Glancer Magazine, March 2021 : simplebooklet.com

HAPPY HOME Springtime Will Soon Be Here– Dream It. Do It. It’s March and it’s time to start planning for all of those home enhancement projects that you’ve been dreaming of. It’s been a long winter and spring is in the air. With this comes that feeling of excitement as we dream of all the home design and decor possibilitites to revitalize and refresh our home. No matter the size of the project– big or small– this issue is filled with many ideas and local connections to help you get started. Our cover feature highlights west suburban Home Design Enthusisasts–each with a unique story to share. From repurposing old finds into beautiful on-trend decor pieces, and turning a plain and simple room into a gorgeous interior living space, to building award-winning custom homes– the talent that these local women have is truly so very impressive. The 10 Trends in Home Design Enhancement will leave home owners feeling ex-cited to update this Spring, as we unveil some of today’s hottest trends and where to find them locally. Such a great feature! We also feature 7 Spectacular Totally Unique Homes For Sale Right Now, and these homes will amaze you–from a waterfront oasis to a “green” dream home and everything in between. We hope you enjoy this special expanded real estate feature. Thank you for reading our Spring Home Enhnance-ment issue! Our team always enjoys working with the community on this issue each year. Remember to stay connected, Glancer Magazine is daily, weekly and monthly with a packed year ahead. We love local! We know local! Lindy Kleivo Publishing Director, West Suburban Area Pictured at Aurelio’s In Geneva with Her YoungestMARCH 20215 Hello From Glancer Magazine 7 5 Things to Do 8 COVER Home Design Enthusiasts 18 10 Trends In Spring Home Enhancement 20 Downtown Naperville–Be In The Mix! 22 Unique In Suburbia: Axe Throwing 24 Dining & Cocktails 26 Trendy Traveler: 3 VRBO Travel Trends 30 3-Mile Run In Oswego 32 Million Dollar Listing: Sugar Grove 34 Home Design & Decor 35 Meet the Design Team at Nona Jo’s 36 Literary Local: Rhythm Rescue 37 Susan Colella, Naperville Real Estate 38 To Give, To Inspire: Benet Special Places 40 Meet Penny O’Brien of Naperville 41 West Suburban VIP: Tote Babies Inventors 42 Kid Stuff: March Fun In 2021 44 Dental News 45 Career Time 46 Fitness with the H4 Training Team 48 Shop Local 49 Mom’s Little Black Book: Sable Creek 50 Shopping + Style: Boutiques 52 7 Spectacular Totally Unique Local Homes TABLE OF CONTENTST 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 SALES / MARKETING Lindy Kleivo Publishing Director PHOTOGRAPHY Mike Catuara Features Photographer P U B L I C A T I O N S GLANCER MAGAZINE A West Suburban Chicago Lifestyle Magazine Featuring the Best of West Suburban Chicago for Communities In DuPage, Kane & Kendall GLANCERMAGAZINE.COM A Hyper-Local Daily Features Site Highlighting On Trend Stories for Communities In DuPage, Kane & Kendall GLANCER GO-TO GUIDE Highlighting Local On Trend Events + Deals for For Communities In DuPage, Kane & Kendall C O N T A C T U S EDITORIAL Press Releases, Local Events, Community News editorial@glancermagazine.com ADVERTISING Digital Advertising + Local Marketing Solutions advertising@glancermagazine.com SUBSCRIPTIONS Monthly Download + Daily Digital www.glancermagazine.comGlancer Magazine, highlighting the best of DuPage, Kane & Kendall Counties, is produced by Glancer Magazine, Inc. Glancer Magazine, GlancerMagazine.com. You’ve Been Glanced and the Glancer logo are registered trademarks of Glancer Mag-azine, Inc. All rights reserved. Magazine re-production in whole or in part is strictly prohibited. MARCH 2021 | Vol 19 Happy Home This month we are celebrating Springtime at home. From interior redesign projects to exterior updates and on-trend enhance-ments throughout– Spring is the perfect time to focus on your home. This issue in-troduces you to many local resources to help you along in your home enhancement endeavors. Subscribe today for daily, weeky and monthly updates at www.GlancerMagazine.com ©Copyright 2021 All Rights Reserved Glancer Magazine, Inc. Glancer Magazine • MARCH 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 5MMAARRCCHH 22002211

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3. Start Planning Your Spring & Summer Blooms SUGAR GROVE–Spring is in the air and it’s time to start planning for your beautiful summer blooms. From rose bushes to blossoming ornament trees, take a rise out to this beautiful nursery in Kane County, Outdoor, open air ac-cess to their tree, shrub, and perennial areas are now open. Greenhouses also open. Face coveringas and a 6 foot dis-tance req. www.springbluffnursery.com 1. Kane County Flea Market • March 5 & 6 ST. CHARLES–A fun, local, world renowned antique Flea Market started in 1967 by Helen Robinson. Located in St. Charles, Illinois. www.kanecountyfleamarket.comMARCH 20215 Things to Do5. Vintage Shop Hop • March 5 & 6 WESTERN SUBURBS–The Vintage Shop Hop is a self-guided day of vintage & bou-tique shopping held twice a year. 400+ vintage & antique shops gather, along with barn sales, women's boutiques & home decor shops in northern Illinois and southern Wisconsin to roll out the red carpet for guests on March 5 & 6, 2021. You just have to grab your friends, hit the road, and shop hard! View the list of local participants at www.vintageshophop.blogspot.com or facebook Vintage Shop Hop in your area and shop at all of your local favorites. Enjoy! Glancer Magazine • MARCH 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 74. How to Grow Your Own Herb Garden • March 20 VIRTUAL EVENT–Spice up your favorite meals or cocktails with the herbs you love with The Growing Place. Kyle L., Perennial & Rose Manager, and Joannie R., Aurora Retail Perennial Manager, will teach herb garden basics and guide you in planting and caring for your own scent-sational planter. To purchase the Herb Kit and to join the webinar visit www.thegrowingplace.com/events/grow-your-own- herbs-herb-planter-take-home-kit/2. A Taste of France Wine Dinner • March 11 NAPERVILLE–Enjoy 5 courses paired with 5 wines.You'll taste... Maison Antech Cremant de Li-moux; Aubert & Mathieu Chardonnay, Limoux 2018; Aubert & Mathieu Pinot Noir, Languedoc 2018; Chateau Maucoil Chateauneuf du Pape 2017; Chateau de L’Ou Secret de Schistes Cotes Catalanes 2016. Reserve your spot today at www.sixtyfourreserveroom.com

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I also like to take a large or-nate frame and then add a piece of corrugated metal that I have rusted with muri-atic acid, then add a wreath for a traditional, yet industrial vibe.” She says soft/muted colors are still in, with a pop of color brought in with pillows or ac-cent pieces that can easily be changed with the trends. One big development she is seeing for 2021 is peel and stick wallpaper not only for walls, but also for ceilings that mimic expensive looks, such as tin tile– but at a frac-tion of the cost. Eclectic chairs that are the same color tone and share the same seat fabric also help bring your personality into a space, as well as open hutches with your treasured memories. “Hiding appliances is also on the rise. I am fearless in try-ing things,” Ruth says. “My refrigerator was an ugly white one; but instead of buying a new one, I painted the sides and top with black appliance paint and then the front of it added beadboard, trim, and handles.” From sandpaper and paint-brushes to keyboards and hard drives, Ruth breathes creative energy 24 hours a day, 7 days a week! Find Ruth’s unique pieces at The Rustic Fox in Aurora.COVER STORYGlancer Magazine • MARCH 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 11

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Glancer Magazine • MARCH 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 13GLEN ELLYN–This Glen Ellyn mom of two children ages 9 and 12 years old understands how important it is to design a home with kid-friendly materials like upholstered furniture that can stand up to Sharpies and mud, as well as incorporating new wave technology such as a voice activated or touchless kitchen faucet for ease of washing those messy hands from all the cooking, baking, art projects, and mudpies! When Alisha worked for Pottery Barn, the concept of her own business Styled Interiors was created after countless interactions with customers. “I recognized the need to offer an interior design service that is price-conscious, yet does not lack in quality, design or client service,” she says. “I believe that you don’t need a gigantic budget to have your home looking the way you hope and dream.” She loves to transform homes by adding dimension through texture, color, mixed metals/materials, layers, and depth by sourcing the perfect decor, furniture, and furnishings; and as a Certified Psychological Paint Color Expert™, Alisha integrates all the hottest colors of 2021 - shades of blues, whites, greiges, blacks, charcoals while bringing in pops of color to provide interest and personality. “When working with a client I always remind them that their home is for them to enjoy,” Alisha says. “I want them to feel 100% comfortable and relaxed in their own space.” With that being said, she draws inspiration from a home's architecture style, personal statement pieces like a rug, artwork, or wallpaper; and of course, Pinterest or Instagram ideas. “I'm obsessed with The Frame TV by Samsung. This isn't just any TV. It displays a curated collection of art when it is off. This is a beautiful addition to a room especially when a little more sophistication is re-quired,” she adds. “Whatever your mood or style you can change up the displayed artwork. Simply brilliant!” Adding smart technology is all the rage in design these days and she is also fascinated with motorized or automated window treatments, re-frigerators, coffee makers, and even toasters that can all be controlled using Alexa. Alisha loves that even when life is busy with work and kids, quality and uniqueness can be found close to home at her personal favorites, such as Amy Storm & Company Glen Ellyn, 610 Home Geneva, The Perfect Thing Wheaton, Good Roots Glen Ellyn, The Shade Store Oakbrook; and, when she needs a total refresh and recharge she grabs her best friend and husband and heads for a date night at Moveable Feast, Maize & Mash, Marche, and Common Good Cocktail House. Alisha RylanderWest Suburban Interior Designer Shares on Her Love for Design & the Latest Trends

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Glancer Magazine • MARCH 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 15YORKVILLE–Cheryl has been designing and building res-idential projects for 32 years. She is President and Chief Ar-chitect of CL Design-Build, Inc. and loves that architecture allows her to solve problems and conquer challenges cre-atively while considering all her client’s needs, design ele-ments, structural elements, aesthetics, budget, and more. Her three grown children live in three different time zones, so she gains inspiration from across the country and takes her knowledge and experiences to create striking exteriors and enrich spaces with detailed ceilings, built-ins, unique window patterns, and indoor/outdoor connectivity. Although large islands with quartz countertops and dec-orative hoods are still trending in the Kitchen, and storage and technology are still very important, she says she is see-ing an increase in size and focus of the Walk-in Pantry as a second kitchen with cabinets and countertops to hold bulky countertop appliances; as well as, the elimination of formal spaces such as Dining and Living Rooms, and oversized Master Bedrooms for more flexible and functional spaces. “I also believe that health and wellness features such as air purifiers, automated ventilation systems, touchless faucets, or Low VOC products are on the top of mind for many,” Che-ryl says. “Biophilic design, connecting with nature to improve health, is definitely the trend for 2021 and beyond. This con-cept suggests that natural light, fresh air, exposure to the out-door environment, plants and natural landscaping are better for our overall mental and physical health.” She adds that the colors of 2021 will nourish us with earth-based hues and warm neutrals creating a harmonious and relaxing setting. “We will see deep hue accent colors that complement the neutrals like Sherwin Williams Urbane Bronze, the color of the year for 2021.” (continued) Cheryl LeeWest Suburban Custom Home Builder and Remodeler Shares Her Inspiration

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#3 | Beautiful Entry Doors Opal Enterprises, Naperville www.opalexteriors.com Your front door is the first impression visitors will get of your home. Cus-tom doors to your specific tastes to show your personality through end-less combinations of colors, patterns, hardware options, decorative glass, and more. #4 | Frame TVs Olmstead’s TV, Batavia www.olmsteadstv.com TV when it’s on. Art when its off. Bring the beauty of a distinguished art collection into your home with the Samsung Frame TV. The Frame is more than just a TV, it’s a canvas that reflects your style and what you love. With access to over 1,200 works of art, you can find the perfect piece that suits your mood and the occasion. #5 | Abstract and Functional Art Gallery 28, Geneva www.gallery28.biz Abstract and Functional Art suggests that furniture need not be simply functional, but that it can also make an artistic statement usually re-served for painting or sculpture, such as studio furniture. By combining color, form, pattern, and texture in ways that produce new and unique results in the form of function and surface décor where everyday objects provide visual excitement. #6 | Indoor/Outdoor Connectivity Timberbuilt Rooms, St. Charles The modern sunroom brings the outdoors in by bringing the warmth of sunshine, the light of daylight, and the feeling of being in a natural set-ting without the inconveniences of bugs, rain, snow, wind, etc. A gor-geous climate controlled all-seasons room enhances indoor/outdoor connectivity. #7 | Flexible and Functional Spaces Murphy Bed Lifestyles, Darien www.murphybedlifestyles.com Turn any room in your home into a multi-purpose flex space with the addition of a wall bed and built-in cabinets. Style and functionality are all the rage for 2021 with e-learning and work from home environments that need to serve dual purposes as guest spaces. Glancer Magazine • MARCH 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 19 #8 | Walk-In Pantries HomeWerks, Naperville www.homewerksinc.net Designers are seeing an increase in size and focus of the Walk-in Pantry as a second kitchen with cabinets and countertops to hold bulky countertop appliances. The experienced designers at HomeWerks specialize in understanding style and trends, which is imperative when creating a state-of-the-art kitchen with the latest appliances and overall functionality in design and lay-out. #9 | Outdoor Living Narnia Landscaping Design and Construction Inc., Wheaton https://wheatonlandscaping.com/ These days, more and more homeowners are retrofitting their properties with outdoor kitchens, outdoor family rooms, fire-places, and special lighting to take advantage of the modern comforts of indoors during the warmer months outside. #10 | Eco-Friendly Lovitt Blinds & Drapery, Downers Grove www.lovittblinds.com Fortunately, by making smart choices, you can reduce your car-bon footprint and ensure a healthier environment for you and your family by considering woven wood shades that are made from renewable materials, like bamboo, grasses, and jute, they can stand up to a variety of weather conditions and offer texture to a room which is on trend for 2021. Opal Exteriors

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DOWNTOWN NAPERVILLESo Much to Do!ST. PADDY’S 5K Log Race Times Online NAPERVILLE–The 2021 St. Paddy’s Day 5K will be held as a virtual run. The organizers have teamed up with Downtown Naperville to help pro-mote the event and all registered runners will be registered to win gift cards to Downtown Naper-ville stores. Runners will be able to log their race time from 3/1/2021–3/31/2021. Organizers want to keep the 5K run active for years to come, but more importantly we want to help supporting the stores that make Downtown Naperville great. Sign up today and support your city. QUIGLEY’S IRISH PUB Reservations Now Available NAPERVILLE–Quigley’s Irish Pub is now accepting reser-vations for Saturday March 13th and St. Patrick’s Day (Wednesday March 17th). Please call Monday thru Friday 10am-5pm to book a reservation. (630) 428-4774. ANDERSON’S BOOKSHOP Virtual Event with Rosaria Munda/Flamefall March 23 NAPERVILLE–Join Anderson’s Bookshops for a virtual book launch event with Rosaria Munda in conversation with Rachel Hartman to discuss Rosaria’s new book Flamefall! Revolutionary flames ignite around Annie, Lee, and a brand new character in the follow-up to FIREBORNE.www.downtownnaperville.com Glancer Magazine • MARCH 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 21

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BULL & BEAR AXE THROWING MONTGOMERY–In the midwest, we’ve learned to bring the outdoors in. Especially, when it per-tains to our beloved sports. Think soccer, hockey, lacrosse, golf and tennis … just to name a few. These once outdoor-centric sports have found their way indoors - creating oppor-tunities for recreational competition to be en-joyed year-round. And lucky us, there's another sport that’s aimed to please indoor-sport enthu-siasts - axe throwing. Once a sport of the mid-dle ages, it has evolved into a global craze. In July of 2019, Bull & Bear Axe Throwing opened in Montgomery. Axe throwing is an individual sport that is played with a group of people - think darts-meets-bowling. Individuals throw a 1.5 lb. hatchet (ie: axe) towards a wooden target with a marked bullseye - points are awarded based on where the axe strikes the target. Fun fact - BBAT uses cottonwood boards from a local supplier. This softer, high-moisture wood allows the axe to stick better to its target (#winning!). And old, used cottonwood boards are recycled into fire-wood. The dim lighting, wooden floors and unique cages create an ‘outdoor-feel’ and unique ambiance for patrons to enjoy. BBAT is a proud member of the World Axe Throwing League too. In fact, dedicated WATL trained coaches help groups, leagues and beginners learn technique, game rules and safety tips. It’s all about the experience. In a world full of new-age complexities and challenges - it’s no wonder many have turned to a simple, straightforward (and ancient!) sport. It’s empowering and a great destresser. We recommend wea-ring your favorite flannel and channeling your inner lumberjack. It’s AXE-TREMELY FUN! UNIQUE IN SUBURBIAby Brianna Bartemeyer Photos SubmittedUNIQUEin Suburbia22 • WESTERN SUBURBS • MARCH 2021 • Glancer Magazine

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UNIQUECOMMUNITY LIVINGDOWNTOWN DOWNERS GROVE A Trending West Suburban Hot Spot A variety of small businesses, amazing owners and community support makes downtown Downers Grove the destination it is today. Downtown Downers Grove has been active in welcoming new businesses, in the midst of a global pandemic. It recently welcomed Gia Mia Pizza Bar, Head Space Barbershop & Topiaire Plant Boutique. In the next month, Downtown Downers Grove will welcome two new restaurants– Bar Chido and The Outpost Mexican Eatery. Plan your day to explore downtown Downers Grove! Its boutiques have some-thing for everyone and its restaurants & cafes can please every taste bud. Whether you are comfortable with in-store shopping, indoor dining, outdoor din-ing, taking to go, delivery or curbside pick-up, our business owners are happy to accommodate your needs. New to DownersGlancer Magazine • MARCH 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 23

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24 • WESTERN SUBURBS • MARCH 2021 • Glancer Magazine Scrumptious Menu Finds to Love NAPERVILLE–Delicious burgers, craft beer and great service. That's what this Downtown Naperville favorite is all about! Since Jackson Avenue Pub opened in July of 2012, their focus has been creating a unique menu featuring creative food options and pairing it with local and specialty craft beers. Their evolving menu is constantly introducing new specials and seasonal favorites to include local faves like their Blackened Chicken Sliders and The Bleau Horse Burger complete with bleu cheese crumbles, horseradish cream and other fun flavors Their-cozy building is conveniently located in the heart of downtown Naperville at 7 W. Jackson Avenue. Whether it's your first time, or you're one of their regulars, check out what's new today at Jackson Avenue Pub. Cheers! www.jacksonavepub.comDINING DELIGHTSWEST SUBURBAN DININGDININGDINING + COCKTAILS

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18 • WESTERN SUBURBS • JULY 2020 • Glancer MagazineGlancer Magazine • MARCH 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 25DINING + COCKTAILSCCoocckkttaaiillssStockholm’s Bew Pub In Geneva Here’s Why It’s Your Friendly Neighborhood “Vardshus” GENEVA–Have you been? If not, you are for sure missing out. Stock-holm's is a full service restaurant and micro-brewery in a comfortable at-mosphere located in downtown Geneva at 306 W. State Street. Their menu is freshly prepared, with the addition of a delightful brunch, and their hand-crafted beers are brewed in an old world tradition, naturally conditioned and unfiltered, for a full balanced flavor. So much to love! The unique personality’s of their staff members is what has made Stock-holm's your friendly neighborhood "vardshus" (tavern in Swedish). Stockholm's pays homage to those who helped bring Stockholm's to life with their names forever on the back of the bar stools. Pretty cool. Visit Stockholm's in the heart of Geneva, where you will find delicious food, craft brews and a welcoming atmosphere filled with tradition. www.stockholmsbrewpub.comBar Chindo Opening this Spring Coming to 1012 Curtiss St. in Downtown Downers DOWNERS GROVE–The former site of Mia Cantina will soon be Bar Chindo. In April, Sam Vlahos, co-owner of Pierce Tavern will be bringing a new twist to Downtown Downers Grove by offering small and large plates, with a focus on sharing, along with a unique margarita and cocktail menu. The food menu selection will feature six different tacos, along with a rotating taco every week. The inventive tacos will come served up on corn or blue corn tortillas that are made in-house. We can’t wait! Hate Winter? Then You’ll Love this Drink Obscurity Brewing & Craft Mead Invites You In ELBURN–Like many, Obscurity in Elburn is also kinda sick of winter, so they invite you in to enjoy their appropriately named cocktail “Skrew Winter!” Made with Skrewball peanut butter whiskey, chocolate liqueur, butterscotch schnapps, Godiva white chocolate, and topped with a house made raspberry dissipating foam, if this doesn’t warm you up nothing will! Located at 113 North Street, Elburn. www.drinkobscurity.com DININGPhoto Credit friendseat.com

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TrendY FAMILY TRAVEL TRENDS AMID THE PANDEMIC COVID-19 has challenged families in different ways, and many had to cancel or reschedule trips during the pandemic due to travel restrictions, which meant missing out on quality time with loved ones and the mental health and self-care benefits of going on vacation. Although 61% of families had a trip canceled due to the pan-demic in 2020, travel is still top of mind as 82% of families al-ready have travel plans in mind for 2021, according to the 2021 Vrbo Trend Report. The report, which includes vacation rental marketplace data as well as survey data from family travelers, also revealed some travel habits that arose during the pandemic are likely to remain popular this year. “Let’s face it, the pandemic makes it tough to predict what travel will look like in 2021,” said Melanie Fish, Vrbo’s travel expert. “That’s why we combined search and demand trends with a first-of-its-kind traveler survey of U.S. families. The combination gives us the most accurate picture possible of the plans families are making.” 3 Pandemic Trends that May Stick AroundTraveler26 • WESTERN SUBURBS • MARCH 2021 • Glancer MagazineTRENDY TRAVELER

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Glancer Magazine • MARCH 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 27TRENDY TRAVELERConsider these pandemic-era trends as you make your vacation plans moving for-ward: Staying in the Driver’s Seat With travel restrictions and so-cial distancing guidelines in place throughout much of 2020, many families opted to avoid flying and visiting crowded places by instead jumping in the car to hit the open road. This trend is likely to continue in 2021 with 59% of families saying they are more likely to drive instead of fly on their next trip. A change of scenery can be refreshing and motivating after staring at the same four walls in your home, so consider taking a road trip and exploring a new destination, even if it’s just down the road from home. Mixing Work and Play Many people were forced to adapt to working from home or facilitating e-learning for their children due to COVID-19. While turning homes into makeshift offices or class-rooms wasn’t an easy task for many families, the schedule flexibility provided by the remote setup allowed for the rise of the “flexcation” – mixing vacation time with virtual work and school. In fact, 1 in 3 families surveyed said they were able to travel because they were working from home, and 52% of those who took a flexcation during the pandemic found the experience refreshing with 67% saying they would do it again. Another benefit of flexcations is experiencing amenities you may not have access to at home. Consider some of Vrbo’s most sought-after amenities and vacation spots when planning your next getaway: • Splash in the sun in Cape Coral, Florida where 92% of vacation rentals have pools. • Cook over an open fire in Se-vierville, Tennessee, where barbecue grills are included at 87% of vacation homes. • Cozy up by the fire with a book and some hot chocolate in Steam-boat Springs, Colorado where fire-places are an amenity offered in 87% of vacation rentals. Seeking Wide Open Spaces Many travelers gravitate toward vacationing in peaceful and picturesque destinations, and the open sky, fresh air and scenic views may be even more appealing amid the pandemic. According to the report, 61% of U.S. families said they are more likely to visit an outdoorsy destination than an urban one and 54% are more likely to head to a national park than an amusement park. Find more ideas for planning your next vacation – or flex-cation – along with the full Trend Report at vrbo.com. www.vrbo.com Sevierville, TN Colorado Springs, CO

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HOME DESIGNHOME DESIGN + DECORNONA JO’S Meet the Designers The popular Naperville home accessory & gift boutique offers a wide array of services. From silk floral arrangements and window treatments, to in-home design consultation. Meet this month’s featured designer: Maureen Schuler – Interior Designer Maureen has been on the Nona Jo’s team for two years. Her design philosophy is based on blending practical living with aesthetic beauty. She is excellent at listening to her clients’ design needs and interpreting what they desire for their home. Maureen loves creating a space that is truly unique to the client and believes that your home should tell the story of who lives there. Maureen’s creative skills lie in: Home Selections: Furniture, Room Layout, Adding Texture and Dimension to a Space; Acces-sorizing and Staging Homes; the Small Details Matter Updating and Reinventing a Home’s Style Learn more today at www.nonajos.comBeautiful SyleGlancer Magazine • MARCH 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 35

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BENET SPECIAL SPACES NAPERVILLE–Your bedroom should be your sanctuary. I know mine is. A place to go to relax, read, take a nap, and just get away. If there was ever a need for a child to have a place to escape from their daily struggles and be im-mersed in their own dream world, it would be the children who endure the long process of cancer treatments. The national organization, Special Spaces, helps de-velop that very special place to be a kid by creating dream bedroom makeovers for de-pendent children ages 2-19 with cancer that are within one year of treatment. One of the local branches in Naperville, Benet Special Spaces, was just recently founded in August of 2020 by a group of Benet Academy students that came together to help the community. “Getting to see the joy that we bring not only to the child but the whole family, warms our hearts,” says Jaya Punwani, Founder/President of Benet Special Spaces. Since opening the Naperville chapter, the organization has already raised over $12,000. Each bedroom costs $5,000 to ensure they are giving kids the most creative and comfortable room possible. The pandemic has made fundraising slightly more difficult; however, they are lucky to have generous businesses and sponsors to help fund their projects. In normal circumstances, once the necessities are pur-chased, they transform the bed-room and have a bedroom reveal day. Due to current Covid restrictions, Special Spaces created a safe alter-native to the reveal days. It is called Bedroom in a Box where the team sets up a tent outside that acts as a makeshift room and is decorated. The family is then provided with all the mate-rials for the themed room which they use to complete the bed-room. There are so many ways the community can get involved with Benet Special Spaces by donat-ing funds, sponsoring a room or attending a fundraising event. Last fall, they had their first vir-tual Thanksgiving 5K, and they are currently planning a Special Spaces Charity Golf event. For more information, or to donate to the cause, visit their website at www.benetspecialspaces.wixsite.com/ spreadthelove/our-mission. 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 cre-ative writing from DePaul University and is a veteran of Chicago’s theater and com-mercial world as well as a graduate of the Second City Improv School. Mindy lives in Naperville with her husband, three children and the cutest dog in the land. VIEW MINDY’S MONTHLY COLUMN AT www.GlancerMagazine.com/to-give-to-inspireLocal Branch of National Organization Brings Joy to Kids with Cancer with a Bedroom Makeover CARING + SHARINGGlancer Magazine • MARCH 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 39

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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’’BBiieenn40 • WESTERN SUBURBS • MARCH 2021 • Glancer Magazine

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Glancer Magazine • MARCH 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 41Dad & Daughter Team Head to ABC’s Shark Tank Wheaton/Naperville Father Daughter to Appear on Shark Tank March 12 ABC’s Shark Tank – it’s a dream we all dream about where budding entrepreneurs are given the chance to secure business deals that could make them millionaires for inventing solutions to common day problems. Lindsey Fleischhauer, 38 of Naperville, and her father, Stan Valiulis, 63 of Rockford will realize the dream on Friday, March 12, 2021 at 7pm CST on ABC with The Totes Babies Car Seat Carrier, a product to make shopping with babies simpler. It holds over 75 pounds and allows full shopping cart access with most shopping carts large and small. When Lindsey and her husband Mark had their first son three years ago, she dreaded going shopping because she could never get all that she needed due to the car seat taking up the whole shopping cart. “If I tried taking him out of the car seat he would scream and cry; so, I knew there had to be a better way!” Lindsey says. “I then went straight to my dad who holds over 40 pat-ents and we drew up some ideas and made our first prototype from a curtain rod and a drop cloth stapled together. I took my son shopping with the handmade pro-totype and it worked amazing in which I knew we were onto something!” Although this is Lindsey’s first invention, Stan worked at his dad’s company South-ern Imperial and has enjoyed seeing pro-ducts prototyped, tooled, and marketed in the tune of over $100,000,000. “Many are still selling after the business was sold,” he says. “I am hoping to use these skills I have developed with more products for Totes Babies.” Together, he and Lindsey are currently working on some new inven-tions, such as the iPad and iPhone holder with Totes Babies which are also available on Walmart.com, BuyBuy Baby, and Amazon.com. They both agree preparing for Shark Tank was a lot of work, but such an incredible experience, and cannot wait for the show to air. –Kristen Kucharski, Photos Submitted by Totes BabiesWEST SUBURBAN VIP

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Kid StuffFairy Garden Class March 20 • 10-2pm SYCAMORE– Come meet Fairy, Aria Rose and participate in an interactive storytelling and sing along experience followed by the creation of your own fairy garden! Meet and greet and photo ops provided to each family after fairy garden class in-structions. Tickets Cost: $38. Parent/Guardian is required to be in at-tendance with each child. Held at Blumen Gardens in Sycamore, Illinois. www.blumengar-dens.com/upcoming-eventsSt. Charles St. Patrick’s Day Celebration • March 13 ST. CHARLES– Always a favorite, families will experience the parade a litt;e bit different this year. Though the 2021 St. Pat-rick's Celebration will have a decreased footprint due to health and safety restrictions from Executive Orders from the State Guidelines, activities will include a festive photo opportunity area, roaming bagpipers and a Treasure Hunt around town. Stay connected for more details! www.stcstpatricksparade.com/event-detailsAmerican Girl Bunny Brunch March 20 • 10am-11am CHICAGO– Spring has sprung and it’s time to hop on in to American Girl’s Bunny Brunch! You and your girl will enjoy a marvelous meal; plus, she’ll get a chance to see the season’s celebrity, the Easter Bunny. $28.00 per participant. Please note, prepaid reserva-tions are non-exchangeable and non-refundable.Re-servations required. For girls ages 3 and up. /www.americangirl.com/retail/chicago42 • WESTERN SUBURBS • MARCH 2021 • Glancer Magazine

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Glancer Magazine • MARCH 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 43Brookfield Zoo Run April 1-May 30, 2021 VIRTUAL EVENT–Join in on the fun for a virtual Spring Run starting April 1, 2021! The Zoo is fi-nalizing details now. Please check back for ad-ditional information soon.Make sure you sign up for the Brookfield Zoo email newsletter so you re-ceive regular updates, the latest event news, and special offers direct to your inbox! www.czs.org/SpringRun2021Camp Naper at Naper Settlement Returns with 18 New Camps NAPERVILLE–Camp Naper will inspire your child to learn about the past and make connections to the future! Choose from 18 unique camps for every interest! From Camp Sketch & Skulpt to STEM Camp, each camp offers unique hands-on activities led by the museum's team of skilled educators. Unless otherwise noted, all camps are recommended for children entering grades 1-6 in the fall. www.napersettlement.org/campnaper KID STUFF 2021

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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 proce-dures, and oral surgery. This includes Invisalign, BOOST Teeth Whitening, CEREC one-day crowns, and same-day emergency 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 patients according to their own schedules and convenience with all Covid-19 precau-tions taken. Stop by and see why others in the community have trusted Valley View Dental for over 20 years. Located In Naperville, Montgomery & Romeoville Valley View Dental • www.vvdental.com DDEENNTTAALLHEALTH + WELLNESS44 • WESTERN SUBURBS • MARCH 2021 • Glancer Magazine

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Glancer Magazine • MARCH 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 45EDUCATION NEWSCCAARREEEERR TTIIMMEECAREER VISION All About Aptitude Testing What are you doing after high school? After college? Are you going to college? Do you need help to find the right career choice? The Career Vision Aptitude Advantage can help. Aptitudes identify your strongest talents and the jobs you would enjoy, and be good at doing. Combining your aptitudes with your interests, Career Vision shows you specific career choices. There are resources about college majors, job out-look, and what you need to prepare for those careers. If you have asked “What should I study?”, “What will I do after college?” and want to learn how Career Vision can help, give this reputable organization based out of Glen Ellyn a call. Their assessment process is a positive and objective way to give you the confidence to make good career choices. And, your Personal Career Consultant will take time to discuss the test results with you and also go over all of your choices. If you are going to college and want to know why and what to study, reach out to Career Vision today. If you have graduated college and still haven’t found your best fit, the professional consultants at Career Vision can help you, too. For over 30 years they have been helping people find their best career choices. Career Vision • www.careervision.org • (630) 469-6270

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Glancer Magazine • MARCH 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 49HOLY WINE! TOURS, TRIVIA, TASTINGS, YOGA, BINGO! Do you remember the I Love Lucy episode where she is stomping grapes in Toro? This episode has always made me laugh as she trudges, jogs, dances, and do-si-dos in the large barrel of grapes; and it always inspired me to want to try it myself! Lucky for me, I might get the chance right here in Plainfield, Illinois as things hopefully return to normal soon and regular events return as we once knew them. In the time being, Sable Creek Winery is still offer-ing many other great events per the current guide-lines for hosting small groups in their urban warehouse winery. As a huge fan of sweets, I was drawn to their Wine and Chocolate tasting experience and was educated on all the wines that are made right on sight by local residents Sandra and Bill Har-ris. Who knew we had a winery right here in the western suburbs with barrel tastings and tours and a host of many other events such as Wine Yoga, Wine Bingo, Wine Trivia, Wine Tastings, Wine Pair-ings, Wine Tours, Wine Escapes, and the coveted Moms Wine Night Out! With weekly live entertainment by local artists and open mic nights promoting musicians who want to showcase their skills, this boutique winery is on trend for 2021 while they grow and re-spect the safety guidelines for our changing times. My favorite part of our personal wine pairing was the Peanut Butter and Jelly Tasting which offered a Fannie May Peanut Butter Buckeye matched with Sable Creek’s own Sweet Purple Lady. Wow! So incredibly delicious! Our group is also huge fans of charcuterie boards and looks forward to returning for tray pairing with other prized favorites; additionally, we hope to get tickets for the barrel tasting tour on March 6th – a unique event that will remind you of being in California wine country. We really enjoyed all the exclusive, fun, and most certainly tasty happenings withing mi-nutes of our hometown! OVERVIEW Sable Creek Winery, located in Plainfield Illi-nois, is a boutique winery producing artisan wines right on site. They make various wine styles from grapes purchased from premier vine-yards in California, Illinois, Michigan, Missouri, and New York and offering year round events, entertain-ment, and ambience. Sable Creek Winery 14912 Eastern Ave #103,Plainfield (815) 214-9463 • www.sablecreekwinery.com Hours: Closed Mon & Tues; 4-10pm Wed & Thurs; 11am-10pm Fri & Sat; 11am-5pm Sunday Price $: Free events. Wines start at $15.99/Bottle ABOUT THE WRITER Naperville mom Kristen Kucharski graduated from Illinois State University in 1992 with an International Business Degree. She has two energetic daughters and her house is always full of children. Kristen’s column titled, Mom's Little Black Book, is a monthly feature written for moms who are looking for ways to keep their kids busy. Read her past columns at www.glancermagazine.com/bloggersby Kristen Kucharski Photos Submitted MOM’S lile black bookMOM’S LITTLE BLACK BOOK

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52 • WESTERN SUBURBS • MARCH 2021 • Glancer Magazine1. A Waterfront Paradise 26 SOUTH STREET, GENEVA–Custom Hogan Design and Con-struction brand new Fox River waterfront paradise. Traditional living with modern elegance. This home marries the rich beauty of the out-doors with the most desired comfort and modern features indoors. Wrap-around porch, screened-in porch, private roof top deck, vaulted beamed ceilings, open floor plan trimmed with the finest fea-tures from breathtaking millwork to top-notch finishes. The kitchen boasts quartz counters, stainless Subzero and Wolf appliances along with a delectable walk-in pantry. Smart technology throughout! www.realtor.com/realestateandhomes-detail/26-South-St_Geneva_IL_60134_M83751-69074 The real estate market is hot and we have found some totally unique homes that we think you’re going to love. From a waterfront paradise to a green dream home and many homes in between– these beautiful west suburban real estate listings are truly so unique in their own special way. Here are 7 Spectacular Totally Unique Local Homes for Sale Right Now....1.TOTALLY UNIQUE LOCAL HOMES FOR SALE RIGHT NOW

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Glancer Magazine • MARCH 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 533. Your “Green” Dream Home 428 8TH AVE, LAGRANGE–Five bedrooms, classic stucco foursquare home built in 1913, gutted and upgraded in 2009 with green, recycled, repurposed, and hypoallergenic materials. Low maintenance, cost and energy-efficient, and comfortable with many luxuries. Conveniently lo-cated in La Grange's historic district, this fully renovated, Geothermal energy-efficient is a healthy, comfortable respite offering a 50-year war-rantied aluminum roof, energy-star windows, cistern, permeable pave-ment, insulated garage, a recirculating, tankless hot water/boiler. Beautifully and naturally lit throughout, the remodel project utilized sus-tainably sourced, environmentally friendly, building materials. www.greenhomesforsale.com/listing/view/ united_states_illinois_lagrange_60525_20569 2. An Italian Inspired Villa 7S719 DONWOOD DR., NAPERVILLEImagine living in a stunning estate that will leave you feeling as if you are residing in a luxurious villa located in the heart of Tuscany, Italy. This custom built Meullner home is a one of kind situated on a beautiful 2.3-acre property. With 14,668 square feet of quality details, the home features 7 bedrooms (all ensuite), 9 bathrooms, 12 fireplaces, 2 fire pits, an outdoor kitchen, 4 car garage, elevator, 5 verandas, a trattoria, hearth room, Caterer's kitchen, inground pool, hot tub, & so much more! Additionally, it has Smart Home Automation throughout for convenient, modern living. www.realtor.com/realestateandhomes- detail/7S719-Donwood-Dr_Naperville_ IL_60540_M86472-76489 2.3.7 SPECTACULAR

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56 • WESTERN SUBURBS • MARCH 2021• Glancer Magazine4. A Converted Dairy Barn 55 CHIPPEWA DR, OSWEGO–Live the Lifestyle that you desire in this incredible, meticulously converted dairy barn, all 10,200 sq. ft. of it., plus all the charm of the old barn with its authentic timber frame construction and dovetail joinery. While the home offers lots of space with ample privacy, it also offers 1.4 acres, and the op-tion for additional acreage with an equestrian facility, grooms’ quarters and an additional 1,800 sq. ft. plus ranch. The 6 bedroom, 6.5 baths, 4 car garage home provides the warmth and coziness that comes with all-natural materials and an energy efficient super-insulated design. Additional spaces include the exercise/art stu-dio/or 7th bedroom/guest room with exterior access and a 6'x12' endless therapy pool. Handicapped accessible with wide doors plus a concrete ramp at the garage entry, as well as an elevator between the grade and main level. www.realtor.com/realestateandhomes-detail/ 55-Chippewa-Dr_Oswego_IL_60543_M70983-52196 5. A “Last of Its Kind” Opportunity 2S420 MADISON ST., WHEATON–Last chance to build new construction on this street. This property is located on a half-acre and has a tear down home on it. It is the only property backing to the beautiful St James Farm and siding to the Prairie Path. This teardown is packaged in a combined price which includes charming front home and beautiful buildable lot. These were purchased at different times and are not required to be sold together. Beautiful half acre lot sur-rounded by multi-million-dollar homes with a large easement between the lot and the Prairie Path, providing much open space. This is a one-of-a-kind unique opportunity. www.realtor.com/realestateand homes-detail/M9524324530 7 SPECTACULAR4.5.

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Glancer Magazine • MARCH 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 557. Contemporary Meets Rustic 3524 SPRING RD, OAK BROOK–The best of every world with a contemporary look, a modern feel, and a rustic-like setting! Soaring ceilings, custom dual fireplace, and pictur-esque window views add as much character to the interior as the exterior. Upon entry, you are drawn into widening views of Fullersburg Woods and Salt Creek. The open con-cept floor plan is equipped with a state-of-the-art kitchen, floating staircase and first floor Master Bedroom Suite. The lower level was designed for amusement and relaxation with an exercise room, steam room, wine closet, movie the-ater room, and putting green, gym. For those seeking a place where nature and high end living meet- this is the one! www.realtor.com/realestateandhomes-detail/ 3524-Spring-Rd_Oak-Brook_IL_60523_M80982-59307 6. Two Story Penthouse on the Riverwalk 520 SOUTH WASHINGTON STREET PH04, NAPERVILLE–Room to roam in this luxury two story penthouse in Downtown Naperville. Right on the River Walk just a quick stroll to Downtown shops, restaurants, and night life. This condo offers three full baths and one-half bath, three bedrooms, large loft with custom built ins for a great home office. Walk in closets with built in closet organizers. Kitchen has huge island, granite, upgraded stainless appliances. Three balconies. Two underground parking spaces and large storage space included. Gas fireplace in living room. www.point2homes.com/US/Condo-For-Sale/IL/Naperville/Downtown-Naper-ville/520-South-Washington-Street/102597950.html 6.7 SPECTACULAR7.

Glancer Magazine, March 2021

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