‘Access Hollywood’ tape won’t be played at Donald Trump’s hush-money criminal trial, judge rules

The infamous “Access Hollywood” video in which Donald Trump bragged about grabbing women sexually without asking permission will not be shown to jurors at the former president’s hush-money criminal trial. Judge Juan M. Merchan ruled Monday that prosecutors can still question witnesses about the tape, which was made public in the final weeks of Trump’s 2016 White House campaign. But the judge said “it is not necessary that the tape itself be introduced into evidence or that it be played for the jury.” Merchan issued rulings on the “Access Hollywood” tape and other issues even after deciding last Friday to postpone the trial until at least mid-April.

Music teacher at Greenbriar School in Northbrook honored in Yamaha 40 under 40 Program

Jeremy Bartunek, a music teacher at Greenbriar School in Northbrook,  is among six Illinois educators honored by Yamaha in its 40 Under 40 Music Program. According to a news release, Bartunek joins Raymond William Cannon of Addison School District 4; Jena Combs, Director of Musical Activities for Flora High School; Jessica Corry, Band Director at Plank Junior High School in Oswego; Cale Patton, Music Teacher at Gillespie Technology Magnet Cluster School in Chicago;  and Ben Pedersen, Director of Bands at Foreman College and Career Academy in Chicago, in receiving the honors. “The six Illinois honorees possess action, courage, creativity and […]