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7 years ago
Thursday, September 04, 2008
Downtown Elgin Top 10 List - September 4, 2008
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Thursday, August 28, 2008
A Day in the Life of Downtown Elgin
They say you can’t judge a person until you walk a mile in their shoes.
This fall, I’ll be stepping out of my signature three-inch heels and stepping into the shoes of the downtown business owner.
I’m not looking to judge, but rather to understand what life is really like for our downtown businesses. During the months of September and October, I’ll be working one day a week at a downtown shop or restaurant – serving food, selling jewelry, mixing cocktails . . . whatever the job calls for.
My goal here is to help our organization better serve our businesses. I want to experience their struggles and their successes first hand. And I want to tell all of you about it in my column, so you can experience them, too. I hope this insider’s perspective will give us all a better understanding and appreciation for what it takes to be a downtown in the midst of revitalization.
My first crack at this will be serving lunch at the Elgin Public House the week of September 15. I’ll let you know the exact day soon so you can come and harass me. I have never worked in a restaurant before, so if I mess up your order, I sincerely apologize ahead of time.
More to come on this exciting project in next week’s column. Stay tuned.
The kids are back in school (Did I just hear a collective “whoo hoo!” from some exhausted parents?) and the summer is coming to a close. But there are still a handful of great family friendly events in downtown for you to make the summer last just a little longer.
September 5-7 is the annual end of summer carnival on the former Gail Borden Library parking lot at the corner of Kimball St. and N. Grove. There are unlimited ride specials on Saturday and Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m., so kids can ride the Zipper until they puke. Doesn’t that sound like fun?
On September 6, more than 200 show cars will take over the City Hall parking lot on Douglas Ave. for the Downtown Elgin “Back to the Future” Car & AFV Show. Everything from old Model T’s to new electric cars will be on display. The event goes from 9am to 3pm and it’s free.
Also on September 6 the Boys & Girls Club will host its 10th annual Duckapolooza in Festival Park where thousands of rubber duckies will compete to win the grand prize of one million dollars, and thousands of dollars in other prizes. Yes, I did say one million. There’s an awesome lineup of bands this year too, including Drop, Bagshot Row, The Lenny's, Kashmir, Blue Truth and Nick Moss and the Flip Tops. This event starts at noon and ends around 11 p.m.
Closing out the summer is the 10th annual Fiesta Salsa on September 13 in Festival Park. This event is jam-packed with food, dancing, music, a jalapeno eating contest, a salsa making contest, a parade through downtown and more. The parade begins at noon and the event runs until 11 p.m.
For more information on these events, or other fun ways to spend your time and money in downtown Elgin, call the Downtown Neighborhood Association at 847-488-1456.
This fall, I’ll be stepping out of my signature three-inch heels and stepping into the shoes of the downtown business owner.
I’m not looking to judge, but rather to understand what life is really like for our downtown businesses. During the months of September and October, I’ll be working one day a week at a downtown shop or restaurant – serving food, selling jewelry, mixing cocktails . . . whatever the job calls for.
My goal here is to help our organization better serve our businesses. I want to experience their struggles and their successes first hand. And I want to tell all of you about it in my column, so you can experience them, too. I hope this insider’s perspective will give us all a better understanding and appreciation for what it takes to be a downtown in the midst of revitalization.
My first crack at this will be serving lunch at the Elgin Public House the week of September 15. I’ll let you know the exact day soon so you can come and harass me. I have never worked in a restaurant before, so if I mess up your order, I sincerely apologize ahead of time.
More to come on this exciting project in next week’s column. Stay tuned.
The kids are back in school (Did I just hear a collective “whoo hoo!” from some exhausted parents?) and the summer is coming to a close. But there are still a handful of great family friendly events in downtown for you to make the summer last just a little longer.
September 5-7 is the annual end of summer carnival on the former Gail Borden Library parking lot at the corner of Kimball St. and N. Grove. There are unlimited ride specials on Saturday and Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m., so kids can ride the Zipper until they puke. Doesn’t that sound like fun?
On September 6, more than 200 show cars will take over the City Hall parking lot on Douglas Ave. for the Downtown Elgin “Back to the Future” Car & AFV Show. Everything from old Model T’s to new electric cars will be on display. The event goes from 9am to 3pm and it’s free.
Also on September 6 the Boys & Girls Club will host its 10th annual Duckapolooza in Festival Park where thousands of rubber duckies will compete to win the grand prize of one million dollars, and thousands of dollars in other prizes. Yes, I did say one million. There’s an awesome lineup of bands this year too, including Drop, Bagshot Row, The Lenny's, Kashmir, Blue Truth and Nick Moss and the Flip Tops. This event starts at noon and ends around 11 p.m.
Closing out the summer is the 10th annual Fiesta Salsa on September 13 in Festival Park. This event is jam-packed with food, dancing, music, a jalapeno eating contest, a salsa making contest, a parade through downtown and more. The parade begins at noon and the event runs until 11 p.m.
For more information on these events, or other fun ways to spend your time and money in downtown Elgin, call the Downtown Neighborhood Association at 847-488-1456.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
Downtown Elgin Top 10 List - August 28, 2008
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Saturday, August 23, 2008
Downtown Blog in a Cloud
Want to visualize text or RSS feeds in a "Word Cloud"? Use this tool from Wordle. Here are some examples using the Downtown Elgin blog RSS feed.
Try it for yourself.
Try it for yourself.
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Walking Around in Downtown
You would have hardly recognized Downtown Elgin last Friday night.
There were people down here. A lot of them. And they were having a great time at our bars and restaurants. Imagine that.
It’s happening, people. Downtown Elgin is coming back to life.
More than a thousand people from throughout the Fox Valley came downtown for Elgin’s 4th annual pub crawl. There were 25 year olds, 40 year olds, 55 year olds . . . even an 82 year old guy – and he was the life of the party.
There were a few people who took the name of the event literally and were crawling into cabs by the end of the night. But the overwhelming majority of people left with symptoms that were nothing a couple aspirins couldn’t handle.
The big news of the night was the raffle for the Harley Davidson. Congratulations to Adam Murray, who is certainly not reading this article because he lives in Arizona. Go figure. But after a week of leaving him messages saying, “Hey, you won a Harley, call us back,” he finally called back. And now he is moving back to Elgin. Go figure.
I have to say a big thanks to Geoffrey Sands, Kim Parsons and the Elgin Jaycees for organizing the pub crawl. These people directly contributed to making an economic impact of more than $20,000 on the downtown that evening – not to mention the ripple effect of pub crawlers returning to downtown at a later date for dinner, a cup of coffee, a show at the Hemmens, or to buy a gift.
The following day, when pub crawlers were sleeping off the remnants of the night, a fresh crowd of people was taking to the streets of downtown for an event called Walkabout: Theatre on your Feet.
Theatre-goers enjoyed skits by local theater companies in the downtown shops and restaurants of Lily Falls Gift Boutique, Ravenheart Coffee, Elgin Books, Elgin Public House and Al’s Café. And where once was a beer garden in Fountain Square just hours the night before became an Alley of Art, with works of art by local artists on display.
If you missed it, don’t worry. There’s no need to be so dramatic. You have one more chance to experience the Walkabout and Alley of Art on August 30. Tickets are $12 at the door but you have to reserve a space by calling (847) 841-1713. You can learn more at ElginWalkabout.Blogspot.com.
It was another great weekend in Downtown Elgin. If you’re one of those people who are still down on Downtown, you should realize that your species is quickly becoming extinct. Come on, join in the fun. There’s something for everyone.
Learn more about what’s happening at DowntownElgin.org.
There were people down here. A lot of them. And they were having a great time at our bars and restaurants. Imagine that.
It’s happening, people. Downtown Elgin is coming back to life.
More than a thousand people from throughout the Fox Valley came downtown for Elgin’s 4th annual pub crawl. There were 25 year olds, 40 year olds, 55 year olds . . . even an 82 year old guy – and he was the life of the party.
There were a few people who took the name of the event literally and were crawling into cabs by the end of the night. But the overwhelming majority of people left with symptoms that were nothing a couple aspirins couldn’t handle.
The big news of the night was the raffle for the Harley Davidson. Congratulations to Adam Murray, who is certainly not reading this article because he lives in Arizona. Go figure. But after a week of leaving him messages saying, “Hey, you won a Harley, call us back,” he finally called back. And now he is moving back to Elgin. Go figure.
I have to say a big thanks to Geoffrey Sands, Kim Parsons and the Elgin Jaycees for organizing the pub crawl. These people directly contributed to making an economic impact of more than $20,000 on the downtown that evening – not to mention the ripple effect of pub crawlers returning to downtown at a later date for dinner, a cup of coffee, a show at the Hemmens, or to buy a gift.
The following day, when pub crawlers were sleeping off the remnants of the night, a fresh crowd of people was taking to the streets of downtown for an event called Walkabout: Theatre on your Feet.
Theatre-goers enjoyed skits by local theater companies in the downtown shops and restaurants of Lily Falls Gift Boutique, Ravenheart Coffee, Elgin Books, Elgin Public House and Al’s Café. And where once was a beer garden in Fountain Square just hours the night before became an Alley of Art, with works of art by local artists on display.
If you missed it, don’t worry. There’s no need to be so dramatic. You have one more chance to experience the Walkabout and Alley of Art on August 30. Tickets are $12 at the door but you have to reserve a space by calling (847) 841-1713. You can learn more at ElginWalkabout.Blogspot.com.
It was another great weekend in Downtown Elgin. If you’re one of those people who are still down on Downtown, you should realize that your species is quickly becoming extinct. Come on, join in the fun. There’s something for everyone.
Learn more about what’s happening at DowntownElgin.org.
Downtown Elgin Top 10 List - August 21, 2008
| Top 10 List |
1 - Harvest Market |
2 - Brown Bag |
3 - Sidewalk Sales |
4 - Out to Lunch |
5 - Comedy |
6 - Theater & Art |
7 - Library Card Sign-Up |
8 - Asian Fest |
9 - Car Show |
10 - DNA Gala |
Click to view details
Click here to have the Top 10 List delivered to you every week. All those who sign up in August will be placed in a drawing to win a $10 gift card from Ravenheart Coffee.
Saturday, August 16, 2008
Signs
New sign for the Fulton Street parking deck. We could use one of these for the Spring Street deck.
Mad Maggies sign. The restaurant and bar will open in September. Those on the Pub Crawl had a sneak peek and I can confirm that it is impressive.
Per comment from Brian, Mad Maggies won't be a dance club really, maybe some fun 80's/indie dance nights mixed with bands etc...but the dance floor you mention is going to be the main dining area for the restaurant which should be open in a week or two, check out madmaggies.net or mpshows.com for upcoming events, specials and more!One problem could be the nearly identical bars on the first and second floors. You may think you're seeing double before your first drink.
Al's sign on Spring Street. These are great examples of signage in downtown Elgin, let's see some more like these.
Alley of Art - Week 1
You have two more chances to experience Alley of Art and Walkabout Theatre for yourself on August 23rd and 30th. More info is available here.
Daily Herald article - Live theater comes to Elgin
BoriquaFest 2008
The music
The booths
The colors
The roasted pork
The drinks
Courier News article - Elgin fest celebrates all things Puerto Rican and photos
Friday, August 15, 2008
Downtown Blog is all in a Twitter
Now you can follow the Downtown Elgin blog using Twitter. Well that clears it up.
We will now Tweet whenever a new article is posted on the blog.
What?
Let me explain. Twitter, is a service that allows you to send short messages to people that follow you. Like status updates on Facebook. You can receive Twitter updates on your cell phone via SMS messages, on an iPhone app or on your computer using the web. If you are already into Twitter you can follow us at "downtownelgin". If you want to see what it is all about go to Twitter and sign up.
We will be tweeting about events and breaking news in addition to new blog posts.
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Downtown Elgin Top 10 List - August 15, 2008
| Top 10 List |
1 - Harvest Market |
2 - Elgin Pub Crawl |
3 - Boriqua Fest |
4 - Theater & Art |
5 - Sidewalk Sales |
6 - Chicago Bandits |
7 - Library Card Sign-Up |
8 - DNA Gala |
9 - Brown Bag |
10 - Comedy |
Click to view details
Click here to have the Top 10 List delivered to you every week. All those who sign up in August will be placed in a drawing to win a $10 gift card from Ravenheart Coffee.
Thursday, August 07, 2008
Bike Clinic at Harvest Market
A bike clinic was held at Harvest Market in conjunction with Bike-to-Work Week in Elgin.
Stephan Pickett from the Bicycle Garage in East Dundee explains the basics of maintaining your bike.
About 15 people stopped by to learn more about taking care of their bikes. Stephan pointed out that a bike is a machine, not a toy, treat it as such. As more and more people are using their bikes as an alternate form of transportation, the care and feeding of your machine takes on new meaning.
Stephan Pickett from the Bicycle Garage in East Dundee explains the basics of maintaining your bike.
About 15 people stopped by to learn more about taking care of their bikes. Stephan pointed out that a bike is a machine, not a toy, treat it as such. As more and more people are using their bikes as an alternate form of transportation, the care and feeding of your machine takes on new meaning.
A great weekend for Elgin
Elgin, you rock.
Last weekend’s Fox Fire Fest was a prime example of our city’s awesome potential.
The jam-packed line up of music, food, art, fun and fireworks in Festival Park brought an estimated 22,000 people into the downtown area over the course of the three-day event.
I, for one, was giddy on Saturday night looking over the sea of 10,000-plus people jamming to Blues Traveler. So giddy, in fact, that my claustrophobic tendencies weren’t even kicking in. And the streets and bars of downtown were still jamming long after the concert ended.
I saw the future of Downtown Elgin that night, and it was so cool.
I ran into quite a few fellow Elginites over the weekend, and the comment I kept hearing again and again was “Wow, I can’t believe this is Elgin.” Some people might take this is a slam. But I – the eternal optimist – took this as a great compliment. People are recognizing that things are changing, and they are excited and encouraged by what lies ahead.
On behalf of the City and the Downtown Neighborhood Association, I’d just like to say a big thanks to all who volunteered at and attended Fox Fire Fest, and a special thanks to those of you who brought friends and family along to experience Elgin.
And speaking of thanks, I also have to say a huge thanks to all those involved with the Elgin Cycling Classic in Lord’s Park on Sunday, August 3.
The committee’s decision to move the bike race out of downtown and into Lord’s Park in lieu of Fox Fire Fest and construction traffic turned out to be a great one. More than 200 cyclists from all over Northern Illinois and beyond competed in the race for more than $12,000 in cash prizes.
Cyclists and spectators alike enjoyed the course, and the air-conditioned Lord’s Park Pavilion was a welcome change from holding registration in a stuffy parking garage in previous years.
I have to admit that I was surprised at how exciting a criterium-style bike race can be, and it has nothing to do with bike shorts. Okay, maybe it has a little to do with bike shorts. But seriously, I can now call myself a cycling fan. And if I didn’t look ridiculous in the helmet, I would even take up the sport.
The Elgin Cycling Classic would not have been possible without the help and support of the residents in the Lord’s Park neighborhood and the congregation of El Mesias United Methodist Church. Thank you for being so accommodating about the closed streets and the detours.
Though I am always proud to call Elgin home, I was bursting with pride last weekend with all the exciting things happening here. And there is so much more to come.
Grab your shades, people. Our city’s future is looking really bright.
Last weekend’s Fox Fire Fest was a prime example of our city’s awesome potential.
The jam-packed line up of music, food, art, fun and fireworks in Festival Park brought an estimated 22,000 people into the downtown area over the course of the three-day event.
I, for one, was giddy on Saturday night looking over the sea of 10,000-plus people jamming to Blues Traveler. So giddy, in fact, that my claustrophobic tendencies weren’t even kicking in. And the streets and bars of downtown were still jamming long after the concert ended.
I saw the future of Downtown Elgin that night, and it was so cool.
I ran into quite a few fellow Elginites over the weekend, and the comment I kept hearing again and again was “Wow, I can’t believe this is Elgin.” Some people might take this is a slam. But I – the eternal optimist – took this as a great compliment. People are recognizing that things are changing, and they are excited and encouraged by what lies ahead.
On behalf of the City and the Downtown Neighborhood Association, I’d just like to say a big thanks to all who volunteered at and attended Fox Fire Fest, and a special thanks to those of you who brought friends and family along to experience Elgin.
And speaking of thanks, I also have to say a huge thanks to all those involved with the Elgin Cycling Classic in Lord’s Park on Sunday, August 3.
The committee’s decision to move the bike race out of downtown and into Lord’s Park in lieu of Fox Fire Fest and construction traffic turned out to be a great one. More than 200 cyclists from all over Northern Illinois and beyond competed in the race for more than $12,000 in cash prizes.
Cyclists and spectators alike enjoyed the course, and the air-conditioned Lord’s Park Pavilion was a welcome change from holding registration in a stuffy parking garage in previous years.
I have to admit that I was surprised at how exciting a criterium-style bike race can be, and it has nothing to do with bike shorts. Okay, maybe it has a little to do with bike shorts. But seriously, I can now call myself a cycling fan. And if I didn’t look ridiculous in the helmet, I would even take up the sport.
The Elgin Cycling Classic would not have been possible without the help and support of the residents in the Lord’s Park neighborhood and the congregation of El Mesias United Methodist Church. Thank you for being so accommodating about the closed streets and the detours.
Though I am always proud to call Elgin home, I was bursting with pride last weekend with all the exciting things happening here. And there is so much more to come.
Grab your shades, people. Our city’s future is looking really bright.
Downtown Elgin Top 10 List - August 6, 2008
Click here to have the Top 10 List delivered to you every week. All those who sign up in August will be placed in a drawing to win a $10 gift card from Ravenheart Coffee.
Sunday, August 03, 2008
Elgin Cycling Classic 2008
I got to enjoy Sunday morning in the Lords Park neighborhood volunteering as a corner marshal. It was a beautiful day for bike racing through the hills and turns of the tree lined streets.
UPDATE: Newspaper links
Frenzied finish in Elgin Cycling Classic - The Courier News
Photo Gallery - The Courier News
Wisconsin man wins Elgin Cycling Classic - Daily Herald
UPDATE: Newspaper links
Frenzied finish in Elgin Cycling Classic - The Courier News
Photo Gallery - The Courier News
Wisconsin man wins Elgin Cycling Classic - Daily Herald
The Master Men 40/50 race is about to start.
The Master Men's race in progress.
Councilman John Steffen in the center during the Cat 5 race.
Bob Mihelich of Elgin is cooling off after his first bike race. Fans, Erin and Reed found a shady spot to cheer him on.
Sgt. Glenn Theriault was busy checking on the corner marshals and keeping us supplied with water while supervising the route.
The race is possible because of the efforts of volunteers and the generosity of the sponsors:
Sherman Health
The City of Elgin
Cla-Val
Fox Valley Endodontic Specialists, Dr. Cindy Rauschenberger
TranSystems
YWCA
Downtown Neighborhood Association of Elgin
Saturday, August 02, 2008
"Elginpalooza" aka FoxFireFest
Mayor Ed Schock and council members Figueroa, Kaptain, Powers and Steffen opened up FoxFireFest and introduced the Elgin Symphony Orchestra (ESO). Maestro Hanson adapted to the urban environment of Festival Park by selecting western themed music and adding a harmonica which blended perfectly with the occasional whisles and rumbling of the nearby trains. The performance included the theme from the TV show The Wild Wild West and the William Tell Overture. I was heading back to my seat during the overture and had the urge to gallop, but resisted.
Spotted in the crowd was former ESO Executive Director, Michael Pastreich and new U46 Superintendent, Dr. Jose Torres. OK, I'll stop now, I don't want to scoop Betty Brown.
It's not too late to enjoy it yourself. Saturday features Starship and Blues Traveler with more fireworks and Sister Hazel will perform on Sunday. There is much more, just click here for the details FoxFireFest. Don't forget FoxFireFest is FREE!
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
FoxFireFest - August 1 - 3, 2008
FoxFireFest, as the name implies, is an event focused around the glow of fire on the water, including a mystical night-time fire and light show on the river, accompanied by unique theatre, art, dance and musical performers.
August 1 - 3, 2008
FREE - More info here>
Friday 5 pm to 10 pm
Saturday 12 pm to 11 pm
Sunday 12 pm to 9 pm
Festival Park
136 South Grove Ave
Downtown Elgin
Free parking
or ride your bike and use the free bike corral.
Entertainment
Friday
6:00 pm Elgin O.P.E.R.A.
7:30 pm Elgin Symphony Orchestra (ESO)
9:30 pm Fireworks
Saturday
12 - 4 pm Childrens Activities
4 - 8 pm Teen Activities
6:00 pm Starship
8:00 pm Blues Traveler
10:30 pm Fireworks
Sunday
12 - 4 pm Childrens Activities
3:30 pm Elevation
5:30 pm Sister Hazel
AAUW Art Showcase
Saturday 12 - 6 pm
Sunday 12 - 5 pm
Elgin Cycling Classic
Sunday, 8 am - 5 pm in the Lords Park neighborhood
Food Vendors
Chinese Wok, (840 Summit Street, Elgin) -Combo Fried Rice, Egg Roll, Beef Teriyaki and Crab Rangoon
Dairy Queen, (1022 S. McLean Blvd, Elgin) - Blizzards, Ice Cream Bars, Lemon Chill Cups, Chocolate Bananas
Maui Wowi, (2310 Fairfax Rd., Elgin)- Fresh Fruit Smoothies, Hawaiian Coffee Smoothie
Jethro's, (9911 N. Clark, Richmond, IL)- Funnel Cakes, Curly Chips w/Cheese, Deep Fried Oreos & Twinkies
White Cottage Pizza, (220 S. Randall Rd., Elgin, IL)- Sausage Pizza, Cheese Pizza, Bread Sticks w/ Garlic Cheese
Casa Lara (previously Jalapeno's), ( 7 Clock Tower Plaza, Elgin)- Tacos, Quesadillas, Flautas
JJ's Chicken & Fish, (79 Clock Tower Plaza, Elgin)-Chicken Wings, Ribs, Pulled Pork Sandwich
Gasthaus Zur Linde, (15 N Grove, Elgin)- Bratwurst, Thuringer, Corn on the Cob
Big Sammy's Hot Dogs, ( 2490 Bushwood Drive, Elgin)- Hot Dogs, Bag of Chips
Elgin Public House (219 E. Chicago St., Elgin)- Hamburger/Cheesburger, Veggie Burger, Grilled Chicken Sandwich
Lucky's Bar and Grill, (335 N. McLean Blvd., S. Elgin)-Nachos Grande, Italian Beef Sandwich, Italian Sausage Sandwich
Victors Grill, (6235 N. Keystone, Chicago) -Shish-k-bob, Gyros, Polish Sausage
Sloppy Joe's, (210 Penny Ave, Unit D, Dundee, IL)- Sloppy Joe's, Chocolate Chip Cookies
JC's Barbecue, (116 Penny Ave., East Dundee, IL) - BBQ Beef Brisket Sandwich, ½ Smoked BBQ Chicken, Pupusas
FoxFireFest incorporates the best elements of the previous Fine Arts Fest, but has expanded to showcase the wide variety of cultural amenities and performing arts groups centered in the Elgin area, with two stages offering non-stop entertainment. The food and beverage area will also feature an eclectic mix for all ages, including a beer garden.
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Elgin Community Network (ECN) Unveils Website
The Elgin Community Network (ECN) has a website at www.elgin-ecn.org
The site was created by Sensory Productions, a local firm.
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Downtown Elgin Top 10 List - July 11, 2008
Downtown Elgin Top 10 List - July 11, 2008
1 - Tutor Training
2 - "Eroica"
3 - Museum Events
4 - Saving the Earth
5 - Opportunities
6 - Harvest Market
7 - July Sale
8 - HAIR
9 - Sell Your Art
10 - Networking Event
Click to view details.
2 - "Eroica"
3 - Museum Events
4 - Saving the Earth
5 - Opportunities
6 - Harvest Market
7 - July Sale
8 - HAIR
9 - Sell Your Art
10 - Networking Event
Click to view details.
Saturday, July 05, 2008
Downtown Elgin Top 10 List - July 4, 2008
Downtown Elgin Top 10 List - July 4, 2008
1 - 4th of July Parade
2 - 4th of July Fireworks
3 - "Eroica"
4 - Harvest Market
5 - Elgin Opera
6 - Hemmens Tickets
7 - Library Events
8 - Open Mike Night
9 - Opportunities
10 - Construction
Click to view details.
1 - 4th of July Parade
2 - 4th of July Fireworks
3 - "Eroica"
4 - Harvest Market
5 - Elgin Opera
6 - Hemmens Tickets
7 - Library Events
8 - Open Mike Night
9 - Opportunities
10 - Construction
Click to view details.
Elgin Fourth of July Parade
The parade is over but you can read about it, watch a video and see last years photos below.
City of Elgin video
UPDATE
Monday, June 30, 2008
2007 vs. 2008 Stats for DNA Website
This is great!!
Just think what the summer months probably had for hits with all of the events going on in Downtown Elgin!
Slow Global Warming Heads to the Market
This coming week Slow Global Warming-Elgin group will be joining the Harvest Market on Thursday, July 3rd, 10am – 2pm, giving away CFL light bulbs from Com Ed and other freebies. This group formed two years ago as a small group of Elginites, which met after seeing Al Gore’s "An Inconvenient Truth". They voiced their concerns about the drastic climate change shifts happening everywhere in the world, including here in the Fox Valley. While the problem seemed overwhelming- they realized that change could be made - one person at a time. That core group has now expanded to over 100 & partnered with the City of Elgin, Elgin Community Network, Gail Borden Library & the Grand Victoria Foundation over the past year on various events. Their motto is THINK GLOBAL - ACT LOCAL. Many helpful tips are found in their "Elgin Greensheet" which has been requested as a model for other communities. Monthly happenings can be viewed on their website at www.slowglobalwarming-elgin.com.
Highlighted Harvest Market Vendor of the Week: Breadsmith
Guy Grenfeld bought Breadsmith in Geneva two years ago. The past owners had already been going to farmer’s markets so Guy kept the tradition going to 6 markets a week. His staff brings muffins, scones, honey white breads, wheat breads, sweet breads, Italian breads, and more to the hungry passer bys and employees of Downtown Elgin. They even do custom breads around the holidays like turkey shaped bread for Thanksgiving and Christmas tree shaped bread around Christmas. They even do custom orders. When asked his favorite kind of bread, Guy answered the Maple Walnut and the English muffins. Guy’s background was a pastry chef, having been trained & receiving his degree at Elgin Community College and before that grew up in Tel Aviv, Israel. When asked if he will open a Breadsmith in Downtown Elgin, Guy just smiled his easy smile and said he “Doesn’t know yet”. So for now take advantage of his local location at the Elgin Harvest Market.
The Downtown Elgin Harvest Market is held every Thursday, now through September 25, featuring everything from fruits, vegetables, bunch flowers, delicious jams, healthy gourmet dog treats, bread, pies, muffins and scones, to free range meats and eggs, cheese, pickles, and olive oil all displayed in an open-air market like venue. Later in the summer be prepared for spices, seafood, Asian produce, more plants and that market favorite Mirai corn! The market is held at the Civic Center parking lot at the corner of E. Highland and Douglas Avenue, near the Post office and City Hall, and is open 10am - 6pm.
The public is invited to enjoy a great season right in the heart of our community. All merchants interested in an application for the 2008 season or to be there on a weekly basis can call the Downtown Neighborhood Association at 847.488.1456, go to www.downtownelgin.org, or stop by the office on the first floor of the Elgin Tower Building, at 2 Douglas Avenue in Downtown Elgin.
Saturday, June 28, 2008
Out to Lunch - Villa Verone
Monday, June 30, 12 Noon
Villa Verone, 13 Douglas Avenue
Out to Lunch with an Italian buffet(Caprese and Penne Primavera). The dessert is Lemon Ice and non-alcoholic beverages are included, all for the cost of $8.50, DNA board member Karin Jones is the guest speaker. To RSVP call 847.488.1456 or e-mail jbenson@elginil.org
Thursday, June 26, 2008
Fourth of July Parade and Concert
Friday, July 4th at 9 am
Starting at the corner of Douglas and Slade and ending at Douglas and Highland. Click here for a map.
We're celebrating the "Red, White and BLUES" Abraham Lincoln style for this year's 4th of July Parade through Downtown Elgin.
The parade is quickly becoming one of the best in the 'burbs! More than 15,000 spectators come out to see the variety of entertainment and decorated floats and to show their community pride!
The parade will feature our Grand Marshall, Tammy Duckworth, Director of the Illinois Department of Veteran Affairs, plus a special tribute to our veterans, and much more.
Honest Abe's Rockin' Blues ConcertElgin's July 4th celebration doesn't end when the last float passes the finish line - it's just getting started! Join us for a free, family-friendly Blues concert in the Civic Center Parking Lot featuring The Blooze Brothers, AC Rock and the Midway Ramblers Cajun Band from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Downtown Elgin will be open for business
Plan to get a bite to eat and check out some of our new shops.
Ravenheart Coffee - Try a Boilermaker
176 E. Chicago St.
Elgin Public House - Burgers Mmmm
219 E. Chicago St.
Quizno's Subs - Toasty
59 Douglas Ave.
Villa Verone - That's Italian
13 Douglas Ave.
Al's Cafe & Creamery - Chocolate Malt
43 DuPage Ct.
El Faro - Burrito
9 N. State St.
Camaroncito Loco - Seafood
21 N. State St.
Spanky's Gyros - Cheeseburger Cheeseburger
51 Clock Tower Plaza
Razor's Edge - Social Center
55 Douglas Ave.
Lily Falls Gift Boutique - Perfect Petzzz
10 Douglas Ave.
Use the interactive map to plan your day.
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
Downtown Elgin Top 10 List - June 27 - July 6, 2008
Downtown Elgin Top 10 List - June 27 - July 6, 2008
1 - Free Ice Cream
2 - Harvest Market
3 - Summer Workshop
4 - Out to Lunch
5 - WANTED: Artists
6 - Opportunities
7 - Yoga Discounts
8 - "Eroica"
9 - 4th of July Events
10 - Construction
Click to view details.
1 - Free Ice Cream
2 - Harvest Market
3 - Summer Workshop
4 - Out to Lunch
5 - WANTED: Artists
6 - Opportunities
7 - Yoga Discounts
8 - "Eroica"
9 - 4th of July Events
10 - Construction
Click to view details.
Monday, June 23, 2008
Downtown Elgin Streetscape Phase 2
We are in year two of a six year City of Elgin program to replace the water mains, separate sanitary and storm sewers and install new sidewalks, curbs and street resurfacing throughout downtown Elgin.
Phase 2 consists of the following areas:
Chicago St. from Riverside Drive to Villa St.
Grove from Highland to just south of Chicago St.
Spring St. from Chicago to Highland
and Douglas from Chicago St. to the alley north of Chicago.
Construction will be completed in 7 stages starting June 23rd, each lasting approximately 3 weeks, with final completion scheduled for Thanksgiving of 2008.
Stages
1. South side of Chicago Street - Riverside Drive to S. Grove Ave.; west side of S. Grove around Fountain Square Plaza.
2. East side of S. Grove Avenue (from alleyway); south side of Chicago Street – S. Grove to Spring Street; west side of Spring Street.
3. East side of Spring Street; south side of Chicago Street - Spring Street to Villa Court.
4. North side of Chicago Street – Riverside Drive to north Grove; west side of north Grove Avenue.
5. East side of north Grove Avenue; north side of Chicago – south Grove to Douglas Avenue; west side of Douglas Avenue.
6. East side of Douglas; north side of Chicago – Douglas Avenue to Spring Street; west side of Spring Street.
7. East side of Spring Street; north side of Chicago – Spring Street to Villa Court (Center Street).
This is the result from Phase 1
Please visit downtownelgin.info for project details. Click here to view the blog posts related to the project.
Phase 2 consists of the following areas:
Chicago St. from Riverside Drive to Villa St.
Grove from Highland to just south of Chicago St.
Spring St. from Chicago to Highland
and Douglas from Chicago St. to the alley north of Chicago.
Construction will be completed in 7 stages starting June 23rd, each lasting approximately 3 weeks, with final completion scheduled for Thanksgiving of 2008.Stages
1. South side of Chicago Street - Riverside Drive to S. Grove Ave.; west side of S. Grove around Fountain Square Plaza.
2. East side of S. Grove Avenue (from alleyway); south side of Chicago Street – S. Grove to Spring Street; west side of Spring Street.
3. East side of Spring Street; south side of Chicago Street - Spring Street to Villa Court.
4. North side of Chicago Street – Riverside Drive to north Grove; west side of north Grove Avenue.
5. East side of north Grove Avenue; north side of Chicago – south Grove to Douglas Avenue; west side of Douglas Avenue.
6. East side of Douglas; north side of Chicago – Douglas Avenue to Spring Street; west side of Spring Street.
7. East side of Spring Street; north side of Chicago – Spring Street to Villa Court (Center Street).
This is the result from Phase 1
Please visit downtownelgin.info for project details. Click here to view the blog posts related to the project.
Sunday, June 22, 2008
Fox River Festival of Balloons
Here is a video and article from the Courier News.
It was a great evening at Festival Park benefiting the Community Crisis Center. The families and kids enjoyed the train, fountain, fire truck and balloons. I sat back and enjoyed the food, beer, steel drum band, hot air balloons and conversations with friends. We arrived too late to see the bed races and the other entertainment. Article from the Daily Herald.
It was a great evening at Festival Park benefiting the Community Crisis Center. The families and kids enjoyed the train, fountain, fire truck and balloons. I sat back and enjoyed the food, beer, steel drum band, hot air balloons and conversations with friends. We arrived too late to see the bed races and the other entertainment. Article from the Daily Herald.
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