Aurora

☀️🌊 It's heating up, Aurora! We want to know..Where’s your go-to spot to cool off in the summertime? 💦Vote below 👇 or comment with your hidden gem!Let’s find the coolest spots in town! ❄️

When it comes to chiropractic care that feels personal, professional, and community-rooted, Foundation Chiropractic in Oswego, IL continues to be a trusted name for families across the Fox Valley area.Located at 1210 Douglas Road, the clinic is now proudly led by Dr. Vanessa Ulloa, a bilingual chiropractor fluent in English and Spanish. Her ability to connect with patients across cultures—combined with her warm, compassionate approach—makes every visit feel comfortable, inclusive, and empowering.Whether treating a toddler with colic, a teen athlete recovering from injury, or a parent managing stress and posture issues, Dr. Vanessa delivers care that’s both expert and empathetic.Specializing in Pediatric, Prenatal, and Family Chiropractic CareAt Foundation Chiropractic, the focus is on more than just spinal alignment—it’s about helping the body function at its best.Dr. Vanessa offers specialized care in:Pediatric chiropractic – supporting better sleep, digestion, immune function, and developmental balancePrenatal chiropractic – easing discomfort, improving pelvic alignment, and preparing the body for smoother laborFamily chiropractic – reducing pain, improving posture, and restoring energy for patients of all agesCommon conditions treated include migraines, sciatica, neck and back pain, sports injuries, and more.A Gentle Approach Rooted in ResultsDr. Vanessa combines gentle, proven techniques with a modern understanding of nervous system health. Patients frequently report improvement in focus, mobility, sleep quality, and overall well-being—making Foundation Chiropractic a go-to destination for preventative and corrective care.A Welcoming Space That Feels Like HomeThe clinic’s open, inviting layout reflects the practice’s core values: clarity, connection, and community. Whether you speak English or Spanish, Dr. Vanessa and her team take time to listen, answer questions, and create a supportive environment where every patient feels heard and cared for.Start Your Wellness Journey TodayWhether you’re navigating pregnancy, raising energetic kids, or simply trying to feel better in your own body, Foundation Chiropractic is here to help you thrive—naturally.📍 Visit foundationoswego.com to schedule your first appointment or learn more.Foundation Chiropractic – Guiding Oswego Families Toward a Healthier Tomorrow with Dr. Vanessa Ulloa.Keywords: Oswego IL chiropractor, Dr. Vanessa Ulloa, Spanish-speaking chiropractor Oswego, pediatric chiropractic Oswego, prenatal chiropractor near me, family chiropractor, bilingual chiropractic care Oswego IL

Aurora’s beloved summer tradition, the Live & Uncorked Concert Series, returns to Blackberry Farm for 2025, offering eight weeks of live music, community spirit, and scenic beauty. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Blackberry Farm, this BYOB, 21+ event invites attendees to unwind every Thursday evening from June 5 through July 24. ⸻2025 Concert LineupEach Thursday at 7:00 PM (gates open at 6:15 PM), enjoy performances from a diverse array of bands:     •    June 5: Bon Journeyed – A tribute to Bon Jovi and Journey.    •    June 12: Disco Circus – High-energy disco and dance hits.    •    June 19: 90s Pop Nation – Your favorite ’90s pop anthems.    •    June 26: Semple – Rock and pop covers with a twist.    •    July 3: Billy Elton – Celebrating the music of Billy Joel and Elton John.    •    July 10: Breakfast Club – Totally ’80s hits.    •    July 17: Brady Lee – Modern country vibes.    •    July 24: Dancing Queen – An ABBA tribute to close the season.   ⸻Event Details    •    Location: Blackberry Farm, 100 S. Barnes Rd., Aurora, IL    •    Time: Thursdays, 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM (gates open at 6:15 PM)    •    Admission:    •    Early Bird Tickets: $10    •    Day-of Tickets: $12    •    Season Pass: $64 (access to all 8 concerts)    •    Amenities: Bring your own beverages (BYOB) and snacks; identification will be checked at entry. Snacks are also available for purchase at the Summer Kitchen.     Plan Your VisitGather your friends, pack your favorite drinks and snacks, and enjoy a summer evening filled with music and camaraderie. For tickets and more information, visit the Live & Uncorked Concert Series page (https://www.blackberryfarm.info/special-events/live-uncorked-concert-series/).Don’t miss this opportunity to create unforgettable summer memories at Blackberry Farm!

Aurora residents have had a lot to process over the past few weeks.First came the headline: Mercy Medical Center loses its Level II Trauma Center designation, due to multiple compliance issues identified by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH).But then, a surprising twist—Mercy received an “A” grade from the Leapfrog Group, a nationally respected watchdog for hospital safety.So, what gives? How can a hospital lose trauma certification but still be ranked among the safest in the country? And what does it mean for us as a community?Let’s break it down. What Happened with the Trauma Center?On April 20, 2025, IDPH revoked Mercy’s Level II Trauma Center designation citing:Lack of dedicated trauma surgery coverageImproper use of bypass protocol due to trauma surgeon unavailabilityMultiple violations of the Illinois Emergency Medical Services Systems ActWhile this does not impact general ER services, EMS will now route trauma cases to other facilities like Rush Copley Medical Center. Rep. Barbara Hernandez RespondsRepresentative Barbara Hernandez (D-Aurora) issued a public statement acknowledging the concern:“I am in active communication with both IDPH and Prime Healthcare to find a solution that will allow compliance to be restored… It’s important that we rectify this situation in a timely manner and support both patients and hospital staff.”Her proactive approach suggests this issue is not being ignored, but rather being actively addressed behind the scenes—something many Aurora residents will appreciate as healthcare access remains a top concern.🟢 So… What’s This “A” Grade All About?That “A” comes from the Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade, a national, peer-reviewed scoring system based on over 30 performance measures, including:Key Metrics That Earned Mercy an “A”:Low rates of infections (e.g. C. diff, MRSA)Effective hand hygiene and staff responsivenessSafe medication administrationStrong leadership on patient safetyThese measures don’t include trauma performance. Instead, they focus on how well the hospital prevents avoidable harm—things like:Surgical errorsHospital-acquired infectionsCommunication breakdowns between staff It’s entirely possible for a hospital to operate at a high level in general patient safety while simultaneously failing to meet the staffing requirements of a trauma center. What Does This Mean for Aurora?This complex picture raises several valid community questions:🟡 Is Barbara Hernandez’s intervention a step in the right direction?Yes—especially since her approach isn’t just reactive but also solution-oriented. Her coordination with IDPH and Prime Healthcare shows local advocacy is active and ongoing.🟡 Is an “A” grade fair despite the trauma revocation?Yes, based on the Leapfrog model. The “A” grade reflects everyday patient safety, not trauma capabilities. In many respects, Mercy is doing better than the headlines suggest.🟡 Is our hospital stronger than we thought in some areas?Absolutely. Mercy’s infection control and patient communication protocols are performing well above average. It’s easy to overlook these wins during controversy.🟡 Is the trauma revocation still a problem?Yes. Trauma readiness is about speed, specialization, and consistent availability. Losing that designation limits EMS options and places a greater burden on other area hospitals.🟡 Does the trauma volume decline reflect a safer Aurora?Possibly. If trauma admissions were decreasing, it could signal fewer violent incidents or accidents—a positive public safety trend. But the designation loss wasn’t based on volume—it was about readiness.🧭 What’s Next?The ER remains open for walk-ins. Don’t hesitate to seek care if you need it.EMS will reroute trauma patients to capable nearby hospitals.Residents should stay informed and engaged—this affects all of us.

Mark your calendars—Saturday, May 17 from 8AM to 2PM, the Fox Valley Garden Club is transforming the West Aurora Learning Center parking lot (1870 W. Galena Blvd.) into a full-blown celebration of local flavor, green thumbs, and community spirit.🌧️ Rain or shine🚗 Free parking Cash, card, and checks accepted Bring a wagon—you’ll need it!Plants, Plants, and More PlantsWhether you’re a seasoned gardener or a curious newbie, this sale has something for everyone:Perennials from local growers like Cheryl App, Midge Poore, and Susan MiddletonOrganic veggies & herbs from Fox Valley Organics, Cara’s Kreations, and David MarekRare finds like bearded irises (Iris Meisters), azaleas (Sofia Garcia), and potted trees (Midge Poore)Natural soil boosters from Northern Illinois Worm Farm and 2 Sisters FarmsEven Sav-A-Tree will be there to talk tree, plant, and lawn health! Food Lineup: A Global Feast in One LotHungry? You’re covered. This year’s food vendors are hand-picked to satisfy every craving:Maly’s Foods – Small-batch frozen vegan egg rolls (📧 pre-order at lisa@malysfood.com)Tamalex – Fresh tamales & drinks (📧 pre-order at orders.Tamalex@gmail.com)Brit’s Sweet Treats – Scones, cookies, pies, and all things baked and beautifulAlice’s Corner – Authentic Bolivian empanadasStrawberries BBQ – BBQ meats & homemade sides (📧 pre-order at Terri@strawberriesBBQ.com)Holy Pierogi – Pierogis & Polish sausagesRomanian Sweet & Savory Corner – Breads, muffins, cookies, and snacksKathryn’s Place – Fresh-squeezed juicesCraft Vendors You’ll Wish You Found SoonerThis isn’t just a plant sale—it’s a creative wonderland. Local artisans are bringing out everything from handmade jewelry to welded butterflies:Playing with Fire Welded Art – Garden critters made from silverware, tools & horseshoesFrenchrose Apothecary – Herbal sprays, oils, tinctures, and natural remediesJulie’s Jewels & Hazy J. Co. – Botanical jewelry, resin candles, and 3D printed artJunkin’ Creations – Mason jar birdfeeders, fused glass, paint-your-own concreteWild Flower Designs – Upcycled planters, paintings, and crocheted giftsAlbo Acres – Everything alpaca: socks, figures, dryer balls, and moreRusty Nail & Dottie’s Petals – Whimsical wood and metal garden décorMark Kurtz & Jim Ahng – Benches, birdhouses, planters, and functional garden furnitureAnd so much more you’ll want to come early just to see it all.Your Gardeners’ Sale Checklist✅ Arrive early for best selection✅ Bring your plant wish list✅ Bring cash, card, or checks✅ Bring a wagon or cart for your finds✅ Tag your haul with #BuzzInBloom and #AuroraBuzz💬 Why It MattersEvery dollar you spend supports community beautification projects led by the Fox Valley Garden Club. So while you’re taking home tomato seedlings, you’re also helping Aurora blossom—literally.

Aurora is buzzing with change and excitement this May 2025. From a historic mayoral inauguration to the community events, the city is embracing a fresh chapter. A New Era BeginsOn May 13, over a thousand residents gathered at the Paramount Theatre to witness the swearing-in of Mayor John Laesch and seven new city council members. Laesch, a Navy veteran and former alderman-at-large, brings a progressive vision focusing on reducing city debt, investing in green energy, and enhancing infrastructure. Notably, this council marks a milestone with one-third of its members being Latino, reflecting Aurora’s diverse community.  Community Events to Mark on Your CalendarAurora’s event calendar is packed with activities that cater to all interests:May 17: The Fox Valley Garden Club hosts its 28th Annual Plant Sale, featuring over 40 vendors and food trucks.  May 26: The Memorial Day Parade marches through downtown Aurora, honoring our nation’s heroes.June 8: The Aurora Pride Parade returns, celebrating love, diversity, and inclusion in the heart of the city.Get Involved and Share the BuzzAurora’s vibrant community thrives on participation. Here’s how you can engage: Attend Events: Support local initiatives by joining upcoming events and festivities.Share Your Experiences: Use the hashtag #AuroraBuzz to share photos and stories from events you attend.Stay Informed: Follow the City of Aurora’s official channels for the latest news and updates. Let’s come together to celebrate Aurora’s dynamic spirit and the exciting developments shaping our city’s future.

Aurora is preparing to turn the page on a new chapter of city leadership. In a two-part transition, the official swearing-inof newly elected officials will take place on Friday, May 10, followed by a community-wide inauguration celebrationon Tuesday, May 13 at the Paramount Theatre.This moment signals more than a change in office—it reflects the city’s forward momentum and the renewed energy around civic engagement.The Swearing-In – May 10 (Private)On May 10, in accordance with state law and official timelines, Aurora’s newly elected leaders—including Mayor-elect John Laesch and multiple alderpersons—will be formally sworn into office. This legal transition ensures leadership continuity and begins the clock on their official responsibilities.While this event is not open to the public, it marks the formal start of Aurora’s new administration.The Inauguration – May 13 (Public Event)The public is invited to celebrate Aurora’s new leadership at the community inauguration ceremony on Tuesday, May 13 at 6:30 PM, held at the historic Paramount Theatre. The evening will include student performances, speeches, and a post-ceremony reception where residents can meet and greet elected officials.Who’s being celebrated:Mayor John LaeschAldermen from Wards 1, 2, 4, 7, 9, 10At-Large Alderman Keith LarsonWhether you’re a longtime resident or new to the city, this is an opportunity to gather, reflect, and set expectations for Aurora’s next chapter.Why It MattersFrom development projects like the new Hollywood Casino to ongoing conversations around housing, safety, and education, Aurora stands at a critical point of growth. Leadership matters—and so does public participation.These events are about politics and they’re about progress.📍 Key DetailsOfficial Swearing-In (private): Friday, May 10, 2025Public Inauguration Celebration:🗓️ Tuesday, May 13 @ 6:30 PM📍 Paramount Theatre, 23 E Galena Blvd, Aurora, IL🎟️ Free & open to the publicLet’s show up for Aurora—and for each other.

In a moment of pride for the Aurora community, Ajay Teja Kavuri from Metea Valley High School has been awarded a prestigious National Merit Scholarship, rising above more than 16,000 high-achieving students nationwide.This rare achievement not only highlights the Ajay’s academic excellence but also reflects the strength of our local schools and educators in preparing the next generation of leaders, innovators, and changemakers.What Is the National Merit Scholarship?The National Merit Scholarship Program is one of the most respected academic competitions in the country. Each year, it identifies and honors the top high school students based on PSAT scores, academic performance, leadership, and community involvement.Out of over 1.5 million applicants, only about 7,000 students are selected for scholarships. These awards often include corporate-sponsored scholarships like the one granted to our Aurora honoree, which typically recognize excellence in STEM, business, or community impact.Why This MattersBeing named a National Merit Scholar isn’t just about a title—it often leads to full-ride scholarships, increased college admissions opportunities, and early recruitment by top-tier universities and employers. It also shines a national spotlight on Ajay’s home school district, educators, and support systems.For Aurora, this recognition is a reminder of the incredible talent growing right here in our own backyard.What’s Next for Aurora’s Rising Stars?This honor is a call to action for our entire community to continue investing in education, mentorship, and access to opportunities for youth. Whether it’s through tutoring programs, scholarship funds, or simply showing up for school events, we all have a role to play in shaping future success stories.We at Aurora Buzz extend a huge congratulations to Ajay Kavuri, their family, and the Metea Valley staff who helped make this possible.Know a student or teacher doing something extraordinary? Reach out—we’d love to share more stories of local brilliance.

Big flavor is coming to Aurora in a bold new way. As part of the exciting developments tied to the new Hollywood Casino Aurora location, the city will welcome Lucky Goat—a specialty burger joint led by none other than celebrity chef Stephanie Izard, famed for winning Top Chef and operating several award-winning restaurants in Chicago.What is Lucky Goat?Lucky Goat is not your average burger spot. Think gourmet burgers stacked with wild flavor combos, hand-cut fries, creamy milkshakes, and sides that go way beyond ketchup and mustard. If you’ve been to Girl & the Goat or Little Goat in Chicago, you already know: Stephanie Izard brings creativity, quality, and a bold twist to everything she cooks.This will be the first Lucky Goat location in Aurora and part of the major expansion of the new Hollywood Casino property. The casino is relocating from its longtime riverboat home downtown to a brand-new facility near Farnsworth Avenue and Bilter Road, just off I-88—making it even more accessible for locals and visitors alike.A Win for Aurora’s Food SceneThis isn’t just about burgers. Lucky Goat’s arrival signals Aurora’s growing reputation as a destination for more than just entertainment—it’s about food, culture, and community. As the new casino opens its doors, it’ll also usher in a new era of elevated dining, nightlife, and tourism for the city.Whether you’re there to try your luck or just get a bite, Lucky Goat promises to be one of the highlights.What’s Next?The new Hollywood Casino Aurora development is currently under construction and expected to open in 2026. Along with Lucky Goat, it will include:A full-service hotelEntertainment venuesTable games and slot machinesNew restaurants and barsFor now, get ready—and hungry. We’ll be sharing updates as construction progresses and menus are revealed.Aurora Buzz will be first in line to feature Lucky Goat when it opens—stay tuned for a behind-the-scenes look at what’s cooking.

In an era where digital notifications and endless scrolling dominate our attention, it’s easy to feel disconnected from the very community we live in. The constant barrage of information and the allure of social media can lead us away from meaningful, real-world interactions.A young boy once visited a circus and was amazed to see elephants tied to small stakes with thin ropes. Despite their immense strength, the elephants made no attempt to break free. Curious, the boy asked the trainer why. The trainer explained that when the elephants were young and smaller, they were tied with the same ropes. At that age, the ropes were strong enough to hold them. As they grew, they became conditioned to believe they couldn’t break free, so they never tried.This story mirrors our own experiences. We often become conditioned by our routines and the digital environments we inhabit, believing we can’t change or break free. But just like the elephants, the power to change lies within us.The Impact of Digital DistractionStudies have shown that excessive use of social media can lead to feelings of isolation, anxiety, and decreased attention spans. While these platforms offer connectivity, they can also create a false sense of community, replacing genuine human interactions with likes and comments.Building a Stronger CommunityTo counteract this, we can take proactive steps to reconnect with our community:Attend Local Events: Participate in community gatherings, workshops, and festivals.Volunteer: Offer your time and skills to local organizations and causes.Support Local Businesses: Choose to shop and dine locally, fostering economic growth and relationships.Engage in Face-to-Face Conversations: Make an effort to have meaningful discussions with neighbors and community members.Embracing ChangeJust as the elephants had the strength to break free from their ropes, we have the capacity to overcome digital distractions and rebuild our communities. By taking small, intentional steps, we can foster genuine connections and create a more engaged, supportive environment.Let’s challenge ourselves to look up from our screens and invest in the people and places around us. The strength of our community depends on the active participation of each member.For more insights on building meaningful connections and fostering community engagement, explore resources on community development and digital well-being.