Donations needed for WINGS auction
The WINGS program needs you, Hoffman Estates.
Mayor William McLeod will again host his mayoral ball Oct. 19 at Stonegate Conference Center, featuring a silent auction to raise money for WINGS. Last year, the ball raised more than $10,000, McLeod said.
WINGS, which stands for Women in Need Growing Stronger, is based in Palatine. The organization has helped provide shelter and assistance since 1989 to women and children who are victims of domestic violence.
McLeod is looking for businesses or residents to do what the Cubs' Aramis Ramirez could not do in the playoffs -- step up and rise to the occasion.
McLeod is looking for items to be donated for the silent auction to help WINGS continue helping those in need.
In past years, silent auction prizes have included vacations, dinners and sports memorabilia. There's even a dinner where McLeod plays a waiter.
Those interested in donating can call McLeod at home at (847) 991-5811.
Taxi program set: The village's subsidized taxi program could start by the end of the year, and many trustees want to spread the word to senior citizens.
The village is preparing to print coupons and ID cards for those who would use the program, which would provide discounted taxi rides within the village's boundaries. The village board hasn't formally approved the plan, which could come by the end of the month.
The pilot program is for residents ages 60 and over, the disabled or for those from low-income households. They'll have to apply with the village so officials could determine eligibility, which would come with 10 $5 coupons to be used on one-way taxi rides.
Trustee Gary Pilafas said in a time when most towns are cutting back services, Hoffman Estates residents should be proud that the village is adding the taxis.
Trustee Karen Mills said the annual Harvest Luncheon, planned for Nov. 14, also at Stonegate, would be an ideal place for seniors citizens to sign up for the program. Sponsored by the Commission for Senior Citizens, tickets are $18.
When the village board adopts the program, check here for details on how to apply.
Didn't stay for the pie: I must in the minority to remember that the Baker's Square restaurant chain used to be called Poppin' Fresh Pies. Well, Hoffman Estates is about to lose its spot to enjoy a slice of French silk as news has spread that the location on Higgins Road could soon close. Another restaurant is a possibility, and the village also has talked to Nissan about buying the parcel.
• Do you have any interesting Hoffman Estates story ideas? Send them along to Ashok Selvam at (847) 427-4475 or aselvam@dailyherald.com.