Family reading night | Chicago Heights

Bloom High School will host a Family Reading Night program from 7 to 8:30 p.m. November 6 in the Dr. James D. Steckel Library at the school, 101 W. 10th St. The event is open to school-aged children and their parents or caretakers. Mary Lidd, Bloom librarian,

said the theme of Family Reading Night is "Crowing About Books." Activities will include storytelling by Bloom students, a scarecrow book walk, a simple craft, family reading time and a free raffle. Apple cider, coffee and cookies will be served.

FYi: Call (708) 755-1122, ext. 2151.

Donation | Chicago

The students, faculty and staff of De La Salle raised $20,596 during the weekly mission collections held during the 2007-08 school year. The $20,596 raised marks the 20th consecutive school year that De La Salle has surpassed the $10,000 mark in funds collected for the missions. It is also the second time that De La Salle has eclipsed the $20,000 mark, raising more than $21,700 in the 2002-03 school year. Since the 1985-86 school year, De La Salle has raised $309,225. Among the entities benefiting from De La Salle's generosity in the 2007-08 school year were St. Rose Center, The Courage Program, Y-Me Breast Cancer Drive, St. Gabriel Church of Mound Bayou, MS, Catholic Relief Service and the Lasallian Schools Twinning Program.

EDIBLE PLANTS | Hammond

Edible Native Plants and Common Weeds is a program at 1 p.m. Nov. 2 at Gibson Woods Nature Preserve, 6201 Parrish Ave. View a number of more common edibles along with discussion on their culinary uses and methods of preparation by local botanist/chef David Hamilla. Learn how to identify and collect those suitable for the dinner plate. Recipes will be shared to try at home. Reservations are required.

FYI: Call (219) 844-3188.

RAISING CHILDREN | Griffith

St. Mary School is sponsoring An Evening with Dr. Ray Guarendi at 7 p.m. Nov. 10 at St. Mary-Hildebrandt Hall, 525 N. Lafayette St. The father of 10, a clinical psychologist, author, public speaker and radio host on Relevant Radio and EWTN television, Guarendi will offer ideas on raising better children, dealing with challenges of ADD, forgiving, divorce situations, teen dilemmas, adoption, coping with stress as couples, and more. Tickets are $20 per person and $30 a couple and are available at St. Mary School or the St. Mary Rectory Office, 525 N. Broad St.

FYI: Call (219) 924-8633.