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NDSS PARTNERS WITH MATTEL TO BRING THE FIRST BARBIE WITH DOWN SYNDROME TO THE TOY AISLE APRIL 25, 2023– Barbie is marking a new first in the doll's 64-year history. On Tuesday, Mattel unveiled the first-ever Barbie doll with Down syndrome . The new Barbie was created through a partnership between Mattel and the National Down Syndrome Society , which describes itself as "the leading human rights organization for all individuals with Down syndrome ." To ensure the doll accurately represents a person with Down syndrome, Barbie worked closely with the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS). NDSS empowers individuals with Down syndrome and their families by providing resources, driving policy change, engaging with local communities. NDSS’s guidance and real-world experiences informed the design process from start to finish, including the doll’s sculpt, clothing, accessories and packaging. The close partnership ensured the Barbie team celebrated individuals with Down syndrome through a doll that would immediately connect with the community. Counseled by NDSS, Barbie was purposeful with every design choice for the doll, including: Sculpt : This doll introduces a new face and body sculpt to be more illustrative of women with Down syndrome, including a shorter frame and a longer torso. The new face sculpt features a rounder shape, smaller ears, and a flat nasal bridge, while the eyes are slightly slanted in an almond shape. The doll’s palms even include a single line, a characteristic often associated with those with Down syndrome.1 Fashion & Accessories : The doll’s puff sleeved dress pattern features butterflies and yellow and blue colors, which are symbols and colors associated with Down syndrome awareness. The doll’s pink pendant necklace with three upward chevrons represents the three copies of the 21st chromosome, which is the genetic material that causes the characteristics associated with Down syndrome. The three chevrons, or arrows, are a symbol that unites the Down syndrome community and are meant to represent “the lucky few” who have someone with Down syndrome in their life. Orthotics : The Barbie Fashionista doll with Down syndrome also wears pink ankle foot orthotics (AFOs) to match her outfit and her sneakers tout a zipper detail. Some children with Down syndrome use orthotics to support their feet and ankles, and NDSS provided a box of orthotics to serve as real-life inspiration for the ones this Barbie Fashionista is wearing, matched to her outfit and the bright colors in her design. Children’s early experiences help shape their thoughts and perceptions – and Barbie can play an important role in this process. When a child plays with Barbie, they play out their dreams and imagine they can be anything. Doll play has an incredible purpose during key developmental stages as it may help set children on a course for success by allowing them to develop empathy – fueling social skills needed to excel as they imagine their futures with an equal playing field2. The Barbie doll with Down syndrome allows more children to see themselves in Barbie as well as the world around them, which can help foster a sense of inclusivity. Barbie is the most inclusive doll line on the market – with over 175 looks offering a variety of eye colors, hair colors and textures, body types, disabilities and fashions to tell more stories. Barbie has introduced dolls with vitiligo, dolls that use a wheelchair or a prosthetic limb, a doll with hearing aids and a doll without hair. This year, Barbie is continuing to represent global belonging and inclusivity with the full 2023 Fashionistas lineup , which also includes new dolls in a variety of body types including a new Fashionista doll wearing braces and a Ken Fashionista doll with a prosthetic leg. The 2023 Fall Fashionistas dolls, including the Barbie doll with Down syndrome, are available in limited quantities online now and in store this Summer and Fall at major retailers for $10.99 USD. ABOUT THE PRODUCT Barbie® Fashionistas™ celebrate diversity and offer endless possibilities for storytelling and fashion exploration. With this inclusive range of dolls, kids can see how fun it is to express personality through style! They’re an ideal gift for fashion-loving kids everywhere. Each sold separately, subject to availability. Dolls cannot stand alone. Colors and decorations may vary. Designed to reflect the world kids see today, this diverse line of Barbie® Fashionistas™ showcases bright and trendy styles that make for endless storytelling possibilities. Meet the first Barbie® doll with Down syndrome! Barbie® partnered with the National Down Syndrome Society to design a doll that celebrates this community. Meaningful symbols are incorporated throughout her outfit, like butterflies -- which are a symbol of Down syndrome -- and the blue and yellow color palette, which represents Down syndrome awareness. Her pink pendant necklace has three arrows to represent the third 21st chromosome that individuals with Down syndrome have, and they point outwards to represent rising up and moving forward. Barbie® doll’s pink ankle foot orthoses (AFOs) match her outfit perfectly and support her as she walks, while her white sneakers have a zipper detail so kids can easily slip them on and off! She has blond hair and rocks a floral dress with puff sleeves! With such a versatile and stylish look, this Barbie® doll is ready for any adventure that kids dream up! Kids 3 years old and up can collect other Barbie® Fashionistas™ dolls for even more fun with friends and fashion at playtime! PURCHASE IT HERE KIDS STUFF SPECIAL NEEDS NEWS

SPECIAL NEEDS NEWS | Barbie Unveils First-Ever Doll with Down Syndrome

NDSS Partners with Mattel to Bring the First Barbie with Down Syndrome to the Marketplace

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DISCOVERY PARK IS LOCATED ON SHORT STREET LISLE–– Lisle Park District, in partnership with Unlimited Play Playgrounds, is excited to announce the opening of the community’s first, universally accessible playground, aptly named “Discovery Playground,” located in Community Park (1825 Short St., Lisle). With the help of the nonprofit, Unlimited Play, a generous donation from Lisle Partners for Parks Foundation, and overwhelming support from local businesses and residents alike, the project broke ground late summer, 2019. While there were some speedbumps along the way, the community came together to make the vision of an inclusive playground possible. Thanks to the tireless efforts and impressive skill of Lisle Park District Parks and Playground Specialists, the playground was constructed and officially opened to the public at a ribbon cutting on Saturday, August 29. As mentioned during the small ceremony by Lisle Park District Director, Dan Garvy, none of this would have been possible without the support of local organizations, in addition to Lisle Partners for Parks Foundation, like SEASPAR, The Main Street Organization of Realtors, as well as great support from the Lisle community and beyond. The park district is proud to provide an inclusive, safe play space for all ages and abilities, and could not be prouder of the work done by parks staff to make the mission a reality. Director Garvy summed up the opportunity to bring this project to the community, particularly during this difficult time period, saying “Let Discovery Playground, Opportunities without Boundaries, serve as a testament to what a community can do together, and be a beacon of inspiration and hope moving forward.” Children and adults, with and without disabilities and/or critical illnesses, will have the opportunity to play, learn, and grow, in a space specifically designed to remove physical and social barriers. Unlimited Play is a nonprofit organization that works with communities to build universally inclusive playgrounds to promote health and wellness and change communities by providing freedom of play for all children. The organization helps plan, design, and build fully accessible playgrounds, allowing children – regardless of their abilities – to play together. The Lisle Park District provides a variety of leisure activities for people of all ages throughout the year. Park district facilities include Lisle Community Park; the Recreation Center which houses Gentle Learning Preschool, SEASPAR, the Senior Center, and multipurpose rooms; Sea Lion Aquatic Park; River Bend Golf Course; Wheatstack – A Midwestern Eatery & Tap and numerous neighborhood playgrounds and parks offering amenities such as tennis courts, ball fields, walking paths and picnic areas totaling close to 400 acres. It is the mission of the Lisle Park District to enrich the quality of life for people of all ages by providing constructive and creative leisure opportunities. For more information about the Lisle Park District, please call 630-964-3410 or visit www.lisleparkdistrict.org . ALL SPECIAL NEEDS NEWS ALL DUPAGE

SPECIAL NEEDS NEWS | All-Inclusive Discovery Playground Officially Opens In Lisle

DISCOVERY PARK IS LOCATED ON SHORT STREET LISLE–– Lisle Park District, in partnership with Unlimited Play Playgrounds, is excited to...

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3 CABS, 2 REGIONS, 1 YEAR How’s this for fun? I went to a friend’s house for a dinner party and decided to bring over two 2006 Cabernet Sauvignons, a Lewelling and Ramey. After seeing the bottles I brought over, my friend pulled out a 2006 Don Melchor Cabernet Sauvignon from her stash. BAM! We had an impromptu, and what the business calls, a Horizontal Wine Tasting. We tried 3 different cabs from 2 different regions all from the same year. The first bottle we opened, Lewelling (97% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Cabernet Franc) was a marriage of dark berries, black cherries, exotic spice, earth and tobacco flavors. The tannins were velvety and the finish was long. We then tasted the second bottle, Ramey (91% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Cabernet Franc, 4% Petit Verdot, 2% Malbec). This stood up strong with notes of prunes, dried figs, currants and oak. It was a deliciously well-rounded wine. Finally we got to our third bottle, Don Melchor (100% Cabernet Sauvignon), with bold flavors of dark chocolate, tobacco, leather and cedar. It was a rather voluptuous wine. We were all very impressed with each wine’s characteristics. Although we had different favorites, we really enjoyed them all immensely. You don’t have to go to a formal wine tasting, just have one at your dining room table. Invite some friends and have them bring a bottle fitting your theme. It can be as simple as Pinot Noirs from around the globe to different grapes from the same region, or something like what I just did, with a specific year. However you do it, have some fun with friends and hopefully you’ll learn a little something new along the way. Sláinte! ABOUT THE WRITER  Eric McMillan, The Chicago Wino, is your source for lighthearted reviews of wine. thechicagowino.com also features links to fun tools like wine/food pairing, ideal serving temperatures, and "must try" bottles! Visit thechicagowino.com for a simple look at some complex flavors. "Like" Eric on Facebook–The Chicago Wino #GlancerMagazine #DiningCabaret #TheChicagoWino #EricMcMillan #February2016 #FeaturedBlog

THE CHICAGO WINO | February 2016

3 CABS, 2 REGIONS, 1 YEAR How’s this for fun? I went to a friend’s house for a dinner party and decided to bring over two 2006 Cabernet...

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HOW TO BE THE BEST VERSION OF YOU! This new monthly column highlights how local area women can be the best version of themselves through everyday struggles that we face. Joann Pierce, a west suburban wellness and fitness enthusiast, will answer everyday struggles that women face each month to help our readers to be the best version of themselves. Send your Everyday Struggles to editorial@glancermagazine.com EVERYDAY STRUGGLE: My dad always said “If you look good, you feel good” but lately, looking good has taken a backseat to my everyday life of crazy– from carpooling the kids to crushing numbers at work, I look as frazzled as I feel. What can I do? -Lucy S., Elmhurst Looking frazzled is usually a sign of “feeling” frazzled! The first step to making change is to understand how you “feel”. Once you’ve identified that “root” feeling you can start to make changes. Not too long ago, I was that stressed-out, overwhelmed, frazzled woman. I gained weight because I didn't pay attention to what I ate and how much of “me” I was giving to others. Always putting everyone else first, I didn't think to put myself on my priority list. Once I hit my 40’s I had a moment of truth. I turned my life around with three simple self-care strategies. 1) Become grounded with a new personal development book every month. 2) Minimize the health club craze and workout only 30 minutes a day, 5-7 days a week at home. 3) Eat healthy whole foods and meals that provide all the dense nutrients my body needs. I now have more time to feel and look less frazzled and do the things I enjoy! EVERYDAY STRUGGLE: Healthy habits seem to have left the building when I am at work. Since lunch hour is so rushed I always run out to the nearest fast food spot and go for the value meals, which helps the wallet but not the waste. Any tips? -Valerie F., Naperville If you’re at a desk all day, your best lunch option will always be the one you prepare yourself. Preparing your own meals gives you more control over what and how much you eat. But if you have to order it, do so from your office, then walk to pick it up. Chances are you’ll eat healthier, consume fewer calories and make a better meal choice. Ordering carry-out remotely removes sensory cues, specifically smells, like the delicious aroma of pizza and pastries. If you are in an office that has a kitchen, whipping up a meal replacement smoothie is easy, cost effective and nutritious if the right one is chosen. I have found one that is all natural, loaded with super foods, less than 180 calories and drink it daily. about the writer Joann Pierce is a wellness and fitness enthusiast who is living a lifestyle she never thought was possible. She’s been a stay-at-home Mom for 12 years and started in fitness years ago– from kickboxing to yoga. Continuing her journey in 2011, she completed her 200hr Yoga Certification at Prairie Yoga in Lisle. With over 1000 teaching hours, she completed her associate Life Coach Certification in 2013 and became a Beachbody Coach. She helps those who are looking to change their bad habits and embark on a fitness and nutrition platform for personal happiness. “The greatest reward is the people I am surrounded by and all of those who choose to go after their dreams and goals! Everyday I wake up ready to help at least two people a day.” Joann Pierce #phase40 Fitness, Empowering you is what we do. Beachbody Coach, Life Coach, RYT 200hr Yogi • www.phase40fitness.com FB: Joann Pierce • joannpierce@phase40fitness.com #February2016

EVERYDAY STRUGGLES | February 2016

HOW TO BE THE BEST VERSION OF YOU! This new monthly column highlights how local area women can be the best version of themselves through...

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FILL YOUR HEART & BODY WITH LOVE One of our favorite memories growing up of Valentine’s Day was coming home from school to find the house filled with the sweet aroma of freshly baked cupcakes and the table embellished with paper hearts and sweet treats. As we have grown we find that life just keeps getting busier! This Valentine’s Day we found the solution. No reservations needed. Chef and owner of Blackberry Market Anna Davidson will prepare your meal for you and your loved ones to enjoy at home. While picking blackberries from the hills surrounding her grandparents Mama Polly and Daddy Bill’s home in Arkansas Anna Davidson learned to make blackberry jam and pies which inspired the name of her café and marketplace Blackberry Market in downtown Glen Ellyn. At Blackberry Market they “recognize that food is not only a means to nourishment, but an excuse to pause, reflect, and connect with those we love”. Upon entering Blackberry Market we felt a hug of warmth from the cold outside air and while the sun hid behind the clouds we couldn’t help but smile. This cozy café smelled of sweet tidbits, cinnamon rolls, coffee brewing, savory sandwiches and fruity teas. Even though many conversations filled the air there was a sense of calm. We settled in at a long wood gathering table made by hand. Blankets made by women in need hung on the walls around us. Everything in this cozy café warms your heart especially the food! Heart healthy, gluten free and vegetarian options are abundant. Market case items change daily. The ever present Blackberry Salad has candied pecans, blackberries, goat cheese with a light blackberry dressing. We paired the robust roasted red pepper/eggplant soup with the popular farmhouse cheddar/tomato chutney grilled cheese. The mac and cheese looked so comforting we had to try it. It is perfect. Blackberry Market not only offers breakfast, soups, sandwiches, market sides, and bakery items to enjoy there or to go, they also have dinner to go. Each month a new weekly menu is written on the chalkboard or on the website. The Valentine’s Day meal includes 2 6oz. filets, 2 grilled shrimp skewers, creamy mac and cheese, asparagus and 2 red velvet cupcakes. It’s simple, just pick up at Blackberry Market anytime that day, take home and follow the heating instructions. Quantities are limited so be sure to order early! Our Valentine’s Day plans now include an afternoon stop at Blackberry Market to share a cinnamon roll or dense chocolate peace cookie accompanied by a tea or latte. Share a few laughs and memories then grab our dinners and head home to enjoy with our loved ones! Blackberry Market 401 N. Main St., Glen Ellyn www.blackberry.is Chef & Owner: Anna Davidson ABOUT THE CRITICS  Stephanie (right) & Tiffany (left) Schmoker are west suburban sisters who have always shared a love for dining out and they also enjoy cooking together. They came from a family of 7 and grew up on farm with fresh fruits, veggies and more. Watch for their review of a different west suburban restaurant in each issue of Glancer Magazine. #February2016 #SavorySweetSisters

SAVORY & SWEET SISTERS | February 2016

FILL YOUR HEART & BODY WITH LOVE One of our favorite memories growing up of Valentine’s Day was coming home from school to find the...

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STOMP Heart Pounding Fun! There’s a reason Planet Hollywood in Vegas built a theatre for the sole purpose of housing STOMP… and there’s a reason they sold out every show at the Paramount last time they were in town. An inventive, energizing and downright electrifying spectacle that blends dance, music, percussion and theatricals into one gigantic rhythm that will have your heart pounding. You’ll never look at paint cans, plumbing fixtures or even the kitchen sink the same. February 26-27. www.paramountaurora.com SKI TIME! Cross-Country Skiing Love to cross country ski? Then you’ll love this! When four inches or more of snow have accumulated on The Morton Arboretum grounds, rent a pair of snowshoes or cross-country skis at the Vistor’s Center and set off on a scenic adventure through the snow-capped trees. Explore 3.5 miles of designated ski trails or blaze your own path across 16 miles of hiking trails. Program available through March 5. Check online for popular ski areas. The Morton Arboretum, www.mortonarb.org MAKE MAGIC Learn Awesome Tricks This exciting and exclusive, 90-minute hands-on experience is a once in a lifetime opportunity for you to learn magic first-hand from a master magician. In Magic Made Me Do It - Daniel Martin guarantees that his fun and easy-to-learn tricks will help make you the center of attention at your next party or family gathering. Limited to those age 16+. March 5, 3-4:30pm. Waubonsee Community College, Sugar Grove GO-KARTING A Need for Speed What could be more exhilerating than you and your sweetie racing each other in high-speed Go-Karts? For a unique date, or anytime you’re looking for something fun to do, head on over to K-1 Speedway in Buffalo Grove or Addison and get ready for some heart racing fun. Forget about the lawn mower-powered go-karts of your youth - these European-style electric karts are high-performance machines, producing tremendous torque and horsepower from advanced electric motors. And ladies, this date is not about looking beautiful, it’s about showing him that anything guys can do, girls can do better! Race on... www.k1speed.com Have a fun place to go? Introduce us: editorial@glancermagazine.com #OnTheFunFront #February2016

ON THE FUN FRONT | February 2016

STOMP Heart Pounding Fun! There’s a reason Planet Hollywood in Vegas built a theatre for the sole purpose of housing STOMP… and there’s...

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February 2016 – ON TOP OF THE WORLD There is it is again – the phrase I love the most, “the first of its kind in the world”, and yes – we just had to take an adventure to Chicago to check it out! I sometimes forget how close Chicago is via an express train ride and easy $2 parking at the Route 59 Metra station in Aurora. With kids under 11 riding free and students with IDs at half price, the Metra is an affordable, peaceful solution while traveling with three moms and eleven teenage girls! Our Chicago adventure began with a prized CBS Tour with Naperville resident and CBS Investigative Reporter, Dave Savini, won via a local pediatric brain cancer fundraiser for The Max Lacewell Foundation. After the girls played news reporter and weather forecaster, then participated as the live audience for the 11a.m. CBS News, we ventured out via the lesser known underground Chicago Pedway system to the world famous Billy Goat Tavern on lower Michigan Avenue. You know the place – “Cheezborger, cheezborger, cheezborger, no fries…Cheeps....no Pepsi….Coke”, made famous by Dan Aykroyd, John Belushi, and Bill Murray on Saturday Night Live in 1978. We made our way down the Magnificent Mile for some sweet treats, stopping at Dylan’s Candy Bar - a part of the world’s largest confectionary emporium and lifestyle brand of Dylan Lauren; then turned off on Ohio for a quick stop at Eataly Chicago to enjoy unique flavors at the Nutella Counter. Afterwards, we headed to the John Hancock Building for the adrenaline heart stopping thrill of the day at the first of its kind in the world - the TILT ride - allowing guests to lean outside of the 94th Floor at a 30% angle, providing unbelievable views of Chicago. With a few shrills, screams, and giggles, our group experienced an adventure like no other on the TILT. Where else can you have unique, downward facing views of the city from 1,000 feet up?! Overview Guests can TILT outward 1,000 feet above The Magnificent Mile at 360 Chicago (formerly John Hancock Observatory). TILT is the first of its kind in the world. 360 Chicago (formerly John Hancock Observatory) 875 N. Michigan Avenue, 94th Floor Chicago, IL 60611 (888) 875 8439 www.360chicago.com/tilt/ Hours: Open 365 days a year from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. Price $: General Admission $19/Adults, $13/Youth under 12. Tilt $7/person. about the writer Naperville mom Kristen Kucharski graduated from Illinois State University in 1992 with an International Business Degree. She is married and has two energetic daughters and her house is always full of children. Kristen’s column titled, Mom's Little Black Book, is a monthly feature written for moms who are looking for ways to keep their kids busy. #GlancerMagazine #KidsTeens #MomsLittleBlackBook #KristenKucharski #FeaturedBlog #February2016 #MBBPerfectForTweensTeens #MBBMiscellaneousFun

MOM'S LITTLE BLACK BOOK | Tilt at John Hancock Center

February 2016 – ON TOP OF THE WORLD There is it is again – the phrase I love the most, “the first of its kind in the world”, and yes –...

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TRENDY TRAVEL HOT SPOT #1: The Emerald Coast, Florida Are you looking for a last minute Spring Break beach getaway that won’t break the bank? Pack up the SUV and head south to Florida’s pan handle along the beautiful Emerald Coast. Charming towns situated on the shores of the Gulf of Mexico include Destin, Pensacola, Panama City, Fort Walton Beach and more. This strip of land, roughly 200 miles long and 50 to 100 miles wide, has been dubbed the "Playground of the Gulfcoast". The Destin/Fort Walton Beach area is particularily family-friendly during Spring Break, while Panama City Beach is crowded with college kids. The pan handle is ideal for Chicago area residents because it is a straight shot down I-65 by car, putting you there in approximately 15.5 hours. White sandy beaches and a beautiful ocean view all in one day, without the high cost of airfare? Not bad. Hotel options include upscale 5-Star resort hotels inclusive of beach services & more. Other options include private condo rental, which is popular for this area. Pictured is Destin West Beach & Bay Resort in Fort Walton Beach, an award-winning resort with bayside and gulfside views, 7 outdoor pools, a lazy river, fitness center and more with use of Ramada amenities next door. Pure paradise! www.destin-west.com Need a place to stay at the half-way mark? I reccommend the Holiday Inn Express in Nashville’s Opryland area. Be sure to book in advance, as it fills up fast! TRENDY TRAVEL HOT SPOT #2: Grizzly Jack’s Grand Bear Resort - Indoor Waterpark Located in Utica, Illinois near Starved Rock – just about 1.5 hours away – this trendy travel hot spot makes for the perfect family getaway all year long. The oasis of relaxation and adventure is a destination where water park fun meets nature. By day, enjoy the indoor waterpark complete with a wave pool, lazy river, water slides, a tot area and more. By night, enjoy a casual family dinner followed by tons of fun at the indoor amusement park, The Enchanted Forest, on site at the resort. Attractions include; 32' Rock Climbing Wall, Euro Bungee Trampoline, Indoor Zip Line, the Kiddie Play Zone & more. It’s super cool! BONUS! The onsite cafe overlooks the waterpark area, so Mom & Dad can enjoy their latte with a snack while watching the big kids swim together. www.grizzlyjacksresort.com LOVE TO TRAVEL? Watch for Trendy Traveler inside each issue of Glancer Magazine. Subscribe today for just $15 to receive the magazine monthly and come off the free rotation trial list (12 issues) www.glancermagazine.com #TrendyTraveler #February2016 #GlancerMagazine #TravelLeisure #LindyKleivo #February2017

TRENDY TRAVELER | February 2016

TRENDY TRAVEL HOT SPOT #1: The Emerald Coast, Florida Are you looking for a last minute Spring Break beach getaway that won’t break the...

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Featuring all things positive and inspiring for members of our community with disabilities and special needs, along with their families. From really cool events to unique programs, stay connected for this monthly feature highlighting special needs news throughout the western suburbs. Move Dance Studio Offers Dance Classes for Special Needs Moves Dance Studio in North Aurora now offers “Mighty Movers”, a new dance program for individuals with disabilities. The classes teach the fundamentals of ballet, hip hop and creative movement through music while also helping students to develop self-confidence, body awareness, coordination and musicality. The "Mighty Movers" class for children 3 to 11 will run on Saturdays from 11:15am-12:15pm and will be followed by a class for ages 12 and older from 12:15-1:15pm. Students who enroll in Moves' "Mighty Movers" classes will meet on a weekly basis at the dance studio's North Aurora location. The first class is complimentary. In June of next year, they will have the option of performing in the studio's annual dance recital which will be held at Paramount Theatre in Aurora. Moves Dance Studio, (630) 264-6300, www.moves dance.com. Pictured is Jaclyn Kleivo (5), a class participant with Down Syndrome. Grace United Methodist Church Celebrating Those With Special Needs • February 27 & 28 Grace United Methodist Church in Naperville will host “Embracing Our Special Gifts,” a weekend celebration of the gifts of individuals with special needs on Saturday, February 27, at 5:00pm during worship and Sunday, February 28, during worship at 8:15, 9:30 and 11:00am and between services in the Activity Center. Sponsored by Grace’s Open Doors Ministry (ODM), welcoming and including people with special needs and their families, this event includes an important message from our pastors, family testimonials, sharing from ODM students, their buddies and committee members, opportunities to serve those with special needs, and the sale of “Blessings Bracelets” and other jewelry created by Kelly Neville, a young women with Down Syndrome who has started her own company, “Special Sparkle.” All are welcome to come and learn more about Grace’s ministry to those with special needs and how we can all rejoice in their unique and valuable gifts. Grace Church is located at 300 E. Gartner Road in Naperville; contact nicole.zaccaria@peopleofgrace.org for further information. Submit your Special Needs News to editorial@glancermagazine.com #SpecialNeedsNews #February2016

SPECIAL NEEDS NEWS | February 2016

Featuring all things positive and inspiring for members of our community with disabilities and special needs, along with their families....

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INSIDE THIS ISSUE Welcome to February– this month we’re celebrating all things ♥LOVE♥. As you turn the pages you will enjoy reading west suburban stories about dating, marriage and more. We even touch on February home decor! Unlike other holidays, I don’t go too overboard on decorating the house for Valentine’s Day, but I have a few favorites. The girls and I love covering the front windows with red hearts and we place vintage candy dishes around the house filled with candy hearts. On the 14th, they each get a gift bag filled with favorites that they love, and even I get something special – which is a real treat considering that my husband is not quite the hopeless romantic (lol). Even so, he definitely knows how to make the day special. So, whatever your Valentine’s Day traditions are, we hope your month is filled with all things ♥LOVE♥! Enjoy & thanks for reading. Lindy Kleivo, Publisher / Editor Celebrating 15 Years In West Suburban Publishing A West Suburban Focus, Featuring Local Faces & Places

EDITOR'S NOTE | February 2016

INSIDE THIS ISSUE Welcome to February– this month we’re celebrating all things ♥LOVE♥. As you turn the pages you will enjoy reading west...

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