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Glancer Magazine, November 2024

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JINGLE ALL THE WAY....! Welcome to the November issue of Glancer® where we celebrate the holiday season throughout the western sub-urbs. Discover 7 Spectacular Local Gifts to Love, from unique experiences to the gift of delectible coffee. Explore 10 Trends in Getting Ready for the Season with the help of local establishments who will make your season bright. In our Women Inspired feature, meet Gina Picchi, a local mom and business owner who has woven her love for cof-fee and dogs into a local business that captures the spirit of giving back. In Unique in Suburbia we highlight The Lit-erary Garden, a special place for gifts and more, especially for the book lovers on your list. This issue is filled with touching stories, unique holiday shopping ideas and so much more. We hope you love it! Thanks for reading. Lindy Kleivo Founding Publisher Area Director, Western Suburbs NOVEMBER 2024TABLE OF CONTENTSPUBLISHER Glancer Magazine, Inc. Lindy Kleivo, Founder AREA DIRECTOR Lindy Kleivo Sales & Marketing / Chicago West EDITORIAL Kristen Kucharski Associate Editor / Writer Mindy Kyle Writer Features Writer PHOTOGRAPHY Mike Catuara Event Photographer Ruta Drulia Event + Feature Photographer C O N T A C T  U S EDITORIAL Press Releases, Community News & Events editorial@glancermagazine.com ADVERTISING Digital Advertising +  Local Marketing Solutions advertising@glancermagazine.com SUBSCRIPTIONS Monthly Download + Daily Digital www.glancermagazine.comGlancer Magazine CHICAGO WEST November 2024 Vol 18, Issue 226 • Chicago West Glancer® Magazine is produced by Glancer® Magazine, Inc., a privately owned and operated corporation located in Sugar Grove, Illinois You’ve Been Glanced® and the Glancer® logo are registered trade-marks of Glancer Magazine, Inc. Magazine reproduction in whole or in part is strictly prohibited. All Rights Reserved Copyright 2024-Glancer® Magazine NNOOVVEEMMBBEERR 22002244®5 Hello From Glancer Magazine 7 5 Things to Do 8 10 Trends: Getting Ready for the Season 10 On Stage: Frozen, Annie, Little Mermaid & More 12 Cookie Delights: Recipes to Love 15 Naper Lights on Water Street 16 Women Inspired: Girl and Her Dog Coffee 20 Dining+Cocktails: Silver Fox Bar & Grill 24 Mom’s Little Black Book: Giving Back 26 Real Estate Spotlight: Meet Ewelina Rafael 27 Shop Gallery: Local Boutiques to Love 34 Literary Local: Riley Preston 35 Holiday Finds: Gifts Galore & More 46 Trendy Traveler: Win a Trip to Dollywood! 49 Home Local: Your Guide to All Things Home 54 Million Dollar Listing: Naperville’s White Eagle 56 Unique in Suburbia: The Literary Garden 58 College Time: Aptitude Testing Can Help 60 Kid Stuff: Holiday Fall Fun for All Ages 62 7 Spectacular: Local Gifts Glancer Magazine • NOVEMBER 2024 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 5

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NOVEMBER 20245 Things to DoGlancer Magazine • NOVEMBER 2024 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 75. Yorkville’s Holiday Celebration NOVEMBER 22 & 23 YORKVILLE–Join the fun in downtown Yorkville for a magical weekend of festive events! Enjoy community performances, a spectacular parade, and a tree lighting ceremony on Friday, November 22. Saturday, November 23, offers visits with Santa, the Jingle Jog Fun Run, the Rudolph Run 5K, and a dazzling fireworks show. Proceeds from races support Kendall County families. https://bit.ly/YorkvilleHolidayCelebration4. Christmas at Cantigny NOV 22-JAN 5 WHEATON–Experience dazzling light shows, festive decorations, and a towering 28-foot Christmas tree. Enjoy ice skating, cozy cabanas, and fire pits for roasting s’mores. Sip festive drinks and explore the beautifully adorned McCormick Man-sion. www.cantigny.org1. The Fox Valley Nutcracker NOV 29, 30 & DEC 1 BATAVIA–Tickets are selling fast for the 10th anniversary production of The Fox Valley Nutcracker! Named "Top 10 Must-see Nutcrackers in Illinois" by Pointe Magazine, this is one holiday celebration you do not want to miss! www.foxvalleynutcracker.com3. The Vintage Holiday Faire BOLINGBROOK GOLF CLUB • NOV 24 BOLINGBROOK–Come out and shop the Holiday Faire Vendors, drink delish Christmas cocktails, eat amazing food, grab delec-table sweets, take pics with Santa Grinch or the gor-geous fireplace and stun-ning trees at the Club. $5 per person. Kids 13 and under are free. No pets allowed at this event. Held from 9am-2pm on Nov 24. www.facebook.com/the-Vintagefaire2. Chicago Thanksgiving Day Parade NOVEMBER 28 • THANKSGIVING CHICAGO–The 2024 Chicago Thanksgiving Day Parade, one of the largest Thanksgiving celebrations in the U.S., will be along State Street in downtown Chicago. This cherished holiday tradition features live entertainment, in-cluding top marching bands, vibrant floats, and celebrity hosts. The parade, originating in the 1930s, continues to captivate audiences with its colorful procession and festive atmosphere, making it a must-see event for families and visitors alike during the holiday season. www.chicagothanksgivingparade.com/

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10TRENDSGetting Ready for the SeasonHere’s What’s Trending– With the holiday season fast approaching, now is the perfect time to start plan-ning and preparing. Whether you're organizing family gatherings, decorating your home, or shopping for gifts, getting an early start can help alleviate stress and enhance the joy of the season.10 TRENDS#1 | Early Bird Gets the Worm Starting your holiday shopping in early November can save you from last-minute stress and crowds. Take advantage of early deals, both online and in-store, to snag the per-fect gifts before they sell out. Create a shopping list and prioritize items that may have limited availability. Planning ahead also allows you to budget more effectively, spread-ing out expenses over a longer period. #2 | The Art of Festive Decorating Transform your home into a holiday wonderland with thoughtful decorations. Start with a theme or color scheme to create a cohesive look. Incorporate natural elements like pinecones and greenery for an authentic seasonal touch. Personalize your decor with family heirlooms and DIY projects to add a unique, personal flair.

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10 TRENDS#3 | Family First Holidays are a time for family, so plan memorable gatherings that everyone will cherish. Host a potluck dinner, encouraging each family member to bring their favorite dish. Create new traditions, such as a family game night or a holiday movie marathon. Cap-ture the memories with photos and videos to relive the joy for years to come. #4 | Local Gems Support your community by shopping for unique gifts at local stores. Not only will you find one-of-a-kind items, but you'll also contribute to the local economy. Discover artisanal crafts, hand-made jewelry, and specialty foods that reflect the character of your area. Explore markets in Naperville, Glen Ellyn, Geneva, or Oak Brook for hidden treasures. #5 | Stress-Free Entertaining Hosting during the holidays doesn't have to be stressful. Plan your menu in advance, choosing dishes that can be prepared ahead of time. Opt for simple yet elegant table settings, and don't be afraid to ask guests to bring a dish or two. Focus on creating a comfort-able environment where guests can relax and enjoy each other's company. #6 | Gift Giving with Meaning Choosing meaningful gifts shows thoughtfulness and considera-tion. Tailor gifts to the recipient's hobbies or interests, such as a cookbook for a food lover or a journal for a writer. Consider experi-ential gifts, like tickets to a concert or a cooking class, which offer lasting memories. Personalize gifts with a handwritten note or cus-tom wrapping to make them even more special. #7 | The Best Teacher Gifts Ever Make teacher gifts truly memorable by having your child ask their teacher about their preferences. Whether it's a favorite coffee shop, hobby, or book genre, centering the gift around their inter-ests shows genuine appreciation. This personal touch not only makes the gift more meaningful but also strengthens your relation-ship with the teacher. #8 | Planning Your To-Do List Create a holiday-themed to-do list with activities you and your family can look forward to. Schedule visits to see holiday lights, at-tend local festive events, or explore decorative museums. Having a plan ensures you maximize your holiday experience, making it fun-filled from start to finish. Plus, it gives everyone something ex-citing to anticipate. #9 | Utilize Online Planning Sites Online platforms like Pinterest and Etsy can be invaluable re-sources for holiday planning. Gather inspiration for decorating, gift ideas, and recipes, and organize your thoughts on virtual boards. These sites also offer access to unique, handcrafted items, ensur-ing your celebrations stand out. Leverage technology to stream-line and enhance your holiday preparations.10. Shop Local #10 | Shop Local Choose your favorite local shops and match them to those on your gift list. Local stores often carry distinct, high-quality goods that aren't available in big-box retailers. By supporting these busi-nesses, you not only find perfect gifts but also foster a spirit of community and sustainability. Explore local options in Naperville, Glen Ellyn, Geneva, and Oak Brook. Glancer Magazine • NOVEMBER 2024 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 9

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10 • WESTERN SUBURBS • NOVEMBER 2024 • Glancer Magazine ON STAGEARTS + ENTERTAINMENTParamount Theatre AURORA–Disney’s Frozen the Broadway Musical promises to bring the beloved Disney animated film to life to the delight of the entire family, filling the theater with winter magic. The stage adaptation, nominated for a Tony Award for Best Musical, maintains the film's enchanting music, including the iconic and award-winning song “Let It Go,” and beloved hits like “For the First Time in Forever,” “Love Is an Open Door” and “Do You Want to Build a Snowman?” Spectacular set designs and dazzling special effects will transport audiences to wintry landscapes populated by the now iconic sisters, Elsa and Anna, along with fantastical characters like Olaf the snow-man and Sven the reindeer. Disney’s Frozen the Broadway Musical Through January 19www.paramountaurora.com

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Glancer Magazine • NOVEMBER 2024 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 11The Chicago Theatre CHICAGO–Brett Eldredge will bring the GLOW: Welcome to the Family Tour with special guest Stacey Ryan to The Chi-cago Theatre on December 6, 7 & 8. www.msg.com/the-chicago-theatreBrett Eldredge Coming December 6-8 to Chicago Theatre Disney’s The Little Mermaid Coming November 2024 Drury Lane Theatre OAK BROOK–Coming November 6-January 12, Dive beneath the waves with Ariel, a young mermaid with a captivating voice and an in-satiable curiosity, as she defies her father and makes a daring deal for the chance to live her dreams on land. With enchanting songs like “Under the Sea,” “Part of Your World,” and “Kiss the Girl,” The Little Mermaid is a heartwarming tale of love, sacrifice, and discovering your true self that will delight audiences of all ages. www.drurylanetheatre.com/the-little-mermaid/

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The holiday season is the perfect time to indulge in the joy of baking, and sugar cookies are a timeless favor-ite. Decorating them with colorful icing, sprinkles, and edible glitter adds to the fun! Enjoy recipes from Sofies Recipes at https://www.facebook.com/Sofie.Recipes. Visit us online for more holiday surprises! www.glancermagazine.com and subscribe today to have more ideas sent direct to your inbox. 12 • WESTERN SUBURBS • NOVEMBER 2024 • Glancer Magazine Sugar Cookie delightsRECIPE SHARE

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Christmas TreesCandy CanesVIEW RECIPE RECIPE SHAREVIEW RECIPE Santa ClausVIEW RECIPE

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NaperLights Returns in Downtown Naperville Sunrise Rotary Display Will Be a Winter Wonderland on Water Street Naperville Sunrise Rotary’s NaperLights holiday display will make the season bright along Water Street and the south side of the Riverwalk. Photo opportunities abound, from the Giant Teddy Bear and the dazzling red Santa Throne to the amazing rainbow arch over Foyo Plaza. Visitors can access the display from the Webster Street covered bridge, Main Street and Webster Street. Strollers can enjoy the outdoors with public parking available in the Water Street and Municipal Center parking decks. Lights on Water Street trees and the Foyo Plaza will be synced to music from 4-10 pm with an enhanced sound system which will project music across the Du-Page River, making a drive-through experience for those wishing to stay in their cars as they enjoy Downtown. The light display, a gift to the community from the Rotary Club of Naperville Sunrise, features 250,000 lights and a growing collec-tion of giant lighted holiday figures including skating polar bears, penguins sliding on an igloo, skaters, snow men, carolers, gifts, baubles, and singing trees. The Plaza Fountain will be enhanced with dancing skaters, and you might just spy Santa and his rein-deer flying through downtown. New this year, will be illuminated penguins photo opportunity display. NaperLights will be illuminated from Thanksgiving weekend through the holiday season. While they last, the popular holo-graphic viewing glasses will be available for kids from Rotary vol-unteers on weekends. Free-will donations to support Naperville Sunrise Rotary local and international charitable projects are wel-comed. On Sunday, December 8 Santa will hold court at NaperLights from 4-7 pm along with his trusty elf handing out those popular holographic glasses. A Glitter Tattoo Artist and Balloon Twister will add to the fun and there will be free cookies and cocoa while supplies last. “Water Street is delighted to be partnering with the Sunrise Ro-tary Club again to continue this popular family tradition. We were the first sponsors of the event years ago, so hosting this on Water Street, where visitors can enjoy it every night through the holidays is awesome,” says Nick Ryan, Executive Chairman of Marquette Companies. “We think families with relatives staying at Hotel In-digo will be delighted, and the spa, shops and restaurants on Water Street are eager to welcome you.” NaperLights is sponsored in part by a grant from the City of Nap-erville SECA Fund. Marquette Companies, Ryan Hill Group and Busey Bank are lead sponsors along with Naperville Bank & Trust and Gerald Cares. www.naperlights.com www.waterstreetnaperville.comDAZZLEGlancer Magazine • NOVEMBER 2024 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 15

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WOMEN INSPIREDWomenInspiredBREWED WITH PASSION AND PAWS Photos Submitted16 • WESTERN SUBURBS • NOVEMBER 2024 • Glancer Magazine

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Gina Picchi Coffee Entrepreneur and Pet Rescue Enthusiast NORTH AURORA–Gina Picchi’s story is heartwarming in every way. This local mom and business owner, Gina has woven her love for coffee and dogs into a local business that captures the spirit of giving back. This November, as Glancer Magazine celebrates women who inspire, we turn our spotlight on Gina and her beloved "A Girl and Her Dog Coffee." Growing up, Gina was surrounded by an unconditional love of animals. This early bond ignited a desire to give back, leading her to volunteer at local animal shelters, fostering dogs, and adopting those in need. Yet, her ambitions didn't stop there. With these experiences shaping her vision, Gina combined her passion for coffee with her affection for dogs to create Girl and Her Dog Coffee Emporium. A SYMPHONY OF FLAVORS With over 50 unique coffee blends and flavors, Gina’s busi-ness offers something for every palate. Each blend is crafted to deliver distinct taste experiences, making it the perfect holiday gift idea or a delightful treat for any occa-sion. From rich, bold flavors to subtle notes, these coffee blends promise satisfaction for all aficionados. (continued)WOMEN INSPIREDGlancer Magazine • NOVEMBER 2024 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 17WOMEN INSPIRED

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A PASSION FOR COMMUNITY SUPPORT Gina’s commitment goes beyond brewing the perfect cup. She continuously seeks partnerships with rescue organiza-tions, eager to support those in urgent need of supplies or medical aid. Her involvement with the Maui Humane Society, where funds were raised to assist animals displaced by the devastating fires in Lahaina, Hawaii, stands as a testament to her dedication. THE ART OF EXCEPTIONAL COFFEE At Girl and Her Dog Coffee Emporium, quality is paramount. The highest grade, Arabica coffee is sourced to ensure freshness through small-batch roasting. Each flavor extract is free from sweeteners, sugars, and calories, catering to di-verse dietary preferences. Every purchase supports rescue organizations, offering second chances to pups in need, en-capsulating Gina’s holistic approach to business. AN ONGOING JOURNEY OF INSPIRATION When asked which famous woman she would share a coffee with, Gina chooses Jane Goodall—a beacon of change for animals and the environment. Goodall's words resonate with Gina, “What you do makes a difference. And you have to de-cide what difference you want to make.” This fuels Gina's re-lentless drive to make meaningful impacts within her community. WOMEN SUPPORTING WOMEN Gina emphasizes the significance of camaraderie among women in business. This supportive network encourages shared success, motivating her to push boundaries and achieve more. It's a reflection of the broader movement to-ward women-inspired initiatives, fostering empowerment and growth in the entrepreneurial landscape. DOGS AT THE HEART OF IT ALL If Gina’s coffee had a mascot, it would undoubtedly be a dog. Her two rescue dogs, Hank and Holly, frequently feature on her social media, embodying the playful spirit of her brand. These furry companions remind us of the joy and warmth that Girl and Her Dog Coffee Emporium brings to its com-munity. LOOKING AHEAD With aspirations to expand her presence in more retail loca-tions, Gina dreams of owning a brick-and-mortar coffee shop. This vision signifies a commitment to bringing her unique coffee experience closer to her customers, offering a place where coffee, community, and compassion converge. In joining Gina's journey, you’re not just savoring exquisite coffee blends; you’re supporting a mission rooted in love and kindness. This holiday season, consider Gina Picchi’s Girl and Her Dog Coffee as a go-to choice for local gifts that res-onate with heart and purpose. Follow her page in social media and grab your favorite flavor at The Rustic Fox in North Aurora. KNOW AN INSPIRING LOCAL WOMAN? Introduce Us at editorial@glancermagazine.com18 • WESTERN SUBURBS • NOVEMBER 2024 • Glancer Magazine

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20 • WESTERN SUBURBS • NOVEMBER 2024 • Glancer Magazine DININGDINING + COCKTAILSSilver Fox Bar & GrillLOCAL DISH, NOVEMBER 2024A Fun & Festive Place to Enjoy the Season YORKVILLE–Celebrate the holidays with a splash of fun and festivity at Silver Fox Bar & Grill in Yorkville, Illinois, where good times and great company are always on the menu. Known for its trendsetting and upbeat atmosphere, Silver Fox serves up outstanding food and drinks that are sure to make your holiday gatherings unforget-table. The restaurant's four-season patio is the perfect spot to cozy up with family and friends, offering a warm and inviting space for everything from intimate dinners to lively parties. Imagine clinking glasses of distinguished cocktails, expertly crafted to elevate your holiday spirit, as you browse their broad and exciting menu. Whether you crave a succulent steak or crave sushi, Silver Fox has something to please every palate. Want to bring a personal touch to your celebration? Silver Fox specializes in hosting customized events, ensuring your holiday gathering is as unique as your guest list. From corporate team-building events to wedding receptions, their exceptional pres-entation and hospitality make every occasion special. So, gather your loved ones and head to Silver Fox Bar & Grill, where laughter is served with a side of deliciousness. Who knows, you might even spot a real silver fox—if not, the cocktails will certainly make you feel like you did! www.silverfoxyorkville.com

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Glancer Magazine • NOVEMBER 2024 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 21DINING + COCKTAILSHO-HO-HO-ld My Drink Event GRAINOLOGY • NOVEMBER 17 BATAVIA–Get ready for a festive holiday artisan market at Grainology! Shop from a curated collection of 20+ local small business owners sell-ing the perfect variety of handcrafted/sourced goods. Sip the finest bev-erages from Grainology’s extensive draft beer and handcrafted cocktail menus. Indulge in delicious ‘tailgate style’ eats by Fernando’s Street Kitchen— including ribs, brats, wings, and burgers! (11am-3pm). Get in the spirit with festive holiday tunes! Live performance by ‘Frosty And The Snowmen’ (12-4pm) www.grainologybatavia.comCCoocckkttaaiillssElfed Up Pop Up Bar OPENING NOVEMBER 9 IN WRIGLEYVILLE CHICAGO–Elf'd Up is a festive pop-up bar in Wrigleyville, Chicago, in-spired by the movie "Elf." Opening on November 9, 2024, it features whimsical cocktails, holiday-themed food like Buddy's Breakfast Pasta, and vibrant decorations including over 1,000 elves and Christmas trees. The bar offers a unique holiday experience with themed drinks and decor, making it a perfect spot for private parties and holiday cele-brations. Located at 3485 N Clark St, it operates daily with special hours during the holiday season. www.elfdup.comBG Hospitality Group Invites You In! OCTOBER 25, 26, 31 CHICAGOLAND– With a current total of six GIA MIA restaurants located throughout the western suburbs, Livia in Downtown Geneva moto imōto located in St. Charles and their newest concept in Geneva and Elmhurst, Ella’s Italian Pub, The BG Hospitality Group champions the creation of unique chef-driven, farm-to-table creative plates and an innovative casual atmosphere residents love. Reserve your holiday dinner out with friends or your company party at one of their fabulous locations - you’’ll be so happy you did. www.thebghgroup.com

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MMOOMM’’SS Glancer Gives Back The Gift of Giving NAPERVILLE–The greatest gift that can be received is actually the gift of giving. In the spirit of camaraderie and community, my friends and I gathered to volunteer at Midwest Shelter for Homeless Veterans, an organization dedicated to providing es-sential support to veterans in need. Our mission for the day was to take inventory of the warehouse items that play a crucial role in outreach efforts. We arrived at the warehouse with enthusiasm and were greeted by Denny - who brought his smile and matched our zest for get-ting the job done! He shared the importance of the inventory process and provided a list of the items that required documen-tation - everything from clothing and household goods to linens and personal care items. I couldn’t help but notice the thou-sands of socks from Bombas! I had seen the Shark Tank epi-sode where they vowed to donate one pair of socks for every pair purchased, and WOWZA did they donate a lot to Midwest Shelter for Homeless Veterans! Armed with our lists, pens, and a sense of purpose, this ambi-tiously, organized, compassionate group of ladies set to work. We divided ourselves into teams, each focusing on different sec-tions of the warehouse. little black bookA New Adventure Every Month!featuring24 • WESTERN SUBURBS • NOVEMBER 2024 • Glancer Magazine

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Glancer Magazine • NOVEMBER 2024 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 25One group tackled the t-shirts, undergarments, and thousands of socks; another sorted through linens, towels, and paper products; yet another sorted through boxes of donated household items, such as plates, cups, and utensils; while the last pair me-ticulously counted bottle after box of hygiene pro-ducts. Laughter, music, and friendly banter echoed through the rooms, transforming what could have been a tedious task into a joyful evening of team-work. Within a couple hours, we had made great pro-gress and completed the task. As the evening drew to a close, we realized that although we came to help, we gained equally as much. It was a re-minder of how important it is to give back to those who have given so much for our country. Our night at the shelter was not just about inven-tory; it was about friendship, purpose, and making a positive impact. We left with a renewed sense of commitment to our community, eager to return. OVERVIEW Vision: To end veteran homelessness so that no person who has defended our homes goes without a home. Values: Compassion, Dedication, Integrity, Re-sponsibility, Welcoming, "Can-Do" Attitude, and In-dividualized Care To empower at-risk veterans, and their families, to become self-sufficient, productive members of their communities. Midwest Shelter for Homeless Veterans 433 S Carlton Ave, Wheaton www.helpaveteran.org (630) 871-8387 Hours: 8:30am-4:30pm Monday-Friday Price $: Free ABOUT THE WRITER Kristen Kucharski’s days are never dull, her kids are never bored! Over the years #MomsLittleBlackBook has explored hun-dreds of kid friendly things to do in our surrounding community and on the road. As her girls have grown and gone away to college, she continues to enjoy unique activities, excursions, day trips, weekend get-a-aways, and road trips while rediscov-ering my own passion for adventure with friends, girls nights outs, and date nights. In her words: “Life is a journey–might as well have fun along the way. Go, fly, roam, travel, voyage, explore, discover!”MOM’S LITTLE BLACK BOOK

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28 • WESTERN SUBURBS • OCTOBER 2024 • Glancer Magazine REAL ESTATE Meet Ewelina Rafael, Top Producing Realtor for Naperville, DuPage County and Beyond With an intuitive grasp of market trends and a true passion for connecting people to their dream homes, Ewelina Rafael has built a rep-utation that resonates across Illinois. Recog-nized in Coldwell Banker’s elite Top 4% International President’s Circle for 2023 and ranked among the top 2% of Illinois agents in 2022 in residential sales volume, Ewelina pairs industry expertise with a uniquely modern, client-centered approach. Her concierge style experience—customized and attentive from start to close—has earned her a loyal following and a steady stream of referrals. Ewelina’s influence extends beyond Illinois borders as the #1 Real-tor on Social Media in both Naperville and Illi-nois, recognized nationally by Property Spark, where she ranks among the top 30 Realtors on social media. Her clients describe her as an ally, advocate, and meticulous strategist, delivering a seamless, stress-free experience marked by in-tegrity and skill. Ewelina isn’t just selling homes; she’s setting new standards, one home at a time. Ewelina Rafael, Realtor COLDWELL BANKER GLOBAL LUXURY (630) 965-7712 www.ewelinarealtor.com CERTIFICATIONS CB Global Luxury, Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist, Member Institute for Luxury Home Marketing REAL ESTATE SPOTLIGHTPhoto by Ruta Drulia for Glancer Magazine

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Shop Gallery28 • WESTERN SUBURBS • NOVEMBER 2024 • Glancer Magazine

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Jill Card, Owner Photos by Ruta Druliatrendy. local. inviting.Glancer Magazine • NOVEMBER 2024 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 29

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OVER 50+ VENDORS trend + relic Featuring Only the Best and Most Unique Furniture, Jewelry, Art, and Other Bespoke Items ST. CHARLES–trend + relic is an experience that shoppers re-member, as this unique multi-vendor marketplace has carefully selected experienced merchants who are artisans, builders, re-finishers and painters, boutique owners and more each offering the most special items to adorn your home and make you feel beautiful. 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 and they have a variety of clothing & accessories, too. Each of the wonderfully talented merchants have created beautiful spaces in the shop as well as local mar-kets so you will find some of your very favorites here. trend + relic, 1501 Indiana Avenue, St. Charles, Illinois (630) 803-5253 • www.trendandrelic.comShop Gallery30 • WESTERN SUBURBS • NOVEMBER 2024 • Glancer Magazine

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trendy. local. inviting.Glancer Magazine • NOVEMBER 2024 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 31

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ON TREND ESSENTIALS NEW LOCATION IN CAROL STREAM NORTH AURORA/CAROL STREAM–Urban Echo Shop fea-tures on trend essentials for the stylish at heart– from clothing and accessories, to home decor, unique furniture, gifts and seasonal trends. Owned by local mom, Lindy Kleivo and her daughter Madison in Sugar Grove, Illinois, Urban Echo Shop was created to be an adored virtual hometown boutique where only the latest styles and trends are featured. Residents are invited to sit back and relax while browsing the shop’s simplified trend collections on-line or shop at The Rustic Fox in North Aurora and Carol Stream (NEW!), where you will find hundreds of unique vendors. Each day is a new day at Urban Echo Shop. ON TREND ESSENTIALS FOR THE STYLISH AT HEART Located Inside The Rustic Fox (Vendor #3) 1790 Town Centre Dr., North Aurora 570 S Schmale Rd, Carol Stream At the Entrance to the Left at Both LocationsShop Gallery32 • WESTERN SUBURBS • NOVEMBER 2024 • Glancer Magazine

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trendy. local. inviting.Glancer Magazine • NOVEMBER 2024 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 33

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Kindness... Pass It On by Riley Preston CHICAGO–Riley Preston, a 7th grade author and entrepreneur from Chi-cago, has made it his mission to empower kids to lead by example, igniting a movement to make a positive impact on the world. Three years ago, he launched “Little Leaders, Big Voices”, urging kids to use their voices for the greater good. Since then, Riley has actively engaged with peers and community leaders advocating for kindness, compassion and support in their communities. In his first book, Kindness… Pass It On, Riley struggles starting at a new school and finds it difficult to make friends. He discovers that, when we choose to show kindness to others, above all else, we can make the world a better place… one random act of kindness at a time. Now, Riley unveils his most recent book, Pavement to Podium: A Skateboar-der’s Journey. This masterpiece is more than just a story. It’s an example of the power of perseverance in the face of adversity. Riley’s determination is a reminder that obstacles are simply stepping stones on the path to achiev-ing your goals. Join Riley, a spirited young skateboarder, as he navigates the exhilarating world of skateboarding. Riley’s unwavering spirit will sweep readers away as he conquers his fears, overcomes challenges, and embraces the thrill of the ride. From wiping out on the pavement to a triumphant victory on the po-dium, Riley’s journey is proof that, with a bit of grit, determination, and perse-verance, dreams really can come true! Inside Pavement to Podium, readers of all ages are invited to share in Riley’s quest for victory. They will experience the excitement of the competition, the adrenaline rush of defying gravity on the ramps, and the euphoric feeling of claiming first place. Join Riley in his pursuit of excellence, reminding readers that the journey to a better world tomorrow starts with what we do today. Riley believes the jour-ney begins with you and even the smallest acts of kindness can be the cat-alyst for big change. www.instagram.com/llbigvoices LITERAARRYYlocalKNOW A LOCAL AUTHOR?  editorial@glancermagazine.com34 • WESTERN SUBURBS • NOVEMBER 2024 • Glancer Magazine

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36 • WESTERN SUBURBS • NOVEMBER 2024 • Glancer Magazine ENJOY GREAT FOOD & MORE Holiday Cooking Classes FEEL THE EXCITEMENT AT WEBER GRILL LOMBARD/SCHAUMBURG–Make your holiday celebration unforgetta-ble by booking your team event or group celebration at Weber Grill! Their state-of-the-art Weber Grill Cooking School offers a one-of-a-kind, hands-on learning environment where your group can master the art of grilling. From public cooking classes to tailored experiences like private parties and corporate team-building events, each session is led by ex-pert chefs. Join Weber Grill for an exciting, skill-building experience that will bring everyone together around great food and even better com-pany. www.webergrillrestaurant.com/cooking-classes/♫ JINGLE ALL THE WAY♫ ♪

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Glancer Magazine • NOVEMBER 2024 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 37BEAUTIFUL PERFORMANCE Fox Valley Nutcracker SUPPORT THIS NON-PROFIT THIS HOLIDAY SEASON BATAVIA–Fox Valley Ballet is proud to present The Fox Valley Nutcracker this holiday season! Celebrating its 10th anniver-sary this year, this spectacular performance is sure to wow its audiences with enthralling choreography, vibrant costumes, mesmerizing sets and more! Fox Valley Ballet is a non-profit that brings together a community of dancers from all over the Chicagoland area to perform alongside guest artists, including performers from the Joffrey Ballet of Chicago. www.foxvalleynutcracker.com♫ JINGLE ALL THE WAY♫ ♪

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OLDE FARM CREEK FarmHer’s Very Merry Christmas Market in Yorkville November 15 & 16 YORKVILLE–FarmHer’s Very Merry Christmas Market is a handmade, vintage, and boutique style market presented by Olde Farm Creek. Visit an array of artisans featuring holiday inspired handmade treasures, vin-tage collections, and boutique style decor. Enjoy the beautiful atmosphere of the indoor and outdoor market while sipping on holiday inspired drinks. Plus, enjoy food from local vendors. Come for a great day of Christmas shopping and fun with friends! The 2-day market will be on: Friday • 4pm-5pm • EARLY BIRD SPECIAL $15 Friday • 5pm-9pm • $10 at the gate Saturday • 9am-3pm • $5 at the gate ADMISSION: $10 at the gate on Friday and $5 at the gate on Saturday, children 12 and under are free. Kendall County Fairgrounds, 10826 IL 71, Yorkville Note: No strollers or wagons are allowed in the buildings. www.oldefarmcreek.com ♫ JINGLE ALL THE WAY♫ ♪38 • WESTERN SUBURBS • NOVEMBER 2024 • Glancer Magazine

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OSWEGO FUN Holiday Express December 13-15 OSWEGO–Join in the tradition this holiday sea-son! All aboard to kiddos young and old, as the Oswegoland Park District presents the Oswego Holiday Express. Magical “trains” depart Santa Station the weekend of December 13-15 for the North Pole. Put on your pajamas, don your war-mest apparel, and head to the top of the world on a magical journey. Mrs. Claus will greet you, you'll enjoy hot cocoa and cookies, and meet Santa! Register online today! bit.ly/oswegohex all aboard!♫ JINGLE ALL THE WAY♫ ♪Glancer Magazine • NOVEMBER 2024 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 39

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40 • WESTERN SUBURBS • NOVEMBER 2024 • Glancer Magazine ♫ JINGLE ALL THE WAY♫ ♪GLEN ELLYN Make Your Holidays Safe & Brighter The holidays are upon us and there is not a better time to make sure that your home’s electrical is pro-tected, up to date and ready for your holiday festive gatherings. Prepare your home now with safety checks, outdoor lighting upgrades and protection, new indoor light fixtures, can lighting, dimmers or accents. Enjoy your holidays with a fresh bright new look and peace of mind. Hi-Lite Electrical are not just electricians, but profes-sionally qualified electrical consultants who bring a holistic approach for a safe home and environment. www.hilite-electric.com or (630) 897-4300

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Glancer Magazine • NOVEMBER 2024 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 41♫ JINGLE ALL THE WAY♫ ♪

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DOWNERS GROVE Welcoming New Businesses Downtown Downers Grove DOWNERS GROVE–So much is happening Downtown Downers Grove this holiday season! You’re invited to celebrate Small Business Week-end on November 29-December 1. On November 29 watch as Santa helps light the Community Tree at 4:30pm. Vote for your favorite busi-ness in the Holiday Window Contest, November 29-December 8. Com-plimentary horse drawn wagonette rides will be on Sunday, December 1, 1-4pm. The Gingerbread Man Hunt & Candy Cane Cash Rewards will be held throughout the holiday season. Complimentary visits with Santa in his Gingerbread House Saturdays and Sundays 1-4pm, No-vember 30-December 22nd. Strolling community carolers will be spreading holiday cheer Saturdays and Sundays, November 30-De-cember 22nd. This is the perfect opportunity to explore downtown Downers Grove re-tailers for one-of-a-kind gifts, enjoy self-care at one of the barbers or salons, or take a break in one of the restaurants. Shop & dine small this holiday season and you will be giving a gift that will continue to give back! Make sure to visit Mud and Easel Pottery Studio that just opened at 4958 Main Street, www.downtowndg.org42 • WESTERN SUBURBS • NOVEMBER 2024 • Glancer Magazine♫ JINGLE ALL THE WAY♫ ♪

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Glancer Magazine • NOVEMBER 2024 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 43SEASONAL FUN Holiday Express at Blackberry Farm 100 S. Barnes Road, Aurora • 630-892-1550 AURORA–Bring the family for a magical and memorable experience – just like visiting the North Pole! Blackberry Farm is a winter wonderland amid thousands of twinkling lights, festive holiday decorations and happy holiday music. Take a ride on the Holiday Express train – a charming tour around scenic Lake Gregory – and enjoy a hay wagon ride, too. Back in the historic pioneer village, you’ll enjoy crafts, a reindeer food bar, story readings of holiday classics at the one-room schoolhouse and…a special visit with Santa. Tickets go on sale November 7 at 9 a.m. Visitors to Holiday Express can also enjoy: • Listening to storytellers recite tales of Christmas • Searching for strategically placed golden candy canes and, upon com-pletion, entering to win a 2025 Family Season Pass to Blackberry Farm • Making crafts in Weaver’s Cabin • Preparing reindeer food to sprinkle across front lawns on Christmas Eve • Getting hands-on at the sensory table in Little Farmer’s Junction • Exploring the Adventure Playground • Shopping holiday ornaments and decorations in the Gift Shop www.blackberryfarm.info aurora♫ JINGLE ALL THE WAY♫ ♪

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DOWNTOWN NAPERVILLE Santa’s Naperville Workshop NAPERVILLE–Santa is coming to town this holi-day season and you’re invited to visit! Register now for Santa’s Naperville Workshop, hosted by the Naperville Park District and presented by Woody Buick GMC and other community partners. The workshop will be open daily from December 2-22 at Paddleboat Quarry Rentals (441 Aurora Avenue on the Naperville Riverwalk), which will be magically transformed for the holiday season. Re-servations are required; walk-ups are not available. Visit online to make a reservation. www.napervilleparks.org/ santasworkshopfun with santa!44 • WESTERN SUBURBS • NOVEMBER 2024 • Glancer Magazine ♫ JINGLE ALL THE WAY♫ ♪

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DOWNTOWN NAPERVILLE Girls Night Out Fun! NAPERVILLE–Summer fun awaits! Plan a GNO, date night or co-worker hang out. Pinot’s Palette is the best night out in Nap-erville! It’s a fun-filled, party atmosphere where you and your friends, family or date can talk, laugh, paint and sip. You don't need any art experience – their talented local artists will guide you step-by-step through the night painting. Follow their instructions or go rogue and end up with a one-of-a-kind masterpiece! They also offer Mosaic Classes, Chunky Knit Blankets, Take Home Painting Kits, Virtual Live Streaming, In Studio and Vir-tual Private Parties! • Aprons and supplies provided • Snacks are welcome • Real wine glasses – no paper or plastic • There’s always rockin’ music Pinot's Palette Naperville 175 W. Jackson Avenue Downtown Naperville www.pinotspalette.com/naperville wine time!Glancer Magazine • NOVEMBER 2024 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 45♫ JINGLE ALL THE WAY♫ ♪

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46 • WESTERN SUBURBS • NOVEMBER 2024 • Glancer Magazine TRENDY TRAVELERTrendY Ten Butterfly Tickets will be hidden randomly amongst the mailed guides offering a once-in-a-lifetime VIP Dollywood Experience NASHVILLE–Kids have a big say when it comes to family travel, and that's why Dollywood's "Dreamer in Chief" Dolly Parton has teamed up with Tennessee Tourism to inspire the ultimate Playcation. Together, they're inviting kids—and kids-at-heart—to plan their perfect Tennessee adventure with the Tennessee Playcation Kid's Guide. Available now for pre-order at DollyPlaycation.com, the 90-plus page guide sparks creativity and pure imagination, helping families map out their dream getaway. Ten Butterfly Tickets will be hidden randomly amongst the mailed guides offering a once-in-a-lifetime VIP Dollywood Experience. 10 Lucky Families to Win Dollywood Trip of a LifetimeTraveler

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Glancer Magazine • NOVEMBER 2024 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 47The lucky recipients will win a VIP celebration at the park's 2025 sea-son opening (timed with its 40th sea-son), including a two-night stay at one of Dollywood's luxury resorts for a family of four, season passes to Dollywood, a signed Dolly-inspired guitar and an activity pass to explore more of Pigeon Forge's family-friendly attractions. "I love making dreams come true, and this is a chance for families to dream big and plan their perfect Ten-nessee vacation at one of my favor-ite places – Dollywood," said Dolly Parton. "I'm tickled to be part of this adventure and help create some memories that will last a lifetime. There's nothing quite like spending time with family, and I'm just thrilled to give folks a little something special with these Butterfly Tickets!" The free Tennessee Playcation Kid's Guide is available for pre-order start-ing October 29 at DollyPlaycation.com, with guides ar-riving in mailboxes by November 25. Featuring kid-friendly activities and real Tennessee destinations, the in-teractive guide turns trip planning into a fun, family affair. Kids can also submit their own artwork for a chance to be featured on a Tennes-see-sponsored billboard. More than 250,000 printed guides are available upon request at TNva-cation.com. The Playcation cam-paign, first launched in 2023, has become a year-long initiative to en-gage families and inspire kids to play an active role in vacation planning. The guide features over 45 family-friendly Tennessee destinations, such as Dollywood, the Memphis Zoo, Tennessee Aquarium, Grand Ole Opry, and more. Join the conversation on social media with @TNvacation using hashtag #TNSoundsPerfect. TRENDY TRAVELER

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Glancer Magazine • NOVEMBER 2024 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 51HOME LOCALELECTRICAL SOLUTIONS Keeping Your Life On Whenever you have electrical interruptions, emergency needs or repairs, we are here. Hi-Lite Electric are not just electricians, but professionally qualified electrical consultants who bring a holistic approach to creating the safest and most professional home electrical environment. From emergency services, safety checks, repairs, upgrades, interior/exterior lighting, home improvements, new appliance integration, electronics, generators to EV stations, you’ll receive prompt and qualified service. Since 2006 we have serviced Kane and DuPage counties and all our work comes with a 90-day parts and 1-year labor warranty. When it comes to electric, we keep your life on. www.hilite-electric.com (630) 897-4300 BUILD YOUR DREAM HOME The Home of Your Dreams, Built to Last M/I Homes has been building new homes of outstanding quality and superior design for more than 40 years. Founded in 1976 by Irving and Melvin Schottenstein, and guided by Irving’s drive to always “treat the customer right,” we’ve ful-filled the dreams of over 150,000 homeowners and grown to become one of the nation’s leading homebuilders. • Whole Home Building Standards • Whole Home 100% Certified • Design Studio • Warranty Commitment • M/I Financial A lot goes into every home we build. That’s just the beginning of what makes us better. Visit any M/I community and we’ll give you all the details of the M/I Difference. Visit us online to learn more. www.mihomes.com/rightplace beautiful living

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HOME SERVICES Preparing Your Home for Winter: Tips from McNally's Heating and Cooling Preparing your home for winter is essential to ensure comfort and efficiency during the colder months. By following these tips and scheduling a professional HVAC inspection with McNally's Heating and Cooling, you can rest assured that your system will perform op-timally all season long. • Schedule a Tune-Up • Replace Filters • Test Thermostat • Clean Air Ducts Contact us today to schedule your fall HVAC maintenance and keep your home cozy and warm as the temperatures drop. McNally’s Heating and Cooling is a trusted provider of HVAC serv-ices throughout Kane and DuPage County, specializing in heating, cooling, and indoor air quality solutions. With a dedication to cus-tomer satisfaction and a commitment to excellence, McNally’s Heat-ing and Cooling delivers reliable and efficient HVAC services to residential and commercial clients. McNally’s Heating & Cooling www.mcnallyhvac.com | 630-363-9067 at homeHOME LOCAL52 • WESTERN SUBURBS • NOVEMBER 2024 • Glancer Magazine

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Glancer Magazine • NOVEMBER 2024 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 53HOME LOCAL

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lliissttiinnggWhite Eagle Neighborhood Located in Naperville's White Eagle neighborhood, 1596 Pine Lake Drive epitomizes modern luxury living. This home offers access to a private Arnold Palmer 27-hole golf course, a pool, paddle ball court, and a clubhouse with a dining room. Meticulously renovated, the home features a striking brick exterior, lush landscaping, and a two-story foyer that leads to an open floor plan with 9-foot ceilings. The modern kitchen, new appliances, refinished hardwood floors, and crystal light fixtures highlight the home's elegance. (630) 202-2880 Presented by: Jurate Vaitkeviciute Brokered by Coldwell Banker Realty $1,097,000 1596 Pine Lake Dr, Naperville 4 Bed / 3.5 BathMILLION DOLLAR REAL ESTATE54 • WESTERN SUBURBS • NOVEMBER 2024 • Glancer Magazine

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Beautiful Inside & Out The luxurious master suite includes a seating area, spa bath, dual vanities, a freestanding whirlpool tub, and a walk-in shower. The second level has four bedrooms and two bathrooms, while the fin-ished basement provides versatile spaces and a full bathroom. Out-door entertainment options abound with a large deck, gazebo, patio, and fire pit. Recent updates include a new roof, windows, HVAC systems, and a concrete driveway. Close to restaurants, shops, and in the 204 school district, this home offers a perfect blend of luxury and comfort. REAL ESTATEGlancer Magazine • NOVEMBER 2024 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 55

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The Literary Garden Holiday Shopping Awaits NORTH AURORA–This unique shop at The Rustic Fox in North Au-rora features a curated collection of all things literary for book lovers and those who know and love them. If you’re looking for special gifts for readers of all ages, you’re sure to find them here! From unique mugs and holiday ornaments to novelty gifts such as book pages in art format, framed literary-themed artwork and more. Shoppers will also find practical gifts like reading lights and reading pillows. Pictured are a few favorites. The Literary Garden is a collaboration presented by Wild Flowers and Nancy Neill Designs. Visit The Rustic Fox today and shop local this holiday season, starting with The Literary Garden. The Literary Garden at The Rustic Fox 1790 Towne Centre Dr, North Aurora (630) 907-9218in SuburbiaUNIQUE56 • WESTERN SUBURBS • NOVEMBER 2024 • Glancer Magazine

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Glancer Magazine • NOVEMBER 2024 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 57UNIQUE IN SUBURBIA

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EDUCATION NEWS58 • WESTERN SUBURBS • NOVEMBER 2024 • Glancer Magazine

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CAREER VISION APTITUDE TESTING CAN HELP STUDENTS CHOOSE MAJORS AND CAREERS What are you doing after high school? You know further edu-cation is important. Do you need help finding the right career choice? The Career Vision Aptitude Advantage can help. Aptitudes identify your strongest talents, the jobs you would enjoy and be good at doing. Combining your aptitudes with your interests, Career Vision reveals your career choices. You also receive resources about college majors, job outlook, and preparation needed for those careers. If you have asked “What should I study?”, “What will I do after college?” and want to learn how Career Vision can help, give them a call. Their assessment process is a positive and an objective way to give you confidence to make good career choices. And your Personal Career Consultant will take time to discuss the test results with you and go over all your choices. If you are going to college and want to know what to study, reach out to Career Vision today. If you have graduated col-lege and still haven’t found your best fit, the professional con-sultants at Career Vision can help you, too. For over 30 years they have been helping students and adults find their best ca-reer choices. Career Vision • www.careervision.org • (630) 469-6270CCOOLLLLEEGGEE TTIIMMEEEDUCATION NEWSGlancer Magazine • NOVEMBER 2024 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 59

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Kid StuffKids Christmas Fun Fair SUNDAY, DEC 7 • 9-Noon NAPERVILLE–Zion Lutheran Church in Naperville (111th Street & Book Road) will be hosting a Kids' Christmas Fun Fair. There will be many different craft tables, a face painter, singalongs and several picture boards that will allow your children to suddenly become the angels (or other things) you always brag them to be. The pictures you take would make great Christmas cards! Best of all, it's free. www.zionnaperville.org/upcoming-events JoJo’s Hot Chocolates ALL SEASON LONG NAPERVILLE–Cozy up with JoJo's Hot Choco-lates! Whether you’re In the mood for the classic, Craving Salted Caramel, or Dreaming of Double Chocolate, they have got your perfect winter warm-up! For reservations, visit online today! https://bit.ly/48jjHKO 60 • WESTERN SUBURBS • NOVEMBER 2024 • Glancer Magazine Christmas Light Tours ALL SEASON LONG NAPERVILLE–For the past 29 years, this FAMOUS Trolley Tour has been the tradition of many residents and visitors alike! Let Naperville Trolley drive you as they Trolley-la-la-la past many beautifully decorated homes for the Holidays in December while you sit back and enjoy time with your friends and family. A Naper-ville tradition for 29 years! www.napervilletrolley.com

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KID STUFFTake Time to Connect ENJOY THE SPIRIT OF THE SEASON AT DUPAGE CHILDREN’S MUSEUM NAPERVILLE–Life gets busy; take time to connect as a family with a trip to Du-Page Children’s Museum (DCM). We have the equation for a great day; Playing + Learning = SERIOUS FUN! Kids and adults together have a blast exploring the Museum’s hands-on exhibits, making new discoveries, and creating lasting mem-ories. Make a splash in AWEsome Water, pilot Rosie Revere’s Cheesecopter in The Questioneers: Read. Question. Think. PLAY!, build a winding track in DCM Ex-press – a pop-up experience featuring trains, and then refuel for more play at Bean Sprouts Café. You and your family will laugh, learn, and love spending time to-gether at DCM. The holidays are almost here… DCM memberships make special gifts that last all year long. (630) 637-8000 www.dupagechildrens.org adventure awaitsGlancer Magazine • NOVEMBER 2024 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 61

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62 • WESTERN SUBURBS • NOVEMBER 2024 • Glancer Magazine 4. Girl and Her Dog Coffee Emporium NORTH AURORA–Looking for the perfect gift? Shop this local coffee shop located in The Rustic Fox near the register. They use the high-est grade Arabica coffee available and small batch roast-ing provides the freshest coffee possible. Plus, their flavoring extracts contain no sweeteners, sugars or calories and are gluten free. Enjoy a wide variety of flavored and unflavored cof-fee in both whole bean and ground. With every coffee purchase they support Rescue Organizations providing a second chance for pups in need. 4.2. Marche GLEN ELLYN–You simply can’t go wrong with Marche’s Cus-tomer Favorites Gift Box, guaranteed to please the whole gang. Plus everything needed for a quick and easy cheese board presentation, packed in their signature gift box with production and tasting notes. Over 1 pound of their best sellers, including: Iowa’s Prairie Breeze Cheddar, Spanish sheeps milk Manchego, Goat Gouda from the Netherlands. So tasty! So amazing! www.marche496.com3. Spirits & Spice OAK BROOK–Take your taste buds on a flavor tour and learn to make custom cocktails, participate in sample whiskey or tequila experiences, and appreciate weekly wine tastings with the gift of spirits and spice at ongoing Oak Brook events. www.spiritsandspice.com/pages/oakbrook-events 1. Fox Valley Winery OSWEGO–Give the gift of par-ticipation in the world of wine through a Fox Valley Winery Wine Club Gift Membership. The per-fect gift for wine lovers and clients. Whether you prefer red, white, dry or sweet, you’ll find the perfect wine for your palate. Also enjoy experiences such as making your own wine la-bels, tasting rooms, and art classes such as painting and Gingerbread House Making. www.foxvalleywinery.com GIVE THE GIFT OF A FUN & UNIQUE EXPERIENCE THIS SEASON Looking for a fun and unique gift this holiday season? Why not give the gift of an experience at one of these local area establishments? From wine-inspired activities and cooking classes, to belly dancing, candle making and grill-your-own, here are 7 Spectacular Gift Giv-ing Experience you and yours will love.LOCAL CHRISTMAS GIFTS TO LOVE2.1.3.gift card

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Glancer Magazine • NOVEMBER 2024 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 636. trend+relic NORTH AURORA–A treasure trove for home decor ehthusiasts. This unique store blends vintage charm with modern flair, offering a curated selection of furniture, home decor, and gifts. Whether you're in search of trendy accents or timeless relics, trend+relic caters to all tastes and styles. Discover distinc-tive pieces that elevate your living space, making this shop a must-visit destination for anyone seeking stylish uniqueness. A gift card makes the perfect gift, too! www.trendandrelic.com5. Ornament Ladies BOLINGBROOK–Did you know there’s a shop dedicated to Christmas and it’s located nearby in Bolingbrook? So fun! They sell hand-lettered personalized Christmas orna-ments, holiday decorations, and more. It’s not just limited to holiday decor whicb is even better! Explore their diverse collection of gifts and cards tailored for every occasion. Located in Bolingbrook Promenade. 5.7. Jeans and a Cute Top Shop WHEATON/ST. CHARLES–Step into fashion paradise at this favorite local boutique in Wheaton and St. Charles! Discover an array of trendy jeans and irresistible tops that make every outfit pop. Their friendly staff en-sures a personalized shopping experience in a welcoming atmosphere, perfect for style-savvy individuals on the hunt for unique, chic clothing options. www.jeansandacutetopshop.com7.6.

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