Memorial Day Observances, Fight the Bite with the Kane County Health Department, Community Pools Open for the Season, Local Zoo Mourns Loss of Beloved Bobcat

KANE

COUNTY

CONNECTS

Engaged Citizens,

Involved Communities,

Open Government.

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

Thursday May 21, 2026

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Memorial Day Observances in Kane County -

Government Buildings Closed May 25

Communities throughout Kane County are preparing to honor the nation’s fallen service members with Memorial Day services and community gatherings. Kane County Connects has compiled a list of local observances to help residents find events in their area. READ MORE. Additionally, Kane County Government buildings will be closed Monday, May 25, 2026 for Memorial Day.

Kane County Health Department Urges Insect Bite Prevention,

Offers Free Tick Kits

As warmer weather returns, the Kane County Health Department (KCHD) reminds residents to protect themselves against mosquitoes and ticks. KCHD conducts mosquito surveillance throughout the County each season to monitor for West Nile virus activity. Residents can also pick up a free tick removal kit at the KCHD's Aurora office. READ MORE

Splish Splash - Community Pools Open for the Season in

Kane County

Summer is making a splash across Kane County as community pools prepare to open for the season. Local park districts are getting ready to welcome families back for swim lessons, lap swimming and sunny afternoons by the water. Find a community pool near you. READ MORE (photo from St. Charles Park District social media)

'Tech Tip' With the Regional Office of Education - App Permissions

Are your apps accessing more of your personal data than they should? Protecting your data starts with knowing which apps have permission to use your camera, microphone and location. Phil Morris with the Regional Office of Education has 'Tech Tips' on how to review and manage app permissions so you stay in control of your information and privacy. READ MORE

EVENTS / COMMUNITIES

Waubonsee Foundation Trail Run Returns May 30

The Waubonsee Community College Foundation will host its annual Trail Run on May 30, at 9 a.m. on the college's Sugar Grove Campus and the Gilman Trail. The event raises funds for student scholarships that help reduce financial barriers for Waubonsee students.

Forest Preserve Hosts Senior Stroll in South Elgin

The Kane County Forest Preserve will host a "Senior Stroll" on June 4, from 10 a.m. to Noon at the Jon J. Duerr Forest Preserve. Adults age 50 and older are invited to join naturalists for an outdoor walk exploring the preserve's natural and cultural history. The event is free, with donations accepted.

Free Star Gazing Event

Fox Valley Astronomical Society will host a free star watching party event on May 23 and June 20 at Peck Farm Park in Geneva. A presentation at 8 p.m. in the Red Barn followed by telescope observing in the parking lot (weather permitting). All ages are welcome. Visit the Peck Farm Park section of the Geneva Park District program brochure on page 31.

East Dundee Fire District to Honor Longtime Volunteer with Dedication Ceremony

The East Dundee Fire Protection District will host a fire station dedication ceremony May 26 at 1:30 p.m. at 402 Dundee Ave. The event will posthumously honor Mark Guth Sr. for his 64 years of service to the district.

ANNOUNCEMENTS

Sugar Grove Seniors Invited to Free Community Lunch

Sugar Grove seniors are invited to attend a free senior lunch on May 26 at noon at the Sugar Grove Community Building. Reservations are required by 5 p.m. May 22 by calling Julie Walker at (630) 999-4000. The event is co-sponsored by the Sugar Grove Township, Sugar Grove Park District and the Sugar Grove Community Building.

Randall Oaks Zoo Mourns Loss of Beloved Bobcat Marley

Randall Oaks Zoo is mourning the loss of Marley, a beloved bobcat and longtime animal ambassador who spent nearly 12 years helping educate and inspire visitors about native wildlife and conservation. Marley was humanely euthanized due to age-related health complications.

Tri-Cities Exchange Club Honors Students at ACE Awards

The Tri-Cities Exchange Club recently honored nine graduating seniors from Batavia, Geneva, Mooseheart, St. Charles East and St. Charles North high schools during its annual ACE (Accepting the Challenge of Excellence) Awards banquet at Riverside Receptions in Geneva. The ACE Awards recognize students who overcame significant personal, family, social or health-related challenges in order to graduate. Each honoree received a scholarship and recognition for their perseverance and achievements.

Village of Burlington Seeks Vendors for 2026 Open Air Market

The Village of Burlington is now seeking local vendors for the 2026 Burlington Open Air Market season. The market, held every third Saturday from June through Oct. welcomes artists, small businesses, makers, creators, food vendors and more. Those interested in becoming a vendor can contact burlingtonopenairmarket@gmail.com for more information.

North Aurora Veterans Memorial Renovation Planned for 2026

The North Aurora Veterans Memorial at Farview Drive and Willow Way is set for a renovation beginning in spring 2026, featuring updates including a redesigned memorial wall, new landscaping, a water feature and aluminum flags with personalized inscriptions. Community members can purchase engraved plaques to be included in the memorial.

BUSINESS

Tri-Cities Canstruction to Combine Art, Engineering and Hunger Relief

The Batavia, Geneva and St. Charles Chambers of Commerce are launching the inaugural Tri-Cities Canstruction, a large-scale design competition using canned food to fight hunger in the Fox Valley region. The public event will take place in Feb. 2027 at Waubonsee Community College in Sugar Grove. Teams made up of businesses, schools and community organizations will build large-scale structures entirely from canned food, with all donations benefiting local food pantries. Interested parties should contact the Chambers of Commerce.