Saturday, September 13, 2008

Los Hermanos Rosarios at The Centre

Fiesta Salsa was canceled but the main act, Los Hermanos Rosarios, will perform on Saturday, September 13th at The Centre of Elgin, 100 Symphony Way. Admission is $15. Food will be available for purchase. Doors open at 7 pm.

Fiesta Salsa and Parade Cancelled

 
Fiesta Salsa and the Hispanic Heritage Parade have been cancelled. See www.cityofelgin.org for more information. Organizers and trying to find an indoor venue for the main act to perform tonight. Check this blog for updates.

Thursday, September 04, 2008

Celebrating Ten Years of Downtown Revitalization

Justin Timberlake may have brought sexy back. But the Downtown Neighborhood Association is bringing classy back.

On Thursday, October 2 the DNA will celebrate 10 years of downtown revitalization at our 10th Anniversary Gala at the Grand Victoria Casino.

Let me assure you, this is not just another awards dinner. I think I have been to 113 of those dinners this year alone. This is a gala. It’s long dresses and high heels, bow ties and cuff links, champagne and caviar. Okay, there’s no caviar – that would be a little too showy. This is still Elgin – we make fun of people who eat caviar.

If you care about downtown Elgin, you should be there. Tickets are only $55 per person and include the Grand Victoria’s renowned buffet. You will enjoy a performance by a string ensemble of the Elgin Symphony Orchestra during the complimentary hour of cocktails and hors devours. Local attorney and jazz pianist Loren Golden will also take to the keys through the evening.

Of course, there will be honors and accolades bestowed on our most devoted DNA friends who have given countless hours of time and effort to the cause of downtown revitalization. Visual aids will be in full effect to showcase the dramatic changes and improvements to the downtown area over the past decade.

Though the gala is for a great cause, it is also a great excuse to grab a date, get dressed up to the nines and enjoy your downtown.

Ladies, make your appointments now at a downtown salon for manis, pedis, hair and makeup. Many of our salons are putting together special packages for the occasion.

Guys, don’t worry – this is a black-tie optional event, so tuxedos are not necessary. A nice black suit will do just fine.

We hope you will join us in celebrating ten years of downtown revitalization at the DNA’s 10th Anniversary Gala. To reserve your tickets, please call us at (847) 488-1456 or email jbenson@elginil.org.

Downtown Elgin Top 10 List - September 4, 2008


Top 10 List










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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.

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.

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.

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

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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. Looks like dancing will be big here based on the size of the dance floor and the lights, fog machine, etc.
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

The Alley of Art's first week had music and art along with great weather.
Margot Seigle explains how A'i jewelry is handcrafted by Cofan women in the Ecuadorian Amazon.

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

What?
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

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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.

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.

Downtown Elgin Top 10 List - August 6, 2008











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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

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.
Three of the Elgin Cycling Classic committee members, John Steffen, Betsy Couture and Darlene Hulin take time for a photo op.

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 was a beautiful evening to share with friends and create a Ravina feel. Next year, candelabras. With 12 food vendors plus beer, wine and Mojitos a good time was had by all. Those arriving early were entertained by the talented performers of Elgin OPERA.
This photo can't do the post concert fireworks justice, but gives you the sense of how up close and personal they were. Head over to the Lovin Elgin blog for video and more commentary.

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

Watch the video here!

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.