Saturday Night at the Movies, Episode III, Last Chance

The last two movie nights were great. Cool weather, no bugs and a movie from the days when special effects didn't overshadow key elements of movie making such as acting, directing and writing. Join the crowd on the south lawn of the Hemmens Cultural Center on Saturday, August 20th. The City of Elgin and the Cultural Arts Commission is presenting the 1938 classic, "The Adventures of Robin Hood", staring Errol Flynn, Olivia de Havilland and Basil Rathbone. View the trailer or learn more from the Errol Flynn website. The movie starts at 8 pm. So bring a chair or a blanket and enjoy a free movie by the riverfront. DNA will be selling popcorn and other goodies

Blogging Seminar

A seminar on blogging was held at the Gail Borden Public Library on August 11th. The presenters were: Steve Munson (Downtown Elgin), Rick Sopha (The Elginite) and Mike Kemmler (CMLNow, FCCMission). Sixteen people came out to learn about blogging. We created a blog during the presentation and demonstrated mobile blogging by taking a photo of the audience and posting it using a camera phone. The presentation materials are available at the Downtown Tech blog.

New Technology Blog

A new technology blog, called Downtown Tech, has entered the blogosphere. It's purpose is to share technology tips for downtown organizations and other non-profits.

Project Management Team to Return?

The Project Management Team (PMT), which last met in 2003, may be coming back. The topic will be discussed at tonight's city council meeting. Read the article in the Wednesday Daily Herald.

Another change proposed to revive the team includes selecting two downtown
developers instead of two downtown businesses. That’s because the Downtown
Neighborhood Association represents downtown businesses and can adequately serve as their voice, city economic development director Ray Moller said.

“Developers are making huge investments here and what’s happening in
the center city impacts them,” Moller said. “And they have conversations with
the people who are coming here to buy.”

Downtown Elgin Resident to Host "Design on a Dime"

Downtown resident, Brice Cooper, will host 26 HGTV "Design on a Dime" shows. They will all be shot in the Chicago area. Here is the application if you would like to have a room made over. Read Christine Byers' front page story from Tuesday's Daily Herald.

Trivia, Brice was the creator of the "Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer" Window Wonderland display. The Window Wonderland theme was Songs of the Season. He also created a unique home holiday display with Santa climbing in a window.

It's Happening Downtown, the Week of August 8th

Tuesday, August 9th
What: Design Committee Meeting
Time: 12 to 1 pm
Where: Meet at the DNA office, 2 Douglas.

Thursday, August 11th
What: Economic Restructuring Committee Meeting
Time: 8 am
Where: Meet at the DNA office, 2 Douglas.

What: Brown Bag Lunch on Elgin's Music Teachers
David Brown will present a Brown Bag Lunch program on music teachers of Elgin. $3 admission, members free. Bring your lunch to eat during the program. Dessert and beverages supplied.
Time: 12 to 1 pm
Where: Elgin Area Historical Society and Museum at 360 Park St.

What: Harvest Market
Time: 12 to 6 pm
Where: Civic Center parking lot at the corner of Highland and Grove

Saturday, August 13th
What: Puerto Rican Day Parade and Festival
Time: 12 pm
Where: Line-up is at 355 E. Chicago Street, parking lot of the U46 Admininistration building, at the corner of Gifford and East Chicago Street. Geneva, Division, and Douglas will be the main Parade routes. This event is organized by the Elgin Puerto Rican Parade Committee. For more information contact Nancy Acevedo.

What: Elgin Skyline Walking Tour
Meet at the city parking lot at the corner of Highland and Douglas. Tour lasts about an hour and a half. Join Mary Hill, Elgin Historian, and experience downtown Elgin from the bottom up and top down. See places you've never seen before. Enjoy Elgin's #1 best kept secret. Wear comfortable shoes! $5 per person, free for Elgin Historical Society members and children under 10.
Time: 1 pm
Where: Meet at the corner of Highland and Douglas.

Street Closing

Symphony Way will be closed from Grove Avenue east to the entrance of the city's parking deck as the water department replaces a fire hydrant beginning at 10 p.m. Sunday.
Crews will be working through the night and expect to be done by 7 a.m. Monday.
The road closure will not affect parking in the deck. Water will be shut off in the area, but service is expected to be restored before residents and guests return to the area.
For more information, contact Sue Olafson, Elgin's public information officer, at (847) 931-5601.
This information appeared in the News Digest section of the Saturday Courier News.

Four Parking Spots Added on Spring St.

Four new parking spots were added on the west side of Spring St. between Division and Highland. I spotted them on Saturday.

The Fine Arts and Bicycle Racing

This weekend brings us two events to broaden our horizons. First, on Saturday and Sunday, August 6th and 7th, the Elgin Fine Arts Festival returns to downtown in the Civic Center Plaza. This is the fourteenth year of the festival. Come downtown to gaze upon a variety of art forms, purchase your favorite piece and listen to some music while having lunch. The hours are 10 to 6 on Saturday and 11 to 4 on Sunday.

Second, on Sunday, August 7th, bicycle racing returns to Elgin. The Elgin Cycling Classic will loop through the downtown streets from early morning until evening. The criterium course is approximately one kilometer. Start is at E. Chicago and Spring; go north one block to Highland; left on Highland two blocks to Grove; left on Grove for three blocks; sharp left turn onto Spring for two blocks to the finish; repeat course. Read the Courier News article.

The schedule is as follows:
8 a.m. - Men's Citizen/Cat 5
Distance: 30 minutes plus four laps
Entry fee: $25
Prize: More than $500

9 a.m. - Master Men's 40 and older
Distance: 30 minutes plus four laps
Entry fee: $25
Prize: More than $1,000

10 a.m. - Master Men's 50 and older
Distance: 30 minutes plus four laps
Entry fee: $25
Prize: More than $500

11 a.m. - Men's Cat 4
Distance: 40 minutes plus four laps
Entry fee: $25
Prize: More than $750

Noon - Children's races
Race groups:
5- to 6-year-olds; 7- to 8-year-olds; 9- to 10-year-olds; and 11- to 12-year-olds
Entry fee: No charge
Prize: Ribbons for participants and trophies for the winners

1 p.m. - Handcycling race
Distance: 30 minutes plus four laps
Entry fee: $25
Prize: To be decided

2 p.m. - Women's Open
Distance: 40 minutes plus four laps
Entry fee: $25
Prize: More than $1,000

3 p.m. - Men's Cat 3
Distance: 40 minutes plus four laps
Entry fee: $25
Prize: More than $2,025

4 p.m.- Men's Pro/Am
Distance: 60 minutes plus four laps
Entry fee: $40
Prize: More than $5,000

New Police Chief Sworn In

Our new Chief of Police, Lisa Womack, was sworn in today. A large crowd of police, city staff and media witnessed the brief ceremony. City manager, Femi Folarin, Mayor Schock and intermin Chief Robert Beeter spoke and city clerk, Loni Mecum, performed the swearing in. Femi kept the process moving. He said he wanted the chief to get to work.

Womack was selected from 50 applicants from across the country. Recently, she served as police chief of Sugar Land, Texas, a fast growing city outside of Houston, with a population of nearly 71,000.

Chief Womack and family, we welcome yaw'll to our city.

Historic Street Light Program Expanded

"Now"

The City of Elgin is adding historic street lights to the following streets:

Symphony Way from Douglas Ave to Dundee Ave
Douglas Ave from Symphony Way to Dexter
Spring Street from Kimball Street to Dexter
Center St from Kimball Blvd to Dundee Ave
There will also be two lights on College St.

Construction began July 20th.


"Later"

El Faro to be Featured on Elgin Today

El Faro Restaurant at 9 N. State St. will be featured on the Elgin Today television program. The show times are:

Tuesday, August 2nd at 7 pm
Saturday, August 6th at 10 am
Tuesday, August 9th at 7 pm
Saturday, August 13th at 10 am

The program is broadcast on Channel 17 on Comcast & Wide Open West.

Downtown Condos

There was an article on the downtown condo craze in Sunday's Daily Herald.

The downtown condo market is just hitting its stride, driven by Baby Boomers looking to downsize and young professionals looking for their first purchases, said Christine Kutt Zolt, marketing and sales director for Norwood Builders.

Imagine the market as a bell curve — on the far left are the pioneers who bought into the first suburban downtown condos 10 years ago, Kutt Zolt said. On the top of the curve is critical mass, where the condo is a generally accepted product.

“I really believe it’s just coming to critical mass” and will last another 10 to 15 years, Kutt Zolt said. “People don’t even think it’s unusual, and it’s where the market becomes very prime.”

It's Happening Downtown, the Week of August 1st

Monday, August 1st
What: Swearing in of new police chief, Lisa Womack.
Time: 8:30 am
Where: Elgin Police Station, 151 Douglas

Tuesday, August 2nd
What: Design Committee Neighborhood Walk
Time: 12 to 1 pm
Where: Meet at the DNA office, 2 Douglas. The area to be covered is bounded by Grove, Highland, Douglas and Chicago.

Thursday, August 4th
What: Harvest Market
Time: 12 to 6 pm
Where: Civic Center parking lot at the corner of Highland and Grove

Saturday, August 6th
What: Fine Arts Fest
Time: 10 am to 6 pm
Where: Civic Center Plaza, behind city hall

What: Carbo Load Ride
A leasure bike ride along the race route for the whole family. Free
Time: 6 pm
Where: Cafe Magdalena, 13 Douglas

What: Carbo Load Dinner
A pre-bike race dinner for the whole family. $15 for adults, $10 for children 10 & under
All you can eat pasta, salad and bread. Contact DNA for information and tickets, (847)488-1456
Time: 7 pm
Where: Cafe Magdalena, 13 Douglas

Sunday, August 7th
What: Elgin Cycling Classic, Daily Herald article (Registation required).
Time: 7:45 am to 5:00 pm
Where: Downtown Elgin, Spring to Highland to Grove

What: Fine Arts Fest
Time: 11 am to 4 pm
Where: Civic Center Plaza, behind city hall

4th of July Parade Float Contest Winners

Patriotic
1. United Brothers of Carpenters and Joiners, Local 363
2. Sherman Hospital

Community Spirit
1. EFS Bank
2. ABODE

Creative
1. Elgin Theatre Co.
2. Elgin Church of the Nazarene

The Downtown Neighborhood Association and the City of Elgin extend a thank you to all the sponsors, participants, volunteers and spectators.

Ducklings Rescued by Local Shop Owner

Jonathan Winkle, owner of the Bleu Delph Flower Shop on North Grove, contacted animal control Tuesday after hearing quacking coming from a planter. Elgin Animal Control Officer, James Rog escorted the mother duck and three ducklings across East Chicago Street to the Fox River. A photo and caption were in Tuesday's Wednesday's Courier News. These urban ducks enjoy downtown as much as us humans. Fred and Judy Steffen have had a duck nesting on their rooftop deck for a couple of years.

4th of July Parade Float Contest Winners to be Announced at Council Meeting

Awards will be presented to the winners of the float contest along with recognition of the volunteers and sponsors at the City Council meeting on Wednesday, July 27th at 7pm. The meeting is being held at the Heritage Ballroom in The Centre.

Thousands of Elgin residents lined up along beautiful Douglas Avenue to enjoy Elgin’s annual 4th of July Parade. More than 125 groups participated. The Downtown Neighborhood Association and the City of Elgin extend a thank you to all the sponsors, participants, volunteers and spectators.

Walton Islands

The Walton Island improvements were covered by Gloria Carr in the Courier News on Monday. Read the article

The Elginite blog had a comment.

"It's unfortunate that there's a huge piece of kitsch shaped as a frozen American flag marring the landscape of Walton Islands. What's the point? If they wanted a flag on the island, why didn't they put up a real flag? It would have looked 100x better than the current monstrosity."

What do you think?
How does the new flag compare to the original painted flag?

Design Committee Neighborhood Walk for July 26th

The DNA Design Committee is conducting neighborhood walks every Tuesday from 12 to 1 pm. Meet at the DNA office, 2 Douglas, before 12 noon. The purpose of the walk is to note any areas that require attention. The list will be forwarded to the city and reviewed by the committee.

The walk for Tuesday, July 26th will cover the block bordered by Highland, Douglas, Division and Spring. The walks will continue until the entire downtown is covered.

Link to map of walk areas.

Call (847)488-1456 or email for more information.

Downtown Elgin Summer Carnival

Photo by Kirk Lawler

Get ready for some fun in Downtown Elgin!! Starting on July 28th the Carnival will be in town at the old library parking lot, right off of Kimball and Grove. There will be rides, games, booths, entertainment, music, food and more!!! The times of operation are as follows:

Thursday July 28th - 5pm-10pm
Friday July 29th - 1pm-11pm
Saturday July 30th - 1pm-11pm
Sunday July 31st - 1pm-10pm

Unlimited ride specials are available on the following days and times:

Thursday July 28th - 5pm-9pm
Friday July 29th - 1pm-5pm
Saturday July 30th - 1pm-5pm
Sunday July 31st - 1pm-5pm



For more information contact DNA at (847) 488-1456.

July Out to Lunch

Come join your Downtown Elgin neighbors for food and conversation this Monday, July 25th at noon at Prairie Rock Brewing Co. , 127 S. Grove Ave. APPETIZERS and non-alcoholic DRINKS are included. The sandwich choices are Prime Rib, Club, Salmon, and Pulled Chicken. These include a choice of one side (rice, mixed fruit, french fries, coleslaw or mashed potatoes). The cost is $11.50 Please give DNA a call at (847) 488-1456 to make your reservation.

Ina Dews in the News

Our Harvest Market manager and long time community volunteer Ina Dews is profiled today in a Daily Herald story (read the article).

"Ina says she is just as eclectic as the quilts she stitches together."

How many of you knew she had time to quilt?

Saturday Night at the Movies, Episode II

The first movie night last month was great. Cool weather, no bugs and a movie from the days when special effects didn't overshadow key elements of movie making such as acting, directing and writing. Join the crowd on the south lawn of the Hemmens Cultural Center on Saturday, July 30th. The City of Elgin and the Cultural Arts Commission is presenting the 1959 classic, "North by Northwest", staring Cary Grant and directed by Alfred Hitchcock. View the trailer. The movie starts at 8 pm. So bring a chair or a blanket and enjoy a free movie by the riverfront. DNA will be selling popcorn and other goodies

Downtown Parking Lot Closures Update 7/20/05

With the demolition of the Crocker Theatre at 96 South Grove Avenue now complete, soil remediation of the site is scheduled to begin on Monday, July 25. Parking in the adjoining parking lot will continue to be available, however on a more limited basis. An additional 12 spaces will be removed to accommodate the soil remediation process. Previously, it was anticipated that the entire lot would be closed as of mid-July, but it was possible to make adjustments to preserve approximately 48 parking spots until construction begins on the River Park Place Condominiums later in the season.

Prior to demolition of the building, the northernmost section of the city-owned parking lot south of the building was closed to the public beginning May 30th. At that time, approximately 12 spaces facing the wall of the Crocker building were removed and it was announced that the remaining approximately 60 spaces would close in Mid July. While the public can continue to park in the remaining lot area during this time, please be advised that considerable dust and dirt may be encountered. Vehicle owners will park at their own risk. Other parking alternatives are available, including angled parking spaces recently created along South Grove Street and Prairie Street or in other off-street lots throughout the Center City area. City of Elgin monthly parking permits will be honored at these alternative sites.

Effective May 4, the city parking lot on Prairie Street, across the street from the Prairie Rock Brewery, was permanently closed to the public and construction of Phase II of River Park Place Townhomes is underway. A new City-owned parking deck is currently under construction on Fulton Street, between Spring and Villa, which will accommodate over 550 parking spaces. Construction is on schedule and is expected to be completed in November 2005.

We appreciate your patience and apologize for any inconvenience this may cause. For additional information and a map of all downtown city-owned parking facilities please check the City of Elgin website at www.cityofelgin.org or call RuthAnne Hall, at 847-931-6104.

This update was provided via the Downtown Development Update feature on the City of Elgin web site. To stay informed on the latest developments, go to the link on the City of Elgin web site and sign up. You can also be notified about Hemmens events, Parks and Rec information, bid postings and job postings.

Dinosaur sighted in Elgin

The first dinosaur from Dinos on Parade has been sighted in front of Elgin's city hall. Titled "Leonardo", it is sponsored by Provena St. Joseph Hospital and created by artist David Powers.

Dinos on Parade is promoting the Gail Borden Library GIANTS: African Dinosaurs exhibit. The exhibit runs September through December 2005. The Dinos on Parade will be located throughout the library district.

Please add a comment with other sightings and include the location.

New Mural in the Hemmens Courtyard

View from Civic Center Plaza

From the Daily Herald.
"Under the direction of David Powers, students Maria Sierra, Natalie Doolittle and Christen Leitza painted a 32- by 10-foot mural along the Hemmens’ lower courtyard."

"The city’s cultural arts commission, along with local businesses, paid for the $13,000 project titled “Fei Fei’s Dream.” Powers derived the inspiration for the mural from a Chinese playwright who asked him to put her in the mural."

“It was my imagining of how a girl now teaching English in the provinces of China would imagine a parade in Elgin.”
Read the article.



I'll get a shot without the shadow soon. Maybe The Elginite will have a better pic.
UPDATE: The Elginite came through with the shot.
Read The Elginite post on the mural.

Design Committee Neighborhood Walks

The DNA Design Committee is conducting neighborhood walks every Tuesday from 12 to 1 pm. Meet at the DNA office, 2 Douglas, before 12 noon. The purpose of the walk is to note any areas that require attention. The list will be forwarded to the city and reviewed by the committee.

The first walk will be on Tuesday, July 19th and will cover State St. and Grove, between Highland and Chicago, if time permits. The walks will continue until the entire downtown is covered.
Call (847)488-1456 or email for more information.

Congressman J. Dennis Hastert 2005 Mobile Office in Downtown Elgin

Speaker Hastert's mobile office will be in downtown Elgin on July 20th.
His staff will be in the lobby of City Hall. They will offer residents an opportunity to ask questions and provide them with opinions on issues.

Date: Wednesday, July 20th, 2005
Address: 150 Dexter Court Elgin , IL 60120
Hours: 9:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m.
Contact: 630-406-1114

New Elgin Blog with Several Downtown Posts

I found a link to The Elginite on the Elgin Wiki. Several downtown posts are listed below:

Fountain Square layouts
Spiess building update
New concert hall
Harvest Market

The site has a clean design and excellent photos, especially the header photo of Douglas Ave facades.

Watch the Elgin 4th of July Parade on Cable

The Elgin 4th of July Parade can be seen on cable channel 17 on Comcast or Wide Open West. The dates and show times are listed below:
Sunday, July 10, at 7 pm
Monday, July 11, at 12 pm
Wednesday, July 13, at 12 pm and 7 pm
Saturday, July 16, at 5 pm
Sunday, July 17, at 7 pm

R.R. Donnelly expands downtown Elgin facility

R.R. Donnelly is growing. An article in the Courier News states that the photography studios have doubled in size.

New use for Crocker Facade?

An article in the Daily Herald indicates that a porition of the Crocker facade may be used as the screening wall for the River Park Place condo parking lot.

A beautiful night downtown

I'm sitting on the Hemmens lawn watching a movie with 50 others on a summer night. There is a cool breeze, popcorn and laughter. Best of all it's free. If you missed this one, you have two more chances July 30th and August 20th at 8 pm.

Egret spotted at dam today

I spotted an egret standing at the base of the Kimball St. Dam around 2:40 today.

June Out to Lunch at Al's Cafe

The June Out to Lunch is Monday, June 27th at 12 pm at Al's Cafe & Creamery. Choose from three items, Grilled Chicken Salad, Hot Turkey Swiss or a Egg Salad sandwich. Your beverage is on Al's. RSVP to DNA by June 24th (847)488-1456.

Remember Outdoor Theaters?

Well you won't be able to drive right up to this one. You'll have to park your car and walk over to the south lawn of the Hemmens Cultural Center on Saturday, June 25th. The Cultural Arts Commission is presenting "Around the World in 80 Days", the 1955 classic. The movie starts at 8 pm. Bring the whole family for a free movie by the riverfront. DNA will be selling pop corn and other goodies

Downtown Development Updates by Email

Want to find out what's happening with the downtown developments? Go to the link on the City of Elgin web site and sign up. You can also be notified about Hemmens events, Parks and Rec information, bid postings and job postings.

New Twist for the May Out to Lunch

When:
Please join us for Out to Lunch on Monday, May 23rd at 12 Noon.
Where:
It will take place at the DNA office at 2 Douglas and will feature Downtown's own tasty Quiznos Subs and City Manager Femi Folarin.
Why:
It is an excellent opportunity to view the the Judson College City Center Visions display. This project has to be seen to be appreciated and it ends May 31st.
What:
Your box lunch includes chips, cookie, a canned drink, and of course a 6'' sub - your choice of Ham & Swiss, Turkey Lite, or Mesquite Chicken with Bacon - for $6.75.
You must RSVP to DNA with the sub of your choice if you are planning to attend this event (No shows will be billed). Call (847)488-1456 to reserve your lunch.

Monday's are the slowest day of the week for most restaurants so traditionaly we have Out to Lunch on the last Monday of the month. Since the last Monday this month is Memorial Day the date has been changed.

in progress: An Art Exhibit at Simple Balance

When: May 27th - June 3rd
Opening reception May 27th 7 - 9 pm
Where:
Simple Balance Holistic Center
221 E. Chicago St.
Elgin, IL 60120
847.468.6019 or Nadine Mitchell 773.450.2798
Who: Seven artists in transition

Elgin Jaycees Poker Run

When: Saturday, May 21st at 6:30 pm
What: Elgin Jaycees Poker Run
50/50 Raffle, door prizes, $10 per hand
Where: Downtown Elgin
6:30 – 7:15 pm The Fox Hole Bar
7:15 – 8:00 pm Café Magdalena's
8:00 – 8:45 pm Prairie Rock
8:45 – 9:00 pm The Mission Nightclub
9:00pm The Martini Room
Last card drawn at 10:00 pm

For more information, please call 224-629-7458

Grand Opening of Elgin Windmill Factory Antiques

What: Grand Opening of Elgin Windmill Factory Antiques
Cookout, picnic, prizes, gifts, live bluegrass and folk music and more
When: Saturday, May 21st at 12 pm
Where: 80 N. State St. (Route 31) Elgin, IL

See previous post for more information.

Free Leadership Seminar

Who:
All grass-roots leaders, Volunteers with local neighborhood associations, church groups and other civic nonprofits
What:
Led by veteran community leaders Dan Fox and Don Waters, the seminar is designed to help local volunteers more effectively contribute to their organizations.
Where:
The community room of State Financial Bank, 2001 Larkin Ave. in Elgin.
When:
Saturday, June 4th from 8 a.m. to noon
How:
The Elgin Community Network is sponsoring the June 4 training. It includes a complimentary continental breakfast. To register, call Neighborhood Housing Services of Elgin at (847) 695-0399.

Crystal Street Beautification Project

I spotted members of the Near West Neighbors working on the railroad bank at Crystal and Chicago. They have transformed a once overgrown and neglected area into a view to enjoy. This has been a key project in the neighborhood for many years. In 1999, I worked removing debris and clearing brush with ROPE officer Rob Hartman. It was a Leadership Academy community service project. There is more to come for this site as the group has plans for other improvements. It's amazing what a difference a small group of dedicated individuals can make in a neighborhood.

Elgin Fire Station 6 Dedication

The new fire station at 707 W Chicago was dedicated on May 14th at 10:30 am.


A large crowd both young and more seasoned was onhand to welcome the firefighters to the neighborhood. Mayor Schock acknowledged the efforts of the neighborhood to bring the station to Chicago Street.

Police Officer Memorial Service

The Elgin Police Department is hosting the Annual Police Officer Memorial Service Monday, May 16th at 2:30 pm. It will be held in front of the police station at 151 Douglas Ave. The service is held annually to pay respect to officers who were killed in the line of duty locally and across the country as well as those members who have passed away during the past year.

The week of May 15th through May 21st is National Police Week.

Memorial Day Activities

Don't forget to honor those who have given their lives for our freedom. The true purpose of Memorial Day.

Elgin Marine Corp League and Northern Kane County Viet NOW Floral Tribute
Time: 9:45 a.m.
Location: Highland Avenue Bridge

Or later on attend the ceremony at Bluff City Cemetery. Get there early, the event is well attended.
Elgin Patriotic Memorial Association Program
Time: 11:00 a.m.
Location: Bluff City Cemetery

No need to cook, breakfast and lunch can be had at the:
Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast
Enjoy all-you-can-eat pancakes!
Time: 8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m.
Location: Hemmens Cultural Center, Lower Level
Cost: $5 per person, tickets will be available on Memorial day

Outdoor Exhibition Group's 5th Annual Rib Fest
Enjoy food, drinks, music and children's activities. Event is free to the public. To enter the competition or for more information, call Milt Evans at 847-742-8736.
Time: 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Location: Walton Island


Feel competitive?
Try the 28th Annual Elgin Valley Fox Trot
5K Race, 10 Mile Race and Family Fun Walk and Corporate Challenge. Race starts at 8:00 a.m. sharp in front of City Hall. Join the Downtown Neighborhood Association group in the Corporate Challenge by calling (847) 488-1456.

Tried of watching NASCAR racers going in circles all day. Try the straight away style of the Elgin Classic Soap Box Derby and cheer the kids on to victory. Begins at 11:00 a.m. on Kimball Street at Douglas Avenue

Check the City of Elgin web site for more information.

Longer Hours at Downtown Quiznos

Downtown Quiznos announces extended hours starting Monday May 16th.

Monday - Friday
9:30 am to 7:30 pm
Saturday
9:30 am to 3:00 pm

Stop in for a bite and take in the tin ceiling and stone columns in the beautifully restored McBride Building.
Located at: 59 Douglas Elgin, IL

Parking Lot Closures

The City has permanently closed the parking lot on Prairie Street, across from the Prairie Rock Brewery. It will also close the parking lot south of the Crocker Theatre.
The City’s parking lot on Prairie Street, across from the Prairie Rock Brewery, will be permanently closed effective May 4, as the City begins construction on the River Park Place Townhomes.
The City’s parking lot south of the Crocker Theatre building also will be closed to the public beginning May 30th as the City prepares for the demolition of the Crocker building.
Employees and clients who currently park in these lots can park in the angled parking spaces recently created along South Grove Street and Prairie Street or in other off-street lots throughout the Center City area. The City of Elgin monthly parking permits will be honored at these alternative sites. The city will monitor the parking situation on a daily basis and work with the Downtown Neighborhood Association to make modifications as warranted.
City employees are encouraged to park in alternate city owned public lots to help free on-street parking for visitors, clients and customers.
“Center City is undergoing a facelift,” said David Lawry, general services group director. “Parking will be inconvenient but the end result will be beneficial to the entire City of Elgin.”
For additional information contact Lawry at 847-931-5961.

Local Writer Receives Peter Lisagor Award for Exemplary Journalism

George Houde received a Peter Lisagor Award for Exemplary Journalism in the Commentary category. It was for a WBEZ story titled "Pulling the Trigger". George has an office in downtown Elgin and once owned The Daily Bean coffee shop.

The Chicago Headline Club's 28th annual awards to Chicago area journalists took place April 29 at the Westin Chicago River North hotel. The competition's categories ranged from in-depth reporting and public service to business, commentary and feature reporting.

The awards are named for Peter Lisagor, late Washington bureau chief of the Chicago Daily News. Reporters and editors from SPJ chapters in five cities reviewed nearly 900 entries published or broadcast in 2004. Plaques were presented for 61 reports, chosen for such attributes as enterprise, accuracy, scope, style and impact.

April "Word on the Street" Newsletter

The April Illinois Main Street newsletter is available.

Carnival Time

Downtown Elgin Carnival

Photo by Kirk Lawler

Location: Civic Center Parking Lot
Highland and Douglas

Thursday, May 5th 5 to 9 pm
Friday, May 6th 1 to 11 pm
Saturday, May 7th 1 to 11 pm
Sunday, May 8th 1 to 8 pm

Unlimited ride special
$15 per person, per day
Thursday 5 to 9 pm
Saturday 1 to 5 pm
Sunday 1 to 5 pm

Street Repairs

Nicor Gas will be permanently patching the streets where new gas lines were run this spring. Work is currently taking place on Spring and DuPage Streets. All streets that were dug up will have the permanent surface completed by Friday.

Developer Selected

Ryan Companies was selected as the developer for the old library site. See the details in the Courier article and the Daily Herald

Dinos on Parade

Remember the cows on parade in Chicago? Elgin is planning to have it's own version using dinosaurs. The purpose is to promote the dinosaur exhibit coming to the library this fall. See the Courier article or Daily Herald article for details. Don't forget the meeting at the library on Monday, May 2nd at 4 pm. We will be discussing how businesses and the library can work together to provide visitors to the exhibit with information on the Elgin area.

Developer Presentations for Library Site

UPDATE: The Hummel Group, one of the two developers competing for the right to develop the old library site has dropped out of the race. This was according to Mayor Schock late Tuesday.

The two developers developer for the old library site will be presenting their plans to the city council on Wednesday, April 27th at 4:30 p.m. The presentation will take place during the Committee of the Whole meeting in the council chambers at city hall. The projects range between $52 and $53 million dollars, 137 to 150 residential units and the tallest buildings are seven stories in one project and ten stories in the other. The project is $53 million with150 residential units and the tallest section is ten stories high. Please attend if you are interested in hearing the details on this project. More information can be found in newspaper articles from the Sunday Daily Herald and Monday's Courier. It is possible that the developer will be selected on Wednesday.

Preservation Week Schedule

April 30 – May 9, 2005
Preservation Brochure

April 22 through May 31, 2005 “Documenting the Elgin Architectural Renaissance”-Photography by Kirk Lawler
Downtown Neighborhood Association volunteer photographer, Kirk Lawler, presents a unique collection of images celebrating the architectural revival of downtown Elgin. From the smaller details to whole buildings. The exhibit will offer viewers a fresh interpretation of Elgin’s many restored treasures.Location: Elgin City Hall Lobby between 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.



April 30 through May 31, 2005 “Center City Visions” An Exhibit by the
4th Year Comprehensive Design Studio Students at Judson College.
An exhibit that explores what the students have developed as class projects for specific downtown locations.

Location:
Downtown Neighborhood Association
2 Douglas Ave
Elgin, IL

Open during DNA office hours M - F from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Form more information contact the DNA at (847) 488-1456.

May 2 "Skyline Tour of Downtown Elgin"
Join Mary Hill, Elgin Historian, on an experience of downtown Elgin from the bottom up and the top down. See places you’ve never seen before. Enjoy Elgin’s #1 best kept secret. This is a walking tour, so wear comfortable shoes. Sponsored by: Elgin Area Historical Society
For information call Elizabeth Marston at (847) 742-4248.
Location: Meet at the City parking lot at Douglas and Highland Avenue.
Time: 6:30pm. to 8:00pm.

May 2 through May 7, 2005 "Downtown Elgin Architectural Treasure Hunt"
Learn and win! Fun for the whole family. Discover the great architectural details in downtown Elgin through an adventurous treasure hunt. Pick up your entry form anytime on Tuesday May 2 through
Saturday May 7, from any participating restaurant or business or come to the Elgin Carnival information booth at the Civic Parking Lot on Thursday and Friday after 5:00 p.m. and Saturday after 1:00 p.m. kids who turn in a completed entry form will receive instant prizes and adults will be entered into a drawing for chances to win great downtown prizes.
For more information contact DNA at (847) 488-1456.

May 5 "Mayor’s Awards for Preservation"
The Elgin Heritage Commission honors outstanding contributors to Elgin’s heritage. Honorees have demonstrated their dedication to older architecture, neighborhoods and history. R.S.V.P. by April 29th at 847-931-5910.
Sponsored by the Elgin Heritage Commission.
Location: The Centre of Elgin Heritage Ballroom
Time: 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m.
For information call Sarosh Saher at (847) 931-5943

April Out to Lunch at Jalapenos

Join us for the monthly Out to Lunch event

Date: Monday, April 25th
Time: 12 pm
Where: Jalapenos Restaurant
7 Clock Tower Plaza
Elgin, IL

The menu will be an all you can eat Buffet Lunch.

Main Street Day Part 2

Main Streeters from all over the state gathered on the capitol steps for a group photo. Where's Max?

Listening to the press conference in the rotunda.

The Gieske family happened to be in Springfield and stopped by to visit. You can’t hide, Elginites are everywhere.

Is this a future lawmaker? He has all the tools.

Elgin - It's Happening Here!

See Dr. Jaena Gonzaga from Simple Balance Holistic Wellness Center in the latest It's Happening Here! ad. It appeared in the Sunday Daily Herald on April 17th. Pat and David Segel were in an ad several weeks ago, bb, before blog. See it here. These ads are part of a new It's Happening Here! campaign which features Elginites and their stories. You can see all the ads and fill out a survey at their new web site www.elginitshappeninghere.com.

New Antique Store on State Street

Will Alexander and Rich Oleson are opening Elgin Windmill Factory Antiques in the Able Furniture store at 80 N. State. See the Daily Herald article for more information.

Elks Lodge Transforms

Demi & Cooper Advertising plans to move into the renovated Elks Lodge on April 29th. The English Tudor style building at 18 S. Villa St. has gone through extensive interior renovation. Read the Daily Herald article.

Main Street Day 2005 Report

Elgin was well represented by Joe and Armida Dominguez along with RuthAnne Hall and Steve Munson (taking picture). Our booth attracted a lot of attention thanks to the generous donations of pastries from Pastigel Bakery and award winning salsa from Akina’s Thai Restaurant, it also made for a good lunch as there wasn’t any time to eat with the busy schedule.

Mike Jackson, from the Illinois Historic Preservation Agency (not the other Mike Jackson), stopped by for conversation and eats.

Lt. Governor Pat Quinn sampled the salsa and visited. He commented on the great Main Street State Conference held in Elgin in 2003 and had time for a photo op.


The man in the hat next to the Lt. Gov is Max, the new symbol of Illinois Main Street. You’ll be seeing him in promotions, a new web site and maybe visiting a town near you. Six legislators from across the state joined the press conference in the rotunda. That is up from last year.
More photos and stories later, I have to go for now.

Learn How Dinosaurs Can Help Your Business

Date: Monday, May 2nd
Time: 4:00 p.m.
Location:
Gail Borden Public Library
270 N. Grove Ave
Elgin, IL 60120

Come learn how the Dinosaur Exhibit coming in Fall 2005 can impact your business. RSVP to Denise Raleigh at draleigh@nsls.info or (847) 429-5981.

The exhibit is Project Exploration’s GIANTS: African Dinosaurs. When parts of this exhibit were at Navy Pier in 2000, it experienced 600,000 visitors during a normally slow time from January to March, with 60% of visitors citing the exhibit for their reason for attending. The Sue dinosaur exhibit that just closed at Aurora's Sci-Tech Museum almost doubled their normal attendance. The Gail Borden Library has approximately 2,000 visitors per day when there isn’t a special exhibit.

The Grand Victoria Foundation provided a substantial gift to make this happen. Let’s take advantage of this unique opportunity to show visitors to Elgin that It’s Happening Here!

Spring Into Health

April 4 - May 13, 2005

The YWCA in conjunction with Simple Balance Holistic Center has created the YWCA Health Challenge. This program offers you the the opportunity to experience a variety of health and fitness classes. For a $5 fee you receive a fitness evalution, health information packet, 6 weeks of daily exercise and health related activities and personal support.
For more information call Mary Rees Freeman at YWCA Elgin 847.742.7930 or Simple Balance Holistic Center at 847.468.6012
Link to a Calendar of the activities during the month of April and May.

Main Street Day in Springfield

April 14th is Main Street Day in Springfield

The Downtown Neighborhood Association will represent Elgin at the second annual Main Street Day in Springfield. It is a great opportunity to share the fact that It’s Happening Here with the rest of the state. We will have a display in the capitol along with the other Illinois Main Street communities. The event takes place on April 14th in the state capitol. Pass the word to your friends and colleagues to stop by the booth if they’re downstate on the 14th.

Elgin Main Street Event – Downtown Development

Elgin Main Street Event – Downtown Development
Date: Tuesday, April 19th
Time: 6:30 p.m.
Location:
Fountain Square on the River Sales Center
51 S. Grove (J.C. Penney Building)
Elgin, IL 60120

Come learn about the revitalization of Elgin's Downtown Neighborhood and the plans to accommodate the change. City staff will be on hand to discuss the current and future development projects and their impact on the neighborhood. For more information please contact the Downtown Neighborhood Association at 847-488-1456.

UPDATE: Story in Daily Herald.

Bookstore Coffee Shop Coming Downtown

Rachel’s Books & Café is relocating to the former EFS bank site at Spring and Chicago streets. They will be moving from their Schaumburg location to Elgin in July. Read more about the shop in the Daily Herald article. Last year's downtown survey rated a bookstore high on the retail wish list.

Retail Center at Kimball and Dundee Begins Construction

The long discussed retail center at Kimball and Dundee has begun to take shape.

First Crane of the Season Spotted

It was a nice day for a walk so I took some photos as I ran my errands.

This will beome a familiar site for several years as the construction cranes dot the downtown Elgin skyline. The first one is at the site of the Fulton Street parking deck. Next up is the Fountain Square development on the NBD site and The River Park Place condo on the Crocker site.

A view from the bend in Riverside Drive towards the River Park Place townhomes. The Phase I Festival Park improvements are shown in the foreground.

I ran into David Vargas at the Rancho Vargas sidewalk sale. We discussed the new developments along South Grove. The staff at Al’s Café was out getting some air and enjoying the sunshine before the lunch crowd came in.

A stop at Simple yeilded an impluse buy and friendly conversation.

I ended the journey at the Centre to take in the Home Expo. Octavio at the DNA info booth.

Two Additions to Illinois Main Street

Main Street Momence and the Downtown Bloomington Association were officially designated as Illinois Main Street Communities. We welcome you to the family. The March edition of the "The Word on the Street" has all the details.

City of Elgin, 2004 Year in Review

The city has published the 2004 Year in Review report. Check out the River as a Resource and Alive Downtown sections.

Cloning extended to cities

The next step in cloning has taken place. Researchers have taken Elgin, Illinois and cloned it in Texas. This link proves it.

Spring Street Closed

Yesterday a garbage truck knocked down a utility pole behind the police station knocking out power in the surrounding area.

Entryway Meeting

Thirty some residents of Elgin, consultants and city staff gathered on Tuesday, March 29th to discuss options for improving our entryways. After intros we viewed videos of the drive from I90 down routes 25 and 31 to Chicago Street. The presenters pointed out areas where improvements could be made. A survey followed with our input on some 25 photos of streetscapes, buildings and medians. We wrapped up by sharing our views in four small groups. The Downtown Neighborhood Association was well represented by Eric Pepa, David Segel, Tom Armstrong, Victor Gonzales, Norma Miess and Steve Munson. The next meeting will present designs based on our input.

Last Chance for Upstairs Downtown Workshop in Rock Island

Just a reminder that the deadline for registering for the UPSTAIRS DOWNTOWN workshop is approaching fast! That's right March 30th is the deadline, less than one week away!! You can print registrations from the link below, they need to be mailed with payment to Renaissance Rock Island.

Remember Rock Island knows how to have a good time! Join us on April 7 and 8 in Rock Island for a 2-day workshop on the adaptive reuse of upper floors in downtown commercial buildings. For more information on UPSTAIRS DOWNTOWN, visit www.Illinois-History.gov.

March Out to Lunch at Akina's

Please join us at our March Out to Lunch as we celebrate Akina’s Thai Restaurant's second anniversary on Monday, March 28th at 12 noon. Akina’s is located at 23 S. Grove Avenue, Downtown Elgin. Enjoy their special lunch buffet for $7.50 (soft drink included). This special will be available until Friday, April 1st.

Denise, We'll Miss You

Denise Momodu has decided to explore new horizons and left her position as DNA’s Coordinator of Operations on March 25th. She will be pursuing a Masters degree at the University of Illinois.

Norma Miess, Executive Director has referred to Denise as her “Right Hand” for all her dedication and loyalty to DNA since she came aboard in the summer of 2002. Her sincere caring and valuable support has also earned the appreciation of many volunteers and businesses throughout Downtown.

We hope we can continue to see her enthusiasm and support as she is offering to volunteer for DNA’s Carnivals and other events. But she will definitely be missed as a part of the DNA staff. We thank Denise for her hard work and wish her all the best the future has to offer!

Please read the excellent article written by Lenore T. Adkins and published in the Daily Herald on Sunday.

Downtown Elgin Scores Big in the Local Press

Downtown was featured in several articles in both local newspapers this weekend.

Here are the box scores.
A triple for Akina's, Simple and Fountain Square on the River with three mentions.
A double for River Park Place with two mentions.
Singles for Al’s Cafe & Creamery, the Rowhomes on Kimball, Ace Hardware, Prairie Rock, Keeney's, The Martini Room, Simple Balance Holistic Center and That Suits You (also had an article last week).
I tried to keep my scorecard up to date but with so much action I may have missed a play.

The Courier News "Around Our Towns" Elgin section highlighted the new residential developments, River Park Place, the Rowhomes on Kimball and Fountain Square. The effect on downtown retail, including Ace Hardware, Akina's, Prairie Rock, Keeney's and The Martini Room was given it's share of column space. Jim and Cindy Bechtold, the owners of Simple, had an entire story about the store and their white postcards.

Mark Billings of the Daily Herald, had a story on the renovation at the old J.C. Penney building, 51 S. Grove. In April, it will become the sales and marketing center for the Fountain Square on the River residential development. Akina's was mentioned in the same article. Two stories on Simple by Lenore T. Adkins.

All this and the baseball season doesn't even start until next week.

Sign Forum Results

March 15th Sign Forum
Tom Armstrong and Sarosh Saher from the City of Elgin partnered with Paul Bednar, DNA Design Committee Co-Chair to present new sign options for downtown. 17 people listened to the ideas and then offered some of their own while enjoying the comforts of a Gail Borden Library meeting room. Our own Patricia Keeney, was interviewed by the Daily Herald.

Reference materials are listed below for those of you that missed the forum.
Update:
Presentation (Large file 16M)

Examples from other cities

Mesa, AZ
Sign Design Guidelines
Portable Sign Guidelines/Requirements
Comprehensive Sign Package Procedures
Outdoor Display Guidelines/Requirements

Davis, CA
Design Guidelines

Pasadena, CA
Sign Design Guidelines

Batavia to discuss facade programs

A Daily Herald article about Batavia's facade program references the success found in Elgin with a quote from Sarosh Saher.

No Green River in Elgin

West Dundee's plans to dye the Fox River green for the St. Patrick's Day Parade was shutdown by Elgin officals. The only green we need in the river is the money that flows out of the Grand Victoria and the environmental "green" to keep our source of drinking water clean.

New Riverfront Project

Riverwalk to be extended north of Kimball. It doesn't include an underpass below the Kimball Street bridge. The city awarded the more than $900,000 contract to Elgin-based Martam Construction. The project is expected to last three to five months and begin this spring.