A secular, college-prep microschool through grade 12

Prairie Paideia, NFP

A secular, diverse, college prep, alternative learning community focusing on critical thinking, collaboration, communication and creativity for students elementary through high school (full-time, part-time or hybrid). We emphasize critical thinking, communication and collaboration skills across all levels. We have three levels of mixed-aged small cohorts that allow for differentiation that ensures all students are stretched without being stressed. We are college-prep without college pressure. Students are placed by ability vs. age and we are low-tech, but not no-tech. Our students use real books and writing utensils. Bullying is not tolerated here and we have a longstanding community culture of respect and encouragement among students and adults. Classes are taught in an eclectic combination of styles that includes themed, project-based, Modeling Instruction drawn from various pedagogies. We offer Advanced Placement (many project-based) and dual-enrollment. Let's talk about how to change your child's trajectory.

DuPage County

Lisa Marie Farver

Chicago Metropolitan Area

Naperville

Illinois

A secular, diverse, college prep, alternative learning community focusing on critical thinking, collaboration, communication and creativity for...

Help for your IL & WI real estate & estate planning needs.

McCormick Law Firm LLC

Eron McCormick is the Principal Owner of The McCormick Law Firm, LLC, where he focuses on real estate law, estate planning, and business and transactional matters. Since founding his practice in 2014, Eron has built a reputation for helping clients navigate some of life’s most important decisions with clarity and confidence. Whether assisting with the purchase or sale of a home, structuring a business, or planning for the future, he takes a practical, client-centered approach that emphasizes clear communication and informed decision-making. Eron graduated cum laude from Western Michigan University Cooley Law School in 2014, where he served as an Associate Editor of the Journal of Clinical and Practical Law. He earned his undergraduate degree in Political Science from Northeastern Illinois University, with a minor in Communications. During his time there, he served as Student Government President, competed on the Model Illinois Government Moot Court Team, and was inducted into Pi Sigma Alpha, the National Political Science Honor Society. Licensed in Illinois since 2014 and Wisconsin since 2022, Eron also represents clients with cross-border real estate matters, particularly those selling and purchasing property in Wisconsin. He is admitted to practice before the Illinois Northern District Bankruptcy Court and is an active member of several professional organizations, including the Illinois State Bar Association, Wisconsin State Bar Association, Illinois Real Estate Lawyers Association, and DuPage County Bar Association. Eron and his team are committed to giving back to the community, offering discounts to first responders, veterans, and military families. He was recognized as an Elite Lawyer in 2025. Outside of his practice, Eron enjoys spending time in Wisconsin’s Northwoods and Lake Geneva with his family and dog Jasper, further strengthening his connection to the communities he serves.

DuPage

Winfield

Eron McCormick is the Principal Owner of The McCormick Law Firm, LLC, where he focuses on real estate law, estate planning, and business and...

Edward Jones

Throughout our lives, we take on various roles that help define who we are. In my case, I have had the privilege of serving as a financial advisor, author, marathoner, cancer survivor and caregiver. I have spent the past 25 years helping families achieve their financial goals. After graduating from Southern Illinois University with a Bachelor of Arts in political science, I joined Edward Jones in 1998. During my tenure, I served in many leadership positions within the firm. In 2018, I became a regional leader for the Chicago western suburbs, overseeing 58 branch teams serving thousands of families. I became a general partner with Edward Jones in 2020. I take a very personalized approach to financial advising. My branch team includes Joyce Marzo. We take the time to learn what is important to our clients and I tailor a strategy to help them achieve their goals. Together we are committed to providing our clients and business partners exceptional service. In my practice, I typically work with three generations of families, helping them navigate life's financial challenges. As a marathoner, I have completed multiple races, including the Chicago Marathon, and I have found that the discipline and focus required for long-distance running has helped me in other areas of my life. As a cancer survivor and caregiver, I have gained valuable insights into the challenges that life can throw our way. These experiences have taught me the importance of perseverance, empathy and proactive planning, and I bring these values to my work as a financial advisor. When I am not wearing my professional hat, I enjoy spending time with my family. I am married to Enrique, and together we have two children, Sofia and Andy. Our family also includes a lovable Great Pyrenees named Ellie. One of our favorite ways to unwind is by spending time at our family cabin in NW Wisconsin, where we can disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life and enjoy the beauty of nature.

Downers Grove

Throughout our lives, we take on various roles that help define who we are. In my case, I have had the privilege of serving as a financial advisor,...

Saturday, May 7th between the hours of 12:00PM and 4:00PM, visit Aurora Animal Control at 600 S River Street in Aurora for a fun festival, featuring FREE pet microchipping and spay/neuter certificates. Spay Illinois is a registered non-profit. Donation make our work possible. Visit <a href="http://www.spayillinois.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.spayillinois.org</a> to learn more.

Saturday, May 7th between the hours of 12:00PM and 4:00PM, visit Aurora Animal Control at 600 S River Street in Aurora for a fun festival, featuring FREE pet microchipping and spay/neuter certificates.

Spay Illinois is a registered non-profit. Donation make our work possible. Visit <a href="http://www.spayillinois.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.spayillinois.org</a> to learn more.

Lisle

All Aurora residents receive FREE microchips for cats and dogs at the HSA open house

Spay Illinois offering FREE microchips for pets in Aurora

Neighbor News

Woodridge

Wheaton

Glen Ellyn

David Giuliani

Darien

Will County

Andrea Earnest

Bolingbrook

Oak Brook

Hinsdale-Clarendon Hills

Burr Ridge

Helen Plum Library

Celebrate the centennial anniversary of the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/LombardGardenClub?__cft__%5b0%5d=AZbkCctULlFSUpJf6GKd7P3JjZm0_sAYAyJ5Qr-CqqFvGnmYCYOasw8A9PutDHQqx2-3RKJ8tjkA0btzOsdeGGT_aBEsDkFY00h3vBCTg-STpMT4Bn-RKWrsf9s6sWrbFEl3WrNb4CRxZrl4QOwfiuT5Z--pDstvPageCZJpaU-Nww&amp;__tn__=-%5dK-R" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">Lombard Garden Club</a> at the Helen Plum Library this month! Now on display on the 2nd Floor is an exhibit highlighting the Club's history and focus on learning, sharing knowledge, and beautifying the community. 
The Lombard Garden Club is known for its annual Lilac Sale and meetings on a variety of horticultural and conservation topics, to which Club members and the public are welcome. After 100 years, its roots of service, cooperation, and pride continue to grow.
See the display now through April 30; the Library is located at 411 S. Main Street in Lombard.

Local Event: Garden Club Celebrates 100 Years - See the Display Until 4/30

Garden Club Celebrates 100 Years - See the...

Celebrate the centennial anniversary of the Lombard Garden Club at the Helen Plum Library this month! Now on display on the 2nd...

Garden Club Celebrates 100 Years - See the Display Until 4/30

The Table of Grace Food Pantry

Join us at The Table of Grace Food Pantry at Second Baptist of Wheaton.&nbsp; &nbsp; Attendees are encouraged to register online through our website and are kindly requested to bring their own reusable shopping bags for their items.&nbsp; The Pantry is client choice and will be open from 10 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. at 1520 Avery Avenue, Wheaton, IL.&nbsp; Call 630-260-0190 if you have any questions.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Local Event: The Table of Grace Food Pantry

Join us at The Table of Grace Food Pantry at Second Baptist of Wheaton.    Attendees are encouraged to register online through...

Bricks & Minifigs Naperville

Calling all Star Wars LEGO&nbsp;fans to explore a massive selection of over 100 retired 'New in Box' and certified sets. Discover thousands of minifigures from across the galaxy at this must-attend event for collectors and builders alike. We buy, sell, trade and party all things LEGO! Book your&nbsp; next event like birthday parties or classes with us!&nbsp;

Local Event: Star Wars LEGO fans - May 2nd - Join Us On The Brick Side

Star Wars LEGO fans - May 2nd - Join Us On The...

Calling all Star Wars LEGO fans to explore a massive selection of over 100  retired 'New in Box' and certified sets. Discover...

Star Wars LEGO fans - May 2nd - Join Us On The Brick Side

Union Church of Hinsdale

<table><tbody><tr><td>TWO PERFORMANCES ONLY: MAY 1, 7:30 p.m. Studebaker Theater, Fine Arts Building, Chicago&nbsp; May 2, 3 p.m. Union Church of Hinsdale Enjoy a fabulous spring day filled with Mozart! Evren Ozel, a winner of the Van Cliburn International Piano Competition performs Mozart Piano Concerto No. 20 in D Minor, K466 with Camerata Chicago. Conducted by Maestro Drostan Hall, Camerata Chicago also plays Mozart’s Prague Symphony No. 38 in D Major, K504 and two Lyric Pieces by Grieg including “Evening in the Mountains”. Bring your friends &amp; family to this all ages concert. Use Code CCLG to receive 15% discount off your order online at CamerataChicago.org or call 312-799-0916 to get your tickets.</td></tr></tbody></table>

Local Event: CAMERATA CHICAGO & VAN CLIBURN WINNER EVREN OZEL perform MOZART Piano Concerto #20 in D Minor, K466

CAMERATA CHICAGO & VAN CLIBURN WINNER EVREN...

TWO PERFORMANCES ONLY:  MAY 1, 7:30 p.m. Studebaker Theater, Fine Arts Building, Chicago  May 2, 3 p.m. Union Church of...

CAMERATA CHICAGO & VAN CLIBURN WINNER EVREN OZEL perform MOZART Piano Concerto #20 in D Minor, K466

Benedictine University

The Steubenville Joliet Youth Conference Returns to Benedictine University, June 26–28, 2026
REGISTER BY MAY 5, 2026!
One of the nation’s most impactful Catholic youth gatherings, the Steubenville Joliet Youth Conference, will return to Benedictine University in Lisle, Illinois, from June 26–28, 2026. Hosted in partnership with the Diocese of Joliet, Franciscan University of Steubenville, and Partnership for Youth, the conference will welcome thousands of high school teens for a transformative weekend of worship, dynamic speakers, and sacramental encounters.
The Steubenville Youth Conferences—held at 19 locations across North America—exist to evangelize, equip, and empower young people to become joyful disciples of Christ. The Joliet conference is one of the region’s most anticipated summer faith events.
The Steubenville Conference Experience
Over the three‑day weekend, teens and their group leaders will participate in:
<ul>
 <li>Engaging keynote sessions</li>
 <li>Daily Mass</li>
 <li>Eucharistic Adoration with a full‑arena procession</li>
 <li>Men’s and women’s breakout sessions</li>
 <li>Opportunities for Confession throughout the weekend</li>
 <li>Small‑group discussions and fellowship</li>
 <li>Recharge time with games, rest, and community building</li>
</ul>
Meet the Ministry Team
This year’s conference will feature a nationally recognized lineup of Catholic speakers and ministers, including:
<ul>
 <li>Chris Stefanick – Host</li>
 <li>Fr. Leo Patalinghug – Priest</li>
 <li>Lauren Gothard – Speaker</li>
 <li>Lauren Wright – Speaker</li>
 <li>Jimmy Mitchell – Speaker</li>
 <li>Sonar Worship featuring, Aly Aleigha – Worship Team</li>
</ul>
Register today!
Registration, pricing details, and additional resources are available at:&nbsp;
<a href="https://partnershipforyouth.org/steubenville-joliet/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank">https://partnershipforyouth.org/steubenville-joliet/</a>
<span style="font-size:12.0pt;line-height:115%; font-family:'Aptos',sans-serif;mso-ascii-theme-font:minor-latin;mso-fareast-font-family: Aptos;mso-fareast-theme-font:minor-latin;mso-hansi-theme-font:minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family:'Times New Roman';mso-bidi-theme-font:minor-bidi; mso-ansi-language:EN-US;mso-fareast-language:EN-US;mso-bidi-language:AR-SA">Email:&nbsp;info@partnershipforyouth.org

Local Event: Register to Attend the Steubenville Joliet Youth Conference by May 5, 2026

Register to Attend the Steubenville Joliet...

The Steubenville Joliet Youth Conference Returns to Benedictine University, June 26–28, 2026
REGISTER BY MAY 5, 2026!
One of...

Register to Attend the Steubenville Joliet Youth Conference by May 5, 2026

🌸 Mother’s Day Brunch at Alpine Banquets – Reserve Before It’s Gone! 🌸
Don’t wait until it’s too late—Mother’s Day reservations are already filling quickly at Alpine Banquets! Treat Mom to a beautiful, stress-free celebration she truly deserves at one of Chicagoland’s favorite family-owned venues.
This is more than just brunch—it’s an experience. From the moment you walk in, you’ll be surrounded by elegant décor, a welcoming atmosphere, and a carefully curated menu designed to impress every guest at the table.
✨ Your Mother’s Day Experience Includes:
• Full brunch buffet with breakfast &amp; lunch favorites
• Fresh seafood station &amp; chef-inspired selections
• Sweets table filled with irresistible desserts
• Freshly brewed coffee &amp; tea service
• Open bar available
• Comfortable, elegant seating for your entire family
🕐 Limited Seating Times: 11:00 AM | 1:00 PM | 3:00 PM
⚠️ Important: &nbsp;Time slots sell out every year.
Make this the year you celebrate Mom the right way—no cooking, no stress, just quality time and a beautiful experience she’ll remember.
📞 Call NOW to reserve your table before all seatings are fully booked. 630-964-4154
Walk-ins will NOT be accepted.
📍 Alpine Banquets | Chicagoland Area
📅 Mother’s Day
💐 Your table is waiting… but not for long.

Local Event: Mother’s day Brunch ♥️

Mother’s day Brunch ♥️

🌸 Mother’s Day Brunch at Alpine Banquets – Reserve Before It’s Gone! 🌸
Don’t wait until it’s too late—Mother’s Day reservations...

HUGE TOOL SALE, Saturday, May 2; 8:00 am to noon. 6751 Powell Street, Downers Grove. Festool, Jobsite Saw Pro with mobile cart, tons of hand tools, and more!

HUGE Tool Sale

HUGE TOOL SALE, Saturday, May 2; 8:00 am to noon.  6751 Powell Street, Downers Grove.  Festool, Jobsite Saw Pro with mobile cart, tons of hand...

Food Truck Social Nights To Return To Downtown...

This marks the second year in a row for the Food Truck Socials, which debuted in 2025. 

Food Truck Social Nights To Return To Downtown Lisle

Community Corner

McHenry County

Crystal Lake-Cary

New Tornado Alley?: IL Tops Nation in Twister...

Illinois has recorded 111 tornado reports so far in 2026, more than double the next-highest state, according to AccuWeather data. 

New Tornado Alley?: IL Tops Nation in Twister Reports In 2026

Weather

🌱 Patch AM: Spring Branch Pickup Underway In...

Spotted on the Lisle calendar: Garden Club Celebrates 100 Years - See the Display Until 4/30

🌱 Patch AM: Spring Branch Pickup Underway In Lisle: What To Know

Spring Branch Pickup Underway In Lisle: What To...

Spring branch pickup resumed for the season on Monday in Lisle. 

Spring Branch Pickup Underway In Lisle: What To Know

Home & Garden

🌱 Patch AM: How does Lisle’s pension tax burden...

You won’t want to miss Garden Club Celebrates 100 Years - See the Display Until 4/30 on the Lisle Patch calendar

Nearby Communities

State Edition

National Edition