Jaycees should get badge for good works

As a former Boy Scout, I've got a soft spot for merit badges.

The Hoffman Estates Jaycees are holding a car wash to benefit the Clearbrook Boy Scouts 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday, Sept. 15, at the police parking lot at 1200 Gannon Drive. This isn't the first time the Jaycees have raised funds for the Clearbrook Scouts, a troop of adults with developmental disabilities. In the past they've held fairs and other events. Car washes cost $5.

At the Aug. 18 meeting, Mayor William McLeod presented the Jaycees with a key to the village, notes Jaycees President Erin Smith. It's another busy season for the chapter, which will also start the Make a Difference Day food drive on Oct. 27.

Arts and brats: The next step for Hoffman Estates Arts Commission is the Chalk It Up chalk mural festival held on the week of Sept. 11. Artists of all ages are invited to decorate sidewalks around the theme "Growing the Arts in Hoffman Estates." The event is open to residents and groups with Hoffman Estates residents. Awards will be given.

The commission will also host an Oktoberfest event, called Platzkonzert on Saturday Sept. 15 at the village green. Get ready to waltz as the Johnny Wagner Band will supply Bavarian-style music. The kids will be entertained with a magician. Oh, and for the first time in the event's history, German beer will be available.

Call the village at (847) 882-9100 or visit the Web sites at www.hoffmanestates.com or www.myspace.com/hoffmanestatesarts for more information on both events.

Police open house Saturday: Sgt. Jim Campbell of the Hoffman Estates Police Department wants to ensure a large turnout for Saturday's open house at the police station. Come to the station from 11 a. m. to 2 p.m. at 1200 Gannon Drive to get to know your police officers and ask questions. Youngsters can also explore police vehicles and refreshments will be served. Call the station at (847) 882-1818 for more information.

Branch pickup: While last month's storm rattled some branches, this fall marks the return of the village's free curbside branch pickup program. Starting Sept. 24, public works will pickup branches up to 8-inches wide or 10-feet in length, as well as shrub trimmings. Willow tree branches will also be picked up if separated. Tree trunks, firewood, railroad ties, lumber, fenceposts or other wooden objects, as well as grass, leaves, sod, plants and yard waste won't be picked up. Branches need to be put out by 7 a.m. on the first date of pickup.