🚘 What’s the worst local intersection?

Do you ever find yourself asking, “Is it just me, or have people simply forgotten how to drive since the pandemic?”

If so, you’re not the only one. Studies show that poor driving behavior has indeed increased.

In few places is reckless driving more apparent than at busy intersections. We’ve got quite a few of those around here.

For example, the Fabyan Parkway and Route 31 intersection in Batavia is notorious for its dangerous design. And then there’s the reputation of “Killer Kirk” Road.

But depending on where you live or what your daily route looks like, chances are you’ve got your own 'white-knuckle' intersection that ticks up the blood pressure whenever you approach it.

Which leads us to today’s poll:

There are clearly myriad other viable candidates — this list is just a starting point. Looking forward to your thoughts!

📰 News to use

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☑️ Coroner race: The candidates for Kane County coroner offered different viewpoints on several key issues, including a disagreement over the importance of a medical background for the role.

☑️ Resident input: Batavia is holding a public hearing on Monday (10/21) to discuss creating a Special Service Area (SSA) that could affect taxes for those in the Ashton Ridge area.

🔒 Election update: The Daily Herald has endorsed the experienced incumbent Corinne Pierog for Kane County Board Chair, framing the decision as “a choice between two competent but imperfect candidates.”

☑️ Severe weather: As the climate changes and weather patterns get turbocharged, it’s becoming more likely that future hurricanes could affect the Tri-Cities area.

🔒 Command shift: Get to know Jeremy Mauthe, the long-time firefighter who will take the next step in his 20-year career at the St. Charles Fire Department when he takes over as Fire Chief at the end of October.

☑️ Ongoing project: Work continues in Geneva and St. Charles to reconstruct and widen Kautz Road, with the current traffic detour expected to remain in place through October.

🏘️ In the community

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☑️ Flower power: As part of the Project Daffodil initiative, volunteers will be planting 5,000 mixed daffodil bulbs and 150 Virginia Blue Bell plants at Mt. St. Mary Park in St. Charles on Saturday (10/19). Get the details here.

☑️ Hard-to-recycle stuff: Kane County residents can now recycle a more expansive list of household items at the permanent recycling location in Batavia. See what will be accepted.

☑️ Straw spectacular: St. Charles was rocking thanks to Scarecrow Fest last weekend. See photos of displays and activities around town.

☑️ Health & safety: Local community organizations willing to tackle housing challenges for at-risk residents may be eligible for part of $1M in funding as part of a new Kane County Health Department program.

🔒 Positive transformation: Created to honor a local teen’s legacy, a newly unveiled mural in downtown St. Charles aims to inspire kindness and drive awareness for mental health issues.

☑️ Unanimous approval: Geneva’s Historic Preservation Commission has recommended a historic landmark designation for the Brownson-Baumann House on S. Batavia Avenue.

🎸 Live music

It looks like we’re going to eke out yet another seasonally beautiful weekend. Let’s take advantage of it!

This weekend’s lineup features a performance at Hawk Country Club, a Tom Petty Birthday Celebration and a special show at the Hunt House Creative Arts Center — all in St. Charles.

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🍁 Cozy up to autumn at The Little Traveler

As the leaves turn and temperatures drop, it’s time to embrace the warmth of The Little Traveler. Discover plush throw blankets, aromatic candles and festive decor to transform your home into a cozy retreat.

💥 Tip: Visit the Atrium Café for a chance to dip delectable fondue treats into warm, Belgian chocolate — an indulgence that’s perfect for the season.

🛍️ Local biz

☑️ Eat mor chikin: The new St. Charles Chick-fil-A will open at 6:30AM Thursday (10/17) on Route 64 — next door to Olive Garden and across the street from Charlestowne Mall on the east side.

☑️ Economic engine: Kane County has established a new nonprofit that will coordinate local economic efforts to help guide growth, support existing businesses and attract new ones to the area.

🗓️ Events & Things to Do

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🎟️ Vegan Meetup | Fri 10/18, 10AM-12PM | New Moon Vegan, Batavia | Sip coffee and eat tasty food with like-minded neighbors.

☑️ Used Book Sale | Fri 10/18, 2:30PM - Sun 10/20, 3PM | STC Public Library | Incredible deals on books, CDs, DVDs and more.

☑️ Witches Night Out | Fri 10/18, 6-8PM | Batavia Boardwalk Shops | Festive fun downtown with sales, treats, drinks and more.

🎟️ Halloween Dance Party | Fri 10/18, 7-11PM | The Dance Lab, STC | A BYOB celebration with live music from Afternoon Logic (costumes optional).

🎟️ Arts & Crafts @ Cottages in the Woods | Sat 10/19, 10AM - Sun 10/20, 4PM | Good Templar Park, Geneva | Family fun and Swedish treats — plus tiny houses!

☑️ Happy Hooves Fall Fest | Sat 10/19, 11AM-4PM | Happy Hooves Farm, Elburn | Enjoy crafts, carnival games, raffles, tractor rides, food and more.

🎟️ Witchcraft Beer Fest | Sat 10/19, 6-10PM | Cougars Stadium, Geneva | Taste beers from 25 local breweries, plus food trucks and games.

☑️ Sweater Weather Sip n’ Shop | Sun 10/20, 12-5PM | Pollyanna Brewing, STC | Support local, get new cozy fall gear and enjoy food/drink.

🌖 Weather snapshot

🌤️ Today: High 68F | Low 39F | Nice warmup

☀️ Friday: High 73F | Low 40F | Amazing

☀️ Saturday: High 73F | Low 41F | Amazing

☀️ Sunday: High 74F | Low 45F | Amazing

📖 Thanks for reading

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