by Kristen Kucharski
FEATURING RESIDENTS WHO INSPIRE THE COMMUNITY IN THEIR OWN UNIQUE WAY
Each year Glancer Magazine features a distinct group of residents who are doing extraordinary things, making a difference in the lives of others by giving them hope, guidance or inspiration. Each is so talented and has persevered through all that COVID-19 has presented this past year. Their stories will touch your heart and awaken your spirit. Here are Glancer Magazine's 15 Fascinating Faces of 2020.
Raymond Rogina
ST. CHARLES–After five decades of public service as an educator at St. Charles East High School and Aurora University, as well as Mayor of St. Charles for two terms, Ray Rogina is not seeking re-election, but rather plans to enjoy his wife, son, daughter-in-law, and grandson while reflecting in writing about a diary he has maintained for the past 10 years.
In his own words, 2020 has been “A year of challenge and resiliency. A year of pain and discovery. A year to reshape one’s thinking,” and Ray has appreciated the challenge of balancing an economic crisis with a health crisis while participating in a number of development issues in the city that will set the stage for future positive growth.
He has hopes that 2021 and beyond will include visiting the remaining four States he has yet to see and more of Europe; perhaps complete his 16th marathon; add a fourth newspaper to his list of daily reads; watch a lot of baseball; and deepen his impact in the community through non-profit organizations in the Fox Valley area.
Photos by Mike Catuara
