Mold Remediation in Naperville, IL

What if I told you the family who went viral in 2023 for their Taylor Swift themed Christmas house is back? And they have outdone themselves.

Amy and Brian Scott have been scheming like criminals for four fortnights to set up their Swiftmas house in Naperville, Illinois. In October, the couple went on a date night to a nearby restaurant and jotted down notes to incorporate three of Swift's eras — "Reputation," "Folklore" and "The Tortured Poets Department" — into their lights display. Among the ideas were a quaint "Folklore" cottage, an oversized "Tortured Poets" typewriter, a "Look What You Made Me Do" vitrine and a tuxedo-clad Travis Kelce.

"We started with writing a mission statement together," Amy says pointing to the 20-foot mesh banners displaying the singer-songwriter smiling and holding her hands in a signature heart pose. Above Swift's hands is the phrase, "Spread love and joy this holiday season."

"We took notes as we ate dinner and our brains were overflowing with ideas," she adds.

The ideas fell into Swift's sixth, eighth and 11th eras. In the "Folklore" section, a moss-adorned cottage replicates the set piece on the singer's Eras Tour. The wood came from a neighbor's bed frame left on the side of the road. A chandelier donated by another neighbor hangs inside to light up a stool and cardigan. At the foot of the cottage are mushrooms and disco balls. Brian owns a printing business so he designs a lot of the quotes and placards scattered throughout. In the "Folklore" area is a sign shaped like a seven (one of the album's tracks) that reads, "Love you to the moon and to Saturn," and another that makes an "Invisible String" lyric present-tense: "One single thread of gold ties me to you."

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In the "Tortured Poets" section is a six-foot cardboard cutout of Swift in her signature Vivienne Westwood white dress with Louboutin heels. Along the bottom, the Scotts glued red glitter. A typewriter, similar to one in the singer's "Fortnight" video" stands main stage. Each key is made of pickle jar lids. The message in serif script reads, "May you have a holiday season filled with joy, peace, and love."

Perfect Christmas gift for Swifties:Celebrate Taylor Swift's unprecedented Eras Tour with USA TODAY's enchanting book

"When she released 'Tortured Poets,' I think it was such an album to show the world that she's human and she has real emotions and that it's OK to not be OK," Amy says. "And what a strong message that is to anyone having a struggle in their life."

On the far left is the "Reputation" era with a glass case highlighting a silhouette of Swift in her shiny red-and-black concert catsuit and a red rotary phone. A cardboard sign of a Jaguar E-Type has an Illinois license plate that reads "GETAWAY," a nod to the album's Track 9. A pair of shimmery red lips is next to the words "You're So Gorgeous" on another sign.

Icicle and snowflake lights dazzle across the rooftop where visitors will see a cutout of Travis Kelce holding a light-up "Taylor's Version" sign. He's dressed in the three-piece outfit he wore on June 23 in Wembley Stadium.

One of the Scotts' daughters, Emily, dreams of Swift seeing the photos or videos of the enchanting setup. "I would hope that she would be in awe and love that we're doing this," she says.

Going viral in 2023

Last year, the Naperville house highlighted four of the singer's other eras: "Red," "Speak Now," "1989" and "Evermore." The festive display spread like a diesel-desire burning fire across social media with fans flocking to the suburban house in the bedazzled droves. Even Google Maps changed the family's address to the "Swiftmas House."

"We didn't know the whole world was gonna see it," Brian says joking that they would have put more time and effort into the already impressive display. "People would come and stay for hours and sing songs. There was a lot of camaraderie and the passing of friendship bracelets. That's really what we want."

More:And you thought you were a fan? Peep this family's Swiftie-themed Christmas decor

The front yard is riddled with QR codes taking visitors to a fundraiser for Little Friends, an organization that provides services for loved ones with autism or developmental disabilities.

The display will be up through the end of the year. When asked if they're going to continue the Swift-inspired tradition, the family says probably not.

"I think this might be it," says daughter Becca Scott.

Don't miss any Taylor Swift news; sign up for the free, weekly newsletter This Swift Beat.

Follow Bryan West, the USA TODAY Network's Taylor Swift reporter, on Instagram, TikTok and X as @BryanWestTV.

This article features real customers paid to share their actual experiences. This article contains general information and is not intended to provide information that is specific to American Express, or its products and services. Similar products and services offered by different companies will have different features and you should always read about product details before acquiring any financial product.

Growing up in Minnesota in a family with very little means, I was always looking for something to do. But I was awful at sports. I tried baseball but walked every time, never really played. It wasn’t until eighth grade when I found my stride (so to speak) with running. I tried cross country and track – it was so amazing to finally find something I was good at, especially when I hadn’t found many of those things up to that point.

There was this incredible running store in my town and I’d hang out there all the time, nerding out on all things running. By the time I was a junior in high school, my mom was bugging me to get a job. I mean, those running shoes were expensive. I was in that store when I got a call to come in for an interview at a fast food restaurant. The owner of the running store asked me right then and there if I wanted to work for him instead. I was dumbfounded. I’d never even thought to apply, but I jumped at the opportunity.

Working there was very transformative for me – I ended up working at that shop through high school, college, graduate school, and even after graduate school. I got my master’s degree in biomechanics and footwear because of how much I love shoes and tech.

After graduation, my wife and I eventually ended up in Naperville, Illinois. I'd tell people that when I retired from my job at a national footwear chain I was going to open a running store – but a friend told me about a building that was opening in downtown Naperville. It was only 2000 – I wasn't retired yet. I was terrified, but I went for it.

My wife and I spent our entire life savings starting that shop while I kept my day job.

A Supportive Community

Naperville Running Company officially opened its doors in 2000. This community has been amazing to us and we love it here. We’ve been able to expand and add more stores and the community has supported us every step of the way. It truly is a dream come true.

When I first heard of Small Business Saturday®, I thought: Wow, this is interesting. A big corporation going to all of this trouble to promote small businesses. It was a no-brainer to get involved right away.

Small businesses are smart to participate in Small Business Saturday. Just sign up and use your social media and be proud." —Kris Hartner, owner and founder, Naperville Running Company

From day one, we have been all word-of mouth, never spending money on paid advertising or marketing. Community and connection are the ethos of our business.

Today we have four locations across Naperville and in nearby Wheaton, Illinois. Marisa was there when we opened our second location.

Marisa Hird, director of culture, apparel buyer, director of marketing: I joined Naperville Running Company in 2012 after having been a customer since day one; I’m born and raised in Naperville and I first became a customer when I started running in high school.

In 2014 we opened our second location about eight miles south of downtown Naperville. Kris really trusted me and the other staff members to make it work. Then, in 2017, we opened our third location in Wheaton, and in 2019, we opened our annex, which hosts pop-up sales for different running brands. Kris has always created opportunities for his people. He really takes care of us and his customers.

Stopping By on Small Business Saturday

During the first few years of Small Business Saturday, I remember ordering doormats and bags and other materials from American Express. We received so much stuff. Everyone loved the concept. Soon, the local small-business interest organization in Naperville got involved and encouraged small businesses in downtown Naperville to put a plaid bow on their front door or window to indicate their participation in Small Business Saturday.

In 2017, we started doing fun runs to celebrate the holiday. Our most recent was the ‘Flannel + Flapjacks Fun Run.’ Like in previous years, it started at 8:30am on Saturday morning. We encouraged people to show up wearing flannel for a very casual (not timed) two-to-three-mile run along the downtown Naperville Riverwalk. You could bring your dog or your stroller, or you could walk. It was free to participate, and after the run, everyone came to the store for coffee and doughnuts.

We promote the fun runs on social media and through our bi-weekly newsletter, which goes out to 30,000 opted-in current and former customers. People get so excited to stop by. It’s a really fun day.

Connecting With Customers

For our social media marketing around Small Business Saturday, we really focus on people and connection. We know that you can buy online almost anything in our store. Connections keep people coming back. On our social media you see a lot more people than products; it helps people feel connected to our store, our message.

I recommend small-business owners look at #ShopSmall, the Shop Small® hashtag. Whenever I’m putting together a social media post, I am always astounded at how many people are using that hashtag. It really helps keep it top of mind.

I think it’s important to talk about shopping small year around; it isn’t just a fancy marketing tagline. Some people don’t know how important it is to keep money in their communities. Talk about it frequently with them, post about it on social media.

One idea is to simply make a ‘Shop Small Business Saturday’ sign – even on a piece of paper – and have your employees hold it up. Take a photo of them outside your store or your restaurant on your smartphone and post it to social media. This can be a vital piece of education for your potential customers. Let them know how they can support you. It can be hugely impactful.

Hartner: Small businesses are smart to participate in Small Business Saturday. Just sign up and use your social media and be proud. I think some people need a reminder to Shop Small, and it’s wonderful that American Express reminds them to do so. It’s very cool to tag onto something like that.

The timing is also ideal. A lot of people are home for the holiday so it’s already a really good week for foot traffic, but that Saturday feels extra special.

Want to learn more about how to encourage your customers to Shop Small on Small Business Saturday? Visit the Small Business Saturday Resource Hub for marketing materials and business insights that can help you engage with your customers and find new ones. You can also read stories from 15 small businesses that have seen success on Small Business Saturday and beyond.

As told to Katie Morell, American Express Business Class freelance contributor

Photos: Josh Dalsimer

The material made available for you on this website is for informational purposes only and is not intended to provide legal, tax or financial advice. If you have questions, please consult your own professional legal, tax and financial advisors.

GREENSBORO, N.C.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The Fresh Market, renowned for its commitment to high-quality, fresh foods and an exceptional shopping experience, is thrilled to announce the grand opening of its newest location in Naperville, Illinois, making it the 164^th store for the fresh-food, specialty retailer.

“With our wide range of fresh, local, and high-quality products, combined with our inviting atmosphere, we aim to create a shopping destination that the community will love.”

The doors to this 24,000 sq ft new Naperville location opened this morning promising to provide residents with an unparalleled shopping environment that features an extensive selection of local, organic, and specialty items.

The celebration kicked off with a bread-breaking ceremony at 7:45 am, marking the start of this exciting new chapter for The Fresh Market in Naperville. The first 500 guests through the doors received special gift bags, adding an extra reason for guests to visit early and enjoy the offerings at this new location.

"We are excited to bring The Fresh Market experience to Naperville," said Jason Potter, CEO of The Fresh Market. "With our wide range of fresh, local, and high-quality products, combined with our inviting atmosphere, we aim to create a shopping destination that the community will love."

Guests will discover everything needed to craft delightful meals and elevated culinary experiences. Recently recognized by USA Today's 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards 2024 for award-winning bakery, deli, and prepared foods, Naperville guests are guaranteed a premier fresh food destination.

In addition to offering expertly curated products, ready-to-eat restaurant selections are available such as in-house smoked pit BBQ featuring fresh brisket, ribs and pork. Also offered is Hot and Fresh Pizza made with artisanal crust, sauce comprised of Italian-grown crushed tomatoes and salt and topped with BelGioioso mozzarella cheese.

The Fresh Market supports local foodbanks in their mission to eliminate food insecurity in the communities they serve. Today at the grand opening, members of The Fresh Market leadership team presented representatives from Northern Illinois Food Bank with a check for $2,000.

The new store is open seven days a week, with operating hours from 7am to 9pm. Guests can also shop online and enjoy curbside pickup or home delivery through The Fresh Market's website or mobile app.* The store will be offering special deals and promotions throughout the coming weeks in celebration of the grand opening. An array of platter and catering options, such as complete Thanksgiving and Holiday meals, are available by ordering ahead through the website.

About The Fresh Market, Inc.

Voted as the “Best Grocery Store in America” by USA Today’s 10 Best Readers’ Choice Awards in 2023, 2022 and 2021, “America’s Best Customer Service 2021” by Newsweek and Statista and a top 5 most trusted grocery retail brand for specialty and natural/organic foods in the 2022 BrandSpark Most Trusted Awards, The Fresh Market helps guests discover the best with time-saving meal solutions, unique ingredients, and delicious food for any occasion. From fresh produce and exceptional meat and seafood to signature baked goods and thousands of organic options, the specialty grocer has something to please every palate. The Fresh Market currently operates 164 stores in 22 states across the U.S., inspiring guests to discover new flavors and cook with confidence. For more information, please visit www.thefreshmarket.com or follow the company on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok and Pinterest.

*Apple and the Apple Logo are registered trademarks of Apple Inc. Google Play and the Google Play logo are trademarks of Google LLC.

See which restaurants in the Naperville area will be open for Thanksgiving 2024.

Lisa Marie Farver, Patch Staff

|Updated Thu, Nov 21, 2024 at 4:26 pm CT

NAPERVILLE, IL — For people who don’t want the hassle of cooking or cleaning up after a big turkey dinner, several restaurants in Naperville are open on Thanksgiving Day, which is on Nov. 28 this year.

Among Naperville-area restaurants taking reservations on Thanksgiving Day are:

Several national chain restaurants with a presence in Illinois will also be open on Thanksgiving Day, according to lists curated by delish, Good Housekeeping and USA Today. They offer a range of dining experiences, from fine dining to fast casual to fast food. In some cases, you’ll need to make a reservation, so plan ahead as much as possible.

As always, Patch encourages you to call any restaurant on this list in advance to double-check hours on Thanksgiving Day, as many vary by location.

Applebee’s: Hours and participation varies by location.

Find out what's happening in Napervillewith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Black Angus Steakhouse: Restaurants will be open from 11 a.m.-9 p.m. with a limited menu that includes a turkey dinner.

Bob Evans: Most stores will be open for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Bravo! Italian Kitchen: Restaurants are open regular hours and will serve a traditional Thanksgiving dinner along with an ala carte menu with Italian favorites. Order-ahead options are also available.

Brio Italian Grille: Restaurants will be open from 10:30 a.m.-8 p.m.

Buffalo Wild Wings: Hours may vary by location.

Burger King: Hours may vary by location.

Chart House: Three-course meal options on the restaurant’s Thanksgiving menu include a turkey dinner with mashed potatoes, stuffing and all the trimmings. Order-ahead options are available.

Cracker Barrel: The restaurant will be open during normal hours, with a limited Thanksgiving menu starting at 11 a.m. Order-ahead options are available.

Del Frisco’s Grille: Most locations will be open from 12 p.m.-9 p.m. In the past, the restaurant has offered a three-course turkey dinner. Order-ahead options are available.

Domino’s Pizza: Stores aren’t required to, but some individual locations may choose to be open on Thanksgiving.

Denny’s: The restaurant will be open during regular hours.

Eddie V’s: The prime seafood restaurant will be open from 11 a.m.-9 p.m. In the past, the restaurant has had a special Thanksgiving menu with turkey and pumpkin pie.

Firehouse Subs: Hours may vary by location.

Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse and Wine Bar: Restaurants are open from 11 a.m.-8 p.m.

Fogo de Chão: Restaurants will be open from 11 a.m.-9 p.m.

Golden Corral: The buffet will offer all-you-can-eat fresh carved turkey and other Thanksgiving fare.

Hooters: Hours may vary by location.

IHOP: Hours may vary by location.

Maggiano’s Little Italy: The restaurant will be open during regular hours for dine-in and carryout, but also offers catering options.

McCormick and Schmick’s: In addition to its regular dinner menu, the restaurant will offer a traditional turkey dinner. Order-ahead options are available.

McDonald’s: Hours may vary by location.

Morton’s the Steakhouse: The restaurant is offering a four-course Thanksgiving meal for dine-in guests, as well as order-ahead and catering options.

Popeyes: Hours may vary by location.

Red Lobster: Hours may vary by location.

Ruth’s Chris Steak House: Reservations are strongly encouraged as the restaurant observes extended hours on Thanksgiving. Guests can choose a multi-course Thanksgiving dinner or order from the steak menu. A complete Thanksgiving meal or sides can be pre-ordered.

Seasons 52: The restaurant will be open regular hours and offers a traditional Thanksgiving meal for dine-in or pre-order.

Sizzler: Most locations will be open and will serve a traditional turkey dinner.

Sonic: Many, but not all, locations will be open.

Steak ’N Shake: Stores are open regular hours.

STK Steakhouse: The special Thanksgiving dine-in menu showcases seasonal flavors, including turkey alongside signature steaks, sides and desserts. Pre-order take-out options are available.

Subway: The chain’s locations are individually owned, so you’ll need to call ahead.

Sullivan’s Steakhouse: Restaurants will be open from 11 a.m.-8 p.m., and will serve a traditional three-course Thanksgiving dinner as well as its signature items. Pre-order options are available.

Taco Bell: Hours may vary by location.

TGI Fridays: Hours may vary by location.

Waffle House: Restaurants are open regular hours, as they are every other day of the year.

Wendy’s: Most locations are open regular hours.

Whataburger: Most locations are open regular hours.

White Castle: Stores will be open until 3 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day.

Friday

Aluminum Can Recycling / 7AM to 10PM at Knights of Columbus Hall – 615 East Ogden Ave. Naperville, IL 60563 / Drop off your aluminum cans to raise funds for charitable organizations supported by the Knights of Columbus.

Brats at Kreger’s / 10AM to 3PM Fridays and Saturdays at Kreger’s Brat and Sausage Haus – 606 N. Ellsworth Naperville, IL 60563 / Stop by for lunch, conversation and camaraderie. While Bob grills, let Bill know that you know his wurst is the best, especially for weekend grilling this Oktoberfest season and plans for upcoming get-togethers.

Early Voting Continues thru Election Day / Early voting for both DuPage and Will counties is now available through Nov. 4 at the Naperville Municipal Center, 400 S. Eagle Street. Enter through the main lobby and head downstairs for DuPage County voting. Head toward the City Clerk’s area on the main level for Will County. (Note: Lower level doors are not accessible for entry. Enter only from the front entrance by the fountain.) For all hours and other locations to vote, visit www.naperville.il.us/government/voting-and-voter-registration/. REMEMBER! Polls are open from 6AM to 7PM on General Election Day, Tues., Nov. 5.

Saturday

Reserve a Table at Mesón Sabika / 11:30AM to 9PM – Almost Any Day / Find a choice in dining rooms and private spaces at Mesón Sabika to sample Spanish tapas and delicious sangria for lunch and dinner every day. Located just west of downtown Naperville at 1025 Aurora Avenue, Mesón Sabika has been serving the community since 1990. Built in 1847, the historic mansion with eight air-conditioned dining rooms is set in a beautifully landscaped four-acre estate, providing a welcoming sight with plenty of parking for lunch, dinner, special events, benefits, weddings, meetings and family gatherings throughout the year.

Naperville Municipal Band Fall Concert / 3PM / Naperville Municipal Band will perform “Our Country” beginning at 3PM Sat., Nov. 2, on stage at the Wentz Concert Hall in the North Central College Fine and Performing Arts Center, Chicago Avenue at Ellsworth, just steps from downtown Naperville. All four indoor seasonal concerts are free of charge and open to the public. Consider dinner after the show!

Naperville Marines host annual Marine Corps Birthday Ball / 5PM / The Naperville Marines again will celebrate from 5PM to 11:30PM Sat., Nov. 2, at the Marriott in Naperville. This ball typically is sold out more than a week in advance. The Marriott in Naperville is located at 1801 N. Naper Blvd.

Naperville Annual Diwali Party / 7 to 11PM at Absolute BBQ – Restaurant 5019 Ace Lane, Unit 103 Naperville, IL 60564 / Celebrate the Festival of Lights surrounded by friends and family in a vibrant atmosphere that promises endless fun. The Naperville Annual Diwali Party features a DJ, live singing, karaoke, a dance floor, music, and a lavish buffet. More info at www.holymission.org.

Enjoy Every Day at Quigley’s Irish Pub / Quigley’s Irish Pub is located at 43 E. Jefferson Ave in downtown Naperville / Quigley’s Irish Pub features live music Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. The pub also offers a variety of spaces for all types of special events and fundraisers. Meanwhile, stop by for honest pub fare and a cold pint in the cool pub EDAQ, Every Day at Quigley’s. Patio is open for lunch, dinner and beverages, weather permitting. (Alert! WSI Quiz Night again is set for 7PM Tues., Nov 19. Compete in teams of up to eight individuals for fun and silly prizes! Also, save the date and BYO camera for Santa’s return to visit with families from 11AM to 2PM Sun., Dec. 1.)

Sunday

Time to Turn the Clocks Back / 2AM / Before retiring for the night, be sure clocks reflect the time change an hour earlier. Daylight Saving Time ends at 2AM on the first Sunday in November. Shorter daylight hours have been noticeable in recent weeks, providing vibrant sunsets and more opportunities for stargazing before bedtime.

Rumba Sunday Brunch at AltaVida / 10AM to 3PM / Housed in a 10,000 square-foot, multilevel complex at 16 W. Jefferson Ave., AltaVida features three distinctive floors, unveiling the sights, sounds, and tastes of sensational cultural expression with inspired music, food and drink of Barcelona, Havana, Old San Juan, Guadalajara, Buenos Aires, and Rio de Janeiro. AltaVida is open daily.

Century Walk Tours Every Day / Around the Clock – Daylight / The recently published 88-page Naperville Century Walk Public Art Guide to more than 50 locations featuring local stories with public art by renowned artists is now available at the Naperville Art League Gallery, Naper Settlement, Hotel Indigo and the Naperville Municipal Center. Pick up a free copy today. Then take a self-guided free-winding tour throughout downtown. NOTE! This month, the community is invited to participate in a brief survey hosted by the City to help determine the future of public art in Naperville. Whatever your interest, all feedback is valued and appreciated to help determine public art preferences, desired locations and types of art, all of which come with a cost. The survey will close at 4PM on Thurs., Oct. 31. To access the survey, visit bit.ly/naperville-art-survey. Thank you.

Looking for additional events and so on?

Check PN’s recently updated event link to find more concerts, entertainment and local happenings. Plus, event planners can post upcoming things to do. Find the “EVENTS” link available 24-7 on the navigation bar.

Every day… Dine Naperville!

Did you know? Downtown Naperville features plenty of other things to do all month. Take a stroll to discover all that’s new and coming soon while the final touches to the new streetscape take shape.

Of course, it’s never too early to mark your calendar for the downtown Naperville parade with all the bright ideas about the community when Santa comes to town. The annual Parade of Lights is set to begin at 7PM Fri., Nov. 29.

Every day… Visit Naperville!

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An ombudsman is Scandinavian in origin dating back to Viking times; and refers to a community representative; usually acting independently on behalf of an organization, body of elected officials, or civic group. Thanks Scandinavia for inventing ombudsman.