Elmwood Park student does well in Chicago Citywide Spelling Bee

ELMWOOD PARK — A John Mills Elementary School student’s hard work put him in the top 10 of a major spelling bee. Benjamin Kulis, 11, represented Elmwood Park School District 401 on March 21 at the final Chicago Citywide Spelling Bee at Lindblom Math and Science Academy in Chicago.

Families need to find reputable caregivers, protect patient from fraud

Recent headlines included the news of a caregiver accused of stealing $255,000 from the Lincolnshire man that she was supposed to be looking after. The Detectives involved in this case say that events like this one occur more frequently than anyone would like to see.

Springtime brings thoughts of moving for seniors

Springtime brings flowers, outdoor activities and often the start of the moving discussion in families living with seniors. The cold winter months may have led to isolation, a possible illness or many other possibilities; whatever the reason, many senior living communities see an increase in tours and moving discussions as the weather improves.

Public-private partnership creates senior activities

Public-Private partnerships are not new. Communities and the businesses that support them often work together to provide opportunities for their residents. In Highwood, the mayor and his wife are teaming up with a local skilled nursing facility to help create a central location where seniors can connect and engage.

Conference helps seniors have better quality of life

As we age experts say it is important to focus on the quality of life. A local conference is focusing on “Aging Well.” For 15 years, a group of community organizations have come together, with the City of Evanston, to present strategies for healthy aging …

Elmwood Park vet visits Washington on ‘Honor Flight’

ELMWOOD PARK — Last week, the Saturday-morning crowd at the North Avenue Panera Bread seemed typical. Some customers rushed in and out; others with more time ate breakfast alone or in pairs at small tables.

Community Briefs

EP Women’s Club Scholarship Luncheon May 16 The Elmwood Park Women’s Club will hold its annual Scholarship Luncheon beginning with a social hour at 11 a.m. Thursday, May 16, at Elmcrest Banquets, 7370 W. Grand Ave., in Elmwood Park, followed by and lunch at noon. Barbara …

River Grove clerk has seen a lot in 14 years on job

RIVER GROVE — When it comes to lottery tickets, fountain drinks, snacks and more Kim Davis has a handle on it. She’s the face most people usually see during the day behind the counter at JJ Peppers Food Store, 8358 Grand Ave. She has worked at the convenience store as a clerk/cashier for 14 years.

Early-voting judge likes working in Elmwood Park

ELMWOOD PARK — If you’ve ever showed up to cast your ballot early in Elmwood Park, chances are, you’ve met Pete DeBoer.

Free clinic shows how to cut utility costs April 16

Elmwood Park The Citizens Utility Board will analyze electric, natural gas and phone bills at a free clinic at 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 16, at the Elmwood Park Public Library, 1 Conti Parkway, to show Elmwood Park residents how to save hundreds of dollars a …

River Grove resident is new U of I student trustee

RIVER GROVE — Michael Cunningham of River Grove just won a major election at the University of Illinois — and to hear him talk, it won’t be the last time he runs for something.

French desserts at library; 5K Run/Walk to benefit charity

French desserts demo April 17

Pastry Chef Michael Maddox demonstrates and teaches how to create and make three French desserts at 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 17, in the Ferrentino Room at the Elmwood Park Public Library, 1 Conti Parkway.

Samples of the French desserts will …

Hospitalists help focus care, coordinate communication

When a patient is admitted to the hospital today odds are great that their own primary care physician will not oversee their treatment, instead that person will meet a specialist known as a hospitalist. For some seniors, the idea of a hospitalist can be upsetting.

Volunteer has helped children’s hospital fundraiser grow

RIVER FOREST — Georgette Carlini has a friendly, unassuming look as she works behind the service and reception desk at the River Forest village hall.

Speaking effectively to patients with Alzheimer’s

Communication can be the biggest challenge when living or working with someone with Alzheimer’s Disease or other dementias. Having a conversation can be frustrating both to the individual with dementia and the caregiver.