Briefs: AARP forum in Grayslake
AARP will host a town hall forum on health care and economic security issues today, 10 a.m. to noon, in the auditorium of the University of Illinois Extension, 100 S. Route 45, Grayslake. The forum is part of AARP's "Divided We Fail" initiative, a nationwide movement seeking effective government action on health and financial security issues. The event is open to all area residents.
Tax help for seniors
The Wauconda Township assessor's office will help seniors in completing their 2008 Senior Citizen's Assessment Freeze Form today from 8:30 a.m. to noon at the township community hall, 505 W. Bonner Road, Wauconda. The exemption allows a qualified senior citizen to have their equalized assessed value frozen at a base year value to prevent or limit any increase in value due to inflation. Freezing the assessed value does not guarantee property taxes won't increase if the tax rate increases, or if the property has an addition or improvement. To qualify for this exemption, a senior must be 65 or older during the tax year, own the property as their principal residence for the last two years from Jan. 1, and have a 2007 total household income below $55,000. The deadline to file the form is July 31. Seniors should bring copies of their 2007 federal income tax form along with any 2007 income statements from Social Security, interest, and pensions. For an appointment, call (847) 526-2631.
Scholarships announced
Eight students in the 59th House District have been awarded the 2008 General Assembly Legislative College Scholarships from state Rep. Kathy Ryg of Vernon Hills. The scholarships provide full tuition for one year to any state university. Recipients were chosen based on scholastic achievement, extra-curricular involvement, financial need, and educational goals. Recipients were: Van Ceu of Northbrook, Steven Choi and Brian Chrysler of Vernon Hills; Kirsten Clemens of Lake Bluff; Mark DeKopf and Mark Price of Buffalo Grove and Aaron Parker of Northbrook to attend the University of Illinois and Justin Padaoan of Vernon Hills to attend Illinois State University.
A celebration of seniors
The Lake County Forest Preserve District's 36th annual Seniors Day celebration is Wednesday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Independence Grove Forest Preserve on Route 137 just east of Libertyville. The event for those 55 and older attracts as many as 5,000 participants for a variety of activities including music and dancing, exhibits, health screenings, bingo, pontoon boat rides, horseshoes, native garden tours and hiking and biking. Snacks and beverages are provided. This year, Lake Forest Hospital is listed as a presenting sponsor in recognition of a $10,000 donation, the largest received for the event.