Cantigny Invites You Out for Feast of the Senses in Wheaton WHEATON–Are you ready for a summer like no other? Cantigny Wheaton is transforming this season with its all-new Feast of the Senses  event. This vibrant blend of art, music, and nature promises to immerse you in a multi-sensory adventure sure to captivate visitors of all ages. From musical swings to aromatic gardens, Feast of the Senses at Cantigny in Wheaton delivers an unforgettable experience that will delight your senses and ignite your summer spirit. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, this is one summer event you don’t want to miss. What Is the Feast of the Senses? The Feast of the Senses at Cantigny is more than just an event; it’s an interactive experience that brings art, music, and nature to life. Sprawled across the lush gardens of Cantigny Park, this immersive program is designed to engage all five senses with creative installations, live performances, and hands-on activities. Think of it as a sensory escape, where you can: Taste  unique flavors curated just for attendees. Hear  live music performances through the beautifully designed "Sounds of Summer" series. See  spectacular murals and optical pathways that transform Cantigny’s spaces into works of living art. Touch  plant displays that invite you to explore the textures of nature. Smell  fragrant herbs and blooms in the carefully curated gardens. Why Visit the Feast of the Senses at Cantigny in Wheaton? This is not your average summer day out. Whether you love interactive art, enjoy outdoor activities, or are simply curious about experiencing Cantigny in a whole new way, the Feast of the Senses offers something extraordinary. Here’s why it stands out: Interactive Fun for All Ages      What better way to spend quality time than with an event that offers something for everyone? Swing in harmony with friends on the musical swings or explore the optical pathways with your family. Unique Experiences You’ll Only Find at Cantigny      From tree swings among blooming gardens to touch tables full of fragrant herbs and succulents, these one-of-a-kind attractions are guaranteed to create lasting memories. A Reason to Celebrate Summer      With its stunning backdrop and engaging activities, Cantigny’s Feast of the Senses is the perfect way to soak up the sun and celebrate the season. What to Expect at Cantigny Feast of the Senses in Wheaton Dive into an array of attractions, specially curated to provide a full sensory experience. Musical Swings Get ready to swing to the rhythm of your summer! Presented by Daily Tous Les Jours, these swings are more than playground favorites. Each movement generates musical notes, turning a simple activity into a melody-making experience. Perfect for kids and adults alike, these swings will make you feel like part of a live performance. Optical Pathways Follow colorful custom murals that guide you through the gardens. These optical artworks invite you to dance, jump, and play as they lead you to each highlight of the event. It’s not just a visual treat; it’s a call to action to engage with your surroundings. Tree Swings Nestled in the shade of Cantigny’s beautiful trees, these swings offer a tranquil experience like no other. Relax and enjoy the whispers of summer breezes while taking in panoramic views of the gardens. Touch Tables Nature lovers will adore exploring the touch tables in the Green Garden. Filled with fragrant herbs, succulents, and textured plants, these tables provide an interactive way to connect with nature. Flavors and Aromas Savor the rich, intriguing flavors and smells at designated tasting areas. From seasonal offerings to specialty-crafted bites, your taste buds are in for a treat. Sounds of Summer Bask in the melodies of live performances from seasoned musicians. Set against the lush greenery of Cantigny Wheaton, these concerts are guaranteed to make your summer evenings magical. Plan Your Visit to Cantigny in Wheaton Don’t wait too long to plan your trip. The Feast of the Senses is the highlight of Cantigny’s summer events, and it’s only here for a limited time. Here’s what you need to know: Location:  Cantigny Park, Wheaton, IL Date:  Summer 2025   Specific dates and times vary, so check Cantigny’s website ( Feast of the Senses ) for the latest updates. Tickets:  Entry to Cantigny Park includes access to the installations. Additional tickets may be required for select activities or tastings. Parking:  On-site parking is available for your convenience. Whether it’s a romantic day out, a fun-filled family trip, or an inspirational solo adventure, Cantigny’s Feast of the Senses is an ideal summer destination. Make sure to bring your camera, as you’ll want to capture every magical moment. Experience the Magic of Cantigny This Summer with Feast of the Senses and So Much More The Feast of the Senses is more than just an event; it’s an invitation to reimagine what summer can feel like. Set against the stunning backdrop of Cantigny Wheaton, it’s the ultimate destination for those looking to spark their creativity, reconnect with nature, and enjoy quality time with loved ones. Ready to plan your visit? Check out Cantigny Park’s website to learn more about dates, events, and tips for making the most of your trip. Bring your sense of wonder and prepare to be amazed! Learn More

127 60th St, Downers Grove, IL 6 West Suburban Homes with Pools on the Market Right Now Explore homes with pools in Naperville, Sugar Grove, Oswego, Downers Grove and more. Perfect for summer living, entertaining, and private retreats. Find your dream home today! Dreaming of spending your summer days lounging poolside? These west suburban homes with stunning pools are perfect for creating lasting family memories, entertaining friends, or simply enjoying a private retreat– and each one is currently on the market. 4919 Clearwater Ln, Naperville, IL This $799,999 gem boasts 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, and 2,874 square feet of beautifully updated living space. The large inground pool and firepit on a brick patio make every summer day feel like a celebration. Top-rated schools and a vibrant Naperville location complete the package! VIEW LISTING 4320 Clearwater Ln, Naperville, IL Priced at $949,000, this 5-bedroom home is the perfect backyard retreat. The saltwater pool, outdoor fireplace, and screened porch scream relaxation and entertainment. Award-winning school district and club amenities seal the deal. VIEW LISTING 2252 Joyce Ln, Naperville, IL For $950,000, this 5-bedroom, 4.5-bath residence feels like an everyday getaway. With a private pool, open-concept kitchen, and an extra-spacious owner’s suite, this home combines practicality with luxury. VIEW LISTING 750 Tudor Ct, Sugar Grove, IL This $725,000 property features over 5,000 square feet of luxury living, offering a pool and Trex deck to create your backyard paradise. A mahogany wet bar and rec space give stunning appeal to the basement oasis. VIEW LISTING 127 60th St, Downers Grove, IL Listed at $1,199,000, this 5,586-square-foot masterpiece redefines elegance. An inground pool, luxe primary suite, and outdoor firepit deliver every luxury you can imagine. VIEW LISTING 5085 Half Round Rd, Oswego, IL Discover unparalleled luxury at 5085 Half Round Rd, Oswego, IL! Priced at $1,400,000, this stunning 5-bedroom, 5-bathroom estate spans 5,386 square feet of pure sophistication. Indulge in the resort-style living with an exquisite inground pool, an expansive chef's kitchen, and a breathtaking outdoor area perfect for entertaining. This home is the ultimate retreat, combining elegance and comfort in every detail. Don’t miss this rare gem—your dream lifestyle awaits! VIEW LISTING    These sensational west suburban homes with pools are waiting to make your summer unforgettable. Don’t miss your chance to make one of these your dream home! VIEW ALL REAL ESTATE

834 Sunset, Geneva, Illinois Record-Breaking Home Sale in Kane County: $4.85 Million Luxury Property in Geneva GENEVA–The real estate world in Kane County, Illinois, just witnessed an extraordinary milestone. Realtor Meg Whitted, founder of The Mrs. Whitted Collective Baird & Warner Fox Valley , has achieved the highest home sale in Kane County history —a stunning $4.85 million property in Geneva. Here's what you need to know about this record-breaking sale, the property that turned heads. What Makes This Sale Groundbreaking? This $4.85 million home is more than just a piece of property—it’s a statement about the rising value of luxury real estate in Kane County. It's an exciting moment for Geneva, a market often overshadowed by Chicago's metropolitan prominence. This achievement pushes forward the notion that the west suburban market has untapped potential for luxury properties and high-value sales. Explore Luxury in Geneva, Where History Meets Modern Living Located in the heart of west suburban Chicago, Geneva is a gem for real estate investors, homebuyers, and developers alike . The town boasts a charming mix of historic homes, trendy downtown amenities, and highly desirable upscale properties like the one in this record-setting sale. This luxury home exemplified the best of what Geneva has to offer, combining architectural beauty with modern amenities. If you're someone who values proximity to Chicago without sacrificing peace, charm, and space, Geneva’s market presents attractive opportunities beyond this sale. Looking Ahead for Kane County Real Estate This achievement begs the question—what’s next for Kane County’s luxury market? With the combined factors of desirable suburban living, expert marketing, and a growing recognition of its communities’ value, there’s no doubt we’ll see more such milestones in the future.

Sipping for a Cause– One Tail at a Time....with Tipsy Tails Mobile Bar CHICAGOLAND–Elevate your event with Tipsy Tails Mobile Bar — a stylish mobile bar and professional dry hire bartending service. They don’t sell alcohol, but they do bring the setup, tools, and talent to serve your drinks flawlessly. Perfect for weddings, private parties, and special celebrations. You supply the booze, they bring the bar! BONUS: Every event helps support local dog rescues. So, you’re not just celebrating love—you’re spreading it. Booking now for 2025 events throughout Chicagoland! Learn More

Explore these Exciting Trends throughout the Midwest When Planning Your Summer Road Trip When it comes to summer getaways, there's something extraordinary about road-tripping through the Midwest. With rolling prairies, sparkling lakes, charming small towns, and endless opportunities for adventure, the heartland of America comes alive during the sunny season. Midwest summer road trips are trending like never before, and 2025 promises a whole new lineup of unforgettable destinations and experiences. From quaint small towns to thrilling outdoor activities, these ten trends will inspire you to hit the road and explore the Midwest like never before. Pack your bags, grab your favorite road trip playlist, and let's begin the ultimate adventure. #1 Small Town Exploration The charm of the Midwest is epitomized by its picturesque small towns. Travelers are skipping the big cities and heading to cozy, off-the-map destinations. Spots like Galena, Illinois , and Park Rapids, Minnesota , present visitors with historic architecture, unique shops, and welcoming cafes. What to Do: Stroll down Galena’s Main Street for boutique shopping and antiques. Visit Stillwater, Minnesota, to explore quaint bookstores and savor homemade fudge. Experience local life at farmers’ markets, featuring fresh produce and handmade crafts. Small towns also bring cultural events into focus, like art walks and local music nights, enriching your road trip experience with heartfelt community energy. #2 Brewery and Winery Tours Midwest breweries and wineries are winning hearts (and taste buds). With an explosion of craft beverage options, many are turning their road trips into routes featuring the best sips in the region. Must-Visit Breweries and Wineries: New Glarus Brewing Company in Wisconsin for their famous Spotted Cow beer. Stone Hill Winery in Hermann, Missouri , known for its award-winning Norton wines. Great River Road Wine Trail , spanning multiple Midwest states, offers flavorful pit stops. Pair stunning vineyard views with tastings and craft your itinerary around discovering these homegrown brews and bottles. #3 Outdoor Adventure Activities Adventure seekers are leaning into the Midwest's natural beauty with outdoor activities that get their adrenaline pumping or allow them to unwind in scenic surroundings. Popular Outdoor Destinations: Go rock climbing at Devil's Lake State Park in Wisconsin . Kayak along the rivers of the Ozarks. Take a biking expedition on the Katy Trail in Missouri, one of the longest rails-to-trails paths in the U.S. Nature enthusiasts will find endless satisfaction exploring the region’s pristine landscapes, waterfalls, and trails. #4 Historical Site Visits History buffs, rejoice! Midwest road trips offer a chance to immerse yourself in fascinating historical narratives, with sites that bring the past to life. Historical Highlights: Abraham Lincoln’s Home in Springfield, Illinois The Gateway Arch in St. Louis, Missouri Fort Snelling in Minnesota, where you can learn about the Dakota war Whether your passion is Civil War history or pioneers traveling west, the Midwest is brimming with stories waiting to be uncovered. #5 Music Festivals and Concerts Your Midwest road trip just got louder! Music festivals are popping up across the region, and their diverse lineups are drawing visitors near and far. Don’t-Miss Events: Summerfest in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the largest music festival in the world The Country Fest in North Lawrence, Ohio, showcasing country artists Chicago Blues Festival, a celebration of soulful tunes Get ready to dance under the stars as the Midwest puts its musical talent on center stage. #6 Foodie Destinations and Local Cuisine No road trip is complete without indulging in local flavors, and the Midwest delivers big on delicious dining. Food-focused road trippers are following their noses to iconic restaurants, food trucks, and culinary hot spots. Taste-Test Worthy Stops: Home of deep-dish pizza, Chicago is a must for pizza lovers Kansas City for finger-licking barbecue Cheese lovers will delight in Wisconsin’s fresh cheese curds and farm-to-table fare The region’s culinary creativity satisfies cravings while supporting local businesses. #7 Lake and River Activities Whether you’re looking to relax by the water or jump into the action, the Midwest’s lakes and rivers make the perfect road trip destination. Water Adventures to Try: Rent a pontoon on Lake Geneva in Wisconsin Go stand-up paddleboarding on the Chain of Lakes in Minnesota Embark on a peaceful riverboat cruise along the Mississippi Lake life is thriving, and there's no shortage of opportunities to soak up the sun and recharge by the water. #8 Camping and Glamping Experiences From rustic camping to luxury glamping, the Midwest has embraced overnight outdoor stays as a top road trip trend. Best Spots: Sleep under the stars at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in Michigan Glamp in style in a yurt at Starved Rock State Park, Illinois Reserve a lakeside cabin in Indiana Dunes National Park Disconnect from the daily grind and reconnect with nature on an unforgettable overnight adventure. #9 Art and Cultural Festivals Road trippers are chasing arts and culture across the Midwest by timing their travels with vibrant festivals. Cultural Experiences to Consider: Explore hundreds of stands during Iowa City’s Arts Festival . Marvel at sculptures at Kansas City’s Plaza Art Fair. Celebrate diversity at Detroit’s World Music Festival . These one-of-a-kind events highlight the creativity that drives communities in the Midwest. #10 Agritourism and Farm Visits Agritourism is grounding travelers in authentic farm life experiences, connecting them directly with the land and its produce. Farm Experiences: Apple picking at Michigan’s Blake Farms Touring dairy farms in Wisconsin Seasonal berry picking in Indiana You’ll leave these experiences not just with bags of fresh produce but with cherished memories of warm-hearted rural Americana. #11 | BONUS! On the Cover: Marblehead Lighthouse No Midwest road trip is complete without a stop at the iconic Marblehead Lighthouse in Ohio ! Standing tall along the scenic shores of Lake Erie, this historic gem is the oldest continuously operating lighthouse on the Great Lakes, dating back to 1822. Visitors can climb to the top for jaw-dropping views of the lake, nearby islands, and the mesmerizing horizon. Perfect for photography enthusiasts and history buffs alike, Marblehead Lighthouse offers a blend of natural beauty and fascinating stories from the past. Don’t forget to explore the charming nearby town for local eats and souvenirs—it’s a must-visit destination for your 2025 summer adventure! Your Summer Adventure Starts with these Midwest Road Trip Trends The Midwest is more than just a region; it’s a road trip paradise waiting to be explored. With so many trending destinations and activities, there’s something for every kind of traveler this summer. Whether it’s sipping craft beer, hiking along breathtaking trails, or immersing yourself in local culture, your perfect adventure is just a drive away. Don’t overthink it. Pack your bags, chart your course, and set off to discover what makes Midwest road-trips so special. Happy travels!

Pickle Paradise Festival Returns to Pottawatomie Park in St. Charles Brace for It St. Charles, this is a Really Big Dill – Pickle Paradise Festival Returns to Pottawatomie Park   ST. CHARLES–Pickle Paradise, a dill-cious party in Pottawatomie Park, returns for the evening of Friday, June 20 as the St. Charles Park District invites all ages to celebrate the city’s notoriety as the Pickle Capital of the World.   The St. Charles Park District hosted the inaugural Pickle Paradise in 2024 and the community response was fantastic as fans showed their love for pickles, explained Taylor Krawczyk, assistant superintendent of recreation for the St. Charles Park District.   “We were so thrilled,” Krawczyk said.   This year’s events include a fun run, sampling food and spirits made with pickle flavoring hand of course, a pickleball tournament.   “We love that people want to come out, enjoy a summer evening in the park and embrace the city’s pickle history,” Krawczyk said.   The St. Charles Park District has assembled a host of local businesses to share samples of their pickle creations in the Pickle Patch.  Last year businesses served up pickle-flavored candy, actual pickles and much more, Krawczyk said. Admission to the Pickle Patch is $5 and advance registration recommended as last year’s tickets sold out, Krawczyk said. All proceeds will support the St. Charles Park District’s Financial Aid Program, which helps residents of all ages benefit from the classes and experiences offered through the park district.   Work up a pickle appetite in a petite run through Pottawatomie Park with a refueling stop for a gherkin mid-way in the Dill Dash at 5 p.m. The untimed 1-mile run with a route that involves stairs, a gravel trail and running up a hill includes a complimentary admission to the Pickle Patch pickle product tasting. Last year participants donned their favorite green accessories, from tutus to green beads, even dressing like a pickle too. Pickle Paradise Festival Returns to Pottawatomie Park   Pickle celebrations include a mixed-doubles pickleball tournament from 4-6 p.m. with awards to the top three finishers. Players must be 18 and older and advance registration is required due to limited court space.   For those who prefer their pickle juice chilled, reserve a wristband to Dilly Delights, where Pollyanna and Riverlands Brewing companies will be serving pickle-inspired adult beverages. Must be 21 and older for entry and it’s a cashless purchase for beverages. Save on entry time and reserve a wristband in advance on the park district website.   Krawczyk said there will also be food trucks on site, yard games and entertainment including trivia with volunteers from the St. Charles History Museum, who helped inspire the pickle celebration, sharing how a little pickle publicity helped the city earn its fame.   It wasn’t pickle packing or pickle processing, but rather St. Charles earned its distinction as the pickle capital from the Pickle Packers International, or as it’s known, PPI, an agency designed to promote the benefits of pickles. The agency’s roots date back to 1892. In the 1960s St. Charles resident William Moore moved the agency to his town, setting up an office at 108 ½ East Main Street during his tenure as president for the agency. Known as Bill “The Dill” Moore, he unofficially named St. Charles the “Pickle Capital of the World” and the moniker stuck. In 1978 the state legislature made an official proclamation, forever brining the title into the town’s history.   Pickle Paradise fun will run 5:30-7:30 p.m. and it’s free admission to the park. Along with the pickle festivities the River View Miniature Golf will be open until 10 p.m.  Learn More

Cadillac Palace, Chicago Features Beauty and the Beast, July 9 through August 2 Be Our Guest at Disney’s newly reimagined 30th Anniversary production of BEAUTY AND THE BEAST, the breathtaking musical filled with the romance and grandeur audiences know and love. This enchanting and timeless tale has been brought to life like never before, with spectacular new sets and dazzling costumes. The show boasts the Oscar®-winning and Tony Award®-nominated score, including the classic songs “Be Our Guest” and “Beauty and the Beast.” Reuniting to create this new production are members of the original Tony Award®-winning artistic team, including composer Alan Menken, lyricist Tim Rice, book writer Linda Woolverton, with direction and choreography by Matt West, scenic design by Stanley A. Meyer, costume design by Ann Hould-Ward and lighting design by Natasha Katz. BEAUTY AND THE BEAST is the beloved musical that will fill your heart with joy and Disney magic. www.cadillacpalacetheatre.com

3 Local Women & their Families Share on Summer Fun Locally Our Cover Story celebrates the heart and spirit of summer with local moms who’ve shared their bucket list favorites. From twilight picnics to paddleboarding escapes, their ideas will inspire your own warm-weather to-do list. Their adventures are not just about the activities, but the joy of spending time with loved ones. View their story– Sarah Nowak of Naperville Lisa Marasso of Aurora Lisa Motzko Hamilton of Lisle Stories by Kristen Kucharski Photos by Mike Catura and Ruta Drulia

Treat yourself and the entire family all summer long starting with these delightfully sweet treat recipes. Enjoy! Triple Chocolate Mousse Cake Ingredients: For the crust: 2 cups chocolate cookie crumbs 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted For the mousse layers: 1 cup dark chocolate, melted 1 cup milk chocolate, melted 1 cup white chocolate, melted 3 cups heavy cream, divided 1/4 cup powdered sugar (for each mousse layer) For the ganache: 1/2 cup heavy cream 1/2 cup dark chocolate, chopped Instructions: 1. Prepare the Crust: Mix chocolate cookie crumbs with melted butter until well combined. Press the mixture into the bottom of a springform pan and refrigerate. 2. Make the Chocolate Mousse Layers: For each mousse layer, whip 1 cup of heavy cream with 1/4 cup powdered sugar until soft peaks form. Fold in the melted chocolate (one flavor for each layer). Repeat this process for the dark, milk, and white chocolate layers. 3. Assemble the Cake: Spread the dark chocolate mousse evenly over the crust, followed by the milk chocolate mousse, and then the white chocolate mousse. Refrigerate for 4-6 hours, or until fully set. 4. Prepare the Ganache: Heat the heavy cream and pour over the chopped dark chocolate. Let it sit for 2-3 minutes, then stir until smooth. Pour the ganache over the top of the set mousse cake. 5. Decorate and Serve: Garnish with fresh raspberries, chocolate swirls, and mint leaves for an elegant touch. Patriotic Poke Cake Red, White & Blue Jello Poke Cake for Celebrations Ingredients: 1 box white cake mix (plus ingredients required on the box: eggs, oil, water) 1 (3 oz) package strawberry or cherry flavored gelatin 1 (3 oz) package blueberry or blue raspberry flavored gelatin 2 cups boiling water (1 cup per gelatin flavor) 1 cup cold water (1/2 cup per gelatin flavor) 1 (8 oz) tub whipped topping (like Cool Whip), thawed Red, white, and blue sprinkles or fresh berries for garnish Directions: Prepare and bake the white cake according to the box instructions in a 9x13 inch pan. Let it cool completely. Once cooled, use the end of a wooden spoon to poke holes all over the cake, about 1 inch apart. In two separate bowls, dissolve each gelatin flavor in 1 cup of boiling water. Stir until dissolved, then add 1/2 cup cold water to each. Carefully pour the red gelatin over one half of the cake and the blue over the other half, making sure it seeps into the holes. Cover and refrigerate the cake for at least 3 hours, or until gelatin is set. Spread whipped topping evenly over the cake. Decorate with sprinkles or arrange fresh strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries in a flag pattern if desired. No-Bake S’Mores Bars by Caked by Katie A deliciously easy spin on a classic summer treat, these gluten-free and vegan no-bake s’mores bars are sweet, salty, and loaded with s’more goodness. I guarantee you’re going to fall in love with these simple dietary and allergy-friendly no-bake treats. Bonus: no campfire needed! 1 bag (250g) vegan chocolate chips 1 tablespoon (15ml) coconut oil 3 cups (135g) vegan mini marshmallows 3 cups (224g/approx 14 crackers) gluten-free vegan graham crackers, roughly chopped into pieces 1 teaspoon coarse sea salt optional: addition graham crackers and salt for sprinkling on top Prepare an 8×8-inch pan with parchment paper and non-stick baking spray . In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the chocolate chips and coconut oil. Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring after each interval, until fully melted and smooth. Allow to cool for 1 minute. Add in the mini marshmallows, chopped graham crackers, and salt (if using) and gently fold together. Pour the s’mores mixture into the prepared pan and firmly press down. Top with additional graham cracker pieces and/or crumbs and coarse sea salt if desired. Place in the refrigerator and allow to chill until set. Slice and enjoy! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 weeks or frozen for up to 6 months. No-Bake Strawberry Cheesecake Jars Creamy, fruity, and perfect for a sweet treat! Ingredients: For the crust: 1 cup graham cracker crumbs 2 tablespoons granulated sugar 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted For the cheesecake filling: 8 oz cream cheese, softened ½ cup powdered sugar 1 teaspoon vanilla extract ½ cup heavy whipping cream ½ cup fresh strawberries, pureed For the strawberry topping: 1 cup fresh strawberries, chopped ¼ cup granulated sugar 1 teaspoon lemon juice For decoration: Whipped cream Sliced fresh strawberries Instructions: In a bowl, mix the graham cracker crumbs, sugar, and melted butter. Press a spoonful of the mixture into the bottom of each jar. Set aside. In a mixing bowl, beat the cream cheese until smooth. Add powdered sugar, vanilla extract, and strawberry puree, mixing until combined. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream until stiff peaks form, then fold it into the cream cheese mixture. Spoon the filling over the crust layer in the jars. In a small saucepan, combine chopped strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Simmer over low heat for about 5 minutes until the strawberries soften and release their juices. Let cool before spooning over the cheesecake layer. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before serving. Decoration Tips: Top with a swirl of whipped cream for extra elegance. Arrange fresh sliced strawberries for a vibrant and refreshing look. Serve in clear jars or glasses to showcase the beautiful layers. Garnish with a mint leaf for a fresh contrast.

The Accident Took Place in a Residential Driveway ST. CHARLES–The St. Charles community is in shock and mourning following a devastating accident that resulted in the death of a young child. The incident occurred on the afternoon of Tuesday, May 27, 2025, in the 4000 block of Royal Fox Drive. Authorities from the St. Charles Police and Fire Departments responded promptly to reports of a crash involving a 5-year-old who had been struck in a residential driveway. Details of the Royal Fox Drive Crash According to a press release, at approximately 5:09 p.m., first responders arrived at the scene to find a neighbor performing CPR on the child. Taking over immediately, police officers and firefighters administered life-saving measures in an effort to stabilize the young victim. Despite their dedicated efforts, the child was transported to Northwestern Medicine Delnor Hospital, where he was later pronounced deceased. The driver involved in the crash was identified as an immediate family member. Authorities have confirmed that the individual has been fully cooperative throughout the investigation. Ongoing Investigation and Support The St. Charles Police Department is working diligently to investigate the circumstances surrounding this accident. Forensic assistance has been provided by the Kane County Accident Reconstruction Team (KCART), a specialized unit that aids in analyzing complex traffic incidents. Law enforcement officials are urging anyone with information about the incident to step forward to assist in the investigation. Witness accounts or any related details that might clarify the events leading to this tragedy are immensely valuable. If you have any information, please contact the St. Charles Police Department at 630.377.4435 . A Community in Mourning This heartbreaking event has left the St. Charles community grieving for the young child and their family. The St. Charles Police and Fire Departments, alongside the child’s neighbors and family, demonstrated incredible effort and care in responding swiftly during this emergency. The entire community stands in solidarity, offering their support to the family during this unimaginable time of loss.

Lisa Motzko Hamilton of Lisle & Her Kids Share their 6 Sunny Day Must-Dos Around Town LISLE–After stints in Chicago, NYC, and her native Wisconsin, Lisa has called Lisle home for the past seven years.  She’s a proud single mom to two awesome kids—Aodhan (8) and Sloane (7)—plus two rescue cats with big personalities: Busta Boo (a foster fail from Chicago Animal Control ) and Salem (adopted via Lulu’s Locker , where Lisa once fostered and volunteered). After years of leading powerhouse teams in the beauty world—including a top exec role at Ulta Beauty —Lisa co-founded Breakthru Beauty  with fellow beauty industry trailblazer Allison Slater Ray. Their goal? To boost brand success in specialty beauty retail, focusing on giants like Ulta and  Sephora . With Lisa’s makeup leadership background and Allison’s Sephora marketing experience, they’re a dynamic duo helping brands shine—while juggling motherhood, workouts, and never missing a soccer game or college tour (even if it means late-night calls to Korea). Lisa is passionate about confidence-boosting beauty and believes in the magic of the perfect lipstick; and her daughter Sloane shares that love.  Life for Lisa is a joyful mix of chaos and magic, filled with barre classes, rooftop swims, pickleball, and always putting on her own oxygen mask first. Can you share a quote by someone you admire, famous or not that inspires you daily?   Be where your feet are - unknown.   I have been focused on living in the present.  I have learned that life can be short & we must enjoy every moment.  I lost my dad over 10 years ago and my younger brother over 5 & they have taught me this.   If your life had a soundtrack or song title right now, what would be the title of the track/song playing during your morning routine with the kids?   The kids love music from my generation, my son asked me if I knew who Eminem  was.....although we don't listen to him at home we LOVE dancing in the car (although Sloane gets super embarrassed).  Lately we have been listening to  Daft Punk  a lot, especially Around the World . My best friend and her daughter come over and we have dance parties in the living room. The girls like to make dance videos.  Last week we were doing the Cupid shuffle !  Lisa Shared Her Summer 2025 Top 6 Sunny Days Must Do Bucket List 1. Walk our neighborhood-forest preserve in our backyard, we have water right behind us with fish, many types of birds, turtles etc.  Enjoying all the baby geese & ducks (waiting for the fuzzy swan babies)   2. Lifetime Oakbrook  gym; rooftop pool, pickleball,  barre & strength training classes,   3. Kids activities; summer camps, tennis lessons, soccer games, golf lessons, piano lessons, gymnastics tech camp, camp compassion   4. Road trips to Lake Geneva  for a weekend with friends; road trip to a lake house in WI  to kayak and boat ride with the kids; road trip to a farm in WI to learn about all that goes into farming, caring for animals, and appreciate where good food comes from   5. Weekend getaway to NYC,  which would be the first time for the kids   6. My own work travel to Korea , the Vegas beauty show, and to NYC/LA for clients -Kristen Kucharski Photos by Mike Catuara

Lisa Marasso of Aurora & Her Family Share 6 Sunny Day Must-Dos Around Town AURORA–Lisa knows how to mix business with a whole lot of fun! A proud Regional Sales Manager at Arauco , she works from her cozy home office, covering Wisconsin, Illinois, and Northern Indiana. Arauco makes composite panels—like Particleboard, MDF, and TFL (that’s Thermally Fused Laminate, for the curious!). She sells to distribution warehouses, which then supply fabricators and woodworkers. Think stylish kitchen cabinets, hotel interiors, video game setups—you name it! She's not just a sales pro, though. With a passion for helping others, she treats her customers more like co-workers. Strong relationships and top-tier customer service? That’s her thing. She's motivated, kind, and always ready to brighten someone’s day. Outside of work, she’s mom to energetic 5-year-old Jack, and married to her partner-in-fun, Rich Salinas. Family life is full of action, from soccer games to T-ball matches and swim meets. When they’re not cheering from the sidelines, you’ll find them soaking up the outdoors together. Whether it’s a morning run or just being active as a family, she’s always on the move and loving every minute of it. What’s something your younger self would find hilarious about your life as a mom now? How much I’m forced to talk about bodily functions with my son   If your life had a soundtrack or song title right now, what would be the title of the track/song playing during your morning routine with the kids?   Oh, baby we’re always in a hurry!  Let’s eat, brush, potty and go! Lisa Shared Her Summer 2025 Top 6 Sunny Days Must Do Bucket List 1. Road Trip!  We are planning to drive down to St. Louis.  There are so many things to do down there but the top things we are going to visit are The City Museum , Magic House , Science Center , and the  Zoo .   2. Cubs  game.  This will be my son’s first professional game, and we are excited to get him his My First Game certificate.   3.  Bengston’s Farm .  They open for summer and it’s great for all the kids rides, pig races, petting zoo and of course the huge corn box.   4. Festivals are a must for us.  We find most cities that do these have a kid area and have the nicest events scheduled such as exotic animals, balloon twisting, face painting, magic shows and the music and snow cones are for everyone in my family.   5. My son has been learning about recycling and the environment, so we plan to participate in a local clean up the streets event.   6.  Naperville’s Wolf’s Crossing Park.   My little guy is a climber, and this place allows him to do just that.  We plan to go when the weather is hot so we can enjoy the Splash Pad. We bring a bucket, and he can spend hours there.   -Kristen Kucharski Photos by Mike Catuara