Chicago's west suburban communities have countless fabulous families, all making a difference in the world around them in their own unique way. Each month we feature a few of them. Here are this month's featured fabulous families. The Paulson Family KANELAND – Not only is she the executive director of the Kaneland Arts Initiative (KAI) and the auditorium manager for Kaneland High School, she’s also an educational writer for a music software company…and a wife and mother. Maria Dripps-Paulson is one busy lady! She and husband Tim, who is a project manager at Engineering Enterprises, Inc. (EEI), moved to Sugar Grove in 1999 because she was offered the job as band director at Kaneland and Tim started his career at EEI. “Because the district was so large, we wanted to live inside it, due to long band director hours,” says Maria. “We absolutely love our location!” Shortly after moving here, Maria and Tim decided to start a family and had Philip, who is now 12 years old and a 7th grader at Harter Middle School. Four years later, the Paulsons added to their family (in a big way!) and had triplets, Clara, Zoe and Naomi, who are 3rd graders at Blackberry Creek Elementary. In their bustling home, it’s not surprising Maria has a motto of “Practice how you perform” and “Everything you do must make it better.” And in true Paulson family style, Philip, Clara, Zoe and Naomi are active kids involved in everything from church choir to running. “The Fox Valley Children’s Marathon had each child run 1 mile at a time this summer until they reach 25 miles,” explains Maria. “The last 1.2 miles was a group run event in St. Charles on marathon day. As you can expect, Tim and I made great chauffeurs.” -Tiffany Schultz Fun Facts: Favorite Local Establishment: Alice’s in Elburn is a family favorite – the kids are attempting to work their way through all of their ice cream offerings. Best Family Vacation: Every summer we create a summer bucket list for our “stay-cation.” We include such fun things as: joining the Sugar Grove Library summer reading program, indulging in a Raging Waves day and last but not least, a pajamas day where we stay in our pj’s all day and just relax! On Sunday Night You’ll Find Us: At Village Bible Church in our AWANA club (for us girls) and youth group for Philip. Our Family is Very Passionate about: Our faith, the arts and learning! Our Favorite Thing About Our Neighborhood: Is that we never stop discovering great places to explore! We love to be out and about at our library, our church, or participating in community events. The Kaneland community is so unique in that regard – so many opportunities to be had. The McLachlan Family DOWNERS GROVE – Nine years ago, Colleen and Brian McLachlan left successful careers in L.A. to move to Chicago’s western suburbs to open Doggie Depot Daycare in Downers Grove. Their inspiration was their golden retriever Sadie whom they bought a week after their honeymoon. Brian explained they both worked long hours and had to take Sadie to daycare “because she was nuts. That’s what started us down this path.” Although they both had what they originally thought would be their “forever jobs,” Brian said, they soon realized that they weren’t doing what they would want to be doing for the next 30 years. “We decided to look into starting our own doggie day care,” Brian said. “It took us 2½ years to get up the courage to sell our house, quit our jobs and do it.” They have found themselves in the enviable position of being able to expand Doggie Depot twice. They’ve also expanded their family. They have two sons: Rory (1) and Parker (5). Furthermore, in addition to Sadie, they have Callie and Mack, who are also golden retrievers. With their popular business comes a certain degree of fame. Brian said that they are frequently recognized around town. “We live and work and play right here in town and see a lot of people. I love seeing people out and about. It’s the type of business we’re in. We’re not taking care of people’s dry cleaning. We’re taking care of a beloved family member.” -Wendy Foster Fun Facts: Favorite Local Restaurant:? Berto’s Deli and Pasta Shoppe. On a Sunday Night You’ll Find Us: Playing in our backyard. Best Family Vacation : It will be in 2016 when there will be 21 McLachlans renting a villa together in Costa Rica. The Hurd Family NAPERVILLE – Naperville has always been home to Janet Hurd – she grew up here, later moved to England, but came back to Naperville to be near family. She and her husband, Dave, have made Naperville their home for the past 17 years and are raising their three children, Vicki (15), Michael (13), and Zach (9) in their beautiful newly built home by McKeown Classic Homes, Inc. in the Green Acres subdivision. “We've been planning and building for 2 years, so we're very excited to be moving in now,” Janet shares. When the family is not busy volunteering at Naperville Central High School; or on the St. Thomas the Apostle care pantry and gardening committee; or with the All Saints Catholic Academy education committee; or in the school library; or coaching Naperville Park District soccer teams, they can be found sideline, cheering the kids as they play soccer for Galaxy soccer club and the park district. Back home, the Hurds are thoroughly enjoying the unique features of their new home, including the built-in aquarium and the large sliding service window and serving ledge which make entertaining in the rear covered veranda very convenient; plus the kids love showing off their smoothie bar! Janet worked closely with the design team at Liam Brex and may likely win Kitchen Gal of the Year with her own personal “mom cave,” perfectly situated behind a wood and wrought iron wine cellar door leading to the pantry, conveniently connected on the other side to her private space; thus, keeping her home organized and clutter free. Janet loves raising her family in the town she grew up in and plans on creating hometown traditions for years to come. –Kristen Kucharski Fun Facts: Our Family Motto Is: If a job is worth doing, it's worth doing right. A Famous Family We are Most Like: The Incredibles -Vicki can be Violet, Michael can be Dash and Zach can be JackJack. Most Memorable Family Vacation: We just took an RV trip this summer out west to the Rockies with some good friends from England. 9 people, 1 RV, definitely memorable! On a Sunday Night, You'll Find Us: Frantically finishing homework so we can watch a movie; Sunday night has always been movie night in our house. Do the Cubs or Sox Rule in Your House? Cubs 4, Sox 1 The Totsch Family OSWEGO – Married for 24 years, Jim and Bev Totsch, who in their first ten years together moved nine times, are used to being movers and shakers. So when asked why they settled on Oswego and have stayed for over 13 years, Bev cites soccer and friendliness of the community. “Jim was helping to run a Naperville-based club soccer program,” says Bev, “and in helping to plan a tournament, he got to know several really great people from the Oswego club. So when we decided to sell our house in Naperville, Oswego quickly jumped to the top of the list!” And after living in Oswego for a year, the Totsches continued to lay down roots by starting their own business, Tranquility Builders, a general contractor specializing in home improvement projects, with a focus on customer service and good business practices. Over the years, the Totsches have also maintained their commitment to community soccer clubs, and as a result two of their four children have chosen soccer-related professions. Elliot (who is the only Totsch child still at home) is the assistant varsity soccer coach for Oswego High School and son Sean, who currently lives in Rochester, NY, plays professional soccer for the Rochester Rhinos. They have another son, Ryan, who is a junior at Olivet Nazarene University as well as one daughter, Jen, who lives in Beecher with her husband, Zach. The biggest key to their success? Bev says they have always felt like a team because everyone has always had to pitch in and help around the house and with the business. “We are and always have been a very close family.” -Tiffany Schultz Fun Facts: Favorite Local Establishment: Benny’s for brunch! Most Memorable Family Vacation: My (Bev) family’s lake house on Lake Upsilon near the Canadian border outside of St. Johns, North Dakota - it’s hands down our favorite place to get away. On Sunday Night You’ll Find Us: Usually sitting at the table on our deck, getting prepared and organized for the week to come. A Famous Family We are Most Like: We are more like every other family, than any famous family. We are really involved with our kids and we love our business, our clients and our community. Why We Love Our Neighbors: Because we work such long hours and one or both of us are usually at some sort of soccer event, our neighbors have really looked out for us…and they are always asking about the kids. Great people, just like so many Oswego families we have the privilege of knowing. Do You Know a Fabulous West Suburban Family? If So, Introduce Us at editorial@glancermagazine.com

TARA ROZALOWSKY, NAPERVILLE National Psoriasis Foundation Naperville Walk Tara’s oldest child, Sidney, was born with severe plaque psoriasis, but it took over two years for her to be diagnosed properly. Sidney's skin is 20-30 percent covered in active lesions at any given time and she needs daily medication and modifications to keep the disease from advancing. “When you have psoriasis, your immune system has gone haywire; it tells your body to make skin cells at five times the normal rate,” Tara says. “These cells have nowhere to go, so they pile up on the surface of the skin in thick patches that crack and bleed.” Beyond the intense itching, the most difficult part can be the social element. “Though it’s an autoimmune disease and not contagious, people think that they’ll catch what you’ve got,” Tara adds. “They stare at you in public places, move away from you on the bus and ask you to leave public pools and hair salons.” Tara is on a mission to find a cure and is leading the first annual Naperville Walk for a Cure for Psoriatic Disease on November 1. Join the walk or support Sidney via www.npf.donordrive.com/team/sidney Know a West Suburban Hero Mom? Introduce Us at editorial@glancermagazine.com #HeroMomstoKnow

TRICK OR DRINK Here’s a little known tidbit for you…way back in the day (about 2,000 years ago) All Hallows’ Eve was celebrated by placing food and wine on the front porch to ward off evil spirits. It’s a shame that tradition stopped because I’d have a new favorite holiday –- drinking your wine verses eating those horrible candy corn pellets. So while important decisions have to be made like whether I dress up as Thor or Sharknado for Halloween I had an easy decision to open up a bottle of Jaffurs Syrah, 2009 from Santa Barbara County, California. This Syrah had aromas of big juicy blackberries, leather, olive, black pepper, finishing off with a little herb. With aromas that were layered as well as they were I was expecting some bold tannins but to my surprise, the wine’s flavors were rather soft with delicious black fruits and velvety tannins. Jaffurs added a little Petite Sirah in this vintage for structure and it showed. This bottle is a great fall wine!! It’s not only nice to add flavor to your chili but also delicious to drink alongside of it. So do yourself a favor and pick up this excellently valued wine for around $30. Just don’t leave it on the porch or I’ll be paying you a visit. Happy Hallow-Wine! Sláinte! ABOUT THE WRITER Eric McMillan, The Chicago Wino, is your source for lighthearted reviews of wine. thechicagowino.com also features links to fun tools like wine/food pairing, ideal serving temperatures, and "must try" bottles! Visit thechicagowino.com for a simple look at some complex flavors. "Like" Eric on Facebook–The Chicago Wino #GlancerMagazine #DiningCabaret #TheChicagoWino #EricMcMillan #FeaturedBlog #October2015

From contemporary to traditional while encompassing many unique design trends along the way, these west suburban homeowners love their recent kitchen redesigns. Exquisite and beautiful, yet practical and affordable. Pam Liesendahl BATAVIA – With her four children getting older and two of them in college, Pam wanted a space in her home where everyone could gather. So, when she and her husband decided it was time to give their older kitchen and “gathering space” a fresh look, they contacted Heritage Home Décor and Design out of Yorkville to help make their unique dream plans come true. Pam now feels like she has a space where the family enjoys coming together to dine and reconnect. 1. What feature of your new kitchen do you love the most? I was so excited when I found these old beams that were taken out of a 100-year-old barn. We had Heritage help make sure we got them up on our ceiling for a real original look. Then to top off our new kitchen, we ripped up the hardwood floors and replaced them with a heated French limestone. Now first thing in the morning, our family can have hot coffee and warm toes! 2. What is your favorite meal/dessert to prepare in your new kitchen? Meals that can be shared by all! I love to make homemade meatballs and chili in bulk so everyone can just dig in. I love to bake goodies as well; one of my kids’ favorites are my salted caramel cupcakes. 3. Where is your favorite place to shop in the Batavia area for those special ingredients for your favorite recipes? I like Trader Joe’s for their variety of healthy and organic foods and also Costco, because we like to entertain a lot, and we can always get great food for a lot of people there. -Wendy Kyle Tracy Kabeshita ST. CHARLES – When Tracy thinks of the phrase Gals in the Kitchen - “white or red” immediately comes to mind - and she’s serving it up in her new kitchen designed with the help of Vineyard Chic Kitchens in St. Charles. With a husband and two teenage girls, she enjoys coming into the kitchen first thing in the morning to make coffee and take personal time reading cooking/food magazines while listening to the noise of the news coming from the next room. 1. What feature of your new kitchen do you love the most? My kitchen was very dark and now it is bright - the contrast with dark accents is fresh and the decision to paint my island “espresso” with a glaze is beautiful, plus the kids can sit in the counter stools and I don’t have to worry about toe scuffs! 2. What is your favorite meal/dessert to prepare in your new kitchen? Themed dinners! Lena will ask me if we can make crepes (or some food item) and I’ll research traditional meals around her request. The end result (that night) was frisee salad with bacon lardons and a poached egg, buckwheat crepes with mushroom, guyere, chicken and herb filling, and for dessert: apple tarte tatin! 3. Where is your favorite place to shop in the Tri-Cities area for those special ingredients for your favorite recipes? I’m pretty loyal to Fresh Market. They have things like Palmetto cheese and Moravian cookies which remind me of my North Carolina hometown. -Kristen Kucharski Suzanne Costello NAPERVILLE – Her 1980’s home was in need of remodeling, and after completing her bathroom project with Q’s Cabinet Shoppe, Inc. in Naperville a few years ago; Suzanne knew exactly who to call for help for her kitchen transformation. Using the help of Penny Homscheid of Homscheid Interiors, plus inspiration from magazines, Suzanne is thrilled with her beautiful new build-out. She envisions creating family traditions for years to come with her husband and two children; from quiet mornings with her coffee before the rigors of the day, to all day events of making Christmas pierogis - laughter and memories are sure to follow. 1. What feature of your new kitchen do you love the most? The large island is a great place for people to gather before the meal and it offers plenty of room for serving. However, I do love my double ovens and warming drawer as well. They really make it easier to coordinate a meal, especially if you are cooking for a crowd. 2. What is your favorite meal/dessert to prepare in your new kitchen? I enjoy cooking meals that make my house feel warm and inviting, like roasted turkey, soups and spaghetti sauce. My husband and daughter enjoy the kitchen as much as I do. My husband makes a great beef bourguignon and my daughter loves to bake. 3. Where is your favorite place to shop in the Naperville area for those special ingredients for your favorite recipes? We shop at Costco, Casey's and Trader Joe's. Melissa Wheaton WHEATON – After raising her family and 41 years of marriage, this 30-year Wheaton resident was ready to give attention to her dark and tired kitchen. Melissa knew the timing was perfect when she saw her dream kitchen on Houzz.com and realized that it had been remodeled by The Kitchen Studio in Glen Ellyn. She loves that her new space is the perfect place for everyone to gather and enjoy each other's company; to sit and talk with a friend, or discuss the day’s events with family; all the while facilitating those experiences with good food from the kitchen of her dreams! 1. What feature of your new kitchen do you love the most? I love the white cabinets; they are clean and crisp. I guess my favorite feature is the drawers. They are so easy to access, organize and hold a lot of things. The warming drawer is a favorite for late dinners too! 2. What is your favorite meal/dessert to prepare in your new kitchen? My husband would say lasagna, as it is his favorite. Our new oven makes baking reliable again! I like making appetizers for company and having lots of prep room. I also bake gingerbread houses and cookies at Christmas and the counter space is great for lots of batches! 3. Where is your favorite place to shop in the Wheaton/Glen Ellyn area for those special ingredients for your favorite recipes? like the Wheaton French market, Mariano's, Wheaton Meat Market, Jewel. -Kristen Kucharski Rita Januszyk HINSDALE – All signs pointed to new appliances when Rita’s oven wall unit, cooktop and microwave all stopped working in the same week. She and her husband went out for the sole purpose of replacing their outdated appliances and came home from Normandy Design Build Remodeling out of Hinsdale with plans they loved for a whole new kitchen. With her love for entertaining, Rita finds joy in the new open space she has gained for cooking and serving buffet style for all her family and friends. 1. What feature of your new kitchen do you love the most? My old island had upper cabinets that we removed to open up the kitchen into the dining room. We hung some beautiful glass-blown pendant lights there instead, and it just feels like this grand space where people can gather. I also love the new grayish composite granite we found to match the redwood trim in our house. 2. What is your favorite meal/dessert to prepare in your new kitchen? I have two signature desserts I love to make – carrot cake and apple pie. I had 30 people over recently, and I made the carrot cake. It was a dream to bake it in my new oven as opposed to my old wall unit. My carrot cake came out so moist with a crust that was just perfect. It was fun having the space to stage all the food for everyone. 3. Where is your favorite place to shop in the Hinsdale area for those special ingredients for your favorite recipes? We are vegetarians, so I love going to the Hinsdale farmer’s market on Mondays to see what they have available. Otherwise, I love Kramer’s in town for their produce, which is always fresh, especially their tomatoes which are brought in local all year long. -Mindy Kyle

With each new season comes fun and fabulous parties– and this time of year offers the best of them. From Halloween and Thanksgiving to Christmas and New Years, we’ve set out to help you plan a kitchen party space that’s ideal for every occassion. With the help of HGTV.com and a few local design showrooms, here are 7 Spectacular Steps to a Party-Ready Kitchen: STEP #1 • THE U-SHAPED ISLAND Gone are the days of party hosts being separated from their guests. Modern-day hosts invite party goers to stay in the kitchen while they chop, pour and prepare for the occassion. The large U-shaped island can be approached — and used — from six sides. One side is for seating, while another acts as the bar, and the other four sides are for meal prep and serving. Visit Q’s Cabinet Shoppe for great kitchen island ideas. www.qsabinetshoppe.com STEP #2 • PLENTY OF COUNTER SPACE Today’s hosts have many different things going on and need room to move around the kitchen quickly during prep time. What better way to minimize spills than by having plenty of counter space? From a thin-shaped ledge to a long, narrow island, the more spots to set things, the better. Visit Drury Design’s showroom for great counter layout ideas. www.drurydesigns.com/portfolio STEP #3 • CABINETS GALORE Throwing a party means having lots of platters and tableware on hand. But where will you ever store them? Modern day kitchens display unique cabinet trends– from ceiling-height set-ups to corner shelving units–offering lots of storage for your entertaining essentials. Vineyard Chic Kitchens now also offers NEW cabinets in the trendiest of styles. www.vineyardchickitchens.com STEP #4 • PRACTICAL FLOORING Super soft harwood floors are pretty but are they practical? Do you really want to make your gal pals take off their shoes for fear of denting your hardwood floors? Probably not and this is why it is important to talk with a flooring specialist at Great Western Flooring before you make your final wood selection. Choose elegant, but durable. Not looking for new floors, but yours need work? Contact Buff & Coat Hardwood Floor Renewal to help make them come alive again. www.www.buffandcoatnow.com STEP #5 • A BEVERAGE STATION Wine chillers are ideal for wine drinkers. But what about the beer drinkers on your invite list? Enhanced beverage features include another sink that’s perfect depth for ice to chill your favorite beverages or two separate islands where guests can interact, which could also include both the wine chillers and a cooler for soft drinks. Visit Young’s Appliances in Glen Ellyn for the hottest trends at the best prices. www.youngsappliances.com STEP #6 • IDEAL LIGHTING There’s nothing worse than not being able to see your guests due to poor lighting as they tell you what’s new in their life, and it is equally as frustrating for them! Be sure to have ample lighting throughout your kitchen. Dimmers are ideal, as well as counter lighting and table lighting and be sure to set the lighting prior to guests arriving. A guest should never have to ask “is it ok if I turn a light on in here?” Visit Galleria Lighting for today’s lighting trends. www.galleria-lighting.com STEP #7 • A SIMPLIFIED SERVING AREA Be sure to set up a serving area that is simplified by having only the necessities on hand– silverware, napkins, dishes, etc. Designate a tray for condiments and other serving essentials such as toothpicks, etc. Guests like to have a specific area to return items to that they use while serving themselves so they don’t look like they are making a mess of your beautiful display. Watch For A Uniquely Themed “7 Spectacular” List In Every Monthly Issue. View Upcoming Issue Themes Online Under Editorial. Share this List On facebook & Twitter www.glancermagazine.com #7SpectacularList

YOUR KITCHEN IS YOUR HOME’S SIGNATURE “Our clients often expect us to start the design process by choosing colors or cabinetry,” says Gail Drury, who brings over 35 years of experience to Drury Design Kitchen & Bath Studio and holds the industry’s highest professional design certification - certified master kitchen and bath designer (CMKBD). “But we begin by gathering information – about their space, their family’s lifestyle and their cooking personality – only then do we detail it into concepts, allowing homeowners to select elements such as colors and materials. That way the final design reflects each homeowner’s distinct personality… as chefs, entertainers, parents or home managers.” And that is the brilliance that is Drury Design - their four-step methodology which is designed to cover the most ground and simultaneously make the clients’ experience as effortless as possible. “This particular family was looking for a very family-oriented space,” says Gail. “The husband was very involved because he does most of the cooking – everything was about accessibility and having the right accessories in the right places. But the space was also a designated social space. Anything from Boy Scout troop meetings to book club get-togethers to nightly homework sessions all had to be accommodated in the overall design.” And in keeping with Drury Designs' ever-present commitment to staying fresh and current, there are some new and exciting design trends that Drury is incorporating in their projects. “Simple and clean lines are still in and white is still the #1 cabinet color,” says Jim Drury, co-owner and studio manager. “But we’re seeing a lot of combining different materials, such as painted cabinets mixed with stained cabinets, and believe that this is a trend that is here to stay." Jim also notes that there is a renewed emphasis on lighting. “Lighting can make or break any design so we stay current and offer homeowners new concepts such as “invisible” canned lighting and low voltage LED lighting that can literally be placed anywhere.” The Drury Design website profiles a large portfolio of kitchen design projects, or homeowners can visit their 7,500-square-foot showroom to see some of their award-winning displays. Drury Design Kitchen & Bath Studio 512 N. Main St., Glen Ellyn (630) 469-4980, www.drurydesigns.com/portfolio #GlancerMagazine #CoverStory #October2015 #HomeGarden

CINDERELLA, CINDERELLA I have this nagging feeling I’m late for something. Oh wait…is it fall already? Like Cinderella losing her slipper on the steps of the ball, my chariot’s arrived in the form of a pumpkin and I’M. NOT. READY. While I do have a section of my still-very-messy basement that is devoted to my fall décor, it’s in that dark, sort of damp and well…spooky corner. Besides that, I can’t help but feel that the stuff I have brings new meaning to the phrase “OLD standby’s.” How is it that my neighbors’ yards already look creatively creepy with goblins, ghouls, and ghosts of all shapes and sizes? And that friends of mine fill cornucopias with candy corn and somehow they don’t look cheesy? How do I get spider webs that scream spooktacular, not “I’m Mrs. Havisham and haven’t dusted in 20 years”? So after I took a deep breath and realized that I do in fact have an “old friend” I can always count on in sticky situations like this, I decided to Keep Calm and Nona Jo’s On! It’s so nice to step inside your favorite boutique and feel like you’ve just walked into your best friend’s house; cozy and homey, yet fun and fabulous. And at Nona Jo’s, as far as the eye can see, every nook and cranny, every corner and every crevice, is decked out in curiosities, trinkets, mementos and more. Nona Jo’s has always been my go-to for gifts, jewelry…or even that must-have scarf to keep the autumn chill at bay, but this trip was all about fanciful fall frill! I simply love that there are little niches everywhere throughout the shop – to get ideas, garner inspiration or just sit a spell and delight in the design (it’s quite obvious they have more than a few talented designers on staff). Speaking of the staff…they are an uber-friendly and helpful bunch, who aren’t clingy (this is getting to be a theme – ahem hello… best friend material!). So after taking a couple laps around the shop in order to absorb it all, I decided on some darling décor that helped me create a spectacularly spooky “barscape” in my kitchen. I really love that no matter my mood, they have items that span the spectrum. So whether I’m feeling whimsical or classic, fun or fantastic, sparkly or spooky…Nona Jo’s has it! Witches and pumpkins and candy corn, oh my! The skulls and candles and ghosts caught my eye. The signs are hand painted and the fall florals made me elated….oh Nona Jo’s I can’t wait to come back and get Christmas décor acquainted! OVERVIEW Nona Jo’s is a family-run, fun-filled shop that offers exceptional service and an ever-changing mix of unique home accessories and fabulous gift-giving pieces. It was voted a 2015 Readers' Choice Excellence Award winner by Glancer readers and is located at 410 W. Fifth Ave., Naperville, www.nonajos.com, (630) 355-4488. #TalesFromtheHighWire

A Few Treats Around Downers Grove Ever wonder who painted the windows of local businesses downtown with Halloween themes? Our town does. On Saturday, October 24 swing on by 933A Curtiss Street from 9am to 12pm and pick up some paints from The Downtown Management Corporation and Rotary Club. Just bring a food donation for F.I.S.H. Pantry in exchange for paints. Remember to bring paint brushes, water, wipes (lots of them), and patience. First come first serve so if you are eyeing that corner spot get there early! Great things always seem to happen in twos downtown and Saturday, October 24 is no different. The Helping Girls Navigate Adolescence Pancake Breakfast will be held from 8am-11am at Ballydoyle Restaurant and Bar. The cost is $6 for adults, $3 for kids 12 and under, kids 2 and under eat free. Proceeds from this event will support HGNA’s many efforts throughout the year including its annual Chick Chat workshop that serves more than 300 local 4th through 6th grade students. Lincoln Center might be known to many as housing a preschool, basketball games and more, but come October it is transformed into The Lincoln Hotel. Take a self-guided tour of this historic haunt on October 23 and 24 from 7:30pm to 10:30pm. At only $8, what could go wrong? If looking for more scares, buy the “Fast Pass” through the park district and bypass long lines at two additional haunted houses: Westmont and Woodridge. If looking for a last minute pumpkins (like I always am), check out The Farm. Located at 34 East 63rd Street, it is technically part of Westmont, but is a great place to pick up pumpkins that are equally as fresh as the other produce they supply. Be sure to say “Hello” to Mr. Skeleton Bones from the Healy Family who typically is hanging out on the bench watching the action. Finally, don’t forget about the North vs. South football game at the home of the Downers Grove South Mustangs on Friday, October 9 at 7:30pm. Go Mustangs! Thanks for taking the time to read my take on the spooktacular happenings around town. Gift ideas galore for the holidays in the next issue! ABOUT THE WRITER Anne Healy has lived in Downers Grove for the last eight years with her husband Tom and three children. Beyond attempting to find the latest local fun spots for Glancer Magazine readers, you can find Anne coaching soccer, teaching Junior Achievement within District 58, or telling her three kids to “slow down”. Anne’s chosen charity to receive complimentary promotion as part of our Modern Housewives program is Hopes Front Door. The organization helps countless individuals and their families in Downers Grove and neighboring communities by providing emergency assistance to those in need. This summer, the organization sponsored a Backpack Drive for students in the area enabling hundreds of students to start this school year with supplies they need. To learn more visit www.hopesfrontdoor.com.

Fall Festivities In Wheaton & Glen Ellyn Fall is here and it is time to celebrate this Autumn season. I have several ideas for you. Let’s start at Cantigny Park. October 10 is their “Fall Festival” from 10am – 4pm. A $5.00 parking fee grants you in. Some events charge a nominal fee. Meander the aisles of homemade goods for purchase at the craft fair, hop on a hay ride ($1.00) and release your creativity at pumpkin decorating. Kids will enjoy jumping in the inflatables, exploring the petting zoo ($1.00 animal feed cup), seeing jugglers, stilt walking & more. Don’t forget their “Family Night Out” on October 16. Parking is only $2 per car and this free event runs from 5:30-7:30pm. Wear your costume on the 16th for trick-or-treating, pumpkin decorating and family friendly activities inside the Visitor Center. Now that you are feeling the change of seasons, call Leslie Gail for organizing and brightening up your living space. Leslie is a professional organizer that can ease your life transitions. Transcend your home into a peaceful retreat. Send her a note with what you have in mind & she’ll take it from there. leslie@declareorder.com or visit her website at www.declareorder.com Now that you are tucking into the ambiance of Fall, let’s explore your creative side at the Wheaton Public Library. Two events to ponder: the Writer’s Workshop on October 8th & November 12th from 7pm – 8:30 pm. Online signups via www.wheaton library.org/calendar. You can also call (630) 868-7520. During this creative hour, you are provided different writing prompts and you will have an opportunity to create and share your thoughts with the group. October 27th provides an additional writing activity. Use the information above to register your free spot where you will read and receive constructive peer feedback on your work of poetry, song, screenplay or project. Bring two hard copies to share & unleash your inner writer. The Fall weather has arrived and you are looking for an indoor activity. Bring your kids and check out Karate for Kids ATA Martial Arts Family Center at Danada Square East in Wheaton. Having commitment issues? Try 5 classes & a uniform for $20 -- no pressure. They have classes all week and Saturdays. Kids can begin as early as three years of age. My 9 year old son has been attending since May of this year and has become more assertive and physically fit. Call (630) 681-0060 for more information & receive a class schedule. ABOUT THE WRITER Kathy Ruggio lives in the Stonehedge neighborhood of Wheaton with husband Michael & 9 year old son Angelo. She seeks Vitamin D via daily sun exposure, rare finds at local stores, shopping for Christmas year round & making unique jewelry for friends using Scrabble pieces. Kathy’s chosen charity to receive complimentary promotion as part of our Modern Housewives program is Jolly Old Soles. “Phyllis Parise founded this organization. I see first-hand how she helps people locally and globally. No one should be without shoes. She sends them to the Philippines and right here to schools in Aurora. Learn more at www.jollyoldsoles.com

Cozy Living In Naperville Things taste better in small houses and it’s a good thibng because I have the smallest kitchen EVER. No Joke. It’s a galley kitchen in the starter house that has become, over the past 13 years, our probable forever home. The kitchen is roughly 9’ by 12’ and in it hangs a sign that reads “A messy kitchen is the sign of a happy life.” But whether we’re entertaining two or 15 people, whether it’s 70 degrees out, or a game is on the television, that kitchen is crammed with people. It’s completely cliché, but it’s the heart and soul of our house and it is my happy place. Stressed? Happy? Celebrating? Grieving? You’ll find me cooking or baking, for my people or whoever is in need of a little help or a celebratory baked ziti. I’m also constantly adding to my culinary collection, and for that I often head to Sur La Table in downtown Naperville. Ahhhh, like a kid in a candy store! Oh, the kitchen I’d have if the money coffers were bottomless. I’d wander from Sur La Table to Williams-Sonoma and peruse beautiful cheese plates, European coffee presses (a different one for everyday) and a gadget for anything I’d ever need to do. For those one-of-a-kind pieces that make you ooo and ahh I’d head to the hidden gem that is Nona Jo’s on Mill Street. I could take the entire shop home with me. Then, I would glide around my culinary space like the Food Network cameras are on and I’m ready for my close-up. But alas, the coffers are not bottomless. The starter house kitchen is now home to a family of five. And the tiny kitchen does not have room for gadgets and pretty dishes from around the world. It does have room for a half-dozen family and friends on any given occasion. It does have room to make meals to soothe, comfort or cheer. It has room for conversation and sharing, and laughter and love. I wouldn’t mind a few little upgrades, but my cozy kitchen does the job just fine. It may not be filled with all the latest and greatest, but it’s certainly full of the best of me. ABOUT THE WRITER Katie Manker of Naperville is a wife, small business owner, sister, daughter and friend, but first and foremost she’s Mom to her red-headed mafia. You’ll find her driving the activities bus by day, and laughing and enjoying her family and friends by night. Katie’s chosen charity to receive complimentary promotion as part of our Modern Housewives program is Sgt. Tommys Kids. Learn more at www.sgttommyskids.org

Q. Is there anything non-surgical I can do to correct the fine lines and sun damage on my face? Chemical peels are an effective way to restore wrinkled, blemished, unevenly pigmented, or sun-damaged facial skin. Peel programs use a chemical solution to improve and smooth the texture of the facial skin by removing its damaged outer layers. Glycolic, lactic, or fruit acids are the mildest of the peel formulas. These types of peels can provide smoother, brighter-looking skin for people who can’t spare downtime. Trichloroacetic acid can be used for medium-depth peeling. Fine surface wrinkles, superficial blemishes and pigment problems are commonly treated with TCA. Phenol is the strongest of the chemical solutions, and produces a deep peel. It is used mainly to treat patients with coarse facial wrinkles, areas of blotchy or damaged skin caused by sun exposure, or pre-cancerous growths. Some peel programs require skin preparation, so advance planning is important. Before making any decisions about a peel program, it is very important that you consult with a certified aesthetician who works under the supervision of a plastic surgeon. Be certain to discuss your expectations, get a detailed explanation of the procedure and recovery period. Your medical aesthetician will partner with you to develop the most appropriate treatment plan to meet your needs. THIS ARTICLE APPEARS IN THE MOST RECENT ISSUE OF GLANCER MAGAZINE ask an expert Dr. W. John Bull, Jr. is double board certified in both general surgery and plastic surgery, and is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Dr. Bull’s Naperville practice, DuPage Plastic Surgery, specializes in both non-surgical and surgical treatment of the face, breast and body. Call (630) 717-6000, or email us at contact@dupageplastics.com, dupageplastics.com.

Q. The holidays are around the corner and I still have clutter from spring cleaning. Help! How can I de-clutter before I break out the holiday decorations? I find myself in many homes across the western suburbs and “de-cluttering” comes up a lot! My number one rule is to take it a step at a time, so that you’re not overwhelmed. I also like to share a few tips that will help speed things up. Start with one room and pretend you’re about to list your home for sale. Leave the furniture, but clear everything else from the room. Then only add back items that are absolutely needed. Everything leftover should be sorted into “toss,” “donate” and “pack” piles. Toss and donate piles are self-explanatory, but “pack” is really the fun one. These are the items you really love, but you don’t want re-cluttering the room. Put some of these out as decorative objects, but keep the rest packed away. Every once in a while pull a few out to display. However, for every new object taken out, one gets packed away! You’ll love the breathing room on your tables and shelves, and will enjoy rotating the fun stuff. Work on it a bit each day, doing sections of larger rooms, one closet or a small bathroom, each day. If you have 30 minutes to quickly clean out a closet, consider that a victory. In no time you’ll have a house that is clutter-free and ready for holiday decorating! THIS ARTICLE APPEARED IN THE MOST RECENT ISSUE OF GLANCER MAGAZINE ask an expert Susan Fisher has been an interior designer for Roseland Draperies & Interiors for almost 30 years. She specializes in residential and commercial interior design, including window treatments, bedding, table linens and reupholstery. She welcomes your questions at 630-355-1565 or susan@roselanddraperies.com.