Glancer Magazine, February 2021 : simplebooklet.com

THE LOVE ISSUE West Suburban Families Share their Unique Love Story This month it’s all about LOVE. Families throughout the west suburban community have been together more this past year due to the pandemic– enjoying quality time at home while creating new memories. This issue shares Love Stories shared by local families, along with more inspiring features to help celebrate LOVE all month long. Our cover feature highlights west suburban Family Love Stories–each with a unique story to share. From vow renewal and adoption, to marying a second time around, becoming a blending family filled with love, each story is so very touching and filled with love, reminding us just how important family can be. We also feature 7 Spectacular Valentine’s Day Gifts to Fall In Love With, giving you a variety of fun and unique gift-giving options all found locally. So many fun finds! For the bride and grooms-to-be, you will for sure love 10 Trends for Saying ‘I Do’ Locally. Each featured trend will help make your planning blissful, ensuring your special day if everything you dreamed for it to be. Thank you for reading this special Valentine’s Day issue dedicated to all things LOVE! Our team always enjoys putting this issue together year after year, and it is so loved by our readers. Enjoy! We have many unique issues planned fro 2021 so please be sure to support our mission and subscribe today or advertise your business with us. We love local! We know local! Lindy Kleivo Publishing Director, West Suburban Area Pictured at Aurelio’s In Geneva with Her YoungestFEBRUARY 20215 Hello From Glancer Magazine 9 5 Things to Do 10 COVER Family Love Stories 20 10 Trends In Saying ‘I Do’ Locally 22 GUIDE Eat, Drink & Be Mine 28 Dining & Cocktails 30 Trendy Traveler: Mexico Resorts 32 Fitness with the H4 Training Team 34 Unique In Suburbia: Marcel’s 36 Million Dollar Listing: Wheaton 38 Home Design & Decor 39 Meet the Design Team at Nona Jo’s 40 Literary Local: Sharon Doering 41 Selling English Rows Naperville 42 To Give, To Inspire: Hearts of Fox Valley 45 Glancing the Gallant: Brave Local Mom 46 Kid Stuff: February Fun In 2021 48 Dental News 49 Healthy Living 52 Shop Local 53 Mom’s Little Black Book: DeSarge Dance 54 Shopping + Style: Boutiques 56 FREE GIFT Jeans & a Cute Top Shop 61 7 Spectacular Valentine’s Day Gifts Follow Us In Social Media and Share this Month’sCaptivating FeaturesTABLE OF CONTENTST E A M G L A N C E R PUBLISHER Glancer Magazine, Inc. PUBLISHING DIRECTOR Lindy Kleivo EDITORIAL | Print + Digital Kristen Kucharski Columnist / Writer Mindy Kyle Columnist / Writer Brianna Bartemeyer Features Writer SALES / MARKETING Lindy Kleivo Publishing Director PHOTOGRAPHY Mike Catuara Features Photographer P U B L I C A T I O N S GLANCER MAGAZINE A West Suburban Chicago Lifestyle Magazine Featuring the Best of West Suburban Chicago for Communities In DuPage, Kane & Kendall GLANCERMAGAZINE.COM A Hyper-Local Daily Features Site Highlighting On Trend Stories for Communities In DuPage, Kane & Kendall GLANCER GO-TO GUIDE Highlighting Local On Trend Events + Deals for For Communities In DuPage, Kane & Kendall C O N T A C T U S EDITORIAL Press Releases, Local Events, Community News editorial@glancermagazine.com ADVERTISING Digital Advertising + Local Marketing Solutions advertising@glancermagazine.com SUBSCRIPTIONS Monthly Download + Daily Digital www.glancermagazine.comGlancer Magazine, highlighting the best of DuPage, Kane & Kendall Counties, is produced by Glancer Magazine, Inc. Glancer Magazine, GlancerMagazine.com. You’ve Been Glanced and the Glancer logo are registered trademarks of Glancer Mag-azine, Inc. All rights reserved. Magazine re-production in whole or in part is strictly prohibited. FEBRUARY 2021 | Vol 19 The Love Issue This month it’s all about LOVE. Families throughout the west suburban community have been able to spend more time to-gether this past year– enjoying quality time while creating new memories. This issue shares Love Stories shared by local fam-ilies, along with more inspiring features to help celebrate LOVE all month long. Sub-scribe today for daily, weeky and monthly updates at www.GlancerMagazine.com ©Copyright 2021 All Rights Reserved Glancer Magazine, Inc. Glancer Magazine • FEBRUARY 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 5FFEEBBRRUUAARRYY 22002211

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1. Treat Yourself to Bundtinis® from Nothing Bundt Cakes WEST SUBURBS–OK. How sweet are these? TReat yourself or someone special to a dozen Bundtinis®, small bite-size cakes available at Nothing Bundt Cakes. Located in Geneva, Nap-erville, Plainfield, Wheaton, Elmhurst, Darien and Algonquin. Order online! www.nothingbundtcakes.comFEBRUARY 20215 Things to Do3. Give the Gift of Roses from Andrew’s Garden WHEATON–A Bit of European Floral Lux-ury. Andrew's Garden is a full-service Eu-ropean-style flower and gift shop offering local and national deliveries. Andrew's Gar-den specializes in couture designs for every day occasions, weddings, corporate events and other celebrations. Located in Wheaton with a second location opening ind downtown Naperville very soon. www.andrewsgarden.com5. St. Charles Restaurant Week February 22-26 ST. CHARLES –Showcaseing many restaurants throughout town, don’t miss this special community event in Kane County! View participating res-taurant menus and specials at www.stcalliance.org/restaurantweek Check back often as organizers will continue to update the list. Glancer Magazine • FEBRUARY 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 94. Valentine's Night Hike Lyman Woods • Saturday, February 13 • 7pm DOWNERS GROVE–Enjoy an evening under the stars on a romantic night hike. Follow a lantern-lit trail to find special surprises and make memories along the way. End the evening with roasted marshmallows and other tasty treats with your sweetheart around a cozy campfire. Snowshoes available if there is enough snow on the ground. Price is per couple. Register online at www.bit.ly/39U5Pct2. Make Valentine Ravioli Together ♥ From the Dough to the Plating • $34.99 Friday, February 12 • 5-7:30pm ONLINE EVENT • This year, give the gift of mak-ing dinner together. Make heart shaped, filled col-ored Ravioli from scratch. This is an interactive class seasoned with AlDente’s authentic Italian ac-cent! The price is for 1 person. After your booking send them an email and theye will send you back the list of ingredients. HURRY! Space is limited for this online class. aldente.pastaworkshop@gmail.com

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Glancer Magazine • FEBRUARY 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 13NAPERVILLE–When Kristen was maid of honor at one her closet friend’s wedding and Bruce was the best man, they felt it and married five years later at Sacred Heart Church in New York followed by a honeymoon in the Caribbean. Fast forward another 25 years, the couple decided to renew their wedding vows in Monroe, New York at St. Anastasia Church, followed by a romantic COVID-19 getaway at the Sky Top Lodge in Pennsylvania. They were thrilled to share this celebration with her mother, their children, and other relatives present; after all their parents were their guiding light with 50 years of marriage each. Kristen, an Honors Math and Project Idea teacher at Naper-ville’s Meadow Glens Elementary School; a Yoga teacher and Reiki Master at Abhyaasa Yoga Studio in Naperville, and the founder of Bring Your Own Bag Naperville, and Bruce, the owner of People’s Construction in Naperville have three chil-dren, Ryan (33) serving in the Air Force in Florida with his wife and daughter; Adam (21) a recent Western Michigan University graduate, and Brooke (17) a senior at Naperville Central High School. With busy professional and social lives, in addition to children and grandchildren, any marriage must master beginning each day with a deep breath, smile, and the willingness to start each day renewed. “The bond of friendship and family, and the strength of forgive-ness are without a doubt what allowed our marriage to en-dure,” Kristen says. “We are happier now than we have ever been and planning for the next 25 years is full of excitement and joy.” Following a motto of “Lighten up and Let it Go” the couple is thrilled to have been able to celebrate the sacred occasion of renewed marriage and knows that no matter what, they will be able to overcome any obstacles ahead of them and forge ahead with the foundation of everlasting love. They are hope-ful for a second honeymoon to Hawaii or Europe in this summer! -Kristen Kucharski, Photo sby Mike Catuara The Kainrath FamilyHow do you spell love –Piglet You don’t spell it, you feel it –Pooh ♥ Renewing their Vows

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Glancer Magazine • FEBRUARY 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 15NAPERVILLE/WHEATON–Nothing expresses family love more than the Gelande family motto, “You were born from my heart”. Twenty-four-year Naperville residents, Mike, a CFO for Etnyre In-ternational and Barb, a Special Education Teacher at Hubble Middle School in Wheaton, dreamed of having a family. They desired to adopt a pair of siblings and embarked on the adoption journey in 2006 with European Adoption Consultants (EAC). Although it took about two years to finalize, the couple was even-tually connected with Lilia (7 ½) and Misha (6) and headed to a small town 2,400 miles east of Moscow in January 2008. “I will never forget walking out of the orphanage with two beautiful children,” Barb shares. Although both Lilia and Misha had medical issues including Rickets (a vitamin D deficiency), and were extremely malnourished causing underdevelopment for their ages, Barb and Mike let their love propel the healing of their children, who were truly born from their hearts. They went through years of growth hormone injections to aid in their growth; and along the way, they also learned that both kids had FASD (Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder). “Like autism, FASD has degrees of severity. Our daughter was less affected than our son. This led to many years of counseling, bio-feedback, and behavior problems with our son,” Barb reveals. “Our adoption story came with real struggles. More than we could imag-ine. However, I will always remember this quote by Sue Atkins, there is no such thing as a perfect parent. So just be a real one. Even with the struggles, we have always kept a positive outlook and searched for the good in each day.” Love will conquer all for the Gelande family and they continue to celebrate the successes. Today, Lilia is 20 years old and attending National Louis University and majoring in Elementary Education. Misha is 19 years old and a senior at Camelot in Naperville. The family is members of Alleluia Lutheran Church in Naperville and con-tinue to expand their hearts by sponsoring a child named Nicholas in Peru with Compassion International through the church. Every January 25th is "Gottcha Day". They make Russian food and look through old photos and remember how thankful they are to be a family. -Kristen Kucharski, Photos SubmittedThe Gelande FamilyA Beautiful Story of Adoption

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COVER STORYGlancer Magazine • FEBRUARY 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 17ELBURN/ST. CHARLES–Kane County Sheriff Ron Hain and Ashley Sloane met at work and became best friends. Their love continued to grow and on a get-away trip to Charleston, SC in November 2019, Ron surprised Ashley when they walked onto a waterfront pier and he got down on one knee and proposed. They were excited to bring together their newly blended family, Mason Hain (17), Ashlyn Hain (16), Sloane Kosinski (8), and De-lavan Kosinski (4) for a big wedding in Disney World, but due to COVID-19, the trip was unfortunately cancelled. However, ‘Dreams Really Do Come True’ and just like a true fairytale, love conquers all. With Ron’s brother officiating, the two were joined together as one in their Elburn kitchen with family and friends witnessing through the living room window from the front lawn. Thanks to the innovative technologies of Zoom, the ceremony was viewed across the country. The Hain family has a lot of love to share throughout their new family of six. “Having four kids with a wide age range means always scanning for new ways to support, engage them, and make them feel equally loved and important,” Ron says. “The littles get up around 6:30 a.m. and are in bed by 8 p.m., then the teens really become active; so, there’s never much down time. But, having a loving wife, who is an incredible mother, makes all of it seam-less and fun.” Ron may be the Sheriff in town, but Delavan (4) runs the house and keeps everyone on their toes with her humor and antics, while the other kids complete their e-learning and look forward to returning to softball, tennis, and college visits. Living in Elburn, the family loves downtown establishments like Gaedel's, Schmidt's and Obscurity and enjoy the proximity of St. Charles and Geneva for entertainment and food. They are a so-cial bunch and cannot wait to reconnect with family and friends and share their newfound joy in each! -Kristen Kucharski, Photos SubmittedThe Hain FamilyA Blended Famly Filled with Love♥ A Blended Family of 6

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18 • WESTERN SUBURBS • FEBRUARY 2021• Glancer MagazineNAPERVILLE–Brooke is used to living an active vibrant life as a graduate of Neuqua Valley High School who facilitated local book drives for charity and participates in the LGBTQ community. She continued her involvement at Hofstra University as a Resident As-sistant and interned with YA imprint at Macmillan Publishers; so, liv-ing away from her Naperville family and friends, in the middle of a pandemic became very lonely upon her college graduation. With a heart of gold and love to share, Brooke sought to adopt a cat. She grew up with cats and knew the companionship one could bring; furthermore, Brooke was also aware that it is difficult for shelters to place special needs cats in forever homes because people think that they propose to many challenges. “Special needs cats are just as deserving of a family, even if it means giving them a little extra attention and patience,” Brooke shares. So, she adopted Novie, originally named Finch, a three-year-old cat with special from North Shore Animal League on Long Island. “Novie (short for adoptive month of November) has cerebellar hy-poplasia (CH), which means the part of her brain in charge of bal-ance is underdeveloped,” Brooke adds. “Some cats with moderate CH walk a little wobbly, but Novie has a severe case. She cannot jump, walk, or even stand, yet she is very capable and determined. She rolls, flops, and drags herself across the room to get where she wants (the floor is covered in foam yoga mats to make it easy for her). She uses the litterbox and eats food just like any "normal" cat does. Honestly, the way she moves around is adorable and it just makes her more charming to all who meet her.” Although Brooke has been almost completely shut in her apartment because of COVID, she is not lonely because she hangs with Novie every day. “It truly feels like I've become a mother because Novie is so much like a baby - sometimes she's feeling hyper and independent, and other times she just likes to cuddle up on my arm and sleep.” Novie is a great companion while Brooke completes her daily tasks working in data entry with the hopes to enter the children's publish-ing industry in the very near future. To share in the love, you can follow Novie via her Instagram page @noviefinch. -Kristen Kucharski, Photos SubmittedBrooke SokoloskiSo Much Love & Care for Her Special Needs Cat♥ A Special Needs CatCOVER STORY18 • WESTERN SUBURBS • FEBRUARY 2021 • Glancer Magazine

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10#1 | Micro Weddings 210 Cedar, St. Charles • www.210cedar.com A micro wedding is an intimate, more personal wedding with a smaller group of close family and friends. 210Cedar is a boutique event space located in the Cen-tury Corners Historic Shopping District in downtown St. Charles. Exposed beams, natural light, and an outdoor space with a view of the city, make this venue a perfect space that is warm and inviting. It is a place where old memories can be shared, and new ones will be made with accommodations for up to 40 guests. Clients pro-vide their own food and beverage. #2 | The Great Outdoors Norfolk Farm, Oswego • www.nforkfarm.com/#farm Dreaming of a wedding surrounded by white fences of lush green pastures filled with Kentucky Derby Bloodline Race Horses? Northfork Farm will make your dreams come true with elegant country outdoor wedding facilities. With beautifully appointed areas featuring mature trees, majestic flower gardens, rich green pas-tures with famous thoroughbred horses, and wonderful hospitality. Immediately fol-lowing the ceremony, the tent and horse barn area will be available for cocktails, games, bonfire, and country dining. TRENDSTrends when Saying “I Do” Locally10 TRENDS 202120 • WESTERN SUBURBS • FEBRUARY 2021 • Glancer Magazine

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#3 | Farm to Table Heritage Prairie Farm, Elburn www.heritageprairiefarm.com/weddings/ Mother nature sets the perfect backdrop on a beautiful Certified Organic Farm. This all-inclusive venue specializes in completely original outdoor weddings through Farm to Table Cuisine. Throughout the planning process, they keep a very close eye on the Farm’s natural bounty. Then, the crew harvests when possible from their USDA Certified Organic Farm what can be interwoven into the personal taste of your menu. Then a customized menu is created from scratch to create a unique wedding. #4 | Sustainability Green Wedding Alliance, Chicago Area www.greenweddingalliance.com Chicago's Green Wedding Alliance is a growing community of environmen-tally & socially responsible event vendors. They connect with conscious consumers for mindful weddings, commitment ceremonies & social events. The Alliance is a collaborative network of over 40 member vendors who strive to grow & inform others of their responsible business practices. #5 | Warehouses Warehouse 109, Plainfield • www.warehouse109.com A new venue in an old warehouse. Featuring a spacious and flexible event space, meeting the need for an interesting venue to host your next event. WAREHOUSE: 109 provides many unique vignettes; including a gallery of antique motorcycles, a vintage bar, and a 1958 Airstream turned into a lounge. Over 4,000 square feet of interior space with an additional 2,000 square feet of courtyard space Create your own unique indoor/outdoor event for seated dinners of up to 150 guests, receptions for up to 200 guests and wedding ceremonies. #6 | Sweet Tables Vanilla Sugar Bakery, Glen Ellyn • www.vanillasugarbakery.com Vanilla Sugar Bakery is a sister owned scratch bakery. All of their recipes have been crafted and tweaked for many years using only the finest and freshest ingredients. Which means there are no preservatives, fillers or ad-ditives in any of the products baked in the VSB Kitchen. Each and every morning they begin baking in the early morning hours so that you are always guaranteed the most incredible gourmet sweet eats. Unique treats. #7 | Music Twist Jim Perona, Classical Guitarist, Wheaton • www.jimperona.com With a repertoire that consisted of traditional wedding music, classical guitar staples and his growing list of contemporary arrangements, Jim has now ar-ranged over 200 songs for solo guitar and features them prominently in his performances. The classical guitar performance technique combined with the familiarity of the repertoire has made for exciting performances and highly acclaimed awards. Jim has also been personally invited by John McDonough (Chicago Blackhawks President & CEO) to perform on multiple occasions for the Chicago Blackhawks organization at the United Center. Jim was also invited to perform for the United Center Concert Club, serving as the pre-concert act to headliners Fleetwood Mac. Glancer Magazine • FEBRUARY 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 21 #8 | Floral Photo Backdrops Floral Wonders, Geneva/Batavia www.floral-wonders.com/weddings Founder and creative force behind Floral Wonders, Eva Kamieniak's life has always been driven by her love of design. From those first drawing classes as a five-year-old to making clothes and furniture for her Barbies, she knew she loved the creative process. The journey that culminated in the opening of Floral Wonders includes interning at a milliner's shop, graduating from Harrington College of Interior Design in Chicago and hands-on experience in the world of interior design, photography and fashion. She specializes in Floral Backdrops for weddings and is passionate about flowers - all of them! From the lushest peonies to the most delicate ranunculus, with all the roses, lilies, tulips, and greens in between. #9 | A Touch of History Naper Settlement, Naperville www.napersettlement.org/109/Weddings Naper Settlement was built in 1864, the charm and elegance of Century Me-morial Chapel comes through in its original stained-glass windows and dec-orative hand stenciling. The curved buttresses, carved pews and globe lighting highlight the Gothic Revival style of architecture. Make some mem-ories in one of Chicagoland’s only historic wedding chapels! #10 | Bling In the Barn Bling in the Barn, Geneva • www.blinginthebarn.com Creative innovation is the heart and soul of providing a direct source to wed-ding props, customized wedding decor, and centerpieces for them to create inspirational designs for every client and to execute the vision flawlessly. They bring an innovative approach to each couples’ style. If you can dream it, they can build it, and believe in making the impossible possible. Their specialty is authentic and memorable celebrations, paired with unparalleled attention to detail, bespoke design, and flawless execution.

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Valentine’s Date Night In a Box ♥ $85 Saturday, February 13 by Iron&Glass Romeoville and Happy Belly Chefs ROMEOVILLE–Have a special Valentine’s Weekend date at home! The Happy Belly Chefs have whipped up a lovely menu of 5 courses for two that we will pair with 5 beers that will be all packaged together in a box with handy instructions. MENU: Grapefruit and Fennel Salad with Hazelnuts and Shave Paremsan with White Balsamic Dressing Paired with an IPA Roasted Chilled Shrimp with Smoky Cocktail Sauce Paired with a Lager or IPA Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Manicotti with Mozza-rella, Ricotta and Spinach Paired with a Farmhouse Sweet and Tangy Sicilian Brisket with Beer Braised Fennel and Onions Paired with a Porter or Stout Almond Cake with Bittersweet Chocolate Sauce and Poached Cherries Paired with a Stout Place your order at: www.ironglasstap.shopsettings.com Head Over to I&G Romeoville on 2/13 anywhere be-tween 3-6pm to Grab Your Date Night Box 632 S. Weber Rd, Romeoville, IL Daddio’s Diner Valentine’s Weekend Special by Daddio’s Diner BATAVIA–Daddio's Diner is a retro neighborhood diner in the heart of Downtown Batavia. We are offering up a delicious array of Valentine's Specials for you to order and pickup to share with your loved ones! Surprise your valentine with a "Light My Fire" Breakfast Bowl or our "Romeo & Juliette" Waffle, pictured here! CALL OR ORDER ONLINE Call (630) 879-5299 to order and check out our website at www.daddiosdiner.biz for our full menu and more info!" Daddio's Diner 134 W. Wilson St., Batavia • (630) 879-5299 Open for curbside pickup & family style catering Tues-Fri 8am – 7pm Sat-Sun 7am – 2pm Glancer Magazine • FEBRUARY 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 23EAT DRINK & BE MINE♥

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Galentine’s Day ♥ Girlfriend’s Night Out • February 12 by Pizza & Culinary LISLE–Grab your best pal and join us for cocktails and small bites as we celebrate friendship! We will enjoy drinks and bites with our besties as we learn new, fun recipes for your next get together, virtual happy hour, or your own Galentine's Day celebration! ♥ PRICE IS FOR 2 ♥ • Smoked Salmon Cucumber Bites • Ginger Snap and Blue Cheese Dip • Dark Chocolate Brownies with Raspberry Goat Cheese Swirl • Raspberry Rose Fizz WHAT TO EXPECT IN THIS HANDS ON CLASS: Your chef instructor will teach the proper techniques to elevate your cooking. You will work with other guests in a fun, hands-on envi-ronment led by our Chef Instructor. Work from a recipe that was created for each specific class Work others to prepare each dish from start to finish Classes are roughly 2 to 2 1/2 hours, unless otherwise noted above, and each student will enjoy a full meal of what you created in class Cooking classes are conducted in our state of the art Blue Star outfitted demonstration kitchen and each class is led by an experienced chef instructor. Wine, beer and Soft drinks are for sale (sorry, no BYOB) Students receive a 10% to shop before or after class ORDER ONLINE www.pizzaculinaryacademy.com View More Details & Guidelines OnlineEAT, DRINK & BE MINE ♥24 • WESTERN SUBURBS • FEBRUARY 2021• Glancer MagazineValentine’s Day Weekend February 12-14 ♥ $35 Prixe Fixe by SixtyFour - Wine Bar & Kitchen NAPERVILLE–Enjoy Valentine's Day Weekend at SixtyFour! $35 Prix Fixe all weekend, or choose off of their regular menu. Plus, if you join us Sunday, get a complimentary glass of spar-kling wine or beer! SixtyFour - Wine Bar & Kitchen features 64 wines by the glass every day, 64 local craft beers, curated cocktails, a retail sec-tion, and a full lunch and dinner menu. Menu available online. Reservations can be made at www.sixtyfourwinebar.com/reservations 123 Water Street, Suite 105A, NapervilleValentine's Dinner for Two February 12-14 by Francesca’s Restaurants CHICAGOLAND–Love is in the air at Francesca's this Valen-tine's weekend! Celebrate with a steak & lobster dinner for two catered by Francesca's, complete with salad, dessert & a com-plimentary bottle of wine. Order by Noon deadline on Thursday 2/11 for pick-up on Friday 2/12, Saturday 2/13 or Sunday 2/14 between 4:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m. www.miafrancesca.com/location/mia-francesca-passagio/

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26 • WESTERN SUBURBS • FEBRUARY 2021 • Glancer MagazineHEART SHAPED CAKES Portillo’s Famous Chocolate Cake Dons Its “Lovely” Shape for Charity Partnership with No Kid Hungry CHICAGOLAND–Portillo’s, the fast-casual restaurant brand known for its menu of Chicago-style favorites, proudly an-nounces a new charity partnership with No Kid Hungry. Coinciding with Valentine’s Day, Portillo’s will offer its Heart-Shaped Chocolate Cake, a limited-time holiday spin on the brand’s iconic Famous Chocolate Cake ($15.99-$16.99, based on location). As part of the partnership, Portillo’s will be donating $5 from each cake purchased – up to $25,000 – to No Kid Hungry. This charitable contribution will benefit No Kid Hungry’s mission to end child hunger in America by ensuring that all chil-dren get the healthy food they need every day to thrive. The single-layer cakes will be available in restaurants from February 5-14. Portillo’s fans across the country can also purchase a Heart-Shaped Cake on portillos.com. The shop-n-ship cake retails at $43.99, which includes free two-day shipping, and is available to ship to all 50 states. For more information on the restaurant, please visit www.portillos.com or follow Portillo’s on Facebook, Twitter, or In-stagram. Customers can find the Portillo’s location nearest to them by visiting www.portillos.com. EAT, DRINK & BE MINE ♥

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Glancer Magazine • FEBRUARY 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 31TRENDY TRAVELERFor those looking to pop the big question, Grand Velas Riviera Maya offers the Ultimate Proposal Package. Along with a multi-course ro-mantic dinner and dessert on the pristine white sand Carib-bean beach, the experience includes presentation of the ring by a magician, bottle of champagne, bouquet of flowers and more. At Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit, couples can enjoy a Cinema Under the Stars Experience in the resort's gar-den, amphitheater, or beach, where a private screening of a movie of choice will be shown. One can also pop the question during skydiving with the Over-the-Top Engagement Package. A Private Lovers' Picnic awaits at adults-only bou-tique hotel Casa Velas in Puerto Vallarta. The 4-hour experience includes a secluded area for a serene pic-nic surrounded by lush flora, personalized gourmet menu by the hotel's chef, cocktails made fresh from the botanical garden, and more. For spa-loving couples, Velas Vallarta offers an exclu-sive Moonlight Massage on the property's jetty ac-companied by soothing sounds of the night tide. For the ultimate Valentine's Day experi-ence, the resort collection recently un-veiled a Grand Velas Journey across Mexico with private jet travel in cooperation with Air Partner. The 14-day adven-ture features 14 once-in-a-lifetime experiences, such as microadventures to Mexico's natural wonders and spirited day trips to Tequila and Valle de Guadalupe; tasting of the World's Most Expensive Taco at $25K; cooking with one of Mexico's only Maitre Cuisiners de France; accommodation in Presidential Suites, and more. Nightly rates start at $164 at Velas Vallarta; $225 at Casa Velas; $373 at Grand Velas Riviera Nayarit; $582 at Grand Velas Los Cabos; and $621 at Grand Velas Riviera Maya. All-inclusive rates are per-son in double. For reservations or more information, call (888) 407-4869 or visit www.velasresorts.com.

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FITNESSHEALTH + WELLNESSDR. ALEESHA FISCHER Local Mom Shares Her Passion for Helping Others NAPERVILLE–Dr. Aleesha Fischer, the founder of Naperville Chiropractice & Massage, was born in South Dakota. She played basketball and volley-ball in high school and college. She went to NSU in Aberdeen, SD, ob-taining a Biology Major. During undergraduate school she shadowed many different medical professions. She fell in love with chiropractic and the nat-ural way of healing. She started chiropractic school at Northwestern Health Sciences University and graduated there in 2004. She moved to Las Vegas, got married and started working. After 2 years working as a chiropractic associate, she bought the practice and worked there until moving to Illinois in 2012. After taking a break to raise her daughter, she decided she really missed helping people feel their best so when an opportunity came up to open an office Downtown Naper-ville she took it. “I am very passionate about helping people get out of pain as well as get-ting the spine and nervous system functioning at its best. So many think pain and not feeling well is normal and part of aging, but I disagree, so many conditions can be helped with chiropractic care. Pain is exhausting and decreases quality of life. I want to help my patients stay strong and active which will lead to a full, happy, productive life.” shared Aleesha. Naperville Chiropractice & Massage is located at 47 E. Chicago Avenue, Suite 332-B in Downtown Naperville. Glancer Magazine • FEBRUARY 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 33

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MARCEL'S CULINARY EXPERIENCE When was the last time you learned a new skill? There is a palpable fear of embarrassment or failure that prohibits many of us from trying new things. But, life is about experiences! And one of the greatest joys of ‘adulting’ is continued learning. By seeking new skills, we discover new passions … forge new friendships … gain new hobbies and embrace new-found strengths. Finding creative outlets for personal growth builds confidence, reduces boredom and energizes neural pathways. As we’ve slowed our hurried pace of life, there is one skill that has experienced a resurgence - it’s cooking! Those interested in further developing life’s most savory skill, Mar-cel’s Culinary Experience in Glen Ellyn is sure to satisfy! This suburban gem, located in the historic George M.H. Wagner building, opened its doors in September of 2011 and offers hands-on cooking classes for all ages and skill levels. The name ‘Marcel’ pays homage to the owners’ grandfather (a French chef) who was born and raised in Tours, France. This one-of-a-kind cooking school exposes stu-dents to professional chefs, while celebrating food in a fun, new way. Since 2011, Marcel’s has expanded its business portfolio to include Marché (its specialty gourmet market - featur-ing many local artisans) and Maison (its in-home private chef experience). Ask about the Marché Love Stinks Val-entine’s Day gift box, famous pimento cheese spread or seasonal pickled blueberries! Fall in love with a new skill this month! We hope it takes you on a fabulous food adventure. But, more importantly, as Marcel’s reminds us - “what is on your table is less important than who is around it.” Watch for Unique In Suburbia in each monthly issue of Glancer Magazine. UNIQUE IN SUBURBIAby Brianna Bartemeyer Photos SubmittedUNIQUEin Suburbia34 • WESTERN SUBURBS • FEBRUARY 2021 • Glancer Magazine

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HOME DESIGN + DECORNONA JO’S Meet the Designers The popular Naperville home accessory & gift boutique offers a wide array of services. From silk floral arrangements and window treatments, to in-home design consultation. Meet this month’s featured designer: Diana Burt – Interior Design Stylist Diana is a Certified Interior Design Stylist with over 12 years of experi-ence, and she’s been on the Nona Jo’s team for more than five years. Diana’s joy is finding just the right curated design package for her clients’ home and lifestyle. Her specialty is infusing your current treasures with today’s style to making your home feel updated and comfortable. Diana’s creative ability resides in: Interior & Exterior Paint Consultation; Home Se-lections: Furniture & Layout; Window Treatments, Flooring, Tile, Color & Tex-ture palettes; Accessorizing and Staging Homes; Holiday Decorating; Outdoor Planters Learn more today at www.nonajos.comHOME DESIGNBeautiful SyleGlancer Magazine • FEBRUARY 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 39

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40 • WESTERN SUBURBS • FEBRUARY 2021 • Glancer Magazineby Mindy Kyle Photos SubmittedSHARON DOERING OF NAPERVILLE She Lies Close It has been a long writing journey for Naperville author Sharon Doering who has been writing for over twenty years. She started writing short stories in her twenties as an escape from a draining job, then wrote three novels before she landed an agent and four more novels before a publisher offered her a book deal. “When I sat down to write my first short story, I fell madly in love with the process,” says Sharon. “I was persist-ent. She Lies Close, a darkly comedic psychological thriller, is my first traditionally published novel.” In She Lies Close, recently divorced Grace Wright moves her two small children into a new house, hoping for a fresh start, hoping to reset her crippling insomnia but learns she moved right next door to the only suspect in the kidnapping of five- year-old Ava Boone. “I took the premise of a dangerous next-door neighbor and added a big old bag of What Ifs,” Sharon explains. “I wanted to write a dark, desperate and funny thriller where the characters are stretched too far, and we wit-ness some of them snap.” Currently writing at home and doing the e-learning shuffle with her three kids, Sharon has a second psychological thriller coming this summer. You can find She Lies Close every-where books are sold. KNOW A LOCAL AUTHOR? We’d Love to Meet Them! Introduce Us at editorial@glancermagazine.comLITERAARRYYlocal

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PERSONABLE, ENERGETIC & CREATIVE REAL ESTATE PROFESSIONAL SUSAN COLELLA OF BAIRD & WARNER This proud Naperville resident shares that helping local sellers and buyers doesn’t feel like work making it easy to be dedicated and re-sults oriented When she is hired to list a home she gains much of the marketing inspiration from her sellers when she asks “ what do you love about your home?” From there she designs high end cus-toms booklets with professional photography & drone shots, de-scriptions of updates, & develops unique ways to target the right buyers on the internet. Restyling her listings with professional stag-ing , 3D tours great for out of state buyers and constant follow up with all parties are all included for her recipe of success! Susan is currently meeting with sellers & buyers now in anticipation of a thriv-ing Spring market~ Call luxury listing agent Susan Colella anytime to discuss your real estate goals for 2020. Susan Colella, Baird & Warner, (630) 946-3813Susan ColellaREAL ESTATEGlancer Magazine • FEBRUARY 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 41

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BIG HEARTS OF FOX VALLEY We are a little over a month past the holidays now. Dec-orations have been put away (maybe), new toys are being played with (hopefully), and the post-holiday diets have started (ahem…). However, so many families this year were impacted by COVID, job loss, health issues and unfortunate circumstances that they found themselves in need of assistance during the holi-days. If they lived within the boundaries of school dis-trict 303, Big Hearts of Fox Valley was there to lend them a hand. Their reach covers St. Charles and por-tions of Wayne, Wasco, Elburn, West Chicago, South Elgin, Campton Hills and unincorporated Kane County. Since 2014, Big Hearts of Fox Valley (BHFV) has been working with D303 social workers to identify fam-ilies in need that may have circumstances that would impact their ability to provide gifts during the holidays. BHFV’s Christmas Gift Sponsorship & Holiday Toy Drive helps get gifts to children from wish lists they per-sonally create. The entire community is then invited to come together to the Gift Wrapping Party to help wrap donated gifts and celebrate the magic of Christmas. With the help of several local community sponsors, there is plenty of food, drinks and entertainment for the entire family. Although, they weren’t able to have a party in 2020 due to COVID restrictions, they are hop-ing and planning to have one in 2021. “This free event is a great opportunity to show children about the im-portance of giving back,” says Jennifer Mobley, BHFV President and Co-Founder. “In 2019, we had 800 volunteers at our party. D303 staff then took the wrapped gifts to each school for parent pick-up.” In January 2020, BHFV began the Big Hearts Throughout the Year program, which runs ac-cording to D303 school calendar and assists families with basic necessities, hygiene supplies and grocery store gift cards throughout the school year. Their fundraising is primarily through social media with their greatest need beginning in September of each year when they gear up for the Christmas Sponsorship Program. Donations are made directly through their website at www.big-heartsfv.org/make-a-donation or mailed into their St. Charles office. “When you donate to our organization or sponsor a child, you can be assured that you are helping a local family in need,” says Mobley. BHFV is entirely volunteer run. They use volunteers to contact local businesses for fundraising, for the holi-day toy drive, as a liaison to the schools, cataloging and organizing Christmas gifts and for necessities drives. To learn more about their on-going volunteering opportunities, fill out the volunteer form on their website at www.bigheartsfv.org/volunteer-opportuni-ties . ABOUT THE WRITER Mindy Kyle is passionate about helping people discover what brings them joy and to live a full, healthy and happy life. She has her Master of Fine Arts degree in creative writing from DePaul University and is a vet-eran of Chicago’s theater and commercial world as well as a graduate of the Second City Improv School. Mindy lives in Naperville with her husband, three children and the cutest dog in the land. VIEW MINDY’S MONTHLY COLUMN AT www.GlancerMagazine.com/to-give-to-inspireVolunteer Ran Group Supports Families In Need throughout School District 303CARING + SHARINGGlancer Magazine • FEBRUARY 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 43

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46 • WESTERN SUBURBS • FEBRUARY 2021 • Glancer Magazine Kid StuffTreat the Kids to Some Fun DIY Valentine’s this Year or Give them the Chance to Get Crafty ONLINE– Surprise your child with some DIY val-entines this Valentine's Day. Learn to make love-themed lunch box treats, creative notes, and other Valentine's Day gifts. Or help your child craft a set of valentines for their classmates. From printable candy bag toppers to silly pun cards, these clever DIY Valen-tine's Day ideas will make this February 14 extra special. www.thesprucecrafts.com/ diy-valentines-for-kids- 1103884Brookfield Zoo Run April 1-May 30, 2021 VIRTAUL EVENT–Join in on the fun for a virtual Spring Run starting April 1, 2021! The Zoo is finalizing details now. Please check back for additional information soon.Make sure you sign up for the Brook-field Zoo email newsletter so you receive regular updates, the latest event news, and special offers direct to your inbox! www.czs.org/SpringRun2021Click for More Kid Stuff!St. Charles St. Patrick’s Day Celebration • March 13, 2021 ST. CHARLES– Always a favorite, families will experi-ence the parade a litt;e bit different this year. Though the 2021 St. Patrick's Celebration will have a decreased foot-print due to health and safety restrictions from Executive Orders from the State Guidelines, activities will include a festive photo opportunity area, roaming bagpipers and a Treasure Hunt around town. Stay connected for more details! www.stcstpatricksparade.com/event-details

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GIVE THE GIFT OF GOLF NAPER-VILLE–Golf sea-son will soon be here! Come Springtime, Spring-brook and Naper-brook will be ready for great weather, while offering challenging golf and the best rates, prac-tice time on the range and re-laxation post-round on our welcoming patios with food and drinks. Tee time reservations and more online. Naperville Park District’s Springbrook & Naperbrook Golf Courses www.golfnaperville.org COSMETIC ACUPUNCTURE ST. CHARLES–Sage Healing Collective is taking the age-old practice of acupunc-ture and applying it to the pursuit of nat-ural skin care and well-being. Cosmetic acupuncture is a non-invasive treatment using tiny acupuncture needles to im-prove skin texture and fight the aging process. This ancient beauty secret is a holistic and toxin free approach to reduce the signs of aging and help skin regain its youthful glow. Sage Healing Colelc-tive, 525 S. Tyler Road, Suite S, St. Charles, (331) 901-5672. RESTORATIVE YOGA & GONG MEDITATION TOGETHER IN ONE BATAVIA–Through holistic healing and shamanic healing, the center offers dif-ferent services from cultures around the world to bring balance and harmony to your physical and emotional planes. Find unique classes like drum circles, restorative yoga and gong meditation here. Healing Arts Metaphysical Center 4 E. Wilson St., Suite 101, Batavia, www.healingartsmetaphysical.comTHE GIFT OF MASSAGE GENEVA–Chocolate and flowers are so predictable. Show someone you really care by giving them a gift that is guar-anteed to please - an Elements Massage gift card. An Ele-ments Massage gift card is a gift that relaxes and rejuvenates. So relax, you’ve found the perfect Valentine's Day gift for your special someone. Visit Elements Mas-sage-Geneva today! www.elementsmassage.com/genevaHEALTH + WELLNESShheeaalltthhyy lliivviinnggGlancer Magazine • FEBRUARY 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 49 NUMBER ONE PROVIDER OF COOLSCULPTING IN THE MIDWEST WESTERN SUBURBS–Concierge Medical Spa is a luxury medical spa with highly trained physicians, nurse practitioners and esthe-ticians offering the most comprehensive esthetic medical services. From body contouring to highly advanced future-forward restor-ative and non-surgical cosmetic procedures, our esthetic experts are some of the best in the industry. As the number one provider of Coolsculpting in the Midwest and Top 200 in the country of Al-lergan injectors, our services produce excellent results and have high client satisfaction. www.conciergemedspa.com/glancer

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52 • WESTERN SUBURBS • FEBRUARY 2021 • Glancer MagazineA U R O R A LOVE LOCAL DAYS Shop Downtown Aurora Feb 1-14 AURORA–Enjoy Love Local Days from February 1 to 14 in downtown Aurora. Show your love 3 different ways & get chances to win gift cards and raffles! 1) Tag #lovelocaldays Support a downtown business from 2/1 to 2/14. Post a photo of what you purchased and use hashtag #lovelocaldays on social media. Then tag the photo with @downtow-naurora on Instagram and @auroradowntown on Facebook. All #lovelocaldays tags will be entered into raffles for $50 gift cards to downtown businesses. A grand prize raffle will include two $50 gift cards plus a floral bouquet credit from Blissful Blooms. 2) Email Receipts Visit a downtown Aurora business from 2/1 to 2/14. Send a photo of your receipt to info@auroradowntown.org. For every $50 spent, you’ll receive one raffle entry. Grand prize raffle will include $100 in downtown gift cards plus a floral bouquet credit from Bliss-ful Blooms. 3) Sign Up! Aurora Downtown will show love to their newsletter readers by randomly drawing winners during Love Local Days. Just sign up for the newsletter and you could receive $10 – $25 in gift cards to downtown businesses. www.auroradowntown.orgSSHHOOPP MOM’S lile black bookMAI CANDLE CO. RELAX ♥ IMPROVE YOUR MOOD ♥ FEEL ENERGIZED ♥ GET GROUNDED GLEN ELLYN– Mai Candle Co. is a luxury wax melt and candle shop based in Glen Ellyn. Their products are hand-poured in small batches and made with pre-mium coconut-soy wax and high-quality phthalate-free fragrance oils. Their scents are mindfully handpicked by founder, Allegra Gallian, and help you to relax, get grounded, improve your mood, or feel energized. There’s something for everyone! All Mai Candle Co. melts and candles feature an affirmation inspired by each scent that encourages you to stop, reflect, and enjoy the moment. Wax melts are cur-rently available and candles will be available this spring. Shop online and learn more about this unique local company. www.maicandles.comSHOPPING + STYLEAllegra

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LIFE IS BETTER WHEN YOU DANCE I have been known to dance in my kitchen – a lot! I have perfected the pirouette in socks behind my peninsula and have been caught on my daugh-ter’s SnapChat reading recipes while moving and grooving to the music in the background. Dancing makes me feel alive. It makes me feel happy - however, in full disclosure – I can-not dance! In my head - I am fantastic, but when I see playback videos, it is more of a comedy show than an episode of World of Dance – so, it was absolutely time for me to im-prove my skills with some formal dance lessons. With masks adorned and small groups of less than ten (10), DeSarge Danceworld offers individual and group lessons for all dance genres - Waltz, Foxtrot, Tango, Salsa, Hustle, Ball-room, Latin, and so much more. We chose to learn the Hustle be-cause it is the easiest of all the dances to learn and with its four-beat count, the step patterns are easy to master, and go to any style of music, from any era. Within 30 minutes, I am confident Dancing with the Stars already has me on its radar for the upcoming season! We were stepping and twirling and looked like we were real actual dancers. It was filled with laughter and good spirit and the owner, Sarge had our entire group wanting to learn more. We went from zero to hero in under an hour and left with the confidence to show-off our new skills along with the desire to return to DeSarge to keep learning more! Dancing is a bit of a contagious activity and I have discovered that life is most certainly better when you dance. “There are shortcuts to happiness – and dancing is one of them” – Vicki Baum OVERVIEW Learning to dance the “DeSarge” way is fun and easy. They teach each step pattern with timing, lead, and follow. They break down each figure and teach how to master each pattern. A great activity for all ages, beginner to advance, to learn all styles including Waltz, Foxtrot, Tango, Salsa, Hustle, Ballroom, Latin, and so much more. All safety measures in place with individual and small group activities available. DeSarge Danceworld 632 Amersale Drive, Unit #104 Naperville, IL 60563 (630) 355-1188 www.desargedanceworld.com Hours: Call for Private Lesson Opportunities Price $: Varies based on Selection ABOUT THE WRITER Naperville mom Kristen Kucharski graduated from Illinois State Uni-versity in 1992 with an International Business Degree. She has two energetic daughters and her house is always full of children. Kristen’s column titled, Mom's Little Black Book, is a monthly fea-ture written for moms who are looking for ways to keep their kids busy. Read her past columns at www.glancermagazine.com/bloggersGlancer Magazine • FEBRUARY 2021 • WESTERN SUBURBS • 53by Kristen Kucharski Photos Submitted MOM’S lile black bookMOM’S LITTLE BLACK BOOK

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4. The Bookstore GLEN ELLYN–Longtime cus-tomers, Shannon Burgess and Gail Dickson, purchased The Bookstore from the Strohs on January 1, 2018 and so far, so fabulous. Support local! Love Poems (for Married People) by John Kenney, $15.00 www.bookstoreofge.indielite.org 1. Lauren Rae Jewelry NAPERVILLE–Lauren Rae Jewelry Boutique is a local family owned and operated business loaded with thousands of pieces of both trendy and classic jewelry styles and accessories! Lauren Rae has a large selection of sterling silver, semi-precious gemstones and most of their jewelry is handmade or made within the US. Choose from many unique styles & treat someone special. www.shoplaurenrae.com5. Floral Expressions OSWEGO–Floral Expressions and Gifts Inc. has been hand-delivering premium floral arrangements and gift baskets to help strengthen relationships, give love and support, and celebrate life’s special moments since 2001. This Valentine’s Day, treat someone you love to their Indulgence Spa Basket, $66.95 www.floralexpressionsandgifts.net 3. Crystal House AURORA–Owned by Chaz and Elias, this Aurora business specializes in mak-ing memories in crystal and personalization using engraving techniques to create custom awards, gifts with your images or theirs that are des-tined to become heirlooms including the ‘When I Follow My Heart’ White Wine Glass, $40 www.crystalhouse.us7. The Beer Cellar Glen Ellyn GLEN ELLYN–Owner Dave Hawley is a craft beer geek who couldn't find a local store dedicated to craft beer, so he decided to start his own. The Beer Cellar is the first store and tap room dedicated to selling fresh, local craft beer in the western suburbs. Support local this year iwth the Liq-uid Love Glass, $7.99 www. beercellarglenellyn.com“All you need is love, but a little chocolate now and then doesn’t hurt.” –Charles M. Schultz This month we are continuing to promote the power of shopping local. Here, we list 7 Spectacular Places to Shop for the Best Valentine’s Day Gifts Ever. You’ll fall in love with each one and hey can all be found locally. From unique jewelry to dance classes and more– remember to show the love & shop local!1.3.4.2.58 • WESTERN SUBURBS • FEBRUARY 2021• Glancer MagazinePLACES FOR THE BEST VALENTINE’S DAY GIFTS EVER7.5.6.The Sugar Path GENEVA–This celebration bakery is owned by two sisters, Michelle and Nina. They offer cakes, cupcakes, pies and cookies for events and ship cake jars and cookies nationwide. Chocolate Peanut Butter—-Chocolate cookies crust, Peanut Butter filling, peanut garnish, fudge drizzle. www.sugarpathshop.com 2. Fred Astaire Dance Studios ST. CHARLES–For over 65 years this local dance studio has been an expert in fullfilling all of your dancing needs - with expert instruction in ballroom dancing. They teach social dancing, health and fitness, with a competitive flair. Join them for your healthy lifestyle and give the gift of a dance class....or two. Experience top-notch dance lessons, anywhere! $20 www.fredastaire.com/st-charles/ 6.

Glancer Magazine, February 2021

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