Youth symphony auditions in Elgin

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Updated: July 7, 2011 2:10PM

Elgin: Tryouts are set for June 1-5 at ECC

On June 1-5, the Elgin Youth Symphony Orchestra — an in-residence ensemble in the Arts Center at Elgin Community College, will audition students for its 36th season. Auditions will be held on ECC’s main campus. Students ranging from those who will begin fourth grade in the fall to college may audition for one of the six ensembles. Applications and audition requirements may be found at www.eyso.org or by calling the EYSO at 847-841-7700. Auditions also can be scheduled directly on the website. There is a $45 audition fee per instrument. EYSO is committed to making participation accessible to any qualified student regardless of financial need. Students may earn part or all of their tuition. EYSO members who are age 16 at the beginning of a semester may be eligible to earn college credits playing in the EYSO.

Bartlett: Township to host Freedom Bash

For the seventh straight year, Hanover Township will host Operation Support Our Troops: Freedom Bash, to benefit the men and women serving in the armed forces overseas. On June 10-11, donations of goods and supplies for the armed forces will be accepted with a program of events running both days. Admission is free and open to the public. The June 10 program includes a Car Show Cruise Night and performances by the Great Lakes Naval Base Band and The John Ford Band. On June 11, teams will compete in the Hogs-N-Hens BBQ Cook-Off for trophies in three categories. A Touch-a-Truck area with fire engines and police cars for kids will be available in the morning. Bingo enthusiasts will be able to enjoy indoor bingo in the afternoon. Live music will play throughout the day, with featured acts Gypsy Fly and Smokehouse. Both days will include a military ceremony conducted by local VFW and American Legion posts, a beer garden, concession stand, kids play area and VIP tent for veterans and active military. To register for the car show, BBQ cook-off or for a complete list of programs and events, visit www.freedombash.com.

Elgin: New downtown harvest market site

Thursday will be opening day of the 2011 Downtown Elgin Harvest Market, presented by Alexian Brothers, with special extended market hours from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at its new location at the old library lot at Kimball Street and North Grove Avenue next to The Centre of Elgin and across from Gail Borden Public Library. Opening day will feature free Harvest Market tote bags with proof of purchase; Alexian Brothers Health System booth, with wellness information and screenings; sponsor and community partner informational booths; Kids’ Corner with face painting, table games, coloring pages, puzzles, and prizes provided by Highland Fellowship Church/Highland Christian Academy; and live entertainment including a strolling violinist, folk singer, and more. The Downtown Elgin Harvest Market will be open every Thursday from June 2 to Sept. 29. Normal market hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. On the first Thursday of each month, the market will have its special First Thursday featuring extended hours from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. plus live entertainment, Artz Zone, Kids’ Corner, sustainability and wellness booths, market munchies and much more. For more information, contact Market Manager Jennifer Benson at 847-488-1456 or email ElginHarvestMarket@gmail.com.