The briefs: Accident in Bensenville
A Bensenville Fire Protection District fire truck, which was responding to an emergency, crashed into an SUV around 11:40 a.m. Friday at York Road and Jefferson Street, authorities said. The fire truck, which had its emergency lights flashing, had been heading north on York. The SUV was heading west on Jefferson and failed to yield to the truck at the intersection, authorities said. The driver of the SUV, Anastacio Ortiz, 41, 456 S. Addison St., Bensenville, received a ticket for failing to yield to an emergency vehicle, authorities said. No one was injured.
Free chance to try scuba
B.R. Ryall YMCA is offering a free opportunity to try scuba diving from 7 to 9:30 p.m. Friday. The program, sponsored by the Scubaneers Dive Club, includes a short diving information presentation followed by a chance to try scuba in the pool. Participants should be 12 or older. Those younger than 18 need permission from a parent or guardian. Bring a bathing suit and a towel. The YMCA is at 49 Deicke Drive in Glen Ellyn. Call (630) 858-0100 or the Scubaneers Hotline at 630-719-1606 for details.
Citizens academy
Aurora police are accepting applications for the spring session of the Citizens Police Academy, which will run for 10 consecutive Thursdays starting Feb. 21. The free academy lets residents learn about the department, exploring topics including criminal law, gang and drug awareness, investigations and more. Classes are from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. at the department's Area Two facility, 157 N. Root St. The first class will be held at police headquarters, 350 N. River St. Pre-registration is required and applicants must be at least 21 years old and submit to a background check. Applications are available at the police departments and city hall.
Christmas tree pickup
Aurora residents can place live Christmas trees by the curb to be recycled on their normal garbage collection day from Jan. 7-11, city officials say. Trees must be free of all decorations and lights. All stands, plastic or bagging materials also must be removed. Wreaths, garland and other decorations that contain wire must be stickered as garbage.
Reading program starts
The Naperville Public Library's Winter Reading Program, the IditaREAD, begins Jan. 7 and ends Feb. 17. The annual campaign is for children from birth through fifth grade. Each child will receive a reading record from the Chicago Wolves team's Read to Succeed Program. All participants can win family packs of tickets to a Wolves game or other prizes. For information, visit www.naperville-lib.org.