Briefs: $45,000 raised for ECC
Two Elgin Community College alumni, an employee and a St. Charles family capped off a Founders' Brunch that set a fundraising record for the 10th annual event. A total of 270 people attended the Jan. 20 brunch, which raised $45,000 for students and instructional programs of ECC. The Hunt family of St. Charles, Paul Dawson, ECC's managing director of facilities, and alumni William Nolan and Brian Hoffman all received honors.
Firehouse Chili festival
West Chicago Park District will sponsor its annual Firehouse Chili Fest from 5 to 7 p.m. Saturday at VFW Post 6791, 431 N. Neltnor Blvd. Among the fire districts competing this year are West Chicago, Winfield, Carol Stream and Addison. Guests will be able to vote on their favorite chili for the People's Choice Award, and a panel of judges will select the best chili for the Judges Choice Award. This year's judges are John Karwoski, owner of John's Buffet in Winfield; West Chicago Mayor Michael Kwasman; and West Chicago resident Kevin Malony. The price is $7 for adults and $5 for senior citizens and children 12 and younger. Net proceeds benefit the Illinois Fire Safety Alliance Burn Camp. Call (630) 231-9474.
Tax help for seniors
Free confidential tax preparation service will be provided to senior citizens Thursday afternoons, Feb. 14 to April 10, at the Geneva Township Senior Center, 400 Wheeler Drive, Geneva. It is being provided by the AARP Tax-Aide volunteers. Appointments are required. Call (630) 232-3602.
Dad, son baseball camp
St. Charles North High School will have its 3rd Annual Spring Training Father and Son Baseball Camp Feb. 17. The program is open to children in second through eighth grades and their fathers. Admission is $110 a duo or $175 for groups of three or more. Training will be from 1 to 5 p.m. at North, 255 Red Gate Road. Participants will receive a meal and T-shirt, but must provide their own bats and gloves. Enrollment is limited to the first 120 registrants. Call (630) 443-8562.
Bridal expo coming
The Hilton Garden Inn in St. Charles will host its annual bridal expo Feb. 24. The event is from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at 4070 E. Main St. Admission is free. Call (630) 762-6821.