Q. In a time when school’s are facing unique situations, what can we do to teach our children to remain calm during a soft lockdown? On Jan. 14, the children of Kaneland Harter Middle School experienced a “hold in place” measure in response to a serious threat posted on social media. The procedure differed from a hard lockdown, where children are asked to be still, or even hide in a room during the emergency. The “hold in place” lasted about two hours as students were confined to their classrooms, only allowed to leave for bathroom breaks, parental dismissal or to retrieve their lunch. The situation was handled skillfully. Parents were kept informed and the principal, Sugar Grove police department and the Kane County Sheriff should be commended for how quickly they defused the situation. During the event, Kane County Sheriff Sergeant Ron Hain went in uniform to several classrooms to speak to as many children as possible. He told them calmly that the “hold in place” was a precaution because of a student’s unfortunate actions. “I saw a lot of scared looks on the children’s faces, that perhaps could have been avoided through redirection,” he said. As a former school counselor on the crisis team, I know firsthand that such a situation is anxiety-producing and nerve-wracking not only for the children, but for the staff as well. Redirecting the children is a good strategy to distract them from their worry but it is also scientifically proven to help alleviate the harmful emotional and physiological effects of stress, especially when the redirection involves physical movement. It’s common knowledge that when humans face danger, they typically exhibit the “fight or flight” reaction. However, when a danger seems so overwhelmingly hopeless that there is no chance of survival, we may freeze, like the deer in the headlights. Especially for children in a big, scary world, freezing is often the adaptation of choice, which allows them to dissociate from the trauma and protect their emotional state. A 1989 study by van der Kolk and van der Hart showed that dissociation or “freezing” in wake of an event is a precursor to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), along with phobias, panic attacks, obsessive-compulsive behaviors and various anxieties that may be traced to a “freeze” state that never had the chance to “let go” or “thaw out”. When we are voluntarily asked to “freeze”, or mimic the freeze response when we are physiologically ready to flee or fight, we cannot benefit from dissociating from the event. Instead, our body’s heart rate races, our muscles tense, etc. in preparation for the fight or flight. If we can’t do either, our levels of cortisol, the “stress hormone” that regulates our body for the response, builds up within us. Without a release, the cortisol can wreak havoc on our minds and bodies. During the “hold in place” the children could have released their high levels of cortisol through breathing exercises or light stretching. This would have reduced some of their physiological reactions to their natural “fight or flight” response. Breathing is a known relaxant, from managing pain during childbirth to handling cases of shocking news. Psychological experiments have proven it as well. A recent study of nurses from the University of New Mexico Hospital with positive PTSD symptoms were asked to participate in 16 sessions of 60-minute mind body intervention (MBX) sessions led by a trained instructor over a 8-week period. The program consisted of stretching, balancing and breathing with a focus on mindfulness. The group was asked to attend to their breathing, concentrating on inhalation, retention and exhalation. At the end of the program, the MBX group showed significant reduction in PTSD symptoms, serum cortisol and “improved sleep, stress resilience, energy levels, better emotional regulation under stress, and resumption of pleasurable activities that they had previously discontinued”. So in a “hold in place” measure, could children have a protocol of physical movement to release their cortisol and calm themselves? Kaneland Superintendent Todd Leden said it could be something to try in the future. “As a district, we are always looking at new safety procedures and researching new strategies to manage emergency situations in the best interest of the children,” he said. “The district would possibly consider this type of program for our students and staff after more details have been gathered.” THIS ARTICLE APPEARED IN THE MOST RECENT ISSUE OF GLANCER MAGAZINE ask an expert Jada Hudson (M.S., LCPC), is a licensed clinical counselor and owner of Hudson Clinical Counseling who has helped individuals heal, grow and live for more than 20 years. Jada counsels individuals like firefighters who have experienced occupational stress and trauma, as well as women, children and adolescents struggling to manage life’s transitions or emotional challenges. Jada employs client-centered therapy, which means clients take an active role in employing strategies for healing. She creates a safe, non-judgmental, and open experience to guide clients to resolution or adaptation to their life challenges. Most insurance accepted. Three suburban locations:  102 S Washington, 2nd Floor, Hindsdale, 630-815-3735; 263 Main St., Sugar Grove, 630-815-3735; 1333 Burr Ridge Pkwy, Suite 253 Burr Ridge, 630-815-3735; www.hudsonclinicalcounseling.com

WELCOME MARCH IN NAPERVILLE – March madness is upon us! In my house that means two things. One, blindly fill out a college basketball tournament bracket and dream about what I’ll do with all my winnings. Two, I begin the spring cleaning process of sorting, tossing and re-evaluating every living space in our house. Trust me, it quickly turns into madness. This year a sorta-major renovation is being planned for our home. My goal is to make our home work for our evolving family. Tweens that need their own space and parents that need better utilized space. First things first, look to organize. Clear out the clutter, load up the truck and head to the Goodwill Donation Center (539 Fort Hill Dr). It’ll do your heart good. There are also many online garage sale sites these days to try and sell your outgrown toys, flower pots, dressers and dresses. Try www.bookoo.com (Naperville Yard Sales) or the app OfferUp and you may make enough for some new clutter! Once everything is cleared out, time to focus on what you NEED. For some inspiration, timeless classics, and hometown customer service take a walk around Beidelman Furniture (239 S. Washington St.) in downtown Naperville. Now, be careful, you may want to redo every room in your home when you walk through their doors. We’re (sorta) done with yogurt spills on the couch and Goldfish between every cushion. A walk through a lovely furniture store makes me yearn for shiny furniture and plush chairs to sink into. Have a few hours to wander for treasure? Head to Affordable Antiques & More (1508 N. Naper Blvd.). This store is not for the faint of heart. Walk the various vendor stalls and find one-of-a-kind pieces for your home. Skip the cookie cutter baskets and bins for vintage crates and metal baskets. Have a piece in your home worthy of a facelift? Affordable Antiques is your go-to place for chalk paint and all its possibilities. Whether you’re looking for new, old, inspiration or validation, Naperville has what your home needs. Clean out those closets and enjoy March Madness as we toy with warmer temps and get teased by Spring. Because as soon as the sun shines and the ground thaws we’ll ditch those cluttered cabinets for our gardens in a heartbeat. ABOUT THE WRITER Katie Manker of Naperville is a wife, small business owner, sister, daughter and friend, but first and foremost she’s Mom to her red-headed mafia. You’ll find her driving the activities bus by day, and laughing and enjoying her family and friends by night. Katie’s chosen charity to receive complimentary promotion as part of our Modern Housewives program is Sgt. Tommys Kids. Learn more at www.sgttommyskids.org #ModernHousewives

NEW MEANING TO MARCH MADNESS IN DOWNERS GROVE – I am ready for March Madness. And not the basketball tournament. This always feels like the longest month of the year to me. Winter is not quite over and Spring seems like weeks away. My motto continues to be the days are long, but the years are short. I think I heard that on an AT&T commercial once. One thing many of us have to look forward to this month is Spring Break. For years when we went on vacation we left our sixth family member, Zippy, in the good hands of Doggie Depot located at 635 Rogers Street in Downers Grove. Brian and Colleen, the owners, have built an incredible place for dogs to come and play for daycare or overnight “camp” as we like to call it. If you are headed out this break, be sure to check them out for your furry friend. I remember seeing the band Sixteen Candles at when I was a youngin’ living downtown. The long wait is over to see them again. The Education Foundation of Downers Grove District 58 is hosting its annual spring concert, ‘80s Night with Sixteen Candles, at the Tivoli Theater on Thursday, March 10 at 7:30pm. General Admission tickets can be purchased for $35 at www.58foundation.org/16candles. All proceeds from the show will benefit the Education Foundation programs. Like, totally awesome. Interested in joining a pool this summer and doing some research on these gloomy days? Check out The Downers Grove Swim and Racquet Club at www.dgsrc.net. We have been members for the last five years and this pool has become a daily ritual for us all summer long. They offer swim and tennis lessons and teams, but honestly I just like it due to the proximity as well as safety. We have outgrown the baby pool (finally), but the pool is manageable to watch multiple kids at once. Doors open Memorial Day. Swing by and check it out. Call me Captain Obvious, but there is only one place to head to on St. Patrick’s Day- Ballydoyle Irish Pub in downtown Downers Grove. Doors open at 8am for Kegs and Eggs followed by several bands and acts including the McNulty Irish Dancers. Admittedly, I have never made it to the Kegs and Eggs portion, but I have been able to swing by for lunch the last few years and been able to partake in some Irish Cheer. ABOUT THE WRITER Anne Healy has lived in Downers Grove for the last eight years with her husband Tom and three children. Beyond attempting to find the latest local fun spots for Glancer Magazine readers, you can find Anne coaching soccer, teaching Junior Achievement within District 58, or telling her three kids to “slow down”. Anne’s chosen charity to receive complimentary promotion as part of our Modern Housewives program is Hopes Front Door. The organization helps countless individuals and their families in Downers Grove and neighboring communities by providing emergency assistance to those in need. This summer, the organization sponsored a Backpack Drive for students in the area enabling hundreds of students to start this school year with supplies they need. www.hopesfrontdoor.com. #ModernHousewives

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

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

Kate Hudson Book Signing • Saturday, February 20 Kate Hudson is an instantly recognizable face and personality who can now add author to her impressive list of accomplishments. Anderson's Bookshops is thrilled to welcome her to Naperville to celebrate the release of her new book "Pretty Happy." In "Pretty Happy," Kate shows how she honors her relationship with herself through exercise, making the right choices about what she eats, and constantly going back to the drawing board and starting fresh, instead of holding herself to unrealistic standards of perfection and giving up when she falls short. Wentz Hall on the campus of North Central College, 171 E Chicago Ave, Naperville. For seating and ticket information visit www.andersonsbookshop.com/event/kate-hudson Valentine’s Day Dance at Arrowhead In Wheaton Thursday, February 11 Bring your sweetheart for dinner and dancing at Arrowhead’s elegant clubhouse to celebrate in style. Gourmet dinner includes tomato bisque soup, your choice of 1) 6-oz. filet of top sirloin, 2) champagne chicken, or 3) vegetarian pasta, plus whipped potatoes, sautéed vegetables, chef’s special Valentine dessert, and of course, champagne to toast. Music will feature vocalist Sandi Haynes performing hits from the 1950s to today, including Elvis, Sinatra, the Beatles, and Jimmy Buffet. Age 21 & over. Class # 118160-01. www.wheatonparkdistrict.com The World International Festival at North Central College • Sunday, February 14 The 20th Annual, "Around the Corner, Around the World," International Festival will be held 12pm-4pm. Enjoy ethnic dance performances, language immersion rooms, cultural booth exhibits and concessions with international cuisine. The Festival is our fund raiser for scholarships money for both study abroad and international students. North Central College's Office of International Programs (OIP) and US Bank are co-sponsoring the event held at the college's Merner Field House, 450 South Brainard Street, Naperville. Tickets: $6 at the door. www.northcentralcollege.edu Naper Jaycees Mardi Gras Bids For Beads • February 19 Enjoy a live band, Cajun food, a silent and live auction. The annual Mardi Gras fundraiser benefits a variety of DuPage County Charities. White Eagle Golf Club, Club Drive, Naperville at 7pm. www.naperjaycees.org Hooking Up With The Second City • Saturday, February 13 The best date night show in town returns due to popular demand to celebrate Valentine's Day. Chicago's favorite comedy group brings this special relationship revue that makes mirth out of missed connections and all the crazy things we do for love. Join the cast for a champagne toast following the show. Mature language is used in this show. Curtain at 6 and 9 p.m. $46/ticket. McAninch Arts Center at College of DuPage, 425 Fawell Blvd., Glen Ellyn, www.atthemac.org Beauty Palooza, Downtown Glen Ellyn • Tuesday, February 16 Come enjoy a day of pampering in Downtown Glen Ellyn. The salons are excited to showcase their best employees, services and products. This is your chance to try something new! Maybe you'll choose the wow brow, or perhaps the massage sampler. These cold months take a toll on hair and skin, so a bang trim with a sugar hand scrub/hot wax treatment might be just the trick to evoke your smile. Choose from appointments lasting 10 to 60 minutes, each offered at special promotional pricing. Bring your friends! Combine your day of beauty with shopping and lunch. Downtown Glen Ellyn has so much to offer. 9am-6pm. www.downtownglenellyn.org Hairspray at Paramount Theater • Through February 21 Tracy Turnblad is a plus-size teen with plus-size hair, and she has one big plus-size dream – to dance her way onto Baltimore’s smash hit TV show, “The Corny Collins Show.” Find out if her dream comes true in this award-winning musical based on the John Waters hit movie. The high-octane ride with thrilling choreography, rockin’ tunes and explosively colorful costumes – plus some really cool hairdos reminds us of the importance of individuality and the acceptance of one another: a wonderful message to share with everyone. Rated PG. Parental guidance suggested. Some material may not be suitable for children. www.paramountaurora.com St. Charles Restaurant Week • February 22-26 Where restaurants throughout St. Charles make room at their tables for an extraordinary price. Bring your discount card, copy of the card, or display the ad on your electronic device to any of the participants and save 20% off your total bill. Min.$20 pre-tax required-excludes alcohol. www.stcharlesil.gov/restaurant-week Special Exhibit “Symbolism in Chinese Jade” • Opening February 23 The Museum’s permanent collection of jade carvings is filled with auspicious Chinese symbolism. This exhibit focuses on a selection of carvings from the Qing Dynasty and translates the hidden meanings in their visual motifs. The Lizzadro Museum in Elmhurst displays gemstone treasures, antiques to modern with a blending of earth science exhibits. The building itself is designed to resemble a jewel box in a park setting. www.lizzadromuseum.org Indoor Farmer's Market In St. Charles • Fridays In February This indoor Farmers' Market is every Friday through May is held from 9am-noon. Located on the main floor inside the church. Market includes locally raised and produced food products, bakery goods and artisan crafts. Baker Methodist Church, East Main at 4th Ave., St. Charles www.bakermemorialchurch.org SAVE THE DATE! Kane County Flea Market • March 5 "The Best in the Midwest or Anywhere" --Up to 1,000 dealers display and sell antiques, collectibles, & Fancy Junque. A country breakfast is served on Sundays. Kane County Fairgrounds, 525 S. Randall Road St. Charles, Sat 12-5p. Sun 2p. Admission:$5 adults, children 12 or younger free. www.kanecountyfleamarket.com Spring Style Weekend Downtown Naperville • March 5-6 Your chance to preview the latest in spring fashion from over 100 Downtown Naperville shops. Attend the fashion shows, discover spring sales, embrace the colors of the season & mingle with fashion-minded friends. Shop at more than 100 stores including J. Crew, Sephora, lululemon, Banana Republic, Evereve, and bevello. 3 full days of fashion, food and fun for ladies of all ages. www.downtownnaperville.com

SHOWCASING DELICIOUS RESTAURANTS Leap into Naperville for the 3rd annual Restaurant Week. Starting February 15th through the 29th – YES, IT’S A LEAP YEAR! Naperville Restaurant Week will showcase delicious restaurants throughout Naperville. Sample something new or discover an old favorite! See the participating restaurants, menus and specials at www.dinenaperville.com . #Naperville #February2016

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

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

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

DATING FAVORITES, FIND OUT WHERE THEY LOVE TO GO HOT SPOT IN NAPERVILLE.... “We love double dating in the suburbs with Mike and Bonnie Bowers (our friends who also live in Naperville). It's great to share stories which helps us realize that we are not alone with life's challenges. Mike and Bonnie have kids the same age as ours; we all have common interests, so it’s a lot of fun! One of our favorite places is Sullivan's Steakhouse in Naperville. They have the best bar in town for our age group with great ambiance, friendly bartenders and of course, tasty beverages. We love the live piano!” -Dana & Ed Kubiak, Naperville A GLEN ELLYN FAVORITE.... “No contest - our favorite date night is Fire + Wine in Glen Ellyn. We've happily lived here for over 4 years with our three young children after moving from the city. Fire + Wine is the best Glen Ellyn restaurant in every way. Michael & Anthony Vai are wonderful hosts, and the entire staff offers excellent service. Nate makes the best lemon basil martinis (fig martinis are excellent, too!) We've been regulars since it opened over 2 years ago, but our favorites include their mussels & hanger steak. We are lifetime diners at Fire + Wine and are grateful to live minutes away!” -Art & Tina Michaels, Glen Ellyn WE LOVE DATE NIGHT IN THE SUBURBS.... “We’ve been married 15 years and love dating in the suburbs because it’s very convenient. Since our oldest child is 14, that gives us the ability to go and enjoy a phenomenal dinner while knowing that our kids are safe and near. We recently headed out to Hugo's Frog Bar & Fish House in Naperville. It has great service and an outstanding atmosphere; plus they have excellent steaks and sides big enough to share! Future dates will include places like Morton's & Sullivans in Naperville, Capital Grille in Lombard, and Tuscany & Gibsons in Oakbrook– all favorites of ours.” -Katia & Nadim Elkareh, Naperville TRYING NEW PLACES IS WHAT WE DO BEST.... “My husband and I take our Date Nights pretty seriously. We love to mix it up and try new places. We just celebrated our 10 year anniversary at Meson Sabika in Naperville and had a great time!” -Elizabeth Gigler-Czerkies & Jeff Czerkies PIZZA IT IS.... “Josh lives four hours away, and when he comes to visit, our mutual love of pizza makes Pie Five in Naperville our go-to date spot. It's the perfect place to get delicious, customized pizza, with friendly staff and a quiet atmosphere that's great for dates.” –Amanda Fowler #February2016

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