Gowns For Good, a sale of deeply discounted wedding gowns, formal dresses and accessories, is set to take place on April 16 and 18 at The Haight, 166 Symphony Way, Elgin. The sale is open to those 16 and older and will include two-hour blocks at 3, 4 and 5 p.m. exclusively available to first responders. Proceeds will benefit the Illinois Public Pension Fund Association’s Heroes Family Fund, which provides financial assistance to the families of fallen law enforcement officers and firefighters. The Elgin Area Chamber of Commerce has launched a website dedicated to local efforts marking the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. Elgin Community College student Maria Niño has been named the 2026 Paul Simon Adult Learner of the Year by the Illinois Adult and Continuing Education Association.