Briefs: Des Plaines to negotiate fee

The Des Plaines City Council has directed City Manager Jason Bajor to attempt to negotiate a reduction in what the city pays its Springfield lobbyist to $60,000 from $75,000. In looking to cut the budget, the city found it was paying more than many surrounding communities. "We're paying more than any other community here," said 4th Ward Alderman Jean Higgason, referring to a staff survey. There was talk of seeking a bigger fee reduction. But Mayor Tony Arredia said that with the city in the midst of several measures that require state support, including seeking assistance for multimillion-dollar flood control projects, he would hate to see the city lose its lobbyist over a few thousand dollars.

Slaughter hosts dance tryouts:

The Chicago Slaughter indoor professional football team, which plays at Sears Centre in Hoffman Estates, will hold first-round tryouts for its dance team on Sunday, Nov. 23. Women who are 18 and over and have a background in and passion for dance are invited to audition. Those interested are asked to preregister by e-mailing their name, contact information and dance training to dance team director Wynne Lacey at wynne@wynningteams.com. Walk-ups will be taken as space permits. Tryouts will take place at Prairie Stone Health and Wellness Center, 5050 Sledge Blvd., with check-in at 8:30 a.m. There is no fee to try out, and those who do should wear dance shoes and proper attire. For further information, call (847) 310-3190 or e-mail chicagoslaughter@gmail.com. Season tickets for 2009 and sponsorships are also now available.