Local student with cerebral palsy receives award
It was clear at this week's Barrington Area Unit District 220 school board meeting that second-grader Danny Pop is not letting his cerebral palsy slow him down.
The school board honored Danny, a Countryside School student, for recently receiving the United Cerebral Palsy 2008 Infinitec North Technology Achievement Award.
He won the award for his flexibility, willingness and success at experimenting with new technologies, including a head-pointer to navigate through customized computer screens that enable him to talk, answer questions, brainstorm for writing projects and spell words for his weekly spelling test.
"He is one of the hardest-working students in the Barrington school district," said Kelly Key, the district's assistive technology coordinator.
Though he faces daily challenges in walking, talking and using his hands, those who know Danny say he comes to school each day with a big smile and keen interest in the world around him.
"We are so proud of Danny and all his hard work," Key said.
The school presented him with a special certificate honoring his achievement.
Infinitec is United Cerebral Palsy of Greater Chicago's assistive technology program. It provides state-of-the-art equipment, training and information about assistive technology to adults and children with disabilities.
Besides honoring students, the group also recognizes those in the community who have supported the program. Past recipients have included former Sen. Robert Dole and former House Speaker Dennis Hastert.
Sparrow luncheon: Friends of Home of the Sparrow is getting ready to host this year's benefit luncheon.
This year's event, "April in Paris" is scheduled for Thursday at Wynstone Country Club in North Barrington.
Boutique shopping starts at 9:30 a.m., followed by a gourmet luncheon at 11 a.m.
Tickets are $50. All proceeds benefit Home of the Sparrow, a transitional housing, counseling and job-skills training program serving women of the Northwest suburbs.
For more information and to reserve a seat, call at (847) 304-8669.
Balla visits library: After pending many years as a library assistant at Countryside School, longtime Barrington resident Jackie Balla got plenty of inspiration for her new children's book.
She'll show off her work, the recently published "No Buts, No Cuts, No Coconuts," during a presentation from 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday at the Barrington Area Library.
Besides visiting with students and their families, Balla will also read her book, which is available for sale. Proceeds from the book will go to Jeffery Pride Foundation for Pediatric Cancer Research.
The event is being sponsored by the Countryside Parent-Teacher Organization.