In This Issue Of New Trier Thrive…

🌤️ New Trier Township Weather

🔦 Local Business Spotlight

📆 Local Events… Check Them Out! 🎞️🍽️🛎️

👮‍♂️ Crime Reports & Public Safety

📰 Local News

📢 Xmas Tree Pick Up

📰 Illinois News

🏈🏀 High School Sports Schedules

🏈🏀🏒 Professional Sports Schedules

💓 Community Service 🤝

Melody Spa A Tranquil Oasis In Downtown Wilmette

Owner, Kathy Liu, will greet you with warm hospitality at her welcoming spa, melt your aches and pains away with a relaxing massage by skilled therapists.

Escape this Holiday Season to Melody Spa In Downtown Wilmette - Book a Stress Relieving Reflexology Treatment or Therapeutic Massage Hot Stones & Gift Certificates Available (847) 906-4484 💆🏻‍♀️

1109 Central Avenue Mon-Sat 10 - 9 p.m. Sun 11-8 p.m.

Attention Local Business Owners!

There's real power in choosing local. Every time we walk into your stores or use your services, it strengthens the community. And behind every service, product, or daily special, we know there’s an owner with a vision and a story worth hearing.

🌟Spotlight on You – The Heart of Our Neighborhood🌟

"New Trier Thrive" is all about celebrating the businesses that make our area unique. We're looking for the innovators, the neighborhood favorites, the hard workers making our daily lives better and brighter.

If that sounds like you, let's connect! Drop us a line, tell us what you’re all about, and let's introduce your business to the neighbors who are excited to support you. Join us in showcasing the best of local. Send a message – let’s get the conversation rolling!

Do you own a Business in New Trier Township?

*Application Submissions just re-opened for 2024*

Select an option: 👇

❤️ Own a local business? Apply to be featured!

❤️Love a local business? Share the love & nominate!

#NEWTRIERTHRIVE

Events For Kids & Family

Sky Zone Trampoline Park- Just Opened! Hours 9am - 9pm Everyday

Family Lego Drop-in Tuesday, January 02: 2:30pm - 4:30pm Wilmette Public Library - Youth Program Room. Drop in to play and build with our Lego and Duplo bricks. Children under 5 must be accompanied by an adult.

Third Annual Willow Hill Lights Drive-Thru Holiday Event Now thru Jan 6, 2024 -1350 Willow Road Northbrook

Classes for Kindergarten through Adults! Winter Classes at The Laughing Academy in Glenview- Now - February 24 Join us in studio for games, improv, scene work, and tons more! We also promise lots of laughs!

Winter Scavenger Hunt: The Great Snowflake Search Wilmette Historical Museum Now - Feb 15, 2024

Shrek The Musical  Now- thru Dec 31 *Half priced tickets for 25 yrs & younger North Shore Center For The Performing Arts - Skokie

Bobby Lewis, Andy Brown and Stewart Miller Jazz Trio - Early New Year's Concert Friday, December 29 7:00 - 8:00 p.m. Wilmette Public Library Auditorium. Celebrate 2024 at the library's traditional early New Year's concert. Local favorites trumpeter Bobby Lewis, guitarist Andy Brown, and bassist Stewart Miller will return to play jazz favorites, including tracks from Bobby's new cd, No Expiration Date. Space is very limited, and overflow guests may not be accommodated. Doors will open at 6:40pm. Please arrive early to ensure your seat.

New Year’s Eve Bash @ Kohl Children’s Museum Sunday, Dec 31 Two sessions available 8:30 - 11 a.m. 12:30 - 3 p.m. At “midnight” gather in & take part in a Times Square style mega confetti drop! Family Photos, Crafts, Juggling, Kid’s concert, Dance Party & More! Bring the family-Kids under 12 mos are FREE

Become A Petfluencer (Virtual) For Teens and Adults Friday, January 5 5:00pm - 6:00pm Zoom Adult/Teen. Wilmette Public Library Event. Make your pet a star on social media to kick off 2024. Pick up social media tips and tricks to build a following for your beloved pet with this overview of tools and best practices for pet content creators. Register at link above.

Puppet Show with Firefly Family Theater - For The Whole Family Saturday, January 6 10:00 a.m. - 10:45 a.m. Wilmette Public Library Auditorium. Snow came early in Firefly Grove this year, so Spark the Firefly gets to experience her first snow day! Join Spark as she learns all about snow, hibernation and exciting winter activities like sledding and ice skating. Spark's Snow Day includes puppets, original music, interactive movement and lots of winter fun for families! The show is recommended for ages 2-7. Space is limited. Tickets will be given out on a first come, first served basis at the Youth Desk starting at 9am.

Events For Adults

Cine’Club Join a group of 12 to 15 online for a discussion in French of a French film with English subtitles. 1:30 -3:30 p.m. Every 2nd Thursday of the month until April 10, 2024 .

Game On! Board Gaming for Adults. Drop-in. Meets monthly on the Third Tuesday of Every month. Glenview Public Library

Wine Tasting At Good Grapes in Winnetka -Saturday, December 30, 2 p.m. – 5 p.m. No Saturday afternoon is complete without a wine tasting in a relaxed social setting. Wines will vary in price, taste, and body. Saturday tastings are typically complimentary. Occasionally we open special bottles and there is a $5-$10 fee. No advance ticket purchase necessary - just stop by. Cheers!

The Last Laugh! The End of The Year as We Know It! Thursday, December 28, 8:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. Get the last laugh with Chicago’s most hilarious Comics. Bringing you the best of the Chicago comedy scene, right here in the 'burbs with free parking and BYOB!! The Laughing Academy 3230 Glenview Rd - Glenview

Evanston Made Members Group Show: Photography & Mixed Media - Jan 6 - 31, 2024 Join us for the Opening Reception; Wednesday, January 6, 4-7pm, . Gallery OTR, 2040 Brown Ave Evanston-Gallery Hours: Thursdays 3-6p, Fridays 3-6pm, Sat & Sun 12-3pm

Sit & Knit Program Thursday, January 11 2:30 - 3:30 pm Northfield Library Community Room. Come hang out with fellow knitters in the Northfield Community Room. All levels of experience are welcome. Basic supplies will be available, and a library staff member will be available to help beginners.1785 Orchard Lane Northfield 847-446-5990

Intro to Energy Healing With Animals Monday, January 22- 7:00 - 8:30 pm Cost FREE Start the healing process with your animals using energy healing to help build or strengthen the human-animal connection. Infinity Foundation - Highland Park

The Rich and Romantic History of Valentines Sunday Feb 4, 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm Part exhibit, part historical talk, part workshop, join Ellie as she celebrates her very favorite holiday! Northfield Library 1785 Orchard Ln 847- 446-5990

Titanic The Exhibition Starts Friday, February 16, The visit will take around 1 hour - Location: Westfield Old Orchard, Skokie All ages are welcome! Children under 4 enter free of charge Price: Adult tickets starting at $29.50

Have an upcoming event you want us to share?

Wilmette Weekly Incident Report

- Multiple bicycles stolen in unlocked conditions

- Suspect caught attempting to break into vehicles, had stolen goods

- Truck window smashed and gifts/alcohol stolen

- Attempted break-in through rear door, no entry made

- Food stolen from doorstep delivery

- Camera stolen from residence

- Expensive bracelet stolen from home

- Driver crashed car, admitted to drinking, failed sobriety test and was arrested for DUI

The report summarizes incidents of thefts, burglaries, and a DUI arrest in Wilmette over the past week. Readers are reminded suspects are innocent until proven guilty. This condensed version highlights the main events without full details. Full report can be found here

Winnetka:

What can I do to ensure that my home/business is secure? Contact the Winnetka Police Department’s Crime Prevention Unit at 847-501-6034 and request a security survey of your residence or business. There is no charge for this service.

Does the police department offer a House Watch service? When making vacation plans, and whenever a house will be unoccupied for a period of time, residents are urged to contact the Winnetka Police Department to request their home be placed on its "House Watch List." House Watch request forms are available on the Village website or call Records at 847-501-6034.

Northfield:

Key Box Program The Key Box Program allows community members to store a spare key with the Police Department in case of emergency or loss of access. Spare keys are kept in a secure lock box and can only be released to authorized individuals identified by the key owner. If you are interested in participating in this program to ensure access to your home even if your keys are misplaced, please contact the Police Department to enroll. Officers can explain the simple registration process that aims to give peace of mind through a trusted contingency plan for any missing key situation. Joining the program is completely voluntary but strongly encouraged as a smart backup plan for the unexpected. Complete the Key Box Program Application form.

House Watch Program .While you're away, the Northfield Police Department's House Watch Program keeps an eye on your home to help prevent and detect crime. This free service monitors enrolled residences to deter illegal activity. If you'll be out of town and want your home included in the program, simply fill out the House Watch Form

Kenilworth:

Vacant Home Watch If your home will be vacant for over 24 hours, consider enrolling it in our Vacant Home Watch program. This service allows Kenilworth police officers to periodically check on your home while you are away, ensuring doors and windows are secure.

To request a Vacant Home Watch, complete the online request form on our website or pick up a paper form at the station. After submitting the completed form via email, mail, fax or in-person drop-off, you will receive a confirmation of receipt within 24 hours so you know your home has been enrolled.

The Vacant Home Watch service is commonly used by residents while on vacation and those moving in or out of a home, but can be utilized whenever your home will be vacant. Officers will walk around the exterior during periodic checks, looking for signs of entry or other issues.

For additional questions about Kenilworth’s Vacant Home Watch or to confirm your enrollment, please call the police department at 847-251-2141. By enrolling your unoccupied home, you can travel or relocate with greater peace of mind.

Glencoe:

House Watch – If you're leaving your home for more than a day or two, let Public Safety know and they’ll have officers walk the perimeter of your home every few days to ensure it is secure. Schedule your House Watch by calling (847) 835-4112

Glenview:

Over the past week, the Glenview Police Department responded to numerous theft and burglary reports. This included a vehicular hijacking at a gas station where a masked suspect stole a Mercedes at gunpoint, injuring the victim. 10 winter coats were stolen by a group of male suspects from a retail store on Tower Dr. There were also multiple residential and vehicle burglaries where suspects broke into homes and vehicles and stole personal items and jewelry. Other incidents involved retail theft from stores, forgery of checks, identity theft involving an unauthorized bank withdrawal, and trespassing. Towards the end of the week, there was an armed robbery where a masked suspect with a handgun stole belongings from victims.

In total, it seems there was an uptick in property crimes like theft and burglary, as well as some violent crimes against victims like the vehicular hijacking and armed robbery. The police reports indicate the department is actively investigating many of these cases to identify suspects and stolen property.

Full Report can be found online for 1 month.

New Trier Jazz Stars Named YoungArts Winners

Two New Trier High School students, senior Robert (Duke) Baur and senior Miriam Goroff-Behel, have been named 2024 YoungArts award winners. This prestigious national competition recognizes nearly 700 of the most talented young performing, literary, and visual artists across the country each year. Baur and Goroff-Behel, who play tenor and alto saxophone respectively, were selected in the jazz category from over 9,000 applicants in 10 artistic areas. They are two of only four students chosen from Illinois for this honor.

In addition to receiving a monetary prize, the students will have access to professional development, funding, performance opportunities, and a network of artists to collaborate with going forward. Both Baur and Goroff-Behel participate in multiple jazz ensembles and programs outside of school, demonstrating their dedication to developing as musicians. However, their distinct musical styles and approaches make them unique, according to New Trier Director of Jazz Ensembles Nic Meyer.

The YoungArts program aligns with Baur and Goroff-Behel's plans to study music in college. As winners, they join an esteemed group of accomplished artists like Timothée Chalamet, Viola Davis, Amanda Gorman, and others recognized by the program earlier in their careers. More information about YoungArts and its mission can be found on their website. The students credit their teachers and mentors with challenging them and helping shape their artistic growth. Goroff-Behel shares that her ultimate goal is to create and perform impactful, inspiring music.

Village of Winnetka🎄Curbside Tree Pick Up

Attention Village Residents: From January 2nd through 16th, discarded Christmas trees will be collected at the curb for recycling. Please remove all decorations, wires, stand, plastic wraps and bags before setting trees out.

Trees must be placed on the curb by 7AM on January 16th to ensure pickup during this special collection period. We cannot collect trees after this date. In addition to trees, bagged brush and branches will also be accepted for composting until January 16th.

When the brush collection program resumes in March, only compostable bags may be used.

After January 16th, standard yard waste guidelines and fees apply. Please call 847-716-3568 with any questions on our waste diversion efforts, compostable bag requirements, or for details on curbside placement.

Put Some Extra Cash in Your Pocket This New Year… Check Illinois' Unclaimed Property Database

The New year is right around the corner, and the Illinois Treasurer's office wants residents to know that there may be forgotten money or property waiting for them. The state's unclaimed property database, called I-Cash, contains millions of dollars in cash and assets linked to names like Santa and Rudolph that belong to Illinois citizens.

What exactly is unclaimed property? It refers to monetary accounts or assets held by banks, insurance companies, utilities, and other businesses that have had no activity after a period of inactivity. This money legally must be turned over to the Illinois Treasurer's office, which safeguards it until the rightful owner comes forward.

An estimated 25% of Illinois adults who search the I-Cash database discover forgotten assets, with the average claim totaling $1,000. Since taking office, Treasurer Michael Frerichs has returned nearly $2 billion through over 200,000 claims per year. The office even proactively sends letters to thousands of residents after identifying likely matches in state databases.

This season, the Treasurer's office wants to spread holiday cheer by making it easy to check if your loved ones have surprise money waiting. The I-Cash website now features a "share" function that allows you to enter friends and family to see if they have unclaimed assets. If you find a match, you can instantly share the good news via email or text message directly through the site.

So if you or your loved ones need a little extra cash this new year, be sure to check out Illinois' unclaimed property database. You never know what forgotten money or assets may be waiting for you!

New Illinois Law Allows Victims To Sue Over AI-Created Fake Porn

A new Illinois law taking effect January 1st will allow victims of digitally-altered sexual imagery, often referred to as deepfake porn, to take legal action against content creators. House Bill 2123, known as the Digital Forgeries Act, was introduced by State Rep. Jennifer Gong-Gershowitz (D-Glenview) and State Senator Mary Edly Allen (D-Libertyville). It unanimously passed both legislative chambers earlier this year before being signed into law by the governor in July.

The legislation builds upon the existing Civil Remedies for Nonconsensual Dissemination of Private Sexual Images Act, which enables victims of revenge porn to file lawsuits. It expands the definition of banned content to include sexually explicit deepfakes - realistic but fake video or images generated by artificial intelligence. While public figures have been frequent targets, the technology has also been used to create fake pornography featuring unsuspecting teenagers.

Per an estimate from deepfake detection firm Sentity, 96% of deepfakes are nonconsensual, AI-altered pornography depicting women, often celebrities. This new law provides victims in Illinois with legal recourse against such exploitation. It comes months after Rep. Gong-Gershowitz and Sen. Edly-Allen visited the White House to discuss combating online harassment. In October, President Biden signed an executive order mandating new standards around AI safety and security.

Sen. Edly-Allen stated the need to balance developing AI technology while protecting people from potential harms. She applauded the Biden administration for taking action to address the humiliation and harassment enabled by unchecked AI systems.

Please Support Our Local Community Businesses
👇👇Click Their Images To Visit Their Websites 👇👇

HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS SCOOP🏀🏈🏒 

NEW TRIER TREVIANS Schedule/Tickets

LOYOLA ACADEMY RAMBLERS Schedule

REGINA DOMINICAN 🏀Schedule/Tickets

NORTH SHORE COUNTRY DAY RAIDERS Schedule/Tickets

CHICAGO BEARS SCHEDULE 🏈

CHICAGO BLACKHAWKS 🏒 CHICAGO BULLS 🏀

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Charitable Donations & Shopping

| North Shore Exchange | 1100 Central Ave, Wilmette | www.northshoreexchange.org | HUGE DESIGNER SALE HAPPENING NOW AT BOTH LOCATIONS

| North Shore Exchange | 372 Hazel Ave, Glencoe | http://northshoreexchange.org/collections/glencoe-collection |

| YWCA Shop for Good | 1107 Central Ave, Wilmette | www.ywca-ens.org 

| Winnetka Thrift Shop | 992 Green Bay Rd Winnetka, | https://www.winnetkathriftshop.org/ |

| Village Treasure House | 1460 Paddock Drive Northbrook, IL 60062 | https://www.villagetreasurehouse.org/

We could use your help…we’ve got big plans as we get up to speed! But we need your help! One huge way that you can help us is to spread the word for us.

Know somebody who lives in the Wilmette, Kenilworth, Winnetka, Glencoe, Northfield, and East Glenview areas and would benefit from being kept in the know?

Please share New Trier Thrive with them! It’s simple! 👇👇👇