Update on Downtown Snow Removal

The City of Elgin is continually adjusting its snow removal plan to manage the storm that is upon us. At this time, a city crew has been assigned to haul snow out of downtown in order to expedite the clean-up process over the next few days. Your cooperation is requested in the following ways:

1. Please do not park on downtown streets from Tuesday through Saturday morning. The city's plan is to use large snow removal equipment to pick up the snow on the curbs and bump outs. Having a clear path to do so will make this process faster and more efficient. We urge you to park in the city lots and decks today through Saturday. Parking time limits will not be enforced in city lots and decks during this time. Enforcement will resume Monday at 8AM.

2. Please shovel the snow in front of your property/business to the curb line in preparation for this haul out effort.

Thank you for your cooperation.

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Stay Informed

Here is some additional information on how to receive the City's updates directly. Resident safety is the city's primary goal. Residents should not travel unless absolutely necessary.

· Information updates will be posted on Channel 17, on the City's website at www.cityofelgin.org and on the City of Elgin's Facebook and Twitter pages.

· Residents interested in receiving automated telephone updates can register on the city's website at www.cityofelgin.org. From the homepage's "quick links" section, go to "activate/deactivate CodeRed." Follow the instructions.

· Residents can also receive text message updates via Nixle. Registration information is at www.cityofelgin.org/police.

· If you have questions or concerns about snow removal, contact Elgin Snow Command at (847) 931-5977 or email snowcommand@cityofelgin.org.

Welcome New & Renewing DNA Members for 2011

The Downtown Neighborhood Association (DNA) of Elgin welcomes our new and renewing DNA Members from December 2010 (January 2011 members will be recognized in next week's blog):

City of Elgin
150 Dexter Court
(847) 931-6100

Elgin Area Chamber of Commerce
31 S. Grove Avenue
(847) 741-5660

Elgin Area Convention and Visitors Bureau
77 Riverside Drive
(847) 695-7540

Stickling Foundation
100 E. Chicago Street
(847) 742-8939

Izaak Walton League of America - Elgin Chapter

Tongue n Chic Dental Boutique
14 Douglas Avenue, Suite A
(847) 841-6665

Law Office of Shirley Sadjadi
169 E. Chicago Street
(847) 741-6180

VTS Investigations, LLC
800-538-4464

Ecker Center for Mental Health
1845 Grandstand Place
(847) 695-0484

Gail Borden Public Library
270 N. Grove Avenue
(847) 742-2411

Natalie Pepa

Bjorn & Hjordis Rektorli

Clare Ollayos

Howard A. Stege Jr. & Robert Knizner

Grace Richard

Tom Armstrong

Help support the organization that supports downtown Elgin by becoming a Downtown Neighborhood Association Member in 2011.

Community Family/Individual Memberships start as low as $30!

Community and Downtown Business Memberships are available with a variety of valuable member benefits packages including special member rates on DNA events, promotional mentions in the Downtown Neighborhood News, display ads at www.DowntownElgin.com and much more!

Click here for a list of available DNA Membership packages and rates > > >

You can even sign-up and pay for your DNA Membership securely via our Online Payment Processing Page.

For more information about DNA Membership or for other ways you can support downtown Elgin, contact us at 847.488.1456 or e-mail downtownelgin@gmail.com.

Downtown Snow Removal Notification

The National Weather Service has issued a Blizzard Warning, from this Tuesday afternoon through this Wednesday afternoon, for the entire North Central and Northeast section of Illinois (including Cook and Kane Counties) as well as a Hazardous Weather Outlook Warning for the next few days with heavy snow accumulations, strong winds, white-out conditions and sub-zero temperatures.

The Downtown Neighborhood Association would like to make you aware of some news regarding the City's snow removal plans as well as some precautions and measures we recommend you take in preparation for this weather event:

• The City of Elgin has informed us that the priority, first and foremost, will be to clear roads. As such, city crews will not be able to address snow removal on downtown city sidewalks for quite some time after this week's blizzard event. In general, responsiveness to all snow removal other than main roads will be delayed.

• With such a large accumulation of snow expected after the close of business on Tuesday, the clean-up on Wednesday will be especially difficult and will likely continue through the end of the week. We encourage downtown business and property owners to work together, lending a hand where needed and sharing resources, such as snow blowers.

• As a reminder, you may pile your snow on the curb line. We ask that you please not throw the snow into the street. As stated, the city crew's ability to remove the piles on the curb will be delayed.

• With temperatures expected to plummet Wednesday night into the sub-zero range, we ask that you keep your sidewalks salted through the weekend to help keep the build-up of dangerous ice on sidewalks to a minimum.

• The snow accumulation will also make parking on downtown streets very challenging. We encourage you to park in city surface lots or in the decks at Symphony, Spring or Fulton. Remember that street parking between 4 and 6AM is prohibited.

Questions or concerns regarding snow and ice control during the event can be directed to the Public Works Department through the city's 24 hour Snow Command Center by calling 847-931-5977 or by emailing the Snow Command Center at snowcommand@cityofelgin.org

We appreciate your patience and cooperation in this effort.


Local Online Resources:

www.cityofelgin.org - City of Elgin's website

www.facebook.com/cityofelgin - City of Elgin's Facebook page

www.u-46.org - School District U-46 website

www.facebook.com/downtownelgin - DNA's Facebook page

www.weather.com - Weather Channel website

The Scene - January 25, 2011

Let's set the "Scene" for your week of live entertainment and great fun in downtown Elgin:

Douglas Street Sports Pub
231 Douglas Avenue
847.695.5659
www.DouglasStreetSportsBar.com

Book your Super Bowl XLV party package now at DSSP. Packages start at $12 and be sure to inquire about booking their private party room. Halftime will be highlighted by their 2nd Annual Cheeseburger Chowdown Challenge. Call for more details!

The Gasthaus
15 N. Grove
847.695.8828

On Saturday, January 29 at 9:30pm, the Gasthaus welcomes Crossbones Inc. CBI mixes the intensity of the 80's hardcore punk scene with the catchy sensibilities of early punk bands like The Ramones and The Sex Pistols.

Red Bar Winery
74 S. Grove Avenue
847.741.0349
www.RedBarWinery.com

Time once again for Salsa Thursdays, each and every Thursday night at Red Bar After Dark! Enjoy a Tapas bar, red hot salsa dancing and music by DJ Mombo.

Villa Verone Ristorante Italiano
13 Douglas Avenue
847.742.0263
www.VillaVerone.net

On Thursday, January 27 at 6pm come out and say hello to this week's Elgin Person of the week, David Ham. Also, Elgin OPERA's Festival of Singers returns to Villa Verone on Sunday, January 30 from 6-9pm to perform Broadway showtunes, art songs and classic opera for your dining pleasure.

Elgin Public House
219 E. Chicago St.
847.468.8810
www.ElginPublicHouse.com

EPH's next trivia tourney for February/March begins Wednesday, February 2 at 7pm. With Half-Price Burger Nights every Monday night, Trivia Night every Wednesday and live jazz every Friday & Saturday, there's always something brewing at Elgin Public House.

Martini Room
161 E. Chicago Street
847.741.0349
www.MartiniRoomElgin.com

Bring all your rowdy friends to Martini Madness on Monday nights at Martini Room. All your favorite martinis are 25% off. Doors open at 4:30pm!

Be sure to check out Elgin Symphony Orchestra's Bring on the Brass - a Family Series Concert featuring the ESO Brass Quintet on Saturday, January 29 at 3:30pm at Hemmens, 45 Symphony Way. And Elgin Theatre Company's performance of Noises Off! returns for its second weekend at Elgin Academy's Kimball Street Theater on Friday and Saturday at 8pm and Sunday at 2pm.

City Manager Stegall to Speak at DNA Out to Lunch Meeting on January 25

A new season of the Downtown Neighborhood Association (DNA) of Elgin’s monthly Out to Lunch meetings debuts on Tuesday, January 25 with Guest Speaker Sean Stegall, City Manager for the City of Elgin. The luncheon takes place from Noon-1:15PM at La Puesta Del Sol Restaurant, 165 E. Highland Avenue in downtown Elgin.

For $12.00 per person, guests will be treated to a buffet luncheon of authentic Mexican cuisine, including appetizers, entrees, dessert and non-alcoholic beverages, followed by a brief presentation and Q&A session with Stegall. Guests are encouraged to pay in cash and are asked to RSVP to the DNA by Thursday, January 20 by phone at (847) 488-1456 or by e-mail at jpawlowski@elginil.org.

Sean R. Stegall has worked in municipal government for 14 years – the last seven for the City of Elgin where he has earned national recognition for his budgetary expertise. He oversees a staff of nearly 1,000 and works to assist the Mayor and City Council in moving Elgin forward. Stegall is a graduate of Western Illinois University and earned his Master of Public Administration from Northern Illinois University. He is also a graduate of Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government.

The Out to Lunch Meetings, presented by the DNA and normally conducted on the last Monday of each month, are an effort to engage the public by showcasing a different downtown Elgin restaurant each month and featuring guest speakers and topics relevant to the community. Past guest speakers have included City of Elgin Mayor Ed Schock, Police Chief Jeff Swoboda, and U-46 Superintendent Dr. Jose Torres.

Top 10 Ways to Get Involved in Your Downtown

1. Sign up to be a DNA Member

There has never been a better time to support the organization that supports downtown Elgin. DNA membership truly does have its privileges as our members enjoy a variety of valuable benefits. Your yearly membership fees help contribute to the continued revitalization of downtown.

2. Volunteer

The DNA is a community coalition of volunteers. They are the lifeblood of all that we do. We are always on the lookout for great volunteers who want to contribute their time and efforts into making downtown a better place to work, live and play. Contact us today to find out more about current volunteer opportunities.

3. Purchase downtown gift certificates

Downtown gift certificates are valid at over 65 downtown businesses. Gift certificates are available in denominations of $5 and $10 and make great gifts for family and friends. Stop by the DNA Office at 2 Douglas Avenue M-F from 9am-5:30pm to purchase yours!

4. Serve on a DNA committee

Our DNA volunteer committees provide the guidance to plan and support our downtown initiatives such as special events, promotions, image enhancement, economic development and more. If you would be interested in serving on a committee or would like to attend an upcoming committee meeting, please contact us.

5. Shop and dine downtown

With over 20 distinctive eateries, bistros and bars to whet your appetite and dozens of retail shops, boutiques, professional services and other unique businesses to patronize, make downtown your destination for dining and doing business.

6. Participate in downtown events

Whether shopping the Harvest Market for fresh, locally grown produce, bringing the family out for the Fourth of July Parade, Halloween Howl or Window Wonderland, or taking in one of the many public art exhibits or cultural festivals, we encourage everyone to take advantage of all there is to do and enjoy all year long in our downtown.

7. Become a community or corporate event sponsor

Our yearly slate of special events would not be possible without the generous support of our sponsors. If you or your company would be interested in sponsoring one or more of our DNA special events in 2011 or for a list of sponsorship opportunities, rates and benefit packages, please contact DNA Promotions Coordinator Jason Pawlowski at jpawlowski@elginil.org or call 847.488.1456.

8. Participate in local government

Attend city council meetings. Vote in the upcoming election. A fully-engaged downtown is a stronger downtown.

9. Stay informed

Stay on top of all the latest downtown news, special events, performances, exhibits, business promotions and charitable activities through the DNA's hyper-local social media presence on Facebook, Twitter, Blog, Website and Downtown Neighborhood News Top 10 eblast.

10. Give us your feedback

Have an idea for a new event or promotion? Suggestions on something you feel would enhance downtown Elgin? Feedback on things you really like? Critiques? Questions? Comments? Just want to chat? The DNA welcomes your input and encourages your active participation in our downtown. We also conduct on-going "Downtown Brainstorm" workshops throughout the year to solicit the community's feedback and ideas.

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Downtown Neighborhood Association of Elgin
2 Douglas Avenue
Elgin, IL 60120
(847) 488-1456

Tonya Hudson
Executive Director

Jason Pawlowski
Promotions Coordinator

Suzan Shipyor
Administrative Associate

Funeral Arrangements for Kathryn Keeney

Kathryn Keeney, mother of the late Patricia Keeney of Keeney's Sporting Goods & PK's Antiques in downtown Elgin, who succumbed to complications from cancer at the age of 62 on December 27, passed away last Friday, December 31 at the age of 90.

Visitation for Kathryn Keeney will take place on Wednesday, January 5 from 10:00-11:30 a.m. at O'Connor-Leetz Funeral Home at 364 Division Street. A funeral mass will be held at St. Joseph Catholic Church at 272 Division Street beginning at Noon.

Keeney's Sporting Goods & PK's Antiques at 19 Douglas Avenue will be closed indefinitely until further notice.

Keeney's to Open One Last Time Today

Keeney's Sporting Goods & PK's Antiques at 19 Douglas Avenue will open for business one final time today from 10AM-6PM.

Keeney's offers a wide assortment of sporting goods, equipment, U-46 gear, branded high school apparel, letterman jackets, fishing gear, winter apparel and much more. PK's Antiques, located in the basement of Keeney's, features a myriad of vintage and antique treasures including vintage clothing, hats, jewelry and accessories, antique glassware, barware, records, books and memorabilia.

This evening at 6PM, the community is invited to a public closing ceremony in front of Keeney's Sporting Goods to bid a fond farewell to an Elgin institution since 1883

After today, the store will be closed indefinitely until further notice.

Community Mourns the Loss of Downtown Shopkeeper

The Elgin community this week is mourning the loss of Patricia Keeney, owner of Keeney's Sporting Goods, an advocate for the downtown and well-known volunteer with the Downtown Neighborhood Association (DNA).

Keeney, 62, died Monday at Provena St. Joseph's Hospital from complications related to cancer.

“Pat cared deeply about downtown, the DNA and her community,” said Tonya Hudson, DNA executive director. “She was spirited, passionate and had a good heart.”

The Keeney family has been in business in downtown Elgin since 1883. The business began as a general store, and became a sporting goods store in its current location at 19 Douglas Avenue in 1945.

Keeney took over the business when her father passed away in 1993. Since then she added vintage clothing, jewelry and antiques to the shop’s offerings and became increasingly involved in the revitalization of downtown through the DNA.

Her volunteer work with the DNA included leadership roles on event committees such as the July 4th Parade, Window Wonderland, the DNA Awards Gala, and the Downtown Elgin Car Show. She also served on the DNA’s Board of Directors.

Friend and fellow DNA Board member, Karin Jones, said Keeney’s willingness to serve was an incredible asset to the organization.

“She was always ready to jump in and help, whether it was selling tickets at a carnival, asking for sponsorships or passing out flyers to fellow downtown business owners,” Jones said.

Jones was among the many volunteers who stepped forward to help run the store and care for her in her home when Keeney was diagnosed with cancer in November.

“Her courage through all of this was inspiring, as was the outpouring of support for her from the community,” Jones said.

DNA staff and volunteers ran a fundraising campaign to collect contributions to help Keeney with her bills. They also organized a vintage fashion fundraiser at Villa Verone in mid-December under the leadership of DNA founder and fellow downtown business owner, Ruth Munson. The group’s efforts raised about $8,000 just under three months.

For Jones, the success of the fundraising efforts had everything to do with what Pat had given to the community.

"When you met her, she touched your heart, and then she stayed there," Jones said. "She was just one of those people you will never forget.”

Visitation is Thursday, December 30 at O’Connor-Leetz Funeral Home at 364 Division Street in Elgin from 4-8PM.

Mass will be held Friday, December 31 at St. Joseph Catholic Church at 272 Division Street in Elgin beginning at 10AM.

New Downtown Gift Certificate 12 Days of Christmas Promotion

New Downtown Elgin Gift Certificates are here just in time for the holidays and we at the Downtown Neighborhood Association want to stuff your stockings with some extra goodies for those on your gift giving list as part of our 12 Days of Christmas Promotion.

Right now, buy $25-45 worth of downtown Elgin gift certificates and receive a free 15-piece Tower Building Jigsaw Puzzle for the kids to enjoy!

Buy $50-95 worth of gift certificates and receive an additional $5 gift certificate FREE!

Buy $100 or more in gift certificates and receive an additional $10 gift certificate FREE!

Downtown gift certificates are redeemable at nearly 70 downtown businesses.

Stay tuned to the DNA Blog and our Facebook page for more special offers from our 12 Days of Christmas Promotion.

Downtown Snow Removal Info for Winter 2010-11

Though the first significant snow of winter 2010 has yet to fall, the DNA is providing you with information to help you be prepared.

In general, the city will follow the same basic snow removal plan as 2009, when service in downtown was reduced from an enhanced level to the same level provided to other commercial districts throughout the city due to budget cuts and a reduced workforce. Property and business owners took back the responsibility of clearing their own sidewalks.

The "new" system worked well last year; there was much collaboration among neighbors in sharing the responsibility and cost of clearing their blocks. It is important that this collaboration continue this year so that we may provide our customers, tenants and employees with a pedestrian-friendly business district and neighborhood during the winter months.

As such, we have put together some information on how this collaborative snow removal process may occur this year:

• During or following a snow event, the city's first priority is to clear roads. Then crews are dispatched to other parts of the city, including downtown.

• The downtown crew's first priority is to clear the sidewalks around public buildings, such as city hall and the police station, as well as public parking lots and decks. The goal is to have these cleared by 8AM.

• Their next priority is to clear the crosswalks of intersections and other public spaces, such as DuPage Court, Festival Park and the sidewalks on the bridges.

• Once all these areas are cleared, the crew will then clear any remaining sidewalk areas until their shift ends at 3PM. The city also utilizes community restitution workers to supplement the workforce when possible. However, as we saw last year, this is often late in the day and the snow has been packed down by pedestrians, making it very difficult to remove with either equipment or material.

• We would like to suggest that downtown business and property owners have your sidewalks cleared from property line to curb line by 9AM following an overnight snow event, as this is the time that the majority of downtown is "open for business." This will help to reduce the areas of packed down snow, lessening the chances of it turning to impassable ice, and increasing our downtown's walkability and safety.

• You may pile your snow on the curb line using the row of brick pavers along the curb line as a guide. Please do not throw the snow into the street.

• The city's goal is to remove the piled snow from the curb line within 72 hours of a major event. This is usually done from 4 to 6AM. However, if we have frequent events within days of each other, the city's response time will be delayed, resulting in large mounds of snow on the curb line. The city will remove it - it will just take longer. The city also clears the mounds of snow that have accumulated in the street parking stalls and other areas throughout downtown between 4 and 6AM, so please be advised that street parking is prohibited during this time.

• We highly encourage you to talk with your neighbors about contracting a private snow removal company for your block or sharing in the responsibility of shoveling your block. This will help to alleviate one of the problems that we saw last year. For example, if 6 of the 8 properties on a block were cleared, the 2 that were not cleared reflected poorly not only on that business but on the whole block. The packed down snow that eventually became ice was not only uninviting but also very dangerous.

• We would like to make special mention to those realtors and brokers who represent downtown properties that are available for sale or lease. Please work with your clients to be sure that the sidewalks outside these properties are taken care of.

We have provided you with a resource list for local snow removal service companies below, should you decide to go that route.

Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to call Tonya Hudson at the DNA at (847) 488-1456 or Jim Bell at the City of Elgin at (847) 931-6124.


SNOW REMOVAL SERVICE RESOURCE LIST

We have put together a short list of snow removal service companies in Elgin who have the capabilities and availability to handle downtown sidewalk/ alley snow removal. The DNA is not endorsing any of these companies, nor do we have personal experience working with any of them. This is merely a resource list.

Brickman Group
31W620 Spaulding Rd
Elgin, IL 60120
847-741-4609

Monarch Nurseries
600 Spring Hill Ring Rd
West Dundee, IL 60118
847-428-7066

Tecza Environmental Group
12N422 Switzer Rd
Elgin, IL 60123
847-742-3320

Tovar Snow Professionals
31W377 Spaulding Rd
Elgin, IL 60120
847-695-0080

Downtown Elgin Window Wonderland Passports Now Available

It may be Black Friday today but on December 4 we may very well be dreaming of a white 2010 Downtown Elgin Window Wonderland: Miracle on the Streets - Presented by Provena St. Joseph Hospital.

The 2010 Window Wonderland Holiday Passports are now available to download and print out at http://www.downtownelgin.com.

Click here to download your passport now > > >

Several businesses are offering special promotions all week long so download your passport today and get a head start on all the great savings and specials you can enjoy in downtown Elgin!

Those that obtain 7 stamps on their passport will receive a free Photo with Santa during his visit to Window Wonderland from 1-5pm in the lobby of the Burritt Building at 25 S. Grove Avenue on December 4.

Passports, as well as ballots for the People's Choice Award in the 2010 Window Decorating Contest, will both be available to pick up at the Gail Borden Public Library at 270 S. Grove Avenue, The Centre of Elgin at 100 Symphony Way and many downtown businesses beginning next week!

Thank You

Dear Downtown Businesses, Residents & Property Owners,

As construction season 2010 comes to a close and the Thanksgiving holiday is upon us, the DNA would like to extend our sincere gratitude for your perseverance and patience throughout this phase of the project.

This season of construction was an extremely challenging one. And the recession certainly didn't make it any easier. We are looking forward to 2011, which we hope will be a year of recovery.

Thank you for your support and partnership as we continue to work together to revitalize downtown Elgin.

Have a safe and happy Thanksgiving,

The DNA Board of Directors & Staff

FROM THE DNA BOARD OF DIRECTORS . . .

"I just want to say thanks to all the business owners that get up every day in this tough economy in order to add something unique to our downtown. You truly make a difference. Thank you."

- Sean Hargadon

"I would like to thank all of you for your continued patronage of our downtown businesses through this difficult period of construction and recession. Our merchants, restaurants, bars, and services have needed your support to get through this, and you haven't let them down."

- Neal Pitcher

"I would like to thank all the downtown merchants, bars, restaurants and residents for having so much patience with all of the construction as well as the recession in 2010."

- Victor Gonzalez

"Thank You to all my neighbors for making downtown a real neighborhood. May next year bring construction free streets and sidewalks filled with customers."

- Steve Munson

"My heartfelt gratitude to all of you who share your time, talents, energy and efforts making our downtown what it is and what it will be!"

- Karin Jones

"Thanksgiving is the time to be truly grateful and to count our blessings. I would like to thank all of the downtown businesses, who have supported and worked together for a better downtown during these trying business conditions this year."

- Tom Brockner

Window Wonderland is Coming to Downtown!

While we may not know who is naughty and who is nice...although we have a pretty good idea...we are making a list (and checking it twice) of all the family fun events, activities and attractions on tap for Downtown Elgin Window Wonderland: Miracle on the Streets - Presented by Provena St. Joseph Hospital on Saturday, December 4 from 12-5pm.

Events and attractions include:

Santa's Crew Live Reindeer at Civic Plaza at the northwest corner of Highland and Douglas Avenues;

Live Nativity Scene with Petting Zoo at First United Methodist Church at 216 E. Highland Avenue;

Photos with Santa (1-5pm) in the lobby of the Burritt Building at 25 S. Grove Avenue;

Holiday Window Decorating Contest Judging throughout downtown Elgin;

Chestnut Roasting in front of Quiznos Subs at 59 Douglas Avenue;

Heated Holiday Trolley to shuttle Window Wonderland visitors around the various activities from 2-6pm;

Free Ice Skating from Noon-9pm at City-Skate at Elgin Civic Plaza behind City Hall at 150 Dexter Court;

Holiday Song and Dance at Villa Verone Ristorante Italiano at 13 Douglas Avenue, including holiday karaoke;

U.S. Postal Service Holiday Stamp Unveiling at 10 Douglas Avenue;

AND NEW THIS YEAR! Horse Drawn Carriage Rides up and down the streets of downtown Elgin for $5 per person (children 5 and under FREE) from Noon-3pm.

The day culminates with the City of Elgin’s Tree Lighting Ceremony, which includes a musical performance by Elgin Children's Chorus and a special appearance by Santa Claus on a fire truck, at Civic Plaza at 150 Dexter Court at 5pm. Families are invited to The Hemmens Cultural Center at 45 Symphony Way from 3-5pm to make ornaments to be placed on the tree.

The Weeklong Window Wonderland Holiday Passport features 20 “stops” at local businesses in downtown Elgin offering holiday activities, gifts or refreshments as well as discounts on merchandise. Those who collect a minimum of 7 passport stamps from November 27-December 4 will receive a free photo with Santa at the Burritt Building. Window Wonderland passports will be available beginning Monday, November 29 at downtown businesses, the Centre of Elgin, or Gail Borden Public Library to get a head start on voting for your favorite decorated window, collecting passport stamps and holiday dining and shopping in downtown Elgin!

In the spirit of the season, Window Wonderland will also feature a Coat Drive at Elgin Public House at 219 E. Chicago Street courtesy of Landin Chiropractic to benefit the Salvation Army as well as a collection site at 10 Douglas Avenue for the Community Crisis Center's Annual Holiday Toy Giveaway, taking place on December 16 at The Hemmens Cultural Center. All visitors who bring a new, unwrapped toy between $5-25 to the Window Wonderland collection site will receive a voucher for a free photo with Santa.

In addition to Saturday’s activities, the downtown Elgin area will also serve as host to several family-friendly activities all weekend long:

VEX Theatre will be presenting a new entertainment adventure for teens and adults. “Twist-a-Carol” features comedy, theater and song. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. on Friday December 3 and Saturday, December 4 with a matinee performance on Sunday, December 5. Tickets are $10. For reservations go to http://www.vextheatre.org/

Troupe America Inc. presents the musical comedy “Away in the Basement - A Church Basement Ladies Christmas”. A fun-filled Holiday Show for the whole family at The Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way in Elgin. Showtimes are 2:00pm & 7:30pm on Saturday, December 4 and 3:00pm on Sunday, December 5. Call 847.931.5590 or visit http://www.hemmens.org/ for more information.

On Saturday, December 4 at 1:00pm the Elgin Historical Society hosts A Holiday Tea at the Elgin History Museum at 360 Park Street featuring the Elgin Children’s Chorus. For more information, visit http://www.elginhistory.org/

Come visit the first monthly Urban Eden Market from 10am-3pm at “The Haight” at 166 Symphony Way where fresh seasonal goods & foods, baked bread, organic teas & spices, health & beauty, antiques & collectibles, renewable energy, sustainable technology, interactive art & crafts will be available for your pleasure. Visitors will also enjoy holiday jazz, steaming cider, hot chocolate, animals from Lord’s Park Zoo, a Kidz Zone, kids' group mural painting, book signings, the French Chef boogie from the Polar Express and a sneak peak of the new documentary “Grow Wise”. Be sure to come back at 5 p.m. for the Garden Party.

The DNA and the City of Elgin are also proud to again renew our partnership with Elgin Home for the Holidays – a collaborative effort consisting of over two dozen local not-for-profit organizations to promote the events, activities and volunteer opportunities available to Elgin residents during the holiday season. For a comprehensive listing of all Elgin holiday events throughout the months of November and December, visit http://www.elginhomefortheholidays.com/

The DNA would like to thank our 2010 Sponsors: Provena St. Joseph Hospital, Hampton, Lenzini & Renwick, Insure One, and the City of Elgin.

Downtown Elgin Construction Update - Week of November 15

Final Stages of Phase 4 Streetscape Work Continue

Phase 4 improvements of the CDB Streetscape Project will be winding down over the next few weeks. The remaining work includes street paving and crosswalk installation.

The City, DNA and TranSystems have come up with a plan to complete the majority of the remaining work by mid-November. Special attention has been given to allow as much access to local businesses as possible as we push through this final phase.

November 15-22

1. Closure of the south side of Highland to complete the second half of the crosswalks.
2. Closure of Spring Street from south of Division through the south side of Highland for the full installation of three crosswalks.
3. Closure of the northbound side of Grove Court. Access to and from Grove Court will only be allowed for postal deliveries to the Post Office and for post office vehicles. Public parking will be in the Civic Center parking lot only. Pedestrian access from the Civic Center parking lot will be available.
4. Full closure of Grove Avenue at the south side of Highland Avenue to allow construction of the full crosswalk.

Traffic Detour

Click here for this week's detour map > > >

Northbound traffic on Spring Street will be detoured east on Chicago Street to Villa/Center Street, north on Center Street to Division Street, west on Division to Spring Street where traffic can continue northbound on Spring Street. Motorists reaching the Spring Street / Grove Avenue / Fulton Street intersection and who wish to access Spring Street north of Division Street have the option of turning left on Grove Avenue and continuing north on Douglas Avenue to Division Street. At Division Street, turn right to Spring Street where you can then continue northbound on Spring Street.

Southbound traffic on Spring Street will be detoured west on Symphony Way to Douglas Avenue, south on Douglas Avenue to Chicago Street, east on Chicago Street to Spring Street where they can continue southbound on Spring Street.

Parking for and access to the Post Office will be from the Civic Center Parking lot.

Access to businesses on north Grove Avenue will be available from Chicago Street.

Crosswalks on Division Street (east and west of Spring Street) and all crosswalks on Center Street between Kimball St. and Dundee Avenue will be done in the spring.

The City's payment drop box has been temporarily relocated during construction. To access the drop box, enter the Civic Center Parking lot from Douglas Avenue. Vehicular access to the drop box will be available in a drive up lane set up in the parking area along the north side of this entrance. The drop box will remain in its temporary location until the new center planter/wall is built in Dexter Court.


Specific questions regarding the construction can be directed to Shelley Costello with TranSystems at 847-871-3185 or to Tonya Hudson with the DNA at 847-488-1456.

Weekly progress meetings for the Central Business District construction project are held on Thursdays at 8:30 a.m. at the construction office located at 201 E. Chicago Street. Business and property owners are invited to attend the first 15 minutes of the meeting if they have any questions or concerns regarding the construction.

For general information on the project, please contact Joe Evers at 847-931-5955 or visit the City's website at http://www.cityofelgin.org/ and click the Gettin' Around in Downtown icon.

Challenging Prognosis for Downtown Retailer Patricia Keeney

Patricia Keeney, owner of Keeney’s Sporting Goods in downtown Elgin, has been seriously ill for the past few months and has been hospitalized since October 26.

Downtown Neighborhood Association of Elgin (DNA) volunteers have been running Keeney’s store in her absence for the past three weeks, and the organization has been collecting personal contributions since Friday. Everyone has been awaiting test results to determine precisely what is ailing Keeney.

According to Keeney’s doctors today, the test results indicate that she has multiple myeloma, a type of plasma cell cancer. The doctors have started her on chemotherapy treatment and have not yet determined what future courses of treatment may be needed. It is uncertain how long she will be in the hospital, as she is suffering from other ailments such as kidney failure, that are likely related to the myeloma.

DNA will continue to staff her store with volunteers to keep her business open. DNA is also collecting contributions to help cover her medical bills and other expenses incurred from her hospitalization and any additional care and treatment that will be needed going forward.

DNA is also planning a fundraising event that will showcase and sell Keeney’s eclectic wares, from vintage dresses to letterman jackets and everything in between. The event is tentatively scheduled for mid-December at a downtown location yet to be determined.

Personal contributions may be made to the “Patricia Keeney Fund” and mailed to the DNA, 2 Douglas Avenue, Elgin, IL 60120. Contributions are not tax-deductible. For more information, please contact Tonya Hudson, DNA Executive Director, at (847) 488-1456 or thudson@downtownelgin.com.

Downtown Comes Together for One of Its Neighbors

The Downtown Neighborhood Association of Elgin and our downtown businesses invite you to join us in raising funds for Patricia Keeney, owner of Keeney’s Sporting Goods in downtown Elgin.

Patricia is very ill and will be in the hospital for quite some time. DNA volunteers have been running her store in her absence in an effort to keep her business afloat; however additional financial help from the community is very much needed.

You can help by making a cash donation or a check made out to “Patricia Keeney Fund”. Drop off your donation or mail it to the DNA, 2 Douglas Avenue, Elgin, IL 60120. Many downtown businesses also have collection jars ready to accept your donations. You can also help by shopping at Keeney’s Sporting Goods & PK’s Antiques, Monday-Saturday, 11AM-6PM.

For additional information, please contact Tonya Hudson at the DNA at (847) 488-1456 or email thudson@downtownelgin.com

Final Stages of Phase 4 Streetscape Work Underway

Phase 4 improvements of the CDB Streetscape Project will be winding down over the next few weeks. The remaining work includes street paving and crosswalk installation.

The City, DNA and TranSystems have come up with a plan to complete the majority of the remaining work by mid-November. Special attention has been given to allow as much access to local businesses as possible as we push through this final phase.

PAVING
Paving of the surface course on Dexter Court, Highland Avenue, Grove Court, Spring Street (between Highland Avenue and Division Street) and Center Street (between Kimball Street and Dundee Avenue) is scheduled for Friday, November 5. Paving will begin on Dexter Court and Grove Court in order to allow rush hour traffic on Highland to get through. Paving will be completed by Friday afternoon.

Temporary centerline striping will be in place until the weekend of November 13 -14 when all permanent striping will be installed.

CROSSWALKS
Once the paving work is complete, the final step in the Phase 4 streetscape improvements is the installation of the brick paver crosswalks. The plan is to complete the crosswalks at all intersections on Highland Avenue, working west to east from Riverside Drive to Center St., over the next two weeks, weather permitting. Crosswalks on Division Street, east and west of Spring Street and all crosswalks on Center Street between Kimball St. and Dundee Avenue will be done in the spring of 2011.

November 8 through 15:

1. Full closure of Dexter Court (main entrance to City Hall) in order to install 3 crosswalks. Entrances to the Civic Parking Lot at Division, Highland and Grove Ct. (Post Office) will remain open at all times.
2. Full closure of Douglas Avenue at the north and south sides of Highland to install two complete crosswalks on Douglas.
3. Closure of north side lane on Highland Avenue to complete the north half of the crosswalks on Highland at Riverside, Grove, Douglas, Spring and Center. The south lane of Highland will reamin open at all times.
4. Closure of west side of Grove Court (north of Highland) to complete southbound portion of crosswalk. Grove Court will remain open to two-way traffic.

Traffic Detour & Local Access for November 8-15:

Click here to download a detour map > >

Northbound traffic on Grove Avenue / Douglas Avenue will be detoured eastbound on Chicago Street, northbound on Spring Street, westbound on Division Street to rejoin northbound Douglas Avenue.

Local access to Douglas between Chicago Street and Highland Avenue will be available as well as local access to Douglas between Division Street and Highland Avenue. Motorists wishing to travel westbound on Highland Avenue may turn left from Spring Street and proceed westbound on Highland through the construction zone.

Southbound traffic on Douglas Avenue will be detoured eastbound on Division St. to Spring Street and then southbound on Spring Street to rejoin S. Grove Avenue at Fulton Street. Motorists wishing to access the Riverboat should use this route and then continue south past Fulton Street to the Riverboat.

Motorists wishing to travel westbound on Highland Avenue may turn from Spring Street and proceed westbound on Highland Avenue, as one lane of Highland will be open at all times.

November 15-22:

1. Closure of the south side of Highland to complete the second half of the crosswalks on Highland at Riverside, Grove, Douglas, Spring and Center. The north lane of Highland will remain open at all times.
2. Closure of Spring Street from south of Division through the south side of Highland for the full installation of three crosswalks.
3. Closure of the northbound side of Grove Court. Access to and from Grove Court will only be allowed for deliveries to the post office and for post office vehicles. Post office customer parking will be in the Civic Center parking lot only. Pedestrian access from the Civic Center parking lot will be available.
4. Full closure of Grove Avenue at the south side of Highland Avenue to allow construction of the full crosswalk.

Additional information on lane closures for the week of November 15 through November 22 will be available on November 11.

City Hall Drop Box Access

The City's payment drop box has been temporarily relocated during construction. To access the drop box, enter the Civic Center Parking lot from Douglas Avenue. Vehicular access to the drop box will be available in a drive up lane set up in the parking area along the north side of this entrance. The drop box will remain in its temporary location until the new center planter/wall is built in Dexter Court.

Specific questions regarding the construction can be directed to Shelley Costello with TranSystems at 847-871-3185 or to Tonya Hudson with the DNA at 847-488-1456.

Weekly progress meetings for the Central Business District construction project are held on Thursdays at 8:30 a.m. at the construction office located at 201 E. Chicago Street. Business and property owners are invited to attend the first 15 minutes of the meeting if they have any questions or concerns regarding the construction.

RSVP Now for Downtown Brainstorm

What do you love about your downtown?
What would you like to see changed?
How can you get involved to make it happen?

The Downtown Neighborhood Association (DNA) of Elgin invites the community to participate in Downtown Brainstorm - an interactive planning workshop about downtown Elgin and the DNA on:

Tuesday, November 16
6-8PM
Gail Borden Public Library
270 N. Grove Ave.
Downtown Elgin

This community brainstorming workshop will focus on existing and new downtown programs, projects and special events for 2011 in the areas of:

• arts initatives
• green initiatives
• new business development
• retail/restaurant promotions
• neighborhood outreach
• social media/marketing
• non-profit partnerships
• image enhancement

All individuals, organizations and businesses who currently partner with the DNA on special events and other programming are strongly encouraged to attend in order to discuss partnership plans for 2011.

The general public is invited to join in on these existing initiatives and to offer suggestions on new events, programming and partnerships for the coming year.

The workshop will also be presented via live video stream and chat at http://www.bocajump.com/.

For more information and to RSVP, please contact the DNA Office at (847) 488-1456, e-mail downtownelgin@gmail.com or RSVP online.

Rundown of Halloween Howl & Other Spooktacular Downtown Events This Weekend

The countdown is on to Saturday's Halloween Howl: A Nightmare on Chicago Street in downtown Elgin and we have pulled out all the stops to set the scene for a ghoulishly good time this weekend!

Here is the rundown for Elgin's Halloween Howl:

On Saturday, October 30 beginning at 1pm, the Downtown Neighborhood Association (DNA) of Elgin, the City of Elgin, The Hemmens Cultural Center and Elgin Symphony Orchestra present Elgin's Halloween Howl: A Nightmare on Chicago Street – a day of ghosts, goblins and good times for the whole family!

Here is the rundown of the day's events:

1:00PM – Registration for Costume Contest (open to kids ages 12 and under) on the south patio of The Hemmens, 45 Symphony Way, Kids Arts & Crafts inside, Kids Activities including Pumpkin Decorating, Face Painting, and "Thriller" Dance Demo throughout downtown Elgin.

Trick or Treating at Downtown Businesses will also begin at 1:00PM. The following is the complete list of participating businesses that are open to Trick or Treaters:

Al's Cafe & Creamery - 43 DuPage Court
Anderson's Trophies & Engraving - 27 N. Grove Avenue
Artistic Framing & Supplies - 25 N. Grove Avenue
Bangkok House & Shanghai Restaurant - 11 Douglas Avenue
Bella's Fashions - 156 E. Chicago Street
Central Barber Shop - 172 E. Chicago Street
The Centre of Elgin - 100 Symphony Way
Domani Cafe - 109 E. Highland Avenue
Douglas Street Sports Bar & Grill - 231 Douglas Avenue
Downtown Neighborhood Association - 2 Douglas Avenue
Elgin Antiques & Uniques - 203 E. Chicago Street
Elgin Books - 209 E. Chicago Street
Elgin Police Department - 151 Douglas Avenue
Elgin Public House - 219 E. Chicago Street
Fadez & Bladez - 9 N. Grove Avenue
Fusion Mind Body Studio - 221 E. Chicago Street
Girl Scouts - 167 E. Chicago Street (table in front)
Hilltop Skate Shop - 73 S. Grove Avenue
Keeney's Sporting Goods/PK's Antiques - 19 Douglas Ave.
Kim's Black Belt Academy - 5 S. Spring Street
La Puesta Del Sol - 165 E. Highland Avenue
Pastigel Bakery - 154 E. Chicago Street
Ravenheart Coffee & Cafe - 176 E. Chicago Street
The Razor's Edge - 55 Douglas Avenue
Riverside Chorus - 169 E. Chicago Street (table in front)
Salon Couture - 176 E. Chicago Street
Shockey Jewelers - 18 Douglas Avenue
Simple Balance Holistic Center - 221 E. Chicago St.
Steffen, Kelly & Steffen - 17 Douglas Avenue
Studio One Hair Salon - 151 E. Highland Avenue
Toom Toom Thai Restaurant - 23 S. Grove Avenue
Two Doors Down Antiques - 207 E. Chicago Street
YWCA - 220 E. Chicago Street

2:00PM – Halloween Storytelling by Gail Borden Public Library on the south patio of The Hemmens

3:00PM – Parade of Costumes/Awards for Best Costumes on the south patio of The Hemmens

3:30PM – ESO's Halloween Spooktacular Concert at The Hemmens. Tickets must be purchased in advance and are available via ESO Box Office at 847.888.4000 or at http://www.elginsymphony.org/

7:00PM – DNA's Night at Psychosis Haunted House at 200 N. Spring Street from 7pm-Midnight. A portion of the evening's proceeds will be donated to the DNA to fund downtown revitalization efforts.

8:00PM – The Rocky Horror Picture Show at The Hemmens. Adults 21 and older. Tickets are $7 and can be purchased by visiting http://www.hemmens.org/. Come out early to meet your Master of Scare-emonies WCIU-TV Channel 26's Svengoolie beginning at 6:30PM!

For a map outlining all Halloween Howl activities, click here > > >

To add to the Halloween ambience, Rediscover Records, part of Two Doors Down Antiques at 207 E. Chicago Street, will be providing the soundtrack for Trick or Treating as they will be spinning all your favorite Halloween tunes!

Also artist Dan Erman, whose work will be profiled on ABC-7's 190 North show on Halloween night, will be decorating several of the storefront windows along Chicago Street and Douglas Avenue.

Even the light poles along Chicago Street (as shown above) will be dressed in their Halloween finest – courtesy of our friends at ACME Design at 37 N. Union Street in Elgin.

And don't forget all the frightening fun that downtown Elgin's nightlife has to offer! On Friday and Saturday nights several downtown bars will be offering tricks and treats "Grown-Up Style" with Halloween parties, costume contests and more.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 29

NENA Monster Mash Bash
Douglas Street Sports Bar
231 Douglas Avenue
7-11PM
Raffles for 46" Plasma TV & iPod
Pumpkin Decorating & Costume Contests
Tickets $10
www.NENAofElgin.org

Party Animals (8-10:30PM) & Medusa’s Classic Halloween (10PM-4AM)
Medusa’s Nightclub
209 E. Chicago Street, 2nd Floor
Two Great Parties in One Night!
Tickets $10
www.DaveMedusa.com

Halloween Hot & Sexy Salsa Night
Villa Verone Ristorante Italiano
13 Douglas Avenue
9PM
Costume Contest
No Cover!
www.VillaVerone.net

Gasthaus Five Band Halloween Show
Gasthaus
15 N. Grove Avenue
9PM-2AM
Five great bands!
Tickets $6

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 30

Halloween Party Martini Style
Martini Room, 161 E. Chicago Street
6PM-3AM
Costume Contest
Photo Booth
www.MartiniRoomElgin.com

DSSB Halloween Party
Douglas Street Sports Bar & Grill
231 Douglas Avenue
7PM
Meet the 3 Olives Girls!
Live Music from 90's210
www.DouglasStreetSportsBar.com

EPH Pumpkin Carving Contest
Elgin Public House
219 E. Chicago Street
Win Great Prizes for Your "Best Dressed" Pumpkin
All Ages!
www.ElginPublicHouse.com

Hangout Halloween
Hangout Club & Grill
51 S. Grove Avenue
Costume Contest
Live Music
http://sporthangout.com

Red Bar Halloween Party
Red Bar Winery & Bistro
74 S. Grove Avenue
Harvest Moon Wine
Great Food & Drink Specials
www.RedBarWinery.com

'Downtown Brainstorm' Set for November 16 at Gail Borden Library

The Downtown Neighborhood Association of Elgin (DNA) invites the community to participate in Downtown Brainstorm – an interactive planning workshop about downtown Elgin and the DNA on Tuesday, November 16 from 6-8PM at the Gail Borden Public Library at 270 S. Grove Avenue.

The purpose of the workshop is to engage the public about (1) what existing downtown events and programming they enjoy and value most; (2) what downtown events and programming they would like to see added or changed in the next year; and (3) how they can get involved with the City, the DNA and our partner organizations to make an impact on the revitalization of their downtown.

All individuals, organizations and businesses who currently partner with the DNA on special events and other programming are strongly encouraged to attend in order to discuss partnership plans for 2011.

The general public is invited to join in on these existing initiatives and to offer suggestions on new events, programming and partnerships for the coming year.

For more information and to RSVP, please contact the DNA Office at (847) 488-1456 or downtownelgin@gmail.com.

Downtown Elgin Construction Update - Week of October 25

Metra Track Reconstruction Scheduled for Completion on October 28

No work will take place on Highland Avenue from October 20 through October 27 while METRA has Kimball Street closed. Assuming that Kimball Street is re-opened by Thursday, October 28, work will begin on adjusting drainage structures in preparation of the new surface course. Placement of surface is scheduled for the week of November 1, weather permitting, followed by placement of the permanent pavement striping later that week.

Brick paver installation and landscaping work will continue on Dexter Court as well as construction of the new planter and decorative wall.

If weather conditions remain favorable, construction of the brick paver crosswalks will begin after the surface has been placed and would be completed prior to Thanksgiving.

The City's payment drop box has been temporarily relocated during construction. To access the drop box, enter the Civic Center Parking lot from Douglas Avenue. Vehicular access to the drop box will be available in a drive up lane set up in the parking area along the north side of this entrance. The drop box will remain in its temporary location until the new center planter/wall is built in Dexter Court.

This phase of the CBD Streetscape project includes Highland Avenue from Riverside Drive to Center Street, Grove Court, Spring Street from Highland Avenue to Division Street, Dexter Court and Center Street from Kimball Street to Dundee Avenue.

The Scene: Halloween Fun "Grown-Up" Style

Listen up "mummies" and "deadlies"! After you've laid the boys and ghouls to rest, call the babysitter, put on your finest Halloween attire (or just cut up a bed sheet - it's really your call) and set your sights on downtown Elgin this Halloween weekend! It's time for Trick or Treating grown-up style!

Check out all the Halloween fun in store for you this weekend in this edition of "The Scene":

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 29

NENA Monster Mash Bash
Douglas Street Sports Bar & Grill
231 Douglas Avenue
7-11PM
Costume Contest for Cash Prizes, Raffle for 46” Plasma TV & iPod, Pumpking Decorating, $10 Admission

Party Animals (8-10:30PM) & Medusa’s Classic Halloween (10PM-4AM)
Medusa’s Nightclub
209 E. Chicago St.
Two Amazing Parties! One Night! $10 Admission, 3 Levels of Fun, Costume Contests, 2 Dance Floors!

Hot & Sexy Salsa Night
Villa Verone Ristorane Italiano
13 Douglas Avenue
Beginning at 9PM
Hot and Sexy Salsa Night! Plus Costume Contest with Prizes for Sexiest, Spookiest and Most Creative Costumes!

Five Band Halloween Show
Gasthaus
15 N. Grove Avenue
9PM-2AM
After The Fight, Voice of Addiction, The Regals, Gunner’s Daughter, and Red Channel! $6 Admission (Ages 21+)

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 30

Halloween Party Martini Style
Martini Room
161 E. Chicago Street
6PM-3AM
Best Costume Contest for Cash Prizes, Photo Booth by Black Canvas Photography and Drink Specials All Night Long!

DSSB Halloween Party
Douglas Street Sports Bar & Grill
231 Douglas Avenue
Starts at 7PM
Meet the 3 Olives Girls! Enjoy Spooky Drink Specials! Plus Saturday Nite Band: 90's210! Come Dance and Party!

Pumpkin Carving Contest
Elgin Public House
219 E. Chicago Street
Judging All Day Saturday!
Carve your Pumpkin & bring it to EPH on Thursday or Friday for judging on Saturday! Prizes for Scariest, Funniest, Most Original & Best Overall!

Hangout Halloween
Hangout Club & Grill
51 S. Grove Avenue
Costume Contest with Cash Prizes and Enjoy “My Lazy Elephant” Classic Rock Band!

DNA Awards Gala Wrap-Up & Kudos

Thank you to everyone who came out to celebrate downtown Elgin and recognize the individuals and businesses who helped contribute to its continued revitalization this past year at the Downtown Neighborhood Association (DNA) of Elgin's 2010 Awards Gala - Presented by TranSystems, Landmark Contractors and J&T Services, Inc. on Thursday, October 14th at the Grand Victoria Casino in downtown Elgin.

The DNA would again like to congratulate our 2010 Award Recipients:

Art for All - Extraordinary Volunteer

Elgin Antiques & Uniques - Outstanding Member

La Puesta Del Sol - Excellence in Business

The Razor's Edge - Remarkable Renovation

Ina Dews - Above & Beyond

Neal Pitcher - President's Award

In keeping with our 1940's Bright Lights, Big City theme, we also awarded a "Best Dressed Guy and Gal" award which went to Tony Aiello and Jennifer Benson.

The DNA would like to extend heartfelt thanks to the following individuals, businesses and organizations for their contributions to the Awards Gala:

- "Cat's Meow" Presenting Sponsors - TranSystems; Landmark Contractors; and J&T Services, Inc.;

- "Big Cheese" Sponsor - Grand Victoria Casino;

- "Hotsy-Totsy" Sponsors - City of Elgin and Elgin Community College;

- Table Sponsors - Shales McNutt Construction; Ravenheart Cafe; Rauschenberger Partners, LLC; Villa Verone Ristorante Italiano; Kirkpatrick, Jones & Herzog Insurance; and The Dominguez Family;

- Tim and Sue Solarz from Spacetaste Gallery, in partnership with Elgin Antiques & Uniques and Two Doors Down Antiques, for coordinating the beautiful artifacts and vintage-inspired art gallery consisting of local art from Benjamin Downs, Clark Bending, Dave Metzger, Jeffree Hansen, Larry Pepper and Natalie Shadel;

- Our volunteers who worked late into the night this past Monday to put together our beautiful table centerpieces and Rich Wagner from Rediscover Records for his donation of the vintage records which comprised those table centerpieces;

- Our decorating volunteers, led by Barb Keselica from the City of Elgin and Patrick Raddatz and Jen Prise from The Hemmens, who worked at breakneck speed to transform the large Fox Valley Room at Grand Victoria Casino into the breath-taking backdrop it became for our gala;

- The Elastik Band for providing the eclectic soundtrack for the evening;

- Andre Santore and Yuliana Chepurna from Fred Astaire Dance Studio in Barrington for lighting up the dance floor with their amazing dance numbers;

- Amy Gregorio, Mrs. Illinois America 2010 who served as Mistress of Ceremonies for the evening;

- Steve Thoren who masterfully emceed our cocktail hour;

- Barry Danielson for donating his gorgeous crimson 1940 Buick which was prominently displayed outside the walkway entrance to the casino;

- George Stefely from Artistic Framing & Supplies for matting and framing our awards and Dave Anderson from Anderson's Invitations & Trophies for engraving the nameplates;

- Lisa Sauter and Denise Hibbard who were our cigarette girls and combined sold better than 60 raffle tickets during our cocktail hour;

- All Dressed Up Costumes in Batavia for supplying our cigarette girls' costumes;

- Northeast Neighborhood Association (NENA) for their raffle prize donation of complimentary passes to their Monster Mash Bash on October 29th at Douglas Street Sports Bar & Grill

- Patricia Keeney from Keeney's Sporting Goods/PK's Antiques for donating some of our 1940's props;

- Red Bar Winery, Elgin Public House, Villa Verone Ristorante Italiano and Martini Room for hosting downtown Elgin After-Parties immediately after the Gala;

- Awards Gala Planning Committee led by DNA Executive Director Tonya Hudson and committee members Deb Anderson, Armida & Joseph Dominguez, Karin Jones, Patricia Keeney, Barb Keselica, Jason Pawlowski and Johnny Placeres;

- DNA Board of Directors led by Tom Brockner - President, Victor Gonzalez - Vice President, Neal Pitcher - Treasurer, Karin Jones - Secretary, Sean Hargadon, Patricia Keeney, Jerri McCue, Steve Munson, George Hahne and Geoffrey Sands;

- The DNA Staff - Tonya Hudson - Executive Director, Jason Pawlowski - Promotions Coordinator and Suzan Shipyor - Administrative Associate;

- All of the volunteers who sold 50/50 raffle tickets as well as everyone who purchased raffle tickets to support DNA's continued revitalization efforts in downtown Elgin;

And a HUGE thank you to everyone who came out in their finest formal attire to enjoy a magical evening in downtown Elgin. Without all of you and your continued valuable support, the DNA's Awards Gala would not have been possible!

Click here to view or purchase photos from the 2010 DNA Awards Gala > > >

Downtown Elgin Construction Update - Week of October 18

Metra Track Reconstruction October 20-27

Kimball Street is scheduled to be closed the week of October 20-27 for the reconstruction of the METRA tracks. During the time of this closure, there will be no work on Highland Avenue. Work on placing the final asphalt surface and permanent pavement markings will take place after Kimball Street re-opens.

Dexter Court Nearly Complete; E. Highland Structure Adjustment, Surface Removal to Begin

Installation of brick pavers continues on the south side of Highland Avenue between Spring Street and Center Street and between Douglas Avenue and Grove Avenue. This work will continue through October 19. No work will take place on Highland Avenue from October 20 through October 27 while METRA has Kimball Street closed.

Brick paver installation and landscaping work will continue on Dexter Court as well as construction of the new planter and decorative wall.

Structure adjustment is scheduled to begin on October 28 in preparation for the placement of the final surface course on Highland Avenue. Surface placement is scheduled for the week of November 1. This schedule is dependent on Kimball Street re-opening and, of course, weather conditions. If weather conditions remain favorable, construction of the brick paver crosswalks will begin after the surface has been placed and would be completed prior to Thanksgiving.

The City's payment drop box has been temporarily relocated during construction. To access the drop box, enter the Civic Center Parking lot from Douglas Avenue. Vehicular access to the drop box will be available in a drive up lane set up in the parking area along the north side of this entrance. The drop box will remain in its temporary location until the new center planter/wall is built in Dexter Court.

This phase of the CBD Streetscape project includes Highland Avenue from Riverside Drive to Center Street, Grove Court, Spring Street from Highland Avenue to Division Street, Dexter Court and Center Street from Kimball Street to Dundee Avenue.

* * * * * * * * *

Weekly progress meetings for the Central Business District construction project are held on Thursdays at 8:30 a.m. at the construction office located at 201 E. Chicago Street.

Business and property owners are invited to attend the first 15 minutes of the meeting if they have any questions or concerns regarding the construction.

Specific questions regarding the construction can be directed to Shelley Costello with TranSystems at 847-871-3185.

The Scene: Jam Packed Live Music Weekend

It's yet another busy weekend for the live music and entertainment scene in downtown Elgin.

Lots of popular downtown hotspots have some great live bands playing this weekend while our two premiere performing arts venues - The Hemmens Cultural Center and the Elgin Art Showcase - are sure to be packed for their live performances as well.

Check it out:

Wednesday, October 13

Martini Room at 161 E. Chicago Street is hosting an Art Show featuring the Mosaic artwork of two sisters, Annette and Claudia Lenze. These intricate expressions of their lives and travels through the piecing together of tiles will be on display at Martini Room for 3-4 weeks so come out and enjoy!

Thursday, October 14

Although registration for our DNA Awards Gala that night at the Grand Victoria Casino is now closed, you can still join in on all the "hotsy-totsy" good times immediately afterwards at four unique downtown Elgin After-Parties!

Elgin Public House at 219 E. Chicago Street offers up some "Late Night Sparkle" at their after-party. Mention the DNA Awards Gala and receive $2 off of a Proseco and enjoy the party upstairs at Pub 217.

Red Bar Winery & Bistro at 74 S. Grove Avenue rolls out the red carpet for a Salsa Party with DJ Mambo! Enjoy specials on Mojitos, Sangria and well drinks as well as a Tapas menu available late!

It's open mic night at Villa Verone Ristorante Italiano at 13 Douglas Avenue. Be a superstar on the mic (just like owner Pietro Verone), enjoy a cocktail as well as VV's star-studded finger food.

Flash back to the 80's and 90's at Martini Room with Retro Night and enjoy $6 Guava Martinis and Raspberry Martinis and $4 Bomb Squads and Captain Morgan Mixers.

Friday, October 15

Douglas Street Sports Bar & Grill at 231 Douglas Avenue offers up another round of Fantastic Friday which includes Free Happy Hour Buffet from 5-7pm, a Fish Fry for $8 and Live Music beginning at 8pm!

Hangout Club & Grill (formerly Mad Maggies) at 51 S. Grove Avenue has two great classic rock bands playing all the songs you grew up with under one roof! Raven opens for He Said, She Said beginning at 10pm. Great classic rock at a classic new venue in downtown Elgin.

Kick up your heels as Villa Verone presents Hot & Sexy Salsa Night! Enjoy the hottest "salsa-riffic" tunes including Salsa, Bachata, Cha Cha, Cumbia and more! Must be 21 or older - STRICT DRESS CODE WILL BE ENFORCED! No baggy jeans, baseball caps, white t-shirts or gym shoes.

Saturday, October 16

Hangout Club & Grill welcomes The Moods - Motown classics choreographed right out of the 60's! Enjoy the outfits, the songs... go back to a time when VW beetles, the prom, leisure suits, and pony tails were all the rage! Show starts at 7:30pm. Immediately following the show, enjoy one of the top classic rock bands in the area as Trash Martini will be playing songs you know by heart!

At 8pm, Elgin Public House brings some culture to downtown with their Music & Arts Fest. Art aficionados can come to peruse artwork from six local independent artists and stay for live music performances from Pitchy and the 44's, Into the Real and the acoustic stylings of Andrew Pelletier.

Villa Verone welcomes Elgin's very own The Reverends for a Saturday Night "live" performance sure to be a hit beginning at 8pm!

Elgin Symphony Orchestra and Time for Three performs American Virtuosity at The Hemmens Cultural Center at 45 Symphony Way. Encounter the group that is energizing concert halls across the nation, and have a story you can tell all of your friends! The category-shattering trio Time for Three blends their style of classical, bluegrass, gypsy, jazz and sheer virtuosity with the ESO. Performance dates/times are Saturday at 8pm and Sunday at 3:30pm.

DNA 2010 Awards Winners Announced

The DNA is pleased to announce our 2010 DNA Award Winners – to be presented at the DNA Awards Gala on Thursday, October 14 at the Grand Victoria Casino.

Volunteer of the Year
Art for All
For their amazing work on the Art & Soul on the Fox/Passegiata event in downtown July 31-August 1.

Excellence in Business Success
La Puesta del Sol
For their perseverance as an independent, family-run restaurant that has built up a loyal clientele over their past 14 years in downtown

Outstanding Member/Partner
Elgin Antiques & Uniques
For their overwhelmingly positive, “pro-downtown” attitude and their ongoing participation in DNA activities and promotions

Remarkable Renovation
The Razor’s Edge
For the truly remarkable renovation and restoration of the interior of their salon

Above & Beyond
Ina Dews
For a decade of volunteer service as the manager of the Downtown Elgin Harvest Market

A special President’s Award will also be awarded that evening.

Congratulations to all the winners!

Would you like to show your support for the winners? Tickets may be reserved for the event until Sunday, October 10 at 5PM at http://events.r20.constantcontact.com/register/event?oeidk=a07e308ktwwb93fa7a0&llr=zwlt76bab

Downtown Elgin Construction Update - Week of 10/11

Dexter Court Nearly Complete; E. Highland Surface Removal to Begin

Reconstruction of Dexter Court winds down the week of October 11 with the milling of the existing asphalt surface (Monday) and placement of the first course of the new asphalt surface (Tuesday or Wednesday). Dexter Court will be closed for a period of time while the asphalt is being placed and allowed to cool.

Surface removal on Highland Avenue between Riverside Drive and Center Street, on Spring Street between Highland Avenue and Division Street, and on Center Street between Kimball Street and Dundee Avenue takes place this week, as well as placement of the first course of the new asphalt surface.

Installation of brick pavers continues on the south side of Highland Avenue between Spring Street and Center Street.

The City's payment drop box has been temporarily relocated during construction. To access the drop box, enter the Civic Center Parking lot from Douglas Avenue. Vehicular access to the drop box will be available in a drive up lane set up in the parking area along the north side of this entrance. The drop box will remain in its temporary location until the new center planter/wall is built in Dexter Court.

This phase of the CBD Streetscape project includes Highland Avenue from Riverside Drive to Center Street, Grove Court, Spring Street from Highland Avenue to Division Street, Dexter Court and Center Street from Kimball Street to Dundee Avenue.

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Metra Track Reconstruction October 20-27

Kimball Street is scheduled to be closed the week of October 20-27 for the reconstruction of the METRA tracks. During the time of this closure, there will be no work on Highland Avenue. Work on placing the final asphalt surface and permanent pavement markings will take place after Kimball Street re-opens.

Lets Spice It Up! Spice Truck Returns to Downtown Elgin Harvest Market

The Lets Spice It Up! Spice Truck pays a return visit to downtown Elgin as the 2010 Downtown Elgin Harvest Market - Presented by Alexian Brothers concludes its landmark tenth season this Thursday, October 7 at our October First Thursday Harvest Market from 10am-6pm at the Civic Parking Lot at the intersection of Highland and Douglas Avenues near City Hall.

Michael and Lisa will be on hand with an entire truckload of all of your favorite dried spices, soup bases, sauces, salsas and much more! For more information about Let's Spice It Up! visit their website at http://www.letsspiceitup.com/

Other activities confirmed for Thursday include:

* Musical performance by Fox River Trio
* Terrifying costumed characters from Psychosis Haunted House - Elgin's newest Halloween attraction - will turn the Harvest Market into a Haunted Market

Construction Update: Kimball Street Bridge Patching Begins Today

Street patching work is scheduled to begin on Kimball Street Bridge on Monday, October 4 and will continue for 3-4 days, depending on weather. There will be one lane open in each direction during the patching activity.

"All indications right now show that the work should be wrapped up by Friday, October 8," commented David Lawry, Public Services Director. "We know that motorists have been faced with a lot of obstacles over the past couple of months downtown and we plan to make this as seamless as possible."

The patching is scheduled to be conducted in between rush hour times, starting at 9:30 am and will wrap up by 2:00 pm each day. Motorists are reminded to use caution in construction zones.

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Reconstruction of Dexter Court continues through the week of October 4, 2010. Dexter Court will be closed for two weeks to allow for reconstruction. Access to City Hall is available through the Civic Center parking lot with access from Douglas Avenue, Highland Avenue and Grove Court.

The City's payment drop box has been temporarily relocated during construction. To access the drop box, enter the Civic Center Parking lot from Douglas Avenue. Vehicular access to the drop box will be available in a drive up lane set up in the parking area along the north side of this entrance.

The closure of Dexter Court is expected to last until Monday, October 11.

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Installation of brick paver sidewalks continues on the south side of Highland Avenue from Grove Avenue to Douglas Avenue and from Spring Street to Center Street.

Lowering of drainage and utility structure lids will take place during this week as well in preparation for removal of the existing asphalt surface. Milling of the existing asphalt surface and installation of the first layer of the new asphalt surface throughout this phase of the project is expected to begin the week of October 11.

Kimball Street is scheduled to be closed for a week during October for the reconstruction of the Metra tracks. During the time of this closure, there will be no work on Highland Avenue. Work on placing the final asphalt surface and permanent pavement markings will take place after Kimball Street re-opens.

This phase of the CBD Streetscape project includes Highland Avenue from Riverside Drive to Center Street, Grove Court, Spring Street from Highland Avenue to Division Street, Dexter Court and Center Street from Kimball Street to Dundee Avenue.

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Weekly progress meetings for the Central Business District construction project are held on Thursdays at 8:30 a.m. at the construction office located at 201 E. Chicago Street. Business and property owners are invited to attend the first 15 minutes of the meeting if they have any questions or concerns regarding the construction.

Specific questions regarding the construction may be directed to Shelley Costello with TranSystems at 847-871-3185.

For general information on the project, please contact Joe Evers at 847-931-5955 or visit the City's website at www.cityofelgin.org and click the Gettin' Around in Downtown icon.

Deadline to RSVP for 2010 DNA Awards Gala Extended

Last call!

If you have not yet submitted your RSVP for the 2010 Downtown Neighborhood Association Awards Gala - Presented by TranSystems, JCT Services, Inc. and Landmark Contractors, Inc., please do so now! Deadline to submit your RSVP or remit payment has been extended to Friday, October 8.

Individual tickets are $60 each ($50 for current DNA members) and sponsored tables of 8 are $600 each ($500 for current DNA members).

CLICK HERE TO RSVP > > >

It's going to be the Cat's Meow!

Please join us for a hotsy-totsy night on the town at the Downtown Neighborhood Association's Awards Gala on Thursday, October 14 from 6-9 PM at the Grand Victoria Casino at 250 S. Grove Avenue in downtown Elgin.

In typical DNA fashion, we will be celebrating in style with a 1940's-themed night of fun, festivities and fundraising. There will be a live jazz band, ballroom dancers, cocktail dresses (and cocktails), black ties, awards, accolades, an art gallery, and after-parties in downtown. Cocktail dresses and tuxedos are encouraged, and the best-dressed 1940's guy and gal will be rewarded.

Speaking of style, the DNA is also pleased to announce that our Special Guest Emcee for the Gala is Mrs. Illinois America 2010 Amy Gregorio.

Amy was crowned Mrs. Illinois America this past July. She recently returned from Tuscon, Arizona where she competed at the 2010 Mrs. America Pageant and finished 2nd runner up.

An Emmy nominated TV journalist, professionally known as “AJ Sterling”, she was voted ”Best Reporter,” by the Associated Press. Her stories have appeared on CBS, CNN, and Fox while working in Nashville, Indianapolis and Chicago. She has been honored to meet four US Presidents and a multitude of other leaders while reporting on many historical events.

Covering Super Bowls, riots and flying with the Red Barons have been good practice for life as a mom. She and her husband, John, have a 4 1/2 year old son and a 2-year-old daughter and live in Northfield with their cat Mac. When not running after the kids, she runs for charity and climbs Chicago ’s tallest buildings. Amy is also a court appointed child advocate for abused and neglected children through CASA and involved with other child-centered organizations.

Route 31 & E. Highland Avenue Intersection Now Open

Access to Route 31 from E. Highland Avenue through downtown Elgin is now open. Please use caution as there are still construction barricades in this area prohibiting access to Highland Avenue west of Route 31. The traffic signals at Highland and Route 31 are now in operation.

The City’s Highland Avenue Sewer Separation project continues on W. Highland Avenue between Route 31 and Jackson Avenue. The underground work is complete, and restoration is expected to be complete within the next 2 weeks on W. Chicago St and the valley between Jackson and Lynch, weather permitting.

The City’s Highland Avenue Reconstruction project, which includes the complete removal and replacement of pavement, curb and gutter on Highland Avenue between Route 31 and the split at Larkin Avenue, is expected to be complete by late-October, weather permitting.

For more information on these projects, please contact Joe Evers, city engineer, at (847) 931-5955 or jevers@cityofelgin.org.

2010 Elgin Pub Crawl Raffle & Passport Drawing Results

Thank you Pub Crawlers for packing ten great downtown Elgin venues on Saturday, September 25th for the 2010 Elgin Pub Crawl.

Not only did the event bring hundreds of people into the downtown area but Pub Crawl raffle ticket sales as well as Pub Crawl t-shirts sales at Martini Room helped raise over $2,500 for Senior Services Associates, The John E. McCue Memorial Scholarship Fund and the Downtown Neighborhood Association of Elgin.

The winners of the Charity Raffle prizes were as follows:

Marta Keller - iPad from Senior Services Associates
Kris Walsted - $250 Cash from John E. McCue Memorial Scholarship Fund
Bob Knizer - $50 A-1 Cab Gift Certificate
Steph Alters - $50 A-1 Cab Gift Certificate
Rene Mendez - $50 A-1 Cab Gift Certificate
Renee Merrill - $50 A-1 Cab Gift Certificate
Tom Smith - $50 A-1 Cab Gift Certificate

The winners of the Budweiser Pub Crawl Passport drawing were as follows:

Greg Tucker - Michelob Mountain Bike
Larry Pahl - Budweiser Coleman Cooler
Bernice Hernandez - Amber Bock Golf Bag
Carolyn Buhrow - iPod Tower Speakers

Winners will be notified by phone and by e-mail. All winners must claim their prizes by October 15th. We will redraw winners for any unclaimed prizes on October 18th.

The Pub Crawl Committee and the Downtown Neighborhood Association would like to thank our ten participating downtown Elgin venues:

The AfterSet
158 Symphony Way
847.608.7570

Douglas Street Sports Bar & Grill
231 Douglas Avenue
847.695.5659

Elgin Public House
219 E. Chicago Street
847.468.8810

Gasthaus Zur Linde
15 N. Grove Avenue
847.695.8828

Hangout Club & Grill (formerly Mad Maggies)
51 S. Grove Avenue
847.531.5883

La Puesta Del Sol
165 E. Highland Avenue
847.468.1416

Martini Room
161 E. Chicago Street
847.741.0349

Medusa's
209 E. Chicago Street
818.342.9877

Red Bar Winery
74 S. Grove Avenue
847.695.1659

Villa Verone Ristorante Italiano
13 Douglas Avenue
847.742.0263

Thanks also to Tim McCay at City Beverage/Budweiser for your generous donation of passport prizes, signage, flyers, passports, lanyards, raffle tickets; thank you to A-1 Cab Dispatch for donating the discount fare coupons to ensure everyone got home safely as well as the gift certificate raffle prizes; and thank you to the volunteers who worked late into the night selling raffle tickets at each of the venues.

Elgin's Halloween Howl

On Saturday, October 30, downtown Elgin is the place to be for all your pre-Halloween fun as we present Elgin's Halloween Howl - A Nightmare on Chicago Street. Bring the "boos" and "ghouls" out for an afternoon of family fun and then "mummy" and "deadly" can return that evening for some ghoulish, grown-up good times!

Here is a rundown of the day's activities:

1 PM - Costume Contest (for kids 12 and under) Registration at Elgin Civic Plaza at 150 Dexter Court; Trick or Treating and Kids Activities (including Pumpkin Decorating, Face Painting, "Thriller" Dance Demo and more) on Downtown Elgin Streets; and Kids Arts and Crafts in the lower level of The Hemmens at 45 Symphony Way.

2 PM - Storytelling courtesy of Gail Borden Library at Civic Plaza

3 PM - Parade of Costumes/Awards at Elgin's Civic Plaza

3:30 PM - Elgin Symphony Orchestra’s Halloween Spooktacular Concert at The Hemmens Cultural Center at 45 Symphony Way, Tickets: $10/kids, $15/adults. Visit http://www.elginsymphony.org/ for tickets.

8 PM - Rocky Horror Picture Show - The Hemmens Cultural Center, Tickets: $7 - ADULTS ONLY! Visit http://www.hemmens.org/ for tickets. Come out early to The Hemmens to meet your Master of “Scare”-emonies WCIU Channel 26 - The U’s Svengoolie!

Afterwards, be sure to visit Psychosis Haunted House, Elgin's newest Halloween attraction, at 200 Symphony Way for a quality haunt or stay for all the frighteningly fun times that downtown Elgin's nightlife has to offer!

Elgin's Halloween Howl - A Nightmare on Chicago Street is a joint venture between the City of Elgin, the Downtown Neighborhood Association of Elgin, the Elgin Symphony and The Hemmens Cultural Center.