TABLE OF CONTENTS MAY 2021 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 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 com Glancer 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 Magazine Inc All rights reserved Magazine reproduction in whole or in part is strictly prohibited MAY 2021 Vol 19 MOMTIME This month we are celebrating Mom with a special MOMTIME issue Our pages will delight you in every way filled with stories of motherhood Subscribe today for daily weeky and monthly updates at www GlancerMagazine com MOMTIME In keeping with our belief that it s always better to give a gift of spending time together vs a tangible item our 10 Trends In Gifting Mome the Experience features fun ideas when it comes to treating mom to an experience of a lifetime this Mother s Day and where to find them locally Along the same lines of being together with those you love our 7 Spectacular Places to Celebrate Generations of Love unveils unique events that are centered around family that you can enjoy this season Thank you for reading this special issue we value your readership and your viewership and we wish all of the moms granmothers sisters and aunts a very special month celebrating all that is beautiful and fabulous about each of you Enjoy Copy right 2 0 2 1 All Rights Reserved Glancer Magazine Inc MAY 2021 CELEBRATING MARVELOUS MOMS IN THE WESTERN SUBURBS This month s issue is filled with so much beauty from our Cover Feature introducing our readers to Marvelous Moms of Many who share their stories of love life laughter to our Fabulous Family from Glen Ellyn who worked together to create something so pure and wholesome our pages this month will leave you smiling in amazement Lindy Kleivo Publishing Director West Suburban Area With Her Daughter Jaclyn Who Turned 11 Years Old This Month 5 Hello From Glancer Magazine 7 5 Things to Do 8 COVER Marvelous Moms of Many 18 Downtown Naperville Be In The Mix 20 Naperville History at Naper Settlement 22 10 Trends In Gifting Mom the Experience 26 Unique In Suburbia The Growing Place 27 New to Downtown Downers Grove 28 Dining Cocktails 30 Food Kitchen Introduing Entree Kitchen 32 Moms Little Black Book Heritage Harbor 33 Home Decor Hot Spot Trend Relic 32 Trendy Traveler 6 Fun U S Destinations 36 Million Dollar Listing Naperville 40 Literary Local 42 To Give To Inspire G L O W 5K 44 Meet Penny O Brien of Naperville 45 One Fabulous Family from Glen Ellyn 46 Fitness First Local Experts Share 48 Kid Stuff Springtime Fun for Every Age 50 Summer Days Camps Programs Fun 58 Boutique Essentials 60 Prom Time 30 Off Select Dresses 64 7 Spectacular List SHARE OUR FEATURES ONLINE TODAY Glancer Magazine MAY 2021 WESTERN SUBURBS 5
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1. Treat Mom to Scrumptious Truffles GENEVA / NAPERVILLE–The key to a woman's heart? Chocolate! Head into Rocky Mountain Chocolate Fac-tory in Geneva and Naperville to check out the the wide selection of truffles and sweet treats to complete your Mother's Day present. www.www.rmcf.com3. Try a New Color for Spring NAPERVILLE–You can never go wrong with a Signature Manicure. Here are all of the new neutral shades from the #OPIHollywood Collection from L to R: • I’m an Extra • Suzi Calls the Paparazzi • Hollywood & Vibe • Movie Buff The #OPIHollywood Collection is avail-able now at ME SPA in Naperville. Visit on-line to book your next manicure. www.me-spas.com 4. 6th Annual Mother’s Day Chocolate Walk Downtown Naperville NAPERVILLE–Join 360 Youth Services and Downtown Naper-ville this Mother's Day Weekend for a safe and fun Downtown Event! Each participant receives a tin for gathering all your choc-olate treats, as well as a lanyard with a map touring many won-derful Downtown Naperville Shops. At each stop you will experience a chocolate tasty treat to enjoy outside or to take home. All proceeds will benefit 360 Youth Services programs to support youth experiencing homelessness throughout the west-ern suburbs. www.downtownnaperville.comSPRING 20215 Things to Do5. Treat Yourself & Your Besties to Evolet Eve Wine Shop WARRENVILLE–Evolet Eve is a retail wine bar for the family experience by day, quaint wine bar locale by night. Come connect with friends and family, while you sip and shop unique arti-san wines from around the world. This unique west suburban wine stop has craft beers & small bites, too! Stay connected to their social media pages for the official announcement of their patio’s Grand Re-Opening event coming soon! Located at 28w575 Stafford Place War-renville. www.evoletevewineshop.comGlancer Magazine • MAY 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 72. Give a Gift Basket Filled with Lots of Love DOWNTOWN NAPERVILLE– Put together a gift basket filled with all of Mom’s fa-vorites– chocolate from Le Chocolat Bouchard, wine from 64 Wine Bar, flowers from Andrew’s Garden–all in Downtown Naperville. www.downtownnaperville.com
COVER STORY Marvelous Mom of Many 8 WESTERN SUBURBS MAY 2021 Glancer Magazine
Kelly Lauffer NORTH AURORA GENEVA Kelly s overall well being begins with her involvement at Wheaton Bible Church in West Chicago and volunteering in her community concurrently her physical and mental health are balanced as a lead for the Fox River Trail Runners FRTR in Geneva Fall Endurance Training Program FET as well as the owner of two businesses that keep her active Kelly is a RRCA Certified Running Coach and Zyia Active Independent Rep and started her own coaching business 2 5 years ago called StretchRun Coaching www stretchruncoaching com because she wanted to be able to help other runners see their potential and push through the StretchRun of races in order to accomplish running goals they never thought possible She knows a lot about setting goals and achieving them and just completed her 49th marathon with a personal best time of 3 19 45 on April 3 2021 As a senior in college in 2001 Kelly ran her first marathon Her love of running exploded She has run marathons in 36 of the 50 states with a goal of covering the nation as well as running all six World Major Marathons and is two away from completing that goal My favorite distance in the marathon as I think it really shows runners how strong we are and what our bodies and minds are capable of accomplishing even if in the process I ve had a few soul crushing races Kelly says I find runners share a unique bond and it makes me happy All three of her kids have attended the Accelerators Running Clubs and have completed track and cross country meets with them Micah 11 Reid 9 and Gemma 7 all witness firsthand mom s effervescent words hard works pays off and practice makes perfect to always give their best in their own activities Micah a diehard sports fan also loves running as well as travel soccer and basketball Reid plays travel soccer baseball and loves shooting driveway hoops with friends and Gemma is active in dance gymnastics and softball Kelly grew up in a family with four kids and always wanted a big family of her own Like most working moms Kelly is constantly searching for the right balance between work exercise and ensuring quality time with her kids and spouse while making certain overall healthy and active lifestyle goals are kept at mind s eye Quality active time with her kids comes in the form of biking the North Aurora to Geneva trail loop hiking at Red Oak Nature Center sledding at Fabyan Windmill and eating at favorite places like Gia Mia in Geneva They also participated as a family in the Fox Valley Kids Marathon multiple years and love doing the 3 mile Batavia trail loop ending with ice cream at the Batavia Creamery Life is about healthy balance and being a running coach allows Kelly the opportunity to invest deeply in others herself and the opportunity to devote more time to her kids because of the freedoms that come from owning your own businesses It is said that one run can change your day many runs can change your life Story by Kristen Kucharski Photos by Mike Catuara Glancer Magazine MAY 2021 WESTERN SUBURBS 9
COVER STORY Marvelous Mom of Many 10 WESTERN WESTERNSUBURBS SUBURBS MAY APRIL2021 2021 Glancer GlancerMagazine Magazine 10
COVER STORY Terri Boumas NAPERVILLE When Terri was figuring out what to do with her life as a young mother and wife with very little in the bank she focused on Proverbs 31 and founded her life around that A wise woman takes her talents and provides for her family Applying the K I S S Keep It Simple Silly principal the answer kept popping into her head volleyball after all Terri led Penn State to two Big Ten Conference titles and a national runner up finish in 1997 She was the only player in Big Ten history to record more than 1 500 kills 1 000 digs and 600 blocks and go on to lead the USA National Team around the globe eventually becoming Team Captain for the Chicago Thunder USPV professional volleyball team Health and wellness were important not only to Terri but to her growing family so she took her expertise and put pedal to the metal and opened Mettle Volleyball Academy in Naperville in June 2012 She continues to train players at the beginner level up to the collegiate level while balancing work and home life with her husband six children and the best dog ever I don t know if I am ever perfectly in balance I first make sure I am taken care of so I can take care of everyone else eat right get enough sleep drink plenty of water Terri says I have to wake up before the kids or it s a disaster and I also have to get some kind of workout in the morning before we really get cranking on our day Terri also meal plans to reduce her stress of scrambling to make meals or having to manage hangry kids Since weekdays are so busy bedtime prayer time is her only guarantee for quiet quality time She typically does not run classes on the weekends so she can attend her own kid s sporting events who are extremely active Bryce 18 plays football rugby and is a wrestler Sophia 15 plays volleyball Alayna 12 is a Level 8 Gymnast at Premier West Gymnastics Academy Veronica 8 is homeschooled with her sister Alayna hones multiple talents Beaux 5 is the family s main form of entertainment with his active energy and their first born Jacob 20 is a United States Marine Corp in San Diego They are a competitive and active family by nature so when life gets overwhelming Terri remembers that God is in control When things are humming along I praise God for it she says What I love about Proverbs 31 is that it encompasses so many good things about a wise woman not just from a business perspective I have to lead a healthy lifestyle in order to take care of my family and be an example for them Its just what we do as moms There were times when the family was broke and barely scraping by but God always took care of them when least expected Every time we had another baby something amazing would happen bills would get paid promotions at work opportunities out of the blue would pop up We worked hard and sometimes wondered how we would make ends meet It was an exciting time Along with her family Terri thanks God by attending Saint Peter Paul Catholic Church in Naperville and supporting many local charitable organizations such as Waterleaf Women s Center in Aurora She is eternally grateful for all the wonderful people in the community that have supported her along the way The Lord is my strength and my shield my heart trusts in him and he helps me My heart leaps for joy Psalm 28 7 Story by Kristen Kucharski Photos by Mike Catuara Glancer Magazine MAY 2021 WESTERN SUBURBS 11
COVER STORY Marvelous Mom of Many 12 20212021 Glancer Magazine 14 WESTERN SUBURBS APRIL FEBRUARY Glancer Magazine 12 WESTERN WESTERN SUBURBS SUBURBS NOVEMBER MAY 2021 2020 Glancer Magazine 16 Glancer Magazine 14 WESTERN SUBURBS DECEMBER 2020 Glancer Magazine
Cara Knutson DOWNERS GROVE Cara s passion for healthy living started in middle school during an aerobics unit in P E She lost a few pounds and felt amazing and it ignited a drive to begin running after school which carried into high school and college About 8 years ago she began heavier weightlifting at Midwest Fit Club MFC which transformed her from skinny into a stronger athletic build Her routine now consists of walk and talk therapy with friends and attending classes at Orange Theory twice a week weightlifting at MFC once a week and yoga at Power Yoga on Main in Downers Grove As an elementary music teacher and the mother of three active kids Mia 20 Josh 17 and Max 14 who is currently seeking an Assistant Principal role Cara is a big believer in organization and time management I plan my family meals out for the week over the weekend she says I look at the weather what is on sale what food we have at home ev eryone s schedule and plan accordingly This really helps the week run smoothly for everyone Other tricks of the trade making double of everything as teenage boys will eat you out of house and home making a favorite dish of one child with a favorite side of another keeping items separate and letting kids add what they want Healthy dinner favorites include grilled veggie kabobs with chicken steak or shrimp added and staple go to healthy snacks consist of string cheese cashews Pure Protein bars apples with peanut butter and Greek Yogurt When the kids seem cranky she is known for her most famous saying Have you had any protein today Food aside as a family they enjoy walking the dog going to the driving range biking in Denburn Woods and enjoying eating out at Egg Harbor in Downers Grove Cara lives by the words of Jim Rohn Take care of your body It s the only place you have to live in Story by Kristen Kucharski Photos by Mike Catuara Glancer Magazine MAY 2021 WESTERN SUBURBS 13
COVER STORY Marvelous Mom of Many 14 WESTERN SUBURBS APRIL 2021 Glancer Magazine 14 WESTERN SUBURBS SUBURBS APRIL MAY 2021 Magazine 12 WESTERN 20212021 Glancer Glancer Magazine 14 FEBRUARY Glancer Magazine 16 WESTERN WESTERN SUBURBS SUBURBS DECEMBER NOVEMBER2020 2020 Glancer GlancerMagazine Magazine 14
Lara Heckelsberg Gawrych YORKVILLE Lara has been loving on the soil from Carbondale to California to Washington to New Zealand and finally back to her roots in Yorkville Growing up Lara always had a large garden and her parents strived to provide natural homegrown made from scratch meals whenever possible Since she met her husband while they were both working on an organic farm in Olympia Washington it had been their dream to own and live on their very own organic farm In 2010 they started Sol Gardens on acreage at a family friend s farm that had been previously planted in native species through a conservation easement so they were able to get their USDA Organic Certification right away Then in 2013 they purchased their own 20 acre homestead and have been able to expand from vegetables into animals fruit and their own small batch Sol Gardens CBD oil As with any business venture there were large start up costs so the balance is that Lara also works off the farm as a Realtor while her husband is full time on the land This year you can find them at the Batavia Farmers Market on Saturdays between 8am and Noon starting in June Lara wears many hats In addition to being a full time Realtor she is also chief consultant on all things Sol child wrangler schedule keeper tree hugger critter collector reality checker chicken transporter late night dancer and forever a dreamer Her three children also live a healthy lifestyle Growing up on 20 acres provides plenty of opportunity for Rowan 12 Oliver 10 and Zuri 8 to stay physically active beyond their individual loves of skiing soccer and making music The family also takes full advantage of exploring nearby state and local parks as well as the Fox River valley Although challenging with all the extracurricular activities full time jobs and working the farm Lara relishes in the opportunity of family dinners and enjoying the fruits of their labor They all agree that nothing compares to the flavors that come in vine ripened heritage breed tomatoes sliced raw with a dash of salt fresh basil leaf slice of fresh mozzarella then drizzled with good olive oil Once the tomatoes come into season they will have dinner after dinner of just plates of tomatoes maybe with a chunk of bread from the farmer s market As a healthy active farmer mom of many Amelia Earhart sums up Lara s basic philosophy on life well A single act of kindness throws out roots in all directions and the roots spring up and make new trees Story by Kristen Kucharski Photos by Mike Catuara Glancer Magazine MAY 2021 WESTERN SUBURBS 15
COVER STORY Marvelous Mom of Many 14 WESTERN SUBURBS APRIL 2021 Glancer Magazine 12 SUBURBS APRIL 20212021 Glancer Magazine 14 WESTERN FEBRUARY Glancer Magazine WESTERN SUBURBS MAY 2021 Glancer Magazine 1616 WESTERN WESTERN SUBURBS DECEMBER NOVEMBER 2020 Glancer Magazine 14 SUBURBS 2020 Glancer Magazine
Lisa Upham WEST CHICAGO WHEATON Lisa s desire to lead a more natural lifestyle began when she and her husband Mike made the decision to start their own family 18 years ago As I read everything I could about pregnancy birth and newborns I knew I wanted to have an unmedicated birth with a midwife at home Lisa shares I took Bradley Method childbirth classes hired a birth doula and guess what even after a 51hour labor I had the natural birth experience that I wanted with a healthy baby on my chest Soon afterwards Lisa got certified to teach those same classes and started instructing them so that others could have the knowledge that she did to guide them through the process Eventually she pursued birth doula training and midwifery education so she could support these families at another level The need for access to more natural products education and support prompted her to also open A Baby Naturally in Wheaton Lisa continues to teach childbirth classes train birth doulas through DONA International and work as an assistant midwife at Gentle Birth Care a local home birth midwifery practice A Baby Naturally has expanded through the years to also include high quality baby apparel must have essentials and unique gifts provided with knowledge and advice from experienced moms Always stiving to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle for her family Lisa understands that inserting self care on her calendar and prioritizing this time is as important as any other appointment of the day She loves attending group classes at Peak Fitness in Geneva Getting outside on the Illinois Prairie Path and kayaking on the local rivers is a great way to spend energetic time with her kids Kyle 17 and avid baseball player and future engineer Erin 15 currently excelling in softball and tennis and Ryan 11 a social and dynamic volleyball and baseball enthusiast She believes overall wellness is founded on the premise of high expectations to committed goals in all areas for herself and her children such as a balanced diet solid academic performance a great attitude and a strong work ethic inclusive of chores that promote responsibility and teach time management The family s involvement in Willow Creek Community Church helps reinforce this overall belief system as well as mom s favorite phrase of all time Before you speak ask yourself this Is it necessary and is it kind Regardless of how busy everyone gets with their on the go busy life of the business school and multiple sports Lisa says they always try to eat dinner together as much as they can even if it means grabbing takeout after three games When life presents the opportunity for down time Lisa enjoys active fun with her kids and husband at Hawthorne s Backyard in West Chicago where they play bags volleyball or wiffleball with lunch or dinner Fall in love with taking care of yourself Mind body and spirit Story by Kristen Kucharski Photos by Mike Catuara Glancer Magazine MAY 2021 WESTERN SUBURBS 17
18 • WESTERN SUBURBS • MARCH 2021 • Glancer Magazine24 • WESTERN SUBURBS • APRIL 2021 • Glancer MagazineDOWNTOWN NAPERVILLEDOWNTOWN NAPERVILLE Be In The Mix! NAPERVILLE–Whether you’re here to shop, dine, spa or stay, you’ll find the perfect mix of over 150 best-in-class stores and spas along-side Naperville’s most exciting eateries from fine dining, bistros to bites on the go. Discover your favorite shops, spas and restaurants in our pedestrian friendly, historic downtown with amenities in every direction. Visit online to view the directory for business listings and hours or use the convenient “click & go” online maps for helpful guides when planning your visit. It’s your time, spend it well. www.downtownnaperville.com Springtime!
Glancer Magazine • MAY 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 19DOWNTOWN NAPERVILLESpringtime!
Local World War II History Now on Display at Naper Settlement NAPERVILLE–Explore Naperville’s World War II history at Naper Settlement this spring. Answering the Call: Naperville at War 1941-1945 will engage visitors with a story that is almost entirely local and personal. Hear the stories of the Napervillians who served in all branches of the military, Japanese internment workers who came to work here, local "Rosie the Riveters" at Kroehler Manufacturing and more! For more information, please visit www.NaperSettlement.org/Exhibits. 26 • WESTERN SUBURBS • APRIL 2021 • Glancer MagazineNAPERVILLE HISTORY20 • WESTERN SUBURBS • MAY 2021 • Glancer Magazine
COMMUNITY LIVINGGlancer Magazine • MAY 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 21Naperville Woman’s Club 61st Fine Art & Artisan Fair SATURDAY AND SUNDAY, JUNE 26-27 • 10AM-5PM NAPERVILLE–After a year hiatus due to COVID-19, the Naperville Woman’s Club (NWC) is proud to host the Naperville Fine Art and Ar-tisan Fair (FAAF). The event will be held at Naper Settlement, 523 S. Webster Street, downtown Naperville. The FAAF – a NWC signa-ture tradition for over 60 years – is a community celebration of the vi-sual arts bringing over 100 talented artists, fine crafters, and gourmet food vendors together to browse and shop in a perfectly charming at-mosphere. Fair goers will also enjoy music, adult beverages, and special activities: a participatory community mural, an immersive walk-through scene drawn by famed 3D Chalk Artist Shaun Hays, a new Petite Picasso area for kids’ activities and a balloon artist. The Fair is free including admission to the Settlement. For more information, visit www.napervillewomansclub.org. To volunteer, contact Nancy at general@napervillewomansclub.org.
10 TRENDS 2021 10 TRENDS Trends In Gifting Mom the Experience This Mother s Day Give Mom the Gift of the Experience Help Her Create a Memory that will Last a Lifetime with these 10 Trends 1 Wine Time Downtown Glen Ellyn www kozewine com Mom will enjoy exploring incredible wines with Nicole Imparato of Vintus for a South American themed event that will include wines from Argentina and Chile at Ko ze on May 25 from 6pm 7 30pm This Taste Vacation will take mom to the major wine areas in both Chile and Argentina Both countries are captivating destinations for wine lovers with an astounding range of landscapes grape varietals and micro climates Explore 5 fabulous wines along with a grazing board for each table 2 Mimosas Downtown Naperville www tapvillesocial com naperville Celebrate Mom with Brunch on Friday through Sunday from 11am 3pm and enjoy a mimosa flight At Tapville they value spending precious time with friends and family and exist to make your experience more pleasurable and experiential 22 WESTERN SUBURBS MAY 2021 Glancer Magazine
#3 | Salt-Filled Relaxation Geneva www.salternativespa.com Participate in one of Salternative Holistic Spa & Community Wellness Center’s amazing experiences sure to create joy and peace within. Each of the events and classes will leave you feeling amazing with memories of joy and bliss. You can float into physical and mental bliss, breathe deeply in the salt room, release tension and toxins in the in-frared sauna or melt into one of their amazing massages. Enjoy any of the relaxing and even healing services or classes, or simply hang out in the Relaxation Room to meditate, color, or engage in quiet conver-sation. #4 | Feeling Beautiful Burr Ridge www.sophiaforero.com Newly open in Burr Ridge Village Center - the FEEL BEAUTIFUL Gal-lery is dedicated to YOU, darling Sophanista. A place to come and relax, learn a bit of history about adornment, talk stuff, and just BE. Sophia Forero Designs pledges to nurture you and bring out your already rec-ognized magnificence. They create jewels that make you feel beautiful. #5 | Red Effect Infrared Fitness Oakbrook Terrance www.redeffectfitness.com/infrared-therapy Join mom in an all women’s Red Effect workout class or infrared therapy session. These scientifically designed workouts provide you with effec-tive, H.I.I.T classes so you can burn calories up to 36 hours post-work-out. Detox 7x more, reduce joint pain, speed up recovery and more in their infrared therapy enhanced fitness studios. Infrared therapy helps with weight loss, detoxification, pain relief, relaxation, lowers blood pres-sure, stimulates cell health, and more! #6 | Intro to the Art of Sushi Chicago www.cocusocial.com Come with mom and learn how to spread, layer, tuck and roll your way to sushi heaven. In this fun, hands-on social cooking class, you’ll prac-tice all the skills needed to make rolls at home, including how to prepare and season sushi rice, select sushi-grade fish, and add additional tasty vegetables and other ingredients to enhance the deliciousness of your sushi. You’ll learn to make a traditional cucumber roll, salmon avocado roll, and a Veggie Hand Roll. Classes throughout the month of May. #7 | Make Your Own Wine Elmhurst www.tanninswine.com/events/ Don’t miss experiencing a St. Supéry virtual blending class on May 6. If you ever wanted to make your own wine, this is the event for you. Join the experts at this Napa Valley stapel that produces only certified sustainably grown Estate Wines, as they guide you through the blending process behind their highly acclaimed Élu Bordeaux red blend. With their guidance, and your intuition, you will be able to make the Élu blend all your own. #8 | Mommy & Me Photo Session Winfield www.heidiaubinphotography.com Join in the gift of forever memories with Mommy & Me sessions perfect for all generations to experience together. This is a perfect opportunity for you to get out from behind the camera and get into the pictures with your children and grandparents - just in time for Mother's Day! #9 | Garden-to-Table Afternoon Tea Downers Grove www.pineconecottageteahouse.com Now open for indoor dining four to a table. Enjoy fresh ingredients and a fresh taste with food grown in Chef Pam’s garden in a tru garden to table afternoon tea. Please make a reservation for indoor dining or place a pick up order for a unique Four Course Afternoon Tea, and Sweets and Savories. #10 | Treat Mom to Some Sugar Geneva www.heysugargeneva.com Treat mom and yourself to something sweet at Geneva’s newer hot spots for sugar. Enjoy hot cocoa, soft serve ice cream, cupcakes, Eng-lish Toffee, coffee and tea and so much more. Make mom’s day just a little sweeter with a homemade goodie from Hey Sugar! Glancer Magazine • MAY 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 23
DOWNTOWN NAPERVILLEWELCOME TO NAPERVILLE A Letter From Kerwell Premium CBD House NAPERVILLE–Welcome to Kerwell Premium CBD House. We are beyond ex-cited to be joining the Downtown Naperville Community, providing amazing CBD health and wellness products. While you patiently await our Naperville grand opening, you can visit our Downers Grove Location at 949 Burlington Ave, where we can educate you on how CBD can help improve your day-to-day health and beauty regimen. We even cater to your four-legged friends! We have done our homework so that you don't have to, curating only the very best CBD products on the market. CBD can help you relax more, discover inner and outer beauty, and stress less. Visit us online 24/7 at www.kerwellness.com and let us help get you on the road to a new and healthier lifestyle.WOMAN-OWNED
FAMILY FUNWOMAN-OWNEDGlancer Magazine • MAY 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 25NAPERVILLE WHIRLYBALL’S BACK! Make Your Reservation Today NAPERVILLE- From friendly competition and entertainment to exceptional food and drink, WhirlyBall Naperville provides the perfect venue for all ages and occasions. The two-story “eater-tainment” complex features a variety of activities including Whir-lyBall, LaserTag, HyperBowling and bowling plus private event spaces for groups of any size. Round out your event with cus-tomized menus featuring The Pivot Room’s selection of elevated American fare and craft beverages. Book your event today! Whirlyball Naperville 3103 Oddyssey, Naperville (630) 932-4800 www.whirlyball.com SO FUN!
THE GROWING PLACE As the grass greens, buds bloom and songbirds sing, we are met with anticipation and wonder-ment as a new season awaits us. The excite-ment for longer days, warmer temperatures and (yes, a vaccine!) have many of us Midwest-erners yearning for Spring. While we still aren’t shaking hands, we encourage you to get your hands dirty with a hobby that’s proven to reduce stress and boost your mood. It’s gardening! Did you know that pandemic gardens were referred to as ‘victory gar-dens’? This phrase was coined during WWI and WWII as the gov-ernment turned to its citizens to aid with the food supply. While we aren’t experiencing a food shortage, there has been a resurgence in gardening. The need for connectivity is palpable … and Mother Na-ture has been our reprieve. Whether you’re a new ‘pandemic gar-dener’, gardening pro or just looking to reduce your grocery bill, The Growing Place in Naperville and Aurora, provides high-quality plants to grow with confidence this season. The Growing Place, a botanical garden-style nurs-ery, established its roots in 1936 (originally named Emma’s Perennials until 1976). This third-genera-tion, family-owned-and-operated business is known for its variety (over 2,300 plant varieties!) and has been a cherished oasis for 85 years. Be sure to check out the Learning Gardens, as these strategic gardens demonstrate commonly encountered yard situations - plus, they change out seasonally! Its organic vegetables & herbs are grown on-site, native plants are sourced within an 80-mile radius and trees & shrubs are grown in northern nurseries. And the ever-popular Grab n’ Go containers are all made on-site, too. Happy planting! by Brianna Bartemeyer Photos SubmittedUNIQUEin Suburbia26 • WESTERN SUBURBS • MAY 2021 • Glancer MagazineUNIQUE IN SUBURBIA
UNIQUECOMMUNITY LIVINGDOWNTOWN DOWNERS GROVE Downers Contiunes to Prosper this Spring DOWNERS GROVE–A variety of small businesses, amazing owners and com-munity 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. HOT SPOTlocalGlancer Magazine • MAY 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 27
Bar Chido: New to the Downers Grove Restaurant Scene DOWNERS GROVE–It’s open and residents are loving it! Bar Chido is located at 1012 Curtiss Street in Downtown Downers Grove. If you have not yet been, this new hip spot for modern tacos, & other innovative Mexican fare –plus specialty cocktails– even has a taco takeout window. Tacos, tequila and amigos; Bar Chido stands alone and embraces its new position as the coolest spot in the Western Suburbs. Bring-ing his own twist of modern Mexican street food inspired by Cabo and Tulum to Downers Grove, owner Sam Vlahos is transforming the way we eat tacos, drink tequila, and most importantly , have fun— authentically. Visit today! www.barchido.com DINING DELIGHTSWEST SUBURBAN DININGDININGDINING + COCKTAILS28 • WESTERN SUBURBS • MAY 2021 • Glancer Magazine
18 • WESTERN SUBURBS • JULY 2020 • Glancer MagazineDINING + COCKTAILSCCoocckkttaaiillssPartly Cloudy Saki Flight Head Downtown Naperville for this Delightful Treat NAPERVILLE–Blue Sushi Sake Grill offers a creative sushi experience for purists and adventurers alike. Guests enjoy an energetic dining ex-perience, unique in atmosphere with the food and drink to match. A large maki, sashimi and nigiri menu is complemented by Asian-inspired starters, entrees, soups, salads, desserts, and an extensive drink menu that includes premium cold sake. Blue offers happy hour food and drink specials every day, including weekends. www.Patio Now Open! Head to Nobel House Glen Ellyn for Fun GLEN ELLYN–They’ve taken the inspiration from the legendary Alfred Nobel to create a dining and entertainment experience unlike any other. Why Nobel, you might ask? In a word – excellence. Whereas Alfred created the Nobel Prize to award excellence across a variety of dis-ciplines, their focus is to deliver excellence through incredible food, im-peccable service and inventive atmosphere. www.nobelhouserestaurants.com A Cinco de Mayo! Celebration Hale Street Cantina Invites You In This Month WHEATON–The Buzz is out! Hale Street Cantina is ready to celebrate its first Cinco de Mayo. Starting May 3, specials will be running all week long – including fun giveways*: May 3- May 9th: •$5 Modelo •$5 Milagro Reposado •$12 Chilango Tacos Call your friends and plan a date! *Giveaways only while supplies last* Hale Street Cantina is a Mexican-American Fusion Restaurant located in the heart of downtown Wheaton. www.halestreetcantina.com . DININGGlancer Magazine • MAY 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 29
30 • WESTERN SUBURBS • MAY 2021 • Glancer MagazineFOOD & KITCHENin the
Bringing Dinner Back to the Kitchen Table Diane and Richard Beaulieu absolutely loved the convenience of Entrée Kitchen for nightly dinners in a world of work, sports, and everyday busy-ness. They were regular clients when they took over ownership in 2009. Richard maintained his job as a Forensic Accountant, but also now holds the titles of CFO, Delivery Man, IT and Maintenance Guru for Entrée Kitchen; while Diane loves having complete autonomy to do whatever is necessary to take care of their kitchen team and customers on a day-to-day basis while balancing their family life of raising their three teenage sons who are active in swim, the Civil Air Patrol, band, and orchestra. The family works together to support local school PTAs by offering fund-raising programs. Although it may appear, Entrée Kitchen is like other “meal prep” companies, there are many factors that set them apart, such as the bonus of being able to get right to cooking without the need of a knife and a cutting board to do all the prep first. This allows most of their meals to be freshly cooked in about 30 minutes versus 20 minutes of prep work first, before the cooking process even begins. Made-to-order entrees can be customized to include organic meat upgrades on many of our entrees, as well as other substitutions or eliminations to meet specific dietary restrictions; and unlike most companies, Entrée Kitchen al-lows the option of drop in and same day ordering from their well-stocked freezers with over 40+ different entrees, as well as a full complement of sides, desserts, bread, and appetizers too. An additional option is “Our weekly fresh menu, called Delicious Dinners in a Dash.” Diane says. “These entrees are available Monday afternoon through Friday and cook in 30 minutes or less. Plus, we will also have four Mother's Day Specials, a special grilling menu for Father’s Day, and offer a monthly Budding Chef's Program specifically geared toward getting the kiddos get to help out in kitchen.” With over 900 entrees in their database, finding a family favorite will be diffi-cult, but bringing dinner back to the kitchen table has never been easier! Entree Kitchen 26W276 Geneva Road, Carol Stream, IL 60188 (630) 668-4450 • www.entreekitchen.comKITCHENiinn tthheeFOOD & KITCHENGlancer Magazine • MAY 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 31
BOATS, JET SKI’S, TUBES, AND MORE It’s that time of year when living on the water feels like a second home. If I am being honest, each year, I am just a little bit envious of seeing the social media posts of all those people with lake houses and boats. I want one too! There aren’t too many places close to the west-ern suburbs where you can just rent a boat or jet ski for the day and enjoy the fun too; so, I was so excited to find Heritage Harbor in Ottawa. Just 52 minutes from my south Naperville home, this was the perfect escape for a day on the water with friends; and yes, we rented the tube too even sans kids! An adult ad-venture on the boat with silly antics on the tube! The marina staff are extremely knowledgeable about the Illinois River and share their expertise and tips. When you rent a watercraft, there is a quick online tutorial you must complete prior to driving the boat, then you are on your way along 16+ miles of beautiful water-ways. Relax, take in the sights of Starved Rock Country, and have fun! You can rent the boat for a couple hours, a half day or full day…..take the jet-ski for an hour or two or even the day! Bring your towels, swimsuits, sunscreen, and coolers of refreshments and spend the day on the water. The pontoons are large and can seat up to 10 of your closest friends or family! We went out late afternoon for a couple hours and it felt like we were a million miles from home. We laughed, we tubed, and we saw the sought-after hang-out spots that some might liken to Chicago’s playpen, but most importantly - we had a blast! Heritage Harbor is gorgeous, well-manicured, and picturesque and you just might find me living on the water from now on between April and October appreciating their awesome ex-tended season!!! OVERVIEW Whether you desire the rush of adrenaline from riding jet-skis or prefer a slower–paced pontoon cruise, the Marina at Heritage Harbor offers a variety of watercraft rentals to get you out on the water. Heritage Harbor 111 Harbor View Drive Ottawa, IL 61350 (815) 433-5000 www.visitheritageharbor.com Hours: Open Seasonally April through October Price $: Price Varies Depending on Rental ABOUT THE WRITER Naperville mom Kristen Kucharski graduated from Illinois State Uni-versity 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 lile black bookMOM’S LITTLE BLACK BOOK32 • WESTERN SUBURBS • MAY 2021 • Glancer Magazine
COMMUNITY LIVING St Charles H O M E D E C O R Trend Relic Expands with Grand Re Opening tST CHARLES rend relic is an experience that shoppers remember as this unique multi vendor marketplace has carefully selected experienced merchants who are artisans builders refinishers and painters each offering the most special items to adorn your homes The talented merchants work hard to create and curate unique items both vintage and new Many of the treasures that you will find at trend relic have been handcrafted including jewelry candles furniture art Each of the wonderfully talented merchants have created beautiful spaces in the shop as well as local markets so you will find some of your very favorites here Owned by Karri and Heather together they bring years of retail decorating design staging and painting experience to the shop Their vision was to bring a unique shopping experience to Saint Charles like no other creating a space that felt inspired comfortable friendly and passionate At trend relic we are confident that you will experience all that and more You will also find monthly paint classes which include How To and make and take workshops Call the shop or visit to learn about upcoming classes including girls night out boutique events trend relic 1501 Indiana Avenue St Charles Illinois 630 803 5253 www trendandrelic com Glancer Magazine MAY 2021 WESTERN SUBURBS 33
34• WESTERN SUBURBS • MAY 2021 • Glancer MagazineTrendY 6 EXCITING DESTINATIONS TO MAKE YOUR SUMMER EXTRA MEMORABLE FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY Nearly everyone needs something to look forward to again, and few things can bring more joy than planning the perfect getaway. Many travelers have different ideas in mind when it comes to planning or dreaming about a summer vacation. Some are enchanted by spending time at a beach, others prefer to take in a rich arts or history scene and there are also those who prefer to stay closer to home. According to polling conducted by Michelle Gielan, founder of the Institute for Applied Positive Research and an expert in the science of happiness, 97% of respondents said having a trip planned makes them happier and 96% agreed getting to travel and feeling safe while doing it would bring peace of mind. Planning a Joyful Summer EscapeTravelerTRENDY TRAVELER
While there are seemingly countless resources available for as-sisting with travel plans, booking directly can provide valuable benefits. For example, when the time is right for you to start plan-ning, booking on Marriott.com offers travelers flexibility with more than 7,600 properties, and Marriott Bonvoy members have ac-cess to special member rates and best-rate guarantees, free Wi-Fi, mobile check-in and checkout, the ability to chat with hotel staff and mobile keys at many hotels. Members also earn points which can be redeemed for free nights. Consider these domestic destinations when you’re ready to start planning for summer travel: Nashville, Tennessee An option like the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center is perfect for your summer adventure. Situated in the heart of Nashville, you can enjoy award-winning barbecue and line dance lessons at the Wildhorse Saloon or set sail for a lunch and dinner cruise aboard the General Jackson Showboat then return to a lineup of amenities that includes a 4-acre upscale waterpark, in-door gardens and waterfalls, a full-service spa, more than 750,000 square feet of meeting space and restaurants ranging from steak and Mexican to Italian and Japanese, plus frozen yo-gurt and gelato for dessert. Orlando, Florida Located adjacent to the Disney World Resort theme parks and Disney Springs in Orlando, the JW Marriott Orlando Bonnet Creek Resort & Spa brings modern luxury to Central Florida. The hotel offers inviting social spaces and amenities with two spar-kling pools, including one with a splash pad, specialty restaurants and a rooftop terrace with nightly views of the Disney fireworks display. Washington, D.C. From downtown shopping at City Center, dining and nightlife to nearby attractions such as Mt. Vernon Square and the National Mall, an option like the Marriott Marquis Washington, D.C., is a perfect place to relax and recharge after exploring the nation’s capital. Spanning nearly a city block, it features vibrant rooms and suites with modern features and amenities, including club-level rooms, restaurants and bars, and a bi-level fitness center. Seattle, Washington With a vibrant live music scene, state-of-the-art fitness center and award-winning seasonal fare on-site, a luxury getaway like W Se-attle can be your hub for exploring attractions just moments from the hotel, such as Pike Place Market, the Seattle Art Museum and plenty of outdoor parks and recreation. San Francisco, California Surrounded by museums and tech titans, The Clancy, Autograph Collection is a destination for new discoveries near Union Square, where San Francisco’s beautiful views meet adventurous intellect. With easy access to attractions and culinary delights, the hotel is a welcoming beacon to visitors. Maui, Hawaii Discover timeless island luxury at The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua. Overlooking the Pacific Ocean, this five-star resort complements Maui’s natural splendor with modern amenities such as contem-porary rooms and suites, two championship golf courses, six dis-tinctive restaurants and spa treatments steeped in Hawaiian culture, as well as access to nearby beaches and amenities within the 22,000-acre Kapalua Resort. Explore these travel destinations and more, and find exclusive member-only rates, at Marriott.com.Glancer Magazine • MAY 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 35
MILLION DOLLAR lliissttiinnggA Downtown Naperville Beauty Downtown Naperville living at its finest. From this amazing property you can walk to the train, Downtown Naperville, the Riverwalk, parks and schools. High-end finishes and details throughout. Large first floor office with built in cabinets, woods floor and coffered ceiling. Large dining room that leads to a gourmet kitchen with all of the high-end amenities. double oven, gas cooktop, refrigerator, dishwasher & trash compactor with cab-inet facades, granite counters, prep island, counter seating at peninsula. Kitchen has a large walk-in pantry along with a separate eating area offering lots of light and great views of the yard. $1,049,000 4 bed, 3.5 bath, 4,168 sq. ft., 8,965 sq. ft. lot 729 W Benton Ave, Naperville, IL(630) 369-9000 Presented by: Walt Burrell Brokered by: Coldwell Banker Realty - Naperville36 • WESTERN SUBURBS •MAY 2021 • Glancer Magazine
Ideally Located It is all about location with this 4-bedroom 4-bath 4,200 square ft. home. Rear yard with extensive paver patio with sitting wall and fire pit. Walk to all 3 of the schools. Enjoy your summer at Centen-nial Beach. Welcome home.REAL ESTATEGlancer Magazine • MAY 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 37
HHOOMMEE DDEESSIIGGNNHOMEWERKS View Remodeling Gallery Online 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 special-izes in full service remodeling. The kitchen and bath displays are interactive, 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 HOME DESIGN + DECOR38 • WESTERN SUBURBS • MAY 2021 • Glancer Magazine
HOME DESIGNHOME DESIGN + DECORNONA JO’S In Home Consultation NAPERVILLE–Have you every wished you had a friend in interior design? Well, you do! Invite Nona Jo’s in to see your space. Why is it so easy to help a friend design her space, but when it comes to your own house you freeze up? Don’t worry; Non Jo’s design team understands! Their team will work with you to make the right choices that fit your style. Whether you are building, remodeling, or refreshing your house, they’ll be by your side for every decision. From flooring, paint colors, kitchen and bath remodels to custom furniture, window treatments, artwork, lighting, and accessorizing, we will transform your house into a home. The Nona Jo’s Design Team gets excited about transforming any space. No project is too small or too large. Their consultation process is friendly and relaxed. The first step is to set up a Walk and Talk. Two designers will visit your home, get a feel for your spaces, take measurements, and listen to your vision for the project and understand your needs. Next is a followup e-mail reviewing the visit and prioritizing the project. Then together you can decide the plan. Learn more today at www.nonajos.comBeautiful SyleGlancer Magazine • MAY 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 39
by Mindy Kyle Photos SubmittedCRYSTAL L.G. HILLIARD of AURORA Grandma Janie and Me: In the Garden Growing up in Aurora, author Crystal Hilliard was raised by a single mother and spent a great amount of time with her grandmother who watched her. The many memories they shared will be etched in her brain forever and inspired her to begin writing her first book in her Grandma Janie and Me series, Grandma Janie and Me: In the Garden. “I want young children and older adults to know the impor-tance of their role in a child’s life,” says Crystal. “Children need to know about their past, and grandparents need to un-derstand the present and changing times.” As a licensed social worker with a specialization in gerontol-ogy (the study of the aging process), Crystal has a passion for the older adult population. Grandma Janie and Me: In the Garden is about a loving relationship between a grandparent and a grandchild and the memories they share. Keep an eye out for Crystal’s future books telling the stories of the different adventures Grandma Janie and her granddaughter will ex-perience together. Grandma Janie and Me: In the Garden can currently be found on Amazon. KNOW A LOCAL AUTHOR? We’d Love to Meet Them! Introduce Us at editorial@glancermagazine.comLITERAARRYYlocal40 • WESTERN SUBURBS • MAY 2021 • 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 2021. Susan Colella, Baird & Warner, (630) 946-3813Susan ColellaREAL ESTATEGlancer Magazine • MAY 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 41
To Give, To InspireCARING + SHARINGA Monthly Caring + Sharing Column42 • WESTERN SUBURBS • MAY 2021 • Glancer Magazine
G.L.O.W. 5K NAPERVILLE–May marks some pretty sig-nificant events for our schools – finals, last days and graduations. Here in Naperville, May is also typically the time of year our schools reach out and promote the night G.L.O.W 5K benefiting the Jeanine Nicarico Memorial Fund for Literacy. This fund supports grants to individual educators, or entire schools in Naperville to promote a deeper understanding and teaching of literacy, enrich instructional programs, provide opportunities to link literacy between the home and the school and to lay foundations that will develop life-long readers. This year, due to the pan-demic, the race has been moved to September 25th to allow for a fun and safe experience. The fund memorializes Jeanine Nicarico whose bright future was tragically cut short at the age of 10 in 1983 when she was abducted from her Naperville family home and murdered. The loss was felt not only by her family and friends, but also the Naperville com-munity. “The Naperville community supported our family, not just after her death but for many decades following that involved endless trials and media atten-tion,” says Kathy Nicarico-Brown, Jeanine’s sister and Co-Director of Grants and the G.L.O.W. 5K, along with Jeanine’s other sister, Chris Nicarico-Roy. “The fund is our way of saying thank you to the Naperville community and to celebrate Jeanine’s life instead of dwelling on the tragedy.” It was established under the Naperville Education Foundation in 1996 by friends and colleagues of Chris’s from River Woods Elementary School and other staff members of Naperville Com-munity School District 203. The G.L.O.W 5K is their biggest fundraiser of the year. The 5K was orig-inated by a teacher and parent from Hill Middle School of District 204 that had been awarded a grant and wanted to say thank you. It started out as a small neighborhood run of 200 people and over time evolved into a night run with over 1000 participants, a live band, refreshments and sponsors. The 5K has been going on for 20 years, but only in the last 10 has become an actual G.L.O.W night run. “Everything is run by volunteers,” says Kathy. “100% of our pro-ceeds goes back into the grants we award in our com-munity.” For more information on applying for a literacy grant, joining this year’s G.L.O.W. run, volunteering or do-nating to the Jeanine Nicarico Memorial Fund for Lit-eracy, visit their website at www.naperglow5k.com . 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-inspireJeanine Nicarico Memorial Fund for Literacy Naperville CARING + SHARINGGlancer Magazine • MAY 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 43
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’’BBiieenn44 • WESTERN SUBURBS • MAY 2021 • Glancer Magazine
THE MASSINGILL FAMILY WHEATON–While the pandemic has been hard, from the Massingill family perspective it was also a great opportunity to spend more family as Amelie (13) is typically busy with softball and Sofia (17) in bad-minton, in addition to many other school activities and social time. The family has always looked forward to dinners together as the best part of their day to catch up in good conversation without the interference of electronics; and continues this tradition even with their new business launch in January 2021- a line of allergy friendly snack bars called Lovely Day Bars. “We started it because my wife Ana, and my one daughter’s have food intolerances and we could not find a snack bar that fit our needs and actually tasted like a snack bar; so, we started Lovely Day Bars which is allergy friendly - free from nuts, diary, soy, wheat, gluten, eggs, fish, peanuts, corn - and is vegan, non-GMO, but tastes like a delicious snack bar should!” Brandon says. “We have two flavors Chocolate Chip and Sweet Caramel with Chocolate Drizzle.” Putting their words into action, they sell their bars throughout the area including several family-owned businesses in the western suburbs, as well as independent grocery stores, such as Caputos in Naperville, Tom’s Market in Warrenville, Nutrition Network in Winfield, Pete’s Fresh Market in Wheaton, Berkley’s Finer Foods and Bocadito’s Cafe in Batavia, Sweet Natalie’s Gluten Free Bakery in Wheaton, and Kramer’s Foods in Hinsdale. Of course, their bars can also be purchased via their web-site at www.lovelydaybar.com, on Amazon, as well as at over 50 loca-tions in the Chicagoland area. “Honestly, we try to live by the motto of it’s all about the community and support local businesses as much as possible!” Brandon says. “All our business needs are fulfilled by local businesses, we have gotten great support and partnerships from other local brands such as Sweet Natalies, Extract Juicery and H4 Fitness. We have a pretty good size garden and are always giving away extra pro-duce either to neighbors or to the PRC and support local organizations via our giving plan such as PRC, DuPage PADS, Northern Illinois Food Bank, Deborah’s Place, our church Holy Cross Lutheran Church and the Morton Arbore-tum.” The family refreshes their “ELE - Everybody Love Everybody” spirit as active members of Holy Cross Lu-theran Church, volunteering with Feed My Starving Chil-dren and Northern Illinois Food Bank. Additionally, Brandon is involved with DuPage PADS, mentors for the INCubator entrepreneur-ship program, teaches marketing as an adjunct at College of DuPage, and is a volunteer consultant with Compass Pro Bono. Besides reconnecting over family dinners, the Massingills are sure to carve out family time on the weekends for bike rides and runs on the Prairie Path in Naperville, perusing area farmer’s market, fishing and ex-ploring local forest preserves, and sometimes just having coffee together. Overall, The Massingills personal beliefs in family, community, and love have carried over into a business mission that allows everyone to enjoy flavorful snacks safely. -Kristen Kucharski, Photos by Mike CatuaraFABULOUS familyGlancer Magazine • MAY 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 45
www.h-4training.com Locations In Wheaton & GenevaH4 TRAINING 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. H4 Training. Wheaton & Geneva locations. www.h4-training.com/services/personal-training/FFIITTNNEESSSSHEALTH + WELLNESS46 • WESTERN SUBURBS • MAY 2021 • Glancer Magazine
FITNESSHEALTH + WELLNESSDR. ALEESHA FISCHER All About Poor Posture NAPERVILLE–Poor posture isn’t always a bad habit. Other reasons could be: 1. A dysfunctional joint: “A joint must have normal mobility in order for its corresponding muscles to work efficiently; evidence has shown that muscle strength and function become altered due to motion restrictions.” (Liebler, JMPT, 2001). 2. Inflexible muscles that decrease range of motion. For example, tight chest muscles that are pulling the shoulders forward and down. Another example is tight hip flexors which will compress your lumbar vertebrae and affect glute strength. 3. Weak core musculature makes it difficult to sit or stand properly for long periods. Core muscles include muscles on the front and the back of the spine. There is evidence that joint manipulation can help improve local muscle strength and/or activation. Chiropractic can help by getting all your joints checked for proper motion, muscles checked for strength and flexibility, as well as proper exercises prescribed in the correct order so you don’t get hurt in the process! Naperville Chiropractice & Massage is located at 47 E. Chicago Avenue, Suite 332-B in Downtown Naperville. PPOOSSTTUURREEGlancer Magazine • MAY 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 47
Kid StuffCelebrate Spring at Peck Farm GENEVA– Peck Farm Park is a unique park found in an urban environment that offers residents and visitors a place to slow down and enjoy quality time surrounded by nature. All cur-rent guidelines are being followed to provide a safe experience, including so-cial distancing and wearing masks. Kids will love the Butterfly House and Hawks Hollow Playground. Mom will love mak-ing new memories! www.genevaparks.org/ facilities/peck-farm-park/Camp 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 Paddleboat Quarry Fun! NAPERVILLE–Enjoy some paddleboat, paddleboard or kayak fun on the water at the Paddleboat Quarry located along the Naperville Riverwalk, just west of Eagle Street. The Quarry is open from mid-spring through fall, weather-permitting. For fees and hours of operation, visit online today! www.napervilleparks.org/paddleboatquarry/+48 • WESTERN SUBURBS • MAY 2021 • Glancer Magazine
KID STUFF 2021OSWEGOLAND SUMMER ADVENTURE STARTS HERE OSWEGO–Join the Oswegoland Park District’s Summer Camp Connection program for children 3 years old through entering 6th Grade. Kids will discover, learn, play, and explore through engaging and enriching experiences and activities including: Nature Hikes, Local Trips, Gar-dening, Sports, Outdoor Play, Music, Arts & Crafts. This all-day recreational camp is located in four convenient Oswegoland locations and is available Monday through Friday from 6:30am – 6:15pm. Scheduling is flexible, you choose the days of attendance! Breakfast, lunch, snacks, and all activities are included for just $58 per day. www.PlayOswegoland.org OOSSWWEEGGOO KKIIDDSSGlancer Magazine • MAY 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 49
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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 + WELLNESS56 • WESTERN SUBURBS • APRIL 2021 • Glancer Magazine
EDUCATION 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) 469-6270Glancer Magazine • MAY 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 55
HEALTH + WELLNESS58 • WESTERN SUBURBS • APRIL 2021 • Glancer Magazine
GET TO KNOW IN HOME FITNESS BY VAL AND HER TALENTED TEAM WESTERN SUBURBS–Transform your life today! In Home Fitness By Val & Team brings the workout to your home! Busy schedule? Not ready for a public gym? In Home Fitness by Val & Team provide private personalized work-outs with real results! Whether you have a home gym or not, they provide everything you need. In Home Fitness by Val, brings professionalism and fitness expertise to you. Enjoy the convienience of an in-home workout appointment. Val and her team can't wait to help you on your fitness journey! First session is FREE. In Home Fitness by Val www.inhomefitnessbyval.com inhomefitnessbyval@gmail.com SpotlightPhoto by Ashley SummersF I T N E S SGlancer Magazine • MAY 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 57
SHOPPING + STYLEVELVET GRACE All Things Beautiful for Spring OSWEGO–Nestled in charming log cabins right outside of down-town Oswego, Velvet Grace is worth the trip with TWO boutiques to enjoy! In our Style Studio, emerge yourself with an unexpected combination of women’s apparel, jewelry, accessories, bath & body, and candles. Our second boutique is filled with home decor, wall art, frames, and uncommon trinkets. Our design spe-cialists are here to help with décor ideas, accessorize an outfit, or choose the perfect gift that speaks to your heart and soul. Also, Velvet Grace is a proud retailer of the #1, easy-to-use, Chalk Paint®, by Annie Sloan and we can guide you with your first project. 4025 US 34 Oswego • (630) 636.6570 SHOP NOW velvetgrace.shop BBOOUUTTIIQQUUEE60 • WESTERN SUBURBS • APRIL 2021 • Glancer Magazine
SHOPPING + STYLEON TREND ESSENTIALS Visit Us Online or at Our Local Pop-Up NORTH AURORA–Urban Echo Shop features on trend essentials for the stylish at heart– from clothing and accessories, to home decor, furniture, gifts and seasonal trends. Owned by a mom and her daughter in Sugar Grove, Illinois, Urban Echo Shop was created to be an adored virtual hometown boutique where only the latest styles and trends are featured. Residents are invited sit back and relax while browsing the shop’s simplified trend collections. Each day is a new day at Urban Echo Shop. VISIT THEIR POP-UP SHOP FOR SOME FUN ITEMS 1790 Town Centre Dr., North Aurora • Vendor #3 • At the EntranceEESSSSEENNTTIIAALLSSGlancer Magazine • MAY 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 59
62 • WESTERN SUBURBS • MAY 2021 • Glancer MagazineSHOPPING + STYLE50% OFF SELECT GOWNS Destination Dress Boutique Since 2009 BATAVIA–Special Occasions has been charming area residents throughout Chicago-land since 2009 as a premiere destination location for beautiful gowns, dresses and evening wear. Guests travel from near and far to experience the selection of their dream dress in person, not just online. Upon entry into this beautiful downtown Batavia shop, you are welcomed by an array of unique dresses that you can touch and feel, offering you endless possibilities as you search for your dream dress, along with a knowledgeable stylist who is there to guide you. Here, you will find each season’s most sought after styles and must-have dresses. Founded by Mary Marconi-Popiel in 2009, the shop’s attention to detail makes the ordinary more extraordinary, giving you a shopping experience that you will not forget. Special Occasions does not simply sell dresses– this local dress boutique sell dreams! Visit today for your next Special Occasion. SPECIAL! Enjoy 30% Off Select Gowns 2 N Batavia Ave., Batavia, Illinois, (630) 406-1515 www.specialoccasionsontheavenue.com PPRROOMM TTIIMMEE
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SHOPPING + STYLEHOT SPRING STYLES Jeans and a Cute Top Shop Invites You In WHEATON & ST. CHARLES–Jeans and a Cute Top Shop is a women's contem-porary apparel boutique in downtown Wheaton and St. Charles. The Wheaton store also features a curated pre-loved collection of boutique brands that have been "bought back" from their customers and resell for $10-$40. If you have gently worn items, just a few years old, from respected boutiques or clothing stores, bring to the Wheaton store. If accepted, we pay $5 Cute Cash for each item. Cute Cash can be redeemed in any Jeans and a Cute Top Shop. How fun is that? Visit the shop in Wheaton or St. Charles or shop online today. Spring 2021 is here. Be sure you are fashion ready. www.jeansandacutetopshop.com Shop FOR MOM64 • WESTERN SUBURBS • APRIL 2021 • Glancer Magazine
Shop FOR MOMGlancer Magazine • MAY 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 63
3. Sweet Pickins Market NAPERVILLE–Mark your calendars and save the date for a Spring Market on Sun-day, May 23, in Naperville! Stop by the Sweet Pickins Market and enjoy shop-ping through each amazing booth on the lovely grounds of Naper Settlement. See facebook for details.1. Dog Mom’s Day Brunch ST. CHARLES–Enjoy a pawsitively perfect morn-ing with your pup and the moms you love at the River Bend Community Dog Park on Saturday, May 8th from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m. Activities include doggie crafts, pho-tos with your fur-baby and free time to mingle with other mutts & moms. Lite refreshments served. Chance to win door prizes too. www.stcparks.org /dog-mom-day/ 2. Color Me Alive - a Diversity Celebration NAPERVILLE–Cheer for diversity through a Teen-Led, Teen-Driven celebration of color! Participate in a range of activ-ities from tie dye to throwing colors to indulging in tasty foods from different cultures and so much more! This event is for the whole family and will be socially dis-tanced on May 23 from 1-5pm at the Grand Pavilion Riverwalk in downtown Naperville. www.alivecenter.org 66 • WESTERN SUBURBS • APRIL 2021 • Glancer MagazineMay is the month to celebrate those we love– mothers, grandmothers, aunts, sisters and daughters–generations that warm our heart and spirit. Spending time with each other is the best way to make simple happy memories. This month, we have put together a list of 7 Spectacular Places to Celebrate Generations of Love. We hope you enjoy your time together and have fun celebrating togetherness as these west suburban hot spots. Happy Mother’s Day!3.2.PLACES TO CELEBRATE GENERATIONS OF LOVE1.
4. Down & Derby Kentucky Derby Themed Brunch YOKRVILLE–Grab your mom or a mother figure in your life for this amazing sit down table service Mother's Day Brunch complete with mimosas and wearing your favorite Kentucky Derby Themed attire on May 8 from 10am-1pm at Martini Banquet Hall. CamMi Photo Booth will be on site to capture the amazing memories of this event. www.eventbrite.com/e/down-derby- kentucky-derby-themed-mothers-day-br-tickets-145951275193 5. Bloomin’ on Main LISLE–Come experience all of the awesome busi-nesses along Main Street! Grab mom and enjoy treats, giveaways, and specials throughout the day at partici-pating businesses on May 15 from 10am-7pm in downtown Lisle. www.facebook.com/events /lisle-illinois/bloomin-on-main/465117988250393/ 7. Mother’s Day Cruise CHICAGO–With Chicago Cruise Events, everyone gets the chance to celebrate Mother’s Day on a luxury yacht available on May 9th. Sailing across Lake Michigan, passengers enjoy 360-degree views of the Chicago skyline, relax on the obser-vation deck or listen to popular hits while bartenders spin a plethora of colorful drinks. www.chicagocruiseevents.com/events/ 4.5.6. Bridal & Wedding Extravaganza GLEN ELLYN–Planning a wedding is a family affair so don’t miss Chicago’s Let’s Plan Bridal & Wedding Extravaganza on Sunday, May 16th from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Abbington Distinc-tive Banquets. Gift bags, full plates lunches, complimentary champagne, cake sampling, fashion show, and industry experts galore. www.eventbrite.com/e/chicago-lets-plan-bridal-wedding- extravaganza-tickets-147473355777?aff=ebdssbdestsearch 6.7.Glancer Magazine • MAY 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 657 SPECTACULAR