News Briefs: Regina Dominican welcomes new president; Wilmette Block Party on Saturday; Winnetka plant sale coming up

Wilmette’s Regina Dominican High School installed its new president, Krista Gallagher, on Aug. 25, with a ceremony and Mass that brought together faculty, staff, students, current families, alumnae, supporters, and family and friends of Gallagher.

Gallagher holds degrees from Duke University and the Kellogg School at Northwestern University. Her work experience includes McKinsey & Company and JPMorgan Chase.

Gallagher spoke on Aug. 25 about her vision for the school.

“Regina Dominican takes that all-girls strength and wraps it in the envelope of Dominican values,” she said. “Truth-seeking, independent thinking and compassionate leadership are reinforced in every team, in every classroom and at every event. There is no greater source of confidence than the knowledge that God placed you here for a reason. Regina girls know that they are valued.”

Father Peter Wojcik (St. Clement Parish) presided over the Mass with Father Wayne Watts (Saints JFX Parish) and Father Robert Ryan (Saints JFX Parish). Executive Director of Dominican Veritas Ministries Dr. Kristin Melley led the installation ceremony.

According to a release from the school, Gallagher “brings a dynamic blend of leadership and marketing expertise along with a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to the values and mission of Regina Dominican’s Catholic educational community.​”

2024 Wilmette Block Party

The Village of Wilmette, Wilmette Park District and Wilmette-Kenilworth Chamber of Commerce are bringing the 2024 Wilmette Block Party back to downtown Wilmette this Saturday, Sept. 7.

The festivities will run from noon to 10 p.m. and are free to attend.

The live entertainment will kick off with Roger That, followed by The Heard, Big City Knights, and then Maggie Speaks, the headlining act.

Children can also enjoy games, activities and performances by Wendy and DB and the Jesse White Tumblers. Guests will find a variety of food and drinks available, as well as access to the many restaurants in Wilmette’s Village Center.

New this year, eventgoers of all ages can participate in a foam party. There will be timeslots for different age groups to get in on the fun, according to Lindsay Thomas, superintendent of operations for the Wilmette Park District.

Event organizers want guests to be aware of the limited parking in the area and are still seeking volunteers and donations. For more information about the event, visit the event webpage.

Native Plant Sale on Saturday in Winnetka

Go Green Winnetka’s fourth Fall Native Plant Sale is from 9-11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 7, at Indian Hill Park, 131 Wilson St. in Winnetka. The plant list, together with images and planting info for each of the plants, is now available on the organization’s website. 

Fall is the ideal time to plant, according to many horticulturists. With cooler temperatures and plenty of time for plants to establish their roots, your garden will be ready to flourish come spring.

The sale offers native plants that will bring life and color to your landscape while supporting local ecosystems.

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