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<channel><title><![CDATA[Without Limits Team Galaxy - News Blog]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/news-blog]]></link><description><![CDATA[News Blog]]></description><pubDate>Thu, 16 Apr 2026 22:51:56 -0500</pubDate><generator>Weebly</generator><item><title><![CDATA[Newsletter - April 7, 2026]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/news-blog/april-07th-2026]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/news-blog/april-07th-2026#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Tue, 07 Apr 2026 12:19:59 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/news-blog/april-07th-2026</guid><description><![CDATA[&#128197; Schedule at a Glance&#127934; Tennis Begins &ndash; April 14&#127939; Athletics &ndash; In Progress (Thursdays)&#9917; Soccer &ndash; In Progress (Saturdays)&#9971; Golf Begins &ndash; May 7 (NEW!)&#129648; Dance Recital &ndash; May 29&#127917; Theater Playbill Deadline &ndash; May 15&#9971; SPECIAL OLYMPICS GOLF &ndash; STARTING MAY 7We are excited to launch our WLTG Golf Program!Practice Details:&#128197; Thursdays starting May 7&#9200; 6:00 &ndash; 7:00 PM&#128205; Orchards Golf Cou [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph"><span><font size="4">&#128197; <strong>Schedule at a Glance</strong></font></span><ul><li>&#127934; Tennis Begins &ndash; April 14</li><li>&#127939; Athletics &ndash; In Progress (Thursdays)</li><li>&#9917; Soccer &ndash; In Progress (Saturdays)</li><li>&#9971; <strong>Golf Begins &ndash; May 7 (NEW!)</strong></li><li>&#129648; Dance Recital &ndash; May 29</li><li>&#127917; Theater Playbill Deadline &ndash; May 15</li></ul><br /><span><font size="4">&#9971; </font><strong><font size="4">SPECIAL OLYMPICS GOLF &ndash; STARTING MAY 7</font></strong></span><br />We are excited to launch our <strong>WLTG Golf Program!</strong><br /><strong>Practice Details:</strong><ul><li>&#128197; Thursdays starting <strong>May 7</strong></li><li>&#9200; 6:00 &ndash; 7:00 PM</li><li>&#128205; <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/c73pkgzeggAMqEdN7" target="_blank">Orchards Golf Course</a><br />1499 Golf Course Dr<br />Belleville, IL 62220</li></ul> <strong>Coach:</strong> Jeff Elder<br />&#128591; <strong>Special Thanks:</strong><ul><li>PGA Professional <strong>Dan Polites</strong> for coaching support</li><li><a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/c73pkgzeggAMqEdN7" target="_blank">Orchards Golf Course</a> for donating facilities and range balls</li></ul> &#128222; <strong>Contact:</strong><ul><li>Jeff Elder</li><li>&#128231; <a>elderjk@aol.com</a></li><li>&#128241; 314-780-1696</li></ul><br /><span><font size="4">&#127934; <strong>TENNIS &ndash; STARTING APRIL 14</strong></font></span><ul><li>&#128197; Tuesdays</li><li>&#9200; 6:00 &ndash; 7:00 PM</li><li>&#128205; Mascoutah High School</li><li>&#128104;&zwj;&#127979; Coach: Scott Simon</li></ul><br /><span><font size="4">&#127939; <strong>ATHLETICS &ndash; UPDATED SCHEDULE</strong></font></span><ul><li>&#128197; Thursdays</li><li>&#9200; 6:00 &ndash; 7:00 PM</li><li>&#128205; <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/QUTFCdUNMgR2CKcE6" target="_blank">Mascoutah Middle School</a></li><li>&#128104;&zwj;&#127979; Coach: Torrance (TJ) Grant</li></ul><br /><span><font size="4">&#9917; <strong>SOCCER &ndash; IN PROGRESS</strong></font></span><ul><li>&#128197; Saturdays</li><li>&#9200; 9:00 &ndash; 10:00 AM</li><li>&#128205; Swansea Moose Lodge</li><li>&#128104;&zwj;&#127979; Coach: Mike Hirst</li></ul><br /><span><font size="4">&#129648; </font><strong><font size="4">DANCE PROGRAM UPDATES</font></strong></span><br /><span>&#127917; <strong>Dance Recital</strong></span><ul><li>&#128197; Friday, May 29</li><li>&#128205; <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/o6CBJB8DYayFBPV3A" target="_blank">Mascoutah High School</a></li><li>&#128178; Recital Fee: $50</li></ul> &#128087; Costume Info (Tap Class &ndash; Tuesdays 6 PM)<ul><li>Black shirt, black pants/leggings, vest, tap shoes</li><li>Vests ordered through <strong>Stars R Us</strong><ul><li>Child: $36 | Adult: $40 | Plus: $45</li></ul></li></ul><br /><span><font size="4">&#127917; </font><strong><font size="4">THEATER PROGRAM &ndash; SHREK THE MUSICAL KIDS</font></strong></span><br /><span>&#128204; <strong>IMPORTANT &ndash; PLAYBILL DEADLINE</strong></span><ul><li>&#128197; <strong>May 15</strong></li><li>Submit cast bios here:<br />&#128073; <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScyX1UN_C_NL9iIuW9JbOdJZvSrfe0WztqyRDFXdO3ZrYtclA/viewform" target="_new">https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScyX1UN_C_NL9iIuW9JbOdJZvSrfe0WztqyRDFXdO3ZrYtclA/viewform</a></li></ul><br /><span><font size="4">&#128227; </font><strong><font size="4">NEW &ndash; PLAYBILL &ldquo;SHOUT OUTS&rdquo;</font></strong></span><br />Support your performer with a special message!<ul><li>Full Page: $35</li><li>Half Page: $20</li><li>Quarter Page: $10</li></ul> &#128073; Details:<br /><a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1I6Sz6A-S5v1bqMdqRh1fXPILoy_s7cGcm4KEm3RuhVw/edit" target="_new">https://docs.google.com/document/d/1I6Sz6A-S5v1bqMdqRh1fXPILoy_s7cGcm4KEm3RuhVw/edit</a><br /><br /><span>&#127916; <strong>UPCOMING REHEARSALS</strong></span><ul><li><strong>May 2</strong> &ndash; Scene 7</li><li><strong>May 9</strong> &ndash; Scene 8 &amp; Finale (All Cast)</li><li><strong>June 6</strong> &ndash; Story of My Life</li><li><strong>June 20 &amp; June 27</strong> &ndash; Full Cast</li></ul><br /><span><font size="4">&#127757; </font><strong><font size="4">COMMUNITY EVENT</font></strong></span><br /><a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/millstadt-village-park/millstadt-autism-walk-2026/868030145866903/" target="_blank">&#128153; Millstadt Autism Walk</a><ul><li>&#128197; April 18, 2026</li><li>Theme: <em>It&rsquo;s a Small World</em></li><li>Volunteers needed to represent cultures</li></ul> &#128233; Contact Kelly to participate<br /><br /><span><font size="4">&#127872; </font><strong><font size="4">GYMNASTICS &amp; YOUNG ATHLETES</font></strong></span><br />&#129336; Artistic Gymnastics<ul><li>Saturdays at 8:00 AM</li><li>World Class Gymnastics</li></ul> &#127872; Rhythmic Gymnastics<ul><li>Sundays at 10:30 AM</li><li>Stealth Cheer Gym</li></ul> &#128118; Young Athletes (Ages 2&ndash;7)<ul><li>Sundays 10:30 &ndash; 11:15 AM</li><li>World Class Gymnastics</li></ul><br /><span><font size="4">&#128227; <strong>IMPORTANT REMINDERS</strong></font></span><ul><li>&#10004; Update athlete availability in TeamSnap</li><li>&#10004; Ensure medical forms are current</li><li>&#10004; Check email + TeamSnap regularly</li></ul><br /><span><font size="4">&#127758; </font><strong><font size="4">CHEER TEAM &ndash; WORLD STAGE OPPORTUNITY</font></strong></span><br />Our Cheer Team has been invited to represent the <strong>USA at the 2026 ICU World Championships (Orlando)</strong> &#127482;&#127480;<br />We are actively seeking sponsors to help support:<ul><li>Travel</li><li>Training</li><li>Uniforms</li></ul> &#128233; Contact:<ul><li>Nicole Fuehne &ndash; <a>nfuehne@gmail.com</a></li><li>Lisa Elbe &ndash; <a>withoutlimitssocheer@gmail.com</a></li></ul><br /><span><font size="4">&#129648; <strong>POWER OF DANCE &ndash; VENUE CHANGE<br />&#8203;</strong></font></span><strong>Important Update:</strong><br />The Power of Dance competition has been moved to a new location.<br />&#128205; <strong>New Venue:</strong><br />Clayton High School<br />1 Mark Twain Cir<br />Clayton, MO 63105<br />&#10145;&#65039; The event has been relocated from Wydown Middle School to Clayton High School.<br />&#10145;&#65039; <strong>All schedules and performance times remain the same.</strong><br />Thank you for your flexibility, and we look forward to an amazing event! &#128131;&#10024;<br /><br /><font size="4">&#8203;</font><span><font size="4">&#127775; </font><strong><font size="4">GET INVOLVED &ndash; MONTHLY OPPORTUNITIES</font></strong></span><br />At Without Limits &ndash; Team Galaxy, we believe everyone has a role to play &mdash; <strong>athletes, families, and volunteers alike.</strong><br />With new members joining throughout the year, this is your ongoing invitation to get connected and make an impact.<br /><br /><span>&#129309; <strong>Committees You Can Join Anytime</strong></span><br />We welcome participation year-round across all of our committees:<ul><li>&#127941; <strong>Sports Committee </strong>- <a href="mailto:amandalutz622@gmail.com">Amanda Lutz</a><br />Supports all athletic programs &mdash; scheduling, coaching coordination, competitions, and athlete development.</li><li>&#127917; <strong>Arts (Dance &amp; Theater) Committee - </strong><a href="mailto:jotero@nursingspecialties.org">Jennifer Ashley Otero</a><br />Oversees dance, theater productions, recitals, and creative programming opportunities for athletes.</li><li>&#128591; <strong>Cosmic Christians / Heavenly Helpers</strong><strong>Leads:</strong> Lisa Elbe &amp; Leslie Koth<br />&#128231; <a>withoutLimitsSOCheer@gmail.com</a> | <a>lkkoth@gmail.com</a><br />&#128197; Meeting Schedule: TBD<br />Focuses on faith-based connection, encouragement, and service opportunities.</li><li>&#128227; <strong>Cheer Committee</strong><ul><li><strong>Lead:</strong><span> Lisa Elbe</span><br /><span>&#128231; </span><a>WithoutLimitsSOCheer@gmail.com</a><br /><span>&#128197; </span><strong>Next Meeting:</strong><span> Sunday, May 3 &ndash; 12:15 PM</span><br /><span>&#128205; World Class Gymnastics</span><br /><span>&#128467; Meets quarterly (Jan, Apr, July, Sept) after Game Day practice</span><br />Supports cheer programming, competitions, fundraising, and team spirit initiatives.</li></ul></li><li>&#11088; <strong>Community Service Stars</strong><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;-&nbsp;</strong><a href="mailto:harper.bonnie@gmail.com">Bonnie Harper</a><br />Plans and organizes service projects that allow athletes to give back and engage with the community.</li><li>&#128737; <strong>Guardians of the Galaxy - </strong><a href="mailto:harper.bonnie@gmail.com">Bonnie Harper</a><br />Provides support for events, athlete needs, and special initiatives &mdash; helping ensure no one is left behind.</li><li>&#128101; <strong>Member Leadership Team</strong><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;-&nbsp;</strong><a href="mailto:Lisa.Elbe5@gmail.com">Lisa Elby</a><strong>Leads:</strong> Wendy Pfeil &amp; Lisa Elbe<br />&#128231; <a>wendybear85@gmail.com</a> | <a>WithoutLimitsSOCheer@gmail.com</a><br />&#128197; <strong>Next Meeting:</strong> May 6 &ndash; 6:30 PM<br />&#128205; Swansea Moose Lodge<br />&#128467; Meets monthly (Wednesday before Fun Nights)<br />Empowers athletes and members to develop leadership skills and help shape team decisions.</li><li>&#128188; <strong>Finance Committee - </strong><a href="mailto:robert.lutz10@gmail.com">Bob Lutz</a><br />Oversees budgeting, fundraising strategy, financial planning, and ensures responsible stewardship of WLTG resources.</li><li>&#8203;<span>&#127881; <strong>Fun Night Committee</strong></span><span></span><br />Plans and organizes social events and Fun Nights that bring our athletes and families together.</li><li><span>&#127942; <strong>Banquet Committee</strong></span><span></span><br />Coordinates end-of-season banquets, celebrations, and recognition events.</li><li><span>&#128131; <strong>Prom Committee</strong></span><span></span><br />Plans and executes our annual WLTG Prom &mdash; creating a memorable and inclusive experience for all participants.</li></ul>&#8203;No experience needed &mdash; just a willingness to contribute and be part of something bigger.<br /><br /><span>&#128197; <strong>What&rsquo;s Coming Up</strong></span><br />Each month may include opportunities such as:<ul><li>Committee meetings</li><li>Volunteer events</li><li>Community service projects</li><li>Fun Nights &amp; social events</li></ul> &#128227; <strong>Watch this section each month for new opportunities and updates.</strong><br /><br /><span>&#128161; <strong>Why Get Involved</strong></span><ul><li>Build friendships and strengthen our community</li><li>Support athletes beyond practices and competitions</li><li>Help shape programs, events, and future growth</li><li>Make a meaningful, visible impact</li></ul><br />&#128233; <strong>Ready to jump in?</strong><br />Email us at <strong><a>withoutlimits.teamgalaxy@gmail.com</a></strong> and we&rsquo;ll connect you with the right team or opportunity.<br /><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="4">&#128242;&nbsp;<u><strong>S</strong><strong>tay Connected with Without Limits &ndash; Team Galaxy!</strong></u></font><br />Want the latest updates, event photos, practice changes, and athlete highlights?</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Follow us on social media and never miss a moment!</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Facebook Page WLTG:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxy" target="_blank">@WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxy</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Facebook Group SO Cheer:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/4159251967470571" target="_blank">@WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxySOCheer</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Facebook Group WL-The Arts:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/1523704431426648" target="_blank">@WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxyArts</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Facebook Page WL Dance Co.:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/withoutlimitsdanceco" target="_blank">@WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxyDanceCo</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Facebook Group&nbsp;WL-Parents Group:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/263322554370400" target="_blank">@WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxyParents</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Instagram:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.instagram.com/withoutlimits_teamgalaxy" target="_new">@withoutlimits_teamgalaxy</a><br /><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#127881;&nbsp;Get behind-the-scenes looks, important reminders, and celebrate the incredible achievements of our athletes and volunteers.</span><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="4">&#128085;&nbsp;<u>WLTG Merch Store &ndash; Now Open!</u></font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/merchandise.html">Check out our updated merchandise with the new logo!</a></span></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[March 2026 newsletter]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/news-blog/march-2026-newsletter]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/news-blog/march-2026-newsletter#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Thu, 12 Mar 2026 00:15:11 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/news-blog/march-2026-newsletter</guid><description><![CDATA[Schedule at a Glance (details below)&#128179;&nbsp;Membership Dues for 2026&nbsp;- Due!!!&#8203;&#128202; Finance Committee Meeting (3/24)&nbsp;(see below for details)&#129648;Dance Schedule for March (see below)&nbsp;&#127939; Athletics Practice Wednesdays&nbsp;&nbsp;(see below)&nbsp;&#128178;2026 Membership Fees are Due!!!&#128187;&nbsp;Pay your dues online via Square link&nbsp;A paid membership will be required in 2026 to attend any WLTG sport / cheer / dance / event / activity.&#8203;&#12820 [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph" style="text-align:left;"><u style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><strong><font size="5">Schedule at a Glance (details below)</font></strong></u><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128179;&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/membership.html">Membership Dues for 2026&nbsp;</a><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">- Due!!!</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#8203;&#128202; Finance Committee Meeting (3/24)&nbsp;(see below for details)</span><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="3">&#129648;</font></strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Dance Schedule for March (see below)&nbsp;</span><br />&#127939; Athletics Practice Wednesdays&nbsp;<span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;(see below)&nbsp;</span><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#128178;<u>2026 Membership Fees are Due!!!</u></font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128187;&nbsp;</span><a href="https://checkout.square.site/merchant/MLKJFPTKKPBBW/checkout/EIGSNESKLKAS3WFRXVWWORZ4" target="_blank">Pay your dues online via Square link<span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;</span></a><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font color="#ff0000">A paid membership will be required in 2026 to attend any WLTG sport / cheer / dance / event / activity.</font></strong><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#8203;</font></strong><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#128202; Finance Committee Meeting (March 24th)</font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Join us for the Finance Committee Meeting from&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">6:30 to 8:30 PM</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;via Google Meets.</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">If you&rsquo;re interested in being part of the committee or would like to attend the meeting, please reach out to&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">We look forward to your participation!&nbsp;&nbsp;Bob Lutz at&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><a href="mailto:Robert.Lutz10@gmail.com" target="_blank">Robert.Lutz10@gmail.com</a></strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">.</span><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#8203;&#128250; TEAM GALAXY IN THE SPOTLIGHT!</font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">We are excited to share some incredible news!</span><ul><li><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><a href="https://www.thebreesejournal.com/main-news/15393-polar-plunge-2026-dogs-cows-and-everything-in-between" target="_blank">The Breese Journal highlights our Jamal in their latest article.&nbsp;&nbsp;</a></span></li><li><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Out of all the ambassadors in&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Region J</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">,&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Jamal</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;was personally handpicked by Tim Stempel to be interviewed on&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><a href="https://www.ksdk.com/" target="_blank">KSDK Channel 5</a></strong></li></ul> <strong><font style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#8203;</font><br /><font size="5">&#127939; Athletics Practice</font></strong><br />Athletics practice has been added to the weekly schedule!<br />&#128197; <strong>Wednesdays</strong><br />&#9200; <strong>6:00 &ndash; 7:00 PM</strong><br />&#128205; <strong>Mascoutah Middle School</strong><br />All athletes interested in track and field events are welcome to join. We look forward to seeing everyone there!<br /><br /><font size="5" style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#129416;&nbsp;<u><strong>2026 WLTG Sharks Swim Teams!</strong></u></font><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Season Schedule</strong><ul style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><li><strong>Regional Event&nbsp;Swim&nbsp;Meet&nbsp;</strong>- March 28th - Saturday (8:30AM)&nbsp;@&nbsp;<a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/AFtpwLckewr5wShi9" target="_blank">Edwardsville High School&nbsp;Pool&nbsp;Facility</a>&nbsp;(same as last year)</li><li><strong>Summer Games - State Meet</strong>&nbsp;- TBD mid June -&nbsp;@ Bloomington&nbsp;/ Normal</li></ul> <span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><strong>Swim Suit Ordering</strong><br />Delivery dates will be March 10-12th.&nbsp; If you want suit by regional ORDER NOW!</span><br /><a href="https://www.agonswim.com/teams/139499" target="_blank">https://www.agonswim.com/teams/139499</a><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;-&#8203; Order Form&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Let&rsquo;s make waves this season, Sharks! &#128153;&#127946;&zwj;&#9794;&#65039;</span><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#129648;&nbsp;<u>Dance Class Schedule</u></font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Sign up for solo / duet / trio for March, leading up to the competition in April - <a href="https://signup.com/go/srSDhTx" target="_blank">SignUp Today</a></span><br /><br /><font size="5">&#8203;&#128131; Dance Recital Announcement!</font><br />Mark your calendars! Our <strong>Without Limits &ndash; Team Galaxy Dance Recital</strong> is coming up soon.<br />&#128197; <strong>Friday, May 29, 2026</strong><br />&#128341; <strong>6:00 PM</strong> <em>(Time may change slightly, but it will remain an evening performance)</em><br />&#128205; <strong>Mascoutah High School</strong><br />Performance Details<ul><li><strong>Tuesday Dance Class</strong> will perform a <strong>Tap routine</strong> <em>(costume information coming soon)</em></li><li><strong>Monday Competition Team</strong> will also perform their competition dance</li><li><strong>Solos and Duets</strong> are welcome to participate &mdash; please let us know <strong>ASAP</strong> if you are interested</li></ul> If your dancer <strong>will NOT be participating</strong>, please notify us as soon as possible.<br />Recital Fees&#128178; <strong>$50 per dancer</strong><br />&#10004; Includes a <strong>Recital T-shirt</strong><br />&#128197; <strong>Fees are due by April 15</strong><br /><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/dance-payments.html">Please pay <strong>Without Limits</strong> the same way you pay your monthly dance fees.</a><br /><br /><font size="5" style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#8203;&#128204;&nbsp;</font><u style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><strong><font size="5">SO Cheers - Friendly Reminders as We Head Into 2026</font></strong></u><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">As we prepare for an exciting new year, we have a few important reminders for parents and guardians:</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">1&#65039;&#8419;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Please update your athlete&rsquo;s availability in TeamSnap</strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">This information is extremely important for&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Coach Lisa</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;when planning practices and activities.</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">2&#65039;&#8419;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Renew your athlete&rsquo;s medical information in the Athlete Portal</strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Keeping this up to date ensures eligibility and safety for all programs.</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">3&#65039;&#8419;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Check your email and TeamSnap chats regularly</strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Important updates, schedule changes, and reminders are shared through these channels.</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Thank you for your continued support and partnership.</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10024;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Here&rsquo;s to a wonderful and successful 2026 with WLTG!</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;&#10024;</span><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#127758; HELP OUR DREAM TEAM REPRESENT THE USA!</font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">We&rsquo;re looking for&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">sponsors with heart.</strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Our&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Without Limits Special Olympics Cheer Team</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;has been given an extraordinary opportunity to represent the&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">United States on the world stage</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;at the 2026 ICU World Cheerleading Championships in Orlando.</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">This once-in-a-lifetime moment celebrates the hard work, courage, and unstoppable spirit of our athletes. But getting there comes with significant travel, training, and uniform expenses &mdash; and we need our community&rsquo;s support to make this dream possible.</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">We are seeking sponsors who believe in&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">inclusion, opportunity, and empowering incredible athletes to shine.</strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">If you know of a company or individual who may be interested in helping our Dream Team get to Orlando, your generosity would mean the world.</span><br /><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10024;&nbsp;<a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/without-limits-cheer-sponsorships.html#/" target="_blank">Sponsorship opportunities range from Sparkle Sponsor to Champion Sponsor levels</a>.</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10024; Donations of&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">any amount</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;are greatly appreciated.</span><br /><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128233; To learn how you can make a meaningful impact, contact:</span><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Nicole Fuehne</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;&ndash;&nbsp;</span><a>nfuehne@gmail.com</a><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Lisa Elbe</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;&ndash;&nbsp;</span><a href="mailto:withoutlimitssocheer@gmail.com">withoutlimitssocheer@gmail.com</a><br /><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/without-limits-cheer-sponsorships.html#/" target="_blank">Visit our webpage here</a><br /><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#11088;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">NOTE:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;Our first&nbsp;</span><em style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Sparkle Sponsor</em><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;has already been confirmed &mdash; more details coming soon!</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Let&rsquo;s rally together and show the world what&nbsp;</span><em style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Without Limits &ndash; Team Galaxy</em><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;is all about. &#128171;</span><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#127757;&#128153; 2026 Millstadt Autism Walk - It&rsquo;s a Small World &#128153;</font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#127757;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Date:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;Saturday, April 18, 2026</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Join us for the 2026 Millstadt Autism Walk, themed "It&rsquo;s a Small World," inspired by the message of unity and empathy from Disney. This year&rsquo;s walk celebrates our shared humanity, reminding us that no matter our differences, we are all connected.</span><br /><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Participants will journey through various cultures, engaging all senses along the route. The focus is on celebration, learning, and togetherness, highlighting the strength of our close-knit Millstadt community.</span><br /><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10024;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Volunteers Needed!</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;&#10024;</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">We&rsquo;re looking for volunteers to represent different countries or regions. Whether it's through d&eacute;cor, music, movement, or sensory-friendly elements, your contributions can help bring cultures to life in a joyful way.</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">So far, we have a local family excited to showcase Middle Eastern culture, and we aim to include areas like Holland, England, Ireland, France, Germany, Italy, and more!</span><br /><br /><a href="mailto:kellydemond79@gmail.com">If you&rsquo;re interested in helping, please reach out to Kelly</a><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">. Together, we can make this walk a beautiful celebration of community and connection. Let&rsquo;s hope for a sunny April day &#127774; because we all share the same sky!<br /><br /><strong><font size="5">&#8203;</font></strong></span><strong><font size="5">&#127891; <u>Madison County Transition Fair &ndash; Save the Date!</u></font></strong><br />Families and athletes planning for the future won&rsquo;t want to miss this opportunity.<br />&#128197; <strong>Thursday, March 12, 2026</strong><br />&#128338; <strong>3:30 PM &ndash; 7:30 PM (Open House)</strong><br />&#128205; <strong>Lewis &amp; Clark Community College &ndash; Hatheway Cultural Center</strong><br />5800 Godfrey Road, Godfrey, IL<br />The <strong>Madison County Transition Planning Committee</strong> is hosting their annual <strong>Transition Fair</strong>, providing an opportunity to meet with local agencies that support individuals with disabilities and help families plan for a successful transition after high school.<br />Special Presentations<ul><li><strong>Guardianship</strong> &ndash; 4:00 PM</li><li><strong>Residential Options</strong> &ndash; 5:00 PM</li><li><strong>Employment Opportunities</strong> &ndash; 6:00 PM</li></ul> This event is <strong>FREE to attend</strong> and is especially helpful for families currently in the <strong>Transition Planning phase of their education journey</strong>.<br /><br /><font size="5">&#8203;&#129379; <strong>Thank You for Supporting Team Galaxy!</strong></font><br />A big <strong>thank you to everyone who came out to the luncheon and enjoyed some soup while supporting our athletes!</strong><br />Special thanks to <strong>Susie Tipton</strong> for stepping in to help serve soup so we could take a quick break &mdash; your help was greatly appreciated.<br />We also want to recognize those who <strong>purchased bracelets and supported the cause even if they couldn&rsquo;t attend</strong>. Your generosity truly means a lot and reflects what our community is all about.<br />Our team was proud to be <strong>one of 35 soups featured at the event</strong>, while also sharing information about <strong>Without Limits &ndash; Team Galaxy and our Special Olympics Cheer program</strong>.<br />Thank you again for supporting our athletes and helping spread the word about our mission! &#128171;<br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#127936;&nbsp;Basketball!</font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">The 2025&ndash;2026 basketball season practices will be held at:</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128205;&nbsp;</span><em style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">First Presbyterian Church, 1303 Royal Heights Rd, Belleville</em><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128341;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Skills Team:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;Monday at 6:00-7:00 PM</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128103;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Girls Teams:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;Thursday 6:00&ndash;8:00 PM</span><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#127936;&nbsp;</font></strong><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">State Basketball--March 13-15--Bloomington, IL</font></strong><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Friday, March 13, 2026&nbsp;</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><ul style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><li>9:30am &ndash; 5:00pm Team Competition for Female Teams, Junior Teams &amp; High School Teams &ndash; Horton Field House &amp; Shirk Center &nbsp;</li><li>*Team competition for Female and Junior Divisions will be played on Friday, March 13th only. Some High School Divisions may finish on Saturday morning.</li></ul> <strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Saturday, March 14, 2026</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;</span><ul style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><li>11:00am &ndash; 2:00pm Individual Skills Competition Registration &ndash; Normal Community High School&nbsp;</li></ul> <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/LPYbWcuUM9aFSoALA" target="_blank">Illinois State University Horton Field House&nbsp; / Main &amp; College Avenue / Normal, IL&nbsp;</a><br /><a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/emJhE8oyzQVpc17i6" target="_blank">Normal Community High School / 3900 E Raab Rd / Normal, IL 61761&nbsp;</a><br /><a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/wTxzP3S1MQrToP9v6" target="_blank">Illinois Wesleyan University Shirk Center / 302 E. Emerson / Bloomington, IL&nbsp;&nbsp;&#8203;</a><br /><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><strong><font size="5">&#8203;</font></strong></span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#9917;&#65039; Soccer!</font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Soccer practice starts on February 17th from 6:30 to 7:30PM on Tuesday.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128205;&nbsp;</span><em style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">First United Presbyterian Church, 1303 Royal Heights Rd, Belleville</em><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Get ready to kick off a great season&mdash;sign up today!&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><a href="mailto:withoutlimits.teamgalaxy@gmail.com" target="_blank">withoutlimits.teamgalaxy@gmail.com</a><br /><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><strong><font size="5">&#8203;</font></strong></span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#129336;&zwj;&#9794;&#65039; Artistic Gymnastics Team!</font></strong><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">When:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;</span><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Saturdays at 8:00 AM</span><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Where:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;</span><a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/Jqjx6e2VY8pHh47B7" target="_blank">World Class Gymnastics</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Artistic Gymnastics has begun, and we invite all levels&mdash;both male and female&mdash;to join our team! Whether you're a beginner or an experienced gymnast, there's a place for you to shine. Come flip, tumble, and have fun with us!</span><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#127872; Rhythmic Gymnastics Now Open!</font></strong><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">When:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;Practice this week&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">-&nbsp;</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Sundays at 10:30 AM</span><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Where:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;</span><a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/BCyxPiqgTWYgC2gU6" target="_blank">Stealth Cheer Gym</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Rhythmic Gymnastics has also started! Join us on Sundays to explore this beautiful blend of dance and gymnastics. All skill levels are welcome&mdash;come express yourself and learn new skills!</span><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#127881;&nbsp;Young Athletes Program</font></strong><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Time:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;</span><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp; Sundays 10:30 - 11:15 AM</span><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Location:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;World Class Gymnastics</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">This program is designed for children ages 2-7 years old, with and without intellectual disabilities. We focus on developing motor, social, emotional, and learning skills through fun sports activities.</span><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Sign up by email:&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong><a href="mailto:withoutlimits.teamgalaxy@gmail.com" target="_blank">withoutlimits.teamgalaxy@gmail.com</a><br /><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#128242;&nbsp;<u><strong>S</strong><strong>tay Connected with Without Limits &ndash; Team Galaxy!</strong></u></font><br />Want the latest updates, event photos, practice changes, and athlete highlights?</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Follow us on social media and never miss a moment!</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Facebook Page WLTG:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxy" target="_blank">@WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxy</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Facebook Group SO Cheer:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/4159251967470571" target="_blank">@WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxySOCheer</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Facebook Group WL-The Arts:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/1523704431426648" target="_blank">@WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxyArts</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Facebook Page WL Dance Co.:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/withoutlimitsdanceco" target="_blank">@WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxyDanceCo</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Facebook Group&nbsp;WL-Parents Group:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/263322554370400" target="_blank">@WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxyParents</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Instagram:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.instagram.com/withoutlimits_teamgalaxy" target="_new">@withoutlimits_teamgalaxy</a><br /><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#127881;&nbsp;Get behind-the-scenes looks, important reminders, and celebrate the incredible achievements of our athletes and volunteers.</span><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#128085;&nbsp;<u>WLTG Merch Store &ndash; Now Open!</u></font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/merchandise.html">Check out our updated merchandise with the new logo!</a></span></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[February 17, 2026 newsletter]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/news-blog/february-17-2026-newsletter]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/news-blog/february-17-2026-newsletter#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Tue, 17 Feb 2026 12:32:15 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/news-blog/february-17-2026-newsletter</guid><description><![CDATA[Schedule at a Glance (details below)&#128179;&nbsp;Membership Dues for 2026&nbsp;- Due!!!&#8203;&#128202; Finance Committee Meeting (3/3)&nbsp;(see below for details)&#129416;Swimming Season 2026&nbsp;- Practice every Sunday (see below for details)&#127936;Basketball Practice this week!&nbsp; (see below for details)&#9917;&#65039; Soccer Practice starts February 17th!&nbsp; (see details below)&#10060; No&nbsp;Rhythmic Gymnastics - Practice this week!&nbsp;&#129648;Dance Schedule for February (se [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph"><br /><u style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><strong><font size="5">Schedule at a Glance (details below)</font></strong></u><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128179;&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/membership.html">Membership Dues for 2026&nbsp;</a><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">- Due!!!</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#8203;&#128202; Finance Committee Meeting (3/3)&nbsp;(see below for details)</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#129416;</span><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/swimming.html">Swimming Season 2026</a><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;- Practice every Sunday (see below for details)</span><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="3">&#127936;</font></strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Basketball Practice this week!&nbsp; (see below for details)</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#9917;&#65039; Soccer Practice starts February 17th!&nbsp; (see details below)</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10060; No&nbsp;</span><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Rhythmic Gymnastics - Practice this week!&nbsp;</span><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="3">&#129648;</font></strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Dance Schedule for February (see below)&nbsp;</span><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#128178;<u>2026 Membership Fees are Due!!!</u></font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128187;&nbsp;</span><a href="https://checkout.square.site/merchant/MLKJFPTKKPBBW/checkout/EIGSNESKLKAS3WFRXVWWORZ4" target="_blank">Pay your dues online via Square link<span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;</span></a><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font color="#ff0000">A paid membership will be required in 2026 to attend any WLTG sport / cheer / dance / event / activity.</font></strong><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#8203;</font></strong><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#128202; Finance Committee Meeting (March 24th)</font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Join us for the Finance Committee Meeting from&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">6:30 to 8:30 PM</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;via Google Meets.</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">If you&rsquo;re interested in being part of the committee or would like to attend the meeting, please reach out to&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">We look forward to your participation!&nbsp;&nbsp;Bob Lutz at&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><a href="mailto:Robert.Lutz10@gmail.com" target="_blank">Robert.Lutz10@gmail.com</a></strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">.</span><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#8203;&#128250; TEAM GALAXY IN THE SPOTLIGHT!</font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">We are excited to share some incredible news!</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Out of all the ambassadors in&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Region J</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">,&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Jamal</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;was personally handpicked by Tim Stempel to be interviewed on&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><a href="https://www.ksdk.com/" target="_blank">KSDK Channel 5</a></strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;this Wednesday morning at&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">8:00 AM</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">!</span><br /><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Jamal will be representing the&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Polar Plunge</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">, with Tim joining him for the segment. What an amazing honor &mdash; and a proud moment for Team Galaxy!</span><br /><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Be sure to tune in and support Jamal as he shines on the big stage! &#127775;</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Congratulations, Jamal &mdash; we are so proud of you! &#128153;<br /><br /><font size="5">&#129482;&nbsp;</font></span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">Want to Join the Polar Plunge at Carlyle Lake?</font><br />&#8203;</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Registration is open through&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Special Olympics Illinois</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;and is easy to complete:</span><ol style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><li>Visit the&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://plungeillinois.com/" target="_blank">Special Olympics Illinois Polar Plunge</a></strong>&nbsp;website</li><li>Select&nbsp;<strong>Carlyle Lake</strong>&nbsp;as your plunge location</li><li>Create or join a team (or plunge as an individual)</li><li>Start fundraising and get ready to take the plunge!</li></ol> <span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128205;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Plunge Location:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;</span><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Carlyle Lake</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128197;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Event Timing:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;February 2026 (exact date to be announced)</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Whether you plunge, fundraise, or cheer from the sidelines, your participation helps support year-round Special Olympics programs for athletes across Illinois.</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128153;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Congratulations again, Jamal &mdash; and let&rsquo;s make Carlyle Lake a big splash in 2026!</strong><br /><br /><font size="5" style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#8203;&#129416;&nbsp;<u><strong>2026 WLTG Sharks Swim Teams!</strong></u></font><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">The&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">2026 Swimming Season</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;has begun!&nbsp; &mdash; running&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">January through May.&nbsp;<br /><font color="#ff0000">Registration is closed due to capacity / safety limitations.&nbsp;</font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128205;&nbsp;</span><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Location of Swimming Pool is:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZHyp1w8UkjgegFFC9" target="_blank">Collinsville / Maryville / Troy YMCA</a><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">.</span><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Schedule</strong><ul style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><li><strong>Development</strong>&nbsp;group will have the&nbsp;pool&nbsp;from 3PM to 4PM</li><li><strong>Competitive</strong>&nbsp;group will have the&nbsp;pool&nbsp;from 4PM to 5PM</li></ul> <strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Season Schedule</strong><ul style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><li><strong>Regional Event&nbsp;Swim&nbsp;Meet&nbsp;</strong>- March 28th - Saturday (8:30AM)&nbsp;@ <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/AFtpwLckewr5wShi9" target="_blank">Edwardsville High School&nbsp;Pool&nbsp;Facility</a> (same as last year)</li><li><strong>Summer Games - State Meet</strong>&nbsp;- TBD mid June -&nbsp;@ Bloomington&nbsp;/ Normal</li></ul> <span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><strong>Swim Suit Ordering</strong><br />Delivery dates will be March 10-12th.&nbsp; If you want suit by regional ORDER NOW!<br />Fit Kits will be available at Practice for the next two practices.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><br /><a href="https://www.agonswim.com/teams/139499" target="_blank">https://www.agonswim.com/teams/139499</a><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;-&#8203; Order Form&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Let&rsquo;s make waves this season, Sharks! &#128153;&#127946;&zwj;&#9794;&#65039;</span><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#129648;&nbsp;<u>Dance Class Schedule</u></font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">February dance schedule</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">For bright stars and shining stars on Tuesdays:</span>&#8203;<ul style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><li><strong>2/17 Classes Canceled</strong></li><li>2/24 ballet/tap</li></ul><br /><font size="5" style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#8203;&#128204;&nbsp;</font><u style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><strong><font size="5">SO Cheers - Friendly Reminders as We Head Into 2026</font></strong></u><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">As we prepare for an exciting new year, we have a few important reminders for parents and guardians:</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">1&#65039;&#8419;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Please update your athlete&rsquo;s availability in TeamSnap</strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">This information is extremely important for&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Coach Lisa</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;when planning practices and activities.</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">2&#65039;&#8419;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Renew your athlete&rsquo;s medical information in the Athlete Portal</strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Keeping this up to date ensures eligibility and safety for all programs.</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">3&#65039;&#8419;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Check your email and TeamSnap chats regularly</strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Important updates, schedule changes, and reminders are shared through these channels.</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Thank you for your continued support and partnership.</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10024;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Here&rsquo;s to a wonderful and successful 2026 with WLTG!</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;&#10024;</span><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#127758; HELP OUR DREAM TEAM REPRESENT THE USA!</font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">We&rsquo;re looking for&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">sponsors with heart.</strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Our&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Without Limits Special Olympics Cheer Team</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;has been given an extraordinary opportunity to represent the&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">United States on the world stage</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;at the 2026 ICU World Cheerleading Championships in Orlando.</span><br /><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">This once-in-a-lifetime moment celebrates the hard work, courage, and unstoppable spirit of our athletes. But getting there comes with significant travel, training, and uniform expenses &mdash; and we need our community&rsquo;s support to make this dream possible.</span><br /><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">We are seeking sponsors who believe in&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">inclusion, opportunity, and empowering incredible athletes to shine.</strong><br /><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">If you know of a company or individual who may be interested in helping our Dream Team get to Orlando, your generosity would mean the world.</span><br /><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10024; <a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/without-limits-cheer-sponsorships.html#/" target="_blank">Sponsorship opportunities range from Sparkle Sponsor to Champion Sponsor levels</a>.</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10024; Donations of&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">any amount</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;are greatly appreciated.</span><br /><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128233; To learn how you can make a meaningful impact, contact:</span><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Nicole Fuehne</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;&ndash;&nbsp;</span><a>nfuehne@gmail.com</a><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Lisa Elbe</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;&ndash;&nbsp;</span><a href="mailto:withoutlimitssocheer@gmail.com">withoutlimitssocheer@gmail.com</a><br /><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/without-limits-cheer-sponsorships.html#/" target="_blank">Visit our webpage here</a><br /><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#11088;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">NOTE:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;Our first&nbsp;</span><em style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Sparkle Sponsor</em><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;has already been confirmed &mdash; more details coming soon!</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Let&rsquo;s rally together and show the world what&nbsp;</span><em style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Without Limits &ndash; Team Galaxy</em><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;is all about. &#128171;</span><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#127757;&#128153; 2026 Millstadt Autism Walk - It&rsquo;s a Small World &#128153;</font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#127757;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Date:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;Saturday, April 18, 2026</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Join us for the 2026 Millstadt Autism Walk, themed "It&rsquo;s a Small World," inspired by the message of unity and empathy from Disney. This year&rsquo;s walk celebrates our shared humanity, reminding us that no matter our differences, we are all connected.</span><br /><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Participants will journey through various cultures, engaging all senses along the route. The focus is on celebration, learning, and togetherness, highlighting the strength of our close-knit Millstadt community.</span><br /><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10024;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Volunteers Needed!</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;&#10024;</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">We&rsquo;re looking for volunteers to represent different countries or regions. Whether it's through d&eacute;cor, music, movement, or sensory-friendly elements, your contributions can help bring cultures to life in a joyful way.</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">So far, we have a local family excited to showcase Middle Eastern culture, and we aim to include areas like Holland, England, Ireland, France, Germany, Italy, and more!</span><br /><br /><a href="mailto:kellydemond79@gmail.com">If you&rsquo;re interested in helping, please reach out to Kelly</a><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">. Together, we can make this walk a beautiful celebration of community and connection. Let&rsquo;s hope for a sunny April day &#127774; because we all share the same sky!</span><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#127936;&nbsp;Basketball!</font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">The 2025&ndash;2026 basketball season practices will be held at:</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128205;&nbsp;</span><em style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">First Presbyterian Church, 1303 Royal Heights Rd, Belleville</em><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128341;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Skills Team:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;Monday at 6:00-7:00 PM</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128103;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Girls Teams:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;Thursday 6:00&ndash;8:00 PM</span><br /><br /><strong></strong><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#127936;&nbsp;</font></strong><strong><font size="5">State Basketball--March 13-15--Bloomington, IL</font></strong><br /><strong>Friday, March 13, 2026&nbsp;</strong>&nbsp;&nbsp;<ul><li>9:30am &ndash; 5:00pm Team Competition for Female Teams, Junior Teams &amp; High School Teams &ndash; Horton Field House &amp; Shirk Center &nbsp;</li><li>*Team competition for Female and Junior Divisions will be played on Friday, March 13th only. Some High School Divisions may finish on Saturday morning.</li></ul><strong>Saturday, March 14, 2026</strong>&nbsp;<ul><li>11:00am &ndash; 2:00pm Individual Skills Competition Registration &ndash; Normal Community High School&nbsp;</li></ul><a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/LPYbWcuUM9aFSoALA" target="_blank">Illinois State University Horton Field House&nbsp; / Main &amp; College Avenue / Normal, IL&nbsp;</a><br /><a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/emJhE8oyzQVpc17i6" target="_blank">Normal Community High School / 3900 E Raab Rd / Normal, IL 61761&nbsp;</a><br /><a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/wTxzP3S1MQrToP9v6" target="_blank">Illinois Wesleyan University Shirk Center / 302 E. Emerson / Bloomington, IL&nbsp;&nbsp;&#8203;</a><br /><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><strong><font size="5">&#8203;</font></strong></span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#9917;&#65039; Soccer!</font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Soccer practice starts on February 17th from 6:30 to 7:30PM on Tuesday.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128205;&nbsp;</span><em style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">First United Presbyterian Church, 1303 Royal Heights Rd, Belleville</em><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Get ready to kick off a great season&mdash;sign up today!&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><a href="mailto:withoutlimits.teamgalaxy@gmail.com" target="_blank">withoutlimits.teamgalaxy@gmail.com</a><br /><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><strong><font size="5">&#8203;</font></strong></span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#129336;&zwj;&#9794;&#65039; Artistic Gymnastics Team!</font></strong><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">When:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;</span><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Saturdays at 8:00 AM</span><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Where:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;</span><a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/Jqjx6e2VY8pHh47B7" target="_blank">World Class Gymnastics</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Artistic Gymnastics has begun, and we invite all levels&mdash;both male and female&mdash;to join our team! Whether you're a beginner or an experienced gymnast, there's a place for you to shine. Come flip, tumble, and have fun with us!</span><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#127872; Rhythmic Gymnastics Now Open!</font></strong><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">When:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;Practice this week&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">-&nbsp;</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Sundays at 10:30 AM</span><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Where:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;</span><a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/BCyxPiqgTWYgC2gU6" target="_blank">Stealth Cheer Gym</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Rhythmic Gymnastics has also started! Join us on Sundays to explore this beautiful blend of dance and gymnastics. All skill levels are welcome&mdash;come express yourself and learn new skills!</span><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#127881;&nbsp;Young Athletes Program</font></strong><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Time:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;</span><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp; Sundays 10:30 - 11:15 AM</span><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Location:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;World Class Gymnastics</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">This program is designed for children ages 2-7 years old, with and without intellectual disabilities. We focus on developing motor, social, emotional, and learning skills through fun sports activities.</span><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Sign up by email:&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong><a href="mailto:withoutlimits.teamgalaxy@gmail.com" target="_blank">withoutlimits.teamgalaxy@gmail.com</a><br /><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#128242;&nbsp;<u><strong>S</strong><strong>tay Connected with Without Limits &ndash; Team Galaxy!</strong></u></font><br />Want the latest updates, event photos, practice changes, and athlete highlights?</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Follow us on social media and never miss a moment!</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Facebook Page WLTG:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxy" target="_blank">@WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxy</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Facebook Group SO Cheer:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/4159251967470571" target="_blank">@WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxySOCheer</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Facebook Group WL-The Arts:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/1523704431426648" target="_blank">@WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxyArts</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Facebook Page WL Dance Co.:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/withoutlimitsdanceco" target="_blank">@WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxyDanceCo</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Facebook Group&nbsp;WL-Parents Group:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/263322554370400" target="_blank">@WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxyParents</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Instagram:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.instagram.com/withoutlimits_teamgalaxy" target="_new">@withoutlimits_teamgalaxy</a><br /><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#127881;&nbsp;Get behind-the-scenes looks, important reminders, and celebrate the incredible achievements of our athletes and volunteers.</span><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#128085;&nbsp;<u>WLTG Merch Store &ndash; Now Open!</u></font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/merchandise.html">Check out our updated merchandise with the new logo!</a></span></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[February 2, 2026 newsletter]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/news-blog/february-2-2026-newsletter]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/news-blog/february-2-2026-newsletter#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Mon, 02 Feb 2026 19:00:36 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/news-blog/february-2-2026-newsletter</guid><description><![CDATA[Schedule at a Glance (details below)&#128179;&nbsp;Membership Dues for 2026&nbsp;- Due!!!&#8203;&#128202; Finance Committee Meeting (3/3)&nbsp;(see below for details)&#127881; Fun Night - February 14th (see details below)&#129416;Swimming Season 2026&nbsp;- Practice every Sunday (see below for details)&#127936;Basketball Practice this week!&nbsp; (see below for details)&#9917;&#65039; Soccer Practice starts February 17th!&nbsp; (see details below)&#10060;No Artistic Gymnastics / Cheer Practice o [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph"><br /><u style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><strong><font size="5">Schedule at a Glance (details below)</font></strong></u><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128179;&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/membership.html">Membership Dues for 2026&nbsp;</a><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">- Due!!!</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#8203;&#128202; Finance Committee Meeting (3/3)&nbsp;(see below for details)<br />&#127881; Fun Night - February 14th (see details below)</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#129416;</span><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/swimming.html">Swimming Season 2026</a><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;- Practice every Sunday (see below for details)</span><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="3">&#127936;</font></strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Basketball Practice this week!&nbsp; (see below for details)</span><br />&#9917;&#65039; Soccer Practice starts February 17th!&nbsp; (see details below)<br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10060;<strong>No Artistic Gymnastics / Cheer Practice or Young Athlete this week</strong></span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10060;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">No Shrek Rehearsal this week</strong><br /><font style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><strong>&#8203;</strong>&#10024;</font><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;Cosmic Christians Gathering - February 10 (see below for details)</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#127872; Rhythmic Gymnastics - Practice this week!&nbsp;</span><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="3">&#129648;</font></strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Dance Schedule for February (see below)&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#8203;</span><br /><font size="5" style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128197;<strong>&nbsp;Important Update:<br />Health History Form Requirements Effective January 1, 2026</strong></font><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Starting&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">January 1, 2026</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">, new requirements will be in place for the Health History form. Please pay close attention to the following:</span><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">If any of the below questions are answered YES, a doctor's signature will be required on a generated medical form:</strong><ul style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><li><strong>Has the athlete had a concussion in the last 30 days?</strong><ul><li>(Triggered by the date of concussion question)</li></ul></li><li><strong>Has a doctor ever limited your participation in sports?</strong><ul><li>(Answer &ldquo;Yes&rdquo; only if long-term or ongoing restrictions are in place due to a medical condition. Temporary limitations do not count.)</li><li>If answered &lsquo;yes,&rsquo; an additional checklist item will prompt for details on sports restrictions.</li></ul></li></ul> <strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Actions Required:</strong><ul style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><li><strong>Medical Form Generation</strong>: If any questions trigger a "yes" response, a medical form will be generated and added to the athlete&rsquo;s checklist on their COE profile.</li><li><strong>Approval Process</strong>: Athletes will&nbsp;<strong>not be approved</strong>&nbsp;until the medical form is completed, signed by a doctor, and re-uploaded into the COE.</li></ul> <strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Important Notes:</strong><ul style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><li>This requirement applies&nbsp;<strong>only to new or edited health history forms</strong>&nbsp;submitted after January 1, 2026.</li><li>Previously approved forms will remain unaffected.</li></ul> <span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Stay informed and ensure compliance to keep our athletes safe and healthy!</span><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#128178;<u>2026 Membership Fees are Due!!!</u></font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128187;&nbsp;</span><a href="https://checkout.square.site/merchant/MLKJFPTKKPBBW/checkout/EIGSNESKLKAS3WFRXVWWORZ4" target="_blank">Pay your dues online via Square link<span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;</span></a><br /><strong><font color="#ff0000">A paid membership will be required in 2026 to attend any WLTG sport / cheer / dance / event / activity.</font></strong><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#8203;</font></strong><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#128202; Finance Committee Meeting (March 24th)</font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Join us for the Finance Committee Meeting from&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">6:30 to 8:30 PM</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;via Google Meets.</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">If you&rsquo;re interested in being part of the committee or would like to attend the meeting, please reach out to&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">We look forward to your participation!&nbsp;&nbsp;Bob Lutz at&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><a href="mailto:Robert.Lutz10@gmail.com" target="_blank">Robert.Lutz10@gmail.com</a></strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">.</span><br /><br /><font size="5">&#127881; </font><strong><font size="5">Important Update &mdash; Fun Night Date Change</font></strong><br />Due to another scheduled event at the <strong>Moose Lodge</strong> on <strong>Friday, February 13</strong>, we were concerned there would not be enough parking available for all attendees.&nbsp;&nbsp;<span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">We sincerely apologize to anyone who has already signed up and may no longer be able to attend due to this change.</span><br /><br />As a result,<br /><strong>Fun Night has been moved to the following day</strong>.<br />&#128197; <strong>NEW DATE:</strong> <strong>Saturday, February 14, 2026</strong><br />&#128341; <strong>Time:</strong> 6:00 &ndash; 9:00 PM<br />&#128205; <strong>Location:</strong> Moose Lodge, 2425 North Illinois Street, Swansea<br /><br />&#128276; <strong>Important Registration Note</strong><br />If you <strong>previously registered for Friday</strong> and <strong>can still attend on Saturday</strong>, you <strong>must re-register</strong> to reserve your spot.<br />&#128221; <strong>Register here:</strong><br /><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/february-14-2026-fun-night.html#/" target="_new">https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/february-14-2026-fun-night.html#/</a><br />Thank you for your understanding and flexibility.<br />We hope to see everyone on <strong>Saturday, February 14 from 6&ndash;9 PM</strong> for another great Fun Night!<br /><br />&#8203;&#128250; TEAM GALAXY IN THE SPOTLIGHT!We are excited to share some incredible news!<br /><span></span>Out of all the ambassadors in <strong>Region J</strong>, <strong>Jamal</strong> was personally handpicked by Tim Stempel to be interviewed on <strong>KSDK Channel 5</strong> this Wednesday morning at <strong>8:00 AM</strong>!<br /><span></span>Jamal will be representing the <strong>Polar Plunge</strong>, with Tim joining him for the segment. What an amazing honor &mdash; and a proud moment for Team Galaxy!<br /><span></span>Be sure to tune in and support Jamal as he shines on the big stage! &#127775;<br /><span></span>Congratulations, Jamal &mdash; we are so proud of you! &#128153;<br /><span></span><br /><br /><font size="5" style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#8203;&#129416;&nbsp;<u><strong>2026 WLTG Sharks Swim Teams!</strong></u></font><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">The&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">2026 Swimming Season</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;has begun!&nbsp; &mdash; running&nbsp;</span><strong>January through May.&nbsp;<br /><font color="#ff0000">Registration is closed due to capacity / safety limitations.&nbsp;</font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128205;&nbsp;</span><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Location of Swimming Pool is:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZHyp1w8UkjgegFFC9" target="_blank">Collinsville / Maryville / Troy YMCA</a><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">.</span><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Schedule</strong><ul style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><li><strong>Development</strong>&nbsp;group will have the&nbsp;pool&nbsp;from 3PM to 4PM</li><li><strong>Competitive</strong>&nbsp;group will have the&nbsp;pool&nbsp;from 4PM to 5PM</li></ul> <strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Season Schedule</strong><ul style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><li><strong>Regional Event&nbsp;Swim&nbsp;Meet </strong>- March 28th - Saturday (8:30AM)&nbsp;@ Edwardsville High School&nbsp;Pool&nbsp;Facility (same as last year)</li><li><strong>Summer Games - State Meet</strong> - TBD mid June -&nbsp;@ Bloomington&nbsp;/ Normal</li></ul> <span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><strong>Swim Suit Ordering</strong><br />Delivery dates will be March 10-12th.&nbsp; If you want suit by regional ORDER NOW!<br />Fit Kits will be available at Practice for the next two practices.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><br /><a href="https://www.agonswim.com/teams/139499" target="_blank">https://www.agonswim.com/teams/139499</a><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;-&#8203; Order Form&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Let&rsquo;s make waves this season, Sharks! &#128153;&#127946;&zwj;&#9794;&#65039;</span><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#129648;&nbsp;<u>Dance Class Schedule</u></font></strong><br />February dance schedule<br />For bright stars and shining stars on Tuesdays:<ul><li>2/3 ballet/tap</li><li>2/10 tap/jazz</li><li>2/17 jazz/ hip hop</li><li>2/24 ballet/tap</li></ul><br /><font size="5" style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#8203;&#128204;&nbsp;</font><u style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><strong><font size="5">SO Cheers - Friendly Reminders as We Head Into 2026</font></strong></u><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">As we prepare for an exciting new year, we have a few important reminders for parents and guardians:</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">1&#65039;&#8419;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Please update your athlete&rsquo;s availability in TeamSnap</strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">This information is extremely important for&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Coach Lisa</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;when planning practices and activities.</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">2&#65039;&#8419;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Renew your athlete&rsquo;s medical information in the Athlete Portal</strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Keeping this up to date ensures eligibility and safety for all programs.</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">3&#65039;&#8419;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Check your email and TeamSnap chats regularly</strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Important updates, schedule changes, and reminders are shared through these channels.</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Thank you for your continued support and partnership.</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10024;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Here&rsquo;s to a wonderful and successful 2026 with WLTG!</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;&#10024;</span><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#127757;&#128153; 2026 Millstadt Autism Walk - It&rsquo;s a Small World &#128153;</font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#127757;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Date:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;Saturday, April 18, 2026</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Join us for the 2026 Millstadt Autism Walk, themed "It&rsquo;s a Small World," inspired by the message of unity and empathy from Disney. This year&rsquo;s walk celebrates our shared humanity, reminding us that no matter our differences, we are all connected.</span><br /><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Participants will journey through various cultures, engaging all senses along the route. The focus is on celebration, learning, and togetherness, highlighting the strength of our close-knit Millstadt community.</span><br /><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10024;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Volunteers Needed!</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;&#10024;</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">We&rsquo;re looking for volunteers to represent different countries or regions. Whether it's through d&eacute;cor, music, movement, or sensory-friendly elements, your contributions can help bring cultures to life in a joyful way.</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">So far, we have a local family excited to showcase Middle Eastern culture, and we aim to include areas like Holland, England, Ireland, France, Germany, Italy, and more!</span><br /><br /><a href="mailto:kellydemond79@gmail.com">If you&rsquo;re interested in helping, please reach out to Kelly</a><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">. Together, we can make this walk a beautiful celebration of community and connection. Let&rsquo;s hope for a sunny April day &#127774; because we all share the same sky!</span><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#127936;&nbsp;Basketball!</font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">The 2025&ndash;2026 basketball season practices will be held at:</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128205;&nbsp;</span><em style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">First Presbyterian Church, 1303 Royal Heights Rd, Belleville</em><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128341;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Skills Team:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;Monday at 6:00-7:00 PM</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128103;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Girls Teams:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;Thursday 6:00&ndash;8:00 PM</span><br /><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><strong><font size="5">&#8203;</font></strong></span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#9917;&#65039; Soccer!</font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Looking to start soccer practice on February 17th from 6:30 to 7:30PM on Tuesday.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128205;&nbsp;</span><em style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">First United Presbyterian Church, 1303 Royal Heights Rd, Bellevill</em><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Need Assistance:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;We currently do not have a skills coach, so if anyone is interested in coaching soccer, we&rsquo;d love to hear from you! We already have a head coach on board, but additional support would be fantastic.</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Get ready to kick off a great season&mdash;sign up today!&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><a href="mailto:withoutlimits.teamgalaxy@gmail.com" target="_blank">withoutlimits.teamgalaxy@gmail.com</a><br /><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><strong><font size="5">&#8203;</font></strong></span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#129336;&zwj;&#9794;&#65039; Artistic Gymnastics Team!</font></strong><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">When:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font color="#ff0000">No practice&nbsp;</font></strong><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font color="#ff0000"><strong>t</strong>his week -&nbsp;</font></strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Saturdays at 8:00 AM</span><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Where:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;</span><a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/Jqjx6e2VY8pHh47B7" target="_blank">World Class Gymnastics</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Artistic Gymnastics has begun, and we invite all levels&mdash;both male and female&mdash;to join our team! Whether you're a beginner or an experienced gymnast, there's a place for you to shine. Come flip, tumble, and have fun with us!</span><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#127872; Rhythmic Gymnastics Now Open!</font></strong><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">When:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;Practice this week&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">-&nbsp;</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Sundays at 10:30 AM</span><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Where:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;</span><a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/BCyxPiqgTWYgC2gU6" target="_blank">Stealth Cheer Gym</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Rhythmic Gymnastics has also started! Join us on Sundays to explore this beautiful blend of dance and gymnastics. All skill levels are welcome&mdash;come express yourself and learn new skills!</span><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#127881;&nbsp;Young Athletes Program</font></strong><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Time:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font color="#ff0000">No practice&nbsp;</font></strong><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font color="#ff0000"><strong>t</strong>his week </font></strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;-&nbsp; Sundays 10:30 - 11:15 AM</span><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Location:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;World Class Gymnastics</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">This program is designed for children ages 2-7 years old, with and without intellectual disabilities. We focus on developing motor, social, emotional, and learning skills through fun sports activities.</span><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Sign up by email:&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong><a href="mailto:withoutlimits.teamgalaxy@gmail.com" target="_blank">withoutlimits.teamgalaxy@gmail.com</a><br /><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#129482;&nbsp;</font></span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">Want to Join the Polar Plunge at Carlyle Lake?</font><br />&#8203;</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Registration is open through&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Special Olympics Illinois</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;and is easy to complete:</span><ol style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><li>Visit the&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://plungeillinois.com/" target="_blank">Special Olympics Illinois Polar Plunge</a></strong>&nbsp;website</li><li>Select&nbsp;<strong>Carlyle Lake</strong>&nbsp;as your plunge location</li><li>Create or join a team (or plunge as an individual)</li><li>Start fundraising and get ready to take the plunge!</li></ol> <span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128205;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Plunge Location:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;</span><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Carlyle Lake</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128197;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Event Timing:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;February 2026 (exact date to be announced)</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Whether you plunge, fundraise, or cheer from the sidelines, your participation helps support year-round Special Olympics programs for athletes across Illinois.</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128153;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Congratulations again, Jamal &mdash; and let&rsquo;s make Carlyle Lake a big splash in 2026!</strong><br /><br /><font size="5" style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/contact-us.html">&#8203;</a>&#127881;&nbsp;<strong>Milestone Achievement: WLTG is officially a 501(c)(3) Nonprofit!</strong></font><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">We are proud and excited to announce that&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Without Limits &ndash; Team Galaxy (WLTG) has officially received IRS 501(c)(3) nonprofit certification</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">.</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">This designation is a major milestone for our organization.&nbsp;</span><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#8203;</font></strong><font size="5" style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10024;&nbsp;</font><u style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><strong><font size="5">Cosmic Christians Gathering</font></strong></u><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Join us for&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Cosmic Christians</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;on</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128197;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Tuesday, February 10</strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128353;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">6:30 to 7:30PM</strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128231; For more information or questions, please email:&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">withoutlimits-teamgalaxy@gmail.com</strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">WE have members who have formed a Christian based group who meets monthly.&nbsp; All are welcome!&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Talking about your faith with friends, games, snacks, fun, community service.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">If there are any members interested in starting any other faith / spiritual based groups, please&nbsp;</span><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">email:&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">withoutlimits-teamgalaxy@gmail.com</strong><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#8203;&#127867; Join Us for the 3rd Annual Polar Pub Crawl! &#10052;&#65039;</font></strong><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Date:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;February 7, 2026</span><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Location:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;Downtown O'Fallon, IL</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Get ready to have fun for a great cause at our 3rd Annual Polar Pub Crawl, benefiting the incredible athletes of Special Olympics Illinois Region J! Join us as we support local businesses and raise a glass to our athletes, with&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">100% of proceeds</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;going directly to help athletes with intellectual disabilities compete in their favorite sports and develop friendships and life skills&mdash;at no cost to their families.</span><ul style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><li>Click here to register:&nbsp;<a href="https://support.soill.org/.../2026-tr-polar-pub.../e745545" target="_blank">Register Now!</a></li></ul> <span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Please remember to designate a sober driver or use a ride-share service if you choose to drink. Check the attached link and flyer for full details.</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Let&rsquo;s crawl for a cause and make a difference together!</span><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#128587;&zwj;&#9792;&#65039;&nbsp;WANTED!!! COACHES NEEDED!</font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">We&rsquo;re looking for passionate, energetic leaders to help our athletes shine this season!</span><ul style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><li>&#10024; Athletics (Track &amp; Field)</li><li>&#10052;&#65039; Cornhole (begins in January)</li></ul> <span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">If you or someone you know is interested in coaching,&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/contact-us.html">please reach out to us</a><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;&mdash; no prior experience required, just a big heart and a desire to make a difference!</span><br /><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/contact-us.html">Contact us today!!!</a><br /><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#128242;&nbsp;<u><strong>S</strong><strong>tay Connected with Without Limits &ndash; Team Galaxy!</strong></u></font><br />Want the latest updates, event photos, practice changes, and athlete highlights?</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Follow us on social media and never miss a moment!</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Facebook Page WLTG:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxy" target="_blank">@WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxy</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Facebook Group SO Cheer:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/4159251967470571" target="_blank">@WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxySOCheer</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Facebook Group WL-The Arts:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/1523704431426648" target="_blank">@WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxyArts</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Facebook Page WL Dance Co.:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/withoutlimitsdanceco" target="_blank">@WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxyDanceCo</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Facebook Group&nbsp;WL-Parents Group:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/263322554370400" target="_blank">@WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxyParents</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Instagram:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.instagram.com/withoutlimits_teamgalaxy" target="_new">@withoutlimits_teamgalaxy</a><br /><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#127881;&nbsp;Get behind-the-scenes looks, important reminders, and celebrate the incredible achievements of our athletes and volunteers.</span><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#128085;&nbsp;<u>WLTG Merch Store &ndash; Now Open!</u></font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/merchandise.html">Check out our updated merchandise with the new logo!</a></span></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[January 20, 2026 Newsletter]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/news-blog/january-20-2026-newsletter]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/news-blog/january-20-2026-newsletter#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Tue, 20 Jan 2026 13:01:50 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/news-blog/january-20-2026-newsletter</guid><description><![CDATA[Schedule at a Glance (details below)&#128179;&nbsp;Membership Dues for 2026&nbsp;- Due in January&#8203;&#128202; Finance Committee Meeting Tonight (1/20)&nbsp;(see below for details)&#129416;Swimming Season 2026&nbsp;- Practice in January 25 (see below for details)&#8203;&#10024;&nbsp;Cosmic Christians Gathering - February 10 (see below for details)&#127936;Basketball Regionals -&nbsp;January 25 (see below for details)&#10060;No Cheer Practice or Young Athlete this week due to Basketball Region [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph" style="text-align:left;"><u style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><strong><font size="5">Schedule at a Glance (details below)</font></strong></u><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128179;&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/membership.html">Membership Dues for 2026&nbsp;</a><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">- Due in January</span><br />&#8203;&#128202; Finance Committee Meeting Tonight (1/20)&nbsp;<span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">(see below for details)</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#129416;</span><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/swimming.html">Swimming Season 2026</a><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;- Practice in January 25 (see below for details)</span><br /><font style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><strong>&#8203;</strong>&#10024;</font><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;Cosmic Christians Gathering - February 10 (see below for details)</span><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="4">&#127936;</font></strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Basketball Regionals -&nbsp;January 25 (see below for details)<br />&#10060;<strong>No Cheer Practice or Young Athlete this week due to Basketball Regionals</strong></span><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="3">&#129336;&zwj;&#9794;&#65039;&nbsp;</font></strong>Artistic Gymnastics -&nbsp;<span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Saturdays at 8:00 AM&nbsp;(see below for details)</span><br />&#127872; Rhythmic Gymnastics - <strong>No practice&nbsp;</strong><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><strong>t</strong>his week due to Basketball Regional</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><br />&#8203;</span><br /><font size="5">&#128197;<strong> Important Update:<br />Health History Form Requirements Effective January 1, 2026</strong></font><br />Starting <strong>January 1, 2026</strong>, new requirements will be in place for the Health History form. Please pay close attention to the following:<br /><strong>If any of the below questions are answered YES, a doctor's signature will be required on a generated medical form:</strong><ul><li><strong>Has the athlete had a concussion in the last 30 days?</strong><ul><li>(Triggered by the date of concussion question)</li></ul></li><li><strong>Has a doctor ever limited your participation in sports?</strong><ul><li>(Answer &ldquo;Yes&rdquo; only if long-term or ongoing restrictions are in place due to a medical condition. Temporary limitations do not count.)</li><li>If answered &lsquo;yes,&rsquo; an additional checklist item will prompt for details on sports restrictions.</li></ul></li></ul> <strong>Actions Required:</strong><ul><li><strong>Medical Form Generation</strong>: If any questions trigger a "yes" response, a medical form will be generated and added to the athlete&rsquo;s checklist on their COE profile.</li><li><strong>Approval Process</strong>: Athletes will <strong>not be approved</strong> until the medical form is completed, signed by a doctor, and re-uploaded into the COE.</li></ul> <strong>Important Notes:</strong><ul><li>This requirement applies <strong>only to new or edited health history forms</strong> submitted after January 1, 2026.</li><li>Previously approved forms will remain unaffected.</li></ul> Stay informed and ensure compliance to keep our athletes safe and healthy!<br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#128178;<u>Membership Dues &ndash; January 1st 2026</u></font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128187;&nbsp;</span><a href="https://checkout.square.site/merchant/MLKJFPTKKPBBW/checkout/EIGSNESKLKAS3WFRXVWWORZ4" target="_blank">Pay your dues online via Square link<span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;</span></a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">All members of WLTG are due to pay at the start of the year.&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">A paid membership will be required in 2026 for any sport / event / activity.<br /><br /><strong><font size="5">&#8203;</font></strong></span><strong><font size="5">&#128202; Finance Committee Meeting Tonight (1/20)</font></strong><br />Join us for the Finance Committee Meeting tonight from <strong>6:30 to 8:30 PM</strong> via Google Meets.<br />If you&rsquo;re interested in being part of the committee or would like to attend the meeting, please reach out to Bob Lutz at <strong><a href="mailto:Robert.Lutz10@gmail.com" target="_blank">Robert.Lutz10@gmail.com</a></strong>.<br />We look forward to your participation!<br /><br /><font size="5" style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#129416;&nbsp;<u><strong>2026 WLTG Sharks Swim Teams!</strong></u></font><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">The&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">2026 Swimming Season</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;starts this week&nbsp; &mdash; running&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">January through May.&nbsp; Registration is closed due to capacity / safety limitations.&nbsp;</strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128205;&nbsp;</span><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Location of Swimming Pool is:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZHyp1w8UkjgegFFC9" target="_blank">Collinsville / Maryville / Troy YMCA</a><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">.</span><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Practice Schedule</strong><ul style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><li>First practice for both the Developmental and Competitive groups will be Sunday, January 25th.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Development</strong>&nbsp;group will have the&nbsp;pool&nbsp;from 3PM to 4PM</li><li><strong>Competitive</strong>&nbsp;group will have the&nbsp;pool&nbsp;from 4PM to 5PM</li><li>Please sign in and identify group</li></ul> <strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Competitive Season Schedule</strong><ul style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><li>Regional Event&nbsp;Swim&nbsp;Meet - TBD late March @ Edwardsville High School&nbsp;Pool&nbsp;Facility (same as last year)</li><li>Summer Games - State Meet - TBD mid June -&nbsp;@ Bloomington&nbsp;/ Normal</li></ul> <em style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/join-our-swim-team.html">&#8203;</a></em><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#129416;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Learn More&nbsp; --&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Visit our&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/swimming.html">Swimming Webpage</a></strong><br />Swim Suit Fit Kits will be available at Practice for the next two practices.&nbsp;&nbsp;<br /><a href="https://www.agonswim.com/teams/139499" target="_blank">https://www.agonswim.com/teams/139499</a>&nbsp;-&#8203; Order Form&nbsp;<br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Let&rsquo;s make waves this season, Sharks! &#128153;&#127946;&zwj;&#9794;&#65039;</span><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#129648;&nbsp;<u>Dance Class Schedule</u></font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">See Facebook page for most up-to-date-schedule</span><br /><br /><font size="5" style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#8203;&#128204;&nbsp;</font><u style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><strong><font size="5">SO Cheers - Friendly Reminders as We Head Into 2026</font></strong></u><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">As we prepare for an exciting new year, we have a few important reminders for parents and guardians:</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">1&#65039;&#8419;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Please update your athlete&rsquo;s availability in TeamSnap</strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">This information is extremely important for&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Coach Lisa</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;when planning practices and activities.</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">2&#65039;&#8419;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Renew your athlete&rsquo;s medical information in the Athlete Portal</strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Keeping this up to date ensures eligibility and safety for all programs.</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">3&#65039;&#8419;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Check your email and TeamSnap chats regularly</strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Important updates, schedule changes, and reminders are shared through these channels.</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Thank you for your continued support and partnership.</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10024;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Here&rsquo;s to a wonderful and successful 2026 with WLTG!</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;&#10024;</span><br /><br /><strong><font size="5">&#127917; Theater Group Announcement: Cast List for Shrek: The Musical Kids! &#127881;</font></strong><ul><li>We&rsquo;re excited to share the official cast list for <strong>Shrek: The Musical Kids!</strong> &#129395;</li></ul> <strong>Reminder:</strong>&nbsp; &nbsp;Our rehearsal for the entire cast is this <strong>Saturday, January 17</strong>, from <strong>10:30 to 11:30 AM</strong>. During this initial meeting, we&rsquo;ll cover important protocols and conduct a read-through of the script, which will be distributed at rehearsal.<ul><li>If you have any questions, feel free to reach out! &#128154;</li><li>For the cast list, click here: <a href="https://docs.google.com/.../1Amo6GJ2yi310pPwI3xWC.../edit..." target="_blank"><span>Cast List</span></a></li><li>Let me know if you need any changes!</li></ul><br /><strong><font size="5">&#127757;&#128153; 2026 Millstadt Autism Walk - It&rsquo;s a Small World &#128153;</font></strong><br />&#127757;<strong>Date:</strong> Saturday, April 18, 2026<br />Join us for the 2026 Millstadt Autism Walk, themed "It&rsquo;s a Small World," inspired by the message of unity and empathy from Disney. This year&rsquo;s walk celebrates our shared humanity, reminding us that no matter our differences, we are all connected.<br /><br />Participants will journey through various cultures, engaging all senses along the route. The focus is on celebration, learning, and togetherness, highlighting the strength of our close-knit Millstadt community.<br /><br />&#10024; <strong>Volunteers Needed!</strong> &#10024;<br />We&rsquo;re looking for volunteers to represent different countries or regions. Whether it's through d&eacute;cor, music, movement, or sensory-friendly elements, your contributions can help bring cultures to life in a joyful way.<br />So far, we have a local family excited to showcase Middle Eastern culture, and we aim to include areas like Holland, England, Ireland, France, Germany, Italy, and more!<br /><br /><a href="mailto:kellydemond79@gmail.com">If you&rsquo;re interested in helping, please reach out to Kelly</a>. Together, we can make this walk a beautiful celebration of community and connection. Let&rsquo;s hope for a sunny April day &#127774; because we all share the same sky!<br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#127936;&nbsp;<u>Basketball!</u></font></strong><br /><strong><font color="#ff0000">Good Luck at Regionals this week!</font></strong><br />The 2025&ndash;2026 basketball season practices will be held at:<br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128205;&nbsp;</span><em style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">First Presbyterian Church, 1303 Royal Heights Rd, Belleville</em><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128341;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Skills Team:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;Monday at 6:00 PM</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128342;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Boys Team:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;Monday at 7:00 PM</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128103;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Girls Teams:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;Thursday 6:00&ndash;8:00 PM</span><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Basketball Regionals</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;in Trenton starting at 8AM for Teams and 9AM for Skills<br /><br /><strong><font size="5">&#8203;</font></strong></span><strong><font size="5">&#9917;&#65039; Sign Up for Soccer!</font></strong><br />We&rsquo;re excited to announce that sign-ups are now open for our soccer program! Whether you&rsquo;re interested in joining a team or focusing on skills development, we welcome participants of all levels.<br /><br /><strong>Please Note:</strong> We currently do not have a skills coach, so if anyone is interested in coaching soccer, we&rsquo;d love to hear from you! We already have a head coach on board, but additional support would be fantastic.<br />Get ready to kick off a great season&mdash;sign up today!&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="mailto:withoutlimits.teamgalaxy@gmail.com" target="_blank">withoutlimits.teamgalaxy@gmail.com</a><br /><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><strong><font size="5">&#8203;</font></strong></span><strong><font size="5">&#129336;&zwj;&#9794;&#65039; Join Our Artistic Gymnastics Team!</font></strong><br /><strong>When:</strong> Saturdays at 8:00 AM<br /><strong>Where:</strong> <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/Jqjx6e2VY8pHh47B7" target="_blank">World Class Gymnastics</a><br />Artistic Gymnastics has begun, and we invite all levels&mdash;both male and female&mdash;to join our team! Whether you're a beginner or an experienced gymnast, there's a place for you to shine. Come flip, tumble, and have fun with us!<br /><br /><strong><font size="5">&#127872; Rhythmic Gymnastics Now Open!</font></strong><br /><strong>When:</strong> <strong style=""><font color="#ff0000">No practice&nbsp;</font></strong><strong style=""><font color="#ff0000"><strong style="">t</strong>his week due to Basketball Regional</font> ---&nbsp;</strong>Sundays at 10:30 AM<br /><strong>Where:</strong> <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/BCyxPiqgTWYgC2gU6" target="_blank">Stealth Cheer Gym</a><br />Rhythmic Gymnastics has also started! Join us on Sundays to explore this beautiful blend of dance and gymnastics. All skill levels are welcome&mdash;come express yourself and learn new skills!<br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#127881;&nbsp;Young Athletes Program</font></strong><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Time:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp; </span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font color="#ff0000">No practice&nbsp;</font></strong><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font color="#ff0000"><strong>t</strong>his week due to Basketball Regional</font></strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><strong>&nbsp; </strong>- -&nbsp; Sundays 10:30 - 11:15 AM</span><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Location:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;World Class Gymnastics</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">This program is designed for children ages 2-7 years old, with and without intellectual disabilities. We focus on developing motor, social, emotional, and learning skills through fun sports activities.</span><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Sign up by email:&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong><a href="mailto:withoutlimits.teamgalaxy@gmail.com" target="_blank">withoutlimits.teamgalaxy@gmail.com</a><br /><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#129482;&nbsp;</font></span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">Want to Join the Polar Plunge at Carlyle Lake?</font><br />&#8203;</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Registration is open through&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Special Olympics Illinois</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;and is easy to complete:</span><ol style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><li>Visit the&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://plungeillinois.com/" target="_blank">Special Olympics Illinois Polar Plunge</a></strong>&nbsp;website</li><li>Select&nbsp;<strong>Carlyle Lake</strong>&nbsp;as your plunge location</li><li>Create or join a team (or plunge as an individual)</li><li>Start fundraising and get ready to take the plunge!</li></ol> <span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128205;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Plunge Location:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;</span><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Carlyle Lake</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128197;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Event Timing:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;February 2026 (exact date to be announced)</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Whether you plunge, fundraise, or cheer from the sidelines, your participation helps support year-round Special Olympics programs for athletes across Illinois.</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128153;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Congratulations again, Jamal &mdash; and let&rsquo;s make Carlyle Lake a big splash in 2026!</strong><br /><br /><font size="5" style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/contact-us.html">&#8203;</a>&#127881;&nbsp;<strong>Milestone Achievement: WLTG is officially a 501(c)(3) Nonprofit!</strong></font><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">We are proud and excited to announce that&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Without Limits &ndash; Team Galaxy (WLTG) has officially received IRS 501(c)(3) nonprofit certification</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">.</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">This designation is a major milestone for our organization.&nbsp;</span><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#8203;</font></strong><font size="5" style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10024;&nbsp;</font><u style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><strong><font size="5">Cosmic Christians Gathering</font></strong></u><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Join us for&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Cosmic Christians</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;on</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128197;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Tuesday, February 10</strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128353;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">6:30 to 7:30PM</strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128231; For more information or questions, please email:&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">withoutlimits-teamgalaxy@gmail.com</strong><br />WE have members who have formed a Christian based group who meets monthly.&nbsp; All are welcome!&nbsp;<br />Talking about your faith with friends, games, snacks, fun, community service.&nbsp;&nbsp;<br />If there are any members interested in starting any other faith / spiritual based groups, please <span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">email:&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">withoutlimits-teamgalaxy@gmail.com</strong><br /><br /><strong><font size="5">&#8203;&#127867; Join Us for the 3rd Annual Polar Pub Crawl! &#10052;&#65039;</font></strong><br /><strong>Date:</strong> February 7, 2026<br /><strong>Location:</strong> Downtown O'Fallon, IL<br />Get ready to have fun for a great cause at our 3rd Annual Polar Pub Crawl, benefiting the incredible athletes of Special Olympics Illinois Region J! Join us as we support local businesses and raise a glass to our athletes, with <strong>100% of proceeds</strong> going directly to help athletes with intellectual disabilities compete in their favorite sports and develop friendships and life skills&mdash;at no cost to their families.<ul><li>Click here to register: <a href="https://support.soill.org/.../2026-tr-polar-pub.../e745545" target="_blank"><span>Register Now!</span></a></li></ul> Please remember to designate a sober driver or use a ride-share service if you choose to drink. Check the attached link and flyer for full details.<br />Let&rsquo;s crawl for a cause and make a difference together!<br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#128587;&zwj;&#9792;&#65039;&nbsp;WANTED!!! COACHES NEEDED!</font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">We&rsquo;re looking for passionate, energetic leaders to help our athletes shine this season!</span><ul style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><li>&#10024; Athletics (Track &amp; Field)</li><li>&#10052;&#65039; Cornhole (begins in January)</li></ul> <span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">If you or someone you know is interested in coaching,&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/contact-us.html">please reach out to us</a><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;&mdash; no prior experience required, just a big heart and a desire to make a difference!</span><br /><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/contact-us.html">Contact us today!!!</a><br /><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#128242;&nbsp;<u><strong>S</strong><strong>tay Connected with Without Limits &ndash; Team Galaxy!</strong></u></font><br />Want the latest updates, event photos, practice changes, and athlete highlights?</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Follow us on social media and never miss a moment!</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Facebook Page WLTG:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxy" target="_blank">@WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxy</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Facebook Group SO Cheer:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/4159251967470571" target="_blank">@WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxySOCheer</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Facebook Group WL-The Arts:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/1523704431426648" target="_blank">@WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxyArts</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Facebook Page WL Dance Co.:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/withoutlimitsdanceco" target="_blank">@WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxyDanceCo</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Facebook Group&nbsp;WL-Parents Group:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/263322554370400" target="_blank">@WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxyParents</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Instagram:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.instagram.com/withoutlimits_teamgalaxy" target="_new">@withoutlimits_teamgalaxy</a><br /><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#127881;&nbsp;Get behind-the-scenes looks, important reminders, and celebrate the incredible achievements of our athletes and volunteers.</span><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#128085;&nbsp;<u>WLTG Merch Store &ndash; Now Open!</u></font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/merchandise.html">Check out our updated merchandise with the new logo!</a></span></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[December 29, 2025]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/news-blog/december-29-2025]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/news-blog/december-29-2025#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Tue, 30 Dec 2025 00:38:32 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/news-blog/december-29-2025</guid><description><![CDATA[Schedule at a Glance (details below)&#128179;&nbsp;Membership Dues for 2026&nbsp;- Due in January&#129416;Swimming Season 2026&nbsp;- Meeting / Practice in January (see below for details)&#127846;&nbsp;#ScoopsForSpecialOlympics -&nbsp;Friday, January 9, 2026&nbsp;(see below for details)&#8203;&#10024;&nbsp;Cosmic Christians Gathering - January 13 (see below for details)&#127936;Basketball Regionals -&nbsp;January 25 (see below for details)&#10060;&nbsp;Dance Classes -&nbsp;&nbsp;there will be no [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph"><u><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">Schedule at a Glance (details below)</font></strong></u><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128179;&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/membership.html">Membership Dues for 2026&nbsp;</a><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">- Due in January</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#129416;</span><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/swimming.html">Swimming Season 2026</a><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;- Meeting / Practice in January (see below for details)<br />&#127846;&nbsp;</span>#ScoopsForSpecialOlympics -&nbsp;Friday, January 9, 2026&nbsp;<span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">(see below for details)</span><br /><font size="3"><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#8203;</strong><font style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10024;</font></font>&nbsp;Cosmic Christians Gathering - January 13 (see below for details)<br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="4">&#127936;</font></strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Basketball Regionals -&nbsp;January 25 (see below for details)<br />&#10060;&nbsp;Dance Classes -&nbsp;&nbsp;there will be no classes during the weeks of 12/22 and 12/29</span><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128203;&nbsp;</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">WLTG Member Leader Board Committee Meeting -&nbsp;&nbsp;January 7th @ 6PM</span><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#128178;<u>Membership Dues &ndash; January 1st 2026</u></font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128187;&nbsp;</span><a href="https://checkout.square.site/merchant/MLKJFPTKKPBBW/checkout/EIGSNESKLKAS3WFRXVWWORZ4" target="_blank">Pay your dues online via Square link<span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;</span></a><br />All members of WLTG are due to pay at the start of the year.&nbsp;&nbsp;<br />A paid membership will be required in 2026 for any sport / event / activity.<br /><br /><font size="5" style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#8203;<strong>&#128203; <u>WLTG Member Leader Board Committee Meeting</u></strong></font><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128467;&#65039;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Date:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;Wednesday,&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">January 7th</strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128341;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Time:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;6:00 PM</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128205;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Location:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;Swansea Moose Lodge,&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">1221</strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Join us for an important meeting where we will discuss upcoming initiatives and opportunities for our members. Your participation is crucial!</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">We look forward to seeing you there! &#127881;</span><br /><br /><font size="5" style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#129416;&nbsp;<u><strong>Join the 2026 WLTG Sharks Swim Teams!</strong></u></font><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">The&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">2026 Swimming Season</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;is almost here &mdash; running&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">January through May</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;&mdash; and&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/join-our-swim-team.html">registration is now open!</a><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;Whether your athlete is brand-new to the water or ready for competitive Special Olympics swimming, we have a program designed for their level.</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128205;&nbsp;</span><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Location of Swimming Pool is:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZHyp1w8UkjgegFFC9" target="_blank">Collinsville / Maryville / Troy YMCA</a><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">.</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128187;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Register Today:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;</span><em style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/join-our-swim-team.html">Complete the WLTG Swim Registration Form</a></em><br /><br /><u style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><strong><font size="4">Schedules for 2026 (some changes may happen)</font></strong></u><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Practice Schedule</strong><ul style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><li><u>Mandatory&nbsp;</u>- Parent meeting on January&nbsp;18 evening (virtual - will send invite prior)</li><li>First practice for both the Developmental and Competitive groups will be Sunday, January 25th.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Practices will run from January to May every Sunday at the times below.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Development</strong>&nbsp;group will have the&nbsp;pool&nbsp;from 3PM to 4PM</li><li><strong>Competitive</strong>&nbsp;group will have the&nbsp;pool&nbsp;from 4PM to 5PM</li><li>Please attend your athlete's time so we can focus on each group</li></ul> <strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Competitive Season Schedule</strong><ul style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><li>Regional Event&nbsp;Swim&nbsp;Meet - TBD late March @ Edwardsville High School&nbsp;Pool&nbsp;Facility (same as last year)</li><li>Summer Games - State Meet - TBD mid June -&nbsp;@ Bloomington&nbsp;/ Normal</li></ul> <em style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/join-our-swim-team.html">&#8203;</a></em><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#129416;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Learn More&nbsp; --&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Visit our&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/swimming.html">Swimming Webpage</a></strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;for:</span><ul style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><li>Additional program details</li><li>Eligibility requirements</li><li>Official&nbsp;<em>Shark-Ware</em>&nbsp;merchandise</li></ul> <span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Let&rsquo;s make waves this season, Sharks! &#128153;&#127946;&zwj;&#9794;&#65039;</span><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#129648; <u>Dance Class Schedule</u></font></strong><br />Enjoy the holidays and we'll see you January 5th!<br /><br /><font size="5">&#8203;&#128204; </font><u><strong><font size="5">SO Cheers - Friendly Reminders as We Head Into 2026</font></strong></u><br />As we prepare for an exciting new year, we have a few important reminders for parents and guardians:<br />1&#65039;&#8419; <strong>Please update your athlete&rsquo;s availability in TeamSnap</strong><br />This information is extremely important for <strong>Coach Lisa</strong> when planning practices and activities.<br />2&#65039;&#8419; <strong>Renew your athlete&rsquo;s medical information in the Athlete Portal</strong><br />Keeping this up to date ensures eligibility and safety for all programs.<br />3&#65039;&#8419; <strong>Check your email and TeamSnap chats regularly</strong><br />Important updates, schedule changes, and reminders are shared through these channels.<br />Thank you for your continued support and partnership.<br />&#10024; <strong>Here&rsquo;s to a wonderful and successful 2026 with WLTG!</strong> &#10024;<br /><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#8203;</font></span><font size="5">&#127917; </font><u><strong><font size="5">Important Theater Program Information</font></strong></u><br />The <strong>Without Limits Theater Group</strong> is excited to announce that we will be producing<br /><strong><em>Shrek the Musical &ndash; Kids Edition</em></strong> this season!<br />If you are interested in participating, please <strong>register using the link below</strong>:<br />&#128221; <strong><a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe0_LPVvOncG6ogmezyIbV5mSsFmnUbEedYjndOrQLme9rAZA/viewform" target="_blank">Register Here</a></strong><br /><br />&#127916; <strong>Auditions &amp; Communication</strong><ul><li>Audition materials and sign-ups will be posted on the <strong>Without Limits &ndash; The Arts</strong> Facebook page</li><li>If you are not yet a member of that group, please request to join so you don&rsquo;t miss important updates</li></ul> &#128467;&#65039; <strong>Rehearsal Details</strong><ul><li><strong>When:</strong> Saturdays at <strong>10:30 AM</strong></li><li><strong>Where:</strong> <em>Stars R Us Studio, Mascoutah</em></li><li><strong>First Rehearsal:</strong> <strong>Saturday, January 17</strong><ul><li>This will be an <strong>all-cast rehearsal</strong></li><li>Scripts will be distributed</li><li>Theater expectations and basic rules will be reviewed</li></ul></li></ul> &#128181; <strong>Program Fees</strong><ul><li><strong>$25 one-time fee per participant</strong> for the year</li><li><strong>Family cap:</strong> $50 total for families with more than two participants</li><li>Payment accepted via <strong>Venmo, cash, or check</strong><ul><li>Checks payable to <strong>Without Limits &ndash; Team Galaxy</strong></li></ul></li></ul> &#127903;&#65039; <strong>Performance Details</strong><ul><li><strong>Show date and venue:</strong> <em>To Be Determined</em></li><li>Show will <strong>likely take place in July</strong>, similar to past seasons</li></ul> &#128231; <strong>Questions?</strong><br />Email us at <strong><a>Withoutlimits.teamgalaxy@gmail.com</a></strong><br />We are very excited to kick off another theater season --<br /><strong>let&rsquo;s make this show the best one yet!</strong> &#127926;&#10024;<br /><br /><font size="5">&#8203;&#127846; </font><u><strong><font size="5">FREE EVENT &mdash; Special Olympics Ice Cream Social&nbsp;</font></strong></u><br /><strong>#ScoopsForSpecialOlympics</strong><br />Join us for a fun and informative evening celebrating Special Olympics!<br />&#128197; <strong>Friday, January 9, 2026</strong><br />&#128341; <strong>6:00 PM &ndash; 9:00 PM</strong><br />&#128205; <strong>Moose Lodge</strong><br />2425 North Illinois Street, Swansea, IL 62226<br />Learn more about everything <strong>Special Olympics Illinois</strong> has to offer while enjoying a sweet treat with friends and family!<br />&#128248; <a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/scoops-for-special-olympics.html#/" target="_blank"><strong>Important Reminder</strong>&#9888;&#65039; <strong>You MUST be registered to attend this event.</strong></a><br />This is a <strong>free event</strong>, but registration is required for entry.<br />We hope to see you there for a fun night of ice cream, information, and community! &#127848;&#128153;<br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#127936; <u>Basketball!</u></font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">The 2025&ndash;2026 basketball season practices will be held at:</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128205;&nbsp;</span><em style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">First Presbyterian Church, 1303 Royal Heights Rd, Belleville</em><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128341;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Skills Team:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;Monday at 6:00 PM</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128342;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Boys Team:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;Monday at 7:00 PM</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128103;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Girls Teams:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;Thursday 6:00&ndash;8:00 PM</span><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Basketball Regionals</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;in Trenton starting at 8AM for Teams and 9AM for Skills</span><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#127881; <u>Young Athletes Program</u></font></strong><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Time:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp; Sundays 10:30 - 11:15 AM</span><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Location:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;World Class Gymnastics</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">This program is designed for children ages 2-7 years old, with and without intellectual disabilities. We focus on developing motor, social, emotional, and learning skills through fun sports activities.</span><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Sign up by email:&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong><a href="mailto:withoutlimits.teamgalaxy@gmail.com" target="_blank">withoutlimits.teamgalaxy@gmail.com</a><br /><br /><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/contact-us.html"><font size="5">&#8203;</font></a><font size="5">&#10052;&#65039; </font><u><strong><font size="5">Congratulations, Jamal! + Polar Plunge Sign-Up Info</font></strong></u><br />We are excited to share that <strong>Jamal has been selected as the 2026 Polar Plunge Ambassador</strong> for the <strong>Carlyle Lake location</strong>, taking place this February!<br />This is a tremendous honor and a well-deserved recognition. As an ambassador, Jamal will help represent the courage, excitement, and community spirit that make the Polar Plunge such a powerful fundraiser and celebration for athletes across the state.<br /><br />&#129482; <strong>Want to Join the Polar Plunge at Carlyle Lake?<br />&#8203;</strong>Registration is open through <strong>Special Olympics Illinois</strong> and is easy to complete:<ol><li>Visit the <strong><a href="https://plungeillinois.com/" target="_blank">Special Olympics Illinois Polar Plunge</a></strong> website</li><li>Select <strong>Carlyle Lake</strong> as your plunge location</li><li>Create or join a team (or plunge as an individual)</li><li>Start fundraising and get ready to take the plunge!</li></ol> &#128205; <strong>Plunge Location:</strong> <span>Carlyle Lake</span><br />&#128197; <strong>Event Timing:</strong> February 2026 (exact date to be announced)<br />Whether you plunge, fundraise, or cheer from the sidelines, your participation helps support year-round Special Olympics programs for athletes across Illinois.<br />&#128153; <strong>Congratulations again, Jamal &mdash; and let&rsquo;s make Carlyle Lake a big splash in 2026!</strong><br /><br /><font size="5"><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/contact-us.html">&#8203;</a>&#127881; <u><strong>Milestone Achievement: WLTG is officially a 501(c)(3) Nonprofit!</strong></u></font><br />We are proud and excited to announce that <strong>Without Limits &ndash; Team Galaxy (WLTG) has officially received IRS 501(c)(3) nonprofit certification</strong>.<br />This designation is a major milestone for our organization. It formally recognizes WLTG as a charitable nonprofit and allows us to:<ul><li>Accept <strong>tax-deductible donations</strong></li><li>Apply for <strong>grants and funding opportunities</strong></li><li>Strengthen long-term sustainability for our programs</li><li>Expand services and opportunities for our athletes and families</li></ul><br />&#128153; <strong>A Heartfelt Thank You</strong><br />This achievement did not happen overnight.&nbsp; In fact it to over a year to navigate the legal complexities and recent naming / contact changes.&nbsp;&nbsp;We extend our sincere thanks to the <strong>board members and especially Ellen Schwoebel </strong>who&nbsp;worked tirelessly throughout the year to make this possible. From planning and documentation to countless hours of coordination and follow-through&mdash;this was truly an effort.<br />Your dedication, persistence, and belief in our mission helped turn vision into reality.<br /><br />&#128640; <strong>What This Means Going Forward</strong><br />With 501(c)(3) status secured, WLTG is better positioned than ever to:<ul><li>Grow our sports, arts, and social programs</li><li>Build stronger community partnerships</li><li>Increase fundraising impact</li><li>Ensure long-term stability and transparency</li></ul> Most importantly, it allows us to continue creating <strong>inclusive, empowering opportunities without limits</strong> for the individuals and families we serve.<br />Thank you for being part of this journey&mdash;and for helping us reach this incredible milestone together.<br /><strong>The future of WLTG is brighter than ever.<br /><br /><font size="5">&#8203;</font></strong><font size="5">&#10024; </font><u><strong><font size="5">Cosmic Christians Gathering</font></strong></u><br />Join us for <strong>Cosmic Christians</strong> on<br />&#128197; <strong>Tuesday, January 13</strong><br />&#128353; <strong>6:30 PM</strong><br />&#128231; For more information or questions, please email<br /><strong><a>withoutlimits-teamgalaxy@gmail.com</a></strong><br />We look forward to connecting and sharing together!<br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#128587;&zwj;&#9792;&#65039; <u>WANTED!!! COACHES NEEDED!</u></font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">We&rsquo;re looking for passionate, energetic leaders to help our athletes shine this season!</span><ul style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><li>&#10024; Athletics (Track &amp; Field)</li><li>&#10052;&#65039; Cornhole (begins in January)</li></ul> <span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">If you or someone you know is interested in coaching,&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/contact-us.html">please reach out to us</a><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;&mdash; no prior experience required, just a big heart and a desire to make a difference!</span><br /><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/contact-us.html">Contact us today!!!</a><br /><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#128242;&nbsp;<u><strong>S</strong><strong>tay Connected with Without Limits &ndash; Team Galaxy!</strong></u></font><br />Want the latest updates, event photos, practice changes, and athlete highlights?</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Follow us on social media and never miss a moment!</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Facebook Page WLTG:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxy" target="_blank">@WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxy</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Facebook Group SO Cheer:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/4159251967470571" target="_blank">@WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxySOCheer</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Facebook Group WL-The Arts:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/1523704431426648" target="_blank">@WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxyArts</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Facebook Page WL Dance Co.:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/withoutlimitsdanceco" target="_blank">@WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxyDanceCo</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Facebook Group&nbsp;WL-Parents Group:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/263322554370400" target="_blank">@WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxyParents</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Instagram:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.instagram.com/withoutlimits_teamgalaxy" target="_new">@withoutlimits_teamgalaxy</a><br /><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#127881;&nbsp;Get behind-the-scenes looks, important reminders, and celebrate the incredible achievements of our athletes and volunteers.</span><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#128085; <u>WLTG Merch Store &ndash; Now Open!</u></font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/merchandise.html">Check out our updated merchandise with the new logo!</a></span></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[December 8, 2025 newsletter]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/news-blog/december-8-2025-newsletter]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/news-blog/december-8-2025-newsletter#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Mon, 08 Dec 2025 13:56:38 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/news-blog/december-8-2025-newsletter</guid><description><![CDATA[Schedule at a Glance (details below)&#128202;Finance Committee Meeting&nbsp;December 9th (6:30 to 8:30)&#10024;Christmas Party - Fun Night - December 12th (6 to 9PM)&#128179;&nbsp;Membership Dues for 2026 - Due in January&#129416;Swimming Season 2026 - Meeting / Practice in January (see below for details)&#127936;Basketball Tournament / Scrimmage -&nbsp;December 13th &amp; 14th&nbsp;(see below for details)&#127936;Basketball Shoot-Out -&nbsp;December 21st (see below for details)&#127936;Basketba [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph"><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">Schedule at a Glance (details below)</font></strong><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="3">&#128202;</font></strong>Finance Committee Meeting&nbsp;December 9th (6:30 to 8:30)<br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10024;</span><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/christmas-santas-cottage-2025.html">Christmas Party - Fun Night</a> - December 12th (6 to 9PM)<br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128179;&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/membership.html">Membership Dues for 2026 </a>- Due in January<br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#129416;</span><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/swimming.html">Swimming Season 2026</a> - Meeting / Practice in January (see below for details)<br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="4">&#127936;</font></strong>Basketball Tournament / Scrimmage -&nbsp;<span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">December 13th &amp; 14th&nbsp;(see below for details)</span><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="4">&#127936;</font></strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Basketball Shoot-Out -&nbsp;December 21st (see below for details)</span><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="4">&#127936;</font></strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Basketball Regionals -&nbsp;January 25 (see below for details)<br />&#10024;Cosmic Christians - December 16th event (details below)<br />&#10060;&nbsp;Dance Classes -&nbsp;&nbsp;there will be no classes during the weeks of 12/22 and 12/29</span><br /><strong>&#128203; </strong>WLTG Member Leader Board Committee Meeting -&nbsp;&nbsp;January 7th @ 6PM<br /><br /><font size="5">&#127876; </font><strong><font size="5">Without Limits &ndash; Team Galaxy Christmas Party!</font></strong><br />Join us <strong>Friday, December 12th from 6&ndash;9 PM</strong> at the <strong>Belleville/Swansea Moose Lodge #1221</strong> for our annual <strong>WLTG Christmas Party!</strong><br />&#10024; A <strong>special guest</strong> will be making an appearance!<br />&#127873; Visit our <strong>Santa Cottage</strong>, where items ranging from <strong>$1&ndash;$10</strong> will be available for purchase &mdash; perfect for gifts for friends and family!<br />&#127837; Dinner includes <strong>pasta and breadsticks</strong>, provided <strong>only for Special Olympics&ndash;eligible attendees</strong>. <em>(Meals will not be provided for parents, siblings, or caregivers.)</em><br />&#128205; <em>Belleville/Swansea Moose Lodge #1221 &mdash; 2425 N Illinois Street, Swansea, IL</em><br />&#128221; <strong>Register online:</strong> <a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/christmas-santas..." target="_new">withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/christmas-santas</a><br />We look forward to celebrating the season with you!<br /><br /><strong><font size="5">&#128202; Finance Committee Meeting Reminder</font></strong><ul><li>Join us for our <strong>Finance Meeting</strong> December 9th from <strong>&#128353; 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM</strong> via <strong>&#128187; Google Meets</strong>.</li><li>Please come prepared to discuss any <strong>&#128736;&#65039; equipment needs</strong> for the upcoming seasons. Your input is invaluable in ensuring we have everything we need!</li><li>Looking forward to seeing everyone there! &#127881;</li></ul><br /><font size="5">&#8203;<strong>&#128203; WLTG Member Leader Board Committee Meeting</strong></font><br />&#128467;&#65039; <strong>Date:</strong> Wednesday, <strong>January 7th</strong><br />&#128341; <strong>Time:</strong> 6:00 PM<br />&#128205; <strong>Location:</strong> Swansea Moose Lodge, <strong>1221</strong><br />Join us for an important meeting where we will discuss upcoming initiatives and opportunities for our members. Your participation is crucial!<br />We look forward to seeing you there! &#127881;<br /><br /><font size="5">&#129416; <strong>Join the 2026 WLTG Sharks Swim Teams!</strong></font><br />The <strong>2026 Swimming Season</strong> is almost here &mdash; running <strong>January through May</strong> &mdash; and <a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/join-our-swim-team.html">registration is now open!</a> Whether your athlete is brand-new to the water or ready for competitive Special Olympics swimming, we have a program designed for their level.<br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128205;&nbsp;</span><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Location of Swimming Pool is:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</span><a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/ZHyp1w8UkjgegFFC9" target="_blank">Collinsville / Maryville / Troy YMCA</a><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">.</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128187;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Register Today:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;</span><em style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/join-our-swim-team.html">Complete the WLTG Swim Registration Form</a></em><br /><br /><u><strong><font size="4">Schedules for 2026 (some changes may happen)</font></strong></u><br /><strong>Practice Schedule</strong><ul><li><u>Mandatory&nbsp;</u>- Parent meeting on January&nbsp;18 evening (virtual - will send invite prior)</li><li>First practice for both the Developmental and Competitive groups will be Sunday, January 25th.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Practices will run from January to May every Sunday at the times below.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li><strong>Development</strong>&nbsp;group will have the&nbsp;<span>pool</span>&nbsp;from 3PM to 4PM</li><li><strong>Competitive</strong>&nbsp;group will have the&nbsp;<span>pool</span>&nbsp;from 4PM to 5PM</li><li>Please attend your athlete's time so we can focus on each group</li></ul> <strong>Competitive Season Schedule</strong><ul><li>Regional Event&nbsp;<span>Swim</span>&nbsp;Meet - TBD late March @ Edwardsville High School&nbsp;<span>Pool</span>&nbsp;Facility (same as last year)</li><li>Summer Games - State Meet - TBD mid June -&nbsp;@ Bloomington&nbsp;/ Normal</li></ul> <em><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/join-our-swim-team.html">&#8203;</a></em>&#129416; <strong>Learn More&nbsp; --&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong>Visit our <strong><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/swimming.html">Swimming Webpage</a></strong> for:<ul><li>Additional program details</li><li>Eligibility requirements</li><li>Official <em>Shark-Ware</em> merchandise</li></ul> Let&rsquo;s make waves this season, Sharks! &#128153;&#127946;&zwj;&#9794;&#65039;<br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#129648; Dance Class Schedule</font></strong><br /><strong>&#128131; Dance Announcement</strong><br />Please note that there will be &#10060; no classes during the weeks of &#128467;&#65039; 12/22 and &#128467;&#65039; 12/29 for &#10052;&#65039; winter break.<br />Enjoy the holiday season!!<br /><strong><font size="5">Cosmic Christians</font></strong><br />December 16th event at Our Lady of the Snows Shrine.<br />Meet at 6PM at the petting zoo.<br />eMail <a href="mailto:withoutlimits-teamgalaxy@gmail.com">withoutlimits-teamgalaxy@gmail.com</a> for information or questions<br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#127881; Young Athletes Program</font></strong><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Time:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp; Sundays 10:30 - 11:15 AM</span><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Location:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;World Class Gymnastics</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">This program is designed for children ages 2-7 years old, with and without intellectual disabilities. We focus on developing motor, social, emotional, and learning skills through fun sports activities.</span><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Sign up by email:&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong><a href="mailto:withoutlimits.teamgalaxy@gmail.com" target="_blank">withoutlimits.teamgalaxy@gmail.com</a><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#127936; Basketball!</font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">The 2025&ndash;2026 basketball season practices will be held at:</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128205;&nbsp;</span><em style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">First Presbyterian Church, 1303 Royal Heights Rd, Belleville</em><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128341;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Skills Team:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;Monday at 6:00 PM</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128342;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Boys Team:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;Monday at 7:00 PM</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128103;&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Girls Teams:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;Thursday 6:00&ndash;8:00 PM</span><br /><br /><strong>1st Annual Yotes Basketball Tournament / Scrimmage</strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128341;&nbsp;</span>Saturday &amp; Sunday December 13th &amp; 14th<br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128205;&nbsp;</span><a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/qfpAd8b8Y4BKBBm78" target="_blank">Gillespie High School / 612 Broadway Street / Gillespie, IL 62033</a><br /><br /><strong>Region J Shoot Out</strong> in Okawville (no Skills) starting at 8AM - December 21st.<br /><strong>Basketball Regionals</strong> in Trenton starting at 8AM for Teams and 9AM for Skills<br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#127881; Young Athletes Program</font></strong><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Time:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp; Sundays 10:30 - 11:15 AM</span><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Location:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;World Class Gymnastics</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">This program is designed for children ages 2-7 years old, with and without intellectual disabilities. We focus on developing motor, social, emotional, and learning skills through fun sports activities.</span><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Sign up by email:&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong><a href="mailto:withoutlimits.teamgalaxy@gmail.com" target="_blank">withoutlimits.teamgalaxy@gmail.com</a><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">Dance Company --&nbsp;Solo / Duet / Trio / Etc. Signup</font></strong><ul style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><li><a href="https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0A4DA9AF23A6F8C16-59172845-solo" target="_blank">Sign-up link / slots for anyone who wants to do a solo/duet/trio/etc this year.</a></li><li>Please review the available slots and click on the button to sign up.</li><li>If you would like to sign up for an hour long session, please sign up for two slots (Ex: Sign up for 10:00am-10:30am and 10:30am-11:00am, if you want a 10:00am-11:00am session).&nbsp;</li><li>If you are doing a duet/trio/etc, only one person in the group needs to sign up for a slot, but please still include the name of each person in the group when signing up.</li><li>Each 30min session is $25</li></ul><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#128587;&zwj;&#9792;&#65039; WANTED!!! COACHES NEEDED!</font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">We&rsquo;re looking for passionate, energetic leaders to help our athletes shine this season!</span><ul style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><li>&#10024; Athletics (Track &amp; Field)</li><li>&#10052;&#65039; Cornhole (begins in January)</li></ul> <span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">If you or someone you know is interested in coaching,&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/contact-us.html">please reach out to us</a><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;&mdash; no prior experience required, just a big heart and a desire to make a difference!</span><br /><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/contact-us.html">Contact us today!!!</a><br /><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#128242;&nbsp;<strong>S</strong><strong>tay Connected with Without Limits &ndash; Team Galaxy!</strong></font><br />Want the latest updates, event photos, practice changes, and athlete highlights?</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Follow us on social media and never miss a moment!</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Facebook Page WLTG:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxy" target="_blank">@WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxy</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Facebook Group SO Cheer:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/4159251967470571" target="_blank">@WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxySOCheer</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Facebook Group WL-The Arts:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/1523704431426648" target="_blank">@WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxyArts</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Facebook Page WL Dance Co.:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/withoutlimitsdanceco" target="_blank">@WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxyDanceCo</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Facebook Group&nbsp;WL-Parents Group:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/263322554370400" target="_blank">@WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxyParents</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Instagram:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.instagram.com/withoutlimits_teamgalaxy" target="_new">@withoutlimits_teamgalaxy</a><br /><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#127881;&nbsp;Get behind-the-scenes looks, important reminders, and celebrate the incredible achievements of our athletes and volunteers.</span><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#128178;Membership Dues &ndash; January 1st 2026</font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128187;&nbsp;</span><a href="https://checkout.square.site/merchant/MLKJFPTKKPBBW/checkout/K2JDWBISGBQN75HNUTNYMQS3" target="_blank">Pay your dues online via Square link<span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;</span></a><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#128085; WLTG Merch Store &ndash; Now Open!</font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/merchandise.html">Check out our updated merchandise with the new logo!</a></span></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[November 4th newsletter]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/news-blog/november-4th-newsletter]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/news-blog/november-4th-newsletter#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Tue, 04 Nov 2025 14:19:26 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/news-blog/november-4th-newsletter</guid><description><![CDATA[Schedule at a Glance (details below)&#127936; Basketball Practices BeginWeek of November 10, 2025&#128341; Skills (6 to 7 PM Monday), Boys (7 to 8:30PM Tues), Girls (Thurs 6 to 8:30 PM)&#128205; First United Presbyterian Church, Belleville&#128073; Skills (6 to 7 PM Monday), Boys (7 to 8:30PM Tues), Girls (Thurs 6 to 8:30 PM)&#127903;&#65039; Playground Committee &mdash; Trivia FundraiserSaturday, November 8, 2025&#128205; See details &amp; RSVP: Facebook Event Link&#128131; Dance Classes (2025& [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph"><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">Schedule at a Glance (details below)</font></strong><br />&#127936;<u> <strong>Basketball Practices Begin</strong></u><br /><strong>Week of November 10, 2025</strong><br />&#128341; <span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Skills (6 to 7 PM Monday), Boys (7 to 8:30PM Tues), Girls (Thurs 6 to 8:30 PM)</span><br />&#128205; <em>First United Presbyterian Church, Belleville</em><br />&#128073; Skills (6 to 7 PM Monday), Boys (7 to 8:30PM Tues), Girls (Thurs 6 to 8:30 PM)<br />&#127903;&#65039; <u><strong>Playground Committee &mdash; Trivia Fundraiser</strong></u><br /><strong>Saturday, November 8, 2025</strong><br />&#128205; <em>See details &amp; RSVP:</em> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/share/16eXRXzCDr/?mibextid=wwXIfr" target="_new">Facebook Event Link</a><br />&#128131; <u><strong>Dance Classes (2025&ndash;2026 Season)</strong></u><br /><strong>Tuesdays in November</strong> &mdash; <em>Stars R Us Studio</em><br />&#127881; <u><strong>Fun Night Committee Meeting</strong></u><br /><strong>Wednesday, November 5, 2025 &mdash; 6:00 PM</strong><br />&#128205; <em>Swansea Belleville Moose Lodge, 2425 N Illinois Street, Swansea</em><br />&#127941; <u><strong>Coach Training Day &ndash; Region J</strong></u><br /><strong>Sunday, November 9, 2025 &mdash; 10:00 AM&ndash;2:00 PM</strong><br />&#128205; <em>Scott Air Force Base</em><br />&#128202;<u> <strong>Finance Committee Meeting</strong></u><br /><strong>Tuesday, November 11, 2025 &mdash; 6:30&ndash;8:30 PM</strong><br />&#127923; <u><strong>State Bowling Tournament</strong></u><br /><strong>Saturday, December 6, 2025 &mdash; All Day</strong><br />&#128205; <em>Victory Lanes, Decatur, IL</em><br /><br /><strong><font size="5">&#127903;&#65039; Playground Committee &mdash; Trivia Fundraiser</font></strong><br />Join us <em>this Saturday</em> for a fun night of trivia to support our Playground Committee!<br />&#128205; <a href="https://www.facebook.com/share/16eXRXzCDr/?mibextid=wwXIfr" target="_new">Event Details &amp; RSVP on Facebook</a><br /><br /><strong><font size="5">&#129648; Dance Class Schedule &mdash; Important for Tuesday Classes!</font></strong><br />Here&rsquo;s the lineup for November:<ul><li><strong>Nov 4:</strong> Ballet / Tap</li><li><strong>Nov 11:</strong> Jazz / Hip Hop</li><li><strong>Nov 18:</strong> Ballet / Jazz</li><li><strong>Nov 25:</strong> Tap / Hip Hop</li></ul> &#128161; <em>Competition Team:</em> Always bring <strong>ballet or jazz shoes</strong>.<br />&#128179; November fees are due &mdash; pay online via Venmo or card.<br /><em>(No cash or check collection this week, but in-person payments resume next week!)</em><br /><br /><strong><font size="5">&#127881; Fun Night Committee Meeting</font></strong><br />Come share your ideas and help plan our next three Fun Nights!<br />&#128197; <strong>Wednesday, Nov 5</strong> &mdash; 6:00 PM<br />&#128205; <em>Swansea Belleville Moose Lodge, 2425 N Illinois Street, Swansea</em><br />All parents, guardians, and members are welcome. Let&rsquo;s make our Fun Nights even better together!<br /><br /><strong><font size="5">&#8203;Join Us for a Night of Fun:&nbsp; Dinner, BINGO, and Music!</font></strong><br />We&rsquo;re excited to invite you to an evening filled with delicious food, engaging games, and lively music!<br /><strong>Event Details:</strong><ul><li><strong>Date:</strong> November 14, 2025</li><li><strong>Dinner:</strong> Enjoy a scrumptious meal featuring Fried Chicken and Mac N Cheese.</li><li><strong>Activities:</strong> Get ready for an exciting game of BINGO, along with some fantastic music to keep the energy high!</li></ul> <strong>Important Note:</strong> This meal is exclusively for Special Olympics eligible attendees. Unfortunately, meals will not be provided for parents, guardians, or caregivers.<br />Who Can Attend?<ul><li><strong>Free for all 2025 WLTG Paid Members.</strong></li><li><strong>$5 for non-members.</strong></li><li>Open to any individual who is Special Olympics eligible.</li></ul><br /><strong>Please remember: You must be registered to attend.</strong> Don't miss out on this fantastic opportunity to connect and enjoy a night out!<br /><br />&#128073; <strong>Click the link below to register:&nbsp; &nbsp;</strong><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/bingo-november-14-2025.html#/" target="_blank"><span>Register Here</span></a><br />We can&rsquo;t wait to see you there! Let&rsquo;s make this a memorable evening together! &#127881;<br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#127881; Young Athletes Program</font></strong><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">NO YA Sports this week<br />Time:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp; Sundays 10:30 - 11:15 AM</span><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Location:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;World Class Gymnastics</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">This program is designed for children ages 2-7 years old, with and without intellectual disabilities. We focus on developing motor, social, emotional, and learning skills through fun sports activities.</span><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Sign up by email:&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong><a href="mailto:withoutlimits.teamgalaxy@gmail.com" target="_blank">withoutlimits.teamgalaxy@gmail.com</a><br /><br /><strong><font size="5">&#127936; Basketball Season Begins!</font></strong><br />The 2025&ndash;2026 basketball season kicks off this week! Practices will be held at:<br />&#128205; <em>First Presbyterian Church, 1303 Royal Heights Rd, Belleville</em><br />&#128341; <strong>Skills Team:</strong> Tuesday at 6:00 PM<br />&#128342; <strong>Boys Team:</strong> Tuesday at 7:00 PM<br />&#128103; <strong>Girls Teams:</strong> Thursday 6:00&ndash;8:00 PM<br />If you haven&rsquo;t registered yet but want to join, please reply to this message. Not sure if you&rsquo;re ready? Stop by a practice and check it out!<br />&#128171; <em>We look forward to another great week of fun, fitness, and friendship with our WLTG family!</em><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#127881; Young Athletes Program</font></strong><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">NO YA Sports this week<br />Time:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp; Sundays 10:30 - 11:15 AM</span><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Location:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;World Class Gymnastics</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">This program is designed for children ages 2-7 years old, with and without intellectual disabilities. We focus on developing motor, social, emotional, and learning skills through fun sports activities.</span><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Sign up by email:&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong><a href="mailto:withoutlimits.teamgalaxy@gmail.com" target="_blank">withoutlimits.teamgalaxy@gmail.com</a><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">Dance Company --&nbsp;Solo / Duet / Trio / Etc. Signup</font></strong><ul style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><li><a href="https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0A4DA9AF23A6F8C16-59172845-solo" target="_blank">Sign-up link / slots for anyone who wants to do a solo/duet/trio/etc this year.</a></li><li>Please review the available slots and click on the button to sign up.</li><li>If you would like to sign up for an hour long session, please sign up for two slots (Ex: Sign up for 10:00am-10:30am and 10:30am-11:00am, if you want a 10:00am-11:00am session).&nbsp;</li><li>If you are doing a duet/trio/etc, only one person in the group needs to sign up for a slot, but please still include the name of each person in the group when signing up.</li><li>Each 30min session is $25</li></ul><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#128202; Finance Committee Meeting Update</font><br />&#8203;</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">The Finance Committee meeting has been rescheduled from&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">November 4th</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;to&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">November 11th</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;from&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">6:30 to 8:30 PM</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;for its next meeting.</span><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#128587;&zwj;&#9792;&#65039; WANTED!!! COACHES NEEDED!</font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">We&rsquo;re looking for passionate, energetic leaders to help our athletes shine this season!</span><ul style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><li>&#10024; Rhythmic Gymnastics &ndash; Additional coaches needed to join our growing program.</li><li>&#10052;&#65039; Snowshoeing &ndash; A coach is needed for this winter&rsquo;s season!</li></ul> <span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">If you or someone you know is interested in coaching,&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/contact-us.html">please reach out to us</a><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;&mdash; no prior experience required, just a big heart and a desire to make a difference!</span><br /><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/contact-us.html">Contact us today!!!</a><br /><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#128242;&nbsp;<strong>S</strong><strong>tay Connected with Without Limits &ndash; Team Galaxy!</strong></font><br />Want the latest updates, event photos, practice changes, and athlete highlights?</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Follow us on social media and never miss a moment!</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Facebook Page WLTG:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxy" target="_blank">@WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxy</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Facebook Group SO Cheer:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/4159251967470571" target="_blank">@WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxySOCheer</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Facebook Group WL-The Arts:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/1523704431426648" target="_blank">@WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxyArts</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Facebook Page WL Dance Co.:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/withoutlimitsdanceco" target="_blank">@WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxyDanceCo</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Facebook Group&nbsp;WL-Parents Group:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/263322554370400" target="_blank">@WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxyParents</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Instagram:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.instagram.com/withoutlimits_teamgalaxy" target="_new">@withoutlimits_teamgalaxy</a><br /><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#127881;&nbsp;Get behind-the-scenes looks, important reminders, and celebrate the incredible achievements of our athletes and volunteers.</span><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#128178;Membership Dues &ndash; 2025</font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128187;&nbsp;</span><a href="https://checkout.square.site/merchant/MLKJFPTKKPBBW/checkout/K2JDWBISGBQN75HNUTNYMQS3" target="_blank">Pay your dues online via Square link<span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;</span></a><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#128085; WLTG Merch Store &ndash; Now Open!</font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/merchandise.html">Check out our updated merchandise with the new logo!</a></span><br /><br /><br />&#8203;</div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[October 20, 2025 - newsletter]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/news-blog/october-20-2025-newsletter]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/news-blog/october-20-2025-newsletter#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Mon, 20 Oct 2025 13:56:30 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/news-blog/october-20-2025-newsletter</guid><description><![CDATA[Schedule at a Glance (details below)&#127875; Trunk or Treat Fun NightFriday, October 24, 2025 -&nbsp;6:00&ndash;9:00 PM - Outdoor Event &ndash; Dress for weather &amp; bring lawn chair&#127917; Arts Committee MeetingSaturday, October 25, 2025 --&nbsp;10:00 AM (Time Change) -- See Facebook Event&#127923; Bowling SectionalsSunday, October 26, 2025 --&nbsp;St. Clair Bowl&#127936; Basketball Practices Begin&nbsp;Week of November 3, 2025 --&nbsp;Mon: 6&ndash;8 PM / Thurs: 6&ndash;8 PM --&nbsp;First  [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph"><strong><font size="5">Schedule at a Glance (details below)</font></strong><br />&#127875; <strong>Trunk or Treat Fun Night</strong><br />Friday, <strong>October 24, 2025 -&nbsp;</strong>6:00&ndash;9:00 PM - Outdoor Event &ndash; Dress for weather &amp; bring lawn chair<br />&#127917; <strong>Arts Committee Meeting</strong><br />Saturday, <strong>October 25, 2025 --&nbsp;</strong><strong>10:00 AM</strong> (Time Change) -- See <a href="https://facebook.com/events/s/without-limits-arts-committee-/1590205788625157/">Facebook Event</a><br />&#127923; <strong>Bowling Sectionals</strong><br />Sunday, <strong>October 26, 2025 --&nbsp;</strong>St. Clair Bowl<br />&#127936; <strong>Basketball Practices Begin&nbsp;</strong><br />Week of November 3, 2025 --&nbsp;Mon: 6&ndash;8 PM / Thurs: 6&ndash;8 PM --&nbsp;First United Presbyterian Church<br />&#128202; <strong>Finance Committee Meeting</strong><br />Tuesday, <strong>November 11, 2025 --&nbsp;</strong>6:30&ndash;8:30 PM<br />&#127941; <strong>Coach Training Day &ndash; Region J</strong><br />Sunday, <strong>November 9, 2025 --&nbsp;</strong>10:00 AM&ndash;2:00 PM -- Scott Air Force Base<br />&#127923; <strong>State Bowling Tournament</strong><br />Saturday, <strong>December 6, 2025 --&nbsp;</strong>All Day -- Victory Lanes, Decatur, IL<br />&#128131; <strong>Dance Classes (2025&ndash;2026)</strong><br />Mondays, Tuesdays, Saturdays -- Times vary -- Stars R Us Studio<br />&#127775; <strong>Cosmic Christians</strong><br />Tuesday, <strong>October 21, 2025 --&nbsp;</strong>6:30&ndash;7:30 PM<br /><br /><strong><font size="5">&#127875; TRUNK OR TREAT FUN NIGHT!</font></strong><br />Join us for our <strong>Trick or Trunk Halloween Celebration!</strong><br />&#128197; <strong>Friday, October 24, 2025</strong><br />&#128341; <strong>6:00&ndash;9:00 PM</strong><br />&#128205; Outdoor Event &ndash; Dress for the weather and bring a lawn chair!<br />Enjoy <strong>Trunk or Treat</strong>, <strong>hayrides</strong>, and a <strong>Halloween movie on the big screen</strong>!<br />&#127789; We&rsquo;ll be serving <strong>hot dogs, chips, and soda</strong> for all Special Olympics eligible attendees. (Meals not provided for parents, guardians, or caregivers.)<br />&#127903;&#65039; <strong>Free for 2025 WLTG Paid Members</strong><br />&#128178; <strong>$5 for non-members</strong> &ndash; All Special Olympics eligible individuals are welcome!<br />&#128073; Register today!&nbsp; &nbsp;<a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/trunk-or-treat-2025.html" target="_blank">Trunk or Treat 2025</a><br /><br /><strong><font size="5">&#127952; GOLD MEDAL GLORY &ndash; TEAM GALAXY SPIKERS SHINE!</font></strong><ul><li>This volleyball season was nothing short of a miracle for the <strong>Without Limits &ndash; Team Galaxy Spikers</strong>. More than a game, it was a lesson in courage, teamwork, and heart.</li><li>Against all odds, with just six players, our Spikers battled their way to the <strong>State Championship</strong> and captured the <strong>Gold Medal</strong> in a thrilling, crowd-roaring finish!</li><li>A huge thank you to our incredible coaches &mdash; <strong>Jon Borlin, Jennifer Miller, Mari Seper, Leslie Koth, Bob, Amanda Lutz, and Scott Davis</strong> &mdash; and to every parent and supporter who believed in the impossible.</li><li>Special shout-out to <strong>Vinson McNamee</strong> for his selfless determination, playing through pain to help his team achieve greatness.</li></ul> &#11088; Congratulations, State Champions &mdash; you&rsquo;ve proven once again there are truly <strong>no limits!</strong> &#11088;<br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#127881; Young Athletes Program</font></strong><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">NO YA Sports this week<br />Time:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp; Sundays 10:30 - 11:15 AM</span><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Location:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;World Class Gymnastics</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">This program is designed for children ages 2-7 years old, with and without intellectual disabilities. We focus on developing motor, social, emotional, and learning skills through fun sports activities.</span><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Sign up by email:&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong><a href="mailto:withoutlimits.teamgalaxy@gmail.com" target="_blank">withoutlimits.teamgalaxy@gmail.com</a><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#128085;&nbsp;</font></strong><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">Fleece Letterman's Jacket Now On Sale</font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Orders due by October 31st.&nbsp;<br />Makes a great Christmas gift!!!<br />NOW AVAILABLE for $155.00 -&nbsp;</span><a href="https://square.link/u/H6FAN61r" target="_blank">Square Link to purchase</a><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#128221; Dance Schedules for 2025-2026</font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Payments for October are Due.</span><ul style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><li>You can pay by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/dance-payments.html#/" target="_blank">venmo&nbsp;</a>(see Facebook for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/dance-payments.html#/" target="_blank">QR code</a>), credit card, or check.</li></ul> <strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Reminder on class fees</strong><ul style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><li>Monday competition team $50 per month</li><li>Tuesday 5-11 yr old $35 per month</li><li>Tuesday 12 yrs &amp; up $40 per month</li><li>Saturday hip hop $40 per month</li></ul> <span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10024;</span><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Dance Instructor for Super, Bright, Shining, and Funky Stars = Kara Nolte</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10024;</span><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Dance Instructor for Solos/Duets/Trios = Angelica Cruz</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128197;</span><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Classes Start Monday September 29, 2025 and will run until the recital date typically in June (exact date tbd)</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039;</span><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Classes will be held at Stars R Us Studio&nbsp; 9241 Beller Dr., Mascoutah, IL 62258</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128073; Please take a moment to fill out this form:&nbsp; &#128279;&nbsp;</span><a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdchJ9NUYOAY6Q0ZXg0UhlknIlqQhjmBk3dFC6xVoQCXFigow/viewform" target="_new">Click here to complete the Team Galaxy Form</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Your quick response helps us stay organized and ready for all upcoming events!</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#8203;</span><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Keep your eyes open on our&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/1523704431426648" target="_blank">FACEBOOK page</a><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;for the latest details</span><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">Dance Company --&nbsp;Solo / Duet / Trio / Etc. Signup</font></strong><ul style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><li><a href="https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0A4DA9AF23A6F8C16-59172845-solo" target="_blank">Sign-up link / slots for anyone who wants to do a solo/duet/trio/etc this year.</a></li><li>Please review the available slots and click on the button to sign up.</li><li>If you would like to sign up for an hour long session, please sign up for two slots (Ex: Sign up for 10:00am-10:30am and 10:30am-11:00am, if you want a 10:00am-11:00am session).&nbsp;</li><li>If you are doing a duet/trio/etc, only one person in the group needs to sign up for a slot, but please still include the name of each person in the group when signing up.</li><li>Each 30min session is $25</li></ul><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#128085;&nbsp;</font></strong><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">Cosmic Christians</font></strong><br />Join us October 21st @ 6:30 to 7:30PM<br />Talking about your faith with friends / games / snacks / fun / community service<br />We have members interested in forming a Christian based group that would meet monthly.&nbsp; If your interested RSVP to <a href="mailto:withoutlimits.teamgalaxy@gmail.com">withoutlimits.teamgalaxy@gmail.com</a><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#128221; Cheer Schedules - UPDATE</font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">No Game Day Cheer this week<br />No Competition Cheer this week<br />No Young Athletes Sports or Cheer this week</span><br /><br /><strong><font size="5">&#127936; BASKETBALL SEASON IS HERE!</font></strong><br />Volleyball season has officially wrapped up &mdash; <strong>congratulations to our Destroyers I team for bringing home GOLD at State!</strong> &#127952;&#10024;<br />Now it&rsquo;s time to hit the court &mdash; <strong>Basketball season begins the first week of November!</strong><br />&#128205; <strong>Practices held at:</strong> <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/JKekNQAuc9pQ73bM9?g_st=ipc" target="_new">First United Presbyterian Church</a><br />&#128467;&#65039; <strong>Practice Schedule:</strong><br /><strong>Mondays:</strong><ul><li>6:00&ndash;7:00 PM &ndash; Skills</li><li>7:00&ndash;8:00 PM &ndash; Boys</li></ul> <strong>Thursdays:</strong><ul><li>6:00&ndash;8:00 PM &ndash; Girls</li></ul> Let&rsquo;s bring the same <em>Without Limits</em> energy to the court &mdash; go Team Galaxy! &#128171;<br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#127923; 2025 Bowling Schedules</font></strong><ul><li><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Bowling Sectionals will be held on Sunday, October 26th at St. Clair Bowl</span></li><li><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">The&nbsp;State Bowling Tournament will take place at&nbsp;</span><a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/bXKyuEJavsmsE7h7A" target="_blank">Victory Lanes in Decatur, Illinois (2870 N. Jasper St.).</a>&nbsp;--&nbsp;<span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128197; Saturday, December 6, 2025</span></li></ul> <span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">To learn more and view the full schedule of events, visit:</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128279;&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.soill.org/state-bowling-tournament" target="_new">www.soill.org/state-bowling-tournament</a><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#128202; Finance Committee Meeting Update</font><br />&#8203;</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">The Finance Committee meeting has been rescheduled from&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">November 4th</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;to&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">November 11th</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;from&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">6:30 to 8:30 PM</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;for its next meeting.</span><br /><br /><strong><font size="5">&#127917; ARTS COMMITTEE &mdash; MEETING REMINDER</font></strong><br />&#128197; <strong>Saturday, October 25, 2025</strong><br />&#9200; <strong>TIME CHANGE: 10:00 AM</strong><br />We&rsquo;re recruiting volunteers for the 2025 season:<ul><li><strong>Venue Coordinator</strong> &ndash; Secure venues for the recital and theater production.</li><li><strong>Costume Coordinator</strong> &ndash; Help select/order costumes for competition, recital, and the <strong>Shrek</strong> production; assist with payments. (Sewing skills a plus, not required.)</li></ul> &#128073; Details &amp; RSVP: <a href="https://facebook.com/events/s/without-limits-arts-committee-/1590205788625157/" target="_new">Facebook Event</a><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#128587;&zwj;&#9792;&#65039; COACHES Training Opportunities!</font></strong><br />Region J will be hosting Coach Trainings in Basketball, Flag Football and Bowling on Sunday, November 9th at Scott AFB.&nbsp;<ul><li>Basketball - 10 to 11 AM @ James Gym</li><li>Flag Football - 11 to 12 @ Outside Base Track / if raining inside gym</li><li>Lunch - 12 to 1 @ BX Food Court</li><li>Bowling - 1 to 2 PM @ Stars and Strips Base Bowling Alley</li></ul> To register, send email to Alice Howe (SOAD for team Scott) with the following information:<ul><li>First name / last name</li><li>Date of Birth</li><li>Driver's License Number or State ID Number (needs to be Real ID)</li><li>or</li><li>Valid passport / birth certificate / social security card&nbsp;</li></ul> **We will still need driver&rsquo;s license and birthdate ahead of time. so they can get you a pass ahead of time**<br />If you already have base access we will just need your name, email and phone number<br />***DEADLINE to Register is October 28<br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#128587;&zwj;&#9792;&#65039; WANTED!!! COACHES NEEDED!</font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">We&rsquo;re looking for passionate, energetic leaders to help our athletes shine this season!</span><ul style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><li>&#10024; Rhythmic Gymnastics &ndash; Additional coaches needed to join our growing program.</li><li>&#10052;&#65039; Snowshoeing &ndash; A coach is needed for this winter&rsquo;s season!</li></ul> <span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">If you or someone you know is interested in coaching,&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/contact-us.html">please reach out to us</a><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;&mdash; no prior experience required, just a big heart and a desire to make a difference!</span><br /><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/contact-us.html">Contact us today!!!</a><br /><br /><font size="5" style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128101;&nbsp;<strong>2025 Banquet Thank You!</strong></font><br />Thank you to everyone who came out to celebrate our organization and to all this made this night so amazing. A special thank you to Scott Simon, The Elder Family, everyone at the Swansea Moose Lodge 1221, and Jennifer Otero for making the night so wonderful!!<br /><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#128242;&nbsp;<strong>S</strong><strong>tay Connected with Without Limits &ndash; Team Galaxy!</strong></font><br />Want the latest updates, event photos, practice changes, and athlete highlights?</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Follow us on social media and never miss a moment!</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Facebook Page WLTG:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxy" target="_blank">@WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxy</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Facebook Group SO Cheer:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/4159251967470571" target="_blank">@WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxySOCheer</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Facebook Group WL-The Arts:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/1523704431426648" target="_blank">@WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxyArts</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Facebook Page WL Dance Co.:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/withoutlimitsdanceco" target="_blank">@WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxyDanceCo</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Facebook Group&nbsp;WL-Parents Group:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/263322554370400" target="_blank">@WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxyParents</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Instagram:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.instagram.com/withoutlimits_teamgalaxy" target="_new">@withoutlimits_teamgalaxy</a><br /><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#127881;&nbsp;Get behind-the-scenes looks, important reminders, and celebrate the incredible achievements of our athletes and volunteers.</span><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#128178;Membership Dues &ndash; 2025</font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128187;&nbsp;</span><a href="https://checkout.square.site/merchant/MLKJFPTKKPBBW/checkout/K2JDWBISGBQN75HNUTNYMQS3" target="_blank">Pay your dues online via Square link<span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;</span></a><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#128085; WLTG Merch Store &ndash; Now Open!</font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/merchandise.html">Check out our updated merchandise with the new logo!</a></span><br /><br /><br /><br /></div>]]></content:encoded></item><item><title><![CDATA[Newsletter for October 8th]]></title><link><![CDATA[https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/news-blog/newsletter-for-october-8th]]></link><comments><![CDATA[https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/news-blog/newsletter-for-october-8th#comments]]></comments><pubDate>Wed, 08 Oct 2025 18:30:22 GMT</pubDate><category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category><guid isPermaLink="false">https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/news-blog/newsletter-for-october-8th</guid><description><![CDATA[&#127881; Young Athletes ProgramStarting Sunday, October 5th!Time:&nbsp; Sundays 10:30 - 11:15 AMLocation:&nbsp;World Class GymnasticsThis program is designed for children ages 2-7 years old, with and without intellectual disabilities. We focus on developing motor, social, emotional, and learning skills through fun sports activities.Sign up by email:&nbsp;&nbsp;withoutlimits.teamgalaxy@gmail.com&#128085;&nbsp;Fleece Letterman's Jacket Now On SaleNOW AVAILABLE for $155.00 -&nbsp;Square Link to pu [...] ]]></description><content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="paragraph"><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#127881; Young Athletes Program</font></strong><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Starting Sunday, October 5th!</strong><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Time:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp; Sundays 10:30 - 11:15 AM</span><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Location:</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;World Class Gymnastics</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">This program is designed for children ages 2-7 years old, with and without intellectual disabilities. We focus on developing motor, social, emotional, and learning skills through fun sports activities.</span><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Sign up by email:&nbsp;&nbsp;</strong><a href="mailto:withoutlimits.teamgalaxy@gmail.com" target="_blank">withoutlimits.teamgalaxy@gmail.com</a><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#128085;&nbsp;</font></strong><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">Fleece Letterman's Jacket Now On Sale</font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">NOW AVAILABLE for $155.00 -&nbsp;</span><a href="https://square.link/u/H6FAN61r" target="_blank">Square Link to purchase</a><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#128221; Dance Schedules for 2025-2026</font></strong><br />Payments for October are Due.<ul style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><li>You can pay by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/dance-payments.html#/" target="_blank">venmo&nbsp;</a>(see Facebook for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/dance-payments.html#/" target="_blank">QR code</a>), credit card, or check.</li></ul> <strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Reminder on class fees</strong><ul style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><li>Monday competition team $50 per month</li><li>Tuesday 5-11 yr old $35 per month</li><li>Tuesday 12 yrs &amp; up $40 per month</li><li>Saturday hip hop $40 per month</li></ul> <span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10024;</span><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Dance Instructor for Super, Bright, Shining, and Funky Stars = Kara Nolte</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10024;</span><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Dance Instructor for Solos/Duets/Trios = Angelica Cruz</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128197;</span><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Classes Start Monday September 29, 2025 and will run until the recital date typically in June (exact date tbd)</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039;</span><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Classes will be held at Stars R Us Studio&nbsp; 9241 Beller Dr., Mascoutah, IL 62258</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128073; Please take a moment to fill out this form:&nbsp; &#128279;&nbsp;</span><a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdchJ9NUYOAY6Q0ZXg0UhlknIlqQhjmBk3dFC6xVoQCXFigow/viewform" target="_new">Click here to complete the Team Galaxy Form</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Your quick response helps us stay organized and ready for all upcoming events!</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#8203;</span><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Keep your eyes open on our&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/1523704431426648" target="_blank">FACEBOOK page</a><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;for the latest details</span><br /><br /><strong><font size="5">Dance Company --&nbsp;Solo / Duet / Trio / Etc. Signup</font></strong><ul><li><a href="https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0A4DA9AF23A6F8C16-59172845-solo" target="_blank">Sign-up link / slots for anyone who wants to do a solo/duet/trio/etc this year. </a></li><li>Please review the available slots and click on the button to sign up.</li><li>If you would like to sign up for an hour long session, please sign up for two slots (Ex: Sign up for 10:00am-10:30am and 10:30am-11:00am, if you want a 10:00am-11:00am session).&nbsp;</li><li>If you are doing a duet/trio/etc, only one person in the group needs to sign up for a slot, but please still include the name of each person in the group when signing up.</li><li>Each 30min session is $25</li></ul><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#127952; Volleyball</font></strong><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Upcoming Volleyball Practice:</strong><ul style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><li>Competitive Volleyball will practice on&nbsp;<strong>Wednesday from 6PM to 7PM</strong>&nbsp;at the Civic Center</li><li>Skills Volleyball will practice on&nbsp;<strong>Thursday from 6PM to 7PM</strong>&nbsp;at the Civic Center.</li></ul><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#127936; Basketball &ndash; Sign up NOW!!!</font></strong><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Join Our Special Olympics Basketball Teams!</strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Registration for Basketball is now open! If you are interested in playing this year or would like additional information about the Basketball program,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/basketball-sign-up.html#/" target="_blank">please follow the link below to sign-up.</a></span><ul style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><li>Practices will be at the&nbsp;<a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/VKEQgmGUSmPG2Q7s7" target="_blank">First United Presbyterian Church</a></li><li>Monday 6PM - skills</li></ul><ul style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><li>Monday 7PM&nbsp;- Boys</li><li>Thursday 6PM&nbsp;- Girls</li><li>Thursday 7PM&nbsp;-&nbsp;Girls</li></ul> <span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128073;&nbsp;</span><a href="mailto:withoutlimits.teamgalaxy@gmail.com">Please let us know</a><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;if you are interested in participating so we can finalize rosters and practice details.</span><br /><br /><strong><font size="5">&#127923; 2025 State Bowling Tournament</font></strong><br />The 2025 State Bowling Tournament will now take place at <a href="https://maps.app.goo.gl/bXKyuEJavsmsE7h7A" target="_blank">Victory Lanes in Decatur, Illinois (2870 N. Jasper St.).</a><br />&#128197; Saturday, December 6, 2025<br />To learn more and view the full schedule of events, visit:<br />&#128279; <a href="https://www.soill.org/state-bowling-tournament" target="_new">www.soill.org/state-bowling-tournament</a><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#128202; Finance Committee Meeting Update</font><br />&#8203;</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">The Finance Committee meeting has been rescheduled from&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">November 4th</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;to&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">November 11th</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;from&nbsp;</span><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">6:30 to 8:30 PM</strong><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;for its next meeting.</span><br /><br /><font size="5" style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128101;&nbsp;<strong>Arts Committee Meeting&nbsp;</strong></font><ul style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><li>Next meeting on Saturday, October 25th @ 11:15AM @ Star R Us Studio in Mascoutah</li></ul><br /><strong><font size="5">&#128587;&zwj;&#9792;&#65039; WANTED!!! COACHES NEEDED!</font></strong><br />We&rsquo;re looking for passionate, energetic leaders to help our athletes shine this season!<ul><li>&#10024; Rhythmic Gymnastics &ndash; Additional coaches needed to join our growing program.</li><li>&#10052;&#65039; Snowshoeing &ndash; A coach is needed for this winter&rsquo;s season!</li></ul>If you or someone you know is interested in coaching, <a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/contact-us.html">please reach out to us</a> &mdash; no prior experience required, just a big heart and a desire to make a difference!<br /><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/contact-us.html">Contact us today!!!</a><br /><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#128242; <strong>S</strong><strong>tay Connected with Without Limits &ndash; Team Galaxy!</strong></font><br />Want the latest updates, event photos, practice changes, and athlete highlights?</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">Follow us on social media and never miss a moment!</span><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Facebook Page WLTG:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxy" target="_blank">@WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxy</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Facebook Group SO Cheer:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/4159251967470571" target="_blank">@WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxySOCheer</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Facebook Group WL-The Arts:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/1523704431426648" target="_blank">@WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxyArts</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Facebook Page WL Dance Co.:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/withoutlimitsdanceco" target="_blank">@WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxyDanceCo</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Facebook Group&nbsp;WL-Parents Group:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/263322554370400" target="_blank">@WithoutLimitsTeamGalaxyParents</a><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#10145;&#65039; Instagram:&nbsp;</span><a href="https://www.instagram.com/withoutlimits_teamgalaxy" target="_new">@withoutlimits_teamgalaxy</a><br /><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#127881;&nbsp;Get behind-the-scenes looks, important reminders, and celebrate the incredible achievements of our athletes and volunteers.</span><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#128178;Membership Dues &ndash; 2025</font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&#128187;&nbsp;</span><a href="https://checkout.square.site/merchant/MLKJFPTKKPBBW/checkout/K2JDWBISGBQN75HNUTNYMQS3" target="_blank">Pay your dues online via Square link<span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)">&nbsp;</span></a><br /><br /><strong style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><font size="5">&#128085; WLTG Merch Store &ndash; Now Open!</font></strong><br /><span style="color:rgb(129, 129, 129)"><a href="https://www.withoutlimits-teamgalaxy.com/merchandise.html">Check out our updated merchandise with the new logo!</a></span></div>]]></content:encoded></item></channel></rss>