Briefs: Ninth rabid bat

A ninth bat has tested positive for rabies, according to the Lake County Health Department. The bat was observed flying around the kitchen area of an Antioch home Sept. 23. The homeowners trapped it between a screen and a window and called authorities. The bat may have come in through the chimney. No human contact occurred. Bats are most active in late summer, according to the health department. Most commonly, people get rabies from the bite of a rabid animal. Any wild mammal, such as a raccoon, skunk, fox , coyote or bat, can transmit rabies to humans. Anyone who has direct contact with a bat or notices a bat acting in an unusual manner, such as flying in daylight, should call (8 47) 949-9925.

Edens bottlenecks

Motorists are reminded the first phase of rehabilitation, resurfacing and drainage improvements on the Edens Expressway/I-94 is under way. Major lane reductions in both directions of the 14-mile expressway will occur this fall and next spring and summer as part of a $43 million project. The right lane and shoulder were permanently closed Friday night from Lawrence Avenue to Lake-Cook Road until Nov. 4, weather permitting. Motorists should expect to have the center lane closed on weekend days to allow concrete patches to cure. There also will be occasional overnight closures of two lanes.

Conservation work day

Thousands of volunteers are expected to help restore natural areas across the country on National Public Lands Day today. Locally, volunteers are invited to join Barrington-based Citizens For Conservation in collecting seeds of native plants that will be planted in local natural area restorations. First-time and veteran volunteers of all ages are invited to meet at CFC headquarters, 459 W. Route 22, a white farmhouse with a silo across from Advocate Good Shepherd Hospital. Volunteers are asked to wear long pants and sturdy shoes and bring work gloves if possible. The workday is from 9 to 11 a.m. today. For details, call (847) 382-7283.

Census volunteers sought

The village of Kildeer and the U.S. Census Bureau will conduct a special census this fall. Officials are seeking individuals interested in helping gather the census data over roughly 25 days. The work will be full time for a minimum of 20 hours per week, on evenings and/or weekends. It pays $11 to $16 an hour, depending on the assignment, and includes three days of training. Applicants must be 18 or older and have a valid driver's license and a vehicle available for their use. Those interested should call the village at (847) 438-6000.