DuPage County in 60 seconds
Run for the Stars slated
An estimated 500 walkers and runners are expected to participate in a 5K race and fitness walk Saturday through residential areas near downtown Wheaton. The Run for the Stars starts at 8:02 a.m. from the corner of Seminary and Washington and is sponsored by the STARS Disability Ministry, a part of College Church in Wheaton that helps families who are affected by a person with a developmental disability. Proceeds will allow people with disabilities to attend camps. Participants can register in advance at www.runforthestars.com or simply show up on race day. The race also is open to people in wheelchairs.
Itasca blood drive
The Village of Itasca Safe Community Coalition will host a Heartland Blood Centers drive from 3 to 7 p.m. today at the municipal complex, 550 W. Irving Park Road. Donors will receive a gift card for a free quart of Oberweis Ice Cream, a free Heartland BBQ set and apron and a redeemable coupon that can be used at Itasca retailers for every adult participant 21 and older. Additionally, all donors 21 and older will be entered into a raffle to win an afternoon at the Arlington Park Party Deck for four adults. Eligible donors should weigh at least 110 pounds, be 17 or older, in good health and present a photo ID. For details, visit heartlandbc.org or call (800) 786-4483.
Benefit for tumor research
The third annual Reid's Ride for Research will be at 8 a.m. Saturday in downtown Glen Ellyn. The event will feature a 5K Family Fun Bike Ride and Fun Run and will benefit brain tumor research at Children's Memorial Hospital. State Rep. Sandy Pihos, Congressman Peter Roskam, Village President Mark Pfefferman, ex-Cubs pitcher David Otto and members of the Glenbard West football team will be on hand to officiate. Entertainment, games, food and a raffle in the Main Street parking lot will follow the run and ride. The day will also include a DJ, basketball free-throw contest, baseball speed pitch, penny carnival games, money man machine, train, face painting and balloon artist. To register online, visit events.org/reidsride. Forms also are available at The Bike Shop, 495 Main St., Glen Ellyn. The event will take place on Main Street, just south of the railroad tracks in downtown Glen Ellyn, between Hillside and Duane.