2. Enjoy Chocolate & Celebrate 19 Years
DOWNTOWN WHEATON–Grahams second location in
Wheaton was first opened in June of 2000 and serves as a
quaint little retail shop and adds to the uniqueness that is
downtown Wheaton. Homemade candies, ice cream and
fudge are just a few of the yummy treats found here. Visit
today to try a something fun! Graham’s Chocolates other lo-
cation is in Geneva. 119 W Front St Wheaton.
www.grahamschocolate.com
SUMMER 2020
5 Things to Do
1. Treat Yourself to Flowers
WHEATON– When only the most beautiful will do,
head to Andrew's Garden in Wheaton. Reminis-
cent of the finest flower shops in Paris and
London, Andrew’s Garden is a European-
style, full-service floral and fine gift shop,
specializing in couture designs for wed-
dings and events and more. Stop in the
shop and choose a single special
bloom or a vased arrangement for the
evening’s dinner party.
131 West Wesley, Wheaton
4. Plan a New Kitchen, Basement or Bath
NAPERVILLE– Recognized as a premiere remodeling company,
with a 10,000 square foot showroom in Naperville, HomeWerks
has a beautiful online gallery of photos and ideas to help you plan
your next remodeling dream come true. Now’s a great time to
start planning your next kitchen, bath or basement project!
Family owned and operated since 1996, HomeWerks specializes
in full service remodeling. The kitchen and bath displays are in-
teractive, allowing visitors to experience many product features
first hand. With the focus of providing high quality products, pro-
fessional installation and exceptional customer service
HomeWerks Kitchen and Bath • www.myhomewerks.com
3. Support Local
WEST SUBURBAN CHICAGO
As Gov. JB Pritzker announced Phase
4 of his Restore Illinois Plan, busi-
nesses and restaurants throughout
the western suburbs felt some re-
lief. But with capacity require-
ments still in place and many
residents not venturing out due
to COVID-19, things are still very
hard for local businesses. We
encourage you to support these
businesses as much as possible
via take out or delivery, or online
shopping. If you do visit a shop or
restaurant, please follow psoted
safety guidelines.
#inthistogether #covid19
5. Enjoy a Polo Match
OAK BROOK–For 2020, Polo fans can expect more adrenaline-fueled matches be-
tween some of the world’s best players from neighboring teams and abroad. This
summer marks Oak Brook Polo’s 98th season as one of the nation's oldest polo clubs
in operation today and the fourth oldest sports property in Chicago. July matches in-
clude July 12, Butler Challenge Cup – Chukkers for Charity and July 26, Oak Brook
Polo Open – Village Appareciation www.oakbrookpoloclub.com
Glancer Magazine • JULY 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 9
COVER STORY
10 • WESTERN SUBURBS • JULY 2020 • Glancer Magazine
Awesome
Aunt
by Kristen Kucharski
Photos Submitted
It’s been said that only aunts can love you like a mother, keep secrets
like a sister, and share in the joys like a true friend.
Family is very important to Katie. She grew up with two very special
Aunts in her life and had the pleasure to travel to different places with
both; Katie hopes to carry on the travel experiences with her niece and
nephews, Caiden (12) and newly born twins, Ellie and Benjamin.
Starting local, Katie has already traveled to Chicago with her nephew
Caiden and treasures the memory of their experience at the SafeHouse
when they worked together investigating secret passageways and in-
teractive spy gadgets throughout the restaurant. She thoroughly en-
joyed witnessing the crowning moment when Caiden figured out the
secret passcode for their escape. Not that she is biased or anything,
but she thinks he is perhaps the smartness and most handsome kid in
town! Katie is looking forward to sharing similar experiences with Ellie
& Benny as they get older.
Regardless of how busy work gets for Katie, locating temporary housing
for policyholders that have been displaced on an insurance claim,
she always finds time for family, friends, and volunteering as the
Marketing Chair for the Eyes to the Skies Festival in Lisle. Even dur-
ing quarantine, she carved out virtual time to engage with her nephew
via word games over texts, Zoom calls, and as the weather got warmer,
a few outdoor social distance gatherings.
Once things return to normal, she looks forward to taking her niece and
nephews to the beach, the pool, get-a-ways to Lake Geneva and White-
water Lake, and looks forward to planning more family outings and va-
cations, with Italy being at the top of her list!
Being an Aunt has become Katie’s favorite role in life, but she still man-
dates four basic rules:
1. Bedtime is WHENEVER
2. The Answer is always YES
3. I will always have your back
4. Hugs are MANDATORY
Meet Katie Palombit of Lisle/Algonquin
12 • WESTERN SUBURBS • JULY 2020 • Glancer Magazine
Glancer Magazine • JULY 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 13
Summer is here and it’s time to treat yourself to some local din-
ing and cocktail delights. Here’s a fun list to help get you started.
Bon appetit!
SUSHI DONE RIGHT
NAPERVILLE–Part of a fun sushi dining experience is the at-
mosphere, right? You'll be excited to know that indoor seating
is now open in many Water Street Naperville restaurants, in-
cluding one or your favorite local sushi hot spots.
Blue Sushi Sake Grill offers patio seating on Foyo Plaza and
overlooking the Riverwalk, as well as indoor seating along the
windows overlooking the patio. Blue Sushi also recommends
reservations, for lunch or dinner, either online or by phone, and
will continue curbside take-out. Photo by Blue Sushi Sake Grill
Located on Water Street in Downtown Naperville
www.bluesushisakegrill.com
DINING & COCKTAILS
WEST SUBURBAN DINING
DINING
DINING + COCKTAILS
14 • WESTERN SUBURBS • JULY 2020 • Glancer Magazine
10
TREND #1 | Alter Brewing & Kitchen
NEW ALONG THE FOX WITH EXPANSIVE OUTDOOR DINING AREA
ST. CHARLES–Alter Brewing + Kitchen is the second location for Alter Brewing,
and their first full-service restaurant. It’s nestled in beautiful downtown St.
Charles along the Fox River, and right on Main St. (so you can’t miss it!). In ad-
dition to their new food offerings, they have a 10-barrel brew house, 16 taps, pri-
vate dining room event space, and an awesome all-seasons patio with a
container bar. 12 S. First Street, St. Charles.
www.alterbrewing.com/st-charles-brewery-kitchen
TREND #2 | 302 Wheaton
ADDED TO A VARIETY OF OUTDOOR DINING OPTIONS
WHEATON–302 Wheaton and restaurants across town, including all along Hale
Street, welcomed outdoor dining on May 29. 302 was created with a vision for a
destination where family and friends could share in fellowship over a meal,
game and great craft beer. The outdoor patio is loved by many. 302 W. Front
Street, Wheaton. www.302wheaton.com
TRENDS
In West
Suburban
Outdoor Dining
10 TRENDS 2020
Downtown Wheaton
Alter Brewing
St. Charles
16 • WESTERN SUBURBS • JULY 2020 • Glancer Magazine
TREND #3 | Another Round
CHEERS! JUST ONE BLOCK FROM TRAIN STATION
DOWNERS GROVE–Another Round is one of west suburban Chi-
cago’s premiere sports bar featuring 2 bars, a couch area and a
beer garden/patio that has fast become a local hot spot in outdoor
dining. Guests love the full menu that is available late night. 5141
Main Street, Downers Grove www.anotherroundbarandgrill.com
TREND #4 | Blue Seas Saki Grill
OUTDOOR DINING OVERLOOKING THE DUPAGE RIVER
NAPERVILLE–Blue Sushi Sake Grill offers patio seating on Foyo
Plaza and overlooking the Riverwalk, as well as indoor seating along
the windows overlooking the patio. Blue Sushi also recommends re-
servations, for lunch or dinner, either online or by phone, and will con-
tinue curbside take-out. Located on Water Street in Downtown
Naperville. www.bluesushisakegrill.com
TREND #5 | The Hen House
A BEAUTIFUL OUTDOOR PATIO
WHEATON–The Hen House of Wheaton restaurant and coffee bar
is family owned, focusing on a more decadent but healthy alter-
native to your average breakfast/lunch restaurants. You’ll feel re-
laxed in this Urban Farmhouse setting with a beautiful outdoor patio
to enjoy all summer long. The full-service Coffee Bar showcases
classic Lavazza espresso inspired beverages, served hot or cold.
Also serving signature alcoholic drinks such as thir Bloody Mary and
seasonal selection of Mimosas. 1060 College Avenue, Wheaton
www.thehenhouseofwheaton.com
TREND #6 | R. Urban Wine Bar
HERE'S WHY YOU'LL LOVE IT HERE
LISLE–R. Urban Wine Bar & Cafe is loved by pizza and wine lovers
throughout the western suburbs. Located in downtown Lisle, they
serve high-quality brick oven pizzas, a varietal of wines from around
the world, along with a full bar and small bites in a trendy, comfort-
able atmosphere. Outdoor seating is set up for you to enjoy!
4738 Main St., Lisle. www.urbanwinelisle.com
TREND #7 | Potter’s Place
ALWAYS HAPPENING. ALWAYS FUN.
NAPERVILLE–If you haven’t already, you’ll for sure fall in love with
this Downtown Naperville hot spot that’s always trending come sum-
mertime. This local Mexican cantina has the largest outdoor patio in
downtown Naperville and features daily live entertainment with an
upscale martini lounge located upstairs called Two-Nine.
www.facebook.com/pottersplacenaperville/
TREND #8 | Bar Evolution
RELAX & ENJOY APPETIZERS, COCKTAILS & LIVE MUSIC
BATAVIA–Bar Evolution has fast become one of Kane COunty’s hot-
test outdoor patios offering a limite outdoor menu currently to in-
clude cockatils such as Grapefruit Cosmo and the Blackberry
Hopper, along with appetizers such as Buffalo Chicken Dip and
Chicken Fajita Flatbread. Enjoy a casual adult atmosphere, live
music and tasty bites. 27 N. River Street, Batavia.
www.barevolutionbatavia.com
TREND #9 | Craft Urban
FOOD. COCKTAILS. LOCAL.
GENEVA–Voted Best New Restaurant KANE County 2018, Craft
Urban Kitchen sources local ingredients that are treated to creative
New American preparations at this stylish Geneva retreat, where
dishes are matched with suggested cocktail pairings. The outdoor
dining area has been a wonderful place for residents to visit this
summmer. 211 James Street, Geneva. www.crafturban.com.
TREND #10 | Eden on the River
SITUATED ALONG THE BEAUTIFUL FOX RIVER
ST. CHARLES–In sharing their love of the Mediterranean’s delicious
flavors, the owners of Eden on the River use wholesome ing-
redients, and bright spices. All dishes are made from scratch, using
the freshest of ingredients that truly speak to the simplicity, intensity,
and richness of the Mediterranean culture. They also feature world-
class wine, beer and spirits program served in a chic but relaxed
ambience. Eden on the River is situated along the Fox River with a
beautiful outdoor dining area like no other.
www.edenstcharles.com
Another Round, Downers Grove
Eden on the River, St. Charles
Glancer Magazine • JULY 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 17
20 • WESTERN SUBURBS • JULY 2020 • Glancer Magazine
COMMUNITY LIVING
CELEBRATING LOCAL
The community never sleeps
for Essential Workers.
They’re the people working in
hospitals and grocery stores,
on farms and in meatpacking
plants. They’re keeping public
transit, shipping and utilities
running; as well as sanitizing
and disinfecting our places
of business.
They are our local heroes.
Glancer Magazine • JULY 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 23
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 be-
lieves 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
Penny O’Bien
24 • WESTERN SUBURBS • JULY 2020 • Glancer Magazine
MILLION
DOLLAR
listing
Central Park Place Naperville: Luxury Condos are
located in the heart of downtown Naperville. This
unique project incorporates the original Nichols Library
building in its existing location on the site. The new
building is designed to compliment the original architec-
ture of the Library. The building boasts an exclusive
rooftop terrace/deck for residents. Each unit has a pri-
vate terrace and two underground parking spots. Only
17 total units total, Phase 1 is SOLD OUT.
$1,200,000
3bed • 3.5 bath • 2,858sqft
110 S Washington St., Unit 303
Downtown Naperville
(773) 750-9535
Presented by:
Katherine Minott
Brokered by:
john greene REALTOR
REAL ESTATE
26 • WESTERN SUBURBS • JULY 2020 • Glancer Magazine
REAL ESTATE
City Feel.
Suburban Appeal.
Unit 206 is an end unit featuring 3
bedrooms plus a study, 3.5 baths, a
great room, kitchen/dinette and laun-
dry room. The city living you desire
perfectly situated at the center of
Naperville.
Glancer Magazine • JULY 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 27
To Give,
To Inspire
CARING + SHARING
A Monthly Caring + Sharing Column
28 • WESTERN SUBURBS • JULY 2020 • Glancer Magazine
As hundreds of people peacefully
rallied in many of our communities
following the death of George
Floyd in Minneapolis, vandals and
looters also took to the streets
wreaking havoc on several busi-
nesses in our downtown areas.
Aurora was one of the towns that
was hit hard with the violence, and
some small business owners, like
Maria de los Angeles Saltijeral
who owns I of the Angeles, found
themselves protecting their stores with baseball bats and
boards on their windows.
Early the next morning, volunteer clean-up crews were
busy clearing away debris and broken glass, showing
their support of their community. By the time opening
business hours arrived, all was cleared away, but many
of the stores’ windows remained boarded. Then came
the beautifiers.
“It all started with a call from Sherwin-Williams offering
to donate mistinted paint and some paint supplies,” says
Jen Evans, Public Art Director of Aurora Public Art Com-
mission. “Then Home Depot donated plywood, and the
donations started coming in from everywhere.” A call
went out on social media to reach out to as many artists
as possible for help in painting pictures of hope, beauty
and community on the boarded-up windows. “We had
so many artists come down that there were more artists
than walls,” says Jen. “The compilation of artists from
town with all different backgrounds has been beautiful.”
One of the volunteer artists, Gin Ingram and her daugh-
ter, Nadia, based their painting off of the theme “Love 1
Another”, found in many of Prince’s
songs. Another volunteer, Cherilynn
Gnadt, wanted to depict a community
coming from darkness to grow
stronger and filled it with cocoons
bursting into color.
Regarding the artwork, Maria ex-
plained, “It took me out of a dark
place. You focus so much on the
negative, and it drains your energy.
When you find how caring others can
be, it fills you back up.” Mary Garcia, her neighboring
business owner that runs My Daughter’s Dress, said the
efforts brought her to her knees in tears of joy. “Hon-
estly, it made me feel like I was not alone, and this com-
munity is going to be here for me every single step of
the way.”
And what will happen with all this beautiful art when it
comes down? There are no concrete plans, but Jen’s
hope is they will be able to collect the boards and hire
local artists to put it all together as a permanent sculp-
ture somewhere in the city. Watching these com-
munities coming together as one, reminds me of one of
my favorite quotes from Ernest Hemingway that cur-
rently hangs in my writing office, “We are all broken;
that’s how the light gets in.”
ABOUT THE WRITER
Mindy Kyle is passionate about helping people
discover what brings them joy and to live a full,
healthy and happy life. She has her Master
of Fine Arts degree in creative writing from
DePaul University and is a veteran of Chi-
cago’s theater and commercial world as well
as a graduate of the Second City Improv
School. Mindy lives in Naperville with her hus-
band, three children and the cutest dog in the
land.
VIEW MINDY’S MONTHLY COLUMN AT
www.GlancerMagazine.com/to-give-to-inspire
How the Aurora Public Art Commission
Helped Keep Aurora Positive
CARING + SHARING
Glancer Magazine • JULY 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 29
FAMILY DENTISTRY WITH
A WIDE ARRAY OF SERVICES
Valley View Dental offers an array of general and cos-
metic dentistry, periodontal, dental implants, oral surgery,
and orthodontic procedures, including traditional braces,
Invisalign, teeth whitening, CEREC one-day crowns and
even same day emergency visits. With a large staff of
multi-lingual doctors, on-site labs at each location, and
extended business and weekend hours, Valley View Den-
tal has the ability to treat patients according to their own
schedules and convenience. Stop by and see why others
in the community have trusted Valley View Dental for al-
most 20 years. Located In Naperville, Montgomery &
Romeoville. Valley View Dental www.vvdental.com
.
DENTAL
HEALTH + WELLNESS
30 • WESTERN SUBURBS • JULY 2020 • Glancer Magazine
HEALTH + WELLNESS
CONTINUING TO CARE FOR YOU
Keeping your family well is your top priority right now and at DuPage Medical
Group, it's theirs too. They recognize that your healthcare needs don’t disappear
during a pandemic like this, which is why they're continuing to serve their patients
safely at their clinics and through virtual visits.
Whether you need primary or specialty care, you can connect with your physician
securely on your mobile device or computer through the MyDMG Health app. Visit
face-to-face with a provider via video visit, message with a physician over e-Visit
or schedule your next in-office appointment online, all from the comfort of home.
Take care of your family’s healthcare to-do list today at www.ScheduleDMG.com
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.conciergemedspa.com/glancer
RESTORATIVE YOGA & GONG
MEDITATION TOGETHER IN ONE
BATAVIA–Through holistic healing and
shamanic healing, the center offers differ-
ent services from cultures around the
world to bring balance and harmony to
your physical and emotional planes.
Find unique classes like drum circles,
restorative 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 pri-
vate Float Room and can control
the underwater LED light and
white noise. Annica Float Club,
4S100 N. IL-59, Naperville,
www.floatnaperville.com
healthy living
Glancer Magazine • JULY 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 31
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/
FITNESS
32 • WESTERN SUBURBS • JULY 2020 • Glancer Magazine
HEALTH + WELLNESS
Glancer Magazine • JULY 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 33
Kid
Stuff
Stay Connected
NAPERVILLE–Let DuPage
Children’s Museum be your
go-to resource for helpful in-
formation on child devel-
opment, caregiver support,
and fun learning opportuni-
ties including Museum tried-
and-tested, hands-on
activities that can be done
at home. Explore the power
of play through a variety of
channels; follow the Museum on Facebook, Instagram,
Twitter, and YouTube. We miss seeing everyone. Please
share with us what you’ve been doing to keep busy. Let’s con-
nect! (630) 637-8000 • www.dupagechildrens.org
Frontier Kite Fly Festival • August 30
NAPERVILLE–Join the Naperville Park District, KidsMatter and The Branch
Naperville Moms for the Frontier Kite Fly Festival on Sunday, August 30 from
10:00 am-4:00 pm at Frontier Sports Complex. This free event is filled with
activities for the whole family! Watch gigantic kites perform exciting stunts,
have fun with kids' activities, witness the annual police and fire department
obstacle race, enjoy live music and entertainment and much more.
www.napervilleparks.org
Let’s Talk About Cats!
Let’s talk about cats! On July 6, Anderson Animal Shelter
invites kids to learn all about cat body language and how
cats communicate with us! Children ages 6-8 can sign up
to join in at 11 am and kids age 9-12 can join in at 2 pm.
For more information about all of our virtual camp ses-
sions and to register:
www.andersonanimalshelter.org/virtualcamps
Click for More Kid Stuff!
38 • WESTERN SUBURBS • JULY 2020 • Glancer Magazine
SUMMER BLISS
Glancer Magazine • JULY 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 41
DUPAGE LIVING
42 • WESTERN SUBURBS • JULY 2020 • Glancer Magazine
DUPAGE LIVING
A Willow & Maple
Fairies are a Family Affair
NAPERVILLE–Adam Chasen and Jen Ullrich live in
Naperville with their four kids, three dogs, an ugly
frog, and a huge tank of fish. A blended family,
Jen has a 13-year-old daughter (Emma) and
Adam has a 13-year-old son (Max) and twin
15-year-old daughters (Bella and Amelia).
Their Naperville home was built in 1958 by the
builder Don Tosi. Tosi built many mid-century
modern homes in the area and they fell in love
with theirs and moved in about six years ago. As
kids, the two both had a passion for the Thorne
Rooms at the Art Institute and have loved miniatures ever
since. They began their own creative adventure starting with a
miniature version of their house that they called 125 1/8 and have
been expanding the fairyland adventure for several years. The in-
stallation has drawn hundreds of visitors to their home at the corner
of Willow and Maple Lane just south of downtown Naperville.
If you come by around dusk, you can see inside of the stores thanks
to Adam’s custom lighting fixtures that illuminate everything from
the pathway to the diner to the MetroGnome music store.
Adam built everything by hand including most of the interior pieces.
Jen says he is an absolute genius creator and maker - he carves,
molds, electrifies, welds - he does it all - the water features, every-
thing. He even hand-cast the cement blocks used to build the light-
house. Adam's background is construction, and he built restaurants
in Chicago and homes in the Gold Coast and on the North Shore.
He is an expert in design/build and applies all that
knowledge to the small scale too. The entire family
comes up with ideas and Adam makes them real.
“Every piece takes a ton of hours and skill. He
loves to do it. It makes us both really happy to
be able to do something fun for the neighbor-
hood,” Jen shares. “We have visitors from all
over the area and people walk by or ride by
on their bikes and yell all kinds of nice compli-
ments. It brings us a lot of joy.”
Visitors of all ages enjoy the fairyland, leaving be-
hind nice tokens and letters, including from a woman
who had traveled to Ireland and brought back the mushrooms
that are now in the fairy lawn. Another neighbor's young son wrote
tiny little letters that are now inside the music store. Inside Wings
and Things, the first store in Fairyland, are things from Jen’s child-
hood collected from her Great Grandma Emma. The most recent
addition to the fairy stores includes little paper hearts with BLM
added to the store windows.
Working in Human Resources at Edward-Elmhurst Health, Jen has
a heart with an eye for community focus. She also extends that
passion to teaching in the Bridge Communities job readiness pro-
gram. Jen and Adam look forward to sharing the joys of their Fairy-
land with the entire community.
If you visit, please stay on the sidewalk and be careful. Keep Fairy-
land around for everyone to enjoy.-Kristen Kucharski
SOMETHING DIFFERENT
Glancer Magazine • JULY 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 43
One Big Happy
Meet the Krake Family of Oswego
OSWEGO–With seven (7) kids there are never
really any typical days for the Krake family of Os-
wego. According to Lindsey (mom), “It’s con-
trolled chaos - some days more control, some
days more chaos; but, always fun.”
While David (dad) works as an accountant, Lind-
sey is a stay at home mom who keeps everyone
going in the right directions at the right times! David
(18) will be going to college to study cinematography in
the Fall, leaving Lindsey and David to manage the other six
schedules through Oswego Community School activities, partici-
pation in various programs at Community Christian Church in Nap-
erville and Harvest New Beginnings Church in Oswego where
Brendan (17) also plays in the church band; the multitude of Tae
Kwon Do sessions; robotics competitions for Alyssa (15); and cre-
ative play and art projects with Alli (9), Chloe (8), Emma (6), and
Coen (4).
Grounding their family in the core belief of working hard, having
fun, and helping others, the Krake family feels lucky to have so
many people they can count on for love and support. Growingup
in the western suburbs and living across the world
from Kobe, Japan to Milwaukee, WI, and back to
Oswego, IL again, the Krake’s value the gift
of giving back to local and global charities
and strongly encourage others to donate
time or money to help others stay healthy
and safe.
Always enjoying outdoor activities, the
family recently took advantage of an im-
promptu photo shoot that included custom t-
shirts identifying the timeline of the family’s
progression:
Mom and Dad of course are the ‘Executive Producers’
....David, as the first child, is ‘The Original’
....Brendan, up next is ‘The Remix’
....Alyssa, the first daughter, brought ‘A Fresh New Beat’
....Alli, as the second girl, is ‘Remastered’
....Chloe is their ‘Mix Tape’
....Emma is the ‘Encore’
....and Coen closes out the show as the ‘Mic Drop’
The daily production of life with the Krake’s requires everyone to
do their part. Lots of planning, scripting, storyboarding, and ev-
erything in between to create the final master copy.
by Kristen Kucharski
Photo Submitted
FABULOUS
family
KENDALL LIVING
44 • WESTERN SUBURBS • JULY 2020 • Glancer Magazine
KENDALL LIVING
A VIRTUAL FAMILY DANCE PARTY
Sat, July 18 • 6-7pm • $15/Family
ZOOM EVENT–You’re invited to an Under the Sea
Family Dance Party hosted by your favorite mermaid!
Be part of her world as you join Ariel in this hour-long
virtual event filled with dancing, activities and raffles
the whole family will enjoy! All ages are welcome at
this interactive Zoom! event. Each family will receive
a mailed invitation from Ariel and parents will receive
additional activities to pair with the dance to enhance
the experience all from home! Please note, registra-
tions that are taken after July 10 are not guaranteed
to receive the mailed invitation. Register today
www.yorkville.il.us/BeachBash
KIDS GO WILD FORT BUILDING
July 7 or 9 • 9am-12pm
OSWEGO–The Little Rascals have nothing on these
builders! Kids Go Wild heads to Waa Kee Sha to
build forts using wood, hammers, nails, blankets,
and duct tape. It’s a morning of learning skills to
match their imagination as kids create and con-
struct. Kids should bring: a hammer, safety glasses,
and a sack lunch. How fun! Hosted by Oswegoland
Park District. For ages 7-14. Visit
bit.ly/2YZjzi7
to register.
SUMMER READING 2020
Running through August 1
OSWEGO–Have you signed up for Summer Reading? It
is easy, just log on to your Beanstack account with Os-
wego Public Library and register. There are lots of easy
challenges for the kids to complete. Sign up the whole
family. Read. Investigate. Discover. Perfect for children,
adults and young adults, too.
www.oswego.lib.il.us
Send Your Kendall Living News to
editorial@glancermagazine.com
Glancer Magazine • JULY 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 45
St. Charles Park District Garage Sale
Fundraiser • July 24-25 • 8am-4pm
ST. CHARLES–Got stuff? Got stuff you don’t want? Get rid of it with the
help of the St. Charles Park District’s Community Garage Sale. Not only
do you clean up while cleaning out, the 2-day event helps raise funds for
the park district’s popular teen center, STC Underground.
Held on Friday, July 24 and Saturday, July 25 from 8am to 4pm, the sky’s
the limit when it comes to what goes. Un-cram those closets and de-clutter
that den! You keep all the profits from your sale while the proceeds of the
registration fees help support STC Underground’s dynamic roster of pro-
grams and activities for all middle and high school students, ages 11 to 19,
residing within School District 303’s boundaries.
Registration fees ($20 Early Bird Rate effective until July 17; $30 from July
18-22) entitle each participant to have their address listed in the event pro-
motion guide, which is distributed throughout the community and viewable
online. Sellers also receive a promotion kit that includes attention-getting
yard signs and balloons. Ads in local and Chicagoland newspapers also
help drive buyers to the event, which included more than 100 homes last
year. Participants may pick up their information packet, yard sign and bal-
loon at the STC Underground on Thursday, July 23 between 1 and 9pm.
For more information, contact the STC Underground at (630) 513-4321 or
www.stcparks.org
.
KANE LIVING
SUPPORT
STUDENTS IN
District 303
through STC
Underground
46 • WESTERN SUBURBS • JULY 2020 • Glancer Magazine
KANE LIVING
Glancer Magazine • JULY 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 47
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 • JULY 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 51
TRENDY TRAVELER
TrendY
Traveler
TRENDY TRAVELER
If you’re looking for a uniquely splendid
trip with memories to last a lifetime,
we have just the place. Complete with wordly tradition, mod-
ern sophistication and exquisite service– this historical gift is
located on Mackinac Island in upper Michigan.
Introducing Grand Hotel.
Since 1887 Grand Hotel beckons guests to a bygone era of
old-world hospitality and charm. Experience the tradition of
Afternoon Tea in the Parlor, dressing up for dinner, nightly
dancing to the sounds of the Grand Hotel Orchestra, and
sitting in a rocking chair on the world’s longest porch with
views of the Straits of Mackinac.
This National Historic Landmark has always embraced its
rich history, while keeping up with current times. That means
today, guests enjoy modern amenities while the hotel’s origi-
nal architecture and charm have been tastefully preserved.
Contributing greatly to the hotel’s ambiance is the relaxed
atmosphere of Mackinac Island, where cars are not allowed
and the horse and carriage and bicycle are favored modes
of transportation.
397 Rooms and No Two Are the Same
Grand Hotel’s design has been influenced by esteemed in-
terior designer, Carleton Varney of Dorothy Draper & Co.
Each of the hotel’s 397 guest rooms feature their own
unique style and theme. Pictured here is the Musser Suite
which was named after The Musser Family. From 1933
through 2019, the Musser family has preserved the history
and tradition of Grand Hotel, thoughtfully improving the
grand experience of every guest for over 85 years. In Oc-
tober 2019 a new chapter began for Grand Hotel as Pivot
Hotel and Resorts, the luxury division of Davidson Hotels
& Resorts took over the management for owner, KSL Cap-
ital Partners.
Grand Hotel
on Michigan’s
Mackinac
Island
50 • WESTERN SUBURBS • JULY 2020 • Glancer Magazine
TRENDY TRAVELER
Grand Hotel is known for its named rooms. These unique
guest rooms reflect the lives of several U.S. Presidents and
First Ladies, various historical time periods, decorating
styles, and prominent historical figures and events. The
decor of each of the Named Rooms has been influenced by
interior designer Carleton Varney and features an individual
thematic design, furnishings and ambiance.
Our favorite named rooms are the First Lady Rooms that
are decorated to reflect each First Lady’s personality with
unique colors, decor and memorabilia, with the Jacqueline
Kennedy Suite whch is truly stunning. You can take a
virtual tour of the Laura Bush Suite and the Lady Bird
Johnson Suite online at the hotel’s website.
Rich In History
Grand Hotel has immense historical signifgance dating back
to 1886 when Mackinac Island became a summer getaway
with limited accommodations. Land was purchased by the
Mackinac Island Hotel Company which was formed by The
Michigan Central Railroad, Grand Rapids and Indiana Rail-
road, and Detroit and Cleveland Steamship Navigation
Company. A complete timeline following the construction of
Grand Hotel can be found online. It is truly an amazing com-
pilation of all that makes this hotel what it is today.
A Top Destination for Families
Thanks to many activities , the readers of Travel + Leisure
Family magazine rate Grand Hotel as one of the 10 kid-
friendliest resorts in the U.S. and Canada. Grand Hotel was
also recognized as a top resort in the family category in the
2015 Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards.
A Distinctive Destination
America’s True Grand Hotel was named by the National
Trust for Historic Preservation as One of a Dozen Distinctive
Destinations. Grand Hotel has also received a number of
distinguished awards: view the list.
If you’re looking for the perfect summer getaway, we invite
you to Grand Hotel on Mackinac Island for the trip of a life-
time. Grand Hotel is rich in history, a place where time
moves at the pace of horse-drawn carriages and bicycles.
You will never forget the spectacular views from a rocking
chair overlooking the Straits of Mackinac from the world’s
longest porch.
For more details, visit www.grandhotel.com
Glancer Magazine • JULY 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 51
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