Tri-Cities briefs

USO-style night

Get "In the Mood" to dance the night away at the American Legion Hall, 22 S. Second St., Geneva, at 7 p.m. Saturday with a 1940s-style USO party. It marks the closing of the Geneva History Center's "Faces of War" exhibit on Nov. 13. Tickets are $15 for center members and $20 for others; $5 discount for those in military uniform. There will be a cash bar. Call (630) 232-4951 for reservations.

Collins to speak Sunday

The head of the Illinois Commission on Political Reform will be the keynote speaker at a 3 p.m. assembly Sunday at Glen Ellyn's Faith Lutheran Church, sponsored by DuPage United. Organizers said Patrick Collins will speak about political corruption and the future of reform in the state. Collins led a group that issued a report earlier this year recommending a series of changes to campaign financing and handling political appointments to curb corruption. Other topics also will be discussed. The church is at 41 N. Park Blvd. DuPage United is an advocacy group of area religious leaders and the heads of several social service agencies.

'Fall into Christmas'

Debra Phillips, owner of Scentimental Gardens in Geneva, is opening her 1850s cottage home in Wayne for an exclusive tour from 1 to 5 p.m. Wednesday. Attendees should meet at the shop, 428 W. State St., and transportation will be provided to and from her home, beginning at 1 p.m. Several trips will be made. Her home will be decorated in the "splendor of the autumn" season, filled with ideas inside and out. Guests will be transported back to the shop, which will be adorned with Christmas decor. Refreshments and a special store discount will be provided for all attendees. Fee is $12. To reserve a spot, contact Sarah at (630) 232-1303 or sarah@scentimentalgardens.com.