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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 e-mailed to mbottari@pioneerlocal.com.

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

Tuesdays, Wednesdays (every week) – Employment counseling, by appointment.

Saturday, Nov. 21 — Blood pressure and blood sugar testing, 10 a.m.-noon (no appointment needed)

Nov. 21 and 22 — Annual Holiday Boutique, St. Andrews Lutheran Church, 260 N. Northwest Highway, Park Ridge; 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. Saturday; noon-5 p.m. Sunday.

Note: The Center will be closed Nov. 26 and 27 for Thanksgiving.

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 longtime-occupant-homeowner property-tax exemption.

Support groups for Alzheimer’s caregivers, those suffering from grief and loss, and seniors seeking to improve their nutrition are available at the Center of Concern in Park Ridge. the center also offers affordable personal counseling to adults of all ages. call center social worker Myrna Fogarty, (847) 823-0453. the center is at 1580 N. Northwest Highway, Suite 310, Park Ridge. the center also offers housing counseling for seniors and others seeking affordable housing, programs designed to prevent homelessness, in-home health care referrals, friendly visitors for the homebound and volunteer opportunities in the office and in the field.

Center tax counselors 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 deferral, and the senior citizen tax assessment freeze.

Employment counseling and preparation of simple wills and durable powers of attorney for health care and property also are available by appointment. 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 weekdays, 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

The Maine Township Food Pantry is in desperate need of nonperishable items, including: canned vegetables, canned fruit, jelly, peanut butter, hamburger/chicken helper, cookies, crackers, spaghetti, rice and snack bars. Items may be dropped off between 9 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. at the Niles Chamber of Commerce office, 8060 W. Oakton St., inside the NorthSide Community Bank building.

The Niles Chamber of Commerce, 8060 W. Oakton St., (847) 268-8180.

Des Plaines Camera Club will meet at 7 p.m. Nov. 23 at Prairie Lakes Community Center, 515 Thacker St., Des Plaines. the meeting will feature a photo club competition: color and black and white, large and small prints and DPI images. November photo of the month is “Rose” by Gerald Ritchie. call Cindy Uhlig, (847) 682-4859.

Ketura Hadassah will meet at 12:30 p.m. Nov. 24 at 6666 Lincoln Ave., Lincolnwood. Ron Miller will speak on Dialogue in Troubled Times. Cost is $3, non members. call (847) 945-1918.

The Niles Historical Society will present Karl Gates who will appraise the “wonders of your home” at 2 p.m. Nov. 22. There is a small fee ($3) for each article to be appraised; guns, stamps and coins cannot be accepted. Since the Niles Historical Museum is still under renovation, the meeting takes place at the Niles Park District Oasis Fun Center, 7877 Milwaukee Ave. Admission is free but donations are gladly accepted; plenty of free parking, and following a brief business meeting and the program, there will be refreshments. Space must be reserved in advance by calling (847) 390-0160.

The Henrietta Szold Group of Hadassah North Shore Chapter will celebrate Chanukah Dec. 8 at a member’s home in Long Grove at 7:30 p.m. a fun evening is planned with traditional treats and a $10 grab bag game. Mitzvah donations of toiletries for a Women’s Shelter will be collected. call (847) 205-1900 or e-mail: northshore@hadassah.org.

The Henrietta Szold Group of Hadassah North Shore Chapter will celebrate Chanukah Dec. 8 at a member’s home in Long Grove at 7:30 p.m. a fun evening is planned with traditional treats and a $10 grab bag game. Mitzvah donations of toiletries for a Women’s Shelter will be collected. call (847) 205-1900 or e-mail: northshore@hadassah.org.

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 also on Fridays from 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, e-mail jamesbond54762@yahoo.com or call (847) 470-9890.

The Korean War Veterans Association, Greater Chicago Chapter No. 25, meets at 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.

I Chiacchieroni Italian-language dinner group meets at 6:30 p.m. on the second Thursday of each month at Salerno’s, 1716 E. Kensington Road, Mount Prospect. this is a casual evening of conversation in Italian. the next meeting will be Dec. 10. call Gabriella, (847) 541-8524, or e-mail: ichiacchieroni@yahoo.com.

LeTip International, a business networking organization, recently opened a new local chapter. Area professionals seeking new leads, networking opportunities and valuable business tips are invited to join the group, which meets every Thursday at 7:01 a.m. at Omega, 9100 W. Golf Road in Niles. at each meeting, members exchange qualified business referrals, build professional relationships, create alliances, develop public speaking skills and take turns promoting their products and services. also, in every LeTip chapter, each business category is represented by one member to prevent conflicts of interest (once you join, your competition cannot). To learn more, contact Janet Hansen, (815) 728-1483, or jvhansen@letip.com. for details on LeTip, visit LeTip.com.

Join the Catholic Women’s Bowling League for Ladies Night Out at Classic Bowl, 8530 Waukegan Road, Morton Grove. Fee is $15 per week. all skill levels welcome. call Deanne Drozdz at (224) 628-4009 or d.drozdz@comcast.net.

The Knights of Columbus (North American Martyrs Council, 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.

The American Jewish Artists Club is accepting new members. the group, founded in the early 1920s, focuses on the broad aspects of artistic performance and serves to enrich the cultural fiber of the Jewish community. call Lorre Slaw, (847) 272-0744, or e-mail lslaw@oakton.edu.

Audubon Society of Park Ridge meets at 7:30 p.m. the fourth Thursday of the month in the Maine Park Leisure Center, Forestview and Sylviawood. Guests of all ages are welcome. call Roger Ginger, (847) 825-2982.

Niles Chapter Toastmasters meets at 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.

Shoestring Productions presents a holiday musical review, “Celebrate the Season,” in an intimate cabaret-style setting at Stage One, 620 Lee St., Des Plaines. Performances are at 7 p.m. Sundays and 7:30 p.m. Mondays from Nov. 29 through Dec. 28 (no performance Dec. 13). Tickets: $10 which includes admission, dessert and beverage. Free parking. call (847) 657-7688.

The Chapel at St. Matthew Center for Health, 1601 N. Western Ave., Park Ridge, will feature an exhibit of more than 325 nativity scenes from around the world, “Room at the Inn,” from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Dec. 5 and 6. the scenes are from the private collection of Oak Park resident Susan Greeley. Children will especially enjoy the “please touch” table and a chance to win a nativity set of their own. Free. call (847) 825-5531 or visit St.MatthewCenter.org.

The Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center, 9603 Woods Drive, Skokie, will welcome its second traveling exhibition, “Anne Frank: a History for Today” runs from Dec. 3-Feb. 28. Hours are: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday; 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. Thursday; and 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. the story of Anne Frank and her family is juxtaposed against world events before, during and after Adolf Hitler and the Nazi party’s rise to power. Included are dozens of photographs of the Frank family and other occupants of the Secret Annex. the exhibition depicts those who chose to join the Nazi party, those who were bystanders and those who were willing to resist Nazi tyranny. it explores how racism, persecution and genocide were facilitated by political decisions as well as the actions of individuals. call (847) 967-4800.

Lincolnwood Ballroom and Latin Social Dance will take place Nov. 20 at the Lincolnwood Community Center, 6900 N Lincoln Ave. Newly renovated, large dance floor, free parking lot. Comfortable atmosphere for singles, couples Ballroom, Swing, and a healthy mix of Salsa/Latin. Doors open 7 p.m. Free lesson at 7:15 p.m.; dancing: 7:45-9:45 p.m. Cost is $10. Co-hosted by Lincolnwood Parks/Recreation and Tina Mangos Dance, (773) 282- 5108, tinamangosdance.com or lincolnwoodil.org.

Saint Andrew Life Center, 7000 N. Newark Ave., will host Breakfast with Santa for children of all ages from 9-11 a.m. Nov. 21. Personal tours will also be given. Registration is required; call (847) 647-8332.

Spend $75 at specialty retailers at Golf Mill Shopping Center now through Nov. 21 and receive one free admission to Kohl Children’s Museum in Glenview. Purchases must be on same-day receipts and excludes department stores: JCPenney, Sears, Kohl’s, Value City Furniture, Target and Shop-N-Save. Enter for a chance to win a four-pack of Mitchel Musso meet-and-greet passes at the Magnificent Mile Lights Festival presented by Harris on Nov. 21, a one-night stay at the Best Western River North Hotel, and a $100 Golf Mill gift card. Entry forms are available at Customer Service; no purchase necessary to win; must be 16 or under to be eligible. all entries must be submitted by Nov. 15. Radio Disney will be at Golf Mill from 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Nov. 14 in Center Court to host a prize-filled show. Visit golfmill.com or contact Golf Mill Shopping Center, (847) 699-1070.

The Chai Group of Hadassah North Shore Chapter invites you and your friends to join them in a fun day of Zumba and Lunch at 11:30 a.m. Dec. 8 at the Northbrook YMCA Gym, 2705 Techny Road. a light lunch and conversation will follow. the cost is $20. Contact the North Shore office, (847) 205-1900, or e-mail northshore@Hadassah.org.

Shoestring Productions presents “Listen to my Heart,” the songs of David Friedman, a cabaret-style presentation with complimentary dessert and beverage, at 7 p.m. Mondays through Nov. 22 at 620 Lee St., Des Plaines. the cost is $10. for tickets call (847) 657-7688 or e-mail shoestring-prod@sbcglobal.net.

The Ladies Philoptochos Society of the St. Haralambos Greek Orthodox Church, 7373 N. Caldwell Ave. in Niles, presents “The Symbols of Christmas” Bazaar and Holiday Bake Sale from 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Nov. 20 and 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Nov. 21. Featured will be Christmas treasures, crafts, gifts, floral arrangements, CD’s, jewelry, raffle, a Coffee Shop, and homemade Greek pastries. a special visitor from the North Pole shows up on Saturday (10 a.m.-4 p.m.), so bring cameras. the Bake Shop will feature the church’s famous homemade pastries, such as Baklava, Diples, Kataifi, Galaktoboureko, Kourambiethes and Melomakarouna for holiday entertaining. Lunch will be served on both days from 11:30 a.m.- 2:30 p.m. and dinner will be served on Friday only from 5:30-9 p.m. No admission and plenty of free parking. call ahead to place a pastry order and it will be ready for to pick up: (847) 647-8880.

Get into the holiday spirit with the Christmas Bazaar and Bake Sale at the Irish American Heritage Center, 4626 N. Knox Ave., Chicago, from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Dec. 6. Mass will be celebrated in the auditorium at 10:30 a.m., with music provided by the Irish Heritage Singers; a traditional Irish breakfast follows. Cost for the breakfast is $8 for adults and $4 for children. Reservations are required.; call (773) 282-7035, Ext. 10. Holiday shoppers can browse the bazaar, where there will be a craft sale from Chicago artisans and an Irish-American quilt will be raffled off. There will be raffles and local Irish import stores. the Jolly Holly Bake Shop will sell homemade pies, bread, scones, cakes and cookies. Santa Claus will visit from 1-3 p.m., and children can have their photos taken with him for free. as a special treat, Dragoncello Theater Company and Shapeshifters Theatre will present an original, one-hour performance featuring the myths of ancient Ireland with live traditional Irish music, puppets, and eye-popping costumes. the performance is at 2 p.m. and tickets are $5 for children and adults. Visit irish-american.org.

The Norwood Park Historical Society will hold its annual Victoria’s Craft Boutique on Dec. 3, 4, 5 and 6 at Noble-Seymour-Crippen House, 5624 N. Newark Ave., Chicago. Admission is $1. Boutique hours are: 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Dec. 3 and Dec. 4; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Dec. 5; and 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Dec. 6. the Norwood Park Historical Society runs this handmade-items-only sale as a way to celebrate the holidays and to raise funds to support Noble-Seymour-Crippen House. this year crafts include music boxes, soaps and lotions, stained glass, American Girl doll clothes, wreaths, quilts, ornaments, ceramics, and a variety of bakery items and foods. New this year is the nursery, where visitors can buy handmade infant toys, clothes and accessories for their young children. Visitors may also enjoy Holly Daze Cafe, which serves homemade soups, sandwiches, desserts and other light fare. Boutique attendees may also purchase holiday cookies. Tickets are available at norwoodparkhistoricalsociety.org.

A Holiday Craft Fair will be held from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Nov. 21 and noon-5 p.m. Nov. 22 at St. Andrews Lutheran Church, 260 N. Northwest Highway in Park Ridge. Items include hand-crafted jewelry, doll clothes, sweaters, candles, chocolates, gift baskets, etc. In addition Pampered Chef, Avon and Simply Delicious representatives will also be featured. a portion of the proceeds will benefit the Center of Concern, a nonprofit social service agency providing housing solutions, counseling and support services for seniors, disabled, and others in need. Contact Christine Perille, (847) 823-8755.

Niles Family Fitness Center, 987 Civic Center Dr. Niles, (847) 588-8400 or nilesfitness.com.

Through Dec. 15 a savings of $10 is available upon the purchase of three or more private or semi-private swim lessons. Private lessons are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Lessons are 30 minutes, with a three-lesson minimum. Fees are, for private lessons: $20, members; $25, nonmembers. Semi-private lessons are $13, members; $16, nonmembers.

Pilates is a series of controlled exercises that engage the mind and body in developing strong flexible muscles without building bulk. each movement begins with the abdomen, focusing on controlling core muscles. Routines alternate stretching with strengthening.

Classes run 9:10-10 a.m. Mondays; 6:10-7 p.m. and 7-7:50 p.m. Wednesdays; 8:05-8:55 p.m. Thursdays; and 8-8:50 a.m. Saturdays. Classes run to Dec. 18. Drop-in fees: member $9; nonmember $12. Mat training, Reformer training and semi-private classes are available; call Danielle Desherow, (847) 588-8410.

Aqua Antics, 1-5 years: Play group in the pool. this non-instructional swim class is designed to help your child become comfortable in the water. Water toys will be available. Parent/child class.

Mini Picasso’s, 18 months-3 years: a great place for your toddler to explore their creative side. they will enjoy painting, play dough, bubbles, and more. Class may be messy so please dress accordingly. Parent/child class.

Romp, Stomp & Roll, 10-20 months: this class is a social experience for both you and your child. Mats, balls, tunnels and age appropriate toys will be offered in this active free play class. Parent/child class.

Me two, 2 years: this class is offered to ease fears and encourage independence. Semi-structured environment. Stories, music and art are included in each class. Child only class.

Mini Sportsters, 2-4 years: an introductory sports class for your active 2, 3- and 4-year-old. Try out a different sport each week. Parent/child class.

Tumble Bees, 2-4 years: Children will be introduced to basic tumbling skills by participating in activities that teach gross motor skills and organized movement. Class includes basic introduction to the balance beam, floor and horizontal bar. Parent/child class.

Just for me, 3-4 years: this class is designed for those children who are ready to be on their own in a social preschool environment. Letters, numbers and colors will be taught through active play. Daily gym time and snacks are provided. Class will be offered with a continuing curriculum through spring 2009.

Breakfast Buddies, 3-6 years: In this pint-sized morning cooking class, kids will make and eat some of their favorite breakfast recipes, like pancakes and French toast. Class is offered one or two days a week.

Body Flex Kids, 3-6 years: Scheduled during adult Body Flex, this high energy exercise class will get your child moving and grooving. To cool down we will end class with kid’s yoga. Our instructor will escort your child to and from the Clubhouse.

Funtastic Friday’s, 3-6 years: Children will play games, make crafts, go swimming and make new friends. Run errands with out your “little helper.” Kids must be toilet trained.

Playtime Picasso’s, 3-6 years: Designed to explore your child’s creative side. Arts and crafts, painting, playdough along with age appropriate play will highlight this class. Class will be messy.

Recipe for Fun, 3-6 years: Learn to make simple recipes in this pint-sized cooking class. Measuring, mixing, pouring, and stirring are sure to keep our little chefs busy. each chef will get to eat or take home their own creations.

Silly Science, 3-6 years: this hand’s on science class is designed to combine learning and fun. with the use of everyday household items, become a silly scientist and create simple experiments.

Group EX Express Card — 10 Class card: $71, residents, $81 nonresidents; 20 Class Card: $124 residents, $144 nonresidents; 30 Class Card: $149 residents, $179 nonresidents. Classes include:

A.I.S. Stretch: Isolated stretching to increase flexibility.

Body Flex: Increase lean muscle mass and boost resting metabolic rate with this strength training class. use hand weights, body bars, exercise balls, and floor exercises to develop a toned, strong body.

BOSU, Cardio & Core: Challenges balance while taking cardiovascular drills that target glutes and thighs, and core strengthening exercises which challenge abs, back and waist. Intermediate to Advanced.

Butts, Guts and Step: a 30-minute lower body strengthening workout, including squats, lunges, and core strengthening, followed by 45 minute step workout, which includes high intensity step aerobics and a cool down stretch. Intermediate to Advanced.

Cardio Dance: High energy class with music. this 45-minute calorie burner followed by some work at the bar to stretch and work balance. Beginner to Intermediate.

Cardio Fusion: Cardiovascular workout with muscle shaping with interval Step, plyometrics, Kickboxing or BOSU combinations with strength training. finish with core work and stretch. Intermediate to Advanced.

Dance Aerobics: Includes a mix of dance, and aerobics, followed by an abdominal workout. Intermediate to Advanced.

Fantasy Fight: 60 minutes of choreographed low-impact simulated fight sequences derived from the martial arts, boxing and basic self-defense, designed to condition the heart, burn calories and improve self-confidence; handwraps required, available at the Membership Service Desk for $5.

Heart Rate Up & Pump: Get heart rate up with this variety of high-intensity, low-impact cardiovascular routines with some muscle conditioning. Beginner to Intermediate.

Lite & Fit: Perfect for the mature adult. Work at your own pace — a combination of low-impact (with some high intensity) aerobics. May include basic step, stability ball work, body toning with ab and back strengthening. Beginner to Intermediate.

Step & Stretch: this 60 minute step class includes a warm-up, high intensity step aerobics, and a Yoga inspired stretch.

Yoga: Work the mind and body.

Village of Niles employees, Citibank and PNA Bank are partnering together for a food drive to ensure no person in Niles goes hungry this Thanksgiving and holiday season. Demand for assistance is rising due to unemployment, high food prices and utilities and a troubled economy. this community effort will be held through Dec. 10. Donations by the public are deeply appreciated. Donations of nonperishable food items may be dropped off at any of the following locations: Village Hall, 1000 Civic Center Drive; Family Services and Senior Center, 999 Civic Center Drive; Niles Fitness Center, 987 Civic Center Drive; Niles fire Department, 8360 W. Dempster St.; Niles Police Department, 7000 W. Touhy Ave.; Niles Public Works, 6849 Touhy Ave.; Citibank, 8400 W. Dempster St.; PNA Bank, 7840 N. Milwaukee Ave.

It is not too late to donate money to the annual Knights of Columbus Candy Drive to help mentally handicapped children. To donate, send tax-free donations to: KC Council 4338, c/o Ken Lee, 8307 N. Harlem Ave. Niles IL 60714.

Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois present the annual Holiday Harvest dinner auction Nov. 21 beginning at 6 p.m. at the Plumbers and Pipefitters Union Hall in Aurora. Proceeds from this event benefit the outstanding programs for Girl Scouts in Northern Illinois. the theme for this year’s Holiday Harvest is Hollywood Harvest. Highlights of the evening include a live and silent auction, cash bar, and sit- down dinner. Tickets are $75 per person with $40 of each ticket tax-deductible. call the Sugar Grove Service Center, (630) 897-1565 or visit girlscoutsni.org.

The Morton Grove Group of Hadassah North Shore Chapter invites Hadassah members, associates and the public to a special luncheon at 1 p.m. Nov. 22 at the Golden Chef, 600 S. Milwaukee, in Wheeling. Guest speaker will be Ray Hanania, comedian, journalist, radio personality, and Pulitzer Prize nominee. Hanania, who has toured Israel, will present an unusual wit-filled and knowledgeable program about Israel-Palestinian relations. Admission is $18 to benefit Youth Aliyah/Children at Risk. for information contact the North Shore office at (847) 205-1900 or e-mail: northshore@hadassah.org.

The Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center, 9603 Woods Drive, Skokie, is offering a distinctive shopping experience this holiday season. for two days, the Legacy Shop International Holiday Boutique will offer shoppers one-of-a-kind gifts including books for adults and children, unique Judaica from around the world, handmade jewelry, stationery and museum merchandise. many of the items in the Legacy Shop are not sold anywhere else in Chicago. the Legacy Shop also has an extensive collection of fair trade merchandise. for each fair trade item sold, a percentage is donated back to artisans in developing countries. the event which benefits the museum will run from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 22 and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nov. 23. call (847) 967-4806 or visit ilholocaustmuseum.org.

The Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center, 9603 Woods Drive, Skokie, is offering a distinctive shopping experience this holiday season. for two days, the Legacy Shop International Holiday Boutique will offer shoppers one-of-a-kind gifts including books for adults and children, unique Judaica from around the world, handmade jewelry, stationery and museum merchandise. many of the items in the Legacy Shop are not sold anywhere else in Chicago. the Legacy Shop also has an extensive collection of fair trade merchandise. for each fair trade item sold, a percentage is donated back to artisans in developing countries. the event which benefits the museum will run from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Nov. 22 and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Nov. 23. call (847) 967-4806 or visit ilholocaustmuseum.org.

The Knights of Columbus Council 4338 is conducting a Wheelchairs for the Needy campaign. the public is invited to help others by providing donations for a wheelchair. for as little as $75, the needy can gain their mobility with a new wheelchair. Donations may be send to: Wheelchairs for Needy, c/o KC Council 4338, 8307 N. Harlem Ave., Niles IL 60714.

The Knights of Columbus are still distributing Tootsie Roll candy and banks with all profits given to mentally handicapped children. Tootsie Roll bars are available at 50 bars per package for $6. the candy banks are $2 each. Contact Ken Lee, (847) 967-6234. Send monetary donations to: KC Council 4338, c/o Ken Lee, 8307 N. Harlem Ave., Niles IL 60714.

The Rotary Club of Skokie Valley will hold a holiday plant-sale fundraiser to support local area charities. as in years past the sale features poinsettias, azaleas, holiday wreaths and balsam ropes coming directly from a wholesaler’s greenhouse. Plants may be picked up or delivered before Thanksgiving or anytime before Dec. 18 from an Evanston greenhouse. Prices start at $8. for more details call mark Schneiderman, (847) 933-4354.

Entertainment Books are available from the Knights of Columbus Council 4338. the 2010 edition costs $20 each with a wide selection of metropolitan areas to choose from. all proceeds are donated to area charities. To reserve a book call Mel Koenigs, (847) 966-2293.

Our Lady of Ransom Parish in Niles is selling Entertainment 2010 Books, $20. the book offers a variety of values, mainly two-for-one deals at many restaurants and establishments. Discounts also cover travel, car rentals, movie theaters, hotel discounts and more. Proceeds benefit the parish. To order a book call Josephine Bax, (847) 823-2550.

Saint Benedict Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, 6930 W. Touhy Ave., will present, “Osteoporosis and Bone Density Testing: What You need to Know” from 1-3 p.m. Dec. 2. this free, informative lecture by a Resurrection Health Care physician will describe the causes, effects and ways to prevent bone loss. a free bone density test, which is painless and uses small amounts of X-rays, will also be offered. Attendees should dress comfortably and do not have to remove any clothing. Refreshments will be served after the program. Space is limited and reservations are necessary. call Saint Benedict Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, (847) 647-0003 by Nov. 30 for to reserve a space.

To focus a much-needed, objective light on the ethical concerns regarding the national debate on healthcare reform, the LIFE Institute of Rainbow Hospice and Palliative Care will host a public forum on “Ethics and Healthcare Reform” at 7 p.m. Nov. 19 at Edison Park Lutheran Church, 6626 N. Oliphant Ave., Chicago. AP-award-winner and Emmy-nominated Margaret Shortridge, FOX Chicago’s former medical reporter of 10 years, will moderate the panel of four healthcare experts. the panel includes a nationally recognized palliative care physician, hospice nurse, reverend and medical ethicist, and end-of-life care physician. Attendees are invited to engage the panel on the ethical and moral impacts of proposed federal legislation. Free and open to the public; no registration required. call (847 732-4554.

“Transition to Wellness,” a new educational series on positive aging, will be in November and December at Lieberman Center for Health and Rehabilitation, 9700 gross Point Road, Skokie. Sessions begin at 7 p.m. except where noted. Classes are free and open to the public. Light refreshments follow presentations. for reservations call Lauren Galuszka, (847) 929-3229. Sponsored by CJE SeniorLife, the classes will kick off with “Dementia,” a four-part Monday series, including “It’s Not always Alzheimer’s: Types and Stages of Dementia” Nov. 23 with speaker Dr. Herb Sier and CJE’s vice president of medical affairs; “Memory Support Programs, Activities and Resources” Nov. 30 with Deb DelSignore, creative arts therapist; “Ask the Doctor: Dementia Medications and What to Expect” Dec. 7 featuring Dr. Vadim Edelstein; and “Dementia and Family Caregivers” Dec. 14 with Deb DelSignore, creative-arts therapist, and Peggy Best, MSW, LSW. Other talks include: “What is Sub-acute Rehabilitation?” Nov. 10, conducted by Ed Thelen; “Laughter Yoga” with Caryl Derenfeld at 10 a.m. Nov. 16; and “Managing Change as Your Parents Age” with Joan Richman Ente, LCSW, on Nov. 19, wraps up the lecture series.

Resurrection Medical Center, 7435 West Talcott, Chicago, will offer the following health programs. Advanced registration is required, unless noted otherwise, by calling 1-877-737-4636. Free on-site parking is available.

Ongoing programs – Moms In Motion: Prenatal and postpartum moms are invited to participate in this land/water exercise program offered Mondays and Wednesday from 4:30-5:30 p.m. at Club Res Fitness Center. Fee: $5/class. call 773-990-5600 for more information. Yoga: all levels are welcome. Classes are Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6-7:30 p.m., and Saturdays, 9-10:30 a.m. at Resurrection Medical Center. Fee: $8/class or $75 for a 10 class punch card. call the Health Management Department at 773-792-5022 for details.

Senior Advocate of Advocate Lutheran General Hospital offers free blood-pressure screenings from 10 a.m.-noon on 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.

The Twenty-first Star Chapter of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution announces the annual American History Essay Contest. all students in fifth, sixth, seventh and eighth grades in public, private or parochial schools, and those who are home schooled are eligible. this contest is conducted without regard to race, religion, sex or national origin. the Twenty-first Star Chapter of NSDAR is looking for students to compete in this year’s contest. the topic for 2009-10 is “The Completion of the first Transcontinental Railroad.” (Describe how you felt on May 10, 1869, when the golden spike was driven at Promontory Summit, Utah, to celebrate the completion of the first Transcontinental Railroad. Pretend you are either a settler planning to use the train to travel to your new home in the West, an Irish or Chinese worker who helped build the line or a Native American whose way of life was greatly affected by the railroad.) One essay at each grade level will be selected as the chapter winner and forwarded to the State American History Chairman for state competition. Deadline for submission is Dec. 1. Students interested are asked to contact Nancy Meyer for specific guidelines at (847) 824-1150.

Niles Public Library, 6960 W. Oakton St., (847) 663-1234 or online at nileslibrary.org.

The Go Club for ages 6 to 12 usually meets the first and third Saturdays of each month on a drop-in basis.

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, (847) 696-0761. To schedule a ride or for information call FISH coordinator Gloria Stepek, (847) 297-2510, Ext. 283.

Boot Camp for Expectant Dads is taught by a certified master coach who equips expectant dads to confidently interact with their infant, support the new mom and build their fatherhood skills. the next class will be offered from 9 a.m.-noon Dec. 5 at Lutheran General Hospital, 1775 Dempster St., Park Ridge. To register, call HealthAdvisor at 1-800-323-8622 or visit advocatehealth.com. the reference code for this course is 8B29.

Advocate Lutheran General Hospital is offering a six-hour Baby Care and Development Class designed for couples who are expecting their first child, grandparents, childcare givers and adoptive parents. Topics include physical care, safety, sleep, common concerns, immunizations and development, birth through 12 months of age. the next class will be offered from 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Nov. 21 at Lutheran General Hospital, 1775 Dempster St., Park Ridge. Fee is $40 per couple or $30 per couple if taken in conjunction with the Weekend Childbirth Series or Labor, Birth and Postpartum Class. To register, call HealthAdvisor at 1-800-323-8622 or visit advocatehealth.com. the code for this class is 8B11.

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 is accepting registration for its popular Small Shots Basketball Program for kindergartners and first- and second- grade girls and boys. this six-week class begins Dec. 5 with 9 a.m., 10:15 or 11:30 a.m. starting times. Participants will learn dribbling, shooting, defense and offense skills and play in game situations. all skill levels are welcome. Fees are $57 for residents and $71 for nonresidents, and include a T-shirt and basketball. Register at Howard Leisure Center, 6676 W. Howard St. call (847) 967-1529.

Niles Park District New 3’s Preschool is offered for children who turned 3 after Sept. 1, 2009, missing the deadline for the regular 3-year preschool. Classes are held Tuesdays/Thursdays or Wednesdays/Fridays, from 12:30-2 p.m. at Howard Leisure Center. Session runs Jan. 5 to May 27. call (847) 967-6633.

Niles Park District introduces a new camp called School’s Out Sport Camp. the camp will be available on five school holidays. the main emphasis of the camp is to provide safe, fun-filled days of playing and learning sports. Campers should bring a sack lunch and beverage. Camp takes place at Grennan Heights on Veterans Day, Martin Luther King Day, Presidents Day and Pulaski Day. Fees are: residents, $36; nonresidents, $45 per day. call (847) 967-1529.

Resident and nonresident registration for Niles Park District Bright Beginnings Preschool for 2009-10 is still taking place. Spaces are still available in the morning and afternoon for 3- and 4-year-old classes. Registration is accepted at the Howard Leisure Center, 6676 W. Howard St., until classes are filled. call (847) 967-6633 to have information mailed.

Niles Park District is still taking registration for fall Dance classes. Classes include Budding Ballerinas for ages 2-3, Pre-Ballet for ages 3-5, Ballet & Tap for ages 4-9, Jazz for ages 6-12, and Hip Hop for ages 6-12. Classes for adults are also available. call (847) 967-6633.

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

Golf Maine

The Golf Maine Park District has taken a new and innovative approach in raising much-needed funds for the park and spreading the word on energy efficiency. the 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 also be available. a recycling bin for used CFLs will also be available. CFLs may be purchased at Feldman Park, 8800 Kathy Lane, Niles, from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. call (847) 297-3000.

The 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 topaperretriever.com/.

Golf Maine Park District is taking registration for:

Adult Bingo: 10 a.m.-2 p.m., first Wednesday of the month, split-the-pot bingo at the Feldman Recreation Center.

Preschool: Early registration is important to ensure child a space for the fall 2009 semester. a five-day morning program and a four-day afternoon program are offered for children turning 4 years old by Sept. 1, 2009.

Cricket: Dee Park now has a cricket pitch that will be ready for use this spring. call the park district for rental fees or availability.

Visit one of the Park District offices, Feldman Recreation Center, 8800 Kathy Lone (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.

St. John Brebeuf Adoration Chapel is observing its fifth anniversary. the 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.

Registrations for the St. John Brebeuf “Joy in Jesus” Sunday preschool program are being taken. the program is open to children ages 3 1/2 through kindergarten age. Classes are held during the 10:45 a.m. Mass each Sunday. Registration fee is $40 and covers all materials for the year. Special emphasis is given to the development of self-awareness in the children and their place in the Christian community. the goal of the program is to provide a foundation for a future understanding of their faith. To register call Charlotte Lindquist, (847) 470-1434.

Ezra-Habonim, the 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 are welcome. call (847) 675-4141, or go to ehnt.org.

St. John Brebeuf School in Niles is looking for graduates from the class of 1964. Contact Libby Ryder at lryder@sjbschool.org.

Elmwood Park High School Class of 1970 is planning its 40th reunion for the fall of 2010. Classmates are asked to e-mail Christine Thomas Cowan (ctcowan@sbcglobal.net) or Janice Ryden Deaton (deaton_janice@yahoo.com) to place their information on the contact list.

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

Immaculate Conception School on Talcott Avenue in Chicago is establishing an Alumni Association. In preparation for its 100th-anniversary celebration the school is searching for its missing alumni. If you attended Immaculate Conception School or know someone who did, e-mail ICalumni@icparish.net, or call the rectory, (773) 775-3833. Alumni who prefer to reach the association by mail are encouraged to send their first, maiden or last name, phone number, e-mail address, the year in which they graduated, along with their favorite IC memory and favorite IC teacher, to: IC Alumni Association, c/o Immaculate Conception Parish, 7211 W. Talcott Ave., Chicago IL 60631. Submissions may also be dropped off at the IC Parish Rectory during normal business hours or after Masses on Sunday.

The Maine Township MaineStreamers 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. Contact the MaineStreamers, (847) 297-2510, or go to mainetownship.com.

Spend 10 nights traveling the islands of Hawaii aboard the Pride of America from Jan. 20-30. the trip will consist of three nights in Honolulu and a seven-night Hawaiian cruise. the trip includes home pickup, round-trip airfare, all meals aboard the ship, daily entertainment, shipboard activities and lectures, all transfers and baggage handling.

Volunteer drivers are needed for FISH. If interested in providing transportation to township residents who need local rides to medical appointments, etc., call Gloria Stepek, (847) 297-2510, ext. 283.

Maine Township is asking for assistance in locating good, reliable handymen in the area. If you know of someone and would like to submit a name, contact Therese Tully, (847) 297-2510, Ext. 260, and she will forward a form to complete.

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

National Family Caregivers Association and Home Instead Senior Care will sponsor a free web conference, “The Best Care for Your Parents: Senior Care Solutions and Potential Pitfalls,” at 6 p.m. Nov. 19. the 45-minute presentation is held in conjunction with November’s National Family Caregiver’s Month. Co-hosted by Suzanne Mintz, president and CEO of the NFCA and Home Instead Senior Care Co-Founder and CEO Paul Hogan. To register, go to caregiverstress.com.

Advocate Lutheran General Hospital is offering a six-hour Baby Care and Development Class designed for couples who are expecting their first child, grandparents, childcare givers and adoptive parents. Topics include physical care, safety, sleep, common concerns, immunizations and development, birth through 12 months of age. the next class will be offered from 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Nov. 21 at Lutheran General Hospital, 1775 Dempster St., Park Ridge. Fee is $40 per couple or $30 per couple if taken in conjunction with the Weekend Childbirth Series or Labor, Birth and Postpartum Class. To register, call HealthAdvisor at 1-800-323-8622 or visit advocatehealth.com. the code for this class is 8B11.

Jewish Senior Singles Social Club meets for dinner and a variety of programs. call (847) 676-2872.

The North Shore Senior Center, located in Northfield, is looking for volunteers to deliver meals to seniors living in Maine Township. Deliveries are made during weekdays. for more information on becoming a volunteer, contact Maura Rogan at (847) 784-6052 or e-mail mrogan@nssc.org.

Super Seniors, a 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.

The Niles Senior Center needs donations of items or gift certificates from various businesses for prizes for their “Picture This” photo contest. any business that makes a donation will be mentioned in the newsletter, as well as on a certificate accompanying the photos. the photos will be on display at the Village Hall as well as at the Senior Center. To donate, call Kathlyn Williams, program coordinator, Niles Senior Center, (847) 588-8420 or fax (847) 588-8455.

The Niles Senior Center offers free membership to Niles residents age 62 and older, and their spouses. Only center members may register for classes or trips, or purchase tickets. Drop by the Niles Senior Center, 999 Civic Center Drive, Niles, or call (847) 588-8420, for an application.

The Advocate Addiction Treatment Program of Advocate Medical Group has formed an alumni volunteer group for former patients of the AMG-Parkside, Advocate Lutheran General Hospital and AATP programs. a “Meet and Greet Alumni Reunion” will be held from 6-8:30 p.m. Dec. 4 at 701 Lee St., Suite 800, Des Plaines. all former patients are invited. Mary Gallagher, intake counselor and continuing care counselor for AATP, will address coping and surviving the holidays. Suggestions and ideas on ways to deal with triggers, stress and anxiety during the holidays will be followed by a question-and-answer period. Reservations are required; call or e-mail Maureen Collins, (847) 795-3964, or Maureen.Collins@advocatehealth.com.

American Foundation for Suicide Prevention hosts a Healing Conference at 11 a.m. Nov. 21 at the Renaissance Chicago O’Hare, 8500 W. Bryn Mawr Ave., Chicago. this conference will begin with a lunch buffet and networking. Participants will join with survivors throughout the country to watch a nationally televised webcast to learn about coping with and healing from a suicide loss. Afterward, a panel of local survivors will share the various ways that they have worked through their grief. Small groups will follow and a meaningful closing ceremony will end the day. Cost is $20 per participant. Visit afsp.org/illinois/SOS or call (847) 695-6799.

Rainbow Hospice and Palliative Care’s Bereavement Department offers a special “Grief & the Holidays” program to help explore positive alternatives during the holiday season. Dec. 3, 7:15-8;15 p.m.: Resurrection Retirement Center, 7262 W. Peterson Ave., Chicago. call (847) 692-8884.

Good Mourning Program is a monthly support group of Rainbow Hospice for children, teenagers and families who have lost a loved one through death. it meets 6:45-8 p.m. the third Monday of each month at Lutheran General Family Care Center, 9375 Church St., Des Plaines. call (847) 692-8884.

An Alzheimer’s 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.

A new bereavement program, created by Rainbow Hospice and Palliative Care, offers Polish-language support and resources to Chicago-area residents of Polish heritage as well as Polish-speaking immigrants grieving the loss of a loved one. Bereaved members of the community may call (847) 292-2342 at any time to talk with or leave messages for licensed Polish-speaking counselors and trained volunteers who can answer questions about the grief process, share information about how to help someone who is bereaved and to find assistance with culturally sensitive bereavement support. Along with the Polish Intake Line, the Rainbow Hospice and Palliative Care Bereavement Program also offers a Web portal through rainbowhospice.org/polish with Polish-language resources about general grief, children’s bereavement and culturally based programs offered by Rainbow Hospice and Palliative Care. call (847) 732-4554 or Jokazaki@rainbowhospice.org.

The 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.

The Les Turner ALS Foundation Support Group meets from 7-8:30 p.m. on 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.

The Stroke Club of Advocate Lutheran General Hospital meets from 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 is a monthly daytime group for widowed people grieving the loss of a spouse. it meets from 1-2:30 p.m. the fourth Wednesday of the month at Rainbow Hospice and Palliative Care, 444 N. Northwest Highway, Suite 145, Park Ridge. Registration is required. Admission is $5 per session.

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 Rainbow Hospice and Palliative Care, 444 N. Northwest Highway, Suite 145, Park Ridge. the fee is $5 per session.

A Widowed Support Group is an ongoing support group that addresses losses faced by persons, as a general guideline, who have been widowed less than two years. it will meet at 7 p.m. on the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month, at Rainbow Hospice and Palliative Care, 444 N. Northwest Highway, Park Ridge. Cost is $5 per session. call (847) 685-9900.

Good Mourning Program will meet 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.

Weight No More, a friendly weight-loss support group, is welcoming new members. Discussions include weight-loss tips, recipes, contests and helpful ideas to help you reach your goal. Meetings are 9:30-10:15 a.m. Fridays at Howard Leisure Center, 6676 Howard St., Niles, lower level (elevator accessible). Weigh-ins are 9:15-9:30 am., meetings from 9:30-10:15 a.m. Cost is $5 per month. call (847) 679-4229.

TARA APD Chicago – Treatment and Research Advancements Association for Personality Disorders holds a monthly support group for people with loved ones suffering from borderline personality disorder or emotional disregulation. the meeting is at Rush North Shore, 9600 gross Point Road, Skokie, from 6:30-8:30 p.m. the third Wednesday of the month. E-mail rh5mail-tara@yahoo.com for the room number or more information.

Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation support group meets from 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 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:

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

The Leukemia & Lymphoma 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 is a support group for children ages 6 to 13 whose parent or caretaker has been diagnosed with cancer. the group meets every first Wednesday of the month. Registration and parental consent are required.

The us too! Prostate Cancer Support Group meets every second Wednesday of the month.

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

Multiple Sclerosis 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 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 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 from 5-7 p.m. at Resurrection Rehabilitation Center of Chicago, first floor, Professional Building, Entrance C. call (773) 594-7866.

Advocate Lutheran General Hospital is forming a support network for women living with breast cancer. the Breast Cancer Networking Group will meet from 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.

Families Anonymous is a free, 12-step, self-help support program for family members and friends who are concerned about the substance abuse or behavioral problems of a loved one. Families Anonymous meets weekly from noon to 1 p.m. Thursdays at the Park Ridge Community Church, 100 Courtland Ave., Park Ridge; use the side entrance on Butler Place. There are no dues or fees. first names only are used at the meetings to preserve anonymity. this is a nonprofessional and nonreligious program. Advance notice is not necessary. Visitors are always welcome. call the church office, (847) 823-3164, or contact Families Anonymous, 1-800-736-9805, or familiesanonymous.org.

Butterfly Group for Bereaved Parents meets the second Tuesday of each month at 7:30 p.m. in the St. John Brebeuf Rectory, 8307 N. Harlem Ave. all bereaved parents, family and friends are welcome whether their loss is recent or many years ago. call Anna LaCorte, (847) 965-2771, or the rectory, (847) 966-8145.

Midwest Palliative & Hospice CareCenter grief support groups meet at various locations across its service area. Grief support groups are free; donations are accepted. call (800) 331-5484 to register. the schedule for 2009 spring/summer includes: at 2050 Claire Court, Glenview — Adult Loss, 6:30-8 p.m. Mondays; Daytime Spouse Loss, 10:30 a.m. to noon Wednesdays; Evening Spouse Loss, 6:30-8 p.m. Mondays; Drop-in Group, first and third Fridays, noon to 1:30 p.m. at 6133 N. Northwest Highway, Chicago — Families with Children Loss Group meets every third Monday, 6:30-7:30 p.m., or in Glenview, 6:30-7:45 p.m. Wednesdays.

A new Al-Anon group is being formed at Messiah Lutheran Church, 1605 Vernon Ave., Park Ridge. for information call the church office, (847) 823-6984, between 9 a.m.-3 p.m. during the week.

The National Alliance on Mental Illness Cook County North Suburban invites the public to attend its Caring and Sharing monthly support group. this group is for family and friends of people with a mental illness and offers the opportunity to share problems and learn how others have overcome them. this program is free and meets from 7-8:30 p.m. the first Monday of every month at the Kenton-Knox Conference Center (Rush North Shore Medical Center), 9701 N. Knox Ave., Skokie. call NAMI CCNS, (847) 724-1460, or visit namiccns.org.

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.comto be added to the e-mail list for meeting announcements.

The Maryville Crisis Nursery, 4015 N. Oak Park Ave., Chicago, offers a safe harbor for children 5 and younger when parents have nowhere to turn during a family or personal crisis. it is a free, center-based program where children may stay for as long as three days. Its goal is to prevent abuse and neglect of children and help a family stabilize its situation by providing support and resources. Examples of a crisis include domestic violence, parental stress, medical emergency or respite care. the 24-hour Help Line is (773) 205-3637.

An area Alzheimer’s 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 are always welcome. call Jessi Lenth, group facilitator, (7O8) 583-8509.

Queen of all Saints hosts a weekly meeting for female survivors of sexual abuse. the meetings are from 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 from 7-8:30 p.m. Fridays at St. Juliana Parish Center, 7200 Osceola Ave. call Linda, (773) 271-2281.

The Niles Youth Council is 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. they meet 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.

The Teen 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 will be made with residents in need of services.

Register your bike through the Niles Teen Center or Niles Police Department. 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.

Many individuals have found themselves laid off or unable to find employment. Rainbow Hospice and Palliative Care would like to respond by helping professionals 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 will be provided. Contact the Volunteer Coordinator at (847) 685-9900, Ext. 3128, or rparrow@rainbowhospice.org. Visit rainbowhospice.org

Junior Achievement of Chicago is a nonprofit organization focused on inspiring and preparing young people to succeed in the global economy. Volunteers from businesses are trained and given materials to go into a classroom and teach students from kindergarten through high school about financial literacy and entrepreneurship-work readiness skills. Partnerships have been formed with some teachers at Niles North, Central and West High Schools for JA programs this school year. Volunteers are needed. each program consists of five visits to the classroom for about 45-50 minutes each. If interested call Kristin Goodwin, operations manager, Junior Achievement of Chicago, (708) 456-1400, Ext. 245, e-mail kgoodwin@jachicago.org or go to jachicago.org.

The Men’s Association of Advocate Lutheran General Hospital has recently expanded its role and membership base in the community and adopted a new name to reflect that change: the Men’s and Women’s Association of Lutheran General Hospital. the change will allow the nonprofit organization to sponsor more events, encourage greater participation in annual activities, such as the golf outing and fund-raising sales, expand opportunities for men and women to take on leadership roles, and increase collaborative efforts with the hospital’s development office, Service League and the Advocate Charitable Foundation. the organization’s donations have assisted Lutheran General in expanding its programs, purchasing state-of-the-art medical equipment and pursuing research and education efforts. call (847) 723-6105.