Tri-Cities briefs
Geneva coat drive
The Geneva High School Student Council and Key Club are collecting coats, hats, scarves, gloves and mittens for a giveaway from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday at the school, 416 McKinley Ave. Donation boxes are set up at all Geneva public schools. Any coats left over will be donated to area charities or sent to a textile recycler.
Legislative forums:
On Monday, Dec. 7, seniors, caregivers and their advocates will discuss federal and state issues concerning aging at two legislative forums: 8:30 a.m. at Pottawatomie Community Center, 8 North Ave., St. Charles; and 1:30 p.m. at Senior Services Associates, 110 W. Woodstock, Crystal Lake. Registration starts 30 minutes earlier. The agenda will include: a review of state legislative accomplishments in 2009; elder rights and long-term care ombudsman programs and other funding issues; updates on health care, Medicare and prescription drug programs; and status of information and assistance services. Reservations are requested; call the Northeastern Illinois Area Agency on Aging at (630) 293-5990.
Polar Express at Blackberry:
You can jump aboard the Polar Express train during the first two weekends of December at Aurora's Blackberry Farm, 100 S. Barnes Road. The decorated train will run continuously around Lake Gregory from 4 to 7 p.m. today and Saturday and Dec. 12 and 13. Holiday music will play during the event, "The Polar Express" will be read at the schoolhouse, and Santa will meet youngsters at the Early Streets Museum. Admission to the Polar Express is $3 for Aurora residents and $5 for others. For details, call (630) 892-1550.
Tour Aurora police station:
Residents may take tours of Aurora's new police headquarters and branch court from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. today and from 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday at 1200 E. Indian Trail. Parking is available in front of the building off Indian Trail, and behind the building off Reckinger Road. The public should enter the branch court entrance on the west end of the building. For details, call (630) 264-4636.
Batavia's farmers market:
The Wilson Street Market will be open from 8 a.m. to noon Sunday at 229 E. Wilson St., Batavia. This farmers market will feature local farmers and vendors every Sunday throughout the year except holidays. A portion of the proceeds will be donated to a local charity. Call Craig Foltos at (630) 879-5253 with any questions or if you would like to reserve a space in the new market.
Christmas musical:
The children's choirs of the United Methodist Church of Geneva, 211 Hamilton St., will present the Christmas musical "Radio J-O-Y" at the 9 and 10:45 a.m. worship services Sunday. Admission is free. Visit genevaumc.org or call (630) 232-7120.