Family literacy programs in the Elgin area are receiving over $300,000 in state grant funding to support community efforts to improve English literacy thanks to advocacy and support from State Senator Cristina Castro.

Advocating for the Voice of Children in Foster Care

CASA Kane County is a non-profit, volunteer-driven organization dedicated to advocating for children who have experienced abuse or neglect and are subsequently placed in foster care. We recruit, train, and supervise volunteers who serve as the child’s voice and the judge’s eyes and ears throughout the duration of their case in juvenile court.

Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity

It’s that time of year: Time for the 2025 Business Development Roadshow! The Regional Economic Development Team along with our partners from DCEO and others are bringing our exciting information to a location near you. The Roadshow events will take place across all 10 economic development regions from October 21st through November 7th. We kicked off the Roadshow with a virtual meeting in August. However, these in person events will have additional new information. We look forward to seeing you on the road!

Cook County on Thursday launched a new grant program, offering 88 established businesses in select industries a chance to receive $100,000 to fuel their growth. The Catalyst Grant is the first effort led by the Cook County Bureau of Economic Development aimed at supporting growing and established businesses throughout the county with annual sales greater than $500,000. Applications are open until 5 p.m. Oct. 31.

Through your support, families in your community and around the world partner with Habitat for Humanity to build the strength, stability, and independence they need for a better future, and a big Thanks to The City of Elgin, where many of the Habitat for Humanity of Northern Fox Valley Home Planet Earth Sculptures were on display.

Pat Szpekowski wins award from the National Federation of Press Women and announces the national professional communications contest award winners.

The Board of Education recognized Nathan with an “Accent on Achievement” certificate during its meeting on Monday, September 22.

Four-year contract increases wages, expands professional development

School District U-46’s Board of Education and the membership of the District U-46 Educational Assistants (DUEA) union agreed on a new four-year contract, which the Board officially approved at its meeting Monday night. DUEA represents more than 700 employees, including the district’s paraeducators, who assist students in both the classroom and individually.

The newly expanded and renovated Marklund Wasmond Center residential facility and school for individuals with developmental disabilities was celebrated with gold scissors and a red ribbon with an official ribbon-cutting event held Thursday, Sept. 11, at its location 1435 Summit Ave., Elgin.

The 17th Annual Short Film Festival lit up the Hemmens Cultural Center on Saturday, Sept. 20, showcasing filmmakers from across the United States and around the world.

Unite U-46 work drives capital expenditures

ELGIN - The U-46 Board of Education approved the fiscal year 2026 budget at its meeting on Monday, September 22. The budget reflects a commitment to fiscal equity, maintaining long-term financial stability, and a significant investment in the district’s future, primarily through the Unite U-46 capital initiative.

The Source: Small Business Events and Opportunities from Cook Countuy's Small Business Source

Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity

Illinois is honored to celebrate our diverse Latino and Hispanic communities in observation of Hispanic Heritage Month, September 15th through October 15th. During this month-long celebration, DCEO will be hosting a series of events, including an Office Hour Roadshow to meet with members of the Latino businesses across the state. Through a monthlong social media campaign, DCEO will also highlight Latino community leaders, organizations, and business enterprises throughout the state.

Dr. Brittany Barber, with over 14 years of experience in higher education, leadership development, student success, and community engagement, has dedicated her career to empowering individuals to embrace their brilliance and unlock their full potential.

Fox Valley Orthopedics is hosting a blood drive on October 15, 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m., at 2535 Soderquist Court in Geneva. Walk-ins are welcome; registration is encouraged at fvortho.com/blood-drive. Panera Bread is donating a healthy to-go meal to all donors.

Elgin Community College (ECC) is proud to announce...

Elgin Community College (ECC) is proud to announce it has been awarded the prestigious $50,000 NASA Minority University Research and Education Project’s (MUREP) Partnership Learning Annual Notification (MPLAN) for NASA Community College Aerospace Scholars (NCAS): MPLAN NCAS Partner Institute Robotics Competition.

Now is the time to be informed and prepared. To support your work and the families you serve, Centro has compiled resources and workplace recommendations to help organizations safeguard their staff and constituents:

Central High School has been recognized by the Illinois Art Education Association (IAEA) as a 2025 School of Distinction — one of only five schools in Illinois to receive this prestigious award. This honor celebrates schools with rigorous art, design, and media education programs. To earn the distinction, Central High School demonstrated practices that align with the Illinois Fine Arts and Media Standards, the Illinois Professional Teaching Standards, and Social-Emotional Learning priorities. Why this matters

Illinois Department of Commerce& Economic Opportunity

Illinois is honored to celebrate our diverse Latino and Hispanic communities in observation of Hispanic Heritage Month, September 15th through October 15th. Illinois will also take part in amplifying Support Latino Business Day on September 14th, a national call to action that acknowledges and encourages support for Latino-owned businesses.

Cash flow is one of the most important indicators of your business’s health. Your bank account balance can be misleading: Cash flow shows how much actual money is moving in and out of your company, rather than just what’s on paper. However, it’s often difficult to manually keep track of cash flow. If you’re struggling to get a clear picture of your business’s financial position, try using one of these tools to help you visualize and plan your cash flow. Top cash flow planning tools for small businesses

Proclamation directs state resources to Boone, Cook, Kane, McHenry, and Will Counties to support recovery efforts following the August storms

SPRINGFIELD – Governor JB Pritzker today issued a state disaster proclamation after severe weather and flooding caused extensive damage across Boone, Cook, Kane, McHenry, and Will Counties from August 16-19, 2025. The proclamation ensures that state resources can be directed to support local response and long-term recovery efforts.

Party at our place or yours. Food served hot and delicious.

When you know where to look, help for your small business is there for the taking. Whether you're starting a new small business or looking to grow the one you already own, finding funding can be a challenge for businesses of all sizes. If you’re looking for a small business loan or grant, CO— is here to help. Each w

On August 20, 2025, the First District of the Illinois Appellate Court decided Chicago Title Land Trust Co. v. Watkin, 2025 IL App (1st) 241354 (August 20, 2025). At issue in Watkin was whether the expiration of the statute of limitations barring enforcement of a mortgage also extinguishes the mortgage lien. The First District determined that the mortgage lien is not automatically extinguished by the running of the related statute of limitations.

Let's make a direct impact on the lives of vulnerable families in our community. We're hosting a donation drive for the Well Child Center Pantry located in Elgin. Your support can truly ease some of the stress and financial burdens faced by those who need it most. The Well Child Center offers essential resources, and the pantry serves as a lifeline for many families struggling to make ends meet. You're directly contributing to the well-being of local infants. Together, we can build a stronger community.

It’s hard to believe that the kids are back in school and the lazy days of summer are over. For our office, there was nothing lazy about it! We had a great group of interns who were eager to be out in the community connecting with people, sharing our office resources, and learning more about the issues that matter to you. It helps me as I weigh decisions about policies and legislation that affect our district. We knocked on over 3,600 doors and spoke to hundreds of people. It was a great achievement!

The Enhancing Elgin Committee of the Elgin Area Chamber's Elgin Development Group announces nominations are now open for the 2025 Elgin Image Awards. This prestigious program celebrates individuals, projects, and organizations that have made outstanding contributions to the Elgin community, helping to promote why Elgin is a great place to live, work, learn, do business, get involved, visit, and enjoy.

The curtain is rising on an exciting new season at the Hemmens Cultural Center, and it promises to be one of the best yet. From Grammy-winning mariachi performances and shadow-dance artistry to hilarious comedy and a tribute to Bruce Springsteen, the 2025-26 lineup offers something for everyone. Tickets are available now through the Hemmens box office

The city of Elgin has launched Engage Elgin, an online platform designed to make it easier than ever for residents to connect with city projects, share feedback and help shape Elgin’s future. The site serves as a central hub for information and participation, giving residents multiple ways to stay informed and get involved. In addition to surveys, open forums, voting opportunities, videos and interactive maps, the platform offers tools for residents to share feedback, exchange ideas and take part in decision-making.

Jen’s son, James, was diagnosed with T1D in September 2021. Since then, he has been hospitalized multiple times for T1D and other illnesses worsened by his weakened immune system.

The Elgin Development Group (EDG), a Division of the Elgin Area Chamber of Commerce, has released its comprehensive 2025 Data @ A Glance informational booklet on the City of Elgin, the 6th most populous city in the State of Illinois. “As a very pro-business community and organization,” said Carol Gieske, President and CEO, Elgin Area Chamber of Commerce, “this information is critical to share as it serves as a valuable first path for Elgin businesses interested in expansion and for prospective businesses looking to ope

Breaking Through: Communicating to Open Minds, Move Hearts, and Change the World

It might sound obvious, but effective business communication is a deal-breaker. No one knows that better than Sally Susman, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer and Executive Vice President at Pfizer, the world's largest biopharmaceutical company. In Breaking Through, Susman leverages her experience at Pfizer, especially during the exceptionally difficult Covid-19 years, to help business leaders be more effective and persuasive communicators. This is no easy feat! Luckily, Susman is a master communicator and shows us how to

Honoring the President of Creative Personnel

This month, Creative Personnel proudly celebrates the 17-year anniversary of our founder and president, Cindy Cruz — a visionary leader who has dedicated nearly two decades to building opportunities, empowering individuals, and strengthening our communities through employment.

The Unsold Mindset: Redefining What it Means to Sell

Most of us dislike being sold to in a pushy, stereotypical way. I can see it coming from a mile away, and it irritates me to no end! Still, I realize persuasion is an important part of sales, and sometimes white lies, the hard sell, etc., will come into play. There’s no other way, right? With that in mind, I chose The Unsold Mindset as this month’s Business Book of the Month, and honestly, it changed the way I think about sales and salespeople.

June 16, 2025 – Braden Business Systems proudly announces that its proprietary IT operations platform, SmartOps, has been named a 2025 MSP Today Product of the Year Award winner by TMC. This prestigious award recognizes cutting-edge managed service solutions that empower organizations to enhance IT productivity, boost operational efficiency, and adapt to evolving technology demands.

Anna Holden, owner of Comfort Keepers Elgin, earned the Quest for Excellence Award for stellar in-home senior care. She helps loved ones thrive in their own homes.

Dream First, Details Later: How to Quit Overthinking and Make It Happen!

Dream First, Details Later is the first book by Ellen Marie Bennet, founder and CEO of Hedley & Bennett, a company that makes kitchen gear and aprons worn by some of the best chefs in the world.

Call or Text: 833-743-7676 support@unitysolargroup.com www.unitysolargroup.com

Elgin has been named one of the best places to live in the United States by U.S. News & World Report, ranking No. 5 among cities in Illinois and earning the No. 122 spot nationally on the publication’s 2025-2026 list of the “250 Best Places to Live in the U.S.”

Flender is expanding and has open positions available for immediate employment, This is an excellent opportunity for job seekers interested in the mechanical engineering and industrial sectors

Police Chief Ana Lalley has been honored with the prestigious Axon Visionary Leadership Award—a national recognition for law enforcement leaders who are driving innovation and community-first policing

Leaders Eat Last: Why Some Teams Pull Together and Others Don't

Leaders Eat Last is the second book by Simon Sinek, author, inspirational speaker, and business leadership expert. Following the success of his extremely popular TED Talk (“How Great Leaders Inspire Action”) and first book (Start with Why),

Five teachers, three administrators, and a coordinator for Elgin Area School District U-46’s homeless education program were recognized recently in the Illinois State Board of Education’s annual Those Who Excel program. In addition, a high school Career and Technical Education teacher was among the finalists for the Golden Apple Award for Excellence in Teaching.

The Tipping Point: How Little Things Can Make a Big Difference

“Look at the world around you. It may seem like an immovable, implacable place. It is not. With the slightest push—in just the right place—it can be tipped.”

The Importance Of Children’s Dental Health

Price 4 Charter Buses & Limos 2024 Year-in-Review — 6,000 Groups Served, 3,600+ Five Star Reviews & 96% Customer Satisfaction!

Join them at The Hemmens Cultural Center for an incredible lineup featuring Gershwin, Mozart, Mendelssohn, Barber, Faure, and the legendary Beethoven’s 5th! And here’s the best part—subscribe now and get Beethoven’s 5th FREE!

Since 2011, Price 4 Limo has been a leading provider of ground transportation

Since 2011, Price 4 Limo has been a leading

Extension of the Elementary School Day For School District U-46

Scheduled to take effect for the 2025-26 school year. Starting on the first day of school, Aug. 11, 2025, all our elementary school days will be extended by a total of 20 minutes each day. This will result in the following shifts: Elementary schools that currently start at 8 a.m. and dismiss at 2 p.m. will instead start at 7:50 a.m. and dismiss at 2:10 p.m. Elementary schools that currently start at 8:30 a.m. and dismiss at 2:30 p.m. will instead start at 8:20 a.m. and dismiss at 2:40 p.m.

ComEd today announced that municipal and community organizations in northern Illinois can now apply for the 2025 Powering Communities Grant Program, which advances environmental initiatives; accelerates public safety and clean transportation projects; and increases access to arts programs in communities ComEd serves. Organizations are encouraged to apply for one of the three annual grant programs: Green Region, Powering Safe Communities, and Powering the Arts. Qualifying proposals are eligible for grants of up to $10,00

Price 4 Limo — America's Highest Rated Prom Limousine & Bus Provider — Gears Up For 2025 Prom Season.

Price 4 Limo is the 3rd most reviewed limo & motorcoach company in the United States out of over 200,000 total companies.

Price 4 Limo is very proud to have just served its 6,000th customer in 2024!

Peggy Heinrich, EdD, is appointed the ninth president of Elgin Community College

The Elgin Community College (ECC) Board of Trustees is proud to announce that it unanimously voted on December 19, 2024, to appoint Peggy Heinrich, EdD, as the ninth president of Elgin Community College.

December 11, 2024

In an exclusive event for the business community, Mayor David Kaptain celebrated Elgin's achievements while planting seeds for the future.

We mourn the loss of our Board member Dr. Rise' Jones who passed away unexpectedly this weekend. Rise' had been a dedicated Board member for three years, and we were thrilled that she had committed to another term starting January 1.

Starting a business is a thrilling endeavor

Starting a business is a thrilling endeavor that requires careful planning and strategic decision-making.

Caregiving can be a lonely and difficult road to navigate.

Caregiving can be a lonely and difficult road to navigate. To continue the journey and not feel alone, there is help with tools and tips for those who need support to cope. The Atrium at Oak Crest is pleased to announce it will hold a monthly dementia caregiver support group on the second Tuesday of every month starting November 12, 2024 from noon to 1:00pm at 204 South State St. in Elgin.