THE CELEBRATION ISSUE
Celebrating the Season with 15 Fascinating Faces of 2020
What a unique year it’s been, to say the least! From shut downs and
travel bans, to quarantines and eLearning, the year 2020 is for sure
one that many of us will leave far behind. Yet, through it all, for many
residents this year was a time for perseverance, clarity and repurpose.
For some, the shut down brought a renewed lifestyle allowing them to
focus on what’s most important, giving more time to spend with their
family. For many business owners it meant pivoting from their well-
known path, and focusing on rebuilding while traveling outside of their
comfort zone. For sure, it’s been an interesting time for most.
Through the year, amid the chaos presented by COVID-19, we have
met countless residents who have stayed positive, helping others along
the way. From our Glancing the Gallant stories shared last Spring, to
this month’s 15 Fascinating Faces of the Year, each has
a telling story to share about their triumphs and
genuine love for their community during what
has been a wildly unprecedented time.
Wishing you and yours all the best this
holiday season and always! Thank you for
your readership.
Lindy Kleivo
Publishing Director, West Suburban Area
lkleivo@glancermagazine.com
DECEMBER 20
5 Hello From Glancer Magazine
9 5 Things to Do
11 COVER 15 Fascinating Faces
34 Dining & Cocktails Holiday Style
36 10 Trends In Giving Back
38 Meet Realtor, Penny O’Brien
39 Happy to Be NeighborsIn Naperville
40 Trendy Traveler: Riviera Maya
42 Unique In Suburbia: Harvey’s Tales
44 Million Dollar Listing In Sugar Grove
48 To Give, To Inspire: Wrapped In ♥
50 Kid Stuff: Holiday Fun for Everyone
53 Literary Local: Colleen LeMaire
54 Dental News
55 Healthy Living
56 Fitness with H4 Training
57 Mom’s Little Black Book
58 2020 Holiday Gift Guide
64 Wedding Essentials
65 V Fusion Studio Invites You In
66 Business of the Year
68 7 Spectacular Places Multi-Vendor
Shops to Support this Season
Follow Us In Social Media and
Share this Month’sCaptivating
Features
TABLE OF CONTENTS
T E A M G L A N C E R
PUBLISHER
Glancer Magazine, Inc.
PUBLISHING DIRECTOR
Lindy Kleivo
EDITORIAL | Print + Digital
Kristen Kucharski Columnist / Writer
Mindy Kyle Columnist / Writer
Brianna Bartemeyer Features Writer
Stephanie Schmoker Dining Critic
Tiffany Schmoker Dining Critic
SALES / MARKETING
Lindy Kleivo Publishing Director
PHOTOGRAPHY
Mike Catuara Features Photographer
P U B L I C A T I O N S
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DECEMBER 2020 | Vol 19
The Celebration Issue
One of our most anticipated issues of the
year, celebrating the season along with 15
Fascinating Faces of the Year. Special
thanks to our advertisers who made this
issue possible. Subscribe today for daily,
weeky and monthly updates at
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All Rights Reserved
Glancer Magazine, Inc.
Glancer Magazine • DECEMBER 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 5
DDEECCEEMMBBEERR 22002200
8 • WESTERN SUBURBS • DECEMBER 2020 • Glancer Magazine
1. Wheaton Christmas Lights
WHEATON–Enjoy this amazing Christmas
light display with over 45,000 lights all syn-
chronized to music located in Wheaton
at 911 W Evergreen Street. Tune in to
102.5FM. Opening Night - Sunday,
December 6, 2020 and running
through January 1. The home-
owners raise money each year for
Muscular Dystrophy Association. If
you enjoy the lights, please help
them reach their goal. You can
leave a donation in our "blinking
donation box" located on the curb
or online on their facebook page
@wheatonchristmaslights
DECEMBER 2020
5 Things to Do
2. Oswego Christmas Walk Week
DEcember 5-12
OSWEGO–In lieu of the party on Main Street, Oswego is host-
ing a whole week of Christmas Walk festivities to keep spirits
bright this holiday season! Look forward to annual traditions like
the Cookie Walk, new holiday fun like care-avans straight to
your neighborhood, and a grand finale Christmas Drive-Thru
Celebration. Like the 2020 Christmas Walk Week event on
facebook today and visit www.oswegochristmaswalk.com
3. The Believe House
NAPERVILLE–Each year this home
invites residents to drive by and
enjoy a whimsical and festival light
display complete with characters
from yesteryear and more. The
static display is very traditional and
reminiscent of Christmas past and
loved by all.
www.believehouse.com
4. Chris Kringle Market • December 4-6 & 11-13
OTTAWA–Celebrate the season at the Chris Kringle Market December 4-6
& December 11-13. Held under the twinkling lights of the Jordan Block Park,
this Euro-inspired event brings local and international holiday traditions,
shopping and dining to historic downtown Ottawa, Illinois.
Glancer Magazine • DECEMBER 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 9
5. Mistletoe Market • December 12
BURR RIDGE–A one-day indoor holiday market will be held inside two
former store locations at the Burr Ridge Village Center from 9am-7pm on
Saturday, December 12. Each location will offer a variety of vendors that
will be selling everything from beauty and food to clothing and jewelry.
Hosted by Hosted by Burr Ridge Village Center and Edwards Realty Com-
pany. No admission fee for customers to attend the market and we will be
limiting the number of people allowed in. Masks required.
12 • WESTERN SUBURBS • NOVEMBERR 2020 • Glancer Magazine
10 • WESTERN SUBURBS • DECEMBER 2020 • Glancer Magazine
Benny White
NAPERVILLE–Benny’s commitment to his country began many years
before he was the first Black elected to Naperville’s City Council. He
is a Retired Lieutenant Colonel of the United States Army, as well as
the Department Chair/Senior Army Instructor at Joliet West High
School JROTC.
The words of John Lewis have never meant more to Benny than they
have this past year after witnessing the murder of George Floyd.
Do not get lost in a sea of despair. Be hopeful, be optimistic. Our
struggle is not the struggle of a day, a week, a month, or a year, it is
the struggle of a lifetime. Never, ever be afraid to make some noise
and get in good trouble, necessary trouble.
As a Black man and father of two Black kids, he was in a lot of pain
and worried about the place he has called home for the past 15 years.
He felt compelled to be a voice and sounding board for the Naperville
residents.
Earlier this year, Benny marched alongside Mayor Chirico and other
peaceful protestors, personally stopping at different places to listen
to passionate speeches from community members who expressed
their sadness and frustration at the injustices they witnessed or had
experienced firsthand. At each stop, he joined many in taking a knee
to remember the 8 minutes and 46 seconds that the Minneapolis po-
lice officer knelt on Mr. Floyd’s neck. Benny also shared his personal
experiences and encouraged people to continue to take the peaceful
path forward and reminded them that in order to create change, more
needed to get involved in their community by joining civic organiza-
tions, local government commissions and committees.
“We have made tremendous strides in our community to mitigate
inappropriate behavior when it comes to diversity and inclusion,”
Benny says proudly. “I was glad to have had a hand in having lan-
guage added to the City’s mission statement that now includes, an
inclusive community that values diversity.”
He and the council also recently approved the creation of a Human
Rights & Fair Housing Commission, and are currently in the process
of hiring a Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Manager. Benny encour-
ages members of the Naperville community to challenge their own
biases, confront their inner circles when inappropriate things are said,
and to discuss and learn from one another while getting involved in
organizations that are trying to make a difference in our community.
Be a voice by joining organizations like Naperville Neighbors United,
Unity Partnership, Indivisible Naperville, Naper Pride, and the Nap-
erville Interfaith Leaders Association and join him in being a part of
the solution.
Glancer Magazine • DECEMBER 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 11
Each December we feature 15
Fascinating Faces of the Year
,
highlighting west suburban residents
who are making a difference in the lives
around them. Each story is inspiring in
its own unique way. We are honored to
announce our list for 2020 and are
grateful to be given this opportunity to
share these stories.
Stories by Kristen Kucharski
Photos by Mike Catuara
12 • WESTERN SUBURBS • DECEMBER 2020 • Glancer Magazine
Diya Sudhagar
NAPERVILLE–At only 11 years old, 6th grader Diya Sudhagar used
her time wisely during the global pandemic to start a blog, DiyaDia-
mondTalks.blogspot.com. She likes to write about her observations,
thoughts, or just about anything she is feeling. Many of her topics
are based on everyday life such as e-learning in middle school, fa-
vorite restaurants, book reviews, and cooking with her family. She
has a passion for new planets and sea animals, as well as enjoys
sharing the simple joys of apple picking and making slime.
Diya believes in "being happy with what you have while working to-
ward what you want" and has used the time permitted through the
pandemic lockdown to focus on the things she loves such as
reading, writing, singing, sketching, and staying connected to her
Indian culture through Hindustani Classical Music and Bharatana-
tyam (an Indian classical dance form).
Reading the blogs through the eyes of a middle schooler is a re-
freshing end to an unsettling year.
Glancer Magazine • DECEMBER 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 13
16 • WESTERN SUBURBS • DECEMBER 2020 • Glancer Magazine
ON THE COVER
Dan Polizzi
OSWEGO/AURORA–eing a Firefighter and
Paramedic during a pandemic has been a
tough struggle for Dan who is a 12-year vet-
eran of the Aurora Fire Department. Find-
ing the balance of doing the best job he
can to help people, while not infecting his
close family and friends has been one
tough battle.
He is used to working hard and manag-
ing high levels of stress as a member of
the Tactical Rescue Team, Dive Rescue
Team, and the Special Response Team
with the Aurora Police as a TEMS (Tactical
Emergency Medical Services) Medic. His en-
tire life he has been an active - always involved
in sports such as football, baseball, wrestling, ice
hockey, MMA, motocross, snowboarding, water skiing,
wakeboarding, skateboarding, rock climbing, soccer, box-
ing, and skydiving to name just a few; so it should come as no
surprise that he competed in the last seven seasons of NBC’s
American Ninja Warrior.
Dan was inspired by spirited reality shows,
such as Sasuke to apply online to Ameri-
can Ninja Warrior submitting a ques-
tionnaire and video showcasing his
talents. He earned a spot in Sea-
son 5 and beat the qualifying
course. Although he missed
moving on to the Vegas finals,
Dan came away with a very
strong training partner, Bran-
don Mears who he met in Bal-
timore and discovered they
were both firefighters in Illinois.
The two became known as the
“Towers of Powers” and have
competed in every season since.
“Ninja Warrior started out as a per-
sonal goal in the beginning, something
I aspired to conquer for myself; but now
Ninja Warrior has become so much more,”
Dan says. “After seeing how much competing can
inspire others and motivate kids to be active, I try to lead by ex-
ample and be the best role model possible.”
Glancer Magazine • DECEMBER 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 17
John Cebulski
AURORA–In a year dominated by
COVID-19, riots, and elections, we
quickly forget life changing moments
that happened just a year earlier
such as the Henry Pratt Shooting in
Aurora in 2019.
Husband and father of four, avid
coach for his children’s’ sports,
garden enthusiast, and local
league softball player, Officer John
Cebulski was first on the scene,
taking the back end of the diamond
to ensure no one comes from behind
as they searched the building that was
filled with boxes and crates providing un-
limited hiding spots for the shooter. As more
shots were fired, the team split and Officer Ce-
bulski turned into a stairway yelling Aurora Police;
however, before he could finish the word Aurora - he had been
shot - a .40 caliber round went through his knee cap breaking the
femur and resting in the back of his knee.
It has been over a year now and he has
since retired from Aurora Police Depart-
ment. When he starts to feel sorry for
himself, he recalls the words a priest
once told him; ‘if you get depressed,
go work at a homeless shelter; that
will cure your depression.’ He is
continually inspired by all the good
he sees even as 32 years of law en-
forcement attempted to chip away at
his innocence.
While 2020 has been a challenging
year unlike any other, he also feels it
has also been an opportunity to show
our children that “while some things in life
will be out of your control, you can still adjust
your sails and travel bravely on.”
18 • WESTERN SUBURBS • DECEMBER 2020 • Glancer Magazine
Linda Cheatham
WHEATON–With the help of over 2600
volunteers, People’s Resource
Center (PRC) has been bringing
neighbors together to respond to
hunger and poverty in DuPage
County since 1975. So, in March
when everything was shut down
and people were encouraged to
stay at home, Director of Opera-
tions Linda Cheatham with other
PRC senior leaders needed to
swiftly react and redesign how to
continue delivering food and social
services while also creating a safe
space for employees and volunteers to
continue working on site.
Managing and leading during a world-wide crisis
is a huge challenge, especially when compiled with
ensuring mental and emotional needs are being
met both at home and work.
“We’ve Got This,” has been a motto
Linda has carried from her family of
six in Oak Park to the thousands
working at PRC in Wheaton. To-
gether, they have filled over
24,000 cars with food and man-
aged 3,800 calls for financial and
social services assistance this
year.
Although it has been challenging
to adapt to modified services while
working at a distance, Linda feels
proud that they are successfully still
responding to basic human needs while
promoting dignity and justice, and creating
a future of hope for the community even in the
midst of a pandemic.
Glancer Magazine • DECEMBER 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 19
22 • WESTERN SUBURBS • DECEMBER 2020 • Glancer Magazine
Mary Garcia
OSWEGO/AURORA–Mary is a
United States Navy Veteran and a
part time dental hygienist. She
loves to sing karaoke and spend
time outdoors with her husband
and five children. She is also the
President of My Daughter's
Dress Boutique in Aurora, a non-
for-profit organization providing
free formalwear to financially
qualified customers because she
believes no one should miss a spe-
cial occasion because they can’t af-
ford it.
She lives by the words of Dolly Parton, "If
you want the rainbow, you gotta put up with the
rain;” which are the very words that got her
through the rioting and vandalism that
erupted mid-2020 and damaged her
store.
Seeing the glass shattered all over
the sidewalk and witnessing the
community boarding up her win-
dows with messages of hope
while watching a city come to-
gether as a whole brought a tre-
mendous amount of relief and
much needed optimism to a year
that has proven almost impossible
to keep her doors open.
Giving up means letting someone else
down - and she won't allow herself to do
that!
Glancer Magazine • DECEMBER 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 21
Raymond Rogina
ST. CHARLES–After five decades of public service as an educator
at St. Charles East High School and Aurora University, as well as
Mayor of St. Charles for two terms, Ray Rogina is not seeking re-
election, but rather plans to enjoy his wife, son, daughter-in-law,
and grandson while reflecting in writing about a diary he has main-
tained for the past 10 years.
In his own words, 2020 has been “A year of challenge and resil-
iency. A year of pain and discovery. A year to reshape one’s think-
ing,” and Ray has appreciated the challenge of balancing an
economic crisis with a health crisis while participating in a number
of development issues in the city that will set the stage for future
positive growth.
He has hopes that 2021 and beyond will include visiting the re-
maining four States he has yet to see and more of Europe; perhaps
complete his 16th marathon; add a fourth newspaper to his list of
daily reads; watch a lot of baseball; and deepen his impact in the
community through non-profit organizations in the Fox Valley area.
.
Glancer Magazine • DECEMBER 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 25
24 • WESTERN SUBURBS • DECEMBER 2020 • Glancer Magazine
Jeremie Bacon
LEMONT–The Forge: Lemont Quarries represents all the
things co-owner, Jeremie loves in life – Exhilarating activities,
Educational opportunities, and Entertaining events. It’s an
adventure park, a concert and outdoor movie venue, a grab-
and-go eatery, and a group outing/training/learning facility.
However, navigating a worldwide pandemic while opening a
new 300-acre playground was a journey he did not anticipate
when they began dreaming up the idea back in 2014; bought
land in 2016; broke ground in 2019; and targeted a late-May
2020 opening.
Jeremie thoroughly enjoys the challenge of entrepreneurship.
After all, he is also the founder of KonvergAR, an augmented
reality design studio, Board Director or Strategic Advisor to a
number of for-profit and non-profit companies like 1871, i.c.
stars, DMI, Dynamo Software, Tradespoon, and Goodpix
among others. He also enjoys working with and investing in
young companies that are making strides to change their in-
dustries. A few of his favorites include Ocient, Tradespoon,
Songfinch, and Brainchase.
He feels beyond fortunate that they were able to open The
Forge: Lemont Quarries on July 17, 2020, shortly after their
original target date. Although COVID-19 has impacted every
aspect of The Forge’s business model, they were able to re-
spond in real-time to the rapidly evolving circumstances im-
pacting their operation; and as people continue looking for
COVID-friendly ways to get outside – even in the cold –
things like Forgefire Globe Dining, a high-end outdoor dining
experience, has been an unexpected offering that has been
a big hit and that will remain as part of the lineup for years to
come.
Jeremie personifies the words of Dave Grohl, “If there’s one
thing I’m good at, it's gathering people together to do some-
thing fun.”
Work is very exciting for him because he loves the challenge
of thinking outside-the-box. With four active kids and an in-
credible wife, he enjoys being very busy; but, also appreci-
ates time to sit and read a good book, sing his favorite songs,
volunteer in the community, and compete in triathlons and
adventure races.
Nothing seems to slow Jeremie down. For him, life is all about
finding the possible in impossible!
Glancer Magazine • NOVEMBER 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 23
Glancer Magazine • DECEMBER 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 25
Randy Witt
YORKVILLE–“Life is a journey of faith and sometimes it is
hard - and even though we are in a hard season, we have
to keep our faith,” says Randy Witt, Owner/Operator of Rag-
ing Waves. “I have a saying on my desk that reads, the
most persistent choice you face today is to trust me (the
Lord) or to worry. I work every day to trust the Lord through
it all.”
Although he likens 2020 to a piñata disguised as a hornets
nest, Randy credits his strong faith and deep roots to Mis-
sion Church in Bloomingdale, his 34 year marriage to his
wife Dawn, his hard working children Sterling and Ally, and
the amazing west suburban community for the continued
success of his twenty year waterpark dream.
Not knowing if they would be able to open this past summer
was extremely stressful as 2020 was expected to be a
banner year for them with the addition of new attractions
and more paved parking. They had invested a lot financially
into park improvements and when COVID-19 hit, it felt like
the rug had gotten pulled from under their feet.
“It was devastating,” Randy shares. “I would look at our
managers and feel a great responsibility to figure out how
to continue to provide for them. They have been so loyal
and I could not let them down. Through it all I knew, God
has always taken care of us, so although I was concerned,
I knew He would provide a way through this season also.
When we found out we would be able to open at on July
10th, it was such a blessing! We knew every day open was
a gift – we did not take that for granted.”
Although operating a clean and safe 58-acre waterpark is
more than a full-time job, Randy tries to decompress via
long hikes with his pup Cooper, golf at local courses, short
track stock car races, and dinner at Bub City in Rosemont.
He feels we will all get through this together and hopes we
all continue to support one another, be kind, show grace and
enjoy all the ‘wins’ through tough times.
26 • WESTERN SUBURBS • DECEMBER 2020 • Glancer Magazine
Glancer Magazine • DECEMBER 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 27
Dr. Hank Thiele
DOWNERS GROVE / ROSELLE–One of the most stressful
days for a superintendent is deciding if they should cancel
school on snow days because each and every time you get it
wrong in someone’s eyes.
“That is every day this year,” Dr. Thiele, Superintendent of Com-
munity High School District 99 in Downers Grove says. “Every
day is a snow day”.
In his fifth year leading the district, Dr. Thiele diligently spear-
heads his decisions by leaning on the values taught to him by
his grandfather – hard work with a solid foundation of careful
and deliberate thinking, combined with self-reflection.
In the midst of a world-wide pandemic, when decisions feel life
altering, he remembers to take his time to ensure a well thought
out decision that is truly in the best interest of his staff and stu-
dents while honoring his allegiance to in-person learning.
“Our society has been built around having students in school.
That is where all of their supports are: their teachers, friends,
counselors, coaches, and other trusted adults. For some of our
students it is where they get food and for others it is the one
place,
they can escape abuse and be in a safe environment,” he
shares. “Almost everyone remembers an adult in school that
made a difference in their life - they find and make those con-
nections here at school. The uncertainty and lack of that envi-
ronment is causing high levels of stress and I feel like that stress
is reduced when students can safely be at school.”
It's a tough topic that carries a great deal of responsibility gar-
nering overwhelming emotions for even the strongest leader;
so, Dr. Thiele ensures to decompress with his wife, Annel and
children Maria (20) and Henry (14). He also stays actively in-
volved in his hometown of Roselle as a baseball coach and a
volunteer for the Lake Park Marching Band Parents Auxiliary.
He remembers to continually find the good points even in the
worst times because there is always opportunity to look back
and find the unexpected growth, newfound connection, or the
value of accrued education along the way.
“I try to take note of all those while we are in our darkest times,”
he says. “That way I can benefit from them when I need it
most.”
28 • WESTERN SUBURBS • DECEMBER 2020 • Glancer Magazine
Nick Scarpino
NAPERVILLE–An age ole Thanks-
giving decoration has become the
icon of a new children’s book en-
titled, Why Do We Eat Turkey
on Thanksgiving?
Nick Scarpino of Naperville had
always loved the oil painting his
86-year old grandmother created
over 15 years ago, so he asked if
he could write a book about the
history of Thanksgiving using her
drawings of Hurkey the Turkey as illus-
trations.
As the Senior Vice President of Marketing and
Off-Premise Dining at Portillo's Hot Dogs based in Oak
Brook, Nick had previously published a book in 2013 called
"Hey Marketers, Get Your Priorities Straight" and developed
a kids' card game called "What's Wild?!" in 2006. His grand-
mother, Marlene Turner had no previous professional experi-
ence, but has always been an active artist.
The two collaborated during the Coronavirus pandemic of
2020, requiring them to work together over Zoom since
Marlene and her husband live in Iowa,
and Nick lives in Naperville with his
wife and four children.
The book tells the story of the
many influences behind the tradi-
tional Thanksgiving turkey. It ref-
erences Benjamin Franklin,
George Washington, Abraham
Lincoln, and Sarah Josepha
Hale, among others. It provides
kids with a historical, but still ap-
proachable and entertaining poem
about the roots of an American tradi-
tion. Turner’s illustrations bring the
story behind the history to life and all pro-
ceeds from the sales of the book will be do-
nated to No Kid Hungry - an organization that
seeks to eliminate hunger in the United States and
abroad.
“We had fun exploring the history behind turkey as our
Thanksgiving meal,” Nick says. “But throughout the process,
we were constantly aware that there are far too many chil-
dren in this country who need better access to nutritious
food.”
Nick and his grandma are thankful for their many blessings
and look forward to sharing with others.
Glancer Magazine • DECEMBER 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 29
Josie Mattern
ST. CHARLES/WHEATON–In March, when the world came
to a standstill, Josie, the DuPagePads Volunteer Coordi-
nator, and her team built a new housing program overnight.
They moved over 100 families and individuals into hotel
rooms as a part of their new Emergency Housing (Hotel)
program, so everyone had a safe place to stay at “home”.
Her job changed from spending most of her day behind the
computer coordinating where volunteers were needed, re-
cruiting new volunteers, and maintaining relationships with
current volunteers to finding non-perishable food to support
the people in hotels.
“We transformed our Client Service Center into a food pan-
try,” she says. “Volunteers have been a part of every step-
helping with donations, sanitizing, and packing food for the
people we serve; and at the beginning of November, we re-
opened our Interim Housing program, to serve even more
people.”
Josie is so honored to work with over 4000 volunteers who
help provide shelter 365 nights a year to over 200 people in
the Emergency and Interim Housing programs, delivering
600 meals a day!
It is a job that can consume 24-hours of the day, but she
takes time to unwind at home with her three cats, Chia,
Camper, and Keeper, as well as her newfound quarantine
hobby of baking. With the holidays approaching she hopes
people will remember to grab an extra package of Ramen
Noodles, Ravioli, can of soup, or microwavable, non-perish-
able food item to donate to DuPagePads or checkout other
opportunities at volunteer.dupagepads.org, for ways to get
involved. In a job that never sleeps, Josie is always recruit-
ing awesome people.
30• WESTERN SUBURBS • DECEMBER 2020 • Glancer Magazine
Emily Johnson
YORKVILLE–Being the Executive Direc-
tor of Cedarhurst Senior Living in York-
ville has been an incredibly stressful
job in 2020 trying to keep residents
safe and healthy while living up to
their mission of “creating com-
munities where each person feels
loved, valued, supported and able
to live life to the fullest.”
It’s hard to live a full life when you
can’t leave your room or receive
visits from those you love most, so
when a Cuddle Curtain in the United
Kingdom had popped up on her social
media news feed, Emily knew without a
doubt that they needed one at Cedarhurst.
“There has been plenty of research around the need and
benefits for physical touch for most humans, and a cuddle is
the best way to achieve many of those results,” Emily says.
“Our seniors here have been fantastic in staying quarantined
and protecting themselves and others, so it’s
more important now than ever that we can
reconnect them with their families and
include physical touch in a loving, yet
safe way.”
Emily enlisted the help of Yorkville
local, Jeremy King who is the
son of 80-year-old resident
Rose King and had not been
able to hug his mom in more
than 8 months at the time of the
request. Prior to the pandemic,
Rose would get almost daily visits
from several different members of
her family and it was very important
to her and her health to keep those
bonds.
When they had finished the Cuddle Curtain,
Rose was the first resident to reconnect physically
with her family and was overwhelmed with emotion by the ex-
perience therefore overcoming one of the biggest challenges
of 2020.
Glancer Magazine • DECEMBER 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 31
Festive Fun at Fiamme
NAPERVILLE–One of Downtown Naperville’s greatest favor-
ites, Fiamme is known for Italian cuisine at it’s simplest, yet fi-
nest. With ingredients imported and prepared fresh daily,
resulting in optimal taste and quality. Always striving to offer
the best tasting gluten-free alternatives to all of their pizzas and
pastas, families come from all over to enjoy their unique menu.
The dairy-free handmade pizza dough provides a menu that is
friendly to all vegans and vegetarians as well. Fiamme has a
unique and diverse wine list, complimenting all ranges of tastes
and preferences, with an extensive and ever-growing craft beer
list.
Fiammé also has a Loyalty Rewards Program that gets you
10% rewards on every purchase. Now open in Lincolnshire.
Located at 19 North Washington Street, Downtown Naperville.
www.fiammepizza.com
DINING DELIGHTS
WEST SUBURBAN DINING
DINING
DINING + COCKTAILS
34 • WESTERN SUBURBS • DECEMBER 2020 • Glancer Magazine
DINING + COCKTAILS
CCoocckkttaaiillss
Get Hugo’s Frog Bar on Your Calendar
Loved by Many and For Scrumptious Reason
NAPERVILLE–Maybe you can’t meet currently, but now’s the perfect
time to get Hugo’s on your calendar for a post-holiday toast to celebrate
the season. With an extensive wine & cocktail list, including the Espresso
Martini, Hugo’s menu boasts fresh seafood options daily. It is Naperville’s
destination spot for fresh oysters, crudos, frog legs, lobster and fish, plus
Prime Angus steaks and chops. Don’t forget to view their impressive sig-
nature dessert menu. www.hugosfrogbar.com
Niche Geneva Cocktail Kits are a Big Hit
What a Perfect Idea
GENEVA–Cocktail kits! You read that right, cocktail essentials to-go. We're
excited that @nicherestaurant will be utilizing their Spiced Cranberry ginger
brews and @buffalotrace in their kits so you can enjoy Windmill and Niche
at home! How awesomely amazing is that?
www.nichegeneva.com
‘Tis the Season to Head to Two Hound Red
Beer & Wine Specials All Season Long
GLEN ELLYN–Visit Two Hound Red in downtown Glen Ellyn every Wednesday
in December for $15 growler fills and $8 howler fills of the beer ofyour choice. For
the non-beer drinkers they have HALF price bottles of wine EVERY day ALL
MONTH long. Consider it their gift to you! And speaking of gifts, don’t forget a
Two Hound Red gift card for the PERFECT present for that special someone. Buy
$100 in Two Hound gift cards and receive one for $25! www.2houndred.com
DINING
Glancer Magazine • DECEMBER 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 35
10
#1 | Families Helping Families
www.famhelpingfam.org
This local non-profit organization provides apartments and volunteer mentors to
homeless families in DuPage County while they are working to reclaim their lives
through education. A donation of only $30 will pay one day's rent and utilities for a
family. Families Helping Families has no administrative expenses, so every dollar
they raise is a dollar that helps the homeless.
#2 | Palumbo Family Foundation
www.palumbofoundation.org
The Palumbo Family Foundation strives to make a difference in two sectors of our
communities in the Chicagoland area. One is providing scholarships to well de-
serving students of lower income families. Without scholarships, many of these
students would not realize their dream of furthering their education. The other is
providing medical grants to organizations that serve the needs of local medically
challenged children. The Palumbo Family Foundation is a 501(c) 3 nonprofit char-
itable organization. The administration of the foundation is all volunteers; a 100%
of the net proceeds of donations and fundraising events give hope and inspiration
to young adults looking for financial help to continue their education after high
school; as well as children with medical needs.
TRENDS
Trends In
Giving Back
Locally
10 TRENDS 2020
36 • WESTERN SUBURBS • DECEMBER 2020 • Glancer Magazine
CREATIVE MARKETING
STRATEGIES
PENNY O’BRIEN – One word that
consistently comes to clients’ minds
when they think of Penny O’Brien is
“hustle.” As a Seller Representative
Specialist, she loves meeting with sellers
to discuss pre-market home improvements
and guide them to make their home “showtime
ready” when it hits the market. She strongly believes in professional staging
and offers it as a complimentary service. With a reputation for “good-looking
listings,” she helps clients realize a higher return and quicker sale. Penny
says “Staging transforms a home from average to amazing”.
Penny O'Brien Broker
Relocation Specialist / Negotiation Expert
(630) 207-7001 • penny.obrien@bairdwarner.com
Read Penny’s Local Industry
Expert Column at www.GlancerMagazine.com
PPeennnnyy OO’’BBiieenn
38 • WESTERN SUBURBS • DECEMBER 2020 • Glancer Magazine
18 • WESTERN SUBURBS • JULY 2020 • Glancer Magazine
Glancer Magazine • DECEMBER 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 39
REAL ESTATE
A HEARTWARMING STORY ABOUT
A LIFE SAVING NEIGHBOR
Did you know that 52% of young adults
currently live with their parents? This
number has been steadily rising since the
1960s. One of the resulting benefits of this
trend is watching neighborhood kids be-
come adults. That has certainly been the
case for Steve and Kathy Kalkofen, as
they’ve watched Michelle To grow into a
caring, wonderful young woman.
Since 2002, the To and Kalkofen families
have enjoyed many shared memories in
Naperville. With five children between the
two households, there were countless birthday celebrations, sleep-
overs, pool parties, trick-or-treat adventures and school events. This
past spring, Michelle returned home after completing her Doctorate
of Pharmacy from the University of Rhode Island. While a blessing
for Michelle’s family, it proved to be a blessing for the Kalkofens too.
On May 2, 2020, Steve and Kathy Kal-
kofen were outside enjoying a beautiful
night by the fire. Abruptly, it became ap-
parent that Steve was in medical dis-
tress. Michelle, her boyfriend and
younger sister were in their backyard en-
joying a bonfire as well, when they heard
Kathy yell for 911. Without pause, they
hopped a 6-foot fence and rushed to as-
sist. Michelle knew CPR and immedi-
ately began chest compressions until the
paramedics arrived. It was later discov-
ered that Steve suffered from Hyper-
trophic Cardiomyopathy. Due to the
kindness and swift-decision-making from
EMTs, police/fire departments, doctors, nurses and Michelle, Steve
survived.
It’s true, 2020 has not been what any of us have wanted - but, it has
been a reminder to be grateful for what we have. Grateful for family,
for our health ... and for great neighbors.
COMMUNITY LIVING
by Brianna Bartemeyer
Photos Submitted
Best
Neighbors
Ev!
40 • WESTERN SUBURBS • NOVEMBER 2020 • Glancer Magazine
TRENDY TRAVELER
TrendY
Hotel Xcaret Mexico Offers Rich Experiences to
Reconnect With Nature and Local Heritage Through
Its Eco-Integrating Architecture
RIVIERA MAYA, MEXICO– As travel begins to make a grad-
ual comeback, a common trend amongst those who have re-
sumed travel is vacations that incorporate authentic
experiences respective and reflective of the natural environ-
ment. Situated by the lush Riviera Maya jungle, Hotel Xcaret
Mexico invites travelers to reconnect with nature through its
unique, eco-integrating architecture, combining natural ele-
ments with an unparalleled aesthetic.
HOTEL XCARET MEXICO
Equal parts style and substance, the eco-driven property
features 900 spacious suites, multiple swimming pools,
world-class spa, and 12 distinct dining destinations, includ-
ing Ha' Restaurant led by Michelin star Chef Carlos Gaytán,
an adults-only restaurant with its own surcharge. Ad-
ditionally, thanks to its All-Fun Inclusive® concept, guests to
Hotel Xcaret Mexico have access to Grupo Xcaret's nature
parks and tours and are privy to airport transfers, concierge
services, unlimited Wi-Fi, among other perks.
An Authentic
Environmental
Experience
Traveler
Glancer Magazine • DECEMBER 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 41
TRENDY TRAVELER
Additionally, the AAA Five-diamond re-
sort features carefully curated archi-
tecture and decor in every corner
of the property, aimed at greet-
ing guests with an eco-para-
dise ideal for feeling
harmonic with nature. Below
are some ways guests at
Hotel Xcaret Mexico can ex-
perience an eco-conscious
stay once they're ready to
travel:
Visit the beautiful cenotes,
caves and playones incorpo-
rated throughout the property. Be-
fore entering the cenotes, guests
must take part in a small ceremony
where they ask the Aluxes (mischievous
mythical creatures) for their blessing, offering guests a
one-of-a-kind experience.
Indulge in a treatment at the hotel's Muluk Spa. Its ex-
tensive facilities include massage cabins nestled in
stone caves of natural rock facing the river, sauna and
steam rooms, hot and cold-water tubs and more. Guests
staying at the property can choose from many options
including the "Copal Purification" treatment, part of the
spa's many "Mayan Journey" offerings inspired in an-
cient techniques of the Mesoamerican natives and that
use regional products such as honey and cocoa.
Swing on Mayan inspired and made
hammocks found in the balconies of
every suite. Made of nylon or cot-
ton, these carefully designed
hammocks are made using
wooden needles and frames,
with each color representing
a feeling based on Mexican
folklore; while pink repre-
sents happiness, yellow rep-
resents hope.
Stroll around Hotel Xcaret
Mexico to appreciate the 120
one-of-a-kind whimsical soplones
- or wind gods - that grace the walls
of the hotel, made from wood by local
family artisans in Oaxaca and inspired by
the region's native huichol art. For those
seeking to connect with nature through art, miniature
versions are for sale at the hotel's store.
At Hotel Xcaret Mexico, each design is strategically
placed throughout the property which allows guests to
connect with nature and appreciate the authentic culture
of Mexico. In addition to its nature-centric offerings,
Grupo Xcaret recently debuted its 360 Xafety protocol
guide, which includes 1,300 actions that are being im-
plemented to carefully disinfect the hotel, parks and
tours to ensure the safety of visitors, guests, employees
and collaborators.
Hotel Xcaret Mexico
www.hotelxcaret.com/en/
HARVEY’S TALES
Why did multitasking become a sought-after skill to
master? It’s been proven to lower productivity and
increase stress levels. In this fast-paced world, we
are constantly stimulated by our digital environment
- navigating back-and-forth between social media
platforms, emails, apps, Zoom meetings and online
shopping. Finding ways to unplug, de-stress, pause
… and focus are vital. In fact, there is a particular
hobby that improves cognitive skills, memory, empa-
thy and knowledge - it’s not age bias, gender bias or
subject bias … and it’s habitual for highly successful
people. It’s reading.
Two years ago, Harvey’s Tales in Geneva opened its doors. Built in
the 1860s, this historic home was originally known as the Cory
House. It has since been converted to a restaurant, Christmas store,
needlepoint shop and now charming bookstore in the heart of Down-
town Geneva’s Shopping District.
Fun fact - it’s rumored to be haunted! The name, Har-
vey’s Tales, was an opportunity to honor the owner’s
late, beloved Bernese Mountain Dog (Harvey). This
beautifully-renovated-and-independent bookstore com-
bines a love of family, books, dogs and community.
As you browse the shelves, be sure to check out the
banned/challenged book room, true crime closet and
Hazel’s House (children’s book room). Enjoy a drink from
its in-house coffee bar - the Chocolate Chai and Snick-
erdoodle Latte are seasonal favorites. And it’s annual
Wish Tree display, supporting Anderson Animal Shelter,
creates a unique opportunity for bookshop goers to do-
nate ‘wish list’ items to the shelter during this season of giving. Forget
the Instastories this holiday and unwrap a gift that keeps on giving -
time to transport yourself in an actual story. #bluelightfreefun
Watch for Unique In Suburbia in each monthly issue of Glancer Magazine.
UNIQUE IN SUBURBIA
by Brianna Bartemeyer
Photos Submitted
UNIQUE
in Suburbia
42 • WESTERN SUBURBS • DECEMBER 2020 • Glancer Magazine
Glancer Magazine • DECEMBER 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 43
UNIQUE
Rich In History
Two years ago, Harvey’s Tales in
Geneva opened its doors. Built in
the 1860s, this historic home was
originally known as the Cory House
and has since been the location for
many different types of businesses.
MILLION
DOLLAR
lliissttiinngg
Your majestic oasis awaits. Ready to
escape the hustle of everyday life? This
incredible home has 1/3 acre swimming
pond with 3 waterfalls in prestigious
Strafford Woods in Sugar Grove. This
picturesque residence is dressed to impress
with its bold exterior design & stunning
finishes. Simply stated, it's AMAZING!
$1,370,000
6bed • 6.5bath
8,840sqft • 2.93 acres
500 Fairlee Ct, Sugar Grove, IL
(630) 391-4882
Presented by:
Cathy Peters
Brokered by:
RE/MAX All Pro
44 • WESTERN SUBURBS • DECEMBER 2020 • Glancer Magazine
MILLION
DOLLAR
MILLION DOLLAR LISTING
Unique & Beautiful
Top quality materials & craftsmanship
include Oklahoma Stone granite
boulders inside & out, local artisan
forged wrought iron rails, repurposed
125 year old Maple Park, IL, barn
wood beams, local Amish-made knotty
alder 8 ft. arched doors, Australian cy-
press all natural flooring plus so much
more!
Glancer Magazine • DECEMBER 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 45
46 • WESTERN SUBURBS • DECEMBER 2020 • Glancer Magazine
PERSONABLE, ENERGETIC & CREATIVE
REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL
SUSAN COLELLA OF BAIRD & WARNER
This proud Naperville resident shares that helping local sellers and
buyers doesn’t feel like work making it easy to be dedicated and re-
sults oriented When she is hired to list a home she gains much of
the marketing inspiration from her sellers when she asks “ what do
you love about your home?” From there she designs high end cus-
toms booklets with professional photography & drone shots, de-
scriptions of updates, & develops unique ways to target the right
buyers on the internet. Restyling her listings with professional stag-
ing , 3D tours great for out of state buyers and constant follow up
with all parties are all included for her recipe of success! Susan is
currently meeting with sellers & buyers now in anticipation of a thriv-
ing Spring market~ Call luxury listing agent Susan Colella anytime
to discuss your real estate goals for 2020.
Susan Colella, Baird & Warner, (630) 946-3813
Susan Colella
Glancer Magazine • DECEMBER 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 47
COMMUNITY LIVING
To Give,
To Inspire
CARING + SHARING
A Monthly Caring + Sharing Column
48 • WESTERN SUBURBS • DECEMBER 2020 • Glancer Magazine
Oh, Christmas Tree!
Many hold the holiday tradi-
tion of cutting down their
own Christmas tree,
making it a fun family
holiday experience.
Many farms– some
near, some far– have
been busy building on
this experience by add-
ing other holiday events,
freebies and more. Visit
GlancerMagazine.com for a
complete list of where to go.
KID STUFF 2020
Glancer Magazine • DECEMBER 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 51
Bubble Bash In a Box
NAPERVILLE–Give the gift of a fun family celebration.
New Year’s Eve might look a little different this year, but
with DuPage Children’s Museum it can be a total blast! The
Museum brings the fun to your home with Bubble Bash in
a Box. Enjoy a box filled with fun games, festive maker ac-
tivities, and other celebratory surprises. In addition to your
box, you’ll receive special access to digital content includ-
ing musical performances, interactive art and maker vi-
deos, and a special countdown with DCM and friends.
www.dupagechildrens.org/bubble-bash
(630) 637-8000
Naper Settlement Wedding Showcase
January 16, 2021
NAPERVILLE–Naper Settlement’s Wedding Showcase on
January 16 features over 30 local vendors from every niche
of the bridal industry, including photographers, florists,
bakers, and more! In the historic setting of the Pre-Emption
House, Meeting House, and Century Memorial Chapel, cou-
ples will have one-on-one personal consultations with ven-
dors to help them plan their big day. A 90-minute timed entry
ticket is required for all guests. Tickets are available at 10-
11:50AM, 12:10-1:50PM, and 2:10-4PM. Register for tickets
at NaperSettlement.org/WeddingShowcase
52 • WESTERN SUBURBS • DECEMBER 2020 • Glancer Magazine
LITERARY
COMMUNITY LIVING
Give an
Experience
with a Naper-
ville Park Dis-
trict Gift Card!
NAPERVILLE–Looking for
the perfect holiday gift?
Give an experience with a
Naperville Park District
gift card! It’s a great solu-
tion for anyone on your
list. Reloadable gift cards
can be used at Centennial Beach, the Paddleboat Quarry,
Millennium Carillon and Fort Hill Activity Center. They also
may be used to enjoy pre-registered Park District programs
including golf lessons and personal training! Purchase today
in any denomination at Fort Hill Activity Center located at 20
Fort Hill Drive.
SAY “I DO”
Glancer Magazine • DECEMBER 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 53
by Mindy Kyle
Photos Submitted
Patricia Rockwell of Aurora
Firecrackered, a Cozy Cat Press Mystery
Local author and publisher Patricia Rockwell has spent the last ten
years creating a successful business in the light or “cozy” mystery
genre. Along with authoring two of her own cozy mystery series, her
publishing company, Cozy Cat Press, has helped publish over 50
authors with a combined 200+ titles in their catalog. Patricia has an
extensive background in academia, editing and publishing. She re-
ceived her doctorate from the University of Arizona and was a re-
searcher and Assistant Professor in the Department of
Communication at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette for four-
teen years before she retired.
Patricia’s most recent book, FIRECRACKERED, is the fifth in her
Essie Cobb senior sleuth mystery series, a series that was inspired
by her mom and her friends at an assisted living facility. The books
follow 90-year-old amateur sleuth Essie Cobb and her pals at the
Happy Haven Assisted Living Facility as they go on adventures and
solve mysteries. In FIRECRACKERED, Essie is determined to in-
vestigate why a random Fourth of July firework is shot on the front
lawn of the retirement home right where she and new resident,
Lester Mills are standing, hitting him in the keister. As he is being
taken to the hospital, she wonders was it really an accident? Or is
there something more sinister behind the explosion?
FIRECRACKERED can be found on Amazon, along with the other
four books in the Essie Cobb series – BINGOED, PAPOOSED, VAL-
ENTINED and GHOSTED.
KNOW A LOCAL AUTHOR?
We’d Love to Meet Them! Introduce
Us at editorial@glancermagazine.com
LITERAARRYY
local
LITERARY LOCALS
SAY “I DO”
FAMILY DENTISTRY WITH
A WIDE ARRAY OF SERVICES
Valley View Dental offers a full array of general dentistry services,
cosmetic dentistry, periodontal, dental implants, orthodontics
procedures, and oral surgery. This includes Invisalign, BOOST
Teeth Whitening, CEREC one-day crowns, and same-day emer-
gency visits guaranteed. With a large staff of bi-lingual doctors
and staff, on-site labs at each location, extended business and
weekend hours, Valley View Dental has the ability to treat pa-
tients according to their own schedules and convenience with all
Covid-19 precautions taken. Stop by and see why others in the
community have trusted Valley View Dental for over 20
years.most 20 years. Located In Naperville, Montgomery &
Romeoville. Valley View Dental www.vvdental.com
.
DDEENNTTAALL
HEALTH + WELLNESS
54 • WESTERN SUBURBS • DECEMBER 2020 • Glancer Magazine
SWING INTO ACTION AT SPRINGBROOK
AND NAPERBROOK GOLF COURSES
NAPERVILLE–Golf makes a great gift! Give the golfer in your life a gift card to
one of Naperville’s favorite golf courses. Soon it wil be time to enjoy golf again at
the Naperville Park District's two 18-hole golf courses. Come Springtime, Spring-
brook and Naperbrook will be ready for great weather, while offering challenging
golf and the best rates, practice time on the range and relaxation post-round on
our welcoming patios with food and drinks. Tee time reservations and more online.
Naperville Park District’s Springbrook & Naperbrook Golf Courses
www.golfnaperville.org
BEAUTIFY & RELAX
ST. CHARLES–Let this spa
help you disconnect and im-
prove your health, beauty and
relaxation with specialized
massages, meditation, in-
frared sauna, and reiki energy
work. Complete your visit with
a natural hair or nail treatment
to feel as beautiful outside as
you do inside.
Tranquility Spa
113 N. 2nd Ave., St. Charles
www.relaxattranquility.com
NUMBER ONE PROVIDER OF
COOLSCULPTING IN THE MIDWEST
WESTERN SUBURBS–Concierge Medical Spa is a luxury medical
spa with highly trained physicians, nurse practitioners and esthe-
ticians offering the most comprehensive esthetic medical services.
From body contouring to highly advanced future-forward restor-
ative and non-surgical cosmetic procedures, our esthetic experts
are some of the best in the industry. As the number one provider
of Coolsculpting in the Midwest and Top 200 in the country of Al-
lergan injectors, our services produce excellent results and have
high client satisfaction. www.concier
-
RESTORATIVE YOGA & GONG
MEDITATION TOGETHER IN ONE
BATAVIA–Through holistic healing and sha-
manic healing, the center offers different
services from cultures around the world
to bring balance and harmony to your
physical and emotional planes. Find
unique classes like drum circles, re-
storative yoga and gong meditation
here.
Healing Arts Metaphysical Center
4 E. Wilson St., Suite 101, Batavia,
www.healingartsmetaphysical.com
FLOATING IS THE NEW
CALMING TREND
NAPERVILLE–Find a quiet
space to just BE. Float in 10
inches of skin temperature
water with 1,600 pounds of
Epsom salt to keep you afloat
even if you fall asleep. You
have your own private Float
Room and can control the un-
derwater LED light and white
noise. Annica Float Club, 4S100
N. IL-59, Naperville,
www.floatnaperville.com
HEALTH + WELLNESS
hheeaalltthhyy lliivviinngg
Glancer Magazine • DECEMBER 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 55
HEALTH + WELLNESS
www.h-4training.com
Locations In Wheaton & Geneva
GET 1-ON-1 PERSONAL TRAINING AT H-4
TRAINING, TWO SUBURBAN LOCATIONS
WHEATON & GENEVA–It’s time to take care of #1 with
H4 Training! This program is best for individuals with very
specific needs who require dedicated attention. H-4’s
sessions focus on the specific goals of each client with
workouts tailored to each person. Visit online to learn
more and to check out the many other programs available
to you. Watch for a Q & A at GlancerMagazine.com
written by H4 Training's founder, Hank Ebeling, Local In-
dustry Expert in the Fitness category.
H4 Training
Wheaton & Geneva locations.
www.h4-training.com/services/personal-training/
FFIITTNNEESSSS
Mom’s Lile Black Book
56 • WESTERN SUBURBS • DECEMBER 2020 • Glancer Magazine
COMMUNITY LIVING
FITNESS
MONTHLY COLUMN
THE ULTIMATE INDOOR ADVENTURE
After recently competing in the Naperville Jaycees
Amazing Race with a group of very energetic gals,
I was itching to do something similar again. As
a new empty nester, I am grateful to be sur-
rounded by a group of friends that are as ad-
venturous and competitive as I am. I love that
there are so many exciting, all-ages activities
in our community that maintain my thrill-seek-
ing ways even sans kids off at college.
If you know me, you know I am huge fan of the
show Survivor; even running backyard games for
years for all the neighborhood kids, as well as with
Special Survivor Games for Indian Prairie School District
204. I absolutely love a good challenge combined with some
healthy competition.
I’m pretty sure Mish Mash Adventures was created with me in mind.
We went with a team of 5 which I think was the perfect number.
Each room was a timed challenge. Some physical, some mental,
some a combination of both. I would highly suggest dressing comfy,
wearing your gym shoes, bringing your water bottle, and preparing
for a good workout! If you share my competitive spirit, you will not
want to leave the room until you have successfully completed the
activity at hand. We scaled walls, “swam” over balls, leaped over
“lava”, pushed buttons, threw balls, and then some. We giggled,
screamed, crawled, ran, snorted, and hung on to each other for
dear life to beat the 10 second rule. I am still laughing at our spirited
antics to beat the system.
Mish Mash Adventures is open to all ages but is recommended for
those over ten. Although it can be quite physical, you can choose
to do any room challenge you want – so you can skip
rooms and customize your experience to meet your
personal physical and/or mental ability.
This truly is the ultimate indoor adventure!
Overview
MISH MASH is an urban adventure where
teams work together to complete the chal-
lenges that are hidden behind every door. The
first of its kind, this is an environment where
you can escape and play, all while challenging
yourself and your team. If you grew up wishing
you could be on all the TV adventure game shows
such as Double Dare™, American Gladiators™, and
Legends of the Hidden Temple™ – this place was created
for you.
Mish Mash Adventures
2402 Fox Valley Mall, Aurora
(630) 339-3609 • www.mishmashadventures.com
Hours: Varies based on date selected
Price $: $30/participant
ABOUT THE WRITER
Naperville mom Kristen Kucharski graduated from Illi-
nois State University in 1992 with an International
Business Degree. She has two energetic daughters
and her house is always full of children. Kristen’s col-
umn titled, Mom's Little Black Book, is a monthly fea-
ture written for moms who are looking for ways to keep
their kids busy. Read her past columns at
www.glancermagazine.com/bloggers
Mom’s Lile Black Book
Glancer Magazine • DECEMBER 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 57
Glancer Magazine • DECEMBER 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 59
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE
Relaxation, Restoration And Rejuvenation
Hand Delivered At Elements Massage Geneva
GENEVA–Massage is the perfect gift for everyone on your
list– no matter what style of massage they prefer. Whether it
is just to relax or to restore and rejuvenate the body, nothing
can beat a personalized, hand-crafted massage session with
one of our exceptional therapists. We’re offering the best deals
of the year on gift cards for this holiday season. Spread the
joy! Stop by, call or visit our website for a variety of specials,
as well as COVID-19 safety guidelines put in place.
Elements Massage Geneva
507 S. 3rd Street, Geneva
(630) 232-7335 • elementsmassage.com/geneva
WEST SUBURBAN CHICAGO
Give the Gift of Relaxation
60 • WESTERN SUBURBS • DECEMBER 2020 • Glancer Magazine
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE
All Things Beautiful
at Velvet Grace
So Much To Love About this West Suburban Boutique
OSWEGO–The moment you walk through the doors of the quaint
log cabins, of Velvet Grace your senses will explode. From the
calming scents of aromatic candles, to the eye-catching cozy vi-
gnettes. Warm your heart and soul while you peruse the beautiful
seasonal displays filled with timeless and trendy home décor,
gifts, women’s apparel, jewelry and accessories.
Design specialists are on hand to help personalize your home,
choose a unique gift, coordinate an outfit with the perfect acces-
sories, or to inform you about the easy-to-use Annie Sloan Chalk
Paint®.
Need to send a gift out of town? Order online and Velvet Grace
will ship directly to their door! Gift Certificates also available.
Visit in-store at 4025 US Highway 34 Oswego IL or online
at www.velvetgrace.shop
Glancer Magazine • DECEMBER 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 61
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE
62 • WESTERN SUBURBS • DECEMBER 2020 • Glancer Magazine
Glancer Magazine • DECEMBER 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 63
HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE
THE WEDDING PAGE
64 • WESTERN SUBURBS • DECEMBER 2020 • Glancer Magazine
GET TO KNOW V FUSION STUDIO
GENEVA–V Fusion Studio trainers (pictued above) take con-
sideration to increase your quality of life when creating
classes - and now also virtually (join facebook page). Local
area owner, Rachel Kowal, is currently pursuing her master’s
degree in exercise physiology, and she bases all classes in
the latest research. The current schedule has a variety of ef-
fective, fun, and unique classes. V fusion will improve your
core strength, endurance, and physique safely so you “train
for life” with this popular fitness studio. You’re invited to come
out and see why so many love it! Enjoy 30-days of unlimited
classes for just $95 or try one week for FREE when you men-
tion Glancer Magazine. V Fusion Studio, 129 W State,
Geneva, www.vfusionstudio.com
JOIN TODAY! www.vfusionstudio.com
Quality of Life
Glancer Magazine • DECEMBER 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 65
5. The Rustic Fox
www.therusticfoxhome.com
NORTH AURORA–This unique market-
place arrived on the shopping scene in September
2020 and has already become a fast favorite for thou-
sands in the area. The Rustic Fox is a 20,000 square foot
lifestyle marketplace with over 120 vendors offering fur-
niture, home decor, clothing, jewelry, accessories, kids
clothing, and so much more. Many vendors have holiday
displays and are filled with unique gift ideas fore every-
one on your list.
1. Painted Tree Marketplace
www.paintedtreemarketplace.com
Offering gifts, decor, fashion & more,
Painted Tree Marketplace is new to Nap-
erville in 2020. Recognized by millions
across the country, Painted Tree Market-
place is a shopping experience like no
other! Painted Tree is a creative com-
munity of shoppes featuring hundreds of
local shop owners, boutiques, dec-
orators, artisans and craftsmen all under
one roof. Shop gifts, decor, fashion,
soaps, candles, and so much more.
4. Vintage Marketplace
www.facebook.com/
TheVintageMarketplaceCo
AURORA–The Vintage Marketplace Co. has 60
vendors specializing in re-purposed and refinished an-
tique and vintage furniture with a large selection of décor
from every decade. Visit our 12,000 sqft store (2 Floors!) for
unique finds and treasures. Under new ownership.
3. Warehouse 55
www.warehouse55.shop
AURORA–This is a unique col-
lection of vintage finds, repurposed
furnishings, mixed with many one of a kind ac-
cessories. Here you'll find something for every
aesthetic- from MCM, rustic farmhouse, cot-
tage chic and modern contemporary.
2. Sadie’s Attic
www.facebook.com/sadiesonmain
ELBURN–Such a cute shop located in
downtown Elburn on Main Street. Shop
for rustic wood creations for garden and
home, unique quilted items for kitchen
and outdoor dining, repurposed decor
and furniture– all brought to you by local
artisans.
6. The Wyckwood House
www.wyckwoodhouse.com
WHEATON & AURORA–You’ll love this unique
shopping experience featuring goods from local arti-
sans. From clothing and accessories to gifts and
more, the popular shopping spot recently expanded
to Wheaton. Their original location is in Aurora.
7. Oakbrook Artisan Market
www.oakbrookartisanmarket.com
OAKBROOK–This 2-day market in Oak
Brook showcases some of the Midwest’s
finest artisans in fashion, food, home goods + art.
The curated show celebrates the ingenuity of inde-
pendently owned, small businesses who channel
their passions into creating one-of-a-kind products.
Shop with the makers themselves – and learn how
they make their unique and functional creations.
It’s been a hard year for many local businesses, and this includes small shops and boutiques. Yet, despite the setbacks that COVID-19 has created for many,
some businesses went ahead with their pland and followed their hope & dreams by opening up and inviting the community in. Each shop listed here is new
in 2020 and excited to meet new customers. This holiday season, support local and shop at these new community shops.
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68 • WESTERN SUBURBS • DECEMBER 2020 • Glancer Magazine
MULTI-VENDOR SHOPS YOU’LL LOVE
6.
4.
50 CATEGORIES
150 WINNERS
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