School District U-46 is inviting the community to submit nominations to help name the new middle school currently under construction in Elgin. The school is expected to be open to welcome sixth, seventh, and eighth grade students for the 2027-28 school year. Through September 19, students, parents, employees, alumni, and community members can submit name suggestions online. Nominations must follow Board Pol

Elgin continues to grow its community electric vehicle charging network, with new installations planned for high-traffic public destinations by the end of 2025. Since completing the EV Readiness Program in 2024 through the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus, the city has installed four public chargers with eight ports at the Robert Gilliam Municipal Complex and the Centre of Elgin parking deck. Those chargers have logged nearly 2,000 connections this year.

Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity

This August, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) is celebrating National Black Business Month. Throughout the month, DCEO, through its office of Office of Economic Equity & Empowerment (OE3), will be uplifting Black businesses and entrepreneurs across Illinois through a series of events and social media campaigns. Find information about events and resources below.

Weekly Update - Funding Opportunities for Businesses from DCEO

The public is invited to share input on ways to improve street and sidewalk accessibility as part of the city of Elgin’s Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Transition Plan.

The Elgin Historic House Tour returns for its 43rd year, offering residents and visitors a rare chance to step inside some of the city’s most architecturally and historically significant homes.

Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity

2025 National Black Business Month Toolkit Voices of Change: Elevating Black Businesses This August, the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) is celebrating National Black Business Month. Throughout the month, DCEO, through its office of Office of Economic Equity & Empowerment (OE3), will be uplifting Black businesses and entrepreneurs across Illinois through a series of events and social media campaigns. Find information about events and resources below.

Office of Economic Equity & Empowerment (OE3) Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity

Here is the weekly update on funding opportunities per the request of the Latinx Business Colectivo – Funding Opportunities working group.

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.

Tariffs are having a real and devastating impact on thousands of small businesses across the nation as uncertainty, rising costs, and cancellations are hitting home.

Two local organizations are teaming up once again to present a major celebration of Mexican culture. Organizers hope to build on the enthusiasm from last year’s event, when they expected 500 participants but nearly double that number showed up. A unique display, marketplace festival, and 5K will showcase the community’s diversity while raising funds to support the thousands of residents served by both School District U-46 and the Gail Borden Public Library District. We thank the City of Elgin for being a co-sponsor.

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

The Central 301 Board of Education has officially launched the process to find our next Superintendent of Schools. Choosing our next superintendent is a critical decision, and we’re committed to keeping our community informed and involved throughout the process.

On June 16, 2025, Governor Pritzker signed House Bill 2755, the FY 2026 Revenue Omnibus Act into law. It’s the only bill in this year’s budget package making permanent, substantive changes to Illinois’ tax code. Most provisions take effect for tax years ending on or after December 31, 2025. Below is a distilled overview of the income-tax provisions with the biggest planning and compliance impacts.

Written By: Mark Gallegos, CPA, MST, Partner & Rachel VonDrasek, CPA, MST, Porte Brown On June 16, 2025, Governor Pritzker signed House Bill 2755, the Fiscal Year 2026 Revenue Omnibus Act, into law. In addition to income-tax updates, HB 2755 enacts several important changes to Illinois’ indirect and sales-tax regime. Most become effective mid-2025 through early 2026. Below is an overview of the headline sales-tax provisions and what they mean for your business.

Our mission is connecting people to greater possibilities in Illinois. That’s why we’re excited to share in Illinois, we invested nearly $4.8 billion in our network infrastructure from 2020-2024. We are proud to make that major investment in Illinois. It demonstrates our commitment to the connectivity needed to power economic growth and create opportunities for people throughout the state. Read more to see some of the highlights of our work across the state:

South Elgin, IL — Bear Family Restaurants President David A. Bear has been selected as a 2025 Marquis Who’s Who Distinguished Leader, an honor recognizing exceptional professionals who have made significant contributions in their fields and communities. The announcement was celebrated with a quarter-page feature in The Wall Street Journal on July 10, 2025.

The One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA), enacted on July 4, 2025, as Pub. L. No. 119-21, permanently extends and modifies key provisions from the 2017 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) while introducing new tax benefits and limitations. The law affects individuals, seniors, children, businesses, and charitable organizations, aiming to simplify long-term tax planning by making many provisions permanent. However, some benefits, such as clean energy credits and senior deductions, have temporary sunsets, and complexities arise wi

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.

Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity

Regional Update for Northeast Illinois

Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity

Clean Energy Career Pathway Program Description: “The Clean Energy Career Pathway Program will provide funding directly to eligible recipients to support the planning and implementation of a Clean Energy Career Pathway. Programs will include coursework, field experiences, and work-based learning designed to prepare students for entrance into careers focusing on clean energy. To ensure equitable pathways for students, this funding opportunity seeks qualified, eligible entities working with secondary school students in pa

John B. Sanfilippo & Son, Inc. (NASDAQ: JBSS) (the “Company”) today announced that its Board of Directors (the “Board”) declared a special cash dividend (the “Special Dividend”) of $0.60 per share on all issued and outstanding shares of Common Stock of the Company and $0.60 per share on all issued and outstanding shares of Class A Common Stock of the Company.

South Elgin’s own Fox River Trolley Association received $3,561 to complete exterior restoration of Soo Line caboose No. 130!

The National Railroad Historical Society announced in June that it had awarded $150,000 in grants to 31 organizations across the country as part of its annual Heritage Grants program.

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.

Service center extension to feature an expansive warehouse, in-house gear regrinding, and consolidated storage. Official groundbreaking ceremony held with local government representatives. Start of operations scheduled for February 2026.

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.

Cherry Bekaert (the Firm) is pleased to announce the acquisition of Spicer Jeffries LLP (Spicer Jeffries), a leading CPA firm specializing in providing audit, tax, accounting and consulting services to the securities industry.

No matter your lifestyle or life stage, TBK Bank is here to support your financial future. Reach your savings goals and access the everyday banking services you need at TBK Bank.

Refer friends and family for a new checking account and earn a $75 Mastercard Reward Card for each new account opened that meets the qualifying criteria, up to $500 per year.

Nine shows have been scheduled so far at The Hemmens Cultural Center as the 56-year-old Elgin venue moves into its full first season following the completion of its $14.4 million expansion and renovation.

Gail Borden Public Library District’s South Elgin branch, closed since August 2024 for renovation and expansion, reopens Saturday in grand fashion, with live music, giveaways, a scavenger hunt and other activities planned.

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.

Pre-register now for YWCA Elgin’s free English as a Second Language (ESL) classes. Morning, evening, online, and in-person options available at Elgin and Dundee locations. Placement testing required

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.”

Unique Health Now provides patients with longer visits, direct physician access, and personalized care plans that support long-term health and quality of life. Whether your goals are prevention, weight management, or strength optimization, our clinic delivers the tools and guidance to help you feel your best.

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.”

Patricia M. Szpekowski, APR, president of PR Strategies & Communications, Inc./PmS advertising, inc. in Elgin, has received recognition from the Illinois Woman’s Press Association

Patricia M. Szpekowski, APR, president of PR Strategies & Communications, Inc./PmS advertising, inc. in Elgin, has received recognition from the Illinois Woman’s Press Association (IWPA), an affiliate of the National Federation of Press Women (NFPW), in its recent 2025 communications contest.

At Dogtopia of South Elgin, we believe in the life-changing bond between dogs and people.

At Dogtopia of South Elgin, we believe in the life-changing bond between dogs and people. That’s why we’re thrilled to introduce Ram, a Golden Retriever currently in training at K9s for Warriors!

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.

Habitat for Humanity of NFV is excited to announce our 2025 Art Sculpture Event, Home Planet Earth! Fiberglass sculptures will be on display on streets, sidewalks and parks in Elgin, Carpentersville, and East and West Dundee all summer bringing a ‘buzz’ to the community and sustainability awareness.

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.