Lake County briefs

New Grayslake parks chiefRound Lake Area Park District Executive Director Jeff Nehila has taken a similar job in neighboring Grayslake. Nehila will replace Grayslake parks Executive Director Bob Lashbrook, who recently retired. Nehila has been the Round Lake area's parks boss for the past eight years. He's credited with leading the development of more than 20 new parks and the Robert Rolek Community Center. "I'm honored to be selected as the director of the Grayslake Community Park District," Nehila said. "I'm excited to start getting to know the residents, staff and board better and hope to continue the district's successful history of serving a great community." Nehila has been in the parks and recreation industry for more than 23 years. Grayslake park board President Ken Ryan said Nehila brings leadership and expertise to the district.Fort Sheridan trail opensA new 2-mile interim mowed grass trail opens today, Monday, July 12, at the Fort Sheridan Forest Preserve. The new trail loop offers hikers the a variety of scenic views including bluffs overlooking Lake Michigan, wooded ravines, prairies and wetlands. The winding path also offers a mix of wildflowers and opportunities to observe a variety of birds and wildlife. The east portion of the trail runs along bluffs overlooking Lake Michigan and between the preserves' Janes and Hutchinson Ravines. The trail also crosses the existing steel bridge over the Janes Ravine and continues west past the Fort Sheridan Cemetery. Opening of the trail coincides with completion of a second Fort Sheridan restoration phase, which included removing old roads and buildings, and sculpting 55 acres that was once an airfield for the former military base. Visit www.lcfpd.org for more information.Sente holds town meetingState Rep. Carol Sente will host a town-hall meeting from 6:30-8:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 13 at the Laschen Community Center, 294 Evergreen Drive in Vernon Hills. Topics include the economy and participants are invited to offer ideas on creating jobs, saving tax dollars and creating a more accountable government. (847) 680-5909.