La Grange-Area Dance Studio Told It Is Breaking Rules

LA GRANGE, IL — A week ago, Impact Dance Studio, which has locations in La Grange and Countryside, announced it would again offer in-person dance classes starting this week.

In an email Monday, Countryside Police Chief Joseph Ford told Impact owner Diane Fotino that the plan for in-person classes would be in direct violation of the governor's Tier 3 pandemic rules.

"At this time, only 1-on-1 training is permissible," the chief wrote.

Ford sent a copy of the restrictions to Fotino. They say all competitive and group dance classes are prohibited during Tier 3.

It is unclear whether Impact has gone ahead with its plan to offer in-person classes. Patch has left messages with Fotino and asked employees answering the phone whether classes are being offered, but has been unable to get an answer.

Impact announced its decision to restart in-person classes through a mass email addressed to "Impact Families." Patch could find no information on the latest developments about Impact's plans on either its website or Facebook page.

In the email, Impact said it was following its "Safe Studio Standards." It links to a short video with Fotino describing the procedures during the pandemic. Among other things, they require the taking of participants' temperatures, wearing of masks and using of hand sanitizers.

The email also states that every single class is on Zoom for students who prefer taking part virtually.

Most municipalities tell the public they have no power to enforce the governor's order, saying that is the job of county health departments.