Briefs: Dist. 158 seeks mediation

Huntley Unit District 158 and it teachers union have asked for federal mediation in their ongoing contract negotiations, officials said Thursday. A Huntley Education Association proposal calls for pay raises totaling 10.6 percent per teacher. The proposal also calls for the district to cover more of the teachers' retirement contributions. The district said the school board "would not approve any contract which included annual deficit spending." Under the district's proposal for a four-year contract, most teachers would get a 4.25 percent raise next year. The next negotiation session will take place Monday.

Study clears first hurdle

Elgin City Council members this week voiced no major objections against a $291,000 study on the aging Hemmens Cultural Center. City leaders said a detailed study of how much it would cost to renovate or expand the facility, which opened in 1969, is needed before a decision can be made to work on it or erect a new one. City officials said they believe a facility with more than 1,200 seats is needed to stay competitive and patrons have complained of poor acoustics. The council is expected next month to give the final OK for the study, which will be completed by December.

School DAREs to graduate

Lowrie Elementary School fifth-graders will participate a DARE graduation at 1 p.m. today. The graduation a culmination of 10 weeks of work with Elgin police officers and the students. Along with staying away from alcohol, drugs and tobacco, students learned to combat peer pressure in the program. The graduation will be held in the school's gym, 264 Oak St. in Elgin.

Campton cruise nights

Weekly cruise nights featuring hot rods and vintage vehicles are planned through September in Campton Hills. The events take place from 6 to 9 p.m. every Friday at Campton Crossings shopping center along Route 64. Cruise nights also include 50s and 60s music and trophies. Call (630) 584-5700.