Glancer Magazine, August 2025 : simplebooklet.com

CELEBRATING BEST IN LOCAL We’re excited to unveil the Best in Local 2025 Readers’ Choice Issue! Inside, you’ll find the results of your votes, celebrating winners across 50 categories in DuPage, Kane & Kendall. These local heroes represent the businesses, services, and treasures that make our community shine. We’re also thrilled to introduce 7 Spectacular New Restaurants to Love, a feature dedicated to culinary gems you won’t want to miss. Prepare to savor some mouthwatering discoveries! As we mark 20 years together, we’re taking a look at 10 Trends in Celebrating 20 Years, a vibrant tribute to how far we've come and the joyous ways we continue to connect. It’s been an honor to grow alongside you and share these memories. Of course, this issue wouldn’t be complete without your monthly favorites—our signature blend of local recommendations, time-less features, and stories that inspire. Thank you for being the heart of everything we do. We couldn’t celebrate the best in local without you. Here’s to another year of cele-brating this wonderful place we call home! Lindy Kleivo Founding Publisher Area Director, Western Suburbs lkleivo@glancermagazine.com AUGUST 2025TABLE OF CONTENTSPUBLISHER Glancer Magazine, Inc. AREA DIRECTOR Lindy Kleivo Sales & Marketing / Chicago West EDITORIAL Kristen Kucharski Associate Editor / Writer Mindy Kyle Writer Features Writer PHOTOGRAPHY Mike Catuara Event Photographer Ruta Drulia Event + Feature Photographer C O N T A C T U S EDITORIAL Press Releases, Local News & Events editorial@glancermagazine.com ADVERTISING Digital Advertising + Local Marketing advertising@glancermagazine.com SUBSCRIPTIONS Monthly Download + Daily Digital www.glancermagazine.comGlancer Magazine CHICAGO WEST August 2025 Vol 20, Issue 8 • Chicago West Glancer® is produced by Glancer® Magazine, Inc., a privately owned and operated corporation located in Sugar Grove, Illinois You’ve Been Glanced® and the Glancer® logo are registered trade-marks of Glancer Magazine, Inc. Magazine reproduction in whole or in part is strictly prohibited. All Rights Reserved Copyright 2025-Glancer® Magazine AAUUGGUUSSTT 22002255®5 Hello From Glancer Magazine 7 5 Things to Do 8 10 Trends: Celebratinmg 20 Years! 11 Cover Feature: Best in Local 2025 22 Welcome In: The Story of Casey’s Foods 26 On Stage: Harry Potter, Lion King, BrightSide 29 Beautifully Women-Owned: Crystal Krueger 32 Trendy Traveler: Cala de Mar Resort & Spa 34 Introducing Northwoods of Naperville 36 Mom’s Little Black Book: BOJ-E-BIKES 38 Literary Local: Taylor Tomlinson 40 Chicago Style: CityCruises Chicago LIVE 42 Real Estate Spotlight: Meet Ewelina Rafael 43 Shop Gallery: Local Boutiques to Love 50 Dining+Cocktails: GIA Mia’s Newest Location 52 Salon 21 in Wheaton Celebrates 40 Years 54 Community Living 67 Wedding Bliss 2025 70 Real Estate Spotlight: The Ville Team 71 Home Local: Your Guide to All Things Home 72 Million Dollar Listing: Waterfront in Plainfield 78 College Time: Aptitude Testing Can Help 80 Kid Stuff: So Much to Celebrate in June 82 7 Spectacular: Mid-Summer Local EventsGlancer Magazine • JULY 2025 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 5

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4. Complimentary Wine Tasting OAK + BEAN INVITES YOU IN Held the Second Wednesday of Each Month OSWEGO– Join us for our Complimentary Wine Tasting every second Wednesday of the month! This Specialty Coffee and Wine Bar fea-tues a variety of sand-wiches and small plates. You’ll love it! 100 W Wash-ington St, Oswego www.oakandbeanco.com Glancer Magazine • AUGUST 2025 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 7AUGUST 20255 Things to Do3. Naper Nights AUGUST 15 & 16 NAPERVILLE–Don’t miss the last concert of Naper Nights 2025. August 15, enjoy Wide-spread Panic, Grateful Dead, & Phish Tribute, Bears Gone Phishin'. On Saturday, rock out to String Cheese Incident Tribut, and more. This will be fun! www.napernights.org2. Night Strike at Lucky Strike BOWLING FUN FOR EVERYONE NAPERVILLE–Lucky Strike Naperville is NOW open at 1515 Aurora Ave. Offering 40 premium bowling lanes, an arcade, billiards, laser tag, a full-service sports bar and pri-vate event spaces with free Wi‑Fi and wheelchair access. Perfect for families, groups or date nights—book your lane today! Check out the specials today. www.luckystrikeent.com/location/lucky-strike-naperville/specials 5. Last Fling CELEBRATING 60 YEARS! Aug 29-Sep 1 NAPERVILLE–This FREE family-friendly festi-val is a fun way to say farewell to summer. Visit the Business Expo, Beer Garden, Food Vendors, Jackson Avenue Stage and Family Fun Zone! The Carnival area is open all week-end long; with exclusive access Special Needs Day on Sunday morning. The 2025 Labor Day Parade kicks off Monday at 10amfollowed by a Veterans’ Appreciation Lunch in the Sponsors’ Tent. www.lastfling.org1. Umbrella Sky ELMHURST CITY CENTRE ELMHURST–Such a uniquely beautirul display! Session 2 is officially open! Umbrella Sky: Schiller & York Streets Metallic Dots: 254 North York Street Shiny Color Rain: 10 South Cottage Hill. These beautiful install- ations will be on display through mid September. www.elmhurstcitycentre.com

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10TRENDSTrends in Celebrating 20 Years Here’s What’s Trending– As we celebrate our 20th Anniversary we wanted to shre fun ideas for our readers to also celebrate their special occasions locally. The western suburbs of Chicago are buzzing with creative anniversary trends this August 2025. From nostalgic “Legacy Rewind” dinner parties in Naperville to intimate sunset cere-monies in Oswego, these local gems offer unique ways to honor your journey. Whether you’re into storytelling circles, custom cocktails, or glamorous dance parties, this listicle highlights 10 unforgettable ideas to make your 20+ year milestone truly magical. Let’s dive in!#1 | “Legacy Rewind” Dinner Parties NAPERVILLE–Hosting a private chef or catered dinner that walks guests through the decades with courses themed to each era — for example: 2000s appetizer (comfort food); 2010s main (modern fusion), 2020s dessert (interactive plating). Adding music, décor, and photos from each era. Effortless Events in Naperville offers tailored décor, timeline planning, storytelling design, and can execute immersive themes like “legacy re-wind” dinners, then‑and‑now exhibits, and custom cocktail stations. 10 TRENDS8 • WESTERN SUBURBS • AUGUST 2025 • Glancer Magazine

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#2 | Sunset Ceremonies OSWEGO–Celebrate 20 years of marriage with a golden-hour vow re-newal at Venue 5126. This elegant barn on 7 scenic acres offers sun-set ceremonies, fire-lit patios, and tented dining under the stars. Enjoy dreamy spaces, luxe suites, and personalized touches that make your love story shine all over again. #3 | Destination Micro-Retreats ST. CHARLES–Instead of a big bash, celebrate with a close group (2–10 people) on a 2–3 day retreat. Popular 2025 destinations include boutique wine country villas; Michigan or Wisconsin lakehouses with private chefs; or Yoga retreats. Hotel Baker in St. Charles is nestled along the Fox River, this historic gem offers timeless elegance, riverside dining, and lux-urious rooms—perfect for reconnecting and reminiscing. #4 | Custom Cocktail & Mocktail Bars WHEATON–Turn your favorite memories into one-of-a-kind cocktails. Neigh & Nosh’s charming vintage mobile bar sets the stage, offering per-sonalized drink menus that reflect your journey together. Elevate the ex-perience with dry ice fog, color-changing elements, floating flower garnishes, or engraved drinkware favors. Think playful, nostalgic, and ele-gant: "Cancun Honeymoon Mojito" – a beachy nod to your first getaway; "First Home Old Fashioned" – smooth and classic, just like your founda-tion; "Soccer Saturdays Sangria" – a fruity favorite inspired by family game days; "Empty Nest Espresso Martini" – bold, bittersweet, and full of flavor. #5 | Mini Documentary Viewing Party DOWNERS GROVE–Celebrate your anniversary in cinematic style with a red carpet mini documentary premiere at the Tivoli Theatre. Relive 20 years of love through a custom 10–20 minute film by Classic Media Pro-ductions, Inc. featuring interviews and voiceovers—complete with pop-corn, champagne, and keepsake ticket stubs for a truly unforgettable night on the big screen. #6 | Recommitment Ceremonies GENEVA–Recommit to love in unforgettable style—whether at Geneva’s serene Fabyan Japanese Garden for a private, elopement-style ceremony or atop a mountain, on a boat deck, or in sweeping desert dunes. These adventure-inspired vow renewals honor your journey with intention, inti-macy, and a breathtaking backdrop that tells your story anew. #7 | Storytelling Circles NAPERVILLE–Celebrate your anniversary with “Storytelling Circles” at Naperville’s scenic Knoch Knolls Nature Center. Gather around the fire for s’mores as loved ones pass a talking stick, sharing heartfelt stories, laughs, and toasts from the past 20 years. An intimate, nature-filled even-ing rooted in connection, reflection, and memories that matter. #8 | Day Spa DOWNERS GROVE–Enjoy blissful relaxation at Simply Beautiful Day Spa in Downers Grove. Unwind together with soothing massages, facials, and rejuvenating salt therapy in a tranquil, intimate setting. A serene escape designed to refresh your body and soul—because every love story de-serves a day of pure indulgence. #9 | “Glam Nostalgia” Dance Parties GLEN ELLYN–Throw a “Glam Nostalgia” Dance Party at Fred Astaire Dance Studio in Glen Ellyn! Celebrate your anniversary with flip phone photo booths, neon fashion, glow-in-the-dark décor, and a DJ spinning the best 1990s–2010s remixes. A throwback night of glitz, grooves, and unfor-gettable moves with your favorite people. #10 | Gourmet Dinner Party BATAVIA–Celebrate your anniversary at home with a chef-prepared gour-met dinner by Chef Rich Mancini of Chef’s Most Wanted Catering. Featur-ing his renowned Revelry 675 venue at 675 River St., he delivers exceptional cuisine and impeccable service right to your kitchen—crafting a personalized, intimate, and unforgettable 20-year celebration. Glancer Magazine • JULY 2025 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 910 TRENDSGlancer Magazine • AUGUST 2025 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 9

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ART FESTIVALS DUPAGE Downers Grove Fine Arts Festival, Downers Grove KANE St. Charles Fine Art Show, St. Charles KENDALL N/A MUSEUMS DUPAGE DuPage Children’s Museum, Naperville KANE Blackberry Farm, Aurora KENDALL Little White School House, Oswego CREATIVE STUDIO DUPAGE Pinot’s Palette, Naperville KANE Water Street Studios, Batavia KENDALL Board & Brush, Oswego ARTISAN MARKET DUPAGE Wheaton French Market, Wheaton KANE Geneva French Market, Geneva KENDALL Oswego Country Market, Oswego PERFORMING ARTS THEATER DUPAGE Brightside Theatre, Naperville KANE Paramount Theatre, Aurora KENDALL YPAC, Yorkville arts and entertainmentPinot’s Palette NapervilleDuPage Children’s Museum12 • WESTERN SUBURBS • AUGUST 2025 • Glancer Magazine

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FULL SERVICE SALONS DUPAGE Company Bliss Naperville KANE Zazu Salon, Geneva KENDALL Stephen Alan Salon, Yorkville FULLS SERVICE SPAS DUPAGE Elegante Salon & Day Spa, Naperville KANE The Spa at The Herrington Inn, Geneva KENDALL Elase Med Spa, Yorkville ANTI-AGING SPA DUPAGE Simply Beautiful Spa, Downers Grove KANE Simply Crystal Electrolysis & Skin Care, St. Charles KENDALL Infinity Designs Beauty Bar, Oswego COSMETIC DENTISTRY DUPAGE Aesthetica Dentistry, Naperville KANE Hamilton House Dentistry, Geneva KENDALL Valley View Dental, Montgomery beauful youCOSMETIC SURGERY CENTER DUPAGE Chicago Institute of Plastic Surgery, Oak Brook KANE Concierge Aesthetics and Plastic Surgery, Geneva KENDALL Premiere Dermatology, OswegoElase Med SpaElegante Salon & Day SpaGlancer Magazine • AUGUST 2025 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 13

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16 • WESTERN SUBURBS • AUGUST 2025 • Glancer Magazine HOLISTIC WELLNESS CENTER DUPAGE Radiant Life Holistic Wellness Center, Naperville KANE Sage Healing Collective, St. Charles KENDALL Sacred Journey Wellness, Oswego FAMILY FITNESS FACILITY DUPAGE Fort Hill Fitness Center, Naperville KANE Vaughan Athletic Center, Aurora KENDALL Fox Valley Family YMCA, Plano YOGA STUDIO DUPAGE Yoga by Degrees, Wheaton KANE Prana Yoga Center, Geneva KENDALL Sense of Samadhi, Yorkville FAMILY DENTIST DUPAGE Naperville Family Dentistry, Naperville KANE McCall Family Dentistry, Geneva KENDALL Yorkville Family Dental, Yorkville MENTAL HEALTH PROVIDER DUPAGE Advanced Behavioral Health, Naperville KANE Journey to Present, Geneva KENDALL Family Counseling Service, Oswego health and weneMcCall Family DentistryPrana Yoga Center

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REAL ESTATE GROUP DUPAGE Coldwell Banker, Naperville KANE Baird and Warner Fox Valley, Geneva KENDALL john greene Realtor, oswego HOME BUILDER DUPAGE Overstreet Builders, Naperville KANE Keim Corp, Geneva KENDALL Charles James Custom Homes, Yorkville LANDSCAPE DESIGNER DUPAGE Western DuPage Landscaping, Naperville KANE Tanna Landscape Services, Geneva KENDALL Blue Hills Landscape & Design, Oswego EXTERIOR ENHANCEMENT DUPAGE Opal Exteriors, Naperville KANE M & M Home Remodeling, St. Charles KENDALL Powell & Sons, OswegoINTERIOR DESIGNER DUPAGE TKS Interior Design & Remodeling, Glen Ellyn KANE Haven Interiors Studio, Geneva KENDALL Essex House Interior, Yorkville home and gardenWestern DuPage LandscapingBaird & Warner Fox Valley18 • WESTERN SUBURBS • AUGUST 2025 • Glancer Magazine

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MULTI-VENDOR MARKETPLACE DUPAGE The Rustic Fox, North Aurora/Carol Stream KANE Trend + Relic, St. Charles KENDALL Hudson House, Oswego EVERYDAY APPAREL SHOP DUPAGE Karisma, Naperville KANE Swish Avenue, Geneva KENDALL Bella-Gia Boutique, Oswego CANDY + CONFECTIONERY SHOP DUPAGE Naper Nuts and Sweets, Naperville KANE All Chocolate Kitchen, Geneva KENDALL The Chocolate Shoppe, Plano FOOD & WINE SHOP DUPAGE Tasting Divine, Naperville KANE The Wine Exchange, Geneva KENDALL Fox Valley Winery, OswegoON TREND ACCESSORY SHOP DUPAGE Jeans and a Cute Top Shop, Wheaton KANE House of 423, Batavia KENDALL Melissa Jean Boutique, Oswego shops and bouquestrend+relicSwish Boutique20 • WESTERN SUBURBS • AUGUST 2025 • Glancer Magazine

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Glancer Magazine • AUGUST 2025 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 23Photos by Ruta DruliaCOMMUNITY LIVINGWelcome to Casey’s Foods NAPERVILLE–Walk into Casey’s Foods today and you’ll dis-cover a store that’s thoughtfully designed for the pace and pri-orities of today’s families. Whether you're a busy parent seeking healthy, ready-to-cook meals or a working profes-sional needing quick, quality options, Casey’s has you cov-ered. From expertly curated sheet pan dinners to grill-ready k-bobs and seasoned stuffed chicken breasts, every offering is tailored to help modern households put delicious meals on the table—without the stress. But Casey’s isn’t just evolving—it’s innovating. The store’s user-friendly online shopping and curbside pickup services are powered not by an algorithm, but by real Casey’s team members who thoughtfully select every item on your list. Their dedicated staff—many of whom have been with the store for decades—take pride in knowing their customers, recommend-ing cuts of meat, and providing cooking tips like a trusted neighbor would. At the heart of Casey’s is its renowned meat department, op-erated by 13 expert journeymen butchers who aren’t just slic-ing top-quality meats—they’re serving as personal culinary guides. It's this blend of old-school service and modern con-venience that makes Casey’s a standout in Naperville's crowded grocery landscape.(cont.)

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Glancer Magazine • AUGUST 2025 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 25And while Casey’s is future-focused, its foundation is rich with family legacy. The store was opened in 1991 by brothers Dan and David Casey, sons of Mike Casey, who started Mikes’ Meat Mar-ket in 1969. Now led by owner Kris Visher, Casey’s continues to uphold the founding values of quality, care, and community. That commitment shines through in its partnerships with organi-zations like Little Friends, Project HELP, and the Alive Center. Whether providing greenhouses for local nonprofits, supporting disaster relief across the globe, or fulfilling holiday wish lists for local families, Casey’s lives its promise: to care deeply, serve generously, and remain “count-on-able.” For longtime shoppers and new faces alike, Casey’s Foods is more than a grocery store—it’s a community staple that’s big on heart, mighty in service, and always listening to what Naperville families need next. Casey’s Foods 124 W Gartner Rd, Naperville, Illinois (630) 369-1686 COMMUNITY LIVINGPhotos by Ruta Drulia

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26 • WESTERN SUBURBS • AUGUST 2025 • Glancer Magazine ON STAGEARTS + ENTERTAINMENTHarry Potter and the Cursed ChildJames M. Nederlander Theatre, Chicago IT’S TIME TO BELIEVE IN MAGIC • September 10–February 1, 2025 Broadway’s Spellbinding Sensation Harry Potter and the Cursed Child has arrived in Chicago on its first-ever North American Tour. Join the next adventure and experience the wizarding world like never before at this record-breaking, Tony Award-winning hit, hailed as “one of the most defining pop culture events of the decade” (Forbes). When Harry Potter’s head-strong son Albus befriends the son of his fiercest rival, Draco Malfoy, it sparks an unbelievable new journey for them all—with the power to change the past and future forever. Prepare for a mind-blowing race through time, spectacular spells, and an epic battle, all brought to life with the most astonishing theatrical magic ever seen on stage. It’s a “marvel of imagination” (The New York Times) that will “leave you wondering ‘how’d they do that?’ for days to come” (People Magazine). www.broadwayinchicago.com/shows/harry-potter-and-the-cursed-child/

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Glancer Magazine • AUGUST2025 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 27ARTS + ENTERTAINMENTARTS + ENTERTAINMENTLion King October 3-October 19Cadillac Palace Theatre CHICAGO–Giraffes strut. Birds swoop. Gazelles leap. The entire Ser-engeti comes to life as never before. And as the music soars, Pride Rock slowly emerges from the mist. This is Disney’s THE LION KING, making its triumphant return to the Cadillac Palace Theatre! More than 100 million people around the world have experienced the awe-inspiring visual artistry, the unforgettable music, and the uniquely theatrical storytelling of this Broadway spectacular – one of the most breathtaking and beloved productions ever to grace the stage. Winner of six Tony Awards®, including Best Musical, THE LION KING brings together one of the most imaginative creative teams on Broad-way. Tony Award®-winning director Julie Taymor brings to life a story filled with hope and adventure set against an amazing backdrop of stunning visuals. THE LION KING also features the extraordinary work of Tony Award®-winning choreographer Garth Fagan and some of Broadway’s most recognizable music, crafted by Tony Award®-winning artists Elton John and Tim Rice. There is simply nothing else like THE LION KING. www.broadwayinchicago.com/shows/the-lion-king-2/

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ARTS + ENTERTAINMENTARTS + ENTERTAINMENTBrighteSide Theatre’s 2025-26 Season Delivers “For the Fun of It”Experience the Magic, Laughter and Unforgettable Charm at Naperville’s Hidden Gem BrightSide Theatre, the hidden gem nestled in the heart of downtown Naper-ville, invites you to experience live theatre like never before with its exciting 14th season, “For the Fun of It.” From the moment you step into the intimate venue, you’re welcomed with warmth, creativity, and a vibrant energy that makes every show a memorable event. This season offers something for everyone—bold musicals, timeless comedy, and joyful youth performances. The fun begins in October with the wildly en-tertaining cult classic The Rocky Horror Show, bringing costumes, callbacks, and outrageous fun to the Halloween season. In January, enjoy the sweeping romance and rich music of PHANTOM in Concert by Maury Yeston and Arthur Kopit. April brings Private Lives, Noël Coward’s elegant and razor-sharp comedy of love and mischief. Wrapping up the season in June is the side-split-ting, toe-tapping musical The Producers by Mel Brooks. BrightSide’s Youth Theatre Project also returns with two delightful family-friendly musicals: The SpongeBob Musical Youth Edition in October and Le-gally Blonde The Musical, Jr. in February 2026—showcasing the talents of tomorrow’s stars on stage today. Whether it’s your first time or a returning favorite, a visit to BrightSide Theatre is more than a show—it’s a community experience full of heart, humor, and theatrical magic. Tickets and subscriptions are on sale now at www.BrightSideTheatre.com or by calling 630-447-TIXS (8497). Performances are held at Meiley-Swallow Hall and Madden Theatre at North Central College. www.brightsidetheatre.comGlancer Magazine • AUGUST 2025 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 29

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COMMUNITY LIVINGSpa Time! ST. CHARLES–At Simply Crystal Electrolysis & Skin Care, excellence is a team ef-fort. With over 30 years of trusted service, this woman-owned business is powered by a dynamic, highly experienced team committed to helping clients look and feel their best with care that runs more than skin deep. From the moment you walk through the door, you’re met with warmth, professionalism, and per-sonalized attention. The talented staff including seasoned estheticians and electrologists Erika and Victoria bring their own unique strengths, spe-cialties, and heart to every service. Whether it’s a transformative facial, flawless wax, a lash lift or ex-tensions, permanent hair removal through electro-lysis, this team prioritizes results, comfort, and confidence. More than just service providers, the team at Simply Crystal is a supportive force educating clients, staying on top of indus-try advancements, and foster-ing lasting relationships. With years of combined experience and a shared passion for skin-care, they create an environ-ment that’s both clinical and comforting, professional and personal. Clients consistently rave not only about their glow-ing skin, but about the feeling of being truly cared for. “We work together to make people feel seen and supported,” says the team. “It’s a privilege to be part of their journey.” As the business continues to grow and evolve, one thing remains constant: a trusted, compas-sionate team that shows up with skill, integrity, and genuine love for what they do. Simply Crystal Electrolysis & Skin Care 457 Dunham Road, Saint Charles, Illinois (630) 587-3700 www.simplycrystalskincare.com Glancer Magazine • AUGUST 2025 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 31

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32 • WESTERN SUBURBS • AUGUST 2025 • Glancer Magazine TrendY TravelerIXTAPA, MEXICO–Set against the dramatic cliffs of Mexico's Pacific Coast, Cala de Mar Resort & Spa Ixtapa is offering wellness travel through ancient rituals, marine-inspired ther-apies, and quiet spaces for reflection and meditation. At the heart of this luxurious hideaway is the resort's world-class El Capricho Spa, where ancestral healing traditions, modern wellness techniques, and the rhythm of the ocean combine to create a transformative wellness journey. Wellness at Cala de Mar is a ceremony. Drawing on indige-nous wisdom and the elemental power of the Pacific, guests are immersed in holistic experiences designed to soothe, re-store, and awaken the body and spirit. OCEAN-INSPIRED HEALING ON THE CLIFFSIDE Sculpted directly into the rocky cliffs just steps from the surf, the 6,000-square-foot El Capricho Spa offers five private treat-ment rooms and an open-air massage suite, all overlooking the Pacific. Each treatment begins with a floral footpath and water ritual that includes steam, dry sauna, whirlpool, and rain showers. The spa's menu is inspired by the local land and sea, utilizing traditional herbs, flowers, and fruits such as cacao, coffee, aloe, cactus, lemongrass, and toronjil, a lemon-scented blossom central to Aztec healing traditions. Signature treatments include the Lemongrass & Toronjil Wrap, which detoxifies and improves skin condition, and the Amuzgo Herbal Massage, a centuries-old healing technique involving hot herbal poultices to release toxins and tension. TRAVEL + LEISUREExperience Wellness by the Sea at Cala de Mar Ixtapa

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Couples can indulge in the Yoloxochitl Couple's Massage, named after the "heart flower," or the Love Ritual, which com-bines tandem massages with custom facials for him and her. A highlight of the spa is the Capricho Therapy, an 80-minute signature experience designed to nourish the body. The treat-ment begins with a gentle exfoliation using locally sourced sea salts that cleanse and soften the skin. This is followed by a massage incorporating a variety of techniques tailored to relax the muscles and nervous system. Capricho Therapy is ideal for guests experiencing muscle ten-sion, mental fatigue, or high levels of stress. The combination of exfoliation and massage promotes blood circulation and en-courages a deep state of relaxation. Each spa room is named in the indigenous Nahuatl language after native flowers such as Citlaxochitl (poinsettia), with hand-picked artwork and local design elements adding an authentic sense of place. For added serenity, guests can sip herbal tea and gaze at the waves between treatments in the spa lounges, each equipped with dry saunas, color-therapy steam rooms, and hydrotherapy areas. HYDRO RITUAL Guests looking to harness the restorative power of water will find comfort in the Hydro ritual experience. This water-based therapy begins with a floral footpath and transitions into a guided circuit of temperature-contrast elements, including a Jacuzzi, sauna, steam room, and a sensory shower. This contrast therapy is designed to promote circulation, re-duce inflammation, relieve muscle pain, and support tissue healing. Herbal teas and natural beverages are served before treatments in the spa's lounge area. The one-hour Hiydro ritual experience can be enhanced with additional offerings, includ-ing a glass of champagne, rose petal decoration, chocolate-covered strawberries, fresh juice, smoothies, or a healthy spa lunch. The Sacred Temazcal: Ancestral Sweat Lodge by the Sea Cala de Mar has further deepened its spiritual offerings with the addition of the Jatsima Temazcal, a private sweat lodge ceremony inspired by pre-Hispanic Mesoamerican traditions. Housed in a circular stone dome nestled on the cliffs, the te-mazcal ceremony is led by a local shaman and powered by healing herbs like rosemary, basil, and lemongrass from the resort's own garden. Steam is created by gently pouring water over volcanic rocks, and the ritual serves as a full-body and soul purification. Guests are encouraged to sit, lie down, or move freely inside the temazcal to release physical and emotional burdens. The ceremony concludes with a refreshing open-air shower over-looking the ocean. THE ZEN ZONE For those seeking daily grounding, Cala de Mar's Zen Zone provides an open-air space for yoga, breathwork, or reflection. The space is purposefully designed as a tech-free area where guests can unplug and reconnect with nature and themselves. Meditation sessions here follow mindfulness practices that en-courage being fully present, calm, and aware amid the sound of crashing waves. Yoga is offered throughout the resort, from the beach deck to the private terraces of guest suites, with curated routines for beginners and experienced practitioners. Whether joining a morning sun salutation or a twilight meditation, the resort in-vites guests to synchronize body and breath with the Pacific. WELLNESS THAT MOVES WITH YOU Cala de Mar's holistic wellness philosophy extends beyond its spa walls. The resort offers a full fitness program for travelers who wish to maintain their movement and mindfulness while on vacation. From guided yoga sessions at sunrise and mind-ful meditations at dusk to indulging in marine-infused therapies by the ocean, the resort ensures guests leave feeling cen-tered. www.calademar.com TRAVEL + LEISUREGlancer Magazine • AUGUST 2025 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 33

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EXCLUSIVITY AWAITS Northwoods of Naperville NAPERVILLE–Welcome to Northwoods of Naperville, an ex-clusive townhome community nestled beside a peaceful for-est preserve in prestigious Naperville. With wooded views and a tranquil setting, Northwoods of Naperville offers privacy and high end living just minutes from I-88 & Naperville Road and quick access to downtown Naperville. Indulge in top-tier shopping, dining, and entertainment—all a stone’s throw away—while enjoying the calm of your neigh-borhood. Families benefit from the elite Naperville Com-munity Unit District 203, known for excellence and achievement. Northwoods of Naperville is more than a place to live; it’s a lifestyle of prestige, connection, and quiet luxury. Get exclu-sive access online today. www.northwoodsofnaperville.comexquisite livingNAPERVILLE LIVINGGlancer Magazine • AUGUST 2025 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 35

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36 • WESTERN SUBURBS • AUGUST 2025 • Glancer Magazine MMOOMM’’SS Rolling on the River There’s no sweeter way to explore the Fox River Valley than on two wheels—with ice cream in hand and sunshine on your face. BOJ-E-BIKES in Batavia has launched a new Sweet Treats Guided E-Bike Tour that com-bines the joy of effortless cruising with stops at local candy and ice cream shops, creating a memorable adventure for riders of all ages and abilities. Our tour began at BOJ-E-BIKES in downtown Batavia, where we were fitted with electric bikes designed for every level of rider—from those who wanted to pedal a lot, to those who preferred to just sit back and coast with motor-ized ease. We had a blast journeying along the scenic Fox River Trail through the heart of Batavia, St. Charles, and Geneva, crossing charming bridges and winding past riverside views, native wildflowers, and shaded forest pre-serves. Highlights included power boosting up the hill to visit the iconic Batavia Windmill Mu-seum, winding through the peaceful Fabyan Forest Preserve, and strolling past the whim-sical sculptures of Mt. St. Mary Park. The trail is a perfect blend of nature, history, and small-town charm.little black bookA New Adventure Every Month!featuring

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Glancer Magazine • AUGUST 2025 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 37Of course, no sweet-themed tour would be com-plete without delicious detours. We stopped at Hey Sugar for unique bakery treats and pop-up photo opps; Kilwins for rich fudge and creamy scoops of handcrafted ice cream; and Rocket Fizz for retro candies, quirky sodas and unique treats from around the world. The entire experience lasted approximately two hours, offering plenty of time to enjoy both the ride and the bites. Our knowledgeable guide led the way, sharing fun facts about local landmarks and ensuring everyone felt safe and comfortable on their e-bikes. Whether you're planning a family outing, girls’ day, date adventure, or just want to see the Tri-Cities in a whole new (and delicious) way, E-Bike Tours, such as The Dam Tour – History of the Fox River Dams; the Architectural/Historic Building Tour; the Shopping Spree, and the Home Decor Tour are the perfect way. With stunning views, sweet indul-gences, and no pedaling required if you choose, BOJ-E-BIKES delivers a unique tour that’s as fun as it is flavorful. OVERVIEW BOJ-E-BIKES strives to help customers (and E-Bike Community) have great E-Biking experiences and feel the positive effects riding can have. From helping people take that first pedal to seeing them feel like a kid again, BOJ-E-BIKES offers pur-chases, rentals, and guided group tours along the Fox River Trail. BOJ-E-BIKES 26 N. Island Avenue Batavia, IL 60654 (630) 777-4220 www.BOJ-E-BIKES.com Hours of Operations: Closed Mondays; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday thru Sat-urday; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sun-days. ABOUT THE WRITER Kristen Kucharski’s days are never dull, her kids a r e never bored! Over the years #MomsLittleBlackBook has explored hundreds of kid friendly things to do in our surrounding community and on the road. As her girls have grown and gone away to college, she continues to enjoy unique activities, excursions, day trips, week-end get-a-aways, and road trips while rediscovering my own passion for adventure with friends, girls nights outs, and date nights. In her words: “Life is a journey–might as well have fun along the way. Go, fly, roam, travel, voyage, explore, discover!”MOM’S LITTLE BLACK BOOK

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38 • WESTERN SUBURBS • AUGUST 2025 • Glancer Magazine ARTS + ENTERTAINMENTJohn Madormo of Naperville Brings the Wild West to Life for Young Readers NAPERVILLE–Naperville’s own John Madormo, a retired as-sistant professor of broadcast communications at North Central College, has turned his lifelong passion for storytelling into an exciting new chapter. After 38 years of teaching, Madormo re-tired in 2018 and now dedicates his time to writing. His latest project? A four-book middle-grade western series titled The Abi-lene Kid, published by Wolfpack Publishing. The series kicks off with Dead Man’s Hand, introducing readers to Dominick Dalesandro, a twelve-year-old with an unusual ob-session: the Old West. While his peers are busy with sports and video games, Dominick immerses himself in tales of cowboys, outlaws, and lawmen. His fascination centers on Sheriff Amos "Lone Wolf" Malone, a legendary figure from 1880s Abilene, Kansas. Dominick’s life takes a thrilling turn when he discovers a rare biography of Sheriff Malone in his local library. As he opens the dusty tome, a magical portal transports him to the Wild West, where he meets the legendary lawman himself. Sheriff Malone, nearing retirement, recruits Dominick as his successor, setting the stage for an action-packed adventure. The first book in the series, Dead Man’s Hand, debuted on April 29, 2025 with subsequent titles—Boot Hill Curse, Sacred Re-lics, and Sweet Revenge—releasing monthly through July. With its blend of history, magic, and adventure, The Abilene Kid promises to captivate young readers and transport them to a time of dusty trails and daring heroes. Keep an eye out for this local author’s thrilling series—it’s a ride you won’t want to miss! Learn more at www.theabilenekid.com "Sweet Revenge" and the New Four-Book Boxed Set are ranked in the TOP 10 of Amazon's Hot New Releases LITERAARRYYlocalKNOW A LOCAL AUTHOR? editorial@glancermagazine.com

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Chicago StyleCity Cruises Live! Chicago Bears Cruise40 • WESTERN SUBURBS • AUGUST 2025 • Glancer Magazine TRAVEL + LEISUREUp Close with the 2006 Legends Aboard City Cruises Live! CHICAGO–The City Cruises Live event, celebrating the unforgettable 2006 Chicago football season, delivered more than skyline views and highlight reels. It was a once-in-a-lifetime chance to truly connect with the icons of that historic team. Hall of Famer Brian Urlacher, quar-terback Rex Grossman, and defensive standout Alex Brown weren’t just on board—they were in it with fans for nearly every moment of the one hour VIP Access Meet-n-Greet PLUS the three-hour dinner cruise. Whether grabbing personal photos, swapping high-fives, or diving into detailed Q&As, these legends made sure no fan went unnoticed. From the moment VIP boarding began, the players mingled effort-lessly, sharing memories, cracking jokes, and answering questions that had clearly been burning in fans' minds for years. Urlacher lit up as he recalled his favorite moments—under sta-dium lights and off the field. “I really enjoyed hanging with the guys for lunch in the office - they were family - my home away from home,” he shared with profound reflec-tion. “We used to play dodgeball in the locker room—offense vs. defense. Trash cans as goals. It got intense,” he said with a grin. by Kristen Kucharski Photos Submitted

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Alex Brown, all smiles all night, said it best: “We practiced hard, but we always kept it fun. “I felt 14-years-old the entire time I played. That’s how I approached the game,” as he looked over at a young kid in the crowd and re-minded him to always have fun! The same mantra he shares with his own kids. “Enjoy it; however, if you want to be great - BE GREAT - TikTok isn’t going to get you there.” He went on to share some personal moments with his own son’s love/hate relation-ship with regimented workouts, alongside his Champion father, while pursuing his own dreams. “It wasn’t easy, but he wanted it enough - you have to want it!” Brown also gave a vulnerable glimpse into his pregame mindset—always nervous - always wanting to make his family proud each and every time. “Mariah Carey got me through it,” he admitted, laughing. “I’ve always used music to calm me down to get into the right mindset.” Rex Grossman was candid and charismatic, sharing what it meant to play in Chicago. “Most people don’t get to experience what I did here,” he said. “If I played today, I’d want to lead the Bears under this current coaching staff. He went on to ex-press deep care and introspection when speaking about how he and the players felt about each other, and the utmost re-spect they had for Coach Lovie Smith as a father figure. “We didn’t want to disappoint him or each other,” Brown added. Both he and Grossman credited the leadership of Urlacher for the team’s success; “There was no better Hall of Famer to play beside.” Fans asked it all—and got real, thoughtful answers back. Not rushed, not re-hearsed. Every interaction felt per-sonal, because it was. And even Jeff Joniak, the night’s host, shared a gem—like the time he acciden-tally pocket-dialed Urlacher, who still picked up the late night call - showing his true character as a caring person and exemplary leader, both on and off the field. This cruise didn’t just cele-brate champions—it cele-brated fathers, teammates, and the work it takes to become great. The resounding message - it was family - and these legends treated the City Cruises Live crowd like their own. About CityCruises LIVE Where live entertainment meets the water, experi-ence intimate events featuring musical artists, sports legends, TV personalities, and more. Throughout the summer, guests can enjoy unique cruises such as Randy Houser Live and Country Cruisin’ with Colt Ford on Lake Michigan. Additionally, Chicago sports fans can look forward to special Chicago White Sox cruises such as its 2005 Chicago White Sox World Champions Cruise with A.J. Pierzynski & Team-mates, and Chicago Bears-themed cruises A Night with Chi-cago Football Conference Champions: Brian Urlacher, Rex Grossman & Alex Brown offering exclusive experiences and VIP opportunities with team legends. Visit www.citycruises.com/chicago for upcoming dates.TRAVEL + LEISUREGlancer Magazine • AUGUST 2025 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 41

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42 • WESTERN SUBURBS • AUGUST 2025 • Glancer Magazine REAL ESTATE Meet Ewelina Rafael, Top Producing Realtor for Naperville, DuPage County and Beyond With an intuitive grasp of market trends and a true passion for connecting people to their dream homes, Ewelina Rafael has built a rep-utation that resonates across Illinois. Recog-nized in Coldwell Banker’s elite Top 4% International President’s Circle for 2023 and ranked among the top 2% of Illinois agents in 2022 in residential sales volume, Ewelina pairs industry expertise with a uniquely modern, client-centered approach. Her concierge style experience—customized and attentive from start to close—has earned her a loyal following and a steady stream of referrals. Ewelina’s influence extends beyond Illinois borders as the #1 Real-tor on Social Media in both Naperville and Illi-nois, recognized nationally by Property Spark, where she ranks among the top 30 Realtors on social media. Her clients describe her as an ally, advocate, and meticulous strategist, delivering a seamless, stress-free experience marked by in-tegrity and skill. Ewelina isn’t just selling homes; she’s setting new standards, one home at a time. Ewelina Rafael, Realtor COLDWELL BANKER GLOBAL LUXURY (630) 965-7712 www.ewelinarealtor.com CERTIFICATIONS CB Global Luxury, Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist, Member Institute for Luxury Home Marketing REAL ESTATE SPOTLIGHTPhotos by Ruta Drulia for Glancer Magazine

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48 • WESTERN SUBURBS • AUGUST 2025 • Glancer Magazine ON TREND ESSENTIALS NORTH AURORA / CAROL STREAM / ONLINE NORTH AURORA/CAROL STREAM–Urban Echo Shop fea-tures on trend essentials for the stylish at heart– from clothing and accessories, to jewelry by Madison Charmed, home decor, unique furniture, gifts and seasonal trends. Owned by local mom, Lindy Kleivo and her daughter Madison in Sugar Grove, Illinois, Urban Echo Shop was created to be an adored virtual hometown boutique where only the latest styles and trends are featured. Residents are invited to sit back and relax while browsing the shop’s simplified trend collections on-line or shop at The Rustic Fox in North Aurora and Carol Stream, where you will find hundreds of unique vendors. Each day is a new day at Urban Echo Shop. ON TREND ESSENTIALS FOR THE STYLISH AT HEART Located Inside The Rustic Fox (Vendor #3) 1790 Town Centre Dr., North Aurora 570 S Schmale Rd, Carol Stream At the Entrance to the Left at Both LocationsShop Gallery

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50 • WESTERN SUBURBS • AUGUST 2025 • Glancer Magazine DINING + COCKTAILSGia Mia New to Yorktown Center LOCAL DISH, AUGUST 2025Dog Friendly & Fun for Everyone LOMBARD–Exciting news for west suburban food lovers in Lombard and beyond! Gia Mia is opening at Yorktown Center in Lombard July 22, 2025, offering a fresh, flavor-ful take on Italian dining. Known for its handcrafted wood-fired pizzas, fresh pasta, and Italian-inspired dishes, Gia Mia delivers a dining experience perfect for families, foodies, and romantic evenings alike. Italian cuisine takes the spotlight at Gia Mia, made evident by its signature wood-fired pizza. Each pizza is crafted with care, featuring premium ingredients and a perfectly crisp crust. Beyond pizza, diners can savor house-made pasta dishes, vibrant salads, and unique Italian-inspired plates that cater to all tastes. Whether you're a fan of clas-sic Margherita or looking to try something new, Gia Mia offers something special for everyone. Gia Mia is part of the BG Hospitality Group, a locally renowned restaurant group known for bringing exceptional dining experiences to the western suburbs. In addition to Gia Mia, BG Hospitality Group operates other celebrated restaurants such as Ella's Italian Pub, Livia Italian Eatery, Moto Imoto and Fire+Wine. Their dedication to quality, creativity, and warm hospitality shines through in all their concepts, making each loca-tion a destination for food lovers across the region. Gia Mia, 310 Yorktown Shopping Center, Lombard • (331) 332-2300 DINING

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Glancer Magazine • AUGUST 2025 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 51DINING + COCKTAILSCCoocckkttaaiillssGet Ready for La Exótica AVAILABLE AT THREE LOCAL FAVORITES GLEN ELLYN–Discover La Exótica, a seductive cocktail blending mystery with the refreshing zest of mandarina.  Now available at Quiubo, A Toda Madre, and Bien Trucha in the west suburbs of Chicago, this vibrant drink is perfect for those craving a bold twist on traditional cocktails. Whether you're out with friends or celebrating a special moment, La Exótica de-livers a tantalizing experience you won't forget. Visit Quiubo today and enjoy this citrus-infused masterpiece! www.bientruchagroup.comYour Peach Margarita Awaits at COA OAK BROOK–Meet Peach Margarita at COA at The Drake in Oak Brook — golden, refreshing, and brimming with charm. Sweet yet never simple, this cocktail combines classic flavors with a sunny attitude for the perfect sip. Whether you're unwinding after a busy day or enjoying a night out, the Peach Margarita is sure to become your new favorite. Visit COA and ex-perience this delightful drink for yourself! /www.coaoakbrook.comWine Slushy Perfect at Tasting Divine WHEATON–Cool off this month with a Wine Slushy by the glass or treat yourself to a flight of 3! Crafted with premium local wines, these refreshing frozen treats come in a variety of flavors that perfectly balance sweet and tangy. Favorites include Cherry Lime Sangria and Blueberry Sangria. Whether you’re enjoying a relaxing afternoon with friends or looking to try something new, Tasting Divine’s Wine Slushies are the perfect way to cool off and indulge in a fun, flavorful experience. A must-try for wine lovers! www.tastingdivine.com

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HEALTH + BEAUTYSalon 21 in Wheaton Celebrates 40 Years of Beauty Excellence WHEATON–Salon 21 in Wheaton is marking a major milestone—40 incred-ible years of transforming lives through exceptional beauty and wellness serv-ices! Since 1985, this premier Whea-ton salon located in Danada Square West has been the go-to destination for west suburban customers seeking top-tier salon and spa experiences. Four Decades of Beauty Innovation Salon 21 Wheaton has built its reputation on delivering outstanding results and person-alized service. For 40 years, their skilled team of professionals has stayed ahead of beauty trends while maintaining the classic techniques that clients love. This anniversary celebration reflects their commitment to excel-lence and their deep roots in the Wheaton community. Complete Beauty and Wellness Services What sets Salon 21 apart is their comprehensive range of serv-ices under one roof. Whether you're looking for a complete make-over or routine maintenance, this full-service Wheaton salon offers: • Haircare: From cuts and colors to styling and treatments • Skincare: Professional facials and skin rejuvenation services • Massage: Relaxing therapeutic and wellness massages • Waxing: Professional hair removal services • Wigs: Expert fitting and styling for all needs • Laser: Advanced laser treatments for various concerns • Spa Packages: Customized wellness experiences combining multiple services Premium Product Lines Salon 21 Wheaton partners with industry-leading brands to ensure clients receive the highest quality products. Their carefully curated selection includes beloved names like Aveda, Goldwell, Moroccan Oil, and Pureology—brands trusted by profes-sionals worldwide for their superior re-sults and innovative formulations. Exclusive 40th Anniversary Celebratory Specials To celebrate this remarkable milestone, Salon 21 is offering incredible limited-time savings: • 40% Off Perms: Perfect for adding volume and texture* • 40% Off Highlights: Brighten your look with pro-fessional color* • $40 Off Wigs: Expert fitting and styling included* • 40% Off Aveda Products: Stock up on premium hair care* • $40 Ear Piercing: Professional, safe piercing services* • $40 Brazilian Wax: Smooth, professional results* *See ad on previous page for details and restrictions. Ready to join the celebration? Now’s the perfect time to experience what has made Salon 21 Wheaton's trusted beauty destination for four decades. Contact Salon 21 Wheaton today to book your appointment and take advantage of these exclusive 40th anniversary offers. Visit their website or call to schedule your transformation with Whea-ton's most experienced salon professionals. SALON 21 - Salon & Wellness Spa 80 Danada Square West, Wheaton IL 60189 Call or Text: 630.668.1118 www.salon21wheaton.comCelebrate!Time toGlancer Magazine • AUGUST 2025 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 53

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NAPER SETTLEMENT 54 • WESTERN SUBURBS • AUGUST 2025 • Glancer Magazine COMMUNITY LIVINGautumn is comingThe Naper Settlement Farmer’s Market NAPERVILLE–The Naper Settlement Farmers Market is back for a second year with an exciting lineup of local ven-dors, educational programming and classes, and live music on the picturesque grounds of Naper Settlement. Every Tuesday from 3-7 PM now through September 23, come shop for an assortment of goods and fresh produce from mission-based, fair-trade, or local vendors, including coffee, honey, bakery items, flowers, and more. Educational offer-ings are expanded this year to include new hands-on dem-onstrations with local farmers and community experts, including a bread making class, a beekeeping lecture, and other topics. The Naper Settlement Farmers Market provides a beautiful backdrop for the community to gather, learn, and grow together while supporting and connecting with local farmers, businesses, and artisans. For more information, visit https://napersettlement.org/FarmersMarket VIEW MORE DETAILS ONLINE www.napersettlement.org/FarmersMarket

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Glancer Magazine • AUGUST 2025 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 55COMMUNITY LIVINGFAMILY FUN Blackberry Farm is Open AURORA–Blackberry Farm, with its variety of attractions and amenities, offers a lei-surely stroll down memory lane – both historically speaking and for generations of fam-ilies who’ve made visiting the park an annual tradition. The Fox Valley Park District’s history museum demonstrates the re-creation of pioneer life through educational experiences and hands-on fun. With unlimited rides on the replica steam-engine train, hay wagon, paddle boats, carousel and ponies included in the admission price, Blackberry presents parents the opportunity to relive their child-hood memories through the eyes and sounds of their little ones today. A seasonal destination, Blackberry also steps center stage during the summer months that feature Live & Uncorked – a seven-concert series that spans different music gen-res to appeal to all tastes. The fall season bursts with color during Pumpkin Weekends and winter begins with Blackberry aglow in twinkling lights and festive music, as fam-ilies hop aboard the Holiday Express, sip hot chocolate and whisper their secret lists to Santa. On average, Blackberry welcomes around 120,000 visitors per season, which this year runs from May 1 to Sept. 30, before seasonal, weekend events begin in October. www.blackberryfarm.infohistorical fun!

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DOWNERS GROVE So Much Happening Downtown Downers Grove DOWNERS GROVE–The variety of small businesses, amazing owners and community support makes downtown Downers Grove the destination it is today. Join us in welcoming Ninja Squad Gym to downtown Downers Grove. Keep your eye out for two new businesses opening soon, Fonda de Paula at 1012 Curtiss Street and Fern DG at 1001 Curtiss Street. The Annual Fine Arts Festival will be held Sept. 6-7, 2025. Enjoy the sounds of live entertainment as you shop the talented juried artists of a variety of mediums that will line Main Street. Make sure to visit our boutiques, cafes and restaurants while here. Learn more about downtown Downers Grove at down-towndg.org www.downtowndg.org56 • WESTERN SUBURBS • AUGUST 2025 • Glancer Magazine COMMUNITY LIVINGDowners Grove Market Photos by Mike Catuaradowners grove

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NAPERVILLE HISTORY New Exhibit at Naper Settlement THROUGH DECEMBER 2025 NAPERVILLE–Naper Settlement’s new exhibit, “Selling Kroehler,” explores Kroehler Manufacturing Company, the largest upholstered furniture maker in the United States by the mid-20th century. Kroehler Manufacturing Company was headquartered in Naperville from 1893 until 1978. In an effort to appeal to women, Kroehler developed sophisticated marketing strategies that sought to educate consumers around good taste. “Sell-ing Kroehler” dives into the company's marketing strategies to the rapidly changing consumer culture of the 20th century. The exhibit explores the innovative methods and strategies that Kroehler used to aid and educate retailers about how to sell to consumers. Many of the innovative tools, advertisements, furniture from the Kroehler collection, and the Kroehler miniature dis-plays used to market to consumers are on display in the exhibit. www.napersettlement.org/sellingkroehler58 • WESTERN SUBURBS • AUGUST 2025 • Glancer Magazine COMMUNITY LIVINGyesteryear

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DOWNTOWN NAPERVILLE Girls Night Out Fun! NAPERVILLE–Summer fun awaits! Plan a GNO, date night or co-worker hang out. Pinot’s Palette is the best night out in Nap-erville! It’s a fun-filled, party atmosphere where you and your friends, family or date can talk, laugh, paint and sip. You don't need any art experience – their talented local artists will guide you step-by-step through the night painting. Follow their instructions or go rogue and end up with a one-of-a-kind masterpiece! They also offer Mosaic Classes, Chunky Knit Blankets, Take Home Painting Kits, Virtual Live Streaming, In Studio and Vir-tual Private Parties! • Aprons and supplies provided • Snacks are welcome • Real wine glasses – no paper or plastic • There’s always rockin’ music Pinot's Palette Naperville 175 W. Jackson Avenue Downtown Naperville www.pinotspalette.com/naperville Glancer Magazine • AUGUST 2025 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 59COMMUNITY LIVINGbe creative!

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ST. CHARLES Otter Cove Water Fun for Everyone! ST. CHARLES–Themed around a river otter and his friends, Otter Cove offers water fun for everyone! Featuring a 25-yard pool, zero-depth entry activity pool, a shallow pool just for tod-dlers, a splash park with water wheels, dumping buckets and spray cannons, a sand/water play area, and rides that twist, turn, and twirl through water that shoots, sprays, and spins. Exciting activities are sure to appeal to every water enthusiast, from the most energetic cannon baller to the most laid-back floater. Race down the salamander slides. Enjoy an inner tube ride along turtle creek. Flitter around Dragonfly Den. Hop all over the Frog Bog. Exercise in the Crayfish Canal. Have some fun in the sun playing sand volleyball. Pack a picnic lunch or purchase a snack from The Dive concessions. These exciting water attractions and green open space offer thrills and relaxation for all ages. A Facility of the St. Charles Park District In James O. Breen Community Park 3615 Campton Hills Road, St. Charles (630) 513-4377 • www.ottercove.org so fun!Glancer Magazine • AUGUST 2025 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 61COMMUNITY LIVING

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ST. CHARLES All Aboard! Cruise the Scenic Fox River ST. CHARLES–Take in the beauty of the Fox Valley aboard an historic paddlewheel riverboat – an iconic attraction in St. Charles for more than 75 years. This recreational activity that has spanned generations began in 1945 when the late Chet Anderson bought his first paddlewheel riverboat to charter cruises up and down the Fox River. Traveling from the era of Mark Twain through a green corridor of scenic beauty, each riverboat trip offers something com-pletely different. Sometimes you might see an eagle or a tur-tle, other times an osprey or a family of foxes. This completely unique way to explore the city and the beautiful Fox River is affordable and memorable for all ages during both public and private events. On the public cruises, the riverboats tell stories from the past. While taking in the scenery, guests will learn about the Potta-watomi tribe that roamed the banks of the shore prior to St. Charles settlement and several historic landmarks. More fun is had when you hear the tales of icehouses and underground railroads as well as community lore regarding Al Capone’s in-famous “hideaway.” These beautiful boats and their homegrown story are some-thing that St. Charles can truly be proud of, and rest assured, the Andersons’ legacy and the generations of family mem-ories these boats carry is in good hands with the dedicated staff of the St. Charles Park District at the helm. www.stcriverboats.com so fun!Glancer Magazine • AUGUST 2025 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 63COMMUNITY LIVING

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NAPERVILLE ThriveFEST Where Naperville Come to Rest, Regenerize, Recover & THRIVE! NAPERVILLE–What started as a coffee shop brainstorm has grown into Naperville’s highly anticipated health, wellness, and fitness fes-tival—designed to help you discover, try, and fall in love with serv-ices and experiences that elevate your life. Founded by Atusa Freyer, THRIVEFest brings the best of health, wellness, and recovery to your front door—no Googling, no guess-work. It’s for the curious, the committed, the health-first, and the “what’s this?” crowd. If you’ve ever wondered what’s possible when you put yourself first—this is your moment. Everything is included in the price of admission: from live workouts to red light therapy, from IV drips to massages and lymphatic fa-cials—it’s one action-packed day of experiences that empower. Featuring Presenting Sponsors: IVme Naperville – Get glowing with hydration + B12 shots at the NaperCHILL Loung Pure Barre – Stretch, sculpt, and sweat it out at the Blitz the Barre Lounge and on stage Perspire Sauna Studio – Detox and de-stress with Therabody Mask sessions + infrared tech Expect: • Live DJ sets & stage workouts • Wellness treatments, experiences, and consultations • Serenity lounges + recovery zones • Pop-up shopping, local bites, and a Kid's Play Zone • Cold plunges, raffles, and giveaways! Come for the vibes. Stay for the transformation. THRIVEFest: It’s not just an event—it’s a lifestyle. LINK TO TICKETS: www.eventbrite.com/e/thrivefest-naperville-august-2nd-2025-tickets-1347582087299?aff=oddtdtcreator 64 • WESTERN SUBURBS • AUGUST 2025 • Glancer Magazine COMMUNITY LIVING

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NAPERVILLE Celebrating 60 Years of The Last Fling We are Celebrating 60 Years of Fling this Labor Day Weekend! NAPERVILLE–The Naperville Jaycees Last Fling is a FREE to attend family-friendly festival taking place August 29 through September 1, 2025 and is a fun way to say farewell to summer. Visit the Business Expo, Beer Garden, Food Vendors, Jackson Ave-nue Stage and Family Fun Zone! The Carnival area is open all weekend long; with exclusive access Special Needs Day on Sunday morning. The 2025 Labor Day Parade kicks off Monday at 10am fol-lowed by a Veterans’ Appreciation Lunch in the Sponsors’ Tent. Non-perishable and monetary do-nations will be accepted at each gated entrance. Net proceeds are donated to area nonprofit organi-zations. For more details, visit www.lastfling.org www.lastfling.org 60 Years!Glancer Magazine • AUGUST 2025 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 65COMMUNITY LIVING

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66 • WESTERN SUBURBS • AUGUST 2025 • Glancer Magazine HEALTHY LIVING The Impact of Heat in the Summer AURORA–Chronic Venous Insufficiency is a condition where the veins of the legs don't appropriately pump the blood back towards the heart. The heat during the summer months, combined with standing for long periods, dehydration, and increased travel time sitting in hot vehicles can also aggravate the issue. You can manage the symptoms by: • Staying hydrated • Elevating your legs, and • Wearing compression stockings. Maintaining an active lifestyle with low impact activities such as walking, bicycle riding, and swimming can help regulate blood flow. It can also improve circulation and tone muscles in your legs, which can help pump blood toward the heart. Concerned about Chronic Venous Insufficiency? Call Physicians Vein Clinics at 630-820-2727 to schedule your FREE screening. HEALTH + BEAUTY

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Glancer Magazine • AUGUST 2025 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 69Wedding Rentals to Add a Special Touch CHICAGOLAND-The dance floor is often the center piece for your event. This local rental company offers one of the most extensive range of color options for rental. Plus, tables, chairs, linens, staging and more available for rental. Plan the perfect event today with Event Equipment Rentals. www.eventequipmentrentals.comWedding Bliss2025 WEDDING TRENDSExquisite Flowers to Make Your Day Special and Memorable NAPERVILLE–DLN Florals in Naperville specializes in crafting breathtaking wedding flower ar-rangements. With personalized service and meticulous atten-tion to detail, they bring your dream wedding to life. Trust their expertise to create unfor-gettable florals for your special day. View gallery online. www.dlnfloralco.comAn Unforgettable Wedding Cake GENEVA-Make your wedding extraor-dinary with Geneva Baking Company! Specializing in custom wedding cakes for the west suburban area, they craft stunning designs with exquisite flavors. Their skilled team ensures each cake reflects your style while adding a per-sonal touch. Celebrate your love story with something truly unforgettable! www.genevabakingcompany.comCentury Memorial Chapel Wedding Ceremony NAPERVILLE-Century Memorial Chapel, built in 1864, exudes historic charm with original stained glass, hand stenciling, and Gothic Revival details like curved buttresses and carved pews. Located at Naper Settlement in Naperville, it seats up to 150 guests, offering a stunning, nondenominational setting for unforgettable wedding cere-monies. A unique gem in Chicagoland! www.napersettlement.org

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NAPERVILLE Make It Easy with Casey’s Naperville’s Iconic Casey’s Foods Innovates for On-the-Go Families NAPERVILLE – What’s for dinner? Casey’s Foods, Naperville’s premier independent grocery store for 34 years, helps busy families find delicious answers to that question. From ready-to-grill marinated meats at the butcher counter, to ready-made salads, to crock pot kits, and sliced Boar’s Head meats at the deli, the team at Casey’s Foods serves up a variety of high-quality options for time-saving meals. “We appreciate our guests and listen to them to meet the evolving needs of our com-munity,” says Kris Visher, Casey’s Foods owner. “First-class, personalized service is central to the Casey’s customer experience.” CASEY’S (NOT SO) SECRETS • Going on a weekend road trip? Casey’s expert butchers can pack up meat to-go so it’s cooler-ready. • Grab-and-go patio party appetizers: Casey’s fresh Con queso Dip, Roja Salsa, Cow-boy Caviar, Spinach Dips, and tortilla chips. • Weekend Grill is Open! Saturdays and Sundays 11am-2pm (weather dependent) • Produce is hand-picked and trimmed to provide fresh, colorful fruits and vegetables. • Busy? Casey’s offers easy online ordering for in-store or curbside pickup. Pick it up, Pack it up, and GO! This summer, fill your basket with fresh, delicious Casey's favorites: sandwiches, sa-lads, and Snack Packs with hand-picked fruit, veggies, cheese, and more Naperville Plaza Shopping Center, W. Gartner & Washington, Naperville, Illinois (630) 369-1686 • Caseysfoods.com CELEBRATING LOCAL68 • WESTERN SUBURBS • AUGUST 2025 • Glancer Magazine

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70 • WESTERN SUBURBS • AUGUST 2025 • Glancer Magazine the ville teamREAL ESTATEDon’t Settle: Choose the Right Real Estate Agent to Sell Your Home NAPERVILLE–When it comes time to list your home for sale, choosing the first real estate agent you find could be a costly mistake. This is your big-gest investment—we're talking about your home, your equity, your future. Take the time to do your homework. Interview multiple agents, and ask the right questions to make sure you’re hiring someone qualified, experienced, and fully committed to getting you the best results. The Ville Difference The Ville Team understands that selling a home is more than a trans-action—it’s a significant life decision. What sets them apart? • They’re a true team—when one agent is hired, the entire team works col-laboratively on the seller’s behalf. • As your listing agent, The Ville personally attends every showing, ensur-ing each potential buyer receives a guided and informed experience. • Ranked in the top 1% of real estate teams locally, The Ville Team has earned a reputation for excellence. • With over $373 million in combined career sales and 70+ years of experi-ence, their results speak for themselves. • They prioritize communication, picking up the phone and re-sponding quickly to clients' needs. To better serve their clients, The Ville Team has opened a new office at 101 N. Washington St. in downtown Naperville. Clients are welcome to stop in anytime to meet the team and get expert guidance. While The Ville Team can certainly provide impressive statistics, they'd rather demonstrate their value in person. Contact The Ville Team today for a complimentary market analysis and discover why they are the trusted choice for sellers who want results. The Ville Team – Coldwell Banker Realty thevilleteam.com 630.420.8834 • thevilleteam@gmail.com NAPERVILLE

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72 • WESTERN SUBURBS • AUGUST 2025 • Glancer Magazine lliissttiinnggLakefront Property in Plainfield This spectacular lakefront property offers 7,176 square feet of luxurious living in the prestigious Lakelands Subdivision. With 4 bedrooms, 5.5 bathrooms, and 4 fireplaces, the home is de-signed for both relaxation and entertaining. The grand two-story foyer opens to a family room with a floor-to-ceiling stone fire-place and stunning water views. The gourmet kitchen features high-end stainless steel appliances, custom cabinetry, a two-tier island, and a butler’s pantry with a wine refrigerator. The main floor also includes a private office with a fireplace and a formal dining room. Upstairs, the primary suite boasts a spa-like bath-room, sitting area, and walk-in closet, while additional bed-rooms offer ensuite baths. A finished walk-out basement includes a home theater, kitchenette, and covered porch.(800) 276-2600 Listed by: Jeff Stainer Brokered by: RE MAX Action$1,625,522 13143 Wood Duck Dr, Plainfield 4 Bed / 5.5 Bath / 4,396 Sq Ft VIEW LISTINGMILLION DOLLAR REAL ESTATE

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HOME BEAUTIFULHOME SPOTLIGHT All Mirror and Glass Your Local Premier Glass Fabrication & Installation Company STREAMWOOD–From frameless shower enclosures that amplify your space to statement mirrors that reflect your unique style, All Mirror and Glass brings your vision to life. Our showroom is in Streamwood, and we have been satisfying customers in the Chicagoland area since 1991 with high-quality glass services and products. • Serving the Chicago Area Since 1991 • Customer Service is Our Top Priority • Will Beat Any Written Estimate • Proud Member of the NIHBA • Free Estimates on All Services • Over 25 Years of Experience SHOWER DOORS Custom Shower Doors and Enclosures Transform your bathroom into a spa-like retreat with a custom shower door by All Mirror and Glass. Our experts design and install stunning glass enclo-sures to fit your space and style, elevating your daily shower experience. Let us create the perfect oasis for you! CUSTOM MIRRORS Elegant Glass Mirrors Add sophistication and class to any room in your home with a brand-new glass mirror created by our experienced professionals. BATH ACCESSORIES Brand-New Bathroom Fixtures From faucets to towel racks to shelving, when it comes to upgrading your bathroom, you can't go wrong with All Mirror and Glass. CLOSET SHELVING Custom Built Closet Shelving Laminate shelves are a special way to add beauty and function to storage space throughout your home. Schedule your FREE on-site consultation and experience the All Mirror and Glass difference. At All Mirror and Glass, customer service is our top priority! Call at (630) 372-8146 or request and an estimate today! www.allmirrorandglass.comGlancer Magazine • AUGUST 2025 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 75

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76 • WESTERN SUBURBS • AUGUST 2025 • Glancer Magazine summertime hvacHOME SERVICES McNally’s Heating & Cooling Brings Comfort to Those Who Give Back and Need Help Through “Feel the Love” Program Now Accepting Nominations Through August 31, 2025 CHICAGOLAND–McNally’s Heating and Cooling is honored to once again partner with Lennox Industries for the Feel the Love program—an initiative that provides free heating and cooling systems to individ-uals and families who truly deserve a helping hand. Now in its fourth year of participation, McNally’s Heating and Cooling is proud to support this life-changing effort. Lennox donates the fur-nace, and McNally’s donates all installation time, materials, and labor at no cost to the recipient. It’s our way of giving back to those who have given so much to others. We’re looking for nominees who have made a positive impact on their com-munity—those who consistently give their time, energy, and care to others. This could be a veteran, teacher, first responder, healthcare worker, vol-unteer, or anyone who has shown com-passion and commitment to helping those around them. Nominations are open now through Au-gust 31, 2025. If you know someone in Kane or DuPage County who deserves a little extra care this year, don’t wait—nominate them today. For full eligibility details and to submit a nomi-nation, visit online. Let’s come together to Feel the Love—one home at a time. McNally’s Heating & Cooling www.mcnallyhvac.com (630) 389-1719 www.mcnallyhvac.com/feel-the-love-with-mcnallys/ HOME LOCAL

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CAREER VISION APTITUDE TESTING CAN HELP STUDENTS CHOOSE MAJORS AND CAREERS What are you doing after high school? You know further edu-cation is important. Do you need help finding the right career choice? The Career Vision Aptitude Advantage can help. Aptitudes identify your strongest talents, the jobs you would enjoy and be good at doing. Combining your aptitudes with your interests, Career Vision reveals your career choices. You also receive resources about college majors, job outlook, and preparation needed for those careers. If you have asked “What should I study?”, “What will I do after college?” and want to learn how Career Vision can help, give them a call. Their assessment process is a positive and an objective way to give you confidence to make good career choices. And your Personal Career Consultant will take time to discuss the test results with you and go over all your choices. If you are going to college and want to know what to study, reach out to Career Vision today. If you have graduated col-lege and still haven’t found your best fit, the professional con-sultants at Career Vision can help you, too. For over 30 years they have been helping students and adults find their best ca-reer choices. Career Vision • www.careervision.org • (630) 469-6270CCOOLLLLEEGGEE TTIIMMEEEDUCATION NEWSGlancer Magazine • AUGUST 2025 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 79

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80 • WESTERN SUBURBS • AUGUST 2025 • Glancer Magazine Otter Cove! WATER FUN FOR EVERYONE ST. CHARLES–Themed around a river otter and his friends, Otter Cove offers water fun for everyone! Fea-turing a 25-yard pool, zero-depth entry activity pool, a shallow pool just for toddlers, a splash park with water wheels, dumping buckets and spray cannons, a sand/water play area, and rides that twist, turn, and twirl through water that shoots, sprays, and spins. Otter Cove Aquatic Park, St. Charles Park District, In James O. Breen Community Park, 3615 Campton Hills Road, St. Charles www.ottercove.org Kid StuffWonder Woods Mini Golf NOW OPEN AT MORTON ARBORETUM The one-of-a-kind course includes imaginative, tree-themed features specially created by the Arboretum’s in-house exhibitions and design teams in collaboration with its science and conservation staff. From giant mushrooms to larger-than-life bugs and acorns, visitors can experience tree science in fun and unexpected ways. Scientific concepts include learning how tree rings can tell the life story of a tree to understanding how sound has the power to detect decay. The nine-hole pop-up course was custom de-signed with accessibility in mind, and can be enjoyed by players age 4 and up. Wonder Woods Mini Golf tickets must be purchased in addition to Arboretum general admission and will be available May 15. www.mortonarb.orgPlan a Party in the Park WITH MOGA PARTY RENTALS Make your event unforgettable with Moga Party Rentals! Family-owned and serving Oswego since 2018, they offer clean, top-quality bounce houses, water slides, tents, tables, and more. Known for ex-ceptional customer care and seamless delivery, Moga Party Rentals makes parties stress-free and fun. Book now to turn your celebration into a success! www.mogapartyrentals.com

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KID STUFFBig Smiles. Bright Ideas. Endless Play at DCM. JULY HIGHLIGHTS AT DUPAGE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM NAPERVILLE–Every button they push and lever they pull? That’s physics. We promise. At DuPage Children’s Museum (DCM), play isn’t a pause from learning—it is learning. We welcome families with open hands, open minds, and open-ended experiences that inspire joy, discovery, and connection. Be-cause playful moments aren’t just fun—they’re unforgettable. This August, make the most of the final stretch of summer with giggles, “aha!” moments, and hands-on fun that keeps curiosity blooming—even before the school bells ring. AugustHighlights: • August 6 – Adaptive Play Time • August 9 – So Long Summer Bash • August 22 – Members-Only Night • September 1 – OPEN Labor Day, 9–4 www.dupagechildrens.org • 630.637.8000 adventure awaitsGlancer Magazine • AUGUST 2025 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 81

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2. Piccolo Buco by Cooper’s Hawk NAPERVILLE– Piccolo Buco, in Nap-erville’s vibrant Block 59 dining hub, offers airy Roman‑style pizzas made with pre-mium Italian ing-redients. Expect tall, crisp crusts and a wine‑bar am-biance. Perfect for casual gatherings or date nights. www.pic-colobuco.coopers-hawk.com/locations82 • WESTERN SUBURBS • AUGUST 2025 • Glancer Magazine NEW LOCAL RESTAURANTS TO LOVE4. The Backyard WHEATON–The Backyard at 111 E Front St. transforms downtown Wheaton into a stylish adult playground—live music, movies, arcades and lounge seating be-hind Dough. Designed for ages 16+, this laid‑back entertainment venue with big‑screen fun and drinks fosters community without the kids. www.thebackyard.space 3. The George NAPERVILLE–The George reinvents Naperville’s dining scene with a casu-ally refined twist. Set in the former Bev’s space, this modern American tavern will serve elevated classics—think steak frites, French dip, craft cocktails—all in a polished yet relaxed setting where every burger feels like a celebration. A new local legend awaits. 1. The Cheesecake Factory NAPERVILLE–Nap-erville’s dining scene just got sweeter. The new Cheesecake Factory on Route 59 blends modern ele-gance with indul-gent comfort. With 250 scratch-made dishes, 30 iconic cheesecakes, and a stylish patio, it’s more than dinner—it’s a destination. Locals are already calling it their new go-to for celebrations, cravings, and everything between. www.thecheese-cakefactory.com Plan a Visit to One of these Amazing New Local Restaurants Looking for the best new restaurants in the western suburbs of Chicago? This vibrant dining scene is heating up with seven must-visit spots that cater to every craving. From indulgent cheesecakes in Naperville to broasted chicken in Geneva and sushi perfection in Downers Grove, these fresh openings redefine local flavor. Whether you're after Roman-style pizza, el-evated comfort food, or a chic entertainment venue, these new hotspots are ready to impress. Explore the latest culinary gems today!2.1.3.4.

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7. GIA Mia at Yorktown Center LOMBARD–Exciting news for west suburban food lov-ers in Lombard and beyond! Gia Mia opened at York-town Center in Lombard on July 22, offering a fresh, flavorful take on Italian dining. Known for its handcrafted wood-fired piz-zas, fresh pasta, and Italian-inspired dishes, Gia Mia delivers a dining experience perfect for families, foodies, and romantic evenings alike. www.giamiapizzabar.comGlancer Magazine • AUGUST 2025 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 836. Nori Sushi OSWEGO–Discover Nori Sushi & Grill, the hot new addition at 2756 Route 34 in Oswego. This casual Ja-panese eatery blends freshly prepared sushi, hibachi-grill cre-ations, and savory ramen in a modern atmosphere. Whether you crave spicy tuna rolls or sizzling hibachi, Nori delivers au-thentic flavors with a friendly twist. www.norisushieats.com 7.5. Ancho & Agave NAPERVILLE–Ancho & Agave at Naperville Crossings, bringing bold Mexican flavors to 2860 Showplace Drive. Expect street-style tacos, enchiladas, fajitas, vibrant marga-ritas, and craft cocktails in a lively, modern setting. A vivid culi-nary addition to Naperville’s west side, this spot promises fiesta vibes with quality and flair. www.anchoandagave.com 5.7 SPECTACULAR6.