April 6, 2012 9:27AM
Updated: April 6, 2012 5:41PM
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Center of Concern
the Center of Concern, 1580 N. Northwest Highway, Suite 310, Park Ridge, (847) 823-0453, calendar of events includes:
Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays – Income tax preparation, by appointment.
Mondays, April 16, 23, and 30 – Employment counseling, by appointment.
Tuesday – April 17 – Medicare counseling, by appointment (sponsored by the federally funded Senior Health Insurance Program).
Wednesday, April 18 – Grief and loss support group (call first).
Saturday, April 21 – Legal counseling, by appointment.
Saturday, April 28– Blood pressure and blood sugar testing, 10 a.m.-noon (no appointment needed).
Homeowners desiring additional income, companionship, or the ability to remain in their homes may wish to consider the Center of Concern’s Shared Housing Program. Residents are matched with screened applicants who possess a temperament suitable to shared accommodations.
Preparation of simple wills and durable powers of attorney for health care and property also is available by appointment. all services are offered at the Center of Concern offices, 1580 N. Northwest Highway, no. 310, 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.
Paul C. Odrobina, vice president of the Polish National Alliance, reminds members of Polish American Night being celebrated at U.S. Cellular Field on July 3, beginning at 7:10 p.m. when the White Sox play the Texas Rangers. Tickets can be purchased from the Polish National Alliance, (800) 621-3723, Ext. 316; Polish Roman Catholic Union, (800) 772-8632, Ext. 2601; Polish Falcons of America (574) 289-2140); or the Polish Women’s Alliance, (888) 522-1898, Ext. 1208.
The St. Eugene Altar & Rosary Society will present its annual spring luncheon, “As Time Goes By,” April 14 at the Rosewood Banquets, 9421 Higgins Road, Rosemont. Tickets are $35 for beef or salmon or $30 for pork or chicken. Call (708) 867-7884 or (708) 457-1907 for tickets.
The Korean War Veterans Association, Greater Chicago Chapter no. 25, meet at 7 p.m. on the fourth Wednesday of each month at the Montclare-Leyden VFW Post, 6940 W. Diversey Ave. Call Joe Henmueller, (773) 774-9671.
The Norridge-Harwood Heights Rotary Club meets at 12:15 p.m. Tuesdays during the lunch hour at Vince’s Restaurant, 4747 N. Harlem Ave. Attend as a guest and learn more about the club and how to become involved in the community.
The Polish Women’s Alliance has a research library and reading room based on the Polish experience, at 6643 N. Northwest Highway, second floor, Chicago. many wonderful books both in Polish and English are available to browse and read. Hours are 9 a.m.-3 p.m. For a list of already-catalogued books visit www.pwaa.org and click on the library button. Contact Vice President Sharon Zago (847) 384-1208 or Treasurer Barbara Miller (847) 384-1206.
For area residents interested in learning more about their home, the Norwood Park Historical Society will host its annual House History and Renovator Resource Day, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. April 28, at the Noble-Seymour-Crippen House, 5624 N. Newark Ave., Chicago. the society will provide references on housing styles, appropriate renovations, and how to find more information about individual properties. Historic maps, older street names and addresses, and society researchers will be available to consult. At noon and 2 p.m., Anne Lunde will present a PowerPoint presentation, “Tell me about My House – I Know It’s old,” explaining research steps for Cook County properties in the Northwest Side and nearby suburbs. For properties within the Norwood Park neighborhood, additional historical information is available on former residents and many buildings that have been included in the society’s annual house tours, community walks, articles, and other research projects. the society is currently preparing a history of Norwood Park in the 19th Century. the society’s exhibits will be open until 4 p.m., including a special 100th anniversary display featuring the history of area Girl Scouts. Admission is free and the event is open to the public. Donations are welcome for research assistance provided. Call (773) 631-4633 or e-mail info@norwoodparkhistoricalsociety.org.
St. Eugene Parish will stage “Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat” in Shaunessy Center, 5220 N. Canfield Ave., Chicago. Performances are 7 p.m. April 12-14 and 2 p.m. April 15. On Thursday night, Family Night, free popcorn will be available during intermission. Tickets are $10, adults; $5, children under 12. Tickets will be available at the door and rectory. Call (773) 775-6659.
Martin Luther Lutheran Church, 6850 W. Addison St., Chicago, will host an “All You Can Eat” Spaghetti Dinner and Silent Auction on April 21. Dinner is at 5 p.m. Meal will include spaghetti, salad, beverage, wine and dessert. Silent Auction items will be displayed around the room. Tickets may be purchased in advance or at the door and are $10 for adults (12 years and older); $5 for children (ages 5-11); free for children under 5. Call (773) 777-8821. see www.martinluther.info. Chair lift available.
The Norwood Park Historical Society is hosting a special exhibit on Chicago area Girl Scouts, “The 100th Anniversary of Girl Scouts of the USA, 1912-2012,” in conjunction with the national anniversary celebration in March. the display is open every Saturday from noon-4 p.m. at the Historical Society’s Noble-Seymour-Crippen House, 5624 N. Newark Ave., Chicago. it will close at the beginning of November. Special tours are available by appointment. Call (773) 631-4633 for more information.
Local resident John Divita offers old Time Radio online at www.windycityhometown.com. Programs in addition to old Time Radio, include those such as “Meet the Chicago Historians,” John Divita’s big Band Showcase, John Sachanda’s Serendipity Jukebox and Stagelight Cabaret.
The Solid Waste Agency of 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.-4 p.m., Mondays through Fridays. Additional drop-off sites are posted at swancc.org/recycling/batteryrecycling.html.
Any women interested in joining the Rainbow Hospice and Palliative Care Threshold Singers 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., 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, 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.
Under the leadership of 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.
Friendship Presbyterian Church presents Friday Night Love Songs featuring the country music quartet, Sugarcreek Road, at 7:30 p.m. April 13 at the Norwood Park train station, 6088 Northwest Highway, Chicago. Doors will open at 7 p.m., and beverages will be served. Admission is free but a freewill donation is requested to support Grace Commons, a missioned church serving the Humboldt Park community. Call Ralph Intagliata, (847) 778-1066.
The Ridgewood High School Parents’ Club presents “15 Game Bingo Night” in the school, 7500 W. Montrose Ave., on April 14. first game is at 6 p.m.; doors open at 5. Call (708) 456-4242, Ext. 799.
Free health screenings and yoga, zumba and cooking demonstrations will be offered at “A Day just for You,” women’s health fair from 9 a.m.-noon April 21 at Resurrection Medical Center, 7435 W. Talcott Ave., Chicago. Doctors and dieticians will be on hand to answer questions, at no charge. the health fair will feature hearing, skin, breast, blood pressure and hand screenings as well as body fat analysis. Participants will be able to pick up mail-in colorectal cancer screening kits. a yoga demonstration will be held at 9:15 a.m., a zumba demonstration (fitness program that combines Latin dance with aerobics) at 10:15 a.m., and a healthy cooking demonstration at 11:15 a.m. the fair will also feature bra fittings, chair massages, personal training sessions and a book trade. There will be a continental breakfast, raffle prizes, and gift bags. Registration in advance is required; call (877) 737-4636.
Advocate Lutheran General Hospital presents the Community Healthbeat lecture series. during April, topics will focus on “Healthy Children.” 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. There is no charge, however registration is required. Call 1-800-323-8622 and mention the class code 8G52 or visit www.advocateheatlh.com/luth click on “I need a class or support group” and type in the class code 8G52 — April 17: ADHD, Dr. James Weedon, developmental and behavioral pediatrician; April 24: Food Allergies, Dr. mark Miller, pediatric allergist.
For adults with drug, alcohol and related health issues, a new inpatient stabilization service has opened at our Lady of the Resurrection Medical Center, 5645 W. Addison St., Chicago. This service, known as the new Vision service, accepts appropriate adults who are suffering incapacitation due to the effects of drugs or alcohol, or are experiencing acute withdrawal symptoms and related health problems. it consists of a medically supervised hospital stay for inpatient stabilization that typically lasts three days. Prior to leaving the hospital, the patient will be referred to appropriate community-based outpatient treatment programs. Most insurance, Medicaid and Medicare plans are accepted. Call (773) 794-8483.
Our Lady of the Resurrection Medical Center, 5645 W. Addison St., Chicago, will offer the following health events. Free parking is available in the hospital’s parking facility on Addison Street:
a free Healthy Aging Program will be held from 1-2:30 p.m. April 13 in the seventh-floor Centennial Conference Center. This program for individuals aged 55 and older consists of social time, health topics and guest lectures. Discussion will focus on what telemedicine is and how it is used to care for patients. Registration is not required.
Free cataract and glaucoma screenings will be held from 9-11:30 a.m. April 16. Ophthalmologist Dr. Kathleen Scarpulla and staff will perform eye examinations for cataracts and glaucoma. do not wear contact lenses but bring eyeglasses along. Advance registration is required by calling 1-(877) 737-4636.
Free hearing screenings will be given from 9 a.m.-noon April 17. Audiologists Steven Wolinsky, and Marie Vetter will perform this screening in a soundproof booth in the second-floor Audiology Department. Advance registration is required by calling 1-(877) 737-4636.
Free informational sessions about bariatric surgery will be held at 6:30 p.m. April 17 and 6 p.m. April 25. Bariatric surgeons will discuss the benefits of bariatric surgery for obese individuals and will explain available procedures and eligibility requirements. Register by calling (847) 742-8446).
Free blood pressure screenings will be offered from 9-10 a.m. April 23 in the hospital’s main lobby. a health care professional will perform screenings and answer questions about blood pressure readings. Registration is not required.
the Arthritis Support Group will meet from 1-2:30 p.m. April 26 in the seventh-floor Centennial Conference Center. These free sessions aim to provide mutual support and education. Registration is not required.
A free lecture titled “Telemedicine—Advancing Health Care for You” will be given from 6-7:30 p.m. April 26. Telemedicine is the use of telecommunications and information technologies to provide healthcare at a distance. This technology helps improve access to medical services and saves lives in critical and emergency situations. Refreshments will be served. Advance registration is required by calling 1-(877) 737-4636.
The Pacemaker/Cardiac Device Support Group will meet from 2-3 p.m. April 25 in the seventh- floor Centennial Conference Center C. Cardiology staff will conduct sessions and answer questions related to pacemakers and internal cardiac defibrillators. Registration is not required.
our Lady of the Resurrection Medical Center, 5645 W Addison St., offers a comprehensive medical weight loss program to help individuals suffering from obesity. the program includes four minimally invasive surgical solutions – laparoscopic gastric bypass, laparoscopic gastric band, single incision laparoscopic gastric band and laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy. These procedures, along with post-operative changes in diet and lifestyle, can help severely overweight people lose excess weight and improve their overall health. a comprehensive approach to weight loss and weight management is tailored for each individual with full support from a multidisciplinary team. the program is under the direction of general surgeon, Dr. Frederick Tiesenga, who has performed more than 400 bariatric surgery procedures. he is fellowship-trained in laparoscopic gastric bypass, and is an affiliate surgeon of the American Society of Bariatric Surgeons and a U.S. Surgical Proctor for Bariatric Surgery. Starting in 2012, free informative sessions will be held the third Tuesday of each month, 6-8 p.m. to register for any of the sessions, call (708) 456-7874.
Senior Advocate of 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.
Kidwinks.com is a website that provides free and easy information about the Chicago area’s hottest family-friendly activities, free or budget-friendly events and easy-to-access activities, developed by Nina Taluc and Jean Lemke, two Park Ridge moms. the database includes relevant listings from area museums, park districts, libraries, city and county organizations, businesses and more. Parents can quickly click through the events calendar to find out what is happening on any given day, plan ahead for a special weekend or when guests come to visit. Kidwinks members, who join for free, can also sign up to receive email reminders of upcoming events they do not want to miss. Cruise through the activities area to find activities that meet specific interests or to get ideas of new places to visit. the kids eat free calendar is a popular feature, showing for any given day where kids can eat free or at a discount. Free and discounted admission days at area zoos and museums are listed on the events calendar for easy access and planning. Kidwinks members can sort any search result list in order of distance from their house, so they can choose those closest to them. Members can also sign up for Kidwinks’ weekly newsletter sent by e-mail, which highlights some of their favorite picks for the upcoming week, and also announces regular contests for prizes such as gift cards, tickets to area shows and amusement centers and products. Visit www.kidwinks.com.
Eisenhower Public Library, 4613 N. Oketo Ave., Harwood Heights. Call (708) 867-7828 or (708) 452-8989 to register for all programs or online at eisenhowerlibrary.org:
Fiction writer Marge Skelly will help participants craft the perfect short story by looking at plots, themes, and the essentials of good writing. This is a four week class which continues from 7:30-8:45 p.m. Wednesdays, April 18 and 25. Plan to attend all four sessions.
Bus Trip to the Oriental Institute from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. April 17 – the Oriental Institute Museum is a world-renowned showcase for the history, art, and archaeology of the ancient Near East. the museum displays objects recovered by Oriental Institute excavations in permanent galleries devoted to ancient Egypt, Nubia, Persia, Mesopotamia, Syria, Anatolia, and the ancient site of Megiddo, as well as rotating special exhibits such as “Picturing the past,” the newest exhibit for the Institute. Charge is $20.
Computer classes – Excel parts 1 and 2, 7-8:30 p.m. April 17 and 19; Email for Beginners, 2:30-4:30 p.m. April 23; Internet for Beginners, 7-8 p.m. April 25; Picnik Photo Editing, 7-8 p.m. April 26.
Classic Films continue at Eisenhower – “Black Hawk Down” directed by Ridley Scott on April 12. “The twelve Chairs” with Mel Brooks on April 26. Discussions with Ralph J. Amelio follow. Films begin at 1 p.m.
Susan Marie Frontczak ,actor and storyteller, presents a full-length one-woman drama introducing the amazing life of Marie Curie, Nobel Prize winning scientist, from 2-4 p.m. April 22.
Singer Petra van Nuis and guitarist Andy Brown present an intimate evening of jazz from 7-8 p.m. April 26.
Friends of the Library meet from 6-8 p.m. on the third Wednesday of each month.
Pen and Ink Adult Writers meet every third Monday of the month, 6:30-8:45 p.m.
Anonymous Writers for Teens meet from 4-5:30 p.m. every Thursday.
Tired of Knitting alone – Join the Knitting Circle which meets the first Tuesday of every month from 7-8:30 p.m. and the third Tuesday of every month from 2:30-3:30 p.m. Bring needles and yarn and knit over snacks and coffee. no registration.
Maryville Crisis Nursery, 4015 N. Oak Park Ave., Chicago, conducts Baby Talk Classes for parents and children up to age 6 at 5 p.m. every third Wednesday of each month. Topics include dealing with stress, fun indoor activities, and exploring social connections. There is no charge for the classes and pre-registration is not required. There is no charge, and registration is not required. Call (773) 205-3600.
Norridge Park District, 4631 N. Overhill Ave., (708) 457-1244 or visit www.norridgepk.com.
A Teen Dance for sixth- to eighth-graders will be held from 7-9 p.m. April 20 at the Norridge Park District. Fee is $5 person, payable at the door. Come dance to popular music; soda and snacks will be available for purchase. Proper attire must be worn.
Insects & Other Creepy Crawlies will be presented for ages 3 to 12 on April 23. Agers 3 to 5 will meet from 3-4 p.m.; ages 6 to 12, from 5-7 p.m. Participants will work on fun projects, perform experiments and meet some live specimens, exploring with magnifying glasses and microscopes. Cost is $15, residents or $20, nonresidents, for ages 3 to 5; $29, residents or $34, nonresidents, for ages 6 to 12.
The Norridge Park District invites all interested teams, captains and/or players of 16-inch softball summer leagues to pick up information packets for fees, registration dates, league payouts (prize money), etc. There are Early Bird specials for registration fees. a captains meting is scheduled for 7 p.m. May 8. Contact Tom Ludwig, recreation supervisor at (708) 457-1244.
Immaculata High School Alumnae Association hosts its annual awards luncheon/reunion beginning at 11:30 a.m. April 22 at the Chateau Ritz, 9100 N. Milwaukee Ave., Niles. Immaculata Alumnae will give an award for service to Sonja Witschonke-Mess and for career achievement to Jeanne Meier Hardy. This is also a reunion year for classes that end in “2” and “7.” Cost is $35 by April 12, $5 additional afterward. Contact Sister Mary C. Beckman, BVM, (773) 338-2211.
Resurrection College Prep High School, 7500 W. Talcott Ave., Chicago, will celebrate an All-School Reunion Weekend April 21- 22. Events will include a 5K Fun Run/Walk starting at 9 a.m. April 21; reunion Mass in the school beginning at 4 p.m. Saturday, followed by the Wall and Honor and dinner from 6-9 p.m.; and Wizard of Oz Family Movie Day beginning at 1 p.m. April 22. Call Stefanie Thorpe at (773) 775-6616, Ext. 127, or visit www.reshs.org.
Taft High School Class of June 1952 plans a 60-year reunion on Sept. 22 at the Elks Club in Des Plaines. the reunion committee needs help in locating classmates. Contact one of the people listed below with any information (names, addresses, phone numbers and e-mail addresses) that is available. If e-mailing, put “Taft Reunion” in the subject line – Contacts: Carol (Brokaw) Yeaman, mrsyea@comcast.net; Anita (Nehring) Petersen, anitapeterseg@att.net; Carol (McGovern) Clark, (847) 537-7385; Louise (Van De Merkt) Lowry, (847) 566-6828.
The 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.
St. John Brebeuf is looking for all St. John Brebeuf School Alumni. If interested in finding out what is going on at St. John Brebeuf School or to find fellow classmates, contact Libby Ryder at (847) 966-3266 or email lryder@sjbschool.org. Submit name, year graduated, address and phone number, maiden name (if applicable) and e-mail address. Share a special story or tell how St. John Brebeuf made an impact on your life.
St. Priscilla School, 7001 W. Addison St., would like to keep alumni aware of its good news, events, and developments. anyone who graduated before 2003 is invited to update contact information by calling the school office, (773) 685-3581, or visit www.stpriscilIa.org. name and address changes keep classes connected and informed.
Rules of the Road, the two-day AARP Driver Safety Class, hosted by the Norwood Park Senior Center, will be given from 1-5 p.m. April 24 and 26 at the Senior Center, 5801 N. Natoma Ave. in Chicago. the sessions are open to persons age 55 or older who want to refresh their knowledge. Completion of the course may qualify participants for a three-year discount on their liability insurance, an aggregate savings that could exceed $100. Cost of the class is $14 per person ($12 per person for AARP members). to register, call (773) 775-6071.
Christine Trapp, a certified financial planner who has owned her own comprehensive financial planning and investment service since 1983, will discuss, “Smart Investing in a Tough Economy,” at the monthly Timely Talk at 2 p.m. April 18 at Norwood Crossing Assisted Living, 6016-20 N. Nina Ave. in Chicago. she will cover different ways to invest in equities and bonds, balance a portfolio among various sectors, explain how world events affect the market in general or in particular sectors, point out the impact of decisions or lack thereof by the Federal Reserve Bank and Congress, discuss the pressure from domestic issues on the market, value of the dollar, and unrest in emerging countries, among other factors. a question- and answer-session will follow along with light refreshments and a raffle prize drawing. Parking is available in the lot behind the building (entrance off Avondale Avenue). If attending, call (773) 577-5323.
The happy Seniors of Norwood Park Township invite township seniors to join them at noon on the third Friday of each month in the Township Hall, 7833 W. Lawrence Ave. Play cards, chat, play bingo and go on trips. Call (708) 867-5214.
St. Thecla’s Seniors Leisure Club meets at 11:30 a.m. on the first and third Thursdays of the month throughout the year. Dues are $7 per year. Meetings, parties, bingo, day trips, card-playing and more featured. to join, call (773) 774-3052.
Oriole Park “Over 50 Club” meets at 11 a.m. on the first and third Thursday of each month at Oriole Park Field House, 5430 N. Olcott Ave., Chicago. Seniors play bingo after coffee and rolls. Call (708) 457-1836.
The Mellotones, a senior chorus, have resumed rehearsals at 1 p.m. every Tuesday at Merrimac Park, 6343 W. Irving Park Road. Seniors 55 and older are encouraged to join the four-part mixed chorus in a variety of Broadway, patriotic, sacred, Hawaiian and holiday songs. Call Rudy Oliva at (773) 777-4226.
The Golden Fellowship Club welcomes adults age 55 or older who live in Norridge to its meetings at 7 p.m. the second and fourth Tuesdays of the month at the Estelle Sieb Center, at Irving Park Road and Ozark Avenue. the club offers seniors a place to chat and socialize; plays bingo after refreshments, and sponsors day trips and programs. Contact (708) 457-1836.
Mather’s–More than a Cafe, 7134 W. Higgins Ave., Chicago, invites adults 55 and older to experience professionally taught, free moderately-priced programs such as lifelong learning programs, fitness classes, free blood-pressure checks and health screenings, free consumer seminars, special-interest workshops and special events and day trips. Call (773) 774-4804. 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 – 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 offered. try the gentle-moderate exercise class, 11:15 Mondays and 10 a.m. Tuesdays featuring 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. create two unique pieces from a wide selection of beautiful beads or bring your own beads and benefit from personal instruction from Artist Juliet Christensen to create a jewelry design from noon-2 p.m. April 14. Suggested donation is $10 plus cost of beads and jewelry findings. Painters of Provence with Pamela Morton, lecturer and tour guide – Morton will join in live from Aix-en-Provence, France via Skype to discuss two of the greatest Impressionist painters and the very different work they produced in the same beautiful area at 1 p.m. April 16. Suggested donation is $5. Let’s go to the Hop! – Warrent Posternack, Chicago Oldies DJ, will provide the music of the 1950s and 1960s at 5 p.m. April 20. Light refreshments served. Cost is $5.
Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White has taken the necessary steps to make senior drivers in Illinois safer while on the road. 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 drivers license. during the refresher course participants will get an explanation of the driving exam. Additionally, people will have the opportunity to take a practice written exam. Also, for those who qualify for accessible parking, the course offers information on disability parking placards, as well as disability license plates. Visit www.cyberdriveillinois.com, and view the 2007 Review course schedule, or call (217) 782-8893 or (888) 261-5238 (TTY, NexTalk).
REFF (Recovery Education for Family) offers a Loving Interventions new self-care support program for caregivers at Dunning Library, 7455 W. Cornelia Ave. the “Loving Interventions” self-care support program will provide a monthly community group to offer caregivers self-care, burn out prevention and wellness education and support. Light refreshments will be offered. Call the Resource Help Line, (708) 536-8775.
An Alzheimer’s support group for caregivers and family members of individuals with Alzheimer’s Disease meets at 10:30 a.m. every second Saturday of the month at Central Baptist Village, 4747 N. Canfield Ave. Call (708) 583-8500.
Widowed Support Group is an ongoing support group that addresses losses faced by people, as a general guideline, who have been widowed less than two years. This group meets from 7-8:30 p.m. on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month at Rainbow Hospice Park Ridge Non-Profit Center, 720 Garden St., Park Ridge; $5 per session. Call (847) 692-8884 to register.
Families Anonymous is 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 non-professional and non-religious program. Call (773) 777-4442 or visit www.familiesanonymous.org.
REFF Organization (Family Recovery Education Group) meets at 7 p.m. on the first and third Tuesday of each month at our Lady of the Resurrection Medical Center, 5645 W. Addison St., Chicago, lower level Cafe Meeting Room. Reff has brought early intervention education, increased understanding of the addiction/recovery process and resources to improve coping skills to families living with an addicted loved one. the program is open and requires no registration. Call Resource Help Line, Chicago: (773) 800-1106 or (708) 536-8775, suburban.
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.
The 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, which opened in 2006, 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. Call (773) 205-3600.
The National Alliance on Mental Illness, Cook County North Suburban, 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.
Our Lady of the Resurrection Medical Center, 5645 W. Addison St., is offering prenatal care. the new Beginnings Prenatal Program is aimed at assisting uninsured and underinsured pregnant women by providing them with quality prenatal care, counseling and emotional support. the program is located on the second floor of the hospital. Appointments can be made by calling (773) 527-5850. Each woman who participates is offered the following services: a multilingual staff, including Polish and Spanish; an initial exam and routine office visits; lab and ultrasound tests; nutrition counseling; childbirth, infant care, parenting and breast feeding classes; and assistance in filing forms for Medicaid and the state’s all Kids program that covers children and mothers who need health insurance. a free infant car seat will be provided to those who qualify. Labor, delivery and postpartum care take will place in the Family Birthplace at Resurrection Medical Center, 7435 W. Talcott Ave., Chicago, with expert care, modern delivery capabilities and pleasant, comfortable birthing suites.
The MOMS Club is a nonprofit support group designed for the at-home mother and their children. the club holds weekly activities (play groups, outings, museums, park dates) and monthly member meetings and its popular Moms Night Out. Call (773) 853-2834 or visit http://sites.google.com/site/momsclubofnorthernchicago.
An Alzheimer’s Caregivers support group, cosponsored 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 take place from 1:30-3 p.m. the third Thursday of each month in the lower level conference room of Nesset Pavilion, 1775 Ballard Road in Park Ridge. Meetings are free and no registration is required. Contact Sandy Guarise, at (847) 318-2501.
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.
Holding onto Hope is a monthly daytime group for widowed persons who are grieving the loss of a spouse. it meets from 1-2:30 p.m. on the fourth Wednesday of the month at Rainbow Hospice Park Ridge Non-Profit Center, 720 Garden St., Park Ridge. Registration is required. Admission is $5 per session. Call (847) 692-8884.
Life Transitions Group is an ongoing support group for those who, as a general guideline, have been widowed for one to four years, meeting from 7-8:30 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday of the month at Rainbow Hospice Park Ridge Non-Profit Center, 720 Garden St., Park Ridge. Fee is $5 per session. 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. a preliminary interview is required prior to registration. Call (847) 692-8884.
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. 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). For more information, contact Carol Flanagan at (773) 792-5116.
The Cancer Support Group for cancer patients, families and friends meets monthly, every last Wednesday, 7-8:30 p.m.
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. This 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. This 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. For more information, call (773) 594-7856.
Alzheimer’s Support Group meets the second Tuesday of the month in the Health Management Classroom in the Resurrection Rehabilitation Center of Chicago, first floor, Professional Building, Entrance C. Free. For more information, call Health Management at (773) 792-5022.
Afterglow Support Group for stroke survivors and their family/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. in the Resurrection Rehabilitation Center of Chicago, first floor, Professional Building, Entrance C. (773) 594-7866.
Advocate Lutheran General Hospital is forming a support network for women living with breast cancer. the Breast Cancer Networking Group meets from 2-3 p.m. on 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, facilitated by Ashley Harlow, an American Cancer Society Patient Navigator, will be held 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.
to meet the increasing needs of older adults who want to remain independent in their homes, 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.-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.
The 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.
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., Chicago. Volunteers are needed on a regular basis from 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.
The Men’s and Women’s Association of 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 $35. (847) 723-6105.
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 www.rainbowhospice.org.
The Food Pantry of new Hope United Methodist Church, 7115 W. Hood Ave., is in need of volunteers to assist at 9:15 a.m. each Monday to unload deliveries and from 9 a.m.-noon Tuesdays to assist clients coming in. Contact Bill Murphy, bill@newhopechicago.org.
The Seniors Assistance Center needs volunteers for home delivered meals which are delivered Mondays through Fridays. anyone with two free hours a week can help homebound neighbors by delivering a hot meal at noontime. If interested, call Arleen at the Seniors Assistance Center, (708) 456-7979. a small stipend will be given for mileage.
The American Cancer Society is 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 is 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.