Lake County briefs

Cops helping disadvantaged children:

Round Lake Park police in cooperation with Walmart are heading the 14th consecutive "Shop With a Cop" program Monday, Dec. 14, to benefit disadvantaged local children. Officials said the about 100 children will be brought on the Christmas shopping trip for toys, books and clothing. It's hoped each child will receive about $100 in presents. Round Lake Park police have been soliciting donations from employees and local businesses. Others may help as well. Donations for the effort may be sent to Round Lake Park Police Department Charitable Fund, 215 E. Main St., Round Lake Park, IL 60073. Round Lake Park Police Chief George Filenko said the program provides the only source of holiday joy for some children. Other area police departments, Lake County Crime Stoppers and the Lake County Sheriff's Office assist in the event.

Input sought on Waukegan Savanna:

An open house to review and discuss the plans for recreation and habitat restoration at the Waukegan Savanna Forest Preserve will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 17, at Waukegan Fire Station #5, 3221 N. Green Bay Road. The plan alternatives show how natural resource, recreation and restoration activities could be integrated into the site. Proposed improvements include trails, a dog exercise area, a rustic nature exploration area, an informal picnic area and organic farming. Comments will be reviewed by the Forest Preserve Board of Commissioners and taken into consideration for the site's planning. An online survey also is available through Nov. 29 at LCFPD.org/WASA. Contact Susan Hall at shall@LCFPD.org or (847) 968-3270. Waukegan Savanna is located in the northeast portion of Lake County near Wadsworth, Waukegan and Beach Park.

Libertyville concert a hit:

The first concert held at the Libertyville Sports Complex is being considered a success by village officials. The free event last Saturday featuring country star Dierks Bentley and pop/rock singer Michelle Branch drew about 3,800. No problems or arrests were reported. The concert was a partnership between the village; Mark Khayat, owner of Austin's Saloon & Eatery; country radio station US-99; and Budweiser. The concert was an experiment by the village to showcase the embattled sports complex at Peterson Road and Route 45 as a venue for concerts and other events. Preliminary information showed the village made about $8,000. "I don't think it could have gone any better than it did," said Mayor Terry Weppler.