Hi, Neighbors!
Happy Spring. Spring officially begins March 20. Did you know that the first day of spring does not fall on the same date every year? Even though most of us were taught that March 21 is the official first day of spring, in the 20th century, that was the case only for 36 of 100 years. From 1981 to 2012, the first day of spring will fall no later than March 20. After the long winter we’ve had this year, I think it’s particularly fitting that spring starts early.
I would also like to wish you a very Happy Easter. Did you know that Americans spend almost as much money buying candy at Easter ($1.9 million) as they do at Halloween ($2 million)? That’s a lot of jelly beans and chocolate bunnies. For some non-edible Easter basket stuffers, try crayons, small toys, books, baseball cards, videos, movie passes, or tickets to any event your child would love.
McCord School is hosting a rummage sale from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, April 5 in the gym at the school, 8450 S. Nashville Ave. Make plans to attend — to find a treasure you can’t live without. Proceeds will benefit the school’s PTA.
Donations for the sale are welcome and much appreciated. If you would like to recycle some of your unwanted things and benefit a good cause at the same time, drop it off at the school, or call Debbie Konieczny at (708) 237-1650.
Don’t forget that tax season is upon us. If you need any state or federal tax forms, the Prairie Trails Public Library, 8449 S Moody Ave., has what you’re looking for. While you’re there, you may register for one of their fantastic programs.
At 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 26, they will be showing the classic movie, “Casablanca,” starring Humphrey Bogart. And at 6:30 p.m. Monday, March 31, bring the kids to Family Movie Night to see the movie “Enchanted.” All library programs require advanced registration. Call (708) 430-3688 for more information on these and other library events.
The Burbank Park District is offering a Heart Saver First Aid class for those ages 13-17 years from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, March 22 at the Newcastle Park Recreation Center, 8050 S Newcastle Ave. The fee is $30, and advanced registration is required. Also at Newcastle Park Recreation Center, from 4 to 5 p.m. Thursday, March 20, children in preschool through second grade may meet “McGruff” and “Officer Friendly” and learn what to do when approached by a stranger.
Do you like to gamble? The Burbank Park District is offering a trip to the Isle of Capri Casino in Bettendorf, Iowa, on Wednesday, March 26. The cost is $23 per person, and includes motor coach transportation, a gaming session, a lunch buffet, and $9 cash back on your gaming card. The bus will depart at 8 a.m. from Newcastle Park Recreation Center, 8050 S. Newcastle Ave., and will return at 8 p.m.
Advanced registration is required for all park district events. Please call (708) 599-2070 for more information.
That’s all for this week, folks. Remember to send me your news at burbanklife@donnalauritzen.com.
Have a Happy Easter and Happy Spring!
Until we meet again…