This Saturday, Oct. 11, is your opportunity to make a difference at Springfield Park, 269 Springfield Drive, Bloomingdale. From 9 a.m. until noon, you can help preserve the wetlands.

What? You’ve never noticed the wetlands? That’s all the more reason to volunteer to collect and disburse plant seeds and paint a birdhouse for a local nursing home resident. In the process, you’ll discover the 1.1-mile nature trail.

Local businesses have been challenged to join youth groups and local residents. All participants will receive a free T-shirt, refreshments, and a hay ride. For information, call (630) 529-3650 or just show up.

Let’s Talk Gardening

The Bloomingdale Garden Club has invited WCPT 820 AM radio host Mike Nowak to their 7 p.m., Wednesday, Oct. 15, meeting in the lower level of the Bloomingdale Police Department, 201 S. Bloomingdale Road.

Nowak is the former host of the WGN radio show, “Let’s Talk Gardening.” His humorous presentation will include gardening and environmental responsibility. For information, call  (630) 351-1010.

A fast-talker in town

At 6:30 p.m. on Thursday, Oct. 16, John Hilliard of Bartlett will start fast-talking at the Bloomingdale Golf Club, 181 N. Glen Ellyn Road. The certified auctioneer will preside over the annual auction of the Villagers Club of Bloomingdale.

This free event is better than that episode of the old “Dick Van Dyke Show.” Hilliard will auction off collectibles, home décor, holiday items and gift certificates. The villagers will have door prizes and raffle prizes. Proceeds will benefit local charities. For information, call Maureen at (630) 351-3345.

Craft Show for Veterans

Kathie Fitzpatrick will be at the annual American Legion Post 1084 Auxiliary craft show on Friday and Saturday, Oct. 17 and 18, at 344 E. Maple, Roselle.

Fitzpatrick informed me that booth rental fees will be donated to the Gifts to Yanks Campaign. In addition to the craft fair, there will be a quilt raffle.

For information, e-mail katfitz57@aol.com.

Welcome, Father Jerry

On Sunday, Oct. 5, St. Isidore’s Church, 427 W. Army Trail Road, Bloomingdale, welcomed their new pastor, Father Gerald Simonelli. This Illinois native — he grew up in Bensenville, attended seminary in Mundelein, and served at St. Mary’s Church in West Chicago — knows about local needs.

“I’m very excited to have been assigned as pastor of St. Isidore’s Parish,” Simonelli said. “I look forward to shepherding this faith-filled community as we strive to use our gifts for the good of others.”