This Week at the Downtown Elgin Harvest Market - August 18

Here's what's happening this Thursday, August 18 at the Downtown Elgin Harvest Market from 10AM-4PM at 200 N. Grove Avenue, located across from the Gail Borden Public Library and next to The Centre of Elgin:

• Alexian Brothers Health System Booth – the Neurosciences folks and Joyce Ancona will be present to help market goers learn their stroke score cards and blood pressures.
• Davey Tree Booth–"Ask an Arborist!" - educational information about trees and our environment.
• Simple Balance Holistic Center – will have information on hand of wellness programs and packages offered, as well as upcoming workshops and events.
• Salon Couture–an Aveda salon - will have information about their products and services, plus maybe a raffle or hand massage.
• ECCO/ECN’s Sustainable Booth: Elgin Public Museum - Fun with pH! Test water samples to see if Elgin’s water is in balance; then test other liquids to see how they compare with water.
• Community Booth: Community Crisis Center - will be providing information regarding their services and have Terri Naaf selling reusable fabric gift bags and other sewing crafts that will go 100% to the Community Crisis Center.
• Find the Downtown Wandering Gnome! You will find clues posted at the market with a picture of the gnome hiding in a nearby DNA Downtown Member Organization/Business. First ten people to find the gnome within the next week will get a prize.
• Merchandise for Sale at the Downtown Neighborhood Association Booth:

• - New Harvest Market T-shirts $10- $15
• - Elgin Tower Building Puzzles $5
• - Vintage Elgin Seeds Magnet $3.50
• - Weekly Recipe Cards $1

• Become a DNA Harvest Market Member! Join DNA as a Harvest Market member for only $45 and get a free tote bag, free Vintage Seeds Magnet, membership card which helps you get a free raffle ticket at the DNA booth, 10% discounts on merchandise, and other specials, plus all of the benefits included with the DNA individual membership.

Click here to see photos of our new Harvest Market t-shirts > > >

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

Downtown Elgin Pub Crawl Details

The following is a list of drink specials available to Downtown Elgin Pub Crawlers (for the night of August 12 only) who show their passports when ordering. All participating Downtown Elgin Pub Crawl establishments will be offering $3.00 Miller Lite bottles - courtesy of our presenting sponsor, Euclid Beverage.

The Gasthaus
15 N. Grove Avenue
847-695-8828

• The Moody Blues - $3

• Purple Haze - $3


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

• Red Apple Martini - $6

• Cherry Sprite Mixed Drink - $5

• SoCo Lime Shot - $3


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

• LA Lemonade - $5

• All Three Olives Vodka Drinks - $5

• Summer Shante Drafts - $4


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

• Glass of House Wine (red or white) - $5

• Cucumber Shots - $2


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

• EPH Strawberry Lemonade - $5

• Peach Cobbler Shots - $3.50


The AfterSet
158 Symphony Way
847-608-7570

• Patron Pyrat Rum and Coke - $5

• Patron Citrogne Tequila and Sprite - $5


Medusa's
209 E. Chicago Street

• Drink specials TBA


Additionally, the streets of downtown Elgin will be alive with activity as several local musicians will be performing on street corners throughout the evening including:

• John Rodriguez & Dave Hudson – Highland & Douglas (southeast corner)
• The Reverends – Chicago & Douglas/S. Grove (southwest corner near park)
• Joe Haggenjos – Chicago & Spring (southwest corner near park)
• Annalee – Chicago & Spring (west of Spring deck entrance/exit)

For a $10 donation, crawlers will receive one raffle ticket for a cash prize of $500, as well as an official Downtown Elgin Pub Crawl lanyard (complete with bottle opener) courtesy of our presenting sponsor, Euclid Beverage.

Crawlers who visit at least FOUR of the 7 participating bars will receive a second raffle ticket for the $500 cash prize drawing. Each bar will also host a unique prize package - raffle tickets for these prizes are $1 each.

Donation proceeds and raffle ticket sales benefit the Downtown Neighborhood Association of Elgin to support the continued revitalization of downtown Elgin.

To avoid the lines at check-in, pre-register and pay online by clicking here!

Downtown Elgin Walk and Talk Slated for August 23

On Tuesday, August 23, the Elgin Police Department will conduct a "Walk and Talk" through the downtown Elgin business district from 2-4PM. The purpose of the Walk and Talk is for officers and members of the command staff to meet members of the downtown Elgin community and seek input regarding any issues facing downtown business owners and residents. Members of city staff, including code enforcement, will also be available to address questions or concerns. The walk will commence in front of the DNA office at 2 Douglas Avenue, where several groups will be formed to walk through the various areas in the downtown.

Any downtown business owner or resident who would like to participate in the walk should contact Lt. Bill Wolf at 847-289-2602 or email wolf_b@cityofelgin.org. The walk will conclude at the DNA office at 3:30PM for a quick wrap-up meeting and Q&A. This event is a great opportunity for members of the downtown area to work with the City of Elgin toward the common goal of hosting a thriving business district.

For more information, contact the DNA at (847) 488-1456 or e-mail downtownelgin@gmail.com.

Downtown Day (and Night) Planner for Thursday, August 4

Seriously? What isn't there to do in downtown Elgin today?

Not to worry, we've got your Thursday all planned out:

- Start with one of Domani Cafe's new Frappes or Fruit Smoothies. They're delish!

- Then head over to the Downtown Elgin Harvest Market, across from the Gail Borden Public Library, where it's "First Thursday" time! That not only means the market stays open for two extra hours (until 6PM) but also live music and entertainment from strolling minstrels, a food-art demonstration by Jeff Turner from In the Neighborhood Deli, kids activities, Artz Zone and, of course, fresh locally produced fruit, veggies, bread, olives, hummus, spices and much more! Plus you can look for our roving Harvest Market Gnome hiding in one of our downtown Elgin DNA member businesses.

- After a busy morning of shopping and eating at the market, maybe you need to work off some of those calories? No prob. Head over to The Centre of Elgin for a workout in their beautiful fitness center. Not a member? Why not join today? Call 847-531-7000 for information about membership?

- Lunch time! Lots of choices here folks: authentic Thai cuisine or Sushi at Toom Toom Thai, homestyle Mexican fare at La Puesta Del Sol and La Quebrada, "pub grub" at Elgin Public House and The Gasthaus, Chinese and Thai inspired flavors from Bangkok House & Shanghai Restaurant, American fare for a variety of palettes and legendary Burn's Malts at Al's Cafe & Creamery, sandwiches from Ravenheart Coffee, cookies and pastry from Pastigel Bakery and La Rosita Bakery...is your mouth watering yet?

- Elgin's rich history is preserved and showcased throughout the year at the Elgin History Museum at 360 Park Street. The museum is open today from Noon-4PM. Stop in and celebrate your City's heritage.

- Want to get your read on? Elgin Books has you covered with wall-to-wall used and vintage books. Don't forget to sample their coffee and root beer floats!

- How about getting a head start on that holiday shopping list? Find unique treasures for all the people on your list at Elgin Antiques and Uniques, Two Doors Down Antiques (featuring Rediscover Records) and Spacetaste Gallery. How about something for that special someone? Jewelry makes a great gift and Shockey Jewelers and Elgin Jewelers both offer a vast selection of high quality gold, silver, diamonds and estate pieces - as well as repair services. For the handyman, stop into Ziegler's Ace Hardware for all things tool-icious. Don't forget Andersen's Engraving and Artistic Framing and supplies for unique gift ideas and Wrona Brothers for all of your office supply needs.

- The question: Where can I get a style, massage, mani/pedi or just chill out and feel pampered? The answer: Salon Couture. For more answers, call now for your appointment.

Now, here's where your day in downtown gets really interesting...

- It's Girls Night Out at Douglas Street Sports Pub from 6-9PM. Ladies receive free admission, free goody bags and the chance to shop-til-you-drop with a variety of vendors. A great way to spend a great night with the girls.

- Beginning at 6:30PM, Villa Verone rolls out the red carpet for another Elgin Person of the Week. This week's EPOW celebrity bartender is Elgin broadcasting legend Jeff Myers from Channel 17's Elgin Today and the Chef Jeff & Jeff Show on WRMN-AM 1410. There's karaoke, free appetizers, dancing and fun with friends!

- Get your motor running and head out to Festival Park for the DNA's first-ever Downtown Elgin Cruise Night - Presented by Ken Stepps. In conjunction with the City of Elgin's Free Movie Night presentation of the movie Cars, the DNA is inviting car enthusiasts to show off their cool cars and vintage vehicles to the movie night crowd. The DNA will also be selling pop, water, popcorn and other treats as a fundraiser to support continuing downtown revitalization efforts.

- Afterwards, stop off at Martini Room or The Afterset for an after-movie cocktail or slide over to the Grand Victoria Casino for some late night gaming excitement.

How's that for a full day? Still not enough? There's always Friday. :)



The Afterset
158 Symphony Way
(847) 608-7570

Al's Cafe & Creamery
43 DuPage Court
(847) 742-1180

Andersen's Engraving
27 N. Grove Avenue
(847) 742-5434

Artistic Framing & Supplies
25 N. Grove Avenue
(847) 741-8811

Bangkok House & Shanghai Restaurant
11 Douglas Avenue
(847) 695-2644

The Centre of Elgin
100 Symphony Way
(847) 531-7000

Domani Cafe
109 E. Highland Avenue
(847) 695-8851

Douglas Street Sports Pub
231 Douglas Avenue
(847) 695-5659

Elgin Antiques & Uniques
203 E. Chicago Street
(847) 606-6284

Elgin Books & Coffee
209 E. Chicago Street
(847) 695-2680

Elgin Jewelers
11 N. State Street
(847) 695-1384

Elgin Public House
219 E. Chicago Street
(847) 468-8810

Festival Park
136 S. Grove Avenue

The Gasthaus
15 N. Grove Avenue
(847) 695-8828

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

Grand Victoria Casino
250 S. Grove Avenue
(847) 468-7000

In the Neighborhood Deli
185 Edison Avenue
(847) 888-9486

La Puesta Del Sol
165 E. Highland Avenue
(847) 468-1416

La Quebrada Restaurant
50 N. Spring Street
(847) 622-7970

La Rosita Bakery
7 N. State Street
(847) 742-6680

Martini Room
161 E. Chicago Street
(847) 741-0349

Pastigel Bakery
154 E. Chicago Street
(847) 429-1969

Ravenheart Coffee
176 E. Chicago Street
(847) 841-8451

Rediscover Records
(inside Two Doors Down Antiques)
207 E. Chicago Street
(847) 741-4300

Salon Couture
176 E. Chicago Street
(847) 488-1465

Shockey Jewelers
18 Douglas Avenue
(847) 742-0113

Spacetaste Gallery
10 Douglas Avenue
(847) 284-0810

Two Doors Down Antiques
207 E. Chicago Street
(847) 741-4300

Toom Toom Thai Restaurant
23 S. Grove Avenue
(847) 531-8755

Villa Verone
13 Douglas Avenue
(847) 742-0263

Wrona Brothers
205 E. Chicago Street
(847) 742-4296

Ziegler's Ace Hardware
215 N. Spring Street
(847) 741-5610

Inaugural Downtown Elgin Cruise Night Motors Into Festival Park on Thursday, August 4

On Thursday, August 4 beginning at 7PM, the Downtown Neighborhood Association of Elgin invites you to crank your engines and motor on down to Festival Park in downtown Elgin for a triple feature of fast-moving family fun, food and a flick.

In conjunction with the City of Elgin's Free Family Movie Night in the Park featuring the hit Disney movie Cars, the DNA rolls out its first ever Downtown Elgin Cruise Night – Presented by Ken Stepps State Farm.

The Cruise Night will showcase classic, cool cars from all eras and styles parked along the walkways in Festival Park. Redmon's Towing is scheduled to bring their antique tow truck out to the park and other unique vehicles will also be on hand.

That night the DNA will also be selling popcorn, soft drinks and other treats to all Cruise Night and Movie Night patrons as well as promoting all things downtown Elgin. Concession proceeds benefit the DNA's downtown revitalization efforts.

For kids and families, the City of Elgin will have a Cars-themed bounce house and a photo booth, where kids can have photos taken with lifelike Cars characters created by ACME Design.

Car enthusiasts who own vehicles they would like to show off at Thursday's Cruise Night or at the final Cruise Night of 2011 scheduled for August 25, are encouraged to contact DNA Promotions Coordinator Jason Pawlowski at 847-488-1456 or e-mail jpawlowski@elginil.org.

For more information about Downtown Elgin Cruise Nights or the Downtown Elgin Car Show on Saturday, September 10 from 9AM-3PM at Elgin Civic Plaza, visit DowntownElgin.com.

This Week at the Downtown Elgin Harvest Market

This Thursday, August 4 is First Thursday time once again at the Downtown Elgin Harvest Market, 200 N. Grove Avenue in the Old Library Lot across from Gail Borden Public Library and next to The Centre of Elgin, which means special extended hours from 10AM-6PM to squeeze in all of these fun events and activities:

New Market Layout - More Parking!

Live Entertainment – Strolling violinist Jennifer Silk between Noon–1:30PM and Me & My Band 4-6PM

“Art at the Market” – a First Thursday’s series made possible by the Palmer Foundation will feature Jeff Turner from In the Neighborhood Deli creating food art for the public to see and taste from 12:30-2PM, including a bag of goodies to practice your food art.

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), Jewelry for You (handcrafted and custom jewelry), Kathryn Longo (lambs made out of clay and real wool, recycled fabric flowers), and Kards by Kay (photo greeting cards)

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

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

New Vendor - Cook, Seal & Process - JamLady with delicious jams, fruit butters, vinegars, etc.

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

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

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

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” to “I Eat My Veggies”. Adult sizes are $15 and Youth 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. Plus get free CFL light bulbs.

Community Booth: International Teams - Promoting "Ride for Refuge" - Fox Valley Bike Ride to raise awareness and funds for refugees and anti-trafficking projects, along with fair trade items for sale.

Find the Downtown Wandering Gnome - find clues posted at the market with a picture of the gnome hiding in a nearby DNA member organization/business. First ten people to find the gnome within the next week will get a prize.

Pre-Register Now for 5th Annual Downtown Elgin Car Show

The 2011 Downtown Elgin Car Show - Presented by Ken Stepps State Farm Insurance Agency returns to the Civic Parking Lot at the intersection of Highland and Douglas Avenues on Saturday, September 10 from 9AM-3PM.

Now in its fifth year, the Car Show will showcase the area's hottest hot rods, classic cars, vintage vehicles, tricked-out trucks and green/alternative fuel vehicles all in one location in the heart of downtown Elgin. There will also be music, food, entertainment, demonstrations, car care clinics, vendor booths and much more!

The Downtown Elgin Car Show is FREE to the public. There is a $5 Registration Fee per participating vehicle. All pre-registered participants will receive a limited edition Downtown Elgin Car Show Dash Plaque at check-in.

Click here to pre-register your vehicle today!

For more information about the Downtown Elgin Car Show or our upcoming Downtown Elgin Cruise Nights on Thursday, August 4 and Thursday, August 25, call DNA Promotions Coordinator Jason Pawlowski at (847) 488-1456, e-mail jpawlowski@elginil.org or visit DowntownElgin.com.

Art & Soul on the Fox/Passeggiata Returns to Downtown Elgin

The Third Annual Art & Soul on the Fox/Passeggiata, produced in cooperation with the City of Elgin by Art for All, will fill downtown Elgin with art and music on DuPage Court, S. Spring Street and S. Grove Avenue on Saturday, July 30 and Sunday, July 31.

Art & Soul on the Fox is open to the public on Saturday from 11AM-6PM - followed by the Passeggiata from 7-10PM Saturday night - and again on Sunday from 11AM-5PM.

To our downtown businesses, please note the following street closures for the weekend:

Spring Street from Chicago Street to Fulton Street will be closed Friday, July 29 at 5PM until the night of Sunday, July 31.

Grove Avenue from DuPage Court to Fulton Street will be closed Saturday, July 30 at 5AM until the night of Sunday, July 31.

This free cultural festival offers a visually captivating environment of juried artists and handcrafted artisans working in a variety of mediums, including ceramics, fiber, glass, jewelry, metal, photography, watercolors, wood and more.

Enjoy local actors in Walkabout: Theatre on Your Feet, as well as local singers, musicians, poets and dancers. In addition, all of the thrones from the popular Adirondacks: Thrones of Summer promotion will be on display and then auctioned off in silent and public auctions throughout the weekend. There will also be creative childrens activities, a bike corral, great food and more.

Here is the line-up of live entertainment scheduled for both days:

Saturday, July 30:

Noon - Heart of Hawaii (hula)
http://divaventures.net/hu​la.html​

1PM - Walkabout Theatre
http://www.elginwalkabout.blogspot.com

2PM - Elgin Opera Training & Performing Ensemble
http://www.elginopera.org/

3PM - Chase Away

4PM - My Lazy Elephant
http://www.facebook.com/My​LazyElephant​

5PM - The Sexy Blues Band

6PM - Fox Valley Bellydance Collective - including performance by Zoh'ra's Jewels!
http://www.facebook.com/pa​ges/Fox-Valley-Bellydance-​Collective/101750756541995

7PM - Projecto 7 & Salsa Dancers
Join the salsa dancers for an evening of dancing under the stars w/special guests Chi-Caribena Designs & Dance (samba)
http://www.chicaribenadesigns.com/​


Sunday, July 31:

Noon - North American Gurning Championship

1PM - Adirondacks-Thrones of Summer Live Auction

2PM - Ballet Folklorico Huehuecoyotl
http://www.bfh.org/

3PM - Blue Tulip Wranglers

4PM - Fox River Trio
http://foxrivertrio.net/in​dex.html​

5PM - Vehicle

6PM - Luna Blues Machine
http://www.thelunabluesmachine.com/​

All questions and concerns about Art & Soul on the Fox/Passeggiata should be directed to Sigi Psimenos at 312-953-8216 or e-mail sigiusa@yahoo.com.

Vote for the DNA's Harvest Market Throne

All of your favorite Adirondacks: Thrones of Summer are on display now thru Thursday, July 28 along the bike path at the Gail Borden Public Library, 270 N. Grove Avenue, and your vote could help determine the winner of The Game of Thrones.

Be sure to vote for DNA's Harvest Market Throne - #8 at the Library or online at GailBorden.info.

Voting closes this Thursday, July 28 at 5PM!

The top ten favorite thrones, as selected by the voting public, will be auctioned off live at Art and Soul on the Fox/Passeggiata on Sunday, July 31 at 1PM on the main stage. The remaining 45 Thrones will be part of the silent auction that begins on Saturday, July 30.

Proceeds benefit sustainable neighborhood projects.

Tie-Dying Demo This Week at Downtown Elgin Harvest Market

The Downtown Elgin Harvest Market - Presented by Alexian Brothers Health System continues this Thursday, July 21 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.

This week from Noon-2PM, Mad Discs and Dyes will conduct a tie-dying demonstration. Market patrons will have the opportunity to first learn this technique and then be able to dye their own white t-shirts (must be 100% cotton) for $5 each. This can be a great way to recycle and rejuvenate older shirts with stains or marks.

Dustin and Mike can also tie-dye shirts for you with white t-shirts available for purchase at $10 each.

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

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!