Elgin police are taking several measures to curb illegal fireworks this year, from creating a special team to handle complaints to visiting neighborhoods to talk to residents to providing signs asking neighbors not to set them off.

JB Pritzker’s decision to run for governor again settles a significant issue for next year’s election season, where candidates will be vying for an open US Senate seat as well as several in Congress.

Politicians still have time to throw their hats into one of the rings, but here are the top candidates for several US House districts next year in Illinois.

Here’s our guide to July 4 fireworks displays in the Chicago area, with shows from almost a hundred communities.

Roundup of small news items for the Elgin area.

A new program at the Anderson Humane animal shelter lets people take a potential pet for a “test drive” before formally adopting them.

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