Elgin 4th of July Parade People's Choice Award Winner Announced

Congratulations to Spring Hill Gymnastics who were selected the winners of the 2011 Elgin 4th of July Parade People's Choice Award as the parade unit that represented the best-of-the-best in overall presentation in last week's parade.

Over 200 votes were cast at DowntownElgin.com over the week-long voting promotion.

The Downtown Neighborhood Association of Elgin would again like to congratulate the winners of the Parade Float Decorating contest as determined by our panel of parade judges: Bob Malm, Riccardo Mancha, Krisilee Murphy, Velma Sept and Rich Wagner.

OPEN CATEGORY – A.B.O.D.E.

BUSINESS CATEGORY – Lamp Incorporated

CHILDREN'S CATEGORY – Spring Hill Gymnastics

ECO-ELGIN – Elgin Climate Change Organization (ECCO)

SPECIAL JUDGE'S RECOGNITION – The Crystal Lake Strikers

All of the parade winners will be recognized at the Elgin City Council Meeting on Wednesday, July 13 at Elgin City Hall, 150 Dexter Court, beginning at 7PM.

Over 15,000 people flocked to the streets of the Northeast Neighborhood Association and downtown Elgin to witness the 2011 City of Elgin 4th of July Parade – Presented by Sherman Health.

This Week at the Downtown Elgin Harvest Market - July 7

Here's what's in store for you at our July First Thursday Harvest Market on Thursday, July 7 at the Old Library Parking Lot at 200 N. Grove Avenue:
- Extended Harvest Market Hours from 10AM-6PM

- Alexian Brothers Health System Booth – health information and screenings

- Davey Tree Booth – Ask an Arborist! Educational information about trees and our environment.

- City of Elgin Booth – The Fire Department’s Suppression division will be present.

- Kids’s Corner provided by Highland Fellowship Church/Highland Christian Academy will be complete with face painting, table games, coloring pages, puzzles, plus prizes and more!

- Bocajump – find out about this online business, its local news, and its local business opportunities for Elgin and more!

- Chiro One Wellness Center Booth – information and free screenings for your overall health and wellness.

- Salon Couture – showcasing their Aveda product line, fun info about their salon, raffles, and opportunities to relax, enjoy, and take care of yourself!

- FOR KIDS & ADULTS! Downtown Neighborhood Association Booth – check out our new T-Shirts made out a recyclable blend for all ages, youth to adult, to wear with fun slogans like “We got the Beet” and “I Eat My Veggies”. Adult sizes are $15 and Youth sizes are $10.

- ECCO/ECN’s Sustainable Booth – learn more about Elgin Climate Change Organization and its various activities in Elgin, along with the Elgin Community Network made up of many active Elgin neighborhoods.

- Community Booth: International Teams
Distributing “Bring Change” campaign literature to raise awareness of issues in human trafficking locally and internationally. Additionally, will have “Bring Change” cd for sale.

- Live Entertainment – Strolling violinist Jennifer Silk between Noon–1:30PM, Annalee Hooson singing from 2-4PM, Fox River Trio 4-6PM, and Carleton the Mime might even be seen roving amongst the crowd!

- FOR KIDS & ADULTS! “Art at the Market” – a First Thursday’s series made possible by the Palmer Foundation will feature from Noon-2PM artisan volunteers helping market goers create art out of “junk” in 5-10 minutes. Known for their Transformer made out of junk at FoxFireFest several years ago Art by Joseph, out of Batavia, will be on hand all day creating a “Marketpiece” sculpture made out of junk found in the local area.

- Artz Zone from 4-6PM where artists in the community have the opportunity to set up for free at the Harvest Market and sell/demo their art! Artists currently participating at the market are Beadlicious (Bead & glass jewelry), Gail Azinger (functional pottery), Cheshire Kat (bamboo and acrylic jewelry, cards, buttons) Sister Craft Arts (water color paintings and art notecards), Zuq & Zoe (unique paper and fabric products), Julie’s Jewels (handmade jewelry and accessories), Karol’s Jewelry Shop (necklaces crafted with various materials), Eftstudios (etchings/artwork). Artists interested in joining should contact Jennifer Benson at 847-488-1456.

- “Market Munchies” for customers who shop between 4-6PM with purchase over $15.

- FOR KIDS & ADULTS! Find the Downtown Wandering Gnome!
Find clues posted at the market with a picture of the gnome hiding in a nearby Downtown Elgin DNA member organization/business. The first ten people to find the gnome within the next week receive a prize.

For more information about the Downtown Elgin Harvest Market, contact Market Manager Jennifer Benson at 847-488-1456 or e-mail ElginHarvestMarket@gmail.com.

Downtown Elgin Live Music and Entertainment Scene - July 7-12

Thursday, July 7

Douglas Street Sports Pub
231 Douglas Avenue
847-695-5659
DouglasStreetSportsPub.com

From 6-9PM, Douglas Street Sports Pub invites all the ladies in the house to their Girls Night Out.

The first 50 ladies to attend receive free admission, free Mai Tai & Lei, free entry to the prize raffle and a free goodie bag and shopping, shopping and more shopping with products available from local vendors.

Villa Verone Ristorante Italiano
13 Douglas Avenue
847-742-0263
VillaVerone.net

Thursday nights in downtown Elgin can be summed up in four simple letters: E.P.O.W. - also known as Elgin Person of the Week at Villa Verone Ristorante Italiano.

Beginning at 6:30PM, say hello to this week's EPOW and celebrity bartenders, Howard Stege and Robert Knizer...better known to downtown Elginites as Butch and Bob.

Come out to enjoy drinks, free appetizers, karaoke, dancing and an all-around good time in classic Villa Verone style!


Friday, July 8

Martini Room
161 E. Chicago Street
847-741-0349
MartiniRoomElgin.com

This Friday, Martini Room bids farewell to some of its older martinis, in advance of the upcoming launch of their NEW cocktail menu which debuts on Friday, July 22.

The following classic martinis will be featured for just $5:

· Chocolate Covered Cherry
· Berry Fusion
· Tootsie Roll
· Cherry Blossom
· Naked Smoothie
· Love Potion
· The Perfect Peach

Be sure to stop by Martini Room on Friday and have a good time with their budget-conscious "going away party".


Sunday, July 10

2011 Tropical Summer Jam
Parking lot in front of City Hall
150 Dexter Court

The 2011 Tropical Summer Jam Car & Motorcycle Show begins at 9AM in the parking lot in front of City Hall at 150 Dexter Court in downtown Elgin. Awards and prizes for 1st-3rd place for all categories. Cash award for Overall Best of Show. Enjoy live entertainment, beer garden, vendor & food booths, children's play area and much more!

For more information, contact Esteban at 847-529-7570 or e-mail raw1productions@yahoo.com.


Monday, July 11

Douglas Street Sports Pub
231 Douglas Avenue
847-695-5659
DouglasStreetSportsPub.com

From 6-11PM, Douglas Street Sports Pub invites everyone to "A Benefit for Dean Williams" - a very special fundraiser all for Dean's dream to walk again.

$10 cover at the door and 10% of all food sales with a matching 10% donation by DSSP all going to Dean.

There will be giveaways, door prizes and silent auctions for Cubs tickets, White Sox jerseys and signed sports and music memorabilia. Plus enjoy Minute-to-Win-It games, a Water Pong Tournament ($10 per team - cash prize for 1st and 2nd place), Miller Lite Specials, Learn the Melbourne Shuffle, music from DJ Cheez and much more!


Tuesday, July 12

Elgin Public House
219 E. Chicago Street
847-468-8810
ElginPublicHouse.com

Come check out EPH's monthly installment of "Fun with Food". This July's Fun with Food is BBQ. Mike has come up with some great specials including BBQ pizzas, BBQ Tacos, Fish with a Peach BBQ sauce, or BBQ Pulled Pork Spring Rolls.

4th of July Parade Float Judging Results

Judging by the crowds that poured into Elgin to partake in this summertime tradition, this year's City of Elgin 4th of July Parade - Presented by Sherman Health was a tremendous success!

Speaking of judging, we have the results of this year's Parade Float Judging contest. Here are the winners by category:

OPEN

1st Place - A.B.O.D.E.
2nd Place - People Who Make Patriotic Floats
3rd Place - First Congregational Church of Elgin

BUSINESS

1st Place - Lamp Incorporated
2nd Place - Provena St. Joseph Hospital
3rd Place - Danny's Pizza

CHILDREN'S

1st Place - Spring Hill Gymnastics
2nd Place - Kids' First Pediatric Dental
3rd Place - St. John's Lutheran School

ECO-ELGIN AWARD

Elgin Climate Change Organization

SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARD

The Crystal Lake Strikers

These organizations will be honored at an upcoming Elgin City Council meeting, later this July.

The 2011 Parade Float Judging panel consisted of Bob Malm, Riccardo Mancha, Krisilee Murphy, Velma Sept and Rich Wagner. The City of Elgin and the Downtown Neighborhood Association of Elgin would like to thank our esteemed judging panel for their service.

Don't forget, that there is one more bit of parade kudos yet to be awarded. Beginning Wednesday, July 6 at DowntownElgin.com, the general public will have the opportunity to vote for the 2011 Elgin Fourth of July Parade People's Choice Award through our online voting form. This award is open to any parade unit - not just floats - that you feel represents the best of the best in this year's parade.

Tell your friends and family to get out and rock the vote for your favorite parade unit. People's Choice Award voting concludes on Tuesday, July 12 at Noon.

A special thanks to everyone - sponsors, participants, staff and all of our amazing volunteers - for making this year's City of Elgin 4th of July Parade - Presented by Sherman Health a tremendous success!

This Week at the Downtown Elgin Harvest Market - June 30

FOR KIDS & ADULTS! Special Market Activity: Noon–2PM - Free, juicy Southern Illinois Peaches + Fun & Loud Pit Game - Picnic at the Market!

Alexian Brothers Health System Booth – health information and screenings

Davey Tree Booth – educational information about trees and our environment

City of Elgin Booth – From the Recreation department there will be information for the public on what community recreation is available in the City of Elgin this summer.

Simple Balance Holistic Center – will have information on hand of wellness programs and packages offered, as well as upcoming workshops and events.

Landin Chiropractic – performing free spinal screenings, with state of the art equipment, using infrared cameras to measure the temperature of the nerve roots on the spine.

DNA Booth - market merchandise, Find the Gnome clue and more.

ECCO/ECN’s Sustainable Booth: Elgin Community Garden Network - Learn what to do in your garden in July & August! We’ll focus on keeping your plants healthy in the summer heat.

Community Booth: Community Crisis Center - will be providing information regarding their services

NEW! Educational Signage - new educational signs will start popping up around the market helping customers and the public alike learn terms like grass-fed and locally grown, how to compost and practice it at the market, learn why Downtown’s are sustainable, and see a map of where our vendors and their products came from!

City of Elgin Fourth of July Parade: Toys on Parade

The 2011 City of Elgin Fourth of July Parade – Presented by Sherman Health steps off Monday, July 4 at 9AM.

Over 15,000 spectators annually converge upon downtown Elgin to witness this summertime tradition. This year's parade features over 80 parade units, 20 floats and nearly 150 different vehicles.

PARADE THEME & JUDGING

The theme of this year's Fourth of July Parade is "Toys on Parade". Groups, organizations and businesses are encouraged to participate by decorating floats or parade vehicles in the finest toy-themed regalia or dressing up in toy-inspired costumes.

In addition to the regular parade float judging, which includes a first, second and third place prize in the Open, Business and Children’s categories, a special "Eco-Elgin Award" will be given to the float that best tells the story of a "Green" Elgin - utilizing eco-friendly materials and processes for their parade entry.

This year's parade float decorating contest judging panel consists of Bob Malm, Ricardo Mancha, Krisilee Murphy, Velma Sept and Rich Wagner.

NEW! PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARD

This year's Fourth of July Parade will also include a People's Choice Award, voted on by the general public for the entire week following the parade, for the parade unit that best exemplifies the "Toys on Parade" theme. Photos of every parade unit, courtesy of our official Parade Photographer, David Ham of Ham Sandwich Imagery, and the online voting form will be available on the DNA's website at DowntownElgin.com beginning Wednesday, July 6 and "People's Choice" award voting concludes Tuesday, July 12 at Noon.

NEW! GRAND TEACHERS/GRAND MARSHALS

This past spring, the Downtown Neighborhood Association of Elgin encouraged area students, parents, teachers and school administrators to nominate outstanding Elgin area teachers to serve as a Fourth of July Parade Grand Marshal. After receiving dozens of nominations, the Fourth of July Parade committee selected three deserving candidates who will ride at the front of the parade in a beautiful powder blue Grand Marshal ’57 Cadillac convertible, provided by Richard Bennett:

Amy Baldini
5th-8th Grade Teacher
The Einstein Academy

Gloria Helin
1st Grade Teacher
Channing Memorial Elementary School

Dee Burns Maroney
4th Grade Teacher
Lords Park Elementary School

As an added thank you to the many deserving nominees, the Fourth of July Parade Committee has invited all of the "grand" teacher nominees and their nominators to march in the parade alongside the Grand Marshal car.

NEW! KOUNTRY PET RESORT POOCH PARADE

Another new addition to this year’s Fourth of July Parade is the Kountry Pet Resort Pooch Parade. Beginning at Ann Street and Douglas Avenue just before 9AM, members, staff and residents of Kountry Pet Resort in Elgin will parade their puppies and pooches - many dressed in their finest patriotic attire – to warm up the crowd along the south end of the parade route. There will be a costume contest, dog trick demonstrations and free dog treats and toys will be handed out by Kountry Pet Resort staff. Pet waste clean-up will be provided by Ron John Poo-B-Gone of Bartlett.

NEW! COMMUNITY CRISIS CENTER TOY DRIVE

In keeping with the parade theme of Toys on Parade, parade-goers are encouraged to donate a new toy at Community Crisis Center's Toy Drive, which takes place after the parade in front of City Hall, 150 Dexter Court. Every family that donates a toy receives one free child's admission (with the purchase of an adult ticket) to LEGOLand located in the Streets of Woodfield in Schaumburg.

Characters from the movie Toy Story will also be on-hand at the Toy Drive taking photos with the kids. A small financial donation to the Community Crisis Center is required and parents must take their own photos.

PARADE ENTERTAINMENT

The City of Elgin’s Fourth of July Parade also boasts an assemblage of some of the area's finest parade entertainment sure to thrill parade-goers both young and young at heart, including:

South Shore Drill Team
The Jesse White Tumblers
Crystal Lake Strikers
Big Shoulders Brass Band
Medinah Motor Corps
Dundee Scottish Pipe Band
Kane County Mounted Rangers
Matt Wilhelm and Next Level BMX Team
Those Funny Little People
U-46 Bands from Streamwood High School, South Elgin High School, Larkin High School and Elgin High School
Tebala Shriners Blue Haze Mini Choppers, Mini Bikes and Big Wheels

STREET CLOSURES

Please be advised that Kimball Street will be shut down from Brook to Center streets from 8:45AM until the parade completely disbands around 11:30AM. Parking is available at the south end of the parade route in the free downtown parking lots and garages and at the north end in the Sherman Health Immediate Care surface lot and along neighboring streets.

VOLUNTEERS

The parade would not be possible without the efforts of dozens of community volunteers. The Fourth of July Parade Committee is still seeking additional volunteers for the day of the parade. Available positions include Block Captains, Gate Keepers, Parade Route Ambassadors and Set-Up/Tear-Down Crew. The approximate time commitment would be 7AM-11AM. All volunteers enjoy a Volunteer Breakfast at the Elgin Police Department Community Room, 151 Douglas Avenue, beginning at 6:15AM and a free parade t-shirt. For more information about volunteering for the Fourth of July Parade, call (847) 488-1456 or e-mail downtownelgin@gmail.com

SPONSORS

The City of Elgin, the Downtown Neighborhood Association of Elgin and the Fourth of July Parade Committee thanks all of the generous sponsors for their support of the parade.

Sherman Health – Presenting Sponsor

Provena St. Joseph Hospital – Red Level Sponsor

Woody Buick/GMC, John B. Sanfilippo & Son, Inc. and BocaJump – White Level Sponsors

Spring Hill Gymnastics, Insure One, Kountry Pet Resort, Kids First Pediatric Dentistry, Elgin Community College, Psychosis Haunted House, Kirkpatrick, Jones & Herzog Insurance and Redmon’s Towing – Blue Level Sponsors

Harris Bank, Danny’s Pizza, Lamp Incorporated, Elgin Public House, Elgin Junior Service Board and Richard Bennett – Community Sponsors

For more information about the 2011 City of Elgin Fourth of July Parade – Presented by Sherman Health, contact the Downtown Neighborhood Association of Elgin at (847) 488-1456, e-mail downtownelgin@gmail.com or visit DowntownElgin.com.

Elgin's Crosstown Classic Challenge Winner Announced

The Downtown Neighborhood Association of Elgin would like to congratulate Jeff Turner and In the Neighborhood Deli, 185 Edison, as our winner of the inaugural Elgin's Crosstown Classic Challenge against Downtown Madness Champion Greg Shannon and Elgin Public House, 219 E. Chicago Street, in a battle for pulled pork supremacy.

After all the votes from the public were counted, In The Neighborhood Deli's Pulled Pork defeated Elgin Public House's Pulled Pork by 6 votes.

The announcement was made live on Tuesday morning's Chef Jeff and Jeff show on WRMN AM-1410.

For their victory in the Crosstown Classic Challenge, In the Neighborhood Deli now has the privilege of naming the dish that both Turner and Shannon will cook and sample at the Downtown Elgin Harvest Market on Thursday, July 14. Fans of both establishments are encouraged to come out to the market to enjoy some great food and cheer on their team once again.

It was also confirmed by the two proprietors that nearly 100 lbs. of pulled pork was sold between the two restaurants during the DNA's week-long social media promotion.

Congratulations also to Steve Knight for casting his vote for In the Neighborhood Deli. Knight's name was drawn at random from all of the winning team's votes to win a pair of White Sox tickets for the July 30 game against the Boston Red Sox at U.S. Cellular Field - courtesy of Crosstown Classic Challenge presenting sponsor, Van Galder Bus Company.

Elgin's Crosstown Classic Challenge Scoring Update - June 27

Hello again Pulled Pork fans! Are you ready to cheer your team onto victory?

It's two outs in the bottom of the ninth and things could not be any tighter in Elgin's Crosstown Classic Challenge - Presented by Van Galder Bus Company. Here's where we stand:

Elgin Public House's Pulled Pork leads In The Neighborhood Deli's Pulled Pork by 4.

Time to bring in the closer! This one is for all the marbles! Pull for your favorite pork! If you have already voted, tell all your foodie friends to rock the vote for your team! It's easy to participate:

1.) Like the Downtown Neighborhood Association of Elgin, IL's Facebook page (and encourage your Facebook friends to do so as well)

2.) Post the following message on the DNA Facebook wall: "I love [EPH/ITN Deli's] Pulled Pork."

If you are not a Facebook user, you can vote through our online voting form at DowntownElgin.com. One vote per e-mail address only!

VOTING CLOSES MONDAY, JUNE 27 AT 11:59PM CDT!

Remember, when your team wins - you could be the winner of two tickets to the Chicago White Sox vs. Boston Red Sox game on July 30 at U.S. Cellular Field, courtesy of Van Galder Bus Company!

Stay tuned to the DNA's Facebook page and DNA blog for the latest scoring updates!

Good luck and keep those Facebook likes and votes coming!

Elgin's Crosstown Classic Challenge Scoring Update - June 24

Hello again Pulled Pork fans! Are you ready to cheer your team onto victory?

It's just about Seventh Inning Stretch time at the Crosstown Classic Challenge - Presented by Van Galder Bus Company and here's where we stand:

Elgin Public House's Pulled Pork leads In The Neighborhood Deli's Pulled Pork by 18.

Come on food fanatics! Make this weekend count! Pull for your favorite pork! If you have already voted, tell all your foodie friends to rock the vote for your team! It's easy to participate:

1.) Like the Downtown Neighborhood Association of Elgin, IL's Facebook page (and encourage your Facebook friends to do so as well)

2.) Post the following message on the DNA Facebook wall: "I love [EPH/ITN Deli's] Pulled Pork."

If you are not a Facebook user, you can vote through our online voting form at DowntownElgin.com. One vote per e-mail address only!

VOTING CLOSES MONDAY, JUNE 27 AT 11:59PM CDT!

Remember, when your team wins - you could be the winner of two tickets to the Chicago White Sox vs. Boston Red Sox game on July 30 at U.S. Cellular Field, courtesy of Van Galder Bus Company!

Stay tuned to the DNA's Facebook page and DNA blog for the latest scoring updates!

Good luck and keep those Facebook likes and votes coming!

Elgin's Crosstown Classic Challenge Scoring Update - June 23

Hello again Pulled Pork fans! Are you ready to cheer your team onto victory?

We're in the middle innings of the Crosstown Classic Challenge - Presented by Van Galder Bus Company and here's where we stand:

Elgin Public House's Pulled Pork leads In The Neighborhood Deli's Pulled Pork by 23.

Come on Elgin foodies! Pull for your favorite pork and rock the vote for your team! It's easy to participate:

1.) Like the Downtown Neighborhood Association of Elgin, IL's Facebook page (and encourage your Facebook friends to do so as well)

2.) Post the following message on the DNA Facebook wall: "I love [EPH/ITN Deli's] Pulled Pork."

If you are not a Facebook user, you can vote through our online voting form at DowntownElgin.com. One vote per e-mail address only!

VOTING CLOSES MONDAY, JUNE 27 AT 11:59PM CDT!

Remember, when your team wins - you could be the winner of two tickets to the Chicago White Sox vs. Boston Red Sox game on July 30 at U.S. Cellular Field, courtesy of Van Galder Bus Company!

Stay tuned to the DNA's Facebook page and DNA blog for the latest scoring updates!

Good luck and keep those Facebook likes and votes coming!

This Week at the Downtown Elgin Harvest Market: June 23

Here's what's happening this week at the Downtown Elgin Harvest Market on Thursday, June 23 from 10AM-4PM at its new location at the Old Library Lot at 200 N. Grove Avenue:

FOR KIDS & ADULTS! Musical Chairs at 12:30PM - Come play Musical Chairs with our Harvest Market Adirondack Throne to win free prizes! Rich Wagner of Rediscover Records will supply the tunes!

Alexian Brothers Health System Booth - health information and screenings

Davey Tree Booth - educational information about trees and our environment

City of Elgin Booth - information about this summer's special events

Downtown Neighborhood Association Booth - market merchandise including Recipe Cards for $1.00 each and Elgin Seed Company Magnet for $3.50 each

ECCO/ECN's Sustainable Booth - Hawthorne Hill Nature Center will be present with information and activities to reconnect people with nature through positive outdoor experience

Community Booth - YWCA Elgin will hand out popcorn and refreshments (10AM-2PM) while promoting the YWCA and their upcoming Y-Walk/Y-Ride event on July 10 in Festival Park.

Find the Harvest Market Gnome - a new clue will be revealed at the market to help you locate the Gnome at a participating downtown business - prizes will be awarded to those who find him!

For more information about the Downtown Elgin Harvest Market, contact Jennifer Benson at ElginHarvestMarket@gmail.com

Let's Play Two: Elgin's Crosstown Classic Challenge Begins June 20

Beginning Monday, June 20, in honor of the first Chicago crosstown series of the season, our 2011 Downtown Madness Champion, Elgin Public House's Pulled Pork, will put downtown pride on the line against our crosstown neighbor, In The Neighborhood Deli and their Pulled Pork, in our newest social media promotion: Elgin's Crosstown Classic Challenge - Presented by Van Galder Bus Company.

All next week, we are asking Facebook fans to step up to the plate and get behind their "team" by casting their vote for their favorite on the DNA's Facebook page. Here's how to participate:

1.) You must "LIKE" the Downtown Neighborhood Association of Elgin IL Facebook Page and encourage friends and other loyal Pulled Pork supporters to do so as well.

2.) Post one of the following messages on DNA's wall: "I love EPH's Pulled Pork" or "I love ITN Deli's Pulled Pork". Only one vote per screen name.

PLEASE DO NOT POST YOUR VOTE UNTIL MONDAY, JUNE 20. ALL VOTES POSTED PRIOR TO MONDAY, JUNE 20 WILL NOT BE COUNTED!

If you are not a Facebook user, we invite you to vote through our Crosstown Classic Challenge Online Voting Form, which will be available Monday, June 20 at DowntownElgin.com. Only one vote per e-mail address.

The winner of the Crosstown Classic Challenge will not only have bragging rights but will also have the choice of which dish both restaurants will prepare and sample at the Crosstown Classic Challenge Cook-Off on Thursday, July 14 at the Downtown Elgin Harvest Market.

The best part is when your team wins, you could be a winner too! At the conclusion of the promotion, we will draw a name at random from all of the voters on the "winning team" and that lucky person will receive two tickets to the Chicago White Sox vs. Boston Red Sox game on Saturday, July 30 at U.S. Cellular Field - courtesy of our presenting sponsor, Van Galder Bus Company.

Tune in to the Chef Jeff & Jeff Show on WRMN-AM 1410 on Tuesday, June 21 beginning at 9AM for our first Crosstown Classic Challenge scoring update. Then tune in again on Tuesday, June 28 at 9AM for the announcement of the winning team as well as the winner of the baseball tickets!

Again, voting begins Monday so if you have not done so already, please "LIKE" the DNA Facebook page and then post your vote on our wall beginning Monday, June 20.

We also encourage you to "Like" Elgin Public House, In the Neighborhood Deli and Van Galder Bus Company's Facebook pages as well:

Downtown Neighborhood Association of Elgin IL

Elgin Public House

In The Neighborhood Deli

Van Galder Bus Company

Downtown Elgin Live Music & Entertainment Scene - June 16-18

Thursday, June 16

Y-Walk/Y-Ride Kickoff - Elgin Persons of the Week
Villa Verone
13 Douglas Avenue
847-742-0263
http://www.villaverone.net/

This Thursday beginning at 6:30PM, Villa Verone hosts some very special Elgin Persons of the Week: the YWCA Elgin, who will be on hand to promote the YW's Y-Walk/Y-Ride event which takes place on July 10 at 10:30AM in Festival Park. Enjoy free appetizers, karaoke, dancing and fun with friends, all while supporting the YW!

Three Amigos Movie Night
Elgin Public House
219 E. Chicago Street
847-468-8810
http://www.elginpublichouse.com/

Grab your lip balm, summon the invisible swordsman and sew like the wind over to EPH beginning at 8PM for a screening of the all-time comedy classic The Three Amigos. EPH will be offering specials on Corona and El-berita as well as a plethora of Three Amigos inspired food specials. Wash it down with some Tequila...it's like beer.

Friday, June 17

Elgin BrewFest
Festival Park
Prairie Street & South Grove Avenue
http://www.elginbrewfest.com/

On Friday, June 17 and Saturday, June 18 from 5PM-Midnight, come out and enjoy Elgin Brewfest, an outdoor live music festival that takes place every Father's Day Weekend in downtown Elgin. The event features a large selection of premium beers, classic festival grub and, of course, live music from your favorite local bands!

Friday night's performers include Friction - 6-7PM, Modern Day Romeos - 7:30-8:30PM and Infinity - 9-11PM. Saturday night features Smokin Gunz - 6-7PM, HiFi Superstar - 7:30-8:30PM and 7th Heaven - 9-11PM.

Tickets must be purchased for all beer sales. Wristbands with valid photo ID must be obtained to purchase alcohol. $5 per ticket. 1 ticket = 1 (16oz) beer or 1 (6oz) glass of wine. All proceeds benefit the Boys & Girls Club of Elgin.

For more information regarding Elgin Brewfest, please e-mail Info@ElginBrewfest.com or visit http://www.elginbrewfest.com/

My Lazy Elephant
The Gasthaus
15 N. Grove Avenue
847-695-8828

At 9PM, stop by The Gast for the unofficial Brewfest after-party featuring the return of My Lazy Elephant. And don't forget that The Gasthaus is now open for lunch with a great selection of burgers, sandwiches and pub food.

Hot and Sexy Salsa Night
Villa Verone
13 Douglas Avenue
847-742-0263
http://www.villaverone.net/

Spice up your weekend at Villa Verone with another installment of their Hot & Sexy Salsa Night beginning at 9PM. Come dance the night away!

Saturday, June 18

Thunder on the Fox
Fox River at McBride Street
http://www.thunderonthefox.com/

On Saturday, June 18 and Sunday, June 19, bring the family out to the banks of the Fox River in downtown Elgin to enjoy all the action of live Formula Two and Formula Three Tunnel Boat racing excitement as APR Superleague and McGrath Motorsports present Thunder on the Fox!

Race times are Noon-5PM on both Saturday and Sunday. Admission is $10 for adults, $7 for kids (6-12), and free admission for kids 5 and under. Tickets will be on sale at the event location on McBride Street beginning at 8AM on Friday, June 17. Bring your own lawn chairs. Food and beverage vendors will be on hand. No food, alcohol, coolers or pets allowed.

For more specific details about the event, visit their website at ThunderOnTheFox.com

Sunday, June 19

Father's Day Brunch
Elgin Public House
219 E. Chicago Street
847-468-8810
http://www.elginpublichouse.com/

Brunch for the Dads we love featuring chocolate covered bacon, bacon stuffed with bacon wrapped in bacon, peppered candied bacon on top of a deviled egg, carving Station and more! $18.95 per person. Reservations recommended.

Dads Eat Free
Douglas Street Sports Pub
231 Douglas Avenue
847-695-5659
http://www.douglasstreetsportsbar.com/

On Father's Day at Douglas Street Sports Pub DADS EAT FREE (with $10.99 or greater table purchase) all day long! Bring the entire family and celebrate Dad! Doors open at 11AM.

Dad's Day Drink Special
Martini Room
161 E. Chicago Street
847-741-0349
http://www.martiniroomelgin.com/

Martini Room has prepared a very special cocktail for Father's Day: the Algonquin Manhattan. Elegantly composed of Jim Beam, Grand Marnier, Angostura bitters, orange zest and pineapple juice, this unique cocktail is sure to become a favorite and all fathers can enjoy it on Father's Day for 25% off regular price.

Happy Father's Day to all the wonderful dads out there!

This Week at the Downtown Elgin Harvest Market - June 16

Bike to Work Week Special Activity at Noon
-The Bicycle Garage will conduct a bike education/repair clinic.

Alexian Brothers Health System Booth – health information and screenings

Davey Tree Booth – educational information about trees and our environment

City of Elgin Booth – From the Community Development department will be information from the Health division for the summer months.

Salon Couture Booth

Downtown Neighborhood Association Booth - Harvest Market Snack Bag Raffle (Specifically for the Cyclist or Public Transit Commuter but not limited to) - Raffle tickets are $1 or free with Market Membership or with proof of bike/helmet or transit card. Drawing will be at 1pm.

(FOR KIDS & ADULTS!) ECCO/ECN’s Sustainable Booth - Elgin Public Museum
Some things are not easily recycled. Discover new innovative ways scientists are tackling problem substances like oil and Styrofoam.

(FOR KIDS & ADULTS!) Community Booth - Gail Borden Public Library
Learn about knights of chivalry, dragons and fairies, castles of old, a medieval fair and summer reading quests! Enjoy story time with a Royal Reader. Bring your camera and pose with a medieval character. Pretend you are royalty or even a knight in shining armor!

NEW! Beginning this week new educational signs will start popping up around the market helping customers and the public alike learn terms like grass-fed and locally grown, how to compost and practice it at the market, learn why Downtown’s are sustainable, and see a map of where our vendors and their products came from!

Winners of Grand Teacher/Grand Marshal Competition Announced

After receiving dozens of nominations of so many deserving "grand" teachers from Elgin area schools, students, parents and administrators over the last month, the Downtown Neighborhood Association of Elgin is proud to announce our three Parade Grand Marshals for the City of Elgin's 2011 Fourth of July Parade - Presented by Sherman Health:

Amy Baldini
5th-8th Grade Teacher
The Einstein Academy

Gloria Helin
1st Grade Teacher
Channing Memorial Elementary School

Dee Burns Maroney
4th Grade Teacher
Lords Park Elementary School

Congratulations to our three winners who will ride in our special Grand Marshal convertible to kick off the parade!

Plus as an added thank you to our many deserving nominees, we will also be inviting all of the "grand" teacher nominees, who are available on Fourth of July morning, to march in the parade alongside the Grand Marshal car.

Thank you again to all of you who took the time to recognize our wonderful Elgin area teachers!

This Week at the Downtown Elgin Harvest Market - June 9

The Downtown Elgin Harvest Market - Presented by Alexian Brothers continues this Thursday, June 9 from 10AM-4PM, at its new location at the Old Library Lot at 200 N. Grove Avenue (Kimball Street and N. Grove Avenue) next to The Centre of Elgin and across from the Gail Borden Public Library.

Planned activities and attractions include:

* Alexian Brothers Health System Booth – health information and screenings

* Davey Tree Booth – educational information about trees and our environment

* City of Elgin Booth – The Fire Department’s Water & Rescue division will be on hand with information.

* Chiro One Wellness Center Booth– will be on hand with information and free screenings for your overall health and wellness.

* Simple Balance Holistic Center Booth– will have information on hand of wellness programs and packages offered, as well as upcoming workshops and events.

* Downtown Neighborhood Association Booth:
- Harvest Market Snack Bag Raffle (Specifically for the Cyclist or Public Transit Commuter but not limited to) - Raffle tickets are $1 or free with Market Membership or with proof of bike/helmet or transit card. Drawing will be on June 16 at 1pm.
- NEW! Recipe Cards for $1 from our vendors using products/produce from the market!

* (FOR KIDS & ADULTS!) ECCO/ECN’s Sustainable Booth: Elgin Area History Museum
Dairy Delights – Discover Elgin’s dairy industry; its connection to our library? Learn how butter was made and how we can make it today!

* Community Booth: Elgin Bicycle & Pedestrian Advisory Committee: Will have information about Bike to Work Week - June 11–18, Elgin’s bike plant, Ride for Life registration form, Bike Chain Project map, and Kane County Bike Map.

Elgin Bike to Work Week - June 11-18

Below is a list of Elgin Bike to Work Week events between June 11-18 (all events are free unless noted)

Click here to download Elgin Bike to Work Week Printable Poster

Saturday 6/11
9:00 am–Noon

Bike Donation Drive - The BPAC will collect bikes at the Centre and then send them to Working Bikes Cooperative, where most will be repaired and sent to areas/countries in need of bikes for transportation.

Sunday 6/12
6:00 am–3:30 pm

Bike for Life Ride in rural Kane County - A fund raiser for school bike racks. Fee involved. Register at www.cityofelgin.org/bikes

Monday 6/13
6:30 pm–8:00 pm

Local historian, Jerry Turnquist, will lead a bike tour through the Elgin Historic District. Meet at Old Main, 360 Park Street.

Tuesday 6/14
6:00 pm

Join a bike fitness class for a 90-minute ride on the Fox River Trail. Meet at the Centre.

Wednesday 6/15
Noon

Celebratory lunch for bike commuters at noon on Walton Island, sponsored by the Elgin Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee. Rain date is Friday, 6/17. Reservations are required. Call 847 931 6788

Wednesday 6/1
7:00 pm

The Bicycle Garage will conduct a bike education/repair clinic at the Gail Borden Public Library.

Thursday 6/16
7:30 am

Breakfast ride with the Mayor - Meet in front of City Hall and ride for 30 minutes before stopping for coffee at Ravenheart Café in Downtown Elgin.

Thursday 6/16
Noon

The Bicycle Garage will conduct a bike education/repair clinic at the Harvest Market in Downtown Elgin.

Friday 6/17
6:45 pm

Matt Wilhelm, X-Games Medalist will perform a BMX trick bike show at the “old library” parking lot in downtown.

Friday 6/17
8:00 pm

Watch the movie “Chasing Legends” in The Centre ballroom.

Saturday 6/18
Noon–5 pm

Avoid the traffic in the area of the boat races by biking to the event and securing your bike at the bike corral sponsored by the BPAC. Donation requested.

ONGOING BIKE TO WORK WEEK EVENTS (ALL WEEK LONG)

- Bike to the Gail Borden Public Library and get $5.00 worth of late fees waived and a coupon for a free drink with a purchase from Chicago Gourmet Cafe.

- Visit the bike display at GBPL, including a typical commuter bicycle outfitted by Main Street

-Bikes and history of biking in Elgin presented by the Elgin Area Historical Society.

- Take advantage of the new bike loan program at the Eastside Recreation Center. Call Aaron at 847-888-1989 for details

- Free showers at the Centre for bike commuters.

- Attend any event and get a free water bottle, sponsored by Elgin BPAC, Elgin Community Network and The Bicycle Garage

- Locate the BPAC sponsored “Thrones of Summer” decorated chair along the bike path.

Please contact Paul Bednar, BPAC staff coordinator at 847-931-6788 with any questions, or go to www.cityofelgin.org/bikes for more information.

New Season, New Location for Downtown Elgin Harvest Market

Opening Day of the 2011 Downtown Elgin Harvest Market - Presented by Alexian Brothers Health System kicks off next Thursday, June 2, with special extended market hours from 10AM-6PM, at its new location at the Old Library Lot at 200 N. Grove Avenue (Kimball Street and N. Grove Avenue) next to The Centre of Elgin and across from the Gail Borden Public Library.

Opening day at the Harvest Market will feature:

- Free Harvest Market tote bags with proof of purchase

- Alexian Brothers Health System Booth - wellness information and screenings

- Sponsor and Community Partner Informational booths

- Kids' Corner complete with face painting, table games, coloring pages, puzzles, plus prizes provided by Highland Fellowship Church/Highland Christian Academy

- Live Entertainment consisting of a strolling violinist, folk singer, and more

- Artisans selling their artwork via Artz Zone 4-6pm

- "Art at the Market" Demonstrations at Noon

- "Market Munchies" from 4-6PM for customers with a purchase of $15 or more

- Month-long free raffle at the DNA Booth hosted by United Way, along with newly launched Harvest Market membership, merchandise, etc.

- The first clue on the whereabouts of DNA's Wandering Gnome will also be posted with a picture of the gnome hiding in a nearby DNA member business/organization - first ten people to find the gnome will get a prize!

- Donation container for vendors and customers to donate food to the Community Crisis Center

This year the market is placing special emphasis on local vendors selling primarily locally grown and produced foods, as well as, education on good sustainable practices for healthy living and adding a weekly component of arts and artisans.

The Downtown Elgin Harvest Market will be open every Thursday from June 2-September 29. Normal market hours are 10AM-4PM. On every first Thursday of each month, the market rolls out its special First Thursday market featuring extended hours from 10AM-6PM and offering added components such as live entertainment, Artz Zone, Kids Corner, sustainability and wellness booths, market munchies and much more.

Our market vendors, farms and local businesses will be offering bread, eggs, meats, fruits, vegetables, flowers, honey products, olives, hummus, cheese, spices, pickles, applesauce, mustards, salsas, knife sharpening services, lunch foods and more!

The Downtown Elgin Harvest Market is sponsored by Alexian Brothers Health System, Chiro One, Highland Fellowship Church & Highland Christian Academy, Landin Chiropractic, Salon Couture, and Simple Balance Holistic Center. Thanks also to our partners City of Elgin, BocaJump, Elgin Climate Change Organization, Elgin Community Network, and Northern Fox Valley Habitat for Humanity's Restore. "Art at the Market" is made possible by a grant through the Palmer Foundation.

For more information about the Downtown Elgin Harvest Market, contact Harvest Market Manager Jennifer Benson at (847) 488-1456 or e-mail ElginHarvestMarket@gmail.com.

Frock Swap Returns to Hemmens July 16

Frock Swap, the annual wardrobe revitalization event which benefits the Community Crisis Center, returns to The Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way, on July 16.

For a $10 entry fee, shoppers & swappers can revitalize their wardrobes for little or no money. It's green. It's affordable. It's good for our community. What could be better?

In addition to the shopping and swapping, new additions to this year's event include a performance by The Reverends, the Frock Swap fashion show judged by Project Runway's Althea Harper and special honorary chair, WGN's Nancy Loo.

It's fashionably fun! For more information on how to participate in Frock Swap, visit their website at FrockSwapCCC.com

Deadline to Recognize a Grand Elgin Teacher Extended Until June 1

The deadline to nominate a "grand" Elgin teacher as a Parade Grand Marshal for the City of Elgin's 2011 Fourth of July Parade has been extended until Wednesday, June 1.

In conjunction with the City of Elgin’s 2011 Fourth of July Parade – Presented by Sherman Health, which steps off at the intersection of Slade and Douglas Avenues on Monday, July 4 at 9AM, the Downtown Neighborhood Association (DNA) of Elgin is asking your assistance to help us in recognizing outstanding teachers in the Elgin community by nominating them to be one of the 2011 Fourth of July Parade Grand Marshals!

The Parade Committee is asking parents, local PTO members, school administrators or students to write a brief essay about why they feel their teacher is “grand” in the classroom and therefore deserves to be honored as a Grand Marshal in the 2011 Fourth of July Parade.

The competition is open to any teacher (K-12) currently working in an Elgin public or private school. Additional guidelines and restrictions are outlined in the nomination packet.

To download the nomination packet, visit the Fourth of July Parade page on the DNA website at www.DowntownElgin.com.

The Downtown Neighborhood Association will accept nominations in person or by mail at DNA, 2 Douglas Avenue, Elgin, IL 60120; by fax at (847) 488-1449; or by e-mail at DowntownElgin@gmail.com.

The Parade Committee will then announce the three Grand Marshals selected from all of the nominations on Friday, June 3. Our Parade Grand Marshals will ride in a special classic car at the front of the parade courtesy of Mr. Richard Bennett. They will also each receive an official City of Elgin Fourth of July Parade t-shirt and other goodies.

PLEASE NOTE: Those teachers selected must be available the morning of the parade from approximately 8AM until 12PM.

If you have any questions about the Grand Teacher/Grand Marshall nomination process or for additional information about the City of Elgin's 2011 Fourth of July Parade, please contact Jason Pawlowski, DNA Promotions Coordinator, at (847) 488-1456 or e-mail jpawlowski@elginil.org.