The briefs

Bartlett Citizenship Expo

Bartlett Character Counts Coalition will sponsor a Bartlett Citizenship Expo from 1:30-3 p.m. July 29, at Victory Centre of Bartlett, 1101 W. Bartlett Road in the lower level community room. Representatives from the 55th District, township, village, fire, police, library, park district, woman's club and Lions Club will be on hand. Refreshments provided. Come and learn how to be a great citizen of Bartlett.

Palatine Tiger Shark Swim Team

The Palatine Tiger Shark Swim Team will hold tryouts for the 2008-09 short course season at 9 a.m. July 29 and 30 at Birchwood Pool, 435 W. Illinois Ave., Palatine. To schedule a tryout, call (847) 202-3240.

Thumb newly green? Let us know!

Did you go from planting a few tomato plants to planting enough veggies to open a salad bar, all in the name of stretching the family's budget?

If so, we want to hear from you. Tell us in 100 words or less what you've done this year to combat the recession with your green thumb. We may use your response in a future story, or call you for an interview.

Include digital images if you like, along with your name, town and phone number. Send your e-mail to feedback@dailyherald.com, by Monday if possible.

Up and At'em Animal Chores

Put the kids to work Sunday morning July 27 at Spring Valley's Up and At'em Animal Chores. From 7:30-9 a.m., children will have the chance to milk cows, feed livestock and perform other animal chores. Afterward, reward the hard work with a light breakfast around the farmhouse stove. Cost is $10, children age 3 and under are free. Spring Valley Nature Center and Heritage Farm are located at 1111 E. Schaumburg Road, Schaumburg. (847) 985-2100.

Battle of the District 15 Bands

The District 15 Educational Foundation is hosting a Battle of the District 15 Bands event. Bands are being sought to compete from 6-10 p.m. Nov. 8 at Durty Nellie's in Palatine. Band members must be 21 or older, a parent of a District 15 student or alumni of a District 15 school. Prizes will be awarded to the top two bands. There are a limited number of slots available, and any type of music is welcome. To sign up for this plug and play event, call (847) 963-3160.