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This Not-to-Miss Concert Series Will Feature Six Nights of Music and So Much More! NAPERVILLE— Naper Settlement’s 2024 Naper Nights Community Concert Series will feature tributes to some of the greatest musicians in pop, rock, disco, country and more from the 1960s to today, as well as performances by nationally-recognized artists A.J. Croce and Samantha Fish. Visitors will enjoy six nights of music along with a variety of local cuisine and alcoholic beverages on June 14-15, July 19-20, and August 16-17 from 5-10 p.m. Tickets are now on sale, with admission $20 adults and $15 youth 4-12. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit NaperNights.org. “Naper Nights is a community celebration of influential musicians and bands from the past and present, and this year we’re excited to introduce a few original artists to our lineup,” said Adison Glick, special events senior team leader at Naper Settlement. “With picturesque Naper Settlement as the venue backdrop, concertgoers can enjoy the beautiful surroundings while experiencing the sounds of incredible musicians, chowing down on delicious bites from local restaurants, and sipping on refreshing drinks.” Naper Nights 2024 lineup: June 14: 6 p.m. Tina Turner Tribute (Simply the Best); 8 p.m. Disco Night (Boogie Wonder Band) June 15: 6 p.m. Flaming Lips Tribute (Sun Stereo); 8 p.m. Coldplay Tribute (Fix You) July 19: 6 p.m. Country Hits (Hillbilly Rockstarz); 8 p.m. Garth Brooks Tribute (The Ultimate Garth Brooks Tribute) July 20: 6 p.m. Soulful Sounds (The Heavy Sounds featuring Gina Bloom & Renaldo Domino); 8 p.m. Croce Plays Croce 50th Anniversary Tour August 16: 6 p.m. Americana Rock (Old Shoe); 8 p.m. Samantha Fish August 17: 6 p.m. Pop Hits Party (One Night Band); 8 p.m. Taylor Swift Tribute (Sparks Fly) Naper Settlement thanks the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) for providing support for its special events season through the Tourism Private Sector Grant Program. LEARN MORE

Today, TIME reveals the 2024 TIME100, its annual list of the 100 most influential people in the world The issue has 4 worldwide covers, each highlighting a member of the TIME100: singer-songwriter Dua Lipa, football quarterback Patrick Mahomes, actor Taraji P. Henson, and Yulia Navalnaya, a leader of Russia's opposition movement. The TIME100 list includes surprising pairings of the list members, and the guest contributors TIME selects to write about them. The twenty-first annual list features: Alex Rodriguez on Patrick Mahomes, Burna Boy on 21 Savage, Maren Morris on Jack Antonoff, Blake Lively on America Ferrera, Kate Hudson on Leslie Odom Jr., Michelle Obama on Thelma Golden, Jon Huntsman on William Lai, Naomi Watts on Tory Burch, Tom Brady on A'ja Wilson, Mark Zuckerberg on Jensen Huang, Ryan Reynolds on Michael J. Fox, Richard Branson on Jigar Shah, Joe Biden on Shawn Fain, and more. TIME Chief Executive Officer Jessica Sibley said: "The influence recognized on this year's TIME100 list of the world's most influential people spans industries and continents. With our TIME100 partners, we are proud to convene the newest members of the TIME100 community for a day of conversation at the TIME100 Summit and for our annual TIME100 Gala, which we will once again bring viewers inside with a primetime special on ABC." Of the 2024 TIME100 list, TIME Editor in Chief Sam Jacobs writes in his letter to readers, "Influence, we know, is complex: it can be for better and for worse, it can span generations, categories, and perspectives…Now in our 101st year, TIME continues to evolve. Today, we convene our TIME100 community across the globe, with events spanning 12 cities and four continents…. TIME100 is an unparalleled way for us to tell essential stories about the people and ideas that shape and improve the world." https://bit.ly/3JeuKJE HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE 2024 TIME100: Other notable writers include Kamala Harris, Mary J. Blige, Amy Poehler, Padma Lakshmi, Hillary Rodham Clinton, Anderson Cooper, Ashton Kutcher, Anthony Fauci, Zoe Saldaña, Tarana Burke, Salma Hayek, Lenny Kravitz and more. This year's list features 51 women, including Sofia Coppola, Kylie Minogue, Dua Lipa, Fantasia Barrino, Taraji P. Henson, Yulia Navalnaya, Jenny Holzer, Kelly Sawyer Patricof, Norah Weinstein, Joanne Crevoiserat, Alia Bhatt, Lauren Groff, Kelly Ripa, Rachel Goldberg-Polin and others. The list features world leaders and other U.S. political figures including William Burns, Greg Abbott, Ajay Banga, Diana Salazar Méndez, Jack Smith, Elise Stefanik, Donald Tusk, Andriy Yermak, Marina Silva, Mohammed bin Abdul­rahman Al Thani and more. Over a dozen entertainers are featured on this year's list, including Elliot Page, Burna Boy, Dua Lipa, 21 Savage, Jeffrey Wright, Kylie Minogue, Fantasia Barrino, America Ferrera, Taraji P. Henson, Maya Rudolph, Da'Vine Joy Randolph, Colman Domingo, Dev Patel, Alex Edelman and more. Athletes on this year's list include: Max Verstappen, Patrick Mahomes, Siya Kolisi, A'ja Wilson, Jenni Hermoso and Sakshi Malik. Fashion, visual and literary arts icons featured include: Jenny Holzer, Tory Burch, Jonathan Anderson, LaToya Ruby Frazier, Thelma Golden, James McBride and more, as well as media figures and journalists including Kelly Ripa, Connie Walker, Motaz Azaiza and E. Jean Carroll. Satya Nadella and Patrick Mahomes are both on the list for the 3rd time, more than any other person on the list this year. Other repeats include: America Ferrera (2), Taraji P. Henson (2), Hayao Miyazaki (2), Michael J. Fox (2), and Jensen Huang (2). Motaz Azaiza, 25 years old, is the youngest person on this year's list. The oldest person on this year's list is Joel Habener,  who is 86 years old. THE 2024 TIME100 SUMMIT AND GALA: TIME will celebrate the 2024 TIME100 list of the world's most influential people at the TIME100 Summit on April 24 and the TIME100 Gala on April 25 in New York City. The gala will air as a primetime television special on May 12 on ABC. The fourth-annual TIME100 Summit will convene leaders from the global TIME100 community to spotlight solutions and encourage action toward a better world. Speakers for the day-long event include: singer-songwriter, actor and entrepreneur Selena Gomez, actor and producer Elliot Page, actor and activist Jane Fonda, Tory Burch executive chairman and chief creative officer Tory Burch, professional basketball player A'ja Wilson, 68th U.S. secretary of state John Kerry, comedian, writer, producer and actor, Alex Edelman, and many more. The 18th annual gala will be hosted by Taraji P. Henson, and feature performances by Dua Lipa and Fantasia Barrino, the presentation of a TIME Impact Award to Michael J. Fox, as well as special appearances by Patrick Mahomes, Maya Rudolph, Kelley Robinson, 21 Savage and other members of this year's list, remarks from TIME CEO Jessica Sibley and Editor in Chief Sam Jacobs, and more. The 2024 TIME100 Summit and the TIME100 Gala are presented by premier partner Booking.com, signature partners Citi, Merck and Northern Data Group, supporting partners Glenfiddich Single Malt Scotch Whisky and Verizon. For the fifth year in a row, TIME Studios and ABC will present a "TIME100" primetime television special; and for the third year in a row, the television special will bring viewers inside the 18th annual TIME100 Gala, airing Sunday, May 12 (10:01-11:00 p.m. EDT), on ABC, which will be available to stream the next day on Hulu. The 2024 "TIME100: The World's Most Influential People" television special will be created by TIME Studios, the Emmy Award®-winning television and film division of TIME, produced in partnership with P&G, and presented by supporting partner Glenfiddich Single Malt Scotch Whisky.

Annual List of 100 Most Exciting Hotel Openings of the Year Now Includes Cruise Ships for the First Time This week, Travel + Leisure announces the 19th annual It List, a meticulously curated list of the best new and renovated hotels across the globe, which for the first time includes newly launched luxury cruise ships. In-depth coverage of this year's It List is now available online, and in the May 2024 issue of Travel + Leisure, which hits newsstands April 19. Travel + Leisure May 2024 Issue This year, Travel + Leisure's guide to the can't miss openings (and re-openings) covers everything from boutique hotels in Morocco and Portugal to grand resorts along the serene beaches of Mexico and Greece. The selected hotels and cruise ships span 39 countries across six continents and represent a variety of categories such as Best New City Hotels and Best New Affordable Luxury Hotels, showcasing the broad spectrum of travel experiences. "The 2024 It List is a celebration of transformation and discovery, spotlighting hidden gems and reborn icons across the globe, as well as luxury cruises for the first time," said Jacqui Gifford, Editor in Chief of Travel + Leisure. "Each selection on this year's list–including our cover star, the Hotel Vermelho in Melides, Portugal, designed by Christian Louboutin–represents the transformative power of travel. These hotels and ships are destinations in their own right, providing not just accommodation but a profound sense of connection, comfort, and delight far from home." Spotlighting the 100 best new hotels, resorts and luxury cruise ships that made the biggest impressions on Travel + Leisure editors and contributors, the 2024 It List features 4 cruise lines, 36 hotels in North America, 26 in Europe, 7 in the Caribbean and Central and South America, 10 in Africa and the Middle East, 14 in Asia, and 3 in Australia. To see the full list of all 100 hotels along with descriptions about why each one made this year's list, visit travelandleisure.com/it-list. How the It List hotels and cruise ships are selected: over the past year, the editors reviewed hundreds of new and renovated properties across the globe, which were then narrowed to just 100 in total. Each hotel has been vetted by Travel + Leisure editors and contributors.

Plans Unveiled During a Presentation at Soldier Field Wednesday CHICAGO–The Chicago Bears unveiled plans for a new lakefront stadium Wednesday during a presentation at Soldier Field. The Bears will invest $2 billion of what's reportedly a $4.6 billion project, according to the Sun-Times. Chicago mayor Brandon Johnson said the building of a new Bears stadium will "result in no new taxes on the residents of Chicago." “This is not an easy project, but Chicago doesn’t like it easy," said Bears president/CEO Kevin Warren. "We like to do the difficult things ... the things that resonate with people for generations to come,” Bears President Kevin Warren told a news conference Wednesday afternoon at Soldier Field. The Bears shared renderings of a state-of-the-art, domed stadium along Chicago's lakefront atop the current South Parking lot of Soldier Field. The renderings feature an all-glass roof, keeping the historic colonnades in place and shares some similarities with Allegiant Stadium (Las Vegas) and U.S. Bank Stadium (Minnesota). Here are the renderings, along with a video, released by the team, via ChicagoBears.com. VIEW STADIUM This article originally appeared on Bears Wire: LOOK: Renderings for Bears' new lakefront stadium in Chicago

$1,650,000 Elegant New Construction Property at 461 Aurora Ave, Naperville Nestled in the heart of Naperville, IL, the new construction property at 461 Aurora Ave epitomizes elegance and luxury. Boasting meticulous attention to detail and modern design aesthetics, this residence is a true gem in the vibrant Naperville real estate market. Featuring spacious interiors with high-end finishes, this property offers the perfect blend of sophistication and comfort. From the sleek gourmet kitchen to the stylish master suite, every corner of this home exudes quality craftsmanship and refined living. The location of 461 Aurora Ave further enhances its appeal, situated in a sought-after neighborhood known for its charm and convenience. Residents can enjoy easy access to downtown Naperville's shopping and dining scene, top-rated schools, and picturesque parks, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a quintessential Naperville lifestyle. This property perfectly aligns with the essence of Naperville living, offering a serene retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life while still being within reach of urban amenities. Whether you're relaxing in the beautifully landscaped backyard or taking a leisurely stroll through the neighborhood, 461 Aurora Ave provides a tranquil sanctuary that harmonizes with the laid-back yet vibrant Naperville atmosphere. In conclusion, 461 Aurora Ave stands out as a premier new construction property that embodies elegance, luxury, and the coveted Naperville lifestyle. Don't miss the opportunity to make this exquisite residence your own and experience the best of Naperville living firsthand.

Exciting News for Iconic Chicago Venue CHICAGO–Get your sunglasses and beach towels ready because the ultimate Chicago summer hotspot is getting a vibrant makeover for the upcoming season! It will reopen with a new name, enhanced look, elevated food and beverage offerings and additional seating as well as private event options. Located at 1603 N. Lake Shore Dr., Castaways Beach Club is set to unveil its revamped beachfront oasis just in time for Memorial Day Weekend. Formerly known as Castaways Bar & Grill, this iconic boat-shaped venue nestled between North Avenue Beach and the stunning Chicago skyline is gearing up to welcome all you sun-seekers and beach lovers. What to Expect New Look, New Vibe: With two stories and a whopping 22,000 square feet of space, including dining decks, chic bar areas, rentable cabanas, and breezy patio space, get ready to experience a fresh take on lakeside lounging. Upgrades Galore: From snazzy furniture to dazzling lighting and a revamped layout, Castaways Beach Club is pulling out all the stops to ensure your summer days are filled with style and comfort. Owner's Excitement In the words of owner Anthony Stefani, "The lakefront is Chicago’s front yard, and Castaways has long been a part of that. We are thrilled to deliver a new and refreshed experience this summer, promising an unparalleled summertime adventure for our city. Get ready to come aboard and make waves with us!" Don't Miss Out While the North End Club will cater to patrons over 21, families and kids can still enjoy the vibrant restaurant area, serving up delicious lunches and dinners alongside a tempting cocktail menu. For more details and to join in the excitement, sail over to Castaways' website and get ready to soak up the sun in style! Let's make this summer one to remember at Castaways Beach Club - where every day feels like a vacation! 🌞🏖️🍹

Walking Distance to Charming Third Street In the heart of Geneva's Historic District lies a gem that epitomizes the charm and elegance of Spanish colonial revival architecture. The residence at 428 Franklin St stands as a testament to timeless design and prime location. Prominently located just a short stroll away from the Third Street Metra station, this home offers unparalleled convenience for commuters and residents alike. Its proximity to Geneva's vibrant Third Street, brimming with boutique shops and culinary delights, further enhances its allure. Upon arrival to this charming home, the classic stucco exterior, diamond leaded glass windows, and clay tile roof captivate the eye, hinting at the grandeur within. Step inside to discover a space adorned with intricate wrought iron railings, three cozy fireplaces, and a delightful screened-in porch that beckons relaxation. The main level hosts the master suite, a sanctuary boasting hardwood floors, a luxurious whirlpool tub, and generous dimensions perfect for unwinding. Upstairs, the remaining bedrooms continue the theme of elegance with hardwood flooring and ample natural light. The property's layout includes a dining room, family room with slate flooring, and a kitchen featuring hardwood floors – each space meticulously designed for both functionality and aesthetic appeal. Practical amenities like a laundry room in the basement and a 2-car attached garage add to the home's convenience. With a lot size of 9,100 square feet nestled in Geneva's Historic District, this residence presents a rare opportunity to own a piece of Geneva's history. Boasting classic design elements, spacious interiors, and a coveted location near downtown Geneva, this iconic Spanish colonial revival home is a true architectural marvel awaiting discerning buyers seeking sophistication and character. Listed by Sam Lang• @properties Christie's International Real Estate VIEW LISTING

MAY 4-MAY 12 • 95th ANNIVERSARY EVENT WITH OVER 5 MILLION TULIPS IN BLOOM As the long winter days yield to the warm sun of spring, Holland, Michigan prepares to celebrate its most vibrant tradition: Tulip Time. Scheduled for 2024, this festival is a testament to the city's rich Dutch heritage and a spectacular display of tulips in myriad colors. Every year, Tulip Time adorns the charming streets of Holland with over five million tulips, creating a rainbow palette that captivates visitors from all corners of the globe. The 2024 celebration is shaping up to be particularly enchanting, as the community comes together to plant and showcase these delicate blooms. Tulip Time is not merely about the flowers; it encompasses a range of activities that incite joy and community spirit. Parades wind through the city, featuring beautifully decorated floats, marching bands, and locals donning traditional Dutch costumes, paying homage to the heritage that defines this unique festival. For those seeking a deep cultural experience, Tulip Time 2024 offers more than just visual splendor. The festival brims with traditional music and dance performances, Dutch food, and immersive historical tours that provide a glance back into the Dutch roots of the city. Artisans and craftsmen join in the festivities, setting up stalls at the various markets where handcrafted goods and local treasures can be found. From Dutch klompen (wooden shoes) to intricate Delftware ceramics, each stall proudly represents the craftsmanship of Holland, Michigan. Families can delight in events designed for all ages, including the famous Tulip Time Run, trolley rides, and the Kinderplaats—a fun zone dedicated to children’s entertainment and learning. The Tulip Time festival strengthens the bonds of community and beckons visitors to relish in Holland’s charm and hospitality. As the town prepares for Tulip Time 2024, the anticipation builds for what is to be a celebration of beauty, culture, and the arrival of spring, enveloped in the unforgettable scent and sight of tulips. Whether you're a seasoned festival-goer or a newcomer eager to experience the allure of Holland in bloom, Tulip Time 2024 is an event that promises to be a feast for the senses and a colorful pageant of floral magnificence. LEARN MORE

OFFBEAT & TOTALLY FUN THINGS TO DO IN CHICAGO Spring & Summer in Chicago are more than just Lake Michigan swims and Millennium Park picnics. The weather gets warmer, and the city comes alive with a vibrant scene that celebrates the quirks and charms that make it truly unique. Whether you’re a visitor looking to escape the ordinary or a local resident seeking new adventures, Chicago’s offbeat activities promise memorable experiences. This feature is your ticket to discovering 10 kitschy things to do in the Windy City this summer. From untold stories in hidden speakeasies to quirky air shows, these activities are sure to offer a fresh perspective on Chitown. 10 Offbeat Chicago Experiences You Can't Miss 1. Relive the Rat Pack Era at Green Mill Cocktail Lounge Escape into the jazz age at the legendary Green Mill Cocktail Lounge, a favorite haunt of the Rat Pack. The ambient lighting, velvet furniture, and the original bar set the perfect stage for live jazz performances. It’s not just a step into the past, but a cultural delight that still thrives in the present. Best time to visit: evenings for live music or mid-afternoon for the historic atmosphere. 2. Have a Zany-Good Time at Kitsch'n in Rosco Village One kitschy restaurant in Chicago that's fun for a weekend visit is Kitsch'n On Roscoe. Located in Chicago's charming Roscoe Village Neighborhood, Kitsch'n has been serving up new takes on breakfast, lunch, and brunch favorites daily since 1998. It offers a zany-fun theme with a delightful ambiance perfect for a leisurely weekend meal experience. Customers praise the delicious food, lovely hidden patio, fabulous bloody marys, and unique dishes like green eggs and ham. It's a great spot to enjoy a quirky dining experience while exploring the vibrant culinary scene of Chicago. Best time to visit: Sunday brunch 3. Head to the Garfield Park Conservatory for a Palm House Party The Garfield Park Conservatory’s historic Palm House is more than a hotbed of tropical plants; it’s a relic from the 19th century. An architectural gem complete with a collection of palms and ferns, its striking dome and ornate ironwork evoke the feeling of an exotic garden party straight from the days of Gilded Age Chicago. At 65 ft high and 90 ft wide, this is the largest room in the Conservatory. Best time to visit: weekdays to avoid weekend crowds. 4. Discover Forgotten Speakeasies on a Prohibition-Era Walking Tour Uncover Chicago’s covert history with a Prohibition-Era Walking Tour. Led by historians, these tours take you down alleyways to former speakeasies that now live hidden in plain sight. Each tour weaves a tale of secret passwords, mobster lore, and architectural remnants that tell a rich story of the Roaring Twenties. Best time to visit: late afternoon for mild weather and better storytelling acoustics. 5. Meet the 'Czars' of Chicago's Scene at the Money Museum The Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago’s Money Museum offers a behind-the-scenes look at the world of currency, where you can see rare bills, historical coins, and the production process in action. Engage with interactive exhibits, and even take home your own bag of money shredded for souvenirs. Best time to visit: check for guided tours that offer additional insights. 6. Get Insta-Famous at the Colorful Chicago Murals Chicago is a canvas for vibrant street art, and these larger-than-life murals have taken over social media feeds. From the iconic ‘Greetings from Chicago’ mural in Logan Square to the colorful explosion on Hubbard Street, these murals are not only artistic but are an ode to the city’s diverse culture and history. Check them out on your own or schedule a fun and unique tour. Best time to visit: during the golden hour for the best lighting and fewer people. 7. Witness the Air and Water Show from a Secret Spot Every August, the Air and Water Show wows millions with aerobatic stunts on the lakefront. Instead of battling the crowds at Navy Pier, opt for a unique view at one of the city's lesser-known vantage points. Local favorites include the breakwater at Fullerton Beach or the Adler Planetarium lawn. Best time to visit: early morning for the Parade of Ships or late afternoon for twilight stunts. 8. Absorb the Atmosphere at the International Museum of Surgical Science Nestled in a historic mansion overlooking Lake Michigan, the International Museum of Surgical Science offers a wide-eyed look into the history of surgery, medicine, and anatomy. With ancient artifacts, interactive exhibits, and rotating contemporary art installations, it’s a one-of-a-kind museum, perfect for those fascinated by science and history. Best time to visit: for a different perspective, in the evening during special After Dark events. 9. Stargaze in the City at the Adler Planetarium Chicago’s Adler Planetarium is an often-overlooked treasure for stargazers. In addition to its impressive collection of antique instruments for celestial observation, the planetarium’s telescope offers breath-taking views of the night sky and special programs that bring the cosmos closer to the public. Best time to visit: for the least light pollution, go on a clear weeknight. 10. Slide Down the Sculptural Slides at Maggie Daley Park Maggie Daley Park’s sculptural slides are not just for kids; they’re an architectural feature that merges art and play. The 40-foot towers feed into a curving, twisting slide which plunges down to the base, offering a fun and thrilling way to survey the Chicago skyline. It’s a delightful twist on the traditional park experience. Best time to visit: afternoon to burn off lunchtime energy. Practical Tips for Exploring the Kitschy Side of Chicago Making the Most of Public Transportation The Chicago Transit Authority (CTA) is the lifeline of the city’s public transportation system. Venturing out via the 'L' train or bus routes can not only save you money but also ease the burden of parking in a city notorious for traffic. Plus, it's a great way to see more of the city's neighborhoods. Family-Friendly Options For those traveling with kids, consider the Chicago Children’s Museum at Navy Pier, the Lincoln Park Zoo for a fun day out, or a scenic boat tour along the Chicago River. These family-friendly destinations are low-stress and high-reward. The Art of Safety in a Big City Chicago is generally safe for tourists, but it's always smart to practice common sense. Stick to well-lit, populated areas, be mindful of your belongings, and consider using digital wallets or travel insurance for added peace of mind. Local Insights on Chicago’s Kitschy Allure Local Chicagoans appreciate the city’s kitschy side as a part of its character. They recommend exploring neighborhoods like Pilsen, Wicker Park, or Andersonville to see grassroots culture at its most colorful. And don't forget to try the local food – from a Chicago-style hot dog to a deep-dish pizza. OVERVIEW Chicago’s summer scene is a mosaic of kitschy activities that promise more than mere entertainment. They offer an immersion into the city's rich history, innovative culture, and eclectic charm. This list is just the starting point; Chicago has countless other surprises tucked away in its vibrant neighborhoods. Whether you’re drawn to the relics of the past, the artsy present, or the breathtaking skyline, Chicago’s kitschy experiences will enrich your stay and leave you with a new appreciation for the city. Remember, the true magic of travel lies in the stories you bring back with you, and in Chicago, there’s no shortage of stories waiting to be lived.

To celebrate the community grocer's 10th birthday, Fresh Thyme Market is asking local bakeries to submit their better-for-you recipes by April 26 for a chance to win a grand prize of $5,000 for their business and an additional $5,000 toward a charity DOWNERS GROVE– Fresh Thyme Market, a full-service specialty natural foods and grocery retailer with 70 stores in 10 states throughout the Midwest, is giving local bakeries the chance to win $10,000 in celebration of its 10th birthday. To honor a decade of freshness, Fresh Thyme Market is inviting local bakeries to submit fresh, better-for-you cake recipes for a chance to be named the brand's official 10th birthday cake, plus a cash prize of $5,000 for their business, an additional $5,000 donation towards a Fresh Thyme Market local Feeding America food bank, and mentorship from an expert panel*. To honor a decade of freshness, Fresh Thyme Market is inviting local bakeries to submit fresh, better-for-you cake recipes for a chance to be named the brand’s official 10th birthday cake, plus a cash prize of $5,000 for their business, an additional $5,000 donation towards a Fresh Thyme Market local Feeding America food bank, and mentorship from an expert panel*. "We are excited to celebrate our 10th birthday with this contest that not only honors our commitment to fresh, wholesome ingredients, but showcases the talented bakeries in our communities," said Liz Zolcak, president at Fresh Thyme Market. "At Fresh Thyme, we're dedicated to helping provide consumers with healthier solutions for real living, including during those moments of celebration. Better-for-you can look different to different people, and we're proud to be a go-to resource for both everyday shoppers and bakers looking for these types of products." Fresh Thyme Market invites all local bakeries and community members in the communities it operates in to celebrate the brand's 10th birthday by submitting a cake recipe or casting a vote for the winner. Local bakeries with a Fresh Thyme Market in their state** are invited to submit the following at freshthyme.com from today until April 26, 2024 at 11:59pm CT*: Their winning better-for-you cake recipe using one produce item, one alternative flour, and three other Fresh Thyme Market-branded ingredients A video answering the question, "How do you shop at Fresh Thyme Market?" Three finalists will have their cakes sampled during in-store events on May 18, 2024 at all Fresh Thyme Market locations. Shoppers at these locations will have the opportunity to taste and vote for their favorite cake to be named the winner. Plus, Fresh Thyme Market is raffling off 10 Fresh Thyme Market gift cards valued at $100 each to shoppers who participate. Since 2014, Fresh Thyme Market has been the go-to Midwest destination for local, fresh, and quality food. What started with a single location in Illinois has now flourished into 70 stores across 10 states and a growing team of over 4,000 individuals, all united by Fresh Thyme Market's commitment to quality products and service. Looking towards the future, Fresh Thyme Market is proud to continue being a place for shoppers to discover the latest trends and experience the latest in innovation. Here's to another decade of freshness, community, and supporting local businesses. To learn more and find a Fresh Thyme Market location near you, visit freshthyme.com. See website for Official Contest Rules

Summer Will Be Heating Up with these New Styles Vintage-inspired fashion brand Retro Stage has announced the release of their newest collection, which takes inspiration from the carefree warmth of summertime. Lovers of retro and nostalgic styles will be able to relax in style and channel their adoration for retro fashion all throughout the season. Retro Stage Gears Up for Summer with New Vintage Clothing Collection Since its inception, Retro Stage has focused on exploring the beauty of historical styles. The brand aims to combine timeless vintage motifs and designs with modern elements to create a unique blend of classic and contemporary that appeals to all 20th-century fashion enthusiasts. This latest series focuses on incorporating seasonal elements so customers can feel the sunshine and get into the summer spirit to start their vacation off right. "We're all very excited to share our hot new summer collection with our customers," said the Retro Stage team. "Our goal is to provide vintage fashion lovers with a wide variety of trendy clothing. The smiling faces of our customers are what keep us going, so we hope to keep bringing that joy to our customers for years to come." When conceptualizing the new summer series, Retro Stage designers took into account the sense of vitality and passion that the season represents for many people. With this in mind, the team endeavored to put a feeling of freedom into every stitch, taking classic vintage patterns in summery color palettes and assembling an incredible collection of swimsuits, dresses, and more. Overall, the 2024 summer series brings the soul of the season to the forefront and presents it through a gorgeous vintage lens that retro fashion lovers will love. One important element of summer wardrobe is swimsuits. The Pink 1940s Halter Polka Dots Bow One-Piece Swimsuit takes inspiration from old maillot-style bathing suits with its built-in ruffled skirt and modest design. Its adorable pink fabric with black polka dots is accented at the chest with a black bow, and the halter design tastefully showcases the shoulders and upper back. The 1950s Halter Contrast Polka Dots Swimsuit features a similar black-and-white polka dot fabric but differs in its daring two-piece structure, consisting of a dotted top and solid black bottoms with a polka dot sash tied in a bow. Other swimsuits from this collection have a similar youthful air and explore the interplay of patterns and solids. One example is the Red 1940s Halter Patchwork One-Piece Swimsuit, a bright red suit trimmed with polka-dotted fabric at the waist, neckline, and hem, and another is the Green 1940s Striped Halter Swimsuit Set, which is made up of a white halter top with green pinstripes as well as dark green bottoms with floral button accents. Both of these pieces would be gorgeous additions to any pool party! Summertime isn't just about swimming and suntanning, but it's still important to stay cool when the sun is beating down. The Red 1950s Cherry V-Neck Halter Lace-Up Romper is a great choice for hot days with its short hemline and lively cherry pattern. Its halter neckline also ties in a bow at the back of the neck for some additional feminine flair. The 1950s Floral Halter Lace-Up Vintage Romper is equally as vibrant thanks to its soft white daisy print bodice, which contrasts beautifully with the rich green that makes up the shorts. Both of these rompers have two sets of three white buttons which emphasize the curve of the waist and add that little something extra that Retro Stage strives for. For those who prefer skirts to pants, there's no shortage of options at Retro Stage. The Light Blue 1940s Floral Shirt Neck Belt Dress is a stunning garment that has its place in any vintage fashion lover's collection, featuring a vivid garden scene on the skirt that trails upward to a crisp button-down bodice adorned with butterflies of all colors. The finishing touch? A ribbon belt tied into a bow at the front that seems to melt into the sea of florals below. At the other end of the spectrum, the Beige 1960s Polka Dot Square Neck Puff Dress embodies classic vintage elegance, made of an understated cream-colored fabric with deep black polka dots. This piece's short puff sleeves, lightly tailored bust, and surprise skirt ruffles all come together to embody mature, sophisticated womanhood at its absolute finest. All those interested in getting their hands on the latest and greatest vintage fashions are invited to browse the Retro Stage website for their favorite summer pieces. The Retro Stage team would like to wish each and every one of their customers a happy summer and hopes that their newest designs will help fashionistas look and feel their best heading into the season. About Retro StageRetro Stage is a popular vintage fashion brand featuring classic clothing and accessories inspired by 20th-century aesthetics. As a vintage style pioneer, Retro Stage is more than a brand; it's a way of life, helping every customer explore the history of fashion through chic and glamorous retro style. "Beauty never fades," said the Retro Stage team. "All we want to do is encourage women to build a better life for themselves and confidently embrace their natural allure."

Let's Get Charmed and Fancy–Founders Kendra Scott & Rebecca Hessel Cohen Celebrate the Launch of the Six-Piece Capsule Collection Announcing the launch of the exclusive Kendra Scott x LoveShackFancy collection. Concepted by the lauded female-founders Kendra Scott, founder of the namesake brand, and Rebecca Hessel Cohen of LoveShackFancy, the limited-edition six-piece capsule collection shares a love of romantic styling and is designed to add a pop of everyday joy to jewelry boxes everywhere. Kendra Scott x LoveShackFancy The collection features Kendra Scott's iconic Elisa and Ari styles, adorned with feminine flourishes and innovative hand illustrated floral motifs, alongside signature LoveShackFancy bows crafted in 14k gold over brass. The assortment includes three necklaces, two pairs of earrings, and a bracelet; the collection also includes a pair of earrings exclusive to LoveShackFancy. Remarking on the collection, Founder Kendra Scott stated, "I am thrilled to be able to announce our Kendra Scott x LoveShackFancy collection. It embodies romance and femininity in every piece, and collaborating with Rebecca to bring our respective styles together was an absolute dream. This collection radiates joy and love in its own special way, and I'm beyond excited to see it come to life and share it with all of you." "My daughters and I are huge fans of Kendra Scott I've loved watching all the OOTD Tik Toks with LoveShackFancy and Kendra Scott over the last few years," said Rebecca Hessel Cohen. "When deciding the best fit for a jewelry collab, Kendra Scott made so much sense given the crossover in our audiences. Plus, partnering with Kendra, such an iconic mission-driven female entrepreneur, was truly an honor. Bringing together our shared love of optimism and romance, we put our one-of-a-kind hand-painted prints on their cult-status necklaces and designed a few new styles based on vintage pieces. I can't wait to share it with you all!" The trend-forward collection consists of the Kendra Scott x LoveShackFancy Elisa Gold Pendant Necklace, a reversible style featuring hand-illustrated florals on the iconic Elisa pendant shape and a signature LoveShackFancy bow; the Kendra Scott x LoveShackFancy Gold Stud Earrings, which embody the fun, feminine aesthetic celebrated by both brands with a petite bow and dainty white crystals; and the Kendra Scott x LoveShackFancy Gold Charm Bracelet which features locket, bow, heart, and teacup charms on a gorgeous gold chain. The limited-edition Kendra Scott x LoveShackFancy collection is available in-store and at kendrascott.com/loveshackfancy-x-kendra-scott. Prices range from $65-$150.