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by Kristen Kucharski THE MASSINGILL FAMILY  WHEATON–While the pandemic has been hard, from the Massingill family perspective it was also a great opportunity to spend more family as Amelie (13) is typically busy with softball and Sofia (17) in badminton, in addition to many other school activities and social time.  The family has always looked forward to dinners together as the best part of their day to catch up in good conversation without the interference of electronics; and continues this tradition even with their new business launch in January 2021- a line of allergy friendly snack bars called Lovely Day Bars. “We started it because my wife Ana, and my one daughter’s have food intolerances and we could not find a snack bar that fit our needs and actually tasted like a snack bar; so, we started Lovely Day Bars which is allergy friendly - free from nuts, diary, soy, wheat, gluten, eggs, fish, peanuts, corn - and is vegan, non-GMO, but tastes like a delicious snack bar should!” Brandon says.  “We have two flavors Chocolate Chip and Sweet Caramel with Chocolate Drizzle.” Putting their words into action, they sell their bars throughout the area including several family-owned businesses in the western suburbs, as well as independent grocery stores, such as Caputos in Naperville, Tom’s Market in Warrenville, Nutrition Network in Winfield, Pete’s Fresh Market in Wheaton, Berkley’s Finer Foods and Bocadito’s Cafe in Batavia, Sweet Natalie’s Gluten Free Bakery in Wheaton, and Kramer’s Foods in Hinsdale.  Of course, their bars can also be purchased via their website at www.lovelydaybar.com, on Amazon, as well as at over 50 locations in the Chicagoland area. “Honestly, we try to live by the motto of it’s all about the community and support local businesses as much as possible!” Brandon says.  “All our business needs are fulfilled by local businesses, we have gotten great support and partnerships from other local brands such as Sweet Natalies, Extract Juicery and H4 Fitness.  We have a pretty good size garden and are always giving away extra produce either to neighbors or to the PRC and support local organizations via our giving plan such as PRC, DuPage PADS, Northern Illinois Food Bank, Deborah’s Place, our church Holy Cross Lutheran Church and the Morton Arboretum.” The family refreshes their “ELE - Everybody Love Everybody” spirit as active members of Holy Cross Lutheran Church, volunteering with Feed My Starving Children and Northern Illinois Food Bank.  Additionally, Brandon is involved with DuPage PADS, mentors for the INCubator entrepreneurship program, teaches marketing as an adjunct at College of DuPage, and is a volunteer consultant with Compass Pro Bono. Besides reconnecting over family dinners, the Massingills are sure to carve out family time on the weekends for bike rides and runs on the Prairie Path in Naperville, perusing area farmer’s market, fishing and exploring local forest preserves, and sometimes just having coffee together. Overall, The Massingills personal beliefs in family, community, and love have carried over into a business mission that allows everyone to enjoy flavorful snacks safely. Photos by Mike Catuara FABULOUS FAMILIES HEALTH + WELLNESS GLEN ELLYN DUPAGE

FABULOUS FAMILY | Wheaton Family Creates Allergy-Friendly Snack Bars

FABULOUS FAMILY | Wheaton Family Creates Allergy-Friendly Snack Bars

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by Kristen Kucharski FAMILY OF FIVE SHARES ON LIFE, LOVE AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP GENEVA/NAPERVILLE–Take that trip, do the adventure, explore, and live your life to the fullest - “Always Go” – that is the motto Geneva residents, John and Ashley Barley and their three children Declan (11), Scout (3), and Banks (1) – and what an adventure it has been as the owners of Solemn Oath Brewery in Naperville which opened in 2012. As entrepreneurs their free time has been consumed by the brewery but through Solemn Oath they remain wildly active. Each year they work with dozens of charitable organizations across Chicagoland including the Naperville Parks Foundation, the Naperville Area Humane Society, and many others. This year during the pandemic they also had the opportunity to work with some fantastic organizations including My Block, My Hood, My City and Grocery Run Club.  Beyond that, they would typically be either travelling or driving to and from Declan's hockey games across the Midwest with the Geneva Cyclones youth hockey organization. In March, many things changed for the Barley family.  John lost his father, best friend, and business partner to cancer right when the world was shutting down and the business dynamic had to shift dramatically. The market for 60% of their on-premises draft sales had disappeared like a light switch and they had to adapt quickly to survive as a business. Although the year has been a year filled with punch after punch after punch, the Barley’s maintain their “just do it” attitude and persisted on with the camaraderie, hustle, and love of their patrons, family, and each other. With the support of the City of Naperville, in June they built a massive outdoor space called the Solemn Oath Community Beer Garden providing plenty of space for social distancing.  Now during the winter months, it has been converted to a majestic forest fairy tale called the Solemn Oath Community Dome Forest. The Barley’s always live life to its fullest!  Like many, the pandemic has given them a lot more time together, but the nature of their business does not allow for working remotely; however, whenever they are at home as a family, the music is on and every single person is singing and dancing…..“it breeds confidence, humor, and support of each other.” Photos by Mike Catuara FABULOUS FAMILIES DINING & CABARET DUPAGE KANE KENDALL

FABULOUS FAMILY | The Barley Family of Geneva

by Kristen Kucharski FAMILY OF FIVE SHARES ON LIFE, LOVE AND ENTREPRENEURSHIP GENEVA/NAPERVILLE–Take that trip, do the adventure,...

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LEADING WITH ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT, A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE & SO MUCH MORE “Don’t let fear hold you back from trying something new”….that’s the Kiest family motto and it shines in everything they do.  Born and raised in Illinois and Oswego residents since 2005, David and Melissa have been married 23 years and have two daughters, Eva (20) and Alyssa (15).  With true entrepreneurial spirit the family is not afraid to follow their dreams, such as opening a gym where they learned together to work hard and follow proper nutrition, while also gaining amazing confidence from the personal hands-on experience.  As an active family who loves to hike and bike; raft on the Fox; and play tennis together, it was the perfect fit to bring their passions into their daily grind while appreciating the quality time. A healthy lifestyle combined with a great work ethic are ingrained in the Kiest family.  Dave has served as a soldier in the U.S. Army Special Forces, is a former Yorkville and Oswego Police Officer and continues to serve our country in his current position; Eva is attending Waubonsee Community College, finishing up her Associates degree and works as a server at a local restaurant; Alyssa is a Sophomore at Oswego High School, and is involved in Tennis and Cheer; and Melissa has been a Professional Photographer for over 15 years, owns, Melissa Jean Boutique in Oswego, and is also a Real Estate Broker for Brummel Properties in Oswego and enjoying the low interest rates and hot market. They love Fall Fashion as much as they love fitness fancying the new fall styles like letter necklaces, metallics, cardigans and chunky sweaters, balloon sleeves, country inspired fringe, and of course, the fun faux leather leggings and skirts. The girls are into the boyfriend jeans, distressed jeans and crop style tops with chunky necklace chains and coordinating masks! The Kiest family is a busy family that also finds time to take part in organizing and running events which help raise money for wounded vets and the local food pantry. They are members of the Oswego Chamber of Commerce and the Downtown Oswego Association, and are active administrators of the Oswego Area Nightlife and Events and Real Women of Oswego Facebook groups.  A family that loves to dream big, enjoy life, and make it happen! KNOW A FABULOUS FAMILY? Introduce Us at editorial@glancermagazine.com  MORE FABULOUS FAMILIES ALL DUPAGE ALL KANE ALL KENDALL

FABULOUS FAMILY | The Kiest Family of Oswego

LEADING WITH ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT, A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE & SO MUCH MORE “Don’t let fear hold you back from trying something new”….that’s...

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MEET 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; Universal Studios characters; Stranger Things; and book characters. 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 Tuesday 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 following 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 airplane in a hangar at the Aurora Airport and are active participants 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 ALL FABULOUS FAMILIES ALL KANE COUNTY

FABULOUS FAMILY | Celebrating their Favorite Characters Becomes a Family Affair

MEET THE HAYES FAMILY of SUGAR GROVE What happens when you put a financial advisor, music teacher, teenager and grandma together in...

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ONE BIG HAPPY With seven (7) kids there are never really any typical days for the Krake family of Oswego.  According to Lindsey (mom), “It’s controlled chaos - some days more control, some days more chaos; but, always fun.” While David (dad) works as an accountant, Lindsey is a stay at home mom who keeps everyone going in the right directions at the right times! David (18) will be going to college to study cinematography in the Fall, leaving Lindsey and David to manage the other six schedules through Oswego Community School activities, participation in various programs at Community Christian Church in Naperville and Harvest New Beginnings Church in Oswego where Brendan  (17) also plays in the church band; the multitude of Tae Kwon Do sessions; robotics competitions for Alyssa (15); and creative play and art projects with Alli (9), Chloe (8), Emma (6), and Coen (4). Grounding their family in the core belief of working hard, having fun, and helping others, the Krake family feels lucky to have so many people they can count on for love and support.  Growing up in the western suburbs and living across the world from Kobe, Japan to Milwaukee, WI, and back to Oswego, IL again, the Krake’s value the gift of giving back to local and global charities and strongly encourage others to donate time or money to help others stay healthy and safe. Always enjoying outdoor activities, the family recently took advantage of an impromptu photo shoot that included custom t-shirts identifying the timeline of the family’s progression: Mom and Dad of course are the ‘Executive Producers’ ....David, as the first child, is ‘The Original’ ....Brendan, up next is ‘The Remix’ ....Alyssa, the first daughter, brought ‘A Fresh New Beat’ ....Alli, as the second girl, is ‘Remastered’ ....Chloe is their ‘Mix Tape’ ....Emma is the ‘Encore’ ....and Coen closes out the show as the ‘Mic Drop’ The daily production of life with the Krake’s requires everyone to do their part.  Lots of planning, scripting, storyboarding, and everything in between to create the final master copy. ALL FABULOUS FAMILY FEATURES ALL DUPAGE  ALL KANE  ALL KENDALL  GLANCE THROUGH THE JULY ISSUE

FABULOUS FAMILY | Meet the Krake Family of Oswego

ONE BIG HAPPY With seven (7) kids there are never really any typical days for the Krake family of Oswego. According to Lindsey (mom),...

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MEET THE MARTZOLF FAMILY, ALWAYS SMILING It’s a good thing the Martzolf family’s motto is, “Don't be afraid to embarrass yourself,” because with three teenagers in the house, embarrassment can come as easy as standing in the same room 
 together, much less participating in thematic family dinners to pass the time of “sheltering in place”! 
 
 Danny (18), Katie (16), and Karly (13) have taken their new supper routine in stride with their parents Jennifer, an ambassador for the Stella & Dot Family of Brands and Eric, Assistant Principal at Hinsdale South High School. 
 
 The 17-year Plainfield residents and members of Holy Spirit Catholic Community in Naperville have thoroughly enjoyed their quarantine time together.  
 
 “It's crazy how much family time we are getting with three teens in the house when normally we would be running in three different directions - so we are embracing it,” Jennifer says.  “We do daily family walks, board games, and movies 
 together too.” 
 
 This time at home has also given them a chance to clear the clutter and each day they clean and organize one area of the house. 
 
 When Katie suggested doing a Family Theme Dinner - it was well received and started with Hawaiian Night; it was subsequently followed by Frat Boy/ College Night in honor of Danny who had to cut his freshman year short at the University of Kentucky; then Colorado night, in honor or their cancelled Spring Break trip; and proceeded with The Hunger Games, Disney Night and Country Night themes. 
 
 Although they couldn’t take the trips, they certainly created the memories! 
 
 KNOW A FABULOUS FAMILY? Introduce  Us at editorial@glancermagazine.com

FABULOUS FAMILY | Plainfield Family Makes the Most of the 'Shelter In Place' Order

MEET THE MARTZOLF FAMILY, ALWAYS SMILING It’s a good thing the Martzolf family’s motto is, “Don't be afraid to embarrass yourself,”...

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PATTI SAMIEC OF OSWEGO, VOLUNTEER ATRECYCLED ROTTS, INC. 
 
 She grew up in Naperville but has been an Oswego resident for the past 17 years.  Patti’s heart and soul belong to her husband and children - three dogs, Jacie 10.5 years old, Mugsy 9.5 years old, and Stella 1 years old.  “I can't remember a time in my life that I have not had a dog in my life,” Patti says.  “For the last 30 years I have had at least two Rottweilers at a time in my home.”  Taking that love for dogs, Patti has been volunteering at Recycled Rott’s, Inc. in Oswego for the past 20 years and became President in 2002.  Recycled Rott’s, Inc. is a Rottweiler rescue 501(c) 3 corporation founded in Oswego in 1994.  “Our total number of dogs we have taken in between 2000 to 2015 is 2089,” she says.  “We have always run on a shoe string budget with the help of our volunteers and veterinarians.” Although for the past 19 years, Patti has worked a full-time job as a Construction Coordinator for Crestview Builders in Naperville, she commits equal the amount of time to Recycled Rotts processing the more than 400 applications they receive each year to ensure a perfect match for each family.  An added bonus to her day job is that she gets to bring ‘her children’ to work!  This iHeroMom is so thankful for modern day social media and websites like Petfinder and AdoptaPet that expedite placement and educate the public on this dynamic and wonderful breed.  -Kristen Kucharski  Know a West Suburban Hero Mom? 
 
 Introduce Us at editorial@glancermagazine.com #HeroMomstoKnow

HERO MOM TO KNOW | May 2016

PATTI SAMIEC OF OSWEGO, VOLUNTEER ATRECYCLED ROTTS, INC. She grew up in Naperville but has been an Oswego resident for the past 17 years....

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THE STEAMBOAT HOUSE GALENA, ILLINOIS 
 
 If you’re looking for a relaxing weekend getaway that is fairly close to home, then Galena is just the spot. Guests love all of the unique attractions, the quaint shops and more. Treat your favorite mom to a bed & breakfast with classic charm. One that truly stands out is The Steamboat House, a 7,000 sq. ft. grand home featuring a billiard room, library, parlors, fine antique furnishings, huge front porch, gazebo and gardens.  The award-winning inn is one of Galena’s largest and most luxurious mansions situated in a perfect location – just 1.5 blocks from historic Main Street. She’ll love the 3-course breakfast each morning, evening “wine time” and the many places to read and relax.  The Steamboat House has been included in three national cookbooks and many other publications, and now Glancer Magazine. Be sure to check out the many fabulous packages available such as Lift Your Spirits! which is their new distillery and wine tour package.  Choose the “Super Taster” -- includes a tour & tasting at the Blaum Bros. Distillery, a tour/tasting/purchase at Galena Cellars Vineyard & Winery, plus 2 Steamboat House souvenir wineglasses ($65) or the “Little Taste” -- choose either the Distillery or Winery Tour which also includes souvenir wineglasses ($40). Packages must include a 2-night stay.  Remember to give the gift of experience this Mother’s Day and treat her to a charming stay at this Galena favorite. www.thesteamboathouse.com 
 
 -Lindy Kleivo #TrendyTraveler #GlancerMagazine #TravelLeisure #April2016 #LindyKleivo

TRENDY TRAVELER | April 2016

THE STEAMBOAT HOUSE GALENA, ILLINOIS If you’re looking for a relaxing weekend getaway that is fairly close to home, then Galena is just...

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MAMA MIA! 
 
 Brunch Italiano Style Looking for a perfect place to treat mom that’s filled with rich tradition? Then head to Buca di Beppo in Lombard where they serve up authentic Italian cuisine in a fun, eclectic, vintage setting. Dishes are served family-style, meant to be shared by everyone at the table and every dish tastes delightful. Mom will love you for it! www.bucadibeppo.com       MOTHER NATURE Eats & Outdoor Treats If you love the great outdoors and all that Mother Nature stands for, then celebrate Mom and all that she stands for at Morton Arboretum‘s Mother’s Day Brunch at Ginkgo Restaurant on Sunday, May 8. Enjoy all of her favorites, plus a world class kid’s buffet every parent will love! Seatings at 9am, noon, and 3pm. www.mortonarb.org     TAPAS TIME 
 
 Moms Love It! Mom will feel wonderful after brunch with all of her favorite people at Meson Sabika in Naperville. Indulge in a medley of delectable cold and hot tapas, paella and other specialties. A special treat is that each guest over 21 will receive a complimentary glass of Champagne or Mimosa. Cheers! Reservations fill up fast. www.mesonsabika.com    HAZEL, ANYONE? 
 
 Brunch & A Musical Treat your sweet mom to a beautiful day filled with fun. What better way to celebrate Mother's Day than with her entire family at Drury Lane? Before or after brunch, take her to the theatre for the world premiere musical "Hazel" directed and choreographed by Emmy Award Winner Joshua Bergasse. She will be so happy you did! www.drurylane.com #OnTheFunFront

ON THE FUN FRONT | April 2016

MAMA MIA! Brunch Italiano Style Looking for a perfect place to treat mom that’s filled with rich tradition? Then head to Buca di Beppo...

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THE WILLIAMS FAMILY of WHEATON 
 
 Having been raised on the south side of Wheaton and assuming the role in his family's business as 4th Generation Owner/Funeral Director at Williams-Kampp Funeral Homes in Wheaton and West Chicago, Dan bleeds west suburban blood through and through; so it was a natural choice for he and his wife, Jenny, to purchase their family home in 2007 and raise their son, Aaron.  
  
 
 Jenny received her BA in Psychology at Aurora University and a MAT-LBS1 from National Louis University in Lisle. She continues her career as Vocational Coordinator/ Teacher at Wheaton North High School.  
  
 
 The couple extends their west suburban outreach to membership at St. Irene’s Catholic Church in Warrenville and weekly Sunday dinners with extended family. Their network expands to Dan’s Wheaton Lion’s Club membership and Jenny’s affiliation with DuPage TPC (Transition Planning Committee). 
  
 
 From shopping at Danada Square, to eating at their favorite Wheaton restaurant, Front Street Cantina, to watching Aaron play basketball at the Glen Ellyn YMCA, the Williams family feels as though they are living the American dream.  “We are grateful for the opportunities that have come our way, have provided each other continuous support and look forward to what the future holds" Jenny shares.  “We are fortunate to be able to give back to our local community through our daily work.” 
  
 
 With couture and fashion at the forefront this month, The Williams love shopping at the Chicago Premium Outlet Mall. While Jenny frequents J Crew and Express, Dan and Aaron can be found expanding their athletic shoe collection at Nike and Under Amour.  Overall, this family values all the positives in their lives and love living in the west suburbs of Chicago. -Kristen Kucharski, Photos by Mike Mantucca

FABULOUS FAMILY | April 2016

THE WILLIAMS FAMILY of WHEATON Having been raised on the south side of Wheaton and assuming the role in his family's business as 4th...

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7 SPECTACULAR ON-TREND PLACES FOR MOM THIS SPRING Moms love to be on trend, as hard as it may be at times! With juggling crazy car pool schedules and meetings with the boss, it can be challenging to find time to shop for the latest styles. And when we do have time, we often find ourselves asking the question of where to go so we won’t feel rushed or overwhelmed while browsing, but leave feeling satisfied. Get ready to shop, because we have just the places in mind...7 of them to be exact!  1. Evereve 
 
 Founded in 2004, Evereve (formerly Hot Mama) was built around the theme of motherhood. Founders Megan and Mike Tamte, created an upscale boutique that is a fashion resource for moms by offering on-trend, contemporary apparel + accessories that fits a mom’s lifestyle. Just be a mom. They'll take care of the rest. Naperville & Wheaton. www.evereve.com  2. Jeans & a Cute Top Shop 
 
 A friendly, and affordable, contemporary women’s boutique located in Wheaton, Downers Grove, and St. Charles. There are no surprises when you enter each sunshine-inspired shop, as they stay true to their concept of featuring jeans and cute tops, but also jackets, sweaters, shoes,  jewelry, accessories & dresses. www.jeansandacutetopshop.com  3. Anew 
 
 Is your wardrobe looking a little tired? Renew your look without paying new prices. Anew is designed for women and teens in the Fox Valley who are discriminating shoppers, but also wish to be responsible in their spending. The on-trend boutique consignment shop is a popular place on the Geneva retail scene. www.anewwaytoshop.com  4. Bella Roba 
 
 You will love this high-style bazaar with an eclectic mix of clothing, jewelry, accessories, antiques, furniture, home decor and fond items. Known for on-trend and unique pieces, this place will leave you clicking your heels with complete happiness. Located downtown Wheaton. 
 www.bella-roba.com 
 5. Glam & Glitz Boutique 
 
 The philosophy that this chic boutique has in approaching each customer is integrity. Their aim is never to sell anything that does not compliment their clients (we love that!). Not only do they want you to leave the Boutique with a wardrobe that brings your style a little more fashion forward, but they are all about helping you feel beautiful! Party packages for your stylish girl also available. 
 www.glamandglitzonline.com  6. Boutique Repeats 
 
 Fun and fashion all in one! This area boutique provides customers with new and gently used clothes, purses, jewelry and so much more. They buy, consign and sell designer and better brand name women’s apparel, accessories, home decor and furniture. Each time you visit, you will be so impressed with what’s new. This place is truly one of a kind. Located in Aurora on Eola. www.boutiquerepeat.com  7. Kie & Kate Couture This Elmhurst boutique is on trend and ready for you to indulge in all of your favorites! Women’s clothing, handbags, accessories, jewelry, candles, inspirational signs & pillows, gourmet treats and so much more. You’ll love browsing this unique shop so much that you’ll want to book a shopping party for your favorite gal pals that includes Karaoke, a party favor bag, a props trunk and more. www.kiekatecouture.com 
 
 WATCH FOR A NEW 7 SPECTACULAR LIST IN EVERY ISSUE OF GLANCER MAGAZINE – SUBSCRIBE TODAY! #7SpectacularList

7 SPECTACULAR LIST | April 2016

7 SPECTACULAR ON-TREND PLACES FOR MOM THIS SPRING Moms love to be on trend, as hard as it may be at times! With juggling crazy car pool...

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NOT ALL BULLIES YELL AND THROW THINGS: HOW TO SURVIVE A SUBTLE WORKPLACE BULLY 
 
 Glory Borgeson, Wheaton Before embarking on this literary journey, the author became concerned about the targets of workplace bullying and what people experience - enormous amounts of stress, many types of medical conditions, subtle humiliations at work, fear of losing their job or actually losing their job, and more. She wanted to create a tool in the form of a book that helps them decide what to do to get the bullying to stop, how to navigate their decision processes, how to lower their stress level, and how to know when it's best to find a new job. The book was published in 2015 and is the 7th book for Glory. 
 
 This book defines workplace bullying from the standpoint of the target. Subtle bullying is so covert that targets will wonder why they're experiencing stress symptoms such as chest pain, headaches, loss of sleep, loss of concentration, and other symptoms. 
 
 “My hope is that the book helps people stop the workplace bullying in their lives so that they can get back their dignity, self respect, career, and good health,” said Glory. Available at www.amazon.com 
 
 She recently published her first fiction book, "Mocked", under the pen name Liv Parker. She also has two online courses on Udemy.com - one course teaches how to make money from your videos on YouTube; the other is for people in their 20s on how to be smarter about their job search to win the job over heir peers. 
 THE “I HAVE...” SERIES 
 
 Colleen LeMaire, Oswego Colleen LeMaire grew up in St. Charles and lives in Oswego with her husband and stepdaughter. Her first book published in 2014, she has since published another with a third in the process. 
 
 “I started this series because I needed it. As my stepdaughter has grown up, she has asked some tough questions. Unfortunately, many adults don’t always have the best answers, and their emotions get the best of them,” said the author, who feels very strongly about shielding children from discussions meant for adults. 
 
 “Wanting to help my stepdaughter thrive, I searched high and low for a children’s book that would help her understand the grown-up topic of divorce but on a kid-friendly level.  I saw a mountain of resources for adults experiencing divorce, but I saw very little for the kids,” said the author. 
 
 She wants her readers to know that it’s okay to not always know the right words to say. Let these pages do the talking, and spark healthy conversations in your family. Available at www.amazon.com/author/colleenlemaire 
 
 I Have A Stepdad is currently in process, and from there will come I Have Two Moms, I Have Two Dads, I Have A Guardian Angel, I Have A Sibling With Special Needs, I Have A Sibling In Heaven, I Have A Transgender Parent, and more!  TOGETHER IN THE DREAM: THE UNIQUE CAREERS OF A HUSBAND & WIFE IN THE EARLY DECADES OF WALT DISNEY WORLD 
 
 Suzanne & R.J. Ogren, Naperville This is the first published work together for these local authors. Suzanne has a story in "Chicken Soup for the Soul: The Gift of Christmas (published 2010). R.J. has illustrated two books: "Willard the Wizard" (now in the Smithsonian archives), and "George C. Marshall: Soldier and Statesman" (published by the George C. Marshall Foundation). 
 
 Their passion for this unique project comes from their love of all things Disney, a combined goal of working for the Disney organization, and their desire to have their unique stories shared. 
 
 The book includes humorous and touching stories of both backstage and onstage magic of Walt Disney World in the 70s, 80s and 90s. It encompasses R.J.’s work as a Audio-Animatronic management artist, painting all the attraction figures, and Suzanne's work, starting on monorails, then to Characters, and eventually to Entertainment Management. Available through www.themeparkpress.com, Amazon, and Kindle. Also available at Anderson's Bookshop in Naperville. 
 
 More books are on the horizon for each of the authors– some of them will be Disney themed. 
  #LiteraryLocals

LITERARY LOCALS | Glory Borgeson, Wheaton; Colleen LeMaire, Oswego; Suzanne & R.J. Ogren, Naperv

NOT ALL BULLIES YELL AND THROW THINGS: HOW TO SURVIVE A SUBTLE WORKPLACE BULLY Glory Borgeson, Wheaton Before embarking on this literary...

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