Five Things You Need to Know, Nov. 3, 2011

1. Salvation Army Angels

The teamed with JC Penney to gather children's Christmas gifts. Visit JC Penney's website's Adopt an Angel page. Use the 48170 zip code to donate to children in Northville, Plymouth, Canton and Belleville. Select gifts in the catalog; shipping is free.

2. Volunteer for Historical Museum

Canton Historical Society is recruiting volunteers for its 2012 fundraisers. You can help with a or or a completely new event. Requirements: Enthusiasm and willingness to participate in planning. For details, visit www.cantonhistoricalsociety.org or call 734-397-0088.

3. League of Women Voters' Silent Auction

The League of Women Voters of Northwest Wayne County combines its membership meeting with a silent auction from noon to 3 p.m., Saturday, at St. Paul's Presbyterian Church, 27475 5 Mile Rd, Livonia. Members and guests are welcome to attend this event, the organization's main fundraiser for the year. Bid on all kinds of items and services, a perfect way to get a jump start on holiday shopping.

4. Grant for Michigan State Police

From the Your Tax Dollars at Work Dept.: The Michigan State Police received a $400,000 federal grant to conduct data-driven, evidence-based policing research and training, aimed at improving police responses to emerging crime trends. The $400,000 grant is part of the Smart Policing Initiative from the U.S. Department of Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance.

5. Turkey Trot for Epilepsy Research

Registration is open for Canton's 9th Annual Turkey Trot, which benefits epilepsy research. The 5k run/walk at steps off from at 9 a.m. on Thanksgiving morning. Entry fees are $25 for adults and $10 for children 10 and under. Register online at csc.canton-mi.org, in person at , 46555 W. Michigan Ave., or by phone at 734-483-5600.