Updated: June 4, 2012 10:38AM

Submissions for Community Calendar are required two weeks preceding the date of publication. Send to: Mary Ann Bottari, Pioneer Press, 3701 W. Lake Ave., Glenview IL 60026; mbottari@pioneerlocal.com. Information may be faxed to (847) 486-7495.

Agenda

City of Park Ridge: The following meetings take place in City Hall, 505 Butler Place, unless otherwise noted. For a complete agenda, call City Hall at (847) 318-5200:

May 7: City Council, 7 p.m.

May 8: Human Needs Task Force, 8:30 a.m.; Heritage Committee, 3:45 p.m.; Chief’s Advisory Task Force, 7 p.m., Public Works Service Center, 400 Busse Highway; Library Board Committees, 7 p.m., Park Ridge Public Library, 20 S. Prospect Ave.; Planning & Zoning Commission, 7 p.m.; Public Art Commission, 7 p.m.

May 10: Board of Fire and Police Commissioners, 6-9:30 p.m. Fire Department Administration Building, 901 W. Devon Ave.; Park Ridge Youth Commission, 7 p.m.; Library Board Committees, 7 p.m., Park Ridge Public Library.

Chamber

Park Ridge Chamber of Commerce: 720 Garden St., (847) 825-3121; www.parkridgechamber.org; e-mail info@parkridgechamber.org:

May 4, 6-8 p.m.: First Fridays Elementary Learning Foundation “Share and Share” Event and Pop Up Market at 116 Main St. Visit www.firstfridayspr.com. May 9, 11 a.m.-1:30 p.m.: Monthly Networking Luncheon at Chicago Marriott O’Hare, 8535 W. Higgins Road, Chicago. Michael Wynne, author of eBook Total Profitability, Hundreds of Ways to Grow Your Profits, shares ideas and insights one can apply a business right away. Members $25; prospective members $30. May 10, 8:45-10:15 a.m.: Tech Forum – Ben Wilson, The Falkor Group, will moderate “The Cloud for Small and Medium Sized Business: How Does a Business Leverage the Cloud?” Another copy of Office 2010 will be given away. May 11, 10 a.m.-3 p.m.: Annual North Shore Women’s Conference Luncheon at Marriott Lincolnshire Resort, 10 Marriott Drive, Lincolnshire. Keynote speaker Catherine Johns. Fee of $32 includes lunch. Visit www.northshorewomensconference.org. May 14, 4-7 p.m.: Family Dental Care Park Ridge Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting, 111 S. Washington St., #202, Join Mayor Schmidt and Chamber Board members. May 14,7-8:30 p.m.: Park Ridge Chamber SCORE Counseling Topic is “Going into Business” at the Park Ridge Public Library; reserve a seat by calling the Chamber. May 16, 5-7 p.m.: Multi Chamber Business After Hours LIN-MAR Motors, 5940 W. Oakton St., Morton Grove. Network among members of neighboring Chambers, including: Niles, Skokie, Morton Grove, Wilmette, Edgebrook and Park Ridge. Springtime theme of hot dogs, beer, pop, chips. No charge. May 17, 8-9:30 a.m.: Park Ridge Chamber SCORE Counseling Workshop, “Taking Your Business Online.” Call Chamber; space is limited. May 23, 9-10:30 a.m.: Chamber Health Care Forum Meeting, 720 Garden St. May 28, 9:45-11 a.m.: Join the Chamber and participate in the annual Park Ridge Memorial Day parade. Chamber’s assembly point is on the north side of Talcott, midblock between Prospect and Fairview avenues, # 31. Parade begins at 10 a.m. Call chamber if participating. May 29, 9-10 a.m.: Chamber New Member Orientation Meeting, 720 Garden St., hosted by the Chamber Ambassadors. May 29, 6-7:30 p.m.: Chamber Retail Roundtable Meeting, 720 Garden St. - Group formed to allow retailers the opportunity to discuss issues of interest. Email info@ParkRidgeChamber.org to participate.

Park Ridge Chamber of Commerce: Participating in a Multi-Chamber Luncheon from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. May 15 at the Westin Hotel O’Hare in the Grand Ballroom A, 6100 River Road, Rosemont. Keynote speaker is Andy Shaw, president and CEO of the Better Government Association. Shaw is also an award-winning Chicago journalist who spent 37 years covering local, state and national politics, business, education, and day-to-day news at the City News Bureau of Chicago, Chicago Sun-Times, NBC 5 and ABC 7. Reservations are required. Cost is $25 for Chamber members, $30 for prospective members. Call (847) 825-3121 or email info@ParkRidgeChamber.org.

Retail Committee: Park Ridge Chamber of Commerce, presents First Fridays, a series of local events to provide an evening of art, music shopping and dining for area residents. Activities are planned for Uptown and South Park area shops and restaurants, most of which are offering specials for each event. Each event takes place on the first Friday of the month.

Civic

Republican Women-Park Ridge: Meetings take place at 7 p.m. on the third Thursday of every month at South Park Recreation Center, 833 Talcott Road. E-mail RWOPR@ymail.com or go to www.republicanwomenofparkridge.com.

Maine Township Neighborhood Watch: Meets at 7:30 p.m. on 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 any concerns or problems in their neighborhood.

Classes

Edison Park Lutheran Church: North Hall, 6626 N. Oliphant Ave., Chicago, hosts an Opera Appreciation class from 9:30-10:30 a.m. every Tuesday, year round (across the street from the Edison Park Metra Train Station). Listen to arias from famous operas as introduced by Babs Lieberman of the Lyric Opera of Chicago. Fee is $20 for eight weeks. Light refreshments. Parking available. Call Diane, (773) 774-6097.

Clubs

Polish National Alliance: North Side Seniors. Meeting at 10 a.m. May 9 at the PNA Home Office Cafeteria, 6100 N. Cicero Ave., Chicago. Doors will open about 9:15 a.m. Items to be discussed will include the Polish-American Night at U.S. Cellular Field on July 3; Polish-American Day at Six Flags Great America, June 2; and the North Side Seniors luncheon on June 6. All seniors ages 55 and older (nonmembers also) invited. Refreshments will be served. There is plenty of parking available in the lot behind the building. Call (773) 286-0500, Ext. 316, or visit www.pna-znp.org and click on “Events.”

Twenty First Star Chapter: National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution will hold a general meeting at 11:30 a.m. May 9 at the Park Ridge Country Club, 636 N. Prospect Ave., Park Ridge. Lunch will be served at noon with a meeting and program to follow. Hostesses for the day are Nancy Gutreuter, Lois Stenstrom; Barbara Hale, chairman. Regent Joy Martin will present “The Year in Review”; delegates to the State Conference will have a report; the newly elected officers will be installed; and past Regents will be recognized. A special celebration of junior members, new and prospective members will end the 2011-12 chapter year in June. Women in the northwest area who are interested in membership in the DAR and are able to prove direct descent from a patriot who served during the American Revolution, may contact Dorothy Wilson at (847) 328-6946.

Park Ridge Garden Club: Meeting at 7 p.m. May 10 in the Community Room of the Senior Center, 100 S. Western Ave. Speakers will be Garden Cub members Inge Serpe and Lynn Crowley who will give a demonstration about creating hypertufa containers made of concrete mix, moss and fibers. These natural looking containers can be quite expensive at garden centers. and will last for years. All are welcome. The Garden Club is also preparing for its May 19 Annual Plant Sale in Hodges Park from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Plants grown by members as well perennials, vegetable, annuals and herbal plants will be available for sale. The Garden Club is a member of the National Garden Clubs Inc., Central Region and The Garden Clubs of Illinois Inc. District IX.

Park Ridge Panhellenic Club: Holding its annual Scholarship Awards Luncheon beginning at noon May 4 at the Park Ridge Country Club, 636 N. Prospect Ave. Membership is open to alumnae of college Greek letter sororities. Women who are interested may call Betty Jaacks at (847) 823-0660. Members are reminded to bring donations for the Maine Township Food Pantry.

Des Plaines Camera Club: Meets on the second and fourth Monday of each month, September through May. Meetings are held at 7 p.m. at the Des Plaines Park District’s field house at Arndt Park, 1990 White St. in Des Plaines. Meetings are conducted in a casual atmosphere that include workshops, lectures, demonstrations and inter-club competitions. The club also provides the opportunity to share ideas and techniques with fellow photographers. As a club, members are part of the Chicago Area Camera Club Association and the Photographic Society of America. Visit www.desplainescameraclub.com.

Park Ridge Garden Club: Meets at 7 p.m. on the second Thursday of the month in the Community Room of the Senior Center, 100 S. Western Ave. All are welcome. The Garden Club is a member of the Garden Clubs of Illinois, Inc., District IX and the National Garden Clubs, Inc., Central Region.

Des Plaines Toastmasters Club: No. 1645, meets on the first, third, and (where applicable) fifth Mondays of every month, from 7-8:45 p.m. in the Des Plaines Public Library, 1501 Ellinwood St., in Room A. The Des Plaines chapter is one of a global network of clubs in Toastmasters International through which men and women of every ethnicity, educational level and profession meet to build their competence in communication so they can gain the confidence to lead others. Contact Hap at (847) 635-6351 or hap@therainreport.com, or view www.desplainestoastmasters.org.

Park Ridge Toastmasters Club: Provides its members with a communication and leadership development program and is a member club of Toastmasters International. The club meets at 7:30 p.m. on the second and fourth Thursdays at the First United Methodist Church, 418 W. Touhy Ave. Call Cruz Bernal-Albano at (847) 702-5044 or visit www.parkridgetoastmasters.com.

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

Des Plaines Geology Society: Meets at 8 p.m. the third Thursday of the month at the Des Plaines Leisure Center, 2222 Birch St., Des Plaines (north of Touhy Avenue, between River and Mannheim roads).

Community

Arts & Crafts Adventure: Presented by American Society of Artists in Hodges Park, 101 S Courtland Ave., in uptown Park Ridge, from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. May 12. Artists and craftsartists will present their work ranging from paintings and photography to woodworking, artwear, fabric crafts, jewelry and more. Local exhibitors will include Lois Bacarella and Rosali Papelera of Park Ridge, Karen Johnson of Niles and Laura Nigro, Norridge. Students in the Lincoln Middle School eight-grade Design Engineering Club and Show Me the Money seventh-grade students will have work on display by their teacher Timothy Moore. These products for sale will include decorative and functional plastic products made of various polymers of sheet plastic as well as some resin plastic. Admission is free. Call (847) 991-4748 or go to www.americansocietyofartists.org.

MaineStay: EARN (Encourage Adolescent Responsibility Now) program helps link Maine Township residents who need help and willing young people between the ages of 12 and 19 who are looking for work to earn some money. (Seasonal work may include spring cleaning, yard clean-up, window washing, or getting the garden ready for planting. MaineStay also helps makes connections for other jobs such as a late-season snowfall that might still be on the horizon or year-round jobs such as childcare.) Negotiating the cost for the services is up to the resident and the young person who takes on the job. If interested in registering as a resident who needs services or as young person who wants work, call Gloria Stepek at (847) 297-2510, Ext. 283, or visit www.mainetownship.com.

Park Ridge residents: No longer place any of the following electronic items in refuse or recycling bins for disposal: televisions, monitors, printers, computers (including tablet computers), electronic keyboards, facsimile machines, videocassette recorders, portable digital music players, digital video disc players, video game consoles, small scale servers, scanners, electronic mice, digital converter boxes, cable receivers, satellite receivers, and digital video disc recorders. According to the city, ARC Disposal will not collect these items. Electronics can, however, be dropped off at the Solid Waste Agency of Northern Cook County’s Glenview Transfer Station, 1151 N. River Road, from 9-11:30 a.m. Saturdays. Other options are included on SWANCC’s website, www.swancc.org.

Illinois Holocaust Museum/Education Center: 9603 Woods Drive, Skokie, information: (847) 967-4800, reservations: (847) 967-4889, www.ilholocaustmuseum.org. Reservations required for programs. Museum admission prices: General Admission, $12; seniors (65+), $8; students (ages 12-22), $8; children (ages 5-11), $6. Through June 17: Special Exhibition — Ours to Fight for: American Jews in the Second World War. Through their artifacts, letters, and photographs, the “Greatest Generation” tell the stories of what the war was like for all its participants, and for Jews in particular. Ours to Fight for brings to life the actions and feelings of these young men and women. Free with Museum admission. In honor of those who serve, all active or retired military personnel and their families will receive complimentary Museum admission for the duration of Ours to Fight For: American Jews in the Second World War; up to four people will be admitted with a valid ID or VA card. May 10, 6:30-8 p.m.: Howard Reich, jazz critic for the Chicago Tribune and son of Holocaust survivors, moderates a panel of American and foreign-born Jewish GIs The veterans will reflect on their wartime experiences, and the impact their religious affiliation had on their time in the service. Free with Museum admission. May 17, 7:30 p.m.: Barbara Taylor Bradford, international best-selling author, will be the guest speaker at AMIT’s Mother-in-Israel event. Her newest book, “Letter From A Stranger,” focuses on the Holocaust. Event raises funds for housing, education and social services for thousands of children in AMIT facilities throughout Israel. To attend, contact AMIT, (847) 677-3800; amitchicago@amitchildren.org.

St. Paul of the Cross Catechesis: Seeking video and photographs for a centennial movie project celebrating the parish’s 100 years in Park Ridge. Organizers are looking for photos or home movies of activities filmed at St. Paul. To make a submission, e-mail spcmovieproject@gmail.com or stop by the Catechesis Office, 215 Ridge Terrace in Park Ridge. Any DVDs dropped off or mailed to the office will not be returned. Call (847) 692-2758 or visit www.spc-catechesis.net.

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; 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 baggie 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. to 4 p.m., Mondays through Fridays. Additional drop-off sites are posted at swancc.org/recycling/batteryrecycling.html.

Rainbow Hospice/Palliative Care Threshold Singers: Any women interested can contact Kathy Huber at (847) 685-9900. Practices are 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. The 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. The main shop is located at 7710 W. Touhy Ave. in 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 are accepted 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays only. Donate only gently-used clothing; broken or obsolete electronics cannot be 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. For information on donations or to volunteer, contact Michael Frustini, (773) 631-6230.

The Park Ridge Historical Society: Located at Solomon Cottage, 721 N. Prospect Ave., on the grounds of the Park Ridge Youth Campus. See www.pennyville.org.

Center of Concern

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

Mondays, May 7, 14, 21: Employment counseling, by appointment.

Monday, May 14: Alzheimer’s Caregivers support group, 10 a.m.

Tuesday, May 15: Medicare counseling, by appointment (sponsored by the federally funded Senior Health Insurance Program).

Wednesdays, May 16, 30: Grief and loss support group (call first).

Thursday, May 3: Center of Concern annual meeting (public invited), 7 p.m., Park Ridge Senior Center, 100 S. Western Ave., Park Ridge.

Saturdays, May 5 and 19: Legal counseling, by appointment.

Saturday, May 19: Blood pressure and blood sugar testing, 10 a.m.-noon (no appointment needed).

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.

Park Ridge residents: Those facing financial difficulties can receive support for housing costs, groceries, gasoline, and public transportation at the Center of Concern, 1580 N. Northwest Highway in Park Ridge. For a complete overview of the center’s programs, visit www.centerofconcern.org

Preparation: Simple wills and durable powers of attorney for health care and property also available by appointment. All services are offered at the Center of Concern offices at 1580 N. Northwest Highway, # 310, in Park Ridge. For services that require an appointment, call (847) 823-0453 weekdays, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. (The center is open only until noon on Fridays.) The Center of Concern also offers housing counseling for seniors and others seeking affordable housing, programs designed to prevent homelessness, friendly visitors for the homebound, and volunteer opportunities in the office and in the field. See www.centerofconcern.org.

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.

Food Drives

St. Cyprian’s Food Panty: Needs items such as stuffing, gravy mixes, canned yams, mashed potato mixes, cranberry sauce, canned pumpkin, corn and pumpkin bread mix, canned hams and olives. Always in need are canned fruits and vegetables, canned soups and chili, rice and beans, pasta and canned pasta sauce, coffee, tea and breakfast cereal.

Christian Care & Fellowship: St. Paul Lutheran Church & School, 5650 N. Canfield, Norwood Park, collects food to be taken to St. Cyprian’s Food Pantry. Donations are welcome. The pantry’s needs change monthly. Call (708) 867-5044, or visit www.stpaulcanfield.org.

Fundraisers

Public invited: Car wash from 8 a.m.-1 p.m. May 12 at Park Ridge Presbyterian Church, 1300 W. Crescent Ave. Motorists may leave their cars in the parking lot for washing and attend the Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast at the church until 11 a.m. Breakfast tickets at the door are $7 for adults, $4 for children under 12. Proceeds of the car wash will help fund this year’s youth mission trip to Joplin, Mo., where students and adults will join other churches in a joint effort to provide relief work for those residents still recovering from last May’s tornado. Call the church office, (847) 823-4135.

Registration: Open for the first “Father’s Day Kickin’ Grass” 5K Run in Park Ridge. This chip-timed race takes place at 9 a.m. June 17 on the grass around Maine East High School, 2601 W. Dempster St. Cash prizes for top male and female finishers, age-category awards, and T-shirts for all participants are just some of the highlights. Register by June 3. Kick off your father’s day with this healthy new 5K tradition.

Adult Down Syndrome Center: A benefit for the Adult Down Syndrome Center in Park Ridge takes place from 6:30-8 p.m. May 24 at The Ponds of Wealshire, 170 Jamestown Lane, Lincolnshire. This is a fun community event open to all ages with dancing to music through the ages provided by A-Z Entertainment, Ltd. and demonstrations from Fred Astaire Dance Studios. Attendees will also enjoy a catered buffet and participate in the chance to win raffle prizes from nearly 15 local establishments. Free admission to the general public. Raffle tickets may be purchased at the event or in advance for $1 per ticket or $5 for six tickets. Reserve a spot by calling (224) 543-70709 by May 17. The Adult Down Syndrome Center is a program of Advocate Lutheran General Hospital and Advocate Medical Group, providing comprehensive, multi-disciplinary medical and psychosocial care for adolescents and adults with Down Syndrome.

Mary, Seat of Wisdom Church: MSW, 920 Granville Ave., Park Ridge, is hosting production of “Sunday School Cinema” at 3 p.m. May 20 in the school’s Kalas Center (enter off the back lot of the school). Written by Park Ridge’s Vicki Quade, this fast-paced show is a spin-off of the famous “Late Night Catechism” productions. Tickets are $20 in advance, $25 at the door. Proceeds will be used to support parish programs. For tickets, call Matt Furjanic at (847) 825-8763 or go to www.mswparish.org.

National ALS Awareness Month: Hundreds of volunteers with the Les Turner ALS Foundation will participate in Tag Days drives. In Park Ridge on May 12, volunteers will be stationed at intersections, shopping areas, train stations, and other places throughout communities collecting donations to help fight ALS, commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s disease. Call (84) 679-3311 or visit www.lesturnerals.org.

Kalo Foundation: Kalo is expanding its educational outreach to residents of all ages with “Passport to Park Ridge’s Past,” a treasure hunt on May 12 focusing on 15 artistic sites in the city. Children and family teams will participate between 9-11 a.m. An adult walk will be held from 10 a.m. to noon. Teams will be invited to follow clues to visit each site, learn a little history, and get a passport stamped. Those who complete all 15 sites will be entered in a prize drawing. This will be a fundraiser for Kalo, so participants are asked to gather pledges for that part of the adventure they complete. The ”Passport” event will start from two city landmark locations with direct links to the Artist Colony, the Park Ridge NonProfit Center at 720 Garden St. (at Fairview), former home of artists Walter Marshall Clute and his wife, Beulah Mitchell Clute (1905-1915), and the Kalo Foundation’s new headquarters, the Iannelli Studios Heritage Center, 255 N. Northwest Highway, home of the Iannelli Studios for five decades. Margaret and Alfonso Iannelli moved to Park Ridge in 1919. The event is also one of the first activities for Kalo Kidz, a new outreach within the Kalo Foundation which plans to offer kid-friendly events that educate, encourage local pride, and opportunities for community service. See www.kalofoundation.org or call (847) 261-4595.

Have Dreams: This local nonprofit will hold a garage sale to benefit its scholarship fund for children with autism. Anyone who would like to donate may bring gently-used items to its location at 515 Busse Hwy., Suite 150, Park Ridge. The sale will be held May 5 at the Evanston site, 2020 Dempster St.

Corks for a Cure: A benefit for the American Brain Tumor Association will take place from 7-10 p.m. May 4 at the Park Ridge Country Club, 636 N. Prospect Ave. WineStyles of Park Ridge will provide five stations of wine samples which can be paired with appetizers. There will also be a silent auction, a wine mystery bag purchase and more, with net proceeds benefitting the American Brain Tumor Association. Tickets are $50 per person and be ordered online at www.BigBuzzIdeaGroup.com/events or by calling (847) 677-8273. Corks for a Cure is held in memory of Chris Diez, choir director at St. Paul of the Cross Church, who died in January, 2009, after being diagnosed with Glioblastoma Multiforme, the most aggressive form of malignant primary brain tumor.

Like New Auto Spa, Inc.: The car wash, 1050 Busse Hwy., Park Ridge, has a special fundraising 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; a portion of the proceeds specifically benefits the Older Adult Services program of the hospital. Call AiMee Madden, (847) 723-8518; Steve Radakovic at Like New Auto Spa, (847) 823-9274; or visit www.likenewautospa.com.

Health

Advocate Lutheran General Hospital: LGH is hosting a weekly Community Healthbeat lecture series. This month’s topic is “Healthy Bones and Joints,” led by orthopedic surgeons. All lectures will be held at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital’s West End Conference Center, 1775 W. Dempster St., Park Ridge, at 7 p.m. Tuesdays. Free valet parking is available and refreshments will be served. Admission is free, however, registration is required. Call 800-323-8622 and mention Class Code 8G52 or visit www.advocateheatlh.com/luth, click on “I need a class or support group” and type in the class code — May 8: “Foot and Ankle Care: Orthotics,” presented by Dr. Alan League; May 15: “Low Back Pain and Spinal Stenosis,” presented by Dr. Fernando Techy; May 22: “Healthy Bones in Children and Kids’ Fractures,” presented by Dr. Aimee Brasher; May 29: “My Painful Shoulder,” presented by Dr. Marc Breslow.

Park Ridge Health Care Forum: Hosting monthly presentations and discussions on the first Thursday of each month at 11 a.m. at the Park Ridge Senior Center, 100 S. Western Ave. The Health Care Forum is a collaborative group of health and wellness professionals and community partners working to bring health education to the community. Topics will address a variety of health issues related to cardiology, prescription drugs, depression, Medicare scams, new Medicaid changes, health screenings, how to prepare for your next doctor’s appointment, brain health, and ideas on how to navigate through the health care process. Refreshments will be served. Attendance is free. Contact Susan Scatchell from A-Abiding Care at (847) 698-1400.

Senior Advocate: Advocate Lutheran General Hospital offers free blood-pressure screenings each month. Screenings will be from 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 is necessary. Call (847) 723-7277.

Loyola Center/Heart & Vascular Medicine: 1030 W. Higgins Road, offers a comprehensive set of vascular screening tests that could help prevent strokes and other serious cardiovascular conditions. The Loyola LiveSmart Vascular Screening includes a carotid artery disease screening, an abdominal aortic aneurysm screening, an ankle-brachial index screening for peripheral arterial disease and an EKG for atrial fibrillation (irregular heart beat). The cost is $130 and requires no referrals. To schedule a screening call (888) 584-7888.

Library

Park Ridge Public Library: 20 S. Prospect Ave., (847) 825-3123, www.parkridgelibrary.org. Registration is required for programs unless otherwise noted.

The feature film: “Anonymous,” (PG-13) will be screened at 2 and 7 p.m. May 8. This film advances the theory that it was really Edward DeVere, Earl of Oxford, who penned Shakespeare’s plays; starring Rhys Ifans and Vanessa Redgrave.

Alzheimer’s Association: “Know the 10 Warning Signs of Alzheimer’s” will be presented at 2 p.m. May 15.

Story of President Garfield’s Presidency: “Destiny of the Republic: A Tale of Madness, Medicine and the Murder of a President,” by Candice Millard will be discussed at 10 a.m. May 4.

Book Discussion: Ann Patchett’s “State of Wonder” will be discussed at 10 a.m. May 10 and 24. This book is about a doctor who tracks down her former mentor who has disappeared while working on a valuable new drug in the Amazon.

The Friends of the Library: The Friends’ Spring Book Sale will be held May 5 and 6 at the library. Special Preview Night for members is May 4. Memberships may be purchased at the door.

Karen Russell: “Swamplandia!” will be discussed at 7 p.m. May 16. This is the story of a 12-year-old who believes her only chance to save her fragmented family is to take a harrowing journey deep within the swamp.

Film historian: Matthew C. Hoffman will host the Screen Deco film series. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Come early to see short subjects and original videos on Art Deco in Hollywood cinema. May 10: “The Black Cat” (1934); May 17: “She” (1934); May 24: “Things to Come” (1936); May 31: “Swing Time” (1936).

Park Ridge Public Library: Sponsoring one-on-one sessions with professional recruiter Sherry Perry every Tuesday evening from 7-9 p.m. These free sessions are open to all Park Ridge residents and can run from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the feedback sought. Perry has more than 20 years of recruitment experience, including resume development and conducting behavior-based interviews. She specializes in knowing what hiring managers are looking for in resumes and offering individual guidance to job candidates. Attendees will need to bring a copy of their resume and any job postings or descriptions of positions they might be applying for. Reservations are required; call Reference Services at (847) 720-3230.

Young Adults: Invited to stop in the second Tuesday of each month at 5 p.m. for pizza and a chance to share current favorite books. Registration is required.

Park Ridge Public Library: Circulating five Nooks, Barnes and Noble’s popular eReader, to Park Ridge cardholders. The Nooks are preloaded with a selection of popular titles, and patrons will also be able to download additional eBooks from the library’s digital collection. The Nooks display in black and white and are wi-fi enabled. Nooks can be checked out for three weeks and are only available to Park Ridge cardholders age 16 and older. Holds may be placed for the Nook through the library’s online catalog. All checkouts and returns of the devices are handled through the second floor Reader Services Desk. Call (847) 720-3280.

Music Online Package: Listen to free streaming audio of nearly one-million complete music tracks from the world’s best classical, jazz, and folk/world music labels. Create playlists and listen on your computer, or download selections to a mobile device. Park Ridge Public Library card holders can access the collection from anywhere using their library card number. The site offers mobile access for all Android and iPhone devices, including the iPod Touch and iPad. Users can create and save playlists by creating a free account through the site, access playlists that other users have created, and save music for future listening. The site also offers video performances, scores, and other music-related materials. Visit www.parkridgelibrary.org and go to Music, Movies & More. Call the Reader Services Desk at (847) 720-3280.

Volunteers/Organizations: Organizations looking for volunteers can post on the Park Ridge Community Network, a website managed by the Park Ridge Public Library. Potential volunteers can follow links to the organizations’ websites for specific details on how to participate in the volunteer programs. The library wants to expand this service and encourages all local organizations to submit information regarding opportunities available to volunteers. Find the link at www.parkridgelibrary.org or through the city website. Contact the library’s Business Office at (847) 720-3207, or send an e-mail to Ed Tidd at etidd@prpl.org.

Residents: Check out passes to local museums by stopping by the Children’s Services Desk and showing their library cards. Only four passes are available each week and only one can be checked out per person. Passes are good for seven days from the date stamped on the front. They are for one-time use and are not transferable. Admission offers may vary by museum; some may allow two or more people per pass, while others may allow a carload. Patrons may see a list of participating museums and their guidelines by going to www.museumadventure.org. Please note that no Chicago museums are a part of this promotion. Call Children’s Services at (847) 825-4527.

Maine Township

Maine Township’s FISH: (Friends Indeed Serve and Help) is in need of volunteer drivers. Volunteer drivers can choose how much time they wish to devote. Requirements include a current driver’s license and proof of auto insurance. FISH carries supplemental liability insurance as an umbrella policy for its drivers. The program requires that 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 for FISH, 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.

Parenting

Professionals/Learning Disabilities & Special Ed: Holding its culminating dinner on May 8, starting at 6 p.m. at Gusto Ristorante Italiano, 1470 Waukegan Road, Glenview. Featured speakers will be the mentors of teen Michael McCarthy as they relay their part in successfully enabling and inspiring Michael in spite of overwhelming odds. Born without legs, raised in an orphanage in Russia, and adopted by Julie and David McCarthy, Michael has overcome multiple obstacles. Professionals and parents are invited. Fee is $35, members/students, $40, nonmembers. Contact Carrie Parks at (847) 831-4259 or Carriemaeparks@microref.com.

Parks

Park Ridge

Park Ridge Park District: (847) 692-5127, www.prparks.org:

Summer Classes: Registration begins May 14 at 7 a.m. online at www.prparks.org or 8:30 a.m. at Park District facilities.

Mother’s Day Wildflower Walk: Walk through the woodland at Wildwood, 529 Forestview Ave., and the forest preserve to view the spring flora and learn the folklore behind the names of the wildflowers from 1-3 p.m. May 13. The fee is $5 per person, but mothers are free.

Park Ridge Park District: Registration for Summer Camp programs is still being accepted. A wide array of day camps for children ages 2 to 14 is offered. There is a camp to meet every child’s needs. Register now at Maine Park Leisure Center, 2701 W. Sibley Ave. Camps begin the week of June 11.

Park Ridge Park District: Discounted Summer 2012 Pool Passes are now being sold to residents. Passes start at $77 for an individual. Nonresidents can also buy 2012 pool passes. Pool passes may be purchased at Maine Park Leisure Center, Oakton Ice Arena and the Community Center. Call (847) 692-5127 or visit www.prparks.org.

Golf Maine

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

Resident Advisory Committee: The Park 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 e-mail bret@gmpd.org.

Summer Camp: Registration is in progress for the eight-week summer camp program (four two-week sessions from June 11 to Aug. 3.) Camp is from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. with Before & After Child Care available for an additional cost. Field trips included in the fee.

Youth T-Ball League: League is designed to introduce baseball to children ages 7 to 9. Games are played on Saturdays, May 7 to June 25, at Dee Park.

Cricket Classes & Clinics: Cricket has begun at Dee Park. Learn the basic fundamentals of this very popular sport. Children ages 7-17.

The Painting Studio: Classes meet from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Mondays and Thursdays or 7-9:30 p.m. on Wednesdays at Feldman.

Over the Rainbow: Young children will have fun learning the colors of the rainbow through stories and songs at Dee Park on Fridays, for ages 3-5 years.

Before & After School Child Care: Care is available for children attending Apollo or Stevenson schools in District 63. Call for details.

Zumba: A Latin-inspired workout to get in shape has ongoing classes at 7:15 p.m. Mondays or Tuesdays at Feldman (nine weeks).

Ballet & Tap: Classes are offered for ages 3 years to adult. Ongoing classes year round. Dee and Feldman Parks.

Tiny Tots Open Gym: Parents may drop in and supervise their 1-5 year-old any Wednesday or Thursday from 9-11:30 a.m. for a variety of gym games at Dee Park.

Preschool: There are still spots available for second-semester preschool (for 4-year-olds). Offered are morning (5 days per week) and afternoon classes (Mondays through Thursdays). All classes are at Dee Park.

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

Various rooms/gyms: Rooms are available for rental for parties, meetings or ongoing activities. Call (847) 297-3059.

Golf Maine Park District: Offers 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, shredded paper (bagged); no cardboard or phone books. All money raised goes directly to fund scholarship program. Call (847) 297-3000 or visit www.paperretriever.com/.

Golf Maine Park District: Offers a selection of Energy Star qualified Compact Fluorescent Light bulbs for sale to the general public from a Lights for Learning kiosk. Proceeds from sale of bulbs goes directly to fund the scholarship program. The scholarship program allows children the opportunity to attend camp when they may not have the resources to do so on their own. Kiosk houses the Lights for Learning teacher tool kits, designed for educators and organization leaders. Energy Star Activity Books for children as well as Energy Star home energy conservation and electronics information available. A recycling bin for used CFLs available. CFLs purchased at Feldman Park, 8800 Kathy Lane, Niles 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Call (847) 297-3000.

M-NASR

Maine-Niles Association of Special Recreation: Offers people with physical and mental challenges, behavior and learning disorders, hearing and visual impairments and emotional disabilities the opportunity to enjoy recreation activities. To receive a seasonal brochure or offer support for people with special needs by volunteering, call (847) 966-5522.

Religion

Park Ridge Presbyterian: The Rev. Jim McCracken, Senior pastor, has announced that the Bible is the focus of the new church year beginning after Easter at Park Ridge Presbyterian Church, 1300 W. Crescent Ave. Assorted weekly resources, including a short essay introducing the week’s readings, some thought-provoking study questions and a reading guide will be given on Sundays in the worship bulletin and posted on the church website. The website also contains a list of the most popular modern Bible translations and key words to understanding any Bible passage. Study resources will continue to be posted on the website as the readings progress. With the readings, the congregation will be experiencing the Bible in different ways: Regular Sunday worship will reflect the readings for the week, and occasional gatherings and classes will enhance the study among participants. Pastor McCracken invites all who are interested to join at 10 a.m. each Sunday and at the church website, www.parkridgepresby.org/Bible. A commitment of merely 15 minutes per day may lead to transforming personal growth. Call the church office, (847) 823-4135.

St. Paul of the Cross Catechesis: CCD registration for fall 2012-13 classes is under way. Classes are for preschool through eighth grade. There are many class types, times and day options to choose from. Go to www.spc-catechesis.net and click on the Registration link for more information and forms. Call or email with any questions: (847) 692-2758 or spccatechesis@yahoo.com.

Park Ridge Presbyterian Church: Open Forum, a radical new kind of community learning, is ongoing. The Open Forum is place where anyone can come to have their questions answered about faith, religion, philosophy, theism, Christianity, or the Presbyterian tradition, and to discuss those answers in a safe, open-minded, and reasoned environment. The religious and non-religious, the scholarly and the lay, the Christian and non-Christian; anyone of any background and any religion can come to have their questions answered and discussed. As the forum progresses, questions are to be submitted before the meeting, either to a drop box in the front lounge of Park Ridge Presbyterian Church, or to the Director of Youth and Family Ministries’ email address, dyfmprpc@live.com. The anonymity of all questions is preserved. Meetings are held every other Wednesday night at 7 p.m. in the church basement, 1300 W. Crescent Ave. (May 9, May 23, etc.).Call (847) 823-4135 or visit www.parkridgepresby.org.

Women’s Spirituality: Meets from 7-8:30 p.m. on the first Monday of the month in the Grauer Lounge of St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, 306 S. Prospect Ave. Scheduled books include — May 7: “We Need to Talk About Kevin,” by Lionel Shriver; June 4: “Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone,” by J.K Rowling. These books are available at the Reader’s Desk on the second floor of the Park Ridge Library. All women are welcome whether they have read the book or not. Contact the Rev. Martha Durham at martha@stmaryspr.org.

Community Bible Study: An interdenominational, non-profit Bible Study for anyone interested in learning more about God’s Word. A CBS class is composed of several essential elements (individual study, small group discussion, weekly lecture/teaching, and fellowship. Offered are adult classes for women, men, couples and teens (boys and girls ages 13-18); as well as children from birth through age 12. The Park Ridge CBS class meets at South Park Church, 1330 S. Courtland Ave., Tuesday mornings from 9:15-11:15 a.m. (concluding May 15, 2012). This year’s 30-week study is on the Gospel of Luke. Registration is required; contact Cindy Engle, cindyluengle@sbcglobal.net or (847) 698-2229.

Messiah Lutheran Church: A Christian education hour will be held at 9 a.m. each Sunday, at Messiah, 1605 Vernon Ave., 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.

Reunions

Austin High School: The 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. 12-16 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. to 5 p.m. Eastern time; email Hope4391@frontier.com.

Roosevelt High School: Athletic Fund is holding an all-year reunion May 4 in the school cafeteria, 3436 W. Wilson Ave., Chicago. There will be a buffet dinner and musical entertainment. Cost is $60 per person. Call Arnie Kamem, class of 1950, at (847) 432-2773; visit www.roosevelthschicago.org.

Rummage Sale

Maine Township High School Dist. 207: The Transition Program will hold a Rummage Sale from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. May 19. It will be held in the ABCD gym at Maine East High School, 2601 W. Dempster St. in Park Ridge. Proceeds will benefit program activities.

Resurrection Retirement Community: The facility, 7262 W. Peterson Ave., Chicago, is holding a Rummage Sale from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. May 5. A large selection of housewares, china and glassware, small appliances, linens, and seasonal items will be offered at bargain prices. There is ample parking; no admission charge nor stairs to climb. Call (773) 792-7930.

Resurrection Retirement Community: Resurrection, 7262 W. Peterson Ave., Chicago, is holding a furniture sale (gently used) from 9 a.m.-noon May 19. Call (773) 792-7930.

Scouts

Boy Scouts Troop 1: Commemorating its 100th anniversary in July with a celebration dinner. Eagle scouts, current members, alumni and several dignitaries are expected to attend. In conjunction with the dinner, Troop 1 will be participating in several events throughout the community where they plan to display Troop 1 memorabilia through the ages. The troop is looking for pictures, patches, uniforms or other memorabilia from Troop 1 in years past. To have items included in the display, or for information, contact Art Steinke, Troop 1 Historian and Treasurer, at bsatroop1_100years@comcast.net. Today, Troop 1 consists of approximately 35 Boy Scouts who meet every Monday night in the basement scout room at United Methodist Church in Park Ridge where they continue the scout traditions.

Maine Seniors

Maine Township MaineStreamers: This program 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. Call (847) 297-2510, or visit www.Mainetownship.com.

Cell Phones: Maine Township, in cooperation with the Cook County Sheriff’s Office, is collecting used cell phones which will be converted for emergency 911 usage for seniors. Anyone who wishes to donate a phone, may drop them off at Maine Town Hall.

Park Ridge Senior Center

Park Ridge Senior Center: The center, 100 S. Western Ave., invites new members to join its program. Call (847) 692-3597. Seniors do not need to be a Park Ridge resident to join.

Annual Fashion Show: A fashion is scheduled for 11:30 a.m. May 16 at Café LaCave in Des Plaines. The latest fashions from Chico’s in Park Ridge will be modeled by center members. Guests are welcome. Seating requests can be made by filling out a form at the front desk. Cost for this special event is $40.

Driver Safety: Sponsored by AARP, driver’s safety is a course that upon completion may entitle participants to a discount on automobile liability insurance. Preregister by calling the center. The dates are May 29-31. The charge is $12 for AARP members or $14 for non-AARP members.

Park Ridge Health Care Forum: A monthly presentation of Stroke & Stroke Rehab will take place at 11 a.m. May 3. Topics will address a variety of health issues related to different diseases, prescription drugs, depression, Medicare scams, new Medicaid changes, health screenings, how to prepare for the next doctor’s appointment, brain health, and ideas on how to navigate through the health care process. Admission is free; refreshments will be served.

“Meditation Excursion”: This class will be presented from 7-10 p.m. Thursdays, May 10 to June 7, at a fee of $100. The class will strengthen focus, deepen connection to one’s core, and enhance creativity and intuition. This is a participatory workshop. Each exercise is followed by lively discussion and the practical applications to daily life.

May’s “Just Lunch”: Lunch features baked mostaccioli and fresh salad beginning at 12:30 p.m. May 7 for only $6. After lunch, stay to play cards or visit with friends.

Roberta Randall: Historic interpreter Roberta Randall will portray American operatic soprano Beverly Sills at 1:30 p.m. May 17. Doors open at 1 p.m. for snacks and sweet treats. Charge is $10.

May Monthly Lnncheon: Lunch begins at 12:30 p.m. May 21. Entertainment will be provided by the Center Chorus, the Choraliers, and the Uketones giving their annual spring concert for members and guests. Lunch menu includes Italian beef, mostaccioli with meat sauce, gourmet salad and chocolate cake. Cost is $14.

Park Ridge Senior Center: If you are looking for a place to have a meeting, party or other event, one room of the Center can be rented or the entire facility. Call the Center at (825) 692-3597.

Center Chorus: Rehearsals are at 1 p.m. every Friday. All Center members can join. There is no audition and there is a fee of only $5 for a four-week period. The Chorus can also be hired to perform at church groups, schools, business organizations, retirement homes, etc., during its season which runs from September to June.

“Friendship Square”: Main entrance of the center still has spaces available; anyone can buy a brick to honor someone or in memory of a family member or friend. Bricks are $50 for a 4- by 8-inch brick or $100 for the 8- by 8-inches. Businesses can also buy a brick.

Ceramics class: Ongoing program that meets at 9:30 a.m. to noon Mondays and Tuesdays. Students work on projects of their choice and level of experience. Class instructions is provided by Mickey Currie. There is a $7 fee per class.

Bowling: Continues at 1 p.m. Thursdays at River Rand Bowl in Des Plaines. Cost is $4.50 for two games or $6.25 for three games. This is not a league so anyone can attend anytime. New or experienced bowlers are welcome.

Exercise classes: 9 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at a cost of $2 a class which helps pay for the weights and stretch bands.

Wood-carving Group: Meets at 9 a.m. Thursdays; the Diet Club at 9:30 a.m. and Humanities at 10:15, also on Thursdays. The table tennis players play at 1 p.m. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. A large duplicate bridge group meets at 9 a.m. Fridays.

The Gamers: Gather at 1 p.m. every Friday. Most participants come to play dominos or hand and foot, but some play Rummikube or Scrabble.

Collections: The center continues to collect the box tops and labels for education. The list of products is on the table in the entry way of the center. Collecting pop tabs also continues; they are much appreciated by the Ronald McDonald House. They should be deposited in the can in the kitchen that is marked for “Pop Tabs.”

“Book Worms”: Book discussion group meets monthly to discuss a book that was distributed and read the month before. They meet at 1 p.m. on the first Thursday of the month in the center library. Free.

Lending Closet: Equipped with canes, walkers, shower benches, wheelchairs and more. These items are available on a short-term basis at no charge.

Current Events Group: Meets at 10 a.m. Wednesdays at the center library. The group shares their thoughts on what is going on locally, statewide, nationally and internationally. Rita Johnson is the group moderator.

Table Tennis: Very active group plays on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays beginning at 1 p.m.

Services: Following services are available to any area senior, members and nonmembers: From 9:30 a.m. to noon Wednesday mornings, Social Worker Cynthia Phon is at the center to answer questions, provide resource information or just listen. No appointments are necessary and this service is free of charge.

Pinochle Players: Meet every Saturday afternoon of the month, the second Monday and fourth Thursday at 1 p.m. All are welcome. No partners needed.

Seniors

Timely Talk: “Cubs Vs. Sox: A Real Rivalry” will be addressed at 2 p.m. May 16, at Norwood Crossing, 6016-20 N. Nina Ave. in Chicago. George Castle, local author, baseball authority and radio talk show host, will discuss how the classic has become the closest event to a playoff atmosphere, why the classic has led to argument resolution based on on-field performance rather than fantasy and projection, and will give insight into the various players who have played in the event over the past 15 years. Refreshments and a raffle will follow the talk. To attend, call (773) 577-5323.

Norwood Crossing: The public is invited to view the creative artwork of Norwood Crossing residents during the annual Spring Art Show opening in conjunction with two special performances of a “Broadway Revue,” also featuring residents. The dual events will take place May 19, with performances of the “Broadway Revue” at 3 and 6 p.m. in Norwood Crossing’s Norwegian Heritage Room, 6016-20 N. Nina Ave.,The artwork will be displayed in the hallways and lobbies of Norwood Crossing through June 30. Refreshments will be available. Call (773) 577-5323.

Clark Weber: Icon of Chicago radio in the ‘50s, ‘60s and ‘70s, will take visitors back to a time when rock and roll was clean and the Chicago River was dirty at 1:30 p.m. May 18 at the Summit of Uptown, 10 N. Summit Ave. (at Touhy). There is no charge for the program. Reservations are required by May 14; call (847) 825-1161, Ext. 129. Light refreshments will be served. Parking is available in the city’s central parking lot and the Uptown lot across the street. Visit www.summitofuptown.com.

Elizabeth Brackett: The correspondent and substitute host for WTTW 11’s nightly affairs program “Chicago Tonight,” will speak at a fundraising luncheon hosted by The Summit of Uptown, 10 N. Summit Ave., at noon May 10. The award-winning journalist will share stories from her distinguished reporting career and also talk about the challenges she has overcome to become a three-time world champion triathlete. Tickets are $20. Reservations, which are required by May 7, may be made by calling (847) 825-1161, ext. 129. Proceeds of the luncheon will benefit WTTW Channel 11 Public Television. Parking is available in the city garage across the street. See www.summitofuptown.com.

Park Ridge Police Dept: The Police Department continues to host a monthly Senior Breakfast at 9 a.m. on the third Tuesday of each month at the Park Ridge Senior Center, 100 S. Western Ave., in an effort to provide valuable information and offer an opportunity to interact with the seniors. Officers will be on hand each meeting to provide current and relevant information about issues such as home repair scams, changes and updates to laws, crime prevention information, personal security and more. In addition, some meetings will include guest speakers from outside agencies such as the Illinois Attorney General’s Office. Refreshments will be served and there is no cost to attend. Contact the department’s Community Strategies Officer at (847) 318-5233.

Golf Mill Shopping Center: Hosting “Feats of Fitness,” a mall walking program Mondays through Saturdays, to enable seniors to walk within an enclosed environment. The program is sponsored by Bethany Terrace, Golf Mill Shopping Center, Maine Township MaineStreamers and Partners in Healthcare (North Shore Physicians Group). Health seminars and blood pressure screenings will be offered throughout the year every month on the second Wednesday. Call the Golf Mill management office, (847) 699-1070.

Cynthia Phon: A social worker is at the Park Ridge Senior Center, 100 S. Western Ave., from 9:30 a.m.-noon on Wednesdays to help with issues of a personal nature or for resource information or referrals. Appointments not necessary; no charge. Free notary service available weekdays. Call (847) 692-3597 for appointment. These services are available at Park Ridge Senior Center for everyone, member or nonmember, Park Ridge resident or nonresident.

Park Ridge Businesses: Businesses are partnering with T-Mobile and the Cook County Sheriff’s Office to provide cell phones to senior citizens across Cook County. The Sheriff’s Department’s “Cell Phones for Seniors Program” provides senior citizens with refurbished cell phones they can use to dial 911 in case of an emergency. Ace Hardware Park Ridge, Le Peep Restaurant and the Brickton Art Center are joining T-Mobile in their mission to provide a lifeline for senior citizens in emergency situations. These companies have each placed drop boxes in their businesses to collect used cell phones from their customers and Park Ridge residents. Community residents can stop by any of these convenient locations to drop off their used cell phones to help the environment and help community seniors. For information on how to receive an emergency 911 phone, contact Cook County Sheriff’’s Office (773) 869-7878.

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 that combines 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. The classes move incrementally through different intensity levels, so anyone is welcome to join. Classes are held at 11 a.m. Wednesdays, $5.35. Line Dancing is offered at 11:15 a.m. on the first and third Tuesdays of each month. Each class costs $3.25. A variety of exercise classes fit for every level is available. Try the gentle-moderate exercise class, 11:15 Mondays and 10 a.m. Tuesdays that features a combination of seated and standing exercises for a complete cardiovascular workout. The moderate-high energy class is at 11 a.m. Thursdays and Fridays, giving more of a challenge with cardio, strengthening, stretching, and toning routines. Each class costs $3.25. 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 are offered every month. Joan Forsberg, maritime historian, will present tales from some of the 345 passengers who were headed for the Great Lakes region on the maiden voyage of the Titanic and other fascinating stories connecting the Titanic with the Great Lakes at 1 p.m. May 3. Suggested donation is $8. Michael St. Angel will present “Viva Elvis: A Tribute to the King” on May 5; “Southern Spectacular” lunch is at 2 p.m., show at 3. Meal cost is $10; entertainment, $10. Learn how to make decorative, lush floral centerpieces from Robert Neri at 2 p.m. May 9. Donation is $15 and includes all supplies; payment in advance required. Benita Lackajs of Metropolitan Family Services will discuss how humor can help and heal in the aging process at 1 p.m. May 10. Barbara Silverman and Steve Rosen of the Old Town School of Music will give a program of classic American music including folk songs, country classics and tunes from the swing era at 5:30 p.m. May 11. Dinner is at 4:30 p.m. Meal cost is $10; entertainment fee is $8.

Ill. Secretary of State: Jesse White’s office offers a free Rules of the Road Review course. The class is designed to give drivers, especially seniors and persons with disabilities, the knowledge and confidence needed to renew or obtain a driver’s license. Participants get an explanation of the driving exam and have the opportunity to take a practice written exam. Also, for those who qualify, the course offers information on disability parking placards as well as disability license plates. The Rules of the Road Review courses are offered throughout the state. Visit www.cyberdriveillinois.com or call 1-217-782-8893 or 1-888-261-5238 (TTY, NexTalk).

Support

Mass: A mass will be celebrated in honor of St. Dymphna, the patron saint of persons with mental illnesses, at 8:45 a.m. May 15 at Queen of All Saints Basilica, 6280 N. Sauganash Ave., Chicago. A relic of St. Dymphna will be displayed for veneration following Mass. The St. Dymphna Society and Chicago Archdiocesan Commission on Mental Illness invite all mentally ill persons and their families and friends to take part in this liturgy. Call Jim and Shirley Weber at (773) 777-6022.

Support Lecture: “Education and Support for You, Your Family, and Your Child with Mental Health Issues,” sponsored by the National Alliance on Mental Illness, Cook County North Suburban, takes place from 6:30-9 p.m. Wednesdays, up to May 30, at the Maryville Scott Nolan Center, 555 Wilson Lane, Des Plaines. This is a free, six-week course for parents of children and adolescents dealing with mental health issues. Trained family members discuss getting an accurate diagnosis, latest research, therapies, problem-solving, crisis preparation, dealing with the school and juvenile justice systems, and transitioning from adolescence to adulthood. Diagnoses discussed include childhood bipolar disorder, depression, ADD/ADHD, anxiety disorders, OCD, ODD, and others. To register, call (847) 716-2252.

La Leche League: The breastfeeding support group, will meet at 10 a.m. at Healthy Babies, Happy Families, 8267 W. Golf Road in Niles (Four Flaggs Shopping Center). Expecting and nursing mothers are invited to attend this series of meetings, continuing May 18, June 15. No registration is necessary. Babies are always welcome. Visit llli.org.

Weight Watchers at Work: The group meets at the American Association of Nurse Anesthetists, 222 S. Prospect Ave. Weigh-in is at 11:15 a.m. followed by a meeting from 11:45 a.m.-12:15 p.m. This program will meet every Thursday at a cost of $39.95 per month. Contact Jeanne Robert at (847) 341-1028 or e-mail wwjro@comcast.net.

Midwest Palliative & Hospice CareCenter: Grief support groups meet at 2050 Claire Court, Glenview, for eight weeks and are offered at no charge to the general public. The schedule for winter includes: Drop-in Group, first and third Fridays of each month, 10:30 a.m.-noon. Call (847) 556-1777 to register. Registration deadline is four business days before the start date of each group. Visit www.carecenter.org/groupsupport.

Polish Grief Support: An ongoing support group for Polish-speaking bereaved who have lost a loved one any time during the past two years meets from 1-2:30 p.m. on the second Saturday of each month at Rainbow Hospice and Palliative Care, 1550 Bishop Court, Mount Prospect. Fee is $5 per session; To register call (847) 292-2342.

Stroke Club: Lutheran General Hospital’s 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 Parlor Room, south portion of main level; use entrance at rear (Grant Place), across from 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.

MOMS Club: Northern Chicagoland MOMS Club holds weekly activities (such as playgroups, 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 e-mail 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 are 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. There are 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. For additional information, call (773) 205-3600.

National Alliance for 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 and meets 7-8:30 p.m. on 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.

Alzheimer’s: A caregivers 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. Meetings are 1:30-3 p.m. the third Thursday of each month in the lower-level conference room of Nesset Pavilion, 1775 Ballard Road, Park Ridge. Meetings are free and no registration is required. Contact Sandy Guarise, (847) 318-2501.

Neptune Society: The largest independent cremation company in the nation based in Des Plaines 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.

Stroke Club: Advocate Lutheran General Hospital’s Stroke Club 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: Rainbow Hospice’s 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 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). Contact Carol Flanagan, (773) 792-5116:

Cancer Support Group: Cancer patients, families and friends meet 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.

The 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 are required.

The Us Too!: A prostate cancer support group meets every second Wednesday of the month.

Teen Cancer: A support Group 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 are 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: The hospital is forming a support network for women living with breast cancer. The Breast Cancer Networking Group will meet 2-3 p.m. the third Tuesday of each month. The support group provides breast-cancer survivors the opportunity to share information and experiences with other women. The group will be 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 at 7 p.m. the second Wednesday of each month in Advocate Lutheran General Hospital, 1775 Dempster St., Park Ridge, Conference Room 1064. E-mail bzarnikow@aol.com to be added to the e-mail list for meeting announcements.

Queen of All Saints: A weekly meeting for female survivors of sexual abuse takes place 7-8:30 p.m. on 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.

Volunteers

Norwood Seniors Network: 6009 N. Nina Ave., Chicago, is seeking more volunteers to deliver freshly prepared low-cost meals each weekday to homes 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. to 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. Hours are flexible. 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.

Call for Help: Individuals who have a few hours to spare are urged to join the Avenues to Independence Thrift Shoppe Team of Volunteers. Avenues is looking for friendly, hard-working men and women to help staff at the Thrift Shoppe, 7710 W. Touhy Ave. in Chicago, 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 is needed. All proceeds from the Thrift Shoppe help Avenues continue valuable programs for adults with developmental disabilities. Contact the store manager, 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.

American Cancer Society: Looking for people who wish to serve as a volunteer in the fight against cancer. Volunteers are needed to help provide services to cancer patients, including driving patients who have no transportation to their lifesaving treatment appointments. Volunteers are also needed to help plan fund-raising events such as Relay for Life and educate the public on cancer prevention and early detection. Schedules are flexible and training is provided. To learn more about these and other volunteer opportunities call the American Cancer Society, (708) 484-8541, or email raeann.spencer@cancer.org.

Advocate Lutheran General Hospital: Looking for people to join their volunteer staff. Volunteers are needed to provide service in many areas throughout the hospital. These include: delivering flowers to patient rooms, directing patients and visitors around the hospital, providing wheelchair assistance, assisting customers in the gift and flower shops, delivering newspapers and magazines to patients and giving comfort to families in waiting areas. Call (847) 723-6105, or visit www.advocatehealth.com/luth/about/community/volunteer.

---