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Living In and Visiting Geneva
Nestled in the heart of the Fox Valley and located 40 miles west of Chicago, this safe, close-knit community works continually to make Geneva an even better place to live with involvement in city government, schools, churches and other community projects. (free registration required) ... Full story
DOBIE MAXWELL
Zanies Comedy Club - April 29 & 30 ... Full story
Bowl with your favorite Dist. 300 teacher
Parents, students and staff of Community Unit District 300 can celebrate their favorite teachers during District 300 Educator Appreciation Week, May 2-5, by enjoying discounted bowling and entertainment at Brunswick Zone XL on Randall Road in Algonquin. ... Full story
Aurora Hispanic heritage fest celebrates ‘los Ninos’
At this year’s El Dia de los Ninos festival, it’s all about reading. ... Full story
GreenTown eyes healthier Elgin
By looking at one hypothetical child’s annual checkup, Dr. Richard Jackson can illustrate what is wrong with how communities are planned. ... Full story
Electronics recycling resumes
Aurora has resumed its electronics recycling program, providing a safe and free way to safely dispose of unwanted electronic devices. ... Full story
Kane’s new traffic courtroom ready to open Monday
Kane County will open it’s newest courtroom Monday. Most Kane County traffic cases not from the Aurora or Elgin areas will be heard in the new courtroom at 530 S. Randall Road in St. Charles, at the north end of the Kane County Circuit Clerk’s building. ... Full story
Paramount inviting local actors to try out for four big musicals
They’ve sold thousands of tickets, now all they need is a few hundred actors to fill the show. When Aurora’s Paramount Theater announced a four-show Broadway schedule, they hinted there were would be opportunities for local talent to be part of the shows. ... Full story
Southbound Randall to close Monday at I-88 into Aurora
Drivers heading south on Randall Road into Aurora may want to look for another route. ... Full story
New ad director starts at Kane County Chronicle
The Kane County Chronicle has a new advertising director. ... Full story
District 303 recommends iPad for Richmond students
Educators at Richmond Intermediate School recently explored the capabilities of three, one-to-one computing devices to determine which will be best for their third-, fourth- and fifth-graders next year. ... Full story
Batavia creating downtown vision
Batavia Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Roger Breisch liked the view of downtown Batavia he saw laid out on several poster boards Thursday in the City Council’s chambers. ... Full story
Elgin play looks at Kristallnact
The events of Sept. 11, 2001 caused people to consider many things; Christopher Bibby, author of the play “Broken Glass,” was no different. ... Full story
No raises for more Elgin employees
More Elgin employees have agreed to stagnant wages while protecting themselves against layoffs for the rest of 2011 in the latest labor contract approval. ... Full story
Route 59, I-88 interchange could have revolutionary design
Mary Wahlbeck knows a little about the traffic mess at Route 59 and Interstate 88. ... Full story
Companies: Jobs open for those qualified
Despite the nation’s economic woes, there still are jobs that need to be filled — but they lack people suited to fill them, experts say. ... Full story
Kane redistricting map available online
The proposed map for a slightly smaller, 24-district Kane County Board map now is available online. ... Full story
Kaptain sworn in as Elgin mayor
Dave Kaptain took the helm of the city council Wednesday evening as he was sworn in as Elgin’s mayor. ... Full story
Batavia Loyalty Day Parade set for Sunday
“We support 10 years of Operation Enduring Freedom” is this year’s 37th Annual Batavia VFW Post 1197 Loyalty Day Parade theme. The Official Batavia VFW Parade Float will host the Grand Marshal – soldiers (and/or their families) serving or who have served during Operation Enduring Freedom. ... Full story
Loyalty Day Parade to cause detours
Batavia motorists should be aware of a number of road detours and temporary traffic interruptions because of Sunday’s Batavia Loyalty Day Parade. ... Full story
County getting ready for civil unions
In preparation for a new law making civil unions legal for gay and lesbian couples, Kane County will have civil union licenses available when the law goes into effect June 1, officials said. ... Full story
Batavia settles suit against police officers
The city of Batavia has agreed to pay $25,880 to a man who accused Batavia police of punching him in the face during a 2008 arrest on alcohol-related charges. ... Full story
Foreclosure activity up in Tri-Cities
After ebbing late last year, the foreclosure rate in the Tri-Cities and surrounding communities appeared to accelerate again in the first three months of this year. ... Full story
Gilbert's got jokes: Gottfried coming to St. Charles
The unique voice and comedic delivery of Gilbert Gottfried will be featured at Zanies Comedy Night Club next month. ... Full story
U46 observatory eyes new programs, visitors
When the Elgin School District U46 observatory and planetarium celebrated its 100th birthday last year, more than 500 people turned out for the party. ... Full story
Elgin’s BMX Race for Life marking its 30th year
Local BMX riders will be racing to raise money Saturday for finding a cure for a disease that took one of their own 30 years ago. ... Full story
Overhaul of housing agency moves ahead; charges seen
Criminal charges are likely part of the fallout of federal audits that discovered managerial wrongdoings at the DuPage Housing Authority. But the low-income housing assistance agency is on the mend, its temporary director said. ... Full story
Historical Society offers antiques appraisal
Is it treasure or just junk? ... Full story
Sculpture knocked over in downtown Batavia
The “Self Made Man” bronze sculpture has been a reminder of life’s challenges for art admirers in downtown Batavia for 15 years. ... Full story
Schock looks back on 12 years as mayor in Elgin
After 18 years on the Elgin City Council, first as a councilman and the past 12 as mayor, Ed Schock will relinquish his seat to new Mayor Dave Kaptain today. ... Full story
Aurora preparing for hydrant flushing
Aurora residents are being urged to avoid washing their clothes between 8 a.m. and noon Mondays through Thursdays in May and June as the fire department tests fire hydrants throughout the city. ... Full story
Health officials seek new animal control director, assistant director
The Kane County Health Department is seeking to find both a new animal control director and to have the moratorium on hiring lifted to hire an assistant director for environmental health. ... Full story
Sheriff: Budget adjustment, roll call 'unnecessary'
So what’s seven minutes a day, five days a week for seven months worth? ... Full story
Fox River and Countryside fire district set to begin operations Sunday
A group of men and women charged with keeping residents of the Fox River and Countryside Fire/Rescue District safe spent Tuesday afternoon familiarizing themselves with a 2,000-gallon tanker. The training, which included repacking a hose and filling a portable tank, is part of Capt. Gary Klein’s weeklong plan to prepare the emergency personnel for Sunday, the district’s first day of operation. ... Full story
Batavia residents to pay less in school taxes
Most residents should pay less in taxes to the Batavia School District this year. ... Full story
The 18th Annual Rolling Down the River Business-to-Business Expo on April 27, 2011
The 18th Annual Rolling Down the River Business-to-Business Expo will be held on Wednesday, April 27, 2011 at the Pheasant Run Resort Mega Center at 4051 E. Main Street in St. Charles. Exhibits are open to the public from 12 noon to 6 pm. ... Full story
Field of Dreams Horse Rescue & Adoption needs your help for their 3rd Annual Garage Sale
Are you moving? Downsizing? Or have you just had a garage sale, and looking to get rid of those unneeded items? ... Full story
Renovation of North Aurora Village Hall moving ahead
A $1.6 million renovation of North Aurora Village Hall will move forward, even though one village trustee voiced concerns about the project's cost. ... Full story
Fire district in ‘crunch time’ as deadline nears
Trustees of the Fox River and Countryside Fire/Rescue District had little business to tend to during their monthly meeting Monday, just six days before the district is to begin operating its own stations. ... Full story
District 304 sues former employee
Geneva School District 304 and two officials are suing a former employee for taping their meetings despite the employee being told not to, causing an atmosphere of “distrust and fear” at the administrative office, according to the lawsuit. ... Full story
St. Charles police propose new fees
The St. Charles Police Department is giving residents three more reasons to avoid trouble. ... Full story
Severe Weather Seminar headed to Fermilab
Tom Skilling's Fermilab/WGN-TV Tornado and Severe Weather Seminar is set for two sessions on Saturday. Sessions start at noon and at 6 p.m. at Fermilab. ... Full story
Restaurant Review: Isacco Kitchen
After several recommendations, and hearing the love story journey that brought Italian-born Chef Isacco Vitali to open his restaurant in St. Charles, I felt somewhat obligated to choose Isacco Kitchen for my first restaurant review. ... Full story
Elgin megachurch hires Hollywood director, will start making feature films about issues of faith
In 2002, members of a megachurch in Albany, Ga., felt that God was calling them to make a movie. ... Full story
Elgin events to keep folks on run next few months
Fourth of July fireworks and the Fox Fire Fest are but smoky memories at this point. But the city of Elgin still has what it hopes is a hot plateful of spring and summer events this year, including a smattering of new offerings. ... Full story
Former India president addresses youth at Bartlett conference
Over the past decade, he has met an estimated 11 million youth in India. And on Sunday, the former president of India shared his insights during “Today’s Youth, Tomorrow’s Leaders,” hosted at BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir temple complex in Bartlett. ... Full story
Elgin to give major treatment to Airlite water plant
By the end of April, the Airlite Water Treatment Plant on the city’s west side probably won’t be treating water anymore. ... Full story
Batavia building makes history
The historic Campana building in Batavia will be featured in the latest issue of Historic Illinois, a magazine published six times a year by the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency. ... Full story
Aurorans planning Green Fest for June
Though St. Patrick’s Day will be long past, Aurora will be thinking green in early June. ... Full story
Proposed County Board District 5 map unveiled in Naperville
Naperville residents got a glimpse Wednesday night at a proposed new DuPage County Board map for District 5, which would include almost all of Naperville. ... Full story
NapervilleWorks connects special needs workers to jobs
Sometimes the prefix overshadows the word. Take “disability,” for example. Those who advocate for people with physical and intellectual challenges often have to take extra steps to spotlight the can-do base of the term. ... Full story
Local church hosts 5K to fight sex trafficking
Making Waves, a social justice task force of The Well, a Geneva church, is taking on the issue of sexual slavery and forced labor. ... Full story
St. Charles Park District wins aquatic safety award
The St. Charles Park District's aquatic program has been awarded the Gold International Aquatic Safety Award. ... Full story
‘Bedroom Farce' opens at ECC
If you ask Robert Hines what his role is at Elgin Community College, he will always say he's a teacher first and a director second. ... Full story
Very special prom
Prom is one of those defining high school experiences you remember — and in some cases, regret — for years after graduation. ... Full story
Kane panel approves civil union license fees
With June 1 marking the first official day that the state of Illinois recognizes civil unions, Kane County Clerk Jack Cunningham is recommending setting the civil union license fee to match the current marriage license fee. ... Full story
East Dundee lets flea market stay open
The village board has agreed to let a popular local flea market continue operating for the rest of the year. ... Full story
Elgin prepares for threat of flooding
With rain in the National Weather Service forecast for a good portion of the next seven days, Elgin’s Office of Emergency Management recommends that residents living in flood-prone areas be prepared for the possibility of evacuation. ... Full story
Proposed County Board District 5 map unveiled in Naperville
Naperville residents got a glimpse Wednesday night at a proposed new DuPage County Board map for District 5, which would include almost all of Naperville. ... Full story
North Aurora looking at impact fees to get subdivisions finished
Trustees are debating whether it would be more fair to continue rolling back building impact fees for all developers building homes in the village, or just for those developers of existing subdivisions. ... Full story
Aurora, Kane Co. educators give reform bill high marks
Educators and education reformers are waiting anxiously this week. ... Full story
Kane County draft redistrict map spurs questions
A draft map of 24 Kane County districts instead of 26 would have board members Jeanette Mihalec, D-Elgin, vying with Catherine Hurlbut, R-Elgin. ... Full story
‘Three Cups of Tea’ canceled at ECC
A return engagement of the stage adaptation of “The Kite Runner” will replace the previously announced “Three Cups of Tea” as a fundraising event at Elgin Community College at 2 p.m. May 1 in the Blizzard Theatre, 1700 Spartan Drive in Elgin. The change in productions is the result of current concerns regarding Greg Mortenson, co-author of “Three Cups of Tea,” the book that inspired the fundraiser. ... Full story
Easter events planned at Elgin area churches, parks
Grace Evangelical Lutheran Church, 1800 Bowes Road, Elgin, will host a neighborhood Easter egg hunt featuring more than 5,000 eggs at 1 p.m. Saturday at the church. The egg hunt is free and is for children ages 12 and under. ... Full story
S. Elgin hikes utility taxes, OKs budget
The 2011-12 budget approved by the village board this week adds additional utility and telecommunications taxes to residents’ bills to help cover ongoing budget deficits. ... Full story
Advocates rally in Batavia for Fox Valley’s disabled
On the streets of downtown Batavia Wednesday morning, families, consumers and advocates of community-based social services from around the Fox Valley marched, waved signs and chanted to draw public attention to steep cuts included in Gov. Pat Quinn’s 2012 budget. ... Full story
Jobless rate drops in Fox Valley, state
The March unemployment rate dropped in the Fox Valley and in every Illinois metropolitan area for a record seventh consecutive month. ... Full story
Aurora elementary school may sign up for uniforms
Elvira Del Toro’s 5-year-old daughter wears a happy smile and stylish clothes with a little sparkle on her pink baseball cap and hoodie. ... Full story
Aurora makes top 100 in magazine’s most-loved cities
Residents who posted Aurora’s praises on Reader’s Digest’s website earned the city a $1,000 check from the magazine and a visit from the Reader’s Digest RV Wednesday. ... Full story
Kane County eyes policy for car recharge facility
Imagine Kane County dotted with electric charging stations, where the public could fill up vehicles with electricity at a fraction of the cost of gas. ... Full story
Batavia Community Garden event set Saturday
A day of education and community gardening is set from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at the Batavia Community Garden at the northwest corner of Main Street and Water Street. ... Full story
Elburn set to OK $4.45 million budget
While it will spend a little more for day-to-day operations, the village expects to spend quite a bit less this year than it did last year. ... Full story
East Dundee lets flea market stay open
The village board has agreed to let a popular local flea market continue operating for the rest of the year. ... Full story
North Aurora hopes planting program will bloom again
The village is seeking suggestions and donations to help revive the street beautification and the parkway tree replacement programs. ... Full story
Hat required, pajamas optional at royal wedding viewing party in Naperville
Living on this side of the pond in the former colonies, you — like me — probably have not received an invitation to the royal wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton later this month. ... Full story
New theater, new play, new rules at Naperville Central
Sometimes it seems like destiny, you know? ... Full story
Batavia parks inflate the budget
Budgeting for major park improvements, including fixing Harold Hall Quarry Beach, will inflate the Batavia Park District’s proposed 2011-12 budget substantially over this year’s. ... Full story
Aurora debates butcher's request to set up shop, slaughter poultry
At first, Fermin Benitez’s business plan reads like any other — hours of business, delivery methods, target market. ... Full story
Board member Emma chosen to lead Geneva History Center
The Geneva History Center Board of Directors unanimously voted to retain Terry Emma as the new executive director of the Geneva History Center. ... Full story
'Emerging' educators learn the ropes through St. Charles program
Within the next five years, St. Charles School District 303 expects 25 percent of its administrators – including an assistant superintendent, executive director, principal and assistant principal – to retire. ... Full story
Producers Chemical moving from Batavia to Sugar Grove
A company that has grown a successful chemical distribution business in Batavia will soon make its new home in the village of Sugar Grove. ... Full story
Geneva approves new budget
The city council this week approved a $71.8 million budget for 2011-12, a $7.5 million increase over the current year’s projected $64.3 million spending plan. ... Full story
Greensburg mayor to share town’s ‘green’ tale at Elgin conference
The residents of Greensburg, Kan., turned the aftermath of a terrible tornado that devastated their town four years ago into an opportunity to rebuild as a model of environmental efficiency. ... Full story
Batavia schools rethink charging rent to nonprofits
The School District will reconsider a policy that would charge local nonprofit youth groups to use space in Batavia’s schools. ... Full story
Donations pouring in for huge Barn Sale to benefit St. Peter’s Church in Geneva.
The St. Peter’s Barn Sale is so large, organizers refer to it as the world’s biggest garage sale. ... Full story
At state remap hearing, Aurora asks to be its own district
It took Naperville cartographer Christopher Devane about two weeks — working on and off at home — to redraw Illinois’ legislative districts. Using county and township borders, he mapped out his own plan for the state, hand coloring the districts green, purple, orange and gray. ... Full story
Secret Service agents visit Naperville to discuss JFK’s death
When conspiracy theories started to run rampant in the months and years after the assassination of former President John F. Kennedy, the Secret Service agents who protected him made very few statements about them. ... Full story
American English to perform at ECC
Beatles’ tribute band American English returns to Elgin Community College Saturday, April 23, with a special treat — cut-for-cut performances of the classic albums “Revolver” and “Rubber Soul.” ... Full story
Smaller budget for St. Charles, but residents still will pay more
St. Charles officials Monday night locked in a new budget that reflects several years of cutting costs but also finds the need for residents to give the city more money to balance it. ... Full story
St. Charles School District 303 lawsuit still about jurisdiction
The attorneys trying to prevent St. Charles School District 303 from restructuring two schools have about two weeks to amend their complaint as they try to return the case to state court. ... Full story
St. Charles aldermen support downtown partnership's funding request
St. Charles aldermen Monday night unanimously recommended approval for the Downtown St. Charles Partnership’s funding request of $240,000. ... Full story
St. Charles welcomes home veteran, approves budget
Army Spc. Tom Fullmer received a standing ovation Monday night as St. Charles Mayor Don DeWitte presented him with a proclamation in recognition of his service. ... Full story
Geneva bed & breakfast gets approval
After continuing arguments about a special use to allow a bed and breakfast near Geneva’s downtown Monday, aldermen voted 6-4 in favor. ... Full story
Chef's Corner: SERENA PERDUE Chef/Niche Restaurant
Born and raised in Geneva, Illinois, Serena Teipel Perdue is the newest addition to the Niche family. (free registration required) ... Full story
Couponing Moms in the Naperville Area: Meet The Local Lister
When you consider the fact that www.thelocallister.com has only been live since January of this year, it's pretty remarkable to find over 120 local free coupons. When I say local, I mean businesses right in our backyard; Naperville, Plainfield, Aurora and Downers Grove. ... Full story
April 29 Concert at The Arcada to Benefit Dustin Villarreal Memorial Scholarship Fund
Dustin Villarreal was just 15 years old when he died, a freshman at Geneva High School and talented, up-and-coming member of the frosh football squad. ... Full story
Boxing workout scores weight-loss knockout
Boxing is a great tool for cardio conditioning and muscle toning. It’s fun, interactive, challenging and best of all — it gets results! ... Full story
Seeing is believing for Fittest Losers
Significant weight loss is a long, drawn-out process. Every day is a struggle to do the right thing, and sometimes it is difficult to see the positive effects. ... Full story
Elgin uses towing as deterrent and 'cash cow'
On March 14, 18-year-old David Liberato was driving in Elgin with a suspended license. He came to a complete stop at an intersection, then signaled to turn left. Once he made the turn, an Elgin police officer pulled him over for failing to signal 100 feet before the intersection. ... Full story
Elgin-area high schoolers receive dresses via community donations
A line of more than 300 eager girls stretched out the door of the YWCA Elgin and down the block Saturday morning for the seventh annual Cinderella’s Closet event that connects area high schoolers with prom dresses donated by the community. ... Full story
Remap hearing in Elgin will let voices be heard
Voters will have a chance to be heard on Illinois redistricting today, although it’s still unclear whether their voice will make a difference. ... Full story
Paddlesports retailer Paddle and Trail to open near downtown Aurora
Charlie Zine and Gary Mechanic are so excited about opening a boat and bike shop in Aurora that they are practically jumping up and down. The two outdoor enthusiasts are both heavily involved in the local kayak and canoe scene. In other words, they are paddlers. ... Full story
Civil War is focus of new Aurora museum exhibit
As sentimental ballads played across strings of Allison Zabelin’s violin, living historian Maryll Deuchler Kleibring spoke of the hardships of living during the American Civil War. ... Full story
Delnor draws hundreds to Ladies Day Out
For the fourth consecutive year, women from the Tri-Cities and beyond took a break from their every day lives to laugh, learn and relax a little, as they took advantage of the Ladies Day Out. ... Full story
Hundreds march for babies in St. Charles
As cold winds whipped through the crowd gathered at Pottawatomie Park Sunday morning, 6-year-old Caiden Kroph sat bundled in his stroller, which bore this handwritten message: "My mom and my aunt walk each year for me!" ... Full story
Kane County launches revamped website
Citing reasons of better transparency and easier access to information, Kane County has launched a new website. ... Full story
Bed and breakfast battle gears up for final vote
Linda Lydon proposes a five-bedroom bed and breakfast near Geneva’s downtown, in an historic 1840s house at 109 Peyton St. ... Full story
Strike averted at Elgin Community College
A strike at Elgin Community College was averted early Thursday after the faculty union and board of trustees reached a tentative agreement for a new contract. ... Full story
Naperville joins Taylor’s Gift’s crusade to promote organ donation
Jarret Payton to appear at Naperville fundraiser ... Full story
East to announce Fultz’s status for School Board
The East Aurora School District expects to make an announcement Wednesday on the status of Mary Fultz, who was elected to the School Board last week. ... Full story
Business upates: ‘Laughing Your Way to Success’
“Turning Knowledge into Action” is offered to demonstrate the impact that Lee Asher will have on sales and management teams’ mindset, focus and productivity. ... Full story
Tea Party sets rally Friday in Geneva
The Kane County Taxpayer Tea Party is planning a rally for Friday afternoon in downtown Geneva. ... Full story
Aurora planning committee OKs specialty butcher shop
After debating the issue at three meetings, the City Council Planning and Development Committee has voted to recommend approval of a specialty butcher shop at 629 S. River St. ... Full story
Bush talk earns applause and a portrait
It’s not your typical presidential portrait: The former president leans against a fence post, wearing a button-down denim shirt and a wide smile. There’s no suit, no stiff pose, no American flag in the background. ... Full story
Elgin City Council delays vote on vendor agreement to run Bowes Creek Country Club restaurant
The city council this week tabled until April 27 consideration of a $420,000 service agreement to run Porter’s Pub at Bowes Creek Country Club. ... Full story
Bed and breakfast in Geneva closer to approval
A proposed bed and breakfast at 109 Peyton St., on the northwest corner of Peyton and North First streets, is a step closer to reality after Mayor Kevin Burns cast a tie-breaking vote at a committee of the whole meeting this week. ... Full story
District 304 eyes $52.7M education fund budget
Geneva School District 304 officials proposed a $52.7 million education fund spending plan for the 2011-12 school year, an increase of $2.1 million or 4.24 percent over the current year’s budget. ... Full story
Suburban senator looks to consolidate local governments
Sen. Terry Link’s plan to reduce Illinois’ nation-leading 6,994 local units of government began moving in earnest Wednesday. ... Full story
Kane board split on size cut
When Kane County Board Chairman Karen McConnaughay told board members the redistricting process would be complicated and political, it was no exaggeration. If anything, it may have been more of an understatement. ... Full story
Aurora math-science school passes Senate
Aurora may get its math and science school after all. ... Full story
Chief judge presents checks to local agencies
Displaying a couple of the large, poster-sized checks typically used for ceremonial purposes, Chief Judge F. Keith Brown smiled Tuesday as he prepared to hand them to local agencies. ... Full story
Geneva dismisses 24 teachers
Geneva school officials approved the dismissal of 24 nontenured teachers Monday, for the 2011-12 school year. ... Full story
St. Charles backs tax deals to draw GMC, Sears
The city could soon get back a large portion of the sales tax revenue it lost when GMC closed its automobile dealership on Main Street and the revenue it will lose when Sears closes its store at Charlestowne Mall. ... Full story
St. Charles' downtown vision
Seeing high school couples pose near the fountains in the 1st Street Plaza during homecoming season last fall indicated to St. Charles Mayor Don DeWitte that the community views the relatively new spot as a site worth visiting. ... Full story
Batavia School Board votes to reduce number of graduation credits
The Batavia School Board on Tuesday unanimously approved 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
Kane County Board backs reducing its size
Big changes will be coming to the Kane County Board in the coming years. ... Full story
Ecuadorian folk music coming to AU
Music of the Pueblo, the folk tradition of the Andes mountains in Ecuador, will be performed by Andes Manta, a quartet of brothers, at Aurora University on Wednesday, April 13. ... Full story
D300 staffers nominated for top educator award
Community Unit District 300’s longtime leader and an enterprising staff member at one of the district’s newest schools are among the nominees for the Kane County Educator of the Year Awards. ... Full story
Barbara Quatroke, Owner of Q’s Cabinet Shoppe
Chris Hodge, 30, from North Aurora, smiled as he recalled G.I. Joe toys and how he had created an imaginary world. ... Full story
Kane shelter takes pet adoption seriously
With nearly 500 animals taken in last year, Kane County Animal Control officials say they take adoption of their charges seriously and carry out a detailed procedure before the four-legged — and sometimes two-legged — orphans go to homes as pets. ... Full story
Experts arrest TV myths about how to solve crimes
Thanks to television shows including “Criminal Minds” and all the variations of “CSI” — not to mention movies dating back at least as far as 1991 and “The Silence of the Lambs” — investigating crime has never seemed sexier. ... Full story
Elgin tea ceremony to aid post-quake Japan
Carin Manbeck said she was devastated to see Japan get hit with the earthquake and tsunami on March 11. ... Full story
Recent discovery of unexpected data gives scientists at Fermilab more research
Scientists will have to do more research before they understand the nature of a recent discovery made at the Collider Detector at Fermilab. ... Full story
Delnor gives women a day out
Delnor Hospital understands women take on many roles, such as mother, wife and businesswoman. ... Full story
Geneva Film Festival an international affair
This week’s Geneva Film Festival truly will be an international affair. ... Full story
West grads promote alumna’s art through new book
Why do people today remember actors’ scenes from movies that were made 60 years ago? The reason is they continue to be played repeatedly on TV and DVD players. ... Full story
Removal of trees leaves Elgin homeowners livid
If someone had told Mary Ann Gunderson beforehand that Kane County was going to remove five trees and other landscape plantings from the berm separating her Columbine Drive home from Bowes Road, she wouldn’t have been happy about it. ... Full story
People line up to look for work at ECC jobs fair
After being out of work for two years, Jim Werner of Algonquin admits it’s very difficult to stay upbeat about his job search. ... Full story
Marmion Academy stages ‘South Pacific'
It isn't every day that students in a high school play are visited by a Broadway actor. ... Full story
Walk supports Naperville’s ADOPT pet shelter
Moms and dads bring their children; singles bring their friends. ... Full story
D303 suit moves to federal court
The lawsuit between St. Charles Unit District 303 and 13 families trying to stop a plan to turn two schools into grade-level centers is now headed to federal court, at least for now. ... Full story
Project Sticker Shock set for April 15 in St. Charles
Students from St. Charles North and East high schools will team up with members of the St. Charles Police Department on April 15 to remind adults about the consequences of providing alcohol to minors. ... Full story
Kane County eyes $40 dog park fee
A trial balloon to charge $40 per dog for county residents to use Kane County’s off-leash dog parks might burst before it gets to a final vote if some commissioners have their way. ... Full story
McConnaughay talks transportation, more in Batavia
Finding people willing to take a bus to get around in Kane County is difficult, Kane County Board Chairman Karen McConnaughay said Thursday morning at an Eggs and Issues event in Batavia. ... Full story
New eateries reshaping the dining scene in St. Charles
Karen and Noe Ortiz, owners of Mel’s Diner in Geneva and Campton Hills, didn’t have a specific location in mind for their next venture, a Mexican restaurant. ... Full story
Aurora YWCA ‘thriving’ in new space
Aurora YWCA moves to new home in Fred Rodgers Community Center to bring its message of racial justice, empowerment closer to the people ... Full story
ECC faculty to file strike notice
Things seemed to be improving in talks between the Elgin Community College board and ECC’s faculty union. ... Full story
Gershwin's iconic sound featured at ESO concerts
From April 15-17, the Elgin Symphony Orchestra, in collaboration with the Elgin Choral Union, explores Gershwin’s iconic “Rhapsody in Blue” and the poignant “Porgy and Bess.” Stephen Squires leads the ESO in this program as he celebrates his 20th season as the ESO’s associate conductor. Concerts are at 1:30 p.m. April 15, 8 p.m. April 16 and 3:30 p.m. April 17. All concerts will take place at Elgin’s Hemmens Theatre, 45 Symphony Way in Elgin. ... Full story
Fox Valley Rep pairs with Fox Valley Concert Band
Fox Valley Repertory recently announced a new partnership with the Fox Valley Concert Band that will culminate in two Memorial Day performances called “Letters Home: A Memorial Day Remembrance,” a dedication to America’s soldiers, past and present on May 28-29 at the Pheasant Run Resort Mainstage, 4051 E. Main St. in St. Charles. ... Full story
St. Charles Singers to present 'In Sweet Harmony'
The St. Charles Singers, an international concert and recording ensemble, will premiere an uplifting new choral work by young Chicago composer and singer Nathaniel Adams as part of its “In Sweet Harmony” concerts this month in St. Charles and Wheaton. ... Full story
ECC production a spin on Hitchcock classic, and so’s the dinner menu
This is a dinner that Alfred Hitchcock would die for. ... Full story
Senior Services fetes ‘everybody’s birthday’ April 29
Everybody gets to have a birthday party on April 29. ... Full story
Elgin mayoral foes reflect on election results
Reflecting on Tuesday’s election, one thing stood out Wednesday morning to both Mayor-elect Dave Kaptain and outgoing incumbent Ed Schock: the surprisingly low voter turnout. ... Full story
No recounts sought, so far, in St. Charles races
A candidate in one of three close St. Charles city council races said Wednesday he is waiting a few days before deciding to ask for a recount. ... Full story
Fox Valley mayors headed toward greater harmony?
Perhaps it was the post election high, but there seemed to be love in the air this morning as the newly minted mayors in the central Fox Valley gathered for a group portrait. ... Full story
Kaptain stops Schock bid for 4th term as Elgin mayor
Veteran City Councilman Dave Kaptain unseated longtime Mayor Ed Schock Tuesday night. ... Full story
Elgin mayoral foes reflect on election results
Reflecting on Tuesday’s election, one thing stood out Wednesday morning to both Mayor-elect Dave Kaptain and outgoing incumbent Ed Schock: the surprisingly low voter turnout. ... Full story
Voter turnout bottoms out in Tuesday’s election
The West Aurora School Board has plenty of responsibility. Like other school boards, its seven members help decide which books are going to be used in classrooms. ... Full story
Maps, deadline are added issues in Kane redistricting
The Kane County Board will have to deal with more redistricting issues than just reducing the number of board members. ... Full story
Businesses close, open, expand in Geneva
Geneva has lost 19 businesses since November, according to the city’s monthly business reports, but gained 13 new ones with more on the horizon, officials said. ... Full story
Kilburg wins Geneva's 3rd Ward; Brown re-elected
Incumbent Charles Brown won his seventh term as 1st Ward alderman in Geneva, while former school board member Dean Kilburg won the 3rd Ward in unofficial results. ... Full story
Absentee, provisional ballots likely won't change STC council results
The St. Charles aldermanic races that were too close to call Tuesday night likely won't be affected by outstanding absentee and provisional ballots, Kane County Clerk Jack Cunningham said Wednesday afternoon. ... Full story
$500K gifts accepted for Burgess Field
Geneva school officials voted to accept a $450,000 anonymous gift, as well as nearly $45,000 from fundraisers, to pay for a new synthetic turf for Burgess field. ... Full story
Gresk breezes to second term as Wheaton mayor
Wheaton Mayor Michael Gresk was elected to a second term Tuesday night. ... Full story
Kaptain claims victory as Elgin mayor
It is the end of an era for Elgin. David Kaptain will be the city’s new mayor after unseating 12-year incumbent Ed Schock. With 97 percent of precincts reporting, Kaptain claimed victory with 3,435 votes to Schock’s 3,289. ... Full story
Volunteers join forces to spruce up Aurora homes
Ginger Ingram spent her Saturday morning trying to keep up with the volunteers who were making improvements to her home. ... Full story
Incumbents rule the day
It was the night of the incumbents in Aurora, and another four years for Alderman-at-Large Richard Irvin. ... Full story
Businesses close, open, expand in Geneva
Geneva has lost 19 businesses since November, according to the city’s monthly business reports, but gained 13 new ones with more on the horizon, officials said. ... Full story
Utility rates to increase May 1 in St. Charles
City residents could soon pay $9.29 more a month for utilities under a new rate structure staff members are proposing. ... Full story
Geneva candy maker brings smiles to faces
Jeff Howard kept one eye on the gooey mix of glucose, sugar, butter, salt and half and half creamer and kept stirring it with a wooden paddle to make sure it didn't burn. ... Full story
Kilburg wins Geneva's 3rd Ward; Brown re-elected
Former school board member Dean Kilburg won the aldermanic race for Geneva's Third Ward with 189 votes over newcomer Becky Hruby's 99, according to unofficial results Tuesday. ... Full story
Toys inspire Aurora art show
More than two dozen local and renowned artists will participate in “Molded Heroes,” a two-day gallery show inspired by childhood toys, Saturday, April 9, at 75 S. LaSalle St., downtown Aurora. ... Full story
Kane bat and bird study progressing
A proposal to study bats and birds at local forest preserves has advanced with Friday’s approval by the executive committee of the Kane County Forest Preserve Commission, but the final decision to implement both studies will not be made for about another week. ... Full story
Technical difficulties delaying ECC registration
Elgin Community College may not buy the old “my dog ate my homework” for late assignments. But it may be more sympathetic to the “my computer crashed” excuse. ... Full story
Early voters turn out despite ‘quiet’ campaigns
It’s a quiet election season, according to area election officials, but voters still got to the polls early. ... Full story
Unemployment rate dips in Kane in February
The odds of finding a job might have improved slightly in and around Kane County in the past few weeks. ... Full story
Police, teens team up for alcohol awareness
s part of Alcohol Awareness Month, members of the St. Charles Police Department will team up with teenagers Friday to remind adults the consequences of providing alcohol to minors. ... Full story
Soldier gets big welcome home
Motorcycles rumbled, American flags fluttered in the April wind while police and fire vehicles flashed lights amid a bleep-bleep-skwonk of horns and emergency sirens through downtown Geneva – all to welcome home Master Gunnery Sgt. Scott Singer, 42, home after a year in Afghanistan. ... Full story
Fall Half Marathon and Full Marathon Training Registration now open
The Fox River Trail Runners (FRTR) and Your Health Vision will conduct half marathon and marathon training programs starting April 24 for runners interested in running fall races. ... Full story
Mid-America Signs Dollar Tree to West Aurora Plaza
Dollar Tree recently signed a lease for 10,900 square feet at West Aurora Plaza in West Aurora Ill. ... Full story
DuPage chairman wants Housing Authority board to quit
Citing a need for sharper oversight of an agency accused of mismanaging federal dollars, DuPage County Board Chairman Dan Cronin called Monday for the resignation of the county's troubled Housing Authority board. ... Full story
ED candidates discuss the issues
Village board candidates in next week’s election addressed issues Tuesday night ranging from village services to business and neighborhood. ... Full story
ECC trustee candidates focus on future finances
There’s already been plenty of developments in this spring’s candidate campaigns for the Elgin Community College District 509 Board of Trustees. ... Full story
State redistricting forum set for Aurora
A forum on drawing new legislative districts in Illinois will be held later this month in Aurora. ... Full story
Sacred Heart to break ground on new church home
After 13 years without a church to call their sacred home, parishioners will break ground on a new Sacred Heart Catholic Church on Friday. ... Full story
Aldermen debate proposed rules for backyard chickens
Batavia Community Development Director Jerry Swanson will use the comments he received from aldermen Wednesday to craft a new ordinance. ... Full story
Kane is 9th-healthiest in state, study suggests
Kane County residents are getting healthier, according to a national study released this week. ... Full story
Chief deputy sues Kane County Coroner West and 2 coworkers
A longtime chief deputy coroner is suing Kane County Coroner Charles West, alleging that the embattled coroner retaliated against her in violation of the state’s Whistleblower’s Act when she reported that he allowed employees to take a television from a dead man’s home. ... Full story
