News Briefs: Chamber’s new director; School band’s big day; Regina’s prestigous honors; Special game’s recap

The Wilmette/Kenilworth Chamber of Commerce has a new executive director.

Sara Jane Abbott has taken over the role after the departure of Jennifer Herren Gatesman, who held the position for the better part of four years.

Abbott, a Wilmette native, is the founder of See Jane Sparkle, a fashion boutique that sells fair-trade goods online and with a location in Skokie. A press release from the chamber says Abbott has 30 years of retail and marketing experience and “a deep understanding of the opportunities and challenges facing small businesses today.”

“I am honored to step into this role and serve such a vibrant and supportive business community,” Abbott said in the release. “My goal is to build strong connections, create impactful programming, and ensure our members feel seen, supported, and empowered to grow. I truly believe the Chamber can be a dynamic and proactive resource for our local businesses.”

Abbott took over the local chamber as interim executive director once Gatesman left. She also has served marketing director for the Evanston Chamber of Commerce.

Prior to Gatesman, the Wilmette/Kenilworth Chamber of Commerce was briefly by Cathy Voigt and for eight years by Julie Yusim.

“We are thrilled to welcome Sara Jane Abbott as our Executive Director,” said Laura Saleh, president of the chamber’s board of directors. “Her energy, creativity, and commitment to supporting local businesses make her the ideal leader to guide the Chamber into its next chapter.”

Junior high band is perfect

The Wilmette Junior High School symphonic band earned the highest possible ranking on April 25 at the Illinois Grade School Music Association Northern Division State Contest at New Trier High School, according to Wilmette District 39.

The ensemble, directed by Ann Dufrek, reportedly made program history by earning a perfect score across all judges. They achieved the high accolade of Superior and Distinction honors.

The performance was celebrated for its musical precision, artistry, and reflection on the dedication of student musicians and their director.

Regina presents annual Veritas Awards

Regina Dominican High School in Wilmette celebrated its annual St. Catherine of Siena Feast Day Mass on April 29 in part by presenting the Veritas Award.

The honor recognizes individuals who embody the spirit and values of a Dominican education, according to a press release from the school.

This year, the recipients were senior Grace Stadler and campus minister Dr. Meghan Toomey, who both” honorees “exemplify the Dominican pillars of prayer, study, community, and service.

According to Regina Dominican, “The Feast Day Mass and Veritas Award presentation serve as a powerful reminder of Regina Dominican’s mission to form young women of faith, purpose, and leadership, grounded in the enduring values of the Dominican tradition.”’

Third Chicagoland Jewish Basketball Showcase has plenty of locals

In the highest scoring game in the event’s three-year history, Team Tel Aviv pulled away late from Team Jerusalem for a 96-82 victory in the Chicagoland Jewish Basketball Showcase on April 29.

The game featured 17 of the top Jewish high school senior basketball players from the area, including David Isaacson and Evan Mintzer, of Highland Park High School; William Levy, of New Trier High School; Judah Well, of Ida Crown, in Skokie; and Srulie Lebedinsky and coach Sid Singer, of Fasman Yeshiva in Skokie.

“The level of Jewish basketball talent in the area is deep, far deeper than some people may realize,”  said Mike Kamin, the showcase’s director, in a press release. ” … These kids are eager to see how they measure up to their peers who they may or may not know about. It’s a lot of fun to see them all come together.”  

The event reportedly raised more than $2,000 for the Hadassah Medical Organization’s hospitals in Israel, which was almost double the amount from the previous year.

The showcase also includes players from the Latin School in Chicago, Glenbrook North, Stevenson, De  la Salle and Deerfield high schools.

Well scored 21 points for Team Tel Aviv, and Isaacson chipped in 14.

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