Lake County briefs

Mardi Gras action at Woodland

Some Woodland Elementary District 50 students will get to have some Mardi Gras fun today. Students in fourth-grade classes at Woodland Intermediate School in Gurnee will participate in celebrations, starting with a parade. The students worked in pairs to create a float representing one of the 12 Southeastern states for the parade. Part of the action will have the children holding masks they created for display as they walk through the intermediate building's halls. Capping off the Mardi Gras celebration, the pupils will enjoy King Cakes and other traditional dishes from the Southeast in the school's multipurpose room. Students in the classes of teachers Kerry Rejczyk, Claire Carbonneau, Rebecca McCleery and Robin Heiser will participate in the special event that'll cover almost two hours.

Local Italian restaurant plans expansion

Lake Zurich pizza mainstay DiPieros, 17 E. Main St., plans to expand its current location. Concept plans for the expansion are being finalized. Village President John Tolomei said owner Bob Narcisi intends to move forward quickly with the expansion project. DiPieros is also looking to rent space on the corner of Main Street and Old Rand Road: the vacant Main Dog and Century Press properties. This new space would be used for a takeout and counter-food restaurant.

Antioch Lions donate $6,000 to Open Arms Mission:

The Antioch Lions Club has committed to donating $6,000 to the Open Arms Mission during 2009. The club will support the food pantry with a $500 monthly check said club member Kris Shepard. "Their generosity could not come at a better time as our economy worsens and more local families need help," said Open Arms Executive Director Marytherese Ambacher. With 120 members, the Antioch Lions Club is one of the largest clubs in the state, Shepard said. They raise more than $30,000 a year for local organizations.