The briefs

Big Band sound re-created in Elgin

Holly Larocque and the Mark Ferguson Orchestra re-create a 1940s-style radio show in Big Band Broadcast at 7 p.m. today at the Hemmens, 45 Symphony Way, Elgin. This tribute to America's Greatest Generation is a high-powered return to the golden age of radio broadcasts from starlit ballrooms.

The audience is invited into a time warp with the first strains of the 13-piece Mark Ferguson Orchestra and their opening number "Singin' With the Big Bands," and guided on their sentimental journey by the '40s style patter of the engaging radio announcer. The tunes comprise classics of the Big Band era, such as "Don't Sit Under the Apple Tree," "Stardust," "In the Mood," and "And the Angels Sing," along with a few surprises and novelties along the way.

Tickets are $45 Golden Circle, $35 main floor and $30 for balcony. To order by phone, call (847) 931-5900 or order online at www.hemmens.org.

Find out about Master Gardeners

Working with people and plants, coupled with teaching and learning, are wonderful ways to spend your spare time.

If you are interested in learning about gardening and sharing what you learn with others, plan now to attend the University of Illinois Extension Master Gardener recruiting and informational meeting at 6 p.m. Monday.

The meeting will be held at the Extension office, 535 S. Randall Road in St. Charles.

Applications for the Kane County training beginning January will be available at the meeting. For information, call (630) 584-6166.

Send us holiday worship schedules

The Daily Herald will soon be publishing worship schedules and holiday activities for Thanksgiving services in the Neighbor section. The listing is free.

Houses of worship interested in including their special holiday services must send a press release to the Daily Herald no later than Monday. Send your Christmas worship schedule too, if it's available.

E-mail information to foxvalley@dailyherald.com or fax to (847) 608-0849.