Aurora’s Newest Hot Spot? Noriteo at Fox Valley Mall!

Step Inside the Halloween BooLoon Experience at FunTime Services Party Rentals.Looking for the ultimate Halloween photo op? Naperville just delivered the must-see event of the season the Halloween BooLoon Experience hosted by FunTime Services Party Rentals! Packed with towering balloon sculptures, immersive displays, and candy galore, this one-of-a-kind indoor Halloween experience is pure magic for families, kids, and social media lovers alike.What to Expect at the Halloween BooLoon ExperienceHeld at 536 Route 59 in Naperville, this vibrant event transforms indoor space into a balloon-filled Halloween wonderland that delights all ages. From jaw-dropping decorations to interactive zones, the experience is designed to wow your eyes and your camera lens. Instagram-Worthy Highlights:🕷 Giant 30-ft Balloon Spider👻 Haunted 360° Photo Booth🍬 Candyland Balloon Sculptures🎅 Spooky Christmas SleighEvent Info:📍 Location: 536 Route 59, Naperville 🕒 Dates:October 18–19 & 25–26 | 11 AM – 4 PMSelect weekdays through October 30 (check social media or website for weekday openings)Perfect for All AgesThe BooLoon Experience is family-friendly and totally indoors rain or shine, your Halloween fun is covered. Trick-or-treat stations keep the little ones busy while teens and adults can dive into themed photo booths and larger-than-life displays.Pro Tips for Your Visit:Costumes are highly encouraged for the best photosBring a phone or camera with extra battery you’ll want lots of picsFollow @funtime_services on social media for updates and special weekday hoursWhether you're looking to entertain the kids, plan a unique date, or just boost your Halloween content game, the Halloween BooLoon Experience at FunTime Services Party Rentals is the place to be this spooky season.

When it comes to your child’s health, finding a trusted pediatrician close to home makes all the difference. That’s exactly what Healthy Beginnings Pediatrics—with offices in Aurora and Plano—provides for families across the Fox Valley. With a team dedicated to wellness, prevention, and compassionate care, Healthy Beginnings has become a go-to pediatric home for local parents.A Welcoming Approach to Pediatric CareAt Healthy Beginnings Pediatrics, the goal is simple: make every child feel comfortable and cared for. From the moment families walk through the door, the staff creates an atmosphere that puts kids at ease. Parents often mention that their children are happy to come back—proof that a kid-friendly environment can make checkups less stressful and more positive.The practice provides bilingual services in English and Spanish, ensuring more families in Aurora’s diverse community have access to quality healthcare without language barriers.Services That Matter Most to ParentsHealthy Beginnings offers a wide range of pediatric services designed to support children at every stage of growth:Well-child exams to monitor development and provide preventative care.Immunizations to keep kids protected and healthy.Same-day sick visits, because colds, fevers, and unexpected illnesses can’t wait.Special attention to family education, empowering parents with knowledge about nutrition, milestones, and when to seek medical attention.With convenient office hours at both Aurora (403 W. Galena Blvd., Suite 203) and Plano, the team works to make quality healthcare as accessible as possible.Meet the TeamOne of the key figures at Healthy Beginnings is Dr. Sylvia Trevino, whose reputation for thorough and compassionate care has made her a trusted name among local families. Alongside a caring staff, Dr. Trevino helps provide a level of personal attention that parents value.A Partner in the CommunityHealthy Beginnings Pediatrics isn’t just about medical visits—it’s about becoming a resource for families. Their approach extends beyond the exam room, offering guidance and reassurance to parents navigating the ups and downs of raising healthy kids.By maintaining two accessible locations and ensuring every family feels welcome, Healthy Beginnings plays an important role in building a healthier, stronger community in Aurora and Plano nearby Yorkville.How to Get InvolvedParents looking for pediatric care can schedule an appointment or learn more by visiting kidshealthybeginnings.com.📍 Aurora Location: 403 W. Galena Blvd., Suite 203, Aurora, IL📍 Plano Location: 1200 W US Highway 34 Suite D, Plano, IL🌐 Website: kidshealthybeginnings.comWhether it’s a child’s first checkup, routine immunizations, or a sudden illness, Healthy Beginnings Pediatrics is there to ensure every family has a trusted partner in their child’s health.

Aurora, IL — When it comes to home renovations, the details make all the difference. For homeowners across Aurora and the western suburbs, Stone Renovations & Trim Company LLC has become a trusted name for quality, craftsmanship, and customer-focused service. Specializing in kitchens, bathrooms, flooring, and custom trim work, this local company is helping families turn houses into dream homes.A Local Leader in Home RenovationFounded right here in Aurora, Stone Renovations has built its reputation on professionalism, precision, and integrity. Unlike large impersonal chains, their team takes the time to listen, understand, and design around each client’s unique vision.Their services include:Kitchen Remodeling – from modern cabinetry and countertops to functional layouts.Bathroom Remodeling – creating spa-like spaces with custom tile, vanities, and finishes.Flooring – installation of hardwood, laminate, tile, and luxury vinyl.Custom Trim & Moldings – crown molding, wainscoting, baseboards, and detailed finish work that elevate interiors.Painting & Interior Finishes – giving homes a polished, refreshed look.Whether it’s a full remodel or a small update, Stone Renovations delivers results that balance style, durability, and value.Why Homeowners Trust Stone RenovationsHome renovation is a major investment, and homeowners need a contractor they can trust. Stone Renovations stands out by offering:Free In-Home Consultations – so clients can explore options without pressure.Flexible Financing – making renovations accessible without overwhelming budgets.Licensed & Insured Professionals – peace of mind that every project is done right.Attention to Detail – especially in trim, cabinetry, and finishing work that many overlook.Strong Local Reputation – with reviews highlighting their communication, punctuality, and high-quality craftsmanship.The Power of CraftsmanshipWhat sets Stone Renovations apart is their focus on the finishing touches. Custom cabinetry, detailed trim, and precise flooring work aren’t just add-ons—they’re what turn a renovation from ordinary into extraordinary. Their skilled team treats each project as an opportunity to showcase craftsmanship, ensuring that every corner, joint, and detail looks perfect.Supporting the Aurora CommunityAs a locally owned and operated company, Stone Renovations contributes to Aurora’s growing reputation as a place where small businesses drive big impact. By keeping projects rooted in professionalism and care, they not only upgrade homes but also strengthen community trust in local trades.Ready to Renovate?Stone Renovations makes the process straightforward and approachable:Schedule a free consultation to discuss your project.Explore design and material options tailored to your goals.Bring your vision to life with expert craftsmanship and project management.📍 Based in Aurora, IL and serving Oswego, Naperville, Batavia, and surrounding suburbs.🌐 Learn more: stonerenovationsllc.comFinal ThoughtsIf you’re considering a home renovation, choosing the right contractor is the most important decision you’ll make. Stone Renovations & Trim Company LLC combines expertise, transparency, and artistry to create spaces that homeowners love for years to come.From kitchens and bathrooms to trim and flooring, they bring the craftsmanship that makes houses feel like home.

In today’s fast-paced world, finding balance and emotional well-being is essential. That’s where Flourishing Lives Counseling steps in, offering compassionate, evidence-based care for children, teens, and adults across Naperville, Aurora, and the surrounding Fox Valley.Founded by Dr. Nancy Rivas, Flourishing Lives Counseling brings together a team of licensed therapists, counselors, and psychiatric providers who specialize in treating anxiety, depression, trauma, grief, and life transitions. With services tailored for children, teenagers, college students, and families, their mission is to help every client grow, heal, and thrive.What Sets Them Apart?Holistic Approach: Combining traditional therapies with cutting-edge techniques such as EMDR, Brainspotting, and Somatic Experiencing.Specialized Care: Support for adoption issues, eating disorders, Christian counseling, and psychiatric medication management.Flexible Options: Both in-person sessions in Naperville and telehealth appointments for accessible care.Community Focused: Serving families across Aurora, Naperville, Yorkville, Oswego, and surrounding areas.Why It MattersMental health impacts every area of life—from relationships and parenting to careers and self-esteem. Flourishing Lives Counseling not only addresses symptoms but empowers clients with tools for resilience, communication, and emotional regulation. Their services have already made a difference for countless families navigating life’s challenges.How to Get InvolvedReady to take the first step? Flourishing Lives Counseling is currently accepting new patients. Whether you’re looking for therapy for your child, guidance for navigating trauma, or support for managing stress, their team is here to walk alongside you.📍 Visit them online at FlourishingLivesCounseling.com or call (331) 229-3123 to schedule an appointment.

When you drive past Waubonsee Community College’s Sugar Grove campus, you might notice something new rising above the horizon: the Technical Education Center (TEC). At 100,000 square feet and $60 million in investment, this isn’t just another campus building. It’s a statement about where education, industry, and community are heading — and why Aurora and the Fox Valley should pay attention.Why This Building MattersFor years, Waubonsee’s Automotive, Welding, and Collision Technology programs have trained students in spaces that, while functional, were limited in size and scope. Students often had to work around outdated infrastructure or compete for limited lab time. Employers, meanwhile, have been raising the alarm about a shortage of skilled workers, especially as industries evolve with electric vehicles, robotic welding, and advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).The TEC addresses both needs head-on. With expanded labs, modernized equipment, and integrated classrooms, students will be trained on the very tools they’ll see in today’s workplaces. More capacity means more students can enroll, and more graduates can quickly transition into high-demand jobs.A Shift in How We See EducationHistorically, many parents and students alike placed four-year universities on a pedestal, while trades and technical fields were seen as a “backup.” But the job market tells a different story. Skilled technicians are not only in demand — they’re essential. And the pay, career advancement, and entrepreneurial opportunities rival (and often surpass) those in traditional office-based roles.By building the TEC, Waubonsee is signaling that career and technical education (CTE) is not secondary — it’s central. This shift challenges old stigmas and opens doors for high school graduates, adult learners, and career changers alike.Community and Economic ImpactThe ripple effects of this building go beyond students. Local industries, from auto repair shops to advanced manufacturing, now have a pipeline of job-ready talent. Aurora, Batavia, Yorkville, and the wider Fox Valley could see less reliance on out-of-area workers and a stronger local economy.Employers benefit from reduced training costs, since graduates come prepared with hands-on experience in state-of-the-art labs. Families benefit as students can secure stable, well-paying jobs without years of debt. And the community benefits from a more resilient workforce, especially as technology continues to reshape what “skilled labor” looks like.Looking AheadWaubonsee’s TEC isn’t just about today’s jobs — it’s about anticipating tomorrow’s. The inclusion of electric vehicle bays, robotic welding equipment, and flexible classroom spaces ensures the building can adapt as industries evolve. It’s a recognition that education must not only meet current needs but also prepare for future ones.Why Aurora Should CareAurora residents have long been connected to Waubonsee, whether through dual-credit high school programs, continuing education, or career training. The TEC brings those connections closer to home. For Aurora’s youth, it means more direct pathways into thriving careers. For local employers, it means stronger partnerships and a reason to invest in the community.Final Thought:The new Technical Education Center isn’t just a building — it’s a promise. A promise that the Fox Valley will remain competitive, that students will be prepared for tomorrow’s jobs, and that the trades will finally get the respect they deserve.

Joliet, IL — What happens when an artwork refuses to “make sense,” when it resists tidy explanations and pushes us to sit with discomfort? In her new book, Painful Forms: Aesthetic Violence in American Literature and Art, 1945–2001(University of North Carolina Press, publishing October 21), Anna Ioanes, Associate Professor of English at the University of St. Francis, argues that this very resistance—what she calls aesthetic violence—has shaped the way Americans perceive suffering, justice, and social life from the end of World War II through the turn of the millennium.What Is “Aesthetic Violence”—and Why It Matters NowDrawing on a term first introduced by scholars Leo Bersani and Ulysse Dutoit, Ioanes defines aesthetic violence as the experience audiences have when artworks thwart our usual sense-making strategies. Rather than offering clear moral instruction or sentimental catharsis, these works complicate our responses to pain, asking us to slow down and reconsider what we think we know about harm, care, and accountability. Ioanes shows how that destabilizing effect isn’t a flaw—it’s a formal achievement that opens space for new ideas about violence, identity, and power.Five “Painful Forms,” Five Ways Art Reframes SufferingOrganized around five distinct artistic strategies, Painful Forms traces how literature, visual art, and performance during the long civil-rights era reframed public conversations about violence—structural, systemic, or senseless—and how audiences learned to read it.Frames that unsettle: Juxtaposing James Baldwin’s frame narratives with Andy Warhol’s silkscreens, Ioanes shows how “framing” can refuse easy explanations and expose violence’s rhetorical packaging.Happenings that keep meaning open: Through Yoko Ono’s performance, poetry, and multimedia work, the book examines the happening as a technique that preserves productive ambiguity about what violence means and who defines it.Grotesque cautions: Reading Flannery O’Connor alongside her friendship with experimental playwright Maryat Lee, Ioanes demonstrates how the grotesque can warn against misrecognizing suffering where it isn’t—or overlooking it where it is.Outlines and shadows: Pairing Toni Morrison’s fiction with Kara Walker’s cut-paper silhouettes, the study explores how pared-down forms short-circuit reflexive emotion, forcing more deliberate moral attention.Collage as counterforce: From Kathy Acker’s avant-garde novels to riot grrrl zines, collage emerges as a way for readers to assemble sense amid cultural noise and contest the violences that shape daily life.A concluding chapter brings these insights forward, showing how aesthetic violence helps us interpret contemporary representations of suffering and the ways images and narratives now circulate across feeds, headlines, and screens.A Local Scholar with a National ConversationA teacher of American literature, writing, and cultural theory in USF’s College of Arts & Sciences, Professor Ioanesbrings archival research and formal analysis together to bridge campus, community, and national discourse. Her contribution arrives at a moment when readers, students, and citizens alike are grappling with how artworks—from museum exhibitions to streaming series—shape our moral attention.Duke University scholar Stephanie Li calls Painful Forms “a significant contribution,” praising its rich dialogue between texts and artworks and its fresh account of how aesthetics and ethics intersect in late-twentieth-century U.S. culture.Why This Book Belongs on Your Fall Reading ListTimely lens: Offers tools for reading difficult art and media without dulling their critical edge.Cross-media insight: Moves fluidly among novels, performances, visual art, and zines—perfect for readers of literature, art history, and cultural studies.Civic relevance: Speaks to today’s questions about testimony, trauma, representation, and the politics of looking.Pre-Order & Learn MorePainful Forms is available for pre-order in paperback, hardcover, and ebook through UNC Press, Bookshop.org, and major booksellers. Explore the book page and details here: https://uncpress.org/9781469688947/painful-forms/.For media/review copies: Helen Kyriakoudes (UNC Press), helen.kyriakoudes@uncpress.org.Photo credit: Jaclyn Duske (author portrait).Fast Facts (for sharing)Title: Painful Forms: Aesthetic Violence in American Literature and Art, 1945–2001Author: Anna Ioanes, Associate Professor of English, University of St. Francis (Joliet, IL)Publisher: University of North Carolina PressPublication Date: October 21Scope: Post-WWII to 9/11; literature, visual art, performance; Baldwin, Warhol, Ono, O’Connor, Morrison, Walker, Acker, riot grrrl

Bolingbrook, IL — Craving something flavorful, fast, and different? Riceby has been turning heads with its fresh, handheld Asian fusion eats. Born from a love for bold flavor and convenience, this spot serves up creative bites that hit the sweet spot for both flavor seekers and people on-the-go. What Is Riceby?Riceby is a fast-service drive-thru and takeout restaurant in Bolingbrook specializing in handheld Asian fusion menu items influenced by Filipino, Japanese, and Korean flavors. Their menu features mashups like onigiri, musubi, pancit wraps, rice bowls, lumpia, bubble teas, and more—every item curated for flavor, comfort, and convenience. What People Love About RicebyFlavor & Variety: From curry chicken onigiri and pork adobo musubi to crisp lumpia and refreshing bubble teas (passion fruit, mango, etc.), there’s something for everyone. Handheld & On-the-Go Friendly: Meals you can eat easily while commuting, working, or grabbing something quick without sacrificing taste. Drive-thru and takeout make it super accessible. Friendly Prices: Many reviewers mention the value—big flavors without breaking the bank. How Riceby Is Impacting the Local CommunityRiceby does more than serve food—it adds variety and culture to the Bolingbrook / Aurora-area food scene. It gives locals access to flavors they might not find elsewhere easily. For families, students, and busy workers who want something tasty but fast, Riceby fills that gap.It also seems to have earned respect quickly—good ratings, high customer satisfaction, and buzz about the presentation and menu. Top Menu PicksCombo 1 “Rice Your Hand Up!” – any two pieces of onigiri, musubi, or a pancit wrap + drink + lumpia. Plain Rice Bowl / Beef Bulgogi / Vegetable Bibimbap – for those craving hearty bowls. Desserts & Treats – cassava cake, ube crinkle cookie, and bubble tea get called out often. Visiting Riceby📍 Located at 433 W Boughton Rd, Bolingbrook, IL 60440 — models as drive-through + takeout. 🕒 Hours open daily 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM. (closed on Tuesdays)Final ThoughtsIf you want something fresh, flavorful, and easy to grab on your schedule, Riceby is doing it right. It stands out for its fusion concept, strong value, and hand-friendly eats that fit the moment without compromising taste. Definitely worth a try if you’re nearby (or willing to drive for something good).

Halloween is creeping up fast!What’s your go-to Halloween activity in the Aurora area?After you vote in the poll, drop the event name, school, church, or business that hosts it!Let’s help the whole community discover awesome ways to celebrate this spooky season!Bonus: Tag your favorite event page or organizer so others can join the fun!

Oswego, IL — In a time when secondhand shopping is trending worldwide, Mixed Market Thrift has carved out a space that’s more than a store—it’s a community hub. Located at 27 Stonehill Road in Oswego, Mixed Market Thrift offers gently used clothing, home goods, furniture, décor, and one-of-a-kind treasures that shoppers won’t find anywhere else. But what truly sets them apart is their focus on community impact, sustainability, and supporting local causes.A Thrift Store With a PurposeMixed Market Thrift is about reimagining the lifecycle of items. By giving clothing, décor, and furniture a second chance, the store promotes sustainable living while helping customers save money. Every piece is thoughtfully curated, creating a shopping experience that feels fresh, stylish, and inspiring.The name says it al, Mixed Market is a place where styles, generations, and stories mix. Whether you’re a vintage lover, a DIY upcycler, or simply a budget-minded shopper, the store has something for everyone.Supporting Local CausesOne of the things that makes Mixed Market Thrift special is their commitment to community giving. The shop frequently hosts fundraisers and partnerships with local nonprofits. For example, their recent collaboration with Rover Rescue included a drive-by meal fundraiser, showing how retail and community service can go hand in hand.By shopping at Mixed Market Thrift, customers are not only scoring unique finds, they’re also helping support local organizations that make a difference.A Creative Space for EntrepreneursMixed Market Thrift also supports local creators and small businesses by offering vendor opportunities and special event partnerships. By giving makers and entrepreneurs a platform, the store helps turn passions into profit and strengthens Oswego’s creative economy.What You’ll Find InsideMixed Market Thrift has built a reputation for high-quality secondhand finds and friendly service. Inside, shoppers can browse:Clothing & Accessories for all agesFurniture from modern to vintageHome Décor pieces with characterBooks, Collectibles & Curiosities you won’t see in big-box storesSeasonal & Holiday Items that keep each visit fresh and funWhy It MattersIn an era where fast fashion and mass production dominate, Mixed Market Thrift reminds us of the value of slowing down, repurposing, and investing in our community. Every purchase helps reduce waste, supports local causes, and strengthens Oswego’s small-business culture.Visit Mixed Market Thrift📍 27 Stonehill Rd, Oswego, IL🕒 Open [10a -4 Monday, Thursday,Friday, Saturday, 12-3 Sunday]🌐 Follow on Facebook/Instagram for new arrivals, sales, and community eventsFinal ThoughtsMixed Market Thrift is more than a thrift store, it’s a movement for sustainable living and community giving. Whether you’re looking for your next great find or want to support local causes, it’s a destination that brings Oswego together one treasure at a time.

Aurora, IL — Right in downtown Aurora at 37 W New York Street, a family-owned restaurant is bringing the rich, bold tastes of Bolivia to the heart of our city. Alice’s Corner Bolivian Cuisine isn’t just another spot to grab lunch—it’s a place where flavor, community, and culture meet.What Makes Alice’s Corner SpecialFamily & Authenticity: Alice’s Corner is locally owned and operated. Their Bolivian family roots shine through each dish, made from scratch with high-quality ingredients.Wide, Vibrant Menu: From empanadas and tamales, to steak sandwiches, yuca con queso, stuffed plantains, and quinoa salad, the menu offers both comfort and adventure. And don’t skip the desserts—flan and alfajores get rave reviews.Welcoming Atmosphere: Diners say the ambiance is cozy and inviting, it’s like walking into someone’s home with warm service, bilingual staff, and genuine friendliness.Why Alice’s Corner is Impactful for AuroraAlice’s Corner strengthens the cultural fabric of Aurora. Here’s how:Fills a Unique Culinary Niche: Bolivian food is rare in Illinois, especially authentically made homeland-style. Alice’s brings South American flavors that many locals haven’t had access to before.Supports Local Economy: As a small family-owned business, it contributes to downtown foot traffic, supports local jobs, and keeps money circulating locally.Community Building: For many customers, whether Latino/Hispanic or not—eating here is about more than food: it’s about connection, culture, and welcoming diversity in Aurora. Also, their online presence is strong: great reviews on Yelp, TripAdvisor, Google, and social media.Top Menu Highlights & What Locals LoveEmpanadas & Arepas with cheese or chicken—crispy, flavorful, and satisfying.Steak Sandwich / Steak Empanada — many mention these as stars.Passionfruit Lemonade / Agua de Maracuyá — refreshing & perfect side drink.Desserts like flan and alfajores—subtle, sweet, and loved by many.How to Experience Alice’s CornerVisit them in downtown Aurora: 37 W New York StreetHours: Open Monday–Saturday 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, closed Sundays.Can order online via their website; deals like free dessert or salad for online orders over certain amounts (check current promos).Final Thoughts: Why Aurora Should Celebrate Alice’s CornerAlice’s Corner embodies what a great local restaurant should be, it’s authentic, community-minded, and full of flavor. For Aurora residents, it’s a chance to explore new tastes, support family-run business, and build cultural diversity. If you haven’t been yet, this is your invite. Your taste buds and community will thank you.Want more? Check out menus, reviews, and photos here:Website: alicescorner.com TripAdvisor & Yelp for guest feedback.