Posted by Laura Nelson on January 18, 2010
Children can play by themselves, or with others, in 13 separate play spaces at the new Kids Town Play & Party in Wheaton. Designed especially for children six years and younger, colorful decor and accessories stimulates kids to pretend. Children can be a vet, fireman, princess, entertainer, construction engineer, or play quietly in the reading room.
There’s a climbing area that includes crawling and sliding equipment too. A party room is available for private events which can be held during, or after, open hours.
Kids Town Play & Party is open for public play Monday through Saturday at 1141 E. Butterfield Rd. (near Fox Bowl), Wheaton. (630) 260-8545. For details, visit www.kidstownplayandplarty.com.
Posted by Laura Nelson on January 18, 2010
Tim Rappe knew in 1993 that he was tired of selling radio advertising, power lunching and travel that kept him away from home. When he compiled a list of things that were important to him, kids and baseball were at the top. Rappe used his sales skills on Jerry Reinsdorf, owner of the Chicago White Sox and Bulls, to promote the training academy concept.
Tim Rappe, President, White Sox Training Academy
1994 brought the debut of White Sox summer camps throughout Chicagoland, with Chicago Bulls programs added in 1999. The summer camps were a tremendous success, and Rappe recognized the need for winter programs for aspiring athletes. Reinsdorf loved the idea of a permanent training academy, and put money behind the three story, 57,000 square foot complex in Lisle that has become a baseball, softball, basketball mecca, which opened in 2001.
Satellite facilities in LaGrange, Schererville, IN, Tinley Park and the new Ackerman Sports Complex in Glen Ellyn have been added since. About 10,000 kids each year participate in White Sox-sponsored academy programs.
The White Sox Training Academy is at 6200 River Bend Drive, Lisle. (630) 324-8221or BullsSoxAcademy.com.
Posted by Laura Nelson on January 18, 2010
With the Olympics coming in February this year, it’s a great time to get a foundation for everybody’s favorite sport, figure skating. Skating is a skill that provides lifelong enjoyment. New students will learn correct skating techniques, have fun, and develop new friendships. Advanced students will learn about competitive skating programs.
Classes begin January 15 for boys and girls from ages 3 to adult. Skate rental is available. See the ad on page 15 of our paper for a substantial discount at both Carol Stream Ice Rink and Downers Grove Icearena.
