Hamilton Wings starts website to remember Risé Jones
Elgin arts organization Hamilton Wings has launched a website to celebrate the life and legacy of one of its founders, Risé Jones, who died earlier this month.
The public is welcome to share their memories of Jones on the page, www.letterstorisedawnjones.org.
“We have opened this website, as friends and family of Dr. Jones, for what she would call a creative invitation, where you can feel welcome to step into and express your full self by writing a letter to Risé Dawn Jones,” the site says.
Jones, 58 and a lifelong Elgin resident, died unexpectedly Dec. 7 from a pulmonary embolism. In addition to her work with Hamilton Wings, she was known for her community involvement with organizations that included the Elgin Area Chamber of Commerce, Elgin Community College and the Elgin YWCA.
A memorial for Jones is scheduled for 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 4, followed by a service at noon at Elgin Community College’s Blizzard Theatre, 1700 Spartan Drive.
Elgin History Museum selling Elgin-related books, yearbooks
The Elgin History Museum is selling rare, out-of-print Elgin history books that have come into its collection over time but are not needed by the organization.
Books can be shipped for an additional $8 or picked up during the open hours at the museum, 360 Park St., according to a news release. Museum members receive a 15% discount on purchases.
To request a title, arrange payment and for more information, email museum@elginhistory.org.
Available books include “Elgin: An American History” by E.C. Alft, $30; “A History of Elgin Country Club: Part One, 1901-1948,” $5; “Madman Muntz: American Maverick,” $5; “Modern Elgin: 130 Years of Progress in Commerce & Industry,” $25; “Old Main: A National Historic Site” (booklet), $2; “A History of Elgin Academy of Northwestern University,” $15; “The Sweep of Time: The History of Elgin Sweeper Company,” $10; “Elgin on the Fox,” $2; “Goodbye Elgin High” by Mike Bailey, $15;
Also, “Plan of Elgin,” copyright 1917, $15; “St. Joseph’s Parish; The First 100 years, 1887-1987,” $5; “Elgin Area Landmarks: A Community Heritage Tour Guide” by E.C. Alft, $5; “American Eagle” by Trygve A. Rovelstad, $5; “Historic Resources in the Northeast Neighborhood: A Summary and Inventory,” $5; “The History of the Elgin Symphony Orchestra from 1950-1985” by Dean Chipman, $10; City Directories from 1976 with a celebratory red, white and blue bicentennial colored cover and 1986, $10 each; “Pieces: The Story of Elgin in a Quilt,” $5.
High school yearbooks are also being sold, including the Elgin High School Maroon from 1952, 1963 and 1981, $10-$15, and the Larkin High School Cerulean from 1969, 1970, 1976 and 1977, $10 each.
Used books available in the museum bookstore include “Elgin’s Black Heritage,” $2; “Elgin Days Gone By,” $2; and “Sherman Hospital: Century of Caring, 1888-1988,” $5; all written by E.C. Alft.
Kane state’s attorney reappointed to elder law commission
Kane County State’s Attorney Jamie Mosser has been reappointed to the Illinois Supreme Court Commission on Elder Law.
Effective Jan. 1, it is Mosser’s second two-year term, according to a news release.
The Commission on Elder Law was established in 2022 to examine how courts can better serve the needs of the elderly.
“Protecting the most vulnerable individuals has always been a priority for me,” Mosser said in the release. “As our population ages, it is critical to ensure our laws and practices are equipped to safeguard these citizens from exploitation. I am proud of the work the commission has accomplished so far, and I look forward to advancing its mission in the coming years.”
Elgin Symphony Orchestra seeking volunteer concert ushers
The Elgin Symphony Orchestra is looking for people to join its volunteer usher team.
Volunteers scan tickets, hand out programs and direct audience members to their seats, according to an ESO social media post. Standing for long periods of time and climbing stairs may be required.
The symphony holds most of its concerts at the Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way, Elgin. For a performance schedule, go to www.elginsymphony.org.
For more information or to volunteer, email patron services manager Luiza Moraes at l.moraes@elginsymphony.org.
