Briefs: Gospel Fest tonight at ECC

Gospel Fest, a part of Elgin Community College's celebration of Black History Month, will be held at 7 tonight in the Fox Valley University and Business Dining Room on the ECC Main Campus, 1700 Spartan Drive, Elgin. Featured during the free Gospel Fest are the McDonald's African-American Council Choir, choirs from several Elgin area churches, praise dancers and a soloist. Call Anitra King at (847) 214-7262.

Help for gas customers

Nicor Gas encourages qualified customers who are struggling to pay their heating bills to apply to the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program and benefit from the recently released $29 million in extra funding. To qualify, household monthly income cannot exceed 150 percent of the federally established poverty level. For details or to apply, visit www.liheapillinois.com or call the toll-free information line at (877) 411-9276.

District 300 ups allowance

The Community Unit District 300 school board has voted to raise the meal allowances for board members. The new policy allows board members to be reimbursed for up to $15 for breakfast, $20 for lunch and $30 for dinner. The new allowances are $5 more than was previously reimbursable. The allowances have not been increased since 2002, board members said.

Black leaders honored

Today is the last day to make a reservation to attend the Black Business Owners and Community Networking Organization's third annual awards dinner and dance. The event, which also features entertainment from illusionist David Shareef, takes place at 6:30 p.m. Saturday at The Seville Banquet Hall, 700 Barrington Road, Streamwood. Several black leaders and youths will be honored for various community contributions. Tickets are $50 and can be reserved by calling group President Shirley Bassett at (847) 627-9533.