Kane County Farmland Protection Program Adds 700 Acres, New Nature Place Space Opens, Hampshire Celebrates 150 Years, Explore GIS Day

A twice a week (Tuesday/Thursday) newsletter for residents of Kane County.

Thursday Nov. 12, 2026

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Kane County Farmland Protection Program

Expands by an Expected 700 Acres

The Kane County Farmland Protection Program is acquiring conservation easements in Virgil, Kaneville and Big Rock townships. Kane County’s protectionprogram has preserved productive farmland for more than 25 years. READ MORE

Kids Dive Right Into New Nature Play Space at

LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve

The Forest Preserve District of Kane County and its Foundation recently celebrated the opening of a new Nature Play Space at LeRoy Oakes Forest Preserve in St. Charles. READ MORE

Celebrating the Village of Hampshire's 150th Anniversary

The Kane County Board has issued a proclamation recognizing the 150th anniversary of the Village of Hampshire in northwestern Kane County. Originally known as Henpeck, the community traces its beginnings to 1836 and was officially incorporated in 1876. READ MORE

Explore Kane County's GIS Technology at

Open House and New Data Portal

GIS Day on Nov. 18 is a worldwide celebration and an opportunity for the public to learn about Geographic Information Systems, explore how the technology works and discover how Kane County departments use mapping and geographic data to provide services to the public. READ MORE

EVENTS / COMMUNITIES

Mahjong Meetups – Batavia Park District

Love playing Mahjong? Join the Batavia Park District on Thursdays from 10:15 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. at the Callahan Community Center. Registration is encouraged, but drop-ins are welcome!

Huntley Indoor Market Returns

The Huntley Indoor Market returns Nov. 14, offering shoppers a chance to support local vendors and browse handmade goods, unique products, treats and more. View the vendor map to plan your visit.

Elgin Township to Host Martha Washington Historical Portrayal

Celebrate America's 250th anniversary with a historical portrayal of Martha Washington by Michelle Gibbons on Nov. 16. The presentation will explore the life, challenges and legacy of America's first First Lady.

Free Youth Vision Screenings in Aurora

The Aurora Lions Club will offer free vision screenings for children ages 6 months to 16 years old from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. on Nov. 21, at the Santori Aurora Public Library, 101 S. River St. Screenings check for potential vision problems, including nearsightedness, farsightedness and lazy eye.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Aurora Opens Applications for Rental Housing HVAC Replacement Grants

The City of Aurora is accepting applications for the second round of its Rental Housing HVAC Replacement Grant Program. The program offers financial assistance to eligible owners of residential rental properties for full or partial HVAC replacements, equipment upgrades and the addition of permanent cooling, including heat pump systems. Applications are due by Dec. 11, 2026.

Elgin College to Host Cold Case Investigation Program

Elgin Community College will host a free program on Nov. 18 featuring Elgin police detectives discussing the nearly 42-year-old disappearance of Karen Schepers. The presentation will explore cold case investigative techniques, technology and public outreach. The event is open to the public, with in-person and virtual options. Register online .

North Aurora Police Collecting New Toys for Toys for Tots

The North Aurora Police Department is collecting new, unwrapped toys for the Toys for Tots program through Dec. 1. Donations can be dropped off in the department lobby at 200 S. Lincolnway. The program, run by the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, provides holiday gifts to children in need.

Pingree Grove Invites Residents to Decorate Holiday Trees

The Village of Pingree Grove is inviting residents to sponsor and decorate a Brittany Tree for its holiday display in support of the FIA Foundation for Inherited Arrhythmias, in memory of Brittany Valene. Learn more and complete a sponsor form.

BUSINESS

Carpentersville Restaurant Celebrates Expansion

No Manches Mexican Grill, located at 140 N. Western Ave. in Carpentersville, celebrated the opening of its expanded space with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by Village Board members and local business representatives. The village congratulated owners Bruno and Julio on their continued investment in the community.