Palos police laud MVCC student
Community Service Officer Niko Dorre of the Palos Park Police Department has been recognized for his achievements as a student studying criminal justice at Moraine Valley Community College in Palos Hills. His family joined him at the Public Service Awards Ceremony last month when he received the Public Service Award of Recognition for Criminology for the spring 2025 semester. The award recognizes Dorre’s personal growth, academic excellence and deep commitment to public service.
“This prestigious recognition highlights Niko’s leadership and unwavering dedication to public service,” Chief Joe Miller shared in a news release. “His exemplary commitment to education and service reflects on his focus on high standards. Niko emboldens the values of public service and we are honored to work with him and congratulate him on this well-deserved honor.”
Benefit aids stray dogs found in Blue Island
Stray dogs get a boost this weekend, thanks to the Blue Island Stray Dog Project’s third annual fundraiser, Ruff Around Blue Island, from 6 to 10 p.m. Sept. 13 at Rock Island Public House, 13328 Olde Western Ave. in Blue Island.
Raffles for baskets and split the pot, drain the keg and door prizes will be featured. Project merchandise such as T-shirts, hoodies and hats will be sold. Professional dog trainer Dan Bartley, aka Southside’s Doggy Dan, who works with the nonprofit organization, will be on hand to discuss dog behavior, and volunteers will discuss the organization’s mission, volunteer opportunities and operations.
Donations will help the organization, which was founded in 2018, “provide a safe haven and compassionate care for stray dogs that are found roaming the streets of Blue Island. This involves housing the dogs in kennels and caring for them at the Blue Island Police Department Headquarters,” according to a news release. Bedding, food, treats, leashes, toys, veterinary care, medication and grooming needs are some of the expenses. Information is at blueislandstrays.org.
Andrew High to host Marching Band Invitational
More than 18 bands will perform Sept. 13 as part of the Victor J. Andrew 10th annual Marching Band Invitational in the football stadium at the school, 9001 W. 171st St., Tinley Park.
The national anthem will be played at 12:55 p.m., followed by bands performing their competitive shows throughout the afternoon and evening until the Andrew band plays in exhibition at 7:30 p.m. Awards will be presented.
Tickets cost $15 for adults, $10 for students 7 to 13 years old and seniors 65 and older, and free to music and color guard students in its feeder schools: Prairie View, Grissom and Central Middle School, although school ID will be required. Tickets sold online at www.facebook.com/VJAInvitational?ref=embed_page.
Open house set for Renaissance classes at St. Xavier
Adults older than 55 can learn more about enrichment courses available through the Renaissance Academy at St. Xavier University during an open house set for 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. Sept. 16 in the university’s Butler Room in the Warde Academic Center, 3700 W. 103rd St. in Chicago.
An overview of the fall courses starts at 3 p.m. The six-week courses, offered in the fall, winter and spring, take place Tuesday and Thursday afternoons and via Zoom on Wednesdays. They are led by Renaissance Academy members and feature topics in music, history, travel, current events, literature, art and more.
An annual fee of $180 allows members to enroll in up to three courses per term and attend two speakers’ forums, as well as free access to the indoor track Tuesdays and Thursdays. Luncheons take place in the winter and spring.
Registration is set for Sept. 19 to 26, and classes start Oct. 7. Details are at www.renaissancechgo.org or 708-819-013.
Seniors named Distinguished Young Women of Illinois finalists
Andrew High School seniors Alaina Ekdale and Natalie Orbon were named state finalists in the Distinguished Young Women of Illinois, a recognition granted to just 22 top senior girls across the state.
The pair took part in personal interviews, a physical fitness routine, talent presentation and public speech. They also were evaluated on scholastic achievement in high school, such as by grades, advanced placement classes, ACT and SAT scores and academic extracurricular activities. Each earned scholarships to 12 different colleges, and Orbon earned a cash scholarship to use at the college of her choice “based on her outstanding interview,” according to a news release.
Prayer service remembers aborted children
St. Damian Catholic Church hosts its 13th annual National Day of Remembrance for Aborted Children in the grottos on the west side of the church, 5250 155th St. in Oak Forest.
The solemn prayer service takes place after the 9 a.m. Mass Sept. 13. A guest speaker will talk about her years of experience as a pregnancy assistance counselor. Information is at 708-687-1370.
Acoustics Under the Stars planned at Camp Shabbona
Area musicians and music lovers are invited to Acoustics Under the Stars from 6 to 9:30 p.m. Sept. 19 at Camp Shabbona Woods, 15810 Torrence Ave. in South Holland.
The program, sponsored by the Cook County Forest Preserves, will feature sing-a-longs around a campfire and a guided walk. Musicians may bring their instrument to join in. Free hot dogs and lemonade will be served. Attendees should bring a chair or blanket and their favorite refreshments.
The gate opens at 5 p.m., and some campsites and cabins are still available, which require a fee. Register for the evening by calling 708-868-0606 or emailing sandridge.naturecenter@cookcountyil.gov.
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