EAST CHICAGO

Display and raffle honor fight against censorship

The East Chicago Public Library celebrates Banned Books Week through Saturday at the main and Pastrick branches.

The library will have a book display, bookmarks and a raffle. Patrons who check out books from the banned book list or any book now through Oct. 4 will qualify to enter the raffle for a chance to win a $25 Borders gift card and "I Read Banned Books" tote bag. The raffle is open to all East Chicago residents, and the drawing will take place at both locations Oct. 6.

The main library is at 2401 E. Columbus Drive and the Pastrick branch at 1008 W. Chicago Ave.

For more information, call (219) 397-5505.

GRIFFITH

Church takes donations at blessing for animals

St. Mary Church, 525 N. Broad St., hosts its 29th annual Feast of St. Francis Pet Blessing at noon Saturday in the church courtyard.

The church also is accepting donations of pet food and supplies, such as unflavored dog biscuits; large, absorbent cloth towels; laundry detergent; and plastic litter pans, as well as monetary donations. All donations go to the Humane Society Calumet Area and Griffith Animal Shelter. All pets attending the blessing must be on a leash.

For more information, call (219) 922-2277.

HAMMOND

Boost club hosting its first community bazaar

Hammond High School All-School Booster Club will host its first community bazaar, craft and fun fair.

It's from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday in the school parking lot, 5926 Calumet Ave.

For more information, call (219) 933-9135.

HAMMOND

Firefighters' open house includes demonstrations

The Hammond Fire Department hosts an open house from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at the Central Fire Station, 6110 Calumet Ave.

Activities include demonstrations, station tours, fire prevention information, moonwalk for children, music, door prizes and more. Hot dogs, beverages and chips will be provided.

For more information, call (219) 853-6416.

HIGHLAND

Check out doll clothes, decor items at crafts fair

An arts and craft show with vendor fair will be from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Oct. 5 at the Lincoln Center, 2450 Lincoln St.

Crafters will sell doll clothes, candles, afghans, handmade jewelry, bean bag games, glass art, home décor, photo albums, hand bags and more. There also will be dealers from Discovery Toys, Tupperware, Arbonne, Tastefully Simple, Home Interiors and more. Tiffany's Tea Room and the American Legion Post 17 will be open for lunch and bake sale concessions.

For more information, call (219) 838-0114.