Briefs: Dilger remains on ballot
Dark horse 14th Congressional District candidate Michael Dilger will stay on the Republican primary ballot, the Illinois State Board of Elections decided Thursday. Two people had objected to his petitions, saying many signatures were not valid. But a board hearing officer said the objection should be thrown out because it didn't follow the proper procedures. The board agreed. The board also set Monday through Dec. 17 as the filing dates for the spring's special election to fill retired U.S. Rep. Dennis Hastert's seat.
Ski by candlelight tonight
The McHenry County Conservation District will host its Candlelight Cross County Ski Program from 5 to 9 p.m. tonight and Saturday at The Hollows Conservation Area, 3804 Route 14, Cary. Bring your own skis and enjoy refreshments afterward around the campfire. Skiers of every level and age are welcome to ski trails lit by candlelight. Call (815) 338-6223 or visit MCCDistrict.org.
Free show for military folk
For the second year in a row, the Elgin Symphony Orchestra and the Sears Centre in Hoffman Estates are offering free tickets to active members of the military, reserve and National Guard and their families for the Holiday Showcase at 7:30 p.m. Saturday. Last year, more than 1,400 active military personnel and their families attended the symphony orchestra's annual holiday show. This year's Holiday Showcase will feature performances by Cirque du Soleil entertainers, internationally competitive ice dancers, the symphony orchestra and a chorus of hundreds featuring the Elgin Choral Union, the Elgin Children's Chorus, area high school choirs and the Chicago Jazz Synchronized Ice Skating Troupe. Tickets for military personnel are available online at www.uso.org/illinois and the USO Ticket Offers section of the Web site. Tickets for the general public are $29 to $59 and available by calling (888) SEARSTIX or visiting www.searscentre.com.
E. Dundee seeks best lights
East Dundee's community events committee will hold its annual Holiday Decorating Contest between Dec. 17 and 21. Light your home or business and you are entered to win. Three homes and three businesses will be selected. Winners will be awarded at the Jan. 21 village board meeting and will be featured in the village's spring newsletter.