The briefs

Poetry contest open to Lombard kids

Fourth- and fifth-grade students who live in Lombard may enter the Lombard Service League's annual Children's Poetry Contest, "A Precious Moment," until Jan. 19.

All poems must be the student's original work, include a title, be eight to 30 lines long and be typed. Entries also must include the child's name, address, home telephone number, age, school, grade and teacher's name.

Entries should be mailed to: Lombard Service League, P.O. Box 482, Lombard, IL 60148. The winner will be announced during the club's meeting at 7 p.m. March 13 at Lexington Square of Lombard, 555 Foxworth Blvd.

The winner and runner-up each will receive a $50 savings bond. The first-place poem will be submitted to a statewide writing contest.

For details, call JoAnn Scheiwiller at (630) 620-0482.

Local chefs join forces for charity

DuPage PADS will host "Taste of Hope: Chefs Uniting to End Homelessness" from 6 to 9:30 p.m. Feb. 28 at Abbington Distinctive Banquets, 3S002 Route 53, Glen Ellyn.

Chefs from several local restaurants will prepare signature dishes for guests to sample.

Tickets cost $75. Proceeds will benefit DuPage Public Action to Deliver Shelter, a not-for-profit organization that provides shelter and assistance to the homeless.

For details, call Kathleen Johnson at (630) 682-3846, ext. 222, or visit www.dupagepads.org.

Register now for police program

The Lombard Police Department's 10-week Citizen's Police Academy starts March 4 at the department, 235 E. Wilson Ave.

Topics covered in the hands-on program include traffic stops, firearms, search and seizure laws, defensive tactics and more.

Registration is required. Applications are available at the police department, the village hall and the village Web site, www.villageoflombard.org. For details, call Barb Bartolotte at (630) 873-4471.

Park district offers line-dancing class

Villa Park Recreation will offer country line-dancing classes the second and fourth Fridays of every month at the Community Recreation Building, 320 E. Wildwood Ave., Villa Park.

Beginning class starts at 6 p.m. and class for more experienced dancers will be from 7 to 9:30 p.m. Singles, couples and groups all are welcome. Partners are not necessary.

The weekly fee is $5 for residents and $6 for others, payable at the door. For details, call (630) 834-8970, e-mail jenny@vprd.org or visit www.vprd.org.

Orchestra seeks student musicians

The West Suburban Youth Orchestra is seeking talented junior high and high school students for the 2008 season. Openings are available in all sections, but percussionists especially are needed. For details or an audition appointment, visit www.wyso.org.