Sweet Valentine's Values in Downtown Elgin

Looking for a romantic evening on the town this Valentine's Day? Then let Cupid's arrow point you towards Downtown Elgin for a veritable variety of Valentine's activities for you and your special someone.

Here is a heart-shaped sampler box of events courtesy of the Downtown Neighborhood Association of Elgin:

"All You Need is Love" Valentine's Weekend Dinner
Saturday, February 11-Tuesday, February 14

Villa Verone Ristorante Italiano
13 Douglas Avenue
847-742-0263
http://www.VillaVerone.net

Love is in the air at Villa Verone Ristorante Italiano this Valentine's Day. All weekend long through the big day, bring your beloved to VV for a romantic evening filled with delicious food, wine and sweets. For $75 per couple (tax & gratuity not included), guests will receive an appetizer, two entrees, a dessert and a bottle of wine. Make your reservations now!

Salon Couture Valentine's Day Event
Saturday, February 11, 9AM-5PM

Salon Couture
176 E. Chicago Street
847-488-1465
http://www.SalonCouture.biz

Guests will enjoy:
- Complimentary mimosas and pastries
- Complimentary Deep Conditioning Treatments, Hand Massages and Paraffin Treatments
- All products will be 15% off

Spa Packages include:
- Half Hour Facial and Massage - $75
- Hour Facial and Massage - $115
- Make-up and Style from the Blo Dri Bar - $50
- Manicure and Pedicure - $50
- Beauty-on-Demand Facials - $20

There will be Special Love Readings and Chakra & Aura Photography from Crystal Rivers Gifts for only $10 and a representative from Cookie Lee Jewelry will also be on-hand with special offers! Reserve your spot now!

Have a Heart Community Dinner at
The Hemmens Cultural Center
45 Symphony Way
Sunday, February 12, 11AM-2PM

Presented by In the Neighborhood Deli
185 Edison
847-888-9486
http://www.itndeli.com

Chef Jeff Turner from In the Neighborhood Deli, 185 Edison, invites you to attend the 3rd Annual Have a Heart Dinner at Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way.

Volunteers are needed to work the following shifts: 8:30-10:30AM; 10:30AM-1:30PM; and 1:30-3:30PM. Donations of desserts, as well as financial donations payable to Elgin Community Network, will be accepted at In the Neighborhood Deli on Friday, February 10 from 8AM-3PM or at Hemmens from 2-5PM or on the day of the event.

The dinner is for the entire Elgin community. This event is free and no reservations or tickets are needed.

For more information, contact Chef Jeff at itndeli@gmail.com.

Candlelight Dinner at Al's Cafe
Sunday, February 12 and Tuesday, February 14, 4-9PM

Al's Cafe & Creamery
43 Dupage Court
847-742-1180
http://www.AlsCafe.com

Al's Cafe has something special for that someone special in your life...a candlelight dinner!

Chef Tony Jamin has prepared a romantic dinner menu for you and your Valentine. With dishes to choose from including Love Me Tender, Always & Forever, Cupid's Arrow and Eternal Flame, you're sure to ignite your night with dinner by candlelight!

Visit http://www.AlsCafe.com for the complete Candlelight Dinner Menu.

All of the ladies receive a special gift of Chef Tony's amazing hand-rolled truffles! Anyone who purchases $25 in Al's Cafe Gift Certificates will also receive a box of hand-rolled truffles.

Reservations recommended!

Toom's Valentine's Day Special
Tuesday, February 14

Toom Toom Thai Restaurant
23 S. Grove Avenue
847-531-8755
http://www.ToomToomThai.net

On Valentine's Day, Toom Toom Thai Restaurant opens their doors for a special Tuesday of Great Thai Food by Thai People! Cupid (also known as Chef Toom) invites everyone for a free shot of Thai Coffee or Thai Tea with a lunch or dinner purchase.

Bangkok House Valentine's Day Special
Tuesday, February 14

Bangkok House & Shanghai Restaurant
11 Douglas Avenue
847-742-0263

Bangkok House & Shanghai Restaurant, celebrating their 25th Anniversary in business in downtown Elgin this February, invite customers to enjoy a free dessert with any entree after 5PM.

EPH Valentine's Day Dinner Pairing
Tuesday, February 14, 6:30PM

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

On Valentine's Day evening, Elgin Public House invites you and your sweetie to their Valentine's Day Dinner Pairing.

For $60 per person, enjoy a lovingly prepared six-course meal (including reception and dessert courses) each paired with a romantic concoction including a Pomagranite Champagne Cocktail, Windy City Wheat Pale Ale, assorted red and white wines and a Chocolate Pomagranite Martini.

Visit http://www.ElginPublicHouse.com and click on "EVENTS" for the complete Valentine's Day Dinner menu.

Reservations are required! Call now!

Martini Room's Celebration of Romance
Tuesday, February 14, 7:30PM

Martini Room

161 E. Chicago Street

847-741-0349

http://www.MartiniRoomElgin.com

On Valentine's night, Martini Room rolls out the red carpet for you on their Valentine's Day Celebration of Romance to bring you and your significant other an amazing, sensual evening full of guilty pleasures!

Known for their chocolate martinis, Martini Room will become a chocolate lover's heaven! Be prepared to indulge your taste buds with their complimentary Chocolate Fountain, complete with delicious edibles such as strawberries, grapes, pears, vanilla wafers and angel cake!

Valentine's Day specials include Martini Room's Godiva Chocolate Martini for $9 and Chocolate Raspberry Martini, the martini of the month, for $7.

Sign up for their Romantic Raffle with some amazing prizes including a Romantic Spa Day at Trendsetters Salon & Spa valued at $320 as well as Martini Room gift certificates! Winners need not be present to win.

The Larkin Center Sweetheart Auction
Saturday, February 18, 6:30PM-Midnight
Chicago Northwest Marriott
4800 Hoffman Blvd., Hoffman Estates

The Larkin Center, a DNA Community Non-Profit member located at 1212 Larkin Avenue, invites you to Reach for the Stars at their 16th Annual Sweetheart Bachelor and Bachelorette Auction at the Chicago Marriott Northwest, 4800 Hoffman Boulevard in Hoffman Estates.

Tickets are $35 per person (which includes one FREE drink between 6:30-7:30PM). There will be dancing, appetizers, a 50/50 raffle, dessert bar and live & silent auctions. Plus 16 Bachelors and Bachelorettes, including the DNA's Promotions Coordinator Jason Pawlowski, will be up for bid along with some fantastic date packages including:

- Sunset Dinner Cruise for 2 on the Grand Belle of Lake Geneva
- Spring Wine Flight Dinner for 2 at Gordy's Boat House in Fontana, Wisconsin
- Chicago Blackhawks vs Minnesota Wild tickets for 2 in the Bud Light Lounge (includes all food and drinks)
- 3-Hour City Lights Cruise for 2 on Lake Michigan
- Dennis DeYoung concert at the Hemmens on March 16 with dinner for 2 at Villa Verone Ristorante Italiano

You can purchase tickets to the Sweetheart Auction online at http://LarkinCenter.org/Sweetheart.html or call Sharon Prizy at 847-695-5656 x263.

For more information about Downtown Elgin, visit the DNA's website at http://www.DowntownElgin.com.

Resources for Illinois Food/Agriculture Businesses

You would think that a market manager would be off in some sunny area resting her weary bones from the summer’s hectic and fun schedule, but like our vendors, I am busy plotting, planning, learning and improving myself and the Downtown Elgin Harvest Market. As some of you know we already have an ongoing survey determining the best times and days for this year’s market. I have learned that cities and events are always changing and evolving to accommodate the needs of its residents, attendees, and existing and potential customers.

I recently took a trip to Springfield where I attended a pre-workshop that led up to the 2012 Illinois Specialty Crops, Agritourism and Organic conference called “Farmers Markets: Creating Resources and Partnerships for a Healthy Community”. I learned quite a bit in the areas of the LINK program (which we will be unveiling this year) as well as new state laws. I also saw some really informative presentations about a variety of topics some more broad and some more specific. I even shared and networked with other market managers from all over the stat,e including Lisa Bralts from the Urbana Market at the Square, Keith Johnson from the Woodstock Farmers Market, Roxanne Junge with the Glenview Market, Lindsey Engelsman from DeKalb’s Farmers Market and Dee Basile with the Aurora Farmers Markets which is celebrating their 100^th year!

I particularly wanted to give a heads up on four possible resources for Illinois businesses, especially when it comes to agriculture and food.  Hopefully what I share will be helpful:

1)       Illinois Products Logo Program 

This program from the Illinois Department of Agriculture identifies Illinois products in various retail establishments – from major grocery stores to local community farmers markets.  Currently over 500 food and agribusinesses utilize this logo. The great thing is that any entity that produces, processes, packages or manufactures a food or agribusiness product in Illinois can be authorized to participate in the logo program – and it is FREE of CHARGE.

2)      Market Maker 

This is another great FREE marketing tool for anyone that does anything with food.  It is a web-based resource that connects farmers, fishermen, processors, distributors, food retailers, and consumers. The thing I really liked about it, aside from being another way for potential customers and vendors to find us, is that it contains demographics and business data for you to identify markets by those characteristics; enables you to find lists of potential marketing partners by location, and also notifies you when someone pops up in your area.

3)      Organic Cost Share Program

Though several of our vendors could be considered organic, most of them are too small to afford the certification costs. This wonderful program exists to alleviate that burden on small businesses who are producers and handlers.  If eligible this program will reimburse that business a portion of the costs of organic certification, up to 75% of the costs up to a maximum of $750.

4)       Local Producer Loans/Grants – THEY DO EXIST

·         Whole Foods Market Loan Program 

      Loans range from $1,000 to $100,000 and can be for things like purchasing more animals, investing in new equipment or converting to organic production. 

·         SARE (Sustainable Agriculture Research and Education)

     Grants are available by region and state.  I was quite excited to read about all the monies they gave out, and the wide range of recipients such as: research and education, graduate student projects, professional development, to local farmers and ranchers, and youth/educators.  Definitely worth looking at. 

·         Though harder to get, it is worth mentioning that the Illinois Department of Agriculture usually lists federal grants as well on their webpage. 

·         Illinois Finance Authority 

      This group offers quite the list of lending tools to service farmers and agribusinesses with their pressing capital needs.  Since 2004, they have supported 561 businesses, approved $685 million dollars in financing, and have served over 80+ counties in Illinois.

RSVP Now for Out to Lunch at Al's Cafe, ArtSpace Tour

The Downtown Neighborhood Association of Elgin's first Out to Lunch of 2012 is Tuesday, January 31 at Al's Cafe & Creamery, 43 Dupage Court.

Before sitting down for a delicious buffet lunch, Out to Lunch guests will be treated to an exclusive guided tour of the new ArtSpace site, at S. Spring and Dupage, by John Shales of Shales-McNutt Construction, beginning at Noon.

Following the tour and Q&A, guests will gather at Al's Cafe & Creamery for a delicious buffet style lunch featuring Cafe Salad, Homemade Mashed Potatoes, Danish Frikadeller, Beef Bourgignon, Penne Pasta, Al's Famous Malts, and Non-Alchoholic Beverages, Coffee or Tea.

Price is $12 per person all inclusive with tax & tip included. Cash only. Space is limited. Reservations required!

RSVP with your name and e-mail address by phone at 847-488-1456, by e-mail jpawlowski@elginil.org or via Online RSVP form by no later than Friday, January 27.

For more information about Downtown Elgin events like Out to Lunch, visit www.DowntownElgin.com.

Residents to gain more access to healthy, active lifestyle options through local grant programming

Three Elgin organizations – Downtown Neighborhood Association, the City of Elgin and Highland Fellowship Church – were among 11 selected to receive grant funding from the Making Kane County Fit for Kids Consortium.

The grants, ranging in amount from $1,200 to $10,000, will be used to reverse the rising tide of childhood obesity in Kane County through a variety of programs designed to promote active lifestyles and increase access to fresh fruits and vegetables.

The city of Elgin was selected to receive two grants – one for $10,000 for the Elgin Community Garden Network to expand the number of community garden sites through the city and one for $1,500 for the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee to support the Second Annual Bike for Life event.

Highland Fellowship Church will receive a $4,000 grant to expand a community garden on their church site where local at-risk families can learn how to grow food for themselves and for local food pantries.

DNA will receive a $3,500 grant to purchase equipment to accept debit, credit and LINK cards at the Downtown Elgin Harvest Market. The initiative will allow lower income residents greater opportunity to purchase healthy, locally grown and produced foods, and also provides an economic boost to the local growers and vendors of the area by increasing their customer base.

“We will now be able to open up the market to an underserved population, giving them more access to locally produced foods and to their community,” said Tonya Hudson, DNA executive director. “When they shop at the market, they will also see cooking demonstrations by local chefs, exhibits by local artists, performances by local musicians and more. We hope the experience will encourage more engagement in the downtown and in the community.”

Grant recipients were chosen by the Consortium based on their proposals to implement strategies that are contained in the Fit Kids 2020 Plan. This is the second time this year that the Consortium has distributed the grants.

The Fit Kids 2020 Plan was developed by parents, physicians, engineers, educators, planners, public health professionals, transportation experts, faith leaders, local policy makers and more. The Funders Consortium’s members are: the Community Foundation of the Fox River Valley, the United Way of Elgin, the Forest Preserve District of Kane County, the Kane County Regional Office of Education and the Kane County Departments of Health, Development and Transportation.

Window Wonderland Decorating Contest Results

The Downtown Neighborhood Association of Elgin thanks everyone who braved the elements and rocked in the holiday season in downtown Elgin at Saturday's Rockin' in a Window Wonderland – Presented by Provena Saint Joseph Hospital.

After tabulating the judges' ballots and collecting all of the People's Choice Award votes from both paper ballots and online, we are pleased to announce the winners of this year's Window Wonderland Window Decorating Contest:

Gifford Park Association, decorated FutureLink IT, 164 E. Chicago Street, was selected as the Best Overall Window as determined by our judging panel. For their efforts they will receive a $500 Cash Prize and will be recognized at an upcoming Elgin City Council meeting.

Other winners include:

Business – Kirkpatrick, Jones & Herzog, 19 S. Spring Street;

Children's – Highland Christian Academy, decorated 62 S. Grove Avenue;

Open – YWCA Elgin, 220 E. Chicago Street;

People's Choice – Highland Christian Academy, decorated 62 S. Grove Avenue

Each of these organizations will receive $50 in Downtown Elgin Gift Certificates and will also be recognized at an upcoming City Council meeting.

To see a slideshow of all participating decorated windows, click here!

For more information about downtown Elgin events or to find out how you or your organization can become a DNA Member in 2012, call (847) 488-1456, e-mail downtownelgin@gmail.com or visit DowntownElgin.com

DNA & Elgin Symphony Team Up for Discounted Holiday Concert Tickets

The Downtown Neighborhood Association of Elgin and the Elgin Symphony Orchestra are teaming up once again to offer DNA members and fans a chance to enjoy one of downtown Elgin's most treasured cultural institutions during the holiday season at a discounted price.

This coming weekend the ESO gets to the heart of the holidays with "'Tis the Season," a traditional concert filled with talented guest artists & beloved carols.

When ordering your tickets by phone, mention the DNA's "Top 10" eblast to receive a 10% discount on your ticket order for any performance of "'Tis the Season". You can also use the coupon code "11-DNA" when ordering tickets online at ElginSymphony.org

Specific performance dates and times for "'Tis the Season" are:

Saturday, December 10 - 3:30PM and 8PM
Sunday, December 11 - 3:30PM

All performances are held at the Hemmens Cultural Center, 45 Symphony Way in downtown Elgin.

Featured soloists are Rich Ridenour, much-loved pianist and previous guest artist with the ESO, and Elizabeth Norman, the Chicago-based soprano who has wowed ESO audiences. Special appearances by Choral-Aires Chorus & Elgin Children's Chorus.

To purchase tickets, please call the box office at 847-888-4000 or order online at ElginSymphony.org.

After the show, the DNA invites you to enjoy one of downtown Elgin's many fine eateries for dinner or drinks. For more information about downtown restaurants and bars, visit DowntownElgin.com.

Workshop to Discuss “Windows of Opportunity” in Downtown Elgin

The public is invited to participate in the Downtown Neighborhood Association of Elgin’s Downtown Brainstorm workshop on December 14, 6 to 8 p.m. at the Gail Borden Public Library in downtown Elgin.

The workshop’s focus is on downtown Elgin’s “Windows of Opportunity” – specifically what businesses residents, visitors and existing business owners would like to see in downtown in the next few years.

Workshop attendees will work in groups to identify target customer groups, existing downtown business clusters, complementary business opportunities and available spaces in which to locate them.

Space is limited. RSVP to DNA at (847) 488-1456 or downtownelgin@gmail.com or @downtownelgin on Facebook and Twitter.

This is the third in the series of Downtown Brainstorm workshops. Held in November, 2010 and March, 2011, the workshops are designed to be interactive so attendees can meet new people, provide input and learn more about downtown Elgin. Each workshop has produced valuable information that DNA has used in planning its programming, projects and special events.

DNA’s Downtown Brainstorm was recently recognized by the Illinois Main Street Program with a 2011 Lieutenant Governor’s Award for Excellence in Downtown Revitalization.

Window Wonderland Decorating Contest Participants

The following is a list of participating windows in the 2011 Window Wonderland window decorating contest. Pick up your printed ballots at the DNA Office on Saturday, December 3 beginning at Noon. Paper ballots must be submitted by 5PM on December 3.

You can also VOTE ONLINE for the People's Choice Award at www.DowntownElgin.com. Online voting concludes on Monday, December 5 at 5PM.

To vote, you will need to enter the code number (example: B-100) either on your printed ballot or in your online ballot for the entry you feel is the "best of the best" and most effectively represents the theme of this year's event, "Rockin' in a Window Wonderland".

View photos of most of the participating windows in the Window Wonderland Photo Album.

2011 WINDOW WONDERLAND DECORATING CONTEST PARTICIPANTS

B-100
The Annex Antiques
201 E. Chicago Street
Business

B-101
Demi and Cooper Advertising
18 Villa Court
Business

O-200
Downtown Elgin Harvest Market decorating
59 Douglas Avenue
Open

B-102
Elgin Antiques and Uniques
203 E. Chicago Street
Business

O-201
Elgin Citizens Police Academy decorating
Elgin Police Department
151 Douglas Avenue
Open

O-202
Elgin Junior Service Board decorating
Al's Café
43 DuPage Court
Open

O-203
Elgin Lodge No. 117 decorating
56 S. Grove Avenue
Open

C-300
Elgin River Rats HS Rugby
Steffen, Kelly and Steffen
17 Douglas Avenue
Business

B-103
Elgin Symphony Orchestra
20 DuPage Court
Business

B-104
Extreme Wireless
119 S. Grove Avenue
Business

O-204
Gifford Park Association decorating
Future Link IT
164 E. Chicago Street
Open

C-301
Highland Christian Academy decorating
62 S. Grove Avenue
Children's

O-205
Holy Trinity Lutheran Church decorating
165 E. Chicago Street
Open

O-206
Judson University decorating
Ken Stepps State Farm
111 Douglas Avenue
Open

B-105
Kirkpatrick, Jones and Herzog
19 S. Spring Street
Business

O-207
Our Lady of the Holy Rosary
205 Fulton Street
Open

O-208
Puerto Rican Heritage Organization decorating
Montana Realty
8 Douglas Avenue
Open

B-106
Ravenheart Coffee
176 E. Chicago Street
Business

B-107
The Razor’s Edge
55 Douglas Avenue
Business

B-108
Rediscover Records
207 E. Chicago Street
Business

B-109
Salon Couture
176 E. Chicago Street
Business

B-110
Shockey Jewelers
18 Douglas Avenue
Business

B-111
Simple Balance Holistic Center
221 E. Chicago Street
Business

C-302
Spring Hill Gymnastics decorating
61 S. Grove Avenue
Children's

O-209
SWAN decorating
SpaceTaste Gallery
10 Douglas Avenue
Open

B-112
Two Doors Down Antiques
207 E. Chicago Street
Business

B-113
WRMN's Radio Shopping Show
22 Douglas Avenue
Business

B-114
Wrona Brothers
205 E. Chicago Street
Business

O-210
YWCA Elgin
220 E. Chicago Street
Open

Window Wonderland Ready to Rock Downtown Elgin

It's almost here! Downtown Elgin Window Wonderland - Presented by Provena Saint Joseph Hospital, returns to the streets of downtown Elgin this Saturday, December 3 from 12-5PM.

In addition to all of the beautifully decorated storefront windows, decorated in this year's event theme of "Rockin' in a Window Wonderland", lining Elgin's downtown, Window Wonderland offers the following list of activities and locations (subject to change), including:

Real Live Reindeer - Santa's Crew Reindeer fly into Elgin's Civic Parking Lot (Highland and Douglas Avenues) from 12-4PM.

Holiday Horse Drawn Carriage - Presented by Hampton, Lenzini and Renwick. Enjoy a festive, horse-drawn carriage ride up and down Douglas Avenue. The carriage will also drop off and pick up visitors at the Elgin Winter Market, 166 Symphony Way. Round trip rides are $5 per person (kids 5 and under FREE) and can be purchased at the Civic Parking Lot (Highland and Douglas) or at the Winter Market. The Horse Drawn Carriage will operate from 12-4PM.

Live Nativity Scene with Nativity Animal Petting Zoo - First United Methodist Church, 215 E. Highland Avenue, will again be performing the live nativity in front of the church from 12-4PM. Kids can also enjoy petting and feeding all of the nativity animals. Nativity performances take place every half hour. In between performances, FUMC invites you inside to partake in their Holiday Open House with refreshments and tours of the church.

Kris Kringle Mart - Browse dozens of holiday crafts and unique gift ideas at our special Window Wonderland Kris Kringle Mart at 215 E. Chicago Street from 12-5PM. The Kris Kringle Mart will open Friday, December 2 and remain open until Sunday, December 4.

Ice Sculpting Demo - Artist Joe Gagnepain will demonstrate his ice sculpting skills from 12-2:30PM by showing guests how to transform a block of ice into an intricate holiday work of art in DuPage Court near the Elgin Symphony Orchestra offices.

Rockin' Santa - He's part Santa, part Elvis but he's all about rockin' your Window Wonderland! Join Rockin' Santa as he performs all your holiday favorites (and maybe a few you haven't heard before) at Villa Verone, 13 Douglas Avenue, from 12:30-2PM, and then at Ravenheart Coffee, 176 E. Chicago Street from 2:30-3:30PM! (Times subject to change)

Holiday Passport - Beginning at Noon, kids and families can pick up a free goody bag at the DNA Office, 2 Douglas Avenue, containing menus and coupons from downtown businesses as well as an exclusive Window Wonderland Adventure Kit containing: a map detailing the day's activities and passport stops, a People's Choice Award window decorating ballot and a secret message decoder. To decode the message and redeem your free Photo with Santa and gift at Elgin Public House, visit all of the passport stops and write down the codes on the posters at each stop to reveal your super secret message from Santa before turning it into our Elves at Elgin Public House.

Photos with Santa - Presented by Elgin Public House. After visiting all of the passport stops, turn in  your decoded message to Santa's helpers at EPH, 219 E. Chicago Street, and get your photos taken with the big guy himself from 2-4PM. You will receive a printed photo in a keepsake holiday card (while supplies last) and a secret Santa gift!

Window Decorating Contest/People's Choice Balloting - Be sure to check out all of the beautiful decorated windows and vote for your favorite in the People's Choice Window Decorating Award Voting. Ballots will be available to pick up at the DNA Office, 2 Douglas Avenue, beginning at Friday, December 2. You can also VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITE WINDOW ONLINE throughout the weekend. Online voting concludes on Monday, December 5 at 5PM.

The day culminates with the City of Elgin's Tree Lighting Ceremony at 5PM in front of City Hall at 150 Dexter Court. The Elgin Children's Chorus will perform followed by Council Members and City Staff helping to throw the switch to officially usher in the holiday season in Elgin.

Beginning Friday, December 2 you can pick up your Window Wonderland Adventure Kit at the DNA Office at 2 Douglas Avenue or at other downtown locations, or download at DowntownElgin.com.

Winners of the Window Decorating Contest will be announced the week after Window Wonderland. Three winners will be selected by our judging panel in the categories of Open, Business and Childrens. Each category winner receives a $50 Downtown Elgin Gift Certificate. The People's Choice Award winner will also receive a $50 Downtown Elgin Gift Certificate. One overall winner selected by our judging panel will win a $500 Cash Prize.

CLICK TO SEE A COMPLETE LIST OF PARTICIPATING DECORATED WINDOWS

Thank you to our valued sponsors Provena Saint Joseph Hospital, Hampton, Lenzini and Renwick, Elgin Public House, Judson University and Elgin Junior Service Board.

For more information about Downtown Elgin Window Wonderland, contact DNA Promotions Coordinator Jason Pawlowski at (847) 488-1456 or e-mail jpawlowski@elginil.org.

List of Participating Windows in Window Wonderland Decorating Contest (to date)

This Saturday, December 3, downtown Elgin will be rockin' in the holiday season as the DNA's Window Wonderland - Presented by Provena Saint Joseph Hospital returns to the streets of downtown Elgin from Noon-5PM.

In addition to all of the wonderful activities and attractions available around downtown, the highlight of the day will be the opportunity to visit all of our beautifully decorated storefront windows and even judge for yourselves which ones are your favorites in our People's Choice Award voting.

The following is a list of the addresses of confirmed windows to date that will be decorated in the theme of this year's event, "Rockin' in a Window Wonderland", as well as the participating decorating group and the category in which they will be competing:

Demi and Cooper Advertising
18 Villa Court
Business

Downtown Elgin Harvest Market decorating
59 Douglas Avenue
Open

Elgin Antiques and Uniques
203 E. Chicago Street
Business

Elgin Citizens Police Academy decorating
Elgin Police Department
151 Douglas Avenue
Open

Elgin Junior Service Board decorating
Al's Café
43 DuPage Court
Open

Elgin Lodge No. 117 decorating
56 S. Grove Avenue
Open

Elgin River Rats High School Rugby decorating
Steffen Kelly and Steffen
17 Douglas Avenue
Open

Elgin Symphony Orchestra
20 DuPage Court
Business

Extreme Wireless
119 S. Grove Avenue
Business

Gifford Park Association decorating
Future Link IT
164 E. Chicago Street
Open

Highland Fellowship Church decorating
62 S. Grove Avenue
Childrens

Holy Trinity Lutheran Church decorating
165 E. Chicago Street
Open

Judson University decorating
Ken Stepps State Farm
111 Douglas Avenue
Open

Kirkpatrick, Jones and Herzog
19 S. Spring Street
Business

Our Lady of the Holy Rosary
205 Fulton Street
Open

Puerto Rican Heritage Organization decorating
Montana Realty
8 Douglas Avenue
Open

Ravenheart Coffee
176 E. Chicago Street
Business

Rediscover Records
207 E. Chicago Street
Business

Salon Couture
176 E. Chicago Street
Business

Shockey Jewelers
18 Douglas Avenue
Business

Simple Balance Holistic Center
221 E. Chicago Street
Business

Spring Hill Gymnastics decorating
61 S. Grove Avenue
Childrens

SWAN decorating
SpaceTaste Gallery
10 Douglas Avenue
Open

The Annex Antiques
201 E. Chicago Street
Business

The Centre of Elgin
100 Symphony Way
Open

Two Doors Down Antiques
207 E. Chicago Street
Business

WRMN's The Radio Shopping Show
22 Douglas Avenue
Business

Wrona Brothers
205 E. Chicago Street
Business

YWCA Elgin
220 E. Chicago Street
Open

All windows will be marked with appropriate signage to indicate they are a participating window as well as a unique corresponding category code. Ballots for the People's Choice Award will be included inside the Window Wonderland adventure packet. You must submit your People's Choice Award ballot to the DNA office at 2 Douglas Avenue by 5PM on Monday, December 5. You can also vote online at DowntownElgin.com starting December 2.

Our judging panel will score each window based on a variety of criteria. Winners in each category will win $50 in Downtown Elgin Gift Certificates. The group or business whose window is selected as the Best Overall Window will win $500 CASH!

Thank you to our Presenting Sponsor: Provena Saint Joseph Hospital.

Thanks also to our Event Sponsors: Hampton, Lenzini and Renwick; Kirkpatrick, Jones and Herzog Insurance; Tom's Auto Clinic; Judson University; Elgin Public House and Elgin Junior Service Board.

Give the Gift of Downtown Gift Certificate Promotion

The Downtown Neighborhood Association of Elgin encourages everyone to shop local this holiday season by patronizing our downtown businesses for your holiday shopping needs. Downtown Elgin Gift Certificates are a great way to not only support our small businesses but to Give the Gift of Downtown to friends and loved ones!

Now thru December 30 during the DNA's Give the Gift of Downtown Promotion:

- Buy at least $50 in Downtown Gift Certificates and receive one $5 Downtown Gift Certificate FREE!
- Buy at least $100 in Downtown Gift Certificates and receive one $10 Downtown Gift Certificate FREE!
* Limit one special promotional rate offer per person, per household during the length of the promotion.

Downtown Elgin Gift Certificates are available in denominations of $5 and $10 and are accepted at over 60 of the following downtown businesses:

RESTAURANTS AND BARS

Al's Cafe and Creamery
43 DuPage Court

Bangkok House and Shanghai Restaurant
11 Douglas Avenue

Camaroncito Loco
21 N. State Street

Casa Lara Restaurant
7 Clock Tower Plaza

Domani Cafe
109 E. Highland Avenue

Douglas Street Sports Pub
231 Douglas Avenue

Eaton's Redwood Inn
118 W. Chicago Street

El Faro #1
9 N. State Street

Elgin Public House
219 E. Chicago Street

The Gasthaus
15 N. Grove Avenue

La Rosita Bakery
9 N. State Street

La Quebrada Restaurant
50 N. Spring Street

Martini Room
161 E. Chicago Street

Medusa's
209 E. Chicago Street

Pastigel Bakery
154 E. Chicago Street

Ravenheart Coffee
176 E. Chicago Street

Spanky's Gyros III
51 Clock Tower Plaza

Toom Toom Thai Restaurant
23 S. Grove Avenue

Villa Verone
13 Douglas Avenue

RETAIL AND SERVICES

Andersen's
27 N. Grove Avenue

The Annex Antiques
201 E. Chicago Street

Artistic Framing and Supplies
25 N. Grove Avenue

Budget Signs
20 S. Spring Street

Butera Market (this location only)
3 Clock Tower Plaza

Central Barber Shop
172 E. Chicago Street

Collingbourne's Interesting Things
219 W. Highland Avenue

Crawford's Automotive
151 N. Spring Street

Crucial Cuts
15 Ziegler Court

Divine Touch Salon
15 N. State Street

Elgin Antiques and Uniques
203 E. Chicago Street

Elgin Books and Coffee
209 E. Chicago Street

Elgin Jewelers
11 N. State Street

Extreme Wireless
117 S. Grove Avenue

Fadez and Bladez
9 N. Grove Avenue

Fusion Mind-Body Studio
221 E. Chicago Street

Integrity Beauty Salon
217 E. Chicago Street

JJ Peppers Food Store
10 S. State Street

JR Photographics
164 Division Street

Kellenberger Auto
217 Symphony Way

Kerygma Piano
164 Division Street

Kim's Black Belt Academy
5 S. Spring Street

Nick's Liquors
71-77 Clock Tower Plaza

Pittsburgh Paints
266 Kimball Street

The Razor's Edge
55 Douglas Avenue

Rediscover Records
207 E. Chicago Street

Salon Couture
176 E. Chicago Street

Shockey Jewelers
18 Douglas Avenue

Simple Balance Holistic Center
221 E. Chicago Street

SpaceTaste Gallery
10 Douglas Avenue

Studio One Hair Design
151 E. Highland Avenue

Super Print
160 E. Chicago Street

Tom's Auto Clinic
264 Prairie Street

Sophie's Jewelry
125 S. Grove Avenue

Tongue N Chic Dental Boutique
14 Douglas Avenue

Top Notch Tatoo
216 E. Chicago Street

Two Doors Down Antiques
207 E. Chicago Street

Wrona Brothers
205 E. Chicago Street

Ziegler's Ace Hardware
215 N. Spring Street

ENTERTAINMENT

Elgin OPERA
350 Park Street

Elgin Symphony Orchestra
20 DuPage Court

Elgin Theatre Company
350 Park Street

Janus Theatre Company
164 Division Street, 8th Floor

DNA Honors Businesses, Volunteers in Roaring '20s Style

The Downtown Neighborhood Association of Elgin celebrated downtown Elgin in the Roaring ‘20s last Thursday by transforming the Grand Victoria Casino’s Fox River Room into a 1920’s-style speakeasy called “The Blind Tiger” for the organization’s annual Awards Gala.

The DNA handed out seven awards to individuals, organizations and businesses that had a positive impact on downtown Elgin over the past 12 months.

Extraordinary Volunteers: Armida and Joe Dominguez;

Outstanding Member Business: Elgin Public House;

Outstanding Partner Business: In the Neighborhood Deli;

Remarkable Renovation: Senior Services Associates;

Excellence in Business: Villa Verone;

Above and Beyond Award: Krisilee Murphy;

President’s Award: ACME Design

Click here to view a slideshow of the evening > > >

DNA Board President Karin Jones and Board Member Armida Dominguez also celebrated the lives of former DNA Board Members, Patricia Keeney and Steve Munson, both of whom passed away during the last year.

To lend to the evening’s golden ambience, cast members from Janus Theatre portrayed fictional ‘20s characters that interacted with guests and performed Vaudevillian musical numbers during dinner hour.

A judging panel also selected both the best dressed “guy” and “doll” whose attire was most reflective of the ‘20s theme. The winners were Alex Pecharich and Nikki Adams Hutcherson, who each received $25 in downtown Elgin gift certificates.

The DNA Awards Gala was presented by TranSystems, Landmark Contractors, Grand Victoria Casino and the City of Elgin. Sponsors included Sherman Health, Shales McNutt Construction, Janus Theatre, Future Link IT, Forthwrite Message Boards, Hitchcock Design Group, Nick’s Liquors and VTS Investigations.

Rockin' in a Window Wonderland

It's beginning to look a lot like Downtown Elgin Window Wonderland - Presented by Provena Saint Joseph Hospital, taking place Saturday, December 3 from 12-5PM in the streets of Downtown Elgin.

Scheduled activities and locations (subject to change) include:

Real Live Reindeer - Santa's Crew Reindeer fly into Elgin's Civic Parking Lot (Highland and Douglas Avenues) from 12-4PM

Holiday Horse Drawn Carriage - Presented by Hampton, Lenzini and Renwick. Enjoy a festive, horse-drawn carriage ride up and down Douglas Avenue. The carriage will also drop off and pick up visitors at the Elgin Winter Market, 166 Symphony Way. Round trip rides are $5 per person (kids 5 and under FREE) and can be purchased at the Civic Parking Lot (Highland and Douglas) or at the Winter Market. The Horse Drawn Carriage will operate from 12-3PM

Live Nativity Scene with Nativity Animal Petting Zoo - First United Methodist Church, 215 E. Highland Avenue, will again be performing the live nativity in front of the church from 12-4PM. Kids can also enjoy petting and feeding all of the nativity animals. Nativity performances take place every half hour. In between performances, FUMC invites you inside to partake in their Holiday Open House with refreshments and tours of the church.

Kris Kringle Mart - Browse dozens of holiday crafts and unique gift ideas at our special Window Wonderland Kris Kringle Mart at 215 E. Chicago Street from 12-5PM. The Kris Kringle Mart will open Friday, December 2 and remain open until Sunday, December 4.

Ice Sculpting Demo - Artist Joe Gagnepain will demonstrate his ice sculpting skills by showing guests how to transform a block of ice into an intricate holiday work of art in DuPage Court.

Rockin' Santa - He's part Santa and part Elvis but he's all about rockin' your Window Wonderland! Join Rockin' Santa as he performs all your holiday favorites (and maybe a few you haven't heard before) at Villa Verone, 13 Douglas Avenue, from 12:30-2PM, and Ravenheart Coffee, 176 E. Chicago Street from 2:30-3:30PM! (Times subject to change)

Holiday Passport - Beginning at Noon, kids and families can pick up a free goody bag at the DNA Office, 2 Douglas Avenue, containing menus and coupons from downtown businesses as well as an exclusive Window Wonderland Adventure Kit containing: a map detailing the day's activities and passport stops, a People's Choice Award window decorating ballot and a secret message decoder. To decode the message and redeem your free Photo with Santa and gift at Elgin Public House, visit all of the passport stops and write down the codes on the posters at each stop to reveal your super secret message from Santa before turning it into our Elves at Elgin Public House.

Photos with Santa - Presented by Elgin Public House. After visiting all of the passport stops, turn in  your decoded message to Santa's helpers at EPH, 219 E. Chicago Street, and get your photos taken with the big guy himself from 2-4PM. You will receive a printed photo in a keepsake holiday card (while supplies last) and a secret Santa gift!

Window Decorating Contest/People's Choice Balloting - Be sure to check out all of the beautiful decorated windows and vote for your favorite in the People's Choice Window Decorating Award Voting. Ballots will be available to pick up at the DNA Office, 2 Douglas Avenue, beginning at Friday, December 2. You can also VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITE WINDOW ONLINE throughout the weekend (the link will be active beginning Friday, December 2 at Noon).

The day culminates with the City of Elgin's Tree Lighting Ceremony at 5PM in front of City Hall at 150 Dexter Court. The Elgin Children's Chorus will perform followed by Council Members and City Staff helping to throw the switch to officially usher in the holiday season in Elgin.

Beginning Friday, December 2 you can pick up your Window Wonderland Adventure Kit at the DNA Office at 2 Douglas Avenue or at other downtown locations, or download at DowntownElgin.com.

Winners of the Window Decorating Contest will be announced the week after Window Wonderland. Three winners will be selected by our judging panel in the categories of Open, Business and Childrens. Each category winner receives a $50 Downtown Elgin Gift Certificate. The People's Choice Award winner will also receive a $50 Downtown Elgin Gift Certificate. One overall winner selected by our judging panel will win a $500 Cash Prize.

CLICK TO SEE A COMPLETE LIST OF PARTICIPATING DECORATED WINDOWS AND VOTE FOR YOUR FAVORITE ONLINE!

Thank you to our valued sponsors Provena Saint Joseph Hospital, Hampton, Lenzini and Renwick, and Elgin Public House.

For more information about Downtown Elgin Window Wonderland, contact DNA Promotions Coordinator Jason Pawlowski at (847) 488-1456 or e-mail jpawlowski@elginil.org.

Decorate a Window and You Could Stuff Your Stocking with $500 Cash!

Attention local artists, schools, neighborhood associations, non-profits, businesses and community groups! DNA is offering a $500 Cash Prize for our 2011 downtown window decorating contest as part of this year's "Rockin' in a Window Wonderland" holiday event on Saturday, December 3, 12-5PM in downtown Elgin.

Windows should be decorated to the "Rockin' in a Window Wonderland" theme, incorporating holiday music and performance themes in the window's visuals, props and messages. Bonus points are given for entries that bring the theme to life during the event on December 3. Judging categories include Business, Children's, Open and a People's Choice Award. Winners in each category receive a $50 Downtown Elgin Gift Certificate, and one overall winner will be chosen by a panel of judges to receive the overall $500 cash prize.

Window decorating takes place throughout the month of November. Judging takes place on Saturday, December 3 and windows stay up until January 2. Groups can request a specific downtown storefront window or our committee can assign you one.

If your group is interested in participating in the 2011 Window Wonderland Window Decorating Contest, please download the participation form, complete and submit to:

DNA
Attn: Window Wonderland Committee
2 Douglas Avenue
Elgin, IL 60120

Completed participation forms and any applicable fees are due by no later than Friday, November 11.

Download Window Wonderland Participation Form > > >

If you have any questions, please contact the Downtown Neighborhood Association of Elgin at (847) 488-1456.

Elgin Commerce Building Debuts New Business Center

On Thursday, November 3 from 4-6PM, the Elgin Commerce Building, 40 DuPage Ct, invites you to attend an Open House for their beautiful, brand new Business Center. Light refreshments will be served.

The Business Center offers over 2,200 sq. ft., 9 unique offices for lease, conference room, kitchenette and common work area. These are great opportunities for start-up businesses looking for office space.

For more info about the Elgin Commerce Building's new Business Center and Open House, contact Chris Kravetz at ck@ckrealtor.com.

Toom Toom Thai Celebrates 2-Year Anniversary with Thailand Flood Fundraiser

On Wednesday, November 2, Toom Toom Thai Restaurant, 23 S. Grove Avenue, will be celebrating their two-year anniversary in downtown Elgin.

To mark the occasion, Chef Uthaiwan (Toom) Wiitanen is hosting a day-long fundraiser with the proceeds benefiting The Princess Foundation, which provides relief and support to the victims of the recent floods in Thailand.

From 11:30AM until 9PM, in lieu of the restaurant’s traditional lunch and dinner menu, guests will be treated to a special menu of Vegetable Egg Rolls, Chicken Pot Stickers, and Beef, Chicken or Vegetable Noodle Soup. All food is free with a donation.

At 12PM, representatives from the Downtown Neighborhood Association of Elgin along with the Elgin Area Chamber of Commerce and the Elgin Area Convention and Visitors Bureau will conduct a brief ceremony congratulating Wiitanen on her two years of business in downtown Elgin. The ceremony will conclude with Mayor David Kaptain reading a proclamation recognizing November 2, 2011 as Toom Toom Thai Restaurant Day in Elgin.

In addition to collecting donations, there will also be silent auctions for unique prizes as well.

For more information about the, please contact Chef Toom Wiitanen at (847) 531-8755.

DNA Honored at Illinois Main Street Awards Dinner

GALESBURG, IL - On Wednesday, October 26, the Downtown Neighborhood Association of Elgin was honored with two Illinois Main Street awards for downtown revitalization from at the organization’s 2011 Awards Dinner at Soangetaha Country Club in Galesburg, Illinois.

Executive Director Tonya Hudson and members of the DNA Board of Directors and Staff accepted the Lt. Governor’s Award for Downtown Revitalization in the Outstanding Organization Project category for the DNA’s Downtown Brainstorm: an interactive planning workshop about downtown Elgin addressing a different topic of relevance to the community.

Promotions Coordinator Jason Pawlowski accepted the Lt. Governor’s Award for Downtown Revitalization in the Outstanding Promotion category for Downtown Madness – a social media promotion that pitted the signature drinks and dishes of downtown bars and eateries in a March Madness style bracket tournament where the public’s votes determined the winners of each match-up.

The Awards Dinner capped off three days of workshops, seminars and networking opportunities at the 2011 Illinois Main Street Conference in Galesburg, in which over 40 different Illinois Main Street communities from across the state participated.

As part of the conference, Hudson and Pawlowski also presented an educational workshop about social media strategy for Main Street organizations entitled “Social Media on Main Street”.

Halloween Day-Night Double Header in Downtown Elgin

Downtown Elgin is THE place to be this Halloween Weekend!

On Saturday, October 29 from 10AM-4PM, the DNA once again presents Elgin's Halloween Howl - Presented by Alexian Brothers Health System & Ken Stepps State Farm - a family-friendly afternoon of frightfully fun festivities in downtown Elgin.

Schedule of Events:

10AM-1PM - Sherman Health's Halloween Family Fun Fair at The Centre of Elgin, 100 Symphony Way, featuring family-friendly activities and a kids costume contest

Noon-4PM - Trick or Treating at downtown Elgin businesses

1-3PM - Elgin Public Museum's Bone Hunt - a fun Halloween archeological dig on the grass in front of The Hemmens, 45 Symphony Way

1-3PM - Midwest Dance Collective Teaching the Thriller Dance - under the direction of Ellen Werksman MDC will be teaching kids the Michael Jackson Thriller Dance on the Nightmare on Chicago Street stage at Chicago & Douglas

1-4PM - Kids Costume Photo Booth at Ken Stepps' State Farm, 111 Douglas Avenue - get your kids photos taken in their Halloween finest

1-4PM - Psychosis Haunted House, 200 N. Spring Street, matinee, "kid-friendly" haunted house

2-3PM - Halloween Crafts & Music Activities in the basement of The Hemmens, presented by U-46

3:30PM - Elgin Symphony Orchestra's Spooktacular Concert at The Hemmens. Come in costume to hear some "boo"-tiful music. Tickets are $15 for adults, $10 for kids and available in person at the box office on the day of the concert or purchase tickets in advance at http://www.ElginSymphony.org

For a complete list of participating businesses in the Howl's Trick-or-Treating and a comprehensive schedule of Halloween weekend events in downtown Elgin, click here!

THEN...

NEWSFLASH! The Zombies have taken over and Elgin is the last line of defense! Join the Zombie Defense Initiative on from 6-11PM as the City of Elgin presents Nightmare on Chicago Street.

Chicago Street (between Douglas and Villa) will be closed for a Halloween music festival, with local bands, theater performances, a zombie walk, live burlesque show, a visit from Svengoolie and Victoria Price, granddaughter of legendary horror actor Vincent Price, a costume contest and specials from downtown businesses.

Admission is $7 at the gate with $5 discounted advanced tickets available at the DNA Office, 2 Douglas Avenue. Children under the age of 17 must be accompanied by an adult (age 21+).

6-7:30PM - Kashmir (Led Zeppelin tribute band)

8-9PM, 9:30-10:30PM - ARRA (classic rock tribute band)

9-9:30PM - Costume Contest with Svengoolie

9:30-11PM - Meet and Greet with Svengoolie

10:40-11PM - Burlesque Show by Dancewerks Dance Productions

For more information on the City of Elgin's Nightmare on Chicago Street event, visit http://www.NightmareonChicagoStreet.com

Dr. Torres to Speak at October Out to Lunch

The Downtown Neighborhood Association's final Out to Lunch of the 2011 season is Monday, October 24 at Elgin Public House, 219 E. Chicago Street in downtown Elgin. October's special guest speaker is Dr. Jose Torres, Superintendent, School District U-46.

Guests will enjoy networking between 11:45AM-12PM. The lunch portion of the program begins at Noon followed by Dr. Torres' presentation about his Destination 2015 plan around 12:30PM.

For $12 per person (all inclusive with tax & tip included - cash only) guests will be treated to a delicious lunch buffet of some EPH favorites as well as a choice of soft drinks or water.

RSVP with your name and e-mail address to the DNA by phone at 847-488-1456, by e-mail jpawlowski@elginil.org, or via our Online RSVP Form by no later than Friday, October 21.

The Out to Lunch Meetings, typically conducted on the fourth Monday of each month, are an effort to showcase a different downtown Elgin restaurant while engaging the public with guest speakers and topics relevant to the downtown community.

This year's Out to Lunch guest speakers have included City of Elgin Mayor David Kaptain, City Manager Sean Stegall, Police Chief Jeff Swoboda, Provena St. Joseph Hospital CEO Dr. Eugene McMahon, YWCA Elgin Special Events Coordinator Deirdre White, and Downtown Elgin Harvest Market Manager Jennifer Benson.

DNA Awards Gala Roaring '20s Trivia on WRMN-AM 1410

Think you know your 1920's Elgin trivia?

Beginning Monday, October 10 listen to WRMN-AM 1410 every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 7:20AM throughout October and early November for your DNA Awards Gala Roaring '20s Trivia Question of the Day.

After the question is read, be the first person to e-mail the correct answer to us at DowntownElgin@gmail.com for your chance to win Downtown Elgin Gift Certificates and other prizes from trivia question sponsors. Winners will be announced at 5:20PM each day on WRMN and on DNA's Facebook and Twitter pages.

Click to listen to the WRMN radio commercial >>>

On Thursday, November 17, the Downtown Neighborhood Association invites you to join us at the Grand Victoria Casino, 250 S. Grove Avenue, as we celebrate 1920's Elgin along with those who are working to make downtown a swell place to live, work and enjoy today!

Cocktails at 6PM (cash bar) followed by Dinner & Awards at 7PM. Roarin' entertainment provided by Janus Theatre.

Tickets are $65 per person ($55 for DNA members), Sponsored Tables of 8 are $560 ($485 for DNA Members). 1920's-inspired evening apparel encouraged. Prizes awarded for the snazziest dressed Sheiks and Shebas.

Don't be a wet blanket! Get your glad rags on, jump on the trolley and RSVP by November 4 to (847) 488-1456 or RSVP and pay securely online at DowntownElgin.com

Other sponsorship packages and marketing opportunities are also available. Contact DNA Promotions Coordinator Jason Pawlowski at jpawlowski@elginil.org for more information.

Special thanks to our 2011 Presenting Sponsors TranSystems and Grand Victoria Casino.