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Welcome to Tri-Cities Central, a twice-weekly newsletter highlighting local happenings in Batavia, Geneva, St. Charles and surrounding communities.

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Healing Gardens, a two-acre expanse of woodland and perennial gardens at Stone Hill Farm off Dean Street in Saint Charles, will host its next scheduled opening to the public on Sunday, July 12, from 11AM-4PM.

This month’s event also features a book signing of “Nature: Alive, Awake and Knowing - A Year of Insight and Healing” by Deborah Marqui during the same time period.

The mosquito-free gardens open on set dates for the purpose of enjoying the natural wooded setting and perennial gardens. The admission cost is $5 per person and $10 per family. Call for discounted group rates.

In solidarity and to honor the journey, cancer survivors get free admission. Donations of time or money for upkeep are welcome. Healing Gardens is cultivated and hosted by Deborah Marqui owner of Stone Hill Farm with her husband Buzz Marqui.

Yoga in the Gardens

On July 12 from 1-2PM, join certified yoga teacher Ildiko Puskas as she leads a gentle and nurturing yoga practice in the Healing Gardens. The classes are for all levels.

Please bring a mat, bottled water and any other props that bring you comfort. Wear layers and dress for the weather. For more information about the yoga class, call Ildiko at 847-924-9342.

Your class fee ($25) also offers you admission to enjoy the grounds both before and after class. Learn more here.

TO REGISTER: Please TEXT (preferred) or call Deb Marqui at 630-740-2597.

Additional visiting options

For the 2026 season, in addition to the scheduled Sunday openings, Healing Gardens will be available for individuals and groups to visit anytime.

Please text (preferable) 630-740-2597 or call (leave a message) to make arrangements for your visit. (There is no charge for individual visits but donations are appreciated).

The story behind the space

Ms. Marqui is cancer-free from breast cancer since 2002, and experienced remission from non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma since 1996. However, in 2023 Deborah received a diagnosis that there was a recurrence of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma.

Though this certainly changes the landscape of this season in her life, Deborah’s passion for the gardens remains steadfast. Her mission: to provide a safe, quiet place to experience the Sacred through wooded paths and perennial gardens. The Healing Gardens welcomes all, honoring each person’s faith tradition. Deborah is passionate about continuing to offer the healing benefits of nature to others, as she herself continues her healing journey in the gardens.

Visiting individuals or small groups are welcome to do as they please. No activity is required or requested. Stone Hill Farm has been the home of Buzz and Deb Marqui since 1972, raising four children.

Cut your own summer bouquet on July 12

Guests have a chance to pick their own summer bouquet on the second Sunday of every month from July through October at the Healing Gardens.

Cut your own vibrant summer flowers for a small donation to the garden upkeep fund. Jars and scissors will be provided.

Healing Gardens is located at 37W249 Dean Street, St. Charles. More info at healinggardensatstonehillfarm.com.

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