Prekindergarten conference planned

The Purdue University North Central Center for Early Childhood will be the local site for the Pre-K Now 2008 National Conference, "Breaking Down Barriers to Quality Pre-K: A National Strategy Session" on Dec. 10 the in Library-Student-Faculty Building Assembly Hall, Room 02, beginning at 11:45 a.m.

The intent of this event is to raise awareness about high quality early care and education in the community, which begins by developing a shared understanding of early childhood education and why it is important. Participants may register on line at http://events.preknow.org/page/event/detail/2008conferenceviewingsite/wrgj, but walk-ins are welcome. This presents an opportunity for educators, parents, school administrators legislators, business and community leaders and other decision-makers to gather to learn more about early childhood education, exchange ideas and promote quality education.

The PNC conference will be among a national network of conference sites. This is a live interactive event, combining a nationally broadcast program with a local group discussion. Registration is at 11:45 a.m. The televised portion of the event goes on the air at noon.

There will be a break during the broadcast that will give the local participants an opportunity to talk about information presented during the telecast and address local issues of concern with discussion leaders Dr. Janice E. Katz, founder and president, The Child Care Consortium/Imagination Station Child Development Center in Michigan City and Mr. Kent Davis, principal at Michigan City Area Schools Eastport Early Learning Center. The conference will conclude at about 1:30 p.m.

Last year, there were more than 130 conference sites throughout the country.

FYI: Call (219) 462-4197.

Enjoy a silent tea

The Purdue University North Central American Sign Language Club will host a Silent Tea from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Dec. 2 in the Library-Student-Faculty Building Assembly Hall, Room 02 on campus. The event is free and open to ASL students as well as community members. Children are welcome to attend with their parents or adult.

Coffee, hot tea and cookies will be served. Silent Tea participants are asked to use ASL only for conversation. Guests of all ASL abilities are welcome. This is an appropriate time to practice ASL to better communicate with friends, co-workers or family members. The tea will present a relaxed atmosphere for ASL conversation and games.

FYI: Call (219) 462-4197.

Toobin concludes 55th Sinai forum season

The 55th season of the Sinai Forum Presented by Purdue University North Central will conclude its season at 7:30 p.m. Dec. 7 at Elston Middle School in Michigan City with an appearance by author Jeffrey Toobin who will explore his bestselling book, "The Nine." His appearance is sponsored by Horizon Bank.

Heralded by the New York Times as one of the 10 best books of 2007, "The Nine" provides an inside look at the workings of the Supreme Court. Having been given unprecedented access to the "Supremes," as the justices are called, Toobin's insights into the often mysterious workings of the highest judicial body and its members provide never-before released information. Toobin has been called "a very serious speaker with a great sense of humor" and has delighted audiences across the country and across the political spectrum.

Toobin is known for his unbiased analysis of matters of American law, politics and procedure. He is able to provide a look into the workings of The Supreme Count and its influence, and how the 2008 presidential election will shape the court, and ultimately, the nation.

"The Nine" will be available for purchase and Toobin will sign copies after the program.

The 55th season of the Forum is dedicated to the memory of its founder Sylvia Bankoff. All Sinai Forum programs are held at Elston Middle School, 317 Detroit St., Michigan City. Subscription tickets may be purchased in person from the Michigan City Public Library, Kabelin Hardware, 512 Andrews Ave., LaPorte and at PNC - Porter County Graduate Center, 600 Vale Park Road, Valparaiso. Subscriptions may be purchased via credit card by calling (219) 785-5697. Any student with a valid ID will be admitted free.

FYI: Call (219) 462-4197.