Glancer Magazine, October 2024 : simplebooklet.com

SPOOKY! Welcome to the October issue of Glancer® where we cele-brate Halloween's spooky charm with our "SPOOKY!" theme. Discover 7 Spectacular Halloween Party Themes to Love, from monster mashes to masquerade balls, en-suring your gathering is a hit. Explore 10 Trends in Local Halloween Stops throughout the western suburbs of Chi-cago, showcasing ghostly attractions and pumpkin patches. In our Women Inspired segment, meet a brilliant talent from Geneva, Illinois, whose dessert artistry turns treats into eerie masterpieces, perfect for your party's dessert table. Don't miss our readers' monthly favorites, brimming with autumnal tips, tricks, and inspi-ration. We hope this bewitching edition aids in creating a memorable Halloween! Happy Haunting! Lindy Kleivo Founding Publisher Area Director, Western Suburbs Pictured at Glancer’s Black Hat Bash in 2014 with Tami Kidd-Brown of NapervilleOCTOBER 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 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 October 2024 Vol 18, Issue 225 • 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 OOCCTTOOBBEERR 22002244®5 Hello From Glancer Magazine 7 5 Things to Do 8 10 Trends: Suburban Tricks, Treats & Things to Do 10 Scene Around Suburbia: Last Fling 2024 12 Spooky Treats: Just in Time for Halloween! 14 Beautiful Home: Amish Style 16 Women Inspired: Dessert Extraordinaire 20 Dining+Cocktails: Giardino Trattoria & Pizzeria 22 On Stage: Frozen, Annie, Little Mermaid & More 24 Mom’s Little Black Book: Millbrook Trail Rides 26 Give, To Inspire: Healing Gardens 28 Lantern Walk Downtown Batavia 29 Shop Gallery: Local Boutiques to Love 36 Literary Local: Ellen Schubart’s New Release 37 Autumn On the Go: 2024 Fall Guide to Fun 48 Trendy Traveler: Halloween in Salem, MA 51 Home Local: Your Guide to All Things Home 56 Million Dollar Listing: Beautiful in Wheaton 58 Fall Wedding Guide: Love Story, Part III 74 College Time: Aptitude Testing Can Help 76 Kid Stuff: Fall Fun for All Ages 82 7 Spectacular: Halloween Party Themes Glancer Magazine • OCTOBER 2024 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 5

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3. Molly’s Cupcakes DOWNTOWN NAPERVILLE NAPERVILLE–Step into a whimsical wonderland at Molly's Cupcakes in Naper-ville. Their unique Hallo-ween-themed cupcakes showcase creative designs and tantalizing seasonal flavors like Cookie Mon-ster, S’Mores, Choccoccino and Maple Crumb cake. You can never go wrong with a classic carrot cake cupcake - topped with cream cheese Experience the magic and delight your taste buds with these hauntingly delicious treats! www.mollyscupcakes.com4. Lumenaura INAUGURAL EVENT AURORA–The City of Au-rora’s inaugural illuminated art experience will light areas of downtown Aurora Oct 1-Nov1. Featuring immersive light-and-sound-based installations, magical projection mapping, interactive street art, live entertainment, food & beverage options,& more. www.your-voice.aurora.il.us/lumenaura1. Witches Night Out OCTOBER 10 • 6pm-9pm ST. CHARLES–The witches are back! Channel your inner Stevie Nicks, hop on your broom + follow the moon to trend + relic for this an-nual after-hours event. Enjoy henna, custom blush + masks, complimentary spooky refresh-ments, tarot readings, moody fresh flowers & more! www.trendandrelic.com2. All Hallow’s Eve OCTOBER 18 & 19 NAPERVILLE–Magic, monsters, and mythical en-tertainment will be summoned on the grounds of Naper Settlement during this annual fall festival for families with children 16 and under. Come as you are or wear a costume (no masks or weapons) and overcome your fears with a lineup of Halloween-themed outdoor activities, art, performances, and more. www.napersettlement.org/allhallowseve OCTOBER 20245 Things to DoGlancer Magazine • OCTOBER 2024 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 75. Shop Vintage-Inspired Halloween Decor THE ORCHARD HOUSE WOMEN NORTH AURORA–Enjoy a unique painting by this talented artistic duo. New pieces available online and at their local shops. The creative mother daughter duo, Shari and Sara sell farm-house antiques and collectibles, including beau-tifully unique artwork to match every season. They participate in various vintage markets and shows and also have active social media pages. ww.facebook.com/TheOrchardHouse-Women

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10TRENDSSuburban Tricks, Treats, & Things to DoHere’s What’s Trending– Halloween is just around the corner, and if you find yourself in Chicago's west-ern suburbs, you're in for a treat—or perhaps a trick! From haunted houses to family-friendly festivals, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're a local or a traveler, this listicle will guide you through the spookiest and most exciting Halloween events the area has to offer.10 TRENDS#1 | Boo at the Zoo in Brookfield Brookfield Zoo transforms into a Halloween wonderland with Boo at the Zoo. Enjoy pumpkin patches, costume parades, and spooky animal exhibits. Perfect for families looking to blend wildlife adventure with Halloween fun. www.czs.org/Boo-at-the-Zoo #2 | Disturbia Haunted House in Downers Grove Get your adrenaline pumping at Disturbia, one of the scariest haunted houses in the suburbs. This attraction promises terrifying thrills and chills that will haunt your dreams. www.hauntedhousedisturbia.com

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10 TRENDS#3 | Howlin' at the Moon NAPERVILLE–Join the Howlin' at the Moon festival in Naperville for a night of live music, food trucks, and spooky activities. This event is perfect for adults looking to celebrate Halloween in style.Find out more www.napersettlement.org/howlin #4 | All Hallow's Eve NAPERVILLE–Step back in time with All Hallow's Eve at Naper Settlement. This event offers historically-themed Halloween activ-ities, from ghost stories to vintage games. Great for history buffs and families alike.Check it out www.napersettlement.org/allhallowseve #5 | Haunted Forest at Kuiper's MAPLE PARK–Take a haunted stroll through the eerie Haunted Forest at Kuiper's Family Farm. This event features interactive scares and is suitable for both kids and adults. If you’re up for more scares, don’t pass up Jed’s Scream Shed. It’s to die for! www.kuipersfamilyfarm.com/pages/attractions #6 | Legends & Lanterns ST. CHARLES–Legends & Lanterns is an immersive Halloween experience that combines historical lore with modern-day fun. Ex-pect ghost tours, interactive displays, and more in the charming town of St. Charles. www.stcharlesil.gov/legendsandlanterns #7 | Two Brothers Round House Ghost Tour AURORA–This 1-1/2 hour lantern-guided ghost tour inside Au-rora's Two Brothers Roundhouse is hosted by Diane Ladley, “America’s Ghost Storyteller”, and includes an opportunity for guests to participate in a paranormal investigation. www.americanghostwalks.com/tour/two-brothers-round-house-ghost-tour-illinois #8 | Massacre Haunted House MONTGOMERY–For the ultimate fright, visit Massacre Haunted House. Known for its detailed sets and horrifying actors, this is one haunted house you won’t soon forget. www.fearthemassacre.com #9 | Wicked Hallows Haunted Hayride at Sonny Acres Farm WEST CHICAGO–Experience the Wicked Hallows Haunted Hay-ride at Sonny Acres Farm. This spine-chilling ride through dark woods is filled with creepy sights and scares around every corner. www.sonnyacres.com/haunted-hayride/ #10 | Trick or Treat in the Woods ROMEOVILLE–Enjoy a unique trick-or-treating experience in Ro-meoville's forest preserve. Perfect for families, this event features candy stations, spooky decorations, and a safe environment for kids. www.romeoville.org/trickortreatinthewoodsGlancer Magazine • OCTOBER 2024 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 9

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10 • WESTERN SUBURBS • OCTOBER 2024 • Glancer Magazine The Last Fling Held Labor Day Weekend NAPERVILLE–The Naperville Jay-cees Last Fling 2024 was a vibrant celebration, drawing families, music lovers, and the local com-munity. Highlights included a thril-ling carnival and energetic live music performances. The event’s main goal was to raise funds for local charities, showcasing the spirit of Naperville. Glancer Maga-zine was proud to sponsor this an-nual event, contributing to its success and community impact. This memorable weekend united residents in fun and philanthropy Photos by Mike Catuara Copyright 2024 Glancer®scenearoundsuburbiaVIEW COMPLETE GALLERY ONLINE AT GLANCERMAGAZINE.COMYOU’VE BEEN GLANCED

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Crafting Your Dream Home: Custom Amish Furniture at Farmstead Home WESTERN SUBURBS–Farmstead Home offers exceptional quality furniture made by Amish crafters and customized to meet your style and taste. Their goal is to support your de-sired outcome for your home environment with careful con-sideration to your space constraints, color scheme and budget. They operate a small location inside a boutique marketplace called trend+relic in St. Charles, Illinois. Here, Farmstead Home has a small selection of furniture pieces for presenta-tion and feature a Custom Design Center complete with full collections of cataloged builder offerings, wood samples, up-holstery fabrics, stain colors and other specialty finish options. They provide furniture for any room in your home including kitchen, dining room, bedroom, home office, living room and even basement/bar areas, all customized. “We value honesty, integrity and transparency and strive to develop a strong partnership with all of our customers through open communication and a solid commitment to delivering an end result that exceeds expectations,” shared the owner. When you buy from Farmstead Home, your pieces will look their best for many years to come! Call/Text Today! (630) 338-6557 www.farmsteadamishfurniture.com 14 • WESTERN SUBURBS • OCTOBER 2024 • Glancer Magazine HOME DESIGNBeautiful HomeAmish Style

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Paola Maggioni dessert extraordinaire GENEVA–Paola grew up in Milan, Italy, immersed in the rich culinary traditions of Northern Italian cuisine. Her mother, a trained chef, prepared authentic meals daily, fostering a deep appreciation for quality ingredients and time-honored recipes. This upbringing instilled in Paola not only a love for food but also an understanding of the cultural significance behind each dish. As an interior designer in Italy, she bal-anced her professional life with her family's passion for cook-ing; however, it was the latter that would ultimately shape her future endeavors. Upon moving to the United States in 2016, Paola faced chal-lenges finding authentic Italian products that met her high standards for flavor and quality. This struggle prompted her to recreate traditional dishes at home using only the best Italian ingredients or local organic produce. Her commitment to authenticity led her to bake and cook from cherished family recipes while navigating the limitations of available ingredients. One fortuitous day at a farmers market sparked an idea: why not share their culinary heritage with the wider community? Thus began Torte Di Paola in 2020, a home kitchen business based in Geneva. (continued)WOMEN INSPIREDGlancer Magazine • OCTOBER 2024 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 17

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As a family-oriented individual married since 2009, with two teenagers attending Geneva High School, Paola balances family life with her passion for cooking. She en-joys Pilates and yoga and indulges in her personal hand created favorites of Chocolate Salami, Ti-ramisu, Crostata and of course, Lasagna! With autumn in the air, culi-nary trends shift to embrace seasonal flavors such as the Torta Pear and Chocolate, and Quiches featuring Pumpkin and Gorgonzola. These recipes encapsulate a delightful blend of sweet and savory elements. “Our main goal has always been to share our passion with people without compromising on the quality of our products, authenticity of tastes, or our work integrity,” Paola says. “Our mission is to immerse ourselves in the community and give back where possible.” Torte Di Paola can be found year round at Batavia’s Farmer Market. 18 • WESTERN SUBURBS • OCTOBER 2024 • Glancer Magazine

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20 • WESTERN SUBURBS • OCTOBER 2024 • Glancer Magazine DININGDINING + COCKTAILSGiardino Trattoria & PizzaLOCAL DISH, OCTOBER 2024Giardino Trattoria & Pizzeria Begins Construction in Downtown Aurora, Bringing Garden-Inspired Atmosphere and Wood-Fired Pizza to the Community AURORA–Giardino Trattoria & Pizzeria is set to bring a slice of Italy to downtown Aurora, Illinois, with a new garden-themed dining experience. Located at 12 N. River St. in the historic Hobbs Building, Giardino aims to blend authenticity with modern culinary delights, starting with its signature wood-fired pizzas. Reflecting the restaurant's name, “Giardino,” meaning “garden” in Italian, the ambiance will be lush and inviting, enhancing the dining experience with a fresh, organic feel. The menu promises a range of Italian classics, from hand-made pastas to traditional entrées, emphasizing the use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients. At the helm of this culinary venture are Chef Ruben de la Cruz and Chef Martin Balderas. Chef Ruben, renowned for his expertise in seafood and Italian cuisine, brings experience from prestigious establishments like Hugo's Frog Bar. Chef Martin, known for his creative fusion of Asian and European flavors, provides a commitment to sustain-able sourcing and innovative dishes. Giardino's dedication to preserving the historical charm of the Hobbs Building, com-bined with its unique culinary offerings, promises a distinctive addition to Aurora's vi-brant dining scene. Construction is underway, with the community eagerly anticipating its grand opening.

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Glancer Magazine • OCTOBER 2024 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 21DINING + COCKTAILSWitches Night Out WICKWOOD COCKTAIL BAR • OCTOBER 26 • 5-7PM AURORA–Enjoy spooky cocktails from the Wyckwood Cocktail Bar & dress in your best witchy attire for a chance to win a $50 Wyckwood House gift card! Pop Ups by Crystal Ship & Rising Libra Jewelry, Permanent Jewelry from NJ Jewels, Tarot Card Readings with Nicole from Hoof + Horn and Photo Opps www.facebook.com/events/320797191092902CCoocckkttaaiillssCupcakes & Cocktails Pairing FALL EDITION • OCTOBER 6 & 17 AURORA–Tapville Social is partnering with Molly's Cupcakes to bring you a unique tasting experience! Join us for an event where you'll sample four delicious cupcakes paired perfectly with four hand-crafted signature cocktails. Don’t miss this sweet and spir-ited pairing event! Tickets available. www.tapvillesocial.com/store/cupcakes-cocktails 2024 Official Chicago River North Bar Crawl LIVE OCTOBER 25, 26, 31 CHICAGO–Gear up for the Chicago Halloween Bar Crawl, the premier event of the spooky season that every Windy City night owl has been waiting for. This Halloween, they're hitting up Chi-cago's hottest bars and lounges, offering a night of sinister spe-cials, electric vibes, and memories that will linger long after the costumes are put away. www.barcrawllive.com/cities/chicago-bar-crawls

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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, fill-ing the theater with winter magic. The stage adaptation, nominated for a Tony Award for Best Musical, maintains the film's enchanting music, in-cluding 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 snowman and Sven the reindeer. Disney’s Frozen the Broadway Musical October 30- January 1922 • WESTERN SUBURBS • OCTOBER 2024 • Glancer Magazine

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The Chicago Theatre CHICAGO–ANNIE is returning to Chicago November 12–December 1! ANNIE is a celebration of family, optimism and how spirit remains the ultimate cure for all the hard knocks life throws your way. ANNIE has reminded generations of theatergoers that sunshine is always right around the corner, and now the best-loved musical is set to return in a new production – just as you remember it and more! www.msg.com/the-chicago-theatreAnnie Coming in November to Chicago Theatre ARTS + ENTERTAINMENTGlancer Magazine • OCTOBER 2024 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 23Disney’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 insatiable cu-riosity, 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 au-diences of all ages. www.drurylanetheatre.com/the-little-mermaid/

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MOM’S Horses, Hot Cocoa, and Hayrides with Millbrook Trail Rides NEWARK–I have been fortunate to go on some spectacular horse rides from the mountains of Vista Verde Ranch in Col-orado to the Black Hills of Sage Meadows in South Dakota. Nestled amidst the rolling pastures and expansive cornfields of the far west suburbs in Illinois, Millbrook Trail Rides in Newark offered another unique experience that combined the thrill of horseback riding with the warmth of a bonfire. Our journey began with some quick safety tips and instructions before our guided horseback ride through the expansive 300 hundred acre secluded ranch, and the picturesque Millbrook Forest Preserve in Kendall County, just 30 minutes from my home in Naperville. As we mounted our horses, we immediately felt the calm of our well-trained companions, led by our knowledgeable guide. The trails took us through an adventure, deep into the beautiful farm-land, over Buffalo Ridge, through pastures of grazing cattle, ac-ross Hollenback Creek, into the cornfields, and past a herd of deer. While riding, I felt a sense of calm and peace, immersed in the untainted natural surroundings that felt so far removed from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. little black bookA New Adventure Every Month!featuring24 • WESTERN SUBURBS • OCTOBER 2024 • Glancer Magazine

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Glancer Magazine • OCTOBER 2024 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 25Our guide gracefully staged the perfect backdrops for memorable photos while simultaneously serving a dual role as our personal videographer, capturing our experience as we rode into the sunset! The colors of the sky were like a storybook, trans-forming from hues of pink and orange into a dark canvas, highlighted by a perfect fall moon. As we re-entered the barn area, the evening’s adventures continued around a crackling bonfire. We were in-vited to bring a chair, drinks, and snacks to share our experiences and savor the moment as the flames danced in the night. Millbrook Trail Rides isn’t just about the horseback adventure; it’s about connecting with nature and creating lasting memories. Whether you’re a sea-soned rider or a beginner, explore the beauty of Il-linois’ countryside while enjoying the peacefulness that comes with it. October events include a Fall Farm Fun Day with horseback rides, a petting zoo, hay rides, and hot cocoa; as well as Sunset Rides and Special Moonlight ride with a bonfire, chili supper, s'mores, and tarot! OVERVIEW Millbrook Trail Rides provides people of all ages the opportunity to interact with horses and enjoy a customized horseback riding adventure through breath-taking scenery in the countryside through Scout Programs, Company Outings, Horse Camps, Yoga Retreats, Special Seasonal Events, Sunset and Moonlight Rides, and of course Trail Rides! Millbrook Trail Rides 8078 Whitfield Road Newark, IL 60541 www.millbrooktrailrides.com (630) 777-9308 Hours: Weather Dependent Price $: Starting at $40 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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Healing Gardens Will Be Open to The Public October 13 For Enjoyment of Perennial Gardens in Wooded Setting October Opening is from 11am–4pm ST. CHARLES–Healing Gar-dens, a two-acre expanse of woodland and perennial gardens on Stone Hill Farm off Dean Street in Saint Charles, today announced its last scheduled Sunday opening date for the 2024 sea-son would be Sunday, October 13 from 11 am - 4 pm. The gardens are open to the public on set dates for the purpose of enjoying the natural wooded setting and perennial gardens. The ad-mission cost is $5 per person and $10 per family, call for discounted group rates. In solidarity and to honor the journey, cancer survivors are always free. Donations of time or money for upkeep are welcome. Healing Gardens is cultivated and hosted by Deborah Marqui owner of Stone Hill Farm with her husband Buzz Marqui. Ms. Marqui finds great restoration of spirit in her gardens and property and wants to share that with the public for their own rejuvenation. “Come and immerse yourself in the transformation of Nature into the rich colors of fall. There is still time to pick a bouquet of flowers with numerous colors of mums, summer blooms and fall foliage,” said Ms. Marqui. For a small donation visitors can pick their own bouquet of flowers to take home, jars and scissors provided. Something New for the October Opening! For your enjoyment, from 11:30am to 12:30pm the Threshold Choir will join us in the gardens! This choir of 5 women will walk quietly through the Healing Gardens singing a-cappella, brief gentle songs of comfort and healing. Many songs contain poetic words, chants, and references to na-ture. Guests to the gardens can also request a 'song bath' which is being surrounded by a circle of women singing, as prayer, words of comfort and healing in gentle harmony. The October 13 opening will offer an optional out-door, gentle Yoga In The Garden class (weather permitting) from 1pm–2pm taught by Felicia Schmid 500E-RYT. Ease stress and tension, relax muscles, increase circulation, or just pamper yourself with a day in beautiful gardens! She is qualified to work with students of all levels. Please bring a mat, bottled water and any other props that bring you comfort. Wear layers and dress for the weather. Your class fee ($20) also offers you admission to enjoy the grounds both before and after class. Pre-registration is required through Asanas & More Yoga’s Workshops and Events Page at www.asanasyoga.com no later than 1 hour prior to the start of class. Full Payment through Zelle at (630) 269-8696 secures your spot. Please con-tact Felicia via email asanasyoga@comcast.net or phone/text (630) 269-8696 if you have any questions. www.healinggardensatstonehillfarm.com VIEW MORE CHARITY-INSPIRED FEATURES www.GlancerMagazine.com/caring-and-sharingHealing Gardens at Stone Hill Farm is Two Acres of Perennial Gardens in a Beautiful, Wooded Setting in St. Charles, IllinoisCARING + SHARINGGlancer Magazine • OCTOBER 2024 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 27

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28 • WESTERN SUBURBS • OCTOBER 2024 • Glancer Magazine FALL 2024 Lantern Walk in Downtown Batavia October 3 EMBRACE THE MAGIC OF FALL Enjoy an enchanting evening at the Autumn Lantern Walk! Wander a beautifully illuminated path throughout Downtown Bata-via and immerse yourself in the cozy charm of the season. This charming Midwestern town transforms into a delightful fall wonderland, making it the perfect destination for an autumn out-ing. The journey begins at Wilson Street Mercantile or Hearth & Hammer, where the glow of lanterns lights the way through Bata-via's vibrant streets. As you stroll, discover the town’s hidden gems — each offering its own unique magic. Indulge in the offerings of Arlo.Hendrix and the Batavia Board-walk Shops for one-of-a-kind finds. For history buffs, the Batavia Depot Museum provides a fascinating glimpse into the past. If you're looking for a fresh look, Beardsgaard Barbers offers expert grooming in a rustic setting. Savor the flavors of fall at Bocaditos or the Flyleaf Bakery Cafe, where every bite is a warm embrace of the season. Hearth & Hammer and New Moon Vegan cater to both coffee lovers and plant-based food enthusiasts, respectively. Dive into creativity at Mojo Creations, and explore captivating reads at Pretty Pages. The evening isn't complete without a visit to Red Hive Market and Urban Apothecary & Fat Sam's for Pets, where treasures await discovery. Conclude your night with a delightful dinner at Sidecar Supper Club or a refreshing brew at Sturdy Shelter Brewing. In Downtown Batavia, the spirit of fall is not just a season — it’s an experience. SIP, SHOP, EXPLORE, and IMMERSE yourself in the magic that makes this town a must-visit autumn destination. Participating Businesses: - Arlo.Hendrix - Batavia Boardwalk Shops - Batavia Depot Museum - Beardsgaard Barbers - Bocaditos - Flyleaf Bakery Cafe - Hearth & Hammer - Mojo Creations - New Moon Vegan - Pretty Pages - Red Hive Market - Sidecar Supper Club - Sturdy Shelter Brewing - Thorabella's - Urban Apothecary & Fat Sam's for Pets - 63rd St. Apothecary SIP, SHOP, EXPLORE, IMMERSE www.downtownbatavia.com/event/autumn-lantern-walkLanternwalkDOWNTOWN BATAvia

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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 Gallery32 • WESTERN SUBURBS • OCTOBER 2024 • Glancer Magazine

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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 Gallery34 • WESTERN SUBURBS • OCTOBER 2024 • Glancer Magazine

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36 • WESTERN SUBURBS • OCTOBER 2024 • Glancer Magazine Secret North Shore–Chicago: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure by Ellen Shubart CHICAGO–A lifelong Chicagoan, Ellen Shubart has worked as a teacher, a journalist, and a sustainable city planning advocate. A histo-rian by training, with master’s degrees in US history and historic pres-ervation, she is also the author of What’s With Chicago?; Chicago: An Illustrated Timeline; Glencoe, Illinois; and Taylor Street: Chicago’s Little Italy. In retirement, she is a docent at the Chicago Architecture Center. Driving north from Chicago opens up the wonderland known as the North Shore, a string of remarkable suburban areas, each with its own story and yet all bound together by rail lines, highways, and a similar background. While most of the area is known for its tree-lined streets, large, single-family homes, and quaint downtowns, hidden along the way are unusual sites and spots that elicit responses like, “Wow, I didn’t know that was there.” The book looks at those places that are weird in that they are different, odd or even ghostly (see Lake Bluff ghosts, Edens Expressway); won-derful, beautiful, awesome or cultural (see Lake Forest Presbyterian Church Tiffany Windows, Baha’i Temple, Mormon Temple); or obscure, unknown or hidden in plain view (see Great American Train Robbery or Evanston’s Thayer Ave. Garage Door art gallery). The author has added a section on Natural, including prairie remnants of the past, hiking and biking trails, not to mention a fishing hole, and gardens (see Skokie La-goons, Kent Fuller Air Station Prairie, Jens Jensen Park, Shakespeare Garden). Hop in the car, grab a lunch of famous hot dogs, pancakes, or burgers, and start your journey with Secret North Shore–Chicago to discover the different, the weird, and the obscure. Enjoy the ride. LITERAARRYYlocalKNOW A LOCAL AUTHOR? editorial@glancermagazine.com

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SPOOKTACULAR All Hallows Eve and Howlin’ at the Moon Don’t Miss these Fun & Unique Events Happening at Naper Settlement NAPERVILLE–Naper Settlement is the place to be this spooky season! Magic, monsters, and mythical entertainment will be summoned on the grounds of Naper Settlement during All Hallows Eve for families with children 16 and under on Oc-tober 18-19. Come as you are or wear a costume (no masks or weapons) and overcome your fears with a lineup of Hallo-ween-themed outdoor activities, art, and performances! On October 25-26, enjoy thrilling performances and attractions at Howlin’ at the Moon, a Halloween bash for adults (21+)! Howl along to live music, feast your fangs into food and drinks at the Food Truck Graveyard and BOOze Bar, and enjoy one-of-a-kind Halloween-themed activities including a costume contest, spine-chilling art displays and photo experiences, and more! For more information and tickets, visit online. www.napersettlment.org/events AUTUMN ON THE GO38 • WESTERN SUBURBS • OCTOBER 2024 • Glancer Magazine

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GIVING BACK Sleep Out Saturday Join Bridge Communities’ Sleep Out Saturday and Make a Difference for Families Facing Homelessness GLEN ELLYN–On Saturday, November 2, hundreds of DuPage residents will give up their beds for a night outside to transform lives, Sleep Out Saturday. Participating in Sleep Out Saturday is a powerful way to stand with families facing homelessness and show you care. By giving up their bed for one night, participants ensure that families in our community facing homelessness will sleep safely in their Bridge home. To kick off Sleep Out Saturday 2024, a kickoff rally will be held in partnership with the College of DuPage at the north lot of their Culinary and Hospitality Center on November 2 at 6:30-8 p.m. Participants and the public are invited to attend. The rally will feature live entertainment, prizes and giveaways, the moving story of a Bridge client, food, and special guest speaker, Diane Nilan, family homelessness advocate and author of "The Three Melissas."AUTUMN ON THE GO40 • WESTERN SUBURBS • OCTOBER 2024 • Glancer Magazine Sign up to sleep out or donate to Sleep Out Saturday participants today! www.sleepoutsaturday.org

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DOWNERS GROVE Welcoming New Businesses Downtown Downers Grove DOWNERS GROVE–The variety of small businesses, amazing owners and community support make downtown Downers Grove the destina-tion it is today. Fall will welcome Mud and Easel Pottery Studio to the downtown area. October 1-October 25 there’s a Pumpkin Scavenger Hunt at partici-pating hot spots. Find the pumpkins hiding in downtown Downers Grove businesses. Identify its unique characteristic, fill out the form & turn it in for a prize. Adults can be entered into a drawing for a chance to win a $50 Downtown Downers Grove Gift Card. The Annual Halloween Window Painting hosted by Downtown Downers Grove in conjunction with Rotary Club of Downers Grove will be held on October 26, 9am-12pm. The Downers Grove Historical So-ciety will host the Living Cemetery, 10am-12pm. On Sunday, October 27 the DG Noon Lions Club will host the Annual Halloween Fest and Costume Contest in Fishel Park 12pm-1pm. The downtown busi-nesses will host trick-or-treating on October 27, 1-3pm. The many restaurants and cafes can please every taste bud. www.downtowndg.orgAUTUMN ON THE GO44 • WESTERN SUBURBS • OCTOBER 2024 • Glancer Magazine

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AUTUMN ON THE GOGlancer Magazine • OCTOBER 2024 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 43FUN FOR ALL AGES Pumpkin Weekends at Blackberry Farm AURORA–Every fall, just about the time Mother Nature starts to change her outfit, historical Blackberry Farm and its natural beauty plays host to Pumpkin Weekends – a popular, monthlong event for families to celebrate the season and add memories to the digital scrapbook. Pumpkin Weekends are held every Saturday and Sunday in October, along with Columbus Day, at Blackberry – the Fox Valley Park District’s living his-tory museum, located at 100 S. Barnes Rd. in Aurora. Guests can roam the 54-year-old park, festively decorated in the spirit of pumpkin season, and enjoy unlimited rides on the carousel, hay wagon, ponies, paddle boats and replica steam-engine train. A picnic area will have pumpkins for purchase and an assortment of decorating materials will be provided. www.blackberryfarm.info october fun!

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AUTUMN ON THE GODOWNTOWN 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 • OCTOBER 2024 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 45

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46 • WESTERN SUBURBS • OCTOBER 2024 • Glancer Magazine LIVE LIFE ACTIVELY Adult Activity Center ST. CHARLES–Pull a chair up to the table of just one of the many drop-in activities offered and find new community connections at the St. Charles Park District’s Adult Activity Center. Located inside the Potta-watomie Community Center at 8 North Avenue along the banks of the tranquil Fox River, this dedicated space for ages 50+ provides three spa-cious, comfortable rooms for quiet reading, computers with Internet ac-cess and a place to play cards, watch movies or join a billiards game. With a reasonably-priced annual membership of only $15 for residents and $23 for nonresidents, a variety of meaningful and fun leisure time activities await. Membership includes discounts for specific programs and events, a quarterly newsletter featuring upcoming activities, free or low cost weekly drop-in programs and access to an expansive Little Li-brary. While most members come from St. Charles, about 40% are from the neighboring towns of Geneva, Elburn, Batavia, South Elgin and Campton Hills. Whether it’s socializing with others on a trip to an area attraction, partic-ipating in a health & fitness class or attending an educational program, staying active and engaged in a community lifestyle can mean the dif-ference between aging successfully and aging prematurely. Open 7 days a week, here’s your opportunity to LIVE LIFE ACTIVELY! /www.stcparks.org/aac/ AUTUMN ON THE GO

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AUTUMN ON THE GOGlancer Magazine • OCTOBER 2024 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 47LIVE MUSIC IN SHERIDAN Sheridan Elevator WHERE HOMETOWN CHARM MEETS LIVE MUSIC AND UNIQUE DINING SHERIDAN–Formerly a grain elevator, Sheridan Elevator has transformed into a popular destination 35 miles outside Naper-ville, drawing visitors with its exceptional food, live music, and outdoor ambiance. The venue's rustic appeal and welcoming atmosphere capture the essence of country charm, making it a favorite spot for Chicagoland destination seekers. What truly distinguishes Sheridan Elevator is its rich history and thoughtful renovation by Ron Schmoker (pictured), envisioning a space for community gatherings and lasting memories. From vibrant music performances to engaging themed events, this venue offers diverse experiences for all guests. Experience the warmth and inclusivity of Sheridan Elevator, a cherished gem in Chicagoland's social landscape, reflecting Ron Schmoker's vision of hospitality and community spirit. Stay updated on menu specials, live music schedules, and events by following Sheridan Elevator on Facebook. www.facebook.com/sheridanelevator

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48 • WESTERN SUBURBS • OCTOBER 2024 • Glancer Magazine TRENDY TRAVELERTrendY Spooky Adventures Await in Salem This Halloween Season SALEM, MA–Imagine wandering through cobblestone streets adorned with pumpkins and lanterns, where the whispers of history and the spirit of Halloween come to life. Welcome to Salem, Massachusetts, a town that promises an unforgetta-ble Halloween experience. Whether you're a travel enthusi-ast, a history buff, a Halloween fanatic, or a resident of West Suburban Chicago looking for an exciting getaway, Salem is the perfect destination. In this blog post, you'll discover the rich history of Salem, tips for planning your trip, must-see sights, and insider advice for making the most of your Hallo-ween adventure. Unveiling the Past: Salem's historical significance stems from the infamous witch trials of 1692, a dark period when paranoia and superstition led to the execution of 20 innocent people. This history has deeply influenced the town, making it a focal point for those interested in understanding early American history and the consequences of mass hysteria. Experience a Hauntingly Good Time in SalemTraveler

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Glancer Magazine • OCTOBER 2024 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 49TRENDY TRAVELERHow Halloween Took Over: Over the years, Salem has embraced its haunted past, transform-ing Halloween into a month-long celebration. The town's eerie history and atmospheric setting make it an ideal backdrop for Halloween festivities, attracting visitors from all over the world who are eager to indulge in spooky activities and his-torical tours. A Town Transformed: During October, Salem becomes a bustling hub of Halloween activities, with haunted houses, ghost tours, costume parades, and themed events. The entire town is decked out in Halloween decorations, creating an immersive experience that blends historical intrigue with modern-day fun. Salem Witch Museum: This iconic museum offers an in-depth look at the witch trials through exhibits and reenact-ments. It's a must-visit for understanding Salem's historical context. House of the Seven Gables: Explore this historic mansion that inspired Nathaniel Hawthorne's famous novel. Guided tours reveal fascinating stories about the house and its former inhabitants. Witch Trials Tours: Multiple guided tours are available, each offering unique insights into the witch trials. Options range from walking tours through historic sites to evening ghost tours that add an extra layer of spookiness. Daytime Fun: During the day, visit the Salem Maritime Na-tional Historic Site, take a stroll through the picturesque Chestnut Street District, or enjoy family-friendly activities at Salem Common. Nighttime Thrills: As night falls, immerse yourself in haunted happenings, from ghost hunts to theatrical performances that bring Salem's ghostly legends to life. Dining and Shopping Unique Eats: Salem boasts a variety of dining options, from cozy cafes to upscale restaurants. Enjoy seafood at Finz Sea-food & Grill, indulge in farm-to-table delights at Ledger, or grab a quick bite at Gulu-Gulu Cafe. Halloween-Themed Shops: Explore local shops offering a wide range of Halloween-themed items, from cos-tumes and decorations to spooky souvenirs. Witch City Consignment and Coven's Cottage are must-visit spots for unique finds. Insider Tips for a Mem-orable Visit To avoid long lines and crowded attractions, plan your visits to popular sites early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Weekdays are generally less busy than weekends. For a 3-day visit, consider the following itinerary: • Day 1: Arrive in Salem, check into your accommodation, and explore the downtown area. Visit the Salem Witch Museum and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. • Day 2: Start with a guided witch trials tour, then visit the House of the Seven Gables. Spend the afternoon shopping and exploring Salem's historic sites. In the evening, join a ghost tour or haunted house event. • Day 3: Visit the Salem Maritime National Historic Site, enjoy a leisurely lunch, and participate in any remaining activities or events on your list before heading home. Halloween in Salem is an experience like no other, combining historical intrigue with festive fun. Whether you're drawn by the allure of the witch trials, the vibrant Halloween celebra-tions, or the charming New England setting, Salem has some-thing to offer everyone. Ready to plan your trip? Share your Salem experiences or start planning your visit today to im-merse yourself in the magic of Halloween in one of America's most historically rich towns. For more travel inspiration and destination guides, explore our related blog posts. By following this guide, you'll be well-prepared to make the most of your visit to Salem, Massachusetts during the Hallo-ween season. Enjoy your spooky adventure! www.salem.org

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Glancer Magazine • OCTOBER 2024 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 53HOME 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 Why You Should Schedule Your Air Duct Cleaning Fall is an ideal time for duct cleaning especially as you prepare your home for the colder months ahead. As you prepare to use your heating system more frequently, cleaning your ducts ensures your HVAC system operates efficiently and circulates clean air throughout your home. Air duct cleaning is an often-overlooked aspect of home maintenance, but it plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy and efficient home environment for you and your family. Your HVAC system's ducts are responsible for circulating air throughout your home, and over time, they can accumulate dust, allergens, and other debris. Many homeowners have never cleaned their air ducts with them being out of sight out of mind. Fall is also a common time for seasonal allergies. Regular air duct cleaning can lead to significant bene-fits for your health, comfort, and even your wallet. Removing dust, mold spores, and other allergens from your ducts can help reduce allergy symptoms, making your home more comfortable during the fall and winter. Here's some reasons why you should get your air ducts cleaned: 1. Improved Indoor Air Quality 2. HVAC Efficiency 3. Reduced Allergens and Irritants 4. Extended HVAC System Lifespan 5. Prevention of Mold Growth Right now, you can get 25% off your Duct Cleaning Service with our promotion. Contact McNally’s HVAC today at 630.363.9067 to schedule your whole house air duct cleaning and breathe easier this fall. McNally’s Heating and Cooling is a trusted provider of HVAC services 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 Heating 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 LOCAL54 • WESTERN SUBURBS • OCTOBER 2024 • Glancer Magazine

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lliissttiinnggNew Orleans-Style Architecture Featured on HGTV "Dream House" and the Chicago Sun-Times, discover the 5-Bedroom, 5-Bathroom masterpiece. The exterior of 930 S Gables Blvd in Wheaton, Illinois, is a stunning display of New Orleans-style architecture. The home is built with Southern charm, featuring a paved walkway that leads to an inviting veranda adorned with finished ceilings and low-maintenance composite flooring. The front entrance, highlighted by classic gas lanterns, sets a sophisticated tone. Located in a desirable neighborhood, the property is close to top-rated schools, offering both conven-ience and an enriching community atmosphere. (630) 667-3333 Presented by: Lance Kammes Brokered by RE/MAX Suburban $1,099,000 930 S Gables Blvd, Wheaton 5 bed / 5 bath MILLION DOLLAR REAL ESTATE56 • WESTERN SUBURBS • OCTOBER 2024 • Glancer Magazine

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An Expansive & Beautiful Interior The interior of 930 S Gables Blvd in Wheaton, Illinois, offers an expansive 5,000 square foot layout that epitomizes luxury and elegance. This home features a gourmet kitchen equipped with high-end appliances, a commercial-grade stove, and a walk-in pantry. The primary suite is a sanctuary with a spa-like bathroom that includes a heated bubble massage tub and dual shower-heads. Noteworthy design elements include herringbone hardwood floors, faux leather wall treatments, and plantation shutters, all contributing to the home's sophisticated ambiance. The finished basement is an entertainer's delight, boasting a theater room complete with surround sound, a projector, and a kitchenette, ensuring a perfect setting for gatherings and relaxation. REAL ESTATEGlancer Magazine • OCTOBER 2024 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 57

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Lucas and Lisa Fabbri Chose The Abbington for their Beautiful Celebration, Here’s What they Loved LISLE–Born and raised in Naperville, and a graduate of Naperville Central High School, Lucas Fabbri went on to become a Project Engineer for Aptiv PLC. After being in-troduced to Lisa Higgins, a Chicago resident and Pedia-tric Nurse at Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago, he treated her to a Cubs game at Wrigley Field. The date was a grand slam and the pair courted for the next five years, hitting it out of the ballpark with a proposal at the Basilica of Santa Maria Del Mar in Barcelona, Spain. Lucas and Lisa selected the recently renovated Abbing-ton Distinctive Banquets in Glen Ellyn as the backdrop for their wedding. The attentive staff took care of every detail including staging the outdoor patio area for pho-tography, hosting the ceremony on site, and creating a delicious candy bar, espresso bar, martini bar, and de-tailed sweets table. “Since our two large German shepherds could not attend our wedding, we decided to bring them in other little ways,” Lisa adds. “We had cocktail napkins with their faces on it, as well as little German shepherd dog figures on our wedding cake pretending to take a bite out of it; but, the best surprise was Luke getting his tux custom made with our dogs’ (Lincoln & Lala) faces inside it!” Building their new life together in Lisle, the newlyweds believe the secret to a successful marriage is to marry your best friend and continuously be open, honest, and communicate everything! -Kristen Kucharski, Photos Submitted LOVE STORY LOCAL COUPLE SHARES THEIR SPECIAL DAY60 • WESTERN SUBURBS • OCTOBER 2024 • Glancer Magazine WEDDING 2024

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GLEN ELLYN At The Abbington, we believe in making your dreams come true. That’s why we go out of our way to make sure your special day is magnificent. Take one look at our impressive architecture and stunning sur-roundings and you will see why we’ve been named "The Jewel of the Western Suburbs." Add that to our finely appointed ball-rooms, full service staff and world class cuisine and you'll find yourself in a celebration that is sure to be the portrait of perfec-tion! Our staff dressed in black tie attire, greets you at our entrance in our spacious and elegant foyer, then escorts you to your ball-room. Right before your very eyes, we open the doors, and you experience our ambiance: beautiful table settings, white glove service, dazzling chandeliers, marble bars, gleaming maple wood dance-floors, flowing full-length linens, and culinary mas-terpieces soon to be enjoyed by your guests. Your Event. Our Unparalleled Service. Abbington Distinctive Banquets www.abbingtonbanquets.com 3S002 Il Rte 53, Glen Ellyn • (630) 942-8600Glancer Magazine • OCTOBER 2024 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 63

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NAPERVILLE LuxeSkin Med Spa is a 5-star rated luxury spa in the heart of Naperville that specializes in non-surgical aesthetic procedures to help you look beautiful and feel confident in your own skin. Our expert providers offer education and a personalized one-on-one approach that is focused on your unique skincare goals. We provide free consultations and treatment plans. Services include Botox/Dysport, filler, Sculptra, Weight Loss Shots/Medications, HydraFacial, CoolSculpting, IV Therapies, Chemical Peels, Acne Treatment, Laser Hair Removal, Microneedling, PRP, Lash & Brow Services, Waxing, and much more! Visit us at luxeskinmedspa.com and @luxeskinmedspa. We have a private parking lot and entrance for our clients. We look forward to serving you! LuxeSkin Med Spa luxeskinmedspa.com (630) 544-2050 620 N Washington St. Naperville, IL Glancer Magazine • OCTOBER 2024 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 65

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OSWEGO Venue 5126 is a venue like no other in the Chicago suburbs. With our 7 acre property overlooking 300 acres of farmland, you won’t find this kind of midwest beauty and privacy anywhere else. With our wedding coordinator, in-house florist, stylist, and DJ, our team offers all you need to make your dream wedding a reality, while taking off the pressure and stresses of wedding planning. We are here with you every step of the way to ensure you can relax and enjoy your engagement! Venue 5126 offers three ceremony locations while only booking one wedding a day so we can focus solely on you. We have 2 outdoor locations, The Pergola and The Field and one indoor loca-tion, The Barn, that offers an indoor/outdoor experience. After your ceremony you and your guests will enjoy cocktail hour in the barn, and then move into our attached 3-peak tent for dinner. After dinner you will dance the night away with your friends and family back in the barn and soak up the last moments of your special day. Venue 5126 www.venue5126.comGlancer Magazine • OCTOBER 2024 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 67

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AURORA The Blackberry Farm wedding team is excited to create an ex-perience which delivers a lifetime of memories for you and your guests. Our one-of-a-kind setting features country elegance and personalized service that caters to your needs – all at a value that can’t be matched. Planning the big day is a piece of cake. We’ll remove any stress, answer all your questions, and anticipate and communicate every detail in advance of your event. Our space is flexible and beautifully appointed, featuring rustic touches and country charm amidst Blackberry Farm’s historic backdrop. With a convenient location and ample parking, The Barn at Blackberry Farm is the perfect showcase for your big day. As you browse information regarding your wedding, please note that ALL packages include table and chairs at no extra cost. We hope to extend every hospitality to you along your decision-mak-ing process and are here to answer any questions or schedule a tour at your request. SPECIAL FEATURES Picturesque locations throughout Blackberry Farm, Outdoor Ceremony Options, Whiskey Barrel Cocktail Tables, Rustic Bar, Outdoor Patio and Lawn Space The Barn at Blackberry Farm Aurora • www.blackberryfarm.com/wine-food/dinner/barnGlancer Magazine • OCTOBER 2024 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 71

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Yellow Bird Books is Celebrating 1st Anniversary Stop by for a Full Day of Celebration on October 19 AURORA–Aurora’s only independent bookstore, Yellow Bird Books will celebrate its first birthday with a day-long party on Saturday, Oc-tober 19. The celebration will offer a full day of fun, and will officially begin at 11am with storytime and a visit from Rory, Aurora Public Library Dis-trict’s fox mascot. Balloon animals will follow from noon to 2pm, and then face painting at 3pm Live music by Ian Jake Robleza and mocktails will take center stage from 6pm to 8pm. Visitors can enjoy specials, giveaways, a selfie station, and a make and take book-mark activity throughout the day. “I’ve always loved books and dreamed about owning a bookstore,” said Karen Nicholas, who opened the bookstore last fall at 34 S. Stolp Ave. in downtown Aurora. Nicholas, a former teacher, said her dream came true when she and a friend learned that the perfect spot was available in the George Grant Elmslie-designed, prairie-style Keystone building on Stolp Avenue. The building’s design inspires the bookstore’s inviting decor, and led to a recent architectural tour around downtown hosted by the bookstore. They’ve also hosted storytime, book signings, book craft classes, and a new bi-monthly poetry group. The bookstore recently partnered with actors from Paramount The-atre’s BOLD Series for readings of Peter and the Starcatcher. They also work with local artists on themed First Fridays events organized by resident artist Lisa Manning, who creates many of the storefront window designs and painted an oak tree mural for the bookstore’s children’s corner. “As we spread the love of books and reading, we also try to support the importance of the arts in our community,” Nicholas said. For more information on the free event or the bookstore, visit www.yellowbirdbooksaurora.com UNIQUE IN SUBURBIAin SuburbiaUNIQUE72 • WESTERN SUBURBS • OCTOBER 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 • OCTOBER 2024 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 75

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Kid StuffLumenaura INAUGURAL EVENT AURORA–The City of Aurora’s in-augural illuminated art experience will light areas of downtown Au-rora Oct 1-Nov1. Featuring im-mersive light-and-sound-based installations, magical projection mapping, interactive street art, live entertainment, food & bever-age options,& more. ww.your-voice.aurora.il.us/lumenaura Fox Fall Fest 2024 HAPPENING OCTOBER 6 Enjoy live music, savor delicious offerings from local food vendors, and explore a variety of artisan crafts. The festival offers family-friendly en-tertainment, ensuring fun for all ages. This year's event features unique attractions, including a special evening light show. With its festive at-mosphere and engaging activities, the Fall Fest is a must-visit celebra-tion for both locals and tourists. 76 • WESTERN SUBURBS • OCTOBER 2024 • Glancer Magazine Teal Pumpkin Project Place a Teal Pumpkin on Your Doorstep It’s a simple way to make trick-or-treating safer and more inclu-sive for the one in 13 children living with food allergies, and many others impacted by intol-erances and other conditions. Placing a teal pumpkin on your doorstep signals that, in addition to candy, you offer non-food trin-kets and treats that are safe for all trick or treaters. Help us make this Halloween one to re-member!

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KID STUFFFun at DuPage Children’s Museum ALL ABOARD FOR FALL FUN! NAPERVILLE–At DuPage Children’s Museum (DCM) we have the equation for a great day: Playing + Learning = Serious Fun! October Highlights: • All aboard the DCM Express – this mini pop-up experience featuring trains will be stationed in the Museum for a limited time. Put on your conductor's hat and come play! • The month of October is the last chance for Half-Price Play Friday Nights; we’re open until 8:00pm. Pay less admission and have all the fun! • Pumpkin Palooza is Saturday, October 28 from 9am–2pm. Come in costume and celebrate the season. There’s always something fun going on at DCM. Check out the Family Fun page on DCM’s website for story times, Tiny Great Performances, and special events. Plan your visit today. www.dupagechildrens.org adventure awaitsGlancer Magazine • OCTOBER 2024 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 77

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KID STUFFDANCING IN ST. CHARLES 3rd Street Dance ST. CHARLES–In the heart of historic downtown St. Charles, 3rd Street Dance stands as a testament to the vision of owner and di-rector, Alice Williams. Williams grew up in St. Charles, and 27 years ago, embarked on a mission to create a non-competitive dance stu-dio that inspires students to believe in themselves, spread joy and build lifelong friendships. It’s a home where, as she says, “Kids can be kids, have fun, and find their best friend.” At 3rd Street Dance, students embrace the beauty of dance without worrying about external pressures. As the only local St. Charles studio affiliated with the national organization More Than Just Great Dancing®, they takes pride in providing a quality curriculum and a safe and nurturing environment for its young dancers to grow and flourish. Dance has the power to bring about positive change in a com-munity. 3rd Street Dance give back, organizing charity events and fundraisers, using passion for dance to raise awareness for local causes. These experiences teach young dancers the value of em-pathy, compassion, and the joy of helping others. The studio’s non-competitive approach to dance has allowed count-less children to discover the joy of movement and creativity without the fear of judgment. As Williams continues to champion the belief that “kids should be kids for as long as humanly possible,” the 3rd Street Dance legacy lives on by offering a variety of classes focus ing on fun, learning, and growth. Join this exciting journey of devel-opment, creativity, and friendship at 3rd Street Dance. www.3streetdance.comdance!Glancer Magazine • OCTOBER 2024 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 79

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BUSINESS CELEBRATING LOCAL Marissa Bright PR Promotes Local Businesses AURORA–Celebrate what you do. Let Marissa Bright PR be your big-gest cheerleader. This local agency will get the word out about your business or event, making sure your event sparkles. Their team special-izes in public relations and event management for small businesses and nonprofits in the Fox Valley area. They are here to help your work or your event shine its bright-est. Owner Marissa Amoni and her team of star marketing and design profes-sionals will craft a personalized plan based on your needs. You’ve worked hard, and now it’s time to share it with the community. They can work with you on launching a new product, boosting your expo-sure, or celebrating a milestone. Marissa Bright PR has worked with Wyckwood House, Warehouse 55, Yellow Bird Books, Aurora Green-fest, Marie Wilkinson Food Pantry, The Neighbor Project, and others to grow their brand or to boost their event. Connect with Marissa on Instagram @marissashinesbright or email marissabrightpr@gmail.com Glancer Magazine • OCTOBER 2024 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 81

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4. Monster Bash A monster-themed party is always a frightful and fun hit. Encourage friends and family members to dress up as their favor-ite monsters, and decorate the house with monster-themed decorations. Serve up monster-inspired treats like monster claw cupcakes and spooky eyeball beverages.4.2. Pumpkin Carving Party Host a pumpkin carving party where everyone can par-ticipate and show off their crea-tivity. You can even have a contest for the best designs. Serve pumpkin-themed treats throughout the party and request that everyone come wearing their favorite pump-kin-inspired outfit. 3. Haunted House Transform your home into a haunted house. You can assign each family member a room to dec-orate and create a spooktacular walkthrough experience. Remember to set your lighting just right and add some larger-than-life decor props via DIY websites and Pinterest.1. Spooky Movie Marathon Turn your living room into a home theater and host a family-friendly Halloween movie night. Include clas-sics like "Hocus Pocus", "The Nightmare Before Christmas", and "Casper". Serve up popcorn balls and other creative treats in fun Halloween dishes. IT’S HALLOWEEN PARTY TIME! Three components to planning a great Halloween party include a fun theme, creative treats and exciting entertainment. Here are some fun party theme ideas with food & entertainment ideas to match. Remember, the main goal of any Halloween party is to have fun. Enjoy! HALLOWEEN PARTY THEMES TO LOVE2.1.3.82 • WESTERN SUBURBS • OCTOBER 2023 • Glancer Magazine

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6. Superhero vs Villains Not all Halloween parties have to be scary. A superhero vs villains theme can be a fun twist, especially for younger party goers. Guests can come dressed as their favorite characters and play fun superhero-inspired games while snacking on uniquely creative treats. 5. Witch’s Tea Party Organize a witch's tea party with spooky snacks and drinks. You could serve 'witch's brew' (green punch), 'bat wings' (chicken wings), and other fun, themed foods. Have one guests dress as the ‘witch of the evening’ and have her cast spells on guests and lead a variety of witch-inspired games. Use Tarot cards to scattered down the center of the table and black witches hats as centerpieces.5.7. Harry Potter Party A Harry Potter-themed party can be magical. You can set up different areas of your home to represent parts of Hogwarts, serve Butterbeer, and have a Sorting Hat ceremony. The mystical theme can provide for unique decor such as hanging witch hat lumi-naries, wands and so much more. Add cobwebs here, there and ev-erywhere to add some spooky flare. 7.6.Glancer Magazine • OCTOBER 2023 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 83