Glancer Magazine, September 2020

4 • WESTERN SUBURBS • SEPTEMBER 2020 • Glancer Magazine

AN APPLE A DAY

Mom Life, Homeschooling, Healthy Kids, Fall Fun & More!

This month we are celebrating September and that means back to

school. Though this looks very different than last year for so many fam-

ilies, including my own, it has most certainly been refreshing to see

the kids back in their routine. Two of my girls are on the hybrid schedule

and my special needs daughter, who is 10, is attending school all 5

days. It’s worrysome, but so far, it’s been a smooth transition. They love

being back, and we are hopeful things continue to progress to Phase

5 for Illinois. I will say that our school district has done a wonderful job

of creating a plan given the circumstances, and we are very thankful.

Throughout the pandemic many moms decided to start homeschooling,

and some picked up right where they left off last year. We feature some

of these amazing moms in our Cover Story this month. We also feature

7 Spectacular Enrichment Programs for Kids and

10 Trends Moms will Love, plus so much more!

We invite you to share these stories in social

media by visiting our website. While you’re

there, be sure to subscribe. Enjoy this issue

and as always, thanks so much for reading.

Lindy Kleivo

Publishing Director, West Suburban Area

lkleivo@glancermagazine.com

September 20

5 Hello From Glancer Magazine

7 Scene Around Suburbia

9 5 Things to Do

10 COVER Homeschool Moms

16 Autumn Farmer’s Markets

18 NEW! Best Neighbors EVER!

19 Special Needs News

20 Dining & Cocktails

22 10 Trends Moms Love

25 Literary Local

26 Friends of Prentice

28 Business of the Year 2020

30 NEW! Unique In Suburbia

32 Million Dollar Listing

34 To Give, To Inspire

36 Dental

37 Healthy Living

38 Fitness

39 Mom’s Little Black Book

41 Fabulous Family

42 Fall Shopping Around Town

44 Moms Black Book

50 Trendy Traveler

52 7 Spectacular In Enrichment

www.GlancerMagazine.com

TABLE OF CONTENTS

T E A M G L A N C E R

PUBLISHER

Glancer Magazine, Inc.

PUBLISHING DIRECTOR

Lindy Kleivo

EDITORIAL | Print + Digital

Kristen Kucharski Columnist / Writer

Mindy Kyle Columnist / Writer

Brianna Bartemeyer Features Writer

Stephanie Schmoker Dining Critic

Tiffany Schmoker Dining Critic

SALES / MARKETING

Lindy Kleivo Publishing Director

PHOTOGRAPHY

Mike Catuara Features Photographer

P U B L I C A T I O N S

GLANCER MAGAZINE

A West Suburban Chicago Lifestyle Magazine

Featuring the Best of West Suburban Chicago

for Communities In DuPage, Kane & Kendall

GLANCERMAGAZINE.COM

A Hyper-Local Daily Features Site Highlighting

On Trend Stories for Communities In DuPage,

Kane & Kendall

GLANCER GO-TO GUIDE

Highlighting Local On Trend Events + Deals for

For Communities In DuPage, Kane & Kendall

C O N T A C T U S

EDITORIAL

Press Releases, Local Events, Community News

editorial@glancermagazine.com

ADVERTISING

Digital Advertising + Local Marketing Solutions

advertising@glancermagazine.com

SUBSCRIPTIONS

Monthly Soft Version + Daily Digital

www.glancermagazine.com

Glancer Magazine, highlighting the best

of DuPage, Kane & Kendall Counties, is

produced by Glancer Magazine, Inc.

Glancer Magazine, GlancerMagazine.com.

You’ve Been Glanced and the Glancer

logo are registered trademarks of Glancer

and digital magazine reproduction in whole

or in part is strictly prohibited.

SEPTEMBER 2020 | Vol 19

An Apple a Day

This issue highlights healthy families and

healthy kids with a focus on mom life, back

to school, homeschooling, eLearning and

more! Also featuring fall real estate, dining

& cabaret, fall fun and more! Subscribe

today at www.GlancerMagazine.com

Glancer Magazine, Inc.

Glancer Magazine • AUGUST 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 5

SSEEPPTTEEMMBBEERR 22002200

6 • WESTERN SUBURBS • SEPTEMBER 2020 • Glancer Magazine

SCENE AROUND SUBURBIA

Glancer Magazine • AUGUST 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 7

scenearound

Suburbia

You’ve Been

Glanced!

Photos by Mike Catuara

More Event Photos Online

www.glancermagazine.com/scene-around-suburbia

Emily’s Parade, Celebrating 13! • Wheaton • Friday, August 13

Downtown Naperville Sidewalk Sale • August 2

8 • WESTERN SUBURBS • SEPTEMBER 2020 • Glancer Magazine

FALL 2020

5 Things to Do

1. Fall Color 5K Run and Walk

October 3 • Morton Arboretum

LISLE–Run a socially distant race at The Mor-

ton Arboretum on Saturday or Sunday, Oc-

tober 3 or 4, or virtually anywhere. No

matter when or where you run you will be

supporting the Arboretum's work to plant

and protect trees. Get the details and

www.mortonarb.org/

events/fall-color-5k-run-and-walk

4. Plan a New Kitchen, Basement or Bath

NAPERVILLE– Recognized as a premiere remodeling company,

with a 10,000 square foot showroom in Naperville, HomeWerks

has a beautiful online gallery of photos and ideas to help you plan

your next remodeling dream come true. Now’s a great time to

start planning your next kitchen, bath or basement project!

Family owned and operated since 1996, HomeWerks specializes

in full service remodeling. The kitchen and bath displays are in-

teractive, allowing visitors to experience many product features

first hand. With the focus of providing high quality products, pro-

fessional installation and exceptional customer service

HomeWerks Kitchen and Bath • www.myhomewerks.com

3. Celebrate Fall

Downtown Wheaton

WHEATON–There is so much to enjoy

Downtown Wheaton this season.

From dining outdoors under the Hale

Street tents, to taking the Architec-

tural Tour at DuPage Historical Mu-

seum, to shopping at fun

boutiques like Jeans and a Cute

Tops Shop and more!

www.downtownwheaton.com

2. Plan a Day on the Water

at the Paddleboat Quarry

NAPERVILLE–Enjoy some warm weather fun on the water at

the Naperville Park District’s Paddleboat Quarry! Choose from

a four-person paddleboat, one-person paddleboard or one- or

two-person kayak for 20-minute or 40-minute rentals. The

Paddleboat Quarry is open through September on non-school

days. Visit online for fees and more details.

www.napervilleparks.org/

paddleboatspaddleboardskayaking

5. St. Charles Jazz & Art Weekend

September 10-13 • 10am-5pm

ST. CHARLES–St. Charles Jazz Weekend is a four-day event that coordinates and

promotes live jazz music in different St. Charles establishments. An array of St.

Charles venues will take part in each year’s event featuring numerous jazz groups,

including Grammy award winning Saxophonist Frank Catalano. Enjoy 16 Venues

25 Jazz Performances, 31 Public Art Attractions www.stcjazzweekend.com

Glancer Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 9

HomeSchool

Moms

Mikaya Huggins of Sugar Grove

Although very pleased with Kaneland’s curriculum and efforts,

Mikaya’s pursuit of homeschooling her first grader (6) and kin-

dergartner (5), with a one year old (1) in the background

stems from the uncertainties, complications and risks associ-

ated with COVID-19.

Now in their sixth year operating the Sugar Grove Pumpkin

Farm, a wholesale and retail family business raising beef cat-

tle, chickens, goats, rabbits, barn cats, fish, two dogs and a

hedgehog, Mikaya knows that homeschooling will offer it’s

challenges while running a seasonal business and coordi-

nating with her husband that works full-time at the Township

Road District; but, she feels confident her background and

networking connections will prevail.

COVER STORY

by Kristen Kucharski

Photos Submitted

10 • WESTERN SUBURBS • SEPTEMBER 2020 • Glancer Magazine

Glancer Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 11

Moms

“I am currently working on a co-op with Alyssa De-

koker of Sugar Grove,” she says. “We were intro-

duced by our sons becoming best friends in Ms.

McDonnell’s Kindergarten class, then we both tran-

sitioned to homeschooling this year.

She formulated a very small group of homeschooling

mom’s and children, PreK-2nd grade. Together, we

are very excited to share advice, support, organize

STEM lessons and educational experiences while our

children benefit from small group socialization with

the use of Village Bible Church’s gymnasium.”

With plans to re-enroll with Kaneland after COVID-19

is effectively defeated, Mikaya’s day is structured to

match their ongoing curriculum and scheduled

breaks; and although choosing to remove their chil-

dren has been a heavy, difficult weight, she feels con-

fident homeschooling for now is best for their family.

COVER STORY

Amy Schlenbeckerof Naperville

Although homeschooling may be a new thought for many

families this year due to the pandemic, Amy has been teach-

ing her kids Danny (15) and Katie (14) for the past six years.

“Honestly, I was completely against it at the beginning. I had

all the typical "public school mom" questions - "How can I

teach my kids?", " How will they socialize?", "What about ex-

tracurricular activities?" "Prom?", "Can I deal with having my

kids around all the time?", Amy shares. “Since we started, I

have seen so many benefits. My daughter, who was behind

in a few subjects, quickly caught up because we were able

to tailor her curriculum to her needs. I see how we can use

real life to help us learn as well and we do field trips and

hands on learning to solidify what we have learned and en-

courage the love of learning.”

Amy has found there are many homeschool networks in the

Naperville area community that keep them connected to var-

ious events that provide age appropriate socialization as well

as organized curriculum-based field trips. There are also dif-

ferent ways to play sports as home schoolers, such as foot-

ball with Crossroads Christian Youth Center in Big Rock, and

some high schools allow you to play sports with them if you

are enrolled part time.

Serving on the board for the football team, as well as the Ac-

tivities Chair for Boy Scouts, and actively volunteering with

Harvest New Beginnings Food Pantry in Oswego keeps the

Schlenbecker kids balanced with social, emotional, and civic

skills.

Homeschooling allows for individualized education plans;

flexible schedules, as well as varied learning spaces such

as the kitchen table, outside patio, couches, trampoline, you

name it; however, also comes with the expected normal

challenges of teaching your own kids.

All in all, Amy has found that the benefits of watching her

children learn and grow far outweigh any negatives and

looks forward to an exciting new school year of new oppor-

tunities.

HOMESCHOOL MOMS

14 • WESTERN SUBURBS • SEPTEMBER 2020 • Glancer Magazine

HOMESCHOOL MOMS

Glancer Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 15

AAUUTTUUMMNN

ffaarrmmeerr’’ss mmaarrkkeettss

NAPERVILLE GLEN ELLYN LISLE WHEATON AURORA BATAVIA GENEVA SUGAR GROVE OSWEGO YORKVILLE

FARMER’S MARKETS 2020

OPEN AIR MARKETS INVITE YOU OUT TO ENJOY FARM FRESH DELIGHTS & MORE

It's time to attend community open-air markets, also known as farmers markets. With many towns

bringing unique selections to their market, we encourage our readers to visit those located outside

of their neighborhood as well. There are so many surprises you’ll love! Open air markets are a great

way to celebrate summer....while shopping at the same time. Enjoy!

16 • WESTERN SUBURBS • SEPTEMBER 2020 • Glancer Magazine

DDUUPPAAGGEE

NAPERVILLE – 95th Street Farmers Market

Every Thursday, June 4-September 24, 3:7pm

95th Street Library Parking Lot, 3015 Cedar Glade Drive

www.napervilleparks.org/farmersmarket

Join the Naperville Park District and Naperville Public Library for

the annual 95th Street Farmers Market located in south Naper-

ville. Shop homegrown offerings, locally grown fruits and veggies,

homemade breads and jams and much more from a wide variety

of local farmers and vendors.

GLEN ELLYN – Glen Ellyn French Market

546 Duane Street

Sundays, 8am-1pm

www.bensidounusa.com

Visit downtown Glen Ellyn for locally grown produce, organic

meats, fresh flowers, baked goods, jewelry and much more. This

French Market is well known throughout the community and res-

idents love it. Each week you’ll have a chance to meet a local

Not-For-Profit at the French Market.

LISLE – Lisle French Market

Downtown Lisle at Garfield & Rt 53

Saturdays 8am-1pm, June 20–September 26

www.bensidounusa.com

This community treasure features fresh produce, plants, flowers,

bakery items and more

WHEATON – Wheaton French Market

Downtown Wheaton at Main and Liberty - Inside & Outside

Saturdays 8am-2pm, April 13-November 9

www.bensidounusa.com

A French styled open air market where you will find fresh local

produce, bread, cheese, meat,flowers, artisan foods & crafts, and

gifts for the home.

KKAANNEE

AURORA - Aurora Farmer’s Market

Water Street • Parking at Benton & Water Street

Saturdays 8am-12pm, June 27–October 17

www.enjoyaurora.com

Support local farmers, grab a bite to eat and enjoy beautiful down-

town Aurora. This year, the market will be following social distance

rules and everyone will be required to wear a mask. Please stay

home if you are sick. Vendors will handle products until sale.

Please note- no eating on site will be permitted.

BATAVIA – Batavia Farmer’s Market

Located on River Street & the Lot on Spring Street

Saturdays, 8am-12pm

www.downtownbatavia.com

The Batavia Farmer’s Market is located on River Street and in the

adjacent parking lot at Spring Street in Downtown Batavia. Held

each Saturday and hosted by Batavia MainStreet, the market has

made many changes in an effort to keep the market open and ac-

cessible to those who depend on it. Come out and support local

farmers. Grab lunch and enjoy it outside with a view of the Fox.

Then stroll downtown and stop in a shop or two. Masks are re-

quired. Look for details about the new consumer and vendor ex-

pectations at Batavia Farmers' Market . Photo by Batavia Main

Street

GENEVA – Geneva French Market

Located at South and Fourth Streets

Sundays, 9am-2pm

www.geneva.il.us

Come get your fresh fix of food, vegetables, flowers and more at

the Geneva French Market. This open-air market gives patrons an

opportunity to interact with a variety of local businesses each

week. The market runs weekly from mid-May into early November.

This year's market will follow Illinois' health guidelines due to the

coronavirus pandemic.

SUGAR GROVE – Community Farmers Market

Sugar Grove Village Hall Parking Lot

Saturdays, 8am-12pm

www.sugargrovechamber.org

This market is complete with farm fresh dairy, meat, produce and

more, brought by local farmers. Additional items include crafts,

unique apparel and accessories, gift ideas such as hand painted

wine glasses and more. Community spirit is felt throughout. Home

to the Sugar Grove Corn Boil.

KKEENNDDAALLLL

OSWEGO – Oswego Country Market

Sundays, June 28-October 18, 9am-1pm

Downtown Oswego on Main Street

www.oswegolandparkdistrict.org

Every Sunday, June through October, downtown Oswego opens

up for the Oswego Country Market. This fresh air market is the

best place to shop each week for locally grown produce, fresh

farm eggs, raw honey, delicious Wisconsin cheese, and fresh

baked bread. While spending time downtown, stop to visit the

many stores open during the Oswego Country Market.

YORKVILLE – Yorkville Farmer’s Market

Yorkville Town Square

Saturdays 10am-2pm, June 1–August 24

www.facebook.com/yorkvillemarket/

Summertime market featuring local vendors at Yorkville towns-

quare, just blocks away from the charming riverfront.

AUTUMN

farmer’s markets

FARMER’S MARKETS 2020

Glancer Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 17

LISLE–– Lisle Park District, in partnership with Unlimited Play Playgrounds,

is excited to announce the opening of the community’s first, universally ac-

cessible playground, aptly named “Discovery Playground,” located in Com-

munity Park (1825 Short St., Lisle).

With the help of the nonprofit, Unlimited Play, a generous donation from Lisle

Partners for Parks Foundation, and overwhelming support from local busi-

nesses and residents alike, the project broke ground late summer, 2019.

While there were some speedbumps along the way, the community came

together to make the vision of an inclusive playground possible. Thanks to

the tireless efforts and impressive skill of Lisle Park District Parks and Play-

ground Specialists, the playground was constructed and officially opened to

the public at a ribbon cutting on Saturday, August 29.

As mentioned during the small ceremony by Lisle Park District Director, Dan

Garvy, none of this would have been possible without the support of local

organizations, in addition to Lisle Partners for Parks Foundation, like SEAS-

PAR, The Main Street Organization of Realtors, as well as great support

from the Lisle community and beyond. The park district is proud to provide

an inclusive, safe play space for all ages and abilities, and could not be

prouder of the work done by parks staff to make the mission a reality.

Director Garvy summed up the opportunity to bring this project to the com-

munity, particularly during this difficult time period, saying “Let Discovery

Playground, Opportunities without Boundaries, serve as a testament to what

a community can do together, and be a beacon of inspiration and hope mov-

ing forward.” Children and adults, with and without disabilities and/or critical

illnesses, will have the opportunity to play, learn, and grow, in a space spe-

cifically designed to remove physical and social barriers.

Unlimited Play is a nonprofit organization that works with communities to

build universally inclusive playgrounds to promote health and wellness and

change communities by providing freedom of play for all children. The or-

ganization helps plan, design, and build fully accessible playgrounds, allow-

ing children – regardless of their abilities – to play together.

The Lisle Park District provides a variety of leisure activities for people of all

ages throughout the year. Park district facilities include Lisle Community

Park; the Recreation Center which houses Gentle Learning Preschool,

SEASPAR, the Senior Center, and multipurpose rooms; Sea Lion Aquatic

Park; River Bend Golf Course; Wheatstack – A Midwestern Eatery & Tap

and numerous neighborhood playgrounds and parks offering amenities such

as tennis courts, ball fields, walking paths and picnic areas totaling close to

400 acres. It is the mission of the Lisle Park District to enrich the quality of

life for people of all ages by providing constructive and creative leisure op-

portunities. For more information about the Lisle Park District, please call

630-964-3410 or visit www.lisleparkdistrict.org

All-Inclusive Discovery Playground Officially Open

SPECIAL NEEDS NEWS

Glancer Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 19

September has arrived and with it comes many mornings, af-

ternoons and evenings spent outside, enjoying all that makes

Chicago’s western suburbs a beautiful place to live. Let’s start

with the restaurants– especially those with a unique cuisine and

a craft cokctail list to match. Enjoy!

Brunch Like No Other

GENEVA–If you haven’t tried the Brunch menu at Craft Urban

in Geneva, then you are for sure missing out. Known for fun en-

tree selections like Gotta Have Dem Sticky Buns, Kelly’s Piero-

gis and the Brunch Tacos– this west suburban favorite is trendy

and inviting. Their menu also boasts scrumptious options for

lunch and dinner, as well as fabulous libations. Get ready for

their new location opening in Downtown Aurora. How fun is that!

www.crafturban.com

DINING & COCKTAILS

WEST SUBURBAN DINING

DINING

DINING + COCKTAILS

20 • WESTERN SUBURBS • SEPTEMBER 2020 • Glancer Magazine

DINING + COCKTAILS

CCoocckkttaaiillss

DINING

Pig Minds Vanilla Bitch Slap, Anyone?

Now Available at Trendy Hot Spot

Legends Grill & Bar In Woodridge

WOODRIDGE–So many love Legends in Woodridge for the menu, the

atmospher and the unique Beer List, including the popular Pig Minds Va-

nilla Bitch Slap, as well as Great Lakes Oktoberfest. Both are currently

on tap, along with many more. View a complete list online. This family-

owned grill and bar features American pub fare, including our jumbo wings

and shrimp. Also offering outdoor dining, pool tables and poker machines.

Um, sounds like fun, right? Enjoy! www.legendsgrillbar.com

The Perfect Pair In Sugar Grove

Enjoy a ‘You Call It’ Martini & Shrimp Cocktail

SUGAR GROVE–At the end of a long day, few things entertain the

taste buds like some baby back ribs or a delicious steak that’s been

grilled to perfection. Everything here is AMAZING! You’ll love their

‘You Call It Martinis’ paired up with the scrumptious Shrimp Cocktail.

Other food favorites include prime rib, broasted pork chops, grilled

salmon, sirloin burgers, and All-American BBQ ribs smoked in-house.

Definitely worth a visit to beautiful Sugar Grove. It will soon become

one of your new west suburban faves– trust us!

www.thefiresidegrillesugargrove.com

New In Town & So Far, So Loved!

Old Town Pour House In Naperville

NAPERVILLE–Well, hello there! Old Town Pour House is a new

restaurant and bar featuring 90 craft beers on tap and classic

American food with a twist. With a mouthwatering menu and

energetic atmosphere, we have found Old Town Pour House to

be the perfect place for lunch, happy hour, and dinner. You will

love the upbeat atmosphere and that they have a private party

space for your next special event. Check out the Bottleneck Re-

wards and become a member for fun savings. Oh, and the out-

door patio is one of the best!

www.oldtownpourhouse.com/naperville

Glancer Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 21

TREND #1 | Hand Sanitizer

Backpack Clips

AVAILABLE AT BATH & BODY WORKS

3…2…1…Blast off to clean hands! Pair this light-up holder with your

favorite PocketBac & watch germs take off like a rocket. The conven-

ient silver tone clip attaches to your backpack, purse and more so you

can always keep your favorite sanitizer close at hand. Designed ex-

clusively for our PocketBac hand sanitizers, sold separately. Unicorns,

Kittens and more designs available Visit today!

www.bathandbodyworks.com

TREND #2 | ‘Go Ask Your

Father’ Mug

AVAILABLE AT THE COLLECTIVE LHE+MAKERY IN LISLE

If you’re the mom who frequently finds herself telling the kids

to ‘Go Ask Your Father’ then we have the absolute perfect

mug just for you! This shop in Lisle is adorably chic with

the hottest trends, but this trend is our FAVORITE! Enjoy.

www./the-collective-lhe.myshopify.com/

TRENDS

Trends Moms

Love & Where

to Find Them

10 TRENDS 2020

22 • WESTERN SUBURBS • SEPTEMBER 2020 • Glancer Magazine

TREND #3 | First Year Mom Box

A SPECIAL KEEPSAKE BY MUDPIE

This washed wooden keepsake box has a stamped metal sentiment plate

featuring a sliding lid with printed poem about mom and baby's sweet first

year together. Arrives with 52 paper cards to record weekly milestone

thoughts and memories. $29.00 • www.mandems.com

• Glen Ellyn

TREND #4 | Bentgo Lunch Box

KIDS DURABLE & LEAKPROOF LUNCH BOX

The must-have lunchbox for kids this year is this leakproof, durable options

avialble in many colors. Proportioned perfectly for a child’s appetite (rec-

ommended for ages 3-7). Plus, drop-proof, rubber-coated edges and a

sturdy design for active kids.$27.99 • Target • www.target.com

TREND #5 | Screen Savers Glasses

BABIATORS® BLUE LIGHT BLOCKING NAVIGATOR GLASSES (Boys)

All new Screen Saver glasses from Babiators will help you protect your chil-

dren’s eyes from overexposure to digital screens. Babiators took the navi-

gator style that kids and parents love and added blue light blocking lenses

to create Babiators Screen Savers to make screen time safer for your family.

Flexible rubber frame. Blocks 55% of blue light through Category 1 lenses

Ages 6+ years • $22.00 • Von Maur • www.vonmaur.com

TREND #6 | ‘Faith Over Fear’ Tee

A WAY TO STAY POSITIVE DURING THE PANDEMIC

Words to live by. . . "Faith over Fear", this graphic tee is available in black or

white and size S, M, L, XL available. $35 • Jeans & a Cute Top Shop

Wheaton & St. Charles

www.jeansandacutetop.com/product/faith-over-fear-tee/

TREND #7 | Magnetic Calendar

MELISSA & DOUG® • AVAILABLE AT LEARNING EXPRESS

Keep life organized with this wooden magnetic perpetual calendar. Open the

fabric hinged boards to reveal a calendar grid on one board, while the other

board keeps all the magnets close at hand. A sturdy cord is attached for hang-

ing. The wood framed dry-erase board include 133 magnets including years,

months, days, and most holidays and childhood activities and a bonus magnet

to customize. Ages 3+ 11.75''H x 15.5''W x 1''D • $19.99 • Melissa & Doug®

www.melissaanddoug.com

TREND #8 | Taco

Tuesday Cookbook

A MUST-HAVE COOK BOOK FOR THE FAM!

The Taco Tuesday Cookbook is your family's

dream come true, because, if there's one thing

we all can agree on, tacos are awesome.

They're customizable. They're quick. They're

tasty. And most importantly, they make us all

happy! Inside, you'll find taco recipes for every

week of the year, all of which are made with

real-food ingredients--and most of which are

ready in 30 minutes or less. There are also vegetarian, gluten-free, and paleo

options throughout, so you'll be able to fully customize recipes based on your

family's needs. Tortilla, salsa, drink, and dessert recipes make your taco night

complete. $21.99 • M and Em’s Boutique • Glen Ellyn • www.mandems.com

TREND #9 | ‘Slay at Home Mom’ Hat

SAY IT LOUD, WEAR IT PROUD...IT’S YOUR HAT–SLAY GIRL!

The 'Slay at Home Mom' Personality Hat Makes the Perfect Gift for the Special

Mom In Your Life...or Treat Yourself. YOU DESERVE IT! ♥ $28.95

Urban Echo Shop • Sugar Grove • www.urbanechoshop.com

TREND #10 | Erasable Crayons

I HEART ART ERASABLE CRAYONS

Start the love for art with the inspirational heart shaped crayons. The I Heart Art

Erasable Crayons are brightly colored and shaped into heart-shapes with 2 co-

ordinating colors in each one. These easy to hold crayons can be twisted into

an oval shape as well. Plus the heart crayons are erasable too! Recommended

age 6 years to 12 years $11.99. Learning Express • Naperville, Glen Ellyn,

Geneva • www.learningexpress.com

Glancer Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 23

LITERARY

CREATIVE MARKETING

STRATEGIES

PENNY O’BRIEN – One word that

consistently comes to clients’ minds

when they think of Penny O’Brien is

“hustle.” As a Seller Representative

Specialist, she loves meeting with

sellers to discuss pre-market home

improvements and guide them to make

their home “showtime ready” when it hits the market. She strongly be-

lieves in professional staging and offers it as a complimentary service.

With a reputation for “good-looking listings,” she helps clients realize a

higher return and quicker sale. Penny says “Staging transforms a home

from average to amazing”.

Penny O'Brien Broker

Relocation Specialist / Negotiation Expert

(630) 207-7001 • penny.obrien@bairdwarner.com

Read Penny’s Local Industry

Expert Column at www.GlancerMagazine.com

PPeennnnyy OO’’BBiieenn

24 • WESTERN SUBURBS • SEPTEMBER 2020 • Glancer Magazine

CARING + SHARING

26 • WESTERN SUBURBS • SEPTEMBER 2020 • Glancer Magazine

FRIENDS OF PRENTICE

35th Annual Fundraising

Benefit Themed “Still

Together, At Home”

to Be Held Virtually on

Saturday, October 24th

Friends of Prentice (FOP), a

non-profit organization working

in partnership with Northwestern

Medicine Prentice Women’s

Hospital to fund innovative and

leading-edge research benefit-

ting the lives of women, is host-

ing its 35th annual fundraising

benefit, themed Still Together, At

Home. Due to Covid-19, this is the first year that the gala will

be held virtually on Saturday, October 24, 2020. Shifting the

gala online is a shining example of how the non-profit is

adapting to the current climate in order to still raise critical

funds needed to award doctors and clinicians grants needed

to continue their life saving research across all areas of

women’s health.

Friends of Prentice is inviting Chicago's business, philan-

thropic leaders and anyone interested in a fun night in, to

‘come together’ virtually to honor the

healthcare community while raising

critical funds for medical research.

The goal of this year’s gala is to

raise $750,000 that will be awarded

to physicians and clinicians at Pren-

tice Women’s Hospital. The new vir-

tual format will invite guests to sign

up and receive a link to view a live

event from the comfort of their own

homes and “host” a virtual table

while bidding on once in a lifetime

auction items.

Since 1983, Friends of Prentice has

raised over $20M and awarded

grants to more than 100 researchers and clinical programs.

FOP’s annual grants initiative has funded projects in the areas

of Covid-19 research, gynecologic oncology, mental health,

heart disease, disparities in access to care, diabetes, HIV,

uterine and pelvic medicine, genetic biomarker research,

home health care outreach and more. Funds raised during

the Benefit go directly to research, education, and patient care

programs at Prentice.

For information and tickets to Still Together, At Home, please

visit www.friendsofprentice.org/gala

CARING + SHARING

GIVING

Back

Glancer Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 27

Karisma Boutique

The ‘Best of the Best’ 2020 Reader’s Choice

Awards Business of the Year

Chosen from Thousands of Entries Submitted by West Suburban

Residents, Introducing Karisma Boutique of Naperville

Very similar to the challenging times of today, back in 2009 when Ginger Makowski

decided to open her store in downtown Naperville, she was also in the midst of an

unsettled time in her personal life. Mother of three, Ginger had always thought

she would start a charitable organization and volunteer when she retired, but when

circumstances shifted, she dug deep and pursued her dream of opening a retail

store. She did not have a solid plan and just ran with it and along the way found

it to be the most satisfying thing she has ever done outside of raising her children.

Karisma Boutique, Naperville’s “hidden gem”, was named after her daughter Jen

Hoeft who has amazing charisma and travels with Ginger to worldwide trade

shows to purchase unique apparel and accessories, jewelry, scarves, purses, hats,

shoes, home decor, candles, lotions, and various gift items.

“We are usually buying weekly which brings in new arrivals a few times a week,”

Ginger says. “It's been a challenge recently as I like to hand pick our merchandise,

but I have had to rely online at this time which makes it difficult. We pride our-

selves in exceptional customer service, incredible selections, affordable pricing,

and also guarantee our product 100%. Satisfaction is extremely important to us.”

This has been an extremely difficult year for the Boutique and without the im-

promptu live online shows followed by personal delivery and curbside service,

Ginger is not sure she would have made it through. She is eternally grateful for

her customers and staff for keeping the dream alive and she is just as surprised

as the next to see masks as the fashion statement of 2020!

Ginger consciously gives back to the community by attending many charity events

and hosting in store parties for her customers. She thoroughly believes it is not

always about making the sale, as it is to bond a relationship that is treasured

forever.

View Inside the Boutique & Share Online at www.GlancerMagazine.com

Karisma Boutique, 232 S Washington St, Naperville, IL 60540

630-355-5554 • www.karismaboutiqueshop.com

BUSINESS

BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

of the year

28 • WESTERN SUBURBS • SEPTEMBER 2020 • Glancer Magazine

BUSINESS

BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

Karisma Boutique,

Naperville’s “hidden

gem”, was named after

Ginger’s daughter, Jen

Hoeft, who has amazing

charisma and travels

with Ginger to worldwide

trade shows to purchase

unique apparel and

accessories, and more.

Glancer Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 29

30 • WESTERN SUBURBS • SEPTEMBER 2020 • Glancer Magazine

KIM ROTH FINE ART STUDIO

Cultural artifacts. Cave paintings. Hieroglyphics.

Sculptors. History shared and communicated its

stories through art. It represented our universal

language, brought people together and inspired

the world around us.

The power of art is just as evident today; espe-

cially as it pertains to our children. Art improves

cognitive development, emotional intelligence and

creativity (just to name a few!). The importance of

art, in our children’s lives, is undeniable. Kim Roth

- Fine Art Studio, located in Naperville, offers an

inspiring space for creativity and curiosity to blos-

som.

In 1998, Kim stepped away from her corporate accounting career to raise

her five children in Naperville. During this time, she renewed her love of

art and began commissioning painted portraits. In 2010, she enrolled at

The School of Representational Art, located in the

heart of Chicago’s River North neighborhood. In-

spired by her classical training, Kim began teaching

classes in her home. Her passion for Representation

Art became evident - specifically in the depiction of

people, flowers and nature. Due to popularity, KR-

FAS opened its doors in 2014 - hosting online and

in-person (indoor and outdoor!) classes to children,

teens and adults. In fact, some of her online students

are from Oregon, Wisconsin and West Virginia.

“For me, drawing and painting is a chance to set

aside my worldly concerns and focus on something

beautiful … the World needs beauty. Beauty pro-

vides hope!” - Kim Roth

If you are seeking some blue-light-free fun, grab a paintbrush. Art is a

perfect medium for reflection, observation and imagination. Enjoy! #quar-

antineart

UNIQUE IN SUBURBIA

UNIQUE

in Suburbia

by Brianna Bartemeyer

Photos Submitted

PERSONABLE, ENERGETIC & CREATIVE

REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL

SUSAN COLELLA OF BAIRD & WARNER

This proud Naperville resident shares that helping local sellers and

buyers doesn’t feel like work making it easy to be dedicated and re-

sults oriented When she is hired to list a home she gains much of

the marketing inspiration from her sellers when she asks “ what do

you love about your home?” From there she designs high end cus-

toms booklets with professional photography & drone shots, de-

scriptions of updates, & develops unique ways to target the right

buyers on the internet. Restyling her listings with professional stag-

ing , 3D tours great for out of state buyers and constant follow up

with all parties are all included for her recipe of success! Susan is

currently meeting with sellers & buyers now in anticipation of a thriv-

ing Spring market~ Call luxury listing agent Susan Colella anytime

to discuss your real estate goals for 2020.

Susan Colella, Baird & Warner, (630) 946-3813

Susan Colella

REAL ESTATE

Glancer Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 31

UNIQUE

MILLION

DOLLAR

lliissttiinngg

Incredible New construction in North Naperville located

in Saybrook Pool Community. Modern Farmhouse

Design. features include 4 bed, 4.1 bathrooms, first

floor office and a 9 ft basement. Large bedrooms, all

with ensuites. Open concept with great flow. 10 ft

ceilings on the first floor. Expansive Great room with

ample natural light! Gourmet kitchen designed for

entertaining. Close to school, Downtown Naperville-

tand Train! Your this incredible home today.

$1,199,990

4 bed • 4.5 bath

3,900 sqft • 0.26acre lot

304 E 11th Ave, Naperville

(630) 974-5697

Presented by:

Nathan Stillwell

Brokered by:

john greene REALTOR

REAL ESTATE

32 • WESTERN SUBURBS • SEPTEMBER 2020 • Glancer Magazine

MILLION

DOLLAR

MILLION DOLLAR LISTING

Modern Beauty.

Ready to Deliver.

This family home is ready for you and

yours. Make new memories inside this

spacious one-of-a-kind home situated in

the beautiful Saybrook neighborhood.

Glancer Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 33

To Give,

To Inspire

CARING + SHARING

A Monthly Caring + Sharing Column

34 • WESTERN SUBURBS • SEPTEMBER 2020 • Glancer Magazine

GLEN ELLYN–Starting the

new school year has been a

unique stress for parents these

last few weeks. Will we have

hybrid in-school learning? Will

we have remote learning? Will

my children fall behind? Will

they be mentally and socially

impacted? Although valid con-

cerns for all parents, these is-

sues become exacerbated

within our low-income families.

Research shows that lower income children are

less likely to participate in online learning and have

less available support at home. This is where the

Glen Ellyn Children’s Resource Center has been

able to step-up to assist and expand to help more

children this fall. The GECRC mission is to help

children from low-income families acquire the nec-

essary skills in academics and social interaction to

move successfully through grades K-12 by provid-

ing after-school and summer programs which em-

phasize literacy and community involvement using

the talents of teachers, volunteer tutors, GECRC

staff and a variety of local organizations.

In the fall of 2003, GECRC became a 501c(3) non-

profit corporation in order to better serve the

greater Glen Ellyn community. Since then, they

have opened after school programs at Abraham

Lincoln and Churchill Elementary Schools, Hadley

Junior High and their newest program this fall at

Glen Crest Middle School allowing them to serve

students living in Glen Ellyn, Wheaton, Carol

Stream, Glendale Heights and Lombard. Last

year, GECRC was able to support 186 students in

their after school program and

115 students in their summer pro-

gram.

“Our students interact with a vari-

ety of tutors, some that are close

to their age and others are college

students, parents or retired

teachers,” says Leah Harding,

GECRC Executive Director. “It is

impactful to young learners to

know that so many people are

there to support them, encourage

them, and help them reach their potential.”

Starting September 15th, GECRC students will

begin working with volunteer tutors online to assist

students remotely with their e-learning assign-

ments while at home. Volunteers will be asked to

sign-up for hour slots between 4-5:30pm. More

volunteers are also needed to launch their new

program at Glen Crest Middle School. If you are

interested in volunteering, please complete the

“Volunteer Questionnaire”, which can be found on

their website at www.gecrc.com/volunteer/a

pplication

. To learn more, visit www.gecrc.com .

ABOUT THE WRITER

Mindy Kyle is passionate about helping

people discover what brings them joy and to

live a full, healthy and happy life. She has

her Master of Fine Arts degree in creative

writing from DePaul University and is a vet-

eran of Chicago’s theater and commercial

world as well as a graduate of the Second City

Improv School. Mindy lives in Naperville with her

husband, three children and the cutest dog in the

land.

VIEW MINDY’S MONTHLY COLUMN AT

www.GlancerMagazine.com/to-give-to-inspire

Glen Ellyn Children’s

Resource Center to the Rescue

CARING + SHARING

Glancer Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 35

FAMILY DENTISTRY WITH

A WIDE ARRAY OF SERVICES

Valley View Dental offers an array of general and cos-

metic dentistry, periodontal, dental implants, oral surgery,

and orthodontic procedures, including traditional braces,

Invisalign, teeth whitening, CEREC one-day crowns and

even same day emergency visits. With a large staff of

multi-lingual doctors, on-site labs at each location, and

extended business and weekend hours, Valley View Den-

tal has the ability to treat patients according to their own

schedules and convenience. Stop by and see why others

in the community have trusted Valley View Dental for al-

most 20 years. Located In Naperville, Montgomery &

Romeoville. Valley View Dental www.vvdental.com

DDEENNTTAALL

HEALTH + WELLNESS

36 • WESTERN SUBURBS • SEPTEMBER 2020 • Glancer Magazine

CONTINUING TO CARE FOR YOU

Keeping your family well is your top priority right now and at DuPage Medical

Group, it's theirs too. They recognize that your healthcare needs don’t disappear

during a pandemic like this, which is why they're continuing to serve their patients

safely at their clinics and through virtual visits.

Whether you need primary or specialty care, you can connect with your physician

securely on your mobile device or computer through the MyDMG Health app. Visit

face-to-face with a provider via video visit, message with a physician over e-Visit

or schedule your next in-office appointment online, all from the comfort of home.

Take care of your family’s healthcare to-do list today at www.ScheduleDMG.com

BEAUTIFY & RELAX

ST. CHARLES–Let this spa

help you disconnect and im-

prove your health, beauty and

relaxation with specialized

massages, meditation, in-

frared sauna, and reiki energy

work. Complete your visit with

a natural hair or nail treatment

to feel as beautiful outside as

you do inside.

Tranquility Spa

113 N. 2nd Ave., St. Charles

www.relaxattranquility.com

NUMBER ONE PROVIDER OF

COOLSCULPTING IN THE MIDWEST

WESTERN SUBURBS–Concierge Medical Spa is a luxury medical

spa with highly trained physicians, nurse practitioners and esthe-

ticians offering the most comprehensive esthetic medical services.

From body contouring to highly advanced future-forward restor-

ative and non-surgical cosmetic procedures, our esthetic experts

are some of the best in the industry. As the number one provider

of Coolsculpting in the Midwest and Top 200 in the country of Al-

lergan injectors, our services produce excellent results and have

high client satisfaction. www.conciergemedspa.com/glancer

RESTORATIVE YOGA & GONG

MEDITATION TOGETHER IN ONE

BATAVIA–Through holistic healing and

shamanic healing, the center offers differ-

ent services from cultures around the

world to bring balance and harmony to

your physical and emotional planes.

Find unique classes like drum circles,

restorative yoga and gong meditation

here.

Healing Arts Metaphysical Center

4 E. Wilson St., Suite 101, Batavia,

www.healingartsmetaphysical.com

FLOATING IS THE NEW

CALMING TREND

NAPERVILLE–Find a quiet space

to just BE. Float in 10 inches of

skin temperature water with

1,600 pounds of Epsom salt to

keep you afloat even if you fall

asleep. You have your own pri-

vate Float Room and can control

the underwater LED light and

white noise. Annica Float Club,

4S100 N. IL-59, Naperville,

www.floatnaperville.com

HEALTH + WELLNESS

hheeaalltthhyy lliivviinngg

Glancer Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 37

HEALTH + WELLNESS

www.h-4training.com

Locations In Wheaton & Geneva

GET 1-ON-1 PERSONAL TRAINING AT H-4

TRAINING, TWO SUBURBAN LOCATIONS

WHEATON & GENEVA–It’s time to take care of #1 with

H4 Training! This program is best for individuals with very

specific needs who require dedicated attention. H-4’s

sessions focus on the specific goals of each client with

workouts tailored to each person. Visit online to learn

more and to check out the many other programs available

to you. Watch for a Q & A at GlancerMagazine.com

written by H4 Training's founder, Hank Ebeling, Local In-

dustry Expert in the Fitness category.

H4 Training

Wheaton & Geneva locations.

www.h4-training.com/services/personal-training/

FFIITTNNEESSSS

Mom’s Lile Black Book

38 • WESTERN SUBURBS • SEPTEMBER 2020 • Glancer Magazine

COMMUNITY LIVING

FITNESS

MONTHLY COLUMN

WHATEVER FLOATS YOUR BOAT!

This is me! My very first #MomsLittleBlackBook

@GlancerMagazine adventure without my girls

since 2009 when I first started writing the

column. It’s September and it’s Back to School;

and although it looks very different for most this

year due to remote learning and COVID-19

accommodations, it looks substantially differ-

ent to me as both my girls are away from home

living on college campuses.

I am officially an empty nester and this month I

put the Mom back in #MomsLittleBlackBook as I

gathered my friends and set off on the St. Charles

Paddlewheel Riverboat specialty BYOB Sunset Cruise

for Ages 21+.

Yes – I was adulting – a strange new word other than MOM! We

packed our appetizers and drinks and boarded the boat for a peace-

ful evening with a bluegrass band and striking skyline. I enjoyed

friendship and laughter in a whole new way and truly felt like I was

a million miles from home. We met new people and experienced a

first-hand appreciation for the rivers that flow in our backyards while

cruising safely at 30-45% capacity, allowing for 6-foot distancing

from those outside our social bubble.

Even though I cannot say enough wonderful things about the adults

only BYOB Sunset Cruise just 45 minutes from home, I am also ex-

cited to share all of the other all-ages opportunities available such

as the sunset cruises for any age; kid cruises with specialty themes

like princesses and pirates and story times; History Cruises; Birding

by Boat; Yoga & Cruise; and so much more! The boat sails through

October so there is still plenty of time this year to take advantage

of these pure and simple escapes on the Fox River.

As for this mom, well you might just find her aboard

the Monarchs & Margaritas cruise on September 12

enjoying snacks and beverages on the Pottawa-

tomie veranda before boarding the riverboat to

learn more about the important role the Fox

River plays in the monarch’s stirring saga.

Overview

Enjoy travel from the era of Mark Twain

through a green corridor of scenic beauty.

Both boats have open-air upper decks for un-

obstructed sightseeing and the lower decks

have windows that can be closed in cool or rainy

weather. Public tours are reasonably prices from

May to October. Enjoy recurring events, such as Kids

Cruises, Sunset Cruises, Storytime Cruises and many more

Private charters available, too.

St. Charles Paddlewheel Riverboats

8 North Avenue, St. Charles, IL

(630) 584-2334 • www.stcriverboats.com

Hours: Varies depending on cruise selected.

Price $: Varies depending on cruise selected.

ABOUT THE WRITER

Naperville mom Kristen Kucharski graduated from Illinois State Uni-

versity in 1992 with an International Business Degree. She has two

energetic daughters and her house is always full of children.

Kristen’s column titled, Mom's Little Black Book, is a monthly feature

written for moms who are looking for ways to keep their kids busy.

Read her past columns at

www.glancermagazine.com/bloggers

Mom’s Lile Black Book

Glancer Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 39

LOCAL INNOVATOR

by Kristen Kucharski

Photos by Mike Catuara

WEDDINGS 2020

40 • WESTERN SUBURBS • SEPTEMBER 2020 • Glancer Magazine

SHOPPING + STYLE

410 W. Fifth Avenue

Naperville • 355-4488

www.nonajos.com

42 • WESTERN SUBURBS • SEPTEMBER 2020 • Glancer Magazine

SHOP FALL

SHOPPING + STYLE

WAREHOUSE 55

FALL MARKET

Saturday, Sep 19

10-5pm

Warehouse 55 is a unique

collection of vintage finds,

repurposed furnishings,

mixed with many one of a

kind accessories. Here

you'll find something for

every aesthetic- from

MCM, rustic farmhouse,

cottage chic and modern

contemporary.

www.warehouse55.shop

NONA JO’S FALL OPEN HOUSE

Thur-Sat • September 17

Be among the first to see what’s new in autumn

décor and get a sneak peek at some of the new

Halloween favorites. Plus, save 20% off your entire

purchase for all three days! Masks are required &

shopper capacity may be limited.

www.nonajos.com

DUPAGE DOUBLES

Saturday, September 12-14 • 7-1pm

ONLINE for the Fall/Winter Consign-

ment Event. Shop a huge selection of

children’s clothes (newborn to teen),

shoes, accessories, baby gear, toys

and more. Everything you need in

one stop all from the comfort of

home! September 14 is the 50% off

sale.

www.shop.dupagedoubles.com

2ND ANNUAL LAKE GENEVA FALL

CRAFT & VENDOR EVENT

Saturday, October 14 • 9am-3pm

There will be over 110 vendors on dis-

play. Come shop for unique treasures

and trendy finds. Please see the list

below for confirmed crafters, direct

sales and local businesess. Free ad-

mission. Grand Geneva Resort and

Spa 7036 Grand Geneva Way, Lake

Geneva. Join the facebook page today

at Events by Stacy. Join the Vendor FB

group - Events by Stacy for more infor-

mation.

Glancer Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 43

Kid

Stuff

Play to Learn

at DuPage

Children’s

Museum

NAPERVILLE–Create,

build, discover, think,

wonder, and more! Explore

ways you can play to learn

at home with your child by

connecting with DuPage

Children's Museum on

Facebook or Instagram. Play leads the way to building more

confidence, practicing important problem-solving skills, learn-

ing to cooperate, and strengthening the bond between child

and caregiver. Keep an eye out for fun outdoor activities being

planned for September and October!

(630) 637-8000 • www.dupagechildrens.org

Pumpkin Fest at Cosley Zoo • October 1-31

WHEATON–Taking in the beautiful fall colors at Cosley Zoo is a must-do! See

the animals in the crisp fall air, listen to the squeals of excitement from the

children conquering the straw pyramid and take in the hundreds of pumpkins

scattered on the zoo’s lawn. Apples, gourds, pumpkins, cider, cornstalks, and

various sizes of straw bales are available to purchase. Regular admission

rates apply. www.

cosleyzoo.org

Click for More Kid Stuff!

In Bloom through Labor Day

Hurry! Sunflower Festival Ends September 7

MAPLE PARK–You may know it for its super fun corn maze,

pumpkins, and apples come Fall each year, but Kuiper's

Farm has something new to make you smile. Based on their

belief of connecting people with Agriculture and each other,

the popular Maple Park farm thought to bring another beautiful

Ag product to their guests; fresh cut sunflowers and some

fantastic photo opportunities!

www.youpickfun.com

44 • WESTERN SUBURBS • SEPTEMBER 2020 • Glancer Magazine

FALL FUN 2020

Glancer Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 45

AT HOME : THEN & NOW

Then &

Now

46• WESTERN SUBURBS • SEPTEMBER 2020 • Glancer Magazine

Stunning Home Remodel

NAPERVILLE–During the shutdown when

people started to spend more time at

home, remodeling projects came to the

forefront to include interior sport courts,

more casual, family centered use of

spaces, and outdoor living areas

open to the environment with fire-

places, bars, and comfortable seat-

ing areas.

Bruce George of Charles Vincent

George (CVG) Architects in Naper-

ville loves mixing custom design with

a sense of community well-being into

all his projects which he has been shar-

ing through a Before & After Photo social

media series showing the dramatic possi-

bilities of change.

“We are a community focused firm that serves both

the residential and commercial market sectors,” Bruce

says. “Our work is focused on creating unique designs that will ulti-

mately enhance the community. From designing award winning res-

idences to projects like the Riverwalk, local community clubhouses,

and downtown businesses where we create architecture that fits into

what makes Naperville great.”

He has had fun including his personal residence in the Before & After

Series.

“When you love what you do the lines blur between your job and

your hobby,” he says. “The exterior changed significantly a few

years back. It went from a 1920’s brick Tudor style with a detached

garage to a much larger shingle style with dormers, a large front

wrap around porch and an attached garage. Most recently, at my

wife’s suggestion (or was that a demand), the

kitchen and dining area were updated. I kept the

flooring from our original 1998 home conver-

sion that we liked and opened the space up

between the dining and kitchen area, up-

dated all the finishes to a more transi-

tional, lighter brighter space that was

more open than compartmentalized. It

has changed the look and feel of the

entire first floor of the home. The dif-

ference is remarkable.”

Still on his bucket list is creating an in-

door golf driving range; but like most

of his clients, he too always has a

budget to consider.

Bruce loves working for his family owned

company and feels proud they have been in-

volved in the Naperville Chamber for over 50

years supporting Naperville service organizations

such as the Rotary Club and community projects, such

as the Riverwalk & Millennium Carillon, as well as providing

Pro-bono services to programs like Hesed House when they are in

need of Architectural services.

More excitement of anticipated change is soon to come for the Nap-

erville community at the multi-story River Main development on the

Northwest corner of Main and Water Street, and the redesign of the

Ogden Mall in conjunction with the expected development of the new

Naperville Costco that will enhance the City’s aesthetic and make

for an even more viable business community. From home to busi-

ness, past to present, never doubt the power of potential.

-Kristen Kucharski

Send Your Glancing the Gallant Nominations to

editorial@glancermagzine.com

AT HOME AROUND TOWN

Then &

Now

Glancer Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 47

48 • WESTERN SUBURBS • SEPTEMBER 2020 • Glancer Magazine

COMMUNITY LIVING

GET TO KNOW V FUSION STUDIO

GENEVA–V Fusion Studio trainers (pictued above) take con-

sideration to increase your quality of life when creating

classes - and now also virtually (join facebook page). Local

area owner, Rachel Kowal, is currently pursuing her master’s

degree in exercise physiology, and she bases all classes in

the latest research. The current schedule has a variety of ef-

fective, fun, and unique classes. V fusion will improve your

core strength, endurance, and physique safely so you “train

for life” with this popular fitness studio. You’re invited to come

out and see why so many love it! Enjoy 30-days of unlimited

classes for just $95 or try one week for FREE when you men-

tion Glancer Magazine. V Fusion Studio, 129 W State,

Geneva, www.vfusionstudio.com

JOIN TODAY! www.vfusionstudio.com

Quality of Life

Glancer Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 49

TRENDY TRAVELER

TrendY

We found the BEST resort for famlies....and PETS, too!

Families are going to love this and for good reason! Instead

of scurrying to find boarding for your beloved pet come

Spring Break or your next family vacation, bring Fido along!

The Surf & Sand Hotel on Florida’s Pensacola Beach wel-

comes pets for all guests. Located on the quiet waters of Lit-

tle Sabine, just across the street from the Pensacola Beach

Pier, the Surf & Sand Hotel is among the first of the hotels

on Pensacola Beach to offer pet-friendly accommodations.

How perfect is that?

“I think a lot, if not most people consider their pets to be

family. Our goal is to create an unforgettable destination for

your family vacation, and that includes the furry members of

your family. Pets are just more fun, and we are the FUN

hotel,” said general manager Amanda Donaldson.

The Surf & Sand pet policy does not have any size or breed

restrictions, but pets must remain on a leash and in pet des-

ignated areas. The pet-friendly hotel rooms will have an

added pet fee of $40 per night. There is a grassy pet walk-

ing area along the east side of the hotel, and pets are wel-

come to enjoy the hotels private beach at the rear of the

building on Little Sabine bay.

Pet-Friendly

Pensacola

Resort

50 • WESTERN SUBURBS • SEPTEMBER 2020 • Glancer Magazine

Traveler

52 • WESTERN SUBURBS • SEPTEMBER 2020 • Glancer Magazine

THE HAYES FAMILY of SUGAR GROVE

What happens when you put a financial advisor, music

teacher, teenager and grandma together in quarantine for

five months?

Surprise theme days and dress-up dinners that center

around family favorites including TV & movie characters;

Disney villains; musicians; comic book characters; Disney

characters; 80’s theme characters; cartoon characters; Uni-

versal Studios characters; Stranger Things; and book char-

acters.

When the quarantine hit in March, Eric, a financial advisor

with Morgan Stanley, began working from home while

Emma (16) transitioned to e-learning through Kaneland

High School. During this time, grandma also became a

frequent visitor, so beat the boredom, Jennifer initiated “surprise theme days”

every Thursday where the entire day, such as board games, meals, movies,

crafts, etc. would center around that theme to add a little fun

to the daily doldrum.

Shortly after, Emma, came up with the idea of adding Tues-

day night “dress-up theme dinners” that she shared with the

family through a Power Point presentation, allowing for each

member to create and assemble their costume for the fol-

lowing week as a surprise to be revealed as they walked

into the kitchen each week.

The Hayes family is used to spending quality time together,

even outside the home. They are readily building an air-

plane in a hangar at the Aurora Airport and are active par-

ticipants in the EAA (experimental aircraft association).

They also love to travel as a family and Emma works in the

community at Strides in Motion therapeutic riding facility.

Although the family misses some parts of “normal” life that they look forward

to seeing again, they feel the quarantine has brought them together in ways

that were impossible just six months ago. -Kristen Kucharski

fabulous family

FABULOUS FAMILY

Glancer Magazine • SEPTEMBER 2020 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 53

1. Elite Tutoring Place

NAPERVILLE–Recognizing that each stu-

dent is unique, their team tailors individ-

ualized programs to fit your student's

needs. With their one-to-one instruc-

tion, devoted tutors, and flexible

scheduling, your child's academic

standing will advance. This is guar-

anteed by the company. They offer

a free ACT test, free diagnostic as-

sessment and they follow Common

Core. www.elitetutoringplace.com

5. Learning Ascent Tutoring

TRI-CITIES–Founded in 2002 to offer

better tutoring solutions, their tutors have

helped hundreds of students in the Tir Cities. Their

professionals know and work with local school district

curricula. Familiarity with the curriculum allows tutors to

identify and correct the root of problems. They can even

help your child to better comprehend and complete home-

work assignments. www.learningascent.com

4. KLA Schools

NAPERVILLE–KLA

Schools motivates and ex-

poses students to various ca-

reers like Architect, Doctor, Dentist, Chef,

Pilot, Police officer, Fire Fighters,

Farmer, Attorney, Engineer, Entrepre-

neur etc., by having expert guest

speakers who are experts in their chosen

field to come and inspire them. For ages

3+ educational field visits to places re-

lated to their field of study to understand

how the concepts are implemented in

real-life. Many more enrichment oppor-

tunities available here. www.klaschools

naperville.com/enrichment/

3. KUMON

Learning Center

WESTERN SUBURBS–Here, stu-

dents advance through the program

at their own pace. The emphasis on individ-

ualized learning helps kids become fo-

cused, motivated and self-reliant. Kumon

monitors each child’s progress to ensure

comprehension before moving on to a new

concept. With a strong academic founda-

tion, critical thinking and problem solving

abilities, your child has the potential to

achieve whatever he or she desires.

www.kumon.com

2. Mathnasium

WESTERN SUBURBS–Helping kids in grades 2-

12 understand math by teaching the way that

makes sense to them. When math makes sense,

kids leap way ahead – whether they started out far

behind or already ahead in math. Their formula for

teaching kids math, the Mathnasium Method™ has

transformed the way kids learn math for over a dec-

ade across 700+ centers in the US and Canada.

www.mathnasium.com

7. Trinity Preschool

LISLE–A variety of optional Enrichment classes for 3, 4, and 5-year

old enrollees. Enrichment classes are offered for exposure, practice,

refinement, & challenge. Enrichment classes vary: some are for

a mixed age group, others are for 4 & 5’s, and one is for children

who will be attending Kindergarten the following Fall school

year. www.trinitypreschoollisle.org/enrichment-classes

6. Montessori Academy

GLEN ELLYN–Their mission is to become an

educational model of choice within the communities

that they serve through:

• a dynamic learning experience guided by Montessori philosophy.

• a superior spiritual, social, and physical academic environment.

• a climate of joy, respect and freedom within limits.

www.mymage.org/about-us/

School’s back in session and whether the kids are in school or at home eLearning, as parents, we want to give them the tools to help them succeed. From

brain training and test prep, to tutoring, creative play and cognitive assessment, there are many enrichment programs helping available to your family. Outside

help is often an important part of a student's education, providing one-on-one attention, enrichment, and other support. Here are 7 Spectacular Education En-

richment Programs to help:

EDUCATION ENRICHMENT PROGRAMS

54 • WESTERN SUBURBS • JULY 2020 • Glancer Magazine

50 CATEGORIES

150 WINNERS