The Fox Valley Villages Sun News

Holiday lights to shine

By MARISSA AMONI For Sun-Times Media — 12:01 AM, Nov 22, 2009

Phillips Park will shine brightly this week as the Aurora Festival of Lights turns the power switch on for the month-long outdoor holiday light display. Volunteers will welcome carloads of spectators to the display of Santas, reindeers, candy canes, Old Man Winter, lighted trees and more from Friday until Dec. 27.

United Way invites public to join children's gift drive

From Staff Reports — 12:01 AM, Nov 22, 2009

The Fox Valley United Way has a special wish this season: To brighten the holidays for local families hit hard by the faltering economy.

West launches Fund-A-Need

12:01 AM, Nov 22, 2009

A new projector for the West High School auditorium is "priming the pump" for a new initiative that will let people contribute online directly to West Aurora school projects at all levels.

Bank files for foreclosure on city attorney's home

12:01 AM, Nov 22, 2009

With the national economy continuing to struggle, foreclosures have been on the rise as people find it more difficult to pay their monthly mortgage bills. It's an epidemic that has even affected Aurora city government's top attorney, Alayne Weingartz.

Kane board to take over deputies payroll

By NICK SWEDBERG For Sun-Times Media — 4:00 AM, Nov 21, 2009

Despite a promise from the Kane County sheriff to not go over budget next year, county leaders said they need further assurance that budget problems for this year won't be repeated.

Mammograms should start at 40, doctors say

12:01 AM, Nov 21, 2009

To mammogram or not to mammogram? That was the question raised this week by a government panel of scientists and doctors who claim that 50 is the new 40 when it comes to the age when women should get the cancer screening test.

Aurora mayor endorses Quinn re-election

12:01 AM, Nov 20, 2009

Mayor Tom Weisner welcomed Gov. Pat Quinn to downtown Aurora Thursday and officially endorsed the governor's re-election bid during a low-key press conference before a small group of supporters and local dignitaries at North Island Center.

Quinn: New taxes needed to fix budget

12:01 AM, Nov 20, 2009

Gov. Pat Quinn said Thursday that a tax increase he proposed earlier in the year would be the best way to help the Fox Valley's social services, some of whom have not received any state money in five months.

Two investigators involved in escape are fired

Sun-Times Media — 12:01 AM, Nov 20, 2009

Two Cook County state's attorney's investigators have been fired after a prisoner escaped from their custody � discipline that one of their attorneys is calling "an overreaction."

State urges area towns to toughen alcohol standard

12:01 AM, Nov 20, 2009

The state liquor commission wants cities to follow the example of Yorkville, Geneva and Naperville and require training for anyone serving, distributing or otherwise selling alcohol.

Oswego, West schools getting less from local taxes

12:01 AM, Nov 20, 2009

A school district is in trouble if its costs rise more than its income rises. But West Aurora and Oswego schools are in a crisis that will likely give them less money than they got last year. Neither district remembers whether this has ever happened.

Navistar hearing continued to January

By HANK BECKMAN For Sun-Times Media — 12:01 AM, Nov 19, 2009

Navistar officials have asked for a time out in their bid to convert the former Lucent Technologies Campus into its international headquarters.

Aurora man convicted of sex abuse of child

12:01 AM, Nov 19, 2009

An Aurora man has been convicted of having sexual contact with a child he baby-sat in 2007. Late Tuesday, a Kane County jury convicted Jerald Spring, 63, of felony predatory criminal sexual assault and felony aggravated criminal sexual abuse, prosecutors said.

2 guilty in Naperville murder-robbery

From Submitted Reports — 12:01 AM, Nov 19, 2009

A Will County judge on Wednesday convicted two Aurora men of murder for their participation in an armed robbery in Naperville that resulted in the shooting death of a man.

Being a quitter: It�s easier said than done

12:01 AM, Nov 19, 2009

Today, thousands of people will put down their smokes and pick up patches in an effort to quit smoking during the American Cancer Society's 34th Great American Smokeout. To several local smokers who were braving the windy weather for a drag, it's all easier said than snuffed.

New charge against Aurora teen

12:01 AM, Nov 19, 2009

An Aurora teen in jail for allegedly setting his 3-year old niece on fire in October now faces additional charges for damaging the sprinkler system in his Kane County jail cell.

Auditor: Dems should pay for health care forum

12:01 AM, Nov 19, 2009

A discussion presented by its DuPage County Board sponsors as a way to exchange ideas about health care reform has become an argument over who should pay the event's $5,000 cost.

Clothing theft tally tops $13,000

4:00 AM, Nov 19, 2009

AURORA -- More than $13,000 worth of clothing was recovered from the trunk of a man who was seen shoplifting at Chicago Premium Outlets, according to Aurora police.

New Plainfield chief intends to stay put

12:01 AM, Nov 19, 2009

The newest cop on the job in Plainfield sits behind the biggest desk in the department, but sometimes wishes he was still sitting behind the wheel of a squad car.

Briefs: Census jobs available

From Submitted Reports — 4:00 AM, Nov 19, 2009

Census jobs available

State not paying bills: Social services in doubt

12:01 AM, Nov 18, 2009

Fox Valley Older Adult Services is a not-for-profit company, based in Sandwich, that has been providing help and care to seniors in the Fox Valley for 37 years. It operates three adult day care sites -- one in Aurora (called Rachel's Place), one in Sandwich, and one in DeKalb -- and provides in-home care, meals and transportation services to more than 200 seniors each day. But now, the agency is preparing for the worst.

Eola Road interchange opens Saturday

From Staff Reports — 12:01 AM, Nov 18, 2009

They promised it would be done this year. On Saturday, more than 10 years after it was first proposed and more than six months after construction began, the Eola Road interchange on Interstate 88 will open to the public.

Agency gets $440K to help with foreclosures

From Staff Reports — 12:01 AM, Nov 18, 2009

An Aurora agency has received a $440,000 grant to provide more counseling to area homeowners in danger of foreclosure.

School club targets end to violence in Uganda

4:00 AM, Nov 18, 2009

Members of West Aurora High School's Invisible Children club are hoping 30,000 books can stop Ugandan violence.

It's even hard for president to quit

From Staff Reports — 12:01 AM, Nov 19, 2009

It was a not-so-well-kept secret during the presidential campaign that the Democratic nominee was a smoker. During the campaign, Barack Obama occasionally talked about smoking and his many efforts to quit the habit he picked up as a teen.

Fire destroys SW Naperville garage

From Staff Reports — 9:30 AM, Nov 17, 2009

No one was seriously injured in an early-morning fire that destroyed a garage and the car inside it on Naperville's southwest side and left smoke damage throughout the. The fire at 3013 Crystal Rock Road, southwest of 95th Street and Route 59, was centered mostly on the garage.

Richest congressmen? They're right here

12:01 AM, Nov 17, 2009

U.S. Rep. Bill Foster long ago labeled himself a businessman and a scientist. The Geneva Democrat's apparently pretty good with money, too: Foster ranked 19th in net worth for 2008 in the 435-member U.S. House of Representatives, according to a study by the Center for Responsive Politics, which is known for the Web site www.opensecrets.org.

East board says no more students

12:01 AM, Nov 17, 2009

For years, the East Aurora School District has watched as its enrollment and class sizes continued to grow, and its tax revenue stagnated. But that tension may have finally hit its breaking point.

Local tollway work to wrap up by year's end

12:01 AM, Nov 17, 2009

With every current project set to wrap up by the end of next month, 2010 promises to be a construction-free year on the Fox Valley section of the Illinois Tollway.

Food Drive looking for support

12:01 AM, Nov 17, 2009

Now in its third week, donations are down slightly from last year for the community Holiday Food Drive. Volunteer help, however, has been plentiful.

Homeland security now issue for Irshad center?

12:01 AM, Nov 17, 2009

Times of operation and sufficient parking once were the major concerns involving a proposal to open an Islamic facility near the Naperville/Lisle border. Now DuPage County officials must weigh a link to homeland security.

GOP hopefuls line up against Foster

12:01 AM, Nov 16, 2009

Four of the five Republicans hoping to unseat U.S. Rep. Bill Foster made their pitch Sunday afternoon at the Eagle Brook Country Club in Geneva.

Tenants, fight for your rights

12:01 AM, Nov 16, 2009

A worker from the St. Charles electrical department recently came by 124-year-old home occupied by the Schnaitman family to shut off electricity, Stacey Schnaitman recalled. Police heard the same thing from the worker, but landlord Ken Voegele disputes that he asked to have the electricity disconnected. That's just the tip of the iceberg in this he said-she said rental dispute.

Protesters, Aurora settle on clinic

12:01 AM, Nov 15, 2009

Signed copies have not yet been presented to a federal judge, but for all intents and purposes a settlement agreement between abortion protesters and the city of Aurora is in effect.

Dugan's footprints linger after crimes

12:01 AM, Nov 15, 2009

It was a case that made national headlines but unfolded in our own backyards. And it began in 1972 when a 16-year-old named Brian Dugan moved to Aurora's East Side. Dugan spent his youth as a drunk and dazed thief until he graduated to rape and murder.

Valley residents relate health care struggles

By DENISE LINKE For Sun-Times Media — 12:01 AM, Nov 15, 2009

While the health care legislation approved by the House is "far from perfect," U.S. Rep. Bill Foster says he voted for it because it "included many of the principles that I believe to be critical in improving how Americans receive health insurance."

Pistorius pulls out of 14th District race

From Staff Reports — 12:01 AM, Nov 15, 2009

Democrat Jim Pistorius has withdrawn his candidacy for Congress in the 14th District. Pistorius, an Aurora businessman, said Friday that "in the interest of party unity" he would be ending his campaign.

Census Bureau looking for workers in Aurora

From Staff Reports — 12:01 AM, Nov 15, 2009

The U.S. Census Bureau is recruiting for temporary part-time jobs to be filled in early to mid 2010.

State offering aid to avoid foreclosure

By MARISSA AMONI For Sun-Times Media — 4:00 AM, Nov 14, 2009

Foreclosure is not a pretty word. And the process can be downright ugly. But some hope was available for the taking when the Mortgage Relief Project came to town.

Muslim center tied to federal probe

12:01 AM, Nov 15, 2009

A philanthropic group under federal investigation for alleged illegal ties to the Iranian government was found to have a financial stake in a proposed Islamic center in DuPage County.

Aurora's VNA clinic treating more patients

By MATT BRENNAN For Sun-Times Media — 12:01 AM, Nov 14, 2009

Regnery Wandrey had just moved to Geneva and, like many in the difficult economy, lost her job. She still needed to see a doctor, so she went to the Visiting Nurse Association of Fox Valley in Aurora. The clinic has seen a 43 percent increase in patients during the past fiscal year, which ended June 30.

Senate hopeful touts anti-corruption role

By LINDA GIRARDI For Sun-Times Media — 4:00 AM, Nov 14, 2009

Former Chicago Inspector General David Hoffman says his years of public service devoted to fighting crime and high-level corruption will make him an effective leader in the U.S. Senate. "I am the only one in the race who has no connections with the Blagojevich and Rezko problems of the past," Hoffman said.

Archive: Inside a killer's mind

12:01 AM, Nov 13, 2009

Dec. 2, 2007 archive:On April 4, 1983, Kathryn Pollock was supposed to meet friends for a regular dinner at 6 p.m. She never showed up. Police found her dead in her home, beaten to death, and the case since has remained unsolved. Some 20 years later, Aurora police Detective Mike Nilles took another look at the case.

Fox Valley Salvation Army drives starting next week

12:01 AM, Nov 13, 2009

Next week, that familiar holiday sound will once again start ringing throughout the Fox Valley. The Salvation Army of Aurora will start its annual red kettle campaign on Tuesday, with the Tri-City Salvation Army starting its campaign the next day.

Slain Bolingbrook soldier comes home

12:01 AM, Nov 13, 2009

Update: Firends and family of slain U.S. Army Pfc. Michael Pearson, a 22-year-old Bolingbrook resident, came out to share memories and pay their respects at a wake in Joliet Friday afternoon. Pearson was among those killed in a mass shooting at Fort Hood, Texas last week. Funeral services begin at 2 p.m. Saturday. Burial will follow at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery.

Prosecutor: There may be more Dugan victims

12:01 AM, Nov 13, 2009

Now that a DuPage County jury has given serial killer Brian Dugan the death penalty, authorities are investigating his possible connection to other long-unsolved crimes. Dugan has been convicted of three murders, but authorities believe he may have committed up to four more.

Parade a tribute to veterans, young and old

12:01 AM, Nov 12, 2009

"See those men?" nanny Judy McGowen of Aurora asked the three young boys. "Those men were probably in World War II and that's how many are left," she said. "So we should show them respect." The boys nodded as six veterans walked by.

New management for Orchard Valley Golf Course

12:01 AM, Nov 12, 2009

As of Jan. 1, Billy Casper Golf will be the new manager of Orchard Valley Golf Course.

Vets find camaraderie at nursing home

12:01 AM, Nov 12, 2009

William Coester was an Army medic in Berlin in the 1950s. Now a resident of Countryside Care Centre in Aurora, the 73-year-old Coester said he is glad he was able to be honored for Veterans Day Wednesday when so many others couldn't.

Briefs: Gifts for service personnel

From Submitted Reports — 4:00 AM, Nov 12, 2009

The city of Aurora will once again send gifts to Aurora residents in active military service who are stationed in the United States or overseas. Service personnel will receive a one-pound box of mixed nuts and a card in time for the holidays. The mixed nuts are provided by the Kiwanis Club of Aurora.

SciTech adds twist with tornado exhibit

12:01 AM, Nov 12, 2009

The storm clouds on the horizon for the SciTech Hands On Museum aren't just budgetary any more. On Wednesday, the downtown Aurora children's science museum unveiled "Dorothy," a retired tornado-chasing vehicle donated by the national Chasing4Life organization.

Dist. 204 projects slight tax increase

12:01 AM, Nov 11, 2009

Taxpayers in Indian Prairie District 204 will most likely see a slight increase in property taxes for this year � one that is less than the typical fast food meal.

Council to discuss lawsuit in private

From Staff Reports — 12:01 AM, Nov 11, 2009

The Aurora City Council will consider the settlement between Fox Valley Families Against Planned Parenthood and the city Tuesday, in closed session. The settlement itself does not need council approval, but it does involve changes to city ordinances, which will require a future council vote.

Jury decides on death sentence for Dugan

12:01 AM, Nov 12, 2009

Full story: Brian Dugan has been sentenced to death in the murder of Jeanine Nicarico.

'Twilight' tale: Vampires take over Aurora mall

12:01 AM, Nov 11, 2009

The vampires didn't take the blood of Aurora Christian High School junior Alyssa Sirek, just her breath. "I'm pretty sure I stopped breathing there," said Sirek, 16, of Yorkville. Sirek was one of 500 people at the Westfield Fox Valley mall on Tuesday who got to meet actors Ashley Greene and Kellan Lutz, who play the vampires Alice and Emmett Cullen in the "Twilight" series.

Aurora family passionate about flying

By MATT BRENNAN For Sun-Times Media — 12:01 AM, Nov 11, 2009

The Rippinger family, their love of flying and their dedication to service are captured forever in a painting commissioned especially for the family. The painting was presented to World War II veteran Joe Rippinger of Aurora by his son John last Father's Day. "I thought that would be a great way to memorialize our family flying history," John said of the painting.

Elks Club project may include rental units

12:01 AM, Nov 11, 2009

Earlier this year, developer Steve Arwady announced plans to renovate the 83-year-old Elks Club building into 19 condominiums, a restaurant and an art gallery for more than $3 million.

Kane to pay $6.3 million for Wards building

By NICK SWEDBERG For Sun-Times Media — 12:01 AM, Nov 11, 2009

Kane County has agreed to pay a little more than $6.32 million for the former Montgomery Wards building on Randall Road in St. Charles.

Waubonsie Valley honors local veterans

12:01 AM, Nov 10, 2009

As a student at Waubonsie Valley High School, Marine Sgt. David M. Caruso lettered in football. On Monday, his parents were presented with another gold and green W. This time, it was for the ultimate act of bravery: He died Nov. 9, 2004, in a firefight while serving in Fallujah, Iraq. He was 25. Caruso was among the many men and women recognized during an all-school assembly early Monday morning.

Jericho Circle to be demolished, rebuilt

12:01 AM, Nov 10, 2009

The walls of Jericho Circle are about to come tumbling down. Before a packed house at the Jericho Circle Community Center Monday afternoon, the Aurora Housing Authority announced its long-term plans: by next summer, they said, the West Side low-income housing complex will be well on its way to being demolished, and the roughly 100 families who live there will be relocated. It's all part of a wide-ranging plan for the future of the Housing Authority, seeking to reinvent itself.

Artists getting acts together downtown

By LINDA GIRARDI For Sun-Times Media — 4:00 AM, Nov 9, 2009

Nestled in a corner of a downtown caf�, artists, poets, musicians and writers shared their passion for the arts and culture in Aurora. The first in a series of "Downtown Aurora Arts Mixers" was hosted last week at River's Edge Caf� at 18 W. Downer Place. The gathering gave people in the art community an opportunity to network, mingle and get to know one another.

Vote on Planned Parenthood deal delayed

12:01 AM, Nov 10, 2009

Update: The Aurora City Council will not vote tonight on an agreement reached between the city and anti-abortion protesters in a 2-year-old suit in federal court.

From sapling to centerpiece

By MARISSA AMONI For Sun-Times Media — 12:01 AM, Nov 10, 2009

On Aurora's near northeast side, a tree that Joan and William Crawford planted almost 50 years ago lost its roots Monday morning. The majestic spruce tree is this year's Christmas tree for the city of Aurora.

DuPage sheriff to meet with Biden

From Submitted Reports — 12:01 AM, Nov 10, 2009

DuPage County Sheriff John Zaruba will be heading to Washington, D.C., this week for a sit-down with two of the nation's top executives.

Cities, towns cut back on holiday celebrations

12:01 AM, Nov 8, 2009

It's Christmas time in the city. But silver bells? They might be out of the question this year. The still-slumping economy is threatening to descend, Grinch-like, on Whoville and steal away Christmas -- or at least parts of it. Cities, towns and villages up and down the Fox Valley are facing massive budget deficits in 2010, and as revenue continues to decline, many are cutting back on non-essentials.

Aurora dedicates center to Rodgers

12:01 AM, Nov 8, 2009

After two poems, testimonials from grateful kids and endless thanks to a man who has been adored as a father figure for Aurora's youth, the city on Saturday officially renamed its Community Center on College Avenue the Fred Rodgers Community Center.

Kane Cougars hope to make Upper Deck a hit

By CHARLOTTE NORGAARD For Sun-Times Media — 4:00 AM, Nov 7, 2009

Even though the minor league baseball season has been over for weeks, the Kane County Cougars are hoping that their new Upper Deck facilities will keep Elfstrom Stadium hopping even during the off-season.

Planned Parenthood lawsuit dismissed

12:01 AM, Nov 7, 2009

More details: DuPage County Circuit Judge Neal Cerne dismissed all five counts of a lawsuit against Planned Parenthood and the City of Aurora Friday morning, but gave anti-abortion protesters leave to plead their case again next month.

Back to wall: Is Drew's nephew persecuted?

12:01 AM, Nov 6, 2009

A nephew of Drew Peterson's slain third wife says prosecutors will call him to the witness stand during the disgraced former cop's trial, and he believes the testimony is going to cost him a year of his life. "This is definitely political," Charlie Doman said of prosecutors supposedly planning to lock him up for the maximum year sentence if he is convicted of misdemeanor battery and obstructing justice in order to keep his testimony above reproach.

11th conviction gets man a stint in federal prison

12:01 AM, Nov 6, 2009

Christopher Mosby, 44, was sentenced this week to five years in federal prison on drug charges, according to the U.S. Attorney's office in Chicago. Mosby was one of eight people arrested in 2008 during "Operation Land O' Lakes" -- a reference to "butter" made by drug dealers.

Two officers hurt when Aurora squads collide

12:01 AM, Nov 6, 2009

Two Aurora police officers were injured when their squads hit each other late Wednesday night on the city's West Side.

Tea Party turns up the volume on Foster

12:01 AM, Nov 6, 2009

When the shouting started at the Tea Party rally outside U.S. Rep. Bill Foster's district office Thursday afternoon, the group was drowned out by louder voices screaming that the representative, President Obama and former St. Charles Mayor Sue Klinkhamer, now a Foster staffer, were all "Communists." A group of about 30 to 40 area citizens concerned about taxes joined the rally.

And another thing ...

12:01 AM, Nov 5, 2009

Our readers' concerns about the health care system were all over the board. But most agree that something has to change. Here is what you told us in a Beacon-News survey conducted in September.

Brian Dugan expressed remorse for killing girl

12:01 AM, Nov 5, 2009

Brian Dugan repeatedly expressed remorse for murdering 10-year-old Jeanine Nicarico and even talked about committing suicide as a way to demonstrate his regret, a defense psychiatrist testified Wednesday.

DuPage gets injectable H1N1 vaccine

From Submitted Reports — 12:01 AM, Nov 5, 2009

The DuPage County Health Department announced Wednesday it has received a shipment of the injectable H1N1 vaccine and is currently scheduling appointments for both the nasal mist and injectable vaccine.

Jury finds Aurora man guilty of beating girlfriend

Sun-Tmes Media — 12:01 AM, Nov 5, 2009

A jury needed less than an hour Tuesday to find an Aurora man guilty of the brutal beating of his girlfriend in 2007, and he now faces up to seven years in prison.

West honors its oldest living grad

12:01 AM, Nov 5, 2009

Sitting with her 98-year-old kid sister Emily, 100-year-old Helen Flock was honored this week by the high school they both attended. In a flurry of cheerleaders and students from the marching band and a cappella choir, Helen Flock was honored this week by West Aurora High School.

Fiserv closing East-Side office, cutting 290 jobs

12:01 AM, Nov 5, 2009

A Wisconsin-based, Fortune 500 financial investment company is shutting its office in Aurora. Fiserv, at 444 Commerce St., intends to close its facility possibly by March 2010.

Visit to Aurora crossing

12:01 AM, Nov 5, 2009

Concluding a whirlwind tour of the Elgin, Joliet and Eastern railroad tracks, Daniel Elliott, the new chairman of the federal Surface Transportation Board, stopped in Aurora Wednesday afternoon to meet with opponents of Canadian National Railway Company.

Art and History Center reopens after layoffs

12:01 AM, Nov 5, 2009

The David L. Pierce Art and History Center on Downer Place, shuttered by Aurora city layoffs in September, reopened Wednesday afternoon, albeit on a limited basis, thanks to some hardy volunteers.

Fire burns out pallet company building

12:01 AM, Nov 4, 2009

Aurora firefighters contained a fire Tuesday evening at Interstate Pallet Company on Mitchell Road in Aurora, just north of Indian Trail. No injuries were reported.

Railroad has its roots in Aurora

From Staff Reports — 12:01 AM, Nov 4, 2009

The Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railroad has a deep connection to Aurora. In fact, one of its main predecessors, the Burlington Railroad, can trace its roots to Aurora in the 1850s.

Long-range bike ride to benefit United Way

12:01 AM, Nov 4, 2009

Ultra endurance athlete George Hood of Aurora -- a three-time Guinness world record holder in stationary (spin) bike riding -- will help Fox Valley United Way raise funds to support local youth programs as he takes aim at a new Guinness record.

New cath lab system to deliver sharper images

By MARISSA AMONI For Sun-Times Media — 12:01 AM, Nov 4, 2009

What could turn a seven-hour surgery into a seven-minute procedure? It's called the Allura Xper FD20, and the new digital imaging X-ray system at Provena Mercy Medical Center makes vascular procedures quicker and safer.

Without a safety net

12:01 AM, Nov 3, 2009

In May 2007, Dianne's heart failed. She had health insurance, but it would not cover rehab. But it got worse: Her husband's former employer had kept the couple's insurance. But rising premiums soon overwhelmed that generosity.

2010 primary election ballots take shape

12:01 AM, Nov 3, 2009

The deadline has come and gone, and after a flurry of last-minute filings, the ballot for next year's elections has taken shape.

Can tort reform help save health care?

12:01 AM, Nov 4, 2009

After 28 years, Roop Shivpuri couldn't afford to be a doctor any more. At the end of her medical career, Shivpuri, now the president of the Kane County Medical Society, was paying $135,000 a year for malpractice insurance for her Elgin practice.

DuPage County races draw cast of dozens

12:01 AM, Nov 3, 2009

With the primary less than three months away, more than three dozen residents rallied supporters and launched bids for elective office in DuPage County by the 5 p.m. filing deadline Monday.

Dugan case opens questions about justice

4:00 AM, Nov 1, 2009

Sometimes a case is so open-and-shut that you don�t know if it should be open or closed.

Golf facility may get new operator

12:01 AM, Nov 3, 2009

The Orchard Valley Golf Course and Restaurant could be under new management as early as Jan. 1.

Tea Party Patriots fight government spending

12:01 AM, Nov 2, 2009

If not for President Bush's Wall Street bailout, Sherry Pierce, 43, of Aurora, might have kept quiet about health care. Instead, the TARP bill angered Pierce enough she got involved in the Tea Party Patriots, a group fighting government spending and what they perceive as attacks on personal liberties.

When illness strikes

12:01 AM, Nov 1, 2009

Before the federal stimulus money kicked in, Jean Erickson went without health insurance because her Cobra payment would have left her only $21 to live on. Even with the 65 percent discount from the government, Erickson will be putting more than one-third of her income into insurance.

Crime down in state; up in Kendall County

12:01 AM, Nov 1, 2009

The state crime numbers fell by less than 1 percent, or by about 712 crimes, according to Illinois State Police crime figures. This is the fifth consecutive year the rate, which includes property crimes and crimes committed against people, has dropped.

Darlene Senger announces she will run again

From Staff Reports — 12:01 AM, Nov 1, 2009

State Rep. Darlene Senger on Thursday announced her campaign for re-election. The former Naperville city council woman, whose district includes the far East Side of Aurora, was first elected in 2008.

Aurora expands crime-free housing classes

From Staff Reports — 12:01 AM, Nov 1, 2009

The city of Aurora has added additional mandatory, crime-free housing classes. Owners, landlords and agents of rental and non-owner occupied residential buildings in Aurora will not be charged a fee.

Rodgers dedication, dinner set for Saturday

From Staff Reports — 12:01 AM, Nov 1, 2009

The city will celebrate the career of Fred Rodgers on Saturday with two events. First, beginning at 3 p.m. Mayor Tom Weisner and the City Council will dedicate the Fred Rodgers Community Center at 501 College Ave. in Aurora.

Park District offers deals for veterans

From Staff Reports — 12:01 AM, Nov 1, 2009

The Fox Valley Park District has proclaimed November "Veterans Recognition Month" and will pay homage with special promotions, deals and discounts for veterans throughout the month.

Spring Lake Park becomes refurbished �gem� in Aurora

By JEFF LONG For Sun-Times Media — 12:01 AM, Oct 31, 2009

The toughest part was the anticipation. Whenever passers-by on McCoy Drive would whiz past Spring Lake Park this summer, they saw exciting glimpses of what was taking shape. But it always left them with one burning question: When will it be ready?

Five area high schools among state's top 100

12:01 AM, Oct 30, 2009

Standardized test scores at St. Charles North High School and St. Charles East High School jumped from last year, pushing them up in the rankings among the top 100 high schools in Illinois, as calculated by the Chicago Sun-Times.

State scores rise, but local schools spotty

12:01 AM, Oct 30, 2009

Although state test scores edged up slightly this year, local high schools were a little more touch-and-go. The Illinois State Board of Education made the yearly report cards public today, showing which schools were faltering and which were making progress on the students' test scores.

Flu outbreak prompts closure of Wheaton Academy

From Staff Reports — 4:00 AM, Oct 30, 2009

A small outbreak of the H1N1 flu, as well as reports of flu-like symptoms, has prompted the closure of Wheaton Academy in West Chicago, according to school officials.

DuPage County receives more H1N1 flu vaccine

From Staff Reports — 12:01 AM, Oct 30, 2009

The DuPage County Health department received its second shipment of the H1N1 vaccine Wednesday afternoon, accepting another 6,000 doses of the inhalable mist form.

Jurors hear debate over Dugan confession

12:01 AM, Oct 30, 2009

The only person who knows why Brian Dugan confessed to murdering Jeanine Nicarico is Brian Dugan himself. This week, however, prosecutors and defense lawyers tried to draw their own conclusions in front of jurors who will decide if Dugan receives a death sentence for the Naperville girl's February 1983 murder.

DuPage workers to see health care cost hikes

12:01 AM, Oct 30, 2009

People on the payroll in DuPage County will be paying a little more for their medical coverage next year. Facing health insurance cost increases of more than $993,000 for fiscal 2010, the county's Finance Committee agreed this month to look for ways to share the bite.

Lawyer: New view of Drew

12:01 AM, Oct 30, 2009

Drew Peterson's attorneys vowed to flip the world's perception of the disgraced Bolingbrook cop upside down when they get a crack at the state's witnesses during an evidentiary hearing in January.

Phillips Park has big day in Chicago

12:01 AM, Oct 30, 2009

Mollie Millen has devoted years of her life to Phillips Park. As one of the core members of Friends of Phillips Park, she volunteers there every week, spending one to three days tending to the sunken garden and other amenities. She's lived in Aurora her entire life, and she's one of the park's biggest boosters.

Aurora aldermen weigh fines for party bands

12:01 AM, Oct 30, 2009

Aurora ldermen on Tuesday gave the first nod to an expansion of the noise ordinance, one that will target live bands on private property.

Twilight cast in Aurora

From Staff Reports — 12:01 AM, Oct 30, 2009

Would you like a chance to meet some of the cast members of "The Twilight Saga: New Moon?" Come on, of course you would.

D204 schools moving up in rankings

12:01 AM, Oct 30, 2009

Like those in neighboring District 203, schools in Indian Prairie School District 204 once again rank among the best in the state.

Waiting for evidence in Vaughn case

12:01 AM, Oct 29, 2009

Although the slayings happened a little more than two years ago, lawyers still are waiting for some evidence to be processed in Christopher Vaughn's case. In fact, some of the work might not be completed until early next year, said Gerald Kielian, one of Vaughn's lawyers, in court Wednesday.

It isn't easy being green

12:01 AM, Oct 29, 2009

Aurora has been touted as a leader when it comes to environmental initiatives. Now, downtown business owner Sal Arenella wants the city to take the lead on another one. Like many small business owners, Arenella's big on recycling, saving his glass, plastic and cardboard every day. And, like many small business owners, he then takes them home to add to his residential recycling pickup. Like many communities, Aurora does not offer curbside recycling pickup for commercial businesses or for multi-unit apartment buildings.

Aurora Country Club sues alderman

12:01 AM, Oct 29, 2009

The Aurora Country Club has sued Aurora Alderman Rick Lawrence, claiming $3,477 in unpaid dues and other expenses. But Lawrence said these claims are "slanderous and absolutely untrue," and threatened to file a countersuit against the club.

Briefs: Run for the Athletes 5K

From Submitted Reports — 4:00 AM, Oct 29, 2009

The Aurora Police Department and Illinois Special Olympics are hosting the "Run for the Athletes" 5K on Nov. 7 at the Fox Valley Park District's Blackberry Farms, 100 S. Barnes Road, Aurora.

DuPage Co. delays Muslim center vote

12:01 AM, Oct 28, 2009

The request for a conditional use permit for the Irshad Learning Center, on unincorporated land east of Naper Boulevard on the north side of 75th Street near Naperville, was tabled Tuesday by the DuPage County Board after the state's attorney raised a red flag on a couple of details in the plan.

Meals on Wheels runs into funding crisis

12:01 AM, Oct 28, 2009

Linda Kurzawa doesn't want to see the local Meals on Wheels program grind to a halt. The District 6 DuPage County Board member and chairman of the Health and Human Services Committee said Tuesday that the program's funding is being cut at a level that will take food out of 150 people's mouths almost immediately, unless the county steps in to ward off disaster.

Two years, no answers in Peterson case

12:01 AM, Oct 28, 2009

A year ago, Drew Peterson went to New York City to appear on the "Today" show and plead with his missing wife to "Show yourself. Put an end to this nightmare." The wife, Stacy, who is Peterson's fourth, has not shown herself. And Peterson's living nightmare has gotten worse, as he has been in the county jail for five months while he awaits trial in the death of his third wife.

H1N1 vaccine still trickling into DuPage

12:01 AM, Oct 28, 2009

This is no time to panic over the H1N1 flu shot. That's the message DuPage County Board members heard Tuesday from Maureen McHugh, executive director of the DuPage County Health Department, when she came to update them on efforts to minimize the damage done locally by the novel flu virus.

Aurora dog park could cost less at larger size

12:01 AM, Oct 28, 2009

It was not "Dog Day Afternoon" in Aurora on Tuesday, as the Finance Committee put off a decision on what to do about a planned $63,000 dog park on the East Side.

Extra parking at Planned Parenthood OK'd

12:01 AM, Oct 28, 2009

After more than 30 minutes of public comment on the issue, aldermen voted Tuesday night to grant Planned Parenthood 11 more parking spaces at its New York Street facility in Aurora.

Two named as 2009 firefighters of the year

12:01 AM, Oct 28, 2009

Two firefighters who rushed into a burning building to save an elderly man were honored Tuesday by the Aurora Fire Department.

Schools brace for bad year as home values fall

12:01 AM, Oct 28, 2009

Pop the champagne cork and put on the party hats -- home values are going down, which means lower taxes, right? Right? Wrong. Not only do dropping home values not necessarily mean lower property taxes, they could hurt some school districts' funding. West Aurora is bracing for a hit, and Oswego could see cuts, even layoffs next year. Put away the party hats and let's learn how dropping home values really affect your bottom line.

Vaccine clinics

12:01 AM, Oct 28, 2009

The DuPage County Health Department has scheduled H1N1 vaccine clinics for DuPage County residents by appointment only.

Volunteers needed for Aurora food drive

12:01 AM, Oct 28, 2009

Sunday is the kickoff of the second annual citywide Holiday Food Drive to benefit the Aurora Area Interfaith Food Pantry.

School bus drivers cut deal to avoid strike

12:01 AM, Oct 27, 2009

Parents in the Indian Prairie, Oswego and Naperville school districts can breathe easier. Officials at First Student Bus Company confirmed late Monday afternoon that a deal had been reached between the company and members of Teamsters Union Locals 179 and 673. The parties had been negotiating under threat of a strike since last week, when union members rejected a proposed contract.

Flu fears cancels Halloween event

From Submitted Reports — 10:00 AM, Oct 27, 2009

Concerns over the he H1N1 flu virus has canceled at least one Halloween event in Aurora. Gardens of Waterford Assisted Living Community has canceled its annual Halloween Adventure that was scheduled for Wednesday to Friday.

Hundreds line up for swine flu vaccinations

12:01 AM, Oct 27, 2009

Standing in the cold drizzle, hundreds of moms pushing strollers and dads carrying toddlers descended upon East Aurora High School as the Kane County Health Department offered swine flu vaccines during one of three community clinics held Monday.

Back to normal at St. Charles East

4:00 AM, Oct 27, 2009

St. Charles officials decided to close East High starting last Wednesday after 972 students called in sick, leaving half-empty classes and fueling worries the high school might be suffering from a large outbreak of swine flu. But only 136 students called in sick Monday, less than the approximately 10 percent that normally call in during cold and flu season.

Groups work to weed park of non-native plants

By M.B. SUTHERLAND For The Sun — 12:01 AM, Oct 26, 2009

Nobody likes a party-crasher. That's one reason the Naperville Park District set out in 2007 to restore Pioneer Park -- literally weeding out what it calls invasive, non-native species of plants and allowing the native Illinois plants to thrive.

Decision coming Nov. 6 on clinic lawsuit

12:01 AM, Oct 26, 2009

A DuPage County judge will decide on Nov. 6 whether to dismiss a lawsuit against the city of Aurora and Planned Parenthood. The suit, filed last February by opponents of Planned Parenthood's then-new clinic at 3051 E. New York St., alleges numerous violations of the city's zoning and building codes during the building's approval process.

Truck fire closes tollway

From Staff Reports — 7:50 AM, Oct 26, 2009

No one was hurt when a semi truck caught fire on westbound I-88 just west of the Winfield Road exit shortly before 7:30 a.m. Monday, but at least a few commuters were delayed. Rescue crews closed down all westbound lanes for nearly an hour while they extinguished the flames.

Kane board member pays tax bill; avoids sale date

4:00 AM, Oct 26, 2009

The poor economy that has complicated Kane County's budget can also claim a board member as one of its victims.

Time to get in the ring for 2010 campaign

12:01 AM, Oct 26, 2009

Today formally opens up the 2010 election cycle, with candidates filing their petitions to get on the primary ballot in the hope that they'll be busy shaking hands and talking platforms through the big day on Nov. 2, 2010. Many names have surfaced (some have even dropped out already), and battle lines are starting to form. Here's a first look at how a year's worth of campaigns shape up.

Local candidates stepping forward

4:00 AM, Oct 26, 2009

Even the most astute voter might have been a little surprised to see candidates for governor showing up in TV ads before Halloween this year. After all, the primary election for state seats, county offices and the local Congressional District isn't until next Feb. 2 -- Groundhog Day, a somewhat befitting coincidence because, frankly, didn't some of these folks just get elected?

Autism's comfort zone

12:01 AM, Oct 25, 2009

AMC Theaters, in partnership with the Autism Society of America, host monthly screenings of films in a safe and accepting environment. The movie chain is one of several area places that provide special programming for children with autism and their families.

Jurors hear Dugan's jailhouse letters

12:01 AM, Oct 24, 2009

Convicted murderer Brian Dugan smirked slightly as several of his jailhouse letters were read out loud to jurors in DuPage County court during his sentencing hearing for the 1983 murder of Jeanine Nicarico Friday.

D203, D204 buses expected to be running Monday

12:01 AM, Oct 25, 2009

While First Student officials say buses will be running as usual Monday, Naperville area school officials have been scrambling to come up with alternative plans should the company's drivers decide to strike. The negotiations involve bus drivers for Indian Prairie School District 204, a portion of Naperville School District 203, a portion of Oswego School District 203 and 34 Pace commuter shuttles.

Nicaricos tell of pain that never goes away

12:01 AM, Oct 24, 2009

Jurors could see the toll Brian Dugan had taken on the Nicarico family in 1983 when he kicked down the front door of the Naperville family's home and snatched up 10-year-old Jeanine. For three weeks now, the Nicarico family have sat puffy-eyed in the seats of a DuPage County courtroom.

Tape tells how Dugan drowned victim

12:01 AM, Oct 23, 2009

Before Brian Dugan was ever convicted of the murder and sexual assault of 27-year-old Geneva nurse Donna Schnorr at a local quarry, Dugan's former girlfriend, Denise Benson, had her own suspicions that the 21-year-old career criminal was to blame, she testified Thursday.