Banned Books Week highlighted at Eisenhower
Staff members at Eisenhower High School in Blue Island supported Banned Books Week last week. By focusing on efforts to remove or restrict access to books, Banned Books Week draws national attention to the harms of censorship, according to a release from the school.
For nearly two decades, Eisenhower has decorated its library with books banned in various parts of the country. Staff members also wear themed shirts. This year’s theme was “Free People Read Freely.” The shirts were created by the American Library Association, which established Banned Books Week in 1982 in response to a sudden surge in challenges to books in libraries, bookstores and schools.
Bremen High School names Hall of Fame honorees
The Hall of Fame Class of 2024 at Bremen High School in Midlothian included two new inductees: Dominic D’Ambrosio, class of 1992, and Sue Vaughan Nelson, class of 1962.
D’Ambrosio has held multiple roles with the Oak Forest Police Department for more than 20 years, and currently is deputy chief of police. He is a coach and volunteer to youth sports programs and veteran support organizations, and he served in the Marine Corps earning the rank of platoon sergeant. After his military career, the father of two earned a bachelor’s degree followed by an MBA in public administration.
Nelson, who has a degree in elementary education from Millikin University, had a long career teaching students of all ages and abilities. The mother of three is a dedicated alum, actively involved in alumni associations, reunion committees and scholarship efforts at Bremen and Millikin. Nelson earned the Loyalty Award from Millikin in 2023.
Matteson mayor takes statewide post
Matteson Village President Sheila Chalmers-Currin was chosen to serve a one-year term as first vice president of the Illinois Municipal League.
New officers were chosen at the annual business meeting last month in Chicago. She has been on the league’s board of directors since 2021.
“It is a privilege to be elected as the Illinois Municipal League’s first vice president and I look forward to continued partnership with my colleagues to advance policies that uplift and empower communities across Illinois,” she said in a news release.
Bunco night in Lockport boosts My Joyful Heart
My Joyful Heart hosts a fall bunco fundraiser Oct. 18 at American Legion Post 18, 15052 S. Archer Ave., Lockport. The children’s charity provides life essentials such as clothing, food and hygiene products and letters of encouragement to kids in need in the Chicago area five times throughout the year.
A light dinner starts at 6 p.m. with bunco following at 7 p.m. A cash bar, bunco prizes and raffle baskets are part of the fun. Bring a box of Little Debbie or Hostess snacks to be given to children on their birthday to be entered into a special drawing. Tickets cost $30 and are available at myjoyfulheart.org.
Women’s Wellness Walk set in Oak Forest
Bremen Township hosts its inaugural Women’s Wellness Walk from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Oct. 19 at the Maggie Crotty Walking Path, 15350 Oak Park Ave., Oak Forest.
The township has partnered with the Crisis Center for South Suburbia, which provides assistance to victims of domestic violence and their families, with all walk pledges going to the center.
Local businesses and vendors are sought to donate items, gift cards or services for gifts and prizes. Contributors will be recognized in the program and on the event banner. Drop items at the office or call 708-687-8220 for a pickup.
Pours for Parks planned in Frankfort
The eighth annual Pours for Parks fundraiser benefits park facilities in Frankfort while allowing participants to sample craft beer, wine, margaritas and spirits. The event is 4 to 7 p.m. Oct. 19 at Founders Community Center, 140 Oak St.
Gina Hassett, executive director of the Frankfort Park District, said the event has raised more than $65,000 over the years that has been invested into its parks.
Tickets are $40 at www.opfrankfort.org or at the community center, and include 10 tastings from more than 15 local and regional breweries as well as a souvenir glass while supplies last. Tickets at the door cost $20 but do not include tasting tickets or the glass.
Attendees must be at least 21 years old. A DJ will play, and Cultivate Community Table of Frankfort will sell food.
Dash for Den in Palos Park supports sobriety program
The Dash for Den 5K Walk/Run steps off at 8:30 a.m. Oct. 20 at The Children’s Farm at The Center, 12700 Southwest Highway, Palos Park.
The event raises money to support the center’s Pathway to Sobriety Program, which helps men struggling with addiction to alcohol and drugs and their families. Instead of an entry fee, participants are encouraged to raise pledges. Last year more than $20,000 was raised.
Dash for Den honors Dennis Raber, who was 29 when he lost his life to drug addiction in 2018. Information is available at 708-259-1445 or 708-717-3368 or by emailing maureenespo@comcast.net or mark@ramarsupply.com.
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