Winnetka Talk

Sacred Heart transforming tech center

Thu, 16 May 2013 04:49:34 -0500

Sacred Heart School is preparing to turn its technology center into something similar to what the kids may see in college, or their first job after graduation.

New Trier’s iPad program means fewer books, savings to families

Thu, 23 May 2013 10:08:00 -0500

NORTHFIELD — As New Trier High School prepares to implement their mobile learning initiative, the School Board is already seeing a drop in the number of textbooks needed. At their May 20 meeting the board approved textbook purchases for just nine courses for the next school year. “This may be the smallest number of books we have had to look at in years,” said assistant principal Paul Sally. “I think the changing e-book market and our move to the iPad is influencing that significantly.” The board approved new textbook orders for an applied arts class, five English courses, two science …

New Trier students, shoppers team up for troops

Thu, 23 May 2013 09:10:00 -0500

WINNETKA — Hoping to provide a community and national service, five juniors from New Trier High School teamed up in support of United States Troops serving overseas.

New Trier seeks larger net at Winnetka baseball field

Thu, 23 May 2013 06:54:40 -0500

WINNETKA — New Trier High School’s plan to install a larger backstop net at Duke Childs Baseball Field could be waved home if the village council approves the plan next month.

3 Brookfield Zoo dolphins expecting

Tue, 21 May 2013 11:48:20 -0500

Chicago Zoological Society officials say three Brookfield Zoo bottlenose dolphins are pregnant. Officials say Allie, 26, Tapeko, 31, and Spree, 10, are due to give birth this summer and fall.

Leaders speak at Winnetka Caucus spring meeting

Thu, 23 May 2013 06:54:19 -0500

WINNETKA — Village residents received updates on everything from finances to stormwater at the Winnetka Caucus Council’s Spring Town Meeting May 15. Representatives from the village’s four taxing bodies, The Winnetka Public Schools, The Winnetka Park District, The Winnetka-Northfield Public Library District and the Village Council, updated residents on progress made from the caucus’ earlier suggestions and took questions. School Board President Jon Kaplan highlighted the district’s improved electronic communication methods, which was something the caucus called for in their last survey. Kaplan also highlighted the district’s strategic planning and hefty reserves. “We have formed a financial subcommittee, explored options …

Dann rampage remembered 25 years later

Mon, 20 May 2013 09:44:01 -0500

May 20, 1988 is the day that many North Shore residents say their faith in the safety of their children’s school was damaged. That was the day that Laurie Dann, 30, who grew up in Glencoe, went on her rampage.

Winnetka officials plant seeds for beautification program

Thu, 16 May 2013 09:36:01 -0500

WINNETKA — The seeds are planted for a new floral beautification program due to debut this summer throughout Winnetka’s commercial districts.

Skokie Kids raise cash to honor young cancer victim

Thu, 16 May 2013 07:01:47 -0500

WINNETKA — In January, sixth-grade students at The Skokie School wanted to engage in a service project and they knew exactly who they wanted to raise money for. Only one month prior, a District 36 family suffered a loss when Leah Anderson, the 7-year-old daughter of sixth-grade teacher Shannon Anderson, lost her battle with brain cancer on Dec. 12, 2012. Shortly after their daughter’s diagnosis Shannon and her husband Michael set up the LEA Foundation (Live, Educate, to become Aware) to help raise money for pediatric cancer research. Students made their pitch to school administrators and “Leahpalooza” was born. “During …

Winnetka caucus seeks district 36 guidance for survey

Thu, 16 May 2013 07:06:36 -0500

WINNETKA — As the Winnetka Community Caucus prepares to draft its annual community survey, some caucus members appeared at the Winnetka Public Schools Board meeting May 7 to gather input on what questions should be asked. Katie Scullion, Chairperson of the Caucus Schools Committee, said she was there to represent the caucus and wanted to be sure they fully understand the district’s financial situation, goals and plans. The information will be used for the Winnetka Caucus Council’s annual survey, scheduled for September. Members of the caucus asked the board about the district’s financial philosophy, declining enrollment, budgeting, reducing costs and …

New staffing company says job market improving

Tue, 14 May 2013 08:52:00 -0500

“I really, truly want to put people to work. That drives me.” Those are the words of Jack Harriff, a former senior executive in the health care industry who a little less than a month ago opened the doors of his new Northfield human resources support agency, Express Employment Professionals.

Winnetka’s Lloyd Beach boat launch to open May 25

Thu, 16 May 2013 07:00:21 -0500

WINNETKA — Boaters in attendance at the May 9 Winnetka Park District meeting received great news as it appears record setting rains have made the Lloyd Beach boat launch usable this season.

Dold will run again in 2014

Tue, 14 May 2013 08:39:55 -0500

Former 10th District Congressman Bob Dold announced last week that he will run again in 2014, seeking to reclaim the seat he lost to U.S. Rep. Brad Schneider (D-10th) last November in the north suburban congressional district.

Mural depicts what Schechter education means to students

Mon, 13 May 2013 00:17:26 -0500

NORTHBROOK — More than a few giant steps backward are needed to admire the new colorful and meaningful mural at Solomon Schechter Day School in Northbrook.

Loyola Broadway program will be Gleeful experience for students

Thu, 16 May 2013 06:52:40 -0500

If your dreams of treading the stage, or helping bring the stage to life, goes beyond your school’s fall production, Wilmette’s Loyola Academy may be where you want to be this summer. That goes double if you happen to be a fan of “Glee.” Loyola will host “Broadway Break Thru Summer Intensive,” a program for children, teens and young adults who want to make a life in the performing arts from July 8 to July 13. One of their mentors will be Jonathan Groff, a star of the popular Fox television series. The program is the brainchild of David Petro, …

Northfield woman volunteers to be an example to kids

Tue, 14 May 2013 13:40:01 -0500

Every day is Mother’s Day for Karin Balsbaugh of Northfield. “Well, we’re thinking about our children and other people’s children,” she said, with a smile. We caught up with Balsbaugh at Rebuilding Together Day in Highland Park, where she joined fellow volunteers of Kenilworth Union Church.