WELCOME HOME TO CHESTNUT SQUARE AT THE GLEN

When Simon Dymanus joined the maintenance team at Chestnut Square at The Glen, he never imagined he’d be reunited with someone who played a pivotal role in his life two decades earlier. But fate has a way of working its magic—and in this case, it brought him face-to-face with Karen Newman, his former ESL teacher from Maine East High School. Simon arrived in the United States from Poland in 2004, just as he was beginning high school. With limited English skills and a new culture to navigate, he found a great mentor in Karen, known then as “Ms. Newman,” who taught ESL and math at Maine East for 15 years. “Simon was friendly and polite to everyone he encountered,” Karen recalls. “He was also a very respectful student and made an impression on me as a quick learner.” After graduating, Simon spent many years self-employed in the maintenance and construction industries before joining the Chestnut Square team in 2025. One day, while walking down a hallway in the community, he spotted a familiar face and exclaimed, “Ms. Newman!” Karen turned around, surprised and delighted. “It was such a joyful moment,” she says. “Simon is the same pleasant and thoughtful man he was when I first met him, and he does a wonderful job at Chestnut Square. It makes me proud to see a former student being such a good person who enjoys helping people.” Simon shares that sentiment. “I’ve always loved fixing things, and being able to brighten the day of our residents makes me happy,” he says. “Reconnecting with Ms. Newman after 20 years was totally unexpected, and I’m pleased to see that she’s doing so well in the community.” Karen’s journey to Chestnut Square began in Seoul, South Korea, where she was born into a family that valued education—her father a musician and orchestra conductor, her mother a physician turned high school principal. Karen herself worked in various roles in the education field in South Korea before moving to the United States. She lived in Buffalo Grove, Palatine, and Prospect Heights before deciding it was time for a new chapter. After hearing positive feedback from a friend, Karen toured Chestnut Square and immediately felt at ease. In March 2024, she moved into a 1-BR floor plan with a lovely view of the community’s planter garden. “I was quickly accepted and felt right at home,” she says. “I’ve made many new friends, and I’m honored to be a resident here.” Karen has rekindled her enthusiasm for art at the community’s watercolor classes, which she attends regularly. “Watercolor painting is very rewarding,” she says. “It’s a peaceful and expressive outlet that I look forward to.” She also enjoys the on-site concerts, discussion groups, and camaraderie of shared meals. “The dining program is a perfect balance,” she says. “I have everything I need in my apartment, but I love the convenience and social aspect of dining with my neighbors.” Karen and Simon’s story is a beautiful reminder of how life can come full circle—and how Chestnut Square continues to be a place where meaningful connections flourish. To learn more about Chestnut Square or to schedule a personal tour, please contact Katie Andriotis at 847-904 5102 or kandriotis@bethanynorth.org

We’re excited to announce that we’ve been named a 2025 Top Workplace by the Chicago Tribune! This award celebrates organizations that foster a positive, engaging, and supportive work environment. We believe that an exceptional senior living experience is made possible by a dedicated team united in their passion for serving others. The award was based on a comprehensive and confidential employee survey conducted by an independent third party. “We are deeply honored by this recognition and what it represents,” said Vera Lampe, CEO. “I’m filled with gratitude for our extraordinary staff, our board of directors, and the residents and families whom we have the privilege to serve every day.” The findings affirm that Chestnut Square is more than a senior living community—it is a place defined by compassion, respect, and genuine connection. Team members take pride in their work, and their commitment is evident in the care and support they provide daily. Here are a few highlights from what our team shared: “I love that our community brings real happiness and peace of mind to our residents and families.” “This is more than just a job—it’s a place where I know I make a difference every day.” “This organization genuinely values resident dignity and compassionate care. It’s not just something we talk about—it’s something you feel in the way people interact, the support staff are given, and the effort that goes into making sure residents are truly seen and respected.”