Fox Valley - admin

Task force recommends cutting Kane board to 24

A Kane County task force is recommending that the county board be reduced initially by two members as it goes through a state-mandated redistricting process. ... Full story

Kane finance panel looking at balancing pay disparities

The Kane County Board Finance/Budget Committee got some advice Wednesday in the form of 13 budget recommendations from a special advisory panel. ... Full story

St. Charles to start rain barrel program

City residents this spring can join St. Charles’ environmental efforts by participating in the rain barrel program it is cosponsoring with the Conservation Foundation. ... Full story

County committee counseled on saving money

If Kane County is to save more money and be more more fiscally efficient, its board should prioritize areas of funding and have a financial policy to support those priorities. ... Full story

Batavia aldermen debate proposed rules for backyard chickens

After wrangling about how restrictive an ordinance regulating backyard chickens should be, aldermen at Wednesday's City Services Committee decided to continue discussion of the issue until their next meeting. ... Full story

Delnor, CDH merger complete

Delnor Health System and Central DuPage Health today announced that their merger is complete. They have formed a new, locally based health system, stating in a news release that the goal is to bring exceptional care to a patient population of more than 1 million in Chicago’s western suburbs. ... Full story

School District 204 candidates stress community involvement

Five candidates seeking Indian Prairie District 204 board seats all have deep connections to the community as incumbent members, local school activists or parents of children in school. ... Full story

Several area schools called low achieving, but not low enough

Several schools in Elgin School District U46 and Carpentersville area Community Unit School District 300 have been identified by the U.S. Department of Education as some of the country’s persistently lowest-achieving schools. ... Full story

Task force recommends cutting Kane board to 24

A Kane County task force is recommending that the county board be reduced initially by two members as it goes through a state-mandated redistricting process. ... Full story

10 years after ‘single-stream’ revolution, recycling made easy

In the 1960s, science fiction writer Isaac Asimov predicted that in a few decades, cheap energy from nuclear fusion would make it possible for all garbage, from pop cans to pizza boxes to sewage sludge, to be vaporized in a really hot furnace. ... Full story

Development hot issue for Elburn board candidates

One incumbent and four challengers are seeking the three seats up for election to the Village Board on April 5. ... Full story

Aurora yard waste pickup to begin

Collection of yard waste and unbundled brush starts Monday and runs through April 15. ... Full story

Park District offers garden plots at Oakhurst

A limited number of community garden plots are available for public rent at Oakhurst Forest Preserve along Fifth Avenue on the East Side. ... Full story

Computer-based classes help students graduate on time

A computer-based science course is a lot like the classroom, really. ... Full story

Elburn poised to require  removal of infested ash trees

Village officials are poised to give themselves a new weapon in the fight to curb the spread of the emerald ash borer beetle. ... Full story

Richmond, Davis merger faces legal opposition

Lawyer Timothy Dwyer has made good on his promise that he would challenge St. Charles School District 303 in court if the school board approved a plan to restructure Davis and Richmond elementary schools. ... Full story

Elgin’s Sustainability Action Plan moves ahead

With all the environmental efforts under way in town, you could say that Elgin is greener than Ireland on St. Patrick’s Day. ... Full story

5 questions with the men who want to be mayor

On April 5, Elgin Mayor Ed Schock hopes to be elected to his fourth term, which would make him the person who has held the job the longest in the city’s history. ... Full story

Bats, birds may get a closer look in Kane County

According to Bill Graser, Kane County Forest Preserve District wildlife biologist, it’s time to get serious about studying bats and birds in the county. ... Full story

DuPage housing agency board steps down

Before the memo came, the board was eyeing the exits. ... Full story

What’s that smell? Stink bugs are moving in

Hold your nose — stink bugs have made it to the Chicago area. ... Full story

U-46: No need to present defense in suit

In a 14-page court filing, attorneys for Elgin Area School District U-46 argue the Chicago law firm suing the district for racial discrimination has not proved its case. ... Full story

Speakers look to break silence on domestic violence

Jim Kintz earned a Barth Award from TriCity Family Services for devoting so much time to the issue of domestic violence. ... Full story

Wheaton artist finds healing in art

“Pets, Portraits and Petals,” an exhibit by artist Margaret Bucholz of Wheaton, is on display April 1-30 at Gallery 200, 200 Main St., West Chicago. ... Full story

All Shook Up! - at the Paramount Theatre, Aurora

The story is all NEW! The hits are all ELVIS! It's a square little town until a motorcycle ridin', guitar playin' and hip swivelin' hunk rides in and has everyone jumpin' out of their blue suede shoes in ALL SHOOK UP. ... Full story

Fire board trustees mum on stop-work orders

Trustees of the Fox River and Countryside Fire/Rescue District said nothing during their monthly meeting Monday night about the stop-work orders imposed on the two fire stations they aim to have running May 1. ... Full story

Embracing the yoga experience

Candles glowed, soft music played and Lisa Bertke offered words of encouragement as she led 13 participants through a 90-minute class at Prana Yoga. ... Full story

Fox River and Countryside seeks permits from county

The Fox River and Countryside Fire/Rescue District “jumped the gun” as it pursued unauthorized construction on its fire stations, but it is in the process of rectifying the situation, a Kane County official said Friday. ... Full story

Firm recommends installing  liner system to fix Quarry

A firm studying Quarry Beach has recommended the installation of a geomembrane liner system to minimize water loss at the facility. ... Full story

‘Godspell’ makes most of intimate setting of Geneva Underground Playhouse

“Godspell” was a big off-Broadway hit in the early 1970s and made just as big of a splash when it debuted on Broadway in June 1976 at the Broadhurst Theater. ... Full story

Money Smart classes coming to DuPage

“A penny saved is a penny earned,” advised statesman Ben Franklin. ... Full story

Before layoff vote, D300 board meeting got personal

An emotional school board meeting Wednesday night also turned personal in Community Unit School District 300. ... Full story

Elgin glowing green

With all the environmental efforts under way in town, you could say that Elgin is greener than Ireland on St. Patrick’s Day. ... Full story

Batavia High School hopes theater will be big draw

The High School’s new theater could earn tens of thousands of dollars for the Batavia School District when it opens this June, the Board of Education heard Tuesday. ... Full story

Aurora committee again delays vote on butcher shop

The City Council Planning and Development Committee on Wednesday again decided to hold off on a vote to allow a specialty butcher shop at 629 S. River St., citing the need to wait for health inspection records. ... Full story

Schielke: Keep trash out of recycling bins

The Batavia Environmental Commission has taken on the two-hour Earth Hour event as one of their missions to educate citizens. ... Full story

St. Charles Fine Art  Show taking shape

The 13th annual St. Charles Fine Art Show will feature a Purchase Award Sponsor program in which individuals can pledge to spend a minimum amount during the two-day event in exchange for Purchase Award Sponsor benefits. ... Full story

Fire station in Lily Lake drives Elburn fire board race

The two candidates seeking a seat on the Elburn and Countryside Fire Protection District's board of trustees both believe Lily Lake will eventually get a fire station of its own. ... Full story

Backyard chicken discussion returns at Batavia meeting

Aldermen on Wednesday will resume discussion on whether to allow residents to keep chickens in their backyards. ... Full story

Tennis Anyone? - an Interview with Greg Couch

Greg Couch asked that age-old sports chestnut two years ago, and was answered in the affirmative. But it wasn’t what you’d think, the former Colorado high-school state doubles champ lining up a partner for his regular indoor court match. (free registration required) ... Full story

Pink slips & protests

“I just lost my job,” one woman said afterward, stunned. ... Full story

D300 raises fees for tuition programs

So far this year, the Community Unit School District 300 Board of Education has approved $8.3 million in non-academic cuts to the district budget. Last year, that number was about $9 million. ... Full story

Kane’s open space campaign

Kane County Forest Preserve District officials point to a number of reasons to approve next month’s bond issue referendum — from the need for more open space to the historically cheap price of land right now to their contention it actually could save taxpayers money in the long run. ... Full story

Water pressure issues for far west Elgin

Here’s another consequence of the recession: With the housing market and Elgin’s western expansion slowed to a crawl, some places located in that new part of town have been dealing with occasional low water pressure issues. ... Full story

Comings and Goings: Geneva recording studio celebrates 35 years

Richard Peck was in the right place at the right time in 1975 when he worked at a grocery store in Geneva and Geneva High School’s band director came in the store. ... Full story

Park District needs volunteers

Residents are invited to help beautify local parks at the Fox Valley Park District’s Spring Spruce-up from 9 a.m. to noon on April 16. ... Full story

Durbin warns of cuts to preschool funding

Concepcion Reyes’ 5-year-old son, Matthew, didn’t know how to spell his first name or identify colors when he came to Head Start one year ago. She was worried about his development and his shyness, she said. ... Full story

Area could feel the earthquake impact

John Hall Jr. won’t compare the damage to his business with what the people of Japan have endured in the last few weeks, and will endure for months to come. ... Full story

2011 McNally's St. Patrick's Day Parade Winners

The St. Charles Chamber of Commerce announces the winning entries from the 2011 McNally’s St. Patrick’s Parade. Entries were judged as they passed by the viewing stand in front of the municipal building during the parade. ... Full story

City approves pay deal with police

City council members signed off on a new contract with police that keeps base pay flat this year, though some officers still will get raises. ... Full story

Sawyer Mansion becomes Elgin landmark

Some people call it the Sawyer Mansion, but Nancy Farquhar and her family just call it home. ... Full story

Work ordered to stop  at Fox River ﬁre stations

Officials for the Fox River and Countryside Fire/Rescue District said Wednesday they hope to straighten out a situation in which work has been halted on its fire stations under construction in Campton Hills and unincorporated South Elgin. ... Full story

District 204 board appoints three administrators

In filling three administrative positions, Indian Prairie School District 204 looked to a couple of familiar faces for two new hires, but went outside the district for the third. ... Full story

Aurora alderman-at-large rips opponent

Richard Irvin, the incumbent candidate in the alderman-at-large race, questioned opponent Judd Lofchie’s record as an attorney Tuesday night. ... Full story

St. Charles teen violinist to be featured on NPR

Arianna Smith, a 17-year-old violinist from St. Charles, will appear on an upcoming episode of "From the Top," the NPR radio program featuring America’s best young classical musicians and hosted by acclaimed pianist Christopher O’Riley. ... Full story

Fox Valley Repertory - The Name Reflects the Direction

Pheasant Run Resort first opened its dinner theater in 1964. For 24 years many renowned names appeared on stage for the Fox Valley community to enjoy. (free registration required) ... Full story

County board raises redistricting concerns

A task force that is overseeing the redistricting of the Kane County Board does not want individual board members submitting their own maps on how they think the board should be redrawn. ... Full story

Batavia School Board  gives notice to teachers

The Batavia School Board on Tuesday told 65 teachers they might not have a job next year. ... Full story

Downtown talk dominates Batavia forum

Ideas for improving downtown Batavia were plentiful Tuesday morning as city council candidates shared their visions at an Eggs & Issues event in the city council’s chambers. ... Full story

Kane County Forest Preserve seeks $30M to take advantage of low land prices

Those in charge at the Kane County Forest Preserve District know that this spring may not be the best time to ask voters to raise their taxes, even by a little. ... Full story

Graduation changes still being mulled in Batavia

The Batavia School District will continue to take public comments on a proposal to reduce the number of credits needed for graduation from 28 to 26 to allow flexibility in offering some noncredit options for students. ... Full story

Elgin council candidate profiles

This April, 10 people are running to fill three spots on the Elgin City Council. Today, The Courier-News publishes profiles of five of those candidates, listed alphabetically. The remaining candidates will be featured on another day. ... Full story

Forum Wednesday for West school candidates

Candidates for the West Aurora School Board will face off in a forum Wednesday night. ... Full story

Aurora nixes proposal for wind turbines at police HQ

A plan to install five wind turbines at the Aurora Police Department headquarters has been axed by Mayor Tom Weisner. ... Full story

Lewandowski new 9th Ward alderman

Allan Lewandowski officially became the second man to serve as 9th Ward alderman Tuesday night. ... Full story

Pelicans make migratory pit stop in Fox Valley

The American white pelicans are paying their annual visit to Nelson Lake Marsh. ... Full story

Illinois' second city

Aurora unseats Rockford as state's No. 2 as it nears 200,000 population mark ... Full story

Lisle Arboretum bird watchers have eyes to the skies

For Vicki Vetter, the joy of bird watching is in the challenge of getting to know her feathered friends by sight or song — and the relaxation she finds along the way. ... Full story

New councilman chosen in Wheaton

A longtime real estate consultant and Wheaton resident is expected to be named to replace a Wheaton City Councilman who stepped down last month for personal reasons. ... Full story

Batavia: No to tax law changes

Batavia is telling state lawmakers to leave its tax-increment financing abilities alone. ... Full story

Dundee-Crown students walk out to protest cuts

Hundreds of students at Dundee-Crown High School in Carpentersville staged a walkout Tuesday morning to protest proposed budget cuts that include teacher layoffs and curriculum changes. ... Full story

Celtic Tenors Saturday, March 26, 2011

The Celtic Tenors have established themselves as the most successful classical crossover artists ever to emerge from Ireland. ... Full story

If You Give A Mouse A Cookie & Other Storybooks Friday, March 25, 2011

This sparkling musical revue is made up of mini-musicals based on popular children's books. When a boy shares his snack with a hungry, ... Full story

Flanagan's Wake 12 weeks only beginning February 12, 2011

Flanagan's Wake is the hilarious interactive Irish wake that has been running in Chicago for 13 smash years! Flanagan's Wake is one of the longest-running shows in Chicago theater history. ... Full story

The Vagina Monologues 12 weeks only beginning February 10, 2011

Critically acclaimed and adored by audiences, The Vagina Monologues, featuring true stories of women from around the world, is full of stories that are funny, witty, impassioned and always candid, ... Full story

Doc Walks the Talk, Has 125-Pound Weight Loss, Active Lifestyle to Prove It

Every day a new group of people grapple for the first time with the idea of their mortality. The trigger might be hitting a certain age, the onset of heart disease, or being around others who are ill. Many turn to their healthcare providers for answers. (free registration required) ... Full story

Work begins on Davis, Richmond changes

St. Charles School District 303 children living outside the attendance areas for Davis and Richmond will have the option to enroll in the restructured elementary schools in the fall, the board of education unanimously decided late Thursday. ... Full story

Kane County forest preserves to feel the burn

It’s time for nature’s “house cleaning,” with some assistance from Kane County Forest Preserve District personnel. ... Full story

U46 candidates talk parent engagement, district budget

Anybody will tell you there are a lot of issues facing schools. ... Full story

West schools may expand programs for gifted students

Starting next school year, gifted sixth- through eighth-grade students in the West Aurora School District may have new classmates and, for some, a new meeting place. ... Full story

Chicago-based company to spearhead Scarecrow Fest

Lagging Scarecrow Fest revenues have prompted the St. Charles Convention and Visitors Bureau to seek help from a professional company that should be able to cut costs and generate sponsorships, Executive Director Amy Egolf said. ... Full story

St. Peter Barn Sale returns to original weekend format

The St. Peter Barn Sale is going back to being a weekend sale at the Kane County Fairgrounds after last year’s experiment with having the sales spread out over several weekends was poorly received. ... Full story

St. Charles’ ﬁscal year to end better than expected

The city of St. Charles expects to end this fiscal year about $435,000 better than it had planned. ... Full story

Delnor, CDH merger approved

Delnor Hospital and Central DuPage Hospital have been given the green light to become one larger health care organization. ... Full story

Paramount wows crowd in unveiling Broadway series

Even if it hadn’t been free, the Paramount Theatre’s Friday show would have been worth the price of admission. ... Full story

Hall Elementary opens 25-year-old time capsule

Hall Elementary students turned back the clock Saturday with the opening of a 25-year-old time capsule containing mementos from former classmates and teachers. ... Full story

Buddy Guy to headline Blues on the Fox

Blues on the Fox will be celebrating its 15th anniversary season this summer with one of the biggest names in the blues. ... Full story

Schock will far outspend Kaptain for Elgin mayor

Two candidates with markedly different campaigning philosophies are in the middle of a race for Elgin mayor. ... Full story

Only 1 Elgin council candidate favors ward system

Only one out of 10 candidates in the race for Elgin City Council advocates changing the city’s election format to a ward system, with one other admitting the idea is growing on him and another saying it could be a possibility down the road. ... Full story

Trivia bee raises money for local literacy promotion

The three women from Elburn's public library have never before worn matching foil hats. ... Full story

Chef's Corner: JIMMY BANNOS Chef/Owner, Heaven On Seven Restaurant

Jimmy Bannos, a third-generation restaurateur, worked at his parents’ diner when he was growing up between the age of 9 and 20. After receiving his formal culinary education at Washburne Trade School, Bannos became infatuated with Crescent City cooking in the early 1980s and worked with famous New Orleans chefs, such as Paul Prudhomme at K-Paul’s, Frank Brigtsen and Emeril Lagasse. (free registration required) ... Full story

Under The Streetlamp - With The Stars of Jersey Boys - March 19

ROCK AND ROLL IS HERE TO STAY as recent leading cast members of the Tony Award-winning smash hit Jersey Boys deliver the sounds of the sixties in an electrifying evening of unforgettable hits. You're gonna hear-some-of-that-rock-and-roll-music, as well as doo-wop ditties, Motown melodies, and cool Rat Pack favorites. Amazingly, these four guys, each a gifted performer, met playing a band onstage and later went on to form a real rock sensation of their very own. ... Full story

Maple Fest - March 19

What's sweet and sticky and comes from trees? That's right, sap! Saturday at Red Oak Nature Center, see how sap from maple trees is tapped, and then turned into delicious maple syrup. Demonstrations are held every hour from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. ... Full story

6th Annual Craft Fair and Vendor Showcase - March 19

Come on out to the 6th Annual WVHS Band Boosters Craft Fair and Vendor Showcase. All proceeds benefit the WVHS Band Programs. Admission only $2, $1 Students & Seniors ... Full story

State of City: Mayor says Aurora working smarter, saving money

Mayor Tom Weisner has seen the city go through changes since he started his tenure in 2005, he said at the State of the City Address Thursday at Plumbers & Pipe Fitters Hall. ... Full story

North Aurora may allow workers to borrow against pensions

Village employees may be able to borrow from their village-managed pension accounts under a program under debate by the Village Board. ... Full story

Mama mia! Free food giveaway Saturday at new pizzeria

If you love pizza and like to get up early, Saturday morning could be for you what the day after Thanksgiving is for deal-hungry shoppers. ... Full story

Voters can meet the candidates at forums

From the League of Women Voters to neighborhood groups, forums give voters an opportunity to meet the candidates and hear their views. Here are some coming up in the next few days. ... Full story

Quinoa with Lemon, Greens and Spring Herbs

The Passover seder can seem challenging for plant-based souls. One possible answer is quinoa. Though most consider it a grain, quinoa is actually kin to spinach, with which it pairs beautifully. Best of all, most rabbis have deemed it suitable for Seders. ... Full story

Fridays during Lent are the time for suburban fish fries and boils

Listing of local options for fish on Fridays! ... Full story

Geneva Underground Playhouse to present 'Godspell' this month

The Geneva Underground Playhouse will present “Godspell,” the musical based on the Gospel of St. Matthew, on March 25. ... Full story

Budget concerns key to Batavia School Board race

Like other school districts around the state, Batavia School District is facing financial troubles. ... Full story

Geneva parks hopefuls say they’ll keep costs down

Two candidates seeking one six-year term as commissioner on the Geneva Park District board pledge to do their best to keep the district’s services up while holding the line on expenses. ... Full story

Richmond, Davis merger gets school board approval

The St. Charles School Board ended weeks of debate Thursday night when members voted 5-2 to approve the administration’s plan to restructure Davis and Richmond elementary schools. ... Full story

Batavia candidates offer thoughts on downtown

Improving Batavia’s downtown is the city’s greatest challenge, according to residents who responded last year to a community survey, and those running for 4th Ward alderman have ideas for revitalization. ... Full story

D203 candidates discuss budget, personnel issues

Uncertainty in state funding has candidates for Naperville’s District 203 sharing ideas of how to keep the district’s finances in good standing. ... Full story

Mayor hopefuls see challenge of change

Candidates for Naperville mayor discussed potential issues associated with dividing the city into districts — and what role the next mayor will play in the process during a Wednesday night candidate forum. ... Full story

Yum! Now - what to do with leftover corned beef?

Ok... we all love a good corned beef and cabbage dinner (in fact, why do we wait for St. Patrick's Day to have this amazing dish?) - BUT what to do with the leftovers??? ... Full story

Vote on grade level centers looms

St. Charles Unit District 303 officials on Monday unveiled additional logistical details about a proposal to turn Davis and Richmond elementary schools into grade level centers, but admit there are still kinks to work out. ... Full story

Aurora police sponsor St. Baldrick’s shave-a-thon for childhood cancer research

Kane County Sheriff Pat Perez expects to have a new nickname after Sunday: Shrek. ... Full story

Kane energy plan could save billions

After months of discussion, Kane County’s 2040 Energy Plan — which proponents say could save billions of dollars — is nearing its final draft. ... Full story

Made in Aurora — circa 2011

Steve Warrenfeltz is living out his rock and roll dreams. After 20 years in public accounting, one day, he counted his last bean and decided to open a record store. It was important to Steve that his store be independent and that it cater not only to the mainstream, but also to the more eclectic and diverse tastes in music. ... Full story

D301 plans changes to its middle schools

A public forum this week on proposed changes to middle schools in Central Community Unit School District 301 packed the gymnasium at Prairie Knolls Middle School. ... Full story

Candidates face off for Geneva school board

Six hopefuls for the Geneva District 304 school board are vying for three four-year terms in the April 5 general election. ... Full story

Candidates tackle Geneva’s money issues

Money is on the minds of the five candidates in two Geneva ward races – namely, how to keep the city on track with services and obligations, while cutting back spending as much as possible. ... Full story

Naperville mayor won't seek another term if he wins re-election

Pradel says he will not endorse anyone ... Full story

The Queen of Bingo

Two shows - Friday, March 18 ... Full story

Jon Reep

Winner of Last Comic Standing #5 A Comedy Central & Bravo regular..."That thing gotta Hemi?" ... Full story

Always, Patsy Cline

- The Sweetest Musical This Side of Heaven Mainstage Theater Presented by Fox Valley Repertory ... Full story

Five vie for three seats on Elgin Community College board

John Dalton, John Duffy and Eleanor “Ellie” MacKinney want to be your three for ECC. These candidates for the Elgin Community College Board of Trustees have joined forces as they campaign against Richard Geary and Robin Lisboa for the three six-year terms available. ... Full story

Channing chief will not return to his post

Channing Memorial Elementary School Principal Ernie Gonzalez will not return to his position next school year from his current leave of absence. ... Full story

Naperville dining scene has fare for every taste

From small family-owned establishments to high-end restaurants run by acclaimed chefs, the Naperville area offers a diverse selection of dining destinations. Whether you have a taste for exotic international flavors or American classics, you’re sure to find something that suits your palate. ... Full story

Asbury Gardens chosen to provide dementia service

The Asbury Gardens Retirement Community in North Aurora will soon be able to provide care for residents with dementia as they progress with their disease. ... Full story

Alderman questions Aurora PD turbines plan

One alderman raised concerns about a plan that would install five wind turbines at the Aurora Police headquarters. ... Full story

St. Charles candidates state their cases

With four contested aldermanic races in St. Charles, most city voters will have the chance on April 5 to elect someone new to represent them on the city council. ... Full story

First Ward hopefuls square off in Geneva

Three candidates for Geneva’s First Ward presented their differences and similarities at a TaxFacts candidate forum Tuesday at the Stephen Persinger Center. ... Full story

County Board begins  redistricting process

A task force that is overseeing the redistricting of the Kane County Board will make a decision on the board’s future makeup by the end of the month. ... Full story

Council hopefuls have big plans for St. Charles

Mixed-use developments with residential units likely won’t find support among the city council’s new aldermen for the former St. Charles Mall site. ... Full story

TribLocal to host For Your Family: Healthy Eating on a Budget

Want to know what’s cooking at TribLocal? Bring your appetite and join TribLocal staff, three TribLocal bloggers and other food enthusiasts at the free event, For Your Family: Healthy Eating on a Budget, which will begin at 7 p.m. March 24 at Whole Foods Market Naperville, 2607 W. 75th St. ... Full story

Dist. 300 cuts jobs

A number of Community Unit District 300 staff, teachers and administrators will not be returning to the district for the 2011-12 school year — some for budgetary reasons, others for disciplinary reasons. ... Full story

Kane County delays vote on Centegra expansion

Kane County Board members voted Tuesday to pause for a more thorough deliberation of plans to build a $233 million hospital in Huntley. But some people believe they shouldn’t just pause, but stop the examination of the plan altogether. ... Full story

U-46 schools to compete in TalentFest at Hemmens

Awards season may be over for the rest of the country, but for Elgin-area schools, there are a few more prizes to hand out. ... Full story

Another option for Fox Valley foodies

If you enjoy the offerings at Sláinte, be sure to check out the student-run restaurant at another Fox Valley community college. ... Full story

Wheaton Park District won’t bid on Hubble

Wheaton Park District officials say they will not bid on the old Hubble Middle School site, even if it forces a reduction in programming, because the price is too high. ... Full story

D300 gets first peek at special education audit

A recent audit of Community Unit School District 300’s special education program produced a report that is more than 80 pages long. ... Full story

Connected to Elgin: Harting gets electronics award

Dietmar and Margrit Harting, a married couple who run a global, family-owned German company, were at its North American office here Monday receiving an award and giving insight into the business’ success. ... Full story

Batavia candidates positive about district’s path

Most aspiring politicians seek local office because they don’t like what the current officials are doing. ... Full story

Kaneland cuts budget $1 million; some librarians, intramurals out

The budget has been trimmed in the Kaneland School District. ... Full story

AHA to release first 10 Jericho relocation vouchers

The first 10 relocation vouchers will be distributed to Jericho Circle families, Aurora Housing Authority officials announced Monday afternoon at the Jericho Circle community center. ... Full story

Geneva staff slices, dices spending in 2012 budget

After city staff carved up the 2011-12 budget, aldermen Monday still found another sliver to slice: Before they approved the proposed general fund budget of $14.6 million, they voted 5-4 not to put $5,000 in the Cultural Arts Commission budget. ... Full story

Parents ask school board  to reject Davis-Richmond merger plan

Parents on Monday pleaded with the St. Charles school board to reject the administration’s controversial plan to restructure Davis and Richmond elementary schools next year. ... Full story

Parents, you're not alone: New study shows kids value quality meals too

As a parent, you realize sharing a family meal is an important way to spend time with your children, but did you know kids also recognize the importance of this activity? ... Full story

Comings and Goings: Glass blowers to open Mausoleum gallery in Aurora

A new art gallery is blowing into downtown Aurora. Two local glass blowers, Ryan Green and Jake Heinz, are opening the Mausoleum Art Gallery at 213 S. River St., adjacent to River Street Plaza. The gallery will feature functional glass pieces and artwork from local artists. ... Full story

Students, staff challenge Batavia on lowering grad standards

School officials are getting some pushback from staff and students on last month’s changes to high school graduation requirements. ... Full story

ReStore restoring affordability on building supplies

Even though the Fox Valley Habitat for Humanity ReStore had done no promotion about Wednesday’s opening of the new Aurora store, the first day of business brought in a steady stream of traffic. ... Full story

Elgin Children’s Chorus to sing Celtic melodies

Celebrating 25 years of teaching life through song, the Elgin Children’s Chorus and acclaimed Celtic singer/songwriters Jenne Lennon, a chorus alumna, and Liz Madden will present “Emerald Voices” at 3 p.m. Sunday, March 13, at the Elgin Community College Arts Center, 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin. ... Full story

Gourmet ice cream comes to St. Charles

Kim Elam loves ice cream, all kinds, all flavors. Her love of the gooey dessert began when she was a youngster. ... Full story

First State Bank purchase ends Valley Community Bank troubles

The purchase of Valley Community Bank late last month wasn’t the first time First State Bank of Mendota had done business in the Fox Valley. ... Full story

Late payment on the way to St. Charles

Officials for the St. Charles Countryside Fire Protection District say they have no intention of stiffing the city for $450,000 owed. ... Full story

Batavia candidates talk backyard chickens, budget

All three candidates running for the open seat in the 4th Ward on the Batavia City Council said they would support residents raising chickens in their backyards if the practice was carefully monitored. ... Full story

Batavia planners reject one senior complex proposal, approve another

Iowa-based Equity Growth Group on Wednesday moved another step closer in its plans to build a 80-unit affordable senior housing complex on South Drive on 4.6 acres just southeast of the new Dreyer Medical Clinic. ... Full story

New hope or artificial low? Local foreclosures drop dramatically in February

The rate of foreclosures in the area dropped dramatically in February, but experts warned that the troubled housing market may not be turning around just yet, according to data released today by Irvine, Calif.-based RealtyTrac. ... Full story

New Fox Valley Habitat store preps for opening

In just days or so, the new Fox Valley Habitat for Humanity ReStore will open, and store manager Kathleen Potts knows exactly how she’s feeling. ... Full story

Elgin bid rule change moves along

The city council agreed that “responsible bidder” language should be added to its procurement ordinance at its committee of the whole session Wednesday. ... Full story

U46 to begin ‘racial equity’ program

As a federal court in Chicago was hearing a lawsuit about alleged racial bias in setting attendance boundaries in School District U46, the district’s board of education moved this week to set up a “racial equity” program to ensure that all students are treated equally. ... Full story

ECC candidates discuss unions, college funding

With Elgin Community College teacher contract negotiations going to a mediator, questions regarding those contracts and education funding for ECC were among the top issues raised Wednesday at a board candidates forum. ... Full story

Rush: Fun still comes at a cost

The Geneva Chamber of Commerce, a nonprofit organization, is made up of business, industry professionals and individuals that support an ongoing program of economic and community development. ... Full story

Death penalty abolition will have impact

Kane County State’s Attorney Joe McMahon doesn’t think prosecuting murders will get any easier now that he no longer can seek the death penalty. ... Full story

ST. CHARLES ST. PATRICK'S PARADE TO BE DEDICATED TO U.S. TROOPS

This year's St. Patrick's Parade in St. Charles will be dedicated to U.S. military service people currently serving worldwide, as well as returning troops and veterans. All branches of the armed forces will be represented by personnel and veterans, who are served by Fox Valley Troop Support (FVTS). The colorguard will be presented by the St. Charles VFW and American Legion. (free registration required) ... Full story

Aurora accepts state grant for downtown park

Five months after Gov. Pat Quinn announced an $8 million grant for the music garden at Aurora’s proposed RiverEdge Park, the city council approved a plan detailing how the grant will be received. ... Full story

New Fox Valley Habitat store preps for opening

In just days or so, the new Fox Valley Habitat for Humanity ReStore will open, and store manager Kathleen Potts knows exactly how she’s feeling. ... Full story

St. Paddy's 5K gets celebration off and running

Fans of Naperville's St. Patrick's Day Parade can get off to a running start this year. ... Full story

Kane County Board to begin redistricting process

Kane County Board members will soon begin the process of redistricting the board to coincide with new U.S. Census population figures. ... Full story

St. Charles school board sets date to vote on merger plan

The St. Charles school board is expected to vote on the plan to restructure two elementary schools on March 17. ... Full story

First State Bank purchase ends Valley Community Bank troubles

The purchase of Valley Community Bank late last month wasn’t the first time First State Bank of Mendota had done business in the Fox Valley. ... Full story

Batavia residents speak out for, against backyard chickens

Debbie Damon believes that chickens should be kept on the farm, not in her neighborhood. “We don’t need chickens in this city,” Damon told aldermen at Tuesday’s City Services Committee meeting. “I think we should go back and look at why it was restricted in the first place.” ... Full story

Hultgren’s office center of Planned Parenthood funding dispute

U.S. Rep. Randy Hultgren’s new offices were baptized with protest Monday afternoon, as dueling Planned Parenthood rallies stopped around the corner from his new digs. ... Full story

State slates Thursday meeting about Route 34 rail crossing

The Illinois Department of Transportation will host a public meeting Thursday to discuss proposed improvements to the Route 34 crossing at the EJ&E Railroad. ... Full story

Expert: Some of U46’s mobiles were ‘not viable’

Many of the mobile classrooms at Elgin School District U46 schools had a fresh coat of red paint on them when Edward Kazanjian visited them in December 2008. But that was like “putting lipstick on a pig,” Kazanjian said. ... Full story

U46 will lay off 180,including 130 teachers

School District U46 is expected to see far fewer teacher and staff layoffs this spring than last, thanks to improving finances and slightly bigger class sizes in the upper grades next fall. ... Full story

Big drop in kids’ ear infections

Ear infections, a scourge that has left countless tots screaming through the night, have fallen dramatically, and some researchers suggest a decline in smoking by parents might be part of the reason. ... Full story

Geneva candidates talk money at forum

The way taxpayer money is spent in Geneva received attention Sunday as candidates for the city council and school board participated in a forum sponsored by the League of Women Voters of Central Kane County. ... Full story

Batavia City Council appoints city attorney

The Batavia City Council on Monday appointed a new city attorney after accepting the resignation of longtime city attorney John Noble because of health reasons. ... Full story

Parents show support for Davis-Richmond plan

Parent after parent Monday night told the St. Charles school board they support change at Davis and Richmond elementary schools. ... Full story

Planned Parenthood funding draws both sides at Geneva rally

Those for and against federal funding for Planned Parenthood on Monday rallied outside U.S. Rep. Randy Hultgren’s office in Geneva. ... Full story

Weather observers wanted in Kane Co.

A statewide organization is on the lookout for volunteer weather observers in Kane County. ... Full story

North Aurora considers seeking grant for bike path extension

The Village Board is ready to approve a grant request for a bike path extension project, despite concerns that the project as designed could create a traffic hazard for cyclists and pedestrians using the path to cross Randall Road. ... Full story

North Aurora candidates discuss bettering business

In the year-and-a-half Christopher Sparks has lived in North Aurora, he has noticed the empty buildings that once housed businesses, some in downtown and some on the west side. ... Full story

Weather, poor economy driving need for blood donations

Last month’s blizzard hit Heartland Blood Centers hard. ... Full story

Geneva city council, school board candidates talk budgets at forum

The way taxpayer money is spent in Geneva received attention Sunday as candidates for the city council and school board participated in a forum sponsored by the League of Women Voters of Central Kane County. ... Full story

N. Aurora Village Hall project ready for bids

The Village Board is expected to go out for bids Monday on a proposed $1 million renovation of Village Hall. ... Full story

Batavia residents object to proposed senior housing complex

Resident Cheryl Deisz doesn’t want to live next to a three-story senior housing complex. Deisz and her neighbors on Thursday voiced their objections to plans of Iowa-based Equity Growth Group to build a 80-unit affordable senior housing complex on South Drive on 4.6 acres just southeast of the new Dreyer Medical Clinic. ... Full story