A Rapidly Growing City

The holiday season is here, and with it comes a perfect gift for comedy lovers: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly Sweater, a festive show brought to you by The Second City. Running from Nov. 21 to Dec. 23, 2024, this exciting comedy experience at the new and stunning Copley Theatre in Aurora is sure to add an extra dose of humor and holiday cheer to your festivities.An Unforgettable Holiday Comedy ExperienceStep into the beautifully renovated Copley Theatre, a true gem that adds a touch of elegance and charm to any outing, and get ready for a holiday show like no other. The Good, the Bad and the Ugly Sweater features the brightest comedic minds from The Second City, the iconic Chicago-based comedy troupe known for its sharp wit, innovative sketches, and unforgettable improv. This show is a celebration of everything that makes the holiday season special—along with a few playful twists.In this lively performance, you’ll enjoy a blend of festive humor, stand-up comedy, and off-the-cuff improv, all delivered while the performers sport their most ridiculous ugly sweaters. From hilarious one-liners to spontaneous moments of comedy gold, the show promises to deliver laughter that will shake up your snow globe and leave you in stitches.A New Venue for a New Holiday TraditionThe recently opened Copley Theatre offers the perfect setting for this uproarious holiday event. With its sleek modern design and state-of-the-art facilities, the theater provides an intimate yet sophisticated atmosphere for a truly memorable experience. Whether you’re enjoying the show with family, friends, or colleagues, the Copley’s inviting space and top-notch acoustics ensure you won’t miss a single punchline. It’s a fresh and exciting venue for those looking to celebrate the season with a night of humor and heart.The Second City: A Legacy of LaughterThe Good, the Bad and the Ugly Sweater marks another chapter in the rich history of The Second City, a comedic institution that has called Chicago its home for more than 60 years. Founded in 1959, The Second City began as an improvisational theater troupe and quickly grew into one of the most influential comedy companies in the world. With a long list of alumni that includes some of the biggest names in comedy—such as Tina Fey, Stephen Colbert, Bill Murray, and John Belushi—The Second City has become synonymous with sharp humor, social satire, and groundbreaking comedy.Their style of improv and sketch comedy has revolutionized the world of live performance, earning them a reputation for pushing boundaries and creating iconic moments that have shaped the comedic landscape. With The Good, the Bad and the Ugly Sweater, The Second City brings that same energy to the stage, blending the holiday spirit with their signature comedic brilliance.A Perfect Holiday GiftLooking for the ultimate gift this holiday season? Look no further than tickets to The Good, the Bad and the Ugly Sweater—a show that’s guaranteed to lift anyone’s spirits and bring a little laughter into their holiday season. Whether it’s a treat for a friend, family member, or even yourself, the show is a great way to share the joy and silliness of the season.Tickets are on sale now, and with performances running through Dec. 23, 2024, there’s plenty of time to secure your seats for this unforgettable comedy experience. Don't miss out on the opportunity to be part of this festive celebration in the heart of Aurora at the stunning Copley Theatre.Get your tickets, throw on your most outrageous ugly sweater (if you dare), and prepare for a night of holiday hilarity with The Second City. It's a holiday show that promises to be the gift that keeps on giving—laughter and joy all around!

Nestled in the heart of Aurora, Illinois, at the Fox Valley Mall, Tuft A Rug is the first and only rug tufting workshop in the state, bringing a unique and engaging art form to the local community. Since opening a few months ago, Tuft A Rug has quickly captured the interest of creative enthusiasts and curious locals alike, offering them a chance to explore the colorful, textured world of rug tufting—a craft that allows participants to design and create their own custom rugs from scratch. With the combination of an inspiring space, easy-to-use tufting tools, and expert instruction, this one-of-a-kind workshop has introduced the satisfying art of tufting to Illinois, making it accessible and enjoyable for all ages.The Tufting Experience: Like Painting with YarnAt Tuft A Rug, the process is often described as “painting with yarn.” Participants use a handheld AK-1 tufting machine—similar in concept to a sewing machine—that enables them to “color in” their design on a stretched canvas backing, filling their rug pattern with vibrant threads. The process is immersive and therapeutic, letting participants focus on their design and embrace the gradual build-up of the textured patterns.“Initially, people might feel intimidated by the tufting machine,” explains Keaton Wade, the founder of Tuft A Rug. “But once they start, they quickly see how easy it is to control, and they get excited as their designs come to life.” The tactile experience of tufting, combined with the artistic freedom to create any design, makes the craft both rewarding and relaxing.Tailoring the Experience to Each GuestOne of the highlights of Tuft A Rug is the flexibility it offers in both design and time commitment. Workshops last from one to six hours, depending on the size of the rug, which can range from a mini 15” x 12” piece to a 35” x 32” masterpiece. The cost varies based on size, with prices from $40 to $150, making it an affordable creative escape. Unlike many art workshops that require participants to bring their own supplies, Tuft A Rug provides everything needed to complete the project. The team even finishes each rug with a professional touch, allowing participants to pick up or ship their rugs home once they’re ready, typically within 1-3 weeks.From start to finish, the process is guided by experienced instructors who ensure that everyone—whether a first-timer or an art enthusiast—feels confident using the tufting machine and expressing their creativity. The workshop is beginner-friendly, with patient and knowledgeable staff helping participants feel at ease as they work.

On Monday, downtown Aurora came alive with patriotic spirit as the community gathered for the annual Veterans Day parade and celebration. Aurora resident Becky Hoff proudly represented her family members who served in the armed forces, marching with others to pay tribute to veterans.The highlight of the event was a moving speech by Jessica Lynch, a former U.S. Army private first class and former prisoner of war, whose harrowing experiences during the Iraq War have made her a symbol of resilience. Lynch, who was captured in 2003 and later rescued in an unprecedented military operation, shared her story with the crowd. Describing the moment American forces found her in an Iraqi hospital, she recalled hearing the comforting words, “We’re Americans, and we’ve come to take you home.” Lynch’s account resonated deeply, offering a reminder of the sacrifices made by service members. Her message of hope and resilience—“keep a positive attitude, no matter what you are going through”—served as an inspiration to all in attendance.Aurora’s Veterans Day celebration also included awards for local veterans who continue to contribute to the community. Mayor Richard Irvin, himself an Army veteran, honored four veterans-turned-entrepreneurs who have given back to the community by creating local businesses. Among them were Fatima Kahiga of Pure Skin Solutions, Marine veteran Craig Melby of Viking Brothers, Robert Velasquez of Semper Fi Land Services, and Mike Saltijeral, owner of multiple local businesses.Veterans Day, which originated as Armistice Day following World War I, was officially expanded by President Dwight D. Eisenhower in 1954 to honor all veterans. Speaking on the importance of the holiday, Irvin emphasized the deep gratitude owed to those who served, stating, “Your dedication to our country has made us stronger.” Echoing this sentiment, Mike Eckburg, commander of the local American Legion Post 84, urged that all veterans feel the respect and gratitude of their community.From moving tributes to supportive crowds along Downer Place, the event underscored Aurora’s commitment to honoring the men and women who serve. As the city continues to grow, its dedication to its veterans remains unwavering, creating a legacy of respect and remembrance for generations to come.

The Kane County Board is poised to consider a $2 million property tax levy increase, which proponents argue will help the county keep pace with inflation. The proposed increase follows the recommendation of two committees on Thursday.If approved, this increase would mark the first time since 2013 that the county has raised the property tax levy, excluding adjustments for new construction, according to Kane County Finance Director Kathleen Hopkinson. While property tax rates have decreased since 2014 due to rising property values and new construction, the proposed levy increase is intended to offset the effects of inflation.The proposed increase, excluding new construction, is set at 3.4% to match the Consumer Price Index (CPI), a key inflation measure published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This is the maximum allowable increase under state law, which caps property tax levy hikes to either the CPI or 5%, whichever is lower.At Thursday’s meetings, the Kane County Board Finance and Budget Committee voted 3-2, while the Kane County Executive Committee voted 10-4, to recommend the increase. Those in favor included board members Deborah Allan, Anita Lewis, Mavis Bates, Dale Berman, Michelle Gumz, Chris Kious, Michael Kenyon, Michael Linder, Cherryl Strathmann, and Vern Tepe. Those opposed were Mark Davoust, Myrna Molina, Jarett Sanchez, Clifford Surges, and Bill Lenert. Board member Leslie Juby voted “present,” meaning she did not cast a vote either for or against the recommendation.Supporters of the increase argued that it is necessary to ensure the county can continue to fund essential services. Board member Michael Kenyon emphasized that the purpose of the tax hike is to provide revenue to support public services, while other members, like Deborah Allan, stated that adjustments for inflation should be a routine matter for local governments to keep their budgets current.However, some board members who opposed the increase expressed concerns about the timing, particularly with a sales tax referendum set to appear on the ballot in April. The referendum proposes a 0.75% increase in the county’s sales tax, which could generate over $50 million annually. Critics, such as Mark Davoust, felt that raising property taxes now could hurt the referendum’s chances, as voters may see it as a double tax increase.The county has been relying on reserve funds to balance its budget since 2023, and officials have warned that without additional revenue or significant cuts, the county will face financial challenges in the coming years. The proposed $416.6 million draft budget for 2025 includes $29.3 million in reserves from the general fund to balance the budget, though this figure does not yet account for the proposed $2 million property tax levy increase.Kane County officials have also noted that federal pandemic relief funds helped prop up the budget from 2020 to 2022. Without these funds, the county would have needed to dip further into its reserves during those years.The Kane County Board will vote on both the budget and the proposed tax increase at its meeting on November 12. The budget must be finalized before the new fiscal year begins on December 1.For further updates, visit the Aurora Beacon-News or sign up for their newsletter.Source: Chicago Tribune

Aurora has just welcomed a new Dunkin' location on the city's west side, marking another addition to the popular coffee chain's presence in the area. The new drive-thru, located at 809 N. Lake St. between Wendy's and Mariscos El Huichol, celebrated its grand opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by city officials. This event was the 65th ribbon-cutting for Aurora this year, showcasing the city's continued growth and business development.The Dunkin', branded with the slogan Aurora Runs on Dunkin' is owned by Shreeji Management Group. This group already operates several other Dunkin' franchises throughout Aurora, making this the sixth Dunkin' location in the city.To mark the grand opening, Dunkin' offered a special treat for the first 100 guests who arrived by 9 a.m.: a booklet of coupons granting free coffee for an entire year. This exciting promotion drew enthusiastic locals to the event, giving early attendees a reason to celebrate alongside Dunkin' and the city's representatives.With this new location, residents and visitors on Aurora's west side can now enjoy even more convenient access to Dunkin's beloved coffee and donuts, strengthening the brand's ties to the Aurora community.

AURORA, IL – The winter magic of Disney’s Frozen is coming to life in Aurora! For the first time ever, Disney’s Frozen the Broadway Musical is receiving its Midwest Regional Premiere at the iconic Paramount Theatre in downtown Aurora.Running through January 19, 2025, this stage adaptation of the beloved Disney animated film brings the enchanting world of Arendelle to the stage with spectacular set designs, dazzling special effects, and a score filled with iconic songs. The musical retains all the beloved hits from the film, including the award-winning “Let It Go,” “For the First Time in Forever,” “Love Is an Open Door,” and “Do You Want to Build a Snowman?” The stage version is a visual and musical feast that will delight audiences of all ages.The show’s 12-week run at the Paramount Theatre is the longest in the history of the Paramount Broadway Series, and with nearly 40,000 Broadway subscribers already signed up, it’s clear that Frozen is a highly anticipated holiday event. In fact, the production’s press opening on November 8th has already sparked excitement throughout the Chicagoland area.An Affordable Holiday ExperienceWhile tickets for Broadway shows in downtown Chicago can often be expensive, Paramount Theatre is offering tickets for Frozen at a fraction of the price, with tickets ranging from $28 to $95. Families can enjoy this spectacular performance at a cost that’s both affordable and memorable. Plus, with easy and inexpensive parking and a host of new dining options nearby, Paramount is the perfect destination for a magical family outing this holiday season.For those looking to extend the holiday spirit, visitors can also enjoy a two-story Christmas tree in the Paramount Grand Gallery and visit the free Christkindlmarket Aurora at nearby RiverEdge Park.A Timeless Story of Love, Loyalty, and Self-DiscoveryIn this reimagined stage production, Elsa and Anna, the royal sisters from Arendelle, navigate love, loyalty, and Elsa’s uncontrollable magical powers. As Elsa struggles to accept her identity and powers, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery, learning to embrace her gifts with the help of those she loves. The story beautifully captures the themes of sisterhood and the enduring power of love, making Frozen a perfect holiday experience for everyone.Show Information & TicketsPerformances of Disney’s Frozen the Broadway Musical run through January 19, 2025, at the Paramount Theatre, located at 23 E. Galena Blvd. in downtown Aurora. To purchase tickets, subscribe for the Broadway Series, or find more information, visit ParamountAurora.com or call (630) 896-6666. Tickets are also available at the Paramount box office Monday through Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and until showtime on performance days.Don’t miss this magical opportunity to experience the Broadway phenomenon of Frozen in Aurora—reserve your tickets today and create unforgettable memories with family and friends at the Paramount Theatre this holiday season!

What’s the must-have fall dessert to kick off your cozy season? 🎃🍎 • Pumpkin Muffins 🎃 • Apple Fritters 🍏 • Cinnamon Rolls 🍂 •Pecan Pie 🥧Drop your votes below and tell us where you get your favorite! Let’s find out which fall treat takes the top spot in Aurora! 👇

Downtown Aurora is buzzing with excitement as it prepares to welcome Rec Haus, a vibrant activity and game bar set to open in Spring 2025. Nestled along the picturesque Fox River at 100 South River Street, Unit 102, Rec Haus promises to become a cornerstone of the city’s growing social and entertainment scene.This 9,000+ square-foot space is located on the second floor of the historic Pocus Motors Building, now home to the beloved Society 57. Built in 1928, this nearly 100-year-old landmark holds a rich history as one of Aurora’s architectural gems. The building was originally used as a car dealership and repair shop during the height of Aurora’s industrial boom, showcasing the city’s historic ingenuity and craftsmanship. Today, it’s being reimagined as a social hub that merges past and present, offering a unique blend of vintage charm and modern fun.At Rec Haus, the building’s original brick walls, towering ceilings, and expansive windows will remain exposed, preserving its timeless beauty while creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. The renovation honors its industrial roots while bringing new life to the space as a dynamic venue for fun, games, and community connection.An Upscale Activity Hub for EveryoneRec Haus isn’t just another bar—it’s an experience. Whether you’re meeting friends for a night out, celebrating a special occasion, or looking for a family-friendly outing, Rec Haus has something for everyone.Games and Activities:With a curated selection of activities like Bocce, Shuffleboard, Pool, Darts, Pinball, Skeeball, Basketball, and more, Rec Haus combines classic bar games with an upscale twist. The venue is designed to inspire laughter, competition, and camaraderie.Craft Drinks and Local Flavor:The bar will feature a rotating selection of local craft beers, signature cocktails, and a variety of wines, offering something for every taste. Whether you’re unwinding after a meal at Craft Urban Aurora or Leilani Asian Fusion, or stopping by after a show at the Paramount Theatre or The Venue, Rec Haus will be the perfect addition to your downtown Aurora adventure.A Perfect Fit for Aurora’s Growing Cultural SceneRec Haus is more than a place to play games; it’s a reflection of Aurora’s dynamic spirit. Its location puts it at the heart of the city’s cultural district, within walking distance of theatres, shops, and restaurants. It also builds on the revitalization of downtown Aurora, offering a fresh, modern space that encourages locals and visitors alike to gather, connect, and enjoy everything the city has to offer.Opening Spring 2025Aurora is ready to embrace this exciting new concept, and the countdown to opening day is on. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual game night, an unforgettable date, or just great drinks in a lively setting, Rec Haus will be the go-to destination for good times.Stay tuned for updates, sneak peeks, and more as Rec Haus prepares to open its doors.This Spring, come for the games, stay for the memories, and make Rec Haus your next favorite hangout spot in downtown Aurora.

Aurora just got a whole lot more exciting with the opening of Slick City Action Park, the world’s first indoor slide park. Located at 1830 Towne Center in North Aurora, this 30,000-square-foot venue offers a thrilling, waterless slide experience for visitors of all ages. But the story of Slick City is about more than just slides—it’s a tale of community pride and innovation brought to life by Aurora native Kevin Dugal.A Local Visionary Brings Adventure HomeVice President Kevin Dugal, started his career in family entertainment right here in Aurora, has spent 18 years shaping the industry. From laser tag to trampoline parks, Kevin’s expertise has taken him across the nation, helping open countless facilities. Yet, bringing Slick City to his hometown is a deeply personal accomplishment.“This is truly special to me,” Kevin shares. “Aurora is where I grew up, and I wanted to give back to the community that shaped me.” His efforts highlight the importance of building strong local ties, where business owners and alumni choose to reinvest in their hometowns, creating vibrant spaces that attract both residents and visitors.What Makes Slick City SpecialSlick City is more than a slide park—it’s a state-of-the-art facility designed for fun, fitness, and family bonding. Key features include: • Giant Dry Slides: Multiple slides of varying heights and speeds for all ages. • Sports Air Court: Perfect for games and group activities. • Kids’ Zone: A safe space for the little ones to enjoy. • Arcade & Zipline: Added attractions that keep the excitement going.Kevin’s patented "Slick Sauce" slide technology, with over 40 innovations, ensures a unique and thrilling experience for every visitor. What’s more, Slick City isn’t just for kids—nearly 20% of visitors are adults looking for their own dose of fun!A Community AssetBeyond its attractions, Slick City is an economic and social boon for Aurora. With plans to open 500 locations nationwide, the Aurora park stands out as the first in Illinois and a flagship for the brand’s growth. Events like home school playdays, sensory-friendly sessions, birthday parties, and corporate outings ensure that Slick City caters to a diverse audience.Kevin’s dedication to his hometown underscores a broader message: Aurora is a place of opportunity and innovation, and supporting local businesses fuels its progress.Grand Opening & BeyondSlick City Action Park hosted its grand opening on October 29, and the excitement hasn’t slowed since. Tickets start at just $13.99, offering an affordable way to enjoy a day of adventure.So, whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a parent planning a family outing, or someone looking to support a local success story, Slick City is the place to be. Kevin Dugal’s vision is not just about slides—it’s about fostering community, creating memories, and putting Aurora on the map as a destination for unique, family-friendly entertainment.Come out, experience the buzz, and slide into fun at Slick City Action Park in North Aurora!

The Aurora City Council will vote this Tuesday on allocating funds for safety improvement projects along New York Street, particularly near Fox Valley Mall and Pacifica Square on the city’s East Side.The proposal seeks to approve an additional $56,075 for an engineering contract with WBK Engineering, LLC. Along with this, $60,000 from motor fuel tax funds would be allocated to cover the project’s initial phase.The planned improvements target a section of New York Street between Commons Drive and Entrance 6 at Fox Valley Mall. Key upgrades include replacing outdated traffic signal equipment, adding dual left-turn lanes at intersections, widening curbs to accommodate larger vehicles, and extending pedestrian and bike paths to meet Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards.One significant change involves modifying intersections to allow left turns exclusively on a designated left-turn arrow, enhancing traffic flow and safety. Details about the project, including exhibits, are available on the city of Aurora’s website.The city originally applied for federal funding through the Highway Safety Improvement Project in June 2022, receiving approval for up to 90% of the costs associated with preliminary engineering, design, construction, and oversight. To date, about $2.4 million in federal funding has been secured, covering all project phases.With an expanded project scope since the initial application, additional federal funds have been requested and awarded. The Illinois Department of Transportation is expected to begin the bidding process for the project in late 2025.This vote marks a step toward improving traffic safety and accessibility for both drivers and pedestrians in a key commercial area of Aurora.