeowners a great foundation for their home improvement plans.

Green Living The Old House New House Home Show makes it easy for homeowners to attain more eco-conscious home living. Recycle in style with first time exhibitor, IHM Remodeling of Downers Grove. This company creates in-home recycling spaces for homeowners to conveniently sort and store recyclables. Other popular green products at this event will include geothermal heating and air conditioning tankless water heaters, bamboo flooring, tubular skylights and solar powered attic fans. Energy efficient appliances, windows, furnaces and air conditioners will be displayed as well as air duct sealing by Aeroseal/Nicor.

Room Makeovers Interior Stylist, Julea Joseph will share secrets on how to give rooms a fresh new look in her re-design workshop at 2:00 each day. In addition, well-known interior designers, Laura Gwyn of Geneva and Loren Reid Seaman of Lake Zurich will also be on hand with the latest looks for smart and classic homes.

Great Garages Garage upgrades are a popular project on the home front. Floor coating systems and do-it-yourself garage organizers will be featured. Homewood Tech of Glen Ellyn will offer high end cabinetry for the garage. First time exhibitor, Imagine Storage Solutions of Barrington, will introduce storage systems for garages, utility rooms and laundry rooms. Consolidated Garage Doors of Batavia will present garage doors and openers.

Creature Comforts Fall is the fireplace season and Early Times of Lombard and The Chimney Department of St. Charles will both offer chimney sweep services. For homeowners looking to create the “spa at home” bathroom, Hummingbird of Glen Ellyn will feature a Soapstone warming bench. Back to Bed will present its Memory Foam specialty beds and show guests can also try out the Sleep Number beds by Select Comfort. Several exhibitors will feature sophisticated audio/video equipment and cutting-edge home theater systems.

Three lucky attendees will each win the “Grand Prize” a $1000 home show gift certificate to use towards their next home improvement project. Other attractions will include the D-I-Y stage with tile workshops by JC Licht/Benjamin Moore. Little builders can meet “Bob D Builder” on Saturday and Sunday from noon to 2:00. Oberweis Dairy and Trader Joe’s will share free samples of their taste treats throughout the weekend.

Visit the Old House New House web site at www.kennedyproductions.com for a complete list of participants, the workshop schedule, directions to Pheasant Run, and a printable $1 off admission coupon. For more information call 630/515-1160.

Kane County Chronicle
Sunday, February 4, 2006
“Seeking Some New Ideas For Old Spaces”
By Nick Swedberg

Nancy and Jerry Veltman want to make a few cosmetic changes to their home. So when they visited the Old House New House® Home Show on Friday at the Pheasant Run Resort, they expected to see a few things that would catch their eyes. “There will be one or two or three things that will be something we’ve never seen before.” said Jerry Veltman, 60, of South Holland. About 250 vendors will peddle their wares through Sunday to hundreds fo people seeking information to remodel their homes and add features to a new home, said Joanne Kennedy, president of the company putting on the show, Kennedy Productions, Inc. While consumers seek ways to improve their home, vendors look at the show as a significant opportunity to meet potential customers. “About 75 percent of our lead generation deals with these shows.” said Curtis Allison of Streamwood-based Pools and Saunas To Go. He said he does more than 50 shows a year, and the Pheasant Run show is one of his biggest. Allison and another worker had set up bubbling hot tubs and handed out leis to draw attention from customers. In addition to luxury items, vendors displayed everyday home improvement options, such as landscaping, cleaning supplies and rain gutter systems. For a more high-tech addition, PC Arcade has home arcade games with built-in computers. Most any computer game available can be installed on the arcade’s hard drive and played with a large joystick and button set, said Jason Camberis, a representative of PC Arcade. He said he looks at the home show as a key place to showcase his arcade toys. “It’s the best way to reach the most clientele,” Camberis said. In addition to vendors and cooking utensil demonstrations, spectators have a chance to win prizes. This year’s celebrity guest, Kathy O’Malley of WGN-AM 720, will share her secrets to successful gardening in “A Girlfriend’s Guide to Gardening” at 1 p.m. Sunday. Also, the home show will give away three $1,000 home show gift certificates. The gift certificates will be redeemable for products and services provided by an exhibitor of the winner’s choice. The $1,000 gift certificates are new this year to the show, which began nearly 20 years ago. “We’ve been here with the show since they opened the [convention center] in 1987,” Kennedy said.

Chicago Tribune / Home & Garden Section
Sunday, January 29, 2006
“Home Improvements”
Compiled by Marjorie David and Tran Ha

Get innovative solutions for every aspect of home life at The Old House New House® Home Show. New workshops include energy-saving tips from experts and how to install tile and choose countertops. 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Feb 5. Pheasant Run Resort, 4051 E. Main St., St. Charles. $7; seniors $4, children under 18 free. 630-515-1160.

Daily Herald
Wednesday, October 5, 2005
“Home Show Helps Transform Outdated Homes From Drab to Fab”

If your home could talk would it say, “Welcome” or “Welcome to the 1970’s?” The Old House New House® Home Show can help when home sweet home isn’t looking so sweet anymore. Now in its 42nd season, this best-in-class event returns to the lovely Pheasant Run Resort, 4051 E. Main St. (Rt. 64/North Ave.) in St. Charles, October 7, 8 and 9 with over 250 quality home improvement professionals, thousands of fresh ideas, cutting edge products, time-saving services and countless creative solutions. Show hours are Friday and Saturday 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Adult admission is $7; seniors (age 62 and up) are admitted free, and children (under 18) attend free. Parking is free. A portion of the ticket proceeds will benefit the American Red Cross Hurricane Katrina Disaster Relief Fund.

Homeowners need not be “dazed and confused” when it comes to updating, remodeling or renovating a home. The Old House New House Home Show makes it easy and enjoyable to surround yourself with style and discover your dream home. Go from groovy to gorgeous with the abundant resources available at the expo. Wake up a tired, outdated home and spruce up your surroundings before the holidays…and before avacado green appliances, doorway beads and shag carpeting come back in style.

Exciting workshops are included in the cost of admission and offer even more solutions to help rescue a retro home. Accomplished interior designer, Loren Reid Seaman, ASID will present “Color Trends” at noon each day to help homeowners see which colors are in style, learn about color connotations and discover ways to choose a complimentary color palette for the home. HGTV’s Jim Parks and a panel of counter top experts will host “Counter Intelligence – Choosing Countertops Wisely” at 2 p.m. each day. Homeowners looking to update or replace kitchen countertops can take the mystery out of selecting countertops with this helpful workshop. Dig up interesting tips to make your garden delightful in “Bulb Gardening Basics and Beyond” with esteemed horticulturist Barbara Bridges of Sid’s Nursery at 1 p.m. Sunday only. Bulb workshop attendees will receive a free starter pack of bulbs compliments of Chicagoland Gardening Magazine. Celebrity guest, Lou Manfredini, “Mr. Fix-It” of WGN radio will appear on Saturday from 1-3 p.m., sponsored by Aeroseal. Lou will offer his expert advice and share the latest tips and trends in remodeling and repair.

Bring your home back to the future with a little help from the experts at The Old House New House Home Show. For a current list of exhibitors, directions to Pheasant Run or a printable $1 off admission coupon visit www.kennedyproductions.com or call (630) 515-1160 for more information.

Chicago Tribune / Home & Garden Section
Sunday, October 2, 2005
“Home Show”
Compiled by Beth Botts and Mary Daniels

See the latest in kitchens, baths, marble, granite, appliances, interior design and more at The Old House New House Home Show. Lou Manfredini, WGN’s “Mr. Fix-It,” will appear 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday. 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday Oct. 9. Pheasant Run, 4051 E. Main St., St. Charles. $7 adults, children and seniors free. 630-515-1160.

Sun Publications
October 7-13, 2005
“Five Things To Do”

Old House New House Home Show: Get ideas for sprucing up your own home at this popular show from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Oct. 7 and 8 and 11 a.m to 5 p.m. Oct. 9 at Pheasant Run Resort, 4051 E. Main St. in St. Charles. For an exhibitor list, directions or a printable $1 off admission coupon, visit www.kennedyproductions.com or call (630) 515-1160. How much? $7 for adults, free for seniors (62 and up) and children (under 18). Free parking.

Chicago Sun Times – Homelife Section
Friday, October 7, 2005
OLD HOUSE/NEW HOUSE
By Bill Cunniff – Real Estate Reporter

The latest in kitchens, baths, remodeling, windows, doors and floors will be presented this weekend during the Old House/New House show in St. Charles.

“The Old House/New House Show helps owners renovate and refresh their tired, old or outdated homes — with fresh ideas and style,” said Joanne Kennedy of Kennedy Productions Inc., the sponsor of the show. She recommends show-goers bring photos or sketches for expert advice on all types of home improvement questions.

The show will be at Pheasant Run Resort, 4051 E. Main St. Hours are 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. today and Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $7 for adults, and free for children and seniors (62 and up). Parking is free.

Old House/New House Home Show. Kennedy Productions, (630) 515-1160, www.kennedyproductions.com.

Daily Herald
Sunday, February 6, 2005
“Things to Do”
By Arlene Arends

Home Show: From custom kitchens to showcase bathrooms, security systems, home theaters, roofs, windows and doors, you’ll find information at The Old House New House® Home Show. The annual home show, which ends today, offers seminars and displays for finding contractors, architects and designers for your building plans. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Pheasant Run Resort, 4051 E. Main St., St. Charles. Admission is $7 for adults, $4 for seniors 62 and older, free for children 17 and younger. Parking is free. Find information at (630) 515-1160 and www.kennedyproductions.com.

Sun Publications
February, 2005
“Sprucing Up. Home Show a Shopping Mall of New Ideas, Products; Here Are a Few”
By Jim Edwards

This year’s edition of the annual Old House New House® Home Show, held recently at the Pheasant Run Resort in St. Charles, featured more than 300 vendors and even daily workshops on trends in landscaping and design secrets.

On hand were dealers offering the latest gadgets, home improvement products and services to make the old “home sweet home” a whole lot sweeter.

Among the dealers were those offering the “ultimate” gutters that promised more than just water coming down the downspouts, high-tech hot water heaters that are tank-free, at least a dozen landscape firms displaying how to transform your outdoor spaces into copies of the gardens at Versailles, and at least as many kitchen counter/cabinet make-overs.

Tucked into spaces between all the big-budget sellers were dealers offering goods and services that when purchased do not promise to make over your whole lifestyle but offer neat and desirable “stuff.”

One such dealer was offering a way to finish off your basement into new found space. Their solution, while not inexpensive, is cheaper than adding a room onto your house.

Chicago Tribune
Sunday, January 30, 2005
“Home & Garden Events”
By Angela Pindel and Laurie Grano

“The Old House New House® Home Show,” with more than 300 home improvement exhibitors – including architects, designers and contractors showcasing the latest in kitchens, baths, flooring, furniture, interior design, landscaping and more – opens at Pheasant Run Resort, 4051 E. Main St., St. Charles. Workshops and seminars will be offered throughout the weekend. Through Feb. 6. Cost: $7, $4 seniors age 62 and older, free ages 17 and younger. Hours: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Feb. 6. Call: 630-515-1160 or see www.kennedyproductions.com.

Kane County Chronicle
Wednesday, February 4, 2004
“Old House New House Might Spur Projects”
By Paul Rock

Need some help remodeling that kitchen? Is that pond in the backyard giving you headaches? Answers to these and other pressing home improvement questions likely can be found at the home show this weekend at the Pheasant Run Resort and Megacenter. Organizers expect the Old House New House® Home Show, featuring 250 exhibitors and several workshops, to draw 10,000 visitors in search of solutions for the home. “It’s a great place to come and get some ideas,” said Laura McNamara, event coordinator for Kennedy Productions, which is sponsoring the three-day convention. “A lot of people this time of year are maxing out on cabin fever, and it’s a nice change of pace from looking at the same four walls.” Businesses will present the latest products for landscaping, pools, gazebos, brick paving, patios, kitchens, bathrooms and interior design. With many of the exhibitors in business in the area, the convention can be an opportunity for homeowners to hire a contractor to do the work on the spot, McNamara said. In addition to the presenters on display, guest speakers will host workshops dedicated to kitchen design, gardening ideas and the latest trends. The convention in the past has proved to provide a healthy boost to business, said Emily Mohney, a landscape designer for Bernhart and Son Landscaping of St. Charles. The company has had a booth at the show for the last four or five years. “It is absolutely worthwile for us,” Mohney said. “We get about 100 people to fill in cards each year, and those are people we give a call to. It seems like after the home show, people want to get signed up so they can get it taken care of in the spring.” Mohney said that while backyard decks have faded in popularity, pavers, ponds and fire pits are in high demand. Pavers, which can be used on patios, driveways and sidewalks, are becoming more popular because while they are more expensive than decks, they require less maintenance, Mohney said. Tom Dredge, owner of Board Room Designs of Batavia, said the Old House New House® Home Show provides valuable name recognition to his custom carpentry and woodworking company. Dredge specializes in building wood trim, bars and bookcases, but also does construction management. “It’s a great way to get your name out there,” said Dredge, who has made seven appearances at Old House New House. “They put together a great show.”

The Sun
Wednesday, October 8, 2003
“Thousands Flock To St. Charles Home Show”
By Jennifer Holstead

Joanne Kennedy got in on the ground floor, literally. The first year that Pheasant Run Resort in St. Charles opened, Kennedy was there with her home show. Kennedy Productions now stages a home improvement convention, called The Old House New House® Home Show, twice a year and the event has taken off in popularity since its inception in 1984. “It was so successful and it has just been growing every year,” said Kennedy, who puts on the show with the help of her daughters Laura and Beth. “We started with 30 vendors, and now we have 300 at this show.” Those 300 vendors drew about 10,000 visitors during the three-day event that concluded Sunday. Exhibits ranged from simple window and door replacements to extravagant custom kitchens. Jim Jr. and Heidi Keller brought their company, Keller Kitchen and Bath, back to the show for the sixth year. With a sample of many of their products, the Kellers were able to meet with future and current customers. The small business specializes in custom-built kitchens and bathrooms for both remodeling and new construction. Hal and Sue Hutter of St. Charles are working with Jim Keller Jr. on a unique room addition for their new kitchen. The Hutters joked with Keller as they reviewed the blueprints. “The design time is usually two or three months, but we’ve been working on this one for about a year,” Keller said. New technologies also were present at the home show, such as spray-on siding and a battery back up for sump pumps.

Chicago Sun Times
Friday, February 1, 2002
“Giant Home Show Set For This Weekend In St. Charles”
By Bill Cunniff

More than 400 exhibitors will display home enhancements-including kitchens, baths and theaters-this weekend during the Old House New House® Home Show in St. Charles. The displays also include appliances, sun rooms, landscaping, windows, doors, floors, patios and heating and cooling. “Since 1984, the Old House New House® Home Show has grown bigger and better each year,” said Laura McNamara of Kennedy Productions, the producer. “This event is once again expanding, making it the largest consumer home show in the Chicago area.” The show will be at the Pheasant Run Mega Center, 4051 E. Main St. Hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. today, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $7 for adults, $4 for seniors and free for children. Parking is free. This expanded show, more than 33,000 square feet, now encompasses the Mega Center, the Ballroom and the Pavilion. Shuttle buses will run continually throughout the weekend to all three exhibit halls.

Chicago Tribune
Tuesday, January 30, 2001
“Home Show Builds On Its Successes”
By Lynn Van Matre

When Naperville appliance store owner Lisa Wehrli decided to rent booth space for the first time at a home improvement show last year, she began by doing comparative shopping. “I started researching and visiting home shows, looking for the best one for us,” said Wehrli, who eventually chose to exhibit Wehrli Home Appliances’ cutting-edge kitchen fittings at the biannual Old House New House® Home Show at Pheasant Run Mega Center in St. Charles. “I wanted a show with a good reputation and lots of positive energy, but at some home shows that feeling of energy was hard to find. The exhibitors at the Old House show seemed outgoing and fun, and there was so much there for people to see.” The decision paid off.

According to Wehrli, the store’s kitchen displays and cooking demonstrations at last February’s Old House New House® Home Show generated roughly $30,000 in business at the Naperville shop. A repeat appearance at the October Old House show led to another $30,000 in sales of stainless steel ranges, dishwashers disguised as cabinetry and other up scale appliances.