The briefs

Elgin program to honor Patriot Day

An Elgin city-wide program to recognize those who were a part of Sept. 11, 2001 as well as reflect on how the world has changed since this tragic date will be held at 9 a.m. Sept. 11 at the Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way, Elgin.

Sponsored by Elgin AMVets Post 202, this sixth annual program will feature keynote speaker Rosamaria Martinez. An Elgin native, she is the first Hispanic female to hold the position of Commander of Elgin American Legion Post No. 57. She is a veteran of the U.S. Army and spent time in Egypt, Germany, and South Korea.

Other participants include Elgin Mayor Ed Schock, Police Chief Lisa Womack, and a Color Guard from the Elgin Police Department. A firing squad by AMVets Post 202 will conclude the event. The 45-minute program will include an invocation and benediction by the Rev. Mona Walker of First United Methodist Church of Elgin and the singing of "God Bless America" by Rise Jones. Elgin historian and teacher Jerry Turnquist serves as the master of ceremonies. For details, call Robert Whiteleather at (847) 608-1481.

Bands, sign up for festival contest

The Carpentersville Parks Committee will hold its inaugural Autumn Fest from 12:30 to 6 p.m. Sept. 9 in Carpenter Park, off Lord Avenue and Maple Street in Carpentersville. Entertainment and various activities like potato sack races will highlight the festival. Food and beverage vendors also will keep families fed and hydrated throughout the day.

To get the day started, a parade is set to loop around the park prior to festivities beginning. The village is seeking participants for the parade.

Additionally, if you have a band, sign up now for the Autumn Fest battle of the bands competition. For details, call Linda Ramirez-Sliwinski at (847) 836-4441.

Join car show at Heritage Fest

Heritage Fest presents the eighth annual car, truck and motorcycle show Sept. 15-16 on Main Street at Second Avenue in West Dundee. All show vehicles are invited. Register from 10 a.m. to noon. There is a $15 entry fee; $10 entry fee if registered both days. Awards will be presented by 4 p.m. each day with awards given to the top 25 vehicles Saturday and the top 50 vehicles Sunday. A DJ will be playing music and Boy Scout Troop 43 will be selling hamburgers, hot dogs and drinks.

For details call Mike Konwinski at (847) 895-0032 or John Pullaro at (847) 275-8290.