THE CHICAGO SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA’S POPULAR ONCE UPON A SYMPHONY® PROGRAM RETURNS TO THE MAC WITH “GOLDILOCKS AND THE THREE BEARS The Chicago Symphony Orchestra’s (CSO) Once Upon a Symphony® program, perfect for ages three and up returns to Glen Ellyn’s McAninch Arts Center (MAC), located at 425 Fawell Blvd., with “Goldilocks and the Three Bears,” Sunday, May 22 at 1:30 p.m. and 3:15 p.m. Preconcert activities begin 45 minutes before the performance in the lobby. “Due to the incredible success of Once Upon a Symphony’s ‘Little Red Hen’ MAC engagement last year, we are especially happy to offer ‘Goldilocks and the Three Bears’ this May,” MAC Director Diana Martinez said. “The best way to cultivate the classical music artists and audiences of tomorrow is to give them the opportunity to experience a performance in their early years. So who knows…seeing this show may inspire the Yo-Yo Ma or Andrew Bird of tomorrow.” Once Upon a Symphony’s “Goldilocks and the Three Bears” takes the classic children’s story of the young and curious Goldilocks stumbling into a quaint and unlocked cottage of three bears and brings it to life with live music, vivid storytelling, sets, costumes and images for a unique and magical live music experience. The story also offers children the opportunity to experience the wonderful world of the forest through Goldilocks’ eyes and understand the responsibilities that come with growing older. The ensemble for Once Upon a Symphony’s “Goldilocks and the Three Bears” will feature CSO’s Lora Schaefer (oboe), Catherine Brubaker (viola) and Jennifer Gunn (flute), plus guest musician Jonathan Cegys (bass). Megan Wells will serve as the storyteller. “We are delighted to return to the MAC for another Once Upon a Symphony® program,” said Jon Weber, Director of Learning Programs for the Negaunee Music Institute at the CSO. “With their playful combination of music and storytelling, Once Upon a Symphony programs offer young children, their parents and grandparents a unique introduction to the magic of classical music and the amazing musicians of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. The MAC is a great destination for cultural and family programming and we are happy to partner with them in presenting this program for audiences in Glen Ellyn and the surrounding communities.” Once Upon a Symphony® is a program of the Negaunee Music Institute at the CSO and is traditionally presented in collaboration with Chicago Children’s Theatre in Buntrock Hall at Symphony Center in Chicago. The productions, created specifically for the CSO’s youngest audience members, blend together vibrant music performed by CSO musicians, engaging storytelling and delightful sets and costumes created by Chicago Children’s Theatre for a playful, accessible concert experience. More information about the Negaunee Music Institute at the CSO is available at cso.org/institute. In collaboration with the best conductors and guest artists on the international music scene, the CSO performs more than 100 concerts each year at its downtown home, Symphony Center and at the Ravinia Festival on Chicago’s North Shore. Music lovers outside Chicago enjoy the sounds of the Chicago Symphony Orchestra through best-selling recordings and frequent sold-out tour performances in the United States and around the globe. For more information visit cso.org. The May 22 performance of the CSO’s Once Upon a Symphony® program is presented in partnership with the McAninch Arts Center at College of DuPage. “Goldilocks and the Three Bears,” a CSO Once Upon a Symphony® program, comes to Glen Ellyn’s McAninch Arts Center, 425 Fawell Blvd., Sunday, May 22 at 1:30 p.m. and 3:15 p.m. Preconcert activities begin 45 minutes before the performance. Tickets for the performance are $16 adult /$14 youth. For tickets visit AtTheMAC.org or call 630.942.4000. This performance is supported in part by the JCS Fund of the DuPage Foundation. ABOUT THE MAC McAninch Arts Center (MAC) at College of DuPage is located 25 miles west of Chicago near I-88 and I-355, and houses three performance spaces (the 780-seat proscenium Belushi Performance Hall; the 236-seat soft-thrust Playhouse Theatre; and the versatile black box Studio Theatre), plus the Cleve Carney Art Gallery, classrooms for the college’s academic programming and the Lakeside Pavilion. The MAC has presented theater, music, dance and visual art to more than 1.5 million people since its opening in 1986 and typically welcomes more than 75,000 patrons from the greater Chicago area to more than 230 performances each season. #GlancerWeekly #ArtsEntertainment

HONEST PORTRAYAL OF TEEN EMOTIONS WITH A SPECIAL NEEDS SIBLING Holly Robinson Peete, best known for her television roles on “Hanging with Mr. Cooper”, “21 Jump Street,” and now, OWN network’s “For Peete’s Sake”, visited Anderson’s Bookshop in Naperville to share her powerful new book, Same But Different ; a personal story, written along with her teenage twins, Ryan and Rodney (RJ). As it is, being a teen is challenging in itself especially when you're up against dating, parties, sports, body changes, and school. Each chapter is each child’s viewpoint of how they are feeling about many real life situations while throwing Autism into the mix. Holly decided to co-author the book about teen life with autism because “there was no such book that existed”. The book is candid, powerful, and shares some very deep genuine and authentic emotions, that will pull on your heart strings whether you have a teenager in the house with special needs or not. “The only way we could write this book efficiently is through a lens of complete transparency and authenticity,” Holly shares. “The audience it's geared towards either knows this journey or is just learning about it; either way it is important to be true to the experience. Keep it really really real.” And real it was as her typical teen daughter, Ryan, shares her honest feelings on how her brother, RJ, seems to get it all, and the world completely revolves around him from food selections in the house that need to be gluten free, to vacations that must be choreographed to ensure RJ does not have a meltdown, to students in school who pretend to be her brother’s friend only to take advantage of him; and of course, the complete embarrassment she often feels about his habitual behaviors, such as putting his hands in his pants. Although the book is based on just 50% of their real life, using semi-fictional characters, the stories are a compilation of real life happenings. The chapters portraying RJ’s viewpoint were “harvested thoughts through interviews, through recordings of his feelings, through presenting him with scenarios and asking him how he was feeling about certain situations and also by reminding him of specific experiences while getting him to reflect on them again,” Holly says. “It was not easy to get him to express himself in this book but it was mandatory that we hear his voice. We are always hearing about children with autism and rarely from them.” Holly has come to the realization that parenting is hard in general, special needs or not, and writing these books and sharing their personal journey is an effort to advocate for all kids. Photo by Lynn Logan To view all photos from this event, click here. FULL Q & A INTERVIEW: The Book: Same But Different By Holly Robinson Peete, Ryan Elizabeth Peete, RJ Peete About This Book (Scholastic.com) Being a teen is hard enough. But when you have autism — or when your brother or sister is struggling with the condition — life can be challenging. It's one thing when you're a kid in grade school, and a play date goes south due to autism in a family. Or when you're a little kid, and a vacation or holiday turns less-than-happy because of an autistic family member. But being a teen with autism can get pretty hairy — especially when you're up against dating, parties, sports, body changes, school, and other kids who just don't "get" you. In this powerful book, teenagers Ryan Elizabeth Peete and her twin brother, Rodney, who has autism, share their experiences of what it means to be a teen living with autism. Same But Different explores the funny, painful, and unexpected aspects of teen autism, while daring to address issues nobody talks about. Same But Different underscores tolerance, love, and the understanding that everybody's unique drumbeat is worth dancing to. Ryan’s voice is portrayed by a character named Callie RJ’s voice is portrayed by a character named Charlie 1. Whose idea was it to write the book? Yours, Ryan, RJ’s? It was my idea to write a book about teen life with autism because there was no such book that existed. 2. How much of the book is based on your own personal family's life? 25%, 60%, 90%? 50% 3. I have 2 teenage daughters.....Ryan's (Callie’s) candid spirit as presented in the book is spot on for any stereotypical teenager. #TheTeenYears #TerribleTeens #WhatAboutMe #MeMeMe #SMCIA. Many of my own friends with special needs children and typical kids say their typical teen is more difficult from 12-17 than their child with special needs. Does it help knowing Ryan’s (Callie’s) feelings are probably just a normal phase of life? It doesn't really help to know that she is experiencing this normalcy because the autism doesn't go away from her life. Often times with teenagers they grow out of these feelings but as you become an adult if you have a sibling with autism you always have a sibling with autism. 4. “The Hey,You, Why Me?” Chapter ....oh my heart strings....so vulnerable....so honest and authentic - so relatable and helpful to other teens with special needs siblings. How did you/Ryan (Callie) get to a place to feel comfortable sharing her genuine feelings in the book? The only way we could write this book efficiently is through a lens of complete transparency and authenticity. The audience it's geared towards either knows this journey or is just learning about it. Either way it is important to be true to the experience. Keep it really really real. 5. From Ryan (Callie): "My brother with Autism has it all?" But I would never want "that" From RJ (Charlie): "Noooo, I have Autism. I never get what I want. The A word does have me" To Holly: What's your perspective on these comments? Autism is something that person has. It is not who the person is. There are very many families that are OK with describing their child or loved one as "autistic". I believe in child-first language and I rarely ever use that word. No offense to anyone who does but my child is so much more than this disorder. 6. RJ’s (Charlie’s) feelings were also shared very candidly in the book. The book shares that he is verbal, but hardly ever talks about his true feelings because he often doesn't have the right words to describe them. How did RJ (Charlie) express his raw emotions to share in the book? RJ does not really enjoy writing like his twin sister does. We harvested his thoughts through interviews, through recordings of his feelings, through presenting him with scenarios and asking him how he was feeling about certain situations and also by reminding him of specific experiences and getting him to reflect on them again. It was not easy to get him to express himself in this book but it was mandatory that we hear his voice. We are always hearing about children with autism and rarely from them. 7. “The Charlie Show” chapter....why can kids be so cruel? I personally wanted to punch Steve & Justin. How do you (Ryan/Callie) contain that raw emotion and remain composed (mature) when such things happen? It's really hard to respond to people with grace and dignity and when their spewing such ignorance and disregard but we found over the years that the more compassionate you are with someone's ignorance the more they take away from the situation. It's the old honey and vinegar analogy. 8. Ryan (Callie) talks a lot about being 'exhausted' from having to think about how to avoid the next crisis of "The Charlie Show".... I'm sure you too have felt plenty of exhaustion over the years. How does it make you feel when you hear moms with typical kids complain about how tired they are? At first it made me nauseous to hear parents of typical children complaining about things that I wished my son could do. Over the years I've become more compassionate and tolerant of what all moms and dads go through. Parenting is hard. Special needs kid or not. But for sure in the beginning it was almost torturous to hear the things that my friends complained about when all I wanted to do was get my son to say I love you to me. 9. It's shared in the book that your husband and RJ’s (Charlie’s) connection is shared through football stats since RJ is not a fan of actually playing football. What is your personal one-on-one connection with RJ? I am connected to RJ on every single level. Music sports travel you name it. 10. The honest reflection in the book begs the question....did RJ read the book and how does he feel about Ryan's chapters filled with raw emotions? Of course he read the book! He likes it because he understands that the characters are semi-fictional. His sister has a tremendous amount of compassion for him and rarely complained about him her whole life. He understands how blessed he is to have a sister who advocates fiercely for him and is so selfless. She's about to go off to college now and it's her time to spread her wings and focus on her and not be worried about what happens to him. It's difficult for her to let go but it's her time to shine. RJ always understands that writing these books and sharing our journey is an effort to advocate for other kids and he appreciates that. #GlancerWeekly #SoCelebrity #ArtsEntertainment

AWARD-WINNING HOME DESIGN SHOWROOM HOSTS UNVEILING EVENT Guests enjoyed networking and more as Glen Ellyn's award-winning Drury Design unveiled their latest studio kitchen design. Together, Drury Design and its supporters raiseed a glass to their new partnership with Rutt HandCrafted Cabinetry. The exciting new addition to the Drury showroom features the Rutt Ruskin line, which offers a unique perspective on traditional style, giving it the ability to fit within a variety of aesthetics. In addition to exploring the new kitchen, party goers enjoyed flavors by Chef Craig of Sub-Zero and Wolf and met tastemaker and Ruskin designer Scott Stultz. Visit the showroom today to see this display and more. Drury Design, 512 N. Main Street, Glen Ellyn, www.drurydesigns.com . To view our complete SCENE AROUND SUBURBIA photo gallery of this event, click here . Photo by Mike Catuara for Glancer Magazine Copyright 2016 Glancer Magazine #GlancerWeekly #HomeGarden #Business

DUNHAM COUNSELING TO HOST PROGRAM FOR TWEEN PARENTS May 17, 7-830pm Krista Sherinian, LCSW of Dunham Counseling in Naperville has first-hand knowledge of parenting Tweens, pre-teens typically in the Junior High or Middle School years. As the foster Mom of two Tweens herself, Sherinian has been researching the latest approaches for helping these young people navigate the often challenging tween years. “I’ve learned a lot of new methods and techniques, particularly for kids going through changes,” she says. “And kids at this age go through a lot of change, whether it’s a change of schools, activities, friends, or an adoption, re-marriage, divorce, or relocation. All the while, they themselves are changing a lot, both physically and emotionally through this period.” Sherinian and her Dunham colleague Madiha Haroon, LMFT, CACD, will present a program on Parenting Tweens on Tuesday, May 17th from 7:00- 8:30 pm at Dunham Counseling, 1516 Legacy Circle Suite 108, on Naperville’s north side. The presentation will focus on the blending of nurturing and structure which can result in positive discipline that fosters greater connectedness in the family as opposed to animosity and distance. “This approach is based on love and logic,” says Sherinian, who cites The Connected Child, a book by Karyn B. Purvis and David R. Cross, as the inspiration for the program. The counselors plan to present specific scenarios and techniques for dealing with situations parents may encounter including lying, chronic lateness, too much screen time, failure to complete homework or chores and more. “We plan to offer some fresh ideas to be more positive in discipline, making everyone in the family feel more connected. We tend to approach discipline as punitive, but this is a way to view discipline in a more loving and hopefully, more productive way.” Krista Sherinian is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with over 15 years of experience. Krista works with children and teens, she personalizes treatment with her training in play, art, written and visual journaling as well as talk therapy. She often works collaboratively in cases of divorce and with stepfamilies. She has been a speaker in District 203's Parent University, for Aurora Family Counseling Center on Ethics, Advances in Neuropsychiatry, and Evidence-Based Holistic Therapies. Madiha Haroon is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor and Certified Alcohol and Other Drug Counselor. Madiha focuses her practice on counseling individuals, couples, families and adolescents. Madiha is also clinical member of the American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy with over 12 years of clinical experience. Madiha has a broad background that includes working with parents and adolescents and experience treating alcohol and drug issues. She is understanding of cross-cultural issues in life transitions and is bilingual in Urdu/Hindi. As part of her practice offerings she provides counseling services specifically designed for the many aspects of the Muslim Religion community. Pre-registration for Parenting Tweens is requested and refreshments will be provided. Registration is $10 per person or $15 at the door. Couples are $15 in advance and $20 at the door. Space is limited. To register call Dunham Counseling at 630-799-0100 Option 1 Ext 3 and leave a message. Checks may be sent to Dunham Counseling at 12516 Legacy Circle Suite 108, Naperville, IL 60563. #GlancerWeekly #HealthWellness #FamilyTime

WINE FEST TO CELEBRATE THE 60th ANNIVERSARY OF LISLE The Lisle Wine Extravaganza is scheduled for Saturday, June 18, 2016 from 4:00 pm – 8:00 pm. (VIP starts at 3pm). The fest will take place at the Museums at Lisle Station Park next to Village Hall in Downtown Lisle. The festival will be celebrating the 60th anniversary of the incorporation of Lisle. The Lisle Wine Extravaganza will attract a large audience from the greater Lisle area, surrounding suburbs and Chicagoland. Wine aficionados will experience ten 1 ounce tastes of wine from a vast selection of over 100 different varieties of wine provided by Malloy’s Finest. The fest will also feature live music and food from some of Lisle’s favorite restaurants. www.lislechamber.com #GlancerWeekly #ArtsEntertainment #DiningCabaret

iMOM WELCOME TO MAY! This month we are celebrating modern moms. Though I would say I am more old fashioned than I am modern, I do enjoy the conveniences of today’s technology, especially when it comes to being a mom. Like many, I admit I’m addicted to my iPhone. So much that I once actually ran around the house looking for it in a complete panic when I thought it was lost only to realize that I was talking on it. #TrueStory From iPads and iPhones and all of the apps that come with them, I definitely have my iMom favorites. For my little ones (ages 2 & 5), I love the SesameGO  app by Sesame Street (now free) for all of its learning games and videos, and of course Netflix for providing me 24-7 access to Sofia the First which comes in handy– especially during inevitable toddler melt down moments while standing in a long line at the grocery store. (Yes, I’m THAT mom!)  For my 12 year old who loves fashion, dance and all things girlie-girl, I love Pinterest . She has had so much fun browsing & creating boards– from the latest styles to fun recipes, it’s opened up a whole new world for her! For her and her friends, their new fave is Musical.ly making it easy & fun to create lip syncing videos and share them in social media. They’re having a blast with it!  For me, my new favorite app is Rent the Runway. I tried it for the first time when I needed a formal gown for the Casa Kane County Gala in March. I logged in, browsed my preferred styles using the filters, saw what each dress looks like on typical women (thanks to the user photo gallery) and in 30 minutes time– from the comfort of my couch– I found the perfect dress to rent (and jewelry to match). It was on my porch 3 days later packed perfectly in a garment bag. Not only was the dress gorgeous, but the experience was so much fun. I LOVED EVERY MINUTE OF IT! The price was great and I will for sure be using this app again. So, no matter what type of mom you may be – modern, old fashioned, or a little bit of both – we all can agree that technology sure makes our life easier one way or another. We hope you enjoy this issue and Happy Mother’s Day! Thanks for reading. Lindy Kleivo Publisher/Editor #FamilyTime

iMOMS: TOTALLY TECH-READY These west suburban area iMoms are smart, sophisticated, and as tech-savvy as can be. Each has her own secret to staying on target when it comes to being up to date with the latest technology, social media, must-have apps and more. Whether they’re focusing on staying fit, organizing the kids’ schedules or building an e-business– whatever their goals may be, these iMoms are as efficient as ever and totally tech ready. Jenn Schumaker Kill Sugar Grove, Online Resale iMom Jenn Schumaker Kill of Sugar Grove is an iMom that relies on different technologies to run her own business. Just under 2 years ago, she started up an online Facebook resale business titled, Sugar Grove Illinois Sweet Deals to sell nice name brand clothing and items for busy moms and families. “The transactions are transparent to both parties,” explains Jenn. “However, I stamp my name on the quality of the items I sell, and the trust placed in me is ultimately what has fueled Sweet Deals to become such a unique concept in this crowded Facebook space.” Jenn lives with her husband, Paul, and her two busy children, Jack (10) and Madelyn (6). As she runs to basketball, soccer, drama and mom errands, she relies on her smartphone to work from anywhere. This connection allows her to reach her clients and customers in a timely manner. On their off-time, you will find the Kill Family having fun with their technology, like playing games and watching funny YouTube videos. They also enjoy using Facebook and Instagram to stay connected to their family and friends near and far. However, family time is still important to them. “On a Sunday night, after family dinner, you will often find us snuggled on the couch for movie night with popcorn and treats!” –Mindy Kyle Linda Przybylski, Elmhurst iMom GoFundMe She’s a tech savvy grandma that has learned how to navigate websites through her place of work; but, has become the queen of social media out of the pure desire to help her granddaughter. “I started my GoFundMe page July 2015 after Audrey's genetic test results detected a mutation in the MT-ND6 gene and a diagnosis of Leigh's disease a mitochondrial disorder,” Linda shares. “The GofundMe account was the best way to reach out to friends, family and neighbors who expressed interest in supporting her by allowing online donations.” Linda, a 29 year resident of Elmhurst, didn't have a Facebook account prior to GoFundMe; but it was a requirement to establish the page, along with a minimum of 10 friends for the account to be publicly displayed. “I soon found out it wasn't hard to collect friends on Facebook, and in no time we were public,” she says. “I quickly learned to use their online support team whenever I had questions.” $8565 has been raised to date covering medicines, equipment, and travel that is not approved by insurance. Linda is also involved with fundraising for the United Mitochondrial Disease Foundation and is team captain for Audrey's Crusaders in the Chicago Walkathon held last summer in Hinsdale. -Kristen Kucharski Meg Stromberg, Aurora iMom International Although she has lived the Naperville area for the past 18 years, Meg is an iMom International as she took her passion for travel and culture to create an International Exchange program for French and Spanish students. Share America allows students to experience the American way of life by living with an American family in the west suburbs for as short as three weeks or as long as several months, through 12 different programs. Thankful for modern day technology, Meg uses the Share-America.org website to educate families, complete applications, and post photos; as well as sites like www.terralingua.com/sejours_2016/a to communicate easily with coordinators overseas. Apps like WhatsApp and Viper help students communicate with each other without using cell phone data plans. “When I first began coordinating, I didn’t own a computer,” Meg says. “I sent things through the U.S. Mail and made many phone calls that can now so easily be accomplished via emails and attachments.” Technology like Facetime also allows Meg to connect with her sons and former students. “Talking on the phone is one thing; but, to see a face, an expression, a smile, or to blow a kiss is priceless.” -Kristen Kucharski Donna Román, Chicago/Geneva iMom Teacher Prior to moving to Chicago 1 ½ years ago to work within the Chicago Public School system, Donna and her husband raised their two children in Geneva for the past 20 years. While teaching 5th grade at Mill Creek School in Geneva, Donna discovered her passion for technology integration in the classroom. Now working in a technology leadership position, Donna is making decisions regarding technology not only within Chicago Public Schools, but also has a voice on a national level. “My favorite online tool for the classroom is Kidblog for classroom writing. Students can share their work within the same school or around the world,” Donna says. She also loves the free opportunities Google Apps for Education offers; but, it was her participation in an online global collaboration project called A Week in the Life, that changed the way she taught forever. “It was a pilot project with schools in India, China, the Czech Republic, New York, Dubai, and Mill Creek School in Geneva,” Donna says. “We worked collaboratively to compare our lives using online tools. “When you are in a classroom of students while they are working with kids around the world, they are just human beings working together, and are comfortable navigating culture, language and differences.” -Kristen Kucharski Michelle Crowe, Hinsdale Online Publishing iMom Michelle Crowe partly grew up in Hinsdale, so when she arrived back with her family in 2010 after moving to multiple cities across the country, it felt nice to be back home. A professional writer by trade, Michelle once wrote for the Chicago Tribune and the Houston Chronicle before moving to San Francisco to write editorial for Banana Republic. Currently, she has found her niche as a founding partner and style editor of the online publication, Classic Chicago Magazine. “It’s been really exciting to be a part of a start-up,” says Michelle. “I love writing in my own style again.” Classic Chicago is published digitally, and Michelle also runs their Facebook account, shares Twitter duties, and writes a blog, so for this iMom, current technology is vital for running her business. She finds it just as essential while running her family. Her son, Jeffrey (8) is involved in multiple sports while she juggles church, charity and PTO activities. She really depends on iCal to run her family calendar, keep track of games, meetings and other commitments. Michelle is also thrilled that fun technology like YouTube can help her share snippets of past favorite shows with her son. “We can look them up and laugh together,” she explains. “Jeffrey likes shooting videos now, and would love to have his own YouTube channel.” -Mindy Kyle Sue Becker, Downers Grove Organized iMom As a child, Sue loved cleaning the house and keeping her room neat. In high school and college, class notes were well-laid out and she used a calendar to plan assignments. As she moved to the corporate world and began working at a Fortune 500 company, the managers held a ‘Clean Off Your Desk Day’. “I was puzzled. I didn’t understand why this special day was necessary, since my desk was always clean,” Sue says. That day, she discovered her true passion and proceeded to open her own business Piles to Smiles in 2000. Although Sue has lived in Downers Grove for the past 28 years, she is able to help her clients anywhere in the world thanks to modern day technology. “I use Skype or GoToMeeting and have also taught classes via WebEx,” Sue says. She also loves sites like Evernote, Remember The Milk, and Trello to create and organize lists, notes, and reminders; as well as Outlook and Google calendar to access and share her calendar from anywhere. Other hot sites are SugarSync to back up files and photos and Genius Scanlets to snap a picture of a document and convert it to a PDF. Mother of two grown boys, this Organized iMom has it all together! -Kristen Kucharski Ally Pancottine Naperville Do-It-All iMom When Naperville resident Ally Pancottine was a child, she enjoyed taking things like clocks and radios apart and learning how they worked. Any time new technology would come out, she was always first to find out what it was and how it worked. Her love for technology has never wavered as she uses her iPhone to organize her life and activities for her two children, Angelina (16) and Ferris (9). She has used her intuitive sense of how technology can make a difference to assist many in the senior community. “I enjoy helping my senior friends with technology,” Ally says. “From understanding how it can help them, to setting up devices to be accessible and easier to use so they can manage their finances, play games, read, and most importantly, stay connected with family and friends.” Technology has also helped her manage her second home in northern Illinois with advances like Nest thermostats to control the heat and air via an app as well as ConnectSense outlets to control and monitor power usage. Ally’s favorite device is Ring, a doorbell which creates home security by allowing video communication with the person at the door via your iPhone. iProducts have helped this iMom stay connected here, there, and everywhere! -Kristen Kucharski #GlancerMagazine #LIfestyle #May2016 #KristenKucharski #MindyKyle #LocalWomen

THE DOUCET FAMILY, OSWEGO Tony and Michelle have lived in Oswego for the past 13 years with their teen twins, Abigail and Joshua (13). They love being a part of the growing community and enjoy strolling around downtown and going to places like the Village Grind, Go Dog Go, the Farmer’s Market, and the local dog park in nearby Montgomery. Although they love the outdoors and taking advantage of programs like OYTF football and cheerleading for their children, they also love the advances technology has made along the way to simplify their personal and work life. “We also run a dog sitting service that is managed through a site called Dogvacay.com,” Michelle says. “We love dogs and the website makes it super easy to manage the reservations, our calendar, and the money. The app also lets us take quick pics of dogs in our home in action that we can easily send to the client while they are away.” As a School Social Worker at Prairie Junior High in Alsip, Michelle also says she couldn't get her job done well without the use of technology, like Google Classroom and Skyward. “Much of my communication is through email and Google calendar helps me set up meetings as well and keeps me organized,” she says. “I also have an iPad with apps to help kids with social stories and can utilize Apple TV as well to show videos.” As a family, the Doucet’s pride themselves on encouraging a sense of community in their home. “We enjoy having conversations with our kids and their friends,” Michelle says. “We are proud of the fact that our kid's friends enjoy coming to our house because they know they will always feel welcomed by us.” -Kristen Kucharski, Photos by Mike Catuara #FamilyTime

BE THE BEST VERSION OF YOU! Highlighting how local area women can be the best version of themselves through everyday struggles that we face. EVERYDAY STRUGGLE: I recently lost 25 lbs and am so excited about it! The problem is that now I need a new spring & summer wardrobe. None of my favorite pieces fit anymore. Have any tips on keeping cute within a budget? - Carol L., Sugar Grove Buying new clothes is an important emotional milestone in the weight-loss process. It makes you feel good about yourself to wear something that fits you well. However, it doesn't have to be expensive, treat yourself to a nice fitting outfit because you are worth it and deserve it! Don’t be tempted to rush into a pricey department store. To save at name-brand stores, sign up for their e-mail blasts to get coupons and take advantage of seasonal sales. Alternatively, spend some time browsing the racks at discount chains to get more bang for your buck! If you love to hunt for a good deal, second-hand stores or thrift shops are another excellent option. Lastly, try asking your family and friends if they have any gently-worn items they’d like to donate to your new wardrobe! Another person’s trash is someone else’s treasure..... EVERYDAY STRUGGLE: I love my job so much! I've been here for 12 years and when I think of leaving I start to feel sick, literally. I have the BEST boss, the BEST co-workers and the BEST location, BUT I am making less than what the average Customer Service Rep makes and it is because I accepted such a low salary when I started not knowing any better since I did not do my research. Now that I know, I am not sure what to do. Asking for such a large raise would be unheard of, but according to the average salary for this role, I know in my heart I am worth way more. Help! -Bethany T., Lisle Take some time to determine “WHY” you want to make changes in your income. Does it make you feel successful? Does it get you a beach vacation, pay down debt, etc.? Write down your needs now and for the future. Then picture what your future looks like to YOU?! Then inform your employer that you have been reviewing your finances and personal goals and are ready to make some changes. Present them an opportunity to meet those needs financially in your current department. If they cannot, perhaps its time to explore other positions. Perhaps they have another position at the same company in a different department that might interest you, which might help you along in your decision. Rest assured...regardless of the outcome, I suspect the personal relationships you have will remain. And remember that your desire to increase your income is about YOU, not your employer. Nothing will change if you don’t try! ABOUT THE WRITER Joann Pierce is a wellness and fitness enthusiast who is living a lifestyle she never thought was possible. She’s been a stay-at-home Mom for 12 years and started in fitness years ago– from kickboxing to yoga. Continuing her journey in 2011, she completed her 200hr Yoga Certification at Prairie Yoga in Lisle. With over 1000 teaching hours, she completed her associate Life Coach Certification in 2013 and became a Beachbody Coach. Joann Pierce #phase40 Fitness, Empowering you is what we do. Beachbody Coach, Life Coach, RYT 200hr Yogi www.phase40fitness.com FB: Joann Pierce joannpierce@phase40fitness.com #HealthWellness

LOCAL 18 YEAR OLD SAVES A LIFE Eighteen-year old Lucas Bennett of North Aurora is credited with saving the life of a resident at GreenFields of Geneva earlier this year. The Waubonsie Community College student works as a dining room server for the senior living community. A resident in healthcare started choking on her food at dinner one evening, and the nursing assistant wasn’t able to dislodge it. “She started doing the Heimlich maneuver but her arms were too short to get a firm grip. She asked me to step in, and I did,” Lucas recalled. “I was shocked and scared. It was surreal. Afterwards, I went back into the kitchen and carried on with what I’d been doing.” 9-1-1 had been called, and when the Elburn Fire Department arrived on-site after Lucas had already helped the resident, one of the firemen came in and asked for his name. “He told me I’d saved the resident’s life, and I was in disbelief,” Lucas recalled. Lucas had learned the Heimlich maneuver in high school health class, and the steps came back to him. He said he told his parents and a couple of friends about what he’d done. “They’re really proud which was nice,” he said. Especially proud, is Lucas’s grandfather Bill Peterson who is a resident of GreenFields. “He’s been telling everyone. GreenFields had a meeting last week and honored me. My grandfather and the Fire Department were there,” Lucas said. He was also invited to the Elburn Fire Department’s banquet, at which he was recognized. “I received an award for exemplary action. They said they were blown away that a citizen did what I did before they arrived. They were grateful with the outcome,” said Lucas. -Photo & Story Submitted GreenFields is an exceptional LifeCare community offering an ideal location, a wonderful retirement lifestyle. GreenFields offers independent living, assisted living, memory support, rehabilitation and skilled nursing, with the most comprehensive plan available for long-term care if ever needed. For additional information, visit www.GreenFieldsOfGeneva.org. #SuburbanTriumph #HealthWellness #CaringSharing

DOOR COUNTY– A BEAUTIFUL PLACE Door County, Wisconsin is the perfect place to relax and refresh after a long winter, breathe in the spring air and enjoy spectacular sunsets along the peninsula’s western coast. “The Door” is open for your enjoyment, and there’s plenty to experience– from rich maritime history and wildflower hikes, to small town shopping and wine tours. Here are just a few of the many things to do that will leave mom clicking her heels after a weekend getaway to this Wisconsin gem: • Cherry blossom season, May 19-22 – Central to life in Door County since the late 1800s, sweet scents fill the more than 2,500 acres of cherry orchards where by mid-summer, delicate blossoms will grow into the Door County cherries that make the area famous. • Narrated scenic tour aboard the Door County Trolley – See breathtaking vistas from Peninsula State Park’s scenic bluffs overlooking the islands and learn local legend and lore along the way. • Sip your way through along the Door Peninsula – Sample locally made hard cider, wine and spirits with stops at Island Orchard Cider, Stones Throw Winery and Door County Distillery. • An authentic Door County Fish Boil – Freshly caught Lake Michigan whitefish is cooked outside over an open fire, just as it was 100 years ago by the Scandinavian settlers of the Peninsula. • Guided wildflower hike at Ridges Sanctuary – Native wildflowers abound along 5 miles of rustic trails and bridges at the Ridges Sanctuary. • Create your own art at Hands On Art Studio – This do-it-yourself Door County destination offers a freewheeling walk-in art experience designed for adults and children to create and play! Choose from projects ranging from fused glass and mosaics to jewelry design and welding. Just 4 hours from west suburban Chicago, it makes for the perfect weekend getaway. You and yours will love making memories with a trip to Door County. www.doorcounty.com #TrendyTraveler #ArtsEntertainment #GlancerMagazine #TravelLeisure #LindyKleivo #May2016

MUST-HAVE APPS FOR TODAY'S MODERN MOM Today’s ‘Modern Mom’ loves technology and the efficiencies it provides to her busy life when it comes to planning, shopping, organizing and more. Though you may hear what the hottest app craze is from your kids and teens, we invite you to focus on a few more that are especially for you. Here’s 7 we think you’ll love.... some were even created by local residents. How cool is that!? 1. Angel In My Phone • $.99 Need an angel in your life? How about an angel in your iPhone? Jeanne and David Buddingh of Naperville have developed an iPhone app, Angel In My Phone, that allows one to give a friend or relative a personal “angel” and a prayer. The is the Buddinghs’ first app through their company, Saints Be With Us. Scott Swoboda of Stratum Development Inc. in Wheaton helped them create the app, which they conceived of about two years ago. 2. RetailMeNot • FREE This award-winning app makes it easy to save with thousands of deals at your favorite stores and restaurants! Whether you're hungry for food deals or heading out to shop and want to save– be sure to check out this app before you spend. Today we found coupons for Target, Kohls, Hobby Lobby, Party City and more. Never pay full price again! 3. ReThink • FREE Naperville teen, Trisha Prabhu came up with an app called ReThink after losing a classmate to suicide due to cyberbullying. It's being called "an effective way to make teens re-think their actions on social media" and help combat cyber-bullying. The app promotes positive decison making skills for teens by alerting users to poor judgement in word slection, giving them a chance to “rethink” sending the text. 4. Allowance+ • FREE This app helps parents keep track of their children’s money and automates management of allowances. Help build kids’ financial literacy by tracking where their money goes. Brought to you by www.kinoot.com. 5. Brit + Co • FREE Discover thousands of innovative ideas and creative living in the digital age. From DIY projects and recipes to gadgets and must-have apps– explore new ideas in categories including DIY, Home, Tech, Food, Style and Holidays. Save ideas you love to your account or take a class in just about anything– from chalk painting to cake decorating. You’ll love this site. Trust us. 6. WotNow • FREE WotNow is a social local calendar app that helps manage life events better. This is the brainchild of Deepa Salem, Anand Sivaraman and Vidhya Iyer residents of Naperville. The app aims to to solve event related communication challenges for both parents and organizations. Information on various events one view of various calendars (phone, Google and Facebook) Sends a timely reminder of the event. 7. Grocery Exchange • FREE Stop overpaying for groceries. Know before you go. Save real money with this simple yet powerful grocery shopping list app. Grocery Exchange lets you compare grocery prices. It’s easy and fun and helps you save a ton of money on your grocery bill. Build your list, compare products, find the best store for your basket, capture prices and enjoy! WATCH FOR A NEW 7 SPECTACULAR LIST IN EVERY ISSUE OF GLANCER MAGAZINE – SUBSCRIBE TODAY! #7SpectacularList #ArtsEntertainment #FamilyTime