The Courier News :: News ::

10,000 strong join Kane Co. voter rolls

Tue, 7 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

There will be about 10,000 more people eligible to vote in the upcoming presidential election in Kane County, outside of the city of Aurora, than there were in 2004, election officials are estimating.
� Online: Kane County elections
� Online: DeKalb County elections
� Online: DuPage County elections
� Map: Early polling places

Elgin council to look at flood response

Tue, 7 Oct 2008 00:01 CST

On the heels of last week's declaration by the federal government that Kane County will be one of seven in the region eligible to receive disaster relief, Elgin leaders plan to hear a presentation Wednesday on the city's response to areas flooded by heavy rains in September.

Hampshire man makes music for his part of town

By DENISE MORAN For The Courier News — Tue, 7 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

Everyone knows about the Bermuda Triangle, but only a number of area residents remember Udina Triangle and Starks Triangle. Ed Wesemann of Hampshire is among them, having lived and/or worked at both Udina Triangle and Starks Triangle.

Interests intersect at interchange

By CHARLOTTE NORGAARD For The Courier News — Tue, 7 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

Three governing bodies hope to reach an agreement this week to begin the process of expanding the interchange at Illinois 47 and Interstate 90. Kane County, the village of Huntley and McHenry County plan to reach an intergovernmental agreement at Wednesday's Kane County Board Executive Committee meeting that will clear the way for Phase II engineering at the site.

The 411

Tue, 7 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

What's the ladder law? I drive by a house on the corner of Spring and Slade (in Elgin) almost every day. The house has had ladders on it for almost three years. Is there an ordinance against this?

Monitors for alcohol get Kane praise

Tue, 7 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

More than 18 months after Kane County judges began offering continuous alcohol monitoring as an alternative to jail, the prosecutor's office is hailing the program as a success and a savings to taxpayers.

New pastor taking time to learn about Hampshire

By JEANIE MAYER For The Courier News — Tue, 7 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

If you haven't yet met him on his walks around the village, you definitely will see him on Sunday mornings at First United Methodist Church. The Rev. Gavin Brandt has been working as the new pastor at the little brick church on Grove Avenue since July. "We are really enjoying the church and the people," he said. "The attitude � I love walking around town. It's a really healthy town to be in."

Two disaster recovery centers opening today

From Staff Reports — Tue, 7 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

A disaster recovery center opens in the area today to assist residents who suffered losses from the severe storms and flooding in the region last month.

Briefs: Coffee with South Elgin president changed

Tue, 7 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

The Coffee with the Mayor, originally scheduled later this month, has been moved up to Thursday. The meeting will be held from 7 to 8 p.m. in the conference room of village hall, 10 N. Water St. Residents are encouraged to meet Village President Jim Hansen and Village Administrator Larry Jones at this informal gathering, which is designed to provide a forum for residents to discuss village issues or concerns important to village residents.

Hampshire Briefs: Mum sale for pantry

Tue, 7 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

Mums are being sold for $9 apiece to benefit the Burlington-Hampshire Food Pantry. The sale is taking place at Petersen's Speedy-Mart/BP on State and Illinois 72 in Hampshire.

Police Blotter

Tue, 7 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

A 14-year-old resident riding a bike collided with a car at State and LaFox streets about 4 p.m. Thursday but was released a few hours later after treatment at Provena Saint Joseph Hospital in Elgin, police reported. The cyclist told officers that a car in front of him had stopped, waiting to turn left. Thinking that meant the light had turned green for his own direction of travel, the boy rode in front of the halted car and collided with a moving car in the adjoining lane, police said.

Taser suit claims excess force

Sun-Times News Group — Tue, 7 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

A man claims in a federal lawsuit that he was shot with a Taser device multiple times by East Dundee police without justification after leaving his job at an East Dundee Wal-Mart in 2007.

Anti-abortionists fear libel suit fees

Tue, 7 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

Last month, a Kane County judge dismissed two counts of a libel lawsuit filed against Planned Parenthood by local anti-abortion activists. Now, those activists might have to pay more than $300,000 in Planned Parenthood's legal fees associated with the suit.

Court Brief

Tue, 7 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

An Elgin man pleaded guilty recently to his sixth DUI and will be sent to prison, according to the Kane County State's Attorney's Office. Cirilo R. Goytia, 42, of the 100 block of North Gifford Street, agreed to a seven-year prison term in exchange for pleading guilty to one felony count of aggravated DUI, a Class X, because of his prior drunken-driving convictions, a news release stated.

U46 officials focus on mentoring at-risk boys

Tue, 7 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

With at-risk male students falling behind across Elgin School District U46, administrators are stepping up to the plate as mentors. "Research shows that kids who are at risk and are significantly connected to an adult in the community, their success in school improves," said U46 Superintendent Jose Torres. "As a large school district, our trends often mirror national research that indicates boys are more at risk of falling behind," Torres said.

East Dundee cops sued over Taser use

Sun-Times News Group — Mon, 6 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

New: A man claims he was shot with a Taser device multiple times by East Dundee police without justification after leaving his job at an East Dundee Wal-Mart in 2007.

Man gets 7 years in prison for 6th DUI

Sun-Times News Group — Mon, 6 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

New: An Elgin man was sentenced to seven years in prison Friday after pleading guilty to his sixth DUI charge. Cirilo R. Goytia, 42, agreed to plea guilty to aggravated DUI in exchange for a sentence of seven years, according to the Kane County State's Attorney's office.

Disaster recovery center opens

Sun-Times News Group — Mon, 6 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

A disaster recovery center opens in the area Tuesday to assist residents who suffered losses from the severe storms and flooding in the region last month.

Depression screening day Wednesday

Mon, 6 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

Housing prices are dropping like bad bricks. The stock market is rambling like a rickety roller coaster. Food and energy prices are soaring. Commuting is an exercise in frustration. Workers are spinning plates like circus performers. Bosses are baffling. And politicians are engaging in petty bickering and airing inane campaign ads instead of facing serious problems.

Tours raise funds to fix Farnsworth House

Beacon News Staff — Mon, 6 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

Less than a month since flood waters entered Ludwig Mies van der Rohe�s modern masterpiece � the Farnsworth House on the banks of the Fox River here � doors will once again open for tours.

Foster, Oberweis split on bailout package

By ERIKA WURST ewurst@scn1.com — Mon, 6 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

Voters of the 14th District got their chance to quiz Republican congressional candidate Jim Oberweis and incumbent Democrat Bill Foster on Sunday at the Norris Cultural Arts Center in St. Charles. In an event sponsored by the League of Women Voters, the two candidates, vying for a full two-year term in Washington come November, spoke about the economy, the war in Iraq and other topics.

5 hurt in Bartlett crash

Sun-Times News Group — Mon, 6 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

Five people suffered minor injuries in Bartlett Sunday night when two cars collided.

Area shelters get $210,000 from state

Sun-Times News Group — Mon, 6 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

SPRINGFIELD � Fox Valley shelters for the homeless will receive about $210,000 in emergency grants from the state, to cope with rising demand for services because of the nation�s economic downturn, Gov. Rod Blagojevich announced Monday.

Hands-on history helping connect with Elgin's past

By JANELLE WALKER For The Courier News — Mon, 6 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

Rain, combined with Bears and Sox games Sunday, may have kept many residents from coming out for the fourth-annual hands-on History Fair at the Lords Park Pavilion. But over the next few days, area children still will get the benefit of learning about local history and the way of life here 100 years ago.

Time to get out your lederhosen

By DENISE MORAN For The Courier News — Mon, 6 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

BURLINGTON -- Bring out your lederhosen and get ready to enjoy some oom-pah music at St. John Lutheran Church's annual Octoberfest this weekend.

Walk/run benefit soars

By JULIE MULLEN For The Courier News — Mon, 6 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

ALGONQUIN -- Kathleen Casey said that if her son, Barrett, were here to see the more than 500 participants banding together to raise money for pediatric cancer, he'd be beyond proud.

6 staffers at Hampshire prep for marathon

Mon, 6 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

Finishing a grueling 26.2-mile race can be a daunting challenge. Six Hampshire Elementary School staff members are helping each other accomplish that goal. The six -- Principal Jim Aalfs and teachers Megan Wells, Jennifer Nolan, Diane and Mike York and Dave Murk -- will participate in the Chicago Marathon on Sunday.

Red light cameras en route

By JANELLE WALKER For The Courier News — Mon, 6 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

SOUTH ELGIN -- By next spring, there will be a few spots on Randall Road in South Elgin where running a red light in the village will likely mean getting a ticket in the mail.

Shakespeare with a twist

By DENISE MORAN For The Courier News — Mon, 6 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

HUNTLEY -- Shakespeare is coming to Huntley.

Oct. 25 fundraiser is set for horse rescue group

By ERIKA WURST Staff Writer — Mon, 6 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

ST. CHARLES -- It was 20 below in Chicago the night Sue Balla got the phone call.

New Sherman seeks donations

Sun, 5 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

Sherman Hospital officials are turning to area residents to contribute to the new facility on Elgin's west side, they announced Saturday. With $10.1 million of the $12 million goal already accounted for, Sherman Hospital President and CEO Richard Floyd asked ordinary residents to reach into their pockets, promising any gifts would be put to good use.

State to notify voters of misleading ballot

By RUPA SHENOY The Associated Press — Sun, 5 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

Every Illinois voter who goes to the polls next month must be notified of misleading language on the ballot, a judge ruled Friday. Cook County Circuit Court Judge Nathaniel Howse Jr. ordered state election officials to print notices directing voters to disregard the false information, which deals with a referendum on whether Illinois should hold a constitutional convention.

Mystery looms over Fossett's death

By EVELYN NIEVES AND SCOTT SONNER The Associated Press — Sun, 5 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

RENO, Nev. -- The sky was clear that morning, the wind light. Steve Fossett took off alone from hotel magnate Barron Hilton's ranch about 70 miles southeast of Reno in a blue and white stunt plane with orange stripes and blue sunbursts on the wings.

'Mystery ER' features Elgin docs, hospital

Sun, 5 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

ELGIN -- Two city doctors and Sherman Hospital are featured in an episode of Mystery ER airing this week on the Discovery Health channel.

$120K preschool grant to support 40 new pupils

Sun, 5 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

PINGREE GROVE -- Cambridge Lakes Preschool has received a $120,000 grant to provide schooling for at-risk 3- and 4-year-olds from the Illinois State Board of Education.

Schools tackle discipline, banned items

Sun, 5 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

Most local school districts prohibit students from entering school with items including tobacco, alcohol, drugs, weapons (or look-alikes), phones, pagers, radios, iPods, tape recorders and computer games. School officials say they're on the "stricter end of the scale" when it comes to discipline but first-time offenders typically get warnings.

Township chosen as mobile response site

By ROMI HERRON For The Courier News — Sun, 5 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

Hanover Township and the American Red Cross of Greater Chicago have formed a response partnership for severe weather incidents, fire, hazardous material spills, transportation accidents and other disasters that could leave residents in need of shelter and assistance.

Police Blotter

Sun, 5 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

Police Reports

Dems looking to keep Hastert's old seat

By DENNIS CONRAD The Associated Press — Sun, 5 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

WASHINGTON -- Bill Foster hasn't been in Congress long, but he's got something his opponent doesn't: a voting record.

Artist witnesses postwar history

Sun, 5 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

LINCOLNSHIRE -- With a pencil and a large pad of paper, 87-year-old Franklin McMahon has been a witness to some of the greatest moments in postwar America.

Illinois, like others, hit by financial meltdown

By DEANNA BELLANDI The Associated Press — Sun, 5 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

CHICAGO -- The financial turmoil on Wall Street is costing Illinois money.

7 area counties eligible for flood aid

Sun-Times News Group — Sat, 4 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

Flood victims in seven Illinois counties are now eligible to receive federal aid since a request filed by Governor Rod Blagojevich for flood assistance was approved. Residents in Cook, DeKalb, DuPage, Grundy, Kane, LaSalle and Will counties who have been affected by the recent flooding can register for temporary housing and grants or loans to help with flood-related losses

Gold Class Cinemas open with luxury galore

Sat, 4 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

Tired of the same old multiplex experience when you go to a movie -- same old popcorn and Sno Caps, the same old sticky floors, the same old narrow seats? At Village Roadshow Gold Class Cinemas, your moviegoing experience is just a little different. The valet parking, for instance.
� Online: Gold Class Cinemas

New signs approved for Carpentersville

Sat, 4 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

Motorists driving into Hampshire along Illinois 72 or U.S. 20 will be greeted soon with new monument signs almost 6 feet high. The village board voted Thursday to buy four of the signs for $31,448, from Sign-A-Rama in Carpentersville.

Elgin animal lovers bring pets for blessings

By Cigi Ross Staff Writer — Sat, 4 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

Some area pets may feel a little more spiritual today, after being blessed by the Rev. Joseph Kulak at St. Laurence Catholic School, 572 Standish St. on Friday. The animals were blessed to celebrate the feast of St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals, merchants and ecology and founder of the Franciscan Order. St. Laurence School Principal Phyllis Jensen said blessing the animals is a Catholic tradition.

Bush signs off on rescue package

By JULIE HIRSCHFELD DAVIS AND DAVID ESPO The Associated Press — Sat, 4 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

With the economy on the brink and elections looming, Congress approved an unprecedented $700 billion government bailout of the battered financial industry on Friday and sent it to President George W. Bush who quickly signed it.

Local bankers react to $700B bill

By DAVID GIALANELLA AND STEVEN ROSS JOHNSON Staff Writers — Sat, 4 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

As news that the U.S. House of Representatives passed its own version of the bailout bill Friday, local bankers found themselves feeling a bit more at ease, they told The Courier News Friday.

The 411

Sat, 4 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

FOID identification

Local Briefs

Sat, 4 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

FPD closes on Brunner property

Sat, 4 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

It recently became official: the Kane County Forest Preserve District now holds three and a half miles of contiguous riverfront land.

Big questions at GreenTown postgame show

Sat, 4 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

AURORA -- The GreenTown Conference is over, but the big question still remains -- how do cities and towns get their citizens in on the sustainability game?

Northern Fox Valley houses of worship

Sat, 4 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

Look over The Courier's listing of Fox Valley-area houses of worship. The listing includes the addresses, telephone numbers and links to Web sites when available of houses of faith in the Fox Valley.

Police Blotter

Sat, 4 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

Algonquin

Court Briefs

From Staff Reports — Sat, 4 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

Michigan

Gilberts is going green

Fri, 3 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

Gilberts officials are eyeing a partnership with Naperville-based The Conservation Foundation to develop environmentally friendly stormwater system practices for the Tyler Creek property south of town.

Third West Nile case found in Kane

BY CHRISTINE MOYER Staff Writer — Fri, 3 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

A St. Charles teenager is the third person to be identified with West Nile virus in Kane County this year, according to the Health Department.

Sentencing for Carpentersville trustee scheduled

Staff report — Fri, 3 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

The sentencing hearing for a Carpentersville trustee convicted of domestic battery for hitting his wife with a baseball bat has been scheduled for Oct. 22 after several delays.

Vandals hit 2nd sculpture in St. Charles

Fri, 3 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

St. Charles park and police officials promised Wednesday to step up patrols of Mount St. Mary Park after the second incident of vandalism to a sculpture exhibit occurred on Tuesday. The piece titled Flourish, a four-foot-tall stainless steel sculpture portrayal of several birds in mid-flight connected by their wings, was found broken and bent by a park employee.
� Online: St. Charles park sculptures

Elgin's Gail Borden library branch grows

By JANELLE WALKER For The Courier News — Fri, 3 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

If you stuck a pin in a map of Elgin and drew a circle in a 500-mile radius, most of the construction materials used inside the new Gail Borden Public Library branch would come from inside that circle.
� Online: Gail Borden Public Library

Local Briefs: Harvest Hustle is Oct. 4

Fri, 3 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

Fired Larkin teacher finds new job at college level

Fri, 3 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

ELGIN -- Even as his supporters continued their legal fight against Elgin School District U46, the Larkin High School teacher whose job they tried to save has found a new job -- at a college in Wisconsin.

Police Blotter

Fri, 3 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

Elgin

2-vehicle accident leaves 1 man dead, 1 in hospital

Fri, 3 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

A St. Charles man died early Thursday morning after a two-vehicle, head-on collision west of Batavia. Craig Smith, 53, of the 300 block of 12th Street, St. Charles, was pronounced dead at the scene, according to the Kane County Sheriff's Department. Police said he might have been on his way to work at EDM Network Inc. in Sugar Grove.

Court Brief: Humpfer sentencing set

Fri, 3 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

The sentencing hearing for Carpentersville Village Trustee Paul Humpfer, delayed several times for post-trial motions, has been scheduled for the afternoon of Oct. 22. In a March bench trial, Humpfer was convicted of four misdemeanor counts of domestic battery for hitting his wife with a baseball bat in May 2007 inside the couple's Carpentersville home.

Not just fiddling around

Fri, 3 Oct 2008 00:01 CST

Meeting world-renowned violinist Midori was a little like meeting Yo-Yo Ma or Oprah Winfrey, according to Larkin High School senior Melanie Chwee, who has been playing viola since fourth grade. "She is not just like a Hollywood celebrity. She is more respected than that. To be in the presence of someone this great is just amazing. It shows that you can do great things if you put your heart and soul into it," Chwee said. About 250 high school students gathered in Larkin High School's auditorium Thursday to hear Midori coach.

Hampshire library embracing growth

By JEANIE MAYER For The Courier News — Thu, 2 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

Launching a new Web site, offering electronic databases for research projects and small business development, and expanding the library's services to include adult programming are among the plans under way for the Ella Johnson Library District under its new director, Carol Schrey. Schrey comes to the village with three years prior experience as a library director at the Franklin Grove Library just west of Rochelle.

Westbound I-90 reopens after truck fire

Beacon News Staff — Thu, 2 Oct 2008 00:01 CST

A fire on a semitrailer truck closed all westbound lanes of the Jane Addams Memorial Tollway early Thursday for about three hours near East Dundee. No one was hurt in the blaze.

Elgin Police Department past going on the record

Thu, 2 Oct 2008 00:01 CST

Much of Elgin's police history has changed in the past century, and members of the Elgin Area Historical Society and the Citizens Police Academy Alumni Association are joining efforts to make sure that history is preserved at the Elgin Law Enforcement Facility. The group, which has been meeting for two years, met again Tuesday night to sort through items from the 1900s to 1930s to feature in a display case in the police department lobby.

South Elgin receives governor's award

By JANELLE WALKER For The Courier News — Thu, 2 Oct 2008 00:01 CST

A South Elgin park dedicated to children who have died has garnered the village statewide recognition. The South Elgin Parks and Recreation Department has been awarded the 2008 Governor's Hometown Award for its "Footprints in Time" Plaza.

Palin vs. Biden: The great debate

Thu, 2 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

More often than not, the once-every-four-years vice presidential debate is a snoozer. Not so this year. The matchup between Joe Biden and Sarah Palin is appointment television. Everybody, it seems, has an opinion. So, tonight, we invite you to share yours as we host an online chat during the debate.

The 411

Thu, 2 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

Action on Aldine II

Goebbert's farms a family tradition

Thu, 2 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

Eerie sounds coming from the Haunted Henpecked Mine didn't deter 88-year-old Mary Lake, who guided her walker through the haunted house Wednesday at Goebbert's Pumpkin Patch. The chains and coffin startled Lake, who said the Henpeck Mine was definitely "haunted."
� Online: Goebbert's farms

Car show ready to roll

By DENISE MORAN For The Courier News — Thu, 2 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

Street rods, muscle cars and Corvettes are just a few of the more than 100 cars rolling into Deicke Park this weekend for the annual Huntley Car Show. The car show will be Sunday at the park, located just south of Illinois 47 and Mill Street.
� Online: Huntley Fall Fest

All aboard for South Elgin trolley museum fun

From Staff Reports — Thu, 2 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

The Fox Valley Trolley Museum is gearing up for some fall and winter specials. Special Pumpkin Trolleys will operate the weekends of Oct. 11-12 and Oct. 18-19, Halloween Hiawatha, the Ghost Story Train, which will run Oct. 18 and 19 and Polar Express in December.
� Online: Fox Valley Trolley Museum

Elgin Briefs: Kane County sheriff honored

Thu, 2 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

Hampshire Briefs: Santa coming to town

Thu, 2 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

Leaf collection season begins in Elgin

Thu, 2 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

It's that time of year again, when city workers begin hitting the streets as the first leaves of autumn begin hitting the ground. The city's Fall Leaf Collection Program begins Monday, Oct. 13. The service allows residents in designated neighborhoods to rake loose leaves onto the street curb for crews to collect.
� Online: Elgin leaf collection program

Fire displaces Carpentersville family

Thu, 2 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

A fire on the east side of the village left one Carpentersville family of four homeless and almost 60 families without power for several hours Tuesday evening.

Curse of the Cubs?

Thu, 2 Oct 2008 00:01 CST

What's in a name? Ask Chicago Cubs fan Jill Howe, 15. The Elgin High School sophomore had to remove her Kosuke Fukudome jersey and wear a gym class T-shirt in order to attend class Wednesday. It all involved a misunderstanding -- since rectified -- about the correct pronunciation of the right fielder's last name. This is the native Japanese and All-Star player's first year playing for the Cubs and in the United States.

A look back at Meadowdale Shopping Center

Thu, 2 Oct 2008 00:01 CST

Online only: Some towns are shaped by giant personalities -- people with a vision who single-handedley turn that town into a different world from what it was when they found it. Dundee Township had one such giant: Leonard W. Besinger.

Kane Motorsports opening Elgin facility

Staff Report — Thu, 2 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

Kane County Motor Sports will host the grand opening of a new 17,000-square-foot facility in Elgin on Saturday.

Sarto: Tear down Meadowdale mall

Thu, 2 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

Tear down this mall! That's Village President Bill Sarto's plan to revitalize Carpentersville's Illinois 25 corridor. Earlier this week, Sarto took to his blog, About Carpentersville, to float the idea of tearing down Meadowdale Mall.
� Online: Bill Sarto's blog
� Meadowdale's history

Enrollment up in School District 300

Wed, 1 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

Enrollment in Community Unit School District 300 has increased by more than 500 students from last year, according to the latest enrollment figures from the district. District-wide enrollment has increased to 20,029 -- up from 19,502 in the 2007-08 school year.

Gang investigation nets 49 area arrests

Sun-Times News Group — Wed, 1 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

Valentin Sierra-Martinez, a Mexican national arrested in Elgin, was the 10,000th gang member or associate arrested by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in Operation Community Shield since 2005.

Elgin High marches toward homecoming

Wed, 1 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

In the face of detours, potholes and bulldozers tearing up concrete downtown, homecoming king and queen nominees should stay afloat during Elgin High School's parade on Sunday, school officials say. The school's homecoming parade, which starts at 1 p.m. and runs through part of downtown, will be fine despite the ongoing construction, said Nan Strohmaier, Elgin High's homecoming coordinator. "It's a wonderful route; it's just not under the most desirable circumstances," Strohmaier said.

Kane County reports second West Nile case

Wed, 1 Oct 2008 00:01 CST

A 74-year-old Huntley woman is the second West Nile virus case of the season reported in Kane County, the health department said Tuesday.

Morning fires close Northwest Highway

Wed, 1 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

Two major fires in southern McHenry County kept fire departments from throughout the Fox Valley scrambling Tuesday morning. A three-alarm fire at Gage Grinding Co., 30 S. U.S. 14 (Northwest Highway) in Cary, drew fire departments from as far away as Elgin and closed the highway for several hours.

Hampshire park names preserve memories

Wed, 1 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

Newcomers and out-of-towners may go to Bruce Ream Park to eat corn at Coon Creek Days. On the way to work the next day, they may drop off the kids at the preschool in Ralph Seyller Park. But they may leave wondering who these two men were whose names are memorialized in the entrance signs for the only two large parks in Hampshire Township Park District.

Cubs the favorites, but can they do it?

BY GORDON WITTENMYER gwittenmyer@suntimes.com — Wed, 1 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

From the first question of spring training about the 100-year drought and Cub curses, Lou Piniella has said the 2008 Cubs stand on their own merit. Now, 7� months later, on their own merit, they open the playoffs against the Los Angeles Dodgers as heavy favorites to get to the World Series.

Renowned broadcaster talks change in agriculture

By DENISE MORAN For The Courier News — Wed, 1 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

Change has been the operative word in the current presidential campaigns, just it has been the operative word in farming since the Kane County Farm Bureau formed 95 years ago.

Elgin native an Air Force awards finalist

Wed, 1 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

The Beijing Olympics are over, but Tech Sgt. Arnie Dye still could win a gold medal. A 1996 graduate of Larkin High School in Elgin, Dye is a finalist in the U.S. Air Force's Sensor Olympics Recognition Program. He and the 65 other finalists were chosen from among about 8,000 members of the Air Force who are eligible to compete for the awards.

Library wants to hear from you

By JANELLE WALKER For The Courier News — Wed, 1 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

Attendance numbers are up, as is circulation, according to Gail Borden Public Library District officials. But even organizations that are doing well need to make sure they are offering everything the public wants, said Denise Raleigh, director of marketing, development and communications. To hear what the public wants at its library, staff there will host two town hall meetings as part of its strategic direction-setting process. Meetings are set from 2 to 4 p.m. today and from 7 to 9 p.m. Tuesday.

Slurpers and shooters sought

From Staff Reports — Wed, 1 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

Pudding slurpers and marshmallow shooters still are being sought for the city Parks and Recreation Department's third annual Youth Scholarship Team Challenge. The challenge, which raises money for disadvantaged young people, will start at 5 p.m. Oct. 17 at The Centre of Elgin, 100 Symphony Way. Seven teams are signed up so far for the challenge.

Briefs: Kane Co. Farm Bureau raises funds

Wed, 1 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

A silent auction raised nearly $3,000 for the Kane County Farm Bureau Foundation at its annual meeting this week. According to the farm bureau, more than $20,000 in tuition assistance is being awarded in 2008-09 to 15 students from the county who are majoring in agriculture-related fields.

Briefs: Open house at Hampshire Elementary

Wed, 1 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

Hampshire Elementary School, 321 Terwilliger Ave., will host an open house and book fair from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Thursday. From 7 to 8 p.m., classrooms will be open for families to visit, and school work will be on display. The book fair will be from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in the gymnasium, where students and parents can purchase books. "Anytime we can open up the doors and get parents in the building is a great thing," said Principal Jim Aalfs.

Police Blotter

From Staff Reports — Wed, 1 Oct 2008 04:00 CST

Residential burglary: Several items were reported stolen from a home in the 300 block of Tulsa Avenue between Sept. 16 and Monday. The owner of the home is deceased, and his son has been moving items from the home the past few weeks, according to reports. The son reported that he found the home's back door open Monday and that a 35 mm camera, two sets of binoculars and two collector's items were missing from inside, police said.

Watching, worrying about the economy

Tue, 30 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

A dreary Monday in Elgin was made all the more gloomy by news out of Washington that politicians couldn't come to an agreement on a $700 billion emergency rescue package for the nation's financial system.

Fire closes Norhwest Highway

Tue, 30 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

Two major fires in southern McHenry County kept fire departments from throughout the Fox Valley scrambling this morning. Firefighters battled a house fire on Algonquin�s east side. Also, part of U.S. 14 was closed to traffic after a fire at Gage Grinding in Cary.
� Photos: Fire in Cary

Western villages vie for retail

Tue, 30 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

Big new housing developments have sprung up all over the Hampshire-Pingree Grove-Burlington area in recent years. But people moving in find that they must travel miles -- to places such as Huntley, Elgin and DeKalb -- for many kinds of retail stores, from supermarkets to shoe stores to drugstores. In the second half of a series, we look at efforts being made by each village in northwestern Kane County to land more stores -- both to make everyday life more convenient for residents and to generate a lucrative flow of sales tax income.

The 411

Tue, 30 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

Property tax sale details

Run/walk club keeps pastor and friends fit

By JEANIE MAYER For The Courier News — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

One could say there are two kinds of people in the world: those who run and those who walk. The Rev. Howard Gleason of St. John Lutheran Church in Burlington has found a way to unite the two groups in a run/walk club that he and other members of his flock started earlier this year.

Kane County weighing purchase of ice arena

Tue, 30 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

Kane County Forest Preserve commissioners could be close to a purchase of the Fox Valley Ice Arena on Kirk Road in Geneva. Although the arena is in dire financial straits, commissioners still have to hash out exactly what they are willing to pay. They will discuss it at a special meeting at 4:45 p.m. today in the county board room, Government Center, 719 S. Batavia Ave., Geneva.

Historic homes open to visitors

By LINDA GIRARDI For The Courier News — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

The timeless native hornbeam tree with cat scratch bark leading to the front walk of the Oscar Wilson House, circa 1912, was a sure giveaway of something magnificent. "The owners did a remarkable job restoring the home lovingly," said Tom Mahaffey, a St. Charles architect. On Saturday, Mahaffey was among many history aficionados who had a rare opportunity to marvel at the design and workmanship of these residences while learning how today's owners are preserving homes on the National Register of Historic Places.

U46 counteroffers in discrimination lawsuit

Tue, 30 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

Elgin School District U46 has offered a counterproposal to plaintiffs in an attempt to settle a racial discrimination lawsuit against it, according to the district.

Elgin Briefs: Library input meetings set

Tue, 30 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

Over the next few months, Gail Borden Public Library will begin a strategic direction-setting process to help determine priorities, plans and goals for the next few years. The library is asking the public to participate in two town hall meetings to obtain community input on what that future should be.

Hampshire Briefs: Chicago food excursion set

Tue, 30 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

The Hampshire Park District is planning a yummy trip that will transport people to new worlds. A Taste of the Neighborhoods Trip into Chicago is scheduled to depart at 7:15 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 18, from the park district offices, 390 South Ave.

Police Blotter

Tue, 30 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

Fire and police investigators continued Monday to probe the cause of a fire that did major damage to a condemned home in Sterling Woods subdivision on the far western fringes of South Elgin on Saturday night. Police said the blaze was noticed by a passerby at about 8:39 p.m.

Court Brief

Tue, 30 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

St. Charles Township

Hows is financial crisis affecting you?

Tue, 30 Sep 2008 00:01 CST

How have you been affected by the housing crisis, bank failures, plunging stock market and tight credit market? Has your family had to make sacrifices, or have you largely been able to get by unscathed financially? We want to know how the tanking economy has sent ripples through our communities. E-mail us at FVPreaders@gmail.com and share your story. Please include a name and hometown, as well as contact information.

Visits fuel Rezko aid rumors

By MIKE ROBINSON The Associated Press — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

Convicted political fixer Antoin "Tony" Rezko has been quietly visiting Chicago's federal courthouse, setting off speculation that he may be spilling secrets to federal prosecutors in return for a lenient sentence.

More foods to carry labeles with place of origin

By LAURAN NEERGAARD The Associated Press — Tue, 30 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

No more wondering where your hamburger came from, or where your lettuce and tomatoes were grown: Starting this week, shoppers will see lots more foods labeled with the country of origin.

Financial crisis: How is it hitting you?

Tue, 30 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

The financial news just keeps getting worse. We want to know how you�re being affected by this mess right here at home.

Elgin grappling with flooding aftermath

Tue, 30 Sep 2008 00:01 CST

As some Elgin residents continue to deal with the aftermath of flooding caused by September's record-breaking rains, city officials said Monday a recovery plan was and is in effect for those forced to leave their homes, despite criticism from some who claim assistance has so far fallen short. More than 8 inches of rain fell on the area Sept. 12-14, causing flooding in a number of homes throughout the city. Few areas of the city were harder hit than neighborhoods located near Poplar Creek on the southeast side.

Six cited in Bartlett for underage drinking

Sun-Times News Group — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

Police in Bartlett cut a party short early Sunday by citing six people for underage drinking.

Local pair finalists in wedding giveaway

Mon, 29 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

Dad grilling burgers on the grill, your fiance in a Hawaiian shirt, a pastor with a voice like Elmo -- sound like an ideal wedding?
� Online: Charleston Wedding Giveaway

CN comment period closes Tuesday

Mon, 29 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

Tuesday is the final day of public comment on the proposed Canadian National Railway merger plan. Since July, when it released a draft analysis of CN�s move to buy 198 miles of Elgin, Joliet & Eastern Railway tracks, the Surface Transportation Board has accepted public input that will be considered as the panel makes a final decision.

Land beyond retail stores

Mon, 29 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

Advantages are many to moving into a place such as Hampshire, Pingree Grove, Burlington or Plato Center. The nights are quiet and dark. Crime is almost nonexistent. Home prices are low, schools good, the atmosphere warm and Mayberry-like.

Tragedy of depression

Mon, 29 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

Almost six months ago, 17-year-old Andre Marcinczyk had just finished texting his friends about going to the movies. After that, he filled out some job applications. Meanwhile, his mother, Patti, and his then 18-year-old brother, Brandon, were in the living room watching TV. Patti got up and checked on Andre. She found him without a pulse lying on his bed with his neck tied to the bedpost.

It's fall, but many thinking of snow

Mon, 29 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

GENEVA -- No one wants to think about winter. But officials of the Kane County Transportation Division have to. They get paid to prepare for it.

Playboy to auction artwork to public

By KAREN HAWKINS The Associated Press — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

CHICAGO -- In one drawing, a naked woman leans over a ship railing, her ample derriere playfully peppered with travel stickers. In another, a busty blonde runs forward, casting off her button-down shirt with splayed arms and manicured nails.

History is repeated

By JANELLE WALKER For The Courier News — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

ELGIN -- Real estate prices across the country dropped, and there was a run on banks as many folded. One political party was blamed for the financial ruin, and the other party was ushered into office during the next elections -- and Judge David Sherwood was ushered out.

Paintball hits mark

By DENISE MORAN For The Courier News — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

HAMPSHIRE -- To combat the high price of gasoline these days, many people are seeking local entertainment options rather than locations that require a long drive.

Energy savings hitting home

By ROMI HERRON For The Courier News — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

ST. CHARLES -- As homeowners in the Chicago area prepare hearth and home for the changing temperatures that accompany autumn, landscaping tips and advice for heat retention were on hand at The Old House New House Home Show, held Friday through Sunday at Pheasant Run Resort in St. Charles.

Police Blotter

From Staff Reports — Mon, 29 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

Elgin

Lasting impressions in Dist. U46

Mon, 29 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

Last week, I shared with you my first impressions of Elgin School District U46. As I have visited schools, spoken with teachers and school staff members, and met with the community, I've learned a lot about the community's lasting impressions.

How Illinois reps voted on the bailout

Mon, 29 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

Here�s a look at how members of the Illinois delegation voted on the $700 billion bailout plan defeated by the U.S. House:

Reminiscing about Meadowdale Raceway

By JULIE MULLEN For The Courier News — Sun, 28 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

As if 50 years hadn't passed at all, Greg Besinger and Don Devine nudged each other with a gleam in their eyes as they recalled their younger racing days.
� Online: Anniversary site
� Online: Raceway Woods

Here's the scoop: Vote with your taste buds

By LINDA GIRARDI For The Courier News — Sun, 28 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

Barack Obama and John McCain will be having an ice cream sundae duel that will be yummy in your tummy. Colonial Caf� & Ice Cream has opened the ballot box for its 2008 Presidential Soda Straw Pollin which people of all ages can cast their vote while tasting one of two ice cream concoctions: The Ba-racky Road Sundae or The McCandy Cain Sundae.

Bartlett woman charged in hit and run

From Staff Reports — Sun, 28 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

A woman has been arrested in connection withy Saturday night's hit-and-run crash that injured a 13-year-old pedestrian. Sejal D. Patel, 32, 1500 block of Derby Lane, Bartlett, is charged with failure to give information and render aid and was cited with failure to exercise due care.

Officials probe South Elgin fire

Sun-Times News Group — Sun, 28 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

Officials remain on the scene Saturday night investigating a fire at a reportedly abandoned ranch house.

Parents: District U46 favors minority

Sun, 28 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

Some parents in Elgin School District U46 say English-speaking students are getting the short end of the stick when it comes to classroom size.

Harvest fun under the sun in Genoa

By DENISE MORAN For The Courier News — Sun, 28 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

GENOA -- The agricultural history of the city, founded in 1835, was highlighted this year during the annual Harvest Moon Festival presented by Genoa Main Street Inc.

'Stalker Law' increases Kane County's costs

Sun, 28 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

GENEVA -- Monitoring everyone in the 16th Circuit who violates an order of protection will be a costly proposition.

Open-air fest draws artists to Fabyan preserve

By ERIKA WURST Staff Writer — Sun, 28 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

When Aurora resident Katie Fowler pulled into the Fabyan Forest Preserve in Geneva on Saturday, she knew right where she was headed.

Local Briefs: Brain workshop in Elgin

Sun, 28 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

The Mommy Debate

Sun, 28 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

Elda Sirridge likes Sarah Palin. She thinks she "intelligent. She also thinks she's "extremely qualified" to be vice president of the United States. Except for one very important factor. "I think it is somewhat unfair to her baby to take on such a monumental task," said Sirridge, the mother of six children ages 1 through 15. The Elgin mom's view has been criticized by other women as being "very sexist." Others have told her it's "unfair of me to raise it." But Sirridge doesn't see it that way. Although she has never been political, Palin's candidacy is personal to her.
� Photos: Who is Sarah Palin?

News Digest

Sun, 28 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

STATE DIGEST

TV station sued over Stebic case

The Associated Press — Sun, 28 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

CHICAGO -- Relatives of the husband of missing Plainfield woman Lisa Stebic have filed a lawsuit against a Chicago CBS television station and six of its employees.

Ask AP: Is there enough cash in hand in the U.S.?

Sun, 28 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

Enough cash on hand?

No new judge for Humpfer

Sat, 27 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

Nearly seven months after Carpentersville Village Trustee Paul Humpfer was convicted of battering his wife, sentencing in the case is in sight. After Humpfer's motion for a new judge in the criminal matter was denied on Friday, Humpfer has just about run out of post-trial motions to file.

Elgin appoints first black deputy chief

Sat, 27 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

A day of recognition for three city police officers became a day to mark a historic first for the city. Elgin police Lt. Cecil Smith was named deputy chief of police, the first black to attain the position in the department's history.

The 411

Sat, 27 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

Where to volunteer?

Hampshire boy wins school raffle for ride home on firetruck

Sat, 27 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

Ben Sepanik, 6, was the most popular kid at Hampshire Elementary School on Friday. The first-grader got to show off in front of his friends by riding home from school in a fire engine with members of the Hampshire Fire Protection District. Ben was the winner of a raffle at Hampshire Elementary's back-to-school picnic

Price of D303 school renovations revealed

Sat, 27 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

ST. CHARLES -- If the school district and its residents believe the price of renovating Haines Middle School is too high, the school could be reconstructed at Silver Glen and Crane roads.

Huntley board reaffirms Algonquin Road alignment

By DENISE MORAN For The Courier News — Sat, 27 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

HUNTLEY -- The village board this week reaffirmed its choice of the layout for the proposed Algonquin Road extension alignment west of Illinois 47 to Marengo Road.

Service mother to receive Gold Star

Sat, 27 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

EAST DUNDEE -- An East Dundee resident will be one of 23 Illinois mothers honored at a ceremony Sunday.

City's South Asians shocked by scam, man's disappearance

By RUPA SHENOY The Associated Press — Sat, 27 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

CHICAGO -- Between the prayers that fill the holy month of Ramadan, during the long fasts that stretch from dawn to dusk, Muslims have been meeting in halls, schools and homes to discuss the disappearance of Salman Ibrahim.

Court denies Blagojevich health care expansion

By JOHN O'CONNOR The Associated Press — Sat, 27 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

SPRINGFIELD -- Gov. Rod Blagojevich's administration doesn't know who it's signed up for an enlarged health insurance program, how much money in premiums it's collected or even where that money is, according to a court ruling Friday that blocked the program's expansion.

Trial begins in Drake Field shooting in Elgin

Sat, 27 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

ST. CHARLES TOWNSHIP -- One of two Rockford brothers charged in connection with a shooting near a Pee Wee Football game on Elgin's east side last fall had his case go to trial Friday.

Fishing for information in Elgin-area waters

Sat, 27 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

Dundee-Crown High School science teacher Gary Swick brought two of his classes, Environmental Biology and Practical Botany, to his neighborhood pond in Rutland Township. With a fisheries biologist with the Illinois Department of Natural Resources, they took samples of the pond and discussed how it should be maintained.

Prairie Fest draws the community together

By MICHAEL J. MURSCHEL For The Courier News — Sat, 27 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

ELGIN -- Anyone driving by the Unitarian Universalist Church of Elgin will be immediately impressed by the way the church and its grounds fit seamlessly into the surrounding landscape.

Gilberts lays plans for the future

Fri, 26 Sep 2008 00:01 CST

Bill and Sara Michelini both wanted to make sure the Gilberts Village Board take train horn noise into consideration with its objective to explore possibilities for a Metra station in or service to Gilberts, part of the village's strategic plan for 2014.

Students getting voter registration help

Fri, 26 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

The youth vote will play a large role in this year's presidential election, and area high schools are doing their part to register eligible young voters so they may cast their ballots in November.

Home Schooling 101 in Hampshire

By JEANIE MAYER For The Courier News — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

When Mark and Sandy Weber's daughter Lizzie Gow began struggling in seventh grade, they made the decision to pull her out of school and try a different path to her education. Though bright, Lizzie had been falling behind in reading comprehension. Her mother saw it as a red flag and decided to take matters into her own hands.

Forest preserve looking for tree planters

Beacon News Staff — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

You can help make Kane County a little greener Saturday. That�s when an estimated 120,000 Americans will volunteer to help restore the the nation�s open spaces as part of the 15th annual National Public Lands Day.

Buy local to get fresh and save gas

Fri, 26 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

� Online: Kane County Farm Bureau

Hampshire resort, day spa caters to pets

By JEANIE MAYER For The Courier News — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

If you are the type of pet owner who feels guilty taking a fabulous vacation knowing your canine or feline companion is languishing in a kennel, you may want to check out Kountry Kennels on U.S. 20 here. Not just your average kennel, this pet resort and day spa is a high-end experience for the four-legged set.
� Online: Kountry Kennels

Web tool launched

By ROMI HERRON For The Courier News — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

BARTLETT -- With the 2008 U.S. presidential election just weeks away, the village has launched a new tool enabling residents to answer a highly anticipated question for November: Where is my polling place?

Harvest Hustle on tap in South Elgin

By JANELLE WALKER For The Courier News — Fri, 26 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

The South Elgin Parks Department's big fall event is coming up in just a few days, but there are many more things yet to come. The Pumpkin Patch and Harvest Hustle 7K and 2-mile Fun Walk are set for Saturday, Oct. 4. This is the eighth year for the Pumpkin Patch, and the fourth for Harvest Hustle.
� Online: Village of South Elgin

Elgin Briefs: Activate Elgin is Saturday

Fri, 26 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

Hampshire Briefs: CROP Walk is Sunday

Fri, 26 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

Many flood victims in Elgin still homeless

Fri, 26 Sep 2008 04:00 CST

A lone Salvation Army truck has become a familiar and welcomed sight around the area of Elgin Avenue and South Liberty Street in Elgin. For the past week for at least eight hours a day, volunteers of the charity organization have been serving meals and snacks on average to more than 200 residents, many still unable to go back to their flood-damaged homes. City inspectors "red-tagged" more than 30 residences days after torrential rainfall Sept. 12-14.
� Online: How to clean up after a flood
� Photos: Still cleaning up