Good morning, Aurora.

A local naturalist explains that coyotes help control small animal populations in urban and suburban areas and advises residents to secure pets and avoid feeding them — particularly during dusk to early morning when these animals are most active.

The Illinois Department of Labor said the state minimum wage will stay at $15 an hour for workers 18 and older in 2026 while different rates apply for tipped and under-18 workers and Chicago sets wages based on the Consumer Price Index.

Thousands of cases of salad dressings including Hidden Valley Ranch were recalled by Ventura Foods after an FDA review found foreign objects (black plastic planting material) in the products.

Recalled items were sold in Illinois at multiple retailers including Costco.

Dennis O'Brien's Christmas Show

7:30-9:00 p.m. — The Venue — $25-$30 — Experience a high-spirited musical celebration with classic covers and holiday tunes to kick off the season.

The Polar Express Movie Screening

10 a.m. — Paramount Theatre — $1 at the door — Experience a magical journey to the North Pole with a heartwarming holiday classic.

Million Dollar Quartet

7 p.m. — Paramount Theatre — Tickets available — Experience the legendary jam session featuring Elvis, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Carl Perkins.

Million Dollar Quartet

1-2 p.m. — Paramount Theatre — Various prices — Experience the excitement of the legendary jam session featuring Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Carl Perkins.

New Year’s Eve Celebration with Montez de Durango

7-10 p.m. — La Sierra de Aurora — Ticket prices vary — Enjoy festive Mexican regional tunes from the popular Banda Dorado Show to ring in the New Year.

Hot Lagarto Concert

7-9 p.m. — Artists' Collective of Aurora — No alcohol, outside food welcome — Experience an eclectic mix of Afro-Cuban, Funk, and World music in a cozy space.