The briefs

ECC to offer self-defense class

Elgin Community College begins its observance of Sexual Abuse Awareness Month with a self-defense workshop from 5 to 6 p.m. Wednesday in the Student Resource Center Alumni Room on the main campus, 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin.

Conducted by Kelly Dahl, a sixth-degree black belt in Isshinryu Karate, the free interactive workshop will focus on personal safety through awareness, prevention, risk reduction, avoidance and basic self-defense techniques.

For details, call (847) 214-7370.

Kids can try NEOS at the park district

Stop by the Bartlett Park District's Community Center, 700 S. Bartlett Road, to play the new interactive playground game NEOS, combining quick reflexes with agility and visual acuity. The game is suitable for all ages and free to play.

The NEOS gaming system is on tour from the playground manufacturer and will leave the center around Friday.

For details, call (630) 540-4800 or visit bartlettparks.org.

Spring Wood PTO is selling candles

The PTO of Spring Wood Middle School in Hanover Park hosts a candle sale fundraiser through April 10. Proceeds go toward school materials and field trips for needy students.

Schoolchildren and the PTO are selling Gold Canyon candles that come in glass jars with lids. There are various scents and three sizes, with prices ranging from $14.50 to $22.

For details or to purchase candles, e-mail springwoodpto@comcast.net or call Kathy Hayward at (630) 351-0170.

Parents can attend course on teens

"Parenting Teenagers," a six-week class and discussion group for parents of teenagers and pre-teens, will be offered from 7 to 9 p.m. Thursdays, April 10 to May 15, by Spectrum Youth and Family Services at Schaumburg Township Hall, One Illinois Blvd., Hoffman Estates.

The class will be led by licensed social worker Doreen Rohr, Spectrum's associate director for clinical services.

The group is open to parents who reside in Schaumburg Township and have children ages 10 to 18.

Admission is $25 per parent or couple. In two-parent households, both parents are encouraged to enroll, though individual and single parents are welcome.

Registration is necessary, as space is limited. For details, call (847) 884-6212.