News

Inflation Hits Restaurants, Jobless Claims Edge Higher, Mortgage Rates Rise for Fifth Week

Inflation Hitting Restaurants Profit fell at Darden Restaurants and its sales rose less than Wall Street expected after inflation sent some of the Olive Garden corporate parent’s loyal customers seeking lower-cost options. It’s a trend being seen across the restaurant industry, according to some analysts. Orlando, Florida-based Darden, which operates more than 1,800 full-service restaurants under eight brands that include LongHorn Steakhouse and Seasons 52, reported total sales increased 6.1% from the

Despite Rising Ceiling Heights, Demand Shows There's Still Room for Shorter Warehouses

Industrial construction is booming across the nation, especially in larger markets such as Chicago that offer strong transportation and electrical power infrastructure. These new properties are large, mostly over 300,000 square feet, and built with distinct specifications. One of those specifications has been taller clear heights in response to the growth among large logistics and e-commerce companies such as Amazon that require extra space to stack goods. With these heights, often measuring between 32

Fed Hikes Rates Again, Raising Risk of Recession To Bring Inflation Under Control

For the third time in as many meetings, the Federal Reserve's policy-setting committee raised its target lending rate by three-quarters of a percentage point, the latest step in its aggressive campaign to battle decades-high inflation. The unanimous decision on Wednesday to set the overnight lending target rate for banks to between 3.00% and 3.25% moves interest rates into what the Fed believes is restrictive territory that constrains economic growth, and increases the risks the country could tilt into

Existing Home Sales Extend Fall, Bank CEOs Warn Congress of Economic 'Slowdown'

Existing Home Sales Fall for Seventh Month Sales of existing single-family homes declined for the seventh consecutive month in August, a prominent trade group reported Wednesday, the latest sign of a U.S. housing slowdown. The National Association of Realtors said existing home sales dropped 0.4% from July and 19.9% from August 2021. The median price for existing homes sold during August rose 7.7% from a year earlier, to $389,500. Rising prices and interest rates are among factors cited for an overall

Ring For Eight, Feel Great!

Help The Salvation Army this holiday season by ringing the bells at one of our iconic red kettles any time between November 11 – December 24. We know that if your team rings for eight, they will definitely feel great knowing they are making a positive difference for the most vulnerable in our communities. This is a Fun and easy way to get your company or organization involved! The Details…   •Your team agrees to ring the bells one day for eight hours, or two days of four hours   •Promote your bell

Multifamily Construction Starts Rise to Highest Level Since 1986, but Slowdown Looms

Construction starting on apartment and condominium projects in August hit the highest level in 36 years, but a drop in plans for future building signals a slowdown could be looming. The Commerce Department reported Tuesday that multifamily starts rose 28.6% in August from the prior month to an annual rate of 621,000 units, the highest since April 1986. Those numbers, along with an unexpected increase in single-family housing starts, helped drive overall residential construction starts up to an annual

Office Use Reaches Pandemic High, Housing Construction Starts Rise, Commercial and Multifamily Mortg

Office Use Reaches Pandemic High Big-city office use hit a pandemic high of 47.5% of pre-pandemic attendance for the week that ended Sept. 14 as most major regions remained below 50% in the latest tracking by security technology firm Kastle Systems. Kastle’s 10-city “Back to Work Barometer,” based on anonymous keycard data from clients’ office buildings, had been stuck around 44% for the past several weeks, landing at 43.4% for the week that ended Sept. 7. Kastle officials said early September numbers

U-46 to Host Building Tour and Open House as Part of Unite U-46 Initiative

U-46 to Host Building Tour and Open House   Community members encouraged to visit sites, give feedback on plans for the future, as part of Unite U-46 initiative  ELGIN - School District U-46 is hosting a building tour and an open house this month as part of its Unite U-46 community engagement initiative, giving members of the public a chance to get an inside look at seven school buildings and provide feedback on three different plans to move U-46 schools forward.   Unite U-46, which got underway last

Smart Business Branding in 2022

You've just embarked on one of the most intimidating yet rewarding ventures imaginable — you've started your own small business. While challenging, owning a business can be lucrative and fulfilling. Now that the groundwork for your business has been laid, it's time to consider your company's brand. Creating a strong brand for your company is integral to your success, so where do you start?What Is Branding? Many people believe a logo is the majority of a company's brand. While logos are important,

Holiday Sales Could Toll Bell for Retail Expansion, or Herald Store Closings

The fourth quarter is the most crucial time for the retail industry, and what happens this year could determine if companies keep opening more new stores, delay or scuttle on any expansion plans or simply shut some brick-and-mortar locations in 2023. Analysts are predicting that retail sales overall will remain strong during the holiday season despite inflation, squeezed profit margins, overstocked inventory and other economic headwinds. But not everyone may end up a winner, which could slow the brisk

Homebuilder Sentiment Falls for Ninth Month, Consumer Confidence Rises

Homebuilder Sentiment Falls for Ninth Month Dwindling housing affordability, elevated interest rates and supply chain disruptions have combined to keep homebuilder confidence heading lower for the ninth straight month, according to a prominent industry trade group. The National Association of Home Builders said Monday that builder confidence in the market for new single-family homes fell three points in its September survey to 46. Numbers below 50 generally denote a negative outlook, and the latest number

Inflation May Cut Property Returns, Retail Sales Rise, Applications Drop as Mortgage Rates Top 6%

Inflation May Cut Property Returns Lingering inflation could worsen what some analysts already view as a dour outlook for global real estate investment returns over the next two years, according to forecasting firm Oxford Economics. The U.K.-based firm said Sept. 15 that its “baseline scenario” for commercial and residential real estate calls for annual returns to average 5.2% for 2022-2024. That’s 2.2% below the company’s June forecast for the same time. “However, if inflation were to become embedded,

Manufacturing Activity Declines, Jobless Claim

Manufacturing Activity Declines Manufacturing activity dropped from the prior-month period in the first half of September, according to a regional business survey conducted by the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia. The regional Fed covers business activity in Pennsylvania, New Jersey and Delaware. Results released Thursday from the Fed’s Sept. 6-13 survey of companies showed overall business activity trending downward for the month, with new orders down 13% and shipments down 16% from the prior-month

Elgin Symphony opens 2022-23 season on Oct. 8

    Elgin Symphony Orchestra opens 2022-23 season Saturday, Oct. 8 with music by Dvořák, Marsalis, and ElgarConductor Andres Lopera and Violinist Kelly Hall-Tompkins featured (September 15, 2022 -- Elgin, Ill.)  The Elgin Symphony Orchestra (ESO) ushers in its 73rd season with a program featuring music of Antonin Dvořák, Wynton Marsalis, and Sir Edward Elgar on Saturday, Oct. 8, at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday, Oct. 9, at 2:30 p.m., at the Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way, Elgin, Illinois.   Guest

Don't be a scaredy cat--have some spooky fun!

Fall & Halloween Fun at Gail Borden Library The Library has programs for all ages! Register for programs at gailborden.info/register, by calling 847-429-4597 or in person.Rake-O Family Fall Fest Join us at the Rakow Branch for live music, a pumpkin patch, games for children, a family craft, photo op and treats from 1 to 4 p.m. on September 24. The Rakow Branch is located at 2751 W. Bowes Road in Elgin. No registration is required.Book Party: The Haunted Library  Kids in grades K – 5 will have some

Community Partner Invitation - EPD's Halloween Extravaganza 2022- Join us!

Halloween season is here! Elgin Police Department will be hosting our second annual EPD’s Halloween Extravaganza (SAVE THE DATE FLYER ATTACHED). This event will be on Thursday, October 20th at 5:00pm-7:00pm. We are still in the early stages of planning, but we wanted to reach out to our community neighbors and previous supporters to join us and provide our community with great resources. After the official event flyer is finalized, it will be posted and shared on our EPD’s Facebook Page. Below please find

Teacher Appreciation Weekend at Santa's Village September 24-25

  It’s Teacher Appreciation Weekend at Santa’s Village! Purchase up to 6 tickets for just $19.99 each. You’ll SAVE $13 per ticket! Simply verify your credentials to purchase tickets. Click here: TEACHERS Tickets must be purchased in advance online. Offer valid on September 24 & 25, 2022 only! Enjoy a full day of FUN at Santa’s Village Amusement Park! Parking is always FREE!  

Santas Village 2023 Season Pass ONLY $79.99

2023 Season Pass  $79.99Begin your new memories with a Season Pass! Purchase a season pass and receive admission for the remainder of 2022 as well as May - Sept 2023! Season pass holders receive a host of benefits and valuable discounts on dining, merchandise and more. Passes are valid for unlimited fun on all rides, shows, animal encounters and Santa Springs! Each pass is issued to a specific person and is non-transferable.BENEFITS: - Admission every operating day of the season to both the amusement and

Elgin Symphony Orchestra announces free Listeners Club event

(September 16, 2022 -- Elgin, Ill.) The Elgin Symphony Orchestra invites the public to a free, educational discussion about the composers and music featured in its season opening concert, Enigma Variations. On Tuesday, Oct. 4, from 1 – 2 p.m. at the Barrington Area Library, 505 N. Northwest Highway, Barrington, ESO musicians will discuss Dvořák’s Carnival Overture, Wynton Marsalis’ Violin Concerto, and Elgar’s Enigma Variations. The Listeners Club event is free, but registration is required at

OrthoIllinois Open New Clinic in Elgin

OrthoIllinois Opens New Clinic in Elgin  ELGIN, Ill. (Sept. 9, 2022) – OrthoIllinois, a leading bone and joint health care provider in northern Illinois, expanded access to orthopedic subspecialty services with the opening of its new, larger state-of-the-art, 49,000-square-foot, Elgin clinic at 1550 N. Randall Rd., conveniently located right off the I-90 exit.    Construction on the clinic started in July 2021 and the new location opened on Monday, August 15th. The enhanced facility replaces the former

Slowing Job Growth Seen in Coming Decade, Property and Financial Firms React to Queen’s Death, Impor

Slowing Job Growth Seen in Coming Decade Expectations for slowing U.S. job creation in the next decade, combined with changes already caused by pandemic work-from-home trends, could have far-reaching impacts on corporate real estate decisions. The Labor Department projected on Thursday that employment will grow 0.5% annually for the 2021-2031 period, slower than the 1% annual growth seen in 2011-2021. Total employment is expected to rise to 166.5 million by 2031 from 158.1 million jobs today. Labor

Monthly Apartment Rents Fall in August for First Time in Nearly Two Years

Month-to-month apartment rents fell in August for the first time in nearly two years, sending another signal that the U.S. multifamily market is headed toward normalcy. Asking rents fell 0.1% in August from July at the 40 largest U.S. apartment markets, according to a report released Thursday from CoStar Group's Apartments.com. The decline marks the first monthly decrease since December 2020, when the apartment industry was still dealing with the pandemic’s fallout. None of the 40 metropolitan areas

Elgin's Image Awards Are Back!

The Elgin Area Chamber's Enhancing Elgin Committee (EDG) is excited to be restarting the valuable Elgin Image Awards after a hiatus of several years.  These awards recognize individuals, businesses and organizations that have had a positive impact on Elgin by promoting the positives of why Elgin, IL is a great place to live, work, learn, do business, get involved, visit and enjoy!   We encourage people to nominate a person or an organization, if you know of a project from 2020 - 2022.      Please

Retailers’ Profits Rise, Office Attendance Ticks Up

Retailers’ Profits Rise Despite high-profile struggles of some major chain stores to maintain profit margins against rising costs, the retail world in general saw after-tax profits rise in the second quarter compared with the prior period. Profits were nevertheless down sharply from the year-earlier quarter. Figures released Wednesday showed profits for U.S. retail corporations with assets of $50 million and over totaled $43.5 billion in the second quarter, up $8.9 billion from the first quarter. That was

Congressional Action Dings Federal Deficit, but Inflation Impacts Seen As Minimal

Congress has passed a raft of legislative initiatives over the past several months that have continued the administration’s prioritization of action against climate change and moves to protect the middle class. Many of these programs will cost more than they bring in. Overall, three recent actions are estimated to add roughly $450 billion to the federal deficit over the next 10 years. While that seems a hefty burden, especially in an increasing interest rate environment, it is helpful to view this in

Three U-46 Academies - at Streamwood, Larkin, and Bartlett High Schools - Receive National Certification

Three U-46 Academies Receive National Certification  ‘Magnet’ status given to academies at Streamwood, Larkin, Bartlett     ELGIN - Three of School District U-46’s specialized academies — at Streamwood, Larkin, and Bartlett high schools — have been recognized as nationally certified magnet schools for providing high-quality, innovative educational options to families and students that promote choice, diversity and academic excellence.    Of the two remaining academies in U-46, South Elgin High School’s

Chicago Bears Say Team Will Seek Public Dollars for Suburban Stadium Complex

The Chicago Bears professional football team plans to seek public funding to help pay for a multibillion-dollar mixed-use complex in the northwest suburbs, the organization acknowledged for the first time Tuesday in an open letter to the public ahead of a meeting scheduled for later this week. In the letter, the NFL team does not plan to request public dollars for a stadium portion of the project in Arlington Heights, Illinois, seeking instead an unspecified amount of funding to support the broader

Service Industries See Mixed Growth

Two reports on the nation’s services economy show mixed signals, though there were signs of expanded activity for real estate during in August. Data firm S&P Global reported Tuesday that its monthly gauge of the U.S. service sector contracted in August for the second straight month, as inflation and rising interest rates cut into consumer demand. Financial services were the largest contributor, as S&P Global’s overall services index fell to 43.7 in August from 47.3 in July, with anything below 50

Clean Vehicle Credit comes with caveats

Clean Vehicle Credit comes with caveats  The Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) includes a wide range of tax incentives aimed at combating the dire effects of climate change. One of the provisions receiving considerable attention from consumers is the expansion of the Qualified Plug-in Electric Drive Motor Vehicle Credit (IRC Section 30D), now known as the Clean Vehicle Credit.   While the expanded credit seems promising, questions have arisen about just how immediate its impact will be. Here’s what you need

Back to the Office: Employers Push for a Post-Labor Day Return

Employers have become increasingly adamant in their efforts to get workers to return to the office, with the week after Labor Day emerging as a turning point to reset workplace norms that for more than two years have been upended by the pandemic. Companies ranging from small mom-and-pops to global financial giants are setting the calendar for an early September comeback that, if successful, would finally realize more than two years of efforts to get employees back working in office real estate. Apple,

Unemployment Ticks Up as Job Growth Slows

Unemployment Ticks Up as Job Growth Slows Investors initially celebrated Friday’s August U.S. employment data showing moderate job growth of 315,000 as the jobless rate ticked up to 3.7% from July’s 3.5% by sending stock prices up. Analysts first took the jobs data as a sign that the Federal Reserve may not need to be as persistent with rate hikes as it indicated a week earlier. However, the S&P 500 and Dow Jones Industrials both finished down 1.1% for the day, with the Nasdaq 1.3% lower as investors were

OrthoIllinois Welcomes Husna Siddiqui, M.D. to Medical Team

OrthoIllinois Welcomes Husna Siddiqui, M.D. to Medical Team  ROCKFORD, Ill. (September 6, 2022) – OrthoIllinois, a leading bone and joint health care provider in northern Illinois, continues to expand its medical team, welcoming Rheumatologist Husna Siddiqui M.D. to the organization’s Elgin and McHenry locations this month. In her practice at OrthoIllinois, Dr. Siddiqui treats all varieties of adult rheumatology and autoimmune conditions including arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis,

Restaurants Oppose California Fast-Food Wage Bill, Rail Industry Looks To Avert Strike, Mortgage App

Restaurants Oppose California Fast-Food Wage Measure State and national restaurant groups are opposing a California measure now heading to the desk of Gov. Gavin Newsom that would require higher wages and create a state board overseeing working conditions in the fast-food industry. Franchisees and other business advocates contend the measure could depress restaurant development in the Golden State, among other effects on a restaurant industry already besieged by pandemic-related cost inflation and

Truck Terminals Move Into Fast Lane of Industrial Real Estate Investment

While the commercial real estate industry has been focused on ever-larger industrial warehouses, the low-profile truck terminal has been picking up speed in drawing investors across the country. Sales of U.S. truck terminals more than doubled to a record $1.4 billion over the past four years as the pandemic accelerated the growth of e-commerce and ramped up investor demand for this type of property used in the growing effort to carry goods to doorsteps. That jump in demand preceded the more than $1

IRS Offers Penalty Relief for 2019, 2020 Tax Years

IRS Offers Penalty Relief for 2019, 2020 Tax Years  While the recently announced student loan debt relief has captured numerous headlines, it’s estimated that another federal relief program announced on the same day will provide more than $1.2 billion in tax refunds or credits. Specifically, IRS Notice 2022-36 extends penalty relief to both individuals and businesses who missed the filing deadlines for certain 2019 and/or 2020 tax and information returns. The relief covers many of the most commonly filed

Housing Demand May Face Further Pullback, Job Openings Increase, Office Use Remains Flat

Housing Demand May Face Further PullbackThe Federal Reserve’s latest warnings of higher interest rates are adding to economists’ already downbeat assessments for U.S. housing demand. Economists at financial services firm Goldman Sachs this week predicted little chance of a national rebound at least for the coming year. “We expect home price growth to stall completely, averaging 0% in 2023,” Goldman economists led by Jan Hatzius said in a research note Tuesday. “While outright declines in national home

Why Investors Should Pay Closer Attention to Industrial Labor Supply

After steadily hiring during the pandemic, Amazon found itself in the unusual position of being overstaffed in the second quarter as the spread of the variant subsided and employees returned from leave. In its quarterly earnings call last month, the e-commerce giant disclosed it had 99,000 fewer employees than in the first quarter, pivoting to its lowest hiring rate since 2019 and allowing attrition to reduce the size of its overall staff, primarily in its fulfillment and distribution network. Despite

YWCA Piggy Bank Raffle

 Who wants to win a piggy bank full of cash?!?!?!?! Visit https://bit.ly/PiggyBank22 to purchase your $10 raffle ticket(s) today! Winners will receive $500, $250, or $100 cash. The drawing will be held on Saturday, October 1, 2022, at the YWCA Elgin's As The Leaves Turn Auction. You do not need to be present to win. Proceeds will benefit the YWCA Elgin's Educational programs.  

CENTRO DE INFORMACIÓN NAMES NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

CENTRO DE INFORMACIÓN NAMES NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTORElgin, IL—Dianha Ortega-Ehreth has been named the new Executive Director of Centro de Información, a leading non-profit organization serving Hispanic and immigrant communities in Elgin, Carpentersville, and Hanover Park. Ortega-Ehreth started August 15, 2022 and brings nearly 30 years of professional and volunteer experience working in a variety of non-profit organizations. “We are happy to announce the appointment of Dianha as Centro’s new Executive

July Housing Starts Hit 12-Month Low

National Numbers Fell, Though the Northeast Marked a Bright Spot In a sour sign for U.S. real estate in the near term, U.S. housing starts fell to a 12-month low in July as mortgage rates remained elevated and U.S. consumer sentiment slid further. Seasonally adjusted numbers from the Department of Housing and Urban Development showed starts hitting 1.45 million units in July, a 9.6% drop from the 1.6 million reported in June, a second major decline after starts dropped precipitously in May before ticking

Office Occupancy, Sublet Data Indicate Bleak Future for Business Travel

NASHVILLE, Tennessee — Business-transient demand for hotels has been the slowest segment to rebound since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, and Jan Freitag, national director for hospitality market analytics at CoStar, believes the segment may have permanently shifted. During a session titled “The new leading indicators” at the 2022 Hotel Data Conference, Freitag said he’s pessimistic on the return of business-transient demand. “I am very bearish on this,” he said. Hotel occupancy in urban markets

Fed Chair’s Warnings Spook Stock Markets, Loan Delinquencies Stay Low

Fed Chair’s Warnings Spook Stock Markets Stock markets plunged Friday after comments by Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell indicating that the central bank would continue raising interest rates until inflation is brought down from its current 40-year high of 8.5%. Powell told a summit of bankers in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, that the Fed is focused on raising borrowing rates on a sustained basis, even if it means slowing down hiring, consumer spending and overall growth in the larger economy, according to

US Retail Property Sector in Better Shape Now Than Before the Pandemic

Contrary to the expectations of many industry pundits, the retail property sector is in healthier shape now than before the pandemic. Retail availability rates have declined to their lowest levels since before the Great Recession, while average asking rents for retail spaces throughout the country have increased at their fastest clip in well over a decade. The abrupt turnaround has numerous demand-side drivers, including the trillions of dollars transferred to consumers from the U.S. government to

Pending Home Sales Drop, Durable Goods Orders Decline

Pending Home Sales, Mortgage Applications Drop Existing homes under contract to be sold, deemed a key forward-looking indicator of overall buying activity, dropped 1% from the prior month in July. It was the second straight monthly decline and the eighth in the past nine months, joining other signs of a slowing housing market, the National Association of Realtors reported Wednesday. “In terms of the current housing cycle, we may be at or close to the bottom in contract signings,” the trade group’s chief

As Cannabis Sales Fall, Industry Begins To Reevaluate Some Real Estate

Aspen Forest is more than a small operator of two indoor cannabis cultivation farms and a dispensary that was put on the market this year as sales fell. It’s the latest sign that increased legalization of marijuana isn’t creating the demand the commercial real estate industry was banking on, leading some owners to rethink their holdings and even put property up for sale. The owner of Aspen Forest, publicly traded Israeli company Vonetize, said it’s pursuing the operator's sale after the Colorado cannabis

Sales and costs up at Sanfilippo & Son

ELGIN — John B. Sanfilippo & Son Inc. said net income for its 2022 fiscal year was $61.8 million, or $5.33 per share diluted, compared to net income of $59.7 million, or $5.17 per share diluted, for fiscal 2021. Sanfilippo & Son is a processor, packager, marketer and distributor of Fisher peanuts and other nut and dried fruit brands. The company's fiscal year ended June 30. For fiscal 2022, net sales increased 11.3% to $955.9 million from $858.5 million for fiscal 2021. The increase in net sales was

Housing Affordability: Going, Going, Gone!

Housing Affordability: Going, Going, Gone! The combination of higher mortgage rates as the Federal Reserve tries to tame inflation and sky-high housing prices continues to cut into housing affordability, driving more prospective buyers out of the market.The National Association of Realtors provides a measure capturing just how easy — or difficult — it is to buy a house. Its housing affordability index fell to 98.5 in June, its lowest level in over 33 years, meaning that properties have become even less

Consumers Splurge on Coffee Shop Visits, New Home Sales Hit Six-Year Low, Office Attendance Posts Sl

Consumers Splurge on Coffee Shop Visits Uncertain times have consumers cutting back on non-essential spending, but caffeine cravings at $5 or more per cup have so far been relatively unscathed. June spending at U.S. coffee shops and bakery cafés rose 1.9% from a year earlier, even as overall restaurant spending declined 3.1%, according to a report from financial services provider Rabobank and data analytics firm Earnest Research. Analysts attribute the rise to various reasons, including more people

World Leaders Forum Inspirational Series Features Edward James Olmos and Rick Najera

World Leaders Forum Inspirational Series Features Edward James Olmos and Rick NajeraHosted by Jacqueline Ruiz (ELGIN, IL August 22, 2022) – The World Leaders Forum Inspirational Series featuring actor, director and producer Edward James Olmos was held Monday, August 22, at Judson University in Elgin.  More than 400 attendees came to Judson’s Herrick Chapel to hear Olmos speak. Olmos is best known for his roles as Lieutenant Martin “Marty” Castillo in “Miami Vice” (1984–1989) and has appeared in

New Wedding Hub Planned for Elgin

THE HIGHLAND LOFT EVENT VENUE PLANS NEW WEDDING HUB IN ELGINBuilding Purchase Paves Way for Expansion with Two New Venues Revealed Aug. 28  Elgin, IL (August 22, 2022) – The owners of The Highland Loft, a 19,500 square foot wedding venue at 168 E. Highland Avenue in Elgin have undertaken a buildout that adds two additional venue spaces to the property, with the potential for more to come. The most recent renovations are set to be revealed at a grand opening and expo on August 28.   Marilyn and Darren

ESO news: musicians' contract agreement, new concerts, fiscal stability, enhanced community engagem

ESO, Musicians agree to two-year contract, helping secure fiscal sustainability while enhancing community engagement  (August 17, 2022 -- Elgin, Ill.) The Elgin Symphony Orchestra (ESO) and its musicians have agreed on a mutually beneficial two-year contract that lays the groundwork for sustainability and growth for the award-winning Symphony, now in its 73rd year. The agreement comes as the ESO enters its second season of new management, is actively auditioning music director candidates, and plans for

School District U-46 Welcomes Students on Aug. 16 - 2022-23 School Year to see Expansion of U-46 Ris

School District U-46 Welcomes Students  on Aug. 16 2022-23 school year to see expansion of U-46 Rising  ELGIN - Classes resume Tuesday, Aug. 16 for more than 36,000 kindergartners through 12th graders across School District U-46. The school year promises continued innovation and excellence, including an award-winning Dual Language program that stretches from PreK through 12th grade and the expansion of U-46 Rising, a system-wide intentional focus to improve core instruction.   “U-46 team members across

OrthoIllinois Welcomes Neal Shah, M.D. to Medical Team

OrthoIllinois Welcomes Neal Shah, M.D. to Medical Team  ROCKFORD, Ill. (Aug. 15, 2022) – OrthoIllinois, a leading bone and joint health care provider in northern Illinois, continues to expand its medical team, welcoming Interventional Pain Management physician Neal Shah, M.D. to the organization’s Elgin location this month. In his practice at OrthoIllinois, Dr. Shah treats patients with chronic pain conditions. He has a special interest in regional anesthetic options and advanced therapies like

Gov. Pritzker Announces $34.6 Billion Investment in Transportation Over Six Years

Gov. Pritzker Announces $34.6 Billion Investment in Transportation Over Six YearsNew program creates economic opportunity and jobs, promotes quality of life, and improves safety on transportation systems throughout Illinois  SPRINGFIELD — Governor JB Pritzker joined the Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) today to announce a $34.6 billion program to improve roads, bridges, transit, rail, airports, and ports over the next six years. This funding represents a robust commitment to invest in people

Gov. Pritzker Announces Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly to Expand Choices in Care for

Gov. Pritzker Announces Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly to Expand Choices in Care for Illinois SeniorsServices for qualifying adults 55+ include holistic care planning, long term supports, therapies, medications, mental health care, and hospital care SPRINGFIELD — Governor JB Pritzker along with the Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) today announced the launch of the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) to better meet the needs of older adults across Illinois.

Congregation Kneseth Israel to Celebrate 130 Years

Congregation Kneseth Israel to Celebrate 130 Years  Since 1892, Congregation Kneseth Israel has been the heart of the Jewish Community in the Fox River Valley. Congregation Kneseth Israel (CKI) is extremely proud to be celebrating its 130th Anniversary this year with a number of exciting events.   Over the years, the congregation has changed to reflect the needs and demographics of the congregation. "In an age when too many congregations are faltering, it is not enough to survive; we need to create

CHIPS Act poised to boost U.S. businesses

CHIPS Act poised to boost U.S. businesses  The Creating Helpful Incentives to Produce Semiconductors for America Act (CHIPS Act) was recently passed by Congress as part of the CHIPS and Science Act of 2022. President Biden is expected to sign it into law shortly. Among other things, the $52 billion package provides generous tax incentives to increase domestic production of semiconductors, also known as chips. While the incentives themselves are narrowly targeted, the expansion of semiconductor production

Governor Pritzker Issues Monkeypox Virus Public Health Emergency Declaration to Coordinate Statewide

Governor Pritzker Issues Monkeypox Virus Public Health Emergency Declaration to Coordinate Statewide ResponseCHICAGO—Governor Pritzker issued a proclamation today declaring the monkeypox virus a public health emergency and declaring the state of Illinois a disaster area regarding the disease. The declaration, which applies to the entire state, will allow the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) to utilize resources for coordinating logistics across state agencies, quickly and efficiently aid in the

Illinois Department of Labor Finalizes Domestic Worker Rules

Illinois Department of Labor Finalizes Domestic Worker RulesClarifies compensable hours, record keeping, standards for meals and lodging  SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Labor (IDOL) has finalized rules for the employment of domestic workers to better define pay, record keeping, and other requirements that apply to domestic work.   The rules follow a statutory change that extended the protections of the Minimum Wage Law to domestic workers, who had previously been excluded from

Businesses: Act Now to Make the Most out of Bonus Depreciation

Businesses: Act now to make the most out of bonus depreciation  The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (TCJA) significantly boosted the potential value of bonus depreciation for taxpayers — but only for a limited duration. The amount of first-year depreciation available as a so-called bonus will begin to drop from 100% after 2022, and businesses should plan accordingly.  Bonus depreciation in a nutshell   Bonus depreciation has been available in varying amounts for some time. Immediately prior to the passage of the

On the Block: A Discussion on the Proposed ''Labor Rights'' Amendment

On the Block: A Discussion on the Proposed "Labor Rights" Amendment  Recently, Chamber President & CEO Todd Maisch had the opportunity to appear on WCIU-TV in Chicago for an episode of "On the Block" hosted by Brandon Pope. The segment was centered around SJRCA11, a proposed amendment to the state constitution that will appear on ballots this fall. Maisch spoke in opposition. This amendment would permanently enshrine pro-labor legislative desires into the state constitution and says the

Help Prevent Prescription Drug Cost Increases - A Message from President & CEO Maisch

Help Prevent Prescription Drug Cost Increases - A Message from President & CEO Maisch  This past legislative session, Illinois lawmakers came very close to passing legislation that would have increased the cost of prescription drugs, and we need to make sure they don’t try it again. That’s why the Illinois Chamber is leading a new initiative to urge lawmakers to find real solutions to address prescription drug costs, instead of implementing misguided government mandates that do nothing to improve access or

Gov. Pritzker Announces Record-Breaking $445 Million in FY 2022 Adult-Use Cannabis Tax Revenue

Gov. Pritzker Announces Record-Breaking $445 Million in FY 2022 Adult-Use Cannabis Tax Revenue50% Increase in Total Tax Reported from Adult-Use Cannabis as Sales Exceed $1.5 Billion CHICAGO – Governor JB Pritzker announced today that the State of Illinois has seen a 50% increase in total tax reported from adult-use cannabis, from $297.7 million in fiscal year 2021 to $445.3 million in fiscal year 2022. Total adult-use cannabis sales also rose 50%, increasing from $1 billion to $1.5 billion,

Russo Power Equipment is Putting Down Roots in Wisconsin

Russo Power Equipment is Putting Down Roots in Wisconsin New Berlin, WI: Russo Power Equipment, as a top dealer of land maintenance equipment and parts, is bringing more than 50 years of industry expertise to the Greater Milwaukee area later this year. The company’s newest location features a large showroom as well as an extensive warehouse and expert-level service department. This area is the perfect region to expand Russo’s footprint because of its numerous municipalities, impressive Parks & Rec

Governor Pritzker Announces $60 Million Competitive Grant Program for Early Childhood Construction i

Governor Pritzker Announces $60 Million Competitive Grant Program for Early Childhood Construction in IllinoisFunding will support the construction, expansion, and renovation of facilities that support early student learning Springfield – Governor JB Pritzker has announced $60 million in capital grant opportunities for Illinois Early Childhood Education providers through the Rebuild Illinois Capital Program. The funding will support the construction, expansion, and renovation of facilities that support

Unemployment Claims Continue to Reach Record Lows, Illinois Labor Market Strengthening

Unemployment Claims Continue to Reach Record Lows, Illinois Labor Market StrengtheningSPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) announced today the state has reached a new historic low of continued claims for regular state unemployment insurance benefits since the beginning of the series in January 1987. Illinois has remained below the previously recorded low of 70,454 continued claims for ten consecutive weeks. The most recent data reflects claims levels below that threshold to a

Illinois expands health care coverage for immigrant adults to include those aged 42 and up

Illinois expands health care coverage for immigrant adults to include those aged 42 and upSPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services is expanding the Health Benefits for Immigrant Adults program to now provide health care coverage to undocumented immigrant adults and certain legal permanent residents aged 42 and over.   Building on the first-in-the-nation Health Benefits for Immigrant Seniors program, Illinois in March launched the Health Benefits for Immigrant Adults program

Public meeting July 28 on development new statewide electric vehicle infrastructure plan

Public meeting July 28 on development new statewide electric vehicle infrastructure planSPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Transportation announced today that it will host a virtual public meeting July 28 to provide information and get feedback on the development of the state’s National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure plan, the latest in Gov. JB Pritzker’s efforts to have one million electric vehicles registered in Illinois by 2030.   “Illinois has emerged as a leader in embracing electric vehicles

The City of Elgin designates additional parks and green spaces as Pesticide Free Zones

The City of Elgin designates additional parks and green spaces as Pesticide Free Zones   Elgin triples its number of Pesticide Free Zones across the cityElgin, IL - The City of Elgin has expanded its number of sites designated as "Pesticide Free Zones." Synthetic pesticide applications have now been discontinued at total of approximately 26.45 acres of parkland and green space citywide. A site map is available at cityofelgin.org/pesticidefree. “We are always looking for opportunities to offer sustainable

Alignment Welcomes Adriana Armstrong as Executive Assistant

Adriana Armstrong joined the Alignment team as its executive assistant in June. Previously, she worked as the Director of Athletic Operations and Middle School Administrative Assistant for Westminster Christian School in Elgin. Her experience there included mentoring students and teachers along with facilitating communications to parents. She also coordinated event planning, athletic schedules, and departmental budgeting.    Adriana is actively involved in the community serving on the Streamwood Park

'Block Party in a Box'' rolled out to Elgin residents

‘Block Party in a Box’ rolled out to Elgin residents  Reservations available on a first-come, first-served basisElgin, IL - The City of Elgin announces its ‘Block Party in a Box’ is available for reservations. The ‘Block Party in a Box’ (BPB) is a trailer filled with all things necessary to host a block party and get to know your neighbors: tables, chairs, pop-up tents, entertainment and yard games, barricades and safety signs. The BPB is free to reserve, and City staff will handle drop-off and pick-up.

Are You Eligible For Federal & State Fuel Tax Credits?

988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline Coming to Illinois

Pritzker Administration Announces Opening of Electric Vehicle Rebate Program for Illinois Residents

Pritzker Administration Announces Opening of Electric Vehicle Rebate Program for Illinois ResidentsProgram offers $4,000 rebate for purchase of an electric passenger vehicle or $1,500 rebate for purchase of an electric motorcycle  SPRINGFIELD — Illinois Environmental Protection Agency (IEPA) Director John J. Kim today announced the opening of Illinois’ Electric Vehicle (EV) Rebate Program. The program was created under the Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA) passed by the General Assembly and signed by

Illinois Family Relief Plan to Begin July 1

Illinois Family Relief Plan to Begin July 1   Residents will save on gas, groceries, property taxes, and school supplies with tax holidays. Nearly $2 billion in relief was provided to residents through tax cuts and direct payments. Comptroller plans to roll out tax rebates in September CHICAGO — Beginning tomorrow, the Illinois Family Relief Plan will go into effect, making good on the promise by Governor Pritzker and the General Assembly to provide relief on the grocery tax, gas tax, and property

Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois Appoints Dr. Kari Rockwell as New CEO

Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois Appoints Dr. Kari Rockwell as New CEO Northern Illinois – Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois (GSNI) announced today that Dr. Kari Rockwell has been appointed new CEO of the organization. Dr. Rockwell will succeed current CEO Fiona Cummings and assume responsibilities on August 1, 2022. Cummings has served as the organization’s CEO since 2013 and will be retiring on June 30, 2022.   Dr. Rockwell brings decades of educational leadership to her new position at GSNI. Formerly

U-46 Board of Education to Honor Financial Services Department

U-46 Board of Education to Honor Financial Services Department  Department recognized for its clear and transparent financial reports    ELGIN - School District U-46’s Financial Services department will be honored with an “Accent on Achievement” during Monday night’s Board of Education meeting. The department recently earned two awards for producing clear and transparent financial reports.   The Association of School Business Officials International (ASBO) awarded the District with a Certificate of

Statewide Unemployment Rate Stable, Payroll Jobs Up in May

Statewide Unemployment Rate Stable, Payroll Jobs Up in May   SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Department of Employment Security (IDES) announced today that the unemployment rate was unchanged at 4.6 percent, while nonfarm payrolls increased by +12,800 in May, based on preliminary data provided by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) and released by IDES. The April monthly change in payrolls was revised from the preliminary report, from +9,300 to +6,400 jobs. The April unemployment rate was unchanged from

Gov. Pritzker Signs Legislation to Modernize Infrastructure Improvement Process

Gov. Pritzker Signs Legislation to Modernize Infrastructure Improvement ProcessDesign-build project delivery method bolsters Gov. Pritzker’s historic capital program, improving infrastructure throughout Illinois  CHICAGO – Gov. JB Pritzker today signed into law legislation allowing for the implementation of design-build project delivery, an efficient, alternative method for completing the state’s infrastructure improvements.   Senate Bill 2981 creates the Innovations for Transportation Infrastructure

Gov. Pritzker Announces Nation-Leading Investments in Early Childhood

Gov. Pritzker Announces Nation-Leading Investments in Early ChildhoodOver $175 million in funding to support child care providers & families   CHICAGO — Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) today announced new investments that strengthen and grow Illinois’ early childhood education and care field. These investments continue advancing Illinois as a leading state in the nation for children, families, and the early childhood workforce that support them.   The changes

Governor Pritzker Signs Family Bereavement Leave Act Into Law

Governor Pritzker Signs Family Bereavement Leave Act Into LawSB3120 requires paid leave for pregnancy loss or other situations impacting fertility, adoption, or pregnancy Chicago—Governor JB Pritzker today signed the Family Bereavement Act, an amendment to the Child Bereavement Leave Act that expands leave time requirements to cover pregnancy loss, failed adoptions, unsuccessful reproductive procedures, and other diagnoses or events impacting pregnancy and fertility. SB3120 also mandates leave after the

Gov. Pritzker Signs Legislation to Expand Access to Higher Education

Gov. Pritzker Signs Legislation to Expand Access to Higher EducationBills aimed at increasing education equity across Illinois CHICAGO — Governor JB Pritzker today signed legislation designed to increase access to Illinois’ higher education system, close equity gaps, and improve student protections and operational effectiveness. The bills expand resources available to students and build on the administration’s efforts to expand equitable access to public universities and community colleges.  House Bill

Elgin announces Parks and Recreation Master Plan process

Elgin announces Parks and Recreation Master Plan process   June 15 public meeting will kick off the Elgin Parks and Recreation Master Plan development processElgin, IL - The City of Elgin Parks and Recreation Department will kick off its master plan development process with a public meeting on Wednesday, June 15 from 6:00 to 8:00 p.m. at the Heritage Ballroom in the Edward Schock Centre of Elgin, located at 100 Symphony Way in Elgin. The meeting will be held in an open house format, so the public can

City of Elgin to Participate in National ‘Arts & Economic Prosperity 6’ Study

  City of Elgin to participate in the national ‘Arts & Economic Prosperity 6’ study       Ishti is performing in the Going Dutch Festival presented by Side Street Studio Arts at the Elgin Art Showcase. Photo by Roberto Martinez, 2017.       Data collection for a most comprehensive study of the economic impact of nonprofit arts and culture industry underwayElgin, IL - The City of Elgin is pleased to announce its

Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois Announce 2022 Gold Award Girl Scouts and Scholarship Recipients at

Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois Announce 2022 Gold Award Girl Scouts and Scholarship Recipients at Annual Meeting Northern Illinois - Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois (GSNI) announced the 2022 class of Gold Award Girl Scouts and scholarship recipients at its Annual Meeting on Saturday, April 30, at the NIU Barsema Alumni Visitors Center in DeKalb.   Earning the Gold Award is the highest achievement in Girl Scouting. Gold Award Girl Scouts are recognized leaders in their communities. As they partner

Elgin YWCA recognizes 2022 Leader Luncheon recipients

Elgin YWCA recognizes 2022 Leader Luncheon recipients    Over 350 community members attended the 38th annual YWCA Elgin Leader Luncheon Awards at The Seville in Streamwood on Thursday, May 12, 2022.     As the luncheon began, Leader Luncheon general chair Jennifer Rakow expressed appreciation to the event’s major sponsors for their support with congratulations to past recipients and all 2022 nominees. Following an invocation by Captain Linnea Forney of the Salvation Army in Elgin, keynote speaker Sharon

ComEd/Exelon Racial Equity Capital Fund Update

Exelon-FUNDED $36 Million Racial equity Capital fund, administered by rockcreek, ACCEPTING applications from minority-Owned Businesses in SERVICE AREAS  RockCreek-managed fund, in partnership with minority banks and community-based lending institutions, will provide needed capital to help minority-owned businesses grow, create jobs, and expand in underserved and under-resourced communities served by Exelon. Chicago, Ill. (May 4, 2022) – Exelon announced today that RockCreek, one of the world’s largest

Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois Announce Top 10 Girl Scout Cookie Entrepreneurs for 2022

Girl Scouts of Northern Illinois Announce Top 10 Girl Scout Cookie Entrepreneurs for 2022   Northern Illinois – From December 13, 2021–March 27, 2022, local Girl Scouts sold Girl Scout Cookies in innovative ways while dealing with unprecedented cookie inventory challenges. Girl Scouts sold cookies virtually on their cookie business websites, hosted pop-up cookie booths in their neighborhoods, worked with DoorDash through a new national partnership, and sold cookies safely in-person door-to-door or at

Judson University Celebrates 188 Graduates During Spring Commencement 2022

Judson University Celebrates 188 Graduates During Spring Commencement 2022               (ELGIN, IL – May 7, 2022) Judson University celebrated188 graduates during the 87th commencement ceremonies on Saturday, May 7.  Three-time Olympian Tracy Evans Land gave the keynote address to graduates in ceremonies at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. in Herrick Chapel (1151 N. State St., Elgin).   National Champion and Olympian Tracy Evans Land invited Judson’s graduates to create a masterpiece of their lives by focusing

ECKER CENTER SPRING FUNDRAISER “SELF CARE FOR MENTAL HEALTH”

ECKER CENTER SPRING FUNDRAISER “SELF CARE FOR MENTAL HEALTH” ELGIN, IL, April 2022 – Ecker Center for Behavioral Health will be offering the community a new means of supporting their cause this spring by kicking off Mental Health Awareness Month with a virtual event themed “Self-Care for Mental Health.”  There are a variety of ways in which supporters may participate in this event, as follows:  Order a May Day Basket filled with fresh flowers and other goodies just in time for May Day.Join a Self-Care

Elgin Community College launching grant-funded recovery support specialist programs this fall

Elgin Community College launching grant-funded recovery support specialist programs this fall   Elgin Community College is among a select few Illinois colleges to be awarded a state grant by the Illinois Department of Human Services to support a new program for Certified Recovery Support Specialists and Certified Peer Recovery Specialists, according to a news release from the college. The program will begin accepting applications this spring, with classes launching in the fall. ECC is one of only

TraducciónNow Language Service Provider EARNS BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU ACCREDITATION

TraducciónNow Language Service Provider EARNS BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU ACCREDITATION  Elgin, IL – April 9, 2022 - Becoming an Accredited Business with the Better Business Bureau is an honor not accorded to all businesses; because not all businesses meet eligibility standards. TraducciónNow Language Service Provider is pleased to announce today that it has met all BBB standards and is now an Accredited Business. “Accreditation in the BBB is by invitation only” says Steve J. Bernas, president & CEO of the

Kane County Health Department Celebrates One Year Anniversary of IRIS

Kane County Health Department Celebrates One Year Anniversary of IRISApril 7, 2022- The Kane County Health Department’s (KCHD) Integrated Referral & Intake System (IRIS) celebrated its first year of providing Kane County individuals and families access to services they need. This free, web-based communication tool created by the University of Kansas helps organizations connect the families they serve to the right resources in the community, providing transparency to the organizations and a closed loop for

HIGHWAY 20 DESIGNATED AS MEDAL OF HONOR HIGHWAY

HIGHWAY 20 DESIGNATED AS MEDAL OF HONOR HIGHWAYIllinois passes SJR 28 to honor Illinois’ Medal of Honor recipients  Senate Joint Resolution 28 designating U.S. Highway 20 as Medal of Honor Highway unanimously passed today as Illinois joins the effort to rename the 3,365 miles of Highway 20 spanning the nation from the Pacific to Atlantic Oceans. “This partnership of states honoring their Medal of Honor recipients amplifies our deep appreciation and recognition of their heroism,” said IDVA Director Terry

Following ICC Request, Largest Regulated Electric and Gas Utilities Offer Consumer Protections to Pr

Following ICC Request, Largest Regulated Electric and Gas Utilities Offer Consumer Protections to Prevent DisconnectionsChicago, IL - At the request of the ICC and consumer advocate groups, Illinois’ largest investor-owned electric and gas companies have agreed to make available more flexible, and generous deferred payment arrangements for low-income customers unable to pay utility bills fully or on time due to COVID 19 and inflation. Partners in this effort include the Office of the Illinois Attorney

Elgin Symphony Orchestra announces 2022-23 season schedule

Elgin Symphony Orchestra announces 2022-23 season schedule  New family-friendly pricing allows a family of 4 to attend for $40  (March 25, 2022 -- Elgin, Ill.) The award-winning Elgin Symphony Orchestra (ESO) announced its 2022-23 season schedule at its Prelude Reception Thursday, March 24, at Highland Lofts in Elgin, Illinois. The ESO’s 73rd season is filled with masterpieces by both contemporary and historic composers, as well as holiday concerts. Tickets are now on sale at www.ElginSymphony.org, or

Elgin Symphony Orchestra announces finalists in music director search

Elgin Symphony Orchestra announces finalists in music director search  (March 25, 2022 -- Elgin, Ill.) Eight notable music conductors have been named finalists in the music director search by the Elgin Symphony Orchestra. The two-year search process kicked off last year when Andrew Grams announced he would depart at the end of the 2020-21 season. The new music director will be announced at the conclusion of the 2022-23 season. One of the finalists was a guest conductor in the ESO’s 2021-22 season.

City of Elgin launches community solar program

 Community solar subscriptions now available to Elgin residents and small businessesElgin, IL - Elgin residents and small businesses can save money on electric bills and help develop the solar industry in Illinois thanks to a new City-sponsored community solar program. Community solar program subscribers receive credits on their ComEd accounts, reducing the energy supply charges on their monthly bills by $100 per year on average. There are no credit checks, enrollment fees or termination

COMCAST RISE APPLICATIONS NOW OPEN TO ALL WOMEN-OWNED SMALL BUSINESSES

In its first year alone, Comcast RISE has provided over $60 million in grants, marketing and technology services to support more than 6,700 small businesses owned by people of color in Comcast’s national footprint – including nearly 550 in the company’s Greater Chicago Region  With the expansion to all women-owned small businesses, the program is on track to support 13,000 businesses by the end of 2022. CHICAGO (January 19, 2022) – Comcast announced today that its Comcast RISE program is open to all

This Elgin-based business is hitting a milestone that most small businesses dream of accomplishing

Meet brothers Kurt (right) and Keith (left) Claussner of Modern Business Computing (MBC). This Elgin-based business is hitting a milestone that most small businesses dream of accomplishing!  Owner Kurt Claussner founded Modern Business Computing (MBC) in 1992 with the concept when you consistently proving clients with quality products and dedicated service, they will come back time and time again. He was right. Not only did clients come back but MBC retained customers long-term AND obtained valuable