A former retirement community executive who has toured and evaluated more than 170 independent, assisted-living and nursing home locations will deliver a free seminar on Thursday, October 2, at Spring Meadows senior living community in Naperville.

An organization formed to provide early detection of heart problems is criss-crossing the nation to offer free heart screenings.

Northern Suburban Special Recreation Foundation to host Annual SWING Golf Outing to benefit the Northern Suburban Special Recreation Association

A final round of auditions for Fright Fest performers at Six Flags Great America will be held Friday, Saturday and Sunday, Sept. 12-14. A large cast is needed to fill a variety of roles -- both onstage and backstage -- for the production, which is scheduled across weekends in October. Applicants must be at least 16 years of age; those under 18 must obtain their parent’s approval/signature. All applicants should bring a photo ID and they must be able to clear background checks.

Dozens of star struck elementary school students could not keep their eyes off Miss Illinois, who was donning a shiny silver crown and sparkling sash.

Clutching wrinkled scripts that have been folded and unfolded many times, a group of young actors run through dialogue from “The Wiz” as they prepare for an audition. In a corner, two girls quietly sing “Brand New Day.” Children who know one another debate who is perfect for the lead role, basing their choice on hair color. On the floor, a boy places a pair of tap shoes next to him while he puts on a pair of soft soled dance shoes. A nervous, yet excited energy fills the room.