Arlington Camera Club - Community Activities

Nature Photography and Kids

Joanne Trahanas and Bill Kruser had the opportunity to introduce 13 lucky kids to basic digital photography. Both Joanne and Bill tried to show the kids how to capture the fun and crazy world around them. Stations were set up inside the Historical Society where the kids could try their hand at setting up dried flower arrangements, using mylar and shooting small objects. Once that was accomplished the kids were allowed to roam around outside on the grounds to hopefully photograph bugs, butterflies and flowers. The kids seemed to have a GREAT time and came away with some FANTASTIC photos.

U.S. Fallen Heroes Foundation, July 26th, 2010, at Schaumburg Town Square

A ceremony was held on July 26, 2010 to pay tribute to local members of the armed forces that have given their lives in Iraq and Afghanistan. Four families were honored, and recognized as families that have given the ultimate sacrifice. The ceremony and individual plaques were sponsored by Jewels by Park Lane and the Schaumburg Township District Library. Members of the Arlington Camera Club photographed the ceremony, and the musical concert that followed. The final photographs will be shared with the sponsor organizations, as well as the families of those honored.

The evening event was highlighted by the Honor Guard of the Great Lakes Marine Reserve, and a color guard presentation made up of 15 local American Legion and VFW Posts from the surrounding area.

Arthur Levin, co-owner of Jewels by Park Lane in Schaumburg, presented the commemorative plaques to the families. Mr. Levin was assisted by Larry Summers Director of the United States Fallen Heroes Foundation based in Texas. Their goal is to build a monument by 2013 in Dallas to honor all fallen heroes.

Wheeling Township Food Pantry and School Supply Donation – July 21, 2010

The Wheeling Township Food Pantry is stocked by donations received from the community. Wheeling Township residents who need food due to financial difficulties, or who are in the process of applying for DHS Food Stamps, may use the pantry. They current serve over 300 families per month.

School supplies are also always welcomed at this time of year, and the staff is delighted to accept donations that help the children in need as they return to class this fall.

The Arlington Camera Club answered the request, and we packed the donation box at our meeting on July 21st. The Township Personnel were very grateful for the canned goods, paper products, and other food items, but they were truly thrilled to see the donations of school supplies in the form of pencils, crayons, note books, back packs, etc. Our club donations were a surprise that made their day, and more importantly we will have will put a smile on the faces of many children. “Way To Go” ACC.

4H Photo Arts Contest , July 17th, 2010, at Gemini School, Niles, IL

For over 100 years, 4-H has engaged young people in cutting-edge science learning, including areas such as animal science, food science, electricity, computer science, and ... yes our favorite, “Photography”.

The Northwest Cook County 4H Clubs held their Summer Arts and Crafts Show and Competition on July 17th. The photography competition covered various age, skill, and project categories/levels. The 28 entries were given appropriate awards, and one participant from each category was as advanced as a State Level Contestant. The Arlington Camera Club provided judging for the event. Judges found that interviewing the contestants was as much fun as judging the pictures that they had created. Some great photo ideas can be found in such simple subjects. Congratulations to everyone that participated in this fun filled day.

Arlington Heights Ride of Silence – May 19, 2010

The Arlington Heights Ride of Silence, organized by the Arlington Heights Bike Club, drew 120 riders May 19, who were remembering cyclists who have died or been injured in accidents.

The Arlington Heights Ride of Silence, organized by the Arlington Heights Bike Club, drew 120 riders May 19, who were remembering cyclists who have died or been injured in accidents.

The ride started in 2003 in Dallas, as a result of a friend wanting to honor and remember a fellow cyclist who had been hit and killed by the mirror of a bus passing too close. It came to Arlington Heights in 2005 after Barb Barr heard about it. Now, there are more than 300 events in all 50 states and 25 countries covering seven continents. Members of our Arlington Camera Club were on hand to photograph the event for the Arlington Heights Bike Club. One of our shots was also used in the Daily Herald newspaper article.

Ride organizer Gary Gilbert said "We assert our rights to use the roads; respect our obligation to follow the vehicle code; and ride aware of our surroundings. We are saddened by the loss of life; the impact on the families of the victims and everyone involved; but celebrate the lives of the victims as they motivate us to be noticed."

Hustle Up the Hancock - February 28, 2010

Each year, more than 4,000 people race to the top of John Hancock Center to raise funds for lung disease research, advocacy and education. The event is a world class stair climb and offers a full 94-flight climb or a 52-flight half climb. As a local leader in lung health and air quality issues, Respiratory Health Association of Metropolitan Chicago works with local media to raise public awareness of these issues.

Our very own Cindy Kuffel accepted this challenge, and she made us all proud by competing and completing this incredible climb. WOW what a great achievement, and also a very successful fund raiser for a great cause. Congratulations Cindy!