Briefs: Ashlee Simpson here today
Singer Ashlee Simpson will appear at the Rolling Meadows Wal-Mart at 4 p.m. today, signing copies of her latest single, "Outta My Head." Fans can begin lining up inside the store, 1460 Golf Road, at 2 p.m., said store spokesman Keith Kogut. Simpson is expected to sign records until about 5 p.m. Fans will be allowed to take pictures of Simpson but cannot pose for pictures with her. Kogut said a similar event in Dallas brought out 350 to 400 fans, and he said the store will try to keep the fan waiting line warm inside the store "as best we can."
Protest in Elk Grove Village
Anywhere between a dozen and 50 people representing Moms Against Mercury protested in extreme cold Wednesday morning outside the American Academy of Pediatrics headquarters in Elk Grove Village over the association's stance on vaccine use. The group says that a form of mercury in some vaccines is injuring children; the academy says vaccines are safe and that scaring people from using them risks children's lives. The North Carolina-based group said up to 50 people from several states were present; an academy spokeswoman estimated attendance at a little more than a dozen. Both sides agreed an accurate count was difficult as people took shelter from the cold in their cars.
Kirk meeting public today
Congressman Mark Kirk will hold a town hall meeting at 7 p.m. today at the Palatine Township Center, 721 S. Quentin Road, in Palatine. Topics include Kirk's bills about providing Americans high-tech, secure Social Security cards to reduce identity theft, re-starting the Home Owners Loan Corp. to keep families from losing their homes, and implementing a moratorium on earmarks that waste taxpayer dollars. Other issues people want to discuss will also be addressed. A Highland Park Republican, Kirk is running for re-election in the 10th Congressional District against Democrat Dan Seals of Wilmette.
Library trustee resigns
James J. Bertucci is resigning from the Arlington Heights library board, effective March 1. A nine-year trustee and past president, Bertucci said he is stepping down to focus on his family and business responsibilities. The library board will appoint a new trustee to complete Bertucci's term, which expires in April 2009. Residents interested in the appointment should write to board President G. Victor Johnson, at the Arlington Heights Memorial Library, 500 N. Dunton Ave. The deadline is March 24. Call (847) 506-2649 with questions.