Updated: October 15, 2012 1:51PM

Submissions for Community Calendar are required 14 days preceding the date of publication. Send to: Niles Managing Editor, Pioneer Press, 3701 W. Lake Ave., Glenview IL 60026. Information may be faxed to (847) 486-7495 or emailed to mbottari@pioneerlocal.com.

Center of Concern

The Center of Concern: 1580 N. Northwest Highway, Suite 310, Park Ridge, (847) 823-0453, calendar of events includes:

Aug. 20 and 27: Employment counseling, by appointment.

Aug. 21: Medicare counseling, by appointment (sponsored by the federally-funded Senior Health Insurance Program).

Aug. 22: Grief and loss support group (call first).

Aug. 25: Legal counseling, by appointment.

Aug. 25: Blood-pressure and blood-sugar testing, 10 a.m. — Noon (no appointment needed).

Other Services: Preparation of simple wills and durable powers of attorney for health care and property also available by appointment. Homeowners desiring additional income, companionship or the ability to remain in their homes may wish to consider The Center of Concern’s shared housing program. Residents are matched with screened applicants who possess a temperament suitable to shared accommodations. All services are offered at The Center of Concern offices at 1580 N. Northwest Highway, Suite 310, in Park Ridge. For services that require an appointment, call (847) 823-0453 Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.; or Friday 9 a.m. to Noon. The Center of Concern also offers friendly visitors for the homebound, programs designed to prevent homelessness, and volunteer opportunities in the office and in the field. Visit www.centerofconcern.org. Call (847) 823-0453 to schedule an appointment for any of the above services.

Homeowners: Those who desiring additional income, companionship, or the ability to remain in their homes may wish to consider the Center of Concern’s Shared Housing Program Residents are matched with screened applicants who possess a temperament suitable to shared accommodations.

Center Counselors: Also are available to help eligible residents apply for Illinois Circuit Breaker property tax relief grants and license plate discounts, Illinois Cares Rx (prescription drug assistance), the senior citizen real estate tax exemption and deferral, the senior citizen tax assessment freeze, and the long-time occupant homeowner property tax exemption.

Civic

Niles Township Clerk Office: Open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays and evenings by appointment on the second and fourth Mondays of each month to accommodate residents with passport applications, voter registrations and temporary handicapped parking placards. To schedule an appointment at Niles Township in Skokie, call (847) 673-9300.

Maine Township Neighborhood Watch: Meets at 7:30 p.m. the first Wednesday of every month in the basement of Maine Town Hall, 1700 Ballard Road in Park Ridge. Meetings address issues within the unincorporated area of the township and all residents are invited. Reports from the Cook County Sheriff’s Police, North Maine Fire Department, and the township’s Code Enforcement Department are shared, and residents are invited to ask questions and report concerns or problems in their neighborhood.

Arts/Crafts

Holiday Craft Fair: St. John Brebeuf’s Catholic Women’s Club will hold its annual Holiday Craft Fair from 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 11 in the May Parish Ministry Center, 8307 N. Harlem Ave., Niles. Any crafter wishing to receive an application may call Judi Stephens, (847) 296-6421.

Crafters: Needed for the annual Holiday Fair at Martin Luther Church, 6850 W. Addison St., Chicago, to be held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Oct. 20. Table rental fee and sample for raffle are required. Call (773) 777-8821.

Resurrection Fair: Applications are available for crafters who are interested in participating in the Resurrection College Prep High School Arts & Craft Fair from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 10 at 7500 W. Talcott Ave., Chicago. See www.reshs.org or contact Carol Marchetti at (773) 775-6616, Ext. 112, or cmarchetti@reshs.org.

Classes

Rainbow Animal Assisted Therapy Inc.: Offering “Introduction to Animal Assisted Therapy,” dog training classes at various locations, including 6042 W. Oakton St., in Morton Grove. The fee is $60. Contact Dorida King at dhking4@yahoo.com or call (773) 736-9021, for schedules and locations.

Clubs

Golf Event: St. John Brebeuf’s Holy Name Men’s Club is hosting a golf outing at Willowhill Golf Course in Northbrook on Aug. 19. The cost of $70 per golfer includes 18 holes of golf with a cart, snack during the round of golf, and a catered dinner at St. John’s Ministry Center following golf. Prizes will be presented at the banquet. For reservations, call Rich Gorski, (847) 967-1776, or Dennis O’Donovan, (224) 616-0753.

Sweet Singers: Congregation Ezras Israel Sweet Singers entertain at nursing homes, retirement facilities and charitable organizations, meets the first Wednesday of every month at 10 a.m. in the Rosenberg Auditorium of Ezras Israel, 7001 N. California Ave., Chicago. Those who enjoy singing are welcome to join. Call the Ezras Israel office at (773) 764-8320.

Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 7712: Meet at 7 p.m. every second Wednesday of the month at the Post at 7680 Caldwell Ave. (next to Tam Tennis in Niles on Howard Street). The Post is open on Fridays 7 p.m. until closing. All veterans from Vietnam, Gulf War, Afghanistan Korea and World War II are welcome. Call Bernard Beverley, (847) 966-5479, email jamesbond54762@yahoo.com or call (847) 470-9890.

Korean War Veterans Association: Greater Chicago Chapter No. 25, meets 7 p.m. the fourth Wednesday of each month at the Montclare-Leyden VFW Post, 6940 W. Diversey Ave. Call Joe Henmueller, (773) 774-9671.

The Knights of Columbus: North American Martyrs Council Chapter, Niles, provides ways for members to help others in the community while trying to improve their family and spiritual lives. Call Bob Galassi, (847) 965-0920.

Niles Chapter Toastmasters: Meets 7:15 p.m. the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month at the Morton Grove, 6140 Lincoln Ave. Members learn how to feel comfortable and have self-confidence talking to an audience. Call (847) 583-9328.

Community

Classic and Antique Car Show:The Polish National Alliance will host this event on the grounds of the Home Office Building, 6100 N. Cicero Ave., Chicago, from 1-5 p.m. Sept. 9. Rain date is Sept. 16. It will feature hot cars, food and music. Trophies will be awarded to the best cars. The car show is free and open to the public. Those wishing to participate showing off their cars, 1986 and older models, (muscle cars, antique cars, sports cars, classic cars, and motorcycles) must register; contact the PNA, (800) 621-3723, Ext. 380, or download a form from www.pna-znp.org, events section or from the car show link on the main page. Questions about the car show, call Dave at (847) 970-1040. Early registration fee before Sept. 1 is $5; onsite registration the day of the event will be $10, cash only.

Live concert: Local music pop star Andre Bellos will perform a free live concert in Center Court of Golf Mill Shopping Center at 3 p.m. Aug. 16. The performance will feature fan favorite, “Hit The Dance Floor.” Concert-goers will enjoy a live meet and greet with Bellos after the performance and have a chance to snap a photo and take home an autographed poster. The excitement will continue as Studio 22 High Tek Dance Team performs their award winning routines at 4:15 p.m. Director of Studio 22, Jackie Graney, is currently a Chicago Luvabull. Goody bags will be provided to the first 150 attendees. Also, event-goers can enter to win family four-packs of admission passes to Brookfield Zoo and their summer long temporary exhibit Xtreme Bugs, plus gift cards.

Polish American Night: The first Polish-American Night with the Chicago Fire vs. the New England Revolution at Toyota Park, 7000 S. Harlem Ave., Bridgeview, starts 7:30 p.m. Aug. 18. Price of premiere tickets $20. Tickets can be purchased from the Polish National Alliance, (800) 621-3723, Ext. 316; Polish Roman Catholic Union, (800) 772-8632, Ext. 2601; Polish Falcons of America, (574) 289-2140); the Polish Women’s Alliance, (888) 522-1898, Ext. 1208, or through Ed Kaczynski, (708) 496-6784. See www.pna-znp.org.

Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center: 9603 Woods Drive, Skokie; information: (847) 967-4800; reservations: (847) 967-4889, www.ilholocaustmuseum.org. Museum admission prices: General Admission, $12; seniors (65+), $8; students (ages 12-22), $8; children (ages 5-11), $6. Reservations required for programs.To Jan. 6, 2013: Special exhibition, “Spies, Traitors and Saboteurs: Fear and Freedom in America,” a creation of the International Spy Museum, explores this vital question through video, film, interactive displays and artifacts, offering an unprecedented perspective into the stories of espionage, treason, and deception that Americans have contended with since the founding days of the republic. Opening day, July 15, features talk with Anna Slafer, director of exhibitions and programs, International Spy Museum. Free with museum admission. Elusive Justice — Candice Bergen narrates this fascinating PBS documentary that reveals a more than six decades-long commitment to apprehending Nazi war criminals and placing them on trial for crimes against humanity, examining those who helped achieve justice as well as those who aided war criminals to escape; 1:30-3:30 p.m. Aug. 19. Free with Museum admission. Reservations recommended.

Solid Waste Agency: Northern Cook County, recently established a Battery Recycling Program for rechargeable and alkaline batteries, partnered with Interstate Batteries in Skokie to provide recycling at no cost to SWANCC communities. Common household batteries are no longer accepted at Illinois EPA-sponsored household chemical waste events and facilities due to their benign nature and high recycling costs. Batteries accepted in SWANCC’s program: Alkaline (AA, AAA, C, D and 9V) and rechargeable (NiCd, NiMh, lithium ion, lithium polymer). Before dropping off rechargeable batteries, residents need to tape the contact points on each battery or place in an individual self-locking plastic bag to avoid sparks. Local drop-off sites include: Niles Public Services Department, 6849 Touhy Ave., (847) 588-7900, 7 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Mondays through Fridays; Niles Village Hall, 1000 Civic Center Drive, (847) 588-8000, 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Mondays through Fridays; Park Ridge Public Works, 400 Busse Highway, (847) 318-5240, 7 a.m.-4 p.m., Mondays through Fridays. Additional drop-off sites are posted at swancc.org/recycling/batteryrecycling.html.

Solid Waste Agency: Northern Cook County has established a location for residents to drop off electronics on a weekly basis at no cost at the Glenview Transfer Station, 1151 N. River Road, 9-11:30 a.m. Saturdays. Under the new Electronics Products Recycling and Reuse Act (SB2313), only the following items accepted: Computers – PCs and laptops, scanners, computer monitors, mobile phones, peripherals – mice, keyboards, zip drives, MP3 players, televisions, PDAs – printers, VHS players, fax machines, DVD players, video game consoles, and DVR/cable boxes. Electronics from businesses, institutions or schools not accepted. Visit swancc.org.

Threshold Singers: Any women interested in joining the Rainbow Hospice and Palliative Care Threshold Singers can contact Kathy Huber at (847) 685-9900. Practices held on two Thursdays each month starting at 6:45 p.m. in Park Ridge. Threshold Singers are trained to sing in groups of two and three at the bedside of those who are sick and dying. Songs are generally traditional or simple rounds, chants, lullabies and hymns that can be chosen to respond to musical taste and spiritual direction. Singers go through patient care volunteer training, but there are no auditions; only requirements are a love of music and a desire to serve others.

Avenues Thrift Shoppe: Offers great prices and specials on gently used clothing for infants, children and adults, shoes, household items, books and small furniture. On Wednesdays, seniors 60 years and older receive 10 percent off all regularly priced items. Main shop is at 7710 W. Touhy Ave., Chicago, and the “boutique” shop at 7700 Touhy Ave., features upscale clothing, outerwear, collectibles and finer merchandise. Hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, and 1-8 p.m. Thursdays. Donations accepted 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays only. Donate only gently used clothing; broken or obsolete electronics not accepted. Purchases help adults with developmental disabilities. Avenues to Independence is a nonprofit organization based at 515 Busse Highway in Park Ridge that offers a variety of programs to enhance an individual’s work, social, and daily living skills. To donate or to volunteer, contact Michael Frustini, (773) 631-6230.

Fundraisers

Annual Wine Fest: The Norwood Park Historical Society will hold its annual Wine Fest from 4-7 p.m. Sept. 8 at the Noble-Seymour-Crippen House, Chicago’s oldest home, 5624 N. Newark Ave., Chicago. Participants will experience various wines and foods at a unique outdoor venue. Foremost Liquor Center will coordinate a “never-ending glass” of wine filled by a wide-ranging selection of flavors from around the world. The Wine Fest will offer gourmet cuisine provided by Honest Foods. Inside the Noble-Seymour-Crippen House, guests can bid on a silent auction featuring vacations, sports memorabilia, gift certificates, and wine merchandise. Tickets are $50 before Sept. 2 and $55 afterward, or $70 for VIP tickets, which includes high-end wines and an extra 45 minutes of tasting (beginning at 3:15 p.m.). The Wine Fest is one of the largest fund-raisers for the Norwood Park Historical Society. Guests must be 21 to attend. Tickets are available for purchase by phone at (773) 631-4633, email to info@norwoodparkhistoricalsociety.org or online at www.norwoodparkhistoricalsociety.org.

Township Garage Sale: Maine Township residents can reserve space for the annual Maine Township Community Garage Sale. Non-township residents can reserve space beginning Aug. 20. The event will be held rain or shine, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Oct. 6 in the parking lot of Maine Township Town Hall, 1700 Ballard Road, Park Ridge. Residents sell their own treasures, make a donation of cash or merchandise to the sale or come by and shop on the day of the sale. Spaces, which are 8- by 16-feet, are $20 each; table rentals are available for $10. Donated merchandise will be sold by Maine Township staff to help raise funds. Donations of small working electronics, children’s games, children’s furniture and accessories, garden tools and small hand tools are especially needed. Maine Township will not accept donations of clothes, large and/or heavy furniture, firearms, explosives or any type of weapons. Drop-offs will be accepted from Sept. 26 to 29, but not beforehand. Deadline for reserving space is Sept. 14. Proceeds benefit the MaineStay Adventure Camp for disadvantaged youth and the Township’s Emergency Food Pantry. Call Ed Beauvais, (847) 297-2510, Ext. 270, or email ebeauvais@mainetown.com. Information is also posted at www.mainetownship.com.

Like New Auto Spa, Inc.: 1050 Busse Highway, Park Ridge, has introduced a special fund-raising program that benefits Advocate Lutheran General Hospital/Advocate Lutheran General Children’s Hospital. Anyone who visits Like New to have their car washed or detailed or buys a gift card from the company and also asks for the Lutheran General discount will receive a price cut for the service, with a portion of the proceeds going specifically to benefit the Older Adult Services program of the hospital. Call AiMee Madden, Lutheran General Development Office, (847) 723-8518; Steve Radakovic at Like New Auto Spa, (847) 823-9274; or visit www.likenewautospa.com. The fundraising program is featured on the home page with a link to a more detailed flyer containing the discount and donation matrix. This offer not valid with an outside wash only, or any other promotion/program.

Health

Kidney and Diabetes Screening: The Polish National Alliance will have free kidney and diabetes screening at the PNA Office, 6100 N. Cicero Ave., Chicago, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sept. 15. The program will include blood pressure, blood sugar, body mass index, waste circumference, urinalysis, blood draw, and private consultations with medical professionals, through the Kidney Mobile program. Appointments are required; call (800) 621-3723 or (773) 286-0500, Ext, 380, or check www.pna-znp.org.

Whooping Cough Vaccine: All three of the Jewel-Osco Pharmacies in Niles are offering the whooping cough vaccine booster in response to recent whooping cough outbreaks across the state. It is recommended that all individuals ages 11 and older receive the vaccination, called Tdap, which specially-trained and certified pharmacists are available to administer. Consumers can obtain the vaccination at Jewel-Osco Pharmacies seven days a week and no appointment is necessary.

Advocate Lutheran General Hospital: hosts a free skin cancer screening from 9 a.m. to noon Sept. 8 for early detection and prevention of skin cancer. Visual screenings take place on the first floor of the hospital’s Center for Advanced Care, 1700 Luther Way, Park Ridge. Physicians will perform the screenings, and will give participants their results immediately. The physicians will also recommend follow-up care, if necessary. Free and open to the public, but registration is required. To register, call (800) 323-8622 and mention event code “8C03” or visit www.advocatehealth.com/luth click on “I need a class or support group” and type the class code (8C03) in the keyword box. Participants may park for free, with validation, in the parking garage adjacent to the Center for Advanced Care.

Advocate Medical Group: Providing immediate care and occupational health services at the Advocate Medical Group Patient Center, 7255 N. Caldwell Ave. in Niles. This will provide community members with convenient, quality medical care including treatment for non-life-threatening illnesses such as: Cuts and burns, sprains and bruises, eye injuries, flu symptoms, sore throats, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, ear aches, respiratory and urinary tract infections. The center provides easy access to X-ray and laboratory services to assist in diagnosis and treatment of these and other ailments. In addition, the clinic provides international travel medical services including for those planning a trip out of the country. Office hours are 7:30 a.m.-8 p.m. weekdays and Saturday and Sunday 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. Call, (847) 647-0355.

Golf Mill Hearing Aid Center: 8856 N. Milwaukee Ave., offering free hearing evaluations. All who come in will receive a comprehensive audiological evaluation. Call (847) 296-3344.

LYNX Therapeutics: 9436 Ozark Ave., Morton Grove, provides specialized occupational therapy services and learning instruction programs to children with physical, social, emotional, and learning difficulties. Pediatric developmental screenings offered at no cost. Contact: Ingrid Kenron at (847) 791-1631 or (847) 966-1505.

Fresenius Medical Care: Local dialysis clinic, 9371 N. Milwaukee Ave., has started a night-time program for dialysis patients. The new service allows patients to receive treatments in the clinic at night, for eight hours, while sleeping or resting, usually three times a week. In addition to having their days free for other activities, patients often report having more energy and better dialysis results. Medicare-certified Fresenius Medical Care Niles is now accepting new dialysis patients. Call (847) 581-0334.

Senior Advocate: Advocate Lutheran General Hospital offers free blood-pressure screenings 10 a.m.-noon the first Wednesday of every month at the hospital’s Patient Resource Center, 8820 W. Dempster St., Niles (across from the hospital). No appointment necessary. Call (847) 723-7277.

Historical Society

Family, friends and neighbors of: Marge Berles are invited to the Niles Historical Society to remember her with the planting and dedication of an Autumn Blaze maple tree in her honor at 2:00 p.m. Aug. 18 Niles Historical Museum, 8970 North Milwaukee Ave., Niles. R.S.V.P. by Aug. 15 by calling (847) 390-0160.

Niles Historical Museum: 8970 N. Milwaukee Ave., is open to the public 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Drop in, make arrangements for a tour, drop off artifacts and collections, or just come to visit. The new magnetic elevator makes the auditorium easily accessible. Call (847) 390-0160.

Library

Niles Public Library: 6960 W. Oakton St., (847) 663-1234 or online at www.nileslibrary.org. Registration is required for most programs unless indicated otherwise.

Programs for Kids:

Stuffed Animal Sleepover 6:30-7:30 p.m. Aug. 20. Bring your stuffed animal to a special pajama storytime, then your fuzzy friend gets to stay overnight at the library! For ages 2-8.

Saturday Family Movie: The Adventures of TinTin 2 p.m. Aug. 25. Free big-screen movie and a movie treat!

Lego Club: 4 p.m. Aug. 27. For ages 5 and up.

Captain Underpants Book Release Party (R): 4 p.m. Aug. 28. Unleash your inner silly superhero with games, crafts and goofy fun at our Captain Underpants Party! For grades 1-4.

New Releases:

ESL Club: 7-8:30 p.m. Aug. 21. New English speakers are invited to join this conversation club to practice speaking English. Meet people from all over the world to share personal stories and discuss current events and other topics chosen by the group.

Closed Captioned New Releases: Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close, 2-4:15 p.m. Aug. 16. Oskar is convinced that his father, who died on 9/11, has left a message for him hidden in the city so he searches NYC for the lock that fits a mysterious key he found in his father’s closet.

Niles’ Songwriters (R): 7:30-8:45 p.m. Aug. 16. Area songwriters are invited to bring original songs to share and get feedback from others in the group.

eBook and eReader Fair: 10:30 a.m.-Noon on Aug.18. Do you own an ereader or are you trying to decide which device is best for you? Drop by to try a variety of devices from Sony, Nook, Kindle, and iPad. Learn more about searching MyMediaMall’s ebook collection.

Google Calendar for Adult Beginners (R): 1-3 p.m. Aug. 18. Learn the basics of how to manage your busy work and personal life in the popular free companion to Gmail known as Google Calendar.

Knitting/Crochet Club: 3-4 p.m. Aug. 21.

Senior Coffee Hour: Oh Just Bury Me in the Backyard! (R): 10:30-11:30 a.m. Aug. 22. Loretta Downs, nationally recognized writer, hospice volunteer and President of the Chicago End-of-Life Care Coalition uses humor and stories to talk about death and dying. Learn how to discuss this delicate subject in positive terms.

Charles Dickens Film Discussion Series: Great Expectations 2-4 p.m. Aug. 23.

Summer Auto Boot Camp at C&M Auto Service (R): 6:30-9 p.m. Aug. 23. Get a detailed tour underneath your car, find out how to change a tire, check your oil, and more! Space limited to 12 participants for each class. Event is held at C&M Auto Service, 835 Milwaukee Ave. Glenview, IL 60025.

Property Taxes Seminar (R): 6:30-8:30 p.m. Aug. 29. Get tips to successfully maximize the reduction of your property taxes. Learn the appeals process, how to discover tax refunds and bill errors and uncover qualifying exemptions.

Smart Solution$: Preventing Predatory Loans (R) 6:30-8 p.m. Aug. 30. If you own a home or plan to buy, beware of unfair lending practices. Educate yourself about red flags when purchasing or refinancing a home.

Summer Reading Program: Learn about the Niles Public Library’s Summer Reading program. The “Reading Is So Delicious” program is open to ages 0-18, and offers free gifts for completed reading achievements. The program boasts a popular teen attraction for ages 12-18. For every reading log teens complete, they receive a to-go cold cup with a built-in straw. The cup contains a voucher redeemable at the mall for a free admission and Xtreme Bugs exhibit pass. Teens are eligible for the weekly restaurant giveaways and a drawing at the end of the summer for a grand prize — an Apple iPod touch.

Residents can recycle: Cell phones, certain ink toners and used eye glasses at the Niles Public Library. Drop off boxes are located in the Circulation lobby.

Help downloading eBooks: Go to www.nileslibrary.org/contactus and click on eBook Help or click on the Overdrive Download link on the home page to find step-by-step instruction sheets for different eBook readers as well as how to get started on My Media Mall. My Media Mall titles are now available for the Amazon Kindle.

Book Buddies: Students entering eighth grade in the fall and adults can become Book Buddies. Buddies read or listen to children read once a week for an hour. The Niles Public Library provides all materials and training.

Niles Public Library: Open on Sundays from 1-5 p.m. all year.

Smart Solutions: The Niles Public Library Smart Solutions initiative for adults 50 and older offers a program about credit scores and breakfast, which runs through November 2013. Be the first to hear about how to successfully manage your money and retirement future by attending programs, going online to the Smart Solution$ website (www.nileslibrary.org/smartsolutions), and viewing interactive and paneled displays on the library’s third floor. A representative from the Consumer and Family Economics, University of Illinois Extension Services will explain the purpose of a credit report. Patrons also learn how a credit score is used, how to order a free copy, and read and dispute errors. Reserve a spot by calling (847) 663-1234 or online at nileslibrary.org/calendar.

Chicago Chapter of SCORE: Weekly, counselors from SCORE, the Service Corps of Retired Executives, will be at the library to help small business owners and anyone considering starting a small business. SCORE counselors are successful executives and business owners who can help with a wide variety of business issues. These experienced businesspeople offer private one-hour sessions of business coaching. SCORE is a nonprofit association of volunteers. Weekly sessions held on alternating Tuesday evenings or Wednesday mornings. Sessions are free; but appointment is required. To set up an appointment online, visit the counseling page at www.scorechicago.org/. If there are questions, call (312) 353-7724 or email info@scorechicago.org.

Youth programs: On a drop-in basis ­— Baby time: 11 a.m. on Mondays, for babies age 2 and under. Continuous year-round drop-in program for children with an adult. Includes stories, songs, finger plays and extended playtime afterward. Rise & Shine Story Time: 10 a.m. on Thursdays, ages 2-6 with caregiver; enjoy stories, songs and more.

Maine Township

Maine Township’s FISH: Friends Indeed Serve and Help is in need of volunteer drivers to provide residents free transportation to medical facilities in and near Maine Township. Volunteers may choose how much time they wish to devote. Requirements include a current drivers license and proof of auto insurance. The program requires residents in need be mobile, or be able to use a cane or walker. FISH also asks that appointments be set three or more days in advance. To become a volunteer driver call Ed Oken at (847) 696-0761. To schedule a ride or for information call FISH coordinator Gloria Stepek at (847) 297-2510, Ext. 283.

Parks

Maine-Niles Association of Special Recreation: Offers people with physical and mental challenges, behavior and learning disorders, hearing and visual impairments and emotional disabilities an opportunity to enjoy a variety of recreation activities. MNASR serves Des Plaines, Golf-Maine, Lincolnwood, Morton Grove, Niles, Park Ridge and Skokie. To receive a seasonal brochure, or to offer support for people with special needs by volunteering, call (847) 966-5522.

Niles

Niles Park District: Offering private piano lessons (30-45 minutes) for beginning and intermediate students Wednesdays and Thursdays at Howard Leisure Center, 6676 W. Howard St. Lessons focus on fundamentals of technique, music theory and good practice habits. Call (847) 967-6633 to reserve a lesson time.

Golf Maine

Golf Maine Park District offices: Feldman Recreation Center, 8800 Kathy Lane (one block south of Golf Road on Western Avenue), Niles; or Dee Park, at the corner of Dee and Emerson Roads, Des Plaines; or call (847) 297-3000; www.gmpd.org.

October Hustle: Sign up for the district’s Youth Mile/Senior Walk at Dee Park on Oct. 13. Seniors, 60 years and older and youths, ages 7 to 14, can compete.

Preschool: 9-11:30 a.m. Mondays through Fridays; or 12:30-3 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays. Must turn 4 by Sept. 1, 2012. At Dee Park.

Kampus Kids/Child Care: Before and after school available for children in grades K-6 at Stevenson, Apollo and Mark Twain Schools.

Youth Fall Soccer: Ages 4 through eighth-grade. Practices are at Dee Park but games are played at Prairie Lakes Park in Des Plaines. Practices begin Aug. 24; games begin Sept. 8.

Zumba: Fun and easy Latin inspired workout. Ongoing classes 7:15 p.m. Mondays or Tuesdays at Feldman.

Ballet & Tap: Ages 3 years to adult ongoing classes year round. Dee and Feldman Parks.

Tae Kwon Do: Popular martial arts classes for children (ages 7-15) and adults offered on Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays all year round.

Resident Advisory Committee: The District is in the process of assembling a group of residents to offer their input to better serve future community programs and activities. Interested parties should contact the Director, Bret Fahnstrom at (847) 297-3000, Ext. 26, or email bret@gmpd.org.

Golf Maine Park District: Offers a selection of Energy Star qualified compact fluorescent light bulbs for sale to the public from a Lights for Learning kiosk. Proceeds from the sale of every bulb will directly fund the scholarship program sponsored by the district. The scholarship program allows children the opportunity to attend camp when they may not have the resources to do so on their own. The kiosk will also house the Lights for Learning teacher tool kits, designed for educators and organization leaders, to provide informational materials on the overall Lights for Learning Program. Energy Star Activity Books for children, as well as Energy Star home energy-conservation and electronics information, will be available. A recycling bin for used CFLs will also be available. CFLs may be purchased at Feldman Park, 8800 Kathy Lane, Niles, 8:30 a.m.-10:30 p.m. Call (847) 297-3000.

Golf Maine Park District: Offers the community an opportunity to recycle paper products. A recognizable green-and-yellow container supplied by Abitibi Bowater was dropped off in the Feldman Park lot, 8800 Kathy Lane, near the corner of Western Avenue and Kathy Lane. Products that can be recycled in this container include: newspapers, magazines, office paper (fax and copy), shopping catalogs, mail and envelopes, catalogs, folders, colored paper and shredded paper (bagged); no cardboard or phone books. All money raised will fund the scholarship program, allowing children to attend summer camp and other programs. Call (847) 297-3000 or go to www.paperretriever.com/.

Religion

Holy Trinity Episcopal Church: 8201 N. Karlov Ave., Skokie, holds Adult Christian Education classes following 10 a.m. Sunday services. Classes held on a variety of topics. A Fellowship Hour follows the 10 a.m. service each week with “Bring a Friend to Church and Brunch” the first Sunday of each month. Call the church (847) 673-1434.

Messiah Lutheran Church: 1605 Vernon Ave., Park Ridge, holds a Christian education hour 9 a.m. each Sunday, with worship service at 10:15 a.m. During the hour, Sunday school is in church parsonage; children from preschool-sixth grade welcome. Childcare services are available during worship. Call (847) 823-6984.

St. John Brebeuf: Adoration Chapel in the Parish Ministry Center, 8307 N. Harlem Ave., is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, for spiritual devotion, prayers and meditation. Call (847) 966-8145.

Ezra-Habonim: Niles Township Jewish Congregation, 4500 Dempster St., Skokie, offers Introduction to Judaism and beginning adult Hebrew classes on Sundays and monthly Yiddish. Members and nonmembers welcome. Call (847) 675-4141, or visit www.ehnt.org.

Reunions

Proviso East High School: The Class of 1972 hold a 40th class reunion, “Endless Summer Event,” Aug. 18 at the Drury Lane in Oak Brook. Visit www.provisoeast72.org or call Chris at (708) 848-4867.

Taft High School: The June 1961 Class holds a 50 + 1 reunion Sept. 21 to 23. Events held in Chicago and Arlington Heights. Email Taftjun61alums@aol.com; write to Taft 1961 Reunion, P.O. Box 369, Park Ridge IL 60068; or call John, (312) 208-2582.

Austin High School: Class of 1952 is planning a 60-year reunion, “Let’s Celebrate,” on Oct. 6. Email gabejacobsen@comcast.net or call (847) 255-8659.

Navy and Marine Corps: Shipmates who served on the USS Columbus CA-74/CG-12 will reunite Sept. 12 to 16 at the Holiday Inn Portland Airport, Portland, Ore. Contact Allen R. Hope, 3828 Hobson Road, Fort Wayne IN 46815-4505; call (260) 486-2221 from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Eastern time; email Hope4391@frontier.com.

St. John Brebeuf: Looking for all St. John Brebeuf School alumni. Alumni should contact Libby Ryder, (847) 966-3266, or email lryder@sjbschool.org, and submit their name, year graduated, address, phone number, maiden name (if applicable) and email address, and may share a story or tell how St. John Brebeuf made an impact on their lives.

Maine Seniors

Maine Township MaineStreamers: Offers a variety of opportunities for residents 55 and older. Membership includes a free subscription to the MaineStreamers monthly newsletter, which details activities for the upcoming month. Most activities are at Maine Town Hall, 1700 Ballard Road, Park Ridge, unless otherwise noted. Contact the MaineStreamers, (847) 297-2510, or go to www.mainetownship.com.

Maine Township: In cooperation with the Cook County Sheriff’s Office, Maine Township is collecting used cell phones to be converted for emergency 911 use for seniors. Donate phones at Maine Town Hall.

Senior Center

Niles Senior Center: The center offers membership to Niles residents age 55 and older and their spouses. Drop by the Niles Senior Center, 999 Civic Center Drive, Niles, or call (847) 588-8420 for an application. Visit www.vniles.com, click on Departments and then Senior. Registration required for most programs.

Arthritis Foundation Exercise Classes: Level 2 Beginners, 10-11 a.m. Wednesdays, to Dec. 19; balance sticks, sitting, standing, and gentle dance movements are included with this class. Level 4 Advanced, 9-10 a.m. Mondays, up to Dec. 17; includes weight training with under 3-pound weights, sitting and standing exercises. Level 1 Beginners/Pain Management, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Mondays, up to Dec. 17; includes gentle stretching, mostly seated in a chair. Classes filled on a first-come, first-serve basis. Cost for all levels is $10 members; $15 nonmembers.

Niles Senior Center: Caregiver Support Group is a source of practical and emotional help for caregivers, where issues such as hiring in-home help are frequently discussed. The group is facilitated by Niles Senior Center social workers who offer coping tools, help relieve caregiver stress, and offer a safe place for caregivers to receive the support of other community members dealing with similar challenges. Contact Bev Wessels at (847) 588-8420.

Walk-in Assistance: Help in filing the Senior Freeze Application is available 2-4 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday afternoons. No appointment necessary.

Circuit Breaker: Appointments now available by appointment only at the Niles Senior Center. Appointments are Friday mornings.

Celebrate Grandparents Day: 2-4 p.m. Sept. 9. $5/person. Bring your grandchildren to a good old-fashioned ice cream social, complete with games, prizes, and more! Advanced registration by Sept. 5 is required.

39 Steps at the Drury Lane Theatre: 10:30 a.m.-5:15 p.m. Aug. 16. $64 M/$69 NM. Mix a Hitchcock masterpiece with a juicy spy novel and then add a dash of Monty Python and what do you get? – this intriguing, thrilling, riotous, not-to-be-missed comedy. A cast of 4 plays over 150 characters in this fast-paced tale of an ordinary man on an extraordinarily entertaining adventure. Before the show begins, have lunch at Drury Lane featuring a choice of entrée: baked salmon in dill sauce or roast pork with apple sauerkraut. Menu choice made at time of registration.

Evening Concert Event with Father & Son Duo: 5:30-7:30 Aug. 22. $10 M/$15 NM. Bring your kids, grandkids, neighbors, and friends to this family-friendly event. Join these American classic folk/rock singers who also perform 1960’s rockabilly and country favorites made famous by Elvis, George Strait, Arlo Guthrie and more. Prior to concert, have an American light meal featuring a boneless breast of chicken sandwich, potato salad, and dessert (served at 5:30 p.m.) Advanced registration required.

Ice Cream Social and Scene It Game: 2:30-4 p.m. Sept. 4. $5 M/$7.50 NM. Build your own sundae with a variety of toppings and then join us in a game of “Scene It!” Watch scenes from legendary films and test your knowledge of the greatest movies of all time. Prizes awarded!

Fall BBQ: 11:15 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Sept. 7. $15 M/$20 NM. Join us for a very special BBQ as we say “Good-bye” to MaryAnn. Lunch features grilled burgers and brats with sides and dessert. Door prizes awarded; entertainment features Johnny Gray! Seating reserved. Tckets going rapidly.

Coffee and Cake to Say “Good-Bye”: 3 p.m. Sept. 7. Join Maryann for some cake to celebrate her retirement.

AARP Safe Driver’s Program: Tuesdays, Noon-4 p.m. Sept. 4 and 11. This refresher course for drivers age 50 and older is a two day class. Both days are required to receive the certification needed to be eligible for an insurance reduction (check with your insurance to find out if it recognizes this program). Payment is due on the first day of class and is payable to AARP. $12 for members of AARP; $14 for non-members. Advanced registration required.

Got the Dot? — It Could Save Your Life!: Assist first responders with the information they need. Become part of the Illinois Dot Program, a statewide initiative designed to provide vital medical information on vehicle drivers and passengers. Information contained on the medical card can assist first responders in the “Golden Hour” immediately following a serious crash. This can very well mean the difference between life and death. Contact the Niles Senior Center (847) 588-8420.

Summer Dinner and a Movie Schedule: Dinner at 5 p.m. — Movie starts 5:15 p.m. For detailed descriptions, contact the NSC (847) 588-8420. — Registration is required for movie and/or dinner.

Aug. 21: “Something Borrowed,” (PG-13, 112min). Dinner: pizza, soda, dessert, $5 M/$7.50 NM.

Aug. 28: “The Iron Lady,” (PG-13, 105min). Dinner: hot dog, chips, dessert, $2 M/$3 NM.

Register Now for Computer Classes beginning in September –

Pre Intro to Computers: Tuesdays and Thursdays, Sept. 4-13; 9-10:30 a.m. $25 M/$30NM.

Online Couponing: Monday and Wednesday, Sept. 10 and 12; 2-3 p.m. $6M/$9NM.

Computer Basics: Mondays and Wednesdays, Sept. 17-26; 2:30-3:30 p.m. $25 M/$30NM.

Niles Senior Center: Kitchen Band is looking for new members. Under the direction of ukulele-playing George Button, the popularity of this unique group of musicians has led to a very active performance schedule throughout Niles and the surrounding communities. If you like to sing, play the spoons, or are interested in learning how to play a ukulele, consider joining this fun group.

Computer Interest Group: Discuss all the recent computer innovations or individual problems or concerns. Contact Jaymi for dates, (847) 588-8420.

Niles Senior Center: Issues in the News meets at 9:30 a.m. Thursdays.

Effective Communications group: For persons with hearing loss meets from 11 a.m.-noon monthly. Learn about the latest equipment and devices. Contact Trudi, (847) 588-8441.

Niles Senior Center: The center offers a wide variety of support groups. Cost per group is $10, members; $15, nonmembers. Weight Management meets the first Thursday of the month from 1-2 p.m. Diabetic Management meets the second Thursday of the month from 1-2 p.m. Virtually Impaired Motivators (VIM) meets the third Tuesday of month, 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Cancer Survivor Group meets the third Thursday of the month, 1-2 p.m.

Sudoku Club: Meets from 11 a.m.-12:15 p.m. on the second and fourth Mondays of the month. Admission is free for members; $12 for six months for nonmembers.

Seniors

Golf Mill Shopping Center: Hosting “Feats of Fitness,” a mall-walking program Mondays through Saturdays, to enable seniors to walk within an enclosed environment. Health seminars and blood pressure screenings offered throughout the year every month from 9-10 a.m. on the second Wednesday. Call Golf Mill management office at (847) 699-1070.

Community Paint-a-Thon: Applications are available for this event to be held Sept. 8. The program provides for the painting of the exterior of a single-family home at no cost to those who qualify. Homes must be owned and occupied by people with limited financial resources and owners must be at least 60 years of age or have a permanent disability that hinders them from doing the work themselves. Call the Niles Senior Center, (847) 588-8420 or Catholic Charities, (847) 253-5500.

Mather’s–More Than a Cafe: Mather’s, 7134 W. Higgins Ave., invites adults 55 and older to experience professionally taught, free-to-moderate-priced programs such as lifelong learning programs, fitness classes, free blood-pressure checks and health screenings, free consumer seminars, special-interest workshops, special events and day trips. Call (773) 774-4804 for more information, except where noted. Chess Club for checkmate champs and new people who want to learn the rules and basic strategies. Sessions are Wednesdays at 1 p.m. Jazzercise – Jazzercise is a fitness program combining aerobic exercises with elements of jazz dance. A series of dance routines is set to popular music while incorporating yoga, Pilates, cardio-kickboxing, and other fitness styles. Classes move incrementally through different intensity levels, so anyone is welcome to join. Classes held at 11 a.m. on Wednesdays. Line Dancing is offered 11:15 a.m. on the first and third Tuesdays of each month. A variety of exercise classes available for every level. Gentle-moderate exercise class, 11:15 a.m. Mondays and 10 a.m. Tuesdays features a combination of seated and standing exercises for a complete cardiovascular workout. The moderate-high energy class is 11 a.m. on Thursdays and Fridays, with more of a challenge with cardio, strengthening, stretching, and toning routines. Computer Classes – All classes are four weeks and meet once a week for two hours. Begin with level one and advance through to level four. Classes are regularly forming and offered every month, $10 each. Protecting Your Identity: Attorney Philip Hendel will discuss identity theft and ways to prevent it at 1 p.m. Aug. 16. Donation is $3. Clark Weber: Weber will discuss the great Chicago music scene and share stories from his book, Clark Weber’s Rock and Roll Radio: The Fun Years, 1955-75, at 1 p.m. Aug. 20. Donation is $5. Dinner Theatre: Harp performance with Ben Melsky Aug. 24; dinner at 4:30 p.m., show at 5:30. Meal cost is $10/discount; entertainment is $8. Remodeling 101: Larry Rich, owner, Imperial Kitchen and Baths, will discuss how to maximize value with minimal investment, how to avoid remodeling pitfalls and warning signs to watch for when hiring a contractor at 1 p.m. Aug. 22. Understanding Dreams: Keren Vishny of the Jung Center will offer new insights to understanding dreams at 12:30 p.m. Aug. 30. Allen Pinkerton: Learn about the man who organized the first U.S. spy network, provided protection for President Abraham Lincoln and created the National Detective Agency at 1 p.m. Aug. 31. Dinner Theater: Join John Eskola and Pat Rusk as they present songs written for the Broadway stage Aug. 31; dinner starts at 4:30 p.m., show at 5:30. Meal cost is $10; suggested entertainment donation is $8.

CJE SeniorLife: Accepting applications for its Robineau Residence, 7550 N. Kostner Ave., in Skokie. Robineau offers a residential community composed of 24 affordable units in a one-story building, in a warm, friendly setting designed to serve seniors, 62-years and older, who may need a helping hand. Staff is available on-site, 24 hours a day, in case of emergency. Additional supportive services are available through CJE. Applicants should qualify for subsidized housing under the provisions of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Section 8 program. An additional monthly service fee is required. Scholarships available. For an application and tour of Robineau, contact Dorothy Levant at (847) 675-8580.

Super Seniors: Jewish Seniors group for people older than 60, meets 3-4:30 p.m. the first and third Sundays at the North Shore University Health System Skokie Hospital, 9600 Gross Point Road, Skokie. Topics include current events, books, jokes and Israel. Call (847) 583-9328.

Support

Diabetes support groups: Advocate Medical Group offers support meetings in the Nesset Pavilion, 1775 Ballard Road, Park Ridge. Adult Type 2 meets from 6-7 p.m. Aug. 23 (Diabetes Bingo). To register, call (847) 318-2500.

National Alliance on Mental Illness: Cook Country North Suburban Chapter, offers a Family-to-Family Education Program 7-9:30 p.m. Tuesdays, up to Aug. 28 at the Kenton Knox Center, 9701 N. Knox, Skokie. Free. To register, call (847) 716-2252.

Weight No More: Friendly weight loss support group welcomes new members. Discussions include weight loss tips, recipes, and helpful ideas to help participants reach their goals. Fees are $5 monthly to defray the room rental costs and small fines for weight gain. Meetings take place from 9:15-10:15 a.m. Fridays at the Howard Leisure Center, 6676 Howard St., Niles (elevator accessible). Call (847) 679-4229.

Lutheran General Hospital: Stroke Club for stroke survivors and their caregivers meets from 3-4:30 p.m. on the first Thursday of the month (except January and July) at the Outpatient Therapy Center, 9375 Church St., Des Plaines; use south entrance. Contact Meg Potterfield, (847) 723-4765.

Catholic Charities: Archdiocese of Chicago invites those who have experienced the loss of a loved one to suicide to participate in its Loving Outreach to Survivors of Suicide (LOSS) meetings at its Northwest office, 1717 Rand Road, Des Plaines. The minimum age for the monthly meetings or eight-session groups is 18 years old. If possible, call the LOSS office, (312) 655-7283, for an initial intake before the first meeting or visit www.catholiccharities.net/loss. Groups meet 7-9 p.m. on the second Sunday of each month and also on the second Wednesday of each month.

Families Anonymous: A support group for family members and friends who are concerned about and affected by the substance abuse or behavioral problems of a loved one. Group 831 meets at 10 a.m. every Friday at Carter Westminster Church, 4950 W. Pratt Ave., Skokie, in the basement; enter from parking lot in the rear. Group 173 meets at 7:30 p.m. every Monday (except holidays) at First United Methodist Church, 418 W. Touhy Ave., Park Ridge, in the Parlor Room, south portion of main level; use entrance at rear (Grant Place), across from the parking lot. No dues or fees required. First names only used at meetings to preserve individual anonymity. This is a nonprofessional and non-religious program. Call (773) 777-4442 or visit www.familiesanonymous.org.

NorthShore Hospice: The hospice is sponsoring grief support groups. Soul Mates is an ongoing support group for those who have experienced the death of a spouse or life partner. Group meets the second and fourth Tuesday of the month 6:30-8 p.m. at NorthShore University HealthSystem Home & Hospice Services office, 4901 Searle Parkway, Skokie. Legacy is an ongoing support group for adults who have experienced the death of a parent. Group meets the first and third Tuesday of the month 6:30-8 p.m. at NorthShore University HealthSystem Home & Hospice Services office, 4901 Searle Parkway, Skokie. Handicap accessible and parking available. To preregister for programs, call Thom Dennis, (847) 982-4364 or email dennis@northshore.org.

Tops Club Inc.: (Take Off Pounds Sensibly), an international weight-loss network of support groups, holds a local meeting weekly on Monday beginning at 5 p.m. at the Niles Park District Center, 6676 W. Howard St., Niles, on the lower level. Building is handicap accessible. Sensible eating, regular exercise, and ongoing support. Women, men, teens and preteens committed to attaining and maintaining a healthy weight are invited to join. Visitors welcome to visit their first TOPS meeting free of charge. Call (847) 966-4871 or, to find another local chapter, visit www.tops.org or call (800) 932-8677.

MOMS Club: Northern Chicagoland, holding weekly activities (such as play groups, outings, museums, park dates) and monthly member meetings and Moms Night Out. Call (773) 853-2834 or visit http://sites.google.com/site/momsclubofnorthernchicago or email chicagomomsclub@gmail.com.

One Hope United: Formerly Kids Hope United, is seeking foster, adoptive parents to provide homes for at-risk children. Call (847) 245-6543 or visit www.onehopeunited.org.

Maryville Crisis Nursery: 4015 N. Oak Park Ave., Chicago, offers twice-monthly tours of the facility. Tours held on the first Tuesday of each month at 10 a.m. and on the fourth Tuesday at 4 p.m. The Maryville Crisis Nursery is a safe haven for children, newborn to age 6, whose families are experiencing crises in their lives, such as job/medical issues, homelessness, domestic violence or other stressful situations. The nursery cares for children for up to 72 hours while parents concentrate on resolving the problems that are the root cause of the stress. No charges for services. Children are cared for by professionals and skilled childcare volunteers. The Maryville Crisis Nursery is available to those in need 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The 24 hour help line number is (773) 205-3637. Call (773) 205-3600.

National Alliance on Mental Illness: Cook County North Suburban NAMI invites the public to attend its Family Support Group for families of individuals with a mental illness. Program is free; meets 7-8:30 p.m. the third Tuesday of every month at the Nesset Center, 1775 Ballard Road, north of Advocate Lutheran General Hospital in Park Ridge. Free parking. Call (847) 716-2252.

TOPS Club: The local chapter meets 5 p.m. Mondays at the Niles Park District Center, 6676 W. Howard St., Niles, on the lower level (handicap accessible). TOPS meetings open to women, men and teens. Cost is nominal. Visitors welcome to attend their first TOPS meeting free of charge. Call (847) 966-4871; to find another local chapter, visit www.tops.org or call TOPS Headquarters at 1-800-932-8677.

Depression and Bipolar: Support Alliance-Greater Chicago has free support groups for people with mood disorders and support groups for their families. Meetings take place 6:30-8 p.m. on the first Monday of every month at Evanston Hospital, 2650 Ridge, Evanston, in Rooms G952 and 954. Call Elaine at (847) 674-6376.

Alzheimer’s Caregivers: A support group, co-sponsored by Advocate Medical Group and the Alzheimer’s Association, is offered monthly at the Nesset Pavilion on the campus of Advocate Lutheran General Hospital. Meets 1:30-3 p.m. the third Thursday of each month in lower-level conference room of Nesset Pavilion, 1775 Ballard Road, Park Ridge. Meetings are free; no registration required. Contact Sandy Guarise, (847) 318-2501.

Neptune Society: The largest independent cremation company in the nation is based in Des Plaines and is bringing comforting teddy bears to Chicago area children who are hurt, frightened or alone. The Neptune Society Teddy Bear Program names a teddy bear in honor of every person whose death care is handled by Neptune on the one-year anniversary of their death. The teddy bears are then donated to organizations such as Rainbow Hospice in Park Ridge and local fire departments to be given to a child in need.

Les Turner ALS Foundation: A support Group meets 7-8:30 p.m. the second Wednesday of every month at Temple Beth Israel, 3601 W. Dempster St., Skokie. For directions, call (847) 675-0951. Those attending are asked to notify Claire Owen, director of patient services, (847) 679-3311 or cowen@lesturnerals.org.

Grandparents As Caregivers: A program sponsored by Children’s Home+Aid, will offer grandparents an opportunity to meet other grandparents, share concerns and talk about interesting topics that will help them care for their grandchildren. Meetings are 10-11:30 a.m. the first Wednesday of the month at Niles Public Library, 6960 Oakton St. Free child care is available with 24-hour notice. Meetings are monthly. Call Linda, (847) 640-9590.

Stroke Club: Stroke Club at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital meets 3-4:30 p.m. the first Thursday of the month at the Outpatient Therapy Center, Church and Potter avenues, Des Plaines. Call Megan Potterfield, (847) 723-6690.

Holding Onto Hope: Monthly daytime group for widowed people grieving the loss of a spouse meets 1-2:30 p.m. the fourth Wednesday of the month at the Park Ridge Non-Profit Center, 720 Garden St. Registration is required. Admission is $5 per session. Call (847) 692-8884.

Rainbow Hospice: The Life Transitions Group is an ongoing support group for anyone who, as a general guideline, has been widowed for one to four years, meeting 7-8:30 p.m. the fourth Tuesday of the month at the Park Ridge Non-Profit Center, 720 Garden St., Park Ridge. The fee is $5 per session. Call (847) 692-8884.

Good Mourning Program: This Rainbow Hospice program meets 6:45-8 p.m. every third Monday of the month at Lutheran General Family Care Center, 9375 Church St., Des Plaines. The program is a support group for children, teens and families who have lost a loved one through death. Preliminary interview is required before registration. To register, call Rainbow Hospice and Palliative Care Bereavement Support, (847) 692-8884.

Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation: A support group meets 7:30-9:30 p.m. every third Thursday of the month at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital, 1775 Dempster St., Room 1063, Park Ridge. The focus is to assist patients with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis, their families, significant others and friends in coping more effectively with the illness. Call (847) 827-0404.

Resurrection Medical Center: The hospital sponsors a variety of free cancer-support groups for both patients and their family members. All support groups are free and meet in the Cancer Conference Room (ground floor, Entrance C), 7435 W. Talcott Ave., Chicago. Contact Carol Flanagan, (773) 792-5116.

Cancer Support: A group for cancer patients, families and friends meets monthly 7-8:30 p.m. every last Wednesday.

Leukemia & Lymphoma: A Family Support Group for people with leukemia, lymphoma, myelodysplastic syndrome, multiple myeloma, Hodgkin’s Disease and their families meets every first Wednesday of the month.

Butterfly Club: A support group for children ages 6 to 13 whose parent or caretaker has been diagnosed with cancer meets every first Wednesday of the month. Registration and parental consent required.

Us Too!: Prostate Cancer Support Group meets every second Wednesday of the month.

Teen: A cancer Support Group is for teens ages 13 to 18 whose parent or caretaker has been diagnosed with cancer meets every third Wednesday of the month. Registration and parental consent required.

Multiple Sclerosis: A support group meets the last Saturday of each month in the Resurrection Rehabilitation Center of Chicago, first floor, Professional Building, Entrance C. Call (773) 594-7856.

Alzheimer’s: A support Group meets the second Tuesday of the month in the Health Management Classroom. The session is free. Call Health Management, (773) 792-5022.

Afterglow: A support Group for stroke survivors and their family and friends meets the second Wednesday of the month in the Resurrection Rehabilitation Center of Chicago, first floor, Professional Building, Entrance C.

Parkinson’s: Support Group meets the third Wednesday of the month 5-7 p.m. at Resurrection Rehabilitation Center of Chicago, first floor, Professional Building, Entrance C. Call (773) 594-7866.

Advocate Lutheran General Hospital: LGH is forming a support network for women living with breast cancer. The Breast Cancer Networking Group meets 2-3 p.m. the third Tuesday of each month. Group provides breast-cancer survivors the opportunity to share information and experiences with other women. Meets at Lutheran General’s Center for Advanced Care, 1700 Luther Lane, Park Ridge, in the ground-floor conference room G104. Call (847) 723-8130.

Northwest Suburban: Interstitial Cystitis/Painful Bladder Syndrome Support Group of Illinois meets 7 p.m. the second Wednesday of each month in Advocate Lutheran General Hospital, 1775 Dempster St., Park Ridge, Conference Room 1064. Email bzarnikow@aol.com to be added to the email list for meeting announcements.

Alzheimer’s: A support group for caregivers and family members of people with Alzheimer’s Disease meets at 10:30 a.m. every second Saturday at Central Baptist Village, the Commons Theater Lounge, 4747 N. Canfield Ave., Norridge. New members welcome. Call Jessi Lenth (708) 583-8509.

Queen of All Saints: The church is hosting a weekly meeting for female survivors of sexual abuse. The meetings are 7-8:30 p.m. Mondays in the Benedict Center Chapel, 6275 N. Ionia. To participate in the confidential, 12-step program, call Queen of All Saints Rectory, (773) 736-6060. Additional meetings are 7-8:30 p.m. Fridays at St. Juliana Parish Center, 7200 Osceola Ave. Call Linda, (773) 271-2281.

Teen Center

Niles Youth Council: A group of teens from sixth through 12th grade who provide support and advice on Teen Center programming, develop leadership skills and work to serve the Niles community meets on the first and third Thursday of every month at 5:30 p.m. Stop to check them out. Call (847) 375-8949. The Teen Center is located at 373 Golf Mill Center in Niles.

Teen Center: The center is working with the Niles Senior Center to find teenagers willing to help senior citizens with leaf raking, snow shoveling and general yard work while earning money. Complete the Niles Teen Job Connection form available on the center Web site and return it to Mark at the center. Information will be shared with the director of the center and contacts made with residents in need of services.

Register your Bike: Contact Niles Teen Center or Niles Police Department regarding bike registration. Every year the Niles Police Department accumulates a number of lost or stolen bikes and is forced to sell them at an auction because their owners cannot be identified. By registering your bike, you are issued a Village of Niles Police Department sticker and your bicycle’s information is entered into a national database allowing the Police Department to reconnect you if it is ever lost or stolen.

Volunteers

Volunteer Drivers: FISH of Park Ridge is experiencing a 40 percent increase in ridership and needs to recruit more volunteer drivers (four hours per month). FISH has been providing free transportation to medical appointments for Maine Township residents. ContactEd Oken, president, (847) 696-0761. Send donations to: FISH of Park Ridge, P.O. Box 86, Park Ridge IL 60068. Fish is a 501-c3 organization; contributions are tax deductible.

Norwood Seniors Network: 6009 N. Nina Ave., Chicago, is seeking more volunteers to deliver freshly prepared low-cost meals each weekday to older adults in northwest Chicago or nearby suburbs. Volunteers are asked to make a minimum commitment of twice a month deliveries, using mapped routes. Each route takes from one to two hours to complete, and deliveries must be completed between 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Persons interested in volunteering must have their own vehicle and insurance. Call Kate Roche, director of volunteer services, at (773) 577-5329, email at kroche@norvolution.org, or visit www.norvolution.org.

Center of Concern: 1580 N. Northwest Highway, Park Ridge, a not-for-profit that serves the elderly and low-income families in the north and northwest city and suburbs, needs volunteers to help with a variety of medical, financial, legal, and computer issues. Flexible hours. The center needs volunteers to: Provide friendly visits and transportation to elderly clients; make telephone reassurance calls to the homebound and frail elderly; install, troubleshoot, and maintain computer hardware, software, and networks; produce video for the center’s website or fundraising campaigns; promote the center on Facebook and other social media; assist with public relations and facilitate media coverage of center events; prepare income tax returns for center clients; provide Medicare counseling (federally funded by the Senior Health Insurance Program); and prepare simple wills and durable powers of attorney for health care and property. Call (847) 823-0453 or visit www.centerofconcern.org.

Volunteers: Needed to serve as Court Watchers for Domestic Violence at the Skokie Courthouse. Being a Court Watcher is easy, convenient and rewarding. To volunteer for this very important program, contact Joanne Liberman at (847) 412-1577 or email Joanne at NonnyL@aol.com.

Avenues to Independence: Thrift Shoppe Team of Volunteers is looking for friendly, hard-working men and women to help staff the Thrift Shoppe, 7710 W. Touhy Ave., Chicago. Volunteers needed on a regular basis 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, or 1-8 p.m. Thursdays. Volunteers receive a discount. No experience needed. All proceeds from the Thrift Shoppe help Avenues continue valuable programs for adults with developmental disabilities. Call Michael Frustini, (847) 292-0870, Ext. 771.

Men’s and Women’s Association: Advocate Lutheran General Hospital is looking for new members. The community-based philanthropic and social organization raises funds for the hospital through a variety of events, including an annual golf outing, glove sale and concert. The organization’s donations have assisted the hospital in expanding programs, purchasing state-of-the-art medical equipment, and pursuing research and education initiatives. Yearly dues are $35. Call (847) 723-6105.

Rainbow Hospice and Palliative Care: Helping professionals who have been laid off stay current with their job skills (or gain experience if recently graduated) by offering professional volunteer opportunities. Possible opportunities include positions in medical records, human resources administration, community outreach, finance, marketing and admissions/customer service. Volunteers must have a willingness to make use of their professional skills and a positive attitude allowing them to take on a great deal of responsibility. Training and seminars for professional and personal development provided. Contact the Volunteer Coordinator at (847) 685-9900, ext. 3128, or rparrow@rainbowhospice.org. Visit www.rainbowhospice.org.

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