For 26 years, Elmfest has been bringing family entertainment, carnival rides and favorite food to downtown Elmhurst. This year's event boasts more food vendors, a local band's 20th reunion show and a lineup of tribute bands for a weekend of everyone...

Mike Owen is a 21-year-old Elmhurst resident diagnosed with a high functioning form of autism. He taught himself to paint and draw by watching television five years ago. Karen Light is a self-proclaimed "Artivator," meaning artist, activist and edu...

• Merriebeth Cox, 17, of Roselle, the reigning Miss Illinois Outstanding Teen 2007 and national award-winning baton twirler, was named Purdue University's "Golden Girl" for 2008. She has been twirling since she was 3 and recently competed with seve...